Chapter V: Introduction: 1 (4)

"A change is about to take place in the Naval Uniform. _Epaulets_
are to be worn--two by Flag Officers, and these to mark their
rank; two likewise by Post Captains, demonstrative of their rank;
one, on the right shoulder, by Masters, and Commanders, and one
on the left by Lieutenants."--(_Times, June 5, 1795._)

* * * * *

"The City of London has now made up its quota of 5704 Seamen,
under the Act which laid an embargo on all outward bound vessels,
until 20,000 men were raised for the use of the Navy. Among this
number are about 1600 able seamen, who count each for two
ordinary seamen. The expenses of raising them in London, are
found to be much more moderate than the men raised in the country
ports."--(_Times, Sept. 24, 1795._)

* * * * *

"One _Samuel Caradise_, who had been committed to the House of
Correction, in Kendal, and there confined as a vagabond, until
put on board a King's ship, agreeable to the late Act, sent for
his wife, the evening before his intended departure. He was in a
cell, and she spoke to him through the iron door. After which, he
put his hand underneath, and she with a mallet, and chissel,
concealed for the purpose, struck off a finger and thumb, to
render him unfit for His Majesty's service."--(_Times, Nov. 3,
1795._)

* * * * *

"All superfluous ornaments to the heads, and sterns, of King's
ships are, we understand, in future to be discontinued. Instead
of a figure at the head, a _scroll_ is to be substituted, and the
sterns are to be as plain as possible."--(_Times, Sept. 9,
1796._)

* * * * *

"The Navy Board have given orders, that ships of war shall be
ornamented with carved work at their heads, and sterns, as
formerly, which mode, some months since, had been
suspended."--(_Times, Oct. 6, 1797._)

* * * * *

"Anecdote of Captain Drury of the 'Powerful.'

"About an hour before the action with the Dutch Fleet, he
assembled his men, and thus addressed them:--'You are a set of
damned, blackguard, mutinous, rascals, and you know I think so of
you all: we shall soon see whether you have any courage: I have
only this to say to you, you see the Dutch ship that we shall
soon be along-side: if you don't silence her in 40 minutes, I
shall know what to think of you.--Now return to your quarters.'
Turning to the Master, he said, 'Do you take care that these
rascals, may not have to complain that they were not near
enough.' In 20 minutes the Dutch ship struck her colours, and the
'Powerful' bore away to assist the 'Venerable.' After the action,
the Captains of the fore-castle came aft, and asked Capt. Drury
if he still considered them a rascally set? 'No,' said Capt. D.,
'your behaviour has perfectly satisfied me.' 'Will you then shake
hands?' said the men, which he did most heartily, and assured
them that he should never reproach them again for what had
passed, and would, on his part, entirely forget that anything had
ever happened. They then gave him three cheers, and, now, Capt.
Drury is almost idolized by the crew."--(_Times, Nov. 16, 1797._)

* * * * *

"The French Government has ordered 16 sail of the line, 18
frigates, and 12 ships of war of a smaller size to be built. Good
news this for Old England! It saves us the trouble and expense of
building them ourselves, as they are sure to find their way into
our ports."--(_Times, Nov. 26, 1798._)

* * * * *

"Lord Camelford.

"By the Leeward Island Mail, which arrived yesterday, we have
received some very circumstantial advices of what passed in the
West Indies, respecting Lord Camelford, who was tried by a Court
Martial, on the 13th of January last, at Fort Royal Bay, for the
murder of Lieut. Peterson, and acquitted.

"Antigua, _January 23, 1798_.

"On the 13th inst. died, at English Harbour, Charles Peterson,
Esq., first Lieutenant of H.M. ship _Perdrix_. This event was
occasioned by a dispute between the deceased, and Lord Camelford,
upon the right of commanding at English Harbour. Lord Camelford
commanded H.M. sloop-of-war the _Favourite_, by virtue of an
order, or warrant, from Admiral Harvey; and Mr. Peterson, though
an older Lieutenant than Lord Camelford, had lately served on
board that ship under his command, but, having been removed to
the _Perdrix_, and Lord Camelford not having a commission as
Master, and Commander, Mr. Peterson, being then at English
Harbour, supposed himself to be the Commanding Officer, and,
under that idea, issued some orders to Lord Camelford, which were
answered by other orders from Lord C. to Mr. P. Upon Mr.
Peterson's refusal to obey these orders, a Lieutenant with a
party of Marines were sent to put him under arrest, and Mr. P.
prepared for resistance, and ordered the crew of the _Perdrix_ to
arm in his defence. But, before any conflict took place, Lord
Camelford arrived, went up to Mr. P., demanded if he would obey
his orders, or not, and, upon being answered in the negative, he
immediately shot him dead upon the spot. An inquest was taken by
the Coroner, the next day; but the Jury, not being willing to
take upon themselves the determination of the question upon whom
the command at English Harbour had devolved, found only that the
deceased had been shot by Lord Camelford, in consequence of a
mutiny."--(_Times, April 11, 1798._)

Extract of a letter from an Officer in H.M. ship _Vengeance_, dated Antigua, February 9:--

"Lord Camelford appears to me to be a new character in his
_Class_. He is very severe in carrying on duty; seldom ties up a
man but he gets six or seven dozen lashes, which is a more severe
punishment in this country than what is produced by giving the
same number in a northern climate.

"Although his Lordship is a Master, and Commander, he makes use
of no swabs (gold shoulder knots), but still appears in a
Lieutenant's uniform. His dress is indeed extremely remarkable;
_all the hair is shaved off his head_, on which he wears a
monstrous large _Gold-laced cocked-hat_. He is dressed in a
Lieutenant's plain coat, the buttons of which are as green with
verdigrease, as the ship's bottom; and, with this, all the rest
of his dress corresponds."

* * * * *

_Extract of a private letter._

"Cronstadt, _August 2_.

