To PE in Rome. PE has complained to Henry Berens that Bedford has not written, and he apologises. Napoleon bound as fast to his rock (St Helena) as ever Prometheus was. Long account of the attack on the Prince Regent's coach in St James' Park as he returned from the state opening of parliament in the House of Lords (28th January) - was the glass broken by a stone or a pellet from an air gun? Lord James Murray, present in the coach and a Gentleman of the Bedchamber, claimed that it was bullets. Wry discussion of which politicians believe what. The prince has responded boldly by riding openly through the streets attended by only one servant. Talk of friends - he was with the Robertses when their carriage overturned, and was thrown by his horse when he rode to enquire after Mrs Roberts' health. Henry Hunt is to hold another meeting at Spa Fields on 10th February - Bedford may have to be present in a red jacket. The winter is very mild - Southey reports primroses flowering at Keswick on Xmas Day. (Letter continued on 9th February.) (Charles) Wynn has just called - traces of political feelings and anxieties on his face - discussion of why Wynn is too good and honest to be a politician. His elder brother Sir William has just married - it seems a proper match, but Bedford wishes it had happened before Charles had provided an heir to the title. Off to Spa Fields tomorrow - he thinks it will pass off quietly, but he might be killed. (Letter continued on 11th February.) Not killed! Quote from Molieres (if the king should give me all power, on condition that I forsake my island, I should refuse).
To PE at Hotel de Flandre in Brussels (v. 309). Has seen some of PE's letters to Mrs Elmsley - comments on the prison at Ghent (v. 301), and asks if it is similar to Jeremy and Samuel Bentham's panopticon; the Penitentiary House at Millbank (first prisoners admitted on 26th June, 1816) built on same principles. Comments on Ghent cathedral, and on PE's view of the people. Wynn has had a son. News of his mother and brother.
To PE staying with Sir Benjamin Hallowell (v. 347). Has forwarded by way of loan two volumes of the Dictionnaire de Treize Departements (guide to the Austrian Netherlands), plus a map - to enable PE to travel by his fireside before he departs. Discussion of Brussels' booksellers.
Asks for bed, board and stabling at start of journey to Petersburgh (?). If PE replies to Stafford Row rather than the Exchequer, he is not to mention the topic which has occupied his recent letter, since Bedford cannot guarantee that the letter will not be read by others. Someone (the king?) has been suffering from intestinal gas.
Trying to propose a visit and a time for it (plus a projected trip to Knowle Park). Regards to PE's mother and Mrs John Elmsley, and good wishes to the 'little angels.'
Regrets that PE was unable to dine with Southey - it was the only day Southey could manage on his return from the Netherlands. Description of the company. He has been discreet on the two matters alluded to in PE's letter.
Urges PE to come to town to view the Duke of Grafton's library prior to its auction by George Nicol (the Nicol who has been visiting PE with Bedford? - v.355 et al.). This would enable Bedford to escape a concert to which he has been invited - or if PE would bring silk stockings, he could come too.
