JOURNAL OF
FR. JOHN KAVANAGH
BOOK 1; (p. 1 to 49)
JOHN KAVANAGH OF ANAGH 1790
I was born in a pleasant vale, named Anagh near the town of Gorey in the County of Wexford, on the 27th of December old stile, in the year of Grace 1749, of credible parents; my father was nam’d Terence, and my mother Elenora, who spared no pains on my early education, in the best manner which their abilities afford’d. I was not as yet 5 years old before I was put to school along with my elder sisters, who often carried me a part of the way to and from the school. In this early age, I soon laid by my primmer and advanced myself to the class of readers; my master whose name I remember was Laurence O’Byrne, was very fond and tender of me; I was no long under his auspices before he left teaching aside, and profess to the method of a pedlar and hairmonger. Thus my first master was no sooner gone to strip the heads of the human race, and clip the sides of buck goats, than he was succeeded by another pedegogue named Dillon from the Province of Ulster, a confounded drunkard, who was not less ignorant than his predecessor, but by far, more fierce, wicked and severe; his masterpiece, or what he most professed was the Catechism, and whipping of his pupils, in which he spent the better part of the day, and a sermon each afternoon, which was generally interupted by the sobs of his whipped pupils. This pedant was greatly attached to my parents and frequented their house, I might say, daily for the most part of two years which he spent in the neighbourhood; having always got plenty of the juice of malt in their house, which was his favourite loadstone,
this man having removed his school to another place too inconvenient for my age. I was entrusted to the care of another named Ambroise Sutton, native of Ballon in the County of Carlow and then preceptor of the children of Richard Doyle, Esq. at Barracurra. Thus, my new master’s time was wholely employ’d with the grammarian and those who read the lattin authors under him, in fine, I began to write under this master in 1750 and in a short time I could write tolerably well. This man who came very naked to the school, after spending two seasons left it, and returned to his native soil well primed and cash in his pocket.
I cannot here passerby in silence, the merit of Mr. Sutton’s usher Mr. G. Jarrel, who helped him in his school the last season, and who even gave lessons in the authors to Sutton, was a very polite young man, endowed with a great deal of good sense and erudition and afterward became teacher near Redcross in the County of Wicklow …. Sutton being gone, his absence was not long regretted not lamented, being succeeded by a very profound latin scholar and grecist, named Mathew O’Byrne, who in his youth was bred up for the Church but by a fall from a horse had his left arm fractured in such a manner so as to have it amputat’d shorly after; Mr. O’Byrne was a man of Dillon’s inclination in one respect; for like the latter, he loved the juice of good malt and stronger liquor no less. Immediately after Sutton’s departure, I was sent under the care of a young man named Bryan Doyle, who was a very good penn’d man and who took special care to instruct me in the act of writing, and in a short time I began arithmetic under him in which I took great delight, and can assure my readers, that I benefitted more under his auspices than under all my prior masters; for as I was his favourite scholar, so he strove with zeal to make me acquainted with all the science he knew. Mr. O’Byrne who was now tutor to Richard Doyle’s children had succeed’d Mr. Sutton whose fame began to spread for an eminent teacher, drew and occupy’d the attention of a great many persons and upon the intreaties of Richard Doyle Esq. and his lady with my father, I was removed and sent Mr. O’Byrne’s school to my great regret, having spent two seasons there under my new masters care. I knew more arriving under his auspices than when I left him. I was now advanced, near the 14th year of my age, when I received, by a fall from a horse, a violent contusion on my right temple which by neglect, in a few months after, came to a mortification, and had like to have cost me my life. My father perceiving my danger, brought me to an eminent Chirurgeon in the town of Gorey named Maw who on my presentation ordered bleeding and stoving, as I had forgotten the fall I received and not known to have received the least contusion. In 15 days after, my father brought me again to that eminent Chirurgeon, who immediately upon a closer examination than the former perceived the danger I was in, upon which he laid open my temple and a a considerable part under my hair. I underwent this opperation on the 4th May in 1764 in which I suffered greatly; for he not only cut my skin and flesh but scraped the latter which was putrify’d off my skull, which now was in several parts eaten by the gangrene, but fortunately not thorough; in a very short time after the opperation I was eased from the violent head-ach which I hitherto daily had, and by the good care of my Chirurgeon my wound was perfectly heal’d by the 10th October after having extracted 7 small bones from my skull by the virtue of his balsamic plaisters and I being now perfectly recovered and well, my father not contented with my knowledge in arithmetic, sent me to school again in the month of October in 1765 to Mr. Patrick Tully who professed at science and bookeeping at Ballyowen, 4 miles from my native place, where my father procured me a pension at Mr. Mathew Pool’s, a high German by origin, but far better known by the surname of palentines, being from the palentinates of Germany. Here I began to learn the science of bookeeping in company with Mr. Pool’s eldest son, and by the month of May in 1766, I was so perfected in that science that I stood an examen in the town of Ross before one Farrel, a judicious critic in that science; who even professed it and the lattin tongue said time in Ross, and in a short time after he received the order of priesthood. Having his approbation with that of several others in Ross, I was not on my return more elated at my success than my master, under whom I remained for some time after runing over arithmetic, the vulgar and decimal fractions and in fine, I was looked upon to be an excellent arithmetician and bookeeper as to the theorical part. I was at this time acquaint’d with enigma’s and rebuses, in which I took great delight, and spent a part of my time in solving and composing such ……
My Grandmother by my father’s side, who had now lived to the age of 89, deceased life the 24th of June, and according to the custom of the country, I return’d home to see her last obsequies performed. My father at this time being pleased with my learning, and good beheavour besides the praises which were lavishly bestowed on me by all who knew me, hindered him from providing for me as well as I perhaps desired: he was now too fond of me to admit me long out of his sight, and thereby kept me near himself instead of putting me in a way of trying my fortune, for his affairs required some assistance; I remained with him in consequence until 1770 at which time I prevail’d on him by the intercession of some friends to admit me to learn the lattin tongue, declaring myself for the Church, being smitten since the preceding month of November by a solemn mass I heard sung for the happy repose of Mr. Philipe O’Neal, for this great end, as I had not the small pox. T’was resolved that I should be innovulated which at that time was very frequent throughout the most part of the kingdom. This was in a short time effected, and by the 24th of June, I appeared in public assemblies. There was at this time, a lattin teacher near Gorey, named William Kelly, native of Hudford in the Co. Galway who then was in the decline of age, and having gained some small reputation by his travels into France and Flanders in the troubles of ’45, made several immagine that he was a man of great science and, tho, t’was true, the poor man never boasted of his own merit. In fine, I entered his school the 19th of July 1770 and began the 8th parts of speech under him, for grammar was his masterpiece I remember, to which I apply’d myself zelously, but found it very difficult to commit the lessons he gave me; for I was now in the 20th year of my age. I remember that at the age of 12, I could commit more by heart in the space of an hour than I could now in 24. I remained thus under Mr. Kelly’s instructions until the month of May in 1771, at which time his scholars having abandoned both him and his school, he was obliged to travel to seek out another. In the month of June I went under the care of instructions of Mr. Dennis Molony, native of the City of Limerick, who had been for a long time a profess’d teacher in the Co. of Wexford, in Bantry but had now removed his school near to Gorey where he explain’d the pagan authors to his pupils. Moloney was a man of a sober and facetious temper, loved a glass of beer more than a dinner; I began the low classics under him and tho, I remained untill the month of December in 1773 under his auspices, I protest to you my dear friend, that I left his school with almost as small a share of lattin as I had the day I first entered it; he was famous for prosody, and what is yet strange, tho, he was a very great humanist, he was remarked to never have made others great; he was of an easy mild temper, and never explained a difficulty (which ripens the schoolboy) unless bein asked, and then, only in a very slight manner: I was his favourite, he loved me exceedingly well, and to render him justice he was very willing to help my age to advancement, but he was deficient in his method; my parish priest finding that I made no great progress under him prevailed on me to go to another whose name I recolect was Michael Norris, native of Mitchelstown in the Co. of Cork who at that time profess’d teaching at Tullacanna near Taughmon in the County Wexford, under the portection of Richard Gore, Esq., for Norris was a R. Catholick. I entered his school the 3rd of February in 1774 and began to read over some of the authors I had read before under Mr. Molony; here our lessons were short, and our debates were long. I was immediately smitten and pleased with Mr. Norris’s manner of instruction and harangues, and can avow that I benefited more under him in the space of five months and half, than I had since the commencement with Kelly and Molony. I had another advantage also in this school; for the mathematics were profess’d by a very learned mathematician named James O’Mara, by which means of cronecis’d ideas of several things, which were of some service to me for long after. Here I exercised my tallents, sometimes composing songs and verses for the schoolboys and for the fairer sex; translating some of the odes of horrace in to verse, and several other pieces of less account. I was not long here before I came acquainted with a great many; especially with the people of the first class, in that part of Bargy, and with several in the barrony of forsh. My songs and verses spread abroad and were sung with pleasure for long after, I was loved and admired by all who knew me in these parts, and they who only heard of me, sought my acquaintance and company. Moreover, I was not less beloved by the fairer sex in these parts than my school fellows! I oftentimes receiv’d letters of invitation from several of them, who in fine, became jelous with each other, which occasion’d me to carry a plurality of strings to my bow. Whilst I was in this part of the country, I was, I might say, in a terrestrial paradise; for they pushed their goodness so far as to offer me their purses, and what is more, their persons if I will’d to accept of either or both. I was, I must own, greatly smitten by one in particular, who had a great share of wit and beauty, which were embelished with several other good virtues and quallities so as to captivate me; but unfortunately, she had a former lover whom I knew doted on her charms, and he being my intimate friend, I had not the heart to become his rival, upon which I declined that party. …….
‘Twas now the 16th of July, at which time, I was in the height of my plesures and esteem in these parts, when my brother came for me with a pair of horses, and a letter from my parish priest which was written in the following manner …….
Sir ….
I have this day received Doctor Sweetman’s letter in your favour, he ordered me to prepare you for ordination, which will be very soon; I therefore advise you to return home; after which I’ll go and present you to his Lordship. Fear not, I hope your examen will be light. Let no one be acquainted with the reason of your departure.
I am, Dear Sir, Your very humble
and obedient servant.
at Kilebeg.
July 14. 1774 Edmond Shalloe
Good heaven! at the sight of my brother, I was stunned! I immagined that he was the messenger of some bad or unlucky tidings, without saying much he delivered the aforesaid letter, which when I red I could not forbear myself from tears! my great pain on one side was how I should act without disobedience to my parents, and on the other, how I should part my dear schoolfellows whom I dearly loved, and the sight of so many fine little angels who streniously sought my company. In fine, upon deliberation, I determined to return and having remained two days longer to take a full leave of my acquaintances and companions, I set off for Anagh the place of my byrth, and coming to Eniscorthy, I proposed to my brother to take refreshments, and hear mass, for I remember ’twas Sunday; to which he agreed – being arriv’d, we set up at avery good Inn, and after hearing mass, we return’d to refresh oruselves; whilst our hosts prepared some mutton chops for us, we were taking a glass of beer in a front appartment and by chance I cast my eye into the street and who should I see but my father and my brother-inlaw riding very smart whom I pursued, and having overtaken them e’er they had gone far, they returned with me to the Inn where we all four dined together, having demand’d the course of his journey either and wheither they were bound. They answered me that they came in quest of me, thinking that some accident had befallen me on account of the extroardinary delay I made with my acquaintances and companions, which I immagined to be the true cause; but behold I was mistaken: you’ll observe, my dear friend that about a month before, I met with an acquaintance in Bargy who had pass’d soem day there seeing his friends and being inform’d in a jocoss manner of my amours and, he on his return to Gorey met with my father and told him what he had seen me at such a place and time; that I was well, adding with all that I was to be married ver probably in a short time to Miss N: my father, at the time of such a false narration thought no longer and justly on that, supposing it for plaisantry, but on my abscence, it awalk’d in his mind, adn immagined it for a fact; tho’ he never since spoke to me about it, yet my brotherinlaw, to whom he communicated his mind, inform’d me. All being now well, we rode home, and after the expiration of a few days, my father went with me alont to Wexford, and presented me to his Lordship, who received me with a great deal of tender affection and having been inform’d of the time of ordination, by his Lordship, and of all things necesary for that end, I returned back with my father, an din a very short time I was instructed in my office by Mr. Shalloe. ……
I was by this time in the 24th year of my age and in the vigour of my youth; my vocation for the Church was in the beginning very steadfast; but by this time, it was somewhat shaken. Moreover, my time had been idly spent, my education had now cost my father a very considerable sum; but I must render him justice; he promised me to never give me a blush or a frown for what he had lost by my education, if I would only content to remain with him; for your are to understand, that he never approved much of my proceedings for the Church; tho, at the same time he left me to my own will; I always perceived him to will my declination on the contrary; I remember that when I was parting him going to the ordination, that he declared himself in aforesaid manner and many other times prior to that.
‘Twas now October 22nd when I parted for Wexford where I arriv’d in a few hours, and set up at the Widow Coney’s in John Street according to His Lordship’s orders; I was the first that arrived here, of 11 that were destined for ordination. On teh 23, early in the morning I received the minor orders, and that of subdeaconship in my Lord’s Chamber with the other 10 young men, on the 28 the order of Deaconship, and on the 30 the Order of Priesthood. Having left Wexford on the 1st of November, I went with the Rever’d William Brennan to one of his Chappels where I heard mass, after which I returned to Castlebridge to meet him, but being disappoint’d, I rode to Anagh that afternoon which was 20 miles, the ground was covered with snow, and the weather very severe, by which means I got a great cold upon which to hinder its progress from a pleuresey I let blood; at night in bed my arm got loose and my blood flow’d in abundance e’er I perceived it; feint by the loss of blood awakened me in some manner, and perceiving the sheets wet, I cry’d out for assistance to my brother who lay in the same chamber, who immediately came to my succour with a light and tied up my arm, and in a short time after I recouvered my strength and former health ……
I was no sooner arrived from Wexford than I found a very pathetic letter from Dublin, which came by post, from a young lady, one of my former acquaintances, but now ’twas too late to revoke; I was already bound and bade adieu to all such proceedings. In this my prest state I remained at home, and visiting my parish priest who instructed me in the ceremonies of mass till at length perfected. I rode to Wexford to obtain leave from his Lordship for celebrating mass, which he grant’d for a month only. On my return, a day was prefix’d for celebrating my first at my fathers, at which a great many gentlemen and friends assisted, which happened on the 11th of December. I remained afterwards at home and visiting my friends, untill the 2nd of May in 1775 when I set out for Dublin, in order to go to france to perform my studies. Having taken leave of my parents and friends about 8 o’clock, I arrived at 7 in the aft. in Dublin and lay that night at the Widow Kenedy’s in Keven Street. On the 3rd at 4 in the morning I was awarned by a Jacobin fryar named Mylar, a cityzen of Dublin. This gentleman tho, I had not the hon! of being over acquainted with him, heal’d me with a good share of palliteness, brought me to his room and afterwards ushered me down to George’s Quay to Mr. Luke O’Reily’s at the Dolphin, No. 30, who receiv’d me very amicably and his wife who’s my cousin Germain – in fine, I remained with them during my stay in town, which was not long ……
I have here my dear friend given you but a small and short account of my life untill the prest period. ‘Twould be too long for me to write and too wearysome for you to read the several other events of my life hitherto, let it content you, and consoal me that I never offend’d nor violated any person whatsoever, that I was always dutiful to my parents and paid them due respect as far as my knowledge dictated to me. I had several amours since the age of 18 untill near the prest. I frequent’d assemblies often for my recreation. I play’d fives, hurl’d in matches and in football and by times, and never receiv’d the least hurt. I took an angling rod sometimes and caught the fenny fry on which I took great delight; and in some mechanical branches I was not less deficient. In fine, I had the suffrages of all who knew me, whose prayers and good wishes I hope have been often of service to me. Here now before I change climate, I must acquaint you that I lost a dear and lenient parent at the age of 7 who was succeed’d by another, one of the best stepmothers on earth, her abillities and condition considered. I mean not here to dwell on drifting subjects which are not worth the recitation but I am already fixed and prepared for changing climate so I shall further proceed and give you an account of my travels and adventures hereafter, in the best and truest manner I possibly can.
1775 Saturday May the 6th at 4 in the afternoon I sailed out of the port of Dublin on board the Mary of Dublin, Captain John Synnott Commander, and Robert Fanning Mate, bound for the port of Rochefort. By 6 o’clock we were advanced almot near Wicklow bay, when the wind varied and came right against our course,which obliged us to return back and by some difficulty we made good the harbour of Dublin, where we came to an anchor. I went on shore late in the evening with the captain and a passenger whose name I think was Oddebung a citizen fo Bordeaux, and coming up to the city near 9 o’clock I lay at Mr. O’Reily’s that night….
I heard mass at Lazor-hill Chappel and in the aft. Mr. James Casey conducted me to the university, where I saw a great many curiosities. About 10 at night I returned on board with Captain Synnott.
At 3 in the morning we weighed anchor and put again to sea, the wind being then favourable and the gale pleasant; when we were right off Wicklow the wind changed of a sunden by which means we came to an anchor in the bay not far from the bar. Here we lay untill Wednesday 10th at 3 in the morning; the wind having changed to N. by W. we weighed anchors and hoised up sail, the breeze being delightful and the day no loss. At 6 in the aft. we pass’d by the rock of Tuskard; thus our Mary plow’d the deep under well fill’d sails so as that on the 15th I was put on shore on the S. side of Rochefort River nam’d the Charente, about 5 miles from the town at a place I think named Alloron, well fortify’d, having a strong battery and fortification. At a small distance lower down where the river looses itself in the ocean, I saw the ruins of a fort which was demolished by the English in the war of 1758 ….. I being now put on shore with the french passenger, we walked to a ferry which is about two English miles from the town, where we were delay’d for half an hour before we got a passage after which we walked to the town where we put up at the White Cross “a la croix blanche, chez Monsr. Duvall”, having order’d a bottle of wine to refresh ourselves for the aft. was very warm. We invited a gented yewman who had paid our passage for us (as we had no french coin) to take part of it, but were surprised to find him refuse us of either receiving the money back, which our new landlord gave us, or of accepting of a glass of wine, so after thanking him for his polliteness he part’d and went about his own affairs. My companion after we had refreshed ourselved conducted me to the Hotel of Mr. Daniel Charrier who treated me with uncommon polliteness; Mr. Charrier is a rich negotient and hugonot by profession, married to an English woman, who did not treat me with less kindness than her husband. She invited me to take tea with her which I accepted, after which her husband gave me french coin for 3 and a half guineas which might serve me to Nantes, and her eldest son heir of his father’s name, a fine young man who in his minority was bred up in England, where he acquired the English tongue, paid me a great deal of polliteness and civility, conducted me throughout the town to show me the curiosities, among many are the ort, the king’s docks, 5 or 6 ships of line, a very magnificent hospital, and the play-house, which tho small is very handsome and an embelishment to the town, to the construction of which , his father was a subscriber of 500 , Sterl. This young man, moreover, sent my trunk to Nantes by water, which soct me but a crown freight, and 36 sols for examination at the custom house, and for sealing it afterwards with the king’s arms in lead. He was nothing less attractive in procuring me a place in the stage coach for Rochelle. In fine, having thanked him the eve of my departure for his goodness and bounty, I returned to the White Cross where I supped and lay. Before I leave this town, I must inform you that I saw the Cheries ripe the day of my arrival, and the jolly sythe’sman cuting down the grapes by the river’s side. Rochefort is a very handsome town, considerably large; the streets are streight as aline and wide withal, paved with square stones of about 5 inches. The town is wall’d, and well fortify’d …..
I was since informed that Mr. Charrier Junior abjured and renounced against the reformed religion, and embraced the tenets of the R. Catholic Church.
1775 May 18 At 6 o’clock this morning I mounted in the stage coach and set out for Rochelle, where I arrived at 3 in the aft., and being conducted to madam Taberac’s house, I remained with her during my stay in this town. You’ll observe that madam Taberac was born in Dublin, and at the age of 11 years she came to france and by ths time had almost forgotten her mother tongue. However, she was not less careful of my welfare than as my other good friend, when she found I was an Irishman, and lost no time to render me service. Like a true friend she went with me to teh messenger’s post, where she procured a horse to carry me to Nantes and contract’d with the post master to pay for my dinner, super and bed to Nantes (as not knowing the french tongue) for the sum of 27 Livres 6 Sols which I paid in ready cash and rec’d billets to leave at each stage on the road where I was to set up and this being done, she walk’d in town with me and showed me the curiosities and her bill was not very extraordinary, having charged me only a crown for four repasts. The greatest curiosity I saw in this town was a collection of shells of various forms and dies, belonging to her son-in-law which he valued to a very considerable sum.
1775 May 20 At 5 o’clock this morning I left Rochelle not mount’d to my pleasure and rode off for Nantes, where I arrived on the 22 at 3 in the aft. an dcoming to the Irish seminary I was received as a subject by Doctr. Daniel O’Byrne rector of said seminary. Here I remained without saying mass untill the 2nd of June, and on the 11th I was admitted to celebrate for the first time in the Chappel so universally known by the name of Bon Secour, that is to say, the Cappel dedicated to our Lady of good succour. From the prest period untill the opening of the class’s, I was for the most part very idle, read nothing besides my office, but a few conferences in the Catechism, which was held every Sunday Evening, by Thomas Fallen Doctr of Surbonne, from Tuam in the Co. Galway, a very great divine, who before and after for the space of three years professed divinity in this seminary ’till in february in 1777 when he returned to Ireland, and was greatly regreted by his scholars.
The class’s opened the first Monday after all Saints at which time I began my philosphy under Tadg O’flinn, native of the City of Limmerick under whose auspices I remain’d untill the time of Mr. fallen’s departure, when Mr. O’flinn occupyed his chair, and that of the latter by Mr. James Lannegan, subject of the Diocese of Ossory, Batchelor Licentiate of the the Sacred faculty of Nantes, a profound physician and schollar under whom I finished my course of philosophy. At the expiration of vocation the same year, I entered the class of divinity under Doctor O’flinn; I remember the treatise was on the Church which he dictated rapidly so that a great many of his schollars were oftentimes deficient in penning all that was dictated. Thus we spent the time on the hinge of our lives to answer his expectations untill about the 18th of Decembr. when ’twas ’twas agreed to bar him out, and in order to have a few day of leasure for breathing after our hurry. This was undertaken by the senior subjects which was accordingly executed; and the philosphers done the same with their professor Mr. Lanegan. This action, which in itself was simple and executed with no ill design, became the sourse of disturbance and dissorder, the bane of repose, and many other ill consequences, with which that house was long after injected; these gentlemen professor’s looked on these Characters as Degrad’d, being heated by the action, as red-wigs, or hedge-teachers are wont in Ireland by their scholars on such occasions; for ’twas well known that one of them kept a school in Ireland e’er he came to the Dignity of priesthood. They, thus picqued, Incensed the Superior against the subjects, under the veil of Zeal, for the affront they now had newly received… I remember the first aft. pass’d without class, And the next also; for the subjects locked the doors and bared the windows. In fine Mr. O’flinn went to one of the vicar General’s to whom he made his Complaint in a very odious light by accusing them guilty of rebellion, a title which at that time was very odious throughout all parts of Europe and further which best suited the sticklers for Independance in America. The vicar General came Immediately with him to the seminary and ordered an assembly of the subjects. This Gentleman after a long discourse recommend’d both submission and subjection to our superior and professors, withal adding to attend our class, which was Immediately after observ’d and held to the Eve of Christmas. You might Immagine, my Dr. friend, that all was easy and in a perfect calm by this time; alas! far from that, Envy and revenge still waited for their share; the one hath deep roots, and the other dwells both in the heart and the Brain. There was at that time one Kennedy, a subject of the Diocese of Laughlin and Co. of Kildare or Meath who was the eldest subject of the house by his course of time therin, who during the Christmass vacation employ’d his time writing and planing a petition to the superior, to have Mr. O’flinn Chang’d, and had withal to his aid a Gentleman fo Brighter parts than his Own, whose name I shall not here mention. In fine, the piece was well Drawn up, but at the same time it contained something inveterate against Doctor O’flinn’s Capacity which was very false; a great error! to wit, that his harangues were Incipid, his explination on difficulties and matters of Consequence dry, and remained unravelled adn to conclude, he was represent’d like the fig-tree in the Gosple. Having thus completed his piece of nonsense he communicated it from one subject to an other, beginning with the Gentlemen of his time, and by gradation to the last of the same class, the Momonians only excepted, who then were not very numerous, neither were they acquainted with the subject. All the divines of the other three provinces signed their names to this petition except John Granger from Shillelea in the Diocess of Loughlin. The petition being now signed, he presented ti to Docr. O’Byrne who Immediately inform’d the Bishop of Nantes of an Insurrection of his subjects, at the same time present’d a list of the names of 24 of the subjects to his Lordship in a very bad light, under the name of sewers of Dissention in the society. His Lordship in consequence came in a few days afterwards to the community, and having order’d an assembly of his subjects, preached a long sermon to them in the tongue he best knew, having chosen subordinatio for his text. In fine, of the 24 whch were represented in a bad light by the superior, his Lordship was so Clement as to expell only four of them, whose names I shall her set down: Mr. Kennedy Subject of Loughlin. Mr. Mathew Conlon Subject of Armagh, Mr. Rape Subject I think of Killala, and Mr. John Byrne of the Diocess of Armagh or perhaps Dromore, all four were Interdicted and suspended from exercising any ecclesiastical function in the Diocess of Nantes. As for Mr. Rape, he was very Innocent, had no hand in the plot like a great many others, only just signed his name to the petition. These Gentlemen being thus expell’d, there remain’d as yet Jealousy’s and malcontents between the subjects, officers, and superior. The fermentation of the former troubles still remain’d in the heads and the hearts of the subjects, so that a great many of them could not afterwards for a long time compose their minds to study as before: thus the year passed, and the harvest was not so abundantly teeming as ’twere to be expected …..
1778 Decemr. 7 Doctor O’Byrne our superior, was seized this day all on a sudden by a paralitic fit, of whic he died the 23 at 10 in the aft. after being Superior of the Irish Seminary for the space of 27 or 28 years, which he Governed with prudence – we Enterred him in the parish Church of St. Nicholas on the 24th. His Death was greatly Lament’d by the greater part of his subjects, and by persons of the first rank and Condition in the City of Nantes. The Government of the subjects was now consigned to the care of Richard Mansfield from the Diocese of Ossory, who had been then for the term of 7 years in teh Employment of procurer of syndic for the house. Mr. Mansfield was a man of an excellent Character, and of an admirable sweetness, who by all his actions acquired the affectio nand goodwill of the subjects and now being Vice-Gerent by the Bishop’s orders, ’twas moved among the subjects after some time to postulate for having him named superior. For that end, the subjects of the house unanimously wrote to their respective bishops postulating their succours, with that of Doctor Carpenter. Arch-bishop of dublin to whom they sent a petition in particular, signed by all the subjects of Lienster postulating his succour with the Bishop of Nantes to name Mr. Mansfield Superior; all which was effected in the month of March or in April 1779. Accordingly, Doctr. Carpenter postulated the Bishop of Nantes by a letter to name Mr. Mansfield superior, but his letter came to late; for the Bishop of Nantes was afer making a promise of the government of the Irish Seminary to Mr. John Walsh, Docr. of surbonne from the Diocese of Kerry, which he obtain’d by letters of recommendation and the first promise in consequence took place. Mr. Mansfield finding he had no longer hopes for that Important Charge to which he Consent’d by the unanimous voice of the subjects, settled the books of the house, and part’d for Ireland by way of paris and London the 30th of April in 1779. Accompanied by Mr. James Lanegan and Mr. patrick Grady who had been sacristain some time for the house, all three subjects of the Diocese of Ossory. The Charge of the house was then left to Doctr. O’flinn which he bore untill the arrival of Mr. Walsh from paris, which happened the 14th of May …. Mr. Walsh being now arrived, things began to Change! a new Legislator, in Consequence new laws, which were now daily made and daily abolished. This new legislator began his reign by abrogating the permanent good laws hitherto of his predicessor and Instituting new ones in their place which he himself violated daily and abolish’d. His next step was as follows. He persecuted the subjects of the fourth and fifth year’s time in the house, depriv’d the most part of them of their Country places which he gave to the subjects of the first, 2nd and 3 year’s time in the house. By this means he rendered himself odious to the whole house and nothing less to those who only heard of his ill and unjust treatment to his subjects. He not only deprived several of their just temporal right in the aforesaid manner, but even scandalized a great many in publick oratory for very slight faults, which would have been overlooked by a more judicious man. The subjects thus tyrannized and harrass’d by his Cruelty began to fly the house and seek repose! Those who spent but a month under his aweful auspices Immagined they spent 7 years! and in fine, the house began to Dwindle under him in a very miserable manner. Some fled to french Communities to finish their studies sooner than remain longer under a tyrant: others fled to the Country, where they became Vicars and Chaplains — I was myself now by preference the first for a Country place, when the Marquis of Lambilly writ to the house for a Chaplain which I accepted, tho, with regret, as being about 35 leagues from Nantes in Low Brittany, and having offered it to some of my Contemporaries who refus’d accepting of it, I prepared myself and accordingly left Nantes the next day being the 1th of June, and parted for Korgrois, mounted on a good steed, and arriving at pontchateau I lay at the sign of the pellican. The next day I arriv’d at Vannes about 4 in the aft. where I left my horse and from thence I rode post to L’omines, from thence again to Korgrois in the parish of Remongol. Kergroisis a Country seat belonging to the Marquis of Lambilly where I first came acquaint’d with that family, which at that time Consist’d of the Marquis, my Lady and two young Demoifelles. Here I remained Very happy and in good health untill the 15th of Aug! at which time I began to perceive a violent head-ach whic continued daily untill the 20th of said month, when it declared itself for a tertian ague and very violent. My Lady sent Immediately to pontisry for some physics which I took and three oz. of Kina and Kankina which I took thrice each day and underwent a regimen of 40 days abstaining from all sorts of fruits. i had not been ill above 10 day with that excerable sickness when I ceas’d from trembling and being four days exempt from it, when one aftn. I went to walk, and know not by what chance I went into an Orchard where I perceiv’d a very beautiful apple pending from a bough about the size of a wallnut, which I plucked and having cut it into two equal parts I chewed one half only and swallow’d the juice and cast the remaining particles away. I can assure you, my Dr. friend, that I had the ague more violent the next day than ever before, and what was still worse, I trembled by it daily for sveral days after. I was soon afterwards convenced how dear my curiosity cost me, but alas to late: I reflected on the action of our first parents with the forbidden fruit of Eden. ‘Tis bad and sometimes unlucky to be presumptious. I know not what induced me to taste of the fruit unless ’twas to seek moisture for my mouth. I can assure you once more, that I had pass’d many time before through fruit gardens without even seeming to take notice of their fruits; but this time alone because ’twas forbiden, I could not escape! a Certain proof of man’s weakness, frailty and corruption of fallen nature. I was in better health towards the end of Octr. Yet I had some remains of the fever left me in my bones and joints, but in particlar, I was often torment’d with Cramps at night in my bed, and a heacach which always remain’d. In fine, after passing 6 months in this agreeable family, they returned to the City of Rennes to pass the Winter, for ’tis the ordinary of people of Distinction in france to spend the winter in Town; In Consequence they had no longer use of the functions of a Chaplain untill the next Campaign. I was by this time almost weary of the Country, in which particular I enjoy’d bad health, and was greatly rejoiced that the Campaign was at an end. In fine, we set off for Rennes by post the 17th of Decemr. and lay that night chez Monsieur de L’eseoitin the town of Joscelin. Next morning we part’d very early again by post and dined at a small town named Plelan, and having taken post here again, we arriv’d in Rennes at 4 and a half in the aft, having left the marquis behind us who lay at Lambilly near ploermel the last night. On our entering the City, the people assembled on each side of th streets, to the doors and windows making a great clamour by Huzza’s and shouts In the following manner: “Vive le Roi, et Monsieur le Compt D’eftaing”. You must observe, that Monsr. D’eftaing had just arrived in town a moment before us from Brest after his return Savanah where he was wound’d, and now on his way to Versailles to render an acct. of hi smission. His Carriage was drawn by 6 horses only and ours by 8 which thus deceived the populace, we being now rendered at our City House or hotel in George’s house, which part’d for Nantes at 4 in the morning on the 21. Whilst I remained in Rennes, I employ’d my time in viewing the town and its Curiosities. The Bishop’s palace, the Churches, the Convents, and the Grotto in the Capucin’s Garden and such like. I being now in the Stage Coach we set off, but the roads were at that time so deep that we made but 6 Leagues that day. In fine, I arrived in Nantes on the 23rd at 3 in the aft. and coming to the Irish Seminary, I was carress’d by all my acquaintances most affectionately. I was now after the fataigue of travelling and the relicks of the fever which as yet remained, but very delicate. The air of Nantes soon revived me and I daily enjoy’d better health.
I was now once more rendered under the auspices of a tyrant, my superior, and as I remember, that according to the former Constitutions of the house I was Intitled to a Condition in the Country by my right of the house untill the first of the ensuing November. Thus the day after my arrival, there was a Lady in the parish of Vertou who wanted a priest to give her mass on Sundays and holy-days for two months to whic I laid claim as my just right, but my good superior hindered me from benefiting so far. His reason for so doing was, becasue I did not return from where I was in the Country to Nantes, and preach a sermon in the town the day prefix’d on the Chart. You must here observe that ’twas he who forced me to go to the Country by saying that If I would not accept of it, I should have no other place. In my absence there, he made a law, that all those who were at vacations would not return to the seminary and preach their sermons, each on his appointed day, should be no longer intitled to any further accruing benefit of the house. I, who was the first on the List, did not hear of these new laws for long after; at which time I had an ague, moreover to return to Nantes and go back again to the Country ‘twould have cost me no less than 4 Guineas. By what I here attest for truth, there’s no one but sees Mr. Walsh’s Injustice in his treatment towards me, which did not end here alone: when class opened aft. the vacation of Christmass, I pursued my studies for ’twas my last year. In the month of february, another condition came to the house to which I laid claim as my just right, but he again refused me, upon which I told him before the assembly at Class, that I would Inform my Bishop of his Injust treatment to his subject, which I did accordingly execute in a few days after. in a short Interval after he admitted me to take a place of which I benefited but very little. Thus, I pass’d the Spring until the 20th of April close to my studies. Mr. Walsh was now in paris Since Easter, and at his parting he appointed Nicholas O’Riordan his vice-gerent, who then was Professor of philosophy. On the 12th of April the Marquis of Lambilly’s Mother died in her hotel in Rennes, in Dauphin Street, upon which the Marquis who was sole heir Invest’d himself in Consequence of all her rights and appendages; for said end and to set on business in the Country his presence was very necessary. He wrote to me to return in consequence If I was pleased and at this Interval the superior had written from paris to O’Riordan not to give me a permanent place, nor none except that of Lambilly where I before had been. Necessity the great spur of many, made me accept of this place where I was already belov’d and cherished so leaving Nantes the
26th of April 1780 I part’d for Kergrois again by way of Vannes in Company with Mr. Clench from the Diocese of Meath, who was going to Lorient to Embark in quallity of Chaplain on Board the frigate named the Artois of 60 Guns, Command’d by the Chevalier de Clonard. Having taken our places in the Dilligence of Nantes (a name given to a confound’d machine whose motion was so slow as that we might count the wheel nails as it went) we arriv’d at pontchateau in the Evening where we supped and lay that night. Next day we Dined at Roachbernard where our Delligence was shattered to pieces. Our money was already paid in Nantes for the service of this Confound’d phaeton, and being eager to render ourselves at our destination we applyed to the sovereign of the town to render us justice for the expences which this delay might occasion, or order a Reimbursement for the Congruous for the rest of the way to Vannes and this our sovereign whom you might at once call “a Lord and a nothing”, gave us no great encouragment on the prest case, which was mow laid before him: I said, yoiu might call him a lord: yes, for he had a broken back and was withal one of the most deform’d objects in nature to the eye; and as to science he knew nothing, so that you might justly call him a sort of Deformed brute animal and lastly a nothing. Having at length receiv’d no favourable answer from my Lord, we Consented to walk to Vannes, and having cross’d the River Villaine which was very rough and stormy that aft. we walked to Muzilac where we lay and were pollitely treated. The next day we walked to Vannes and Dined at the Golden Lion, after which I gave my Companion the parting bottle of good Bordeaux red, and after we had drank it, I wish’d him success and a good journey, and so part’d for L’oemine or L’amine on foot, where I arrived about 8 o’clock Chez Monsieur Labbe Richard who gave me a good supper; after which I lay at the Cheval blanc, or white horse. The next day being the 29 of April, I went to K/grois where I was Informed that the family was not as yet arrived from Rennes. I lay there that night and next day I returned to L’amine, where I took horse for Lambilly a country seat belonging to the Marquis of Lambilly, situated in view of the town of Ploermel in high Brittany and Diocese of St. Malo on my arrival there, I found that the family were still at Rennes. In fine on the 2nd of May they arrived here with whom I pass’d my time very agreeably and In the first week of June, we left Lambilly and went to Kergrois where we Remained untill the month of Aug! Here, about the 7 of July, the Marquis’s Eldest son, Count of Lambilly and the Chevallier his Brother both officers in the Gardes francoise came to visit their parents having permission for a retreat of 9 months. These Gentlemen in a very short time became very ford of me, and their sister Miss Mary Victoire no less, to whom I gave lessons the last year and at prest in the English tongue, and by this time Could write it tollerably well. Young Lady was the greatest wit I ever was acquainted with : she might and well deserv’d the name of a second Heloise for her wit: nothing was Difficult to her Genious, her memory was strong and lasting, she could repeat a thousand words after a slight reading and more than one hundred lines of Popes Verse by heart after a perusal of 10 minutes, without a fault. She Dearly loved foreign tongues, but in particular the English and Italian. She was not less deficient in other sciences having already learnt Arithmetick, Geometry, the use of the Globes and Cahrts, Geography and musick, the art of Designing and drawing now in the 14 year of her age and the Low Bretton tongue withal. In fine, you might justly call her the phenix of Learning and her beauty was not to be Despised; her other good quallities and virtues made her to be admired by all who know her and by those who only heard of her tallents. I remember that I went on the 21st of June to pontivy to see some English prisoners who were to halt there for one night, as they were conducted from Lorient to Dinan, where they were destined for Imprisonment having Convers’d a few minutes with these Gentlemen I was inform’d that there was a Cousing Germain of mine in the society from the town of Wexford, upon finding him, I gave him and some of his Comrades half a Dozen of Bordeaux wine and at parting a french Crown. In a short time after, I sent him a Guinea to Dinan prison which he receiv’d and in Consequence sent me a letter of thanks for my services. ‘Tis now time to return to my Intend’d subject. We at length returned to Lambilly the 4th of Augt. where we pass’d our time very agreeably untill about the beginning of October, when we returned again to Kergrois to receive the rents. About the 18 of this month my Lady prayed me to take horse and accompany her son the Chevallier to L’orient in Order to see the port, Port Louis, Citadel and the Curiosities of them places and having freely aquiesceed to my Lady’s desire I accompanied the young Chevallier with Monsieur Serriere who was then our steward or Intendant, who since became publican in Rennes and kept the sign of the white Lamb. On our travels to L’orient we met with no accident except that Monsieur Serriere’s horse who like a good devout Catholick Christian went once on his knees and overset his rider near the town of Baud. On our arrival in L’orient we put up at the Cheval blanc or white horse, and saw a Considerable part of the Town that evening. The next day it rained prodigious heavy all the forenoon And after Dinner we engaged a boat for port Louis; on our arrival there the young Chevalier prosented himself to the Commandant major who gave him and his Companions a pass port to see the port and Cittadel and which having sufficiently view’d, we Embarked again for Lorient, and having an American passenger in the boat, the owners were paid for puting him on board a frigate which lay at anchor in the road. When we came a long side the firgate, the american Invited us to go on board, telling us that he would go to town immediately after with us. To this we acquiesced and were scarce got under Deck before the boatmen put off, and left us all there without once giving us notice. We were no soonery between decks than we were Introduced to the Captain in his Cabbin whose name I think was Jackson who generously offer’d us wine and liquors, but we contented ourselves by tasting of his wine only. We were not above three minutes in the Cabin before we were informed that the boat had put off and left us in the Lurch. The Capn. seeing our uneasiness Consoal’d us somewhat by a hearty supper and a glass of punch. ‘Twas by this time 8 o’clock, and he would not venture to send his boat with us to Lorient after said hour, as ’twas contrary to the Ordinance of the port, besides the gates of the port were shut up. In fine, there came a Capn. of another frigate on board enquiring after soem of his saillors who had Deserted him, and not finding them here, he Conclud’d that they went on board with the Renown’d Paul Jones, who at that time lay also at anchor in the road. So taking leave of the Captain and officers, he took us in his boat and put us on shore. The night I remember was very dark, and we were greatly distress’d. Making our way through mire, fens and marshes, being sometimes up to the belt in sloughs, till at length by great difficulty and fataigue we arrived on sollid ground. Thus after a round of more than two miles we Gained the town gate on the mainroad from hennebond. It being now past 10 o’clock when we came to the town gate the Centinel refused us Entrance untill the arrival of the Currier whom we heard Cracking his whip at half a mile distance. On his being admitted, so we were in like manner, and Coming to our Inn, we wree not a little suprised to find that our beds were occupy’d by the Count of xxx , his Lady and retinue who were then newly married. However, they procured us others and a fire to warm us, for we were in a sad pickle after wading through the fens and marshes. The next day, being friday I remember, we arose and went to see the magazines. The port, Docks, Cordery and after which we returned to the Inn at 11 o’clock, where we made a sort of Dinner and breakfast at once, on oysters, bread, butter, pepper and good Bordeaux white wine. My young officer eat a Considerable quantity of the oysters, perhaps two or 3 hundreds, after which we paid our bill and left L’orient at 12 o’clock and rode to Hennebond, where we halted at the Golden Lion to refresh both ourselves and our horses. After an hour’s delay here, we rode to Beaud where we took a snack at a Principal Inn in Company
with Monsr. du Porc attorney in that town. As ’twas now late, so we made no great delay, but rode off for Kergrois which is 4 leagues from Beaud. We had not rode above a league before my young Chevalier began to complain that his jack-boots hurt him. Having a light’d from his horse he took his buckles out of his shoes and mount’d again, but e’er we went a mile further, he began to Complain of being sick. We ere now on the side of a mountain named Maneguin, where my young Chevalier descend’d again from his horse and throwing himself down on the brink of the road and swoaring that he was almost dead. The night was so very dark, that I could not see him, but the lustre of his uniform and the hilt of his sword inform’d me where he lay; thus having come to his succour with all speed I found him motionless which surprised me greatly. However, I raised him up Immediately between my arms, and in a manner so quick that the sudden motion made him Vomit, having had an Indigestion after his Oysters. The efforts which he made to relieve his stomach made him spring by the back door and finding himself somewhat Laxative in that passage he pray’d me to support him as being rendered so feeble by the fataigue of vomiting so that his hams were not able to keep him in a proper medium of attitude to perform th efunctions of nature, which were now before and aft. as quick as gun powder. Having rendered him the service required, upon mounting up his small cloaths or , he perceived by the back of his hands that he had defoiled it, which made him cry out to me in a loud voice: “oh parbleau, mon cher abbe, je ma balotte”! That is to say; by Jove my dear abbe or priest, I my . Hearing him thus express himself, I was obleidged to laugh and strove to diswade him by saying that it could not be probable. He on the contrary insisted and persevered to inform me that I was mistaken by stretching his hand which was all near my nose, saying: “Senter done, mon cher abbe: that is, dear abbe. Having wiped himself in the best manner he could wish proper and which I procured for him, for there near us. I mounted him on his horse and so rode off. Being recouver’d in a short time after he made me Crack my ribs by the force of laughter, by hsi frequent of “Senter done mon cher abbe” and of all that held him, which afterwards repeated with seeming plaisure. After our arrival at Kergrois he inform’d his sister and the waiting maids of all that happen’d. No one could be possessed of better quallities than this young man. He loved better than he loved his nearest of kin, and I assure you, that I loved him extreamly well.
Having remain’d here and pass’d the time very agreeably untill the 28th of December at which time we removed to Lambilly
where I was not long before I received a letter from the Rev’d Michael Redmond of the Diocess of Fernes and then in the Irish seminary, which inform’d me that there was an English Cartel ship at Paimboeuf, which would take passengers. Upon this news I determined myself to go to Nantes and benefit of the opportunity for to render myself in my native Country. The Marquis and his Lady greatly regretted my Departure, and their Children also, who wept bitterly …..
1781 Febr. 2 At 7o’clock this morning I took leave of the family, and being well mounted. I rode to Maletroit, where I dined at the sign of the green Cross, having here refreshed both myself and my horse, I rode to the town of Rhedon Situated on teh River Villaine where I supped and lay at the Golden Lion, in which I receiv’d both good usage and polliteness. On the 3rd I left Rhedon early in the morning and after passing through extensive fruitless glebes and plains, I at length arrived at a small town named Bain where I made but a very ordinary diner for which I paid 3 livr. and 12 sols and 12 sols for my horse. In fine, I arriv’d at the Irish seminary about 4 in the aft. where I pensioned three days Successively, and lay Chez Monsieur Rainbeau wine merchant, contiguious to the seminary, with whom I pensioned afterwards during my stay in Nantes.
