[Journal], 1835

Manuscript journal of a London wine merchant's travels in France, Germany, Switzerland and the Low Countries during the summer and fall of 1835, accompanied as far as Switzerland by a boy, Alfonzo Pipon. The diary documents travel and hotel conditions; social events and contacts with British residents in various cities; business plans and trade fairs; and encounters with members of the British and Continental aristocracy

Although they witnessed part of the "Grand Review" by Louis Philippe on July 28, 1835, Collins and Pipon only heard reports of Fieschi's assassination attempt shortly after. The entries for the following week include descriptions of the mood of Paris, the lying in state of the assassination victims, and a brief interview between a deputation of British residents and the King, who spoke in English "expressing great affection for the English Nation."

Entries for the Swiss and German portion of the tour are illustrated with printed scenes and describe the natural beauties of the region in detail, comparing Berne to Somersetshire; a difficult and storm-plagued boat trip to see the Griesenbach Falls; the arrival of the Queen of Naples in Zurich; and an archery contest at the William Tell school

The journal concludes with lists of the letters of introduction carried by Collins; his addresses while traveling; and a chart of distances and conveyances for the entire journey

Tipped in: folding lithograph with scenes concerning the Fileschi assassination attempt, printed August 12, 1835; 8 sepia aquatints of Swiss views; 2 prints of Lucerne; plan of Karlsruhe; small map of Low Countries