Michael D.Heath-Caldwell M.Arch.

1824

Hannah Stamford of Linley Wood - 70/71 

Anne Caldwell of Nantwich - 65/66 

Elizabeth Caldwell (Bessy) of Nantwich -  57/58 

James Caldwell of Linley Wood - 64/65 

Elizabeth Caldwell (ne Stamford) of Linley Wood - 69/70 

Hannah Eliza Roscoe - age 38/39           - daughter of James and Elizabeth C.

James Stamford Caldwell - age - 37/38  - son of James and Elizabeth C.

Margaret Emma Holland - age - 31/32    - daughter of James and Elizabeth C.

Arthur Cuthbert Marsh - age 37/38   (London)

Anne Marsh-Caldwell – age 32/33 (Lady Mary’s mother)(Londonj)

Eliza Louisa Marsh-Caldwell – known as Louisa –  age 5/6 

Frances Mary Crofton (ne Marsh) - age 4/5

Georgina Amelia Marsh-Caldwell – Gies – age 3/4

Rosamond Marsh-Caldwell – Posy -0/1

 

Diary of James Caldwell at Linley Wood

Page 115.  1824  January

Thursday 1^st January 1824

Engaged on Accounts.  Wrote to Mr. Chetwynd.  Mr. Hill the Parish Officer called, when I informed him that I had given Notice to Hannah Wilding to quit at Lady Day.  Rain & wind but rode out upon the Farm.  In the evening Letters from Col. . . .& Mr. Vaughan.

Friday 2^nd January 1824

At home.  Engaged again on annual Accounts.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan.  Miss Tollet, & Miss Eliza called on their return from Astbury where they had been attending yesterday the opening of a new organ in the church presented by Sir Edmund Antrobus.  In the evening received Brewery Papers from Wm. Bent.

Saturday 3 January 1824

Engaged perusing papers received last night from Wm. Bent.  Agreed with Thomas Alcock for 57 weeks some service at £27, he to find his own clothes, etc. etc.  Dr. Northam & Mr. Davenport to consult on Eliza's indisposition.  When the former assessed his strong hope that it was not of any serious nature., but if it had not . . . shortly to the decisions presented, he would write to Dr. Holland.  Afterwards rode out on horseback, the day being remarkably mild and fine.  Stamford went to Lawton Hall to dinner, & to spend a day or two.

Sunday 4 January 1824

At home.  Service.  Wm. & Rowland Bent came to dinner, with whom considered the State of the Brewery Concern at Newcastle, & the . . .made of dividing into Lots & disposing of the property, it appearing to be proper to put an end to the business.  I promised to call upon Mr. Ward in a day or two.  Mr. Bent proposed my joining him in the Brewery at Macclesfield for which he said that a Capital of £4000 would be sufficient & that he would advance me £2000.  This I said that I would consider of, and give an answer to.

Monday 5 January 1824

At home.  Engaged on various matters & papers.  Remarkably fine mild day.  Daniel Johnson who said £101.12 on account.  In the evening Letter from Mr. Chetwynd requesting me procure the attendance of Mr. Bateman & Mr. Fenton at Stone on the 19 instant.

Page 116.  January  1824

Tuesday 6 January 1824

At home.  Engaged on various matters.  Halls Account etc.

Wednesday 7 January 1824

At Newcastle.  Calling upon Miss Fenton in consequence of the Letter received from Mr. Chetwynd, & proposing a meeting of all Parties at Stone on the . . ., when Mr. N. Fenton said, that they had written to Mr. Bateman to enquire whether he would accept my Title shortage strictly legal one, & till that was known no appointment could be made. 

Called upon Mr. Sparrow relative to old Account with Eardleys Executors.  Afterwards at the Brewery relative to the intended Sale of the Buildings etc. & to have met Mr. Ward, who was not at home when I arrived, but came to me to the Roebuck & also approved of what I had suggested as to the division of the Lots. 

Dined at Lawton Hall.  Eliza staying at home.  Revd. E Powys & Stamford & some young relative.

Thursday 8 January 1824

.At home.  Wrote to Mr. Chetwynd.  Farm,& other matters.

Friday 9 January 1824

Wrote to Mr. Marsh, & appointed Tuesday week next for seeing him at Linley Wood on Matters Reference, Mr. Fenton paying his Rent.  Mr. Hood relative to the Memorial of the Lime Barrows at Lawton etc. & to whom I communicated the order of the Select Committee, alluding a redirection of 1st in the Tonnage of Stone from Caldon Lowe for 1 year from . . .1824.  Miss Stamford called at Parkfields Eliza being prevented by her indisposition. Stamford came from Lawton Hall to dinner.

Saturday 10 January 1824

Engaged on Minutes of the last Meeting of the Select Committee correcting & copying the same & afterwards writing therewith to Mr. Vaughan. Dr. Northam & afterwards Mr. Davenport.  . . .& Cope.  Rain all day.

Sunday11 January 1824

At home.  Service.  Mild Frost.

Monday 12 January 1824

After breakfast went to Newcastle.  Conference with Mr. Ward at the Brewery relative to the Advertisement for Sale of the Brewery when he promised to send a Draft for my perusal & consideration.  Agreed with Wm. Bent & Mr. Ward for the purchase of . . .

Page 117  1824

January12 January 1824

Byerley House & the Freehold & Leasehold Land laid to it as per Plan at the sale of £575 for the whole, my share to be taken as part of the sum of £600 owing to me from the concern, being the Money advanced to pay off Dantry & Crescent.  Paid various Tradesmen's Christmas Accounts at Newcastle.  Subscribed at Co. Societies, Ten Guineas towards the National School intended to be corrected at Newcastle.  Returned to dinner.  Fine mild frost.

Tuesday 13 January 1824

At home.  Received from Wm. Bent the Draft of the proposed . . . with the Plans etc. which I perused & considered.  Mr. Marsh came pursuant to Appointment on the Reference to one of the matter between Mr. Mellor & the Stewards of Audley Friendly Society; when I fully explained to him the legal grounds on which I hold myself compelled to decide in favour of the Society, though I considered it a case of great hardship & said that I should represent it accordingly to the Stewards. 

Revd. Mr. Mainwaring afterwards called.  Wrote to Mr. Tomlinson on the Lawton business & informing him that Mr. Williams had not got back from Counsel, the Case, on which an Opinion was to be taken as to the private Agreement, and of which Mr. . . had informed me.

Wednesday 14 January 1824

At home.  Engaged perusing again & settling the Drafts of the Advertisements received from Mr. Bent, previous to my taking them to Newcastle tomorrow finally to arrange the same with Mr. Ward.  Afterwards engaged on the Farm.  Stamford set off to Stafford Sessions.  In the evening Mr. Davenport.

Thursday 15 January 1824

Went to Newcastle & finally settled with Mr. Ward, with whom I was engaged a considerable time, the Drafts of the Advertisement etc.  Saw Mr. R. Fenton, who said they had not yet heard from Mr. Bateman.  Paid sundry Tradesmen's Bills.  On my return, found Mrs. Wedgwood of Mare & Elizabeth who dined & staid all night.  Dr. & Mrs. & Miss Northam also called, the former of whom who I met with the Party on my way home, gave me the grateful assurance that my beloved wife was certainly better.

Page 118.  1824  January

Friday 16 January 1824

At home.  Engaged rephrasing & reconsidering the Articles & Affidavit left with me by Mr. Marsh, previous to making my Award.  Miss Sarah Wedgwood called: & went from here with Mrs. Wedgwood to Maer Hall.  Engaged on sundry Papers, & afterwards on the Farm.  Fine mild Frost.

Saturday 17 January 1824

At home.  Stamford returned from Stafford Sessions.

Sunday 18 January 1824

At home.  Service.

Monday 19 January 1824

At Stone attending Meeting of the Select Committees & took Mr. Sparrow with me from Newcastle.  Closely engaged in business with Mr. Chetwynd & Mr. Lister took dinner & in the evening with Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Lister having left us, being unwell.

Tuesday 20 January 1824

Engaged again with Mr. Vaughan, Mr. Lander etc. on various matters.  Came to Newcastle proposing to attend the court & afterwards dine with the Mayor, it being the Sessions, but finding that there was no business of consequence, & being . . . at home I excused myself with the Mayor & got home to dinner.  Found that my ever dear Eliza had undergone the cussing as recommended by Dr. Holland.

Wednesday 21 January 1824

I this day completed the 65th year of my age.  Engaged on Navigation papers & other matters.

Thursday 22 January 1824

At home.  Navigation Papers, & wrote to Mr. Telford.

Friday 23 January 1824

At Trentham Inn attending Deputy Lieutenancy Meeting for receiving Lists & having Moderation Appeals, a busy day there being a crowd of people.  Mr. Brown & Mr. Booth also attended.  Stamford set off to London.

Saturday 24 January 1824

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Chetwynd on Stamford's account.  Looked with Samuel Beardmore at the draining water Prospect Hill in Holditch's field which we had begun a few days ago.  A very considerable quantity of water discharged from the Sand, which lies upon a red Rock.

Page 119.  1824  January

Sunday 25 January 1824

At home.  Service.

Monday 26 January 1824

At home.  Engaged on Navigation Minutes & copying the same for entry in the Book.  Afterwards engaged on the Farm.  Began draining the small croft behind the Garden.  The Men who were draining in Holditch's field had come to a hard Stone which yielded much water, & I directed them to go through it.

Tuesday 27 January 1824

At home.  In military language you always describe the County by the Current of water, and speak as if you are looking down the drain.  Note, in Southeys Peninsular War.  Richard Crowder called to make an offer of contracting for part of the new Tunnel, when after some conversation with him I told him that I would speak to Mr. Potter tomorrow.

Wednesday 28 January 1824

Mr. Wedgwood of Bignall End, paying half a year's interest of £1150.0.0 which became due the 19th of November last & entered at the same time his coal Account to Christmas last.  Mr Potter called relative to the Tunnel & other matters.  Settled with him the draft of an Advertisement to be printed, for proposals for contracting & executing the open cutting.  Afterwards went with him to the Tunnel mouth & revised such cutting as now set out.. Saw Mr. Gray & mentioned to him that the Committee were desirous that a few Bricks should be made by one of the Parties who have sent proposals for contracts, in order that they might be brick, previous to any final contract being made.  On my return home having Storm of Snow & Sleet.  Mrs. Wedgwood of Betley & Jesse came to dinner.

Thursday 29 January 1824

Went to Newcastle & called at Miss . . .in pursuance of the request of the Select Committee, to propose an enlargement of the time for carrying into executions the Agreement with Mr. Bateman, which Mr. Fenton approved, & promised to prepare improvement to be put upon the back of the articles. Returned to dinner.

Friday 30 January 1824

Wrote to Mr. Chetwynd.  Mrs. Wedgwood & Jesse went at noon.  Mr. Latham relative to Talk Appreciation, whom I recommended the same advertisement which had been presented some time ago at Burslem.

Page 120.  1824  January

Saturday 31 January 1824

Called at Rode Heath, with Navigation Receipt to be signed by Mr. Penlington & afterwards consultation in respect to his affairs, & particularly the Sale of Proudlove's Estate when he said that he would make an offer of it to Mr. . . .at £5000.  If that was not accepted, he wished the Mortgage to be paid off.  Afterwards called upon the Revd. Mr. Mainwaring.  In the evening Letter from Mr. Telford.

February 1824.

Sunday 1^st February 1824

At home.  Service.

Monday 2 February 1824

At Sandbach attending Turnpike Meeting.  I subscribed £100 towards a proposed improvement of the Road between Challis Hall & Lawton Gate Returned to dinner.  In the evening Letter from Mrs. Chetwynd, Mr. Chetwynd ill.  Enclosing Letter from Mr. Lister relative to the company consenting to a Bridge being made over the Canal in the Parish of Alewas being the line of now intended new Turnpike Road.  Before going to Sandbach sold the Chaise to Mr. Mellor at 58.

Tuesday 3 February 1824

At home.  Engaged drawing Form of consent to the above Bridge, & wrote therewith to Mr. Chetwynd.  Afterwards engaged on the Farm etc.

Wednesday 4 February 1824

Mr Latham & Mr. J. Done consulting relative tto the proposed Talk Association for the prosecution of Felons etc.  Afterwards Mr. Slater with whom received the line of intended Road between Linley Lane & the Hollins, when he promised to stake out the same as I proposed in order that I might then view it again.  Afterwards rode to Lawton Heath & Chales Hall receiving the course of the intended improvement of the Sandbach Road.  Busy on the Farm carrying out spreading Manure on the Ground before the House: & finished the draining in the Meadow behind the Farm Garden.

Thursday 5 February 1824

Went to Betley to have seen Mr. Twemlow relative to the proposed Culvert through the Land of the late Sir John Boughey, for re-conveying water out of the Stoke Level into the Caldon Canal, but Mr. Twemlow was not at home.  Saw Mrs. Fletcher, & Miss M. Twemlow.  Called & sat a while at the Wedgwood's.  Called at Betley Hall, but they were all away from home.  As I was going to Betley met Mr. Slack, to whom I delivered the Audley Friendly Society Contracts, & the Affidavit on the matters of Theoph. Mellor, which he had left for my consideration, and at the same time communicated to him my final decision that the friends of Mellor had no claim upon the Funds of the Society, he having met his death while in an unlawful pursuit & contrary to the Articles. Mr. . . . proposed himself perfectly satisfied with my determination. 

Very fine day.  Mr. Allen Booth relative to the final Settlement of Halls Contract which I fixed for Friday the 13 at Newcastle.

Friday 6 February 1824

Met Mr. Potter & Mr. Vaughan at at Etruria Locks receiving the Locks & the Attention as now commenced.  Consulting also with Mr. Vaughan on several matters.  On my way to Etruria called at the Burrows & upon Mr. Ward, relative to the Brewery Concerns etc. and on return called at Mr. Sparrows to inform him that Friday the 13 was fixed for Halls business, but he was out.  Miss Sparrow however saying that she had no doubt that he would be at home, on that day.  I called at Allen Booth's & told him that he might fix Tuesday as with Mr. Ellison.  Received from Mr. Eardley. Mr. Barley & Mr. Heatons Accounts in Martins collecting References.

Saturday 7 February 1824

At home.  Received Letter from Col. Tryon enclosing one to him from Mr. Locket relative to the small piece of Canal in Linley Lane.  Wrote Letters in the morning to Mr. Delmar & Mr. Tomlinson.

Sunday 8 February 1824

At home.  Service.  A right faith is wholly in order to a good life and is of no value any further than it hath influences upon it.  Tillotson.  Acts 10.38 'Who went about doing good'.

Monday 9 February 1824

Went to Sandbach & attended Meeting of the Trustees of the Talk & Span Smithy Turnpike Road.  Proceeded thence with Mr. Ford, the Revd. Mr. . . .& Mrs Morris & the Surveyor Mr. . . .to view another line which had been suggested by myself & others beginning at the Aquaduct, and which upon walking over we approved.  An order was made for a Plan and Estimate of the expense of making it. Mr. Ford accompanied me back on the Carriage to Linley Wood to collect the line of the intended Road from Linley Lane to the Hollins which he had not before seen.

Tuesday 10 February 1824

Mr. Ward of Newcastle sent his Clerk to copy the Mortgage Deal in Mrs. Tollets Affairs, which he accordingly did & I afterwards examined the material parts, & particularly the parcels with him, previous to sending the same to Mr. Prickett who had requested to be furnished with such Copy. 

Afterwards engaged with Mr. Slater, setting out the line of Road through my Grounds from Linley Lane to the Hollins.  From thence went to Chesterton & called at Mr. Benjamin Eardley's to have settled with him my share of the expenses of Foxholes Colliery& Furnace, but he away from home I left the money with his clerk.  Mr. Mellor weighed the Cheese, & paid for 33 cw. at 50/- the remainder to be purchased & paid for about Lady day.  Mr. Skerrett, Ann & Betsy came to dinner.

Wednesday 11 February 1824

Mr. Vaughan came to breakfast on his return from Runcorn, & with whom afterwards engaged a considerable time on Navigation business. Delivered to him the Minutes of the last Meeting for Entry in the Book.  Afterwards engaged with Mr. Skerrett.  Miss Stamford & I dined at Dr. Northam's. Met Mrs. Mills.

Thursday 12 February 1824

At home.  Mr. Skerrett etc.

Friday 13 February 1824

Went to Newcastle to meet Mr. Ellison of Nantwich settling & paying Balance of Principal & Interest due from the late Partnership of Sparrow & Caldwell on account of Hales Talk on the Hill Brief Money, Land . . .left on their hands.  Called at Mr. Fenton's Office & left with Mr. R. Fenton, the Draft of the Extra work to be put on the back of the Articles for enlarging the time for carrying the Navigation Co. Agreement with Mr. Bateman into appeal.  Proceeded to Cliffe Ville to confer with Mr. Tomlinson on the Land tax Business, when we agreed that he should write again to Mr. Williams, signifying very disappointment at any further delay & urging that the Application to Parliament might be made this Session.

Saturday 14 February 1824

At home.  Engaged in various matters.  Viewed the line of new Branch Road above Beardmores as marked out by Mr. Slater & which I found to be directly contrary to the Act of Parliament, and which by particularly stipulation on my part, requires the Barn to be lifted at a distance of not less than 37 yards from the north side of the new Branch Road,which it is now left a little more than 25 yards.  Wrote to Mr. Slater thereon.  Wrote to Mr. Chetwynd in reply to a Letter received from him last night.

Sunday 15 February 1824

At home.  Service.  Wrote afresh & sent Letter by Post to Mr. Chetwynd.

Monday 16 February 1824

Sent Letter to Mr. Slater by Mary Bickerton.  This morning light Snow.  Engaged on various matters.  Mr. Skerrett etc.

Page 123.  February  1824

Tuesday 17 February 1824

At home.  Closely engaged all morning on papers inc. Mrs. Tollets Affairs & sent the Copy of Mr. Armisteads Mortgage with the Draught of the Release which had been perused by Mr. Marlowe to Mr. Prickett with a Letter to him.  Joseph Hudson this day planted the part of the Stonecliffe at the back of the Plantation in the front of the House.

Wednesday 18 February 1824

Mr. Done junior called with Message from Mr. Peake particularly requesting my attendance at Trentham Inn tomorrow, to hear appeal against assessed Taxes.  Afterwards engaged again on papers in Mrs. Tollet's affairs, & writing long letter to the Revd. Rob. Hill in reply to one received from him on Monday last.  Planted this day with my own hand eighteen Portugal Laurels, & Fourteen Rhododendrons, had from Smith of Tunstall, in the clump below the turnips at this end of the front corner Garden.  Also more smaller hedge of Rhododendron, the first at the upper end.