About the 12th of this month I paid Mr. Johm Williams Capn. of the Mary, a Chepster brigg, 5 Guineas for a passage to Chepster or any other port of England more Convenient for my Destination, if time and place would admit. He was according to agreement to furnish me with meat, drink and a bed and on the same Conditions, Mr. Martin Cullen and Mr. Redmond both of the Diocese of fernes and Mr. John Denn from the Diocese of Ossory paid him in like manner 5 Guineas each. Here we remained untill the 17the of February at two in the aft. when we Embark’d on board a boat which the Capn. hired to row us down the River Loire to Paimboeuf, about three leagues lower than nantes. We halted at an Island on which there was a new foundery lately erected by order of his Majesty and perfected by a famous Engineer named Wilkenson by byrth and Englishman. The Cap. you must observe had affairs to settle with the master of this place for Broken mettal, pipes and cillinders which he brought over from England in the name of Ballast; the pipes and Cillinders were ’tis true designed for the use of a coal mine which was lately Discouvered in Brittony or near its Invirons, to boil off its waters. This may seem strange to many, notwithstanding ’tis fact: I saw and read his papers and commission which I looked upon to have been falsified. How-beit that did not regard me so much as it did the state.
Affairs being settled there, we put too again, tho, the wind and tide were both against us. About 10 at night we arrived at a little Creek where we went a shore and refreshed ourselves, for ’twas very Cold. Having warmed and refreshed ourselves there, we put too again and by 3 o’clock in the morning we got on board the mary in the River at Paimboeuf. Being now on board, we all became dull and drowsy. The want of rest and the fatigue of rowing, (to keep me warm) left me both sore and drowsy, so that I never remember to have been in so sad a Condition before in my life. The 18 we went to paimboeuf where we took lodgings and pension untill the Capn. would be ready to sail. Here, we bought Mattress’d and Covering for ourselves, as the Capn. had deceiv’d us. He had our money in his pocket and he left us to chuse to go or stay; but in the mean time no beds for our use. “The Captain having received his prisoners on board and all things in Readiness, he gave orders to weigh anchors; whilst the saillors were thus Employ’d, Mr. Noel Brown and Mr. James Connoughan priests from the province of Ulster and diocese of Rappo, I think arrived from Nantes and Demand’d the Capn. for a passage, which he granted them after they had advanced him 10 Guineas. Immediately after, he Commisioned Mr. Noel Brown to go to paimboeuf And buy some firkins of Brandy, but before he had time to return on board we got the ship (or mary) under way and sailed off. Mr. Green an Irish-man Capn. of an american frigate of 40 Guns which rode at anchor same time at paimboeuf, seeing that mr. Brown was in danger of Loofing hs passage sen this long boat well maned after the Mary to put him on board. I remember, that we gain’d very fast on the boat which the Capn. having perceiv’d ordered to lower the main topsoil, and by this means, the boat soon came along side of us, and put Mr. Brown on board and 3 firkins of Brandy, one of which was to the Account of us 6 Irish-priests. Mr. Brown was no sooner on board the Brigg than he gratify’d Mr. Green’s men handsomely by giving them three french Crowns, and many obligations for mr. Green by way of Compliment. We had at this time a french pilot on board, who near Sun-set attempted to make off in his boat, but the Capn. hindered him from going that night, and tought proper and prudent to lye at anchor under the shelter of Bellisle which he accordingly did. The next morning being fair weather, and the wind favourable, we hoised up our sails, and sent the pilot ashore in a little Creek on the W of the island. Our Men being returned on board, we hoised up the boat, and more Cloaths on the Mary. On our passing through the bay we met with nothing but some neutral Craft, except one Holland Brigg which Changed her Course having immagined us for an armed ship. On the fourth night after our leaving Belleisle we fell in the midst of an English Convoy and 7 men of war off the Lizard point, going to the Islands: without being perceived. In fine, we were driven by Contrary winds right opposite Ireland, but the wind coming fair we made 14 knots per hour and in this speed, we pass’d by the land’s End, the Edistone light, and so down to Darmougth bay, where we arrived near 10 o’clock at night on the 24th. You may perhaps here be surprised why we made this course as being at the same time bound for Chepster; but after you’ll hear the reason I hope you’ll be satisfied. You must observe my Dr. friend, that w eha d132 prisoners on board, of whom a part were the Crew of an arm’d ship or privateer belonging to Darmouth or perhaps Yarmought, and the rest were the Crew of a Guernsey Luggar Command’d by one Ansley a Confound’d keen rogue, and the former by Capn. Blackstone and Excellent good fellow and a good seaman, on the 22nd early in teh morn, after leaving bellisle, our Cap. went on Deck to see the ship’s course and make his observations, but before he had time to execute either, one of the Guernsey saillors drew his knife and desired the brigg to descend to his Cabbin, adding, that he knew how to Conduct a ship as well as he the brigg! Cap. Williams being thus menaced, descend’d to the Cabbin and demand’d of Mr. Blackstone and Mr. Ansley if they Command’d his brigg? They replyed in the negative and seem’d dissatisfied at the proposition. The Capn. having count’d over the treatment he had just receiv’d, demanded absolute Command for himself or at least for themselves. They replyed again that they were no longer masters of them men, as having no commission over them, neither would they ansr. for the faults of the saillors, nor for the Brigg in case of accident or Danger by their means. Thus these Infernal rogues Conducted the brigg into Darmought bay where they thought to go on shore, but finding that the large boat was leaky and unfit to go on water, they were here disappointed. Moreover the wind began to freshen and the night to threaten something grieveous! ‘Twas at length after a long debate agreed to make way for the port of Guernsey which was accordingly undertaken. We had a very rude night of it, rowling in a shocking manner as we lay too close under the wind. Very early the next morning which was the 25th we had view of the Island of Guernsey, and about 8 o’clock a storm began to rise which in a short time drove us down near the Island and just near a Chain of Rocks which may be seen in Calm weather at low water. Capn. Williams by this time seeing the near danger we were of being beaten to pieces against these rocks cryed out to Ansley to let him have the Command for a moment, which he took Immediately. To advance now towards the rocks, we all would have Infallibly perished; and to return backwards and weather the point of the Island was the great Difficulty now debated, being in a Laborinth by the ill conduct of Ansley or Ansey, and the actual position of the wind, which blew with rage against us, and the seas runing mountain high. However, Capn. Williams knowing the Ardour of his brigg, said that if any ship in Europe could weather the point, he was sure of his own. All hands to the sails which were managed with the utmost expidition and precaution. In this manner we worked and wrought the ship for the space of 2 hours dancing amidst rocks and huge seas, till at length by the utmost difficulty and by the best manoevres we gained the point of the Island and soon after fell under the shelter of the land which is very high. All the Caps. officers and saillors on board protest’d afterwards, that if a sail had split, or a rope had broken, we would all have been infallibly lost. Whilst we were weathering the point the most part of the saillors were sure of nothing less than of going to the Bottom at every Instant. Being at length arrived in the harbour of safety as I might say, we Came to an anchor, which was searse let down before one of his Majesty’s Cutters (of three, which at that Crittical moment lay anchored in the harbour) fired a gun and sent two officers on board our Brigg to press the saillors and took in Consequence 112 of them on board the Cutters before night into his Majesty’s service. The King’s officers grant’d their Liberty to the Captains and officers of these saillors, and Capn. Williams protected a few saillors by saying they belong’d to himself. There were, also two Chirurgeons on board who had their Liberty, one of whom was an Irishman named Atkenson a presbyterian from the north of Ireland, who was a very good young man ….. When the King’s officers came on board they descend’d into the Cabbin and seeing us 6 Irish priests, they asked the Capn. who we were, who informed them that we were “Irish Journey men – Soul-savers returning to our Country”, upon which they paid us their Compliments. The next day which was the 26th the Capn., 4 of the priests and some others went to the town of Guernsey, to make a declaration of the manner he had resigned his prisoners before the Governor of the town whose name I think was white. Mr. Cullen went with the Capn. to this Gentleman to demand his protection for himself and his Country-men also, the governour having grant’d and assured him of this protection, they returned to an Inn where they dined and refreshed themselves after their long fatigue.
I was still on board the Mary when about 10 o’clock the Cutter’s boat came along side us again seeking after some of the saillors who had the night before hid themselves in the hold. After the King’s officer had made a Dilligent serch after them in vain, he came into the Cabbin and having drank a glass of Good liquor he promised to put me on shore and an officer of Mr. Blackstone nemed, “Smyth” a Confound’d drunkard, and perhaps a good fellow, so having put off, we soon arrived alongside of the Cutter the Cap. of which refused his officer to put us on shore with his boat, desiring him to put us on board the next Brigg which he did in Consequence. Being now on board this Strange brigg, we found ourselves in as bad a Condition, as ever before, fiding only the Boson on board who invited us down to the Cabin Where we remained above an hour without seeing a second person; for the Capn. and the rest of the Crew were in town and had their boat ashore with them. In fine, about 12 o’clock, the Capn., who had but one eye, having lost the use of the other by some accident came on board who when he saw us, saluted us very pollitely, and asked us by what means we came on board his Brigg? Having in a few words recited the acct. of our Misfortunes and he pollitely offered us a glass of strong liquor without much Ceremony, which we accepted with thanks; he was not less bountiful in sending one of his men and his Boat to put us on shore. ‘Twas low water and the boat could not approach so as to get on shore with dry feet, upon which the boy Carried us to land, and having reward’d him for his pains by an English shilling from each, I was Conduct’d by my Companion Mr. Smyth into town where, being arriv’d, I knew not where to find my Companions who went there early in the morning with Capn. Williams; as we were thus in quest of them from one publick house to an other, we were accost’d by a Drunkard (whom we never knew nor seen before) who swore that we should not part him before he’d give us a bottle of wine upon which I said he was a good felloe. He Immediately took me by the hand and led me into a tap room and having rang the bar bell, a bottle of excellent port came rowling on the table in a snap, and three large tumblers well Rinsed. So after I had taken a glass or tumbler of his wine I thaked him for his Civillity and was going to take my leave of him, but he seeming Dissatisfy’d, I sat me down again in complaisance untill we put an end to the bottle, after which I offered to pay for it but ’twas an affront, saying landlord, bring us another. I walked out in the Interval on pretence of returning very soon, and had not gone far before I met with Mr. Searle prize master belonging to Capn. Blackstone, who informed me where Capn. Williams and my companions were, at the same time he conducted me to them at the sign of the Globes a very great Inn. My Companions had already Dined, and I was very hungry. The house could not at this moment furnish me with other eatables, except bread and butter, which I found delicious, the bread was good, but the Butter was the best I had ever tast’d and of a saphron colour. I remember that one of teh Gentlemen of the Company demand’d a Chamber pot as he want’d to draw some water, on being refused, he went to the stare Cast where he made his water, which in a short time after penetrated through the Chinks and being observ’d underneath, the hostess a Daughter of Zantippe, Came up to the Company and if she did not make use of the weapon which nature gave her, I’ll leave my Readers to judge. You must moreover observe that, there are no privy houses in this town, and when Nature Calls, sooner than one would expose his posteriors in the open street he’s obleidged to go to the beech where he may Chuse to face the Wall or the Ocean ….. After we had drank Copiously of good wine under the Globes, we took a walk, and by chance Came acquaint’d with an Irish man from the County Wexford named Capn. Roache who gave us lodgings During our stay in town and plenty of good Mutton, punch and for which he charged us but moderately. His wife, I remember, was a minister’s widow, who had but an only child a daughter by her former husband, who was at this time marriageable. Mrs. Roach was not less Careful of us than her husband, one of the best Creatures You could be acquainted with. The 27 being shrove Tuesday, Capn. Williams pray’d me to walk with him into the Country to where there was an assembly at a Cock fight, seeking after one of his Majesty’s officer’s, who had been there, who was to prepare his papers according to law and the manner how he part’d with his prisoners and having gone accordingly, we found the officer who promised to have his papers ready by 12 the next day. The day became very stormy before we had time to return and blew so fierce, so that ’twas frightful to behold the sea, and the ships in the harbour which were in the utmost distress, training their anchors after them, and runing foul of each other. The fourth day of our time in this Town, the Cap. went to the Governour to have his papers signed, he no sooner saw the Capn. than he pray’d him to order us on board Immediately or else we would be put up for french spies. There has been, said he, several here who informed me that them gentlemen take great notice of the town and its Invirons; so I request that you’ll order them on board, the Capn. on his return informed us of this news, And we content’d ourselves by obeying speedily and going on board, where we remained untill the 4th of March, at which time we sailed out of the Harbour at 12 o’clock and the weatehr very Calm, which continued so untill the 11th when we were put on shore lin a little creek near Holy-head late in the aftn. My Dr. friend, You’ll observe here, that we had a gentleman passenger native of the Co. Galway and Captain in his Majesty’s service whose name I cannot now remember, and 7 soldiers and a Corporal also who were bound for Ireland from Guernsey on a recruiting party. This Captain who was a real Gentleman in all his actions was treated by Capn. Williams in as low a manner as the Irish priests … Mr. Cullen who had a small box fill’d with books in his Care Belonging to a priest near Cork, the Capn. observing an address, on’t demand’d half a guinea freight which Mr. Cullen paid. To go on shore we had but a very small boat which was obleidged to go twice. It drew water in such sort that my trunk was half a foot deep in Water which greatly damaged some of my books and some other smaller articles which lay near the bottom. I was one of those who went last on shore, and the boat was so laden with men, trunks, baggage and that we were in great danger of being lost not being above 2 Inches Over water. Happily, the bay was as Calm that moment as any standing pool or lake. We brought our mattress’s and bedcloaths with us, which surprised the Captain greatly but would not have done so had he treated us like a good fellow, but far to the Contrary he almost starved us on the passage, having given us nothing to eat after the two first days but biscuit, and Lobscouse, and for drink a glass of Grogg; we were the 3 last days even without a glass of fresh water. In fine, I never suffered so much in my life as I did whilst I was with the scoundrel Williams, whose ill treatment gave us all sufficient reason to rejoice at our parting so bad a Captain.
We being now ashore, in waters near Holy-head, we Employ’d some porters, who presented themselves. to Carry our trunks and baggages to the town, for which we reward’d them to their satisfaction; we at length arrived at the Hilsborough Inn after Crossin rocks and almost Inaccessible paths, ’twas night besides and the way very Difficult. We were no sooner rendered at the Inn than each of us drank a quart of fine ale which refreshed us greatly after our fatigue, and of which we were in great need. I remember that supper was in a short time afterwards served for us, which was very Elegant and delicious and to tell nothing but truth, we made good use of our time, for we were all Sick at Dinner. Whilst we were thus well Employed, a maid servant gave us notice that there was a Gentleman below stairs who was desireous and ready to Examine our trunks, upon which we sent down our keys by Mr. Redmond, who opened his trunk and mine which of the whole, were the only examined. Aftre this Gentleman had performed his Duty as he tought proper, Mr. Redmond Ordered him a pot of Beer which he drank with seeming Delight and smoked his pipe of Tobacco by the Kitchen fire. After we had supped very well, we drank a large bowl of punch, during said Interval a gentleman entered our appartment in his slippers and spoke to us in Lattin in the following words: “Vos estis omnes sacerdotes hisbernice”. The maid hearing him speak in a Language which she did not well understand, took him by the arm And led him out of the room without saying more or giving us time to Answer him. After we had end’d our Bowl of punch we retired and went to Bed, in which we lay Double and tho, they were not the best in the house, each man paid an English shilling. The next day we took tea for Breckfast and each man a glass of Liquor after. Our bill being sent us, we found it to amount to 7 shills. each for supper bed and breckfast, which being paid, we prepared ourselves to go on board the Hilsborough packet which was almost ready to part for Dublin. ‘Twas now the 12th of March, and twelve of the day, when we hoised sail and made no great way the rest of the day and night, as the weather was very Calm. We brought store of Bread cheese and beer with us, which we bountifully Shared with some Gentlemen who were then on board with us; you might say that we all lived in Common. I remember, I had the first Slate bed on board for which and passage I paid half a guinea. At night Mr. Denn stole our jar of Beer and placed it in the foot of his bed where he made good use of it, having almost drank it down before morning. You’ll observe that the Gentleman who spoke lattin to us last night was also on board the packet, whose name is Hopkins, native of Tuam in the Co. Galway, whose Brother was a Cotemporary Student of mine at the Irish Seminary in Nantes. This Gentleman who has a residence in London, was now Conducting an Irish friar named Hughes, to his native Country, who had been ill treated by the mob in the time of the remarkable Insurrection of the presbyterians in that City, who not only burnt his Chappel, but plundered and rifted his house by which means he Immediately lost the use of his reason, which he now was regaining and was now sent to Ireland under the Care of Mr. Hopkins, by his friends in London and …..
On the 13, early in the morning we had view of the Hoath, but the wind being slack we let go our anchor, which had not been well to the bottom before a light breeze sprung up, so hoising sail again we gained the port of Dublin in a few hours where I land’d on John’s quay at one o’clock in the aft. and coming to fleet market where my Brother lived, I remain’d with him untill the 20th ……
On my arrival in Dublin, my first Care was to post and Deliver some packets of Letters which the Gentlemen of the Community Intrusted to my Care. My next was of writing to my parents to send me a horse to Carry me to the Country; and the 3rd was to Cloath myself neatly. My friends and relations were so rejoiced at my safe return from france, that a great many of them Came to Dublin to meet me and several others above mid way. Having left Dublin on the 20th about 10 o’clock, I set out with my relations and friends for Anagh, and having travell’d all night, for the weather was very fine, we arrived at my sister’s at Pallace by day-light. After passing an hour or more there, I took my leave and part’d for to see my Dar parents whom I had not seen for almost the space of six years. On my Coming in their presence, I prostrated myself for their benediction, which after they had given, the Embraced me with paternal and maternal fondness and sweetness and afterwards baithed me over with a flood of joyful tears in the midst of our united Caresses. I did not remain above an hour in these transports of felicity, before I resolved to go to the town of Gorey to meet my friends there, the Rev’d Edmond Shalloe and his Curate the Rev’d John Synnott, who were that day hearing Confessions in the Chappel of said town; having paid these Gentlemen my respects, we went and Dined at Mr. Richard Doyle’s Gent. who lived that time in Gorey, and having spent the rest of the day untill 9 at night visiting my friends in this town, I thought it time again to go and pay my Dutiful respects to Doctr. Sweetman in Wexford; and in consequence part’d on the 24th for said town where I arriv’d about 2 in the aftn. after being delayed near two hours for a passage. On my arrival in town I was Informed that the Rev’d William Brennan parish priest of Castle Bridge was in a Certain house in town whom I went to see without further Delay, and having found this Gentleman he conducted me to mr. Patt O’Byrne’s at the Corner of Backstreet where I made a sort of Dinner, after which I went to visit Doctr. Sweetman who received me with paternal affection and pastoral kindness, and after a few Interogations, asked me what kind of a man Mr. Walsh was, and without giving me time to answer to the question proposed, he produced a large sheet of paper, a copy of the original which the students of Nantes sent Docr. Carpenter, Arch-bishop of Dublin, who Circulated it to all the prelates in the Kingdom. This piece Contained five or six points very grieveous and of great weight against the Conduct of Mr. Walsh rector of the Irish Seminary at Nantes; one in particular had the weight of simony, and the rest were not less Grieveous in their kind. In this piece, which was well penned, the subjects postulated the prelates of Ireland to write to the Bishop of Nantes to have him expulsed and to Install Doctr. O’flinn. But whether the prelates of Ireland writ to the bishop of Nantes on that subject I know not howbeit; he remain’d since superior of the house as before. After his Lordship had read this piece for me, he Asked me if I knew the punctitions which were against Mr. Walsh to be fact? I answered my Lord, that it seemed Very probably for fact, or so many Gentlemen from all the parts of Ireland could not be Induced to sign their names against their Conscience to a matter of such weight and Importance, unless a fact. After we had Conversed an hour, my Lord gave me a written permission for Celebrating one mass Daily for a month from teh date thereof, which in the ordinary term he grants to his subjects on their first vigil, and three months on their 2nd Vigil….. It being now late, I took leave of his Lordship and returned to mr. O’Byrne’s where I supped and lay that night. Teh 25 being Sunday, I went and heard mass, and at 9 o’clock, I left the town of Wexford and rode to Bargy to vigil my old acquaintances in them parts. About 12 o’clock I came to Mr. Cogley’s in Edward’s town with whom I lodged when I went to school at Tullacanna, but instead of expect’d myrth and joy on my arrival, I had the mortification to find that Mrs. Cogley had died about 20 minutes before, whose death I regretted greatly; she was sister to the Rev’d Edmond Shalloe whom I have already mentioned….. Finding matters in this low condition and melancholy situation, I could not Content myself to remain here a long time, on which I resolved to walk to Tullacanna where I met with a great many of my former acquaintances who were rejoiced at seeing me. After passing the aftn. there, I returned back and lay at Mr. Cogley’s Cousin Germain to the former; after I had lain down to repose myself after my fatigue, I was not a little surprised to hear Doctor Stafford’s Voice in the room near 12 at night, which I knew. I heard him say a gret many things of me, and feigning myself to be in a profound sleep he approached my Bed, and as it were, he awaken’d me, Embraced me and express’d in each sentiment how much he was rejoiced in seeing me in good health. You’ll observe, that all the beds in the house were then occupied by friends and strangers, so that the Doctr. was oblig’d to lye by my side for I had already possession. The next day, we celebrated our mass’s for the Eternal repose of Mrs. Cogly, nad the ensuing day in like manner which was the day of Interrment. Having accompanied her funeral Convoy to the Churchyard of Trinity, I returned to Wexford where I met the Rev’d John Fitzgerrald and Rev’d francis Lacy with whom I went over the ferry and pass’d by Castle Bridge – went with Mr. Lady to his father’s where we three lay that night. The next day which was the 28th, we three returned back to Castle Bridge, where we assist’d at a month’s mind for the Rev’d Thomas Doyle’s Sister; here I met 13 Clergimen of my acquaintance who carress’d me tenderly, with whom I spent the most part of the day. In the aft. I went with the Rev’d John Fitzgerald to Mr. John Fitzgerald’s Gent. at Ballenamoneybeg where I lay that night. Next day I return’d to Anagh, and on my way I took the occasion of visiting Mr. Mathew Pool with whom I formerly Lodged. I was not a less welcomed Guest here than in all the other places which I had already visited. After I had Dined, I rode to Kilebeg to acquaint Mr. Shalloe of the Death of his Sister, and was sorry that I was the messenger of such tydings. However, after Consoaling him for some time, I returned to Anagh where I scarse spent a day entirely but Visiting one friend or other. I had e’er now decided myself to return again to france in order to spend three or four years. My parents were surprised at my thus fixed resolution, And the more they strove to dissuade me from my designed purpose, the more my resolution became stedfast and unaltered. They made use of all the artifice in their power to keep me; but all was in vain! In Consequence of my Design, I set out the 3rd of June for Dublin where I arrived at 7 o’clock in the aft, and lived there with my Brother in fleet market untill the 21st of July. In this Interval I came acquaint’d with a great many persons of Distinction in that famous metropolis. I celebrated several masses in Aron-quay Chappel, them of John Street and Rosemarylane. My father knowing that I could not make my Intend’d Voyage by his blessing only, which he freely gave, refused giving me a Certain Sum of Money which I demand’d. I was now 5 weeks in Dublin before he sent me a penny with a design to make me Change my resolution; but he did not take the proper method in time for that end —- I was altogether possitive and headstrong in my resolution. At length I writ him a letter that I would put him to a Crown expence each day that I would remain, on which he sent me a purse of 25 Guineas which I received in Consequence.
1781 July 21 ‘Twas now July the 21st when I Embarked on board a brigg bound for Bordeaux, Capn. William Gunderson Commander, who was married to my Cousin German and lived at No. 61 on John’s Quay Dublin. Capn. Gunderson had another passenger on Board named Henry, a young priest from the Diocese of in Canought who was going to make his studies in Nantes. Having put to sea, we had very fine weather which continued during our passage in which I saw nothing worth inserting. As we were approaching near Belleisle we took our leave of Dr. Cap. Gunderson who did not use us with the same treatment that Capn. Williams treat’d me, but on the Contrary like a true Gentleman. I was sun strucken on the passage (as I spent a great part of the time on Deck reading fieldings works which delighted me) and thrown into a violent ague and fever which held me only two days. When we came to the Town of Belleisle, I went Immediately to the Governour to demand his protection, which I obtained. I was not long in this town before I made acquaintance with the Vicar of the place named Gillevie – “Cure du palais”, Adn with Monsieur Labbe Huby Chaplain of the Hospital. These Gentlemen treated me with a great deal of polliteness and showed me all the Curiosities of the town in a very short time. Having remained in this town from the Evening of the 27th I procured a passage for Mr. Henry to Nantes, and one for myself to auray in Low Brittony, for which place I embark’d the 30th at 12 o’clock and coming to an anchor that night in the River we remained there till near 7 o’clock the net day. The night I remember was the coldest I ever perceived in any Climate for the season. In fine, about 10 o’clock I arrived at Auray where I put my trunk in the Messenger’s office directed to L’oemine, and afterwards hired a horse to carry me to said place and leaving auray about 1 o’clock I made my way to St. Anne of Auray (a very remarkable place of Devotion, where there has been many miracles wrought and where there’s a very famous Convent of Carmelite fryars) and after passing several fine Valleys abounding in Corn fields and apple trees laden with fruit, I arrrived at Loemine chez Monsieur L’abbe Richard a former acquaintance, with whom I supped, but lay In a publick house. The next day being the 1st Augt. I rode by post to the town of Joseclin where I arrived about 10 o’clock. Having Breckfast’d at the Lion, powdered and dress’d; I went to Visit Monsr. de L’eseoit at his house in this town with whom I dined, after which he accompanied me to Lambilly, where he lay that night, and returned back the next day to Joseclin. Monsieur de L’eseoit was formerly a Capn. of his Majesty’s troops who after obtaining the Cross of St. Louis by a due Service, retired from his majesty’s service with an annual pension to live in this town with his wife, but having come acquaint’d some years ago with the Marquis of Lambilly and his Lady, he since spends the most part of his time with them and not with his wife.
I being now arrived at Lambilly, I found that the Marquis and his Lady were at Plombiers in Lorrain making use of its famous waters, upon which I writ Immediately to them, that I was returned again from Ireland according to a former promise at the time of parting them last february; and if they had need of my service, that I would remain with them sooner than with any other family. they wrote bqack how much they were rejoiced at my safe arrival, and prayed me to stay at Lambilly untill their return. Here, I passed my time untill the 2nd October without Company, at which time they arrived from Lorrain and Embraced me with Joyful hearts, after which I passed the time Very agreably with them here untill all saints, when we went to Kergrois, where we spent the Remainder of the Year very happy and untill about the 10th of January in 1782, when we returned back again to Lambilly. On the 7th of March I receiv’d a letter from my Brother Dated february the 15, fleet market Dublin which alarmed me greatly on the account he gave of the state of my father’s health in the following words: “my father (said he) never raised up his head since your Departure, and I fear he will not during his life”. These few words made a very sensible Impression on me, and how to act in my prest. Circumstances I knew not well. To return back so soon again I was ashamed on one part, and on the other an Impulse of a natural tye forced me greatly. In teh is manner, I remained debating with myself on the subject of my Going or staying longer untill teh 23rd March at which time I receiv’d a letter from the Rev’d John Murphy Student in teh Irish Seminary of Nantes which Informed me that there was a ship in the River bound for soem port of Ireland and that I might profit of the opportunity of returning to my Country. On reading this news I was greatly rejoiced, after which I packed up my effects and set out for Nantes by way of Rennes as having sent some cloaths and shirts there in my Lady’s Coach a few days before which I might wear there as I was to go after my Lady to Rennes to buy a new robe. This was the Chief motive for my taking that journey and which was 14 leagues longer than by way of Malletroit and Rhedon.
I mean to give you hereafter in the next book an acct. of my travels and what I have seen and observed in them, but before I shall Conclude the prest. I have one smal paragraph to add which is of not great moment.
Observe, my Dr. friend that when I was leaving Ireland, I bought a Dozen of neat Christal Galsses in Dublin whch I designed for the Marchioness of Lambilly; when I was leaving Belleisle I forgot them there and thought they were very safe in Mr. Henry’s hands, who remained at the Inn where I was untill the day after my departure from thence; but I was mistaken. Mr. Henry who was less forgetful than me brought the Case of Glasses with him to Nantes. On my arrival at Lambilly I writ to him there to send me them by the messenger’s post. He received my letter, but paid no attention to my request; in fine, he gave my Glass’s to his Country men, who Broke them and after writing several times to him afterwards for to send me them, he never sent me an answer. I was at length obliged to write to Mr. Walsh his superior about the manner of his treatment, and at length I received but one glass of the Dozen, which Mr. John Murphy sent me by the messenger’s post. For a small matter, I was never more chagrin’d; moreover to be treated in such a manner by a novice to whom I gave all the Instructions in my power on the passage how he should act in the seminary on his arrival and I may hereafter be Deceived by a man from his province and if ever, you shall knowit. You have already the history of my life, but in a very slight and Imperfect manner untill the prest. period. ‘Tis therefore time to say “Claudite Rivos”. In my next you’ll find how I spent my time from teh prest Crisis so I bid you adieu……
End of first Book
JOURNAL OF
FR. JOHN KAVENAGH:
BOOK II (p. 50 to 93)
1782 March Having receiv’d a letter this morning from the Rev’d John Murphy Studient in Nantes which inform’d me that there was a ship at Paimbeuf bound for Ireland which would takepassengers; in consequence of which for motives which I shall hereafter assign, I took my leave of the noble and respectful Gentleman the Marquis of Lambilly with whom I had now liv’d two years at different periods in quality of Chaplain. Leaving the Charming and delightful seat of Lambilly at 10 o’clock, I set out on foot for the City of Rennes, but the day proving very stormy accompanied with showers of hail, sleet and snow by Intervals, made me accept of taking up night quarters at a small town or village named mordelles, where I arriv’d at 5 o’clock in the aftn. Here I set up at the best Inn, the sign I cannot now recollect, but the host, a man of 32 years, was crippled with the gout in a very miserable manner. Howbeit, I will do him and his wife justice to say that they treated me both with respect and kindness, and their servant maid whose name was felicite was not less careful of Rendering me all the service which her station afford’d …..
I arose about 6 this morning which was palm sunday, and having paid for my supper and bed and gratify’d Miss felicite with a 12 souse piece, I left the village about 7 o’clock and near 10, I arriv’d at the white Lamb in Rennes, chez serrier whom I met accidentally as I walk’d through the Town. Monsieur Serriere knew me since the 12th of June in 1779, at the marquis of Lambilly’s having been then his house stewart or Martre D’hotel, and for a considerable time afterwards. Here I dined very well, and after dinner I went to pay my respects to the Marchioness of Lambilly at her hotel in Dauphin Street, where I supp’d with her and with Mademoiselle Marie Victoire her daughter and several others.
You are to observe here that my Lady came from the Country to Rennes on teh 21st in order to pass the holy week there, and nourish her soul by hearing the Lamentations of Jeremy and Spiritual Cantides sung both in the Churches an dConvents, togeather with the exercise of many charitable virtues with which she abounds.
My Lady seemed surprised at the news of my parting and asked me the reason, adding that if ’twas on acct. of having but a small Sallary, that she would augment it: I made her reply, that my Inclination was fixed for Ireland, that I had a father there who was advanc’d in years and that my abscence made a deep impression on him; that I was fully determined to return again to Consoal so good a parent and that the tye was quite normal. Here I remained with my Lady And made my easter Communion in the parish church of St. Germain on the 28……
29 Being good friday, I set out on foot for Nantes after Dinner And lay at a small town on the way about 7 leagues from Rennes where I was well used….
30 I arose this morning and set out again on foot and after breckfast I rode post for 3 leagues to refresh myself from Derval to Nosay, from thence I walk’d to bout de Bois where I dined. As I was at dinner, a Company of prisoners from Jersey (who were going from Nantes to St. Malo to embark there on board a Cartel) arrived at the Inn with whom I had a long Interview with teh most worthy among them, an ddrank flowing bumpces of Wine with them. My being delayed here by them in said manner, occasion’d my not been rendered in Nantes untill 10 o’clock at nigth where I took Lodgings in “place de Bretagne” chez Madame Carreaux with whom I pensioned several days ….
31 This Day I was Inform’d that the ship bound for Ireland had parted 6 days e’er then, which threw me in a great hobble, in the aftn. I conversed with Several Gentlemen of the Irish Seminary who came to visit me…..
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APRIL 1782
1 Heard mass in the Church named “bonn Pasteur” which signifies good shepperd.
2 I Celebrated mass in said church about 9 o’clock.
3 I took horse this morning and rode to Choltiere which is two leagues S.E. of Machecoul, to see one of my dear acquaintance the Rev’d Edmond Archdekin from near Thomas town in the Diocese of Ossory, who then was Chaplain to a very worthy and respectful family. You must observe here, that I brought my dog prince with me, being afraid to leave him at my pension in Nantes, as there was in these days a great persecution of dogs in this City, as several persons died by the bites of mad Dogs. On my arrival at Choltiere, I met with my friend, who introduced me to his worthy family who treated me with uncommon politeness.
4 This morning was very pleasant, and ’twas agreed since the last night to devote the forenoon to the Goddess of hunting. I had not been along time Dressed after rising from my bed e’er I found myself attacked by a fever, and in a short time after I commenced to vomit which relieved greatly the pressure which my heart endured, after which I took a glass of pure wine which I immagined rendered me service. My Dr. friend, having Breckfasted, filled a Cruet of good wine which he put in my pocket and then induced me with him into the vineyards and plains each carrying a fowling-piece. We had not gone far before our Dogs started a hare which my Companion pursued! and in that Crittical moment I began a second time to vomit and find myself greatly Indisposed; supported by fortitude, I made some efforts to pursue the game; but I had not gone far e’er I found myself fatigued which obliged me to return back to the Mansion house and ’twas with some Difficulty I found my way, having lost sight and hearing of my Companion and his dogs. On my return I found myself in a short time much better, and in the aftn. lightsome and gay, and passed my time the rest of the day and night very agreeably….
5 Having breckfast’d very well this morning about 7 o’clock, I mount’d my horse about 8 o’clock, having taken leave of the family and my companion and rode off to Machecoul where I made no delay. Near 12 o’clock I arrev’d at St. pierre en Retz when I dined on some fresh eels, after Refreshing both myself and my horse here. I set out again for Nantes where I arrived at 5 in the aftn. About 7 and a half when I was at supper a dreadful fire broke out in a Dyer’s house quite Contigious to my lodgings Which Consumed the entire edifice, and had it not been for the quantity and speedy application of the pomps which played on the flames, there would have been many others laid in dust and ashes.
6 I spent this day in walking too and from in town.
7 I Celebrated mass in the Church vulgarly named St. Claire.
8 I celebrated mass in said church, and viewed the suburbs of the town in the aftn.
9 I Celebrated mass at bon pasteur, and after Dinner saw and spoke with several gentlemen of the Irish Seminary, with whom I took a glass of wine.
10 I took horse and rode out of town about 12 o’clock to Montbert the Country seat of Count de Menou governour of Nante’s Castle, to visit the Rev’d Murtagh seminers Batchelor of the faculty fo Nantes who was then his Chaplain, and consult with him about my going to Brest as there was 6 priests demand’d of the Irish seminary a few days before for the service of his Majesty’s Navy, if they were willing, as you must observe that the king could not force them to the service, as his proper subjects; hearing also that Mr. Sommers was named for the service in the books of the Commissary of War, this gave me room and heart to go in the service and pass a Campaign having no fixed place of residence said time. In fine, I arriv’d at Montbert which is 5 leagues from Nantes about 4 and a half aftn. where I found Mr. Sommers who embraced me tenderly. Having passed the evening Viewing the gardens, walks, allys and which are here very beautiful in Company with Mr. Sommers and youngest son to the Count of Menou, we returned to the house where the appartments were shewn me, which are beautiful; Among many things which are Curious to be seen in the house, is a large Liberary of Choise books. Having supped very well, I lay in the same appartment with Mr. Sommers and spent the night in our beds in conversation.
11 Mr. Sommers having advised me last night to go to Brest gave me a letter this morning for Monsieur Surdeval Commissary of War in Nantes, the tenor of which was thanking him for his attention in enrowling him for the service (in case his Majesty wanted Chaplains) as he had some time before Commended himself to his protection in such Circumstance, insinuating at the same time, that his engagements with the Count de Menou at the present Crisis hindered him from benifiting of his bounty, so prayed him to aggregate me in his place in the class of those who were destined for Brest. On my arrival in Nantes which was about 1 o’clock, I dined, and near 3 o’clock in the aftn. I went and delivered the letter to Mr. Surdeval who gave me a passport for Brest and enrowled my name in his Majesty’s book, withal gave me an order on thie Treasury to be paid 59 livres neat for my conduct to Brest.
12 At 8 o’clock this morning I went to the Treasure office where I was paid the above named sum to defray my expences to Brest. The rest of the day employ’d in the arraingement of my effects and in buying some articles whic were useful for my intend’d station.
13 This morning at 9 and a half I left the City of Nantes and parted for Brest on foot arriving at a small village named Temple. I hired a horse from thence to Pontchateau, where I lay that night at the sign of the pellican where I was well treated.
14 I arose early this morning, and walked to Roach-bernard where I met with mr. Tamia Italien Cieler by profession, who some time before wrought for the Marquis of Lambilly; having breckfast’d very hearty in a publick house, we went and heard mass, for I remember, ’twas the Saboth day; after which he invited me to his Lodgings, where he gave me a glass of excellent Cordial, and afterwards Conducted me to the ferry where I part’d with that honest Italien. Being now over the ferry or the River, named the Villaine, I walked to Musillae where I dined very well with a Sergeant and Corporal who were going to Vannes to incorporate with their Regiment which was there in garrison or at quarters. After Dinner we hired horses and rode to Vannes, where we arriv’d about 7 o’clock: having parted with my fellow travellers at the Inn appointed for the horses, I went to the Golden Lion where I supped and lay that night.
15 Leaving Vannes early this morning I walked to Auray where I took Some refreshments; here I hired a horse which I rode to Hennebon, where I arrived about 12 o’clock: having Dined here at the golden Lion in Company with the Count of ***, I set out on foot, and walked to Quimperlay, where I lay that night, and was very well treated by my hostess.
16 About 6 o’clock this morning I took horse and rode to Rosparden. From thence I walked to quimpercorentin where I dined very well right Opposite the Cathedral Church. After Dinner I set out again on foot, and having walk’d near 5 leagues my feet and legs began to swell which occasion’d my going to a village where there was a parish church about half a mile off the high road, where I hired a horse which I rode to a small village where there was but one publick house. You’ll observe that to make an agreement for the horse I was obliged to go to the parish priest who seved for Interpreter, and tho, he seemed an ignorant old chum, he was kind enough to offer me a glass of wine, whic I accepted freely; he was glad to be rid of me, I immagined, at so small expence, for the was afraid that I would Intrude myself on him for a night’s lodging and supper, and by that means he procured a horse for me from the same person who had already refused me. In fine, having thanked this grave odl Clergiman I mounted on a little shabby nag, about the size of a he-goat and rode to the aforesaid village, having for guide his owner, who Carried his sabbots which is a sort of wooden Brouges, which the peasants of this Country Use in place of shoes) in his hands, and ran as swift as a reindeer before me. Being arrived at length on the sea shore, my little nag began to sink greatly on the snads which we Continued to find for the space of three english miles which at length end’d at the village where I lay. Being arriv’d at the Inn I was at first refused hospitallity, but the guide having informed the hostess In the language of the Country, that I was a Belac, that is a Clergiman or priest, I was admitted access to enter, and the poor woman warmed wter to baithe my feet and used all the means in her power to serve me; gave me for supper the best meat her house afford’d which I remember was a joint of salt’d pork and a bottle of good Bordeaux red, and the best bed in her house to lye on, so after I had regaled myself, I went to repose and slept very well.
17 Having arose about sunrise I found myself quite souple and in good heart. Having descende’d to the first floor (for I lay up stairs) by a’pair of stairs which by length of time were rotten and all in large holes through which the dogs and cats might play; I accost’d my hostess with a “a beau jour Madame”. After the usual Compliments I pray’d her to procure me a horse to Carry me to Longveau which she did in a short time, and having paid for my supper, wine and bed which was but 25 sols, I mounted on a small nag not much unlike the nag I rode yesterday. In the aftn. only in Colour, the former being white and the present a galled bay; I rode off, and by 10 o’clock I arriv’d at Longveau a small town situated on the SE. of the road or bay and town of Brest. Here I made a stay of an hour waiting for the flow of the tide to sit the passage boat afloat, and having made a sort of Breckfast and dinner at once, I walk’d to the boat into which I threw a small packet of shirts stockings and Indian Pocket-hankerchiefs, which a young woman who seem’d a Religious took to her Care and plac’d them on her lap under he Cloak. In fine, we shove off about 11 o’clock and hoised up both jib and mizen and at 1 o’clock we arriv’d at Brest where I was put on shore on that part which is call’d vulgarly “la Couvrance”. Having now being put on shore or land on this side I was obleidged to walk to where there’s a slip to pass into the town of Brest, and having conceiv’d great hunger by being on the water, I went to an Eating house where I abated both hunger and thirst; here I opened my packet and found that my young religious strap had taken one of my Indien hankerchiefs, but alas too late! Having paid for my eating, etc, I went to a hairdresser’s shop who dress’d and powdered my hair in a very elegant manner, who inform’d me where father John Liv’d, and even conducted me near his house; Coming to his Door I tapp’d it and Immediately he came and open’d it and pray’d me to enter, and present’d me a seat. Having sat down I ask’d him if he was such a person, who made answer in the affirmitive, upon which I inform’d him of the Cause of my travells, and was about taking my leave to seek out Lodgings as ’twas then late; he observing my uneasiness proposed me his Cabinet in which I lay 15 nights, and eat at his table I might say at free Cost for many days… You’ll observe my friend, that I said father John; or John Mehegan a Carmelite fryar and native of the Cloine received me like a true born contryman with affection, which he often after made appear by marks of tenderness and goodness: ‘twould be useless here to swell many pages in panegeries on that worthy man’s Character, tho, well deserving of them. Wherefore let it suffice you my friend, and any other reader, that this gentleman is a friend to any Countryman in distress; his heart, his house and his Cellar are all three open to any Dr. Contryman, and his protection no less, which is of no small worth in the town of Brest. in fine he deserves of me to sing his praise.
18 Mr. Mehegan Accompanied me to the Intendance where I was enrowled in his Majesty’s Books for the service, and received a guinea to defray my expences to St. Pol de Leon and a letter for his Lordship the Bishop of said see from the Intendent.
19 Having booted myself this morning in order to walk to St. Pol’s, I walk’d out to the suburbs of Brest where I engaged a horse yesterday, but finding him jaded, galled and in a very low Condition, I renounced mounting hinm, and so walked 5 leagues in my boots to a small town named Lesnevin, where I dined; and where I hired a very good nag from thence to St. Pols where I arriv’d a little after 6 o’clock. On my Arrival at St. Pol’s I put my horse to stable and went afterwards directly to the Community of the Carmelite fryars, having for the Rector a letter from father John. On my presenting the letter I was invited into refectory where I was refreshed by a glass of excellent wine, afterwhich the Rector Conducted me to his Lordship in his episcopal palace, to whom he introduced me. As ’twas then late, his Lordship suspended my Examen untill the ensuing day….
20 At 8 this morning I went to the Palace according to orders, where his Lordship and one of his Vicar general’s examined me in Cases of Conscience both moral and speculative. After an hour’s examination, his Lordship was kind enough to give me half a guinea, and a letter for the rector of the parish of St. Louis at Brest to give me juridical orders in a few days. At the same time, he recommend’d to me to read over a few trealisses in morals. I thanked his mitre for the half-guinea, and having paid his Lordship my respects, I set out Immediately for Brest, but having lost my way, I was by that means retard’d, and having left my nag with his owner and Dined, I walk’d about two leagues to a Village wheresupped and lay that night…
21 Having arose early and paid for supper and bed, I set out for Brest where I arrived at 8 o’clock and heard mass on my arrival at St. Louis, after which I went to see father John to whom I counted over my adventures.
22 I went this morning with Mr. Felix McCabe to St. Louis where I found the rector to whom I delivered my Lord’s letter, after which I went to the Intendant to whom I delivered him an-other from his Lordship in my favour….
23 I spent the remainder of this month in reading morals and preparing myself for hearing the Confessions of the faithful.
MAY 1782
1 This day I rec’d my trunk from Nantes by the messenger’s post the Carriage of which cost me 23 livres 11 sols.
2 I receiv’d an order this day from the Intendant to embark on Board the active man of war of 74 guns Command’d by Capn. Cillart de Suville Brigadiex in his Majesty’s navy, which I gave the Rector of Brest, as he request’d, in order to sign and thereby fill my juridical powers.
3 I went and Celebrated mass in the Church of St. Louis this morning and in the aftn. rec’d my Juridical powers from the rector of said Church.
