Michael Heath-Caldwell M.Arch
Brisbane, Queensland
ph: 0412-78-70-74
alt: m_heath_caldwell@hotmail.com
Hannah Stamford of Linley Wood - 67/68 - Sister of Elizabeth Caldwell
Anne Caldwell of Nantwich - 62/63
Elizabeth Caldwell of Nantwich (Bessy) - 54/55
James Caldwell of Linley Wood - 61/62
Elizabeth Caldwell (ne Stamford) of Linley Wood - 66/67
Elizabeth Caldwell (Bessy) - 54/55
Hannah Eliza Roscoe - age 35/36 - daughter of James and Elizbeth C.
James Stamford Caldwell - age - 34/35 - son of James and Elizbeth C.
Ann Marsh-Caldwell - age 29/30 - daughter of James and Elizbeth C.
Margaret Emma Holland - age - 28/29 - daughter of James and Elizbeth C.
Anne Marsh-Caldwell – age 29/30 (Lady Mary’s mother)
Arthur Cuthbert Marsh - age 34/35
Eliza Louisa Marsh-Caldwell – known as Louisa – age 2/3
Frances Mary Crofton (ne Marsh) - age 1/2
Georgina Amelia Marsh-Caldwell – Gies – age 0/1
Diary of James Caldwell at Linley Wood
Monday 1st January 1821
This year sets in with severe frost which has now continued for a week or ten days. Mr Charles Lawton called, whom I mentioned here the intended Act of Parliament, but as he was in haste I promised to call upon him tomorrow. Invitation from Trentham to myself, Eliza, Emma and Stamford to dine and stay all night on
Wednesday 10th Inst, which owing to my engagements we could not accept.
Tuesday 2nd January 1821
Called at Lawton Hall, and long conversation relative to the Act of Parliament which Mr C Lawton agreed should be obtained and desired me to do what I thought it best respecting it. His only difficulty was about the expense which I told him he must have wore and I would take care that it should be as moderate as possible.
Wednesday 3rd January 1821
At home. Engaged on various Navigation Papers &c previous to setting off to [Birchton?] Lodge tomorrow.
Thursday 4th January 1821
Set off to Birchton Lodge this morning. Arrived at Stone about ½ past 12. Long conversation with Mr Langham and afterwards an interview with Mr Murphy relative to the Steam Machine. Arrived at Stafford about 3 where Mr Chetwynd lives met and took me to Birchton Lodge. Reverend Mr Levett of Mildford dined with us.
Friday 5th January 1821
The weather being very severe, we passed the morning in looking over Mr Chetwynds Books and conversation on Navigation affairs &c &c. Took Mrs Chetwynd in the carriage to Bishton where we dined. Met Rev. Mr Englehard and Mrs Landon of Rugeley and Miss Moreton. Staid all night at Bishton.
Saturday 6th January 1821
Long conversation with Mr Sparrow and Mr Chetwynd this morning on Navigation Affairs and particularly on the proposed Steam Machines when they desired me to write to Mr Rennie for his opinion of the Parties and the project. Met Mr Rangeley again at Stone. Arrived at Linley Wood about six o’clock when I found Mr Skerrett. Wrote to Mr Rennie.
Sunday 7th January 1821
At home. Service. Sent the letter to Mr Rennie.
Monday 8th January 1821
At home. Engaged with Mr Skerrett &c.
Tuesday 9th January 1821
At home. Mr Skerrett &c.
Wednesday 10th January 1821
Set off on journey to Shrewsbury. Met Sir John Heathcote and Mr Walthall at Newcastle; from whence we proceeded together to Shrewsbury where we arrived to dinner. Saw Mr Thomas Bent and Mr John Heathcote in the evening.
Thursday 11th January 1821
Engaged all day at the Brewery; when we finally made arrangements as to the salaries, management &c which appeared to be satisfactory to all parties.
Friday 12th January 1821
Left Shrewsbury after breakfast, arrived at Linley Wood to dinner.
Saturday 13th January 1821
At home. Mr Skerrett &c.
Sunday 14th January 1821
At home. Service
Monday 15th January 1821
Set off early to Stone to attend Meeting of the General Committee. Took Mr Thomas Sparrow from Newcastle. Much engaged all day particularly relative to the proposed Steam Machine.
Tuesday 16th January 1821
Engaged again all morning, but returned home late to dinner. Began draining in the Meadow.
Wednesday 17th January 1821
Dined at Lawton Hall. Colonel and Mrs and Miss Tryon of Wettenhall and W. Penlington.
Thursday 18th January 1821
At home. Engaged on papers previous to setting off to Macclesfield wit Mr Walthall tomorrow on annual Settlement of Accounts. Mr Buller, Captain Wedgwood and Mr Walthall dined.
Friday 19th January 1821
Set off with Mr Walthall to Macclesfield. Arrived there about 12 and closely engaged the whole of the remainder of the day on Books and Accounts. Dr A. Bent who had lately come to Macclesfield to settle as a Physician dined with us late at the Hotel.
Saturday 20th January 1821
Engaged again with the Accounts which were finally settled and signed. Returned to Linley Wood from whence Mr Walthall proceeded to Newcastle, being engaged to dine at Mr T Sparrow’s. Remarkably mild fine day, more resembling May than January, as indeed the weather has been for some days past.
Sunday 21st January 1821
I this day completed the 62 year of my life. Service and intoned my great climactorial of 63. To what serious recollections does not this give rise.
Monday 22nd January 1821
At home. In the morning Mr Tomlinson and Mr Jones relative to the intended Act of Parliament for confirming the Lawton Title. Colonel and Mrs Tryon, Miss Tryon, Mr and Mrs C. Lawton, Captain Sturt, Captain Wedgwood, Rev Mr Wood and W. Penlington dined.
Tuesday 23rd January 1821
Unwell with a severe cold attended with much inflammation of the chest.
Wednesday 24th January 1821
So unwell as to be in bed almost the whole of the day.
Thursday 25th January 1821
Still very unwell, thought rather better.
Friday 26th January 1821
Though very unfit for it, yet went to Trentham Inn to attend Militia Meeting for receiving Lists and hearing Appeals. A very hard and fatiguing day, an unusually great number of People attending, and the weight of the business falling upon myself, Mr Spode attended, and Mr Hugh Booth came in late being his first appearance as a Deputy Lieutenant. Returned late to dinner much tired and worse from the hurry of the day.
Saturday 27th January 1821
Unwell, and confined to the House all day. In the evening James Whalley detected William Wilshaw shooting in Swallow Moor Wood.
Sunday 28th January 1821
At home. Service. Rowland Bent came to dinner.
Monday 29th January 1821
At home but still confined to the House.
Tuesday 30th January 1821
Being rather better went with Eliza to Newcastle to pay tradesmen’s bills. Long conversation wit Mr Bagshaw and Mr Rowland Bent relative to the rate lately made under the Lighting with Gas Act &c.
Wednesday 31st January 1821
At home. Better. Began thinning the Plantation on the South side of the House by taking out the Larches. William Martin called.
From James Caldwell letters
Letter to James Caldwell
Cliff-ville 1st February 1821
My dear Sir,
Agreeably to your requests I now send you my professional Bill. That relating to the business with Mr Wood, I have made out distinctly but have figured in the disbursements and routine charges only. My own personal attendance &c I beg to leave entirely to yourself.
I am very much surprised that I have not received the Draft of the Petition from Mr Jones. Eleven days are now elapsed since we met at Linley Wood. I wrote immediately to Mr Atcheson to learn the time allowed in the Lords for receiving Private Petitions. None was then fixed, but he says a month from the day of meeting is usually the time. As much business was executed, he recommended the Petition to be sent up immediately. No attestation to the Petition is necessary, and out Witness is sufficient to prove the signatures.
I remain
My dear Sir,
Yours most faithfully and obliged
J Tomlinson.
Thursday 1st February 1821
At home. Mr Martin dined.
Friday 2nd February 1821
At Trentham Inn, attending Meeting of Committee to hear Appeals under the Assessed Taxes. Sir John Heathcote, Mr Spode and Mr Booth and myself. The two former went away about 3 o’clock leaving Mr Booth (who had come in late) and myself. Staid till between 5 and 6 o’clock when it being found impossible to get through the whole of the Appeals we adjourned to Friday the 16th. A very hard and fatiguing day, not getting home till near 7 at night.
Saturday 3rd February 1821
At Cliffe Ville settling with Mr Tomlinson the Draft of the Petition to the House of Lords for the intended Lawton Estate Act. Company Deed &c &c. Returned to dinner.
Sunday 4th February 1821
At home. Service.
Monday 5th February 1821
At home. Wm Penlington relative to a proposed division with Mr Morris of Knutwood Lands and advising him there on and drawing out a proposal and particular with a view to such division &c.
Tuesday 6th February 1821
In the morning spoke to [blank] [Clinch?] the Brickmaker at the Woodfield Colliery who said that the Bricks might as well be made at a greater distance and behind the Engine, and at the present [Irish, West?] bank. That if he did not make the Brick somebody else would, it being Mr Martin’s determination that bricks should be made there.
Afterwards went to Cliffe Ville consulting Mr Tomlinson relative to being an Action &c, but which it proved too late to do so as to bring the matter on for Trial at the Spring Assizes.
From James Caldwell letters
Letter to James Caldwell
James Caldwell
Linley Wood
Near Lawton
Cheshire
Wheelock
6th February 1821
Dear Sir,
On receipt of Mr Tomlinson’s last letter I wrote to Kent to meet me at Lawton on Tuesday last to arrange [riposting?] his mortgages and I am happy to inform you that he has consented to accept the Bond of Mr Lawton and his brother Charles for the remaining Principal owing to him and to surrender the charge and I have accordingly prepared the Draft of the Surrender and intend going to Lawton on Tuesday next to complete the business.
I waited on Mr Charles Lawton afterwards to inform him what I had being doing and took the opportunity of saying I supposed he was aware the business would take him and his brother [William?] to town to give their consents in person which was absolutely necessary unless a Medical man to certify they were unable to undertake the journey and he surprised me by saying I ought rely neither he or his brother would go to town as he should not put himself to that expense, that he considered the manner as altogether unnecessary and that you might have been satisfied with the Title as it was. I said all I could and told him you considered the putting Rents Lands into the Settlement equally desirable for the Family and that of his Brother should be entrapt the measures might be impeded if not rendered impracticable. I urged the business no further thinking it as, came better have you but I did not forget to inform him you [never?] compellable to have made the last installment on your purchase money unless an [Agreement?] had been obtained. You will see it in his expenses that [‘prevailiss?]. He told me you had informed him £500 and be required and I said I thought it impossible to [advance?] for that sum. When you see him again I make no doubt you will conquer his objection, but as you will be better able to judge of the probable [rescues?] of the [tab?] and otherwise attending it would it not be better and make it made palatable to him if you were to limit him to pay a certain sum and take the rest on yourself. Pardon me for mentioning this but I do it with a view of getting him to acquiesce cordially in the [measure?]. He told me he would have declined joining in the [Agreement?] on your maintaining it to him but you spoke so handsomely on the subject and when I referred to the Agreement he said he never saw it but I told him he had executed it and must have forgot it. I shall be glad to hear when you have surmounted this pivotal of all difficulties.
I remain,
Dear Sir,
Very faithfully yours
J Jones.
James Caldwell diary
Wednesday 7th February 1821
At home. Mr Morris and Mr Penlington relative to division of Knutwood lands and which was finally agreed upon according to a Memorandum which I drew out and delivered to them. Mr Morris afterwards called and desired the Land might not be let in anything like at present be done under the Agreement.
Thursday 8th February 1821
At home. Engaged in the farm &c.
Friday 9th February 1821
At home. Farm &c.
Saturday 10th February 1821
At Wharlock in the morning calling upon Mr Jones in consequence of his having informed me that Mr C. Lawton now refused to concur in the intended Act of Parliament and conversation with him thereon, previous to my seeing Mr C. L. on Monday.
Sunday 11th February 1821
At home. Service.
