Chapter V: Preface (4)

27.--At the Norfolk Assizes, held at Norwich, before Mr. Justice Grose, Martha Alden was tried for the murder of her husband, Samuel Alden, at Attleborough, on July 18th. While the man was asleep in bed his wife, with a bill-hook, inflicted terrible wounds on his head, face, and throat. With the assistance of a girl, named Mary Orvice, the prisoner on the 19th deposited the body in a dry ditch in the garden; on the 20th, they carried it in a corn sack to the common and "shot" it into a pond, where it was subsequently discovered. His lordship, in summing up, said that Orvice might have been charged with being accessory to an attempted concealment of murder. The jury found the prisoner guilty, and the judge "doomed her to death, to be drawn on a hurdle to the place of execution, there to be hanged by the neck, and her body to be dissected." The execution took place at Norwich on July 31st. The populace at Attleborough showed their detestation of the crime by destroying the former dwelling-house of the prisoner. It was reported that the ghost of Alden "walked" on the Castle Hill, and in the month of December a party of drunken men, who went there to "lay" the spirit, were seized by the jailer and detained in prison for two days, pending an inquiry into their conduct.

--At the same Assizes, before Lord Ellenborough, an action was tried, in which Lord Albemarle claimed for the recovery of penalties, amounting to 700 pounds, under the game laws. The defendant, one Brooke, a poulterer and wholesale dealer in game, at Thetford, was connected with the poachers and gamekeepers in Norfolk, and with the dealers in Leadenhall market. "The interruption of his commerce," said counsel, "had created as much alarm in Leadenhall market as the stagnation of trade between this country and the North of Germany had occasioned amongst the merchants at the Royal Exchange." A verdict was given for the plaintiff, damages 40 pounds, "at the rate of 5 pounds for each head of game which had fallen out of a basket sent by the defendant to the London waggon office at Thetford for transit to the metropolis."

29.--At the public breakfasting at Harper's Ranelagh Gardens, Norwich, nearly 1,100 persons assembled, and 3,500 were present at the evening performance.

30.--The sum of 180 pounds 3s. was collected at the anniversary service held at the Cathedral on behalf of the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, and 50 pounds 16s. resulted from the dinner at the White Swan.

AUGUST.

5.--In the House of Commons a petition was presented on behalf of Messrs. Blackburne and Bonner, brewers, of Lynn, and of the inhabitants of the town, who complained of the undue influence and the arbitrary proceedings of the magistrates of that borough in withholding publicans' licences.

8.--The Norwich Paving Commissioners advertised for tenders for lighting the city. The number of lamps, it was stated, would not be fewer than 1,200 nor more than 1,400.

10.--Mr. Edmund Reader, of Sisland, near Loddon, undertook, for a bet of five guineas, to cut and tie one acre of wheat in 16 hours in a field belonging to Mr. Burton, at Barford. In 14 hours he had cut one acre seven roods, and had tied 430 sheaves.

31.--A match at bowls was played at Cley, between three gentlemen of that parish and three of Holt, for 50 guineas a side. The latter won five games out of seven.

SEPTEMBER.

7.--The City of Norwich Regiment of Volunteers assembled on Tombland at five am., and marched to Yarmouth for garrison duty. There were on parade 26 officers, 30 sergeants, 25 corporals, and 500 rank and file.

12.--Mr. Philipsthal's Phantasmagoria was exhibited at the Theatre Royal, Norwich.

14.--Died, at Rainham, in his 84th year, George Marquis Townshend, a Field Marshal, Colonel of the 2nd Regiment of Dragoon Guards, and Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk. His lordship represented Norfolk from 1747 to 1764, and from 1768 to 1772 was Viceroy of Ireland. He acted as Brigadier-General, and gained much honour at the taking of Quebec in 1759, when the command of the troops devolved upon him, in consequence of the death of General Wolfe and of the wounding of General Monkton, second in command. His Majesty granted a pension of 1,000 pounds a year out of the privy purse to the Marchioness Townshend.

19.*--"One day last week a child, playing in the churchyard of St. Michael-at-Plea, Norwich, found concealed behind a gravestone, covered with a tile, a parcel, containing more than 90 pounds in forged Bank of England notes and 14 pounds in counterfeit shillings."

21.--At a quarterly assembly of the Norwich Corporation the city gates still remaining were ordered to be taken down.

OCTOBER.

13.--The Duke of Clarence, accompanied by the Earl and Countess Cholmondeley, visited Lynn. The Corporation presented an address to his Royal Highness, who was afterwards admitted a free burgess.

19.--Blickling races were this year supplemented by wrestling matches.

22.--Died, aged 40, at Brickhill, Buckinghamshire, on his way from Liverpool, where he had arrived from America, Robert Murray, merchant, of New York, fifth son of Dr. John Murray, of Norwich. He had been absent more than 16 years, and had revisited England, in the hope of alleviating the symptoms of a pulmonary complaint.

24.--Died, in Dublin, aged 72, Mr. James Bradfield, of Stoke Ferry, who by his will endowed a school in that village for 25 poor children.

28.--Lord Cathcart, Commander-in-Chief of the Army employed against Copenhagen, arrived in Norwich from Yarmouth, and next day proceeded to London.

29.--Louis XVIII., travelling as Count de Lille, arrived off Yarmouth in a Swedish frigate, and landed on November 2nd. He was accompanied by the Duke D'Angouleme, the Duke de Berri, and by other representatives of the French nobility.

--A severe storm occurred off the Norfolk coast, and several transports were lost at Yarmouth, where Admiral Gambier arrived with 32 sail of the line, several Dutch prizes, and a great number of frigates.

31.*--"The Militia ballot has commenced. The quota for Norfolk and Norwich is 907."

--At the Old Bailey, J. Hopgrave was indicted for an assault, with intent to murder his Majesty's officers of Excise in a smuggling affray at Cawston. The ringleader, one Jeremiah Abel, was convicted at the Old Bailey some months previously. Hopgrave succeeded in proving an _alibi_, and was acquitted. On December 8th, Richard Wiseman, of the Three Pigs, at Edgefield, was charged at the Old Bailey with obstructing the Excise officers at the same time. He also was acquitted on proving an _alibi_.

