conversation much better and the greater part of it was directed to me. This I believe for the future is to be my place and it is also I believe the more honourable as I am between the two first of the Court: for Kleiserlinc is I think high Chamberlain. They laughed at me a good deal about my former seat between the ladies especially the D for it happened that to day one of the Ladies's nose began to bleed so that she was obliged to leave the table. The seperation after dinner was nearly the same as the former day and we got home a little after 2. I had before told you that when I came home to day my mind was so much occupied with the behaviour of Baron Medern to me, I must now tell you something of it.

First as to his person, he is about the size of Lind, but not quite so fat, his hair almost white curling naturally but disposed by art according to the fashion, a florid open countenance, and a deal of softness in his language and deportment. I should suppose his age to be nearer 70 than 60.

He had on the first day I was at court paid very particular attention to me and seemed much pleased by the expressions I made use of in speaking of the Dutchess his Daughter. The manner in which I was affected by the music seemed to give him favourable impressions of me also, to day before dinner he told me a little of his history, that he had been a firm friend of Duke Charles who reigned during the present Duke's father's disgrace and who is still I believe alive that he spent a vast deal of money in his support even so as to contract debts and that in short he had opposed the present Duke with all his might but that now he was perfectly reconciled with him. in this manner was he talking to me without the least reserve whenever we were both of us disengaged from the Duke. At one time when I made use of some expression which happened to please him I suppose he took me round the neck and kissed me. If you are not sufficiently apprized of how much14 it is the custom for the men to kiss one another in Germany, you will be very much surprised at this behaviour in the middle of the room too, and the Duke not six feet from us. It is the custom here for men of equal rank to kiss each other at meeting and for the inferior to pay his compliments by kissing the shoulder or somewhere thereabouts.

14 Sheet 2 (2 leaves) ends here. Docketed by Jeremy Bentham: '1779 Dec. 11. S.B. Mittau to I.B. Linc. Inn. Arrival Sheet 2d. Reced Jan 11. 1780.'

The first leaf of Sheet 3 is missing. However there is a copy, probably by Jeremiah Bentham in B.M. XX: 89a–91b. What follows up till 'Saturday Dec: 18th Answer to I.B.'s Letter' is from the copy. Certain spellings etc. thought to be Jeremiah's rather than Samuel's have been altered.

When one man kisses another at any other time than at meeting or taking leave it is always considered as an expression of regard, and from his Excellence (Baron Medern) it was a very great compliment, especially as I saw the eyes of the greatest part of the company upon us, but as I thought their looks seemed to be expressive of respect and no smiles of astonishment I passed it off very well. This custom of kissing among the men is by far the most disagreable one I have met with in use in the countries through which I have passed. I found it in Holland and in every place I think I have been at. It is also the only custom which I have not yet been able to reconcile myself to. It has been very seldom but what I have contrived to avoid receiving any of their embraces and I have never returned them till on this occasion. At some places I have seen the men as soon as they got up from table after dinner or supper, kiss one another all round. I supt at a Merchant at Stettin where the company consisted of eight or ten men and three ladies, one old and her two daughters, one of which was married and her husband of the company, the other going to be married and her lover of the company. After supper the old lady and gentleman who were master and mistress of the house got to one corner of the room and the men after having embraced one another in a formal manner at rising from table began kissing one another on the mouth too and seemingly with the greatest gout imaginable. Sometimes three or four would join in to a separate kissing party and then change again. The ladies were retired to one end of the room without appearing to take any notice of the manner the men were amusing themselves, and I with some precipitation followed them to be out of the way least I should be obliged to partake of this diversion also. In a little time one or two of them came to the ladies and favoured them with a salute—Till then I had been an idle spectator of a scene not the most pleasing, but now it bethought me (just out of compliment to the company, you may be *sure* from no other motive) that I might as well have a little kissing too. I therefore applied myself as good manners required to those objects which seemed least to the liking of the rest of the company but which I must confess to my poor taste seemed more agreable. In short during the hour or two which we stayed I had nothing left for my amusement but to kiss these two ladies while the men were kissing and hugging each other. The Lover as well as the Husband seemed very indifferent about their Ladies and only came to them now and then to be satisfied they were in the room. The whole cause of the men's kissing one another so much was that some of them had not seen

each other before for a few years and were going to part again in a day or two. But you must understand they were quite Bourgeois, though probably in very good circumstances. So much for this long digression about kissing, now to return to Baron Medern who had just done me this honour.

He made me several compliments about my disposition and I know not what of which I scarcely remember a word.  The mother, his former wife, died the moment after his youngest son was born. After dinner we two seemed to separate ourselves a good deal from the rest of the company. I can't remember particularly what we talked about then, but the kiss was once or twice repeated. He is in no post at the court but one of the principal Barons and of the most antient family. He has a red ribband of the order of Stanislaus.

Mr. Bull took me home in his carriage and brought me again at five o'clock to the concert. The concert was again most excellent, that is the execution was very great, but the pieces were not so much to my taste as the first of the Adagios at the former concert, so that I kept myself within the bounds of decency and indeed was talking almost the whole time.

I had taken notice of the Duke's mentioning at dinner that Offenberg had neglected to send him one or two things which were wanting for the furnishing of two or three rooms which he had a mind to furnish with everything from England. I did not then offer my service to send for any thing for him but intended to do it upon some future occasion. This occasion now presented itself. He had just finished his party at the card table and came up to me as I was standing close to the music and told me he was very happy to find by his Marshal that I proposed spending eight or ten days at least here, for that he then should have an opportunity of shewing me a palace he had which was much better than that which I had seen and where he had got these rooms almost furnished with things from England. I then told him of my having remarked what he said at dinner and asked if I might have the honour of charging some of my friends in England to supply the deficiency. 'Très volontiers' with a low bow, was the answer and immediately he took me sometimes by the hand and sometimes by the button, led

me through the company, out of that room and almost to the end of the other. When he had got me there he began to tell me how much he, and his father before him, had been attached to the English nation, that he discouraged as much as possible the use of the french manufacturers for dress, that he himself and the Dutchess wore only English, that the French took none of his exports, and that he intended by little and little to break off all trade with them.

He then told me as it were in answer to what I had offered that Mouskin Pouskin (the Russian Minister lately Resident in England)15 had recommended Newman his secretary to him to do his business in London, but that now Simolin (the new Russian Minister) was gone to England he did not imagine Newman would answer to his purpose, for he was very far from being good friends with Simolin. He said a good deal against him which I wish but in vain I could remember, but I think an insinuation at least that he was of the French party—just then came a fellow (who to be sure deserves to be fleed alive and quartered) to tell the Duke it was his turn at the card table, and he to shew his agility set off with a kind of run. The Duke I found had misunderstood me and thought I meant to recommend a kind of agent for him with a view to profit either of myself or my friends and as he seemed disposed to listen to it in that light I certainly ought not to let slip the opportunity. Lindegreen then immediately occured to me, first because if I do anything in that way myself it might be through his means, and secondly if I could not profit by it myself I had rather he should than anybody. You may suppose I attended, at least in sight, at the conclusion of his party at cards.  I have 150 reasons not to introduce this subject again yet awhile. I have scarcely any prospect at all of success on account of Baron Klopman's connections in England, and his disposition to catch at anything to make money, but however I certainly shall try, though as I said before, not yet. I contrived to sound Klopman upon it without telling but very little of what the Duke said and without shewing my intention. He said the Duke had a number of people in England to do his business. One thing I know that Immerman the Duke's Agent at Liebau has no connections in England and that he employed another merchant in Liebau to get some furniture in England for the Duke.

15 This and the next passage in parentheses are probably added by Jeremiah Bentham.

If I mistake not the Duke told me he had exported or sold for exportation last year butter to the amount of £10,000 Sterling. He supposed it was for the Fleets. Now Merchants tell me, that is, Bull told me, that the importation of butter was not permitted except from Ireland.

Baron Medern's two sons were at the concert and the father introduced us to each other.

### Friday Decr. 17th 1779

 Breakfasted with Baron Klopman. You know I wanted some lace ruffles, and had not as yet bought any, as there are so small duties here those things of course must be cheap. I asked Klopman about it, and he told me he had sent for some from the manufactory for the Duke, and that they had sent a great number, more than were wanting, and that he was going to send them back again, but if I wished to have any I might. I saw they were ready sealed up and directed, but he opened them, and I chose one pair the cheapest of the sort, but they cost eleven ducats which is almost five guineas. But what will you say to me when I tell you that from the advice of every body I have talked with upon the subject it has seemed absolutely necessary that I should have a whole suit of velvet, not plain but striped. This from Klopman's account is cheaper here than any where except at the very place where it is made. He sent separately for each of the merchants to bring their velvets to him and beat them down as low as possible. It is sold in pieces for a suit, but as there is a little more than necessary he cut off a yard and a quarter before he let the taylor have it and made him confess there was still quite enough for the suit. The velvet alone will cost however near £17 and there must be white Satten.

Saturday Dec: 18th Answer to I.B.'s Letter

 The Prussian Minister certainly would be the best means of introducing your Code to the King but in case you had no better, it might be done by the means of *my friend* the Margrave of Schwedt first cousin to the king from whom I have received so much honour and expression of friendship, especially as he desired me to write to him as soon as I was arrived at Petersburg. I have not yet found time to give you an account of my reception, and *detention* at his Court: but I will sometime or other.

Continue to direct your letters here although I shall not stay more than a fortnight if I don't succede. that time I shall stay at

any rate. Letters must pass through here 〈so〉 the expense wont be encreased nor any great delay.

Mears's book I wrote to Lindegren about.

With respect to Symp, it is all gone, lost, never used.16 I shall begin another letter this afternoon.

I have set up since I have been here generally till 1 or 2 in the morning and never in bed after 7. I was obliged to do this to write thus much to you as you know I take a good deal of time to deliberate upon any thing I do. and you may imagine I have enough at present to deliberate about.

I hope you don't expect I should even have read all this over after having written it much less that I have given any time to correct the first expression that came into my head.

Raspe17 is certainly the best of men for you or for me or indeed 〈...〉 for any body were it not for his tache however 〈you〉 should know how, I think, not to run a danger of suffering by that part of his Character. He had temptations to

Many thousand thanks to Lind for his news and you also for yours. I shewd Lind's to the Duke and read yours. He was as the rest to whom I shewd it, charmed with Lind's style of writing, but don't fail to tell him of one fault by which alone they found it was not a french man who wrote it. Poste he makes of the feminine gender. true it is so when it signifies the post which carries letters but when a *place* then it is Masculine.

Adieu. I am just come from Court and have a Levee at my Lodgings, to see Storer's Delineator.18

One of the young Mederns has just called on me. The embraces of the Old Man and of Old Keiserlinc I am very well reconciled to but I cannot *stomach* yet such kissing from the young. I know you will scold me that I cannot conform myself with less difficulty to this as well as other customs. I will as soon as I can: why not kiss a man as well as a Cat, Dog, horse, or in general a substance of the heat of a human body.

### Sunday

 I had intended not to have gone to Court today at least not till after dinner that I might have had the more to write to you for the Post goes out at 2 o Clock, but Klopman wont let me stay away,

16 This refers to sympathetic (invisible) ink which the brothers used for private communications.

17 The name has been deleted but is given in the copy (B.M. XX: 92b).

18 Cf. letter 300, n. 10.

and I shall the news to tell them from your 2 other letters which I have just now received.

I have just been told second hand from one of the Musicians that the last concert was ordered on my account as it was not on the usual day, but I dont believe a word of it for the D would have told me so if it had.19

### 345

### J e r e m y B e n t h a m t o S a m u e l B e n t h a m 1 3–11 January 1780 (Aet 31)

Monday Jan. 3 1780

### 1. Husarjevski2

Ne rien savoir de ce qui pourroit t'être arrivé à Dantzick, voilà ce qui ne laissoit pas de me donner un peu de mécontentement. Ce mécontentement vient d'être guéri en partie par une lettre de Husarjevski à Lind qui nous est arrivée vendredi dernier le 31. En voici ce qui vous regarde.

A Dantzig ce 17 de Xre 1779

'Je suis toujours occupé Monsieur et cher ami. Je l'ai été dans ce tems-ci, plus qu'à l'ordinaire, tellement que je répons seulement aujourd'hui à vos lettres du 21 Août et du 22 d' 8re. dont la première étoit de recommendation de M. Bentham, qui ne se plaindra pas sûrement de moi, parce que j'ai fait pour lui, tout ce que je devois faire pour une personne que vous m avez addressée. Indépendamment de cela, j'ai été enchanté de sa figure, de sa douceur, et de ses belles manières. Il a été généralement goûté ici, et je suis sûr qu'il le sera également à Petersbourg, pour où il partit y a environ trois semaines.'

19 Sheet 3 ends here. Docketed by Jeremy Bentham: '1779 Dec. 18 S.B. Mittau to I.B. Linc. Inn. Reced Jany 11. 1780. Arrival. Sheet 3d. Leaf 2d.'

The address and postmark are also on this sheet.

**345.** 1 B.M. III: 1–2. Autograph. Docketed: 'I.B. Jany. 11th. to S.B. Mietau 1780.'

Addressed: 'A Monsr. / Monsr. Bentham / a Mittau / en Courlande / Aux Soins de M. le Baron Klopman Chambellan de S.A. Serme. / Single Sheet.'

The 'other half sheet' (namely B.M. III: 2) mentioned in section 5 begins with section 15. Thus sections 15–22 were written before section 5. The numbers were presumably added later.

2 Husarjevski was Commissary to the King of Poland at Danzig. There is a copy of Lind's letter, dated 21 August 1779, recommending Samuel to him in B.M. XX: 11b, and on p. 72b of the same volume is another copy of part of the letter.

### 2. Buchati

M. Husarjevski marque aussi que Bukati dont il annonce l'arrivé a couru grave risque à la mer: par où il me semble qu'il a dû être au bord du même vaisseau dont tu as parlé dans ta lettre de Liebau.

### 3. Letter received

Wedny. Jan. 5

 Ce moment on m'apporte ta lettre de Memel3 . Elle est arrivé à Londres le 20 dernier: et pendant tout cet intervalle elle m'a été déténue par la stupidité des gens du Post-Office, que Dieu confonde.

### 4. Letter Sent4

Le dernier jour de l'année nous vous avons envoyez deux très longues, moi et Q.S.P. ensemble.

