Michael D.Heath-Caldwell M.Arch.

1828

Hannah Stamford of Linley Wood - 74/75 - Sister of Elizabeth Caldwell (ne Stamford)

Elizabeth Caldwell (Bessy) of Nantwich -  61/62 - Sister of James Caldwell

James Caldwell of Linley Wood - 68/69

Elizabeth Caldwell (ne Stamford) of Linley Wood - 73/74 

Hannah Eliza Roscoe - age 42/43           - daughter of James and Elizabeth C.

James Stamford Caldwell - age - 41/42   - son of James and Elizabeth C.

Lady Margaret Emma Holland (ne Caldwell) - age - 35/36     - daughter of James and Elizabeth C.

Arthur Cuthbert Marsh - age 41/42   (London)

Anne Marsh-Caldwell – age 36/37 – (Lady Mary’s mother)(Londonj)

Eliza Louisa Marsh-Caldwell – known as Louisa –  age 9/10 

Frances Mary Crofton (ne Marsh) - age 8/9 

Georgina Amelia Marsh-Caldwell – Gies – age 7/8 

Rosamond Marsh-Caldwell – Posy - age 4/5 

Martin William James Marsh - age 2/3 

Mary Emma Marsh (Lady Mary  E. Heath) – age 1/2 

Hannah Adelaide Loring (ne Marsh) - age 0 

Diary of James Caldwell

Page 45. January  1828

Tuesday 1^st January 1828

At home.  Mr. Hughes' Assistant with the Proof Sheet of the circular Letter, which he left for my revision and correction, and on which afterwards engaged.  Engaged also on annual Accounts etc. etc.  Stamford dined.

Wednesday 2^nd January 1828

Went to Newcastle again, with the proof sheet of the circular Letter & giving directions for various Corrections etc.  Called also upon Mr. Wilkinson & considered with him the Clause in the Act 6. Sec. 3 relative to the appointment of Clerk, when we considered, that for further safety it would be right to the opinion of Mr. Harrison upon it.  Stamford dined.

Thursday 3^rd January 1828

Mr. Hughes Assistant brought the proof sheet as corrected which I again carefully perused & still found some vital alterations necessary, which I made & then returned him the proof & of which he promised to to let me have another this Evening .  Mr. Booth came & with whom engaged on various matters respecting the Buildings at the Hollins, Alsager Farm etc.  In the evening Mr. Hughes assistant brought the corrected proof Sheet.  In the morning Stamford went to Newcastle.

Friday 4^th January 1828

Perused & finally settled & corrected the Circular Letter.  Mr. James Potter came with Notice which he had received from Mr. Heathcote not to enter upon his Land for making the Macclesfield Canal till satisfaction was made for the Mines which he was about to get. 

Considered the business carefully with James Potter & then directed him to call immediately upon Mr. Wilkinson, as the Company's Solicitor with the Notice, for his consideration on their behalf expressing at the same time my opinion that the purchase Money for the Land according to the valuation delivered by Mr. Booth as the [Referee] of Mr. Heathcote, should be immediately . . .,& that the boat might then be safely proceeded with a request that he would put down Miss Stamford's name & my own for £5.5 each as subscribers to the erection of the North Staffordshire Infirmary Fever Wards, & to Miss Ball relative to the House upon Newcastle [Road] (Page 46.) requesting to know in whose name an Agreement was to be entered into, & who was to be Security for the payment of the Rent etc. in order that the matter might be finally settled in some way or other.  Sent these Letters by Mr. James Potter, to be put in the Office at Newcastle.

Saturday 5^th January 1828

Thinking it proper to confer with Mr. Wilkinson relative to the business with Mr. Heathcote, went to Newcastle early, & considered the matter with him & showed him the Report made by Mr. Heath & Mr. Skerratt, when he said that he would see Mr. Heathcote & which he expected to do in the course of the day. 

Called on Mr. Hyde & finally settled as to the printing etc. of the circular Letter.  Wrote from Newcastle to Mr. Vaughan requesting to see him on Monday morning next on this & several other matters, & for which purpose, I wrote to Mr. Bent postponing my engagement at Macclesfield to Tuesday the day following.  Mr. Skerratt left us on his return to Nantwich.  Stamford came to dinner.

Sunday 6^th January 1828

At home.  Service.  Stamford.

Monday 7^th January 1828

Mr. Vaughan came early, & with whom engaged closely all Morning, signing 400 circular Letters & arranging with Mr. Vaughan the sending them out etc.  Wrote also to Sir George Chetwynd & desired Mr. V. to send my Letter, with 20 of the circulars to Sir George. 

Mr. Vaughan . . .but could not stay to dinner.  Afterwards engaged preparatory to going to Macclesfield tomorrow on annual Settlement of Brewery Account.  Delivered to Miss Stamford the Declaration of Trust Transfer etc. from J. G. Caldwell of the Navigation Shares, in . . .of these transferred by him to Mr. Spode.

Tuesday 8^th January 1828

Went to Macclesfield & engaged all day examining Brewery Accounts.  Wm. Bent, James & I & afterwards dined at the Hotel, where I slept.

Wednesday 9th January 1828

Finally settled annual Accounts & signed the Balance Sheet as usual.  On my way home called at Lawton Hall, & arrived at Linley Wood to dinner.

Page 47.  1828  January

Thursday 10^th January 1828

At home.  Mr. James Potter came relative to Mr. Heathcotes Mines & the regulatory Lock with whom engaged some time & lent him my Macclesfield Canal Act, desiring him again to see Mr. Wilkinson, & request his intention to the business of the Mines.  Afterwards engaged arranging Account, Rents etc. of the Mortgage.  Wrote to Mr. Balgary.  Mr. Henshall paying Rent of the piece of Land called the Broadbent.  Fine frosty day.  Miss Stamford & Bessy went to Newcastle.  Men busy carrying out manure.  Letter from Revd. Mr. Aitkins requesting allowance of Tonnage on Nantwich for a new Church at [Hanley].

Friday 11^th January 1828

Wrote to Mr. Ball per Samuel Jones accepting him Tenant of the House upon the Marsh.  N.B. In the night Snow.  Closely engaged all day on Accounts.  Mr. Vaughan who had engaged to dine here on his return from Runcorn did not come.  Severely cold day.

Saturday 12^th January 1828

Went to the Revd. Mr Aitkins.  Also to Dr. Holland.  Engaged again on Accounts.  Sudden Thaw.

Sunday 13^th January 1828

In the last night violent Rain.  At home.  Service as usual.

Monday 14^th  January 1828

Copied afresh the Proceedings of the late adjourned General Assembly, & of the last Select Committee, & sent them by Post to Mr. Vaughan with a Letter to him.  Read & considered at the request of J.T.C. The Brief which he had received from Mr. Tomlinson (& who he also desired my perusal of) & from the appeal at the next Sessions against the Poor Rate in the Parish of Stoke upon Trent, & making observations thereon.

Tuesday 15^th January 1828

James Potter came to Breakfast & with whom engaged a considerable time relative to the cause to be pursued with respect to Heathcotes Mines & other matters.  Mr. H. having suggested a Reference to Mr. Heath & Mr. Boughey, I referred this to the consideration of the Select Committee, & desired J.P. to go down & inspect the Pit first opened by Mr. H. & also to see Mr. Daniel Eardley & obtain any further information in his power relative to the value of the Coals. 

Perused & considered again Mr. Tomlinson Brief & finished observations theron for J.S.C. who came to dinner, & to whom I delivered the same.  Received by Post Letter from Mr. Vaughan, also from Mr. J. Phillips, Mayor of Newcastle requesting my attendance at the Sessions on Tuesday next, there being much business & several Cases Of Felony.

Wednesday 16^th January 1828

At home.  Wrote to Mr. . . .[Birth] & remitted Mr. Caldwell's Interest.  Mr. Smith & Mrs. Baddeley to consult relative to property at Mear Lake.  Engaged on final Settlement of Gower Street Account.

Page 48.  1828  January

Thursday 17^th January 1828

At home.  Engaged closely all Morning on Gower Street & Miss Stamford's Accounts which were finally arranged, settled & signed.  Samuel Jones consulting me on the Will of John Griffiths, When I promised to write to Mr. Smith of Eccleshall, as to the receipts of a [surrender] to the use of the . . .the property being copyhold.

Friday 18^th January 1828

Wrote to Mr. Smith.  Engaged on Trademens Accounts & drawing orders on Kinnersleys for the same.  Mr. Potter & James Potter came & with whom engaged a considerable time relative to Mr. Heathcotes Mines, & other matters preparatory to the Meeting of the Select Committee on Monday next.  Afterwards engaged making Minutes & . . .of the Business to be brought before the Meeting.  Received by Post Letter from Sir George Chetwynd from . . .,with a Plan of the Canals, informing me also that no notice had been put upon the [Sessions ]Development of the intended Canal & mentioning that Mr. Booth & Mr. . . .very highly approved of my Circular.

Saturday 19^th January 1828

Went to Newcastle.  Saw Mr. Wilkinson, when we agreed that the best course to be pursued with respect to Mr. Heathcotes Mines was to take all the regular steps for bringing the Case before a Jury, comparably to the direction of the Act of Parliament.  Paid off Tradesmens Annual Bill.  Saw the Mayor with whom I had some conversation relative to the Cases of Felony to be tried at Newcastle Sessions on Tuesday next, & when I promised to attend.

Sunday 20^th January 1828

At home.  Service.

Monday 21^st January 1828

I this day completed the 69th year of my age.  Went to Stone where engaged all day on the Select Committee.

Tuesday 22^nd January 1828

Brought Sir George Chetwynd in the Carriage to Newcastle.  Attended the Sessions at Newcastle. 2 Convictions for Felony & one for assault.  Dined afterwards with the Mayor at the Castle Inn.  Speaking of the Battle of Waterloo with Captain Blacklands who was present, he said that if [Groundings] Corps had attempted to go into the Action, there was a Corps prepared & sending to intercept them.  Returned home at night & found Stamford who had just arrived from Stafford.

Wednesday 23^rd January 1828

Fatigued & not well.  Perused & considered the Oxford Canal Case.

Thursday 24^th January 1828

Received Letter from Mr. Twemlow relative to the [Misinformation] contained in the Chester Chronicle of January 11, as to Licences, Tonnage etc. upon the Trent (Page 49) Mersey Canal & wrote to him.  Engaged on sundry occasional matters.  Again Rain.

Friday 25^th  January 1828

At home.  Looked over Papers preparatory to observations in reply to Mr. Stantons Letter in the Chester Chronicle, in case any notice of it to be deemed proper.  Mrs. Martin & Wm. Martin came to dinner.  Sent the Carriage for them.  Began the alteration of the Flower Garden before the Dining Room window.

Saturday 26^th January 1828

At home.  Unwell.  In the house all day.

Sunday 27^th January 1828

At home.  Still unwell.  Service.  Received Letter from Mr. Ball proposing to meeting with the House upon the Marsh.  In the evening Stamford went to his new habitation at Rode Heath.

Monday 28^th January 1828

James Potter came relative to entering upon Mr. Heathcotes Land & valuation of Mr. Lawton's Land & Mines etc. etc. when I directed him to see Mr. Heathcote again previous to doing anything on his Land, though I had understood Mr. H. when I accidentally saw him at Newcastle on Tuesday last, that he should not object to our going on with the work. 

Directed James Potter also to apply again to Mr. Heaton for his valuation of Mr. Lawtons Land & Mines.  The two Mr. [Gaytons] to consult me on the matter in Chancery of [Cartlick] a [Locomotive], & to request me to . . .the Committee of his [Estates] etc. but which I declined entirely.  Still unwell, & confined to the House all day.  Wrote to Mr. Ball by the Post in reply to his Letter & declining to take the House into my [overheads].  Mrs. [Trent] requesting my assistance in procuring [attention] for her son.

Tuesday 29^th January 1828

Still unwell.  Revised & copied afresh the Minutes of the last Select Committee Meeting.  Again looked over Mr. Stantons Letter in the Chester Chronicle.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan thereon, & correcting Minutes, but Mr. Vaughan unexpectedly coming to dinner, to consult me on several matters I delivered the Minutes & Letter to him.  Engaged with Mr. Vaughan who returned home in the evening.

Wednesday 30^th January 1828

Still unwell.  Wrote to Mr. Ball.  Engaged on private Accounts.  Miss Stamford & I dined at Dr. Northen's.  Met Mr. & Mrs. Wedgwood, Revd. Mr. & Mrs. Butt, Miss Moreton & Miss Charlotte Chetwynd & Capt. Neale.  Received by Post Letter from Mr. Wilkinson relative to Mr. Heathcotes Mines.

Thursday 31^st January 1828

James Potter, to whom I communicated Mr. Wilkinson's Letter, & another matters.  Suggested to him his Father's Resignation.  Afterwards called at Lawton Hall with Eliza, & to have spoken to Mr. C.L. about the Land for the Canal, but Mr. & Mrs. Lawton were out.  Received in the evening Mr. Heatons valuation of such Land from James Potter.

February

Friday 1^st February 1828

At home.  Engaged selecting & arranging Papers relative to the proposed London & Birmingham Junction Canal, to be in readiness for the next Meeting of the Delegates.  Mrs. & Miss Wedgwood of Maer Hall came to dinner.  Spoke to John Davies, & agreed to give him a Trial as Butler in the room of John Dickinson.  At night storm of Rain with Thunder & Lightening.

Saturday 2^nd February 1828

At home.  Mrs. & Miss Wedgwood went after breakfast.  Mr. Wicksteads Foxhounds met at Lawton, & having found . . .the Fox to the Earth in the Firwood, affording a fine view of the Chase, The Fox coming into the Ground before the House, when I accidentally located him, & he then passed through Linley Meadow.  Having found another Fox in Alsager . . .he took the same course, the Fox & the Hounds coming again before, & almost close to the House, but the earth in the Firwood having been stopped at Mr. . . .request, the Fox was killed in the [Silver] Wood just below. 

Very fine day & a large Field of Horsemen.  Received Votes from House of Commons.  Mr. Latham of Talke brought his Boy, & who I engaged.  Wages left to me . . .of him.

Sunday 3^rd February 1828

At home.  Service.

Monday 4^th February 1828

At home.  Settled & found John Dickinson's Account on his leaving his place.  Perused papers with a view to preparing a Case on behalf of the Navigation Company, to be in readiness if wanted this Session.  Engaged on the Farm.  Mrs. Moreton & Miss Charlotte Chetwynd called.  Dickinson went.

Wednesday 6^th February 1828

Arranging & perusing various Navigation Papers.  Went to Lawton & called upon James Potter, relative to the Valuation of Mr. Lawtons Mines, when I desired him to see Mr. Skerratt again, & call upon me on Saturday in order that I might be prepared to trust with Mr. L. for the Land.

Thursday 7^th February 1828

Went to Betley Court to dinner.  Met Mr. & Mrs. Tollet, Miss Tollet & Miss F. T., Revd. Mr.& Mrs [Fieldon] & Revd. Mr. Mainwaring.

Friday 8^th February 1828

Returned home to dinner.  Received Letter from Sir George Chetwynd relative to the Meeting of Delegates.

Saturday 9^th February 1828

Wrote to Sir George Chetwynd.  James Potter came relative to the Agreement for Mr. Lawtons Land, when I desired him to see Mr. L. & show him Mr. Heatons valuation & say that I should be happy to confer with Mr. L whenever it might be convenient to him.

Sunday 10^th February 1828

At home.  Service.

Dr. Foster observes "that where Mystery begins, Religion ends."Pol. Dist. Vol 1683.  Mr. G. Dawson in his Speech on the Catholic Claims 5 July, describes the principle of Protestation to be _______' that every Man has a right to worship God according to the dictates of his own conscience, and to exercise his judgement freely in matters of religious beliefs.'  This is what I call the distinguishing feature National Dissent.

Monday 11^th February 1828

Mr. James Potter relative to the completion of purchase of Lands from Mr. Lawton, who had promised again to consult Mr. [Rimmer].  Engaged on the Penlington Papers.  A heavy snow had fallen in the night accompanied with Frost.

Tuesday 12^th February 1828

Received & considered Plans & Reports in order to ascertain whether any or what shortenings could be expediently made on the line of Canal from  [Findley] to Preston Brook, in order to having prepared to speak to this point at the next Meeting of Delegates.  At home all day.

Wednesday 13^th February 1828

Engaged all morning selecting & addressing Navigation Papers with a view to a general arrangement of them.  Letter from Sir George Chetwynd by Post.

Thursday 14^th February 1828

Violent Shower of Snow & Wind.  Engaged on various matters.

Friday 15^th February 1828

At home.  The like.

Saturday 16^th February 1828

Wrote to Wm. Bent, & sent him the further [call] of 10 per share on my 10 shares of the Macclesfield Canal standing in his name.  Frost.  Stamford came late at night.  Mr. Latham came to his place as post boy.

Sunday 17^th February 1828

Service.  Stamford.  Letter from Mr. [Lawrence], L & B proposed Canal.  "Let us always remember that the great and principal thing the (Page 52) Gospel requires, is not Speculation, but Practice, that it does not aim so much at the rectifying our opinions, as the regulating of our measures.  Let us therefore find Religion on its true foundation, & place it in the heart more than the head.  We shall then cast off all nervousness of spirit which cramps our thoughts and confines  our Understandings to the particular system of this or that sect and party of Christians, and thus ,and this only, may we hope to see primitive Christianity restored amongst us."  Mr. Hagley D.D.

Monday 18^th February 1828

Severe Frost.  James Potter, with whom I made an arrangement for finally completing the purchase from Mr. Lawton's purchasing of the Land for the Canal.  Received by Post Letter from Sir George Chetwynd.  Stamford left us.

Tuesday 19^th February 1828

Wrote to Sir George Chetwynd & Mr. Lister.  Wrote also to Mr. [Balgary].  At home.  Revd. James Armistead & the Revd. Edward Powys called with presentation of the former Vicarage of Sandbach vacant by the death of the late Mr. Salmon & which I executed as a to Trustee with Mr. Tollett of this Presentation under the Will of the late Revd. Mr. Armistead.

