Diary of Ebenezer Parkman, 1744

1744 January 1 (Sunday). If I have heretofore taken Some Notice of the wondrous Patience and Longsuffering of God towards me in Time past, what far more increas’d Reason to now! O that Since God is vouchsafing and protecting His rich Mercys to me, it might please Him to add This Great Mercy to all the other Grace to enable me to make a right Improvement thereof! The Thoughts and Conversation of People Seem to be very much engross’d by the Appearing and Continuance of the Comet in the West. I think it the largest that I have ever Seen, and that it comes Nearer and Nearer to the Earth. I desire it may put me in Mind of the Greatness, Glory and Power, and the wisdom and So great Dominion of the infinite God whose works these are; And that I may bring to remembrance and have an abiding sense of that Day that Shall burn as an Oven, when this Earth also shall be sett on Fire and, all the wicked shall be Consumed. Mal. 4.1. 2 Epistle of Pet. 3.7. I preach’d on Col. 1.21. Mr. Coolidge though in town yet not well nor at meeting.

1744 January 2 (Monday). Mr. Garfield of Shrewsbury here. Conversation mainly of the State of Religion in these Times.

1744 January 3 (Tuesday). Was to have assisted Mr. Cushing in keeping a Fast at the House of one Samuel Brown in Shrewsbury, who is in a distress’d if not distracted Frame and has been so for Several Years without Relief. But it was Such a storm of Snow that I was prevented. Short of Wood but Nathan Maynard kindly helpfull in Splitting what was at the Door, etc.

1744 January 4 (Wednesday). Nathan Maynard, Daniel Bellows,1 Benjamin Whipple2 and [blank] came and got me a present Supply of wood. P.M. Colonel Nahum Ward3 here. Seems to have a Concern about Religion. At Eve Abner Maynard4 of Shrewsbury here and brought me a Token of respect from the Society I had lately preach’d to in that town. 20 shillings old Tenor from these Lads.

1744 January 5 (Thursday). Preach’d at the private Meeting at Deacon Forbush’s on Matt. 11.26. N.B. Lieutenant Tainter sick. N.B. after Meeting relating the Story of Mercy Wheeler5 of Plainfield her wonderful Recovery, Mrs. Whitney Scarcely Contains. [?] N.B. My wife went with me and we were at old Mr. Rice’s in the Evening.

1744 January 6 (Friday). I have been acquainting myself somewhat with that Excellent Man’s Life and writings Mr. Robert Bolton.6 May God Bless them to my highest Good!

1744 January 7 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1744 January 8 (Sunday). Col. 1.21, a. and p.m. Mr. Coollidge7 here.

1744 January 9 (Monday). Another fruitless Town Meeting, concerning My Support and Dividing the Town. This Meeting was oversatt by the plan that several Men were not Warned. Brother Hicks here and lodged. I had Some perplexity by Means of Neighbour John Rogers his having promis’d me money and continually Disappointed me.

1744 January 10 (Tuesday). Dr. Smith here and din’d with us. P.M. I visited the Wife of Mr. Samuel Fay junior who has been long confin’d.

1744 January 11 (Wednesday). Pleasant Day again.

1744 January 12 (Thursday). A Lecture to young People on Prov. 7.7, and by my Closeness upon them with respect to Unclean Practices, and the [illegible] of Behaviour among Youth which lead thereto.

1744 January 13 (Friday). We kill’d a second Hogg, Weight 265, by Neighbour Ebenezer Maynard and Thomas Winchester.

1744 January 14 (Saturday). Thomas Winchester cutts Wood for me in Neighbour Chamberlains Name Gratis.

1744 January 15 (Sunday). On Coloss. 1.21, a.m. On Prov. 7.7, p.m. Mr. Coollidge here.

1744 January 16 (Monday). Cold, Windy. Neighbour Wheeler here, he brought 2 Bushels of Rie at 16 shillings per Bushel. John Roberts8 of Grafton was also here, to ask my Advice concerning his applying to Books and Learning in order to his Education for the Ministry.

1744 January 17 (Tuesday). Thomas Winchester Came and Elijah Rice to dress Flax, but it was So very Cold that they could not Stand it, they broke off and got Wood for me a spurt and went off.

1744 January 18 (Wednesday). [No entry.]

1744 January 19 (Thursday). Mr. Cushing here. Troubles in Shrewsbury increase. Zebediah Johnson,9 Lieutenant Stone,10 etc. very uneasy as if they had not Spiritual Diet. Mr. Cushing and I din’d at Ensign Maynards11 with Colonel Nahum Ward, Colonel Williams and others at the giving out a Number more of Commissions—and particularly Ensign Maynard is now Constituted a Captain. N.B. Lieutenant Lee of Worcester his unguarded Talk, both at Captain Maynards and at my House.

1744 January 20 (Friday). Nine Men came and got Wood. Neighbour Hezekiah Pratt, James Bradish, Eleazer Williams, Noah How, Paul Newton,12 Elijah Rice, Thomas Winchester, Solomon Baker13 and James Maynard. 12 Large Load. N.B. Trouble in the Young Mens Society on account of Richard Roberts a young Man of Grafton who is hir’d to keep School on the South west Corner of the town, and who being a serious and Religious person many are desirous should meet with them but Nathan Maynard chiefly opposes it (he being a New Light) and they bring the Difficulty to me. I sent for Nathan and he Came and gave his Reasons. But I advis’d that Roberts defer his meeting till the society can be a little more Compos’d.

1744 January 21 (Saturday). Thomas and Elijah at the Flax—but I was not well myself one Day after another.

1744 January 22 (Sunday). Coloss. 1.21, a.m. 2 Pet. 3.9. Mr. Coollidge constantly dines with me on Lords Day, but it is grievous to me either to ask him to say Grace, or cast the Shame upon him at refusing him. My Heart akes exceedingly for him.

1744 January 23 (Monday). Reverend Mr. Smith of Marlborough made a Visit. We don’t meet without some Contests about the Times. He Thinks that there are as many and as deeply heart searching sermons among those term’d opposers as any others whosoever etc. He din’d with me but it was at a Time when a Number of my Neighbours were here getting Wood. Viz. Mr. Grout,14 Thomas Whitney, Harrington, Bowman,15 Daniel Forbush, Jonathan, Phinehas and Eli Forbush, Daniel Stone, Eliezer and Jeb Rice, Benjamin and Daniel Fay, each of which with a Team. Dan Warrin, James and Ebenezer Miller, Eleazer and Oliver Whitney, Samuel Baker. N.B. What wood was at the Door before and what there is now brought amounts to at least 50 Load now in the Piles, D. Gr.

1744 January 24 (Tuesday). At Dinner at Captain Maynards, both my wife and I with Captain Tyler who with a Considerable Number and Mr. Frost16 their minister is conducting his New spouse17 Home to Mendon.

1744 January 25 (Wednesday). I went out with Design to go to see Lieutenant Tainter who continues sick, but the Rain prevented my going any further than Captain Bakers. N.B. There was Mr. Marshal Baker and his wife.