Thursday 19 February 1824

Went to Trentham Inn & closely engaged all day hearing appeals ag. assessed Taxes.  No other commissioner attending I was induced to go through the business myself rather than give the People of whom there were many of who attended to appeal, the trouble of coming again.  Returned to dinner at five & found Dr, Northam who dined.  Whilst at Trentham Inn the Rev. Mr. Ball & John Blunt called upon me.  In the evening Letter from Mr. Chetwynd fixing the next Select Committee Meeting for the 2nd of March as I had proposed instead of the 1st to which be the day he had before requested it to be postponed on account of his going to Town.  In mentioning 2nd Althorpes Bill, he said that he would not leave Town without conferring with J.T.C.

Friday 20 February 1824

 At home.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan.  Engaged in the Morning with Mr. Skerrett who left us before dinner.  In the evening Letter from Mr. Lister confirming the appointment of the next Select Committee Meeting for Tuesday 2nd March.

Saturday 21 February 1824

At home.  Various matters.

Sunday 22 February 1824

At home.  Service.

Monday 23 February 1824

Being prevented going to Cliffe Ville as I had intended by the Witness of the morning sent the Letters & Papers relating to the pursuance of the slip of Land in Linley Lane to Mr. Tomlinson & wrote to him with the same.  In the Evening Letter from Wm. Bent with Draft of Advertisement of Brewery Property for Sale by Auction on

Page 124.  1824  February

Monday 23 February 1824

. the 10 of March next.

Tuesday 24 February 1824

At home.  Engaged on private accounts & affairs.  Mrs. & Miss. H. Kinnersley called.  Rolled Land in the front of the House.  The Furrow which Mr. Slater had made as the line of path was Branch Road & to which I sent him long objection, I found, today filled up.

Wednesday 25 February 1824

Engaged perusing & considering Advertisement for Sale of Newcastle Brewery & the Stoneyfields Estate, which I received on Monday last from Mr. Bent for that purpose.  Afterwards called upon the purchase of Smallwoods Estate by Mr. Skerrett of Sandbach, but he said he thought it should not go for less than £5000.  He promised to consider further of it & see me in a day or two again.  Mrs. Holland of Knutsford, Misses E & J Holland & Miss K. Holland of Liverpool came to dinner.

Thursday 26 February 1824

At Newcastle with the Advertisements & finally settled the same for insertion in the Newspapers, with Wm. Bent & Mr. Ward.  Slight Hail & Snow.  Stamford arrived from London.  Mr. Holland of Knutsford, Mrs. J & Charlotte Wedgwood came to dinner.

Friday 27 February 1824

Mr. Potter called early this morning & with whom engaged a long time on Navigation Business.  Mr. Holland went after breakfast & Mrs Wedgwood & Charlotte at noon.  In the course of the day some snow.

Saturday  28  February 1824

Mrs. Holland & Susan went home.  Sent them in the Carriage to Brereton Green & which brought back Mrs. Lamb & Miss A. Holland. Bebbington paying residue of his Rent.  R. . . . with offer of his Services to who the open cutting as the Tunnel.  Wrote to Mr. Tomlinson relative to Linley Lane Land Business, & in the coming received his answer.  Dr. Northam called in the forenoon & reported favourably of Eliza.  Engaged arranging papers for the next Sel. Committee Meeting on Tuesday next.

Page 125.  1824  February

Sunday 29 February 1824

At home.  Service.  Miss Dawson called relative to Mr. Penlington's affairs.

March

Monday 1 March 1824

Engaged on various matters & papers preparatory to attending Select Committee tomorrow, at Stone, being prevented by the Rain from attending the Turnpike Meeting at Sandbach.  Wrote to Col. Tryon enclosing Letter from Mr. Tomlinson relative to the purchase of the Slip of Land in Linley Lane, to be sent tomorrow morning to Wheelock.

Tuesday 2 March 1824

Went to Stone taking Mr. Sparrow from Newcastle.  Closely engaged all day attending Select Committee.  Mr. Chetwynd & myself.  Mr. Lister not coming

Wednesday 3 March 1824

Just as we were leaving Stone this morning, Mr. Lister arrived having missed the day of the Meeting.  Read over to him the minutes of the proceedings of yesterday, all of which he approved.  Saw Miss Moreton & Miss C. Chetwynd at Stone.  Had a conversation with Mr. Chetwynd relative to Altorpes Bill, & left with him a sketch of a Letter which I prepared to address to Lord Stafford.  Miss E. & Miss K. Holland who were to have met me at Newcastle on their return from Maer Hall, did not come being prevented by the badness of the weather.

Thursday 4 March 1824

At home.  Miss Holland came from Maer Hall.  Wm. Penlington called & with whom I had a long conversation on his affairs.  I drew out and gave him for his consultation a Statement of the advantages & disadvantages of selling the Estate or borrowing money upon them, & advised him in the first place Henshalls to Mr. Lowndes for £5000 & if he took it, to certain Bostock House, there being a probability . . . that Land would rise in value.  But of this I told him that he must judge & determine for himself.

Friday 5 March 1824

At home.  Mrs. Lamb & the three Miss Hollands went after Breakfast, sent them in the Carriage to Brereton Green.  Stamford returned from Stafford General Sessions.

Saturday 6 March 1824

At home.

Sunday 7 March 1824

At home.  Service.

Monday 8 March 1824

Vernon called relative to the open Cutting at the South end of the new Tunnel which he was desirous to contract for when I referred him to Mr. Potter & the Meeting of the Select Committee on the 22 inst.  Afterwards at Sandbach attending Turnpike Meeting, Mr. Ford, Mr. Latham & myself.  When we postponed coming to a final determination as to the proposed new Line, there being so few Trustees present, & postponed the same to the next meeting.  Cold & very stormy day, & which I felt severely on my return, leaving in the Gig.

Tuesday 9 March 1824

At home.  Engaged in the morning on Navigation Papers.  Copying minutes of the last Meeting for insertion in the Book.  Miss Stamford, Ann & Betsy went to Newcastle.  Began under drawing the Bank near to Shaws Land, in the Hollins ground.  Fine day but cold.

Wednesday 10 March 1824

At home.  In the evening Letter from Mr. Bradshaw, with Navigation Papers containing an instant of an extension of the Peak Forest Canal.

Thursday 11 March 1824

In the morning engaged on Navigation Papers & writing to Mr. Bradshaw in reply to his Letter.  Wrote also to Mr. Williams requesting his considerate attention to the business of the Lawton Estate Bill.  After breakfast Ann & Betsy left us.  Went to Stone in the evening for the purpose of conferring with Mr. Vaughan on the Peak Forset Scheme etc. and on my way to Stafford Assizes.  Took Stamford to Stone in the Carriage.  Long conversation in the evening with Mr. Vaughan relative to the Peak Forest Scheme & other matters.  After supper Stamford went on in the coach to Stafford.

Friday 12 March 1824

Took Mr. Vaughan to Stafford.  Served upon the Grand Jury.  Dined with the Sheriff after which Mr. Jos. Wedgwood took his . . . & spent the evening in my Room at the Hotel.

Saturday 13 March 1824

Called on Mr. Peake.  Breakfasted in the Grand Jury Room.  Engaged again on the Grand Jury.  Concluded the business between 3 & 4 in the afternoon.  After which I came home. 

A singular instance of sagacity on Navigation in a Horse was proved before us in a case of Horse stealing.  The Horse had been stolen from Preston in Lancashire, & bought from thence to Wolverhampton where it was offered for sale, but from some suspicious circumstances the person who had it was taken into custody.  Advertisements being circulated, the Owner came soon after to reclaim it.  But the person in whose custody the horse was being desirous to be well satisfied as to the prosperity. The owner said that if he would take him onto the field where the horse was, he would soon remove all doubt of this kind, which by . . . saw coming into the field he whistled & called to the Horse 'Come' Bobby come' by then at an indescribable distance the Horse took no notice.  But on the person going nearer & whistling & calling again the Horse pricked up his Ears, began neighing, came galloping to him, put his nose to the man's . . .,on which the man in whose care the horse was closely observed 'Why to be sure it does look as if these people had seen one another before'.  The identity of the Horse was further proved, if further proof had been needed, by the Blacksmith's mark upon his shoe.

Sunday 14 March 1824

At home.  Service.

Monday 15 March 1824

At home.  In the evening Letter from Mr. . . .on Harrison's business & informing me that Mr. Greaves the Attorney for one of the claimants was satisfied that they had no ground to proceed further upon.  In the course of the day called on Mr. Beardmore, who seems fast declining.  Sent note in the morning to Miss . . .per Mr. Bickerton relative to the House on Newcastle Marsh.

Tuesday 16 March 1824

At home.  Wrote to Mrs. . . .on Harrison's business & on reply to his Letter.  In the evening received printed copy of Span Smithy & Talk Turnpike Road Bill from Mr. Morris.

Wednesday 17 March 1824

At home.  Perused & considered Span Smithy & Talk Road Bill, the Title of which appears to be incorrect.  Afterwards engaged in the Grounds, laying out, with Joseph Hudson, a walk by the water, into the Fir Wood.  Remarkably fine day.

Thursday 18 March 1824

At home.  Drew out Memorandums of business for rent.  Meeting of the Select Committee.  Afterwards engaged completing the new wall with Joseph Henderson & Samuel Beardmore.  Mrs. Bent, Mrs. Northam & Miss Moreton called.  In the evening Letter from Mr. Chetwynd on Navigation Business, & informing me of the precarious state of Sir George's health.

Page 128.  1824  March

Friday 19 March 1824

Went to Newcastle to call upon Mr. Fenton & requested him attend the Select Committee at Stone on Monday next on Mr. Bateman's business as proposed by Mr. Chetwynd & which he promised to do.  Called also upon Mrs. Bent previous to her leaving Stoneyfield & which she proposed doing on Monday next.  From thence went to Etruria Locks viewing the progress of the Alteration.  Returned to dinner, & wrote to Mr. Chetwynd & Mr. Vaughan.  On my return found Mrs. C. Lawton who had called upon Eliza.

Saturday 20

At home.  Engaged with the man fencing out in the Post & Chassis the new walk round the water etc.  Eliza Roscoe & her three children arrived in the Evening, & Stamford, late from Shrewsbury Assizes.

Sunday 21 March 1824

At home.  Service.

Monday 22 March 1824

Went to Stone taking Mr. Sparrow from Newcastle.  Engaged all day on Select Committee.  In the evening long conversation with Mr. Chetwynd on several important matters.  Settled with him the letter which I intended to address to Lord Stafford, relative to Stamford obtaining the appointment of assessor under Dr Althorpes Bill.

Tuesday 23 March 1824

After breakfast returned home.  Found Wm. Bent who was waiting to consult me on several particulars relative to the Sale of the Brewery Property etc. which was to take place this Evening at Newcastle.  Afterwards wrote, & sent the Post the Letter to Lord Stafford.

Wednesday 24 March 1824

Fatigued and unwell.  Called upon Mr. Beardmore who appears to be fast declining.  In the evening Letter from Wm. Bent informing me that there had been no Bidders for the Brewery Property.

Thursday 25 March 1824

At home.  In the forenoon engaged with Joseph Hudson in the Grounds.  Still unwell.

Page 129.  1824  March

Friday 26 March 1824

At home.  After breakfast Mr. Vaughan called with whom engaged all morning on Navigation business Accounts.  Order of proceeding & business for the General Assembly etc.etc.  Mr. Vaughan on intelligence of the death of Mr. George Chetwynd, who died on Wednesday last.  Mrs. Wedgwood of Betley & Mrs. Wedgwood of Maer called.  Began draining the Bank above the water in the corner of the flower Garden.

London, March twenty six 1824

J. Caldwell Esq

Linley Lodge

Newcastle under Lime

Stafford.

Kidmore, March 26, 1824

My dear Sir,

My father desires me, owing to the difficulty he has in writing, to say that if the Bill for the recovery of small debts should pass, and put it into his power to appoint the [papers?] to the Sheriff, he shall be happy to have that opportunity of shewing his regard for you and your family and his opinion of Mr J. Caldwell’s integrity and abilities, by appointing him to that office.

I am my dear Sir, ever

[rightly?] and faithfully yours

[signature]

Diary of James Caldwell at Linley Wood

Saturday 27 March 1824

Engaged on the Farm.  Began laying manure on Rough Clough land from Canal.  At home & in the evening Letter from Dr. George Chetwynd on occasion of his Father's death.  Also a Letter from Lord Gower assuring me in the . . . Terms of Stamford's appointment to the Assessorship under the County Courts Bill in it were voted on Lord Stafford.

Sunday 28 March 1824

Wrote to Sir George Chetwynd.  Service.

Monday 29 March 1824

At home.  Wrote to Lord Gower.  Mr. Davenport dined having brought a black Horse from Mr. Godwin of . . . ,7 years old for Stamford to look at, which he determined to take at £60 & paid W.D. accordingly.

Tuesday 30 March 1824

Met Mr. Potter by appointment at Harecastle Tunnel and at about half past eleven o'clock, dug up myself the first clod of the open cutting of the intended new Tunnel, in the piece of Land belonging to the company & adjoining the Dwelling house; in the presence of Mr. Potter, Mr. Thomas George . . .one of the Contractors for the Cutting & a considerable number of other Bystanders, thus making the first beginning of this great and useful work.  Cold morning with snow & rain.  In the evening Letter from Sir George Chetwynd including one which he had received from Lord Gower.  Stamford set off to London on County Courts Bill Account.

Wednesday 31^st March 1824

At home.  Mr. Roscoe & Miss Jane Roscoe arrived.  Mr. Davenport relative to the Horse, but which was finally determined to keep from a reliance upon Mr. Godwin's Report.

April 1824

Thursday 1^st April 1824

Sent to Stamford for . . .case received last night from Mr.Turner of Newcastle for his approval.  At home.  Engaged on Navigation business considering & drawing out Heads for Report to be made to the approaching General Assembly.  Received at dinner a Letter from Ann with an alarming account of Mr. . . , who was in a state of great danger from a pack hound in the House.

Page 130.  1824  April

Friday 2 April 1824

Received a favourable account of Mr. Skerrett.  At Trentham Inn attending Meeting of Commission for assessed Taxes etc.  Delivering Instructions & Survey in the assessors.  Also on Deputy Lieutenancy Ballot to fill up vacancies in . . .   Mr. Spode & Mr. Bourne also attended.

Saturday 3 April 1824

In the morning George & John Cope relative to their contracting for a Steam Engine for the Navigation Co. when I referred them to Mr. Potter who told them he thought might be a proper engine from one about them.  Wrote to Rev. Mr.. . . & Mrs. Penlington enclosing their respective shares of the late  Bonus.  Called upon Mr. Beardmore.  From thence to the Hollins & settled with it, paid Mr. Johnson for his attendance relative to the new Tunnel.  Mr. Mrs. Tollet called.

Sunday 4 April 1824

At home.  Service.  In the afternoon rode out on horseback with Mr. Roscoe.

Monday 5 April 1824

At home.  Engaged on the late Mrs. Tollet's papers.  Wrote to the Revd. Mr. Hill, & to Mr. Berrisford of Macclesfield, & enclosed a letter carried from the latter to Mr. Hill.  Called again upon Mr. Beardmore.  In the Evening Mr. Roscoe & Miss J. Roscoe left us for London.

Tuesday 6 April 1824

Went to Nantwich to see my old & highly valued friend Mr. Skerrett, and who I had the pleasure to find fast recovering from his late dangerous and almost fatal illness.  On my way met Mr. Cunningham who was coming to Linley Wood with the intention of spending a couple of days with Stamford.  I proposed him to go on notwithstanding Stamford's absence and which he consented to do. 

Dined and staid all night at Nantwich.  Mr. Kent said that of Mr. Skerrett was worried about any thing it might bring on great . . .of . . .& should . . .  . .   The Train accident which is in uproar on account of a Dr. Bridge who had come there to state as a Physician, who was in attendance upon Mr. Skerrett, & by his skill at attention had given great satisfaction.  Letter to him & to Mr. Kent. The circumstance alleged against him was

Page 131.  1824  April

that he had lived at Tavistock in Devon & in under another name, so far from which, the Doctor maintained that he had never been at Tavistock, thence the matter . . .for explanation between him & Mr. James Bayley of Devon or Mrs. Bayley who had first returned the matter.  Mr. Atkinson & Mrs. W. Garnett called at Mr. Skerrett's.

Wednesday 7 April 1824

Ann having shown me a letter which Mr. Skerrett had received from his Brother, but would not send through, I desired her to . . . him of it, & at the same time to ask him whether he would wish his Brother to be informed of his . . .  Mr. Wm. Garnett called.  Returned home to dinner & found Mr. Cunningham with whom engaged.  Letter from Mr. Vaughan with statement of Account of Navigation ending at Christmas last.

Thursday 8 April 1824

After breakfast Mr. Cunningham left us, proceeding to London.  Revised & considered Account received from Mr. Vaughan.

Friday 9 April 1824

At home.  Unwell with a cold.  Engaged on Navigation Papers & other matters.  Stamford arrived from London.  E. Roscoe went to Maer Hall.

Saturday 10 April 1824

Had a miserable night with severe pain in the chest, & otherwise being unwell.  Confined to the House but engaged on Navigation Papers & particularly revising & attending the Draft of the Report for the General Assembly  Stamford related to me the particulars of what he had done in London; & particularly the application which he had made to Mr. Peel.  All of which appeared to me to be proper & satisfactory.  In the evening Letter from Mr. Hill in reply to my letter of the 4th.

Sunday 11 April 1824

So unwell as not to be able to go through the usual Service.  Stamford went to Nantwich on his way to Chester Assizes.  In the evening received long letter from Mr. Prickett with the Draft of the Deeds for the final Settlement of the late Mrs. Tollet's affairs & Mr. . . .further opinion thereon.  In the evening snow & Hail with some lightening.

Monday 12 April 1824

I had a uncomfortable night.  Closely engaged all Morning on Navigation papers previous to seeing Mr. Vaughan who had proposed coming to Linley Wood, wishing to see me on various matters preparatory to the General Assembly.  Long conversation with him accordingly.  He staid to dinner, but went back in the evening.  I read to him the Draft of the intended Report which he fully approved, & which I sent

Page 132.  1824  April

by him to be forwarded to Sir George Chetwynd with a long Letter which I had written this morning to Sir George on Navigation business, & communicating to him also the particulars of what Stamford had done in London, and the appreciation which had been made to Mr. . . .& looked over the Papers in the late Mrs Tollet's affairs received yesterday, I wrote Letter to the Revd. Mr. Hill.  This morning considerable snow on the ground.