Wednesday 20^th  February 1828

Frost & Snow continuing to go very finally.  At home all day.  Received Letters from Mr. Lister appointing to meet at Leamington on the Evening of the 27th & from Sir George Chetwynd inclosing a Copy of a Resolution of the Oxford Canal Company at a Meeting held on the 13, adopting Mr. . . .Report, according to which a Shortening of about 12 miles might be affected on their Canal, & for applying to Parliament in the next Session.

Thursday 21^st February 1828

Wrote to Mr. Lister & to Mr. Vaughan.

Friday 22^nd February 1828

At home.  Affected by a pain in my side, which I had full some days.

Saturday 23^rd  February 1828

At home.  Engaged on Navigation Papers & drawing Minutes of a Resolution to be submitted to the Meeting of Delegates at Leamington on the 28 inst.

Page 53.  1828  February

Sunday 24^th February 1828

At home.  Service.  Received by Post a Letter from Mr. Thomas Lister dated yesterday informing me of the illness of his Father, who had been seized suddenly on Wednesday Morning with a severe [bilious] attack, & which had confined him to his Bed & which would prevent his meeting me at Leamington.  That being me desirous not having the operation intended, a second Physician had been called in, but that there was no fever or apparent tendency to inflammation.  A Letter, however from Mr. [Landor], received also by this Post & dated today, informing me of the melancholy event of Mr. Listers death this morning.

New page, no number.

Monday 25^th February 1828

At home.  Busily engaged all morning on Navigation Papers preparatory to the Meeting at Leamington, & drawing Minute of Resolution to be submitted to the consideration of the Delegates, but feeling sensibly the loss which I had sustained by the death of W.L. & whose place it will be found very difficult to fill up.

Tuesday 26^th February 1828

At home.  Again engaged on Navigation Papers etc. etc.

Wednesday 27^th February 1828

Set off early.  Took up Mr. Vaughan at Stone & arrived at Leamington about ½ past 5, travelling by the way of Coleshill & Kenilworth.  Found Sir George Chetwynd & with whom engaged all the evening.

Thursday 28^th February 1828

At Leamington.  Interview & Conversation with Mr. Bennet, who laid before us the Plan of the Improvement of the Oxford Canal & appeared to have to be

(Loose piece of paper.)

One

Whose likeness was not taken

What, though no Artists hand assayed to trace

Some dear, though faint, resemblance of thy face,

Memory, to find affection ever true

Reaches each lovely feature,fresh to view,

And tells though every chain and grace combined,

Beauty or but the Portrait of the Mind.

(Inserted in James Caldwell's diary 1828 18 February -28 February Page 52.) -

(From about 1815 after the rest of the family had their silhouettes done at Leamington but Catherine Caldwell who died in 1814)

Another piece of paper in the form of a Bill.

80300

B 3500

D Cost 1000

M 450

G.T. 840

W.B. 270

B. . 500

Total 86,860

Diary of James Caldwell continues...

Page 54.  1828  February

to be quiet & intelligent.  He was the Inventor of the Block [Machinery] at Portsmouth.  Meeting took place at 12.  In the Chair.  Considered Mr. [Bannels] Plan & Report which were approved, but there being some points relating to Tonnage remaining to be settled between the Oxford Canal Co. & the Birmingham & Warwick & W & B Canal it was resolved to report what had been done to our respective Proprietors & to meet again at Leamington on the 1st of May.  Strange circumstances stated, & strong observations made upon the Conduct of Mr. Eyre Lee.

Friday 29^th February 1828

Sir George set off after breakfast.  Called upon the Wilbrahams of Rode, who were at Leamington.  Left Leamington at ½ past 10 with Mr. Vaughan, & arrived at home in the Evening.

March

Saturday 1^st March 1828

Fatigued & unwell.  Wrote to Mr. Grove in reply to his Letter informing me of poor Mr. Listers death.  Stamford came in the Evening.

Sunday 2^nd March 1828

At home.  Still unwell.  Service.

Monday 3^rd March 1828

At home.  Unwell.  Stamford went.  Received Letter from Sir George Chetwynd informing me that Mr. . . .declined acting upon the Select Committee.

Tuesday 4^th March 1828

At home.  Still unwell. Engaged with various Navigation Papers & arranging the same.  Received Letter by the Post from Col. [Madan] relative to the filling up of the vacancy in the Select Committee.

Wednesday 5^th March 1828

At home.  Wrote to Col. [Madan].  Still unwell.  Eliza & Miss Stamford went to Newcastle.

Thursday 6^th March 1828

At home.  Again engaged on Arrangement of Navigation Papers.  Eliza & Miss Stamford went to Clough Hall.

Friday 7^th March 1828

At home.  Engaged on various papers & afterwards on the Farm.

Saturday 8^th March 1828

At home.  Still not well.  Engaged with various Papers.  Mr. Ward of Newcastle called with a Brief for Stamford in the . . . Cause & handing for . . .at Stafford, Bent & others . . .an act of a Distress made for [Rest] of Newcastle (Page 55) Brewery.  Mr. Ward left the Brief with me after an explanation of the C and J executed a Release to Mr. Ward (which had already been executed by the Executors of the late Mr. Bent) in order to make him a competent Witness, & . . .him £15 being my ¾ share of £60 advanced in Acc. of the Trial.

Sunday 9^th March 1828

At home.  Service.  Stamford called in the afternoon & to whom I gave the Brief.  Let us learn, - not to judge of Men and their Religion so much by their faith, as by what they do; to consider not so much whether their Opinions are, in our particular judgement right and sound, as whether their Actions are, in the judgement of all Men, good and precise worthy.  [Herring] Bishop of Bangor.  Sermon the parable of the good Samaritan.

Monday 10^th March 1828

At home.  Engaged again in Selection & Arrangement of Navigation Papers.  Afterwards on the Farm.  Mr. Wedgwood called after dinner. 

"No extraordinary assumption of power on the part of the House of Commons has been long viewed with an astonishing apathy, whilst a constitution and jealousy of the Eccentric is displayed on every occasion which can afford the slightest ground for suspicion.  It must be familiar to the Reader, that the Assembly entertain a thorough contempt for the rules of Evidence which regulate the Courts of Law: and that their organisational power could enforce an explanation of the particulars of private life under the penalty of immediate consignment to his Majestys gaol at Newgate.  It maybe said that absolute power must be lodged somewhere in every Country, but some can doubt that our Constitution places it in the three Estates of Parliament.  . . .Lords and Commons, and not in the hands of any one of the three.  We shall rejoice to see the Borough of East [Ratford] receive the first reward of Crompton, but such advantage would be already bought if purchased by the exercise of Authority assumed by our third of the Legislature, from which, like the Clergy of who they claim exemption for their Order:"  Sun Newspaper March 8. 1828.

Tuesday 11^th March 1828

At home.  Engaged with the Men thinning & cutting down Trees in the Plantation under my Room Window, & planting where space is sufficient.  Revd. Mr. Carter called relative to an intended publication of some music, by Miss Salmon of Sandbach & to which Eliza & Miss Stamford & I subscribed.  Mr. A. Minton of Stoke called relative to the intended Bazaar in aid of the Subscription towards the erection of the North Staffordshire Infirmary Fever Wards.  Very fine mild day.

Wednesday 12^th March 1828

Mr. Kinnersley called to submit his Application for a reduction of his boats going north of the Tunnel for the supply of his Wharfs in Cheshire when after much discussion he said that he would propose a [Interest] of Facts in writing & appointed to see me again with Mr. Rob. Heath, previous to the next Meeting of the Select Committee.  Engaged afterwards on sundry Papers, Navigation etc. etc. & on the Farm.  Stamford came to dinner.

Thursday 13^th March 1828

At home.  Engaged on the Farm etc.  Letter from Mr. Wilkinson requesting. . .for Mr. Potter to take the Levels of an intended Rail Road from Mr. . . .to the Court, & which I gave accordingly.

Friday 14^th March 1828

Miss Stamford went to Brook Farm.  Engaged again on the Farm.

Saturday 15^th March 1828

At home.  Remarkably fair Weather, more resembling April or May, than March.  What . . . . . .we would choose  To Paint the Rainbow varying hues,  Unless to mortal it were given,  To dip his brush in dyes of Heaven.  Tennison

Sunday 16^th March 1828

At home.  Service.  Received from [Mr. Balgary] with Conveyance from Miss Stamford to J. S. Caldwell of her . . .of late Richard Harrison's property & which she had desired, might be prepared & also relative to the Amount etc. etc. in these affairs.  Wrote to Mr. Balgary. 

"Calvinism, that such faith, which stripping God of mercy and mass of power, has made Christianity an instrument of torture to the timid, and an object of doubt or scorn to hardier Spirits."  Channing.  Sermon at New York December 7. 1826.

Monday 17^th March 1828

It seeming to me that Wednesday next, the day on which I had proposed going to Derby will be the assizes.  Wrote to Mr. [Balgary] again postponing my Journey.  Perused papers in the Affairs of Harrison.  Engaged on the Farm etc.

Tuesday 18^th March 1828

Eliza went to Nantwich.  Engaged on Accounts & various matters.

Wednesday 19^th March 1828

At home.  Engaged on various matters.

Thursday 20^th March 1828

Mr. Potter called & with whom engaged some time on Navigation business.  Went to Nantwich.  Dined in Dysart Buildings.

Friday 21^st March 1828

At Nantwich. Dined at Mr. Skerratts.  Cold with Sleet & Snow.  In the morning viewed the B. & L. Junction Canal, only no such access of the Chester Road.

Saturday 22^nd March 1828

Dined in Dysart Buildings & returned home in the Evening with Eliza.

Sunday 23^rd March 1828

At home. 

Service.  " There is scarce any Man, perhaps, who is not sensible, that (Page 57) the greatest turns that have happened to him in his fortunes, have been owing to such a set of conspiring circumstances as he would not any ways have foreseen, nor can yet account for; and for there are I believe, who have not by the same happy coincidence of things, in that their for knowledge or care, escaped great dangers."  [Atterbury].  Sermon on Amnisty.

Monday 24^th March 1828

At home.  Mr. Kinnersley & Mr. Robert Heath called & with whom engaged a considerable time relative to the reduction of the Tonnage of Coals going North of Harecastle Tunnel, & with a Statement in writing which I promised to lay before the Select Committee at their next Meeting & there I desired Mr. Heath would attend.  Wrote Letter to Mr. Peake & sending back the Fee in the Cause . . .against Bent & others which had been paid to him with his Brief at Stafford, & which he had returned by a Clerk on his Banker £10.10.  Mr. Wickstead called.  Stamford returned off the Circuit, & arrived a few minutes before Mr. W.

Tuesday 25^th March 1828

At home.  Mr. Williams called relative to Mr. Lawtons Land taken for the Canal, when I finally requested that an Abstract of the Title might be sent to Mr. Wilkinson.  Mr. Williams informed me that all the Lawton family arrangements are satisfactorily settled & that they should go to Parliament the next Session: & that I might also point that the Swallow Moor Wood Title would then be perfected, & that in the meantime they were proceeding to get the necessary additional [Reservoir] supplied in Staffordshire & Cheshire. 

The Fox hounds came again.  They had turned out at [Motress] & killed one Fox.  They found again in Swallow Moor Wood, but the Fox continued to get into the Earth in the Fir Wood, although I had caused it to be carefully stopped.  The Fox coming direct across the grounds from Swallow Moor to Stone Cliffe Wood with the Hounds in full cry, close after him, afforded a fine view of the Chase.  The Hounds were then drawn off, but in the evening came again with another Fox, but which they also lost here. 

Mr. Wickstead, with two other Gentlemen who I did not know, called & took a Glass of wine, whilst their Horses were refreshed with some meal & water, & the Huntsmen & the Hounds were in the Stable Yard; but all seemed much exhausted having had a very long & hard day.  The weather very fine.  Received from Miss B yesterday by a Messenger the Key of the House upon the Marsh: & also the Half years Rent due this day.

Page 58.  1828  March

Wednesday 26^th March 1828

At home.  On examining the Fox earth this morning, Samuel Jones informed me that he had concealed himself in the Straw with which it was stopped, not having been able to make his way through it, & then if the Huntsmen would have waited for a further removal of the Straw, with which he had stopped, they would have got at the Fox.  Engaged on sundry matters.  Mr. Tollett called, & to whom I mentioned the above.  Stamford went to Rode House.

Thursday 27^th  March 1828

At home.  Sundry matters.

Friday 28^th March 1828

Made short Minutes of Business for the next Meeting of the Select Committee.  Mr. Mayor . . .of Newcastle came to consult me relative to the draining & improving of Newcastle Mill Dam, when after much conversation, I recommended it to him to consult the [Mayor]as to calling a Meeting of the principal Inhabitants, an application from whom to Mr. Sneyd, who . . . stated not to be adverse to the measure, would probably find the matter in the most effective  thereon.

Saturday 29^th March 1828

Proposed going to Newcastle, but Eliza not being very well we postponed it.  Samuel Beardmore settling ½ years Account of Rent etc.  Miss Dawson on the Penlington Affairs when I wrote to Mr. Morris of Lawton requesting payment of his Rent & Arrears. & also relative to a Gate which he had removed from the Land he held, & desiring that it might be replaced. 

Afterwards called upon Mr. Sneyd of Bradwall who I was sorry to find ,still incapable from his Accident, of walking, & suffering also from Gout & Asthma.  Such is the life of Man!  Received Letter by the Post from Mr. Vaughan, proposing to come to Linley Wood on Monday next to confer with me on Navigation business.

Sunday 30^th March 1828

Wrote to Mr. Vaughan.  At home.  Service.  Stamford dined on his return from Leek.

Monday 31^st March 1828

At home.  Mr. Vaughan came pursuance to Appointment, & with whom engaged on various Navigation Business.  Mr. V. dined & staid all night.

Page 59.  1828  April

Tuesday 1^st April 1828

Mr. Vaughan went early.  In the forenoon Mr. Brunel arrived & with whom afterwards engaged.  We went to the new Tunnel, of which Mr. B expressed the highest admiration & approbation: & pronounced it to be the best & finest work of the kind.  He particularly examined & considered the [lockivity] of the Banks. 

On our return we stopped at the embankment of the Macclesfield Mile of Canal, which we reviewed.  Saw Mr. Pritchard who promised to come to L. Wood in the evening. 

Returned to dinner, having much conversation with Mr. Brunel.  In the Evening Mr. Pritchard & James Potter, when we had a further long & satisfactory discussion relative to Harecastle Tunnel & when Mr. B. gave us a long & particular Account of the Thomas Tunnel.  He attributed the last misfortune to 3 ships having accidentally moored just over the weak part, when the [inspection] took place.  He seemed to . . .no doubt at all of success, if the necessary Funds could be provided.  The Length of the Tunnel is about 1060feet.

Wednesday 2^nd April 1828

Mr. Brunel & I walked out together & had much further conversation particularly mentioning to him the dropping of water in the new Tunnel, he said it was impossible altogether to avoid this, that these there were Springs, the water could make its way through the Bricks or Mortar but that it was not of the smallest consequence & would in time most probably reach up.  The water might be drained & carried off backward not worth the expense of draining it.  He again spoke in the strongest terms of the [exchange] of the work, the ground that it was impossible in making Estimates of works of this kind to pursue or ascertain the actual expense. 

Mr. Brunel being obliged to be at Liverpool this evening I took him in the Carriage to the Red Bull from whence he proceeded in the Mail.

Page 60.  182 April

Thursday 3^rd April 1828

Went to Newcastle to have seen Mr. Wilkinson relative to the Title to Mr. Lawtons Land, & on other matters, but he as not at home.  Eliza accompanied me.  In the Evening Miss Stamford, Miss Elizabeth Holland of Knutsford arrived.

Friday 4^th April 1828

Good Friday.  At home.

Saturday 5^th April 1828

At home.  Reconsidered & made afresh Minutes for the Select & the General Committee on Monday & Tuesday next.  Miss Stamford & Miss E Holland called at Maer Hall.

Sunday 6th April 1828

At home.  Service.

Monday 7^th April 1828

Went in good time to Stone.  Arrived there before 11.  Engaged with Mr. Vaughan & afterwards Sir George Chetwynd who came about 12.  On Select Committee all day & again at night.

Tuesday 8^th April 1828

At Stone. Engaged on General Committee.  Returned10 home at night.  Found Stamford who had come on Monday.

Wednesday 9^th April 1828

At home, but fatigued & unwell.  Sent to James Potter, who came to L. Wood & with whom I had a particular conversation relative to the defects in Knypersley Reservoir, which had been stated to the Committee yesterday by Mr. Sneyd of Ashcombe that the locks would only admit of a certain & insufficient quantity of water being discharged per day of 30 Locks: or thereabouts & that the Paddle was bent so as to prevent its being used. 

All this J. Potter satisfactorily explained to me as the result of accident.  That the former was occasioned by some pebbles having got behind the valve, & the latter by the necessary sinking of the Dam: but that the whole would be made quite perfect in a single day, the first time the water was drawn off: & that in the meantime any quantity of water might if wanted, be drawn off by drilling a few holes in the valve. 

He said he knew the Quarter in which the effects to prejudice him in the good opinion of the Company originated & which satisfied, as I am of his ability, merit & the faithful & able of his party discharge I cannot but much condemn.  He fixed to go to the Reservoir, & furnished me with the exact particulars together with an explanation in & request. 

Miss Stamford & Miss E. Holland went to Newcastle Bazaar.  James Barker, paying the half years Rent due at Michaelmas last, & to whom I made a donation of £10, in addition to £5 given before on account of the late bad time for the Farmers.

Page 61.  1828  April

Thursday 10^th April 1828

At home.  Looked over the Minutes of the Proceeding of the Select Committee & the General Committees.  The Fox hounds again down Swallow Moor Road, where they formed, but navigated & missed the Fox in the wood.