1744 January 26 (Thursday). Went to Lieutenant Tainters who is weak and feeble yet. Was also at Stephen Fays. His Brother James there. He acquaints me with Mr. Halls going to Framingham shortly to preach there. Desir’d me to let him preach at his House. I chose he should at the Meeting House and wrote a Letter to Mr. Hall for that End, which he took the Care to Convey.

1744 January 27 (Friday). Letter from Brother Samuel Parkman. N.B. his wife destracted about the Comet. Moderate weather.

1744 January 28 (Saturday). Cold. Storm of Snow.

1744 January 29 (Sunday). On 2 Cor. 5.20. Mr. Coollidge, Mrs. Chamberlain. At Eve Deacon Miles18 of Concord and his wife at my House. Concord, by their Telling in much Disquietment Yet. At this Time I remembered the wormwood and the Gall.

1744 January 30 (Monday). Another Town Meeting upon my support etc. They voted but £200—Old Tenor. The North Side very Resolute. They urg’d that the Town gave me last year more than I needed or desir’d, that provisions were cheaper, etc., whereas I never gave so much as for both my Beef and my Rie—and also for Labour. The Moderator Mr. Livermore19 would not as much as Send me any Committee or Message of what they had done—said it was not in the Warrant. The Year has been of far greater Labours than Ever with me for them and of far greater charge on the Account of the Company etc., by means of the multiply’d Exercises, Lectures, etc. But God grant me an Even mind and resignation to His will! O that I may also have Grace to Examine my Ends, aims and Views. Mr. Whitneys Daughter Mary here—also Brother Hicks. At Evening Captain Warrin and Lieutenant Forbush20 here.

1744 January 31 (Tuesday). Not willing to perplex myself any longer about Mr. Rogers’s Small Debt, at his Request, made known to me by Mr. Chamberlain,21 I transferred the Business, to Mr. Chamberlain—not willing to use the Law if by any means, though to my Hurt, I could issue this troublesome Affair.

1744 February 1 (Wednesday). Mr. Hall came and preach’d my Lecture on Luke 21.36, which Lecture I was the more willing to appoint both because of our Standing so much in need of Quickening and Awakening—and because it happen’d to be the first Wednesday of the Month, according to the manner of our beginning the Lectures last Year. Reverend Mr. Cushing here. Mr. Coollidge also din’d with us. N.B. After Lecture Captain Hazeltine22 came with a message from Upton Church to Mr. Hall and me, acquainting us with their increasing Divisions and praying that Five Ministers would go over on the 14 Day of the Month and endeavour their Help. The other Ministers Mr. Peabody,23 Mr. Bliss, and Mr. Prentice of Grafton. But he brought no Letters for the Church did not go into the form of voting as a Church nor would Mr. Weld lead them into any, nor make any Records thereof—but they had mutually agreed to choose by Partys each side Two, and then to pitch upon one in which both could agree—and to these Things Mr. Weld24 Consented—and he the said Messenger was come in the Name of the Church accordingly. We Consented to go and I wrote to Mr. Peabody, committing it to Mr. Hall who was going to Framingham to forward it. N.B. Mr. Jonathan Burnap25 in the Evening here. Disturbances in Hopkinton are risen to great Heights and Richard and Nathaniel Smith26 are sent to Jayl for breaking up the Worship last Sabbath. Great Troubles also in Leicester. Reverend Mr. Goddard,27 in such Darkness about his own State that the last Sabbath, though Communion Day, he went not out to preach, but Captain Denny28 going to him he sent a Letter to the People.

1744 February 2 (Thursday). I gave Mr. Coollidge what Serious and affectionate Admonitions I could. The Lord add his Blessing! My wife and I rode over to Mrs. McAllisters to visit her in great Trouble and near her time. N.B. Mrs. Thankful Rice29 met me with a Confession written with her own Hand of her Drunkenness—but could not give her Encouragement that I would read it, except she would reform, at least give better Tokens of it than she had ever yet done. The Comet appears larger, the Stream from it much greater than a Month agoe.

1744 February 3 (Friday). David Crossby30 who lately made me a pair of Boots price 3.12.0 which I paid him for. N.B. I had some free Converse with him concerning the Excesses of some in these Times. He din’d with us. Sent by him to Reverend Mr. Townsend31 of Needham.

1744 February 4 (Saturday). Somewhat Rainy. Expected Mr. Brown,32 preacher, here that we might Change, but did not come from one Saturday to another.

1744 February 5 (Sunday). On Ps. 110.3 former part. Mr. Coollidge here. O might it please God to make it the Day of his power with our Souls! At Eve Mr. Pierce33 took a Letter from me for Mr. Burnap to carry to Mr. Hobby34 of Reading.

1744 February 6 (Monday). Mr. Cunnable of Boston, and his son, in their Return from Deerfield, here and din’d with me. Sent by him Monsieur Missons35 vol. 1 to my Kinsman Parkman.

1744 February 7 (Tuesday). At Mr. Rogers36 to see his wife who is sick. A Town Meeting respecting the Dividing the Town—but nothing Done.

1744 February 8 (Wednesday). Moderate Weather. The Comet large yet.

1744 February 9 (Thursday). Old Mrs. Wheeler, aged 95, dy’d.37 Snow. Engag’d to go to her Funeral if good Weather.

1744 February 10 (Friday). [No entry.]

1744 February 11 (Saturday). A Smart Snow Storm, but clear’d off p.m. The Time appointed for Mrs. Wheelers buryal is the forenoon, so that I could not attend it. But in the afternoon I borrow’d an Horse and went to meet them at the Grave; but meeting the young man (who return’d the buryal Cloth) a little beyond Captain Maynards, I return’d. Have the trouble of daily dressing my Mares Legg ever since my ride to Mr. McAllisters.38

1744 February 12 (Sunday). On Ps. 110.3, former part. Mr. Coollidge. Mrs. Grow.

1744 February 13 (Monday). The Comet almost disappears in the Evening but I expect it may be Visible in the Morning. Mr. Francis Whipple brought his Brother Lambson to see me at Evening—as was also Captain Warrin. Religious Affairs more steddily manag’d at Ipswich than in Time past.

1744 February 14 (Tuesday). In my riding to Upton I call’d at Mr. Thurstons39 who acquaints me that a Number of North Side people met those of the South, last night at Captain Fays40 to gather subscriptions to a petition to the General Court that the Town may be divided. At the Same Meeting Eliezer Rice broke his legg by wrestling with Silas Pratt. I proceeded to Upton and met Mr. Prentice of Grafton on the Road. We went to Mr. Sadlers41—waited for Mr. Hall, but in Vain. Heard that neither Mr. Peabody nor Mr. Bliss were like to come. But we at length proceeded to Lieutenant Tafts, where we were directed to Meet—and at 10 o’clock but I had no word of either Time or place whereas Mr. Prentice had a formal Letter from a Number of the Brethren Signifying both (I think) distinctly. At Lieutenant Tafts were the Brethren gather’d, and there we found not only Mr. Weld, but Mr. Peabody, who had been waiting an Hour or Two for our Coming. We din’d and then conferr’d together. Mr. Weld was with us when we pray’d by our Selves (which fell to me to perform), But he was absent for an hour or Two after it while we Settl’d ourselves. When the Church came in Mr. Peabody pray’d. After which we made some Overtures but Considering that Five of those which the major part of the Church (as that party was who were against Mr. Weld) had chose, had not come they were against Submitting their Cause to us. We saw it was in Vain to try to reconcile them. Neither could we do any thing that would be likely to End well, and therefor determin’d to advise them to Choose a Council. This we conducted to Effect and assisted them in forming all the votes, and watch’d over them through the whole Affair (Except in the Nominations, and upon their nominating Mr. Peabody and me we each of us as modestly as we could declin’d) but they finish’d the whole that night though it was late and almost worried me down. Mr. Prentice pray’d before we broke up. Mr. Peabody is requested by Mr. Weld to preach a sermon in the forenoon tomorrow before he leaves the place, and I am desir’d to preach p.m. Thus we disperse. Mr. Peabody and I lodged together.

