Michael D.Heath-Caldwell M.Arch.

1831

Hannah Stamford of Linley Wood - 77/78

Elizabeth Caldwell (Bessy) of Nantwich -  64/65 

James Caldwell of Linley Wood - 71/72 

Elizabeth Caldwell (ne Stamford) of Linley Wood - 76 (Died April 1831)

Hannah Eliza Roscoe - age 45/46                                         - daughter of James and Elizabeth C.            

James Stamford Caldwell - age - 44/45                                - son of James and Elizabeth C.        

Arthur Cuthbert Marsh - age 44/45   (London) 

Anne Marsh-Caldwell – age 39/40    (London) 

Eliza Louisa Marsh-Caldwell – known as Louisa –  age 12/13

Frances Mary Crofton (ne Marsh) - age 11/12 

Georgina Amelia Marsh-Caldwell – Gies – age 10/11 

Rosamond Marsh-Caldwell – Posy - age 7/8 

Martin William James Marsh - age 5/6 

Mary Emma Marsh (Lady Mary  E. Heath) – age 4/5 

Hannah Adelaide Loring (ne Marsh) - age 2/3 

Diary of James Caldwell of Linley Wood Hall continues...

Page 79.  1831  January

Saturday 1^st January 1831

At home.  Wrote Letter to Mr. Bouverie in reply to the one received from him on the 30 December.  Wrote Letters to Mr. Ward & to Mr. Fred Tomlinson relative to the completion of the Stoney fields purchase.  Stamford came to dinner.

Sunday 2^nd January 1831

At home.  Service.  Received Letters from Mr. Simpson of Lichfield, Mr. F. Twemlow, & Mr. Landor & a Copy of one from Mr. . . .to Mr. Vaughan appointing Thursday next for a Meeting at Stafford of Delegates from the Staffordshire & Worcestershire & the Trent & Mersey Canal.  Stamford went home in the Evening.  Unwell all day.

Monday 3^rd January 1831

Bad night & very unwell.  Perused papers & wrote to Mr. Simpson & Mr. F. Twemlow.  Perused & Considered Dr. of Indemnity from the then Miss Bent of Sutton to the . . .of the late Mr. Bent, which also Mr. Bent of Macclesfield had sent requesting my opinion thereon.

Tuesday 4^th January 1831

Engaged on sundry papers.  Revd. John Lawton, Bagot, Hill, Mainwaring, Carter & Jos. Wedgwood dined.  Mr. Bagot, Hill & Wedgwood staid all night.

Wednesday 5^th January 1831

Engaged on Navigation Papers preparatory to going to Stafford tomorrow to meet a Delegation from the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal.

Thursday 6^th January 1831

Went to Stafford.  Arrived there at 12.  Met the Delegates.  Mr. Wedgwood & Mr. Landor also attended, when arrangements were made relative to the Surveys, & Estimates necessary to be obtained for opposing the Birmingham & Liverpool projected Railway, & also the opposition to Landowners.  Returned home late to dinner.

Friday 7^th January 1831

Wrote Letter to Mr. Wilson relative to Sale of Stock [under] Mr. George Skerratt's Will, which Mr. Skerratt approved & desired me to send.  Mr. Skerratt left us on his return home the Carriage taking him to Sandbach.  Received by Post from Mr. Landor relative to a Communication with Lord Anson on the subject of the Liverpool & Birmingham Railway.

Saturday 8^th January 1831

Wrote Letter to Lord Anson, but deeming it proper to know Mr. Wedgwood's sentiments.  Sent the Letter with the one received from Mr. Landor  to attend & which Mr. Wedgwood returned with his approbation.  Wrote Letter to Mr. Tomlinson on the Lawton Business, & with a Draft of a Letter which I proposed to write to Mr. Lawton for his perusal & consideration.  Wrote Letter to Mr. Landor informing him of what I had done with respect to Lord Anson.  Stamford came to dinner, & went home in the evening.

Sunday 9^th January 1831

Service.  Unwell, & suffering much throughout the day.

Monday 10^th January 1831

Still unwell.  Received by this Mornings Post Letter from Mr. Thomas Bent informing me of the dangerous State of his Brother William from a violent attack of inflammation of the Bowels.  Received Letter from Mr. Tomlinson appointing Thursday next for my seeing him at Mr. F. Tomlinson at Cliffe Ville in the Lawton business.

Tuesday 11^th January 1831

Made further observations relative to Reduction Clause previous to furnishing Mr. Landor with a Copy of the [bill] which he had particularly requested.  Looked over & selected Lawton papers preparatory to going to Cliffe Ville on Thursday next.  Viewed with Samuel Beardmore the part of Swallows Moor Wood adjoining the Cottages, intended to be drained & converted into the Meadow, & gave directions for commencing this improvement.

Wednesday 12^th January 1831

Wrote to Mr. Thomas Bent on occasion of the illness of his Brother.  Engaged again on Navigation & other papers.  Received Letter from Mr. Hollinshead informing me that he could not attend the General Assembly on Monday next.

Globe

Wednesday 12 January 1831

Society for the Discharge and Relief of Persons Imprisoned for Small Debts, throughout England and Wales, established 1772.

President - The Ear of Romney.

Vice Presidents. Lord De Dunstanville, Lord Kenyon, The Rt.Hon. Sir R. Peel, M.P., Sir Francis Burdett Bart. M.P., Charles Edward Pigon Esq.

At a Meeting of the Governors held in Craven Street on Wednesday the 5th of January 1831. The castst of Eighty-eight Petitioners were considered, of which 50 were approved, 12 rejected, 7 inadmissable,and 10 deferred for inquiry.

Since the Meeting held Dec.1 1830, One Hundred and Fifty eight Debtors, of whom 137 had wives and 348 children, have been discharged from the Prisons of England and Wales; the expense of whose liberation, including every charge connected with the Society, was £537 15s. 3½d. and the following - Benefactions Received since the last Report:-

Lieutenant-Col. Cook (A.) £1.1.0J. Stamford Caldwell Esq. (A.) £2.2.0- - - continues - - 

Diary of James Caldwell continues...

Thursday 13^th January 1831

Went to Cliffe Ville on the Lawton business when Mr. Tomlinson highly approved of the course which I proposed, namely my anxiety addressing a Letter which I had written, to each of the Mr. Lawton's & to be delivered by Mr. F. Tomlinson.  Saw Mr. F. Tomlinson in consequence of whose minute of the application to Landowners in the . . .of the proposed Birmingham & Liverpool Railway I afterwards called at Mr. Wilkinson's but he was set off to Wolverhampton.  Received Letter from Mr. Thomas Bent with news of the death of poor William who died in the night (about 2 o'clock) of Monday last.  He was a person of great merit & for whom I entertained a very sincere regard and esteem.

Page 81.  1831  January

Friday 14^th January 1831

Wrote to Mr. Thosmas Bent.  Looked over & arranged Navigation Papers & made Minutes preparatory to adjourned General Assembly on Monday next.  Re-perused & corrected proposed Letter to the Lawtons.  Inspected with Samuel Beardmore the work along in Swallow Moor Wood.

Saturday 15^th January 1831

At home.  Engaged on sundry Papers, Navigation Minutes etc.  Considered some recommendations of the Consolidation Bill suggested by Mr. Tomlinson, marked in the margin of his Print, & which he had left to me on Tuesday last.

Sunday 16^th January 1831

Mr. Foster of Liverpool called to arrange a Bankruptcy business, & staid so long as not to have time for Service.

Monday 17^th January 1831

Set off to Stone between 8 & 9.  Took Mr. Wilkinson from Newcastle the weather being very cold and foggy.  Engaged closely all day on adjourned General Assembly.  Received Letter from Lord Anson in reply to the one written & his Lordship on the 8 inst.  Miss Stamford had this morning fell upon the steps owing to the Ice.

Tuesday18th January 1831

Engaged all morning on the Select Committee.  Returned home to dinner.  Found Letter from Roland Bent, desiring me to find a day for examination of the Macclesfield Brewery Concerns.  Wrote to him, & sent my Letter by a special Messenger, who was to set off early tomorrow morning.

Wednesday 19^th January 1831

Mr. Robert Heath came with Application from Mr. Kinnersley to the Navigation Company for a small plot of Ground at Kid. . .which he wished to purchase.  Further consulted with Mr. Heath the proposed reduction of the Tonnage of Coals for the supply of the Salt also at Winsford etc.  Looked over Christmas Bills, & drew . . . upon Kinnersley's for the several amounts.  Remarkably fine mild day.  Received Letter from Mr. Bent appointing Saturday next for my going to Marsh field.

Thursday 20^th January 1831

Engaged on various matters.  Wrote Letters to the three Mr. Lawton's, but afterwards learnt that Mr. Chas. Lawton was not expected at Lawtons till next week, till which time I therefore delayed the delivery of them.  Received by Post Letter from Mr. Wilkinson informing me that the Meeting with the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Delegates would be held at Wolsley Bridge on Monday next.

Friday 21^st January 1831

Wrote to Mr. Wilkinson & to Mr. Vaughan.  I this day completed the 72 year of my age.  Looked out papers preparatory to going to Macclesfield tomorrow.

Page 82.  1831  January

Saturday 22^nd January 1831

Went to Macclesfield where I met Thomas & James Bent.  Surprized & shocked beyond measure at the Statement which they have made out of the affairs from which it appeared that there was an actual deficiency of nearly £4000, though from the annual Statement made out by William Bent, & signed by him, there appeared every year to have been Balance in favour of the Concern. 

It was finally arranged that the Business should be carried on till Midsummer and under the direction of James Bent, with the assistance of his Brothers: Mr. Thomas Bent expressing a strong opinion that from the present to Change which had taken place with respect to Breweries,& the general state of Trade it might be still made to answer & redeem the loss that had been sustained & particularly as Mr. . . .& himself could be the means of [receiving] the quantity of business done, & rendering those services, which he promised should be done. 

Under all circumstances the course proposed appeared to me to be the best, & indeed the only one, as it would be [desirous]to back up the Concern all at once.  Both T. & J. Bent expressed their extreme surprize & Concern as their Brothers conduct which is indeed incomprehensible.  This additional & unexpected loss and disappointment I cannot but feel heavily, particularly as my mind & Spirits have been for some time past greatly oppressed by other vexations & anxieties, which advancing old age under one less able to struggle against.

Sunday 23^rd  January 1831

Service.  Snow & mild Frost.

Monday 24^th January 1831

Set off early to Wolsley Bridge where engaged attending Meeting of the Delegates from Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal.  Mr. . . .on the part of the Birmingham Canal, Sir George Chetwynd, Mr. Wedgwood & self.  Mr. Landor & Mr. Wilkinson relative to Opposition to Birmingham & Liverpool Railway.

Took a Postchaise from Newcastle to Stone Mr. [Wilkinson] accompanying me, & from which place we proceeded, Mr. Wedgwood accompanying us.  Dined at Wolsley Bridge & returned home at night.  Arranged that the Line from Basford to . . . should stand on the same footing as the Line from Basford to Birmingham.

Tuesday 25^th January 1831

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Balgary on Derby Affairs.  Engaged on sundry Papers, but tired and unwell.  Received Letter from James Bent on Macclesfield Brewery & with [order] on the Banker to pay Drafts to him the Balance of their Account not to exceed £3000.

Wednesday 26^th January 1831

Examined Tradesmen's Accounts at Newcastle & sent John Davies with order on Kinnersley's Coal to discharge the same.  Considered Clause on the Bill & other papers relative to Mr. Williamson's Claim for Coals, preparatory to seeing Mr. Robert Heath.  Received Letter from John Trubshaw relative to Dam Feeder Works.  Offer from Mr. Booth of Tunstall of 54/- for the Chaise, which I declined.

Thursday 27^th January 1831

Wrote to Mr. Jas. Bent with order to Miss [Daintry] & Co to pay his Drafts on Account of he Macclesfield Brewery but not to exceed including their present . . . £3000.  Wrote to Wm. Faram desiring to see him.  Bessy left us, the Carriage taking her to Nantwich.  Snow.  Received note from Mr. Rob Heath appointing Saturday next for seeing me.

Friday 28^th January 1831

Wm. Faram came early , as I had requested by Letter, and with whom engaged a long time on Clauses in Consolidation Bill relative to the part of the Macclesfield Canal & the regulating Stop Locks, in consequence of a Letter received by Mr. Landor from Mr. Cririe, when I noted observations in writing for Mr. Faram's consideration & the result of which he promised to communicate to me tomorrow or the next day.  Received by Post Letter from Sir George Chetwynd & Mr. Simpson of Lichfield.

Saturday 29^th January 1831

Mr. Robert Heath came, & with whom engaged relative to the compensation desired by Mr. Rob Williamson for the Coals in Harecastle Tunnel, which Mr. H. considered as most extravagant & out of all Question, but expect to meet Mr. [Hanbury] with a view to ascertain with him, their fair actual value. 

Afterwards wrote to Sir George Chetwynd in reply to his Letter, & informing him of what had passed with Mr. Heath.  Wrote also to Mr. Simpson.  Samuel Boardman sold the Chaise to Mr. Booth, of Tunstall at 55/-  Received from James Bent a copy of the miserable Statement of the Macclesfield Brewery Concern, which it is quite shocking to look at or to think of.

Leamington Spa Courier

Saturday 29 January 1831

Arrivals -

Mr J. Stamford Caldwell at Bedford House. - -

Diary of James Caldwell continues...

Sunday 30^th January 1831

Service.  Mr. Wilkinson came in the afternoon to consult me relative to the proceedings in Cheshire for opposing the Railway from Runcorn to Basford, when after much conversation on the subject we agreed that Mr. Wedgwood should be requested to meet us at Runcorn there on Thursday next, to confer upon the subject & for which purpose Mr. Wilkinson desired to send to him.

Page 84.  1831  January

Monday 31^st January 1831

Engaged on papers previous to meeting Mr. Wedgwood tomorrow.  Also on private Accounts & affairs making out Statement etc.  Mr. Booth came relative to . . . for Rent due from Watson who had been sent to prison for Debt, & it appearing that nothing could be done for the benefit of his wife & Family, thinking various other creditors who would seem upon them understandably.  Mr. Booth thought there was no course left but to proceed with the distress.  Mr. Booth dined, & then went to Watson's House having taken an inventory this morning.  This matter has given me much vexation as Mrs. Watson always appeared to me to a very industrious, active person & who would have done much for her Friends had it not been for her foolish thoughtless Husband.

February

Tuesday 1^st February 1831

Went to Newcastle.  Met Mr. Wedgwood & with whom & Mr. Wilkinson engaged a long time at Mr. W office, considering & giving further deviations with a view to the most vigorous opposition to the Birmingham & Liverpool Railway, & particularly as to the Surveys & Appreciations to Landowners in Cheshire, & to the line from Liverpool to Chorlton.  In the night heavy Snow had fallen with high wind.

Wednesday 2^nd February 1831

At home.  Wrote to Wm. Faram inclosing Mr. Cririe's Letter relative to the regulating Stop Locks on the Macclesfield Canal & requesting his Report thereon.  Engaged completing observations relative to Consolidation Bill.  Received Letter from Mr. Wilkinson.

Letter to James Caldwell

from Mr Twemlow at Betley Court. 1831.

James Caldwell

Linley Wood

Betley Court

2^nd February 1831

My dear Sir,

I am extremely glad to hear that Mrs Caldwell is better, though I cannot help regretting the necessity which obliges you to leave home. When I sent my servant to Linley on Friday last, I really felt so unwilling to trouble you on the subject of business that I refrained from trying, but the note you are kind enough to write to me, now has induced me to call upon you tomorrow, with the hope of going after to fix a day for our travelling together which to me would have been much the most agreeable plan.