Friday 11^th April 1828

Mr. James Massey with whom I settled this Account relative to the new Buildings at the Hollins, & paid  him the balance in full.  Afterwards, engaged on sundry matters, & on the Farm.  Spread Salt at the rate of about 800cwt to the Acre upon the Bank adjoining the Linley Lane Turnpike Road, & also on the rough Bank at the bottom of the House Field.  This by way of experiment.

Saturday 12^th April 1828

Miss Holland went to Maer Hall, the Horses taking her & Miss Stamford to Newcastle. 

"Latterly, however a species of spurious philosophy has gained ground among the Members of a particular school of political economy, which justified the formation of the advantage of one Class of the Community at the expense of another; which justifies the crushing of an individual, or a body of individuals, provided some plausible thing can be advanced to show, that from his mind an advantage will result to the just of the Community."  Corn Lane.  Quarterly Review..  March 1828. 

It is to be observed, however, that by universal assent, the Individuals must give way to the interests and the necessities of the Public and that it is in the . . .the excess of this principle that the mischief and the injustice consist.  If as has been of late so frequently and flagrantly the case, provide property, & particularly that overlooked in established public Works, has been sacrificed to crude and interested Projects and suggestions, without sufficient probability or certainty appearing of their intimately proving adequately beneficial to the community, then it may fairly be asked, is it just, is it moral, is it constitutional, or is it wise, to deprive one Man, or Class of Man, of the prosperity of which they are legally proposed, to confer it upon others? And in such cases, the Observation of late, may but too [truly] applied to English Statesmen, Speculators and Projectors, "Liberalitas nondemum appellation alina bona largire."

Sunday 13^th April 1828

At home.  Service.  Fine Showers.  The importance of the Duties of Morality appears equally from Reason & from Sacrifice.  "What doth the Lord require of thee but to do justly, and to have mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"  What more comfortable to Reason, for what more conducive to the happiness of this life, than the performance of these Duties?"  We must therefore be above all things, careful to entrust these virtues in ourselves, & make our belief of the doctrines  of the Gospel, & our attendance on the external instructions of it subservient to this purpose; and we are never to imagine ourselves religious because we believe truly, and pray frequently, and read the Scriptures every day, & take all occasions of partaking of the Lords Supper.  The [word] of Religion does not consist in these things, but in those upright, humane and generous disposition with respect to Mankind, and that servant and obedient transfer towards God, which they are intended to raise and innocuous." 

Sermon by the Revd. John Orr.

Monday 14^th April 1828

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Gregson Canal Officer, Lancaster, acknowledging receipt of Dividends on my 7% shares for the years 1826 ,1827, 1828.  NB. 1824 & 1825 remain still unpaid.  Inclosed in Mr. G. Letter that to be paid hereafter.  Engaged with the Men pulling down Iron Hurdles below the flower garden, in line of the Posts & Chain.  Fine Showers.

Tuesday 15

Sent the Carriage to Maer Hall for Miss E. Holland who came to dinner.  Mr. Kinnersley & Dr. Mckenzie called relative to a Ball intended to be given to the Ladies who had contributed to the Bazaar held at Newcastle on Wednesday & Thursday last in aid of the erection of Fever Wards at the North Staffordshire Infirmary, & the receipts of which amounted on the whole to (blank) when I contributed 5 [Guineas] to the Sale, having previously subscribed to the Fever Wards.  Fine Rain the greatest part of the day.

Wednesday 16^th April 1828

At home.  Engaged with the Men completing the change & putting down afresh the Iron Hurdles in the front of the House, & round the Plantation etc.  Fine April weather.  In the evening received 3 of the intended Ball Tickets for Eliza, Mrs. S & myself.

Thursday 17^th April 1828

At home.  Engaged on Navigation Papers.  Revising Minutes of proceedings of the last Meeting of the Select & of he General Committee etc.  Two Miss Kinnersleys & Mrs. Mackenzie of Newcastle called.  Showery day.  Miss Holland left Linley Wood early this morning, the Carriage taking her to Newcastle, on her way to Nottingham.

Friday 18^th April 1828

Went to Lawton to have seen James Potter relative to Knypersley Reservoir etc. but he was out.  Rain.  James Walker paying his half (Page 63) years Rent due at Lady day last.  Engaged on sundry matters.

Saturday 19^th April 1828

At home.  James Potter came & with whom engaged a considerable time on Navigation business & when he more fully explained & confirmed his former statement relative to Knypersley Reservoir.  He also stated the wish of the Macclesfield Canal Company to change the situation of their calculated Warehouse, when I told him that I would lay any application that they might think proper to make before the Select Committee. 

Stamford came to dinner from Stafford Sessions. 

"Creeds or Dogmas in Religion, are the explanation given by the Priest of that which is least known to us, and often of which is incomprehensible.  Our understandings may submit, but no more, since real belief is only in proposition to comprehension.  Religion is a Feeling not a Science.  Faith cannot mean the knowledge of that which is beyond attainment.  But Faith we are told, is exercised on the historical part of Revelation, this is not the case; the history of Revelation is history, it requires deep research, vast evaluation, the talent of estimating both and appreciating evidence, it is founded on the knowledge of Man, which explains the size of opinions, and on the knowledge of languages, which enables us to correct the errors of translations to their source, and compare them.  In short, it is a Science, and one of the most vast and complicated that can be investigated by Man.  Now, Religion, the homage of the creature to its Creator, cannot be a Science, for it is a want of our nature, it is both a pleasure and a duty to all: & has its source in the heart, and cannot be denied to the ignorant and uninformed."  

Sisamondis progress of Religious Opinion.

Sunday 20^th April 1828

At home.  Service.  Received Letter from Mr. Vaughan.

Monday 21^st April 1828

Wrote to Mr. Vaughan.  Made Minutes of business preparatory to seeing him tomorrow, when he proposed coming to Linley Wood.  Engaged with the Men now gravelling the Walk to the Turning.  Stamford went to Newcastle & returned in the evening.  Rain.

Page 64.  1828  April

Tuesday 22^nd April 1828

Mr. Vaughan came to breakfast, & with whom closely engaged the whole of the morning on Navigation business, & sundry matters requiring particular consideration.  Appointed to meet Mr. Salt at Stone on Tuesday to examine & settle the Treasurers Accounts, & proceed from thence to Leamington the following day.  Stamford went to Burslem.  Continual Rain all day.

Wednesday 23^rd April 1828

At home.  Engaged on various matters.  Wrote to Mr. Ward of Newcastle relative to a small piece of ground upon the Marsh appertaining to the House, & expressing my readiness to accommodate him with it.  Wrote also to Mr. Balgary & appointed to be at Derby on Friday the 20 May, on Harrisons Affairs.

Thursday 24^th  April 1828

Having received a Letter from Mr. Ward relative to an application made to him for the House upon the Marsh, informed him by Post that I would call upon him tomorrow morning.  Engaged on sundry matters: & with the Men who completed the Ground Walk.  Wrote to Miss . . .Liverpool.

Friday 25^th April 1828

Went to Newcastle to see Mr. Ward, & also to call upon Mr. Wilkinson on Navigation Business.  Settled with the former to see him again on Tuesday Morning, he proposing to see the Party who applied for the House in the meantime, & learn further particulars.  Mr. Ward promised to put an indorsement of my second Mortgage of the Stoney field Estate for £3000 settlement upon the Deeds in the proposals of the first Mortgage.  I stated to Mr. Ward my great doubts as to the Cause with . . .& the expediency of proceeding with it. 

I saw Wilkinson on sundry Navigation matters, Mr. Campbells opinion as to . . .being upon stamps.  Lawton Title to Land being taken for the Macclesfield Canal, and desired him to write to Mr. Wilkinson etc.  brought back the Company's Seal which had been delivered to Mr. Wilkinson to be affixed to Certificates of Shares by order of the Committee.  Rain all day.

Saturday 26^th April 1828

At home.  Eliza Roscoe & her 5 children came to L. Wood.  Fine Morning, but heavy showers in the afternoon.

Sunday 27^th April 1828

At home.  Service.  Stamford dined.

Monday 28^th  April 1828

At home.  Closely engaged all morning on Navigation Papers, perusing & selecting & arranging the same preparatory to going to Stone tomorrow, & from thence to Leamington on Wednesday.  Fine warm day, with light showers.  Cut Cabbages

Page 65.  1828  April

Tuesday 29^th April 1828

Went to Stone.  Met Mr. Thomas Salt with whom & Mr. Vaughan closely engaged examining & settling the Treasurers Account, and also engaged with Mr. Vaughan examining the Company's Cash Book & comparing the same with the various receipts & vouchers from the 27 of October to the 19 of April inclusive.

Wednesday 30^th April 1828

Set off with Mr. Vaughan from Stone to Leamington.  On my way I stopped at Armitage Park & sat a short time with Mr. Lister, who seemed much pleased with my calling upon him.  I mentioned that Lady Ribblesdale had the day before given birth to a son.  Arrived at Leamington a little before six, & found Sir George, Miss Charlotte & Miss Georgina Chetwynd.  We all dined together, & afterwards Sir G.,Mr. V & I were engaged on the business of tomorrow.

May

Thursday 1^st May 1828

Mr. . . .Mr. [Durell], the Revd. Mr. . . ., Mr. [Beech] & Mr. Sharpe attended & arrived in good time; but no Delegates attending on the part of the Birmingham & Warwick or the Warwick & Napton Canal or from being any Consideration whatsoever, I took the Chair at one o'clock, at which time we waited, & then proceeded to business, which we went through with the most perfect harmony & cordiality coming to a Resolution to give the most strenuous support to the Bill intended to be brought before Parliament in the next Session, by the Oxford Canal Company, for the shortening and improving their Canal.  Strong observations were made on the conduct of the B & W &W & N.  There being reason to apprehend great duplicity & that the object now was to make their own Canal the line to unite with the B & W Canal.

Friday 2^nd May 1828

After breakfasting with Sir George & the Ladies, we parted.  They proceeding to Oxford, & Mr. V. & I on our return home.  At [Lisfield] Mr. V & I separated as I went from thence to Derby.  On my arrival sent a Note to Mr. Balgary & another to Mr. Horrocks inviting the [Cutters] to breakfast the next morning.  The former came in the Evening & in the chase I had a long & satisfactory conference, Mr. B speaking with the most perfect Confederation of the Title & the Time, & assurance that both might be relied upon.  He recommended selling some parts of the property.

Saturday 3^rd May 1828

At nine o'clock Received a Message that Mr. Horrocks was not at home, but was expected in the course of the day.  Called upon Mr. [Belgary] & we afterwards called at some of the Houses.  Saw Mr. Hill, Miss Bennet & (Page 66) Miss Richardson to each of whom we promised the Refusal of their respective Houses in case of Sale. 

Saw Mr. Greaves, the Solicitor who had purchased the interest in the Unity of Bannisters House, & which he promised to put upon a valuation for our consideration, in case we wished to purchase.  He said that the Parties meant to try again to set aside the verdict & defeat the Fine & he had been so informed by their Solicitor himself. 

On asking Mr. [Balgary] whether there was any defect in the Fine of which advantage could be taken he assured me there was not, & in case of Sale advised me strongly to guarantee the Title, rather than make any allowance on account of it. 

Wrote to the Revd. Mr. Hope again requesting payment of his Arrears of Rent £123.10s.  Mr. [Balgary] said he was going to Town, but should be back in a fortnight at the furthest & would send me his Account & a Draft for the Balance in . . .upon his Return.  Left Derby at about ½ past one, called & saw two Miss Bents, & arrived at Linley Wood a little after 7, but much fatigued with the exertions of the last 5 days.

Sunday 4^th May 1828

At home.  Service.  James Bent who had sent word that he would dine here today, did not come.  Much fatigued & very unwell.

Monday 5^th May 1828

At home.  Very unwell.  Arranged Papers, & engaged on sundry matters.  The Gardener cut Asparagus.

Tuesday 6^th May 1828

Turned 16 Milking Cows & a Bull into the Ground below the Flower Garden.  Unwell & much Suffering.  Rolled Linley Meadow, which we had used as a [Bowsey] Pasture.

Wednesday 7^th May 1828

Wrote to Mssr [Carbonell] & Son, London, & to Mssr Woodhouse Liverpool & remitted their respective Accounts for wine.  Mr. Potter called & with whom engaged a considerable time.  He fully confirmed the Statement made by James Potter as to the obstruction in the discharge of the Water out of Knypersley new Reservoir, its trifling importance & easy . . .He said that he had himself informed John Trubshaw that he might have any quantity of Water he wanted & at any time.

Page 67.  1828  May

Thursday 8^th May 1828

At home.  But unwell.  Mr. C. Lawton & Miss L. Belmont called.  Fine day without rain.

Friday 9^th May 1828

Drew special Notice of the next Trent & Mersey General Assembly, pursuant to the Resolution of the last General Committee in order to the same being sent to the Proprietors.  Still far from well.  Miss Stamford & E. Roscoe dined at Clough Hall.  In the forenoon rode over the Farm.

Saturday 10^th May 1828

At home.  Eliza R. went to Camp Hill.  Sent the Carriages & Horses, with her.  Unwell. 

"There is much good natural reasoning in the following Speech of an Indian in reply to a Sermon preached by a Swedish Minister at an Indian Treaty, & which might afford a salutary Session to Missionaries as to the manner in which they . . .divine Truths  Do you then really believe, that we and our Forefathers are all, as you would teach us, condemned to suffer eternal torments in another World, because we have not been taught your mysterious Novelties?  Are we not work of God?  And can the Almighty not manifest his Will, without the aid of your Book?  If this be true, and God is just, then how is it consistent with his justice, to force life upon ua without our consent, and then to condemn us all to eternal damnation, because we did not meet with you."   [Stilmans] Expedition in . . .

Sunday 11^th May 1828

At home.  Service.

Monday 12^th May 1828

Sent the Navigation Notice to Mr. Wilkinson by Mr. Bickerton & wrote to him, requesting him to get it printed, & send me a proof Sheet.  Cattle turned into the Ley.  Changed the milking Cows to the House field.

Tuesday 13^th May 1828

At home.  Engaged on Navigation Papers.  Farm etc,  Eliza Roscoe returned from Camp Hill.  The Carriage meeting her at Newcastle.  Received Letter from the Revd. Charles Hope of Derby on Harrisons Affairs.

Wednesday 14^th May 1828

At home.  Mr. Thomas Salt, Revd. Mr. Mainwaring, Josiah Wedgwood & Stamford dined.

Thursday 15^th May 1828

Mr. Salt & Mr. J. Wedgwood who had staid all night went after Breakfast.  Sent Mr. J. Wedgwood by Jos. a Copy of the Resolution appointing the Special Committee to inspect & report upon Knypersley Reservoir.  James Potter came with a Letter from Mr. Tomlinson relative to the Canal Bridge near Stoke being removed when I referred him to Mr. Vaughan requesting that he would look at the order in the Book.  Mr. Roscoe came to dinner.  Received by Post Letter from Sir George Chetwynd with account of his proceedings in London.

Friday 16^th May 1828

Miss Stamford, W & E Roscoe & Eliza went to Maer Hall.  Engaged on Navigation Papers.  Called at Lawton Hall, but Mr. C Lawton was out.

Saturday 17^th May 1828

Wrote to Sir G Chetwynd in reply to his Letter.  Went to Newcastle on sundry matters.  Met there Mr. Vaughan, who was coming to Linley Wood on Navigation business.  After some conference with him he fixed to come to Linley Wood on Thursday or Friday next further to consult & arrange with me [sound] matters now in hand.  Mrs. S etc. returned from Maer Hall at night.

Sunday 18^th May 1828

At home.  Service.  Dr. Crompton, Henry C & Jas. Bent came to dinner.  Wrote to Mr. Bent for J.B.

Monday 19^th May 1828

The Doctor & Henry left us after breakfast on their return home.  Engaged afterwards perusing & considering Navigation Proceedings since the last General Assembly & for which purpose Mr. Vaughan had furnished me with them.  Received Letter by the Post from Mr. Wedgwood of Maer relative to his Trustee-ship under Anne Marsh's Marriage Settlement.  Looked out & perused Papers previous to replying [thence].  Stamford came to dinner with Mr. Roscoe who had called upon him & a message which arrived from Emma Holland today.  Unwell with Headache.

Tuesday 20^th May 1828

Wrote to Mr. Josiah Wedgwood in reply to his Letter, & wrote also to Arthur Marsh sending him a copy of it.  Unwell.  Letter from Sir Geo. Chetwynd.

Wednesday 21^st May 1828

At home.  Mr. & Mrs. F. Twemlow, Miss Fletcher, Mrs. C Lawton, Mrs. [Milner], Miss L Balcombe, Revd. Mr. & Miss Bagot & Mrs. Moreton dined.  Stamford also & Mr. & E Roscoe.  Received a second Letter from Mr. Wedgwood.

Thursday 22^nd May 1828

Engaged in the morning with Mr. F. Twemlow, who with Mrs. F & Miss Fletcher staid all night.  Mr. Roscoe went to [Barton].  Very unwell myself, with great suffering.  Received Ayre & Caldon Navigation Bill.

Friday 23^rd May 1828

Miserable night with great suffering through the day.  Received by the Post Letter from Sir George Chetwynd.

Saturday 24^th May 1828

Great suffering in the night.  Wrote to Sir George Chetwynd in reply to his Letter.  James Potter came relative to Mr. Heathcote's Coals, & the valuation of the same & the Notice to them not to get, when I desired him immediately to see Mr. Robert Heath, & Mr. Wilkinson, & which he promised to do today.  So unwell as to be unable to dine at Lawton Hall, & sent a Note to Mr. C Lawton by Miss Stamford & E. Roscoe, who with Mr. Roscoe who had returned today dined there.  Received by the Post Letters from Arthur Marsh & Mr. [Delmar].  Wm. Bent & Mr. Vaughan.

Sunday 25^th May 1828

At home.  Service.

