to Calais by the way of Valenciennes and Lille, and, should he have followed his plan of leaving London immediately, I may expect him to drop in every hour. He gives me a very agreeable piece of intelligence—I mean the chance of my getting a lieutenant-colonelcy in the Guards. I own I am rather anxious about it since I received his letter, for I am not very well pleased with my situation in the 9th; the return of the unfortunate major who had been so long prisoner in France has thrown me sadly into the background. At all events, whether I succeed in this instance or not, the Duke of York's kind intentions towards me are sufficiently manifested. 'I was presented last Monday at the Court by Sir Charles Stuart. The Royal Family appear to give great satisfaction among all ranks. I should think the King and Duchess d'Angoulême would gain in the affections of the people every day.' 'Paris: August 26, 1814. 'I hope to be with you before the 3rd or 4th September. I begin to grow very anxious to set footing once more upon English ground, and I need not tell you with what alacrity, I shall make my way to John Street when once on terra firma. Pray thank my friends for their congratulations whenever you have an opportunity. The Duke of York's tenderness to me on this as on every other occasion almost exceeds belief. I think I shall be allowed to spend a few weeks with you previous to joining my battalion, and upon these conditions I shall be delighted with my new quarters.' |