Erastus Smith's Journal
Transcription by Christopher Lott
Journal during my soujourn Middleboro
Journal While at P. Academy
(1853)
Feb 21 Monday: There I am seated in the third story of a boarding house in Middleboro. I have left home today for the longest period during my life. I arrived here about 4 o'clock & since that time I have been through every part of the Academy with Mr Loreel.
Feb 22 Tuesday: Today we have met together. The numbers of students I have not as yet ascertained. Mr Jenks Is the principle, Mr Burnett teacher in classics. Mr Manning teacher in mathematics, & Miss Emerson Perceptress? & teacher music & drawing.
Feb 23 Wednesday: I think if I have not been home sick today I shall not be. For it has been dark. And raining all day, have not formed many acquaintances.
Feb 24 Thursday: Pleasant & cool again. This day has been spent as a fast among the colleges & academy's throughout the commonwealth. We attended the prayer meeting this evening.
Feb 25 Friday: The school attended the funeral of the widow of the founder of this Academy. Her husband departed this life a few years since. She was quite an aged lady The academy was founded in the year 1809. Our first recitation in Chemistry took place today. It was a very large class numbering considerable Over fifty I should judge. I find the first part of it very difficult besides the lessons are long. I have written a letter home.
Feb 26 Saturday: We are to have no school Saturdays but can spend our time as we choose, I think that after today I shall write composition and study pieces to declaim I have written a letter in New Hampshire.
Feb 27 Sunday: This has been a beautiful day. Before meeting this morning Mr lazell An I took walk for exercise. This morning I attended church and heard an excellent sermon from Rev Mr Aldrich, Baptist, He took for his subject “the general Resurrection of the dead.” His text was 1st Cor, 15th chap 13th verse. This afternoon attended the Congregationalists and heard another excellent discourse Text, Hebrews 2nd, Chap 14 & 15 verses, they have preaching every Sabbath but not from any regular preacher. It is a requisition of the school To attend church, morning & evening and it the evening meetings we are invited but there are no strict Regulations about it. Never since I have left home have the thoughts of home come vividly to my mind as they have since meeting. Not that I am home sick for I am not. But a person if he have any feelings his thoughts will instinctively turn to his home. I love it. It is a sacred spot to me. I feel it so more than ever since leaving it. I turned my eyes to the town clock this afternoon. It was half past three. My thoughts immediately turned to the supper table at home, I felt a desire to be there, Not that I do not live well here. For I have all that my heart can desire.
Feb 28 Monday: Nothing material has transpired with me, The divisions for declaiming were given out today; we are divided into two divisions for declaiming were given out today; we are divided into two divisions. One division speaks this week and the other the next and so on through the term. The division that I am in declaims this week.
Mar 1 Tuesday: I arose this morning at 5 oclock, found the sky obscured by clouds, & the atmosphere filled with fog. At 7 ¼ went to breakfast and at ½ past 8 repaired to the academy. Where I met the faces of upwards of one hundred students. At 10 ½ oclock recited Chemistry , by the way I find it very hard. Probably more difficult than it will be a few weeks hence, after I have gained some knowledge of the science. At 12 repair to dinner and meet together again at 2 oclock, and at 5 we're again dismissed, but after 7 oclock in the evening we must be in our rooms to study, and so on from day to day.
Mar 2 Wednesday: Nothing unusual has transpired
Mar 3 Thursday: Chemistry lecture today was quite interesting. Mr Jenks prepared oxygen gas, the manner in which he prepared it was this, he took 3 parts clorate potash with one of oxide of manganese. These parts are then put into a copper retort, and subjected in a head sufficient to melt tin, lead, or brass, when a sufficient degree of head it produced, the oxygen gas separates from these two substances and passes through a tube into a receptacle which is filled with water, but when the gas begins to separate it drives the water out of this receptacle and takes its place. He let it remain in this receptacle and tomorrow he will perform experiments with it. While this separation was going on it made a very loud noise, and many of the misses Ran out of the room, frightened, that gave Mr lazzel an opportunity to laugh at them.
Mar 4 Friday: I suppose our new president Gen pierce has commences his arduous duties today. I suppose some of our future presidents are at this time attending school, but it is impossible for us to tell who they may be, perhaps he is attending here there are many here who are preparing for college. The experiments with oxygen gas were shown us during the lecture today. The gas which was formed yesterday but retained in the receptacle was conveyed from there into a jar. It was set on fire and a common watch spring was burned, and another experiment was to burn phosphorus in the gas, it gave such a brilliant light as to make it almost impossible to look upon it. This afternoon I had to take my stand upon the stage and make my first effort in declamation in the presence of nearly 200. It frightened me some but I got through with it safely. I have attended the sermon this evening, I have joined it.
Mar 5th Saturday: I arose this morning and found the ground to be covered with a thick mantle of snow. I sent my washing home by Mr Drayton this morning. Have written a letter to Augusta, and the evening I have attended the prayer meeting in the school room.
Mar 6th Sunday: I attended the Baptist church this morning and heard a very striking sermon, by Mr
Aldrich. This subject was “The judgment day”. Text was from revelations. The last 5 verses of the twentieth Chapter. This noon I attended the bible class in the school room. Again attended church this afternoon, heard an excellent discourse. He showed in a very clear manner that if Christ were personaly upon earth at this age, he would be persecute as much as he was at the time he was upon the earth. He took for his text the second and third verses of the 53rd Chapter of Isaiah. I shall learn one good lesson by attending school here. I shall have formed the habit of attending church.
Mar 7th Monday: I have not seen a day since I have been in this place that seems so much like Spring as this, if there was no snow on the ground it would be beautiful, but the snow will not remain with us long, if we have such pleasant weather. In the Chermistry lecture today Mr Jenks prepared hydrogen gas. The ingredients from which he formed it were granulated zinc three parts water one part sulphuric acid. As soon as these were put together the gas began to foam. No heat was required as in forming oxygen gas. He then inhaled a quantity of the gas and endeavored to talk, but it affected his voice in such a manner, that he could but squeal.
Mar 8th Tuesday: There has been no school today on account of a convention held in New Bedford which Mr Jenks and Mr Burnett attend I met with the school choir this forenoon to practice singing, I have also written a letter to Aunt Olive, I came very near getting provoked this evening. I went to the hotel where I carried my valise on Friday morning, to be carried home by Mr drayton. But by the negligence of the bar keeper it was overlooked. So I am compelled to wait another week. I hope we shall have a school.
Mar 9th Wednesday: Rainy today. Rain seems to a characteristic of this place. It has been foul weather two thirds of the time since I have been here. Mr Jenks has not been present today so that school has not been so orderly as usual.