Monday 26^th May 1828

Sent to Mr. Wedgwood by Samuel Jones the Letters received from Mr. Delmar & A. Marsh, together with one from myself.  Mr. Vaughan came to Breakfast & with whom engaged all morning on various Navigation Business. 

James Potter came after Mr. Vaughan was gone, relative to Mr. Heathcotes Coals, & to inform me that Mr. Robert Heath would act if necessary as Representative for the company, with the consent of Mr. Kinnersley to whom he wished application to (be) made.  Mr. Heath confirmed his former Statement as to the tripling value of the Coals. I desired James Potter to call today on Mr. Wilkinson in order that he might consider the Notices or other steps necessary to be taken under the Act of Parliament. 

Looked over various Letters & Papers relative to A. Marsh Settlement & Deed of Indemnity.  Mr. Skerratt & Bessy arrived at noon.  Mr. Roscoe afterwards left us on his return home.  Miss Sarah Wedgwood dined & brought me from Mr. Jos. Wedgwood the Copy of the Petition to the Chancellor on Marriage Settlement business.

Tuesday 27^th May 1828

Mr. Skerratt left us after breakfast on his Journey to Buxton.  Also Miss S. Wedgwood & Stamford.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan.  Engaged perusing & considering the Petition containing all the facts of the Marsh Case & the Particulars of Trust property that Mr. Wedgwood had actually signed in March last though he had never given me the smallest intimation of the matter till his Letter of the 18 May requiring an Indemnity from me, & although he had in the meantime written to me on other business.  Received Letter from Mr. Wedgwood by the Post with the Letters which I had sent to him on Monday last.

Wednesday 28^th May 1828

Engaged again on the Marsh Papers.  Wrote Letter to Mr. Wedgwood on reply to the one received from him yesterday, & returned him the Copy of the Petition by Saml. Jones who took my packet to Etruria.  Still far from well & suffering much in Mind & Body from the present loss of my circumstances.

Page 70.  1828 May

Thursday 29^th May 1828

Engaged all morning closely at the Desk, though very unfit for it; upon the Marsh Papers, & making Copies of all the Letters which had passed between Mr. Wedgwood & myself, to be sent to Mr. Delmar.  Received by Post Letter from Miss Bennett of Derby a Tenant of one of the Houses late Robt. Harrison.  Miss Stamford & E. Roscoe went to Betley Hall.

Friday 30^th May 1828

NB. This day got early Potatoes for dinner in the open Garden.  Engaged again on the same business & writing long Letter to Mr. Delmar to accompany the Copies of the Letters.  Copied the Letter to Mr. Delmar & sent the whole by Saml. Jones to Newcastle to be forwarded by the London & Liverpool Mail.  Signed in the presence of an Excise Officer (Robert Barratt) of Newcastle.  Macclesfield Brewery Entry.

Saturday 31^st May 1828

James Potter, who brought me a Model of the Machinery for the delivery of the water out of Knypersley Reservoir, & with whom engaged a considerable time.  He said he had seen Mr. Wilkinson relative to Mr. Heathcotes Coals.  Miss Stamford & E. Roscoe returned from Betley.  Wrote to Miss Bennett of Derby in reply to her Letter.  Stamford dined.

June

Sunday 1^st June 1828

At home.  Service.  Received by Post a further Letter from Mr. Wedgwood "harassing & needless".  Letter also from Mr. Hollinshead of Liverpool excusing his attendance at the Navigation General Assembly.

Monday 2^nd June 1828

At home.  Engaged again in this wretched business of the Marsh's & wrote to Mr. Delmar with a Copy of Mr. Wedgwoods last Letter.  Unwell after a feverish night.  Wrote to Mr. Hollinshead.  Eliza, E.R. & E.C. Called at Stamford's.

Tuesday 3^rd June 1828

At home, but far from well.  Engaged on Navigation Papers.  Revised, corrected & copied afresh the Draft of the intended Report to the General Assembly.  Bessy returned to Nantwich, the Carriage taking her.

Wednesday 4^th June 1828

At home.  Still the same.  Engaged on sundry matters.  John Boughey's wife to excuse their non payment of the Rent due, when I gave them till Midsummer next to pay it, & told her that if they were not satisfied with the situation, they should be at liberty to leave it.  Letter from Mr. Vaughan, he will come to Linley Wood on Friday next.

Thursday 5^th  June 1828

Very unwell.  James Potter & John Cope came & with whom engaged a considerable time, where Cope confirmed all that James Potter had before stated relative to the delivery the water out of Knypersley Reservoir, & the little foundation that there was for the complaints that had been made.  Wrote to Anne Marsh.  Read part of Collingswood Letter.

Page 71.  1828  June

How well do the following words expressing me of my own sad list of impurities " I am quick and hasty in my temper: my sensibility is touched sometimes with a trifle, and my expression of it sudden as gunpowder: but it is a misfortune which, not having been sufficiently restrained in my youth, has caused me much pain."

Friday 6^th June 1828

At home.  Still unwell.  Mr. Evans with Statement of Work done by him at Knypersley Reservoir, when I told him that I knew nothing of the matter myself, but would mention it to Mr. Vaughan.  Engaged making observations in the Settlement Business.  Mr. Vaughan came & with whom engaged a considerable time on various matters preparatory to the Select Committee & General Assembly.  He declined staying (to) dinner & all night, as he had agreed to do, & after taking some refreshment, returned to Stone.  Mr. V. thought there was no grounds for Evans Claim, that he had been sufficiently paid already.  Note from James Potter, relative to John Copes attendance at Stone, on Monday, but which I informed him that I thought necessary.

Saturday 7^th June 1828

At home.  Engaged again on Navigation Papers.  Marsh Sutherland Papers etc. etc. Mr. Pearson relative to taking the House on Newcastle Marsh when I engaged to meet him at Mr. Wards on Wednesday next.

Sunday 8^th June 1828

At home.  Service.  Stamford dined.

Monday 9^th June 1828

Went early to Stone.  Delivered to Mr. Wedgwood Copy of my Letter to Mr. Delmar & Mr. Coopers answer thereto.  Also my private observations.  Engaged on Select Committee, & afterwards on the General Committee all day, & with Sir George till late at night preparing addition to the Report.

Tuesday 10^th June 1828

Engaged on the General Committee & afterwards at the General Assembly.  Mr. Wedgwood on the motion of Mr. Twemlow seconded by Mr. Ralph [Bourne] who's in to second the late Mr. Lister on the Select Committee & Mr. Twemlow in the motion of Mr. Ralph [Bourne] on the General Committee.  After two various (long) & laborious days returned home in the evening, bringing Stamford back with me to Linley Wood.

Wednesday 11^th June 1828

Wrote to Wm. . . .desiring to see him tomorrow, or on Friday Morning.  Went to Newcastle with the Seal to be affixed to Certificates of Shares & saw Mr. Wilkinson.  Saw Mr. Pearson relative to the House upon the Marsh, but Mr. Ward being from home we deferred coming to any conclusion till tomorrow.

Thursday 12^th June 1828

Went again to Newcastle.  Saw Mr. Ward, & left it with him to agree with Pearson at such Rent as Mr. W. should approve.  Soon after my return home (Page 72) John [Franklow] arrived with Letter from Mr. Wedgwood relative to Knypersley Reservoir, & not long after Wm. [Fearne] arrived in consequence of my Letter, to him.  Long conversation with them, & then directed them to proceed immediately to the Reservoir, at their request gave the instructions in writing as to the matter, & which their attention was to be directed.  A very harassing & fatiguing day.

Friday 13^th June 1828

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Eccles of Manchester in reply to his Letter relative to Stamford's attendance on a [Confession] of Lunacy.  Mr. Booth of Kent came & with whom engaged a considerable time relative to the Oak Farm, Boughey, House & Rent, Linley Lane, Road & Tollgate etc. etc.  In the evening W. [Fearne] came with his & Trubshaw's Report, & on which business engaged with him a considerable time.  Received by the Post, another painful & harassing Letter from Mr. Wedgwood on the Settlement business & saw what could not but excite (to say the least) my great surprize.

Saturday 14^th June 1828

Wrote to Mr. John Lawrence of Birmingham in reply to a Letter received from him requesting my great [Opinion] with other Delegates relative to the non attendance of the Delegates from Birmingham & Warwick & Warwick & Napton Canal Companies at the last Meeting at Leamington.  Wrote to Mr. Fred. Tomlinson in reply to an invitation to J.S.  Copied [Fearne] & . . .Reports & then wrote to Mr. Wedgwood, & sent him the original by a Messenger to Etruria.  Closely engaged writing all morning, though unwell, & very unfit for it.  In the afternoon Mr. Ward Junior with Estimates of Reports of the House upon the Marsh, let to Mr. Pearson, whom I paid to go to Newcastle on Monday morning on this business.

Sunday 15^th June 1828

At home.  Service.  Unwell.  "Application to weighty business, and the necessary anxiety which it occasions, affect the health and spirits of the strongest men, and overwhelm the weak."

Monday 16^th June 1828

Mr. Vaughan came to breakfast, and with whom engaged all morning on Navigation business & being prevented thereby from going to Newcastle.  I sent a Letter to Mr. Ward by a Messenger.  Received back from Mr. Wedgwood the papers in Marsh's business & which I had delivered to him on Monday last.

Tuesday 17^th June 1828

Wrote to Mr. Vaughan & to Mr. Wedgwood.  Miss Stamford went to Nantwich.  Engaged on Navigation papers & making Observations on recent proceedings.  Letter from John Tomlinson with full Report of Knypersley Reservoir.  Revd. Mr. . . .called on his way to [Artherley], & engaged to see him here of Friday next, & stay all night.

Page 73.  1828  June

Wednesday 18^th June 1828

Wrote to Jos. Wedgwood inviting him & [Frank} to dine here on Friday, also to Wm. Bent.  At home.  Rain with Thunder.  Engaged on sundry matters.

Thursday 19^th June 1828

Called on James Potter but he was not returned from Lichfield.  From there to Macclesfield Canal Aqua lock,. . .the same.  In the afternoon heavy Rain with Thunder.  George Davenport offering himself as [Farming] Man.

Friday 20^th June 1828

At home.  Mr. Potter called, & with whom much conversation relative to the Reservoir in Knypersley.  He accounted for the escape of water by the . . discharging Paper having been bent or broken by the sinking of the Paddle, or possibly by the forcing of the Canals when examined, but that when the water was discharged, this would be seen, and in the meantime there was no danger.  He said he had just been at Knypersley.  The water was about 9 feet below Level & would be discharged in about 3 weeks.  Received by Post invitation to meet the Bishop & attend the laying of the foundation Stone of the new Church at Burslem on Tuesday next the 24.  John Blunt came to dinner.  Rain & Thunder.

Saturday 21^st June 1828

At home.  John Blunt left us after breakfast.  Weather the same as for several days past, & very unfavourable for the Hay Harvest.  Engaged on various matters.

Sunday 22^nd June 1828

At home.  Service.

Monday 23^rd June 1828

At home.  Engaged on sundry Navigation Papers, & considering various matters to be brought before the Select Committee at their next Meeting.  Weather to all appearances taking up, the day having passed over without Rain.  Gave directions for beginning to mow tomorrow Morning.

Tuesday 24^th June 1828

At home.  Began mowing.  James Potter came & with whom engaged relative to Knypersley Reservoir & considering the escape of Water etc. & where he confirmed the opinions which I had previously entertained of the real Cause, & the inconvenience that had risen from the interruptions given by Mr. Bateman & others when the Dam & Paddle were making.  Considered also the Map of the Canals directed to be made by the General Committee, when he promised to sketch out the sewer, & see me with it on Friday next.

Page 74.  1828 June 

Wednesday 25^th June 1828

At home.  Engaged again on Navigation Minutes for the next Meeting of the Select Committee.  Sent James Potter at his request Smith's Map of the Canals.  Received Letter from Mr. Vaughan appointing to come here tomorrow evening.  Fine day, & the People busily employed in the Hay, having six mowers at work.  Received Letter from John Trubshaw with further Report of Knypersley Reservoir.

Thursday 26^th June 1828

At home.  Engaged on papers preparatory to seeing Mr. Vaughan.  Received further Report of Knypersley Reservoir from John Trubshaw.  Fine Summer day & very best in the Hay.  Mr. Vaughan came to dinner, & with whom afterwards engaged me on Navigation business.  Delivered to him Mr. Giles, three Reports, in order that he might show them to Sir George Chetwynd, & to whom I wrote therewith.

Friday 27^th June 1828

Wrote to Mr. Sudworth of Blacon Point in reply to an invitation received from him.  Received from John Trubshaw a further & unfavourable Report of Knypersley Reservoir, in consequence of which I went immediately to James Potter, who satisfactorily explained several particulars, but said he would send Buckley the operative person who had done the work to me. 

Busy in the Hay, & carried 13 Loads.  Buckley came ,& with whom spent a satisfactory conversation but for greater satisfaction I appointed to go Knypersley on Monday Morning & inspect the Dam, & which he & John Trubshaw wanted me to see.  Buckley attended the fault to the instructions given by Mr. Bateman, Mr. Williamson & Sir George C. when the work was carrying on whereby it was done by intervals & an investigation setting of the Dam & Paddle occasioned.  Men there all day believed to be the true Cause.  Received from James Potter small spaniel whelp.

Saturday 28^th June 1828

At home.  Very busy in the Hay & carried 12 more Loads.  Looked over Navigation Minutes with a view to considering Mr. Leigh's Case as to Consall Forge.  Received Letter from Wm. Roscoe in consequence of Mr. Wedgwood's having applied for an Abstract of his Settlement Deed.

Sunday 29^th June 1828

Wrote to Mr. Roscoe, requesting him to send the Abstract, or a Copy of the Deed, to Mr. Wedgwood.  Service.

Page 75.  1828 June.

Monday 30^th June 1828

Went to Knypersley Reservoir taking James Potter with me, & Mr. John Trubshaw with whom & Buckley carefully inspected the Works: & examining into the various matters stated in the Report of the Special Committee, & making Minutes in writing.  It appeared to me to be necessary for perfect safety, that the Paddle should be cut down to the [discharging] pipes, where there is a possible defect arising most possibly from their having been . . .the Settlement t of the Paddle.  Talked over with John Trubshaw, Mr. Leigh's Claim relative to Consall Forge.  When he promised to prepare a Plan & bring it to Linley Wood on Thursday next.  Stamford came at night.

July

Tuesday 1^st July 1828

At home.  Engaged on Navigation Papers & [Memorandum] for Select Committee.  Men bring in the Hay.  Received Letter fro Revd. Mr. [Aitkins]  Wrote to Dr. Holland.  Stamford went.

Wednesday 2^nd July 1828

Wrote to Mr. [Atikins] in reply to his Letter which contained a further Application for . . .of the Tonnage of Stone etc. for building the intended new Church at Shelton.  Afterwards engaged closely all Morning on Navigation Papers.  Copied the proceedings of the Select Committee, the General Committee & the General Assembly on the 9 & 10 June last for entry in the Books. 

Revised & Copied Observations made on my inspection of Knypersley Reservoir on Monday last, & making further observations preparatory to seeing Mr. John Trubshaw & Mr. James Potter at Linley Wood tomorrow.  Busy in the Hay.  Mr. & Mrs. Chas. Lawton & Mrs. [Milner] called.  Miss Stamford returned from Nantwich to dinner.

Thursday 3^rd July 1828

At home, expecting John Trubshaw & James Potter agreeably to their appointment but neither of them came.  Weather changed to Rain which prevented doing any thing in the Hay, but of which not much remained, having already carried 54 Loads out of the Meadow.  Eliza & Miss Stamford called at Lawton Hall.

Friday 4^th July 1828

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan & to Mr. [Balgary] of Derby.  Busy again in the Hay & finished in the Meadows carrying 4 more Loads, making in the whole 58 loads.

Saturday 5^th July 1828

At home.  Mr. John Trubshaw came with the Plan of Consall Forge, Perused etc. & with whom engaged a considerable time on this matter, & further consideration of Knypersley Reservoir.  Busy in the Hay.  In the evening James Potter came with further plan of the Dam etc. at Knypersley, also with the proposed map of Canals, & all whom engaged a long time.  He promised to dine here tomorrow.  Finished the Hay Harvest, carrying 5 Loads out of the Garden Croft & making in the whole 63 Loads.

Page 76.  1828  July

Sunday 6^th July 1828

At home.  Service.  James Potter & Stamford dined.

Monday 7^th July 1828

Went early to Stone where closely engaged all day on Select Committee.  Mr. Wedgwood attended for the first time since his appointment as one of the Select Committee.  He returned home in the Evening.  Sir Geo. & I staid all night.

Tuesday 8^th July 1828

Returned from Stone bringing Sir George to Cobridge.  On my arrival at home found an invitation to dine today at Lawton Hall, & where Miss Stamford & I dined accordingly, meeting Mr. & Mrs. Tipping of Davenport.  Revd. & Edward Powys also dined.

Wednesday 9^th July 1828

Engaged closely all Morning on Navigation Papers.  Revising & copying afresh for entry into The Books.  The Minutes of the Proceedings of the Select Committee on Monday next.  Wrote to the Revd. Mr. [Aitkins], Hanley & sent him Copy of the Minute relative to the [revision] of Tonnage of materials for the intended new Church at Shelton.  Rain almost the whole of the day.

Thursday 10^th July 1828

Went to Newcastle on various matters.  Eliza accompanying me.  Saw Mr. Ward who said that Mr. Walklate highly approved of the advice I had given to make the offer of a Reference in the Cause with . . .approved.  Engaged with Mr. Ward to pay off the final Mortgage on the Stoney fields property, & to take a Mortgage for the whole of this, & which I had clearly advised upon it, making together £5000.  Mr. Ward undertook to give the necessary Notices to the first Mortgage. 

Returned to dinner.  Received Letter from John Trubshaw with an unfavourable account of Knypersley Reservoir, in consequence of which I wrote by this Post to Mr. Telford urging again his immediately coming down.  Evans called with his dispirited comment for [lock down] at the Reservoir, but being particularly engaged writing to Mr. Telford etc. I could not see him, now is this a matter for me to interfere in.

