Queensferry – Guardship

HMS LORD WARDEN - II

[Wooden broadside ironclad]

1877: Visits Scottish relations - Disgrace of Russell - Visits Queenstown and Bantry - Cowes week - Visit of Prince of Wales - Visit to James Hall at Broadmoor - Christmas at Sheerness with family.

LINK FROM [PAGE5220]. FIND - 22 September - 29 September AND 28 December.

1877

AT DEVONPORT

7 January – Sunday

26 January

Spent a very jovial Xmas at home, having got four days leave. We had a large party.

Took the Shaws to midnight service the last day of the old year at St Jude’s. Thought it a bit of a theatrical display turning the lights up and down. Nina Shaw gone over to Ventnor for ten days, worse luck take it.

Authorities most anxious to get rid of us, won’t give us anything and would not let us go alongside the yard which, being shorthanded as we are, makes it tedious and heavy work fitting out. We soon go North, short of Petty Officers, who are not to be got for love or money.

Heard a story of our blue-jackets last year, who took the guard of honour at Edinburgh, and had great difficulty keeping the mob back. A lancer, capering along very gaily, was stopped by a blue jacket saying “I say Jack, shove the awe of your horse in here in a minute”, made the mob laugh. Jack did as he was asked, the fellows say he was an officer that obliged.

ARRIVE QUEENSFERRY

28 January – Sunday

After a rough and tumble passage north, we anchored between Queensferry North and Q. South.

Friday week, just inside Inch Garvi, we rather took our moorings in. Since which I’ve been busily engaged drilling Reserve men and getting my own guns crews, a little bit in their stations. The Reserve men are a fine body of men and if incorporated in a Ship’s Co., would take very little time before they would be equal to our best A.Bs. There are some 37 at drill now and they vary from 30 to 50 in number during the winter months. They certainly don’t get the worst of the bargain with the Government, for they get many advantages etc. and their being called out is a very remote contingency.

I’ve been regularly laid up with a very nasty chill suffering from neuralgia, earache, sore throat and rheumatism, all at the same time. I’m nearly rid of it all now, thank God. At one time coming up North I thought I was suffering from heart disease, I got such pains about the region of it, but the Doctor carefully examined me, and said there was nothing the matter, and so concluded it must the rheumatism in the muscles.

Yesterday I went up to Edinburgh and did some shopping, and paid calls on the Mowbrays. Found them out, then went with Pigott and had 5 o’c tea with the Scott-Elliots; three charming daughters. Not heard from the Shaws yet? I wonder how Ildegonda is getting on. What a romp she is rolling over the floor.

1 February – Thursday

Last night we had 6 of the 78th and 2 of the 7th Hussars to dine. We also got down 15 of their bandsmen, & Ronald the Pipe Major. We got up from dinner at 10.30 and adjourned to Captain’s cabin for smoking etc.

Songs were sung, reels and hornpipes danced, up till 2 am and some most extraordinary scenes occurred. Our sedate chief squatting on the deck, playing the big drum with great effect, but later on, he was outdone by H.. who began playing the drum. Someone took it away but he still went on beating the air.

Some of the soldiers, I may say all, and a good number of our fellows were merry, very merry – (my opinion of these dinners is they are simply an excuse for stowing as much liquor as possible). The whole crowd slept on board.

3 February – Saturday

Just returned from Edinburgh. Last night went to a Ball at Masonic Hall given by Colin Mackenzie a cousin of Edward’s. Some 400 people were there. I got on very well and got some more invitations, which I’ve refused though. Paid Admiral Rolland a visit.

Saw a capital letter in The Times of Feb 1st, from my Father answering Mr Reed’s letters, very good and to the point.

8 February – Thursday

Mr Reed and Mr Robinson reply to Vice Admiral Hall. Mr Reed much more respectful in his language about Naval Officers. Punch of this week has a meant-to-be witty article with regard to Admiral Hall’s letter, signed Admiral Boreas Blowhard.

Walked to Dunfermline this afternoon with Nimmo. It is about 6 miles there. It is a very hilly walk, and took us longer going there than in coming back. The Abbey is moderately well preserved, or rather what is left of it, for the Scotch – scotch-like – took care to pull down the best part of it. Robert Bruce is buried here. His coffin is under the pulpit in the new part of Abbey. There are also a good many other Kings and Queens of Scotland that found their resting place there – notably Queen Margaret. Her tomb being outside at the East End of the Abbey, originally being in a Chapel of which one can just trace the walls.

Adjoining the Abbey are the ruins of the Refectory and Palace, the latter must have been of an enormous size and its site was well chosen. A deep valley loch side with a brawling stream rushing by, well wooded and Norman style of architecture.

6 March – Tuesday

Thank God I heard this morning of Robbie being all safe at Rangoon, in a billet of £15 a month. He seems to have been quite justified in running away from his ship. I feel very much easier in my mind now it is known where he is. He also writes a very manly letter.

Was grieved, and read it with much pain, the news of dear old Grannie having had a stroke of paralysis.

Our Inspection took place last Wednesday and went off very fairly considering the time we have been in commission.

Saturday week I went rabbit shooting on Captain Mowbray’s estate, which is a very good sized one. The house is about 300 years and is an old fashioned roomy house, standing on the top of a well wooded eminence, slightly below the summit of hill. It is well sheltered, the hill runs down by garden flats to a large lake, the opposite side of which lies great high rocks, wooded at the top.

Went to a ball at the Assembly. It certainly is about the finest Ball Room I’ve ever seen. Miss R – would keep ogling me, made me dance with her, for she regularly forced me to ask her. I don’t think she is good form. Two Miss Mays were the belles, they are very pretty, and are sisters of May in Service. Bedingfeld is a bit of an ass, he lacks common sense, can’t make up his mind about going out to fire or not.

Adm. Shadwell cut my Father out of the G.S.P. Well we can but live on a red herring.

9 March – Friday

Came to Glasgow to spend a few days with my Uncle. Found my Uncle James and Aunt had gone up to Oban. Found Grannie and Florence, Charlie and Robbie at home. Had some music after dinner.

10 March – Saturday

Went down to Paisley and over some mills, owned by Gibson Brothers and very interesting it was to see the beautiful machinery working patterns of flowers etc on muslin. It is the only machine of its kind in England. They also have a machine for turning out ladies corset entire, being self acting – it draws them in etc. The machine is entirely of their own invention, and they will not allow any strangers to see it. They turn out corsets, worked with white flowers, at 4/3d each.

They are very much against Free Trade in its entirety, for the French with their longer hours, less wages, beat some of their manufacturers out of the field at home.

Uncle James and Aunt Isabel returned from Oban.

