Michael D.Heath-Caldwell M.Arch.

1809

Diaries and Letters of:-

Location: William Salt Library, Stafford (M167)

Diary of James Caldwell begins on 1 January 1809 and ends on 3 September 1811

The pages are not numbered 

[For convenience I have numbered them here pages 1-98 = Catalogue of books & diary]

The transcript below is by Andrew Dobraszczyc & members of Letters & Diaries Class, Keele University 

DIARY

Outer front cover

Inside cover: 

Drawing in pencil of a stone bridge; trees & shrubs behind

[Page 1]

September & October 1808

Engagements

Tuesday Sep: 20.  Mr Slater at Linley Wood

21 & 22. 23.  Manchester

Gaters Bankley[?] 28.  Mayor of Newcastle &c Sunday 2.  ----? Mayer

At Newcastle Tuesday 4 Select Committee17 & 18Genl Committee &c

Genl Assembly at Stone

29 Set: Edward Jones 22.10 Williams

£9 Release Legacies J Caldwells wife2.  If necessary to four[?] late

any Crompton Duffield & J Caldwell Manchester.  Interest to Scotland [This James Caldwell of Manchester seems to have been a cousin?]

[All above crossed out]

Below:

Drawing in pencil of the branch of a tree

[Pages 2 & 3] [Blank] 

[Page 4]

Catalogue of Books at Linley Wood April 1806

Including those bought from the library of the late Mr Bentley

Dictionaries & Grammars 

Johnson's Dictionary2 Vols Qto. 1785

Ainsworth's Latin Dictionary2 Vols Qto. 1783

Vocabolario Degli Academici Della Crusca3 Vols Fo. 1691

Chamband's Dictionaire Francois Anglais Qto. 1778

Steven's Spanish & English Dictionary Qto. 1726

Scapulae LexiconFo.

Schreuelius DoQto.

Le Grand Dictionaire de L'Academie Francoise Fo. 1695

Priestley's Theory of Languages Do. 1762

Rags Collection of English Words Do.

Wailly. Principes de la langue francoise Do. 1777

Regissard. Nouvelle Methode pour apprendre

les langues francoise & AngloiseDo. 1736

Priestleys English Grammar1768

Comenii

[Pages 5 & 6] [Blank]

[Page 7]

Introductions, General Learning and Criticisms

Shaws Bacon 3b 4to. 1733

Bacons Advancement of Learnin Fo. 1674

Descartes Discours de la Methode 12o. 1724

Gassende, Philosophie par Bernier12o. 1684

Lami.  Elemens des Sciences12o. 1706

Bielfields Erudition complete12o. 1768

Nouvelle Encyclopedie portative26 12o. 1766

Bibliotheque Choisie27 Tomes 12o. 1712

Bibliotheque ancienne20 12o.

Monthly Review from 1749 to 1806 2 vols wanting, 50 & 51

Gentlemans Magazine from1764 to 1770

[Page 8]

Education, Speaking Reading & Writing

Quintilien, de l'Institution de l'Oraleur par Gedoyn4to. 1718

Locke on Education

Priestley on Education

Barron on Education

Edgeworth on Education

Rousseau Camile

[Page 9]

[Continued from bottom of next page; see below]

[Page 10]

Journal

January 1809

Sunday 1^st January 1809

At home.  Unwell, but service as usual.

Monday 2^nd January 1809

Do

Diary of Mary Caldwell - age 19

2nd January 1809,  [page B127]
Mamma, Aunt Eliza and Anne went to the Assembly. Mrs Jos Wedgwood and Mr R Bent managers.

Diary of James Caldwell - age 48

Tuesday 3 January 1809

At Newcastle.  Macclesfield Brewery & various other matters

Wednesday 4 January 1809

At Trentham making call on Lord Stafford & Lord Gower previous to their leaving the Country.  Lady Stafford also came in knowing That I was there.* Lord S of opinion that the Picture in the possession of*

[Note on previous page 9]

* On making this call and desiring the Servant (who knew me to enquire whether Lord Stafford was at home, he said it was not necessary to do.  His Lordship was at home.   Leaving me to infer that his Lordship was not to be denied to me

[Another note in margin]

* Mr William Hardman said to be by Leonardo da Vinci & which had been sent for his Lordships inspection, was not an original.  The subject is the Benediction of St John.  His Lordship in speaking of it used the term "bad"

Thursday 5 January 1809

At home.  Extremely cold and inclement day.  Wind & Snow.  Prevented going to Macclesfield as I had settled to do

Friday 6 January 1809

Do.  Again very unwell.  Eliza & Mary set off to Eton.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - age 19

6th January 1809, Friday
Mamma, Emma and I set out to Eton (now Bishop Eton, Liverpool). Slept at Warrington.

Diary of James Caldwell

Saturday 7 January 1809

Do Do

Mary Caldwell at Peter Crompton's Eton House, Liverpool

7th January 1809, Saturday
Got to Eton to dinner

 Diary of James Caldwell at Linley Wood

Sunday 8 January 1809

W Bent with Draft of Letter to Mr Barrow[?] relative to the purchase of his share in the Newcastle Brewery: which I assisted him in revising.  Considering Mr B now is under the influence of other Persons, the Letter was not amiss. On the subject of the terms particularly the paym[en]t of the purchase Money I discovered that all this was more matter of Agreement between the Individuals, depending always on the respective feelings & convenience.  Also perusing & considering papers &c relative to Macclesfield Brewery, to which place I propose going on Tuesday.

Diary of Mary Caldwel at Peter Cromptons, Eton House, Liverpool with her mother

8th January 1809, Sunday
Saw Mr Brandreth. Miss Denison and Thomas Rawson to tea and supper. 

Diary of James Caldwell

Monday 9 January 1809

At Burslem in consequence of a Letter received from Mr Wood & a Meeting of the Churchwardens  &c on the subject of rating Coal Mines to the Poor.  Agreed that the Appeal sh[oul]d be respited to the Easter Sessions in order to afford an opportunity for an amicable arrangement & a fresh Survey.

Letter from James Caldwell to Mrs Caldwell - 1809

Mrs Caldwell

Dr Cromptons

Eton House nr

Liverpool

Linley Wood, 9^th January 1809

I know how it is, my beloved Eliza, but somehow or other, you always continue to “better expectation,” and avail yourself of every occasion that offers to strengthen your claims to my highest approbation and esteem, no less than my tenderest and most grateful affection.

Most joyfully and thankfully did I receive your kind and early communication; which, from the account it brought me of yourself and your dear and interesting companion, relieved me from one anxiety at least, and seemed to dart like a ray of light and comfort across the gloom that has lately hung about me. It will, I know, make you happy to hear that I am today most materially better; and feel, almost like another Being, to what I have done for some time past.

The pain in my side has in a great measure left me, indeed, I felt a sensible and almost immediate alteration, when the change in the weather took place, at what is become with us quite mild and temperate. I have been today at Burslem in consequence of a letter from Mr. Wood, and a question of considerable importance that has arisen namely the Rating of Coalmines and the Poor; and I propose setting off in the morning to Macclesfield, for which I assure you that I feel fully equal though the occasion is certainly not a pleasant one. However, I will try to probe things to the bottom, and then “let the galled Jade wince.” Mr Bent dined here yesterday.

We had a very pleasant and [unresroed?] discussion of the subject of his purchasing Mr B’s (Bent) share in the Newcastle Brewery, and which, though the parties are at present at arms length, will I think be finally effected. I am more and more convinced of the propriety of Mr Bents taking it, and of my having nothing to do with it.

He spoke with great hope and confidence of the Liverpool Undertaking; and for myself, I need not say to you, that I scarcely know anything that will afford me more real joy and satisfaction than to find this speculation, on which you well know how much I have bestowed my best and most anxious consideration and attention, eventually was [wearing?] the views and expectations of our dear and valued friends at Eton.

You may be assured, at least, that I will continue, as I have hitherto done, to contribute every effort in my power, towards its final and complete success. Little crossings and jostlings will in some shape or other, always attend important business, particularly amongst men of ardent mind and intent pursuit; but the best way, at least, as I have always found, and according to which, I believe that I have almost invariably acted, is to disregard trifles; sometimes not to see, and sometimes not to hear but never to permit ‘Mole Hills’ to become Mountains.

These dear and interesting children are most assiduous in using every effort to fill the void occasioned by their mother’s absence; and by this sweet and unceasing attentions draw my best and wisest thoughts to the contemplation of that solid fabric in our domestic bliss and happiness, which whilst it is yielded to us, makes me almost blush to think that I can permit any other circumstance to disturb or weaken the enjoyment of. But you, my ever dear and valued wife, will never fail to make every indulgent allowance, for my too apprehensive imagination, and over harassed mind.

But to have done with all this. I fear, that anxious and impatient as I shall be to hear from you again, this cannot be, till on my return from Macclesfield the earliest time of which will be Thursday. It would afford me extraordinary pleasure to join you atEton; but on Saturday I must go to Hanley to inspect the arms of the volunteers &c. And by a letter which I have received from Mr Breck, there seems to be such a succession of meetings on the Tax, Militia &c as coupled with my Navigation engagements will not leave a sufficient interval for the purpose.

As what I know will be most interesting and important to you, I repeat and truly assure you, that I am at this moment better than you will perhaps believe; and therefore intreat you that you will not think of me in any arrangement that you may judge it best to make either on our dear Mary’s account or otherwise, as to your stay at Eton.

When I am writing to you, my pen, which certainly is not in general a ready one, runs so fast, that it often brings me to the end of my paper, before I have attend half the dictates of my heart. But what pen can write, or language express what I feel towards you? No, my Eliza, this can be known only by the sympathy of our own minds. All here are well and join in every kind and affectionate remembrance. Remembrance to the family.

Farewell my dear loved and valued Eliza and think of me as I ever have been and whilst life continues I ever shall be your most tenderly affectionate and grateful husband,

James Caldwell

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 10 January 1809

Set off to Macclesfield, Arrived there in the Afternoon & long Conversation with Mr Handley in the Evening.

Wednesday 11 January 1809

Closely engaged all day in examining & settling Books drawing out State of the Concern &c

Diary of Mary Caldwell, at Peter Crompton's Eton House, Liverpool with her mother.

11th January 1809,
Went to Liverpool. Called on the Baileys, Curries and Wallaces. How valuable is a friendly accost, particularly when your visit is short since it sets you immediately at ease and prevents a moment being lost. Saw the Brewery and for a few minutes Mr N Roscoe. How much is expressed and felt by the touch of the hand.

Diary of James Caldwell

Thursday 12 January 1809

Do Do Morning but returned home to dinner. 

Diary of Mary Caldwell at Peter Cromptons, Eton House, Liverpool with her mother.

12th January 1809, Thursday
Called at Allerton, Mr Roscoes

Diary of James Caldwell

Friday 13 January 1809

At home fatigued & unwell.  

Q If the great desideratum in brewing is not in the attenuating to prevent the loss of spirit in the fermentation or in other words occasioned[?] & suffering in the fermentation necessary to attenuate the liquor so as to make it agreeable to the palate. 

[On previous page 9]

*great importance of the most exact & delicate characteristics & Q whether Earthen ware might not be used with great advantage instead of wood.  E.g. By lining the Gyle Tun with Earthen ware or Having Brick ones constructed so lined

In the Gyle Tun there is a kind of impure Matter generated which of the smallest quantity now left deposited in the Wood wd infect the whole.  W B compared its virulence to that of the small Pox.  Hence the*

Diary of Mary Caldwell at Peter Cromptons, Eton House, Liverpool, with her mother.

13th January 1809, Friday
Mr W. Rathbone called.

Diary of James Caldwell

 Saturday 14 January 1809

At Hanley inspecting with Mr Kinnersly the men[?] of the Volunteers.  Dined at W Bents on my Return.  Macclesfield Concerns &c &c

Diary of Mary Caldwell, at Eton House, Liverpool, on holiday with her mother.

14th January 1809, Saturday
A little dance. Colonel Henry and Emma's birthday. Mr James Roscoe, Taylor, Denison, Thomas Mawson. Miss Rorls, Jane Lawrence &c.

Oh When my friend and I  [page B128]
In some thick wood have wandered heedless on, 
hid from the vulgar eye; and sat us down 
upon the sloping cowslip covered bank, 
where the fare limpid stream has slid along
in grateful arrows [errors?] thro' the underwood
sweet murmuring, me thought, and shrill tongued thesso
mended his song of love; the sooty Blackbird
mellow'd his pipe; and softened every note,
the eglantine smell'd sweeter, and the rose
assum'd a dye more deep, whilst every flower
died with its fellow plant in luxury
Of dress. O! then the longest summer day
Seem'd too, too much in haste: till the full heart
Had not imparted half: t'was happiness
Too exquisite to last. Of joys departed
Not to return, how sinful the remembrance.
Blairs Grave.

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 15 January 1809

At home Service as usual.  Read a good deal to day principally Boswells Life of Johnson.  A Book which notwithstanding the vanity of the Author, contains much valuable instructive & arousing[? Matter.  In passages on Johnson "morbid Melancholy" int----ed[?] so much.  It is indeed a strange affection, or rather disorder of the Imagination.  But of its compatibility with the most perfect and sound possession & question of Reason & Judgement, I think there is no doubt.  Those only who have really experienced this Malady can know how to compassionate[?] & make allowance for it.  What indeed can be worse than to be subject to and undergo actual sufferance, proportioned to the quickness and force of the Imagination? 

For those afflicted with it I verily believe suffer more from the apprehension than they would do from the real Endurance.  The cause I have often thought to be this, in the actual endeavour, the extent, the length and breadth of it, if I may so say of the Evil is known, and the suffering from it is also in some reason divided by external circumstances; but in the apprehension the whole power of sensation seems to be drawn as it were to a single point, & with an intenseness, which renders all other objects uninteresting and incapable of attracting the smallest notice or Consideration.  It is not dreadful to reflect that Johnson though possessing that intellectual pre-eminence which he considered the highest superiority should yet declare, that he never passed that week in his life which he would wish to respect, were an angel to make the proposal to him.

Diary of Mary Caldwell at Peter Cromptons, Eton House, Liverpool on holiday with her mother

15th January 1809, Sunday
Mr A Yates and Mr John Slater and Mr Denison dined.

Diary of James Caldwell

Monday 16 January 1809

At home.  Engaged giving various directions on the Farm which owing to indisposition & the great Engagement of my thoughts on other matters had been almost unattended to by me.  Alcock.  Weather very severe.

Diary of Mary Caldwell, on holiday at Peter Crompton's, Eton house, just outside Liverpool at the stage.

16th January 1809, Monday
Mrs, Miss Crompton and Mamma went to Liverpool

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 17 January 1809

Do.  Engaged again on the Farm notwithstanding the severity of the weather.  In the tranquil but useful pursuit of Agriculture & a Country life, reading, reflection, and the society of that dear good and amiable family with which I has pleased God to bless me, I shall now steadily seek, and cannot fail to find that ease and satisfaction of Mind, without which all earthly Good is vain.  Instead of looking back upon the past with unavailing and therefore weak regret, let me

[Page 12]

1809

endeavour so to act, so as, that the future may compensate for it.  In exertion for the service of others, I hope that I have never been deficient.  I wish dear bought Experience did not at 50 years of age teach me that I should have one better as well as more easily, if I had paid more consideration to myself.