"Our countrymen who have been employed at Revel, in conducting the
embarkation of the Russian troops, have been honoured with great
marks of attention from the Emperor, and his Family.

"His Imperial Majesty requested the _Nile_ lugger, in which
Captain Popham went to Petersburgh, to be brought up close to his
palace at Peterhoff, where he went on board, accompanied by only
one Nobleman. The lugger was immediately got under weigh, and,
there being a fine breeze of wind, His Majesty was highly
surprised, and gratified, at the swiftness of her sailings. After
a two hour's cruise, he was landed again at the palace, when the
lugger gave him a royal salute.

"It appears the account he gave of the English vessel had greatly
excited the curiosity of the rest of the Royal Family, as, next
day, Captain Popham was honoured with the company of the Empress,
the Emperor, Four Princesses, and Three Princes, with their
retinue, when they were, of course, treated with a sail, at which
they were highly delighted, and, with great condescension,
partook of some ship beef, and biscuit. The Emperor was
particularly attentive to everything on board the lugger,
visiting every part of her, and, when the sailors were hoisting
the sails, he insisted on helping for once, to set the sails of a
vessel belonging to his gracious Ally, and actually hauled the
rope with the men. The Empress begged that the crew would sing
'God save the King,' which was instantly complied with, to Her
Majesty's entire satisfaction.

"Captain Popham was presented by the Emperor, with an elegant
snuff-box set with diamonds, and with a valuable ring from Her
Imperial Majesty. His Majesty has likewise knighted Captain
Popham, conferring on him the Order of St. John of Jerusalem.
Lieutenant Pratt, Captain Popham's Assistant in this business,
has also been presented with a gold snuff-box, from the Emperor,
and a handsome gold watch and chain, from the Empress."--(_Times,
August 28, 1799._)

Was the under-mentioned lady the veritable heroine of the ballad of "Billy Taylor?"

"There is at present in the Middlesex Hospital, a young, and
delicate female, who calls herself Miss T--lb--t, and who is said
to be related to some families of distinction; her story is very
singular:--At an early period of her life, having been deprived
by the villany of a trustee, of a sum of money bequeathed her by
a deceased relation of high rank, she followed the fortunes of a
young Naval officer, to whom she was attached, and personated a
common sailor before the mast, during a cruise in the North Seas.
In consequence of a lover's quarrel, she quitted the ship and
assumed for a time the military character: but her passion for
the sea prevailing, she returned to her favourite element, did
good service, and received a severe wound, on board Earl St.
Vincent's ship, on the glorious 14th of February, and again bled
in the cause of her country, in the engagement off Camperdown. On
this last occasion her knee was shattered, and an amputation is
likely to ensue. This spirited female, we understand, receives a
pension of £20, from an illustrious Lady, which is about to be
doubled." (_Times, Nov. 4, 1799._)

In 1793, the war with France, which was, on and off, to last so long, was an accomplished fact--and one of the first notices thereof, at least, pictorially, makes fun of the good intentions of the patriotic ladies of England, towards the personal comforts of the army.

Men were most urgently wanted--but it had hardly come to the following:--

"Major Hanger has made a proposal to Government, rather of a
singular nature, to raise a corps of men, from among the
convicts. He has received his answer, that, at present,
Government can give no countenance to his application." But it
did come.--(_Times, March 23, 1793._)

* * * * *

"We have already mentioned that a number of convicts in Newgate,
under sentence of transportation, have within the last few days,
been permitted to enter into marching regiments. The crown
debtors in the various prisons, have received similar
offers."--(_Times, Oct. 9, 1795._)

* * * * *

"The French Emigrants, who are to serve in the legion now
assembling at Jersey, have received orders to keep themselves
ready, at a short notice, to repair to their destinations. About
400, have enlisted in town, and between 500, and 600, at
_Jersey_."--(_Times, Jan. 29, 1794._)

Here is a very early Notice of Volunteers:--

"We are happy to hear that the Grand Juries of the different
counties, intend to recommend the forming Volunteer Companies, to
augment the _Militia_. The Grand Jury, at Reading, greatly
approved this measure, and the sum of 14, or £1500, has already
been subscribed, at that place, for carrying it into
effect."--(_Times, March 8, 1794._)

* * * * *

"The following are the terms for raising Independent Companies.
For a Company, a Lieutenant on full pay is to raise fifty men,
including three corporals, to be allowed five guineas levy money,
and the pay of three serjeants, and two drummers, during the
levy, and to receive £150 from the successor to his lieutenancy.
A Lieutenant on half pay, to raise the like number, but to be
allowed eight guineas levy-money. For a Lieutenancy, an Ensign on
full pay is to raise twenty men, including a corporal, and to be
allowed five guineas levy-money with the pay of a sergeant, and a
drummer, during the levy. An Ensign on half-pay, to raise the
like number, but to be allowed seven guineas
levy-money."--(_Times, March 7, 1794._)

* * * * *

"The following, we understand to be the heads of the plan to be
proposed for the consideration of the Lords Lieutenants of the
different counties, for the internal defence of the Kingdom.

"1st. The Militia is to be augmented by Volunteer Companies, or
by an additional number of privates to each company, in the
option of His Majesty.

"2ndly. Volunteer Companies are to be formed in particular towns:
in those particularly situated on the sea coast, for purposes of
local defence.

"3rdly. A certain number of soldiers for each Regiment: to act as
pioneers, as well as persons in different parishes, and
districts, not attached immediately to the Militia, to act in the
same capacity: and certain places to be appointed for their
rendezvous, particularly upon the sea coast; but these to be
ready to assist the regular forces upon every emergency.