Monday 12th February 1821
At Lawton Hall relative to the intended Act which it was again agreed should be proceeded with and Mr C Lawton promised that he and his brother would dine at Linley Wood tomorrow to meet Mr Jones.
Tuesday 13th February 1821
At home. Mr and Mrs C. Lawton, Mr Jones dined. Mr Lawton being prevented coming by an attach of Gout. Long conversation relative to the intended Act and the powers that it might be desirable to obtain for the benefit of the Lawton Estate. Mr Jones left with me Kent’s Mortgage and the [Timber?] of it, but the conveyance from Kent to Mr Lawton had been neglected to be bought and delivered up by Kent. Mr Jones staid all night at Linley Wood.
Wednesday 14th February 1821
Mr Jones set off to Lowchapel to obtain the Deed for Kent and which he promised to send to me; but in the evening received a note from him informing me that he could not find it either in the possession of Kent or Mr Lawton.
Thursday 15th February 1821
At home in the morning. Mr Charles Lawton called with whom looked at the [Inn, house, line?] in Linley Lane in dispute wit the Ladies of the Manor and which said that he went down and belonged to his brother. Dined at Dr Northen’s, Eliza, Mrs S. and Emma. Met Sir John and 2 Miss Heathcotes, Miss Moreton, Rev Mr Jas Mainwaring and Mr Edward Powys.
Friday 16th February 1821
At Trentham Inn attending meeting to hear Appeals under the Assessed Taxes. Mr Spode, Mr Booth and myself.
Saturday 17th February 1821
At home.
“Impress upon the musing visitor the transitory value of human possessions, and the happiness of those who enjoy a humble lot in virtuous contentment.” Kenilworth.
Eliza, Emma and Miss Stamford went to Newcastle. Mr Morris relative to Stone Pit at Talk.
Sunday 18th February 1821
At home. Service.
Monday 19th February 1821
In the morning Mr Morris with whom walked to Talk-on-the-Hill, viewing the Stone Quarry which Mr Morris recommended my opening and working in an effectual manner.
Draft Letter to John Tomlinson from James Caldwell, 19th March 1821
John Tomlinson
Cliffe Ville
Linley Wood, 19th March 1821
My dear Sir,
I am truly concerned to trouble you again so soon upon the Lawton business, but thinking it necessary to act with the greatest caution [‘and not to be drawn into any communication with Mr Jones of which advantage might by possibility be hereafter taken’ crossed out] I hope you will excuse my sending you the inclosed letter which I received from Mr Jones yesterday, and requesting you opinion what reply I should give to it. I thought of something like the inclosed, but submit this entirely to your judgment and consideration. It seems to me that Mr Jones now is anxious to excuse himself [‘Mr Jones wishes to get out of the scrape himself and throw the burden upon other people’s shoulders’ crossed out] but if it was “his duty” to name the Agreement now why did he not do it at the time of my purchase and thereby prevent two bona fide [‘purchases being involved’ crossed out] in all the trouble and mischief that seems likely to ensue.
The true and honest course seems to now to be plain - - . Either the Agreement now started is valid, or not. Of this let the Parties satisfy themselves in such manner as they may judge best.
If it be invalid, there is no further difficulty. If valid, the Lands agreed to be substituted by the Act of Parliament must be settled to the uses of the Agreement instead of the uses of the Settlement. The great point seems to be the getting all the Partners (Jones) into a proper Agreement of affairs such that the [most superior?] But in one way or the other, my Title ought to be perfected: and as this is in the power of the Parties to do, without prejudice to anyone, I cannot but hope that a Court of Equity would compel it, and not permit the Title of a bonafide purchaser for a valuable consideration to be defeated by Parties taking advantage of their own wrong in withholding a private Agreement, whilst they were joining in the conveyance, and covenanting for the Title.
As Mr Jones’s letter principally refers to the Draft sent, perhaps you will think it proper to write to him yourself mentioning my having sent you his letter.[X]
Do you think it would be advisable to stall the case and obtain the opinion of Counsel?
Believe me, my dear Sir,
Yours most faithfully
James Caldwell
[X] PS. The great point seems to be the getting all the Parties into a proper Agreement to obtain an Act of Parliament the next Session.
Jones’s letter is perhaps important, you will therefore be so good as to take care of it, or return it as you think best.
Would not the terms of years that we have got in [be refer?] in any case a protection of the Title, except as against the issue male of Mr Lawton?
Letter to James Caldwell from Tomlinson.
James Caldwell
Linley Wood
Cliff-ville 19th March 1821
My dear Sir,
I am sorry that I have been obliged to detain your servant; but not more than five minutes before he arrived, a gentleman came here by appointment on family arrangements of some importance. I could not leave him till I had gone through them, which has occupied a considerable time.
In replying to Mr Jones’s letter, I think you had better not advert to the Agreement, or even glance at the circumstances which have arisen in our way. I would recommend that in this stage, you merely informed him, that you had committed the business on your part to myself, and that after he had consulted the Mr Lawtons on the Draft I had sent him, it would be bad for him, and me, to see each other. I will attend any appointment that may be made, on having a day’s previous notice and I think Linley Wood would be the proper place for us to meet, or in all events that you should be present. Correspondence will thus be avoided and we shall ascertain at once what they mean to do. I can thus shape our measures accordingly.
I remain.
My dear Sir,
Very faithfully yours,
J Tomlinson.
I have returned Jones’s letter and also the sketch of your answer, altered according to my ideas.
Tuesday 20th February 1821
At Lawton Hall early making further search with Mr C. Lawton for the Conveyance from Kent, but which we could not find. Wrote letter to Mr Tomlinson thereupon. Mr Vaughan on Navigation Affairs.
Wednesday 21st February 1821
At home. Eliza, Miss Stamford and Emma went to Mare Hall. In the evening Ann and Bessy arrived from London.
Thursday 22nd February 1821
At home. Engaged on various papers relating to the affairs of the late Mrs Sarah Stamford previous to my going to Newcastle tomorrow to settle the remaining duties payable under her Will.
Friday 23rd February 1821
At Newcastle engaged with Mr Small on the above business. At Mr Sparrow’s relative to his Bills of Costs and [lew?] with the Navigation Company. At the Brewery. Heard of the death of Mr Mills of Barleston who died this morning at 2 o’clock. Returned home to dinner. Found that Mr Wilbraham of Rode Hall had called in my absence.
Saturday 24th February 1821
At home. Mr Tomlinson and Mr Jones relative to the intended Act of Parliament. Settling Petition, Proofs &c, and finally agreed that a Deed of Confirmation should be taken from Kent, in the original Conveyance from him to Mr Lawton having been lost or mislaid.
Sunday 25th February 1821
Service. Afterwards called at Lawton, when Mr Lawton and I agreed to go ourselves to Mr Kent’s in quest of the Deeds that were missing, and where we had the satisfaction to find them after all the trouble and vexation that had been occasioned. Returned to dinner. Found Rowland Bent also dined.
Monday 26th February 1821
At home. Various matters.
Tuesday 27th February 1821
At home. Mr Charles Lawton relative to the intended Act which I desired that power should be obtained to sell and pay off the mortgages, looking also at the further land which I wished to purchase, when he proposed letting me have an acre more of the Ditches, and the small piece lying to the Turnpike Road adjoining the Rough [Grasses?]
Wednesday 28th February 1821
At Cliffe Ville in consequence of Mr Lawton’s determination and to give instruction for additions to the Petition accordingly. Severe frost and very cold day.
Thursday 1st March 1821
In the morning Mr George Edwards with whom agreed for the making of the Hilditchs fields at E per ton including everything but spreading. Dined at the Lawton and had dinner at the Red Bull, Mr Charles Lawton, Reverend and Mrs Salmon, Bayley, Wood of Middlewich, Davenport, Loundes, W. Penlington and self. Finally fixed with Mr Charles Lawton as to the Powers of the intended Act and explained to him the further extra expense which would be incurred by the powers of Sale.
Friday 2nd March 1821
At home. Removed from Swallow Moor Wood and planted in the new an oak about 18 feet high and placed nearly at the further end from the House of the lower side of the plantation.
Saturday 3rd March 1821
At Newcastle meeting Mr Vaughan at Mr Sparrow’s examining Accounts between Mr J. S. and the Navigation Company, at Brewery. Returned home to dinner and found Mr Skerrett of Nantwich. Eliza and Emma accompanied me to Newcastle, the latter to consult Dr Northen.
Letter to James Caldwell, Linley Wood from Tomlinson, 3rd March 1821
My dear Sir,
The prayer of the Petition stands so general, being for making effectual the Sale and Conveyance to yourself, that it leaves us fully open to frame our Bill as we please. The object you have in view will be accomplished by the saving Clause which I will take care shall be extensive enough to bar the Lawton Family and all persons claiming through them.
Mr Armistead is now with me and not only assents to Mr Rimmer being the Surveyor, but has undertaken to make a bargain with him for you and himself, as a joint affair as relates to his Journey and attendance in London on both Bills. He will also desire Rimmer to call upon you without delay, to receive yours and .Lawton’s instructions. I thought this would save both trouble and time, and therefore I suggested it to Mr Armistead.
I remain on post haste,
Mr dear Sir
Yours very faithfully and truly
J Tomlinson.
Cliffville, Saturday 1’oclock 3rd March 1821
Mr Jones had better bring the Settlement of 1774
No date but may come in here as Jones being mentioned
Letter to James Caldwell, Linley Wood from Jones regarding Lawton Deeds.
Dear Sir,
In my way to Newchappel I could not but revalue in my mind the circumstances of the Deeds asked for and had partly satisfied my mind that I had some recollection of Mr Charles Lawton taking them and on arriving at my journeys end I was confirmed in that belief by Rails[?] stating he had not them. I made him make search and the result was only an Agreement for the Land taken into G. Navigation.
On arriving at Lawton and mentioning the circumstances to Mr Lawton he said he had them but on looking over the Deeds himself he could not find them and then said he never had them. I could from memory [servas?] the Deeds in question were delivered to [Kent?] and I am confirmed in that persuasion by the undertaking a look at the Schedule and moreover I believe [Kent?] to be one because conscientious [clever?] about making the circumstances of your Deed being out of the way the more unaccountable.
On my return however I will refer to my [Memorandum] Port to see if it will afford any further information. It will be necessary for Wharton as well as Kent to make a more accurate search before we consider what must be done to supply the [place?[ of them if not forthcoming.
I am in haste Dear Sir,
Very - -
[J?] Jones.
Sunday 4th March 1821
At home. Service. Mr Jones of Wharloch came to dinner and staid all night in his way to Cliffe Ville finally to settle the Petition with Mr Tomlinson.
Monday 5th March 1821
Set off early to Wolseley Bridge to attend Meeting of the Select Committee taking Mr Jones in the chaise to Cliffe Ville. Went with Mr Vaughan from Stone. Arrived at Wolseley Bridge at ½ past 11. Adjourned to Bishton where we did the business. Dined at Wolseley Bridge, returned home at night. Found the melancholy intelligence of the death of poor Charles Wedgwood who had been carried off on the 16th September last in the East Indies by an inflammation of the Bowels.
Tuesday 6th March 1821
In the morning Mr Jones who first apprized me of the difficulty thrown in the way of the intended Act by the secret Agreement which had been entered into by the Lawtons, [abenty?] they were only tenants for life. On his leaving me, went immediately to Cliffe Ville to consult Mr Tomlinson who felt equal indignation and surprise with myself, at this extraordinary transaction, and the Agreement amongst the Lawtons, which Mr Jones did not apprize himself of till after they had completed the Petition and everything that was ready to go to Parliament in the present Session. Mr T. was clearly of opinion that an Agreement of this kind would affect my Title being a [problem?] for a valuable [consideration, amendment?] without [sohel?], but that it would be better to postpone the Bill till the next Session in order to give time for the further arrangements that would now be necessary.
Letter to James Caldwell from Tomlinson, Cliff-ville, 6th March 1821
Linley Wood.
