Thursday, 26 August 1858
Rose at 6 or 7 ― Breakfast ― & working at colouring drawings. At 10 went to Mrs. Sayer’s, Lady Coltman’s, & Col. & Mrs. Sykes ― the latter I saw. Then to Lady Stratford ― but Lord Stratford came in ― (by chance?) & I told him of the Mt. Negro affairs ― he listened very attentively ― & talked considerably ― & with a force & truth united rarely to be found. Coming out, there was D. Damer, who walked with me a bit. Then Sackville St. ― out ― & others: & then paid bills till 3 when I went home & coloured till 6 & after that crossed the park ― (it is always fine ―) to Kensington. Called on Mrs. Theed’s ― & saw her, [Edward] & William. Mrs. T.’s account of Harold’s death. ― At 6½ to Holman Hunt’s. Stephens, Pollen, (who did not stay dinner ―) Martineau, Woolner, & V. Prinsep. ― I was dull & unwell, but yet the evening was nice enough. Bonomi came in ― & latterly A. Egg. ― At 11 walked home with Woolner.
[Transcribed by Marco Graziosi from Houghton Library, Harvard University, MS Eng. 797.3.]