| Teitl | Diary kept by John Roberts, Assistant Harbour-Master, Holyhead; marked "Private"; runs from 2nd July, 1855, to 3rd August, 1858; deposited by Mr H.L.Pace of Helston, Cornwall, formerly of Holyhead. J.R. served under Cmdr. (later Capt.) Skinner, and Cmdr. (later Capt.) Priest. The diary faithfully records the vagaries of wind and weather, and is a mine of information on the comings and goings of vessels of all kinds. Local events of all kinds, not merely maritime ones, receive mention : a visit by the French ex-Royal Family in August 1855; meetings of the gas committee" in Holyhead; social engagements; electioneering dramas (H.W.O.Stanley et al); etc. J.R. has a laconic style which serves to emphasise the dramatic element in his day-to-day reportage of events. A fascinating entry on the first page gives a recipe for making 80 gallons of soup ! |