Note 421 — Chapter XXIII · Closing Years of James Watt—His Death—Conclusion.

The following anecdote is told by Mrs. Schimmelpenninck:—“During the peace of Amiens, Mr. Watt visited Paris. It so happened that while going through one of the palaces, I believe the Tuileries, a French housemaid appeared much perplexed concerning some bright English stoves which had just been received, and which she did not know how to clean. An English gentleman was standing by, to whom she appealed for information. This was Charles James Fox. He could give no help; “But,” said he, “here is a fellow-countryman of mine who will tell you all about it.” This was Mr. Watt, to whom he was at the moment talking; and who proceeded to give the housemaid full instructions as to the best mode of cleaning her grate. This anecdote I have often heard Mrs. Watt tell with great diversion.”