Diary of Ebenezer Parkman, 1728

1728 January 1 (Monday). A moderate pleasant day, My heart was filled with Joy before God for his wondrous Sparing Mercy in bringing Me to the Light of this Day beginning another Year which truly, considering the Deserts of Sin and the late threatenings of Providence, it was almost beyond my Expectations to See. Oh that it might please God, through his abundant Mercy in Christ to remove away those Sins of mine and those of his people of this Land that brought down Tokens of Displeasure in Such distressing and fearfull Dispensations as those of the Last Year, lest if his anger be not turned away his hand Should be stretched out still this Year also, and our plagues be made wonderfull, if we be not brought to utter Desolation.

As to the Earthquake, being down at Mr. David Maynards in the Evening (requested to visit his 5 Sick children and pray with them) Mr. Daniel Maynard of Marlborough enquir’d whether any of us had heard it, intimating herewith to us that Some persons were afraid they had, and afraid that it had been heard Every Sabbath night Since the great shocks. When I came home I understood by Noah Rice1 and Daniell Hardy that Mr. James Miller and Nathaniel Whitney2 each of them were so apprehensive that they heard it in the night before last that they both got up. The Divine Compassion that Safeguards and Delivers us! O that God would still deliver us. I was not without Some hearty, though I confess too weak and lame Endeavours after, as the pardon of the Miscarriages and offences of the Last year (particularly of March 17th which Oh that it may be blotted out of the book of Gods remembrance) to Such a Settled pious Disposition that this Year may be Spent wholly to the Glory of God, in a walk that may please him, and in Essayes to promote his Church’s interest to the last of my Capacity.

1728 January 2 (Tuesday). I rode to Mr. Hezekiah How’s. I went with him to Examine some of the Bounds of the ministerial Lot, that I might make some Improvement of it.

In the Evening Mrs. Mary Whiting3 was with me requesting I would Examine her in order to her joining with our Church. I hope the work of grace is at least begun in her Heart.

1728 January 3 (Wednesday). Reading Mr. Foxcrofts Sermon on the Earthquake (preach’d by him before the Court).4 I was mov’d I hope rather with justifiable emulation and ambition than Envy. But verily I was much Excited most of the Day to reflect on the progress and advancement he and Some few other persons of distinguish’d Characters had gain’d in both Piety and Learning. I could but draw up a Resolution that though my powers are small yet according to my Measures I would by the Grace of Christ, lead a Religious, Serviceable and contented Life, with Diligence and industry laying in what Store of Knowledge, and especially Striving after as many Divine Virtues to adorn and accomplish me, as I may be able.

Lieutenant Forbush5 came to me in the Evening who among other things, Speaking of Samuell Hardy’s Case6 Express’d himself so as Convinced me I should meet with some Trouble in managing it.

1728 January 4 (Thursday). Private Meeting at Mr. Pratts. I sent Dr. Increase Mathers Kingdom of Christ is approaching,7 etc., by Mr. Thurston. Deacon Fay8 and Mr. Abner Newton9 and others came to see me in the Evening. Very cold. Mr. How brought me Store Geese.

1728 January 5 (Friday). Very Sharp Cold. Mr. Nathaniel Whiting came to be Examin’d in order to his admission to the Lords Supper.

1728 January 6 (Saturday). The First of my Discourses on Ps. 60.1.2 took me up (though began in no improper Season of the week) till 3 p.m. of this Day When I began the first of those Discourses on 1 Cor. 6.9.10.11, and it was prepar’d before it was over late in the night. I Suppose it not much after Eleven when I was actually in my bed. It must be remembered that my Choice was determined upon the Subject though I had no so much as laid my Scheme before the hour abovesaid.

1728 January 7 (Sunday). I preach’d on the footnotes on 1 Cor. 6.9.10.11, in the Afternoon on Ps. 60.1.2.

1728 January 11 (Thursday). The Church (at my appointment) came together and I entertain’d them with a Discourse from Acts 6.6 but I left the method we should proceed in to the Church’s Consideration. Afterwards they came down to my house whereby Mr. Asher Rice10 was no small [illegible] about Mr. Josiah Newton.11

1728 January 13 (Saturday). A very Violent storm of Snow. Just before dark Mr. Campbel12 of Oxford came in, being on his journey home. He lodg’d here.

1728 January 16 (Tuesday). David Farrar, Thomas Kendal, Phinehas and Aaron Hardy cut wood.

1728 January 21 (Sunday). I preach’d both fore and after noon from 1Cor. 6.9.10.11. I rode to Mr. Pratts and to Mr. Increase Wards13 and Ballanced with Constable Warrin.14 Mr. Collister15 came with his complaints and witnesses.

1728 January 22 (Monday). I rode to Mr. John Pratt junior where was Captain Fay. With him I had discourse concerning the Sad Broils in the Town. We went to Mr. Thomas Rice’s16 where it was continued till Evening. I rode over to see Mr. Shattuck17 (which was my purpose in coming out) he being in a low state. We return’d to Mr. Rices and then I came home. There I found Father Champney18 and Sister Lydia.19 The Town is in great uneasiness and ready to fall together by the Ears for the management of their military officers but mostly for receiving money for writs and Summons when he had none of the Justice. Hezekiah Pratt and Eleazer Ward cut wood.

1728 January 23 (Tuesday). Father Champney return’d. Mr. Ward sledded the wood, the young men Cut, Several Load.

1728 January 24 (Wednesday). Mr. Campbel preach’d in the forenoon from Jer. [blank]; in the Afternoon from Acts 16.30. On the occasion of the Earthquake. Mr. Thurston came and Sledded 4 more.

1728 January 25 (Thursday). Mr. Campbel left us. A great noise like a gun was heard in the air between 1 and 2 o’Clock in most Towns about us as in ours. The young men came to set up a society. We first pray’d and then I gave them Some Articles to Sign and they Sign’d them. I gave them what Counsel I was able and dismiss’d them.