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday with her mother at Peter Crompton's Eton House, nr Liverpool

17th January 1809, Tuesday
Dr Brandreth, Mr Crompton, Allen, Wharton, George and Lucy came. 

Diary of James Caldwell

Wednesday 18 January 1809

At home.  Engaged again on the farm, reading &c &c

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday with her mother at Peter Crompton's, Eton House, nr Liverpool

18th January 1809, Wednesday
Mr R Rathbone called. Miss Yates and Mr Denison tea and supped and stayed all night.

Diary of James Caldwell

Thursday 19 January 1809

Eliza & our two dear Girls Mary & Emma returned from Eton & I had the great satisfaction to find that Dr Brandreth entertained a favourable opinion of our dear Mary's Case.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - returned from Liverpool

19th January 1809, Thursday
Came home.

Diary of James Caldwell

Friday 20 January 1809

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

Saturday 21 January 1809

At Trentham Inn early attending hearing Appeals assessed Taxes.  Sir John Chetwode Mr Steadman & Self.  Long & fatiguing day but returned very late to dinner.  I this day entered the 51st year of my Age.  It led to many and serious Recollections of the past as well as Resolutions for the future as I passed along, and by which I can only hope that I may duly profit.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

21st January 1809, Saturday
Papa's birthday.
A [time?] sports are not to be considered idleness in young people, the listless torpor of closing nothing alone deserves that name.
Lord Chesterfield.

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 22 January 1809

At home Service as usual.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

22nd January 1809, Sunday
Qand on tonne dans son Coeur toutes les preferences et que rien n'est en compaiaison, de quoi pone a tou donner de la jalousie a la jalousie meme.
Lettres de Madame Sevignee.

The man who studies the military art, for any other purpose than that of saving lives is unworthy of the name of man; This is a profession destined to protect in peace on fellow citizens a profession which substituting skill and experience in the place of courage, spares the needless effusion of blood. For were there no established armies, were the inhabitants of a country to aim upon the [eruption, assumption?] of an enemy every loss would then be the event of sheer fighting; and those who made the most slaughter would be victors.

How under the present system of organized troops, a single maneuver, ably conceived and promptly executed frequently produces the bloodless conquest of whole battalions. When the subject is thus contemplated I am astonished at the odium which our profession incurs from many enlightened classes of society. If they believe that there would be no wars, if there were no disciplined soldiers, of course they are justified in denouncing us: but I think they might as well endeavour to prove that there would be no diseases if there were no physicians.

If that man is deemed a benefactor of his species who studies surgery habituating himself to sights of horror and painful operations for the sake of preventing greater suffering; I know not how the candid can inveigh against the members of a profession, in which a comparatively small body of men, from similar motives take the whole position of humanity worst affliction upon themselves.
Miss Sorters "The Hungarian Brother." 

Diary of James Caldwell

Monday 23 January 1809

At Newcastle in consequence of a Letter received from Wm Hindley & consulting with Mr Bent on Macclesfield Concerns &c.  Deeply intended[?] by a letter received from Mr Wedgwood this Evening announcing his intention of leaving Etruria & writing Answer to him. 

Tuesday 24 January 1809

At home prevented from going to Stone to attend Select Committee Meeting by the extreme tempestuousness of the weather.

Wednesday 25 January 1809

At Stone.  Mr Sparrow, Simpson & Self.  Returned in the Evening to Stoney fields where I slept.

Thursday 26 January 1809

Engaged with Mr Bent on the subject of his purchase of Mr Barrows[?] Share, considering either[?] to be sent to him by Mr Bent in reply to one received.  Hasty letter to Mr Hindley &c.  Afterwards at Etruria calling upon Mr Wedgwood, with whom & Mrs W, a painful & most impressive Interview.  Never did this charming woman appear so interesting & superior.  At their request promised to dine with them tomorrow for the purpose of cool discussion & consideration of the step proposed to be taken.

[Page 13]

Friday 27 January 1809

At Etruria with Eliza.  Mr & Mrs Jos Wedgwood also.  Long discussion & consideration of the state of Mr Wedgwoods Concerns &c &c the arrangement proposed to be made as to his domestic affairs.  Finally prevailed upon him to relinquish the plan of leaving Etruria, & adopt that of Retrenchment in various particulars.   At the earnest intreaty of the party staid all night.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

27th January 1809, Friday
Mamma and I called at Basford. Papa joined us at Etruria to dinner. Met Mr and Mrs Jos (Wedgwood). My Aunt went to Nantwich.

Diary of James Caldwell

Saturday 28 January 1809

Staid at Etruria till about 12.  Long & interesting Conversation again, but had the satisfaction to leave our much valued friends easier in mind.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

28th January 1809, Saturday
Came home.

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 29 January 1809

At home.  Enoch Wood with letter from his Father relative to the intended Treaty for the Coals with Warburton &c.

Monday 30 January 1809

Engaged all Morning on various matters.  In the Evening went to Stone, accompanied by Mr Thos Sparrow on way to Wolseley Bridge.

Tuesday 31 January 1809

Attending General Assembly at Wolseley Bridge.  In the Evening returned to Stone.

Feb[ruar]y

Wednesday 1^st February 1809

Brewery.  Returned home to dinner.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

1st February 1809, Wednesday
Make it a rule through the whole course of your life if you find yourself in any particular perplexity never to act till your judgment is cool. You may talk and plan what you please but while your imagination is heated and till you have given yourself time to consider every thing in its several [bearings?] and that your reason and judgment have fair play; never act. JC [James Caldwell?]

Diary of James Caldwell - age 50

Thursday 2 February 1809

At Trentham Inn attending Meeting to hear appeals against Militia Lists.  Very long & fatiguing day & obliged to adjourn to Saturday, not being able to get through the whole of the Business.  It was near 8 oClock when I got home to dinner.  Sir John Chetwode Mr Mainwaring Mr Spode & Self.  The two former went away early.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - 20

2nd February 1809, Thursday
Mamma, Eliza, Anne and I went to the Assembley. Mrs Yates and Edward Powys managers. A very pleasant evening. Select and sociable.

Diary of James Caldwell - age 50

Friday 3 February 1809

At home.  Engaged on the farm & various matters

Saturday 4 February 1809

At Newcastle attending adjourned Militia Meeting.  Mr Spode & Self.  Afterwards at the Brewery on various matters.  Fixed to meet Mr Barrow[?] at Knutsford on Monday next.

Sunday 5 February 1809

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

Monday 6 February 1809

A home.  Engaged on the farm &c &c

Tuesday 7 February 1809

At Burslem attending Meeting Messrs Warburton Gallimore Walthall

[Page 14]

1809 Feby

Wood John Wedgwood Bignall End & Self relative to forming an Agreem[en]t for laying dry Coals in their several Lands by means of our Engines & Gutter, when some Minutes were made for the Consideration of the Parties.

Wednesday 8 February 1809

At Talk Chapel attending Service it being the Fast day.  Severely cold & strange day.  In the Evening Dr & Edward Crompton arrived.  Journey to Knutsford put off till next week in pursuant[?] to a Note from Mr Bent received yesterday at Burslem.

Thursday 9 February 1809

At home Engaged with the Doctor &c.  Brewery &c &

Friday 10 February 1809

Do Farm &c

Saturday 11 February 1809

Do   Do

Sunday 12 February 1809

Do Unwell confined to the House

Monday 13 February 1809

Do Do

Tuesday 14 February 1809

Do

Wednesday 15 February 1809

Set out to Liverpool with Mr Bent.  Arrived at the Star & Garter in the Evening.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - age 20

15th February 1809, Wednesday 
Papa went to Liverpool. Mamma, I &c called at Basford and Butterton

Diary of James Caldwell - age 50

Thursday 16 February 1809

Engaged at the Brewery

Friday 17 February 1809

Do Do

Saturday 18 February 1809

.  Do.  Brewed for the first time.

Sunday 19 February 1809

In the Morning attended Mr Yates Chapel.  Sermon on occasion of the death of the late Mr Rathbone.  Dined at Eton & returned to Liverpool in the Evening

Monday 20 February 1809

Returned home.

Tuesday 21 February 1809

At home.  Letter writing &c &c &c

Wednesday 22 February 1809

Do.  Much engaged.

Thursday 23 February 1809

At Macclesfield meeting Mr & Mrs Barrow[?] & Mr Duckworth & finally agreeing with Mr B for the purchase by Wm Bent of his Shares in the Newcastle, Shrewsbury & Macclesfield Concerns.

Friday 24 February 1809

Engaged inquiring into & Arranging matters at Macclesfield Brewery but returned home to dinner.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - age 20

24th February 1809, Friday
Called on Mrs Boughey at Betley to see the little heir.

Diary of James Caldwell - age 50

Saturday 25 February 1809

At Newcastle attending Local Militia Meeting.  Mr Kinnersly & self

[Page15]

1809

Sunday 26 February 1809

At home.  Service &c but unwell & in the House all day.

Monday 27 February 1809

Do Letter writing.  Engaged in the Grounds.  Alcock

Tuesday 28 February 1809

At home.

March

Wednesday 1 March 1809

At Burslem.  Colliery Business &c &c    

Diary of Mary Caldwell

1st March 1809, Wednesday
My Aunt Eliza and Anne went to the book sale.

Diary of James Caldwell

Thursday 2 March 1809

Sir John Chetwode Lady Harriet & Miss Chetwode Mr & Mrs Jos Wedgwood & Mr W Sneyd at Linley Wood

Diary of Mary Caldwell

2nd March 1809, Thursday
Sir John, Lady H and Miss Chetwode, Mr and Mrs Jos Wedgwood and Mr Sneyde dined at Linley Wood.

Diary of James Caldwell

Friday 3 March 1809

The Chetwodes left in the Morning.  Mr & Ms Jos Wedgwood staid.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

3rd March 1809, Friday
The Chetwodes went.

Diary of James Caldwell

Saturday 4 March 1809

At home.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

4th March 1809, Saturday
Mr and Mrs Jos went. Mamma and I went to Newcastle with Mrs Jos Wedgwood. Saw the Bents and Miss S.W., Captain V B came home.

Want of tenderness is want of parts and no less a proof of stupidity than depravity. Dr Johnson. 
I wish this maxim may hold good in its antithesis. 
 
When then my good friend I'd have past you in haste. [page B134]
But roasted like coffee you'r quite to my taste
The blink of a bad eye they tell me to flee
T'is the glance of a blithe none that's danger to me.
How much were deceived when we judge by our eyes 
To look at his face one should think the man wise.
Recollect my dear Lady, so blithe and so gay,
That a flirt and a butterfly live but a day.
Play the part of a woman as well as you can
Still your manners and brains they are those of a man
Without beauty or wit or fortune to tell
As a derniere resort the girl comes out a belle
What pity those manners that grave and those parts
Should be used but as baits to catch silly girls hearts
That your hair is your own you've no wig in its stead
And you always be proving by shaking your head
Raise your eyes from the ground my fair dame I desire
You may safely look round they'll set no one on fire
Your various charms tis generous to display
The certain way to take their power away
Your eyes they dazzle but don't charm my fair
Like summer suns they do not shine but glare.

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 5 March 1809

At home

Monday 6 March 1809

At Butterton with Family.  Hedge in the Meadow began to be taken down.  Thomas Thomson Gardiner came to his place wages 19s  P week 12 Quarts Beer P week & House

Diary of Mary Caldwell

6th March 1809, Monday
Papa, Mamma, Louisa and I dined and stayed all night at Butterton. The Jos Wedgwoods and Mr [Ruse?]

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 7 March 1809

From Butterton to Stone.  Select Committee

Wednesday 8 March 1809

Stone.  Returned to dinner.  Miss Hitchens

Diary of Mary Caldwell

8th March 1809, Wednesday
Miss Fletchers and S. Wedgwood came.

Diary of James Caldwell

Thursday 9 March 1809

At home.  Engaged in Grounds & various matters.  Mr Butt dined & staid all night.   

Diary of Mary Caldwell

9th March 1809, Thursday
Mr Butt dined and stayed all night. How apt one is at home to think oneself in fault if all are not in spirits, this is foolish as it lowers ones own; and does not mend the matter for the time being. And time shews it is false.

Diary of James Caldwell

Friday 10 March 1809

At home.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

10th March 1809, Friday
Miss S. Wedgwood left us. 

Diary of James Caldwell

Saturday 11 March 1809

At Burslem Colliery from thence to Basford calling upon Capt Bent, but found him out.   Returned to dinner.  Navig[atio]n papers.

Sunday 12 March 1809

Went to Cheadle with Mr Robinson on the business of Alton Mill Pool.

Monday 13 March 1809

Engaged all day surveying Course of Canal & the various modes proposed of passing the Mills.  Met Col Wilson & Mr Ingleby and finally arranged the business with them subject only to the decision of the Select Committee.  In the Evening Mr John Philips.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

13th March 1809, Monday
Miss Fletchers left us. Captain Bent, Mr Rawson returned. Capas call. Spanish fatigues do not seem to have lowered his spirits or injured his health. 

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 14 March 1809

Mr Blagg breakfasted with us.  Perused Bill brought into Parliam[en]t for Inclosure of Olerton[?] Commons.  Clause to be introduced for securing to the Navign the Inclosure made by them

[Page 16]

1809 March

some time ago with the Consent of the Lord of the Manor.  From Cheadle to the Wheat Sheaf at Stoke attending Lieuten[anc]y Meeting for enrolling & swearing in Volunteers into the Local Militia.  Very busy & fatiguing day.  Col Sneyd Mr Spode & Self.  Went home to dinner not til 8 o'Clock.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

14th March 1809, Tuesday [page B136]
A fine long walk before they left us. The pleasure of calling up the remembrance of happy days long since gone by with those with whom you enjoyed them.

Diary of James Caldwell

Wednesday 15 March 1809

At Newcastle to have called on Mr Rd Bent but he was gone out.  Brewery &c &c

Thursday 16 March 1809

At home.  Engaged on farm & various Matters.

Friday 17 March 1809

Do.  Mr Slater of Liverpool arrived in the Morning.  Long Conversation relative to Liverpool Brewery.  Captain Bent & Mr Rawson came to dinner.

Saturday 18 March 1809

The Gentlemen left Linley Wood.  Engaged in the farm &c and also on finally correcting the proof Sheet of Houghtons Essays which had arrived last night by the Post.

Sunday 19 March 1809

Engaged in the Morning again with the Proof Sheet & writing Letter to Houghton.  Service as usual.  Mr Wood came to dinner with whom much Conversation in Colliery & other Concerns.

At Newcastle.  

Monday 20 March 1809

At home.  Farm &c

Diary of Mary Caldwell - age 20

20th March 1809, Monday
Mr A came for the last time before his leaving the country to go to Derby. Regret must always be felt at parting from a person who has been in the habit of the greatest part of a day every week for a long succession of years in your family and has always conducted himself with the utmost propriety.

