The Letters III - From William Hudson to Sir Francis Henry Drake, 1767–1778

Summary

20 September 1767

Sir

I am sorry to acquaint you that yesterday there arived an Express with an Account of the Death of the Duke of York at Monaco on the 17th instant.* It is immagined that his Illness was brought on by over fatigue; as he had travel’d near 500 Miles from Fryday to Monday when he arived at Toulon where it is said he danced all night and then embarked for Genoa but went to Monaco in order to see some Roman Antiquities &c. He found himself but very indifferent on his arivel. He was receiv’d with great politeness by the Prince and at Supper complain’d of being sick and desired to have something in private which was granted but when it was brought him he was not able to eat anything and insisted upon embarking the next morning for Genoa, tho perswaided to the Contrary by the Prince &c, but he was determined to get there if Possible. But after he had been out some time he found himself so ill that they put back again immediatly. Upon his arival they sent away for Physiciens both from Nice & Turin. His disorder turned out a Milliery fever and as he did not find himself better in ten or twelve days he insisted upon taking Dr James's Powder, which accordingly he did & it had its usual effect. It is said that the Eruption struck in & fell upon his bowels and brought on a mortification in his stomach &bowels of which he died the day after, viz the 17th instant. He was ill 13 days – This is what I have been able to learn of this Melancholy affair for I have not been able to see My Mother [?] (who had letters) as they were in such confusion and hurry – Lord North is appointed Chancellor & W Ellis succeds Lord North.

I am sir your oblig’d humble servant

W Hudson