Michael D.Heath-Caldwell M.Arch.

Michael Heath-Caldwell M.Arch
Brisbane, Queensland
ph: 0412-78-70-74
alt: m_heath_caldwell@hotmail.com

1808

Diaries and Letters of:-

Hannah Stamford - aged 54/55 - sister of Elizabeth Caldwell

James Caldwell -aged 48/49 of Linley Wood Hall

Elizabeth Caldwell (ne Stamford) - aged 52/53 Wife of James Caldwell

Hannah Eliza Caldwell - aged 22/23 - first daughter of James and Elizabeth

James Stamford Caldwell - aged 21/22 - surviving son of James and Elizabeth

Mary Caldwell - aged 18/19 - second daughter of James and Elizabeth

Anne Marsh-Caldwell - 16/17 - third daughter of James and Elizabeth

Margaret Emma Caldwell - aged 15/16 - fourth daughter of James and Elizabeth

Catherine Louisa Caldwell - aged 13/14 - fifth daughter of James and Elizabeth

Ann Caldwell - aged 49/50 - sister of James Caldwell - unmarried

Elizabeth Caldwell (Bessy) - 41/42 - younger sister of James Caldwell - unmarried

Wedgewood Archives

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 48

January,

Friday 1^st January 1808:

Returned to Nantwich. Dined at Mr Skerretts Sir Thomas Broughton Mr Hill &c &c.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

1808
Mr Fox's life of James 2 and reign. Mr Fox is rather too fond of high colouring and by this means biasing his readers, and I cannot think that his mode of rendering his characters more interesting by saying that perhaps they were actuated by such and such motives or thought so and so, motives and thoughts which perhaps never entered into any body's head but Mr Fox's is allowable in an impartial history. Of the style I say nothing as I cannot consider it in the light of work prepared for the [press, mass?] I think there are traces of a good heart to be seen in it.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 48

Saturday 2 January 1808:

at Do

Sunday 3 January 1808:

Monday 4 January 1808:

Tuesday 5 January 1808:

Wednesday 6 January 1808:

Do. Mr Bent dined at Mr Skerretts

Thursday 7 January 1808:

Returned to Linley Wood

Friday 8 January 1808:

At home

Saturday 9 January 1808:

At Madeley attending Militia Meeting

Sunday 10 January 1808:

At Nantwich in consequence of the illness of my sister who we found in a most dangerous state.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Sunday 10th January 1808,
Papa and Mamma went to Nantwich. My Aunt Anne dangerously ill.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 48

Monday 11 January 1808:

Returned to Linley Wood leaving Eliza at Nantwich.

Tuesday 12 January 1808:

At Trentham Inn attending Militia Meeting

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Tuesday 12th January 1808,

Anne and Eliza went to a ball at Mrs Bates's. I was prevented by a bad toothache.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 48

Wednesday 13 to Tuesday 19 January 1808:

[dates listed but no entry]

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Thursday 14th January 1808,
My Aunt Ann much worse.

My Aunt and Eliza went to Nantwich. I was convinced that bodily pain blunts the anguish that one suffers at the distresses of others when one is at a distance from the object.

Letter to Mrs Elizabeth Caldwell from her husband, James Caldwell

Mrs Caldwell

Miss Caldwell
Nantwich

Linley Wood

Monday one o’clock

17^th January 1808.

My ever dear Eliza,

It is a great mortification and disappointment to me not to be able to come to Nantwich today, but being obliged, from the extreme roughness and slipperiness of the roads, to walk a good deal yesterday, and having been detained longer at Newcastle than I expected, I felt so much fatigued that I thought it better to take my breakfast in bed this morning particularly as I have engaged to set off with Mr Bent to Liverpool on Wednesday morning, and you know, I must be at Newcastle the greatest part of the day tomorrow.

Having been writing now since I got up, the time has insinnably[?] slipped away, and on looking at my watch, I find that it will now be impossible for me to get it answered in time for Mr Jos Garnett’s dinner, of which I should on every account have been most particularly happy to have partaken; and of this be so good as to assure him from me. I find all our dear girls well and rendered happy beyond expression, as you may well suppose, by the account I brought of their tenderly beloved Aunt.

Mary seems better in every way, and in good spirits. The servants seem all to have behaved extremely well, and to have shewn the utmost attention. The four male servants waited regularly every day at table; which I suppose must have been rather amusing to all the party, and particularly I believe to Mr Charles.

I thought it best to open the inclosed letter from Mrs Crompton, not knowing whether it might not contain some intelligence that it might be proper for me to be acquainted with. If your sister and Eliza do not bring the most favourable account of your very dear Patient, I will at all events come to Nantwich this evening. Express to her from me every thing that is most tender, sympathizing, and affectionate; not forgetting too our dear Bessy who if possible possesses a higher place than ever in my affection and esteem. And, would to God, my more than ever loved and valued wife, that I could find terms in which I could convey to you but a faint idea of the tender fervent, and grateful affection with which my heart at this moment throbs at the thought of you. Every fresh occasion, seems only to afford a fresh opportunity for evincing that high and solid [merrit?] which while it commands my admiration, my respect and my esteem, nourishes the warmest flame of love and pleasure, and will ever preserve it, in unabating ardour.

I hope and trust that our dear Ann’s recovery will proceed so as to admit of you meeting me at Linley Wood on Sunday evening, which will be as early as I shall be able to get back; as we propose stopping at Macclesfield on our return, and getting that business done.

I hope that our dear boy will be of the party, and that it will to us all afford the best and purest joy on earth, unmixed domestic love and happiness. Be so good as to say everything that is kind from me to Mr Atkinson, and assure him that it is a most real disappointment to me not to be able to see him; but the circumstances under which I am placed will I trust sufficiently account for it.

The chaise is just arrived, and the account it brings has indeed made me more completely happy. You must not blame your daughter for disobedience of [boredom?] about the birds. I have insisted on the Snipes going, which I hope you and Bessy will agree about the division of, and to make all things straight, we have kept the Partridges at Linley Wood.

God bless you! My dear wife. Take care of yourself; for on you more than on all the world besides depends the earthly happiness of your ever most tenderly affectionate and grateful husband and friends.

James Caldwell

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Monday 18th January 1808,
My Aunt and I returned, my Aunt A much better.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 48

Wednesday 20 January 1808:

Set off to Liverpool Mr & R Bent & self.

Thursday 21 January 1808:

Engaged looking over Brewery & meeting with Mr Meek. Returned to Knutsford

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Thursday 21st January 1808,
My Aunt, Emma and Eliza went to Maer.

Diary of James Caldwell

Friday 22 January 1808:

At Macclesfield setting annual Acct.

Saturday 23 January 1808:

Do. Do. Returned home at night

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Saturday 23rd January 1808
Went to N(antwich) to fetch my Mamma home.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 24 January 1808:

At Nantwich. Sister still in a precarious state Returned on the Evening with Eliza. Stamford returned from Cambridge.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

24th January 1808, Sunday
All the family met to receive JSC from Cambridge where he has taken his degree as Sen February Optine.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 25 January 1808:

At Newcastle attending Militia Meeting. Also Meeting of the Potters previous to Mr Warburton going to London with the Memorial. dined at Mr T Sparrows.

Tuesday 26 January 1808:

At home having been prevented by various Circumstances & Engagements from accompanying Sr. Jno Heathcote & Mr Bent to Shrewsbury.

Page 408

Wednesday 27 January 1808:

At home. Engaged on various matters particularly preparing statement of the Evidence which I should be enabled to give before the Committee of the House of Commons relative to the Newcastle Election & which I had been requested to do by Mr Macdonald.

Thursday 28 January 1808:

At Newcastle. Engaged at Mr Fentons comparing Statement of Evidence with Books Minutes &c. & afterwards dined. Poole, Sparrow, Sneyd, Bagshaw J S Co

Friday 29 January 1808:

At Trentham Inn attending Appeals under Assessed Taxes Sr. Jno Chetwode & self. From thence to Stone attending Meeting of Select Committee. Engaged late

Saturday 30 January 1808:

Do. Returned in the Evening

Sunday 31 January 1808:

At Stoneyfields to dinner. Meeting Mr Meek of Liverpool and negotiating further for purchase of Liverpool Brewery; but further enquiries being necessary Mr Meek promised to write & give us an answer by post on Thursday next.

February, [1808]

Monday 1^st February 1808:

At Do. engaged on Do. & afterwards on the Election & Navign. business.

Wedgwood Archive

12-2261

1 February 1808

Bill of Sale for some Wood & Caldwell tableware to Wedgwood & Byerley. £0:18:0

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 2 February 1808:

At home. Writing Letters to Mr Bootle & Mr Macdonald &c. &c. Afterwards at Burslem with Eliza where a Letter overtook us with an Account of my Sisters having again had a Relapse and requesting our presence. Returned immediately & set off to N. E & self but found her better than we had expected.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Teusday 2nd February 1808, Tuesday
Mr Bent and Mr Fenton called. Papa and Mama went to Nantwich.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 3 February 1808:

Returned home leaving Eliza at N.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Wednesday 3rd February 1808
Papa returned home.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 4 February 1808:

At home. Engaged settling annual Accounts &c. &c.

Friday 5 February 1808:

Do. Engaged on the farm & various matters.

Saturday 6 February 1808:

At Alsager attending Meeting of Trustees relative to the Election of a School Master in the room of Mr Babington decd. Mr Hinchliffe Mr Rowley & self. Lord Crewe being unexpectedly prevented from attending. In the Evening much indisposed with a Cold.

Sunday 7 February 1808:

Being unwell. In bed greatest part of the day.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Sunday 7th February 1808,
Mamma returned M home.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 8 February 1808:

Mr Tomlinson & Mr Fenton relative to Recovery intended to be suffered of . . .[?chattels] belonging to Thos . . .[Berads] Esqr. late in Mortgage to Mrs Bentley & in which it was thought proper for Mrs C & I to join perusing Drafts &c. & signing the requisite Documents. Afterwards at Newcastle attending in Reference Turner & Chell. Returned to dinner but very unwell. Alcock.

Tuesday 9 February 1808:

At home. Still unwell & in bed a considerable part of the day.

Wednesday 10 February 1808:

Do.

Thursday 11 February 1808:

Do. prevented going to Newcastle Assembly. In the Evening so heavy a fall of Snow that the Company could not get from the Shakespeare & about 20 persons sat up all night.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Thursday 11th February 1808,
JSC and El went to Basford. Mamma, my Aunt, Anne and I went to the Assembly. A most dreadful snow obliged us and Basford party &c to sit up there all night. It was a very new scene but it is very amusing to see such a one once in ones life. Captain Bent who returned home on Saturday after an absence of five years was there.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 12 February 1808:

Elizth Eliza Mary Ann & Miss Stamford returned at noon. So much Snow lay on the road to the farm (being upwards of 3 feet deep) that a road could not be cut through, & with difficulty one was made over the high ground & the meadow of the farm yard having a dozen or 15 people at work all the morning.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Saturday12th February 1808,
We all breakfasted at Stoneyfields and with some difficulty got home to dinner.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 13 February 1808

At Newcastle with Mr Bent relative to Mr Giles, Liverpool Brewery &c. Returned to dinner but much snow. This & the preceding night lost two lambs which I suppose to have been taken by a fox one having been seen about.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Sunday 13th February 1808,
JSC and El came home.Mr Bough aiderant Mr Fletcher was married to Miss Chetwood on Tuesday 9th.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 14 February 1808:

At home. Extremely cold & severe.

Monday 15 February 1808:

Do. The weather which had been very cold at night began to change about eleven oClock this morning & a fine mild thaw succeeded. On looking over my flock of Sheep I found I had this morning in the whole 10 lambs. Two or three of which had been yeaned [to bring forth i.e. born] 10 days. All the Sheep healthy & well though they had had no Turnips through the severe weather & nothing but a very little Hay provided for them & of which they had eat scarcely any at all. Alcock.

Tuesday 16 February 1808:

At Newcastle attending Militia Ballot. Returned to dinner. Messrs. Sneyd & Sparrow T Fenton Poole & Bagshaw dined.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Tuesday 16th February 1808,
A party of Newcastle gentlemen "Il est bien plus important pour les femmes de flatter notre vanite que de toucher notre Coeur" dit Mr de. --. J'y conviens. JSC, JB.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

[Not dated but should be Wednesday 17:]

At Newcastle again to consider & determine upon the purchase of Liverpool Brewery; when it was resolved that Mr R Bent & I should set off tomorrow Morning for the purpose of endeavouring to treat with Mr Meek, & if it could be done in fair terms to purchase. Mr Bent came to dinner.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Wednesday 17th February 1808,
Mr Bent dined and stayed all night. [page B55]

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 18 February 1808:

Set off for Liverpool & arrived there about 5oClock in the Evening engaged with Mr Dennison previous to meeting Mr Meeke in the Morning.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Thursday 18th February 1808,
Papa and Mr Bent went to Eton. JSC dined at Mr Butts, stayed all night and met my Aunt.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 19 February 1808:

Engaged with Mr Meeke all day when I finally agreed for the purchase. Afterwards at Eton where we slept.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Friday 19th February 1808,
Eliza and I at Darlaston. The Smiths were there and Mr Ricketts.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 20 February 1808:

Engaged drawing up Agreement which being fully approved by Mr Eden Mr Meekes Attorney the same was signed by the Parties. returned to Eton in the Evening after having accomplished this important business which had been attended with much trouble & anxiety.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Saturday 20th February 1808,
Took a very pleasant walk in the shrubbery.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 21 February 1808:

Returned home to dinner, found Mr Bent Jas, Bent & Mr Wood, all of whom dined. Mr Jos. Wedgwood had been here relative to the disputes between the . . .[Parish] of Stone & various others with the Navig. Co. about to be agitated in Parliament but which it was thought by my Interference might be settled. Mr Wood all night.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Sunday 21st February 1808,
JSC (Stamford) left us. Went to Church and heard a most superbly fine sermon from Mr Smith.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 22 February 1808:

At Newcastle meeting Mr Jos. Wedgwood when I finally agreed to meet a delegation of not more than two Gentlemen on Thursday, if there was a real disposition towards fair & candid . . .[hea..dation]. Engaged on the business Turner & Chell when I finally advised the Umpire Mr Jardin to proceed no further. Dined at Mr Bents Dr. & R Bent.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

22nd February 1808, Monday
Returned home, found Captain Bent and Mr Fenton at Linley Wood. Some pleasant chat and nonsense.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 23 February 1808:

At home but very unwell. Engaged settling Navigation papers intended to be printed, but which had been sent by Mr Sparrow for my previous perusal & Correction.

[JC makes one of his frequent errors in day/date for the next 3 entries. The days run through but the dates have been overwritten, 26th missed out altogether. He has also crossed out two entries and rewritten one on a different day. I believe what I have rendered below to be correct but it is not clear which entry is for Wed. 24th.]

