In this article, as in 'Gone to the Dogs' [HW, Vol. XI, 10 March 1855] (article 36 [in the Dent Uniform Edition of Dickens' Journalism Vol. 3, pp. 283–91]), Dickens uses a device that enables him to string together a number of disparate satirical points he wishes to make. The contrast between the money spent in honouring Nelson and that spent in honouring Wellington connects with his earlier condemnation of the costly and ostentatious State Funeral given to the latter [see 'Trading in Death', HW, Vol. VI. 27 November 1852]. The allusion to a 'pauper provision' for Nelson's daughter concerns Horatia, his daughter by Lady Hamilton, officially known as his 'adopted' daughter until his paternity became public knowledge in 1849. In his will Nelson famously left Lady Hamilton as 'a legacy to my King and Country'; also Horatia, to 'the beneficence of my country'. But the death of Pitt meant that no public provision was arranged for the women.
Read more...