My dear Sir,
I have thrown other business aside and have been at work all morning upon the draft of the Deed of further Declaration of Trust, which I shall compleat either tomorrow, or early on Friday morning; but if it would not subject you to inconvenience, I should be glad to have the opportunity of going over the draft with yourself before the same was sent to the parties. Shall be at home, or within call, the whole of Friday and Saturday. I cannot suppose for a moment that yourself as a bona-fide Purchaser for a valuable consideration can be prejudiced by a secret arrangement of which you had no notice.
It appears to be that it will be better for me not to apply to Mr John Lawton, till I have seen you, and we have settled the drafts together. I write in good haste, and remain
My dear Sir,
Very faithfully and truly,
Tomlinson.
James Caldwell diary
Wednesday 7th March 1821
Ann and Bessy with Mr Skerrett left us after breakfast. Wrote to Mr Tomlinson on the Lawton business and proposing his writing to Mr Jones. Mr Morris of Lawton who left with me case and opinion relative to Married Rights.
Thursday 8th March 1821
At home. Mrs and Miss Tollet and Miss E Tollet (Mrs Tollet being prevented coming by indisposition) Mr and Mrs Hutton who arrived just before dinner and Dr Belcombe dined.
Friday 9th March 1821
At home. Engaged with Mr Tollet and Mr Hutton &c. In looking at the meadow Mr Tollet recommended putting a little quicklime into the water and which I determined to try. Dr Northen dined.
Saturday 10th March 1821
The Huttons left us after breakfast. Emma accompanied them on her way to Liverpool. The Tollets also left us. Afterwards went to Cliffe Ville to look over with Mr Tomlinson the Deed of the intended Act of Indemnity. Returned to dinner.
Sunday 11th March 1821
At home. Service.
Monday 12th March 1821
Called at Rode Hall. Saw Mr and Mrs Willbraham and engaged to dine their on Monday next. Called on my return at Lawton Hall and informed Mr C. Lawton that the intended Act would be postponed till the next Sessions.
Tuesday 13th March 1821
At Newcastle with Mr Smith, Mr Phillips settling duties remaining due under the Wills of the late Miss Stamford and Mr Thomas Jackson. Returned to dinner. In the evening Mr Booth of Audley from whom purchased a bay cold rising four years old, for the
Carriage in lieu of the horse purchased from Mr Cromer, which had become, or nearly become broken waisted. Paid £30.
Wednesday 14th March 1821
At home. Engaged on sundry papers.
Thursday 15th March 1821
Again at Newcastle with Mr Smith and Mr Philips relative to the Duties under the Wills of Miss Stamfordand Mr Thomas Jackson. Returned to dinner.
Friday 16th March 1821
Closely engaged on the Lawton business and writing letter to Mr Tomlinson in consequence of having received one last night from Mr Jones.
Saturday 17th March 1821
At home. Closely engaged on Lawton business.
Sunday 18th March 1821
At home. Service.
Monday 19th March 1821
In the morning engaged on various Papers and letters &c. Dined at Rode Hall. Met Rev Philip Egerton of Malpas and Mrs Egerton, two Miss Cottinghams and the Rev Mr Salmon of Sandbach. The Leycasters of Toft were to have been there but were prevented coming till tomorrow.
Draft Letter to John Tomlinson from James Caldwell, 19th March 1821
John Tomlinson
Cliffe Ville
Linley Wood, 19th March 1821
My dear Sir,
I am truly concerned to trouble you again so soon upon the Lawton business, but thinking it necessary to act with the greatest caution [‘and not to be drawn into any communication with Mr Jones of which advantage might by possibility be hereafter taken’ crossed out] I hope you will excuse my sending you the inclosed letter which I received from Mr Jones yesterday, and requesting you opinion what reply I should give to it. I thought of something like the inclosed, but submit this entirely to your judgment and consideration. It seems to me that Mr Jones now is anxious to excuse himself [‘Mr Jones wishes to get out of the scrape himself and throw the burden upon other people’s shoulders’ crossed out] but if it was “his duty” to name the Agreement now why did he not do it at the time of my purchase and thereby prevent two bona fide [‘purchases being involved’ crossed out] in all the trouble and mischief that seems likely to ensue.
The true and honest course seems to now to be plain - - . Either the Agreement now started is valid, or not. Of this let the Parties satisfy themselves in such manner as they may judge best.
If it be invalid, there is no further difficulty. If valid, the Lands agreed to be substituted by the Act of Parliament must be settled to the uses of the Agreement instead of the uses of the Settlement. The great point seems to be the getting all the Partners (Jones) into a proper Agreement of affairs such that the [most superior?] But in one way or the other, my Title ought to be perfected: and as this is in the power of the Parties to do, without prejudice to anyone, I cannot but hope that a Court of Equity would compel it, and not permit the Title of a bonafide purchaser for a valuable consideration to be defeated by Parties taking advantage of their own wrong in withholding a private Agreement, whilst they were joining in the conveyance, and covenanting for the Title.
As Mr Jones’s letter principally refers to the Draft sent, perhaps you will think it proper to write to him yourself mentioning my having sent you his letter.[X]
Do you think it would be advisable to stall the case and obtain the opinion of Counsel?
Believe me, my dear Sir,
Yours most faithfully
James Caldwell
[X] PS. The great point seems to be the getting all the Parties into a proper Agreement to obtain an Act of Parliament the next Session.
Jones’s letter is perhaps important, you will therefore be so good as to take care of it, or return it as you think best.
Would not the terms of years that we have got in [be refer?] in any case a protection of the Title, except as against the issue male of Mr Lawton?
James Caldwell diary
Tuesday 20th March 1821
At home. Closely engaged with various papers. Copied case with Mr[Serjt Lens’s?] opinion (which had been sent to me by Mr Tremlow of Betley Court) relative to the liability of Canals and Coal monies to be rated to the Highways.
Wednesday 21st March 1821
At home. Engaged on various papers. Miss Stamford and Elizabeth went to Mare Hall, but returned to dinner.
Thursday 22nd March 1821
At home. Engaged on papers. Found a Cowslip in flower in the ground along the Terrace.
Friday 23rd March 1821
Went to Trentham Inn, attending Deputy Lieutenancy and Assessed Taxes Meeting, swearing in [enrolled?] men &c for Militia, Mr Spode, Mr Booth, Mr R Bourne. On going and returning called upon Mr Smith finally to settle Duties under the Wills of Mr Jackson and Mrs Stamford. Returned to dinner much fatigued. Returned Sergt Lee’s Court Opinion to Mr Tremlow by the Post from Newcastle.
Saturday 24th March 1821
At home. Engaged perusing and considering papers sent me by Mr Skerrett yesterday relative to Foxholes and Leasehold Lands in Newfoundland belonging to the late General Skerrett, and with a view to a Memorial being presented to Sir Charles Hamilton for a fresh Grant of the same, and writing letter to Mr Skerrett thereon.
Sunday 25th March 1821
At home. Service. William Bent came to dinner. Rowland being prevented from coming as he has proposed doing by illness. William Bent first mentioned the object they had in view, and which they wished to submit to my consideration, namely, the giving up of the Concern at Macclesfield and transferring the business to Lancaster, and which they thought might be done with advantage and particularly as the latter would require the active management of more than one person. Stamford arrived in the evening.
Monday 26th March 1821
At home. Finished and signed the Inn papers.
Tuesday 27th March 1821
At home. Engaged on Mr Skerrett’s papers. Much rain.
Wednesday 28th March 1821
At home. Engaged on Draft and drawing a Memorial to Sir Charles Hamilton and writing letter to Mr Skerrett.
Thursday 29th March 1821
At home. In the morning Stamford set off to Liverpool.
Friday 30th March 1821
Received letter from the Rev Mr Leigh of Newcastle requesting me to attend a Meeting of the Inhabitants of Newcastle for the purpose of petitioning Parliament against the Roman Catholic Commission Bills and to prepare a Petition for that purpose, but which I declined. Afterwards at Newcastle to see Rowland Bent.
Saturday 31st March 1821
At home. Engaged perusing and considering a Bill now in Parliament which I received last night from Mr Chetwynd for explaining and amending the Statutes concerning Commissions of Sewers and its effects as to Canal Navigation and making observations thereon preparatory to writing to Mr Chetwynd.
From James Caldwell letters.
Female Education in India.
The perusal of the following letter, (written by a Missionary after more than twenty years’ residence in India) has stimulated a few individuals, to use their endeavours for aiding in the support of Native Female Schools in Calcutta. Their own feelings, on the subject prompt them to think that the information it contains will deeply affect the heart of every British Female, from whom they now solicit pecuniary assistance. As permanent advantage can only be expected from continued resources, their object is to form a Penny per Week Society, this moderate sum being adapted to the circumstances of a greater number of Persons, but they wish not to limit the liberality of any, whose inclinations and ability, may induce them to subscribe more largely. The advocates for this Institution, will call upon their Friends in a few days.
Cotton Works
Newcastle. January 1st, 1822
Subscriptions and donations will be received at Mr Smith’s Stationer,Newcastle.
To Miss - , of Liverpool
The Hercules, at sea, March 31, 1821
My Dear Friend,
No person will charge me with having fallen into an error in addressing this letter to you, I have only to ask your forgiveness for not having mentioned my design to you before these letters appeared in print.
I am very anxious to have awakened in the minds of benevolent females in Britain and America, that concern for their sex in India, which will ultimately secure an amelioration of their condition. Why should not this subject be taken up with the same simultaneous feeling among females in these countries, as the Bible Society has been by both sexes all over the world? Are the females in Asia, who, by their want of education, are lost to themselves, to their families, to society, and to Christianity, too small a body, to call for a female association in their favour in every considerable town throughout Britain and America? They cannot amount to less than seventy-five millions of minds. Are their sufferings too trifling to demand such an enlarged attention.
A description of the state of women in Hindoost’han will supply an answer to this last question;-
The anxiety of a Hindoo to obtain a son who may present the funeral offerings, upon the presentation of which he supposes his future happiness to depend, and the expenses attending the support and marriage of girls, makes the birth of a female in a Hindoo family an unwelcome event: hence the sex in India come into the world frowned upon by their own parents and relations. No favourable prognostic this of future comforts.
I ought here to mention the case of female children among the rajpoots; for though this relation belongs only to one of the Hindoo tribes, it exhibits a strong corroborative proof of the low estimation in which even the lives of females are held in India. One of the families of the rajpoots, it is said, -
Transcription continues.
Sunday 1st April 1821
At home. Service. Wm Penlington called.
Monday 2nd April 1821
At home. Wrote long letter to Chetwynd with observations in the Bill in Parliament. Mr Beardmore &c &c. Stamford returned.
Tuesday 3rd April 1821
At Stone meeting Mr Webb and examining Cash Book and Surveyors Accounts which we settled. Out all day. The weather being stormy went in the Talk Chaise which was paid for by Mr Vaughan.
Wednesday 4th April 1821
At home. Mr Beardmore with whom settled account including [farm, Fram l?] Beardmore’s on Note and discharged the same as per Cash Book. Planted an Orleans Plum and a Summer Bon Chretien Pear Tree in the orchard in Linley Meadow.
Thursday 5th April 1821
At home. Engaged on the farm. Eliza planted two Bon Chretien Pears in the Orchard at the farm.
Friday 6th April 1821
At Trentham Inn attending Meeting swearing in and balloting Militia. Mr Bourne, Mr Booth and self, all day.
Saturday 7th April 1821
At home. Engaged on Navigation papers &c. Fine mild day. Moses Barlow settling his account of Rent, Repairs &c to Michaelmas last, and the balance of which he discharged. Afterwards rode to the Stone Quarry and gave directions that unless the stone fully answered the Navigation Company purposes no more should be sort.
Sunday 8th April 1821
At home. Service.
Monday 9th April 1821
At Newcastle Brewery previous to setting off tomorrow to Shrewsbury.
Tuesday 10th April 1821
Went with Sir John Heathcote and Mr Walthall to Shrewsbury where we arrived to dinner.
