WILBUR
COLLECTION
UNIVERSITY
OF
VERMONT
LIBRARY
Mason, Mary S. Davis
Young lady's diary, Fairlee, VT,
1883-93
Small Bound Manuscript
15
This book was received from Harry E. Kelley
on February 15, 1947. I never saw it before,
but it was Sister Mae's diary.
After looking it over a ltitle, I conclude
that it has been assembled from a number of
old diaries which she did not care to keep in
their original form. Poor girl! she did have
"heart trouble" which hastened her death.
How much it would have meant to me
if she could have lived until now!
Rosalene Davis Ordway
31.
re
ns.
tce
1
Monday, Jan. 1, 1883.
Fairlee., I attended school. Nell Colby, teacher.
There was to have been a sing at Renfrews this evening
but it did not turn out to be much of a success.
Mr & Mrs Baldwin and Mr & Mrs Rugg were there: Father,
Mother, Rosa, Teacher and myself went over:
We sang some and had a general good time.
Olin walked home with Teacher and me.
It has been a cold day and is still colder tonight.
Tuesday, Jan. 2,
Attended school. Teacher and myself went with Elmer
to a dance at Geo. Porters, at "Amsterdam." Father and
John were also there. About twenty-four couples were
present. I was greatly surprised during an "all
schottiche around the hall - but H.P.W. got a "proper
distance" all right.
Elmer froze his ear coming home, where we arrived
at twenty minutes of two oclock. Awful, awful cold.
We had a delightful time.
Friday, Jan. 5
Went to school. Olin, teacher and myself attended
singing school, and they left me at Baryy E. Adams'
to the dance; from there I came home with John.
2
Warren Davis played for us: Not a very large com-
pany out, but had a good time and got home
at twenty-five minutes of three o'clock.
Tuesday, Jan. 9,
Had a great time at school today; Sib and I got
mad at teacher about our Arithmetic lessons:
We had a pretty good row - I told her just what
I thought on our way home at noon.
Spent the evening in trying to play a fiddle.
Wed. Jan. 10 - 1883
Went to school. Sabra, Harry, Olin and Elmer came
in tonight to celebrate my seventeenth birth-day.
We spent the time in playing "scissors," "rolling-tire"
and eating pop-corn. Sabra staid with me all
night: we laid awake talking until past mid-night.
Received a letter from Nettie White.
Mon. Jan. 15,
Went to school in the fore-noon and after-noon
Mother and I went to Bradford.
I got myself a fur cap and Autograph album.
Attended singing school with Olin this evening and
had a fine time.
3
Sat. Jan. 20
John Paige here to day: I have been washing and mending.
Mrs Corliss came down this afternoon and brought her
sewing. This is John and Kate Clements' eighteenth
anniversary. We all went up there to spend the
evening; some of the other neighbors were there
and all the young folks. We danced and played
games and had a general good time; got home
at midnight: the wind blows and it hails.
Friday, Jan. 26 -
Went to school about an hour this morning
just long enough to tell Nell Colby what I
think of her - and graduated from Frogville
Academy.
Olin and I went to singing school and had
a good time: It was awful cold to night.
Monday, Jan 29 -
Sib and I departed from Frogville for Union
district to go to school: and board at the Capt. Amos
Clements. We did about thirty-five examples
this evening in Arithmetic.
We now have Annie F. Chamberlin for teacher.
4
Tuesday, Jan 30 -
Had a fine time this noon at the school house
washing the boys faces.
Tonight after school Sib and I went over to
Matie's to see his pet coon; he brought us back
with a team. We have also done sixteen examples.
Thursday, Feb. 1, 1883.
School closed at two o'clock: Mr Clement took Sabra
and me to Bradford to attend Teachers Institute,
but it was so late we did not attend the after-
noon session, but went over to Merritt Davis: had
supper with France and Jane: walked over to the
institute in the evening: Charlie came at closing
time: After we went up stairs to go to bed there
was some excitement and I came pretty near
being disgusted at some of the performances.
Friday, Feb. 2;
Sabra and I walked from Merritts to the Institute
this morning - it was fearfully cold.
Got weighed at Day's drug-store, and 154 1/2 pounds is
the record: Took dinner at Sadie Robie's.
Went back to the institute for after noon session.
Later Sib went home and I went out on South
5
Road with Eva and Elroy Davis to remain over night.
Saturday, Feb. 3.
The wind blows and it has snowed all day, some
eight inches having fallen.
I have busied myself beading lace.
Elroy brought me back to Clements this after noon.
I have been knitting and writing Will Sanders to night.
Sunday, Feb. 4
Did not get up until almost noon - It has been
the longest day I ever saw.
Mr Clement carried me down home this after noon
and returned in about an hour.
Sib and I ciphered this evening.
Monday, Feb. 5.
Went to school and afterward sewed on some buttons.
Elroy came for me about half past six to go to a
dance at Carl Smith's. I danced just twice: the
house was more than full as there were one hundred
and forty persons present.
I wont forget sitting on the floor with Roy.
I froze my ear coming home, where we arrived
at a quarter past five in the morning.
Tuesday Feb. 13 -
Sib and I went with Frank Gove to a party
at Mait Jenkins' to night: got home at twenty
minutes of eleven.
Wednesday, Feb. 14,
St. Valentine's day. Went to school. Fran Williams
made a short call on us girls tonight, then
we ciphered a while, - doing nineteen.
Harry Kelley came down and spent the evening
with us: How the "over-shoes" did act!
Sat. Feb. 17
At home. Have been knitting more or less: Olin was
here a while in the afternoon and we attended
singing school this evening: the last one of the
season: we had a good time and got home
at a quarter past eleven.
Monday - Feb. 19
John Clement brought us back to "Union village"
this morning: great excitement prevails on
account of a big fire at the village which
occurred in the vicinity of two oclock this morning.
Ten buildings were destroyed, including the
7
Post Office, several offices, stores etc.
Frank and Mary Gove, Sib and I went up to see
the ruins this evening.
Wed. Feb. 21 -
Went to school: Sib and I went with Mr Gove
and Frank to singing school at Bradford: We happened
to meet Roy Davis and Harry Kelley and went
with them for a ride nearly to South Newbury.
Roy brought us down home.
Friday, Feb. 23 -
School closed - and Mr Clement brought us down
home.
Friday, Mar 9 -
Hattie Crawford is with us just now.. she and
I have been most all over Frogville: called at
Clements', Freeman's, and Renfews.
Tonight went to a dance at Ed Lucas' with Olin.
Had a first-rate time: when we started for home
discovered Geo. Porters' house burning.
Got home about three o'clock.
8
Monday, Mar. 12. - 1883
On account of a recent big snow-storm which
drifted badly - we did'nt get to Bradford as
early as we hoped.
Went to the academy this afternoon and
lived through it some-how: on our way
home from school we met Hattie and Josie
Crawford and they took tea with us.
Ellis Shumway called and invited us to go to
a dance but we did not accept the invitation.
Sib and I are comfortably settled at Bert
Underwood's.
Tuesday - Mar 13.
Harry Kelley called to invite us to go to the
dance - but we did not accept.
Monday, Mar 19
Have been to school: Paid Mr Cummings $2.25
for first half of tuition: also bought a new
reader for $1.25
Harry Renfrew and Harry Kelley came up to
our room and spent the evening - we played
eucre. After the boys left Sib went to bed -
about ten - and I studied until twelve.
9
Friday, Mar 30.
We went down to Amos Clements with him after
school, had supper there: then took John Clements
team and went on down home.
On my arrival found the house full of company.
including Mr & Mrs Rugg; - Mr & Mrs Renfrew; Mr
and Mrs Gilmore and Mr and Mrs Baldwin.
Saturday, Mar. 31.
I have been busy with washing and other work and
doing examples.
Father and Mother visited at Gilmores this after-
noon and evening.
The Calthumpian Band was at our house for
the evening - the party consisted of Herbert Warren,
Barzy Adams, Walter Abbott, Bie Hutton, and
Susie Wiggins: we had lots of music and pop-
corn. Mr & Mrs Renfrew and Olin came in a
little while. Great time.
Tues. Apr 10
Attended school, after it let out Sib and I went
with Mertie Avery over to the South End.
Miss Nelson made us a short call: Then Sib and
I went for another walk up to the Pine woods and
10
over across lots to Avery's - just calling at the
door a minute and finally got home again
after wading a brook and jumping stone walls
and fences. Harry Kelley spent the evening
with us.
Wed. Apr. 11
Attended school: This after noon we attended
teachers' class: it was fine.
The first division down stairs and the second
up stairs had rhetorical exercises.
After school hours I went home with Sadie
Robie and May Corliss and staid a little
while; studied this evening.
Saturday Apr. 14
At home. Washed in the forenoon and ironed
in the after noon. Zach Freeman was hanging
around here all the after noon, and was "full"
directed his conversation especially to me and
gave me lots of advice.
Ed Everett spent the evening here.
11
Tues. Apr. 17 - 1883
Harry Renfrew and Ed Rugg spent the evening
with Sib and me in playing eucre: an enjoyable
occasion: Harry Kelley called at the door but
did not come in.
Wed. Apr. 18
Went to school of course - I went for a boat ride
with Harry Kelley on the river - the water is
very high at this time - we came near getting
capsized in a mixup with some willow bushes
in the current below the bridge.
After we got back to the house Harry came in
and we had a very pleasant time.
Sib was spending the evening at Averys.
It so happened that three different young men
called for me at the door - but was given to
understand by Mrs Underwood that I was
"otherwise engaged."
Thurs. Apr 19.
Went to school: called on Dr Everett and had
a tooth extracted - and went for a boat-
ride with Edson Kennedy.
12
Sat. Apr 21
I ciphered this fore noon: Sib staid down to her
grandfather's last night - getting back here
about one oclock P.M.
We went for a walk through Leavitt's pasture
to the fair ground, and on up through the
woods; we didn't know where we were coming
out, but found our selves at last almost
up to P.S. Chamberlin's place; we finally
got back home and went down to the village
where we ran across the Houghton girls
and Viola Greenleaf: "Lou" and Viola came
up to our room with us where we raised
"Old Nick," and afterward went down to the
village again. I went out to South Road
with Cora Kelley and her father: we told
stories and had a fine old time.
Sunday, Apr 22,
Cora and I got up in season for breakfast.
Harry came about ten o'clock, and we three stolled
off down to Silas Shumway's "just for fun."
This afternoon Harry drove over to Mr Fay's to
leave Cora and took me along too; on our way
back we called at A. P. Worthen's and Geo. Sampson's
13
After tea I came back to the village with him (Harry)
Had just a fine time.
This evening Sib and I went to prayer meeting.
Monday, Apr. 23,
Beginning of the seventh week of school: tonight after
school "let out" Sib and I walked almost home
with Mary Gaffield, then up onto mink-hill to
take a bird's-eye view of the country: Saw sights
and had an "interview": returned "across lots"
and called on Mertie Avery a few minutes on
the way. John called a few minutes at noon time.
I spent most of the evening writing, and Sib in
"ciphering".
Tuesday, Apr. 24
I went with Minnie Welton and Mamie Chalmers
to the High School Interview at the town hall
this evening - and came home with Annie Wise.
Had a pretty good time; about one hundred
people were present.
Thursday, Apr, 26.
I'm left all to myself: Shool [School] is half done and Sib
has gone home. Marion Kimball called on me.
also Harry Kelley called at the door "just a minute"
14
Friday, Apr 27.
Father came up after me to night: I stayed at
Merritt Davis while the horse was being shod.
Murray Davis and family came out to night.
John, Father and I have been "fiddling."
Friday, May 4
A. P. Worthen called for me after school and I went
home with him. Aunt Olive and Ed. came out.
Emma is not in very good health.
Saturday, May 5
I have been knitting and playing checkers with Ed
most of the day. Lizzie Merrill called this after-
noon: toward night I went down to Mr. Fay's
to see Cora.
Ed and I spent the evening at Lizzie Merrill's.
Frankie has been on the sick list; It rains
quite hard to night.
Sunday, May 6
Harry Kelley came out to Worthen's after me
this morning and I spent the day at his house.
Cora was home, and Ernest Alexander was there.
Ned and Alf Barbour came also: remember "Hop
15
Bitter's" Roy called during the after noon.
Came back to the village with Harry about nine
oclock in the evening - his nineteenth birth day.
Tuesday May 8,
Father and Mother came at noon-time, I staid home
from school rest of the day: after a while they had
some "trading" to do (got me some gloves and gingham
for a dress). I took Pearl and went for a drive up
on the fair ground.
Mrs Underwood gave me some young box elder trees
and they carried them down home.
Received a letter from Edd C. Goodwin.
This evening Olin Renfrew and Everett Brock came up.
Thurs. May 10 -
Mattie Everett went after may flowers with me - over
in Leavitt's pasture and up through the woods to Avery's,
but we only called at the door - then back home
through the pines: got quite a lot of flowers.
Harry Kelley made me a call - we spent the evening
sitting on the piazza, and had a pleasant time.
"Lightning candy" was a source of amusement.
16
Sunday May 13
Rosa and I went after may-flowers this after-
noon down by the pond and up in the woods
near Smith's pasture; got quite a lot of flowers.
John brought me back to Bradford in the evening.
Mon. May 14,
I went over to Shepherdson's and cared for Miss
Marcella until half-past two o'clock in the morning.
then came poking home alone in the rain, and
was'nt it dark though?
Tuesday, May 15,
Walked part way home with Nell Atwood after school,
then came home and tried to write a composition.
Lou and Laura Houghton called. Lilla Everette came
and staid until eight o'clock, and just at that time
Ed Rugg and Frank Ranney called: I have hardly
known Frank much of any since we played
together as tiny children.
Wednesday May 16
I read my composition entitled "Education" at school
this afternoon.
Called on my teacher Miss Powers tonight.
17
Thursday May 17 -
Gerty Morris and Emma Celley called after school.
Afterward Lilla Everett and I went for a long walk
toward Newbury: got a lot of partridge berries in
Leavitt's Pasture, getting home at eight oclock.
Annie Wise called.
Friday, May 18.
After school tonight who should appear to me but
Edd Goodwin who is on his way to Canada and
so made a stop-over. He hired Harry Stevens to go
and carry us to Fairlee.
Geo. Sampson and Arthur Moore here this evening.
John, George and I have been "fiddling," did not
go to bed until near midnight.
Saturday May 19
Father carried Edd to Haverhill depot this morning.
I have worked on my flower beds all day; Elmer
came along this after noon and helped me.
Mrs Staples and Mamie came this evening to get
Daisy and her kittens that we gave them.
Everett Brock is visiting at Renfrews so he and Olin
spent the evening here: A lot of fishermen are down
from South Road - and most of them are drunk.
18
Mon. May 21,
After school I walked with Mrs Woodward over to the
depot as she had an errand. Met Frank Ranney
and Ned Barbour and had a little talk with them.
Edd Goodwin spent the evening with me - being
on his return from Canada, and has gone
over to Warren Davis' to stay over night.
Weather rainy
Tuesday, May 22.
It has rained nearly all day. I remained home
from school during the after noon. Warren Davis
and Edd Goodwin made a short call on their
way to depot.
Haywood Minstrels have been playing on the
street: Harry Kelley came and asked me to go
to the "show," but I declined, so he spent the
evening with me.. we sat on the floor by the
open window and could hear the music at the
hall: he threatened to make a "beech nut" of
me in the corner:
Thursday, May 24.
After school I went over in the pasture and got
some flowers: Frank Ranny spent the evening with me.
19
Friday, May 25.
Father came after me to go home.
Mrs Renfrew spent the evening at our house. John
and I went "suckering" and got eight.
Monday, May 28 -
Its been a rainy day - and just before dark there
was an awful shower.
Frank Ranny spent the evening with me.
Tuesday May 29
We finished our Arithmetics this morning - three of us
Currier, Annie Wise and me.
Harry and Cora Kelley came up to night: I went
down to the village with them: Harry and Ernest
treated us on soda. Remember the "emetic."
Cora remained over night with me.
Wed. May 30.
Decoration Day. We got up some time before noon.
Sib came up. We have been down around the
village - over to H. M. Griffins, and to the green house,
Cora and I rode up to the cemetery with Nelson
Kelley - saw quite a good many people I know.
We came home on foot: had a "soldier (Frank Williams)
20
take tea with us: Harry came up too a little
later and they spent the evening with us.
Cora remained with me.
Monday June 4
Beginning of last week of school: after school I
went over to see Mrs Shepherdson in response
to a message from her: also called to do an
errand at Mr Prichard's, and down street to
do some trading at the stores.
Frank Ranny here this evening.
Friday, June 8 -
Last day of school. The examination gives me
a rating of 9 in reading, and 8 in history.
In spelling I missed but three words the whole
term: Attended the school exhibition at town
hall this evening: Frank Ranney came home
with me: had a fine time. got home at 11.
Sunday June 10
Got ready for church but it was so rainy
staid at home. Olin came over, and tonight
he took me to ride in the new carriage.
We got home about nine o'clock.
21
Monday, June 11.
Begun house cleaning; and am tired most to
death tonight. Milked three of the heifers.
Thursday June 14 -
Washed and cleaned in fore noon. In the after noon
Rosa and I went down street with Pert., came near
getting tipped over. Called at Smiths and took Carrie
for a ride away up above Ruggs.
Mrs Amos Clement died.
Friday, June 15 -
Worked on my flowers in the forenoon.
Father and Mother went to Bradford in the afternoon
and I went over to Mrs Renfrews.
Eliza Chamberlin and I started out fishing to
night and when we got over the other side
Olin and Kate joined us. we got thirty-seven
horned-pouts and some perch.
Alex Pierce committed suicide.
Sun. June 17
Mother, Rosa and I went to church this afternoon;
Mr Clark preached: Barzy and Elly Adams, Ave Freeman,
and Ed Everette have been here. Will and Gerty Sawyer
and another lady called.
22
Wed. June 20
Brock boys and M. Rugg here shearing sheep.
Harry Heath, Doctor Bixby, "Larn" Cook and a lot
of Corinthians here fishing fore noon and staid
most all day: and Frank C. Williams, Frank Gove
and Gene Maine in the after noon.
Ed Everett here tonight and staid with George.
Thurs. June. 21
Mother and I set out turnip and cabbage plants
in the garden in the fore noon; about noon time
I went down in the meadow and picked a
pint of strawberries: I read a while after noon.
Sib came down.
Tonight Mother, Rosa, Jim, Mrs Corliss and Lewis,
Sib and I went fishing: Sib and I went in the
little boat by our selves: We all got thirty-seven
pouts and some perch.
Sat. June 23
Jim, Rosa and I went fishing this morning
and got sixty nice perch.
John and I went to Bradford this after noon and
got the rest of my things at Underwoods.
Harry Kelly and Ed Rugg were here at the house
23
awhile to night and then went fishing.
Ed Everett was down and went fishing with George
and staid with him all night.
Orrin Lucas also came and staid all night.
Sun. June 24 -
Orrin went away this morning. Albert Fuller was here
a while. This after noon John and I went to South
Newbury to see the Crawford girls at Carletons'.
Ev. Brock, Byron Crawford and Olin were also there
We had a good time and got home about 8 o'clock.
It is awful hot.
Monday, June 25
Father gave me Rhoda's calf.
Tues. June 26.
Built a calf-pen for my Dora father gave me.
Mother helped me: she and I done some weeding
in the garden: I carried water to the flowers.
Helped the boys with the milking morning and
night. May Fuller came down - she has
been visiting Sib.
24
Wed. July 4. 1883
I worked around the house most all day.
Nothing at all for a celebration, except the
distant thunder of a cannon and two or
three thunder showers.
There was a big shower in the night from
about one o'clock until morning.
There is now plenty of water and it was
needed very much.
Olin and Elmer have been here.
I milked five cows morning and night.
Saturday, July 7 -
Been doing the usual Saturday's work.
Kate Clement's baby died: Mother went up to lay him
out and staid all night.
A big riot at Ely mines.
Sunday, July 8
We all went to the funeral which was at Amos
Clement's. Jim, Rosa and I went with Pearl: Father
and Mother in the other team. John as one of
the bearers. Mother, Rosa and I came home together
and on our way drove down to Winfield
Smalley's to see the strawberries.
25
Thursday, July 12.
This forenoon Jim, Rosa and I went raspberrying
down to the Morey pasture: got about five quarts.
I rowed from Morey pasture up to the point of
the knoll in seven minutes.
This after noon I cut out some undergarments
for myself.
Friday, July 13.
This morning Mother, Jim, Rosa and I went down
to the Morey pasture raspberrying, and were there
most all day: we got into a wood choppers shanty
and staid through an awful thunder shower.
We got wet as sop. George came down awhile
after dinner: we got about twenty quarts of berries
Saturday July 14.
I picked over the berries: - had teeth ache all day:
Mother and I went to Bradford toward night and
I went to Dr Stevens' and had two teeth pulled.
Saw Cora and went for a drive.
Wed. July 18
I did the ironing. Father came home from John
Paige's and brought Mattie Young: she came on the
train to Wentworth.
26
Wed. July 25.
Lewis Jenkins and girls came down to go fishing;
Matt and I went with them: we had lunch near
the spring at the Morey pasture.
Sunday July 29
Matt, Rosa and I drove to Fairlee with the inten-
tion of going to church, but as there was no
meeting - we went to Bradford and out on South
Road for a ride, and came home through Brush-
wood: we had a fine time; drove up to Kim Kelleys
and talked with Harry a few minutes, also went
out as far as Prescott Davis and saw Roy.
Olin came over this evening.
Monday, July 30
I washed this fore noon. Matt and I went fishing
and came home in the rain: went over to
the other place. etc.
Olin and Henry White went fishing to night and
when they came up stopped here awhile:
Remember the wild-goose chase, "happy porker"
and rhubarb skins.
"Where dem girls go hide?"
27
Saturday, Aug. 11
Mother and I have washed, ironed, baked and washed
floors etc.. John and Father went to Haverhill and
got Uncle James, Aunt Sarah Young and Aunt
Louise Estes: they arrived about four oclock.
I drove down to the Bridge to night and took Carrie
along with me.
Sunday Aug. 12.
We have all visited as fast as possible all
day: After Supper Uncle James, Aunt Sarah, Mother,
Rosa and I went for a boat ride to the foot of
the pond: had a fine time.
Friday, Aug. 24
I went down to camp this fore noon, also had a lot
of work to do: Father and Mother went to Bradford.
Sib came down this after noon and Barzy and
Ernest Adams, Mattie Granger, Susie Wiggins and
a Miss Bell came up across the pond.
We had some music and dancing and quite
a time all around.
I went up home with Sib and had quite a
nice time.
28
Saturday, Aug. 25
I have sewed as fast as possible all day.
Eliza Chamberlin and Mrs Corliss came down
to sew and staid until ten o'clock. Mrs Renfrew
was over a while
I helped John milk to night: he and Jim went
cooning. I sat up until twelve o'clock.
Monday, Aug. 27 -
Commenced work at Mc Indoes': got up at five
o'clock, and worked around the house until four
oclock in the after noon, then sewed.
Had thirteen in family to day as threshers are
here: worked sixteen hours and am tired tonight.
Monday Sept. 10
Got breakfast then commenced washing about seven
o'clock, had 119 pieces, including ten dresses and
five pairs of pants and other things accordingly.
Got done at half-past four, tired most to death.
Sewed this evening.
Wed. Sept. 12
Not feeling at all well: ironed in the fore noon; sewed
this afternoon. Mr Mc Indoe paid me $5.00. I came home.
29
Sunday Sept. 16 -
Sib was down awhile. Father, Rosa and I went to
meeting: Mr Frost preached.
After meeting Olin came over. Lewis Jenkins
came down and I sold Dora to him for
five dollars: she is twelve weeks old.
Thurs. Sept 20
Janine Kelly came and made a visit. I went
down to Mrs Libbeys this forenoon to get her
to cut my red cashmere waist - but she was not
at home so I cut and basted it myself this
after noon. Kate Clement was down here and
Barzy Adams came out.
Mrs Renfrew came over this evening.
Wednesday Sept. 26.
About eleven o'clock John, Jim and I started for the Fair
at Bradford: saw quite a lot of people I know, among
the rest were, Elroy, Harry, Geo Spear, Frank Ranney,
Wilbur Mc Allister, etc., had quite a time.
John and I went to a dance at Kemp's to night.
good company - good time: got home little after
two o'clock.
30
Monday, Oct. 1
I walked over to the Mc Indoes' this morning and
did their washing and washed five floors; got
done about two o'clock: received fifty cents for my
work - Eliza brought me home.
Made mother a pair of "unmentionables": cut
patch-work this evening.
Friday, Oct 12
My principal business to day has been sewing.
Helped Father trim onions this evening.
Remember catching the bat.
Tues. Oct 16
Father, Mother and Rosa started about eight
o'clock to drive to Wolfeboro.
Saturday Oct 20
I baked pies and bread, washed seven floors and
packed a tub of butter and did the usual
Saturday work.
31
Thursday Nov. 1
I have been sewing on my dress and Jennie Moore
who is boarding here, has been helping me.
The folks got home from Wolfeboro to night and
came with Black Maria instead of Pert.
Friday, Nov. 2
School in this district closed: Frank Williams
and Cora Kelley visited school and called here.
I went with Ed Freeman to the Social Assembly
at the Trotter House, Bradford - this evening.
Music, Celley's Orchestra. Had a splendid time,
and got home at 2-15 oclock.
Monday Nov. 12.
Commenced work for Mrs Hayes: cleaning house.
Saturday Nov. 17
Have cleaned house all day and am awful
tired to night.
Lewis Jenkins and wife visited here this
after noon. Charles Hayes brought me home this
evening. I received $2.50 for my weeks work.
32
Monday Nov. 19
Have not felt very well: went gunning a while
this after noon - grand luck - got a wood-pecker.
Sewed a little, this evening I peiced patch-work.
Friday Nov. 23
Sewed some on my dress.
Started about four o'clock P.M to walk up to
Amos Clements, going across lots up over the hill:
called at Lewis Jenkins on my way: arrived
at Clements about dark.
Sib and I went up to see Viola Greenleaf
this evening: she came back with us and
staid all night. Harry Kelley walked down
with me: Remember "cross-roads" - train -
umbrella, etc" and telling stories.
Saturday, Nov. 24.
Viola staid until after noon, then Sib and I
went with her up to the village; called at
Frary's; Lena was home and we had quite a
pleasant time. Sib and I got back to Clements
about dark. Harry Kelley and Edgar Smith
came down and spent the evening with us.
Remember Fred Mann's departure.
I weigh 165
33
Wed. Nov. 28 -
I finished my suit.
This evening I went with Ed Freeman to the grand
Dedication and Dance in Stevens' New Block, Bradford.
Music Celley's Orchestra: fifty couples present.
Had quite a fine time; got home at five
o'clock in the morning. [image] Harry.
H.P. Warren and Rosie A. Pierce
Freeman Robie and Mamie Grimes
{ Married.
Thursday Nov. 29
Thanksgiving day. I am half dead - the effects
of last night.
No one here - a quiet thanksgiving day for us.
A deer was seen over on the hill - boys
all crazy!
Friday Nov. 30
Spent the after noon with Carrie - she is home
for a week from Randolph. Kit Gilmore called
there.
Thursday Dec 6
Mrs Renfrew is sick: - Mr R came after me about
nine o'clock and I have been working for them. -
baking and ironing. Olin and I walked over home this
evening.
34
Saturday, Dec 8.
Had butchering around this morning. - sewed
most of the after noon: played checkers with
Frank Gove this evening.
Sunday - Dec 9
Went over home about eleven o'clock and decided
to go to Bradford to school: Mother and I went to
Bradford and engaged my room at Mrs Underwoods.
Packed my trunk to night for an early start
in the morning.
Tuesday - Dec 25 - 1883
Christmas. I have been baking and sewing.
Geo. Sampson and Geo. Lufkin have been here
this after noon - "April-fool."
Olin's twentieth and Hattie's twenty-first birth-day.
John carried me back to Underwoods this evening.
Monday Dec 31 - 1883.
I went down street with Annie after school: this evening
Elroy called; invited me to go to a dance and
gave me a silk handkerchief.
Sib and Viola called also.
35
Names of scholars who attended Bradford
Academy - Spring term 1883.
Avery - Mertie
Adams - Ida
Avery Frank F.
Baldwin - Lena
Brock - Moses L.
Bard -
Bradley - Henry H.
Colby - Nellie V.
Corliss - Mary
Celley - Emma J.
Cummings - Miss
Clarke - Maude
Crehore - Lottie
Clement - Sabra E.
Currier - Richard
Chamberlin - John
Davis - Mary S.
Doe - Fred
Doty - Vernon G
Davis - Ed
Earle - Willie
Farnham - Florence
Farnham - Willie
Fabyan - George
Fabyan - Guy
Fenning - Harry C.
Fulton - Chester
Gaffield - Abbie
Gaffield - Mary Luvia
Gaffield - George
Grow
Griffin - Frank
Gosha - Ned
Hill - Sadie
Jones - Marnie
Johnson - Lizzie
Jenkins - Maitland L.
Kennedy - Ida
Kennedy - Eva
Kimball - Marion
Kemp - Charles
Kennedy - Edson
Morris - Gertie
Merrill - Bessie A.
Moore - Bert
Manson - Frank
Mc Lane - James C.
Mc Duffee Frank
36
Winter term
Mc Duffee - Alice
Mc Duffee - Ernest B.
Peters - Annie
Pillsbury - Alice
Puffer William H.
Robie Sadie D.
Robie - Walter
Sibley - Alice
Sawyer - Mary
Sawyer - Carrie
Sawyer - Myrtie A.
Shaw Della
Stevens Carl
Shaw - George
Welton Minnie
Welton Mary A.
Wise Annie F.
Webster Earl N.
37
Thursday Jan 1 - 1884.
Place Bradford, Vt. Attended school: this evening Harry
Kelley took Ida Kennedy and myself to a dance at
David Derbys - (his fiftieth birth day).
Got home about five o'clock in the morning.
Remember "Elroy - fish - G.W.S - little indians."
Sun. Jan 6.
Attended services at Methodist church this morning.
A large number were baptized. - I read all after noon.
This evening Eliza Chamberlin, Annie Wise and I
have been to prayer meeting.
Thursday - Jan. 10
My eighteenth birth-day. Father and Mother have been
up here - gave me five dollars and I paid Mr. Cummings
four for tuition. We had no lessons at school after
noon - but select reading and general exercises.
Eliza, Annie and I attended class meeting: I arose
and publicly acknowledged God as my guide.
After meeting we played "letters".
38
Sat. Jan 12
Cold: I did some washing - cleaning my room etc.
and after noon went down to the village, and also
studied some.
This evening I have been copying diagrammed sen-
tences. Sib and the Gardner girls came up to-night
and wanted me to go sliding with them: Sib
got mad and used "extravagant language" because
I would'nt go.
Sun. Jan. 13.
Elroy came along and we drove down home
and spent the day. Mrs Renfrew was there awhile.
"Babies and puppies" - we returned just after
dark: "We girls" attended prayer meeting.
Tues. Jan 15
Saw Roy down to the village tonight as I came from
school - he has sold his colt.
We girls had a game of letters this evening - then went
to prayer meeting; after ward sat down stairs and
visited.
39
Wed. Jan 16
Awful cold: At school this after noon we "spelled down"
until recess, and after that had various original poems
with Mt. Moosilauke as the principal subject.
This evening "we three" went down to Abbie Bliss'; played
letters and told conundrums and had a very pleasant
time.
Thurs. Jan 17
I have had a bad head-ache most all day.
Annie and I went to class-meeting tonight and from
there I went to the lyceum at the academy - got home
about nine oclock and then studied a while.
Friday Jan 18
A pretty cold day. This evening Mr Underwood and I
went to a lecture on the Doctrines of the Church, given
by Mr Frost for the benefit of the young converts.
John came for me after the lecture and I came home
to Fairlee. Had a letter from Uncle Plum.
Sunday, Jan 20
John and I went to meeting at Fairlee. Mr Cooper
preached from Psalms 84th - 10th.
40
Wed. Jan. 23
Mr Cummings gave us a half-holiday this after
noon: its has been a beautiful day - warm and
sunny. I did some mending - then went down
to Mrs George's - Annie was there: Eliza George,
Annie and I went for a walk down to the
depot - saw Frank Ranny - after ward we went down
to the village. I spent the evening writing.
Thurs. Jan 24
I fixed my cloak over a bit: called on John E. Davis
folks after school.
It snowed hard all the after noon.
Did a little of every thing and not much of
any thing all the evening.
Friday, Jan 25
Took the 9-30 A.M. train for Montpelier - had quite
a nice ride as the day was fine: arrived at the
American House about one o'clock.
Amused myself by reading and watching the
people in the street during the after noon.
Studied my Physiology lesson and visited with
Mrs Clark, the landlady, this evening.
41
Sat. Jan 26.
Thermometer twenty-three below zero. I read most all
day. Uncle Plum took me to see Clark's Minstrel
entertainment - had a very nice time.
Sunday Jan 27
It been awfully cold: I sat in the parlor and read
or visited with whom-ever came in and seemed
inclined to chat: Was down to Uncle Plum's stable
a while, then he took me for a drive about town.
and spent the evening up stairs with me.
Monday Jan 28
I was down to the stable a while in the fore noon.
Uncle Plum devoted the after noon and evening to me.
We made a short tour about the State House.
Tues. Jan 29
I started for Bradford on the 8-20 train, arriving at
my destination about eleven o'clock. The Clark Minstrels
were fellow passengers.
Attended school in the after-noon and have been
getting up some thing for a lyceum paper to night.
42
Wed. Jan. 30
Had a spelling match at school this after noon: five of
us on one side and eight on the other remained
standing an hour and a half - and were dismissed.
Then we had "original poems" on "The Little Brook" and
compositions on the "Beauties of Nature."
This evening "we three girls" have been to a lecture
given by Rev. T. P. Frost, entitled "Brush Fence"; it was
splendid.
Thurs. Jan. 31.
Attended school in the fore noon: This after noon
Frank and Alice Mc Duffee and myself wrote the
lyceum paper at my room. Nell Atwood came
in a little while.
Attended lyceum this evening; Alice and I read
the paper: Quite a good time.
Sun. Feb. 3
Olin was over a while this morning.
John and I went to meeting at Fairlee: Mr Frost
preached: John brought me back to Bradford to night.
Eliza and I attended prayer meeting: the house
was full.
43
Mon. Feb. 4
Mother's fifty-first birth-day: Have attended school as usual.
Clara Duvol spent the evening with "the girls" and
I went in their room and had a game of "letters"
with them, and have done some writing.
Tuesday Feb. 5
It has been a stormy day. I attended school, wrote
a letter to Uncle Plum, and part of a composition.
Annie was here part of the evening and I played
on my harmonica.
Thurs. Feb 7.
It has been thawing and the streets are all slush.
Eliza George, Annie and I visited the printing
office to night after school.
Studied and did some writing this evening.
Fri. Feb. 8
Father and John came to Bradford with two horses
and a sled and I rode down home with them.
It stormed and was cold.
44
Sat. Feb. 9
Was busy this fore noon washing and mopping floors.
Carrie came to visit me: I peiced [pieced] four "butter-flies"
for my quilt: The puppies have taken no small
share of time and attention. Remember the "gym-
nasium"
A stormy day.
Sun. Feb. 10
Carrie went home about ten o'clock. I have been
reading Ten Nights in a Bar-room."
This after noon, John and I drove out to Pres. Worthen's,
called at Geo. Sampson's and got down to the
village about nine o'clock. - pretty cold.
Tues. Feb. 12
Company at school: after dismissal Eliza Chamberlin,
Eliza George, Annie Wise and I visited the paper-
mill, but as it was not in operation did not
stop. I commenced copying a composition then.
Ed Freeman came and asked me to go to Sabra's
surprise party - so I went: about thirty people
were present: got back about half-past-ten.
45
Wed. Feb. 13.
Had a spelling contest at school in which Fred Grow
came off victor: Then Mr Cummings explained the
new apparatus in Physics.
This evening we three girls attended a lecture by
Mr. Frost on Aristocrats of America: It was just
splendid. Remember the Goddess Flora, and Jonathan,
making "thunder-bolts."
He mentioned also "Young America" wanting an
ocean full of blood and a solar system full of
thunder.
