Stanlake, Nov. 7th, 1788.
My dearest Lord B.,
I have but one moment, before the post goes out, to tell you that I am this instant returned from Windsor; and find from the best authority that the King's life is unfortunately despaired of. Warren, Heberden, Baker, and Reynolds are attending. I believe the fever has settled on the brain, as there is much delirium. The Chancellor was at Windsor last night, and all the Princes of the Blood are sitting up in the next room to him. The Queen has had fits, but is better to-day.
Doubtless your situation will enable you to hear sooner and more authentically, but I could not avoid giving you myself this lamentable detail.
The Prince seems frightened, and was blooded yesterday.
Kate undertook to write in my name to Hester, instead of you and Lady B. I sincerely condole with her, and hope soon to hear a better account of her.
Ever yours most affectionately,
R. A. Neville.
LORD SIDNEY TO THE MARQUIS OF BUCKINGHAM.
(Most Private.) Whitehall, Nov. 7th, 1788.
My dear Lord,