Friday 11^th July 1828

Wrote to Mr. Vaughan.  Engaged on Consall Forge papers, & drawing observations on this case for the consideration of the Select Committee.  Mr. Evans called again with a Letter from James Potter relative to his Account, when I told him that I could not do more than bring the matter before the Select Committee, & which I would do on his claim to having property as then [listed].  He took back the Account for this purpose.

Saturday 12^th July 1828

At home.  Engaged again on the Consall Forge Papers, & making Minutes of Business for our approaching Survey of the Canal.  Received Letter from Mr. Vaughan informing me that nothing had been heard from Mr. Telford.  Rain & so cold that we had a Fire.

Page 77.  1828  July

Sunday 13^th July 1828

Heavy Rain in the night, & which continued the greatest part of the day.  At home.  Service.  Stamford came from Maer Hall late to dinner.

Monday 14^th July 1828

Went to Stone.  Met Sir George & Mr. Wedgwood.  Considerable discussion relative to Knypersley Reservoir on intelligence having been received of Mr. Telford & the Rain continuing to fall in Torrents.

Tuesday 15^th July 1828

Sir George & Mr. Wedgwood relinquished their engagement of dining at Linley Wood, on the plea of it being necessary to be at Stone in case Mr. Telford should arrive, in consequence of which I returned home to meet Dr. [Nothen] & Mr. Wilkinson who had agreed to dine to meet Sir G. & Mr. Wedgwood, & also in expectation that Mr. Telford might call upon us here. 

Late in the evening James Potter brought me a Letter from Mr. Telford, & his Report upon the Reservoir.  Stamford also came from Knutsford Sessions purposely to dine & meet Sir George & talk to him about the Consolidation Bill.

Wednesday 16^th July 1828

Returned to Stone.  Sir George very vexatious in his observations & manner, & so as to excite great dissatisfaction in my mind.  It was finally determined to relinquish the Survey of the Canal for the present.  Returned home to dinner.  B. left with Mr. Vaughan at Stone the whole of the Report, which I had from time to time drawn up together with the bundle of Papers containing Mr. . . .& Mr. Telford's Reports & Estimates, consideration etc.

Thursday 17^th July 1828

At home.  Fatigued & unwell but engaged on Navigation Papers & particularly looking out the papers proper to be deposited in the Office at Stone.

Friday 18^th July 1828

Engaged as yesterday, though still very unwell.  Received Letter from Mr. Vaughan with Copies of the Minutes made on the Mr. Leigh's & Mr. Williamson's appointing to the Select Committee.  Wrote to Mr. [Chiltern] relative to Stoke Wharf.

Saturday 19^th July 1828

Wrote to Mr. Leigh & Mr. Williamson, & sent them Copies of the respective Minutes received from Mr. Vaughan.  Wrote also to Mr. Vaughan who proposed coming here on Monday next, with proposed Statements of Accounts for my consideration, & requesting to see him accordingly.  Went to Newcastle with Eliza.  Received by Post Letter from Mr. Wedgwood with account of his interview with Mr. Telford.

Sunday 20^th July 1828

At home.  Service.  Received Letter from Mr.(Beech?) relative to a proposed Steam Navigation Company for Carriage coastways from Liverpool to London.

Monday 21^st July 1828

James Potter called, & was going to the Reservoir being desirous to know the exact state of which I asked him to breakfast here tomorrow Morning.  Wrote to Mr. Wedgwood.  Engaged on Navigation papers etc.  Received by Post a Letter from Sir George with (Page 78) Copy of a Letter from Mr. [Beech] of Coventry relative to the projected Steam Navigation Company.  Mr. Vaughan came to dinner & staid all night, & with whom engaged on Navigation business.  Wrote by this Post to Mr. Martin in reply to a Letter from him.

Tuesday 22^nd July 1828

Mr. Vaughan went very early.  James Potter came to breakfast, when we recommended that it would be hard for him to see Mr. Telford again before he left the county.  Engaged all day at Newcastle Sessions as Recorder, Two Convictions.  One assault the other Felony.  Dined with the Mayor & Corporation at the Roebuck.  On my arrival home found Letter from Mr. Vaughan with a Statement of the Company's Accounts for my consideration.  Miss Stamford had arrived from her Journey to Chester & Blacon Point.

Wednesday 23^rd July 1828

At home.  Wrote to Mr. B. . .& to Sir George Chetwynd.  Sent James Potter the Section of Knypersley Reservoir Dam.  Miss Dawson called with a Notice which Mr. Wilbraham had given them to [quit] the small piece of Land opposite to their House on the 25 March next.  Application for subscription to G. . .D. . .of England, which I said I would consider of.

Thursday 24^th July 1828

At home.  Engaged on Navigation papers considered proposed Statement of Accounts sent by Mr. Vaughan etc.  Unwell.  Miss Stamford & Eliza called at the Hill.  Wrote to Mr. Wedgwood proposing to travel together to Leamington, & to take him in the Carriage from Stone.

Friday 25^th July 1828

Unwell.  Engaged on Navigation Minutes, which Mr. Vaughan had sent for my inspection.  Heavy Rain.

Saturday 26^th July 1828

At home.  Revised & Copied afresh Minutes of the Proceedings of the Select Committee at their last Meeting.  Eliza & Miss Stamford went to Newcastle & called upon Mrs. Furnival & Mrs. Thorpe at Miss Swinnerton's.  Received by Post Letters from Mr. Ralph Stevenson relative to a Memorial from the Inhabitants of Cobridge to the Navigation Corps, & which I replied to.

Sunday 27^th July 1828

At home.  Service.

Monday 28^th July 1828

At home.  Engaged on Navigation papers preparatory to Journey to Leamington, making copies of sundry Minutes & other Documents to take with me.  James Potter called to report the result of his further Communication with Mr. Telford at Ellesmere & who had reported that he could be of no use till the water was discharged out of the Reservoir, & that he would revisit it directly upon hearing from me.  Mrs. Furnival, Mrs. Thorpe & 3 Miss Swinnertons of Newcastle all dined.  Sent the Carriage to Newcastle for them & I which also went with them back.

Page 79. 1828  July

Tuesday 29^th July 1828

Engaged on sundry matters previous to leaving here on Journey to Leamington.  Having some matters to arrange with Mr. Vaughan, went to Stone in the Carriage.

Wednesday 30^th July 1828

Mr. Wedgwood joined me this morning, & with whom proceeded to Leamington.  Called on the way at Bishton Hall with Mr. Wedgwood joining me, & sat half an hour with Mrs. Sparrow & Mrs. Moreton, Miss Sparrow was out.  Arrived at Leamington about 4 o'clock, & were soon after joined by Sir George, who was accompanied by Miss Chetwynd & Miss Georgina.  Mr. Vaughan had been obliged to go to Stafford, having been summoned as a witness.

Thursday 31^st July 1828

Mr. Vaughan arrived early.  Afterwards engaged at the Meeting as Chairman, & the business of which eventually went off satisfactorily to all Parties, though attended with some on whom . . . at first from the . . . reappearance of the B. & Warwick & .  .& Napton Canal Delegates.

August

Friday 1^st August 1828

Mr. Wedgwood, Mr. Vaughan & I returned home.  Mr. V. travelling on the Bas. . ., Mr. W. & I called at Col. M. . . .but he & Mrs. M. being at [Brigstone] I left my card.  Dined with Mr. W. at Stone, & arrived at home in the evening.  In Warwickshire the Corn harvest was begun, some talk of Wheat being cut, & the Crops upon the whole having a fair appearance.

Saturday 2^nd August 1828

At home, but fatigued and unwell.  Engaged on various & on arrangement of the Papers etc. to be taken to Leamington, & other matters.

Sunday 3^rd August 1828

At home.  Service.. Eliza & Mrs. S. attended at Talk Chapel in the afternoon.

Monday 4^th August 1828

At home.  James Potter came to inform me that he had received instructions from Mr. Telford to cut down to the discharging Pipes.  When I repeated to him the importance of strictly following & abiding by Mr. T. directions.  Received Letters by the Post from Sir George Chetwynd expressing strongly amongst other things his approbation of my conduct in the Chair at the last Meeting at Leamington, & the satisfactory result of the Meeting in conveyance of it to all Parties.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan.  Stamford came to dinner.

Tuesday 5^th August 1828

Went to Newcastle in the Morning pursuant to appointment with Mr. Ward to review as one of the Principles the possession of the Newcastle Brewery from the Magistrates, under a proceeding in . . .Bankruptcy, & which the Trustees Mr. Hatton & Mr. Hall delivered to me accordingly.  Afterwards called at the  Revd. Mr. Bagots at Wolstanton but he was not at home.  Dined at the [Ordinary] at the [Carth] Inn & afterwards attended the Race, which afforded much amusement, there being 4 heats for one of the Places.  On my return found Letters from Mr. Vaughan & Mr. Bent.

Wednesday 6^th August 1828

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Bent.  Wrote to John Trubshaw in reply to a Letter received from him relative to Knypersley Reservoir, & informing him that the Select Committee had put the reservations entirely into the hands of Mr. Telford.  Wrote also to Mr. B. . .informing him of the Scheme for the carriage of Goods by Steam Express [return]Liverpool & London being abandoned.  Stamford came to L. Wood at night from Newcastle Races.

Thursday 7^th August 1828

At home.  Engaged on sundry papers.  Stamford went to the Pottery Races.  In riding this morning into [Banky] Swallow Moor, I got a fall from the bay Pony, occasioned by a sudden & violent Start driving to John Cross by jumping very suddenly from the [Rail] place very near to the horses face & having  before quite hid from sight by the Hedge.  I fell upon my back, & the Horse, though he had been very gay before, never moved a foot after I fell, nor stirred till I was completely seated again in the saddle, though left for sometime entirely loose.  He seemed almost to be considering whether he could give me any assistance.  I never saw a more beautiful instance of fine temper & sagacity.  I had a severe shake, & suffered a good deal of pain in the muscles, but which was much relieved by an embrocation, the recipe for which had been given to Stamford by Mrs. Adderley of Barlaston.

Friday 8^th August 1828

Had an indifferent night, suffering considerable pain, but better this morning.  Referenced Leamington & other Navigation Papers.

Saturday 9^th August 1828

Still unwell from my accident, & with so much pain, as added to the indifferent state of the weather made me relinquish my intention of calling today at Trentham Hall.  Mr. Williams called again relative to the proposed . . .efficient Dictionary, & left me his address at Congleton. 

Looked over various Navigation papers, with a view to a small Map, showing the Lengths & Lockages of the several (Page 81) Canals connected with the Trent & Mersey Canal, & also of the projected Canals.  To this should also be added a Table of the rates of Tonnage, & the amount of such Tonnage between the [promised] places on the line of the Canals.

Sunday 10^th August 1828

Pain much increased.  Service.

Monday 11^th August 1828

In pain still continuing & having had a bad night, sent for Mr. Davenport, who upon his arrival recommended Leeches, 12 of which were applied to the part.  In bed the greater part of the day.  Mr. Johnson of the Hollins called to mention that Mr. Shaw was willing to accommodate me in respect of his Land, & said that he would see him again

Tuesday 12^th August 1828

Rather better night, but still much pain.  Mr. Davenport came again.  In bed all morning.  Stamford called on his way to Trentham to call upon Lord Stafford.  Mrs. Wilbraham, Mr. Randle Wilbraham & two of the younger Miss Wilbraham's called, but I did not see them myself, being too unable to move without much difficulty.

Wednesday 13^th August 1828

A better night, but still in considerable pain.  Mr. Davenport came again.  Better but still considerable pain.  Engaged on Navigation Papers & making out Memorandum of the various matters for attention on out approaching Summary of the Canal.  Mr. Davenport came again.  Mr. Wilbraham called with invitation to dinner at Rode Hall on Thursday next.

Thursday 14^th August 1828

Indifferent & still considerable pain.  Mr. Revd (Robert?) Heath called to ask leave on the part of Mr. Kinnersley, to stop the Boats passing along the new Tunnel (but which he hoped would not be necessary, or if so, not exceeding one hour) in order to carry Bricks for the repair of the Water way by which the Water from Mr. K'.s Mines pass into the Tunnel or . . of the Canal, & which if not done would push the Water into the Mines & occasion great injury, as well as deprive the Canal of a valuable . . .  Under these circumstances, I did not hesitate to give my consent. 

Mr. Heath said he should very shortly fix a day for the Reference relative to Mr. Heathcote Coals.  Eliza & Miss Stamford went after breakfast to Rode House.  Wrote to Mr. Balgary requesting to know if my Letter of the 4th of July last had reached his hands.  In the evening James Potter came.  He said that if Mr. Kinnersley's water way was not repaired, it might be injurious to the Tunnel.  Appointed him to meet the Select Committee at the Tunnel Mouth on Monday morning.  Said he should write to Mr, Telford by this Post.  The water was leaving fast, & of course be out in about a fortnight.

Page 82.  1828  August

Friday 15^th August 1828

Wrote to Mr. Vaughan.  Engaged selecting & arranging papers & plans to take on the approaching survey of the Canal, making further Minutes etc.  Afterwards called at Trentham.  Saw Lord Stafford, by whom I was received with great courtesy & kindness, I had a pleasant conversation with him.  He said Lord Anglesey was very popular in . . ].  Afterwards called at the Revd. Butts & spent half an hour agreeably with him & Mrs Butt.  Returned home to dinner.  Found Letter from Mr. Vaughan.  Still considerable pain from the effects of my Fall.

Saturday 16^th August 1828

Still pain.  Went to Newcastle on various matters.  Eliza accompanying me.  [Executed] at Mr. Kinnersley's Country House.  Letter of Attorney for Sale of 2 . . .Cut Carrots, & which I might have with me.  Received from James Potter improved Section of Knypersley Dam etc.

Sunday 17^th August 1828

At home.  Service.

Monday 18^th August 1828

Set off on Survey of the Canal.  Met Sir George, Mr. Wedgwood & Mr. Vaughan at Stoke Wharf from whence we proceeded together along the Canal & arrived at Middlewich about ½ past 8.

Tuesday 19^th August 1828

Left Middlewich at 6 & arrived at Runcorn about ½ past 12.  After a long & satisfactory conference with Capt. Bradshaw, & viewing the new Locks we set off on our return & arrived at Middlewich about 9.

Wednesday 20^th August 1828

Sir George, Mr. Landon & Mr. Vaughan set off on their return about 6 & Mr. Wedgwood & I about ½ past 7.  He set me down at Swallow Moor Wood & then proceeded homewards.  Still suffering considerable pain from my accident.

Thursday 21^st August 1828

Engaged revising & arranging Navigation Papers, Minutes of Survey etc. etc.  Mr. Thos. [Eld] called with subscription to defray the Costs of the Magistrates in the matter of Smith on [Solent] & towards which I subscribed £5.  Afterwards dined at Rode Hall.  Met Mr. Stacey, Revd. Mr. & Mrs. [Barnes], the latter a sister of Mr. Wilbraham & Mrs. . . .,Mr. Randle Wilbraham & Mr. Charles were also at home.

Friday 22^nd August 1828

At home.  People busy cutting the Wheat on Flat Swallow Moor, which they began a day or two ago.  Wrote Letters to the Revd. Josiah Wood. & (Page 83) Mr. Hollinshead of Liverpool pursuant to the arrangement made by the Select Committee.  Still feeling the effects of my Accident.

Saturday 23^rd August 1828

Wrote to Mr. Whieldon relative to the Wharf at Stoke but thinking it proper to see Mr. Wilkinson previous to sending my Letter, went to Newcastle & saw him when he fully approved of which I have written.  On my return called at James Potters, to whom spoke to him about the Reservoir, but he was gone to Knypersley.  Called upon Mr. Johnson of the Hollins, who fixed to look at Mr. Shaw's Land proposed to be exchanged on Tuesday next & to meet me for that purpose.  Received by Post a harassing & vexatious Letter from Mr. Wedgwood relative to the Marsh's & Eliza . . . Settlement.

Sunday 24^th August 1828

At home.  Service.  Wm. & Roland Bent came to dinner.

Monday 25^th August 1828

Wrote to Mr. Wedgwood in reply to his Letter.  Mr. [Faram] came with whom engaged on Navigation business.  In consequence of what had been thought advisable by Mr. Wedgwood & myself on our late Survey, I told [Faram] that if there were more time, another closer Look might be completed this year.  Wm. [Faram] said that the double Locks, when completed, would make a saving of 5 hours of time between Preston Brook & Harecastle Tunnel, & of 4 hours between Middlewich & the Tunnel.

Tuesday 26^th August 1828

Mr. Samuel Johnson called pursuant to appointment & with whom looked at the Land proposed to be exchanged with Mr. Shaw.  James Potter called relative to Knypersley Reservoir to which he was going & would call here again tomorrow. 

Miss Dawson called in consequence of a pointed Letter which they had received, concerning a Meeting of the Trust holders to consider if Mr. Wilbraham's late inclosure of Robert Heath, when I told her that they are unwilling to interfere on my own account of it as Miss Wrench had an equal continual interest with myself.  I should not think it right to do, or to neglect any thing by what they might be prejudiced.  I therefore recommended it to her to show the Letter to Mr. Skerratt of Sandbach as the Solicitor concerned for all Parties in the Penlington affairs.  In the Evening Stamford came from Buxton.

Wednesday 27^th August 1828

At home, but unwell, as I have been for some days past.  James Potter again called to mention to me that on such examination as was afforded he found the Masonry Work which was said to be faulty, perfectly right and good, & he mentioned it would appear that no fault was . . .in the execution of the Work.  Stamford set off to Chester Assizes.  John Boughey came to inform me of Mr. Shaw's intention to build a public House at the Hollins, & to consult me on some business of his own.