At the end of this month a shooting party at Holkham killed in three days 1,457 head of game. The party included Mr. Coke, the Marquis of Tavistock, Lords Albemarle, Spencer, Althorpe, Anson, and Bradford, Generals Walpole and Keppel, Sir J. Shelly, Col. Keppel, Messrs. W. Smith, Churchill, Collet, Wilbraham, W. Fitzroy, and Smith. Mr. Coke killed 60 the first day, 66 the second, and 70 the third.

NOVEMBER.

4.--A large barn full of barley in the straw, and a stack of barley, the property of General Money, of Trowse, were destroyed by fire, caused by an incendiary, named Thomas Sutton. At the Assizes, held at Thetford, on March 21st, 1808, before Mr. Justice Grose, he was found guilty and sentenced to death. He had eight years previously been sentenced to seven years' transportation for stealing a pony belonging to the general, and his father had suffered death for horse stealing. "At the trial he behaved in a most audacious manner to the judge, and when sentenced requested the Sheriff to let him be taken to Norwich that he might be hanged amongst his friends." He was executed on the Castle Hill, Norwich, April 9th, 1808.

--An entertainment was given by Lord and Lady Cholmondeley to upwards of 300 persons at Houghton Hall. The great hall was converted into a theatre for the performance of an opera written by Mr. Panton. The performers included the author, Miss Wood, Lord Malpas, and the Messrs. Lanyas. Between the acts Lady Charlotte Cholmondeley and Miss Cholmondeley played a pianoforte duet. The opera was preceded by an address, spoken by Lord Malpas, and was followed by a dance and supper.

7.*--"Nathaniel Easthaugh, bellman in Norwich, in gratitude for having had possession of the city bell for 27 years (one year only excepted), has liberally subscribed the sum of ten guineas towards the new pavement, he being at times unable, through infirmity, to walk over the old one."

10.--Died, aged 52, the Rev. John Walker, one of the minor canons of Norwich Cathedral. His widow afterwards published a volume of his poems.

11.--Seven fishermen were drowned within 50 yards of the shore at Sheringham, through the upsetting of their boats in a sudden gale.

14.--The privateer La Decide was brought into Yarmouth by L'Amiable frigate, Capt. G. Stuart. The privateer had long evaded the cruisers and committed great depredations upon commerce. She was supposed to have captured 30 prizes within three years.

27.--Died, aged 77, John Clarke Snell, of Norwich. "He was formerly of Bury St. Edmund's, and remarkable for his eccentricities and for his study of astrology, which rendered him a well-known character."

28.--John Gulley and Tom Cribb, the famous pugilists, gave an exhibition of sparring in the great room at the King's Head Inn, Norwich. Upwards of 200 persons were present, including the Right Hon. William Windham and the Hon. Edward Harbord.

30.--At the annual meeting of the Society of Universal Good Will at Norwich, it was reported that 2,420 persons had been relieved since its establishment.

DECEMBER.

12.--Married, at his lordship's house, Charles Street, Berkeley Square, London, the Right Hon. the Earl of Craven to Miss Louisa Brunton, of Covent Garden Theatre, and daughter of John Brunton, Esq., formerly of Norwich, who gave the bride away. "The Earl is in his 37th and the fair bride in her 25th year." Mr. Brunton was for many years manager of the Norwich Theatre, and Miss Louisa Brunton was a favourite performer there.

13.--Died, in St. Simon's, Norwich, aged 86, Mrs. Mary Mack. "She lived several years in the service of the late Mr. W. Tilyard, of Poringland, during which time she constantly travelled the number of 2,920 miles annually, which in ten years amounted to 29,220, the house being fully four miles from Norwich, and her master, who was a very eccentric character, never failed sending her every day (Sunday not excepted) for such things as his whimsical and capricious fancy suggested he stood in need of."

--Died, at Claxton, Mrs. Eliza Norton, in her 101st year.

19.*--"A telegraph or signal station is on the point of being erected upon the hills leading from Norwich to Thorpe. It is to be commanded by a naval officer, and the object of it is to open and maintain a prompt communication with Yarmouth on the one side, and with the telegraphs between Norwich and London on the other." Messages were afterwards sent from the Admiralty to Yarmouth in 17 minutes. The chain of communication was by Strumpshaw, Thorpe Hills, Honingham, Carlton, and Harling, and thence by way of Thetford and Bury St. Edmund's, across Newmarket Heath, to London.

21.--Experiments were made at Norwich, with the view of testing the practicability of General Money's proposal to Government for mounting cannon on waggons for the protection of vessels on the coast. The Artillery officers at Woolwich gave General Money credit for his invention, and many ship owners and masters of vessels approved the plan.

An Act was passed this year for enabling Rear-Admiral Bentinck, tenant for life under the will of his late father, Mr. John Albert Bentinck, to charge his estates in the county of Norfolk with the sums therein mentioned, for embanking, improving, and increasing the same estates by the means therein mentioned.

1808.

JANUARY.

9.*--"Capt. Manby's invention for rescuing persons from vessels stranded on a lee shore has received the approbation of the Lords of the Admiralty." On February 12th the apparatus was successfully employed in saving the crew of a vessel named the Elizabeth of Plymouth. In May, the Society of Arts awarded their gold medal to Capt. Manby for his invention; and Parliament at different times rewarded him with grants amounting to 6,000 pounds, and adopted his apparatus at various stations on dangerous parts of the coast.

10.--Lord Hutchinson and Lord L. Gower arrived at Norwich from Yarmouth, where they had landed from the Belette sloop of war, on their return from St. Petersburgh.

14.--During a heavy gale several vessels were stranded between Blakeney and Sheringham. Much damage was done by an inundation at Cley-next-the-Sea.

17.--Died, of typhus fever, in his 20th year, Viscount Trafalgar, only son of Earl Nelson.

23.*--"In consequence of the anniversary of King Charles's martyrdom, the nights of performance at the Theatre Royal, Norwich, next week, will be Monday, the 25th, Wednesday, the 27th, Thursday, 28th, and Friday, 29th."

FEBRUARY.

11.--A great snow storm. The coaches which should have arrived on Friday did not reach Norwich until the following Tuesday and Wednesday. "The mail guards were obliged to traverse the country with the bags on their shoulders, sometimes on foot, up to their breasts in snow, and sometimes on horseback, across the open fields and heaths. From the Friday till the following Tuesday the bags for London by Newmarket were dispatched hence in post chaises. Labourers were employed in clearing the highways, and in some places they cut three miles through the snow." So complete an obstruction to communication had not occurred since 1797, when the coaches were four days performing the journey from London.