I am unfortunately so circumstanced with respect to some private business of my own, that my leaving home before the middle or end of the week is quite out of the question and I have calculated that about Thursday or Friday would have been the most convenient time for you as the case now stands I have only to regret that I cannot accompany you tomorrow, and to add that I hope to reach London by the Chester Mail on Friday or Saturday morning next, when I shall be glad to relieve you from as much labour as it may be in my power to do. I wrote to Sir George Chetwynd by last night’s post.

Believe me,

Very truly yours,

Frank Twemlow.

Diary of James Caldwell

Thursday 3^rd February 1831

William Faram came bringing his Report, & with whom engaged a considerable time relative to Mr. Williamson's Coal, on which business he had come to meet Mr. Hanbury.  Received Letter from Sir George Chetwynd.

Friday 4^th February 1831

Engaged on papers preparatory to seeing Mr. Hanbury, who came in the evening, and after much conversation promised to breakfast here tomorrow morning in order that we might more fully discuss and consider the Case of Mr. Williamson's Coals.

Saturday 5^th February 1831

Mr. Hanbury came to Breakfast & with whom afterwards engaged a long time on the subject of Mr. Williamson's Coals, when he understood to prepare & furnish Mr. Landor with a Report as to the probable time of their coming into working.  Value in present money etc. & to send me a Copy.  Afterwards engaged on other Navigation Papers.  Wrote to Mr. Landor, & sent him Mr. Faram's Report relative to regulating Stop Locks & Weirs on Macclesfield Reservoir. 

Letter from Mr. Wilkinson relative to proceedings for opposing the Liverpool & Chorlton Railway.

Sunday 6^th February 1831

James Bent came bringing a still more wretched account of the Macclesfield Brewery Affairs, & with the advice of his Brothers, that it be immediately given up.  After much conversation with him, I appointed to go to Macclesfield on Tuesday next to meet Mr. Thomas Bent.  Read Prayers but not well enough to go through the whole Service.  Stamford arrived in the Evening.

Monday 7^th February 1831

Miserable night, in consequence of anxiety & distress of my Mind being occasioned by this disastrous and most unasked for misfortune at Macclesfield.  Thaw.  Mr. Booth came relative to proceeding under the Distress against Watson, which, as he had failed to procure any Security for the Money, & the postponement of the Distress would only be a useless Sacrifice of the Rent due to me to other creditors & then appearing to be seem unfair advantage intended by Watson's intention to take the benefit of the Insolvency Debtors Act.  Mr. Booth thought it hard to proceed to a Sale.

Tuesday 8^th February 1831

Went tot Macclesfield.  Met Mr. Thomas Bent when we made the hard arrangement in favour for putting an end to their business, by which I expect to sustain a loss of not less than £2000.  Spoke to Mr. Parrot Solicitors of Macclesfield & engaged his proficient Assistance. 

Returned home at night & found Stamford, who on this miserable occasion has behaved in the handsomest manner, & carried the greatest fullest affection & attention.

Wednesday 9^th February 1831

Engaged on Navigation Papers making Minutes etc. preparatory to meeting Mr. Wedgwood at Newcastle tomorrow, but sadly fatigued in body & disposed in Spirits.  Stamford left us in the evening on his return to Leamington.

Thursday 10^th February 1831

Went to Newcastle.  Met Mr. Wedgwood at Mr. Wilkinson's office.  Engaged in Select Committee on various impartial matters.  Showed Mr. Wedgwood the observations which I had drawn up relative to the Reduction of Rates Clauses of which he expressed his great approbation & said he considered of a very valuable Paper. 

Returned to dinner.  In the evening Mrs. Watson came, but having no sufficient [Reasoning] to offer for the Rent, she seemed satisfied that a Sale should be made under Distress & at her request I wrote a Note to Mr. Booth that she understood to send requesting him to come over tomorrow morning.

Page 86.  1831  February

Friday 11^th February 1831

In the night my ever dear Eliza had an attack which on Mr. Davenport's arrival this morning he found to be Paralysis.  He applied the Cupping Glass with good effect, and in the evening found her better.  The state of mind and feeling in which I passed this miserable day is not to be described. 

When I sat down to my solitary meal, it seemed as if this world & all that attached me to it, are passing from under my feet, and that I was on the brink of that Despair which would overwhelm me.

Saturday 12^th February 1831

Eliza had a very good night, came down to breakfast, & appeared not as well as usual, but soon after the Numbness of the right hand which she has felt for some time past returned.  Mr. Vaughan came with whom engaged on Navigation business, though in a state of mind rendering me little fit for it. Owing to the constraint I was under he did not stay to dinner. 

Mr. Robert Heath came with whom a further conference relative to Mr. Williamson's Coals.  Mr. & Mrs. Henry Wedgwood also called to see Eliza, who in the evening appeared to be much better.  A . . . applied.  Mr. Davenport came in the morning & again at night.

Sunday 13^th February 1831

Eliza had a bad & restless night & appeared this morning to be worse but came down to Breakfast.  Mr. Davenport came to breakfast.  Passed another miserable day, almost wholly in the room with my beloved wife. 

Mr. Davenport came again between 4 & 5 o'clock, & recommended Leeches to be again applied, which was immediately done & apparently to the good effect as she was afterwards better.  In the course of the day I had written a Letter to Stamford requesting him to return home, but this Eliza would on no account allow to me to send, and I did not want to run the wish of the worry of his appearance against her wishes, nor would she hear of Dr. Northen being called in, declaring her entire confidence in Mr. Davenport & of whom Dr. Holland had spoken in the strongest terms in a Letter which she had received from him only a few days ago. 

Having an equally high opinion of him myself, and knowing that from his various considerations & consultation with Dr. Holland he was in perfect possession of the Doctors Sentiments as to the preferred mode of Treatment in case of any attack at the present I felt satisfied that the best course was to leave her entirely in Mr. Davenport's hands, or at least till he received an answer to the Letter whether he had written to Dr. Holland on Saturday last.  At [ten] Eliza was seized with a violent sickness and vomiting which alarmed me much, but proved beneficial as Mr. Davenport on seeing her in the evening pronounced her better.

Page 87.  1831  February

Monday 14^th February 1831

Eliza had a tolerable night.  Engaged on papers preparatory to going to Stone tomorrow in case I could leave Eliza, who notwithstanding from attack in the course of the day continued to improve.  Mr. Davenport saw her twice in the course of the day, as he had done since her attack & in the evening pronounced her going on well.

Tuesday 15^th February 1831

Sent Messenger with a Letter to Bessy requesting her to come to Linley Wood.  Mr. Davenport came to Breakfast, & from whose Report of Eliza I ascertained to go to Stone, where engaged on General Committee, but returned to a late dinner, leaving Stone the moment the business was concluded.  Had the delight to find Eliza going on well.

Wednesday 16^th February 1831

Eliza not quite so well.  Mr. Kinnersly & Mr. Heath came relative to the Mining Clauses in the Bill & lent Mr. K the Copy which I  had received from Mr. Landor with the Clauses [filled] up.  Wrote to Sir George Chetwynd & Mr. Vaughan.  Received Letter from Mr. Landor.  Depressed & sadly wearied in Mind & Body.

Thursday 17^th February 1831

Mr. Davenport on coming this morning again recommended Leeches which were applied accordingly.  Mrs. Jos. Wedgwood & Elizabeth called & saw Eliza.  They brought for my perusal a copy of a Letter which Mr. Wedgwood proposed writing to Mr. Landor, & to Mr. Vaughan.  Received by the Post Letters from Mr. Landor & Mr. Wilkinson.

Friday 18^th February 1831

Eliza continued better.  Much engaged on Navigation Papers preparatory to my expected Journey to Town.  Received Note from Mr. Wedgwood & appointed to meet him at Stone on Monday next.  Letter from Mr. Vaughan with Statement of reduced Tonnages & appointing to come here tomorrow morning as I had requested in order to a full consideration of this subject.

Saturday 19^th February 1831

Eliza still better.  Mr. Vaughan came & with whom engaged preparatory to my Journey.  Finished arranging & selecting Papers etc.  Received Letter from Sir George Chetwynd.

Sunday 20^th February 1831

Mr. Davenport came.  Said I might without fear leave Eliza.  In the evening went to Stone, but with a heavy and anxious heart.  From this time to Monday March 28.

Letter to James Caldwell

J. Caldwell Esq.

103 Pall Mall

London

My dear Sir,

I am most happy to inform you Mrs Caldwell is going on quite well.

Dear Sir,

Most respectfully,

J. Davenport.

Monday

21^st February 1831

Letter to James Caldwell, post mark 24 Feb, 1831.

James Caldwell Esq

103 Pall Mall

London

Tunstall, Tuesday 22^nd Feb 1831

My dear Sir,

Mrs Caldwell is still going on well.

Dear sir,

Yours respectfully

J[?]Davenport.

Part of letter from Eliza to James Caldwell at 103 Pall Mall, London. Postmark1831

Health too, though going[?] on very well and that the slightest return except a little in my hand I am very prudent and be determined to go downstairs this week I am gaining a little strength –ling upon sweetbreads and boiled eggs. We have not yet seen Stamford but are hourly expecting him, and Eliza sent me word her cough is better but she has determined to come here today.

Bessy love, every think of me as your tenderly affectionate and faithful wife,

E Caldwell

Letter to James Caldwell, postmark 26^th Feb 1831

J.Caldwell Esq

103 Pall Mall

London

Tuesday 24^th February 1831

Mrs Caldwell continuing going on well.

Davenport.

Letter to James Caldwell from Eliza Caldwell

[1831?]

To

James Caldwell Esq

103 Pall Mall

London

Linley Wood, 26^th February

Your letter,

my dearest friend was a cordial to my heart, and I thought you the best of men for writing so much but fear your wish to gratify and amuse me was attended with much trouble to yourself. I cannot allow you to sacrifice too much. You inspire most plentiful proof of your love for which I feel truly grateful.

I should have written a line on Thursday had not Mr Davenport thought it right to lay another blister on my back which put it out of any of my power, and yesterday I wished to tell you what a dreadful night I had passed and there was no post, the delay only gives me the opportunity of speaking of the good nights instead of me, my sleep seems to be returning to me and no complaints remaining except an occasional numbness in my hand and these gradually subsiding, and not the slightest unpleasant sensation in my head.

Tomorrow I propose trying the air of the breakfast room, but it is very cold this morning, so I shall be wonderfully prudent to feel greatly obliged to St.George for the interest he so kindly takes about me, and pray make my affectionate acknowledgments to Dr Holland for his unremitting kindness to me and Mary for her good letters and I am a poor sender at present and own and fear scarcely intelligible I will write to her when I can and A’s letter. My line also at Waterloo.

Bessy desires her best love to you. It goes to my heart to return so shabby a letter for your excellent one, but I can only affirm you dearest best of men that I am more than ever your tenderly affectionate and faithful wife,

Eliza Caldwell

Letter to James Caldwell – post mark 2 MR1831

from Eliza Caldwell. Scrawly handwriting for which she apologizes.

James Caldwell Esq

103 Pall Mall

London.

Linley Wood.

Feby 28.

It goes to my very heart my dearest friend to send you so[-bley?] a return for your kind long letters; which make me so happy, as I trust to your truth and love that I may rely upon your being in reality as well as you describe yourself to be.

For myself I go on improving though not with very great rapidity, the weather for the last two or three days having been very cold with a [pior] wind has made me very cautious in going down stairs, I know however my dear Caldwell that you will not blame me for a little unnecessary caution on that score of prudence, and I feel completely accountable to you as ever for my regards, more even than when you are present.

Should[?] Mr Davenport not write quite so often as you expect, one thing you may certainly rely upon, that no news was good news.

Stamford was prevented reaching us at the time he intended and we did not see him till Saturday, and he goes to the Sessions in the middle of the week. He and my faithful Bessy (who still kindly continues with me) send their kind love. Eliza came downstairs on Friday after a confinement of eleven weeks and hopes that she and my sister may be with us about the 8^th, should the Parliament be dissolved and you set at liberty it has occurred to me that you would perhaps bring Anne down with you, this I shall not mention to her as you alone can judge how far it may be possible. I could have written better had I had better materials. I hope however it will be sufficient to convey the tender, fondest affection of the most attached of wives is your E. Caldwell

Be so good as to send Davies to Beck and Allens seed shop and desire they will send me by the post a printed list of her flower seeds. The shop is in the Strand.

Letter to James Caldwell from Mr Davenport 1831

J.Caldwell Esq.

103 Pall Mall

London

My dear Sir,

There being no Post yesterday I did not write but Mrs Caldwell was doing well and today I believe she is much better than she has been during her indisposition, indeed she says “nothing is the matter with her and except a very slight sensation of the cramp, occasionally in the hand.”

Dear Sir,

Most respectfully you obedient Servant,

Davenport.

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 29^th February 1831

Eliza had an indifferent Night, and looked miserably ill when I went into her Room this morning.  Mr. Davenport came at 9.  Said she was no worse, and [encouraged] less.  As I was sitting at her bedside about seven she fell into a comfortable sleep continued an hour or an hour and a half.  I watched her all the time., & when she awoke she appeared to me to be changed for the better. 

She afterwards ate a little pudding with some appetite and seemed to improve through the day, though suffering considerably at times from pain. 

Mr. Davenport came at night, and to my comparable comfort pronounced her decidedly better.  In the course of the day, began a Report for the adjourned General Assembly of the late Proceedings of the Select Committee relative to the Consolidation Bill and the opposition to the B & B & L & C Railways, but my Mind and Spirits were in too harrassed & worried state to allow of my for going on with it.

Wednesday 30^th February 1831

Eliza a moderate night, but much pain this morning. Dr. Northen & Mr. Davenport came at 11.  Pronounced her upon the whole not worse.  Some change of Treatment agreed upon.  Mr. Davenport to write to Dr. Holland.  Mr. Wm. Roscoe & Elizabeth arrived.  Passed another miserable day on the sad attention of faint hope & deep despair.  Mr. Davenport came at night, & gave Eliza a sedative Draught.

Thursday 31^st February 1831

The Draught had the best effect, Eliza having had what she called a beautiful night.  But there was a Return of Pain this morning, though not so . . .or long continued as yesterday morning. 

Mr. Davenport came between 9 & 10.  Pronounced her better & was satisfied as to the propriety of Sedatives.  Having a little respite from the anxiety & distress of Mind which I had been enduring since my arrival at home, I resumed the Report which I had commenced, & made some progress on it but found great difficulty in commanding & confining my thoughts to the subject.  Mr. Wedgwood called.  Mr. Davenport came in the evening & gave me some [comparable] hope.

Draft letter, much editing.

Linley Wood,

2^nd March 1831

My dear Sir,

I saw Mr Charles Lawton yesterday who approves of Mr Rimmer and will if necessary ride down to Cranage; but as this will be rather inconvenient to him, it will perhaps answer the same thing if you mention it to Mr Armistead tomorrow, whom I think you said should you see him tomorrow and nothing will then remain to be done but to apply to Mr Rimmer to get him to make his survey as speedily as possible.

I have sent to Mr Jones who I dare say will attend you on Monday morning though I have not yet hear from him.

My dear Sir,

It being fully thought best that Terms should be obtained to sell for the purpose of paying off the Mortgages, it will be necessary to make out a [problem, settlement?] statement of the latter, and as this will not be done by you and Mr Tomlinson being together he has fixed Monday morning next for that purpose when he will be glad to see you at Cliffe-ville wishes you to bring all the necessary papers along with you.

As I am going to Wolsely Bridge on Monday and shall set off early will you favour me with your company at dinner here on Sunday at half past four o’clock and take a bed and I can then convey you as far as possible the following morning.

Letter to James Caldwell

from Mr Davenport.

James Caldwell Esq

103 Pall Mall

London

Tunstall. March 3. 1831

My dear Sir,

Mrs Caldwell has been so – an so will I have not considered it necessary to trouble you, daily, with a report. If I remember rightly you wished me to write you only so long as might seem requisite; I hope therefore my silence for the last few days has not been production of uneasiness. Indeed I have understood at Linley Wood that Mrs Caldwell has written to you lately.

