L30/11/240/23

Sent from Newby:

17 Jul 1782

From: 1782 To: 1782

Week ago Lord Grantham received before dinner express from Lord Shelburne requesting him to come to town directly; set out at 6; got to town Friday, waited on Lord Shelburne and found offer the seals of Secretary of State; that Lord Shelburne, wanting his assistance in that post, did not incline to let him off or promise any other; after very miserable time, resolved to acquiesce, as he thought Lord Shelburne would never trouble himself more about him if he finally refused. This account he sent by express Saturday, asking my opinion. I knew too well the mischief that had been done by interfering in points that persons must judge of for themselves; therefore entreated him to do what he thought best; besides, knowing narrowness of present income and uncertainty of inheritance, could still less desire him to refuse only chance of improving fortune; did venture to advise he should tell minister and king that he took the office to please them and not himself; perhaps back next week, - alas! to settle our all going from hence. No choice but between London and Papa's house at Richmond; latter close and confined, but may be best, as boy can be taken to walk in Richmond Park more safely than St James or Kensington Gardens. "I will positively not enter into the society at Richmond or be of Mrs M Jeffreys' parties; have written to Mama on that head - evenings will be chief time Lord Grantham will have to himself, and I have been so long in solitude without him that shall be glad to have all the time he can give me." Glad of your company for any time you choose at Richmond, as I think I could make room for you, and might help keep Mrs Jeffreys in order. Do not think the business Lord Grantham has undertaken suited to his inclination or that he will be happy; won't like speaking in the House, especially of his Grace of Richmond should bait him. Surely Lord Rockingham's unfortunate death has made the strangest remumenage. I doubt Fox will grow more desperate; if he comes in again, there must be an end to both king and country. Boy continues well, tho' at times uneasy with more teeth.

item

Grantham,
Robinson, Thomas,
Grantham, Thomas Robinson, 2nd Baron,
Shelburne,
Jeffreys,
Rockingham,
Fox