Il consente avec toutes les amitiés du monde de vous fournir £S1000 en cas qu'après délibération suffisante il paroit que le projet de négoce etc présente un prospect de solidité. Il faut que t'en dise ce peu de mois, crainte d'accidens auxquelles toute lettre est sujette.

#### 5. Letter reced ~

Tuesday Jan. 11

 I have just received your long letter of the 18th last5 : the other half sheet of this was written in the morning. There is a fine parcel of it for Q.S.P. to copy. I believe I have not told you yet that he copies every scrap you write. Your letter contains 3 sheets; but one of them being divided into two I pay as for 4. viz. 4s. Remember this another time. Raspe is just with me. It is near 10 o'clock. I fear I shall not have time to send you much by this post. Wilson opposite me reading your letter.

### 6. Cooke dead

Je viens ce moment d'apprendre une nouvelle très fâcheuse. Le pauvre Capitaine Cooke est mort: il a été tué par les Sauvages.6 La nouvelle en a été porté hier à l'Amirauté dans une lettre de M.

3 See letter 342, n. 7.

4 This heading has been moved a sentence backward: it seems to be a later addition, inserted in the wrong place.

5 Letter 344.

6 Cook was killed at Karakakoa Bay, Hawaii, on 13 February 1779.

Clarke commandant de l'autre vaisseau. Je n'en ai pas encore appris les détails.

### 7. Lindegreen and Contracts

What belongs to Lindegreen I shall copy out and send him probably tomorrow. In the mean time as to Corn, know that at present it is worth nothing nor will be worth any thing for a long while. Take this as general rule that the Navy and Victualling boards may contract for any thing: prohibited or not prohibited: since none of these prohibitions bind the King.

### 8. Bread

If any opportunity should offer, I wish you would send some of the bread you mention as a sample. I would then send it about to Hanway: possibly even to Ld. Sandwich and other people. It must certainly be very useful for sea-stores. If you get it fresh you might send it by ever so long a circumbendibus. Is it not the same thing with the biscuit which De Court exports to France. But could not you get the process there; or what would be much better, learn how to make it, and actually make a batch or two of it yourself? It would pass I should think for a frolic very well. You might pretend to be monstrous fond of it; and to wish to be able to have some of it, go where you will. Observe particularly what the *keeping* quality depends on.

### 9. l aws

Ne manquez pas de vous instruire de tout ce qui regarde les loix du pays ou vous êtes. Vous me ferez une petite bibliothèque des livres sur ce sujet-là. If you contrive to introduce the subject before the Duke, mentioning the reason for your asking, viz. Code etc you may get such assistance from him perhaps as you could not from any body else.

### 10. Prices

Get from the people there the prices they sell their things for. What for instance did the Duke get for his butter? You ought to make a table of all their exports with the prices. This would be soon done: their exports can not admit of much variety.

### 11. Ships

Get likewise an account of the number of ships that have entered the Courish ports for as many years back as you can: distinguishing them according to their nations.

I have not yet been to Sharpe's7 : and I can not imagine what use it could be to you there to know how we load our Waggons here. I wish you had told me something of the purpose.

### 13

Depuis quelque tems les affaires publiques vont très bien. La prise d'Omoa avec tous ses trésors, la défaite des forces combinées des Rebelles et de la France, le mésintelligence la haine même qui s'est mise entre ces deux puissances, l'accomodement si heureux et si inopiné avec l'Irlande, tout cela joint à quelques petits succès de moindre conséquence a mis une certaine allégresse dans l'esprit du peuple. Quant à l'affaire d'Omoa on l'a introduit sur le théâtre au fin du pantomime de Harlequin Fortunatus.8 On y représente la bravoure étourdie du matelot, qui s'étant grimpé avec deux coutelas sur le mur et ayant surpris un officier Espagnol nud et en chemise lui en présenta un. Tenez, Signor, dit-il: maintenant nous voilà égaux. Vers le même tems deux autres s'étant portés vers un autre côté avec leurs mousquets présentèrent leurs pièces à 50 ou 60 Espagnols et leur inspirent tant d'effroi, qu'ils restèrent immobiles sans songer à les attaquer. Ces deux traits sont rapportés dans la Gazette de la Cour.

14

Que diriez-vous si le Parlement vint à supprimer les sinécures, les appointemens sans emploi. Vous direz sans doute que le patriotisme n'est pas encore éteint, et que la vertu ici est un peu plus qu'un vain nom. En vérité la chose commence à ne plus paroitre invraisemblable. *Burke* a proposé un *Bill* pour cet effet, et il aura le secours de bien de Membres qui ordinairement ne se rangent pas du parti de l'opposition: entre autres de votre ami Sr. Gilbert Elliot de Adam, et d'autres Ecoissois. 14 *Counties* ont déjà /arrêté/ présentés des *pétitions* pour appuier le projet, et il paroit probable que tout le royaume suivra leur exemple.9 [*Inserted:* See No. 22]

7 Cf. letter 343 §9.

8 The pantomime has not been traced. For Omoa cf. letter 343, n. 5.

9 Burke's Bill for 'economical reform' was introduced on 11 February 1780. Sir Gilbert Elliot (1751–1814) had succeeded his father (cf. letter 96, n. 4) as fourth baronet in 1777, and was at this time m.p. for Roxburghshire; he was created Baron Minto in 1797 and Earl of Minto in 1813. He at first supported Burke but later voted against economical reform. For Adam cf. letter 201, n. 10.

### tr a s 15

Tuesday Jan: 11

 I have now before me Bergman's 'Commentationes Chemica e tertio novorum Societatis Reg. Scient. Ups. actorum tomo excerpta. Upsaliae apud Joh. Edman. Reg. Acad. Typograph 1777. 4to.10 It consists of two papers: one exhibiting a chemical analysis of the contents and productions of Volcanos; the other a chem. analysis of the several sorts of pretious stones. In the first, p. 65 is an account of the puzzolana, and which is nearly the same thing the Dutch Tras. It gives the theory of the mortar made with those substances most clearly and perfectly. I have therefore extracted what relates to these subjects: which is as follows.

This substance as every body knows mixt up with quick-lime slacked in water presently grows in to a stone: which most useful property is much illustrated by the account above given of its composition.

17

The firmness of mortar depends in a general view upon the limewater, with which the whole mass 〈...〉 〈..〉ed. This attracts the aërial acid 〈...〉 〈. . .〉 from the atmosphere: which being 〈...〉 〈...〉 saturation the particles which were 〈. . .〉 〈...〉 separated (this is rather obscure) (quo ad saturationem hausto, particulae solutae secernuntur) grow on as it were to the others and glew them together, whereas before they were connected only by a kind of

10 The two papers are: *Producta ignis subterranei Chemice considerata* and *Disquisitio Chemica de Terra Gemmarum* both by Torbern Bergman (1735–84) and to be found in the third volume of *Nova Acta Regiae Societatis Scientiarum Upsaliensis.* Later in this letter (§ 21) Bentham gives a reference to Volume I of Bergman's *Opuscula physica et chemica,* which was published in 1779. Bentham had a very high opinion of Bergman; and said indeed that he would like to follow the method in jurisprudence which Bergman followed in mineralogy. (See Elie Halévy, *La Formation du Radicalisme Philosophique,* I, 313.) He also translated a work of Bergman's (see letter 350, n. 14).

juxtaposition accompanied with a very weak degree of cohesion. This combination is the sooner effected, the quicker the water evaporates.

### 18

Common mortar is made with sand a pure silicious earth: the particles of which being like glass, neither take up water, nor contract any adhesion with any other particle, by which means the whole mass takes a long time to dry and harden.

### 19

Now then if instead of sand, the puzzolana be employ'd, the case is very different. The particles of the clay not only greedily absorb the water, but by their spongy texture serve admirably well to connect and fasten with the other ingredients. Besides this, there is the calx of iron, and which has still some portion of phlogiston adhering to it. This, as has been found by experience, contributes greatly to the strength of the whole: insomuch that if to your puzzolana you add fresh quicklime (by which the water is not only most greedily absorbed, but by means of the heat produced by the mixture presently driven off in vapour) the whole mass, if your workmen are lazy, will harden as they are working it, and become unfit for use.

### 20

The Dutch *Tras* he says (which signifies mortar) is very nearly of the same nature as the puzzolana except that it contains rather more heterogeneous matters (he seems to mean silicious earth) at least that does which is brought from *Andernach* 〈I〉 believe somewhere in Germany near the 〈...〉 for beside particles of *mica* and iron ore particles of *schoerl* and granate, and other substances may also be distinguished by the eye and in some measure separated by lation. In general too it contains more calcarious earth, as appears from it's effervescing more violently in acid.

### 21

With respect to silicious earth, you are to understand that common clay, is commonly half or even ¾ of it and more, silicious earth (See Bergman Opuscula Vol. 1. p. 289. Holmiae Upsaliae and Aboae 1779 Tract de confectione aluminis S.3) clay perfectly free from all heterogeneous matter being neither more nor less than so much earth of alum. It appears therefore that the sand which is

used to make common mortar is precisely the worst of earth that can be employ'd, and it should seem that common clay would do as well as the Dutch material to make even the terras cement, if the clay were hard enough to bear pounding without sticking together and growing ductile. The puzzolana and the Dutch or Andernach stone possess this advantage owing to their having been baked by the fire of the Volcano to which they owe their origin. Broken pitchers and other earthenware would answer equally well I suppose if they were to be had equally cheap. It appears therefore that this terras mortar is nothing more than what common mortar ought to be.

22

Une chose qui arriva à l'assemblée du comté de York ne contribuera pas peu à la réussite de ces projets d'œconomie. M. Smelt ci-devant Sous Gouverneur du Prince de Galles et connu pour l'ami particulier du Roi (d'ailleurs homme de bien) y alla exprès pour tâcher de les empêcher. Là-dessus il donna un bel harangue, et fit tant qu'il révolta tout le monde. Il dit entre autres choses, que le Roi n'avoit pas à beaucoup près assez de pouvoir, que c'étoit une fausse idée qui le regardoit comme serviteur du publique: qu'il n'y a actuellement qu'un seul patriote dans la nation, et que cet homme unique est sur le trône. Le Roi paroit être également l'objet de la haine et du mépris de tous les partis. Il veut faire tout par lui-même: il brouille tout: il gâte tout. On dit que Lord Gower a dit dans une assemblée assez publique 'Enfin il n'y a pas moyen de ne pas lier les mains à ce fou-là.† Enfin il ne paroit pas avoir d'ami que ce Mr. Smelt. Heureusement notre constitution et notre bonheur sont établis sur une base un peu plus forme que la sagesse de tel ou tel particulier.11

### † That madman must have his hands tied.

11 The meeting of Yorkshire freeholders took place on 30 December 1779 (cf. I. R. Christie, *Wilkes, Wyvill and Reform,* London, 1962, 76–77). Leonard Smelt (1719?– 1800), a Yorkshireman, formerly a Captain in the Royal Engineers, was appointed Sub-Governor to the Prince of Wales and Prince Frederick (Duke of York) in 1771. It was on the occasion mentioned by Bentham that Smelt 'publicly renounced his pension.. .in order to have the pleasure of uttering some unpopular royalist opinions' (Richard Pares, *King George III and the Politicians,* Oxford, 1953, 6, n. 4).

For Earl Gower, cf. letter 341, n. 7.

### 346

# T o S a m u e l B e n t h a m 1

### 17–18 January 1780 (Aet 31)

Lundi ce 17 Janv. 1780

Ce moment je reçois ta lettre du 26 dernier.2 Je m'occupe d'abord de tes questions: je leur donne la préférence sur toute autre chose; et lorsque j'y répons, ce sera avec un degré de soin et d'assurance proportionné à l'intérêt que je t'y vois prendre. Ne craigne point que je sois inquiet de ne rien savoir des personnes, des motifs, ni des circonstances. Eh! comment as-tu pu croire qu'il falloit que tu me fasses des apologies à cet égard? Et comment pourrai-je te confier mes propres secrets, si je te voyois trahir ceux d'autrui? Tu sçais assez si je t'aime, et cependant combien de fois m'as-tu vu agir de même avec toi, que tu agis maintenant avec moi. D'ailleurs puisque tu te soucies tant de la promptitude aussi

**346.** 1 B.M. III: 4–5 and X: 603. Autograph. Docketed: 'I.B. to S.B. Jany. 18th 1780.'

Addressed: 'A Mons: / Mons: Bentham / a Mittau / en Courlande / aux soins de M. le Baron Klopman / 2 sheets / 2 feuilles.'

The latter part of this letter—the 'private' English as opposed to the 'ostensible' French part—is addressed 'To / Miss Paris'. It is in fact the 'sham letter directed to Miss Paris' referred to in Bentham's letter to Samuel of 30 March–4 April 1780 (letter 350 at n. 18). It is not quite clear whether this part (B.M. X: 603) was enclosed with the main French part of the present letter or with the letter from George Wilson to Samuel (cf. letter 350, n. 17) sent at the same time; but it seems most properly to belong where it is placed here. For Miss Paris cf. n. 10 below.

2 B.M. II: 421, dated 19–26 December 1779 at Mittau. It gives a further description of the Courland Court, and of a visit paid to a country house of the Duke's where the manners were much less formal. There was evidently quite serious question of Samuel's settling in Courland to build ships for the Duke, but 'there are those whose interest it is to oppose me'.

The following merits quotation:

'If you don't send a copy of Code and Punishments too here to the Duke the very instant they are published, never see my face again. He has sense enough to admire them, and what is still more extraordinary I believe application enough to read them. You do not say any thing of the time when Code is to be finished although you tell me it is to have the preference.'

The letter concludes with a set of eight queries, the gist of which may be inferred from Bentham's answers in the present letter. He may seek help from their father or from Alderman Clark. Samuel emphasizes the importance of the queries, but must keep their purpose secret. They concern the possibility of a foreigner's purchasing land in England. It is implied that the foreigner is Polish, but this must not be said to those he consults.

Bentham, it seems, took it that this foreigner was in fact the Duke of Courland and intended the 'ostensible' French part of his answer to be seen by the Duke.

bien que de l'exactitude de mes réponses, je suis bien aise que tu me l'aise fait savoir; autrement je suis maintenant si occupé que j'aurois deféré cette affaire comme j'ai été obligé de faire à l'égard de celui des voitures. Tu sçais très bien que depuis plusieurs années je me soucie beaucoup moins de ce que sont les loix, que de ce qu'elles doivent être: mais heureusement les chefs sur lesquels roulent vos questions sont l'A B C de notre jurisprudence: ainsi je suis aussi bien porté d'y répondre, que si je n'avois jamais fait autre chose que de soutenir le juste ou l'injuste selon qu'on le commande. Cependant je n'ai garde de me fier à mes propres forces: et les réponses quelles qu'elles soient tu pourrois t'assurer qu'elles sont le résultat unanime (à moins que je marque le contraire) des opinions de tous les gens de loi de mes amis que je pourrai trouver moyen de consulter sans faire trop d'éclat.

