Letter from Thomas Bridges, Mayor of London, to the office of the Secretary of State, 1 May 1820 (catalogue reference HO 44/6/135)
Transcript
Newgate Nine o’clock am
My Lord
The Execution has taken place in perfect quietness, when Tidd came on the Platform there was a little shouting and when Ings came on he gave three cheers which were partially and faintly returned, but the Prisoners did not address the Populace and if they had, the distance from the place of Execution would have prevented any bad effects. There was by far the most dissatisfaction expressed at the decapitation, but it was transitory – On the whole there has seldom been a more tranquil Execution witnessed. The Troops were so dispersed that in whichever way the populace approached to the Old Bailey, they must be seen in force sufficient to deter any attempts at rescue. The mob are beginning slowly to disperse and unless anything fresh were to occur I think it will be unnecessary to trouble your lordship with my further account of the unpleasant business.
I have the honour to be my Lord, your Lordship’s most humble and obedient servant,
Thomas Bridges,
Mayor