1806

Thomas Beddoes to James Watt Jr, 20 January 1806

Dear Sir

In adversity it has sometimes been found a consolation that the sufferings have not been deserved – In the public calamities that have been approaching visibly for some time & are now perhaps near at hand, I hope you will have this consolation. In the three glorious wars in which we have been last engaged the rust seems to have been gathering & spreading over the country. In the American war those who were against the minister were at least not disgraced by the condition of their partners in opinion – In the first coalition war against the French, a summons to consider of a petition ag^t Pitt & Grenville collected few but sansculottes – But in this present most unnecessary & impolitic contest, the delirium has been nearly universal – the national phrenzy having risen for above 30 years by a steady gradation –

For my part, I have never compounded a moment with the adversaries of Pitt – firmly believing that every scheme must fail in the hands of so tried & approved a bungler in statesmanship. Nor did I give a moment’s credit to his bulletins –

I am afraid shame & the effects of drunken debauchery will withdraw this detestable wretch from disgrace & prevent the wreck of the country from being [MS obscured]

You are a great admirer of Sterne – a friend is endeavouring to collect what particulars may yet survive in the memory of men concerning this remarkable genius – C^d you contribute in any way to this end? – That is, have you heard any authentic anecdotes of him or do you know those who have – I am D^r Sir yrs truly

Thomas Beddoes

20 Jan. 1806

Address: James Watt Esq Junior / Soho / Birmingham
Endorsement: Dr Beddoes / Bristol 20 Jan^y 1806 // Political reflections &c
MS: LoB MS 3219/6/02/B/81