Fri. Feb. 15
We girls have just been raising "Cain" all the
evening. Lizzie Smith called.
Sat. Feb. 16
School kept but I did not go in the fore-noon as
I had some work I wanted to get done.
Had no lessons in the after noon, but Mr Cum-
mings performed with the new apparatus.
Went down to Viola Greenleaf's and staid all night
with her.
46
Tuesday Feb. 19 - 1884
Attended school; - A cloudy day.
This evening I went with Elmer Freeman to an
oyster supper at Milo Jenkins'. We had music of
different kinds, quite a large gathering and a
very good time. Got home between two and three
o'clock - "Next time he will milk the cow."
Wed. Feb. 20
It rained hard most all day. Annie and I went
over to Eliza's school this forenoon - her last day.
Did not go to school this after noon: my eyes
pained me and I have been blue, blue, blue.
This evening Annie and I walked almost down
to Carter's then called at Bliss' for Eliza and
returned home: The wind blew a gale and.
it was awfully cold.
Thurs. Feb. 21.
To night after school "we girls" inspected the paper
mill. This evening we went to class-meeting, and
I had quite a lengthy conversation with Mr
Frost: On our way home we called at Mr
Flanders' - had singing etc.
47
Fri. Feb. 22. - 1884.
Last day of school - and examination day.
I ranked 8 per cent in grammar: 9 per. cent in
physiology and 10 per. cent in Arithmetic
This evening Eliza, Annie and myself went
skating down to Abbie Bliss' - then went into
the house and had a quiet chat until nearly
ten oclock: Met John and came down home.
Mon. Feb. 25
I washed and mopped floors this fore noon; sewed
this after noon; Kate Emerson came over after
school and went to lyceum with us this evening.
The topic for discussion was "Resolved that fashions
are a greater evil than tobacco." I was second on
the negative and so on the winning side.
Arthur is boarding here.
Tues. Feb. 26
Mother and I put a "comforter" into the frames and
commenced tacking it. John, Jim and I went to
a "Pea-nut party" at Ruggs' this evening: the
party was nothing uncommon. John and I drove
to the village and to Underwoods: we got home
about one o'clock.
48
Wed. Feb. 27 - 1884
We finished tying the "comforter" and then I
went to work on a bed valance.
Eliza was here a few minutes : - Mrs Renfrew
came with her and staid longer.
Spent the evening "gabbing" with Arthur.
"Sticks her finners in the cream"
Thurs. Feb. 28.
John went to Lyme and I went with him
as far as Rice's and remained there while
he was gone. - took my sewing with me.
Belle and I sang some: Had a very
enjoyable time. - got home before dark.
It has been a stormy day.
Fri. Feb. 29
Mother and I put my No 2 charm quilt into
the frames.
This evening John and I went to a dance
at Zera Mann's: I danced every figure: - had
a very good time: - got home at 1-30 o'clock.
49
Wed. Mar 5 1884
We finished quilting: Sib came down this after-
noon and remained all night.
Charles Hayes and Irving Smith spent the evening
here -
Sleepy.
Thursday Mar 6.
Sib and I got up some time before noon.
Eliza and Annie came down and we four
each dressed a puppy for a baby and took them
to visit Arthur's school.
This after noon I had an awful head ache and
went to bed awhile.
Father and Mother spent the evening at Clements'
and the young people of the neighborhood spent
the evening here.
Fri Mar 7
A stormy fore-noon. Mary and Johnie Paige came
down about noon from Clements: and Kate
came this after noon and remained during the
evening. - John also, called in.
School in this district taught by A. J. Williams
closed.
50
Sat. Mar 8 - 1884
I washed this fore noon: and was busy this
after noon at sewing: Jim and I had a wrestling
match this evening - and then I ironed and
sewed until twelve oclock.
It has snowed all day - about eight inches
having fallen.
Mon. Mar 10
Back to school for the spring term.
The teachers are Mr Cummings, Miss Morse
and Miss Nelson.
The scholars are as
Adams - Ida
1/2 Avery - Mertie L
Austin - Annis
Celley - Emma J.
Chase - Etta
Crehore - Lottie
Clark - Mary M.
Clark - Maude M.
1/2 Clement - Sabra E.
Doty Mamie G.
Davis Mary S.
Eastman, Mirna W.
follows.
1/2 Everett - Lillian I
Fulton Mary E.
1/2 Fuller - May B.
1/2 Gaffield - Abbie
1/2 Gaffield - Mary L
Hill - Sadie I
2/3 Jones - Mamie E.
Kennedy - Ida M.
Merrill Bessie A.
Mc Duffee - Mabel
1/2 Munn Jemmie
Robie - Ida M.
51
Shaw Delia
Sawyer, Myrtie
Sawyer, Carrie L.
Welton Mary A.
Welton, Carrie M.
2/3 George, Eliza
Haskins, Sadie L.
Bradley, Henry
Bickford, Charles H
1/2 Clark, Mason
1/2 Celley, George
Day - George
Davis, Fred L.
Earl, Willis E
1/2 Farnham, Willie
Fabyan, Guy
1/2 Grant, George
1/2 Grow, Fred
1/2 George, Wallace G.
1/3 Gove, Frank C.
Jenkins, George
Jeffords, Dana J.
Kennedy, Edson
Libbey
Mc Duffee, Frank
Mc Duffee, Ernest B.
Puffer, William H.
Palmer, Arthur B.
Prichard, Fred
Prichard, Warren
Robie, Walter
Rowell, John
1/2 Smith, Edgar F.
Underwood, George.
52
Tues. Mar 101 - 1884
John and Jim came up to see me.
I went down to the city after school and went to
ride with Roy.
This evening I went to a party at "Mose" Flanders'
with Harry Kelley and Viola Greenleaf: Got home
at one o'clock..
Thurs. Mar. 13
Sib was here awhile. Saw Jennie Moore down street
after school: I sat down stairs and visited with Mr
and Mrs Underwood quite a good share of the evening,
then studied and did quite a lot of examples.
Friday. Mar. 14
Sib was here quite a while: Eliza Chamberlin called
and I went down street with her: Met Annie and
Mamie Chamberlin; Went to ride with Roy after
the "colts"
Have been down stairs reading most of the evening.
53
Sat. Mar. 15, 1884
Have been doing a variety of things; corded up my bed;
washed the floor and had a general sticking up.
Went down town this after noon and got me some
new shoes, rubbers and some other articles.
This evening I finished reading "The Romneys of Ridgemount"
and did some mending.
Sunday, Mar. 16.
Went to meeting this morning: Wrote to mother. and
Em Davis.
Went for a ride with Elroy this afternoon and had
a nice time.
To night Harry Renfrew and Sib called - we went for
a short ride - and then to prayer meeting
Father and John were up.
"What are the bells ringing for?"
Tues. Mar. 18
After school I strolled about the village and went to
ride with Roy.
Went to prayer meeting and after ward amused my-
self with cutting off my front hair and trying
to curl it.
Father and mother were up to day.
54
Thurs. Mar 20, 1884
Went to a pound-party at Charles Wilson's at Goshen
with Elroy: Had a pretty good time, and the last
part in particular was boss.
Got home at four o'clock.
Sat. Mar 22.
It has been a beautiful day: I did some baking.
Leon Sawyer met with an accident and got his
leg broken. I read awhile this afternoon, then
went down to the village and went to Miss Much-
mores' with Viola: Elroy brought me back.
Busied my self doing examples this evening.
Sunday Mar 23
I was baptised at church with about a dozen others.
this morning.
The text for the sermon was II Corinthians, 5th chap.,
11 verse "Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we
persuade men"
Father and Mother came up to church: brought me
a beautiful terra-cotta silk sash from Uncle James and
Aunt Sarah: I have written a letter of thanks for
the same also a letter to Gertie Sawyer.
A rainy evening.
55
Monday Mar. 24 - 1884
Sib came up after school: we went to writing school
and staid until recess, then Harry Renfrew and
Will Mellen came home with us and staid until
one o'clock: they crept down the front stairs as easy
as possible but how every board would creak just
when it ought to be quiet.
Tues. Mar 25
I felt some what tired when I came home to night so
thought I'd rest on the lounge a bit: awoke to find
it dark and I was so very stupid I undressed and
got into bed: was just dosing off to sleep again when
Elroy was anounced: I hurriedly got into sufficiently
clothing to go down to the door - then he waited for
me to get properly dressed and I went to ride with
him - (all this happened before seven oclock or at
least before eight) We had a fine ride - had a narrow
escape from damages by a specimen of the genus
Got home about eleven o'clock.
Wed. Mar 26
It rained hard all the after noon, and as I was not
feeling well I did not go to school.
The first robin put in an appearance.
56
Thurs. Mar. 27 - 1884
A foul day: I had the honor of being "school-ma'am"
in the second Arithmetic class this after noon.
Did examples and studied this evening.
Wed. April 9 -
High school Interview at the town hall this evening; -
Palmer. "Will you be the female?" Earle.
Got home about ten oclock.
Friday Apr. 11
Fast Day. Father and Mother have been to a sugar-
party at Renfrews. We "young'uns" had sugar on snow,
and "fooled" away the evening at home. John Clement
and Elmer Freeman came in.
Sat. Apr. 12
Mrs Renfrew was in this morning - I was washing
John brought me back to Bradford this after noon. Met
Amos Clement in a store - he slipped a half-dollar
in my hand with the remark that I could "probably
find a use for it." and so I guess I can.
57
Sunday Apr. 13 - 1884.
Easter: A lovely day.
Mr Frost preached his farewell sermon from text II
Corinthians, 13 chap. 7 ver. "Now I pray to God that ye
do no evil." The house was crowded to overflowing.
I read this after noon: went to prayer-meeting this evening.
The vestry was crowded: Elroy came home with me: -
we had a nice little chat on the piazza until about
eleven o'clock.
Wed. Apr. 16
We had the usual Wednesday after noon exercises at school.
i.e. experiments, and notes on various authors.
To night after school Ida Robie, Etta Chase and I went
down to Viola Greenleaf's: got a ride with Harry in
Peckett's big team.
V- had a lot of company come and we departed quite
early - before nine o'clock:
I wrote a long letter to Mattie after my return.
Fri Apr. 18
Viola called this after noon: I did not go to school.
I went down home with father: called at Ruggs'.
Mother was there. I learned of Mrs Coombs how to
make paper flowers.
58
Sunday, Apr. 20 1884
I came to Bradford with John this morning as he was
going on to Corinth: arrived about half past nine o'clock.
Went to prayer meeting tonight. Harry came up to
the house with me and we enjoyed tete-a-tete
on the piazza.
Tuesday Apr. 22.
Attended school: Had a letter from Gertie.
To night Ive been about town with Sadie Derby,
Jennie Movre and Ida Kennedy.
Went to prayer meeting this evening.
Wed. Apr 23
No lessons this after noon, but the customary Wednesday
after noon exercises. I did not go down until three
oclock as I have not been feeling well.
Roy walked down street and up street with me
from school.
Thurs. Apr 24
Mary Gaffield, Mertie Avery and I played truant
and went down by the river; after school Carrie
Sawyer and Bessie Merrill joined us and we went
over on the saddle-back after May-flowers.
Ida Robie and Etta Chase called after I got back.
59
Friday, Apr 25 - 1884
I came from school at three o'clock. Mary and Mertie walked
down with me: - we called in drug store to see Charlie
Davis and got weighed - Mary 141 1/2 - Mertie 120 and
me 161 1/4
John Clement came after me to go down home: I
took the team and gave Mary Clark a short drive -
Sunday Apr 27 -
It has been a beautiful day: I have been to the
barns and inspected the calves, horses etc.
Olin came over. Rosa and I went after may-flowers
this after noon - we got a lot of beauties.
Barzy Adams and wife and Mrs Kemp drove out.
This evening Father played the violin and I sawed away
on the new "cello."
Wed. Apr 30
Did some baking after school - also went down to the store;
Miss Muchmore's; and over on the Saddle-back with
Myrtie Sawyer after may-flowers: then went up to
Mary Fulton's room: Ida Robie, Etta Chase and
Carrie Welton were there. Then I came back to
my room and went to studying.
Suicide of Will Sawyer.
60
Thurs. May 1 - 1884.
May-day. Mr Cummings gave us a half holiday
this after noon: I started out about one o'clock
and "picked up" Mary Welton, Mary Fulton and
Mary Clark and we took a jaunt over to the
Saddle-back in quest of may-flowers - after a
time Willie Farnham and Herbert Johnson
joined us and we went all over Mount Tug.
Got a splendid lot of flowers and got back to
my room at six oclock.
About eight Mary Gaffield and Mertie Avery came
creeping up the stairs to hang a May basket
on my door - but I "caught them" and joined
them in the game and stealthily rung up
several individuals: had a most enjoyable time.
Sunday May 4
Elroy called for me this morning and I went
out to his home with him: went to church
at West Bradford. Mr Bruce preached.
Roy and I have been driving around this evening.
Mon. May 5
I "hired out" and walked down home - John brought
me back - Folks said "no." Got the blues to night: been
walking with Ida and Etta.
61
Tues. May 6 - 1884
Arthur Palmer walked home from school with me
tonight: Sib called; I went to prayer meeting.
Sat. May 10
Made a flower bed and sowed some seed: made me
a chemise.
Annie and Eliza called. Myrtie Sawyer's 16th birth day.
I have been teasing the bass viol this evening.
Tues May 13
Mary Fulton and I "galloped" around town together
until nearly dark: then I came up and did some
stitching: Father and Jim were up town.
Been to prayer meeting this evening and Ellis
Shumway walked home with me.
Wed May 14
To night after school I went to ride with Elroy.
This evening quite a party of us met at Mrs
Hardy's to practice singing - from there Ida,
Carrie, Mabel and I went up to the skating rink.
got home about ten o'clock.
62
Sun. May 18 - 1884
Father and Mother went down to Uncle Frank's.
Barzy Adams and wife came out to our house.
John brought me back to Bradford - I read a while: -
went to prayer-meeting and afterward had quite
an interesting "mouse-hunt" in my room.
Mon. May 10
Mary Fulton called: I went to the singing drill
at Congregational vestry - Carroll and Mirna
Eastman brought me home with their team.
Fri. May 23 -
Got excused from school and got all ready to go
down home but no one came after me and I
was feeling sort of blue and forsaken when about
eight o'clock Elroy came and I went for a drive
with him: The first thunder shower of the season
came also and it was a "cracker"
We were obliged to seek the protection of the
horse-sheds until it was over.
63
Sat. May 24 -1884
Started afoot to go home, but had proceeded but
a short distance when I met John, so came home
with him: Got my nose thumped while Charles
Craig was loading meal at the grist-mill.
On arriving home found Mother quite sick.
Cut out my cambric dress this after noon and
"did up" my gingham gown this evening.
Thurs. May 29
Cold weather for the season.
Helped about the churning;- then did a general
sweeping - sewed on my dress this after noon and
mended this evening.
Mrs Baldwin called to day. I'm having some
trouble with rheumatism.
Friday May 30
I helped take care of the butter and cleaned my
room: Its awfully cold and there was a sprinkling
of snow in the morning.
64
Sunday June 1 - 1884
Fairlee: Olin called this morning; there Warren
Davis and the girls came and we had lots
of music.
Then Barzy Adams and wife, Ed Lucas & wife,
Mr Lucas and Fred Pierce came and then we
had more music
After they were all gone I read love stories and
wrote a letter.
Mon. June 2
Helped about the churning - then did a good sized
washing - and a little sewing late in the day.
Father and Mother went up to Clements.
Eliza, Annie and I went fishing in the evening
and after a while were joined by Olin Renfrew
and Henry Prescott.
Tues. June 3
Rosa and I went fishing quite early this morning
and staid until about one oclock; - had pretty
good luck. sewed a little this after noon.
Mother was called to the tea-party at Corliss' -
boy No 4.
65
Fri. June 6 - 1884
Helped with the churning: Mrs Freeman and Mrs
Renfrew have been in
John carried me to Bradford this after noon and
I remained to attend the graduating exercises at
Village Hall this evening.
The school closed with a graduating class of six
Mr Cummings' last term at Bradford.
Sat. June 7 -
Busied myself cleaning up my room and visiting
with Mrs Underwood until John came this
after noon and moved my goods home.
So my school days are over:
Father was taken sick: Lots of fishermen here
to night: I have been ironing.
We had a thunder shower accompanied by hail.
Wed. June 11
Worked around the house nearly all the fore noon.
did the ironing this after noon, and sewed a little.
Father has been delerious all day.
I have written three letters this evening.
66
By word of Kate M Clement's husband, John Clement, she
was 36 years old on April 16, 1884. Also, brother James L.
Davis recalls that he was told that Kate's mother died when Kate was born
Bradford Town Records give the date of her mother's death as April 16, 1848
R M. Ordway
Thurs. June 11 - 1884.
Rev. Mr Bruce called: The doctor has been here twice.
I have sewed a little.
Kate M. Clement died: aged thirty-five years. X
(See note at top of page.)
Fri. June 13.
Helped pack a tub of butter: did a big washing,
some baking and some other "extras" not worth
the mention, beside most of the regular house work.
Sat. June 14.
I "fixed" the butter, baked nine pies, two cakes, biscuit
and five loaves of bread: did quite an ironing
this afternoon: Have not been feeling at all well to day.
Mary and John T. Paige called this morning, and
Eliza, Annie, Mrs Pierce, Mrs Hammond and others
this after noon: Lots of fishermen here.
We were up all night with father; - Mr Renfrew
was here.
Sun. June 15
A beautiful day. Dr Blair has been here twice,
also Dr Hanson and Dr Jones.
Warren, France, Merritt and Murray beside others,
have been here. Warren and Merritt remained over
night: I wrote to Elroy this evening.
67
Wed. June 18 - 1884.
Orrin Brock here shearing sheep.
Warren Davis came down to night to take care
of father: I have felt miserable but managed to
bake cookies and fry doughnuts this fore noon and
drove down town on an errand for John this
after noon.
Sat. June 21
It has been an awful hot day.
I got greens for dinner. Baked eight pies and three
cakes and fried doughnuts this after noon.
Sun. June 29
Dressed a chicken and did house-work: had an
acute attack of "head-ache" or some thing for an excuse
to be absent when I saw a caller coming.
Father is not as well and Jim is sick.
Mr & Mrs Renfrew came over.
Fri. July 4.
Did a little washing: raked the door yard and cleaned
the shed: fooled with the horses; - did little baking
this fore-noon: This after noon I laid down - sewed a
bit; played harmonica to dogs, cats, chickens, ducks
and horses: made a bell-fool of Rover: had a ride on
Pearl's back and got thrown off and bumped.
68
Sun. July 6 - 1884
Read quite a lot - had a nap - and a horse-
back ride. Warren, Ada and Harry Davis, Mrs
Renfrew, Sabra Clement and Sarah Ballam have
been here.
Mon. July 7 -
Did a hard washing and washed the chairs.
Went horse-back up to see Eliza and Annie to night.
Olin has been here this evening.
Tues. July 8.
Built a duck-pond this after noon.
Mr Bruce called.
Wed. July 9 -
"Picked up" around; swept and washed the shed floors,
and so forth, this fore noon. laid down a little while -
sprinkled the clothes and set out some plants in
the garden this after noon.
The boys commenced haying.
Fri. July 11
On the lounge all day - could not stand or sit up.
Back-bone, ribs and shoulders awful sore; dipthetic
sore throat: liver and kidneys out of fix - and awful head-ache.
69
Sat. July 12 - 1884.
Just about the same as yesterday: tried to read but
couldn't.
Sun. July 13
Feeling better - sat up some.
Mon. July 14.
Not feeling as smart - have lain quiet most of the
time. Had a letter from Elroy.
Mrs Renfrew has been here all day.
Tues. July 15
No great change in my feelings. My neck is
awful sore - the result of fly-blisters.
My throat is plenty sore enough.
Wed. July 16
Still lying here and can't do much different.
Feel some what blue.
Thursday July 17
I got out into the kitchen to help mother with
the dishes: Father gave me a raking for playing
the lady" the past few days: and ordered me to
get myself to work: Well it rather hurt a bit.
Carrie came over a little while to night.
70
Fri. July 18 - 1884
Kate Emerson was here and did the washing.
Mrs Renfrew has been here most all day.
Dr. has been here: Burt Underwood called: - Sarah
Ballam came over.
It has been a pleasant day - I sewed quite a little,
read some and laid down part of the time.
I've been reflecting tonight - a mingling of sweetness
and sad ness.
Sat. July 19.
Rosa and I picked about four quarts of raspberries.
I got pretty tired and laid abed most of the
after noon.
Thurs. July 24.
John, Jim, Rosa and I went to Orford this evening
to the Hanoverian Family Concert Troupe entertainment.
Music consisted of cornet-band; Swiss-bells; guitars;
banjos; musical glasses, Xylophone, Saxophone, Songs,
etc. It was splendid.
Fri. July 25
Have felt lazy - sewed a very little: Went up
to Eliza Chamberlin's and bought a pair of ducks
for one dollar and a half.
71
Sunday July 27 - 1884
Have been reading and lying down most of the day.
Elmer and Sarah came along and I went with
them to prayer meeting.
Monday - July 28.
Murray has been fishing - and I changed work with
him: I helped him dress fish and he in turn,
helped me build a duck-pen.
Mr & Mrs Gilmore called. Lots of fishermen around.
Fri. Aug. 1
Finished my black dress. Went down town and got
Mr Bullock, who comes here to work.
Sarah Ballam came over - we went down on the
pond.
Sat. Aug 2.
Did a good big washing. Ed. Sawyer and wife -
Belle and Rosa Stevens, Grace, Emma and Dan Davis
came out to go fishing. I went with them this
afternoon: Am awfully tired to night.
Sun. Aug. 3
Jim, Rosa and I went to church. To night Elmer and
I started to go down town after Sarah: - met her on the way
and we three drove to Bradford to prayer meeting.
72
Mon. Aug. 11 - 1884
The Boston "Rusticators" pitched their tents at Camp
Gilmore bright and early this morning.
Wed. Aug. 13
Been busy - flying around more or less: went to
the depot and got Anna Smith this after noon.
This evening, Anna, Carrie, Sarah, Mamie Staples
and I went fishing with Olin.
Anna and Carrie staid all night with me.
Thurs. Aug. 14
Such a rainy morning! Carrie went home about
ten o'clock. Anna and I traded hats: went fishing
this after noon and evening - got eighty-seven "pouts."
Anna went over to Carries.
Friday Aug. 15
Sarah and I carried Anna to Orford, then went
down to see Chas. Granger - he was not at home
but we found him.
John came over on the hill and frightened us
by grabbing the horse by the bridle: only that
the dog was recognized I don't know what would
have happened.
73
Sun. Aug. 17 - 1884.
Elroy came and spent the day and night.
He and John, Rosa and I visited Camp Gilmore.
Mrs Renfrew, Olin, Sarah, Sib and Elmer have been
here. Elroy and I went for a ride.
My night-blooming cereus blossomed and the campers
and some others were here to witness the event.
Sunday. Aug. 24
Elmer came over this morning - then Sarah, Sabra,
Elmer and I went to Huckleberry Pond.
Barzy and Orrissa Adams and Lilla Lucas called.
Elmer, Sarah and I went to Bradford to prayer-
meeting tonight.
Tues. Aug. 26
I have been working around the house.
Elmer came over and I went along with him
when he went home - and stopped with Sarah.
This evening we three went down street got wet
in a shower and went into Belle Rice's and
dried our selves and had quite a nice visit.
74
Wed. Aug 27 - 1884
Commenced my pink chambray dress.
Went fishing with Sarah and the Staples girls this
evening - got twenty pouts for my share.
Wrote to Elroy.
Thurs. Aug. 28
Ben. G. Kelley and wife and Melissa Kelley have
been here visiting: "We women folks" went
fishing this after noon - made a call at Camp.
This evening Sarah, Elmer and I have been
down to the Pond to see the Camper's fire works.
Fri. Aug. 29.
A rainy day. I have been cleaning the school-
house; Elmer came down and helped me.
Uncle Frank, Aunt Ann and Joe Moulton arrived
with Pert tonight.
Elmer and Sarah came over but I had gone to bed.
Sat. Aug 30
Went to Cassville for Mary Welton this fore noon -
Called at Carries on our way home: got home about
four o'clock: Mary and I went over to the school-house
and looked around.
There was an awful thunder shower.
75
Sunday Aug. 31 - 1884
Uncle Frank is sick: Mary Welton is here today. we have
been reading - then went for a walk about the neighborhood.
Elmer and I went down town after Sarah the [then] we
went to prayer-meeting to Bradford: got home at eleven o'clock.
Mon. Sept. 1 -
School commenced in this district with Mary A. Welton
as teacher: she has gone to Renfrews to board.
I have been washing: Got a lecture from the paternal
parent:
Houghton girls and Viola down to the pond and
I went with them for a boat ride, as did John and
Olin this evening.
Sarah, Mary and Elmer came over.
Thurs. Sept 4
Ive been working; especially in the fore noon. Uncle Plum
came on fore noon train: John went after him and
I carried him back this after noon with Pert.
Took John Jenks for a ride with my fast horse.
Went over to see Sarah and Mary Addie a little
while. Joe Moulton ran away - and after a
great time hunting for him John found the
culprit at Warren's store.
76
Sunday Sept 14 - 1884
Elmer called. I took a horse back ride up to see
Mrs Corliss - also called at Mrs Freeman's.
Elmer and I have been to prayer-meeting
tonight with the new white horse.
Uncle Frank is some better.
Mon. Sept. 15
Uncle Frank's folks started for Wolfeboro this morning.
I ironed some laces - sewed some on my pink
gown - went down on the pond; in the woods
and got some bitter-sweet berries and other treasures.
Composed eight verses of exquisite poetry on the
Sons of Temperance for the especial benefit of Elmer.
Tues. Sept 16
Pearl and I went for an outing - called to see Sarah
and was much surprised at the state of affairs.
Went again in the evening and Sarah and I went
up to Mrs Freemans.
Mrs R. is making quite a row over us young
folks and about things that don't concern her.
Mary has proved to be a tatler.
77
Thurs. Sept. 18 - 1884
Sarah got turned out of Renfrews' house and came
over here: about eleven o'clock I went with her and
we took her trunk to Mrs Freemans.
She and Mary and I went to Bradford and visited
school a while: went to Miss Muchmores' and got
my polonaise: This evning [evening] I went to see Sarah at
Mrs Freeman's - and she came back with me and
staid all night.
Sunday Sept 21
Sarah and Elmer came over this morning and I
went back with them and staid until church
time: then we went to Fairlee.
To night we three have been out for a boat ride
Thurs. Sept 25
Sarah and I went to the Bradford Fair with Father.
Harry and Elroy took us to dinner: Elroy took us to
ride - and Harry "bowed" us around the village -
down to Hery Ollivers to call and left us us [sic] Mrs
Underwoods' where we staid over night.
We read some literature that was loaned us by
some bad boys: "That friend of mine."
78
Fri Sept 26 - 1884
This morning Sarah and I went to the Fair grounds
about half-past nine o'clock.
Went to ride with Elmer and he took us to dinner;
After a while Roy got his team and took me and
Sarah and Elmer went together; we four and no
more - we found a shady place and had a
fine time chatting and talking nonsense.
Later we went for a ride with Charles Granger.
he left us at Mrs Underwoods.
Harry Kelley carried us home to Fairlee.
A beautiful evening.
Mon. Sept. 29
I did a big washing: Mother and I together fixed
over half a bushel of apples to day: and to night
I husked a bushel of corn.
Tues. Sept 30
Been up stairs sorting rags - and made quite a
days work of it, and am tired tonight.
79
Sat. Oct 4 - 1884
We have been getting ready for company. I went to
the depot for Uncle Plum but got left.
This after noon Uncle James, Aunt Sarah and Mattie
came: S & M. got off at Haverhill and Uncle J. went
to Wells River and down on evening train.
Elmer came in this evening.
Sun. Oct 5
Helped about the morning work, then Matt and I
visited and read awhile.
Later John, Matt, Elmer and I went for a boat ride
and went up to see the falls and from there to the
foot of the pond.
Mon. Oct 6
Uncle and Aunt and Mattie left here for Montpelier this
morning: I stitched the ruffle on my pink skirt, ironed
some collars and fine clothes, and sewed on a
night-gown. A rainy day.
Thurs. Oct 9
This morning I sat down to my mending: Henry
De Goosh came for a maid - so I went with him,
got to my destination about three o'clock. washed the supper
dishes - and have been knitting this evening.
80
Fri Oct 10 - 1884.
Quite a frost last night. I have been very busy
sweeping: Got around to sit down about four
o'clock: was awfully tired. Baked biscuit for supper.
Mended stockings this evening.
Sat. Oct. 11
Baked five loaves of bread, six pies and mopped
four floors beside the regular work.
Mended this evening.
Sun. Oct 12
Made potato yeast: got the house work done about
noon: and then got time to write a letter to
Mother, and read a little while.
Then got supper and did up the work and read
a little more this evening: there has been a heavy
thunder shower.
"Win" went down to school.
My weight is 160 1/2
Mon. Oct 13
I washed and did most of the other work beside.
Am awful tired. There was a heavy wind and
rain today.
81
Tues. Oct 14 - 1884
Awful cold. I washed floors this fore noon; baked six
pies and biscuit and did all the other work; and sprinkled
the clothes and sponged up bread to night. and then
mended my stockings. Perhaps I'm not tired!
I've got cold and don't feel a little bit good.
Wed. Oct 15
Baked four loaves of bread - and did the ironing.
This evening have cored about two bushels of apples
to dry.
Oh I am so tired!
Thurs. Oct 16
Had a snow storm this morning: I worked over some
butter and scoured a brass kettle, and this after
noon swept nine rooms: got around to sit down
about four o'clock; did some mending: this evening
have cored a bushel of apples and did more
mending: Company here.
Fri. Oct 17
Mr & Mrs De Goosh spent the greater part of the day at
Corinth; I baked seven pies and biscuit; swept eight
rooms; mopped the shed floor: did some mending
Arthur came from school amd brought me two letters.
82
Sat. Oct 18 - 1884
Threshers have worked here - Wilbur Moore at the head.
I made seven loaves of bread and six mince pies and
doughnuts: mopped floors and managed to be busy
with what general house work I had to do beside.
Helped fix apples again this evening.
For weather we had a variety - rain, hail,
snow, sun-shine and shadow.
Sun. Oct. 19
Did up the morning work; got dinner for ten:
Mr & Mrs Bailey and Mr & Mrs Hastings were here,
I wrote a letter to mother.
This evening I have helped Arthur diagram some
sentences in grammar.
Mon. Oct 20
Got up early and did a big washing. Mr & Mrs
spent the after noon at Corinth.
I've done some mending this evening.
Tues. Oct 21
Washed four floors and piazza this fore noon; Dr Corwin
here to dinner: Made six squash and a pork-pie and
swept the chambers: got the work done for the day and
fixed apples until bed time.
83
Wed. Oct 22 - 1884
Had my first experience salting butter by hand.
Made four loaves of bread.
Rose and Ethel went visiting and the men went to
cider-mill so I've had every thing my own way.
I ironed the colored and part of the white clothes
this afternoon.
Mended stockings this evening.
Thurs. Oct. 23
Worked over and salted the butter and cleaned the
pantry shelves this fore noon and finished the ironing
This after noon I have been sewing on a black skirt
for Mrs D. Fixed apples again this evening.
Friday Oct 24 -
Baked six pies - washed shelves in another pantry
and left everything sleek and clean: graduated.
Mr D. carried me down to Bradford and Mother
met me there.
Found Mary boarding at the house. Olin came
over and we have been singing.
84
Sat. Oct 25 - 1884
I did some washing - Then Mother and I
have been dyeing various articles.
Sun. Oct. 26.
Mrs Renfrew called. Elroy came down with
the bay colts and staid until most night.
Mon. Oct 27 -
John and I started for Wolfeboro at a quarter
past seven A.M. Stopped for dinner at Mr Weeks
about four miles below Wentworth.
About five o'clock we put up for the night at
Chas. Pipers.
Tues. Oct 28
Left Piper's about eight o'clock, and when we
put up next we were on Pine Hill at Anna
Bennetts: staid there until most dark and drove
by moonlight down to Uncle Franks.
85
Wed. Oct. 29 - 1884.
This after noon Matt and I went with Pert and
Uncle Frank and John with Pearl to the Bridge,
and to Pine Ridge: Met Em Davis for the first
time.
Thurs. Oct 30
After-noon and evening spent with Lizzie Moulton
Fri. Oct 31
John, Matt and myself have been up to the Bridge;
Took dinner at Frank and Sophie Young's:
Called at Bertha Edgerly's and, Alice Abbott's and
Lorette Hasty's.
Sat. Nov. 1
This after noon John, Matt and I spent at Alice
Abbott's. This evening we have been having a
fine time down on the street.
John and Em; Will Sanders and Matt; and Fred
Cate and myself.
I weighed to day 172 1/2; Matt 152 1/2. Alice 159.
86
Sunday Nov. 2. 1884
A rainy day:
Matt. and I have been gadding about.
Will Sanders and Fred Cate took us for a ride -
"Just so" -- Addie Avery, Helen and Fred
Cate called: - This evening George Prescott and
Em Davis made a "door yard" call.
Thurs. Nov. 6
This morning John and I left Uncle Frank's before
day light for the home ward trip.
Went to Bennett's and got the colt Prince Wentworth:
Put up for dinner at the black-smith's at Melvin
Village - and "baited" the horses at Mr Bean's at
Moultonboro; reached Piper's just before dark and
staid over night.
We have had a hard day to travel: it has
been awful cold and windy: the ground is
frozen hard and rough.
Fri. Nov. 7
Left Piper's in pretty good season; reached
Plymouth at 9-30: Put up for dinner at A.T. Weeks'
in Rumney: and at 7-30 o'clock P.M. arrived home.
Prince followed the team all day without leading.
87
Sat. Nov 8 1884.
Blacked the stove and cleaned the paint in the
sitting room: Mended this evening.
Tuesday, Nov. 11
I varnished some furniture up stairs and have
been knitting between times.
Uncle Frank Davis and Dan have been here.
Elmer and Olin spent the evening here: I have
been mending.
Wed. Nov. 12
Cleaned the kitchen, scrubbed and scoured: mopped
four floors and baked bread.
Mother and Mrs Renfrew have been helping to clean
the church.
I did some more mending this evening.
Sat. Nov. 15
Cleaned my chamber and helped clean the other
two; and did some washing.
Worked hard all day.
This evening I hemmed a table cover.
88
Sun. Nov. 16 - 1884
Helped about the house work - curried the horses;
wrote three letters.
It has been a beautiful day.
My wrists and hands are very lame with
rheumatism.
Sat. Nov. 22.
Sewed quite industriously today: John and I
spent the evening at Mr Aldrich's: the first time
I have ever spoken to any of the family: had
a pleasant time, with music, etc: got home
at eleven o'clock.
Thurs. Nov. 27 -
Thanksgiving Day: Elroy spent the day and night
with us: We had the usual Thanksgiving dinner
All were at home.
It took the united effort of Elroy and myself
to keep the parlor fire burning; but about
twelve we gave it up and went to bed.
Mon. Dec 1.
School in this district commenced with Mary
Welton for teacher: she is boarding here.
89
Wed. Dec 3rd 1884.
John and myself went to a dance at Warren Alber's:
Music by John and Barzy: Crowd enough and a pretty
good time. Got home at two o'clock.
Fri Dec 5 - 1884
Mother was taken sick with erysipelas in the face.
I baked five pies and did the rest of the work.
Mr Welton was here this evening: I have been knitting.
Sat Dec. 6 -
I have been working around the house all day.
Did some washing; baked five loaves of bread; five
mince pies, beans and biscuit: fixed apples for boiled
cider sauce. This evening it rains: Elmer has been
in; I have been knitting.
Mother remains about the same as yesterday.
Sunday Dec 7
I have been at work around the house most of the day.
Harry Kelly, Ellis Shumway and Olin have been here.
Cloudy and muddy with some rain
Wed. Dec 10
Dr Blair here to see Mother. Amos Clement, Elmer, Harry
and Olin called this evening.
90
Sat. Dec 13. 1884.
Baked pudding and nine pies: mopped the floors;
churned, etc. and it was near midnight before
I got my work all done for the day.