"4thly. Volunteer Troops of Fencible Cavalry are to be raised,
consisting of from 50, to 80, men per troop, which are liable to
serve only during the war, and within the Kingdom: the Officers
are to have temporary rank only, and are not to be entitled to
half pay: arms, clothing, and accoutrements, to be furnished by
the Government, but the levy-money to be found by the persons
raising such troops, or troops, as also the horses; for the
horses, however, they are to be allowed the Government contract
price. The person who, upon the above terms, raises two troops,
is to have the temporary rank of Major; he who raises four, that
of Lieutenant Colonel; and he who raises six, that of Colonel.

"Fifthly, Bodies of Cavalry are, besides, to be raised within
particular districts, or counties, to consist of the Gentlemen
and Yeomanry, or such persons as they shall recommend, according
to a plan to be approved of by the King, or by the Lords
Lieutenant, under authority from His Majesty; the Officers are to
receive Commissions from His Majesty, and the Muster Rolls are
also to be approved of by His Majesty, or by the Lords
Lieutenant, at particular periods to be hereafter fixed; no levy
money is to be given, and the horses are to be provided by the
Gentry or Yeomanry who compose the particular corps; the arms and
accoutrements, are, however, to be supplied at the public
expense. Such corps are to be exercised only at particular times,
fixed by warrant from His Majesty, or by the approbation of the
Lords Lieutenant. They are to be liable to be embodied, or called
out of their respective counties, only by special direction from
His Majesty, in case of actual appearance of invasion; and to be
liable to be called upon by order from His Majesty, or by the
Lords Lieutenant, or Sheriff of the county, to act within the
county, or in the adjacent counties, for the suppression of riots
and tumults. In either case, they are to receive pay as cavalry,
and are to be liable to the provisions of the Mutiny
Bill."--(_Times, Mar. 13, 1794._)

* * * * *

_Qualifications._--"The officers of the London Militia, according
to the Bill now in the House of Lords, are to be qualified
according to the Act of the 26th George III. Cap. 107, Sec. 8.

Real or Personal.

Field Officers £300 £5,000
Captains 150 2,500
Lieutenants 30 750
Ensign 20 400

One Moiety in the City, the other in any part of the Kingdom
seised of an estate, either in law, or equity, the claim or grant
whereof was originally made for 20 years, of the same annual
amount, to be a qualification."--(_Times, June 26, 1794._)

* * * * *

"An extraordinary circumstance lately happened to a sheriff's
officer, in the neighbourhood of Covent Garden. Hot with _juniper
berry_, not the _Tuscan Grape_, he had an idea of beating the
_Carmagnols_; and in consequence, going to a recruiting party in
Bow Street, said he would _enlist_. The Captain of the party gave
him a shilling, in the usual phrase of _His Majesty's name_:--he
said he must have more:--a guinea was given him in His Majesty's
name, to serve so and so; he took it, and departed. The matter
thus rested for five or six days, when he came back to return the
money, which he said he had taken _in a frolic_. The money was
refused. He said he would be revenged, and, having a writ some
days after, against one of the enlisted recruits, he went to the
rendezvous house to execute it, where the Captain took him up as
a _deserter_, and sent him to the _Savoy Prison_, from whence he
has been released by a _Habeas Corpus_, contrary, as military men
say, to the law by which the military are governed. This will
occasion a most curious contest."--(_Times, June 30, 1794._)

* * * * *

"Something like a _legal mutiny_ has, it seems, already arisen in
the _long robed_ Corps of Volunteers. By a clause in their
_engrossed agreement_, every Member neglecting to attend the
regular _drill_, is _bound_ to pay a _fine of three shillings and
four-pence_, towards purchasing _parchment_ to new head their
drums. Against this _penalty_ being _levied_, some of the
absentees have _demurred_, on the _plea_ that the _instrument_ is
not _valid_ in _law_, from its not being _drawn_ on a _six
shilling stamp_."--(_Times, July 17, 1794._)

* * * * *

"A melancholy accident happened yesterday, about one o'clock, at
the Recruiting Office, Angel Court, Charing Cross. A sergeant
having kidnapped a man, for the better securing him, had
confined him in a back-garret at the top of the house, after he
had cut off his hair, to disfigure him, and, tying his hands
behind him, and locking the door, left him by himself. By some
means, the man got his hands loosened, and chose rather to risk
his life by jumping from the window, than suffer himself to be
any longer in their clutches; accordingly, he attempted to pitch
upon a leaded roof, which was about half way to the bottom, but,
unfortunately, jumping short, he fell back, and his head falling
against the wall, his skull was fractured in such a shocking
manner, that he died in about an hour afterwards. The populace
were so much enraged at this shocking enormity, which we are
sorry to believe is too often repeated, that they almost
demolished the Recruiting Office. The mob had increased to so
great a degree at ten o'clock last night, that it was found
necessary to call out a party of the Horse Guards, for the
protection of the neighbourhood."--(_Times, Aug. 16, 1794._)

This was a serious riot. The mob at that time was peculiarly excitable, and had a great deal more of its own way than it has now. So a spark only was wanted to make a flame. This was found in a rumoured case of kidnapping for the army; impressing for the navy could be understood, because it had obtained from time immemorial, that when the king wanted men to man his war vessels, he took seamen, or fishermen, but this was something new, and must be put down, otherwise no man was safe. The truth was not scrupulously adhered to, and the print shops, ever eager to make money by pandering to the passions of the hour, published exaggerated, and heartrending pictures, of the way in which the army was recruited, and, altogether, a very pretty riot was got up.

"On Saturday morning, early, a mob again collected before Angel
Court, Charing Cross, and attacked the house from whence the
unfortunate young man had thrown himself into the street. The
populace proceeded to gut the house, throwing the furniture out
of the windows. The street was covered with feathers from the
beds which were torn to pieces: they were proceeding to demolish
an adjoining house, when the military were called in, and several
officer's detachments, both of horse, and foot, again paraded the
streets at Charing Cross. The mob having assembled again
yesterday morning, and becoming very riotous, a troop of Horse
Guards was very properly ordered out, and two or three of the
principal rioters about the King's Arms Public House, taken into
custody.

