Main Themes and Motifs

Speed and comfort of steamers
Condescending attitude to the French

Chronology

1810-19
1820-29   034; 046; 050; 728
1830-39
1840-49   733
1850-59
1860-69
1870-79
1880-89
1890-99
1900-09

Uncertain: 089

Historical Background

Even while the war with France raged, the ton¹ continued to copy French style and sprinkle French phrases into conversation. Hardly had the smoke cleared from the battlefield of Waterloo before the aristocracy resumed its love-affair with France.
The Clyde steamer Rob Roy; which began its life crossing the Irish Sea, was taken south and in 1821 became the first steam packet between Dover and Calais .