Thursday 28^th August 1828

Still far from well.  Miss Stamford & Eliza went to Newcastle, James Potter again called to inform me that on further inspection he was satisfied that the injury at the Reservoir had been occasioned solely by the leaking of the discharging Pipe, occasioned by the necessary sinking of the Paddle, or the force that had been applied in [censuring] the valve, & that he should write to Mr. Telford by this Post.  Received Letter from Mr. Whieldon relative to Stoke Wharf.  Wrote to A. Marsh relative to the indemnity required by Mr. Wedgwood.

Friday 29^th August 1828

At home.  The collection of the Taxes (Falkener) called relative to 2 Clerk's [notice] paid for by the Navigation Company in Lawton, when I directed him to write to Mr. Vaughan & enquire on what ground the Payment was now objected to.  Mr. Charles Lawton called, respecting the Repair of the Water course through his Land, & by which the water passes into the Canal, when he said that he would direct James [Faram] to call upon & inform me of the particulars.  Received Letter from Mr. Hollinshead of Liverpool in reply to mine of the 22nd .  Finished carrying Wheat.  The young Ladies from Rode Hall called.

Saturday 30^th August 1828

James [Faram] came, also having stated that the water course at Lawton was of the greatest importance to the Company, as the only means of scouring or discharging the [Car] & other deposit out of the Tunnel; & that it had heretofore been supplied by the Company I directed him to do the necessary repairs without delay. 

Mr. Pickford of Manchester called relative to the Carriage of Cotton [Wood] from London to Manchester Coastways via Hull by . . . . . at 2/1 interest of present rate of 3/6 or 4/-, & at which Rate he showed me a Contract that had been entered into.  He represented the necessity of a Reduction of Tonnage in order to meet the Case when I observed that it must be by a mutual Sacrifice with part of the Carriers as well as the Canals.  To this case a general principle he did not object.  I promised to talk to Mr. Vaughan upon the subject, & we parted after a good deal of Canal Conversation. 

Mr. P expressed the highest satisfaction at the double Locks, which he had just come through, & considered them as the greatest improvement after the Tunnel that had been made.  He said he had no doubt this thing would occasion a Saving of several hours between Preston Brook & Harecastle Tunnel.  Mr. P. stated the number of Horses to be 400.  He mentioned as a matter desiring our consideration the state of the Carriage between London & Bristol, a considerable part of which never goes Coastways.

Sunday 31^st August 1828

At home.  Service.  Unwell.

September

Monday 1^st September 1828

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Wedgwood in reply to his Letter.  Still unwell, & suffering severely from my wretched nervous Malady, much increased by the vexatious correspondence with Mr. Wedgwood.  Wrote to Mr. Hollinshead of Liverpool in reply to his Letter requesting my opinion of the Macclesfield Canal.

Tuesday 2^nd September 1828

Engaged on Navigation Papers, & making Minutes of business for the Select & General Committee at their next Meeting.  Eliza & Miss Stamford went to call at Lawton Hall, but met Mrs. Lawton on the Road.  In the meantime Mrs. Morton called.  Suffering a great deal from an inflammation of one of my eyes, which renders writing or reading painful.

Wednesday 3^rd September 1828

Though my eyes still continue very troublesome, yet revised & copied the Minutes of the Select Committee their late Survey of the Canal to be sent to Stone for entry in the Book.  Hearing nothing from James Potter relative to Mr. Telford's coming to the Reservoir on Monday next, went to Lawton to have seen him, but he was gone to Knypersley.  Stamford came to dinner from Chester Assizes.

Thursday 4^th September 1828

James Potter came with Letter from Mr. Telford.  Afterwards wrote Letters to Sir George Chetwynd & Mr. Wedgwood informing them that Mr. Telford would not be at Knypersley on Monday next, but appointing to be myself at Stone at 11 on Monday, from whence we might proceed to the Reservoir if thought expedient when we went. 

Stamford set off to the [Quarterly] Meeting at Stone.  Began clearing the brushwood at the bottom of the Walk working to Lawton in order to gain a more extensive view of that side of the country.  James Potter came late at night to enquire at what he must permit a Mr. Hamilton who had been sent by Mr. Sneyd, of Ashcombe to measure the dam, calculate the quantity of soil removed etc. to examine the same, when I desired him to give Mr. Hamilton every facility & information in his power.

Page 86.  1828  September

Friday 5^th September 1828

Wrote to Mr. Vaughan & sent him by Post the Minutes of the Select Committee for entry in the Book.  Received Note from Wm. [Farnam] appointing to see me at 12 o'clock tomorrow.  Eyes still very troublesome.  Engaged with Chesters & the Gardner at the Stone Cliff Wood.  Afterwards made out & copied afresh Minutes of Business for Select Committee on Monday next.

Saturday 6^th September 1828

Wm [Farnam] Came pursuant to his appointment, & bringing with him his Report as to the practicability of a Communication being made between the Macclesfield Canal & the Stockport.  Received by him Letter from Mr. Vaughan.  Received by the Post a most unsatisfactory Letter from A. Marsh, informing me that he could not at present come down.

Sunday 7^th September 1828

Miserably bad night.  Service.  Received Letter from Mr. Littleton relative to a reduction of the Tonnage of Iron from . . .

Monday 8^th September 1828

Up early.  Wrote to Mr. Wedgwood in consequence of A. Marsh 's Letter.  Afterwards went to Stone.  Sir George afterwards came, when we proceeded to Knypersley Reservoir.  Mr. Wedgwood not having met us at Stone.  Inspected the Dam etc.  Returned to Stone to dinner.  Wedgwood having in our absence arrived.

Wedgwood Archive

28-20662

8 September 1828

Letter from James Caldwell to Josiah Wedgwood regarding the marriage trust of Arthur and Anne Marsh.  James apologises to Josiah and confirms that should he suffer any costs then James will meet these costs.

Diary of James Caldwell (1759-1838) of Linley Wood, Talke, Staffordshire, England.

The following is a transcription from the diary of James Caldwell.  This volume covers the period 1827-1829 (129 pages).  For transcriptions of other diaries and notes please click here (Index of notes and diaries of James Caldwell).

Diary of James Caldwell 

Tuesday 9^th September 1828

Engaged on Select Committee.  Afterwards in General Committee etc. fatiguing day, & an inconsideration being shown by some Members that I think anyone no good to the interest of the . . . Dined at Stone, & returned at night.  Soon after my arrival at home Anne Marsh arrived with her seven Children.

Wednesday 10^th September 1828

Tired & unwell.  Wrote to Mr. F. Twemlow accepting an invitation which he had given me to dine at Betley Court on Friday to meet Sir Thomas Boughey & his Brother.  Wrote to Mr. Littleton in reply to his Letter.  Received Letter from Mr. Yates with Draft of an Agreement relative to the right of way along the Towpath as observed.

Thursday 11^th September 1828

Wrote to Mr. Yates in reply to his Letter.  Looked over papers relative to Consall Forge.  Violent Shower of Rain.  Far from well, & my eyes very troublesome.

Page 87.  1828  September

Friday 12^th September 1828

At home.  Rain.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan.  Unwell & the same as yesterday.  Mrs. C. Lawton called.  Mr. Shaw & Mr. Booth called relative to the proposed Exchange of Land, when it was thought it proper first to ascertain whether Mr. Shaw's Land was Copy hold or Freehold, & which Mr. S. undertook to do.

Saturday 13^th September 1828

At home.  Received Letter from Mr. Booth with Notices to John Boughey to quit the House at the Hollins at Ladyday next, which I required, & returned to Mr. Booth.  Still unwell. 

Nerves, which are accessible to that morbid degree of . . .,by which the mind is incited not only without the consent of our reason, but can contrary to its dictates, occasion of that lead to a sinking of the Heart which so frequently . . .with the angers from part of imaginary evil, whatever is in its immediate tendency protective of present pleasure, or promising future happiness. (Hoffmans Case).  Stamford came to dinner. 

Received Letter from Mr. Wedgwood, Marsh's business.  The little dog given me by James Potter, & which had become a great favourite with us all, was found dead by the fireside this morning

Sunday 14^th September 1828

At home.  Service.  "Let us leave from this Story of our Saviour not to judge of them & their Religion so much by their Faith, as by what they do, to consider not so much whatever their opinions are in our particular judgement right and sound as whether thei actions are good and praiseworthy."   Herring Sermon on the parable of the Good Samaritan.  Received a Letter from Sir George Chetwynd.

Monday 15^th September 1828

Wrote to Sir George in reply to his Letter.  At home.  Laid out new Walk in Stone Cliff Wood.  Engaged on various other matters.  Received Letter from Mr. Potts of Chester relative to the completion of the Field Cos. . .of the drive from Heald Green to Middlewich.

Tuesday 16^th September 1828

Went to Newcastle as Recorder to meet the Bishop at the Public Breakfast given by the Mayor & Corporation on occasion of the Consecration of the new Church called St. Georges & afterwards attended the Service in the Church.  Returned to dinner.  Found two Miss Holland's on their return.

Wednesday 17^th September 1828

Wrote to Mr. Potts of Chester.  The Hollands left us at noon , the Carriage taking them to Brereton Green. 

Went to the Red Bull Wharf to have seen an experimental Canal Boat propelled by Steam now on her passage from London but she was not [arrived].  Called at the Revd. Mr. Mainwaring at [Biddenhall] but he being from home left an Invitation to dinner on Saturday next.  Just as I had finished received a Note from Mr. Gordon the Inventor of the Steam Boat inviting me to come & look at it near the Red Bull Wharf. 

Went immediately & looked over the Boat at the 2 Lock.  Found Mr. [Gorton] & a Sir Thomas [Jenkins] to whom he introduced as a Gentleman who had accompanied him to observe the operation of the Boat, considering that the invention might be highly important.  I had time only to ask a few leading Questions but I was by no means satisfied as to the success of the thing, either as it relates to comparative expense, or the Stowage Room, the latter of which would be diminished about one third, & of the former, or what I thought still more extraordinary the necessary consumption of Coal they could give me no account. 

The principle is the same as the Common Steam . . .but the wheels being within instead of outside the Boat, no . . .arises from this occupying Space, & the injury to the Sides of the Canal from immense Action of the Water seems sufficiently guarded against.  The average speed 3 miles an hour, but this might, it was said, be increased to 4 or 4.5 mph without injury to the Canal. 

The Engine on board this Boat was a 6 horse power.  From my observation of this Boat I do not think the Convenience can answer any of the purpose, but I arranged to see attempts making to apply Steam to Canal Navigation, though I greatly doubt the ultimate success, but there is no setting limits to human ingenuity in the application of one the most powerful Agents of nature. 

James Potter came late in the evening relative to an arrangement being made for Mr. Telford's inspection of the state of the work at Knypersley Reservoir & which he said would be ready for that purpose by the 29 instant, when I desired him to breakfast here tomorrow Morning & that I would in the meantime consider what would be the most [desirable]to be done.  A. Marsh went to Parkfields.

Friday 19^th September 1828

James Potter came to breakfast when we finally fixed Saturday the 4 as the most convenient time for convening a Meeting of the Committee to confer with Mr. Telford upon his inspection of the work, & I afterwards wrote to him accordingly & delivered my Letter to James Potter at the Red Bull in order to it being forwarded from . . . there being no Post to London this day.  Saw Mr. Johnson again relative to exchange of Land with Mrs Law.  He said there were no Coals in his Land at all worth getting.  Mrs. Twemlow & Miss [Fletcher] called.

Page 89.  1828  September

Saturday 20^th September 1828

Mr. Vaughan came to breakfast, & with whom engaged a considerable time on various Navigation business.  Mrs. Sparrow, Mr. & Mrs. Wilkinson, Revd. Mr. Mainwaring & Revd. Mr. Carter dined.  Ann returned before dinner from Camp Hills.

Sunday 21^st September 1828

Very unwell with a severe cold & inflammation of the Chest.  Service.

Monday 22^nd September 1828

The same.  John Boughey called in consequence of the Notice with which he had been served to quit at Lady day next, when I told him that his staying would do no good it being for himself as one & that he must go.  He also brought a Quarters Rent but which I declined receiving further till I had seen Mr. Booth. 

William Brittain to inform me that Mr. Benjamin Eardley had begun to sink for Coal in Mr. Shaw's Land.  Having in his History of [Manners] etc. from 1485 to 1575 says Gaming became more [subordinate] and [resinous] but let not Cards be therefore depreciated, unhappy invention, which, adapted equally to every capacity, sometimes the invitations determinations of mature, [listens] on fools the pre-eminence of genius, or redresses wit and wisdom to the levels of folly.  Henry Hart . Vol12. P385.  E. Roscoe & her eldest Boy arrived at Noon.  Mrs. & the youngest Miss Northen called.

Tuesday 23^rd September 1828

At home, but still so unwell as not to (go) out of doors.  Charles Cowell came to consult me on the Will of the late Miss Jane Audley of Nantwich when I advised him to see Mr. Wm. Tomlinson the Justice [under] the Will.

Wednesday 24^th September 1828

Better & went out.  Wrote to Mr. Hugh Williamson relative to Knypersley Reservoir.  Revised & Copied afresh for Entry in the Book the Minutes of the Proceedings of the Select Committee on the 8th & of the Committee on the 9th of June last.  Anne Marsh & E. Roscoe went to Betley & returned later to dinner.  Samuel Beardmore came in the evening to inform me of a design of getting Coals in the Meadow in his holding belonging to Talk Chapel.

Thursday 25^th September 1828

Mr. Potter & James Potter called to inform me that they had now got down to the discharging pipes & that it now appears that a great deal of the ones which had been done by the forcing of the Pipes & the too sudden discharge of the water & which if the management had been left to them they could have been prevented so that better . . .expense would have been incorrect.  For the correction of this Statement they should refer to Mr. Telford whom he had inspected the work.

Page 90.  1828  September

Thursday 26^th September 1828

William Brittain came again relative to Mr. Shaw's sinking for Coals at Talk.  Afterwards went with Samuel Beardmore & looked over the various Grounds to inform against as to the publishing of any work being established that might be injurious to Linley Wood by Engines, Rail Roads etc. & the result of which proved satisfactory in this information. 

Mr. Brittain said there was a lump of Coal in Linley Meadow, but none worth getting in the Chapel Lands, & fraction in the Meadow next above Linley Meadow.  In this he agrees in what Mr. Johnson says.  Mrs. & two Miss Tollets, Mrs. & Elizabeth Wedgwood of Maer called, the two latter staid to dinner & returned at night.

Friday 26^th September 1828

At home.  Revd. & Mr. & Mrs. Butt, Miss Edwards, Mr. Daniel Whalley & Dr. Northen dined.  Late in the evening James Potter came to inform that Mr. Telford was in the neighbourhood & would inspect the Reservoir in a day or two.  Presuming that he had not received my Letter communicating the wishes of the Committee, & desired him to tell Mr. Telford that I must at all events see him.  I gave J.P. the Copy of my Letter to show to Mr. T. 

I received by this evenings Post one of the most truly kind & friendly Letters from Sir George Chetwynd, that ever came to my hands, & by which I cannot but feel highly gratified as demean to [strive] of his esteem & request for me.

Saturday 27^th September 1828

At home.  Sent early to James Potter expressing my wish to see him, but he was not at Lawton.  Engaged afterwards on various matters on the Farm.  Received Letter from Mr. H. Williamson in reply to mine of the 24.

Sunday 28^th September 1828

At home.  Service.  Received by Post Letters from Mr. Telford & Mr. Wedgwood of Maer.

Monday 29^th September 1828

My Eyes painful, & troubled also with a Boil upon my arm.  Engaged perusing & selecting papers preparatory to going to Leamington & making Minutes of matters to be considered by the Select Committee.  Mr. Jas. Potter came to inform me that Mr. Telford had inspected the Reservoir on Saturday last, that he had not received my Letter of September 19 owing to his absence in North Wales.

J. Potter stated that he had delivered to Mr. Telford my [way] out request to see him & my offer to see him any where that he would appoint.  Mr. T. having expressed a doubt whether in his Report he was to notice the Causes of the misfortune at Knypersley Reservoir, I wrote to him by this Post, requesting that he would furnish me with a full Report, both as to the Causes as well as the Remedies, thinking this necessary for the satisfaction of all Parties concerned.

Tuesday 30^th September 1828

Again busy on Papers preparatory to leaving home tomorrow.

October

Wednesday 1^st October 1828

Set off on Journey to Leamington to attend Meeting of Delegates.  Mr. Wedgwood met me at Stone, with whom & Mr. Vaughan proceeded to Grendon Hall in the Carriage.  Called on our way at [Bishton]. & sat half an hour with Mrs. & Miss Sparrow, & Mrs. Moreton who happened to be there.  Arrived at Grendon Hall a quarter before 5, & met with a most kind & truly friendly reception from Sir George & Lady Chetwynd, the young Ladies, & Mr. Chetwynd who was there with an Oxford friend, a Mr. Ellison who we found a very agreeable & Gentlemanly young man.  There was also a Mr. Webb an artist from Tamworth, who was painting some Horses for Sir George, & which promised to be a pleasing & good picture.

Thursday 2^nd October 1828

Breakfasted early at Grendon Hall & proceeded to Leamington taking Kenilworth Ruins on our way, which we got out of the Carriage, & walked over from there by [Gorge] Cliff to Warwick & Leamington when we arrived about ½ past 11.  Full Meeting of Delegates, but the Birmingham & Warwick& the Oxford Canal Companies not having affected an arrangement of their Tonnage we adjourned to the 26 November next.

Page 92.  1828  October

Friday 3^rd October 1828

Left Leamington between 7 & 8.  Breakfasted at Coventry.  Stopped ½ an hour at Grendon which I promised again to revisit on the 26 of November.  Called at [Bishton], & arrived at Linley Wood about 6.  Distance in 10 hours at 75 miles including stoppages.

Saturday 4^th October 1828

Wrote to Mr. Vaughan & sent him the Minutes of the Select Committee & Committee for Entry in the Book.  Received Letter from Mr. Gordon, with further particulars relative to his Steam Boat.  Received from Mr. Wilkinson the papers relative to Consall Forge Water for my further perusal & consideration.  Made Minutes of the Order of the Select Committee relative to the executing of the Middlewich Communication in consequence of the Letter received from Mr. Potts.  My eyes painful & troublesome, & fatigued with the Journey & exertion of the last 3 days.