Sun. Dec 28
I have had a head-ache all day and feel blue and
stupid. Uncle Frank Davis died very suddenly this
morning: Murray has been out here.
Wed. Dec 31 - 1884.
Uncle Frank was buried today: Father, Mother, John
and I have been to the funeral.
Since we returned home I have been lying
down as I have not been feeling well.
Thurs. Jan 1 - 1885.
Fairlee: No sleighing at this time.
My weight is 170 pounds.
I ironed collars and laces - sewed on my
polonaise, beaded lace etc.
Mon. Jan 5
I have washed: made some pills for "Dr" Freeman.
He has been here this evening; - story telling seemed
to be infectious.
91
Thurs. Jan 8 - 1885
I gave the house-plants a bath.
Elroy came this fore noon and I went out to his
home with him this after noon.
Fri. Jan 9 -
Knitted lace this fore-noon. This after noon Elroy
and I went over to "Scrabble Hollow" to visit Jennie
Moore's school: from there to her home and spent
the evening: Had a few games of cards.
Sat. Jan. 10 - 1885
My nineteenth birth day. Elroy carried me up to
Emma Worthen's this fore-noon. I have been "tending"
the baby and knitting for Emma:
We sat up until eleven o'clock visiting.
Sun. Jan. 11
Read most all the fore-noon: Went to meeting
with Eddie and Mrs Worthen.
Mon. Jan. 12
Been helping Emma to day. Elroy came up this
evening - several of us played Jack-straws.
92
Wed. Jan. 14 - 1885
"Prescott and Maria" Davis have been away visiting,
so Elroy and I were left to keep house: we
succeeded very well indeed.
This evening Roy and I spent the evening at Wm.
Martin's: played "Go Bang" - had music and a gen-
eral good time.
Frank Putnam and Josie Crawford were married.
Fri. Jan. 16
Roy brought me home this fore noon.
Wed. Jan 28.
A cold, "snowy and blowy" day: there is about eight
inches of snow - and it is piled in drifts.
I have been sewing this after noon: Doctor
Freeman was here and I had a wrestling-match
with him.
Been knitting this evening.
Tues. Feb. 3
I have been strugling with art, in trying
to decorate my polonaise with narrow braid.
This evening we organized a home singing school.
93
Wed. Feb. 4 - 1885.
Dr Freeman called. Mary Welton gave up the school.
I went over to Smiths' and got a certificate to
teach: Visited Carrie's school.
John F. Corliss and two eldest sons and Doctor
Freeman spent the evening: I played "go bang"
with the doctor.
Thursday Feb. 5
My first day as a "country school marm"
Wages $2.75 per week; five scholars.
I've got an awful sore throat - and went to
bed almost as soon as I got home.
Sat. Feb. 14
I kept school: did a washing to night.
Mrs Susan Kelly Carter Archer swooped down on
us.
Fri Feb. 20
John and I went to the "Junket" at E.O. Lucas'.
Good quiet crowd and a good time.
Home at 2-30 o'clock.
Sat. Feb. 21
Kept school. John and Tenny Clement, Jim Cunningham and
Elmer here this evening.
94
Sun. Feb. 22 - 1885
Geo. Lufkin, Doctor Freeman, Barza Adams and
Bie Hutton make up the list of callers.
Sat. Feb. 28
"Sukey" Archer took her departure.
John and I spent the evening at C.S. Baldwin's
Selah and Kate George were also there: Got home
about eleven o'clock. A beautiful moon-light night.
Tues. Mar. 3 -
Town meeting day. Elmer visited school this after-
noon. John and I went to the ball at "Amsterdam"
in Potato Hall: Good company - good time.
I danced every figure: got home at 1-20 oclock.
Wed. Mar. 4
Grover Cleveland inaugurated president of U.S.
Father and Myron Smith visited school this after-
noon. Elmer spent the evening here.
Fri. Mar 6.
My school closed: Elmer and Frank Gove
for visitors.
Olin spent the evening here: I have been knitting
lace.
95
Sunday Mar. 8 - 1885
Composed "poetry" wrote letter to Nettie White and
some thing of a saucy one to my cousin Elroy.
"Dr" Freeman spent the evening here.
Sunday, Mar. 15
It has snowed fast nearly all day: about six
inches have fallen - making in all about two
and a half feet. I wrote a letter to Box 186 - Millers'
Falls - in answer to an "ad" in the Mirror.
Elmer called this evening.
Mon. Mar. 16
Did a little washing - mopped my bed-room floor - had
a general "picking up".
Went to depot and got Hattie Crawford this afternoon.
Tues. Mar 17 -
Hattie and I went to Bradford: called on Mrs
Underwood: John Jenks spent the evening here
and entertained with songs etc.
Wed. Mar 18.
Cut out a big apron; sewed a little; wrote some
[Image]ings to Carrie: carried Hattie to the depot.
Elmer spent the evening here.
96
Thurs. Mar 19 - 1885
Been sewing by hand: commenced a night-gown.
Had a letter from Geo. O. Palmer. M- F.- Mass.
John, Sabra and Tenny Clement spent the evening
here; - Sabra remained all night.
Fri Mar. 20 -
Sib went home about nine; I have been sewing
busily during the day.
John and I went to the ball at Amsterdam,
at Potato Hall: Ed Dayton furnished music.
Good time; home about one o'clock.
Tues. Mar 24
Did some sewing - drove down town in the
after noon. John and I went to the Fifteenth
Anniversary party at A.W. Paines this evening:
They had a house-full and were successfully surprised.
Sat. Mar. 28
I swept, dusted and scrubbed most all day:
The-singers met here to night. A good lively time.
97
Sunday Mar 29 - 1885
Wrote three letters: Eliza Chamberlin and Elmer
called. Father, Mother and I spent the evening at
Mrs Freeman's.
Wed. Apr. 1 -
Went to work for Mrs S.B. Hayes.
Thurs. Apr 2.
Did house work and ironing this fore noon and sewed
this after noon: Mrs Mc Indoe and Eliza called.
Knitted lace in the evening.
Sunday Apr 5.
Wrote G.O.P. a letter: Hired man came to work:
John called at the door.
Charles and I made molasses candy this evening.
Sun. Apr. 19
First robin appeared: It has been a beautiful day -
I got my work done about nine o'clock: Father
came over after me: found Murray at the house
when I got home. Mr. Hayes came after me
about two o'clock.
I wrote letters this evening.
98
Mon. Apr. 20 - 1885
Did a big washing: worked around most all
day. This evening I played dominoes with
Irving Morey.
Tues. Apr. 28 -
Finished work for Mrs Hayes:
Sat. May 2 -
I have been very busy sewing: finished a white
waist for my self.
John and I went to the "Dedication Ball" at
the new Granger Hall: Large company and a very
good time.
Sunday May 3 -
Have been lying down most of the day.
Murray has been here - several others called.
Chas. Hayes came after me to go back to work.
Had a slight accident caused by the horse
getting frightened at the cars.
Tues. May 5
Been busy sweeping, dusting, baking - ironing and
house work in general.
Kit Gilmore called.
99
Sat. May 9 - 1885
I mopped floors - up stairs and down stairs.
Mr Wilcox and Hattie made a short visit: Kit Gilmore
called: John and Fred Richardson made a door yard
call: I did some sewing for Mrs Hayes and some
for my self. Olin and Mary married.
Sun. May 10
Got the house work done about nine o'clock:
Father came after me and I went over home.
Geo. Lufkin was there.
Walked back to Mr Hayes and got some may-
flowers on the way.
Got a letter from Geo Palmer and this evening
have written a very long one in reply.
Mon. May 11
Did a big washing and mopped floors.
Irving Morey was discharged and Geo Lufkin
came to work:
I mended my self a dress and knitted lace
this evening.
100
Thurs. May 14 - 1885
Cleaned Mrs Hayes' sleeping-room - made
button holes in a dress waist for myself.
Mrs Newcomb called.
Fri. May. 15
Cleaned front entry and closet: did some
machine stitching - went for a walk down
to the river.
Sun. May 17
Got my work done about nine o'clock A.M.
Walked over home and got a beautiful lot
of May-flowers on the way.
Mr & Mrs William Moore and Flossie and Albert
Fuller and May and Elroy have been at the
house: Elroy took me for a little ride and
returned me to Hayes'.
Tues. May 19 -
I did the ironing - a very warm day.
Whip-poor-wills, golden robins and numerous
other birds have arrived.
101
Wed May 20 - 1885
Helped about the baking - picked up the rubbish from
the front yard and did various little odd jobs.
Put the bows on my white dress:
Went with John to a dance at Granger Hall.
Warren Davis and girls and Dayton furnished the
music: A first-rate good company and just a
boss time. Got home at one oclock.
Thurs. May 21 -
Transplanted some flowers: swept and regulated
the chambers: made over a pair of hose; - called
on the Gilmores, - and after tea raked the
front yard: Received a letter from Em Davis.
Have had a terrible head ache.
Sat. May 23 -
A rainy morning: The crab-apple and bird-cherry
trees are in bloom and the grass waves in
every passing breeze: tis a most delightful season.
I have been busy as usual on Saturday.
Wed May 27
Busy in many ways about the house; this
afternoon I walked down town and back.
102
Thurs. May 28 - 1885
Sowed seeds in the garden; washed the out-side of
the windows; swept the chambers.
Went to Bradford with Mother this after noon,
and left my silk and velvet and cambric dresses
at Miss Muchmore's to be cut.
Called at Mr & Mrs Underwood's: Had lots of fun
with Charlie Davis.
Sat May 30
Busy doing the usual Saturday work: but had
palpitation of the heart all day.
Cut over some stockings; sewed some lace on
an undergarment; raked the door yard; read
a little while.
Geo Lufkin went away.
Sun. May 31
Chas. Hayes carried me over home after I got
the morning work done. Found a letter there
from Geo. O. Palmer. I read, took a nap and
made rather an idle day of it.
John brought me back to Hayes' to night.
Had palpitation of the heart all day and
felt miserable.
103
Mon. June 8 - 1885
I washed and mopped floors; sewed for my self in
the after noon; Mrs Hayes is in miserable health and
is so very nervous and wretched.
Hired man No 4 came - this time, Harry Mitchell.
Father and Mother called with some canaries.
Thurs. June 11
Been busy in various ways; went down to
Gilmores' on an errand; did some machine
stitching for Mrs Hayes, and sewed some for
myself.
Mother came and remained here while Father
was gone down street.
Grass-hoppers by the million have taken posession
of the fences and available vegetation.
Friday June 12
John and I went to a dance at Granger Hall.
Music as follows Warren and Josie Davis, first
and second violin; Ed Dayton, claronet and
John Davis violoncello: Fine time.
104
Sun. June 14 - 1885
Elroy called at Hayes' for me and I went over
home with him: Warren, Floss. Lottie and
Dan Davis were there.
Several of the boys from the foot of the pond
were there:
Elroy and I had a delightful drive down
around Ely and about town and then he
left me at Mr Hayes'.
Mon. June 15.
A very warm day. I did a big washing.
Norman Bugbee and daughter, Mrs Williams,
came on afternoon train.
Wed. June 17 -
Finished work for Mrs Hayes and came home.
Thurs. June 18.
Went over to Mr Aldrich's and did some cooking
and various things to help as Mrs A__ is
sick in bed.
105
Sat. June 20 - 1885
Made button holes and sewed button on Mother's
cambric polonaise: Fishermen are too numerous
to suit me tonight.
Mon. June 22
Baked four loaves of bread: did some cleaning
in the back pantry: hemmed six breadths of ruffling
for Rosa's white dress:
There are fishermen around and Mrs Renfrew
and Elmer Freeman called tonight.
Tues. June 23
Sewed for Rosa in the fore noon: This after noon
Carrie Smith went with me to Bradford; Called
at the Trotter House to visit Hattie Crawford.
Wed. June 24.
Sewed for Mother all day. John carried Rosa and
me down to Murray Davis' tonight.
I sold my ring to Geo. Lufkin for a dollar
and a quarter. Letter from Geo. Palmer.
106
Thurs. June 25 - 1885.
"Commencement" at Dartmouth College.
Ed Sawyer furnished a two-horse team and
took a party of nine to Hanover, as follows:-
Dan and Emma Davis; Kate Ladd; Elie Smith;
Dick Hannaford; Lottie Cutting; Rosa and my-
self: Arrived at Hanover at 10-30 o'clock; had a
delightful time: on our return we spent the
evening at Albert Sawyers: Gertie favored us
with songs etc. and were tired when we finally
got back to Murray's.
Wed. July 1 - 1885
Arose in season to hear the "early birds" sing
and Jim took the team and drove to Marshall
Ruggs with Carrie and me to pick strawberries.
I picked twenty-two quarts and Carrie twenty.
Got home about eleven oclock: sewed a little:
took a nap - as my back is "almost broken."
Thurs. July 2 -
Father and Mother went to Bradford.
I did some sewing and entertained Amos
Clement.
107
Fri. July 3 - 1885
I sewed this fore noon and this after noon Carrie
and I went up to Mr Ruggs to pick berries:
A thunder shower somewhat impeded our progress
in picking for a time but we succeeded in
picking twenty-five quarts each.
Ed Rugg drove home with us in the evening.
Sat. July 4 - 1885
A very quiet morning but the day found between
fifty and sixty persons here at the head
of the pond in search of boats.
Chester and Mary Fulton; Albert and May Fuller
among the number. and it has been a busy
day indeed. I had my first boat-ride of the
season - went to the foot of the pond.
I gladly seek rest to night.
Mon. July 6 -
Carrie and I made an early pilgrimage to the
strawbery field - picked twelve quarts and got
home at ten oclock A.M: I basted a ruffle
on my cambric skirt: then we rode up with
Father on his way to Bradford and picked twenty-
three quarts more of strawberries. Came home
completely tired out and retired my room.
108
Tues. July 7 - 1885
Mrs Renfrew and Mary came over and I went
fishing with them; had all the luck there
was, but that was not worth mentioning.
Finished my cambric skirt.
We have had a soaking rain all the evening:
Elmer called.
Fri. July 10
Sick abed all day with dipthetic sore throat:
could not sit up a minute or eat any thing.
Head and back ache terribly.
Mon. July 13
Am gaining slowly - able to sew quite a bit.
Wrote to Elroy - giving him my full permission
to "milk the heifer" or do whatever he likes:
Sun. July 19
Father, Rosa and I went to meeting.
I have also read a while in the Waverly Mag;
went for a boat ride; got some blue-bells
and yellow daisies. Wrote to Em Davis.
Elmer called.
109
Tues. July 21 - 1885
Elmer "assisted" me with the ironing.
Went fishing with H. L. Rice and wife and
father and mother this afternoon.
I got about a dozen "pouts" and sold some
to Jim Mc Lane and Sherman Rogers: had
considerable fun about it.
Quite a crowd of fishermen around all day.
Mrs Renfrew was here this evening.
Sat. July 25.
Carrie and I anticipated lots of fun with the
minister, but the realization was not much.
However we succeeded in finding out what time
it was, down below Gilmores' sheep-yard, while
we were trolling for pickerel: got one specimen,
and we fished for pouts in the evening and got
four. Carrie staid all night.
Sat Aug 1
Rosa and I went to Bradford; called to see Mrs
Underwood and Hattie Crawford: went to Miss
Muchmore's. Got home about 2 o'clock P.M. France and
Jane Davis, Bessie Merrill and her father came. Mrs
Winship staid here while G.L. went to Bradford
my night-blooming cereus blossomed. Several people witnessed it.
110
Sun. Aug. 2 - 1885
Read; took a nap; transplanted some plants.
Mrs Renfrew; Mr & Mrs Hayes; Winship, Jepson and
Fuller called.
Will Williams was here this evening and made
himself exceedingly agreeable.
I have "muchly" enjoyed" the tooth-ache.
Sun. Aug. 9 -
Entertained Fred Welton a while this fore-noon.
Did some house-work and read a little.
Started about five-thirty o'clock to go to Goshen
for Mary E. Fulton, who is to teach school in
this district: arrived at Mary's home at dark
and back home at nearly ten o'clock.
Tues. Aug 11
Haskins' and company here fishing and numerous
other crowds: It was rainy in the morning
but came off very warm later in the day.
Linville H. Smith came up from Camp and
took pictures of Prince and Pearl.
I ironed several dresses and did a little sewing.
Mary and I have been down on the pond
and over to Mrs Freeman's.
111
Wed. Aug. 12
A rainy day. Hart and Esther Farr made a
visit here: I have been doing a lot of tucking
on the machine.
Thurs. Aug. 13
Did some mending. Mother and I visited
Camp Gilmore this after-noon:
Mary and I went down town and to Ely
and about: - got home about nine o'clock.
Fri. Aug 14 -
I worked around the house most of the fore noon
and sewed this after noon.
Camp Gilmore "broke up" - so they've come and
gone once more. Mary went to her home.
The Davis company campers have been here
this evening; Fred and Charlie played violins;
Elmer Freeman was here also.
Good-time: "Broom drill."
Sat Aug. 15
Charlie called and several others have done
the same. I have been sewing.
Elmer has been here at work: "Afraid in the
dark! oh! yes to be sure."
112
Mon. Aug. 24 - 1885
Started for Montpelier on the nine oclock train;
arriving just after noon.
Have not felt well and spent most of the
after noon lying down.
Olin spent the evening with me.
Tues. Aug 25
The weather has been too cold for comfort most of
the fore-noon. Plum took me for a ride to Seminary
Hill and about town: and I spent some time visiting
with a Miss Robins from Waterbury.
This after-noon I went down street with a Mrs
Smart; and later Plum took me for a drive toward
Waterbury.
Wed. Aug. 26
Have been putting the facing on my blue velvet
basque: Wrote a letter to Mary Fulton.
To-night Plum took me to the theatre: the play
was "The Bohemian Girl." I thought it rather silly.
113
Thurs. Aug 27 - 1885
Went down to the stores: Wrote to Geo. Palmer; read; visited.
I went with Uncle Plum over toward E. Montpelier to get
a horse from pasture.
This evening the Band played and we went down on
the street to hear it; It was awfully cold out.
I was introduced to Mr Fred Allar.
Fri. Aug. 28
This morning I read "Hamlet"; visited with Plum; went
down to the store.
Plum went to Corinth early in the after-noon and
I've not seen him since:
I've been out on the veranda: down in the dining-
room and up stairs with the table girls for amusement.
Sat. Aug 29
Made a thorough tour over the State House and got
so tired I could hardly go further.
This after-noon Plum took me to ride over to
Moretown, and I have visited with Miss Gertie
Alexander: Went with Plum to post office to night.
114
Sun. Aug 30. 1885.
A rainy day in Montpelier: I spent much of the
time on the veranda; so also did the table girls,
Mr Benjamin, the "Dyer," Mr Parker and "Yankee Ann,"
or "Telephone" Sortwell, Arthur Allen, and the chamber
girls and some others: All went merry and fun
was the key note.
Had an introduction to Mr Tim Kelleher of Barre.
Mon. Aug. 31.
Rainy, dark and dreary weather. I sat on the
veranda with Miss Alexander most of the fore-
noon; made a fichu and wrote a letter to
Aunt Mercy.
This after-noon I called on Rev. T. P. Frost; also
went for a ride about town.
This evening I have visited with Mr Allar on
the veranda: - very pleasant occasion.
Uncle David Young arrived at home for an
indefinite stay.
Tues. Sept 1.
Started for home on the eight o'clock train:
arrived at Fairlee about eleven: was awfully
car-sick. Tonight I called on Mary Fulton & Mary
Renfrew. Elmer came over.
115
Thurs. Sept. 3 - 1885
I did some ironing: This evening narrowed off a
stocking. Elmer has been here.
The "threshers" arrived - Cassius and a Fox.
Sun. Sept 6.
Mother has been away: I washed the glass and
china dishes and cleaned the dish cup-board;
got supper and have been quite busy.
To night I went to ride with Elmer to Bradford.
Tues. Sept 8
Sorted rags, did house work; ironed after-noon and
evening: Not feeling well on account of a stomach
trouble: my food distresses me.
Wed. Sept 9
Ironed; fixed a lining for my blue skirt and been
knitting on a "footing" for John that I commenced
last winter.
Thurs. Sept 10
Washed several dresses; pressed the cashmere and
put the skirt together of my blue that I am trying
to re-model for one more good turn. Cold to night.
Im feeling just miserable on account of my stomach.
116
Fri: Sept 11 - 1885.
It has been a most beautiful day: I made the
ruffle for my dress, and did some ironing.
This evening Mother, Rosa and I went "pouting."
I got eight: it was awfully cold out on the water.
Tues. Sept. 15
Sewed the seams of Mother's cambric dress and
made eighteen button holes in the same, and
cut out a cambric waist for my self.
Mother has been fishing this after noon.
I got awfully frightened while alone with Uncle
David: he had a "bad spell."
Elmer called this evening.
Thurs. Sept 17 -
Wrote a letter to Geo Palmer and went to the
post-office this fore noon.
Did some sewing this after noon and later called
on Sabra Clement:
I was agreeably surprised this evening by a personal
invitation by Will Corliss to attend a dance.
Mr William Pearson of Holyoke, Mass. a guest
here.
117
[image]
Fri Sept. 18. 1885
Went to Bradford; Had some photographs taken.
Called on Mrs Underwood and Hattie Crawford.
Went with Will Corliss to a dance at Charles
Granger's. Music by Ed Dayton. Not a very large
gathering but it was a lovely night and an
enjoyable occasion.
Was introduced to Mr Bartlett 2nd Quite nice.
Jims fifteenth and Elmer's twenty-third birth-day.
Sun. Sept 20 1885
Sabra and Marcia called: also Elmer, Mrs Renfrew and
John Paige. Mr Hayes came for me to go and keep
house for him a few days.
Mon. Sept 21 -
Mrs Hayes and Mrs Burns went to White River
this morning. I baked biscuit and two pies, bread
pudding and made brown bread: had good luck:
So much for house keeping.
Thurs. Sept 24
Did some cooking; - ironed colored clothes.
Mother came and staid while John went down street:
He brought a letter from Carrie who is teaching in
Springfield.
118
Friday Sept 25 - 1885
I have been busy with churning, ironing, sweeping;
making yeast, etc,
Eliza Mc Indoe called; also Mrs E. P. Johnson on business.
Mother came along and I went down street with her.
The day has been most beautiful.
Have written letters to Geo Palmer and Hattie Crawford
tonight.
Sat. Sept. 26
Mr Hayes went to White River and John Paige
and I were alone all day until Charles arrived
on the nine o'clock P.M. train.
I made two loaves of bread; brown bread; doughnuts;
three pies; steamed meat and baked apples; mopped
the floors and finished the ironing.
The canaries came from Aunt Mercy: Mother went
to the depot and got them.
I have knitted eight scallops of lace this evening.
Sun. Sept 27
Got the house work done about half past ten o'clock.
Rosa came over a while: I read some and then
Charles and I had a quiet chat.
Mr Hayes came about half past eight o'clock P.M.
119
Fri. Oct 2 - 1885
Cleaned windows; swept; dusted; regulated; did fancy
work.
Twenty-fifth Anniversary of Father's and Mother's marriage
and Mrs Baldwin's fiftieth birth day.
Fri. Oct 9
I cleaned the South chamber this fore noon, and
put down the carpet and regulated and wrote to
Geo Palmer this after noon.
This evening I received a note from W. S. Corliss
inviting me to go to ride next Sunday; answered
the note and wrote to Carrie.
Sunday Oct 11
John came about noon, and I went home with
him and staid until about four o'clock and John
carried me back to Hayes'. Then W.S.C. came and
we went for a drive up around Piermont and
Orford: Very pleasant time.
Thurs. Oct. 15
Wrote my fare-well address to Geo Palmer.
120
Sun. Oct 18 - 1885
John came after me about ten o'clock A.M.
Fred Richardson called and I rode back to Hayes' with
him. Rosa's 10th and Mattie's 18th birth day.
Fri. Oct 23.
It has been a lovely day and evening.
I have been house-cleaning and some stitching for
Mrs Hayes. Did crocheting this evening.
Was vaccinated by Doctor Chase.
Thurs. Nov. 5
At home to day on account of Uncle Plum having
arrived last night: he and I went boating. then
he went home and I returned to Mr Hayes.
Lena Baldwin and Kit Gilmore spent the evening here.
Sun. Nov. 15
Father came over after me: Found Grace, Dan and
Emma Davis at the house. Sabra, and Big John and
"Little" John Paige came also.
I called on the Renfrews this after-noon.
W.S. Corliss called on an errand - invitation to go
to a dance: John brought me back to Hayes.
121
Tues. Nov. 17 - 1885
Went to a dance at Orfordville with Will Corliss;
Quite a good time: good music: quite a good
crowd, though some had too much bug juice to
make them agreeable: I danced every figure.
Got home at three o'clock.
Wore my new silk skirt and velvet basque.
Wed. Nov. 18 -
Did a big ironing and other work this fore noon.
And had a nap this afternoon:
Thurs. Nov. 19
I did several odd jobs of work, and among the
rest painted the window sills on the out side
this fore noon: Then Mrs Hayes and I "tacked" a
"comforter" and I sewed for myself a bit.
Fri Nov. 20
Found plenty to do all the morning. Sewed after noon.
Spent the evening with Carrie: we had a moon-
light walk - and such a perfectly lovely night.
As light as day.
122
Sat. Nov. 21 - 1885.
A busy day for the first half of it: This after noon Mrs
Hayes was away. - and I sewed, read and sung by
way of amusing myself.
Carrie came and staid all night with me -
"Talk - talk."
Sun. Nov. 22 -
Finished work for Mrs Hayes: received pay in full.
Father came over after me - Now for a while at home.
Tuesday Nov 24.
Father and Mother went to Bradford. I partly cleaned
the pantry. This after noon Milton N. Davis and wife came,
and John and I went with them to John Clements
and spent the evening.
Wed. Nov. 25.
Ive been cleaning house. Milton went away.
About a foot of snow has fallen during the day.
Thurs, Nov. 26
Thanksgiving Day; and a very quiet one: I have not
been feeling well. Went down town with John this
evening. The snow clinging to the trees is a beautiful sight.
123
Sat Nov. 28 - 1885.
Father and I went to the street this morning: it was
very cold. The trees are just superb, all loaded yet
with snow and ice.
This after noon I gave all the plants a good washing:
mopped the floors.
This evening Mrs Freeman, Elmer, Hattie and Jimmie;
also John Clement were in.
I finished my green macrame lambrequin and
commenced some lace.
Sun. Nov. 29.
Wrote letters to R. H. Hart, Portsmouth, N.H. in an-
swer to an advertisement: and to E. C. Goodwin of
Taunton, Mass. to Uncle James and Aunt Sarah and
to Murray Davis folks at Springfield.
Wed. Dec 2 -
Helped Mother on Rosa's dress during the day and
evening. Sabra spent the after noon here.
Geo. Sampson and Frank Williams were here awhile.
124
Fri. Dec 4 - 1885.
Father, Mother and Rosa went to Warren. John and I
went to Bradford. I got navy blue flannel for a dress
and left it at Miss Muchmore's to be cut.
John got a suit of clothes.
We called to see Hattie. Will Corliss came out to-
night. - 12 o'clock-past.
Sun. Dec 6.
Father, Mother and Rosa returned from Warren.
Mr & Mrs Renfrew spent the evening here. Mary L.
Gaffield came to teach the school.
Tues. Dec 8
Was sick most all day ° - but managed to finish my
blue skirt begun long ago.
Went to dancing school at Orford with W.S.C.
Mr Hough teacher: It begins with thirty seven scholars.
Arrived home at a quarter of eleven amind falling
snow. Sleighing is fine.
Wm H. Vanderbilt died at his New York home worth
$194.650.000.
125
Thurs. Dec 10 - 1885
Father and I went down town this morning.
I was at Belle Rice's quite a while: Worked on an
apron for Mattie this after noon.
John, Mary and I went over to Renfrews and spent
the evening: Recd. a letter from R.H. Hart. Portsmouth.
Fri Dec 11 -
Ironed: To night went to dancing school with Will.
Everything superb, excepting the sleighing, which is decidedly
difficult: Number of scholars on the increase.
Sun. Dec 13.
John and I went down on the pond and had
a number one - two-mile skate. The ice is in
splendid condition.
Wrote a long letter to Anna Barbour of Clifford,
Mich.
Tues. Dec. 15
I was busy all the fore noon cleaning, mopping, etc.
This after noon Grace (Ellis) Davis, was brought to Fairlee
for burial: her brother, Frank Ellis, Murray, Emma
and Dan came home with us.
Late in the evening Will Corliss, Frank Morris and
other came up across the ice bridge and called.
126
Wed. Dec 16 - 1885
Went skating; broke a strap, and got about a mile
of walking homeward.
This after noon Murray, Emma and I have been to
Bradford.
Charles Granger and Merrill Sanborn spent the
evening here.
Thurs. Dec 17 -
John Clement and I have been dressing poultry
all day and part of the evening: Murray worked
with us a part of the time.
I had fifteen ducks killed: kept three and sold John
Clement a small pair:
John D., Mary and myself called on Olin and his
Mary.
Fri Dec 18
Assisted with packing the poultry for market this
morning: Canvassed the "city of Frogville" for cash
to be used for Christmas benevolence this after noon.
Will and I went to dancing school tonight.
Sat. Dec 19
John Clement and I dressed hens this fore-noon.
Not feeling well, I indulged in sleep this after noon.
127
Tues. Dec 22nd 1885
Finished a Christmas apron for Mattie and commenced
one for Aunt Mercy.
To night Will and I went to dancing school and
afterward to the "serenade" = no where in particular.
Wed Dec 23 -
Worked every minute on Aunt Mercy's apron: doing
two-thirds of the "out line" work, and this evening I
have knitted about a quarter of a yard of lace for
the same.
John started for Montpelier with Pearl and "Bullet."
Thurs. Dec 24
Did up some "packages" to send away on the mail
train: and drove "Blackie" down town.
Fri Dec 25
Commenced my blue tricot dress. Went down
town to help arrange the Christmas tree: Rosa
went with me. Made the acquaintance of Mrs Geo.
Spear and took tea with her. We returned to the
evening exercises all together: Jim came down
on foot to go home with us.
128
Monday Dec 28th 1885.
Helped wash: sewed this afternoon: Will and I
went to dancing school: we had a "new step" given
us - but the new waltz seems to be unconquerable.
Wed. Dec 30
Sewed most all day: Went to a dance at Charles
Granger's with Will: there was quite a good crowd
and generally a good time, but I got some what
provoked at Ed Freeman and Ed Pierce for their
rowdyish conduct, and too I have suffered with a
severe pain in my thumb, caused by jabbing a
pin into it last evening:
Arrived home at twelve-forty-five o'clock: the ride
was very pleasant.
Friday Jan. 1st 1886.
The new year finds me at home: the family consisting
of the "original six" and Uncle David and Mary Lusia
Gaffield. The sleighing has departed and "wheeling" is
difficult: I have spent the day at sewing.
129
Sun. Jan 3 - 1886.
Resolved to go to church but failed to get there; about noon
Warren, Josie and Flossie Davis came: we had some good
music: I have been reading "We and Our Neighbors"
by Harriet Beecher Stowe tonight.
Selah George's twentieth birth-day.
Mon. Jan 4 - 1886.
Father and I went to Bradford about ten oclock this
morning and got home at dark; I went to Miss
Muchmore's to have my dress draped.
Called on Hattie at the Trotter House: had a confi-
dential chat and "a peice of news."
Mary finished boarding here.
Will's nineteenth birth day.
Tues. Jan. 5th
I have sewed diligently all day. To night Will and
I attended dancing school number six: Everything
was agreeable excepting the traveling.
"Thus youth and age from different standpoints look
To days to come, and back to those long past.
And pleasant be their thoughts! As when a book
Is full of promised pleasure and of vast
Expected wonders, we are over-vast
130
To pass the preface and our hero meet;
So, when the book is read, it is replete
With pleasure, greater than our castles fair
Could give when we began. And life is sweet,
If at its eve - comes rest from anxious care."
Sun. Jan 10 - 1886
My twentieth birth day: I read; wrote one letter
and commenced another one, then Will came;
Mary Gaffield was also here awhile - then Will and
I continued our "tete-a-tete" until - well, never
mind about the hour that the meeting broke up.
Tues. Jan. 12
Mercury at twenty-five below zero. I sewed: Had
a letter from Matt: she has a "job" for me in shop.
"Hope springs eternal in the human breast:
Man never is, but always to be blest."
(Pope)
Wed. Jan 13.
Finished my blue dress and christened it by wearing
it to a dance at Charles Granger's: Went with
Will: Had a nice time and a good company.
Ed Dayton furnished music. Got home about mid-
night and it was a little later when "the boy" left.
A terribly cold night.
131
Thursday Jan 14 - 1886.
Commenced a dark gray flannel skirt for myself.
Dancing school to night: I went down with John, as
Will had to stay at the store until eight o'clock: -
but of course he brought me home.
Had an "extra" after the school, and just a splendid
time. Got home about one oclock.
Sat. Jan 16.
I went over to Mrs Hayes' this after-noon and did
some stitching on machines for her.
John came later and we spent a pleasant evening.
A Miss Ames and Mr. Taft were there and Charles
came home.
Sun. Jan 17
Sabra called: I made a dark print apron that I was
much in need of - then went to church with Sib.
Mr Bruce preached, taking his text from the parable
of the sower." (I don't suppose that was because
I "sewed" an apron this morning).
After church John carried me down to Abia
Hutton's to work; Mrs H. is sick: I am to get $2.50
per. week - four in family, including myself.
Selah George came in this evening.
132
Monday Jan. 18 - 1886.
Did the housework and a big washing and mopped
floors: Employed my spare time in reading.
Wed. Jan. 20th
Been very busy in many ways during fore noon and
did the ironing this after noon. Bie called here - and
John also: Had a letter from Matt and wrote one
to Ben. Hoyt.
Friday - Jan 22nd
A very busy day in my business: Went to dancing
school tonight as usual; Had an "extra" and
a fine time.
Saturday Jan 23
Baked pies and cookies; mopped floors and helped
make sausage. Bie called this evening.
Tuesday Jan 26
I baked pies and bread; sewed and wrote a letter.
Selah came and spent the evening:
Wed. Jan 27
I ironed what clothes were dry - and "tried out" lard:
and made a busy day of it.
Had letters from Edd and Matt.
133
Sat. Jan. 30 - 1886.
I did the customary Saturday work:
This evening I went with Bie Hutton to Granger's.
John Pierce was there. Songs, fun and a good time.
Home at twelve oclock.
Sun. Jan 31 -
A beautiful day. I have been reading "Puck."
Bie called. This evening Will and I went out
home - 2-30.
Monday Feb. 1. - 1886.
Washed and mopped floors: Went to dancing school
with "my boy" - had an extra and a good time:
It was a cold night - I got home at 12-30 and got a
frozen ear.
Tues. Feb. 2
Made bread, pie, cookies and doughnuts; - sewed some:
Bie John William Hutton called and spent the evening. (?)
Thurs. Feb. 4.
This evening Bie Hutton, Mattie Granger, Minnie Morris,
Will and I spent the evening at George Ballam's, and
such a time as we had! oh! my.
It was awfullly cold out: Got home about half-past
one o'clock.
134
Friday Feb. 5 - 1886.
House work and sewing have been my employment.
"The boy" and I attended dancing school: not as many
people present as is usually the case, but we had
a very enjoyable evening and got home early.
Sun. Feb. 7
Bie called. I discontinued my labors for Mrs Hutton
and Will brought me home this evening.
A very enjoyable occasion.
Thurs. Feb. 11
Went to Bradford: called at W. S. Davis': Father and I have
Been to C. S. Baldwin's this evening to drill for the
coming event - an antiquarian party.
Sukey C. Archer came to pay us a "visit."
Monday Feb. 15
To night I went down town with John and from
there to dancing school with Will: Good time.
Tues. Feb 16
This evening Father, John and I went down to Baldwin's
for rehearsal, and at nine o'clock Will came for me
to go to a dance at Granger's, - a good time.
135
Wed. Feb. 17 - 1886.
The Antiquarian Supper and Old Folks Concert
was "the greatest show on earth" tonight.
The church was well filled with spectators.
I dressed in garments fashioned long ago and
sang in "ye choir."
Thurs. Feb. 18
John and I went down town this morning.
I have been sewing this afternoon.