11 March – Sunday

Went to Kirk twice. Wrote my dear old Father a long letter, it being his birthday, 61 years old. God spare him for many more years to come.

12 March – Monday

Paid another visit to Paisley in company with my Aunt, Florence and Charlie. Went over Clarke Brothers thread works, much bigger but not so interesting as Gibson’s. Some three thousand bare footed and bare legged lassies here.

Went to a dance at Mrs Outram with Florence and Robbie, enjoyed it very much. I must have shocked some of the Scotch matrons by dancing 7 or 8 times with Florence.

13 March – Tuesday

Returned to ship.

17 March – Saturday

A day’s rabbit shooting at Otterston. Lots of ladies on board yesterday and today music and tea fighting etc.

22 March – Thursday

Went over to Kirkliston and paid a visit to the Distillery. They employ some 146 men making whisky, and give them 3 glasses a day besides their wages. The Distillery turns out 20,000 gallons a week, and as the duty is 10/– a gallon, they pay a good amount of money to the Government in the shape of duty. The large vats in the establishment hold 10,000 gallons.

The wheat grain is allowed to dry for 16 days, in which time fermentation is going on and the sprouts come out. The fusel oil is extracted from the whisky. It is very strong and very white in appearance. To clean the vat out they let in steam at the bottom which drives out all the noxious gases. The grain is mashed up, later run off into mash tube and ferments, and looking at it, you would think it was brewing, but it is only in a state of fermentation, at a temperature of 90 degrees. It is then put in a still and boiled and the vapour passes off through pipes, coiled in cold water which condenses it and gives the whisky in its first state.

24 March – Saturday

Went up with Robbie Forman to see the Inter-University Sports. A Glasgow man put the weight 39 ft 6 in. Throwing the hammer, the head (a 16 lb. ball) came off and went swinging thro’ the crowd and came against a little fellow’s side and broke only 5 ribs. Most providentially it did not hit him on the head.

Had 5 o’c tea at the Mowbrays.

26 March – Monday

Wish it was Quarter Day. Been blowing hard from Eastward the last 24 hours, cold and bleak.

7 April – Friday

Russell left in the xxx for Melbourne. He went out with 3 others, as 2nd class passenger, with a good fit out of clothes etc. and what money Father and I could spare. It was just about time he did go, I don’t think he could have stayed in England a week longer. There is no reason he should not do well out in the Colonies. His has been a most varied life the last two or three years, put into several good billets one after the other, never holding one for any length of time, squandering his own and other people’s money, borrowing, running up bills, feasting one day, starving the next. It is a wonder to me he would never leave London before. Well I hope the past will be rubbed out with a sponge.

Saturday last I took a long walk, going to Linlithgow, 9½ miles. Got out just too late for the meet. Went over the Palace, which is in very good repair altogether. Saw the place that Regent Murray was shot. The Palace is not so very old but it certainly is built in a most beautiful situation, a lake bathing the foot of the eminence on which it is built.

A great many historical events have taken place within its walls. Queen Mary born 1542 – James III carried off by the Boyds. It was burnt in 1746 after the Battle of Falkirk by some of Hawley’s dragoons – the lady keeper, a Jacobite, entreated Hawley to let them assist in putting the fire out but he refused, whereon she said “Weell, weell I can rin frae fire as fast as any General in the King’s Army.”

The Church just outside the walls is very ancient, and is said to be the finest in Scotland. It was here James IV got the warning just before the Battle of Flodden Field, where one of my direct ancestors, Sir John Forman, Standard Bearer, fought by James’ side and recognised his body.

The Gateway is adorned with the badges and mottoes of four different orders – given to James. The Garter by Henry VIII, Golden Fleece by Charles V, St Michael by Francis of France, and the Scottish one Nem ms impune lacessit – No one shall touch me with impunity. Honi soit qui mal y pense – Evil be to him who evil thinks – of the Fleece. Pretium laborum non vile - No ignoble reward – St Michael - Immersi tremor oceani - I am brought from the boundless ocean.

Walked back thro’ Kirkliston and Cramond to Queensferry, making a round of 25 miles.

10 April – Tuesday

Went to the Ball at the Assembly Rooms given by the 7th Hussars, a very successful one. Worse luck had to drive down early in the coach to be in time for divisions, so only got an hour’s sleep. Jock saluted all the ‘Maggies of the Burnside’ in proper style.

13 April – Friday

Went to the Ball at the Assembly Rooms, given by the 78th Highlanders, a more magnificent affair than the 7th but not much more jovial. The Vice Regal Band of Ireland came over from Dublin and played in the Ball Room and the 78th in the Concert Hall. Met some new cousins, the Miss Frasers, fast ones, but pretty.

14 April – Saturday

Went to the Waverley market to hear the Band Contest, some 25 Bands competing. Godfrey being the judge, he had the ear-ache next morning.

Met a good many of my fair companions in the mazes [?] valse of the previous evening, there and also in Princes Street.

Wednesday. Helps a teetotaller, he took the pledge with me Friday last and Sunday night he was threatened with an attack of DT’s. Assisted to watch by him, he was very nearly going off and was delirious all night. He managed to get a little sleep and next morning was better. I pray God he may have strength to keep the pledge and that I may help him and encourage him.

Finished my firing this afternoon with 1st and 2nd sections of Musketry Party. Quilp alias Thenacerabad rousing every one up.

22 April – Sunday

Nimmo asked me to go with him on Friday to his Uncle’s who lives at Larbert, so off we started and reached there about 5 o’c and stayed until Saturday afternoon. It rained nearly the whole time and we were fain to content ourselves with billiards. Mr Bolton my host is a merchant, widower with family and very wealthy. He intends standing as a Liberal for County of Stirling against Sir Wm Edmonstone, the latter being such an ass, does nothing but say “Hear, hear” – very deep and very loud in the House.

Carbrook, the place of Mr Bolton is a nice property, the house is large and very well fitted up with every convenience of modern luxury. Miss Bolton is the second daughter and is nice looking and pleasant, tho’ not brilliant in any way. The son at home is a handsome lad of 15, he is the third son.

Heard from ‘Dumps’. Russell has been doing some very questionable things in his business with the Baroness. The Scotsman attacked my Father in a leading article on account of his speech at Fishmongers’ Hall. The joke is it was Sir Wm.H. Hall, not my father who was at the dinner, so I dropped the Editor a line and I hope he will appreciate the joke.

25 April – Wednesday

War declared. Jock Stewart appointed to the Thunderer. I hope I shall get out to Mediterranean.

Heard from the Baroness this morning. Russell has brought great dishonour on our name and placed us in great difficulties.

I think our worthy Captain tipples (whisky). Wish I was out of debt.