Vos questions, mon cher, sont si bien conçues, et le plan qu'on y a formé pour tirer toutes les connoissances dont on pourroit avoir besoin pour se déterminer est si bien tracé, qu'il me semble qu'il n'y a rien à désirer à cet égard. Cependant je ne les répéterai pas: et je ne bornerai à y donner les résponses pour épargner le tems et l'écriture.

1

Un étranger (à moins de se faire naturalizer) ne peut pas acquérir en son propre nom aucun bien-fonds, hormis une maison pour sa demeure, et cela pour quelques années seulement. Cela s'entend de l'hypothèque (mortgage) aussi bien que de l'acquisition directe.

### 2

Mais s'il mène sa femme ici, et qu'elle accouche ici ou partout ailleurs dans les états du Roi, ses enfans seront citoyens Anglois. Aussi si vous vous mariez en Courlande par exemple vos enfans quelconques qui y naitront, seront Anglois: comme aussi les enfans quelconques de vos enfans males.

### 3

Tout étranger, *Protestant* et non ennemi, peut obtenir un Acte du Parlement pour le naturalizer. C'est ce qu'on ne refuse à personne. C'est un objet de £S150 à £S200 quand un seul en fait les fraix: ordinairement plusieurs se joignent ensemble pour cet effet: de façon qu'il ne leur coûte à chacun qu'environ 20 à 30 ou 40 £S.

Un tel *naturalizé* peut acquérir des terres et çtre Anglois en toute façon: excepté qu'il ne peut prétendre à aucun emploi: à moins d'un dispense particulier dont il n'y a que très peu d'exemples, entr'autres le Prince Hereditaire de Brunswic.3 Cependant à l'egard des emplois militaires, on ferme les yeux tellement quellement dans la pratique: témoin le vainqueur d'Estaing, le Général Prévôt4 qui est Suisse, et quelques officiers de la Marine: mais la lettre de la loi leur rend toujours la condition précaire.

5

Cependant à l'égard des terres qu'il voudra acquérir, un étranger, par les moyens que vous avez imaginé, peut très-bien s'en assurer la jouissance. Pour cela, il n'a qu'à se servir du nom d'un Anglois. Pour que cet Anglois ne puisse pas le vendre, votre ami n'a qu'à en garder les titres de jouissance (Title-deeds). Alors tout le mal que cet Anglois peut lui faire, c'est de lui en voler les profits à mesure qu'ils se produisent: et à cela il pourra mettre fin dès qu'il veut par un procédé très court. Supposons done que les terres valent £S 4000 par an: pour se garantir, il ne lui fait qu'un homme d'affaires qui puisse donner caution au montant de £S 4000: alors il sera sûr de ne rien perdre, en prenant garde de ne pas laisser courir les arrérages plus d'une année.

6

Vous voyez bien qu'il n'y a pas moyen de dispenser votre ami de la nécessité de mettre sa confiance à quelque Anglois au montant de la somme qui lui deviendra due dans l'espace qui s'écoule entre un jour de payement et celui qui le suit: par exemple la rente pour une moitié de l'année. Pour cela il faut bien se fier à quelqu'un: On prendra caution pour £4000: mais qui est-ce qui peut assurer que celui qui le donne a des effets de cette valeur-là? Il faut que ce soit quelque autre Anglois: et ainsi de suit. On peut (de la façon que vous indiquez) établir un autre homme d'affaires pour poursuivre en justice en cas de besoin, le premier.—*Sed quis custodiat ipsos Custodes?* En supposant que tous les deux sont des gueux et des fripons et se mettront d'accord pour le tromper il peut toujours perdre. Cette espèce de risque, il faut qu'on le court partout: mais

3 Prince Charles William Ferdinand of Brunswick (1735–1806), who succeeded his father as Duke in 1780, held commands in the combined British and Hanoverian armies during the Seven Years' War.

4 Cf. letter 343, n. 5.

il sera toujours plus grand dans un pais étranger. Cependant si votre ami veut bien le courir, vous pouvez lui marquer, que la chose peut se faire à son gré.

7

Quant à l'homme d'affaires (the Agent) il me paroit que le bon homme Browne,5 le même qui a toujours fait si bien les affaires de mon père, lui conviendroit à merveille. Il a des biens immeubles et visibles [de la] valeur dont il est question ci-dessus. Je crois qu'il ne lui seroit pas difficile de trouver pour certifier en faveur de sa probité des gens d'un rang capable de rassurer un étranger qui ne peut juger que par les noms. Je me rappelle entre autre le Juge Buller, neveu de l'ancien Chancelier le Comte de Bathurst.6 Se donner pour caution voilà encore qui est bien autre chose. Si mon père par exemple par amitié pour Browne voudroit bien s'exposer en cette capacité. Sa caution seroit bonne pour £S 1200 par an en biens immeubles et visibles: mais qui est-ce qui pourroit s'assurer de cela en Pologne?

8

Tout ceci est entre nous, et seulement pour vous mettre à même d'obliger votre ami dans le cas qu'il s'addresse à vous de son propre mouvement pour lui recommander un homme d'affaires. Mais n'allez pas lui en proposer s'il est dans le cas de pouvoir s'en pourvoir par quelque autre canal. Vous n'êtes pas si bête que d'attendre qu'on mette une pleine confiance dans un étranger comme vous: ainsi en vous mettant trop en avant, vous courez[le] risque d'être soupçonné d'un intérêt que vous n'avez pas: et alors vous pourrez vous baisser dans l'estimation des gens, seulement pour une très petite chance de rendre des services à deux personnes dont une est un ami nouveau, et l'autre un particulier qui bien que très honnête homme vous est à peu près indifférent. Si vous ne scaurez vous défendre de proposer des moyens qui renferment le choix de telle ou de telle personne, qu'ils ne soient fondés que sur la supposition que vous ne soyez qu'un fripon. Là-dessus vous pourrez proposer, par exemple, qu'on choisisse par quelque autre canal un homme d'affaires qui ne me soit pas connu: en ce cas vous et moi

5 Cf. letter 45, n. 3.

6 Henry Bathurst, 2nd Earl Bathurst (1714–94) was Lord Chancellor from 1771–78. In 1779 he succeeded Earl Gower as Lord President of the Council. His sister, Lady Jane Bathurst, was the mother of Sir Francis Buller (1746–1800), who had been appointed a puisne judge of the King's Bench on Mansfield's recommendation in May 1778.

nous pourrons très-bien servir par occasion pour éclairer la conduite de cet homme d'affaires: ou bien on pourroit en prendre un à votre recommandation: et dans ce cas-là on doit se procurer par un autre canal un inspecteur qui ne nous sont pas connu. Vous voyez que je m'offre à vous pour cela en cas de besoin: mais n'allez pas m'impliquer dans une telle affaire sans des motifs bien déterminés. En verité je ne comprens pas qu'est-ce qu'il peut t'avoir déterminé à te donner tant de mouvement pour un Polonois qui apparement ne scauroit en aucune façon concourir à tes vues. Est-ce pure amitié? eh bien, je m'y rends: tu ne peux pas avoir d'ami qui ne soit le mien.

9

Toutefois pour me mettre dans le cas de pouvoir servir plus efficacement à cet ami, il me semble que tu dois me le faire conn〈oitre.〉 tâchez done d'obtenir permission à cet effet. Par exemple est-il Catholique? si cela est, il ne faut pas penser à la naturalization: à moins que pour l'amour de l'Angleterre il ne veuille déclarer en justice qu'il ne croit pas à la transubstantiation, ni que le Pape n'ait ici aucun droit. Mais même dans ce cas-là il pourroit posséder des bien fonds de la façon indirecte mentionnée ci-dessus: c'est à dire sur le même pied que les Catholiques nés ici les ont posseédé jusqu'à présent.

10

Vous voulez sçavoir à quel prix on peut maintenant en acheter? hélas! pour une bagatelle. Avant les troubles actuels le prix courant en étoit *30* fois la rente annuelle: notre père a donné pour une partie de Q.S.P. *33* fois. Maintenant ce n'est environ *20* fois: L'autre jour une partie des biens du feu Comte de Halifax7 s'est vendue pour 18 fois seulement. En Angleterre la distance de la capitale ne fait aucune différence: mais en Ecosse le prix en est un peu moindre. C'est le vrai tems de moisson pour les gens à argent. Si nos succès continuent il haussera sans doute: et lors de la paix il reprendra son premier niveau. Je parle toujours des *terres:* quant aux maisons, le prix en est moindre: mais c'est une vile denrée qui à plusieurs égards ne conviendroit pas à une personne qui fût en état de faire son choix. Elles ne donnent aucune considération: elles exigent des réparations: on n'est pas sûr de les mettre à bail: témoin mon pauvre *Malthouse.*

7 George Montague Dunk, 5th Earl of Halifax (1716–71), after whose death the earldom became extinct.

Point de place pour des nouvelles: il y a d'autres qui t'en donneront peut-être. Il me semble, mon cher, que votre séjour est un peu long en Courlande: je crains que les Medern et les Klopman etc. etc. et surtout les bontés de votre Prince à coeur Anglois que vous vantez tant, ne vous fassent perdre de vue votre objet principal. Eh bien done, il l'aura mon code: il l'aura dès la fin de Juillet: je dois en envoyer un exemplaire à son seigneur suzerain,8 qui l'attend. Les deux exemplaires pourroient aller ensemble. A propos de ce Roi-là, savez vous les bruits étranges qu'on a fabriqué en Hollande touchant sa prétendue démence, et l'abdication qui devoit s'ensuivre? Il n'y a pas 14 jours que j'ai vu une lettre de lui qui venoit d'arriver par la poste, pleine de sens et d'esprit.

Ce voyage de votre Duc dont vous parlez dans votre avant dernière, marquez-moi, dès que vous le savez, quand il doit se faire. Qu'il vint maintenant il trouveroit un petit compagnon de métier, un Prince Souverain d'Anspach9 lequel se plait ici singulièrement: à en croire le Baron Podmaniezki qui le connoit particulièrement, et qui alloit souper chez lui en partant de chez moi Samedi. En effet on pourroit beaucoup voir dans le cour〈s〉 d'une année: mais cependant que fera le Province?

Ci-dedans vous trouverez une lettre de notre ami Lohmen à sa princesse.10 Il ne sçauroit l'envoyer par la poste, crainte de la famille: c'est pourquoi il vous prie de trouver occasion de la lui remettre vous même, de façon que personne n'en sache. Adieu! Adieu!

### Mardi ce 18 Janvr. 1780.

8 The King of Poland, Stanislaus Augustus Poniatowski. Among the various drafts for letters to Sovereigns and Ministers in U.C. clxix is one to him written *c.* 1780 on page 42, also a later one on page 44. The former like most of these unsent letters concerns the proposed presentation of *Code.*

9 This was presumably Christian Frederick Charles Alexander, Margrave of Anspach and Bayreuth (1736–1806), who in 1791 sold his principality to the King of Prussia and retired to England.

10 This is evidently the Miss Paris of letter 350, § 20. She seems to have been Lohmen's fiancée and may perhaps have been stepdaughter to the Dr Kruse of whom Samuel saw a good deal in St Petersburg and for whom he obtained agricultural information. In Samuel's undated letter received by Bentham on 1 May 1780 (see letter 353, n.  In a later letter Bentham received from Samuel, dated 23 October 1780 (see letter 378, n. 1), Samuel talks of Miss Paris as going with Dr Kruse, his wife and unmarried daughter to his estate in Polish Liepland. He also says 'Kruse's chief merit is that he is father in law to one of the best sea officers in Europe'. He is certainly referring here to Lohmen and one must understand him to mean 'is to be'. See also letter 372 at the end, where Miss Nancy is evidently the same lady again. Letters to Madame Kruse and to Mlle Paris from Lohmen are listed in Jeremiah Bentham's list of Samuel's letters of recommendation; also a letter to Mlle Lohmen (B.M. XX: 4).

Your secret is so transparent that I cannot help questioning whether you meant to keep it from me. Indeed what helped me to the bottom of it was a circumstance I have heard from several quarters, that the E. of R. 12 was not at all satisfied with this new march. On this account it seems as if a sort of asylum was looking out for by way of a *pis-aller.* The letter I meant should be every syllable osten: and therefore I have made its appearance as inost: as possible. The supposition is that you have been telling me a wrong country in order to keep the promise a secret the better by holding out false lights. Did you really mean your gauze covering as a contrivance to cheat the Devil, and to let me know without having told me. I hope not: and I think not, from the circumstance of your mentioning Q.S.P. in that manner. Now as to him he is the last person of all others to be 〈...〉 the least suspicion of such an affair. 〈Be〉cause his vanity would lead him to talk of it to everybody who would hear him: by which means it would sooner or later come round to the ears of 8 Russians who might prevent it. Do you know that they even talk of Siberia again to make way for Orloff? who they say is become a sanglier and must be sent out of the way. But this is all vague stuff not taken from any authority that can be depended upon, and besides mixed with incons〈istent〉 ideas of the K. of P's13 being to be disgraced for interfering in the affair, and your man being to be put in his place. Such 〈as〉 it is I have it from L. 14 who mentions not 〈...〉 neither nor gives great weight to it.

Mind what I am going to say to you now. For the future till I hear of your being elsewhere I shall direct to you at Mittau, and I shall take care that every thing shall be ostens: however otherwise in appearance.  I shall direct to you at Mittau generally; not as before, because you may have your reasons for wishing that person should not know of it. Now then you may give a general commission to D.15 or anyone else in trust for him to open all letters directed for you. This will have the appearance of the utmost trustiness. The time for offering to do it will be when D. happens to express any particular satisfaction at any of the letters of news that come to you. Then after abundance of apologies for the trouble it may give him to hunt over the letter through a parcel of stuff that relates only to your own

11 B.M. X: 603 begins here. 12 The Empress of Russia.

13 Stanislaus, King of Poland. 14 John Lind. 15 The Duke of Courland.

trifling affairs you may propose his opening the letters for the sake of the news, or on account of the chance there may be of their containing any thing relative to the project. L. will write to you by next post: so if you should be gone, there will be a letter for them to read.