Wednesday 11th April 1821
At Shrewsbury, closely engaged all day at the Brewery settling the books, accounts &c.
Thursday 12th April 1821
Again at the Brewery. Settled and signed annual Account. Came to Turn Hill to dinner where I purchased a black Welch cow from Mr J Winslett. Arrived at home the same evening.
Friday 13th April 1821
At home. Engaged on various matters.
Saturday 14th April 1821
At home. Heavy and incessant rain. Letter writing. Meeting took place between Mr Baily &c for setting a price on Foxholes Estate. Mr Johnson called in the afternoon and again assured me that there were no coals of the least value; and advised me to be quiet for awhile longer as to purchasing.
Sunday 15th April 1821
At home. Service. Mr Walthall dined.
Monday 16th April 1821
At home. Wrote to Mr Chetwynd. Also to Mr Tomlinson relative to the Lawton business. Miss Stamfordset off to Eton.
Tuesday 17th April 1821
Went to Nantwich with Eliza. Arrived at my sister’s to dinner.
Wednesday 18th April 1821
At Nantwich, dined at Mr Skerretts. Mr Berman of Shrewsbury to whom mentioned the inclosure of Alsager Common for the information of the Trustees of Mr Boughey’s Estate. Mr and Mrs W Garnett and party drank tea.
Thursday 19th April 1821
Went with Eliza and a party to see an Exhibition of Wild Beasts including an Elephant. They called it of the Saloma species. They informed me that he was 9ft 8ins in height, 47 feet in girth and weighed 5.16 T. Apparently very gentle and tractable; but they said that about a week before he had nearly killed one of their people to whom he had taken a dislike, and who went into the wagon to him. He performed various tricks, fired off a pistol &c &c. He took a sixpenny piece off my hand and afterwards returned it. The touch of his proboscis was very light, making little or no pressure on my hand either when he took off the sixpence and returned it.
Friday 20th April 1821
At Nantwich. Rode to Reaseheath and Poole.
Saturday 21st April 1821
Returned to dinner. Found Stamford, Emma, Charles Crompton and Miss Roscoe. Received letter from Mr Heaton relative to Foxholes Estate.
Sunday 22nd April 1821
At home. Service. In the evening Charles Crompton left us on his journey to London.
Monday 23rd April 1821
At Newcastle on various matters. Returned to dinner.
Tuesday 24th April 1821
Set off to Stone. Called upon Mr Eardley at Chesterton and gave him a letter to send to Mr John Martin relative to [doubts? Abate?] and I explaining the process at that –poned by Mr Heaton.. Took Mr Thomas Sparrow from Newcastle. Engaged all day at Stone on General Committee. In the Chair.
Wednesday 25th April 1821
Engaged on General Assembly. In the Chair. Full meeting. Returned home at night, but unwell and much fatigued.
Thursday 26th April 1821
At home. Unwell.
Friday 27th April 1821
Prevented going to Trentham Inn to attend a further Ballot for the Militia by being unwell and the wetness of the morning. Mr Chambers came to dinner.
Saturday 28th April 1821
At home. Engaged with men in the grounds particularly laying grass clods on the right hand side of the approach to the House. Dr Belcombe dined.
Sunday 29th April 1821
At home. Mr Chambers &c &c. Attending at Talk Chapel this morning our own Service was omitted.
Monday 30th April 1821
Mr Chambers and Stamford left Linley Wood. The former for Chester. Stamford for Liverpool. Turned 10 milking cows into the land under the Terrace, the grass being very fervid and a good pasture.
Tuesday 1st May 1821
Prevented going to Betley as I had intended by the arrival of Mr Vaughan relative to an intended Appeal by the Parish of Wolstanton against the Poor Rate on account of the Fells of the land not being rated, and drawing up observations as to the liability of the Canal to the Poor Rates and which I desired Mr Vaughan to show to Mr Chetwynd. Engaged closely all morning.
The noise from the Steam Engine occasioned by the discharge of the Steam &c was so disturbing whilst we were engaged on the above business that we could not set with the window open. Mr Vaughan made a memorandum of the fact.
Wednesday 2nd May 1821
Rode to Betley. Called upon the Wedgwoods. Saw Mrs W but Mr Wedgwood was out. Also called at Lady Fletcher’s, saw Miss F, Mr Tremlow, Lady F and Mrs S being out. Afterwards called upon Mr Tollet and Mr Wickstead.
Thursday 3rd May 1821
At home. Engaged on various papers. Began sowing Oats in the Birchen field near the Turnpike Road, which we had been prevented doing sooner from not being able to get the land into any tolerable condition.
Friday 4th May 1821
Went to Measford to call upon Mr Ricketts but he was from home. Elizabeth, Miss Roscoe and Emma went to Trentham to shew the House &c to Miss R.
Saturday 5th May 1821
At home. Finished sowing Oats in the Birchen Field. In the evening observed the Brick kiln first fired this season in Mr Martin’s land.
Sunday 6th May 1821
At home. Service.
Monday 7th May 1821
At Stone attending Meeting of the Select Committee. Mr Lister, Mr Webb and myself. Mr Chetwynd having that morning set off to London. Took Mr Thomas Sparrow from Newcastle and returned at night.
Tuesday 8th May 1821
Engaged on Navigation papers. Wrote to Mr Hollinshead of Liverpool inclosing a copy of Mr Rennie’s Report on Harecastle Tunnel. Afterwards rode to Harecastle to look at Mr Kinnersly’s stock of fat and other Cattle selling by Auction this day. Some Heifers and Bullocks very fat and fine.
Wednesday 9th May 1821
At home. Engaged on Navigation Papers and correcting Minutes of the last meeting of the Committee for insertion in the Book.
Thursday 10th May 1821
At home. Engaged in the morning writing long letter to Mr Chetwynd on Mr M.A. Taylors Bill now in Parliament relative to Steam Engines.
Friday 11th May 1821
At home. Cheese weighed which I had sold to Mr Garnett of Nantwich.
Saturday 12th May 1821
Called upon Sir John Heathcote at Talk relative to the Shrewsbury Concerns and with whom have a long conversation thereon. Proceeded to Cliffe Ville perusing and finally settling the Draft of the Further Indemnity Deed to be given by the Mr Lawtons. On my return home found that John Bent had called relative to the Accounts &c, with the Liverpool Brewery and thinking it important to see him before he went back, which he left word he should do tomorrow morning, went in the evening to Stoney fields taking Elizabeth with me in the carriage. Long conversation with John Bent, William, Mr and Rowland all of whom I found there and who as well as Mr Hand agreed in the observation which I had made as to the error in the statement of the Accounts delivered.
Sunday 13th May 1821
At home. Service.
Monday 14th May 1821
Engaged all morning writing to Dr Crompton on Liverpool Concerns. Also to Mr Chetwynd in reply to a letter received from him last night relative to the exemption Clause introduced by Mr Littleton into Mr W to Taylors Steam Engine Smoke Consumption Bill.
Tuesday 15th May 1821
At home. Changed the milking cows into Linley Meadow. Sent the Cheese sold to Mr Garnett to Wharlock. Cold and rainy as the weather has been for several days past.
Wednesday 16th May 1821
Mr Potter with whom engaged on various Navigation matters. NB. He observed the smell and smoke from the Brick kiln which was now burning and saw that the smoke extended to the farm house also. He said that it must be injurious to the timber and crops.
Thursday 17th May 1821
At home. Mr Tomlinson and Mr Jones with Deed of further Indemnity from Mr Lawtons, which they afterwards got executed at Lawton. Mr Tomlinson dined.
Friday 18th May 1821
At Trentham attending Meeting of Commissioners of Land Tax for receiving Assessments. Mr Spode, Mr Booth and myself. Busy and fatiguing day. Mr and Mrs Wedgwood of Betley, Elizabeth Wedgwood, Charlotte and Robert came to dinner.
Saturday 19th May 1821
At home. Mr Wickstead and Mr [Tustam?] called and afterwards Mr Wilbraham. Engaged with the Wedgwoods &c.
Sunday 20th May 1821
At home. Service. Mr and Mrs Wedgwood and Eliza at Talk Chapel.
Monday 21st May 1821
At Wolstanton called upon Rev Mr Mainwaring.
Tuesday 22nd May 1821
At home. Rev Mr and Mrs Garnett of Nantwich and Mr Skerrett came to dinner.
Wednesday 23rd May 1821
Walked with Mr Garnett over the farm and to Alsager. Found the Coltsfoot in the land late Mr Jenks’s which had been sowed with [Salt?] on the fallow quite clearly free from weed of every description and the wheat very promising. Rev Mr Mainwaring of Wolstanton and Rev Mr Turton dined. In the forenoon Mr and Mrs Wedgwood, Caroline and Robert left us going to Parkfields.
Thursday 24th May 1821
Engaged again with Mr Garnett, they having consented to stay till tomorrow.
Friday 25th May 1821
After breakfast the Garnetts left us, and we then went to Maer Hall to dinner. In the night severe frost. Early potatoes almost destroyed.
Saturday 26th May 1821
Walked on Mr Harding’s farm viewing his stock &c. He said that he had made 400 lb of cheese from cows from his stock being the short horned or Durham. They are fine animals. He showed us also some fine [Leanter?] Sheep, about 40 lb per [Quarter?]. He said that 50lb of Mangel Wurzel was equal to 23lb of bats. But of this that the cows should on no account be allowed more than 50 weight of Mangelwurzel per day. If more it became injurious. May not this circumstance of correct explain the great debate that has existed as to the utility of this feed as properly used, it may be beneficial, given in two great quantity hurtful? He said that milk of the Devon cows was very rich, but that the objection to them was the shortness of the time that they continued in milk only about 18 weeks, other stocks 40. On our arrival at home we received the intelligence of Mrs Penlington’s death which happened yesterday.
Monday 28th May 1821
At home. Engaged on various matters. Mr and Mrs Charles Lawton called. W. Penlington on the late event.
Tuesday 29th May 1821
At home.
Wednesday 30th May 1821
At home. Mr Brodhurst of Mansfield and Mr Wm Brodhurst, Rev. Mr Mainwaring called. Mr and Mrs Jos Wedgwood and family, Jos, Charlotte, Fanny and Emma and the Brodhursts dined. The latter of whom went in the evening.
Thursday 31st May 1821
At home. The Wedgwoods with us. Dr Northen and Rev Mr Mainwaring dined. W. Penlington in the morning consulting relative to the Funeral. W. Roscoe left us on his return to Liverpool.
Friday 1st June 1821
Mr Potter with plan of the proposed new tunnel through Harecastle Hill.
Saturday 2nd June 1821
In the morning attended the Funeral of the late Mrs Penlington of Rode. Bearers. Myself at the right at the head, Mr Bayley of Stapely opposite, Mr Loundes of Congleton, Rev Mr John Lawton, Rev Mr Wettenhall, Mr Morris.
In the forenoon the Wedgwoods left us.
Sunday 3rd June 1821
In the morning at Talk Chapel and therefore no Service at home.
Monday 4th June 1821
Rode on horseback with Emma to Newcastle. At the Brewery previous to my going to Liverpool on Wednesday next to settle the affairs of the late Partnership of Crompton Bent and Co.
Tuesday 5th June 1821
At home. Engaged on various papers previous to going to Liverpool.
Wednesday 6th June 1821
Set off to Liverpool going in the Gig to Knutsford. Arrived at Liverpool between 3 and 4 o’clock and was soon after joined by Mr Walthall. Took up our quarters at the Brewery.
Thursday 7th June 1821
Engaged on the Accounts &c, which we settled and struck the balance remaining due to Dr Crompton and the Bankers, Mr John Bent being with us. Afterwards called at Mr Roscoe’s Bank that the satisfaction to hear from Dr Crompton &c that the concern was very promising and likely to do well. William Roscoe, Mr Denison dined at the Brewery.
Friday 8th June 1821
After breakfast set off on my return home, bringing Mr Walthall with me in a Chaise to Warrington where we dined and parted. William Dawson met me with the Gig at Knutsford. On my arrival at home had the happiness to find my dear Anne and her three lovely children all perfectly well.