Tuesday 13 April 1824

Engaged again on Navigation papers.  Perused minutes of the last Select Committee Meeting, & made a copy which I sent by Post to Mr. Vaughan for insertion in the Book.  Afterwards engaged on Mrs. Tollet's papers, & sent the Letter to Mr. Hill.  Called upon Mr. Beardmore & thought him worse.

Wednesday 14 April 1824

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Hollinshead of Liverpool, informing him that the Selection of an Engineer for the Tunnel would take place at the General Assembly.  Mr. Sutton of Shardlow called & with whom engaged a considerable time on Navigation business.  Miss Stamford & E. Roscoe went to Newcastle.

Thursday 15 April 1824

Went to Newcastle & called upon Mr. Williamson who I found with Mrs. Wilkinson at Mr. Sparrows & when they only just arrived, called after my return home on Wm. Beardmore.  Still worse.  When at Newcastle called at Kinnerslys & signed a consent to exchange my 4 . . .stock to the ¾ plants as proposed by the Minister.  In the evening received a very hard letter from Sir George Chetwynd returning me the Draft of the Report & the Account with his . Fierce apperbation.

Friday 16 April 1824

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan.  Revised again the Draft of the Report & afterwards made a copy of the same to be laid before the General Assembly.  Severely cold day.

Saturday 17 April 1824

Wrote to Mr. Prickett on Mrs.Tollet's affairs acknowledging receipt of papers.  Wrote to Mr. Tomlinson appointing Monday next to see him on these affairs.  Mr. Potter called with whom engaged relative to the agreement with the contributions for the open Cutting.  Afterwards accompanied

Page 133.  1824  April

him to the South end of the Tunnel, receiving the progress of the work, and afterwards rode with him over the hill viewing the line of the the additional Tunnel as now marked out.  On my return called on Mr. Beardmore.  Very cold day.

Sunday 18 April 1824

At home.  Service.  Mr. Roscoe arrived.  Mr. Bent also dined.  Unwell with a return of my cold occasioned by my Ride of yesterday.

Monday 19 April 1824

At home.  Engaged on various papers & matters previous to going to Stone tomorrow but very unwell.

Tuesday 20 April 1824

Went to Stone early.  Called at Mr. Sparrow's but he was not ready.  Got to Stone about 10.  Saw Mr. Vaughan.  Afterwards engaged in General Committee, in the Chair.

Wednesday 21 April 1824

At Stone.  General Assembly.  Previous & satisfactory conversation with Lord Harrowby, who was afterwards in the Chair.  Business of the General Assembly gone though with great concerning & unanimity.  Lord H. have set being not to stay a . . . & upon Mr. Littleton to take the chair at dinner.  Long conversation with Mr. Littleton about Dr. . . . of Nantwich of whom he spoke in the highest terms of respect saying that he had known him 9 years.  He expressed himself to me in my strong terms supporting Dr. B. & said that he moved . . . letter to me . . .of the Sentiments which he then personally expected. 

Brought Mr. Sparrow back with me to Newcastle, being unwell myself with a seasoned cold.  When at Stone had much conversation with Sir George Chetwynd on his affairs & various matters.  He said that he would be meeting with Mr. Peel relative to Stamford, & would also speak to him on the subject when he got to Town.

Thursday 22 April 1824

Miserably bad night.  Mr. Law & Bannister on the Northern Circuit, Jos. & Kinsley Wedgwood dined & staid all night.  . . . was prevented coming.

Friday 23 April 1824

Very unwell.  Jos Wedgwood & Mr. Law dined.  . . . having gone to Betley.  Called at Beardmore's.  Engaged on late Mrs. Tollet's papers previous

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to consulting Mr. Tomlinson upon them & which I thought it proper to do.

Saturday 24 April 1824

Josiah Wedgwood & Mr. Law left us.  Went to Cliffe Ville consulting Mr. Tomlinson and left the papers with him for his consideration.  Brought E. Roscoe, who had been at Parkfields the two last days from Newcastle.  Still very unwell.

Sunday 25 April 1824

At home.  Service.

Monday 26 April 1824

At home.  Went to Mr. Littleton in reply to a Letter received from him relative to Dr. . . .  Unwell.

Tuesday 27 April 1824

Mr. Robert Heath to propose for my consideration the application of the water piping out of the Caldon Canal into the Grand Trunk at Etruria Locks to the purpose of a corn or other mill, & for which it will afford an ample supply.  Received this morning from Mr. Tatton the late Mr. . . .Report on the Peake Forest & . . .Junction line of Canal which he had promised to send for my consideration.  Rode out on horseback & called at Beardmores.

Wednesday 28 April 1824

At home.  Began sowing the Birchen field next the Turnpike Road.  In the evening received from Sir Geo. Chetwynd for correction the boundary of the Extract from the Acts 4 c 53, which I approved, & returned to him by this Post.  Stamford set off to Stafford Assizes, from whence he goes to Town.

Thursday 29 April 1824

At home.  M. Wedgwood of Betley dined on his way to Parkfields.

Friday 30 April 1824

At home.

May

Saturday 1^st May 1824

At home.  Sowing.  Brough relative to the improvement of the Road in the front of the House, & appointed him to call again on Monday morning.

Sunday 2 May 1824

At home.  Service.

Monday 3 May 1824

Mr. James Lucas relative to the Navigation . . .consent to his obtaining a Licence for a house near the north end of the Tunnel mouth, held on Lease from Mr. Heathcote, where I finally told him

Page 135.  1824  May

that I would consult Mr. Vaughan.  Afterwards engaged on Newcastle Brewery papers, in consequence of a Letter received from Mr. Ward relative to the Title to the Public House in the . . . Street.  Rain all day.

Tuesday 4 May 1824

At Newcastle being the Sessions.  Called upon Mr. Ward but he was from home.  Afterwards dined with the Mayor etc. at the Roebuck, & returned in the Evening.

Wednesday 5 May 1824

Called upon Mr. Penlington relative to his discharging the Mortgage to Mrs. Skerratt of Sandbach, who he said that he would see & obtain his accounts of principal & Interest.  In the evening Mrs. & Miss Crompton of Eton,Edward, Mary, & Emma arrived at Linley Wood.

Thursday 6 May 1824

Mr. Vaughan called early on Navigation business.  Deliverance a Letter from the Chairman of the Committee Birmingham Canal relative to the projected Railway from Birmingham to Liverpool.  Wrote to John Laurence acknowledging.  . . of . . .& Birmingham Canal Dept.  Engaged with Peter Crompton. Letter from Mr. Hollinshead informing me of a revival of the project for making a Rail Road from Manchester to Liverpool.  In the course of the day received a Letter from Col. . . .declining to carry the agents for the Land in Linley Lane with effect which I replied to.

Friday 7 May 1824

Wrote to Mr. Lee & to Mr. Hollinshead.  Engaged on various matters, afterwards with Edward Crompton.  We received by the Post the joyful intelligence upon dear Emma having a Daughter, & going on safely & well.  Received also on a Letter from Sir George Chetwynd in consequence of his having seen Mr. Telford.  Wm. Penlington dined, having been at Sandbach, but Mr. Skerrett was from home.  Sent Mr. Littleton Letter relative to D. Boody to Nantwich.

Saturday 8 May 1824

At Newcastle taking Edward Crompton in the Carriage.  Called upon Mr. Ward, & settled with him the Draft of my answer to the Heathcote amicable Bill in Chancery relative to the Shrewsbury Brewery property & getting them to make some family arrangements as to John Heathcotes share. 

Left with Mr. Ward the counterpart of the assignment of the Shrewsbury Brewery to Mr. Heathcote, to be executed by . . .of the Partners who had not got down it, also left with him the assignment from Col . . .& his trustees to one of the share in the Newcastle Brewery & check was wanted in order to be with Mr. Ward to make out the Title to the

Page 136.  1824  May

public House in the . . .Street.  Left also with him the copy of the assignment from Col. Buckley to his Trustees.  On my return wrote to Sir George Chetwynd in Navigation Business.

Sunday 9 May 1824

At home.  Service.  In the Evening rode out with Edward Crompton.

Monday 10 May 1824

At home.  Engaged with Edward Crompton etc. Turned 13 milking cows & one barren into the ground under the wood.  Fine hot day.

Tuesday 11 May 1824

Mr. Potter called and with whom engaged a considerable time on Navigation business.  Wrote to Mr. Williamson relative to seeing Mr. Bateman. Wrote  to Mr. L . . of Rugeley to enquire whether he had spoke to Mrs. Sparrow & Miss Moston relative to Talk Co. of Dilapidations.  Also to Mr. Tomlinson from whom I received back yesterday the Draft of the Release on the late Mrs. Tollet's affairs, & appointing to call upon him on Thursday morning next. Mr. Ward's clerk with my answer to the Bill in chancing filed by Mr. John Heathcote, which I attended with him, in the best manner I could, and then signed. Wm. Penlington on his affairs & particularly as to discharging the Mortgage, to Mr. Skerrett of Sandbach, which he was anxious that I should do.

Wednesday 12 May 1824

Wrote to Mrs. Fancourt & Mr., . . .Derby. Afterwards went to the Tunnel mouth, to see how the work was going on, & where I found all well.  Edward Crompton accompanied me.  Engaged on Mrs. Tollet's papers previous to seeing Mr. Tomlinson tomorrow.

Thursday 13 May 1824

Went to Cliffe Ville on Mrs. Tollet's affairs, settling with Mr. Tomlinson the Draft of the Release etc.  Called also upon Mr. Wilkinson at Newcastle, with the Minutes of the Contract for the open cutting at the Tunnel mouth & giving him the necessary instructions to propose an Agreement & Bond. On my return home found Dr. Crompton.

Friday 14 May 1824

Engaged with the Doctor who left us between one & two o'clock, on his return home.  In the evening letter from Sir George Chetwynd.

Page 137.  1824  May 

Saturday 15 May 1824

At home.  Mr. Vaughan on Navigation Business & with whom engaged a considerable time.  Wrote to Sir George Chetwynd & Mr. Lister, & penned Tuesday the 25 instant for a Meeting of the Select Committee at Stone & to meet Mr. Telford.

Sunday 16 May 1824

At home.  Service.  Letter from Sir George Chetwynd by the Post enclosing minutes of the meeting before the court of K.B.of the Caldon case.

Monday 17 May 1824

Closely engaged on Navigation business & on various matters from breakfast to dinner.  Wrote to Sir George Chetwynd, Mr. Simpson of Birmingham, Mr. L. . of Rugeley & Mr. Peake of Silverdale.  John Taylor called relative to his claim to Estates in the possession of Mr. Richford when I gave him my opinion that the Claim was unfounded, but recommended to him, if he had any doubt, to take the opinion of counsel.

Tuesday 18 May 1824

Engaged on Navigation Business, copied the Minutes of the last committee & General Assembly, & writing therewith to Mr. Vaughan.  Called afterwards at Mr. Beardmore's.  Received notice from Mr. Wedgwood of Bignall End that he should pay in on the 19 of November next, £4000 further part of principal due on Bond & mortgage.

Wednesday 19 May 1824

In the morning Mr. Wedgwood of Bignall End paying me £2000 on part of the sum of £11500 due on Bond & Mortgage, & half a year's interest this day.  Afterwards went to Newcastle & paid £2245.19 into the hands of Kinnersly's.  Edward Crompton accompanied me.

Thursday 20 May 1824

At home.  Engaged on Navigation concerns.  I wrote to Sir George Chetwynd in reply to a Letter received from him last night, & making an offer of coming to Town if my presence was at any time deemed necessary, on occasion of the . . .project now in . . . .

Friday 21 May 1824

Went to Trentham Inn at the urgent solicitation of Mr. Peake, attending Meeting of Commissioners of Land & assessed Taxes.  Closely engaged all day & returned late to dinner.  In the Evening Letter again from Sir George Chetwynd expressive of the alarm at the new projects.

Page 138.  1824  May

Saturday 22 May 1824

Closely engaged all day on Navigation papers & business.  Particularly drawing circular Letter to be sent to the Prop. Relative to the various admin. & projects now on a . . .

Sunday 23 May 1824

After breakfast the Crompton's left us on their return home, our horse taking them to Brereton Green.  Service.  Wrote to Sir George Chetwynd.

Monday 24 May 1824

Went to Newcastle by appointment to have met Mr. Thomas Fenton at his office on Mr. Bateman's business & the Knypersley Reservoir, but he being unwell I fixed with Mr. Rob. Fenton to meet him some other day with Mr. Potter and of which I was to give him notice.  Afterwards on Navigation papers previous to going to Stone tomorrow.  On my return found a letter from Mr. Williamson offering to meet me any day at Newcastle on the Reservoir business.  Began the . . .& alteration of the Road in the front of the House, having agreed with Brough to do the work.

Tuesday 25 May 1824

At Stone attending Select Committee Meeting.  Mr. Telford attended with whom we finally arranged that he should take the management of the executive of the Tunnel through Harecastle Hill as consulting and directing Engineer.  He afterwards went with Mr. Potter to rearrange what had been done in the open cutting etc. & with which on his return he expressed being of well satisfied.  Closely engaged all day.  In the evening much conversation with Mr. Telford particularly as to the proposed Rack Roads & Steam Engines, the idea of which he thought absurd, & that they now could practically answer.  He seemed to come to the same opinion as to the preferred Peak Forest & Crawford Canal.

Wednesday 26 May 1824

Several matters having come to my mind, particularly as to Mr. Telford's Terms etc.  I rose at a little after 5 o'clock and desired to see him before he set off on his return to Town, he having moved 6 for that purpose.  Long conversation with him again & now 7 o'clock.  On the subject of Terms he said that considering himself as standing on the Shares of the late Mr. . . . , who had been employed by us, he should scale his charge accordingly

Page 139.  1824  May

but he should not stick at Trustees, and so great was to have been Mr. . . . charge for coming down to survey the Tunnel as he knew nothing of what his charges were. Finished the business of the Select Committee & returned home.  Called at Mr. Fenton's Office & found Saturday next for meeting his Brother at Newcastle on Mr. Bateman's business.  Miss Tollet came to dinner.  In the evening Letter from Lady Chetwynd informing me of Sir George having had a severe attack of bowel complaint, & on Navigation business.

Thursday 24 May 1824

Engaged all morning on Navigation concerns.  Wrote to Lady Chetwynd, sent a copy also of the Select Committee Minutes relative to Mr. Telford.  Wrote & sent by a Messenger a letter to Mr. Williamson requesting him to meet me at Newcastle on Saturday next.  Hot day.  Fanny & Emma Wedgwood came to dinner.

Friday 25 May 1824

At home.  Engaged again on Navigation business.  Wrote to Mr. Lee Chairman of the Birmingham Canal Committee.  Wrote also to Mr. Simpson. Miss Tollet left us.

Saturday 26 May 1824

At Newcastle meeting by appointment at the Roebuck Mr. Williamson, Mr. Fenton & Mr. Potter for the purpose of deciding to settle all matters & objections on the part of Mr. Bateman & Mr. Williamson on relative to the making of the Knypersley Reservoir & when after much discussion & consideration of the several circumstances stated I was so happy as to this effect and to . . . all further difficulty in case Mr. Baddeley consent to the Road being carried on the eastern instead of the western side of the Reservoir, can be obtained, and which there is every reason to hope for as this course will be advantageous to his own Estates and Tennants.  Saw & explained to Mr. Williamson.  Sir John Heathcote settled account with the late Partnership of Sparrow & Caldwell.  Returned to dinner, and suffering from lumbago.

Page 140.  1824  May

Saturday 29 May 1824

Wrote Letter to Mr. Kinnersley relative to Stamford's business.  Fanny & Emma Wedgwood went before dinner.

Sunday 30 May 1824

At home.  Service, but suffering from lumbago.

Monday 31 May 1824

At home.  Engaged on Navigation Papers preparatory to writing to Sir George Chetwynd in reply to a letter received from him by the last night's Post relative to the Rail Road Project etc.

June

Tuesday 1^st June 1824

At home.  Wrote long letter to Sir George Chetwynd in reply to the one last received from him.

Wednesday 2 June 1824

At home.  Engaged all morning on Navigation Business.  Writing long letter to Mr. Telford in reply to one received from him.  Copied & sent to Mr. Telford the copies of the Minute made at Stone & of Mr. . . . account.  Wrote also to Mr. Vaughan & sent him copy of the Minute made relative to the purchase of Sir Charles Wolsley's Ground Rent.  Mr. Broadmarsh of Mansfield & Mr. Wm. Broadhurst of Manchester & staid to dinner.  Turned the Carriage Horses out to Grass with the horses in the Hollows Ground & the latter Bay Horse in to . . . Meadow.

Thursday 3 June 1824

At home.  Engaged with the men making the alterations in the Ground before the House.  Mr. Holland of Knutsford came to dinner, & with whom afterwards engaged.  Bone Dust costs about £4 per Ton, 89 Bushels or 2 Tons at least shall be used to the . . .Core.  The Bushel weighs about 56 lbs. or 2/- per Bushel.  If ground small, as some persons use it, 2/3 per bucket.  Lay it on the ground in Cold . . . or . . .or any of the . . .from this as may be convenient.  It  seals cold Land the best.

Friday 4 June 1824

After breakfast Mr. Holland left us.  Engaged again with them in the front of the House.

Saturday 5 June 1824

After breakfast Mrs. Holland with her daughters Charlotte & Louisa left & went on their return to Knutsford.  Afterwards went to Dr. Holland on the County Courts Bill affair.  Engaged with man in the front of the House who this day cut in the Ground.  Called upon Mr. Beardmore who has a Relapse of his complaint.

Sunday 6 June 1824

At home.. Service.

Monday 7 June 1824

Mr. Vaughan came to breakfast, to consult with me upon various Navigation matters, & with whom engaged almost all morning.  In the evening called at Mr. Beardmore's who I found much worse.  Called also upon Mr. Johnson, to determine that he would be ready to give every information in his power to Mr. Telford, relative to the mines etc. in the making of the new Tunnel & which he promised to do. 

In my absence Miss Dawson called to inform me of Mr. Penlington being in a state of considerable danger, & requesting me to see him when convenient.  Hot day.

