We arrived at the inn, a dirty, spacious, dear,
and badly attended hotel,with good wine and good
living, as we thought at least, who had just quitted
a transport.
On landing, we went to report our
arrival to the Commandant, Colonel Peacock, of
the Guards*, who asked us all to dine with him the
next day. Mr. Stuart**, our Minister, gave a ball,
to which we were also invited.
In the evening we attended our dinner and ball ;
the latter was very gay : the military and naval
uniforms of our own country mingled with those
of Portugal and Spain ; the dark eyes and expressive
countenances of the Lisbon ladies, contrasted with
the fair faces of our countrywomen, formed a novel
and agreeable mixture.
The women of Portugal
have fine eyes, which are their principal attraction,
and more expressive countenances than the tamer
beauties of the North.
* Afterwards Lieut. General Sir Warren Peacock, K.C.B. **Afterwards Lord Stuart de Kothsay, our Ambassador at Paris.
x
