1858. July 5.—Yesterday, the Fourth of July, was commemorated for the first time, at a public dinner, by an association of Americans at London Tavern, in the city. The company was large, and remained together, speaking most tediously to toasts, until twelve at night. I thought the occasion a good one for announcing definitely the cessation of visiting or searching our merchant vessels.
Dined with the Duke of Newcastle; a brilliant and delightful company,—Lord Brougham, Earl Stanhope, Earl Grey, Lord Broughton, Bishop of Oxford, Sir Charles Wood, Lord Ashburton, Mr. Gladstone, etc.