Saturday 9th June 1821
At home. Engaged in evidence relative to Mr Martin’s brick kiln and Steam Engine previous to seeing Mr Tomlinson on Monday.
Sunday 10th June 1821
At home. Service.
Monday 11th June 1821
At Newcastle on Brewery and other matters meeting Sir John Heathcote on Shrewsbury Concern. From thence to Cliffe Ville consulting Mr Tomlinson relative to the Brick kiln &c when we finally were of opinion that it would be best to defer bringing the matter to Trial till the Spring Assizes. Returned to dinner. Wrote to Dr Crompton inclosing Bill for £400 further money on account of my share of Balance remaining due in the miserable concern of the Brewery.
Tuesday 12th June 1821
At Stone attending Meeting of Select Committee. Engaged all day and returned home at night. Took Mr Thomas Sparrow from Newcastle.
Wednesday 13th June 1821
At home. Engaged on various matters.
Thursday 14th June 1821
At home, engaged on Navigation papers &c.
Friday 15th June 1821
At home. Farm &c.
Saturday 16th June 1821
At Newcastle on various matters. Returned to dinner. Elizabeth and Charlotte Wedgwood dined on their way home from Knutsford and went home in the evening.
Sunday 17th June 1821
At home. Service.
Monday 18th June 1821
At home.
Tuesday 19th June 1821
At home. Miss Wedgwoods of Parkfield and Mr Wedgwood of Betley dined. The former staid all night.
Wednesday 20th June 1821
At home. Miss Wedgwoods went after breakfast. Called at Lawton Hall with Eliza. Eliza Roscoe and Anne. Engaged the Lawtons to dine on Friday.
Thursday 21st June 1821
In the morning met Mr Potter and Mr Vaughan at the Red Bull Wharf on Navigation matters. From thence to [Haringwood?] viewing Sir John Heathcote’s Mine water &c. On my return found our dear Emma very unwell which prevented Eliza accompanying E. Roscoe, Anne and myself to Dr Northen’s where we were all engaged to dine. Whilst there were informed by a note that Mr Davenport pronounced Scarlet Fever. Eliza and Anne immediately returned home and first engaging Dr Northen to come in the morning.
Friday 22nd June 1821
Dr Northen came early, who though he found Emma in a very favourable state yet still advised the Children to be taken away, in consequence Anne set off with her children to Nantwich and E. Roscoe to Liverpool. And thus was all the dear party who were enjoying themselves in health and happiness broken up and dispersed in a moment. Mr Wedgwood of Bignall [arrived] paying the half yearly interest sent to Lawton Hall and put off their engagement to dine.
Saturday 23rd June 1821
At Newcastle on various matters. Returned to dinner.
Sunday 24th June 1821
Went to Newcastle to see Anne and the children and to advise with the former as to her staying there in consequence of the Smallpox being on the town, and of which Mr Skerrett who I saw there informed me that vaccinated as well as unvaccinated Patients had died. Mr Kent said it was impossible absolutely to say that the children could not take the infection but he thought they might stay with safety. It was therefore left for Anne to determine according to her own judgment and feelings. She resolved however not to go away the next day. Returned home at night.
Monday 25th June 1821
At home. Engaged on various matters. Drawing transfer of Navigation shares from Mrs Sutherland &c.
Tuesday 26th June 1821
At home meeting Mr Webb examining Treasuries Accounts, also the Cash and Survey Accounts. Engaged long and returned at night.
Wednesday 27th June 1821
At home engaged on various matters.
Thursday 28th June 1821
The like.
Friday 29th June 1821
At home. Engaged all day perusing and examining Acts of Parliament and drawing draft of Bill to enable the Navigation Company to make the intended additional Tunnel at Harecastle [Revision?] at Knapersley &c.
Saturday 30th June 1821
At home. Sir John Heathcote called relative to Shrewsbury concerns and also to Handeywood Mine water taken by the Navigation Company. Afterwards Mr Wilbraham, who invited me to dine on Monday next to meet Rev Mr Jackson but which I declined on account of Emma’s illness and the possibility of infection.
Sunday 1st July 1821
At home. Service.
Monday 2nd July 1821
At Newcastle on various matters. With Eliza and Emma.
Tuesday 3rd July 1821
Began mowing. Went to Nantwich with Eliza. Saw Mr John Garnett relative to Mr Wedgwood’s balance of [beevent?] remaining due on Bond from the late Mr Barrow and Mr Yoxall. Mr Charles Mare relative to transfer of Grand Trunk Shares form W. Penlington which the late Mr Bate had an interest. Dined at Mr and Captain Skerretts. Mr John Garnett dined with us.
Wednesday 4th July 1821
Saw Mr John Garnett again. Called upon Mr [Herbert?] Mr Joseph [Valmer?]. Dined in Dysart Buildings and returned home in the evening. Found that Mr John Heathcote of Shrewsbury had called today.
Thursday 5th July 1821
At home. Engaged on various matters. Hay &c.
Friday 6th July 1821
At Trentham Inn attending Meeting of Land Tax Commissioners, Sir John Heathcote, Mr Kinnersly, R Bourne and myself. Seeing[?] and signing assessments, warrants &c. Long discussion with Mr Tomlinson relative to Stoke Assessment &c. Busy day and returned home to dinner. Long conversation at Trentham Inn with Sir John Heathcote and Mr John H. who came there for the purpose relative to Shrewsbury Brewery concerns.
Saturday 7th July 1821
At home. Busy in the hay.
Sunday 8th July 1821
At home. Service. Stamford arrived from London.
Monday 9th July 1821
At home. Hay &c &c.
Tuesday 10th July 1821
At Newcastle on various matters. Saw at the Roebuck the Kings Horses and Carriages which were on their way to Ireland, and which had arrived just as I came up. There were two coaches and one Baggage Cart each of which was driven by six horses. There were also two more horses ridden by Outriders. All the horses were lofty bright bay horses [without?] any white on them and had the appearance of a good deal of Blood. The coaches were carved with [gilsten?] but the windows frames were gilt and gave one the idea of the Carriages having much gilding upon them. Returned home to dinner. Miss Stamford and Eliza in the morning to see Anne and the children who arrived at Parkfields today, and returned late in the evening.
Wednesday 11th July 1821
At home. Busy in the Hay. After dinner Eliza received a note from Miss Wedgwood informing her that Anne had been attached with the Scarlet Fever at Parkfields, on which we set off together. We found Anne going on very well, the disease being very mild and I returned leaving Eliza.
In the forenoon Colonel Tryon called relative to Alsager Inclosure &c. He said that they should make no claim in respect of the trees in dispute but give them up, and offered me the Cottages at Mear Lake and the small piece of land near the Turnpike Gate in Linley Lane which I agreed to purchase at a valuation to be [set] upon the same. I promised to furnish him with a copy of so much of the Indorsement on the Conveyance from Lord Brereton as related to Mr [Salley’s?] farm late Jenks, as this might serve to show that it was not entitled to Right of Common.
Thursday 12th July 1821
At home. Letter writing &c. Busy carrying hay the day being very fine.
Friday 13th July 1821
Busy carrying hay. Mr and Mrs Charles Lawton called. Dined at Mr Kinnersly’s at Newcastle. Dr Northen, [Brigd?] Heathcote, Mr Hassels and his grandson Mr Bagshaw and T, Kinnersly. Stamford returned from Knutsford Sessions.
Saturday 14th July 1821
At home. Engaged on various papers and matters previous to going to Stone tomorrow on the annual Navigation Survey.
Sunday 15th July 1821
Service. Afterwards went to Parkfields to dinner. Found my dearest Eliza well and Anne better. In the evening went to Stone and met Mr Chetwynd and Mr Webb.
Monday 16th July 1821
Set off very early on the Survey in the Company Boat. Called at Bishton. Took up Mr Lister at Armitage Park and arrived at Burton at night.
Tuesday 17th July 1821
From Burton to [Strudlow, Stockton?]; and returned again to Burton that night.
Wednesday 18th July 1821
Left Burton early. Called at Bishton. Took Post Chaise from Wolseley Bridge bringing Mr Vaughan to Stone. Called at Parkfield again. Eliza and Anne being still there; and arrive at Linley Wood about nine o’clock. Mrs Stamford, Emma and Stamford were at Lawton Hall, where they had dined.
Thursday 19th July 1821
Engaged in the morning on various papers &c. Afterwards Stamford and I dined at the Roebuck, Newcastle at the Coronation Dinner which was very numerously and respectfully attended, and everything went off perfectly well and evincing the most sincere and ardent attachment to His Majesty and the Constitution. In the morning there had been a Military Display of the Yeomanry and Cavalry to the [privates, favourites?] of the former and a public dinner had also been given and tea to the women.
Friday 20th July 1821
At home. Mr Hostage paying off Mrs Stamford’s Mortgage for £3,000 except £75 a half year’s Interest disputed by Mr Wood and agreed to be left to Josiah Wedgwood Esq to settle. He also paid the 3rd Installment of £1,000 and then another step was made towards the final conclusion of this wretched and harassing business. Mr Hostage dined but returned to Burslem at night.
Wedgwood Archive
28-20543
20 July 1821
Memorandum regarding Hannah Stamford. Reads as follows:
Memorandum 20th July 1821
Then received from the written named Enoch Wood, the Elder, the sum of Three Thousand One Hundred Pounds Eleven Shillings and six pence being the principle money and all interest due on the bond bearing the date the sixth day of December 1792 mentioned and referred to in the written indenture (except the sum of Seventy five pounds half a years interest remaining to be settled on reference to Josiah Wedgwood Esquire.
Diary of James Caldwell
Saturday 21st July 1821
At home. Unwell but engaged much on Navigation papers particularly the letter to the land owners interested in the land to be taken for the additional Tunnel and Reservoir. Mr Smith, one of the Clerks in the Office in consequence of his dismissal at from his present situation. Long conversation with him and afterwards writing to Mr Vaughan. Eliza and Anne came from Parkfields to dinner. Stamford set off to[Haylake?].
Sunday 22nd July 1821
At home. Very unwell but Service as usual.
Monday 23rd July 1821
At home. Still unwell. W. Penlington on their affairs.
Tuesday 24th July 1821
At home. Unwell. Mr Vaughan on Navigation business..
Wednesday 25th July 1821
In the morning called at Lawton Hall. In the evening Mr Potter with the letters to Landowners relative to the proposed Tunnel and Reservoir for my signature as Chairman of the Select Committee.
Thursday 26th July 1821
Engaged examining the letters and signing the same. Afterwards went to Etruria to have spoken to Mr Jos Wedgwood on the Barron and Yoxall’s business and the reference to him of the disputed Interest between Miss Stamford and Mr Wood but he was not there. Called at the Brewery at Newcastle and long conversation with Rowland Bent relative to Shrewsbury Business and previous to my going there next week with Sir J H.
Next Diary of James Caldwell
38) of Linley Wood, Talke, Staffordshire, England.
The following is a transcription from the diary of James Caldwell. This volume covers the period 1821-1825 (191 pages). For transcriptions of other diaries and notes please click here (Index of notes and diaries of James Caldwell).
James Caldwell Diary: 1821-1825
Page 1 1821 Continued
Monday July 27 At home.
Saturday 28th July 1821
At Etruria speaking to Mr. Jos. Wedgwood relative to the reference to him of the intervention dispute between Miss Stamford & Mr. Wood which he undertook & also relatives to the money remaining there from the late Mr. Bann & Mr. Youall with a view to his ascertaining in what proportions the former payments had been made & which I had promised Mr. Sherratt to request him to look into.
Sunday 29 July 1821
Met Sir John Heathcote at Newcastle, & proceeded with him from thence to Shrewsbury, & arrived at the Lion Inn to dinner. Met there Dr. Bent of Macclesfield who attended as one of the Executors of the late Mr. Bent.
