But with the dawning of 1805 the crisis of England's fate approached consummation. Napoleon's plans were known to be completed. Pitt's Continental Allies were secretly arming. The sea-dogs who guarded the safety of our shores--Nelson, Collingwood, Cornwallis, Calder--were on the alert. Yet while England's very existence as a Nation hung in the balance, in the gay world of London those who represented the _ton_ danced and flirted, attended routs and assemblies, complaining fretfully of the unwonted dullness of the town, or in their drawing-rooms discussed the topics of the hour--the acting of the wonder-child Roscius; the lamentable scandal relating to Lord Melville; or, ever and again--with a tremor--the possibilities of invasion. THE LETTER-BAG OF LADY ELIZABETH SPENCER-STANHOPE CHAPTER I 1805-1806 LETTERS RELATING TO THE WORLD OF TON _Mrs Spencer-Stanhope to John Spencer-Stanhope._ GROSVENOR SQUARE, _January 18th, 1805._ Here we are established as of old and beginning our usual avocations.... Our Opera-box we like extremely. I generally take some young woman, which makes us cheerful. Miss Glyn [1] was of my party one night, and was well pleased. Little Roscius [2] appeared again to-night. I almost despair of seeing him, though I will try. On Saturday morning, Marianne and I and five or six hundred others went to hear Mr Sydney Smith [3] lecture upon the _Conduct of the Human Understanding_. His voice is fine and he is well satisfied with himself. I cannot say we came away much wiser, but we were well amused. I hear that Mr Smith protests that all women of talent are plain. Lady de Clifford [4] is to be Governess to Princess Charlotte, Mrs and Miss Trimmer [5] the acting ones. I doubt the mother accepting the appointment. On the 25th February there is to be a grand ball at Windsor. [Illustration: MRS. TRIMMER] _Marianne Spencer-Stanhope to John Spencer-Stanhope_. GROSVENOR SQUARE, _February 1st, 1805._ MY DEAR JOHN,