Mar 10th Thursday: I commenced a letter. Which I shall send home in my valise by Mr Drayton. The experiments in Chemistry today was the formation of Nitrogen gas.
Mar 11th Friday: It has been cloudy during the day. And it storms some this evening. I have attended the Philomathean Lyceum this evening. The subject for debate was Resolved that the civilian is better qualified for President than the military man. The discussion was not so spirited as it was last Friday evening. Sent my valise home by Mr Drayton this evening.
Mar 12th Saturday: School has kept today to make up for Tuesday. I attended the evening prayer meeting in the school room, this evening. There seems to be quite a number of Christians in the school. I should be pleased to have had a letter from home this evening but I was not so gratified.
Mar 13th Sunday: Very pleasant we have pleasant Sabbath but unpleasant week days. I attended church this morning. Heard a very excellent discourse from James 5 Chapter, 16th verse. “The effectual fervent prayer of the righteous man availeth much” The preachers name I do not know. I attended the bible class in the school room, Mr Jenks gave us some resolutions to write which he a number of years ago heard Rev Leyman Beecher give to his audience. I have attended church again this afternoon and heard one of the best discourses I ever did hear. Since the services this afternoon I have learned that the preacher was Rev Mr Heely, of Kingston, I have attended the prayer meeting in the Congregationalist.
Mar 14th Monday: I took a walk to the depot ½ mile distant, this morning before breakfast and I have felt better for it all day I believe. I went down to the post office this evening almost certain to find a letter from home, but alas! I was disappointed, I suppose it will be the move of a heart when I do receive one.
Mar 15th Tuesday: It was a very cold night, last night and it has been quite cold today, I cannot tell about the weather here so well as I can in dry pond. But I have not wanted to be out of doors much today. I have been trying to unravel my arithmetic lesson for the morrow, but I have not prospered very much. I will try in the morning when my mind is clearer. Susan is pronounced to be an extra scholar. As I was conversing with one of the students, by the name of Hammond, from Carver I ascertained that he was acquainted with Mr Sears. Fathers profitable customer who never pays for his wood.
Mar 16th Wednesday: Cold but pleasant I suppose that my valise has arrived home today, There are considerable of number of scholars from Easton here this term. The names of these I have ascertained are Miss Phebe Ropps, Miss Georgeanna Howard, Miss Bandalk, Mr H Copeland, I cannot divine why. I do not have some letters from some source or other.
Mar 17th Thursday: This is a splendid morning I have been out breathing the fresh air I heard the song of a blue bird, welcome harbinger of Spring. It was the first of that I have heard this Spring. It is nearly school time and I must repair to the academy, and perform the duties of another day. Evening Another day had fled and so have the beauties of this morning, for it is cloudy and looks like rain, soon. I have attended the prayer meeting in the vestry this evening. One of the students which boards here arose for prayers, it was Mr White from Mansfield.
Mar 18th Friday: It rains powerfully this morning. There were not so many scholars present as usual this morning. Evening. I went upon the stage again this afternoon. I did not fail but I did not appear any better than I did when I went before. I did not have so good a piece probably the reason I had a letter from home this evening. Welcome message from home. It comes nearer to being at home than any other thing. After Mr Drayton arrived I went to see him and there I found a carpet bag from home, Let us examine it, on the top is a roll of clothing. And the residue is apples, I do not think I have any reason to think that my friends have forgotten me. I have attended the Lyceum this evening. The question for debate was this, “Resolved that Hungary deserves move of own sympathy than Ireland, It was decided in the negative. But that was not my opinion. The paper which is recited, by misses Pierce & Talbot was read this evening I recognized quite a number of pieces one was from Susan I know. For I read it a few nights before leaving home. It was written some years ago but it was good. Which in the Lyceum we experienced quite a thunder shower. It was quite unexpected for I saw no appearance of it when I entered the Academy.
Mar 19th Saturday: Pleasant but rather cool, No school today I have written two long letters today, one home and the other to Mr Richard Johnson. I have had the unspeakable pleasure to secure one from Augusta. The only trouble was that it was not half long enough.
Mar 20th Sunday: I have attended church morning and afternoon listened to two very good discourses for Mr Aldrich. His text this morning was from Genesis 7 chap & last part of the 16 verses “And the lord shut him in” This afternoon it was from Psalm 40th 1st second & third Verses. From which he delivered a very good sermon. I also attended the Bible class in the Academy this noon. My Jenks explained the relation between God and man in a clearer light than I ever heard it explained before. He also explained that everlasting meant what always was, and always will be. And eternity ngnifes? From now or any stated time through all futurity on that which may never end, I have been to the prayer meeting this evening in the vestry of the Baptist Church.
Mar 21st Monday: This has been a very warm and spring like day. I attended a meeting to Mr Aldrich this evening.
Mar 22nd Tuesday: We have had another beautiful day. The birds sing merrily and spring seems to be opening upon us, I exercise in the gymnasium very freely hoping that I may exercise away my lameness? I feel as though I should like to see the folks at home for a little time, I shall go home at fast, which is on the 7th of April.
Mar 23th Wednesday: Pleasant, very, I received a letter from aunt Olive Today. I am very glad to hear from friends homeward. I attended a prayer meeting in the Academy this evening there seems to be a revival commencing in this place.
Mar 24th Thursday: Quite cool today. But still it seems spring like. I learn some remarkable facts in Chemistry & Psychology everyday. I take notes of some of the most remarkable facts Mr Jenks is giving us lectures at present on the Anatomy of the body. In which time we have a human skeleton to examine, I never saw one before I came here.
Mar 25th Friday: Declamation came off again today. I have not had to bear a part, my turn will be next Friday. After school this afternoon I took a walk, we all went in a company. Accompanied by Mr Jenks and Mr Burnell. We walked about two hours, went to a place called Paradise, a very pleasant place but I should not be willing to accept it as such. After supper went to the hotel. Found my valise which Mr Drayton had bough for me from home. I found it well stored with clothing and apples. But it cast a gloom over me to hear that Mr Abner Drake has hung himself. It gave me a great shock. I cannot write about it. I shall probably learn more about it in a week or two when I go home. I attended the lyceum this evening. The subject for discussions was viz. Resolved that the career of Mohommet was production of more good than evil.
Mar 26th Saturday: There has been no school today. Five weeks of the term have passed away. And the question comes to my mind. Have I spent my time as I ought to have done. I think I have endeavored to and it was my duty to as my parents are very lund? In permitting me to be here. The act of Mr Drake has come (un)voluntarily to my mind many times during the day. I think it must have cast a great shock upon the folks at home, especially father who was one of the first to see him, after he had committed the deed.
