| Citation |
NG.778.003
8 Jan 1778:21 (51)
Petersburgh, Sept. 2. Dear Sir, In compliance with your
request, I am now to give you an account of our naval
expedition to this place. . . [1 1/2 column describing visit
of the Duchess of Kingston to Petersburgh, and hospitality
aboard her yacht for her Imperial Majesty.]
. . . [26 lines] At the time appointed the Duchess drove to
the palace, and was presented in form to the Empress, by
Count Czernischoff. After some little time spent in
conversation, her imperial majesty went to the theatre,
where a comedy had been ordered. The Empress, followed by
the Grand Duchess, entered the theatre, and as a final mark
of distinction, the Duchess of Kingston was seated on the
right hand of her imperial Majesty. . . [The duchess
receives best treatment, splendid dinners, 23 lines] On
Wednesday next there is to be a superb ball at court. And
the French Ambassador hath issued dinner cards for Thursday.
As some complimentary returns for the obliging marks of
distinction, the Duchess gave a magnificent entertainment on
board her own yatch. . . [7 lines] As soon as the tables
were covered, a band of music, with fifes, drums, clarinets,
and French horns, played English marches, and other
occasional pieces. After dinner the company were
entertained by the organ, which is erected in the state
room. In short there seems to be a Princely emulation
amongst the higher orders of the court, to contend with each
other in shewing the most distinguished respect to their
illustrious visitor.
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