"It is some satisfaction that we have heard the Coroner's report
on the investigation of this unpleasant business. A most
respectable jury sat five hours, on Saturday night, to consider
of the verdict: and, after the most minute testimony of several
witnesses, it was proved that the young man, whose name was
_Howe_, and lived at Wandsworth, was a Lunatic, and had been
several times confined by his friends. He had himself offered to
enlist; no blame whatever attaches in this instance, to the
people of the house. We trust that this impartial enquiry will
satisfy the minds of every one, and that there will be no more
mobs."--(_Times, Aug. 18, 1794._)

* * * * *

"In consequence of a mob again assembling at Charing Cross,
yesterday evening, the Horse Guards were again called out, and
paraded the streets till midnight."--(_Times, Aug. 19, 1794._)

* * * * *

"THE RIOTS IN LONDON.

"We had flattered ourselves with the hope, that the very fair,
and public, investigation which took place on the Coroner's
Inquest, which sat on Saturday last on the body of the
unfortunate man, Howe, who threw himself out of a window of a
Recruiting House, would have satisfied every man's mind, that
Howe was a Lunatic, and had been so for many years past: and that
it was in a fit of Lunacy, that he destroyed himself. We hoped
after this investigation, all kinds of mobs would have ceased.

"We are sorry to observe, that the people are instigated to riot
by the false representations daily made in those Jacobin prints,
which are, at all times, so eager to announce, and magnify, every
public misfortune. One of these yesterday asserted, 'that a poor
woman with five children, and herself now pregnant, suspecting
the crimps had decoyed her husband into a house in Whitcomb St.,
watched it, and _by chance saw her husband chained to the
floor_.' An evening paper of yesterday, observes 'that the
guards, both horse and foot, were _as usual_, grossly insulting
inoffensive passengers,' and it concludes with a piece of advice
to these military gentlemen, 'that they are not always with
musquets, and swords, in their hands, and that the people may be
roused to resistance.' Now we know that no gentlemen could have
observed greater caution than the military have done on this
occasion: and the above remarks have no other object than to
excite riot.

"On Tuesday last, _John Kerr_ and _John Ruggle_, were committed
to Newgate for stripping a man of his cloaths. Kerr is the man
who keeps a house in Whitcomb Street, Charing Cross; which was
assailed by a mob on Tuesday night, and very much damaged. It was
owing to this riot, that the Horse Guards were again called out,
and paraded the streets, through the night, as well as yesterday,
to keep the peace.

"Six of those who were found in Kerr's house throwing the
furniture out of the windows, were taken into custody, and,
yesterday morning, were all committed to Tothill-fields
Bridewell.

"A riot also was attempted to be raised at a recruiting-office in
Tooley St., Southwark, on Tuesday night.

"Yesterday, a mob assembled before a house of the same
description, in Shoe Lane, at which several stones were thrown:
and, at length, it became so serious, that the Lord Mayor was
called upon to interpose his assistance, and attended, and, by
the interference of a few constables, the mob dispersed, but, in
the evening, the number of people continuing to increase, a party
of guards were sent from the Tower, and the Lord Mayor, at eight
o'clock, read the Riot Act. The mob, after being driven out of
Shoe Lane by the soldiers, rushed suddenly to Bride Lane, where
they broke open a house which had been employed as a
recruiting-office, and proceeded to throw the beds, and some
little furniture that remained in it, out of the windows; but,
hearing of the approach of the military, they fled, saying they
had plenty more business to do. It was reported, at the time this
paper was going to press, that the Recruiting Offices on Mutton
Hill, and Cow-Cross, near Clerkenwell Green, had likewise met a
similar fate."--(_Times, Aug. 20, 1794._)

* * * * *

"On Wednesday, the examinations closed respecting _Mrs. Hanna_,
who kept the recruiting office at Charing Cross, when she was
acquitted, no evidence being adduced to criminate her. This
acquittal has been the consequence of a very scrutinizing
investigation.

"The riots were not confined, on Wednesday night, to Fleet St.
and the neighbourhood, but extended to the Raven, in Golden Lane,
and the Sash, in Moorfields, and very much damaged the Rum
Puncheon, in Old St., and a private house in Long Lane. They
were all recruiting houses. A recruiting house, opposite Fetter
Lane, in Holborn, was completely gutted.

"Yesterday, bills were very properly stuck up in different parts
of the town, to the following purport:--'You are earnestly
requested to depart hence, and not by remaining, encourage others
to stop, by which a crowd will be accumulated, and your personal
liberty may be endangered.' Parents were likewise warned from
suffering their children to appear abroad.

"It is greatly to be apprehended that there exists a scheme to
raise mobs, and disturb the peace of the metropolis. On Friday,
and Saturday, during the riots at Charing Cross, great pains were
taken to persuade the people, that there were subterraneous
passages from the houses to the Thames, and that men were sent
off in the night. On Monday, and Tuesday, hand-bills were
distributed, telling the people that men, and children, were
kidnapped, and sent off to Canada, and elsewhere. Nothing can be
more notoriously false than such assertions."--(_Times, Aug. 22,
1794._)

* * * * *

"On Thursday night there was an attempt made to raise a riot in
St. George's Fields, at the Milk House, the corner of the London
Road, the master of which is a temporary Serjeant to recruit for
some of the volunteer corps; but by the spirited behaviour of the
recruits, soldiers and light horse volunteers, in that quarter,
the incendiaries did not proceed to acts of violence. It was
evidently apparent that the mob was led on by persons above the
common rank, whose sole aim is, if possible, under the idea of
some pretended grievance, to raise a general riot in the
metropolis. On Thursday, several persons were committed to the
New Compter, by the Lord Mayor, for being concerned in the riot
in Shoe Lane; and six men were committed to Newgate, from the
Public Office, in Worship Street, for being concerned in the
riots at the Sash, in Moorfields, and at the Black Raven, in
Golden Lane.