1728 January 26 (Friday). Mr. John Pratt junior and his brother Eliezer, with Mr. David Goodenow came, two to cut and one with a Team, to Sled wood and they Sledded 15 Small jaggs (their Team being Small But the Team did not tarry till night).

1728 January 28 (Sunday). Diverse young men were with me requesting advice and instruction touching their setting up a private society. I desir’d ‘em to come again on this Sennight. This Eve Mr. Asher Rice and Mr. Josiah Newton were again with me endeavouring something towards their reconciliation, but all means were in vain. Instead of healing new work was made for, Mr. Rice having charg’d Mr. Newton with having (not only deceived in the article they were upon) but a principle of falsehood in his heart, which was so high, and beyond his real intention to Speak, he acknowledg’d it was wrong to Speak So of his brother and was Sorry for what he had said. The Cause was rais’d to a difficult pitch, and little prospect of Concord or Composition. Extream cold. The Earthquake was heard as was reported and Some say, felt this Morning about or just after Break of Day. I preach’d again upon 1 Cor. 6.9.10.11. In admitting [illegible] Tomlin20 to the Church I was So much employ’d in my thoughts by incorporating the Baptismal Covenant and Church Covenant together that I forgot to go to prayer before I baptiz’d Him, which I remain’d thoughtless about till I went up into the Pulpit from the Basen. It put me into a Consternation. I went to Prayer in which I lamented the miscarriage and enlarg’d the Prayer with those petitions that might be proper on this occasion. But I desire to lay my Self low before God for so grievous an omission and would learn hence forward to be more carefull and watchfull but especially more strongly relying on the Divine aid.

1728 January 29 (Monday). Deacon Tomlin21 was with me entreating me to do something about Mr. McCollisters cause with Mr. Newton, before the next Sacrament.

1728 January 30 (Tuesday). I rode to Mr. Behmans,22 and thence (with Mr. Wheeler23) to Marlborough. At Mr. Williams,24 Mr. Breck25 was, and immediately asked me whether I had heard the Earthquake about 3/4 of an hour before (it being then after Two o’clock). I had not heard anything of it. It was heard and felt also by most persons. The Sound was great, and, with many, a shake was distinctly perceiv’d. Some were ready to say that it was heard every day for 4 or 5 dayes last past. Unto the Lord from whom cometh our help.

I had something of Difficulty in my trading with Mr. Williams.

I lodg’d at Mr. Brecks. We discours’d upon the Signs of the Times. We rode to Mr. Woods. A wedding was Solemnized at Mr. Brecks. Samuel Eday26 was joined to Elizabeth Bellows.27 I was compell’d to bear Some part.

1728 January 31 (Wednesday). The morning was very stormy, snow and Rain. But after dinner I rode Home. My Wife told me Mr. Ashur Rice had been here again with a great deal to say about peoples uneasiness at my refusing at least deferring to have a Church Meeting on the account of accommodating the Differences.

[At a later point in the diary Parkman inserted several entries for January, 1728, as follows.]

1728 January 28 (Sunday). It was heard by very many, and

1728 January 30 (Tuesday). Almost all people heard it and many felt it shake the houses.

1728 February 1 (Thursday). I am in great Concern respecting first my own Spiritual State and fearing the Earthquake that great and terrible operation of the Divine Hand has not been so Suitably regarded by me as to produce a due Effect, and The impressions that were made I fear May be Sadly wearing off; and my preparations to meet my God are very low and Scanty.

Secondly. I am concerned in my mind about the Troubles that threaten in this Town. I See my Self unable to manage a Quarrell and very much indispos’d towards it; but especially I would be afraid of the Interest of Religion Suffering; I would dread the Sins and mischiefs my people may be rushing into; and Contention has the blacker aspect in the Day wherein we see Such evident manifestations of the Divine Displeasure upon us.

Whereupon I, in the fear of God, would Set apart this Day, therein to seek the face of God, to avert the Evils threatening, to give me his Grace to quicken me, and savingly to Convert me unto him, to give me a sealed pardon of my sins, and assist me to walk before him according to his most Blessed will; graciously to interpose for his people of this Town and restore peace and unanimity to us (which Blessings, Gods name be praised, that we happily enjoyed so long; and O that God would forgive our misimprovement of them). However, to prepare and accomplish me with wisdom from above, and vouchsafe his immediate assistance and Conduct through all that may be before me; and grant the Issue may be his own Glory. And now the Lord be with me in the Dayes work and Show me his favour for his mercies Sake. Let also these my Endeavours contribute not a little to fit me for waiting upon God in the Solemnities of the Supper of the Lord. I religiously observed the Day according to the abovementioned appointment of it, till I was interrupted by Mr. Tainter28 who came from the Private Meeting (about 3 p.m.) desiring me to go to their Assistance in the Exercises. I went and Entertained my hearers with my Discourse (Sometime Since publickly deliver’d) upon Hoseah 4.12. So that I had nevertheless, Opportunity to carry along the Private Designs abovesaid. At least they (I took care) were not forgotten or neglected. I had design’d for the Sake of promoting peace among my Brethren, to have gone to them in the Evening and I therefore Desired them to take all Suitable Methods for pacification and Reconciliation. Mr. Newton29 was gone home but Asher Rice immediately Step’d forward full of his bitter case, but was almost immediately oppos’d by Ensign Newton, and then almost everyone in the Room engag’d in an unsuitable Clamour, which it was hard to lay. The Subject was that a Church meeting would alone help our State and was the only method that could be taken. But at length by Mr. Bradishes30 urging it that “inasmuch as it could not be Expected to have a Church Meeting before the Sacrament he thought our present Duty was to Endeavour if possible to obtain that Christian Disposition that might qualifie us to come acceptably to God and comfortably to ourselves; or however to prosecute these Ends as far as we could in doing what was to be done, and after the Sacrament if need were he would advise to discourse about a Church Meeting or what else was Suitable.” I thought it Sage and Sat in with it and entreated for a composure and sedateness of Spirit as considering how holy the order we were to put our Selves into preparation for. I ask’d whether they were so disquieted that they could not in a Christian Temper Sit down at the approaching ordinance. Though I had no direct answer yet I found that many of the Church would be disquieted if Mr. Newton should be there; and Some, on the other Hand, would be disquieted if Mr. McCollister and Rice31 should be present. I advised and Entreated therefore that a person or Two Should be with those three men together and improve the Time and their utmost Skill to compose them, And if no Methods could be Successfull, I desir’d those 3 persons to absent themselves from this administration rather than disturb the whole communion. And so requested nothing more might pass among us this Night but what might be of an healing and salving nature. And this met with universal acceptance and thereupon we broke up. So that I hope there was Some happy issue and Effect, notwithstanding that unlikely view I had in the foregoing part of the Evening. To God be the Glory of any Good enabled from him to do. And I hope it was not altogether without Benefit and Comfort in my own Soul that this Day has been set apart; though too much reason to reflect on my own unstableness and inexpertness, thro’ which if it had not been, perhaps I had reap’d more the Mercy of God through the Merits of Christ vouchsafe Remission.

