L30/15/54/98

From 2nd Baron Grantham, Madrid to Fritz (Frederick) [no.41]:

Nov 1778

From: 1778 To: 1778

Writing fully by this very safe and probably expeditious method [Messenger - Heslop]. Consideration of how public affairs relate to Grantham returning to England, omits speculation about Rupture as in this case be becomes "a mere obedient machine and must scramble home as I am ordered". Three other possibilities; a Peace with France; an adjustment of Points to be settled between England and Spain, or, a confirmation of Harmony between these two Courts by more intimate political and commercial Union. First situation must take some form, if at all, at no very distant period. Three or four Messengers tooing and froing will conclude or annihilate this business. Second situation a work of longer time, particularly if involving S. American affairs. Last situation will require much discussion, still at very early stages. Grantham's reasons for feeling entitled to lay claim for a Release from the burden he has borne. Discusses mode of doing this; two letters enclosed for Fritz, one a private letter to Lord Weymouth [not present], the other a letter ostensibly to Fritz but which can be shown if necessary - L 30/15/54/99]. Lord Stormont's promotion; had it happened a year ago, might have made the opening so often talked of, but doesn't regret it at all, even though had he then gone from Spain he would have been home now. Does not suppose he'd have seen deeper into the Perfidy of France than another. Regarding the Embassy to Paris, would never have been on a tolerable footing with the present French Ministers; "could not bear to be elbowed by Franklin and Deane and it will be some time before the French have done laughing at us". On their private affairs; approves of Fritz's idea of "making an object to have at command as soon as may be, both 6000 and 4000£, or either of those sums to be paid off in order we should determine". Doesn't know Draper's objection, and execution of the scheme will depend a great deal on remittances from Ireland. The Spanish Salary will answer to the Spanish Drafts and the Irish money should go to the funds to join the Stock already there. Affairs in Spain should stand thus; at the end of the month with this month's money, will pay all this month's Currency, Munro's Interest and perhaps enough to the Box to leave only a debt of £200. No other arrears exist. Alternative arrangement for paying Munro. Approves scheme for making use of Damash and Kilt furniture he possesses in Spain. Plan to fit up two Drawing Rooms upstairs in Town and that at Newby with it. Fritz to acquaint him with what the rooms require etc. Any wine he possesses will be sent to England. The two Oval glasses for the Drawing Room at Newby to be put between the windows. More gilding perhaps required. Needs full information about Franchise with regard to Entries, "tho' I should scorn to make any ill use of such a Privilege, yet I would not in any Respect forego the Benefit of it". Do not listen to any requests of friends on this, glad Saltram and Stanmer well furnished, these being the only two houses he would assist. 21 November 1778 Health improving feeling "quite like another Man". Felt stout enough at Morino's "even to hold forth". Had been at Court and in Conference with him before. General talk of his work. The Portuguese have arrived. Memeses not so handsome as an Abbé, his wife at Madrid reputedly ugly. The Torrecillas does the honours to her and carried her to the Play where Portugal gave a grand Ringresca in the Box. He has a Postilion with feathers and his horses are starving. Don Rodrigo is not altered, enquired after Fritz. Allowed him to accompany them. [Grantham and Waddilove] to take leave of the Old Chapel and Sala Capitular. Met the Duke and Duchess of Arcos in the Convent. Goyecochea has just left a Receipt and Herb for the Gravel. Morino's famous ointment from Rome sent for Grantham. Thankfully wants nothing but Asses milk. 22 November [1778] Copies of private letter to Lord Weymouth and ostensible one for Fritz marked n.2 in this Packet. Has darkened the state of his health and spoken too lightly of the possibility of Fritz's return. Their wish to be together should not appear as too powerful a motive in a public transaction etc... Attended Court, met the King and Prince, took leave of them. Great attention towards Grantham, not mentioned in any official letters lest he should be thought laying too much stress[?] on them. Has likewise been [with] M. Floridablanca who has sent orders through Castyon/Carlyon[?] to O'Neil that there be no Foul Play about the Frigate, but that she may start fair. Would like to have seen Captain Finch so lately in Fritz's company. Has written to Draper about his wish to return etc...and his opinion on scraping together 6000 or 4000. Longs to hear from him etc... Love to Nanny and Parkers. 23 November 1778.

item

Heslop,
Weymouth,
Robinson, Frederick,
Stormont,
Franklin,
Deane,
Draper,
Munro,
Morino,
Rodrigo,
Waddilove,
Arcos,
Finch

messenger, American War of Independence, France, Spain