Tuesday 8 June 1824

Mr. Potter came this morning and with whom engaged a very considerable time on Navigation business.  I particularly dwelt upon the late Delay in returning the water into the Canal after the stoppage of which Mr. Vaughan . . improved me greatly.  Also the error that Mr. P had committed in supposing that the company were at their expense to execute the Bridge at Stoke & showed him the Minute, when he acknowledged his mistake, I desired him to let this be explained considerably to the Partners. 

I argued him to locomotive in obtaining Mr. . . .consent to the Road we proposed by Mr. Williamson etc. and explained the absolute . . .of cash Department of business being attended to by the persons to whom it was committed & who would be deemed responsible for it.

Afterwards wrote to Mr. Telford a letter to enclose a Bill which I expected from Mr. Vaughan by this Evening Post . . .62-4 being the account of Mr. Telford's changes for business down in 1822.  This Bill was afterwards received & . . .accordingly. 

About 12 o'clock received the account of the death of my oldest highly esteemed neighbour William Beardmore, who died this morning about o'clock.  Few persons in his situation of life & am from more fully or deservedly respected, and in all my circumstances with him, which for many of cases been almost constant, I always found him punctual, honest and anxious to discharge his duty. 

In the evening went down to Rode Heath to see William Penlington who I found in a very doubtful state.  Staid with him some time.  Wrote at his request to Miss Skerrett's relative to the purchase of a piece of land lying within Smallwood's Estate, & which as it was highly desirable to save the Lane, I said that I would . . . the money that he wanted.  Advised him before I came away to call in some further material thence, and suggested as determinedly as I could that propriety of making any arrangement of his affairs that he might be desirous of.

Wednesday 9 June 1824

Wrote to Mr. Vaughan acknowledging the Receipt of the Draft which I remitted yesterday to Mr. Telford and on other Navigation business. Revised Minutes of the last Select Committee meeting & sent them to Mr. Vaughan for entry in the Book. 

The additional step at the Haledon was finished today; but so all managed, that I desired Mr. Allan might himself come & look at it.  In the evening Eliza went out in the Carriage for the first time since her Return from Nantwich Christmas last.  She intended to have gone with me to Rode Heath, but finding the exercise more than she expected, she stopped at Coopers while I went on. 

Found Mr. Penlington rather better.  Made further arrangements with him for bidding for the piece of land at the Sale.  Mrs Skerrett having asked £55 for it, by private contract.

Thursday 10 June 1824

At home.  Mr. Henshall (Mr. Penlington's Tenant) with whom made an arrangement for Mr. Broody to bid at the Sale tomorrow on behalf of Mr. Penlington, to the extent of £450.  Engaged with the man attending the . . .Road into the Stable yard etc.  In the evening George Beardmore consulting as to his Father's Funeral, which is appointed for tomorrow.

Friday 11 June 1824

Attended the Funeral of William Beardmore at Audley, taking the Revd. Mr. John Lawton with me in the Carriage & afterwards dined at Linley Wood.  Called at Mr. Hickins.  In the evening received Letter from Mr. Vaughan relative to the late delay in filling the canal with water.

Saturday 12 June 1824

Went to Newcastle to confer with Mr. Williamson on the Wellington appeal business, in order that all due preference might be made & whom he said that he would apply to Mr, Vaughan, or Sir George Chetwynd for a copy of the Notice of Appeal.  On my way to Newcastle met Mr. Benjamin Eardley with whom I had a conversation relative to Woodshutts Colliery water being taken into the Canal, and as it appeared to be of

Page 143.  1824  June

consequence, particularly from the apparently settled business of the matter, I appointed to go with him on Tuesday morning neat week to look at the water. On my return home wrote to Mr. Vaughan, requesting his sentiments as to my agreeing for the same.  Wrote to Mary Hill & remitted Bill for the half year annuity.

Sunday 13 June 1824

In the morning Service at home.  In the afternoon at Talk Chapel & heard an excellent sermon preached by Mr. John Lawton from the last verse of he 29 chapter of Deuteronomy, & which contains as much sound sense and good preaching instruction as is to be found in any verse in the Scriptures.  The words are.  'The sweet things belong unto the Lord our God: but these things which concealed belong unto us and to our Children for own, that we may do all the all the words of the Law.'  In the evening fine Rain.

Monday 14 June 1824

At home.  Engaged on various matters.  Brownsword who married one of Legatees under the late Mrs. Tollets called to require payment of his wife's Legacy, being the money which Mr. Hill had paid into the hands of the late Mr. Harding, who explained to Brownsword that I had never interfered in the receipt or payment of the effects & that the transaction with Mr. Harding was a matter entirely between him & Mr. Hill & with which I had nothing at all to do.  With this explanation Brownsword expressed himself fully satisfied so far as related to me, but said he was advised to call upon Mr. Hill for the Legacy. In the evening letter from Mr. Vaughan.

Tuesday 15 June 1824

Mr. Eardley called pursuant to appointment.  After much conversation relative to the Woodshutts Colliery.  I accompanied him to the places, . . .the Water. Engine,etc. & it appearing to seem to be highly expedient this the Navigation should service it themselves the business of it we . . .that Mr. Rob. Heath should be called in to assist & report upon the quantity for which that would be delivered with certainty into the Summit Pound in the Summer months. Mr Eardley would then consult Mr. Heathcote as to . . .& we then appointed to meet again.  Mr. Rob. Heath to call upon me as soon as he had . . .& was able to . . upon the quantity of water.  From thence went to call upon the Revd. Mr. Mainwaring, but he was from home.  In the Evening Miss Stamford arrived home from Birmingham.

Page 144.  1824..June

Wednesday 16^th June 1824

At home.  Engaged on various matters.  Letter from Mr. Rob. Heath relative to the Woodshutts Colliery  water & appointed him to call upon me on Tuesday next after draining the water, which he proposed doing the next day.

Thursday 17 June 1824

At home.  Considered and drew out minutes of business for the Select Committee at their next meeting.  Wrote to Mr Tomlinson on Mrs. Tollet's affairs.  In the evening letter from Mr. Potter informing me of Mr. . . . consent to the arrangements as to the Road at Knypersley Colliery.  Miss Stamford went to Betley & returned to dinner.

Friday 18 June 1824

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Landon relative to Talk Curacy Dilapidations previous to my finally settling this matter with Mr. Hill.  Mr. Hill arrived.  In the evening went to Rode Heath to see Mr. Penlington, who I found in a very indifferent & previous state.  He and his sister expressed again their strong wish that I would pay off the money due to Miss Skerrett's Mortgage.  On my return, found letter from Mr. Vaughan, with an account of the water in the Reservoir and suggesting me to appoint a day for his coming over to consult me on various matters.

Saturday 19 June 1824

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan leaving to him the whole of the day for my seeing him etc.  Dr. Northam  & the Revd. Mr. Mainwaring dined. Weather changed again to Rain.

Sunday 20 June 1824

At home.  Service.  Showers with some thunder.

Monday 21 June 1824

At home.  Engaged with the men putting down the main Hurdles, and finishing the ground in the front of the House.  In the evening letter from Mr. Vaughan appointing Thursday next for his coming to Linley Wood.  Turned 15 Milking cows & 2 freshers into this ground.  Thunder & Rain.

Tuesday 22 June 1824

At home.  Mr. Robert Heath came to us & went to appointment relative to the Woodshutts Colliery water, when we finally agreed that the . . . of the working of the Engine & other circumstances, should be accurately ascertained, in order to enable Mr. Skerrett to pronounce upon the quantity of water that would be actively

Page 145.  1824  June

delivered, previous to any Treaty being entered into with Mr. Heathcote.  Considered with Mr. Heath the subject of returning the water out of the Pound into the Caldon Canal by means of a Water Wheel instead of a Steam Engine; the power of which would appear to be the least expensive mode, in case the consent of the Road owners through whose land the necessary culvert must pass, can be obtained.

Wednesday 23 June 1824

At home.  Various matters.  Mr Stamford & Miss . . went to Parkfields.  Letter from Stamford to his mother, with claim to further allowance !!! on the ground of a promise to be made of £500.  No such promise was ever made indeed could be made by end of the little . . .that I have for a few days past enquired, & from which I was claiming sensible benefit.  All this is hard work.

Thursday 24 June 1824

Engaged settling & balancing Cash Book for the Half year ending this day.  Afterwards on Navigation matters preparatory to seeing Mr. Vaughan.  Wrote to the Rev. Mr. Hill, relative to Talk Curacy Dilapidations, & informing him that the Representatives of the late Revd. Mr. . . . were willing to pay the sum of £50, if accepted in satisfaction of all claims. 

Afterwards engaged with Laborious laying out the back Road from the stable yard through Stonecliffe Wood.  Strange question made to me of my Lane's promised to allow J.S.C. £500 . . .the such money having given him the . . .Ill with Headache & depressed Feelings.  It seems as if rest and quiet will never to dwell with me!  No sooner do I begin to experience the last . . . of Repose, but something or other arrives, and too often from quarters when it is least expected, to hurry and disturb me, and . . .me into the state of anxiety and vexation from which I seemed for a moment to have escaped.  Mr. Vaughan came to dinner, & with whom afterwards closely engaged on Navigation Business.  Persistent Rain.

Friday 25 June 1824

Mr. Vaughan went after breakfast, having previously talked over the Caldon Case & the nature of the affidavits that would be requisite.  Unwell & slight attack of Gout.  In the evening letter from Mr. Telford.  Bad account of Mr. Penlington.  Miss Wettenhall called. 

His Majesty’s Most Gracious Speech to Both Houses of Parliament

On Friday, June 25, 1824

London, Printed by George Eyre and Andrew Strahan. Printers to the King’s most Excellent Majesty. 1824.

My Lords, and Gentlemen,

I cannot close this Session of the Parliament without returning to you My warmest Acknowledgment for the Diligence and Assiduity with which you have applied yourselves to the several Objects of Public Interest that have been submitted to your Consideration.

Two more pages to transcribe.

Saturday 26 June 1824

At home.  Unwell & Represented and Reconsidered the Caldon Case.  Engaged with Warham finishing the Stable Yard, putting up the Gates etc.  In the evening went down in the Carriage to Rode Heath, & saw Miss Penlington & Miss J. . . but Mr. Penlington was so ill, that they did not propose my going up stairs to see him.  Both D. Belcombe & Mr. Holland had strongly urged the importance of keeping him perfectly quiet & prevent any agitation.  Miss Penlington said they had some letters from Liverpool particularly one from Mr. Tunstall, but which they thought it best not to show to him, particularly that from Mrs. Tunstall which spoke of his being in a dangerous state & which they feared might alarm & hurt him.

Sunday 27 June 1824

At home.  Unwell.  Service.

Monday 28 June 1824

At home.  Unwell, but a good deal engaged with the workmen in the Stable Yard, Road etc.  In the evening letter from Mr. Vaughan, including statement of Pool field loss account on limestone got at Caldon Lowe.

Tuesday 29 June 1824

At home.  Engaged on Navigation Papers & particularly reconsidering the Caldon Case, in consequence of the Statement received from Mr. Vaughan, & making observation thereon.  Received in the evening a letter from Mr. Williamson, informing me that Sir George Chetwynd had selected the Wilkington Appeal Case with Mr. . . . In the course of the day heavy Rain.

Wednesday 30 June 1824

At home.  Engaged again on Navigation Papers, particularly the Caldon Case, & copying my observations thereon to be laid before the Select Committee.  Still very unwell, with Fever fits, but Gout gone.

July

Thursday 1^st July 1824

Bad night.  Much Fever and restlessness.  When the Horse is now weighted, a Feather will overpower him.  When the mind has been over strained, a small thing will cross it.  When the Harp of a thousand strings has been overstrung, a small thing will break the chords or turn their harmony into discord! 

God only knows, how much I have of late years felt, and how botherly I now feel all this!!  Went to Newcastle in the Carriage to have seen Mr. Fenton, relative to Mr. Bateman's Agreement, but he was not at his office.  Called at Mr. Allan's, & gave him directions for alteration of the monument

Page 147.  1824  July

on the Sconce of the vault in Audley Chancel, in which the name had been curiously spelt Caldwall instead of Caldwell & the place Lindley Wood instead of Linley Wood, and which he promised to get done & attend accordingly.  In my absence Mr. Wilbraham of Rode Heath & Mr. Randle Wilbraham called.

Friday 2 July 1824

Considered again the Caldon Case & made further observations thereon particularly in reply to one . . .the being by then C.J. . .   Afterwards called at Rode Hall, & had a most considerate & friendly meeting with Mr. Whittaker & Mr. Randle. W.  Sat a while with them. 

On my return called at Rode Heath. Miss Dawson informed me that having mentioned to poor Penlington that they had seen one side up to Rode Hall, he expressed a great wish to see one, in case I called.  I went upstairs & found him in bed, but not so much reduced as I expected to find him.  He spoke in a strong voice, and seemed in to be in good spirits.  I staid with him so long as I thought it prudent without fatiguing him.  But I fear there is no chance of any . . .   In the evening Mr. Skerrett with Ann & Betsy & Miss P . . .arrived, the Carriage having gone for them this morning.

Saturday 3 July 1824

After breakfast went to the South end of the Tunnel mouth to inspect the progress of the work.  As I was returning, Mr Telford arrived, who joined me & with whom I had much conversation.  I soon after left him as he was proceeding on his survey, he having promised to dine at Linley Wood tomorrow.

Sunday 4 July 1824

At home.  Service.  Soon after William Bent arrived on Brewery Affairs & with whom engaged some time.  Mr. Telford, Mr. Potter & Mr. Jas. Potter also came to dinner.  The day passed agreeably, & well.  They returned to Longport in the Evening.

Monday 5 July 1824

Set off early to Stone.  Took Mr. Wilkinson with me in the Carriage having him requested to do so by Mr. Thos. Sparrow.  Engaged all day on Select Committee.  Mr Telford having strongly recommended making a Towing path for horses through the intended Tunnel, we determined to call a Meeting of the . . . Committee, to determine after this important question, & which was Thursday next accordingly.

Tuesday 6 July 1824

Returned home, left soon after, went back on case and of some papers Mr. Telford's Report on the  S. . . Meeting which I wanted, bur which had been left at Stone to be copied.  Took a hasty dinner at Stone, & arrived at farm in the Evening, but much Fatigued.

Wednesday 7 July 1824

At home.  Closely engaged all morning on Navigation Papers preparatory to attending Meeting of the General Committee tomorrow.

Thursday 8 July 1824

At Stone, attending Meeting where Resolution came to construct the Tunnel through Harecastle with a Towing path.  Returned home in the Evening, late much tired.

Friday 9 July 1824

At home.  Received from Robert Heath the intelligence of the death of poor Penlington & he had expired at about half past eight o'clock this morning, and a request that I would come down tomorrow morning, Miss Penlington being anxious to see me. 

Afterwards engaged on Navigation Papers & considering whether the late powers of the late and former Acts would enable us to make the intended Tunnel, with a Towing Path.  Began mowing the meadow.  In the evening sent to Rode Heath, when I received back on the page requesting me to see them at eleven tomorrow morning.

Saturday 10 July 1824

Wrote to William Brownsword in reply to a Letter received from him relative to a Legacy under the late Mrs. Tollet's will.  Wrote to Mr. Stevens Music Master Newcastle with an order on Hemming's for £10.10 in full of his account. 

Went to Rode Heath pursuant to appointment, but Miss Penlington was so unwell that she could not see me, but Miss Dawson & Miss Wrench expressed her desire that I would give such directions and make such arrangements satisfactory the Funeral as I might judge . . .,& to request which was the object of her writing to see me..

After some conversation with the Ladies, I said that I would come down again tomorrow Evening, in the hope that Miss Penlington might then be able to see me, & that they might desire Mr. Butters of Nantwich, who was to furnish the Funeral also attends. 

Mr. Skerrett left us about noon on his return home.  John Taylor relative to his claim to Foleshill Estate when I appointed him to come again on Monday with Memorial from the Manchester & Liverpool Rail Road Projections to the . . . of Liverpool Service .  Wrote to Mr. Telford.  In the evening went again to Rode Heath with Mr. Butters the undertaker & made all the Arrangements respecting the Funeral, which was fixed for Friday the 16 inst.

Page 149.  1824  July

Monday 12 July 1824

At home.  Continued Mourning.  John Taylor relative to his claim to an Estate called Foleshill in Warwickshire or Leicestershire, and from the property of George Taylor, whom he brought a statement of the bills etc. of his family from which I made out his judgement claim by descent & a copy of which I gave to Mr. Yates the overseer of the arrears of the . . of Rode, who accompanied Taylor in order that he might experience the same with the Registers.  Taylor now receives Parish Relief.

Tuesday 13 July 1824

Busy in the Hay.  Went to Rode heath finally to arrange respecting the Funeral etc.  Miss Penlington on my mentioning the necessity of her making a will, said she had already signed a paper with these . . ., & which on my asking to look at she immediately went to fetch, but after keeping me waiting a quarter of an hour more she came back saying it was done in so rough a manner that she would make another will or making some excuse to that effect. 

She asked me to make a Will so far as to secure the Debts, and she could then do what she liked with the rest.  But this I declined, recommending it to her to send for Mr. Skerrett of Sandbach, whose name she had mentioned, as soon as the Funeral was over, to make a Will in a proper & regular manner.  There was an air of Mystery, or something about this refusal to show me the paper, that I did not like & which could not best raise a suspicion that all was not quite right.

Wednesday 14 July 1824

At home.  Busy in the hay & on various matters.

Thursday 15 July 1824

Went to Newcastle & called upon Mr. Fenton relative to the Shrewsbury Reservoir business, when he said that on a consent in writing being required by Mr. Adderley for the alteration of the Road is proposed, met Mr. Bateman having the small slip of Land he thought no difficulty would attend the work being begun upon whenever it was desired.  On my return, busy in the hay.  Wrote a letter to Miss Penlington to be delivered after the Funeral.  In the evening finished carrying the hay in the upper Meadow, an abundant crop & been easily got.

Friday 16 July 1824

Attended the Funeral of poor Penlington whose remains were deposited in the Family vault in Sandbach Church.  The Funeral was very repectable & properly conducted.  The arrangements had been left almost entirely to myself.  The order was as in the following page

Page 150.  1824  July

Rev? & Mrs Butters.

Mr. Holland (in a chair) 

Hearse 

Mourning Coach.  Mr. & Mrs. Caldwell,  Mr. James Hill.

