214 'OLD q' 



the lot of these unfortunate exiles less bitter than it 

 was. It was, however, thought that the sensitive 

 nature of these French aristocrats prevented many 

 more openly proffering assistance. 



The Duke of Queensberry did much, perhaps more 

 than many expected him to do, in assisting these un- 

 fortunate members of the nobility of France, and 

 for a considerable period — indeed, almost as long as 

 his health permitted — gave two large dinner-parties 

 a iweek, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, which mostly 

 consisted of these exiled French nobles. 



Michael Kelly, actor and theatrical manager, has 

 left us a record of his grace's tact in dealing with 

 these aristocrat emigres. Kelly long enjoyed the 

 Duke's friendship ; while probably his position at the 

 Opera House brought him into close contact with him, 

 and no doubt he was discerning enough to show him 

 a little attention, which was seldom lost on Queens- 

 berry. It is, further, refreshing to find that KeUy's 

 opinion of Queensberry's character corroborates what 

 others record of his grace. He comments on his 

 taste for music and the opera, recording that, when it 

 was fashionable for subscribers to the Opera to attend 

 rehearsals, the Duke seldom if ever missed being 

 present ; if otherwise able, no weather deterred him 

 from attending and taking his favourite seat on the 