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Tuesday 23rd February 1808,
Captain Bent and Mr Fenton left us. My Uncle came.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 24 February 1808:

Mr Skerrett came to dinner. Mr Fourchiquour (French teacher)

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Wednesday 24th February 1808,
Pas les gens sensibles qui n'ont point encore passionement aime on tune idée vague de l'object inconnue on meme imaginair qui pourait les sechire on les attacher notre maniere de voir de sentin et de figer forme en nous ce gou particular que determine et fixe nos oires affections non su letre le plus parfait mais sui celui que la nature semble avoir cree pour nous plaire la du tele la adhere [?]
French transcription continues page B56

The writing of Madame Cottin has a great deal of the countenance is called expression. It implies not exactly strong sensations, strongly sign-but nice and sensitive perception on every occasion, however common and looks that speakingly reflects them a mind quickly seeing as quickly seen, a clear but actless indication of emotions natural but not vulgar. The one sex the forensic to the other the domestic occupation and before so obvious a difference of destination can be overlooked not only must all right principles and feelings be abandoned but the essence of things must be almost changed. Till this crisis occurs women will be the tutelary powers of domestic and social enjoyment and so long they will retain their present agreements. To embellish their minds therefore with an ample furniture of knowledge would only confer on them the means of decorating with additional effect their proper sphere for the muses can never of themselves be at war with the graces or the virtues.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 25 February 1808:

Engaged with Mr Skerrett at Newcastle . . . with . . . . . . various matters

Friday 26 February 1808:

Mr Skerrett left Linley Engaged on papers for journey & business on the Newcastle Election Committee

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Friday 26th February 1808,
My Uncle and my Aunt went to Nantwich.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 27 February 1808:

Set off this morning to London with Mr Tho Sparrow. Arrived at Coventry.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Saturday 27th February 1808,
Papa set out for town [London] about the petition

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 28 February 1808:

To Barnet

Monday 29 February 1808:

London. Took my abode at the Bedford Cov. Garden

March, [1808]

Tuesday 1^st March 1808:

Attending when committee balloted. Party dined at Bedford

Wednesday 2 March 1808:

Attending Committee

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

3rd March 1808, Thursday
Mamma, JSC, Anne and I went to Maer. Met Mrs J Wedgwood, very fine.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 4 March 1808:

Do.

Friday 4 March 1808:

Letter from James Caldwell, to his wife Elizabeth Caldwell

Mrs Caldwell

Linley Wood

Lawton

Cheshire

Bedford Coffee House

Friday 4^th March 1808

My ever dear Eliza,

On my return home from the House of Commons I have this morning received your letter which could never have come at a better season, as this is the third day that I have been dancing attendance in the Lobby from ten o’clock in the morning till three in the afternoon.

I was amused at finding written in pencil on one of the Pillars “Another Misery of Human Life – Obliged to dance attendance in this Lobby for ten days waiting upon an Election Committee.” Mr Fletcher’s Counsel finished their Case today, and I trust that tomorrow I shall get unburthened of a lot I have to say. The whole question is reduced to the single point of the Opinion which I gave to the Returning Officers to close the Poll; so that you see I must stand the [Rub?] to the Cash.

I would not have anything said about it, but it will be I know a great satisfaction to you to know that I have reason and hope that there is no doubt of the result. Indeed every lawyer I believe agrees that I was right. My decision was important, as it will set a precedent in future in all Elections. But to have done with this hateful subject. It will be a much greater satisfaction to you my beloved wife, to know that although not perfectly stout[?], I feel nothing materially amiss and that I am upon the whole considerably better than when I left home.

It is merely to say this that I write a line by this night’s Post for as to any attempt to caress the emotions of tender and grateful affection all which your kind, soothing and animating expressions fill my heart, that would be now impossible. I will endeavour to believe that your union with me has been a source of the happiness which you describe, for of all reflections that will ever be to me the dearest and most delightful.

I have seen nobody since I came to Town. I had an invitation to dine at Mr Macdonalds at [hole in letter due to wax seal] and at Mr Boothes today, both of which I declined, preferring the quiet evening of a solitary room in an Coffee house to going into any company till our business is finished.

Dr Crompton left London before I arrived. I think the decision a hard one upon the individual; but very well as a check upon the needless protraction of contested elections; by withholding voters unnecessarily and only to open at time[?] Pray let me know in your next whether be any little thing that will be acceptable to you or any my very dear girls. I forget to mention this to you before I left home I know to what to turn my thoughts? Pray give me a hint.

I have not yet called upon Stodhart, and leave you with which I trust will be by the first opportunity said on the direction of Mr Cooper. I am pretty sure I met Mr Gaskell twice in the Lobby but as he did not seem to recognize me, I took no notice.

I can say nothing at present of any Returns; but trust it cannot now be long. Lord Stafford’s Gallery will be opened purposely on account of his [Staffordin?].

Remember me in the tenderest manner to my dear Stamford and his dear sisters and ever think of me as your tenderly affectionate and grateful husband.

James Caldwell

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 5 March 1808:

Do. When I went through my examination before the Committee. I had the satisfaction to be informed that Mr . . . . . .[Sert. Lens] Counsel for Mr Fletcher in making his final observations to the Committee said that he wished me to be informed from him that I had given my Evidence in a fair Liberal & truly . . .[&ldots;.able] manner

Diary of Mary Caldwell - Linley Wood - aged 18

5th March 1808, Saturday
Returned home. GP. Very hot.

Diary of James Caldwell - London

Sunday 6 March 1808:

Dined at Peaches

Monday 7 March 1808:

Unwell unable to attend at the Committee Room. Committee determined in fav. of sitting Members.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - Linley Wood - aged 18

7th March 1808, Monday
The two girls, Captain Bent and CP and Mr P came.

Diary of James Caldwell - London

Tuesday 8 March 1808:

Viewing Lord Staffords Gallery of pictures which he had been so kind as to open privately for the inspection of his Staffordshire friends. Kind & polite Reception by Lord & Lady Stafford & Lord Gower. Highly gratified with the morning. Long & very . . . & confidential private Conversation with Lady Stafford

relative to the Election Fletcher &c. &c.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - Linley Wood - aged 18

8th March 1808, Tuesday
Mr R Griffin joined us, danced.

Diary of James Caldwell - London

Wednesday 9 March 1808:

Called at Mr Barths & Mr Macdonalds

Letter from James Caldwell to Mrs Caldwell, Linley Wood from London, March 1808

Mrs Caldwell

Linley Wood

Lawton

Cheshire

Bedford Hotel

9^th March 1808

Though our main business is over, my beloved Eliza, yet I have had such a number of things relating to the Navigation &c to attend to today, that I have almost suffered the time for the Post to elapse before I could sit down to write but if it be only a line it will be sufficient just to let you know that I am much better than when I wrote last and trust that I shall once more enjoy the heartful and blessing and delight of rejoining my tenderly beloved family on Sunday night.This however will in some degree depend upon a letter which I expected to receive today and conclude that I shall certainly receive tomorrow from Mr Sparrow of [Brighton?]

The morning of yesterday was spent in viewing the north Gallery of Pictures at Lord Staffords. Both Lord and Lady Stafford received us themselves, nor could anything be more kind and obliging than their manner. Lady Stafford made repeated enquiries about you and all at Linley Wood and was indeed extremely obliging. She took me into her private room where I had the pleasure to sit with her some time. Of the pictures it is impossible to speak in any adequate terms and my observations must be reserved till we meet.

Tell your daughters that I have this morning settled with Mr [Hodhart, Stodhart?] about a Pianoforte which he had himself selected and which appears to me to be of very superior tone and excellence. Mr Wedgwood having also called this morning I mentioned the subject and he very obligingly said that he would get a Lady of his acquaintance, a very finished performer to call and try the touch.

I have also called at Mrs Newhams and Mr Salmon’s. The former I found complaining but to appearance full as well as could be expected. The latter said he had written to Mr [Yates?] and that the business will be fully made out [hole in letter] at Lady Day. And so much for business.

Thank you my ever dear Eliza for the letter which I received this morning and which like every one that I receive from you operated like a [cordial?] to my heart. Distrust not the power you [‘have’ crossed out] possess to keep alive in breast the warmest and the steadiest flame of that of the tenderest passion, confirmed by the best exercise of judgment, and more than twenty years of dear and happy recollections can confirm. You are indeed, Eliza, the friend and partner of my very soul, now so intimately interwoven with every thing that renders life happy and desirable, that the thought even of existence without you is insupportable.

But away with all the glooms. I trust we shall soon again meet not hastily to be parted. The Post Bell rings. Farewell. Distribute amongst our dear children all the tender love and affection that a father’s heart can feel, and ever think of me as your own most tenderly affectionate and grateful husband,

J Caldwell.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - Linley Wood - aged 18

Wednesday 9th March 1808,
Had music in the evening. JB agreeable.

Diary of James Caldwell - London

Thursday 10 March 1808

Do. Mr Boughey.

Dairy of Mary Caldwell - Linley Wood - aged 18

10th March 1808, Thursday
Danced in the evening. A pleasant walk.

Diary of James Caldwell - London

Friday 11 March 1808:

Engaged packing &c. previous to leaving London

Diary of Mary Caldwell - Linley Wood - aged 18

Friday 11th March 1808,
The Powys's and Mr R G left us. Mr Bent came to dinner. Music in high spirits, all very very agreeable.

Diary of James Caldwell - London

Saturday 12 March 1808:

Set off with Mr T Sparrow from London in a postchaise about ½ past ten o'Clock arrived at Dunchurch that night.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18 - Linley Wood - aged 18

12th March 1808, Saturday
Mr Butt dined, had a walk, music.

Diary of James Caldwell - Linley Wood

Sunday 13 March 1808:

Once more arrived in this Mansion of peace happiness & rest but much fatigued.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

13th March 1808, Sunday
They all left us. Walked with them and returned. In the evening at Nantwich [?] I never passed so pleasant a week or was altogether so happy and enjoyed the company of my friends so much. Papa returned.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 14 March 1808:

At home. Unwell

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 18

Monday 14th March 1808,
Papa returned.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 15 March 1808:

Do. Mr Fourchiquour

Wednesday 16 March 1808:

Do. Engaged in arranging papers &c.

Thursday 17 March 1808

Do. Do.

Friday 18 March 1808:

Do. Do.

Saturday 19 March 1808:

At Burnham

Sunday 20 March 1808:

At home. Mr & R Bent dined. Liverpool Brewery &c.

Monday 21 March 1808:

At home. Alcock. Unwell & confined to the House

Tuesday 22 March 1808:

Do. Drawing Draft of Articles relative to Liverpool Brewery

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

22nd March 1808, Tuesday
My birthday [she turned 19]
Eliza, JSC and I went to Wenstwood, met the Bents and Mr Butt.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 23 March 1808:

Do. Mr & Miss Percival came to dinner

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

23rd March 1808, Wednesday
Took a long walk and danced in the evening.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 24 March 1808:

Do Unwell

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

24th March 1808, Thursday
Returned home to meet Mr and Miss Percival. Felt much mortified at leaving my friends and spoil a week which promised to be equally pleasant with the one had before passed with them.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 25 March 1808:

Saturday 26 March 1808:

Do.

Sunday 27 March 1808:

Do. Mr Armistead relative to Mrs Tolletts Affairs & who staid all night

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

27th March 1808, Sunday
Mr Armistead dined and stayed all night.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 28 March 1808:

Do. Messrs. Wedgwood Mr Bart & Capt. Bart dined In the Evening Mr Atkinson

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

28th March 1808, Monday
Miss Wedgwoods, Mr Butt and Captain Bent dined, a very happy day, had a great deal of confab and c. Captain Bent did not stay [at night?]

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 29 March 1808:

Do. Letter writing to sundry persons. Mr & Miss Percival left us.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

29th March 1808, Tuesday
Mr and Miss Percival left us. Very sorry to part with them. Miss W &c went.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 30 March 1808:

Do. Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

30th March 1808, Wednesday
Mamma and Eliza and my Aunt called at Betley. The new piano forte arrived. As long as one fears death yet loves life one can be sure one is not completely miserable. EC. On peut etre quelque fois plus fort ou plus heureux que ses enemies mais qu'il est grande d'etre plus fort que soi meme. Les ordres les plus surement accomplish sont ceux que l'amour execute -Mapilon.[page B60]

French transcription continues - Corinne.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 31 March 1808:

Do. Prevented attending at the Assizes being unwell but rode to Alsager Lodge to meet Mr Hinchliffe Mr Wilbraham &c. & making Appointment of the Revd. Mr Richardson to the Curacy of School

April, [1808]

Friday 1^st April 1808:

At home. Engaged drawing Articles for Liverpool Brewery

Saturday 2 April 1808:

At Burslem

Sunday 3 April 1808:

At home. Mr & R Bent dined. Perusing Draft

of Articles &c. &c.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

3rd April 1808, Sunday
Mr Bent and Mr R Bent dined. Mr B grave and -.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 4 April 1808:

At home.

Tuesday 5 April 1808:

At Stone attending Select Committee but neither Mr Sparrow nor Mr Webb attended. Mr Simpson & self. Returned at night.

Wednesday 6 April 1808:

At Mr Wilbrahams Rode hall to dinner. General & Mrs Broughton Mr & Mrs Hinchliffe Mr & Miss Stanley.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

6th April 1808, Wednesday
My Aunt, EC and I set out for Halifax. Slept at Rochdale.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 7 April 1808:

At Newcastle to have met Mr Beckett to have finished business relating to the property on the Marsh but Mr Martin had postponed the business. On my return called on Mr Sneyd. Bradwall on account of his Accident

Diary of Mary Caldwell - at Halifax aged 19

7th April 1808, Thursday
Went through the vale of Todmorden to H. We arrived at Morley Green, Mrs Ralphs about a mile from Halifax to dinner.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 8 April 1808:

At home. Mr Wood came to dinner & staid all night.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - at Halifax aged 19

8th April 1808, Friday
Mr Ralph who lives with Mr Rhodes at M [H?] called.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 9 April 1808:

Do. Mr Peter Bayley dined. In the Evening went to Nantwich

Diary of Mary Caldwell - at Halifax aged 19

9th April 1808, Saturday
Dr Thompson and Mr Ralph drank tea and supped.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 10 April 1808:

Returned at night from Nantwich

Diary of Mary Caldwell - at Halifax aged 19

10th April 1808, Sunday
Took a walk with Dr Thompson and Mr Ralph to the Spa.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 11 April 1808:

At home. Engaged on various matters & on Navign. papers previous to meeting Mr Jno. Martin at Burslem tomorrow to fix the payment to be made by the Company per day for working the Cockshead Engine.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - at Halifax aged 19

11th April 1808, Monday
Went to a lecture upon Chymistry.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 12 April 1808:

At Burslem meeting Martin when I finally settled this long protracted Business & which for a great length of time past had been the subject of much trouble & vexation to all the parties. Daily payment when Engine at work £5.5s

Wednesday 13 April 1808:

At home.