14 May – Monday

As we coaled ship this day I took the opportunity of running up to Edinburgh and with Bourke went over Mr Jenkinson’s Glass Works. It was most interesting. The principal ingredients that form glass are sand and red lead. 10 cwt. of the former to 4½ cwt. of the latter. Of course there are numerous other mixtures.

The whole lot is put into a large plumbago pot and subjected to a very great heat which brings it into a molten state. The workman then puts a long hollow rod into the molten mass, and brings out a small quantity which adheres to it. He then blows down and the air necessarily is forced into the middle of this pasty stuff. He then keeps the rod moving round and round, for of course the hot glass would by its own weight bend down and break off.

Even after it has cooled a little the workman puts his rod in again, and some more of the molten stuff adheres to that already on and he blows again and continues the same operations until he has enough on. Then with a flat tool, works the glass into shape, after it has been formed and cooled. It is then annealed to prevent it from being brittle. The heat is kept under 1400°, for that heat melts the glass. We did not see any of his Imitation Venetian being made.

19 May – Saturday

A dreadful accident occurred this morning on board. It appears that on easing out the moorings, which was being done by the Capstan, the port bridle had been eased out and shackled to the starboard bridle. The starboard bridle, which also had the weight of the port one, was being walked back, when the Capstan took charge and the swifter carried away, and out flew the bars. Several bars breaking and knocked the men right and left.

Furze, the brightest and most cheerful lad on board, a great favourite of mine having a most dreadful wound in his head, and the poor lad died a few hours afterwards, perfectly insensible, in fact some of his brains were on the deck. Lister, a marine, lying in a hopeless state and other men with broken ribs, legs, arms etc.

The men on the Capstan were laughing etc. and in my opinion did not know what they were doing and were not told to hold on until too late, and the fact was the Commander had not taken into consideration the serious nature of work and had not taken sufficient precautions, not even seeing or letting the officers X and 1st Lieutenant know that they were at work.

The Capstan in flying round, caught a rope which broke the bar, carrying away the Swifter, and all the damage was done by the splinters and bars carrying away. I just got on deck in time to see the poor fellows weltering in pools of blood. I’m so thankful I’m entirely clear of it all.

1 June – Friday

We landed the body of Furze at Hull and that of Lister here. Inquests being held at both places. Verdicts Accidental Death. I am very glad the Commander has not got into trouble about it. He is such a very nice fellow, but is inexperienced in big ship ways. We have a large Fleet here, Black Prince, Minotaur, Resistance, Defence, Valiant, Achilles and ourselves. We are awaiting the arrival of the German Fleet to show civility, and then go to Queenstown and see what the Russian Fleet are up to, just keep our weather eye upon them.

Hear there has been a very serious mutiny on board the Alexandra and don’t wonder at it, what with Hornby and Fitz Roy.

Saw in last night’s Times about Russell and the Baroness Bronte and I see the Western Morning News has not failed to copy it.

DEPART QUEENSFERRY

AT DEVONPORT

12 June – Tuesday

With the Fleet on the way to Queenstown. Eight ships, viz: Minotaur Flag (B.Seymour); Black Prince (Dowell, Flag); Defence (Cator); Resistance (Sholto Douglas); Valiant (Brown); Thunderer (C.Wilson); Achilles (Hewett) and ourselves. We left Plymouth Sound on Saturday afternoon, the German Squadron having left the preceding Thursday – and consisted of the Deutschland, Kaiser (Flag), her sister ship, Preussen, and Friedrich der Grosse.

A day or two after Russell’s exposé in the papers, Sir B. Seymour asked me to dinner. It was very kind of him. Excepting the Captains I was the only other officer asked to meet the German Admiral and Captains. There were present Admirals Dowell and Willes, B. Seymour – Bach (German) and English and German Captains.

It was a very pleasant dinner, quickly over. After dinner I had a yarn with my old commander, now Flag Captain, Lord Walter Kerr, and a chat with Admiral Willes with regard to the Coast Guard. I told him how disgusted we gunnery men were at being employed in it doing Harbour time, after our long and hard 20 month course.

A few nights afterwards dined with our Captain meeting my old friend Captain Wilson of the Thunderer.

Tucker and I paid visits to the Kaiser and Deutschland, both built on the Thames, and certainly until the Thunderer came in, the two finest vessels in the Sound, so every one felt. They are both so short, handy and heavily armed. The Preussen is similar to the Monarch but a little smaller.

The rifles they use are the Mauser Rifles, a very good rifle, and a sword bayonet something similar to our Marine Artillery. We were somewhat in luck, for we happened to find them at General Qrs. on board the Deutschland and saw one Lieut. instructing his Landing Party – and the others attending Gun Drill, and really picking up their men.

The Gunnery Lieut. was drilling the light 26 Centimetre guns in the Box Battery. Two fire on broadside, one ahead and on beam, and the other astern and on beam. He used a dog whistle for stilling the men and they certainly moved in a most surprising manner, being in a most perfect state of discipline and regularly flew to their guns and worked them. It quite struck both Tucker and I.

The G. Lieut. told us they went to General Qrs. about four times a week for two hours. I wish they would do the same in us, instead of spit and polish taking up so much time and we must look out that we do not live on our reputation. They had been coaling etc. so did not look very clean.

Paid a visit to my ever-to-be-remembered loving mother’s grave. Oh! how my thoughts went back. How I long and yearn to see her, but for one moment. I feel it as deep and as much as ever. She was all in one to me. I pray God that her death may never be forgotten, nor lost on me. She is Home and I shall, by the Lord’s Help, meet her there.

ARRIVE QUEENSTOWN

22 June – Friday

Yesterday week the Squadron arrived at Cork and the Minotaur and Thunderer went up and made fast to buoys, leaving the rest of the Squadron to moor in the outer Roads.

Saturday last I took a day’s leave and with Fosbroke, Harvey and the soldier hired a car for 8/– and drove out to Blarney. We went out by the River Lee, a very pretty drive indeed. It took us a little over an hour driving out and when we got there we found that Monday and Friday are the two days for public inspection, and we had a good deal of trouble in getting into it, having to telegraph to the Agent in Cork and we had to wait an hour and a half.

When we got admission we had still some trouble to get the key of Blarney Castle. However at last we got into it, and naturally made for the Stone. The castle is about 400 years old and is in very fair preservation. It is not very large, and stands on the side of a long rich valley. Close by it is the new house, a most substantial and large stone building, and would stand a good siege, evidently the owner had an eye to Fenian attacks. The Blarney Stone is not so difficult to kiss, you must not look down or you may lose your head, as you are lying down flat on your belly and leaning over the side. Certainly you have got hold of two iron rods holding the stone up, but there is heaps of room to fall thro’ and it is certainly advisable to get some one to hang on to your heels. The grounds are very pretty all round.