4 I went this morning on board the active at 7 o’clock, where I took possession of my Room and Chappel, and a sheet which contained the names and numbers of the Sundry articles which were now assigned to my Care.
Here it may not be amiss to give you the names of the general officers and gentlemen on board said ship in the road of Brest which in french is named “L’etat Major”…..
N.B. All the Gentlemen named on this page dined at the Capn’s Table who Compos’d the major state or Condition…
Monsieur Cillart de Suville Brigadier Capn. Commandant
Monsieur de Kerhoir Capn. in second — native of morlaix
Monsieur de Monfort Lieutenant en pie or Lieut. of the 1st Condition or of Marines
Monsieur de Boloign Lieutt.
Monsieur le Chevalier du frenne … idem
Monsieur le Chevalier de Bossieur … idem …
Monsr. Peterzen, a swede by nation . idem
Monsr. le Chevr. or Count de Boulingvilleiere Ensign … native of Brest
Monsr. de Groing ….. idem …
Monsr. Rozen ………… idem – a swede
Monsr. Salva auxillary officer …. a provencial …
Monsr. Norman …. idem …….. a Britton
Monsr. du Brieul … idem ………idem, near Rennes
Monsr. Jaulnee …. idem of Boisibert near Rouen ……
Mr. Jonathan Webb – idem. from sciam near Boston …..
Monsr. de Lascazes … garde marine, or
Monsr. le Chevr. de Lange … idem
Monsr. Pinell …………… idem
Monsr. Tresenne …………. idem
Monsr. Rio Major Chirurgeon … native of L’orient …
John Kavanagh Chaplain …. Diocess of Fernes ….
Officers of a detatchment of Burbon’s Regimt. .. on Board
Monsr. Longeval Capn. Commandant …..
Monsr. Cuningham Lieutt. ….
VOLUNTEERS ON BOARD
Monsieur de Kerbole from vitre in Brittony …
Monsieur .. Rebillon Senior …)
Monsieur .. Rebillon Junior …) Brothers, Brittons
Monsr. de Remarion idem .. a Geneva-man …
Monsr. de Gouroing, item – from near Joscelin in Brittany
Monsr. de Preville item .. native of Brest …
AID CHIRURGEONS
Monsieur Bossiere Chiron. in 2nd or s aid …
Monsr. Nicholas Porchez .. idem, Cityzen of Nantes.
Monsr. Goudon ………….. idem a Norman ….
Monsr. N……..
Being now in Charge of 796 souls on Board the ship, I spent the most part of my time on board and Catichised the swabers daily, who were 64 in number, going to shore but twice a week to visit my Dr. friend father John. I was not long on board before 25 of our saillors fell sick whom we sent to the Hospitals, and received others in their place and from the first day of my Coming on board untill the 6 of July nothing very remarkable hapened but what I shall here set down. During this interval we lay at anchor in the road under the Command of Monsieur de La Motte Piquet in Chief, being 9 ships of th line, some frigates and smaller Craft. The weather was very bad, continual rains, mists, and storms by Intervals, from the 19th of April untill the begining of July ….
June 1782 Some time in June, a soldier of Borbonns Regtt. stole some shirts which was the 2nd known theft he had Committed on board. The Lieut. of the first Condition, or Marines, being apprised, took the following means for to punish him; for that end, he 1st appris’d his Capn. who consent’d to his degradation, after which an officer was sent on board the Invincible, Monsr. de la Motte Piquet for an order of Justice which he brought on board. An order of Justice in this sense, signifys a permission for firing a Canon before the execution of the Law or Justice, to which a delinquent is Condemned… behold the thief, a red haired yuoth comes form the water hold on deck handcuffed, escort’d by a file of musqueteers and a Corporal of the watch, where he was striped naked to his waist ready to run the Gantlope from the steerage to the Bonsprit and back again between two ranks of the saillors, each man having a platted cord in his hand to give him a wipe of it as he pass’d by. The Canon roars, and off he runs, the multitude load him with blows as he goes and returns; in fine, he gains the barrier and is left to laugh or cry his folly and torment the scent being over, his flesh and skin were both in a sad condition, and in a few hours he was sent to the Hospital where there was Care taken of him by applying Brandy to his back and sides in order to preserve his contusions from mortifying ….
28 An order was sent on Board our ship this morning from the general to prepare charges of powder in large strong paper, in order to spare the parchment Charges, as our ship by her position at anchor was Chosen to give a sham battle against a other ship of Line to divert their Royal Highness’s the Count and Countess of the North, who were making the tour of france at this time. I said their “R.H. count and Countess du Nord” or of the North: You’ll observe that these two great personages who in fact are their Imperial Majestys of Russia have given themselves that title, and have made the tour of Italy and the most part of the Continent under said title …….. the above orders were punctualy executed.
29 About one o’clock this morning, Being the feast of St. Peter and Paul, their Royal Highnesses the Count and Countess of the North, arrived in Brest, and set up at a large Inn on the Ramparts which was elegantly embelished and Ornamented for their Reception. About 10 o’clock Monsieur de La Motte Piquet ushered them to the Intendance where he embarked them on board one of his Majesty’s long boats, which was elegantly painted, having a Canopy of red Silk over it and Curtains of the same hue and stuff, which was maned by 10 of his best Oarsmen all in white shirts outside their jackets, and their Bonnets decorated with plumes and flowers of various dies or rather hues of nature, all which made a very beautiful sight. Having put off, they soon arrived on Board the Invincible, where they were saluted by discharge of 21 pieces of Canon on their entering the Countil Chamber. About half an hour after, the signal for Battle was given by the discharge of a Canon from the Invincible, which was not sooner heard or perceived on board the active than her Canons began to roar, And from the opposite sip, which held during several Broadsides from all the Canon and swivils on the side of Battle. Together with 200 pieces of small arms supported by regular troops and marine soldiers, which made a wonderful Harmony of disagreeable musick to my ears, and smoke to the organs of my senses. You must observe that, every armed ship and frigate in the road were dressed in their Colours durig the whole day, which is Customary on such occasions. In fine, the Battle ends by sticking an English flag on board the General, an appoint’d signal: after a discharge of more than 500 pieces of Canon from each ship, which delighted greatly their Royal highness’s being the first scene of the kind they had ever seen, which being over and the vapours of the powder and smoke carried off by the wind, their R.Hs. thought it time to return to Brest, and on their leaving the ship they were again resaluted, but in a general manner by all the ships and frigates in teh road by a salvo of 21 pieces of Canon from each.
At night a more beautiful scene and more tranquil succeed’d the former: to wit, Illuminations. The Town wsa Illuminated in the most eligant manner, and 3 ships in the road only for the want of Lantherns, which Could not be found neither on board the ships, nor in the magazines at that Critical Crisis, for more than three ships, which were Illuminated in the most delightful order, from the ship’s vane, over the three masts, forming as ’twere three arches, the yards, jibb-booms and bonsprits, in like manner, the flag staff and Ensign staff, the gangways and between decks, the Council Chambers, dining rooms nd galleries. In fine, this scene which nothing Could surpass for Beaty in the order of the lights end’d at 11 o’clock by a perfect silence, both in town and in the road on board the ships. Their R. Highnesses having remained in Brest for 4 days took leave of the town, having amply reward’d saillors, soldiers and servants.
Whilst we remained in the road waiting for orders, you’ll observe that we had several great feasts on Board and persons of distinction and quallity of each sex dined withy us, as follows..
Madame N. Sister to Cap. Cillart and gouverness to his Daughters
4 Daughters to the Captain ….
Several Laidies of the first rank and byrth of the Town of Brest
Monsieur le Marquis de Rouse Colonel of Infantry
Capn. Gregory O’Byrne of Berwick’s Regit.
Nephew to Do. Lieut. of Do. …
The Young Prince de Guimenee, of the family de Rohan
A great many other officers, whose names I cannot recollect
JULY 1782
6 About 9 o’clock the Invincible signalized to all the ships in the road to put to sea without further delay. All hands to work, some wind the Cabstans, whilst others put the sails in readiness to spread before the wind, so soon as we would pass the gullett. At 12 and a half his majesty’s ship the Active got under way in the road of Brest, and sailed out in consort with 8 other ships of the line, one frigate and an armed ship to join or unite with the Combined fleets of spain or france under the Command of Don Cordova in Chief, and Monsr. du Guichin….
Having pass’d the gullett, we spread our Canvass the weather being good and clear, and steered for the ushant Islands. The evening and night passed without any thing remarkable.
7 Met with nothing but neutral ships we lay too all this day, no tempting to go to far, being still in hopes of meeting the combined fleets.
8 At 4 this morning we fell in view of the combined fleets, upon which we immediately crouded sail to hasten our union with them, which was not Completed untill 2 in the aftn. at which time, Monsieur de la motte piquet saluted the General Don Cordova with 7 Canon shots which were answered in a short time after. The united fleets now Consisted of 39 ships of the line, some frigates and several Corvettes….
By this time, tho, not being long at sea, we had 24 sick persons on board the Active; some of whom who were dangerously ill were sent on board a ship which came from Brest to carry the sick back to the Hospitals from on board the ships of the united fleets; which being executed, she made her course back for Brest escorted by a Cutter…
9 All this day, we had a thick and heavy mist, and the weather threatened rain…
10 A very heavy mist this morning which continued til about midday, at which time it began to disappear by the rays of the sun. At 1 o’clock, a marine soldier who had been but a few days ill died almost suddenly, and without the rites. One of the aid Chirurgeons Came to apprise me of his illness the moment of his Death, upon which I made speed possible towards him, but alas on my arrival I found him dead. At 8 and a half I made his funeral obsequies – fine weather all the aftn. and night…
11 This morning was very cold: a thick mist overspreads the heavens and the weather seem’d inclined for rain… At 4 in the aftn. we fell in view of two English ships of Line and a frigate, upon which a signal for Chasing was hoised on board the admiral’s ship, which pursuit we continued during the day and night…
12 At 4 this morning we had view of several other English ships, and by nine o’clock we Came in view of 23 sail, of which 19 or 20 were ships of line. At 10 we Came very near them as they drew up their ships in line of Battle and waited our arrival under their four main sheets, even under the wind, which they leded us to our greater advantage to close them.
In a short time after, Monsr. de la Motte Piquet at the head of 6 other Chasing ships arrived within almost Canon shot of the english line, with a view of Cuting it off; but our other divisions lying backwards – some a league, others two leagues, was therefore unwilling to come to action and in particular by seeing N. ships of first rate in the english line, which had he attempted, he would have been cut to pieces e’er our ships Could arrive to his succour. Don Cordova seeing how affairs stood signalized to Monsr. de la Motte Piquet to lower his sails, which he did being then 5 o’clock. The English seeing that we abandoned the project of Chasing them hoised up their main top sails and sheered off, which they were Capable of doing so in the Commencement as well as then, but were willing (as appeared plain to all) to mock us; for their ships sailed by far better than ours, so after they fled, they formed their fleet into 3 Divisions and disappeered by favour of the night … this happened about 12 leagues off Ushant having the Scilly Islands in bearing……
13 At 6 this morning we had view of the Scilly Islands. Saw 6 large ships in the aft. at a great distance, supposed to be part of the English fleet.
14 Early this morning an English Cartel ship returning from some part of france, fell in with our fleet in which she remained untill 6 in the aftn. as we governed partly on her sourse. At 12 a signal indicating news of Importance appeared on board the admiral; the result it yet mysterious; ’tis supposed from Court, as the ship that brought it Came from Brest. At 7 o’clock we had view of the same ships we saw yesterday… A quarter master a Langodocien being ready to expire, I gave him the absolution and Extremunction. At 9 and a half I performed his last rites, being said time due E off the Lizard point and in view of it. Teh evening very serene…
15 The protecteur sailed out of the line this morning for Brest, in order to Escort the Convoy bound for Rochefort. Nothing of Consequence happened the rest of this day…
16 At 12 o’clock a signal was hoised to change our course from W to N. in hopes of falling in with the Jamaica Convoy, of which we received Information to not be far off, bein seen some days ago in a Certain Lattitude…
17 At 9 o’clock this morning, a young man Died suddenly to whom I gave the absolution “Sub Conditione”. At 5 in the aftn. his Body was launched into the deep. Latt. 47:59.
18 Nothing remarkable this morning. In the aftn. a signal was hoised indicating that the Jamaica Convoy wsa again lately observed in a certain Latt. but we are at prest. Ignorant of the Latt. in which they are…
19 Nothing happened this day worth Inserting…
20 We found ourselves by Computation this day about 20 leagues off Cape Clear, but we were much nearer to it yesterday and this morning, having Changed our Course at 10 o’clock…
21 Saw nothing worth remarking…
22 Nothing remarkable during the day. At 10 at night it began to blow very fresh, which Continued for 24 hours after of a very high wind and a very heavy sea.
23 At 10 this morning, I gave the Extremunction to a Sailor whom I immagined to be near death. At the same moment, a huge wave broke over us and poured down On me and the sick, which left both them and me in a Sad Condition, the ship at said time lying too under her fore sheet reefed and a small stay sail, having great Motion. Thus, we plowed the deep under our naked poles; the wind blew very fierce and the sea ran mountain high. The storm began to abate about 4 in th eaft. but the sea remained greatly agitated…
24 At 12 o’clock, we espied 8 sail, supposed to be ships of the English Line. About 2 o’clock a signal for Chasing them was made and at 4 in the aftn. we abandoned that project as useless…
25 Calm weather this morning. At 4 in the aftn. two of our officers went on board the Terrible Monsr. du Guichin, who brought us the news that the Jamaica Convoy which we saw the 13 inst. whom we supposed for english men of war had thus escaped us. In the aftn. a frigate arriv’d from Brest which brought no news of Consequence Except 50 Bullocks and some Other provisions for the fleet, which was equal to an agreeable news to a great many…
26 All the forenoon a dead calm. The aft. gave us a light air of wind…
27 (
28 ( Nothing of Importance hapened….
29 (
30 At 3 this morning, I gave the absolution and extremunction in the article of Death to one of our Volunteers named Kerbole, whom I exhorted several times to Confession which he put off from morning till noon and from noon till morning, untill at length he fell into a Delirium having a malignant fever. This young man was a native of Vitre in Brittony, where he kept a messenger’s office, till by some mischance a trunk was lost which contained 6000 Livres Tournois, the loss being laid to his office and Consequently to his neglect and charge, he ws obliged to fly. So coming to Brest Capn. Cillart received him in quallity of Volunteer on board his ship. What cloathes he had with him, were scarce worth agroat, and to boot a rank Itch. Seein him in that sad Condition as he lay sick, I put a fine Cotton Cap on his head, but he was no sooner dead, than some rascal striped him of it … At 8 in the aftn. I made his funeral obsequies…
31 Good weather all this day and nothing else worth Inserting…
AUGUST 1782
1 Good weather, a light mist which the rays of the sun drew off by 10 o’clock.
2 good weather all the forenoon; but in the aft. it blew fresh which continued almost during the night…
3 More calm and a ower sea the aft. misty … at 3 there fell a very heavy shower of rain…
4 All this morning very fine weather, at 12 Monsieur de Longant Capn. of the Zodiac came on board, and made a stay of near half an hour…..
5 Sent one of our officers on board the general, who returned with the news of Our destination for Cadiz. We are now in the bay of Biscay, where we remain for the protection of the Convoy which is daily expected from Cape St. francis …
6 fine weather all the forenoon; but at 1 o’clock it began to blow ver fresh, and continued so during the whole night…..
7 At 4 this morning the storm abated and remained untill 7 at which time it began to blow again excessively hard, and continued so for the rest of the day and night…
8 The wind as yet very high and blows with fury, but the sea does not run so high as when it blew more moderate; notwithstanding the ship rowls surprisingly tho, runing, I might say, under her naked poles…
9 the time became more calm and nothing seen remarkable….
10 About 8 this morning, the wind coming favourable, Don Cordova signalized to the fleet to make their way for Cadiz. about 12 we found ourselves by Computation on the chart about 25 leagues from C. finistre. The wind having altered by coming right a head, we were driven back very far…
11 At 4 this morning we had view of Cape Artigal. the wind remaining foul we still run back in the Gulf of Gascony…
12 All this morning misty and heavy weather. At 2 in the aft it cleared up, the gale gentle, and high swells…
13 All the forenoon as yesterday, the weather dark & gloomy. At 6 it began to blow fresh and continued so during the night. A little after 6 as I walked on Deck a Gunner passing by me with a Can of soup which received a shock from one of his shipmates by which a spill reached my Right Leg, and scalded me from the knee to the ancle, but proved of no great Consequence.
14 A thick mist with some rain, strong wind & a high sea. We were almost runing the whole day under our naked poles, but the weather became most Moderate late in the aftn…..
15 At 10 and a half I celebrated Mass, and administered the Viatic to a Marine Soldier, the weather calm, the wind at S.E. a very thick mist and some rain. After mass, I administered the Extremunction to the aforesaid … at 7 in the aft. I Confessed Mr. Nicholas Porchez Chirurgeon. Between the hours of 9 & 10 there fell an abundance of rain in very heavy showers, attend’d with strong gales of wind, which varied all of a sudden from S.E. to N.N.W. at which time we made a tack in hopes of gaining Cape finistre which we sought these several days past…
16 A very fine morning. The weather clear – a heavy shower of rain fell at 8 which made us take down our topsails. At 1 o’clock, Monsr. Monfort our Lieutt. in general being somewhat Indisposed these two days past sent for me to Confess him, which being done I gave him pennance & absn. At 4 a Luggar from Brest appeared in view bringing orders from the fleet. The aft. became fresh, and the wind changed again to sought…..
17 It blew very fresh all the last night which occasioned the sea to run in high swells al this day ….
18 Early this morning the Lugger from Brest pass’d under our stern which we hailed & spoke to. At 9 o’clock, I said mass for Monsr. Monfort. At 10 we sent an officer on board Monsr. du Guichin to know his news. On his return he inform’d us that the fleet was bound for Cadiz. At 12 we were by Calculation 50 leagues N.W. off Cape finestre. Heazy weather all aftn. Calm all night and a thick mist….
19 A very fine morn, but a perfect calm, which Continued all day. At 11 the sun appeared which revived us greatly, not having seen it for several days successively, being obscured by foggs, mists, rain, thick clouds. I have not hitherto in my life observed the ocean more tranquil than it has been all this day. At 1 o’clock the aforesaid Lugger sailed out of the fleet for Brest. At 12 our first pilot pricked his point on the Chart, bearing distance 70 leagues off Cape fenestre. A perfect calm at night…..
20 All the forenoon calm with a thick mist and small rain. At 12 the wind became fair for our Course tho, very slack. A signal was made in the usual manner in misty & foggy weather, by a certain number of Canon shots from the Commandment general and the repeating ships. At 5 aft. the foggs & mists disappear’d and left behind them a clear firmament, which continued for the rest of the day; the sun dipped in the ocean with seeming pleasure. At 7 I administered the Extremn. to Mr. Nicholas Porchez of whom there’s mention in the last page. All night the weather very calm…
21 At 7 and a half this morning I visited the sick. At 8 I went to celebrate mass and after Communion I administered the viatic to Mr. Anthony Monfort Lieut. Major of the Marines who was dangerously ill of a putrid fever, after which I administered the same rite to Mr. Porchez above mentioned. After mass I went to Breckfast and eat about half an oz. of strong flavoured cheese which was sufficient to poison a company of mice, an oz. of bread & a glass of wine & water. At 9 we made 2 and a half knots pr. hour, but on a foul Course the rest of the day passed in Calm weather, and nothing remarkable.
22 Near 3 o’clock this morning, Mr. Nicholas Porchez Chirurgeon depart’d this life. At 9 and a half I celebrated mass to his eternal repose. At 10 I made his last obsequies. Fine weather al the forenoon. At 1 o’clock a gust of wind with the bursting of a cloud semed to menace us, on the approach of which, we striped the ship almost naked in order to withstand its fury with less danger. It blew somewhat fresh, but not with as much violence as we expected. At 7 I rec’d 7 endlish books of no great value which Mr. Porchez left me as a Memorial; the rest of the aft. & night pass’d as before mentioned, the Wind being stil Contrary…..
23 Between 9 and 10 of the clock this morning, I celebrated mass for Mr. Anthony Monfort Lieut. who is dangerously ill. At 12 we were by calculation 71 Leagues off Cape finister, bearing said distance N.N. by W. At 4 o’clock, I administered the Extremunction to Mr. Monfort. At 8 I read the agonizing prayers for him which were no sooner said, than he throbed forth his last, about half an hour after 8… At 11 and a half at night I made his funeral Obsequies, preceded his Corps from his room to the main mast right opposite to which I saw it Lanched into the deep. About 6 this aftn. it began to freshen, which, Continued during the night, the sea runing & rowling in rough high swells..
24 Since 12 last night untill 12 this day ther fell an abundance of rain. At 10 and a half I Celebrated mass for the repose of Monsr. Monfort, during the time of the Sacrafice, the ship had such motion, that I could scarse hold myself to the alter, had a man employed holding the Chalice for fear of being overset by the sudden jerks which the roughness of the sea occasioned. The aft. became pretty calm & the sea more mild .. the wind still continues Contrary. After Mass I confess’d a saillor, and at 2 at night two others which were sick..
25 At 4 o’clock this morning the weather being fine and the wind having varied in our favour, the signal was made to veer and make our Course for Cadiz on which we put up all our sails for the wind was not strong. You’ll Observe, my Dr. friend, that this was the feast day of St. Louis, in whose Honr. the Capn. ordered a double portion of meat and drink for the crew. I celebrated mass which was sung in the most solemn manner, for ’twas Sunday withal. At Vespers, after the Antn. and Magnificat, I sung the te Deum, according to the rites of france; after which we put a Joyful end to the day Dancing, singing, playing …..
26 fine weather all day, tho, the wind varied a little from the point in which it stood yesterday. At 7 aft. we haled and spoke to the Zodiac. Fine weather all night & the wind fabourable…
27 A very fine morning. At 2 and a half I celebrated mass for the soul of the deceas’d Mr. Porchez. At 9 o’clock we received 15 prisoners on board, from on board an armed brig which sailed out of Brest in pursuit of us carrying orders for the fleet, who, on her coarse through the Bay fel in with the privateer named Guernsey of Guernsey which had been only 3 weeks at sea, and mounting 15 small guns of 4 pounders, after an obstinate engagement of 5 hours, she struck to the white flag. The Crew which consisted of 60 men & boys, had only 7 kill’d, two of whom expired some hours after the engagement, and 13 wound’d. The rest that survive are on board the Terrible Monsr. du Guichin. The aforesaid engagement was fought on the 25 inst…. At 3 and a half aft. we came in view of Cape finister, the weather fine & the wind somewhat fabourable. We remained in view of the Cape during the night….
28 All this morning we had the land in view. At 12 we had not as yet doubled the the Cape; being lying out to the W. of it about the distance of 13 leagues. At 3 a thick mist overspread itself accompanied with light rain, so that one Could scarse discern the Bonsprit from the quarter deck. The wind tho, slack still continues somewhat favourable. At 2 it began to freshen, by which we made 5 and a half knots pr. hour….
29 All the last night continued Heazy, but this morning it cheared up a little, and the wind became fair at N.N.E. which remained in the same point during the day and night….
30 I Celebrated mass at 10 and a half for the repose of Monsr. Monfort. The wind fair and the weather fine. Nothing else remarkable occured this day…
31 Both wind and weather fair. From 12 yesterday untill 12 this day we spun 32 leagues at which time we found ourselves right off Cape de la Roche (alias) the rock of Lisbone. At 2 we saw a brig under Holland Colours Steering a Northerly Coarse. A prospect of a fine aftn. The air very clear, which remained so all the night. Nothing seen remarkable…
SEPTEMBER 1782
1 A very fine morning, and a gentle Breeze of fair wind which brought us near Cape St. Vincent. At 10 and a half I celebrated mas, for ’twas Sunday. AT 3 aft. I took a full view of the Cape and the Country adjacent thereto, the shore, or rather the high and craggy rocks whose surly brows hand noding o’er the deep. Teh aft. became quite calm and the heat excessive. The firmament without the least Cloud. Between 6 & 7 the wind began to rise and became Contrary, by means of which we spent the night veering to & fro, making to large…
2 At 4 this morning a saillor was found Dead in his hammock who went to bed in good health. At 8 a signal for veering was hoised up, and by 12 o’clock we arrived so near the Cape so as to see with an naked eye a Community of Monks or fryars which is situated on the point of a rock over the noisy deep, and several other houses, being about the distance of 3 leagues off them. At 1 o’clock I performed the last Ceremony over the body of the saillor already mentioned. At 3 a signal was made again to make to large, at said time, a sloop under danish Colours sailed through the fleet. Fine weather but very warm, the firmament without a single Cloud. The wind holding contrary; & during the aft. & night we gained but very little….
3 I celebrated mass this day adn Communicated 3 of the Guernsey prisoners whom I Confess’d yesterday in the aft. All three, Irish men to wit one Mr. flannagan from Wicklow, one Mr. Dunn formerly a Cytizen of Dublin but now has a Residence in Jersey. The third a Mr. Casey from the City of Limmerick. At 1 o’clock Monsr. de la motte picquet hoised a flag of Independance and sailed out of the fleet for Cadiz, having numbers, I might say, some hundreds, sick on board his ship besides a great mortallity. The Robust done the same in a short time after. At 12 we were about 40 leagues from Cadiz. Teh weather very calm which continued so all night…
4 This morn the weather was both fine & calm, having view of Cape St. Mary where the Land appeared very high, as of Montaneous & full of Rocks. We Delighted ourselves with the prospect. At 10 o’clock a light breeze sprung up: Near 11 we sent an officer on board the Terrible Monsr. du Guichin to know his news. The officer being returned informed us that, Monsr. de la Motte Piquet quitted the fleet and the Robust also on acct. of the sick which they had on Board. Th Invincible having thrown out upwards of 50 and 300 odd of sick. The Robust was in like manner ill treated by sickness and Deaths according to her numbers. At 3 in the aft. I absolved & anointed one of our aid Chirurgeon’s named Goudon from near Caen in Normandy who was in a deplorable state, having a kind of Convulsive fits of madness; since he fell ill, his aspects were horrid, and shreeks and cries no less. His speech was abomination, and scarse a moment free from trembling. From 12 we had a gentle breeze, and withal fair, of which we strove to profit by puting out all the sail which we possibly could. Near 6 we lower’d sail, as ’twas too late to Enter the bay of Cadiz, so pass’d the night by veering to & fro, not far from the bay of Rota, the wind at W. At 7 o’clock, I went & read the agonizing prayers over the Chirurgeon above mentioned, who expired about 7 and a half…
5 I arose this morning at 3 o’clock, and performed the last ceremony for the Deceas’d. At 8 we Came in view of the land near Cadiz, and the mountains to the E of the town fo Medina Sidonia. At 12 we Came to an anchor in the bay of Rota, according to the orders, as we were defend’d of going down into Cadiz for fear that we could not sail out again by the first wind that would answer our expedition; to wit, of apearing before Gibraltar, of which we could not fail by lying in the bay of Rota. The reason of our Coming to an anchor here was, for the aforesaid reason, besides that of puting our sick In the hospitals and of taking in fresh provisions of which the fleet at that time stood in great need… We have from our ship now at anchor, a beautiful prospect of the City of Cadiz, of Rota, of port St. Mary, the Mountains of Medina-Sidonia, the plains beneath them, and of a vast extent almost all around. At 12 and a half our Capn. went to pay his respects to Don Cordova on board the Trinity (or Trinidad in Spanish) with whom he dined and remained untill 6 o’clock, when he returned with the news that the fleet was to appear before Gibraltar to succour the siedge, and that we should loose no time in sending our sick to the hospitals; nor in taking in refreshments.
6 At 5 in the aft. we Embarked on board a spanish barge, which the french call Becasse; 47 sick persons from on board our ship, destined for the hospitals, whom I accompanied to Cadiz, where we arrived at 7, but the barge could not approach the quay for an hour after, on acct. of low water. At 9 o’clock we had the sick on shore, or on teh quay, and the Clock struck 11, e’er we got the last of them within the town Gates, being carried on their beds from thence to the Hospital, each by four men. At 11 and a half I supped at the Inn known by the name and sign of the Cross of Maltha, kept by an Italien. Went to bed near 1 o’clock.
7 I arose at6 and walked to the quay, where I found our Chaloupe aground being Low water at that hour, which oblidged us to remain 3 hours e’er she set afloat. During the Interval; I walked through several parts of the City which I found beautiful. I went also into a Church which I think belongs to the Augustinians, which I found to be a near emblem of paradise, here in this church. I saw the statues of some saints composed of a matter not less rude not brutal than massive gold & silver, and many other Curious Embelishments. At 9 and a quarter we put off having a quantity of fresh provisions & refreshments on board and arriving at 3 and a quarter on board the ship, I was almost in a fever by the heat of the sun, which was excessive….
8 At 11 this morning the Guernsey prisoners were sent to Cadiz on board a spanish barge underguard. These poor fellows were certainly ill treated on board our ship, with regard to meat & drink, being almost starved; which threw the most of them into sickness. The reason of their ill treatment was thus; on their Coming on board, the Capn. proposed them the same Quantity of meat & drink as any other Common Saillor if they would only serve their watch in turn, which they generously refused. On their parting I gave Mr. flannagan from Wicklow a french half Crown piece, and some Days before I gave them half a Crown’s worth of wine, which I procured for them on board. As this was a great festival, I said mass, and we Celebrated the feast cheerfully….
9 At 4 o’clock this morning a signal for weighing anchor was announced to the fleet by the roar of the Canon on Board the Trinity Don Cordova; and the signals were Immediately after hoised up for said end. At 6 we got our ship under way our Destination being the bay of Algesiras, where we are to remain in order to protect the new floating Batteries, which are shortly to appear before Gibraltar, And to intercept (if possible) the least succour to the beseidged. Our Capn. received orders last Saturday to sail first of all the fleet into the bay, and to station himself the most northward of the line which is projected to be about 4 English miles in length, that is from the two greatest extremes. All the forenoon we had a favourable wind, but in the aft. it varied to our disadvantage. Teh day pass’d without any thing else worth Inserting…
10 The wind being all this day against our Course, we lay too.
11 The wind having changed and became fair for us at 11 this morning; a signal was made to vear and benefit of the gale. In a short time after we had view of Cape Spartel on the Coast of Africa, and of Cape Trafalgar whic is opposite the former at the entrance of the streights. At 6 in the aft. a signal was made defending us from passing the streights as being late, and the Currents which run very rapid here might occasion some thing disagreeable; in Consequence of which we remained lurking to & fro near Cape Spartel all night…
12 I was awakened this morning by the roar of a Canon fired on Baord the Admiral’s Ship, as a signal to pass the streights. At 6 and a half we spoke to a frigate, who Informed us that the English fleet was in pursuit of us, strong of 45 ships of the line, and about 200 transport ships for the relief of Gibraltar. At 8 we were midway in the streights. At 11 and a quarter we let go our anchor in the Bay of Algesiras in 35 fathem water, about an english mile from the beach almost opposite fort St. Rocque. On our arrival here we found 11 Spanish & french ships of line at ahcnor, a great numer of Chebecs frigates. Boom sketches, fire ships add to these 10 floating Batteries already lanched & prepared to appear before the Impregnable & haughty fortifications of Gibraltar. At 3 in the aft. I went on board the largest of them or chief, to wit named which was Command’d by the Prince of Nassau, in order to see & view its structure, which an officer of the same float showed us, and Conducted us into all its appartments. A.at the same time he informed us, that the Construction of the 10 floats cost his majesty 7 millions of hard Dollars and that the expences of the seidge had already Cost 38 millions being in all Computed to 45 millions. After we had taken a view of that surprising mass of wood, wooll & the other materials on board, we returned on board our ship, which lay within pistol shot of said float. From 8 this morning at which time we came in view of gibraltar, the french and spanish lines never ceased keeping a constant fire of Bombs and Canon shot on the new batteries which the English raised some time before on the front of the precipice next the lines. The English return’d their fire for near the space of two hours… From our prest. station we have, my Dr. friend a most beatiful view of Gibraltar and a prospect of the Country: the former appears desolate and in Ruin. We have a full view also of the huts & tents erected by the Inhabitants in the flank of the mountain (where they fled for refuge from the bombs and balls) representing a Camp. We have in like manner a Charming view of the Spanish & french Camps delightful to be seen; of fort St. Roche, of fort St. Philip, of fort St. Barbe and the Lines. Perhaps no place on the Globe at prest., nor perhaps never yet has been so greatly menaced as the barren rocks of Gibralter both by sea & land this moment; Being on the Land, a Camp of 28,000 regular troops of france & spain, and on Water 49 ships of line, 10 floating batteries, upwards of 40 chebecs & frigates and a Considerable number of smaller Craft, as pinks, Cutters, Corvetts, fireships and more than 30 bombardoes & boombsketches.
The lines kept a Constant fire on Gibraltar, and on the new Batteries since the 8th Inst. of bombs &Canon shots both day & night which they still continued.
13 At 8 and a half this morning the floating batteries sailed down before the Impregnable Walls of Gibraltar. At 9 and a half the forts began to play on them e’er they had time to come to anchorage and placing the floats in a proper manner for Execution. In fine, a perpetual fire ensues on each side, shocking to see but far more to hear the grumbling groans of the Canon. The whole place seems in Convulsions. The ships in the bay tremble by the agitated motion of the air. The heavens are filled to the atmosphere with smoke, the shreeks and cries of the wound’d are drowned by the explosions of these fatal Implements of war. Everything and every moment threatens an Immediate dissolution on each side, and victory, which is yet doubtful to many, is left for time to determine. At 7 in the aftn. our Chaloupe was ordered off to Carry the dead & wound’d from on board the floats on shore; upon which one of our officers set off Immediately for said purpose and went on board the float Command’d by the Prince of Nassau, who had 4 offrs. killed in the Commencement and numbers of the saillores kill’d & wound’d, as he Informed us on his return at 11 o’clock at night. The English maintained their fire so constant of hot shots, bombs, granadoes & Carcass’s that they set all the floats on fire in spite of all the water pomps & engines employed to extinguish them. About 11 at night Don Cordova being informed that the floats were in Danger, as the hot shots penetrated very deep in them, Call’d a Council of war on board his ship, in which ’twas decided to set fire to such of the floats as had not as yet been on fire, and let the Crews save themselves if possible. For these two ends, Boats & Chaloupes were sent for the relief of the men, and for the more speedy destruction of the floats, a sulphered shirt was sent to each to Communicate the fire between the planks. Upon this names and orders, the spanards betook themselves to flight in their boats, but not having a sufficient quantity for all; some betook themselves to swim…the English perceiving their Disorder (for the night was clear) sent several boats to their relief and picked up from the waves and from the floats on fire 335 souls whom they made prisoners. A french Chaloupe returning from the floats with 80 men on board, perished by a bomb which sunk them all. At 8 at night I absolv’d and anointed our secretary one Coquereaux from near Rochelle who has been sick 5 days of a fever….
14 After 12 last night the spanards began to abandon their floats, and as I have already remarked that the English took up 335 from the waves & the flames, which to some may seem very extraordinary; but not more than ’tis a fact, which merits all praise of Bravery in them, and at the same time, much more of Glory for their humanity; having sent their men & boats to their succour, when they were abandoned by their own, not daring several of them to approach within shot. At 5 this morning one of the floats blew up, an dfrom time to time untill 5 in the aftn. 7 of the rest and two only of them burnt outright, which had their powder Cast over board e’er they were abandoned.
Some time this day General Elliot sent news to the Camp and the Lines that he had made 335 prisoners which were taken up both from the flames and the waves and in said number were 7 officers, whom the spanards Ransomed each for a Bullock. In fine, to make account for Yesterday and this morning’s havock; no less than 3,000 men were kill’d on board the floats and perhaps as many wound’d – a fatal day for the spanards having lost their 10 floating batteries (I might say) within the space of 12 hours which cost them so much money & pains, as I have hitherto mention’d. You’ll observe, my friend, that 6 of these floats had two Batteries each, and the other 4 were of one battery each, having on board the 10 about 256 as fine brass pieces of Canon as were ever yet made, the most of which were of 18, 22 & 26 pounders. Each float had 4 anchors, and as many Cables, and a vast quantity of wooll all of which was either Consumed by fire or perished otherwise in such a manner so as to be of no service whatsoever to any Individual. Thus the whole day passed, the world amusing themselves watching the explosions of the floating batteries.
At 4 this morning our secretary Expired whose Interment I made at 8 in the aftn.
15 The lines kept a Constant fire all this day on the batteries newly erected on the front opposite the lines… at 5 in the aft. his R. highness Count D’Artois went on Board the Trinity. Monsr. don Cordova, who gave orders to the fleet to salute his R. highness with a round of all the Guns on board on his arrival, and to be again repeated at his departure, which should Commence each time Immediately after the signal would be made on board the Genearal, that is, on the fire of the 2nd gun, this salvo was made in the Completed manner by all the ships of line, frigates and Chebecs in the bay, bein dressed in all their Colours & Ensigns.
The Suffisante of 74 which lay leeward to our stern received a ball of an 18 pounder from a spanish ship, on board, which kill’d 4 of her men and wound’d 5 others, one of whom died tow days afterwards. When his highness had parted we gave him an other salvo of 74 guns; thus we Roased ourselves from the Chagrin which the late loss of our men & floats plunged us into; by which you see, my friend, that this is a strong proof that the french & spanards cannot bear long under the affliction; they are scarse 24 hours melancholy, for by a natural sagacity, they Contrive means to expell such evils… At night there fell a plentiful quantity of rain which is rare here in this season. I believe the clouds were rent by the Explosions of the guns. For the air must have been greatly agitated after so many shots.
16 This morning I confess’d a swabber. We have already upwards of 30 sick since our leaving Cadiz who are in a miserable Condition. The Lines maintained a Constant fire all this day on the new works. A Council of war was held also on board the Trinity, in which his R. Highness Count D’artois was present and all the Capns. of the ships of line..
17 The Spanish & french lines kept a Constant fire as usual on the ruins of Gibraltar and on the new works all day…
18 Late last night, the Spanards set fire Designedly to some of their advanced works. At 10 this day, I absolved and administered to a soldier. The Extremunction who had been delirious since the first day of his sickness, and who expired in a few minutes after. At 11 and a half I saw him Cast into the Deep after I had said “Requiescat in pace”…
19 At 3 in the aft. I went on shore and walked through the Camp of 28,000 Regular troops. I had also a most Delightful prospect in my walk of the french & spanish lines, of fort St. Philipe, and of fort St. Barbe. After I had recreated myself by walking, and my senses by the view of the multiplicity of Obhects which are necessary for a seidge, and made use of on such occasions; I returned back and Came on board near 8 o’clock. On my arrival on board, I confessed a saillor from Normandy, and at 9 and a half I administered him the Estremunction….
20 The Lines never Ceased all the last night from Casting of Bombs and Canon shots on the usual places. About one o’clock this morning 10 armed Bombardoes went down in the bay by the favour of the night opposite the English Camp, which they bombard’d with pleasure for an hour & half. The reports of such wicked Implements awaked me from a profound sleep, which were louder than Claps of thunder. Between 1 & 2 in the aftn. I went with my Capn. to Algersiras, a small town seated on the side of the bay of the same name right opposite Gibraltar; on my arrival I viewed the whole town in which I found 4 Churches, 4 hospitals, 3 or 4 of modern fashion, the Streets Irregular and badly paved. In my walk I Came to an alley which led to a Church, on each side of which may be seen a row of Elm trees which form little or almost no shade, after passing through the whole I came to a little creek or rather a Diche where I saw a Spanish Galley Drawn up which occupyed me in viewing its odd Construction longer than I had spent in viewing the whole town. In fine, I saw nothing else in this Town worth the attention of the least Curious person, except humain Excrements, and such like villany and Dirt in the streets. At 7 and a half I Returned on board with my Capn. From 8 untill 10 the lines maintain’d a terrible fire on the front works…
21 Nothing remarkable, unless a Constant fire from the lines, as usual.
22 At one o’clock this morning, a marine soldier died whom I confess’d and administered the Extremunction some days ago. At 10 o’clock after the usual Ceremonies, I saw his body lanched into the deep. At 1 in the aftn. a Corporal of Marines died of a putrid fever & Other Dissorders; at 10 o’clock I strove to Confess him, but I rec’d no Great packet from him, for he could scarsely speak, nevertheless as I found he had a desire for Confessing, I made no scruple of giving him absolution, and afterwards anointed all his senses. At 2 o’clock I saw him cast out like the rest, having no use here for dead men, tho, plenty as herrings all round in the bay. Nothing else occured this day worth Inserting, except the roaring of the bombs and Canons at the lines & the excessive heat of the day…
23 Nothing remarkable except the noise of Bombs & Canon, which has almost destroyed the organs of my hearing.
24 I arose at 4 this morning and went on shore near the Camp, from thence I walk’d to the old lines, along side of which I walked to frot St. Philipe, in which walk I found nothing more curious than the lines in ruin, Canon balls, Mortars. The old lines as well as the new were Composed of reeds bound up like fagotts, and bags or sacks fill’d with sand..
Being arriv’d at for St. Philipe I took a view of it, and found it pretty strong, from thence I walked down to the new lines where I saw the Gunners and Masters of the artillary Exercise their Canons & Mortar pieces by Geometrical rules and proportions of Elevation & distance on the deaf rocks of Gibraltar. I being a little fatigued by walking on the Yellow Sand, neither was I Curious to remain very long there, not having ambition enough to play hard head with english mettal so I returned to the Camp, from thence to the Market place, where I refreshed myself and dined. At 8 I arrived on board, Visited the sick, and read my hours & Vespers after Supper…
25 At 1 this morning one of our swabbers died of a malignant fever whom I Confess’d & anointed a few days ago. At 7 and a half I perform’d the last rites and saw him lanched out into the deep. In the aft. I was seized with a Violent head-ach and found myself feverish, the Cause of both, I attribute to some malaga wine which I drank yesterday in plentiful glasses joined to the fataigue and heat of the day…..
26 At half after one this morning I was obleidged to rise and go to the house of Office, and several times after during the Course of the day, occasioned by some grapes which I eat on the 24 at the Camp. At 9 I said Mass and administered the viatic to our stewart who is very ill. At 3 in the aft. I anointed a novice whom I Confess’d & absolved some days ago…
27 This day occupied several hands & heads of the Board projecting & erecting a tent for our sick on shore in the suburbs of Algesiras; as all the Hospitals were already full, so we were obleidged & Constrained to that necessity. At 2 in the aft. we sent from our Board 35 sick who took possession of their new mansion by 4 o’clock. This mansion was upwards of 70 feet in length by 30 in breath Covered with sail cloth or rather old sails Supported on long large poles of wood, which were sent from the board for that purpose; after we had thus, erected this retreat for these miserable Creatures we were obliged to procure further for them, to wit, Beds, Sheets, Coverlets, Shirts, Pots, fire and Candle light, attendance of lay Brothers, an apothecary and Chirurgeon; in fine all the necessaries of life was supplyed them from the board, except meal & drink…..
28 In Consequence of an order received yesterday for Changing our station, we weighed anchors early this morning and worked the ship through the bay untill we came within half a mile of Algesiras where we cem to our anchors near the Bretagne…
29 At 10 this morning, I anointed our stewart. It being the Saboath day & the feast of the Arch Angel St. Micheal, I celebrated mass near 11 o’clock. At 5 in the aft. After I had sung vespers, I read the agonizing praryers over the sick, who departed this life in a few minutes after by a malignant fever, being then fortifyed with all the sacramts. which his state required. At 8 o’clock preced’d his body, performing his funeral obsequies, from the office where he died to the first port hole on the Larboard side of the first battery, where I saw him cast out to my great regret. His name Peter Loyan a native of Laval.
30 I Celebrated mass this morning for the soul of the above named Loyan. The lines still continue their usual fire. Near 12 at night the Town of Gibraltar & their Camp were bombard’d in a most shocking manner. The bombs for their numbers were equal to a shower of hail, but their falls were by far more noxious; by means of their thunder, I lost my rest. I was at Algesiras inteh aft. where I was Informed that there was an Irish clergyman named mac Keon Confessor in one of the town hospitals.
OCTOBER 1782
1 As I have already observed that I passed last night without repose, so I passed & spent this day without much rest, but at the same time more agreeably. At 4 in the aft. I went on shore, to Algesiras, and arriving at the Hospital whree Mr. McKeon lived, on enquirey, I soon found out his appartment an dmeeting with his servant he informed him that there was a Gentleman who waited on him; bein in his Cabinet he came forth and Embraced me with tenderness, and with a heart seemingly overflowing with joy, Calling me by my name; as you’ll observe that I left a card Yesterday in the aftn. for him as he was then absent, said he was very glad to see a Country man and many other good Marks of kindness. ‘Twas then almost 5 o’clock, and without making further Ceremony he went & brought a bottle of Choice Rum, out of which he poured a pint into a China Bason to which he added water, suggar and the juice of some fien Lemons of which he made an agreeable draught especially in this Climate, so after taking some glasses of his fine refreshing composition and a Conversation of near two hours, he invited me to dine next day with him, which generous invitation I accept’d by promise; after which we went to walk in the cool of the Evening on the Mall, which is named (la Meda) in spanish, where I parted with this Gentleman having taken my leave untill next day, and so returned on board….