Mary, Sabra, Harry Renfrew and all the "small fry"
of the neighborhood came over: "we girls" and small
boys went skating.
Father and Mother have been away.
Fri Feb. 19 -
Father and Mother away, day and evening.
I busied my self by cleaning the pantry and cooking.
and have been dissecting some garments that have
seen better days.
Sun. Feb. 21
Read: - wrote a letter. Sabra, also Elmer have been
in: and to night Mr & Mrs Renfrew.
Will called. [Image]
136
Mon. Feb. 22 - 1886.
A beautiful day: I did some washing and more
ironing. Father and Mother went away to spend
the night. John "vamouched" and I had the
pleasure of my own company for the evening.
Tues. Feb. 23.
Made some repairs on my brown dress.
Went to a dance at Granger's with "Billie" - quite
a big crowd - good time.
Thurs. Feb. 25
Finished the alteration of my silk and velvet gown,
and now I hope I will feel better suited with
it than ever before. It has been a rough stormy day.
To night I went down town with John and to
dancing school No 12 with Will: had an "extra" and
supper at the Elm House. A perfectly splendid
time and got home about two o'clock.
Sunday Feb. 28 -
Have written to Gertie: Will came out through
the numerous snow drifts: He is a "trump card",
all right: but tonight he mutters about "angel stew"
"incubators" and "agencies." What a boy!
137
Tues. Mar 2nd 1886.
Been sewing. Had a letter that interested me not
a little. If I only knew!
Mon. Mar 8 -
Dancing school at Orford as usual - Fine time -
Home about one oclock.
Tues. Mar 9th
Peiced patchwork: "Billie" and I went to a dance
at Ira Melendy's: had a very nice time and got
home about half past two o'clock.
Thurs. Mar. 11
Completed my "crazy" square for the church fair
quilt, and went to Mc Lane's this after noon and
helped put the quilt together: got home just after dark.
Then John and I made a long promised visit at
Barzy Adams': got home at 12-30 oclock.
Fri. Mar 12 -
Visited school = the closing day. To night John and I
went to a dance at Granger's. Dayton and Stone
furnished music. The hall was full and so was some
of the company. Home at 1-30.
138
Sunday Mar. 14 - 1886
John and I attended church.
"Billie" came to night: we exchanged photographs. [Image]
Tues. Mar 16 -
More or less stormy: I went to Bradford: called on Mrs
Underwood: brought Hattie Crawford home with me.
Payson Clay from North Thetford was waiting here when
I got home: I hired out to do house work for him.
Anson and George Spear and wife spent the evening
here.
Thurs. Mar. 18
Carried Hattie to Bradford this morning: from there I drove
to Fairlee village: called on Mrs Hayes and Mattie Granger.
It has been a most lovely day over-head but for we
mortals who remain below the traveling has been simply
dreadful. Elmer and Sabra here this evening.
Tenny Clements 9th; Mary Chamberlin's 21st and Will
Mellen's 22nd birth days.
Fri. Mar. 19
Annie Wise and Sabra Clement have been here today.
To night John and I went to a "junket party" at
Kemp's. About ten couples present. I danced about half
the time.
139
Sun. March 21 - 1886
Dark and some what stormy: John and I attended
church; preaching by Rev. Mr Lees.
I have been feeling "kinder" blue and lonesome so retire
early, but -
"The world existed ere we came to town,
And will live on when we are salted down."
Mon. Mar. 22nd
Did some washing and some sewing:
Went to Orford to Hough's dancing drill as usual - and
enjoyed the dance, but coming home was still better.
Arrived about two o'clock A.M: "No hurry."
Tues. Mar 23
Sewed for Mother and myself. To night John and I
made a long promised call at H. P. Warren's: reached
home at 11-15 o'clock.
Wed. Mar 24 -
Busy forenoon. Mr & Mrs C.S. Baldwin visited here
this after noon: I commenced a big apron for myself.
John and I attended a dance at John Clements'
Crowd enough and a very fair time: Got home
little past one o'clock.
140
Thurs. Mar. 25 - 1886
Cut out four big dark aprons for myself and sewed
a little on one commenced yesterday.
Got mad tonight: and for a good cause too.
Fri. Mar. 26.
Dance at Granger's: I went with John and Will
brought me home - arriving at two oclock A.M.
The traveling is awful: "Levi" Chandler was particularly
pleasing to night; - can't imagine what came over him.
There were lots of fancy dances and a fine time.
Sun. Mar 28
Jon Roberts, John Clement, Elmer Freeman and
Geo. Lufkin been here.
Marcia Peckett's fifteenth birth day.
Mon. Mar 29
Elroy Davis and Harry Kelley started for Dakota.
Thurs. Apr. 1st
Did some sewing: John, Rosa and I went early to the
"Crazy entertainment at the church. John and I made
a "bluff" at singing "Friendless and Sad" beside taking
parts in medley singing and reading.
141
Went to supper with Will; flirted with several: got
mad at C.A.G: Had two April-fool letters and a fine
time.
Sat. Apr. 3 - 1886
I am not feeling a bit good. Sent word for Carrie
to visit me. We had a pleasant after noon: I busied
myself making button holes.
This evening we did an an ammount of "sparking"
as of old; - retired about eleven o'clock, and kept
up a continual flow of "gab." until three o'clock A.M.
Sun. Apr. 4
Carrie went home about noon. I hunted out
many old relics and burned a lot of trash.
Will came out and spent the evening (?).
a very enjoyable occasion.
Wed. Apr. 7
Mrs Renfrew, Eliza Chamberlin and Annie Wise called.
I have been sewing.
Went to dancing school, but can't say I had a good
time, for I was just wretched: I got provoked
at Will: - we had a plain talk coming home and
sober feelings are the result.
142
Thurs. Apr. 8 - 1886.
Made a second attempt at dying my brown
skirt, and like the Irishman, hit him in the
same place where I missed him before.
Did some washing and sewed a little.
Friday Apr. 9 -
Been busy doing house work during the morning:
Went down town after noon.
This evening Minnie, Will, Bie and Charlie came out.
Sib came down and we all went to serenade Albert
Fuller and his new wife.
Sun. Apr. 11
John and I went to church - and called at Hayes'.
Will and Minnie came out this evening: About
eleven o'clock John took M - back to Hayes', and
Will staid later - some thing like 3-15.
"The boy" had a bad case of measles, and "played baby."
Wed. Apr. 14
Had a busy morning getting ready to depart, which
I did on the 11-51 train to North Thetford to work
for E P. Clay: callers were there when I arrived.
I arranged my things and made a pillow case.
143
Sun. Apr. 18 - 1886.
A most beautiful day. I took a little "voyage of discovery"
in the woods: found yellow violets and April flowers
plenty: Wrote a letter to the folks at home and to
Mary Luvia.
Pleasant it was, when woods were green,
And winds were soft and low,
To lie amid some sylvan scene,
Where, the long drooping boughs between,
Shadows dark and sunlight sheen
Alternate come and go.
Or where the denser grove receives
No sunlight from above,
But the dark foliage interweaves
In one unbroken roof of leaves,
Underneath, whose sloping eaves
The shadows hardly move.
(Longfellow).
Mon. Apr. 19 - 1886.
Did quite a sizable washing; completed some sewing
I had commenced.
It has been some what showery but very warm.
Frogs are getting tuned up in ernest.
144
North Thetford.
Wed. Apr. 21 - 1886.
Have had a hard days work, cleaning and regulating
the sitting room. Had a letter from Will.
Thurs. Apr. 22 -
Cleaned the light pantry and sewed.
Gertie Sawyer, Minnie Howe and Kate Ladd made
me a call. It has been a perfect summer day.
I have written Will a long letter to night.
Friday Apr. 23 -
Cleaned the dark pantry and polished the
sitting-room stove.
Received letters from Ben Hoyt and Rosa; also
from Rosa a box of may-flowers.
Sun. Apr. 25
Read some of Longfellow's poems after my work
was done.
Will came about three o'clock with "Dot" and a
brand-new carriage - we went to ride around
N. Thetford, E. Thetford, Pompanoosic, Union Village,
Thetford Hall and Lyme: Met John & Minnie.
Got back to Clay's about eight o'clock, and Will
went home about ten.
It has been a lovely day.
145
Tues. Apr 27 - 1886
Did an immense ironing.
Ladd's steam mill at the village burned: also Holt's
barn across the river, together with three horses, three
sheep, a calf and seventy hens.
Sun. May 2nd
Resolved to go to church, but John came and staid
until about four o'clock: We went out on the knoll
for a view of the surrounding country.
After he left I strolled over into the pine woods,
finished reading Longfellow's "Evangeline" and wrote
a letter to Ben Hoyt.
Mon. May 3rd
Washed, and sewed: It took me until bed-time to
do the "extras" ie, folding clothes, making bread sponge,
and ninety-nine other things.
Received a letter from Will.
Fri May 7 -
"Tea Party" came off last night: the baby arrived.
about 4-30 A.M. Lizzie Bean for nurse.
Tonight I went with Will to a dance at Jaquiths' Hall.
Number of Fairlee people present. Music by Mr & Mrs
Davis Ware: Quite a good time. Home about one o'clock A.M.
146
Sunday May 9th 1886.
After the work was done, I took a quiet siesta.
Later Minnie Howe and Gertrude Sawyer came.
I attended church with them at evening service -
and Mr Bartlett walked home with me.
Tis a lovely evening.
Tues. May 11
Did the ironing and baked bread: been working
around the house all day.
There was a drenching rain storm this morning
and the rest of the day has been dark and cloudy.
I had a letter from Hoyt and two from Will.
Sun. May 16.
A dark rainy day until about three o'clcok, then
the sun came out and it cleared off and we
had a magnificent moon light night, but the air
was quite cool: I read the 'Courtship of Miles Standish."
Will came about five o'clock for a drive: We took
in East and North Thetford, Lyme Plain, Orford
Fairlee and Frogville; called at Davis' just after
they had gone to bed.
Arrived back at Clay's at 2-30 A.M.
147
N. Thetford.
Mon. May 17 - 1886
Got up early - had breakfast ready at a quarter of six:
washed, mopped, churned and set out my new plants: feel
much better to-day than I expected to after being out so
late last night: The weather has been quite cold & windy.
Gertie, Minnie and Effie called at the door.
Had letters from Sib and Will.
Wed. May 19
Cleaned the dining room, closet and entry:
The weather is quite warm; lilac and apple trees are
very beautiful just now and whip-poor-wills numerous.
Sun. May 23 -
Got my work done about eleven o'clock: then occupied
the hammock and tried to read but was too sleepy
so indulged in laziness.
Will came - and Bie and Sarah followed: we drove to
E. Thetford, Lyme Plain, Orford and Fairlee: got back about
ten; just in season to jingle the bell so Mrs Bean
could know all about it.
Will took his first lesson in "zoology" - subject,
a mud-turtle.
148
Mon. May 24 - 1886.
My days work has been simply a repetition of the
usual Monday program: then I finished stringing
the morning glories and arranged the "consequences"
for Jerry. Wrote to Aunt Mercy.
Sun. May 30
I had felt awfully blue and sad all day - and was
indulging in a good cry when, unexpectedly, Will
came: We took a short drive, and almost to my
surprise, he promised me not to take any more
strong drink until Jan 1st, next. O may God bless
the boy and help him in every time of trial and
temptation: I cried first for sad-ness, but since,
for joy: This drive of to day; to-night; - has
proved to be the most satisfactory one of all.
Wed. June 2nd
Ironed this fore noon: Mrs Clay came to the dinner table
the first time since baby came.
It has been terribly warm and I have suffered
from a raging head-ache all after noon.
Fri June 11
Mattie Granger, Minnie Morris and Kate Davis made
me a call. I wrote Mr Hoyt a letter.
149
Sun. June 13 - 1886
A very rainy day. I have been reading a
Phrenological Journal to discover, if possible, whether
I am wise or other wise, and conclude it is probably
the latter. Wrote a long letter to Will.
Tues. June 15
Sweeping and baking day. I sewed after noon:
My dear friend. Hattie E. Crawford, becomes Mrs
Fred L. Hayden today.
Wed. June 16
Very warm and still cloudy: I washed the colored
clothes and flannels and did quite an ironing
for baby: and this after noon have been knitting
lace. After tea I went after wild strawberries
and got about a quart.
Sun. June 20
A most lovely day. Bie and Sarah, and then Will,
came: we all went over to the lake and had
a boat-ride and swing - got back about "11-15 to 12"
I have just begun to get acquainted with Will.
150
N. Thetford.
Friday June 25th 1886.
Cloud with some rain: I got greens for dinner,
baked pies and did some ironing:
I've kept up such a persistent thinking all day
that it has given me a head-ache.
It is said that "There are in human hearts battle-fields
as grand as Thermopylae, as great as Waterloo."
"O, the strife and the bitter war-fare that is ever
going on in the heart of man between the
powers of good and evil; between the extending
forces of light and darkness!
It is more glorious to withstand the assailments
of evil and conquer self than to die like Leonidas
among the warriors slain."
Sun. June 27 -
Cloudy. I wrote a long and some what sober
letter to Will, and made an attempt to write
another, but it was no use. I was not in the
mood for it: but rather, in a "Sunday night reverie."
Finished reading "Braggadocio" by Mrs L. C. Tutthill.
"Laugh, and the world laughs with you, Weep, and you weep alone.
For the sad old earth must borrow its mirth,
But has trouble enough of its own."
151
Fri July 2 - 1886
Baking and sweeping day: Finished fixing over my
satteen dress.
Went with Will to a dance at Granger's. Quite a
crowd and a pleasant time but not very cool.
Got back at half-past three o'clock in the morning.
Sat. July 3rd
"And so the idyl is finished, and with its last
strains still lingering in delighted ears, we are
back in the work-aday world of prose and fact
and harsh necessity."
I arose at about the usual time; did baking,
mopping etc. Napped during the after noon.
Sun. July 4th
The thermometer stood at 100 above zero, in the shade, at
about half-past two this after noon.
Will came about two o'clock, and we went up home,
had callers there: Then the boy and I went for a boat
ride to the foot of the pond - and enjoyed a swing
in a hammock; returned home just after dark.
Got back to Clay's at mid-night; had a fine time.
"This renewal of old friendship with the beautiful summer
world, comes each year full of the charm of fresh delight, and
fragrant with the perfume of old memories."
152
Wed. July 7 - 1886.
The terrible heat of the day is partially allayed by
a fine breeze. It has been a general sweeping day
day with numerous odd jobs.
A most lovely night.
"We look upward, and see signal stars hung out over
the canopy, indicating that there are vast domains
beyond this narrow habitation, - domains that
we would rejoice to explore, - worlds that we
thirst to know about."
Sun. July 11
Will came down the river in a canoe, and, like
a good boy that he is, spent the after noon and
evening with me. The day has been quite warm
and the evening just perfect.
Sun. July 18
John came about one o'clock P.M. and Will came
down the river about two o'clock: Quite a smart
thunder shower came about that time, too.
John went home about five and "Billie" spent
the evening with me.
153
Sun. July 25th 1886.
I made an attempt at letter writing; - read and
tended baby. Will came down the river at
five o'clock P.M. and I met him at the "landing"
place; where we remained until almost dark: we
had a pleasant evening and then "waited at
the door for the moon to rise." A perfect success.
"I'll bet yes."
Mon. July 26 -
A dark rainy day. I washed; - there was company
to dinner: I finished writing a letter to Matt:
and read some in Peck's Bad Boy: one subject of
which I will record here as "the Boy with a Lame
Back" caused by being talked to with a bed slat,
for writing a "Daisy" letter to Pa.
Friday July 30
Did general sweeping, mopping, and baked and ironed
some: Departed for home on the after noon train.
Rowed down to camp "Prospect" and made a call.
Will took me to a dance at the new Pavillion,
down across the pond in the "White Swan."
Quite a good time at the dance; got home about one
o'clock and we sat on the piazza and talked until
nearly three:
154
Sat. July 31 - 1886.
Mother and I went to Bradford. I had quite a bit
of trading to do: It was very warm and uncomfortable
driving. Spent the night at Camp with Carrie
Smith, Ardel Aldrich, Lillian Hartwell and Anna
Day; with Harry Aldrich and George D - as "guards"
in a neighboring tent. Carrie and I talked as long
as we could keep awake as we always do when together.
My weight to day is one hundred and sixty pounds.
Sun. Aug 1st
We girls indulged in a morning dip in the pond -
and Carrie and I treated ourselves to a boat ride.
I went up home about noon. Alex Gilmore, Royal
Morris and Will called.
To night Will brought me back to Clay's; it rained
for our benefit - and of course the boy had to
wait for the rain to cease. Successful? why, certainly!
at 1-30 o'clock:
"Love is ever busy with his shuttle,
Is ever weaving into life's dull warp
Bright, gorgeous flowers and scenes Arcadian
Hanging our gloomy prison-house about
With tapestries, that make its walls dilate
In never ending vistas of delight."
155
Thurs. Aug 5 - 1886.
It was quite a busy day. Wesley Bartlett came up
tonight and "played the agreeable" until about eleven
o'clock: but some how his mood failed to agree with
mine: I was some what on the "off side" any how.
Sun. Aug 8 -
Attended church: Went down to the river bank to
meet "my boy"; we sat there until most dark - then
had a most enjoyable evening indoors: we exchanged
locks of hair: It took a long time to say the
final "good-night" even after he got as far as the door.
I wonder why!
Friday Aug 13
Did some washing and baking - Had a note from Will.
went to Fairlee on the half-past six train: visited
with Harry Merrill for a while; went with Bie and
Sarah to the dance at Grangers': Ed Dayton, Jim
Stone and Henry Melvin furnished music: had a fine
time. Will brought me back to N. Thetford about
two o'clock. "Filling the woodshed" was an after
thought.
156
N. Thetford
Sun. Aug 15 - 1886.
I'm the victim of a fearful cold.
The day has been very cool and breezy,
Read "The Spanish Student" and commenced a letter
to Hattie, but discontinued it suddenly when
"the boy" arrived.
Mon. Aug 16
I performed in the wash tub and had not concluded
the performance when I was surprised at a door
yard call from B.P. Young and Miss Etta Langley.
After noon I sewed on a pink lawn dress for myself,
and finished Hattie's letter to night.
It rained hard during the after noon and evening
with no indication of its abating.
Tues. Aug. 17 - 1886
Did some baking and some ironing: Did some
sewing for myself on Mrs Shepard's machine this
afternoon. Took a little trip down to the "city"
to night, and met Mr Ben. Hoyt, who evidently,
was "looking for some thing", and as that some-
thing happened to be me, he walked back to the
house and spent the evening.
157
Wed. Aug. 18 - 1886.
Sweeping day and I also did some baking.
Mr Hoyt called for me this after noon and we went
to Frogville, returning about eight thirty oclock: and so
its "over." Tis true I refused the offer of a good home,
doubtless, - but, "home is where the heart is" - and
surely its not in his keeping.
I don't know where I am drifting, but time
will tell.
Thurs. Aug. 19
I have felt sober and have done some hard
thinking. Had a letter from Will.
Friday Aug. 20
Did some baking - finished my pink lawn dress
and wore it to a dance at Warren Alber's.
I have felt awfully sober, but partially recovered
on the way home: I half believe I'm love-sick.
Sunday Aug 22
Went down to the river and met my boy -
where we tarried a while as per past custom,
oh! but what an amount of strength and
nerve force we waste "doing nothing"!
I was almost persuaded to do some thing desperate this
night. Will went home at 2-40. "Whip-poor-Will."
158
N. Thetford.
Sat. Aug 28 - 1886.
Did a big washing, mopped floors, and baked bread.
Picked up my posessions and went to Fairlee on
the six-thirty P.M. train. Chas. David, Walter Robie
and others whom I knew were aboard. Met Will
at the station: John came to meet me and I
arrived home right side up with care.
Sun. Aug. 29 -
I have been quite busy about the house.
Mrs Renfrew called: Toward night I went down to
the pond to meet Will: we paused by the way-side
and sat on a camp table down in the woods:
Then strolled along up to the house.
Billie is some what tired after muster so departed
quite early: oh! the boy!
Monday Aug. 30
Began my labors as school marm on a salary of $2.00
per week: school starts off with Marcia Peckett, Tenny
Clement, Jim and Rosa Davis: but more will
be added later.
159
Thurs. Sept. 2 - 1886.
Went with John to a dance at Grangers' - Will could
not get away from the store until late, but I
came home in his good care: - Bie brought us
out to the foot of the pond and
we
crossed the water
safely in the "White Swan." Then we sat on the
steps: - "my naughty boy and me."
Fri Sept 3 -
After supper I went over to Hayes' and got Phil. -
took Carrie along too; drove Gypsy Paige Davis -
and confess I am not charmed at all with
her: Visited Carrie until John came up from
"town" and then tagged him home.
Sun. Sept. 5
Met Will at "the landing" and he took me for a
boat ride: I felt just in the mood for "raising
Cain". We came up to the house and teased and
tormented each other until we were weary: and
probably longer than was good for either of us.
"What fools we mortals be."
160
Wed. Sept. 8 - 1886.
To night after school I drove "Black Maria" down town:
she was "fidgety" before we started and a "pizen old
critter" later: its no fault of hers that Carrie and
I were not made into "turn-overs."
Sat Sept 11 -
Finished cleaning the school house: dyed over my
brown dress again: - black this time, and I hope
its a success.
Spent the night with Carrie: - we read "science"
and talked until the "wee smae hours."
Sun. Sept 12.
Father came over after me about ten o'clock A.M.
I wrote one letter - but I'm very sad and lonely
to night - because it rains very, very hard and
the boy not "far away," but out of reach.
Sat. Sept 18 - 1886.
Carrie accompanied me to North Thetford: surely
I worked my passage by driving poor old foundered
Gyp Paige and "baby Gip." went to Mrs Clay's and
Marstons' store.
How swiftly has flown the time since one year ago
to night!
161
Sun. Sept. 19 - 1886.
Will came up across the pond and spent the evening
with me. There was a terrible thunder shower, then it
cleared off and was all starlight and beautiful.
Wed. Sept 29
Walked home from Chamberlins; did some writing:
Went to Bradford Fair with Jim and Rosa; Fell in with
Blanche and was with her most of the time when
I was not with Will. He took me to some side shows,
to dinner and to Fairlee on the 9 o'clock train and
from there out home.
I had tea with Mrs Underwood.
Sun. Oct 3rd
Have a terrible cold - am hoarse and my throat is
sore. William came to night and by the clock
it was twenty minutes of ten when he went
home - but then - I can't beleive every thing
I see.
Sat. Oct 9 -
Got up before day-light and Eliza Chamberlin and I
started for "some where" by way of Post Mills; we
traversed West Fairlee, a portion of Vershire, Corinth, Goose
Green and Cassville and arrived home about seven o'clock
in the evening by way of Brushwood: sold a few rug patterns.
162
Fairlee, Vt.,
Monday Oct 11 - 1886.
Seventh week of school: Went down town with Blackie
and took Carrie with me.
Oh. Autumn, with thy dying smell:
So faint, so sad and yet so sweet;
Amid the strewings at my feet,
By pattering nut and broken shell,
I feel the secret of thy spell; -
The flying year in full retreat -
For ever.
Wed. Oct 13 - 1886.
To night after school hours I drove Blackie to Bradford
to get some medicine for father, who is not feeling
first class. Got my brown dress from Miss Much-
more's. Reached home about half-past nine.
Tis a very beautiful moonlight night.
Sat. Oct 16
Got up before the dawn: the air was full of snow
and the weather is cold: I had the "shivers" all day.
Eliza and I drove to Bradford, West and South Newbury.
Took dinner with Josie Putnam - had a pleasant
day but did not get rich on sales.
163
Sun. Oct 17 - 1886
Pleasant weather: I've been busy around the house.
Marcia called. Will came out: fine time: well(?)
Ah! me. How time flies!
"How many social ties there are neglected
That should rejoice our days!
How many happy spirits sit dejected
Beside the world's high ways!
A blessing there, be on those pleasant faces
That genial warmth impart!
Sunbeams they are that brighten darksome places
Within the human heart."
Monday Oct 18
Begun boarding at A.C. Fuller's: or rather I stay
nights, but take dinners at Renfrews: - Will Mellin
and Harry Renfrew there.
To night May Fuller and I spent the evening with
Marcia.
Wed. Oct 20
Very warm and pleasant weather: I came home
to night for a woman's reason, - because.
Find we are blessed with Sukey's smiling
countenance: All of a sudden Uncle Frank, Aunt Ann
and Pert appeared on the scene.
Will made a brief front door call.
164
Friday Oct. 22nd 1886.
I rode as far as the post-office with John and
remained with Mrs Warren, baby Herbert and Sib
until Will got ready to go to a dance at Granger's.
Had quite a fine time: and just a little flirtation
with Frank and Selah.
Sat. Oct. 23
Concluded to go "peddling" with Eliza and Annie.
We drove to Orford, Piermont, Haverhill, So. Newbury
and Bradford: Visited the jail at Haverhill.
Stopped at Bradford and got new cloaks. I got a
seal brown beaver newmarket, fur trimmed for $14.00
Sunday Oct. 24th
Sunny and bright but just a bit too breezy.
Will came about noon and took me for a
drive; calling at his home a short time
Then this evening he surprised me by calling
again for a brief visit.
Mon. Oct .25
Ninth week of school: Uncle Frank and Aunt
Ann visited me at the "knowledge box" this
after noon.
165
Fairlee, Vt.,
Tues. Oct 26 - 1886
Uncle Plum and Aunt Etta came on the morning train
and visited school this after noon.
Sunday Oct. 31
I was busy in various ways. We all attended religious
services at the school house this after noon: preaching
by Rev. A.J. Hough, the subject of his discourse being
"the good Samaritan."
Will made his final and last visit to night. So all our
pleasures are of the past and gone are the good
times - the happy hours we've spent together!
How little my own people know what this means
to me! and how mistaken their belief in the
facts of this case! Why must I continue to live
now? Surely tis not my desire to go on - now
that our paths turn apart.
166
Fairlee Vt.,
Tues. Nov. 2 - 1886
I drove Maggie down town and took Carrie along.
Wed. Nov. 3 -
What a big lot of non-satisfaction there is in teaching
school when things just go wrong.
I went down town again tonight: Marcia going
with me this time:
A pleasant evening though a bit too breezy.
Fri Nov. 5.
Last day of school, and I'm sorry only because
I loose Marcia's companionship.
The closing exercises were declamations, select reading
and compositions.
Saturday Nov. 6
I did some washing and ironing in fore noon.
This after-noon went to Fairlee lake and got Minnie
Morris; brought her out to her own home.
Sun. Nov 7
A perfectly awful day: the wind blew furiously and the
air is full of snow. I have been doing mending, half
expecting Sam Morrison after me to go there to work.
This evening I filled out the school register.
167
Friday. Nov. 12 - 1886.
Did some sewing in morning: Drove Maggie to Bradford
after noon. Did shopping and went to dressmakers.
Mrs Renfrew here this evening.
Sat. Nov. 13
Worked all day around the house, mopping, scrubbing,
etc. It has snowed fast the greater part of the time.
Sunday Nov. 14.
Snow enough for just a bit of sleighing.
I managed to write two letters.
The day is done; and slowly from the scene
The stooping sun upgathers his spent shafts
And puts them back into his golden quiver!
O friend! O best of friends! Thy absence more
Than the impending night darkens the landscape oer.!
Wed. Nov. 17
A stormy day. This evening John Clement helped
Mother and me dress seventeen ducks which was
accomplished at 12-30 o'clock.
168
Thurs. Nov. 18. 1886
I went to Chamberlin's to help dress turkeys.
The whole force managed to do forty-six.
We girls slept three in a bed - if we slept at
all.
Friday. Nov 19
Same work as yesterday: "we" have a record
of fifty-eight turkeys and some chickens for to-day.
Elmer brought me home.
Sat. Nov. 20
Annie Wise and I went to Bradford. I got a hat
to match my new cloak: tis of light felt and dark
brown astrachan with brown breasts for decoration.
Returned home about dark: 'tis very muddy and
hard traveling.
Sun. Nov. 21
Warren, Ada, Harry and Grace Davis were here.
I dragged out a weary existence through one
more Sunday. Wrote to Mary Gaffield: finished
reading Longfellow's poems.
169
Monday Nov. 22. 1886
A very beautiful day. I drove "Mag" to North
Thetford; - got my brown cashmere, and called
on Mrs Clay. Clara Earle and Mrs Shepard
were there.
Tues Nov. 23.
A cold day and the traveling is difficult.
"Maggie and I" went to Bradford, and got the
full benefit of a heavy rain coming home.
Wed. Nov. 24.
Went after Kate Brennan to do some dressmaking.
having my blue flannel made over with red and
blue striped jersey cloth and a new brown cashmere.
Met Will down town and had a nice little
chat with him.
Thurs. Nov. 25
Thanksgiving Day. Finds us all at home.
I worked around the house and sewed.
Sat. Nov. 27
I did some sewing - and being about ninety shades of "blue"
had a good cry. Ed Smith and Viola Greenleaf called.
Went down town with Eliza: Carrie came home with
us and we "courted" until one and then retired.
170
Fairlee, Vt.,
Sun. Nov. 28. 1886
Carrie went home about three o'clock.
I read sermons by T. DeWitt Talmage this evening.
Mon. Nov. 29
Begun my labors for the winter term of school.
Have all of five scholars: - Jim, Rosa, Jim
Cunningham, Ed Field and Tenny Clement.
Sewed this evening.
Sun. Dec 5 - 1886
Such a lovely day! My soul is heavy; - I could
but weep.
Thurs. Dec 9 - 1886
Elroy came to find a horse so I had the
pleasure of meeting him for the first time
since a year ago last July.
Friday Dec 10 -
A lovely day. John and I drove to Barre, arriving
before dark, where I remained with Hattie Hayden.
We recalled old times and scenes and had a
very pleasant time.
171
Sat. Dec 11 - 1886
Went to Montpelier with Fred and Hattie: Met Guy
Fabyan - an old school mate.
Aunt Etta took me for a drive around town with
her horse "Minnie." John and I called on Mrs Frost.
Then Plum and Etta, John and I went driving with
the handsome pair of spotted horses: and in the
evening John and I had still another drive about
town with "Belle."
Sunday Dec. 12.
Uncle Plum, Aunt Etta, John and I went to ride
with a fine pair of horses.
John and I started for home at a little past
four o'clock P.M: - got tipped over in the snow
and Mag ran away: but we succeeded in arriving
home at half past eleven. I have felt most
miserable.
Monday Dec. 13
Third week of school. Also Hough's first night
of dancing school for this season. I attended
with John and Minnie.
172
Tues. Dec. 14 - 1886.
Kept school until recess time and was so sick
I had to give it up. and came home and
went to bed: toward night I felt considerably better
and got up and did a washing - after that I
was quite ready to get back to bed again.
Mother attended a "Tea party" at Rodney Merrill's.
Wed. Dec 15
Did not feel equal to teaching to day: I sewed
a little and crocheted a center for the boy's
fish net.
Sun. Dec 19
Manufactured some boxes and pasted clippings in
my scrap book.
Mon. Dec 20
Fourth week of school: Went to dancing school. -
had a very pleasant chat with Charles Rogers.
Thurs. Dec 21
Closed school at half-past three and went down
town with Mother and Rosa.
Had a little interview with Will - worth to me
some four dollars a minute.
173
Thurs. Dec 23rd 1886.
I'm feeling some what sober and sad.
Night brings me a letter from Anna Smith; a
Christmas card from Aunt Mercy: a shopping bag
from Mattie and a diary from John.
Sat. Dec 25 - 1886.
Christmas. I washed in morning: went down
town after noon: called on Mrs Warren.
This evening John and I went to the Christmas
tree entertainment at A. W. Paines.
Sun. Dec. 26.
"Tis always darkest where the light has been."
"Take away the sunbeams,
Snatch them from our sight,
Throw a shadow over
Scenes that once were bright;
And we miss the glitter
And the golden glare
More than if the sunbeams
Had never fallen there.
174
Let the young moon vanish
That so brightly rose
Over yonder hill top
At the long days close;
And the gloom is deeper
And more solemn then,
For tis always darkest
Where the light has been.
Cull the early flowers
Growing by the door
So that their bright beauty
Can be seen no more;
And the loss is greater
That we once have known;
Sweet it was to gather
Flowers so lovely blown.
Only learn to cherish
Fondly one true heart,
Draw it nearer, nearer,
Then for forever past;
Far more bleak and dreary
Life, that holds but pain,
For tis always darkest
Where the light has been
(Fannie Russell).
175
Mon. Dec 27 - 1886
Fifth week of school: Snowy and "blowy" morning.
and fair after noon.
Father and Myron Smith visited school.
I ironed this evening.
Wed. Dec 29 -
Kept school in the fore noon: and went to the
dedication of the newly repaired church this
after noon: Rev. Mr Lers preached, assisted by
Mr Hough and Mr Paul.
Thurs. Dec 30 -
Quite cold. I wrote a letter to Will, - some thing
of special importance.
This evening John and I went to Bradford.
I exchanged an article previously purchased
and got a writing desk.
176
Fairlee, Vt.,
Friday Dec. 31st 1886.
"Old year is dead! Pulseless and cold he lies
Wrapped in the purple of the midnight skies,
A crown of shimmering stars upon his breast,
His earth reign o'er. Peace to his royal rest!
Then rest, thou royal Old Year; tho' the New
We welcome in with loyal hearts and true,
Still art thou dear to all. Rest Old Year, rest,
I lay the rose of sweet remembrance on thy breast,
And tho' its colors fade, its crumbling heart
A perfume pure shall subtly e'er impart
Its sweetness to our senses. Have no fear -
Thou wilt not be forgotten, dear Old Year!"
Saturday Jan. 1st 1887
Hands of angels, hidden from mortal eyes, shifted
the scenery of the heavens; the glories of night dissolved
into the glories of dawn; and time has swiftly
brought us to the threshold of another year.
The new year finds me at home: - teaching school.
Singers were here this evening.
177
Monday Jan 3rd 1887
Fifth week of winter term of Frogville school.
Selah George's twenty-first birth day. Had a letter from
Will, which made me very happy indeed: and tonight
he and Frank Morris skated up across the crystal
boulevard, and during a brief interview - too sweet
to last; - he made me "a promise:" Oh! my dear
fellow, you don't half guess the truth: you will
never know how much you are to me.
May God be your guide in every moment of temptation,
and may you win in this battle, for surely if you
come out Victor in this, the world is yours.
Tues. Jan. 4.
The whole celestial concave was filled with the
inflowing tides of the morning light, which came
pouring down from above in one great ocean
of radiance, and studded the spotless mantle of earth
with rubies and diamonds.
The weather is clear and cold: the evening beautiful.
Will's twentieth birth day.
178
Wed. Jan 5th 1887
To night I went to dancing school at Orford with
John and Minnie: School No 3; second series. Hough.
A good company and a fine time.
Friday Jan 7 -
Think only of this earth as it floats beneath
the eye of God - a speck in the blue infinite:
A precious life balloon freighted with the family of
spirits He has milled to come up and travel in
this portion of His universe! At this very moment
and at each tick of the clock, some fifty souls
have departed hence; gone, with their tempestuous
passions, their strife, their truth, their hope, into
space and silence;
Does God stand ahead of this mighty car of
being, as it traverses the skies, only to
throw out the boundless wealth of lives it bears,
and plunges them headlong into the abyss midway
on their voyage through eternity?
179
Sat. Jan 8 - 1887
Kept school half a day: Went to Bradford after noon.
It was terribly cold driving, so I just hung the
reins over the dasher, and good old Mag came
home at such speed as would doubtless have
left Maud S. "hanging onto the ragged edge of despair."
"I watch the orbs of light in night's deep dome
Flashing familiar signals from the sky,
And wonder which swift world, encircling high
Its' central sun, will be my spirits home."
Sun, Jan 9 -
Warren and Ada visited us. I read some - and
then shut myself up in the front room and
had a pen and ink chat with "my boy."
Mon. Jan 10 - 1887.
Seventh week of school. Jim says I'm a man now,
this being my twenty-first birth day.
Tues. Jan. 11
To day find me sick abed all the fore noon and
not much better the rest of the time, though
I did manage to sew a very little.
Had to stay home from dancing school.
180
Sat. Jan 15 - 1887.
