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Withdraws recommendation of the oculist Alexander (see 2) - he is rough and brutal. On his own cataracts (including a failed operation) and other ailments - all very expensive. Again asks for JB's translation of Horace (see 3). On the sweeping away of tithes in these days of reform, and on the unfair remuneration of senior clerics - their old schoolfriend Hobart (The Hon. Henry Lewis?) as Dean of Windsor received

Encloses list of the cabinet, members of the government and Her Majesty's household, copied from the Weekly Chronicle. Wonders how John Fawcett (see 7) became Perceval (NB he actually changed his name to Pulteney).

Both he and Bull have separately lost an old friend - hence the break in correspondence. Does not expect a list of those supporting the revival of the Play to be published (see 29). On the question of establishing diplomatic relations with the Vatican - had any attempt been made during the reign of George III to introduce a Rothschild or a Roman Catholic into parliament, he would have gone mad much sooner. On Spike Island (see 24) and problems in Ireland - ministers see difficulties arising from arming and fortifying the island and increasing the number of warships stationed there. Increasing violence of the lower orders. Extension of rail network enables more farmers to send produce to London. Mentions Angelo's Reminiscences again (see 29) - he goes to eat beefsteaks at Mother Dawson's (a nearby cookshop in Dean's Yard) between school hours.

On ways by which JB may combat his depression. Invitation to stay - books (but no novels), walks in London, the diversion offered by current affairs (e.g. a failed rally on Kennington Green - presumably a Chartist demonstration, but clearly not that of 10th April on Kennington Common), the return of British expats from France in the face of the revolution that year (80,000 estimated to be in Paris alone - the family of the Earl of Pembroke occupied 8 carriages).

Has not heard from JB for 6 weeks, and hopes that all is well. Presumes that JB is hearing from his son in Ireland about the troubles (the Young Irelander Rebellion) - doubts that Smith O'Brien will have the effrontery to appear in the House of Commons.

Recalls his first meeting with JB 70 years ago in 1778 (actually 1779 according to the Record), when he entered Mother Clapham's house; describes his feelings of apprehension. The elm trees in Dean's yard have been cut down to widen the carriageway between the entrance and the Deanery; he does not approve. Likewise, the screens separating choir from aisles in the Abbey have been removed to enable a larger congregation to sit in Poets' Corner - pointless, since one can neither see nor hear from that position. The Irish rebellion is reviving in the wake of the potato famine. Wonders whether JB took up his living in 1786 or 1787 (1797 according to the Record). Commercial benefits of the railroads - but they have spoiled the countryside. The sale at Stowe (see 49) is raising large sums - but a drop in the ocean compared with the 2 million pounds the duke is said to owe. He borrowed £20,000 just to entertain the Queen. Suspects that at the upcoming trial of Smith O'Brien his counsel will plead insanity, which the government will accept to avoid further trouble.

Years of entry into College of Thomas and James Trebeck, John Fawcett (subsequently John Pulteney) and Charles Simpson. Thomas Trebeck is a rector in Sussex, and James was attached to the court of bankruptcy. Would be good to know the fates of others - John and Thomas Fawcett, Challoner (possibly John Chaloner), and Field (per the Record, possibly John Ventris Field), who HMC admired for his acting in The Siege of Damascus and the comedy The Author. Surprised that JB does not keep a cow or a pig. On the Marquis of Anglesey as Master-Gen. of the Ordnance (NB in the government but not in the cabinet). Some say that the new administration cannot last, but according to HMC Sir Robert Peel and his men will support the government. On the death of his younger brother William Paget from a stiletto wound received while in the Royal Navy in Constantinople; and Arthur (The Hon. Sir Arthur Paget), who quarrelled with the marquis as a result of his scandalous marriage. His wife's admirable cooking, using hints picked up in France.

No need for JB to send the pamphlet on tithes (see 11), since HMC has discovered the principle behind the bill. On the deficiencies of Daniel O'Connell's policies in Ireland, and the difficulties of waging war on Irish rebels. Quotes a line of Horace - he remembers so much not because of lessons, but rather the practice of the 6th Form at Westminster at passing their many hours of idleness (see 11) by quoting and then capping verses. On parts of Horace worth remembering in their own right, and the vain search (e.g. by Sir John Hobhouse) for places he mentions (e.g. his villa, the spring of Bandusium). On a recent assertion that the earth is no less than 47,000 years old - some discussion of the views of Dr William Buckland, Dean of Westminster.

Cross-written. JB is looking for a curate - John Ollivier, booksellers of Pall Mall, keep a register of clergymen in want of a position. Thinks of 'fumum et opes strepitumque Romae (Hor.C.3.29.12 - first read before he was 12) whenever he enters London. Ill discipline at the military academy in Woolwich, where 8 or 9 have been expelled - as with those expelled from university, they will never be able to hold a government post. A few tears ago the Duke of Wellington prevented his son from being expelled by Christ Church - he had got drunk on champagne, piled all his furniture in the middle of the quad and set fire to it.

Recent bad weather has caused many deaths, including his old friend the Duke of Argyll. Remarks on the crisis in Portugal, and civil unrest/disobedience in England.