Thursday 14 April 1808:

In the Morning Mr R Bent relative to Liverpool Brewery. Afterwards at Burslem. Delivered to Mr Wood Conveyance of Land in Burslem from the Assigns of Ralph Wedgwood to J Caldwell in order that the same might be sent to London to be executed by R Wedgwood.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - at Halifax aged 19

14th April 1808, Thursday
Mr Ralph dined. EC and I took along walk with Mr Ralph after dinner.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 15 April 1808:

At Do. Engaged with Mr Wood on various matters relating to the Colliery &c. Returned in the Evening.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - at Halifax aged 19

15th April 1808, Friday
A party, Mr and Mrs Rhodes, Mrs W Rawson, Miss Dawson, Mr M stayed

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Page 414

Saturday 16 April 1808:

At home.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - at Halifax aged 19

16th April 1808, Saturday
Snow, music. Mr M.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 17 April 1808:

At Stoneyfields & Basford

Diary of Mary Caldwell - at Halifax aged 19

17th April 1808, Sunday
Deep snow, could not go out.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 18 April 1808:

At Stone. Select Committee

Tuesday 19 April 1808:

Do. General Committee

Diary of Mary Caldwell - at Halifax aged 19

19th April 1808, Tuesday
Dined at Mr Rhodes, Mr R. did not go Sophia

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 20 April 1808:

Do. General Assembly. Returned in the Evening to Linley Wood.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - at Halifax aged 19

20th April 1808, Wednesday
My Aunt and Mr R and I took a long walk, they went to the lecture upon chymistry.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 21 April 1808:

Set off with Sr. Jno Heathcote & Mr Bent to Shrewsbury

Friday 22 April 1808:

Engaged closely with the Books settling the same & the annual Statement of the Concern

Saturday 23 April 1808:

Do. in the morning. Returned to Stoneyfields slept there

Sunday 24 April 1808:

Returned home fatigued & unwell from the weeks exertion

Diary of Mary Caldwell - at Halifax aged 19

24th April 1808, Sunday [page B63]
Went to the Chapel, took a walk to see the vale of Elland, dined at Mr Rhodes's. Mr Ralph as usual, why he came up with us, stayed all night. When young pray pray till you are sure you are heard from the fervency with which you speak.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 25 April 1808:

At home

Tuesday 26 April 1808:

At Newcastle on various matters. In the Evening received Abstracts of Title to Brewery at Liverpool. Mr Fourchiquour

Wednesday 27 April 1808:

At Newcastle again with Abstracts of Title & explaining the same to Messrs W & R Bent. Dined at Stoneyfields when it was determined that I shd. write to Mr Lace[?Luce] to state various observations on the Title &c.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - at Halifax aged 19

27th April 1808, Wednesday
J called. We went with him to see Mr Edward's library, fine books.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 28 April 1808:

Engaged writing long letter to Mr Luce and afterwards at Newcastle shewing(sic) the same to Mr Bent previous to sending it away

Diary of Mary Caldwell - at Halifax aged 19

28th April 1808, Thursday
Walked to see the church and hear the organ and to see the [Aild? Niece?] Hall with Dr J and Mr Ralph. Dined at Mr Rhodes'.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 29 April 1808:

At home.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19, at Halifax

29th April 1808, Friday
Took a long walk by the Belvedere.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 30 April 1808:

At Newcastle meeting Mr Jno. Beckett & to have finished the business relative to the Marsh buildings but the matter was postponed.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

30th April 1808, Saturday
Returned home. I was very sorry to part with my friends at M [Maer] where I spent a very happy three weeks though very still and retired.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

May, [1808]

Sunday 1^st May 1808:

At home.

Monday 2 May 1808:

At Burslem

Tuesday 3 May 1808:

Mr Skerrett came to Linley Wood also Mr Wood & Enoch Mr Edburton relative to Sr. Tho Broughtons purchase of the Salt Works &c all dined.

Wednesday 4 May 1808:

Engaged with Mr Skerrett & Mr Wood

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

4th May 1808, Wednesday
A dance at Basford, very pleasant and very hot. Powys's, Heathcote's, Robinsons', Woodhouses, Mrs Butt, Griffin &c. Danced till six and returned home. My Uncle came on Monday.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 5 May 1808:

At Burslem with Mr Skerrett

Friday 6 May 1808:

Mr Skerrett left us but previously Mr W Penlington came with . . . settled future Application of the Rents of the Estates of which £100 per annum to be applied in liquidation of Arrears of Interest. Afterwards at Newcastle on various matters, Cut Asparagus

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

6th May 1808, Friday [page B64]
Called at Maer, Eliza, JSC and I went to Basford, E and CP there.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 7 May 1808:

At home. Writing Letter to P Houghton to accompany Manuscripts intended for Publication. Observations &c.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

7th May 1808, Saturday
Mr [CP?] went. Danced grand Myth.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 8 May 1808:

At home.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

8th May 1808, Sunday
Went to Church.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 9 May 1808:

Sent by Coach from Gibbons's Manuscripts to Houghton. At Newcastle on various matters. Purchased a brown Colt to match Pilot.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

9th May 1808, Monday
Went to see the Cotton Mill. The men went to dine and stay all night at Mr Butts.

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 10 May 1808:

At home. Engaged on the farm. Mr Fourchiquour

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

10th May 1808, Tuesday
Returned home, very fine day.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 11 May 1808:

Do. Do.

Thursday 12 May 1808:

At Trentham Inn Meeting under Assessed Taxes & property tax. Mr Mainwaring & self a very long & fatiguing day almost the whole of the business falling upon myself. Returned late to dinner.

Friday 13 May 1808:

At home.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

13th May 1808, Friday
A dance at Darleston, had one markably pleasant dance. Went to dinner and stayed all night.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 14 May 1808:

Do. Engaged on the Farm &c. &c.

Sunday 15 May 1808:

Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

15th May 1808, Sunday
Very hot, did not go to Church.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 16 May 1808:

At Alsager attending Meeting of Trustees of Alsager Church & School

Tuesday 17 May 1808:

At home. Turned out the Milking Cows into the Lawn field.

Wednesday 18 May 1808:

At Burslem. Afterwards Engaged on the farm. Sheep shearing. Finished setting potatoes

Thursday 19 May 1808:

At Burslem

Friday 20 May 1808:

Do. Mr Wood & Enoch & Mr Thomas Wedgwood dined.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

20th May 1808, Friday
Mr Wood dined here.

Il faut pour que l'ordre social se montrent dans toute leur beaute que l'homme soit le protecture et la femme portgegee, mais que ce protecteur adore la faiblesse qu'il defens et respect la divinite sans peuvoir qui, comme ses dieux pen ates, parte Bonheur a sa maison. Corinne.

La puissance des pleurs trop souvent exerce - French transcription continues B65 - 66 - 67 - 68 - La Duchesse du Valiere.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 21 May 1808:

At home. Engaged on the farm & various matters

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

21st May 1808, Saturday
Mr J Bent and Miss Bent dined at Linley Wood and returned home at night.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 22 May 1808:

At Stoneyfields. Elizabeth & Self & Stamford dining Mr & Mrs W Hindley.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

22nd May 1808, Sunday
Papa, Mamma and JSC dined at Stony Fields.

Friendship immediately banishes envy under all its disguises. A man who can doubt whether he should rejoice in his friends being happier than himself is incapable of this virtue - Spectator.

C'est un vif chagrin que dene plus voir les lieux ou l'on a passé son enfance les souvenirs de cet age, par une chaime partrouliers adoroissent l'idee de la mort - Corinne.

French transcriptions continue page B70 - B71 - Bellegard. Corinne. Ibid.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 23 May 1808:

At Newcastle. Executing Articles of Partnership Macclesfield Brewery.

Tuesday 24 May 1808:

At Betley dining at Sir Thomas Fletchers. Bayleys & Mr Sneyds.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

24th May 1808, Tuesday
Mamma, Papa, my Aunt Eliza and JSC dined at Betley, Sir J Fletchers. Cold and wet.

Oh Woman! In our hours of ease
Uncertain, coy, and hard to please
And variable as the shade
By the light quivering aspen made
When pain and anguish running the brow
A ministering Angel thou!
Marmion by Scott.

Oh what a tangled web we weave
When first we practice to deceive.
Ibid.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 25 May 1808:

At home. Engaged on farm

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

25th May 1808, Wednesday
JSC dined at Etruria.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 26 May 1808:

Do. Mr N Heathcote Miss Allens & Mr & Mrs Wedgwood

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

26th May 1808, Thursday
Mr, Mrs John Wedgwood, two Miss Allens, Miss S.W. and Mr Nigel Heathcote came to Linley Wood.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 27 May 1808:

Do. Engaged perusing & . . . papers received from Liverpool relative to the Title to the Brewery.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

27th May 1808, Friday
We walked in the morning, played at [Zoo, Two?] after tea and had music after supper. I like Miss A's very much. They have a great deal of good humour and much of the frank open heartedness of Miss Allen and their elder sisters.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 28 May 1808:

Do. Party left us.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

28th May 1808, Saturday
They all left us.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 29 May 1808:

Do. Mr & Mrs W Hindley & Mr & Mrs Bent & R Bent at Linley Wood

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

29th May 1808, Sunday
Mr and Mrs W Bent, Mr and Mrs Hindley and Mr Bux [Buxton?] dined at Linley Wood. Mr and Mrs H stayed all night.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 30 May 1808:

Do. Engaged with Mr Hindley who with Mrs H left us in the Evening

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

30th May 1808, Monday
Mr and Mrs Hindley left us after dinner.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 31 May 1808:

At Newcastle attending Meeting of Trustees of Newcastle & finally settling Account of purchase monies &c. Afterwards settling with Mr Jno Smith payment to be made for the duties on Mrs Newhams & Mary Hills Annuities under the Will of Mrs Bentley & Miss Stamford. Afterwards dined at Noahs Ark Bowling green meeting & returned with R Bent.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

31st May 1808, Tuesday
Mr Bent came.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

June, [1808]

Wednesday 1^st June 1808:

Set off with R Bent to Eton finally to settle respecting the Title to the Brewery & arrived in the Evening

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

1st June 1808, Wednesday
Papa and Mr Bent went to Liverpool.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 2 June 1808:

Engaged all day at Liverpool with Mr Lace &c. when in consequence of various difficulties which had arisen we determined to send to Mr Bent & request his Attendance in order that we might be all together on the spot.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

2nd June 1808, Thursday
My Aunts from Nantwich came.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 3 June 1808:

At Liverpool again Engaged with Mr Slater & various other persons & drawing out particulars of what I thought requisite to be done by the vendor previous to our accepting the Title. Anxious & fatiguing day.

Saturday 4 June 1808:

At Liverpool again. Meeting Mr Bent when the vendor having agreed to do several matters required by me we finally agreed to take the Title. Dined all together at Eton after which Mr & R Bent set off on their Return. Miss Wallace being to accompany me tomorrow

Sunday 5 June 1808:

Left Eton with Miss Wallace & got home to dinner, but much fatigued & overcome with the hurry & anxiety of the business in which I had been for the last few days engaged.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

Sunday 5th June 1808,

Papa and Miss Wallace from Liverpool came to dinner. Thunder and lightning.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 6 June 1808:

At home Engaged settling various Accounts. Letters &c. &c.

Tuesday 7 June 1808:

At Butterton calling upon Mr Swinnerton. Returned to dinner

Wednesday 8 June 1808:

At home. Engaged on various matters

Thursday 9 June 1808:

Do.

Thursday 10 June 1808:

At Burslem from thence to Newcastle on Liverpool Brewery business & to have settled with Mr Martin the final adjustment of Marsh purchases. Attending a long time at the Public Office assisting the Mayor &c. on hearing of prosecutn. for treading Malt ag. . . .[Myarch]. Miss Crompton & Miss M Crompton arrived.

Friday 11 June 1808:

This day served by Mr James with Ejectment. [ejectment - dismiss tenant by legal process] at the suit of Mr Lawton who had determined to try the validity of my Lease of Swallow Moor wood. In the Evening. at Newcastle on this & other business.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

11th June 1808, Friday
Miss Crompton and Mary [Crompton] came.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 12 June 1808:

At home.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

12th June 1808, Saturday
Went out with Papa in the gig.

Habit has unknown power over us. I think it may in a very short time change the disposition of the mind for instance, a mind accustomed to active enjoyments and to very social habits may in not a very long course of time be so changed by ill health or other circumstance as to be quite happy confined to sedentary amusements, and a very retired life. But the change from the one to the other is very painful. MEC

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 13 June 1808:

At Newcastle advising with Mr Martin relative to the . . .[perpenant] made appertaining Appearance to the Ejectmt. &c. &c. & giving Instructions for defence & in various other matters. Returned to dinner, Alcock.

Tuesday 14 June 1808:

At Sandon attending meeting of the Select Committee. Messrs Sparrow Webb Simpson & self. Returned home late after a fatiguing day.

Wednesday 15 June 1808:

At home. Engaged on various matters. Drawing Case relative to Swallow Moor Wood. &c. Mr Munday

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

15th June 1808, Wednesday
JSC went to Darleston.

Take care not to permit yourself to feel jealousy to a proved friend. If it is felt conceal it to the utmost of your power. Nothing hurts a person or lowers you more in the estimation of your friends than this foolish passion. One is seldom inclined to take it as a proof of love though it often arises from it, but as mistrust and want of confidence few small defects detach more. MC

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 16 June 1808:

Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

16th June 1808, Thursday
Miss Wallace and Eliza went to Darlaston.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 17 June 1808:

At Trentham Inn Meeting of Commrs. Land, Property & Assessed Taxes. Sr. Jno Heathcote & self. Long & hard day but returned late to dinner. Mr Fourchiquour

Saturday 18 June 1808:

At home. Messrs. R & T Bent dined

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

18th June 1808, Saturday [page B75]
Miss Wallace &c returned from Darlaston. Mr Bent, Eliza and Captain Bent dined here. Pleasant day.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 19 June 1808:

Do.

Monday 20 June 1808:

At Newcastle on various matters. Dined at Stoney field & Newcastle meeting Sir John Heathcote & Mr Barrow arranging matters respecting the latter at Shrewsbury when it was finally determined that he should make a trial for 3 months of the out of door business.

Tuesday 21 June 1808:

At Burslem on sundry matters. Left with Mr Wood Drat. of Conveyance which I had perused of Land purchased from Sant. Returned to dinner.

Wednesday 22 June 1808:

At Newcastle. Finally settling with Mr Rd. Crewe the business of his purchase of Dwelling house on the Marsh. Executing Deeds receiving purchase monies &c. &c. long conversation with Mr Bent & Mr Combes relative to the unfortunate state of the Affairs of Mr Gorton, on which they wished to have my advice, when I engaged to dine with Mr Gorton &c. at Stoneyfields on Saturday for the purpose of considering & advising what will be the best to be done.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

22nd June 1808, Wednesday
Eliza, Aunt Betsy, Miss Wallace, Mary Crompton and myself dined at Etruria, also JSC. Very pleasant.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 23 June 1808:

At home. Mowed the slope from the Turnips. Engaged close on various papers & Accounts

[Not dated but should be Friday 24:] Do. Very wet day. Engaged at the Bank. Letter from Mr

Slater relative to Mr Stricklands sinking a part well at the Liverpool Brewery & writing Letter to him.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

24th June 1808, Friday
Mrs Wedgwood dined at Linley Wood, very fine. Mr Butt dined and stayed all night, had some pleasant conversation in the evening.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 25 June 1808:

At Stoneyfields Advising relative to the Affairs of Mr Gorton, which had been reduced to a most minor state. Dined. Mr Combes. Long Conversation & Recommended a Meeting of the Creditors to be immediately called & leave it to them to decide whether a Trust deed shd. be executed or a Commission taken out. pitiful business!

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

25th June 1808, Saturday
Mr Yates and son called. JSC, Miss Wallace, Mary Crompton, my Aunt Betsy, Eliza, AC and myself went accompanied by Mr Butt to Trentham. Met the Robinsons with the Dean and Mrs and Miss Woodhouse who spent the morning with us at a petit diner which we took in the woods in the evening. Spent a great deal of our time upon the water which was most delightful and took tea at the parsonage. One of the pleasantest certainly one of the happiest days I ever spent. As which is seldom the case not one little cross accident arrived to one individual of our party and every one did their best to make the day pass off well.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 26 June 1808:

At home.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

26th June 1808, Sunday
Very hot.