Kept school to day. Olin, Mary-Olin and Rosie
spent the evening here. - My dear little bird
Phil, entertained the company with songs.
"The waves of conversation roll and shape our
thoughts as the surf rolls and shapes the
pebbles on the shore."
Sun. Jan. 16
Attended church with father: read this evening.
Tues. Jan. 18
Came home from school to night fully convinced
that I do not posess the patience of Job.
One of my small boys will wear the expression
of an injured saint, although his performances
are impish to an extent which some times drives
me to the verge of distraction.
Did my washing to night.
Wed. Jan. 19
Temperature some thing like thirty ° below zero this
morning, but moderated enough to snow a little
late in the day.
181
Thursday Jan 20 1887
I have been working hard at school: and have
endeavored to impress on those boys that "attention
is the stuff that memory is made of."
Fri. Jan 21 - 1887.
Dancing school night: quite a large company
and a very good time.
Sun. Jan 23 - 1887
I staid home and did the "Bridget" act while the
rest went to church; and this evening have
written to Mary Gaffield and Will.
I have had a dreadful head ache all day.
Mon. Jan 24 -
Every thing has gone with a jar and bang all day.
I have felt nervous, tired, blue and cross and I
would cry if I had spunk enough to make the
effort. "Why should I live? Do I not know
The life of woman is full of woe?
Toiling on and on and on,
With breaking heart and tearful eyes,
And silent lips, and in the soul
The secret longings that arise,
Which this world never satisfies!
182
Fairlee, Vt.,
Tues. Jan 25th 1887.
This has been a most beautiful day: and I have
been feeling well. Dancing school No 6 - I went
same as usual: I was in the mood for a good
time and had it.
Wed. Jan 26 -
I finished reading a good book called Keenie's
Tomorrow by Jennie M. D. Conklin: and learned
that from the standpoint of Jupiter they have
four moons: What enchanting evenings must be
given the inhabitants of that planet!
Fri Jan 28
Jim and I went to Kibbey's to the first "sociable"
of the season: As I anticipated it was not a
very spicy affair: just a little music, a bit of
fun and some "sociable".
The clock noted our arrival home at twelve.
Sat Jan. 29th
It rained hard all day but cleared off toward night,
and we were given a gorgeous sunset in red and blue.
"At eve, she hangs over the Western sky
Dark clouds for a glorious canopy;
183
And round the skirts of each sweeping fold
She paints a border of crimson and gold,
Where the lingering sunbeams love to stay."
Did some sewing. To night went to a party at
John Clements - did'nt enjoy my self very much
and made a fool of my self by staying too late
for decency - because Will was there - he came
home with me: but bah! he was looking further
and probably would preferred to had me come
home long before I did:
Sun. Jan. 30 1887
Pretty hot times round here for this time of
year; - would think it about the middle of
August when ma got after me and casting
reflections on Will and my staying out so
late last night: - But as I'm not a short
hand writer I won't attempt the recoring [recording]
of the free lecture I got.
Mon. Jan. 31st 1887
Well the hot spell continues; but I had a
bit of happiness in a letter from "the boy."
184
Tues. Feb. 1st 1887.
This morning we awoke to behold
"A shower of gems is strewed around;
The flowers of winter rich and rare;
Rubies and sapphires deck the ground
And topaz and diamonds every where;
'Tis Winter's jubilee; this day
His stores their countless treasures yield;
See how the diamond glances play
In ceaseless blaze, from hill and field!"
This evening I did some mending, then helped
John "figure some examples in interest and
partial payments.
Sat. Feb. 5th
Have been busy sewing; - made an apron; made
button holes in a night gown, and partly
made another garment.
We received the news of Aunt Lucy's death: -
also of a terrible accident at White River: -
four passenger cars leaped from the Woodstock
bridge to the frozen river below - a distance
of over fiftly feet, where they were consumed
by fire together with about forty persons.
185
Mon. Feb. 7. 1887
Dancing school night: large company - good time.
Thurs. Feb. 10th
This evening finds me at dancing school No 9.
Have not enjoyed this as much as some
occasions. I wonder why.
Sat. Feb. 12th
Another Saturday spend in making up lost time
in school.
This evening I cut over some mutilated hosiery
and made new feet for them.
John Clement and Elmer came in.
Monday Feb. 14th
Twelfth week of school. Had a nice long letter
from Will.
Wed. Feb. 16 -
I swapped canary birds with Mrs Renfrew: gave
her Pearlie for Winnie.
Mrs Granger and Mattie visited us and spent
the evening. Mattie came into school a few
minutes.
186
Thurs. Feb. 17 - 1887
I spent the evening with Carrie while John
was gone down town.
I would not live alway;
I ask not to stay
Where storm after storm,
Rises o'er the dark way;
The few lurid mornings
That dawn on us here,
Are enough for life's woes -
Full enough for its cheer.
Sat. Feb. 19th
This morning we find the newly fallen snow
piled in huge drifts.
I have been very busy; did numerous small
jobs of sewing; did my washing and finished
writing a letter to Will, and certainly think
I "emptied the basket of gossip to its last chip"
Mrs Renfrew called.
"An hour well spent condemns a life;
For when we reflect on the sum of improvement
and delight gained in a single hour, how do
the multitude of hours already past rise up, and
say, "What good has marked us? Would'st thou,
then, know the true value of time? Employ one hour well!"
187
Sun. Feb. 20th 1887
John, Jim and I attended church. Rev. Mr Hough
preached a good sermon from I Chronicles XXI - 27-30.
"And the Lord commanded the angel, and he put up
his sword again into the sheath thereof.
But David could not go before it to inquire
of God; for he was afraid, because of the sword
of the angel of the Lord."
Mon. Feb. 21 -
John and I went to Bradford to night: I got
my black dress from Miss Muchmores'.
Thurs. Feb. 24.
It has been snowy and blowy, and my hopes
of going to dancing school have wavered and
at times been almost "extinguished," but came
off victorious, and I had a splendid time as
usual.
Sun. Feb. 27
A blizzard raged yesterday and there is no sign
of the wind abating: the snow is piling higher
and higher the huge drifts already made.
Tis impossible to get a team out without help.
I read a while. Elmer has been in.
188
Mon. Feb. 28th 1887.
Did not begin school until noon on account
of the roads being impassable:
I ripped and washed my pink lawn dress.
To night I finished reading "The Pocket Measure."
Had a letter from Will and answered it:
"It was the last straw that broke the camel's back."
Tues. Mar. 1st 1887.
Mrs Renfrew here this after noon and evening.
I received a reply from Will - and a farewell
thus takes place between us who have been
such good friends for so long a time!
And so, goodbye!
"How oft those words have trembled on my lips,
When in the brittle air of some chill night.
Thy kiss burned to my finger tips!
In the bright days that were, and are no more,
When you were all my own,
And I held fullest share in the dear love
I fought for, and thought won.
Good night! goodbye!
189
Good night! good bye!
If coarser were the love I bore for you,
There were some way, mayhap, the breach to mend;
But now like choicest Sevres, broken once, forever gone -
No alchemy will make the pieces blend.
Only in memory can we bring it back,
And live those golden hours o'er again.
For you the joyous home and happy life;
For me naught but undying pain.
Good night! good bye!
Wed. Mar 2nd 1887.
Dancing school No 11. John and I went: I tried
to have a good time - but am afraid I did not
succeed very well.
Thurs. Mar 3rd
John and I spent the evening at Mr & Mrs
Hayes', also took Carrie along with us, and
she came home also, and we sat up and
talked until half past one o'clock; after that
we lay awake until three and enjoyed the
contents of some old letters.
190
Fri. Mar 4th 1887.
Had Carrie to help me keep school all day.
To night I got ready in a hurry and went
with John to a dance at J.W. Bartlett's at
North Thetford: I played I had a glorious
time, but I didn't: To night was the first
time I have seen Will since - . O! what is
to become of me any way? Can I ever forget that
little squeeze he gave my hand when I
danced with him on this occasion?
We got home at 3-25 o'clock, - half frozen, tired
and heart sick.
"Apart, we tread the pathway
That spans the tide of years,
With faces calm and smiling,
With hearts all full of tears;
We hide the bitter sorrow
That lives for you and me,
The world with all its' watchers,
Must think us glad and free.
And now - we miss the music
That should have been our own;
The tender words of welcome
By us can ne'er be known.
191
Your face is ever silent,
Save when I meet your eyes -
Ah, then I read so plainly
Regret that in them lies.
No more through all the journey,
Will joy be ours again,
And yet there is a comfort
Despite the cruel pain;
For, in the final ending -
It may be far or nigh -
Our lives shall be united
When both of us shall die."
Sat. Mar. 5th 1887
I concluded my labors as school mistress at noon,
and I am not sorry: it has been such a long
term!
This after noon Mother and I called on Eliza
Chamberlin, who is quite sick, also stopped on
our return to see Mr Fuller and May.
This evening John and I made a long prom-
ised visit at Geo. Spear's, but oh! dear!
how sleepy I was!
192
Sun. Mar. 6 1887.
The weather today is just a repetition of
one week ago to day.
It was nearly noon when I got up.
Mr and Mrs Renfrew left their old abode
and started for Minnesota.
Sun. Mar. 13 - 1887.
I've read all his letters today: I've read them
again and again.
Ah! Will my boy!
"I think of thee when the calm twilight hour
Sheds a delightful influence o'er the mind;
When the lone heart, cheered by the magic power
Of thought, a sweet companionship can find.
I think of thee when weary, broken hearted;
My spirit longs to quit this changing sphere;
I think of the hour when last we parted,
The sacred spot to memory so dear.
And when the lamp of life is slowly waning,
When time is verging to eternity -
When the slow beating pulse is feebly straining, -
Dear friend my thought will turn to thee."
193
Mon. Mar. 14th 1887.
I washed and ironed: - worked hard all day and
am awfully tired to night.
Edd is full of "Old Nick" and consequently
we get stirred up once or twice in a while.
Tues. Mar. 15 -
I took leave of Fairlee; - "the boy" was at the
station, busily engaged with some work on the
platform as the train pulled out: O how I
longed to say a few words to him! But it was
not to be; so with a big lump in my throat
the scene changes: Edd and I arrived at Auburn
in due time: - found the folks not in the
best of health.
Wed. Mar 16.
Edd and I drove to Manchester this after noon;
Called on cousin Myra Haines and did a
little shopping: went to Auburn depot and got
the dog, "Hunter."
Dominoes and music for evening entertainment.
194
Auburn.
Thurs. Mar. 17 - 1887
I have been sewing: Aunt Mercy, Delia and
I hve been relating facts and fancies,
amusing anecdotes, etc.. - as women are said
to do when by them selves.
Sun. Mar. 20th
Edd and I inspected the garret and its contents
of relics and antiques, and stuffed our selves
with butternuts, pop-corn and apples.
I wrote a letter home and one to Carrie also,
and went to prayer meeting this evening with
Cluer, Delia and Ethel.
Tues. Mar. 22nd
Tried my skill in the culinary art: made six
pies and doughnuts, and had as good success
as I dared expect.
Ironed some collars and cuffs.
Thurs. Mar 24
Finished my blue seersucker gingham dress; -
made an apron and nearly made a corset
cover.
195
Fri. Mar. 25th 1887.
I have finished all my sewing: This after noon
I helped Aunt Mercy tie a comforter, and knitted
lace: This evening Cluer, Delia, Ethel, Edd and
myself went to a dramatic entertainment at
the village - and then came a dance to wind
up with: and I remained to talk with Edd
after we got back to the house.
"The mistakes of my life have been many."
Sat. Mar. 26
I went with Edd to Manchester: did some
shopping - took dinner with Myra: then we
called on George's and James' people: got back
to Auburn just after dark, cold, tired and
hungry.
Tues. Mar. 29th
I cut and fitted my red cambric dress.
Everett Goodwin drove down for me and I
went home with him.
Jane took me to a play called "The Rag Baby."
Wed. Mar. 30.
I did some sewing - and went on a shopping
excursion with Jane and Minnie.
Cousin Fred entertained me this evening (to Ev's despair).
196
Thurs. Mar. 31 - 1887
Spent the fore noon at Jims: then Minnie
went with me to "Becks," and here I am.
Have been knitting lace.
Fri. Apr. 1st 1887.
Edd called. Beck and I visited a conservatory,
and afterward called at Jims'.
Went to Auburn on the 4-25 P.M. train.
Mon. Apr. 4
Helped about the washing. This afternoon Edd
and I went for a ride toward Chester as
far as Halls.
Wed. Apr. 6 - 1887.
Went to the city with Cluer and George.
Minnie Prime went with me to Mrs Martha
M. Stockbridge's where I engaged to to [do] house
work at three dollars per. week.
Thurs. Apr. 7
Have been quite busy: among other things
I made and put up thirty-three boxes of stove
polish for Edd, and sewed on my dress
a while.
197
Tues. Apr. 12 - 1887.
Aunt Mercy carried me to the city: we did
some shopping and called on Myra.
I commenced work for Mrs Stockbridge: there are
in the family beside her self, her son Edward E.,
Perley G. Riddle, Mary Severance and
Went over to Minnie Primes' this after noon.
Wed. Apr. 13 -
Made two pies and ironed most of the clothes.
Went shopping this after noon with Mrs S.
Kept castle alone this evening, excepting a very
pleasant half hour with Mr Brown.
Wrote some letters.
Thurs. Apr 14
Finished the ironing and made two pies.
Edd called and brought me three letters - one of
which contained to sad news of the death of Emma
Celly and of my good little friend, Dana J. Jeffords.
I went down town early in the after noon.
There is a housefull of company.
198
Manchester,
Friday Apr. 15th 1887,
Have been taking lessons in cooking: made two
kinds of pies and doughnuts and bread.
Helped Mrs S. tie a comforter this after noon.
Performed various small duties this evening.
It commenced to rain late in the day.
Sat. Apr. 16
Have been very busy baking, mopping, and
doing the usual Saturday work.
Did some sewing after noon and evening.
Sun. Apr. 17 -
Attended religious services at the Skating Rink
with Mrs S.
Spent the evening alone - writing to Rosa and
Mary Gaffield.
Sun. Apr. 24th
A beautiful day: I went for a drive to Goffstown
with Mrs Stockbridge and Edward.
Sunday May 1st
Avery [A very] warm, lazy day. Edd called and brought me
some Mayflowers. Went with Mrs S. to the Rink
to evening meeting: had the pleasure of hearing Peter
Billhorn sing.
199
Sat. May 7 - 1887.
Have been very busy about the house - went to
Auburn on the afternoon train.
Sunday May 8th
Edd and I went May-flowering - then he brought
me back to the city this after-noon.
This evening Mrs S. and I went to the Rink to
hear the Evangelists Schiverea and Billhorn.
Fri. May 13th
Sweeping day: sewed after noon: Myra Haines called.
The mail brought me my dear little dead bird Philip.
I guess I "bawled" when I opened that box - for I
thought it was a box of flowers from home.
But I buried the little darling under an
apple tree in the yard.
"Hopes, what are they? Beads of morning
Strung on slender blades of grass,
Or a spiders' web adorning
In a straight and dangerous pass."
200
Manchester
Sun. May 22nd 1887
Edd made a short call. This evening Mrs S.
and I went to meeting at the First Baptist
church and afterward down to the Rink.
Sat. June 18.
Edd came up and went with me to have some
teeth extracted. I took ether, and came home
minus three "achers."
Sun. June 19
Went with Mrs S. to the First Baptist church:
it has been repaired and looks fine: This was
Rev. Mr Mc Allisters' first Sabbath here: We also went
again in the evening, it being childrens Sunday,
about thirty-five particitating in the exercises.
We afterward went down to the Rink.
Wed. June 22nd
Ed. Stockbridge bade us farewell and started
for Boston to work.
Fri Jun 24th
Have not felt well to day, but went over to Grays
store on an errand: called to see Myra; Delia and
Ethel were there.
201
Sun. June 26 - 1887.
Attended morning service at the Unitarian church
on Beech St. It was childrens' day: - three babies
were christened.
This after noon I went with Mrs. Stockbridge, and Miss
Severance to the Valley cemetery; a beautiful spot.
I completed the day by attending evening service at
the Lowell St. Universalist church: it being Rose Sunday:
There were flowers and birds - recitations, and flute, cornet
and violin solos.
Sun. July 3rd
Attended services at the First Congregational church
on Hanover St. this morning; and this evening to the
Westminster Presbyterian: the subject of the discourse
at the latter was Romanism.
Called on Myra Haines.
Mon. July 4th 1887.
I did a big washing: Apparently everybody else has cele-
brated the day in regulation fashion, if cannon, fire-
crackers, tin horns and fire works are on indication.
Just at night I went over to Minnie Primes'.
The day brings back the memory of just a year
ago! I wonder if he remembers!
202
Manchester.
Sun. July 10 - 1887.
Went to St Paul's Methodist Episcopal church this morning.
Called at Geo. Goodwins' and just a minute at Jims'.
Fri. July 15
Went down on Concord Square to night to hear the
City Band Concert: Wrote to Mattie Granger.
Sat. July 16 -
Spent the evening at A.H. Gray's, and since my return
it has begun to rain.
"Ay, now it comes with its first drops glancing about
the leaves like snatches of faint music."
Sunday July 17 -
Attended morning service at the First Free- Baptist
church with Mary Severance: At three went to vesper
service at St. Joseph's Cathedral, and on my return
took a birdseye view of the interior of St Anne's.
A six went to the Merrimack St, Baptist.
Tues July 19 -
Finished work for Mrs Stockbridge - after fourteen weeks
of service.
203
Wed. July 20 - 1887.
Off duty. Have been dodging about in all directions:
Called on Minnie, Jane and Beck.
To night Mr Robert Stevens came after me - and I
find myself amid a merry group of strangers.
Kate and Grace Carpenter, "Lou" and Walter Mc Alpine,
Clarence and Florence Stevens, Sara Spofford; with
Mr and Mrs Stevens and the hired man, John Bannan
make a full house.
Thurs. July 21 -
Commenced work for Mrs Robt. Irving Stevens.
Mrs Le Bosquet with Jessie and Charlie came visiting,
some of the rest of the crowd went away.
Sun. July 24th
Went to St. Pauls' M.E. church with members of the
family. Have felt lonely - No, I can never forget:
When Sunday night comes, the memory of Sundays
long past come to mind. I wonder if he is happy!
"The fate that crushes all the sweetest pleasures here
Turned hope's glad music to a sigh, its glory to a tear.
It stepped between us; ah, it mocked the love it could not kill;
It bade me in its fury live, and love, and suffer still."
204
Manchester.
Wed. July 27 - 1887.
"The rain is o'er - How dense and bright
You pearly clouds reposing lie!
Cloud above cloud, a gloriou sight,
Contrasting with the dark blue sky!
In grateful silence earth receives
The general blessing; fresh and fair,
Each flower expands its little leaves,
As glad the common joy to share.
The softened sunbeams pour around
A fairy light, uncertain, pale;
The wind blows cool; the scented ground
Is breathing odors on the gale."
Sunday - July 31 -
Mrs Stevens and I went to the Centre to attend
services at the first meeting house built in Manchester,
But for the fact that we were kept awake by a genuine
camp meeting screamer I suspect we might have slunk
away to Dreamland, and perchance have sported with
the antiquated ghost of Rip Van Winkle, so extremely
stupefying seemed the atmosphere.
205
Thurs. Aug. 4th 1887.
Mrs Hersey and the babies. Mrs Stevens and myself
drove down to the Valley Cemetery, and from there
to Pine Grove Cemetery where there is the most
beautiful monument I have ever seen.
It is of white marble, made in Germany, representing
a worm eaten stump, on which an ivy vine trails,
and with beautiful ferns clustered here and there,
and at its base lies a beautiful lamb.
Sat. Aug. 6 1887.
I received a letter from home to day saying Father
is failing and I am wanted there.
Sun. Aug. 7 -
A housefull of company here.
Sara Spofford and I drove to Auburn with Mr
Stevens' horse: Called at Delia's and Aunt Mercy's.
Monday Aug 8th 1887,
I did the washing, then packed my trunks and
left Manchester: Fell in with the Prescotts' on the
way. On arriving at Fairlee I was nearly taken off
my feet to hear that Will was in town: but having
been to muster, he tarried here - and sure enough
206
we meet again: He kindly drove out home with
me: After all these long weary weeks that I have
so sadly missed him, I seem to feel such a restraint
the minute I get with him again: he seems distant
and changed some how! Oh why cannot I be happy
either with or without him?
Found Ed Davis at the house on my arrival.
Tues. Aug 9th 1887,
Have been very busy all day.
Will called tonight and took me for a short drive,
which I think did us both good: he gave me a fine
photograph of himself, which I dearly prize:
I am so glad to see a great improvement in him
in many ways: yet I could not undo the stiff,
rigid feeling that takes posession of me some times,
and to night I know that I said some thing that
may have hurt his feelings - oh! but I could'nt
help it: yet - how many times I've longed for one
word from him! one little caress as of old! Ay. Felt
it would be sweet to die for him! (
Yet it seems as if the very blood froze in my veins
some times; it was not always so: - but that cruel
thing he did once - hurt more than he ever dreamed
207
Sat. Aug 13 - 1887.
Father has been worse - we thought him dying once.
John Jenks is here to care for him to night.
Sun. Aug. 14 -
There has been a lot of visitors and callers here today:
including Elroy Davis, Harry Kelley, Mr & Mrs Baldwin,
Mrs Bugbee, Mr & Mrs Rice, Mr & Mrs Hammond,
Annie Wise, Eliza Chamberlin, Abbie McLane and
John Clement.
Mon. Aug. 15
Visitors to day include Merritt and France Davis, George
Kennedy, Warren, Ada and Gracie Davis and Rev.
Alfred J. Hough.
Wed. Aug. 17
Such busy days! Nine of us in family as we have
just now nine in family - including three hired men: -
Ed Freeman, Geo. Lufkin and Chas. Shumway.
Ed Davis, Aunt Olive and Amy Worthen called.
Sat. Aug 20
John and Mary Paige here to day.
208
Fairlee.
Sunday Aug. 21st 1887.
Ive made a business of cremating rubbish from the
shed and kitchen. Ada, Warren and Harry Davis
were here.
Mon; Aug. 21st [22nd]
I got time beside doing the house work to make
a sheet and trim a shade hat for myself.
Sat. Aug. 27
I drove down to Mattie Grangers and we went to
Orford to see Mrs Carr to "find out some thing about
myself" but failed.
Then we went for a little ride, and I soon returned
home, but not until I had procured some sand-
paper for Frank Morris.
Sun. Aug. 28th
The visitors here today were Warren and Ed Davis,
Geo. Sampson, Jennie Moore, Harry Kelley, and Mr
Darling.
I had my first boat ride of the season, with Harry
Kelley, going to West Point, and stopping at Glen Falls
House where we participated in ice cream, cake,
peanuts, candy, etc. I visited the Falls with Minnie
Morris. It seems nice to see Harry again and run about
209
with him as in days long past when I was a
school girl, - but my heart was heavy, and a big
lump comes in my throat for my last visit to
Glen Falls comes to mind so vividly: It was on
Sept. 5th last, Will and I were so happy that
day together;
"Talk of ghosts! Sweet memories may haunt the
heart with as bitter anguish and terror as ever
blue lighted, softly stealing murdered souls."
Mon. Aug. 29 -
Went down town to night, because I did'nt know
what else to do with myself: Took Carrie along
and she came home with me: We were quite
docile for us, going to bed and to sleep just like
old folks.
Thurs. Sept 1st
Went down town, got a package of Seaver Star
soap by express. Also went to Orford to have Abbie
Stetson drape my satten skirt: stopped to play
by the wayside coming home and chatted with
Carrie and Anna Smith.
210
September, 1887.
"Once more the liberal year laughs out,
O'er richer stores than gems or gold;
Once more with harvest song and shout
Is nature's bloodless triumph told.
Our common mother rests and sings
Like Ruth, among her garnered sheaves;
Her lap is full of goodly things;
Her brow is bright with Autumn leaves:
O favors every year made new!
O gifts with rain and sunshine sent!
The bounty overruns our due,
The fullness shames our discontent.
We shut our eyes, the flowers bloom on:
We murmur, but the corn ears fill;
We choose the shadow, but the sun
That casts it, shines behind us still."
Fri. Sept 2nd 1887.
Jim and I had a boat ride after the shower, going to
Glen Falls House to a dance: Celley and Dayton
furnished music. Harry Kelley took me to supper.
Quite a good many Bradford people were there: there
was a general good time for all.
We got home at twenty minutes of three o'clock.
211
Sun. Sept 4 - 1887.
John started for Montpelier. Warren and Ada drove
down and Rosa and I went with them to West
Point, and from there to the silver cascade and falls,
also up where the old Gulf Bridge used to be.
Mr Bracy kindly took us back to the head of the
lake in his little steamer Nettie.
I have written to Mrs Stockbridge.
Mon. Sept. 5th
School commenced with Eliza Chamberlin teacher.
She and I went to West Point after four o'clock.
"I've buried the past deep down in my heart,
Where near it fond memory reposes;
Yet often my senses are roused with a start,
By a faint, distant perfume of roses.
It awakens old memories, calls up the past,
Its lights and its shadows discloses;
But the dream is a short one, such dreams
do not last,
And it leaves me but ashes of roses."
Just a year ago!
Tues. Sept 6.
Eliza and I went trolling and got two pickerel that
weighed almost five pounds. Afterward I drove down town.
212
Wednesday Sept. 7 - 1887.
John and I attended Jane Davis' funeral.
John Jenks and Lucy Lord were married today.
Thursday Sept. 8th 1887.
I have been to Orford and called on Aunt Sylvia.
Fri. Sept. 9.
Minnie Morris accompanied me to North Thetford
on a peddling expedition; sold nine boxes of soap.
Had dinner at Payson Clay's.
Also went over the river to Abbie Stetson's and got
my brown basque.
Sunday Sept. 18 - 1887.
How the events of two years ago come to mind!
Alas! our memories may retrace
Each circumstance of time and place,
Season and scene come back again,
And outward things unchanged remain.
The rest we cannot reinstate:
Our selves we cannot re-create,
Nor set our souls to the same key
Of the remembered harmony.
213
Tues. Sept 20 - 1887.
Went to Bradford on business and took dinner at
Warren S. Davis.
Wed. Sept. 21 -
Went to Bradford on a peddling trip, which was
quite successful. Had dinner at John Prescott's
with Mrs Pierce and Mary Ellen Fulton.
Sunday Sept. 25th
This day my bright, winsome, sweet-faced friend and
school-mate, Annie F. Wise, passed from this life - a
victim of typhoid fever.
She tarried here in our midst 21 yrs., 7 mo., 7 days:
such a short life! but in that time she has made
many warm friends who sincerely mourn her loss.
"The life of mortal breath is but a suburb
of the life elysian, whose portal we call death."
Tues. Sept. 27 -
Uncle James, Aunt Sarah and cousin Mattie came
this fore noon.
214
Wed. Sept 28th 1887.
Aunt Sarah and Uncle James went away this morn-
ing. Mattie and I went to Bradford to the fair
in the afternoon and "fared" rather poorly.
We came across Elroy and hung onto him most
of the time: went for a drive up where "milkweeds
and butternuts are liable to grow later on"
Thurs. Sept. 29 -
Matt and I went down town - and drove up
to West Point to see how Mr Kenney's Studio is
progressing; on our return from there had an
errand at the express office and there became
acquainted with some of the good qualities of
Greene's Almanac, and other articles.
October.
Changing, fading, falling, flying
From the homes that gave them birth
Autumn leaves in beauty dying,
Seek the mother breast of earth."
215
Sun. Oct 2nd 1887.
Barza Adams and Mr A.W. Kenney called.
John, Mattie and I went to West Point: I returned
with Jim, and I did not feel equal to going further.
Thurs. Oct. 6 -
Mat and I went to Haverhill "peddling." It might
be pleasant to recall the adventures of "Miss Maude
Everette and Miss Maggie Phillips" who, in their
own estimation, paralyzed the little peddler,
dazed the clerks, Mr Paige and friend; the "kiss-
me-quick on a load of straw and various
other things which we retain in the pleasant
back-ground of recollections, with no special
desire to advance them to the fore-ground.
"The maxim "Know thyself" does not suffice:
Know others! - know them well -
Thats my advice."
Fri. Oct 7 -
Mattie and I went down town this afternoon, and
John went with us to a dance at Granger's to-
night. Quite a pleasant time.
Frank and "Icabod" gave us special entertainment
a portion of the time.
216
Sun. Oct 9th 1887.
Elroy and Harry came about noon time: Toward
night "the boys" took Matt and me for a boat-ride
to West Point: after our return John brought
Minnie out a while.
"Imagination" - oh! yes! I just imagined it was
Matt." but what a surprise when I discovered
the difference."
Well this little interview with Elroy is not without
a shade of sadness. I am sorry indeed to send
Roy home in an unhappy and disappointed state
of mind, but I find nothing deeper than friendship
in my feelings for him: Ah. my heart is dead!
The recollection of the one whose lightest word was
an elixer to my soul - is still sacred: oh! Will! you
will never know how lonely and sad my journey
of life without you!
"I cannot sleep! my fervid brain
Calls up the vanished Past again,
And throws its misty splendors deep
Into the pallid realm of sleep."
217
Tues Oct. 11 - 1887.
John, Mattie and visited Houghton's big barn at Orford.
This evening we called on Olin and family.
Wed. Oct. 12 -
Elroy and Harry came this evening and took
"us girls" for a drive: had single teams:- a pleas-
and time, and on the whole what some people
would consider quite a racket in a quiet way.
Sat. Oct 15
Mattie went home.
Fri. Oct 21st
Aunt Mercy Goodwin came.
Mon. Oct 24
Aunt Mercy and I went to Bradford this
after noon. I went over to Bradford station with
Harry Kelley on business.
Tues. Oct. 25
I carried Aunt Mercy to the station: had
a bit of conversation with Selah.
218
Mon. Oct. 31st 1887.
Oh what a day this has been. I wonder if one
other remembers the events of a year ago.
How many, many weary hours I've spent in tears
since then! I'm so lonely! so sick of trying to be
any body. Knowing little and caring less where
Fate may take me. Tis so hard to realize
that all things are for the best in this seem-
ingly hap-hazard world.
Tues. Nov. 1st
John and I had a misunderstanding and
a wrangle: I have felt so completely down-
hearted and discouraged I knew not what to
do with myself. I wanted only to be under
the sod. Why don't God take pity on me
and let me die?
We chewed over the faults and virtues of that
dear old friend of mine - and after a long
talk we became better reconciled to each others'
views: but I have cried until my head feels
double size and I am sick all over.
219
Tues. Nov. 8 - 1887.
Father had a bad turn this morning - we sent for
neighbors; Mr & Mrs Renfrew and Mrs Freeman came
in. Merritt, Emma and Walter Davis and Mr Cotton
called. Warren Davis and George Lufkin here to night.
Wed. Nov. 9th
I was awfully sick all night and did not get
up until past noon.
Mrs Freeman came to help mother this after noon.
Eliza called: I had a letter from Miss Manning
of Manchester.
Fri. Nov. 11
F. M. Davis of Springfield came. Mr Rugg is also
here with father.
Sun. Nov. 13
Spent the evening at Mrs Freeman's by invitation
of my cousin Murray: He is very devoted to
his little cousin these days. bah: will such
things never quit pursuit of me?
220
Mon. Nov. 14th 1887.
Murray returned to Springfield: I drove to North Thetford
station with him: - a memorable ride surely.
Before I got home I received an invitation from
a sleek young fellow whose abiding place just
now, is in our town, to attend a musicale
at Bradford on the 18th but I declined as
is my custom of late: A successor to my dear
old Will in the tin business, and doubtless I
would have ridden after faithful old Gyp - had
I gone - but it would only serve as a
reminder of those days when I was happy.
Wed. Nov. 23rd 1887.
Father passed away this morning.
Sat. Nov. 26 -
Murray went away this morning and Uncle
Plum and Etta went this after noon, and so
tonight we sit alone.
Sun. Nov. 27
Jim, Rosa and I attended church.
221
Mon. Dec 5th 1887.
School commenced with Mary Kibbey as teacher; -
she boards here this week.
Mon. Dec 26 -
It has snowed some and the air is quite sharp,
but not sufficiently so to prevent my good cousin
Elroy and I from enjoying a fine drive with
his admirable gray colt, Dick; - we drove to
Orford and Fairlee and made out a complete
day - until twelve o'clock in a variety of ways.
Tues. Dec 27
The folks were all away the greater part of the
day and left Elroy and I to keep house:
We did that on another occasion, at his house
several years ago: its quite fun to play house-
keeping at our size and ages, but on this
occasion there has been an inter-mingling of
seriousness: I know I might do worse than
to continue to play housekeeping with Roy - but -
how can I ever go through such a farce when
memory ever recalls the image of another who
must ever be my hero.?
222
Sunday Jan 1st 1888.
At home, Fairlee, Vt.
Tues. Jan 3rd 1888.
Elroy came and caught me at the wash-tub, and in
consequence of his coming he has been a more-or-
less willing victim of my abuse and tyrrany the
remainder of the day.
I received several letters, among them one from Will,
expressing his gratitude for my interest in his welfare
in days gone by: and such a dear missive! bringing
me the sweet message of sincere regard and the
assurance of self respect and high aim on his part.
I cried for joy even in the presence of a would-be
lover.
Abbie and James Mc Lane spent the evening with us.
also Nichols, Morris and Richardson called - being
on a skating expedition.
Wed. Jan 4th
I tormented Roy all the forenoon, then he condecended
like a good boy, to let me ride after Dick, all tucked
in among those luxurious robes, in in [sic] close prox-
imity to that nice warm fur coat: called with
me to see Mary Gaffield, and went shopping with
me. After a time he departed for his abode and
223
John having mean time arrived, he and I made
abbreviated calls at Warren and Merritt Davis; Took
tea at Aunt Olive's (Ed was there): afterward called
to see Cora Kelley and finished the evening at
Sampson's. Mr and Mrs Ellis Shumway and Jennie
Moore were there: Arrived home about mid night.
This is Will's twenty-first birth day.
Thurs. Jan 5th
George Mc Indoe came over and gave his orders -
was so disappointed he actually bawled, when he
found Father made a will and he could not
crowd Mother out of house and home.
Eliza Chamberlin called.
John and I spent the evening at R.A. Morris's.
Sat. Jan 7th
Packed my trunk and bade adieu to home and friends,
and started for Orange, Mass. - a long and lonely
journey for a rainy day. While waiting an hour
at White River I saw Dick Davis a few minutes.
Reached Greenfield at a quarter of five; - waited
there until six, and reached my destination at
seven o'clock. Mr Frank Porter and Miss Maude
Smith met me at station.
Fare Fairlee to Greenfield $3.95 from Greenfield to Orange $.55
224
Sun. Jan 8th 1888.
Orange, Mass., Have been making observations and
been busy in learning the ways of this establishment.
The boarders are Mr & Mrs Chas. Bradford; Mr & Mrs
Will Smith; Frank Porter; John Adams; Frank Pearson;
Sidney Taylor, and two Kellehon brothers: also Mr & Mrs
James Dudley take dinners here with now and then
a transient.
Spent the evening writing letters home and to
Elroy.
Mon. Jan. 9th
Did a washing and was also otherwise busy.
Wrote to Will.
Tues. Jan 10 -
My twenty-second birth-day, and I've been so
busy I have hardly thought of it, but Father
Time is sure to remember the check mark for a
year just gone.
"Swiftly our pleasures glide away,
Our hearts recall the distant day
With many sighs;
The moments that are speeding fast
We heed not, but the past, - the past
More highly prize."
225
Wednesday Jan 11 - 1888.
This evening I went with Maude, Miss Lane and Mr
Adams to the Armory - said to be the finest in
Massachusetts.
Sun. Jan 15
Went with Maude to the Congregational Church this
morning: Its fine skating on the side walks and
with the rain it is some what difficult walking
Tues. Jan 17
More cold this fore noon and more snow this after
noon: tis now several degrees below "Cicero" according
to Will Smiths version.
Among other accomplishments, I made fourteen pies.
Sat. Jan 21st
Spent the evening with Mr Porter at his sister's,
Mrs William Thayer:- a pleasant occasion.
Tues. Jan 24th
One of the days that every thing goes wrong, and
I have felt ready to collapse: made fifteen pies, and
ironed the colored clothes and flannels beside my
other duties: Had the ill luck to burn my hand
quite seriously. Received a letter from Will.