14.--Died, in London, in his 60th year, "that eccentric and truly worthy character," the Rev. Joshua Larwood, rector of Swanton Morley, and many years chaplain on board the Britannia. He was the author of "Erratics," and of several other works.

15.--The constables of Norwich destroyed many dogs which had been found without muzzles in the public streets. Several cases of rabies and of deaths from hydrophobia were reported at this date.

17.--Died, at the age of 83, at Norwich, Mr. Francis Columbine. He served the office of Sheriff in 1769, and of Mayor in 1776.

Meetings were held in Norwich and throughout Norfolk this month, at which Mr. Joseph Lancaster lectured on his improved method of education. Lancasterian schools were established in Norwich, Lynn, and Downham in May, 1809.

MARCH.

2.--The Hon. William Asheton Harbord appointed Lord Lieutenant and Custos Rotulorum of the county of Norfolk, in place of the Marquis Townshend, deceased. The Corporation of Norwich, on May 3rd, conferred upon Mr. Harbord the honorary freedom of the city.

5.*--"The Dean of Norwich has appointed Dr. Beckwith to be organist of the Cathedral, in the room of Mr. T. Garland, resigned." (Mr. Garland died on February 21st, aged 77, having been organist 59 years.)

8.--Died, at Norwich, aged 77, William Love, musician. "He was formerly leader of the band at the Theatre, a person of great genius in his profession, of great suavity of manners, and of great improvidence in conduct."

11.--At a meeting held at the Angel Inn, Norwich, at which Mr. T. W. Coke presided, Mr. Nathaniel Kent, of Ripon Hall, was presented by the agriculturists of the county with a massive silver goblet, in recognition of "his integrity and impartiality between landlord and tenant, in his profession as a surveyor of land, and for his liberal and upright attachment to the interests of agriculture."

30.--The Racoon sloop of war, 20 guns, was launched from Mr. J. Preston's dockyard at Yarmouth.

31.--Died, at Wells-next-the-Sea, aged 82, Mr. Charles Boyles, brother of Mrs. Murray, widow of Dr. John Murray, of Norwich.

--Died, at Melton House, aged 18, Miss Astley, eldest daughter of Sir Jacob Astley, Bart. She was in the act of placing coals upon the fire, when her dress became ignited, and she succumbed to her injuries within twenty-four hours.

APRIL.

2.*--"We understand that, in consequence of many burdens lately brought on the city by the birth of illegitimate children, the Corporation of the Guardians have offered a reward of 2s. 6d. to any person who shall give information of the pregnancy or delivery of any unmarried woman in Norwich."

4.--The week commencing this date, during which the ward elections were held at Norwich, was for the first time referred to as "cleansing week." "Many voters, who had been cooped up at farm houses in the country at great expense, were brought in post chaises to the polling places. For the last four days we have had as much ringing and firing of bells as if we had received a confirmation of the reports of the naval victory in the Mediterranean."

9.--The performance for the benefit of Mr. Hindes, manager of the Theatre Royal, Norwich, produced the largest receipt ever known at the house on a like occasion, namely, 163 pounds.

16.--John Chapman, 34, and William Fuller, 26, for shooting at and wounding a gamekeeper in the service of Lord Cholmondeley, were executed on Castle Hill, Norwich.

28.--A county meeting was held at the Shire-house, Norwich, to take into consideration the measure pending in Parliament for prohibiting the use of grain in distilleries, and for the substitution of sugar. It was resolved to petition against such prohibition as likely to prove injurious to the owners and occupiers of land in Norfolk. (Parliament determined, however, in favour of using Colonial produce instead of English barley.)

30.*--(Advt.) "There will be a match of cocks fought between the gentlemen of Norwich and the gentlemen of Norfolk, to show 25 mains and 8 byes, to fight for two guineas a battle, and 20 guineas the odd. One turn out for ten guineas; to be fought on the 2nd and 3rd day of May, at the King's Head, in Magdalen Street, Norwich. A pair of cocks to be pitted at twelve o'clock precisely. Feeders, Lamb for Norwich; Carter for Norfolk."

Died, this month, aged 100, Mr. John Myhill, of Catfield.

MAY.

2.--A new peal of ten bells was opened at St. Nicholas, Great Yarmouth.

3.--Mr. Robert Alderson was elected Governor of the Norwich Court of Guardians, in the place of Mr. Robert Partridge, resigned.

6.--Mrs. and Miss Robertson, of the Close, Norwich, and the Misses Doune were returning to the city from Hockering, when they were stopped by a highwayman near Cossey Wood. He was armed with pistols, and, after taking all their valuable articles of jewellery, rode off.

10.--An Expedition, consisting of 150 transports, sailed from Yarmouth for the Baltic, for the protection of Sweden. The Mars, Admiral Keats, the Audacious, Capt. Lukin, and other warships formed the convoy; and Sir John Moore, with Major-Generals Paget and Murray, had command of the troops.

21.--The coach house, brew house, and offices at Blickling Hall, with 180 stand of arms, were destroyed by fire.

JUNE.

4.--The Society for the Encouragement of Arts and Manufactures awarded their silver medal to Mrs. Coppin, of St. Stephen's Street, Norwich, for her oil painting, "The Gamesters."

--An annual ploughing match was inaugurated at Ellingham by the Rev. Wm. Johnson, to encourage the use of oxen in husbandry.

6.--The Norwich Regiment of Volunteer Infantry, Col. Harvey, 500 strong, proceeded to Yarmouth for garrison duly, and returned to Norwich on the 18th.

13.--A cricket match, for 50 guineas a side, was played at Swaffham, between the gentlemen of Swaffham and the gentlemen of Shipdham, and was won by the latter.

16.--Died, at Norwich, in this 68th year, Sir Roger Kerrison, banker, and for many years Receiver-General for Norfolk. He was an alderman of the Mancroft Ward, served the office of High Sheriff in 1800, and was twice Mayor of Norwich, 1778-1802.