2.

To Mosy16 I shall not write, because I will not have any thing appear under my hand: but Thursday (the day after tomorrow I will go to talk with him: that is to show him that part of your letter: for no sollicitations shall I use on my own account for obvious reasons.

3.

Lohman called on me this morning: I have had scarce time to say a syllable to him. He comes again tomorrow. Poor fellow he has been very ill, and has been confined here at Portsmouth instead of going to Gibraltar with the fleet as he was to have done.

I shall set Browne to work tomorrow. The Query about children already born is virtually answer'd. They must be naturalized along with the father.

Yes the scheme of indentures will do perfectly. I will send you a form if there should be occasion.

The new initial I will still endeavour to send you under a seal. You may mention to D. the possibility of such a thing, I leave it him as a legacy. The fusible metal Swede has no more of. I could perhaps get you the receipt whereby you might make it and send it from Petersburgh if desired.

Since my last I have been rummaging the books of Patents. It costs a shilling to examine each, so to claim an an office copy is not to be had but an enormous price 1s. for every 92 words at the least: possibly she might let me make extracts gratis. For office copies are wanted only for evidence in trials. They are distributed (devil take them) among three offices: of which as yet I have seen but one, to which *Standham*[?] introduced me. I looked over the index which begins at the reign of Ann about the beginning of the present century at which time Patents were first allow'd. But patents yet unexpir'd will be all that it can be material for you to know of. I remarked inter alia somebody's steering machine: the patent granted but a few months ago: also one to one of the Fordyce's for pearl ashes to be made of new materials, also another to one Champion for another new metal.

16 Mosberry: cf. letter 343, n. 7.

You must take care not to mention any of the contents of this letter, because you can not produce it, and must not be supposed to have had it.

Take occasion to open the succeeding future letters if they should come while you are there before D. that he may see there is nothing more than what you shew him. I may possibly scold you in a cheerful way about the extraordinary expence occasioned by your going there, that D. if he pleases may take a hint.

### 347

### T o S a m u e l B e n t h a m 1

### 7 February 1780 (Aet 31)

### 1. Code

Peut-être que vous pourriez faire ensorte que Monseigneur2 vous donne une lettre à sa soeur qui est à Petersburg. Cela pourroit vous être essentiellement utile: surtout s'il est vrai, comme on dit ici qu'elle est très-bien avec l'Impératrice. Ce sera mieux sans doute, s'il lui vient en l'esprit de vous faire cette grâce de son propre mouvement: c'est à vous [de] juger cependant, si vous ne pourriez pas hazarder à la lui demander, en lui disant la raison. Le point capital est de faire ensorte que le Code parvienne aux mains de l'Impératrice: et pour s'assurer de cela on ne peut pas se ménager trop de canals. Harris, Sievers,3 Kruze4 car pour les Orloffs les Repnins et les Czernichefs,5 dans un cas comme celui-ci je ne les compte pour rien. En voilà trois: mais peut-être que ce quatrième-ci servit le meilleur de tout. Cela fait tout est fait qui dépend de nous.

### 2. Keir's Metal.6

Enfin j'ai acquis quelques morceaux de la nouvelle composition métallique dont je vous ai tant parlé. Je vous en envoye un sous le

**347.** 1 B.M. III: 12–13. Autograph. Docketed: 'I.B. to S.B. Feby. 7th 1780.'

Addressed: 'A Monsr. / Monsr. Bentham / Gentilhomme Anglois / Mittau / en Courlande / Single Sheet / Post paid 1s.'

2 The Duke of Courland.

3 Johann Jakob Sievers (1731–1801) Russian diplomat and administrator. He was then Governor of Nowgorod-Veliki. Later he was Ambassador to Poland, and in 1793 negotiated the second partition of Poland. He is said to have played an important part in preparing Catherine's *Instructions* of 1767.

4 See letter 346, n. 10.

5 For Orloff cf. letter 255, n. 3; for Repnin, n. 14 below; for Chernyshev, letter 303, n. 9.6 See letter 336 at n. 10.

sceau de cette lettre. On en a fabriqué déjà des *bolts* pour les vaisseaux. On a fait des expériences sur ces *bolts,* pour en connaitre la force et la dureté. On a pris deux de ces bolts avec un de cuivre, tout à fait semblable aux deux autres: on les a appuiés tous trois par les deux bouts sur deux enclumes; on a frappé dessus dans le milieu. Les deux bolts de Keir's-metal ont cédé beaucoup moins que le cuivre: mais enfin un des deux /se cassa en deux/ rompa: l'autre se plia en double tout comme le cuivre. Je tiens cela de Mosberry qui en a été témoin oculaire. Voici quelques autres particularités que je tiens de Raspe. Ld. Sandwich en avait commandé un assortiment pour l'équipement d'un vaisseau. Après cela il en a ordonné des épreuves qui se sont faites en présence de deux membres de la Soc. Roy. le Président Banks et Solander. Ces deux Messrs. ont trouvé ou cru trouver que les bolts au lieu de passer de l'un à l'autre surface des parois du vaisseau, comme font ceux de fer sans perdre de leur diamètre, ont cedé à la réaction du bois de sorte que leur diametre a diminué vers le bout qui s'avançait, en grossissant vers le milieu: comme on dit que fait le cuivre en pareil cas. Là-dessus on a contremandé la commission; au grand mécontentement du particulier qui a *occupé* en cette occasion (comme on dit en termes de Jurisprudence Françoise) pour l'inventeur. Je n'ai pas eu le tems pour examiner plus particulièrement dans le droit de cette affaire: mais je le ferai avec le tems. Il est constant toujours par le rapport de Ramsden que c'est le meilleur métal qu'on a trouvé encore pour les instrumens de Mathématique.

### 3. Offenburg. Raspe

A propos de ce Raspe, je suis très fâché de t'apprendre que c'est un coquin, et que cette *tâche* (qui cependant est plus grosse que nous nous sommes imaginés) n'est pas à beaucoup près le seul qui défigure son caractère. Il a traité d'un facon indigne nos aimables amis Offenberg et Kleist. Lors de leur depart ils lui ont fait présent de la façon la plus généreuse de 50 guinées outre les fraix de voyage, qu'ils ont porté pour lui partout. Après cela mon homme leur a presénté un mémoire où il leur a fait une grosse demande sur je ne sçais quels prétextes en montant de je ne sçais quelle somme: et sur leurs refus, il les a actuellement fait arrêter; et ce n'a été que par l'entremise de Mouschin Pouschkin que l'affaire a été arrangé de façon qu'ils ont pu continuer leur route. C'est ce que j'apprens par le Baron Podmaniezki mais c'étoit à la hâte: aujourd'hui que je vais dîner avec lui, j'en tirerai des détails ulterieurs. J'étois alors à la campagne: Si j'avais sçu l'affaire dans son commencement, je

crois que j'aurois pu leur sauver cet affront. En effet je ne puis que le sentir vivement pour eux: (si tout cela est vrai désormais ce coquin là n'entre plus chez moi). Toutefois je suis bien aise que ce n'est pas un Anglois qui le leur a fait. Je me rappelle maintenant qu'un jour que je disois quelque chose qui marquait mon amitié pour ces deux Messrs. 'Passe' (me dit il) pour Kleist: mais pour Offenberg, il connoit un peu trop bien le monde. Mais comment? (lui repartis-je) mais il ne vouloit rien expliquer.

### 4 Naturalization etc.7

Encore un mot pour votre ami le Polonois. Je ne vous ai pas marqué dans ma dernière (ce que pourtant sans cela vous pourriez aisément vous imaginer) qu'on peut augmenter le nombre des *Trustees* (possesseurs fiduciaires) tant qu'on voudra: cela augmenteroit la sécurité mais en même tems l'embarras. S'il est décidé pour le projet, plutôt il peut envoyer l'argent ici, et mieux il fera. De cette façon on peut guetter les occasions, et acheter des bienfonds dont les proprietaires sont circonstanciés de façon d'être obligé de vendre à un jour marqué. Une grande partie des biens qui se vendent à l'encan sous les ordres de la cour de Chancellerie sont dans ce cas-là. Aussi ce sont eux pour la plupart qui se vendent maintenant au bas prix que je vous indique dans ma dernière: car pour ceux dont le propriétaire peut attendre la voie de la négociation, ils se vendent même à présent à raison de 22 à 24 fois la rente annuelle.

Votre ami sera t'il bien aise de voir son fils Membre de Parlement? Il le pourroit pourvu que ce fils /vint/ venait à naître ici. Quand il s'agit d'un bienfonds au montan〈t〉 de £4000 au £5000 par an, il arriv〈a〉 souvent que cela se trouve dans des circonstances qui donnent au propriétaire une influence sur quelque ville, qui suffit pour les déterminer /les électeurs/ à donner leurs suffrages en faveur de tel représentant qu'il voudra leur nommer. Tantôt ces suffrages sont com〈me〉 attachés à la possession de telle ou telle terre comme dans le cas de M. Townsend8 par rapport à Whitchurch. Tantôt la possession de la terre ne donne au propriétaire qu'un certaine influence, /sur les electeurs/ dont il peut tirer ce profit ou non selon qu'il se leur rend plus ou moins agréable. C'est 〈à la〉 première façon que 〈Li〉nd avoit autrefois un projet pour se placer en Parlement par le secours du Roi de Pologne. Le Roi même (a en juger par quelques

7 See letter 346, n. 2.

8 Thomas Townshend (1733–1800), later Baron and Viscount Sydney, m.p. for Whitchurch 1754–83.

〈lettres〉 de sa part que je vis) paroissoit s'y prêter avec une sorte de plaisir: mais enfin les fonds lui manquèrent.

### 5 Rousseau9

M. Boothby jeune Anglois a été fort lié avec J. J. Rousseau pendant plusieurs années avant la mort de ce dernier. Mons. Rousseau a écrit des Mémoires de sa vie en 3 parties. Il en a confié une à M. Boothby. Elle a pour titre—'L'Histoire de mon âme.' Elle est dédiée à Dieu. Pendant qu'il demeurait à Paris il alla plusieurs fois à l'église de Nôtre Dame pour la déposer sur le Maître autel mais comme il trouva la grille fermée toutes les fois qu'il s'y rendit, il conclut que Dieu n'approuvoit pas de cette facon d'en disposer. Il se decida done à la laisser entre des mains jeunes et pures—(C'étoient ses propres paroles). M. Boothby lui parut digne d'en être le dépositaire, et (après la mort de l'auteur) l'éditeur. Il est actuellement occupé à la faire imprimer à Litchfield où il demeure, et un tiers en est déjà imprimé. Outre l'ouvrage lui-même cette édition contiendra une Préface et des Notes de M. Boothby, Le Dédicace à Dieu par l'auteur, et une espéce d'avant propos aussi par l'auteur, addressé à celui qui auroit pu avoir trouvé le Manuscrit sur l'autel de l'église de N.D. si son projet de l'y déposer avoit reussi—Je tiens tout ceci d'un ami intime de Mr. Boothby, qui a lu une bonne partie du livre. Il est rempli, selon lui, d'idées neuves extravagantes, et singulières—L'Eloquence inimitable de Rousseau y règne partout, et cette éloquence est prodiguée pour persuader le lecteur que tout le monde s'étoit donné le mot, et cela dans tous les pais, pour persécuter l'auteur.10

C'est à l'instance de vôtre frère, et à côté de son feu, que j'écris ce petit *procès verbal,* comme il l'appelle. Je serai véritablement charmé s'il pourra vos amuser. Je vous souhaite autant de plaisir et autant d'instruction dans ce qui reste de vous voyages que vous y avez trouvé jusqu'à présent.

### S. Douglas

### 6. Suede

### [*About one line cut out*]

en Courlande. Vivre avec un Prince, et ce Prince très honnête homme, voilà ce qui est très beau, mais qui ne donne point d'argent,

9 Section 5 in hand of Sylvester Douglas. Below it Jeremy Bentham has written: 'Levascheve Sambouski'.

10 Brooke Boothby (1743–1824), who succeeded his father as seventh baronet in 1789, edited, from a manuscript entrusted to him by Rousseau, *Rousseau juge de Jean-Jacques* (Lichfield, 1780), the first of the dialogues on this theme.

dont (je ne sens que trop bien) qu'avant que votre tour soit fini vous ne scauriez qu'éprouver une furieuse disette. Car pour le projet de créer une marine en Courlande, je conçois bien que cela éprouveroit trop de difficultés. Je serois très fâché que tu n'irois pas en Suède: car je prétends que tu y fasses un cours de Chymie chez Bergman, le plus grand physicien qui soit à présent au monde. J'ai déjà appris de ses ouvrages force choses qui te seroient utiles pour l'Architecture Navale: mais *lire* et *voir* sont choses bien différentes. Pauvre gueux, tu n'auras pas argent pour cela: vraiment ce sera bien dommage.

### 7. Cements.

Il a paru ici depuis quelques semaines un traité sur les ciments par le Professeur de Chymie, Higgins.11 C'est un véritable chef d'œuvre. C'est un parfait trésor surtout pour vous. Il explique toute l'étendue de ce sujet-là par une théorie des plus belles et des plus solides, appuyée par des expériences sans nombre, dont la suite a durée des années entières. Il les a déjà appliquées en grand à la construction des maisons avec le plus grand succès. Ce n'est plus que par curiosité 〈...〉 je voudrai savoir la composition 〈du〉 〈. .〉-*nam* et du Goulgoul des Indes 〈dont on〉 se sert pour /radouber/ conserver[?] les vaisseaux. 〈Je m'〉-adresserai à Randal ou quelque autre qui a des liaisons avec quelques Capitaines de vaisseaux qui font ce commerce pour avoir un morceau, pour qu'on puisse le décomposer et en savoir les ingrédiens. Je t'écrirai plus amplement sur ce sujet-ci, dans une autre lettre.

8.

