Fine clear day, and bracing easterly air. I do not dislike this weather though I find it as much inveighed against here as it is at home. I had a visit from Mr Field whom I had notified of Lord Russell’s consent to hold a conference with at half past three today, I excused myself from going with him, and he did not seem much discomposed. The American newspapers came today and most deeply interested me. The narrative they contained of the capture of Roanoke Island and the destruction of the confederate vessels stirred me much, and made me feel that the navy was once more coming up to the standards which it established in former struggles. The stroke must be most depressing to the rebels. There was a story put in circulation today that farther intelligence has been received of a repulse of our troops at Fort Donnelson, but it was evidently manufactured. Mr Forster called to get further information respecting the blockade. Sir Emerson Tennent and Mr Lampson to talk of Mr Peabody’s gift and to arrange a meeting of the persons comprising the trust. for Saturday next at my house. Mr Gerard Ralston came to speak of the anxiety of Liberia which he represents to obtain a recognition from the United States, and of his desire that I should recommend it to the government. I said that I though well of it and would mention it. Mr Ralston also mentioned the story about Fort Donnelson as being the Herald and the Standard. I took a long walk and43 then with Mrs Adams to dine with the Count and Countess de Flahault. A small company consisting of the Marquis of Landsdowne, the Bishop of London and Mrs Tait, Mr and Mrs Ellice Junr, Mr Byng, and one person when I did not know. It was pleasant without being lively. After leaving the table, several persons came in the evening, which seems the least formal kind of society there is here. Home soon after eleven. I talked a little of politics with Count Flahault upon continental politics which look a little disturbed now, but he was cautious.