Rev. Mr. Salmon.  J. Caldwell in our Carriage

Mr. Bayley Mr. Lowndes, in Mr. Salmon's Carriage

Revd. Mr. Lawton.  Mr. Morris, in Mr. J. Lawton's Carriage

Revd. Mr. Richardson, Revd. Mr. Carter, in Mr. Morris's Carriage

Tenants etc. 

 (on the coffin is written, William Penlington July 9 1824 Age 23 (37?) years.)

Bearers on the left - Mr. Morris, Mr. Lowndes & Mr. Caldwell, on the right Rev. Mr. Lawton, Mr. Bayley, & Rev. Mr. Salmon.

I had some difficulty in prevailing upon the Ladies to let me give precedence to Mr. Salmon.  Mr. Charles Lawton, & Dr.Belcombe were invited but could not attend.  I gave the Letter which I had written to Miss Penlington to Mr. Butters at Sandbach, (who was going back to Rode ) and requested him to desire Miss Dawson to give it to Miss Penlington tomorrow morning. 

On my arrival at home was Mr. Stamford who had come from Stafford Sessions.  Mr. Clive of Tunstall called relative to a comparison being made by the Navigation Company for water discharged from his coal mine into the Summit Round.

Saturday 17 July 1824

Bringing in the Hay & preparing for Journey to Liverpool etc. on Navigation Survey.

Sunday 18 July 1824

In the morning at Talk Chapel.  In the evening went to Stone & met Sir George Chetwynd & Mr. Lister.

Monday 19 July 1824

Set off early on our Journey to Liverpool, & slept at Middlewich.

Tuesday 20 July 1824

Proceeded to the Boat to Runcorn, where we called upon Capt. Bendshaw & with whom we had a long conference relative to the Manchester & Liverpool Rail Road etc.  From Runcorn to Liverpool in the Steam Packet & arrived between 8 & 9 at the Waterloo Hotel.

Wednesday 21

Engaged at Liverpool.  Mr. Hollinshead, Mr. Jonathan Hollinshead & Mr. Roscoe dined, & a long conversation & discussion took place relative to the Rail Road Schemes, & particularly upon that Manchester to Liverpool (Page 151) when Mr. Jonathan H. directed must open the necessity of the Canal Communicators being made as perfect as possible, and particularly of improved accommodation & greater dispatch being afforded by the Bridgewater & . .  .Canal & without .which he was of opinion that the Rail Road project between the two places would ultimately be carried into effect.

Thursday 22 July 1824

We all set off on our Return home, & I arrived at Linley Wood between 2 & 3 with Mr. Vaughan, who set me down & then went home.  Sir George C. & Mr. Lister who was to have dined, & slept at Linley Wood being prevented, went on.  Mr. Wilbraham, Mr. R. Williamson, Dr. Northam & Revd. Mr. Mainwaring dined, & we had a very agreeable day, everybody appearing to be pleased and in great humour.  The Wilbraham's, who on returning to the sentiments, parted with us with this evening with expression of friendship and good will.

Friday 23 July 1824

At home but unwell being much fatigued with my journey & Exertions.  Finished the Hay Harvest, which has been got without any Rain. & carried by instead a single drop, from first to last.  The crop was very good, & the quality of the grass much improved since the last year.

Saturday 24 July 1824

At home.  Mrs Martin of Newcastle & her son John called.  Unwell from fatigue & over hurry of mind & Body.

Sunday 25 July 1824

At home.  Service.  Copied the Resolution of the Select Committee granting a remission of the Tonnage & dues upon Stone & other materials which may be brought along the Canal for the purpose of rebuilding Stoke Chase to be sent to Mr. Tomlinson tomorrow & writing letter to him, & both of which was delivered to Mr. Bickerton to take to Cliffe Ville.  Received Minutes of the Survey from Mr. Vaughan.

Monday 26 July 1824

Went to Newcastle on various matters.  I returned the little bay horse to Mr. More, who . . . the off fore leg.  In the evening received a message from Miss Penlington that Miss Dawson would call upon me tomorrow, which I answered by a future appointment to go . . . of to Rode Heath tomorrow morning at 11 o'clock.  Received a letter from Mr. Tomlinson very handsomely expressing his sense of what had been done by the Select Committee relative to Stoke Church.

Tuesday 27 July 1824

Went to Rode Heath pursuant to appointment I had a conversation with Miss Penlington ( Miss J. Rowbotham & Miss Dawson staying in the room all the time) relative to her affairs, when I gave the best advice in my power recommending Goodman to be retained, a list of Debts to be made out, & the Estates to be . . .in order that Miss Penlington might judge whether it would be better to sell or borrow further money on the Mortgage. 

It was mentioned twice that Mr. Skerrett had made another new will but not the slightest intention was given me how she had disposed of her property nor who were her Executors.  Miss . . .,after my long communication the family, & her own previous declaration that she wished to consult me in any thing could not change then the suffering (Page 152.) which I had before felt, & on reflection determined me not to make the matter further only I was satisfied that the Will, at least, contained nothing that was unjust.

Wednesday 28 July 1824

At home.  Took down the Oak tree which grew in the land bought from Mr. Jenks, at the end of Swallow Moor Wood, & which produced a good effort by opening to view the ground behind.  In the evening Miss Dawson & Miss Wrench called.  No forward on Miss Penlington's affairs, where I explained myself to her relative to the Will, when she said, that Miss Penlington had no wish to conceal anything from me, & that she considered as her greatest friend & support, & that she had only been restrained from speaking to me about the Will by a fear of giving me unnecessary trouble.

Thursday 29 July 1824

At home.  Engaged on Navigation Papers Revising & copying for entry in the Book Minutes of proceedings of the Select Committee.  Miss Dawson & Miss Wrench called, the former leaving Miss Penlington's Will for my perusal & consideration.  As a favoured appraisement of the personal property, . . .Furniture etc. which is very inconsiderable, . . .to Miss Penligton who is now indisposed, we thought this might be omitted.  Eliza received by the Post a Letter from Arthur Marsh with the truly gratifying Intelligence of the birth of a boy, and of our dear Ann, the child being well.

Friday 30 July 1824

Having opened Miss Penlington's Will this morning & finding to my great suffering that subject to the payment of the Debts and Legacies she had advised me . . . of the section of her real Estate to me in fear, after the demise of the two Miss Rowbotham's & Miss Dawson to whom such . . . be given for their homes & the life of the . . ..  I took not a moment in writing to Miss Penlington entirely declining this mark of her kindness but saying that I would if she allowed me consider with her what might be the proposed dissatisfaction of this show of the . . .& that I would call upon her tomorrow evening. 

Received letter from Wm. Bent by a Messenger informing me that Mr. Ryle & (Page 152a) Mr Wood of Macclesfield intended calling upon me tomorrow relative to an intended Rail Road from Macclesfield to the Red Bull Lawton.  In the morning I had managed . . . & in part copying the minutes of our late survey of Canal in order for entering in the Book.

Saturday 31 July 1824

Engaged on the Navigation Papers.  Mr. Ryle & Mr. Wood called at Linley Wood & with whom I had a long conference relative to a communication being given between the Town of Macclesfield & the Trent & Mersey Canal, to which they said it was the wish of the inhabitants should be effected by a Canal or Railway from Macclesfield to the Red Bull at Lawton. 

They stated that the Trade & Population of Macclesfield (the latter of which was . . .at 2800 & they contended were entitled to consideration & required accommodation, but that they generally professed a direct communication with the Trent & Mersey Canal, to a connection with the Peake Forest ) which had been suggested and indeed offered, or to any other. 

They stated that so far as relates to Lawton with what place the Tender of Macclesfield is principally carried on the personal conveyance of goods is by land to the Red Bull & from thence by the Canals.  I think the the goods with Liverpool is carried partly by Land Carriage from Northwich to which place Goods are brought by River Horses instead of by the way of the Reservoir owing to some differences about the Freight. 

The Gentlemen repeatedly & in the most unequivocal manner disclaimed any . . . balance declaring that this official . . . nothing on view but the accommodation of Macclesfield.  That in . . . of the facilities given to the Peake be furnished with coals from this side of the country of a better quality than whom which are now used, and that there would be a heavy tonnage of the . . . Stone, which from its excellent quality requires nothing but a facility of carriage to be . . .onto great

This page was loose.  It had been cut out and then rewritten into the diary.

Page 152b 

use and consumption.  I told the Gentlemen that I could say nothing myself I think they with great candour & solidness acknowledged that . . . on the part of the Trent & Mersey Canal. 

We thought when their plan was realised & they set . . .  with. . . . . . . .  . .the company statement or . . . . that they might favour one with before the Select Committee of the Trent & Mersey Canal & who I was persuaded would pay all due attention to the subject: observing at the same time that something would give greater facility to the object they had in mind that such an . . . or security . . . be satisfactory to the Trent & Mersey & Bridgewater Canals. 

Henshall the Tenant of Miss P. called to know whether we would . . . the price of land lying within their Estate at £500 or not.  I said I would go back to Miss Penlington & he sent from me one in a day or two. 

In the Evening went down to Rode Heath and again represented to Miss Penlington that I could on no account whatever accept the benefit entered me by her will, & beg her that she would consider that other . . .to make of the part of her prosperity.  The agent then argued in the strongest measure, saying that it had been the wish of her father & Brother & of her late Brother & that she could not be satisfied in her mind to making alteration. 

This known I told both her & Miss Dawson, who was present, must be done, & said I would speak to Mr. Skerrett her solicitor about it.  On maintaining the Land, she intended to think it right . .  ., but left me to do what I thought at best in this, but everything also saying that should not find but myself capable advising or doing anything for her.

This page was loose and found inside the 1813-1821 diary.  It would appear that James Caldwell cut it out and then recopied it from and into the 1821-1825 diary?

Page 15.  1824  July

Mr. Wood of Macclesfield intended calling upon me tomorrow relative to an intended Railway from Macclesfield to the Red Bull at Lawton.  In the evening I had been engaged expressing & impart copying the Minutes of the late Survey of the Canal by the Select Committee in order for entry in the Book.

Saturday 31 July 1824 cont.

At home.  Mr. Ryle & Mr. Wood called with whom I had a long conference relative to a communication from Mac to the Trent & Mersey Navigation near Red Bull at Lawton by Canal or the Railway & which they stated to be the wish of the inhabitants in preference to a communication with the Peake Forest Canal, or any other.  After hearing about the Gentlemen had to . . .I told them that I could say nothing myself on the part of the Trent & Mersey Navigation, & which they with great candour acknowledged that they did not expect, but when they had finished themselves as to the necessary facts & details.  I would with great pleasure lay any Statement or communication before the Select Committee and who I was persuaded would pay all due attendance to the subject. 

Henshall, Miss Penlington's Tenant called to know whether we would purchase the price of Land belonging to Mr. Wolfe & for which he said that nothing less than £55 would be taken.  In the evening went down to Rode Heath, & again represented to Miss Penlington in the presence of Miss Dawson that I could on no account whatever accept the benefit under her will, & begged she would consider what other disposition might be last to make fit.  She argued the matter being in the strongest manner saying that it had been the wish of her Father, Mother, & Brother, & that she could not satisfied in her mind to make any alteration.  This, however, I told her must be done, & desired again that she would consider of it accordingly.  On speaking to her about the Land she thought it might be best to prevent it getting into any troublesome hands, when I said that I would purchase it, & I would go & see Mr. Skerrett on Monday.

August

Sunday 1^st August 1824

At home.  Service.

Monday 2 August 1824

Went to Sandbach.  Saw Mr. Skerrett & agreed with him for the (Page 154) purchase of the Land for £500 & desired him to prepare a conveyance to me accordingly. 

I also arranged with him to pay off their Mortgage debt, as soon as they had proved the Will of the late Mr. Darlington, & am assigned of the Mortgage could be preferred. 

On asking his opinion as to the choice of a person to value the Estate & he strongly recommended Mr. Heaton.  On mentioning Miss Penlington's will to him, & saying that I could not accept the demise of the money the . . .he said that he followed only Miss Penlington's instructions & which he showed me in writing.  I mentioned the collision, he said there appeared to be a great dislike to them, & which he was not satisfied at. 

Whilst at Mr. Skerrett's I received a message from a Meeting of the Executors of the Brereton & also of the Linley Lane Turnpike Roads, who were then assembled at the George Inn & suggesting my attendance, & who I attended accordingly.  Saw Mr. Twemlow, who said he had not been able to ascertain whether the Land through which the Navigation Culvert ( if made ) was to pass the joint or several property but that he would speak to Mr. Armistead about it. 

Returned to dinner & had the great delight to find my dearest Emma with her little Baby arrived in perfect health & happiness.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan & sent by the Post the Select Committee Minutes of the 5th and 8th of July last.

Tuesday 3 August 1824

In the morning at home, then went to Newcastle Races.  Dined at the culinary at the Roebuck, which was . . & respectably attended, upwards of 50 sitting down to dinner.  In the morning heavy partial showers but the afternoon was particularly fine.  Sir John . . . attended but Mr. Dennison was gone abroad.

Wednesday 4 August 1824

At home.  A person called relative to the Barn piping which Mr. Furnival wished to lay along the Canal Towing Path at . . .& who showed me the p. . of 20 Mansfields & Sir John Stanley.  Difficulty when I told him that nothing further (Page 155.) could be done till the meeting of the Select Committee, of which, if necessary Mr. Furnival should be informed, nor could I hold out any expectation of his wishes being complied with. 

The Person who called said that Mrs. Vaughan who he had seen would (come?) to me in a day or two.  In the course of conversation he said that Mr. Canning & Mr. . . . would support the Railway from Manchester to Liverpool: & offered me some shares, which I of course declined.  Being unwell and a good deal fatigued I gave up attending Newcastle Races today.  In the evening fine mild rain.

Thursday 5 August 1824

In the morning at home.  Dr. & Mrs. Northam called.  Afterwards went to the Pottery Races, taking Dr. Northam with me from Newcastle in the Carriage.  Dined at the culinary at the Swan Hotel.  Saw the first Race but heavy Rain having come on, & being a good deal tired, Dr. Northam & I came away.  I received a . . .from the Bailiff at Hanley, to attend upon another special Ferry Case at Stafford.  Found at Linley Wood a letter from Mr. Vaughan.  John Shuker of Burslem to consult me as to his claim to the property of Wm. Shuker died whom I desired him in the first place to procure a copy of the late Mr. Shuker's will.

Friday 6 August 1824

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan.  Then managed transplanting Turnips into the orchard in Linley Meadow.  In the afternoon received the melancholy intelligence of the death of Miss Penlington, who died this morning about ten o'clock.  She went to bed much better than usual, having supped with a good appetite, & being very cheerful.  She went comfortably to sleep, but waked a little after eight in a fit of apoplexy, of which she had . . .& died in the last fit about 20 minutes past ten.  Thus in the short space of four weeks the Brother and Sister, the former only 37 & the latter 35 years of age were cut off, and this Family of the Penlingtons became ex. . . ,except only Mrs. May Penlington who still survives.  The Ladies having sent word that they were anxious to see me as soon as convenient.  I appointed to be with them at eleven tomorrow morning.

Saturday 7 August 1824

Went down to Rode heath at 11.  Saw the two Miss . . . & Miss Dawson, who confirmed the above particulars.  Considered the arrangements for the Funeral, which we agreed should be as near the same to those of her late Brothers, as circumstances would admit, but Miss Wrench & Mr. Butters being expected at Rode heath tomorrow.  I promised again on their arrival and of which they were to inform me.  The Ladies informed me that Miss Penlington had been at Sandbach on Tuesday on account of the . . .to her late Brother & that she had done which was necessary on the business under the direction of Mr. Skerrett.  On asking Miss Dawson whether Miss P. had made any alteration in her will, she said she had not, but had expressed to the last her wish that I should have what she had given me.  In the evening Miss Stamford arrived.

Sunday 8 August 1824

In the morning at home.  Mr. John Martin came.  Service.  In the afternoon went to Rode Heath & finally settled with Miss Wrench, Miss Dawson & Mr. Butters the arrangements of the Funeral.  I mentioned to Miss Wrench who was not before aware of it, that she was an Executor under the will. 

It was thought that it might be proper for Mr. Skerrett who had prepared the will from Miss Penlington's personal instructions to attend & read the same, & take the necessary directions for proving it. 

On my return, found a Letter from Mr. Keen, informing me that the judge expected the attendance of the Special Jurors in the Cause of Roedam Stables on . . .on which I had been summoned on Thursday last.  I wrote to Mr. Keen immediately saying that I hoped the death of a Friend would be admitted by the Judge as as apology for my non attendance.  Independent of this . . . , I did not feel myself well enough to encounter the Journey & Hearing.

Monday 9 August 1824

The Revd. Mr. Carter with Yates & John Taylor who brought the Register of Baptisms from Newchapel, but the name of Wm. having been written in one of them, in view of the name of John through which a pen had been struck, I requested Yates to refer to the Copy of the Register sent to Stafford in 1776, & then see me again. 

Afterwards Mr. George Martin to whom I paid a years rent for the good of . . .upon Foxholes Estate, but nothing passed about buying or selling.  I explained to him to look at the circumstances of the Reference & that I was to pay one half.  John Martin went.  Mr. Vaughan came to dinner & with whom engaged all evening on Navigation business particularly the intended Meeting of the Delegates etc. etc.

Tuesday 10 August 1824

After breakfast & a further conversation on Navigation Business, Mr. Vaughan left Linley Wood.  John Taylor & Yates again relative to Taylor Title, & it appearing that a copy of the Newchapel Register was at Lichfield not Stafford.  I directed them to apply at the former place.  Miss Stamford & Emma went to Newcastle.  Received from the Revd. Carter a present of a spaniel puppy, which he had offered to me on Monday, & which had been intended for the late Mr. Penlington.

Wednesday 11 August 1824

At home..  Mr. Potter called, with whom engaged a considerable time on Navigation Business.  Delivered to Mr. Potter a form of consent & he signed by Mr. . . on the back of a Plan of the intended Reservoir in Knypersley Valley, but which he was previously to show to Mr. Fenton for his approbation on the part of Mr. Bateman.  Also gave Mr. Potter the Minutes of the Orders of the Select Committee which required his attention previous to the next Meeting.  Dr. & Mrs. Northam dined.

Thursday 12 August 1824

Went down to Rode heath to make the final arrangements respecting the Funeral.. Miss Stamford & I dined at Mrs. Kinnersley's at Clough Hall. Miss, Mr.& Mrs. Adams & Mr. Johnstons Sons of Dr. Johnston of Birmingham, the Revd. Mr. Mainwaring & Revd. Mr. Lawton.

