Michael D.Heath-Caldwell M.Arch.

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

1853 - 1854 - 1855

Hannah Eliza Roscoe - age 67/68

James Stamford Caldwell of Linley Wood - age 66/67

Anne Marsh-Caldwell of Eastbury Park – age 62/63

Eliza Louisa Marsh-Caldwell – 'Louisa' – age 34/35

Frances Mary Crofton (ne Marsh) - age 33/34

Georgina Amelia Marsh-Caldwell – 'Gies' – age 32/33

Rosamond Marsh-Caldwell – 'Posy' - age 29/30

Mary Emma Marsh (Lady Mary E. Heath) – age 25/26

Hannah Adelaide Marsh (later Loring) - age 23/24

Julia Anna Harrison (ne Heath) aged 46/47
Rev John Moore Heath aged 45/46
Douglas Denon Heath aged 42/43
Rev Dunbar Isidore Heath 37/38

Commander Leopold G. Heath aged 36/37
Mary Emma Heath (ne Marsh) 27/28

Eliza Louisa Marsh aged 35/36
Frances Mary Crofton (ne Marsh) aged 34/35
Georgina Amelia Marsh aged 33/34
Rosamond Jane Marsh 30/31

Hannah Adelaide Loring (ne Marsh) 25/26

Amelia Alicia Anne Crofton aged 5/6
Duke Arthur Crofton aged 3/4
Richard Crofton - 0

Arthur Raymond Heath - 0

1854

Friday 6 January 1854
Globe

Letters from the Mediterranean announce that Lieutenant Herbert of the Bellerophon is appointed to the Inflexible, vice Oldfield, to the Bellerophon. The Rev. Antony Salkeld M.A., Chaplain of the Retribution, has leave of Admiral Dundas to come to England. Theatrical performances were the order of the evening on board the ships. Commander Heath of the Niger, has had six weeks leave granted him by Admiral Dundas, to enable him to go to Malta and get married.

Wednesday 18 January 1854
Sun (London)

The British Fleet in the Black Sea and at Constantinople
It appeas that Admiral Dundas has taken with him into the Black Sea about half of his force - namely, four line-of-battle ships and five steamers, exclusive of the two steamers detached. The following is the division and distribution - - - Britannia, Agamemnon, Rodney, Vengeance, Sanspareil, 71, screw, Captain R.C. Dacres.

The following force remained at Constantinople - Jan. 1:-
Trafalgar, 120, Captain Greville, Queen, 116, Captain Michell, London, 90, Captain Eden, Albion, 90, Captain Lushington, Bellerophon, 78, Capt. Lord G. Paget, Leander, 50, Captain King, Arethusa, 50, Captain Mends, Niger (srew), 14, Commander Heath, Fury, (Paddle), 6, Captain Tatham.

Saturday 11 February 1854
Hampshire Advertiser

The Combined Fleets in the Bosphorus.
We have our own letters from the British fleet, one of which dated Sinope, January 15, says "A French steam-frigate suddenly ordered back to Constantinople enables me to communicate that both fleets here are ordered back to Constantinople, and leave this tomorrow, order to this effect, I believe, having been received yesterday from somewhere.

Such an unexpected move is not what we expected. When the Retribution arrived at Sabastopol the other day, they were more peremptory in ordering her to "move off" than you may gather from the details of the visit yet published, - - - The Niger, 14, screw sloop, Commander Heath, was sent with despatches to meet the fleets and countermand their return to Beycos, but met them close to the Bosphorus. - -

Diaries of Lady Mary Heath

Journal continued - February 25th, 1854 - Therapia.

Saturday 25 February 1854
Leo to Constantinople - No one called - I sat with Mrs.Chambers and did not go down to dinner - Leo came home as usual.

Sunday 26 February 1854
Leo to Constantinople - I stayed in doors all day and did not go to dinner - received a note from Leo to say that he had started for his cruise.

Monday 27 February 1854
Cold dry snow and wind - everything disagreeable, sat with Mrs.Chambers in the morning - went out in the afternoon with her and were joined by Lady Emily who gave us an amusing description of the conversation of the two (French?) ladies at her party. I got into a great scrape by guessing Madame (Damian's?) age as 40 - when Lady E had just said she was ten years older than either of the ladies - went down to dinner. Capt.Drummond there, very pleasant. He is going to teach me to make Turkish coffee. Captain Borlase to get me the pot! Sat with the Chamber's, very kind they are.

Tuesday 28 February 1854
Sir J.Burgoyne returned from the Dardenelles. Miss Burgoyne very active attending all the riding parties and expeditions - they say her heart is much engaged to an attache Mr.(Wrothersley?) much younger than herself.

Tuesday 28 February 1854
Snow and cold wind - I drew Jonny Emms in the morning and sat down to read Gilbert Gurney and work. Sir Edward Lyons came to call and looked half asleep. I heard he had been (citing, acting?) (Eujshued?) next door - either that or my stupidity - War or peace is to be settled this next mail - He told me something of the Emporer Nicholas, how violent his temper - how Nessalrod is obliged sometimes to conceal disagreeable things from him on account his temper and (imoveable, miserable?) decrees - he told me he thought (Australia?) would some time take India from us - which I don't believe.

He advised me to put up a hand to direct the way into my apartment and truly in this case it was necessary for I thought he never would find the "door" - a very pleasant dinner with the Chambers - Mr.Chambers gave us an account of his childhood, how his mother used to flay him and how bad the effect was on his heart and (sincerity?) and what delight it used to be to him and his brother when ever their sister got their turn of the rod - how they used to dance like savages with delight (crossed out) extascy the only good he got was a great talent for diplomacy - it reminds one quite of the old times of flogging fathers and mothers - and certainly the fruits are not good.

Wednesday 1 March 1854
Sir E.Lyons and Capt.Drummond called, laughed at me about my friend the rat - but did not tell me any news. Gave me an account of Mr.(Skene?) an instance of talent uncombined with Mother-wit.

Lady Emily called afterwards and we had a long talk about society in general and the disagreeables of it and Malta more especially, and then upon the duty of family evening prayers and the difficulties attending the performance of it and if it were not a denying of Christ the sort of false shame one should have in inviting ones guests to join in the evening prayers at ones own fixed hour and not letting anything interfere with that duty - a very pleasant talk altogether - spent the evening with the Chambers - and received a letter from my husband.

Thursday 2 March 1854
Sir Edmund Lyons came in and chatted, he is so kind and pleasant - a charming person - and Captain Eden called who was also pleasant but I was stupid and sick - he is still confident for peace - had tea with Lady Emily and met Mr and Mrs.Skene - and Captains Eden, Parker, Drummond, McCleverty &c. - and Admirals, pleasant evening - Mr and Mad.(Damian, Damcan?) also - Madame in her Coiffure - and tried to induce me to wear it also - a case of fox without a tail - saw most of Captain Eden who was clever and amusing as usual - told me if anything was to be done Captain Parker would distinguish himself - and lamented his grey hairs in fun - and offered to do anything for me - came home and had egg-flip with the Chambers!

Friday 3(?) March 1854
Went with Mrs.Chambers to call on Lady Emily to see Mr.W.Parker's drawings, he had not arrived - so we staid and had a levee instead, old Captain Graham came with an opposum skin (ray?) for the Admiral, we looked at Armenian gowns - and Mustapha Pasha and Captain Borlase arrived, the former an active and intelligent looking person - then many other Captains and French Admirals came to pay their respects.

We left the room after drinking coffee and were joined by Lady Emily for a walk - met M. and Mde.le Baron Barroness (Damiau, Damean?) and either they could not get rid of us or we of them - we walked in the gardens and returned - a rich Mr.Matheson to dinner - "Furious" and "Vaubia" (Vauban) returned the worse for their cruise in to Varna, especially the latter.

Saturday 4 March 1854
No one called but Captain Carter - - - Table D'Hote a travelling man who had seen a great deal of the world and said Java was one of the richest and most lovely spots on the earth. Went to take tea with the Chambers at the Admirals - met Captain Drummond, Brock, &c - all busy reading newspapers, the mail just arrived. I talked to Captain Brock - who said he should stay 15 years here! Saw a very good alphabetical caricature, talked to Lady Emily, eat oranges and came home.

Sunday 5 March 1854
No one called - Captain Eden and Mr.Wills there - Captain Eden for peace yet thought all these regiments are coming out and the Guards - he seemed to have no fear of any want of sailors - he was amusing as usual - and laughed at my wishing the "Retribution" would be ready to turn out for the "Niger"! Very rude of me certainly but I could not restrain my anxiety!

Captain Eden told us that on the night the Census was taken there were 190,000 (Leo) Seafaring people in England counting only those in the Navy - The Russians have no screws so that their fleet is not of very effective - they talked of the impossibility of taking Sebastopol, it is so strongly fortified and the entrance so narrow.

Monday 6 March 1854
Out walking - met Sir E.Lyons who exclaimed upon the delight of hearing (English?) womens' voices - and said how happy I seemed without my husband which fact I disputed -

Table d'Hote - no one but Mr.Matheson and nephew - who was pleasanter than usual only I was too ill to listen - and I retired soon to bed.

Tuesday 7 March 1854
Spent a good deal of time with Mrs.Chambers, met Captain Eden in her room who talked a great deal of old Hampton Court friends of hers - and old Mrs.Eden in particular and they way she always insisted that he was the fine baby who (died, lived?) with its mother, and how he used to announce himself as "the fine Baby." Spent the evening with the Chambers.

Wednesday 8 March 1854
A cold day with snow storms - letter from Mother - Sir E. Lyons lent me newspapers - then I went to walk in the Embassy gardens and found the Chambers' and Sir E.Lyons there and were presently joined by Admiral Dundas with (Cjar, Czar?) heard no news - but promotion and was "chuffed" about my husband's absences by Sir Edmund - called on the (Damian's) Madame shewed me all her purchases and M.le Capitaine accompanied me home, heard no news but that the Czar had rejected the propositions of the Emporer Napoleon - and war was certain - which is uncertain news - Sir J.Borgoyne shortly goes to the Camp Schamla with Miss Burgoyne. - a young engineer who had been fighting at the Cape at dinner and the spy - The Cape a pleasant climate - nothing heard -

Thursday 9 March 1854
Took an early walk in the Fr.Embassy - Captain Loring called and told me stories of Lord Mitford - who seems to be disliked but is overpowering, fascinating when he chooses - war soon! - he told me of the fogs which might shortly be expected - so thick that they might be almost felt - and told me that they were like a wall sometimes dividing a ship - one part would be in fog, the other in fine weather. M. and Mdm Damian called but no news - Mdm.D. looked bad - I took a walk with Mrs Chambers and met the Admiral and Sir E. Lyons, all waiting for Sir (J?) Borgoyne and daughter on their way to the camp at Schamla - She seems to be plain but interesting looking and very clever - she accompanies her father in a carriage - though men must stand on on each side of the carriage doors to support it, the roads are so bad - Met Captain Eden and Captain Moore, my side saddle arrived. Lord Edward Russell to dinner - a very pleasant man.

Spent the evening with the Chambers - he called out to look at some young officers in jail for breaking the windows at the embassy - . I heard Miss B. is the only lady on board the (Arcadia?) with a ship boy for a waiting maid which rather astonishes us, she must be clever.

Friday 10 March 1854
Sir E.Lyons just called after I had taken my early walk to say how do you do and he would call again. Captain Eden to ask me what he was to do with my side saddle - and told me Rothschild declares that there will be no war - such an important person must surely know the truth - they say the Czar has Ensephalus in his head - and the sooner he is gathered to his father the better. Rain all the afternoon, finished (Dames Marthe D'armes"?) Captain Eden to dinner - he talked a great deal and made "George" run about - laughed and was very amusing but I heard no fresh news.

Saturday 11 March 1854
Took an early walk in the F.Embassy Gardens - and then again in the afternoon with Mrs.Chambers, nurse and child - came back to go with Mrs.Chambers to the lottery at the Sorrels. Admiral Dundas told me I could write to my husband - Admiral Lyons then Lady E., Captain Eden, Parker, Drummond, Dacres and others of course, we all lost adn the beautiful scarf fell to the lot of a young lady - came home to write my letter, which did not go after all! And then took a pleasant row on the water with Captain Eden - came home.

Sunday 12 March 1854
In bed with a cold all day. Had two letters from my husband - he comes home Wednesday - many callers - Admiral Lyons left me a message to say how my husband had been amusing himself at Athens.

Captain Borlase sent me violets and Louise brought me quantities from (Bejukden?) wood - I heard that a message is sent to the Czar to demand evacuation of the provinces by April - or war - something decisive and also that there is an order issued at Constantinople that all Greeks are to be in their houses by 9 o'clock. 7,000 Greeks in arms against the Sultan at (Janiem?) and there-abouts.

Monday 13 March 1854
A French Captain came to call - I shewed him my dress and table cloths which he admired - invited Leo and I to his house at Nice - and told me some interesting things about Brittany concerning the partial manner in which the ancient language is spoken in little plots of ground and districts which are identical with Welsh - he accompanied me to the F.Embassy - on the way met the two Admirals and Lady E. - of course was instantly assailed by "whose your friend."

Admiral Lyons tried to torment me about my husband - I called on Made de Chabaunes with Lady E. but she was not at home, walked a little in the gardens with them. Admiral Lyons amusing himself at my expense - they got rid of me at last and I left the gardens - Captain Eden and Lord Edward Russell to dinner, the former unmercifully teased poor Captain Borlase who bore it with much good humour.