Mar 27th Sunday: This has been a very beautiful day I have attended church, heard two very excellent sermons from Mr Burnett, And this eve I have attended the prayer meeting in the lecture room of the church.
Mar 28th Monday: I do not know but I have been doing wrong today but I felt that it would do me no injury to work out in the air a part of the day. So I worked carpentering in the grove I worked 4 ½ hours at 12 cents per hour. I begin to count the days when I shall go home to enjoy a short vacation.
Mar 29th Tuesday: I have attended school today, I have commenced writing Book keeping there seems to be considerable interest manifested on the subject of religion in school at the present time. Three of the students have experienced a hope and others are serious. I hope it will have a good effect upon myself. I think to attend their meetings. And I feel as though I should attend their meetings after I get home. It almost frightens me when I look back and think how I have neglected attending church.
Mar 30th Wednesday: I have passed the day as usual I had the pleasure of receiving two letters this evening. One from home and the other from Mr Richard Johnson, Sharon.
Mar 31st Thursday: It looks likely for a storm this even I have not attended the prayer meeting this evening. It being declaiming day tomorrow, and a difficult Chemistry lesson presenting itself for my immediate attention.
April 1st Friday: Ah! Lucky is the one in Pierce Academy, that has not been “sold” as an April fool, April fooling seems to have been the leading sport of the day. Many an youth has paraded backward and forward through the aisles with a piece of paper pinned to his back. Bearing the marks of the pen of a-a-a fool. I attended the lyceum this evening, but oweing to a very pior? question the debate was not very interesting. The question, viz resolved, that Flattery is productive of more injury than deceit. I think, it would require a very nice critic & scholars. To ascertain the difference between the two sides of the question they so much resemble each other. The Pyerean Garland of this evening contained some very able articles. Besides numerous conundrums and jokes. That would pass well in any paper. One of the conundrum was Why was David like a liquor vendor? Because he gave him a sling which caused him to stagger. (Good.)
April 2nd Saturday: Holiday. I resolved to myself this morning that I would study today, and get my lessons so that I should not be compelled to exert myself so severely on Monday. But so many temptations have presented themselves that I have fell short of the standard. It is pleasant to see the students gathered together in different groups. Enjoying the beautiful weather and I engages in various sports. On the square in front of the church are a group of nearly fifty playing a game of wicket in the grove opposite us are a large number enjoying themselves in swinging. Here we behold the fair sex, who are (no doubt) wishing for some young gallant to escort them through and around the village. (I will sign the preceding paragraph Bachelor.) Evening. I have just come in from the prayer meeting. It has been the most interesting one we have had this term. This ends the last day of the sixth week of the term. And I may well ask myself where has the time fled too? The answer seems to come from the future. It has gone where we shall go. With these grave cogitations I lay down my pen, close my book. And retire.
April 3rd Sunday: I took a pleasant walk this morning before meeting. Attended church in the morning and listened to a very good sermon delivered by Mr J.K.P. Jenks. Principal Of the Academy. He chose his text from Gen 39th Chap. A part of the 9th Verse. Viz how thin can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? Between the sermons I went to see 4 persons baptized by immersion. This is the first time that I ever saw any one baptized in this manner. There has been no sermon preached this afternoon. But the right hand of fellowship was extended to those that were baptized.
April 4th Monday: Warm rain from the south during the day. And this evening we have had a severe thunderstorm. One clap of thunder came immediately after the lightning and shook the house considerably. This marked the second thunder storm we have had here this spring. I do not recollect of ever seeing thunderstorms come so often so early in the spring. I attended the inquiry meeting this evening. If nothing serious happens to me I shall be at home in 48 hours from this time.
April 5th Tuesday: I anticipate the meeting which I shall have at home tomorrow evening with pleasure. I hope nothing may transpire to mar my anticipated enjoyments. Now things present themselves to me everyday which I hope I may reclaim.
April 6th Wednesday: The wished for day has arrived. The rising of the sun bespoke a pleasant day. But soon after the sky was obscured by clouds and rain has continued to fall through the day, in April showers, I arrived home about ½ past 7even after an absence of nearly 7 weeks. If I am spared to read these lines in years to come I may laugh at my precision In noting these minute transactions. But the future is not the present. Father & Mother have attended the funeral of Mary E Smith this afternoon before meeting me at N.B During the four days to come I shall leave my thoughts of study in Middleboro and write from home.
April 7th Thursday: Just at home. I have not learned much news since my arrival home. We have all been to Grandfathers to spend the day. Found them all enjoying very good health.
April 8th Friday: I have been to uncle Isaac's and to see Ira today. I formed Ira the same old six pence I have had the pleasure of seeing Mr & Mrs L Clapp this evening.
April 9th Saturday: This is my last holiday at home for the present. It has been very warm today. Peach trees look as though they would soon be in blossom, I have been assisting father to plough has garden found the ground wet and heavy.
April 10th Sunday: Very pleasant for the season. I've have not attended church today. Cousin George Smith from Rocton Ill made us a call today. He comes twice during the year. To buy goods, he has not been home yet.
April 11th Monday: I am again stationed at my table in Mrs Coembs boarding house recording the little incidents of the day. I arose at half past four this morning. And started from home at 6 oclock Mr Clapp carried us to North Bridgewater. At fifteen minutes past 8 the cars leave that place and arrive here in Middleboro a few minutes before 9. Being nearly ¾ of an hour in preforming a journey of 14 miles. I find the seat at the table, which has been vacant during the term, to be occupied by Miss Bryant a very pretty young lady.
April 12th Tuesday: I do not find myself homesick this time. But I am inclined to think that these remaining four weeks will pass rapidly away. The class in grammar to which I belong have not written composition during the term. But to pay us for good times we have got to write them every other day. I find my book keeping a more difficult study than I was aware of.
April 13th Wednesday: Wind has blown from a southerly direction today. Accompanied with rain. I find that I have got to study more this part of the term than I did the first part of it, or else make more failures. We commence writing composition today.
April 14th Thursday: The wind has changed into the North, but it continues to rain by fits and starts. In the Chemistry lecture today we had an explanation of the cause of the popping of corn when heated. It is owing to the expansion of the oil which it contains throwing that rice? corn is the richest in oil of any of the grains.
April 15th Friday: Pleasant again today. This is our usual declamation day but as we are to have a school tomorrow Our declamation comes thin. I attended the Lyceum this evening, the subject of debate was the following. Resolved, that ancient eloquence is superior to modern. The paper was read. It contained one very good article upon tobacco the rest of was nothing extraordinary? in my manner of thinking.