Diary of James Caldwell

Monday 27 June 1808:

Set out with Mr & R Bent to Eton. Arrived in the Evng.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

27th June 1808, Monday
Papa and the two Mr Bents went to Liverpool. Two Miss Frances and Ellen Crompton came.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 28 June 1808:

At Liverpool all day Engaged on Brewery Concerns

Wednesday 29 June 1808:

Do. Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

29th June 1808, Wednesday
Mr Burrow called. JSC returned with him to dinner. M Frances and Ellen left us after dinner.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 30 June 1808:

Do. till afternoon when Mr & R Bent set off on their return home it being fixed for Mrs Crompton to accompany me back tomorrow. Mr Meeke dined at Eton with whom long & serious conversation on the subject of the Wells sinking in his part of the property.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

30th June 1808, Thursday
Mr Burrow dined here. W de Fouchecour.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

July, 1808

Friday 1^st July 1808:

Returned from Eton to Linley Wood. Arrived to dinner but greatly fatigued with the business of the last few days.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

1st July 1808, Friday
Mrs Crompton came with Papa from Eton

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

July
Read Oberon, a poem translated from the German by Sotheby. I do not think it does the translation any credit, except as far as his taste is concerned in fixing upon it to translate as I think from the uncommonness of the incident and some new ideas and [similies, sometimes?] it must be tolerably interesting were the party to account with the other parts. All his wondrous deeds are done with the assistance of Fairys which [lightens?] much of the interest taken in him and the incidents and wondrous exploits which he performs are too far [strained]. The vanishing of the fairy like the evaporating of a summer's cloud was a beautiful idea.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 2 July 1808:

At home. Began mowing the Meadow & engaged on various affairs

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

2nd July 1808, Saturday
Mrs Crompton &c went to tea at Burslem.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 3 July 1808:

Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

3rd July 1808, Sunday
Miss Wettenhall drank tea.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 4 July 1808:

At Newcastle meeting Mr Breck on reference to him & me of dispute between Mr Mayer & Mr Esr. Bloor respecting new inclosed Land which we settled. At the request of Mr Bent staid to dinner in order to a further Conversation with Mr Gorton. long & interesting description of his Affairs.

Tuesday 5 July 1808:

At Wolesley Bridge attending meeting of the Select Committee. returned at night.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

5th July 1808, Tuesday
Went to Etruria to hear Edwards on the Welsh Harp. He brought out a most powerful tone and I was much delighted with the instrument but I think one should be much sooner tired of it than of the piano forte or many other instruments.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 6 July 1808:

At home. Busily engaged in the Hay. Mrs & Miss Comptons left Linley

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

6th July 1808, Wednesday
Mr Holland dined here. The Cromptons left us.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 7 July 1808:

At home

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

7th July 1808, Thursday
Captain Bent called to take leave of us previous to his going into Spain to help the brave patriots, success attend him.

On pardonne plus facillement le colere que le dedain. Mlle de Maintenon
Le bien est toujours facile a cacher, an ne le soupconne point, et mal espion n'est charge de le cacher. Ibid
Il est si naturel d'etre indulgent quand on est heureux. Ibid
Une moquerie insultante est beaucoup plus dificile a supporter que la benlalitte la plus grosiere.
Souvent trop de delicatessen desnuit les grandes ames mais il est aussie pour elles des lumieres soudaines qui peuvent tout a coup les elaiver et les rapprocher. Tout cede a cette force irresistible a la sympathic les craintes, les soupcons, les defiances s'evanvuissent alors sans retour. Ibid

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 8 July 1808:

Do Rain.

Saturday 9 July 1808:

Do. Ann & Bessy left Linley Wood

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

9th July 1808, Saturday [page b78]
JSC called upon JB. My Aunts left us in the evening. Papa got in some hay.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 10 July 1808:

Do.

Monday 11 July 1808:

At Newcastle settling Marsh Accounts with Mr Jno. Beckett. & various other matters. Returned to dinner. Found Mr Ralph of Halifax.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

11th July 1808, Monday
Mr Ralph came to dinner.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 12 July 1808:

At Burslem with Mr Ralph & Stamford. Mr & Mrs Wedgwood & two Miss Allens dined

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

12th July 1808, Tuesday
Mr and Mrs John Wedgwood and two Miss Allens dined here. The last time we shall see Miss Allens before they leave this neighbourhood. The thermometer 81.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 13 July 1808:

Mr Ralph left Linley Wood

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

13th July 1808, Wednesday
Very hot, took a long walk. Glass 82.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 14 July 1808:

At Betley dining at Mr Wm Sneyds

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

14th July 1808, Thursday
Mr Ralph left us. Papa, Mama &c dined at Betley at Mr W Sneydes.
A fine day which we passed almost entirely out of doors.

What skillful sinners e'er would chose [page B79]
To paint the rainbow's varying hues
Unless to mortal it were given
To dip his brushin dies of heaven.
Marmion.

It has been said in the papers that the thermometer was at 89 on the 12th. When I examined it today which was in the evening and in a very cool place it was at 84.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 15 July 1808:

At Borlock Long fishing Afterwards Engaged with various Deeds papers &c.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

15th July 1808, Friday
Very hot. A great storm of thunder and lightning in the night.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 16 July 1808:

Sr. Jno & Lady Fletcher Mr Boughey Mr L Armistead Miss Fletcher & Miss Armistead & Mr W Sneyd of Betley dined.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

16th July 1808, Saturday
Sir John, Lady and Miss Fletcher, Mr Lawrence and Miss Armstead and Mr Baughey and Mr Sneyde dined here.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 17 July 1808

At home,

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

17th July 1808, Sunday
Eliza went to Nantwich.

Those who seek pleasure will find pain, those that pursue ease will find pleasure.
Lady M W Montague.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 18 July 1808:

Do. Engaged in the Hay

Tuesday 19 July 1808:

Do. Do. Drawing Case relative to Swallow Moor Wood

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

19th July 1808, Tuesday
Anne and JSC drank tea at Basford. The thermometer has been said to be above 90 in the last week.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 20 July 1808:

Do. Finished Hay Harvest

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

20th July 1808, Wednesday
Papa finished his hay. [page B80]

Line found in a musty MS in the SC library with this superscription.

To a righte merrie and fayre ladye
who had conceived a moste violente and ridiculous passion for May.

He is gone, he has bade me Adieu
Can I live when my soldiers away
No! I'll go to the wars with a lover so there,
And bear every hardship for Hay

Some follow the army for fame
Some follow the army for pay
To me name is dearer than wealth or a name
But I'll leave it and follow for Hay

Some boast of the charms that the More
And the fresh blooming lily display
These flowers may both beauty and fragrance [discard?]
But I'd rather by half have sweet Hay

Tis for this that I pine and I sigh
My taste it is strange you will say
But over grown grass will sure wither and die
It if is not soon made into Hay

The lady had taken the name of Grass and was very tall. Age 16

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

19th July 1808 [again?]
JSC and Anne rode to Basford.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 21 July 1808:

At Newcastle on various matters

Friday 22 July 1808:

Engaged with Mr Martin relative to Swallow Moor Wood Case & Proceedings in the Cause. Mr Crompton of Chorley Hall several of the young people came to dinner with whom afterwards engaged.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

22nd July 1808, Friday
Mr Crompton and his five eldest girls dined and stayed all night and Mr Martin. As pretty a little flock as I ever saw.

Lines

If - - you inconstant prove
And play a faithless part
You soon may find a fairer love
But ne'er a truer heart.

Tho' there a softer blush may rise
And brighter graces shine
Tho' love beams heavenly from her eyes,
Its beams not love like mine.

For if to her who lovers most true
The fairest form were given
The cheek of brightest rosiest hue
The eye with beams from heaven.

The form of Angels from above
Had surely been to me
For mortal heart ne'er owned such love
As - - mine to thee Age 16

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

22nd July 1808, Friday [again]
Mr Crompton, his five eldest girls and Mr Martin came to dinner and stayed all night. They are a very pretty little set.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 23 July 1808:

Mr Crompton &c. left Linley Wood

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

23rd July 1808, Saturday
The girls came home from Etruria. Thunder and lightning.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 24 July 1808:

At home

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

24th July 1808, Sunday
Papa, Mamma, my Aunts and JSC went to Maer.

Diary of James Caldwell

Monday 25 July 1808:

At Marsh Hall. Miss Stamford, Elizabeth & self & Stamford Mr Butt & Mr Blunt dined

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

25th July 1808, Monday
We spent the whole day in the house [resproaching?]

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 26 July 1808:

Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

26th July 1808, Tuesday

Oh say my sweet [man Nan?] will you follow your lover
O'er wild wars, through dangers and half the world over
And when the loud tumult of war would alarm thee.

Can the love of thy Jamie from vain regrets charm thee
Oh yes dearest Jem, I can follow my lover
O'er wild wars, through dangers and all the world over
The wildest of tumult would fail to alarm me
If Jamie were near with his kind voice to charm me.

And if the poor Jamie return faint and eerie
Ill used by the world to seek peace with his dearie
Wilt thou leave the gay scenes in beauties full glory
To list to the woes of a poor soldiers story.

And when my poor soldier returns faint and eerie
Oh when shall he find peace if not with his dearie
But she'el fly the vain world to list his sad story
For his woes are her woes his glory her glory

And if when he's fighting for honor and thee love
By the chances of war he should sadly wounded be born
Oh sweet will thou then take the nurses hard part.
And Jem maimed and helpless be dear to they heart

And if thou art wounded when fighting for me love
The fondest of nurses thy Nan will ever be true
In the midst of they suffering more dear to my heart
My only joy then ease to thee to impart.

But if after this they false love prove a ranger
And seek all his bliss in the smile of a stranger
Get soon repentant a still tender lover
Wilt open thy heart and forgive the wild rover.

But if after this then should'st prove a false ranger
And seek all they joys in the smiles of a stranger
Your Nancy will die when her Jamie proves a rover.
Age 17. Linley Wood.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 27 July 1808:

Returned from Marsh Hall

Thursday 28 July 1808:

At home

Friday 29 July 1808:

At Mr Gilberts relative to Roughwood Mill from thence to Burslem

From James Caldwell in London. 1808

Letter to Mrs Caldwell

Linley Wood

Lawton,Cheshire.

From Bedford Coffee House

29 July 1808

Knowing well, my beloved Eliza, how desirous you will be to received the earliest intelligence of me, I will not let the Post depart without letting you know that I now safely arrived at this place, where I have met with most comfortable accommodation as to rooms [les?] and certainly not the worse for my journey, though every step that we advanced seemed to increase the painful reluctance that I felt at being thus dragged as it were from every thing that renders life valuable or desirable to me.

Most deeply and ardently do I hope that our separation will be of no long continuance.

The Agents here seem to speak with great confidence of the event of our business; but such has been the extreme capriciousness of the determinations of the Committee of the House of Commons on Election Petitions this Session of Parliament, that no confidence ought to be indulged till all is over. I shall, however, be detained here a short time after the Election matters, Mr Sparrow of [Brighton, Bichton?] who I saw in our journey up, being desirous that a general meeting of the Noblemen and Gentlemen interested in our Navigation Questions, who are now in London, should be held whilst I am here in order that I might attend.

This, you see, will be another arduous effort to go through. But no matter. Useful, honorable and active life has ever been my object, nor shall I now depart from my system.

London is full of people. We slept at Coventry the first night, at [Brinet?] last night, and arrived here between and twelve this morning. I have an airy, quiet back sleeping room and a good sitting room up stairs to the Covent Garden which is lively and pleasant.

Do not fear but that I will take every care of myself. Do the same and let me indulge the [luxuriant, happiest?] thought of finding you on my return well and in spirits. Indeed my beloved wife, we have abundant reasons to rejoice in the felicity which we enjoy; and I already feel the bitterness of self reproach from the recollection of the, I fear, too painful feelings that I have lately occasioned you.

But on that kind indulgence in which I have so often found refuge, I must again rely, if I have been too hasty or too earnest. But you know well in what feelings and convictions all has originated. I shall depend of a reserving a line on Thursday morning.

Remember me in the kindest manner toStamfordand all very dearly beloved girls and think of me as ever as your most tenderly affectionate and grateful husband.

JW Caldwell

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 30 July 1808:

At Newcastle Brewery

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

30th July 1808, Saturday
Set out to the sea in the evening and only went to Nantwich. I was never before so sorry to leave home when the time arrived for my departure though I had thought with much pleasure of it before. I can only account for it from the fear which I experience of feeling a void ['which is should feel' crossed out] from the want of friends to chose kind attentions, a dear society I was so much indebted for supporting my spirits when I foolishly permitted them to flag, [and?] to raising I hope imaginary fears or disponding and discontent and because I did not enjoy such good health or high spirits as some of my friends.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 31 July 1808:

At home. Mr Hill called & paid Mrs Tollets Legacy

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

31st July 1808, Sunday
Went to Chapel and drank tea at my Uncles with Miss Harwood.
If you would pass through life easily beware of prejudice, it is the rock on which our pleasures may sometimes our happiness split. MC

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

August, [1808]

Monday 1^st August 1808:

At Etruria

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

1st August 1808, Monday [page B86]
Next to Blair [Blacon?] Mr Sandworths, where we met Mrs and Sophia Ralph, our companions. The little party was christened.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 2 August 1808:

Do. & at Burslem

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19 on holiday with her Aunt and co

2nd August 1808, Tuesday
We set out on our tour. My Aunt and I in her carriage and Mrs R and Sophia who were joined at Chester by an old friend of theirs in Mr Thomas, in a chaise. We slept at Bala and went through Mold, Ruthin and Corwen. The roads are stony and there is a line of ranges of mountains near Ruthin forming one side of the Dale of Clwyd which I think we see at Linley Wood.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 3 August 1808:

From Etruria to Sandon attending Select Committee Meeting

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19 on holiday in Wales

3rd August 1808, Wednesday
Left Bala for Dolegelle {Dolgellau?], an amazing fine ride, in some places the hills are quite wooded to the summits. We went to [Rowign Towyn? [Tywyn?]] to sleep at Talyllyn [Tal Y Llyn Lake] a beautiful lake, half way we went to see a cascade and stopped at a little inn where we met a very amusing Welsh man who spoke English very well. Towyn {Tywyn?] is a wild uncultivated spot at more than a mile distant from the sea. The people here speak little or no English and in general go without shoes and stockings. I think the Welsh are a very pleasant people, open and friendly and kind hearted. Their English sounds very pretty and the addition of a short indeed or sure to the yes or no [in the manner of the French or Irish] gives a great air of civility and willingness to oblige. They appear to have great innocency as if their lofty mountains by which they are surrounded have formed a barrier against foreign corruption but I fear they will soon learn the acts of their neighbours though I hope they will not lose their natural hospitality and kindness. The ride from Towyn to Dolgellau to [Airgn] is now I think, the finest I ever saw.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 4 August 1808:

At home. Engaged in the Affair with Mr Donald & discharged him. Setting Swedish Turnips. [swede]

DIary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19 on holiday in Wales

4th August 1808, Thursday
We left Towyn and returned to Dolgelle by Machynlleth, the road was so very bad that we had passed that we preferred going a few miles round. Mr Thomas left our party at Machynlleth. The road is very fine, the whole way and from the top of a hill which you descend to Talyllyn you have a fine view of Cader Idris from its summit to its base. We slept at Dolgelle, the inn was very full which obliged us to take our meals out of the house at a Mrs Robert's. Mrs Evans is a good natured woman and has a most noble presence.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 5 August 1808:

At home

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19 on holiday in Wales

5th August 1808, Friday
We all went to Tan-y-Bwlch where for want of horses we were obliged to stay all night. We spent great part of the day in Mr Oakleys beautiful grounds.

