Collection | Georgian manuscripts in the Royal Library on medical matters |
Description | Contents:
- Journals of Robert Fulke Greville, volumes 1-3 Robert Fulke Greville (1751-1824) first served as Equerry to George III, becoming Groom of the Bedchamber in 1800 until his dismissal due to a reduction in the size of the Royal Household in 1819. His journals help to provide an intimate and comprehensive account of life within the Royal Household during the latter years of the King's reign. The journals cover, with great detail, various Royal events of the late-eighteenth century; particularly the marriage of the Prince of Wales (later George IV) in 1795, the King's visits to Weymouth, various rides taken by the King in Windsor Great Park, and interestingly the decision, coming from a passing reference made by Greville, of the King to import a large flock of merino sheep from Spain with the assistance of Sir Joseph Banks. Due to his proximity to George III, Greville also provides an extremely detailed account of the illness, now attribted to porphyria, which affected the King in 1788-9. This account tellingly indicates the sadness and apprehension many in the Royal Family and Royal Household felt towards the King's sickness. Greville held a position very close to the King throughout both illnesses and as such was able to report daily on the condition and behaviour of the monarch and the effects any medical treatment was having on his health. The illness would return in 1801, following the death of Princess Amelia the previous year, and would affect him until his death in 1820.
- Principes généraux sur le choix et méthode á employer l'eléctricité et le galvanisme á la medecine by Jacques Timmermans |
Custodial History | The diaries of Robert Fulke Greville were purchased 1940 |