With respect to my present report of her case, all that I can say is, she appears in all respects quite as well as she has been for the last 6 or 7 months.

Should anything seem contrary to Mrs Caldwell’s well being, be assured I will immediately inform you of it, but at all events, I will write in a few days.

Most humble?

Davenport.

Letter to James Caldwell

From Elizabeth Caldwell

1831

Letter to

James Caldwell

103 Pall Mall

London

Linley Wood

March 7^th [?] 1831

My dearest Caldwell,

One line in this letter, in which I answered a good report of my unworthy self. I went down stairs yesterday evening and also the evening before and enjoyed it very much. It was a great pleasure to find myself sitting once more on that sofa, and all looking so comfortable and feeling so [reasmor?], one cannot sufficiently appreciate all the charms of that room till one has been for some time deprived of it, but what an additional charm it will have when you are sitting by my side.

Mrs and Miss Tolland Miss [Caroline?] jun are here with me in my little dressing room on Monday and were extremely friendly. Mrs T told us that Sir – Arthur of Hanley was dead. We have [have?] heard no particulars whether he had been any time ill for Mr Davenport thought Mary had not wished the report.

A copy of a section of the new tunnel came on Monday from Mr Pritchard, with a note in which he says the Navigation mines are laid down and the [others ten them?] and that he owes you for some [Stands Shelb?] and send the letter or keep it till you return?

No papers came last night that was of less importance than it would now be. We shall feel a little uneasy for the arrival of tomorrow’s post.

Bessy and Stamford send dear love. The latter is setting out [frequent?] for the Sessions this morning. I shall rejoice to see again you which is a cheering to the heart of and my dearest Caldwell, most affectionate and faithful, E. Caldwell

No letter from Mr [Balging?]

Letter to James Caldwell from Eliza – very difficult to read in places.

James Caldwell Esq

103 Pall Mall

London

Linley Wood

10^th March 1831

As tomorrow will be a bank[?] day I am desirous of writing one line to my dearest friend by this post, though there is nothing to say except that I am gradually proceeding in my progress to recovering feeling as you said that I should be a Lady the rest of my life certainly of idleness and indeed almost a uselessness constitutes that character the epithet will be very appropriate to me.

Upon looking in my glass this morning I answered Margaret by saying I [wondered?] your master can like any thing so ugly as I now look; notwithstanding all this my spirits rise when I dwell upon your never failing affection and there seems a hope that we may go on a few more years happily together.

But enough about my unworthy self. I want now to tell you that my sister, Eliza and her infant came here yesterday, Eliza looking better than might have been expected after all she has suffered which was far and more than I was.

If she proposes remaining a fortnight she I hope we shall recount her much. She with my sister and Bessy beg their kind love.

They came with Stamford. I believe I forgot in my last letter, though I had a great injunction as to do. Stamford is not here just at this time. He goes to the Sessions on Friday.

I heard last night that the last [rune?] returned home suddenly on account of the illness of Legions, although I should imagine must have been a dangerous state. You mentioned that given down of your Jack my Emma may dearest regret it - - and feel almost and agitated to think of the hurry and fatigue.

You are undergoing and how [prudent?] this strong [confaight?] were ever and that you could [wax seal in way] return to your tenderly affectionate and faithful wife.
E. Caldwell

Be so good as to give the other half sheet to Davies.

Letter to James Caldwell

To

James Caldwell Esq.

103Pall Mall

London

Linley Wood

14^th March 1831

Thank you again and again my dearest Caldwell for your long and most welcome letter, would I could answer it with the like, but though it is now many days since I had a return of sensation[?] in my hand it is very over tired with the exertion of writing, and Mr Davenport is always recommending me doing them in this way and every other, particularly those parts of my frame as have most affected.

I was particularly well on Friday; but being not quite so tired on Saturday he advised a repetition of leeches, which seemed to have set all right again. I certainly feel gaining ground.

Bessy will return tomorrow should the day be per-=-l ; it will grieve me in not to part with her but she thinks it not right to leave Mr Skerrett any longer; all desire and love to you. I hope we shall improve Eliza’s health but she is not very strong. Her baby is one of the loveliest infants that I ever saw.

Pray give my love to Mr H with my sincerest thanks for the kind letters and things, I will answer as soon as I have the power of doing it. At present it is all I can do to scrawl a letter to you my dearest friend even in this upsetting[?] and useless way. I trust and assume it will give you the assurance and tried ever truly never be necessary as long as life remains to me, but I am ever and at all times your tenderly affectionate and faithful wife,

Eliza Caldwell

Forster, the [Clerk?] at Talke was on Saturday found dead in his garden, assumed to have fallen on returning from his work.

Letter to James Caldwell from Eliza Caldwell

To

James Caldwell Esq

103 Pall Mall

London

Linley Wood, 19^th March 1831

I have the vanity to believe, my dearest Caldwell, that you love to see my handwriting, if only for a few lines, particularly when it tells you as it may this morning, that I am tolerably well, at the same time feeling sensible that 76 does not rally so speedily or permanently as 36, but I have the fear of you before my eyes being careful of myself. For your dear sake hope we may be permitted to pass on in comfort together some time longer.

I fear that you will be terribly harassed with the great exertions you are called upon to make and that there is little probability of your release before the end of the month.

The pound note that came in the packet was a cordial to my heart in every respect; and all the contents of the packet were most satisfactory being precisely what I wished.

I of course, have not given the slightest hint to Anne of her returning with you knowing that you could best judge of the propriety of it, and thinking that Mr FT [Tollet?] might perhaps accompany you; in a letter I had from her on Tuesday she said my father was last year so kind as to propose bringing me down with him when I dared not venture; should he have the goodness to repeat the proposal I should now have no fear by accepting it.

Should there be any objection to this, for you must do nothing that can by possibility expose you to any restrain or uncomfortableness it has occurred to me that Anne might return with Mr Wedgwood and Elizabeth if they travel, as they generally do in the mail coach, and it might be well to mention this to her if you think proper.

I have asked Mrs Wedgwood and Elizabeth and Ann I – if she can come to dinner tomorrow as my sister and Eliza will be there to entertain them. I shall just take that portion of their company which will be perfectly proper for me and no more. Mrs Moreton brought Mrs Sneyd of Ashcombe yesterday morning to call and whom I was very glad to see, we not having met for years.

An invitation came for you to attend the funeral of Mr Lawton on Saturday. I replied that you were in London and not expected to return before that time, that I was sure you would regret not having it you power to show this respect to the memory of Mr Lawton.

We hope Eliza is gaining a little strength amongst us. Bessy went home yesterday. Stamford is not yet returned from Stafford where I am told there is much business.

And now my dearest best of husbands and of friends, farewell, and ever loved as you are beloved by your tenderly affectionate wife,

Eliza Caldwell

My sister and Eliza beg kind love to you

Leamington Spa Courier

Saturday 24 March 1832

Arrivals at Regent Hotel - -

Mr J. Stamford Caldwell

April

Friday 1^st April 1831

Eliza had a good night & was better this morning.  Mr. Davenport came about 10, and again in the evening when he made a favourable Report.  Engaged again on the Navigation Report, the compassion of which cost me much trouble. 

Received Letter from Mr. Fenton expressing the particular wish of the Mayor of Newcastle that I would attend the the Sessions on Tuesday next, some difference having arisen thereon relative to the removal of the Saturday Market & that if it should not be convenient to me to attend on Tuesday, they would adjourn the Sessions to any day that I would appoint. 

Eliza ate a little fish for dinner, but in the evening became rather more languid.  Mr. Davenport came in the evening & still gave me comfortable hopes but my anxiety and apprehensions were great.

Saturday 2^nd April 1831

(Elizabeth's Room)  Wrote today to Mr. Fenton expressing my intimation to attend the Magistrates on Tuesday at Newcastle.  Stamford returned in the Evening.

Sunday 3^rd April 1831

Eliza had a very good night & to my [impossible] delight appeared better this morning.  Dr. Northen & Mr. Davenport met at eleven & pronounced Eliza to be going on well, & as much so as could be expected.  They staid so long as to prevent our accustomed religious Service.  Mr. Davenport came again in the evening & to whom I delivered a Letter to him from Dr. Holland which had come in a . . .to me & sent he said to be shown to Dr. Northen tomorrow.

Monday 4^th April 1831

Eliza again a good night.  Mr. Davenport came at the usual time & made a favourable Report.  Finished the Draught of the Navigation Report.  James Potter called with whom much conversation relative to the Oxford Canal Improvements on which he was now engaged.  Mr. Davenport again in the evening.

Tuesday 5^th April 1831

Eliza going on pretty well.  Mr. Davenport came in the morning and again in the evening.  Attended Newcastle Sessions present by the request of the Magistrates.  Order of the Mayor . . .  Returned to dinner.  Mr. Davenport again at night.

Wednesday 6^th April 1831

Mr. Davenport & Dr. Northen met at eleven when the latter made a comparable Report & encouraged hope.  In the course of the day a change took place for the worse there being no action of the Bowels.  Mr. Davenport came in the evening when from the state in which he found Eliza recommended D. Northen being immediately sent for & he came about eleven. 

Found Eliza now worse, but she improved a little on an action of the Bowels taking place.  Dr. N. & Mr. Davenport staid all night.  Revd. Mr. D. Hill called and I am not sure whether it was today or yesterday.

Thursday 7^th April 1831

Eliza rather better having passed a tolerable night.  Called at Lawton Hall but Mr. Lawton was out .  Dr. Northen & Mr. Davenport met in the evening.  Said I might leave Eliza safely tomorrow.  Sent Navigation Report by a Messenger to Sir G. Chetwynd at Stone for his perusal & Minutes of Select & General Committee to Mr. Vaughan for noting in the Book.

Friday 8^th April 1831

Went to Stone, after seeing Eliza who had had a pretty good night.  Attended General Committee and General Assembly, but returned as soon as the business was over, not staying to Dinner.  Report approved by Sir George & Mr. Wedgwood & afterwards read & approved by General Committee & General Assembly.  Mr. Davenport in the Evening who pronounced Eliza something better.

Saturday 9^th April 1831

Eliza had a good night.  On going into her Room, as usual, the first thing in a Morning she was particularly cheerful and appeared to me that she was much better, repeating with energy the words "I am better.  I feel myself better."  Her . . . was then brought her, but which she returned from her stomach apparently could be the effect of wind. 

She however took her breakfast & appeared to be going on well.  She called me in her own sweet manner, her "good dear Man", this was her [figment] expression to me.  This was when I first saw her this morning came between eleven & twelve.  Thought her going on as well as he could say & no more could have been expected. 

Dr. N. said her pulse was perfectly good, beating regularly speedily 72.  Went up to her again.  Saw her again about 2, she was then going to sleep.  Being in good spirits about her, I rode on Horseback to Swallow Moor Wood & Flat Swallow Moor.  On returning by the Farm I was met by Samuel Jones who had come in great haste to fetch me. 

I galloped home, ran upstairs and found her speechless & almost lifeless.  She had been cheerful all day at first, but as (blank) was sitting with her she observed her head droop and on going to her found her dying. 

On my taking her hand I felt the pulse still faintly beating, but life was ebbing fast, and she expired almost immediately without a single sigh, or moan, & without the slightest convulsion or distortion of features & evidently without the slightest pain or suffering. 

Her two Daughters, Stamford & myself with her, with Margaret [Hales] & Bridgett.  The former supporting her head with her arm, & her Right hand locked in mine.  The last pulse trembled against my finger & then stopped forever. 

After I had took her hand the pulse for a few moments slowed.  This was between half past three and four o'clock in the afternoon.  I can write no more!  All earthly happiness seemed closed with me for ever!

Sunday 10^th April 1831

The first sad day of Loneliness!  The World seems a Desert to me!  Twice visited which was so lately my (blank)

Monday 11^th April 1831

Forced myself to give various directions for the approaching (blank) finally agreed for Monday 18.  What a day of wretchedness!  Again twice visited her dear Remains.

Tuesday 12^th April 1831

Another day of, if possible, still deeper misery.  Again twice saw her.

Wednesday 13^th April 1831

Heavier & heavier my affliction, as Reflection returns.  Forced myself to write to Dr. Holland whose [ultimate] kindness, and attention to my beloved Eliza I could not suffer to [remain] longer [unethical].  But what a duty to perform!  What is to become of me?  Desolation & Despair now await me.

Thursday 14^th April 1831

After disturbed sleep, rose early - walked in the open air - traversed the Terrace which I had last walked with her.  Recollections & feelings almost beyond endurance.  

Visited again with Eliza her dear Remains.  Afterwards in the presence of my three kneeling and praying Children placed upon my lost Eliza's fingers one of the two plain Gold Rings which I had given to her on her Marriage & which Eliza had found in her Mother's favourite Drawer, it having occurred to me that there was some in her possession. 

This I substituted for the Ring which she had worn through life, & which had been taken off & delivered to me since her death.  Thus again reunited, I felt a Relief of which those only can judge who have loved and been beloved Eliza one. 

She looked beautiful almost as in life.  The same sweet smile, the same beautiful expression, so far above all other beauty with which her Countenance had ever been perfectly distinguished, & which diffused Comfort and Cheerfulness amongst all around her.  After kissing her as I had done every time I saw her a thousand times, we withdrew. 

All this was between 10 & 11 o'clock.  Mr. Davenport came soon afterwards, & after seeing her told me that it was his duty to say that I must see her no more.  Change had taken place, & he could not consent to my going to her again.  I could not however be withheld but insisted upon one more parting look. 

He accompanied me upstairs, where in a spite of my Remonstrance I passionately kissed her cold lips & cheek again and again took a last look and parted with her for ever!  Oh! who can bear that word and thought for ever!  This passed about eleven o'clock or soon afterwards.

Friday 15^th April 1831

 ____________Arthur Marsh arrived, & afterwards William Roscoe.

Saturday 16^th  April 1831

Mr. . . .came again & with whom made the final arrangements for Monday next.  He mentioned that Mr. R. Wilbraham junr. had called upon him & expressed his intention to attend on the occasion, as a mark of his respect.  Received a kind and sympathizing Letter from my old friend Peake.  Mr. Skerratt came to dinner, and there has passed the first week of my new lonely pilgrimage.

Sunday 17^th April 1831

Stamford read prayers.

Monday 18^th April 1831.

About a quarter after 12 o'clock the sad procession [moved] & attended the remains of my beloved wife to her last resting place.  They were deposited in the Vault in the Chancel in Audley Church at 3 o'clock or something before the coffin being placed next to that of poor Louisa. (Catherine Louisa Caldwell -their daughter - 1794-1814)

The Service was performed by the Curate the Revd. Garratt, the Revd. Mr. H. . . attending.  The following was the order of the Pall Bearers.

(foot)

Josiah Wedgwood Jnr. Esq.

Thomas Kinnersly Esq.

Frederick Twemlow Esq.

George Tollet Esq.

(head) (drawing of the coffin, inscribed upside down)

(head)

Elizabeth wife of James Caldwell Esquire of Linley Wood.

Died April 9 1831 Aged 76.

(foot) (foot)

Reverend Thomas Butt

Reverend John Lawton

Richard E Heatcote Esq.

Randle Wilbraham Esq.

(head)

Myself & Stamford

Arthur Marsh & William Roscoe

Dr. Crompton, Mr Skerratt & Mr Holland of Knutsford

Randall Wilbraham Jnr. Esq.

Mourning Coach

in carriage

Page 93.  1831  April

Monday 18^th  April 1831

 I understood afterwards that everything was conducted in the most correct and orderly manner, nor did a single circumstance occur to disturb the solemnity of.