2 At 3 o’clock this morning I arose and prepared myself for my promised Visit, having leave from my Capn. and by 5 and a half I got on shore, being now on Land, my first care was to visit our sick in their new habitation, who were now augmented to the number of 32. After I had made my visit round this new hospital, I met with Monsr. Rebilon senior a volunteer who walked with me to an aquaduct (which is about half a mile from the Town of Algesiras to the N.W.) in order to see it. This aquaduct extends itself across a Valleyt about 400 yards in breath, supported on pillars of Lime & Stone; in height about 30 feet in the Center of the valley and less by gradation towards each end. At the nearer end of it to the town, the water is received in a Cistern from which ’tis conveyed by a subteraneous passage more than 300 yards where it discharges itself again into an other Cistern, from hence it runs more than 100 yards to the general place of its Distribution. You’ll observe, my Dr. friend, that water is very scarce in those parts, and sold very dear in Consequence.
It was now 8 o’clock when I had made the last of my observations on the aquaduct and taught it time to return to town and visit my friend in his appartment. On my arrival he Embraced me with a heart of Joyfullness and as he had a visit to make in town, I occupyed myself untill his return (near dinner) in the Inspection of his Library, in which I found several good books. The Rev’d Micheal O’Brien Chaplain on board the Bienaime came & dined with us and a spanish priest also who lives in the same hospital with him. After Dinner, we spent the time very agreeably and at 4 o’clock I confess’d to him. At 5 I took my leave and walk’d in town untill 7 o’clock at which tiem I return’d on board. This Gentleman whose name is Lawrence McKeon from Kells in the County Meath (instar aliorum) well deserves a place in my Journal, for his polliteness and goodness….
Our Master Cook who lay a shore last night was very ill treated in Algesiras, being deprived of his hat, shoe Buckles, watch, cane and Some trifle of Cash, as being drunk and doe hunting, he met with the aforesaid Inconveniences, which he seemed to have merited & which in fact he acknowledged.
The Spanards bombard’d Gibraltar thsi night with Instruments which threatened Immediate death, vomiting rapucious fire, brimstone, old pots, broken glass and griddles, and 1000 other materials used on such occasions, by which I lost my night’s repose….
JOURNAL OF
FR. JOHN KAVENAGH:
BOOK 11 (p. 94 to 132)
3 At 9 this morning, the Invincible which remained in Cadiz, came to an anchor in the bay of Algesiras where she was not long before it began to blow fresh which made her draw her anchors…
4 No events occured this day worth Inserting….
5 At 4 this aft. I went to Algesiras to receive my Linnen from a Laundress which I gave her some days ago. On my arrival in town, I went to visit Mr. McKeon who was said time visiting a french priest Chaplain In a french Hospital who was very ill; upon which I was Immediately Conducted to him. I was not long in the appartment of the sick e’er ’twas proposed me to confess him, to which I acquiesced, and being end’d, I went to an hospital Chappel and returned back again in procession with Mr. McKeon, Mr. O’Brien and Mr. N. an Agustinian fryar Italien, who carried the viatic. The Sick Gentleman’s profession of faith, Catholicity was very edifying In which time he gave all the marks possible of a sincere pennance for his life past. In fine, he made the most edifying and penetrating Speech. At 7 and a half I was obleidged to return on board, and with regret I parted this poor gentleman who edified me every moment that I Spent in his Company. I remember his name & title as follows: Monsieur L’abbe Chimay du Sollier Commandeur de Malte. He’s a Royal abbe also having a spiritual jurisdiction over all the foreign priests of france in Spain, and of those in the land & sea Service…..
6 It being Sunday, I said Mass, and formed my Intention for the spiritual Welfare & speedy recovery of L’abbe Chimay. Nothing happened this day remarkable to my knowledge … except the following – The Spanards & french advanced a new parralel last night within 1100 feet of the works of Gibraltar, in length 360 feet. The English fired upwards of 300 bombs during the night, and ’tis reported that they had but one man killed & none wound’d. Of the 335 souls which were taken up from the flames & the waves on the night of the 13 of Sepr. there remained 52, who inlisted themselves with Governor Elliot, being all Germans, Swissers & Irish men, as we have been inform’d.
7 At 8 this morning a signal was hoised on board the admirals ship defending the saillors from going on shore on acct. of their ill beheavour. At 4 in the aft. I went to Algesiras, wher eI visited our sick and found that they were all much better, after which I went to visit L’abbe chimay whom to my great joy, I found in a far better state of health than I expect’d; after Conversing a Considerable time with this Gentleman, among other things he told me that he was a Langodocien by byrth & abbe Royal that he spent a good part of his life at the Court of Versailes…
8 I was this morning informed that our 2nd pilot arose last night and went on deck to draw water, and as the poor man had a hot fever for some days past, he fell over board and perished unperceived by the watch. In the aft. I went to Algesiras where I recreat’d myself walking & return’d on board at the usual hour…
A Spanish officer dined on board this day who informed us that the english fleet sailed out of Portsmouth about the 10 of last month with 36 ships of line, 8 frigates and 3 fireships with a Convoy of 46 sail supposed for the succour of Gibraltar; that about 13 they were dispersed by a gale of wind near the Scilly Islands and ’tis supposed that some of them perish’d teh tempest was so great. Howbeit, they have been seen some days after united off Portigal in case they’ll come to the relief of Gibraltar, we are ignorant how they’ll succeed…
9 I was reported on board the ships in the road last night, that his R. highness, Count D’artois was to part from St. Roche this morning for Cadiz and from thence to Madrid where he designed to sejourn some days and after return to the Court of Versailes….
10 At 8 this morning, a general signal was made to the fleet to clear ships and put ourselves in order of Battle, as the English fleet was signalized to be near hand. These orders were Immediatly executed. At 11 his highness the prince of Bourboon accompanied by 4 aids des Camps came on board the active to view a Company of his regt. which was near 3 years on board said ship. My Capn. present’d me to his highness as he did the Gentlemen of the major state. At 12 he parted, having Given 25 Guineas to Capn. Longeval to distribute among his men. He inform’d us that Count D’artois part’d from St. Roche this morning for Cadiz. His highness the prince of Bourboon is a man of about 25 years, fresh Coloured, fair hair, large white eyes, a large high & hawked nose, well made, of a fine stature, about 5 ft. 10 Inches english standard…..
About 5 in the aft. it began to freshen, the firmament became darken’d and an aspect of rain ensued. About 7 it began to blow very hard, and there fell an abundance of rain by Intervals which continued all night, blowing and raining accompanied with flashes of lightning in such a manner that we all Immagined it to be the last general dissolution….
11 Early this morning we perceived that the St. Micheal Cap. Horimo, a Spanish ship of 64 guns, sprung her mizen mast and drove from her anchors by the violence of the Storm down under the fort of Gibraltar, right opposite the town, where she struck near 8 and a half this morning. When the English took I may say possession of her and made prisoners of the crew, the storm happilly abated about 9 o’clock. For had it continued two hours longer, we would infallibly lost, as several others, which at this time were in the utmost distress and danger and Crittical position on account of bad anchorage and the actual position of the wind. An-other spanish ship of 80 Guns had her foremast broken about 5 feet over deck, her bowsprit dislodged and carried off the ship, her main top & top top gallant blown down and shivered into splinters, and her main yard heaved over board, which was kept from floating away by the Cordage. 14 or 15 other ships of the line drew their anchors, some the distance of a leagure and others less. At 2 in the aft. a Spanish ship of 64 leaving a buoy to her Cable got under sail & by great difficulty got clear of the forts of Gibraltar and dipped into the Mediteranean, ’tis supposed that she went to Malaga bay as being the first place for Anchorage. At 4 o’clock, the forts of Gibraltar began to play on a ship of the line and a frigate which had been drifted with shot of them which perceiving they Immediately hoised sails and by the greatest pains they further’d themselves from the Enemy’s fire within which they were to a good Distance e’er they Changed their Station, not having receiv’d a single shot on board of Either. At 7 and a half a frigate hoised sail, the wind being then by its position a little favourable by half a point, and disengaged herself from the impending danger by being well Conducted, and came to better anchorage…the night Approaching, and the lines having Commenced to fire on teh aforesaid part of the forts, the English abandon’d theirs, and by this means the ship & frigate were relieved frm their thraldom and Came to their anchors in a place of greater repose & less danger than the former, by the favour of the moon, which shone very bright that night; and the wind having varied more than one point on their favour….the Majestieux which was driven into very deep water hoised sail about 5 o’clock and came to good anchorage. The Bretagne done the same and several others which would have infallibly fallen under the forts had the storm continued one hour longer, and in Consequence taken or sunk, for by their situation and the actual position of the wind, they were rendered incapable of working out into the Mediteranean without being at least well tattered and shattered by the batteries on the point of Europe and the new mole. The Active was near being board’d last night about 11 o’clock by the Bretagne as she pass’d by us training her anchors. Thus, my Dr. friend, ’twas a dismal sight to behold so many fine ships in the greatest danger, of falling a prey to the Enemy, being dashed to pieces one against another, or against the rocks near the old mole; of being blown up by the Enemy’s fire, or at least shattered into splinters by the forts, and no relief or human succour could avail: that of providence only expected. The Shreeks and Cries of the Saillors in different Tongues & dialects damning and swearing; Borcas with all his Western Caves & cellars open making a Confused noise in the ship’s tackle; add to these the darkness of the night with rain and lightning in abundance, were not all these (whose horrors I cannot paint in a manner sufficiently well) Capable of terrefying the most hardy tar and warior.
At 5 and a half a frigate Came Down the Streights from the English fleet and Anchored at the point of Europe…
12 We had no view this morning of the aforesaid frigate, but we saw very plain three armed merchant me at anchor at the point fo Europe and a fourth, lying in Close under the forts, supposed a ground, which if true, will be beatten to pieces in a short time as the breakers ran there very high at this moment. These 4 ships, You’ll observe, my friend, Came down the Streights last night and the English fleet with teh rest of their Convoy, all which dipped into the Mediteranean, except these 4 already named at Gibraltar, where they remained hovering in Mull-bay all this morning. At 7 and a half we observed a sail in the Mediteranean working up for Gibraltar supposed to be the same frigate that entered last night. From 8 till 12 two of the ships which lay before Gibraltar were towed into the port, or close to the quay by boats, as the weather was calm in all appearance to unload them for the Immediate relief of the Garison, which in all probabillity is at prest. in great need of refreshments. At 1 o’clock We observed some sail hovering in mull-bay; at the same hour we were Informed that the English fleet & Convoy were still in Ocean near Cape Spartel, and that they were dispersed by yesterday’s storm and that of the preceding night. At 5 aft. there arrived 5 sail of merchant ships from the Mediteranean who came to an anchor at the new mole with the rest…
13 At 9 and a half this morning, upon an Express that the English fleet & Convoy were Observed in the mediteranean, a signal was hoised on board the General for the fleet to weigh anchors and pursue the Enemy. Between 12 and 1 o’clock all the ships were in readiness and the most part of them under sail; at 5 we were clear of the point of Europe, and no sooner, for the wind was very slack; by 6 o’clock we had view of three sail of the Enemy from Deck & of a great number from the mast’s head, upon which a signal was made to the Chasing ships to pursue them and observe their motions, force & position, if possible. Night approaching, we Immagined that they betook themselves to Malaga-bay and by the favour of the night might shun us and return to gain the streights of us, upon which the signals were made to the fleet to surround them by drawing themselves up in the figure of an half moon or Cressent, which was executed, but we were mistaken, not having taken a single fish in the last line which we made; tho’ our sean remain’d whole. Thus we Continued on the last tack untill 12 at night at which time we were arrived a little distance below malaga when a signal for the Starboard tack was made being very near the land or the spanish Coast…
14 We were not above an hour on the last tack, before we were board’d in a calm By the St. fernando a spanish ship of 80 Guns Capn. Gaston; but fortunately no Damage ensued to either party from this accident. The currents which run always sensibly in thsi part of the mediteranean, were the cause. We were not above 6 minutes e’er we Disengaged ourselves and shove them off. At 9 o’clock we fel in with an English brig, whic had her main tops hoised away by the late hurricane, whic occasion’d her to loose way of the rest, on sight of which two spanish pinks and an armed Brigantine bore down to board her, but e’er they came up close to her, whe hoised up the English Colours, fired a gun and struck the Colours Immediately. Thsi little Brig, which deserved well the name of a Windfall, was a poor object in recompence of the St. Micheal of 64 which we had already lost. We were all this day working towards the streights in order to keep the Enemy from gaining them. Our line Consisted actually of 46 ships of line, a great number of frigates, chebecs, cutters, fireships, being in all about 90 sail. During the whole day we had a perfect calm and you are to observe that tho’ we intended to gain the streights of the English, we nevertheless steered for the Coast of Barbary, having in the morning 26 sail in view, and at 11 no one single ship…
15 All the last night and this morn. very calm weather. At 10 the Enemy were signaliz’d by the advanced Division. At 11 we hailed a french ship who inform’d us that an English ship of first rate and 3 ships of the Convoy perished in the bay of Cadiz by the late hurricane. At 12 we were on a paralell with the river Canaile a good distance below Malaga. We now in vain pursue an Enemy who divert themselves at our expence. They fly us when they please, and in like manner, appear before us…the weather began to in the aft. the winds blow, and the seas arise…
16 This morning and all the day it blew very fresh. I have been sea sick almost the whole day. No acct. of the English fleet. In the aft. we veered about, having been down in the Mediteranean 34 leagues.
17 It blew fresh and the sea ran somewhat high, the motion of the ship had so good and affect on me, as to make me Vomit, which eased the pressure on my heart. At 12 o’clock we were only 12 leagues from Gibraltar. At 3 o’clock a signal was made for veering as the wind did not serve for passing the streights. We suspect the English to have sailed out in the Ocean, if so we shall hear no more of them…
18 At first light this morning, we Discovered the English fleet again between us and Gibraltar without their Convoy which they sent off last night for said port. Immediately a signal for Chasing them was made to the fleet, which the English also having Immediately perceived rallied their ships and drew the up in line & order for battle in a very short time and in a surprising manner, being at that time about 3 leagues from teh streights. We, on the other hand, strove to draw our ships into a line of Battle and Order, according to the several divisions, and at the same time to close the Chase which was very difficult to effect, as we lay scattered here & there in a Confused manner. Whilst we were thus effecting to draw up our ships in order of Battle; the English fleet waited our nearer approach, and admitted us to come within a league of them: but that we should have no advantage here, they disappointed us by hoising up their top sails, and in less than an hour they were near 3 leagues ahead of us; thus, they passed through the streights and we in pursuit of them. The Invincible, the Robust with two other french ships and one spanish chased them very warmly, but were forbad by a signal from the General to purseu them Imprudently. The English fleet seems at prest. to Consist of 34 ships of line and two frigates. Observe that one of their ships which lay at Gibraltar attempt’d to pass the streights after the rest, but finding us advanced so as to Cut her off, she veered about and went back to Gibraltar where she remains in surety with the St. Micheal and the Convoy….the port of Gibraltar, which 10 days ago made no great figure, could now boast of her fruitful numbers of as fine trading ships as any port of Europe could produce. Uncill dark we had view almost of the fire from the lines on the deaf rocks of Gibraltar. AT 8 o’clock we head’d the Capes Spartel & trafalgar, and pursued the Enemy all night, now in Ocean..
You’ll observe here, my Dr. friend, that in the article of the 11 inst. I told you that the St. Micheal, which was drifted down to Gibralter, struck on her arrival there: nevertheless she receiv’d no great damage, being low water when she struck. The next day, the English having discharged her Burthen so as to bring her a float at high water, they Conducted her down to the new mole, where she remains at prest. with the ships already mentioned in this days article…
20 As soon as the purple morn ushered in the day, and e’er phebus had time to mount his guilded chariot, we had view of the English fleet, on sight of which Don Cordova signalized to the fleet to give them Chase. The English observing our motions, drew themselves up in line of Battle, and waited our approach having in all but 42 sail of which 34 were ships of line of which number again 11 or 12 were ships of first rate. At 11 o’clock we were about a league windward off them. Between 3 & 4 in the aft. our line was well drawn up also in the judgement of the Connoissieurs, being at that time about two shots distance from the English line. The English seduced us all the day, leting us gain on them so as to admit only an equal number of our ships to come up in front with theirs; the rest which did not sail well lying a league and half, for the most par, behind, which were at least 8 in number and two frigates that had no share in the battle. The weather was fair and the breeze gentle, so that no warrier could desire better for an Engagement. In fine, Monsieur de la Motte Picquet at the head of our line commenced the battle near half after 5 on the first ship in the English line of equal force with the Invincible, which she Immediately return’d. The Canons roar on each and the heavens are fill’d with the smoke. ‘Thus the fire descend’d ship for ship by gradation to the last ship in the English line which lay on a paralell with the Active. At 5 o’clock I gave the crew a general absolution by my Captain’s orders…the Active & Bienaime which were the two last ships in our line that partook of the battle, Commencen’d their fire about 40 minutes after 9 on the two last ships in the English line by the light of the moon. The Bienaime fired only a few Guns; the Active only 4 broadsides when the English Croud’d their sails, & sheer’d off falling with the wind in their poops. About 11 o’clock, the fire Ceased which was well maintained by each party almost the space of 5 hours by upwards of 20 ships on each side. We spent the rest of the night pursuing them by the light of the moon, which shone very bright all night…. The Indien after she receiv’d two broadsides withdrew and lay backwards being afraid of being sunk….we had not a man kill’d nor wound’d by the Enemy’s fire, nor even the mark of a shot on board. Four men and a swabber receiv’d light Contusions in their legs & feet from the Carriages, and a gunner burnt on teh Cheek by the fire of his piece. Thus so far for this famous battle which was fought off Cape Spartel about 12 leagues S.W. which was in no wise Dishonorable to the English, and for the better understanding thereof, I shall here give you a plan….
21 Early this morning we had view of 22 sail of the English fleet being about the distance of 8 Leagues off. At 3 aft. we lost view of them, not withstanding we still made way after them, the day passed without anything of moment. Fine weather….at 8 a signal was made to lye too & drop the pursuit…
22 A part of the last night and all this day were spent in the articulation of 1000 great Boogers and as many large fouters after the English; because they die not remain to withstand the fire of 47 ships of line with a great number of Chebecs and frigates, and suffer themselves to be cut up as a Butcher Cuts up a veal, who but some hours before drained the last drop of blood from teh Innocent victim. no, no, no,! The English left us to dream of something else: to dream of returning to winter quarters, ’tis supposed at Cadiz, for a signal was made last night at 8 o’clock for lying too, and drop the pursuit in Consequence…
The Spanards, tho, not Esteemed the politest people of Europe, gave on this last occasion, a very singular Instance to prove the Contrary: for having escorted the English fleet, I might say, 30 leagues in the Mediteranean, afterwards through the streights, and 20 leagues in teh Ocean to the S.W. of Cape St. Vincent, they saluted them e’er they parted with powder and ball, which Compliment the English generously returned in a like metal & Element, which not only kill’d some spanards, but also damaged their ships… We have at prest. 43 persons sick on board the Active, who would make you tremble, my Dr. friend, by their aspect and prest. Condition, being just brought out of a hell hole, where they lay on the cables these days past during the Chase, and where they were almost sufficated on acct. of being covered by the hatches. I confess’d and anointed last night a Serjeant & Coroporal of Boulie’s Regt. one of whom I found almost drowned in the Cable pit (where he plunged himself in the heat & rage of his sickness) as I made my visit, and by drawing him out of it, I thus prolonged the poor fellow’s Life…
The Carpenters and other mechanics on board are at work all this day, puting & seting all things to rights which were removed to clear the ship for battle; some seting up partitions, others nailing Canvas to Screen the Inferior officer’s beds, whilst others again are Employ’d packing up the small arms, such as musquets, pistols, Bayonets, Cutlasses. In the aft. at 5 and a quarter the General signalized to the fleet to make good the first port, and in a short time after he hoised another signal indicating that Cadiz was the place of Rendevous in case of Separation. The weather became Calm in the aft. and remained so during the night.
23 We had this morning a light breeze of wind, which did not continue Very long e’er it became calm. At 11 the General signalized several ships successively to know their Conditions with respect to provisions. Each ship answered for the number of days by the nearest Calculation.
24 At 7 and a half this morning a serjeant of Boulie’s Regt. expired of a malignant fever whom I saw enterred at 8 o’clock. At 2 in the aft. a marine soldier Died suddenly (after taking his soop) without the rites, not being advertized, I exhort’d my Youth to Confess, at 10 and a half this morning; but he being then unwilling I left him to reflect on’t, but he deceived me. I saw his body lanched into the deep at 3 having perform’d the usual Ceremonies. At 12 this day we were by Calculation 16 leagues off Cadiz bearing S.W. At 1 o’clock threre sprung up a light breeze, but foul for our Destination.
25 We had this morning a sufficiency of wind; but alas! Contrary. At 12 we found our point right off the streights being carried away by the Currents during the Calms, which run sensibly rapid in these parts. We have at prest. 65 persons sick on board, of putrid & malignant fevers, common fevers and other Epidemical diseases, whose situation in their prest. Condition is doleful, and renders it a scene of melancholy aboard the ship by hearing the cries and Groans of these poor miserable wretches, who to complete their misery are half eaten you’d say by Vermin and lice. At 7 and a quarter one of our Chirurgeons died, being the third of his occupation we have lost since our Departure from Brest. A short time before his Death, I gave him an absolution, and the H. oils tho, not Confess’d for the 2nd day of his sickness he fell into a delirium, which was common to all that were sick on board. At 8 and a half I performed the last office & saw him pierce the deep, after which I confess’d and anointed a soldier of Boulies Regt.
You must understand, my friend, that about the 15 of Sepr. we receiv’d a Detatchment of 100 men of Boulies Regt. on board the Active which came from the lines having at their head Capn. Martel a German and Lieut. McCarty an Irish-man…
26 At 8 this morning Don Cordova hoised a signal for the ships that were weak in provisions, to retrench bread, water, for 15 days, in case the winds would Continue longer Contrary. At 10 we Came in view of land from the mast head. At 1 o’clock, Could see it very plain from Deck, black is the first land on the left before you enter the bay of Cadiz. I think ’tis name’d Sabina. The weather is very fine & the wind whic has fallen is unfavourable.
27 At 1 this morning, a Corporal of Boilie’s Regt. expired. At 1 and three quarters I arose and performed the last office. He was a German and a man of fortitude after having sustained and suffered a great deal by the violence of a malignant fever. He was at length hurried off the stage. I assure you, my Dr. friend, that I have veen more sorry for the Death of my poor Corporal than for the death of 100 other Sprats of men… At 7 o’clock we came in view of the mountain which I think is named Meda of Medine lying E of the town of Medina Sidonia, being then by Computation about 14 leagues from Cadiz. This mountain is perhaps the only one in Europe and perhaps also on the Globe which is seen at the greatest distance at sea. I have heard Mariners say, they saw it at the distance of 46 leagues. Howbeit, I saw it at more than 30 leagues distance… the wind coming fair we came to an anchor near 8 o’clock, about two leagues out in the bay from the port of Cadiz. At 6 o’clock, a saillor died whom I absolved in the article of Death & anointed. He was delirious almost during his sickness. Near 7 I performed the last office for him, after which his body was shoved out into the deep. Very fine & serene weather we rode all night at anchor.
28 I visited our sick as usual this morning whom I foun din general some-what better. At 11 the wind (tho quite slack, having varied), we weighed anchor and by the help of the Current and a very light air of wind we Came into the harbour by great pains, where we let go our anchors at 6 in the aftn. about the distance of a mile from the port lying right opposite it, between port St. Mary’s and port Real…
29 I visited our sick this morning who are greatly revived & refreshed by the Land air. Nothing happened this day worth Inserting….
30 At 4 and a half this morning I arose, & prepared myself to accompany our sick to the Hospital in Cadiz who were 49 in number. We were not above 5 minutes in the hospital before one of our sick a Canoneer fell into the Agonies of Death, whom I absolved by the authority of J.C. and afterwards adminsitered him the Extremunction and in a short tiem after he expired. So after leaving and seeing all the sick placed in the hospital, I returned on board at 10 and half……
At 2 aft. I went to St. Mary’s town situated on the N. side of the bay & town in City of Cadiz, which is Considerably large & Very handsome for the most part, situated on the right side of the River Gaudalete which is deep enough for a large Brigg; but the bar at the Entrance of the bay is very dangerous with sands & and shoals in many parts of it, which occasion that very few ships of any Considerable Burthen venture it, Chasing rather to lye in the bay where they load & unload from & for this port. I said that this town is Considerably large and handsome: the main-street which is a full half-English mile in length is beautiful, Containing a vast number of fine hotels and Charming edifices. The street is wide & neatly paved, having gang-rays on each side 8 feet from the walls of very fine slate. It contains a great number of other handsome streets, several fine Buildings, such as churches, Hotels & Hospitals. At the N. end of the main street, you’ll find the town walk or mall, which the Spanards Call Meda, on which are three rows of Elmn trees which form a double walk in the following manner……
Near 7 o’clock, as I walk’d alone in a back street near the quay, a young Damsel who was not at all ugly attacked me to buy her , saying I hould have her at a moderate price as having no cock at home for her. I at the Conceipt of the young wench, & left her to dispose of her pullet and of herself to some other, for I want’d neither the one nor the other. You’ll observe again that this town seemed very agreeable to me. It suplies the Town of Cadiz with water which is brought them daily in large boats which the french Call Becasse, that is to say a Wood-cock…
31 At 3 in the aft. I went to Cadiz to get Candles & Wafers for the altar, which being provided, I walked almost through all parts of the City. At length I found myself on the publick walk which resembles that of St. Mary’s, with this Exception thta the trees here are at prest. too young to form a good shade, but the seats and pedestals are superior to them of the former, being composed of white marble. At the W. end of this Meda, I found a Cistern and Bason of white marble of Curious workmanship, projected by a french Ingineer, which Cost the City 2000 , Sterling. The Crafty Engineer having received his reward the day after the work was seemingly Completed, fled away; and the Cistern failed of producing water (a Convenience so much desired and so useful for the Cytizens) in 4 days after. The Ingineer having left or poured a certain quantity into it, which being exhaust’d or pour’d forth again by the Engines, it remained ever since dry, and as a monument of something great & well designed … from hence I walked to the sought side of the town where I saw a Cathedral not as yet finished, the Interior parts of which are composed of white marble as well, all the front and rear Entrances from the foundation to the highest stone. The whole scope of the Choir and high altar is Composed of Agate for 10 feet in height. All the pillars & pedestals throughout the rest or Body of the Church are of the same matter for upwards of 4 feet over teh floor. This agate is a kind of stone of a brownish hue resembling marble, but by far more pretious, which is found at Cape de Gatte in the province of Grenade on the Coast of the Mediteranean sea, where ’tis found in abundance. This Church when finish’d will surpass any other Church in Spain, its size Considered (which is not altogether vast) and interior beauty, for its Variagated forms, arches, sculpture…
At a very small distance form this Cathedral I saw the Area where the bull feasts are kept, and the Amphytheatre all around it. On my return towards the E. end of the Meda, I observed a Stately Edifice. To wit, the Custom house, which in fact is an Embelishment to the City, and bears the finest view possible of the road & port. In fine, Cadiz is a neat & well built City, situated on the north end of an Island which is about 4 English miles in length, and near a mile in breath, and in some parts wider, at the S. end of which there’s a Considerable town named Laisland, to the East of which there’s Another small Island about the distance of a mile having a small town on it named la Carague, whose beauty Consists in the Splendour & magnificence of his Majesty’s Magazines of Naval Stores, Royal Cordery and Hospitals, all which merit attention. But to return to Cadiz, its streets are narrow which is not to be admired when the Intense heat of the Climate is considered. The streets for half the City, to wit, that part of it which lies next the port, are neatly flagg’d; the rest are pav’d with round pebbles. In this City, may be found also several fine Churches ornamented with Statues of Gold & Silver: and as for Guildings, veils of Statues, Ornaments for Ecclesiastical functions, alters and alter Cloaths, nothing Can surpass them. I have been in several in this City and can assure you, my Dr. friend, I immagine that any of them had more riches in’t than all the Churches I have seen hitherto in france, were their worth togeather. In the next place there are several fine Hospitals and Charter houses, in the number of the latter a most magnificent one for the Education of poor young women, and in which they are taught to work at their needle on all sorts & kinds of cloths & stuff, but most in particular for the use of the Church…after which a great number of Hotels, several squares, a large Barrick for the service of his Majesty’s troops. There are only two gates to enter in this town or City. The one opposite the port or harbour on the E. side of town, by which those who enter from the side of the port must pass, and those who return from town to that side again must pass by an other gate about 40 feet distance from the former; by this means the populace never meet against each other and in Consequence less room is given them for Conveying Counterband goods. Over these two gates may be seen & ready the following words in large Characters ingraved, taken form the 120 psalm: “Deus Custodiut Introitum tuum: – et exitum tuum”. The 2nd Gate or 3rd if you will, but more proper the 2nd is placed towards the sought side or end of the town, by which there’s access to the Country along the Island: over the latter are several inscriptions and Arms which I had not time to take an Inventery. In this part the town is well Defend’d by out works of Circumvallation. It may be not amiss to give you my Dr. friend a better Idea of Cadiz And of its invirons by way of plan…..
NOVEMBER 1782
1 This being the day of all saints, a great festival, I remained on board to Celebrate mass and sing vespers for my flock. The day closed without leaving a subject worth Inserting.
2 Being the day of all souls, I Celebrated mass for the souls in purgatory according to the Dogns and doctrine of the Roman Catholick Church and her rites, which I both hold & believe. At 3 in the aft. a young volunteer fell out from one of the portholes in the St. Barbe, where he held a fishing line in his hand, the alarm was made, and we Immagined he’d be lost for he knew not how to swim, and would infallibly, had it not been for the activity of two saillors who Cast themselves from teh ships poop and Caught him as he was ready to sink. The boats which were alongside the ship came to their succour and took them up…
3 I celebrated mass at 11 and a half for ’twas the Saboth day. The aft. became dark and there fell some showers of rain…
4 At 10 o’clock, a saillor, as he was mounting to the main yard, fell through the Cordage by accident on deck, by which he received a violent contusion on the jaw bone, but no fracture; we sent him in the aft. to the king’s Hospital. At 3 in the aft. I went to Cadiz to leave my foul linnen with a laundress an Irish woman from Waterford. You’ll observe, my Dr. friend, that this
was a great festival day in this City and throughout all Spain if I’m not mistaken, to with, the feast of St. Charles, whom the Spanards name St. Carlos. The forenoon was spent in Devotion & prayers to the Holy Saint but the aftn. was far otherwise employed & spent, to wit, at Bull feasting. Howbeit, I mean not here to Censure a whole nation (as being a stranger) by saying such amusement is rediculous or is not: ’tis a Custom in Spain and believe it well to have been Introduced them formerly by the Romans, which they still keep and maintain by tradition. ‘Tis moreover an amusement purposely designed for the fairer sex, who take great pride in seeing their Cavalero’s overset, nay, but perhaps gored, and his horse in like manner by so furious an animal as a horned mad bull. Having been Informed of a spectacle of this nature, Curiosity let me to the place I was to occupy on the Amphitheatre, I went to be a spectator, and can give you the following relation of what I saw…
The area or place where these brute animals are fought and at length slain by the human race, is a large Court or place forming eight Angles, and in Diameter upwards of 120 English Yards by Computation, level as possibly can be, and strewed over with sea sand. The outsides of the area are raised in Amphitheatres to an Elevation of 35 feet as near as I can judge, which mounts by gradation from the area to the highest Gallery, as it might be Call’d, where the spectators sit during these bloody scenes, and arranged so well that every person cna behold the scene with as much ease as those who sit in the Galleries of the play-houses in London or Dublin, cna behold them of another nature and by far more edifying. ‘Twas now 4 in the aft. when I was conducted to the 3rd Gallery where I was seated in the midst of a Company of Spanish Laidies who made a beautiful figure, for they had the wished for gifts of nature in general, and the advantage of a Costly dress which gave a gain to the bounties of nature an Extraordinary lustre. I had not been above 5 minutes in this choir of female angelic creatures, e’er I saw a large double door fly open almost opposite me, through which there entered to the area a large huge black bull, which had a bell hung from his neck and thus peaceably preceded nine others of a redish hue across the area too another door of the same nature & form right opposite the former into which he Intered before his Companions; having thus deluded them into a place made designedly for their security under the Amphitheatres, he’s set forth from them that are destined for slaughter & battle, & victims to the blade of a subtle Enemy and led to his stall by his Owner’s servant. In fine, the hollow trompet sounded the Charge! three Cavalero’s, or horsemen were mounted in the Court by this time, each having in his right hand a pole of Cedar wood about 9 feet in length, at one end of which there was a lance fixed of near an Inch in length, who remained at a small distance from each other waiting the bull’s Coming forth. At the sound of a trumpet one is admitted to bound in open air – out he starts! The sight of the spectators & their Clamour render him more furious; his eyes are like globes of fire, which being added to his animated strength and savage ferocity threaten Immediate death: on he rushes to gore the next horse & man! but the artful Cavalero on his near approach stung him on the shoulder plate or saddle with his lance, which galled him in such sort that he sprung off on one side and made his second assault on the next rider in the list who served him as the former. The first Cavalero being thus freed from the asault, spured up his horse and rode through the area cuting the figure of a crescent by the course he made, till at length he fell in the rear of the list. The 2nd Cavalero performed as the former and so did the 3rd which Continued for several rounds each in his turn. You are to observe here, that after he made three or four rounds & sallies on the horsemen, both his Courage and fierceness seemed abated and to provoke further so galling an Enemy seemed daunted. After giving the first Instance of this nature, he’s attacked by 8 or 9 foot-men and the horsemen or Cavaleros retire and shun him for the future if they can, as appeared to me…. These young men or runers who are bred up to this occupation are slender bodied, well made, and of a surprising swiftness and keen address. They run before the bull Carrying in their hands each a flag of stuff or silk of various dies, one a red, another vellow, a third green, a fourth purple, Crimson, which they cast at the bull still holding it by one Corner and trains it after them to Entice him the more to pursue them with speed & fierceness. Whenever he pursues them closely, as is frequent, so that they be in danger, they generally take refuge for a moment in a place designed for their safety at the foot of teh Amphitheatres all around; being once hid from his sight, he pursues no longer the object hidden. Having others just by who always keep him in motion; for he has no sooner made one retire to shelter than he’s attacked by another even several at once. After diverting themselves and the spectators for a Considerable time in the aforemention’d manner, one of teh most active and handy of them takes in his hands two darts which are placed in wood Composed partly in the form of a tennis racket, but resembles much better a may Garland composed of Bows, on which are tied smal packets of powder with a train on fire, and runing with one in each hand alongside the bull, he seldom fails of planting them at the first attempt in the bull’s saddle, or rather the Shoulder plate, being once placed in his hide, the fire soon Communicates and the powder begins to blast by Intervals as the train Communicates it fire, which enrages the bull more & more and makes him bellow with madness … after the above opperation, the Capn. or principal of these runners advances towards the bull with a pavilion of silk in one hand and a well tempered blade in the other Resembling a broad sword, but quite streight, cuts on either side, and about 3 and a half feet in length. Lo! he thus aimed approaches the Bull, even sometimes stands between his horns and seeks the death of the Brute. He presents his Colours before his eyes to delude & betray him of the object, subject an weapon which are all three conspired already seeking his fall & death: the brute stoope his head, menaces the Colours and seems every moment ready to dart on’t and destroy it, whilst the crafty Gladiator manages his Colours with one hand, so as to keep him from plunging on’t, and by the other, he seizes the opportunity of presentig his thirsty blade between his horns, and by taking the best aim, with grace he plunges it down between his shoulder plates up to the hilt. The Brute plunges, the sword has already pierced his heart & far beneath it. He plunges in vain, he staggers! the victim falls! he vomits forth his mought seas of blood; but from his ears & nostrills it flows in rivers. Shouts of Joy and acclamation with Claping of hands reach the Clouds; he no sooner falls than one of the runners approaches him with a small short and sharp blade in his hand with which he gives him a stab precisely between the horns, and the remaining part of life Immediately starts out of the Brute! a whistle is blown! at the sound of which the Doors fly open! in came three firery , foaming prancing steeds, harnass’d and yoked, whipt lashed & slashed to the spot where the victim lay. The Central horse had on his back two pavillions of red silk and above too small bells were hung from his collar; harnass & trapings which were beautiful & the richest I ever yet seen, being a kind of wrought tapestry; the other two had each but one pavillion on their backs of a Green silk, and as to the rest, to wit, harness bells & trapings, they differed nothing from the former; their attendants tied a rope round the horns of the slain victim to which they hooked a chain from the yoke behind the horses, which was no sooner done than whiping, slashing, galloping & dragging ensued so that in the space of 10 seconds I could not see nor hear more of the victim. Here no time is lost. He’s no sooner out of the area than the doors close up with rapidity, and the hollow trumpet sounds the near approach of an other not less mad or less fierce than the former, which continues in the aforesaid manner untill the last is kill’d and carried away. You must observe that when a bull is slain by the first attempt of the Gladiator, the Capn. and his runners are amply gratify’d by a shower of Dollars which is shed down from the Governours hands, who has a fixed lodge on the Amphitheatres more Brilliant than the rest all round. This I believe is all they have for their Labour. Here I saw 9 bulls slain. The first Bull, tho, fierce hurt neither horse nor man. The 2nd Gored a horse and left him in a sad condition treading on his own bonels and guts; his rider too was near sharing a like fate, but having the good fortune of being attacked near a place of refuge, he escaped untuched. Teh 3rd like the first done no mischief. The 4th hurt one of the runners by a bunt of his head, on his back as he ran over him, which happened as follows: As the aforesaid young man was runing in full Carreer towards the bull, his toe by a foul step, which he accidentally made touched his heel, and down he fell on his face and feigned himself as dead, not having time to rise and make his Escape; the bull being in that Critical moment too near him. His Companions seeing his situation, and the bull runing over him, deluded him away from returning a second time on him, by which means the poor young man was reliev’d from his thraldom and from the hornsof destruction and was thus freed from Death by his own presence of mind & the activity of his Companions. The 5th wound’d a horse in his hinder quarter. The 6th, tho, small, was wicked and fierce enough, whose horns were Clouted with Cork-wood, so that he could not destroy with them; the Doors and Gated fly open! in Came 3 Statues on the Area of Giant Size, 9 feet high, two of whom appeared for Ladies and the 3rd for a man all three well pomatted, powdered & dress’d. These statues were long Baskets inversed down on men by which they were covered; to the Buckles of their shoes over which a milliner’s block was placed and secured in such sort that it could not fall off. In the front of each basket there was a little hole or windown through which the Concealed person held a lance and never failed of giving the bull a stab of it as he approached to Gore him; besides add to these two buoys which were dress’d in the form and shape of little boys and placed in different quarters of the area, having a weight in the bottom so that when ever it received a shock, being elastic, it sprung back Into Its first position and always appeared very natural on foot. All these being prepared in a very short time, the trumpet sounds and the bull comes forth! He rushed on the small ones first to animate his Courage and next on the Giants male & female, not sparing the sex whom he several times overset and by the fall you could see the area fill’d with misty columns of powder safting in air as Smoke from the tube of a stove; this bull as he was light and slender ran a great deal. ‘Tis time to slay him, the chafing prances wait his fall; down he drops by the thirsty blade which recks with his gore, they enter and come with a quick pace to the spot where he has pour’d out the last drop of his blood, and drag him a way with as much speed as ever Minerva shot through the clouds, or Venus in her guild’d Car… The 7th wound’d a horse, but slightly. The 8th was attack’d by a Dog named Malos who held the animal by the ear which he never quitted before ’twas cut off by a knife, after which he was slain a novice… The 9th underwent the same fate as the first. ‘Twas now 5 and a half when he fell at which time this amusing bloody scene end’d. The spectators were numerous, not less than 15 thousand; after which been over, each descend’d and betook themselves to their respective quarters. Lastly observe, that when the bull has Gored a horse or kill’d a man that the spectators shout with joy, clap their hands & articulate with the greatest pleasure, especially the fairer sex, the following words: Bravo Tauro, Bravo Tauro…
My Dr. friend so far my account of the bull feast which I saw at Cadiz and Can assure you that I have not added a word to what I have seen, but what is really fact. And that you may understand the whole and Conceive it better I mean to give you a plan of the area & amphitheatre where I saw what I have described hitherto) in the best manner that I possibly can…
5 I returned on board this day about 3 o’clock in the aft. and saw nothing worth Inserting during the rest of the day. There was another bull feast. this aftn. in Cadiz, but my Inclination had no efforts for seeing such tragical scenes of blood & slaughter of men, bulls & horses….
6 The Suffisante & Geurieur french men of war sailed out this morning for Malaga to protect a Convoy hither fromthence, which is daily expected.
7 This day Monsieur Kerhoir our 2nd Captain a Cityzen of Morlaix in low Brittony took his leave of us being ordered to return back to france to take the Command of a ship. He’s to remain at St. Mary’s untill the 12 when he’ll set off in Company with Monsieur du Guichin…
8 No Events this day worth Inserting….
9 All this day passed without much noise untill 9 and a half at night, at which time the men were hawling up some bullocks on board, one of which by plunging, as they wafted him up in air, lost one of his horns, by which he fell into the sea, but luckilly no one was hurt by the fall; the men on board who only heart the noise in the water Immagining it to be one of the men who fell Overboard, cryed out in french: “Un homme ala mer”. I was at the moment just ready to go into my bed; but being alarmed by the Cries I ran up to the Council Chamber with all possible speed, in order to give him the absolution in case of further danger; I was no sooner arrived there, than I discovered the mistake of an alarm so false; upon which I returned to my Chamber in the H. St. Barbe; went to bed and left them to seek after a bullock which had now but one horn….
10 This being the Saboth, I celebrated mass for my flock. In the time of vespers, there fell a shower of rain…
11 The mornings and Evenings in this Climate begin to grow cold. The weather both lively & smart. In the aft. I went to the City where I came acquainted with a Mistress Heveron from near Kilkenny in Ireland. Near 8 I went on board.
12 The late recovery of the Infanta of Spain from a fit of sickness has been the occasion of this day. Being kept a festival and of rejoicement in town, all the Spanish ships have been dress’d in their colours. The Robust a french ship done the same in honr. of the union, and repeated in thundering peals near 4 in the aft. The weather fine and withall lively…
13 Our major Chirurgeon who has been ill these 6 days past & being now destitute of reason, in fact, in a delirium, whose shreeks & cries are dismal to be heard and Capable to affright the most hardy, was sent from board at 11 and a half this morning to lodgings which were prepared for him in town….
14 I went to town in the aft. to buy a pair of shoes, and by chance I came acquainted with one Robt. Callaghan master shoemaker an Irish man from Cork, who treated me with a great deal of Civility & politeness, and his wife nothing less. Whilst I was waiting on the quay for our boat to return on board I was accost’d by one Commins a Carmelite fryar from Galway in Canaught with whom I had an Interview of above an hour e’er I parted…
15 At 6 this morning we sent 19 sick from our board to the hospitals of St. Mary’s. At 3 and a half Mr. Commins & Mr. O’Brien Chaplain of the bienaime came on board to see me; I went with these gentlemen Immediately to Cadiz & having given half a Guinea to Mr. Commins to buy me snuff, he turn’d a Corner at 8 o’clock, and since I have not seen either Commins, money nor snuff….at 8 and a half I returned on board…
16 The Malaga Convoy appeared this morning in the bay a great number of which Came to anchor opposite the port in the aftn…
17 The suffisante & the Geurieurs who sailed out the 6th inst. to protect the aforesaid Convoy, Came & anchored amidst the other ships of the line and several large ships of the Convoy in like manner, not having time nor weather to enter last night on acct. of a sudden calm….
18 I went to town in the aft. Saw nothing remarkable, but a frigate and some merchant ships which Came into the road between 4 & five in the aft. where they lay at anchor about a league from the port…
19 One of Gardes de Marine (being Indisposed by a fever was sent early this morning to Lodgings at St. Mary’s) named Trezenne from near pontivy in low Brittony Between 4 & 5 in the aftn. died in the french Hospital of Cadiz of a malignant fever. Monsieur Rio our major Chirurgeon, native of Lorient in low Brittony, having been removed there form his lodgings some days ago…..
At 2 in the aft. Capn. Hartel and Lieut. mac Carty both of Boullies Regt. took leave of us, being ordered by their Colonel to garison in Cadiz for some time of one hundred men which they brought from the Camp on board the Active in the Bay of Algesiras. There were only 49 left to accompany them to Cadiz, the rest being sick in the hospitals, except four who died on Board…
20 This morning afforded no news worth Inserting. In the aftn. there were three English ships of Convoy conducted into Cadiz bay which were taken on their passage home from Gibraltar by the french frigate named N.
