1 September 1871

Next morning early we went on board one of those grand three-decked river steamers for Albany. Lord Adare would have been with us, but a Telegram having brought him bad news of Lord Dunnaven’s health, he must return by next boat to England.

The magnificent Bay at New York and the sight of the large Steamers constantly flying on it, is a scene far more pleasant than the review of New York and a sojourn amidst its whirl of Business . The change is indeed charming, from the close heat to the pleasant breeze created by the Steamers going at 20 miles an hour; - from page 8 the crowded street and busy hum to gaze upon the beauties of this magnificent river. It was the scene of much strife between the Americans and the English, and many places are rich in histories relating to the time of the fight for Independence. The mountains form themselves into precipitous rocks, called the “Palisades”, and look very imposing. The river takes a sudden bend at West Point, and there the scene becomes fine indeed, equal to any river views I have ever seen. An eagle came close to the boat, so wild is the part. We got to Albany at night, and after wandering about until near midnight started in the train for Niagara.