Friday 13 August 1824

Went early to Rode Heath & attended the Funeral at Sandbach of poor Miss Penlington

Revd. Mr. Batter, Revd. Mr. Carter, Mr. Holland in Mr. Salmon's Carriage

Williamson Revd. Mr. Richardson

 Revd. Mr Lawton Mr. Bayley

 Mr.Cartwood Rev d. . . .

Mr. & Mrs. . . Mr. Tunstall in a Mourning Coach

(On the coffin it read Mary Penlington aged 35 years)

Page 158 : 1824  August

August : On my return brought Mr. Carter to Snape.  Found Miss Moreton at Linley Wood.  Received a brace of Grouse from Mr. Bent. 

Saturday 14 August 1824

Went to Rode Heath this morning & met Mr. J Skerrett, who read over the late Miss Penlington's will in the presence of Mr. Thos. Collinson, Mr. & Mrs Tunstall, Miss Wrench, Miss Dawson, Miss Jane Rostherne & myself, and to which no objection or complaint was made. 

On mentioning to Mr. J. Collinson apart that I had not been consulted by Miss P. as to her will & knew nothing of the contents till she sent up to me shortly after it had been executed: he said that he knew well the Terms.  I had surrendered to the Family & that as to me and that a complaint could be made.  I asked him to furnish me with a list of Mrs. M. Penlington's Demand ( which he said he would do) & I would then consider what was proper to be done.  Stamford arrived from Shrewsbury Assizes.

Sunday 15 August 1824

In the morning, service at home.  In the afternoon attended service at Talk Chapel. 

Monday 16 August 1824

Went to Sandbach, taking Miss Dawson & Miss Wrench in the Carriage, to hear proved the Will of the late Miss Penlington, but it appearing that it would be necessary for another . . . to be taken out to her late Brother, and present proving the Will with this be done. 

Had a long conference with Miss Skerrett on these affairs & from which I was but to apprehend that the Debt would turn out to be a greater amount than was expected.  Mrs. Tollet & Miss Eliza & Miss Eliza Wedgwood, Dr. & Miss Northam & Revd. Mr. Mainwaring dined.  Mr. Tollet was prevented from coming. 

Tuesday 17 August 1824

At noon the Tollets left us.  Engaged on various matters, Navigation etc. Wrote to the Rev. Mr. Hill & sent him the money from which I had obtained for him, the Administration of the late Rev. Mr. Moreton for Dilapidations in Buildings belonging to Talk Curacy. 

Received by the Post Letter from Mr. Littleton with a Copy of Mr. Greaves Report on Railways etc. Locomotive, Steam Engines

Page 159 : 1824  August

Wednesday 18 August 1824

At home.  Closely engaged at the desk all morning.  Wrote to Mr. Bourcair Grand Junction Canal Office & to Mr. Vaughan.  Wrote to Mr ...  of . . . Read Mr. Greaves Report preparatory to writing to Mr. Littleton. 

Thursday 19 August 1824

John Taylor & Mr. Yates relative to Taylors Claim to the Estates in Warwickshire when Taylor told me that he had seen both the Mr. Pickford's & that Mr. Rushford had promised to send him in a few days all the Documents in his possession which could throw weight upon the business: and for which I advised him to submit & then see me again. 

Considered again the Steam Engine & Rail road Report, & wrote to Mr. Littleton.  Wrote also to Mr. Heaton requesting him to undertake the valuation of the Bostock House & Rent from the Estates Wrote to R. Bent.  Engaged closely greater part of the day.  Received from Mr. Holland of Sandbach, his account against the late Miss Penlington.  Miss Sarah Wedgwood came to dinner. 

Friday 20 August 1824

At home.  After breakfast Miss Sarah Wedgwood left us going on a visit to Eliza Roscoe.  Looked at part of Daniel Johnson's Farm.  In the evening Letters from Sir George Chetwynd & Mr. Vaughan. 

Saturday 21 August 1824

At home.  Wrote to Sir George Chetwynd & Mr. Vaughan. James Bent came to dinner.  Heavy Rain.  Letter from Mr. Collinson & one from Mr. Tomlinson with thanks from the Stoke Church Committee.  Letter from Sir G. C. proposing Tuesday 7 September for meeting at Stone & being the day I had mentioned in my Letter to him. 

Sunday 22 August 1824

At home on Service. Afterwards rode on horseback with Mr. Bent to Alsager.  Wrote to Sir G. C. finally finding that 7 September for the meeting of Selection Committee. Letter from Revd. Mr. Hall with Revd. For Talk Curacy Dilapidations.  In the Evening J. Bent returned.  It has always been my desire to see Religion treated as a rational thing.  Free from all about duty and folly.  Dr. Sykes.

Page 160 : 1824  August

Monday 23 August 1824

At home considered & made Minutes of business for the next Select Committee.  In the evening letter from Mr. Vaughan. 

Tuesday 24 August 1824

Wrote to Mr. Vaughan.  Mr. John Wilson of Newcastle called with Case & opinion relative to the Tolls upon the Brereton Green Turnpike Road & advising with him thereon when I recommended it to him to show the Case & Open to Mr. Ford. 

Miss Jane Rosthorne, Miss Wrench & Miss Dawson called, & with whom all advising relative to Miss Penlington's affairs, & the payment of the Debts.  Also engaged looking over the old papers in my possession in relating to these affairs. 

Mr. Mayer the Farrier also called, recommended turning the little bay horse out for the winter.  In the evening letter from Mr. Peake requesting my attendance on Friday next at   Inn on assessed Taxes.  Received from Mr. Ward of Newcastle for my perusal, the Draft of the . . . & Conveyance of the House showed on Newcastle Marsh purchased by me for the Trustees & Executors of the late Mr. Bent.  Received by this Post from Dr. Holland the melancholy intelligence of the death of the poor little infant in Whitehall Place. (Anne's M-C's first son)

Wednesday 25 August 1824

At home.  Looked over the Drafts sent to me by Mr. Ward & wrote to him thereon there being an Error in respect of the purchase money.  Mr. Allen stone mason with whom arranged the steps of the Hall Door.  Engaged on sundry papers. 

Mr. Short the Surgeon from Betley came to extract a tooth for Emma. In the evening received from Sir George Chetwynd copies of affidavits which had been filed by the Department in the Caldon Businesses. 

Thursday 26 August 1824

Perused & considered the Affidavits received last night from Sir Geo. Chetwynd.  Afterwards called at Trentham.  Saw Lord & Lady Stafford & Mr. Govern from all of whom I experienced a particularly kind & friendly Reception. 

Had a conversation with Lord S. about the projected Rail Roads, & who expressed his perfect . . . with my observation that the true course was to render the Canal as perfect as possible.  He approved much of the new Tunnel being constructed with a Towing path for Horse.  Lady S. expressed their hope to see me all being well there, then Dr. Holland of whom she spoke in the highest of terms & said that if ill she shall consult him was down, & said she had advised Emma in Town to mention this to us. 

They all spoke with great friendship about Stamford's business, & that it would have given Lord S. very great pleasure to have had him in his firm & to give him the Appointment.  On my return brought the then Miss Wedgwood of Maer Hall in the Carriage from Newcastle.  Harry Wedgwood also came to dinner. 

Friday 27 August 1824

Rode Heath all morning examining papers & making out a List of Debts with Miss Wrench & Miss Dawson, & when they both expressed a wish that I would purchase the Estates, but I told them that there would be time enough to consider this, when the Estates had been valued and the amount of the Debts ascertained; but that I should be desirous to do whatever might be most beneficial to all the Parties interested. 

Letter, in the evening from Sir George Chetwynd informing me that all disputes relating to his Father's affairs had been amicably settled.  In the morning Miss Morgan called.  Sent Affidavits received from Sir George Chetwynd on the Caldon Matters to Misses Sparrow & Wilkinson. 

Saturday 28 August 1824

Engaged on papers, Penlingtons Affairs etc.  The Wedgwoods left us, taking our Carriage to Newcastle.  In the evening Letter from Mr. Ward of Newcastle acknowledging the Error in the Drafts which I had pointed out.  Wrote to Sir George Chetwynd. 

Sunday 29 August 1824

At home.  Sent a Letter to Sir George Chetwynd.  Service.  In the afternoon Dr. Holland arrived & in the Evening Stamford arrived from Buxton. 

Monday 30 August 1824

John Taylor &Yates called relative to the Taylors claim, but not having heard any thing from Mr. Pickford, we thought it had best for M. Yates to go immediately to Manchester & speak to Mr. Thos. Pickford upon the business, & to know finally what they meant to do.  Mr. Wilson of Newcastle with case & a second opinion of Mr. Venables relative to the payment of second Tolls on the Brereton Green Road & to ask my opinion thereon in perusing & considering the Act.  I agreed in opinion with Mr. Venables that the Toll was payable & respect of the Horse & not in respect of the coach, as I look greater a different ground or view of the case to what Mr. Venables had done they coming to the same conclusion. 

Mrs. Robinson of W. . .& son Charles called with a Letter from M. Henry Robinson suggesting Dr. Holland's guard affairs with Mr. Canning to appoint him to the situation of a Carrier in the Tonnage Office.  On mentioning the matter after they were gone to Dr. H. he said that (Page 162) - it was an enviable professional Rule with him never to interfere in matters of this nature, & that it would in this instance be particularly objectionable from Mr. Canning having so lately been his Patient.  Dr. Holland & Stamford called at Grantham.  Began cutting wheat in the upper Hollins Ground. 

Tuesday 31 August 1824

John Taylor again with a Dis . . . from a younger Brother of the Family & who I satisfied that the former was the Heir at Line.  Application from Danl. Finney for the House & Garden on Butt Lane, when I said that I would make Enquiry about him. 

Mr. & Mrs. Chas. Lawton called.  Delivered to Mr. C. Lawton the Plan of the Lawton Estate.  He said that Mr. Williams told him a few days ago that no Reasoning had been suffered, but that this would be done at the next Chester Assizes & he understood & wished that every thing & be satisfactorily selected.  I then showed him what I had before shown to him & to Mr. Williams 'the Transcript of the Recovery'.  He said it was being extraordinary, but that he should see Mr. Williams again in a day or two & if he would speak to him on the business if he had still any doubts on the Recovery he might look at the Transcript again& which I said he was at liberty to do.  Mr. Jos. Wedgwood & Dr. Northam dined, the former staid all night. 

September

Wednesday 1^st September 1824

Sent the Report of the Caldon Case to Mr. Wilkinson of Newcastle per Bickerton.  At home all day, busy cutting wheat.  In the evening Dr. Holland left us on his return to Town.  I took him in the Carriage to Talk on the Hill, then I parted with him about half after nine o'clock he going by the Coborough Coach. 

Derby Mercury
Wednesday 1 September 1824

Arrivals at Buxton.

 - - Lady Hyde Parker and party - Colonel Hacker - -J.Stamford Caldwell, - - 

Diary of James Caldwell continues...

Thursday 2 September 1824

At home.  Navigation Papers.  Very hot day.  In the afternoon Thunder but very little Rain.

Page 163 : 1824  September

Friday 3 September 1824

Daniel Johnson paying money £100 on account of arrears of Rent.  Afterwards at Rode Heath on the Late Miss Penlington's affairs examining statement of Debts etc. etc.  In the Evening Letter from Mr. Davenport of Capesthorne. 

Saturday 4 September 1824

Engaged writing long Letter to Mr. Davenport on Navigation Affairs, proposed Rail Roads etc. in reply to the one received from him last night.  At home all day.  Miss Stamford & Emma called at Clough Hall & Lawton Hall. 

Sunday 5 September 1824

Emma & her dear little Baby went to Nantwich.  Stamford also went there on his way to Chester Assizes.  William Bent came to dinner & with whom a long & satisfactory conversation relative to our Brewery Concerns.  He returned to Marsh Field in the Evening. 

Monday 6 September 1824

Engaged on papers preparatory to going to Stone tomorrow.  Called upon Dr. Belcombe of York, who was at Lawton Hall, but as he was just sat down to dinner, I left a Card & did not see him.  On my return I met with Mr. C. Lawton at his farm, but he said nothing of the business of the Title, or whether he had seen Mr. Williams. Indeed there was scarcely an opportunity, as he had some people with him. 

Tuesday 7 September 1824

Went to Stone, & engaged closely on the Select Committee, but got through the whole business as to enable us to return home at night. 

Wednesday 8 September 1824

At home, & in the house all day, it being excessive Rain.  Read part of Scott's 'Red Gauntlet'.  Wrote to Mr. Bent promising my vote & Miss Stamford's. 

Thursday 9 September 1824

At home.  The Revd. Mr. Aitkens called relative to his having Dividends, then I explained to him the necessity of a fresh letter of Administration being taken out to the late Mr. Penlington before a Rect. could be given.  Received from Rode Heath sundry other Bills due from the late Mr. P.& his sister. 

Friday10 September 1824

At home.  Various matters.  Made out List of Debts in Penlington's affairs & engaged on these papers. 

Saturday 11 September 1824

At home.  Engaged again on the Penlington Papers.  In the evening Stamford returned from Chester Assizes.

Page 164 : 1824  September

Sunday12 September 1824

At home.  Service. 

Monday13 September 1824

At home.  Engaged on Navigation Papers.  Carried the wheat, 108 sheaves, from the Land lying up to Mr. Johnsons.  Mrs. Tollet, Miss Tollet, Miss Hemmings & Miss Jervis called.  Very unwell & suffering much. 

Tuesday 14 September 1824

At home.  Engaged again on Navigation Papers.  Copied Minutes of the last Select Committee Meeting to be sent to Mr. Vaughan for entry in the Book.  Wrote to Mr. Telford informing him of the time of the General Assembly in order, that if he thought it necessary he might attend. 

Wrote also to Mr. Robert Heath.  Wrote also to Miss Skerrett of Sandbach relative to the fresh Letters of Administration in Penlington affairs. 

Carried oats out of the B . . field adjoining the Turnpike Road.  Still very unwell, Miss Stamford went to Betley Hall.  By this evening's Post received a Letter from Dr. Holland informing me of the miserable & melancholy circumstances of the Banking House in Berner Street [Marsh, Sibbald and Co] which having been obliged to suspend their payments, owing to the nefarious conduct of one of the Partners, Mr. Fauntleroy. Eliza, also had a Letter from our poor Anne,on whom affliction has indeed of late laid her heavy hand, but whose fortitude and admirable conduct on these trying occasions appear to be above all promise. May God support and help her! and enable us to pour valour into wounds which alas! we cannot heal. 

Wednesday 15 September 1824

At home, but not very fit for business.  Eliza unwell.  In the evening received a note from Dr. Holland written at Newcastle on his way to Knutsford, with intelligence that poor Anne continued unwell, and acting on a manner that reflected upon her the greatest honour. 

Thursday 16 September 1824

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan & sent him the copy of the Minutes of the last Select Committee Meeting.  Dr. Bent & Mr. Nigel Heathcote called.  Miss Stamford returned from Betley Hall.  Received by the Post printed advertisement of a Meeting at Macclesfield to consider of an Application to Parliament for a canal from a transfer to the Trent & Mersey Canal at Lawton.  A Letter from Mr. Vaughan informing me that Mr. Webb would meet me at Stone on Monday next to examine the Cash and Treasurers Account.

Page 165 : 1824  September

Friday 17 September 1824

At home, Mr. Bishop called relative to obtaining the Navigation consent to pipes being laid under the Towing path of the Canal for the purpose of carrying the Gas with which it has been purchased to supply the Potteries.  When after considerable conversation I promised to mention the matter to the Committee & being the Memorial a copy of which be left with me, before them at their next Meeting.  Received by the Post Letter from Mr. Vaughan, with two Birmingham Navigation papers containing passages relative the Rail Roads. 

Saturday 18 September 1824

At home in the morning.  Dr. Holland arrived from Knutsford at noon, & who I afterwards took in the Gig to Newcastle from whence he set off on a professional visit to the Revd. Mr.Le ... ... of Hodnett having been sent for by express, & from whence he intended proceedings to Town. 

We had much conversation about the wretched business in Berner Street & Scotland Yard in the caller of which concerns Wilkins was a Partner.  Emma arrived to dinner, bringing her lovely little baby.  Revd. Mr. Carter dined.  By the Post another Letter came from Anne with intelligence of poor Arthur being ill.  To this I replied myself & in a way which I hope would not fail to administer some comfort to these poor sufferers. 

Mr. Williams of Sandbach also called, relative to Taylor's claim to Warwickshire Estates & the Lawton Title the latter of which he assured me would now be forthwith completed, but it being late, & there being no time to enter into particulars on either of these matters, he promised to call upon me again in the course of a few days.  Received two more Birmingham Share Papers with which relative to Rail Roads. 

Sunday 19 September 1824

At home.  Emma from her great anxiety to see poor Anne, left us on her return homewards at 2o'clock, with her dear & lovely little baby.  This circumstance prevented me having Service this morning.

Monday 20 September 1824

Went to Stone to meet Mr. Webb.  On my way called upon Mr. Robert Fenton & showed him Mr. Alderly's consent to the Road & other arrangements respecting Knypersley Reservoir, then he said that there could now be no objection to our going on with the Work. 

Engaged closely at Stone all day examining & sending Treasurers Account from 13 October 1823 - 3rd September 1824 with Mr. Webb & Mr. Vaughan & examining Cash Book from 13 October1823 to 25 January 1824 comparing the same with the Mr. Vaughan etc. etc.

Page 166 : 1824

Tuesday 21 September 1824

At home.  But I am sick in mind & I almost resigned to any exertion.  I every day feel that I have too much upon my hands & thoughts, and yet I see no way in which I can dispose this , as withdraw myself from it.  The last ten years have in various ways been years of great trial and suffering; & when I look back upon them.  I almost shudder at the review.  But it is idle to indulge in unavailing regards, and whilst life remains, I must struggle to discharge the duties of it. May God help me in the endeavours! 

Wednesday 22 September 1824

Mr. Robert Heath came in the morning by appointment, & to whom I explained the demand made by Mr. Hales upon the Navigation Company, for a compensation for coals to be left in the Downfield side colliery when he promised to survey the same & furnish me with a Report before Monday next. 

Afterwards went to Rode Heath, & saw Miss Dawson & Miss J R. . . preparatory to my meeting M. Heaton at Alsager Lodge tomorrow relative to his serving & . . . Bostock House & Hens Lake Estates.  By the Post received a Letter from my poor Anne in reply to the one I wrote to her on Saturday last & full of expressions of her gratitude & affection. 