I heard that a convention had been agreed upon that the Sultan would grant the same immunities and privileges to the Christian population as the Musselmen - in consideration of the assistance given them by English and French Squadrons - if war is declared, the fleets are to go into the Black Sea in 3 weeks - no other news - but a continual fire against poor Captain Borlase instigated by Captain Eden and followed up by Mr.Chambers being of a diplomatic tendency of mind.

Tuesday 14 March 1854
Went out to the Embassy Gardens but was driven in by rain - went out again and met nurse and child - called first on Mrs.Chambers and found Lady (Ren? Eden?)there who enquired after my health etc - and as pleasant as usual - I called to enquire on Madame de Chabannes - came home - Captain Eden called upon me - and was very amusing about the Turkish Convention - that we should soon see "the Turks driving in Hansoms' Cabs to Methodist Meetings." ! We talked of various drawing the talent for it in the Eden family - he talked of going with us tomorrow to see Rashid Pasha's Harem as "HaRem" - he had no sooner left me than the Garçon George rushed up to tell me "Niger" was in sight.

I flew to the window and with the open Glasses soon espied her black graceful form emerging behind Zenaboi - I saw Admirla Lyons out of the window who nodded and smiled and quickly came up to tell me the good news - and as he "delights to torment" as he said - he began telling me "he should beg Admiral Dundas to keep for Leo tea but should try and persuade him to fetch my husband off the supper!"

I laughed and was very gay, as well I might be - in about a couple of hours a well-known, quick step was heard hastening along the vestibule and I was soon welcoming my husband - and so ended most happily - the day -

Letter book of Mary Heath

1854 - Therapia, Constantinople
Leo - returned from Athens, looking very well. I was miserable when he was away, and thought myself very ill! But I am all right the moment he comes back, and as happy as all the happiness of 100 Queens could make anyone.

This morning the Admiral has sent him off. I am afraid that he will be sent off somewhere else soon, but I live in the present, and hope I shall get used, in time, to the vicissitudes of a sailor's wife's life. Certainly the joy, the frechness of joy, that one feels at a reunion, is very delightful extatic! But it hardly makes up for the dreary absences - to my mind.

Everyone is very kind to me in my widowhood, and Admiral Lyons is quite charming, especially when he like to tormenting me, by trying to sow domestic discord and seeds of jealousy in our happy store!

We had a a Smyrna paper yesterday publishing the Czar's answer to Napoleon, and his manifests, and certainly there seems to be no doubt of what he intends. They say all the common Greeks, the people, are in his favour, looking upon him as their Saviour, and the upholder of their "Holy Religion"and are unmitigated in their detestation of the Turks. Perhaps Nicholas counts truly upon a popular rising in his favour, and it would not be surprising if it were to take place when the Fleets are absent.

Tuesday 14 March 1854
Sussex Advertiser.

Dorking Agricultural Association - Established 1st December 1853
For awarding Premiums to Successful Competitors in the Growth of Root Crops; for the Encouragement of Agricultural Improvements and Good Ploughing; and for giving Rewards to skilful Farm Labourers.

To extend to all Parishes within seven miles of Dorking Town.
President for 1854, William John Evelyn Esq., M.P., Wotton - Vice-President. - Arthur Kett Barclay Esq., Bury Hill, Dorking.
Patrons
Charles Barclay Esq., Bury Hill, Dorking
Thomas Cubitt Esq., Denbies, Dorking.
Henry Drummond Esq., M.P., Albury Park.
John Labouchere Esq., Broom Hall, Capel
Douglas Denon Heath Esq., Kitlands, Capel
Charles William Calvert Esq., Ockley Court.
Edward Kerrich Esq., Arnolds, Capel
Thomas Grissell Esq., Norbury Park.
- - - continues - - - - long article. Awards prices for Mangle Wurzel, Swedes, Turnips and ploughing.

Diary of Mary Heath continues . . .

Wednesday 15 March 1854
Leo to his ship - and afterwards walking with me.

Thursday 16 March 1854
Leo and I went to the ship and heard an account of Mr.De(Lenuy's?) narrow escape from being murdered by Greek boatmen. Lord G.Paulet called to announce the arrival of his band - which played under the window of hotel to our great pleasure and to the admiration of the Greeks - Captain Loring (Lonning?) called and told us a long story of the (unheedsome?) way in which his French associate tried to avoid keeping company - going to Sebastopol - we went out afterwards and met Madame (Damian, Danican, Danieau?) and husband and several more - Captain Tatham had called in the morning amost apologising for the absence of his wife as if one cared and as if he had committed a crime in not having her here - he and Captain Twopenny walked some way with us. (crossed out - Leo dined downstairs without me) on our return came upon Admiral Dundas who kindly greeted us - and shewed us his sheep - which performed various antics with the coachman and host of Captains also there and met Madame de Chabaunes and Sanels.

Leo dined downstairs alone - he heard that the Turks say "we are much more (exigeant?) in our demands than the Great Russians who only ask for (pateration?) for the Greeks but we for all denominations of Christians," - people seem to expect that the fleets will leave this for the Black Sea shortly.

Friday 17 March 1854
Sir Edmond Lyons came in and told us that he was going to Constantinople to enquire into a report of 15 sail of the line (Russian) being seen coming about the Black Sea - if true all the squadrons were to proceed there - in the meanwhile "Furious" was sent off.

He blamed Lord J.Russell for letting the Czar know all the intentions of the Admiral in speech in the House of Commons - he left me the Photographs of Athens to look at and left Leo to the Admiral and to his ship, all the squadron busy bending sail - and all the Captains in high spirits as if they were going to their weddings and more so!

Leo returned and then we took a walk, met the Chambers and Mr.Simpson - and Captain Carter and Dr.Rees - Leo dined down stairs alone. Sir Edmond Lyons returned having questioned the bringer of the news and found "he had seen the ships 15 miles off" and finally "was not sure if they were ships at all," so much for reports - and the Ambassador must feel rather foolish after his stringent letter about it to Admiral Dundas.

Saturday 18 March 1854
The "Retribution" returned from the Black Sea - with no news - she was damaged and Captain Drummond spoke much against the injudiciousness of not having had all the ships in proper repair before the tug of war should come - Captains Eden and Tatham called.

Sunday 19 March 1854
Went out after church - my "church" and Leo's church - and met Captains Eden and Tatham near the ("Fury"), some laugh about the "Cookoo" like action in taking "Niger's" place in Therapia Creek. We read "Christian Year" together - and (Herbert?) and then took a walk in the French Embassy from which we hurried on leaning the arrival of the "Sampson" and "Valmy" - a crowd of eager Captains impatient for news round the Admiral's door. Captain Jones hurried past without letting out his news greatly to the Captains' disgust.

Afterwards it was given out that the Russians had blown up all the small forts on the Caspian Crest - and were conveying troops to the Crimea - "Furious" despatched to Sebastopol to look out - Leo got hold of a (Smyrna?) Paper in which the Czar refuses to listen to Napoleon's letter - and publishes a manifesto declining the Justice and sanctity of his Cause and compares his conduct to that of the Western powers who hold up a Mohomedan against a Christian religion, and like falsities and Russianisms.
Captain Randolph called and wanted to know what to do about his wife coming here.

Monday 20 March 1854
Leo and I walked along the (Yeny?) and met Captain Eden with whom we had a pleasant chat - he talked of the disgrace of it such a great nation as ours of carrying on the war in this half and half sort or manner - we then fell upon Admiral Lyons - Leo urged the wisdom of sending for the Engineer Troops from Malta to which Admiral Lyons assented as much as an Admiral can - he told us that Great perils are expected to be rife in the Archipelago and Mr.(Hyde? Lyle?) at Athens Mr.Ward at Corfu are in a fright at the threatening aspect of Greek affairs, they speak of insurrection and plunder and horrors impending - "Niger" much praised - likely to be a post-ship next commission.

There is a report that the Russians crossed the Danube (attempted to do so) but were repulsed by the Turks with great loss on the enemies side. Sir T.Burgoyne expected Tuesday who will bring the true news.

Letter from home - We heard that the Russian soldiers in the transport spoken by "Sampson" had put on their best clothes expecting evidently to be made prisoners - they were apparently the bad ones of the different regiments as they all had different no's in their caps - the officer in charge gave a good deal of information but that about the forts has gathered from a Circassian on the Coast. The transport was escorted by 7 small steamers who all fled at the approach ofthe "Sampson' and "Velmy."

Tuesday 21 March 1854
Went a walk to Zenkoi - called on Sandersons, (Janels?), and Mrs.Skene(?), found the latter at home - she was very anxious to assure Leo that this Greek Movement was by no means in favour of Russia - they hate Russia and fear her as much as we do - but sigh for their independence and think now is the time to aim a blow at Turkish rule and free themselves - she advised all ladies we could go to leave this place - and seemed to dread Turks and Russians alike but she is a croaker.

Captain Borlase called for a minute - Leo went to dine with Captain Graham - Mrs.Chambers came to give me a little coffee-cup - and also an account of her day at Constantinople.

Wednesday 22 March 1854
Took a pleasant country walk with Leo and gathered Christmas roses, dog-tooth violets, (squills?) and primroses growing wild - and the Fleet are preparing to go into the Black Sea. Sir J.Borgoyne bringing back a bad account of the Turkish army - Omar Pasha is a good officer but he has no one to support him, the others are fat, indolent and pipe smokers - the men are strong and good soldiers - their line is too thin and scattered along the Danube that the Russians might if they pleased break through at any moment and press towards Schumla - and be at Constantinople before the French and English troops arrive (say F!?)

Captain Twopenny told the company at dinner that the Turks brought into camp after one of their victories - 2 prisoners and 2,000 muskets implying their no-quarter-giving propensity .

Thursday 23 March 1854
Leo met Sir Edmond Lyons - who told him the Fleet's were going to sea - He also told Leo that he had asked Admiral Dundas to let him move "Highflyer" and "Niger" in case of his doing "anything up there" meaning Arcassian Crest - which pleased my husband. "Furious" came in having ascertained that the Russian Squadron were in Sebastopol - (crossed out - the Greek) met Captain Spratt of the "Spitfire" just returned from Volo and Salonica - he told us the "Niger's" appearance had just prevented an outbreak into Thessaly - the Greeks are rather expecting French and English sympathy and paying their people in French and English money to make it appear that they have those Countries sanction - he brought a packet of balls taken from the Greeks to be examined by the Turkish Government - they are said to be poisoned.
The Greeks are to rise on the 25, the day after tomorrow, we hear and the Fleets go tomorrow. The French Admiral waiting for the French mail.

Friday 24 March 1854
All the Squadron except "Charlmagne" repairing, "Retribution" did and "Niger" left the Bosphorus for Varna - Captain Eden called declaring they should not go after all that it was a farce summoning all the Captains to their ship - Captain Tatham called with letters to be sent off - Leo busy all day towing - I went with Captain Borlase and two Miss (Farrels, Janels?) to the top of the hills behind Therapia - and sitting ourselves down amongst heather in the sun - and sheltered from the wind, we enjoyed ourselves much watching the beautiful sight - the exit of these magnificent ships into the Black Sea which looked more blue than a turquoise, a delicious blue - we gathered purple primroses and golden crowsfeet as we returned - met Miss Sanderson and Mrs.(Skene) - and chatted a little with Mrs.Chambers.

Saturday 25 March 1854
Called on Lady Emily with Leo who returned from his (horse, north?) at 1 - found Sanels' and Mrs.Chambers with her, Captain Tatham called and Mrs Tatham arrived whilst he was withus - Mrs Saunderson and (Mr, Mrs?) Wills called.

Sunday 26 March 1854
Leo and I took a delightful walk over the hills - sitting down on the heather and reading Christian Year and talking many things. Returned and called at a Greek Gardener's cottage for water which they always have very clean - it was a miserable little hovel with no windows or chimney - a coffée-au-lait coloured man sat over the embers of a (hard?) fire turning a hurdy-gurdy one monotonous time which they seemed to enjoy very much -
Met Messrs Duma and Parmington, the former gave me a lovely bouquet of purple primeroses and heather and violets - Bosphorus beginning to assume its Eden like character. We had Patala up to speak with him and he gave us an account of the Greek grievances, what he complained of most bitterly was the conduct of his own priests - they were so rapacious and exacting - rather hard to blame the Turkish with too much toleration - the (razalis) or countrymen seemed by his account to suffer most from the Pasha's exertions - and also the justice administered by means of bribery was a third hardship.
Mr.Dunn came to tea.

Monday 27 March 1854
Leo and I took a pleasant ride towards the Black Sea - through Turkish villages - were hooted at by a Turkish child and many remarks were made upon us by the soliders - by no means flattering I daresay - Coming home by boat we were hailed by Captain Borlase who had heard from "Inflexible" just arrived from the Black Sea - that the Russians had crossed the Danube in great force - Omar retreating before them - I was terribly alarmed but Leo laughed at me - I wish French and English troops were here to defend Constantinople. Captain Borlase came to talk the matter over and thought that treachery might introduce the Russians into the country.

Tuesday 28 March 1854
Took a pleasant walk with Leo behind Therapia - met our friends the Greek Priests, and a Greek peasant who presented us with a bunch of Narcissus. Leo went to dine on board - Captain Drummond called before dinner at Table d'Hote - Mr.Webster, Queen's Messenger who is certain the Russians will be here in 15 days.

Mr.Matheson came to tea, he proved to be an old family friend, knew my father well in Knightsbridge days - and the Morrisons - many mutual friends - he was very pleasant, he is going to Syria now and returns here in May expecting to find things in Status Quo - then off to India and the Pacific and America - he told us several stories of Bishop Eden - and his horrid school fights - with (tiresome?) Lady (Patronesses?) and of the ridicule his appearance in shovel hat and apron excited in Spain when travelling there last year - "Niger" and ("Authinor" ?) passed up to the Black Sea - saw Captain Meads for an instant and received my little dog from Malta.

