`Gratefull to Providence': The Diary and Accounts of Matthew Flinders, Surgeon, Apothecary, and Man-Midwife, 1775-1802: Volume II: 1785-1802 (Publications of the Lincoln Record Society, 97) - Hardcover

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0901503851 ISBN 13: 9780901503855

Publisher: Lincoln Record Society, 2009

Synopsis

This volume presents (and completes) the edition of the diary and account books of Matthew Flinders, surgeon and apothecary of Donington in south Lincolnshire. His son, also Matthew, who later won renown as the first circumnavigator of Australia, appears here as a schoolboy, choosing not to follow his father as an apothecary but pursuing instead a career at sea. The diary records the social life of Donington - magical deceptions at the Bull and the visit of a theatre company - and the joys and sorrows of family life. Flinders's success in business led to investments in land and government securities, yet his fear of poverty was never far away and his wish to sell up and retire was never realised. The war with France is a recurring theme, both in the ever-increasing taxes imposed to pay for it, and in the local patriotism evoked by Nelson's victory at the Nile, and that of the 'Glorious First of June' in which the young Matthew took part. Other national events shown to impinge on country life and mentioned in the diary include the king's recovery from madness in 1789 (celebrated by the illumination of the whole town). Overall, it affords a rare glimpse into everyday life at the time.

About this title

About the Author:

Martyn Beardsley is a writer and historian. He has written thirty-five books, including Deadly Winter, the biography of Arctic explorer Sir John Franklin, and A Matter of Honour: The Story of England's Last Fatal Duel. He has conducted extensive research into the Napoleonic Wars. He lives in Nottingham.

Review:

(M)edical historians should find these volumes a valuable quarry for many years to come. They should also provide a goldmine for local and social historians. LINCOLNSHIRE HISTORY & ARCHAEOLOGY

About this edition

• Publisher: Lincoln Record Society
• Publication date: 2009
• ISBN 10: 0901503851
• ISBN 13: 9780901503855
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 336
• Editor: Beardsley Martyn, Bennett Nicholas