21 In the aft. I went to Cadiz, where I came acquainted with Mr. Quirk an Irish priest from teh Diocese of Ossory, in whose Company I spent three hours, and returned on board at 8 o’clock…
22 No Event this day worth Inserting….
23 I went to Cadiz after Dinner. At 4 o’clock I walked out of town to the distance of an English mile, on the new road, which is a delightful & pleasant walk, Being the only one leading to the town on account of its situation the road is fenced on each side by a stone wall of 4 and a half feet high for the distance of a mile; over which at every 12 feet distance there are Colomns of wood raised in Banesters in such a manner, that the footman as well as the horseman can feast his view on the Delightful and beautiful Gardens on each side, which you might say one in a perpetual spring in all the seasons of the year; the Cold nor frost not being here noxious to the most delicate plant or flower. Add to these extraordinary beauties that of finding at every 10 perches distance tryumphal gates, cross roads, walls and mills for pomping water which is conveyed form teh Bason or Recevoir throughout the whole garden, even to each small division, and plot by stone troughs or Conduits. The water is in like manner conveyed to the road to allay the dust & sand by the help of the hand pomps with the greatest ease and use of pleasure. In fine, nothing can gratify the eye better than a prospect of the gardens and the natural Conveniencies annexed thereto. Not for these beauties alone, the Cytyzens are Indebted to his Excellence Count O’Reily, but for a thousand others in the City wise government & good order, which were planed, ordered and put in Execution by the aforesaid.
24 Being the Sabbath day, I celebrated mass in Consequence. No Events worth Inserting only a plentiful fall of rain at night…
25 The morning dull & cloudy but dry. At 8 we were Informed that Count Diestaing was at Bayone the 13th Instant on his way hither, to take the Command of the United Naval powers…
26 No Events worth Inserting…
27 I went to Cadiz after Dinner to walk, and by chance came acquainted with father Dillon an Augustinian fryar from the Co. Mayo in Canaught, who resides in a Community of his order in Cadiz aged about 65 years.
28 It rained from 7 and a half this morning untill 12. The aft. became dry. Sent a letter by our boson to the Rev’d O’Brien on board the bienaime.
29 I remained on board all this day and no Events of Consequence occured..
30 Dull weather all the forenoon. After Dinner I went to Cadiz to walk and returned on board 8 at night….
DECEMBER 1782
1 From 2 o’clock this morning untill 5 there fell a prodigious quantity of Rain. The rest of the forenoon became very stormy, so that, no boat dare venture to pass from the ships to town. After 12 the seas began to fall and the winds to calm….
2 I neither heard nor seen anything this day worth Inserting…
3 I went to Cadiz after dinner, where I walked almost through every street in the City. Returned on board at my usual hour….
4 Being the feast of St. Barbara, the Cannoneers on board solemnized it, first by hearing mass at 11 o’clock, and by ful bumpers & aroar all the aft.
5 Nothing remarkable, but an aspect of good weather…
6 I went to Cadiz after Dinner, where I met with the Rev’d felix mac Cabe Chaplain to Monsieur de la motte piquette since the month of June in 1775 and parted him at the Cross of Maltha (where he lay that night) after I had drank my part of a bottle of good Chery…
7 Early this morning it began to rain, which continued very heavy untill 10 at night. The City was Illuminated in a beautiful manner, in honour of the Immaculate Conception…
8 Being Sunday and the feast of the Immaculate Conception, all the french ships in the road (except the sceptre which had only her foremast up) were dressed in their Colours, and in the aftn. when the signal was given, they saluted the General Don Cordova on Board the Conception with three rounds of 17 to each…
On our return to Cadiz after the Combat with the English fleet, we found the Sceptre in the Harbour of Cadiz on her return from the west Indies, where she was ill treated in the naval engagement when Monsieur du Grace was taken on board the Ville de paris. Having 81 English bullets in her masts and yards, and only one pipe of fresh water on her arrival here. She’s repairing her masts at prest. which is the cause that she could not partake of the pleasures of the day. She’s one of the finest ships I ever seen, mounting 80 Guns and sheathed in Copper…
9 All the spanish men of war in the harbour of Cadiz were dressed in their Colours this day, as the french ships were yesterday, in honr. of the Queen of Spain’s Birthday; several french ships in like manner, who saluted the General Don Cordova as yesterday. I went to town in the aft. where I saw but little worth Inserting, only Doctor O’Kelly an Augustinian fryar from Galway in Connought, with whom I conversed about five minutes. He lives at the same Community in town where father Dillon lives…
10 At 7 this morning a flag was hoised on board a spanish man of war, announcing to the Convoy bound for Toulon to put to sea, which they executed in Consequence. The wind is slack and they advance but slowly. In this Convoy are 4 or 5 holland trading Company ships, the finest I ever saw each of them full as large as a ship of line of 64. They, are all in mourning, I suppose, their officers died on the passage…the day becoming Calm they were obleidged to come to their anchors opposite the point of the harbour. The suffisante is gone also to Escort them apart of the way.
11 At 8 this morning the wind being favourable, the aforesaid Convoy got underway a 2nd time, and by 12 o’clock we had no longer view of them, having gained the point of St. Sebastian of our view. The weather very fine tho, a little sharp at the same time…
12 After Dinner, I went to Cadiz, where I came acquainted with a Mrs. Dougherty maiden name Commins, native of Carrick-on-Shure who washed for me During my stay in Cadiz bay.
13 This day on order of advice was sent us on board that there was an Inspector to come shortly to examine the Condition of the Active (by order of Count D’Estaing) and pass his judgement on her for making the Campaign of the west Indies or not…
14 Fine weather all the forenoon. The aftn. became cold and threatened rain. At 3 o’clock an English Brig a Cartel anchored very near us. At 5 I went with Mr. Jonathan Webb, officer on board her to know her News. Her Capn. and crew had an air of Rusticity, in a word they knew nothing, not even how to utter three words in their mother tongue without a fault. Having Remained about half an hour with them, we returned on board…
15 At 10 o’clock a new spanish man of war of 74 Guns arrived from Ferol in the harbour, where she anchored: I never saw a more handsome ship of 74. At 11 an Inspector came on board to Examine the Condition of the ship, named Segunda or Cegunda. Having performed the Duty he Came on, he dined and took his leave at 2 o’clock. The weather very dull.
16 I went to Cadiz after Dinner, where I saw his Excellence General O’Reily taking the air in his Coach, which was preced’d by two livery men on horseback, each carrying a naked broad swoard in his right hand whose points were poised in air, and pistols in the holdsters of their saddles. This you’ll observe is the Custum of Spain for a man of his Dignity. I returned on board at 8 at night…
17 We were overspread this morning by a thicker mist than I could expect in this Climate, in such a manner that one could not distinguish between two different objects at the distance of 10 yards, nor see a man of war at the Distance of 20 yards by any means. About 10 o’clock the sun began to dispel this veil of darkness and by 12 o’clock restored us a view of the firmament…
18 At 7 this morning several neutral merchant ships sailed out of the harbour having a fair wind and good weather. At 6 in the aft. Monsieur le Count d’Estaing arrived in Cadiz accompanied by several aids des Camps…
19 Near 8 this morning, the port saluted his Excellence Monsr. le Cont d’Estaing by a discharge of 4 Canon shots, as he passed by, going on board the Invincible. At 11 the suffisante and a spanish man of war return’d having escorted the Toulon Convoy into the Mediteranean, as may be seen the 10 Instant.
20 Altho, the morning was charming and pleasant, ’twas no small addition to its beauty to behold two spanish men of war sailing into the harbour and coming to their anchors, with 5 frigates, several bomb sketches, all which came from the bay of Algesiras. One of the men of war is the same which lost her foremast, maintop gallant & bowsprit the 11th of last October at night by the violent hurricane. Late in the aft. a Convoy from marselles, toulon arrived here and anchored in the bay right oppostie the town of Rota. At 1 o’clock we received an order to work the Active down to the Carraque for her reparation, the result appears that she’ll make the Campaign of the west Indies…
21 The morning dark & cloudy. At 8 and a half a wind began to blow fresh, and both the bay & harbour became in a short time disordered. The Convoy lye still at anchor, the wind refuses them access of returning into the harbour or road; about 9 and a half a boat was overset, by a rough havey sea, going from Cadiz to St. Mary’s; the Bienaime’s Boat and one from the Lion set off to their succour and happilly saved both the Crew & their Boat…
22 Fine weather, of which the Convoy profited so as to come down into the road opposite the port…
23 An order was sent this day to all the ships of line (the active only excepted) to take in provisions for 6 months and to keep themselves in readiness to sail on two days notice. About 4 o’clock in the aft. a frigate & a large ship supposed for a man came to an anchor in the bay about the distance of two leagues from the road or harbour…
24 At 7 this morning we began to weigh our anchors, and at 8 o’clock we got the ship under way for the Carraque. At 9 I closed a letter for Monsieur Labbe Sommers Chaplain to the Count de Menou governor of the Castle of Nantes. In the aft. we were Informed that the ship and frigate of which there’s mention in yesterday’s article, are of the Convoy of Brest, which at present lies at anchor at or near Cape St. Mary’s about 10 leagues from this harbour. The Active Came to an anchor opposite a small town named Trocadere situated on the east side of the road of Cadiz, a place for the Indian Company ships. Where we discharged our powder & sent it to the powder magazine on the opposite side of the bay or road.
25 So soon as the tide answered this morning, we had our anchors weigh’d and in a short time we arrived near the Carraque where we put all our guns, Bullets, Cordage, riggings, Lumber on board three Bellandres which came along side of us for said purpose…
26 No events this day worth Inserting….
27 An Order was signed this day by Monsieur le Comte d’Estaing, naming our Capn. Monsieur de Cillard de Suville to Command the Majestieux (now sheathed in Copper) that is, to be Capn. of his pavilion…
28 The Above mentioned orders arrived this day on board the Active and Another of the same date, naming Monsieur de Boloigne Lieut. en pie on board the active to Command said ship in Chief untill further orders. Monsieur Cillard received advice in his orders to take the first battery of the Royal Louis of 48 pounders and place them on board the Majestieu and put or send in their place them of 36 which are now actually on board said ship, which is ordered to be executed tomorrow…
29 Our Capn. went this morning on board the majestieu to chuse & name his Officers….
30 This day I closed a letter for the Marchioness of Lambilly directed to her Hotel in the City Rennes. The weather has been these 4 days past somewhat Cold but at prest. very fine…
31 I sent the aforesaid letter to the post by our servant mark. In the aft. we were Informed of the Boarding or Conflict of two french ships, to wit, the Diadem & the Censor, which happened on the 26 inst. on their way from Cape St. Mary to Cadiz, where they lay at anchor for some short time as we have been Inform’d. The Damage is very Considerable to each, but more that of the Censor than the former of which in particular we have not as yet received an exact account.
Our Butcher went this Evening into the mutton or sheep pen, from whence he drew forth the last poitonion which remained us, and to the great regret of our officers, he, in less than three minutes, drew with his thirsty blade, the last drop of blood from the Innocent animal whose name I remember was Martin, and in less than 30 hours after, we had not the least morsel of his relicks but the skin wooll & suet. Some of the officers lamented the death of Martin in the following manner, whilst the hungry gardes de marine rejoiced, and licked their lips as hungry dogs are wont at the sight of a piece of Carrion suspend’d in air above their reach…
“Helas! pauvre Martin, tu seroit bientot egorge; tu ne sais pas que vous etes apresent entre les mains du Bourreau; entre les mains de votre Enemie jure! oui, Martin, tu es devenu le Victime de toi meme, parsque tu es si gras! oui mon pauvre Martin, il faut mourir plus tot ou tard: la mort est la fin de nous autres, qui sont des hommes qui servoient sa majeste avec fidelite: et Comment pouvoit vous vous echape qui n’est que bete”.
In English
“Alas! poor Martin, Your throat will be in a short time hence perforated; you know not that your are at present between the hands of the Butcher, between the hands of your sworn Enemy! Yes martin, you are become the victim of thyself, because you are so fat! Yes my poor Martin, Death is inevitable sooner or later; Death is the final end of ourselves, men, who serve his majesty with fidelity: and how can it be that you who’s but an animal can escape.”
At hearing these words pronounced with such gravity as seemed the true dictates of the heart, I was ready to crack my Ribs with laughter. At the same time I perceived that some of the officers were not right well pleased with the butcher, because he took 3
JOURNAL OF
FR. JOHN KAVENAGH:
BOOK 11 (p. 133 to 182)
he took up three minutes to drain off the blood of Martin an old poitonion wether. Thus the year end’d by the fall of pour Martin from poitou.
JANUARY 1783
1 This New Year began with fine weather; my Dr. friend, the sun shone this day so warm that we could not bear its rays for 10 minutes on the Gallery of Our ship without Incuring the danger of being thrown into a hot fever and to avoid an evil so great, an Enemy so pernicious to our healths, we drew the Curtains. A great number of the officers belonging to the majestieu and their Chaplain a piedmontese dined on board our ship…
2 There was a distribution of three months pay this day on board for the major state only…
3 The weather very fine. I went after Dinner afowling with Monsr. Cillard son to our Captain, an dshot three large birds on the wing, out of a company of seven…
4 At 6 and a half this morning the Terrible began to work up from the Caraque into the road, having only about 8 feet of her bottom sheathed. In the aft. I went afowling and in my walk I met with the Chaplain of the Minione frigate who’s a Savoyard…
5 Being Sunday, I celebrated mass, the day excessive warm. Our Capn. brought his effects on board the majestieu in the aft. and slept on board said ship being then along side us, having veered her about to return into the road.
6 At 6 and a half the tide serving, the majestieu (which was now sheathed in Copper) worked up in the road towards pontall, where she struck and in likely to remain there untill the next spring tide. Altho ’twas very warm Yesterday, the heat was more intence this day, in a manner that I could not bear to keep my hand on a piece of Canvass, which was nailed on the Corner of our Gallery, for the space of half a minute. A wide Difference between this Climate and that of Brittony! We have flattered ourselves this time past with the news of peace, but find our hopes frustrated, as the Currier is silent…
7 In the morning there fell some showers of rain, after which the wind blew strong & high..
8 I went after Dinner to a little Island opposite the Caraque which is situated near that of St. Austin’s, in Company with Cap. Longeval, Monsr. Grouin Ensign and Count of Lasrazes garde de marine, where we diverted Ourselves the whole aft. and having remained there the whole aft. untill 8 at night for want of our boat, we were almost persuaded that we would spend the whole night there as well as the aft. For the admiral hindered the boat to pass for us, as such is the Custom in places of this nature after a Certain hour; but being by Chance near the Spanish guards we prayed them to hale the admiral to let the boat pass to take us up, which they did Immediately, and by that means the boat came & took us in, so we returned on board very Joyful of being rid of a Desolate Island…
9 I arose at 4 and a half and went to Cadiz to leave my foul linnen with my laundress. Dined at the sign of the three kings (alias) the Magi in Company with Monsr. Preville Volunteer from Brest. after which I came acquainted with several Irish men & some others, to wit, the Rev’d father Negan an Augustinian fryar from the Co. Roscommon chaplain to Ultonia’s Regt. in the Spanish Service, with Mr. Philip Roache from the Co. Wexford who resides at St. Lucar. “Calle de la plata a san Lucar” who made me some small presents and Invited me to go see him. I was Informed that he’s very Rich. With Mr. Martin Meagher from Golden Vane, Silver Stream, the flower of Ireland & Co. Tipperary, who lost a leg. I know not by what mischance, but to supply that defect he has a wooden one, an dmuch of the soldier in his eye…With Mr. O’Kelly an old Batcherlor from Dublin a man of great sobriety & steadiness…With Capn. Coffin of the nonpareille frigate or nonsuch, an american, who lately retook a french ship which had been taken by the English a few days before; but not as yet arrived here. Nevertheless he got her Insured yesterday for a very Considerable sum. His part of the prize being estimated to ,4,000 sterling. Capn. Coffin is a handsome man of a middle statue, of a seeming delicate Constitution. He pensions & lodges at la Calle nove No. 26. He gave me an acct. of Capn. Coffin whom I seen last june at father John Mehegan’s in Brest, laden with Tobacco from Alexandria bound for Nantes…
I had not been long in the Company of the aforesaid gentlemen taking a glass of punch before I perceived the Rev’d felix McCabe & the Rev’d Micheal O’Brien enter into our appartment in quest of me. And having Introduced them to the Company, they sat down and took a glass of punch with us and in a short time after the Company retired. I lay here at this Inn with Mr. McCabe, and after supper we had the Company of a Mester Chisel whom I took for an English-man. He spoke the English tongue very well, the Italien, french and spanish in like manner, and several other tongues of less acct. I remember he helped us to drink off a bottle of good malaga before we went to bed…..
10 When we arose this morning, we found ourselves in a sad Condition after th’oil & sallet which we eat yesterday & last Night at supper. I remain’d here for Dinner and returned on board at 5 and a half aft. This day has been so excessively warm that I suppose I never saw a day so warm in Ireland.
11 As I was going to Cadiz on teh 9th Inst. I saw the Diadem & the Censor in the road. The former lost one Corner of her Gallery, and a great quantity of the wood near her Bonsprit Carried away with the larboard bow, and her large anchor snapt into two parts near the fluke. The latter was left in a more shocking Condition, having lost all her stern from the top of her auning unto the port holes of the St. Barbe. In such a manner that one can scarse Immagine how she excaped form being sunk by the Conflict. No events this day worth Inserting only that the weather is Charming, the wind at S.E.
12 The morning was both fine & pleasant, but the aft. blew somewhat fresh. I went after Dinner to the Caraque Hospital to Confess a soldier of Bourbon’s Regt. whom I was Inform’d was dangerously ill. On my arrival into one of the apartments of teh hospital, I found a young man ready to Expire (belonging to the majestieu) speechless and Insensible of any Comfort; trembling & winding his arms were the only signs of life that remained. I absolved & anointed him Immediately, and afterwards was Conducted to another apartment where I confessed two soldiers of Bourbon’s Regt. and a young man of 20 years of age belonging to the Royal Louis. Here ‘twould make a man shudder to see the quantity of lice that were on all sides of these poor Creatures: o Tempora, o loca, o misery, o lice, I shall never forget the time & place where I saw ye! After I left the hospital, I was Conducted by a servant to the Hotel of Don Domingo Pavio, whose lady is of Irish extraction: and on my near approach, I declined to make a visit as ’twas then late, and thus defered making an acquaintance untill a more seasonable time. The Caraque is a small town built on an Island in which may be seen the King’s storehouses which are Elegant & superb; Docks, mast-yards & royal Cordery, one parish Church and a Considerable hospital with several other additions thereto. Over one of the town gates may be read the following latin Inscription in black Characters: “Tu regere Imperio fluctus hispane, memento”.
At 9 o’clock it began to rain, the wind at N.W. by W. but there fell no great quantity……
13 All the morning dull & heasy. At 8 o’clock an officer came on board, who Informed us that the french guards fired on the spanish guards last night in Cadiz, which the Spanards returned; and were it not for the activity of some french officers who stoped their proceedings, there would have been a great slaughter on each side; but it happily terminated with the loss of 5 french men and about a Dozen wound’d. The spanards on their side had 11 men killed and about 30 wound’d, all which was occasioned by jealousy and the misunderstanding of the Corporals of the guards. After Dinner, being informed that some sick persons in the hospitals of the Caraque were willing to confess to me, I went on sight to see them. On my arrival there I was informed that the young man to whom I adminsitered the sacraments yesterday was Dead since 9 o’clock in the aft. After I had Confessed two soldiers of Perche’s Regt. I found ’twas late, so returned on board at 6 o’clock.
14 After Dinner, I went to visit the sick in the Hospitals where I confessed but one only, after which I went to Laisland a town situated about an English mile from the Caraque, which is Considerably large, Containing several handsome streets of which teh main is a full half mile in length. Here may be seen a fine Church, a large Convent of Recolet fryars and their Church, a very fine Lodge for his Excellence Count o’Reily, with a a fine square and a good number of fine hotels, all which are the chief objects to be seen in this town.
15 I remained all this day on board, not having an opportunity of going to visit the sick. I could not fly fromt eh ship to the Island as I had not wings…
16 Capn. Longeval of the Detatchment of Bourbon’s Regt. with his men took leave of us at 8 this morning, and went on board the sceptre of 80 Guns by virtue of an Order received on board. At 10 o’clock, we received a Company of Hainault Regt. in Exchange from on board the sceptre. After Dinner I went to the hospitals where I Confessed 4 persons, three of whom were of the active. I returned on board near 7 o’clock in a spanish boat, the pilot of which I amply reward’d for his bounty & politeness…
17 I went this day again after Dinner to the hospitals where I found the sick all in general much better. E’er I returned, I confess’s two men, one from the City of Rennes and the other from near Vitre in the Province of Maine. I return’d on board in a spanish boat whose owner I gratify’d as before.
18 No Events this day worth Inserting….
19 I celebrated mass at 10 and a half for the Crew, for ’twas Sunday and after dinner I went to visit the sick at the Caraque, where I confess’d two persons one of whom, a Cityzen of Vannes in low Brittony. The other from Toulouse belonging to Bourbon’s Regt. At 6 o’clock I returned on board in the active’s Boat…..
20 At 4 and a half this morning I set of for Cadiz where I arrived at 7 and a half. On my coming to the house of Mrs. Dougherty my Laundress she Informed me that one of my shirts was stolen from her; and for to recompence my loss I gave her nothing for her pains with the rest. Poor satisfaction to….
On my return from her house, I was accosted by a spanish priest who (supposing me for a french Chaplain) Informed me that one of my Comrades was assassinated some days ago by some ill Inclined persons, who after they had perpetrated this unhumane action buried his Corps at low water in the sand on the side of Cadiz bay near pontall, which was discovered by the Ebbing and flowing of the Tide. Found & taken up yesterday and carried this morning to Cadiz where it was Decenctly buried after an office & solemn mass by a great number of the Clergy who assisted, according to the tenets of the Roman Catholick Church and Custom of the Spanish nation. I replyed the Spanish Don in the following words. Altho, I had the honour of being Chaplain in his Christian majesty’s service, I was an Irishman by Birth, adding, that I had heard last night of such a deed so having taken leave with a low bow of the Spanish Don or Padra, I went to see Mr. Callaghan where I was Informed by Mr. Kelly of Dublin, that it was the Rev’d Mr. Quirk who was assassinated of whom there’s mention in the article of the 21 of last Novemr. This poor gentleman was murdered on the 16 or 17 Instant as he had been then 4 days absent from his lodgings. I have heard the best Character given of him, to wit, that his life & moral actions were unblemished and on Example to all of his gown. At Mr. Callaghan’s also, I came acquainted with a Mester Commings from teh Co. Meath, who told me that he had spent the last 6 years ih Dublin. He pretends that he came to Spain in order to see an uncle of his who resides in Alicant. Near 12 o’clock, I say Monsieur le Comte D’estaing accompanied by the prince of Nassau, a great number of Colonels, Captains & officers on the Ramparts going to Dine in town. Our officers on board the active received orders this day to Embark on board different ships. I dined this day with Mr. Mac Cabe at the three Kings, after which we went to a Coffee house where we took a glass of punch. I returned on board at 5 and a quarter in our boat, and by 8 o’clock I arrived on board the ship….
21 It began this morning to blow very hard at 7 and a half, accompanied with very heavy rain, at which time a small Brig which lay a long side us having snapt her small Cables by the sudden fierceness of the gust, fell under our stern in which her bowsprit broke two windows in our Dining room and a board in the Ceiling, no other Considerable damage ensued from this Accident. The weather became fair near 12 o’clock and Continued so for the rest of the day.
22 It blew very smart all the last night but encreased and blew to the highest degree about 8 and a half this morning which Continued almost the whole day accompanied at Intervals by heavy showers of rain, hails & sleet. All our officers who receiv’d Orders to go on board other ships took their leave this morning at 8 o’clock; but e’er they had time to get on board, they had like to have been overset many times on their passage through the road it being agitated in a very violent manner by the storm which abated near midnight….
23 Phebus in his purple Chariot ushered in a very pleasant morning and not an aspect appeared to Contradict good weather. I went after Dinner to the Caraque hospital to visit my penetents whom I found in a better state of mind and body than before to my great pleasure. After I had made my rounds, I met with Mr. Jonathan Webb with whom I remained some hours aiding him to Execute his Commands, which being accomplished I took the opportunity of Returning on board the active in his boat at 6 o’clock as he Returned to go on board the Indien man of war where he is now placed….
24 After Dinner I went to the Town of Laisland with Monsieur Bozquet our 2nd Chirurgeon, and on our return at 5 and a half at the place of Rendezvous we were Informed that our boat which promised to wait untill 6 o’clock put off with some of our marine guards, in Consequence of which we were obleidged to remain on the wharf untill 7 o’clock when a spanish boat took us in, and by the ill management of her pilot who was not well acquaint’d with the place run her aground Immediately after our puting off, so that ’twas by great difficulty we got her afloat as ’twas then the reflux of the tide. Being in this sad distress one of the boat’s Crew striped himself naked & swam to a boat which lay about 30 yards of us which he board’d and brought to our relief, on board of which we all went except three spanards, who striped themselves naked an dwent into the water and by great pain & difficulty set the boat once more afloat, on which we went aboard a second time, then plyed our oars and with some Difficulty we arrived on board the active at 8 o’clock. The night was Cold and the wind stood at N.E. I gave 24 sols to the pilot..
25 All the forenoon Cold, the wind still at N.E. and an aspect of Rain. In the aft. the majestieu advanced somewhat further up in the bay.
26 Being the sabbath day I said mass for my flock at the usual hour, and sung vespers in the aft. The majestieu not being contented with her station, advanced higher up in the road to be in readiness to sail out when orders will be given…
27 The most part of this day was cold, heavy & chilly. At 5 in the aft. the Royo a spanish ship of 80 Guns arrived at the Caraque where she lay all night under our stern; she had her mainmast damaged in the late engagement which is the Cause of her coming here for reparation.
28 The Royo, at 8 this morning shifted down to her byrth for reparation. Fine weather.
29 A Continuation of good weather….
30 About 10 o’clock I received advice to go visit the sick in the Caraque hospital where I went after Dinner and Confessed a saillor a provencial belonging to the majestieu and a soldier of 4L Regt. whom I left in penance for my next visit. Eight ships of line & 4 frigates french & spanish, sailed out this day under the Command of Monsieur Duplesis Paseault on board the Royal Louis, in order to meet & protect a Spanish Convoy coming from the Havanah. Fine weather…….
31 This Day was excessively warm, tho, a gentle refreshing breeze. The month ends here, my Dr. friend, wit a great rumour of peace……
FEBRUARY 1783
1 An Ensign dined on board the active this day, who was on board the pegasus (Command’d by Monsieur de Cillaing) when she was taken last April by the squadron under the Command of Mr. Kemplefelt. This young mariner told us, that they had 80 killed and as many wound’d before they struck the English flag, that they had already lost their mizen mast the bar of their rudder broken, and the Rudder itself shivered almost into pieces. That their position before the Engagement was so Crittical on account of the actual position of the wind and the ushant Islands, that to Escape Coming to Battle, they would have run the ship Infallibly on the rocks; In this situation, the lighter of two evils after a short debate was chosen. In fine, said he, we faught against a ship of 86 guns which was higher than the pegasus by 4 and a half feet so that we could hope no advantage by attempting to baord her. These unlucky Circumstances add’d to several others said he, left it out of our power of making a longer resistance. The fire was already proclaimed on board. A hatch of one of the port holes of the first battery destroyed in such a manner by a shot, that the water came rowling in on us in rivers as the sea ran a little high. The saillors too were for the most part novices who but 6 days before knew not what form a ship had, and who becaem affrighted & dismayed greatly, by the aforesaid events….
About 2 months ago said he, Cap. Cillaing on his return from England stood the tryal of a Court martial held in Brest on his Conduct the day of Battle, in which he came off with flying colours only, contrary to the Expectation of a great many. All day fine & warm weather…
2 About 9 last night the wind began to rise of a sudden from the NE which Continued all the rest of the night and this day in such a violent manner that I have not seen in my life perhaps another equal to it. The tide rose 4 feet higher here than usual in this place. At 6 in the aft. news arrived from Cadiz that peace was proclaimed, that the Te Deum, was sung in the Churches of that City in thanksgiving. Our saillors on hearing this news began to ring the Bells on board the ship, and filled the air with their noise (which as yet remain’d Dissorder’d by the hoarse musick of Eolus) and with huzzas & shouts “Vive le Roi..” in such a manner that one could easily perceive their Contentment: the storm abated near 12 at night and the Cry of the saillors too was much lower…..
3 This morning was both warm and Calm in recompence of yesterday’s hurricane and the sun shone on the low grounds with his reviving ardour as well as on the tops of the highest mountains. The doubtful news of peace is no longer to be Doubted: for the spanish boats that came this morning from Cadiz hither Carried with them the Ensigns of peace, to wit their Centures or Sashes and hankerchiefs tied to the mast head and their pavilions flying on the forend of their boats shouting huzzas as they pass’d by us.
Our Lieutenants, at the sight of these signals of peace made by the spanards were still more Incredulous than the apostle St. Thomas not being contented at seing a signal so true, resolved to go to Cadiz to be better assured of the fact by an other sende in which the apostle did not so much hesitate in as in the former. Near 12 o’clock, Monsieur Jaulnee auxillary officer (who was on board the active sine our Departure from Brest untill a few days ago when he was ordered to serve on board teh Lion, in passing to the Caraque to receive soem necessaries for the Lion in the Magazines there) Came on board and dined with usand Informed us that Monsieur D’estaing received the news of peace yesterday morning at 9 and a half and that hostillities were to cease Immediately in those parts of the Globe. Upon which he sent orders to town to sing the te Deum in the Churches, which was done in Consequence after Vespers. In like manner ordered a frigate to sail out this morning in quest of the squadron under the Command of Monsieur Duplesis Paseault, some say that there were three frigates ordered to sail out on the aforesaid expedition which seems probable enough and to announce to them the news of peace and put a stop thereby to further hostillities. He was not less careful in expediting a Currier to fort St. Philip, and the lines, to put an end to their vainful attemps there on the barren clifts & rocks of Gibraltar, and thereby spare the national Debt, by preserving their powder, bullets, bombshells, which was already augmented to a very Considerable sum on the spanish nation. It may be not amiss here to Inform you, my Dr. friend, that every Canon shot from the Lines was valued to 35 shillings, and every Dischare of a bomb or mortar at 105 shills which by a Certain number of Rounds daily of 90 pieces of Canon & mortars amounted to a very Considerable sum… …the frigates that went out in guest of the squadron are the Crescent, the Irish & the Richmond.
I went to the Caraque after Dinner with Monsr. Jaulnee. On my arrival there, I visited my loust penetents in the hospital, one of whom I absolved, and the other prayed me to return again next day. I returned back on board in the Lion’s Boat at 5 o’clock after having the opportunity of seeing a great many of his majesty’s magazines at the Caraque, which I must own are very fine and Contain a great quantity of all sorts of naval stroes sufficient to maintain a long war; nevertheless the news of peace cannot gladden the hearts of the English at present more than them of the spanards and french…
4 The weather, tho’ fine is a little cold, the wind at NNE. After Dinner I went to Cadiz a part of the way by water, as you’ll observe, the wind & tide were against us which occasioned our going on shore at Pontall which lies on the Cadiz side of the road about a mile & half from the Town; from whence I walked into the City & arriving at Mr. Callaghan’s I wa sImmediately Informed that the persons who murdered the Rev’d Mr. Quirk were discovered & apprehend’d by the following means…. Mr. Quirk, who a few days before his untimely Death, had Engaged himself, Chaplain to a regt. of spanish troops bound for the Indies in the present Crisis upon which he received (as I was Informed 1000 oz of Gold in Spanish Coin; I know not if it was all for himself) and having Some affairs of arraingement at Laisland, he hired a Chaise to go tither for said end: the driver of the Chaise knowing he had received said sum (as he has since acknowledged) waylaid his death in the following manner. As Mr. Quirk was returning late from the town of Laisland, his perfidious guide or Chaise driver took the Linch win (which keeps the wheel on its axis) off privately, after which he whiped & slashed his horse to a full gallop, & in a short time the wheel fell off its axis, by which means the Chaise was overset, and Mr. Quirk’s head Coming to the ground in all appearance sooner than any other part of him, must reasonably have been greatly hurt by the Violence of so sudden and unexpected fall. Whilst he lay in this position motionless I might say, his Driver deprived him of life with the but end of his whip or some other Instrument, which after he had completed he buried him in the sand at low water having first deprived him of all his cloaths except his shirt from which he took a pair of Gold sleeve buttons with the rest. But as murder Cannot for ever remain Concealed, so some means are always given for that end, which in the present proved to be the Ebbing and flowing of the tide, after which nothing remained but the discovery of the murder’r or murderers which was soon found out by means of the good order Established in Cadiz by his Excellence Count o’Reily. You’ll observe here again, my Dr. friend, that these Chairmen pay a tribute or tax for their Chaise, and before they attempt to leave town with any person, they are oblig’d according to the law & Custom to go to a Certain office for their use in the town, in which they leave their name & number, the names of those whom they Carry and the place of their Destination. In Consequence of this, the office books were Examined, the Driver’s name was by that means Discovered who Conducted Mr. Quirk, and apprehend’d in Consequence by the Kings’ guards Immediately after. When he was taken, like a good penetent he acknowledged his guilt and all the means & stratagems he made use of to Commit a deed so horrid. The Clergy have sent to the Holy see for power to raise the Excommunication and give him the rites of the Church before he’ll undergo the punishment which the laws of this nation Inflicts on Delinquents of his Kind. 5 sail of the squadron which went to meet the Havanah Convoy arrived this Evening in the bay, ’tis supposed that the rest are not far off. I left Cadiz at 5 o’clock and was 3 hours on water e’er I could arrive on board the active; the wind & tide being against us on our return, as well as in going to town after Dinner. You might truly say that I had Cuckoo’s fortune…..
5 The morning very fine, the wind at N. At 9 and a half it changed to S.E. and the day became chilly……
6 I went after Dinner to port-real a Considerable town situated on the E side of the bay or road of Cadiz. On my arrival there I went to see the parish Church which had no extraordinary exterior beauty, but a great deal of Interior: there may be seen 14 altars in this Church all guilded with gold in profusion. One of the priests shewed me the statues of the saints to whom these altars were dedicated. Each altar has the statue of the saint to whom it was Dedicated, over it, which wears a dress similar to that which the saint whom it represents wore on earth except the richness of the stuff which is wrought in gold & silver, in the most masterly manner, representing the order and quallity of the saint. These statues are veiled by wrought Curious Curtains, and one seldom exposed except in the time of Celebrating mass, and to the Curious, which is done by winding up a slide which Covers them & the Curtains from publick view, nothing Can surpass the Interior parts of these Churches for neatness and beauty. The rails of the Gallery’s and pews which are all of Iron work are guilt with Gold as well as the altars in such sort, that the whole Church diffuses a wonderful & divine lustre in spite of the solemn light which the windows shed. After seeing these divine beauties, my curiosity was not as yet satiated, in Consequence of which, I went to see a Convent of Recolet fryars, who paid me the utmost respect & shewed me their Church, altars & statues which were but very little Inferior to the former. Here I saw some painted tablets which will for ages be an honr. to the hand & pencil of the artist; but of the whole, one, which was Drawn by an Irish-man, as they told me. In this town may be also seen several fountains of very pure water, which by the genial art of man spout forth their vitals perpetually through marble pillars. Each fountain having generally five pipes, the Central one being about four feet higher than the other four makes it appear more beautiful. The highest elevation of the water is upwards of 12 feet over the surface of the earth. The recevoir of bason into which the waters Immediately fall is about 4 feet over the surface of the Earth. The Body or main pedestal of the work through which the water ascend’d is about 4 feet over the Center of the bason. The pipes and the elevation of the water again over the main body are about 4 feet higher making by Computation 12 feet in air as I have already described. Each pipe pours its water into small Basons & buckets of white marble which are supported by the hands, shoulders, of marble statues representing persons of either sex, which seem to have an air of Contentment, as Ducks (which have been some time without rain or water) at the bursting of a cloud, or at the sight of a pond or lake. The houses in this town are for the most part low, of two & three stories; the streets are streight but badly paved. The suburbs are handsome enough, abounding in orange and olive trees, pines and myrtle groves. I left this town at 6 o’clock and returned on board the active. Observe, that there’s here a small port & quay for small craft at high water…..
At 7 this morning the De Stad. Emden, a holland ship of about 800 Tuns worked up from the Caraque into Cadiz road…
7 At 7 and a half this morning a spanish ship of 74 guns hawled down by us to the Caraque for reparation, and at the same hour a Spanish Cutter of 14 guns. The weather Cold threatening rain, the wind at SW and a little fresh. At 11 and a half there fell a very heavy shower of rain accompanied by a strong gale of wind. We had all the aftn. a Confused noise on board teh ship, the Caulkers having began to calk the Inner parts & between decks…
8 The ship is now ready for reparation and the work seems to have a beginning this morning. It blew very fresh all this day untill 6 in the aft. when it began to blow excessively hard and continued so during the night the wind at W.
9 Tho yesterday & last night especially was wonderful stormy, all this day was nothing less and scarcely no fall of rain, no boat whatsoever dare venture the waves this day in particular, in the road. About 5 in the aft. it began to rain at Intervals and the storm abated very much about 7 at night…
10 The weather was both Calm & warm this morning. After Dinner I went a shore with a guard marine and a volunteer to see our Coopers who were repairing the tans, pipes & barrells at a very small port on the bay or road side near the powder magazine. From thence we went to the signal or watch tower, which is about half a mile from the former, on which we spent some time viewing all that was Curious around us, after which we walked to Laisland and from thence to the Caraque where we waited but a short time for the arrival of our boat; in fine we arrived on board at 6 o’clock hungry & somewhat fataigued…
11 The weather was this morning dark & Cold, and stormy the most part of the day. At night there fell a mighty shower of rain accompanied by a violent gale of wind….
12 At 8 this morning, it began to blow and encreased by degrees after to all possible vehemence from the NW. All the road was white with froth by the breaking of the waves. I have already remarked some day svery stormy since my knowledge of this place, but none so violent as the present. Three Chaloupes Came with saillors this morning from three different ships and were in the utmost danger of being overset several times. At 1 in the aft. the storm began to abate. Dry weather. Nothing else this day of consequence happened.
13 I went to port-real after Dinner where I left my foul linnen to be washed and returned back on board at 6 and a half. On my arrival I had two letters from france; one from the marquis of Lambilly & his Lady. The other from the Rev’d W. Sommers Chaplain to the Count of Menou governor of Nantes Castle, which Informed me of the Death of teh Reved. Archdekin at Choltiere near Machecoul, which news afflicted me greatly…. Our Lieut. Commandant of the active who went this morning to Cadiz returned with the Certain news of the active’s Destination for the port of Toulon…
14 At 8 this morning, there were 10 pieces of Canon discharged at Laisland, at the report of which, all the Spanish ships at the Caraque began to ring their bells and make a great Clamour; but for what reason this was done, I cannot conjecture, only suppose it was done on acct. of the peace and leave it for time to Inform me better. At 6 at night, I perceived a great fire near Laisland which seemed a fire of rejoicement. An order for Desarming the Spanish ships was ushed out & proclaimed this day.
15 The weather dull, heavy & cold this morning. In the aft. the Clergy and Laity of Cadiz made a procession in Ceremonial tryumph through the City, on the Restauration of peace. I’m sorry, I had not the pleasure of seeing them. At 11 o’clock, I confessed a marine saillor on board. An order has been lately ushued out to receive no more french sick persons in the hospitals as they must part for france with the fleet.
16 I Celebrated mass at 12 o’clock as our men were Employed mounting the top & main top masts.. Fine weather….
17 The morning very cold, from 8 untill 12 the wind began to blow very fierce from the S. at which time it began to rain and the wind lowered. At 3 aft. It began to freshen again and by 7 at night it blew with the utmost rage, so that I never saw in my life a storm so violent. Our ship in this Critical place drew her anchors. A spanish lighter (Called in french, Becasse, which in the English tongue signifies a woodcock) which lay a long side us laden with water for our use sunk by us and a tartanne laden with wine also for our use was obliged to run a ground to Escape from being shivered to pieces between our ship and the Gratieuse formerly a frigate, but at prest. in the mercantile service an-other tartanne in like manner laden with wine for our service was in the near Danger of being broken to pieces and was considerably Damaged. You’ll observe, my friend that there were 3 spanards on board the lighter when she sunk who were near sinking as well as their Bark, as the sea broke in on them and sunk the Bark in a moment; but providence provid’d better for them, as by chance in their Critical situation they Caught a rope which hung from the side of our ship by which means they prolonged their lives. I could not sleep a wink all the night on account of the Jaring noise of the winds & elements to which add the shreeks and mournful cries of a Damned Company of Cats which came on board from the Vitulars whilst they lay near us, to Caterwaul with ours. The Cry of the saillors in their usual terms Completed a full scene all round the ship of horror & Confusion. This Violent hurricane Continued untill 4 o’clock in the morning at which time it began to abate…
18 All this day was spent in puting the ship to rights & placing her head in the Channel. The weather Cold & lively, showers of rain and sun shine at Intervals, an appearance of an opening spring….
19 Was Employed in placing the top gallants & shrouds, some refreshing showers in the forenoon. I received my linnen from port-real in the aft. which Cost me 11 reals, an exorbitant reward for a labour so small. At 5 and a half a pilot Came on board who took the place of our former pilot from Brest name Pishot…
20 The weather very fine and the day for the most part was Employed weighing our anchors…
21 We were in expectation of mounting up into the road by this morning’s tide, but Could not get all to rights before the tide slackened. I Confessed a swabber in the afternoon.
26 By 6 o’clock this morning we had our anchors weighed, and having hoised up the fore & mizen top sails we advanced ourselves up in the road as far as trocadere where we let go our Kedge anchor by orders of our pilote a Spanard. We expect to take in our powder here tomorrow. In the forenoon, I Confessed a saillor from Picardy sick of a putrid fever. At 2 in the aft. I went on shore at Trocadere a small port where the merchant Comp. 7 ships Can be repaired. There may be seen a few store houses in this place belonging to his majesty and but very little besides of Consequence. About mid-way between this town & port-real I saw a very Curious Cornmill, a plan of which I may perhaps send you at a more seasonable time. I returned back from port-real near 6 o’clock and went on board from Trocadere.
23 Early this morning we were Informed that Monsieur le Comte d’Estaing receiv’d the Destination of the fleet yesterday in the aft. from the minister of war, to wit for the different ports of war belonging to his majesty. In Consequence of this news we sent a volunteer on board the Invincible to be better informed, at the said time he was to dischare some other Esential duty. On his Return, he brought us the following act: that there were 13 ships destin’d for Toulon and some frigates, all the ships of first rate with several Others for Brest. and some for Rochfort, one or two for the Islands and sone frigates. He brought us also the late stipulated articles of the peace……Ships Destined for Toulon….
Le Dictateur … Commandant
Le Geriere ….. 2 frigates
L’Alcide ……. 3
Le Conquerant .. 4 Iris ………. 1
L’Indien ……. 5 la Precieuse ….. 2
La Provence …. 6 la Belette ……. 3
le Puissant …. 7 la Poulette …… 4
Le Zodiac …… 8 la Minione ……. 5
Le Suffisante .. 9
Le Censeur ….. 10 54 transport…
Le Lion …….. 11
Le destin …… 12 I am not very certain of the
L’Actif …….. 13 Mionione’s Destination for Toulon……..
all ships of line…..
At 2 aft.the Commandant general fired a gun, as a signal for giving the Orders of Destination to the Different ships. At 3 and a half we received orders to send an exact acct. of the ship’s Crew to the Consul, a sspeedy as possible, in order to man the ships properly, after which we were to receive Orders of Destination and time of Departure…
24 The wind holds contrary against our advancing higher in the road. I went on shore after Dinner to walk and returned on board at 7 and a half……
25 I went to Cadiz after Dinner, where I met with Mr. McCabe, Capn. Martel and Lieut. Mac Carty who treated me with kindness & respect. Mr. Mac Carty is quite hoarse and in a very Dangerous state of health, so that I despair of his every regaining his natural voice. He & Capn. Martel are to Embark on board the 3 Brothers & Convoy ship bound for Toulon. I returned on board at 7 o’clock..
26 We received an order this day to receive on board 225 soldiers of Piedmont’s & Perche’s Regts. We have already a Company of Hainault’s Regt. on board. I went after Dinner to Cadiz, where I bought 14 pints of malaga wine & 5 of alicant which I laid up in Case Bottles for the Rev’d Johm Mehegan’s use in Brest. By Mr. o’Bryen’s means, I miss’d an opportunity of returning on board. I being thus in a hobble for want of a bed & supper, I brought Mr. o’Brien with me to Mrs. Lyones where we suped and lay this nigh. Mrs. Lynes is a native of Waterford, whose first husband died in the West Indies: she’s at prest. maried to a Mr. Tracy a flandrican who speaks the English tongue very well. Capn. Tiley an American pensioned here, who was bound to Brest. I writ by him to father John to do him all the service in his power on his return there as he knew not a word of french. Mr. Webb & Monsr. Jaulnee came in after supper and lay here also. After we all had Drank plentiful Bowls of punch over which our Landlord or host Mr. Tracy sung several English songs we tought it time to betake ourselves to bed at one in the morning….