Wednesday 29 March 1854
Leo and I took a beautiful walk over the hills.

Thursday 30 March 1854
Went with Leo to Pera and Stamboul, shopped in Pera and then called upon Mrs.Hudson and saw Mrs.Giffard - there is a great though quiet commotion throughout the town on account of this edict - that all Hellenists are to leave the Turkish dominions in a given time - the best (road?) in 15 days, the riff-raff immediately - they are principally shopkeepers and traders who will lose much by the change and much ill will is created amongst them - we heard wild rumours about the Russians - the Greeks say they will be here immediately - the Turks that 10,000 were drowned in crossing the Danube and many guns lost.

The Turks have an absurd notion that we wish them to be well beaten and then to step in and "eat the oyster." They do not like their own irregular troops whom they send to Scutari - we heard the story of the Amazon lately arrived - who sent her lover to "turn a (Caranvea?) and return to her unhurt" before he presumed to her hand - and went but returned unsuccessful and with 3 wounds - when she called for her sword and spear - and (buckler?) mounted her horse - drove back the (Caravan?) and returned home unhurt and convinced that she was better than most men and did not require the support of (one,Hua?) and therefore remains unmarried dashing the tie - we walked from Pera to Stamboul - it was a fine day and I never thought the bazaars looked so pleasant - it was a great festival of (Mahomed?) which accounted perhaps for many strange costumes which we perceived - there was one little child all dressed in cloth of gold who rushed into a shop - I did not see her face - we bought table covers etc - and returned by steamer.

The Turkish ships all illuminated in honour of the false prophet.

- - - -
Tuesday 4 April 1854
Leo and I called on the (Skenes' ) and joined Mrs.(Fathom?) Lady Emily, Mrs.Chambers, Captain Borlase and Skene family in a walk and flower hunt - a beautiful day. We wandered up one of those lovely valleys sheltered from North winds and gazed in delight upon banks ennammelled with purple primroses, Christmas roses - (squills? ) and scyclamen and violets - afterwards called on Madam (Damican, Derrican?), found her very melancholy and triste - determined to go to France if her husband stays away 6 months - they say (Betien?) is a paradise to (Kinvera?) - no supplys and hot pestiferrus place and away from shore.

Came home - we heard that war is actually declared - England and France against Russia - this came by telegraphic dispatch - great misery arising, the Greeks - Hellenists - who do not know what to do with their wives and families - they are mostly poor traders and shopkeepers.

Mary Heath - letter book

4 April 1854 - Therapia.
My darling Adeline (my sister, Mrs.Loring - M.E.H.), I wonder how this letter finds you and whether you have a little girl or boy. But dear P. not to think one little bit about poor Pil Heath, all away amongst the barbarous Turks and Greeks!!

You are pleased to be very flattering Adeline dear, wait till I am tried and see if I can manage my affairs better or as well, rather as you. Genius and talent is all very well, but they have taken their flight from me for a long time! My brain is too much occupied by my husband, he is enough for all my wants, so that I am a sorry residue, I am afraid. I must wait to be developed till I get to Moorhurst.

At present, I am required to do nothing but arrange the room, put wood on the fire, speak to Louise some times when I get courage, and dress regularly, put down expenses without balancing, call and talk occasionally to offices and midshipmen. I was rather alarmed when I first heard that the Russians had crossed the Danube, but Leo assured my fluttering mind, and we can be off in a minute if any danger approaches.

The Greeks are the most dangerous, people say, The Turkish Government has sent all Hellenish back to Greece, which has caused much distress amongst them. They are mostly shop keepers, and do not know what in the world to do with their wives and children. - Horrid war! Horrid evil war! I cannot understand anyone wishing for war, if they do not consider for a moment the hosts of evils and suffering brought on the innocent. It is a dire necessity, and that is all that can be said.

I don't say anything of sailor's and soldier's wives, it is what they ought to have expected, or never have married into either of the warlike professions and most bear their sufferings, great though they certainly are, as if they were caused by voluntarily.
Write me all home details, darling Adeline, it makes me smell England, and English houses, and English gardens, and sweet English summer days. When we used to roam over beautiful Eastbury! in that delicious work, or back under that hedge, where Mama and you and I used to botanize, at least you and Mama did, whilst I dreamt, and gathered those little short burnt-sienna trefoils, and eat the sweet bits of grass, or perhaps go and get a hot peach, or a bunch of currants out of the garden, and sit towards evening on the stone steps.

I was interrupted, in my retrospective happiness, by Leo telling me to come to luncheon. I dressed fine for a change, to go and call and stumbled on a walking party - bound for the "Valley of Flowers" so we joined with them, some in Leo's gig, some in a caique, some walking, arrived at this beautiful valley, filled with flowers, violets, purple primroses, Christmas roses, Cyclamen and squills of azure blue.
Since then, we hear that war is declared and so adieu to peaceful ideas and flower gathering, now for anxiety, trembling, tears, and sorrow !!

Diary of Mary Heath continues . . .

Wednesday 5 April 1854
The "Fury" came in from the Black Sea, a report current that the "Banshee" had passed up the Bosphorus to the Fleet with the declaration of war - Captain Drummond came to luncheon - and received letters from the Admiral brought by Captain Tatham. Varna seems miserably supplied with food, nothing but a few fowls to be got - he said that 3,000 Russians had perished in crossing the Danube and that the transports were conducted very badly, the (borthen?) all drunk and the Turks raked them with grape - Captain Parker had picked up on the shore near (Rustanpik?), an unfortunate wounded woman and two helpless little wounded children, one 15 months old and the other 3 years old - it is said the atrocities committed by the Russians irregular cavalry is horrible.

Thursday 6 April 1854
"Retribution" off to the Black Sea - Leo and I wandered over the hills to sketch, met a Turkish officer who regarded my operations with many "Ah's" and expressions of wonder - Leo made him stand for his picture - which he did jibbering away in Turkish to us - which made us very sorry not to know the language - he seemed a good natured man enough - but not over courteous.

Friday 7 April 1854
Leo and I rode on the Pera roads and I disgraced myself with being frightened by coming across a (large?) dog - quite (large, scrage?) dogs who began barking at us - they are alarming decidedly, I cannot help thinking - the day was delicious and the views lovely - Mr.Ewart - engineer to dinner - he talks of the fortifications to be made at Gallipoli - and told us that the French have already begun to name the streets - and the French General has had a quarrel with the Pasha - about fire wood former said he must have fire wood for his soldiers - the Pasha said the wood boats would not come on account of the weather and he could not control the elements - The Frenchman said "he did not care - and he would pull down some of the houses to burn if the wood did not come." the case was referred to Constantinople - (a fits tolyin??) to quarrel about such trifles.

Saturday 8 April 1854
Leo and I went sketching - previously Lord Carlisle and Captain Moore called, they had come from Athens and were on their way to the Black Sea - Lord Carlisle in Turkish Fez - and was pleasant and affable - Captain Tatham left for the Fleet - and Leo and I went sketching on the hill - we saw some tortoises and (greentree?) frogs - returning we were met by a midshipman who told Leo "Niger" was preparing for sea - immediately - to carry the Declaration of War brought by "Banshee." Leo left in an hour or so - At night we had a dreadful storm of north wind.

Saturday 8 April 1854
Hampshire Advertiser

The Black Sea Fleet.
- - - Niger, 14 guns, 1013 tons, 170 crew, 400 horse power. - - -

Diaries of Lady Mary Heath continue . . . .
Sunday 9 April 1854
Walked in the French Gardens with Mrs.Tatham and Chambers and picked violets and then went to have afternoon tea with Lady Emily - met Mrs.Skene who gave a doleful account of affairs - Omar discouraged, had given up the defence of the Balkans - his army insubordinate - he is a sepulchral man and frightened us all.
Captain Borlase afterwards who gave us the true account of the passage of the Danube - 8,000 Russians lost and 5,000 Turks - the valour of the Turks was very great, they stood to their posts to a man - in one place a whole regiment of Egyptian troops were destroyed except 12 men andthe Colonel who were taken prisoners and treated with greatest respect by the Russians on account of their valour.

Had tea with Lady Emily - and the two ladies, a pleasant evening, she is so agreeable.

Saturday 29 April 1854
Hampshire Advertiser

The Black Sea Fleet - The Reception of the Declaration of War; And the Russian Attack upon the Fury, and Firing Upon the Boat with our Flag of Truce! (From our own Correspondents)

April 9 - Received by the Niger, 14, Commander Heath, from Constantinople, official intelligence of the "declaration of war," which was responded to in a most enthusiastic way by the seamen of the fleet, who manned the rigging, trucks, &c, of their respective ships (having first obtained permission), and gave three such hearty cheers as made the Bay resound again, assisted by both Admirals and officers, the former of whom witnessed it from the poop of the Britannia - it really was a beautiful sight, and made one thirst for a crack at the Russians.

The French not having as yet (10th) received official intimation of the declaration, could not join in, which much annoyed them, but when they do receive it we shall join the French in giving another cheer. Some of the Marines, in their anxiety, found themselves as high as the topmosthead, and lots of young Cadets were seen in the yards cheering and waving their hats in a most glorious manner.

Letter No.1
H.M.S. “Niger”
Baljik, April 10th, 1854

It is a bold thing to begin journal letters on such large paper but as I should like them all kept so that I may, if I return safe and sound, bind them up as a record of the Black Sea Campaign, it will be as well that they should be similar in form to Vol.1, of the ‘Adventures of Commander Heath.” I am the most lucky fellow possible, hitherto, for whilst others have been shivering, with ice on the decks, at Baljik, I have been comfortably idling at Therapia, with my ship next door to my wife; and here I am, having brought with me the declaration of war.

About a week ago a steamer passed at night through the Bosphorus, which for various reasons was generally supposed to be the “Banshee,” with the said declaration of war, and in consequence one senior officer after another left to join the Admiral until I alone remained. The “Highflyer” was the last to leave the Golden Horn, at 1 p.m., on the 8th; and at 2 p.m. the real “Banshee,” with the real declaration arrived. Her Commander had to go to the Embassy first, and make a beginning with his coaling, and it was nearly six in the evening before he, with his despatches, reached me at Therapia. Mary and I had been sketching up a neighbouring valley, and were walking leisurely back (not having heard the gun that had been fired on the arrival of the despatches) when we met a midshipman running to give me the information. We got away before eight o’clock, and reached the Admiral at half-past three on the 9th.

I meant to create great excitement by coming in with the whole signal flying at once, one word at each masthead, but the telegraphic announcement had been fully believed, and the effect was not therefore so great as it would otherwise have been. When the Admiral had read his despatches he too made the signal “War is declared.” The “Albion’s” crew manned the rigging and cheered, followed quickly by the other ships. I have made myself hoarse with my loyalty; I gave three cheers for the Queen, three for Old England, three for the French, three for the “Niger,” and one more for Old England.

The “Furious” returned from Odessa, having been sent there to bring away the Consul. She was off the port at half-past five in the morning showing a flag of truce, and sent a boat also with a flag of truce, to deliver the Consul’s letter. The boat was told it was too early and that at six o’clock the harbour master would come out; it therefore pulled back to the ship, which was lying-to, one and a-half or two miles off.

The boat was about a mile from the shore, when six successive shots from cannon were fired at her, the last being a shell’ the direction of the shot was good, but they had not enough elevation, and neither the boat nor the “Furious” was touched. Captain Loring having recovered his boat, went off as hard as he could after a Russian man-of-war ten miles down to leeward, but she escaped up the Dnieper, and the “Furious” returned here – it is a pity she did not wait out of gunshot to see if the harbour master would have come out. I have this account from Captain Loring himself, and so it would seem that Russian civilisation is that of a period beyond the days of the Trojan War, for I believe heralds were even then considered sacred.

The “Fury” (you must distinguish between her and the “Furious”) went off early this morning to begin work on our side by picking up anything she may find outside Sebastopol. The French steamer “Ajaccio,” bringing their despatches has not yet arrived; it is supposed her machinery has broken down, and our allies will not move without their official instructions. If the “Ajaccio” appears this afternoon we shall, I believe, all sail in the evening, but the programme of the campaign is kept secret.

Summer seems to have set in, it is almost oppressively hot to-day. We know nothing authentic about the position of the “Russians, but two of our line of battle ships, which have been detached at Varna are coming in, and may perhaps know something more. As to our own military operations, the works across the Isthmus at Gallipoli have already been begun.

When the French arrive their first proceedings astonished the Turks in general, as they named the streets and numbered the houses. They next astonished the Pasha in particular. Wood for the soldiers’ fires was not forthcoming, and the Pasha said the wind blew too hard for the boats to cross with it from the Asiatic coast. General Canrobert answered, “If none comes in six hours I shall take your houses.” And it came, but each chief has reported the conduct of the other to headquarters at Constantinople.

Our engineers are anxious to begin another Torres Vedras between Kara Bouroun on the Black Sea and Chekinyet on the Sea of Marmora; the line is twelve miles long. General Tylden, of the Engineers has had a fall from his horse, but is recovering.

Diary of Mary Heath continues ....

Monday 10 April 1854
Spent the evening with Lady Emily and ladies read 'Women's Life" aloud and working.