1744 February 15 (Wednesday). By Day we wake with the Silent sight of a Young Fellow in the room getting up from his Girl in the t’other Bed in the Same Room with us. Astonishing Boldness and Impudence! nor could we let the Girl go off without a brief Lecture. But we kept the matter for the Parents for the Time. We all broke Fast at Mr. Nelsons. Mr. Peabody preach’d an Excellent sermon on Col. 1.27, latter part, and after sermon left us. I din’d in quiet at Deacon Nelsons with Mr. Weld, Mr. Dorr and his Daughter, for I had obtain’d leave to do as I would about the Afternoon Exercise, and I saw so much of the extra fervency of many of the people to have Mr. Prentice preach that I gave way. He din’d at Mr. Sadlers—and he preach’d p.m. on Exod. 5.10 latter part, and 11.12. At Eve I rode up to Captain Hazzletines and thence (accompany’d by Mr. Fisk42 of Upton to pilot me) got over safe to Westborough and found my Family well, after the troublesome Turn.

1744 February 16 (Thursday). Dr. Smith here with Mr. Bucknams sermons.43 Paul Fay here. Captain Fay44 at Evening who brought a Letter for [sic] our Young schoolmaster Richard Roberts, unbosoming his Troubles and griefs.

1744 February 17 (Friday). A Considerable Snow Storm.

1744 February 18 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1744 February 19 (Sunday). On Job 36.24.25. Jer. 8.5. I Stopp’d the Church to read Upton Church Letter. Voted to Comply with their Request But insisted for Two Delegates—and Two Brethren insisted for the Choices to be by written Votes. Deacon Forbush had the most votes the first Time, and Mr. Nathaniel Whitney the second but neither of them the majority of the whole. Some Debate arose and I was very uneasy to have this Interruption on the Lords Day; I therefore adjourn’d to next Tuesday one o’Clock. I inadvertently Said those persons were chose—designing no other than to let the Church know how the Votes stood—and that the Majority of the Church was not for them and I actually Said I know this is not the Mind of the Church, And it being the Sabbath I conceiv’d they would either confirm them that had the most Votes or take some other short Method. But Captain Baker in Heat Said it was Collusion etc. Upon which I meekly pray’d him to be satisfy’d and overlook it, for it was verily my own Inadvertence that I did not expect such a choice, was willing the Church Should have their own Choice. Mr. Coollidge here at noon.

1744 February 20 (Monday). I rode to Neighbour Thurstons and visited Neighbour Eliezer Rice under his Lameness. Was at James Fays and Winchesters. Richard Roberts gone to my House.

1744 February 21 (Tuesday). Jedidiah Rice45 went Early in the Morn with a Letter to Mr. Prentice of Grafton, and return’d me Mr. Prentices answer. Brother Hicks for Cambridge. Robert Evans Leather Dresser and seller, here and I bought Two of him. He din’d with us. Church Meeting by Adjournment. After Prayer we proceeded to Choose Delegates for the Council at Upton. Brother Francis Whipple and Deacon Newton were Chosen, and no Difficulty arose. All, or the Chief, Debate we had was from my recommending it to them previous to the Choice that no Brother ought to be Chose who had Interest in that Town. The Members of the Council Should be disinterested persons. It was upon this mov’d to me that no Inhabitant of Upton might vote; which was freely yielded to. After this Affair I pray’d the Church to take into (which took off Brother Zebulon Rice) consideration the Case of Neighbour Cornelius Cook;46 and the Church saw cause to send a Committee to him, viz. Deacon Forbush, Brother James Bradish and Brother James Bradish junior. With Prayer and Blessing the Meeting Concluded. Before Captain Baker went home I had a little Conference with him upon his unreasonable Warmth respecting my undesign’d and (as to me) innocent Oversight on the Lords Day, and I told him it may be he did not know the Meaning of the Word Collusion, which imply’d that there was intent to Deceive. He did not make any Reply to that, but said it look’d to him at the Juncture of my declaring those men Chosen that I design’d to let it go if they (He and Brother Whipple) had not Spoke—which verily I hope I should not. He spake about a fair and full meeting of the Church, and upon asking him what he intended by that? He answer’d he meant when the North side was duly Notify’d. I told him the Church was notify’d publickly in the Appointed place; and if any did absent themselves I could not either go after them or hire a man to goe round like a Constable to Warn them. As for their drawing off, it had never been in such good Order as they ought to have done it in. They had never acquaint’d the Church though under Covenant to hold Communion and though I had advis’d them to consider their Duty. I told him that Certainly as to Such peculiar pains and Trouble to notifie them they did not Deserve it. This expression he did not desire to hear. But for the foresaid Reasons and their late Conduct toward me in Cutting off my support, I thought to be just and fitt, upon which he declar’d himself Satisfy’d.

1744 February 22 (Wednesday). Mrs. Bacon of Needham and her Daughter Rice of Worcester here, brought me a Letter from Reverend Mr. Townsend47 concerning Some Books he had of Mine (Lord Kings Biography) and some I had of his (Echards Eccl. Hist.).48

1744 February 23 (Thursday). [No entry.]

1744 February 24 (Friday). [No entry.]

1744 February 25 (Saturday). Snow Storm.

1744 February 26 (Sunday). On Job 36.24.25 on occasion of the Comet. Mr. Coollidge and Mr. Thurston din’d with me. Letter from Mr. Hobby of Reading, that he Cannot come up into our parts of the Country though he has desir’d it.

1744 February 27 (Monday). Mrs. Hannah Forbush (the Deacon’s wife) and Mrs. Mary Steward make us a Visit.

1744 February 28 (Tuesday). Fine Weather.

1744 February 29 (Wednesday). Heard that Roxbury new, handsome Meeting House was burnt down last sabbath by means of a stove in Judge Dudleys Pew.49

1744 March 1 (Thursday). Preach’d my Lecture my Self. Repeated on Jude 10.21. Stop’d the Church to See what their minds were respecting Grafton Members communicating with us—having been ask’d Several Times by John Bradish to grant this Privilege, and they (Several of them, viz. Mr. Miller,50 Mr. Whipple, Deacon Newton,51 as I remember all that Spake) manifested that they could not consent to have any Members of that Church come to Communion here whilst they were in Such Divisions, and were (as at that very Time) agitating and ripening their affairs on for a Council. After meeting Lieutenant Forbush and I admonish’d Brother Jonathan Bellows for his late Conduct and call’d him to Repentence. Continuance in the Evening with Brother Seth Rice about his Sister Thankful who had Some Time agoe deliver’d me a Confession which I esteem’d Lame and unsound. He took a Note from me to her.