27 Having awoke at 7 this morning, I found myself in good health, and breckfasted on tea with the Gentlemen who supped here last night. At 11 o’clock I left Cadiz and by 3 in the aft. I arrived on board, where after I took some Refreshments. I packed the spanish wines in my trunk for father John, but when I was Cording the trunk, the Bottle of Malaga wine split by a sudden shock and the wine was lost excepting two quarts, which I saved. I sent the trunk by a Volunteer at 4 o’clock on board the Invincible with a letter for Mr. McCabe ordering my trunk to his Care and to leave it at father John’s in Brest untill my return from Toulon. I saw a Mr. Kidman (at Mrs. Lynes after my breckfast this morning) who lives at St. Mary’s. It began to blow very fresh at 9 this night….
28 The ships Destined for Brest Endeavoured this morning at 6 o’clock to put to sea; but, the wind not being very propitious were obliged to let down their anchors. Fine weather…
MARCH 1783
1 From 7 this morning untill 12 was Employ’d working the ship and bring her up Completely into the road by the help of trhe Captans & Kedge anchor, as the wind, which was both Calm & somewhat Contrary did not permit us to hoise up our sails. At 11 a ship coming into the road, saluted the fleet with a volley of 15 canon shots which were answered in 15 minutes after by the Trinity a spanish ship, by a dischare of 7 guns. At 1 o’clock the wind having freshen’d and Changed by degrees to NNW. the Invincible signalized to the Brest division at 2 and a half to put to sea as speedy as possible…
2 Being the sabbath day, I Celebrated mass near 11 o’clock, but before I began the port fired a volley of 15 pieces which were Immediately answered by 15 more from the trinity of 112 Guns. A salute given to the french fleet as they were puting to sea at the same time, but the wind having varied they Could not clear out. At 4 in the aft. I sung vespers….
3 At 8 this morning a merchant ship slipt from her anchor and set adrift but she soon relieved herself by leting down Another. At 1 a Brig in the road was dismasted of her fore top gallant. It blew fresh this aft. the wind at W or N & by W.
4 Nothing remarkable occured this day, excepting that the signals were hoised for puting to sea so soon as the wind would serve…
5 At 7 this morning a signal was hoised on board the admiral ship indicating to the fleet to put themselves in readiness for sailing our, as the wind was then at SE & by E the very Calm. Teh active benefited of the moment by advancing herself higher up in the road, at first by winding the Captans, and soon after by the help of the sails and the Boats which advanced her a mile higher up in the road from where she lay these days past. She’s now out of danger of Baording others or of being board’d by them, and can benefit of the N. & E. winds for sailing out; which advantage we had not hitherto… At 3 in the aft. I went to town where I Came acquainted with Mr. Joseph White an Englishman by birth who married a young woman form Backlane Dublin. This Gentleman prayed me to present his Compts. to Mr. Pat Moloney Publican in Church Street. I took share of two bowls of punch with him & Capn. Tiley american at Mrs. Tracy’s. I returned on board at 6 and a half after having bad adieu to Cadiz and to all my friends in that handsome City…
6 The firmament is dull, the weather calm & the small air of wind that reigns is at W. At 3 aft. Monsieur Rosen a Swede Ensign who left us some time ago, and went on board the Sceptre by orders, Came on board. On the first view of this Gentleman, I observed a discomposure in his Countenance and was not Deceived. The raison of his visit was to Complain to Monsr. de Boloigne of one of our auxillary officers who lately came to us named Kerluzee a low Britton from near Brest, who some nights ago had been at a ball in which mr. Rosen assisted. After the Ball was over the low Britton took Rosen’s sword with him and in all appearance his Cloak; but as to the Sword, Rosen found him disposing of it in exchange to a Sword Cutler in Town, who Immediatley laid Claim to it as his property, and at the same time possessed himself once more of it. Our Commandant on this Information sent the low Britton under the Inspection of an-other auxillary officer to Monsieur de Buhore major of the naval forces, with a letter of Information of his actions & manners, praying him at the same time to sen tanother in his place… There has been a thousand other complaints against this young man’s conduct: many of which of great weight and Consequence, which I shall here omit, as they might reflect on a young man who’s already blasted and destitute of all honr. and honesty… At 8 at night, we were Informed that the solitaire of 64 guns which went with the Convoy from Brest to the Islands, was taken, and had her 2nd Capn. Killed in the Engagement. Our officers remained gambling this night in the Counsil Chamber untill 4 o’clock in the morning….
7 The wind at W. the firmament laden with Clouds and the air fresh. Dined on board our ship Capn. Longeval of Bourbon’s Regt. and Mons. Grouing Ensign both belonging to the sceptre…
8 At 7 this morning the Invincible fired a gun, at the same time hoised up the signals of a general order to the fleet. The Bienaime, in a short time afterwards fired a gun, and signalized to the Brest Convoy to prepare & put Immediately to sea. The day presently after became calm & a thick heavy fog obscured the view of the firmament as well as the smooth plains of Neptune, and thus deprived us of the natural view of the sensible Horizon…
9 I Celebrated mass at 10 o’clock this day. At 11 a signal was made to the ships bound for Toulon (to put to sea) by the Dictation Command’d by Monsieur de la Clue, by a Discharge of several Canon shots by Intervals, at the same time the signals were hoised up on board for said end. The wind being fair, tho, almost Calm, the Dictateur nevertheless hoised up her sails and on parting saluted the town or port, which was returned by the latter and the St. Trinity; by this time our anchors were almost weigh’d and then remained in a favourable position to see the Event of success. At 1 the wind began to breathe over the surface of the waters, at which time we hoised up our sails. At 4 and a half it began to rain which Continued for the space of two hours. There remained after us several ships of the line and 54 transports which could not as yet come out.
10 At 4 this morning the Dictateur fired the signal guns to the ships & Convoy to bear up under the wind, having at that moment the finest sailing breeze that man Could desire and of which we profit: our main sheet is spread right before the wind and our topsails are full, thus we plow the furrowed plains fo Neptune with pleasure and gladdened hearths. From 5 untill 7 we had a plentiful fal of rain, after which the firmament became clear, the Clouds retired which left us a clear pure air; but alas! human pleasure Cannot be long permanent! for at 9 o’clock we changed our course and lay lurking about waiting that part of the Convoy which remained after us in the road of Cadiz. AT 4 aft. we perceived 13 sail of the Convoy making way towards us. We spent the Ensuing night Runign on the Larboard & Starboard tacks right off the bay of Cadiz.
11 At 7 this morning, the firmament became dissordered and threatened something Dangerous which made us prepare ourselves Immediately for the reception of both the wind & the rain, which did not Continue very long, nor proved so dangerous as it first seemed; however it occasioned us to accept of passing the streights, though not Intend’d as I think, by our Commandant in Chief, as being rendered by our Critical position and the wind which hovered to the W obliged us to accept this Choise of passing the streights Into which we entered at 2 and a half aft. the wind almost fair in our poops. When we were right opposite Tarriffe in the streights, a gust of wind Dismasted the puissant of her main top Gallant. At 5 and a half we cleared the point of Europe at Gibraltar by which time we took possession of the mediteranean and were shortly after signaliz’d to lye too and wait the union of the Lion & the Conquerant with the rest of the Convoy all of which remained behind us in Cadiz road. The wind is Charmingly fair for our Intend’d destination being now at W.S.W. bur for the above Reasons we are defend’d to benefit of it…
12 The morning very fine the breeze smart & lively, and find ourselves about 7 leagues from Gibraltar. The last night & this morning were spent in veering from Mulbay to the Coast of Barbary and back again by turns. Here at 8 o’clock, we first perceived that the ship made 4 Inches of water pr. hour which daily augmented. In Consequence we fired a gun by which we signaliz’d to the Commandant that we wanted permission of addressing to him our present state. At 10 we spoke to him and having given us orders to advance to Cape au moulins near the entrance of Malaga, we Continued our Course, and arrived there by two in the aft. at whic time the Commandant signalized to the Division to return back on the same Course. This was no sooner executed, than he signalized the active to accost him for he’s still ignorant of our distress, and as we Immagined that we were all to Come to anchor at Cape au Moulins, so we said nothing to him of our situation at the time he haled us. A spanish fort which is situated about three leagues N by W from Cape au Moulins saluted us as we were passing by about 10 o’clock, which was returned by several shots from the Commanding ship and the Repeaters. At 3 the frigate la poulette sent an officer on board to enquire and know what we wanted; our Lieut. Commandant gave him a letter of Information with which he returned Immediately. Near 5 the same officer returned back again with an ansr. that the Commandant’s
intention was to remain hovering in this place for 4 or 5 days & wait thereby the arrival of the Convoy & ships which were as yet behind us. You may observe here that a part of the Convoy which sailed out with us Came to anchor in the Bay of Algesiras, where they also still wait the arrival of the rest from Cadiz. We spent the night veering off Cape au Moulins. At 10 this morning I observed that the Censeur was deprived of her fore top-gallant. Cold weather……
13 The weather smart & cold, the firmament laden with clouds, the wind at N.W. not having varied much these 20 days past. We have already 26 persons sick on board, but none as yet dangerously. At 5 this morning we veer’d about from the Coast of Barbary and bent our Course for the Spanish Coast where we arrived in a few hours about 6 leagues below Malaga, being drift’d so far on the two last tacks by the wind and the Currents. The sea rowls a little high this day, but not dangerous. At 12, we were by observation in Latt. 36.4 bearing distance off Malaga 10 leagues S.S.W. at the same hour a whole regt. of sea hogs Rowled by under the ship, an omen of bad weather! we run 4 knots pr. hour on the prest. tack, tho, we govern close under the wind.
14 We spent last night towards Africa, or that part which is commonly call’d Barbary, and this morning back again towards the mountains of Grenade, still falling further down in the Mediteranean; the wind at NW. the weather, tho, clear is cold, and the breeze smart. At 10 the seas began to swell and foam with rage, and the winds roar as they start forth from the hollow Eolian Caves and sport in the ship’s tackle. Thus, my Dr. friend, we rowl in an old rotten Cradle very much to our Displeasure. It Continued blowing very fierce all day and at 8 at night we lay the ship too…..
15 Tho, it blew yesterday and last night very fierce, it blew not less frightful this morning, the weather very cold and the wind at NW. having veered early this morning near the Coast of Barbary, we remained on the same tack untill between 5 & 6 in the aft. at which time we were rendered close under the Clifts of teh mountains of Grenade, the highest I ever yet saw whose lofty tops are at prest. Covered with snow. We had here, whilst we lay near the land, a little shelter from these mountains. At 8 at night a small ship spoke with us which was in great distress having lost her main Yard. She Informed us that the Conquerant sailed out of Cadiz the 14 at 11 at night, and the Lion some days before, that Monsr. de la Motte Piquette had not then left Cadiz. We lay too all night veering from one side to the other opposite the mountains of Grenade. Observe the ship that haled us seemed to overset every moment whilst she spoke with us and was refused succour because she had nothing on board to his majesty acct. ..the ansr. was, “allex faire fouter”. That is, you may go to the Devil, or something as bad….poor Consolation for a man in distress!
16 The storm, some time last night, abated, and the seas became more tranquil. At 8 this morning we had view of the Convoy which lay at Algesiras as we pass’d through the streights, and the Conquerant also who were not now far behind. The Lion has passed us unheaved, unseen. At 10, having a fine gentle Breeze, we hoised up top sails, the weather both clear & dry and the wind fair for Our Destination. At 11, I celebrated mass at which time we were leaving behind us on the left, the hoary mountains of Grenade. At 4 we turned Cape de Gate, where there’s a light-house and a watch tower both situated on the Pinacle of a very high rock Impending almost over the ocean. You’ll observe my Dr. friend, that there are watch towers all round the Coast of Spain, one still in view of the other, by means of which, they can signalize from one to the other in a very short time the number of ships, whether of their nation or of any other that pass by in thier view, thus they Can send this news to Cadiz in two or 3 hours time from the most remote part of the Coast of Spain at least on the side of the mediteranean. The same is also practiced on the Coast of Brittony on each side of Brest for a Considerable Distance and ver frequent from the Ushant Islands especially in time of war.
Near 5 the wind slackened, and at 8, we run only 2 knots pr. hour. The night passed with serene weather….
17 At 4 this morning, the wind began to freshen from SE and not very favourable for our Course, notwithstanding we drive at the rate of 4 knots pr. hour. At 9 o’clock, a soldier of Piedmont’s Regt. fell over board and perish’d in a moment. At 5 aft. the wind varied and came right against us, which made us betake ourselves too large for it began also to freshen. At 7 the winds began to roar in a frightful manner, which obliged us to set the ship too. At 9 and a half I went to bed….
18 I was awakened last night about 12 o’clock by the roaring of teh winds & the motion of the ship which were excessive both the one & the other in such sort, that I Immagined it to be the last moment I had to spare to pray to my Creator to hav emercy on me and on the ship’s Crew. The ship had so great a motion as to overset me out of my bed, and finding myself on the floor, I put on my Cloaths tho, with some Difficulty, as I could neither sit nor stand a moment without having my hands Employed holding by a beam or some thing sure & sollid. I was not in the least surprised to find my shaving Bason broken in 100 pieces. My water pot or jug Deprived of its handle & overset, and the water which it before Contained Conveyed into my drawer where my papers lay, but happily no great Damage ensued as the water ran through the Chinks in the bottom. I found my looking glass, small cloaths, Books & Brevaries all under foot. After I had put all these things to rights, tho, in a Confused manner, I spoke to a volunteer who was going to bed just arrived from the last watch, who told me that he hoped the Danger was Over, upon which I returned to my room where I prostrated myself Imploring the mercy of God through the Intercession of the ever glorious and Immaculate Virgin Mary, with that of St. Patrick whose feast was just not at an End. Although I did not drink a glass on this great festival, but as usual on other days, I had nevertheless an Innate Persuasion that I was very soon to drink of a larger Bowl than that of St. Patrick, the bitter Cup of Death. In fine, I spent 6 hours in prayer, as I have already remarked. At 2 o’clock, we were almost overset by a heavy sea, and what I laid to rights but two hours before fell a 2nd time about me ears Dancing & Capering, but leaving them to dance & Caper as they would, I opened my window and saw a ship about the Distance of a Canon shot under our stern (for ’twas moonshine) having the same motion we had ourselves, and supposed her to be the Indien man of war. About 4 the wind began to abate a little, but the sea ran still very high & heavy; the groans of the beams, joints of the ship add’d to the roaring of the winds, were sufficient to affright the most hardy seaman.
I Immagined each moment that the ship would split open in a thousand pieces. At 6 the air became foggy and moist, and a fall of light rain ensued, nevertheless, the sea still Continued to run very high and heavy untill 10 o’clock when the storm began to abate greatly and the seas to lower. During the tempest I betought several times of the vows which are mention’d by Erasmus in his Naufragium. You may Compare mine to them in some measure, but not in so ill Intentioned a manner….the wind remains at E.N.E. and we rowl in a very sad Condition. At 2 aft. we tacked, and set the ship up to NE & by N. the sea still remaining very boisterous and not an aspect Contradicting bad weather. At 7 at night, it began to blow again almost with its former fury. At supper our table was near been overset and the ship in like manner several times. At 8 I observed an Eclipse of teh moon which obscured the two thirds of her disk. What at length is most to be lamented and feared after the aforesaid storm is that the ship makes 25 Inches of water each hour all this day. I went to bed at the usual hour….
19 I arose at 6 this morning and found the weather quite hazey, and an aspect of bad weather; withal, the wind very fierce, and the sea, tho much abated of its former rage runs still very high. The ship stands to NE by N and the wind as yesterday. At 1 we tacked about, being driven back these days past close to the mountains of Grenade and lying W off Cape de Gatte. At 2 the sea and wind began to lower, tho, no saillor need desire it more boisterous. At 11 at night it became calm which Continued…..
20 The weather is Calm, the day fine, and the firmament about 7 o’clock began to clear up, but the wind holds Contrary. At 8 we hoised up our main top & top gallant sails the ship stands due E. The small breeze that exists seems to favour our Course. At 2 aft. we were right off the mountains of Grenade making 4 knots pr. hour, the Evening fair & the wind at W. At 6 the wind began to freshen and by 9 we turned Cape de Gatte. At 11 the wind began to fall and we made but 3 knots an hour after during the nigt.
21 A dark, heavy & dull morning, the wind at WSW and we govern due E. We are now in the Gulph of Vero somewhat advanced beyond where the wind Came Contrary on us the 16 inst. at night. At 10 the day cheered up, the darksome clouds recede and leave behind them a Clear heaven. The wind also arose and we spun a true Course through the plains & lawns of Neptune with unbridled speed. At 12 we were on a paralel with Cartagene in the Province of Murice. At 4 aft. we doubled Cape palos, the wind at W and run 5 knots an hour…
22 At 6 this morning, we were opposite Alicant, and at 8 we were on a paralel with mount Carpi near that of Benedormi: Mount Carpi is a stupendious high rock impending over the ocean. Between 10 & 11 we turned Cape St. Martin & Cape St. Anthony. At 12 we made 5 knots, tho, lying all the forenoon close under the wind. At 2 we changed our course in order to get Into the wind which was at SE and steered SW by S. The gale gentle but unhappilly not very propitious in our favour, we spent the aft. in tacking to & fro. At 6 we came in view of the Island of Ivice. At 11 this morning I confess’d three of our sick…
23 This being the sabbath day I said mass and administered the viatic to a saillor native of orleans. The wind is become more Contrary, in Consequence recede, governing to the S. leaving the Gulph of Valence behind us. We pass’d by the W end of the Island of Ivice and stear’d towards that of Majorque, the weather dark & heavy. at 4 aft. I sung vespers. Our men are Constantly at the pomps, as our ship has several Considerable leaks In her sides & bottom…..
24 Dull weather and the Horizon all around eclipsed by a thick mist, and the wind as yet Contrary. At 12 we were nigher to the port of Alger in Barbary than to Cape St. Anthony on a direct line between them both, the aft. became somewhat clear…
25 This being the feast of the Anuntiation a festival revered & solemnly held by the R.C. Church, I celebrated mass at 11 o’clock. At 12 the ships which lay to windward of us signalized sight of land. At the same hour we were by Calculation midway between the Island of Ivice & Cape St. Anthony, in observed Lat. 36.29. Cape St. Anthony bearing off us NE by N and the land sen in Benedormi. At 4 we arrived within half a shot of Benecarpi, at which time we tacked about in time of vespers. At 5 a Danish brig passed by us bearing towards the streights. At 9 I administered the Extremunction to the saillor of whom there’s mention in the article of the 23 Instant……
26 The weather both heavy & calm, the horizon all around covered by a thick mist and the light air that reigns is still Contrary. At 12 we were SE off Alicant, about the Distance of 10 leagues, the ship lying up due E & the wind at N. Some light rain at Intervals. At 7 aft. Emmery plotton saillor native of Orleans departed this life, having been ill of a fluxion of the heart & lungs, being fortified before his Death by the usual sacraments. I saw his body Cast into the Deep at 8 in the Chirurgeon’s quarters. Aged about 23 years…
27 About 2 this morning the wind became favourable and to benefit of it we put up sails. At 6 we ran up quite close by the Island named Fromentiere from W to E leaving it to the N. we govern due E for the Island of Majorque and leave the Island of Ivice also on the N. The wind at S.W. every aspect pronosticates good weather, the clouds recede, the sun is no longer obscured, darkness no longer exists, and our hearts rejoice. The opening prospect of good weather gladdens both young & old, and the rising breeze fill al our sails expand’d to receive its Embraces. There are several of the Convoy ships in Concert with us. We ran 4 knots all the forenoon, and at 4 in the aft. we had view of the Island of Majorque. At 5 the wind varied from SW to N an dbecaem somewhat calm. At 7 we were about 3 leagues from the Island named Cabrira near that of Minorque. The night passed with good weather…
28 At 6 this morning we found ourselves about a league S. of the Island of Cabrira, and at 7 we were opposite the end of the Island of Majorque bearing N. of us about 4 miles Distance. At 8 we sailed right opposite Port Pedra at which time I administered the sacraments of penance & the H. oils to one of my penetents, being then in all appearance near Death. The morning was very fine, the air clear, and the breeze fill’d our sails. At 11 the wind became slack, for we were then in shelter of the land. At 3 and a half in the aft. we sailed by Capt St. Pedro leaving it to the NW. in passing between the Islands of Majorque & Minorque, and at 12 we had view of the latter. Observe, that at 11 the clouds began to rise and obscure the heavens, the day became smart & chilly, you might Call it precisely a march-day. At 6 aft. we were almost on a paralel with Cape Bajoli in Minorque when a signal was made to veer backwards as the wind had then refused us. At 7 and a half it began to rain and the wind to freshen by degrees, which Continued so during the night and lay the ship too under her foresail only…
29 At 3 this morning, I perceived that the wind began to blow with uncommon fury, upon which, I arose and put my alls in safety, as I immagined; after which I lay me Down again to repose but could not on account of the wonderful motion which the ship had. I was not long in bed e’er I perceived that my Books, pots, mugs, jugs & glasses began to Kick, cuff and box each other in downright earnest. My looking glass being jelous with his Chamber Companions and their pastime, tho, a little more stedfast than they were for the first moments, swore he would descend to shew them fair-play, upon which he Leaped from a precipice of 6 good feet to the Diversion, by which falling contrary to his expectations, he had his fair fine face almost shattered for his pains, which was his Chief reward…. My snuff box too, who lay alone without a single Companion on the Larboard side, made a wonderful spring to unite himself to the Dance and scuffle, but being affrighted like Phaeton in his descent, he artfully hid himself in one of my shoes, where like a dasterly Coward he remained Concealed thinking himself safe in my left side pocket, and by that means I did not taste of his Cordial bowels before 5 o’clock at which time the NE winds began to roar; the seas to swell mountain high, the firmament clear and sunshine ensued which Continued by Intervals almost during the rest of the Day. Having read my office, I went from my room on Deck after some Difficulty, where I could not keep my ground a single moment. From thence I by long strife gained the Counsel Chamber, where I found trunks, chairs, Tables & Cushions all in confusion Dancing Jack-latin. I was here oblig’d to sit down and hold myself by a large Iron Crook to save myself from being Crushed and beaten from side to side. Altho’ it blew excessively fierce & strong on the 17th & 18th instant, it yet blew 7 Degrees harder this morning. The seas ran so high that they washed our fore-deck every moment, and broke in on our third Battery or on the quarter deck and ran down the passage in rivers so as to be up to the Knees in salt water between decks. The men on the foredeck opposite the main-mast have been beatten to pieces by the seas that ran over them. The ship lay every moment on one side or other alternately in such a manner that no one could scarse stand the fore-deck unless being lashed to a rope. O God! what a sight! what a scene! At 8 I returned to my Room from whence I brought a Book of prayer which I read, Commending my soul to its Creator: but for that end, I was obliged to sit down on my backside in one of the Doors of the Counsel Chamber entering to the Gallery, in order to be in a medium for reading. ‘Twas here, after I had made several acts of Contrition and a hearty Sorrow Conceiv’d for my sins, that I defyed Death, which I immagined realy Inevitable. In this sad Condition we remained untill 10 o’clock, at which time we fell under the shelter of the Island of Majorque which greatly relieved us, and by 12 the tempest abated very much, and the seas began to lower. At 4 aft. the wind varied to NW. and a signal was presently made to veer back and Continue a true Course, which was Immediately afterwards executed by all the ships, being at that time within Canon shot of the Island Cabraire or Cabrira which we left SW of us, and the Island of Minorque on the N or NW the weather Calm & the ocean almost tranquil. ‘Tis Impossible to paint the horrors of the first 12 hours of this day; the ship was filled with water, besides having several Considerable leaks already which never Diminished which afford’d an Innate persuation to all on board that she would split asunder every Instant during the tempest but God is great and powerful! he saw our Distress’s, he saw them and Relieved us In a good moment I hope. Sit Nomen Domini benedictum in Secula. Altho’ the sea was Calm, nevertheless, the huge swells that remained made the ship Rowl in such a manner that I could no Compose myself to rest during the night.
30 The day very fine but the wind very Inconstant which seems after many movements to be fond of the N. The ocean remains as yet in huge swells after the hurricane. At 10 my Chamber Window being open two seas broke in on me and gave me a full dip almost from head to feet. At 11 and a half I Celebrated mass for it was Sunday, and sung Vespers at 4. At 6 we were just at Cabraire or Cabrira where we were yesterday morning at the same hour. The night passed as usual taking & veering too & fro…
31 At 2 this morning I was alarmed to go and Confess a saillor in the hold a Native of Narbonne upon which I arose Immediately and Descended to where he he lay an dConfessed him in the best manner I could for he spoke in the jargon of his Country very often, not knowing much of the french tongue. I had not slept one hour before I arose nor could I afterwards on acct. of a violent head-ach and a light fever which I had these 4 days past. At 7 and a half I celebrated a Votive mass to the B.V. in the Dining room, and was obliged to have a man holding the Chalice during the Canon of the Mass. At 8 a gun was fired from the Commandant ship and a signal hoised up Immediately afterwards signifying to veer backwards towars the Island of Cabrira, after which being executed, we rowled shockingly during the space of 5 hours, as the sea remained all the forenoon in huge swells. At 12 the Geuriere fell in Close with us, at which time it became a perfect calm all of a sudden, by whom we were very near being board’d, but happilly we escaped’d that Danger by the greatest pains, or we would have been dashed to pieces by means of the swells… At 1 I administered the Extremunction to a soldier of Piedmont’s Regt. native of the parish of St. Hillary in the Teretory of Nogent de Noutrou in Perche Diocess of Chartres, named Rene le Soup. At 3 I Confessed a young man from the town of Arles in Provence. At 4 I absolved the man whom I confess’d at 2 this morning. About 2 in the aft. the wind began to fabour our Destination, and we spare no pains to benefit of it. At 6 I anointed the saillor from Narbonne who was then very ill and already Delirious, after which, I anointed the young man from Arles who is persuad’d that Death is near him. At little after 6 the wind Varied again, which occasioned us to bend our Course towards the west end of the Island of Minorque, and pass by port Mahon. This Island abounds with oranges and is somewhat mountainous….
APRIL 1783
1 At 4 this morning Rene le Soup Departed this life. At 8 after performing the last Ceremony I saw his body pierce the Deep. At 9 I Celebrated a Votive Mass to the B.V. and administered the Viatic to Jacques Perot from Arles. The weather is fine, the breeze lively, and we steer towards the Islands of Sardigne. At 12 we are observed Lat. 39.20 At 2 aft. we tacked and lay the ship to due E the wind at NNE. At 5 and a half the above mention’d saillor from Narbonne died named Pierre Commet, whose last obsequies I performed. At 8 at night, he died of a hydropsical humour of the Brains…
2 This Day was very fine and for the most part Calm, the wind tho’ low is foul. At 8 I Celebrated mass for a woman on board a taylor’s wife, who gave me 10 sols Inveloped in paper for my pains! I ask you, my Dr. friend, if it does not deserve an apostrophe? Warm & Calm. Lat. observed 39:19…
3 Very fine weather this morning and Calm as yesterday. At 6 we were in View of Port Mahon and of a high mountain in the Country about 10 leagues Distance, bearing due W of us Steering NNE. At 2 aft. we were on a paralel from W to E, with the lands end of Minorque, the wind at NE. We make at prest. two knots pr. hour, and one only all the forenoon. At 6 we steered to NNe by N on whichy Course we continued the whole night…
4 The morning fine and calm which continued so the whole day, at Twilight we had view of the Island of Minorque, being then by Computation about 12 leagues behind us…
5 About 3 this morning the wind began to freshen a little…. At 6 we Run 4 and a half Knots. At 8 we made 6. At 10 o’clock 7 and a half which we Continued the whole day afterwards. At 12 we were in observed Lat. 41:30 about 36 Leagues Computed from Toulon. At 3 in the aft. the Commandant of the Division hoised a signal Indicating that one of his men fell over board, and Immediately after signifyed by an-other signal that he perished. At 4 we ploughed the plains of Neptune with pleasure, and all our Canvas spread before the Gentle Breeze which stood at NNW. At 8 at night we run at the rate of 8 and a half Knots which we Continued untill near 3 o’clock in the morning and afterwards something less…
6 At 4 this morning it fell quite calm, at said time we were within two small leagues of Cape Seicio and of Cape Sipet between which there’s a small bay in which may be seen two huge rocks representing by thier figure two sugar loaves, known by the name of les deux freres, or two Brothers. ‘Twas in this bay, the English fleet anchored in the preceding war, (I know not if it was in the year 1759 sooner or later) from whence they Canonad’d the road of Toulon and Damaged several ships therein. To the NW of this bay may be seen a very high & Craggy mountain on whose submit there’s a very handsome Chappel dedicated to la Vierge de la Garde, that is to say “to our Gardien Lady”. At 6 a thick mist Coming from the Land spread itself around us in a manner that one could not Distinctly see a large object half the ship’s length, which Continued also very thick untill 11 o’clock when the heat of the sun began to attract and Dispel it. Near 12 a very light breeze sprung up which almost refused us access to enter the passage or road of Toulon. At 12 and a half a young saillor from Toulon named Jean Antoine Sauvadiere was suddenly seased in his throat (being already ill of a flusion of the breast & lungs) after being on deck at 11 seeing the land his native soil and by eating to much, for he said he was exceedingly hungry, died with a full belly. I was at Dinner when the news of a dying man came to my ears, upon which I ran to where he lay and absolved him, after which I gave him the holy Oils. At one o’clock he throbed forth the last blast of life; at 4 and a half just after Vespers, according to my Commandant’s orders, after performing the usual Ceremonies on such occasions, I saw his body pierce the Deep like several others before him. I Celebrated mass at 11 for ’twas Sunday. A few minutes before 4 o’clock, the Commandant of the Division signaliz’d to the ships of Convoy & the ships of Line to enter the road, each as well as he Could without further Ceremony. The wind in a short time after became a little favourable for that desired end, tho, very slack. In this Condition & position we put our our boats to tow the ship at least to anchorage and if possible into the road. In fine at 40 minutes after 6 we came to an anchor opposite the King’s hospital, in the Gullet near the Entrance of the road. The suffisante was the first ship that came to her anchors, and the Active was the 2nd. We had not been long here before a boat was sent a long side of us with orders to serve a quarantine of 6 days and all the other ships in like manner. We have 67 sick now on our arrival the most of whom are very ill and in great need of being changed to better quarters. The road of Toulon is very fine, encompass’d on all sides by huge mountains which defend the ships from the attacks of roaring Bareas and all other winds. The Vase or bottom is excellent being something slimy, and by that means the Cables are never Cut or offend’d as in other ports & harbours….
Behold, my Dear friend, we are now (thanks to God) arrived safe after a passage from Cadiz hither of 28 days & 6 hours, but I may say, in a sad Condition; having 67 persons sick, some of Agues, some of fluxions of of the Breast & lungs, others of putrid & malignant fevers, of scurvys, epidemical diseases. We lost but five only on the passage as are already marked in their proper places, but that’s not all: for from the day of our departure untill the present we were mocked both by the winds & the waves like Eneas, and Driven to & fro by storms & tempests. We withstood the shocks of three different gales of wind, of which the two last were exceeding heavy and exposed us to a near Danger of perishing; but providence is always powerful & greatt. We were not long in the Mediteranean before the first gale of wind opened several leaks on board the ship. The 2nd gale, which you might Call a tempest, opened the ship so as, to make 25 inches of water each hour which never after Diminished. The 3rd which was of the same nature of the latter; but by Degrees more violent, did not happilly augment the leaks, as they were stoped in some sort the day before the tempest. Our men never forsook the pomps day nor night these 18 or 20 days past, except in hours of repast.
As we had a total Change of Officers, by orders of Monsr. le Compt D’Estaing at Cadiz so my Intention is to remark to you the names of those who were with us on board in this voyage, as follows…
Monsieur de Boiloign Lieut. Commandant in Chief… (
Monsieur le Chevalier de Peyroux Ensign, 1 Lieut. for ( the voyage only. (
Monsr. Croustet Ensign. a swede by nation….. (
Monsr. de Joannis Ensign……. (
Monsr. Guenteaume Lieut. de frigate, auxillary..from ( Marseilles (
Monsr. Chalery de Blanchelande, idem…from Nantes… (
Monsr. Duniagon de Monplaisir Do..from near Bordeaux (
Modener……………………Do…….. (
Monsr. de la Panouze garde de Pavilion…
Monsr. de Lascazes garde de la marine…
Monsr. Salome Major Chirurgeon from Toulon…
John Bapt. Kavenagh D. of fernes….Ireland….
Capns. & officers of Infantry on Board….
Monsr. de Pominier Capn. Commandant of a detatchment of Haynault Regiment…
Of a Detatchment of Piedmont’s Regt…
Monsieur de la Bonne Capn. Commandant…
Monsr. de la Baigneaux Capn…
Monsr. le Chevalier de gaston Capn. in 2nd…
Monsr. le Chevalier de frileuze Lieut….
Monsr. Rengouse Lieut. in 2nd…
Monsr. de Miremont…idem…
Monsr. de france…idem…
Of Perche’s Regt…
Monsr. du Blanc Cap. Commandant…
Monsr. D’aincourt Capn. in 2nd…
Monsr. de St. Sylvestre…idem…
Monsr. de Vassal des Marais Lieut. in 2nd
Monsr. N a swede officer belonging to one of the last named Regiments
Monsr. St. Euiyes volunteer from Paris…
Monsr. N.. Do. from ….. Do…
Monsr. N.. Do. from ….. Do…
Monsr. Borzquet 2nd Chirurgeon…
Monsr. N………… Do…….
Monsr. N. Apothecary………..
Monsr. de la Manche Commic & thesaurie de la marine….
Monsr. Dennio nephew to the former…..
N.B. Monsieur de St. Sylvestre who remained in Cadiz at the time of our departure made the passage on board one of the Convoy ships.
7 A perfect calm & a thick fog this morning which vanished about 9 o’clock, at which time we weighed our anchors in order to approach nearer to their port. No less than one hundred boats came this day along side our ship, some enquiring for their fathers, whilst others enquired for their Brothers, friends & sweethearts, not daring to venture going on board under the penalty of a rigorous & violent Death, as you must obsreve, my Dr. friend, that all the ships which come hither from all parts of the Levant. Especially from Constantinople & all the places which are generally infected by the pleague, are obliged to serve ordinarly a full quarintine. Some even for 6 months according to the Constitutions of the laws established here by order of the Goverment. There are Hospitals here near the Entrance of the road into which such of his majesty’s subjects as have not the pleague are admitted, tho, after some esential formalities, that is after a proper Declaration is made by the Commanding Capn. of each ship, and by the major Chirurgeon of said board, of the Condition of the sick. On the SW. side of the bay, may be seen a place inclosed with a high wall and a house therin for the use of those who are infected with the pleague. At 12 we Came to an anchor at a small distance from the Entrance of the Port, and almost all the rest of the ships at different hours.
As we were coming to our anchors where we lay last night, in hoising up the fore top yard it broke suddenly in the middle, happily for us that it did not break whilst we were at sea. After Dinner, the saillors began to strip the ship of her sails, cordage, yards…..
The town of Toulon seems handsome & agreeable enough, but as I know nothing of its beauties as yet, I intend speaking of it hereafter.
As to the suburbs, all around the town, the bay and the road, they are Encompassed by a chain of high hills & mountains whose tops for some distance downwards are fruitless, but from thence to the Town and to the sides of the bay, they are cultivated for the most part in Amphitheaters, and abound with olive & pine trees, some oranges, vineyards and handsome gardens. I have not, from my present View in the road, the sight of these beautiful objects alone, but of a vast number of Country seats built by the Cytizens into which they sometimes retire to look down on the town & Comtemplate on its Beautie’s, pleasures, pastimes & views! I cannot persuade you how pleasant it is to behold them at the present distance, as they Command the most lively prospect of the town, built on the submit of a round hill, named Sifour, which bears the title of a Chapter and Very Antient. The Road on all sides is well fortifyed by forts so as that no Enemy dare approach it. At 5 in the aft. the Indien man of war (which was the last) Came to an anchor in the road; at said hour we dispatched a great number of sick saillors to the Hospital; the soldiers who are sick will be sent tomorrow to another Hoppital destined for their use…
We had an account this Evening, that the City of Messina Capital of the Island of Sicilly, was absorbed by a vulcaneous earthquake which vomited fire & flames of sulphur, so as to have buried in its ruins and in its Invirons 40,000 souls in the fatal moment of its Dissolution, and as the magazines which were stowed with Corn, flour for the publick use of the Inhabitants in general, were in like manner absorbed with the City; the King of france who has always a feeling for the Distressed has (as it is reported) Ordered several frigates & transports to take in provisions of all Kinds for the speedy relief of those who escaped in the City & for the Inhabitants of the Island: there are in Consequence to his Majesty’s Orders two frigates here ready to put to sea so soon as the wind will favour their Destination….
Altho the ruin of the City of Messina be very true, the rest seems Contradictory: for the Island of Sicily abounds with corn so as not only to furnish its Inhabitants, but in like manner the neighbouring Countries and Islands in the Mediteranean with plenty; wherefore we must not suppose that all the provisions of the Island were laid up in the City. Howbeit, the two frigates are ready to put to sea and ’tis said, that they are destined for Sicily……
The next news which this day afford’d us was that of the River Garonnes overflowing its banks to a surprising height, and by its Rapidity Carried away a great number of houses, Cattle and not only Damaged the fine lawns & plains on each side of its Channel, but Caused a Considerable damage to the City of Bordeaux, and to the merchant ships several of which were carried away from their anchors by the force of the Currents and were Cast into meadows or foundered. 3ly, that the River Loir occasioned in like manner a very considerable loss to the merchants & cytizens of Nantes….
4ly, that the King of Sweden has ushed out orders to all his subjects in the marine service of france to return home as speedy as possible, as his majesty intends to equip a fleet without delay; but we are Ignorant of his majesty’s Intention…..
8 Early this morning some of our men began to descend the yards, whilst others were employed in puting the Charges of powder into Barrels in order to send it to the magazines. We have (tis said) obtained Indulgence from our quarantine, and be admitted to go on shore tomorrow, and the ship in all probability will be towed into the port…
Observer here, that the Lion Came from Cadiz hither in 8 days, and the puissant, who sailed out with us, arrived in 15, having 80 sick on board when she came to Toulon…
At 3 this aft. we began to Embark the sick soldiers of the several Detatchments on board, for the hospitals; but before that was compleatly executed we received Counter orders to desist untill future orders. At 3 and a half I went in our boat to the Consign with some of our officers. The Consign, my Dr. friend is situated on the town side of the port where ’tis absolutely required of all the Captains of ships that come into the road to appear and make there their first declaration; you may if needful pass your money, letters, or any other small packet in this place to your friends in town, ’twill be received from you by a man who holds on Iron tonges in his hands, in the jaws of which he receives your packet or your letter, and Immerges it Immediately into a bucket of strong vinegar after which he pass’s it to a 2nd person and he again to a third who sit or stand behind each other in 3 distinct partitions separated by Iron bars. At this place you have but 6 square yards to stand on taking length & breath multiplied. At 4 I returned on board, and at 6 we received an order or rather a permission to send our sick tomorrow to the Hospitals. Nothing more of any great Consequence during the day, but fine weather….
9 Near 7 o’clock this morning, we Embarked 30 sick soldiers of the different Detatchments on board, and sent them to the fort named Marques: I went to accompany them tither with our Major Chirurgeon Monsieur Salome Junior of the town of Toulon. This fort is built on the submit of a little hill situated to the S. of the Town and Commands both the latter & the Entrance of the road, from whence you have a beautiful prospect all round: ’tis very large, strong & well fortifyed; no less than 350 or 400 pieces of Canon can play from it at once an occasion.
After I had viewed this famous fort and seen the sick placed in their quarters, Monsieur Solome Conducted me to see fort St. Louis which is situated on the brink of the Road about 60 perches distance from the former; this fort, tho, small is also strong & well fortify’d, but its situation does not render it so secure as the former. A little after 9 we returned on board, having in our way seen several fine gardens full of different species of fruit trees.
At 12 a sail maker in 2nd named Micheal Faber from the parish of Bandonne 3 leagues from Toulon, who had been somewhat ill these few days past, and taking his soop at Dinner in his post with his Comrades, fell Dead on the spot all of a sudden; after some delay both the Priest and the Doctor were alarmed to his succour, upon which we left table for we were at Dinner also, and made all possible speed to where he lay, and found him Dead on our arrival. This accident made a great alarm on board, and the more so, as our Quarintine was not to expire before 3 in the aftn. you may Judge my Dr. friend, into what a Consternation this threw us into! What a blow this was against us in our present unhappy Condition and Circumstances! for if you only understand the laws of serving a Quarantine, you’ld have pity & Compassion for us, especially being so near to have its duration expired, being again so near land & dare not lay foot thereon. At length to ease our Grievance, ’twas resolved that the Commandant of the ship, the major Chirurgeon & the Chaplain should go to the Consign with some others who were prest. the moment he fell, and there make a Declaration of the manner of his Death…. His comrades (who were as anxious for going on shore as our Capn. and officers) fearing if they would Declare the truth of the matter in question that we should serve a more severe quarantine than the former, gave a very handsome turn to the Circumstances of this poor man’s Death, declaring that he fell by accident from the 2nd battery into the first, down the descending ladder or stairs by which he was killed. This assertion of declaration having taken place, we were ordered to return Immediately on board, and send his Corps to be interred at the hospital Churchyard situate’d on the W side of the road, and that the sick which still remained on board should be also sent to said hospital, adding that when that would be executed the Commandant, Chirurgeon Major and Chaplain should return back again to the Consign after 3 o’clock to sign their names to the aforesaid declaration at the office of said place. This ordered! thus executed, and at 3 and a quarter we returned again to the Consign where we were admitted to enter the office; where we three already mentioned set our names & titles to the above named Declaration, after which we had full liberty to pass & repass throughout all parts of the town wherever we pleased. The most of our officers Came with us to the Consign, and were well pleas’d that their Captivity was at an End. All these Ceremonies being over, we all entered the town which I viewed for the most part this aft. the port, Bason, Docks, galloons. As I shall perhaps hereafter have occasion to speak of them, I shall therefore omit a further detail at prest. At 6 and a half I returned on board. At 7 we Embarked the powder for the magazines, the weather very fine and serene….
10 I arose very early this morning and went to town at 7 o’clock to leave my foul Linnen to be washed and a Cane with a turner to be mounted with an Ivory head; I returned on board near 8 o’clock at which time we were sending our troops to town with their Baggage. The rest of the day was Employed in Embarking Cables, Riggings, Bullets. At 2 aft. I went to town where I walked a great deal, and made a tour without the Ramparts, in which I found his Majesty’s Garden, which tho, small is very neat and the trees in their full verdure. I returned at 6 and a half on Board….
11 The morning dark and Cold. At 1 it rained very heavy for the space of an hour accompanied by several claps of thunder which broke the clouds and dispersed the rain which was much desired in these parts for the fruits of the Earth. I went to town after Dinner where I almost wearied myself walking untill 5 o’clock when I returned on board. The weather very fine, the Evening became very serene and a beautiful moonshine, a clear firmament….
12 The morning cloudy & cold. At 4 we began to Embark and send off our Bullets and several other noxious Implements of war to the magazines in the port. A rumour has spread this day, that we’ll not be admitted to haul the ship into the port for a month hence. Howbeit, we still continue discharging the ship of her Lumber without the least delay. We sent 14 sick persons to the hospital this morning and as many yesterday in the aftn. and on the 10th, we sent 25 which makes in the Course of 3 days 53 in number, and nevertheless there are still some sick on board.
My Dr. friend, you may Judge of our Condition something better and truer by this small account I here give you of it and were we to go to the Indies, we would not have at the end of 6 months one man alive out of every score physically speaking. All the other ships were not treated with less rigour of sickness for the most part than we were, even some something worse: for one ship had on her arrival here from Cadiz 60 sick persons and 5 cast over board on the passage. Others had 10. 6. 3. more or less lost on the passage……
There are several ships of the Convoy still absent being Driven by The tempests to & fro; some Dismasted, others ’tis said have perished as they were observed in the last hurricane to be in the utmost distress.
13 Being palm Sunday, I Celebrated mass, but not with the usual ceremonies by orders of my Commandant. After Dinner I went to town where I walk’d untill I was wearied. At 5, there fell some small quantity of rain. At 5 and a half we Received Orders to bring the ship into the port on the 15. This morning we sent 10 sick to the Hospitals, and our scurbitick yesterday. At 7 I returned on board….
14 This morning at 4 o’clock we sent 9 sick persons to the hospital,
JOURNAL OF
FR. JOHN KAVENAGH:
BOOK 11 (p. 183 to 245)
And afterwards the mattress’s, sheets, hammocks (which would not be received in the town magazines) to a place apart out of town where there will be on Communication with them & the Cytizens. I went to Town after Dinner, where I recreated myself walking the streets after I had bought a pair of pomps which cost me 4Liv.:10sols.. I returned on board at 7 o’clock….