18 June – Monday

Filling coal bags at Haulbowline. Was visited by Admirals and Lord Walter Kerr. On going on board Captain Fremantle sent for me and said – Lord Walter had said he was very pleased at finding how well my men had worked and been kept in hand.

20 June – Wednesday

Took a day’s leave and went off to Bandon. Missed the train at Cork, and so took the train to Kinsale Junction, intending to walk over the distance some eight miles – but managed to go by the Junction and on to Kinsale, which is situated on the coast, very prettily placed, the harbour running into the town.

It was a market day, and the place was full of Irishmen, of all kinds. I cannot say I was much impressed by their personal appearance. Some of them looked the veriest scoundrels unhung. Taking a few biscuits for lunch I started off for Bandon, and on enquiry found the distance was about 11 miles. It was a baking hot day, and I very soon began to get fried, and was meditating sitting under the hedge, until it got cooler, having walked some four miles, when I saw a gentleman’s car coming along.

I, on its arriving up, entered into friendly conversation with the driver, and eventually found myself seated on the car, driving rapidly along to Bandon, for we had a splendid brother [?] in the car.

It was a very pretty drive, the trees overshadowing the road and forming a complete arch overhead, the last few miles. The road led along by the Bandon River, a broad river, banks well wooded, and the side we were driving along was very high some 300 feet, the road gradually leading down the side to the river, old ruins of castles were sprinkled along the banks, some two miles apart, Kilgobbin being one of the largest.

The steeples of the Irish Churches (Church of Ireland) showing up thro’ the trees, formed a very picturesque scene. I thoroughly enjoyed the drive. The country is nearly all pasture land, and one misses the cornfields, farmhouses, that you see in England. In fact I only saw one farmhouse, the whole way from Cork to Bandon, some 25 miles, the hovels and huts seeming to form a mutual residence for man and beast.

Bandon situated on the river of the same name, is larger than Kinsale, and a long straggly town. It has some large distilleries, but just walking through a place, one can’t see much for I only remained an hour, and that was spent at the Hotel, taking tea etc. I found my bosom friend Harry Mandeville had just gone out and so I did not see him, after all. It was a great disappointment. He has been doing good work at Bandon and around.

Got on board the ship at 11.0 pm that night after getting supper at the Queenstown Yacht Club. Pigott suffering from his eye, having had a boathook rammed into it by Coxswain of Pinnace.

DEPART QUEENSTOWN

ARRIVE BANTRY BAY

29 June – Friday

Cruising about off Cape Clear, fine weather. In the afternoon it came on to rain. Fleet moved into Bantry Bay and moored in the anchorage (Berehaven) inside of Bear Island. The country around is very sterile and mountainous. Bantry is some way off, the nearest railway station being 35 miles off, so County Kerry is evidently not very well supplied with railways. Hungry Hill opposite Bear Island is over 2000 ft high.

30 June – Saturday

The good people of Castletown have been doing a very thriving trade with the ships, as many as eight or nine boats attending on each ship. It was very amusing watching the bluejackets driving bargains with the women. Poultry seemed very cheap – 4 fowls and 1 goose for 5/–. Certainly they were not very fat, and seemed as if they had been running the mails to Bantry.

Castletown is the small village of the place. I noticed a large gentleman’s house on the Island, at the head of the Haven. There are lots of men, fine big fellows about the place, and women too – not very handsome, big limbed.

Weighed at 4 pm and stood out to cruise until Thursday, when we go into Queenstown and leave the Fleet shortly afterwards. Rolling very heavily 27° each way.

DEPART BANTRY BAY

ARRIVE QUEEENSTOWN

7 July – Saturday

Came into Queenstown Thursday last and commenced coaling ship at once. Pigott came back from London. I am sorry to say his eye is, according to the oculist, permanently injured.

Yesterday Friday, Holbech and I went ashore and I took him on a visit to Mrs Cummins and made some ridiculous mistakes, taking the Governess for Miss Cummins’ Aunt. Eventually Mrs Cummins came in and cleared the atmosphere, and Miss Cummins came in. She is very chatty, pretty and altogether a very sensible nice girl. She attacked me for not intending to go to the Ball that evening, that at last I found myself gradually promising to go.

We then went off to Mrs Collis, the Rector’s wife, who had an At Home and went off by 6 o’clock boat to dinner and I found myself at 8 o’clock going ashore to go to the Ball to meet Miss Eve, for no other reason took me.

Shifted at the Club and went up to Cork by train with a lot of other fellows. Got to the Ball at 10 o’clock and going up to shake hands with the General (the Military giving the Ball), he took me up and introduced me to his daughters and their friends. At last my young lady came. The soldiers did their duty very well, looking after every one very well. It was a most successful dance, good supper, good dancing, well ventilated and very good music.

One Militia Artilleryman got pretty full and in the middle of a valse down he came – fortunately he was not dancing with anyone – in the middle of a Trophy of Arms, on the top of a kettledrum and lay there, his head resting on his hand and gazing at the dancers. He made an awful row in the middle of all the arms. At last he got up and after vainly endeavouring to steady himself, stroking his moustache, he allowed himself to be led out of the room. I left the Ball at 4 o’clock and got down on board at 6 o’c.

Dressed and relieved the deck at 7 o’c and all this morning engaged unmooring. At 10 o’c we up anchored and proceeded to Portsmouth, calling at Plymouth to discharge supers – etc.

DEPART QUEENSTOWN

ARRIVE COWES

24 July – Tuesday

Off Cowes doing duty as Guard Ship to Her Majesty at Osborne. After leaving the Fleet at Queenstown, we steamed into Plymouth getting there about 11 pm. and I was sent ashore to report the ship to Sir Thomas Symonds, who asked me “What the devil I did, in coming in so late.” However after he found I was an old shipmate of his, we had a little chat together.

We then cruised up to Portsmouth, and getting to Spithead were told not to anchor, so on we went to Sheerness, and lashed alongside the Benbow hulk, the ship my Father was in during the siege of Acre in 1840.

Took in 350 tons of coal, men got some liquor on board, and got very insubordinate. We had a chase after a couple at 11 pm and caught them just as they were getting ashore. Another tried to stow himself away as they were getting ashore. Another tried to stow himself away in a brig, which was alongside the Benbow and in the Middle watch two or more got into the galley, but Pigott hopped over the boom, and ordered them out, just as they were casting off. From Sheerness we went on to Yarmouth, Humber and Queensferry, discharging Stores and men and then came back to Spithead, keeping three watches. From Spithead we were ordered down here to take the Warrior’s place as Guard ship. Had a try for a couple of weeks leave, but result is uncertain.