20.--Holkham Sheep Shearing commenced. The sweepstakes of 28 subscribers, at 10s. 6d. each, for naming the weight of Mr. Coke's three-shear half-bred merino wether, was won by Mr. Thomas More, of Watham, who guessed the exact weight, 132 lbs. A patent dibbling iron, which deposited the seed at the time the holes were struck, exhibited by the Rev. Mr. Barker, of Woodbridge, was the winning implement. Mr. F. Smith, of Norwich, exhibited specimens of ladies' merino dresses, scarves, shawls, stockings, coating, and cassimers, most of which were made from the wool of Mr. Coke's sheep. "A pair of worstead stockings were of so delicate a fabric that the two stockings passed at the same time through a lady's ring. A manufacturer had ordered a dozen pair at 18 guineas."

21.--The Guild feast given at St. Andrew's Hall by the Mayor of Norwich, Mr. Starling Day, jun., was attended by 580 guests.

JULY.

12.--At the Norwich Quarter Sessions, the Norwich Flour Company appealed against the assessment of their premises in St. Andrew's. The company was described as an unprofitable concern. The assessment was reduced.

--A member of the Swaffham Cricket Club played and beat, with great ease in one innings, "six players of professional celebrity in that town."

13.--The thermometer registered 97 degrees in the shade at Catton. Many horses died from the excessive heat.

14.--Sergt.-Major Marshall, of the Thetford Volunteer Corps, and his son were killed by an accidental explosion while sorting damaged cartridges.

18.--A prize fight, for 40 pounds a side, took place on Kirstead Green, between Wm. Underwood, of Seething, and John Chase, of Brooke. Eighty-five rounds were fought in two hours. Underwood won.

21.--Thorpe Water Frolic took place. "The Admiral of the flotilla was placed in a small boat and carried round Thorpe Gardens several times, with guns firing, flags flying, and music playing. The company sang 'God Save the King' and 'Rule Britannia.' A young gentleman favoured the company with an excellent hornpipe on the top of the Apollo barge."

23.--The bankruptcy of Sir R. Kerrison and Sons created much sensation in Norwich. "The crowd was so great in the King's Head Inn yard of persons who came to prove their debts that many had to return without proving them." The amount proved was considerably over 580,000 pounds. On January 16th, 1809, the creditors agreed to pay the sum of 5,500 pounds to Lady Kerrison, in lieu of dower and of other claims and demands she might have on the estate. On May 13th, a dividend of 6s. 8d. in the pound was ordered to be paid on the 17th to the 3,600 creditors who had proved their debts. Dividends amounting to 16s. 4d. in the pound were afterwards paid.

29.--At a special meeting of the Norwich Corporation, an address to his Majesty was unanimously agreed to, "on the subject of the noble struggle of the patriots of Spain and Portugal against the Ruler of France, and of the generous aid given to their endeavours by our Government."

AUGUST.

1.--Mr. Stephen Springall, farmer, of Wroxham Hall, and his nephew, aged 12, were drowned at Wroxham Water Frolic, through the capsizing of their boat.

8.--A remarkable storm occurred at Norwich. Streets were inundated and cellars flooded. "The roaring of the waters in falling from the roof to the lower leads of the Cathedral was so tremendous as literally to drown the noise of the thunder that accompanied it."

15.--The Norwich Society of Artists opened their fourth exhibition.

20.*--"At the Hospital anniversary at Norwich, the sum collected at the Cathedral was 161 pounds 1s., and at the dinner, 53 pounds 7s. Of the church collection, 1 pounds 6s. 6d. was base coin."

--*"Among the many performers who have contributed in the course of the Assize week to the entertainment of the city, may be reckoned the wonderful John Howes, from Eyke, near Woodbridge. Though bereft of sight and moving in a humble sphere of life, his arrival in Norwich was announced by the ringing of bells, for he carries a complete peal of twelve about with him, which, when he performs, he suspends upon a pole placed horizontally across the backs of two chairs. A variety of peals, as well as song tunes, country dances, &c., he plays with a degree of accuracy and precision that charm all those who witness his performance."

28.--Braconash Church was reopened for service by the Bishop of Norwich, after its complete restoration. Mr. T. T. Berney, of Bracon Hall, entertained many of the neighbouring clergy at dinner.

30.--Died, at the age of 101, Mrs. Mary Moneyment, of St. Faith's.

Many of the Volunteers transferred their services to the Local Militia, established this month under the Act passed in July.

SEPTEMBER.

2.--Died, in his 49th year, Dr. Richard Lubbock, of Norwich. He was educated at the Grammar School, under the Rev. G. W. Lemon, author of the "English Derivative Dictionary," was a pupil of Mr. Rigby, and studied for several years at Edinburgh University.

5.--A cricket match was played at Thetford, between the Thetford and Newmarket clubs. The former won by 50 "notches."

17.*--"At the late meeting of the county magistrates, it was agreed that the passage way from the top of the Castle Hill, Norwich, to the north-east side should be filled up, and the iron railing continued from the bridge quite round. The descent from that part of the hill towards Gurney's bank will be by a flight of stone steps."

19.--Great festivities took place at Rainham Hall to celebrate the arrival of the Marquis Townshend. "A bullock was roasted and four sheep boiled, and a large quantity of that old beverage made from malt and hops contributed to make all heads and hearts glow with gratitude to the noble donor."

21.--At a quarterly meeting of the Norwich Corporation, the Commons proposed that the representatives of the city be instructed to oppose the Bill for erecting a bridge over the river at Carrow Abbey. The motion was not agreed to by the aldermen. On December 15th, a numerous meeting was held at the Guildhall to oppose the erection of the bridge, on the ground that it was unnecessary. On February 20th, 1809, Mr. Patteson presented a petition to the House of Commons, praying for leave to bring in a Bill for carrying out the proposal. On April 21st, Mr. Patteson moved the second reading of the Carrow Bridge Bill, which was opposed by Mr. W. Smith. Fourteen voted for the motion, and nine against. These numbers not constituting a House, the further consideration of the Bill was deferred to a future sitting, when the second reading was carried by 48 votes to 26. Ultimately, the Bill received the Royal assent. On July 26th, the Commissioners selected Mr. A. Brown's plan for an iron bridge, and on July 31st, contracts were entered into with Mr. J. G. Aggs for casting the ironwork; with Messrs. Athow and De Carle for the stonework; and with Mr. N. Wyeth for the brickwork and abutments. On December 18th, a proposition was submitted to the Commissioners in favour of abandoning the Carrow Bridge scheme, in view of the projected erection, near the Foundry, of a bridge over the Wensum. It was decided, however, to push on with the work as speedily as possible; and the first stone was laid on April 26th, 1810, by the Mayor, Mr. Thomas Back.