Tuesday 19^th April 1831

I slept [hard].  Rose early, & walked into the air.  Waking almost as from a Dream, & feeling intensely the dreary void which now surrounds me!  Everything seems changed and to have lost the power to interest me. 

William Roscoe, Eliza & Dr. Crompton left us after breakfast, the Carriage taking them all to Knutsford.  Arthur Marsh afterwards left us on his return home, leaving Anne & Louisa here.  Wrote to Sir George Chetwynd at No. 8 Palace Yard.  Received Letter from Dr. Holland.  The Wilbrahams sent to enquire after us, the Servant delivering cards all the morning, "Mrs. Wilbraham, the Miss Wilbrahams" on one "Mr. Wilbraham" on the other.

Wednesday 20^th April 1831

After breakfast Mr. Skerratt returned  to Nantwich, the Carriage taking him.  My Feelings today seemed to be exhausted or to have became insurmountable.  A strong kind of stupor or regard lifeless of the past or the present, & the future having come upon me.

Thursday 21^st April 1831

In nearly the same state, but in some measure by occasional bursts of Tears.  Received Letter from Mr. Wedgwood, but without a single word of sympathy or even allusion to regret which has taken place.  He certainly may be placed at the head of that School of Apathy & Philosophy which he so much affects, & whose side it seems to be stifle on the kindly feelings of the Heart.

Friday 22^nd April 1831

The same as yesterday.  Received a beautiful Letter full of tenderness, affection, & good sense from my dear Eliza Roscoe.  Received also a  Letter fro Sir George Chetwynd with a kind condolence, & another nice Letter from Mr. Wedgwood.  Letter also from Mr. Landor with a very kind reference to the late afflicting event.

Page 94.  1831 April

Sunday 24rd April 1831

Read prayers myself, but without a sermon, not being able to go through the whole.  Attended with the whole of the Family Service at Talk Chapel. When we were in the Chapel word was brought from Mr. Garratt that the service would not begin till 3 o'clock, instead of 2 o'clock the hour that had been . . & given publicly out the preceding Sunday.  Went  to Mrs. [Bendmans] where we all waited Mr. Garratts arrival.

Monday 25th April 1831

Wrote to Sir G. Chetwynd, Mr. Wedgwood, Mr. Landor, . . .& Mr. Lancaster, Mr. Scott . . .Newcastle & to Mr. Vaughan inclosing a Letter from Mr. [Chippendall] and a Memorial numerously signed from Manchester relative to the time of the Stoppage of the Canals.  Mrs. Wedgwood, Miss Wedgwood of Parkfields & Miss Charlotte Wedgwood called.  Gave the Letter which I had written to Mr. Wedgwood to Mrs. W. who delivered on her arrival at home, which was expected tomorrow.

Tuesday 26th April 1831

Wrote to my friend Peake, in reply to the Letter received from him on occasion of my having affliction, & my sense of which now begins to sink deeper & deeper, as I every hour feel more and more the want of that tender and . . .intercourse which has so long formed the great charm of my existence, and given to it all its interest & enjoyment!!!  Received Letter from Mr. Blunt.  Also from Mr. Vaughan relative to this proposed stoppage of the Canal.  But How weary, stale flat and . . ..  Seem to me all the sense of this world!  One of the young Mr. Wilbrahams called today & left his Fathers Card, I not being in the way.

Wednesday 27^th April 1831

Tried to write to Mr. Blunt , but gave it up.  Mr. [Hickin] of Audley sent back the Money(5Gs) which had been demanded & received without my knowledge from Samuel Beardmore for the opening of the Vault in the Chancel of Audley Church, but to which Mr. H. had found on reference to Mr. [Mott] of Lichfield that there was in this case no claim whatever.  I informed Mr. H. that I did not believe the Tenant to have required it or to have been approved by him.  Another sad & heavy day!

Thursday 28^th April 1831

Walked & wandered about but unable to settle to anything!  Mrs. Tollet called.  Sent Mrs. Duttons Will, which Mr. Skerratt had left for my consideration on his behalf, to Mr. T with my opinion thereon.

Friday 29^th April 1831

Mr. Vaughan came & with whom engaged some time.  But business soon tires & wearies me.  Everything is become flat & uninteresting!  All seems changed & to have lost the power to excite or occupy me.  How long will this half existence, for so I may truly turn it endure?

Saturday 30^th April 1831

Wrote to Revd. J. Blunt.  Beautiful Spring day.  Walked with Ann & Bessy into Walkers Ground, having first looked at Masons [Whitnings] . . .which are very fine.  The prospect from the high ground was very striking, but it imparted no delight to me.

Page 95.  1831  May

Sunday 1^st May 1831

Nothing could equate the beauty of this May Morning.  It was I thought the finest I had ever known.  But alas! it is not so to me!  I thought only how it would have been admired and felt by another!  The fine nature of the Earth, the early song of the Birds, Larks, and flowers all bursting into life & beauty - and this !!!!  Read Prayers.  Arthur Marsh arrived to dinner & Stamford in the evening.  Turned the Milking Cows out, the fineness of the Season promising abundance of Grass!  Those farming objects, to which I endeavour to turn my attention seem more than any thing close to soothe & tranquillize my mind.

Monday 2^nd May 1831

Rose again early & walked about.  In the forenoon Mr. Shaw accompanied by James Massey called.  The former acknowledged that the turning of their Mine water from the Colliery which he had again opened, into my drains & Ponds was wrong & promised that it should be immediately discontinued. 

I gave him Notice that I should otherwise undoubtedly bring an [action] against him, & if necessary apply for an injunction to the Court of Chancery.  But the same time said that if he had any Plan, or could devise any Plan for discharging the water so as not to be injurious to my property, I would certainly consider it, & should be glad so far to render him accommodation. 

In the afternoon Mr. & Mrs. Lawton called.  In the evening  unwell, having had a harassing, in the course of which I had suffered much.  My Temper seems to have become more irritable instead of being softened by what I endure.  Noise particularly disturbs, and renders me impatient.  I must try to correct all this!  The Carriage took Bessy to Nantwich, on account of Mr. Skerratt being ill with a slight paralitic attack.

Tuesday 3^rd May 1831

Stamford set off to Cambridge in consequence of a Letter from Lord Gower requesting his vote in favour of Mr. Cavendish, & which he determined to do, having voted for Mr. C on a former occasion, & being also desirous to show his support to Lord G. & the Family.  Mrs. F. Twemlow & Miss Fletcher called, also Mrs. & Miss Wilbraham.

Wednesday 4^th May 1831

Busied myself in settling Cash Book, & various accounts.  Slight attack of Gout & unwell.  Occasionally great depression of Spirits.

Thursday 5^th May 1831

The same.  Rain & Hail.  Early Potatoes.

Friday 6^th May 1831

Unwell.  Great sinking of the heart, & dejection of Spirits.  I seem to be but just now becoming sensible of the extent of my heavy Affliction.  It is indeed severe, and grievous to hear!  Cards of Thanks for enquiries sent to Clough Hall, Lawton Hall, Rode Hall, Betley Hall, Betley Court & the Revd. J. Lawton.

Page 96.  1831  May

Saturday 7^th May 1831

This morning Arthur & Anne Marsh & Louisa left us on their return home, after a most affectionate parting & assurance on their part of every comfort & [alleviation] in their power to administer.  Low & ill myself.  Some return of Gout.  Stamford arrived to breakfast on his return from Cambridge where in consequence of a Letter from Lord Gower, he had attended the Election.  I voted in favour of Mr. Cavendish.  He also voted in favour of Lord Palmerston.  Cards sent to Longton Hall, The Butts at Trentham, Dr. Northen & Mrs. Moreton.  Stamford went to Lane End on a Banking Meeting & returned to dinner.

Sunday 8^th May 1831

A day of almost the worst suffering since my grievous Calamity.  Life seems to have lost all interest, & to have become a heavy marathon!  May he who has inflicted , enable me to support the Stroke! Read Prayers! Wandered about & from Room to Room, but all sad, & desolate & silent!!!

Monday 9^th May 1831

Rode on Horseback & walked much in the open air.  Indeed I felt it difficult to sit still, finding a sort of relief in moving about.  With a view to change of object, purchased Stamford's Gig & horse.  Received Note from Mr. R. Wilbraham jnr. Urgently requesting my vote & [support] for the county of Chester in favour of Lord Henry Cholmondeley.  Stamford went to Lane End & returned to dinner.

Tuesday 10^th May 1831

The same as yesterday.  Received Letters from Mr. Landor & Mr. Vaughan relative to the postponement of the General Assembly appointed to be held on Monday next under the new Act.  Wrote to Mr. Randle Wilbraham declining my entering for the present into any promise or engagement supporting Lord Henry Cholmondeley.

Wednesday 11^th May 1831

Wrote to Mr. Wedgwood & sent him by a special Messenger the Letters received from Mr. Landor & Mr. Vaughan & offering to meet him at Newcastle either tomorrow or on Friday to confer on the Navigation Business, though I had not yet gone anywhere from home.  Looked over the new Act of Parliament & made Minutes of what was necessary to be immediately done in pursuance of it.  Mr. & Mrs. Kinnersly called.  Mr. K. showed me a number of Letters from Mr. Melbourne, [Lord] Talbot Littleton etc. relative to the present . . .indication amongst the Collieries, & the political Union which they had entered into, [deprecating] in the strongest terms these proceedings & promising serious attention thereto.  I was amused at finding Littleton joining in the condemnation of the [Bear] Bill, remembering strongly how at his Election last year, he advocated this Bill in reply to Observations made by Capt. Chetwynd.

Thursday 12^th May 1831

Stamford set off to London.  Mr. & Mrs. Jos. Wedgwood called.  The former in consequence of my Letter to him.  Conferred on the course proper to be pursued under the new Act, & determined to meet at Stone on Monday Morning next that being the day appointed for holding the past General Assembly, but of which no Notice had been given.  Whilst Mr. W. was here received a Letter from Mr. Simpson of Lichfield expressing a wish to see & confer with me on the subject of Rail Roads.  Afterwards wrote to him requesting his Meeting me at Stone on Monday.  Wrote also to Mr. Vaughan assuring him of . . .Meeting on that day.

Friday 13^th May 1831

Unwell.  Mr. F. Twemlow called.  Wrote to Mr. Landor informing him of the Meeting at Stone on Monday.  Wrote to Mr. Wilkinson not to send out our [Promise] the same not being necessary from the provision contained in the new Act.  Passed a melancholy & comfort less Evening.  More & more [sensible] of my sad privation!  They that behold one little dream, How wide my Spirit soars from them, My constant thought for ever telling - of Her.

Saturday 14^th May 1831

Went to Sandbach to have spoken to Mr. Jas. Skerratt relative to Mr. Wilbrahams Claim to the small inclosure on Rode Heath, reserved though his Solicitor Mr. [Low], but Mr. Skerratt being from home, left Mr. [Low's] Letter & my observations thereon with Mr. S. Clerk.  Eliza Roscoe with Mary & the Infant arrived in the evening, the Carriage having met them at Knutsford.  Looked over & arranged Navigation Papers preparatory to going to Stone on Monday next.

Sunday 15^th May 1831

Read Prayers.

Monday 16^th May 1831

Went early to Stone, where engaged all day on Select Committee with Mr. Wedgwood, & returned home in the evening.  Mr. Edw. Simpson also attended.

Tuesday 17^th May 1831

Wrote to Sir George Chetwynd with the Account of yesterdays proceedings, & also to Mr. Vaughan.  Afterwards went to Sandbach.  Saw Mr. Skerratt & with whom conferred & settled the Answer to be given by him to Mr. [Low's] Letter, relative to the Inclosure on Rode Heath.  Drove for the first time the Horse lately purchased from Stamford in the Gig, which went steadily & safe.

Wednesday 18^th May 1831

Suffering much and a deeper Dejection seems growing upon me, all appears involved in one dark uninteresting gloom.  They are indeed sad and heavy hours!!!  Received Letters from Stamford & from James Bent.  Returned the Pattern Rings sent by the Jeweller.  Received Letter from Mr. A. Wilson with a copy of Mr. Bells opinion on late Mrs. Simms Will.

Thursday 19^th May 1831

Much the same.  Miss Stamford & E. Roscoe went to Maer, & returned to dinner.  Received Letter from Mr. Skerratt inclosing one from Mr. . Field late Mrs. Simms business, Farms etc.

Page 98.  1831  May

Friday 20^th May 1831

Perused & considered Letters etc. relative to late Mrs. Simms papers.  Concern previous to writing to Mr. Wilson.  Mr. Tollet called.  Turned the Grey & two Carriage Horses out to Grass.  In the evening sadly wearied & am comfortless.

Saturday 21^st May 1831

Wrote to Mr. Wilson, but listless and almost incapable of attending to anything.  Turned out the bay horse purchased from Stamford.  A wearisome and heavy day.

Sunday 22^nd May 1831

Read prayers.

Monday 23^rd May 1831

Very unwell & suffering greatly from Dejection, so as to be unfit for anything.  Wandered about & tried to read, write etc. but all in vain!

Tuesday 24^th May 1831

The same, passed a miserable day.  In the Evening Mr. J. Sneyd of Bradwall called with a copy of a Declaration signed by a great number of Noblemen & Gentlemen of the County of Stafford expressing their Dissent from the dissolution of the Meeting held at Stafford,on the 23 March relative to the Reform Bill.  Though approving of a Declaration of this kind, as enabling Parliament to judge of the real Sentiments of the Country, when left to to speak for themselves.  Yet not having seen the Resolutions I declined signing the Declaration till I had read & considered them.  Received Letter from Sir Thos. Cotton  [Shepherd] requesting my & vote & [entered] in his favour in case of another Dissolution of Parliament.  Also Letter from Mr. Wedgwood & Ann Marsh.  The former on Navigation business.

Wednesday 25^th May 1831

Still suffering much.  This [place] is now most beautiful.  The hue on the most [exquisite] foliage, the fields in the freshest . . ., the Birds supplying a continual concert, & all nature appearing in . . .mood.  But to me how that flat & uninspired!! Mrs. Jos. Wedgwood, Elizabeth & Charlotte came to dinner but returned in the Evening.

Thursday 26^th May 1831

Went early to Stone when engaged all Morning with Mr. Wedgwood on Select Committee, but returned to dinner.  The Military which had arrived at Newcastle 2 troops 10 Hussars & Yeomanry Corps in motion, & the Magistrates Followed & F. Twemlow in attendance it being intended to take into Custody some of the Ringleaders of the Collieries who have for some time past been in a tumultuous & disorderly state.

Friday 27^th May 1831

Went to Newcastle to speak to Mr. Wilkinson relative to the most convenient day for holding the proposed adjourned General Assembly & desired him to enquire from Mr. Hales, who he was to see relative to the Cockshead Engine, on which day Sir George Chetwynd was engaged to be at Cobridge.. Magistrates & Military in operation this morning, having taken into custody 12 or 13 of the Ringleaders of the disorderly collieries.  Mr, Randle Wilbraham called at Linley Wood but I was out.  Engaged on the improvement of the Farm Yard, which had been commenced a few days ago

Page 99.  1831  May

Saturday 28^th May 1831

Engaged on Navigation Papers preparatory to the General Assembly on Monday next.  Drawing Report of the Select Committee etc. etc.  Miss Stamford & E. Roscoe called at Betley Hall, the Horses taking them.  Mr. Lock, Mr. Stevensons Partner called upon E. Roscoe early, & before she went to Betley.  Received Letter from Miss Pilkington of Bolton.  Suffering from Rheumatic Attack in both arms, but now light is such pain when compared with what I otherwise endure!!

Letter

London, May twenty eight 1831

James Caldwell Esq

Linley Wood

Lawton

Cheshire

Milbourne.

The Marquis of Stafford desires the Honor of Mr Caldwell’s company at dinner on Friday

To Meet H.R.H. the Prince of Wales at 6 o’clock

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 29^th May 1831

Read prayers.