Monday 30 July 1821
Engaged on the Concerns of the Brewery which we found in such a state as to consider it necessary that the Executors should consult with Mr. Bent's Family & that a meeting of all Parties interested should then be held for the purpose of determining upon the measures to be adopted, it being very . . . that is could no longer be considered as at present with any continual prospect of . . .. Returned that night to Ternhill where we slept D. Bent accompanying us.
Tuesday 31 July 1821
Left Ternhill after Breakfast & got home to dinner. In the evening Mr. & Mrs. Wedgwood of Betley came. Arthur Marsh who we had expected by the Mail did not arrive.
August
Wednesday 1st August 1821
Engaged on Alsager Title in consequence of the intended Inclosure of the Commons. Afterwards went to Cliffe Ville, Miller to consult Mr. Tomlinson as to the Rights of Common etc. In the evening Arthur Marsh arrived.
Thursday 2 August 1821
. Set off early to attend Meeting of the Select Committee at Wolseley Bridge. Taking Mr. & Mrs. Thos. Sparrow from Newcastle & Mr. Vaughan from Stone. Attended meeting & returned home at night. Found Mr. & Mrs. Wedgwood gone.
Friday 3 August 1821
Arthur back and our dear Anne left Linley Wood on their return to London & this closed a Family Meeting from which every Member of it had long promised themselves the highest pleasure. But, alas this is a world of tremble & disappointments!
Attended Meeting at Alsager Lodge relative to the Enclosure of the Common & believed in a Clause in waiting in the usual form. Lord C. . . & Mr. Wilbraham there. With much pleasure and communication. The Scarlet Fever had appeared Emma caught it from a poor child - I took it from her though I flew with my children & fell ill 3 weeks afterwards at Miss Wedgwoods, the children were sent to their Aunt Maud & escaped after nursing.
Saturday 4 August 1821
At Cliffe Ville again consulting Mr. Tomlinson on Alsager business. Most tender nursing my mother brought me to Linley Wood from where Arthur fetched me.
Sunday 5 August 1821
At home. Service prevented by the arrival of William & Rowland Bent to consult Marsh Caldwell on Brewery Concerns & previous to a Meeting appointed to be held on Friday next at Stoneyfields of the Executors & other Parties. In the evening very unwell.
Monday 6 August 1821
So unwell, as to be in bed all the forenoon & prevented dining at the Rev. W Mainwarings of Wolstanton, which I had been some time engaged to do, but Stamford went.
Tuesday 7 August 1821
At home, so unwell as to be unable to attend the . . . at Newcastle. Capt. Wedgwood Eliza & I also dined. Engaged making my Will & Testament & on Navigation Papers.
Page 2. 1821 August
Wednesday 8 August 1821
At home. Still very unwell & in a state of great anxiety relative to the unfortunate state of the Brewery Concerns.
Thursday 9 August 1821
The same. Mr. Gidman dined.
Friday 10 August 1821
At Newcastle meeting Sir John Heathcote at the Roebuck & from thence to Stoneyfields meeting the three Executors of the late Mr. Bent, when after much discussion it was thought advisable that the Shrewsbury Concern should if possible be carried on under a different direction, but Mr. John Bent was requested to go to Shrewsbury to examine minutes into the actual state of of the Concerns, & to report thereon to Sir John Heathcote & myself. This he promised to do next week. Returned to dinner not unreasonably frightened & ill.
Saturday 11 August 1821
At home in the Morning ill. In the evening went with Eliza to Newcastle & executed a fresh will. Witnesses three of Miss Kinnersley's Clerks.
Sunday 12 August 1821
At home & miserably ill. Service omitted but . . . in the Evening.
Monday 13 August 1821
At home. Miserably ill and in bed the greatest part of the morning. Three Miss Hollands of Knutsford arrived in the Evening.
Tuesday 14 August 1821
The same. Mr. Bent came from Macclesfield with whom much conversation on the Brewing Concerns & he went on to Newcastle to speak to his Brothers.
Wednesday 15 August 1821
In the morning John William & Rowland Bent came. Still miserably ill Miss Hollands left Linley Wood & went to Mare Hall in the Carriage
Thursday 16 August 1821
At home. In the morning Miss Stamford & Emma set off into Wales. Still being ill.
Friday 17 August 1821
At home. The same.
Saturday 18
Entrusted myself so far as to go to Newcastle & had a long conversation with Mr. Hand at the Brewery, when it seemed too evident that little hope remained of any arrangement by matter with a view to carrying on the Concern. On my return called upon Sir John Heathcote, who was at Talk, with whom much conversation relative to the Shrewsbury Concern but no better prospect presented itself in this case than the other.
Sunday 19 August 1821
In the course of last night my Sufferings were all but insupportable & I abandoned all idea of being able to meet the Gentlemen of the Select Committee in the evening at Stone pursuant to the engagement for being tomorrow the situation of the proposed . . .
Page 3. 1821 August
Knipersley etc. but feeling some little better in the middle of the day, decided at all accounts to go & which I accordingly did taking her. I had Mr. Sparrow with me from Newcastle
Monday 20 August 1821
Set off from Stone a little after seven, having had some sleep. Went in the Boat at Etruria & from thence in Chassis to Knipersley. Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Webb, Sparrow, Potter, Vaughan, Mr. Lister not attending, & myself . . . the place & returned by Boat to Stoke, from whence Mr. Sparrow & I came by the Chassis, & I arrived at home in the Evening. We had at first intended going to Caldon Lowe & . . . Lake, but on consideration this was abandoned, there not appearing to be any adequate object in view, & much fatigued.
Tuesday 21 August 1821
Got some sleep but much disturbed & so being very unwell. Engaged on the Navigation Papers all morning & writing to Mr. Chetwynd with further minutes for his perusal. Writing other Letters but miserable ill and fatigued in mind and body.
Wednesday 22 August 1821
At home still ill.
Thursday 23 August 1821
The same.
Friday 24 August 1821
The same. In the afternoon Mr. Tomlinson amongst other things Mr. . . . agreed with me that Mrs. Penlington as the acting Executor now the wife of his with me. I . . . was the proper Party & given the Receipt for the Navigation Dividends & to transfer the Shares. In the morning we were sent to put off Mr. & Mrs. Swinton Holland 's visit to Linley Wood in consequence of my being so unwell, but being better this evening we determined to send again a request that they would come.
Saturday 25 August 1821
Better, but still far from well. In the evening Mr. & Mrs. Swinton Holland with them . . . Evans &Charlotte arrived at Linley Wood.
Sunday 26 August 1821
In the night heavy rain & a great change in the atmosphere from yesterday. Went cold. Mr. Wedgwood of Maer Hall & Jos. dined & staid all night.
Monday 27 August 1821
Ill. Mr. Sherratt & Ann & Betsy came from Nantwich which prevented the Hollands going to Knutsford this morning as they had intended doing.
Tuesday 28 August 1821
Early in the morning the Hollands went. Mr. Sherratt, Ann & Betsy went after dinner. Stamford who had arrived from Branston on Monday set off to Shrewsbury. Again unwell.
Wednesday 29 August 1821
Worse. At home.
Thursday 30 August 1821
Mr. Vaughan with the Notice to Parliament & which he set off to Chester in order to get the same inscribed in the . . . Chronicle. Though very unfit for it yet forced myself to go to Betley to make an . . . before Mr. Tollet to rectify on ones take with the purchase of Stock making & Miss Stamford in the name of Emma . . . , Margaret, Emma Caldwell. Eliza went with me, & we returned to dinner.
Page 4. 1821 August
Friday 31 August 1821
At home ill. Mr. Wedgwood of Bignall End relative to Turnpikes Gates intended to be set up on the Newcastle & Audley Road & payment of fourth part of the clearing due on his Mortgage & Bond.
September 1st September 1821
Saturday At home ill.
Sunday 2 September 1821
At home. Part service being too unwell to go through the whole. Wm. Penlington relative to the payment of such of his late fathers old Debts as remained and unchanged & which he approved of being immediately paid off.
Monday 3 September 1821
Still very unwell. Mr. Vaughan & Mr. Potter in consequence of my having discussed in error & had been committed in surfeit to the names of the Townships mentioned in the Notice which had been . . . in the Papers relative to the intended Navigation Bill. Also Mr. Johnson of the Hollins from whom are obtained the necessary information as to the tunnel, but Mr. Potter went to . . . to see Mr. . . . & obtain from him the requisite appointment as to the Dane Tender. Engaged all day on this his himself.
Tuesday 4 September 1821
Mr. Vaughan & Mr. Potter again closely engaged all morning finally settling the amended notice which required great care & attention & which Mr. Vaughan then set out with to Liverpool in order to a . . . & Mr. Chetwynd's, & afterwards assisted got . . . in the Chester Chronicle & Staffordshire Advertiser. Extremely unwell all day, being made much worse by the . . .which the above business had occasioned me.
Wednesday 5 September 1821
In the forenoon ill. . . .& Miss Sheridan called, when he informed me that he had returned & had settled on half pay & had taken the Horse at Wheelock. Eliza was out having set off to Newcastle & spoke to Mr. Jinks about the Dining Room Chimney. In the evening Mr. Vaughan again with the Notice which he had shown to Mr. Chetwynd & which was fully apparent by him in case the facts were correct. Appointed Mr. Vaughan to make further enquiries & to come again to Linley Wood on Saturday morning next.
Thursday 6 September 1821
Still very unwell but engaged much on Navigation Papers etc. Stamford arrived to dinner from Stafford Assizes .
Friday 7 September 1821
Heavy rain in the night. I was unable to attend Land Tax Meeting at Trentham Inn.
Saturday 8 September 1821
Mr. Vaughan again, when we finally fixed to take the Notice down to Crosby in order to settle the same Mr. Chetwynd & to set off tomorrow morning. In the evening prevailed on Eliza to accompany me.
Page 5. 1821 September
Sunday 9 September 1821
Mr. Vaughan came to lunch first. He & I with Eliza afterwards set off in the Carriage, but on getting within a short distance of Holmes Chapel the Iron tree of the Carriage gave way, & we were overturned. Fortunately however we all escaped unhurt. The horses which were from Talk on the Hill, being quiet & still. I lay myself upon one of the side sashes which was up, & which broke near me, but without doing more . . . them a very slight cut about the hip. We got another . . . & . . . from Brereton Green with which we provided . . . coming near to Crosby one of the springs broke & we had to walk about 2 miles. Arrived about 5 o'clock.
Monday 10 September 1821
At Crosby engaged with Mr. Chetwynd on the Notice which we finally settled & Mr. Vaughan took to Chester in order to get a Proof Sheet & which it was to send to us by a messenger to correct.
Tuesday 11 September 1821
Received the Proofs but which we corrected & returned to the Printer for insertion in the Chester Chronicle.
Wednesday 12 September 1821
After breakfast set off on our return home & where we arrived to dinner about 5 o'clock. Wrote afterwards to Mr. Vaughan. Though still very unwell I thought myself upon the whole . . . of the sea air while at Crosby is very fine & regretted that I could not stay a few days longer.
Thursday 13 September 1821
William Penlington on other affairs being unwell.
Friday 14 September 1821
Engaged on Navigation Papers. Wrote letters to Mr. Chetwynd & Mr. Vaughan, & corrected & confined the intended report of the Committee to the General Assembly.
Saturday 15 September 1821
At home.
Sunday 16 September 1821
At home. Service. Eliza & Mr. Pascoe came to dinner.
Monday 17 September 1821
At home. Much engaged on Navigation Papers.
Tuesday 18 September 1821
At home in the morning. The same particularly on the Dist. of the intended Report to the General Assembly. The weather which had been very unfavourable and injurious to the Harvest for some time past rather changed for the better.
Wednesday 19 September 1821
In the morning at home. Fine drying day with wind Eliza, Emma, Stamford and I dined at Clough Hall with a large party.
Thursday 20
At home. Engaged on Navigation Papers previous to meeting Mr. Webb at Stone tomorrow. The weather has changed again to heavy Rain & so bad as to destroy all hope of ever to harvest. Eliza, Emma, W Roscoe, Stamford & I dined at Lawton Hall. Met Mr. & Mrs. Willoughby . . ., Mr. & Mrs. . . etc.