226
Wed. Jan 25th 1888.
Dr Maybee put in an appearance. Frank Pearson
and I clashed! guess the fire flew just a little bit: he
thinks he is smart: I think he is a d__ __.
Simply a difference of opinion.
Thurs. Jan 26.
One of my tired days, and I feel as sober as
an old truck horse.
There is no love lost between Pearson and me to day
I guess - but he tried the butter method and so very
kindly asked the privilege of being my escort to
the state inspection at the Armory this evening.
Nit!!!
Thurs. Feb. 9th
Spent the evening with Mr & Mrs Smith at their
room: Mr Porter was also there.
Found my self "locked out" when I returned about ten
o'clock: Perhaps there was'nt a few remarks made
about it before I went to bed! Molly's Irish was
up; thats all.
227
Orange, Mass.
Friday Feb. 10th 1888.
Finished work for Mrs Dudley at noon and entered
the employ of Jay B. Reynolds as skiver, with Mattie
O'Malley as my instructor.
Took up my abode with Mr and Mrs Nathan Cate,
on West Main St.,
Mr Porter very kindly took me to the Masonic
Ball Concert at Putnam Opera House: Music by
Reeve's orchestra of Providence.
Sat. Feb. 11
Have been learning the mysteries of my newly
adopted profession and to night Mattie has left
me to proceed alone in future.
Mr Cooper is foreman of my room: I the only girl
among seventeen men. What a cinch!
At my boarding place are Edith Kelsow, Belle
Field, Carrie Bolster, Emma Bradford and Fred
Dewey.
Sun. Feb. 12
Attended church with Mrs Cate. Wrote some letters.
Sun. Feb. 19
Went to church with Mrs Cate.
228
Thurs. Mar. 1 - 1888.
Pay day. I received $5.00 gratis - with $1.13 for work.
Sunday, March 4 - 1888.
I accomplished the task of writing five letters -
Carrie, Mary Luvia, Elroy, Mrs Stockbridge and
Sara Spofford bring the victims of my "spatter work".
Tuesday March 6th
"We girls" strolled up town this evening: - I received
letters from Will, Mary Luvia and Mother.
Thurs. March 8th
Another pay day: I received four dollars and a half.
Belle Field and I spent the evening at the home
of Mrs Josie Blicq. Nora O'Connor, Kate and
Jerry Dugan were also there.
Sunday, March 11 -
Wrote two letters: Visited at Mrs Thayer's this after-
noon: - Mamie Staples was there, and if ever I
was amused it was to hear her relate her
experiences and expectations.
Returned to my boarding place about nine o'clock
in the evening - Mr Porter as escort.
229
Monday March 12 - 1888.
A memorable day indeed. Found it snowing when
we awoke this morning, and the storm increased
all day, accompanied by a cutting wind which
piled the snow in huge drifts: Late in the
after noon Mr Reynold's said the girls had best go
home: Belle Field and I were the first to venture
out. Such an experience I hope never to have again.
We simply had to wade, or climb through that mass
of snow waist deep - while the blizzard like air
seemed to almost freeze our lungs: After a severe
struggle we finally reached the house as wet as rats
and the snow as it fell froze to our hair. We could
not have gone much further: Belle gave up once
and sat down and cried.
I had an accident at shop today, cutting my right
wrist quite severely on my skiving machine.
Tues. Mar 13 -
Paths were shoveled and the roads broken about eleven
o'clock - so I sewed on my jacket mean time,
we managed to get to the shop this after noon.
Mr Reynolds had the kindness to take us home with
his pair of "sorrels". The only train over the road since
three o'clock yesterday, went at 4-30 this after noon.
And still it snows, though not severe today.
230
Friday Mar 30 - 1888.
Have felt miserable and so weak I could hardly stand.
but "braced up" as fast I could to work.
Then tonight I was due at Mrs Burrills on Cheney
St to get some work she had been doing for me.
Edith accompanied me.
Sat. Mar 31 -
My face and eyes have been badly swollen to day
and I have not felt a bit good: some of the
girls declare I've got the measles and ordered me
home - but I finished my day's work.
Sunday - April 1st
Such a looking object as I saw in the looking
glass this morning - I'm as spotted as a guinea fowl.
Dr Wright was called in and said I have a case of
Dutch measles.
If that is'nt an April fool job on me!
Monday. Apr. 2nd
Just had to take life easy: feeling quite sick.
231
Tues. Apr 3rd 1888.
This forenoon I sat in Carrie Bolster's room beside a
comfortable fire, and wrote a couple of letters.
Slept most of the after noon: I have a terribly sore
throat and rheumatism; but I'm thankful to be
as well as I am: it might be worse.
Wednesday Apr 4th
Got up on schedule time but my hands and
wrists are so lame with rheumatism I could not
comb my hair, but Belle kindly came to my
assistance: I went to the shop and worked until
eleven o'clock, and came home intending to
return after noon, but did not feel equal to it
so lay on the sofa instead.
Thursday Apr 5
Fast day: a lovely morning, but soon clouded in
and ended in a pouring rain.
Holiday - we have tormented or amused each other
as the case might be. I tried to sew, but my eyes
are too weak, and I soon found a comfortable
place on the lounge.
232
Friday Apr 6 - 1888.
Got in a full days work, which gives me new
courage: and better yet, am to get one dollar
a day henceforth.
Went "over the river with Carrie this evening.
Sunday Apr 8 -
I'm feeling almost as good as new again:
This has been a lovely day: I did a bit of
mending and slicked up my room - wrote some
letters including one to Will.
Thursday April 19 -
Edith, Jennie, Carrie and myself went to Mrs Burrill's
to night, and when homeward bound the whole
bunch of us was captured by brave Johnie Franks -
who dared go home with us in spite of its being
such an extremely cool evening.
Sun. April 22nd
Mrs Clara Abbott, and Mrs Will Thayer and Willnetta
made me a pleasant call. I wrote a long letter
to mother.
Edith and I attended evening meeting at the Bap-
tist church, and afterward enjoyed the "starry night
for a ramble"
233
Wednesday April 25th 1888.
Jennie Hamilton called this evening: Ironing night
for "the girls" and we have all taken our turn at
the work.
Thurs. Apr 26 -
Edith and I went to see Uncle Tom's Cabin played.
It was fairly good, though did not come up to my
expectations: though "Topsy" was fine.
Sat. Apr 28 -
Called at Mrs Thayer's this evening: Mrs Abbott is still
there: Met Mr Mason on my way up there, so he
"happened" around just in season to walk home
with me.
Sunday Apr 29th
Jennie Hamilton, Lizzie Locks and I went after
May-flowers, and a hard jaunt we had too,
getting but few flowrs. It was very warm and
we were awfully tired when we got home.
Tonight Edith and I happened to be at corner of
Grove St., just as Mr Mason was walking there too,
so the three of us promenaded about town awhile
and then sat on the steps until - well bed
time any way.
234
Tues. May 1st 1888.
To night Mr Mason took me to see Flavia Colie
and Company play "Separated."
Thurs. May 3rd
Went with Mr M. to see the play called "Arrah Na Pogue."
Friday May 4th -
Went with "Fred" to see the Pearl of Savoy.
Sun. May 6 -
This has been "my busy day."
At 6-30 Fred came - we went for a walk, after ward
occupied the sitting room.
Tuesday May 8th -
Edith and I went up town tonight: I received a
box of maple sugar from home.
Tis sweet to have a taste of old Vermont once more.
Wed. May 16
o Was sick and had to leave the shop a while to day.
To night went for a drive to Athol with Fred, and
such a time: I thought we would never get home.
I was sick and of course we got on the wrong
road and oh dear!
235
Wed. May 23rd 1888.
Fred went with me to Mrs Burrill's: moved to Mrs
Cochrans'.
Thurs. May 24th
Went up town - called at Mrs Dudley's on an
errand - saw Mr Porter there. - came home and
did my ironing: so much for the occupation
of the evening.
Friday May 25
Fred and I strolled away over the river again
tonight.
Sat. May 26 -
Fred called at the house this evening.
Sun. May 27th
The girls have all been over to my room to day.
Madam Cochran gave me a "dismissal." When Fred
came we went in search of other accomoda-
tions with good success.
Mon. May 28th
Moved to William Decker's in spite of rain.
236
Wednesday May 30 - 1888.
Decoration Day. It rained hard in the morning;
Fred came about nine o'clock and we drove to
North Orange. In the after noon we drove about
town; - viewed the base-ball game and parade: then
for a drive to Wendell and Warwick.
The fruit trees are in full bloom and every thing
in nature is lovely.
Friday June 1st
Fred and I went over the river to an Indian
Circus this evening.
Sat. June 2nd
Its Fred's night as usual - we went up town.
Sunday June 3rd
Mrs Decker and I went after mountain pinks.
Got quite a good many - had a hard climb and
I tore my dress.
Fred came at five o'clock.
Tues. June 5th
Went to Athol with Fred tonight: A fine night for a
drive: we got home about twelve o'clock.
237
Monday July 2nd 1888.
Fred and I started on the seven oclock A. M. train
for Fairlee.
The day as fine as could be wished for: - the journey
was prolonged by delays at Gardner and Winchendon,
but we arrived safely at 2-45 o'clock P.M at our
destination. John met us at station.
Wednesday July 4th
Carrie spent most of the day with us - we
rusticated down in the woods by the pond -
We three (which of course included the man in
the case: twas a very quiet time - and some what
insipid - for several reasons.
We drove home with Carrie and from there
to the Pavillion Hotel at foot of the pond.
Minnie came out with John but made a brief
stay.
Sat. July 7 -
Fred and I drove down town - also visited
Houghton's Barn.
The wind blows a gale and sand flies in
a manner not common to Fairlee.
238
Sunday July 8th 1888.
John, Fred and I went up to the back pasture
to see the colts and horses.
Wed. July 11
Vacation over: the orders are "get back to work."
Consequently we proceed to do so - arriving at
Orange at seven o'clock P.M. in the midst of a
thunder shower: I never saw it rain faster
than it did during the ride from Miller's Falls
to Orange.
Monday July 16 -
Left the shop at 5-15 o'clock sick: appears to be
a spinal difficulty caused by wearing high
heeled shoes. To-night - Fred - Hood's Sarsaparilla
and some plasters.
Sunday July 22nd
I christened my new cream colored albatross
dress by wearing it walking with Fred up to
the cemetery and down South road way.
239
October 25th 1888.
Married at Bradford, Vt., by Rev A.J. Hough -
Fred A. Mason and Mary S. Davis.
Friday Jan 1st 1892
Keene, N. H. - Eagle Hotel: room 12. Living expenses
$8.25 per week with plain washing .50 per day. extra.
Fred occupation, - culler in shoe factory of C. B. Lancaster at
$13.00 per week. As for myself - I have felt miserable
for some time past and gave up work the latter part
of November.
Went down to dining room today for the first time
since my attack of "la grippe."
No snow of account yet - weather pleasant.
~ Monday Jan 4th 1892
Received a letter from mother containing the news
of our Jim's going to Montpellier Saturday last to
attend school at the Methodist Seminary.
Will Corliss' twenty-fifth birthday: - an interesting age.
Years have gone since I have had any tidings of him:
How I would love to see him now that he has
arrived at maturity.
"Life, indeed, is not the thing we planned it out ere
hope was dead: we women cannot choose or [our] lot."
240
Tues. Jan 5th 1892.
Nice clear day and Somewhat colder. I spent a
part of the morning gossiping with Mrs Pickett in her
room, then Mrs Sanborn came in and we three went
for a walk. This after noon we visited Mrs Henry Allen,
and had a very pleasant time.
The evening was spent in playing pitch with Mr & Mrs
Pickett.
Friday, Jan 8th
I have been having a general sorting, mending and
packing of clothes: - Fred's to leave and mine to take with
me: Also went up town to get a few little things
I wanted.
Mrs Sanborn, Mrs Pickett, Mrs Thurlow and children
came in for a little chat just before tea time.
This evening Mr Burrows and Mattie came up.
Matt and I called on Mr + Mrs Perley Piper up stairs,
and afterward we all played high-low-Jack until
past ten o'clock.
Sat. Jan 9th
It snowed fast all the morning. I started for home
on 11-08 o'clock train, arriving at Fairlee about 3 o'clock P.M.
Rosa and John met me at station. The family living home
just now includes Mother, Rosa and David. Elmer
Freeman comes to do the chores at the barn.
Rosa attends school in dist No 4. James at Montpelier.
241
Sun. Jan 10 - 1892.
A beautiful day - but cold. My twenty-sixth birth day.
"Much must be borne which it is hard to bear:
Much given away which it is sweet to keep.
God help us all! who need, indeed, his care,
And yet I know the Shepard loves his sheep."
Mon. Jan 11 -
Cloudy all day with flurries of snow about noon.
Rodney Smith, Mrs Winship's father, passed away about
nine o'clock A M. aged nearly eighty-eight years.
Mother has been down there most all day and remains
to night, so Rosa and I are left to "hold the fort".
I had the pleasure (?) of staying alone with David
until R__ got home from school.
John drove up: He is boarding at A. W. Paine's and
breaking colts at the Spear barn. I did some mending
for him: Wrote to Fred this evening.
Tues. Jan. 12
I worked around the house some, but it hurts me so to be
on my feet that I can't do much. I am very un-
comfortable, and it seems as if I would burst if I
were to bloat much more. I some times think there is
only one way relief will ever come.
242
Wed. Jan. 13 - 1892
David has been trying to run the house today while
the family were all away but me: he came at me
with a jack-knife - but nobody was killed - though
I guess I wore my hair "a la pompadour" for a minute
or two.
Saturday Jan 16 -
Frank Belleville came to do the barn chores: Rosa and
I drove Zip to Bradford in a sleigh, going by the new
road, (first time I have been over it,) and returning by
river road and cut across lots at the Mason or Noyes
place: we both nearly froze and got cold: after we
finally did arrive home, we took turns knocking each
other for being foolish.
Carrie came about half past three o'clock and remained
over night.
Mon. Jan 18 -
Made two loaves of graham bread. Went down town
in wagon; - carried butter and eggs to Warren's store and
did some trading for mother: carried corn to mill
and waited at Mrs. Renfrews while my friend Walter
was grinding.
Snow began falling about three oclock P. M. and con-
tinues.
243
Thurs. Jan. 21st 1892
I have been busy all day - fixed apples for pies and
cider sauce, washed dishes and cleaned out neglected
corners etc. etc.
John Clement and Elmer came and did some butchering.
This evening mother has been reading Talmage's sermon
for Jan 10th aloud this evening and then we discussed
it and other subjects.
Mon. Jan 25th
My ill feelings became more serious early this
morning: I felt sad indeed when I looked at that
tiny little specimen of humanity: just seven and
a half inches in length; and oh such pretty little
feet! but it was all over with quietly - nobody
but mother and myself being any the wiser
for what happened.
But what will become of me?
Tues. Jan 26 -
I have had a severe pain at pit of my stomach,
a hard cold, cough and sore throat, and don't feel
very well any way.
244
Wed. Jan 27 - 1892
I have felt miserable indeed today - and suffered
much pain from the lacteal glands etc etc. but was
dressed and sat up about an hour and a half
in the middle of the day.
Friday Jan 29 -
Weather more comfortable with light snow falling
nearly all day. I suffered a good deal of pain but
got up and dressed about one oclock P.M : wrote a
long letter to Fred. crept back to bed about eight
o'clock, a weary girl.
Sat. Jan 30 -
I got up about eight o'clock A.M. gave the birds a
bath and fixed them up: watered the plants and
discovered wiggly inhabitants in the soil of a pet
gloxinia, so transplanted that.
About three o'clock P.M I became suddenly aware
that the bed was the proper place for me;
so tumbled in, feeling that I weighed nearly a ton.
245
Sunday Jan 31 - 1892
It has been a beautiful sunny day.
I found myself the victim of a very severe head-ache,
and am forced to believe I went a little beyond my
strength yesterday.
I got up and dressed about noon: I fear I won't
feel well for some time to come as I find myself
in a similar condition to one time in 1889.
The consequences were severe at that time.
I retired about seven o'clock.
John drove up a few minutes, and Warren and Ada
called.
Feb. 1st
Joyous and gay as the blythsome May: -
Sparkling and bright in her garments white,
With pearls in her hair,
So radiantly fair:
So charming and chary: -
Comes to greet us again,
The glad February.
246
Wed. Feb. 3rd 1892.
Got up feeling quite fine and very ambitious:
Did a bit of ironing and quite a good deal of
mending: also stitched on the machine some, but
about dark I found myself completely tired out,
but managed to finish a letter to Fred and received
one from him.
Sunday Feb. 7 -
The thermometer pointed at sixteen below zero this
morning: Seventeen of the plants were more or less
chilled! I got furiously mad at David for his
presumptious impudence and familiarity.
John drove up here this evening: I have written
to Fred M. and to Abbie Pickett
Wed. Feb. 10
Such a beautiful, warm, sunny day! and I have
felt better than for a long time:
Charles Cutter made a brief call toward evening: -
I was much amused by his remarks and compliments.
This evening I have read one of Talmage's sermons
and mother and I talked of things long past, and
what might have been.
247
"Our lives are like a river, flowing on from day to day,
In which we fish for fortune and for fame;
And while success in some degree is sure to come our way
We're never quite contented with the game.
We're reaching after victory with wildly eager hand -
It seems to lie almost within our track.
But some thing's sure to happen, so we cannot safely land
The mammoth fish which always tumbles back."
Sunday Feb. 14 - 1892.
Eighteen degrees below zero about six o'clock this
morning: before noon time it was eighteen above; -
sunny and clear: Cloudy before night and at
eight o'clock this evening snow was falling and
the wind blows. That's fickle New England weather!
Monday Feb. 15
I felt miserable and oh! so tired! this forenoon; and
almost discouraged about ever getting strong again,
but decided to go to Bradford, and enjoyed the
beautiful day, and the drive, and was particularly
impressed with the scenery viewed from the height
of land, on the new road, looking south: so tonight
I feel better and am thankful for the sense
of sight, and other senses.
248
Saturday Feb. 20 - 1892.
Snow fell at intervals all day. I drove down town
this after noon and got some shorts, and sold some
butter for mother to Frank Pierce.
Called at Mrs Baldwin's. Lucius Sawyer came
here to do the barn chores.
I did some ironing this evening.
Sunday, Feb. 21st
There was a light fall of snow this morning, then
it was clear and thawing the rest of the day.
Mother read one of Talmage's sermons aloud.
"My creed: The glorious Lord. To trust him, love
him, and obey him is all that is required.
To that creed I invite all mankind"
T. DeWitt Talmage
Tuesday March 1st
Town meeting day. My thoughts turn back to
five years ago. Ah me! there is no forgetting.
Have been to Kate Brennan's to have a dress fitted.
Received a letter from Fred saying he has been
very sick with "grip" since last Tuesday.
249
Saturday, March 5th 1892
A beautiful day. I worked around the house the first
half of the day - then did a fair sized washing.
James arrived on the down mail train from Mont-
pelier - having a brief vacation from school.
Rosa met him at station.
Tuesday Mar 8th
I have stuck pretty closely to my sewing through
the day and evening.
One of the most beautiful snow storms I ever
beheld, occurred about half past three o;clock this
after noon: Such immense flakes! and yet the
air was so clear one could look far up among
them and watch their decent [descent].
Friday, March 11
I had a wretched night, - could not sleep: and feel
any thing but ambitious to day.
In fact I am afraid I'll never have good health again.
I helped Rosa pull candy this fore noon: and did
some ironing after noon.
250
Saturday Mar 12th - 1892.
I repaired some sheets for mother this morning; then
did a little ironing.
Carrie came over late in the afternoon and staid
to tea: she brought an apron she has been working
in cross-stitch for me.
Mother and I spent the evening at Mrs Freeman's.
"It seems not night, but paler day; so clear the
moonlight hours."
Sunday, March 13 -
I have been feeling so miserable and discouraged!
I am about convinced that I'm going down instead
of gaining: Yet why should I shrink from what
must be my fate - sooner or later? But this world
is fair and after all, life is sweet, in spite of
the heart-ache.
Wednesday Mar 16 -
Kate Emerson and Lizzie Renfrew called this after
noon: later Rosa and I went downtown and to
Orford: had a pleasant interview with Harry Merrill,
at Willards' store where he is employed.
Its fine wheeling across the pond, but was fearfully
cold facing the wind coming home.
251
Thursday March 17 - 1892.
I got cold yesterday and have neuralgia in my
neck and shoulders to day: and feel miserable.
Rosa and I spent after noon and evening at G.L.
Winships
Saturday March 19 -
A rough, stormy day: quite a little snow has fallen.
I drove down town on some errands for mother.
Zip's feet balled up badly and it was quite un-
safe traveling; however I had no serious trouble,
though some others fared worse.
Sunday March 20th
Jim and I attended church. Prof. Campbell of
Dartmouth college preached a very good sermon.
The wind blew fiercely and it was very uncom-
fortable crossing the pond.
Thursday Mar 24 -
France came from Clement's quite early this
morning and remained.
Jim was going to town so Rosa and I improved
the opportunity to visit Lillian Paine for the
purpose of getting the measles while they are popular.
Tenny spent the evening here.
252
Saturday Mar 26th 1892.
A beautiful, warm, sunny day. I did a small washing.
Went to Bradford with Jim after noon: he took the
mail train there for Montpelier - going back for his
second term of school.
I had any ammount of errands to do - and had
brief conversations with several old time friends: -
Among others' Cora Kelley, - employed at Mrs Curtis'
and Elroy at Lowd's.
Fearfully muddy every where.
John Clements' fiftieth birth-day.
Sunday, March 27th -
I have not felt as well as usual to day.
Copied a poem from the Christian Herald; - wrote
a letter to Mrs Pickett: and this evening have
amused myself with reading "The Ghost Club" - an
unfortunate episode in the life of No 5010" by
John Kendrick Bangs' in Harper's.
253
Monday March 28th 1892.
Rosa and I have been "chore" boys" this fore noon as
Lucius is sick - we made thorough work of it, and
enjoyed the beautiful day not a little.
This after noon I made some button holes: -
Spent a long evening reading "Paris" by Francois Coppie
in Harper's.
Tuesday March 29
Another beautiful sunny day. I mended some hose
and put the facing on my green satine skirt.
Mrs Winship made us an evening call while
Mr W. attended school meeting.
Wednesday Mar. 30
I did some ironing and some sewing.
Received a letter from Fred containing an express
order for ten dollars to pay my dress making bill.
Have answered his letter tonight.
Thursday March 31st
Mother and I started about noontime to go to the
street across the pond, but the ice broke and let
Zip into the water. seven neighbors soon came to the
rescue, getting her out once only to break through
again: it required the combined skill and effort
254
of all to get her out the second time, but it
was finally done and she was dragged to terra-
firma, a grateful beast, but severely chilled and
some what cut and bleeding: she was harnessed
to the wagon again and I drove her around some
to get her blood a stirring: then several of us
worked over her some hours to get her dry
and warm.
Friday April 1st 1892.
Rosa and I have had a day of tramping.
Starting about 9-30 o'clock A.M. we went down town
across the pond. I had two dresses fitted at Kate
Brennan's and we dined there, afterward went up
town and did a little shopping and called on
Mrs Martha Lucas, who is sick: Then we came
up the R.R. track to the cemetery and cut across
over the hill and the pond, arriving home about
six o'clock P.M.
Sat. Apr 2nd
I have spent most of the day fussing with John's
old mare Peggy, - she has been quite sick. John
came home from the Spear barn and gave her
some medicine.
Camille's second baby calf came and I named her
Hazel.
255
Sunday Apr 3rd 1892
Warren and Ada made us a call on their way
home from Orford, where they have been to attend
the funeral of Mr R.E. Whitcomb, the well known
musician.
Monday, April 4th
Rosa and I played "tom-boys" to day and gave
the year olds Clover and Gladys some useful
instruction: We all got a good lot of exercise out
of it. Mr Powers here on business for John and
remained over night.
Tuesday April 5th
I have been to mill with some corn: this is the
first time Zip has been driven since her "plunge"
and I'm thinking she still feels the worse for it.
The roads are very muddy.
First open air concert by our native musicians,
the frogs.
Wed. Apr 6 - 1892.
Kathleen May Gilmore married to Harry Bayley Cham-
berlin.
I did my washing and helped Rosa give bovine
Rosebud a "lesson"
Tenny Clement here this evening.
256
Thursday April 7th 1892.
I wrote a short letter to Fred: went down town
about eleven o'clock. A most beautiful day.
Stopped to visit Carrie on my way home, and
remained until after dark. Mrs Hammond,
and her sister, Mrs Sanborn, were there.
Carrie came home with me, and it follows
as the night the day, that various topics of
conversation were stirring until the "wee sma hours."
Friday April 8th
Carrie and I arose some time previous to noon.
I "went a peice" toward home with her, as in
days gone by. Such a beautiful day! snow is all
gone, and the ice in the pond is melting rapidly.
I sewed a little toward evening had a letter
from F. A. M.
Sunday April 10 -
A snow storm lasting some thing more than an
hour.
257
Monday April 11th 1892.
Rosa and I have settled down to bring "chore boys" for
a time, as Lucius finished work here this morning.
We have six cows to milk, and with the care of a
pair of oxen, three yearlings, two calves, and eight
colts and horses;
Weather is some what colder.
Tuesday Apr 12 -
I have been quite busy about the barns, - doing
some extras: - cleaned out the water tub for one
thing. Sewed a little, and spent a long evening
reading "Beulah"
Another cold, raw day.
Thursday April 14 -
o John came up, bringing a letter from Jim saying
he has measles: I have written to him and to Fred.
I am feeling rather discouraged about my self -
having salt reum so very bad - my limbs and
wrists being almost raw; my complexion rivals
that of the native inhabitants of America.
Some days I am oh! so tired! I can hardly drag
around, and my lungs feel sore. I am taking
Pierce's Discovery and using Cuticura ointment.
258
Friday April 15th 1892
Fast Day. It seemed to fall to me to dispose of
three very small cats: so do it I did. I had to
laugh to see old Bo Peep gather up all that were
left; grand children and all to her own nest
of young hopefuls.
Wednesday, April 20 -
Beside my regular occupation I have worked
over the little calf, Hazel, who has been quite
sick, but now apparently convalescent.
Did some washing.
Saturday April 23rd
I washed my print dresses and did a little
mending. Drove to the depot at three o'clock P.M.
and got Fred, not having seen him during the
last fifteen weeks.
Monday April 25
Carried Fred to the depot for the eleven o'clock
train, and he has gone back to Keene, - his
visit being brief indeed.
259
Tuesday April 26 - 1892.
I've had a variety of occupations and amusements,
among other things hunting out some young
chickens, entertaining agents, etc and then Zip
got "cast" in the barn: Yet some people think
country life monotonous! The idea!
Wednesday April 27 -
Rosa and I have given the cellar a thorough
cleaning: we tried hard to get David to help -
but his performances have been satanic in
the extreme - and we might as well have done
ourselves all we tried to get done by him and
so have saved the wear and tear of patience.
Saturday April 30
A cloudy forenoon with "spits" of snow.
Attended Frolic's "category" and murdered some
more little innocent felines.
Sunday May 1st
Mr Hill came to work so Rosa and I retire from
the position of stable boys: we have been to church,
John came up. I wrote a letter to Fred.
260
Tuesday, May 3rd 1892.
Well. - I builded a birds nest, and fussed with its
little owners: - wrote some orders for seeds, - did a
little washing, and then read several chapters in
Talmage's book: About nine o'clock P.M. there were
a few flashes of lightning followed by a nice
shower.
Wednesday, May 4
Rosa and I went down by the ledge East
of her lake, and to Mc Indoes and Smith's pastures
for may-flowers: - I got all tired out, and Rosa
got most of the flowers.
Thurs. May 5
Went down town and got some farming tools and
seed, and to Frank Pierce's for phosphate.
Friday May 6 -
Went over to Mr Hayes' and got some seed oats
of Seldon.
Mother took two young fellows from Manchester,
to board.
261
Saturday, May 7 - 1892
Went down to H. L. Rice's and got some bran: - also
got a word or two from E.C., concerning that long
lost boy. How I'd love to see his photo! Eddie tells
me he sent one home recently:
After I got home I sewed, - nearly finishing my wrapper.
Sunday May 8th
Late in the day Gene Chamberlin came for me
to go to Mrs Pratt's at Orford, and care for Bertha
Edgerly: Found her sick with peritonitis and
other troubles: - quite a high fever, and tired out:
has not slept for several nights: Dr Chase came
to see her.
Monday May 9th
Bertha got a few short naps during the night. -
has less fever today.
I went for the mail and over to Fairlee, P.Q.
Dr Chase came,
Tuesday, May 10 -
Have written to Mrs R. E. Dearborn, for Bertha, and
to Rosa: Went to post office at 10-30 o'clock A.M. and
3 oclock P.M. - also over to Fairlee the last time
Bertha gains a little: Jennie Avery Gene & Mattie Chamberlin,
Mrs Sanborn, and Mrs Dr Chase have called to see her.
262
Wednesday May 11 - 1892.
Decidedly a rainy day - one much needed.
Doctor came about eight o'clock this morning, says
Bertha is doing fine: - omitted the morphia; but
she has suffered much pain, and perspires awfully.
The usual callers have been in.
[image]
Thursday May 12 -
A rainy fore noon - and gray sky the rest of the day.
Bertha has had a hard day, but the symptoms
are favorable to speedy recovery.
Doctor came full of fun and stories.
Friday - May 13 -
Cloudy and dull weather most of the day.
Bertha gains. I went over to Fairlee at mail time,
Saw John, - got letters from Fred and Mattie.
Went out on an errand to night and strolled
over into the Orford cemetery, "while from the vale
where shadows creep, the whipporwills' soft numbers
ring at eventide": Will I ever hear a whip-poor-will
without thinking of the dear long ago?
No! I would not forget, if I could: and I could
not if I would: - whip-poor-will. I look at his
old home, wish by the stars and breath a little
prayer - and I miss him, oh! so much.
263
Saturday, May 14 - 1892.
A beautiful day: sun scorching hot but a fine breeze.
I went to P.O. and over to Fairlee at three oclock.
Packed Bertha's trunk: she has sat up twice, in all
some two and a half hours.
Jennie Avery and the Chamberlins' called.
The temper(ature) has been "exhausted" indoors - and
ssubject to sudden and violent changes.
Mrs Pratt got on her high horse, No-one much scared.
Sunday May 15 -
The day commenced and ended with a pouring
rain. I have read some; wrote to Fred and Mattie.
Bertha sat up about half the day.
Monday May 16
I have been to post office and down to the doctor's
and on other errands.
Bertha does not seem to gain as rapidly as she ought
on account of a stomach difficulty.
Had letter from Fred saying Mr Hart has work for
me: I have written Mr Hart regarding it.
264
Tuesday May 17 - 1892.
Mrs Pratt has been sick to day, and I helped her
about the housework: went over to Abbotts' drug store
in the fore noon; and this after noon went over to
the depot to send a telegram to Fred.
Bradley, son of Robert Carr, received fatal injuries
while playing ball.
Bertha and I witnessed a change in Mr Pratt's will.
Wednesday May 18 - 1892.
I got Bertha ready and accompanied her to the two
o'clock P.M. train for Boston: I got thrown from rear
platform as train started: got a good bump and shaking
up but no injuries except to my pride; it did
hurt that a little to sprawl out on the platform
before spectators: but I was thankful to escape what
might have been a calamity.
I went to Bradford on the mail train, and back
on the evening train: chatted with an acquaintance
coming south. Got a black lace hat with pink
velvet roses and black velvet ties at Mrs Curtis: and
two pretty little "pansy" pins of oxidized silver to pin
the ties with. Called at Mrs Underwoods' and at
Warren Davis'. Maggie's fourth colt was foaled.
A beautiful display of Northern lights tonight.
265
Thursday, May 19 - 1892.
I have done some washing and ironing - ripped up
a satine dress that Bertha gave me.
Rill hatched her first baby bird; - Tony being the next
most interested party in this case.
Saturday May 21st
Started for Keene on the morning train, arriving at
half past two o'clock. It rained hard all the morning.
About the time of our arrival at Charlestown a furious
snow storm appeared, continueing about one hour. Mr
Burrows called this evening and later Mr & Mrs Pickett
came in for a game of High-low-Jack.
Sunday May 22nd
A dark cloudy day. I built a birds' nest for Juno and
Tony - read some and visited with Fred, - wrote to
Mertie Cronk and to Mother.
Harry Dickinson's twenty-seventh birth day.
Monday May 23 -
A rainy morning. Once again I am back in the shop,
running a two-needle fancy foxing machine: feel lost
among so many strange faces and in the new big room.
Did three thirty cent cases today and am completely tired
out; went up street this evening on some errands.
266
Tuesday May 24th 1892.
I did four twenty-seven cent cases of foxings and feel
fairly well tonight and so some what better courage.
Mrs Pickett went with me to Miss Richardson's to get
some flowers for my shop hat: selected some red velvet
roses at one dollar.
We four played cards in Mrs Pickett's room until bed
time.
Wednesday May 25
I earned one dollar and seventeen cents to day.
This evening Mr & Mrs Sanborn, Fred and I congregated
in Mr & Mrs Pickett's room where we had quite an
interesting game of pitch.
Thursday May 26.
I vamped my first case of shoes - (I mean of ladies' shoes;):
It was worth eighteen cents, and took me the greater
part of the day to do it, but I have the credit of
having done it well.
Friday May 27 -
Vamped two cases of shoes.
This evening Mr & Mrs Pickett, Fred and I were invited
to Mr & Mrs Sanborn's room where we had an enjoyable
game of pitch.
267
Saturday, May 28 - 1892.
John put in an appearance late in the after noon.
We three went up on the street this evening.
Sunday, May 29 -
John, Fred and I went to the green house.
After dinner we went up to the reservoir, calling at
Mr Tuttles on the way: then we went across the
cemetery and called on Mr & Mrs John Freeman,
and home via Court St.,
In the evening John and I attended Episcopal services
on West St.
Monday May 30
Decoration day: Cloudy fore noon - rainy after noon.
I spent most of the fore noon cleaning my room.
Have not felt first class and rested in a horizontal
position much of the time after dinner.
Went up town tonight and got a bottle of Dana's
Sarsaparilla: then John, Fred and I called on Mattie
and Mr Burrows at City Hotel.
Tuesday May 31st
I spent some time showing John the various branches
of the shoe making trade, then my machine had a "spell"
so I've not got rich to day. John went home at eleven
o'clock. Sanborns and Picketts played pitch with us in our room.
268
Sunday June 5 - 1892.
This morning I called on Miss Lizzie Bates in No. 20.
of the Hostelry - variously known as "The Eagle", -
The Hen-hawk - "The Buggy." etc. - afterward she came
twice to our room. After supper we went in Picketts'
room, and Mr & Mrs Sanborn did the same.
Mr & Mrs Hart, Mr Burrows and Mattie and Young Spencer
H. made us a call; Later I wrote a long letter to
Rosa. Zips' colt arrived. Fred has already bargained
for him at twenty-five dollars at four months old.
Wednesday June 8 -
I earned one dollar and thirty-five cents. Charles
Jenkins and Julia Freeman called to see me at the
shop; I have a bad cold and sore throat:
This evening I started out to find a dress maker;
Called at Tuttles and Carrie went with me to a
Mrs Deane's.
Thursday, June 9 -
Heard the sad news of the death of Mr John F. Cooper
of Orange. - suicide by drowning in Miller's River.
For a long time foreman in cutting room at
J.B. Reynold's shop at Orange: during my stay there
he was always most kind to me: I cannot reconcile
my self to this tragic ending of his life.
Miss Bates and I have been up town this evening.
269
Friday June 10 - 1892
I earned one dollar and sixty two cents: my cold is worse
and I have been getting hoarse since morning and
my lungs feel sore: To night I dropped onto the sofa
as soon as I had my supper.
Fred got me some King's medicine and some whiskey.
Charles Kelsea, whom we knew at Lebanon, was in
the shop today.
Saturday, June 11th
[image] Remained in my room, fearing I would get more
cold if I went to work: Could hardly speak aloud
this morning: - filled up on whiskey and lemons
and got some better in that respect, but that old
"grip stomache ache set in.
