Bedfordshire Archives Service Catalogue
  • Reference
    L30/14/333/134
  • Title
    From Fritz, Saltram to 2nd Baron Grantham, Madrid:
  • Date free text
    22 Sep 1778
  • Production date
    From: 1778 To: 1778
  • Scope and Content
    Grantham's letters taking several months to get through. Regrets the loss of no. 24 & 25. Cannot conceive why Sir Joshua Reynolds chose to paint the Duke of Bedford in the character of St. George. One of the four pictures by Angelica in the Velvet Room is Penelope taking down the bow of Ulysses, print of which Grantham illuminated in the Sykean manner. The Reception of Edward by Elfrida & the landing of Hergist in Cornwall by the same author are in the Salon. Remembers the latter in a Catalogue of an exhibition. Picture over Chimney in Salon is a Titian; a kind of Bacchanal, small figures, naked woman in corner. Not sure if original but thinks it has been repaired. Two figures mentioned of Schneider, in a former letter, both Game, are by Rubens. Fritz's poche; didn't like that made by Regnier so had another by a Frenchman who'd been employed by M de Noailles' family, to whom Siere was recommended. Poche better and cheaper, will continue to use maker but send occasional work to Regnier. Sorry that Masin leaving Grantham. The Villa hermosas have lost their child. The death will "put a stop to the education of children a L'anglaise for half a century". Compliments to Poyz, curious to see his book etc... Happy that Grantham pleased with plateau, thinks border is not that bespoken by Tom Pelham etc... Urns in the Great Room the finest specimens of Derbyshire Amethyst ever seen. Vicunas; will settle account when arrived. Happy that Grantham pleased with contents of letter of 31 July De-cyphered message; "the suspicion of Spain seems to encrease". Does not envy the Rious given the profusion of fish at Saltram. Glad that Madame Almodobar gives good account of England and Fritz, he thinks he has grown fat. Approves of Grantham's Pick Nick at the Roca de Arno. Banter regarding Grantham's luck returning and compliments to Tocago. Supposes these `Fritzisms' will be called wit. Glad Grantham has tidings of the horses, hopes the difficult commission will be successful. Duke of Portland went on Saturday. Had a small Turtle, brought by the Jamaica Fleet in at Plymouth, on Sunday. The General, Lord Shuldham & about a dozen more dined. Had a Raffle for a fine stone horse which Mr. Parker sold for 100 guineas to Mr. Lloyd. Now put up at 70, the lots are 5 guineas each, draw tomorrow. Dr Colville & his son dined. Former about alert as the late Baylis Arriaga. Four Regiments out this morning, performed their exercise & fired a volley in honour of the Anniversary of the King's Coronation. Dined at Citadel with Field Officers. Extract of letter from Draper concerning Shadwell's accident. Conflicting accounts from Mr. Sneyd and Shadwell's father [see also L30/14/333/147 and L30/15].
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