Alberta passed just now with Prince Leopold on board, who went out for an airing. I hear that no one in the Alberta is allowed out of ship, night nor day, whilst the Queen is at Osborne, although she is alongside the jetty – adjoining the Park. They are not even allowed to have a run in the Park sometimes.

Lots of shaves about the ship as to where she is going. Expect our new Commander soon, as McKechnie left us at Sheerness for the Shannon.

26 July – Thursday

Went over to Portsmouth to meet Edward and Father, Edward being suddenly ordered off to rejoin his regiment at Malta. Met Ned, and Dumps took his berth aboard Crocodile. Father looking very well, Ned not so, I am sorry to say. Made calls on Mrs Rawson and Edith Shaw, and then on to the Shaws, Mrs Shaw fell in love with dear old Father, as does everyone who knows him.

27 July – Friday

Ned sailed this evening at 7.30 pm. He was rather down. We had a nice little prayer together in his cabin – he commended Meta and children to my care, if anything happened to him, which I pray God may not. Spent evening at the Shaws.

28 July –Saturday

Returned to Cowes (on board).

2 August – Thursday

Started at 1.30 pm in company with the Mansels and some dozen other people for a picnic to Carisbrooke Castle – Holbech accompanying me. We had a splendid day for it – and had a dinner on the green and then adjourned to an old room in the Castle and made the fiddler strike up and we all danced on a rickety old floor about half an inch thick in dust. We confined ourselves to country dances and polkas. We had a good deal of fun altogether at the well etc. and got back about half past eleven being delayed at Newport by our horse shying and falling over the pavement – carrying away the reins. Holbech and I asked all the picnic party aboard for Tuesday next.

7 August – Tuesday

Raining and blowing hard from the Southward, Marine Band and Ices on board, and 20 ladies out of about 150 asked. Upper deck saturated – main deck sprinkled with chalk between the races. What might be called a well – however we enjoyed ourselves very much, as far as the weather would permit. We had asked all the Royal Yacht Club people and their friends. We had a capital view of the race for Her Majesty’s Cup. The Hildegarde won by a good deal. HRH came close to us and we manned rigging and cheered most vociferously – the ladies in the stern walk gave him a cheer, which he took his Sou’wester off for.

9 August – Thursday

Last night Pigott not having any one to accompany him to Lady Harrington’s At Home I did so – not that I cared much about going. We left the ship at 8 o’clock and fetched up to Lady Harrington’s house at 10.30 pm going in undress and epaulettes (being the signal from the Prince’s yacht). We found ourselves amongst the earliest, and being introduced to one of the Ladies, Stanhope made one of the set, and entering into the fun of the thing. He is very like the prints etc. of his father, short legged, and about average height, he certainly did not look anything very remarkable.

The guests soon began to flock in, and very soon the room began to fill – the Prince of Wales being amongst the number – he entered with great zest into the mazes of the valse and polka. He danced with one very pretty woman, who had on the lower part of her body a magnificent dress, but not much on the upper part, being very light and flimsy, being fastened behind by a brooch, which reminded me very much of what came out in Punch this week. A maiden, with her upper works nearly bare, giving a shake and saying “Another shake and I shall be free.” How ladies can rig up so indecently beats me – for men don’t like it, it can be seen any day in St John’s Wood for money.

Piggy and I left at 1 o’clock very much disgusted being entirely left out in the cold – most markedly so – it being much more noticeable, the fact of our being in uniform. Denison and Jock Steward came in plain clothes the former being related to all these swells. I thought myself it was a mistake going in uniform, as these swells thought it bad taste, but it turned out afterwards it was the Prince’s order – uniform, for he remarked to Beresford – that Denison and Jock ought to have been in uniform, but still the way in which these people treat you is most snobbish in the extreme. Holbech’s case being very marked. They seem a very heartless set, living on excitement and continued round of dissipation, for one has had the chance of seeing a little of them.

13 August – Monday

Yesterday Sunday HRH went aboard the Thunderer after he left – a distinguished company went off and had tea, the Band played dance music. Today the Thunderer went out for Target Practice, HRH going out in her with a large party of people – he fired some by electricity. On returning to the Osborne he made signal “Very pleased” etc. Her Majesty paid a visit to Thunderer on Saturday evening and had 5 o’c tea with Captain Wilson. She went into one of the Turrets and John Brown was by her helping her down ladders with his arms behind her.

14 August – Tuesday

27My 27th birthday, and thank God in the full enjoyment of health and strength. Received kind and loving letters from home and cards from Nina and Gertrude. Began unmooring at 4 am shifting berth further in.

21 August – Tuesday

Russell’s birthday.

Last Saturday went to a dance at the College and spent the evening at the Shaw’s. We all went to see the German Reeds at the Portland Hall, they were very good. Slept at the Nut, went to church with Mrs Shaw.

22 August – Wednesday

HRH paid us a visit with Prince George and Duke of Sutherland. He was introduced to us all, shook Bourke by the hand, mistaking him for Maurice Bourke. It is rather amusing to see how these Royal Personages manage – for instance, HRH asked the Captain about St Clair our Comdr. and then came up to St Clair, and talked to him as if he knew all about him.

HRH looked very well in his uniform of Captain of Reserve. Prince George was dressed as Naval Cadet. He took a cruise round the ship and after about an hour left. His steam pinnace could not manage for some time to get alongside, and after making several efforts HRH sat down on the steps of Accomd. Ladder and fairly roared saying “Oh! this is too ridiculous.”

23 August – Thursday

HM the Queen left at 6 pm. Manned yards and fired salute. She came close to us.

PORTSMOUTH – REFIT

4 September – Tuesday

In dry dock. Everyone on leave, including the Captain. Pigott and I are enjoying ourselves very much – day duty. Have had some musical parties on board, the Shaws, Martins and Jim Barrow contributing. I’ve got very fond of the two Shaw girls, got to know them so well. I regret they are both going out to India in November. I never met two girls that would make a better poor man’s wife, ladylike, full of fun, excessively nicely dressed and they entirely dress themselves at home. Ready to turn their hand to do anything. I hope Nina’s trouble will clear up brightly, poor girl. Going out to see them tonight, as I’m off on a fortnight’s leave. Father, we are all very thankful to say, has got Sheerness, the Command at the Nore.

22 September – Saturday

Returned Thursday from a fortnight’s leave. Father hoisted his Flag at the Nore on the same day. When I look back at his career and see how wonderfully he has got on, and made his name, so well known for zeal, gallantry and many other virtues too numerous for me to mention – one is constrained to say – “How wonderful are the workings of the Almighty.”

Wednesday. Father and I paid a visit and a most affecting one to James at Broadmoor. Meta, Esme and Mrs Stepney go out on the 1st in the Simoom to Malta. Francie, I took to school on Wednesday.