25.--Died, the celebrated Greek scholar, Richard Porson. He was a native of Ruston, in Norfolk. He left a sister, the wife of Mr. S. Hawes, of Coltishall. His brother Thomas, who kept a boarding school at Fakenham, died in 1792.

27.--A rowing match, for ten guineas a side, took place at Norwich, between the six-oared boats, the Britannia and the Crown Point. The latter won. Distance, 4.5 miles; time, 30 minutes 30 seconds.

OCTOBER.

5.--Mr. Shelford Bidwell was elected Mayor of Thetford. "The usual entertainment was given to the Corporation. The source from whence it was, as usual, derived is worthy of record. The roast beef is provided by the Town Clerk; the boiled beef by the tenant of the tolls of the navigation; the geese by the tenant of the bridge tolls; the game and wine by the Mayor-Elect; and the keeper of the tavern adjacent to the Guildhall finds the plumb puddings. Is this immemorial custom in the above very ancient borough not the origin of the present fashionable _Pic Nics_?"

10.--About two-thirds of Col. Patteson's Volunteer Infantry were enrolled as Local Militia.

15.--The Norwich corn merchants demanded of the farmers a month's credit, instead of paying ready money for their corn as hitherto, but it was resisted by the growers, and ultimately abandoned by the merchants. In the Court of King's Bench, on November 25th, Lord Ellenborough, who was applied to for a rule, held that individuals might buy and sell upon terms agreed to, but combining to impose terms upon the growers was calculated to enhance the price of grain in the market, and to lessen the supply in the market, which was another cause for an increased price.

16.--Fundenhall Church was opened, after extensive repair. The chancel was almost rebuilt by Mr. T. T. Berney, the impropriator.

18.--A rowing match, for five guineas a side, took place between the Revenge, six oars, and the Lion, four oars. The course was from Carrow to Whitlingham and back. The Revenge won.

25.--At Blickling Races a silver cup was for the first time offered for competition by horses ridden in a regiment or troop of Norfolk Yeomanry Cavalry.

28.--The organ erected at St. Andrew's Church, Norwich, was opened by Dr. Beckwith. A grand selection from the works of Handel was played upon the instrument, and upwards of 120 pounds was collected.

31.--At Holkham, from October 31st to November 17th, Mr. Coke and seven other guns killed 1,131 hares, 214 pheasants, 366 partridges, 983 rabbits, 30 woodcock, 12 wood pigeons, and 5 snipe.

NOVEMBER.

9.--A woman, named Mary Hudson, aged 35, escaped from Norwich City Gaol under extraordinary circumstances. She made a hole through the wall of the room in which she was confined, and crept through it into the street, taking her six months old infant with her. The wall was two feet in thickness, and she must have been employed some nights in making the aperture. The bricks were concealed beneath her bed, and the loose rubbish put into the pillowcase. Another bed served to conceal the hole in the wall. In the hue and cry advertisement, offering a reward of ten guineas for her recapture, it was stated that a Yarmouth hawker and pedlar, named Thomas Cocks, "who frequently feeds cocks for fighting in Norfolk and Suffolk," was suspected of having assisted the woman to escape. There is no record of her recapture.

15.--Swaffham Coursing Meeting took place. It was described as "the most successful meeting since the renewal of coursing here." Two hundred persons attended the ball.

24.--The Wymondham troop of Yeomanry Cavalry presented a valuable sword to the commanding officer, Capt. John Darell.

DECEMBER.

10.*--"The lay clerks of Norwich Cathedral have lately had their salaries augmented 12 pounds each, being only the second advance since the time of Henry VIII."

17.--From Saturday, the 17th, to Saturday, the 24th, the Newmarket mail coach, owing to the heavy fall of snow, did not arrive in Norwich with the letters until after the departure of the coaches for London. Great inconvenience was occasioned thereby in commercial circles.

21.--Died, aged 18, Miss Fisher, only daughter of Mr. Fisher, of the Newmarket Theatre, and formerly of Norwich.

24.*--(Advt.) "A main of cocks will be fought at the Maid's Head Inn, Norwich, on Tuesday and Wednesday, the 3rd and 4th of January, 1809; to show 31 mains, to fight for ten guineas a battle, and 100 the odd battle. Likewise to show ten bye cocks for five guineas a battle, and two turn outs. Feeders, Lamb, Norfolk; Cock, Norwich."

31.--John Gulley, Tom Crib, and Tom Belcher gave a boxing exhibition at Norwich before an audience of 800 persons.

Col. Robert Harvey, not being joined by a sufficient number of the Volunteers under his command to permit of its becoming a battalion of Local Militia, he resigned his commission, and was succeeded by Lieut.-Col. De Hague.

1809.

JANUARY.

14.*--"The orders lately come down to Norwich, besides affording constant employment to most of the manufacturing poor for nearly twelve months, will in the different branches of labour diffuse upwards of 40,000 pounds in earnings, exclusive of the amount circulated for combing and spinning."

15.--The Norwich Volunteer Infantry, commanded by Lieut.-Col. De Hague, was formed into a battalion of five companies of 60 men each.

25.--A "grand operatical romance," entitled "The Forty Thieves," was produced for the first time at Norwich Theatre, with scenery specially painted by Dixon.

28.*--(Advt.) "A card. Mr. Lambert, from Leicester, respectfully informs the ladies and gentlemen of Norwich and its vicinity that he arrived on Sunday at Mr. Leeche's, at the King's Head, where he will see company from 11 to 2, from 3 till 6, and from 7 till 9 each day. Admission one shilling each." Lambert died on Wednesday, June 21st, 1809, at Stamford. He was in his 40th year, and weighed 52 stones 11 lbs.

28.--In consequence of a rapid thaw, the low lying parts of Norwich were flooded. "Some of the houses were six or seven feet under water," and boats were rowed in the street at St. Martin-at-Oak. The marshes below Norwich were so inundated that the course of the river could not be traced, and the barge proceeding to Yarmouth had to return, in consequence of the men being unable to find the channel.