L'autre jour un Russe qui s'appelle *Levascheve*12 vint me trouver avec une lettre que Sambouski avait écrit en sa faveur: elle est datée à Sheerness le 30 Septre. car dans ce tems-là il ne faisoit encore que partir pour Petersburgh. C'est un garcon de 26 ans qui paroit avoir de bonnes dispositions, et d'être assez bien instruit de ce qui regarde sa patrie. Il est maintenant dans les gardes du corps de l'Impératrice. Il a été envoyé avec des dépêches d'abord à Constantinople, après à Paris, ensuite ici ou 〈i〉l a déjà passé plus d'une année et où il compte passer encore une autre. Avec cel〈a〉

11 Bryan Higgins, m.d. (cf. letter 155 n. 3) *Experiments and Observations made with the view of improving the art of composing and applying calcareous cements and of preparing quick-lime, and specification of the author's...cement,* London, 1780. Not long after publishing this Higgins visited Russia at the invitation of the Empress.

12 For Samuel's reply to this section see letter 353. Nothing further has been discovered about Levascheve.

il s'est appliqué à la Chymie, a la Physique générale, et maintenant il veut que je mette en train pour acquérir quelque idée de la Jurisprudence. Car dit-il on fera de moi un espèce de Juge à mon retour. Il apprend encore le Latin. Son éducation, comme c'est le coutume en Russie, a été entierement négligé lors de son enfance. Son oncle est auprès de sa Maj. Imp. en qualité de Secrétaire.

### 9. Sambouski. Agriculture.

C'est de lui que je viens d'apprendre avec la plus grande satisfaction que l'Impératrice va établir à Petersburgh un Bureau d'Agriculture d'après un projet dressé par Sambouski. Il doit même en être le Directeur. Tout est arrangé selon ses souhaits. Mais vous scaurez tout cela mieux que moi avant peut-être que celle-ci vous parvienne. N'oubliez pas à cette occasion le livre d'*Anderson.*13 Je vais lui écrire là-dessus.

### 10

Je vous parlerai dans ma suivante sur du projet d'aller /d'abord/ à Moscou, avant que d'aller à Petersburgh.14 Il y a long tems que je n'ai pas de vos lettres. Quant à la sympathie, il n'y en a pas pour vous cette fois-ci.

### 10. Lundi ce 7. Fevrier 1780.

Demain je vais à Brompton pour 3 semaines. Tout le monde la se porte bien. Point de réponse encore de Lindegreen.

B.M. III: 3 is a short letter but Bentham's next remark is somewhat odd, unless he means that Samuel's letters are on loan to others.

13 Probably James Anderson's *Essays relating to agriculture and rural affairs,* 3rd ed., 1779 (for Anderson see letter 149, n. 8).

14 Samuel's decision to go to Moscow before proceeding to St Petersburg was first announced in a letter (B.M. III: 3) which he wrote to Jeremy dated from Mittau 12 January. The London postmark is 'IA 31' i.e. 31 January. He says he will tell Jeremy subsequently of the many advantages he promises himself from a fortnight's stay in Moscow. He transcribes a letter he has written to Count Pushkin (formerly Russian Ambassador in England) asking for an introduction to his mother in Moscow, and hoping to meet the Count himself if he is there. He also sends Jeremy the draft of a letter in French which he wants Lind to write on his behalf to Prince Repnin, General in Chief of her Imperial Majesty, Governor-General of Smolensk etc. Lind had already furnished him with one letter of introduction to the Prince but Samuel has been advised by a Frenchman that as the letter stands at present, deficient in various formalities, it will earn Samuel little regard, but altered as in the draft the Prince will be ready to serve him. 'What I command you to do is to go immediately to him fall down before him and kiss the earth then with tears flowing in abundance intreat him by all the ties imaginable to copy this letter word for word and letter for letter and inclose it for me at Petersburgh immediately.'

11.

Je viens de faire connoissance (par le moyen de Podmanieski) avec un certain Comte de Schönberg,15 très honnête garçon de 20 à 22 ans. Il est de l'Electorat de Saxe. Marquez-moi si dans vos voyages vous avez entendu parler de cette famille. Elle est très repandue dit-on, en ce pays-là. 〈On〉 les reçoit ici lui et le Baron dans nos meilleures maisons. Le Roi ici s'entretenant avec eux (ce qu'il fait en 〈de〉 très bon Allemand) leur a parlé entre autres choses de Götingen où ils ont étudié. Il connaît tous les Professeurs, leurs femmes, leurs enfans et tout l'intérieur de leur ménage. C'est un trait parfaitement charactéristique.  It was only last Saturday that I happened to know that those Books had been carried to another friend of mine thro' mistake. I was very sorry for the accident, and I hope you have not been in want of them during such a long delay. I take this opportunity for inquiring after your Brother, and I have the honour to be

Sir

Your most obedient Servant J. Poli

Monday, 14 February 1780.

15 Unidentified.

**348.** 1 B.M. III: 14–15. Autograph. Docketed: '1780 Feb 14 / Poli South Street to I.B. Linc. Inn. Returns Pilati.'

Addressed: 'Mr Bentham / N. 6 Old Buildings, Lincolns Inn.'

Poli was evidently returning Bentham a copy of *Voyages en diffèrents pays de l'Europe ...*(The Hague, 1777), by the Italian jurist Pilati di Tassulo. For Poli see letter 312, n. 2 and letter 325 at n. 7.

 In this situation she was left to remain till killed either by the vermin which came about her or some such effect as uncertain with respect to time. Victuals she was provided with to prevent her from starving. Sometimes a woman has been known to live in this state for 8 or 10 days.

With respect to husbands who had murdered their wives, they were sent to do pennance, viz, to pay certain fines to the priests put on a different dress and say a certain number of prayers.

He has himself known a man mix in Society without any sense of shame after having killed 3 wives one after the other through jealousy and expiated each crime by such pennance. At present now capital punishments except in cases of treason are entirely abolished. Murders are more frequent in Russia than ever. This by the bye I must have some other credence of than his Highness's word. I will not fail to enquire about the proportion.

### 2

The day before yesterday I went by invitation to another of the Duke's country houses.2

**349.** 1 B.M. III: 8–9. Autograph. Docketed: '1780 Jan 29 / S.B. Riga to I.B. Lincoln's Inn / Free-Masonry.'

Addressed: 'Jere:y Bentham Esqr. / Lincoln's Inn / London / Franco à Amsterdam.' London Postmark: 'MR/6.'

2 About half the letter is omitted at this point. Samuel talks of his hope of establishing a 'connection' with the Duke, who has presented him with a gold medal, but he must visit Russia first. He urges Bentham 'to send a copy of Punishments and Code as soon as they are published in German', and hopes that they may come in his parcel to St Petersburg. He has been received into the Free Masons with the help of Baron Medern, and this will be very useful in Russia. If Bentham ever comes to Russia he too should become a Mason, but in St Petersburg, not in London. He has received letters 342 and 343 and comments on various matters raised therein. He is 'infinitely obliged' to his father for the financial offers made in the latter, but his present plans do not require immediate capital. Kleist has heard from his son that he has been successful in a lawsuit against Raspe for exorbitant charges for accompanying him on his travels (cf. letter 347, § 3).

### Patents

How much does it cost and by what means may one get copies of Patents which have been taken out for Inventions? In this way one might get perhaps perfect descriptions, so as to profit by them in foreign countries. The Metal or the wax for example might be made here but probably Copies are not to be had till the expiration of the terms.

We all believe here that poor Captain Cook is murdered on an Island near Kamshatka.

About 10 days ago I sent you in a letter a copy of a new letter which I begd Lind to write for me to P. Repnin.

With respect to Code, you may satisfy yourself that I shall have very favourable opportunities of getting it presented to the Empress. There is no doubt but I shall be presented to her. I will take upon me now the air of all-sufficiency and tell you to leave that affair to me and trouble yourself no more about it than to send me the book. If you were to wish to give her any manuscript letter with it, write the letter immediately and send it me for *my approbation* and *correction* for it is ten to one that I *let* it go such as you would have it.3

I hope to inform myself before this post goes out whether the Empress reads English or not. in the mean time I will give you a little account of my views here.

The D. you must know wants somebody to do his Mercantile business for him in England, to execute his Commissions, to send him intelligence of different kinds and in short to be his chargè d'affaires. M. Pouskin had recommended Newman4 to him for this purpose, and the D. had accordingly lodged some money in his hands and given him some Commissions.

The D. shewed me a good while ago a letter which he had just received from N in which N desired to know if he was to continue to execute his commissions insisting at the same time on an immediate answer as he had other things of equal importance to himself to manage. Upon this occasion D. told me that N was not the man who suited him, that he had made abominable blunders in executing his commissions and besides that as he did not at all like his new master Simolin, he wished to have no further connection with him. At the same time he talked to me of the extension of the trade between

3 This paragraph has been crossed right through with two diagonal lines in red ink, probably by Jeremy Bentham.

4 Newman was secretary to Musin Pushkin, the Russian Ambassador until recently, and to his successor Simolin (cf. letter 344, p. 370).

th〈is〉 country and England and that he as a *reigning* Prince 〈...〉 could give a man in that station an appointment which should be honourable and quelques cents de livres per an〈num〉. I enlarged a little upon the qualifications which a man 〈should〉 have to fill such a place, and was agoing and even had almost proposed Lindegren when as usual we were interrupted and nothing more was said. Since that time I have had opportunities of judging what there would be to do for such a chargè des affaires. He would have to execute the commissions not only for the D but for the Nobility also by which he would get so much pr. Ct. without the least hazard. He would have the direction of the Studies and the superintending of the young men who the D. may from time to time send over. He would have to send account of new inventions and to introduce on all occasions possible English manufactories. He would also have other things to manage which would be profitable but which I cant very well now explain to you.

After a full consideration of the matter I am of opinion that this place would suit me very well that it would be a very agreeable one and that the D would give me the preference to any one he knows. You may think then that I have nothing to do but to offer my services and that of course they would be accepted and all be settled immediately. But this is by no means the case, as much management is necessary to bring such a matter about as if I had no reason at all on my side. One great thing in my favour is that D consults nobody on such matters. I shall write to him from Petersburg when I see how matters go there: but I am not without hopes of better fortune further North. Adieu. Work hard at Punishments.

If you see anything of Mosberry ask him how he goes on with his German.

The management of the Academy is also a matter which I have my eye upon, in case I should succeed in the other more Principal matter, though alone it would be nothing. There are nine Professors to some of which the D. gives 200£ a year besides perquisites. There are also a multitude of other expenses and all turned to very little account. I am sure *we* could direct it much better. I dined yesterday with Kreudner the Russian Minister here and took an opportunity of enquiring if the Empress reads English. Yes— She does. besides reading English news papers She has her favourite English books of which Fielding's Joseph Andrews seems to have the preference. If she loves bawdy there will be a little no doubt in Code and Punishments. You must send me 2 or 3 Copies of the English and ½ a dozen at least of the German Translation.

As to my health at present it is pretty good. I have been better in my life but not since I left Holland.

It plagues me to see how much money I have spent yet I have both studied and practised Oeconomy very m〈uch〉. I will confess to you that upwards of twenty pounds I have spent in a useless manner for want of a little more fore〈sight the〉 greater part of it however at a time when on account of my bad health I was more excusable. I have lost nothing worth mentioning except the *shirt bosom pin* of which Mr. Davies gave us one apiece. It was stolen from me at Berlin I believe by a female hand.

Not a word have I heard from Lindegren. Do ask him if he did not receive a letter from me which I beg'd him to answer immediately directing to this place?

Have you had no parcel from Hanbury?

This young lady whom I mentioned in one of my letters from this place as one that people here choose to say I was in love with, has an amazing fortune for this country, though it scarcely excedes thirteen thousand pounds sterling. If I was really in love with her, it is probable I should succede but as that is not the case I dont much think I shall bring you a sister in law from Courland. Of all the girls I have seen since I left England Huzarzewski's5 daughter of Dantzic would please me the most for a wife. She was all accomplished all softness and pretty if not beautifull: but the old fellow will I suppose want a fortune equal to what he will give his daughter, a certain degree of rank also, and a French man rather than an Englishman. You must look out for somebody for me against I come home if I dont suit myself abroad. Alas the vain shadow of Miss *Martin* or some such name.

Riga Jany. 29th. Here am I at last in the dominions of the Empress. The instant I entered Livonia I thought of our friend Lohmenn. I am not however yet quit of Mittau. I left it this morning but must return there again the day after tomorrow and stay till the 6th which is the Dutchess's birthday. The 7th I shall pass through this place again but without stopping longer than to take horses. Passes, Permission to take horses etc. etc. I shall settle now, that I may meet with no delay in my way. Perhaps you may not hear from me again till I get to Moscow: but from Petersburg you shall often.

5 See letter 345, n. 2. Samuel's next letter (B.M. III: 10) dated 4–11 February from Mittau, and 18 February from Riga, and not published here, acknowledges letter 345 and gives some account of his stay in Danzig in response to Jeremy's complaint therein. In the same letter Samuel wishes that Jeremy could 'see a little *more of the world,* before you engage in any public business whatever.'

### J e r e m y B e n t h a m t o S a m u e l B e n t h a m 1

### 30 March–4 April 1780 (Aet 32)

### 2 Allen to Burkit

### Pembroke 17th of Febry. 1780

### [*Insertion by Bentham:* See No 15]

Sir

399

I remember you formerly mention'd thro' Mr. Marshal that a person of his acquaintance had offer'd 70£ or Guineas for the 1st Rate Model and case which I then thought—and still do not worth acceptance; but if the said party or any other person of honour will deposit with you or Mr. Marshal 100 Guineas, tho' not half the value, I will ingage to ship the same in good condition for London, and consign the said Model and Case to the purchaser; the Risque of damage per voyage, Capture by the Enemy, all accidents and charge of Freight (the whole of which on such advantagious an offer I think triffling) to be ingaged for by the purchaser—I will consult the other proprietors on, and think I may engage for the bargain. Please when in your power to let me know if these terms are approved; worse will not be accepted

> I am Sir your obliged Hble Servant J Allin

P.S. the Vendor to have right to claim the 100 Guineas on bringing proof of the said Model and case being shipped and consign'd where order'd, with the best account he can procure when the Ship, who received them proceeded on her Voyage.

