Isle of Wight Observer October 9, 1858
LORD PALMERSTON IN RYDE – On Tuesday evening last, about 6 o’clock, as we were on the pier, we were most agreeably surprised to find the arrival of Lord Palmerston, England’s Great Statesman and ex-Premier, who came over from Broadlands, Hants, on a visit, with Lady Palmerston, for a few days to Sir Augustus Clifford, bart., at Westfield, Ryde. His luggage was marked simply, “P”, the initial of a name which has often made despots to tremble, and whose feats in diplomacy are unparalleled by any living man. His lordship, though hale, shews signs of age, more specially by his stooping gait, but there are no indications of decrepidness usually found in a man of his age. On Wednesday his lordship and Sir Augustus took exercise on horseback. On Thursday, his lordship, accompanied by Sir Augustus and Miss Clifford, visited the Museum in Melville-street; with the contents of which he expressed himself much pleased, and he considered its establishment was an excellent feature in the town. Mr Barrow acted as cicerone.
Lord and Lady Palmerston left Westfield for Broadlands on Thursday afternoon.
Vice Admiral Sir Augustus Clifford, bart., will patronise the performances at the Theatre to-morrow (Saturday) evening, when we anticipate that the dress circle will present a gay appearance.
Should the weather be favourable, the grounds of Westfield will be open for the third and last time this season on Sunday, from 3 to 6, we believe in honour of Lord Palmerston’s visit.
SOIREE – A tea meeting and soiree took place at the Victoria-rooms on Monday evening last, for the goodly purpose of aiding the funds for building the school rooms adjoining the Independant Chapel, that is, for completing the original design of the architect, Mr Henry Hellyer. The attendance was more numerous and respectable than usual on such occasions, and the amount netted was liberal.