Tuesday 11 April 1854
"Banshee" arrived from the Black Sea with letters for us all - rumoured that the Fleets are gone to Odessa to attack it - the "Furious" went there with a flag of truce to demand the Consuls and was fired upon - disgraceful way of carrying on civilized warfare - The Czar gives out that his fleets are to stay in Sabastopol till he has taken Constantinople and then they will be very useful in driving out the allied squadrons. Madame (Damican?) had tea with Lady Emily and us 3 ladies - she was very amusing with her plans of going in ("Punch"?) to the Black Sea - and following the Fleet's every where - dressed up as "Un Grand Mmsse?" - we all laughed imensely - Captain Borlase who was highly amused.

Wednesday 12 April 1854
I took a long beautiful walk with Captain Borlase and Miss (Sanel?, Janel?) Spent the evening with Lady Emily and listened to "Women's Life."

The French steamer (Ajanis?) took out the French Declaration of War - it is a curious first - that two tremendous sudden storms of wind, North Black Sea wind encountered both English and French Declarations on entering the Black Sea.

Thursday 13 April 1854
An awfully stormy day, cold north wind and wretched rain and sleet falling - another engineer officer at dinner who amused us with accounts from Gallipoli. The French prepare very well he said and are anxious to be as accommodating as possible to the English army - after one of sittings of the Turkish Commission the French officer said he must name all the bullock carts in the country - The Engineer said he expected is army soon and what was to be done - The officer exclaimed through his thick moustache - "nous les parteyones en fréres" which mightily edified the Turks - One thing that struck them very much was - Mr.Calvert the interpretor to Lord Bingham asking for so much white bread - "This is for the officers," said the Turk "now for the common men." - The English officers and men all eat the same bread "said Mr.Calvert" - This was quite incomprehensible to the Turks - where there is such a vast distinction of rank and commons -

The French have named the streets and numbered the houses - They told the Turks they must do so - "Why" said the bothered Pasha "even Stamboul has no names or numbers to its houses and streets." "That is nothing to us" said the French man - "how are we to know where our heads lie?" and so there is Rue Canrobert and Rue Raglan painted up on the streets - and finger boards stuck all about with "rue la de Army" etc - The town as now quite a European aspect - the French and English get on very well together and the (privates?) hold long conversations in the street without understanding a word of their respective languages which does not nullify the Entente Cordiale I suppose.
The Greeks are very fond of the English who are quartered among them and they are much pleased by the polite manner in which Mr.Clavert asks "if they have any room for strangers in their house" meaning soldiers - instead of using the "Hail fellow" of the Turks.

Good Friday 14 April 1854
A storm of snow and hail and wind quite astonishing - and aweful such weather not known even to the inhabitants, the snow lying on the hills and miserably cold - Captain Dickson R.A., to dinner, he had been to (Ruschtule?) - and said how was the habit of both Turks and Russians of popping with their (Mimies?) at all the single people they could see - even women and children come down to get water at the river - A report that Sir C.Napier has destroyed 7 Russian sail of the line - The 41st and 33rd regiments arrived at Constantinople under Colonel Jones - The engineer aforesaid told us a good story apropos to Madame (Danieau's ?) name - The Prince de (Poix?) and of a very old French family came to pay his repects to Louis Phillipe - on one of the late Authorities and stopped at an entrance with his carriage of four where a sentinel had been placed to prevent entrance of any one - The sentinel opposed the further advance of the great man who exclaimed - "Savez vous qui je suis, je suis Le Prince de Poix!" "Etiez vous le roe des harricots" cried the soldier "vous ne passez pas par ici!!"

Sunday 16 April 1854
I went to Pera with Captain Borlase to church and spent the day with the Hansons' who seem good worthy people.

Monday 17 April 1854
Walked with Miss (Oneal, Omed?) and Lady Emily.

Tuesday 18 April 1854
Went to the Bazaar with Lady Emily. Madame (Danieau, Danican?), Captain Borlase and Mr.Reynolds. Madame D. made a capital bargainer and we enjoyed ourselves very much - ending our expedition with eating hot bread at a bakers and Isabobs - from a nighbouring cook's shop - we laughed a great deal and it was an extremely pleasant expedition, but one soon gets used to the curious costumes and sights and scenes about one and it seems as if one had always been here.

In the last place we stopped at a (RakatSrioru?) shop -- there was a fine Moor eating (a lony?) and smoking who asked if we were English and seemed much amused with our ways - and people came in to stare and look at us - at the bakers we all sat on a bench in a row with our innumerable parcels about us while Captain Borlase served us with (Rabohs?) with bits of roasted mutton which we eat with our fingers with the bread - the people about seemed most amused!

Letter No.2
H.M.S. “Niger”
Finished off Fidonisi Island (Black Sea, Roumania & Ukraine)
Tuesday April 18th, 1854

I should have supposed the use of “Banshees” and “Caradocs” was to give us an advantage over our enemies by having earlier information, and that on the “Niger’s” arrival strong steam squadrons would immediately have left the combined fleet, one of which might have made the southern point of the Crimea, and sweeping round by Kaffa Bay and the Circassian coast have picked up a few stray men-of-war, while the others making for the same point might have gone westward towards Odessa, and would certainly have caught a few stray merchant ships. with the exception, however, of the “Fury” being detached to Sebastopol on the morning of the 9th, no move was made until the afternoon of the 11th, when “Retribution,” “Descartes,” and “Niger” were started off for Odessa, where we arrived in the forenoon of the 13th. We took possession of a merchant brig lying outside, but left Russian colours flying as a decoy.

“Descartes” and “Niger” then went round the bay at a distance of something more than a mile to reconnoitre the newly-made batteries. Thousands of people were up on the cliff looking at us, and being all dressed in black or blue we at first thought they must be troops; but they were too mobbish for that.

The town seems handsomely built of stone, and is well supplied with brightly-painted domes and cupolas; the Cathedral has a tall spire. The position of the town is something like that of Brighton, but the plain on which it is built slopes rather more away from the sea. There is the same sort of cliff but a wider beach, on which are built store-houses, quarantine establishments, etc., etc., and all the new batteries are along it and on the piers, which are built out and form artificial harbours, containing some 200 sail of vessels, thirty or forty of them being English.

A brig lying about fifteen hundred yards from the beach unwisely showed Russian colours as we passed, and just as our reconnaissance was completed she began to think she had done a foolish thing and therefore slipped her chain and made sail towards the shore; the “Niger” was after her directly, and hooking her on en passent towed her out triumphantly, passing within twelve hundred yards of the batteries, which to our surprise did not fire. The moment the “Descartes” saw what we were up to she gallantly stood in, ready to support us had we been fired at. Modesty ought to compel me not to say that the “Retribution” made the signal “Very well done.”

Meanwhile a boat had gone out to the “Retribution” to know what we had come for’ Captain Drummond would give no direct answer, but asked if there was any explanation relative to the “Furious” having been fired at when her flag of truce was up’ and we suppose that the forbearance shown in not firing at us arose from the Governor’s knowledge that he was in a scrape for having on that occasion been too hasty with his guns. Having thus got two prizes, which were both empty, I went after a vessel coming down the Dnieper, which turned out to have about thirty tons of linseed on board.

It was arranged that the next morning the “Retribution” should remain to receive any communication that might arrive, and that we should go on towards the Dnieper, whilst “Descartes” went towards the Dniester.

Having got as far as I had been told to go, I saw ahead a Russian transport in tow of a tug, and went on in hopes of bringing in the first pendant; but she was inside the river, where I could not with any safety follow without a pilot, so I contented myself with having verified the chart as far as the very mouth of the river and with capturing six more vessels, two of them being laden with coals, and then returned to the “Retribution,” which had herself taken two small craft. I showed Russian colours when chasing the transport, and was in hopes when I lowered them half-mast she would fancy me on shore and send the tug to assist me, but as she made some signal, which of course I could not answer, she naturally smelt a rat.

And indeed, as there are telegraphs all along the coast our arrival had of course been reported. A fort called Kinbourn amused itself with firing at me, but as I was three and a-half miles from it they might as well have saved their powder.

The 15th was employed in transhipping our linseed and two cargoes of oatmeal to the best of our empty brigs, and in putting the coal into the steamers. I took a fruitless cruise to Tendra, and the Frenchman picked up a fine brig laden with salt. Our orders obliged us to return to the rendezvous off the Island of Fidonisi. Whilst en route I descried a large schooner, which I chased on shore and sent the boats in to destroy, she was a fine, well-found vessel, laden with salt. We helped ourselves to all sorts of little useful articles and then set her on fire. I walked off with her bell and intend setting it up at Moorhurst, also a little deal whatnot, the very image of the one Julia has there, and I intend it to take its place in the same corner.

It seems barbarous work capturing all these little vessels, but it is the only way of stopping the trade, which is what we want to do. I don’t suppose another vessel will show outside their harbours for some time, and the inhabitants of the coast from the Dnieper to the Dniester will bear no good will to their Emperor for the sufferings they will in consequence be subjected to.

April 17th. – The “Sidon” has arrived and carries off the “Retribution” and “Descartes” to attack the batteries at the Sulina mouth of the Danube. I am to remain in case the Admiral should arrive at the rendezvous, however as they are specially ordered not to land or in any way to expose their ships to danger, I don’t much regret being left. The battery mounts only six guns, but there are some gunboats also. Even supposing they succeed to the utmost extent they will, in my opinion, have done nothing useful, for as soon as they are gone the Russians may begin and build doubly strong forts, and it seems to me a mere waste of coal, powder, and shot.

April 18th – The steamers left last night but returned this morning, the weather being too bad to make the attempt, smooth water being a necessary element for successful target practice at two thousand yards distance *[in those days the guns were smooth-bore.] the “Sidon” returns to her station and we despatch one of our full prizes to Constantinople, and I suppose await the arrival of the fleet. I am quite full of coal, thanks to the prizes. The “Fury” took a man-of-war schooner off Sebastopol, but was chased by a superior force and had to let go the prize; From prisoners she learnt that fourteen Russian line of battle ships were ready for us.

Diary of Mary Heath at Constantinople continues....

Wednesday 19 April 1854
Walked in the French Gardens with Lady Emily, Miss (Oned?) and Mrs.Chambers - Table D Hôte Lord Carlisle and others - the dinner was stupid, no one talked - In the evening we all mesmerised and played tricks at Lady Emily's.

Thursday 20 April 1854
Miss (Orreds, Oneds?), Lady Emily, Madame (Danicaeu?) myself, Mrs Chambers and Tatham escorted by Captain Borlase with two horses to ride and he took a long country walk, it was very pleasant as long as we could keep out of the cold north wind. General (Gilden?) to dinner, he says if peace is made after the protocols of Prussia and Austria - it will be some time before the English and French troops evacuate the country, years!
A report that 15 merchant vessels, one steamer have been taken at Odessa - where everyone is in a great panic and flying into the interior - Miss (Oned?) especially pleasant - she told me of a curious American young lady of 20 living alone with another of 18 at Sorrento - possessed with a great talent drawing and sculpture, a pupil of Gibsons's and to become the wonder of the age - She amused by her lively description of the free and easy manners of this person - her want of beauty and charm - She passes all day on horseback composing her pictures, which she commits to paper in the evenings.

Friday 21 April 1854
All the ladies, Mrs.Saunderson and daughters went to see the Greek service in the church - A table with a canopy was placed in the middle of the aisle upon which were sacred pictures - 4 plates to (refine?) the offerings and bunches of flowers - a man sat at the table to dispense the bouquets and receive the money - men, women, children and even babies were brought to kiss the pictures, those women who were sick and all the children passed under the table creeping on hands and knees, sometimes two or three times - something like passing through Maloch's fire - there was to be a grand procession at night - which we did not see - we gave money and had flowers given us - it was a pretty sight as there is much beauty amongst the Greek girls - and their head-dresses and bright coloured (herscheives) twisted in their fine hair is very becoming.
There seems a general expectation that the allied armies will stay some years in the country, peace or no peace - The Sultan is trying to prevent the French entering his capital - fearing the fate of Rome.

File PB1010135

Part of letter from Georgina [1854?] to Stamford Caldwell (winter)

Continues.. only a question of weeks or months, and he has lost the sight of his other eye. Poor Sir Hyde [Parker 1784-1854, married Caroline Eden], it is such a melancholy ending of his life.

His niece, Mrs Eden, is so anxious to go to him but it seems to be impossible.

I am afraid I have no news to tell you except about the Russian [prisoners?] who I have not seen, but they seem to be [thankless?] disagreeable and insolent, and a young lady told me yesterday that she believed it was quite true that they had attempted to poison the tank which supplies the town with water, buying Arsenic from a chemist, who, however, was on his guard, and gave them some innocent powder instead which they threw into the tank. But I almost doubt the story. Do not you. For they would have been obliged to buy such a huge quantity to produce any effect.

I hope as we hear nothing of your, dear Uncle Caldwell, that you are pretty well. But you will scarcely get out in your wheeled chair, I am afraid this winter weather and will miss that small modicum of [excitement?] and pleasure.

I had hoped to get up to Government House to see Mrs Eden today, but the day, I fear, will be too stormy, and it is such a muddy road. I shall hardly be fit to be seen when I get there.

Aunt Me sends you her kindest regards, and wishes you would come more among us all, and not shut yourself up, that you are formed to be agreeable and she is sure you would be better in health, and be [cround?] younger.

There is a fluttering message dear Uncle Caldwell.
Believe me ever,

Your very affectionate niece,
Georgina A. Marsh.
Please excuse this thin envelop.

stamp on it with - 11th April 1854
Chancery Fee Fund
One Shilling
Six Pence

In the Executorship of Arthur Cuthbert Marsh deceased.