Thursday 23 September 1824

Received early a Letter from Mr. Heaton informing me that he could not come to Alsager Lodge this morning.  Closely  engaged perusing Minutes of the Select Committee since the last General Assembly , and arranging papers preparatory to the coming Committee and General Assembly.  Stamford went to Betley Hall. 

Friday 24 September 1824

At home.  Closely engaged again on Navigation Papers all Morning.  Considering and drawing words of a Report from the Select Committee to the General Assembly in case it should be deemed proper to make one.  Eliza went out in the Carriage, & did not suffer from the exercise. 

Saturday 25 September 1824

At home.  Mr. Potter came soon after breakfast, & with whom engaged a considerable time.  Afterwards closely engaged on Navigation Papers the whole of the morning, considering again & correcting Draft of Report & copying the same. 

By the Post arrived a Letter from my poor Anne requesting a loan of £1000, & which with assistance from other friends to the amount of £4000, making in the whole £5000 would enable Arthur to survive the business in Scotland Yard. 

Miss Stamford leaving Linley, offered to lend another £1000 part of the £4000.  I wrote to Anne informing her that Miss Stamford & I would advance Arthur £1000 each, and that to guard against my disappointment from delay in the Admonies of their other friends, particularly as the money would so soon be wanted, ( Thursday next) I would plan £4000 in the Laws of A . . .& Co to be at Arthurs disposal till his other friends made their advances. 

Memoirs of Louisa Marsh-Caldwell

1824

A short time after the change in our family fortunes, my father [Arthur Cuthbert Marsh]  gave up his house No.7 Whitehall Place, then a fashionable part of London, and went to live at Kilburn, in 1826, a merely village suburb of the capital.

Of course the Knightsbridge family town house now called “Stratheden House” belonging to my Grandfather Marsh was sold, as was also his Hampshire property, and thus no trace was left of the former prosperity of our forebears.

At the time of the break-up my father was nearly 40 years of age, and therefore too old to enter any profession. He was made a Director of the Imperial Gas Company, of which he became before his death, Vice Chairman, and in fact it was said managed the whole affairs of the company which he had brought to a high state of prosperity.

We as children, and in my own first youth can remember, that we all thought ourselves very very poor, but the term “poverty” is very comparative, and some of my now dear sisters in their married lives, and our married nephews and nieces would smile at the thought of considering themselves “very poor” on £900 per annum, which was the lowest income my parents ever had.

Wedgwood Archives

28-20800

No date

Document summarising the situation regarding the Marriage Settlement of Arthur Cuthbert Marsh and his wife Anne Marsh (Marsh-Caldwell nee Caldwell), after the bankruptcy of William Marsh.  This document is not dated but was probably prepared for Josiah Wedgwood in the late 1820s or early 1830s.  The document reads as follows:

In the month of September 1824 William Marsh and his partners became bankrupt.

Previous to the issuing of the commission against them the mortgage money due from Sir Beng Hollowell mentioned in the deed of indemnity was paid in and invested in the purchase of £3,000 consols in the name of James Wheeler in reduction of his mortgage.

After the issuing of the commission James Wheeler the mortgagee brought an action of ejectment and recovered possession of the estate at Hendon and obtained a degree of foreclosure in the Court of Chancery.  By the master’s report in this suit it appeared that there was owing to James Wheeler £22,000 3 per cent consols and £1210 for interest expenses and costs on the 10^th October 1827.
After the foreclosure of the estate at Hendon Josiah…

The above is the first 5 pages of a 9 page document.  Note that “George Edward Graham Foster Pigott” of Bryanston Square, Middlesex, had previously gone by the name of “George Edward Graham”.

Diary of James Caldwell at Linley Wood

Sunday 26 September 1824

Mr. Robert  Heath came early with his Survey & valuation of the Coals in Downfield side Colliery, and with whom engaged a considerable time.  Service. 

Monday 27 September 1824

Went early to Stone.  Called at Kinnersley's & got a Letter of credit on Circumstances to Arthur's Marsh for £4000 & which I trust will be the means of enabling him to establish his new and separate concerns.  Closely engaged in the General Committee.  In the chair. 

Tuesday 28 September 1824

Engaged early this morning drawing on a circular to be sent to the Prospectors requesting their executions in approving the Rail Road for Birmingham to Liverpool.  Afterwards engaged on the General Accounts.  Again in the chair.  Dined, & returned home at night.  Snow had fallen early this morning.  On my arrival at home found Anne & Betsy who had come from Knutsford. 

Wednesday 29

At home.  Busily engaged on Navigation Papers.  Mr. Barker to inform me of a proposed alteration of the Highway in Alsager, leading to Audley, but to which on looking in my plan of my Lands, I told him that I would not consent to as it would be very injurious to the Estate, & which he said he would inform Mr. Booth & Mr. Twemlow who had staked it out.  Not being able to go to Alsager to speak to Mr. Heaton who was there relative to the . . .of the late Miss Penlington.  I sent a message inviting him to breakfast here tomorrow morning.

Page 168 : 1824  September

Thursday 30 September 1824

Went to Newcastle settling with Mr. Smith Printed the circular Letter directed by the General Assembly to be sent to the Proprietors requesting this execution in resisting the Rail Road project from Birmingham to Liverpool. 

Saw Mr. Ward relative to the Brewery Concerns, which he promised to attend to, and speak to Mr. Bent.  On my return found Ann & Betsy gone.  By the Post received a Letter from Arthur's Marsh, in consequence of which I determined to go immediately to Town being unwell with a cold and Fever.  Mr. Heaton called soon after my return from Newcastle relative to his valuation of the late Miss Penlington's two Estates, & which he promised to send me in writing.  Still unwell. 

October

Friday 1^st October 1824

Wrote to Mr. J. Wedgwood in reply to a Letter received from him last night, and sent him a copy of Mr. Rennies Report relative to the Dam Feeder.  Wrote also to Mr. Simpson of Birmingham & to Mr. R. Twemlow. 

Saturday 2 October 1824

Left home between 8 & 9 o'clock on my Journey to Town on the sad and unhappy occasion of Arthur's Marsh's Affairs ... ... Arrived at Daventry that night. 

Sunday 3 October 1824

Left Daventry early between 7 & 8.  Breakfasted at Brickhill & arrived in Lower Brook Street between 4 & 5, but found the Doctor & Emma gone to the Priory.

Page 169 and 170  [Blank Pages]

57-32068

11 October 1824

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny, 1781-1875) to Anne Marsh (Marsh-Caldwell nee Caldwell). 

To- to Mrs Arthur Marsh, 7 Whitehall Place, London.

Cresselly

October 11^th 1824

My dear Anne

I have been very uneasy about you, ever since, I have seen in the papers, the strange conduct of Mr Fauntleroy, and I have been a little relieved this morning by a letter from Staffordshire saying that your husband had nothing to do with the bank.  Thank heaven for him!  and though future expectation is cut off from you, this may not, and I trust will not, be wanted by you, and I am convinced that you have too much good … , and are too good to be cast down by disappointments, and lighter misfortunes, and the heavier ones, you have yet escaped, for which I rejoice most sincerely. 

I had not courage to write to you till I knew the extent of your misfortune, and I was much relieved today of hearing it was less than I had sometimes feared.  I have also been very uneasy about Eliza from seeing in the papers a fortnight ago the death of Mr W Roscoe near Liverpool. 

I was sometimes tempted to practice a ball and write to ask her if this were living.  Our letters from Maer which cheered us this morning satisfied my mind also, on this particular, and our intercourse by writing has been left off, so long it makes it difficult to begin again, my interest in her general welfare is as there as … but the every day interest of amusement and pleasure is of course lost when correspondence ceases. 

A gay and charming letter from Bessy which cheered us this morning, was contrasted sadly by John’s envelope from Gloucester, saying how little hope he had, for his poor Gertrude and that she had lost all, for her ultimate recovery. 

Perhaps you may not have heard that they were stopped at Gloucester, in their ineffectual effort to try a warmer climate for the winter.  They are now established there for the winter, with their two eldest boys, and they have given their two youngest to us in charge here.  This was arranged when they meant to try Pescia or Hieres!  and they have not yet formed any plan of having them up. 

Mrs Allen has been too unwell to like to have them yet, but if she should get better which I earnestly hope, I trust and think it likely they will send for them.  This place is very melancholy particularly under its present circumstances, and I should be glad to be spared the winter here – all past events, and persons gone, press more constantly on the mind here, than anywhere else naturally and there is nothing to distract the mind.

They come in dim succession led.

The cold, the absent, and the dead.

So that I feel it a great effort to retain a moderate degree of spirits.  John is under my care and is a very charming child.  He has not yet left off his petticoats.  We are hard at learning something or other for nearly two hours every day, and he has made very good progress in French. 

Little Isabelle is a nice little thing also, and she is now immediately under Emma’s care.  We lead the most retired life possible and have been no where, except to Stockpole (Lord Cawdon’s) where we spent the whole of the week between the Dowager’s and Lord Cawdon’s. 

I enjoyed the visit there, very much, a large house with all its appurtenances, and well lighted, is the greatest luxury and Lord Cawdor is he most delightful family man I ever saw, the most sensible and tenderest father.  Lady Cawdor is a very agreeable person and makes her house the pleasantest great house I was ever in.  Her father Lord Bath and a brother and sister of hers was there also, and the two former were heavy Gentry.

What a lucky circumstance for poor John that Jane is now staying at Gloucester with Allen she is of untold comfort to John, and Miss Allen who loves her she says better than either of her sisters, from whom she has been separated a long time, poor thing!  She feels it a hard thing to relinquish the world. 

How glad I am that Marianne Darwin is going to be married so much according to her heart and inclination!  I wish I could chance a husband for Caroline, it could make more than half a dozen happy. 

The M… have cooked up a very pretty scheme for Italy next year.  I trust nothing will come estwith to destroy it and Bessy will remain with Jessie in the mean while.  Sarah I hear is going to … Hay House – if Lord Crewe will let it.  This upon the whole seems a very fair scheme for her, though I should still have preferred a London one. 

I wish we had been to try a house near London with her in conjunction this winter, but one must be contented with when one is known, particularly if one might be usefully employed. 

Mama desires her kindest love to you, and joins me in affectionate remembrances to Mr Marsh.

Believe me dear Anne

Yours most Affectionately

F Allen

If it is irksome to write do not answer this letter.  I wished to tell you the warm and constant interest I take in your concerns and you may perhaps feel more inclined to write some time hence.  Is Pelsy Smith gone to Paris?

 Postmarked 18 (or 11?) Oct 1824.

Diary of James Caldwell

Page 171 : October  1824

Tuesday 19 October 1824

At home.  Engaged on various Navigation Letters which I found on my arrival at home yesterday : but so unwell as to be almost unable to attend to any business.  Stamford went to Knutsford Sessions.  Mr. Randle Wilbraham called and engaged to dine here on Tuesday next. 

Wednesday 20 October 1824

Still very unwell and almost exhausted in Mind & Body.  Wrote to Mr. J. B. Hollinshead of Liverpool to Mr. Lee, Chairman of the Birmingham Canal Select Committee, to Sir George Chetwynd & Mr. Wedgwood & to Mr. Vaughan.  I kept at the desk all day, & without going out of doors. 

Thursday 21 October 1824

Again being engaged on Navigation Business.  Wrote a long Letter to Mr. Daniell in reply to one from him, which had arrived during my absence.  Received Letter from Mr. Vaughan proposing to come to Linley Wood on Saturday next, as he had several matters of business in which he wished to see me.  Wrote to him & fixed to see him on Saturday accordingly.  Received also a most kind Letter from Dr. Holland informing me that Mr. Ball's opinion was favourable to A. Marsh & affording for this & other . . .particularly a kind & liberal offer from Mr. M. Morrison to join him in the Scotland Yard Concern & to advance the money that might be necessary, being only allowed.  Interest on his advances.  Still miserably suffering myself. 

Friday 22 October 1824

At home.  Engaged on Navigation Papers receiving & copying the Minutes of the proceedings of the last Committee Meeting for insertion in the Book.  Still very unwell. 

Saturday 23 October 1824

At home.  Mr. K Tenant of the Bostres House Estate requesting to have the money due to him on Bond from the late Mr. Penlington paid in at Lady Day next, when I told him that I had enclosed  ... ... it  ... ... that would be paid before that time, probably at Christmas next.  Copied Minutes of Proceedings of the last General Assembly.  Mr. Vaughan came agreeable to appointment, & with whom engaged a long time on Navigation Business.  Delivered to him the Copies of the Minutes

Page 172 : 1824  October

Saturday 23 October 1824

the Committee and General Assembly.  In the afternoon rode out with Eliza in the Carriage.  In the evening Letter from Arthur Marsh, with a copy of Mr Ball's opinion, which upon the whole was favourable.  Also Letter from Sir George Chetwynd enclosing one from Mr. Challinor proposing to attend at Stone on the 1st of November relative to the Caldon Case.  Wrote to Sir George by this Post in reply.  Still very unwell. 

Sunday 24 October 1824

At home.  Service as usual. 

Monday 25 October 1824

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Simpson of Birmingham & Mr. Challinor of Leek on having still business, & in reply to Letters from them.  Mr. Potter called, & with whom engaged a long time on various Navigation matters. 

Tuesday 26 October 1824

At home.  Engaged again on Navigation Papers.  Mrs. & Miss Emma & Mr. Jos. Wedgwood, Mr. Bough Allen, Mr. Randle Wilbraham & Rev. Mr. Mainwaring, dined & the four former staid all night.  Letter from Mr. Vaughan with statement of the Waters coming into the Tunnel Road & from Mr. J. Wedgwood enclosing the Copy of Mr. Telford's Report, which I had a short time ago sent, & requesting B. . . to inspect the findings of the Committee General Approval. 

Wednesday27 October 1824

Wrote to Mr. Jos. Wedgwood saying that Mr. Vaughan would any time show him the Minute Book.  Afterwards attended the Election of Physicians for the N. S. Infirmary & voted for myself & Miss Stamford in favour of Dr. Bent.  Knew of Laws declared in favour of Dr. Mackenzie, & a Ballot Poll demanded, which I left after voting. 

Dr. Bent proposed by Mr. Swinnerton of Butterton.  Dr. Mackenzie by Mr. Sneyd of his number & seconded by Mr. Leigh Of Consall.  On my way to the Infirmary called at Kinnersley's & gave up the two Letters of Conduct one to A. C. M & & the other myself, of which no use had been made, & which Mr. Ironmonger put into the fire.  NB: Dr. Bent was finally elected by a Majority of 5: there being 62 votes in favour, & 57 for Dr. Mackenzie.

Page 173 : 1824  October

Thursday 28 October 1824

Went to Newcastle with Stamford and attended Turnpike meeting on the Uttoxeter & Newcastle Road & the Darlaston Butt Lane & Linley Roads.  When the annual accounts were audited & passed and an order was made for the Branch from the Hollins to Linley Lane being immediately completed.  Mr. Holland of Newcastle who was present having agreed to advance the money that would be matched by £1000. 

Friday 29 October 1824

At home.  Engaged on Navigation Papers preparatory to seeing Sir George Chetwynd who had informed me that he would call here tomorrow.  Persistent Rain & floods.  Stamford dined at the Rev. Mr. Bulls. 

Saturday 30 October 1824

At home & Sir George Chetwynd came and with whom engaged a considerable time on Navigation Business.  Stamford returned from Mr. Bulls. 

Sunday31 October 1824

At home.  Service.

November

Monday 1^st November 1824

Went to Stone.  Took Mr. Sparrow from Newcastle.  Engaged all day on Select Committee.  A Delegation from the Birmingham Canals consisting of Mr. Lee Chairman & Mr. T Galton a Member of the Select Committee & Mr. Eyre Lee met as relative to the projected Rail Roads & on which engaged till late in the Evening. 

Tuesday 2 November 1824

Executed my Will at the Navigation Office, Mr. Vaughan, Mr. Wm. Vaughan his son, & Mr. James Smith one of the Clerks being the witnesses.  After some conversation on Navigation business with Sir G. Chetwynd & Mr. Lister we separated, & I arrived at home at one o'clock, but far from well. 

Wednesday 3 November 1824

At home.  Mr. Tomkinson on Mrs. Tollet's affairs when I executed the surrender of Mr. Armistead's Mortgage & I gave up the Title Deeds to Mr. Tomkinson with 2 Bonds of the late Mr. Armistead for £1250 & the other for £850 and a note. 

Thursday 4 November 1824

Went to Cliffe Ville to speak to Mr. Tomlinson again on Mrs. Tollet's affairs.  Consultation on the Will of the late Miss Penlington when he said that if I meant to be a Purchaser, I must not prove the Will, & I resolved to take the Opinion of Counsel how to not. 

Tuesday 5 November 1824

At home.  Received Release & Account in Mrs. Tollet's affairs from Mr. Tomlinson, & sent my acknowledgement of the same for Mr Hill.  Also sent Mr. Tomlinson the attested copy of Miss Penlington's Will.  Very unwell with fever. 

Saturday 6 November 1824

At home, but miserably ill.  Took two Lettuce Pills on going to bed. 

Sunday 7 November 1824

The Pills had the effect of giving me some sound and refreshing sleep, & alleging the great nervous irritation from which I have been so dreadfully suffering for the last two days, but not well enough to perform the usual Service.  James Bent came to dinner.  Took two more Lettuce Pills the same as before.  Received Letter from Mr. Lee from Birmingham.  Navigation business. 

Monday 8 November 1824

To my suffering & disappointment the Lettuce Pill produced this night no effect.  Ill but something better.  Wrote to Mr. Lee in reply to his letter.  Mr Barker a Recruiting Officer at Newcastle Road.  Letter from Mr. Lister. 

Tuesday 9 November 1824

Went in the Carriage to Newcastle.  Requested a lift with Kinnersley.  Desired Mr. Ironmonger with whom Mr. Barber forgot to mention my Name to him.  The former to receive the 4 plant. . . . . .

On my return met Mr. Bent of Newcastle, who said he had been at Linley Wood, & would dine with us on Sunday next.  Wrote to Mr. Lister in reply to his Letter.  Mr. Williams of Sandbach met John Taylor & Yates pursuant to Appointment to consider further of Taylor's claim to the Estate in Warwickshire, whom after much consideration, it was agreed , that Mr. Williams, who was shortly going to Town, should call upon Mr. Dickins of Coventry, the solicitor mentioned in Mr. Pickfords Letters as having a full knowledge of the business and confer with him previous to any further steps being taken.

Wednesday 10 November 1824

At home.  Better but still unwell.  Stamford dined at Lawton Hall. 