30.--During a violent gale a stack of chimneys fell on the roof of an old house in Cockey Lane, Norwich. Mr. and Mrs. Graham were buried in the ruins and killed. On the same night a large tree in Sprowston Park was blown down. It was planted the day King Charles was beheaded, January 30th, 1649.

FEBRUARY.

3.--Mr. S. Mitchell (as nominee for the Wymer Ward, Norwich) obtained judgment in the Court of King's Bench, by which it was ruled that Militiamen out on duty, but having dwellings in the city in which their families lived, had a right to vote at ward elections.

7.--A stage coach, owned by Mr. Wm. Funnell, and known as the Lynn and Norwich Telegraph, commenced running. It left the Star Inn, Lynn, on Tuesdays and Fridays at eight a.m., and arrived at the Woolpack Inn, Norwich, at eight p.m. It ran by way of Grimston, Great Massingham, Rougham, Litcham, Mileham, Stanfield, Brisley, Elmham, Billingford, Bawdeswell, Lenwade Bridge, Attlebridge, and Drayton. The return journey was on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

24.--Died, at his house in Bruton Street, London, aged 85, the Right Hon. the Earl of Orford. His lordship was the nephew of the famous Sir Robert Walpole, afterwards Earl of Orford. For many years he sat in the House of Lords as Baron Walpole of Wolterton. On the death of Horace, Earl of Orford, he succeeded to the Barony of Houghton, the Earldom becoming extinct, but he was afterwards created Earl of Orford. He was succeeded by his eldest son, Lord Walpole, who was for many years member for Lynn. General Walpole, who concluded the treaty with the Maroons in Jamaica, who seconded Mr. Tierney in his duel with Mr. Pitt, and who was one of Mr. Fox's secretaries, was a younger son of the deceased Earl. The remains were brought from London for interment in the family vault at Wolterton. The funeral procession passed through Norwich on March 10th in the following order:--"Four horsemen preceding the Earl's coronet, borne on a cushion of crimson velvet by a person on horseback, bare headed; then the body in a hearse, surmounted with plumes and drawn by six horses, followed by a mourning coach and six; his lordship's coach and six, with blinds up, and servants on horseback closed the procession." The great bell of St. Peter Mancroft, and the bells of other churches tolled as the procession passed through the city.

28.--The Norwich Squadron of Light Horse Volunteers had just concluded their drill on Mulbarton Common, when Capt. Darell's hounds drove a stag across the parade ground. The Volunteers at once joined in the chase, "to which it will readily be conceived their numbers and appearance gave a great _eclat_." The stag was taken alive in a shed at Mangreen, after a run of 3 hours 10 minutes.

Died, this month, Mr. John Wagstaffe, of Bawburgh. He was the author of a poem, entitled "Stonehenge," dedicated to his friend and neighbour, Mr. Edward Jerningham.

APRIL.

3.--A trotting match took place between Young Adonis, a colt belonging to Mr. James Neeve, of Terrington St. Clement, and an eight year old horse, Hue and Cry, owned by Mr. James Mathew, of the same place. The stakes were 20 pounds a side, and the distance five miles. The colt, which carried 13 stones, covered the distance in 19 minutes, and won.

10.--A meeting was held at St. Andrew's Hall, Norwich, at which resolutions were passed, thanking Col. Wardle and his supporters for their conduct in Parliament, respecting the charges preferred against the Duke of York.

21.--A new peal of bells was opened at Wiveton. The tenor, weighing upwards of 11 cwts., was cast and hung by Mr. Wm. Dobson, of Downham Market.

22.--The postmasters announced that "from the wonderfully high prices of horses, hay, corn, &c.," they were "under the disagreeable necessity of charging eighteen pence per mile from this date."

27.--Died, aged 32, in Arras prison, John Rising, sixth son of Mr. Robert Rising, of Somerton Hall. He commanded the Vanguard letter of marque, which was captured, on her return from Trinidad, off Beachy Head, by the Ambuscade, after a desperate resistance. The remains of the deceased were followed to the grave by upwards of 200 Englishmen.

MAY.

9.--The six regiments of Norfolk Local Militia assembled for 28 days' training at Norwich, Yarmouth, Lynn, and Swaffham.

11.--Notice was issued of an intended application to Parliament for an Act for erecting a bridge over the river Wensum, at or near the Foundry, in the parish of St. Peter per Mountergate, Norwich, for making roads for connecting the bridge with the Thorpe turnpike road and the Castle Hill, and for raising money to carry the Act into execution. A petition for leave to bring in a Bill was presented in the House of Commons in February, 1810, and on March 13th the Bill was read a second time, and committed. It was announced on April 14th that the measure had passed the House of Commons, and been read a first time in the House of Lords. On April 18th, the Bill received the Royal assent. The first stone of the bridge was laid on August 6th by Alderman Jonathan Davey, the projector of the undertaking. The contractor was Mr. Mendham, of Holt.

12.--On this day the thermometer stood at 80 degrees in Norwich.

13.--The Rev. Charles Millard appointed Chancellor of the Diocese of Norwich, on the resignation of the Rev. Henry Bathurst.

19.--The officers of the Lynn Freebridge Legion presented a sword to their commanding officer, Lieut.-Col. Taylor.

JUNE.

3.--Died, aged 49, John Christmas Beckwith, Mus. Doc., organist of Norwich Cathedral and St. Peter Mancroft. On the 7th, "the remains of this eminent musician were interred in St. Peter's Church under the organ, agreeable to his own desire." His son, Mr. John Beckwith, succeeded him in both appointments.

7.--Died, in his 68th year, at his house in St. Saviour, Norwich, Mr. Thomas Watson, who served the office of Sheriff in 1789, and of Mayor in 1790.

17.--Mr. Bannister appeared at the Theatre Royal, Norwich, in his entertainment, "Bannister's Second Budget for 1809."

18.--Miss Booth, a well-known Norwich musician, elected organist at the Octagon Chapel, in the place of Mr. John Beckwith.