15 At 3 this morning our men began to weigh anchor and in a short time they broke the screw of one of the Cabstans which delay’d Our entering the port sooner than 6 and a half and by 7 and a half the ship was Completely in her birth, where she’s likely to remain a long time. The puissant is on one side & the Gueriere on the other. We sent 7 sick persons to the hospital this morning who were the last that remained on board, making since we Came here the number of 154 which were sent to the hospitals, some of putrid fevers, malignant fevers, Intermiting fevers, Common agues or two days fevers, fluxions of the breast, heart & lungs, scurbitics. I dined for the last time on board the Active, after which I went to town where I took a pension at the white horse Chez N. with whom I remained during my stay in town…
16 I spent this morning going from one office to an other to receive my Conduct money which was Counted to me at 11 o’clock, to wit the sum of 319 Livs. 11 and a half neat pay. The aft. in troting up & down….
17 I gave up, this morning,possession of my Chappel, bed & bed cloaths at the office of Desarmament, for which I received a receipt which I gave to our Lieut. of the major state, after whcih I received again an Order of Desarmament tho, dated for tomorrow, in which was specifyed that I received nothing here with regard to my appointments, as I chuse to take it up in Brest on my return. At 4 aft. I was informed that Lieut. McCarty was Dangerously ill or perhaps Dead at Sciota a town about mid-way between Toulon & Marseilles …. I have now, my Dr. friend, almost worn out a new pair of shoes seeking & hunting after those whom I oblige’d in their necessities by lending them my money. ’tis not, the loss of the shoes I Complain of most, but of the soreness of my feet which are now in a sad Condition by walking on the Confound’d pavements of Toulon: behold the recompence of my services! a great many blisters on the soles of my feet. I sought after them & when I found them I found them money-less, by means of which I’m Obliged to remain in this town 24 hours longer than I expected….
18 As I was passing by the post office Curiosity led me to the window & having asked were there any letters for the Chaplain of the Active I was not a little surprised to find 4 letters directed to me, all dated in may, June and July 1782. All of them were first Directed to Brest and , from thence hither, as the ship’s Destination has been Known there this time past. Their postage Cost me 3Livs..13. sols. There were twon of them from the Marquis of Lambilly and his Lady. A third written by the Count of Lambilly and his sister, and a 4th by the Rev’d Mr. Sommers Chaplain to the Count of Menou governor of teh Castle of Nantes. At 6 aft. I receiv’d 28 Livs. which I lent a young man on board, which was the sole Impediment I had for not leaving town this morning. I was Informed said time of the Death of Monsr. de Bollenvilliere Ensign from Brest who died on his passage home from Cadiz. he was on board our ship the rest of the Campaign untill a few days before our departure. I supped at 10 and at 12 I went to bed…
19 The Active was this day given up to the Care of his Majesty. I arose at 4 this morning, and prepared myself in a few minutes for a long & tedious Journey. At 4 and three quarters, I mounted in a Chaise in Company with Monsr. Chalery de Blanchelande auxillary officer and so parted for Marseilles…..
In the name of God, and under the auspices & protection of the B.V. & my good angel I set out of Toulon by the west gate at 5 o’clock & had not advanced a league from town before we began to enter between two very high mountains fruitful in nothing except olive & pine trees which are not the best in their specie for production, we were under the Clifts of these mountains for the space of 3 miles, whose Impending rocks which hang on each side are Capable of terrefying the Human heart by the aspect of their noding surly brows, abstracting from the barreness of the place and Its savageness in every respect; I add to these, the narroness of the road which is hewn at the foot of one of these mountains and supported by a wall of 15 feet in height on one side to bring it on a level with the other. In passing through this place we perceived a very refreshing air, for untill 10 o’clock this day of the year the Sun Cannot send his Enlivning rays into this Confound’d place, nor blemish the traveller being Intercepted by the height of the mountain. In fine, after we had left this place of horror behind us, we arrived at a small village named Oulliouille situated in a valley. Here I saw plenty of Orange trees, a Convent of fryars, I know not of what order, but suppose franciscans, and nothing else worth notice….
At the Distance of 4 miles further towards Marseilles we passed through an-other somewhat larger village than the former named Beauset where I saw nothing worth Inserting, only that like the former, ’tis well secured by its situation from winds & storms by the mountains which envioron it all around; here we made no stay, but passed on to a town named Cuges where we arrived at 10 o’clock and set up & dined at the sign of St. Antoine or Anthony, Chez Bonnefay, where we were but moderately treated, tho, paid well for our repast. This Town is also situated between two mountains, but the flat or valley is here far wider than I have seen since I left Toulon, it being about half a mile in Breath and a mile in length, very beautiful & handsomely Cultivated. At 1 o’clock we left Cuges and after passing by the side of this pleasant valley which we had on our left, we found ourselves all of a sudden to descend between two as huge, high and craggy mountains as I believe are on the Globe, leaving only by their situation a very narrow & meandering road between them in the place of a valley. These mountains whose sides are hoary and rugged with rocks tumbled one upon an-other in a manner altogether stupendious, produce nothing better than a vast quantity of pine trees to their very tops, and ’tis Incomprehensive how they produce verdure and sap, as there’s not the least dust of Earth to be seen throughout the whole mass from where these trees raise their tops some to 40 feet in air, and produce a vast quantity of Rosin. The seeds of these trees falling between the Clifts, providence provides for them by taking roots which penetrate the Crannies of the Rocks. The trees of a long standing are cut down, having first drained off their substance. Be assured my Dr. friend, had you a Company of Grenadeers to guard you passing through this place, you would nevertheless think yourself in some Danger, of either being assassined by Robbers, as is frequent the fate of travellers in these parts, Devoured by wolves, or at length, of being Crushed into atoms by the grim Impending rocks whcih seem to nod perpetually and ready to fall down on the passengers. In fine, being clear of these horrid Rocks abounding with Dens of thieves, murdering Robbers & wolves in the space of two hours, we perceived the light of heaven, the mountains to separate and lower a little by gradation leaving a plain on each hand not very extensive. We were not very long in this delightful valley before we Came in view of a most Charming Vale of ground at the opening of which there’s a gentleman’s seat named Bertade de Gemineau, which we left on the right and at the Distance of a mile on the further side of the valley at the foot of the mountain, I saw Another seat which is famous for its Cascades and Other artificial works all of which made a very fine figure at the prest. distance. Not far from the former, I had also a very beautiful prospect of St. Jean de Guerguet des miracles. Having pass’d through this fine valley which has the appearance of a delightful Garden, abounding in vineeyards, corn and fruit trees of various Kinds, we arrived at a very handsome town named Aubagne which is about the size of Eniscorthy; the streets of this town are handsome and streight, the Houses are neat & high and in great uniformity for the most part. Among these beauties and many others may be reckon’d a very beautiful and large Convent of fryars. In the suburbs on the righ hand may be seen a very beautiful edifice belonging to the Bishop of Marseille from hence to Marseille you’ll find on each hand the true Emblem of the most Delightful garden: the verdure of the plants, trees, and herbs delight the Curious eye of the traveller, whilst their various odours agreeably gratify Another sense not less pleasing than the former. ‘Twas in this place that I was amused and delighted, beholding the labours of the Industerous husbandman; the operations of the plants, trees & herbs assisted by providence, man skill, and the genial nature of the Climate promised here an ample reward to the Labourer. I was not above an hour viewing the beauties of this terestrial paradise before the Dust began to rise, which obliged me to the great regret of my senses, to take refuge from it in my phaeton, because I esteemed their Existance before their gratification, altho, I never yield’d before I was whitened like a miller and almost stifled, this happened about a league from Marseille, whree I arrived at 6 o’clock and set up at the Inn known by the name of Loriol, after I had refreshed myself I went to walk in town, but in particular to the port. I returned near 8 to the Inn and began to write the above according to my Observations in waiting for supper, which according to the ordinance of the house is to be ready at 9 o’clock. My Dr. friend, my eyes are half shut this moment. I have a good appetite, I wish I may have a good supper to appaise it. Oh. ho. I hear the Clock strike the hour of supper, the maid rings the Bell, I’ll descend, so adieu, I wish you both a good night, and a pleasant Easter….
20 I Remember, my Dr. friend, that I closed yesterday’s occurrences by going to supper, where we were 18 in number, one of whom measured six feet 4 Inches french standard and Corpulent withal. I went to bed at 11 o’clock a little wearied….. This morning at 9 o’clock I went to perform my Easter Duty, and Confessed to the Guardian of the Capuchin fryars in this town, but received Communion in the parish Church of St. Martin’s which is spacious & well ornamented. After I had been Confess’d by the guardian, he Informed me that there was an Irish Gentleman in his Convent who sent for him Immediately to speak with me. On this Gentleman’s approack, I saluted him, and after the Ceremonies of salutation were over and a few interogations on each side, he told me his name was Herbert, but, tho, his father was a real Irishman even from Cork, he himself was born in some part of the Levant, and made his studies in rome, and was now accually, I might say, on his way to Bordeaux where he expects to Embark for Ireland to see his relations. Mr. Herbert Informed me that there were two Irish gentlemen augustinian fryars on board, a swede in the port serving quarantine which will be terminated the 22nd Instant. They made their studies in Rome also, I had not the honr. of seeing or Knowing them. Whilst I was in the Capuchin’s Vestry, I accidentally met with a Mr. Fitzsommons from the province of Ulster (aged about 50 years) as he was going to Celebrate mass and had not time to Converse long enough with him as I was obliged to go to the parish Church to receive Communion…. At Dinner, we were 30 in number at Table. At 3 aft. I went to see the Church named St. ferial which I found very fine whose chief ornament Consisted (except the high alter) in a set of fine (organs – from thence I went to see the port which I found very beautiful, but at the same time, I believe must be naturally very unwholesome on account of the Town shores falling intoit and no flow of Tide to Carry off the stench or refresh the waters. I remember that I found the stench very disagreeable, and suppose it to be pernicious to the near Inhabitants at least for 9 months in the year on account of the great heat of the Climate and the rays of the sun daily darting thereon must in all probabillity be vaperous and in consequence noxious to some part of the City or the bordering Country. The entrance of this port is quite narrow, in the Center in which there’s a mole from whence they raise the Chains each night to the fortifycations which are on each side, there can but two ships only enter at once, that is, one on each side of the mole. The Deepest water is between 15 and 17 feet. The port is about 100 perches in length by 15 or 30 broad. The town is Considerably Large and Compact about twice the size of Toulon and not I think so large as that of Cadiz. The streets are in some parts Regular and in general Considerably wide and by far better paved than them of Toulon and well peopled. Here you’ll find people from all the trading quarters and Countries of the world, notwithstanding its Great Commerce. It does not seem to outsis with Nantes. The houses are from 4 to 6 story high and well built in general. Walk either late or early in this town, you’ll never miss to have your shoes besmeared with treacle Dumplins as well as in Toulon and almost in all the other towns in this province. You’ll observe, that when nature Calls, you are to go to the uper end of the stable where you’ll find a sort of a scaffold over which you’ll find a Breech real upon which yoiu may place and support yourself. If you miss of finding such a place in the stables, as is frequently the Case in some places, you may content yourself by not seeking further for a thingk that does not exist. I can assure you that I found these king of places oftentimes so throng that they almost resembled a hen roost, having their faces turned all one way and their backsides Another; millers law here, every one still in his turn! The 5 large trading ships from holland which I saw in Cadiz bay are here at prest. in the port.
The Bay here is very fine & spacious W of the town envioron’d by very high land in the form of a Crescent. The ships may lye at anchor in it in all security by the shelter of the land. Towards the NW side of the Bay, the Country is Embellish’d with fine houses built by the negotiants and merchants. The Cathedral and the Bishop’s palace are no small ornaments to the town. I saw the Barracks whcih is of a great
length, but in beauty not extroardinary. There’s a sort of an old wall round the City & several gates thereon. Without side of the walls may be seen several fine streets of a modern construction and some publick walks all set with fine rows of trees and fronted by very elegant edifices. The Country as well as the town makes a beautiful figure, charming seats beyond number , and the whole place seems to have been designed for gardens of pleasure and at the same time as fruitful as delightful. The fairer sex are better ornamented here & better shaped and more handsome than in Toulon. They paint by measure, and both the young & the old reason methodically with art.
21 I went to the Capachin’s Church this morning where I heard mass, for ’twas easter monday; here I met again with the Reverend Mr. Fitzsommons who, after he had Celebrated mass brought me to his Lodgings, and procured 15 GLouis D’ors for me in place of silver which by way of Camby I gave him a return of 45 sols. After Dinner he Invited me to a Coffee house where I cam eacquainted with a Mester Toole subdeacon who was born in france of Irish parents. I invited these two Gentlemen to sup with me, which Invitation they accepted, we were bu 4 at table each drank his Bottle of good Champaigne for which I paid the
Livres
sum of ……………………………………… 18:00
for 7 repasts at this Inn ……………….. 12:05
extroardinary at supper ……………….. 1:00
to the servants …………………………… 1:00
at Toulon for my Diet, bed …………… 16:00
———
total 48:5
=========
After supper, I ushered these gentlemen to their Lodgings accompanied by an officer, on our returning back to the Loriol I had the discharge of a pot from a Chamber window, about my ears, and know not by what blind chance. I escaped from being well bedewed by it, it savoured strong enough for maiden’s water; howbeit, my Companion Monsr. Duniagon de Montplaisir who arrived who arrived here from Toulon on the 20th, received a far greater portion of it. I took out my Tablet and took the name & number of the house with a design to persecute the house accoring to the Constitutions of the City; but on reflection, I abandoned that project, as I had already engaged a place in the Stage Coach for Montpeller. On our return we went to bed being then near 11 at night….
22 This being a festival, a day of obligation of hearing mass in this Diocese according to the Rites & tenets of the C. of Rome, I went in Consequence & heard mass in the Capuchin Church where I acquitted myself of a duty so Esential; on my return to the Loriol, I put my Baggage in the Coach and mounted at 10 o’clock, at which time we parted from Marseilles. On our way to Aix about mid-way, I met with N an English Lord who was then making the tour of france with whom I had a Conversation of 5 minutes at an inn where he Dined & where we refreshed. I remember his tutor was, as he Informed me, from the Queen’s Co. in Ireland, whose name I forget also. Arriving at Aix at 6 aft. we set up at the 3 mules or the 3 merchants, I now forget which. After I had Refreshed myself I went to view the town which I found Considerably large and somewhat of greater size than that of Toulon. Aix is situated on high ground from whence you may behold a very beautiful and extensive Valley on the left towards the S. The Houses for the most part are Elegant, four story high, but no Balconies. The streets, tho, large & streight are badly paved, so as to make the best shod person halt & Gringe, who walks them. That is not the only bad property to be found in Aix. ‘Tis worse by degrees than either Toulon or Marseilles for filth & nastiness! for before every door & every window you pass by, you’ll never fail of finding under foot the full discharge of the Chamber pot, and ’tis not to be Doubled were you to patrolle there at night, but you would find several in the length of one street in a more sensible manner, as well as at Marseilles. Aix appeared to me not people’d to its size, and Immagine that its Commerce is not great. I saw nothing else there, only what I have already remarked. I paid for my bed & supper 45 sols. The bed was indeed good and I slept well…
23 At 5 o’clock, we left the town of Aix and at 10 we arrived at a small town named Lambaise where we made a sort of Dinner, or Rather breckfast & Dinner at once, for which we paid 9 sols each. Teh states are held in this town, and nothing worth inserting besides therein only a few hotels of ancient of modern construction. At 12, we left lambaise and on our way to ordon we had a very fine flat, which for the most part is full of olive & mulbery trees, the latter for the use of nourishing the silk worms with which these parts abound. In our aft’s March we had view of the River Durance which takes its source in the Alpes not far from Savoy, and looses itself in the River Rhone at Avignon. On the S. side of this fine flat we left on the left a chain of rocks which Encompass’s it on that side to Ordon; at the foot of this Chain of Rocks again may be seen a new Canal which pass’s by the Town of Ordon. On Coming to this town about the distance of a league we pass’d through a village, where I saw a very beautiful seat, gardens, woods & walks belonging to Monsieur du Labiere member of the provencial parlement. On our near approach to the town we found the rocks of a surprising height and grim withal, over the submit of which near the town is situated a Convent of which makes no great figure except that of being nearer heaven by its situation than several others. In fine, we arrived in Ordon at 6 o’clock where we set up at the hotel des Lunieres chez Tibeau. Having here refreshed myself, I went to see the town & its Curiosities which afford’d me none to its honr. for ’tis a nasty hole! What I saw worth observation here, is the new canal, which passes Very near the Town under a huge rock for the space of 387 english yards or 180 toisse french. I suped well, and went to bed at 10.
24 This morning at 3 and a quarter I was in my place in the stage Coach, at which time we left the town of Ordon. From thence to Tarescon on the R. Rhone we had a most delightful plain in view, leaving on our left a Continuation of the Chain of Rocks & Mountains for 7 leagues this day, which we had on the same hand coming to Ordon. About 4 leagues from Ordon we Came to a town named St. Remy about the size of the former and in beauty much equal, the streets all in meanders, and nothing Curious to be seen. The beauty of this Charming & delightful flat engaged me to walk a great deal this morning. The Country here all around is engaging, abounding in Olive & Mulbery trees set in regular walks and rows here & there in the midst of Vineyards and Corn fields. In one place here, I found the Jolly Sythe’s man wheting his sythe and cuting down trefoil & Clover; at a small distance again I met and saw the sheperds tending their fleecy flocks and playing to them on a slender pipe whose shrill soft and Innocent notes delighted my soul whilst the harmony seemed to delight also the Innocent Ewes united to the entertaining bleatings of their Lamkins. ‘Twas here in this place, I first saw the true emblem of pastoral Innocence; the sheperds cloathed in the true dress of sheperds, a hook in one hand and a fife in the other, accompanied by their Dogs who never enjoy’d repose, but making Circles round the flocks, ever watchful to protect them from teh Infalts of wolves and other animals of prey. ‘Twas to my great regret I was obliged to leave this terrestrial paradise which so much Delighted & occupyed my senses and despair of seeing ever again so much beauty, Innocence & harmony united together.
At 11 and a half we arrived at Tarascon a Considerable town seated on the left side of the River rhone. On my arrival here, my first care was, to visit the toomb of St. Martha in a Church Dedicated to her name & honr. The Toomb, which is in a dark Cave is Certainly Curious, before which I saw 12 lamps which burn day & night. The Toomb & monument is of a beautiful white marble at the foot of which there’s an altar raised of teh same matter. The Body flesh & bones of St. Martha were translated from the Antient toomb where her body was first placed, to the prest. about 8 yards from the former, by the hands of four Bishops about four years ago, and placed in this new toomb under teh finest monument of marble I ever yet seen. In the Church on the right advancing towards the high or great altar of which may be seen the statues of our Redeemer and his Disciples in the most moving & striking manner as they sat with him at his last supper, Judas siting on a chair but non on aline with the rest. Over the Gosple Corner or right hand an aspersoir, and a Thurible in the left Triumphing over a voracious & frightful animal whom by the virtue of her prayers she Caused to die. This hideous animal is named Tarasque, from whichin all appearance the Town took its name Tarascon. It Devoured all that Came near it, and left the Country almost waste, untill at length, by the merits of the H. St. Martha after her Coming into this province freed the Inhabitants from so hideous and voracious an animal as you may see by its portrait. Having seen these Curiosities which are the Chief things to be seen in the Tarescon, except a strong Castle situated on the N or NE side of the town which is washed by the Rhone, I Crossed the River on a bridge of Boats. The Rhone here runs in two Divisions and very rapid leaving a bank of sand & gravel in the middle. Having Crossed this famous river I entered into a very handsome town named Beaucoeur situated on the Right side of the Rhone opposite Tarascon, where I Dined well at the Sign of the Crown chez Robert, for which I paid only 40 sols. Beau cour is famous for one yearly fair which holds for 30 days begining at St. Magdalens; the town is Considerably large Containing several streets and encompassed by a thin wall which was the ancient Custom of the Romans long before the Invention of Canon, powder. The town is by far more regular than Tarascon as to its exterior, and something larger. You’ll observe that having once passed the Rhone we Entered the provinces of Lanquedoc. At 1 o’clock we left Beaucoeur and parted for Nismes where we arrived at 7 and put up at the Inn named Luxembourg. After our leaving Beaucour for the two first leagues, the Country did not please not delight me, but from thence to nismes I found it far better ; as to the Climate & change of provences, I found but little difference except in the food, wine and oil, which are here preferable to that of Provence. The Town of Nismes is pretty large, but Irregularly built, and the Houses in general make an ordinary figure. As I arrived late and time lost by being 20 minutes under tyhe hands of a hair-dresser, I had not time to view it properly. Of all its Curiosities, here are what I saw worth remarking: on my approaching the town, I had view of an old high tower situated on a rock in the suburbs to the west, built by the Romans, but time seems to have reduced it to ruin. Outside the gates & town walls in the temple of Dianna which I did not see, I saw the Amphiteatre built also by the Romans, in which Deliquents and those who were Condemned to Death, fought against the savage race. The Amphiteatre is in Circular form, all in high arches under which ther’re stairs on which the spectators of these Bloody scenes sat or stood during the Combat. Nismes at prest. is famous Only for the silk manufacture which is there carried on in a very extensive manner. Having supped very well, I went to bed at 10 o’clock, having first paid for it, my bed, house maid & hairdresser 54 sols.
25 I arose this morning at 4 and a half and left the town of Nismes at a quarter after 5. On our way to Lunel we left two small villages behind us of no great Consequence. We Dined at Lunel which is a town about the size of Eniscorthy but much inferior in beauty. After Dinner, I walk’d through all the streets & lanes in this town which I found Crooked and badly paved. Here I saw a Canal by which one might descend to Bordeaux. At 6 and a half aftn. we arrived at Montpellier where we put up at the Inn Known by the name of “La petite ville de paris”, or the little village of paris. On our Coming to this town so much admired by strangers, we had a most delightful view of it for the distance of two miles. On the suburbs on the left, I saw a very neat house and garden belonging to a Regotient. On the right is a very large & fine Convent of Recolet fryars. To the N.E. of the town without the walls is a fine mall about 40 perches in length, near each end of which there ‘ere pure water spouts whcih by their Cemetry make a fine figure to the Eye, there are besides, three rows of trees planted on this wall, but are at prest. too young to form a serviceable shade, the streets of this town in itself affords no extroardinary beauty except its situation, being on high even ground for the greater part, from whence you have a most Charming view of as Delightful a landscape all around you, as any perhaps in the world. Outside of one of the town gates may be seen, my Dear friend, the finest works perhaps this day on the globe for their nature: ’tis named Peru by a figurative expression on acct. of the Immense sums of Money that were laid out on it. You may enter into this Peru by a large Iron gate, where You’ll find a walk representing a garden in some wise of about 180 or 200 Yards in square, on either hand as you’ll advance, you’ll find a pure water spout which is received in a large Bason from whence ’tis Convoy’d away by a subteraneous passage. At a small distance forward on the left of the Central walk is an Equestrian statue of Louis the 15th supported on a high monument of marble Invioroned all round by Iron bannesters which is certainly noble….at the end of the Central walk may be seen one of the finest Basons in Europe, which receives the waters of the famous aquaduct here by a subteraneous way: the Bason is Covered by a Canopy of stone supported by six huge Colomns of curious architecture; between which are 6 Iron banesters in the vacancies to defend the curious from falling int’it. The Bason spouts forth its waters again by several cocks into Another bason in open air, from whence it pass’s into others of lesser note throughout the whole place by subteranean courses. In order to go round this fountain or first Recevoir of the water, you are obleidged to mount near the 4th part of the whole Circumference on marble steps; the finest perhaps in Europe, and at the same time perhaps the widest, and to descend you have the same Distance on right or left, as you list. You’ll find a gain Anothe walk backwards of the fountain & former walk, which surrounds three squares of the first or whole, but lower by 15 feet into which you may descend from either side of teh Bason. Here, in this lower walk may be found alcoves of the finest trees all of which are set in a Cemetry so as that nothing of their nature Can surpass them in beauty & order. the walls which Encompass the higher plot are Divided into Coffee houses, places of retirement & refreshment from the heat.
As to the Aquaduct, ’tis one of the most surprising and stupendious works I have yet seen, being all Combined and Connected together of hewn stone all in high & great arches to acertain height and about 8 feet in Breath. Over these Arches is a smooth passage sufficiently wide for two persons to walk side by side at once. From the Borders or sides of the work over these arches are pillars of stone Indentifyed into others at each end, being about 9 or 10 feet in height in a perpendicular position over which there’s a Canopy across the whole work; over which again the water runs or is Conveyed, and is Covered so as that there’s no view of it untill its arrival in the Bason; the aquaduct near the town for a Considerable distance is near 40 feet in height as the ground is low, but at the Distance of half a mile it lowers by gradation. You have view of it for a great distance into the Country and loose your sight of it in fine…. I have been informed that it runs 7 leagues in the same manner, how true that is I know not but think I never saw any stone work equal to it. In fine, to put an end to this day’s paragraph, I returned from seeing these Beautiful objects to the little village of paris to sup, which being over, the maid brought pen Ink & paper to the Company and pray’d them to give their names; when it Came to my turn, I subscribed these words: “Pady an Irishman”. After which I paid for supper 45 sols to the maid and for porterage & which makes in all 2 Liv. 13 and went to bed at 10 o’clock……
26 I arose at 5 and at 5 and a half I set out of Montpellier on foot having sent my portmanteau by a Carrier to Beziers, not chusing to travel much longer with some of my fellow travellers. On my way 3 leagues from Montpellier I eat a crust of Bread and a glass of Muscade wine of a good bottle which cost me but 4 sols and the bread 1 and a half sols. I gave more than the half of both to a poor soldier who thanked me for my bounty, the poor fellow walk’d 4 leagues with me this morning, but in fine I fataigued him so as that he Cryed out for quarters, and left him at 8 o’clock to repose himself under a shade, for the day was very warm, whilst I continued my march. On arriving to Meze I had for the Distance of two miles an arm of the sea very near the high road. At a quarter after 10 I arrived at Meze where I halted and Dined at the Inn named “le palais Royal. Having here refreshed myself very well and read my office, I went to see the town, which like several others affords nothing Curious except that there’s here a small port for light Craft… At 1 o’clock I set out for Agde where I arrived at 6 and set up at the “Cheval Blanc”, or at the sign of the white horse where I passed the night.
Agde is a Bishop see, the Bishop’s palace which is handsome is united to the Cathedral and situated on the river’s side having a Charming balcony from one extreme to the other. The Cathedral is quite Ordinary and merits no attention. I walked a little in this town, & finding all the streets Crooked, narrow, ill paved and withal besmeared with all sorts of filth, I returned back again to my lodgings not being contented with anything I saw. This town is about the size of Aix and nothing Cleaner. There’s a small port about a mile from the town but of not great Consequence…..
Expences of the day
for Breckfast ………….. 0″5 and a half
Charity ……………… 0″1
for Dinner at Meze & servant 2″4
Refreshment ………….. 0″3
for Supper at Agde & maid .. 2″9
_____
total .. 5″2 and a half
===============
27 I arose before 4 o’clock this morning and went directly to the place of Embarcation on the Canal which goes to Toulouse. The boat, in fine, put off at 5 o’clock for Beziers, where we arrived at 9 and a half. On my arrival in this town, I went to the Cathedral to hear mass, for ’twas Sunday. From Agde to Beziers the Country is both pleasant & charming, abounding in Corn fields, vineyards, fine meadows. About a league from Beziers on the left of the Canal we left a large village, which is surrounded by a wall, named ville neuve, or new-town.
Beziers is a large town about the size of Agde and a Bishop see also. ‘Tis Encompassed by a wall and situated on a little hill, the streets are like them of Agde but not altogether so filthy. Having received my portmanteau from the Carrier And bought several little articles for my use on the Canal, such as, bread, wine, glass’s, I hired a porter to Carry them to the place of Embarcation which is a full half mile from the town. Here are 7 basons and 9 gates for mounting the Canal which is delightful & the work not inferior to the Invention. Having put off about half past 11 we arrived at Somail near sun set, where I suped in Company with three Capuchin fryars from Tarascon, who were returning from Toulouse after preaching the gosple there during the Lent. We were no less than 24 at table. We had an Excellent supper, and as to my bed ’twas excellent. There are at Somail but two publick houses which were very throng this night with the Disarmed saillors. On our way from Beziers here where the Canal has a winding course, I took the occasion of walking with 5 other persons about the distance of 2 miles; in our walk, we Came to a small village, and having entered the Church at the hour of Vespers, we had not time to view it properly, so we left it, and went to a publick house where we refreshed ourselves. In our walk we had a beautiful prospect of a Charming and delightful Country all around us, and of the pirenean mountains on the left bearing about the distance of 12 leagues, whose lofty tops and sides were Covered with snow. One of my fellow travellers gave me his address, and prayed me at the same time to make an Inquisition for some of his friends on my return to Dublin whom he said were of the family of Chaigneau de St. Jean D’anjely en St. Tonge en france. His own address is thus, a Monsieur Joseph Chaigneau merchand D’Orfevre grande rue a Marseilles…..
Expenses of the day for the Carriage of my portmanteau
Liv. Sols
from Montpellier to Beziers …… 1″10
Boat hire for the day ………… 1″ 4
Bread, wine, porterage ……….. 1″14
for supper & servants at Somail .. 1″18
____
6″ 6
====
28 I arose near 5 o’clock and went on board the post boat, which was so Cramed with soldiers, saillors and others that we were several times in danger of being overset by means of the saillors who sought nothing better. Seeing the Danger I was in, I steped on Land with some others and walked 4 leagues before we overtook Another packet-boat on board of which we Embarked. The saillors mutiniz’d yesterday at Beziers where they killed one man outright, and broke the tigh and arm of Another. I shall not forget the Danger I escap’d this day before I left the post or packet-boat; on our way on the side of the Canal we found a small village where we made a sort of Dinner on excellent ham, good wine and Eggs
which cost me only the sum of ..…… 0″9 sols
for wine on the passage ………………. 0″7 and a half
at Trebes for supper & bed …………. 1″15
to the servant maid & porter ………… 0″4
_______________
total 2″15 and a half
for Boat hire from Somail to Trebes ………… 1″16
____________
total 4″11 and a half
===============
You must observe here, my Dr. friend, that we arrived at Trebes near 8 o’clock, and coming to the Inn which was I remember the only one in this place. We took up our lodgings. We had a kind of supper prepared for us which was very Indifferent and not sufficient for half our number, and can assure you that I was more hungry Rising from table than I was in approaching to it. Our hostess, moreover, whose hair was a firery hue, was the true born Daughter of Zantippe, a she Devil if there be but one on Earth, and ’tis not to be Doubled but she had some other Imperfections here to mention. Add to the misfortune of meeting with a bad supper and a scolding brawling Red haired Lanlady that we were obleidged to lye Double. Two hungry & fataigued men in one bed, is by one too many, being only 4 hours in bed, I slept only near one of them….
29 At 3 this morning the Damnable crew of saillors put off for Toulouse in a large bark which was hired expressly for their use, having the wind favourable, by that means we got rid of their Company not to our regret. We others who remained parted at 4 and three quarters. The Country in this place is Delightful abounding with Corn fields, vineyards and olive trees which latter I find are her less Common than in the other parts where I have been. At 12 we made a sort of Dinner in the boat opposite a publick house on the brink of the Canal. Near 1 we put off for the town of Castelnaudary, where we arrived at half past 6 and set up at the Golden Lion. After we were Dressed & powdered, we went to view the town; for you’ll observe here, that my old Companions the officers were with me from Agde. We found this town Considerably Large, the houses are for the greater part built of wood which very probably augments the buggs to a great number, of which there’s no scarcity in these parts. The streets are Crooked an as ill paved as the other towns I have already pass’d. There’s nothing Curious to be seen in Castelnaudary except one Church which is Elegantly ornamented by guildings, sculture &paint’d tablets. The Town is handsomely situated on rising ground from whence there’s a beautiful prospect of a Delightful Landscape. Our hostess whose looks did not betray her bounty, gave us an excellent and plentiful supper which recompenced a bad Dinner. Monsr. de Montplaisir sung her some songs which delighted both her & the Company. She gave us wine at supper as Delicious as nectar, and good beds to lye on free from fleas & buggs, which treatment I think well Deserved paying for it
the sum of ……………………..…………………… 2″5 sols
To porters, servants & for a bottle of wine ……… 11
____
total 2″16
====
There was a priest on board the packet with us this day, of the society named in french: Doctrinaire Chretienne, who seem’d to be a man of Erudition, good sense & morrals, and to merit that station. He part’d with us here at Castlenaudary….
30 We put off this morning at 5 o’clock and at 8 we arrived at the waters Descent, as you must observe, my Dr. friend, that we were mounting the waters from Agde hither. At 12 we arrived at a little place named Negra where we Dined in company with 4 laidies under the shade of a large Elm on the brink of the Canal; these ladies were well pleased at our treatment. We had nothing less this day in our view than the Emblem of a terrestrial paradise on each side of the Canal from Castlenaudary down to Toulouse. The valleys on each hand extends themselves far & wide in which there’s nothing of Barronness to be seen, but on the Contrary, an abundance of Corn, Vineyards, a full prospect of plenty, Charming the eyes of the Curious and weary traveller. The verdure of the fields and the prospect of a teeming harvest Cannot fail of delighting and gladdening the heart of the Indigent as well as the server & miller. About 4 leagues from Toulouse, the Canal I found had an additional beauty, it being some what broader than I have yet found it and ornamented with beautiful trees on either side, the Country too, fill’d with fine Edifices Delightful to be seen both by their situation & prospect all forming a wonderful and at the same time pleasing variety…
In fine we arrived at Toulouse at 7 o’clock, somewhat fataigued for the want of proper & due rest. My Companions the officers and I went to the house formerly known by the name of the “3 princes”, who having resign’d publick Business gave us beds only. We supp’d at an eating house or Cook’s shop for which we paid each three Livres and went to bed at 11 o’clock.
MAY 1783
1 I was awakened early this morning by a hair-dresser who came to dress me, which being done, my feet baithed, linnen changed & my office read, I determined myself for going to visit the Irish seminary in this town; on my way tither, I accidentally met an Irish priest in a haberdasher’s shop native of the Co. Kilkenny named Carroll, who made his studies in Rome and now intends to take out his degrees in this town. After a few Interogations on each side he left the haberdasher’s shop and Conducted me Directly to the Irish seminary; on my arrival there he Introduced me to all the Irish gentlemen who were then 9 in number priests & two boys. I spent some time in Conversation with these gentlemen before their superior returned from town, to whom I was Introduced by Mr. Carroll and paid him my respects: after this gentleman, whose name is Mac Carty, had Embraced me, he Invited me to his Chamber where we Conversed for a Considerable time about the last naval Campaign, the seidge of Gibraltar.
In fine, about 11 and a half he left me alone in his Chamber, which I remember had some resemblance of a stationer’s shop cramed up with old St. Thomas, St. Jerome, St. Basil and the works of all the rest of the holy fathers, some of which lay flat on the floor, whilst others were better respected & treated by being placed on a kind of shelves where they made but a very ordinary figure, having lost their lustre more than a Century past, and their garments now of a rusty hue, that is, what time had not devoured of them. Their Inner parts were not much better being for the most part perforated & Consumed by worms. If I said that I was left alone, I mistook: for I had no less than 10,000 Companions of that kind to divert me during the Gentleman’s abscence, who went to Refectory to divide the soop with his priests & pensioners. I was near half an hour gazing on these beautiful & learned objects which were in far greater need of Cloathing than of mean or drink, before any person Came to Interupt my happiness; at length a nephew to Mr. Mac Carty Came to me and very soon after Mr. Carroll, who appologized the superior’s abscence. In fine the superior returned & appologized for himself, saying that his presence was in some wise necesarly demand’d for the better Order and Decorum of his subjects, that he had even taken the soop with them to shew them example, altho, he was Engaged to Dine in town. ‘Twas by this time 12 o’clock and I thought it time to return to my lodgings where on my arrival I dined very hearty with my Companions and fellow travellers. After I had Dined, Mr. Carroll and Another gentleman named Hargan (who did not think little of his Knowledge in politics and skill as well in the field of Mars as in the plains of Neptune, tho, in fact, he neither knew the one nor the other) came to my lodgings but not thinking proper to enter, I returned with them back to the seminary and passed near an hour in the recreating hall with them and some others in solving questions Concerning the war which these gentlemen proposed me without much Ceremony; altho, they had a moderate share of politeness in some respects, they were deficient in that of hospitality and good nature for not one in the society asked poor Kavenagh was he either dry or hungry. These Gentlemen shewed me their Garden whic is very small. I attempted twice to see their refectory, but they were, I suppose ashamed to let me see it, pretending that it was locked. Lastly, I saw nothing neither in the Irish seminary nor in Toulouse that Could delight or Charm me. The two gentlemen hitherto named Informed me that there was nothing Curious to be seen in this town Except the new wall which is raised by the River’s side and modelled partly like the walls of Cadiz, but floored in brick as ’tis Customary in these parts. It is only a very Indifferent town walk, what you might call a trifle. The Bridge is handsome and strong. I have not been in any of the Churches for their exterior figure did not Invite me. Toulouse is a large town or at least a City not well Deserving the latter name. The houses are built of brick & wood, but the greater part of the latter, the streets are all Irregular and in windings. Were you to walk 12 hours endways on the pavements of this town in the best pair of shoes that England could afford you, your feet would be in a very bad Condition afterwards, as the pavement is all Composed of small sharp pebbles which are besides set so uneven that you would prefer walking a mile in purgatory sooner than One of the streets of Toulouse from end to end. This Town did not please me, and I thought one hour of my time ill spent seeking for Curiosities where none existed; the only Edifice of any worth to be seen here is the Totolium and that same in scarcely Deserving of being spoken of. In Consequence of seeing nothing that could Entice me to remain longer as was my first Design. I took the occasion of benefiting of a boat bound for Bordeaux accompanied by our 2nd Chirurgeon Monsr. Bozqiret who arrived here this day from Toulon. On my return to my Lodgings I settled acct. as follows
Livs. sols
for supper the night of my arrival & porterage .. 3″ 6
for two nights Lodgings & hairdresser …………. 1″16
for Dinner & supped this day ……………………. 3″00
to the servant maid ………………………………… 1″ 4
____
total 9″ 6
====
2 I arose at 5 o’clock, and made all the speed I could to the place of Embarcation for Bordeaux for which passage I paid the sum of 5 livres. At 5 and a half the Boat put off which was carried & went all this day by the help of the Currents. At 8 and a half aft. we Came to a town situated near the river’s side named Agen Capital of a County, where we supped & lay at the best Inn which is without the walls of the town. For the first 8 leagues from Toulouse, the River is both very rapid and Dangerous, full of Rocks, shoals, sands & currents. No one ever saw a more Charming Country than that which is on each side of the Garrone; we left this day behind us a great number of towns Villages and Convents on each hand, all beautiful to be seen, to which I may add the verdure of fine shadey trees, Bowers, flowers, fields & gardens all which make the Country appear a place destined for Deities & not for men. As we passed by the Village or town of Majesterre which is situated on the River’s brink I had a most Delightful prospect of the Residence of the marquis of Clermont which is situated on the submit of a little hill, at the foot of which all around I saw several other houses appearing for a large village which again by their situation make the Dominion of the Lord appear very lively and majestically. At 4 in the aft. we halt’d at a little village on the river’s side where 4 of us eat a snack which
Sols
Cost each ……………………..….. 0″15
this morning for porterage ……….. 0″6
for supper at Agen, servants
and passage provender ……… 3″3
____
total 4″4
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I must render Justice before I proceed further by assuring you, my Dr. friend, that I was right well tretaed at Agen, by a ggod supper, a good bed & politeness. The whole day was excessively warm. As we were Descending the river by the Currents, I saw a great many mills placed on them, which are Curious enough, and in Different places. I saw more than 300 men working on the strands, who raised & carri’d the sand & gravel to the water’s side, where they poured it into troughs which are Lined with a kind of Cloth in such a manner that when they pour buckets of water on the sand, the gold if any, runs like quicksilver through it and sticks to the nap of the lining whilst the sand is washed away by the water poured on’t. These are all poor Labouring men who make a livelyhood by this their Employment. This gold is only fit for guilding, and is Driven into these parts to these poor people from the pirenian Mountains by the frequent floods occasioned there by the perpetual snows and rains.
3 At 5 o’clock I arose and walked into the Town of Agen, as I have already observed, we lay at an Inn withoutside the gates opposite the mall, which is Considerably large & handsome, the town also is Considerably large, Envioroned by a brick wall which is now almost in ruin, the town is antient and in the antient mode as the most of the other Towns of these parts. I went into two Churches which are of no great beauty, there’s nevertheless a very handsome one not as yet finished as to its Interior parts. We put a drift at 6 o’clock, and at 8 and a half we passed by port St. Mary a town situated on the Cleft of a rocky hill over the river on the right. At 10 we arrived where the River Lot discharges itself into the Garrone. The Country here is on all sides both Charming & pleasant; for it appears as the finest of Gardens. Vineyards & corn in abundance: the barren & clefty sides of the rocks, as you might Immagine, or at least every little spot between them help the Industerous Labourer. the trees on each side of the river, their verdure so consumatethis day of the year, the warbling notes of the nightingale and other areal songsters on each bough & branch in the passing groves and bowers, whose melodious chant united in some manner Reechoing on the surface of the waters of this Charming river, made a harmony sufficiently melodious to Ravish and Captivate even the heart of a savage; add to their strains the swelling notes of the nightingale which she poured forth without Interruption and exalted above the rest except in the great heat of the day. To the melody of the areal songsters, I add another not less agreeable, the bleatings of tender Lambs on the extend’d lawns bounding after the Ewes, and the Lowings of the lofty steers. Here, I found the sheperds tending their Innocent flocks (as on the plains beyond Tarascon) and playing to them on harmonious pipes, whilst their watchful dogs surround’d them by Intervals to defend them from the insults of all rapacious enemies….
If my Voyage, or travels are long and Dangerous, I think, my Dr. friend, that I am in some manner Recompenced, at least my senses are, and Can almost envy the happiness of the Inhabitants of these parts. In some places you’ll see high rocks & hills which are all Cultivated in Amphitheatres; on the brows of these again you’ll find towns & villages situated over the River and a great number of others on Lower grounds, affording an admirable Variety…
At 3 aft. it began to rain, and at 4 we arrived at Marinande where we went on shore and Determined to pass the time untill one o’clock next morning, as the patron of the Bark was unwilling to proceed to Langon, before said hour. Monsieur Bozqiret & I went to an Inn in this town known by the name of the Marechal de Mouchy, where we supped & slept only a few hours. Our supper which was very Indifferent was served by a she servant whom I Remember was named Louisset or Louisa, a very simple slut, and who I believe would prostitute herself for half a groat. Before I supped, I visited two Churches in this town which I found very Different from them in Cadiz appearing vastly better withoutside than within. I saw nothing else in this town worth notice. We went to bed at 10 o’clock….
4 At 1 o’clock this morning, I was awakened by the Cry of the saillors in the streets. I arose said time, and prepared myself with speed and went on board the bark. At 2 o’clock we set a Drift, and at 5 we passed by a Village named Reole situated over the river, near to which is one of the finest Convents of Benedictin fryars I ever yet seen. At 9 o’clock we arrived at Langon a large village on the left. Here we made a stay of 20 minutes to refresh ourselves. The Tide Comes up to this village and not much farther. We had all this day a view of one of the most Charming Countries on the Globe, of fine Country seats in the midst of vineyards, of fine ranks of Trees planted with uncommon skill & science, the land on the Right all in little heights & valleys fertile in Delicious wine.
Nothing sure, Can equal the happiness of the Inhabitants if they only knew and were sensible that a great deal consists in the possession of such a Country! We left an Innumerable Quantity of Towns & Villages behind us this day on the Rivers Sides. At 11 and a half the wind being favourable we put up a sail by means of which we fly fromthe sight of these delightful objects with regret. They seem to run from my sight to mortify my Pleasure & Curiosity. In fine, at 4 and a half we arrived in Bordeaux, where Monsr. Bozqiret and I set up at the Inn named “Hotel de Nantes”, here after I had eaten a snack, I went to walk and found that this renowned City answered pretty well to all the Encomiums I have heard lavishly passed on its Beauty & Commerce. Among the many beauties of which may be found here, behold the Chief … the Royal walk which is both long and broad Containing several ranks of fine trees is very beautiful. The new play-house a most beautiful and vast edifice and perhaps the first of its kind for beauty & elegance this day on Earth. The Cathedral Church which is in like manner both beautiful and vast, near to which may be seen the Bishop’s palace lately built by his Grace the prest. Archbishop, which is an ornament to the City. Here again may be seen, an old Castle and the yard situated near the River, which Covers a great space of Ground and seems neglected. The french Call it Chateauy Trompet. The Burse is reckened In the number of the Curiosities of this Town, In fact ’tis beautiful; this is a place where the negotients & merchants assemble and treat about their affairs as if at the royal Exchange. Before the Burse is a place in the form of a Cressent where may be seen a vast edifice all built in great uniformity, over against which is an Equestrian statue of Louis the XV supported on a throne of marble envioroned all around by Iron Banesters. The Center of the Town is Indifferent but the outlets are beautiful, and in particular fronting the River. The streets in general are Crooked and very badly paved, the town is very long from one extreme to the other, and in no wise Compact. In fine the Chartrues, the play house, the Cathedral, Bishop’s palace, the Bourse or exchange, the Equestrian statue are the only things of note I have as yet seen. There’s no quay here, the place for loading & unloading is full of nasty mud which renders it very Disagreeable to load & unload the ships, besides ’tis a Disadvantage bery Considerable to the merchants yearly. This Town is about the actual size of Nantes, perhaps a little larger but in my oppinion not so pleasant. I supped at 9 and went to be at 10…
5 I went this morning to the Irish Seminary in which I found and in the Hospital 6 priests from the Co. of Wexford, by whom I was Informed of the Death of my younger Brother, but they were Ignorant of the Certain time of his Death. An afflicting news to a man on a long Journey! I spent the most part of this day Conversing with some of them and walking to & fro in town.