2. From Lindegreen to I.B.

Portsmouth 25th Feby. 1780

Dear Sir

I was in London about 3 weeks ago on very particular business and intended to have waited on you in order to have had a long

**350.** 1 B.M. III: 23–26. Partly autograph, partly in Mrs Davies's hand. Numbering of paragraphs is autograph.

2 These first two sections are in Mrs Davies's hand. The first section is a copy of a letter from Allin, a shipwright at Chatham to Samuel's friend Burket, about a model of the flagship *Victory* which he has for sale. Section 15 shows that Bentham hoped Samuel might pocket a handsome sum as middleman in selling the model to some Russian.

conversation with you on the subject of your and your Brothers interresting letters. unfortunately I was obliged to quit London before I could effect my business or have the pleasure of seeing you. I proposed being in town the middle of this month, but the Cartel business for the french prisoners detain'd me, and I now fear it will not be in my power to be in London before the middle of next month till which time it would be very wrong to detain the letters you was so obliging to permit me the perusal of, therefore must send you, what I proposed delivering myself—My friend Lohmen has often mention'd to me about sending them—to tell you the truth I do not reconcile it to myself sending them at all and shall be anxious till you acknowledge the receipt of them—I do not like sending what are so very interresting to you and myself more so on account of having been in those countries and your Brother will never forgive me should they be lost—I however flatter myself they will come safe to your hands—I shall write your Brother under your cover by next post—I am a very bad correspondent indeed to him—But the hurry of the business I am ingaged in prevents my attention to my friends and may make them think they are forgotten and neglected when had I an opportunity I should convince them to the contrary

and believe me ever to be

etc.

A Lindegreen

33

Names of the persons concerned in drawing up the Empress of Russia's Code of Regulations for the Government of Sievers' province—pr Lohmen.

1. Jacob Sievers, then a Colonel (now Govr. General) a Livonian.

2. Baron Fursen[?], a Land-rath in Livonia.

3. ...Bemern /then or now?/ President of the Chief College of Justice at Petersburgh—a Prussian.

4. ... Liewenhaupt—a Livonian.4

5 4. G. W. Grove to Q.S.P.

Dear Brother

I am greatly obliged to you for the opportunity you have given me of being acquainted with Sam's situation for which I began to

3 Section 3 is in Bentham's hand.

4 For Sievers cf. letter 347, n. 3. The other persons listed are unidentified.

5 Sections 4–8 are in Mrs Davies's hand.

〈have〉 some uneasy apprehensions. As soon as I received your Paquet I could not leave off till I had read it through as every succeeding letter gave me additional pleasure and entertainment. The reception and civilities he has received from so many Strangers are amazing. The recommendations he and his friends had procured for him and more particularly his capacity and address in supporting them with due honor and credit exceed my most sanguine expectations. a Court seems as easy and familiar to him as a Coffee house, but the caresses he receives at the former, which would divert the minds of most young men to gaiety and pleasure, seem to sharpen his attention to business. His plan for this Excursion appears to me now more extensive than I at first imagined, and I am glad to find he has spirit and address sufficient to carry him through it. When he has been at Petersburgh I suppose he will begin to form some conclusions from the Event of his Excursion for I do not observe that he mentions any thing of that kind except an inclination of entring into partnership at Liebau. Sam is undoubtedly a better judge than myself of what advantage he can make from this excursion and I shall be perfectly satisfied in his determination, but I must own my affection for him makes me wish that he may find it as suitable to him to settle in England as abroad. As I have mention'd Petersburgh it reminds me of Mr. Lind's recommendatory letter to the Dutchess of K which drew a smile from me; had the Dutchess or the E—s been some years younger his letter might have borne a Jocular interpretation. 'Tho I have read the letters through, I am so pleased with them that I must read them over again at more leisure and will return the Book to you in a few days, I believe the perusal of it will be very acceptable to Mr. Mulford, for Sam I suppose is too much engaged to keep up a correspondence with him. I believe Mr. Mulford has a regard for him which I hope Sam will endeavor to cultivate.

When you hear further from Sam I wish you would acquaint me with it, it will give me great pleasure to hear of his welfare and success.

#### Si6 4\*

### Morning Chronicle March 10 1780

〈...〉sday several curious experiments were tried at Woolwich for setting fire to the shipping at certain distances, which though

6 The deleted 'Si' is Bentham's symbol that something is written there in sympathetic ink, but no such writing is revealed by ultra-violet light. The same applies to the undeleted 'Si' at section 9.

deservedly applauded through some accident fell short of the expected efficacy.

5

### Morning Chronicle March 10 1780

### Navy Office March 10 1780

The principal Officers and Commissioners of his Majesty's Navy give notice that they will be ready to treat with such Persons as are willing to contract for the stores undermentioned for his Majesty's service on the days against the same express'd at 12 o Clock at noon that they may attend with their proposals accordingly Viz Iron and tar Monday 27 March 1780 Dantzick and Stetten goods Wednesday 29 Ditto.

Riga Masts fryday 31st Ditto

Hemp Monday 3d of April

[*Insertion in Bentham's hand:* This has been frequently repeated]

6

The little gold Heart which you had lost is found in an old pocket Book

E. D.

### Morning Chronicle March the 13 1780

Saturday last passed the Great Seal a grant for a patent to John Champion of Newcastle Court, St Clement Danes, in the county of Middlesex, Locksmith, for his new invented alteration of Locks and latches in general, as not to be pick'd or open'd but with the key made for them—

7

March the 16 1780 Price 1s this day is publish'd Observations and remarks respecting the more effectual means of preservation of wounded Seamen and Mariners on board his majesty's Ships in time of Action.

By J Rymer S R N printed for J Donaldson on Strand.7

### 8 Pressure of Sea Water

From Bergmanni Opuscula 8 1779 Tractatus etc. De Aquâ Pelagicâ.8

Andrew Sparrman Dr. of Physic who with the Forster's lately visited the Southern Ocean and there with indefatigable industry

7 Bentham's transcription of the title is exact. The author was James Rymer, a surgeon, and a second edition was published in 1782.

8 Torbern Olof Bergman, *Opuscula physica et chemica,* Vol. 1, 1779, p. 179.

investigated together with his Associates the wonderfull riches of nature tryed (in the course of his navigation from the cape of good hope to Europe) to discover the qualities of Sea Water drawn from great depths. Several bottles well and closely cork'd were succesively sunk in the beginning of July 1776 about the latitude of the Canary Islands. One bottle drawn up from a depth of 80 /(orgyiæ)/ fathoms was found broken by the pressure of the Water in the part where the Neck begins to swell. In another, which was let down only thirty fathom, the Cork was driven in a little farther: but not as to have let in any of the water: it was therefore let down a second time, to the depth of sixty fathom; and was then drawn up fill'd with the Water up to a third part of the height of the Neck: where the Cork stuck fast, perfectly excluding the Water from without. In this way a number of Bottles were fill'd which Dr Sparrman brought home for me to examine.

[*Addendum in Bentham's hand:* It seems that when the cork had been driven so far down instead of being drawn quite in it gave way a little, just enough to let the water pass it.

This is to assist you in reading the above volume, which you must get, for the sake of the Essay De indagando vero: and that de Analysis aquarum.

### 1010 Dr. Robertson Empress

By a Gentleman lately arrived from St Petersburgh the Empress has sent to Dr. Robertson11 a present of a very handsome gold Snuff box, richly set with diamonds desiring his acceptance of it, as

9 Section 9 is autograph. It ends the first sheet, which is docketed (in Bentham's hand?): '1780 March 31 / I.B. / E.D. to S.B.' It is also docketed (by Lady Bentham?): 'March 30 1780.'

10 Section 10 is in Mrs Davies's hand.

11 William Robertson (1721–92), the distinguished Scottish historian. The gold snuff-box was presented for his *History of the Reign of the Emperor Charles V* (1770).

a mark of her esteem, and of the satisfaction she has received from perusing his historical works. Her Imperial Majesty during her reign has not confin'd her encouragement of literary merit to her own dominions. Several eminent persons of France and Germany have been distinguish'd by marks of her favor. Dr. Robertson as far as we know is the first British author who has been honour'd with any mark of her attention.

Morning Chronicle March 25 1780

### 1211

### Bull Inn Dartford Thursday March 30th 1780

I am thus far (half-horse-man, half footman as usual) on my way to London from Brompton where I have been ever since about the 6th or 7th (I think it was) of last month. The day before I left London I sent you a letter, the last of those directed to you at Mittau. I have appointed to dine with Wilson at the Crown and Rolls to meet Anderson, who has been in London for this month past. He came to town the day Wilson left it to go to the *Norfolk* Circuit. Wilson likes his new circuit much: he has made 5 guineas to begin with.

### 12. Anderson

From this same Inn I finished and sent away my long neglected letter to Anderson, telling him of Sambouski's success, and offering him your assistance in getting him an account of the plan: and agricultural correspondence, if he wanted any, at Petersburgh. You know he is quite one of us: if occasion should offer I shall depend upon every thing you can do to serve him.

[*Addendum in red ink:* N.B. I have seen him since: he does not want any thing at present.]

### 13. I.B. at Brompton.

I have been passing my time very comfortably at Brompton; more so perhaps than any time I ever spent there before mixing exercise business and amusement. On horse-back every day between 7 and 9: between breakfast and dinner employ'd as you may imagine: between dinner and tea, Chess, Music or *Bergman,* about half an hour or ¾ before Tea commonly a game at Cricket with Joseph,13 in which we were frequently joined by his father: after 10: Chess or Music.

12 The remainder of the letter is autograph.

13 Mr and Mrs Davies's son.

### 14. Bergman translated.14

Guess what I mean by 'Bergman'. Bergman means a sugar-plum which I have been coddling up for you to pop into his mouth; that you may find favour in his sight even as Jacob did in that of his Father Isaac by cramming him with Scotch-collops. Schwediauer has lately imported a little tract of Bergman's of about 100 12mo pages (in German) on the chemical arrangement of bodies, and on the application of Chemistry to the common purposes of life. I wanted sadly to see it: Davies had been talking to me about applying himself a little to Chemistry. Schwede disappointed in the former scheme seemed to hanker after something of mine to set his name to. Davies was willing to lend a hand, but his time indispensably engrossed by his pursery affairs. The result of all this is that in the course of the time I have been at Brompton Bergman has been translated, by S. from German into Lingua Franca, by J.B. from Lingua Franca into English, J.B. walking up and down the room after dinner and dictating, E.D. (who you find has since got the place of J.B.'s secry. in ordinary) scribbling. I believe I shall send you the whole lot of it together, Swed's Ms. my Ms, and certain copies, 4 or 6, out of about a couple of dozen I am to have for my pains. I have written an Advertisement of about ¾ of a ruled sheet, stating the history of the translation, and flattering Bergman. I have in my pocket a sheet of 'Inserenda of' Preface palavering Chemistry and Bergman, and bobragging our nation but more particularly the Universities for not cultivating it. I shall probably make it up into a Preface to the tune of from 10 to 20 pages. It cost me no time whatever: I never did a stich to it at any other time than dinner, when I knew by experience that I could not work without disordering myself. How I have sped with Code you will know before I close this letter.

### 15. Model.

Key to Allen's letter. My scheme is that you should make people there beg the model giving £200 for it which will be £100 for

14 The manuscript of this translation is now in U.C. clvi. It is entitled 'Tobern Bergman's Introduction to Lectures on the State and Usefulness / Utility / of Chemistry and the most general varieties / differentiae / *of natural bodies.* Translated from the German by F. Schwediauer m.d.' It is preceded by an Advertisement and fragments of a Preface in Bentham's own hand.

An anonymous translation of this work was published by J. Murray of No. 32 Fleet Street in 1783 under the title *An Essay on the Usefulness of Chemistry and its application to the various occasions of Life translated from the Original of Sir Tobern Bergman.* There is no translator's preface. It seems to be a quite different version (see also letter 356).

yourself. I understand from Burkit that it is an *unique,* and upon a fair calculation of the labour cost £300. I shall write to you in French an ostensible letter about it. The Lord knows, but I should imagine they would jump at it.

### 16. News Instructions

Whenever you write tell me regularly whether there are any naval preparations going forward where you are, and in general mention any other circumstances from which it is probable that we shall or shall not have your assistance. Negatives will be as well worth sending as affirmatives. Well it is true I should be pushing on, and so Good morrow to you.

### 17. Fir Timber.

From Arthur Young's Tour thro' Ireland 1780. 4to in the Crit. Review for Feby. 1780.

(Ld. Bective) 'confirmed what Mr. Young had been told before, that the way to make our own firs equal to foreign, is to cut them in June, and directly lay them in water for 3 or 4 months. This was done by his Lordship's father 35 years ago, and the buildings raised of them are now fully equal to those built of *Norway* fir.'

I suppose that the case is, that the firs being cut when the sap is abundant, that is when the extractive mucilaginous matter is in the state of a dilute solution, the water mixes with it and washes it out easier than when the mucilage is coagulated and the pores of the wood closed by cold. J.B. There are some more anecdotes in it relative to machines such as corn mills etc., which seem likely to be interesting to you. You must endeavour to see it. Some of the people in Russia, Kruze for example, I take it for granted, will have it. The price is 1 Guinea.

### 18. Moscow Scheme.

Friday evening March 31. 1780.

I have not yet seen Q.S.P. I shall dine there however tomorrow: mean time let me give you a scolding about your Moscow expedition, from which I know before hand that no good will come. It is some wild-goose chase, castle-building scheme, which you are asham'd of, else you would not for three letters together have been 〈. . .〉ing yourself to keep me in the dark about 〈it〉, talking all the while in parables. What in the Devil's name can you be the better for any connection which you must go to Moscow to make?

What can you have to expect from any body but Czernichef, Greig etc., or some other of the Admiralty folks? Your confident in all this business the French man whose name you take care not to mention is no other than your French servant: and one of the effects of your devotion to this oracle is the blackguardism with which you began your letter to M. Pousckin, in stiling him in the vocative case, Votre Excellence: just as if in English you were to begin with Good your Lordship, or Your honour: so at least it appeared to me and Wilson, and Douglas, whose opinion on such matters is worth ten times both ours put together.15 Q.S.P. grumbles cursedly at this damned expedition, and I have not a syllable to say for it, except the inculcating in general terms the duty of implicit confidence in your worship's superior understanding. I suppose we shall have him grumbling more, now that two more letters are come which make the darkness still more obscure.16 Possibly your idea of getting to be the D's Agent may smooth him down a little that being the very idea that had occurred to him.

### 19. Agency.

My fear is that that same agency will have been disposed of, before you find a proper time for applying for it. Possibly the Czernicheffian pupil scheme might combine with it: if so it would be a very comfortable affair. I have written *pus* for a letter for you: see the other Sheet.