1744 March 2 (Friday). I understand the Comet has not been Seen for Some Dayes.

1744 March 3 (Saturday). There arose a great Storm of Snow.

1744 March 4 (Sunday). The Storm so great that but few came to Meeting. Deacon Forbush52 came not with the Elements. Yet I went on with my Sermon on 1 Cor. 11.26, though the Sacrament was not Celebrated. P.M. on Job 36.24.25. Deacon Fay, and Mr. Joseph Crosby of Worcester din’d with me.

1744 March 5 (Monday). Town Meeting. I pray’d with them. Sent in a Letter to the Town concerning their making so Slender a provision for my Support this Year, and sent a writing to the Moderator praying him in my name to notifie the people of the Communion next Lords Day, and a Sermon to be tomorrow to young people on the north side of the Town. N.B. I Sent another Letter (which I prepar’d last week) to Reverend Mr. Prentice of Grafton per Mr. Benjamin Winchester. Mr. Jonathan Burnap here and din’d with us. N.B. Reckon’d with Captain Maynard—fell in his Debt £9 old Tenor. N.B. The Middle of the Town so much the Lead at this Meeting as that the Select Men were Captain Warrin,53 Captain Baker,54 Deacon Newton, Captain Maynard,55 Lieutenant Forbush.56 N.B. Thomas Winchester here at Evening but no agreement yet.

1744 March 6 (Tuesday). My Wife rode with Me to Mr. Nathaniel Oakes where I preach’d to Young people from Rom. 8.7. After Meeting at Captain Eagers. May God grant Success.

1744 March 7 (Wednesday). Surpriz’d with an unaccountable Letter from Mr. Prentice of Grafton, who tells me that he read my Letter complaining that they did not call Wheeler to account in presence of People of their Church and that they were all of the Mind to prosecute the Affair and he was so desir’d to write to me to Come up to their Church meeting tomorrow and produce my Witnesses, etc. To which I return’d an Answer manifesting my Astonishment that he had Expos’d my Private Letter and friendly Communication with him as my Brother and that I Should not attend Said meeting. The Bearer of Each Letter was Thomas Winchester. P.M. Deacon Newton here, reckon’d with him and paid all except for his line. Mr. Richard Salter57 from Mansfield here and lodg’d with us.

1744 March 8 (Thursday). Mr. Matthew Rice here acquainting me with the Good Effect of the Sermon at Nathaniel Oakes the Day before Yesterday; and that they earnestly desire the Copy of it for the press, and will Satisfie me for my pains in preparing it for them. P.M. I rode over to Neighbour Seth Rice’s to discourse with him about his sister Thankfulls Confession and what success he had had in his Endeavours with her. Thence I rode up to Colonel Nahum Wards58 and conferr’d with him upon what the Law had provided in the Case of Secret Letters disclos’d, and whether the Author or the receiver is Chargeable with the Mischief arising from such Divulging? Return’d again the Same Evening. Mr. Salter left us, for Boston uncertain yet whether he shall settle at Mansfield.

1744 March 9 (Friday). A.M. Aaron Hardy and Simon Tainter of Grafton both here, concerned lest I had brought myself into a snare by sending such a Letter to Mr. Prentice for that it was much fear’d that the witnesses which I depended upon to Support my Charge, would fail me. They Staid and din’d with me. P.M. Mrs. Thankfull Rice here—and had no Difficulty with her about Altering her Confession. I was exceeding uneasy at Evening what might be the Event of my Letter to Mr. Prentice—because if I should escape Trouble in the Law, yet Should fall under much Blame and reproach for my Credulousness and Abounding charity towards the New Lights, who in many Instances have (Its said commonly) been found too forgetfull where they ought to remember both words and Facts. N.B. The proposals of a Council at Grafton thrown up for the present and a Fast is now appointed instead thereof but the aggriev’d resolve to have a Council.

1744 March 10 (Saturday). I rose very Early and Committing my Case to God I went (as I was able) in his Fear and trusting in his goodness to Phinehas Hardys of Grafton and thence to Deacon Miriams,59 He being one of the witnesses etc. as above. He and his wife treated me with great Civility and Courteousness and generousness, of their own accord providing an Handsome Breakfast of Chocolat etc. etc. for me—and Deacon freely Said that what he remember’d of the Conversation we had with Wheeler he would faithfully relate and would Stand by Steadfastly. He affirm’d that though he could not remember the particular words yet he did that the Drift and Substance of it imply’d his acknowledging that he was Guilty of Fornication with Lydia Pratt etc. He said moreover that he had not refus’d to testify—but had refus’d to Complain of Wheeler, because he had privately forgiven him—But when lawfully call’d was able and was willing to say much more. I ask’d him whether I could take minutes of what he said and he freely consented and Signed it. He having repeatedly assur’d me that he would not fail me, I took leave, and return’d by Simon Tainters and Phinehas Hardy. At Mr. Hardys I din’d. He told me that His wife and He had heard Deacon Miriam say that Wheeler had heretofore deny’d, and then had confess’d his Guiltiness etc.—and they had both of them heard Mr. Harwood affirm the Same Concerning Himself, that Wheeler had deny’d it and then confess’d it to Him. But James Harrington (they Said) was but just gone from their House who was positive that Wheeler had first ly’d and then owned etc. Mr. Harrington was right in my road, so I took therefor a pen and Ink and Hardy and I went to him, who freely related the whole, was willing I should take minutes of it, and freely sign’d it before us who sign’d it as witnesses. Hardy was so kind as to ride with me to Winchesters who took of me my letter of the 7th to Mr. Prentice, in order to Convey it—and he affirm’d before Mr. Hardy that the Letter he took of me was well seal’d; and that he deliver’d it So to John Cooper of Grafton to Convey as directed. Having thus clear’d my way, I return’d Home about 3 p.m. to finish what preparations I could for the Sabbath, having look’d upon Myself as call’d and bound in Duty to look after this affair with what thoroughness I could, even though I Should be oblig’d to omitt making a fresh sermon for the afternoon tomorrow. But having had such success in my Endeavours to secure my Innocence I was both thankful to God and Calm in my own Breast. I would have visited Mr. Prentice if it had been another season—but as to his Injury done me in disclosing my Letter I look’d upon it as rather owing to his Inadvertence than wickedness and was ready to forgive it.

1744 March 11 (Sunday). Lieutenant Tainter came to me in the Morning before Exercises and Spake to me of Mr. Coollidges60 Communicating, but I immediately put an Effectual stop to it and told him I would not hear one word about it. Mr. Coollidge himself came to me but I would in no wise give way, but utterly refus’d. I preach’d on 1 Cor. 11.26 and Celebrated the Communion. O might it prove for the Divine Glory and our highest Comfort! Mr. Coollidge din’d with me, as did Deacon Fay, Deacon Newton and wife and Jonathan Tainter. P.M. preach’d on John 15.9 latter part repeating Sermon 2 on Jude 4.21. Propounded Paul Fay61 in order to his being Baptiz’d and took the Churches Consent to my Baptizing on the North side of the Town, and particularly Mr. McAllisters62 Child.

