About one o'clock I heard a rumbling noise, immediately a flash of
lightning; this increased so much that though the shutters were closed,
and I covered in bed, I could see a blaze of light which continued some
time, then louder thunder, so horrible as to throw me into a
perspiration, after some time it abated a little, then returned with
redoubled fury with heavy rain and I think hail for nearly an hour; it
was truly terrific and I was glad to learn that I had seen nearly the
worst. This was admitted by Mr. W. and also the driver of the stage who
did not think he had seen it worse excepting once. Mr. Walker sent over
to Hulmesburgh for one of his carriages, called with my letter to Mr.
Taylor, but did not meet him; then went to Mr. Hulme, agreed to go out
together at half past three. On returning to the Hotel, met Mr. Jackson
and also Captain Kenney; took a piece of beef and a glass of champagne
with my old companions. Hastened to Mr. Hulme's; found him and three
daughters waiting for me in a carriage, drove to the Penitentiary where
vicious youths are endeavoured to be reclaimed by useful occupation,
such as nails for sofas, cane-bottomed chairs and book-binding. Thence
we visited the State prison; the cells constructed in the octagon form;
all seen from the centre; a small yard attached to each to walk in for
one hour a day; a sentinel placed serving the whole. Then we went to the
Alms or Workhouse which is on a magnificent scale; thence to the
Hospital, passed over two large bridges. Returned and took tea and spent
the evening at Mr. Hulme's.