### 20. Wilson's letter and I.B.'s

By your not acknowledging it I am sadly afraid that you did not receive a letter of Wilson's17 which went from hence the same

15 See letter 347, n. 14 for the letter to Count Pushkin in which the 'blackguardism' occurs, and for a reference to the Frenchman. Bentham's view that he is Samuel's servant is based on Samuel's saying in his letter of 4–18 February (see letter 349, n. 5) that he has two men of learning as servants, one master of French, the other allegedly of German.

16 Letter 349 and the letter mentioned in n. 5 thereto.

17 This very long letter recounting the public news of the day is in B.M. III (pp. 6–7) and is dated 'Lincoln's Inn 18 Jany. 1780'. It includes the following passage:

'Voici une grande lettre—Comme je ne me soucie pas 〈de〉 grammaire et que mon manuscrit est un peu difficile 〈il〉 〈se〉 peut que vous n'en viendrez a bout tout a fait.  Je lui a demandé la meme chose plusieurs fois sans pouvoir obtenir aucun eclaircissement sur le temps ou l'on puisse les attendre, et cela suffit meme pour le mettre en courroux—D'ou je conclus que la Code va un peu lentement. La raison est qu'il fait trop de ehoses a la fois, non qu'il est oisif—Il commence a ecrire du Code mais dans une heure il a ecrit sur vingt autres sujets, et tout cela pour ne pas perdre des idées, qui se presenteroient sans doute de nouveau, et qu'il a peutetre deja dans des papiers

night with my first ostensible one enclosing a sham letter directed to Miss Paris.18 It was exceedingly long, and contained a monstrous deal of excellent political information. I fear there has been no means of making my subsequent ostensible letters (of which I think there were two) pass through the hands of the Duke.

21.

No parcel yet from Hanbury.

### 22

A parcel from Strachan containing a letter from him, a note from De Court, your *will,* and sundry book catalogues. The delay has been occasioned by some thing that happen'd to the ship they were first put on board of.

### 23 Sunday Newspapers.

What think you of a Sunday news-paper? how will your pious spirit grieve! Such a paper is actually publishing every Sunday morning in Fleet Street.19

### 24

Now we talk of news papers, I desire that you would take particular care to inform yourself as soon as possible what Newspapers they are which the E. takes in. [*Addendum:* In order to make sure to get a sight of one of them.] You may imagine divers reasons for wishing to know this [*Insertion:* Appear not to have any particular reason for enquiring: rather mention by way of blind the goodness of the Morn. Chron. as if you wanted to recommend it.] Ask particularly whether the Morning Chronicle is among them: which is the best[?] of all possible papers.

### Saty. April 1st 1780

Q.S.P. has been with me this morning and has been reading your two Riga letters. Beyond all hope he was much pleased with them and did not say a syllable expressive of any vexation about the

18 See letter 346 and nn. 1 and 10.

ecrits il y a long temps et oubliés. Je suis persuadé que le seul moyen praticable c'est de faire un livre a la fois 〈et〉 〈de〉 rejetter tout idée qui n'appartient pas au sujet— Mais je ne puis lui persuader cette conduite—'

19 This was *The British Gazette* started by Mrs E. Johnson in Ludgate Hill. The earliest issue known to be extant is N. 66, 24 June 1781 (it is in the Burney collection at the British Museum). It was the first London Sunday newspaper. After several changes of name it came to an end in 1829.

article of expence. While he was with me came in also my Uncle: who has been in town this fortnight after having been in the country 11 months. Q.S.P. after having received back his transcript of your letters from my Uncle sent them to the Dr. from whom came yesterday a letter expressing his highest satisfaction with them, and apologizing for keeping them till the beginning of May when he comes to town. Then shall I at him for money for your honour: and if all other expedients fail we will have the whole Trinity meet together in Parliament assembled, to consider about ways and means.

### Code.

Know that this very blessed morning I gave Hughes20 some of the Copy of Code to print. But the length of time it will take up I tremble to think of. It is in 4to. I can get but 3 sheets a week. The Introduction, containing what is common to Jurisprudence and Ethics I will send you before the rest. It will contain all the general principles.

### Alliance.

We have it here that you are going to send us 15 sail of the line, and 6 frigates to our assistance, as soon as the ice permitts: tell me what you can learn about that matter.21

### Progress.

I heard a man say just now that the Empress was to set out upon a progress through her dominions in May next. Tell me what you hear about that affair.

### Fir-Ships.

The great difficulty is or at least used to be at Petersburgh to get Oak. It used, it is said, to be brought an immense way. I think from Astracan. Qu. could not fir be made to answer the purpose being well bedded and cased all over, partly in Tarras, partly in Higgins's hard cements? It might likewise by the same means be render'd incombustible upon Ld. Mahon's plan.

In my next I shall send you a letter for Kitty: that you may return it with observations: but I don't much like the thoughts of

20 Henry Hughes, printer, Great Turnstile, Lincoln's Inn Fields. Evidently he was printing the *Introduction* for Payne.

21 The Empress Catherine had in fact refused the British alliance in January (cf. Isabel de Madariaga, *Britain, Russia and the Armed Neutrality of 1780,* London, 1962, Chap. 5).

your taking into consultation God knows who may thwart it under hand, or spoil it bonâ fide by destroying the originality of it, and cramping it by forms which a foreigner is not expected to understand nor on such an occasion would be thought the better for observing.

If people there should be inclined to have the model, take care you do not engage for it without a positive order from them in writing. This if they mean really to buy it they can not object to giving.  Take care that you do not appear to be otherwise than indifferent about their buying it. If they shou'd be for employing Newman to get it, Burkit must be the man for him to be addressed to. Burkit I am persuaded wou'd join in the business, as he gave me something of a hint about it, though not till after it had occurred to me. He said he was sure that if Allen knew who it was designed for he would not part with it under £500. This was upon my proposing at first to tell Allen of my writing in order to induce him to wait till an answer might come.

 The best way is 〈...〉 〈...〉 〈. . .〉 〈. . .〉 by which they may see that your in possession of such or such a piece of information; and then leave it to them to ask you for it if they think proper: or you might cause it to be insinuated by a third hand (S. for example)23 that you are in possession of such and such things, and he might appear to be concerting with them the properest means of getting them out of you. If they ask you directly to tell them so and so without offering you any thing, you may turn

23 Probably Sambouski.

22 Ultraviolet light does reveal a longish passage in sympathetic ink written between about the next twenty lines, but only odd bits of it can be made out, such as 'that the salts of the sea will corrode' 'The paper marked at' 'found to' 'nothing but brown paper' 'I was so struck' 'a contrivance which' 'the varnishing'. In a letter completed on 24 April O.S. (see letter 360, n. 6) Samuel writes: 'What a ninny you were to give yourself so much trouble in writing and me in reading about Copper Sheathing and Guns. What was there secret in that? It has cost me a monstrous deal of time, to say nothing of the anxiety least I should not make it all out.' Bentham certainly had a love of secrecy.

it off without affronting them or affecting incommunicativeness by saying if it is a matter of instruction that is wanted 'cela n'est l'affaire d'un moment; or cela demande du tems a expliquer: if a paper you are in possession of, you may pretend not to be able to find it: then, in order to induce you to be at the trouble of giving the instructions or finding the paper, they may make you offers.

### Code.

The Introduction to Code containing the metaphysical part and all the general principles I shall send you as soon as it is printed without waiting for the rest. It will make a little bit of a work by itself: and who knows? probably it might be advisable to present that first.24 It will be printed in the same letter and sized paper as the Gentoo Code.25

In my next will probably be a Wilsonian list of the Navy—I shall write soon: probably in a post or two.

Si Tuesday morning April 4

 Lindegreen has just been calling on me pressing me much to go and spend a week with him: up to the chin in business with 21 prizes to take care of. He has been enquiring of a Comr. of the Victualling: he has no particular answer to give to the queries, but says in general that there are no provisions but what can not be imported by law, or what it will not answer to import: that biscuit for instance can not now be imported: and that as to portable soup very little is used, and what is used can not be made cheaper any where than here. All this you see is very vague: if upon any particular occasion it should be worth while, I will go down and canvass the matter with him compleatly.

The powder-room of the Spanish prize-line of battle ships he [says] is close to the gun room: the powder stow'd in bulk; and served up open in buckets.

Malgré26 la confiance dont il a plu à V.A. de m'honorer, et les bontés en tout genre dont elle a bien voulu me combler, je ne crois pas qu'elle s'attend que j'osasse /prétendre/ 〈en〉 entamer une correspondence avec elle. En voici la raison. Depuis le jour où il a

24 This seems to be the first suggestion that the *Introduction* might be separately published—as, of course, did in fact happen, though not until 1789, when it appeared as *An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation.*

25 See letter 223 (29 July 1777).

26 This is a draft for a letter Samuel is to write to the Duke of Courland proposing himself as the Duke's English agent. Except for the final paragraph, it is on a sheet docketed: 'April 1 1780 I.B. to S.B.'

plu à V.A. de me parler du besoin où elle est d'une personne /homme/ de confiance /au quel (qu) elle pourroit confier le soin de/ ses affaires en Angleterre, je n'ai cessé de /réfléchir sur ce qu'elle m'a dit à cette occasion:/ et enfin je me suis enhardi /résolu/ au point d'oser /dire/ très humblement à V.A. que je /serois/ le plus heureux des hommes, si /je pourrois faire ensorte que V.A. me crût capable de remplir cette charge./ Je sens très bien que ma jeunesse et le peu d'expérience que j'ai dans le négoce pourroient très bien donner lieu à des /présomptions/ qui ne me seroient pas favorables: mais de l'autre côté il y a des circonstances qui ne me permettent pas absolument de perdre absolument tout /espérance./ Si je ne me trompe pas, il ne s'agit pas ici d'une longue expérience ni de combinaisons très compliquées en fait de négoce: il ne s'agit que de commander et de payer; opérations qui n'exigent que des /talens/ auxquels /on pourroit/ prétendre sans trop risquer /d'être accusé/ de vanité. Les qualités principalement requises ne sont que de la probité et l'industrie: qualités dans lesquelles je ne crains pas /que personne/ me trouve /déficient:/ surtout dans un cas comme celui dont il s'agit. Il y a encore /un point sur lequel/ je pourrois encore sans trop de vanité m'attribuer /la supériorité/ sur 〈par-dessus〉/ quelque autre Anglois que ce soit: c'est /l'occasion/ que j'ai eu pendant un séjour de deux mois d'être auprès la personne de V.A. et d'en étudier les goûts. Encore un avantage qui m'appartient plus qu'à un autre: c'est que je serois le plus /ingrat/ des hommes, si je venois perdre le souvenir des bontés de V.A. et qu'ainsi par-dessus celui d'intérêt j'aurois encore le motif de reconnoissance pour m'animer et me disposer à mettre tout le /mon/ zèle possible à remplir dignement les fonctions de ma /cette/ charge. Outre cela j'aurois le loisir, qui manqueroit presque infailliblement à quasi tout homme qui en fait d'expérience /à quelques autres egards/ pourroit être plus digne. Si c'étoit en faveur d'un autre que V.A. se déterminât, ou cet autre n'auroit point d'autre négoce à faire, en quel cas il ne seroit que sur un même pied avec moi: où il en aura, et en ce cas là il seroit toujours possible qu'il pourroit négliger celle dont il s'agit en faveur de ces autres affaires négliger celui-ci. Pour moi, n'ayant pas d'autres affaires de la sorte, je me donnerois tout /naturellement/ et sans effort à ceux de V.A. d'autant plus, que le salaire qu'elle a destiné d'accorder, ôteroit le besoin qu'on pourroit avoir de chercher d'autres affaires, en le mettant à l'abri de l'incertitude a l'égard du profite qui pourroit en revenir.

Lorsque je suis parti d'Angleterre, j'étois bien loin de tourner mes

vues vers le négoce: mon goût et mes études me portoient vers un autre/ objet/ plus difficile, (que celui dont il s'agit), et à n'en envisager /ce dernier que par rapport au/ que les cas ordinaires plus honorable〈s〉. Je ne crois pas devoir désespérer de réussir dans mon /premier/ plan, originel d'autant plus /moins/ que je suis peut-être le seul dans mon pays qui se soit élevé au-dessus le pied d'un simple ouvrier, pour l'étudier. Mais enfin /l'ambition/ de servir à un Prince tel que V.A. et le désir de témoigner les sentiments que je ne cesserai d'entretenir pour elle, par le zèle que je mettrois à exécuter ses ordres l'ont emporté sur toute autre considération. Un des plus puissants motifs c'est l'occasion que j'aurois à jouir de l'honneur d'une espèce de correspondance avec V.A. d'entendre souvent de ses nouvelles, d'obéir à ses volontßs, de contribuer en quelque sorte à son bien-être, de me confirmer dans ses bonnes grâces, et de voir lier de plus en plus mon sort à la sienne. Sans cela je doute si le profit seul de la charge seroit un motif assez puissant pour me déterminer à vouloir sortir de la route que je me suis tracé. Il est vrai que n'étant que cadet de deux frères dont le père est encore en vie, il ne me conviendroit pas de rester oisif: pour que ma vie se passe commodément, il faut que le travail marche à côté de la jouissance. Mais quand il n'y a eu que la richesse d'un côté et l'honneur accompagné du nécessaire à l'autre, je n'ai jamais hésiter à donnr la préférence au premier. Cependant l'honneur de soutenir un rôle public dans le service d'un Prince comme V.A. en /accordant/ ensemble le profit et l'honneur /et le profit/ ne peut qu'emporter entièrement la balance. A tout cela se joint l'amour de la patrie, et le plaisir que (je prendrois) j'éprouverois en contribuant à l'extension de son commerce et en resserrant les noeuds de l'amitié entre elle et la Courlande.

Quant à l'assiduité, en fait de correspondance, j'espérois être /en état/ de faire voir à V.A. [. . . ?] par le temoignage de mes amis que je passe parmi eux pour un homme dont ce n'est pas la coutume de s'épargner /les/ peines pour faire ce qu'ils attendent de lui dans le cours d'une correspondance ordinaire: je laisse imaginer à V.A. si l'honneur que j'ambitionne est dans le cas de diminuer la force des motifs qui me portent à faire ce qui dépend de moi pour remplir 〈de〉 tels devoirs

Si après en avoir fait l'essai, V.A. ne trouvât pas que ma capacité répondroit à mon zèle, elle n'auroit que de me congédier: j'espère qu'elle n'appréhendera pas beaucoup que je /me comporte/ pire que ceux /avec lesquels/ elle a déjà trouvés raison d'être mécontent.

