At 11 ― just as I was going to sleep ― the wind changed to N.W. & a terrific fuss began ― so that although no brinds or windows came open ― sleep was impossible. Furious winds there be hereabout indeed.
Did not sleep till 2.
In the morning ― the wind was still very high, & the weather cold ― bitter cold.
Breakfast & heard G. read ― which he does nicely now: & his writing is immensely improved.
Then ― worked ― as might be ― at 3 or 4 of the 30 Tyrants: but Mrs. Lyell ― Col. Bowen, ― Mr. Cave, Mr. & Mrs. Gardiner, Majr. Buchanan, & Major Young all came. Mrs. L. also “wishes” for a drawing ― so 3 are gone out of the 30. ― (or 60. ―)
Cave staid some time, a very travelled culturist & delightful fellow.
At 4 ― walked with him over Ascension ― a calmer evening, & lovely. Talk of J.H.B. ― & the West Indies &c. &c. &c. I wonder how far he knows that J.H.B.’s marriage was so wholly owing to my doings.
Returned by 5.20. At 6. Stephanizzi ― who is all agog about Prince Alfred having been chosen.
Dined on t’other half of the Duk: & always rice-pudding.
Penned out from 8. to 10. ―
Wind less awful.
[Transcribed by Marco Graziosi from Houghton Library, Harvard University, MS Eng. 797.3. Image.]