1744 March 12 (Monday). I rode down to Colonel Wards63 at Southborough that I might Consult Dalton64 and other Lawyers, upon Letters Sent for one friend to another in a private and Secret Manner upon Witnesses etc. Return’d without much Success, the Colonel being from home. I call’d at his son Elisha’s, Dalton being there.

1744 March 13 (Tuesday). Deacon Newton, Brother Whipple and I rode to Upton. Arriv’d at Mr. Welds65 House but a little after 10. Found Mr. Bucknam66 and Peabody there, but understood to our grief that the Council were to be entertain’d at Separate Houses each Party their own churchs; nor was it possible to alter it. We waited till 3 p.m. before the rest came that we might form into a Council. Mr. Peabody having been more peculiarly chose by both sides than either of us, who were the Senior Ministers, he was thought the fittest for Moderator from that Circumstance as well as his Superior Powers and Abilitys. It was So late that we could do little more than receive their Papers and number them and hear a few Debates. I think we made some Overtures to the Contending Partys touching mutual Condescentions and Compromising matters—but they were in Vain. Rachel Wheeler of Grafton, heretofore Woods of Upton, had reveal’d some of the Conduct of Reverend Mr. Weld who heretofore Courted her to her Husband—and her Evidence was given in by the Adverse party to Support one of their Charges—but it was given in such strong Terms that Mr. Weld had obtain’d a Warrant for her, and Mr. Bruce67 the Sheriff was dedie in Diem at Mr. Welds all the Time of the Council. By means of this Affair all accommodations of Differences were clogg’d. Adjourn’d to the Meeting House Tomorrow.

1744 March 14 (Wednesday). See the Minutes of the Council. N.B. Justice Taft68 Swore Rachel Wheeler at her Fathers House—which was a great obstruction to all Hopes of accommodation. N.B. The Councils affairs greatly delay’d by the other part of the Councils not attending in season. But we could not obtain to dine or Supp together—not alternately nor any Way what ever. At the Meeting House a.m. At Mr. Welds p.m. and Evening.

1744 March 15 (Thursday). Often weary and despairing to bring any Thing to issue—but We attended publickly both a. and p.m., to hear etc. See the minutes. Three Things dampt the opposing Brethren. One, the confusion they were thrown into in trying to pick up their Reasons for Separating from 3 different papers—and the Immethodicalness of their paper of Complaints. 2. They were disappointed much in what they expected from Mrs. Matchetts Testimony—as they were in some others. 3. The great Acceptance that Mr. Welds Sermons met with in the Council and assembly instead of being condemn’d and despis’d, as they who had separated from him pretended they had reason to. In the Evening offers again made respecting accommodations but to little purpose—though the adverse Brethren were much more dispos’d to it than heretofore. They were now heartily sorrowful for the Wheeler witness. The Council were to draw up something against the Morning for the Brethren them [sic] to Consider on.

1744 March 16 (Friday). Mr. Peabody, Bucknam and I had partly drawn up Something which when Mr. Hall69 came to us conceiv’d to Contain More than the Separating Brethren would conform to so that he sat down to draw anew But when the Council met, neither would his Draught be accepted. Mr. Weld declar’d his utter and positive determination to have Nothing done respecting Rachel Wheeler till he had taken Advice; notwithstanding that Ensign Woods and his Wife, Daughter, Friends etc. were all of them very Desirous to throw all that Matter up and acknowledge both their folly and their sin. P.M. at Eve, though we adjourn’d yet since it rain’d and storm’d we tarried and rested ourselves as well as we Could.

1744 March 17 (Saturday). Clear and Comfortable. We return’d home but on our way visited Deacon Newtons Daughter Warrin70 and their Brother Jonas’s Family, and din’d at Neighbour Thurstons. Found my Family Well, through the Goodness of God. At Eve came Mr. Josiah Brown to Change with me tomorrow. N.B. a most sorrowful piece of News at my Return. One Daniel Campbell who in Years past used to keep Maylems Stables at Boston, was lately murther’d at Rutland by (as tis Suspected) Edward Fitzpatrick who is apprehended accordingly and Imprison’d at Worcester.71

1744 March 18 (Sunday). I preach’d on the North Side, at the House of Mr. Nathaniel Oake, on Col. 1.21. Din’d at Captain Eagers. Baptiz’d Mr. McAllisters Child; and Mr. John Caruths, which was born today. Return’d home at Evening. Mr. Brown preach’d on Ps. 32.11 and on Prov. 8.36.

1744 March 19 (Monday). Mr. Brown left us. But Mr. Stone72 of Southborough came—din’d and Spent the p.m. with us. Which was singularly acceptable to me, as I was very dull and had got over my last Weeks Worry.

1744 March 20 (Tuesday). My Wife and I rode to Grafton Fast. Mr. Prentice pray’d and Mr. Haven73 preach’d on Hosea 11.4. I drew therewith the Bands of Love. We went and refresh’d at Mr. Prentice’s—and there were also Mr. Halls and Mr. Havens wives. N.B. Mr. Goddard74 a.m. but went to Leicester p.m. At Eve Mr. Prentice sollicited me to Stay and assist them in their Church Meeting which was to be upon their sad Differences and Divisions among them—but I utterly declin’d—however the Church sent a Committee to me, Deacon Whipple,75 Deacon Miriam and Lieutenant Drury76 to desire me, with the other ministers to go into Meeting. I comply’d for a few minutes—but could not tarry, my wife being in the cold, and a Young Child at home, the ways dirty and like to be Dark. I took leave and we rode to Winchesters and thence home.

1744 March 21 (Wednesday). Sent my Horse by Captain Maynard to Boston for Thomme. Sent by him also to Mrs. Catherine Foster, Clothier. Captain Forbush here, and told me that Considering the Town had not granted sufficiency for my Support he would send me a Bushel of English Grain, Wheat and Rye.

1744 March 22 (Thursday). Snow Storm. We were anxious about Thomme on his Journey.

1744 March 23 (Friday). Thomme under the kind Care of Captain Maynard by the Favour of God came home Safe, they having lodg’d last night at Baldwins at Sudbury.

1744 March 24 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1744 March 25 (Sunday). On Mat. 12.17 to 21. Mr. Coollidge, Mrs. Grow, and Thomas Winchester din’d.

1744 March 26 (Monday). Capt. Fay here. Mr. Mede. P.M. Jonas Child.

1744 March 27 (Tuesday). The Catechetical Exercises to young Women. I made use of my sermon on Exod. 33.18. It being rainy I had but about 16 Hearers. At Evening Came James Bradish and with him Paul Newton, Elijah Warrin, and Jonas Brigham.

1744 March 28 (Wednesday). My Wife and I rode to Marlborough. P.M. visited old Mrs. Beeman under her Cancer. Visited Colonel Williams77 but the Colonel not a[t] home. We were also at Mr. Smiths78 but were obliged to lodge at Dr. Gotts.

1744 March 29 (Thursday). A.M. at Mr. Tainters to hasten his making up the Cloths he had in Hand for Me and for Ebenezer, viz. Leather Breeches for Each of us and a Coat of light grey Broad Cloth for him. We din’d at Mr. Smiths and p.m. rode to Southborough and made a visit to Mr. Stones. At night return’d through God’s Mercy in safety.

