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26 June 1897 — Southampton | |
Saturday. 26th [June 1897]. We breakfasted at 9. Walked down to the docks where the S.W. Railway Directors’ steamer “Frederica” lay at 11—& when the excursion train from London was in we started on our way. Blanche & Vere left us & went on board the House of Lord’s steamer the “Danube”. We had a band of music on train. Had splendid luncheon—tea, dinner &c. We went down the whole line of the ships & it was a magnificent sight eno’ to make one proud of one’s country. The weather was unluckily rather overcast– After going down the lines of 4 rows of ships we took our place & anchored at one end of them. We had on board the Frederica the SWR chairman Mr Portal & a director Col. Campbell (Lord Cawdon’s brother). There were also Sir Douglas Galton, Sir Edward Bradford, Mr Burnand (of Punch) & Mrs Sam Bircham. My brother had invited Mr & Mrs Burchell & a Mrs Hansard. About 5 we returned to Southampton to land those who did not wish to remain to see the illuminations & took others on board. Blanche & Vere came from the Danube & brought Lionel Guest they stayed with us, but Blanche not feeling well she went to the hotel & to bed. I had a talk with Burnand who, an old friend of my brother’s was very pleasant. Sir E. Bradford was introduced to me & I was glad to congratulate him on the success of the police regulations on Jubilee Day. He is a small gentle little man with a pleasant smile & a manner which would not lead one to believe he was so clever. It was some time before it drew dark eno’ for the illuminations & it was not till 10 o’cl when a gun was fired to give the signal & every ship was outlined with electric lights. The effect was magical & out of the darkness suddenly appeared a fairy fleet. Then a salute was fired all down the lines as the P. of Wales passed but this we hardly saw as our old chairman Portal was tired & anxious to get back to London & would not let the “Frederica” watch. It was observed today & much commented on, that with the Royal Standard the German flag of the Empress Frederick was hoisted, she being on board with her brother. We were all tired & glad to get to bed on landing at Southampton. Arthur, Rhuvon & Vere slept on board the steamer—there being no room to be had at the hotel. | |
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