The Mary Hamilton Papers : Letter from Jean Cathcart (née Hamilton) to Charles Hamilton

Cathcart (née Hamilton), Jane, Lady

The Mary Hamilton Papers

<p style='text-align: justify;'>Letter from Jean Cathcart to her brother, Charles Hamilton, wishing him and his family a happy New Year. She writes that she 'will not reproach' him for not having written to her. Cathcart describes her life in St Petersburg, the food she eats, and the house in which she lives, which is on one of the 'finest streets' in the area, and that her summer residence has been let to them by the Grand Duke. She reports that the cold, dry air of the city has benefited the health of Lord Cathcart. She continues with news of her children and notes that she spares nothing for their education. Cathcart also writes on the Russian Empress [Catherine 'the Great' (1729-1796)], noting that she is 'the finest woman' and that she finds her 'very brilliant'. She writes on her military campaigns, noting that she met with great success in her first campaign but '[t]hey speak here upon these victories with the utmost moderation'. The letter concludes with news of others acquaintances from England who are in St Petersburg, including General Fullerton. Dated at St Petersburg.</p>