On canvassing on PE's behalf in an election (v.440f). Anxiously expects PE's account of particulars in order to know where to direct further efforts.
Weather too poor for CW to travel to the country (St Mary Cray?). Southey writes seldom - CW disgusted by his public conduct in the face of a difference of opinion. The government expected to have a majority of 90 in both the Lords and the Commons on the Catholic question.
Has tried unsuccessfully to make PE a Freeholder of the County of Montgomery (thus giving him a vote there?) - Lord Chancellor Eldon's conscience has stood in the way.
Parr trying to contribute his views on the inscription (v.448f.), but CW has seen nothing of his which pleases him in either sentiment or expression. Encloses a version by Lord Grenville. Discussion of the authenticity of 'Cambrensis.' Off to the theatre to see George Barnwell (The London Merchant, or The History of George Barwell, by George Lillo), with the last scene revived, and the gallows and new drop introduced on the stage.
Yet another daughter has been born - any hope of a son must wait until another year. PE apparently did not attend the execution of one Nicholson (???). Allusion to the elevation of William Howley to be Bishop of London (inadequate to improve the lamentable deficiency of talent on the scared bench - he subsequently became Archbishop of Canterbury!). Brother Henry to marry one of Lord Carrington's daughters - described as sensible and amiable, 'though not handsome. The Carrington family gives him some consolation by showing that it is possible to have nine daughters, and finally a son.
Unable to think of way to assist PE's application to the Archbishop of Canterbury to be Speaker's Chaplain. CW a candidate for the Speakership. The Oxford parliamentary candidates. His brother having trouble getting his men to volunteer for extended service. A certain Hall has been trying to borrow money from CW with Phillimore as intermediary (who has warned him that he will not succeed) - PE may receive a similar request.
Wynnstay (the family home in Denbighshire). Apparently giving advice to PE on how to woo and propose to a woman (PE described as 'naturally shy'). Dated 'Sunday'.
On visiting churches in Paris. (John) Wingfield (Head Master for Xmas term 1802) retiring to be a prebend at Worcester.
Asks if it is true that PE was married in August. Hears that PE's brother has returned from Canada.
Charles Burney has described PE as among the first scholars of the present day. Has visited William Vincent and William Carey (a new broom sweeping remarkably clean). His trunk has been cut from behind his carriage, so he has lost all his wardrobe, and his great coat has been purloined by Mullens (OW John?).