1728 February 2, 3 (Friday, Saturday). Prepar’d for the Sabbath but not without Troublesome casts doubting of a Reconciliation between those foresaid Dissenting persons, and Sorrowing that Things should be brought to that pitch among us already that any of us should be oblig’d to withdraw from the Sacrament through want of Peace and Christian agreement. Tabitha Hardy32 with me.

1728 February 4 (Sunday). I preach’d from [blank]. Mr. Newton withdrawing (the other Two I believe were not at meeting) was a melancholly Sight to me. I administer’d the Sacrament. I hope God was convers’d with. For any Communications I would praise his Name But I would humble my Self that I receiv’d no more Spiritual Benefit. In the Afternoon I preach’d upon the Same Text.

1728 February 10 (Saturday). Mr. Jonathan Forbush came and requested I would go See his Son in law Isaac Shattuck before He dy’d, and gave me his sons Earnest Desire to see me. Accordingly I went. Found him low and decay’d in Body, almost beyond all Hopes, But with great Encouragement touching Eternall matters. Having discours’d and pray’d with him I took my leave.

1728 February 11 (Sunday). I preach’d upon Isaiah 1.4 a. and p.m. After the Exercises Sister Lydia rode with me to see Mr. Shattuck, Found him living and that appear’d to be all. Scarcely speaking but manifesting great ground of hope through almighty grace of God thro’ the merits of Christ. We thought he began to Change. We pray’d recomending him to God and his family to the Divine grace and protection in as brief an address as posible. I took my last leave. Returning Sister Lydia fell from the horse but more surpriz’d than dammag’d. At our house was Mr. Bows33 who had preach’d at Southborough on the Day past.

1728 February 12 (Monday). I rode down with Mr. Bows to Cambridge, dining at Mr. Jonsons34 of Southborough and calling in likewise at Mr. Briton’s35 of the Same Town and at Mr. Williams36 at Weston.

1728 February 13 (Tuesday). Mr. Isaac Greenwood37 was inaugurated in the College Hall, the overseers and a great number of Gentlemen being present and handsomely entertain’d at Dinner after. In the Exercise Mr. Flynt38 first pray’d and then made a Latin oration. The statutes of his founder read. The oaths were administered and he made his Declaration according to Mr. Hollis’s Statutes that he would religiously observe them, and Mr. Greenwood made an handsome Oration in Latin. Mr. Flynt renunciated or openly declar’d Mr. Greenwood Professor of Mathematicks and Naturall and Experimental Phylosophy according to Mr. Hollis’s institution. Mr. Appleton39 pray’d and we in Conclusion Sang Ps. 104, the 1st and 2 last Stanzas of Tate and Brady’s Version. It was a Day of Solemnity and great Joy, and I hope Glory was given to God. I tarried at College chiefly with Mr. Greenwood till time to repair to Lodgings at Father Champney’s. I was at College at Mr. Greenwoods over a Dish of Tea, Stay’d till Sundown and then I went to Boston. Kept my Horse at Mr. Goldthwaits. The Great Dr. Cotton Mather dy’d this morning 4 a.m. after Suffering of an asthma.

1728 February 15 (Thursday). Mr. Colman40 preach’d Dr. Mathers funeral Sermon from Gen. 5.24. I went in the Evening to Mr. Gerrish’s41 Retail. Here was Mr. Sewal,42 Mr. Prince,43 Mr. Cooper44 and Mr. Foxcroft. After Candle Light I rode out of Town, to Cambridge upon my journey home. Here I found my wife and Son who were brought down yesterday by William Clark of Westborough. It rain’d So I was detain’d. Now I had opportunity to see much of Father Champney’s Methods which were much out of due Course through the violence of a Fever many years agoe. Great grief and Concern in the Family.

1728 February 17 (Saturday). It Storn’d So that I was utterly prevented moving from the house, either to Westborough or to Boston.

1728 February 18 (Sunday). Mr. Appleton a.m. on Eccl. 7.2 for That is the End of all men. I preach’d p.m. from Acts 24.16. Supp’d at Mr. Appletons. Mr. Marston Gibs and Fitch45 of Piscataqua there, and afterwards Mr. Remington,46 Mr. Wigglesworth47 and Sir Rogers.48 I return’d to Father Champney’s at nine.