We sail on the 30th for Queensferry – it is to be hoped. It is a curious thing, our cells are never empty. There must be something wrong somewhere. Firstly I think the wet canteen is a great mistake in a ship. The men get saturated and think of nothing else but beer and porter – and again I think the men are not managed well –also we are very badly off for Petty Officers.

29 September – Saturday

Last night held a Temperance Meeting on board – took the post of Chairman. Mr Robinson spoke and others. It went off very well. The Captain and Chaplain both attended from motives of curiosity and joined in, the latter by opening the meeting with Prayer, and the former by making a couple of speeches.

Came out of dock this afternoon, and worked until 9 pm getting in our shell so that on Monday we shall only have our powder to get in.

Pigott has gone to the Griffon as 1st Lieutenant and been succeeded by Gregory who, I hope, will prove as good a messmate. So I become 2nd Lieutenant.

Heard from James, poor fellow, confined probably for life, subject to her Majesty’s pleasure, and subject only now to slight delusions which don’t come often and which he fights against. It must be dreadful thing, accustomed to a jungle [?] life, and so clever, to be shut up within four walls, and have no other gentleman to converse with. He was very pleased at seeing Father and I.

DEPART SPITHEAD

4 October – Thursday

Left Spithead Monday last after taking in powder. I just missed seeing Meta, and Father, the former going out with Esme to Malta. Arrived at the Nore Tuesday forenoon and saluted my Father with 15 guns. Curious, the Commander in Chief being saluted by a ship whose Gunnery Lieut. was his son. My Father made a signal, he was coming off to pay a friendly visit and he soon came, and went over the ship, and pleased everyone very much by speaking to all old shipmates, Heads of departments etc, and, not allowing any fuss to be made etc.

I lunched ashore at the Admiralty House, all the Captains, Harvey and Tucker also lunching there. It was the first attempt of the cook and I can’t say it was so very extraordinary an affair. It passed muster though. Baldwin is a capital Flag Lieutenant, and just like a son to my Father.

Young Baldie, mon frère, was very pleased at seeing my ship and cabin – and poor little man cried so bitterly at saying goodbye that evening. I came on board that evening and yesterday morning we got under weigh, but only just saved the tide, in fact in passing through the East Swin we had not a foot to spare. We drawing 28 ft. aft.

ARRIVE QUEENSFERRY

18 October – Thursday

We’ve now been up at the Ferry since Saturday week. Friday last I dined at Dundas Castle and next morning walked over to Craig Park, Ratho, and stayed with my people until Monday morning. Dundas is splendidly fitted up. It is a magnificent property. Colonel Thesiger of the Inniskillings and the Bedingfelds dined also. We had some music afterwards. Miss Russell playing very well indeed.

Spent Saturday and Sunday very quietly at Craigs Park with my Scotch relations. Returned on Monday and came off in a gale of wind. A small schooner foundered about 200 yards off us, just as I was coming off – all hands saved.

20 October – Saturday

Thursday last – Holbech, Taylor our young marine, and myself accepted a very kind invitation from a Mr Hunt of Logie, close to Dunfermline to make up their party and go to the Hunt Ball at Cupar, the county town of Fife. We landed at 1 o’clock and were met by a carriage of the Hunts. Bourke also took a passage up to Dunfermline in the carriage – he going to the Ball with Jim Balfour.

We got out to Logie in time for lunch. The family consisted of Mr Hunt, a fine tall Scottish laird. Mrs Hunt very charming and the two Miss Hunts – the eldest pretty, but a top gallant mast – the youngest, not so good-looking nor so tall. She was to make her debut at the Ball. Also, a Mr and Mrs Ramsay were staying in the house. He was a great tall fellow, looked between fifty and sixty – really only just forty. He had just come home after a twenty-two years sojourn in Queensland and had lately held the post of stipendiary Magistrate over some gold digging, some thousands of miles in extent.

After lunch the male contingent strolled through Mr Hunt’s grounds, gardens etc., and over the old Abbey. Mr Hunt, whose ground it is in, although the Abbey and Palace are open to the public. By the way he had a lawsuit about it – but lost – acted as Cicerone and a splendid one he made.

Dinner came and then on by special train, with saloon carriages to Cupar. Mr Hunt would not hear of us paying either the railway fair 13/6d or Ball tickets 15/– each. He said “No – I brought you from Queensferry and I’ll put you back there.”

We got to the Ball just before 10 o’c, and were soon into the thick of it. I found several Auld Reekie lassies I knew there and soon filled my card. Bourke got to the Hotel but was constrained to go to bed after dinner, with an attack of fever and indigestion, so he did not see much of the Ball. The red coats of the Fife Hunt enlivened the scene very much; though I noticed the tumbles were all of the Hunt men – bow legs I suppose. It was a little crowded.

The Highland Schottische and Sempete [?] were great fun. We got home by 5 o’c and had another supper and turned in. Out by 10 o’c, breakfast and back to the ship – a very enjoyable trip.

Obliged to refuse invitation from Scott-Elliots to stay with them at Fothringham, near Forfar – money, the same old cry. Robbie Forman goes out to the Turkish Army as Surgeon. My Father assisting him, a good deal through Musurus Pasha the Ambassador. Paid the Formans a visit at Craig Park.

28 October – Sunday

Yesterday went out by train to Craig Park and found Robbie had gone to Constantinople to take service under the Turks as surgeon. Charlie was at home and a Mr Anderson, so we hired a wagonette from the village and drove out some eight miles Roslin way, got out and walked the remaining five to Roslin Chapel.

I cannot attempt to give a description of it at all commensurate with its beauty. It is one mass of carving and done most exquisitely. The Apprentices’ pillar in particular, a pillar with a wreath of flowers round it in a special direction, every leaf being skilfully and well carved, but the whole of the interior, roof, sides, etc, is one mass of carving, and what makes it so very beautiful, that everything is carved after a different pattern. From the Chapel we went to the Castle, but did not go in, there not being much to see and a fee being demanded. We had just paid a 1/– for the chapel and knew we should have to pay some more later on. From the Castle, we walked down about a mile and a half by a footpath – along the banks of the loch, and it was a most charming treat.

The scenery is delicious, the banks are very high, running at some places to 120 feet high, sometimes sheer up, and the whole most thickly wooded, the branches stretching across and river flowing beneath sometimes bubbling and foaming, and suddenly, flowing along silently under some huge great boulder jutting out. We crossed by a foot bridge, into the grounds of Sir J. Drummond, a minor, and paid a fee 1/– and then walked along some way on the right bank until we came to the Drummond’s house, underneath which are caverns, where King Robert the Bruce hung out.

