k and her ever constant earl. _(See Plate.)_ Do not imagine, my
dear Bernard, that I shall so far outrage the honourable feelings of a
gentleman as to relate every word, look, or action, of this illustrious
party, for the rude ear of eager curiosity. Those only who have
witnessed the Monarch in private life, freed from the weight of state
affairs, and necessary regal accompaniments, can form a correct judgment
of the unaffected goodness of his heart; the easy affability, and pliant
condescension, with which he can divest ~298~~every one around him of
any feeling of restraint--the uncommon sprightliness and vivacity he
displays in conversation--the life and soul of all that is elegant and
classical, and the willing participator and promoter of a good joke.
Suffice it to say, the reception was flattering in the extreme, the
entertainment conversational and highly intellectual. The moments flew
so quickly, that I could have wished the hour of eleven, the period of
the King's retiring, had been extended to the noontide of the morrow.
But is this all, I think I can hear you say, this friend of my heart
dares to repose with me on a subject so agreeable? No--you shall have a
few _on dits_, but nothing touching on the scandalous; gleanings, from
Sir E---- and Sir C----, the jesters of our sovereign lord the King; but
nothing that might excite a blush in the cheek of the lovely Countess,
to whom I was indebted for the honour and delight I on that occasion
experienced. Imprimis:--I know you are intimate with that inimitable
child of whim, Charles Mathews. He is in high estimation with royalty,
I assure you; and annually receives the King's command to deliver a
selection from his popular entertainments before him--an amusement of
which his Majesty speaks in terms of the warmest admiration. On the last
occasion, a little _scena_ occurred that must have been highly amusing;
as it displays at once the kind recollections of the King, and his
amiable disposition. As I had it from Sir C----, you may depend upon
its authenticity. I shall denominate it the King at Home, or Mathews in
Carlton Palace. _(See Plate.)_

[Illustration: page298]

Previous to Mathews leaving this country for America, he exhibited a
selection from his popular entertainments, by command of his Majesty,
at Carlton Palace.--A party of not more than six or eight persons
were present, including the Princess Augusta and the Marchioness of
Conyngham. During ~299~~the en