Diary of James Caldwell at Linley Wood

Saturday 6 August 1808:

At home

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19 on holiday in Wales with her aunt.

6th August 1808, Saturday
With great difficulty we procured two pair of horses in the morning. My Aunt to ease [use?] them in her carriage set out to walk up the hill. I followed in the carriage and Mrs Ralph and Sophia followed when I was about the middle of the hill. I saw Mrs Ralph and Sophia retreated to the inn. There was no turning back and therefore my Aunt and I were obliged to proceed to Beddgelert alone. The occasion of their delay was a restive horse but as we might have waited another day for a pair we thought it best to proceed. We went for them but were ourselves obliged to go on to Caernarvon. They joined us late at night.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

[This is the end of this volume but entries are continued "In the beginning of this Book"]

[Page headed Journal brd. from the End of this Book]

Sunday 7 August 1808:

At home.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - on holiday in with her Aunt (in Bangor, on way to Beaumaris)

7th August 1808, Sunday [page B89]
We went to see the Castle. There certainly must have been more building as the court seems much too large for the size of the building and the castle much too small for the courtyard in which the town now stands to be useful. It made me feel the truth of Corinne's sentiment que l'homme en presence de ce que est immutable. We crossed the ferry, the tide and the winds being very favourable and reached Beaumaris to dinner but it was so late we were not able to go to church.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 8 August 1808:

At Newcastle on various matters in reference of a Cause in the King's Bench between Mrs Kelsall of Hall a Wood & Mr Tomlinson of Alsager relative to a Pew in . . .[Bottemly] Church. Engaged all day.

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday in Wales with her Aunt Hannah(?) (Beaumaris, Angelsey, Wales)

8th August 1808, Monday
We were obliged to pass all the day at the inn. At night there were great illuminations for the arrival of Lord and Lady Balkley[?] at Barrow Hill (Bulkeley, of Baron Hill, Beaumaris)

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 9 August 1808:

At Newcastle Races. Dined at the Ordinary. Bent still very ill. With him in the Evening. Returned to Linley late.

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday in Wales aged 19

9th August 1808, Tuesday [page B90]
We got into our lodgings at Mrs Wynnes. (Beaumaris, Angelsey, Wales)

10th August 1808, Wednesday
There are no sands at this place and in general the sea has more the appearance of a river or fine lake than a port of St George's Channel. There is a little shipping but the coast has very few marine charms and those fine expanded feelings excited by a roaring or unbordered sea are not to be experienced at this place.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 11 August 1808:

Do. Bent better Do. Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19 on holiday in Wales with her aunt

11th August 1808, Thursday
Sir John Chetwode called. He had ridden over from Abergelle and returned there the next morning.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 12 August 1808:

Do. Do. Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19 on holiday in Beaumaris, Angelsey, Wales with her aunt

12th August 1808, Friday
We walked in Lord Balkleys [Bulkeleys?] grounds.

Diary of James Caldwell at Linley Wood

Saturday 13 August 1808:

At home. Engaged on the farm & various matters

Sunday 14 August 1808:

At Newcastle Mr Bent

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday in Beaumaris, Angelsey, Wales with her aunt

14th August 1808, Sunday
Went to church. The sea very rough but the wind was so high that we could not stay on the shore.

Diary of James Caldwell at Linley Wood

Monday 15 August 1808:

Do. on various matters

Tuesday 16 August 1808:

At home. Engaged previous to going to Alsager

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday in Beaumaris, Angelsey, Wales with her aunt.

16th August 1808, Tuesday

The longer I live the more I cam convinced that I possess a treasure which few besides myself a and [find?] ever have the blessing of a perfect mother in dispositions and in very thing in which the- has any share how great a treasure this is perhaps unfortunately those in best feature experience the want but speaking individually those can alone appreciate who are daily eye witnesses of her retiring virtues and perfect temper.

Diary of James Caldwell at Linley Wood

Wednesday 17 August 1808:

Do. Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

17th August 1808, Wednesday[page B91]
The weather is cold and wet and from all appearances it is in general so. The high Carnafon shire hills attracting the clouds makes it always look gloomy on that side.

Diary of James Caldwell at Linley Wood

Thursday 18 August 1808:

At Stafford. Served on the Grand Jury. Dined with the Judges. Lawrence & Le Blanc but Mr T Lawrence detained in Court

Diary of Mary Caldwell at Beaumaris aged 19

18th August 1808, Thursday
Took a long walk in Lord Balkleys grounds. (Bulkeley)

Diary of James Caldwell at Linley Wood

Friday 19 August 1808:

Do. Dined with the Sherriff. On Spl Jury. Ld. Darley & Higgs

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday at Beaumaris aged 19

19th August 1808, Friday
I bathed in the sea. For the want of a machine I was obliged to be carried in, the water still and consequently not so pleasant.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 20 August 1808:

This morning commenced at 8 o'Clock the Special Jury Cause of . . .[Ilnett] & Beech on which I had been summoned as a Spl Juror. This was a second trial a verdict having been found at the last Assizes for the Plt. who claimed under a will which it was said had been cancelled since the death of the Testator a Mr Haddinton. After a hearing of 13 hours & a deliberation of an hour by the Jury we found a Verdict for the Defend. the Heir at law to the great satisfaction of the Court, though contrary to a strong summing up by the judge in fav. of the Plt. The Sol. Genl. Sr. Tho. Plumer attended who afterwards said that by our verdict we had done signal service to the country, condemning in strong terms the Judges Address to the Jury. Spl Jurors Sr. Jno Heathcote Freeman Moreton Walhouse Jno Wedgwood & J Caldwell.

Sunday 21 August 1808:

Returned home from Stafford. Dined at Stoneyfields where I found Bent much better though during my absence he had had a dangerous relapse.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

21st August 1808, Sunday
Went to church, heard a fine orthodox sermon from Dr Griffiths, preached without notes: he was very earnest but I do not admire this way of preaching as there must be so much repetition and the language unless from a very eloquent man very faulty. A fine hot day.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 22 August 1808:

At Newcastle on various matters. Shrewsbury Concerns &c.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

22nd August 1808, Monday
Bathed and viewed the castle which is not so large as Caernarfon but is more perfect, it is of the same and is quite surrounded by walls. (Beaumaris Castle)

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 23 August 1808:

At home. Mr Woods family & Mrs Wilson.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

23rd August 1808, Tuesday
Bathed, a very fine day.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 24 August 1808:

Mr Thomas Wedgwood of Burslem & the Rev Mr Richardson dined

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday at Beaumaris, Angelsey, Wales with her aunt

24th August 1808, Wednesday
Walked with my Aunt to see Mrs Wynne at her farm.

[page B92]
He that hopes for that advantage which is to be gained from unrestrained communication must some times hazard, by unpleasing truths that friendship which he strives to incite [recruit?]. the chief rule to be observed in the exercise of this dangerous office, is to presume it pure from all mixture of vanity or self interest; to forbear admonition or reproof when our consciences tell us that they are incited not by the hopes of reforming faults by the desire of shewing our discernment, or gratifying our pride by the mortification of another. It is not indeed certain that the most refined [catition, caution?] will find a proper time for bringing a man to the knowledge of his own failings, or the most zealous benevolence reconcile him to that judgment by which they are detected but he who endeavours only the happiness of him who he reproves will always have the satisfaction of obtaining or deserving kindness if he succeeds he benefits his friend, if he fails he has at least the consciousness that he suffers for only doing well. - Rambler.

Men are always quicksighted to see reason for an excuse for themselves and if self interest has been the motive for the reproof it is seldom able to conceal itself under the specious veil of friendship and when it is perceived it not only has the immediate effect of placing all reproofs to the score of interest, or vanity, but it must for ever lesten the estime and confidence placed in a friend.

Good humour is a state betwixt gayety of a mind at leisure to regard the gratification of another. - Rambler.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 25 August 1808:

At Lane End all day attending on Arbitration Sir Jno. Heathcote & Glover relative to Steam Engine & Mill at Lane End. Settled the business satisfactorily to both Parties.

Friday 26 August 1808:

At home. Engaged with Mr Wood & family

Saturday 27 August 1808:

Do. Do.

Sunday 28 August 1808:

In the Evening Mr Woods family left us

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19 on holiday in Beaumaris with her aunt

28th August 1808, Sunday
Went to church, took a long walk up the old road.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 29 August 1808:

At the Rev Mr Robinsons of Swinnerton dined & staid all night

Tuesday 30 August 1808:

At Miss Moretons. dined . Returned in the Evening after having appointed with Mr Bent to go myself to Shrewsbury on Thursday.

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday aged 19

30th August 1808, Tuesday
The sea very rough for this place. It is the custom in this place to give the horses the young tops of the gorse green after having been chopped quite fine in a mill when they become quite soft and they say the horses grow very well, but I do not think those I have seen speak well for their fare.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 31 August 1808:

Engaged all day with papers &c. preparatory to my setting off to Shrewsbury. In the Evening went to Stoneyfields. Long conversation with Mr Bent

September, [1808]

Thursday 1^st September 1808:

Set off from Stoneyfields about 7 oClock & arrived at Shrewsbury to dinner. John Bent accompanied me having prevailed upon his father to let him take this little excursion. In the Evening engaged with Mr Hulbert

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday at Beaumaris, Angelsey, Wales with her aunt

1st September 1808, Wednesday [page B94]
Took a ride to see Penmon, it is quite uninhabited but there is duty done in the church to which there is a roof composed of small stones joined together with mortar like a house wall.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 2 September 1808:

Very closely engaged all day at the Brewery & with various persons. Dined at Mr John Heatherley and for the first time was introduced to Mrs H. who I found to be a very pleasing young woman & very likely to make him comfortable & happy.

Saturday 3 September 1808:

Engaged at Do. till the afternoon when we left Shrewsbury & came to . . .[Turnhill]

Sunday 4 September 1808:

Dined at Stoneyfields/ Long conversation & discussion with Mr B on the various subjects of my journey. Arrived at home in the evening about 8 oClock. Anxious & fatiguing journey.

Monday 5 September 1808:

At Burslem in consequence of Letter from Mr Wood relative to Arrangements preferred by Jno & A Gallimon for getting the Coals in the Bycars. Returned to dinner. Alcock

Tuesday 6 September 1808:

At Stone attending Meeting of Select Committee. Close day of Business.

Wednesday 7 September 1808:

Do. From thence to Darlaston to dinner & staid all night.

Thursday 8 September 1808:

At home. Engaged on various matters.

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday at Beaumaris, Angelsey, Wales with her aunt.

8th September 1808, Thursday
Bathed, the sea very rough

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 9 September 1808:

Engaged with Mr Cobday of Sandwell pursuant to Appointment and advising on his

Brief & the cases on the Tenants of the Lawton Estates standing for Trial at Chester Assizes the next week - Carrying Wheat. Unwell

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday, moved to Aber aged 19

9th September 1808, Friday
Left Beaumaris, crossed the sands to Aber, the sea rough.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 10 September 1808:

Morning from Mr Dennison the Abstracts of the Title to the Porter Brewery at Liverpool together with the Draft of the Conveyance for my perusal previous to their being finally laid before Mr Atkinson. perusing & examining the same accordingly & making various Observations to accompany these papers.

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday at Aber aged 19

10th September 1808, Saturday
Walked to see the waterfall which is very high but wants woods, there not being a tree near it.

Diary of James Caldwell at Linley Wood

Sunday 11 September 1808:

Still very unwell. In the House

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday at Conwy, Wales with her aunt

11th September 1808, Sunday
Came to Conway (Conwy), a fine day far seeing the view from Penmaenmawr which is a mountain is one of the finest things I saw in Wales.
Met Mr and Mrs Edward and Emma Crompton at Conway in the evening and Mr and Mrs Bailley, took a pleasant walk. Mr Bailey, my Aunt and myself went to the castle in the evening.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 12 September 1808:

Having received a Letter in the morning from Mr Bent informing me that he expected Mr Slater at Newcastle this day, on which account & various others he wished to see me, went to Newcastle though still far from well. Long conversation relative to Macclesfield Concern & an uneasiness which had arisen with Mr Hardley relative to the discharging of one of the servants. Shrewsbury &c. &c. Dined at Stoneyfields with Mr Slater & R Bent. Long discussion relative to the works and arrangements carrying on at Liverpool. Returned in the Evening. Sent the Abstracts &c by the Mail to Mr Atkinson Sol. Chancery Lane.

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday in Conwy, Wales with her aunt

12th September 1808, Monday
Went altogether to see the castle which is I think a much more satisfactory one than Caernafon and to my eye much more beautiful. The view from a small green platform looking to the river is the most beautiful thing I almost ever saw. The town walls are also much more picturesque, being in some parts clothed with remarkably fine ivy. We walked round the base of the castle from whence you have a more perfect coup d'oeil of the whole structure and an idea of its immense strength. We dined altogether and then proceeded on our way to St.Asaphs.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 13 September 1808:

At Burslem. Colliery &c. &c. Returned home to dinner. Mr Fourchiquour. In the Evening Miss Potts who brought from Dr Crompton the Drft. of the Partnership Articles with Sundry Observations made thereon by the Doctor & Mr Davison

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday aged 19

13th September 1808, Tuesday [page B96]
We parted from the Ralphs about ½ a mile from Chester. I was very sorry to quit my companions but the idea of seeing home so soon reconciled me and banished all other thoughts. I do not think that the heart is able to admit two friends equally dear at the same time. It may possess many intimate ones and a few very great friends but one only to which its inmost recesses are known. A kind of second self who is so necessary to its happiness that every thing seems deficient in which she has no part and every feeling and [serit?] a weight [that?] shared by her. MC.

Diary of James Caldwell at Linley Wood.

Wednesday 14 September 1808:

Engaged perusing articles & observations & making minutes for replies.

