Short Announcement from MRS FINNEGAN

The Boudicca of Brighton Housekeeping

Dear Readers

It was suggested to me that you MIGHT wish to know I will be at the Brunswick Festival on this coming Saturday and Sunday.

It will be held in Brunswick Square. Look out for The Regency Town House stall or walk straight up to Number 13. The door will be open between 11 am and 4pm and a charming country gentleman (in a smock) will greet you. There’s no need to tip him but he always appreciates a smile.

Mrs Hankey (mistress) has informed me that my presence is indispensable and Master Peregrine (husband) says I should attend. Alas, he is expecting a bout of gout which will prevent him from being my escort.

For those not familiar with Brunswick Square we are on the west side of Brighton. If you come across a huddle of ill-kempt cottages you have come too far and are in Hove village. Retreat at ONCE.

You will then find our MAJESTIC square on your right facing the sea. This painting may help if you are travelling from Worthing, Shoreham and other such places I am told exist along the south coast.

If you glance to your right and spot a seated figure on her own looking out to sea in a wistful manner (as if composing an elegy) you will see myself in a rare moment of contemplative solitude. I only mention it as it may HELP you recognise me. Otherwise the portrait at the top of the page will have to suffice. I shall be wearing blue.

By the way, Brunswick Square is the second on the left on the painting.

I hope to see you there. If I have to attend I see no reason why you shouldn’t.

Dear American Readers

Master Peregrine has estimated that it takes ABOUT a month to sail from New York (but that doesn’t take into account the size of the ship, number of sails, weight of the cargo, shape of the hull, the sea temperature or the wind and the experience of the Captain) and I think we need to allow another two weeks to get to New York from where ever you are, three to be on the safe side.

He also advises that when you land at Liverpool you will need to get a London-bound coach which will arrive at The Swan with Two Necks in Cheapside.

You may need to rest up a few days before catching a Brighton coach from Blossoms Inn also in Cheapside. So perhaps in all, with good horses, add another 10 days onto your journey. Here is a little ditty about the Brighton end of your journey which you may enjoy.

I should perhaps add that Master Peregrine has not visited London since 1819, has never used the services of a stage coach or been to sea. If I were you I would enquire at New York before embarking.

However, rounding it all up, I estimate you should have started about June 5th. Do wave when you get to Brunswick Square.

Click Here for Things you may need to know:
Brunswick Festival
The Regency Town House
Mrs Finnegan’s life story
The Flaming Red Years Part I
The Cultured Years Part II