April 16th Saturday: School keeps today, making the study harder than I really like to. Not so much an account of the lessons of today but on the lessons for Monday I suppose I must rise earlier Monday morning. For I do not intend to study tomorrow. Declamation took place today, but the division to which I do belong not speaking until next week. I received a letter from my friend Dexter Drake.
April 17th Sunday: It has been very rainy today. I have been to church but they are rather thinly seated. I did not attend the prayer meeting this evening. I took cold yesterday, and I thought it would be for my benefit to remain at my room.
April 18th Monday: I arose at ½ past three oclock this morning, and it went to studying, and I had to wash until nearly school time. Before I had my lessons prepared. The lecture in Chemistry today was upon Physiology.
April 19th Tuesday: Pleasant this morning but it become cloudy before night. The lecture in Chemistry today was upon Physiology, the first two dark and rainy days we are to have lectures upon lectures and woody Fiber which is greatly magnified and shown though a magic lantern. I attended the young man's prayer meeting this evening held in the cllas school room.
April 20th Wednesday: Happens to be stormy today. Se hurra? For the “preters”? Through the magic lantern. The Chemistry lecture was quite interesting today, at representation of a magnified leaf was brought to view being cut in two and the edge of the leaf shown by the lantern. It appeared a fool through and we could see the pores of the leaf. Many other parts of plants were shown which were magnified in the same manner. I have written a letter to aunt Betsy.
April 21st Thursday: This day being cloudy we had the remainder of the exhibition with the magic lantern.
April 22nd Friday: Declamation day has at length rolled around to us again and I have again rolled on to the stage and rolled my poor imperfect piece of my mind in a green and awkard manner. The teachers and nearly all of the students from the boarding house have been in an exhibition by Signor Blilr? I had the company of --- ---- of ---- The exhibition consisted in slight of hand performances. Ventriloquism. And the exhibition of this learned canary birds, which would seem to do almost anything at His bidding. The closing scene of the performance consisted in wirling six plates upon the table. During the latter part of the performance we were having a thundershower. We continued in the hall until it partially ceased raining and then we sallied forth. (curtain drops the scene is over)
April 23rd Saturday: It cleared away during the night and this morning is spring like and beautiful. My first business was to take exercise. And as there is no school today I am at liberty to study as hard as I please. I have written a letter to Oren and I should think that it was high time having received one from him a month ago And have not answered it until now. The singing choir met together at 10 this morning and adj, “sine die”? (Evening) I believe it is impossible for me to study on Saturday. I have studied some but not very much. I received a letter from home this evening, It seems as though there was more news in Dry Pond since I have been here this term than ever there was before. They write that Mr Bigelow has sold his farm to Mr Josiah Gay. I feel quite sorry that (he) is going to leave our neighbor hood. They write also that Sharon Folks are very earnest for a road through tom the Old Sharon road to our own road, I have attended the prayer meeting in the Academy this evening. Mr Carlion. The preacher which we are to have tomorrow instead of the Mr Aldrich was present and made some very good remarks. I take it for granted that we shall have good preaching tomorrow. In two weeks we shall be separated some for only a short vacation and others. Perhaps to be always separated. I have formed the acquaintance of many young men whom I shall find it hard to part with. I think I have written enough for this day.
April 24th Sunday: Alexander and myself have been to Dr Putnam's church, a distance of about two miles. I think I have been well prepared. Dr J is an old man and there are very many aged and apparently devout worshipers in the congregation. The meeting house is very large. Much larger than is usually seen. In the evening six or eight of the student boarders have waked to Titicut today to hear Mr Bullock (one of the students) preach, I should have gone but the company was not such as I should desire for the Sabbath, I have attended a prayer meeting in the Congregationalist church this evening.
April 25th Monday: Another working day has come and gone. I am forcibly reminded of the shortness of time. As I think that I have but two weeks to remain here. The longer I sustain my journal the more I see the value of it. It is a better of past events. Where a person can write his innermost thoughts. And in the future years he may again peruse it and ascertain if he has advanced any towards the great end of life.
April 26th Tuesday: I believe I have taken cold but a long as it does not trouble me any more than at present I shall not trouble it. I have received a letter from Aunt Betsy this evening. All well. No particular news. Mr Jenks wished the students to accommodate him this evening by working in the grove. I have complied by working an hour. I have not labored so hard these three months.
April 27th Wednesday: Pleasant the grass looks quite green. I suppose father has begun to plough by this time.
April 28th Thursday: Our lessons in Chemistry for tomorrow is 40 pages review.
April 29th Friday: This has been the last declamation day for this term. The Pholomathean? society met this evening for the last time this term. The exercises were different from usual. It was rather an exhibition consisting of dialogue. One of them spoken by 13 young ladies, entitles the queen of Scots and Mary of England was pronounced the best that has ever been spoken in this place, the other one of a humorous character was excellent. This was entitled The Dr. in spite of himself. Mr Lazell and Miss Talbot played prominent Parts. Take it all around it was a grand affair. It closed about 10 ½ oclock. I recovered a supply of apples from home this evening.
April 30th Saturday: Warm and pleasant I have not studied much today. This afternoon I had the curiosity to go to the herring wares/weirs? to see them capture the Yamton turkies? The supplies of herrings which they catch yearly. Nearly pays the taxes of this town I have attended the evening meeting this evening.
May 1st Sunday: Pleasant I have attended church all day, and listened to a very good discourse from Mr Aldrich during the intermission there 3 young persons baptized making seven since I came into the place. After I had got snugly into bed this evening the alarm of fire rang through the village. And we all started from the boarding house not knowing where the fire was, but we soon found that it was in the woods about half a mile distant known as paradise. By the time we has arrived the fire was nearly extinguished.
May 2nd Monday: This afternoon were again called out by the cry of fire! It broke out about ¼ of a mile from the boarding house and contained to rage about two hours before it could be extinguished. This also was the work of an incendiary $100, reward has been offered for his detention?
May 3rd Tuesday: The time for our examination I hardly know how to book for it. I hardly think that we shall have as many visitors as Mr Stone has when in East Sharon. I have to study quite hard at present it being the last week of the term.
May 4th Wednesday: Our examination commences tomorrow afternoon, the recitations will pass on as usual. Expecting we must be able to answer every thing in the book. That idea is not very congenial to my tastes for I fear I may come out minus. The exchanging of cards seems to be the rage at present.
May 5th Thursday: Our examination commenced this afternoon but on account of the storm I suppose we have but one visitor to see us. I know now how it will be tomorrow but if this is specimen of the examinations they are nothing to be feared.