Monday 30^th May 1831

Went early to Stone, where engaged closely all day on the General Assembly, being in the Chair.

Tuesday 31^st May 1831

Engaged on Papers relating to the late James Caldwell of Manchester affairs & the Penlington Affairs.  Miss Wedgwood & the Revd. Mr. Mainwaring called, being unwell & suffering seriously.

June

Wednesday 1^st June 1831

Unwell & suffering severely as yesterday.  Life almost insupportable.

Thursday 2^nd June 1831

The same.  Wrote to Miss [Brundreth] & [Spinks] relative to payment of money to the Trustees under the Late Mrs. Simms Marriage Settlement received.  Sent Case relative to late James Calwells affairs to Solicitor Peake for his opinion.

Friday 3^rd June 1831

Still suffering severely.  Dejection seems coming fast upon me.  Received Letter from Mr. Tomlinson wit List of Dissents from the Resolution entered into at Stafford relative to the Reform Bill.  Finished the improvement of the Pond and Road in the Farm Yard.  E. Roscoe being unwell sent for Mr. Davenport in the Evening.

Saturday 4^th June 1831

A day of great suffering.  Begun repair & improvement of the small pond in the Farm Garden.  Wrote to Mr. Tomlinson, but declining to add my signature to the Paper which he had sent me.  NB.  Though disapproving greatly of the Reform Bill, yet I thought that my joining in this view of expression of my Sentiments might place me in a disagreeable and inconvenient situation in respect to various private friends & Parties who are friendly to it, & that giving my name to the paper might found some claim upon me to go further with the Parties in whom it originates, then I might approve.  Received Letter from Mr. James Trubshaw.

Sunday 5^th June 1831

Miserably ill.  Read Prayers.

Monday 6^th June 1831

Rather better night, but still severe suffering.  Wrote to Mr. James Trubshaw.  Tried to bury & interest myself on various matters, but in vain!

Page 100.  1831  June

Tuesday 7^th June 1831

Again almost insufferably ill.  Met Mr. Kirk & Wm. Faram & made experiment with the new Steam Boat Engine, in the presence of Mr. Kinnersly & Mr. Rob. Heath who attended, & were well satisfied with the Result, but the Pulley wanting some trifling alteration.  I appointed to view the experiment on Monday next.  My Sufferings on my return & through the evening were dreadful.  In my absence Miss Moreton & Miss [Anderton] called.  Letter from Mr. Jos. Wedgwood relative to possession of Cockshead Engine being given up.

Wednesday 8^th June 1831

Went to Newcastle & called upon Mr. Wilkinson relative to Cockshead Engine & directed him to be sure that the possession of the Engine should be given up, so as to feedback any possible question as to [holding] & which he promised to do.  On my return found Mr. Roscoe.  In the Evening Stamford called, having arrived at home last night.

Thursday 9^th June 1831

Severe suffering all day.  Stamford dined & returned home in the Evening.

Friday 10^th June 1831

The same this morning having passed a miserable night.

Saturday 11^th June 1831

If possible more than ever.  Wrote t Mr. Speir B. . .

Sunday 12^th June 1831

Another wretched day, but read Prayers.  Mr. Roscoe left us on his return home.

Monday 13^th June 1831

Attended, though in a state of wretched suffering, further Trial of the Canal Steam Boat, which proved highly satisfactory, and afforded great promise of the Invention ultimately answering the purpose intended.  Mr. Kirk, Wm. Faram also attended.

Tuesday 14^th June 1831

Suffering still the same, but went to Newcastle & called upon Mr. Wilkinson with whom I conferred on Navigation business particularly to Lord Shrewsbury & Cockshead Engine.  On my arrival at home found myself very ill.  Settled the Draft of a Will which I intend to execute.

Wednesday 15^th June 1831

Suffering still severe, but went to Sandbach, and executed at Mr. Skerratts Office a Will, which it having been drawn by myself was copied there.  On my return a violent storm of Rain, accompanied with I think lightning.  Being in the Gig I was completely wet.

Thursday 16^th June 1831

Ill.

Friday 17^th June 1831

Ill.  Having received from Mr. Vaughan by Post a Navigation Check for £1000, payable to him & signed by Mr. Wedgwood, & signed & returned the same to Mr. Vaughan by Post as suggested by him.  Wrote second Letter by a Messenger to Maer Hall proposing to meet Mr. W. at Newcastle on Monday next.

Saturday 18^th June 1831

Still suffering severely.

Sunday 19^th June 1831

The same, but read Prayers.  Received Letter from Mr. [Spier].

Monday 20^th June 1831

Though unfit for it, went to Newcastle.  Met Mr. Wedgwood at Mr. Wilkinson's Office, & where engaged all morning on Select Committee.  Mr. Vaughan also attended.

Page 101.  1831  June

Monday 20^th June 1831

Saw Mr. Ward who said that he paid all monies received upon the late Newcastle Brewery Account & from the estate & effects into the hands of Kinnersly to their Account.  Said how the Stoneyfields Title rested with Mr. Tomlinson.

Tuesday 21^st June 1831

Suffering still the same.  Considered the question to as to the payment to Wm. Caldwell's Daughter under the Will of the late James Caldwell of Manchester previous to writing again to Mr. [Spier], also the Perlington business previous to replying to a Letter received from Miss [Brundreth], & [Spinks], relative to the Debt due from the late George Audley to Mrs. Simms assigned to the Trustees under the Marriage Settlement.

Wednesday 22^nd June 1831

Suffering the same.  Bessy arrived from Nantwich.  John Faram, with results of the last experiments made with Canal Steam Boat, when I desired him to show the Calculations as to the expense of this mode of conveyance to Mr. Vaughan & for which purpose he proceeded to Stone.

Thursday 23^rd June 1831

The same.  In the evening went to Sandbach to have seen Mr. Skerratt on the Penlington Affairs & to enable me to reply to Miss [Brundreth] & [Spinks]: Letter but found that he was in London.  Observed that in one place on the Road, about halfway, they had cut & men carrying Hay.

Friday 24^th June 1831

The same.  Wrote to Mr. [Spier} [Birth].  In the evening Stamford called on his return from London.

Saturday 25^th June 1831

Passed a miserable day.  E. Roscoe prevented returning home by the coldness & wetness of the day.  Stamford dined, & returned in the evening, as he proposed going to Nantwich on Monday.  I desired him to mention to Mr. Skerratt my wish & request that he would make the appointment of myself as an Executor & Trustee under his Will.

Sunday 26^th June 1831

The same.  Read Prayers.

Monday 27^th June 1831

Though very unfit for it, went to Stone, & attended Meeting of Select Committee.  But in a state of extreme suffering all day.  Staid there to dinner, & returned in the evening.

Tuesday 28^th June 1831

A dreadful night & rose this Morning in a state of almost insupportable anguish of Mind, and dejection of Spirits.  How long can this be endured?  But God's will be done! & may he, of his infinite Mercy, enable me patiently to submit to his inflictions.  Stamford called in the evening on his return from Newcastle.

Page 102  1831  June

Wednesday 29^th June 1831

The same.  My most tenderly & justly beloved E. Roscoe left us this morning on her return home.  Her affectionate attention to me in this Season of Calamity & distress, have been unwearied, & have served more than anything she could have done, to sooth the bitter affliction which has fallen upon me.  Another anxiety is however added to my present load, from the state of her health, respecting which I could not but feel considerable apprehension.  I must hope however for the . . .of Hope & respecting which can ever again enter my heart.  At present all is misery and despair!

Thursday 30^th June 1831

Another wretched day!  Jos. Wedgwood Jnr. Called, & afterwards Dr. & Mrs. Northen.

July

Friday 1^st July 1831

The same state of suffering.  Mr. & Mrs. Hutton of Dublin and two Children with Henry Crompton came to dinner, on their way to London.

Saturday 2^nd July 1831

After breakfast the Party left us.  My suffering afterwards, increased if possible by the exertions that I had made to pay due attention to our Friends.  Stamford came to dinner on his return from Stafford, & to whom I showed my Will & a Statement of my Affairs, thinking this proper in the present state of my health, and uncertainty of my life.  The men this morning went on Mowing the Meadow which they had begun yesterday afternoon.

Sunday 3^rd July 1831

Still suffering the same.  Read Prayers.

Monday 4^th July 1831

Went to Stone early & where closely engaged all day on General Assembly being in the Chair.  Delivered to Mr. Vaughan the Plan of the Mines in Harecastle New Tunnel, sent a short time ago by Mr. [Portehand].  Returned at night.

Tuesday 5^th July 1831

Suffering severely all day.  Sent Messenger to Stone for the Proceedings of the General Assembly yesterday, being . . .of an Omission.  Men busy mowing.

Wednesday 6^th July 1831

Bad night.  Went to Newcastle, & met Sir George Chetwynd at Mr. Wilkinson's Office, pursuant to appointment, & where we received a very satisfactory Report from Mr. Wedgwood respecting the Liverpool & Chester & the Birmingham & Basford Railways & [affecting] the prospect of these Bills being withdrawn, at least for the present Session.  Appointed to meet Sir George at Wolsley Bridge on Monday the 18 inst. & to proceed from there on the usual Annual Survey of the Canals.  On my return from Newcastle wrote to Mr. Wedgwood.  Very busy in the Hay, the day being remarkably fine for the purpose.

Thursday 7^th July 1831

Still in the same state of suffering.  Very busy in the Hay.  Received letter from Mr. Wedgwood informing me of the Railway Bill being put an end to.  Wrote to E. Roscoe on occasion of the death of the late Mr. Roscoe, which happened on (blank) last & my receiving yesterday Scarf etc.

Friday 8^th July 1831

Ill all day.  Very busy in the Hay, & carried a considerable part of the Meadows.  Stamford came in the Evening.

Saturday 9^th July 1831

Went to Sandbach ,& had a long conference with Mr. James Skerrattt on the Penlington Affairs, & instructed him to write to Miss Brundreth & Spinks.  Left with him their last Letter to me & also the Copy of Mrs. Simms Marriage Settlement.  Wrote Letter to Mr. Balgary urging the indirect payment to Stamford's Bankers in London less costs of my share of the Balance if the Derby Rent remaining in Mr. Balgary hands.  Suffered severely all day.

Sunday 10^th July 1831

Ill. Read Prayers.  Stamford dined, & having determined to go to Derby, I gave him the Letter from James Bent proposing my meeting him & his Brother at Mansfield on Thursday next, in consequence of which Stamford arranged to attend also.  Great suffering through the whole of the day.

Monday 11^th July 1831

Ill

Tuesday 12^th July 1831

The same.  Rain with Thunder.  Letter from James Bent proposing the Meeting at Mansfield.  Mr. Vaughan came to breakfast & with whom engaged some time.

Wednesday 13^th July 1831

Another wretched day.  Wrote to Mr. Parrott of Maccclesfield informing him of the postponement of the Meeting.  Rain with much Thunder &  Lightning

Thursday 14^th July 1831

The same.

Friday 15^th July 1831

The same.

Saturday 16^th July 1831

The same.  Stamford dined.

Sunday 17^th July 1831

The same.  Read Prayers.

Monday 18^th July 1831

Set off on Navigation Survey, & arrived at Buxton, where we slept.

Tuesday 19^th July 1831

Proceeded to Shardlow, & returned at night to Buxton.

Wednesday 20^th July 1831

From Buxton returned home, when I arrived about 5 o'clock.  Found Letter from Daintry & [Ryle] regarding payment of their Balance of the late monies Macclesfield Brewery, & amounting to £2907.4s.2d.

Thursday 21^st July 1831

Passed a wretched night.  The comfort of what little remains to me of life entirely destroyed, & no prospect before me but of [incessant] however unavailing wretchedness, and yet I cannot properly blame myself; the carrying on of so small a concern, being apparently attended with little or no Risk, & as its underated success would have been very convenient.  The advance of solid Capital made by Mr. Bent, £2000, seemed to precede any loss by me further than my own share or proportion which was only one Third; & the flourishing state of Macclesfield at the time of the Concern being engaged on . . .as a stray & powerful . . . by affording the most reasonable prospect of success.

Friday 22^nd July 1831

The same.

Saturday 23^rd  July 1831

The same.  Arthur Marsh came on his return home from his extended voyage with Sir Hyde Parker, having landed in Scotland.  Afterwards Ledward the late [collector] at Macclesfield Brewery came.  His Report of the Debt collected etc. unsatisfactory & adding to my present great certainty & distress of mind.  After dinner I fully disclosed to Arthur Marsh my situation & loss as in respect to the Macclesfield when he consented to accompany me then to meet the Bents.  Received today a present of Fish a Salmon & a Lobster from Dr. Holland.

Sunday 24^th July 1831

Very ill from extreme dejection of Spirits.  Read Prayers.

Monday 25^th July 1831

The same, & if possible suffering more severely than ever.  Wrote to James Bent & to [Miss] T & R Bent fixing to meet at Macclesfield on Wednesday next.  Wrote also to Miss Bent desiring her in case any of her Brothers were there at the [Suthern] Brewery to inform them of it.  Wrote to Mr. F. Twemlow to appoint a day for Cockshead Engine Reference.  In consequence of a Letter received by the Post from (blank) Ledward and sent Samuel Jones fixing my going there tomorrow.

Tuesday 26^th July 1831

Went to Macclesfield accompanied by A. Marsh.  Met Thomas & James Bent.  Things worse & worse.  Heavy Accounts to the amount of £1100 requiring immediate payment, besides the Balance of £1400 still remaining due to the Banker, & of which they wished the immediate.  Saw Mr. Parrott with whom made the best arrangement I could, for getting in the Debts as collected.  Returned to dinner but in a state of great wretchedness.

Wednesday 27^th July 1831

A miserable bad night not having had any sleep.  Sent to Kinnersleys for Draft to be remitted to the various Maltsers & Hop Merchants whose Accounts received . . .& are now called for & amounting in the whole £1044.4s.3d.  Wrote Letters afterwards to the several Parties inclosing such Drafts, but being too late for the Post, deferred sending the Letters till tomorrow.  Arthur Marsh left us at noon on his return home.  The two young [Iron] workers of Betley Court called with Note for another Talk relative to Cockshead Engine Reference.  Wrote to Mr. Wedgwood thereon.  Also to Mr. Vaughan with Navy Check for £1000 & also sent him the Minutes on our late Survey of the Canal.

Page 105.  1831  July

Thursday 28^th July 1831

Sent by this Post the several Letters written yesterday to the Creditors of the Macclesfield concern, with Bill's for their respective Balances.  Wretchedly all day.  Ledward came.  Left Bunch of Keys & the Bankers Book.

Friday 29^th July 1831

If possible, more [insufferably] ill today than ever.  Wrote Notes to Mr. F. Twemlow & Mr. Wilkinson informing them that Mr. Wedgwood ( from whom I have yet to hear) will meet on Monday at Mr. Wilkinson's Office in the Cockshead Engine Reference.  Wrote to James Bent, enquiring by whom the £2000 agreed to be advanced by Wm. Bent into the Macclesfield Concern had been advanced to him & was paid into the Concern.  Wm. Faram called, & arranged for him to speak to Mr. Wedgwood about the Canal Steam Engine etc.

Saturday 30^th July 1831

Still very ill, indeed more & more miserable.  The more I reflect upon my present situation, & the various consequences of the Macclesfield Business.

Sunday 31^st July 1831

The same.  Read Prayers.

August

Monday 1^st August 1831

Went to Newcastle pursuant to Appointment.  Attended at Mr. Wilkinson's Office, with Mr. Wedgwood as Select Committee.  Afterwards with Mr. F. Twemlow on Cockshead Engine References on which Mr. Hales also attended.  Returned to dinner ,but dreadfully ill all day.

