Frances Burney’s diary, 1779

Friday. Once more, my dearest Susy, I will attempt journalising, and endeavour, according to my promise, to keep up something of the kind during our absence,…

The road from Streatham hither is beautiful: Mr., Mrs., Miss Thrale, and Miss Susan Thrale, and I, travelled in a coach, with four horses, and two of the servants…

After breakfast, Mrs. and Miss Thrale took me to Widget's, the milliner and library-woman on the Steyn. After a little dawdling conversation, Captain Fuller came in…

After church we all strolled the grounds, and the topic of our discourse was Miss Streatfield. Mrs. Thrale asserted that she had a power of captivation that was…

We had at breakfast a scene, of its sort, the most curious I ever saw. The persons were Sir Philip, Mr. Seward, Dr. Delap, Miss Streatfield, Mrs. and Miss Thrale,…

While I was sitting with Mr. Thrale, in the library, Mr. Seward entered. As soon as the first inquiries were over, he spoke about what he calls our comedy, and he…

This seems a strange, unseasonable period for my undertaking, but yet, my dear daddy, when you have read my conversation with Mr. Sheridan, I believe you will agree…

On Tuesday Mr., Mrs., Miss Thrale, and “yours, ma'am, yours,” set out on their expedition. The day was very pleasant, and the journey delightful. We dined very…

We have had a visit from Dr. Delap. He told me that he had another tragedy, and that I should have it to read. He was very curious to see Mr. Cumberland, who, it…

I must now have the honour to present to you a new acquaintance, who this day dined here. Mr. B y, an Irish gentleman, late a commissary in Germany. He is between…

Last Monday we went again to the ball. Mr. B y, who was there, and seated himself next to Lady Pembroke, at the top of the room, looked most sublimely happy! He…