We saw the tree called the Four Sisters, under which Drummond was sitting when Ben Johnson arrived, and was welcomed by D – with these words – “Welcome, welcome, Royal Ben”, he retorted “Thankye, thankye, Hawthornden.” Altogether it is a most delightful trip and day’s excursion.

I should advise anyone going, to walk from Hawthornden to Roslin, as on account of the windings of the river, you see it better. Returned to Ratho, dined. Went to mid-day church – and walked back to the Ferry after lunch.

30 October – Tuesday

Went up to Dundas Castle in company with Taylor, our young marine, to see the opening meet of the Linlithgow and Stirling Hunt. There was a very good attendance, I daresay some hundred horsemen and some half a dozen ladies. The covers round Dundas were drawn, but without success, and then those around Hopetoun, but we had not gone far before we came across Holbech, our 1st Lieut., whose hunter from Edinburgh had turned out a snare and a delusion. In going across the first small ditch she simply went underneath him and sat down in the mud, so he had to give up all idea of hunting for that day. We came back with him.

1 November – Thursday

Heard from Miss Shaw who told me she and her sister were going out to India on the 13th. I wish I was going with her. Went out for a walk with Taylor to Dalmahoy Park, Lord Morton’s seat; returned to Craig Park and had something to eat there. Came back to the ship by the last train.

2 November – Friday

Had yesterday rather an alarming letter from Francie about pains in her side after running or drawing long breath, which has disquieted me. Lunched today with St Clair. His aunt – Lady Milne and daughter coming off.

6 November – Tuesday

Last night we had a Mr Grant on board, a vocalist, who sang a lot of Scotch ballads and made us all laugh. He was going to sing a song of some young girl who married a man of sixty-two and he quoted some authority who said – “A kiss just before going to bed and a glass of water in the morning, is like a tasteless supper, and a washed out breakfast”! He sang very well.

Great interest is shown in our young cat who is about to be a mother. Last Sunday a deputation of men came aft, headed by a Marine Artilleryman and visited the cat, who has a main deck cabin all to herself – another lot brought her aft about a 1 lb of raw meat.

9 November – Friday

Cat delivered of 5 kittens.

10 November – Saturday

Went to Ratho, and on to Edinburgh to Theatre Royal to see Irving act in Hamlet. Enjoyed it very much – it is a great benefit seeing a play one knows well acted and brings everything out very much clearer. The gestures and short expressions one misses in reading. The play scene was very good.

Returned to Ratho – had some singing in the evening.

13 November – Tuesday

Heard from my two girl chums – who go out to India tomorrow in a Trooper – very affectionate letters from them both. I wish I could keep the eldest.

23 November – Friday

Went up to Edinburgh by the coach, and walked down.

24 November – Saturday

Went up to Edinburgh by the coach found it very cold, walked from Edinburgh to Ratho, via Dalmahoy. Had something to eat at Craig Park and came on board.

29 November – Thursday

Blew up a lot of casks, torpedoes etc., etc. which all made a great noise and smoke – and amused the good people on board. We had some ladies down and of course all the Queensferry people. A lot of the Edinburgh lassies were coming down to lunch, but the day not coming forth very fine deterred them.

Everything went off very successfully. After the blow up we turned into the fore cabin and danced, I taking the piano. Mrs Sellar and daughter, Miss Lunnoder [?] and others were of the party.

7 December – Friday

Off on leave Monday next for three weeks or a month.

Miss Thompson, an American lady, left Edinburgh a few days ago for London, with one of her horses, shod with golden horse-shoes. Cost £300, will last 3 months. Think of that ‘ye starving poor’.

9 December – Sunday

Whilst smoking, down rushed a signalman and reported a whale, alongside, up we rushed and there sure enough was a large whale about 40 feet long floundering about 20 yards off the ship. The Q’rmaster declares he lifted the Accommodation ladder. That I doubt. We very soon were having rapid independent firing at it, however, he never came so close that we could make sure of hitting him – and it being Sunday we did not go after him – he went up the Firth.

17 December – Monday

Paid a visit to Sir A. Milne at Inveresk, the 10th, and had 5 o’c tea there and went on by the night mail to London. Travelled with a fellow called Carter, an actor, who gave me an interesting insight to stage life. He acts under the name of Clifford – a very gentlemanly fellow.

ON LEAVE – SHEERNESS

18 December – Tuesday

At 8 o’c saw me at Kings Cross and to my Club, a wash and called on Mrs Delvin Fremantle, found her out, and on to Francie’s school, had some lunch there and got down to Sheerness in time for dinner. Found Captain and Annie Fowler staying at the house.

19 December – Wednesday evening.

We went to see some theatricals at the R N Barracks – they were uncommonly good. The quadrangle was crowded and the men clapped so heartily on Father’s entry.

Thursday – I ran up to town and saw Frank Hookey off on board the Monarch to sail for Calcutta.

Concert by the Artillery, Miss Lethbridge going with us, they were uncommonly good. The Porter’s Knot was the first piece, very pathetic.

Francie came home for her holidays – she looks very pretty. Is going up next week to have an operation performed on her eyes as they have a slight cast in them.

Saturday – We all went to the Rink at the Naval Barracks, it was very pretty seeing the skaters, rinking to the music.

Sunday. We all went off to the Duncan to morning service, heard a very good sermon from Browne, the parson. In the afternoon Father held his meeting at the Barracks, about 120 men were there. Miss Lethbridge being his leader of the choir. Father spoke very well, with much pathos and feeling. Attended the dockyard Chapel in the evening.

19 December – Wednesday

Had a large dinner party Monday last of 22. Admiral Fellowes from Chatham coming, Captain Fowler being the guest of the evening. Everything was most successful – splendidly cooked – and very good attendance and good wine – and music from the Band in the Hall. After dinner we had some music upstairs.

Annie Fowler, May Lethbridge and Francie, the only ladies, with Grannie, and I must confess, although I says it, as I oughtn’t, I’ve not seen for a long time three such pretty girls collected together – and they all played extremely well on the piano.

Captain Flower was much pleased at the dinner. He went away yesterday with Annie to Berkshire. Last night Father went up to Chatham to dine with the Engineers. Capt’n and Mrs Glass lunched and spent yesterday afternoon with us. Francie and I walked out and had 5 o’c tea with Lady Walker.

20 December – Thursday

Played the common ass on the skating rink this afternoon, much to the delight of Francie and the onlookers. Made some magnificent convolutions on the asphalt; came away bruised and sore. Had 5 o’c tea at the Lethbridges. Met Captains Brandreth and Boxer there.

25 December – Tuesday

A very quiet and happy Xmas. Lady Walker sent us one of the biggest turkey’s from Norfolk I’ve ever seen.