19.--Holkham Sheep Shearing commenced. An improved turnip drill, made by Mr. Coke's blacksmith (Mann), was exhibited. "By this drill the oilcake dust and turnip seed are kept separate till they come into the funnels, from which they combine and fall into the drills." A manure drill cart, invented by Blyth, of Norwich, was also shown. "This implement first ploughs the soil, deposits the manure, and sows the seed after it, and both are instantly buried up." It was worked by two horses and three men. Mr. Lester, of Paddington, exhibited a working model of a newly-invented machine for separating the corn and seeds from the straw and chaff.

20.--Guild Day at Norwich. Mr. Thomas Back was sworn in as Mayor, and entertained 640 guests at the Guild feast in St. Andrew's Hall. At the ball at Chapel Field House the dancing was opened by the Mayor and Mrs. William Jerningham. The prisoners in the city gaol thanked the Mayor "for one guinea on the Guild Day, and for a plentiful basket of meat from the hall, which was equally divided amongst them."

26.--The Bishop of Norwich confirmed 800 persons at the Cathedral.

27.--Swaffham Races re-established with great success. Four plates were run for on this and the next day, and several of the horses were from Newmarket. "Public ordinaries were provided at the different inns; that at the Crown was attended by a select party of 68 ladies and gentlemen. At seven the former retired to their toilettes, and at about nine o'clock proceeded to the assembly-room, where the company numbered 200 persons. The ball was opened by Mr. P. Hamond and Miss Upcher."

Brooke House (with 170 acres of land), formerly the residence of Sir Roger Kerrison, was this month purchased by Mr. Thomas Kett, of Seething, for 16,010 pounds.

JULY.

5.--Arrived, at Yarmouth, part of the 40 sail of transports, for the purpose of receiving on board the 2nd Battalions of the 11th and 59th Regiments of Foot, the 1st Battalion of the 79th, and other regiments for the Expedition.

11.--At Norwich Quarter Sessions, George Hubbard was indicted for stealing a pair of velveteen breeches. "The offence being for a grand larceny the prisoner was allowed to plead the benefit of clergy." He was sentenced to six months' solitary confinement and to be publicly whipped.

12.--A curious case was tried at the Norfolk Quarter Sessions. In the course of the inquiry into the conduct of the Duke of York in September, 1808, it was stated that a Mrs. Sinclair Sutherland had written to his Royal Highness to induce him, "for certain reasons," not to permit Major Turner, 3rd Dragoon Guards, to sell out in favour of Lieut. Sitwell until the following March. In consequence of this communication, Major Turner's resignation was not accepted until some months after it had been sent in. Major Turner went to reside at Buckenham, in this county. Owing to the annoyance to which he was subjected by Mrs. Sutherland, who, it was alleged, had been under his protection, he appeared in court and moved to exhibit articles of the peace against her. The court ordered the defendant to enter into her own recognisances of 100 pounds and to keep the peace for one year. At the Quarter Sessions on October 4th, Major Turner exhibited fresh articles against Mrs. Sutherland, and stated that seven days after entering into her recognisances she again appeared at his house and committed a breach of the peace. The court thereupon ordered Mrs. Sutherland to find two sureties of 100 pounds each, and to keep the peace for twelve months. Not being prepared with her bond, she was committed to Norwich Castle, but was afterwards released upon two Norwich gentlemen agreeing to be bound for her.

15.--Mr. Incledon appeared at the Theatre Royal, Norwich, in his entertainment, in three parts, entitled, "A Voyage to India." A recitation was given by Mr. Powell, formerly of Norwich Theatre, and of Drury Lane Theatre.

22.--A duel was fought, "in a grove near Norwich, between Mr. B . . . n and Mr. L . . b . . t, both of Norwich, in consequence, we understand, of their paying their addresses to the same young lady. The parties fired, but neither received any injury, after which a reconciliation took place, and Mr. L. resigned his pretensions to the fair lady."

24.--A letter was received by the Commandant of the Norwich Volunteer Infantry, from the Lord Lieutenant of the County, "signifying his Majesty's intention not to make any further allowance for clothing to Volunteer corps, and desiring to know whether the Norwich Volunteers would consider themselves a corps, or transfer their services to the Local Militia?" The Colonel replied "that they would continue their services as long as his Majesty would be pleased to accept them and their present clothing held out."

29.--It was announced that Mr. Henry Aston Barker, "who painted the pictures of London, Paris, Constantinople, Edinburgh, Dublin, Cairo, &c.," exhibited in Leicester Square, London, had drawn "a panoramic view of Norwich and the surrounding country, as seen from the Castle Hill, accompanied by a perspective view of the Castle, engraved in stroke by Mr. Williams."

31.--The annual exhibition of the Norwich Society of Artists was opened in Sir Benjamin Wrenche's Court.

--At the Norfolk Assizes, held at Norwich, the case of the King _v._ Larke, Mileham, and others was tried. This was a prosecution for rioting in a Dissenting meeting-house at Aylsham, and for an assault upon a preacher, named Joseph King, on Sunday evening, March 13th, 1808. The defendants behaved in a very disorderly manner in the chapel, and carried off the minister by force to the Dog Inn. The case was settled by the defendants apologising to the prosecutor in open court, and by paying the costs of the prosecution.

--At the same Assizes, Lord Chief Justice Mansfield had before him the action, Leathes, clerk, _v._ Baker. It was brought by the Rector of Reedham, under a statute of Edward VI., to recover treble the value of the tithes of corn grown on the defendant's farm there, in 1808, and involved in dispute a sum of between 300 and 400 pounds. The two main points which the plaintiff endeavoured to substantiate were, first, that the tenant had not set out the tithes according to law; and, secondly, if set out, it was done fraudulently and unfairly. It was proved that in one field defendant cut the whole crop, tithed and carried a part on one day, and the remainder on the following day. The Judge ruled that this mode of tithing was contrary to law, and said he was sorry to be obliged to direct the special jury to find for the plaintiff. The jury, after requesting his lordship to inform them what was the lowest sum they could award, so as not to subject the defendant to costs, assessed the amount at 8 pounds. A similar action was brought by the same plaintiff at the Lent Assizes at Thetford, on March 19th, 1810, against a farmer, named Maddison, when the jury found for the defendant. At the Norfolk Assizes, held at Norwich, on August 13th, 1810, before the Lord Chief Justice, Baker brought an action against Mr. Leathes, to recover damages for inconvenience and loss sustained by him in 1808, by reason of the defendant allowing his tithes to remain and rot on the plaintiff's land. A verdict was given for Baker, damages, 150 pounds. At the same Assizes, Mr. Leathes brought an action against a farmer, named Long, for not setting out his tithes according to law. Verdict for the plaintiff, damages, 12 pounds.