"In the course of the same day, several attempts of a similar
nature were made in different quarters of the town, which were
prevented, however, by the appearance of the regular military,
and, in some places, by the City Horse Volunteers, who have been
out on duty every day. The recruiting offices in Drury Lane, and
at Shoreditch, were attempted to be demolished. As the
continuance of these riotous proceedings is of the most
dangerous nature, we trust that some more decisive steps will be
taken, by Government, for their suppression."--(_Times, Aug. 23,
1794._)

* * * * *

"The activity of the Magistrates, and the arrival of the Oxford
Blues, to assist the Civil Power, caused the mobs to be cautious
of appearing on Saturday. They found that it was determined to
fire upon them if they did not desist; and, therefore, they
thought personal safety the best policy. A very rigid, and
severe, investigation will, no doubt, be made into the practice
of _crimping_, and a stop put to the disgraceful manner of
_recruiting_."--(_Times, Aug. 26, 1794._)

* * * * *

"Old Bailey.

"Five men were indicted for a riot, on the 20th of last month, at
a Public House, known by the name of the Old Sash, in Moorfields.
After a trial of five hours, the Jury found all the
prisoners--_Not Guilty_. _John Osborn_ and _R. Piggott_ were
indicted for riotously assembling on the 20th August last, in
Golden Lane, and beginning to demolish the dwelling house of
_Hugh Case_. _Piggott_ found guilty, sentence, _Death_. _Osborn_,
not Guilty. _J. Strutt_, was afterwards tried for beginning to
demolish the dwelling house of W. Ostiff, in Johnson's Court,
Charing Cross, and, after a trial of several hours, was found
guilty, sentence _Death_. Antony Purchase, and R. Warnbeck, were
next tried, for beginning to pull down the house of R. Lazell,
and found guilty, sentence _Death_. They were both of them
strongly recommended, by the Jury, to mercy, on account of their
youth, and the goodness of their character."--(_Times, Sept. 22,
1794._)

* * * * *

"Sunday evening, an affray happened in Whitcomb Street, between a
recruiting party, and the mob, on account of the former
attempting to trepan a young man, in a state of intoxication. The
windows of the recruiting-house were broke, and the affair, which
for some time bore an alarming aspect, was at last terminated by
the arrival of a party of the Horse Guards." (_Times, Dec. 23,
1794._)

* * * * *

RIOT IN ST. GEORGE'S FIELDS.

"However expedient it is to recruit our Land Forces, and strongly
as it is requisite to make our Navy respectable, and superior to
the enemy, yet, in attaining these essential points, the
constitutional liberty of the subject should be preserved. It is,
therefore, with a degree of regret, we mention that the power of
enlisting men for the Land Service, in particular, has been
entrusted to persons who have abused the confidence reposed in
them, and who have used the most unjustifiable means to
accomplish their purposes. As an instance, among others that have
previously been brought before the public, we are authorised,
from the circumstances of the case, to state, that on Friday
last, a very great mob assembled in _London Road_, leading from
the Obelisk, in St. George's Fields, to the Elephant and Castle,
at Newington Butts, and, having intimation that a number of men
were there imprisoned by a certain description of _Crimps_, they
attacked the house where these persons were confined, demolished
the windows, and released eighteen men, who were chained together
by hand-cuffs, and other iron ligaments.

"The Borough Magistrates, on hearing of this outrage, immediately
sent down their officers: and the _Acting Recruiting Serjeant_
being taken into custody, he was, after a short examination,
committed to the New Gaol. The circumstances which led to the
discovery of this imprisonment, was, that of kidnapping a
pot-boy, who, before he was chained down, contrived to break a
pane of glass in the drawing-room window (for the house was a
private one, and elegantly furnished), from whence he cried out
'Murder!' This alarmed the neighbourhood, and, as it had been
suspected by them, that persons were illegally confined there,
the doors, and windows, were soon demolished, and the prisoners
liberated. The Serjeant, and his crew, had two women of the town
genteelly dressed up for the purpose of inveigling young men into
the house, which they styled their lodgings, where the deluded
were instantly hand-cuffed, and, about three or four o'clock, in
the morning, sent off in coaches, hired for the purpose, to the
country. On Saturday, several more youths, who were confined in
other parts of the Fields, were released by the Magistrates,
amidst the plaudits of a numerous multitude of
spectators."--(_Times, Jan. 12, 1795._)

* * * * *

"On Tuesday night some disturbance happened in Charles Streets,
Westminster, occasioned by some crimps having inveigled a boy
from his parents, and lodged him in a house there. The mob broke
the windows of it, and the boy was rescued. We have every reason
to hope that the most severe punishment will be inflicted on the
crimps, Government having taken every possible pains to prevent
such abuses."--(_Times, April 16, 1795._)

* * * * *

"Yesterday evening, about seven o'clock, a very considerable mob
assembled about Charing Cross, and, under the pretence of
delivering a man from the Crimping House, they attacked the
house, which is up a little court near Northumberland House, and
threw all the furniture out of the windows. Charing Cross was
covered with feathers. The mob became so numerous, and
disorderly, that it was found necessary to call in the assistance
of the Horse Guards: and the Riot Act was twice read by a
Magistrate. The street was much thronged, and the tumult
continued, when this Paper went to press: although there had been
no other act of serious mischief. No one can detest the business
of Crimping more than we do: but we have strong reasons to
believe that this is very frequently made a stalking horse with
the factious, to provoke a riot."--(_Times, July 12, 1795._)

* * * * *

"A Mob collected themselves again, last night, at Charing Cross,
when, after making every one pull off their hats, as they passed,
they proceeded to Mr. Pitt's, in Downing St., and broke several
windows in his house; but, the Guards being immediately called
out, and appearing in sight, very soon dispersed them.