May 6th Friday: The spring term of P. Academy closed this noon. We had but few visitors to see us. This afternoon a number of students assisted Mr Jenks in removing the removable? partitions of the second story. Preparatory for our social gathering and the teachers Institute which is to be holden in this place the coming week. A great number of the students remain to attend it. Our social gathering passes off finely this evening the amusements consisted in promenading in a circle round the hall. It was needless o state in what manner this was done. It was done in such a manner as to please both sex. After numerous toasts and a number of speeches and several performances upon the piano the principal and teachers bade us good night and we separated and thus ends my present connection with Pierce Academy for the present. But it is not without feelings of regret. I have formed many pleasant acquaintances here. And I have also become much attached to Mr Jenks and the teachers. And whenever I think of them it will be with feelings of regret. I have engaged one or two correspondents so that I may hear from them during the next Term. And so that I may improve myself in composition.
May 7th Saturday: I left Middleboro this morning at 9 oclock this morning. I met father in N Bridgewater reached home about noon. Found the folks all well and glad to see me. But perhaps not more so than I was to see them. On reaching home I heard that Mr Marlin Gay and wife had removed to North Bridgewater if I had known it when I came through there I think I should have called to see them.
May 8th Sunday: I have not attended church today. I thought when I was in Middleboro that after I got home I should attend church regularly and I think so now if I can once get the ice broken.
May 9th Monday: I have been quite unwell today I was taken very suddenly this morning with cold chills and it was not until this afternoon that I got warm I have taken a sweat this evening which has relieved me some. Granfather called to see us today. All the family have been sick with the rash and Grandfather has had another attack of the neuralgia. But they are all better now. Friend Ira also called to see me. While they were here I was flat upon the floor enjoying myself.
May 10th Tuesday: I have not not been able to go out much today. I think I shall get along without having a fever. I was afraid this morning that I should have one for my pulse was up to 110. Father has commenced planting he has Albert Abbett? to assist him.
May 11th Wednesday: I am on the gaining hand I think. Not able to do much yet.
May 12th Thursday: I have dropped a little corn in the forenoon and in the afternoon went to uncle Isaacs. I believe the estate is settled Aunt Hannah takes the house and the land on the same side. And they will remain on the place. Isaac loves to talk about military business as well as ever I believe he is cut out for a military man.
May 13th Friday: Father and Albert finished preparing the ground for planting corn. And I have been covering this afternoon. Work does not yet come as easy as I wish it might.
Journal at Home
1853
October 17th Monday: A long, blank, space seems to have appeared in my journal which is in vain for me to remedy. Many things have transpired this past summer which might be recorded with profit but which I cannot at present recall. But as I have considerable leisure time perhaps I cannot better improve it than by again commencing my journal, and as this is my birthday I am resolved to commence now. My health has been very poorly this summer my lameness troubling me continually I have done but very little labor this season. But it has given me ample time to read and write letters. The letter part I have performed quite faithfully. Today I have written one to Lasell, my chum while at school. Our corn crop has been rather more than middling. Potatoes very light & rotten we had but about 23 bush. Father says he never had so few.
October 18th Tuesday: We have been digging carrots some. I cannot help much excepting to cut off the tops. Mr P Drake has been up from the village (where he resides) to remove his two sisters (who were buried about fifty years ago). To his new lot many of the bones were remaining but the coffins were almost entirely decomposed. James is drawing wood for father for father has had two very sick turns this summer & is not able. & James has had a very severe sore upon his hand which terminated with the loss of two fingers. & which troubles him about working at his trade.
October 19th Wednesday: I think that this must be our Indians summer for the weather is very beautiful indeed, unlit within a few days the weather during this fall has been quite unpleasant. We have finished storing our carrots. We have 23 bush, the same number we had last year, although we has a much larger piece of ground but the dry weather during the summer injured them. I prophecy a storm tomorrow for there has been an uncommon “turn out” among the ladies.
October 20th Thursday: I must give up prophecying for my prophecy of last evening seems to be an entire failure; for we have not had a more pleasant day for a number of weeks. I have taken a longer walk this afternoon than I have before for two or three months. Viz been around dry pond. But it fatigued me considerably.
October 21st Friday: I cannot write much for today. For my thoughts do not seem inclined “to slip of my pen”. I think of going to Grandfathers the beginning of next week to spend another week I was there several weeks since and spent a few days, and I came home better; it may have a beneficial effect this time.
October 22nd Saturday: This is a fit day to employ himself with. For the day is dark and the rain falls in generous showers. We have received a final call from E. L. Pierce Esq. Preparatory to his leaving for Cincinatti where he intents establishing himself as a Lawyer. Mr Thayer has an auction of some of his personal property, he is going to remove to N Bridgewater, Father has gone to the auction.
October 23rd Sunday: Life of Dr Pay. I have been reading the life of Mr Payson. He delighted in doing good and would not rest satisfied until he has accomplished every thing in his power for the good of others. I have finished reading, “Shady Side or life in a Country Parsonage, it is quite shady truly, but very interesting withal. The author appears to hold the pen of “ready writer” and she has penned a tale too true.
October 24th Monday: “Pigeon Swamp” Father brought me down this morning. I find Grandfather & Grandmother both quite unwell with colds. Aunt Betsy is just beginning to recover from one of her ill turns. (evening) We are now having a severe gale from the south and the rain is falling in torrents.
October 25th Tuesday: It has been so cold and uncomfortable that I have not dared to venture much out of the house. I am reading “The Sceptic” I hope it will be service to me. Grandmother's cold is better. Grandfather has severe coughing spells.
October 26th Wednesday: Uncle Moses & William? have been harvesting corn. Their corn is very good this season but is has lain on the ground to long to be of any benefit to it. Aunt Olive has been to a sewing circle this afternoon.
October 27th Thursday: I have been to Canton this afternoon with aunt Olive. I have appropriated the money that mother & Melissa gave me as a birthday gift, for the City & Country life a book written by Mrs Mary Ide Torrez, daugh of Dr Ide of Medfield. Perhaps I have erred in my choice. But as my library of book is nearly all of a religious nature. I thought I would have one of more literary cast. Aunt Olive has made me a present of a book as a birthday gift. It is written by a lady of Walpole. It seems as if time has increased his speed for a few days past.
October 28th Friday: It has been stormy and I have spent a part of the day in reading. I have had the pleasure of perusing an almanac & newspaper printed in the year 1770, they present a very antique appearance, They do not look like the productions of the present day.
