402 
at the Dean of Ossory’s in the Crescent ; she sang 
and played with such frightful grimaces—it was really 
alarming— 
With a head on one side and a languishing eye, 
Would kill us by looking as if she would die. 
1780. 17th May. Left Bath. 
On the 2oth April 178t he again arrived between twelve and 
one at his favourite lodgings, having been almost suffocated by 
thick clouds of dust the whole way except over Marlborough 
downs. He dined at Alfred House and found the Dr. much the 
same as at christmas, but so full of vexation that he thought of 
selling every thing and settling in America fora time. The stay 
was now very short as next day he left Bath and records that at 
the Castle at Salt Hill he had a nice dinner—soup cressy, eels 
spitchcocked, a perch, a roast fowl and asparagus, and a pancake. 
In the spring of 1782 there was again a short visit. On the 
23rd March he wrote—here I am warmly housed at Mr. 
Harford’s thanks to a lady who has decamped un- 
expectedly this day. I have the parlour, bed chamber, 
servants’ hall, and a garret for Thomas. The journey 
down had been very rough. Four strong horses could 
scarcely draw the light post chaise with but little 
baggage. On the road were passed waggons and post 
chaises laid low—not in the dust—but in the snow, 
deserted by both menand cattle. He dined at Phillott’s, 
but found Bath remarkably thin of company. Next day 
he dined with Dr. Wilson who arranged small parties 
of four and was displeased if he did not come. 
On the 5th April he left Bath. 
In the winter season of this year he was again free for his usual 
christmas trip, and was now accompanied by Miss Wilkes. Thus 
1782. Dec 22  Dined at the Castle at Speen Hill and lay there. 
23rd. Dined at Harford’s the lodgings on the South 
Parade, with Miss Wilkes and Mr. Peirce. 