1728 February 19 (Monday). I rode to Boston to Dr. Mathers Funerall. It look’d very Sad—almost as if it were the funerall of the Country. A very Sad Breach. Of for Sufficient portions of Gods Spirit upon surviving ministers! Vast Concourse Exceeding long Procession and numberless Spectators. Every heart Sad. This Evening at cousin Dorcas Bows49 where was Mrs. Rebecca Adams and by and by Brother Samuell Parkman.

1728 February 20 (Tuesday). An Appointment to go to Salem. Brother Elias and his wife went over. I rode from Charleston to Mores at Lyn, where I met them. But sister Willard50 being gone to Boston we returned back. Dr. Delhond, etc., in Company.

1728 February 21 (Wednesday). Stormy. But yet I rode to Cambridge with Father Champney who ferry’d his horse over though it was grown Dark.

1728 February 22 (Thursday). I was much detain’d the forenoon by making writings, Deed, Bonds, Etc. Father Champney bying woodland of Cousin Daniel Champneys Children. I stop’d at Mr. Williams’s a little while, but it began to Snow and I hastened. The Storm increas’d greatly So that night coming on also I turn’d away to Mr. Winchesters,51 and lodg’d there.

1728 February 23 (Friday). The Morning was much worse till near Eleven, and though the wind was very high and the snow blowing very much, yet the Clouds began to grow thinner. He rode with me into the Road, the Paths being very much blown up and indeed the Roads too. I met with great Difficulties. I hardly reach’d Mr. Moss’s where I had refreshment for my Self and horse, and a Young Man offer’d to ride with me. We reach’d Mr. Nathan Brighams,52 refresh’d again, and Mr. Brigham rode up into this Town. But it was a Sad time to be abroad in, the Snow being very deep and great Danger if happening out of the Path and yet the Path almost wholly blown up. But through the Divine Goodness I arrived without Damage and found my people well. Deo opt. nostro grates.

1728 February 24 (Saturday). I went on with my Preparations.

1728 February 25 (Sunday). Ps. 60.1.2 both a. and p.m. Isaac Shattuck died last Wednesday was Sennight. A good Character of his last minutes. Mr. Barrett53 and presently Dr. Gott, came to see me. Dr. Gott54 left us this eve.

1728 February 29 (Thursday). Mr. Barrett return’d home.

1728 March 3 (Sunday). I preach’d on Is. 1.4, both a. and p.m. I was not a little affected in the afternoon. I request of God to make these sermons profitable to my Self as well as to others that I may deplore my own Iniquities with which as I have been laden with the guilt of them. So God grant that I may be after a godly Sort weary and heavy laden, so under a sense of them that I may be a true mourner for the Sins of others and lament over the Calamities of the Land!

1728 March 4 (Monday). My wife and Child brought home by brother Champney. It was a warm Day, the Snow therefore Soft and the wayes heavy and tiresome, but (Thanks to God alone) got home well. Dr. Gott here but not a long time.

1728 March 5 (Tuesday). I was at Mr. Newtons55 where was The Ensign56 and we had pritty much Discourse about our Troubles in Town and the Ensign Said Things had never laid Easy with a certain person ever Sins [sic] Our church Covenant was chosen and my refusing a Quitclaim to Mr. Elmer,57 which that person had himself written and offer’d me to sign; and that Things Still lay brooding, etc.

1728 March 6 (Wednesday). Brother Champney went home. In the Afternoon Mr. Thomas Forbush58 was here on the Business of his Children, parted quiet though there had been Some warm Discourse. Just after I was got to Bed (about 3/4 after Eleven) we were afrighted by the awfull sound of the Earthquake. All that were awake heard it. I lay awake an hour and half, but hearing nothing I Compos’d to sleep. God be prais’d from my Soul for his wonderous Deliverances. Let me never forget his Benefits.

1728 March 7 (Thursday). It being Family meeting at Mr. Forbush’s and earnestly desir’d by him to be present thereat I went to Mr. Forbush’s and repeated a Discourse from John [blank]. After the Exercises Mr. McCollister and Asher Rice requested a Church Meeting which I comply’d with, that is to See whether the Church would consider and Act upon it seeing it is a mix’d Case, etc. Visit’d Lieutenant’s59 wife who was very low. Riding home Mr. Wheeler set forth the uneasiness people were in on the account of Mr. Newton,60 and that some, truly, could be scarcely kept from falling upon my Self Seeing I would not let it come forward, whereas I had alwayes declar’d that I waited for nothing more than to have it brought into a proper fitness for the Church to hear. Captain Fay61 and his wife, Wheeler and James Ball stopt at my house.

1728 March 8, 9 (Friday, Saturday). I was full of Concern and hearty Prayer on account of the threatening Evils.

1728 March 10 (Sunday). Not very well in the morning and at noon but God strengthening I went through the Exercises. Preach’d a. and p.m. from Isa. 1.5. Church meeting appointed. Full of hearty Concern and I hope mainly for the Glory of God and the Interests of the Souls of Men, for I find no great value for whatever Temporal Interests I can find in this Town.62

