2 February

From GDP/8 John Leeson

John Leeson (1803-1865) owned and rented out property in London. In his diaries, he regularly recorded a mixture of his business dealings, family news, and politics. Here, amid the usual mixture of the diarist’s home life and international affairs – in this instance the run-up to the American Civil War.

2 February 1861

An accident on the Southampton Railway – nr Guildford – Dr. Baly of Queen Ann St. Physician to Queen Victoria – who was in the train – thrown out & killed.

Earl of Guildford died at Waldershare 88 yrs age – he had been Master of St. Croix Hospital many years & rec’d a large fortune from it.

The Encyclopedia Britannica [sic] – 8^th edition – began in 1852 & now finished – I have taken it in during that period of 8 years – 24/- per issue.

Mrs. Silliy spent afternoon with us – has not been here some time – Capt. & Mrs. Palmer came to tea with Mrs. Clarke.

South Carolina State has separated from the United States – on account of its being a slave state – other slave states expected to follow – it is feared England will not have this year a supply of cotton, which she had from the slave states.