I ANNE MARSH of Eastbury in the County of Herts the Widow and Executive of the last Will and Testament of Arthur Cuthbert Marsh late of Eastbury aforesaid Esquire deceased Make Oath and say That the said deceased was at the time of his Deceased justly and truly indebted to (inserted line) Richard Creed of Bedford Square in the County of Middlesex Esquire

Amelia Marsh of Devonport in the County of Devon Spinster,

Hannah Eliza Roscoe York Road Richmond in the County of Surrey, Widow

Georgina Nelson Marsh of Sloane Street Chelsea in the County of Middlesex Spinster,

Rosamond Jane Marsh of Eastbury aforesaid Spinster

now Hannah Adelaide Loring Wife of The Reverend Edward Henry Loring Clerk

George Cuthbert Marsh of The Honorable East India Company’s service) Esquire

George Delmar --- of 46 Lincolns Inn fields in the said County of Middlesex and Messrs Delmar and Wynne of the same place Solicitors for and in respect of several sums of money lent and advanced to them respectively to the said Arthur Cuthbert Marsh or for his use in his lifetime,

and at his request , that is to say to the said (inserted)

Richard Creed in the principal sum of Fifty pounds to the same ,

Amelia Marsh in the principal sum of Five hundred pounds

to the said Hannah Eliza Roscoe the principal sum of One hundred and sixteen pounds seventeen shillings

to the said Georgina Nelson Marsh the principal sum of Two hundred and seven pounds nineteen shillings

to the said Rosamund Jane Marsh the principal sum of Forty nine ** pounds nineteen shillings

to the said Hannah Adelaide Loring the principal sum of One hundred and five pounds

to the said George Cuthbert Marsh the principal sum of Five pounds

to the said George Delmar the principal sum of Five hundred and fifteen pounds thirteen shillings and eight pence and the sum of Thirteen pounds twelve shillings and Five pence for interest thereon accrued in the lifetime of the said Deceased and

to the said Messieurs Delmar and Wynn the principal sum of Seven Pounds twelve shillings and nine pence being the Balance due to them on their Cash Account with the Deceased up to the time of his decease

And I further make Oath and say that the whole of the said several sums have been fully paid and satisfied by me as Executrix as aforesaid since the death of the said Deceased.(Added later possibly) And I further make oath and say that the Diamond included by me in my former aff--- in the matter so forming part of the a--- of the said deceased and of the value of Fifty pounds has since been sold by me for the sum of forty pounds.

Sworn at the Record and Writ cleark office Chancery Lane in the County of Middlesex this eleventh day of March 1854 by me.

Anne Marsh (signature)
JAM---- (signature not legible.)

PB120066
Letter from AMC to Stamford followed by another longer one the following day.
Eastbury,
21st April [1854]

My dearest Stamford,
I have been obliged to be out in the wood all morning and shall not have time to answer your nice conversation letter before post today, so I shall put that off till tomorrow when I shall have time, but I will not let this post go without thanking you warmly for the cheque. And for the feeling and consideration for dear Rose. In making her the medium of your liberality. I fell it very much indeed.

I shall transmit your present by the next Marseilles(via) Post. But perhaps she may be gone to Constantinople, so that it will be longer than ordinary before she can return you her thanks for it. She will feel all the kindness of the idea thoroughly.

You little know the pleasure and comfort your conversational letters give me. It seems as if I were talking with you. I feel more than ever lonely now poor dear Sir Hyde is gone.

You are the last left of those near and dear to me of our standing. It draws one very close. I will write a full conversation answer to your letter tomorrow.

Today it is too late.

Ever your affectionate sister, A.M.

Diary of Mary Heath continues - - - Therapia / Constantinople

Tuesday 25 April 1854
The Misses Orreds(?), myself, Lady Emily and her nephew, a nice youth of 18, Mr.Morton, Madame Danican(?), Miss Skene(?) and Captain Borlase, we at dawn to Sectan (Seckin?) in Ciques (Sirkeci?) - it was a charming day and the Bosphorus looked as beautiful as its reputation - we arrived at the same time as some fresh English troops were arriving and the scene was most curious - the soldiers and the horses disembarking the ox-carts - the picturesquely dressed peasants, Greek and Turk - was most novel - we ascended the hill passing by the (mysterious?) barracks - and came out upon a wide stretching (wonderous?) plain (Gulhane Park) - bounded on one side by the famour cemetery of Scutari with its dark cyprus trees - and (turbaned? ) tombs in every attitude - inclined and erect - the wolfish yellow dogs prowling about- the other side looked over the sea of Marmora with its islands and ships - crowds of curiously attired people wandered up and down - the Turk priest in black gown and snow white turban, the sinister or dandy Greek in European or - dusky loose bloomers and dark jacket - veiled women walking or in Arabas -

The soldiers here encamped - and seemed in high spirits - we sat some time watching a slight inspection, talking and laughing amongst ourselves to the amusement of a party of Turk with lovely children - then we wandered again and finally took refuge from heat and hunger under the cypresses again and picnicked whilst the passers by stopped to look at us - we sketched, which is always a most marvellous performance to the Turkish who collected in crowds around us and followed us trying to look at the drawings. 3 wretched Greeks were to be hung as a warning to others, they had murdered one soldier of the 88th and severely wounded a second in that very cemetery, the body of the poor man been found there with its legs cut off - how horribly savage! and indeed the expression of the Greek countenance is one that is impossible to trust.
We came home after having walked round the palace like barrack at Scutari - where everything seemed to be at 6's and 7's till the wished for arrival of Lord Raglan.

Wednesday 26 April 1854
Quiet day - heard from Leo - he has taken 6 Prizes, merchants.

Thursday 27 April 1854
Its heard again by "Terrible" from the Black Sea. Odessa forts are destroyed by a squadron of the allied steamers with the loss of only 1 man and 10 wounded. My husband not there - but well employed in helping of the "Sidon" from a bank in the Sulina mouth of the Danube.
Friday 28 April 1854
Walked in the Gardens.

Saturday 29 April 1854
All the ladies took a long walk - Mrs.Chambers and I walked in the gardens - hear no news.

Saturday 29 April 1854
Hampshire Advertiser

The Black Sea Fleet - The Reception of the Declaration of War; And the Russian Attack upon the Fury, and Firing Upon the Boat with our Flag of Truce! (From our own Correspondents)

The French not having as yet (10th) received official intimation of the declaration, could not join in, which much annoyed them, but when they do receive it we shall join the French in giving another cheer. Some of the Marines, in their anxiety, found themselves as high as the top-mosthead, and lots of young Cadets were seen in the yards cheering and waving their hats in a most glorious manner.

File PB120068
Letter AMC to Stamford. April 1854
My dearest Stamford,

It is ages since I have written to you, and all from a certain feeling of doubt whether you like to have a letter from me or not. But before this year runs on any further I feel that I must give you few lines to remind you that your poor Anne exists. And to wish you many happy new years. As I most sincerely do.

The passage of every year robs one of so many that one feels, at least I do, drawn closer and closer to those few childhood friends that remain. And to you most of all, dear brother. If one could but have a line from you, a mere line would do, to tell us how you are and that you love us still.

Poor Sir Hyde, what a sad suffering departure was his, quite blind, except a little glimmering of light, and his chest so oppressed, he was obliged to lean forwards resting upon his hands.

Dear Sarah Wedgwood fell down and broke her thigh at the hip joint. And it was impossible at her age (past eighty) to set it again. She wished to die. Though she was patient to live, in her the world has lost a very valuable person. To the very last she was as earnest as ever in the promotion of every benevolent object.

Some way I cannot help feeling a certain jealousy lest those who have the world in their hands now, must good as they unquestionably do, may be less alive to the importance of the great questions which concern the welfare of the Race than those strong noble spirits such as Sarah W Wilberforce [continues…?]

Diary of Mary Heath at Therapia / Constantinople

Sunday 30 April 1854
Sail up all day - had sundry visits from the ladies - Lord Raglan is arrived by all are in ignorance of the plan of the Campaign.

Monday 1 May 1854
I and Louise took a charming (pull?) on the water in a Caique on the Asia side seeing such pretty little bits and scenes - a man saying his prayers devoutly under a tree - and a man and horse stopping at a fountain to drink - we then went to see the Sultan's Garden which is laid out much in the English style and very pretty. I was led over the place by a Turk with whom I managed to interchange a few words in his own language.

Tuesday 2 May 1854
I kept at home - "Terrible" went off to the Black Sea with letters from us all and Leo linen I sent with it - Mr.Morton also left. Iwas very sorry, he is such a nice youth - The ladies and Captain Borlase had tea in my room.

Wednesday 3 May 1854
I went in my caique with Mrs.Tatham, then in the French Gardens - which are beginning to be beautiful - no news except that the Greeks say 5 English ships have been taken by the Russians in the Baltic - Bless them!! The English army is to be under the Command of the French General, the French Squadron is to be under the command of the English Admiral.

I called in the morning on Mrs.Saunderson who told me of the quareel between the French Ambassador and the Turkish Government - he was instigated by the R.C.Bishop to ask for the immunity of Greek Roman Catholics from the sentence of banishment. Lord (Russel? Shubad?) very harsh words with him - but he was obstinate and determined to gain his point or quit Constantinople in 24 hours - The Turks were obliged to revoke the sentence for Greeks of all denominations. The French have lost much in their esteem - and the French themselves are very angry with (Baraging D'Villiers?) - he is to leave soon they say - The said English are very popular being noted so much more generous then their French Allies. She told me an amazing story of a Turkish lady, very proud, who came to call on Madame (Sasem?) Pasha which she has there - She said - "It was so disagreeable there were nothing but (Girons?) to be seen - she could not find any quiet place - the Giroirs were everywhere!" The Turks feel very (minute?) indeed when they look at our soldiers and compaire them with their lots of shabby ragamuffins.

Wednesday 3 May 1854
Morning Herald (London)

The War - The Black Sea - Bombardment of Odessa.
The Sidon, 22, paddle, Captain Goldsmith; Firebrand, 6, paddle, Captain Drummond; Niger 14, screw, Commander Heath, and another Frenchman, are gone towards Odessa.

Wednesday 3 May 1854
Morning Herald (London)

The War - The Black Sea - Bombardment of Odessa.

4229/1/4/1-7

Regr K.M. No.2 1850 to 238
Arthur Cuthbert Marsh deceased
46 Lincoln Inn Fields
May 1854

Gentlemen,
With reference to certain queries which have arisen on proceeding with the application of the executrix for return of Probate duty we have written to her and the following are her explanations.-

The £500 paid to Miss Amelia Marsh, who is the eldest Sister of the late Arthur Cuthbert Marsh – was in repayment of four Grand Junction Canal Shares belonging to her borrowed by the deceased in 1852 and sold by him for £472 and of one years Dividend thereon amounting to £28 Making together the £500 which was repaid to Miss Marsh by the Executrix as per receipt produced – The money was borrowed in November 1852 and as the Executrix believe for the purpose of purchasing some additional Imperial Gas shares to qualify Mr. Marsh for the place of Director of that Company which he afterwards became - his own number of shares then held not being quite sufficient.

The Executrix has in her possession a copy in the deceased own handwriting of a letter from him to the Creditor shewing the terms on which the shares were borrowed --.---.—and of which the following is a copy

“Eastbury 15th November 1842 My dear – Amelia, As this is to be a letter on business and which you must preserve, it shall be confined to that business only. You have been so good at my request to lend me 4 of your Grand Junction Canal shares: which I have sold for £118 each making together £473; I undertake to pay you the Dividends on those shares at the rate now paid on them by the Company viz £7 per share, until I am able to repay you the Principal, and when that time comes, you shall elect either to have 4 shares bought for you or to receive the £470 which is the produce of the present sale.

As a Security for this loan I hereby give you a lien and claim on 10 shares in the Imperial Gas Company, of the present value of £68 each, and I declare that should I die before I have repaid you, your claim on me is to be satisfied from these shares and should they prove insufficient for that purpose, the deficiency shall be made good from my other property – Anne is sole executrix of my Will and she will put her signature to this letter in token of her cognizance of this arrangement and of her obligation to carry it into effect.” On being paid off Miss Marsh used her privilege of choice and demanded the money – instead of the replacement of the shares, which she accordingly received.

The transaction with Miss Georgina Nelson Marsh (who is youngest step sister of the deceased) took place in the year 1843.

In April June and September of that year various £32 shares in the London and North Western Railway were lent to the deceased amounting in all to ten £32 shares equivalent to £320 Stock, of this £80 stock was repaid at a cost of £86.17 and subsequently £100 at the cost of £121.2.0

Making £207.19.

The remainder has not yet been repaid.

The money was as far as the Executrix can recollect borrowed for the purpose of purchasing stock for and carrying on the draining at Eastbury Farm belonging to the deceased.

Diary of Mary Heath at Therapia / Constantinople continues . . . .

Thursday 4 May 1854
Nothing happened but that the ladies returned from (Broussa ?) after a very successful journey.

Friday 5 May 1854
Went in the Caique with Louisa, a lovely day - and then in the French Gardens.

Saturday 6 May 1854
We all went in Caique to see some Armenian ladies in their Country Villa at (Zenokore?) - it was a most amazing visit, we were introduced by Madame Saunderson and daughters who speak Turkish perfectly. Two of the Turkish ladies were dressed in Turk costume which consists of a pair of full trousers - and a train with a loose body of the same material - hanging before and behind - ande a jacket - and handkerchief twisted in the hair - the women are obliged to walk very awkwardly - with a sweep of each leg as they move to avoid their trains - but before they tucked them up in their belts I thought the effect rather Queenly - some manage to be more graceful than others - but when the trains are tucked up the trousers are completely exposed to view and they look a most unfeminine garment.