Diary of James Caldwell - age 50 

Tuesday 21 March 1809

At Trentham Inn attending Lieutenancy Meeting & enrolling Local Militia.  Mr Spode & Self.  Afterwards at Finney Green dining with Mr Pool.  Mr Spode & I going in a Chaise from Newcastle.

Wednesday 22 March 1809

At Burslem meeting Mr Bent & Mr Slater.  The former to consider of the proposed plan of lining the Gyle Tun in Breweries with earthen ware.  Long Consultation with Mr Wood thereon, who had no doubt of its practicability & undertook to get some Tiles made immediately for the purpose of making the experiment.  Mr

[Page 17]

1809 March

Slater much gratified with the Steam Engines which he said greatly exceeded any idea he had formed of them.  Mr Slater returned with me to Linley Wood to dinner.  Mr B & Mr W prevented from accompanying us by accidental circumstances.  On my return found Alcock who finally took his A----ers[?] previous to his removal to Derby after an acquaintance of nearly 30 years I could not but feel much concern at parting, having derived many hours of pleasure from his performance on the violin.

Thursday 23 March 1809

At Newcastle with Mr later attending Agricult[ura]l Meeting.  Rev Mr Hill being the President.  Good Meeting & pleasant day.

Friday 24 March 1809

Mr Slater left us.  Dined at Basford.  Mr & Mrs Tollet.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - age 20

24th March 1809, Friday
They dined at Basford.

Diary of James Caldwell - age 50

Saturday 25 March 1809

At Newcastle settling Acc[ount]s & receiving £1000 due to Dr Crompton on Bond from the late Mr Sneyd & which he had agreed to lend me to advance into the Liverpool Concern.  Returned to dinner.

Sunday 26. March 1809

At home.  Service as usual.

Monday 27 March 1809

Do.  Engaged on Colliery papers.  Drawing Dra[ft] of Articles of Agreem[en]t between Wood & Caldwell & John Wedgwood, Peter Warburton & others for unwatering Coals by the Burslem Engine &c &c      

Tuesday 28 March 1809

At Burslem with Draft reading over & considering the same with Mr Wood.  Mr & Mrs John Wedgwood came to dinner & to pass a short time at Linley Wood.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - age 20

28th March 1809, Tuesday
Mr and Mrs John Wedgwood with Rob and Jessy came. How delighted I felt to know I was going to enjoy her charming society for a fortnight.

Diary of James Caldwell - age 50

Wednesday 29 March 1809

At Stafford.  There being a remarkably full attendance the Grand Jury & 23 on the List before we Returned home in the Evening promising to go back to Stafford on Friday to attend on a special Jury.

Thursday 30 March 1809

At home Engaged all morning closely with the Colliery Articles & afterwards making a fair Copy for Mr Woods perusal.  Long.

Friday 31 March 1809

Again at Stafford.  Attended a Special Jury Hanbury v Ballin[?].  The Cause of Unett & Beech on the trial which I had attended at the last Assizes & which had excited much interest was comprised the parties agreeing to divide the property & each pay his own Costs.

[Page 18]

1809   April

Saturday 1^st April 1809

Returned from Stafford.  A good deal fatigued with the business of the week.  In the Evening reading to our Party

Sunday 2 April 1809

At home.  Service as usual.  Mr Wood

Monday 3 April 1809

Do.  Engaged on various mattes & unwell.

Diary of Mary Caldwell - age 20

3rd April 1809, Monday
My Aunts came. Perfection is not to be met with upon earth but as far as it is surely it is before my eyes, a pure and religious heart joined to an excellent understanding and an artless character in the most beautiful person I ever knew. She rises if possible every day in my estimation; and after my own family she possesses the most of my confidence and my heart, and I feel every day more and more grateful for the kindness and confidence with which she treats us more like sisters than anything else. May every blessing and above all, that of health be in store for her.

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 4 April 1809

At Stone attending Navig[atio]n Gen[era]l Committee Meeting

Wednesday 5 April 1809

Do.  General Assembly.  Returned late to dinner

Diary of Mary Caldwell

5th April 1809, Wednesday
Anne and Maria Bent came. 

Diary of James Caldwell

Thursday 6 April 1809

At Madeley attending Meeting Property  assessed taxes.  Fatiguing day having the whole to go through with Nr Mainwaring.  Sr Tho Fletcher Col Sneyd & Mr Boughey engaged on Justices business.

Friday 7 April 1809

At home.  Engaged perusing & correcting further proof Sheets of Houghtons Essays & and on various other matters.

Saturday 8 April 1809

At Macclesfield with W Bent on the affairs of Wm Handley[?] & Co.  Out all day.  Dined at the Red Bull Lawton on our Return

Diary of Mary Caldwell

8th April 1809, Saturday
The Bents left us. Much pleasure in their society.

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 9 April 1809

At home.  Service as usual.

Monday 10 April 1809

At Whitehall.  Rev Mr Salmon to have met Mr Edleston relative to the Conveyance to Sr Tho Broughton &c but he did not come having gone to the Assizes at Chester.  From Whitehall to Sandbach were I found Mr Salmon & Conversation with him on this business.  Returned to dinner.  

Tuesday 11 April 1809

At home.  Engaged on farm &c &c

Diary of Mary Caldwell

11th April 1809, Tuesday [page B138]
My dear Mrs Wedgwood left us; never did I feel more regret at parting with any of my friends. It is impossible to be long in her company without feeling the heart improved and warmed and the understanding enlarged.

Diary of James Caldwell

Wednesday 12

Do.  Engaged with papers previous to setting off to Shrewsbury in the morning with Sr John Heathcote & Mr Bent.

[Page 19]

1809

Thursday 13 April 1809

In Shrewsbury with Sir John Heathcote & Mr Bent.

Friday 14 April 1809

At Shrewsbury closely engaged all day with Brewery Accounts &c till late at night.

Saturday 15 April 1809

Do.   Do

Sunday 16 April 1809

Returned home late.  Found Mr Skerrett.

Monday 17 April 1809

At home.  Much fatigued & unwell.  Engaged with sundry papers, letters, &c.  Elizth with Eliza went to Knutsford.  Mr S left us.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

17th April 1809, Monday
Mamma, Aunt B, Eliza and I went to Mr Hollands of Knutsford to dinner on E and my road to Liverpool I felt less reluctance at leaving home than usual occasioned I think by Mamma's accompanying me part of the way.

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 18 April 1809

At Sandon.  Attending Meeting of Select Navign Committee.  Returned at night late & much fatigued.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

18th April 1809, Tuesday
Eliza and I went to Mrs Wallaces of Liverpool.

Diary of James Caldwell

Monday 19 April 1809

At Home.  Engaged on the Grounds, the extension of the water in the ground above the Meadow, having been begun yesterday morning, and a number of People being at work.  The removal of the hedge which had hitherto bounded the Meadow, and the enlargement of the water, I have undertaken this Spring, with a view to gratifying Stamford, on his Return from Scotland, he having frequently expressed a wish that this improvement might be made, at least so far as relates to the removal of the Hedge.  It necessarily points out and will ultimately I trust lead to still greater ones; but by when to be executed depends upon a higher power!!

Diary of Mary Caldwell in Liverpool

19th April 1809, Wednesday
A party at Mrs Wallaces. Amongst whom were Mrs Cranie, Lucy and Mr Wallace, C and Miss [Renaud, Rawson?]. Much delighted with Lucy.

Diary of James Caldwell

Thurs 20 April 1809

At Madeley. Attending Meeting of Comm[issioner]s on Appeals under the Assessed & Property Taxes.  Hard & laborious day.  Having left home between 7 and 8 in the morning and not getting back till between 6 & 7 at night literally without eating drinking or almost sitting down.  The business as usual devolved upon myself.  The other Gentlemen

[Page 20]

1809

Sr John Chetwode and Sir Thomas Fletcher being engaged on business as Magistrates and Mr Mainwaring being my only assistant.

Diary of Mary Caldwell in Liverpool

20th April 1809, Thursday
At Mrs D'Aguilards, a family quite unique. Mr D'A was of Jewish extraction and the mark is not yet quite worn out even in his children. Mrs D'A the most beautiful woman I ever saw.

Diary of James Caldwell

Friday 21 April 1809

At Home.  Mr William Penlington, relative to the affairs of his father & Letter received from Mr Simms[?] (who has married Miss Audley).  Considering this business again, sketching out letter to be written in reply &c &c  Afterwards Engaged on the Grounds with the workmen &c.

Diary of Mary Caldwell in Liverpool

21st April 1809, Friday
At Mrs Curries. Mr Barclay &c. Very pleasant evening, music and more nice chat after the party were gone.

Diary of James Caldwell

Saturday 22 April 1809

At Burslem in consequence of a letter received last night from Mr Wood on Colliery concerns.  From thence to Newcastle Brewery &c.  Mr Bent told me that if in the solution of the Liquor the heat rose above 180 Degrees by the Sachrometer it occasions a Loss of 10 p Cent, if 200 20 p Cent.

Diary of Mary Caldwell in Liverpool

22nd April 1809, Saturday
Mrs Currie, Miss R and Lucy with us. L very playful. 

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 23 April 1809

At home.  Unwell.

Diary of Mary Caldwell in Liverpool

23rd April 1809, Sunday
Went to Mr Yate's chapel. Delighted with the music and admired Mr Yates reading the Scriptures though there was not quite simplicity enough in his manner.

Diary of James Caldwell

Monday 24 April 1809

Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell in Liverpool

24th April 1809, Monday
Walked to the beach[?] and returned by the shore. It is a most delightful place and the view of the sea had its accustomed effect of making me almost wild. Lucy went with us and contributed much to my pleasure. A musical party at Mr John Fletcher's in the evening. Very much delighted indeed. Lucy, Mr Barclay &c &c there.

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 25 April 1809

At home.  Mr Blunt & John Blunt dined.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

25th April 1809, Tuesday [page B140]
A dance at Mrs W Duncans. A most varying crowd and as I knew few people I did not stay supper. Danced with Mr John Hodgson.

Diary of James Caldwell

Wednesday 26

At home.

Diary of Mary Caldwell in Liverpool

26th April 1809, Wednesday
At home. Captain Bent and Mr R Rawson called.

Diary of James Caldwell 

Thursday 27 April 1809

At Burslem, Colliery Business.  Mr Wood returned to dinner & staid all night.

Diary of Mary Caldwell in Liverpool

27th April 1809, Thursday
Lucy Currie went to Chester races. Mrs C and Miss R came to Mrs W's. 

Diary of James Caldwell

Friday 28 April 1809

At Macclesfield with Mr Bent.  Brewery Concerns.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

28th April 1809, Friday
At Mrs George Duncan's, the sister of Dr [beam?], a charming Scotch woman, not elegant but so kind hearted and good humored that she quite won my heart. A very merry evening.

Diary of James Caldwell

Saturday 29 April 1809

At Etruria dining with Mr & Mrs Wedgwood.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

29th April 1809, Saturday
At Dr Rostock's. Met the D'Aquilards &c. As grave and pretty behaved as one ought to be in a batchelors' house. Pined for sweet Lucy.

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 30 April 1809

At home.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

30th April 1809, Sunday
Went to the Catholic chapel. The music most delightful. I could not see much of the ceremonies, pleased and improved.

Diary of James Caldwell

May

Monday 1^st May 1809

[Entry crossed out]

Diary of Mary Caldwell

1st May 1809, Monday
Breakfasted at the [Sack Sach?]. Miss Byrams and Mr C McMurdo spent two hours on the shore. A monstrous party at Mrs W. Mr Barclay, Mr [March?] Mr Bent and Mr A Yates &c &c.

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 2 May 1809

At home.  Mr Armistead on his affairs, dined.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

2nd May 1809, Tuesday [page B141]
Went to the docks with Mrs Currie, Mr Barclay, Dr [Ive] Brandreth and W Rathbone. Saw [RR, MM?] for a moment. Went to the top of the Exchange and the Lyceum. A delightful walk, went into two ships. A musical party at Mr Baileys.

Diary of James Caldwell

Wednesday 3 May 1809

At Nantwich.

Diary of Mary Caldwell at Liverpool

3rd May 1809, Wednesday
At Miss Slaters.Mr W Roscoe, Mr Barclay, Bent &c, Mr John Hodgson and the D'Aquilards. Agreeably disappointed the innate fire of Genius is delightful when it blazes forth and kindles into flame.

Diary of James Caldwell

Thursday 4 May 1809

Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

4th May 1809, Thursday
Went to the Docks with Mrs Fletcher, Barclay, R Rathbone. Saw a launch and the frigate that is building. The pleasure of being confirmed in ones own opinion in spite of all urged to make one change it by various surrounding friends. At the Yate's Mr Bent triste to a degree.

Diary of James Caldwell

Friday 5 May 1809

Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell in Liverpool

5th May 1809, Friday
At home.

Diary of James Caldwell

Saturday 6 May 1809

Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell at the Crompton's near Liverpool

6th May 1809, Saturday
Went to Eton with Miss Millicent Nicholson, the Rawsons. Chess and dancing soberly.

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 7 May 1809

Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell at Peter Crompton's Bishop Eton house, near Liverpool.

7th May 1809, Sunday
Went to Mr Shepherd's chapel. Dined at Miss Lawrence's and drank tea at Mrs Shepherds[?]. Some agreeable confab after supper.

Diary of James Caldwell

Monday 8 May 1809

Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell in Liverpool

8th May 1809, Monday
Came back to Liverpool. Went to a delightful dance at Dr Brandreth's. Mr Barclay, March, D'Aguilard, C McMurdo &c. Danced till near 4 o'clock, never spent a much pleasanter evening.

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 9 May 1809

Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell in Liverpool

9th May 1809, Tuesday
Called on the Bents, Mr Barclay, R Rathbone called. J,T, L . Met the Bents at the Botanic Garden where we went with Mr Robert Duncan. Went to the Play, disgusted. Spirits low at parting from those with whom I had spent so many happy hours. 

Diary of James Caldwell

Wednesday 10 May 1809

Returned to Linley Wood

Diary of Mary Caldwell

10th May 1809, Wednesday
Came home to dear dear Linley Wood, found only my Papa, Aunt and Anne. Why do we weep and sigh at meeting beloved friends and our native spot? 

Diary of James Caldwell

[Page 21]

1809 May

Thursday 11 May 1809

At home.  Engaged on various affairs in consequence of my long absence.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

11th May 1809, Thursday [page B143]
Mamma and the girls came home from Nantwich and summer set in most completely.

Diary of James Caldwell

Friday 12 May 1809

At Madeley.  Meeting Property & Assessed Taxes.

Saturday 13 May 1809

At home.  Engaged with Grounds &c

Sunday 14 May 1809

Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

14th May 1809, Sunday
Very hot. Went to Church.

On winglet of the faiery humming bird
Like atoms of the rainbow fluttering round.
Campbell's Wyoming.
 