Diary of Mary Caldwell at end of her holiday with her aunt in Wales

14th September 1808, Wednesday
Got home to dinner, found Miss Potts and Anne Lawrence at Linley Wood.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 15 September 1808:

Miss Wedgwood & Miss Morgan at dinner. Mr & Mrs Tollett who were to have been of the party prevented coming. pleasant day.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

15th September 1808, Thursday
Miss Wedgwood and Miss Morgan came to dinner. I never saw a person who inspired confidence so much at the first coup d'oiel as Miss Morgan. She is not very handsome but there is something in her eye very kind and at the same time very penetrating.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 16 September 1808:

Do. Mrs Bence and Mr Butt Jno Gladwin R Bent & Mr Batt at dinner

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

16th September 1808, Friday
Miss Potts and Anne Lawrence left us. The two girls and Mrs R Bent, Mr Butt and Mr Gladwin and Mrs Bence dined. Mr Bent and Gladwin did not stay all night.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 17 September 1808:

At Newcastle, Brewery Concerns Sr. W . . .[Egertons] Bankruptcy. Returned to dinner. Miss Wedgwood 7 Miss Morgan left Linley.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

17th September 1808, Saturday
Miss Wedgwood and Miss Morgan went. Mr Butt went at night. I believe that coming to so much bustle after the quiet six weeks we spent at the sea was rather too (much?) for me. I certainly never felt such low spirit with so little cause.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 18 September 1808:

At home

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

18th September 1808, Sunday
The girls and Mrs Bence. I liked Mrs Bence infinitely better than I expected. She possesses that happy cheerfulness which is at every bodies service and always ready when there is any flag of conversation yet she has none of those boisterous spirits which overpower weak ones, and require a person either to be on the stretch of exertion to cope with them, or to give up the effort in despair and sink far below.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 19 September 1808:

At Newcastle. Mayor Gartons Bankcy. &c. &c. Alcock who staid all night. Musick

Tuesday 20 September 1808:

At home. Mr & Mrs Slater &c of Liverpool, with Mr & Mrs W Bent. Long conversation & discussion relative to affairs & works at Liverpool Brewery &c. &c.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

20th September 1808, Tuesday
Mr, Mrs Old, Mrs and Miss Slater came with Mr and Mrs W Bent to dinner. The nuns are in general remarkably cheerful and well informed; their chief amusement consists of reading all the publications that come out, particularly political ones of which they are remarkably fond. The Lady Abess of the Convent in which Mrs Slater was had never quitted its walls from the age of 13 at the time of the revolution. Her convent was pulled down and she was obliged to re-enter this wicked world on the verge of 80.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 21 September 1808:

Set off with Mr & Mrs Bent to Manchester in order to attend with the former the second Meeting under Messrs Ruck & Jno Garton Commr of Bankrtcy at which he & his friends were very desirous that I shd. be present. Arrived at Mrs Sandfords to dinner. Engaged in the Evening & till late with Mr Garton & Mr Cooke the Solr. under the Commrs, making Statement of Mr Gartons Affairs, & various other Arrangements.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

21st September 1808, Wednesday
The Slaters left us. Papa went with the Bents to Manchester. JSC went to Bostock.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 22 September 1808:

Engaged relative to the Meeting which went off better than was expected & having fair hopes that Mr G cd. obtain his certificate.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

22nd September 1808, Thursday
Mamma, my Aunt Anne and I went to drink tea at Mrs Morris's. Eliza went to Basford.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 23 September 1808:

Engaged on various matters at Manchester. Called on Mr Atkinsons Affairs at Mr William Hardman looking at his pictures, particularly a celebrated one in his opinion by Leonardo da Vinci. A Holy family or rather the benediction of St John by our Saviour, wonderfully fine picture; particularly the faces of the Virgin our Saviour & St John & the Arms of the Virgin both the one thrown over St John & the foreshortening of the other. The flesh of all very yellow tint. The Angel on the right of the picture appeared to me to be a very awkward figure reminding one of an Egyptian Sphinx. The rock on which St Johns knee rests not sufficiently made out and having the idea of it being really supported by the tops of long & slender flowers. The flowers delicately painted but to my eye put of place. I was much pleased with the superiority expressed in the Countenance of our Saviour, & the complacent humanity of that of St John both being the faces of Infants. Picture about 5 feet by 4 feet 6, Valued at 2000 guineas. In the Evening at the theatre which is a very fine one: but the acting very moderate. Macbeth. Left with Mr William Hardman Copies of the Letters which had passed relative to a misunderstanding with Mr Handley at Macclesfield.

Saturday 24 September 1808:

Returned from Macclesfield. Arrived at Linley Wood to dinner.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

24th September 1808, Saturday
JSC and Papa came home. Mr and Mrs Bent dined.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 25 September 1808:

In the morning at home. Service &c. In the afternoon at Etruria to fetch home Eliza. On return Brewer from Macclesfield.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

25th September 1808, Sunday [page B100]
Drank tea at Etruria, brought Eliza home.

[crossed out 'I cannot imagine it any thing as to wishing that the remarks of sensible men should agree without any previous'] It has often been a cause of surprise how sensible men should make remarks about things of which they can not have had the opportunities requisite for forming a judgment yet which upon enquiry are found to be just; such as public opinions, modes and -
I cannot imagine it anything as to wishing that the remarks of sensible men should agree without any previous communication of ideas. MC.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 26 September 1808:

At Newcastle in consequence of Letter received from Mr W Hardman. Conversation with . . .[Parking] the Brewer from Macclesfield relative to his dispute with Mr Hindley.

Tuesday 27 September 1808:

At home. Engaged on various matters. Mr Fourchiquour

Wednesday 28 September 1808:

Do. Liverpool Brewery Articles &c.

Thursday 29 September 1808:

Do. Messrs Hill, Mayor, Chetwin, Sneyd, Sparrow, Plant, Hart, Bagshaw, Poole, W Kinnersley, Ford, Clowes, Philips, Nicksson dined.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

29th September 1808, Thursday
My Aunt Eliza and Anne set out for Eton and went by the way of Nantwich. The Major &c and Mr Chetwynd dined at Linley Wood.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 30 September 1808:

At Newcastle dining at Mr Sparrows. Mr & Mrs Chetwin. Early this morning a considerable Snow. Mr Whitney a Labourer said the flakes at . . . church the largest he ever saw.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

30th September 1808, Friday [page B101]
Dined at Mr Sparrows, met Miss Martin and Mr and Mrs Chetwynde. A very pleasant day. Very cold. We had the ground covered with snow which lay under some of the hedges till next morning.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

October, [1808]

Saturday 1^st October 1808:

At home.

Sunday 2 October 1808:

Do. Having this morning received the papers from Liverpool relating to the Brewery at Newcastle with the same consulting Mr & R Bent as to final Settlemt. of the Draft of the Conveyance.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

2nd October 1808, Sunday
Went with Papa and Mamma to drink tea at Stoney Fields.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 3 October 1808:

At Burslem & Newcastle. Writing Letter to Mr Lace with papers.

Tuesday 4 October 1808:

At Sandon attending Meeting of Select Committee Messrs Sparrow, Webb & Self. Returned in the Evening to Darlaston where I slept.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

4th October 1808, Tuesday
Went to breakfast to Darlaston with Emma. Mr and Mrs J Wedgwood came to dinner. Papa came at night from Sandon.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 5 October 1808:

Returned home to dinner. Called at Brewery. Conversation with Mr B as to Clause to be inserted in Liverpool Brewery Articles relative to the instruction of his son.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

5th October 1808, Wednesday
Returned home.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 6 October 1808:

Set off to Nantwich. Elizbeth & Mary.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

6th October 1808, Thursday
Went to Nantwich by Sandbatch.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 7 October 1808:

At Nantwich dined at Mr Skerretts

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

7th October 1808, Friday
Dined and supped at my Uncles. Met the Garnetts, Mrs Wickstead and Mr Merrit.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 8 October 1808:

At Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

8th October 1808, Saturday
Miss Harwood, Mr Tom and William Garnet and my Uncle supped at my Aunts.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 9 October 1808:

Returned home

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

9th October 1808, Sunday
Came home after dinner. JSC went to Eton.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 10 October 1808:

At Newcastle Conversation with Mr & R Bent relative to Dr Crompton &c. From thence to Hanley, attending the Enrolment & swearing in of Hanley Volunteers into the local Militia. 300. Messrs Smith, Spode & Self. returned late to dinner much fatigued. This evening executed a codicil to my will.

"And now to Wisdom's healing Springs I Fly"

Anne Caldwell

Linley Wood

Nr Lawton

Cheshire

1808 1809

A Caldwell

Common Place Book

1808

10^th October, 1808, Monday

Spent a long day at Liverpool, called at Miss Wallace’s who shake of the hand convinced me that she was not one of those characters who forget past intimacies at Dr Branbreths &c.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 11 October 1808:

At Burslem with Elizabeth.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell aaged 17 at Charles Crompton's place, Eton House, Liverpool with her mother and sisters

11^th October, 1808, Tuesday

Dined at Mr Martins. Mr and Mrs Hodson junior, Mr J Hodson, Mrs Hodson senior. Went to a miscellaneous concert. I was delighted beyond expression. It far exceeded my expectations and I really did not know how to express my feelings. Mrs Billington Harrison and Bartholomew, Lindley on the violin, cellow. Holmes on the bassoon, Yaniewicz on the violin [Sweet Bird?].

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 12 October 1808:

[no entry]

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell aged 17 at Charles Crompton's place, Eton House, Liverpool with her mother and sisters

12^th October, 1808, Wednesday

A selection in the morning. I as much delighted as ever “in sweetest Harmony” delightful by Mrs B. Returned home to dinner.

A party of eight gentlemen. Dr Wills, a rough Mr Duckworth: Shepherd Walker hood and two Cagleys, two Bayleys. A very nervy day, too much people are deceived in layout out for admiration attention in that case they certainly have but not what I should think flattering!

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 13 October 1808:

At Newcastle. Annual adjustments & Settlement of Brewery Accounts. Closely engaged.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell aged 17 at Charles Crompton's place, Eton House, Liverpool with her mother and sisters

13^th October, 1808, Thursday

Creation in the morning. I dined at Mr Bayleys and Concert in the afternoon. Very pleasant day.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

13th October 1808, Thursday
Papa and Mamma went to Stoney Fields.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 14 October 1808:

Do. Do. & till late at night.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell aged 17 at Charles Crompton's place, Eton House, Liverpool with her mother and sisters

14^th October, 1808, Friday

Messiah dined at Miss Wallace’s. Though still very much delighted with the music I think there is too much together. I do not find myself for these two last days entirely absorbed as at first. I can easily conceive Mary to feel much more gratification than myself but I felt more than Mary and Hannah I think.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 15 October 1808:

Set off the Morning express from Stoneyfields to attend a Meeting of the Executors of the late Mrs Tollett which had been appointed to be held this day at eleven oClock at Sandbach but on my Arrival at Linley Wood found a Letter from Mr Armistead informing me that such Meeting had been postponed to Thursday the 20th. Returned back to Newcastle in order to compleat the Brewery Accounts. Close day again, but finished the whole satisfactorily & returned to Linley Wood at night.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell aged 17 at Charles Crompton's place, Eton House, Liverpool with her mother and sisters

15^th October, 1808, Saturday

All the party except myself to Mr Yate’s and Concert. It was with very little regret that I stayed at home. I had more music in my head than I could well hold.

Diary of James Caldwell aged 19

Sunday 16 October 1808:

At home. Unwell

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell aged 17 at Charles Crompton's place, Eton House, Liverpool with her mother and sisters

16^th October, 1808, Sunday

At Mr Shepherd’s. Saw a great many coins, a few of which only were interesting. * viz Spectator [pray is dimple spelt with two p’s?]. Philip of Macedon and Lysmachus two very fine heads. As an illuminated manuscript of Poggio Bracciolini.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 17 October 1808:

At Stone attending Meeting of Genl. Committee

Tuesday 18 October 1808:

Do. Do. General Assembly

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

18th October 1808, Sunday
I dined at Basford. Met Miss Wedgwood and Miss Morgan and Mr Gladwin. Had a very pleasant day.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell aged 17 at Charles Crompton's place, Eton House, Liverpool with her mother and sisters

18^th October, 1808, Tuesday

To Mr Roscoes to tea and supper. A most delightful evening pour moi jetais parfaitement heureus dans une maison pleine de tous les productions de beaux arts et parlent avec un homme que je trouve bien agreeable sur le subject que j’aime le mieux, la poesie. Saw a fine head by Leonardo de Vince and several beautiful pictures but I do not yet understand painting enough to receive all the pleasure I otherwise should do.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 19 October 1808:

Returned home under the idea of setting off tomorrow morning for Liverpool, but this postponed on Acct of Mr Blunts disposition.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

19th October 1808, Monday
Came home with Papa to a very late dinner. JSC came home and brought Edward Crompton.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 20 October 1808:

At Sandbach meeting Mr Armistead, Mr Hill, Mr Hinchliffe & Sir Corbet Corbets agent settling Acct with the latter & to have compleated the Loan to Mr Armistead on Mortgage of his Estates. Engaged all morning but it not being possible to get the Deeds compleated I agreed to attend again on Saturday

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell aged 17 at Charles Crompton's place, Eton House, Liverpool with her mother and sisters

20^th October, 1808, Thursday

The Brandreths and Roscoes long argument against Wordsworth. Mr N? Roscoe thinks him a finer poet than Southey or Scott. Conversation with Dr P. Brandreth, another display which misfired its aim.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 21 October 1808:

At home.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell aged 17 at Charles Crompton's place, Eton House, Liverpool with her mother and sisters

21^st October, 1808, Friday

Called at Allerton. N. Roscoe walked to Eton with us. Mrs Lawrence and the Dodsons &c. Mrs Lawrence very literary in her closet but too modest to bring any learning into conversation where she has the air of a very fine lady who knows nothing at all.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 22 October 1808:

At Sandbach again finally settling Mr Armisteads business.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell aged 17 at Charles Crompton's place, Eton House, Liverpool with her mother and sisters

22^nd October, 1808, Saturday

Went to Mrs Wallaces to stay a few days.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 23 October 1808:

At home

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

23rd October 1808, Sunday
That urged by thee I turned the trueful
Shewed erring bride, whatever is, is right
That reason, passion, answer one great aim
That true self love and social are the same
Hopes essay on Man.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell at Eton House Liverpool with her mother and sisters

23^rd 1808, Sunday

To Mr Yates Chapel. Mrs Martin, Mr N Yates drank tea with us.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 24 October 1808:

At Burslem with Edward Crompton. On our return found Mr Skerrett of Nantwich

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

24th October 1808, Monday
My Uncle came.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17 at Eton House, Liverpool with her mother and sisters

24^th October, 1808, Monday

Hodsons, Mr Littledale, Wallace, W Roscoe, J Fletcher, Miss Corris to supper, very pleasant evening. Saw a cable manufacture in the morning.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 25 October 1808:

Engaged with Mr Skerrett &c. &c.

Wednesday 26 October 1808:

Do. Messrs W & R Bent came to dinner on their way to Liverpool for which place we had agreed to set off in the morning for the purpose of finally arranging & Executing the Partnership Articles with Dr Crompton & on other matters

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

26th October 1808, Wednesday
Mr W and R Bent came to dinner.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell at Eton House, Liverpool with her mother and sisters

26^th October, 1808, Wednesday

The Roscoes shewed us the exchange lent to a jewelers shop, thimbles and pieds, Mr Coniage

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 27 October 1808:

Set off to Liverpool & arrived at the Star & Garter to a late dinner. Engaged in

the Evening with Mr Slater.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

27th October 1808, Thursday
Papa and the two Mr Bents went to Liverpool.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17 at Eton, near Liverpool with her mother and sisters

27^th October, 1808, Thursday

Returned to Eton

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 28 October 1808:

Closely engaged all day at the Brewery. Dined late at Mr Slaters.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

28th October 1808, Friday
My Uncle left us. Much rain ever since this month came in.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell at Eton House, Liverpool with her mother and sisters

28^th October, 1808, Friday

Mr W Roscoe, Dr P Brandreth called. Party to Mr Pools.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

[Page headed 'Glass' and three lines relating to glass making crossed out and page used for journal entry below.]

Saturday 29 October 1808:

Engaged with Dr Crompton relative to the Articles when some difficulty arising he took them to Eton. Went there myself on the Evening. Long Conversation & Discussion.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

29th October 1808, Saturday [page B103]
Edward, JSC, Emma and I dined at Burslem.