Sunday 5^th October 1828

At home.  Service.  In the evening James Potter  who I had sent for with whom engaged relative to his inspecting the Steam Boat, on its return on Tuesday next.  Also relative to Mr. Telford's Report & the Communication at Middlewich, which he said it would be early enough to begin upon in the Spring, & that it might be done by our own people.

Monday 6^th October 1828

Revised, corrected & made sundry additions to the observations relative to Consall Forge & copied them afresh for the use of Mr. Wedgwood.  Boils upon my hand & arm very troublesome.  Wrote note to Mr. Gordon to be sent tomorrow morning.  In the evening Edward Crompton arrived.  Received Letter from Mr. Wilkinson requesting me to send the Plans etc. over before Wednesday next.

Tuesday 7^th October 1828

Wrote to Mr. Wedgwood, & Mr. Wilkinson with the Consall Forge Observations & sent them with the Plans etc. to Mr. Wilkinson by Samuel Jones.  Sent note to Mr. Gordon.  The Boils became so troublesome that I sent a note to the Mayor of Newcastle excusing my dining with him today as I had engaged to do.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan relative to the Steam Boat etc.  Received further Letter from Mr. Gordon relative to the arrival of the Steam Boat at the Red Bull this day instead of yesterday.

Page 93.  1828  October

Wednesday 8^th October 1828

At home.  Still troubled by the Boils & which made writing inconvenient.  James [Weather] paying his half year's Rent.  Mentioned that Mr. Tollet was beginning to get Coals in the Land held by Thos. Hollins, & close to the Road side.  Mr. [Frederick] Tomlinson dined & brought the Assigned from Miss Stamford to J.S.C. of the . . . of the Houses in Gower Street.

Thursday 9^th October 1828

At home & in the House all day.  Mr. F. Tomlinson went after breakfast.  My hand still very troublesome, & with considerable pain & which prevented writing.

Friday 10^th October 1828

Still very unwell, & unfit for business, but walked out a little in the middle of the day with Eliza.

Saturday 11^th October 1828

Better, but still unwell.  Looked over and arranged the various Navigation Reports which I had prepared & read to the General Assemblies from the year 1820 inclusive.  Received Note from the Mayor of Newcastle requesting to see me at the Sessions on Tuesday next, & which I answered by the Messenger promising to attend.

Sunday 12^th October 1828

Still better, but my Arm & Eyes very troublesome.  Service as usual.  In the evening Mr. Davenport to look at my hand & Arm.

Monday 13th October 1828

Edward Crompton left us after an early breakfast, on his return home.  Stamford who had been here since Tuesday last also returned to Rode House.  Hand & arm better but still troublesome.

Tuesday 14th October 1828

Went to Newcastle, & attended the Sessions.  One conviction for Larceny.  Saw Mr. Wilkinson relative to the Consall Forge business.  Dined with the Mayor at the Castle Inn & returned home in the Evening.  In the course of the day saw Mr. Booth, who I requested to call upon John Boughey & make some arrangements for his leaving the House at the Hollins.  Mr. Booth again expressing his opinion that he was not fit for the situation.  Saw also Mr. Sneyd of Bradwall, who was passing through Newcastle, & would . . .as to be able to go about in his open Carriage.  On my return found Letter from Wm. Bent with an account of the Registration for the . . .of the Newcastle Brewery to Miss . . .[Lewis] & [Fitzjohn].

Page 94.  1828  October

Wednesday 15^th October 1828

At home.  Received by Post Letter from Sir George Chetwynd informing me that the differences between the Oxford & the Birmingham & Warwick Canal Companies had not been settled & wishing to have my opinion as to the course & [direction].

Thursday 16^th October 1828

Considered attentively Sir George 's Letter, & as he expressed a wish that I would talk the matter over with Mr. Wedgwood, wrote Letter to him this morning, inclosing Sir George's, & sent them by a servant to Etruria.  Wrote also to Mr. Vaughan.  At home all day.  Better but still not well, my hand continuing troublesome.

Friday 17^th October 1828

Perused & considered the Leamington Papers, & making observations relative to the Tonnages in difference between the Oxford & the B & W & W & N Canal Companies preparatory to conferring with Mr. Wedgwood.  Received from Mr. Vaughan in the evening the Birmingham & Warwick & Warwick & Napton Canal Acts, which I had requested him to peruse for me.  At home.

Saturday 18^th October 1828

At home.  Engaged on Navigation.  Perused & considered the Acts of Parliament. 33,34,&36 Gov. 3, received from Mr. Vaughan & particularly with a view to the proposed Reduction of Tonnage.  Afterwards wrote long Letter to Sir George Chetwynd, Mr. W. having sent me back Sir G. Letter, informed me that he had written to him, in which [needed] our Meeting appeared to be rendered necessary.  Anne Marsh returned from Camp Hill having sent the horses for her this morning.  Received Letter from John Lawrence informing me of a Report that Mr. [Tawney] had . . .with Eyre Lee.

Sunday 19^th October 1828

At home.  Service.  James Bent came to dinner.  Received by the Post a Letter from Mr. John Lawrence informing me that the Oxford Canal Company had consented to a jurisdiction of the proposed London & Birmingham Canal with their Canal at [Brinklow].

Monday 20^th October 1828

At home.  Eyes still very troublesome.  [Bottled] the Pipe of . . .had from [Carbonell] & Sons, & of which Mr. Bent had me think 54.5.  Stamford called on his return from Stafford Sessions.  Looked over papers previous to replying to Mr. Lawrence's Letter.

Page 95.  1828  October

Tuesday 21^st October 1828

Wrote to Mr. Lawrence.  Mr. Skerratt & Bessy came before dinner.  Anne Marsh + 3 dined at the Revd. Mr. Butts.  Also Mr. & Mrs. Jos. Wedgwood & Miss C. Wedgwood Mr. & Capt. . . .

Wednesday 22^nd October 1828

At home, engaged in the morning with Mr. Skerratt.  Mr. Wedgwood came on the Navigation business of the Oxford Canal etc. & with whom engaged a considerable time.  The [Roadmarks] down Swallow Moor Wood, & Millend.  Mr. Wickstead & Mr. Clive afterwards called.  Received by Post a Letter from Sir George Chetwynd in reply to mine, & of which he expressed great appreciation.  In the evening William [Faram] with his Report upon an actual Survey which I had desired him to make, of the Line of the Birmingham & Liverpool Canal, & with whom engaged a long time.  Stamford dined & staid all night

Friday 24^th October 1828

Wrote Letter to Mr. Wedgwood inclosing for his perusal the one received yesterday from Sir. George.  Took Mr. Skerratt in the Carriage to Newcastle where I put my Letter to Mr. Wedgwood into the Post office.  Perused & considered [Farams]Report.

Saturday 25^th October 1828

At home.  Wrote to William [Faram] relative to his Report.  Engaged with Mr. Skerratt & on purpose relative to a Codicil to his to his will.  Received  Letter from Mr. Wedgwood, returning Sir George's.

Sunday 26^th October 1828

At home.  Service.  Received Letter by the Post from Sir George also from Mr. Vaughan proposing to come to Linley Wood to confer with me.  Mr. Davenport came & who I consulted about my Eyes.  He advised me to write as little as possible.

Monday 27^th October 1828

Received Letter from Mr. [Faram] with reply to my Queries upon his Report.  Wrote to Mr. Lawrence of Birmingham.  Wrote also to Mr. Vaughan requesting to see him at dinner on Wednesday next, & to stay all night.  Copied & delivered to Mr. Skerratt . . .relative to a Codicil to his Will for the consideration of Mr. [Edleston].  Bessy & Mr. Skerratt left us on their return home, &sent the Carriage with them.  Writing rendered very troublesome by the Complaint in my eyes.  Considered Sir Georges Letter & determined not to call upon Mr. Wedgwood at Maer today as I had at first intended, but to wait till I heard again from Sir George.  Called at the Red Bull Wharf, & appointed by tomorrow morning for seeing Wm. [Faram].

Page 96.  1828 October

Tuesday 28th October 1828

Wm. [Faram] came & with whom engaged a long time on his Report, & finally desired him to enquire into & examine the Supplies of Water could be obtained for the Birmingham & Liverpool & the Chester & Ellsemere Canals, in order to ascertain their ultimate capacity to compete with the T & M Canal.  Wrote to Mr. Wedgwood & sent him Sir Georges Letter of the 25.  Afterwards engaged on Papers & making further observations relative to the Oxford & W & N & W & Birmingham Canal Tonnages.  Mr. Davenport.  Eyes rather better, but still far from well.

Wednesday 29^th October 1828

Received Letter from Mr. [Faram] with Plan of Land & Buildings adjoining the T & M Canal at Middlewich, the purchase of which he had strongly recommended when here yesterday.  James Potter called & reported upon the progress making with the work at Knypersley.  Mentioned also his Salary & said that if appeared by the Select Committee, he had no objection to be on this to be satisfied by Mr. Telford.  Mentioned also James Trubshaw having been to Knypersley on Wednesday the 21 with Mr. Trubshaw looking at the [work] & who said that he came by order of the Special Committee.  Mr. Vaughan came about eleven o'clock, & with whom engaged with them on various Navigation business, on which he wished to consult me.  Suffered a good deal today from my Eyes.  Weather remarkably & beautifully fine.

Thursday 30^th October 1828

At home.  Made Minutes of business for next Meeting of the Select Committee.  Mr. Davenport came.  My Eyes very troublesome.

Friday 31^st October 1828

At home.  Still suffering much from my Eyes.  Eliza & Ann Marsh went to Newcastle & Wolstanton.  Received by the Post Letters from Sir George Chetwynd & from Mr. Lawrence, the former containing a Copy of a Letter from Mr. [Tawney] with the most desired contradiction of his having had anything to do with Mr. Eyre Lee.

November

Saturday 1^st November 1828

Eyes still very troublesome, but wrote to Mr. Wedgwood, & sent him by a Messenger , Sir Georges Letter.  Wrote also a long Letter to Sir George.  In the House all day, being fearful of the cold on account of my Eyes.  In the evening received Letter from Mr. Wedgwood returning Sir Georges.

Page 97.  1828  November

Sunday 2^nd November 1828

Again in the House all day on account of my Eyes, but Service as usual.  Stamford came to dinner, & staid all night.  Sent my Letter to Sir George by this Evenings Post, it not having gone by the last nights.

Monday 3^rd November 1828

At home.  Stamford went after breakfast.  My Eyes nearly the same as yesterday, and so as to prevent much writing or reading.  Looked over sundry Navigation Papers, & wrote a Letter to be sent to Mr. Telford if I do not hear from him in a few days.  Walked out with Eliza a short time, but found the air too sharp for my eyes, though the Weather continues uncommonly fine.

Tuesday 4^th November 1828

Still the same.  Received by Post Letter from Mr. Lawrence inclosing W & Napton & W & Birmingham Canal [Development], & also relative to the present Canal differences.  In the evening worked my eyes with vinegar & water preparatory to using a prescription of Mr. Alexanders.

Wednesday 5^th November 1828

Found benefit from the vinegar & water.  About a teaspoonful of the former to about half in Teacupful of cold water, with which wash the eyes in the morning & at night.  Wrote to Mr. Lawrence.  Used Mr. Alexanders Lotion, 2 or 3 times in the day.  Writing or reading still very troublesome.  Weather cold, which left me almost the whole of the day in the House:  "How truly may be applied to many of the Schemes with which the Public suffered themselves to be deluded." Drydens observation as applied to Peoples in Poetry. "like a screaming demonstration in mathematics, very spacious in the Diagram but failing in the mechanic operation". A good practical point of universal use & application!

Thursday 6^th November 1828

Mr. Davenport came, Anne Marsh being much indisposed.  He approved of the vinegar & water & the Lotion for my Eyes, but advised me by all means to abstain from writing for some days.  Received from Miss Dawson a Letter from Miss Wrench, referring it to Miss D & myself to do what we should judge best relative to the late inclosures of Rode Heath, & the proceedings of the Freeholders.  Returned the Letter to Miss D, but desired her to take care of it as our Authority.

Friday 7^th November 1828

My Eyes somewhat better, but avoided writing as much as possible, & in the House almost the whole of the day, the weather being very windy & cold.  Eliza & five of the Children went to Rode House.  Looked over sundry Navigation papers & Papers in Penlington Affairs.

Saturday 8^th November 1828

At home, but a dull idle day, thinking it better from the state of my Eyes, neither to write nor read.  Mr. Davenport came again to see Anne Marsh.  Responded my [entertaining] to use Mr. Alexanders Lotion & to use my eyes as little as possible.  Received a Band of . . .from Mr. B Hollnshead.  Wrote to Mr, Vaughan to fix the 25 for settling the

Treasurers Account.

Sunday 9^th November 1828

Much the same, but Service as usual.  Sent Letter to Mr. Vaughan

Monday 10^th November 1828

Eyes rather better.  Mr, Davenport came again.  Found Anne better.  Mr. Tollet & Miss Ellen called, on their way to Liverpool.  Eliza had this morning sent a servant to Betley Hall postponing Mrs. & the Miss Tollets intended visit tomorrow to Linley Wood, on account of Anne's indisposition.  Mrs, & Miss Willbraham called.  Received Letter from Mr. Vaughan.

Tuesday 11^th  November 1828

Eyes not so well.  Received note from Mr. Wedgwood informing me that he should set off to London on Thursday next, but would meet us at Leamington on the 27th , said he thought Mr. Vaughans attendance there unnecessary !!!!  What can Mr. W. mean? But of some Persons, as with things, one can only feel & exclaim " Nil admirandum".  Received a Birmingham Newspaper by the Post containing the Notice of the intended London & Birmingham Junction Canal from [Brinklow] to the Stratford Canal signed by Eyre Lee.

Wednesday 12^th November 1828

Eyes much the same , I kept in the House all day.  Received by the Post Letter from Sir George Chetwynd, & another from Mr. Lawrence, relative to the Oxford & the W & Napton Canal differences.  Stamford came to dinner & staid all night.  Mr. Davenport came twice to see Anne Marsh.  Wrote, & sent by Samuel Beardmore.  Letter to Mr. Shaw giving him Notice not to sport upon my Lands in the parishes of Audley & Barthomley, he having very uncivilly said that he would do so till he had regular Notice to the contrary, & having on other respects [Lakewood] unhandsomely by taking improper person with him etc.

Thursday 13^th November 1828

Still nearly the same, but my Eyes rather better.  Mr. Davenport came.  Sent Servant to Stamford to request Mr. Holland would see Anne Marsh Mr. D thinking this might tend to tranquillize her mind.  Received Letters by Post from Mr. Vaughan, & also one from Mr. Ward informing me that the Court had refused to [disturb] the verdict obtained at the Assizes in the Course of B. . .& others . . .Mr. Davenport came again in the Evening & staid all night.

Friday 14^th November 1828

Mr. Holland of Knutsford came to breakfast, & brought us the painful intelligence of the illness of Dr. Holland.  Eyes rather better.  Wrote long Letter to Sir G. Chetwynd.  Wrote also to Mr. Vaughan & to Mr. Ward of Newcastle.  Mr. Davenport came again in the evening, & staid all night.  Rain.

Page 99.  1828  November

Saturday 15^th November 1828

Eyes gradually improving.  Arthur Marsh arrived by the Mail, & brought a favourable account of Dr. Holland, who had been pronounced out of danger.  Mr. Davenport came again in the Evening, & staid all night.

Sunday 16^th November 1828

Service.  Sent to Mr. Holland of Knutsford requesting him to see Anne again.  Mr. Davenport came in the evening, but could not stay all night.

Monday 17^th November 1828

Engaged on Papers preparatory to seeing Mr. Vaughan tomorrow.  Mr. Holland came to dinner & staid all night.  Received Letter from Sir Geo. Chetwynd with copy of one from Mr. [Groom} the Receiver general of the county relative to the Land ton chargeable upon Canals.  Eyes not so well.  Mr. Davenport came.

Tuesday 18^th November 1828

Mr. Holland went after breakfast.  Mr. Vaughan came, & with whom engaged on the Minutes & proceedings of the Select Committee, & Committee, & making Memorandums & Arrangements for the General Assembly etc.  Engaged till late in the Evening.  He left with me the Cash Book, in order that I might examine the Casting of the [Columns] previous to meeting Mr. Thomas Salt on Tuesday.  Mr. Davenport came.

Wednesday 19^th November 1828

Mr. Vaughan went after breakfast.  Wrote to Mr. Telford.  Began examination of the Cash Book.  Arthur Marsh went about ½ past one on his return to London.  Received by the Post Letter from Sir George Chetwynd.

Thursday 20^th November 1828

Eyes still indifferent.  Finished the Cash Book.  Stamford dined.  Mr. Davenport came.

Friday 21^st November 1828

Engaged all morning on various Navigation Papers selecting the same & making Minutes preparatory to the Meeting at Leamington etc.  Mrs. & Miss C. Wedgwood of Maer, Mr.& Mrs & Miss F Northen the Revd. Mr. Mainwaring & Stamford dined.  Mrs. H [Balcombe] who was to have dined, was prevented by the death of Dr. Balcombe Snr.  In the evening Eliza Roscoe arrived, having been detained by an . . .of the Coach at Knutsford, but from who sustained no further injury than a sprain of the wrist.

Saturday 22^nd November 1828

James Potter came by my appointment to report upon the state of the Knypersley Reservoir & with whom engaged a considerable time.  Afterwards Wm. [Faram] brought his Report of the Supplies of water on the Birmingham & Liverpool Junction &

Page 100.  1828  November

Chester Canals & with whom also engaged a considerable time.  Mr. Holland of Knutsford again to see Anne.