1744 March 30 (Friday). A great Storm of Rain in the Morning. Mr. John Mathis of Southborough dropt down dead in the highway. An Awful Warning.

1744 March 31 (Saturday). Mr. Ebenzer Wheeler of Grafton here. Treated him with kindness. Discover’d to him what Testimony I was able to give Concerning him and how it was Strengthen’d by Three others—but I did not perceive that he was inclin’d to make acknowledgement to the Church except he was forc’d to it, yet left me in a friendly manner.

1744 April 1 (Sunday). On Mat. 12.22, a.m. On Matt. 3.10. Repeated with some Additions on occasion of the Death of Mr. John Mathis of Southorough in so sudden and awful a Manner.

1744 April 2 (Monday). Rode through Southborough to Cambridge. Call’d at the house of the late Mr. Mathis to Sympathize with the Widow and Children, and to obtain a particular and distinct account of the Deceas’d and the manner of his leaving the World. Was also at Mr. Stones and din’d there, where was also the Coroner, viz. Lieutenant Hezekiah Ward. From Horns had Colonel Nathum Wards Company down. We call’d to pay our Regards to the good and aged Mr. Swift. Rainy before I got to Father Champneys, where I lodg’d.

1744 April 3 (Tuesday). To Boston. My Kinsman confin’d for Months past. I think ever since the 22d of last October and not able to go out of his Chamber yet. My aged Mother there with him to be Company for him. Pito carry’d back my Horse to Cambridge. N.B. Cousen Proctor79 and Bradshaw80 from Stoughton happen’d to be now at Boston. At Lecture this Evening at the New North. Mr. Prince preach’d on Cant. 5.16. A very excellent usefull moving sermon. I beg of God I may not loose the Savour of it. After Sermon I was at Mr. Eliots,81 where was my Brother Peabody82 of Natick. Lodg’d as usual at my Kinsmans.

1744 April 4 (Wednesday). Rain. Din’d at Brother Samuels—sister not in Health. P.M. at Mr. John Brecks. In the Evening at Mr. Simeon Skilling’s Carver. Endeavouring to obtain a good place to bind my son Thomme out a’Prentice.

1744 April 5 (Thursday). Mr. Checkly83 preach’d the Publick Lecture (instead of Dr. Chauncy) on Tit. 3.8. Din’d at Brother Samuels again with Mr. Eliot. P.M. a Young Man84 Sat on the Gallows for attempting to Murther his Master. The world has also rung with Tom Bell’s85 conduct in Charlestown Jayl. N.B. p.m. Discours’d with Mr. Joshua Emms about his taking my son Thomme. John White from Brother Parkmans went for my Horse to Cambridge. At Eve I return’d there. N.B. Brother and sister Hicks there.

1744 April 6 (Friday). Had Some serious Discourse with Brother Champney concerning their Domestic Contests. Return’d to Westborough. D.G. No Thomas Winchester yet. Little Sarah from Lameness in her left Arm, which we can’t well account for.

1744 April 7 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1744 April 8 (Sunday). On Matt. 12.27. P.M. on Ps. 65.2 preparatory to the Fast in the Ensuing Weeks.

1744 April 9 (Monday). Mr. Dunlop was So kind as to come and give me a Days Work. Thomas Winchester came again for another six Months (by Gods Leave) but insist’d for £40 old Tenor for it. P.M. my wife and I rode to the Burial of Silas Fays dead born Infant. N.B. at the Grave some Such Questions were ask’d me by Mr. Fay by which I came to understand that his Brother Timothy held the odd opinion that an unborn Child had not a rational immortal soul and that he had been thus minded several Year. At Eve Brother Hicks and his wife here from Cambridge.

1744 April 10 (Tuesday). Thomas (who mended Fence Stone wall etc. yesterday) ploughing Hills.

1744 April 11 (Wednesday). Thomas Sowing Rie in the lower Field.

1744 April 12 (Thursday). Publick Fast. On Isa. 66.2. P.M. much Spent by that Time I began my afternoon sermon which was a carrying on the Same subject, but I improv’d part of my sermon on Zech. 12.10, viz. from page 43 and on. After Exercises Thankful Rice’s86 Confession read and she was restor’d. Committee from the Young Mens society acquainted me that they had receiv’d satisfaction and made up their Difference concerning which they were with me some Evenings since. The Committee also touching Mr. Cornelius Cooks87 affair were with me at my Desire, because Mr. Cook Seem’d not to conform (a[s] I judg’d) to what the Committee had brought me from him, as his Confession. Alas! how dull and dry, how weak and worthless in the service of God and how unable to lead the people of God or profit them on such Days as this!

1744 April 13 (Friday). A.M. Thomas broke up the Grass Ground in the lower Orchard South side. I was at Deacon Newtons and Captain Bakers. P.M. Rain—ploughing and all work abroad thrown up. At Eve Captain Maynard. Also Cornelius Cook and James Bradish were here upon Mr. Cooks Confession.

1744 April 14 (Saturday). Fine pleasant Day. Thomas ploughing up Stubble of the South side. Mr. Hezekiah Hows Oxen yesterday and to Day. Ebenezer to Marlborough. P.M. I rode over to Upton and Mr. Weld came here. I lodg’d at Captain Hazzletines.88

1744 April 15 (Sunday). Captain Hazzeltine was in doubt what would become of me at Noon, but Mr. Fisk who liv’d nigher the Meeting House was so good as to ask me to Dinner as did also Captain Sadler89 who was Still more conveniently Situated. Preach’d on Luke 19.10. Din’d at Captain Sadlers. Captain Tyler90 and his Wife of Still River there also. Some Number Seem’d to be greatly affected, especially one Mr. Peas91 could not wholly contain himself. After Meeting I refresh’d at Captain Sadlers. Ensign Woods92 greatly insisted upon my going to his House to See his Lad who had fallen from a Damm and grievously hurt his Jaw Bone. I went. Captain Hazzelton, Captain Sadler, Lieutenant Taft there also. Then return’d Evening. I came Home though it was very Late.

1744 April 16 (Monday). A.M. Mr. Weld preach’d to great good Acceptance of those of our people who went to hear him, and especially commended each his last Prayers, but Mr. James Fay and his Brother Stephen hearing he was to preach went to Grafton. I ask’d Mr. Weld whether he would drop his Action against Mr. Ebenezer Wheeler and his Wife if they made an humble Submission? Or, why he would go on to prosecute them if they would? He reply’d he did not know what he might do in that matter if they Should, but no one person had been to him in such a way as yet. Neither had he any Reason to expect they would, for they had rather done all within their power to Stand by what had been done. Ex. gr. her taking her oath before Justice Taft, etc. He set out for Worcester. P.M. at Mr. E. Nurse’s. At Eve Captain Mainard and Mr. Abner Newton here. Rainy Evening.