October 29th Saturday: The day has been very fine, & I should carried some of the family to ride but unele Moses & family have been to Mr Drake Hodges'es so the horse has been in use, Grandfather has shown me some of the old Continental money. I think that but few young persons of the present day have ever seen the money used before the revolution. This week has gone with rapid flight. This is always the case when persons are enjoying themselves.
October 30th Sunday: Uncle William & aunt Olive have been to church and I remained at home with the rest of the family I have spent the day in reading principally. Augusta came home with aunt and who should make his appearance here this evening but Seth Gay! It is half past 9 and still he remains, and probably intends to by the looks of the bright fire in the parlor fireplace. I think if it had not come Mr Gay would not!
October 31st Monday: Father came after me quite early this morning, which spoiled my visit with Augusta as she would not come if I had not been there I am very sorry to disappoint her. I have enjoyed myself very much and my lameness, is considerable better. I called to see the DR on my way home, he says I look much better a word of encouragement from a doctor is a good thing. Eveline's mother died while I was on my visit her disease was the dropsy.
November 1st Tuesday: Since I have come home my lameness is worse there much be some charm in pigeon swamp which drives away my neurology. Mother has committed a wonder this afternoon, viz (been visiting)
November 2nd Wendesday: I feel quite ill this evening. I can hardly tell what is the trouble. Melissa & Susan have been spending the afternoon at Mt Lucius Clapp's.
November 3rd Thursday: I have been quite unwell today. I hardly remember the time when I felt so sick. During last night my lameness entirely left me. So that I can now walk quite well. I think this is the cause of my being unwell. Esther Smith has spent the day with us but I have not much enjoyed her visit.
November 4th Friday: I feel some better today but probably not so well as if I was lame, but I can hardly realize that I can walk without being hurt at every step.
November 5th Saturday: My health is better but my lameness has returned. So Mr neuralgia is not inclined to leave me yet, if he is to remain I need patience. Susan & James Clapp have spent a part of the evening with us.
November 6th Sunday: I have commenced reading the New Testament and explanatory notes as it is in the Cottage Bible. I have also finished reading the Life of Dr Edward Payson, he wore himself out in doing good, and died at the age of 44 years.
November 7th Monday: I thought I was getting along finely, but this afternoon and evening I have had symptoms of fever and Father has been after the doctor but he is unwell and cannot come until tomorrow morning but he sent some medicine and I am to take a sweat.
November 8th Tuesday: I has one of the best sweats last night that fever before and I feel very much better excepting my lameness which is considerable worse. The doctor came this morning he thinks I shall get along this time without a fever. The folks made a fire in the south room and I have been living a privileged person. We are now having our first fall of snow. The ground is partially covered but the wind is south and the weather is moderating, so that all trace of it will soon disappear I think.
It is a sign that when the lulls are longer than the gusts that the storm is decreasing and I believe it may be true with regard to my journal, for it is certainly the case with me, for it is now nearly six months since I have taken any notice of it. But I have done nothing in the time worthy of noting having been confined to the house by my old companion, Neuralgia. I now intend to make another effort to continue writing for I am concerned if properly attended to. It will enable a person to convey his thoughts in a more lucid manner than he would be likely to if he did not attend to it.
1854
April 18th Tuesday: Our good old neighbor Mr B Payson was buried today. He closed this life on Sunday evening without a struggle, while sitting in his chair, he has been affected with a disease of the heart for some years and, it is supposed to be that which caused his death. He was a man loved by all. And has resided in this neighborhood nearly fifty years. The spring is very backward, last Sat. the snow fell to the depth of six inches, & it also snowed during the day yesterday, but without accumulating much. There has been nothing done by farmers towards their springs work. Not even plowed their gardens.
April 19th Wednesday: Mrs Sarah M Wold was buried in this yard today. Her disease was consumption. The day has been warm and the snow has run finely. It has been my lot to be confined to the house during the greater part of the last six months. My fetters are made of Neuralgia. I am not yet sufficient well to do any labor.
April 20th Thursday: James has commenced work for the season for Mr Vose, there are to be several quite nice houses built in the village during the coming summer. Capt Hills/Terrels? will probably be the most expensive.
April 21st Friday: We heard the bell toll for the oldest inhabitant of this town. Hannah Goodwin, she was 103 years old.
April 22nd Saturday: Usually at this time of the spring farmers are busy, preparing and putting their seed into the ground, but we see nothing of the kind at present.
April 23rd Sabbath: The day has been stormy, I have spent a considerable portion of the day in reading the life of Dr Judson. I think no candid reader can read it without recovering a benefit.
May 8th Monday: We have had no warm weather since I wrote in my journal 2 weeks since. It rained powerfully for nearly five days and for two nights the ground has frozen considerably and today feels more like the first of March than the 8th of May. Usually at this time of the season farmers have their planting pretty well along, but this season there has been scarcely nothing done. Father is ploughing today to sown down/clown/corn?. I understand that Dexter Drake has gone to Ohio to spend the summer. He has been unwell for about a year, and has probably gone to regain his health. His complaints are consumptive. I sincerely hope he may be benefited, I also hear that Mr L H Sline/Stone? has left North Bridgewater where he has been teaching for the past year and gone to New York. I believe his business is in a lumber yard, I am somewhat surprised that he should leave his favorite avocation.
We were not a little surprised a few days since hearing the marriage of Georg Smith of Illinois and in a few days after we had the pleasure of receiving his marriage card “done up” in good shape. He spent past day with us but we noticed he had something heavy on his mind but we had no suspicions of the real cause, imputing it to his trading transactions. We had a visit from Grandfather & Grandmother last week. They are now very aged & we cannot expect them to visit us much more.
May 18th Thursday: Since I wrote last we have had some warm summer days, but a great quantity of wet weather. Father commenced planting yesterday, he has a boy working for him by the name of Humphrey. There has been some talk about his taking him, but it is not decided he is from Maine. Fruit trees are now beginning to look white, there is a full blossom generally. Our greening trees took their turn last season and are not blossoming much this season. Charles Richards gave us a short call on Tuesday he is from college, has one year more to remain. He was probably attracted to Massachusetts by a piece of mass/Morse in Sharon.
May 22nd Monday: Father finished planting on Saturday, although the first part of Spring was very backward and farmers were delayed in their operations until late. Vegetation appears to be making rapid advancement and I think now looks as forward as usual. The lawsuit between Mr William Pierce & Mr Welcome Dunbar in reference to Aunt Hannah Smiths property has at last ended in the defeat of Mr Pierce. This is as was expected by most people on account of the difficulty of breaking a will. Although Mr Dunbar has the law on his side it does not prove that justice has been done, and I think his own conscience will testify to the truth of this.