6 I expected last night to leave Bordeaux this morning, but my Laundres not keeping up to her word in regard of having my linnen Ready, I missed thereby a very favourable opportunity of descending the River to Royaun. I Dined with Mr. Clench, Mr. Owen Morgan, Mr. Redmond & with Mr. Day, chez madame Descombes pres de la porte des Capuchins Rue Somenude. In the aft. I went to the Irish seminary where I was Introduced to Mr. O’Brien prefect of the house native of Dublin, who treated me with every Immaginable pollitness, and in a word all the other Gentlemen, who not like the Boors of Toulouse offered me both meat & drink which they presented me in abundance, of which I took a small share to gratify their bounty & goodness more than to appaise my hunger & thirst. I lay this night with Mr. Redmond in Mr. Clench’s Room…
7 Having arose early this morning, I went to the water’s side where I found no boat destined for my Convenience which occasioned my remaining 24 hour longer in this City than I Desired, which I employed for the most part viewing some things which I had not as yet well observed, in particular the burse or Exchange which is in fact very Difficult to be found out by strangers unless by meer Chance or Information, as it lies backwards and only two small & Common Doors of no great Consequence to enter thereby. The Church of the Chartreuse is very handsome and their Cloysters nothing less. I took my leave this Evening of all my fellow travellers, one of whom gave me his address, thus: “a monsieur de Bozquet, chez madame Despres a L’escallier Noeuf a Brest.
At half past 10 I went to bed after paying my hostess a considerable sum, I might say, for nothing except for my bed….
8 I arose at 6 and at 11 I went on board a smal lBark bound for Royaun. We put off Immediately having the tide in our favour, but the wind was Contrary. By the force of veering we shifted two league’s only on teh tide before we lost it, which obleidged us to come to an anchor on the water’s side where we remained ’till 11 at night on Board this miserable Bark, on our Coming to anchor the most of us passengers went on shore and Coming to a little Cottage we brought some stores for the passage. The day and the night were very cold for the season….
9 Having as I have already observed, set sail at 11 last night, we Came to an anchor at 5 this morning opposite Blay where we waited the reflux of the Tide. I found the Country here on each side of the river Delightful. I slept last night on the bare linings of our Bark which has no other Balast but ourselves and ’tis to be feared she’ll overset for want of better. If fleas be ballast, I assure you that we are in no need of any other matter. The morning has been very Cold and it froze a little the last night. We did not proceed far from Blay this day on acct. of foul wind…
10 At 12 last night we weighed anchor & set adrift on the tide. About 1 in the morning, the wind became a little fair by which means we arriv’d at Royaun, at 6 o’clock, which is a small town situated at the Entrance of the Garronne. Here I went on shore, not I may say without Company, having brought against my will some regiments of fleas from the Bark. I first paid 24 sols for my passage from Bordeaux hither; having sent my portmanteau to Rochefort by the messengers post, I Breckfast’d very well in this town with some fellow travellers very hearty for which I paid 10 sols, after which I set out on foot for Rochefort at 8 o’clock with three others, and having passed through two small towns in which we refreshed ourselves, we at length arrived at Rochefort at 6 in the aftn. and set up at the Basha Inn held by Cadey where we had a very bad supper for ’twas Saturday night. I eat a morsel of Rea which was as dry and hard as a Chip of old oak, adn some eggs fryed up in a pan and a very small quantity of sallad. I remember that a gentleman of the Company took a spoon and led off the Remains of the Rea dish and poured it on some small dry & Burnt pastry Cakes which no one before nor after Could make use of. We were 12 hungry men going to table, adn we remained 12 hungry men raising from it. There were in this Inn three servant maids, who gave themselves the name of Marys, the most Impertinent sluts in Europe, and ’tis to be wished that Impertinence alone was their Dominant Imperfection. At 9 it began to rain & we went to bed near half past 10…..
11 Having arose at 5 I went to the Capuchin’s Church in this town In a short time after where I was obleidged to remain untill 7 o’clock before I heard mass, after which, I sent my portmanteau by a Maggoneer to Rochehelle where I arrived myself on foot with my fellow travellers at 3 in the aft. Here we put up at the Golden Cross, where I was Informed by the host that the Rev’d John Coney from the Co. of Wexford was in this town, and went after I had Dined to Enquire for him, where I was Informed he resided but to my great surprise, the Commander parish priest of St. Jean or of St. John’s in this town, Informed me that he had received the night before an account of his Death in a letter from the Isle of Ray, and that he was no more, being then only 6 days absent. For better Information, I went directly to the great seminary, where the news I had just heard was again confirmed, tho’ not by the superior whom I did not see as he was then absent, and promised to return there the next morning to be Informed of the whole by that gentleman. I was not as yet satisfyed with my Evening’s news so returned to the Golden Cross about 8 o’clock and went to rest soon after…
12 I went this morning at 8 o’clock to the great seminary to alloy my Doubts; on my arrival there, I sson found access to speak with the Superior who gave me the following relation of Mr. Coney’s Death. “About 7 days ago, said he, Mr. Coney went to visit his countryman Mr. Magher priest in the Isle of Ray, and on his arrival there he got a hot fever of which he died soon after, as Mr. Magher who was present at his Death specifyed in a letter to the Commander of St. Jean in this town”. This Gentleman superior, I suppose, Immagined that my greater business with him was to Crave something of him, as I enquired so close after him yesterday in the aft: if so, he was in that mistaken; I know not by what means he put 24 sols in my hand whic I accepted before I knew his design; I was realy both confused and ashamed for a moment upon reflection, I assured him that I did not approach him with a design of that nature and prayed to be excused, tendering him back his money which he earnestly requested me to accept, refusing to take it, in fine I put it in my pocket in which there was at this time a vacancy for 300 times that sum, and having thanked him for his bounty I took my leave with a modest bow and returned directly to the golden Cross where I arrainged my portmanteau and went with it to the messengers office with a Direction for Nantes. My fellow travellers parted at 5 this morning for Nantes. In fine having paid of acct. at teh Golden Cross, I set out on foot for Rochelle alone at half past 9 and arrived at Aligre at 1 o’clock where I dined very well. From thence I walked to morielle where I supped and lay. The day was very warm; it froze here some nights ago, which occasioned a very considerable damage to the Vineyards.
13 I dined this day at Chantonay, from whence, I rode to St. Fulgent where I supped and lay and was very well treated. The whole day was exceedingly warm…
14 I arrived this morning at montaigu about 9 o’clock on foot, and made a kind of Breckfast in the head Tavern of this town, from hence I walked to Aigrefeuille where I had but a very ordinary Dinner for which I paid 3 livres, from hence I went to the Castle of Montbert a Country seat belonging to Count de Menou to see, his Chaplain the Rev’d Mr. Sommers with whom I spent the rest of the Evening & night…..
15 Mr. Sommers accompanied me after breckfast to Nantes, which was 3 leagues from Montbert, on our way tither he lost a pocket Book of Considerable worth, in which besides were some papers of great Consequence. We had not gone a mile before he lost it, tho, he did not miss it untill we were after taking up our lodgings near the little Carmelites in Nantes; upon which we both returned back half the way to montbert seeking for the pocket book, but in vain; in fine, giving it over for being for ever lost, we returned back to Nantes, being dry, hungry and fataigued, we went to the Counsel Chamber where we Dined & Refreshed ourselves very well after our walk; we were not very long here before some Gentlemen from the Community came to see us having given them notice of our arrival in town.
16 I pass’d this day in repose and in Company with several Wexfordians, some of whom were bound for Ireland as there was a ship then in the river bound for Waterford; e’er I parted with them I promised to be of their party, in case I would be back from Brest before the ship’s Departure; for my affairs Called me absolutely there.
17 I left Nantes at 6 this morning and set off for Brest on foot, having walked to temple, I took horse there and rode from thence to Rochebernard where I crossed the River Viullaine and walked to Muziliac where I lay at the horse post and was here politely treated…
18 It Being Sunday, I heard mass in a small nunnery in this town, and after I had Breckfasted I took horse & rode to Vannes, where I arrived at 11 o’clock and set up at the Golden Lion. I did not Remain long in the Inn before I went to visit the Countess of Seriac, Daughter to teh Marquis of Lambilly, whom I was inform’d was brought to be of a Daughter about 15 days before; this Lady gave me Information of her father & family being then at Rennes, and on my return to the Golden lion in waiting for Dinner, I penn’d a letter for Miss Mary Victoire her sister, which I posted in this town, Informing the family of my safe return into Britany and now on my way to Brest. Having dined at the golden Lion I took horse for Auray, and from Auray again to Hennebond, where I arrived near 8 o’clock and set up at the golden Lion, where I was very ill treated tho, paid very Dear. I wish that none of my friends shall ever visit the golden Lion at Hennebond after the ill usage I met with there Husband, Mistress & maid three Devils & Robbers….
19 I walked this morning from Hennebond to Quimperlay, and from thence I rode to Roxporden where I dined, from thence I walked to quimper Corentin where I set up at an Inn opposite the Cathedral in which place I received the best usage, all Immaginable politeness and only a very moderate charge for my bed & supper. I’m very sorry that I’ve forgotten the name of the Inn, as I have been so well used, they gave me for supper, good meat, good wine accompanied with politeness and respect….
20 I left quimpercorentin near 6 o’clock, and having walked to a small village I breckfasted on bread, butter, eggs & a pint of wine, from thence I walked to another larger village where I took horse and rode to Longeveau where I arrived at 11 o’clock and made an ordinary Dinner for which I paid very dear. At 12 I embarked on board a passage boat for Brest. The wind was very close, but the Tide being mounting, we by that means arrived in brest at 4 in the aft. On my arrival at father Mehegan’s Lodge I found him absent and a very respectful aged Clergiman in his Chair whose name is Roger Moresey from Youghall in the Co. of Cork. This Gentleman has been in all parts & nations on the Globe; he gave me some Information of where Mr. Mac Cabe lodged and after some serche I found him out, who procur’d me Lodgings in the same street Chez mademoiselle Julienne.
21 This morning I saw Miss Jenny Taffe with whom father John left his Keys as he was going to St. Pol de Leon. This young Lady absolutely Refused giving me my money and some other effects, with father John’s permission, which, I had some time before I put to sea Consigned to his Care: I was obleidged in Consequence to write a letter to father John to authorite her to give me my money and effects, which he did accordingly; but his answer did not arrive in time for my speedy return to Nantes where I intend’d to Embark for Ireland with some of my Cotempories. I employed the rest of the day In the marine offices taking up my appointments…
22 I found my Dog Prince in the main street this morning, which I left to the Care of Miss Taffe as I was going to sea, who in my absence made a present of him to a Brigadeer in Brest. I brought him to my Lodgings where I secured him and gave him to eat & drink. From this day untill the 30 I remained in Brest doing nothing but spending my money on account of Miss Jenny Taffe’s treatment with respect to my money and effects…..
30 Having arrainged all my affairs in Brest, I parted at 6 this morning for St. Pol’s de Leon on foot; arriving there at 6 in the aft. I put up at la grande maison, where I was Informed that father John had part’d the day before for Roscoffe. I supped here with the Treasurer of the Cathedral of St. Pol’s and several young Ladies….
31 About 6 this morning I left St. Pol’s and went from thence to Roscoffe where I found my Dr. father John Celebrating mass in the parish Church of this town, who after his Coming forth from the Church Embraced me tenderly and Conducted me to Mr. Clansey’s house whom I had not the pleasure of seeing. I only saw his Lady and Children who treated me with respect & politeness, prayed me to Dine with them, but I being intent on my voyage back to Nantes, I thanked madam Clansey and took my leave after I had refreshed myself with a glass of Excellent wine, father John, who brought my whip with him to St. Pol’s left it there at a Community of his order, and gave me a billet for pere Bazile with orders to give me my whip on my return to St. Pol’s. Having taken my leave of my Dear father John, I return’d back to St. Pol’s where I got my whip from pere Bazile, and paid my Hostess what she Demand’d. I set off Immediately on foot for Morlaix having only my Dog for Company and arrived there at 5 in the aft. where I set up at the sign of the white hen where I was genteely used. As I arrived here pretty early, so I had the more leasure to view the Town. Morlaix is Considerably large situated on each side of a very small rivulet on the brows of two steep hills. The Town is ancient, and no great explanation is required to paint Its beauties, the Chief of which is a little port by the help of an Arm of the sea. The Tide Comes up to the Town being about a league from the Ocean. As I was walking here, I met some french acquaintances who Informed me that there was an English officer in Town, upon this Information I found him out and Conversed with him for the space of an hour. I think his name was Pierceson; he was Captain of a Cartel, and Came here to bring home the English prisoners & sick who were still in the prisons & hospitals of the different towns of Brittony.
JUNE 1783
1 It Being the sabbath day I heard mass at 6 o’clock, and near 7 I left Morlaix and walked to a small village named le poutou where I refresh’d myself and hired a horse to carry me to Belle Isle en terre, where I arrived about 12 and a half on one of the most stubbron Garrons I ever Crossed. Here I made but a very ordinary Dinner for which I paid 30 sols from hence I walked to Guingamp where I arrived at 6 in the aft. and set up a la grande maison. I was here Informed after supper that there was an Irish Brewer in town, upon which I went to see him and having found out his Dwelling and himself, he made me Drink plentiful Cups of his Beer, after which he Conducted me to my Lodgings where I lay this night…
2 Having arose early this morning I went according to my promise to see the Irish Brewer Mr. Sulleban for that is his name, for whom I said mass in the Church of St. Sauveur, after which I breckfast’d at his house, adn Can assure you, my Dear friend, that he treated me beyond measure if there be limits ot Goodness, and his wife also, tho a french woman, nothing less. ‘Twas in him that I discovered and saw the heart of what is called, a true born Irishman, which I shall not forget. After I had taken my leave of his wife, he Conducted me to where I took horse, so parting with him, and leaving the Town of Guingamp at 10. I arrived at St. Brieux at 1 o’clock where I dined at the sign of the N. Having well Dined, I left this town, which is Considerably large and somewhat handsome, at half past 2 and walked about 1 and a half league to a place where I by Chance took horse for Lamballe where I arrived near 5 o’clock. Here I made no great delay, except seeking for a horse, but could find none for the ordinary hire which made me take to the road again on foot, and arriving at Langouedre a place of no great distinction, I thought it proper to remain there that night, and in Consequence supped & lay at the post.
3 I parted from this place early this morning on foot, and breckfasted at a village named Broon, so Continuing my Journey I arrived at Montauban at 1 o’clock, where I dined; after which I set out again in Company with a serjeant from Champagne who gave me a pure heating for the space of 5 leagues, but before we arrived at Rennes I led him as he did before with me, and made him cry out for quarters. On our arrival in Rennes which was near 8 o’clock, we set up at the white Lamb or the Mutton blanc chez Serriere my old acquaintance whom I knew formerly at Lambilly…..
4 I went this morning after Breckfast to the Hotel de Lambilly in Dauphin Street; but that Respectful family being for some days at Bourbonsay the Country seal of Monsieur Darmaille Brother to the Marchioness of Lambilly, I had not the pleasure of seeing them. After supper I received advice from Monsieur the Marquis of Lambilly to go see him, for he was just return’d from the Country, upon which, I went without delay and payed him my humblest respects, to his lady also, and to Miss Victoire who were all Rejoiced in seeing me. Having spent a full hour with them, I returned to my Lodgings…..
5 I spent the most part of this Day at the hotel de Lambilly, at 6 in the aft. I took leave of the family and returned to the while Lamb where I settled accts. and paid charge made against me before I went to bed. You’ll observe here, that on the 3rd at supper chex serriere there arriv’d an american from the Province of Pensilvania, I think, whose name is Salvadore and a young man his nephew with whom I supped and with several others in Company. On the 4th he parted for Nantes where he Expected to Embark for America. After Dinner his servants arrived from St. Malo’s at the same Inn, by whom I was Employed a part of the aft. in the messenger’s office in quallity of Interpreter for their trunks & effects.
6 At 4 this morning I left Rennes and parted for Nantes, arriving at Bout de Bois in the Evening, I set up at the post, having rode but 7 leagues this day. I was pretty well treated in this place & had a good bed.
7 At 7 this morning I set out again on foot and arrived at Chambre des Comptes in Nantes at half past 12. I lay this night at the end of the Bridge of Nantes at the white horse, or at the Cheval Blanc.
8 I set out for Loureaux to see Mr. Tady Murphy, surnamed white murphy priest of the Diocese of Tuam, who lives Chez Madame la Prefidentia de Ballet sa terre de Bonniere. On my way hither about a mile from Loureaux I heard mass at a village for ’twas the day of Penticost, and Dined at said place. At 2 o’clock, I arrived at Loureaux where I found Mr. Murphy who conduct’d me to his Madame’s house where I lay said night, and was treated like a Lord by that venerable old Lady….
9 I heard mass this morning in the Chappel belonging to my Lady, after which I took a hearty Breckfast. At 9 and a half I took leave of my Lady and her Chaplain Mr. Murphy and returned to Nantes, and waited at the E. end of the Bridge, the arrival of some Irish gentlemen returning from the Country, where they were saying their masses; having made a slight repast here, these gentlemen soon arrived who accompanied me into town to Bishop Street, where I lay that night Chez madame N.
10 About 6 this morning I parted from Nantes bound to Angiers the Capital of the province of Anjou. Arriving on foot at 12 at a town named Oudon I dined at the principal Inn which is situated on the Loire’s side. From thence I went to Ancenis & Varade where I lay, and supped at a poor Tavern in Company with a man who had (as he told me) lain in one bed with his housekeeper….
11 I parted from Varade early this morning and having refreshed myself at a village on the way, I passed by St. George, and the Country seat of Count Walsh named Serain which is beautiful and Contigious to the former place; I came to an auberge on the road side within two small leagues of Angiers where I dined. At 3 o’clock, I arrived in Angiers & set up at the sign of the Bear where I was well used and politely treated by the big bellyed Lanlady, where on my arrival I penned a few lines for the Rev’d Mr. Doyle student in this Town who on receipt thereof Immediately came to see me. After having Embraced each other, he conducted me to his Lodgings, where he Introduced me to his Companions Messrs. Murphy & Garvey, and in a short time afterwards to all the Irish priests in this town. About 8 o’clock I returned to the bear where I supped & lay…
12 The Gentlemen lastly named were pleased to admit me this day to their Pension Chez Madame Dupre sworn and approved finger singth of this Capital living in the street vulgarly named Chappromiere, with whom I remained in social society for the term of 28 days. During this Interval, I went to the Country on the 21st to say mass in Mr. Murphy’s place (for he was a little Indisposed) Chez Monsieur Du Puit a son Chateau du Lepinay pres St. George sur Loire. Here I lay 3 nights successively and pass’d the time very agreeably. I went on my own acct. to an other place near the side of the River Maine about the distance of two leagues from Angers named Voylliard, which is but an ordinary place for an Irish hero; the Gentleman, who is stone blind, gave me the best reception I believe that was in his power, but I could not relish to remain long serving him, in Consequence, I made him pay me half a guinea for two visits, and bad him adieu, but was not very well pleased with myself for having made a second visit, and think that I was not fully Recompenced for having gone to such an old regard…
It may be not amiss to observe here, my Dr. friend, that there’s a Gentleman in this Capital from teh Diocess of Cloyne who is sacristain in the Cathedral church, named Drady, whom I had the honour of greeting the day of my arrival here, and sometimes after during my sojourning in Angers. He having dined in town about the 4th of July was asked if he could Recommend a Chaplain, he knowing that I had neither place nor pension was kind enough to provide for me and engaged me to go live with a good family. I may hereafter have occasion to speak more at large on this Gentleman’s Character and Goodness…..
You may be surprised, my Dr. friend, that I did not give you an account of how I passed my time on Board, hitherto, let it suffice to have it at prest. which was in the following manner, Vizt…
You must observe, that there are several esential Duties demanded of his Majesty’s Chaplains on board to wit, of Celebrating mass on Sundays & holy days if the time permits, to Confess such as present themselves; administer the sacraments to the sick and spiritual succour by exhortation. Of giving morning & Evening prayers which are always sund, of giving Vespers (about 3 or 4 o’clock) each Sunday & holy day in the aft. and of Catechising the swabbers at least once a week…..
I gave the morning prayers each week day about 7 o’clock, after which I visited the sick. Breckfast’d generally about 8 o’clock. Dined at 12 and from 1 untill 2 o’clock each day, I spent Catechising the swabbers which were 64 in number. At 5 in the aft. I gave the Evening prayers and supped at 7 and a half after which I sung the Littanies each night at sea with out exception, as you’ll find hereafter. The rest of my time was taken up in visiting the sick which was generally 6 times each day as we had great numbers sick on board, and reading my office, if any time was spared, I employ’d it reading morallity, sometimes I play’d a game of Cards…
Each morning & Evening the Chaplain is advertized to give prayers by one of the pilots. The Chaplain comes on deck demands of the officer of the watch permission to give them who grants it and orders the master of the Equipage to whistle who again orders to ring the bell for prayers. A great silence ensues the priest kneels on a bench or chest which is before Mizen mast and sings the following prayers for the Equipage…
______________________________________________________________
Morning prayers for each day of the week …..
having said a pater noster & and ave maria in a low voice, he Intones the following hymn……
______________________________________________________________
Veni Creator Spiritus, Hostem repellas longuis,
mentes tuorum visita, pacemque dones protinus:
Imple superna gratia, ductore sic provio,
quee tu Creasti pectora. vitemus omne noxium….
Qui paracletus diceris, Per te sciamus da patrem,
donum Dei altissimi, noscamus atque filium:
fons vivus, ignis, charitas, te utriusque spiritum
et spiritalis unctio. Credamus omni tempore…
Tu Septiformis muncre, Gloria patri Domino,
destro Dei tu digitus; natoquee qui a mortuis
tu rite pomissum patris surrexit a paraelito
sermone ditans gutturd. In saeculorinn saecula. Amen..
Accende Lumen sensibus, V/ Emitte spiritum tuum & Creabuntur
In funde amorem Cordibus, R/ et Prenovabis faciem terree..
Infirnia nostri Corporis,
Virtute firmans perpeti.
Oremus…
Deus, qui Corda fidelium sancti spiritus Illustratione docuisti: da nobis in eadem spiritu recta sapere, et de ejus semper Consolatione gaudere. Per Chiristum Dominum Nostrum. amen.
…….and after…….
V/ Domine salvum fac Regem nostrum Ludovicum N.B. look in
R/ et exaudi nos in Die qua invocaverimus te. the next page
for the manner
of praying for
the King.
Oremus…
Queesumus, omnipotens Deus, ut famulus tuus Ludovicus Rex noster, qui tua miseratione suscepit regni gubernacula, Virtutum etiam omnium percipiat Incrementa: quibus decenter ornatus, et vitiorum monstra devitare, hostes superare; et ad te qui via, veritas et vita es gratiosus valeat pervenire….
Per Christ…
Angelus Domini nuntiavit marue {
et Concepit de Spiritu sancto….. {Ave Maria….
Ecce Ancilla Domini……….……. {
fiat mihi secundum verbum tuum {Ave Maria….
Et verbum Caro factum est….….. {
et habitabit in nobis……..………. {Ave Maria….
X/ Ova pro nobis sancta Dei Genetrix
R/ ut dignt Efficiamur promissionibut Christi
Oremus….
Gratiam tuam queesumus Domine mentibus nostris infunde, ut qui angelo nuntiante, Christe filii tui Incarnationem cognovimus, per passionem ejus & Crucem ad resurrectionis gloriam perducamur.
Per Christum Dom.
______________________________________________________________
Evening Prayers
Sung on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wenesdays.
Pater noster, and ave maria, as before..
After which the Chaplain Intones one of the Antiphons of the Bless’d Virgin Corrosponding to the time, as in the Brevary; for Example…..
Regina Caeli laetare, alleluia, | N.B. The Versicle,
quia quem meruisti portare, alleluia. | Domine Salvum
Resurrexit sicut dixit, alleluia. | Regem is sung in
Ora pro nobis Deum, alleluia. | morning prayers
| after the manner
V/ Gaude et Laetare Virgo Maria, alleluia. | here given, which
R/ Quia surrexit Dominus Vere, alleluia. | I forgot to Insert
| in its proper
| place in full.
Oremus..
Deus, qui per Resurrectionem filii tui Domini nostri Jesu Christi Mundum laetificare Dignatus es: praesta quaesumus; ut per ejus
Genetricis virginem mariam, perpetuae Capiamus gaudia vitae.
Per Eundem Christum Dominum Nostrum. Amen….
after which he sings the following versicle & Responsory thus.
Domine salvum fac Regem, et exaudi nos in die qua Invocaverimuste. Domine salvum fac Regem et exaudi nos in die qua Invocaverimus te:
Gloria patri & filio & spiritui sancto. Sicut erat in principio…
X/ Domine Salvum fac Regem Nostrum Ludovicum.
R/ et exaudi nos in Die qua Invocaverimus te.
Oremus.
Queesumus, omnipotens Deus… as before, after which the Angelus.
Domine, as already in morning prayers.
Evening Prayers on Thursday.
Pater Noster, and ave maria…
Pange lingua gloriosi | Verbum caro, panem verum
Corporis mysterium, | Verbum Carnem efficit;
Sanguinisque praetiosi | fit qui sanguis Christi merum,
quem in mundi pretium | et si sensus deficit,
fructus ventris generosi, | ad firmandum cor sincerum
Rex effudit Gentium. | sola fides sufficit…..
Nobis datus, nobis natus | Tantum ergo sacramentum
ex Intacta Virgine, | Veneremur Cernui;
et in mundo Conversatus, | et Antiquum Documentum,
sparso verbi semine; | novo cedat ritui:
Sui moras Incolatus | praestet fides suplementum
miro clausit ordine… | Sensuum defectui….
In supremae nocte Caenae | Genitori, Genitoque
Recumbens cum fratribus, | Laus et Jubilatio,
Observata lege plene | Salus, honor, virtus quoque
Cibis in legalibus, | Sit et benedictio,
Cibium turbae duodenae | procedenti ab utroque
se dat suis manibus. | Compar sit laudatio. Amen.
V/ Panem de Caelo praestitiste eis.
R/ Omne Delectamentum in se habentem…..
V/ Dominus Vobixcum……
R/ et Cum Spiritu tuo….
Oremus..
Deus, qui nobis sub sacromento mirabili, passionis tuae memoriam religuisti, tribue quaesumus, ita nos Corporis & Sanguinis tui sacra mysteria Venerari; ut redemptionis tuae fructum in nobis jugiter sentiamus, qui Vivis….
Immediately after: Domine salvum.. & the Angelus Domini Domini, as before…..
______________________________________________________________
Evening Prayers on Friday ..
after Pater & ave sing the following hymn….
Vexilla regis prodeunt, | electa digno slipite
fulget crucis mysterium, | tam sancta membra tangere…
quo carne carnis conditor | Beata cujus Brachus,
suspensus est patibulo… | Saecli pependit pretium,
Quo vulneratus insuper | Statera facta Corporis,
microne diro lanceae | praedamque tulit tartari…
ut nos Lavaret crimine, | o Crux ave, spes unica,
Manavil unda & sanguine… | hoe passionis (vel paschali) Impleta sunt quae
Concinit | tempore
David fideli Carmine | Auge pus Institiam,
dicens: in nationibus | Reisque dona Veniam….
Regnavil a ligno Deus | Te summa Deus trinitas,
Arbor decora & fulgida | Collaudet omnis spiritus:
Ornata regis purpura | quos per Crucis mysterium
| Salvas, rege per saecula. Amen.
V/ Eripe me Domine ab homine malo,
R/ a Viro iniquo eripe me….
Oremus…
Quaesumus Omnipotens Deus, familiam tuam propitious respice: ut te largiente, regatur in Corpore; et te Servante; Custodiatur in mente. Per Dom. Nostm. …
after which sing, Domine salvum fac Regem; and the Angelus Domini,
with their Orations as I have before remarked….
Evening Prayers on Saturday.
Pater and ave…
Ave maris stella, | qui pro nobis natus,
Dei mater alms, | lulit esse tuus….
Atque semper virgo, | Virgo singularis,
felix caeli porta…. | inter omnes mitis,
sumens illud ave, | nos culpis solutos,
gabrielis ore | mites fac & castos….
funda nos in pace, | Vitam praesta puram,
mutans Hevae momen | iter para tutum,
solve vincla reis, | ut videntes Jesum,
profer lumen caecis | Semper Collectemur..
mala nostra pelle, | Sit laus Deo patri,
bona Cuncta posse. | Summo Christo decus,
monstra te esse matrem | spiritui sancto,
Sumat per te preces | tribus honor unus. Amen.
X/ Diffusa est gratia in Labus tuis
R/ Propterea benedixit te Deus in aeternum….
Oremus..
Concede nos famulos tuos, quaesumus Domine Deus, perpetua mentis et Corporis sanitate gaudere; et gloriosa beatae mariae semper virginis Intercessione. A prosenti liberari tristitia, et aeterna perfrui laetitia.
Per Christum …
Domine Salvum fac regem.. as before…. and
Angelus Domine… with their orations…..
______________________________________________________________
On Sundays & Holy Days, on Mass…
After the Capn. has given you notice for the hour of mass; he orders a Drummer to beat a rat-tat-to three different times, leaving an Interval of two minutes or more between each. In fine the bell is rung, and a red flag or streamer is hoised to the end of the Cross jack yard to announce to the ships of Convoy and other ships that have no Chaplains, that mass is ready to Commence on board, thereby to unite their Intentions to the sacrafice…the Chaplain is not vested and ready to Commence. A Drummer and two Centinels with their Musquets & bayonets to them Come before the altar & stand on each side of the Celebrant when he begins mass and remain in the same place & posture to the end. The Drummer announces the Commencement of Mass. The time of Elevation by a Rat tow. At which time the flag or streamer is lowered & rais’d three times by one of the pilots to announce to the Convoy & other ships the moment of Elevation.. The Chaplain having formed his Intention turns and kneels before the alter and Intones the Hymn “Veni Creator Spiritus”, for the assistants, who sing it to the end. The priest raises himself Immediately and having made the sign of the Cross in the usual manner begins mass which he continues in a low voice untill he ends the Gosple, after which he Intones the Credo for the assistants, who Continue to sing it to the end. At the Elevation some of them sing Canticles and at the Consummation, they sing, “Domine salvum fac regem”, with a gloria patri in the End, as above marked. When the Celebrant has end’d the last Gosple, he goes to the middle of the alter and says in a loud voice…the following X/X/ X/X/
V/ Emitte Spiritum tuum & Creabuntur
R/ et Renovabis faciem terrae
V/ Domine salvum fac Regem nostrum Ludovicum
R/ et Exaudi nos in die qua Invocaversmus te
Oremus
Quaesumus omnipotens Deus, ut famulus tuus Ludovicus rex noster.
as in page.
Immediately after he says,
Angelus Domini nuntiavit mariae as before which the Drummer announces by three loud blows each turn, and after the oration is said, he beats a retreat. The Capn. says in aloud voice, as soon as all is over, “vive le Roi”. that is, May the King live, and all the rest of the Equipage after him and so retire untill Dinner.
Vespers..
The Chaplain Comes to the Common place of prayer on Deck having a surplus, stole and Cap. kneels and says a pater & ave after which in the ordinary manner he makes the sign of the Cross and says in a loud voice: Deus in adjutorium meum Intende and proceeds as the office of the day requires..which being said and the Commemorations, he Immediately sings: Domine salvum fac regem, as in page. Then the oration for the King. After which the Angelus Domine, as before, and the oration. “Gratiam tuam quaesumus Domine”…which being said; the Equipage Cry out:
“Vive le Roi”…as after mass, and all other prayers…
The Litany of the B.V. sung each night at sea…
Kyrie eleison | Sedes Sapientiae
Christe eleison | Causa nostrae letitiae
Kyrie eleison | Vas spirituale
Christe audi nos | Vas honorabile
Christe exaudi nos | Vas insignae devotionis
Pater de caelis Deus… | Rosa mystica
filii redemptor mundi Deus{ | Turris Davidica
Spiritus Sancte Deus { miserere | Turris eburnea
Sancta trinitas unus Deus { nobis | Domus aurea
Sancta Maria | faderis arca { ora
Sancta Dei genetrix | Janua Caeli { pro
Sancta Virgo Virginum | Stella matutina { nobis
Mater Christi | salus infirmorum
Mater divinae gratiae | Refugium peccatorum
Mater purissima | Consolatrix afflictorum
Mater castissima | Auxilium Christianorum
Mater Inviolata | Regina Angelorum
Mater Intemerata | Regina patriarcharum
Mater amabilis { Ora | Regina prophetarum
Mater admirabilis { pro | Regina apostolorum
Mater Creatoris { nobis | Regina martyrum
Mater salvatoris | Regina Confessorum
Virgo prudentissima | Regina Virginum
Virgo Vencranda | Regina Sanctorum omnium
Virgo predicanda | Regina Sacratissimi Rosarii
Virgo potens | Regina portus salutis
Virgo Clemens | navigantium
Virgo fidelis | Advocata nostra
Speculum justitiae | Mater Dei
| Stella maris
________________________________________________________
X/ Agnus Dei qui tollis peccata mundi. R/ Parce nobis Domine
X/ Agnus Dei ……………………. R/ Exaudi nos Domine
X/ Agnus Dei ……………………. R/ Miserere nobis
X/ Christe audi nos
R/ Christe exaudi nos
X/ Ora pro nobis sancta Dei Genetrix
R/ Ut Digni efficiamur promisionibus Christi
Oremus….
Gratium tuam quaesumus Domine, mentibus nostris infunde;
ut qui, angelo nuntiante, Christi filii tui Incarnationem Cognovimus, per passionem ejus et Crucem ad resurrectionis gloriam perducamur. Per eundem Christ. Dom. Nostm. Amen…
Immediate after the Chaplain Intones & sings the following Antiphon…….
Ant. Sub tuum praesidium Confugimus sancta Dei Genetrix, nostras Deprecationes ne despicias in necessitatibus, sed a periculis Cunctis libera nos semper Virgo gloriosa & benedicta…..
After which being sung, the Chaplain says in a loud voice, for the Capn., the Major state and the Equipage pater, and ave.
After which, if he pleases, for the sick on board: pater & ave.
Lastly, the Psalm. Deprofundis Clamavi … which being end’d, the Equipage Cry out in a loud voice “Vive le Roi, as they are accostomed at the end of Mass & all other prayers and general & particular actions…..
_______________________________________________________________
Interments…
When a person dies on board, the Chaplain advertises the Lieut. of the first order or Lieut. of the marines, which the french name “Lieutenant en pie”. This officer orders the interment to be made at such an hour. He’s no sooner dead than the master sailmaker is advertised to give a piece of old sail cloth to cover the dead, which is the duty of the under sailmaker who sews it about the corpse. The Master cannoneer is advertised also to give a Bullet, which is sewed up at the feet of the dead in the winding sheet or last shirt. In fine the hour of interment is arrived. The Chaplain goes on deck and gives notice to the officer of the watch that there’s an interment to be made and prays him to order four sailors down to where the corpse lies to carry it and cast it out when the ceremonies are over, and two cannoneers to open the porthole hatch by which the corpse is to be launched into the deep. The officer of the watch calls one of the masters of the Equipage who is actually at the same time on duty, and tells to order such things to be executed. The master blows his silver whistle, and orders four men down from deck for the interment and two cannoneers. The Chaplain comes to where the corpse lies, covered with a surplus, stole and cap, his ritual in one hand, and an asperges or holy water sprinkle in the other, and performs that ceremony in a low voice without great solemnity, much in the usual manner as marked in the ritual, beginning with the Oration “Non Intros in Judicium cum servo tuo” until in fine, he makes the Sign of the Cross over the dead and says, “Requiem eternam etc.” the men employed cast the corpse out, and no more is heard nor seen of it after.
I hope by this time, my Dear Friend that I have given you a moderate knowledge of how I employed my time on board, or at least of the Duties of a Chaplain, wherefore I thought it well done to give you these instructions so essential for those who are willing to serve on board, in order to communicate it to them, if you please, and am your humble servant, J .K.
END OF THE 2nd BOOK
JULY 1783
443.
9th
Early this morning I parted with Monsieur and Madame de Montiron in their coach, for their country seat situated in the parish of St. Laurent des Mortiers about the distance of 6 miles SE from Chateaugontier. On our way we dined at a little town named Champagne at the Sign of the White Horse where we were moderately treated. After dinner I went to see the Church which is but a very ordinary edifice, in which I saw nothing more curious than a monument raised in a chapel on the right side of the church composed of marble, over which I saw the statues of an ancient warrior and his lady which made a lively representation to the eye; as to the epitaph I had not time to take a copy as we were ready to set out again for our destination. Having set off at three o’clock we arrived at Noirieux about six o’clock where I found a charming edifice and all things they’re in good repair.
July, 1783
10th
The curé or parish priest whose name is Baalt came to see us and several others.
14th
Several of the neighbouring Gentlemen and Ladies came to see us also and dined with us, whose visits we repaid during the course of the week.
444.
14th
This being the Vigil of St. Margaret the patroness of Madame de Mentiron, a great many clergymen and persons of distinction came and dined with us, for such is the custom of the country. We were about thirty persons at table and had a very plentiful dinner. During the course of the ensuing week we returned the visits which was hitherto made us, especially my lady whom I always accompanied on such occasions, by which means I in a very short interval not only came acquainted with the clergymen of the several parishes contiguous to us, but with all the nobility in them. In a few days after, I remember, we were invited to dine by Monsieur and Madame du Brulon, at their country house named La Lucase, which is quite contiguous to ours. At said place I came acquainted with several persons which is here needless to be named except in particular two young ladies who arrived after dinner, the one a young lady from Laval in a riding dress, and the other a married lady in the attire of a Lieut. of Infantry with this exception not carrying a sword. She wore a pair of neat doeskin breeches and well booted. In a short time after their arrival ’twas proposed to run some country dances, in which my young she officer performed in a manner to draw the admiration of the company, and played on the fiddle exceedingly well by turns. After her departure, I asked Monsieur du Brulon, who conducted us, who that young officer was who danced and played with such grace. He answered me , that the person whom I supposed for an officer was a married lady. This answer surprised me greatly, and I being incredulous was not for some hours after convinced of the truth. This young lady is daughter and only child to a gentleman of fortune of upwards of £2,000 sterling yearly, named Du Bois Seigneur of the Parish of Bierne in which he resides a part of the year at his country seat named La Bar, in the province of Anjou, on the confines near that of Maine of which I shall hereafter have occasion to speak. The young lady of whom there’s question is married to Monsieur de Plessis, nephew to their Lordships the Bishops of Seez and Limoges, brothers, both named Du Plessis D’argentre. The following day I dined at Madame Gitteau’s, a venerable and worthy gentlewoman, at her house at St Laurent des Mortiers, whose daughter is married to Monsieur de Beauchmps, a very discreet young gentleman who lives with her.
445.
Here at this house I was invited by Monsieur de Quatre Barbes and Lady Seigneur of the Parish of Argenton to dine next day with them at their country seat named la Sconniere in said parish. According to promise I went tither, and was there introduced by them to their son-in-law a very fine gentleman of Irish extraction of the noble family of Dean. In a few days afterwards near the end of the month, I was invited to dine at Monsieur du Bois at his country
July 1783
seat named La Bar to which place I accompanied my Lady Madame de Montiron. The Chateau or Castle of La Bar was built by Henry the 4th King of France as a private residence for his favourite concubine named who had an only daughter which was the greatest beauty in France, and perhaps, the greatest wit of her sex at the age of 13 or 14, and whom his Majesty designed for his pleasure at the age of maturity. But God intercepted his wicked design by cutting her off in that early and tender age! The King, however, in regard to her memory ordered a tomb to be erected which I had the pleasure of seeing which is erected in the centre of a little mansion on the left hand side of the courtyard (with regard to him that stands at the hall door). The monument is raised of black marble on the sides and ends of which may be seen the epitaph in Latin, but not altogether entire, at present being broken and defaced in some wise by some Catholic rustics of the invirons as is at present supposed, because both she and her mother were Huguenots. The statue, which lies flat over the monument, is of white marble and to the eye makes but a very ordinary figure. The mansion house is encompassed by a deep ditch full of water and the garden in like manner. I had here the pleasure of seeing my young she officer arrayed in a dress suitable to her sex and quality.. I not only had the honour of being invited and of dining here this day alone, but several times afterwards until the month of October, at which time the family retired to Laval to pass the winter.
August 1783
446.
In the beginning of the present month, my good friend the Rev’d Mr. Drady came to see me, on his return from the country seat of Mr. Fanning, Irish gentleman which is named la Roach Talbot. Having remained but 6 days, he parted for Angers to my great regret, for I imagined myself very happy whilst he remained here. At this time the Curé or Parish Priest of St. Micheal was indisposed and confined I may say to his bed by a sort of palsy which then menaced him greatly, and as it was in some wise essentially demanded to have two Masses in his Church on the Feast of the Assumption, I was in consequence prayed to celebrate the High Mass which I did accordingly.
On the 19th I took horse for Angers in order to see my countrymen there whom I appraised of my intention by circular letter; having arrived within two leagues from Angers, I sent my horse back by the servant who accompanied me and walked to Angers where I arrived at eleven o’clock; and after walking the two leagues very smartly I became almost as thirsty as my shirt which by that time had drank up a considerable quantity, for I remember the day was exceedingly warm. My first care on my arrival was to visit the Rev’d Mr. Drady sacristan of the Church of St. Maurice who gave me a glass of excellent wine to refresh me after I had changed linen. I being refreshed on each side and in good spirit I went to where my countrymen lodged in the street of St. Aubin, chez Monsieur la Roache, who there waited my arrival for dinner. In fine having embraced each of them we soon after sat to dinner, after which we walked in to town and on public walks to recreate ourselves.
447.
The next day we had a great feast at said house and the ensuing again at Madame Dupre’s
August, 1783
sworn finger smith with whom Messieurs. Murphy & Garvey then lodged. On the 23rd I took my leave of them and returned back to the country where I was amused and diverted hunting and fowling and feasting with my lady at one gentleman’s house or other for a considerable time afterwards.
24th
In the afternoon there came a young lady here from the town of Chateaugonteir named Miss Maumousseau of a very agreeable character who diverted me for the space of six weeks which she spent here by her humour and pleasantry which I never failed to return. She is of the noble and respectful family of said name and said town.
448,
31st.
I accompanied the Vicar of this parish, named Bishop, this morning to Chateaugontier where a fair was held said day. On our arrival we left our horses at the principal Inn and went from thence to the Hotel of Monsieur de Gouterai alias Cereler, one of his Majesty’s advocates in said town to whom the Vicar introduced me. Here we were invited to dine which we accepted, after which we went to see the college where he again introduced me to the Principal and the prefect named Hager, who made us take some refreshments. The college of Chateaugontier is handsomely situated almost over the left side of the River Mayenne right opposite to the town, which is situated on the other side.
Here is a very fine spacious court and a very neat garden, from each a charming view of the town which is somewhat considerable having three or four parish Churches, three hospitals, a courthouse, several excellent hotels among which is a fine one belonging to Monsieur de Quatre Barbes, and a small community of Capuchin fryars. After I had seen these things which are the only objects worth attention there, I thought it time to return, and meeting with my lady’s waiting maid who came hither on foot, I made her accept of my spurs who had none of his own, and so set off. When we were ready to enter on our parish, I parted from the Vicar and took a foot-way whilst he accompanied the waiting-maid and some others who were mounted until he came to the place of separation, when his horse, which was fond of the company, refused taking the right road, began to plunge and rear himself. His rider being a bad horseman closed his heels to his sides not thinking of spurs as much as the horse who felt them well enough so as to cast my poor Vicar to the ground, and what was worse cut his temple with one of his shoes as he trampled and ran over him. When the waiting-maid arrived she informed me that the Vicar was almost killed; which news affrighted me greatly and the more so because I was in some wise the cause of his meeting with such an accident, though innocently, as I made him accept of my spurs. I ran immediately on hearing this news to see him and found that his wound was not so dangerous as the maid represented, which was healed in about a month after.
September 1783
449.
The following is the copy of a letter which I writ to the Rev’d Mr. Drady Sacristan of the Cathedral Church of Angers..
My Dear Mr.. Drady,
___________________________________________________________Notes and Dramatis Personae, etc.
Inland Town: Dunlavan.
Judith: Mrs. Medcalf – Maiden Name, McCabe. Mother of Mr. Edward Medcalf, a celebrated Gambler.
Widdle-waddle – Sir James Tent.
Bristle, Minahan or Eby Woodman..
Crooked pus. Mr. Smith of Battiboy who beat the Rev. Patrick Donnelan, P..P., of said place, and who died in a miserable manner all parts of his body being covered over with scales.