1744 April 17 (Tuesday). Thomme who had left me last night to go down to Boston in Company with Jonathan Rogers, went not away till the morning. I wrote by him to Mr. Joshua Emms of Boston, Goldsmith, with whom he was going to live. I had Mr. Williams’s Mare to ride over to the Association at Lancaster. Mr. Loring absent by reason of the late Death of his oldest son, Dr. John Loring93 Physician at Boston. Mr. Gardner94 read his Concio on Matt. 13.27 and part of 28. Heard to Day the sorrowful News of the Burning of Mr. Emmersons95 House at Nessitissett96 lately.

1744 April 18 (Wednesday). Mr. Barrett97 not being present I preach’d the public Lecture. Text Luke 16.23. N.B. The first Time I preach’d in the New Meeting House. P.M. I got an Horse of Mr. Prentice,98 and (Mr. Bowers99 of Middletown in Connecticut and Mr. Whitcomb100 of Lancaster part of the way in Company) I rode to Luningburgh and to Townshend, lodg’d at Lieutenant Taylors,101 but alas! the house in Tears for my kind Landlady, Mrs. Taylor, who lately deceas’d. N.B. Several Houses in Townsend fortify’d against the Indians.

1744 April 20 (Friday). I return’d to Westborough as early as I could. Call’d to See the North Inhabitants on the Hill, but made what haste I could because of the Lecture I was to preach to Day. Preach’d from Ps. 24.3. N.B. After Lecture Brother James and Stephen Fay, being dissatisfy’d with my changing with Mr. Weld, were here to discourse with me about it. To whom I have the Reasons of my Conduct in that Matter.

1744 April 21 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1744 April 22 (Sunday). I administered the Sacrament of the Lords Supper. The Fays were present. Preach’d on 1 Cor. 11.26, and Ps. 24.4.

1744 April 23 (Monday). I receiv’d a note from Mr. Prentice of Grafton acquainting me that they had appoint’d a Church meeting to be on next Friday, praying that if I knew of any Evidences in the Affair of Mr. Wheeler I would help them to them.

1744 April 24 (Tuesday). Held a Catechetical Exercise at the Meeting House, but it was somewhat Thin. Deliver’d my Ninth Exercise on the Catechism, viz. on God is a Spirit.

1744 April 25 (Wednesday). Catechiz’d at the Meeting House a. and p.m.

1744 April 26 (Thursday). My wife and I rode over with Captain Fay to Lieutenant Holloways where the Captain was marry’d to the widow Mary Rice, and we had an handsome Entertainment. N.B. the Bride’s Grandson Jonathan Oake, who was before Lame and one-eyed has lately met with another Maim, his Uncle George having accidentally Splitt his Hand from the Finger to the wrist. I carry’d my wife to Bezaleel Eagers and left her there, that I might go up into Shrewsbury and Discourse with Colonel Nahum Ward upon the Wheeler Affair. I went as far as Mr. Cushings (though it was when their Lecture was done) but made no Stay. Was very friendly receiv’d by the Colonel, who as he advis’d me to go to Grafton tomorrow So at my request was willing to go over also. N.B. Several Northampton men at Eagers in the Eve. When we return’d home we found Lieutenant Holloway and Mr. Wheeler with their wives, who had been waiting upon the Bridegroom and Bride to the Lodgings at Young Mr. David Maynards.

1744 April 27 (Friday). I rode to Grafton—Call’d at Mr. James Harringtons and at Ensign Jonathan Halls, but went up to Mr. Wheelers to See whether upon his Seeing what Testimonys I had to prove that he had acknowledg’d his Fornication with Lydia Pratt he would not humble himself, but he was for having me go on and prove what I could. I was mov’d with Pity towards him especially Considering he was under great Trouble already by Means of Mr. Weld of Uptons prosecuting him in the Law in an action of £1000 for his wife’s Defamation, but my Discourse avail’d Nothing, though I stay’d with him and din’d also and strove every Way to gain him. I rode to Mr. Prentice’s and after some Time came Colonel Nahum Ward as I had requested. I told Mr. Prentice how much rather I chose to have Wheeler labour’d with in private and that he would prevent public Ecclesiastical process. The Pastor and Brethren repair’d to the Meeting House, open’d their meeting and then adjourn’d for 1/4 hour that such Brethren as were so inclin’d might come with Wheeler to me. Several came. Essays were made to bring him to acknowledgement but in Vain. They return’d to Meeting and being requested by the Church to go to them I accordingly went, read and gave in a Written Testimony of what I heard Mr. Wheeler Say. Then gave them what I had receiv’d from Deacon Miriam. After those Two Evidences Jason Whitney and James Harrington being sworn before Colonel Ward, gave in theirs. After various Questions put as the Brethren Saw Cause, and Conference with Wheeler and us who were Witnesses the meeting was adjourh’d to Thursday next 4 p.m. At Mr. Prentice’s request I pray’d at breaking up. Colonel Ward went home but it having been rainy, and now very damp, cold and Late I ventur’d not but lodg’d at Mr. Prentice’s. Thomas Winchester broke yesterday and this morning by going to look of Land nigh his Fathers.

1744 April 28 (Saturday). Return’d as Early as I could, having much yet to do in my preparations for the Lords Day.

1744 April 29 (Sunday). On John 4.24 and p.m. repeated on 1 Pet. 3.7. Mr. Coollidge in Town again (keeping School at the South East part of the Town) and din’d here.

1744 April 30 (Monday). Brother Breck went to Marlborough. Brother Hicks here. Captain Maynard rais’d another Large Barn. My Wife and I were there. N.B. One Goodhew, a Young Man from Boston residing among us, had a fall from the Frame and was led into the House much hurt, but afterwards recover’d. At Supper there were So many to be entertain’d that we were kept till 10 o’Clock. I manifested so much uneasiness that we were so detain’d that I concluded everybody would retire home as Soon as they might, but it prov’d otherwise. Many tarried long after I was got home and the Time run off; among the rest 3 of my own Family. After 12 I walk’d away towards the House again. Ebenezer and Thomas Needham were returning home—upon which I went to my Bed—but understanding that there were many yet behind and among them Some Heads of Family, I rose very uneasy and went down to the House, and having acquainted Captain Maynard with what Time of Night it was, I ask’d him whether he did not Consent to my going in among the Company that were Still diverting themselves at this unseasonable Time. I went in and admonish’d them, and sent them home. N.B. George Smith (the Taylor) and Robert Bradish made the Chief Stand—but Smith I Sent off and Bradish took up his Lodging there. This Exerting my Authority gave me great uneasiness, but I was resolute to Shew Impartiality and not be partaker of other Mens Sins, as likewise to discharge my own Duty as Watchman in this Place and as having the Care of their Souls. N.B. Thomas Winchester last 1/2 Day.

1744 May 1 (Tuesday). Robert Bradish and George Smith here in the Morning. I renewed my admonition. Bradish Submitted—but Smith was refractory and went off so. Thomas Winchester planting Corn south side. Dr. Gott and Brother Samuel Breck came up from Marlborough and din’d with Me. My Wife walk’d with her Brethren to visit Captain Maynard.102 Rainy p.m. Thomas is broke off. Brother Samuel tarried over Night and Hay being Short Sent his Horse to old Mr. Maynards. Brother Breck upon his Journey to Springfield purposing to buy and settle in Worcester, there being now no Settled Physician there. Very pleasant—Thomas Planting.