We sat in a row, had sweetmeat and coffee and then Sherbet, visited the bath - and talked through interpreters to the ladies with the ladies who asked very queer questions! - they looked miserably dull - and indeed have nothing to do but embroider, talk and gossip and scandal, eat sweetmeats and spend their husband's money in magnificent apparel - we afterwards walked in the garden which was very pretty - quantities of oranges, lemon trees - the house was beautifully clean and well furnished and spacious - the sons always bring their wives to their father's house.

Sunday 7 May 1854
Letters from the Fleet and Malta - Captain Powell called on his way to the Black Sea.
- - -

Wednesday 10 May 1854
- a large party head to the Bazaar with the Saundersons - who were escorted by two or three sons of Mars - we walked about (this?) place (and?) horribly dirty and bought a good deal of "human rubbish" as Mr.(Cleugh, Clough?) of Malta designated the contents of the Bazaar.

Thursday 11 May 1854
We all went to see Madame Camil Bey at her house on the Bosphorus, her manners were perfect and she was most polite and hospitable - she is a Jeune Turque - and detests all the constraints of Turkish habits, longs to go to a ball décolté and to ride on horseback, poor little thing. I was very sorry for her - pretty, clever, and talented - unable to write or read and shut up with her slaves or gossiping Turkish ladies - she shewed us Muslins from Paris which Alas! she could not have made a la Francaise but must keep to her old trousers and trains - and her Jashmack instead of open bonnet. She might not even step out on her balcony or into her garden unveiled - we dressed up in the (Jashmack?) - to amuse ourselves - and then were presented with flowers from her husband who had just arrived - to add to Madame's sorrows there was a lovely slave whom the husband will marry some day and foresake her - without infringing any moral or social laws.

Friday 12 May 1854
Went alone with Saundersons to the (Theet?) waters of Asian. No one there, hardly. Here beset by a set of most silly and giggling Turkish house maids - to judge by their red rough hands - and then found a party of ladies who were sitting on the grass - two very handsome - and a dog, children mostly girls of 7 and 8, beautiful little creatures with abundance of hair, they wash their heads in the bath once or twice a week, never use (pomatum?) or brush - one of the ladies asked if I could read and write and expressed her astonishment to her companions at the universal power all Europeans seemed to possess of writing and reading "down to the very porters."
We stayed some time but it is very disagreeable walking about without a European man with one - as the Turks do not care letting out offensive epithets, and worse upon defenceless women.

Mary Heath's letter book

May 1854, Therapia, Constantinople.
Now this letter, darling P, is going to be quite different from the other two. The other day a whole party of us ladies went with some native ladies, who speak Turkish perfectly, to see Madame Carmil Bey.

It is the fasion now amongst the Turks, to have only one wife, as they find that two or three are expensive, promote discord, and are not pleasant. We were most politely received by a charming little woman "Madame" dressed à la Turque and pretty, and whose wide forehead and bright eyes bespoke cleverness and good sense. Poor little thing! She sees too much and detests Turkish manners and habits, is longing to get out, and says it is so unfair, that the men should go an amuse themselves and keep their "families" as the wife is called, shut up - Poor thing, my heart bled for her, it seemed such a wretched, dull life.

She keeps her house and slaves in beautiful order, everything was lovely clean, and chairs and pictures and &c like French furniture.

We had the usual delicious sweetmeats, a sort of blancmange composition of varoius fruits, coffee and sherbet. We dressed ourselves up in Yackmahes, which amused the old mothers to a great degree, and spent two or three hours there. We are to go again to eat strawberries and grapes some day. Poor woman, their position is certainly a wretched one.

Diary of Mary Heath continues...

Saturday 13 May 1854
Very cold, wretched weather - heard from Leo by "Descartes" and Captain Willis, my Leo soon coming to see me - having unfortunately got his ship upon a rock - Captain Willes said nothing was doing adn the maxim of the war was "Don't let us hurt the poor fellows." Colonel Dacres R.A. to dinner, a pleasant man. Herad no news except that the Artillery horses were dying for want of a vetinary surgeon!

Sunday 14 May 1854
Bishop Tillotson of Gibraltar and Malta and Mr.(Cleughan?) came to give us evening service - The Bishop a very intelligent and pleasant man - he is working hard to get a Church built at Constantinople - a handsome one that the Infidels may know what is the English Manner of worship.
Monday 15 May 1854 - - - -

Dean and Chapter of Rochester
Leases

Shorne rectory with the barn and barnyard, tithes, profits, commodities and emoluments but excepting the tithes, profits, commodities and emoluments arising out of land and premise in the entire borough of Tonge in Shorne.
Lessee: Arthur Cuthbert Marsh of Eastbury, Watford, Hertfordshire, esq. B
Term: 21 years

Rents: Rents: £20 plus 5 quarters good sweet merchantable wheat at Midsummer; 10s. a year to be distributed among the inhabitants of the parish; and green rushes for the church.
Conditions 1. Grace 21 days, 2a, 2b, 9 as above; 12 16, 20, 23, 25, 70
Conditions: 1. Grace 21 days; 2a, 2b, 9 2 quarters wheat 3 quarters barley to be paid to the vicar at Michaelmas and Lady Day each year at the rate of 6s.8d/quarter for wheat and 4s/quarter for barley*, 20s. to the Bishop of Rochester each year plus 12. on his visitation; and 7s.6d. to the Archdeacon of Rochester for proxies on his visitation.; 12, 16, 20.6 months; 23-25; 70
* In consideration of this the Dean and Chapter made a payment of 35s. every half year to the lessee.
File updated by Borough Archivist, Medway Council 19 January 2001.

Date: 29 June 1854
Quantity: 1 document

Leopold Heath's list of letters

40 - 16 May 1854 - Memo re enemy secret weapon?

Saturday 27 May 1854
Lyttletom Times
At Constantinople - The following force remained at Constantinople, January 1:-
- - Niger, screw, 14, Commander Heath. - -

Monday 29 May 1854
Morning Chronicle

On the 26th of last month the town of Varna was astonished by the spectacle of a steamer towing six brigs after her. She showed the proper signals, and was admitted with her little flock into the harbour. She proved to be her Majesty's steam-sloop Niger, having six prizes, taken at Odessa, in charge. The latter were sold next morning to the highest bidders at very fair prices for war time; and, what was more extraordinary,

Commander Heath started the day after, with the price of five out of the six, for the fleet. The vessels were nearly empty, but on board of one were found the personal chattels, and stores for some six months, of Admiral something "koff" - the same, it is believed, who commanded at Sinope. His wife's millinery and other frippery, a considerable quantity of most excellent coffee, a large store of loaf sugar, some very fine flour, and a quantity of a coarser description, probably intended for his servants, were among the articles found on board. The stores were sold, with the vessels, gear, &c., to the highest bidders; but the private property, clothes, &c. Commander Heath (like a gentleman) took away with him to the fleet, with the intention of sending them into Odessa or some other Russian port, with his compliments, on the first opportunity.

Mary Heath's letter book

Tuesday 30 May 1854
Sun (London)

Retribution, April 17, 1854; rendezvous 15 miles east of Fidonisi.

(Captain T.R.Drummond) "Sir, - I have the honour to inform you that, in pursuance of your instructions dated the 11th inst., I proceeded off Odessa, having under my orders her Majesty's steam-sloop Niger, and in co-operation with me the Fench steam-frigate Descartes.

The morning of the 13th inst. off Cape Fontan Light, I prevented a Danish ship from entering into Odessa, she having on board at the time contraband for the enemy - namely, a cargo of coals. On arriving off Odessa, Niger captured two merchant brigs lying at anchor outside the mole; one of them slipped, and was within range when the Niger captured her. The crews I have detained on board a prisoners, subject to your further instructions.

I made an exception in favour of some passengers - viz., two men, two women, and two children; these I sent on shore in a small captured vessel to Odessa previoius to my departure.

The Governor of Odessa sent an officer with a flag of truce to make some explanations respecting the boat of the Furious having been fired upon on a late occasion. I declined to received any verbal explanation on this subject. The following day an aide-de-camp of the Governor came off, but again, as his communication was verbal, I declined to accept it. Subsequently, about 4 in the afternoon of the 14th, the officer returned with a letter from the Governor to your address, which I have the honour to forward.
The number of vessels captured and destroyed is enumerated in the enclosed list.Total, 13; crews, 51; of which 23 are prisoners in this ship, and 28 in the Descartes.

Commander Heath, who was detached on the 14th inst. to reconnoitre towards the Dnieper, observed a Russian transport in two of a steam-tug; he chased the vessels, but, after following them as far as the first beacons at the entrance of the Dnieper, and into three fathoms of water, he deemed it not advisable to detach his boats without the support of the ship. The transport was at a distance of five miles, and had got within the entrance, and under protection of the forts of Kinbourn and Nicholaef. The former fort fired several shots at the Niger, but at a distance of four miles. On return Commander Heath captured six country vessels, two with a full cargo of English coal on board, a third with a small quantity , all bound up the Dnieper to Nicholaef. I thought it advisable to take possession of this coal for her Majesty's service, and therefore purchased it for Government, and supplied the several quantities, as per receipts, to the Retribution, Descartes, Sidon, and Niger. - - -

I detached the Niger to examine the coast about Tendra; Commander Heath stood well inside the bay, and found the soundings as laid down in the chart perfectly accurate; as he did also within the Three Fathoms Bank at the entrance of the Dnieper. - - - -

It has been very gratifying to me the cordial co-operation of the captain of the French frigate Descartes, and I have been much indebted to Commander Heath, of the Niger, for his examination of the Dnieper entrance and Tendra Bay, and for his efficient assistance in enabling me to carry out your instructions relative to capturing and destroying the enemy's vessels. I left my position of Odessa on the night of the 15th, at the expiration of 60 hours. At daylight, observed the Niger standing towards the land; Com. Heath reported to me on rejoining that he chased on shore, burnt, and destroyed a Russian schooner laden with salt; the crew escaped on shore in their boat.

I reached the rendezvous on Serpent Island at 5.am. this morning, with the Descartes, Niger and nine prizes, to await further instructions.

The following is a list of Russian vessels captured by her Majesty's ships Retribution and Niger, and the French Imperial frigate Descartes, between the 13th and 16th days of April, 1854:-
The St. Constantine brig, empty, captured by the Niger.
The Graphonitite brig, linseed and oatmeal, captured by the Niger.
The St.Peter and Paul, brig, empty, captured by the Niger
The St.Nicolas lugger, oatmeal, captured by the Retribution - Destroyed.
The St.Nicolas, schooner, empty, captured by the Nigher.
The St.Nicolas, lugger, empty, captured by the Niger.
The Annee lugger, coals, captured by the Niger.
The St.Speridon lugger, coals, captured by the Niger. Destroyed.
The Proce Bragenia lugger, coals, captured by the Niger.
The Elchiina brig, salt, captured by the Descartes.
The St.Nicolas lugger, linseed, captured by the Niger. Discharged into the Graphonite; sent into Odessa, with passengers, women and children.
The Unknown schooner,salt, chased and destroyed by the Niger.
T.R.Drummond, Captain and Senior Officer present.

Tuesday 30 May 1854
Morning Chronicle

Prizes. The following is a copy "of despatch of Vice- Admiral Dundas to the Secretary of the Admiralty, giving an account of the capture of certain prizes by her Majesty's ship Retribution, and two other war steamers, in the Black Sea" - Britannia, off Odessa, April 21 1854

Sir - I beg you will acquaint the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty, that the combined squadrons left Baljik Bay on the 17th and anchored off Odessa on the 20th inst.

This morning the Retribution and Descartes rejoined, and I transmit copies of Captain Drummond's reports of proceedings since he was detached on the 11th instant; and I trust that the zeal, activity, and judgment displayed by Captain Drummond and Commander Heath will meet their lordships' approval. - - - I have, &c., (Signed) J.W.D.Dundas, Vice-Admiral, The Secretary of the Admiralty.
- report of day before repeated.

Wednesday 31 May 1854
Morning Herald (London)

The War - The Loss of the Tiger, Paddle-Steamer-Frigate.

Although we have yet no official report of the loss of the Tiger, 15, paddle, Captain Henry Wells Giffard, at Odessa, yet the latest news from Admiral Dundas's fleet leaves us no longer hope for pronouncing the Russian Baron Munchausen's story an unfounded dispatch. We now learn that the Niger, 14, screw, Commander Heath, returned to Sebastopol, from the coast of Circassia, on the 11th of May, and on that day the Tiger, with the Niger and Vesuvius, 6, paddle, Commander Popplewell, proceeded to Odessa.
This is stated that it was on the 12th that the Tiger was stranded, and that too, before two steamers could to her assistance. It has been mentioned that the Niger was one of the two steamers. The official facts, therefore, taken in connection with the Russian statements, leave us little ground for disbelieving the report, at least of the loss of the Tiger.

We trust, however, that some of the Tiger's crew escaped to the Niger or the Vesuvius, and it is from them we may expect the true statement of the unfortunate catastrophe.

Thursday 1 June 1854
Nottinghamshire Guardian

Confirmation of the Loss of the Tiger.

The reported loss of this vessel has been confirmed by a letter from the surgeon of the ship, Mr H.J.Domville, to his wife, who resides at Stoke, near Devonport. His letter is dated Odessa, May 15, and states that "The Tiger" left Sebastopol with the Vesuvius, 6, paddle, Commander Popplewell, and Niger, 14, Commander Heath, on the 11th.

A dense for came on, which continued all night. About six on the morning of the 12th the ship struck ground, and when the fog cleared, we found we were about 150 yards from the beach, and about five miles to the south of Odessa. Every effort was made to get off, and the guns fired to call the attention of our consorts, but without effect. Some of our guns had been thrown overboard, and other moved to lighten the ship, so that when the batteries on shore opened their fire, one gun only could be fired, and that with little or no execution.