28 December – Friday

Started off with Father at 7 o’c to run down to Berkshire. We went down by a new route, to Wokingham. When we got down to Wokingham, we discovered there were two stations of the same name, and that he had come to the wrong one.

So Father had to go back to London, and I started off on a 5 mile walk to Broadmoor, got there, had a long yarn with James, and walked back through snow all the way. Came down to Sheerness by the Flushing Mail train –and eventually reached home at 12 o’clock. Found Dumps and my dear little Francie waiting for me.

29 December – Saturday

Captain Fremantle has written saying he can’t give me a week’s extension as he promised, wrote back and explained to him that I’ve not had nearly the leave he thinks I’ve had. Went on the rink and got on famously – and as Francie said, I did her credit.

30 December – Sunday

Had our little Meeting at the RN Barracks, very well attended.

31 December – Monday

Captain refuses me leave. Gives me a day. St Clair, the Comdr, I see is bothering to get away – and Bourke also is away. I’ve been treated very unfairly – much sympathy from my dear family. I don’t think any fellow had three such charming sisters at home as I have.

Admiral Erskine came down last night to stay a fortnight as his nephew, Captain Erskine has just come home in the Eclipse to pay her off. Went on board and saw my Father inspect her. She was very clean. Saw Bowen my old shipmate, he is engaged to be married to a young lady out in Newfoundland. Dined with Father at the R. Artillery Mess, with Major De Moleyns.

Had some fun with my telephone.

1878

1 January – Tuesday

Thank God, I see another year begin in full vigour of health and strength and I pray I may devote more of my time to His service this year, than I did of the last and how thankful I should be at having such a Father and sisters and family.

Took a walk with Father, and then went on to the Brandreths, who had some 70 children, and a New Year’s Ship, filled with presents, lit up inside and aloft. Some of the children acted King Alfred and uncommonly well did they act, especially little Camilla Brandreth only 6 years old. Then of course followed a general romp. Sir Roger etc.

2 January – Wednesday

I left at 2.50, all coming to see me off. I never felt so homesick before – Francie now she is older being quite a companion. Dined at Club.

RETURN QUEENSFERRY

3 January – Thursday

Arrived here this afternoon. Had not been on board 2 minutes before Johnson was off to his wife.

5 January – Saturday

Walked out to Ratho and dined with the Formans.

9 January – Wednesday

Walked with Fozzy and Taylor through Hopetoun Park – a beautiful Park. Lord Hopetoun shooting vigorously. Made calls round the Ferry.

10 January – Thursday

Dear little Edith’s fourteenth birthday.

12 January – Saturday

Dined last night in company with Taylor, at Professor and Mrs Sellar, a party of 20. I sat between Mrs Graham Murray, a daughter of Sir Wm Edmonstone, and one of the Miss Sellars, of whom there are three – a very pleasant dinner. Afterwards we adjourned to the drawing room, and some 60 more young people coming in, we had a very good dance – and kept it up until after two o’clock.

Mrs Mackenzie of xxx, a cousin I suppose of Ned’s, played most brilliantly, but the people up North dance so frightfully quick. Introduced Taylor to the Scott-Elliots this afternoon.

18 January – Friday

Tuesday last, went over to Glasgow. Dined with Nimmo’s married sister, a party of 16, and went on with Mr, Mrs and Miss (Lulu) McNaughton, Capt’n and Mrs Fellowes, R.E, Mr and Miss McNair in a private omnibus, down to Hamilton, to the Ball.

Arrived down at 10 o’clock and with Miss McNaughton, a very pretty butterfly on my arm, stalked into the reception room, full dress, sword in hand, shook hands with the Duchess and waited until nearly everyone else had arrived. The Prince of Wales, Prince Imperial and Crown Prince of Austria, came along followed by a large suite, all having ladies on their arm.

The Duchess of Hamilton looked very like one of the Miss Elliots at Portsmouth. Her mother the Duchess of Manchester is a fine handsome woman and was covered with diamonds. Dancing soon commenced, the Prince did not dance many round dances, as he got jostled a good deal, he went in for the Reel very much.

Found Duchess of Hamilton’s Palace is a most magnificent building, fine halls and rooms most numerous, all fitted with fine paintings and art treasures of all descriptions.

I could not do justice to the contents. One, a clock, had for a pendulum a large ring of brilliants, the ring being about 10 inches in diameter and half an inch broad and it dazzled most beautifully as it swung.

The Duke is a big burly fellow, and did not show up much after supper.

We left at 3.30 am and got back at 5 o’c. I slept and breakfasted at the McNaughtons and lunched at the Higginbothams. Came back with Nimmo in the afternoon, got out at Mid Calder and doubled all the way to Craig Park, to say goodbye to Ethel. Found she had gone and all the Formans out. Had a cup of tea and doubled across to catch the Queensferry train.

Had letters from Father and Francie, the latter possibly may not go back to school.

19 January – Saturday

Dined last night at Dundas Castle, St Clair also dining there. Met the Lees, Miss Young and Samuda’s daughter, Mrs Bennett, Henry Blackwood and several others.

After a very pleasant dinner, some singing, and then we adjourned to the Hall and danced, and some more singing, all of us sitting on the stairs, Mrs Bennett singing. Broke up at 12.30, the men going to the smoking room and ladies, the young ones (so we heard next morning) sitting up until 3 am over the fire, no doubt criticising all of us. After breakfast Jim Balfour and I went up to Reekie. Four or five of the gentlemen, breakfasting in pink, went out hunting.

They make one very comfortable at Dundas always. Went to the Sellars with Taylors and had some fun with all the girls, with the telephone.

LEAVE LORD WARDEN

10 February – Sunday

On my way to China.

Monday January 28th. Whilst playing the piano – Nimmo came in and said “Your appointment to Audacious is in the paper” and so, on Thursday I had packed up everything and came down by the night mail, shopped in town on Friday and came home with Father, by the last train.

Being ordered passage out in the Pekin – one of the finest and largest of the P & O steamers – that sailed on the 7th, so I had 12 days leave before starting. Not so bad.

The ship will be home in or under a year’s time, but still it will have got me out of a Coast Guard ship.

I enjoyed myself very much at home, with all the family. I’m sure no fellow has a more comfortable home – more charming and pretty sisters than I have and my Father like an elder brother, so it was a sharp twinge to say goodbye.

Father, Baldie and Francie came up to Sittingbourne with me and saw me off and it went to my heart to see my dear old Father cry as the train steamed out of station. I’d do anything for him and my family and I pray God we may all be spared to see and meet each other again. Dear Francie took the Communion for the first time last Sunday, with Father, Grannie and I – dear child, I hope and think she will fill her mother’s place. Dear little Edith and Ella, I see, waving from the drawing-room windows.