Quand on a plenee ensemble on est aime.
La Fontaines Tableau de Famille

Diary of James Caldwell

Monday 15 May 1809

At Burslem, from thence to Etruria & Newcastle, Brewery business &c.  Fixed to go with Mr Bent to Liverpool on Sunday.

Tuesday 16 May 1809

At home.  Lady Fletcher & Mrs Boughey called.  Letter to Sir John Heathcote on Mr Catusian business.  Do. to Mr Colclough Sandbach Penlingtons affairs.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

16th May 1809, Tuesday
Mr Boughey and the Fletchers called. My dearest JSC (James Stamford Caldwell) came home from Edinburgh.

Diary of James Caldwell

Wednesday 17 May 1809

In the Morning Mr Wedgwood of Burslem & Mr Wood.  Afterwards Meeting Mr Coombe of Newcastle & Mr Rowley of Oulton on behalf of Mrs Alsagers relative to trees in Linley Lane proposed to cut down.  When all Parties were satisfied that so far as related to my Land in Alsager next to Linley Lane the Ladies had no right.  Afterwards looking at Waste Land opposite to the Oak farm House which I wished to enclose, & which Mr Rowley contested to my doing.  Turned Cows & Sheep into the Land before the House.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

17th May 1809, Wednesday
Mr W Bent dined. JSC went to Nantwich for one night.

Diary of James Caldwell

Thursday 18 May 1809

At Butterton calling at Mr Swinnertons but he was not at home.  Left Mr Catusians[?] Letters &c.  W Bent & Mr Forrest of Birmingham came to Linley Wood to dinner & staid all night.

Friday 19 May 1809

Set off with W Bent to Liverpool on Brewery Concerns.  Mr Forrest accompanied us to Knutsford.  Arrived at Liverpool to dinner.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

19th May 1809, Friday
My Aunt fetched Eliza from Etruria.

Diary of James Caldwell

Saturday 20 May 1809

Engaged all day on Brewery Affairs, which wear a very promising & favourable appearance.  Dined in Clayton Square with the Bent family who had been spending a short time at Liverpool but prevented calling any where else by the hurry of Business.

NB In order to give the freshness or spiriturity to Malt Liquor Before it is run off the Cooler first stir it up so that a small portion of the Malt hops may go along with it.  But whale[?] the balk sub---[?] by too much would spoil it

Diary of Mary Caldwell

20th May 1809, Saturday
Mr Boughey called.

Diary of James Caldwell

[Page 22]

1809 May

Sunday 21 May 1809

Set off on our Return home accompanied by Mr W Bent.  Arrived at Macclesfield to dinner & making sundry arrangements in this Concern.  I run thence to Linley Wood.  Found Mr Cartusal[?] who I had invited to come down for a day or two in order to ascertain the eligibility of his succeeding Mr Alcock.  Found that Mr Boughey had called at Linley Wood on Saturday.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

21st May 1809, Sunday
JSC and Mamma breakfasted at Etruria and brought back Mr [Calusac?], the music master elect. 

Si nous n'avons tout ce que nous desirons nous ne conte pour rien ce que nous avons. Ce que nous manqué nous inquiet plus quell que nous posseidons ne rensit a nous satisfaire.
Massilon La Purification.

Diary of James Caldwell

Monday 22 May 1809

Engaged all day with Mr Cartusal[?] & various matters

Tuesday 23 May 1809

Eliza Miss T Mary & Ann set off to London.  At Trentham Inn attending Meeting Land Property & Assessed Taxes, Sir John Heathcote, Mr Steadman & Self.  Returned to dinner.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

23rd May 1809, Tuesday [page B144]
Mamma, my Aunt Anne and I set out for town, met the Cromptons at Litchfield, slept at Coventry. Saw the painting at Litchfield called [daub?].

Wednesday 24 May 1809

At home engaged on the farm & various matters.  In the morning Stamford set off to London.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 20, on way to London

24th May 1809, Wednesday
Slept at Dunstable.

Diary of James Caldwell

Thursday 25 May 1809

Do.  Mr Broadhurst of Mansfield & his Son came soon after breakfast & staid all day & with whom engaged.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 20, on holiday in London with her mother, Aunt Anne Caldwell, Stamford Caldwell and Anne MC.

25th May 1809, Thursday
Reached town. Very miserable lodgings; and felt very miserable in them.

Diary of James Caldwell

Friday 26 May 1809

At Newcastle with Deeds belonging to Knypersly Estate in Mortgage to the late Mrs[?] Bentley, which I delivered to Mr Tho Sparrow for the purpose of an abstract being made agreeable to Sr John Heathcotes request.  Signed a part Note to the Executors of the late Mrs Fenton for £400 in lieu of one for that Sum which had been stolen.  Brewery Concerns &c &c &c

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 20, on holiday in London with Stamford Caldwell and Anne MC.

26th May 1809, Friday
Had nothing to do but stare out of a dull dirty window; into a dull street without a thorough fare. Hoping that JSC would meet with lodgings and dreading that we should stay where we were. Counting the clocks in hopes of something better on the morrow.

Diary of James Caldwell

Saturday 27 May 1809

At Burslem.  Various matters.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 20, on holiday in London with her mother, Aunt Anne Caldwell, Stamford Caldwell and Anne MC.

27th May 1809, Saturday
Got into lodgings in Margaret St which were small but looked so clean and happy that I felt quite myself again; and in better humour too with myself and every one else.

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 28 May 1809

At home

Monday 29 May 1809

Do.  Farm &c &c

Tuesday 30 May 1809

Mr Wood, Mr Tho Wedgwood & E Wood dined.

Wednesday 31 May 1809

At Mare Hall, Sir John & Lady H Chetwode Mr G Chetwode & Mr & Mrs Tollett dined.

June

Thursday 1^st June 1809

At Do Dr Northern & Mr Blunt dined.

Friday 2 June 1809

At Do. Mr & Mrs O[?] Crewe Miss F Crewe Rev Mr & Mrs Robinson Mr Ricketts & Mr Butt dined.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 20, on holiday in London with her mother, Aunt Anne Caldwell, Stamford Caldwell and Anne MC.

2nd June 1809, Friday
Mr Adams called. Felt very dull and mauvais hortenish. Much imagination in his conversation which is one proof of genius; but puffed! That universal and most unaccountable failing; as I should think every body would have discovered that it is a trick too commonly played to take anyone in.

Diary of James Caldwell

Saturday 3 June 1809

Returned to Linley Wood to dinner

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 20, on holiday in London with Stamford Caldwell and Anne MC.

3rd June 1809, Saturday
To the Exhibition and Miss [Linwoods, Zinwoods?], much pleased with the latter.

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 4 June 1809

At home.  Dr & Mrs & Miss Crompton arrived to dinner with whom engaged. (Dr Peter Crompton, Eton House, Liverpool?)

Monday 5 June 1809

Prevented attending Mr Tollets sheep shearing by my engagements with the doctor

[Page 23]

1809 June

Read h[e]artily Parrs Character of Fox which the D. had ------ -----[?] Intelligent & honest then will always be ready to grant that moderation in principles is very compatible with orders in Language.  Parr Character of Fox p.293

Tuesday 6 June 1809

At Newcastle with Dr Crompton.  Liverpool Brewery &c.  The Doctor left us in the afternoon.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 20, on holiday in London with her mother, Aunt Anne Caldwell, Stamford Caldwell and Anne MC.

6th June 1809, Tuesday
Mr Dennison dined with us. Walked with Fanny Heathcote, Anne and JSC, well drenched. 

Diary of James Caldwell

Wednesday 7 June 1809

Mrs Crompton &c left Linley after Breakfast.  At Nantwich calling on General Skerrett.  Dined with him & Mr S in Dysart Buildings & returned home in the Evening.

Thursday 8 June 1809

At home.  Engaged all Morning writing Letters &c &c

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 20, on holiday in London with her mother, Aunt Anne Caldwell, Stamford Caldwell and Anne MC.

8th June 1809, Thursday
Went to the Opera. Much amused and delighted, blushed. Mr Baldock perfect native, much pleased with so rarely to be met with a character where the heart was permitted to display itself in its turn and claim its share of attention, if I am not mistaken.

Diary of James Caldwell

Friday 9 June 1809

Do.  In the morning reading writing &c.  Afterwards on the farm.

Diary of Mary Caldwell aged 20, on holiday in London wit her mother, Aunt Anne Caldwell,h Stamford Caldwell and Anne MC.

9th June 1809, Friday
Went to the Haymarket, a very pleasant evening. W Baldock joined us. Music had and a tale of mystery, laughed and felt happy.

Diary of James Caldwell

Saturday 10 June 1809

Rev Boyle in his life speaking of the restlessness of Fancy which accustomed his thoughts to wring[?] Says To Great an unhappiness it is for persons that are born with such busy thoughts not to have consequent objects proposed to them at first."  Boyles life p.16 Qo. Ed. 1772

How often & with what better reason have not I myself regretted the being born with such a disposition to wandering thoughts, and not having them furnished by Education with the best means of checking them namely, an acquaintance with the operations of the understanding, which accustom, & raiflate[?] the mind to an attention, so close as not to admit of -------ness[?] or distraction.  Considered  even in this point of view I have always regarded Mathematics as invaluable.  To those inclined by nature to a melancholy pensiveness as well as possessing a strong & lively imagination, qualities often united.  I know nothing that can be more effectual to dissipate the one, & controul the other, and ultimately to fortify & guard the mind against the evils of both.

Mr William Penlington on their affairs.  Mr Eardley Talke relative to forming a Society within the Liberty of Talke for prosecut[io]n of Offenders: which I approved.

Sunday 11 June 1809

At home

Monday 12 June 1809

At Burslem.  From thence to Etruria in consequence of a letter from Jos Wedgwood requiring my advice on the affairs of the late Mr Tho Wedgwood of Burslem, he & his Brother having been appointed Trustees & Executors under the will, but he was gone from Etruria.  Advised Mr Wedgwood not to do any Act that might be in "Acting" under the will till I saw him & his Brother together.  From thence to Newcastle & home.  Meeting Jas Bent on the Road who had been at Linley Wood to make a farewell call previous to again joining his Regiment.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

12th June 1809, Monday
To Kensington, the Hanover rooms.

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 13 June 1809

At home.  Engaged on the farm.  Reading &c

Though I cannot say that my own Experience has fully confirmed the following Remark of Bass[?] ('one of the wise Men') yet I think it generally true, & deserving of the particular Consideration of those, who like myself, have engaged much in endeavouring to settle amicably the differences amongst friends & neighbours.   Bias says, "It is better to decide a difference betwixt our Enemies than friends, for one of the friends will certainly become an Enemy; one of the Enemies, a Friend."  Stanleys History of Philosophy p.41

Diary of Mary Caldwell

13th June 1809, Tuesday
The Dales, Miss Baldock, Delmar, [Carpenter, Captain?] and Fanny Heathcote to tea; the men supped. Very pleasant evening, much sweet pretty little [mourners, moaners, mooners?] and [forms fours?]. I was quite delighted with them.

Diary of James Caldwell

Wednesday 14: At Newcastle attending special tax Meeting at the Roebuck.  General & Mr Skerrett came to Linley Wood to dinner.  Mr Bent & R Skerrett also dined.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

14th June 1809, Wednesday
Saw the Four in Hand Club set out and the Cleveland gallery with which very much delighted indeed. Did not stay so long as I wished. (Four in Hand Club - a club of people driving old coaches with four horses in procession - was quite popular to watch)

Diary of James Caldwell

Thursday 15 June 1809

Engaged with the General & Mr S.  Dined at Mr Rob Skerrets

Diary of Mary Caldwell

15th June 1809, Thursday
Went to see the London Docks, astonished. Went to Vauxhall; much amused, disappointed in the band, Mr Adams with us, too bustling and attentive to the concerns of this [his?] [subtuary?] sphere for a genius.

Diary of James Caldwell

Friday 16 June 1809

At Burslem with the General & Mr S.  Returned at dinner

Saturday 17 June 1809

Went to Nantwich with the Gentlemen staid all night 

Sunday 18 June 1809

Returned in the Evening

Diary of Mary Caldwell

18th June 1809, Sunday
Went to Kensington Gardens. Mr M [dgon?] A very gay scene, met Mrs Atkinson. Mr Baldock and Delmar took tea with us. Much laughing and spent pleasant evening. Had some doubts, which occasioned regrets, left behind, which never were or can be cleared.

Diary of James Caldwell

Monday 19 June 1809

At Newcastle with Memorial which I had drawn up with the direction of General Skerrett relative to the obtaining of the Majority of the 20th Regiment by James Bent.  Mr Wood & Mr Thomas Wedgwood at dinner at Linley Wood.  In the afternoon Mr Salmon & Mr Ecleston relative to the conveyance of Mr P Share of the Saltworks & Settlement of the Account when it was agreed that Mr E & I should meet & endeavour to effect the matter in some unanimous[?] way.

[Page 25]

1809 June

Tuesday 20 June 1809

At Macclesfield with Mr Bent on Brewing Concerns.  Engaged closely all day.  NB When the Thermometer is at 60 the bad matter in the Liquor which is generated by fermentation begins to be put in action.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

20th June 1809, Tuesday
Saw the British Gallery. Mr Delmar with us. Hot lunch[?] and pleasant. Dreadfully hot. 

Diary of James Caldwell

Wednesday 21 June 1809

Engaged all Morning at Macclesfield.  Returned to Linley Wood to dinner.  In the Evening went with Mr B to Newcastle & returned.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

21st June 1809, Wednesday [page B147]
The Dales called and Mrs and Marianne Atkinson. 

Diary of James Caldwell

Thursday 22 June 1809

At Stone attending Meeting of Select Committee.   Much business

Diary of Mary Caldwell

22nd June 1809, Thursday
Called on the Dales. Mr Baldock and Delmar called. JJZ. Changed contrary ways.

Diary of James Caldwell

Friday 23 June 1809

Engaged in Do.  Left Stone at 2 & came to Etruria to dinner.  From thence returned with Eliza in the Evening to Linley Wood.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

23rd June 1809, Friday
Left town, slept at Dunchurch. Sally [Atkinson] and [Tom? Jos?] Wedgwood came down with us.

Diary of James Caldwell

Saturday 24 June 1809

At home.  In the Evening had the happiness to receive again my dear Wife & Children, on their Return from London.  Of the pleasure of such a Meeting none can judge but those who have felt it.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

24th June 1809, Saturday
Reached home. Most happy to return to its beloved inhabitants and scenes. 

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 25 June 1809

At home

Monday 26 June 1809

At home.  Farm.  Gardens &c &c.  Mr William Penlington breakfasted.  Consulting on their affairs &c.

Tuesday 27 June 1809

At Newcastle on various Matters.  Brewery &c &c

Wednesday 28 June 1809

At home.  Accounts &c

Thursday 29 June 1809

Do.  Mr Wood & Enoch dined.

