'LEWES RACES. The _Prince of Wales_ is so regardless of weather, that a shower of rain is never known to interrupt his excursions. His Highness's indifference on this head, reminds us of a remark of _Henry the Great_, "that fate does not depend upon a sunbeam!"--The example of the British prince was followed by his _insular_ friends and _Parisian_ visitors. The road from Brighthelmstone to Lewes, was crowded by _gentlemen jockies_ and _jockey sharpers_; carriages of various denominations, and a company of all descriptions. The _Steine_ was depopulated of all save a few _living caricatures_, consisting of antique Females, and _balloonified_ squires from the City, too awkward and unwieldy to wear boots, or venture on horseback: to this class of beings, the ball room was relinquished. 'The Course ground continued, during the races, frequented by fashionable guests. Besides the English and French princes, were present the Duc _de Lauzun_, Marquis _de Conflans_, Count _Seguir_, the Russian minister, and several others from the Continent. The Duke of Queensberry, Lord Cholmondeley, Lord Foley, and many more of the Jockey Club were on the ground. 'The Bets were high, though the sport was indifferent; the Duke de Chartres, Duke of Queensberry and Sir Charles Bunbury, were principally engaged in the success of the day. The _Gallic Duke_ was in such spirits, that it was said his Highness would have mounted an _Air balloon_ had one been present. 'A _Pedestrian Race_ was, also, proposed between a _fat gentleman_, and a _lean one_: but the former complaining that the atmosphere was low, gave up the contest as he was fearful he should be _hard blowed_!'[33] The Prince being at Brighton made all the difference in the gaiety of the place, and his occasional absence in London is thus commented upon: 'Brighthelmstone, comparatively speaking, within these few days, has become almost a desert; scarce a person of fashion remains; the whole company now consists of _antiquated virgins_, _emaciated beaux_, and wealthy citizens, with their wives and daughters; the latter of whom have some _weight_ in continuing a few needy adventurers, who are as watchful as lynxes, for an opportunity of carrying off the golden prizes.'[34] Note how this all changes when he returns. 'Extract from a Letter from Brighthelmstone, dated Sep. 5. We are all alive and merry here. Besides the honour of his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales's company, we are favoured with those of the Duchess of Ancaster, Lady Charlotte Bertie, Lady Mary Brudenell, the Bishop of Winchester, Lord and Lady Beauchamp, the Right Hon. Mr. Fox, with many others; and, last night, the Right Hon. Mr. Pitt, accompanied by Mr. Steele, of the Treasury, arrived here.