1728 March 11 (Monday). The Church met. I had great fear of disorder, but by the favour of God we went on smooth. Mr. Forbush, just before meeting began, told me I should have wisdom to take Care of my Self but people Said now Mr. Parkman’s undone—but this person has frequently enough shown that his Passions forc’d him to Speak what makes much mischief, though the most ungrounded. I having given a Serious Discourse to keep us all upon our guard in all church matters and Read the Platform Ch. 10. I laid open the case and advis’d first to an arbitration. It was accepted by all. The chief trouble was to find arbitrators. Mr. Bradish excepted against Peres Rice.63 Said Mr. Newton had bragg’d he had got Mr. Parkman and Mr. Bradish of his Side and he car’d not for all the Church besides. This Information he said came from John Eames of Hopkinton. Mr. Newton declar’d he spake no Such thing nor had he seen John Eames. I openly clear’d my Self from being of either side and by Gods Grace I will remain impartial. The Arbitrators went out and took up the Time. When they came in they declar’d it their Opinion that if Mr. Newton had taken the money by deceit he should return it, but they enquired whether they ought to bring it to Trial whether he had deceiv’d, etc. I reply’d their work was yet to do. I desir’d they would go on and finish it this Evening or Some day Speedily—for they ought to clear off all that was of a Secular Nature in the Cause. It grew Dark. There was opposition by Peres Rice that the witnesses ought to be sworn, etc. I dismiss’d this Business and propos’d another affair for the Church’s Consideration, Advice and Concurrence in. That is the Case of Samuel Hardy and his Wife, etc. I desir’d the Brethren would give me their minds and make what opposition they would ever offer. When one or Two had spoke Peres Rice (who gave us more Trouble than any one this meeting) Said he thought we must either wait till the Civil part of the Case was dispatch’d, till either the Court had done with it or rather till it had been put to an arbitration (reflecting upon the manner of managing the other Business of his Brother Asher and Newton), but (thought there’s difficulty in keeping our Selves under Suitable Command under such girds) I calmly assur’d him it was a far different Case, etc.

The Church gave their Consent to my Proceeding with the said persons and granting them Priviledges if they should Seriously declare their innocence, etc., upon which we clos’d the Meeting. After prayer Asher desir’d it might still go on that He might be heard in what he had of a Distinct Case to be Heard. I told him the meeting was over. What if the Brethren Should hear it? I am indispos’d but they may mediate between you when I am retir’d home. It Satisfy’d him and the Church might, etc. His Speaking the word church confirmed me in it that he thought it would be as much the Church that would act in the Evening upon anything he should bring before them (as much I say) as before the prayer and Blessing and dismission of the meeting, and as much in my absence as when I was there. So that my Reply was thus, viz. But observe, it hasn’t been known that a Church can act (as a Church) without the Pastor, or make acts without the Pastor, which dash’d the whole and I returned home desiring the Arbitrators to finish their work as [soon as] possible and give me notice of it and when they Should desire it there might be (if needfull) another Church Meeting. Diverse came into my house with me. Mr. Tainter Supp’d with me. He agreed to keep my mare, I being short of Hay. Thus finish’d this troublesome Day. My Soul praise the Lord for his gracious assistances and Restraints; and the Lord forgive Every offence by me, and all the offences of my Brethren this Day! For Scarcely do any come off innocent when involv’d in Dissensions.

1728 March 13 (Wednesday). I sent my Mare to Mr. Tainters to be kept at his Stable. In the Evening at Mr. Forbush with demands upon Samuel Hardy and his Wife touching their Child, and upon the midwife, etc., etc. Call’d to see Lieutenant’s wife.

Read Dr. Sherlock on Divine Providence.64

1728 March 14 (Thursday). Mr. Eager65 with me in the Evening till late. Discourse the Quarrell with Mr. Newton. It was to have been our Lecture but, the above Said Troubles happening, and Mr. Barrett who was to have assisted me Sending word that He could not attend it, but Especially my Seeing reason for deferring the Sacrament, I put it by.

1728 March 17 (Sunday). I preach’d on Mat. 10.29.30.

1728 March 18 (Monday). It appears to me of the Last Importance for the people of this Province to take heed to them Selves when they are proposing Holy Dayes to be kept unto God, for without they are duly observed they are Such grand pieces of Solemn Mockery that I cannot but Think God is greatly provok’d by them. They are Loathsome to him and he is weary to bear them. I cannot but conclude that one of the great Reasons of the Lords Controversie with this Land is taken from Hence. O therefore that Care may be taken about the Approaching Fast that it may not be in vain but a Fast that God hath Chosen!

1728 March 21 (Thursday). Publick Fast. I preach’d all Day upon Hosea 13.9. I would Lament that there are So many others that profane these Dayes of our Solemn Assemblies, but I have chiefly Reason to Reflect upon and condemn my Self who have not been suitably prepar’d for, nor have been So full and Sincere in my Humiliation to Day as I ought to have been.

1728 March 22 (Friday). Mr. Coolidge66 (having preach’d at Southborough yesterday) came up to see me, being conducted up by Mr. William Johnson, Junior,67 who last night as he was, with Mr. Bigolo, at their Saw-Mill, was Surprised with a very Conspicuous Aurora Borealis. Mr. Coolidge desir’d to Change with me the Sabbath Approaching and truly it was not unacceptable to me Seeing the Labors of this week have been already very great. And a person Sick at Mr. Thorntons whom I was requested to visit yesterday. When Mr. Collidge left me I rode from home to see Mr. Thorntons Daughter who was very Sick. At Mr. Eagers was Mr. Benjamin Flagg of Worcester who inform’d me of Mr. Elmer’s Death.

1728 March 23 (Saturday). Josiah Newton and John McCollister came to our house to hear the Arbitration of their Case, which the Arbitrators had sent by Edward Baker this morning. They (after I had discours’d a while with them) were heartily and lovingly reconcil’d (as things appear’d). I had some difficulty with Mrs. Byles68 about her sons Child, as I told her of the various objections I met with to oppose my Baptizing it as Deacon Tomlins,69 Mr. Wheelers70 and Bakers,71 etc. Mr. Collidge being come hither I rode to Southborough and Lodg’d at Mr. William Johnsons.

1728 March 24 (Sunday). I preach’d at Southborough in the forenoon from John 15.14. Din’d at Mr. [blank] Johnsons. I preach’d in the afternoon from Ps. 95.7. Mr. Collidge came to Southborough in the Evening.

1728 March 25 (Monday). Mr. Coolidge and I rode to Marlborough. Upon the Road he gave me some account of the Sin and Misfortunes of Mr. Samuel Jeffords72 at Wells. I lodg’d at Mr. Brecks.73 I took advice of Mr. Breck touching our Affairs at Westborough.