Friday 30 June 1809

At Stafford attending Meeting for nomination of Member for the County in consequence of Lord Granville Leveson having been appointed Secretary at War, when his Lordship was again nominated.  Nomination objected to by Chas Wolseley & Mr Swinnerton of Butterton.  The former on the old ground of being a placeman & Pensioner.  The latter charge was repelled by Lord G who said he never had received a Shilling in the way of pension.  Mr Swinnerton brought up the worn out business of the Parish of Stoke Rectory Bill lately passed & objected to his Lordship, because he had not taken such a part in the business as Mr S wished.

The objections of both the opponents very poor & pitiful Seemed to be disregarded by the Meeting

Diary of Mary Caldwell

30th June 1809, Friday
Mrs Jos Wedgwood dined with us. 

Diary of James Caldwell

July

Saturday 1^st July 1809

At Burslem

Sunday 2 July 1809

Engaged comparing Observations relative to the late nomination for insertion in the Pottery Gazette.  Afterwards at Newcastle Stoke &c but not meeting with Mr Bent or Mr Spode I withheld the Observations.

Monday 3 July 1809

At Swinnerton Hall dining at Mr Tollett where we staid all night.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

3rd July 1809, Monday
Maria and John Bent took tea with us. Papa, Mamma and at Mr Tolletts at Swinnerton.

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 4 July 1809

Returned home.  Stopped at Newcastle on various matters.

Wednesday 5 July 1809

Set off with Mr Bent to Liverpool.  Arrived there to dinner.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

5th July 1809, Wednesday
My dear Mrs Wedgwood and Sally dined and stayed all night. Mr W in the evening. Original Sin[?!] 

Diary of James Caldwell

Thursday 6 July 1809

Closely engaged all day at the Counting House arranging & examining Books Accounts for General Statement & Settlement

Friday 7 July 1809

Do Do Do

Saturday 8 July 1809

At the request of Mr Townshend surveying with Mr Bent Building Land in Harrington purchased by him from Lord Sefton and in which he wished the Trustees for Mr Townshend to advance some money in order that Mr B & I might report our opinion to the Trustees.  Afterwards busily engaged all day & til late at night completing gen[era]l Statement & Settlement of the affairs of the concern which had every appearance of being in a flourishing & prosperous state.  Signing such Statement &c &c

Sunday 9 July 1809

At Eton to breakfast early; from thence to Macclesfield, to look after Brewery & home at night, having relinquished a plan which had been framed for Meeting Mr Robinson of Stone at Runcorn this Morning but which we found we could not accomplish without giving up Macclesfield.

[Page 27]

1809 July

Monday 10 July 1809

At home.  Engaged on various matters in consequence of my absence.  Preparations for mowing tomorrow &c &c

Tuesday 11 July 1809

Begun mowing the Meadow the weather which had for a considerable time past, been very wet & stormy having all the appearance of taking up.

Wednesday 12 July 1809

Engaged in the Hay.  Afterwards dining at Sr Tho Fletchers.  Mr & Mrs Sneyd of Ashcomb.  Returned in the Evening.

Thursday 13 July 1809

Do Do.  Mr Josiah Wedgwood, advising relative to the affairs of the late Tho Wedgwood of Burslem, the late purchase made by Miss Wedgwood from Mr Astbury, and an intended Bill in Parliament for confirming the Articles for the revision of the Commons & Waste grounds within the Manor of Mare.

Friday 14 July 1809

At home.  Engaged in the Hay Harvest &c &c.  Mr Houghton & his little Girl arrived at Linley Wood in the Evening.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

14th July 1809, Friday
My Uncle came.

Diary of James Caldwell

Saturday 15 July 1809

Do.  Engaged with Mr H.  Mr Skerrett came to dinner.  Mr Collison & Mr W Penlington also dined.  Engaged examining Accounts delivered by Mr Salmon &c &c

Diary of Mary Caldwell

15th July 1809, Saturday
Mr Haughton and his little girl came at night. What a pity it is that so very sensible and agreeable a man should be so singular and regardless of the manners and customs of the world, so much so as to make it scarcely possible to introduce him in to general society.

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 16 July 1809

At home.  Engaged with our friends.  H delivered a Sermon on the gen[era]l idea of great Events from little Causes.

Monday 17 July 1809

At Bartock[?] house Fishing.  Mr Skerrett left us at Bartock[?] house.  Perused the Epags by H.  Found them to read better than I had expected & approve many & more the argument.

Tuesday 18 July 1809

At home.  Houghton went this morning to Nantwich.

Dr & Mrs & Miss E Bent, Mr & Mrs Wedgwood, Dr & Mrs Northern & Miss Moreton dined.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

18th July 1809, Tuesday [page B148]
The Bents, Mr and Mrs John Wedgwood and the Northerns dined. Mr and Mrs W all night. Oh! Quelle est charmant et que je l'aime plus, que je ne puis jamais exprimer; et encore plus, charque temps que je la vois.

Diary of James Caldwell

Wednesday 19 July 1809

At home.  Houghton returned with whom engaged.

Thursday 20 July 1809

At Stafford attending the Assizes.  Went from Newcastle in a Chaise with Mr Tho Sparrow.  Served on the Grand Jury.  Dined with the Judges.  Much conversation with Mr Walhouse &c.  Sir John Chetwode &c on County Affairs.

[Page 28]

1809 July

Friday 21 July 1809

At Stafford.  Served on Special Jury in a Cause Clarke v Railston being an Action brought by the Father for the Seduction of his daughter.  Recommended it to the Jury to give £300 damages which they did.  The Judge (Sr John Boughey to whom I afterwards introduced myself on the ground of our former acquaintance at the Newcastle Election in 18 & who expressed the greatest & most cordial pleasure at seeing me again) said this was the precise Sum which he had himself though wd be the right measure of damages.  In these actions the Jury are to consider not merely the privation of actual Service, but the injury done to the Comfort & feelings of the Parent.  Mr Jervis leading Counsel for the Deft. whom I afterwards saw acknowledged himself perfectly satisfied with the verdict.  Said it was the exact sum he would himself have given.  Came out of Court about 7 o Clock but returned to Linley Wood that night.

Saturday 22 July 1809

At home.  Engaged with Houghton &c.

Diary of Mary Caldwell 

22nd July 1809, Saturday
Set out with my Aunt to Tenby; got to Birmingham. J. Lawrence supped with us at gt Hotel. 

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 23 July 1809

Do

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday in Tenby

23rd July 1809, Sunday
Went to chapel and dined with the Lawrences.

Diary of James Caldwell

Monday 24 July 1809

At Stone attending Select Committee.  This Evening they finished the Hay Harvest.

Diary of Mary Caldwell on holiday in Worcester

24th July 1809, Monday
To Worcester, a most agreeable looking town, to Malvern, a most beautiful place; took a monotonous walk above the inn.

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 25 July 1809

Do.  Returned late to dinner.  In the Evening the Rev Mr Jones from Nantwich.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

25th July 1809, Tuesday
Through Ross and Monmouth to [MUstre?] the view of Monmouth very delightful with the Wye running through it but the scenery not so grand as I expected. No fine mountains and rocks.

Diary of James Caldwell

Wednesday 26 July 1809

At home.  Engaged with Do.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

26th July 1809, Wednesday
Through Newport and Cardiff to Cowbridge, from Cardiff went to see Caerphilly Castle and found to our cost how grandly travelers can talk; it is very large but has no other striking point about it. A delightful ride by moonlight. Some agreeable internal reflections shall we ever be able to visit that beautiful orb? &c-

Diary of James Caldwell

Thursday 27 July 1809

At Burslem.  Mr Sparrow[?] dined.  In the Afternoon Rev Tho[?] Hill relative to the reference of the matters in dispute between him & Mr Heathcote.  Long conversation &c &c

Diary of Mary Caldwell

27th July 1809, Thursday
Went to Ryle and to see the Orangery at Morgan, the finest in the Kingdom. The original trees were brought over as a present from Queen Elizabeth and were wrecked upon this coast. Lord Mansell took one of them intending to restore them but the Queen made him a present of them. The fruit ripens perfectly well and is very good. Went to Neath and to see Britton Ferry, Lord Runcorn's[?]. How I hate to be in a mess that should make me shrink from a King.

Diary of James Caldwell

[Page 29]

1809 July

Friday 28 July 1809

At home.  Perusing papers left by Mr Hill.  Considering the Case.  Drawing out long Observations &c &c.  Greatest part of the day.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

28th July 1809, Friday
By Pontardulais, Carmarthen to St Clears.

Diary of James Caldwell

Saturday 29

To Mr Gilberts to have spoken to him on this business but I could not meet with him.  Afterwards at Mr Hills Colliery, viewing the premises, & making Enquiries.  Mr Wood, E Wood & Mr Tho Wedgwood dined & with whom engaged in the afternoon.

Diary of Mary Caldwell

29th July 1809, Saturday
Over the sands from Langhame to Tenby. I do not think the ports of South Wales that I have travelled through near to beautiful as North; there is none of that wildness, you are never out of sights of the habitations of men, nor is there a single point so striking that I can completely; it is a beautifully cultivated country; but far from a romantic one. A terrible wet expedition over the sands. I could not quite divest myself of anxiety when I set out but this soon vanished and it seemed perfectly safe.

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 30 July 1809

At home.  Service performed by Houghton.  Rejoice with those that rejoice & weep with those that weep.  Sensible, practical, & eloquent discourse.  In the evening Moses[?] Heath & his Brother on Mr Hills business with Letters &c

Diary of Mary Caldwell

30th July 1809, Sunday
Went to the sea and shore. Happy but not gay. This is a beautiful place; it has the advantage of the full sea joined to a beautiful range of rocks, the lights and shades upon which made the scene constantly changing. Mrs [Grovel?], Mr, Mrs and Miss Evans called. [page B151]

Q'non doit prendre garde de ne pas faire tout a son prochain; alors on vite la puiduce d'une cote and les rongeurs [voyeurs?] dis autres.

Diary of James Caldwell

Monday 31 July 1809

At home.  Houghton &c &c.  Particularly engaged considering Case & drawing Observations in the matter of Hill & Heathcote

Diary of Mary Caldwell

31st July 1809, Monday
Mr [Muibel?] in his Traite d'Anatomie et de Physiologie Vegetales observes upon the characteristic differences between animals and vegetables, "that plants alone have a power of deriving nourishment, though not indeed, exclusively, from inorganic matter; mere earths, salts or airs, substances certainly incapable of serving as food for any animal, the latter only feeding on what is or has been organized matter, either of a vegetable or animal nature. So that is should seem to be the office of vegetable life alone to transform dead matter into organized living bodies." Smiths Introduction to Botany.

Diary of James Caldwell

August

Tuesday 1^st August 1809

Trentham with Elizabeth & Eliza but did not see Lord & Lady Stafford who were not at Trentham.  Engaged again on Hill & Heathcote business.  Houghton &c

Wednesday 2 August 1809

At the Hollins.  Conversation with Mr Johnson relative to the matter of Hill & Heathcote.  Various Enquiries &c.  In the Evening Mr Harvey.

Thursday 3 August 1809

At Talk on the Hill.  Engaged all day on the Reference.  Sr John Heathcote, Mr Heathcote, Messrs Harvey, Tomlinson, Harding & Self with various other persons.  Made sundry arrangements for proceeding in the Business.

Friday 4 August 1809

Elizabeth & I at Newcastle.  Stoney fields.  Etruria.  Taking Mr Harvey to Newcastle who there left us.  Returned to dinner late.

Saturday 5 August 1809

Eliza & Ann took Mr Houghton & his little girl to Nantwich. Engaged at home on various papers &c 

Diary of Mary Caldwell

5th August 1809, Saturday
A very fine rough sea which I watched the whole of the day. It must be the constant variety which keeps up the attention so long and the immensity of the sea and the regular and unconstrained dashing of the waves over which man seems to have no power and which seem as if they would ebb and flow to all eternity elevate the mind and fill it with a religious calm, though surrounded by tempests; which is one of the most delightful sensations of which the mind is capable.

Il n'y a que la verite qui pusmade meme sans avoir besoin de pacoitre avec toutes ses preaves.

Diary of James Caldwell

[Page 30]

1809 August

Sunday 6 August 1809

At home.  In the house all day.  Reading &c &c.  In the evening Eliza & Ann returned.

Monday 7

At home

Tuesday 8 August 1809

At Newcastle Races.  Dined at the Ordinary.  In the Evening at the Ball.  Marchioness of Stafford, Lady Charlotte, Sir Oswald Moseley & Macdonald &c &c.  The most marked & pleasing attention shown by Lady S &c to the whole of our domestic party.  Returned home with Eliza.

Wednesday 9 August 1809

Do Do.  In the Evening at the play.  Returned home.

Thursday 10 August 1809

 Do Do.  Stamford set off to Manchester 

Friday 11 August 1809

At home.  In the Evening Rev Mr Yates of Liverpool Mr A Yates & Houghton arrived.  Pleasant Evening & much Conversation.

Saturday 12 August 1809

Do.  Mr Yates & his Son left us.  Engaged with Houghton &c &c

Sunday 13 August 1809

Do.  Mr Thomas Gorton dined, Service having been previously performed by Houghton.  Macclesfield Brewery &c much Conversation about.

Monday 14 August 1809

Engaged in the Morning with John Martin of Cockshead who came to survey the Colliery in But Lane in dispute between Sir J Heathcote & Mr Hill.  Stamford returned out of Lancashire in the Morning & set of to Buxton.

Tuesday 15 August 1809

At home.  Houghton &c.

Wednesday 16 August 1809

Do Do

Thursday 17 August 1809

At Betley dining with Mr Tollet.  Richard Heathcote &c

Friday 18 August 1809

At Burslem with Houghton.  All morning & engaged particularly with him in the Evening previous to his departure the following Morning.  Stamford returned.  H Holland

Saturday 19 August 1809

Houghton left us leaving under our Care his little Girl.  At Newcastle Meeting Mr D Whalley relative to Handford Mill & Navig Co.

Sunday 20 August 1809

At home.  H Holland

[Page 31]

1809 

Monday 21 August 1809

Stamford again at Buxton & returned to dinner.

Tuesday 22 August 1809

At Maer Hall

Wednesday 23 August 1809

Do

Thursday 24 August 1809

Returned home to dinner

Friday 25 August 1809

At home.  Letter writing &c

Saturday 26 August 1809

Mr Boughey, Mr L Armistead, Miss Fletcher & Miss Powys dined with whom engaged.

Sunday 27 August 1809

Mr B & Mr A left us.  Rev Tho[?] Hill dined with whom engaged on the business of Hill & Heathcote.  Long consultation & Conversation.

Monday 28 August 1809

The Ladies left us.  Engaged on Hill & Heathcote.  Writing various Letters &c

Tuesday 29 August 1809

Engaged again on Do.  Lord & Lady Stafford called and engaged us to dine on

Saturday next at Trentham.  Their behaviour throughout marked with the greatest kindness & politeness

Wednesday 30 August 1809

At home

Thursday 31 August 1809

At Newcastle Brewery

September 

Friday 1^st September 1809

At Burslem

Saturday 2 September 1809

At Trentham dining at Lord Staffords, Elizabeth Eliza Stamford & Self.  Mr R Payn Knight.