The captain and four others were struck down with wounds, and in ten minutes from the commencement of the firing the ship was in flames in two places. We struck our colours and hoisted Russian in token of surrender. We were obliged to leave the ship in great hurry, but permission was given to take what we wished on shore. Nothing could exceed the extreme kindness of our captors, and we are told to ask for all we want....

Saturday 3 June 1854
Tablet
Before night we were again under weigh, and early on Thursday morning we fell in with the fleet at our appointed rendezvous, thirty miles west of Sebastopol. It was a fine morning, and it was a glorious sight to see our noble ships moving stately on, under canvas, in double line of battle.

I here learnt that our party was to go on board the Agamemnon, flag ship of Sir Edmund Lyons, who was gong to part company with the fleet that very afternoon, with a French and English steam squadron under his orders, viz: - English - Agamemnon, Highflyer, Retribution, Sampson, Firebrand, and Niger. French - Charlemagna, Mogador and Vauhan.

Sir Edmund Lyons ordered the Highflyer, Firebrand, and Niger to cruise of Kertch Straits, and send send the Retribution soutwards. - -

The Highflyer, Firebrand, and Niger have just come in. They did not do much in their cruise, as the Niger, in chase of a ship that came out of Kertch, ran on shore off Cape Anakli; and Captain Moore, of the Highflyer, was consequently obliged to spend all the day getting her off. She is fortunately very little damaged. - - - continues - - -

Wednesday 7 June 1854
Sun (London)

(from Constantinople, May 25)

- - - The Niger arrived on the 23rd with a prize, and left this evening for Malta, to be docked, having been ashore for four hours off Kertch, and towed off by the Highflyer. - - Lieutenant-Colonel Pratt R.M., Lord Ashley, and eight clerks, R.N., have gone by the Niger to Malta en route to England. The clerks are for service in the Baltic fleet. - - -
Ships now lying at Constaninople: - The Magaera troop ship, Commander Johnston; the Niger, 14, Commander Heath; the Vesuvius,6, Commander Powell; Caradoc, Lieutenant Derriman; and Banshee, Lieutenant Reynolds.

Tuesday 13 June 1854
Saint James Chronicle

The Black Sea Prizes

Niger, 14, screw, Commander Heath, arrived at Malta, June 1, from the Black Sea, having left Constantinople on the 26th of My. On the 1st of June, also, the first of the Black Sea prizes arrived at Malta, two in number. The first, the Russian brig Elchina, No.11, under command of Mr James Dowling, second master of the Niger, laden with salt; the second, the Craff ni Kiti, laden with linseed, under command of Mr Jones, second master of the Retribution, steam-frigate.

Both these prizes were taken on the 19th of April, near Odessa, by the Retribution and Niger (English) and Descartes (French). After being condemned they will be sold at Malta. The Niger having received some damage from being on shore, she will be put into dock for repair. She had on board 15 Greek and Russian prisoners.

File 20150
Possibly Elizabeth C Greenwood [ne Barnardiston to AMC] 1854?
Date needs sorting
Saturday [?]

My dearest Mrs Marsh.
My husband [John Greenwood?], brother and Willy Parker have started this morning for London. En route to the Pyes[?] and Melford (dear old Melford) in order to pay the last sad tribute of respects to my dear uncles’ remains on Tuesday next at 11 o’clock [Admiral Sir Hyde Parker died 16 July 1854?].

They were removed from here yesterday afternoon and travelled all night, and through to Sudbury and are now resting till Tuesday in his own old home.

You know how sad is the day and the hour when all is gone… And the room deserted!

At the earnest wish of every one, I gave up my intention of following him to the grave but many things made it almost impracticable for me to do so. Except with great risk of health, for I am neither well, nor strong. This long and sad anxiety and my illness at my mother’s has told upon me and had I so willed it, this [morning?] my hand would not have let me start.

These Easterly winds too, affect my chest very much. So I gave in. But alas with the deepest regret, for I had quite determined to go.

I think of how many loved ones I have lost. How many links of the chain are broken since last I saw Eastbury! And in a few weeks it will be two years since I have worn black.

My dear Uncles’ loss is very very great to me. And cannot be filled and none can mourn him like me. So I have it all to myself and dwell inwardly on kindnesses and former happy days. I could have wished we could have spent a few more days together and then some things might have been different. [Which?] cause me now much regret and [sadness?].

He longed, he wished, to see me. He said he had something to tell me. And I am sure there was something on his mind. The last few hours, the last few words I gathered from him expressed it. Alas, alas. It was all too late.

After the [frich Edt?] of his arrival, when he would only have the newspapers read to him, he was too far gone to hold any conversation and I think now, hoped in as he had landed so comfortably, that he had yet days to spare. So I shall never know what he had to say. And he cannot rectify what he has done.

There seems a fatality, if it is not wicked to use the word. I have no clue whatever to guide me to what he had so earnestly expressed a wish to say. And this added to my sadness. He was just calm and patient whilst here. And suffered no pain, beyond the incessant restlessness attendant in his disease.

He wished to be moved every instant. And I think this restlessness worse than pain. He was carried [all.?] from place to place. He could not stay in bed or rest any where. He was propped up by dozens of pillows. He did not sleep. Nor did he scarcely swallow any nourishment after his [acsioul’b?] his constitution was strong almost to the last.

His last half hour was quick. And so died almost without a sigh. All was quiet and almost imperceptible. My poor dear Uncle! I read a little to him Friday morning, but I cannot say whether he was able to attend[?] he said his prayers nightly, regularly and I think had his own views on religious matters and did not like or wish for any interference [but view?] of a clergyman.

He sought no solace or aid from others in these matters. And after he came here, alas it was quite impossible to speak to him of receiving the Holy Communion, as I so longed to do. But no sign of penitence, no holy thought or aspiration is [lost?] in heaven and I trust he is now with a merciful Father. And at [least?] his love and confidence and trust in me never changed.

Some day I will tell you something which will shew how much he trusted. And how I will not let you hear from others.

How he was disposed of his property, or learn it by mere rumour. I grieve to say I wish I could tell you differently as far as my poor mother and brothers are concerned.

Willy Parker [Sir William Parker, 9th Baronet (1826–1891)? Married Sophia Mary Barnardiston] comes in to all the property, after it has been, I think, sometime in Trust to pay off the Mortgage of £40,000 upon it.

He comes into [personals?] everything. I am left £4,500 and an annuity of £300 a year in Melford, should I survive [Martin?].

The house in Onslow Square was mine so of course is not mentioned in the will. To my brothers, only £1,000, each is left. To my mother £100 and his carriage and horses.

Oh dear, Mrs Marsh, I cannot tell you, my [sorrow?] and distress at this. To you I will say, and I can do it, how I grieved at his not having done rightly to my poor brothers, and I cannot bear that he should be blamed as to it. For there seems [not two?] opinions in the subject.

He was the only person my brothers had to look to. And most naturally and after all that had been promised and other circumstances attendant in some of the unhappy affairs of our family, they cannot but be terribly disappointed.

That the land would go was expected, but not that every thing also should, and they have only these trifling legacies! I cannot understand it and I grieve much for my poor mother, for it is a sad termination to a long life of [sorrows?] of money borne so patiently as she has done.

I know you will be sorry. This is all I know of the bulk of the Will. Mention it not. Please, unless obliged. There are many things I could tell you. But I have not the heart to write them, and my headaches badly.

My brothers will bear up well, but I feel deeply for them and my mother. Let dear Louisa know of this letter and thank her for me for hers. I will write to her later. I write it in haste, as I want you much to get it before Tuesday.

God bless you, ever yours with [me as?] kindest love, and believe me, always my dear Mrs – your very affectionate

L AG [LEG?] Louisa Elizabeth Barnardiston [1828-1881+] – married John Greenwood?

Tuesday 8 August 1854
Morning Herald (London)

The Niger, 15, screw, Commander Heath, having made good her defects, left for the Black Sea on the 23rd, having the Arthur the Great, transport No.28, in tow, laden with stores.

26th August 1854

Henry Raikes, Clerk Master of Arts, Vicar-General and Principal of the Right Reverend Father in God, Official Principal of the Right Reverend Father in God, John, (obscured) permission, Lord Bishop of CHESTER, lawfully authorised to our well-beloved in Christ, The Right Reverend Father in God (Comoss?) by divine (peru?) from Lord Bishop of St.David his Vicar General Surrogate or other competent Judge, Greeting,

Whereas Elizabeth Caldwell, late of Nantwich in the County of Chester, Spinster, deceased having, whilst living, and at the time of her Death, Good, Chattels, or Credits, in the said Diocese of Chester, lately died Intestate: And whereas Anne Marsh, widow, the niece and one of the next of kin of the said deceased now resides in your Jurisdiction, and, by reason thereof, cannot without great Expense come to our Consistory Court of Chester:

Therefore We did decree a Requisition to issue forth for the Purposes hereinafter mentioned, in Manner and Form following, desiring your Assistance therein, (Justice so requiring): We therefore, in the aid of the Law, do request you jointly and severally to swear the said Anne Marsh to the truth of the annexed Affidavit and faithfully to administer the Goods, Chattels, and Credits of the said Deceased, left unadministered by Hannah Elizabeth Roscoe since deceased

and to make a true and perfect Inventory of all and singular the said Goods, Chattels, and Credits of the said Deceased,

and to render a just and true Account thereof, and to exhibit the same into the Registry of our said Consistory Court,

and also to take and see the Bond (hereunto annexed) duly executed by the said Anne Marsh with sufficient Sureties,and further to do in the Premises as shall be needful, requesting that (such Oath being administered,

and the said Bond executed as aforesaid) you duly transmit to us the said Bond and the whole Proceedings thereon, immediately after the Execution thereof, together with these Presents, so that we may administer Justice on the Premises, for which you shall receive the like Favor from us, if at any Time required.

Given at CHESTER, the Twenty Sixth Day of August in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight-hundred and fifty four. (26 Aug 1854)

Extracted by Alfred Ayrton, Proctor, Chester.

(signed) N. Raikes Registrar.

Administered, dated 30th Oct 1854

The Form of the Oath to the Administratrice laying her Hand on the Bible or New Testament.

Your Oath is, That the above named Elizabeth Caldwell died on the tenth day of January 1842, a Spinster, without parent, Brother or Sister living at her death, one of the next of kin of the said deceased

and that you will truly administer her Goods, Chattels, and Credits, left unadministered by Hannah Eliza Roscoe deceased by paying her Debts, as far as the same will thereto extend, and the Law charge you;

and that you will make a true and perfect Inventor of all the said Goods, Chattels, and Credits, and exhibit the same into the Registry of the Consistory Court of Chester, at the Time assigned you by the said Court, and render a just Account of your Administration when lawfully required;

and that the whole Goods, Chattels, and Credits of the said Deceased within the Diocese of Chester, left unadministered as aforesaid, do not amount to the sum of four hundred and fifty Pounds, and that the Contents of the annexed Affidavit to which you have set and subscribed your name were and are true (So help you God)

Anne Marsh of Eastbury in the County of (Hertfordshire?) resided at Tenby in the County of Pembroke, Widow.

William Hayward (Cox, Cole?) a Surrogate acting in and for the Diocese of St.Davids.

Monday 11 September 1854
Sun (London)

(From H.M.S. Fury, at sea, Aug 25, 1854) - We have communicated with Niger, 15, screw, Commander Heath, and the Vesuvius, 6, paddle, off the Sulina mouth of the Danube. They had no news. We also fell in with the Retribution, en route to Odessa, to receive remainder of Tiger's crew.

Diary of Mary Heath - at Malta - continues - - - -

Sunday 2 October 1854 - Malta
I went to dine with the (Stewarts?) - found the Admiral and all his family in a heap of letters and despatches - the mail just having come in from the East - such excitement - a battle fought - at the river Almo in the Crimea - 99 of our officers killed and wounded - and 1800 men ditto. French in less proportion - 33 - 95 - 23rd Regiments most exposed and suffered the greatest loss - The Russian's were driven back from their 1st lines and 13 guns taken.

The Imperial Guard fought well - but when they found themselves giving away before the English bayonets they set up a yell of despair and surprise - and fled - 2 of our men, 1 officers and 1 private were killed in the most cowardly manner by the Russian guardsmen - the officer saw a poor wretch dying on the ground and imploring a drop of water, the English officer stooped down to give him some brandy water from his own canteen - and going forward - the guard shot him in the back - but was torn to pieces by the infuriated English - the same thing happened to the private

The French were delighted with our soldiers - and were perfectly wild with enthusiasm for us - we all wait impatiently for more details and what is to be done next - my husband (engaged?) in leading(?) troops - Captain and Mrs.Chamberlain came to dine and hear news - I thought the Admiral and he would have come to blows about the authenticity of this respective news - the Admiral's coming from Admiral Boxer at Constantinople - Captain Chamberlain's from various (invalided?) officers from Varna who had all spoken to wounded men from the battle.

Everyone expects that Sabastopol is ours - one begins to taste the horrors of war when one hears of the weeping, anxious soldiers wives gathered round the Post Office to hear about their husbands.

Monday 2 October 1854
Globe

The Crimea - Minor Incidents of the Landing

Captains Dacres and King, of the Sanspariel and Leander, and Commanders Heath and Hillyar, of the Niger and Agamemnon, had the direction of the landing. Everything was done from the orders received from the Agamemnon, which directed the whole disembarkation.

