The Mary Hamilton Papers : Letter from Charlotte Margaret Gunning to Mary Hamilton

Digby (née Gunning), Charlotte Margaret

The Mary Hamilton Papers

<p style='text-align: justify;'>Letter from Charlotte Gunning to Mary Hamilton, relating to the recovery of George III's health. Gunning writes of her misery during his illness: 'I only remember the dreadful three or 4 Months that are over as a horrid dream from which thank God I have awakened, I trust for ever [...] it was miserable to exist at that time'. She recalls that the King's enemies used 'indecent & inhuman language', which was 'irritating & oppressiv[e] to the last degree'. She writes that 'this dear & good King' is now better than ever. He is 'equal to business as a proof of the strength of his mind & nerves'. He has heard of the Duke of York's conduct during his illness, but even this has not caused a relapse.</p><p style='text-align: justify;'>Despite having a cold, Gunning reports that she has attended two suppers at the French Ambassador's residence, and he is going to give a ball. The Gunnings are to give two balls, after which she intends to retreat to Richmond 'to enjoy a little comfort and quiet'. She writes about her many sources of 'misery or at least disquiet', in particular her brother's state of health: he has a 'slow fever & looks the picture of death'. She has been reading a great deal of German literature. health.</p><p style='text-align: justify;'>Original reference No. 10.</p>