Pour ce qui regarde la probité je supplierois à V.A. de n'épargner aucun des moyens qu'elle croit pouvoir prendre pour s'assurer de ce côté là. /C'a été toujours mon sentiment/ Il m'a toujours paru que la probité ne doit jamais trouver à redire à aucune des /épreuves/ moyens /qu'on/ dont on pourroit /employer/ se servir pour /mettre en usage/ la distinguer d'avec le défaut contraire. Les revenus de mon père sont pour la plupart en fonds de terre, dont /quelques uns/ une partie par leur proximité à la residence royale sont assez connus: ainsi V.A. pourroit très aisément s'assurer que je ne suis pas (un) aventurier, et qu'en m'employant elle n'auroit à faire qu'avec gens responsables ...

### 351

### T o S a m u e l B e n t h a m 1

### 10 April 1780 (Aet 32)

N.B. I wrote to you by the last post but one to wit Tuesday 4th April. This is the 10th.

Madame

1

Voici un livre qui sera à l'usage ou de v.m. ou de personne. Il y a tel pais où si le bien s'indique, c'est /à risque de vie/ au dépens de la vie: chez nous il se conseille impunément: chez vous il se (met en) pratique.

2

Il y a dix ans et davantage que j'ai commencé à voir dans l'imperfection des loix un objet de réforme. Mes parens me destinoient à en faire mon profit: profession la plus lucrative chez nous, et cultivée par la première noblesse. Ils m'ont montré les playes de la justice comme un source de richesse et d'honneur même pour quiconque y sauroit verser (adroitement) le poison de la chicane. (A mesure que je les ai approfondies,) j'en fus touché, et au lieu de

**351.** 1 B.M. III: 28–29. Autograph. Docketed: 'I.B. to S.B. April 10th 1780 / Letter to Kitt.'

The letter opens with the draft of a letter to the Empress Catherine of Russia, which, it was intended, would accompany presentation of *Introduction to a Penal Code.* An earlier draft of this letter to Catherine is in U.C. clxix: 32.

vouloir envenimer j'ai formé des voeux pour les guérir. (Enfin) en étudiant toujours la science, j'ai pris le métier en horreur: (j'ai chassé mes cliens) je me suis déterminé à rester pauvre, et au lieu de débiter ce poison-là, je me suis mis à /le combattre/ (y préparer pour antidote cette baume prétieuse dont l'usage et le prix vous sont si bien connus Madame la baume de la philosophie.)

3

A peine j'avois commencé à rassembler mes idées, qui les Instructions de v.m. me sont tombées dans les mains: Je les ai lues; et dès-lors je me suis dévoué à votre service. 'Ou mes idées ne valent rien,' (me suis-je dit): ou Cath. 2d. ne manquera pas de les recueillir:' espérance douce et téméraire, qui m'a fixé sans retour dans la carrière où je suis entré, et à laquelle je n'ai cessé de sacrifier le plaisir, la santé et la fortune. Ce n'a été jusqu'à présent qu'un beau songe: (mais) si v.m. voudroit le réaliser, cela ne dépend que d'elle. Elle trouveroit dans moi un homme qui aime le travail pour le travail même, et qui n'estimeroit la vie, qu'autant qu'il pourroit l'employer à votre service.

4

Que je vous voye, Madame, que je vous entende, que je vous parle, et enfin que je vous serve! Vous verrez alors ce que c'est que le zèle. Ai-je déjà quelques talens? un regard approbateur de v.m. en décuplera la force. Ai-je déjà fait /quelques pas/ quelque chose? Ç'a été avec quelques foibles lueurs d'espérance, à peine au-dessus du désespoir. La marche de mes idées a été trainante pénible et tardive. Revivifié par votre faveur, mon âme se sentiroit une existence nouvelle: les idées se succéderoient comme les éclairs.

### 5

Le livre qui doit accompagner cette lettre n'est encore que l'introduction d'un plan entier et détaillé d'un code pénal: mais le corps même de l'ouvrage s'imprime actuellement, et est dejà fort avancé dans le tems /que/ où j'écris.2 Cependant j'ai cru devoir soumettre de bonne heure cet avant-corps aux yeux de v.m. tel qu'il est. D'abord j'ai voulu éviter de les effrayer par le spectacle

2 For Bentham's prospectus of his *Plan of a Penal Code* cf. letter 372 n. 18. There seem to be no grounds for the statement that the body of the work was already printing when the present draft was composed, and it is to be surmised that Bentham did not intend his letter to Catherine to be presented until that stage had actually been reached.

d'un livre énorme: d'ailleurs (ensuite) j'ai cherché à savoir de bonne heure les /intentions/ résolutions de v.m. pour y conformer les miennes. Si ce qui est ici se trouve (soit) assez à son gré pour qu'elle daignât dire, 'Je garde ceci, et qu'on me fasse voir le reste,' c'est tout ce que je demande. Dans ce cas-là, je voudrois bien savoir si elle trouve à propos que je le réserve pour elle seule, ou si elle me permit d'en faire part au public. J'avais concu le dessein de l'envoyer à Berne, pour le prix qui y doit s'adjuger par la Société Oeconomique le 1. de l'année prochaine: et j'ai écrit même làdessus au Secrétaire. Cependant Berne n'a été qu'un canal détourné, par où j'ai cherché à approcher de v.m. /Il m'a paru/ J'ai cru que si je remportois le prix, peut-être que la voix de la renommée pourroit aider à l'accomplissement de mes voeux. C'étoit avant que le canal dont je profite à présent se fût offert a mes espérances.

Pardonnez-moi, madame, (toute cette) ma hardiesse; et songez que si les Souverains qui osent entreprendre l'ouvrage vraiment héroïque (comme l'appelle notre Chancelier Bacon) de former un corps de loix, sont ce qu'il y a de plus rare et de plus prétieux sur la terre, les particuliers même ne se trouvent pas partout qui osent entreprendre /à/ de les seconder. Je suis Madame, avec l'admiration la plus passionnée et la plus continue, de v.m. le serviteur très humble et très dévoué etc.

[*Later insertion:* I shall correct the stile by talking over particular passages with C.A. and others without letting them know of the *tout ensemble.*]

There, Sir, there's a letter for you: now do you mind and take care who you trust it with: upon my soul I don't much like the thoughts of your trusting it with any living creature for fear of the intelligence getting abroad and people taking measures either to prejudice her against it, or to prevent your getting access with it. /They and perhaps/ You will be for putting it into the Court forms; but be pleased to consider that if there are any such I am not to be supposed to be acquainted with them; It might even have an intriguing look if it were found that I was acquainted with them. I don't recollect observing any particular forms in the letters that I have seen adressed to her from D'Alembert and Voltaire. I think it will be no bad scheme to give her the Introduction first; 1. because I think it will be most readable (it will contain all the general principles) 2. because it will be ready very soon: (the whole together will take up a cursed long time.) so that I shall the sooner

know what I have to expect. This is of consequence on your account, because the possible ways and means of keeping you where you are will certainly not hold out for ever. It is in 4to closely printed. I have got two sheets of it already. They began this day sennight (viz. April 3d. it is now Monday April 10th) They promise me 3 sheets a week (each sheet in 4to you know contains 8 pages) and I see no reason to doubt of their performance. It always takes up a considerable time before the form of the page is settled and other preliminaries adjusted: that business is now over: besides the 2nd of the above sheets was uncommonly crowded with notes. There certainly can not be less than 24 sheets more of the Introduction: that makes in all 208 pages. I would not promise that there will not be 300. [*Later insertion:* See p. 6 of this.] But suppose two months' work more: that will make it the 10th of June before it is finished; allowing a week for binding, that will make it the 17th. It may then get to you about the beginning of July. You shall have as much as happens to be done /for your own reading/ with the first parcel I send out. The 1st Chap (on the principle of Utility) ends at p. 6 the 2d sheet goes pretty near to finish Ch. 2. (Principles adverse to that of utility.) Wilson expressed more satisfaction at the 2d Sheet than I ever knew him to express in my life. No translation from Raspe: he is in jail for about 70 or 80£. where I suppose he will lie. To tell you the truth I had pretty well ceased to wish it: for I found him very confused upon the subject, nor could I beat into his head for example the difference between 'what we *shall* do, and what we *ought* to do. En revanche there is another offer. There is a German in town whom I have seen and who speaks English perfectly, and whom Schwediauer puffs off mightily. Schw. says this man will undertake it, and will translate it as it comes out, sheet by sheet. Schwede says he is a man of learning, possesses the German perfectly and has already translated things into it from the English: that he understands the niceties of Grammar, for he has taught it here to some particular persons. I have not learnt his name yet. Schw says he is moreover a man of honour, for whom he could be responsible. I must tell him of the uncertainty there is whether any more of it will be published than the introduction. I have got *pus* nearly sufficient for letters to the K. of P. and the K. of Sw.3 to

3 U.C. clxix, Folder 4 contains various rough drafts for letters in French to sovereigns and leading ministers of various nations. Some are intended to accompany presentation copies of Code or Introduction thereto. Others make an offer to codify for the country in question. They may briefly be listed thus, with Bentham's heading and its interpretation where known. Pp. 14–15: Afred. Corp [To Frederick II of Prussia. Concerned with Corpus of Prussian law.] Pp. 16–17: Alfred. [To Frederick

whom the German shall go, please the Lord above. Now, Mr. Sir, is not here news for you.

Colonel St. Paul called on Wilson t'other day, and told him he had a great favour to beg of him. It was that Wilson would get him an early sight of my work, before it was published and if possible before it was printed. W. says he will make use of it to give him consequence with Ld. North, etc., and will therefore go puffing of it about. W. however says he won't understand a word of it. St. Paul has a house at Chertsey, where Wilson (when at Thorpe) got acquainted with him by means of Douglas and visited him. I was never of the party being either blind or absent.4

To judge by the size of the MS papers, the first part alone of the body viz: the substantive part (meaning all which does not relate to Procedure) will contain twice as much as the Introduction so that we may set it down I think at about 600 pages.

Perhaps you may have written to the D. before this reaches you.5 Quant aux inventions nouvelles, peut-être qu'il ne seroit pas aisé à v.a. de trouver une personne qui pourroit aussi bien remplir ses vues que je me flatte de pouvoir faire. Pour toute invention de tant soit peu d'importance l'auteur ne manque pas de se pourvoir d'un privilège qu'on accorde à tout demandant, et qui lui donne le monopole de son invention pendant 14 ans. Ce privilège là il faut qu'il fasse coucher sur les regitres de la Chancelerie dans l'espace de 4 mois, avec une *spécification,* comme on l'appelle, c'est-à-dire une description détaillée de son invention. Cette spécification il faut qu'elle soit assez parfaite pour que en suivant, on puisse (mettre en l'usage l'invention aussi bien qu'on pourroit l'auteur) imiter parfaitement l'invention: /l'invention puisse s'imiter parfaitement par tout le monde/ sans quoi le privilège est nulle. Il n'y

II of Prussia.] P. 18: Aje: [To George III. In English. Sending Proposal for an East India Code.] P. 19: Achan. [To the Chancellor of France?] Pp. 20–21; Alep. [To Leopold I Grand Duke of Tuscany.] Pp. 22–26: Alep nouv. [To the same?] Pp. 27–35: Alimp. [To Catherine II of Russia. Various letters, including the above]. P. 36: Alos. P. 38: Acarac. [To the Marquis Caracciolo, Viceroy of Sicily.] P. 39–40: A Gust. [To Gustavus III King of Sweden.] P. 41: Asam [To Sambuca, the Neapolitan prime minister.] P. 42: A Stan. [To Stanislaus Augustus Poniatowski, King of Poland.] P. 43: No heading. Draft for part of letter 344. P. 44: A Stan. Not Sent. [A much later letter to the King of Poland, written after Bentham's return from Russia.] Pp. 45–47: A Triboulet. [Draft for letter 311]. In U.C. clxix, Folder 19 there is some further material of the same kind. P. 118 Afran. [To Benjamin Franklin. Presenting *Introduction to Code.*] P. 119: Age [To George III. Presenting Introduction to Code, without much hope of his approval.]

4 A few very faint words including 'D of C' occur here, but appear to be jottings unconnected with the letter.

5 What follows is an addition to the draft of a letter to the Duke of Courland in letter 350.

a point d'année qui ne produise 20, 30, 40 de ces spécifications-là. Cependant il s'en faut beaucoup qu'elles soient faciles à consulter. Tout cela est dans un chaos qu'il n'est pas aisé à débrouiller aussi n'y a t'il presque point de gens qui s'en mêlent. Toute fois par des liaisons particulières que j'ai je pourrois en venir à bout: et pour commencer je pourrois (moyennant quelque argent qu'il faudrait donner aux Secrétaires) dresser un catalogue complet de tous les privilèges de cette espèce qu'on a jamais accordé. Ce catalogue commence à l'année 1710: Celle-là étant l'année où le parlement a permis à la couronne d'accorder de tels privilèges. (L'autre jour par exemple on a impétré un privilège pour une nouvelle espèce de *serrure* laquelle à ce que prétend l'auteur ne scauroit d'aucune façon (be picked) comme les autres.

Quant aux sciences, je me flatte aussi de pouvoir /être à/ rendre a v.a. des services d'une utilité qu'elle ne scauroit tirer facilement d'un négociant ordinaire. Par des liaisons que j'ai avec des membres de la Soc. Royale (dont on me dit que je n'ai qu'à me présenter pour devenir membre) et autres savans, je suis toujours en état de savoir assez bien ce qui se passe de ce côté-là.

If you have written to him already without touching upon those topics, perhaps it might be worth while to give him a supplemental letter.

With regard to the model, you might manage matters so that Sambousky for example, or Bardewich6 etc. etc. might of their own heads propose your mentioning it to Czern: or might mention it themselves. This would effectually obviate all suspicion. You might shew them the letter by way of news; without appearing to have a thought of any such thing.

I don't think there can be occasion for Maria Cobalte7 by this conveyance. It is rather troublesome to use and make it permanent. I bought it.

Lind eg. seemed to apprehend that they might be jealous at your court if the D. were to have an Agent here. He recommended strongly to you to insist as a preliminary upon the having ready money. (So you should at least with private persons: as to the D. I suppose it will come from him of course.) He said he had found the ill consequences of the contrary arrangement in the transactions of that kind he had had with a foreign Court: he did not mention what

6 See letter 336, n. 7.

7 I.e. invisible ink, consisting of a solution of cobalt in muriatic acid (i.e. hydrochloric acid).