1728 March 26 (Tuesday). Return’d to Westborough.

1728 March 27 (Wednesday). Great Disquietments among us. I had trouble enough Every Day and Yet all that came to Me had the Reconciliation of our Two Brethren read to them (as those Brethren desir’d it might be) and Every person went away with the greatest Satisfaction. It was Suspected that I favour’d Mr. Newton which (if I can judge) I acted against, and was full in it that he ought to give Satisfaction to those he had offended for the wrong done them by Him.

1728 March 28 (Thursday). I Rode (with my wife) to Shrewsbury upon my Young Horse, and being disappointed by both Mr. and Mrs. Cushings74 absence from Home we presently returned to Westborough, but not home, we having determined to Visit Mr. Paterson. We went not only there [entry ends incomplete at this point].

1728 June 13 (Thursday). Thomas Kendal began to work for me.

1728 June 15 (Saturday). Thomas Kendal had my Mare to go down to Lexington.

1728 June 16 (Sunday). [No entry.]

1728 June 17 (Monday). [No entry.]

1728 June 18 (Tuesday). I preach’d at the Young mens meeting at Mr. Wards.

1728 July 1 (Monday). [No entry.]

1728 July 2 (Tuesday). [No entry.]

1728 July 3 (Wednesday). My wife and Children were brought up in a Calash with brother Champney75 and Sister Lydia.76

1728 July 4 (Thursday). I lectured on Isa. 26.9.

1728 July 5 (Friday). Brother and Sister rode down in the Calash.

1728 July 6 (Saturday). My interruptions have been very great; but God graciously assists me.

1728 July 7 (Sunday). I preach’d all Day upon Phil. 3.8.9.10.11, and in the forenoon I adminstered the Sacrament of the Lords Supper.

1728 July 9 (Tuesday). Mrs. Burt77 came for her Daughter.78

1728 July 10 (Wednesday). Mrs. Burt carry’d away her Daughter. A great Affliction to us.

1728 July 11, 12, 13 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday). It was a time of much Trouble and Concern with us respecting our weakhandedness.

1728 July 14 (Sunday). I preach’d all Day on Phil. 3.8.9.10.ll.

1728 July 15 (Monday). I rode to Cambridge with Neighbor Green.79 Found nobody at Father Champneys but sister Hannah80 just when I was going away and there came two men that would go in for Cyder. I went in again and tarried till they went away. I rode with them to Boston. Trouble Brother Samuell81 and Mr. Dorcas.82

1728 July 16, 17 (Tuesday, Wednesday). I visited my Relatives and acquaintances. At Mr. Thatchers.83

1728 July 18 (Thursday). Mr. Sewall preach’d Excellently from Ps. 119.115. Occasion, Phillips and Woodbridge Duel.84 At Mr. Wilsteeds in the Eve. Here was Mr. Joseph Green85 of Barnstable. The Governours86 coming in Everyones motions. His Excellency’s Family came to Dr. Cooks this Eve.

1728 July 19 (Friday). A very great Day. His Excellency’s Entrance into Boston was truly very Stately and Splendid. I was at Mr. Eliots.87 I din’d at Holmes’s.88 Sister Lydia rode with me to Cambridge. Earthquake at Newbury, etc.

1728 July 20 (Saturday). I rode up home. Got home a little after noon. Prepar’d what I could for the Sabbath. I praise God for his goodness this Journey.

1728 July 21 (Sunday). I preach’d in the forenoon on Phil. 3.8.9.10.11. Afternoon repeated the Sermon (Numb. 28) on Prov. 10.28.

1728 July 22 (Monday). I rode up to see Mrs. Nurse89 who Suffer’d by a fall into the Cellar. Earthquake at Boston, at Newbury, as far as York, and many think it was then heard among us.

[In another part of the diary the following note appears:]

July 22 [1728]. At Boston a small shock but at Newbury the houses shook. Some thought they heard it among us at the Same time, viz. about break of Day. I am apt to think I heard it myself.

1728 July 23 (Tuesday). I rode to Mr. Barretts90 but found him not, He being over at Holliston.

1728 July 24, 25, 26, 27 (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday). As much time as I had spent upon my preparations but I was greatly taken off by the affairs of my house and of this Busy Season abroad.

1728 July 28 (Sunday). I preach’d all Day on Gen. 18.25. Mr. Nurse ill and distracted was at our house when meeting was closing, and till our Evening Exercise was over. I was in no little concern of mind about the Earthquakes Continuing.

1728 July 29 (Monday). I assisted with my own hands in the Carting, etc.

1728 July 30 (Tuesday). Having got in my Hay, Rice, Barley, and Wheat, I dismiss’d Thomas Kendal for a while. Now we are intirely alone having no Servant nor any one in the House. Our Loneliness gives Scope for Thought. God Sanctifie our solitude, and help us to improve in acquaintance with Himself. There was much Lighting in the North almost the whole Evening.

1728 July 31 (Wednesday). A very hot Day. About 11 at Night came up a storm of Rain with Thunder and Lightning.

1728 August 1 (Thursday). Mr. Flynt91 and Mr. Greenwood92 (who had taken a Circular Ride) came to See us. Our sisters Lydia and Ruth93 and Kinswomen Mrs. Abigail and Susan Champney94 came likewise.

1728 August 2 (Friday). Mr. Flynt and Greenwood rode to Marlborough. The rest tarry’d. Sister Ruth and the rest (except Sister Lydia) left us. These Dayes were very hot.

1728 August 4 (Sunday). I preach’d from Gen. 18.25, and from Ps. 119.68.

1728 August 6 (Tuesday). Early in the morning Sister Lydia and I rode (single) to Cambridge, from whence I proceeded to Boston.