Page 6. 1821 September
Friday 21 September 1821
Went to Stone early taking E. Roscoe to Parkfields. Met Mr. Webb at the Office with whom went through the various Accounts, Cash Book etc. & returned in the evening.
Saturday 22 September 1821
At home.
Sunday 23 September 1821
At home. Service. Stamford went to Chester. In the evening Mr. Roscoe & Eliza returned from Parkfields.
Monday 24
At Stone attending Meeting of the General Committee. Closely engaged all day.
Tuesday 25 September 1821
At Stone attending General Assembly held this day. Returned at night after I had days of hard Service.
Wednesday 26 September 1821
At home. Navigation Papers & matters.
Thursday 27 September 1821
At home. Mr. Roscoe set off to Liverpool.
Friday 28 September 1821
Began to carry Wheat. Miss Norton called at Linley Wood. Eliza & I called at Trentham. Jane Loss & Lady Stafford. Very pleasant reception. Mr. & Mrs. . . . of Keele were there on a call. The weather kept pleasantly good so that on our return I found that they had been carrying wheat all the morning, but in the evening it changed to much rain. I met Mr. & Mrs. Wedgwood of Betley at Linley Wood. Mr. Roscoe also came in the evening.
Saturday 29 September 1821
At home. Engaged with Mr. Wedgwood etc.
Sunday 30 September 1821
At home. Stamford returned from Chester.
October
Monday 1st October 1821
At Newcastle with letter received from Mr. Chetwynd & settling with Mr. Thos. Sparrow the Notices to be given in the Appeal between the Navigation & the Parish of . . .. Finished carrying wheat & oats.
Tuesday 2 October 1821
At home. Unwell & prevented attending the Mayor of Newcastle on the choosing of the new Mayor etc.
Wednesday 3 October 1821
At home. Engaged on Navigation Papers.
Thursday 4 October 1821
At home. The same.
Friday 5 October 1821
At home. The same & writing to Mr. Chetwynd in consequence of his having sent me Mr. Vaughan's opinion. Mr. Wedgwood of Bignall End paying further part of money due on his Bond & Mortgage.
Saturday 6 October 1821
At home. Engaged on case for Briefs in the Navigation & . . . Appeal.
Sunday 7. October 1821
In the morning Service. Afterwards at Newcastle attending the Mayor to Church & dined with him. Heard the enchantingly intelligence of the death of Mr. Rennie.
Page 7. 1821 October
Monday 8 October 1821
At Newcastle meeting Mr. Chetwynd for . . . & preparing Briefs in the . . . Appeal & also settling about observations to be sent to . . . with the case for his in consideration. Engaged several hours. Dined with Mr. Chetwynd at the Northwich. Happening that the leading Counsel Meeting at Derby were returned for the . . . , we thought it highly proper that some complaint & . . . heard & Mr. Vaughan obtained to attend for the company layout to work on Meeting of the Select Committee at Stone tomorrow to attend upon the same.
Tuesday 9 October 1821
At Stone attending meeting but Mr. Lister was not there, the letter to him not having been sent in time, have of opinion that Counsel . . . & previously bought. Returned home at night. Been of opinion that no further findings in the intended Bill & he suffered another year in consequence of the death of Mr. Rennie. On my arrival found a card from the family in Stamford communicates to me the death of Mr. Rennie.
Wednesday 10 October 1821
At home. Engaged on various matters.
Thursday 11 October 1821
At home. Mr. & Mrs. Goldsmith, Mr. & Mrs. Jos. Wedgwood, Jos. W. junior, Dr & Mrs. Belcombe & Mr. Kinnersly dined. The Wedgwood staid all night. In the morning Mr. A. Wilson called.
Friday 12 October 1821
In the forenoon at home. The two Mr. Wedgwoods went early leaving Mrs. W. Dined at the Red Bull it being the opening of the Lawton Hunt. At night Mr Vaughan came to me relative to the Trial of the Appeal at the approaching Derby Sessions & with . . . mention from Mr. Chetwynd. Detained long at the Red Bull till 12 o'clock on this business, writing observations & with my final instructions upon the case . . . promised this being left to my decision.
Saturday 13 October 1821
At home. Wm. Penlington dined.
Sunday 14 October 1821
At home. William & Roland Bent on Brewing Concerns. Afterwards Service. Stamford went to dine & stayed all night at Lord Staffords. .
Monday 15 October 1821
At home. Sent the Carriage to Stoneyfields for two Miss Bents of Derby who came to dinner. Two Miss Acklands, Jos. . . . & Harry Wedgwood dined.
Tuesday 16 October 1821
Miss Acklands & the Wedgwoods met after breakfast. Engaged on sundry Papers. Went afterwards to Alsager. Mr. & Mrs. Chas. Lawton called.
Wednesday 17 October 1821
At home. Sent the Carriage to Stoneyfields for Mrs. Bent who with her two eldest Daughters came to dinner. Engaged in the morning on various Papers, Letters etc. Finished turning wheel in Birchen Field next to the Turnpike Road.
Page 8 1821 October
Thursday 18 October 1821
At home. Mrs. & Miss Bent returned to Stoneyfields taking with them Miss Maria Bent of Derby.
Friday 19 October 1821
At home. Engaged on various matters.
Saturday 20 October 1821
At home. Mr. . . . Wilson dined & staid all night.
Sunday 21 October 1821
At home. Mr. Wilson observed the Smoke from the Steam Engine & made a minute of its offensiveness. He went after breakfast. Service. Stamford returned from Knutsford Sessions but not in time to see Mr. Wilson. Delivered to Mr. Wilson the account with Jane Ross, the Transfer of the Stock & sent him the balance of the account remaining due to her in order that he might finally settle this herself.
Monday 22 October 1821
At home. Attending Meeting of the Select Committee. Returned at night.
Tuesday 23 October 1821
Severe attack of Cold & Fever.
Wednesday 24 October 1821
Confined to my Room.
Thursday 25 October 1821
The same with great inflammation of the Chest.
Friday 26 October 1821
The same.
Saturday 27 October 1821
The same.
Sunday 28 October 1821
The same.
Monday 29 October 1821
The same.
Tuesday 30 October 1821
The same.
Wednesday 31 October 1821
In the morning went downstairs for the first time.
November
Thursday 1st November 1821
Went down to dinner. Stamford & Emma returned from Mare Hall.
Friday 2 November 1821
Mr. Wedgwood of Bignall End consulting relative to the Title to Coats in the Lodge Estate. Better but still suffering from the Chest. Received Scarfs, Hatband Elizabeth Miss Stamford Gloves on occasion of the death & funeral of Lady Fletcher.
Saturday 3 November 1821
At home.
Sunday 4 November 1821
At Talk Chapel in the afternoon Mr. Carter preached. Service at home omitted not being well enough to go through with it. Mr. Chas. Lawton relative to the Account with Anson & Porter whom the sum of £300 appeared to have been paid to them.
Monday 5 November 1821
At home. William Bent & John Blunt have . . . on their way to Macclesfield. Engaged on union papers.
Tuesday 6 November 1821
At home. Rode into the grounds. Setting out draining in the Land next to the Garden at the Farm. Johnson's Deeds. In the morning Mr. Wedgwood of Bignall End with Deeds relative to the Coals in the Lodge, so returned driving his Hanson.
Wednesday 7 November 1821
At home. Men began the draining. Samuel Beardsmore etc.
Thursday 8 November 1821
Eliza & I went to Nantwich to dinner.
Page 9. 1821 November
Friday 9 November 1821
At Dysart Buildings. Saw Mr. Wase relative to the Mansfield of the Navigation Shares late Penlingtons & appointed to . . . . . . tomorrow. Dined at Mr. Skerratts. Mr. Wm. Garnett & Miss Hammond.
Saturday 10 November 1821
Miss French not coming to Nantwich. Determined to stay in tomorrow & go to Bates Green which I did in the evening & finally agreed to have the Draft of the Transfer with Mr. Skerratt in order that it might be inspected by such person as Miss Wrench should appoint & which she promised should be done some day in the next week.
Sunday 11 November 1821
Returned home to dinner. At the Inn at Sandbach met with Col. & Mrs. . . and stopped half an hour with them.
Monday 12 November 1821
At home. Engaged with the draining etc.
Tuesday 13 November 1821
At home. Began laying Limestone on the Road from the House to the Farm. First picking up& breaking the stone under. Miss Wettenhall dined on account of the death of late Lady Fletcher.
Wednesday 14 November 1821
At Betley Court calling upon Mr. & Mrs. Twemlow & Miss Fletcher, Eliza Miss Stamford & I. Afterwards called at Betley Hall & saw Mrs. Tollet. Returned to dinner.
Thursday 15 November 1821
Eliza, Miss Stamford & Emma went to Newcastle. Called myself at Rode Hall but Mr. Wilbraham was out. Arranged Navigation Papers preparatory to the meeting on Monday.
Friday 16 November 1821
Rode on horseback to Newcastle. At the Brewery, Hemmings etc. Miss Stamford & Eliza & I off to Nantwich.
Saturday 17 November 1821
At home. Eliza called upon Mrs. . . . at Sandbach. Received letter from Mr. Vaughan informing me that the Executors of the Select Committee appointed for tomorrow was wished by Mr. Chetwynd & Mr Lister so he postponed.
Sunday 18 November 1821
At home. Service.
Monday 19 November 1821
At home. William Penlington on his concerns & particularly as to the sale to Mr. Morris of . . . Land.
Tuesday 20 November 1821
At home.
Wednesday 21 November 1821
At home. Farm etc.
Thursday 22 November 1821
At home. Closely engaged all morning on Accounts.
Friday 23 November 1821
At home.
Saturday 24 November 1821
t home.
Sunday 25 November 1821
At home. Service.
Page 10. 1821 November
Monday 26 November 1821
At Stoneyfield meeting Mr. Walthall, John William& Roland Bent on the Brewing Concerns, which now appears a most unfortunate & serious appearance. The loss upon each being very great & such upon the whole as very materially to affect my private circumstances & comfort in life. Mr. Walthall wrote to Sir John Heathcote preparatory to communication with him relative to Shrewsbury Concern. This like the others seeming the most improbable appearance. Eliza who had accompanied me & I dined at Stoneyfields & returned at night.
Tuesday 27 November 1821
Though very unfit for it, attended Meeting of Commissioners for Measure of Alsager Heath. Col. Peyon, Mr. Wilbraham etc. was there. The former informed me that the Lands which I had purchased from Mr. Peats formerly part of Lord . . . Estate & under the same stipulation of with respect to the Common & Mines as the others. Of this I had no knowledge or notice whatever as the time I purchased, I told him that I did not think it valid, as particularly acquired a purchase as for a valuable consideration. Promise Mr. Wilbraham to dine at Rode Hall on Friday, which he wished me to do & . . . Mrs. Reade.
Wednesday 28 November 1821
At home.
Thursday 29 December 1821
At home. Mr. Walthall & Wm. Bent with whom engaged again on the miserable Concerns of the Breweries. They dined & staid all night.
New Times (London)
Thursday 29 November 1821
This Day is Published, price 12s. boards
A Digest of the Laws Relating to the Poor
By J. Stamford Caldwell - of Lincoln's Inn, Esq. Barrister at Law.London:
Printed for J. Butterworth and Son, 43 Fleet Street.
Stamford Caldwell's second book.
"A Digest Relating to the Poor" 1821
Stamford Caldwell's second book.
Diary of James Caldwell continues...
Friday 30 November 1821
In the morning engaged again with Mr. Walthall & Wm. Bent but who left Linley Wood in the forenoon. Afterwards Mr. . . . inspecting Plan of Alsager Estate taking the quantities of the Land with a view to ascertaining the proportion of Common to be allotted in respect of it & the Mines of The Manor and draining Common myself. Mr. . . . assured me that no other use should be made of the particulars or copy of the Plan which he had taken.