Sunday 3 September 1809

At home

Monday 4 September 1809

Do Do

Tuesday 5 September 1809

At Stone.  Meeting of Select Committee.

Wednesday 6 September 1809

Went from Stone with Mr Sparrow of Bishton to Shugborough looking over Stock of Lord Anson selling off this day by auction.  Returned in the evening. 

Thursday 7 September 1809

At Newcastle on various matters: Brewery Assigng of Mr Barrows[?] Share to Mr W Bent &c.  Dined at W Bents with Mr Thomas Fenton

Friday 8 September 1809

At home.  Engaged on various matters

Saturday 9 September 1809

Do Do    In the Evening Messrs Harvey & Sheridan from Lane End relative to Arrears of Taxes in the hands of the Collector for the Liberty of Longton & advising thereon, when the matter being of great urgency I promised to see them again tomorrow at the Roebuck Newcastle.  Also engaged on the business of the Colliery Reference Hill & Heathcote.    

Sunday 10 September 1809

At Newcastle Meeting a Deputation from Lane end Mr Snape &c on the above business.  From thence to Mr Thomas Fentons.  Dined.  Mr Spode & T Sparrow.

Monday 11 September 1809

At home.  Engaged in making Alterations in the Ground in the front of the House.  Also engaged with the workmen relative to the Reference Hill & Heathcote which indeed for several days past had taken up much time & attention.

Tuesday 12 September 1809

At home.  Engaged on various matters

Wednesday 13 September 1809

Do Do

Thursday 14 September 1809

At Etruria to dinner

Friday 15 September 1809

Do Burslem

Saturday 16 September 1809

: Do Mr Tomlinson Knypersly Mortgage &c

Sunday 17 September 1809

In the Morning returned home.  John[?] & W Bent

Monday 18 September 1809

At home

Do Unwell

A prompt, fluent, correct, unembarrassed & unaffected mo[de] of speech is the most pleasing and ornamental of all accomplishments [This line crossed out]

In every free state, Eloquence is the principal medium of Government, and the most direct and honourable road to rank, power and reputation and even to those who do not wish to take an active part in the politics of jurisprudence of the times, a prompt, fluent, correct & unembarrassed and unaffected use speech is the most pleasing and ornamental of all accomplishments; and has ever been esteemed from the days of Homer to the present, the most infallible criterion that can distinguish a Gentleman.  In languages so irregularly constructed as our own, this can only be acquired, perhaps, by accustoming our thoughts to flow through purer channels; in which every distinct operation of mind, or mode of thinking, has its distinct vehicle of expression, and every deviation from just order in our thoughts, an immediate and obvious corrective in a correspondent deviation from the established mode of speech.

Edinburgh Review July 1809 p.430

Tuesday 19 September 1809

At home.  Unwell

Wednesday 20^th September 1809

Do

Thursday 21

At Betley Hall.  Engaged with Mr Tollet & Mr Harding on the Talke Colliery Business.  Staid to dinner.

Friday 22 September 1809

At Burslem.  Relative to Agreement entered into with Messrs Turton & Co for supply of the Manufactory with Coals, having determined to stop the Engine in consequence of the ill behaviour of Gallimore &c.

Saturday 23 September 1809

At Newcastle on various matters.  Making arrangement with Mr W Kinnersly relative to the payment into their hands of the Money on Mortgage of Knypersley Estate & investment of it in the 5 p Cents.  Brewery &c &c

Sunday 24: At home.  

[Page 34]

1809 Sepr

[Monday] 25 September 1809

At Stone attending Committee Meeting.

Tuesday 26 September 1809

Do General Assembly. Returned in the Evening.

Wednesday 27 September 1809

 Set off to Liverpool with W Bent proposing to spend a week or ten days on the Brewery Affairs & to take the benefit of bathing in the warm sea baths.

Thursday 28

At Liverpool. Brewery  &c. Dined at R Bents.

Friday 29 September 1809

Do Do Do

Saturday 30 September 1809

Bent, Powys's, Slater &c at the Star & Garter

October

Sunday 1^st October 1809

Do W & R Bent & self attended service at Mr Yates' Chapel. Afterwards dined at Eton.

Monday 2 October 1809

Engaged at Brewery.

Tuesday 3 October 1809

W Bent this morning imparted to me the distressing intelligence of the accident which had happened on Sunday last to Mr John Wedgwood little Caroline, & my own dear Girl Anne by their being thrown out of a Gig on their return from Hanley Church. I soon afterwards received a Letter from my beloved wife, with a favourable Account but I determined to set off as soon as possible the next morning it being too late to admit of my getting to Etruria this day in any reasonable time

Letter to Mrs Elizabeth Caldwell from James Caldwell

re Caroline Wedgwood and his daughter Ann being thrown out of a gig when returning from Hanley Church. Ann got a broken arm and possibly a rib. Caroline Wedgwood had more serious injuries.

Mrs Caldwell

John Wedgwood Esq

Etruria

Staffordshire

Liverpool, Tuesday 3^rd Oct[?], 1809

Mr Bent kindly spared me till five minutes before the arrival of the Post this morning the intelligence which you have with so much tenderness and kindness, my beloved Eliza, communicated.

My first impulse, as you may easily imagine, was that of immediately joining you that I might take my full share in the painful and trying circumstances under which you are placed, but on taking a little time for recollection and finding that as it is now Noon, I could not possibly reach Etruria at any reasonable hour. I have determined, however great the effort, to remain here today, and set off as early as possible in the morning so that you may depend upon seeing me in the course of the day.

Mr Bent makes his arrangements so to accompany me home and I know not that I have ever given you a stronger proof of that implicit confidence which I repose, than by this delay, as nothing but the full and long proved experience that you will never deceive me by too favourable representations on occasions like these could have kept me from you and home[?]

The first shock of the intelligence was as you may well believe, [severe?] but in gratitude that things are not worse, I hope that I have composed myself as much as could be reasonably expected and that you will find me prepared for whatever painful feelings await me. Express to the sufferers about you my tenderest sympathy and deep concern for what has befallen them.

Then on occasions in which it is in vain to endeavour to describe what one fails, nor would like it if [hole in letter] avail. How thankful ought we to be that our dear Mary was not even a witness of the accident. My sweet Ann does not surprise me by the satisfaction which she expresses at her [injuries?] she suffers [other?] than her sister. It is like herself and adding a tenfold interest to her misfortune.

It is useless to write more. I hardly know indeed what I have written but I thought it best at all events to apprize you of my plans. For ourselves, my sweet, my kind and affectionate friend and wife, we can only indulge the gratifying thought that by the full and tender participation of affection we can alleviate in some manner at least [Calarenc?] misfortune. Distress in whatever forms prescribed [hord?] find one unfailing source of thankfulness to God, for having first united and long procured us to ourselves and to our beloved children.

Say everything they that is most kind and sympathizing from me to Mr Wedgwood and belive me with a force of feeling that never can be expressed ever your most grateful and tenderly affectionate husband. James Caldwell

Wednesday 4 October 1809

Left Liverpool and arrived at Linley Wood to dinner from thence I immediately proceeded to Etruria, & had the great joy to find my dear Girl free from danger though much injured by the Fall her arm being broken & as is supposed a Rib also; with a contusion on the face. Mrs W. also free from danger but in great pain from a violent blow on the head. Little Caroline severely hurt on the head & face.

[Page 35]

1809

Thursday 5 October 1809

Returned to Linley Wood leaving the Sufferers going on well.

Friday 6 October 1809

At Etruria again. All going on well, but much apprehension entertained that  Caroline would retain marks of the Accident in her face & that the elevating muscles of the Eye had now separated.

Saturday 7 October 1809

Again at Etruria & back. Going on well.

Sunday 8 October 1809

At home. Service etc.

Monday 9 October 1809

At Etruria & back.

Tuesday 10 October 1809

:Do. Do At Newcastle on various matters

Wednesday 11 October 1809

At home. In the morning engaged with Mr Harding on the business of Hill & Heathcote previous to the arbitration appointed for tomorrow.  Mr Harvey came to dinner with them engaged. Ann came from Nantwich.  Mr Holland also at dinner.

Thursday 12 October 1809

Mr Tollet and Mr Hill. Afterwards engaged all day at Talke on the arbitrat[io]n.  After much investigation & discussion agreed upon general principles of an award likely to be beneficial & satisfactory to all Parties.

Friday 13 October 1809

Engaged in the Morning with Mr Harvey drawing up mem[oran]dum relative to award who afterwards left Linley Wood.

Saturday 14 October 1809

Took Eliza to Etruria. Found the Sufferers going on well. Anns arm had been set on Thursday. From Etruria to Newcastle & commenced annual settlem[en]t of Books &c on which closely engaged all day. Deliv[ere]d to W B Holroyd Case & Opinion D Giles' Agreement not to discuss &c.

Sunday 15 October 1809

W Bent, Mr Hill, & Mr Gorton & John Bent dined at Linley Wood.  Also Mr Hill, with whom long Conversation on the Colliery business and who expressed himself highly satisfied with what the arbitration had done

Monday 16 October 1809

At Etruria again. Saw Mrs Wedgwood for the first time.  Ret[urne]d to dinner.

Tuesday 17 October 1809

At Newcastle early. Engaged closely in the counting house all day on annual Settlem[en]t of Brewery Accounts & till late at night. Slept at Stoneyfields.

Wednesday 18 October 1809

Do Do all morning. Afterwards at Etruria & from thence home  to dinner. Ann walked out a little for the first time.

Thursday 19 October 1809

At Fenton meeting Mr Tollet and looking over his farm & from thence to Alsager looking over the farm & advising with Mr Tollet as to the future Letting of it. Mr Tollet with Messrs Wedgwood & Jos. Wedgwood dined.

Friday 20 October 1809

At Etruria. All going on well.  Brought Eliza back to dinner.

Saturday 21 October 1809

At home. Engaged on the farm relative to sundry Improvements proposed to be made, Irrigation &c &c

Sunday 22 October 1809

At home. Service as usual. 

Monday 23 October 1809

Do Captain James Bent dined.

Tuesday 24 October 1809

At Stoney fields with Stamford dining with W Bent

Wednesday 25 October 1809

At Newcastle attending the Mayor & Corporation to Church on occasion of the Jubilee & afterwards dined at the Roebuck

Thursday 26 October 1809

At Basford calling on Rich[ar]d Bent; from there to Trentham calling upon Mr Macdonald with whom long Conversation on various subjects.  On my return found Stamford very unwell having suffered greatly from the Extraction of a tooth.

[Page 37]

1809 October

Friday 27 October 1809

Stamford very unwell prevented dining at Basford ------[?] and unfit for his setting off to London tomorrow as he had intended & which was very desirable for him to have done. In the Evening at Newcastle attending the assembly.

Saturday 28 October 1809

Engaged on the farm sundry intended Improvements.

Sunday 29 October 1809

At home.  Service. John Bent dined.

Monday 30 October 1809

Do Engaged on the farm & various matters.

Tuesday 31 October 1809

.  At Alsager looking over the Farm with Mr Jackson & others previous to entering into a Treaty with him for a Lease of it. In the Evening engaged examining Kinnersly's & other Accounts.

November 1809

Wednesday 1^st November 1809

At home engaged on the farm &c &c                                                      

Thursday 2 November 1809

At Talk on the Hill Meeting Mr John Martin and Mr Thomas Heath relative to the terms of an agreement between Sir Heathcote & Mr Hill for the Coals being got by the former.  From thence to Etruria. On my return found Mr Wood with whom Engaged.  Planted this day ----[?] at the corner of the Hollins field.  Stakes 7 feet high.

Friday 3 November 1809

Mr Wood left us after breakfast. Engaged on the farm & the conveying of the water out of old Linley Lane into the farm yard for the purpose of irrigation which work had been begun a day or two ago by J Harrison. In the forenoon Houghton arrived and before dinner my beloved Ann was once more restored to us & got home without much suffering.

Saturday 4 November 1809

At  home. Engaged with Houghton, Farm &c

[Page 38]

1809

Sunday 5 November 1809

At home.  Service performed by Houghton.  Mr Skerrett arrived from Nantwich.

Monday 6 November 1809

Engaged with Mr Skerrett looking over Alsager Estate.  Mr Stevens came to dinner.

Tuesday 7 November 1809

At Stone attending Meeting of Select Committee

Wednesday 8 November 1809

Do  Returned to dinner

Thursday 9 November 1809

Do  Engaged on the farm superintending various matters.  Accounts &c

Friday 10 November 1809

Do Unwell: but engaged on farm &c

Saturday 11 November 1809

At Newcastle on various matters, Brewery &c  Returned to dinner.    

Sunday 12 November 1809

At home.  Service as usual

Monday 13 November 1809

Do.  Engaged on farm &c &c.  Mr Stevens. 

Tuesday 14 November 1809

At Burslem relative to Colliery Concerns & intended purchase of Gallimores Land.  Returned to dinner.  Mr Skerrett Mr R Skerrett & the two Mr Jacksons. Agreed with the latter for Lease for 9 yrs of Alsager Estate in the holding of M & W Ashmore at £385 clear.   The morning my dear wife set off with our interesting & suffering Girl Mary to London accompanied by Hannah.  God grant that the result may be prosperous, & one heavy load by which my friend[?] has been long oppressed, be removed!

Wednesday 15 November 1809

At home.  Engaged in various matters.

Thursday 16 November 1809

At Newcastle.  Talk on the Hill Reference.  Brewery Concern &c &c  At night Snow.

Friday 17 November 1809

At home.  Engaged on the farm.  Reading &c.  Mrs John Wedgwood & Mrs Jos Wedgwood dined on their return from Liverpool.

Letter from James Caldwell to Elizabeth Caldwell

Mrs Caldwell

No. 44 Margaret Street

Cavendish Square

London

Linley Wood, 17^th November 1809.

In the first place, my beloved Eliza, let me thank you for your kind and considerate remembrance in giving me such early and comfortable intelligence of your journey, about which I could not but feel a good deal of anxiety, though the weather was certainly as favourable as at this time of the year could be reasonably expected.

I hope and trust everything will continue to go on well with you on this interesting expedition, and that I shall ere long receive a comfortable account of our dear girl, who with yourself, are the two [ideas?] here always uppermost in my mind. We are going on here very well and every one of our daughters seems on the alert to make me as little as possible sensible of your absence. They are indeed very good, and I think exactly what one ought and wish them.

Just as we were going to dinner yesterday, the two Mrs Wedgwoods drove up to the door on their return from Liverpool, and seemed much to enjoy taking a part of our family dinner. Mr Paske has I understand a favourable opinion of poor Bessy’s case, and Mrs Jos. Wedgwood takes her there again, in about a fortnight. They were only at Liverpool one day and did not see the Ladies from Eton, but Mr Jos. Wedgwood dined there with the Doctor. In your next letter I hope you will be able to give me some account of Stamford, and that his situation promises the advantages which he hoped to desire from it.