31.--The Grand Jury for the County held a meeting, at which renewed efforts were commenced to procure the removal of the Lent Assizes from Thetford to Norwich. It was decided to petition Parliament with that object. At Norwich Quarter Sessions, on October 3rd, the Grand Jury made a presentment, asking the city magistrates to co-operate with the county justices. On October 11th, the Norwich Corporation resolved to aid the county in the application to Parliament, and in February, 1810, a petition in favour of the removal was presented in the House of Commons by Mr. Patteson.

AUGUST.

6.--A wedding "of an unusual kind was celebrated at Swaffham. The bride and bridegroom, young persons, were both quite blind."

10.--Races took place at Mattishall. A purse, "given by the town," was won by a horse, named Lord Paget, owned by Mr. Carter, a well-known leader of sport in the district.

14.--Died, at his seat at Costessey, aged 74, Sir William Jerningham, Bart., ("subject to the decision now pending in the House of Lords") Baron Stafford, of Stafford Castle. He was succeeded in his title and estate by his eldest son, Mr. George Jerningham, Haughley Park.

15.--News was received at Norwich of the victory of the British Army in Spain, under Sir Arthur Wellesley.

16.--The first division of the West Norfolk Militia marched into Norwich from Colchester, under the command of Lieut.-Col. Nelthorpe. The second division, commanded by Capt. Barnham, arrived next day. The regiment, which had not been stationed in Norwich for nearly 30 years, had the Earl of Orford as its colonel-in-chief.

SEPTEMBER.

4.--One hundred prisoners of war, from Flushing, arrived at the Cavalry Barracks, Norwich, from Yarmouth, and next day proceeded on their route to Norman Cross. Among them were several officers, and their wives and families, who were sent to Northampton and Chesterford. They expressed their gratitude to the Mayor, magistrates, and citizens, for the humane treatment they had received in Norwich.

13.--Overstrand Hall was purchased by Lord Suffield for 16,510 pounds.

16.*--"Mr. Laverock Love, a young officer of the Aboukir, only 18 years of age (son of Mr. Love, surgeon, of East Dereham, in this county), had the command of a launch at the bombardment of Flushing, and was the first who fired a shot. Letters have been received from several of his brother officers, speaking in the highest terms of his intrepid gallantry."

21.--A plan for the regulation of the Cattle Market was adopted by the Corporation of Norwich.

OCTOBER.

3.--H.R.H. the Duke of York left Buckenham Lodge, the seat of General Sir J. Pulteney, to whom he had been on a visit for the shooting.

7.*--(Advt.) "This day the 'Norwich and Yarmouth Courier' will be published and ready for delivery on the arrival of the mail, at the 'Courier' Office, late Post Office, Market Place, Norwich, containing the same news as the London papers delivered on Saturday in Norwich, and, of course, such as cannot appear in any country paper till the following week. A newspaper, gratis, sent post free to every advertiser."

11.--The Corporation of Norwich voted a loyal address of congratulation to his Majesty, on his entering, on October 25th, upon the 50th year of his reign. It was decided by nine votes to eight not to celebrate the Jubilee "by roasting a bullock in the Market Place and giving away 10 barrels of beer"; and the aldermen negatived a proposal to appropriate a sum out of the Corporation revenues to secure the discharge of certain debtors, as a means of commemorating the event.

17.--Three newly-erected paper mills at Elsing "were set to work on an entirely new principle."

19.--Died, in an obscure apartment in the White Hart Yard, St. Peter Mancroft, Norwich, Mr. Robert Fenn. "In the early part of his life his company was sought after and welcomed by persons of high rank in the sporting line. He possessed great skill as a marksman, and had the best method of training dogs. As a tavern companion he was jocular, facetious, and replete with anecdote, entertaining the company, and inspiring mirth with his oddities and eccentricities." He was in his 75th year.

20.--The worsted and silk and worsted manufacturers of Norwich granted the weavers an increase of wages, involving an additional expenditure of 5,000 pounds per annum.

22.--A new altar-piece, of Gothic design, the work of Mr. Copping, of St. Stephen's, Norwich, was erected in Braconash Church.

25.--Celebration of the Jubilee of George III. The Mayor (Mr. Thos. Back) and the Corporation of Norwich attended service at the Cathedral. At the conclusion of the service the civic procession returned to the Guildhall, and the garrison and Volunteers fired a _feu de joie_ on the Castle Ditches. The Mayor entertained 340 guests at dinner at St. Andrew's Hall. A baron of beef, weighing 172 lbs., surmounted by the Union flag, was brought in by four grenadiers, who bore it twice round the hall to the air of "The Roast Beef of Old England," and then placed it upon the head table. Before the company separated it was resolved "that, as a testimony of respect for the Mayor and particularly for his conduct on this day, he be requested to have his portrait painted." Numerous benevolent movements were instituted in celebration of the Jubilee. One was the relief of about thirty poor citizens, with large families, who were liable to have their persons and effects seized under an execution of the Court of Requests, for various small debts, ranging from 5s. to 40s., and the whole amounting to between 26 and 27 pounds. The day was celebrated at Yarmouth, Lynn, and other towns in the county.

28.*--"A lover of improvements requests us to hint that what has been improperly termed Cockey Lane (Norwich) for a long time, should, in consequence of the recent alterations, assume a new appellation, by terming it Market Street or some other appropriate name." (The thoroughfare here referred to is now known as London Street.)

--*"The harriers belonging to Mr. T. Thompson, of Bergh Apton, had last week one of the severest and longest chases they have yet experienced. Mr. Dyke's famous horse died in the field long before the death of the hare, and three other capital horses were very badly knocked up at the same time. Only a few of the most dashing sportsmen could keep within sight of the hounds."

29.--Died, at Earlham Hall, in his 60th year, Mr. John Gurney. His remains were interred on November 3rd at the Gildencroft burial ground, Norwich, in the presence of an immense concourse of citizens.

NOVEMBER.