Dined at Rode Hall met Sir Thomas Reade, Mr. & Mrs. Swettenham, Rev & Mrs. Gregory a Mr. Tillend a Nantwich Gentleman, Mrs. . . . etc. I had dined with Sir Thomas Reade at Rode Hall about nine years ago.
Having here a principal share in the country of Bonaparte at St Helena. I had much conversation with him after dinner relative to that extraordinary Person. He said that he was dreadfully . . . of his Confinement & was continually intriguing to get the Courts of Europe to interfere for his Liberation. That & Maria was his great agent. They have found one letter served up in a piece of Tatton Park of a young Boys . . .coat who was to be sent from the Island & which had nearly been affected. Bonaparte was
Page 11. 1821 November
moderated in his eating & drinking. He drank daily about three parts a bottle of Claret. That whatever he said or did had design it . . . Sir . . . Reades expression he did not move his little finger without design.
That he gave his illness the pain attending which must have been very great, with great fortitude never endured acknowledging that he supposed pain for that said he was present when the Body was opened. That the Stomach was conceived he being the breadth of two hands. That his life had been perceived for some time in a most extraordinary manner by the look of the liver being sucked into & filling up a hole in the stomach nearly large enough to admit the little finger, & which had been eaten by the disease.
That Bonaparte was quite aware of the nature of his complaint which I think was a family one & that it would be fatal to him & directed his body to be opened to see whether from the inspection any . . . could be devised that might be useful to any other of his family who might be.
That he so willingly spoke of his illness as a Liver Complaint brought on by his confinement & which was the plight he made as in for his liberation or removal of the . . . affected by it.
That he was very anxious to complete his . . . to the Courts of Europe interposing on his behalf. Remains of which he did & the transcript was delivered to . . . & he sent to the family.
But that . . .having got possession of the . . . still contains it, with a . . . as is supposed to the publication of the . . . for his can . . . . . ., and . . . to give it up. He said Bonaparte's private fortune was . . . & . . . the efforts for his liberation & . . . was totally disregarded.
He stated his fortune at 97,000,000 of Francs or upwards of £4,000,000 . . .. He said . . . was a very clever man, but of . . . he spoke in terms of great reprobation. Sir . . said he did not think Bonaparte had much or any religious belief, but he professed the Roman Catholic.
December
Saturday 1st December 1821
At home. Liverpool Brewery Papers. Draft of final Return etc.
Sunday 2 December 1821
At home. Service. The noise & smoke of the steam engine particularly offensive & . . . the same all day & being unwell myself.
Monday 3 December 1821
At home. Engaged again on Liverpool Brewery Papers.
Page 12. 1821 December
Tuesday 4 December 1821
At home. Jas.. Massey relative to taking the House & Land n the holding of Moses Barlow. When I . . . him to . . . whether Moses intended to leave it this day. Mr. Massey said that on coming to the House this morning the smoke & smell from the Steam Engine was very disagreeable & offensive. Sent letters & Draft of Return to Mr. Denison. Miss Stamford & Emma returned from Nantwich.
Wednesday 5 December 1821
At home. Engaged slowly in morning on Navigation Papers of the late Mrs. Tollets.
Thursday 6 December 1821
At home.
Friday 7 December 1821
At home.
Saturday 8 December 1821
At home. Closely engaged all morning with Mr. Robert Heath on the Plans of the Mines in Harecastle Hill through which the intended new Tunnel would pass. Estimates of the Coals etc. etc.
Mr. Heath received the Woodfield Colliery Engine with me. Said the smoke & noise might easily be prevented. Considered them great nuisances.
After Mr. Heath was gone serviced the Plans etc. but finding some difficulty in reconsidering my calculations relative to the Coals with Mr. Heath's. Sent to desire that he would come over again tomorrow morning.
After dinner received from Mr. Thomas Sparrow intelligence of the death of his Brother who died at about half past ten o'clock this morning without any suffering. He had had a slight cold for some days, but was not so unwell as to go out the least oppression was about an hour before his dissolution.
Sunday 9 December 1821
Mr. Heath came again with whom engaged a considerable time when we reconciled the differences between his calculations & my own & which was owing to his not having . . . one that allowance to smoke for the . . . of the Mines. Afterwards dined as usual. Set off in the afternoon to Stone. Called upon Mr. & Mrs. Sparrow. Got to Stone 6 & 7 0'clock & engaged all evening with the Mr. Vaughan on . . . papers etc. preparatory to the General Assembly tomorrow.
Monday 10 December 1821
At Stone. Attending General Assembly with much difficulty prevailed upon Lord Harrowby to take the chair. Long & . . . engaged . . . in explaining the Plans of the Mines. Calculations etc. which I was must . . .in doing by a little Sketch which I had myself drawn & which with my observations seemed to be much approved. Lord Harrowby . . . expressing himself on very handsome & gratifying terms. Dined at Stone & returned at night.
Tuesday 11
Closely engaged all day particularly on the . . . & navigation dispute as to the . . . from Mr. Wood to Miss Stamford. Went to Mr. Wedgwood to whom it had been referred thereon. Went also to Mr Tomlinson & Mr. Kinnersley. To the latter on the tithe compensation. Mrs. Barlow & Mr. Boardman relative to continuing or quitting the Public House at Talk but did not decide any thing today. Mr. F.Twemlow called.
Wednesday 12 December 1821
Closely engaged in morning on papers relative to the regulations dispute of Miss Stamford's Interest. Stamford came to dinner. Received a Card requesting my attendance at the Funeral of the late Mr. Sparrow on Monday next at 12 o'clock
Thursday 13 December 1821
At home. Engaged again on Papers closely the whole of the day.
Friday 14 December 1821
At Cliffe Ville relative to the above matter, when it was agreed that I should meet Mr. Wedgwood & Mr. Tomlinson on Wednesday next at 12 o'clock.
Called upon Mr. Smith at Newcastle & delivered to him the Navigation Report with instructions relative to the printing.
Sent a card by Stamford to Mr. Kinnersley excusing my not dining with him today to mark the Mayor & Consort of Newcastle as he had invited me to do. Wrote to Mr. Lister declining a very kind invitation to dine & sleep at Armitage Park on occasion of my attending the Funeral of the late Mr. Sparrow.
Saturday 15 December 1821
At home.
Sunday 16 December 1821
n the morning William & Roland Bent came, chiefly relative to the advertisement of the Salopian Brewing Shares belonging to the late Mr. Bent, & which I instructed. They dined & I afterwards went to Stone on my way to Bishton. to attend the Funeral of the late Mr. Sparrow. Took to Mr. Thos. Sparrow from Newcastle. In the evening engaged with Mr. Vaughan.
Page 14. 1821 December
Monday 17 December 1821
Went from Stone to Wolsley Bridge & from thence on to Bishton. On my arrival was sent for by Mr. Chetwynd with whom a Mr. . . .. I spent the greatest part of the morning. The latter particularly kind & friendly & expressed great pleasure at seeing me again.
Mr. Chetwynd said that I was requested to go in the Mourning Coach with the three Executors, Mr. Littleton, Mr. Sneyd of Ashcombe & Mr . . . of Anglesey as the particular private friend of the late Mr. Sparrow & the Family & which I accordingly did.
Then proceeded to Colwich where Mr. Sparrow was interred in a vault in the Churchyard containing the remains of the late Mrs. Macdonald consisted of . . . . Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Macdonald, Thomas Sparrow & Mrs. Chetwynd & . . . followed in another Mourning Coach by the three Executors & myself & there was also a Mourning Coach with family servants.
The Principal Persons who attended were Mr. Lister, Mr. Webb, Mr. . . . of Stafford, Mr. Hales of Cobridge who followed us, T. Swinnerton of Newcastle & a great number of Tenants etc. The whole was being proper & handsome.
At the request of the Family I had agreed to stay the night, but Mr. Thos. Sparrow having . . . to return I thought it upon the whole . . . to come back with him & we accordingly returned to Stone. Mrs. Sparrow however having expressed a wish to see me. I went to her. She was greatly affected at seeing me and used many strong expressions as to the regard & esteem entertained for . . . & constantly expressed by the late Mr. Sparrow.
Our assignations which had been of long standing, having commenced in February 1777 then I was a Clerk to him. He was in his 85th year which he would have completed on the 6 of February next. In the course of conversation in the morning Mr. Littleton said, 'I may tell you Mr. Caldwell for your interpretation that that the Grand Junction Canal is considered to be the best conducted of any in the Kingdom.'
Tuesday 18 December 1821
Engaged with Mr. Vaughan & afterwards returned home to dinner. In the evening engaged on Papers previous to meeting Mr. Wedgwood tomorrow morning in Cliffe Ville on the . . . & variations dispute relative to Miss Stamford's interest.
Wednesday 19 December 1821
At Cliffe Ville. Met Mr. Wedgwood. Long explanation of the the business to him, showing him the Deed of Dissolution etc.& returned to dinner, faded & fatigued with the having of this & the proceeding days & far from well. Left with Mr. Tomlinson at the request of Mr. Wedgwood my Accounts Book with the later Partnership of Wood & Caldwell.
Thursday 20 December 1821
At home. Engaged on various matters & Papers. Wrote to Mr. Simpson of Birmingham relative to Canal Act received from him & to Mr. Vaughan.
Friday 21 December 1821
In the morning went to Newcastle finally connecting with Mr. Smith the Proof Sheet of the Navigation Report, and giving directions for the printing. The morning being wet & stormy, took the Talk Chaise & Eliza accompanied me to Newcastle.
Saturday 22 December 1821
At home. Mr. Charles Lawton dined & staid the night.
Sunday 23 December 1821
In the morning attended service at Talk Chapel.
Page 15. 1821 December
Monday 24 December 1821
At home. Engaged on Navigation Papers etc. & preparing Case & information relative to the Company's Laws to purchase Land without measuring the population of the . . . Act.
Tuesday 25 December 1821
At home. Christmas Day
Wednesday 26 December 1821
Set off early to Stone to attend meeting of the Select Committee. Met Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Lister & Mr. Webb. Mr. Sneyd of . . . also there. Mr. Chetwynd on the behalf of the Executors of the late Mr. Sparrow delivered into my hands the Seals of the Company as Chairman of the Committee in the . . . of Mr. Sparrow. Engaged all day & slept at home, the other Gentlemen going away after dinner.
Wedgwood Archives
28-20548
26 December 1821
Letter from Miss Hannah Stamford to Josiah Wedgwood regarding a dispute over the sum paid by Wood & Caldwell to Miss Stamford.
Diary of James Caldwell
Thursday 27 December 1821
Engaged again with Mr. Vaughan. Afterwards went to Bishton to call upon Mr. & Mrs. Sparrow, both of whom seemed much pleased with the attention. Long conversation Mrs. Sparrow who used many strong expressions of support & . . . for me, and spoke much of the respect entertained for me by the late Mr. Sparrow. Found Mrs. Chetwynd & Miss Moreton at Bishton & Mr. Sneyd of . . . & Mr. Lander. Returned to Stone. Mr. Vaughan with whom I had again business dined with me at the farm & I returned home at night though very dark & wet.
Friday 28 December 1821
At home. Closely engaged all morning on Navigation & other matters. Mr. . . . Mr. Jno. Sneyd of . . . & Mr. Clement, & Mr. Jno. Kinnersly of Loxley came to dinner & afterwards went with Eliza & Emma, Miss Stamford & Stamford to Newcastle Assembly.
Saturday 29 December 1821
Again closely engaged. Wrote long letter to Mr. Tomlinson relative to the Reference & usual other Letters. Stamford & I dined at Lawton Hall. Met Col. . . . , Mr. Kinnersley etc.
Sunday 30 December 1821
At home. Service.
Monday 31 December 1821
At home. Closely engaged at the desk all morning.
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Heath-Caldwell All rights reserved.
Michael Heath-Caldwell M.Arch
Brisbane, Queensland
ph: 0412-78-70-74
alt: m_heath_caldwell@hotmail.com