If there be any thing material perhaps he will write a line himself; though I can easily conceive that the whole of his time is fully taken up. If he proposes going into another Office on the expiration of his year with Mr Bradby, I think Mr Abbots the most eligible that he could have solicited.

Anne continues to go on well, though she felt sensibly the severe cold of the frost. It has set in again here last night, but has not affected her so much. Indeed she is gaining ground every day as fast as can be reasonably hoped or expected, and will I trust be soon restored to perfect health and happiness. In spite of myself, I cannot help already beginning to anticipate the happy moment of our reunion, and to which I look, my beloved Eliza, with a tenderness and fondness, that I should in vain endeavour to express, but which you I trust will not be disposed to blame.

Age, may mellow, indeed, but believe me, it can never chill the love and friendship to which I bear you. Remembrance of the past would close [wax seal hole] the fire and preserve it in unabating warmth, ours is no common attachment, and will know neither decline nor change. Pray take all possible care of yourselves and regard nothing but making your anxious and interesting situation as easy and light as possible.

When you can want a recruit in your finances let me know, and do not let any consideration of this kind interfere with any advice or other step whatever that it may [offer, offend?] you even in imagination only a satisfaction to take. This I now charge you not on your obedience my beloved wife but as another proof of your confidence and affection.

In consequence of your sister’s message I have spoke to Thomas and agreed with him again. He behaved very well and said that his wages did not allow him to save anything at all and keep himself so neat as he wished. I fixed eighteen pounds for the ensuing year, which I hope you sister will approve, and if he continues to give her satisfaction perhaps she will not object to the Guineas for the year following that.

You will be glad to hear that I have let the Alsager Estate to Mr Jackson to my satisfaction. Mr Skerrett came with him the day you left and we soon settled the business. He takes both Michd farm and Cashmores, and will I dare say prove a comfortable tenant. You may mention this to Stamford.

Thank you my dear wife, for you kind remembrance of us in the [Larks?]. What a valuable thing is real love in having the power to impart even to trifles the means of giving happiness. Farewell, the paper is done and as I cannot read, so I shall not attempt to write cross ways.

All the dear girls unite with me in everything most kind and affectionate to yourself and beloved Mary and your sister, not forgetting Stamford.

Pray write to me immediately, every and more than ever your own,

James Caldwell

Diary of James Caldwell

Saturday 18 November 1809

Do  Accounts &c

Sunday 19 November 1809

Do Service.  W Bent dined.  In speaking of the ale which had gone bad at Liverpool he supposed the -------[?] might have been occasioned by the Temperature in the process having exceeded 60 degrees of which a disposition to go hard is the consequence.

[Page 39]

1809 November

Monday 20 November 1809

At Newcastle.  Kinnersly.  W Bent & J Smith & others relative to the dispute between the Corporation of Newcastle & the Parish respecting the workhouse.  Inspecting vestry Books &c when I promised to attend a Meeting in the Town hall on Friday next.  Martin.  Fine Wood & Caldwell

Tuesday 21 November 1809

 At home.  Began the diversion of But Lane water course in order to irrigate part of the Land late Mrs Johnsons.  Captain Bent & Edward Crompton came to shoot, dined & staid all night.  Martin of Cockshead relative to Talk Reference &c &c

Wednesday 22 November 1809

At home.  Engaged writing &c &c

Thursday 23 November 1809

At Burslem Bycars Colliery &c &c.  Received on my Return Draft of Award in the Talk Reference.  Letter to Mr Harding thereon.

Friday 24 November 1809

At Newcastle attending Vestry Meeting & afterwards Meeting of the Corporation on the Workhouse business when the same was finally & amicably settled.  Money wanted for Improvements & Repairs to be raised by a Levy & a Loan to be granted by the Corporation for a term of 99 yrs at £10 P: Annum Rent.  Returned to dinner.

Saturday 25 November 1809

At home.  Letter writing &c

Letter from James Caldwell at Linley Wood to Eliza Caldwell, 25 Nov 1809

Letter to Mrs Caldwell

No.44Margaret Street

Cavendish Square

London

I do not know, my beloved Eliza, that I ever felt more depressed than on reading your letter, which arrived only by the last nights Post though it appears to have been written on Wednesday. The still greater uncertainty in which it seemed to leave the case of our sweet girl, came like a heavy cloud across my mind, and darkened at once all those pleasing hopes, which I have of late so fondly cherished of her speedy and entire recovery.

The gloom, however, was happily, in some measure dissipated, by the better account which her letter to Ann conveyed, but deeply anxious indeed shall I remain till I hear from you again, and learn more particularly the opinion of Dr Bayley; who I can only trust and hope, may on a second visit, see reason to retain the favourable one which he seems to have expressed.

On these unhappy occasions, one thinks, and hopes, and at last believes, that every care and caution have been used, and yet how necessary is it to account nothing done, whilst any thing remains that can be done, and to sound the depths even of possibility itself? We may declaim against anxiety so much as we please, but how rarely in human affairs can it justly be accounted error. And how often does it not prove the source of safety? How thankful ought we in the present instance to be, that the opinions of Mr A and Dr B have been taken; if for no other reason at least, for the satisfaction of reflecting that nothing that the extremist caution could suggest has been neglected.

I do, however, now feel satisfied that every aid that human skill can supply will be afforded; and we have only therefore humbly to hope and fervently to pray that its efforts may finally be successful. As to my own opinion, for which you ask, it is to adopt whatever plan Dr Bayley may advise, and place implicit confidence in him. It is an additional satisfaction to find that there is some coincidence in his opinion and Mr [Luranorus?].

I need not, I am sure repeat it to you to disregard all thought and consideration of expense in whatever form it may present itself, and in your stay in London, must I find be frustrated, I can only enjoin you to employ every means, not only of rendering it efficacious for the great end in [brew?], but as far as circumstances will admit, most comfortable and happy. This longer separation, I shall indeed myself most sensibly feel; but you and I, dear friend and partner of my heart, have not now the lesson to learn of losing all consideration of ourselves in the dearer interests of our beloved children.

You would receive a letter this morning from Eliza which I much fear might excite some uncomfortable feelings. It would be affectation to deny that the subject to which it principally relates, not only surprised but [hole in letter] me so much indeed that two half written [wax rip in letter] [hole in letter] thrown into the fire; so little had I the f- [hole in letter] expressing myself to my own satisfaction. Present circumstances, however, seem to have put the matter beyond question, and therefore I will dismiss it without further observation, leaving to you however, entire discretion to do what you think best.Stamford little knows what moments he costs me, in subjecting me to the painful struggle [‘between’ crossed out] when judgment compels me to restrain the will to meet all his wishes. I tremble only lest he should deceive himself.

But of this no more. This is a time, only beloved wife, when your mind should be soothed and comforted instead of being agitated; and I am half disposed at the moment to let this letter have the fate of those that should have preceded it. Be assured that we are going on here as well as you yourself could wish.

It is impossible for me to do justice to the unremitting and minute attention which all these dear girls shew to whatever they think can in any way contribute to my ease and comfort; and I believe it would to them be the highest of all rewards to know how deeply and sensibly I feel all their sweet solicitudes, and how they gratify and delight my heart.

Ann keeps going on well; but I have some little fear for the perfect straightness of her arm. It can be nothing however of the smallest consequence. Indeed as the swelling is not entirely subsided, it is impossible to judge with certainty. I must however conclude, and yet I seem to have said nothing, at least compared to what I seemed to have to say, when I began to write.

Prey let me hear from you by the return of the Post from the receipt of one letter to the arrival of another time clings with me with a heavy and leaden pace.

Farewell, accept in one word all that my heart can dictate, or yours can wish to receive. Give all our best and kindest love and remembrances to our dear dear girl, to your sister andStamford, and ever, ever my beloved wife, regard me as your faithful and most tenderly affectionate husband.

James Caldwell

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 26 November 1809

Do  Service.  Edward Crompton came to dinner

Monday 27 November 1809

At Alsager with Mr Samuel Jackson arranging various matters between him & Michael Ashmore as to ploughing &c.  Mr A to plow & sow wheat & be paid for the former & allowed half the latter.  Inspecting Cottages & settling with the Tenants as to their continuing in possession &c   Mr Stevens.  In the Evening Musick.

[Page 40]                                                                                                                                                                

1809 Novemr

Tuesday 28 November 1809

At home.  Engaged all Morning with Mr John Martin of Cockshead on the business of the Talk on the Hill Colliery examining Plan &c & settling the terms proper to be acceded to by Mr Hill in case the Coals are to be got by Mr Heathcote.  Mr Blunt & John came to dinner & staid all night.

Wednesday 29 November 1809

At home.  Engaged with the Revd John[?] Hill who came to Linley Wood on the Reference of the Talk Business for part of the Morning

Thursday 30

At Burslem.  Various matters.  In the Evening Mr Harding of Betley in order to accompany me in the morning to Sandon.

December

Friday 1^st December 1809

At Sandon meeting Mr Harvey on Reference, and closely engaged all day & till a few minutes before 12 at night when we executed 2 parts of our Award

Saturday 2 December 1809

Returned home to dinner.  Mr Wood, with whom engaged in the Colliery dispute with Gallimores &c. perusing statement of Evidence &c &c & consulting on this business.

Sunday 3 December 1809

At home.  Mr Wood staid to dinner.  Service.

Letter from James to Eliza Caldwell

Mrs Caldwell

No.44 Margaret Street

Cavendish Square

London

Linley Wood, 3^rd December 1809

It was my full intention my beloved Eliza, to have written a few lines to you yesterday, but having only returned in the afternoon from Sandon, where I had been most laboriously employed the whole of the preceding day, as well as that morning, on the reference between Mr Hill and Mr Heathcote and Mr Wood (who is still here coming to dinner) I could not bring it in; and I was the less solicitous about it, as I found that Eliza was writing.

Inclosed is a Bank Post Bill for ten pounds, and the sinister half of another for twenty. The other half I will send you by the first letter that goes from Linley Wood. When you want more let me know, and remember my former injunctions. You may well suppose, that we shall all wait with the greatest anxiety and impatience for your next letter, which will I trust bring us a good account of Mr Home’s second attempt.

It is grievous that it shall be necessary to repeat the operation; but let us profit by the hope that is afforded us that our endeavours will ultimately be crowned with success, and the happy circumstance that the pain and suffering of our dear, dear girl was not greater. It would, indeed, be a heartfelt satisfaction to me to see you all, though but for a few minutes.

Of my thoughts, I need not say, that you have full possession; and in my dreams you are indeed all before me.

You will be glad to hear, that I have brought this Talk Reference to an end; Mr Harvey and I having executed our Award about six minutes before twelve o’clock Friday night; that being the last hour that was allowed us. Mr Harvey was most particular in his enquiries after, and expressions of kindness towards you all, and seems sincerely desirous for further communication with us. He had not a single unpleasant word through the whole discussion, though it certainly was one of the most perplexing harassing and arduous matters that I ever was engaged in.

I am going to Stone on Tuesday, to attend a Select Committee meeting, and shall be detained there that, and the following day. Most unfortunately Mr Wedgwood has fixed Tuesday for coming to Linley Wood; so that I shall [ton?] so much of the company of our good and kind friends, but hope they will make it up by a protracted stay.

Early in the next week I must go to Nantwich on the old business between Sir Rd[Richard?] Broughton, Mr Penlington and Mr Salmon; which, bad as the Talk business has been, will, I fear, so far as relates to me at least be only passing (to use a homely expression) from the frying pan into the fire. However, I must make the best of it; and when this matter is ended, I do seriously intend to close any Books; and look a little more to my own comfort, and a little less to the interests and concerns of other people.

It will please you to know that on the Talk business I accomplished every thing to my entire wish and satisfaction; and believe that substantial justice has been done to all parties; but whether this is what will exactly satisfy them; I neither know, nor care so far as relates to myself. Every day’s experience proves to me the wise and good sense of the Fable of the Painter, who in endeavouring to please everybody, pleased nobody; and if it were left to [me] to infuse into the minds of men, what would most of [hole in letter] a hindrance to their interests, as well as happiness, it would be a few additional drops of common candour.

A simple and unexpensive prescription, my beloved Eliza, but such as, if in worldly matters there be a Panacea, will be found to contain it. I will not ask you to write to me immediately because I know, that the pleasure of writing to and receiving each others letters is completely reciprocal. Tell my dearest Mary to accept my tenderest love and sympathy and that I hail the moment, when she will sing to me again with an interest that it has never yet possessed, the song that is often vibrating in my ears, and on every string on my heart “Cease thy Anguish, Smile Once More.” To see her indeed, wear again the smile of perfect health and happiness will be a bliss that however fondly I hope to experience, I should vainly endeavour to express.

Of your dear good girls at Linley Wood, I cannot say too much. They gain on my affection any approbation, and esteem, as circumstances [could?] to develop their understanding and their hearts. How blest, how unspeakably blessed are we in our dear children. How vain and empty is every other earthly good compared to this?

Farewell, dear and beloved mother of them, and may you long, long enjoy the fruits of these seeds of virtue and if happiness which you have sown in their hearts and which have hitherto so happily grown with their growth, and strengthened with their strength. Receive in one word, all that diverse the most tender and in friendship and esteem affection can distill. Our dear girls here join me in every fond and kind remembrance to all about you and believe me, that I truly am more and more, your own grateful and affectionate husband.

James Caldwell.

Diary of James Caldwell

Monday 4 December 1809

Do.  Engaged on various matters previous to going to Stone tomorrow.  Farm &c &c

Tuesday 5 December 1809

At Stone attending Select Committee Meeting.  Close day of business

Wednesday 6 December 1809

At Do. Returned home late to dinner & found Mr & Mrs John Wedgwood & their family who had come to spend a short time at Linley Wood

Thursday 7 December 1809

At home.  Farm.  Writing &c.  Mr Wedgwood &c

Friday 8 December 1809

Do Do Do Do

Saturday 9 December 1809

At Hanley meeting Col Sneyd & swearing in & enrolling volunteers to supply vacancies in the Local Militia.  Returned late to dinner.

Sunday 10 December 1809

At home.  Service as usual.

Monday 12 December 1809

This Morning Mr & Mrs Wedgwood left us: after which at Burslem with Eliza calling upon Mr & Mrs Brettell.  Returned to dinner.  Mr Stevens

[Page 41]

1809   Decemr

Tuesday 12 December 1809

At Newcastle Brewery.  Mr Smith Relative to Annuities & duties under the will of Mr Stamford &c &c

Wednesday 13 December 1809

At home.  Engaged on the farm.  Barker & Whitaker taking levels for improvements in the Water Meadow.  Mr Tollet also came.  In the afternoon heavy snow.

Thursday 14 December 1809

At home.  Engaged with papers &c previous to going to Nantwich tomorrow.

Friday 15 December 1809

At Nantwich.  Completion of Title of Moiety of Salt works to Sir Thomas Broughton.  Salmon & Penlington &c.  dinner & slept at Mr Skerretts

Saturday 16 December 1809

Do.  Dined in Dysart Buildings

Sunday 17 December 1809

Returned to dinner.  Could not get to see Mr G-------[?] till this Morning he being from home or engaged.  Made arrangement with him for completion of Title.  A Sufficient Sum to be retained in Sir Thomas Broughtons hands to indemnify against Annuities or the Annuities to be purchased in out of the purchase Money.

