Transcription
Extract of a Letter from Mr. ASTLEY, to a Friend of his at Plymouth Dock, dated London, Aug. 15, 1789.
“DEAR FRIEND,
“You will be surprised at receiving this from an old Comrade; but I know your goodness will excuse my not writing before. I hear that his MAJESTY (whom God preserve) is to be at Plymouth soon, and that a Squadron of Ships are to manoeuvre for his amusement; if such an event takes place, you will render me an essential piece of service to send me the particulars immediately after, either by express or post, as you may judge convenient. My reasons are, that I would wish not to be anticipated for the CIRCUS, you know, who set up against me eight years ago, and besieged me in full force, makes a point to copy me in every thing. My Horsemanship, and my Exercises by my Horses, does not escape them; but they fall short of the original:--this is universally allowed.
“I some time ago had the misfortune to burn the tendon of my right ankle, near the gun-shot wound I got with you and I were in the front of Hesse Cassel in the last wars in Germany.—In consequence of which I am obliged to give up the Equestrian Department to my son, and you will be delighted with the progress he has made. Nevertheless I hobble on the stage, and lately brought out the entertainment of the Bastile, which I make no doubt you have heard of, which the CIRCUS has also got up in opposition to me; but you know we live in a free country, and every man has a right to pick up his bread where he can. I have now sufficiently explained myself, in order that you may lose no time in sending me the particulars.
“I remain, &c.
“Your old Comrade,
“P. ASTLEY.”
On the 22d on August Mr. ASTLEY received an answer, of which the following is an Extract:--
“DEAR SIR,
“THE inclosed [sic] will furnish you with the particulars which took place this day, August 18, a finer sight I never beheld. You and I have seen the two armies of the English and French in the late German wars march up with all the military parade to attack particularly on that day you describe in your letter; but the two fleets, and the amazing quantity of boats, with their colours flying, made a most splendid appearance. They passed and saluted the KING, who was on board the Southampton. Plymouth and Dock never appeared so gay. Thousands from Devonshire and Cornwall partook of this sight. If any thing else should depend on receiving intelligence Forthwith. I have particularly described the Amazonian Crew that attended his Majesty in their boat, and am told they were seven of the most beautiful women, Plymouth and Dock.