Les hommes en general souffrent encoure plus a vivre sans passions que les passions ne les fort souffrir. Aubos sur la poisie et al piatre.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell aged 17 at Charles Crompton's place, Eton House, Liverpool with her mother and sisters

29^th October, 1808, Saturday

Yates and Croppers dined. Papa to Eton

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 30 October 1808:

Messrs W & R Bent came to Eton when Articles finally settled & Executed. Set off on our Return & arrived at Linley Wood in the evening after a most anxious Journey, but by the reflection of the great Service that I believed myself to have done to the family of a friend.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

30th October 1808, Sunday
Parts[?] may be praised good nature is adored,
Then share your wit as seldom as your sword
And never on the weak, or you'll appear
As there no hero, no great genius here.
Young love of Rome [Fome?]

Who for the poor renown of being smart
Would leave a sting within a brothers heart
Ibid

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell aged 17 at the Cromptons place, Eton House, Liverpool with her mother and sisters

30^th October, 1808, Sunday

W Roscoe dined with us.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 31 October 1808:

Elizabeth & I called at Trentham on Lord & Lady Stafford.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

31st October 1808, Monday
My Aunt and the dear girls came home from Liverpool.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell aged 17

31^st October, 1808, Monday

Returned home, never was so sorry to leave a place in my life. Found Edward Crompton at Linley.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

November, [1808]

Tuesday 1^st November 1808:

At Stone attending Meeting of Select Committee.

Wednesday 2 November 1808:

Returned from Stone. Dined at Mr Bents there found Edward Crompton & 2 Bents. On our return found Mr Ashton Yates of Liverpool

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

Mr Ashton Yates came in the evening and a good natured but Oh! Manner, manner with thy ten thousand charms how much thou wert wanted!

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

2^nd November 1808, Wednesday

Mr A Yates came.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 3 November 1808:

Engaged on various matters in the Morning. In the Evening at Newcastle Assembly of which Stamford was Manager with Mrs Robinson

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

3rd November 1808, Thursday [page B104]
We all went to the Assembly except Mamma who was prevented by a fall she had in the morning, though far from being one of the gayest it was one of the happiest evenings I ever spent. I felt all the delight of being independent of everybody and never once felt flat or [surpassed?] all evening.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

3^rd November 1808, Thursday

Newcastle Assembly. Enjoyed myself beyond expression, clapped my [wigs? Rings?] and enjoyed my liberty one [proof, providing?] was that every partner was agreeable.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 4 November 1808:

At home. Long Walk. Mr Butt & Mr Blunt dined & staid all night.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

4th November 1808, Friday
Mr Butt dined. Mr A Y went in the evening. It being the day before JSC going to Edinburgh made us flat

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

4^th November 1808, Friday

Mr A Yates went. Mr Butt and Blunt dined here.

Forwardness joined to any one defect makes it most intolerable truly! He who stands in the light should be spotless. Backwardness is [vers?] almost all, he who is in the shade must have then very glaring to be perceived. A.L.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 5 November 1808:

Do. Finally settling with Moses Barlow about a . . . Lands laid to his farm. Rent of the whole £105

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

5th November 1808, Saturday
JSC set out for the North Country. Mr Butt left us.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

5^th November 1808, Saturday

JSC went toEdinburgh.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 6 November 1808:

Do.

Monday 7 November 1808:

Do. Intended going to Newcastle but prevented by the Arrival of Mr Henry Holland with whom engaged. Alcock who staid all night and in the Evening Musick.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

7th November 1808, Monday
Mr H Holland came.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

7^th November 1808, Monday

H. Holland came.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 8 November 1808:

Do. Long Walk over Alsager farm with Mr Holland & much Conversation with him on Agricultural Subjects particularly as related to Cheshire, Ireland His Survey &c. Mr Fourchiquour at dinner.

Wednesday 9 November 1808:

Mr Holland left us after Breakfast. At Newcastle with Mr Bent relative to Shrewsbury Affairs &c. from whence he returned with Mr Heathcote on Saturday. Also relative to Answer to be given to . . . Letter which I had received from Mr Hardman respecting Macclesfield Affairs. And also with Mr Martin in consequence of an information laid against Michael Ashmores two Sons & which was to be tried tomorrow at Madeley.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

9th November 1808, Wednesday
He left us. My Aunt Eliza and I went to Darlaston. Miss Morgan was there whom I thought more agreeable and handsome than ever.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

9^th November 1808, Wednesday

H. Holland went. During his stay conversation has certainly been more instructive than usual. Hannah Stamford, HSC, MC to Maer and Dorlaston.

Without the smile from partial beauty say what were man a world without a sun – Campbells Pleasures of Hope.

Transcription – ibid

There lies a lass of heaven directed mein,

Of cultured soul and sapient eye serene

Who hails thee man! the Pilgrim of a day

Spouse of the worm and brother of the clay

Frail as the leaf in Autumns yellow bower

Dust in the wind or dew upon the flower

A friendless child a slave without a sire

Whose mortal life and momentary fire

Lights to the grave his chance directed form

As ocean wrecks illuminate the storm

And when the guns tremendous flash is over

To night and silence sink for ever more

Ibid [Thomas Campbell]

continues

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 10 November 1808:

At home. Engaged on the farm. Jno. Beresford came to take the place of Peter MacDonald with whom I settled this day & who is to leave in the Morning. For various reasons thought it best not to attend the County Meeting held this day at Stafford.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

10th November 1808, Thursday
We all called at Mrs Robinsons. Had some merry company [camping?] in the evening.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

[Page headed 'Cobalt' with short entry about 'this earth'. Ruled off and journal continued underneath]

Friday 11 November 1808:

At home. Engaged on various matters. Farm &c. &c.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 19

11th November 1808, Friday
Left Darlaston and called upon Mrs Tollet on our road to Maer.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 12 November 1808:

At Burslem with Edward Crompton. Statement of Flint grinding Account shewn me by Mr Wood. Apparently profitable Undertaking. Mr Hall.

Diary of Mary Caldwell at the Wedgwoods, Maer.

12th November 1808, Saturday
Took a famous long walk. I read The Savage of Avignon which much interested me. It seems surprising to me that the soul and the body are so closely united that the latter being hardened by the effects of cold and climate so as to have none of its usual failings should so completely destroy all the faculties of the latter.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 13 November 1808:

At Home. In the Afternoon at Talk Chapel. Afterwards stating to Mr Hill what had been done by me in Mrs Tolletts Affairs & in the Security given to Mr Armistead &c. &c.

Diary of Mary Caldwell at the Wedgwoods, Maer.

13th November 1808, Sunday
Went to church.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 14 November 1808:

At home. Engaged in making various Arrangements with new Servant in the Stables &c. &c.

Diary of Mary Caldwell at the Wedgwoods, Maer

14th November 1808, Monday
I read the "Life of Corneille" the language of which I much admire but disapprove of the finishing of the plot as I think that twisting matters so as to make all happy at last destroys much of the effect produced by a fine tragedy.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 15 November 1808:

At Newcastle with Edward Crompton looking at Brewery from thence to Etruria

Burslem & Bradwall. Returned to dinner.

Diary of Mary Caldwell returned to Linley Wood.

15th November 1808, Tuesday [page B106]
Came home after having a most pleasant and sociable visit.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

15^th November 1808,

The girls and my Aunt returned home.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 16 November 1808:

At home. Mr & Mrs Jos. Wedgwood & Mr Wedgwood with whom engaged

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

16th November 1808, Wednesday
Mr and Mrs Jos Wedgwood and Mr and - Bailey came to dinner.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

16^th November 1808, Wednesday

Mr, Mrs Jos and Mr Wedgwood and Miss Janny Byerly dined Linley Wood. Mr N returned at night.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 17 November 1808:

Do. Mr Wood with whom & the Wedgwoods engaged.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

17th November 1808, Thursday
Mr Wedgwood went. I read part of Mathilde by Madame Cottin. I like it very much and think that it as well as Elizabeth is calculated to raise good feelings though the first is rather too romantic.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell

17^th November 1808, Thursday

Mr Wood dined.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 18 November 1808:

The Wedgwoods & Mr Wood left Linley. At Trentham dining with Mr Butt & all night.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

18th November 1808, Friday
They all left us. Papa went to dine with Mr Butt. Edward Crompton left us. We were all sorry to part with him.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

18^th November 1808, Friday

The Wedgwoods and Miss B left us. Edward Crompton left us.

Transcription – Edward Young’s Night Thoughts [1742]

[Ivid?] natures sweet restorer balmy sleep

He like the world his ready visit pays

Where fortune smiles the wretched he forsakes

Swift on his downey pinion flies from vae

And rests on lids unsullied by a tear

Young’s Night Thoughts

Continues

Judgment consists in having nice lines as the exact line between distance and familiarity &c for there is an exact line in everything and it is those people who hit these lines that pass through the world to the surprise of everybody with the approbation of everybody

Talent is steam, judgment is the power that regulates the steam and makes is useful

But he who really deserves the name of a poet must add to a greater promptness to think and feel and a greater power in expressing such thoughts and feelings, livelier sensibilities and greater enthusiasm and tenderness, another faculty we scarcely know how to name it that kind of fancy whim to wit which glancing from heaven to earth from earth to heaven pervading as it were the whole world of nature and of art snatches from each its beauteous images combines, adapts arranges them by a magic force of its own peoples with it its new creation and at length pours forth in one striking brilliant and harmonious whole. Ann Nevin

Mr Wordsworth doubtless possesses a reflective mind and a feeling heart but nature seems to have bestowed on him little of the fancy of a poet and a foolish theory deters him from displaying that little. In addition to this he appears to us to starve his mind in solitude. Hence the undue importance he attaches to trivial incidents and the unfortunate habit he has contracted of attaching exquisite emotions to objects that excite none in any other human breast

Ibid

He consiglio d’uosn sauo amoe ricive

Jasso

Page 18-19-20-22-23

French transcription, whole page and two blank pages

Page 23

Description of Marie Antoinette

By Edmund Bourke 1790

It is now sixteen years since I saw the Queen of France, then the Dauphiness at Versailles and surely never lighted on this orb which she scarcely touched a more delightful vision. I saw her just above the horizon decorating and cheering the elevated spheres she just began to move in, glittering like the morning star full of life and splendour joy. Oh! What a revolution and what a heart must I have to contain plate without emotion that elevation and full. Little did I dream that when she added titles of veneration to those of enthusiastic distant respectful love she should ever be obliged to carry the sharp antidote against disgrace concealed in her bosom, little did I dream that I should have lived to see such disasters fallen upon her in a nation of men of honour and of cavaliers. I thought ten thousand swords must have lept from their scabbards to avenge even a look that threatened her with insult but the age of chivalry is past. That of sophistors, recconomists and calculators has succeeded and the glory of Europe is languished for ever. Never, never more shall we behold that generous loyalty to rank and sex, that proud submission that dignified obedience, that subordination of the heart which kept alive even in servitude itself the spirit of an exalted freedom. The unbought grace of freedom. The cheap defence of nations, the [reverse?] of manly sentiment and heroic sentiment is gone! It is gone that sensibility of principle that chastity of honour which [left?] a stain like a wound which inspired courage whilst it mitigated ferocity, which enobled whatever it touched and under which vice itself loses half its evil by losing half it grossness.

Is that a true sentiment

It is better to write than to read one brings out your own ideas and the other puts other people’s in to your head. “The hunched headed worm that never dies”- Vanity

Continues

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 19 November 1808:

Returned to dinner. Engaged perusing papers on the reference of matters in dispute between Mr Tomlinson & Mr E Mayer to Sr. Jno Heathcote & Mr Stevenson as Arbitrators & myself as a third person agreed upon by both the parties.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

19th November 1808, Saturday
Ah quand c'est avec cet entiere abandon de comm qu'on se donne a Dieu, rarement laisse tit aller ses enfants sans avoir respondu sur eux cette grace qui ranime le courage, bannit la tristesse, chasse la crainte noruit la pictre, et produit les larmes.
Mathilde de Madame Cottin.

Mathilde ne songeia paint que c'est ainsi qu'en negligeant de conter tous les pas qu'on fait dans la carriere de la seduction, et que se rassasant sur tous ceux qu'on fait encore, par la certitude de ne pas aller plus avant, our est entraine par une peute insensible jusqu'au fond de ce graffu des passions humaines, on il n'y a de choix qu'entre la mort et la monte
Ibid

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 20: At home. Service as usual

Monday 21 November 1808:

At Newcastle meeting Mr E Mayer on the business of the reference,. Long Conversation with Mr Bent on various matters. Returned to dinner. Alcock. In the Evening Musick.

Tuesday 22 November 1808:

At home. Engaged with papers relative to the Reference appointed for tomorrow. Also on the Farm. Mr Fourchiquour

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

22nd November 1808, Monday
Mr de F
Oh Amitie! S'ecne Malek Adhel, que tes larmes sont donces et que tes sentiments sont grands. In vois ce ciel qui est au dessus de nos tetes, reprerd Raled, eh bien l'amitie d'un homme tel que toi eleve le Coeur bien plus part encore.
Ibid

La mort toute grave, tout solennelle qu'elle est, ne repousse donc pas l'amour, et il sait venir se placer jusque sur un ceroneil: enfant de la melancolie bien plus que de la joie, jamais ses feux ne sont plus ardents que quand il les allume dans des yeux noyes de pleurs, et ce n'est que nourir par la tristesse qu'il peut etre eternal ainsi l'amour, cette prete ses laimes, le plaisir le dissippe le rende leger comme lui, semplace par de fugitives jouissances les longnes et profandes emotions, et semplit l'aime d'un vide plus difficile a supporter que le Malheur. L'etranger penchant du Coeur de l'homme, qui lui fait trouver plus de donceur dans une situation ou il jouit pen et ou il espere beaucoup, que dans celle ou, rapasie de biens, il n'a plus de voeux a former etrange penchant ou effect, s'il n'etoit la prenne de sa glorieuse destination Jete sur la terre pour exercer des vatries et en reconcillir le fruit, il n'y doit mones&ldots; Mathilde.
Transcription continues page B110 to B116

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 23 November 1808:

At Newcastle attending Reference. Agreed upon Award. detained late & I dined at the Roebuck

Thursday 24 November 1808:

At home. Engaged arranging various papers &c & in farm.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

24th November 1808, Thursday
Anne and I at Newcastle with Mamma and Aunt.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Page 49

[Page headed 'Alkaline fixed Salt' with various notes on the subject. Ruled off and journal continued underneath]

Friday 25 November 1808:

At home. Engaged in arrangements of Papers Letters &c. &c.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

25th November 1808, Friday
Mamma's birthday. I finished Mathilde which is certainly a very interesting book but I think Madame Cottin has been too considerate of the feelings of her readers at the close of her book. It is very far from raising the common romantic feelings of ordinary novels if those which it excites are romantic, and I fear they are now seldom to be met with, in common life. It is romance of the most noble and amiable kind. They are the feelings of generosity [pace?] friendship and religion in its more pleasing and useful kind. I may say useful as it is that which pacifies the heart of its most restless passions and displays at once the delights of innocence and peace of mind. Allowances must of course be made in this part of the work for spirit of the times as well as the spirit of the Catholic religion which may be traced in many parts of the book. It has had the effect upon me of making me make resolutions to cultivate the most generous and religious feelings and I hope I shall succeed by dint of exertion and in course of time.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 26 November 1808:

Do. Looking over the farm with Thomas Henshall & advising with him as to various alterations & improvements in the management of it. Engaged great part of the day.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

26th November 1808, Saturday [page B118]
I began to read Weber's "Life of Marie Antoinette." I fear it must be a partial one written by her foster brother.
"It is now" said the immortal Bach in 1790 "sixteen or eighteen years since I saw the Queen of France, then the Dauphiness, at Versailles, and surely never lighted on this orb, which she hardly seemed to touch, a more delightful vision. I saw her just above the Morison, decorating and cheering the elevated sphere she just began to move in, glittering like the morning star, full of life, and splendour, and joy. Oh! What a revolution! And what an heart must I have, to contemplate without emotion that elevation and fall! Little did I dream, that when she added titles of veneration to those of enthusiastic, distant, respectful love, she should ever be obliged to carry the sharp antidote against disgrace concealed in that bosom, little did I dream that I should have lived to see such disasters fallen upon her in a nation of gallant men, in a nation of men of honour and cavaliers. I thought ten thousand from their scabbards to avenge even a look that threatened her with insult. But the age of chivalry is gone. That of sophisters, economists, and calculators has succeeded, and the Glory of Europe is extinguished for ever. Never, never more, shall we behold that generous loyalty to cant and sex, that proud submission, that dignified obedience, that subordination of the heart, which kept alive, even in servitude itself, the spirit of an exalted freedom. The unbought grace of life, the cheap defence of nations, the nurse of man by sentiments, and heroic enterprise, is gone! It is gone, that sensibility of principle, that chastity of honour, which felt a stain like a wound, which inspired courage whilst it mitigated ferocity, which ennobled whatever it touched, and under which vice itself lost half it evil, by losing all it grossness.
Weber "Memoirs of Marie Antoinette."