Tuesday 2^nd August 1831

Wrote to [Daintry] Ryle & Co with further Remittance of £1310.9s.2d on account of late Firm of Wm. Bent & Co.  Wrote also to Mr. Parrot of Macclesfield, also to Mr. Crawford Paisley on Wm. Caldwell's business.  John Trubshaw came in conveyance of the Cockshead Engine having become . . .what be from the bursting of the . . .  Considered the matter with him & then wrote to Mr. Wedgwood J.T. Taking my Letter.  Recommended the Engine being considerably explained.  My Suffering through the day most grievous.

Wednesday 3^rd August 1831

Wrote to Ann Marsh inclosing her half years Interest.  Mr. Sneyd of Bradwall called.  Passed another miserable day.  Appetite going fast, & comfortable sleep gone.  How long can this be sustained?

Thursday 4^th August 1831

Another wretched day.  Heard of the death of the Revd. John Lawton,who expired suddenly last night about ten o'clock, without any previous illness having been that day at Newcastle with some of his Family.  Received Letter from Mr. Thomas [Hunt] of Manchester.  Also from Stamford.

Page 106.  1831  August

Friday 5^th August 1831

Another miserable day.

Saturday 6^th August 1831

Wrote to Dr. Holland.  Engaged on papers preparatory to going to Newcastle to see Mr. Ward on Brewery & Stoney fields business on Monday & to Macclesfield on Tuesday.  Suffering the same.

Sunday 7^th August 1831

Read Prayers.  Same.

Monday 8^th August 1831

Engaged on Macclesfield Papers.  Mr. Davenport called to speak to me relative to Revd. Mr. Carter obtaining the Rectory of Lawton & his present situation when I recommended Mr. C. addressing a Letter to Mr. Lawton.  Received invitation to attend the Funeral of the late Revd. John Lawton on Thursday Morning next.

Tuesday 9^th August 1831

Went to Macclesfield.  Saw Mr. Parrott & Ledward.  Received a Dividend to the Brewery from late Mr. Leigh.  Mr. Thos. Bent who I had requested to meet me did not come.  Mr. Parrott being much engaged on account of the approaching Assizes.  Arranged to go to Macclesfield again, some day after the next week.  Returned to dinner.  Met Mr. R. Wilbraham who appointed to call at Linley Wood tomorrow having some business which he asked to speak to me about.

Wednesday 10^th August 1831

Mr. R. Wilbraham relative to the Inclosure on Rode Heath, when after much conversation he said that he would show me the Deed . . .the whole of the [Manure] in the Wilbraham so far as related to Rode Heath, & I was to enquire whether Parties interested would sell the Cottages.  Stamford called in the evening on his return home.  Suffering still the same.

Thursday 11^th August 1831

Another miserable night.  Attended Funeral of the late Revd. John Lawton.  (Drawing of a coffin)

Mr. Davenport Mr. Ward

Revd. J. Richardson Spencer . . .

Mr. Kinnersly  59  J. Caldwell

On the coffin number 59. At the head Chas. Lawton & 3 Boys of . . .

Received Letter from Mr. Vaughan inclosing a Check on Stevenson Salt & Co for £2000, on account of T. Mersey Canal which I signed & sent to the Post Office inclosed to Mr. Vaughan in order that he might get it signed by Mr. Wedgwood.  Sent the Macclesfield Brewery Keys to Mr. Bent at Sutton Hall, by a Messenger who was to set off early tomorrow morning.

Friday 12^th August 1831

Went to Newcastle pursuant to appointment with Mr. Ward, & first heard from him the further great loss to which I am become subject from the heavy debt remaining due to Mr. Kinnersly & there being no effects of the late Mr. Bent to make good his misfortune of such debt, [already] the whole will fall upon me.  The shock of this intelligence was indeed great, and such as in addition to the Macclesfield Blow has almost overpowered me!  My present situation is indeed grievous to be born.  All my arrangements for settling my affairs, & passing the close of life in tranquil & comfort being by their most unexpected, & almost unenviable recourse of Fortune at once destroyed, and I am left a . . .to disappointment and discomfort however on my part unsuited.  Promised to see Mr. Ward again in a few days.  Returned home for dinner, but almost broke down with the repeated strokes of misfortune.

Saturday 13^th August 1831

Called upon Mr. Charles Lawton at Lawton Hall pursuant to an appointment made with him & conferred with him relative to the next presentation to the Rectory of Lawton, respecting which he wished to see me.  When after much conversation, he said that he would call at Linley Wood on Monday morning next, that I might have time to consider the circumstance he had stated to me in the mean time.  Ill all day.  Began cutting wheat, the oats in flat Swallow Moor being already cut.  Revd. J Anderton called.

Sunday 14^th August 1831

Read Prayers, but so unwell as to prevent any attending the service in Talk, as I had intended.

Monday 15^th August 1831

Miserable night.  Bessy returned home.  Wrote to Mr. Jos. Wedgwood, F. Twemlow on Navigation business, & to Mr. [Crawford] of [Paisley] on the late Wm. Caldwell.  Mr. Lawton came again pursuant to his appointment & with whom conferred a considerable time.

Tuesday 16^th August 1831

Ill as before & in the House almost the whole of the day.

Wednesday 17^th August 1831

The same but went to Newcastle, called upon Mr. Ward & arranged with him the payment of the purchase money of the House upon the Marsh late in the holding of Miss Byerley, & part of the Estate of Wm. Bent & Co.  Stamford dined at Linley Wood.

Thursday 18^th August 1831

At Newcastle again, finally settled the above business with Mr. Ward & gave him a check for the money, which is to be applied in part discharge of the Balance remaining due to Kinnersly from Wm. Bent & Co.

Friday 19^th August 1831

A miserable night & symptoms of a bad cold, with Fever.  Wm. Faram came relative to obtaining a supply of water from Mr. Kinersley & Mr. . . .Works.  In the right . . .here had for some claim, but not sufficient to be of use with a Canal.

Saturday 20^th August 1831

Ill & suffering much from the cold I had taken.  Wm. Faram came again having arranged with Mr. Kinersley, but not with Mr. [Har. . . ].  Wrote to Mr. Landor.  Rain had fallen last night which Mr. F. thought would supply the Canal 5 or 6 days.

Sunday 21^st August 1831

Ill, but read Prayers.  In the evening the feverish Symptoms somewhat abated.  Received Letter from Sir George Chetwynd.

Page 108.  1831  August

Monday 22^nd August 1831

Though unfit for it went to Newcastle & met Mr. Wedgwood & F. Twemlow at Mr. Wilkinson's Office relative to the [first] taking of Cockshead Engine & water which we deemed it expedient to do.  Considered in Select Committee, the supplies of water of the Canal, & gave the necessary directions to John Trubshaw & Wm. Faram who attended relative to obtaining further supplies at those [extend] . . .[Steam].  Returned to dinner.

Tuesday 23th August 1831

Ill as before.  Wrote to Sir George Chetwynd & Mr. Hales.  Engaged on the Penlington Papers, & considered the Claim heretofore made on the part of Mrs. Margaret Penlington to a debt of £300.

Envelop to James Caldwell

London August twenty three 1831

James Caldwell Esq

Linley Wood

Lawton

Mr – Villiers

Diary of James Caldwell

Wednesday 24^th August 1831

Miserable night without rest or sleep & ill all day.  Received from Mr. Ward a Statement of Mr. Kinnersleys Account with the late Newcastle Brewery leaving a Balance of £2000 & . . .still due to him, which I greatly fear that I shall be obliged to pay.  Wrote to Mr. Ward.

Thursday 25^th August 1831

Great suffering in the night, & rose this morning in a state of great wretchedness of mind & Spirits.  Mr. R. Wilbraham called & suggested a part division of the Inclosure on Rode Heath being taken by the [Landowners], which I said that I would consider of on looking at the plan.  He showed me a [loose] Memorandum required by Mr. Moreton relative to his . . .of the [Manor], but which did not appear to be sufficient for the . . .of Mr. Wilbraham's Father, nor such as could possibly affect the Rights of the Freeholders, & which I stated to Mr. R. Wilbraham.  William Faram called to inform me that if another Engine were set up on the Stream of water from Hardings Wood that 25 or 30 [tons] of water might be saved in the summit pound.  I told him to do it immediately, & wrote to Mr. Wedgwood.

Friday 26^th August 1831

Great dejection.  Men finished carrying corn, & thus completed this years Harvest

Saturday 27^th August 1831

The same.  Wrote to Mr. Spier of [Beech].  Mr. Chas. Lawton sent a fine Carp.

Sunday 28^th August 1831

Read Prayers, but suffered much throughout the day.

Monday 29^th August 1831

Wrote to Mr. James Skerratt of Sandbach requesting him to meet me at Rode Heath on the Penlington Affairs, where he fixed Wednesday next.  Wrote to Mr. Tomlinson proposing to call upon him on Friday or Saturday next, to consult him further as to any Legacy Duties payable under the Will of the late James Caldwell of Manchester.  Mrs. & Miss Tollet called.

Tuesday 30^th August 1831

Engaged on the Penlington Papers preparatory to meeting Mr. Skerratt at Rode Heath tomorrow.  Mr. Kirk came relative to the Steam Boat Engine of the success of which he spoke with great confidence.  Fixed to send him £100 of it next week.

Wednesday 31^st August 1831

Went to Rode Heath.  Mr. & Mrs. Skerratt of Sandbach.  Miss Wrench happened fortunately to be there.  We looked at the Inclosure, when it appearing more than a due proportion of the [Common] I proposed a Division of it which being approved by all Parties.  I promised to write to Mr. R. Wilbraham & propose my meeting him upon the Spot.  Produced & showed Miss Wrench & Miss Dawson my account & stated the Balance now in Kinnersleys hands.  Recommended the payment of the Debts remaining due from Mr. Penlington the Grandfather, which they approved & necessary of me to pay.  Stated fully the circumstances relating to Mrs. Margaret Penlington claim for Debt of £300 due from the late Mr. P, but the Ladies did not think this Demand reasonable, so long a time 30 years & upwards having passed without ever having been mentioned, and as if anything were paid, the money would eventually go to the children of Mr. Collinson, from whom a very . . .being stated owing to Miss Mary Parrington’s Estate.  They said it was quite understood from what Mrs. Penlington had said that she never . . . . .pay this claim . . .  Mr. Skerratt said that Mrs. Parrington’s demand was completely bound by time & could not be recovered, nor would the Will of Mr. Penlington be of any effect.  I said it was entirely a point for [reasonable] consideration, & so left it.  It was observed that had Miss. M. Penlington had any idea of this Claim she never would have left Mrs. Penlington & the Collinson Family the Legacies given by her Will, & which had been honourably paid to them, though not [accountable], not being charged by the Will upon the real Estates & there being no personality.  I propose to mention the matter to the Ladies at Rode Heath again, & I shall then have fully discharged my duty.

September

Thursday 1^st September 1831

Looked over the Papers relating to the late James Caldwell of Manchester preparatory to seeing Mr. Fred Tomlinson respecting the Legacy Duties & whether any be payable on account of Jean Caldwells Share.  Wrote Note to Mr. R. Wilbraham relative to the Inclosure on Rode Heath & proposing to meet him upon the Spot.

Friday 2^nd September 1831

Copied part the Note to Mr. R. Wilbraham & sent it by a Servant.

Saturday 3^rd September 1831

Went to Cliffe Villle pursuant to appointment, when upon reference to the Will of the late James Caldwell & other papers to Mr. F. Tomlinson who was clearly of Opinion that no Legacy Duty was chargeable in respect of the late Wm. Caldwell's Share of the Effects of his late Brother James & thus a Receipt of the Common Stamp should be the proper & a sufficient Discharge.  Speaking of the Lawton Title he said that the private argument could not affect the Title even if I had had a . . .of it, it having been decided in a great Case which he mentioned & on full argument, that a voluntary Settlement with Notice did not prejudice or affect a Purchase for a valuable consideration.  Received Note from Mr. R. Wilbraham appointing Wednesday next for our meeting at Rode Heath on the Inclosure Business.  On return home from Cliffe Ville, met not Mr. Robert Heath, who assured me of every supply of water to the Canal, & Mr. Kinnersly [navigation] being afforded.

Sunday 4^th September 1831

Read Prayers.

Monday 5^th September 1831

On considering the Lawton Title Share appearing to me to be several things necessary to be done for the completion of it as it now stands, & without the Act of Parliament.  Wrote to Mr. F. Tomlinson proposing to call upon him with the Deeds any day that he would appoint .  Received a very pleasing & affectionate Letter from E. Roscoe.  In the evening Stamford called & supped.

Tuesday 6^th September 1831

Went again to Rode Heath to make sundry enquiries relative to the Inclosure preparatory to meeting Mr. R. Wilbraham there tomorrow.  Received from London the Rings for Miss Stamford, J.S.C. Bessy & Mr. Skerratt, & presented Miss Stamford's to her.

Wednesday 7^th September 1831

Went to Rode Heath.  Met Mr. Randle Wilbraham, who was accompanied by Mr. Reece their [Steward] at eleven.  After some explanation & discussion I proposed a Division of the Land in dispute correspondent to what was approved when I was at Rode Heath on the 31 August & on which Mr. R. Wilbraham being desirous to consult his Father.  I consented to the matter waiting late there was done.  Stamford sent a hare & a brace & half of Partridge killed on Foxholes & Oak Farms.

Thursday 8^th September 1831

Rain.  Coronation celebrated at Talk on the Hill, a Dinner being given by Subscription to the poor Inhabitants.  Stamford dined.  Received Letter from Dr. Holland.  Lord Lansdowne [doubtful] of the Reform Bill in the Lords.

Friday 9^th September 1831

At home.  Letter from Mr. Vaughan.  Looked over the papers in the late James Caldwell of Manchester Affairs, & considered Receipt to be given by [Nan] Caldwell, Daughter of the late Wm. Caldwell.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan.

Saturday 10^th September 1831

Wrote to Dr. Holland.

Sunday 11^th September 1831

Received intelligence of the death of (blank) Watson the Tenant of the White Lion Public House, who was found dead this morning on his own ground, supposed from apoplexy, he being quite well yesterday.

Monday 12^th September 1831

At home.  Engaged on late Newcastle / Macclesfield Brewery Papers, preparatory to calling upon Mr. Ward tomorrow at Newcastle.

Tuesday 13^th September 1831

Went to Newcastle early.  Called upon Mr. Ward with whom I had a long conversation & left with him the Balance Sheet for the year 1822 signed by W. Bent, R. Bent & myself & subsequently Further Balance Sheets.  Surprized at the tone of Mr. Wards conversation, which indirected a [disposition] to taking advantage that could be obtained by rising legal & [quibbling] . . . , particularly in respect to the Macclesfield Brewery taken by Mr. Bent & myself.  Dined afterwards at Betley Hall.  Miss Stamford going also, & where we staid all night.

Page 111.  1831  September

Wednesday 14^th September 1831

Breakfasted at Betley Hall.  Called at Betley Court & the Revd. Mr. [Turton], & returned home to dinner.  Found a Note from Mr. R. Wilbraham informing me that his Father had no objection to the Arranged mark at Rode Heath, so that this troublesome matter may now be considered as finally settled.

Thursday 15^th September 1831

Mr. Booth came, with whom consulted as to the Steps necessary to be taken in consequence of the death of Watson of the White Lion Inn & required a Notice to quit, but on which directed Mr. Booth to consult Mr. Tomlinson.  Mr. Booth said he was at Whitchurch the [Brewery] (last Tuesday) when corn stacks etc. in that Neighbourhood had been set fire to by [Incendiaries] & [consumed]. The one farm belonging to Sir Rowland Hill damage had been done to the amount of £2000, at another Farm to the Account of £5 or 600 & to attend to about £3 or 400.  A Letter had been found addressed to the Tenant of one of the Farms saying 'if you pay any more Tithe your Corn should be destroyed'.  Mr. John Sneyd of Bradwall called.  Mr. Davenport came to see the Kitchen Maid who was very ill.

