The Keith Papers

17. Montagu to Keith

Deal
June 25, 1803.

My dear Lord, When I yesterday received intimation of my being superseded it came like a stroke of thunder, as I had not entertained the smallest idea of a removal to a secondary station at Plymouth. Understanding this morning the real state of the case, if I do not obtain permission to go by London, which will give me an opportunity of knowing my destiny, that is to say if there is a probability of my being employed upon a foreign station, I shall wish to resign public employment altogether, as I do not think I can render my country any service at Plymouth, and having a large family I am necessitated to bend to the times and must, coute qui coute, give up.

It is a pleasing reflection to me that in the public transactions I have had to conduct I have secured your Lordship’s good opinion, and that I may equally do so in private life and retain a corner in your Lordship’s heart is the ardent wish of him who has upon all occasions strived to prove himself your Lordship’s faithful devoted servant,

ROBERT MONTAGUE.