La generositie la pusete des prinapes et la chaitace de charactere gagnent les coeurs Presque plus qu'anonnes autres qualities. Prens toutes les occasions qui se presentment pour les monter, et plus encore pour les fixer et les incorporer dans notre Coeur.
MC.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 27 November 1808:

At home. Service as usual

Monday 28 November 1808:

At Burslem with Eliza. Mr Alcock

Tuesday 29 November 1808:

At home

Wednesday 30 November 1808:

At home. In the Evening Mr Fritche

December, [1808]

Thursday 1^st December 1808:

At home

Friday 2 December 1808:

Mr Penlington & Mr William Penlington dined, settling Acct of Rents &c. &c. also Mr Wood & Enoch

Saturday 3 December 1808:

At home. Charles Tollett J Atkinson, & Charles Wedgwood from Artbury

Sunday 4 December 1808:

At home. Service as usual

Monday 5 December 1808:

Do.

Tuesday 6 December 1808:

At Stone attending Meeting of Select Committee

Wednesday 7 December 1808:

Do. Returned late at night

Thursday 8 December 1808:

At Newcastle. Brewery affairs. Newcastle Shrewsbury Macclesfield &c. previous to Mr B going to Shrewsbury

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

8th December 1808, Thursday
Anne, Emma, Louisa and I went to Burslem.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Friday 9 December 1808:

At home very unwell & confined to the House.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

9^th December 1808, Saturday

Burslem. Sent to fetch three little boys from Astbury, C Tollet, J Atkinson, C Wedgwood.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 10 December 1808:

Do. Do

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

10th December 1808, Saturday
Anne and I called upon Mrs Wedgwood at Etruria.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 11 December 1808:

Do. Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

11th December 1808, Sunday
We all went to Etruria to dinner and stayed all night there.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

11 December 1808, Sunday

A charming day at Etruria where MC, MEC, LC and myself [watched?] from

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 12 December 1808:

Do. Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

12th December 1808, Monday
Came home

Mathiled sort de la grotte, et an moment on ses yeux de'converent a l'Orient le golfe Arabique, elle demeuse eblonait du spectacle qu'il presente. Les riches teintes de pauper, de violet et d'aurore dont le rich eclate, a demi plongees dans la mer y replechissent leurs teintes adircies.
French Transcription continues.

12th December 1808, Monday [page B124]
While I was at Burslem I saw Hogarth's pictures. They certainly display great imagination but I must say I have more pleasure in viewing the beauties than the deformities of nature. Owing to most of the pieces being very much crowded your attention is kept on the full stretch all the time so that it is quite impossible to look at them for a very long time together for the mind is as much fatigued with seeing great numbers of pictures or hearing fine music as with any other exercise.

Might be diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

12 December 1808, Monday

The little boys went.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 13 December 1808:

Do. Do. Mr Fourchiquour

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

13th December 1808, Tuesday
Mr de Fouchecour came to pay his last visit. He intends to set out for London next week.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 14 December 1808:

Do. Do. Do. Just walked out for the first time. Mr Wood who staid all night

Thursday 15 December 1808:

At Newcastle. Brewery Concerns

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

15th December 1808, Thursday
I called with Mamma at Basford &c.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Page 50

[Page headed 'Prints' with comments underneath. Journal continued below]

Friday 16 December 1808:

At home. Mr Fourchiquour left us to the great regret of all parties having through a communication of more than four years always conducted himself with the utmost attention to his business of Instruction as well as with the most respectful & Gentlemanly Conduct of behaviour.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

16th December 1808, Friday
Mr de Fouchecour left us. He has attended us nearly five years and by his gentlemanly conduct has sufficiently proved that his rank was good before the revolution. I was much more sorry to part with him than I expected but I think it is not in our natures to part from those we have been long accustomed to without feelings of regret.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Saturday 17 December 1808:

At Newcastle. Settling with Mr Smith various Legacy duties &c. Heavy Fall of Snow.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

17^th December 1808, Saturday

Rode to Newcastle with JC. MC. MEC, it snowed on, ne croisoit pas l’emotion que je sentail en recognu la neige il me reppelait la neige de l’Aspenible et je retraicois tous les emotions de cette soiree. Qu’on doit reglar bien ses sentiments quand elles sont si ineffacables.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Sunday 18 December 1808:

At Home. Mr Skerrett in the Evening

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

18th December 1808, Sunday
My Uncle came. Very cold frost.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

18^th December 1808, Sunday

My Uncle came.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 19 December 1808

Mr & Mrs Tollet Mr & Mrs Jos. Wedgwood & Mr Skerrett dined

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

19th December 1808, Monday
Mr and Mrs Tollet, Mr and Mrs Jos Wedgwood and Miss Hemmings came to dinner.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

19^th December 1808, Monday

Tollets Jas, Wedgwoods and Miss Heming dined and staid all night. Gay Hoo.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Tuesday 20 December 1808:

Our friends left us. Again very unwell

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

20th December 1808, Tuesday
They all left us. Mrs Jos Wedgwood took Anne along with her.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

20^th December 1808, Tuesday

I went to Maer with Mrs Jos, called at Etruria on my way thither.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 21 December 1808;

So much ill as to be in Bed the greater part of the Day. Snow Cold, with great Oppression. Snow

Diary of Mary Caldwell - aged 19

21st December 1808, Wednesday
My Aunt and Eliza went to Etruria. Heavy snow.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Thursday 22 December 1808:

Do. Do. Heavy Snow

Friday 23 December 1808:

Do. Rather better but still very unwell. Invitation from Lord & Lady Stafford to all the family to dine at Trentham on Wednesday next

Saturday 24 December 1808:

Do.

Sunday 25 December 1808:

Do. Mr Martin on various matters

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

25^th December 1808, Sunday

Miss S Wedgwood came to Maer.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Monday 26 December 1808:

At Newcastle in the Carriage. Brewery. Various matters Macclesfield &c.

Tuesday 27 December 1808:

Set off with Mr Thomas Sparrow to Brockton. Arrived there to dinner. Kind & Hospitable Reception.

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell - aged 17

27^th December 1808, Tuesday

Miss S Wedgwood returned home. I never had so much of her company before and never was so sensible of its value.

Diary of James Caldwell - aged 49

Wednesday 28 December 1808:

At Brockton. Weather being bad much Conversation & pleasant day.

Thursday 29 December 1808:

From Brockton to Lichfield attending Genl. Assembly of G T Canal & Meeting Delegates from various Canal Companies to consider of the best means of checking the pilferage on Canals, which had be come(sic) an alarming . . .[E.d] perusing Resolutions entered into. Came in the Evening to Wolesley Lodge

Page 51

[Page headed 'Drawing' plus notes. Then further heading 'Landscape Painting' with notes continuing for more than half a page. Finally ruled off and journal continued underneath]

Friday 30 December 1808:

Being again very unwell prevented stopping at Stoneyfields as I had proposed doing to consider & arrange various matters previous to my intended Journey to Macclesfield next week, & arrived at home to dinner.

Saturday 31 December 1808:

Still unwell & in the House all day. The last of a year, in the course of which, from various Conversations my mind & spirits have been kept in an almost unceasing state of painful & anxious Agitation, & the Conveyance of which I have for more than a fortnight past seriously & to myself alarmingly experienced. I have the consciousness, however, of having therefore on the whole endeavoured to do what was right in respect to all Persons & all things. And this is my Consolation & Reward.

Inserted between pages 417/418

[Much crossing out, insertions, writing in the margin etc. The writing is very spidery and almost illegible in places so I have not been able to make much sense of it. I suspect it was the draft of either a letter, an observation on something he read or a sermon for use in the home. Alternatively is it the result of a conversation with Mr Fourchiquour?]

In the state of France however a great change has taken place. Her Government instead of being founded upon a set of theoretical maxims or spreading in dogmatic legislations rests upon the practical strength of the executive power & under its authority. The ancient religion has been newly established. To what consequences may not this lead? Do we not assess all this unlikely two main principles on which the ancient Monarchy rested, restored & in full force as before connected. So it is therefore probable that after suffering for a while the wills arising from the struggles of aspiring and contending factions. France will find by letting the possessor of . . . . . . . . . at last her tranquillity & happiness best secured by to soon into . . . hereditary; and the office of Chief Consul be considered . . . at this moment as better established in France than that of Protector was in England in that the restoration of Monarchy was not as our time to be as well expected in the latter, as it might at first appear to be in the former?

In spirit much relatively reigned that . . . sums to have away, & . . . & manners to have taken much . . . . . . so ???????? affairs to after

Diary of Anne Marsh-Caldwell

31^st December 1808, Saturday

Returned home from a charming visit to a place where I have been leader of the revels to the sweetest children in the world. At first I was not quite at lose but in a short time I was able to enjoy the society of Mr and Mrs [W?] in full perfection for I became quite domesticated.

When was my friend I’d have past you in past

But roasted like coffee your quite to my taste

The blink of a bad eye they tell me to flee

Tis the glance of a blithe one that’s danger to me

Anne Caldwell ‘Eyes’

How much we’re deceived when we judge you

To look at his face one should think the man wise

Recollect my fair lady so bright blithe and gay

That a flirt and a butterfly live but a day.

Play the part of a woman as well as you can

Still your manner and brains are those of a man

Without beauty or wit or fortune to tell

As a dormiere refrost once the girl comes out a belle.

Raise your eyes from the ground my fair dame [I desire]

You may safely look round they’ll set no one on fire.

What pity those manners that grace and those parts

Are used but as baits to catch silly girls hearts.

That your hair is your own you’ve no wig in it stead

Need you always be proving by shaking your head

Your various charms t’is generous to display

The certain means to take their power away.

Your eyes they dazzle and don’t charm my fair

Like summer rains they do not shine but glare

Linley Wood Jane 7 1809.

When girls first enter into life it is very natural that they should feel a preference for some one and it is a foolish and romantick notion that they are in love.

Mrs Wedgwood.

Le amoins je crois qu’on doit redouter un tel sentiment simple preference est bien dangerous sourtout pour une fille d’une Coeur ardent on ne s’en defie pas on ne resiste a ce dans sentiment qui s’impose de l’aime alors on est veritablement amorous et qu’importe de le cacher n’est ce pas meme muisible? Car des qu’on le croit amour on s’en epouvante on rouy it et on finit par le vainae.

Je me trouve a M, dans une situation nouvelle j’etais age c’etoit la premiere fois que j’avois ete absent sans une de ma famille ceci me contrary wit un pen et me rendent un peu plus gave quand – mais dans pen je m’accoutu mois a ma situation et j’etus aussi gai qu’a l’ordineire. C’est une chose bien utile pour une jeune personne que ditre san appui on a si rarement l’occasion dans une grandpa mille de juger entierement pour soi que j’aime sa caratese charmante qui n’est compose que de boute tout east bon en elle bon humour, bon natural &c. Chaque mot chague regard respent de cette bonte charmante inspirant la confiance et l’affection n’est ce pas une femme Presque parfaite cette douceur si gai si tenche qui parle dans ses charmante yeux qui sourit dans s’a joli bouche si occupy de ses enfans si desvieux de leur chagner la moinche peine et ses moeurs si simple, son Coeur qui comme son teins pasort avoit ete oublie par le templs et conserve toute la candeur de la jeauness EA. Ajoutex a tout ci a les qualites de fermete d’utilite de constance et vous voyez la feme la plus parfaite vous voyez ma mere.

What is it that renders my mother the most perfect of women. It is because she has every quality we look for in woman and she has no one in extreme! I cannot now recollect one single quality of which I think she has not just right, she has even to the little weaknesses so infinitely attractive in women but she has not one of them beyond just what is enough to render her charming. Is she faultless, no and merely because it is impossible and had I now the power by a word to mend a defect in her do I know one to cure. No surely there is not a single trait in her character that I would even wish to modify. And yet she is seen every day and people [rejoice?] not this excess of everything amiable as a prodigy, she is so made to be useful every day that one forgets how high in the scale of human beings she stands. But when for a moment I stand still to look at her actions to admire her qualities I am astonished how such an angel became my mother. And only I am so much happier than the rest of the world in the possession of such a friend.

Page 35

I write more confusedly on this subject than upon any other, there is so much crowds upon my mind to express that I never know which deserves to be mentioned first.

She has the art of making masculine qualities feminine and appropriating them to herself.

I find it a very good habit to write down my thoughts as they occur for an idea often strikes me which by turning to some thing else I forget immediately but considering it even so much as is necessary to write it down makes me more acquainted with the subject and makes me thoughts my own. For want of some such plan I see people dreaming away their lives in inactivity of mind without forming any opinion of their own till from paying no attention to their thoughts they learn not to think at all.

Miss Smith.

Page 36

Certainly the greatest pleasure on this side Heaven lies in an even and serene a calm composed and steady mind which is inwardly at rest and by consequence at leisure to enjoy all outward comforts: which hopes the best and is prepared for the worst enjoys the present and is not anxiously concerned for the future. Such a temper of mind is the greatest blessing God can bestow because it gives a relish to all other blessings and therefore the greatest folly a man can be guilty of is to part with it upon any account and to quit a certain tranquility now out of a vain fear of being robbed of it some time or other

Attenbery

French transcription. – La religion. . .

Page 37

It is true our thanks are really as insignificant to God as any other return would be in themselves indeed they are worthey but his goodness hath put a value upon them he hath declared that he will accept them in hin of the vast debt we owe, and after which is fittest for us to dispute how they come to be [taken?] as an equivalent or to pay the.

Noble objects are to the mind what the sun beams are to a bud or flower, they open and unfold as it were the leaves of it put it upon exerting and spreading itself every way and call forth all those powers that he did and locked up in it

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