Thursday 11 November 1824

At home.  Very unwell.  Mr. Randle Wilbraham dined and staid all night.

Page 175 : 1824  November

Friday 12 November 1824

After Mr. R. Wilbraham went, I went to Hanchurch & attended Turnpike Meeting of Linley Lane Road.  Returned to dinner.  Found Letter from Mr. Hollinshead of Liverpool & Case in Penlington Affairs from Mr. Tomlinson, as to my power of becoming a Purchaser, from being appointed an Executor.

Saturday 13 November 1824

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Hollinshead in reply to his Letter.  Perused Case & made observations for Mr. T. consideration.  Still very unwell.  copied Minutes of the last Select Committee to be sent to Mr. Vaughan. 

Sunday 14 November 1824

At home.  Service as usual.  Wm. Bent came to dinner & returned in the Evening.

Monday 15 November 1824

At home.  Engaged on Navigation Papers.  Copied & sent to Mr. Vaughan the Minutes of the last Select Committee.  Also engaged on Harrison's paper & previous to going to Derby tomorrow on account of these affairs. 

Tuesday 16 November 1824

Set off Derby where I arrived between 5 & 6 o'clock, but did not see Mr. B . . .that evening he being perfected coming to me. 

Wednesday 17 November 1824

Engaged all day with Mr. B . . .on Harrison's affairs, when he declared his full conviction of the Title being now perfected.  Called at Mr. Saunders & upon Mrs. T. . .the latter of whom still put off any payment under the plan of simplicity adding an abundance of promise for the future etc. etc. we also saw Miss T. . . & obliged her how the matter was valued & that there 8 years Rent in arrears. 

Getting no satisfaction, Mr. B. suggested giving her a notice to quit & which he said he would consider of.  Called on Dr. Bent.  Walked to the Houses & Gardens called Botany Bay.  Dined with Mr. B. . .  On my return to the Inn wrote a note to Mr. H. . . inviting him to breakfast tomorrow morning.

Thursday 18 November 1824

Mr. H. . . came to breakfast and with whom great conversation.  He said he would search whether he had any of the old (Page 176) Title Deeds in his possession.  Mr. B. . . came in during breakfast and brought me the Testament dealing the uses of the Fine & also the Conveyance of the Land purchase from Mr . . .  He gave me also a Rental of the property, accounting also on the Arrears of the Rent he had received & promised to let me have his Bill at Christmas.  I was very unwell during my stay at Derby & suffered much from the exertion.  Left Derby at a quarter past one, & got to Linley Wood to dinner between 6 & 7 o'clock. 

Friday 19 November 1824

Mr. Wedgwood of Bignall End paying me £4000 in further part of the principal on his Bond & Mortgage & having the sum of £5500 due thereon.  He also paid me the half years Interest due this day.  At home the rest of the day. 

Saturday 20 November 1824

At home.  Mr. Vaughan came soon after breakfast and with whom already engaged several hours, preparing for the Meeting of Delegates from Canals at Birmingham on Tuesday next, & particularly in respect to the complaints alleged against the Bridgewater & Trent & Mersey Canals. 

In the evening Letter from Lord George Chetwynd, & one from Mr. B. . . ,with a Copy of Resolution of the Grand Junction Committee.  Wrote to Stamford and sent him a Letter from Mr. Ward of Burslem relative to opening a commission of Bond etc.  Sent him also Letter of Condition Statement & Co. for £200. 

Sunday 21 November 1824

At home.  Service. 

Monday 22 November 1824

Set off this morning to Birmingham to attend Meeting of Delegates from several Land Companies relative to the projected Rail Road from Birmingham to Liverpool, & which had been appointed to be held tomorrow.  Arrived at Birmingham between 4 & 5 o'clock & met Sir George Chetwynd, Mr. Lister, Mr. Vaughan & Mr. Wilkinson. 

Tuesday 23 November 1824

Mr. Simpson breakfasted with us.  After which engaged all day attending the Meeting which was most satisfactorily attended with Mr. Lee in the chair, the offer of which had been made to myself, but which I declined. 

There some Delegates from the Great Junction, the Coventry, the Stafford, & Warwickshire, the Birmingham & the Trent & Mersey Canals.  A subscription of £5000 & upwards was entered into by the respective companies & Mr. B . . .,Mr. H . . .,Mr. Lee, Mr. Woodcock & myself were appointed a committee for conducting the opposition in Parliament calling for, & applying the Treasury etc. etc. & Mr. Syme the Agent.  The Oxford Company declined sending Delegates.

The day progressed most satisfactorily, not at all unpleasant circumstances having received not even an expression being delivered that would give the slightest umbrage or offence to any one, or much that it was observed, that had there been a newspaper Reporter in the room a possible evil smell have ensued.

Wednesday 24 November 1824

Mr. E. Lee called.  Left Birmingham about 12.  Stopped at Stone where Mr. Wilkinson, Mr. Vaughan & I dined, & arrived at home between 9&10. 

Thursday 25 November 1824

The Birthday of my very dear & beloved wife who completed her 70 year.  To what a train of Feelings and Recollections does this best lead? At home.  Engaged on Navigation Papers, & on the Farm Draining the Bank near the Meadow. 

London Courier and Evening Gazette

Thursday 25 November 1824

36. A Digest of the Laws relating to the Poor, by J. Stamford Caldwell Esq., Barrister at Law. Price 19s. bds

Diary of James Caldwell continues.

Friday 26 November 1824

Mr. Slater called in the morning & with whom I surveyed the lines of the intended Branch Turnpike Road from the Hollins to Linley Lane & which with a small deviation as to the print Sanction with the latter I approved. 

The Revd. Mr. Solomon of Sandbach afterwards called relative to an Account with the late Mr. Penlington of Rents received by the latter of part of their joint property when I told him that I would look over what papers could be found at Rode Heath & meet him some day at Mr. Skerratt's office at Sandbach on the business. 

Rode out on Horseback.  Stamford arrived by the Mail. Saturday 27 : At home.  Looked over Mr. Chapman's Report relative to Canals & Rail Roads, which Stamford had brought me from Dr. Holland, & observations thereon in the Newcastle on Tyne Newspapers.  Engaged on the Penlington & other papers, & afterwards on the Farm.  Draining in the ground below the Flower Garden. 

Sunday 28 November 1824

At home.   Service.

Monday 29 November 1824

At home.  Engaged on the Penlington Papers.  Mr. Potter called, & with whom engaged a considerable time on Navigation business.  Directed him to make enquiry as to the line of the projected Rail Road to the Potteries, & the lands which it would pass through, in order that the Land owners might be waited upon, & desired him to call upon Mr. Wilkinson for his assistance. 

Desired him also to call upon Mr. Fenton for a consent in writing on the part of Mr. Bateman to the Knypersley Reservoir being begun upon immediately.  George Beardmore brought forth the Plan of the Public house to be visited on the new Linley Lane Branch Road, which I considered and attended & desired him a time for further consideration. 

Tuesday 30 November 1824

At home.  Engage on Navigation Papers, & Draft of Petition to Parliament against the Birmingham & Liverpool Rail Road.

December

Wednesday 1^st December 1824

At home.  Engaged all morning on Navigation Papers & completing Draft of Petition.  Heavy snow storm. 

Thursday 2 December 1824

At home.  Engaged on Penlington & Navigation Papers.  In the evening Letter from Mr. Wilkinson with the affidavits in the Caldon Case supported by Mr. Taunton, & requesting my consideration of the same.  Snow. 

Friday 3 December 1824

 At home.  Perused & considered the Caldon papers received last night from Mr. Wilkinson.  Referred the Draft of the Petition to Parliament. 

Page 179 : 1824  December.

Saturday 4 December 1824

At home.  Closely engaged all morning on the Penlington papers & drawing out a statement of the Facts with the observations for the perusal & consideration of Mr. Tomkinson, who I determined to consult on these affairs from the various difficulties in which they are involved.  Snow.  In the evening received from Stafford Book of Land owners on the line of the intended Rail Road from Lane End to Ravensmoor near Nantwich. 

Sunday 5 December 1824

At home.  Service. 

Monday 6 December 1824

Returned the Caldon Case papers to Mr. Wilkinson, & wrote to him thereon.  Sent the Penlington Papers with a Statements of the Facts to Mr. Tomlinson for his perusal provision to my seeing him on this business & wrote to him thereon.  In the evening received papers & a Letter from Mr. Eyre Lee, relative to the National Business.  In the middle of the day Rain. 

Tuesday 7 December 1824

Again Frost.  Engaged perusing and considering long Letter and other papers received from Mr. Lee, & afterwards writing to him thereon.  In the middle of the day Rain & snow.  The weather most inclement.  Received a card to attend the Funeral of my late neighbour the Revd. Mr. Wettenhall who died on Sunday last.  Received by Post a letter from Wm. Bent informing me of the Newcastle Brewery being let to the Parties from Dudley who had been some time interested in it. 

Wednesday 8 December 1824

Went to Newcastle with the papers received from Mr. Lee and engaged with Mr. Wilkinson filling up the list of Land owners on the Line from Lane End to Ravensmoor, with their descriptions and addresses & which when completed I desired Mr. W. immediately to return to Mr. Lee, and to wait upon Mr. Sneyd & of that tomorrow relative to the Rail Road.  In the evening letter from Mr. Vaughan desiring me to fix a day for his coming over to Linley Wood to consult me on various matters.  Wrote to him & fixed Friday next. 

Thursday 9 December 1824

Wrote to Wm. Bent.

Page 180 : 1824  December

Friday 10 December 1824

At home.  Mr. Vaughan came to dinner and with whom engaged all the evening on Navigation Business.  The Revd. Mr. Carter to speak to me relative to the presentation to the Meeting of Lawton of which I was a Master. 

Saturday 11 December 1824

Mr. Vaughan went after breakfast.  Afterwards attended the Funeral of my late neighbour the Revd. L. Wettenhall who was interred in the Chancel at Lawton.  I think in his 70th year.  Sir H. Mainwaring, Mr. Charles Lawton, a Mr. Ainsworth & myself.  Business.  The Revd. Mr. Lawton & the Revd. Mr. F ... ... the latter of whom proposed the Funeral Service were the only other attendants besides the sons of the deceased. 

Received by the Coach the Book of References of the Land owners on the business of the Birmingham & Liverpool Rail Road, including those that were from Lane End to Ravensmoor.  In the evening Eliza R ... ... with her three children & Miss Stamford arrived.

Sunday 12 December 1824

At home.  Service.  James Bent came to dinner & staid all night.  In the afternoon at Talk Chapel with Eliza & J. Bent. 

Monday 13 December 1824

At Cliffe Ville on Penlington Affairs.  From thence went to Mr. Sparrow's Office to see Mr. Wilkinson relative to writing upon the Land owners on the Pottery line of Rail Road which was arranged that he & Mr. Vaughan should go together & that I should, previously meet Mr. Vaughan with whom I would look over the Plan with, & Mr. Wilkinson with whom I had left the Plan & Section. 

Tuesday 14 December 1824

At home.  Engaged all morning closely on Navigation Papers.  Copied the Draft of the Petition afresh & made various additions to & attending thence.  Sent for the Plan & Section of Rail Road left with Mr. Wilkinson in order that I might show them to Mr. Wedgwood tomorrow. 

Wednesday 15 December 1824

At home.  Mr. Jos. Wedgwood with whom engaged on Navigation Affairs, Railway Reports of Water etc. etc. & also executed Dr. Holland & Mr. R ... ... Marriage Settlements.

Page 181 : 1824  December

Thursday 16 December 1824

At home.  Engaged on Rail Road Papers.  Sent back Plan, Section & Book of References of Pottery Line to Mr. Wilkinson in order that he might wait upon Mr. Sneyd of Keele terminus, in which case I prepared, to meet Mr. Vaughan at Newcastle on Saturday, to make the final arrangement for the other Land owners being visited upon.  Mr. Kinnersley called. 

Friday 17 December 1824

At home.  Engaged on various matters & papers preparatory to going to Newcastle tomorrow. 

Saturday 18 December 1824

Went to Newcastle & met Mr. Vaughan & Mr. Wilkinson making final arrangements for their meeting upon the Land owners in the Line of Rail Road from Lane End to Ravensmoor & for which proposed it was fixed that they should act upon Monday next.  Returned to dinner. 

Sunday 19 December 1824

At home.  Service.  Wrote to Dr. Holland, and sent the two parts of his Marriage Settlement to him by the . . . Coach, delivered & Brokerage paid at Talk per Joseph Simon.  Charles Crompton came to dinner. 

Monday 20 December 1824

At home.  Engaged on Navigation Papers.  Wrote Letters to Mr. Hollinshead in reply to one received from last night with enquiries as to our proceedings respecting the Rail Road business.

Tuesday 21 December 1824

At home.  Engaged on sundry papers.  Wrote to Miss Skerrett of Sandbach with observations & Invoices on Penlington Title which I had received from Mr. Tomlinson.  Wrote also to Mrs. Penlington relative to administration to Mr. Penlington for the purpose of receiving dividends & transferring the shares belonging to her & the Revd. W. Arthers to a fresh Trustee. 

Mr. & Mrs. Chas Lawton, Mrs. E. Wedgwood, Eliza & Charlotte, Dr. & Mrs & Miss Northam, & Miss Moreton dined.  Dr. N. delivered to me a Message from Mr. Swinnerton of Butterton expressing his regret at not having an opportunity of speaking to me at the Infirmary Meeting as he wished to have done & which purpose he had looked for me. 

I told to Dr. N, that if I was to consider this as an intimation of returning & writing on the part of W. S. I received it with the same feeling, not as one Gentleman might from another, & I authorised Dr. N. in case anything more was said to express himself to this effect on my behalf & that having the confidence I might place in his delivery & humour I was ready to take such concern on my part as he should think most correct.  I had previously observed to Dr. N. that any advance on my part, in the first instance could never have been made, & which he seemed fully to acknowledge. 

Wednesday 22 December 1824

Miss Moreton went after breakfast.  Sent the Penlington abstract etc. with my Letter to Miss Skerrett for Mr. Bickerton.  Re-perused & made additions to the Trent & Mersey Petition to Parliament.  Jos. & Sarah Wedgwood came to dinner. 

Thursday 23 December 1824

The Wedgwood's went in the forenoon.  Letter from Mr. Wilkinson informing me of the successful Result of the application to the Land owners on the Cheshire part of the Line of the projected Branch Rail Road.  Mr. Roscoe arrived & brought my two first names being of Mr Roscoe & Mr ... ... to which I had subscribed.  In the evening Letter from Sir George Chetwynd enclosing one from Mr. Kinnersley relative to the . . . Case.  This morning began irrigating the upper part of the large meadow. 

 To

J. Caldwell

Linley Wood

Wheelode 23^rd Dec 1824

Dear Sir,

As it will suit me better and be full as [war?] I shall be happy to see you here on Tuesday and your [kind?] shall be [-]. I dare say you know this road which I believe will be over Alsager Walk and by [Ringwood?] Mill.

If you should be passing near Sandbach and it will be more convenient to see me there I will certainly give you the Meeting at my Office [house, stores?], but I still expect you here if I do not hear to the contrary – if Lawton gets over and a [Living?] G. N. Coach. If necessary.

I remain dear sir

Your very [faithfully?]

N. Jones

Friday 24 December 1824

At home.  Engaged all morning on Navigation Papers preparatory to the Meeting of the Select Committee on Tuesday next.  Mr. Skerrett with my two sisters came to dinner. 

In the evening Mr. F. Galton & Mr Eyre Lee of Birmingham, & Mr. Vaughan came, the two former to communicate to me a Plan suggested by Mr. Telford for making a canal from the junction of the Birmingham & the Wolverhampton Canals at . . .to Nantwich, by way of depositing the projected Rail Road, & which he proposed being done by the Prospectors of the present Canals, who would being that means be . . .themselves or receiving back any Tonnage that might be taken off the present line. 

They stated it as the opinion of Mr. Telford that the business of Liverpool was so immensely increasing that the present Canal would not be equal to doing it, & that if the proposed line were executed, the Rail Road project would be completely defeated.  That it should be done & he could get the subscription fitted in a week. 

I declined giving any opinion till I had considered the matter, & communicated with Select Committee on Tuesday next, & which I promised to do: but the general impression upon my mind was that the Project involved an unnecessary sacrifice of the Trent & Mersey Canal, to serve the Ellesmore & Birmingham Canals & other purposes. Mr. Telford wished to take 100 shares.  He had been appointed Chief Engineer Mr. T Galson . . .& Mrss Lee & Hunt Solicitors without any previous communication. 

Saturday 25 December 1824

At home.  Considered the communication made to me last night, & saw reasons, & as they appear to me, weighty objections to the Project.  Wrote to Mr. Hollinshead of Liverpool in reply to a letter received from him yesterday relative to the opening of the River Weaver Navigation but without saying more upon the subject than that I would lay his letter before the Select Committee on Tuesday next.  In the evening letter from Mr. Simpson of Birmingham relative to the Rail Road etc. 

Sunday 26 December 1824

At home.  Service.  In the evening letter Mr. Lister requesting me to meet him at Stone tomorrow. 

Monday 27 December 1824

Went to Stone to dinner.  Met Mr. Lister & Mr. Thos. Lawton with the former of whom & Mr. Vaughan much consideration of the project suggested by Mr. Telford to which Mr. L. expressed his strong & decided opposition. 

Tuesday 28 December 1824

At Stone closely engaged all day.  Mr. Eyre Lee attended, to whom the Select Committee strongly expressed their dissatisfaction at Mr. Telford's scheme & thereof it were not given up by the Birmingham Canal Company they could not act longer . . .in common with them when it was agreed by Mr. Eyre Lee that it should be relinquished.  A hard day being enjoyed till late at night.

Wednesday 29 December 1824

Engaged again in the morning & returned early to dinner.  Found poor Betsy very unwell. 

Thursday 30 December 1824

Closely engaged all morning on Navigation Papers, answered letters etc. etc.

Page 184 : 1824  December

Friday 31 December 1824

 At home.  Rev. Mr. Lawton called relative to his presentation to the Rectory of Lawton & which had been vested in Mr. Jones of Wheelock & myself as Trustees, when I remembered the Patron ( Mr. Lawton ) & Mr. Chas. Lawton, to be made Parties & the proper Instrument to be purchased from Mr. Ward the Praetor at Chester, & which Mr. John Lawton approved.  Engaged closely the greatest part of the day on Navigation Papers, Letters etc.  Wrote to Myr. of Manchester.  And here ends another year of my life.