"The Mob, afterwards, went over Westminster Bridge, and paraded
to St. George's-fields, where they attacked the _Royal George_
Public-house, near the Obelisk, and threw all the furniture of it
into the road, and there burnt it. They gutted another
Recruiting house, in Lambeth-Road, and, afterwards, made a
bonfire of the furniture. This was mistaken by many, to be houses
on fire. There were some of the Mob who kept watch on the outside
of the houses, to give notice of the arrival of the military, who
did not come till after the furniture of these two houses were
consumed. The Mob compelled the inhabitants of the houses in the
neighbourhood, to put up lights.

"The Riot at Charing Cross, on Sunday night, was begun by a very
few persons who wished for mischief, and called out the words,
Crimps, and Kidnappers! The damage was done almost
instantaneously, and the villains escaped, leaving a numerous
assembly of people, who were only drawn together by an idle
curiosity, on the Surrey-road, near the Circus. Yesterday
morning, however, about seven o'clock, it was assailed by a mob,
and, notwithstanding it was well defended, and that the door was
plated with iron, it was forced, and the prisoners rescued. Last
night the mob again assembled about half past eight o'clock, near
the Obelisk, in St. George's fields, where they gutted another
Recruiting Office, and threw the furniture into the road, of
which they made a bonfire. At first, the mob consisted only of
about one hundred men, but the flames soon attracted great
numbers. About nine, the Horse Guards arrived, and soon dispersed
the crowd. We wish they had come sooner, as it is extremely
injudicious to the public interest, that such indecent sights
should be repeated. It was very well known that a Mob meant to
assemble, and, of course, the Military should have been at hand,
to meet it. Several persons were much hurt, in not being able to
disperse soon enough, which ought to be a warning not to mingle
in such a crowd. The Duchess of Gloucester, who was at the
Circus, with her daughter, was escorted home by a party of
horse."--(_Times, July 14, 1795._)

* * * * *

"The Riots continued on Monday evening in St. George's Fields,
until the Military arrived to disperse the mob. Several persons
were taken into custody, and lodged in the
watch-house."--(_Times, July 15, 1795._)

The way in which the patronage in the Army was managed, was a crying shame--children in their cradles had Cornetcies presented to them, and their promotion went on several steps before they left school. We hear of the natural consequence, in the following extract from the _Times, 4th Jan. 1794_:--

"We are extremely sorry that our public duty should call upon us
to make any unpleasant remarks on the officers of our Army
abroad, but repeated letters from the Continent, received by all
descriptions of persons, agree in saying that there is a great
want of Subordination among our troops. We shall not enter into
particulars on this subject, as our only object is, that this
observation should meet the eye of the Commander-in-Chief, and
other General Officers, and that they should take the matter into
their serious consideration. The evil is certainly increased by
having so many young men introduced into the Army, and placing
them over the heads of veteran Soldiers."

* * * * *

"The scandalous abuses which have been so often, and so justly,
complained of, as detrimental to the public service, of children
being taken from school, and appointed Officers, cannot be too
soon remedied, though it will be a Herculean task to cleanse the
Augean stable. In mentioning the following circumstance, we have
certainly no kind of ill-will towards the party concerned; but it
is a fact, that a child, _not fourteen years of age_, is now
under orders for embarkation at Plymouth, who has been taken from
school, to join his regiment at _St. Domingo_, as Captain!!! It
is impossible for any man, who has the interest of his country at
heart, to hear of such abuses without commenting on them with the
utmost severity. The fault is not with Government, but is
attached to the custom which prevails in officering the army; a
custom which cannot be too soon corrected."--(_Times, Feb. 10,
1795._)

* * * * *

"The Duke of York has ordered circular letters to be sent round
to the Colonels of Regiments, desiring a return to be immediately
made to his Office, of the number of Captains in each Regiment,
under TWELVE years of age; and of Lieutenant Colonels under the
age of EIGHTEEN!!! The very scandalous abuses that have, of late,
crept into the mode of officering the army, are such, as to have
demanded a very serious enquiry: for numberless are the evils
that have resulted from it, besides that it has given so much
disgust to veteran Officers, whose fortunes were not adequate to
the purchase of rank. Various are the instances of boys having
been taken from school, to take the command of Companies of
Regiments."--(_Times, March 20, 1795._)

* * * * *

"Over a Warehouse for fashionable dresses, in Fleet St., is
written up 'Speculum modorum,' or, the mirror of the fashions;
and several young Gentlemen of the Guards are actually learning
Latin, in order to understand them. Others have sent for the
Alphabet, in gingerbread, as preliminary education."--(_Times,
Oct. 27, 1795._)

* * * * *

"An alteration, we understand, is shortly to take place in the
uniform of the officers of all the regiments of the line. The
present full dress coat is to be abandoned in favour of a very
short one, without any lace, or lappels, which the officers are
always to wear when on duty, but discretionally at other
times."--(_Times, Nov. 16, 1797._)

* * * * *

"A number of _baby_ officers have threatened to sell out of the
Guards. They purchased for the privilege of wearing handsome
regimentals, and the new uniform they say is so ugly."--(_Times,
Nov. 20, 1797._)

* * * * *

"Some of the sucking Colonels of the Guards have expressed their
dislike of the short skirts. They say they feel as if they were
going to be flogged."--(_Times, Nov. 21, 1797._)

Kelsey's was a famous fruiterer's, &c., in St. James's Street, and we are here presented with one of the boy officers, whose legs cannot reach the ground, and who has not yet lost his childish predilection for "Sugar Plums." As a foil to him is given Colonel Burch, of the Royal Household Troops--who is actively engaged in demolishing Ice Creams.

