L30/14/370/9

From Henry Swinburne, Naples to 2nd Baron Grantham:

5 Aug 1777

From: 1777 To: 1777

"Stupid subject" occupying his pen of late is the birth of his latest child, [sex and name not given]. Sir Thomas made Godfather. Latter recovered after illness. [Tom] Pelham still at Rome studying "the proportions of the thumb & great toes of all the Gods and heroes". Drawing much of neighbourhood. Carlo Nolli/Noli ill, gone to Sorrento. Granada "things" held up. Nolli has very insecure future after 26 years Service to the King & his father. Eyesight failing, will have nothing to live on. Presenting a Memorial to Marquis della Sambuca for a pension. Swinburne fears little success; requests a mention of Nolli's case to King of Spain who knows him, a recommendation to Sambuca would likely work. Also, would Grantham have a word with Duke of Losada. Request for small copy of large full length picture by Murillo of St. Anne teaching the Virgin Mary to read. Picture in Cabinet of the Prince of Asturian at San Ildefonso. Young figure resembles Swinburne's eldest daughter. Grantham has a dauber copying a horseman & woman of Velasquez, could he do the work for Swinburne? Intending to go to Rome in December for winter. May take trip to Sicily. Doesn't want to miss Etna, Selinunte & Grigenti. Has read about island and almost made collection of it's coins. Description of Mr. Spence, a Sussex man, who travelled with Pelham; incessant chatterer, plays Tennis with the King and dances like a Mad Man at all the Balls etc... Queen about to lie in. If she bears a Princess she says she will hang herself. Belly enormous, but carries well. Attended Ball at Posilesso. Assisted at Review of the Liparotes by the King "she is the Lady of a royal Major of Brigade or she would have been killed with the noise & smoke..." Intends re-commencing general Tour of antiquities & curiosities despite heat. Mount Vesuvius left out, very quiet & clear at moment.

item

Pelham, Thomas,
Noli,
Spence