Sunday 23^rd November 1828

Service.  " Upon the whole: if we have any regard to plain reason, and natural equity, if we wish peace and prosperity either to our fellow creatures, or ourselves, if we have any concern for the glory of God, and the honour of his dispensations: let us not presume to exercise dominion over other men's faith, or take any steps towards opposing their understanding, or impairing their liberties - even remembering that divine rule of 'dealing' with others,as we would be dealt with ourselves".   Balgary

Monday 24^th November 1828

How well does the above apply to the personal agitation of the Catholic Question.  At home.  Engaged with Papers etc.  preparatory to leaving home tomorrow morning on Journey to Stone & Leamington.

Tuesday 25^th November 1828

Went to Stone early.  Met Mr. Thos. Salt with whom  & Mr. Vaughan engaged all day settling Treasurers & other Accounts.

Wednesday 26^th November 1828

Went to Grendon Hall, taking Mr. Vaughan with me, & where we arrived about 3, having called at Bishton,& saw Mrs & Miss Sparrow, on my way, also called upon Mr. Landon at Rugeley & with whom I had a conversation relative to the redemption of the Land Tax.  Long conference with Sir George, Mr. Wedgwood  not being there.  Met at dinner Mr. & Mrs. [Banebridge], Mr. Henry [Banebridge], & Mr. Grove, who Sir George had requested to meet me in order that we might confer upon the subject of the Redemption of the Land [ton] payable in respect of the Canal.  In the evening long conversation with Sir George & Mr. Grove, having previously perused & considered a Case which had been prepared by Mr. Landon, & which he desired to meet at Rugeley with the opinion of Mr. . . .thereon.

Thursday 27^th November 1828

Left Grendon Hall after an early breakfast & arrived at Leamington at 12.  On our way we had seen Mr. [Barker] of Coventry, & I had had some conversation with him, but he arrived soon after us.  Meeting of Delegates formed, & on which attentively engaged as Chairman.  [Much] went of transfer shares by some of the Partners, but which was the

Page 101.  1828  November

[length] principal & a Resolution came to [trust] application of all present that undertook application I had, be made to the Landowners by Mr. [Barker] of Birmingham.  Mr. Wedgwood had arrived at Leamington just before ourselves.

Friday 28th November 1828

Left Leamington at 8 this morning bringing with us Miss Emma Wedgwood, who was on her return from Clifton, [Back]. . .at Coventry.  Stopped half an hour at Grendon Hall from where I brought Mr. & Miss E Wedgwood in the Carriage to Stone.  Arrived at home at 7.  Mr. Vaughan had gone by the way of Birmingham.  Found A. Marsh who arrived on Tuesday last.  Stamford also came on Wednesday.  The bay horse which I previously purchased from Mr. . . .had been stolen out of the Pastures on Wednesday night last.

Saturday 29th November 1828

Engaged closely on Navigation Papers from 9 0'clock till half past two.  Selecting & arranging the same, making Minutes & Memorandums for Select Committee, Committee, & General Assembly, preparing Resolution to be submitted to the General Assembly relative to the Oxford Canal Bill etc. etc.  Late in the evening received from Wm. [Faram] Letter & Statements showing the . . .of timely means of the 4 double Locks now in operation.

Sunday 30^th November 1828

Wrote to Wm. [Faram] & James Potter to attend at Stone on the Committee & General Assembly.  Service.

December

Monday 1^st December 1828

 Went to Stone where engaged all day on the Committee.  In the Chair Lord Harrowby who attended, & who I had requested to take it, delivering it from any who were pleased to explain greater friendship & acquaintance with the business.  I earnestly & urgently requested his Lordship to [please] us with his attendance & to take the Chair of the General Assembly tomorrow, saying that I should consider it as a personal obligation, as indeed I should, being aware of the importance of the business that would be under consideration, & of that I continue that at, be given by his Lordship's House.  .He said that as his House was for the Company he would not promise, but he would come if he could.

Tuesday 2^nd December 1828

Lord Harrowby came & took the Chair, but the General Assembly not being able to get through the whole of the business, it was necessarily    adjourned to tomorrow.  A . . . which I do not recollect ever to have received before.  In the evening revised the Resolution which had been sent to for the purpose of being sent to the Proprietors, & wrote a Letter to Lord Harrowby to be taken to his Lordship tomorrow morning by Mr. Landon, with a Copy of the Resolution.  Engaged on this business till 11 o'clock at night.

Wednesday 3^rd December 1828

Adjourned General Assembly.  In the Chair.  Got through the minutes of the business.  Received back the Resolution from Lord Harrowby, signed by His Lordship, after adopting a small alteration which I had suggested.  After the General Assembly broke up, engaged on the Select Committee.  Left Stone about 2 o'clock, & arrived at home to dinner, but sadly jaded & fatigued, having been almost exhaustingly engaged on Navigation business, both in body & mind, for the last nine days.  On my arrival at home found long Letter from Mr. Harding, clerk to the Trustees of the Burslem Turnpike Road, relative to the exemption of Stone used for the Road working exempt from Tonnage & requesting my attention thereto.  Stamford at Linley Wood in my absence.

Thursday 4^th December 1828

Revised Minutes, but unwell.  Mr. Booth & Mr. Watson came, & agreed to the Letter . . . the White Lion Public House at £100 a year.

Friday 5^th December 1828

At home.  Engaged closely from 9 till near 3 o'clock revising & copying for Entry in the Book, the Minutes of the Proceedings of the Committee, General Assembly, & Select Committee, proposing & making a point.  Copy of the Resolution ordered to be sent to the Proprietors, for the Printer etc. etc.  Received two Letters by the Post from Mr. Wedgwood relative to his intended conference with Mr. Telford, & requesting me to direct James Potter to meet him at the Reservoir on Monday next, & to bring the Plan & instructions which he had received from Mr. Telford along with him.  Wrote & sent a Note to J.P. desiring him to call upon me tomorrow Morning.  Received Letter from Mr. Landon relative to Stockport intended Railway.

Saturday 6^th December 1828

James potter came & with whom engaged a considerable time & gave him instructions to meet Mr. W. & take the Plan etc. as requested.  Afterwards wrote to Mr. Wedgwood.  Wrote, & sent him

Page 103.  1828  December

a Copy of the Resolution of the General Assembly.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan & requested him to meet me at Newcastle on Monday next to confer on several matters requiring immediate attention.

Sunday 7th December 1828

In the morning at Talk Chapel.  Received last night a Scarf etc. in memory of my late friend John Pilkington of Bolton.

Monday 8^th December 1828

Went to Newcastle to meet Mr. Vaughan, to whom I delivered copies of the Minutes of the Committee & General Assembly, gave him instructions to wait upon Lord Harrowby & obtain his Signature of the Books, & arranged various other matters with Mr. V.  Delivered to Mr. Hyde the Copy of the Resolution & settled with him the [Type] Paper etc.  He promised to send me a proof sheet on Wednesday morning.  Returned to dinner.  Mr. Holland of Knutsford dined.

Tuesday 9^th December 1828

Breakfasted early with Mr. Holland who went soon afterwards.  Wrote to Mr. Harding of Burslem in reply to his Letter relative to Burslem Road Materials & on which subject I had spoken to Mr. Vaughan yesterday, amongst others.  How much may not some late circumstances have fallen under my observations be considered, as a "frivolous and teasing warfare of petty details, in which little minds exalt, because it is over them, and these alone, that such minds can attain even a temporary semblance of Mastery."  Looked over & selected various Navigation Papers relative to expenses on Journies to London etc. etc. etc.

Wednesday 10^th December 1828

 Wrote to Mr. Vaughan relative to the purchase of the Land & Building at Middlewich, ordered by the General Assembly, & suggesting his Meeting Mr. Holford the [convener] at Middlewich to agree for the same.  Mr. [Lamb] brought a proof Sheet of the Resolution, & which I consented.  Received paper from Chas. [Cowell] in Penlington Affairs.  Stamford came to dinner & staid all night.  Late in the Evening received a corrected Proof Sheet from Mr. Hyde.  A. Marsh received an Account of the Court having decided in his favour in the case of Mrs. Harding's Will.

Thursday 11^th December 1828

Carefully revised & corrected the Proof Sheet, making sundry alterations in the punctuation, Capital Letters etc. etc. & sent it by a Messenger, with a Letter to Mr. Hyde.  Stamford went.  Distressing Interview with Anne Marsh on account of Mr. Marsh's proposed Journey to Town, & which was afterwards relinquished.  Received Letter from Mr. Vaughan relative to the purchase at Middlewich & appointing his Son to come at 11 o'clock tomorrow morning with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Select Committee etc. for my signature & on other matters.  Anne having in the course of the Evening changed in her Sentiments & Feelings relative to Arthur's Journey to Town, he set off about 7 o'clock, the Carriage taking him to the Lawton  Arms.  Received another Proof from Mr. Hyde with my last corrections.

Friday 12^th December 1828

Finally perused & examined the Proof Sheet, which finding correct I sent by a Messenger to Mr. Hyde with a Letter to him.  Anne Marsh went out in the Carriage.  Mr. Wm. Vaughan came pursuant to Appointment with the Minutes of Proceedings, which after having carefully examined, I signed, in order that the Proceedings of the General Assembly might be taken to Lord Harrowby for his signature, & wrote to Mr. Vaughan thereon.  Received by the Post a very long Letter from Mr. Wedgwood in consequence of his conference with Mr. Telford.  Went immediately to James Potter's lodgings to have seen him, but he being out I left a Note desiring to see him on his return.  He came later in the Evening when I communicated to him such of Mr. Wedgwood's directions as were mentioned particularly as to the Cost, not being [found] upon the Pipes, & directing that this should not be done till further instructions considered.  Unwell from over hurry, anxiety & vexation.

Saturday 13^th December 1828

Being doubtful after James Potter left me last night, whether I had sufficiently conferred some of the Observations made to him, rose very early & sent a Note desiring to see him again at 8 o'clock.  He came soon after 8, when I repeated what I had before said.  He intimated that being aware there were certain Proprietors who were hostile to him, it was his intention to tender his Resignation as soon as the Reservoir was completed.  Still unwell, having had a miserably bad night.  Wrote to Mr. Wedgwood expressing my wish & opinion that Mr. Telford should immediately come down.  Before Sealing my Letter received another Letter from Mr. Wedgwood with a Packet containing observations etc. of Mr. Telford, but . . .the Rest of these in my Letter to Mr. W. & again urged Mr. Telford coming down.  Sent immediately a Note to James Potter desiring to see him in consequence of Mr. W. Letter, but he was gone from home.  Mr. Davenport came, & staid all night.  Mr. [Cole] and Kinnersley called.

Sunday 14^th December 1828

At home but very unwell.  Service.  In the Evening Mr. Holland came & staid all night.

Monday 15

Breakfasted early with Mr. Holland previous to his Return.  Engaged on papers & Letter s received from Mr. Wedgwood, & wrote Letter to Sir George Chetwynd.  Afterwards went to Sandbach, when engaged a long time with Mr. . . .

Page 105.  1828  December

in the Penlington Affairs, [Cowells] Debt etc.  Discharged my Bill for the purchase Deeds from Miss H. . . .& Miss Wolfe & [Hand].  Afterwards engaged again on the Reservoir Papers etc. preparatory to seeing James Potter again tomorrow Morning.  Left with Mr. Skerratt the will of the late Ralph Audley.

Tuesday 16^th December 1828

James Potter came to breakfast, with whom engaged a considerable time on the Observations & Instructions received from Mr. Wedgwood & Mr. Telford, & which I delivered to him for his guidance.  Afterwards engaged revising Papers etc. on this harassing business.  Received some pointed Copies of the Resolution of the General Assembly from Mr. Hyde.  Kept at the Desk all morning though unwell & very unfit for it.  Arthur Marsh arrived by the Mail.  Received a further Letter from Mr. Wedgwood, also from Mr. Vaughan, to whom I wrote in reply relative to my journey to Birmingham on Monday next.  Received from Mr. Salt a Barrel of . . .

Wednesday 17^th December 1828

Wrote to Mr. Salt.  Wrote also to Chas. Cowell on Penlington Affairs.  Received back from James Potter postponing his seeing me till tomorrow.  Called upon Mr. [Everard] Kinnersley at Clough Hall.  Selected & managed Letters etc. relative to the Reservoir.  Unwell.  Stamford dined and staid all night.

Thursday 18^th December 1828

James Potter came, but not having completed his observations on the paper delivered to him on Tuesday last, but he said that he would bring them on  Saturday.  Looked over sundry papers preparatory to going to Birmingham & making Minutes of [Business] for the Select Committee.  "Daily am I observing the truth of the three following beautiful. . . .and now fully known I am a better occasion experienced that of the [fruit] How truly constant charitable, and helpful Is woman unto woman in affairs I had truth affection and the peace of Spirit!  But Man to Man how crooked and unkind."

Friday 19^th December 1828

Engaged again on sundry papers.  Received from Mr. Wedgwood with further instructions for James Potter.  Letter also from Mr. Ward of Newcastle relative to the payment of the Stoney fields Mortgage money, & my joining in the Conveyance of Mr. [Stathams] Brewery property at Shrewsbury.

Page 106.  1828  December

Saturday 20^th December 1828

Wrote to Mr. Ward.  Engaged again on Papers preparatory to going to Birmingham.  James Potter who was to have dined, did not come till Evening when engaged with him upon the Papers received from Mr. Wedgwood, &  his observations thereon, which he said he would complete & bring to me tomorrow Evening.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

Sunday 21^st December 1828

Service.  Received Letters from Mr. Wedgwood & Mr. Telford.  Wrote to the latter requesting him to dine & sleep here on his proposed visit to Knypersley Reservoir on the 27.  James Potter came & brought me the papers received from Mr. Wedgwood with observations thereon.

Monday 22^nd December 1828

Set off on Journey to Birmingham to attend the Meeting of Delegates tomorrow.  Took Mr. Vaughan from Stone.  Arrived at Birmingham between 4 & 5 .  Mr. V. returned that evening.  Dined alone.  Mr. Wedgwood not arriving till about 8 o'clock.

Tuesday 23^rd December 1828

At Birmingham.  Meeting of Delegates at 12.  In the Chair, & a busy day.

Wednesday 24^th December 1828

Mr. Wedgwood & I returned home together.  Called at . . .,& saw Mr. Littleton, to whom I showed the Plans, & the dissent of the Landowners, when he said that with such a number of Dissents, he had never known Parliament pass a Bill, nor did he think they ever would.  Arrived at home about 8.  Mr. Wedgwood & I having taken a hasty dinner at Stone after which we parted.  Found Letter from Mr. Telford.

Thursday 25^th December 1828

Revised Papers.  Stamford dined, & staid all night.  Received Letter from Mr. Vaughan.

Friday 26^th December 1828

Wrote to Mr. Barker, & returned him the Plan of the intended Junction Canal.  Wrote also to Mr. Vaughan.  Engaged on Papers preparatory to meeting Mr. Telford tomorrow at Knypersley Reservoir.  James Potter came previous to his meeting Mr. T. this evening at Newcastle.

Page 107.  1828  December

Saturday 27^th December 1828

Went to Knypersley, where I met Mr. Mr. Telford & with whom & Mr. Wedgwood engaged inspecting the Reservoir.  Mr. Wedgwood & I signed a Paper containing a Statement of the various Defects inspected to the work, for Mr. Telford's consideration, & also requesting his opinion as to the indirect Causes of the [Fracture].  I read to Mr. Telford the part of the Memorandum which I had made on the 30 of June, expressing my concerns as to the Causes & which he said so perfectly coincided with his own, that he should be at a loss how to vary the works.  He repeated, that I was quite correct in the view that I had taken of the subject.  Called at Mr. Williamson.  Returned home to dinner.  Mr. Holland came in the evening.

Sunday 28^th December 1828

Over hurried in Mind & Body, & suffering much.  Service as usual.

Monday 29^th December 1828

At home.  Very unwell.  Mr. F. Twemlow called, & with whom conversation on Navigation subjects.  He mentioned his having received a Letter from Mr. [Vaughan] a day or two ago, stating that the Paddle was 13  feet below the top of the Dam at Knypersley Reservoir, and that the Paddle was a bad Paddle.  I told Mr. Twemlow that Mr. Wedgwood & I had met Mr. Telford there on Saturday last, that the Paddle was only about 5 feet below the surface of the dam, as nearly equal to the Top water Level, and that Mr. Telford had promised the Paddle to be as great a Paddle as could be made.  On his observing this it was understood & supposed of that Mr. Telford had not paid the attention to me which he ought to & that there was some misunderstanding between us, I told him that there was no foundation whatsoever for this.  That although Mr. Telford & myself were opposed to each other on sundry important matters, such as the Birmingham & Liverpool Junction Canal etc. yet this had not occasioned the smallest personal animosity, & that I hoped each of us had too much candour & good sense even to furnish this to be the case.  Engaged afterwards perusing papers & making Minutes with a view to preparing a case insufficient  of the intended Oxford Canal Bill.

Page 108.  1828  December

Tuesday 30

At home.  Engaged again on Navigation Papers.  Still unwell.

Wednesday 31^st December 1828

James Potter came this morning bringing a Letter from Mr. Telford, which he requested might be shown to me, containing his directions as to the matters requiring the most immediate attention at the Reservoir, & which I desired James Potter to forward with accordingly, but for the satisfaction of all Parties, I suggested that it might be proper that John Trubshaw should look at what was done, & which I desired James Potter to communicate to him accordingly.  Mr. Trubshaw too had been approved by Mr. Telford.  Mr. Holland came in the evening, & staid all night.  As a proof of the still mentioning mildness of the Season, the whole of the Farming Stock & Horses are now lying out, never having yet been tied up at night or taken into the Stables.  When I rode on horseback today in the Grounds under Prefect Hill, I found it so warm, that I went to the Summit in order to have the benefit of a cooler breeze.

Many thanks for the hours of transcribing put in by Ian Gwyneth Pearson who has helped make it possible to publish this information.  This is a very large project and there are lots of pages yet to be transcribed.  If you would like to volunteer to help with this project please contact JJ Heath-Caldwell jj@jjhc.info