Called Doctor Hyland in the after noon.
Miss Wolfe, Miss Bates, Mrs Sandborn and Mrs Pickett
have been in to see me.
Tonight I feel so faint and weak!
Sunday - June 12
I was completely done up this morning - took some of
King's medicine and it releived the "tightness" of my
breathing apparatus in half an hour. I felt so much
better I went down to dinner. Tom Lynch, Miss
Bates and Mrs Pickett came in. Mrs P. gave me a
lovely bouquet of June pinks.
270
Monday June 13 - 1892.
Another melting hot day. I went to the shop and
earned one dollar and thirty-five cents: I have felt
badly and my lungs have pained me but I am glad
to be able to work.
Wednesday - June 15 -
A beautiful day and quite cool. Pawnee Bill's Wild
West show is in town: Some excitement on account of it.
The gas has leaked badly at the shop and I have felt
much the worse for it.
Fred was taken sick with the popular epidemic cold.
Called Dr Hyland. I went up to the doctor's office
tonight, also got some things for Fred.
Tony and Juno are rejoicing over the hatching of
a wee birdie.
Thursday June 16
A nice day: began to rain during the evening.
Band concert tonight. I did not work quite all day.
Fred is quite sick: I went up to the doctors and
got medicine, and did some other errands for him.
Got my princess dress from Mrs Deane's.
Mr & Mrs Starkey froom Orange were here at the house
at noon time. I saw them just a few minutes.
271
Friday June 17 1892.
Very warm; - thunder; a few little showers.
I managed to stitch four cases of foxings - my lungs
have felt as if made of lead: it was hard for me
to work. Fred is feeling some better: Mr Pickett and
Mr Sanborn came in to see him.
Mr Burrows, Mattie and Miss Bates called this evening.
also Ed Stearns made us a pleasant little visit.
Maggie Shea took leave of us all at the shop.
We will miss her merry laugh and her genial
greetings.
Saturday June. 18
Fred is feeling better: so he could go and get the clean
clothes from the washer woman's to night.
I have been up town on some errands: Have got
a jumping head ache and feel stupid.
Mr & Mrs Pickett came in for a game of cards.
Sib and Elmer were married.
Sunday, June 19 -
Irwins' circus arrived in town early this morning.
Fred seems to have taken more cold, - is very hoarse.
I have not felt well and slept most of the after noon.
Sat with "the crowd" out on the roof a while at dusk.
272
Keene, N.H.
Monday June 20 - 1892.
Irwins' circus has been the principle event in town to day.
I worked like a beaver, doing six thirty cent cases grain
Polish foxings. Received a letter from Rosa telling of
numerous happenings, some of which are sad and some
otherwise. Cards in Picketts' room to-night: Mr & Mrs S.
were also there.
Tuesday June 21st
Fred is feeling better. I did foxings today to the am-
mount of $1.71. This evening Mattie and I scoured the
town for a suitable present for Maggie Shea: we finally
purchased a handsome silver card receiver, and late
in the evening, accompanied by Mr Burrows and Fred,
carried it to her: Had the pleasure of meeting her
intended husband and viewing the wedding finery.
Had a most enjoyable call: Maggie is lively and
full of fun as ever.
Wednesday June 22nd
A rainy morning - but clearing later.
Mattie and I attended Maggie's wedding at St. Bernard's
church: Bright, witty, fun-loving Maggie! May her
life ever be as happy as now.
I christened my princess dress. Fred went to work
this after noon.
Evening devoted to cards with Mr & Mrs P. and Mr & Mrs S.
273
Friday June 24 - 1892.
T.K. Burkes' circus arrived in town: I wanted very
much to attend it this evening, but it seems as if
it never rained harder than it did from about 6-30
to 7-30 o'clock, and, quoting Will Carleton, "till the earth
swam, and all creation leaked," so the three Freds
attended, while we three un-manned and forlorn females
remaind together for an hour or so, then dis-banded,
dis-robed and retired, but hardly reconciled.
Saturday, June 25.
Got up with a head-ache, and seemed on the verge
of fainting all fore noon, but after taking "phospho-
caffeine" I felt better: Though I am apparently some-
what thinner in flesh than usual, I find I weigh
one hundred and forty-nine pounds: Fred's weight 185 lbs.
I foxed four cases shoes: To night went up town with
Lizzie Bates to do a bit of shopping.
Wednesday - June 29 -
I have worked as usual - but my back has ached
severely and I feel so tired and "broke-up."
Spent the evening alone in my room, feeling broken
in heart, spirit and health: Have looked back over some
past years with a sad-pleasure in remembering happier days.
274
Sunday July 3rd 1892.
Rainy morning; - fair and hot later, with severe
thunder showers in the after noon.
Lizzie Bates, Mrs Pickett and I attended services at
First Cong. church. I was much impressed by the
discourse, from Hebrews III,12-13-14 verses.
Mr & Mrs Pickett made a Sunday call after dinner.
and later she and I had a little talk by ourselves.
I had a bad spell that seemed some thing like
heart-failure, lasting some hours, and feel miserable
since.
Monday July 4
Lizzie Bates and I went up town this morning.
I deposited twenty-one dollars in the savings bank.
Mrs Pickett and I were together nearly all the
rest of the day. We went up town twice: - had a
long, sober conversation in her room.
We had the customary twilight gathering on
the roof and later went to view the fire works
on the square.
Tuesday July 5th
Such a magnificent sunset! Deepest gray shaded
to purest white and tipped with flames of golden
light: with here and there glimpses of loveliest blue.
Beautiful, so beautiful!
275
Thursday July 7 - 1892.
Did nearly two cases of scalloped foxings at forty-eight
cents per case; got along better than I did yesterday.
Had letter from Mother tonight. Mrs Pickett, Susie Applin
and I attended band concert on the square: then
Mrs P. and I went to the "wind-up" of the electric-belt
company's free show back of City hotel: afterward
beating "the men" at a game of cards.
Friday - July 8 -
The lasters were all discharged to night. Mr & Mrs P.
called early in the evening, then Fred and I went down
to see Mattie. Mr Burrows was there and we played
high-low-Jack until ten o'clock.
Monday July 11
Finished a sixty pair case of vamps and did nearly six
cases of foxings: Feel quite well satisfied with my
day's work. To night have been on the hunt
for buffalo bugs and kept busy until ten o'clock.
Wednesday July 13 -
Have felt miserable, but worked: Just after dinner went
to Doctor Darling's office for advice. Soon as supper was
over I camped onto the sofa, too weary to do other wise.
276
Thursday July 14 - 1892
Have felt very blue and discouraged, and a good
reason why. Went up town on an errand this
evening, and on my way home met Emma Auger
and Albina Shattuck and so staid out with them
for a promenade and to hear the band play.
Saturday July 16 -
I bawled a good share of the fore noon: what work
I did was at vamping, but I have felt too ill
and wretched to accomplish much.
Miss Mary Call completed her shop labor here.
To night I went up town with Lizzie and after-
ward in Mrs Picketts' room until bed time.
There was a most magnificent display of northern
lights about ten o'clock. [image]
Sunday July 17
Mrs Pickett, Susie Applin, Lizzie Bates, Nellie Corbett
and my self attended services at St. Bernard's church.
Tuesday July 26.
Several of us arose at 3-30 A.M. to see Forepaugh's Circus unload.
Mr Pickett gave Mrs P. and myself a ride around the yard
on his engine, "Concord." Later she and I went shopping,
then she went with Fred and me to the circus: Roof gathering tonight.
277
Monday Aug. 1 - 1892.
Had a busy day at shop. Received a letter from
Rosa pertaining to money matters regarding going to
school, and, also, asking advice about needed clothing,
and as an immediate answer was requested,
I spent the evening in writing a lengthy reply.
Friday Aug. 5.
Mrs Pickett and I arose at four o'clock A.M. and
started on the excursion train at half past five
for Nantasket beach. I was awfully sick going down
but had a fine time all the same.
We particularly enjoyed the bathing and the "roller
coaster". The ride home was tedious and very
tiresome, but we finally arrived at 11-45 P.M.
Sunday August 7.
A lovely day. Mrs Pickett and I went after leaf
mold, and sat awhile in the woods and talked.
Then I "slicked up" my room, and over cast the seams
of a new shirt for Fred.
This evening Mrs P. spent an hour with me in
my room while the men sat on the roof.
278
Tuesday August 9th 1892.
My earnings at shop were one dollar and forty-five
cents: After supper I washed my windows, mirror,
and bird cage - then played cards until bed-time.
Friday August 12 -
Fred's thirty-second birth-day. A pouring rain greeted
us the first thing this morning and showers followed
during the day.
I did zig-zag white stitching on five cases of vamps
and one case of fancy forings [foxings], making one dollar
and seventy-seven cents. Have not felt a bit well,
and could not eat much all day, and am just
tired out tonight.
Saturday, August 13 -
Brother Jim came on the flyer at five o'clock: it
seems so good to have him here: this evening
he accompanied me up town to get some fruit,
then Fred went with us to the merry-go-round
on Roxbury St., We got back to the house about 9-30
and talked of home affairs and things in general
until midnight.
279
Sunday Aug. 14 - 1892.
This morning Jim and I attended services at the
methodist church with Mrs Pickett and Miss Bates.
Rev. William Eakins preached a very stirring sermon
from Rev. xx - 12.
After dinner we called on Mattie Young, then went
up to the reservoir, cemetery, etc.
John and Julia Freeman called toward night, and later,
Matt and Mr Burrows.
Monday Aug. 15
Earned $1.62. Jim amused himself about town as
best suited his fancy and started for Windsor on
the 6-24 P.M train. I hope he enjoyed the visit
as much as I have.
Received a long letter from Rosa.
Wednesday Aug 17.
Worked six hours on "carricks" and did fancy foxed
samples and other stitching, in all ammounting
to $1.92 At noon time I went up town to do a
bit of shopping: To night, after work hours I went up
town again and purchased some champagne and
"orange blossom." I have suffered a good deal of
pain again today and feel that I am "going down" rapidly,
[image]. My appetite is not good and I am wretched indeed.
280
Thursday August 18 - 1892.
A very warm day. I have felt so "played out" it
seemed as if I would have to give up, but staggered
through it and managed to earn $1.71
A bit of mental calculation shows that on every working
day I climb or decent twenty-two flights of stairs: it
makes me weary to think of it.
I went to Doctor Darlings office to night. He thinks
its no wonder I am badly off.
Friday Aug 19
Warm day - showers toward night. A weary day for
me, but I am feeling a little better to night.
Cage of seven canary birds arrived from home so
with those I had before there are now just a
dozen.
Monday, August 22nd
Have been busy as usual, but have not felt very well.
Disposed of four of my birds; Tony and Rill to
Will Wheelock of Church St., - Jessie and Bessie to Mrs
Louise Olden of Water St., Court.
Received $1.50 for Tony, - the rest were gratis.
281
Wednesday August 24th 1892
Mr Fred Pickett's thirty-fifth birth-day. I have felt awfully
sick today and especially so during afternoon, but kept
at work until I got the fancy forings [foxings] done at half past
five, then came home and went onto the bed: when
Fred came he sent for Doctor Hyland, who says I have
inflammation of the uterus: the pain has been intense.
Thursday Aug. 25
I have been more comfortable today, but an opiate given
me last night affected my heart so I felt as if in a
dead faint a long time. To night I was again suffering
much pain and Dr Dyland was telephoned to come.
Friday Aug. 26.
The morning found me extremely nervous; some thing
suggestive of chain lightning zig-zagging before my eyes
seemed almost unendurable, but the dotor [doctor] gave me some
thing that removed that very unpleasant sensation.
Saturday Aug. 27 -
Have felt much better today, and it looks as if
I might get out again soon.
Dr Hyland made his last visit, all ammounting to six
dollars. Wrote a letter to Rosa.
282
Sunday August 28 - 1892
Had a hard day; suffered much pain; had no medicine
as Doctor Hyland has gone out of town, and I suppose,
forgot to send the medicine as he promised.
Tonight I was so badly off, Fred telephoned for Doctor
Darling: He says I have nervous prostration and
other troubles.
Monday Aug. 29 -
A lovely day. I got up just before noon feeling much
better than yesterday: pain is gone, but I have little
strength or appetite: however I managed to make my
bed, wash a window and do a bit of sewing.
Dr Darling came at four oclock P.M.
Wednesday August 31 -
A cool rainy day. Have not felt as well and as I
got out of medicine sent for Doctor Darling, who came
about noon. This evening Fred has been in No 11
most of the time. I have written a letter.
About nine o'clock Dr Wesley came and after an
examination, declares my kidneys are the cause
of my ill health, and that my blood is turning
to water.
283
Monday September 5 - 1892
A cold foggy morning but fair and warm later on.
The topic of most of our conversation has been mostly
regarding the disgraceful doings of last night here in
the house: two women here from Boston attracting
numerous specimens of so called men in a manner
which reminds me of a pack of dogs: mongrels and
curs, at that.
I have written some letters, went out for a short walk,
visited with Mrs Pickett, Mrs Smith and Susie Aplin.
Seem to be gaining: I have felt guite happy today
thinking over and over a lovely dream I had last
night; but alas! only a dream.
Tuesday Sept 6 -
The day started off pleasantly with a "merry-go-
round" at the breakfast tables among the not-over-
early-risers.
Mrs Fred Sanborn returned on evening train from
her sojourn at her mother's home in Saugus, Mass.
I also percieve that Tom Lynch has returned, which
made my heart sink like lead, for I can but
expect there will be a continuation of the miserable
"doings" of last winter. "They" were out together this
evening, so I made an errand out also.
284
Wednesday, Sept. 7 - 1892.
My head has felt badly: I went down to the shop this
forenoon and up town in the after noon.
To night I got into an awful stew over Fred and Tom
being "out on a lark" as I supposed, but luckily
I said nothing, and conclude that at least a part of
it was imaginary; but I go to bed just played out
from nervousness and a pain in the vicinity of
my heart.
Thursday Sept. 8
My head felt confused as a result of dreadful dreams
a good portion of the night; I did a little mending
in morning: After dinner Fred got a team and we
went to the fair, accompanied by Mrs Sanborn and
Mrs Pickett: we afterward drove around the five-mile
square: Played pitch in No 11 this evening.
Friday Sept 9
Not from choice, but stern necessity compelled me to
return to shop work again: but if I can only feel
able to work I will not complain. have earned $1.39
Letter from Florence Howes at noon. Emma Liscord and
I had a serious, sober talk, concerning herself.
Cuttings from mother for Mrs Pickett and my self
to night: and I have been setting mine out.
285
Sunday Sept. 11 - 1892.
Mrs Pickett and I went down Emerald Street and
got loam for our plants and then transplanted some
of them: then I cared for my little feathered family
and swept my room. Mrs Sanborn came in.
Ed Stearns called this evening.
Monday Sept. 12 -
I earned only seventy-two cents - came home at three o'clock
and went down in the laundry and washed about a
dozen and a half articles; did some mending and went
up town before six o'clock.
Fred and I attended Luciers minstrel entertainment with
Mr Burrows, Mattie Young and Rena Patterson: it was
very good indeed.
Wednesday Sept. 14 -
A dark rainy day. I did nine hours work on carricks
and fixing over inland vamps at twenty cents an hour.
Went to the Chesire House this evening for an interview
with Doctor Wesley - Mrs Pickett accompanying me: glad
to note quite an improvement in my case so far.
After our return "we four" told stories in No 11.
286
Saturday, Sept 17 - 1892.
I spent the greater part of today cording a seventy-
two pair case of buttonholes; my first attempt in
that line of work and my day's pay looks like
thirty cents: Cards again tonight.
Sunday Sept. 18 -
Emma Liscord's and James L. Davis' twenty-second
birth day. A very warm afternoon for the season.
I read the Globe, fixed up my birds cages, wrote
to Jim and Rosa, and visited Mrs Pickett.
Monday Sept 19.
I commenced vamping a case of children's shoes, but
put them by to put third row stitching on two cases
of overlap shoes: another thirty cent day.
Tuesday Sept 20
Addie Liscords eighteenth birth day. I did vamping and
fancy fixings in the forenoon, and helped Mattie mend
shoes all the afternoon: earned $1.31 Feel awfully tired
tonight. Played pitch with Mr & Mrs P. and Mrs Sanbom.
I got sadly "set back"
287
Tuesday Sept. 27 - 1892.
Worked on samples, mending and odd work. To night Dan
Davis of Springfield called: I was obliged to absent myself
to see Doctor Wesley. Mrs Pickett went with me.
Doctor says I have gained remarkably since I began
his treatment: surely I cannot dispute it, for I can
now eat without distress, weigh 154 lbs, and can walk
very well: - the only hindrance is my heart.
Monday Oct. 3rd
Mattie was absent on account of illness so I've just
had to "hustle" with a big pile of mending.
Mrs. Sanborn, Mrs Pickett, Susie Aplin and I went up
on the square to see the flag-raising, torch-light
procession, etc. and afterward discusseed politics in
No 11. Received a nice letter from Jim.
Tuesday Oct 4.
I worked on samples, fancy fixings and helped Mattie.
Our new foreman, Mr Maloy, commenced his labors.
Wednesday Oct 5
I have worked on fancy fixings, samples and mending.
Felt all day as if I was going to have a shock of
paralysis, but am better tonight.
288
Keene, N. H. Thursday Oct 6 - 1892.
A beautiful frosty morning. I felt particularly ambitious,
especially the first half of the day, but worked hard at
mending shoes and feel very tired tonight.
Our new foreman showed his mettle, by sprinting
down the room to stop a quarrel between two men:
O he is all right, and I surmise things will be run
on a better plan than in the past.
Friday Oct 7.
My work has been on samples and mending.
Had the ill luck to hurt my left forefinger quite
severely: - came near cutting a button hole in it
while operating a machine.
It has pained me severely all the evening.
Saturday Oct. 8 -
Fred takes a few days vacation beginning this morning,
and started for Boston on the three o'clock P.M. train.
I have been busy doing fancy foxings and samples: as
my machine failed to do good work I had to do
the double row stitching on a single needle machine.
to night I re-arranged the contents of my bureau
drawers, and "slicked" up my room. Mrs Sanborn called.
I had the mistake of swallowing medicines given for external
use. Can't say I relished it.
289
Sunday Oct 9. 1892.
It rained early this morning. I swept my room; read
the Herald; wrote a letter to Jim; visited with Mr
and Mrs Pickett; perused fruit-tree catalogues and
sorted over and burned a lot of letters; and so another
Sunday has gone.
Monday Oct 10.
O this has been a dreadfully hard day for me.
Every thing has gone wrong if its gone at all, and
I have felt blue, cross and nervous; sick part of the time
and had a pain in my stomach.
Tonight I went in "No 11" and played cards with Mr
and Mrs. Pickett, and Mr. Mrs Sanborn.
Friday Oct 14
I stamped and centered a lot of vamps; did white
scroll stiching on some patent leather ones and
did some scalloped foxings. Played cards tonight.
Received a letter from Mother.
Monday Oct 17.
Mattie was absent from the shop on account of sickness
and her work was turned over to me. Mr Maloy returned
from a trip to Hudson: I sent an order to Green's nursery
for 8 apple, 2 plum, 2 pear trees, 4 grape vines and hydrangea
for mother. Called to see Mattie at noon and night.
290
Thursday Oct. 20 - 1892.
I had a hard days work; brought home some shoes and
worked this evening, getting them ready to put new
quarters in, and pulled the thread ends through on
a couple cases of fancy vamps.
Harry Greene called to bring Fred a mounted gray
squirrel. Mr & Mrs P. came in and played cards
with Fred.
Friday Oct 21
Columbus day; - celebrated as a legal holiday
for the first time: I felt about sick this forenoon;
but worked all day: I am just tired out with so
much mending and samples and having to hurry
so: Fred and I called to see Mattie tonight.
Saturday Oct 22nd
Stock taking; only two or three girls at work: I was
kept busy with mending and odd work.
Called to see Mattie on my way home tonight.
Monday Oct 24.
I felt at peace with the world and every thing in it,
and went to the shop in extra good spirits, but my machine
wouldn't run and my heart did seem to want to.
I was numb and bloated and blue in color and felt
291
very badly - so came home about ten o'clock and took
some hot stuff and after being rubbed awhile felt better
and resumed my work in the afternoon at vamping.
Received letters from Jim, Rosa and mother and two
bulb catalogues.
Tuesday October 25. 1892.
A lovely day! much like four years ago - the day
I became Mrs Mason. Tonight Fred went with me
to see Doctor Wesley and afterward did some errands.
Later I went in to see Mrs Sanborn who is on
the sick list.
Thursday Oct. 27
I felt just miserable this morning but went to the
shop and tried to work; however I gave it up and
came home about nine o'clock and sent for Dr Darling.
I am bloated all over, my heart is acting badly and
my throat is just awful sore: I guess I'm sick!
Mrs Sanborn worked over me most of the afternoon,
applying hot cloths to my limbs, face and neck.
Mr and Mrs Pickett, having been away on a vacation
returned tonight.
Friday Oct 28 -
All night and today I have slept about a half hour at a time.
I feel so heavy, tired and sore: oh! what perfect rest it
would be to shuffle off this mortal coil!
Kind friends are doing every thing possible for my comfort.
292
Saturday Oct. 29 - 1892.
Mrs Ward called to see me, and Mattie came in an
hour tonight. Mrs Pickett worked over me a long time
today, rubbing and bathing me.
I cannot talk very well, not only because it hurts,
but my throat is so very badly swollen: it is terribly
sore.
Sunday Oct 30.
I had a hard night: did not rest much; my heart acts
badly: my head and throat are terribly inflamed: the
worst sore throat I ever had.
Dr says it is tonsilitis developed into laryngitis and
dipthetic [diphtheritic] also. I have felt so tired today, but can
talk better and swallow more comfortably.
Emma Anger and Albnia Shattuck called about
mid-day. Company tires me so - especially when
they talk and visit much in the room.
Monday Oct 31
Had the best nights rest of all so far: am decidedly
better: doctor made his last visit, unless sent for.
Mattie called tonight. I had letters from Jim and Rosa.
293
Tuesday Nov. 1 - 1892.
The white patches have nearly gone from my throat but
it is still very badly swollen. It don't seem as if I
would ever care to eat anything - but I want to drink
constantly. I have written a letter to mother.
Emma Auger called between five and six o'clock.
Mr. and Mrs Pickett came in an hour or so this evening.
Wednesday Nov. 2nd
There was a snow storm early this morning - the weather
for the rest of the day being dark and rainy.
Rena Patterson called and brought me some lovely
carnation pinks and ferns.
I got up and dressed for the first time; after sitting
up some thing more than four hours, I tumbled
myself onto the bed, thoroughly tired out and slept
until night. Mattie called this evening.
Friday November 4.
I sat up most all day, but have to keep a shawl
around my shoulders for I feel chilly and my
voice gets hoarse if I leave it off.
I gave two of my canaries away. Sankey to Mrs Sanborn
and Pedro to Mrs Pickett.
Received a letter from mother.
294
Saturday November 5th 1892.
A rough cold day; the air was full of snow, but after
a while it cleared away and the sun came out.
I finished my red waist and made a change in
the gray skirt to be worn with it.
Mrs Sanborn and Mrs Pickett spent a portion of the
afternoon with me.
Mattie came directly from the shop and staid an
hour with me tonight.
Sunday Nov. 6
A lovely day. Mrs Pickett accompanied me to Doctor
Darling's office, and then to his house on Roxbury St.,
but we did not see him; This is the first time
I have been out since my very recent illness and
it tired me greatly, and I am so hoarse tonight
I can hardly speak, Mr & Mrs Pickett came in an
hour during the evening and then I wrote to mother.
Monday November 7.
I mended some stockings and mittens, and then
laid down as I felt very tired and it seemed
to be the most appropriate thing to do, as the day
was so very dark and rainy.
295
Tuesday November 8 - 1892.
Election day, and one of great excitement.
I did some mending, then went up to Dr Darling's
office and got some medicine for my throat.
It does not get well as it ought.
Mr Ed Stearns and Mr Bemis called this evening,
afterward Fred and I went in No 11 and had a
game or two of cards.
Wednesday November 9
I went up town this morning and got my shop
hat retrimmed at Miss Richardson's.
In the afternoon Mrs Pickett accompanied me to
see Doctor Wesley: I got a bottle of tar compound for
my throat. Later on Mrs Sanborn joined me
and we went down to the shoe factory.
During the evening Emma Auger and Albinia
Shattuck came after two of Juno's baby birds, that
I had given them.
Thursday November 10 -
We found about two inches of snow on the ground when
we awoke this morning, but a cold drizzling rain followed
and continued nearly all day. I have been mending.
Had three callers during afternoon; First Mrs Sanborn,
next Mrs Pickett, and lastly Mrs Ward. I am very tired
tonight but allowed myself to be coaxed into playing cards.
296
Friday November 11 - 1892
A bright, clear, cold day. Once again I'm into shoe-
making again: went to work about half past nine o'clock
this morning and staid the balance of the day.
Did four cases fancy fixing; tonight I am so tired
I don't know what to do with myself.
After supper I washed out a quantity of handkerchiefs,
curled my hair; and went to my nights rest.
Tuesday November 15
It was so dark and rainy we had to burn the gas
all the forenoon and a good deal of the afternoon.
Received a letter from Carrie. Cleveland elected president.
Wednesday November 16
Another dark, rainy day. To accommodate I worked
several hours at siding up congress shoes on that
miserable old Manning machine, and found out after
ward I was doing it by the piece: a profitable job
very likely, for the firm:
Thursday November 17
My earnings ammount to $2.14 for today.
Have spent the evening writing to Carrie Smith.
297
Friday November 18 - 1892.
My earnings for today were over two dollars.
Ran in to see Mrs Pickett a few minutes to night,
then Mrs Sanborn came and the gentlemen followed:
Cards for entertainment.
Monday Nov. 21.
Cloudy and cold. Earned two dollars and thirty-four
cents at the shop: doing seven cases fancy foxings
and nine of pieced tongues. Am good and tired
tonight: Mattie and Mr. Burrows called.
Tuesday Nov. 22.
The power did not start at shop until eight o'clock
and then I hustled; did eight cases foxings making a
total of two dollars and sixteen cents.
To night I went to see Doctor Wesley and had
a long talk with him; - afterward consulted
Doctor Darling, and went to the drug store.
Thursday November 24.
Thanksgiving day; - the first time I have ever been
absent from home on that occasion: we had a nice
dinner here. I was busy first half of the day washing
windows, plants and birds: After noon I did a bit of
sewing and mended some stockings: Cold day with spits of snow.
298
Friday November 25 - 1892.
To work again, and plenty of it: I feel very ambitious
to "catch up" if possible. Such a pile of it
accumulates when I get sick and stay away.
Saturday, Nov. 26 -
Work went with a rush at the shop.
To night Fred and I were playing cards in Pickett's
room, when we were surprised by a "whole bunch"
of callers; i.e. Mrs Hartz and Spencer, Mr Burrows,
Matt and Aunt Ann; - who returned with M.
from her recent visit at Wolfeboro.
Monday November 28 -
I have foxed seven cases of glove-grain and two
of kid, making the biggest days' pay I have ever
done; ammounting to two dollars and forty-three
cents. I staid just a few minutes after six to "break
up" some work. I am awfully tired to night.
Received a letter from Rosa (now at home on
vacation from school) and answered it.
Tuesday Nov. 29
I did eight cases fancy-foxings and five of pieced tongues,
ammounting to two dollars and forty-one cents.
Fred and I staid at the shop until seven oclock to break
299
up the work: I am just played out tonight, but
had to go up town and get some witch hazel for my
rheumatic shoulder; and I am suffering with a fearful
cutting pain at the small of my back.
Wednesday Nov. 30.
I have been hard at work, but took one hour out
of my day to go to see Doctor Darling: I settled all
accounts to date, paying him nine and one half dollars.
Mattie and Aunt Ann took tea with us and spent
the evening here.
Saturday Dec 3rd
I find myself pretty nearly sick; - just about as
I have expected for some days; the rheumatism has
gone all over me, and to night the pain in my
heart got so bad it was thought best to call
Doctor Prouty.
Sunday Dec 4th
According to the doctors orders, I remained in bed
today. He made his second and last visit: my
heart is not troubling me as much now - and
the rheumatic difficulty seems greatly improved.
300
Monday December 5 - 1892.
The doctor said I could sit up a part of the day; so
I've been up and dressed once more, but I feel old.
Mattie called at noon.
Tuesday December 6.
My rheumatism is very much better, but my stomach
is also very much worse, and I am very weak.
I have been up more or less but had to lie down
frequently.
Wednesday December 7 -
I went up to consult Doctor Wesley, but he absolutely
refuses to treat me any more at present, but I
got a bottle of his "honey of clover" for my stomach.
To night the cutters at the shoe factory commence
working evenings, so of course that includes Fred.
Tuesday December 13 -
I have earned one dollar and eighty-seven cents at
the shop; but I am dreadfully tired, and have got
quite a hard cold: rheumatism in my hands is
very troublesome, and I suppose its around my heart
too, as there is a good deal of pain in that vicinity.
I'm about discouraged! I don't seem to be gaining
much. To night I have made another pilgrimage
to Dr Prouty's office. Tarried at the Museum on my return
as tis a grand opening night.
301
Wednesday December 14 - 1892.
I am not rushing my work these days, having
concluded these spurts of smartness are not
lasting enough to pay.
Played cards with the Picketts' this evening.
Friday December 16 -
We found a nice Vermont pickerel waiting for us
when we came from work; I feel very weary and
too tired to go with the rest of the people to the
play: I remained alone and wrote a letter to John.
Saturday Dec 17 -
Ive been kind of lazy - but think I'm gaining
a little bit under Prouty's treatment.
We greatly enjoyed our dinner of Lake Morey pickerel.
This evening Mr & Mrs Pickett, Fred and I attended
Sawtelle's "Over the Hills to the Poor House."
Saturday December 24 -
Fred surprised me with Christmas gifts; a pair of
blue velvet slippers and a gold band ring. I gave
him a celluloid card case and a specie money purse.
We each received a linen handkerchief from Nell.
I went up town three times and down to Matties'.
Letter from Mother.
302
Keene, N.H. Eagle Hotel., Room 12.
Sunday, January 1st 1893.
Once more I stand upon the threshold of a new year.
I glance back with mingled sadness and happiness, and
with a weary sigh, launch out into the unknown future,
hoping and praying that the sunshine of peace may
illumine my way. I spent the day as follows;
In reading the Boston Sunday Globe: then called on Mr and
Mrs Sanborn: Fred and I together called on Mr & Mrs
Tom Lynch, and finished in Mr & Mrs Pickett's room.
We commenced saving our dimes.
Monday January 2nd
A dark cloudy day, and very warm for the time of year: -
it seems more like early spring.
I am glad to record myself much better of rheumatism
which has troubled me severely for several weeks past.
To day I have fancy foxed twenty dozen pairs of shoes at
nine cents per dozen and pieced two cases tongues, making
it all count up to one dollar and ninety cents.
This evening the topic for conversation has been the
"decoy females" on the river Saturday night, and what
they came near doing to some of the smart young
men of our city.
Received letters from John, James and Rosa.
303
Tuesday, Jan 3rd 1893.
A beautiful day - quite cold toward night. I earned $1.85
and have carried on so ridiculously with the girls at the
shop that I am actually ashamed of myself; and this
too, when I should observe proper decorum by way of
discipline for the "mimic" who seems to be a probable fact
in the not-so-far-distant future: seems to have stolen
a march on me unawares, which makes me feel
very giddy some how.
Mr & Mrs Pickett came in for an hour of fun to night.
Wednesday January 4th
Will's twenty-sixth birth day.
This morning I felt so very miserable I thought I just
couldn't work, but decided to try, and earned two dollars
and sixteen cents; am awfully tired tonight, but played
cards a little while with Mr & Mrs P. - Mr & Mrs S. and
Fred: but there are thorns which worry me not a little.
I feel so disgusted with Freds' acts of over-importance
and vulgar conversation in the dining room, and
I'm disgusted with myself for being too newsy, and
saying things much better left unsaid.
"O what fools we mortals be!"
304
Thursday January 5th 1893.
Earned $1.74; After supper I went directly to Mrs Pickett's
room and remained there until bed time.
Friday, January 6
Earned $1.59. I got nervous and cross, and finally
caved in and had a little cry.
I am awfully tired tonight, have gotten a little
cold and feel just about sick.
Fred and Tom went to the "leg show."
Sunday January 8 -
A beautiful sunny day, which has been given over
to a general calling and reception day among
the Picketts', Lynchs', Mrs Sanborn and ourselves.
Mr Ed Stearns also paid us a call.
I have written a letter to mother.
Monday Jan 9
I stitched twelve dozen pairs of white stitched
foxings and six dozen pairs of ordinary, ammount-
ing to $1.62. This evening I over casted the ends
of my new bath towels.
Received a letter from Mother telling of dear
little Hester Wilkes death yesterday morning.
305
Tuesday January 10 - 1893.
My twenty-seventh birthday; beautiful and sunny.
Sufficient snow fell during the past night for sleighing:
the first here this season.
I went up to the museum at noon and purchased
nine yards of thirty-eight inch brown mixed suiting
at fifty-nine cents per yard. Earned $1.79; got
home from work about seven o'clock to night.
Rheumatism is troubling me again, worse than for
some little time past. Have called on Mrs Sanborn
this evening: Tis growing cold very fast; now, at nine
o'clock it is four degrees below zero.
Wednesday January 11
A beautiful day and I have felt particularly happy
with thoughts of the future, and a little one that
may some day be mine; Earned $1.74
Played cards in No 11 with Mr & Mrs Pickett and Mrs
Sanborn: Received a letter from mother.
Gen. Benj. F. Butler died at Washington, D.C. No 220
New Jersey Avenue, Southeast. He was born in Deerfield,
N.H. Nov. 5 - 1818. "Many have cursed him; no one ever
said he was a fool."
306
Thursday January 12 - 1893.
I have been happy as the day is long; Earned $1.71
Went up town and purchased some handsome night
robes. Then I went in Mrs Picketts' room, - Mrs Sanborn
was there - and I had them all crazy with the
exhibition of my extravagance.
Friday January 13
A clear, cold, beautiful day; I earned $1.95 but I have
not been happy; - because Fred treated me so mean
I could not be: I know what is the matter with his
majesty - but I've repeated Davy Crocketts' motto over
and over to myself; so I'm convinced I am right,
and fully intend to go ahead.
Mrs Sanborn and Mrs Picket came in for a pleas-
ant dish of conversation this evening.
My hands and wrists are very sore and badly
swollen with rheumatism yet.
Saturday Jan 14
With sunshine all about me I have been light hearted
in spite of the growler: may be I will have some
body to love and to love me some day. Earned $1.50
and went up town to night and spent as much as I
have earned for two tickets for "H.M.S. Pinafore."
307
Sunday January 15 - 1893.
Cloudy - with some snow and prospect of colder weather.
I worked hard most all day; swept and arranged my
room; cared for the birds and plants, and then went
down in the laundry and washed some flannels
and handkerchiefs: Upon coming up stairs found the
Thurlows waiting in the hall, while their intended victims
were hidden away in our room and the door locked.
Spent the evening over casting the seams of a shirt for
Fred while we visited Picketts' people.
Tuesday Jan 17 -
At seven o'clock this morning the thermometer indicated
the temperature at twenty below zero; the day has
been, fair; sunny; beautiful and bright. I earned $1.62
Played cards in No 11 ad wrote briefly to mother.
Rutherford Birchard Hayes died at his home,
Spiegel Grove, Fremont, O. Born at Delaware, Ohio,
Oct. 4 - 1822. Married Lucy Ware Webb of Chillicothe, O.
Dec 30 - 1852. Was three times governor of his state:
became president of U.S. Mar. 5 - 1877.
308
Wednesday January 18 - 1893.
I did not rest very - well last night on account of a
pain in my stomach, and the excitement caused by the
fire alarm, it being the Impervious Packing Co's. shops
this time; so I did not go to work to day.
Gadded about the house with Mrs Sanborn and Mrs Pickett,
and they quizzed the Ouija board to find out all the
particulars about me; then Mrs P. and I made a little
shopping tour; she and her better half also came in for
a game of cards to night.
Thursday January 19.