The following paragraph tells a sad tale:--

"The late order of the Cabinet for furnishing all His Majesty's
troops with bread, in the same manner as if in camp, namely, a
loaf of six pounds weight for five-pence, will, we doubt not,
have the desired effect in preventing a continuance of those
outrages, to which the military, in many parts of the kingdom,
have been compelled, by absolute want."--(_Times, April 27,
1795._)

But this order was modified, as we see.

"A new regulation has been made throughout the whole Army, that
instead of the additional allowance of Bread-Money, each Soldier
is to receive 8d. per day clear."--(_Times, Oct. 2, 1795._)

The fate of a prisoner of War is always hard, and, as a rule, they are not too luxuriously treated. When first we had large quantities of French prisoners over here, they were nearly starved, but, afterwards, their lot was much ameliorated. Probably they were better treated than our people who were imprisoned in France, for, if the following letter can be believed, they certainly were neither luxuriously housed, nor fed.

"The following is an Extract of a letter from an Officer of the
'Castor' Frigate, captured some time since, by the French, dated
_Quimper_ near Brest, Feb. 27, 1795:--

'I wrote by Lady Ann Fitzroy, which I hope you have received; we
were in a very bad state at that time: but since she has been
gone, we have been a great deal worse. They now serve out nothing
but bread, and horse-beans, for three weeks, or a month,
together: and, when they do give meat, it is but six ounces of
salt pork per man. It would make your heart ache, to see our poor
sailors, without money, without cloaths, worn down by sickness,
and emaciated to the last degree, fighting over the body of a
dead dog, which they sometimes pick up, and devour with the most
voracious appetites: and it is a fact, that the head, and pluck,
of a dog, sold for 30 sous, the other day. Such scenes as this,
was I obliged to undergo: but I am now in a house allotted for
the officers, and am rendered very comfortable by the friendship
of our second lieutenant, Mr. Hadaway. I am the only surviving
midshipman of four, who came here, belonging to our ship. I have
lost all my hair by sickness: but I live in hopes of seeing Old
England, and my friends again.'--(_Times, April 16, 1775._)

* * * * *

"Several persons escaped from prison, bear the strongest
testimony of praise towards Lady Ann Fitzroy, late a prisoner of
war at _Quimper_, in France, who perhaps, suffered more insults,
and bad usage, from her jailors, than any of her rank ever
suffered before: but, regardless of her own distresses, she made
it her sole business to alleviate those of her fellow-prisoners:
made shirts, and caps, for all those in need, besides purchasing
some hundreds of jackets, and trowsers, which she distributed
amongst her unfortunate countrymen, in want of cloathing. Her
Ladyship, also, every day, had a great quantity of veal, and
soup, dressed, to distribute amongst the sick. Her unparalleled
benevolence saved the lives of hundreds."--(_Times, June 12,
1795._)

* * * * *

"TWENTY GUINEAS BOUNTY.

"Gray's Inn, in the county of Middlesex, 13th Dec., 1796.

"To all able-bodied MEN, willing to serve in His Majesty's
Army.--The Hon. Society of Gray's Inn will give Twenty Guineas,
without any deduction whatever, to any Man who shall be approved
by the Regulating Officer. No Volunteer who shall enter, as
above, can be arrested for Debt, or taken out of his Majesty's
Service, but for a criminal Matter.--Application to be made any
Day, from the Hour of 10, till 3 o'clock, at the Steward's
Office, Gray's Inn.

"Persons enrolled are not liable to serve more than one Calendar
Month after the end of the present War."--(_Times, Dec. 17,
1796._)

* * * * *

"At the Roscommon Assizes, Lord Viscount Dillon was cast in a
verdict of £60, for illegally confining a poor mechanic, a
fortnight underground, with a view of _forcing_ him to
enlist."--(_Times, Sept. 20, 1797._)

* * * * *

"On Saturday last, the sentence of a Regimental Court Martial was
carried into execution, on a private soldier, belonging to the
2nd Battalion of the Breadalbane Fencibles, now in the Castle of
Edinburgh. He received 1000 lashes, and was drummed out of the
Battalion, for having, while on sentry at Leith, on the night of
the 15th of September last, loaded his piece, and fired the same
into the house of an inhabitant, the Civil Magistrates having
delivered him over to the Military Law."--(_Times, Oct. 7,
1797._)

The sale of Commissions is here openly acknowledged, although it was not allowed, _vide_ the two following advertisements in the same paper (1798, Jan. 15):--

"Militia.--Any young Gentleman wishing for an Ensignsy in a
highly respectable Regiment of Militia, where he will have the
opportunity of forming the very first connections, may, on
certain conditions of honour, solely between the parties, be so
respectably introduced. The Advertiser, who is of the Church, and
of undoubted character, as will be known, means to apply this
only to a young person of some income of his own; or whose
friends would add an allowance to his pay, so as to place him
upon a more equal footing with his brother Officers, and superior
rank. On a proper behaviour, there is no doubt but that he would
soon have a Lieutenant's Commission, and it is to be considered
that at the end of the War, he will be entitled to half pay, the
same as the line. It is apprehended, too, that it might still
more peculiarly suit one who may mean to ultimately go into the
regulars, and would prefer having his first steps in the Militia.
The Advertiser, not residing in London, a letter at Messrs.
Wilson and Wright's, Walker's Court, Soho, for A. P., will be
duly honoured in the course of 2 or 3 days, provided it is signed
with real name, and address, without which it cannot be noticed.

"Marines.--A young man of respectable connections, and of the
best morals, is very anxious to be in the service of his King,
and Country, in these momentous times, and therefore ardently
intreats the patronage of any Lady or Gentleman, who has the
interest to procure him, or the power to bestow upon him, a
Lieutenancy of Marines. He does not mean to offer the insult of
any pecuniary recompence; but he will assure a greatly more
pleasing return to a benevolent mind, that of everlasting
gratitude, and the most unimpeachable conduct. The honor of a
line to F. G.," &c.

