for Beverley (1831–2), Carlisle (1835–47) and East Cumberland (1847–65) and married, 17 June 1828, Georgiana Christiana, seventh daughter of George Hibbert of Munden, Hertfordshire.
Francis was educated at Harrow, and matriculated from Exeter College, Oxford, on 14 June 1859, but did not take a degree.
For several years, he was a clerk in the audit office at Somerset House, but soon began contributing to newspapers and periodicals, and in 1868 resigned his appointment.
For his friend Henry Irving he wrote two pieces: a drama in four acts, founded on the history of Robert Emmet, and a version of Werner, altered and adapted for the stage.
The latter was produced at the Lyceum Theatre on the occasion of the benefit given to Westland Marston by Henry Irving on 1 June 1887.