1728 August 7 (Wednesday). I went to See Mr. Miles’s95 Library. His widow show’d me her house and Garden.

1728 August 8 (Thursday). I entered into Obligation to my Father for the Negro Barrow. My Father gave me 5£. I pay’d him 3£ and gave a promissory Bill to pay 66£, the whole making 74£ which was the price of him.

[From the New-Egland Weekly Journal, Mar. 25, 1728, p. [2]: “A parcel of likely Negro Boys, and one Girl, arrived from Nevis, and were brought from Guinea, to be Sold by Mr. Henry Richards, at the House of Mr. Elias Parkman Mast-maker at the North End, where the Negroes may be seen.”]

Mr. Cooper96 Lectur’d on Job 37.16. I din’d at Mr. Coopers, Mr. Thatcher and Mr. Byles97 also.

1728 August 9 (Friday). I rode to Cambridge, Barrow, alias Maro, running on foot. Though somewhat rainy, it clear’d away after noon. After 4 o’Clock I set out, my Self on one horse and the Negro on the other. At Larnards98 met Mr. Swift.99 Rode to Mr. Swifts and lodged there.

1728 August 10 (Saturday). We rode home by a little after noon. Prepar’d somewhat upon John 1.46 and carry’d on the Exercises with the Applicatory Considerations in the Sermons on John 12.26.

1728 August 12 (Monday). I was at Lieutenant Forbes’s,100 his wife being very ill.

1728 August 13 (Tuesday). There arose a storm of Thunder and Lightning in the Night.

1728 August 14 (Wednesday). About 2 in the morning the Thunder and Lightning were very Sharp and terrifying. Neither was it a Crack or Flash or Two, but it continued for (I Suppose) an hour and half exceeding dreadfull. Once it was So hard Thunder that the house Jarr’d in some sort as in an Earthquake.

Mr. Rice was here, and Goddard101 from College. The latter Said the people of Framingham entertain’d disaffections to Mr. Swift. My heart is mov’d greatly; and I think merely for the Cause of God in these melancholly and divided Times.

1728 August 15, 16, 17 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday). The Remaining Dayes of the Week I abode more strictly by my Preparations for the Sabbath. Late on Saturday Night I was Sent for by Lieutenant Forbes to his wife who departed this Life (a little before 12 o’clock) before I could get to the house. A very meek, patient, Godly person, under the sufferings She bore through most of her Life, by Sickness and weakness.

1728 August 18 (Sunday). I preach’d from Ps. 119.68 both forenoon and afternoon.

1728 August 19 (Monday). Mrs. Forbes was buried. A Large funerall; many people from Marlborough being up here. Mr. Foxcroft102 of Boston, Esquire Pool103 of Reading and Lieutenant How of Framingham came to our house and lodged with us.

1728 August 20 (Tuesday). Those Gentlemen rode away to Leicester to be (with others) a Council upon the Difficulties of that people. Mr. Swift of Framingham, Elder Lymen and Mr. Loring of Boston came but rode quickly away upon the lastnam’d Concern. Esquire Pools advice and offers respecting Mrs. Burt.

1728 August 22 (Thursday). Our Father and mother Champney, with aunt Champney104 and her son John105 came to See us.

1728 August 23 (Friday). Mr. Winchester106 came to wait upon his mother in law back to Framingham.

1728 August 24 (Saturday). Mr. Baxter107 and his messinger came hither from the Council, with word that they had stood out the hearing but had drawn up no Result—but had appointed to meet at Sudbury to finish the Affair.

1728 August 25 (Sunday). I preach’d a.m. on Ps. 119.68, and administered the Sacrament. I preach’d p.m. on 1 Cor. 10.16. I have no slender Reason to lament my insensibility, indolence and utter unfruitfullness under all Gods Goodness to me; and it is nothing else but the infinite Mercy of God to poor sinners, his infinite Patience and Compassion towards us under our manifest infirmities that has brought me to the Sacrament for my Conduct is Such that my unprofitableness and indifference might utterly debar me and leave me discouraged.

1728 August 26 (Monday). Father and Mother Champney returned home.

1728 August 27 (Tuesday). Under the Engagements of my Family by reason of our want to Help, our Negro being New, I am much taken off from my Work, but I trust in God it may be better with me and more leasure ere long.

1728 August 28, 29, 30, 31 (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday). Much Concern in the minds of all people throughout the Province on the account of the Difficulties at Court about settling the Governours Sallery. And no prospect of its being any better between the Governour and the Lower House. Indeed the Governour has always been fair and pleasant and is not willing to make Complaint against the Province. But his Instructions from his Majesty oblige him to move in this Manner and the House think they loose all Priviledges if they comply. Its a difficult Time respecting our Credit in England, but the Heavens do rule. God gives us Wisdom and turneth the Heart of the King which way Soever He will.

1728 September 1 (Sunday). I preach’d upon Isa. 31.2. I have great experience of the Divine Compassion showed me under my insufficiency and great unworthiness, in that he so graciously assists me in the performances of my Sacred function. God alone have the Praise. God keep me from Vain Glory.

1728 September 2 (Monday). Mr. Thomas Weld108 (having preach’d yesterday at Southborough) came to see me, and lodg’d with us.

1728 September 3 (Tuesday). Mr. Weld rode with me to Framingham, expecting an Association. It was very rainy and very troublesome getting there; and yet we were disappointed through Mr. Swifts mistake. He had told his Family that the Association would be there next week; and so he went to Sudbury to the Council upon the Difficulties at Leicester. Mr. Cushing was thus disappointed with us, and we rode away to Colonel Buckminsters109 and lodged there.