Saturday 7 October 1854
Bells Weekly Messenger

- - -we must content ourselves with extracting a few passages from the letters of the "Special" Correspondent of the Morning Herald, which embrace very point of interest:- Sail and Arrival of the Expedition at the Crimea. - -

At daybreak this morning we were off the mouth of the Danube, and about 15 miles from Sulina, the tall light-house of which is the only conspicuous object which remains since the Spitfire destroyed the town. Cruising off the flat, marshy shore, the very look of which spoke plague and pestilence, was her Majesty's steamer Niger, whose heavy guns taught the Russian batteries such a bitter lesson when the Tiger was lost of Odessa. She answered our signals, and ran alongside, when Captain Heath learnt to his great satisfaction the order from the Admiral, which removed him from his lonely and unwholesome station, and gave the gallant Nigers an opportunity of playing a conspicuous part in the coming attack on Sebastopol.

File PB13104
Letter to from
Malta

23rd October [1854]

I hope you will not mind hearing so soon again from me, my dear Uncle Caldwell, but I thought you would be glad to hear from head-quarters, of the birth of Marys little boy, which took place on the 18th. [Arthur Heath 1854-1943] He is a very fine little fellow, everybody says and Fanny [Frances Mary Crofton], nee Marsh] declares he will be a very pretty baby which both Mary and I think that he is already.

I am glad to say that both mother and child are going on perfectly well.

And we have delightful weather for her recovery. Today there is a bright sun, brisk north wind and glass at 71. But two days ago the Seroc blew, which is very oppressive. The sky is misty and the glass was above 78.

Richard [Major General Richard H. Crofton] is much better again, I am glad to say. Fanny is pretty well, and their children are the admiration and envy of all the English parents in Valetta from their good looks and good health.

Duke [Crofton, aged 4] has won his first battle over the Governors grandson, a boy much older than himself, who declared that he had some private intelligence about Sebastopol which he could not tell either Amy [Amelia Isaac, nee Crofton, aged 5] or Duke who then forced him to take refuge behind his nurses petticoats.

Was not Colonel [Hayjarth?] of the Scots Militia Guards the son your old friend? He is now lying dangerously wounded at the Naval Hospital here, where he has most splendid quarters and told Richard who went to call upon him, that everybody was excessively kind to him. A bullet broke his leg at the battle of Alma, and when he was down a Russian fired at him bout portent. The bullet struck his bearskin cap and passed down his cheek leaving a furrow, then struck his epaulette which was thus the means of saving his life. Took off the top of his shoulder and tore through the upper arm.

He came here in the Fury, but they scarcely thought he would have reached Malta alive, he lost so much blood from his arm. But his life, I believe, is safe now. Though the medical men still only hope to save his leg.

Mr Stewart, the Admirals son, told me he was in such a beautiful state mind, perfectly resigned to die if such were Gods pleasure. Yet most ardently desiring to fight another campaign.

The sick and wounded officers are beginning to pass through here now. We saw one on Saturday, Captain Hammond of the Rifles whom we knew when he was quartered here. He had been very ill of fever and though you could see the traces of illness in the languor of his eyes, yet it was quite astonishing to how much larger and apparently a more powerful man he had grown. His hardships cannot be altogether bad, I concluded.

Letter continues. ?

Leopold Heath's letter list

41 - 13 November 1854 - Appointed Captain

Wednesday 22 November 1854
Morning Herald (London)

Naval Promotions for the engagement with the Sebastopol Battery
The Following official announcement of promotions of officers engaged on the 17th ult. in the attack of the Sebastopol batteries will be read with the greatest interest.

The Lords of the Admiralty in order to mark their approval of the gallant conduct displayed in the engagement of the fleet on the 17th of October with the Russian batteries at Sebastopol and of the skill and seamen like qualities shown on that occasion have made the following promotions dated of the 13th inst. - - -

But of the part of the sloops engaged, Commander Leopold Heath, (1847) of the Niger, 15, is the senior; and the others next to him are Commander Spratt (1849) of the little Spitfire,paddle; Commander Powell (1851), of the Vesuvius, 6, paddle. Allowing, however, that the conduct of the seniors was satisfactory, the following will be the list of commanders promoted for the engagement, to be captains:-
Commander Randolph (1846), Rodney 90, Commander Rogers (1847), Albion, 90, Commander Kynaston (1852), Spiteful, 6, paddle, Commander J.J.B.E. Frere (1846) , Bellerophon, 78. Commander LG Heath (1847) Niger, 15, screw

Leopold Heath's letter list

42 - 23 November 1854 - Dundas to Leopold - Appointing as Post Captain, H.M.S.Sanspareil - (very difficult to read - ed)

(23 November 1854 (Bulum?)
My dear Captain Heath,
I have nominated you Captain of the Port and advise you to have the Provost Marshall send on all occur there you are - - muntint team or his.

By - - and (Senior?) officer in your duty as Captain of the port, and I know you will show the Eng difference and respect. but that and our - - - J Paint knowledge as ready tocome at - as per ear.
Conl Powell will probably - - -as his ship seems - -- He - - -at the people of waiting off - - -
Captain Drummond will be - - and I enclose a note for him, -- will for him.

In 32 W Gun - 36 of them (4 - - - _) - - - Ephusos takes the powder - should - -be clear out of the Hbuon and to send to them - - after the guns are out I

In large ships will go to the Bosphorus as soon as I get the guns out of his ship. - (Trafalgar?) - and I go to the

Mary Heath's letter book

1854 - Sheria (?), Malta
Darling Adeline,
I must write, and tell you, now I am up and well, how I feel with you, in the delight of having a sweet, lovely little son to love and admire, and think nobody ever had such a son, in the world, as my little Arthur, or Raymond.

Leopold Heath's letter list

43 - 6 December 1854 - Lord Raglan to Leopold - Congratulations on Promotion

Mary Heath's letter book

December 1854, Malta
My dearest Mamma,

Leo is promoted you know, but I have not heard of him for a month, not even of how he approves of having a little son and heir (Arthur, the eldest M.E.H.) so I do not know his plans. It is such a satisfaction that he has got his 3 stripes on his coat sleeve. Now there is nothing more to think about for him! He has got all he can possibly and if appointed to the Sanspareil, it will be a fine thing.

I went with nurse and Louisa the maid to meet Admiral Stewart at the door. "Arthur," as I wish to call him, were it not for the "thur" and "th" Arthur Heath, behaved very well, sleeping discretly till he felt the cross on his forehead (Arthur's baptism M.E.H.) when he shrieked! which everyone said was a very very lucky sign, and I blushed for my son.

It was quiet enough, only a few jokes from the Admiral. I could not help shedding a few quiet tears, when I walked down the aisle with little Amy (Crofton - Jones now, M.E.H.) in my hand and considered that he who ought most of right to have been there and who besides me was the only interested one, was not, but such is my crook!
There only been 4 months and a fortnight with Leo since I was married to him!!
Posy dear, in answer to your question "of what sort of a mother I make" I tell you that I really and truly think my boy is quite unlike any other, in beauty and intelligence - and feel that it is so certainly the fact that I cannot think of calling myself conceited - He is such a treasure to me, I don't know what I should do without him now he is beginning to laugh so prettily when he is lying at ease on my knee and I talking and singing nonsense to him.

The other evening he caught sight of the moon for the first time and began staring at it with all the eyes like Babies do, don't you know? and looked such a darling.
I am very fortunate in my good hostess - who is used to everything. She takes great care of me and Baby, whom I hear her called "Purty dear."

I am very jealous of Mamma telling all our sons to imitate Bertrand Buxton - Duke Crofton is Duke, and no-one like him, and Arthur Heath will be Arthur and himself!!
Went to a party at Mrs.Basil Hall's, very stiff, regular London party. I met Major Nasmyth there of (Tilistria?), whom I had met before at Constantinople. He told me a great deal. He says the most distressing thing of the whole campaign (Crimean War) was the way in which officers and men fell out of rank, in the forced march to Balaclava - how dreadful it was to leave their comrades behind. I think all who come down speak very dispairingly of the whole affair. He said we should get on better if the French were away in some other part.

Hospital gangrene has broken out - is it not dreadful, he said the whole of Sebastopol was undermined, and that if there was an assault, the bloodshed would be awful, for French and English are mad against the Russians.

Friday 15 December 1854
Morning Herald (London)

The Disposition of the Fleet - - -
Sanspareil, 71, screw, Captain Heath, was at Balaklava.

Friday 15 December 1854
Promotions and Appointment in the Black Sea

Commander Leopold Heath, of the Niger, 12, screw, to be acting captain of Sanspareil, 71, screw, vice S.G.Dacres, invalided. This officer's promotion we believe has been anticipated.
Lieut. Hore of the Beagle, to be acting commander of the Niger, vice Heath, to the Sanspareil.

File PB110017
AMC to Stamford.
23rd November 1854.

My dear Stamford.

I think you will like to see the Judge’s letter. (the Judge is Mr Douglas Neath, County Court Judge only, but as Charles Crompton I observe, always give him the title of “The Judge,” it is proper courtesy I suppose to do it.)

Though Leopold’s promotion appears by this note not to be quite absolutely certain, yet I think there seems such good reason not to question it, that it will give you pleasure to have the earliest intelligence.

Please let me have Douglas’s note back. I keep such things in my archives. So if the good news be true, nothing if he live can now prevent him being an Admiral.

And the little girl you took such interest in, thinking her a little overlooked, bids fair for the top of the tree. There is one of Leopold’s circular journal letters forwarded to us this morning. He was commanding (Oct 3rd?) a body of marines defending the works at the back of Balaclava. Perilous work, with 30,000 Russians hard by.

Their outposts only between 2 and 3 thousand yards off. They (the English, 6,000 strong only) were industriously fortifying their position and before the letter concludes he says, their ditch is so deep that they may now defy a night attack which was the principal danger. The French, he says, have asked to be entrusted with the attack upon Sabastapol, saying they understand such work better than the English.
Continues…?

Saturday 2 December 1854
Halifax Courier

Captain Eden, of the London, has been invalided; he will be succeeded by Captain L.Jones, whose place in the Sampson is to be taken by Captain Brock, the present Governor of Eupatoria. Captain Dacres, of the Sanspareil, also returns to England through ill health, Hon. Captain Drummond exchanges Retribution for Sanspareil, and Commander Heath, of the Niger, is expected to obtain the acting-invaliding vacany in Retribution. Inflexible has returned from off Odessa, and Valorous is gone to Sinope for forage.

1 December 1854 (from Sat. 23 Dec. 18540

Now we have some kind of regularity in the harbour. Captain Heath, of the Sanspareil, is acting as captain of the port, and Commander Powell is active in the discharge of his new duties as harbour-master; but the catastrophe of November 14 has not been atoned for, and there is yet considerable want of method in the regulations of the port. Cholera, which broke out on the night of the 28th of November, continues its ravages, and we cannot estimate the number of deaths from it and its abettors in the destruction of life lower than 60 per diem.

Tuesday 12 December 1854
London Evening Standard

Captain Dacres, of the Sanspareil, 71, screw, has invalided. Captain Heath, of the Niger, 12, screw, has been appointed to the Sanspareil, on promotion. Captain Hore has been appointed on promotion from the Arrow, screw, dispatch-boat, to the command of the Niger.

Tuesday 12 December 1854
Shipping and Mercantile Gazette

During the last few days several changes have taken place in the command of some of the vessels. Captain Dacres, of the Sanspareil, is invalided, and Captain Heath of the Niger, took his place ad interim. The command of the Niger was given to Lieut. Hore, commander of the Beagle, and to this latter Mr Hewitt, acting mate, was appointed.

Thursday 14 December 1854
Morning Post

We are to have some changes to the navy. Captain Eden, of the London, has invalided, and Captain Jones, of the Sampson, will succeed Captain Eden - the command of the Sampson falling to Captain Brock, who will forthwith take the vessel homewards. Captain Heath, just promoted, is now captain of the Sanspareil, and Commander Hore succeeds to Captain Heath in the Niger.

Monday 18 December 1854
Evening Mail

- -- Still, anything was better than the confusion and utter disorder of the harbour of Balaklava, and the ships lay outside till required for unloading. Captain Heath, of the Sanspareil, is acting as captain of the port, and Commander Powell is active in the discharge of his new duties as harbour-master; but the catastrophe of November 14 has not been atoned for, and there is yet considerable want of method in the regulations of the port.

Tuesday 18 December 1854 ?
Morning Chronicle
- - -Captain Drummond, of the Retribution, preferring to retain his own ship, Commander Heath is acting-captain of Sanspareil, and Lieutenant Hore, of the Beagle, gun-boat, is appointed acting-commander of the Niger.

Saturday 23 December 1854
Cheshire Observer

- - - The want of some competent and responsible supervision of the harbour of Balaklava is strongly commented upon in the Times correspondent's dispatches. Although he states, in one of his latest communications, that Captain Heath, of the Sanspareil, and been appointed captain of the port, and Commander Powell, harbour-master,yet he ascribes a large portion of the recent loass and disaster to the want of efficient regulations, at an earlier period, similar to those established at Kamiesh Bay, where the vessels are moored in regular lines, according to the nature of their cargo, and to the number of their register, instead of, as at Balaklava, being packed without order or arrangement, with fouled anchors, cables crossing and re-crossing each other, and hawsers made fast in every direction.

Saturday 30 December 1854
Halifax Courier

The blank promotions will not be filled up until the returns of those present are obtained from all the ships; but there is little doubt of the commanders and lieutenants promoted being Commanders Heath, Sanspareil; and Frere, Bellerophon, to be captains; and Lieutenants Thorpe, Tribune; Saulez, Belleropho; Rolland, Agamemnon; and Johnstone of Spitfire, to be commanders.

1855

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