Fearing my ill feelings might increase, or prove dis-
asterous unless I use extreme caution, I decided to
remain in my room: Have cut and fitted the lining
of a black satine waist.
"Allie" Buckminster, letter carrier, shuffled off his mortal
coil in the club room, this city. "Tired of living" was
the word he left.
Friday, January 20
Mrs Pickett lent me her sewing machine, and
I improved my opportunity to use it: got very tired
before I quit.
My patterns for "Health Wardrobe" came by mail and I
am much pleased with them. Mr P. called to night.
309
Saturday January 21 - 1893.
Mr. C. A. Maloy closed his engagement as foreman of
the stitching room. I, for one, am sorry to have him go.
I have not felt well, but felt that I must improve
my time and opportunity, so have done quite a bit
of easy sewing.
Went up to Doctor Proutys' office: - had to wait a
long time: - Purchased a lot of Lonsdale, Nainsook
and flannel etc.
Monday Jan. 23.
Went to work this morning and did four cases fancy
foxings - $1.08 but feeling so badly at noon did not
go back: Cut out some small garments and did
a bit of sewing.
Tuesday Jan 24
The power did not start until about eight o'clock,
but I had a lot of work to break up so I didnt care.
When it did start, work went just fine. I earned
$2.22. This evening I did some stitching on that
little new work for the little new some body I
am expecting; then played cards in No 11.
310
Wednesday Jan 25 - 1893.
I worked until noon, earning ninety-six cents, but symptoms
of miscarriage increased so rapidly I dared not return to work
after-dinner, I lay on the sofa until Mrs Sanforn came in,
then got up busied my self with sewing the rest of the day
and evening, as I thought it unwise to go to see "Pinafore"
with the rest: so I am denied that pleasure so long anticipated.
Saturday Jan 28 -
I cut out several small garments and did quite a bit of
sewing: put the finishing touches on three articles, in readiness
for "his lordship"; Mrs Sanborn spent an hour or so with me
late in afternoon; Mrs Pickett spent the evening with Fred
and me; I did not retire until midnight.
Sunday Jan 29
Rainy and dark; the elm tres are very beautiful, being completely
coated to tips of the branches with ice.
More symptoms of a calamity which increased until about
eleven oclock Dr Darling was sent for: since then I have
been taking things easy.
Mrs Lynch, Mr & Mrs Pickett and Mr & Mrs Sanborn
called this evening.
311
Tuesday January 31 - 1893.
I have felt out of sorts and cranky. Sewed a little bit.
Mrs Pickett and I have been consulting Ouija: it told me
strange tales of future fortune or misfortune.
My head feels dreadfully "muddled" but I suppose the doctors'
medicine is the cause of it.
Played cards in No11. with Picketts, Mrs Sanborn, and my better
half.
Thursday Feb 2nd
I went up town and got chloroform to put an end to the
miseries of my poor little bird Olive; then went to the shop to
put in my coupons: - met Mr Blanchard, our new foreman.
Then I sewed awhile: Mrs Pickett came in and we went
in Mrs Sanborns' room: This evening Fred and I played cards
with Mr & Mrs P.
Friday, February 3rd
Stormy; snow and sleet alternating, followed by a howling wind
as night settled down. My nerves and indignation have
been wound up to a high pitch today - and after noon
Mrs Sanborn and I interviewed Chas. Putnam and protested
against the very frequent entertainment of numerous lude [lewd]
women at this house: the result of the interview was
a sudden scattering and departure of the undesirable
females referred to; and peace and quiet reign once more.
312
Eagle Hotel.
Saturday February 4th 1893.
Mrs Sanborn and Mrs Picket came visiting me and we had
kind of a sewing bee. I made a pair of sheets.
Mrs Henry Allen called; also Doctor Darling, to night, to see
how I am getting along.
Later Fred and I played cards in Picketts' room.
This is mother's sixtieth birth-day.
Sunday, February 5th
"Her name was synonymous with all that was generous,
gentle and good." Such is the comment published on the
death this day of Mrs William C. Whitney, wife of ex-secretary
of the navy, at her home, 2 West 57th St. New York City.
When my turn comes to depart from this life,
what would the little circle in which I live, and move
and have my being say of me? Ah! "to see ourselves, as
others see us!
Monday February 6 -
Back to the shop again once more, and it seems good
to be earning some cash once again: started off on one
dollar and eighty cents.
Some thing like four inches of snow has fallen in all
day but rain followed to night.
313
TTuesday [sic] February 7 - 1893.
The editor of the Globe says "the present confusion in the
elements hardly deserves the name of weather:" and ice
is everywhere underfoot.
I went up town at noon and did a bit of shopping:
Earned $2.16 at the factory, and tonight I must say
I am tired, and my heart flutters.
Mr & Mrs Pickett made an evening call.
Wednesday, February 8.
I have been obliged to hear numerous remarks not
complimentary to my relative who works in the stitching
room, but have appeared to be ignorant of their meaning.
Earned $1.60 attending to my own business: had twenty-
nine pairs of samples: Came home before five o'clock
and did a little sewing. Mrs Sanborn and Mrs Pickett
came in: Fred and I spent the evening playing cards
with Mrs S. and the Picketts in No 11.
Thursday, February 9th
Went to the shop this morning but had no foxings, so came
home and darned some towels and sewed a bit.
Called on Mrs Sanborn afternoon: went to shop again to night
to put in my coupons. The Insane Asylum at Dover
burned, roasting to cinders forty-one unfortunates of the mad world.
314
Friday February 10 - 1893.
Appearances indicate that there was a snow storm during the
past night, but it was raining hard this morning, and
such walking! My work was some what varied: I foxed
two cases white stitched congress at $18¢ each: one case foxed
Oxfords' at .25¢ and put outside heel stays on seventy-two pairs
at one cent per pair - making a total of $1.33
To night I called on Mrs Pickett; then after a little the male
members of the families came and we played "high-low-Jack
Pedro" Had a letter from mother.
Saturday, Feb. 11 - 1893.
Did two cases fancy foxings, = .54¢. a lot of f.f. samples, foxed
meltons and quilted shoes, and one case of beaded heels,
my days work ammounting to $1.30
Went up town tonight and did some shopping.
Sunday Feb. 12
A fine day, but every body seems to feel stupid: Fred occupied
the lounge most of the fore noon, and I indulged in a nap
afternoon. Mrs Sanborn called. I wrote a letter and read
the Globe. Mr & Mrs Pickett made an evening call.
315
Monday February 13 - 1893.
A snow storm commenced about half-past eight o'clock in the morning,
coming thick and fast: it has turned out to be by far the biggest
one so far this season, and is still falling now at 10 P.M.
I worked the first half of the day and earned $1.33 but remained
home after dinner, not feeling quite first-class: after a
couple hours of sleep I arose and finished a "nightie" for
some little stranger. Fred and I spent the evening card
playing with the Pickett's and Sanborn's in Room No 11.
Tuesday February 14.
About a foot of snow is the result of the recent storm.
I did seven cases of number two foxed Oxfords at .25¢ and
one fancy foxed - all ammounting to $2.02
To night the sofa has been preferable to any other thing
for me while Fred and Mrs Pickett played cards.
Wednesday Feb. 15.
I am most unhappy on account of Freds' behaviour toward
me last night; I dreamed of Will, - but daylight turned
Hopes' glad music to a sigh, Its glory to a tear." and I have
been miserable in body, and mind: Could I but undo the
past, and go back to where I made that awful blunder!
"Quoth the Raven, Nevermore." I have earned $2.07 today,
and spent the evening playing cards again: same old story.
316
Thursday Feb. 16 - 1893.
I have earned $2.15 at the shop. Have been up town to night
trying to locate a dressmaker, but was unsuccessful in
finding one at liberty. Afterward went in No 11 and played
cards again; I'm tired and sick of wasting all my evenings
shuffling those wretched faces, aces, and spots!
Friday February 17 -
Weather colder. I earned $2.11 Evening callers - Jennie,
Carrie and Mrs Tuttle.
Saturday February 18.
A snow storm. Tom and Nellie Lynch started for Auburn, Me.
I earned $1.45. Played cards again to night with the Pickett's
and Mrs Sanborn; and afterward basted the hems of a sheet.
Monday, February 20 -
A very severe snow storm this day. I finished a sheet
and another little garment for the bit of humanity in
prospect and made button holes in my black satine
waist. Went up town just before night on an errand.
Played cards until ten o'clock to night at the rooms
of Mr & Mrs Sanborn together with Mr & Mrs Pickett
317
Tuesday, February 21 - 1893.
Beautiful bright and sunny, but the air is sharp.
I have earned one dollar and a half at top-stitching and
foxing: Fred and I have had a quiet evening all by our
selves, and spent it perusing the newspapers, which give a
graphic account of yesterday's blizzard, which did much
damage; being especially severe on the coasts.
It originated in the lake region and spent its strength
on New England.
Wednesday, February 22 -
Snow commenced again to fall, before dawn and has
continued most of the day, consequently the rail-roads
are again blockaded and traveling in any way is dif-
ficult. I did not go home to dinner: earned $1.80
The "cutters" think they have had a picnic sending a
"rare-ripe" boy on fools errands about the shop.
I sent and hour or so in No 11 to night.
Thursday Feb. 23rd
A beautiful sunny day, but toward night the sky grew
leaden hued, and there are indications of rain.
I have been obliged to hear very uncomplimentary
remarks concerning a relative, by girls who have
their failings, like most other people: but have attended
to my own business mean time which nets me $2.03
318
Friday, February 24 - 1893.
A brief snow storm early in the day. I have not been
very social with girls - on account of their numerous
remarks regarding Matt, which I pretend to be wholly
ignorant of knowing: so earned $1.60
Cards in No 11 the six of us. Recd. letter from Mother -.
Saturday, Feb 25.
Clear, cold morning - a brief snow storm at night.
I quit work for the day at half past one o'clock, and
went shopping; sewed, and called on Mrs Sanborn.
Sunday Feb. 26 -
Fred has been most anything but agreeable: I felt
much disgusted that he would not answer when
spoken to: must think himself a delightful companion
to spend a Sunday with. I read awhile and wrote a
letter to Carrie: then visited Mrs Pickett. She has
her troubles too, but tis on account of her poor health.
She feels discouraged: I also went with her and Mr P.
and Mr & Mrs Sanborn up to the engine house.
Monday Feb. 27 -
Did not feel like going to the shop so remained home
and sewed. Mrs S. and Mrs P. called.
319
Tuesday February 28 - 1893.
I hustled all the foresenoon doing five cases fancy foxings,
and after dinner did sixty-three pairs foxed samples.
Came home about half-past three o'clock, having earned
$2.30. Then I went up town; purchased a pair of ten
inch shears for $1.25 and a pair of button hole scissors
for $.75 There was a sudden snow storm toward night.
About nine o'clock P.M. sent for Doctor Darling who
came immediately.
Wednesday March 1st
I feel weak and stupid, - presumably partly due to
medicine - but am still having a realy sick day.
The doctor came before noon. At noon time Fred
was so agreeable and sympathetic as to remark that
he "would think I would know enough to go up home
and stay out of the way." and other "pleasantries."
This afternoon Mrs Sanborn, Mrs Pickett and
Mrs Ward called, and this evening Mr & Mrs P
made a brief call.
I have managed to sew up a sheet during the day.
Thursday Mar 2 -
Basted and re-basted many times, my satine waist.
Went to shop about two o'clock - and did two cases foxings. $.54
320
Friday, March 3rd 1893.
I worked during the forenoon, earning $.99 but was
miserably sick at my stomach, my head aches, and my
heart acts dreadfully - I am some what discouraged I
must confess. In the "lower regions" of this hostelry
some new arrival has been so kind as to give us
numerous musical selections on an accordion - Very
good my unknown friend! Let us have more of it,
please!
Saturday March 4th 1893.
There was a little snow storm this morning which
proved to be of no consequence.
I have felt just wretched; had no work at the shop so
I fussed over the black satine waist again.
Went down to the shop toward night, afterward up
town. Spent the evening at cards again together with
Mr & Mrs Sanborn and Mr & Mrs Pickett.
Grover Cleveland inaugurated president of U.S.A. for
the second term; consequently the beautiful and ever
popular Mrs C- and baby Ruth are "the people" on
whom we fix our gracious admirations for another
four years.
321
Sunday March 5th 1893.
I made Mrs Sanborn an early morning call, and
this afternoon Fred and I spent some thing like two
hours in No 11 - I presume "they" may regard us as
"nuisances:" If we could but see our selves as others see
us! Later I made an attempt at writing mother
and Rosa, but my head feels like a vacuum, and
my heart is altogether too frisky.
Monday March 6 -
Had work until about half past three, earning $1.48 1/2
Did some sewing after I came home.
Mr & Mrs Pickett made us an evening call.
Tuesday March 7 -
Having no work at the shop I improved my oppor-
tunity to make a sheet and pair of pillow cases.
The evening mail brought letters from home - 'tis
now vacation time for James and Rosa. Letters
contained the news of kittie Bo-peeps' decease.
Wednesday March 8.
I did twenty-seven dozen pairs of fancy foxed heels
making my days work count me $2.43. Went up
town at noon. Tonight I am very tired, and have a cold.
322
Friday March 10 - 1893.
A beautiful spring-like day: I made a shirt and
two pairs of pillow cases - though I had made a
beginning on them previously.
Fred went to Boston on the afternoon train.
Mr & Mrs Pickett made and evening call.
Saturday March 11 -
Went to the shop but had no work, and spent the greater
part of the fore noon at Mattie's room, as she is not
feeling as well as usual: the rest of the day I did
"little nothings" Mesdames Pickett and Sanborn made
me an afternoon call, and this evening Mr & Mrs
Pickett came to my domicile, where we discussed
various phases of human nature.
Sunday Mar 12 -
A dark rainy day. I have been in excellent spirits.
Had a good cleaning-up-time in my room: after
dinner I perused the Sunday Globe, being particularly
entertained by "Howards' Letter" on human nature,
and Uncle Dudleys' darts hurled at Ward McAllister
of New York in an article entitled Mr Cleveland and
the 400: and spent much time writing, as usual.
323
Monday Marh 13 - 1893.
Another beautuful day but oh! such awful walking!
I worked at shop until about half past ten oclock, then-
I went up town and put thirty dollars in the Provident
Institution, and cloth for a sheet and made it this
afternoon: I now have six new ones and four pairs
of pillow cases: My heart has acted badly and I am
feeling just about sick.
Tuesday Mar 14 -
Fred returned from Boston on the noon train.
Wednesday March 15
Fred acts sour and "pouty", and I am most miserable:
wrote a long letter full of woe to Rosa.
Put a new back breadth in one of my white petticoats.
This is my old comrades' wedding day! Seldon you're
a lucky fellow!
To night Mr Pickett revealed what I thought he
knew of my condition.
Thursday Mar 16
My first days work under Mr Cornells' government.
earned $1.71 We were agreeably surprised at a stop-
over between trains of Warren and Ada Davis.
324
Friday. Mar. 17 - 1893.
St.Patrick's: green ribbons have been very much in evidence.
I earned $1.89. Have felt discouraged and "blue" and miserable - but
Edith Smith (bless her good soul) brought me some lovely blossoms
which made me feel a thrill of joy that some body remem-
bered me and is kind. Mr & Mrs Pickett came in for a game
of cards this evening.
Saturday March 18 -
Earned $1.98, and finished all the work I have just now.
Received letters from mother and Rosa. To night I have
been up town and got some Greens' "Nervuva" hoping
to regain my strength and appetite and feel better
balanced than I have of late.
Sunday Mar. 19
I "slicked" up my room and did some necessary mending.
After dinner Henry Thurlow came with a request for me
to go to his wife, which I did: found her very nervous
and momentarily expecting a miscarriage; I remained
with her until nine o'clock: she was feeling better when
I left her.
325
Monday Mar 20 - 1893.
A beautiful morning - so I improved my opportunity and
took a walk up to Mrs Thurlows: found her very comfortable
Ripped up my black princess dress and took it to Mrs
Dean to have a skirt made of it: finished an apron and
did several odd jobs.
Wednesday Mar 22 -
Worked this forenoon and earned ninety cents. Saw Miss
Mary Call for the first time since her return from
the prolonged vacation of many months duration.
Mrs Pickett spent most of the afternoon with me at my
room while I did some mending.
This evening Mr & Mrs Pickett played cards with us "at
home."
Friday Mar 24
I have been to Doctor Fitzgerald for examination; he
pronounces my difficulty a case of false conception.
This leaves me in a state of constant dread and
momentary expectation of a calamity. Oh! the torture
of this awful uncertainty! No two doctors agree
What am I coming to?
The show company giving Joshua Simpkins is in town,
and one of our matrons has been carrying on a
daring flirtation with one of the show fellows - on the sly.
326
Saturday March 25 - 1893.
"Archie Allen" and Mrs __ have been continuing their
side-show performances: she thinks she is having a great
lark! I washed my windows; did some sewing etc. and
discussed recent and more antiquanited experiences and
events with Mrs Pickett
To night I had a severe attack of colic.
Wednesday March 29
A most beautiful day. I read quite a while, and made
some button holes in some flannel garments for "It."
Mrs Sanborn came in with her sewing; Mrs Thurlow
and Lizzie called. Fred and I played cards in Picketts'
room tonight.
Thursday March 30
[image] I have felt very miserable and sick: Finished reading
Mother Goose for Grown Folks by Mrs A.D.T. Whitney.
Until now I never suspected there was so much philosophy
and essence of life boiled down in the jingles of "Bo Peep
Jack Horner and Little Boy Blue".
My dear Mrs Whitney, I feel like making a very
pretty bow to your ladyship:
The weather has grown colder and a little snow
storm came toward night. Mr & Mrs Pickett called.
327
Friday March 31 - 1893
I copied several of Mrs Whitneys Mother Goose rymes into
a blank book. Mrs Pickett and Mrs Sanborn came in
with their sewing after noon. I worked on that everlasting
satine waist: have not felt very well.
Tonight I made a pilgrimage to the library and wound
up the day in getting acquainted with some of the
characters in my new book.
Saturday April 1st
Very warm: a little rain with a strong wind toward
night: At last I have finished that satine waist.
Mrs Pickett went with me to help select some new
wearing apparel. I purchased a dark green military
cape with Derby collar at the Museum for $9.00
A brown hat with green and white ribbon and pink
rose-buds at Miss Duffer's for $7.15: also got new
shoes and hosiery.
Sunday April 2 -
Easter; a beautiful sunny day but said to be cold.
I read, and wrote a letter to Mother.
Mr & Mrs Pickett made us an evening call.
328
Tuesday April 4th 1893.
There was a thunder shower about eight o'clock this
morning, and the rest of the day has been dark and lowey;
quite a strong breeze has sprung up to night.
I got a new skirt pattern and have cut over my fawn
colored and white batiste skirt. Mrs Sanborn and Vera
Lewis came in, and this evening Julia Freeman called.
Wednesday April 5 -
A magnificent morning! I went up to Miss Richardson's
and got a hat she has just trimmed for me, and
wrote a long letter to Rosa.
This afternoon Mrs Pickett, Miss Mertie Brooks, Mrs
Sanborn, Vera Lewis and myself paid a visit to Ellis'
green house, and afterward had a game or two of whist
in No 18 - This morning Mr Pickett and Annie Donovan
called.
Thursday April 6 -
Fast day. For a change, I had work enough at the
shop to ammount to $78. This evening Fred and I
attended the Columbian Minstrel, (home talent) enter-
tainment. I christened my new dress, cape, hat and gloves.
329
Friday April 7 - 1893.
A real snow storm came and lasted nearly all day,
ammounting in all to some thing like four inches in
depth. I did six cases of carrick gores, ammounting to
all of $.72. Dont feel first class: Mr & Mrs Pickett, Fred
and myself were "invited out" by the Sanborns', where we
had a pleasant evening and a toothsome treat of maple
sugar on snow.
Saturday April 8.
Worked at the shop until eleven AM: Did a bit of sewing
then decended to the laundry where I did some washing.
The snow of yesterday has disappeared as if by magic
and this afternoon we had two thunder showers, by way
of variety. To night Mrs Sanborn, Fred and I played
cards with the Picketts.
Monday April 10
A fire alarm and the finding of P.M Barrett the
events of the fore noon. I went up town on some
errands, so called at Dr. Darling's office: talked over the
prospect, which is very discouraging, to say the least.
I am weary with crying: I can but feel that
some dreadful thing awaits me, but what?
This after noon I went for a walk.
330
Wednesday April 12 - 1893
Mrs Sanborn and Vera started for East Saugus on morn-
ing train. I did fancy foxings to the ammount of $1.35:
Came home at half past five o'clock.
Fred and I spent the evening with the Picketts' and
played an "exceedingly honest" game of cards.
"Miss Aspara-grass" has left the Hotel-de-Bum" and
taken up her abode elsewhere.
Saturday April 15
Earned $.81 At two o'clock P.M. a goodly number of us
left the shop to attend the matinee of Denman Thompson's
"Old Homestead". A stormy, uncomfortable day.
Sunday April 16
Swept and dusted my room: Called on the Tuttles', and
by invitation, attended church at First Cong. with them
this evening. Mr & Mrs Pickett called after I got home.
Wednesday April 26 -
Mr & Mrs Pickett, Fred and I went to see "The Hustler."
Count Spaghetti was very interesting; Anheuser Busch,
the Dutchman, was more than ludicrous; Anna Danta,
the boarding house mistress, was too giddy for anything.
The serpentine dance by Sadie Kirby was worth mention.
I feel well entertained.
331
Sunday April 30 1893.
A magnificent day! I attended Unitarian services this morning.
After noon Mr & Mrs Pickett, Fred and I went up to the reser-
voir; got some pussy willows and two well developed polly-
wogs as souvenirs of the trip.
Monday May 1st
Emma, Addie and I firmly resolved to be more lady-
like in our conversation henceforth: high time we
turned over a new leaf. Have earned $1.17
Went up town tonight and got an express money order:
sending for three rose bushes, a tree honey suckle, and
a quince tree for Mother: had a boquet of flowers
and a letter from her tonight.
Tuesday May 2nd
We, the members of the "Mutual Improvement Club" have
adopted four by-laws, and a motto, and have realy tried
hard to be good and speak properly - but at a penny
fine for each offense we have some reason to fear
bankruptcy, as the records today have been as follows;
Addie 8; Emma 3; and I 1. Just to wear my
thinking cap and get my nmouth into proper shape
by saying "prunes and prisms." Earned $.84 Received a
letter from James. Went up town with Mrs P. this evening.
332
Wednesday May 3rd 1893.
A cold, nasty drizzling day. I have earned only $.72
I have felt miserably sick, and blue: To night I have
been in Mrs Picketts' room, where we have had lively
discussion of various subjects. Mr P. being one of the
"victims" Susie Aplin came in while I was there.
I am all-of-a-tremble to night; can hardly write.
My circulation has been bad all day.
Sunday May 7
Fred put up a pole and clothes rack in one corner of
our room and I have arranged draperys etc: having
bought a pair of Canton curtains from Mrs Pickett for
one dollar: the pole, rings and rack cost $1.49 now I
have additional closet room. After noon Mrs Pickett
and I went for a walk down the rail-road track,
then tarried at the engine house, where Mr P. was
having some work done on engine 389.
Had a nap after I came up stairs: spent the evening
on No 11 while Fred went for a drive with Mr Sanborn.
Wednesday May 10
I worked tip stitching before noon and stitching Polish
side stays balance of the day. Felt miserable and have no
appetite. There has been a town full of band music tonight.
333
Thursday May 11 - 1893.
A hot summer like day. I saw a butterfly: The leaves
are coming out on several kinds of shrubs and trees.
The field and yards are now quite green - a most
beautiful season. I did tipping, fancy zigzag and
samples. To night have been up town with Mrs Pickett
and afterward played cards.
Sunday May 14.
Mrs Pickett and I went for a long walk up Court
to Prospect St., across to Elm and home via Washington
St: Have written a long letter to Mother.
Mr & Mrs Pickett made an evening call.
Monday May 15
This night Mrs Pickett and I have been to the Grand
Festival Concert, by the Boston Festival orchestra, of 40
performers, conducted by Mr Emil Mollenhauer.
Two of the artists were Miss Rose Stewart, soprano, and
Mr Felix Winternitz, violinist.
While we were at concert, Fred went for a drive
with Mr Sanborn, and came near losing his
life in an accident; - colliding with another team.
334
Tuesday May 16 - 1893.
Frank C. Almy paid the price demanded by law in
atonement for his crime; so the curtain rings down
on the last act of his life's drama.
Rain and a howling wind to night: we played cards
in No 11.
Friday May 19 -
Have earned $1.68 this day. Eugenie Laurent seventeen
years old. I never tire of looking at her beautiful brown
eyes which I do so admire!
To night Mrs P. and I made an errand up town,
but my particular object was to have occasion to
meet and bow to Mr Carr from Orange, whom I
spied at supper table in company with "a lady".
Afterward played cards.
Sunday May 21
A rather hot, summer like day, but the wind blows and
sand flies furiously. I attended service at Baptist church
this morning, and after dinner, went for a drive with
Mr Sanborn to Troy: about twenty-five miles in all
as we drove round about various suburbs, arriving in
Town again about seven o'clock in the evening.
Wrote a letter to mother. Mr & Mrs Pickett called.
335
Monday May 22nd 1893.
One of the large boilers at Beaver Mills burst at noon
time.
Wednesday May 24.
A thunder shower during the night cooled the air, and
this day was breezy and comfortable as to temperature.
Not feeling as well as ordinary, I did not go to work,
but consulted Doctor Wesley, who says I have tumor
sacks forming.
Have written letters to James and Rosa, and cut and
made over a pair of stockings.
Mrs Pickett and Mrs Sanborn spent most of the after-
noon with me.
Mr & Mrs P. came in tonight for a game of cards.
Saturday. May 27
I have felt hardly able to drag myself around, but
staid my ten hours at the shop. My heart has troubled
me greatly. This was Addie Liscordo last day at the shop.
I, for one will miss her very much;
We have had a thunder shower this evening. I mended
stockings and afterward played cards in No 11.
336
Sunday May 28 - 1893
A fine breezy day. After dinner Mr & Mrs Pickett, Fred
and I went for an outing down the B & M track and
up over Beech hill to the tower: found some wild honeysuck-
les; came home tired but well satisfied with our trip.
Have written to Carrie George since our return.
Tuesday June 6 -
Oh such a hot day! I did three cases fancy on vamps,
one of beaded heels and one of fancy foxings, ammounting
to $1.42 Came home at five o'clock, "fixed up" and
went to Dr Hylands; he thinks my case is not so very
serious, but it looks as if the "kid" business is all a
fake: Showers to night; Mr & Mrs Pickett called.
Sunday June 11
A scorcher! After dinner, I went with Mr & Mrs Pickett
down below the bridge on the B & M. track, then up on
the side of Beech hill and lounged around for a couple
of hours in the shade of a tree, and enjoyed the delightful
breeze. After sunset we sat on the roof until driven
in by a severe thunder storm: there was a bountiful
rain, much needed.
337
Monday June 12 - 1893,
First thing this morning I went up town on some errands.
Earned $1.35 at the shop. Played cards this evening with
Mr & Mrs P: and later was happily surprised at the
quite unusual affection shown me by my husband.
I wonder why it is not the every day occurrence
as it should be, instead of such a rarity! when I crave
love and petting; - it seems some times as if I should
just starve - because of the lack of it.
Tuesday June 13
Worked on childrens foxed shoes and earned all of eighty cents.
To night I washed my windows - and afterward played cards
in No 11. Received a letter from Mother telling me
of Jim's good fortune in getting a twenty-five dollar
prize on a debate
Thursday June 15.
Hottest day of the season so far: a fine breeze sprang
up at sunset and there is prospect of a shower.
Fred was out of work by ten o'clock this morning, and
I came home at three, having earned seventy cents.
At six I went up town with Emma Liscord, Albina
Shattuck, and Emma Anger to select a piano lamp as
a wedding gift to Addie: Roof party to night - five of us.
338
Friday June 16 - 1893.
At noon time I was lying on the lounge in my room
having a good cry when Mr Pickett came in.
Sunday June 18.
This morning Mrs Pickett and I went for a walk; found
a comfortable place to rest under a big pine, this side of
the reservoir, and our conversation turned to our "other halves"
and our own past lives.
After dinner there was much napping: At night the
half dozen of us sat out on the roof for a time.
Monday June 19 -
Went for a drive this forenoon with Mrs Sanborn
down Marlboro St. and up back of Beech hill and
home via Washington St: And after dinner we went
shopping together.
Tuesday June 20
I went up town on an errand: Fred and I started for
Fairlee at 11-11 o'clock A.M. arriving on time; it was very
warm on the cars. John met us at station:
Jim and Rosa are just home from Montpelier.
339
Saturday June 24 - 1893.
Did a little sewing. About noon Fred and I went down town.
Mrs Renfrew came out to the house this after noon and
remained to tea: afterward Rosa and I went down below
the Chattanooga House after wild strawberries and got some
three quarts.
Sunday June 25
I trimmed the rose bushes and put on hellebore.
This after noon Fred, Rosa and I went to Huckleberry Pond:
got pitcher plants and blossoms.
Warren and Ada here: Carrie and Seldon George called.
Monday - June 26.
Very cloudy day. Rosa and I started about nine o'clock
this morning and drove to West Fairlee to visit Carrie George.
Found her nicely settled in a good home: nice visit:
nice drive home via the lake road with gray horse Caleb.
Tuesday June 27
Carried John and Fred to station this morning to go to White
River: Tried on dresses at Kate Brennan's. Had quite a
long talk with Ed Corliss at Rice's store; learned some
thing about Will: Ed says he sent home a picture
recently, showing a handsome fellow with moustache.
Oh if I could only see him! How I wish, too, that
I could see that picture!
340
Tuesday June 27 - 1893 (continued)
Afternoon I set out some wild rose bushes that I dug
up beside the road near the lake yesterday.
Sunday July 2nd
I commenced this day with a raging head-ache, but
swept and cleaned up my room, and then lay in
the hammock for a time.
Late in the afternoon Mother and I walked up to
the silver mine to see how that looked, then from
there up on the hill in the Renfrew pasture and
got about two quarts of wild strawberries.
After supper we carried water for the shrubs and roses
until bed time.
Tuesday July 4th
In the first half of the day I sewed on my
blue serge skirt and other work.
After noon Fred, Rosa and I drove with Caleb to
the foot of the pond to view the celebration which
consisted of various kinds of races and a base-
ball game. Saw Mr Frank Porter of Orange and
Mary Fulton of Northfield, and others.
This evening Mother, Fred, Rosa and I went down to
the "three cottages" to see the fire-works at the foot.
341
Wednesday - July 5 - 1893.
Fred, Rosa and I went fishing but at about half-past
two o'clock were driven home by rain: The catch was 15
horned-pouts and twenty others: The rain did not con-
tinue long so Rosa and I went up in the Renfrew
pasture and picked over fifteen quarts of wild strawberries,
The grass was wet and we were a sight to behold.
Picked over berries all evening.
Thursday July 6 -
I have some how been very busy, although I don't
seem to have much to show for it except quite a
lot of ironing. Toward night Fred went down town
to exercise Ned Wilkes and I went with him.
Mr S. S. Houghton died at his house in Melrose,
of paralysis, at 9-15 o'clock, aged 68 years.
Saturday July 8
Rosa and I started about 5-30 A.M. to go trolling, which
did not prove particularly fascinating, so we fished for
bass south of the knoll: we saw quantities of nice fat
ones, but owing to their fickle appetites we were obliged
to come home without them about eleven o'clock.
I ironed my black dress goods and other things, then
R & I went down by the Chattanooga House for raspberries.
were driven home by thunder shower with three qts berries.
342
Monday July 10 - 1893,
Rosa and I started at eight o'clock this morning to pick
raspberries in the Morey pasture: we got home just
before dark with thirty-four quarts. Sold Mrs Kibbey
2 qts; Mrs Long 3 qts; Mrs Sell Davis 6 qts and Mrs
Daniell 20 qts at .10¢ per. qt.
David had an awful hard fit this evening, and bruised
his face badly in falling.
Tuesday July 11 -
Rosa and I picked twenty two quarts of raspberries -
made a shorter day - At night we drove down town
and delivered to Mrs Bickford 5 qts; Mrs Fred Abbott
5 qts, N.P. Warren 4 qts and Kate Brennan 7 qts.
Got home about ten o'clock feeling twisted.
Friday July 21 -
I did some ironing: At two o'clock Capt E. O. Lucas
of steamer Gypsy came to Peckett's Wharf for Rosa
and me: we spent the after noon with Amy at her
home: staid to tea, and had a very enjoyable moon-
light steamer ride home: There was a lively company
on board;
343
Friday July 28 - 1893.
Picked over berries for Mother to can: cleaned the silver.
Dick and Emma called. Toward night Rosa and I went
fishing and had pretty good luck catching perch.
Mother went to visit Mrs Renfrew. I baked five loaves of
bread, & picked over some beans this evening.
Rosa and I divided our berry money: we sold 158 1/2 qts
at ten cents per quart.
Wednesday Aug 2 -
This morning I went up to the Renfrew place to get
raspberries - and Mother came later: together we got
eighteen quarts of those nice Cuthberts.
After dinner I caught bass bait and Mother and I
went fishing - got two bass and a few good sized perch
and this evening we have picked over most of the berries.
Thursday August 10
Went fishing about half past ten and returned at nearly
two P.M. with small luck.
To night I went to Haley's dance at Pavillion with John,
in hay wagon: the Middle Point people joining us there.
Six years since I have attempted to dance: How I miss
my comrade of happier days! There is such a void of
emptiness: a lonliness and longing that is never gratified.
344
Sunday August 13 - 1893.
Some what cooler, - a clear, beautiful day.
James, Rosa and I attended church: it was childrens'
day. The church was nicely decorated, - Rev. T.P. Frost,
now of Baltimore, made a brief, but spicy address
in his usual interesting manner: - full house.
Rosa and I christened our light floss dresses (made
alike) This evening I have written to Mattie and a
business letter to Mrs S. A. Mason.
Monday Aug. 14
Rosa went to Windsor, Vt. to attend the teachers'
summer school. Mother and I did Mrs Winships'
and our own washing and did not get all done
until dark.
Thursday August 17.
Cloudy and cold first part of the day. I went with
Jim down across the pond in a boat to the S.S.
picnic. Enjoyed remarks by Rev. T. P. Frost and had
very pleasant chats with Mary Fulton, Mattie
Granger, Elroy and Viola and others: Returned on
the steamer as far as Mr Winships and waited
there until Fred came with a team, as it rained
hard.
345
Friday August 25 - 1893
A terrible hot day. I did some ironing and trimmed
and arranged plants in the front yard, and did
some house work.
John drove to Bradford with Fred and me so we
could visit at Warren S. Davis': but three of the
children are at home now, i.e. Lottie, Harry
and Grace.
Miss Jessie Martin made an evening call here.
Sunday Aug 27
I read a while, and copied the words of the new
song "After the Ball." Rosa (who returned yesterday
from Windsor) came after us about 10-30 o'clock A.M.
On our arrival home found Mother suffering from
a hard cold. She gave me 11 1/2 yds light blue,
and three yards dark print from bundles.
About noon there was a little shower, and late
in the evening a bounteous thunder shower.
Thursday Aug. 31
The air is pure and invigorating: it is a pleas-
ure to be out. I drove to the depot and got John
and Fred who just returned from White River.
Trimmed a new sailor hat for Rosa and sewed up a
sheet - and did various odd jobs.
346
Sunday, Sept 3rd 1893.
A cool morning; said to have been frosty in several
localities near here. I helped about the house work and
then James, Rosa and I went to church. Rev. Mr
Lers preached. We stopped at Bracy's studio on our
way home and I sat for photographs. When we got
home George and Jennie Sampson were here.
Rosa went to West Fairlee to commence her first
term of school teaching.
There was a soaking rain this evening.
Tuesday September 5th
A very busy day of scrubbing, sweeping and general
house work. Mrs Baldwin came just before noon
and remained until evening: Mr Baldwin came
at dark. Mr Tucker was here to to tea and afterward
held religious services at the school house.
347
Ae
Oct 22/86
Mrs Warren &
Baby Herbert
Mar. 26/92 -
John Clement's 50th birthday
WILBUR
COLLECTION
UNIVERSITY
OF
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LIBRARY