Monday 18 December 1809

In the night attacked with a sever rheumatic or as Mr Skerrett who I was obliged to send for, thought a gouty rheumatic attack in my Chest attended with great pain & difficulty of breathing.

Letter to Elizabeth Caldwell from James Caldwell. Post mark 20^th Dec 1809

Mrs Caldwell

No. 44 Margaret Street

Cavendish Square

London

Linley Wood, 18 December 1809

On my return home, my beloved Eliza, from Nantwich yesterday, I found your letter of the 14^th. The hope of meeting with me on my arrival, had cheered and animated my ride, which was otherwise uncomfortable enough, as I was on horseback and the roads are in the most miserable state.

That I may lose no time in sending the money you mention, I have procured a Note for £60 from Mr Kennerly which you will receive inclosed, and be kind enough to apply as follows, £25 to Stamford being in full of his Quarters allowance.

22.10 to your Sister being Mr Skerretts Interest, and the remaining Balance of 12.10 you will take to your own occasion letting me know when you have learnt the amount of Mr Home’s demand, what more you will want, and which you may be assured shall not only be most cheerfully, but gratefully sent.

And here, my beloved wife, would I willingly stop, nor fair you and my reply adanting[?] to that part of your letter which relates to Stamford’s advance and which he [implies, misplace?] his allowance, if I did not feel it to be my duty, not to conceal the surprise and regret which it has excited in my mind. After all that I have done and all that has so recently been settled on this subject of his Allowance, I must be excused if I say that I begin to feel something very like being trifled with or at least to apprehend that I never am to be at rest from the miserable harass of mind and spirits arising from being thus perpetually obliged to object to schemes and arrangements professing to have for their end the welfare and happiness of those I am most anxious to serve and to oblige, but the futility and increased [contempt, ?] of which it is impossible for me not to see, what indeed can I, or that could any man of common sense, foresight and discretion think of any plans which proceeds upon the idea of the whole of a years income being advanced and appropriated within 9 months or three fourth parts of the time?

As to laying on a stock of wine, I really am at a loss what to understand by this, unless I am to infer, that the same expensive course is to be pursued in London which was followed at Cambridge, I may at once prepare myself to endure as well as fear, the total loss of all comfort and ease or quiet or mind.

It signifies not, making us of words, as well I therefore agitate your mind or my own further than to say that £300 a year paid quarterly is all that my circumstances will admit of my allowing Stamford. That this too cannot be done without great inconvenience and privation on my part as well as some injustice to those who have equal claims with himself on my affections and my consideration and my kindness.

That circumstanced as I am I know it to be a truly liberal and bountiful allowance and such as perhaps not many fathers would make, and if therefore it is not sufficient to enable him to live entirely in the way that he may wish, it is his first duty to contract his plan, and square it to his means. He will do me great wrong if he thinks that any thing that I have said proceeds from anger. My sensation at this moment, and indeed of a very different cast; it is grievous in any case to find one’s utmost efforts still fall short of their aim; but fortunately so when they have for their object the contentment of those whose happiness as well as welfare it has been one unremitting endeavour to promote.

If you think proper to mention the subject to Stamford, I wish you to say only what you may yourself think right; without the smallest regard to what has fallen [hole in letter] me, further than what may be necessary (if he ig- [hole in letter] again be) to apprize him of his own real situation [hole in letter] mine. I have never yet deceived him by [hole in letter] fallacious hopes or expectations; and an only [hole in letter] he may not deceive himself by the indulgence of a [hole in letter].

The three girls dine today at Etruria and go from thence [hole in letter] Mrs Wedgwood to the Assembly: but I am myself un- [hole in letter] at home with our dear little [Lonis, Loris?]for my only companion. I shall wait with great anxiety and impatience for your next letter, from a kind of hope, that it may give us some intimation of the time of your return.

Happy indeed will be the moment when I shall again fold you to my heart for never was one animated by a more sincere and tender affection. Ann and Bessy will come here some day in the middle or later end of the Christmas week, but the particular one is not yet fixed. Mr Skerrett is not very well and talks of going to London ere long to consult Dr Bailey. They all desire me to send their kindest remembrances when I wrote, which I told them I should do today.

And here am I yet to the end of my paper, without one word to my dear dear Mary. She has not however been the less in my thoughts, to which she is indeed almost always present. Give my tenderest fondest love to her and tell her how delighted I shall be to escort her to the next Newcastle Ball: for which I hope she will be fully qualified both in health and spirits. What a Lady like appearance Emma would make on the road today! A carriage to herself with two servants?

Farewell dear friend and partner of my heart, remember me in the kindest manner to your sister and Stamford and think of me ever as your most tenderly affectionate and grateful husband.
James Caldwell

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 19 December 1809

Confined all day.  Men began this day the work in the water meadow.

Wednesday 20 December 1809

Do Do   Penlingtons Papers &c &c

Letter from James Caldwell at Linley Wood, 20^th Dec 1809

As we are sending away a parcel containing the Probates of the Wills &c which your Sister is in want of, I cannot let it go, without inclosing to you one line, if it be only in return for the kind and comfortable letter which I received from you last night. I do indeed begin now to indulge the best hopes for our beloved girl, though in a case so deeply interesting and where disappointment would be so bitter, I will not suffer them to become too sanguine.

When I wrote to you last I was pinioned to the armchair with the same kind of rheumatic, or as Mr Skerrett seems to think, gouty rheumatic attack, with which I was affected two or three years ago. Putting out of consideration the pain, however, which to own the truth was pretty severe, I dare say that I shall in the end be much better for it; and though I do not think it quite prudent to go out of door today, yet I have no doubt but that I shall be able to do it tomorrow with perfect safety. I really consider this attack as having come most opportunely for deeply should I have been mortified to have had you meet anything like sickness on your return or, indeed my beloved Eliza any other cloud to dim the happiness which you reappearance will diffuse amongst us.

It has besides afforded you girls an opportunity of trying their skill at amusing one; and at which I think they are just as good adepts as at other things. Louisa and I had it to ourselves the whole of Monday; but we got through incomparably well. I was so extremely well the two days that I passed at Nantwich that I could not help more than once suspecting it to be the insidious harbinger of some change. It is impossible, indeed, to be better than I am now, with the exception only of a little pain, and that is too trifling to notice.

Indeed, I should not have mentioned my indisposition at all if it had not been that you may always feel satisfied when you are away, that I conceal nothing from you, but give you a full true and particular account of everything and especially of what relates to me, who has so much reason to value himself, from the dear and gratifying idea which he is allowed to indulge of being valuable to you. I need not say how anxiously I shall wait for your next letter. Tell May, that [Canteb?] is in excellent order and good humor, and if he could know all, would I am sure feel proud in contributing his services towards the restoration of her health.

The girls seem to have enjoyed themselves much during their excursion and had a very pleasant assembly, which was fully attended, all theNewcastlepeople being there. I find that I am nominated Manager for the next with Mr Halsell, to my great delight as you will easily conceive! But as Mrs Powys has sent a very particular request that I would undertake it, I suppose it will not do to refuse particularly as things are circumstanced in respect of the Room. In the letter which I wrote on Monday, I hope you would not think that I expressed myself too strongly.

It certainly, my beloved Eliza, is in every account highly requisite and right, with say, indispensable to the future comfort of all, that the point to which it relates should be clearly and finally understood; and the door for ever shut, against the irksomeness of solicitation on the one part, and the pain of nonaquiescence on the other.

All that I could do, I have done, all that I am able to do,  I am willing to do, not only for his eventual welfare and success, but for his present comfort and engagements. The limit, however, which my own sense of rectitude and prudence prescribes, cannot, must not, ought not to be transgressed. It would be worse than folly, it would be injustice.

Economy, by which I intend not only the accommodation of expense to means but the judicious and considerate application of means to really useful ends, can do much [much crossing out of words here], is the duty of all, as is in all, respectable; if for no other reason, at least for this, that it constitutes the vital principle of genuine [more crossings out] independence.

Money, in any case, spent in non-essentials, is for the most part money thrown away; and I believe,non-essentials upon a fair investigation be found to amount to greatly more than may perhaps be imagined or allowed. Let me not however hazard the imputation of preaching or declaiming. I would rather wish to act like the skilful and judicious person whom you have had before your eye, and do in critical cases, can touch the morbid part with a concerned and gentle hand, but if [held he?] with that salutary firmness which may minister to it cure.

I conclude from what you say, that the money which I sent on Monday added to what you will receive from Mr Salt will meet all your occasions, should not you stay in London be protracted, otherwise, I would have sent you more herewith. I believe Ann is writing to Mary, so she will convey to her all the kind and tender remembrances of herself and her sisters. Give my dearest love to her, and ever, my beloved and valued wife and friend, ever think of and regard me as your most tender and affectionate and grateful husband, James Caldwell.

P.S. You must on no account forget to bring something for all these dear girls. Should your cash fall short, I suppose credit may for this purpose supply its place.

Diary of James Caldwell

Thursday 21 December 1809

Do  Walked out but unable to attend Navigation General Assembly at Wolseley Bridge, which I had appointed to do on Grand Union Canal business.

Friday 22 December 1809

Do  Mr William Penlington on their Affairs.

Saturday 23 December 1809

At Rode Heath looking at Land belonging to Messrs Penlington & Salmon wanted to be taken by Jas Massey for a Timber Yard & Wharf.

Sunday 24 December 1809

Do   Service &c.  Mr William Bent & Mr Rd Bent came to dinner & with whom engaged on Liverpool Brewery Affairs &c &c

[Page 42]

Monday 25 December 1809

At Talk on the Hill Chapel.  Delivered to Mr Hill the vouchers for Monies paid by him for the Engine & other matters in setting on foot the But Lane Colliery & also the Accounts of Coals got; being the papers which he had left with me the 29th Nov.

Letter from James Caldwell to his wife, Elizabeth Caldwell

Mrs Caldwell

Mr Lawrences

Digbeth

Birmingham

Linley Wood, 25^th December 1809

Though it might possibly be unreasonable, my own dear Eliza, yet I could not help feeling a little disappointment at not receiving some intelligence from you by the last night post; but I console myself by concluding from it that your stay in London is not protracted, and that you are now on your road to Birmingham; where, as I well know that it will be a satisfaction to you to meet with a line from me, I will not suffer the Post to depart tonight without one, though it be only to tell you that I am perfectly recovered from my late attack, and that you maybe quite comfortable and at ease on my account during the time you stay.

Need not attempt to express to you, with what extreme delight we all anticipate our approaching meeting. Most joyful, indeed, will it be, if it be crowned with the prospect of the recovery of our dear girl; and most happy the moment, when with such hopes and expectations, we once more draw all together round our own fireside.

Eliza had a letter from Ann Lawrence a day or two ago, giving us reason to hope for the pleasure of seeing her tomorrow at Linley Wood, but speaking of only staying one day, this arrangement you will probably alter.

Miss Wedgwood is also coming to dinner tomorrow, and will stay all night. This visit is for the purpose of a grave Law Consultation with me, upon some knotty or point or other, about which she says, she can get no satisfaction from any body else, and so as she expresses it “like the rest of the Country” she is coming to me.

I do not know whether if things continue to go on as they have hitherto done, I may not in time obtain the honour of a kind of Whitworth Doctor like fame in Law, at least whilst they continue to take small [hus, issues?] and I take none we shall probably not want practice, and that serves to keep up a sort of reputation whatever may be its solidity.

If you stay at Birmingham, as you propose, and which will as Mary dearest be very prudent and proper, you will, I hope, give me a line by the return of the Post, as we shall all be impatient to know on what day we may expect you. It is very fortunate that the weather continues so mild. We [hole due to wax seal] Church this morning, and are give [wax seal] roast beef dinner today. One at the farm, and one at the Hall, as I suppose our guests will call it.

Your girls are all well, and I believe I may add all happy. Mrs Beardmore is to drink tea with them; so you see we endeavour to let people suffer as little as possible by your absence. But be not afraid, my beloved wife, nothing in this world can ever make up the worst of your absence. At best it is to me scarcely life without you. I should unwillingly think of our ever being again separated for so long a time. But let me not cloud the dear and happy hope of our so soon meeting, with the comfortless idea of future partings.

All these dear good girls join me in every tender and kind remembrance of yourself and your two companions, and you will also present our kindest regards and remembrances to all our friends atBirmingham. Should you not particularly mention [affix?] something about their coming to Linley Wood? Farewell dear friend and partner of my heart, and ever regard me as your most tenderly affectionate attached and grateful husband.

James Caldwell

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 26 December 1809

At home.  Miss Wedgwood came to dinner asking for my opinion as to prosecute an Offender for obtaining Relief on false pretences.  Staid all night.  A Lawrence also arrived to dinner from Ollerton.

Wednesday 27 December 1809

At Newcastle with Agreement which I had prepared for engaging with Christr Crowder as Clerk at the Liverpool Brewery.  Long Conversation with W Bent.  Macclesfield &c.  In the course of this W B in allusion to what had been said by Mr R Bent on Sunday last, that the Malt Liquor which they brewed at Liverpool though perfectly fine in their own Cellar, yet when it came to be removed was turbid & would not fine: observed that this was owing to too much Mucilage & explained it further as follows.  Old Malt has more Mucilage than new. The biting[?] taste of the latter shows that it possesses more souchain[?]   Malt has in itself a tendency to return to Mucilage.  Liquor brewed from old Malt, having therefore so considerable a quantity of Mucilage , this Mucilage on its being removed, is put in action & causes the Liquor not to be fine.  The remedy is by making the Malt at a higher Heat.  Old Malt should always be mashed at a higher heat than new

England & Wales contain together 38,500,000 Acres of which 

    Acres   Acres Hedge Rows

Wheat3,160,000Fallow  2,297,000Coppice &c  1,041,000

Barley & Rye   861,000Hop Grounds          36,000Ways Water &c  1,316,000

Oats & Beans2,872,000Nursery Grds           9,00032,027,000

Clover Rye Grass &c1,149,000Fruit & Kitchen Commons & 

Roots & Cabbage1,150,000Gards cultivated waste Lands  6,473,000

Cultivated by the ploughby the Spade         41,00038,500,000

Pleasure Grounds   16,000  

    Land depastured by Cattle17,479,000

Comlars[?] Inquiry on national Subsistence 1808

[Page 43]

December 1809

Thursday 28 December 1809

At Burslem. Various matters. Ann & Betsy arrived to dinner from Nantwich.

Friday 29 December 1809

At Newcastle on various matters.

Saturday 30 December 1809

At home.  Mr Beckett relative to Marsh Business.  In the evening I had once more the happiness to receive my beloved wife & Daughter who arrived about 8 oClock. The latter, as we fondly hope, at least improved by her journey & the prospect afforded us of a complete restoration to health.

Sunday 31^st December 1809

At home. Service as usual.