1822. Departure from England.
Sept. 9th.—I returned to my house and began selecting the books and clothing I should want to take with me to Hanover, where I thought it best to go with the Michaelmas messenger.
Sept. 27th.—I had disposed of my furniture, partly by presents and partly by sale; and after settling with my landlord, &c., I left my house for Lady Herschel’s, to remain there till business should call her and my nephew to town.
Oct. 3rd.—My friends as well as myself were made easy by the arrival of my brother Dietrich, who came to fetch me.
Oct. 7th.—I took leave of Princess Augusta and all my friends and connections in Windsor.
Oct. 10th.—At 9 in the morning I left Slough with my brother D. Lady H. and my nephew followed the next day.
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Oct. 14th.—Princess Sophia Matilda sent her carriage for me to spend the day with her at Blackheath.
Oct. 16th.—I went with my brother to Mortlake to take leave of Baron Best and family; and thence we directly proceeded to Bedford Place, where all my friends were assembled, among whom I had the comfort of seeing once more my nephew’s friend, and the favourite of my dear departed brother, Mr. Babbage. He had only that day arrived from the North. I could find no opportunity for any conversation with him, but just by a pressure of the hand recommended my nephew in incoherent whispers to the continuance of his regards and friendship.
From all these sorrowing friends and connections I was obliged to take an everlasting leave, and in the few hours we were for the last time together, I was obliged to sign many papers, among which was a receipt for a half year’s legacy. I signed this with great reluctance ... but Lady H. and my nephew insisted on my taking it, according to my brother’s will. This unexpected sum has enabled me to furnish myself with many conveniences on my arrival here, of which otherwise I should have perhaps debarred myself.