Friday 16^th September 1831

Engaged on Lawton Papers preparatory to calling upon Mr. F. Tomlinson tomorrow.  Called with Miss Stamford on Mrs John Lawton, but did not see her, she being at dinner.

Saturday 17

Went to Cliffe Ville on the Lawton Business & had a conversation with Mr. F. Tomlinson which it was arranged that I shall call upon Mr. Williams & require an Estimate of what was proposed to be done for my satisfaction as to the Title.  Mr. Davenport came twice, his Patient being very dangerously ill.

Sunday 18^th September 1831

Mr. Davenport who came this morning being apprehensive that his Patient s illness might terminate in some contagious disease it being recommended that the Holland Children who with Mary H. were to dine here tomorrow, should be put off for some days, in consequence of which we sent a Messenger with a Letter to Nantwich.  Read Prayers.  Mr. Davenport came again in the Evening, & finding his Patient worse strongly urged her being sent in the Morning to the Infirmary.

Monday 19^th September 1831

Mr. Davenport came but the poor Girl so ill that removal of her was quite impossible.  At home.  Wrote to Dr. Holland.

Tuesday 20^th September 1831

The poor Girl expired this morning between 7 & 8 o'clock.  Called at Rode Heath & saw the Ladies relative to the Insurance & the [Farming] of it not.  Called at Stamford's but he was from home.  Mr. Peake of [Tunstall] called & with whom a long conversation relative to the same Reduction of the Tonnage of . . .allowed on [Slates], & which I promised to bring under the consideration of the Committee.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan.  Also to Mr. Booth relative to Notice to give at Lady Day next being given to James Walker Tenant of Foxholes Estate.

Page 112.  1831  September

Wednesday 21^st September 1831

At home.  Ledward came relative to the wretched Macclesfield Brewery Affairs, whom I promised to go to Macclesfield on Monday the 5 October.  James Barker, paying his half years Rent due at Lady Day last.  Busy sowing Wheat in Banky Swallow Moor.  Received Letter from Mr. Vaughan appointing to be here on Saturday Morning next at 8 o'clock.  Mr. Davenport came & gave directions for fumigating & purifying the Room in consequence of the Poor late circumstances.

Thursday 22^nd September 1831

At home.  Mr. Booth Junior with fresh Notice to Mrs Watson to quit at Lady Day next, as [altered] by Mr. Tomlinson, & which I signed.  Received Letter from Dr. Holland.

Friday 23^rd September 1831

Set off to go to Sandbach but Rain coming on turned back.  In the evening Wm. Faram came, & with whom engaged a considerable time on Navigation business, & appointed him to come here tomorrow morning to meet Mr. Vaughan.  Letter from Dr. Holland appointing to come here tomorrow or on Sunday.

Saturday 24^th  September 1831

Mr. Vaughan came to breakfast & with whom engaged on Navigation business all morning preparatory to the Meeting of the Committee on Tuesday next.  Wm. Faram also attended.

Sunday 25^th September 1831

Progress.  Dr. Holland arrived at Linley Wood from Maer Hall, & with whom engaged.

Monday 26^th September 1831

Engaged with D. Holland.  Took a ride in the Gig to Rode Heath, Lawton Salt works & Harecastle Tunnel.  Much conversation with the Doctor on various subjects, not omitting the Report Bill Cheshire etc.  In the evening the Doctor left us on his return to Town, being engaged to meet Sir H. Stafford tomorrow Evening at the Board of Health.

Tuesday 27^th September 1831

Went to Stone early, when closely engaged on Committee.

Wednesday 28^th September 1831

Engaged on Select Committee.  Returned home to dinner.  In the evening Mary Holland & her Children came.  Stamford also called on his return home.  Violent Storm of Thunder, Lightning & Rain.

Thursday 29^th September 1831

At home.  Mrs. Watson called relative to her continuing Tenant of the White Lion, when I said I could make no promise or engagement without consulting Mr. Booth, & declined received a Quarters Rent which she said she had brought.

Friday 30^th September 1831

Engaged on various Papers, Navigation, late James Caldwell of Manchester etc. etc.

October

Saturday 1^st October 1831

Engaged again on the same Papers & Copied afresh the Minutes of the last General & Select Committee.

Page 113.  1831  October

Sunday 2^nd  October 1831

Read Prayers & a Sermon in the old form.  But with what an aching heart!  Such [indeed] as every thing that more particularly recalls the past is ever attended with!

Monday 3^rd October 1831

Went to Newcastle to confer with Mr. Wilkinson on several orders of the last General & Select Navigation Committees & with whom engaged a considerable time.  On my return met Mr. Kinnersly who said he had just been at Linley Wood, and appointed to call again tomorrow morning.

Tuesday 4^th October 1831

Mr. Kinnersly came early , & with whom a long conference relative to a communication between the T. &. M Canal & the River Weaver, its possible effect on increasing the Coal Carriage upon the former, the necessary [Down Marks] of Tonnage etc.  Mr. K. strongly recommended the Insurance & I promised to call upon him as soon as the Select Committee received the Report of a proposed conference between Mr. Landor & Mr. Hostage upon the subject.  Wrote long Letter to Mr. Spier of [Beech] inclosing Mr. & Mrs. Fultons late [Joan] Caldwells Share of the Estate & Effects of the late James Caldwell of Manchester became payable to them by the death of the late Father Williams & Caldwell.  This will close my long & troublesome Executorship.

Wednesday 5^th October 1831

Sent Letter inclosing a Draft for £269.13.6. to Mr. Kinnersly this Mornings Post.  Went to the White Lion to have met Mr. Booth relative to Mrs.  Watson continuing Tenant but she being confined could not see us & I therefore returned & Mr. Booth afterwards called at L. Wood.  Engaged on papers previous to going to Macclesfield tomorrow.

Thursday 6^th October 1831

Went to Macclesfield in the Gig & where I arrived about two.  Afterwards engaged with Mr. Parrott & Mr. Ledward relative to this miserable Brewery Concern, & returned home to dinner.

Envelop to James Caldwell. Post mark 6 Oct 1831

J. Caldwell Esq

Linley Wood

Lawton

Paltimore

Diary of James Caldwell

Friday 7^th October 1831

At home.  Tired & Unwell.  Miss Stamford set off to Southport.  Elizabeth & Charlotte Wedgwood came to dinner.

Saturday 8^th October 1831

At home.  Mr. Stevens of (blank) near Oswestry, who is engaged on the Grand Survey of the Kingdom [searching] by Government called to obtain information relative to the Boundary Line of the Counties of Stafford & Chester, & other . . . which I provided him with in the best manner I was able & allowed him to take the outline from my Plans of the Alsager & Linley Wood Estate, which he said afforded him much facility.  He said the expense of the Map when published would be about 130 Gns. but that it would be printed in a number of Square Sheets any of which might be viewed separate, so that [Inhabitants] might have so much of it as contained on their own [Location].  He said the military part was under the view into . . .of the Duke of Wellington & that there were now 40 officers at work in Ireland.  I had a great deal of conversation with Mr. Stevens who staid a considerable time.  He appeared to be a quiet, intelligent man, & expressed much obligation for the attention which I had shown him.

Envelope to James Caldwell, post mark 8 Oct 1831

London October eight

James Caldwell Esq

Linley Wood

Lawton

Edward Petre

Diary of James Caldwell

Page 114.  1831 October

Sunday 9^th October 1831

At home.  Service as last Sunday.  The Newspaper brought the important & to gratifying intelligence of the suggestion by the House of Lords of the Reform Bill which was thrown out by a Majority of Forty one.

Monday 10^th October 1831

At home.  Engaged on the Navigation Case proposed by Mr. Lawton.  In the Evening Stamford called having returned [out] of North Wales.

Tuesday 11^th October 1831

At home.  Engaged again on the above Papers.  On going out afterwards met Mr. Robert Heath who was coming to Linley Wood to confer with me relative to the suggested communication with the Weaver.  Had a long conversation with him & repeated that as soon as I knew the result of Mr. Landors conversation with Mr. Hostage, I would see him or Mr. Kinnersly.

Wednesday 12^th October 1831

Engaged on various papers & matters.  Took Mary Holland in the Gig to see the Harecastle Tunnel.  Letter from John Trubshaw, & an amusing one from Anne Marsh, giving me an account of their breakfast with Sir . . .Scott at Lady Giffords.

Thursday 13^th October 1831

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Balgary for payment of the money which he still retains in his hands.  Began letting the water out of the large Pool, with a view to fishing & cleansing it.

Friday. 14^th October 1831

[Laid] nearly dry & finished the large Pool out of which we took a great quantity of small carp, & some of moderate size but some 10 larger.  Exhausted.  The Revd. Mr. Turner came about noon.  Stamford also came to dinner.

Saturday 15^th October 1831

Engaged with Mr. Turner.  Wm. Faram came, with whom engaged a considerable time relative to the division of water out of the T & M Canal, in case a communication was made on the River, & the effect on the water of the Canal . . .Preston Brook & Runcorn, with a view to consideration of the Case prepared & delivered to me by Mr. Landor, but not being able finally to decide upon the point.  I appointed Mr. Faram to come again on Wednesday Morning next & bring with him the River Weaver Act.  Mr. Faram left us at noon on his journey to Knutsford.  Received Letter from the Mayor of Newcastle suggesting my attendance at the Sessions on Tuesday next.

Sunday 16^th October 1831

Service as usual.

Page 115.  1831  October 

Monday 17^th October 1831

At home.  Finished getting up Potatoes.  Received a present of Grapes from Mr. Skerratt.

Tuesday 18^th October 1831

Went to Newcastle & attended the Sessions.  Two Prisoners only but both of whom were convicted.  Mary Holland & the Children left Linley Wood & went to Knutsford.

Wednesday 19^th October 1831

At home.  Farm etc.

Thursday 20^th October 1831

William Faram came pursuant to Appointment. & with whom engaged all morning on the Case intended to be laid before Counsel as to the right of the Navigation Company to draw the water out of their Canal for the purpose of a Communication on the River Weaver, in case the same were objected on the part of the Bridgewater Canal.  Considered with him also the Supplies of water on the T & M Canal etc.

Friday 21^st October 1831

At home.  Engaged on Navigation papers & wrote to Wm. Faram with further Queries.  Began [mudding] & cleansing the large Pool.

Saturday 22^nd October 1831

At home.  Revised & Copied the Case relative tot he proposed communication with the River Dam.  Engaged on these & other Navigation Papers from 9 till ½ past 10 o'clock.  Afterwards engaged on the Farm.

Sunday 23^rd October 1831

The Servants going to Talk Church this Morning, the usual Service here was omitted.  Stamford called in the Evening.  Prayers as usual

Monday 24^th October 1831

At home.  Engaged on Navigation Case etc.

Tuesday 25^th October 1831

Went to Newcastle to have seen Mr. Ward & suggested to him that I could not meet Mr. [Walthall] & Mr. R. Bent at Newcastle on Friday next as proposed, but Mr. Ward being out I left word that I would call again at 10 o'clock tomorrow morning.  On going down to the Farm met with Daniel Wilshaw in the Meadow with 3 Greyhounds & a Hare in his hand which they had just killed in the [Farewood] after running down the Hollin's Ground, & crossing the Meadows & which John Crosby.  On questioning Wilshaw what business he had there upon my Land, he said saucily that he had a right to come here , they had found the Hare on another persons Land, & he had a right to follow it.  On asking him for his Certificate he said none but his [Uncle] had, & who was coming up.  I said I did not care for his [uncle] or any such fellow who would come upon a Neighbour, or a Gentleman's Land and insult him by killing a hare so done to his House & Garden & that I should take proper notice of what he had done.  The elder Wilshaw now appeared at some distance but I had no wish to meet or say anything to him.  In the afternoon Mary Hollins & the Children arrived.

Page 116.  1831  October

Wednesday 26^th October 1831

Went again to Newcastle.  Saw Mr. Ward to whom I explained my reasons for not meeting Mr. Wilkinson on Friday, merely that I had never had any personal connection with the Executors, when Mr. Ward entirely approved my Resolution, but I said that I should be happy to [review] & attend to any communication made through him & Rowland Bent.  Stamford, after shooting, came to dinner & staid all night.

Thursday 27^th October 1831

At home, but very unwell & almost exhausted with the long & painful Sufferings & vexations of the last few months.  Wrote to Eliza Roscoe.  Engaged afterwards on Navigation Papers.  Stamford after shooting, dined & went home in the Evening.  Bessy came today about noon.

Friday 28^th October 1831

At home.  Very unwell.  Engaged again on Navigation Papers preparatory to attending Select Committee at Stone on Monday & Tuesday next.

Saturday 29^th October 1831

At home.  Unwell.  The Tower on [Moot Farm. . ], & seen from Linley Wood, was erected by Mr. Harrison the Architect, to commemorate the 50 years of the Reign of George the Third.

Sunday 30^th October 1831

Service as usual.

Monday 31^st October 1831

Went early to Stone, where engaged all day on Select Committee.  Sir George Chetwynd & myself, Wedgwood being prevented from attending by Indisposition.

November

Tuesday 1^st November 1831

Engaged again all Morning on Select Committee.  Returned home to dinner.  Miss Stamford arrived in the Evening.

Letter envelope to James Caldwell post mark 1 Nov 1831

J. Caldwell, Esq

Linley Wood

Lawton

PM Hay

Diary of James Caldwell

Wednesday 2^nd November 1831

At home.  Engaged on Navigation Papers.  Wrote to Mr. Hall Agent to the Macclesfield Canal Company directing as arranged yesterday at Stone the Invitation to this Committee to attend the opening of the Macclesfield Canal on Wednesday next.  Very unwell & [depressed] to [look] with Newcastle & Macclesfield Brewery Affairs.

Thursday 3^rd November 1831

Very unwell.

Friday 4^th November 1831

Mary Holland & the Children left us on their return home by way of Darn. . .  Wrote to Eliza Roscoe with present of a Christening Cake & 5 Gns.

Saturday 5^th November 1831

Went to Newcastle & had a long conference with Mr. Ward, when he informed me that upon investigation & discussion with Mr. [Willenhall] & Mr. Rowland Bent & a reference to his Books it clearly appeared & was not omitted that the money left to the Newcastle Brewery by Mr. W. & Rowland Bent was afterwards opposed & who with the Consent & [priority] of the Executors & the acquiescence of Rowland Bent as Wm. Bents . . .advance into the new Macclesfield Brewery Concern [contracted] or by him & myself.  Called upon Mr. Wilkinson & considered with him the minute amongst my papers of the Anderton Case which I brought back with the River Weaver the Acts of Parliament, but has request for further consideration previous to the case being called before Council.  Miss Stamford being unwell, Mr. Davenport came to see her.

Sunday 6^th November 1831

Service.  Miss Stamford continuing unwell sent again to Mr. Davenport who came in the Evening.

Monday 7^th November 1831

Mr. Davenport came again this morning & found Miss Davenport better.  Engaged perusing & considering the Draft of the Anderton Case as requested by Mr. Wilkinson.  Sketched out some Minutes & Observations for the Report to the next General Assembly.  Cold & stormy day with wind & Rain.  Suffered a good deal from my Eyes which for some days past have been painful & weak.  Wrote to Mr. Fred Tomlinson urging the speedy conclusion of Stoney fields purchase, & to Mr. Ledward appointing to go to Macclesfield on Monday next.

Tuesday 8^th November 1831

At home.  Eyes very troublesome.  Miss Stamford being worse in the Evening I determined to send to Dr. Northen & sent a Note to him by Samuel Jones requesting him to meet Mr. Davenport here at breakfast tomorrow Morning.  Stamford called previous to setting off to London tomorrow.