"A company in the _Guards_ has lately been sold for the enormous
sum of 8000 guineas."--(_Times, April 26th, 1796._)

Commissions in the army were notoriously sold, but one would imagine that a line would be drawn at Chaplains.

Advt.--"TO BE DISPOSED OF, A CHAPLAINCY, in a new Regiment of
Dragoons, and a Quarter-Master's Warrant, in a Regiment of
Dragoon Guards. Apply to Mr. Hawkes, No. 17
Piccadilly."--(_Times, June 9, 1795._)

* * * * *

"MILITIA INSURANCE.

Advt.--"Such persons as wish not to venture the risk of finding a
substitute, by being drawn for the Old Militia, Supplementary
Militia, and Tower Hamlets, may be secured on the following
Terms, viz. Old Militia--7s. 6d. or 10s. per annum; Supplementary
Militia £1 1s. or £1 11s. 6d.; Ditto, together, £1, 7s. 6d., or
£2 per annum; Tower Hamlets £1, or £1 10s., per annum; by Mr.
Cox, Junr., No. 36 Holborn."--(_Times, Feb. 7, 1798._)

* * * * *

"The trial of Capt. F. Arthur of the Yeoman Artillery, commenced
on Saturday, at Limerick, and terminated, on Monday, the 25th,
when he was sentenced by the Court-Martial, _to be transported
for life, and to pay a fine to the King of £5000_."--(_Times,
July 2, 1798._)

* * * * *

"Some accounts of our present Volunteer Associations will, no
doubt, when read a few years hence, excite no small degree of
surprise. Of this class are the following paragraphs. 'The
Reverend Doctor F---- gave the word of command.'--'Counsellor
G---- led his detachment to the charge with uncommon spirit and
vigour.'--'An Anthem was sung by Captain-Lieutenant _Sale_,'
&c."--(_Times, Sept. 5, 1798._)

* * * * *

"Lewes.--Last week the Volunteers for regular Service from the
Derby, Westminster, North Gloucester, and Surrey regiments of
Militia, marched into this town, from their respective stations,
on their routes to the grand depot, at Horsham. The large
bounties which these men have received, enable them to keep up a
scene of drunkenness, and insubordination, which it is very
difficult to restrain. After parade here, on Saturday evening,
Sir Joseph Mawbey, and other Officers, commanding the Surrey
Volunteers, were compelled to have recourse to their drawn
swords, to enforce order, and maintain their command, which was
for some time powerfully resisted, on their ordering a man to the
guard-house. And, on dismissing the parade, yesterday evening, a
similar disturbance took place. No swords were then drawn, but
the clamour demanded the interference of General Hulse, who, in
consequence, ordered out a piquet guard of infantry, and a
patrole of horse, by which tranquillity was restored, and
preserved. Others who have passed through this town, in their
drunken frolics, distinguished themselves by swallowing
Bank-notes between slices of bread and butter, and lighting their
pipes with them, to the no small advantage of the
Bankers."--(_Times, July 31, 1799._)

SOCIAL ECONOMY.

Under this head are placed many matters which could scarcely be classified.

Take, for instance, the series of groups copied from a long picture of the "Installation Supper, as given at the Pantheon, by the Knights of the Bath, on the 26th of May 1788."

In looking at this series, we must never lose sight of the fact, that, here, we are getting a peep at _haut ton_--none of your common folk--and, if the picture be a true one, they must have been contented with the roughest accommodation. Hard seats, plain tables, with no Plate, nor floral decorations, no napkins; Knives and forks brandished in a most reckless, and uncouth manner; an utter disregard for the proprieties of the table, even to drinking the gravy out of a plate; and intoxication, in its various phases, passing, seemingly, unchallenged. A tankard of beer admitted to such a banquet, and two people sharing the same "dish of tea," are all, to us, astounding revelations of the social manners of our grandfathers.

Sir F Johnston & Lady.
Lord Bathurst.
Major Topham.]

From the following we get a curious glimpse of the Social economy, of the times--a phase of thinking which would scarcely do nowadays:--

"In a complicated machine, any of the inferior parts getting out
of order, will soon obstruct the whole: and, conceiving such may
be the case with public society, we are led to make a few
observations on some improprieties which occur in the present
day.

"The wages given to servants have increased during the last 10
years, more than for 30, or perhaps 40, years before: and the
misfortune is, that dissipation, and want of morals, have also
much increased, particularly among manufacturing labourers, who
now have got, in many places, only to work three, or four, days
in the week, and to be drunk the remaining time, leaving their
wives, and children, neglected, and in rags.

"As to household servants, the accommodation offices for hiring
of them, have had the worst effect. They make them indifferent
about keeping their places; lure them on with false hopes, and
often before a servant gets fixed, they, and the pawnbroker, put
them under difficulties.

"Travelling expences, by the profusion in the perquisites given
to waiters, post boys, &c., have become enormous, and their
attention is less; but, if those who give in that way, were to
consider the injury they do the public, and of how little use it
is to those who receive it, they would certainly think such money
so squandered away, would have been better bestowed, if applied
to some public charity, or left for the poor of the parish.

"Increase of trade, and wealth, having produced an increase of
luxury, and made the necessaries of life more expensive, it is
proper that wages should be increased: but yet not beyond the
bounds of proportion; for it will be found in those manufacturing
occupations, in which labourers get the most money, they are the
most disorderly, continually combining together to leave their
work, unless their masters consent to increase their wages, and
which only proves a temporary compromise, till they have an
opportunity of making a further demand. On the contrary, where
less wages are given, we shall find the people more happy, and
contented, their wives more attended to, and their children
brought up with more religion, and better morals."--(_Times,
Sept. 5, 1794._)

* * * * *

"To the CONDUCTOR of the TIMES.