May 27th Saturday: There was an annular Eclipse of the sun yesterday, but owing to the cloudy state of the weather it was not to be seen, doubtless disappointing many anxious eyes. There will not be a similar one in 18 years.
June 21st Wednesday: It is now considerable time since I wrote in my journal, I do so little worth recording that I lose my interest. We have experienced, within a week, two quite severe tempests. In the first shower much damage was done by lighting about us the nearest-was at Mr John Birds, it killing both his cows. In the last shower, day before yesterday, a young man by the name of Reynolds was struck & killed in N. Bridgewater.
Susan is teaching our teaching our school this summer. We are now studying together on an entirely new plan. Our study is Gugot's Earth and Mass. We read several pages and write abstracts upon it. We find it very interestng and an excellent discipline to the mind. We have been making alterations to my chamber the past few days. It now presents a much more pleasing aspect, the new paper being very light-colored, it makes the room much lighter. We have had one of the beds removed and in its place I intend to have a table and book case. ----- George Humphrey left s yesterday morning and is, I suppose, in Maine by this time. He appeared to regret returning considerably.
Monday July 24: My journal is almost among the things that were. But as I find enough to do when I feel well enough. And my study of Gugot's Earth & man, occupies much of my leisure time. I neglect you, poor journal. We are now in the midst of meadow haying, our English hay was of greater furthen than usual. Hay this season is more plenty generally than it has been for 2 or 5 years past.
Saturday Eve Nov 1 18/54: Another week has passed away; & I am still permitted to remain in this land of the living. And with present prospects of better health than last winter. But the future is wisely withheld from us. And if we wisely improve the present it is all that we are commanded to do. I have had my early school days pleasantly brought to mind, this evening by a call from one of my former teachers; Miss M. J. Dickerman. I can look back upon those days, as among the most pleasant of my life. And feel that I did not fully appreciate the happiness that I was then taking, and if my life is spared it will probably be true of the present. Surrounded by kindred and friends as I now am. It is too true that we do not appreciate God's blessings fully until they are withdrawn.
March 6th 1855: I now commence my journal again, I will make no resolutions this time and then I shall be likely to break any. But I aim in hopes to continue it for some time, I am now cutting wood for James & Isaac who bought a lot of wood of Mr. Lucius Clapp. My health is quite good but am still some lame.
March 7th Father and Mother have been to uncle Randall's today. It is over 4 years since they have been there before. Has informed this morning of the death of Widow andrew? Drake, Boston. She was quite wealthy. She has always been very kind to the poor. I understand she has nearly supported 25 widows during the past winter, when such a person dies it is a loss to the community.
March 17th Sat: It is now eleven days since I have written in my journal but I can recall all of the incidents that concern me during this time. There have been four deaths in this and adjourning towns all persons over 70 years of age. Viz Mr Elijah Glover Mr Jeremiah Rose. Mr Dependence French & Miss Hannah Holmes. Death is a subject which concerns us all. It is a scene through which we must pass sooner or later. If we were to live to the age of Methusela we must die, but to him that is prepared it is a joyful event, but to him that is not, nothing can be more solemn. (In this entry he begins to write "Private Journal" at the top of each page and continues this practice for the rest of the journal.)
The all absorbing topic of the neighborhood is the supposed intention of marriage of Mr Pierce. I will not write about it now but reserve it until the time. I have cut about 25 cords of wood and sold about $7.00 worth of axe handles. I have done various smaller jobs which have kept my time pretty well occupied. I now intend to put up a turning lathe in the shop & hope it will become useful to me
March 18th Sabbath Eve I have been reading today in Exodus of God's dealing with the Israelites, of his forbearance toward them through their murmurings & rebellions. Of the plagues which he brought upon Pharaoh for retaining them in bondage of their miraculous escape and the total overthrow of Pharaoh and all his hosts. The Book of Genesis comprises a period of 2269 years and Exodus only 145 years. The more I read the Bible, the better I love it. it is truly the Book of Books.
Friday Morning Mar 23 I have worked in the woods all the week and at night feel too fatigued to write much. Father went to Boston yesterday with a load of hoops. He expected a storm time but this morning is the pleasantest of the season but rather cool. Just two years ago this morning Mr Drake committed suicide. Mother says it was very much such a morning as this. I have forgotten as I ws at Middleboro at the time & did not hear of it until several days after.
Sat. Eve March 24 The wind blows up cold this evening from the N West & we have had a glance at Spring. Summer & Winter all in one day. At one time a warm sun at another April shower and next a snow storm. I have cut wood every day this week and am not at all sorry to have a resting day tomorrow. Father was very fortunate in selling his hoops. He never has any trouble in that respect if the purchaser knows what they are.
Monday Mar 26 I have finished cutting wood for James & Isaac I have worked 12 day and am in hopes that I have 12 cords. Should know when it is drawed together This morning it was pleasant but now we are having a snowstorm. Our paper statetes that the Emperor Nicholas is dead. This may materially affect the Eastern Question.
Tuesday Mar 27 I have been to carry mother to grandfather's this afternoon to spend a few days. I found them all well but Aunt Betsy.
Wednesday Mar 28 I have been today and cut out a small piece if woods for fire-wood on Wells Hill. Now that the wood is cut off on the Leavitt lot, there is the finest prospect of any place I know of. All the Bridgewaters can be seen and nothing prevents the eye from seeing as far as possible without the aid of a spy glass. On reaching home I was informed that my much esteemed friend D. H. Drake had been to see me. Very sorry I was not here to see him. I have spent a part of the evening with Mr Clapp's family. The Old Club sings to Sharon this evening. They have them every two weeks alternately in Sharon, Canton, & Stoughton. As Mother is to Pigeon Swamp, I think it quite probable she will attend. I know it will be a feast for her.
Thursday Mar 29 Today has brought a new member to the place. She comes as wife to Mr. Pierce. Something appertaining to this affair is in every neighbor's mouth and well it may be for such occurrences seldom occur in our quiet place. For my part I am really glad that he has got married and hope his home will wear a more cheerful aspect than it has during the past winter. Heard from Mother today by Isaac. She was at the Old Club last evening. I have been cutting wood for Father today by Mr Mortons Have done a pretty hard day's work but will not brag.
Friday Mar 30 I have been cutting wood near Story Swamp. found it almost to warm to cut wood. This has been the warmest day we have had this spring.