Wednesday 9^th November 1831

Dr. Northen & Mr. Davenport came to breakfast & found Miss Stamford better.  Having received yesterday the Draft which I had [remitted] to Thomas Ward's house but . . .Book & but had omitted to indorse, I now indorsed & returned it to them by this Post.  Considered further the Anderton Case.

Thursday 10^th November 1831

Went after Breakfast to Cliffe Ville, & made arrangements with Mr. F. Tomlinson relative tot he completion of the Stoney fields Business, & which he promised to see Mr. Ward for that purpose.  From there to Mr. Wilkinson's, conferring again on the [line] on the Anderton Case, the Draft of which I left with him in order that the Case might be laid before Mr. Campbell.  Mr. Davenport again.  Miss Stamford rather better, but confined to her Bed.  In my absence Mr. Reece had called, leaving word that he had set out the division of the Rode Heath Inclosure for my imposition.

Friday 11^th November 1831

At home.  Miss Stamford much the same.  Changed the Milking Cows to the Hollins Ground.  Samuel Beardmore brought my appointment of Survey of the Highways on then the Township of Talk.  Mr. Davenport.

Saturday 12^th November 1831

At home.  George Beardmore came to whom I gave orders for altering the Cheese Room at the Farm.  Subscribed to Teesdales new map of Staffordshire.  Dr. Northen & Mr. Davenport again breakfasted, & found Miss Stamford better.  Mr. Lawton sent a Couple of Woodcocks.  Stamford after shooting in Swallow Moor Wood, dined

Sunday 13^th November 1831

Service.  Miss Stamford somewhat better but still very unwell.  Mr. Davenport came at Noon.

Monday 14^th November 1831

Dr. Northen & Mr. Davenport came again to Breakfast & found Miss Stamford going on favourably.  Went to Rode Heath & inspected the division of the Inclosure as set out by Mr. Reece.  Saw the Ladies, & on my return home wrote to Mr. Reece proposing to meet him at Rode Heath with us on Friday or Saturday Morning to settle what remains tot be done.

Tuesday 15^th November 1831

Went to Macclesfield, where engaged with Mr. Parrot & Mr. Ledward making sundry arrangements on these miserable& various Brewery Affairs, which every time I go appear worse & worse.  Returned to a late dinner.  In the evening heavy Snow.

Wednesday 16^th November 1831

At home.  Dr. Northen & Mr. Davenport came again, the former to breakfast.  They found Miss Stamford going on well.  Engaged on sundry matters.  Wrote to Mr. Vaughan.  In the house all day being unwell.  Snow again.  Letter from Wm. Faram informing me of a Notice in the [Master] [Covenant] of an Application to Parliament for a Railway from the Warrington & [Newton] Railway to Birmingham.  At night sharp Frost.

Thursday 17^th November 1831

Frost.  Mr. Davenport came.  Miss Stamford the same.  Received Letter from Mr. Vaughan.  Mr. D. said Miss S. complaint, if she did not keep quiet might end in Tic. . .or something worse.

Friday 18^th November 1831

Wretched, the same.  Laid down a new floor in the Room at the Farm, in order to its having been used as a Cheese Room.  Mr. D. came again & found Miss Stamford going on well.

Saturday 19^th November 1831

Dr. Northen & Mr. Davenport came to Breakfast.  They found Miss Stamford better & going on well.  Thaw in the middle of the day & the Snow wall which the Ground has been completely covered since Tuesday last, going fast.  Finished the new floor a the Farm.  Stamford dined.  At night Frost.  Wm. Faram came this Morning & with whom engaged a long time on Navigation business, & talking minutes as to further Supplies of water etc. etc.  preparatory to drawing up Report for the General Assembly.

Sunday 20^th November 1831

Mr. Davenport came again.  Miss Stamford considerably better.  Service.  In the course of the day & at night Thaw, but very cold.

Monday 21^st November 1831

Snow almost gone.  At home.  Engaged on sundry Navigation Papers.  Dr. Northen & Mr. Davenport again came to Breakfast.  Miss Stamford going on well.

Thursday 22^nd November 1831

Mr. Vaughan came with whom engaged a long time taking sundry Minutes preparatory to drawing up Report, but not being able to give thought  to what be provided to the case, promising to breakfast here tomorrow morning.

Page 119.  1831  November

Wednesday 23^rd November 1831

Mr. Vaughan came early to Breakfast & with whom engaged the whole of the Morning examining Minutes of General Assembly, Committee & Select Committee & making the further necessary Minutes & observations for the Report & for the next Meeting of the Committee & General Assembly.  Fine mild day.  Went to Rode Heath in consequence of my not having heard from Mr. Reece relative tot the completion of the Division of the Inclosure, when Miss Dawson promised to see Mr. Reece.  From there called at Lawton Hall, but Mr. L. was gone out.  Mrs. J. Wedgwood & Eliza called.

Thursday 24^th November 1831

Closely engaged the whole of the Morning on sundry Navigation Papers completing the Draft of the Report to the General Assembly.  Afterwards called at Clough Hall, & to have spoken to Mr. Kinnersly relative to the proposed Communication between the Canal & the River Weaver, & to have informed him how the matter stands, but he was from home.  Accidentally met Mr. Rob Heath to whom I mentioned the Subject.  He said that Dutton was in his judgement the proper point of the Junction.  He said that Dutton was in his judgement the proper point of Junction.  Went from Clough Hall to Bradwall to call upon Mr. Sneyd, but he was from home.

Friday 25^th November 1831

Went to Rode Heath & met Mr. Reece, with whom marked out the Division of the Inclosure.  He said he would get a Trench cut, but I might look at it again.  Received Letter from Mr. Vaughan with comparative state of Tonnages 1830 & 1831.

Saturday 26^th November 1831

Engaged on Navigation Papers & with Wm. Faram a considerable time this morning on various matters.

Sunday 27^th November 1831

Service as usual.

Monday 28^th November 1831

Engaged again on Navigation Papers previous to meeting Mr. Wedgwood at Newcastle tomorrow.  Copied afresh for his perusal the Draft of the intended Report to the General Assembly.

Envelop to James Caldwell, Post mark 28 Nov 1831

J. Caldwell

Linley Wood

Lawton

R.L. Neil

Diary of James Caldwell

Tuesday 29^th November 1831

Went to Newcastle & met Mr. Wedgwood & Mr. Vaughan at Mr. Wilkinson's Office.  Read & considered the Report which Mr. Wedgwood much approved.  Read & considered the Minutes of the General & the Select Committee since the last General Assembly & made the necessary arrangements for the Meeting on the 7 December.  Returned to dinner.  Received Letter from John Trubshaw, with long notes . . .Statement suspects the weather & slight fall of Rain in the last Summer . . . . to the Reservoir.

Page 120.  1831  November

Wednesday 30^th November 1831

Engaged closely all morning finally examining & correcting the Draft of the Report ,& afterwards making a copy of it, to be sent to Sir George Chetwynd.  Wrote to John Trubshaw requesting to see him at Linley Wood.

December

Thursday 1^st December 1831

Wrote to Mr. Vaughan & sent him by a Messenger the Copy of the Report for his revision as to Sums & Dates, & then to be forwarded to Sir George Chetwynd.  Received Letter from Mr. Rob. Skerratt complaining of [Illness] & Distress.  Miss Lawrence who was to have come to dinner was prevented.

Friday 2^nd December 1831

John Trubshaw came & with whom engaged almost the whole of the Morning relative to the Supplies of Water from the Reservoir.  Brooks, Mines etc. & to whom I read so much of the Report as related to this subject, & which he said was quite correct.  Sent the Letter received from Mr. Thomas Skerratt & E. Caldwell, to be communicated to Mr. Skerratt as she might think best, and sent R. Skerratt a £5 note of which I begged his acceptance.

Saturday 3^rd December 1831

Closely engaged at the Desk all Morning making sundry Minutes & arranging Papers preparatory to the General Assembly, & made another Copy of the Report with some Additions to be laid before them.  Received a Barrel of Oysters from Mr. Salt.

Sunday 4^th December 1831

Service as usual.  Stamford came in the afternoon, & staid the Evening.

Monday 5^th December 1831

At home.  Engaged on various papers, previous to going to Stone tomorrow.

Tuesday 6^th December 1831

Went early to Stone, where engaged all day on General Committee.

Wednesday 7^th December 1831

Engaged closely all day on General Assembly, being in the Chair.  Returned at night.  It being cold, dark & stormy, I had a very uncomfortable Ride being in the Gig.  Found Stamford here & Miss Lawrence gone.

Thursday 8^th December 1831

Engaged on Navigation papers & making Minutes & Observations in consequence of the proceedings of the Committee, the General Assembly, & of the Select Committee.  Wrote to Mr. Bouvarie in reply to a Letter received from him at Stone relative to the Opposition to be given to the projected Railway.  Wrote also to Mr. Salt & Mr. Vaughan.

Friday 9^th December 1831

Engaged again on Navigation Papers & correcting the Report for printing, pursuant to the Order of the General Assembly.  Received Letter from Mr. Vaughan making Cheques upon Stevenson Salt & Co. for the several sums of £500, £105 & £52.10 to be sent to John [Tornes] Esq.  Mr. R. Chairman of the Warwick & Napton Canals, Fred. Twemlow Esq. & Edward Simpson Esq. as directed by the General Assembly.

Saturday 10^th December 1831

Went to Newcastle to get a Copy of the order of the General Assembly made at Mr. Wilkinson's Office to be sent to John [Tornes] Esq. & to speak to him relative to sundry Navigation matters.  Went to Mr. [Hydes] to arrange with him relative to the Printing of the Report.  Returned to dinner.  Wrote to Mr. [Tornes] sending him the Copy of the Order of the General Assembly, & the Cheque for £500.  Wrote also to Mr. F. Twemlow inclosing the Cheque for £105 & to Mr. Edward Simpson with the Cheque for £52.10.

Envelop post mark 10^th Dec 1831

To the Select Committee

Navigation Office

Stone

Staffordshire

Wittleham

Diary of James Caldwell

Sunday 11^th December 1831

Being too late for the last Nights Post, sent the Letter to Mr. [Tornes].  Mr. F. Twemlow & Mr. Simpson to the Office by John Davies.  Service as usual.

Monday 12^th December 1831

Revising & correcting for the Printer the Copy of the Report received back last night from Mr. Wilkinson, & making sundry abridgements.  Engaged on this & other Navigation Business almost the whole of the day.

Tuesday 13^th December 1831

Made an outline fresh copy of the Report, punctuated etc. & sent it by Samuel Jones to Mr. Hyde the Printer.

Wednesday 14^th December 1831

Engaged on sundry papers.  Afterwards with Dr. Crompton, who with Henry arrived about one o'clock.  In the evening Mr. Ledward to inform me that Miss Ward intended not to [respect] the [possession] of the Boundary at the end of the year.

Thursday 15

Went early to Macclesfield, to confer with Mr. Parrott, who repeated, what he had expressed in a Letter received by [Lord] Ledward his clear and desired opinion that there were no grounds whatever for Miss Ward . . .to consider me as Tenant of the Brewery for the . . .of the time.  Returned to dinner.

Friday 16^th December 1831

Thinking it proper to see Mr. Parrott again.  Sent Samuel Jones with a Letter to him saying that I would come to Macclesfield again tomorrow.  Engaged with Dr. Crompton.  In the evening arrived letter from Mr. Parrott informing me that he had settled the matter with Mr. Woods, who had abandoned all claim upon me, on the present half years Rent being paid.

Saturday 17^th December 1831

Mr. Vaughan came to breakfast & with whom engaged almost the whole of the morning on Navigation business.  The Doctor & Henry went at noon.  Stamford dined at Linley Wood.

Sunday 18^th December 1831

Service as usual.

Monday 19^th December 1831

Unwell, with miserable dejection of Spirits, & great mental suffering.  I seem only now becoming fully sensible of my sad privation!  Sad and heavy is indeed the house when I can no longer dissipate thoroughly that hours of business in which I have of late been involved.

Tuesday 20^th December 1831

The like.  Engaged correcting proof Sheet of Report.

Wednesday 21^st December 1831

Went to Newcastle, with the Proof Sheet & giving directions for sundry correction which I found necessary, previous to meeting Mr. Vaughan tomorrow at Newcastle finally to settle the same.

Thursday 22^nd December 1831

Went to Newcastle again.  Met Mr. Vaughan with whom I carefully examined the proof Sheet, particularly in respect to [Dates] & [Sums], but all of which he assured me were properly correct.  Called upon Mr. Wilkinson relative to the application to Landowners & other matters.  Returned to dinner.  Found message with a Letter from Bessy, informing me of Mr. Skerratt being very dangerously ill in consequence of a paralytic attack & requesting to see me tomorrow morning.

Friday 23^rd December 1831

Went to Nantwich today Stamford along with me.  Found Mr. Skerratt in a very dangerous & precarious state.  Wrote to Wm. Skerratt to inform him of this.  Saw Mr. [Tolleston] who promised every attention to Bessy on occasion of Mr. Skerratts illness.  Took an early dinner & returned home, after promising Bessy to go again to Nantwich to honour any change took place, or she wished it & for which purpose I requested that she would send a Message.

Saturday 24^th December 1831

At home.  Wrote to Sir George Chetwynd with a print of the Report.  Wrote also to Mr. Edward Simpson at Cheltenham.  No intelligence from Nantwich.

Sunday 25^th December 1831

Christmas Day; but sad & melancholy on the recollection & sufferings to which it gives rise!  Formerly a day of happiness and enjoyment amidst the dear and cheerful circle assembled at Nantwich.  Wife, Children, Friends!  Alas! How changed the Scenes!  Received Note from Bessy, with account of Mr. Skerratt continuing in much the state as when I saw him.  Service as usual.

Page 123.  1831  December

Monday 26^th December 1831

At home.  The usual Christmas Party dined today, instead of yesterday on account of it being Sunday.  Wrote to Dr. Holland, & sent him . . .Boundary Affidavit with Extract from Audley Register of the 300 Mining with E.C.  Stamford dined on his return from the Heath House.

Tuesday 27^th December 1831

At home.  Looked with Mr. Johnson of the Hollins at the Boundary Lines of the Land purchased from Mr. Robert Rowley, & engaged on sundry other matters.

Wednesday 28^th December 1831

Engaged again with Mr. Samuel Johnson  & making Minutes as to the pedigree of Robert Rowley.  Mr. Henry Wedgwood called.  Received back the Navigation Report from Sir George Chetwynd with his approval of it.  Received Letter from James Bent informing me of Wm. Bent having made default in paying the money sent to him by me to pay advances on my share of the Macclesfield Canal, & that he had made a late default in paying the advanced on his own 10 Shares.

Thursday 29^th December 1831

At home.  Unwell.

Friday 30^th December 1831

At home.  Engaged on Papers & yearly Accounts.  Wrote to James Bent.  An Elephant passed along the Road on its way to Liverpool, being the one that has been performing in London.  The Keeper stopped it at Swallow Moor Gate.  It was perfectly quiet & tranquil but seemed an enormous animal as it walked along the Road.  It was upwards of [6] feet high, 23 years old, & weighed 4 ½ Tons.  He walked at the rate of 4 miles an hour.  Samuel Jones who had come part of the way with it from Newcastle said it walked nearly as far as the Greyhorse.  If so its speed must have been greater than I have stated.  The Keeper called it stop & it seemed quite sensible of its manner & to answer to it.

Saturday 31^st December 1831

At home.  Wrote to Mr. Cririe relative to the Macclesfield Canal Shares.  Mr. Ledward came to inform me on how things were going on at Macclesfield & said he would stay a week or two longer, as it might be useful in finishing the business.  Paid him £70 on account of his Salary.  Still unwell with great depression of Mind & Spirits.  And thus this melancholy & eventful year has at last come to an end.