1728 September 4 (Wednesday). This morning after breakfast we rode from Colonel Buckminsters to Marlborough and din’d at Mr. Woods.110 Thence Mr. Weld and I went first to Mr. Brecks door but he being gone to the foresaid council we went with Mr. Park111 to his Lodgings. With Mr. Park there was Sir Kent,112 Schoolmaster at Framingham. Near Sunset we parted and I Came home. On the Road home I had many Reflections upon My Life Past, the unusefullness and unprofitableness of it. I was griev’d at my taking no better notice of the divine Dealings with me. I was jealous of my Self and Suspected whether there was not some undue End in taking the accounts in this Book, Seeing this Design had no better Success. I would humbly hope that the Glory of God and my Spiritual Emolument has and shall determine me in the writing this Journal. I was full of Enquiry how I should best Spend the Morrow to the Glory of the God of my Life and my highest Advantage. I resolv’d in the Fear and by the Grace of God to Separate the Day to Seeking the Face of God, and Enquiring out as under the divine Influence, the best Methods for the Conduct of the Future part of my Life, Respecting my whole Behaviour, and proceedings, in my Secret Walk, in my Studies, in my ministrations, and my Several Relations. And the Spirit of God purifie, Sanctifie, Assist and direct me, and grant his Blessing upon me in the Prosecution of this my Purpose!

N.B. See for the 5th Day, the Beginning of the Book entitled Some Remarkable Passages, etc.113

[Entries for September, 1728, end at this point. There is then a blank page in the diary, and then the following undated entry:]

Several gracious Promises of God. Ps. 32.8. I will instruct thee, and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine Eyes.

Zech. 10.12. And I will Strengthen them in the Lord, and they Shall walk up and down in the name of the Lord.

September 5th [1728] (Wednesday). At Westborough.114

This being my Birth Day it may be a most proper Season to look back upon my Life Past, that I may See what account I may give unto the Great Judge of all the Earth. What penitence and Contrition I ought to express for the many Sins of my Conversation in the world the Twenty-five years that I have liv’d in it, and What Praises I owe to the God of my Life for the innumerable and unspeakable Benefits he has most bountifully (though most undeservedly) bestowed upon me. I deem it suitable also and prudent to take this Time especially to renew my Covenant with my God, which I solemnly entered into before Him on September 5 in the year 1719. Furthermore it is most proper now to be anew proposing methods of future Conduct, that the future part of my Life may be more profitable, and fruitfull than the former has ever been.

Accordingly I committed my Self to God in a solemn address, and besought his direction and assistance in the Several parts of this important work above mention’d. And then I proceeded to look into my Life past where I discern’d innumerable articles that require deep Repentance—among the rest my Sad misimprovement of my Time in my Youth, as appears by the papers that give an account of the past of my Conversation. It must be Judg’d from the Said Papers that my Course of Life has been full of Impertinencies, except I was to Live Some Centuries. Then indeed it might prove more Excusable to take my methods to know men and Things (as my pretence was); or it had perhaps been laudable to Spend a Month or some Small part of ones whole Life in this manner. I consum’d a great part of my Time. I Endeavour’d to affect my Self with Grief herefore and proceeded with Exercises of fervent Devotion, Reading the Divine Oracles and Serious Meditations, I carried on the Day till 3 p.m., when Mr. Wheeler came, and I went with him to Captain Fays to the Private Meeting. I went in while the Captain was at Prayer. Our Exercise was upon Col. 3.4. Christ who in our Life. I chose this because I would have Christ to be my Life, and I would be quickened and instructed at this season to live to him. God give me Grace to do so! I spent the day throughout as a Day of Devotion, and I beseech God to accept me herein. But I was not able to go through all my Proposal about Searching out the Suitable methods of future Conduct. These I deferr’d to the first opportunity I may have therefor. Nor did I draw out in writing what I could remember of the mercies of God to me and my Family, But I propos’d to do [so] as Speedily as my Circumstances will favour me. My Covenant with God was not solemnly renewed in that express manner I had propos’d but read over and anew consented to. But a reason of its not being So expressly renewed might be my apprehending it convenient to transcribe a Covenant Somewhat more Correct, which I would Solemnly Sign before God (having some regard to the Directions of Mr. Alliene,115 in his sure Guide to Heaven, Dis: x, p. 127, Edition at London anno 1705, in that affair).

O Glorious God in Trinity, I pray Thee be my covenant God!

I do now Solemnly Take Thee, O ETERNAL FATHER, to be my God, my Father, my Friend, and my only Portion. I take Thee O ETERNAL SON, to be my God, my only Mediator and Redeemer.

I take Thee O ETERNAL SPIRIT to be my God, my Guide, my Sanctifyer and Comforter.

And I Sacredly Devote and Dedicate my Self wholly, Soul and Body, all the Powers and Faculties, all the Members and organs of Each, to Thee, the one onely living and true God, to be Thy Servant, Renouncing all my Sins and Lusts my Self, the world, the Flesh and the Devil, and humbly beseeching the Pardon of all the Violations of all my Former Covenants and Obligations, with all my other Iniquities, through Jesus Christ, I consecrate my Self to THEE alone. And Promise, by thy Grace, to perform the Duties of my holy Christian Profession, and to Discharge my ministerial work. To ratifie which, I subscribe, with my Heart and Hand, humbly, and I trust, Sincerely, Ebenezer Parkman. Westborough November 24, 1729. Renew’d January 1, 1730 and This Transcript made January 3.

Some Rules for my Conduct in my Religious, Ministerial, Civil, Domestic, and Relative Life.

1. I would that my Eyes and Heart by carry’d to God at first Waking; That every Morning when I awaken I may be Still with God, as God is Still with me.

2. That nothing be undertaken which may defer my early sett, Solemn Morning Devotions to God, that I may be sure to begin the Day with God, set out in his Fear, and Spend it to his Glory.

3. When I rise from Dinner Let the first Opportunity be laid hold of for a solemn Address to God.

4. Let there be some Serious Reflections in the Evening and a solemn Address to God—closing my Eyes with recommending my Self to the Lord my Keeper, who is the Great Keeper of Israel, who never slumbers nor sleeps.