Saturday Mar 31 March came in like a lamb & it certainly goes out like one. The day has been much warmer than it was yesterday. I have been doing all sorts of jobs today. worked in the shop this forenoon, been to Uncle Isaac'sHiram Leonards, John E Drake &c this afternoon. Almost every man without exception that I saw inquired about Mrs. Pierce. All seem exceptionally interested.I have not seen her yet, must call soon. Susan called this forenoon, informed me that Mr Bradford Waete's? health is declining.I feel interested in his case as it commenced in a similar manner to mine, but they fear it is becoming seated on his lungs and that he will not recover. I recommended a trial of the Peruvian syrup for I think it has helped me But if it is the will of God that he shall not recover, may he be prepared to meet the change.
Saturday, May 5 I have been to North Easton today with Isaac and Ira to see the military company parade, but as it looked likely to rain they did not appear out. But we had an invitation to visit the various shops which we accepted with pleasure. It fully pays to walk through these shops and see the various processes through which a shovel passes before it is ready for use. It is pleasing to see with what ease every part is done. Many parts being done by machines erg. I was quite pleased to meet Charles Dunbar while stepping around the village. It is now nearly a year & a half since I have seen him. He appears to remain the same as formerly.
I walked to the village & home for the second time for more than two years. I brought home my coat that I had made. It cost me 12 dollars & I am very well satisfied with it. More so than I am with a saw that I bought. It appeared to me better in the store than it does now. Perhaps because James has passed his opinion of it, but I guess it will do its work as well as I shall mine.
Tuesday, May 8 I commenced work today for James at $1.12 pr day & board myself. We began on James Drake’s house and worked during the forenoon but the afternoon has been very stormy & we had no work that we could do.
Wednesday, May 9 It has been a very cold storm of rain and snow from the N. E. all day. I have had but little to do, therefore I have but little to write. This cold storm set my lameness to work, which makes me feel quite natural. I feel about as tired tonight as if I had been framing all day.
Thursday, May 10 I have been framing today, not having done much carpentry for several months it makes me rather sore and lame. Our “gang’ consists of James, Isaac, and myself. James intends to work large ten hours commencing some before 7 in the morning & leaving off about 6 at night.
May 12 Sat. Eve Another week has passed away and I still remain a monument of God’s mercy. It would be a great attempt to record all this mercy to me during the past week and the past is only a repetition of all my former ones. I feel great consolation in thinking that every burden that is imposed upon us for our own good nor shall we have one more than is for our best good. As I had two more small jobs at grafting I did not work on the house this forenoon, but finishjed them, this concludes my grafting campaign for the season, having set about 450 scions.
May 19 Sat. Eve It is now a week since have written in my journal & I have considerable that I should like to write, but this evening lik all the rest the past finds me tired. This afternoon we have raised J. Drake’s house. We have had good weather for framing every day & we have improved them, & it appears to me that I never saw foliage put forth so rapidly as it has for the last six days. Last Sabbath there was scarcely a green leaf to be seen but now everything is clothed in green & some fruit trees are in bloom.
We were pleased to receive a visit from Charles Richards on Monday, he is spending his college vacation with his friends in Sharon and vicinity. His prison life in college expires in August. Say he will feel like a young person at twenty onne.
A company of 8 or 10 presented Mrs. Payson with a May basket on Thursday evening. It contained about $14 besdes $6 or 8 worth of provisions; tho old lady appeared well pleased with her donation.
Sabbath Eve Ma 20 I felt thankful for the Sabbath in which we may rest from our daily labor. The kind Creator knows our frailties and prepares accordingly for it is said “The Sabbath was made for man & not man for the Sabbath.” Therefore it is my duty to spend it as He desires and thereby make a Sabbath day’s journey toward the Heavenly Canaan.
Monday May 21 This has been a cold day for the season but a good day for carpentering, but rather windy for boarding. We have boarded the walls and are now nerly ready to rase the roofing. Our school commenced today, the teacher is Miss Maria Tolman of S. Sharon.
Tuesday May 22 We worked until about ½ past 9 when the rain impelled us to leave off. This afternoon I have been to the village in company with Isaac and Ira. Upon reaching home I found our much esteemed friend A. W. Belcher here. He has been in Mississippi 21 months. His business is selling cotton gins. I should think he might be doing well with $75 per month & found.
Saturday Eve, June 2 It is now nearly 2 weeks since I have journalized at all. But as I have not been the hero of any remarkable event, perhaps it will make but little difference. It is now quite dry weather notwithstanding we have had every appearance of rain within the last few days. Farmer begin to have some anxiety about their grass crop. It will certainly be light unless rain comes soon. I have worked a carpentering all the time excepting a day and a half. On Wednesday ( Old “lection”) I went to Canton to see the military company. I have been in the world 22 years and never saw any military before. Before I went to see them I was quite desirous of joining them, but I returned hom quite well satisfied with my lot. Therefore it was well I went. As a general thing it is not out best men who are military men.
Grandfather, grandmother and A. Betsy have been to see us this week but I was to Canton and did not have the pleasure of seeing them. I think probable there are other things I should like to write, but as I cannot recall them they must slip.
Tuesday, June 5
Jumping to
Saturday, September 15 This night makes out six days that I have worked this week. I wrote a letter to Oren this morning There are several more that I ought to write to friendsbut when I work I cannot get time. It is more than I do to continue my journal up as I ought to.
Sabbath, September 16 I spend every other day more conscinciously than I do the Sabbath. And why is it? I do not race about the fields nor visit the neighbiors, but spend it in reading the Bible or some other good book, but I do not rest satisfied with that. I feel as though I ought to attend church, but I have staid away so long that nothing come harder than to go.
Monday, Sept 17 Isaac & myself have finished the floors this afternoon and I am not sorry either. It is extremely hot and dry with us? Every appearance of rain disappears. Mr Drake returned from N. H. Saturday. He says there have been several rainy afternoons snce he went up there. I understand that he brought about 40 hoads, mostly young cattle for beef.
Tuesday, Sept 18 The day commenced dry warm amd sulty and continued so until about 2 o’clock when the wind changed in the North East and like the poet, “We could smell the sea breeze in the heat of the day.” It soon then began to rain and continued to do so until the evening. Isaac and myself have been at work alone today as James has been to Boston. Mr Draper Esq. wishes him to build him a house in Dorchester, and James has some idea of doing it. But he was disappointed about finding him as he was at Dedham Court. He lost his journey but I hope he will try again. But while he was going through the market he saw Uncle John Randall, who told him that Aunt Olive was sick with the Typhoid fever. He thought that she was not very sick, said the Doctor thought he could break it up. That is a bad fever and I hope it will not have a cause. I fear it will be sickly after the sudden change.
Thursday, September 20