1744 May 2 (Wednesday). [No entry.]

1744 May 3 (Thursday). Preach’d at the Private Meeting at Mr. Grouts,103 on 1 Cor. 3.7. But few men, the Same Number of women. N.B. Bekky Hicks104 rode with me. We call’d at Captain Fays105 when we return’d. Mr. Stephen Fays [crossed out] Wife was there. She desir’d to Speak alone with me, the Conversation the most unaccountable and intolerable that ever I met with Making Exceptions against the most inexceptionable parts of my Sermon today; and declaring her great Dissatisfaction to my preaching in general, and to my Ministration, and yet in plain Terms said she could not given [sic] any Reason why. Upon my reproving her for her unreasonableness, She freely Submitted to it, and when I ask’d her whether She thought these Things proceeded from the Spirit of God, She freely acknowledg’d that She did think they did not, but from the Contrary. But She desir’d I would not be angry, for She knew it was the Effect of prejudice reigning and prevailing in her against me, and She pray’d me to tell her what She Should do to get rid of it, or what I could do to help her? I ask’d here whether She did not think She was under the influence of a Party Spirit. She Said it was most likely. I told her the Apostle directed me to rebuke her Sharply that she might be Sound in the Faith and this therefore (I told her) I now did, for it was great Sin and wickedness which She was guilty of herein, and I pray’d her to consider how horrible and how dangerous it was to be So much under the Influence of Adversary and bid her beware—with divers other Such Expressions—which She thank’d me for and we concluded. When I came home Captain Timothy Brigham of Southborough was here on a Message from Madam Stone to request me to go to Mr. Stone’s tomorrow, their Infant Child being deceas’d and Mr. Stone being gone to Norwich.

1744 May 4 (Friday). I was at the Funeral of Mr. Stone (of Southborough) his youngest Child.

1744 May 5 (Saturday). Great Storm of Rain.

1744 May 6 (Sunday). Rainy. On John 4.24, a. and p.m. The widow of Thomas Bruce heretofore of this Town and Mrs. Ruth Fay (wife of Mr. Stephen) din’d here.

1744 May 7 (Monday). Visited Several Sick, viz. Amos Whitney,106 who was ill of a Rheumatism, Eli Forbush,107 Sick of a pleurisy, Jonathan Tainter in the Wastes of a Consumption, and daily (as tis thought) growing Worse. He has been propounded in order to admission into full Communion but has been a Journey since for his Health and it has prov’d too Much for him. Thomas picking up and burning Bushes.

1744 May 8 (Tuesday). Pleasant Weather. Read the Conversion of Mr. Benjamin Dutton, a dissenting Minister in England. At Evening old Mr. Maynard and Mr. Francis Whipple here. Thomas picking up etc.

1744 May 9 (Wednesday). Heard that Ezekiel Cole’s Case was try’d yesterday at our County Court at Worcester, and that he was fin’d etc. And inform’d likewise that to Day Reverend Mr. Welds against Rachel Wheeler of Grafton, comes on. Mr. Weld recover’d of Wheeler £400 old Tenor for Defamation—but both he and Wheeler appeal’d from the Judgement.

1744 May 10 (Thursday). At Deacon Tomlins and visited Jonathan Tainter.

1744 May 11 (Friday). Brother Samuel Parkman came at Evening from Dunstable.

1744 May 12 (Saturday). Brother visited Captain Maynard and Captain return’d with him here, which I was glad of. See April 30 at night.

1744 May 13 (Sunday). On Mat. 12.28 and Ps. 47.7. Mr. Coollidge din’d.

1744 May 14 (Monday). I accompany’d my Brother to the Borders of Hopkinton, and in returning I visited old Mr. Rice who lyes very weak and low. Town Meeting to see whether the Town will choose a Committee to make Reply to the Petition lately put in to the General Court to divide the Town. The Town voted to do so and chose Captain Warrin, Captain Maynard and Mr. Francis Whipple their Committee for that purpose. Reverend Mr. Warham Williams of Waltham here, with Delegates going up to a Council at Grafton chose by agriev’d Brethren there—viz. Aaron Hardy, Simon Tainter, etc. At Eve Simon Tainter here to desire me to go up tomorrow, or draw up what I had to say about Wheeler, and about Mr. Prentice’s being dismiss’d from the Association. But I could not gratify them with either, for 1.) my wife designs to go to Boston tomorrow. 2.) There is no Time to apprize Mr. Prentice of it. 3.) I have not time to look up my papers and prepare.

1744 May 15 (Tuesday). My Wife undertook her Journey to Boston.

1744 May 16 (Wednesday). [No entry.]

1744 May 17 (Thursday). Mr. Barrett came from Grafton and acquainted me with what the Council had done there. N.B. but 3 Churches met—and they adjourn’d to August next, advising the aggrieved Brethren there to make fresh application to the Church to join with them in calling a Council mutually, which if they would not do, to add six churchs more to themselves to form another Council. Mr. Barrett din’d with me and Spent several Hours afternoon—walk’d to the great Pond etc. He tells me the separations in Hopkinton increase, and now both the Ruling Elders there are in Separation.

1744 May 18 (Friday). Mr. Buckminster of Rutland108 here in his Return home.

1744 May 19 (Saturday). My Wife return’d from Boston, informs me that my Honored Mother is not so well as heretofore. Mother Champney also very weak and languishing. My son Thomme much out of Health and Mr. Emms discourag’d about him and would have me send for him home.

1744 May 20 (Sunday). On Mat. 12.29, and p.m. repeat’d Sermon on 1 Cor. 14.15, from Ps. 47.7. Mr. Coollidge here at Dinner.

1744 May 21 (Monday). N.B. A Meeting of those Inhabitants who were against the Northside’s petition; and they met at Captain Forbush’s. Captain Maynard here. N.B. a Visit from Captain Eager and Mr. Livermore.

1744 May 22 (Tuesday). I rode to Marlborough to Mr. Tainters109 and Madam Woods,110 and proceeded to Mr. Stones at Southborough where I din’d, and thence to Hopkinton. On the Road to Major Jones’s met Mr. Barrett and the Committee from the General Court to look into the affair of Malden Farm lying in Shrewsbury and Worcester. Had some opportunity to Confer with them upon the affair of the Petition of our Northside, particularly with Mr. Foxcroft,111 Captain Watts, Dr. Hale,112 etc. When I came home Mr. Ebenezer Chamberlain was here with Mrs. Rebecca Cotton of Newton. N.B. Thomas gone to Worcester the Morning.

1744 May 23 (Wednesday). Rainy Day, but old Mr. Rice lys in so low a state and sending for me I ventur’d to go and See him. Visited also Jonathan Tainter in his Waste. When I return’d home Mr. Breck from Springfield was here, but much indispos’d by a Sore Throat. At Eve Dr. Breck came. N.B. The Doctor has bought at Worcester and begins to build there.

1744 May 24 (Thursday). Elijah Rice and Sarah Shattuck were married in the Morning. Mr. Breck and his Brother went to Marlborough.

1744 May 25 (Friday). I rode to Worcester to See the Prisoner Richard Fitz Patrick Committed for the Murther of Daniel Campbell of Rutland. I din’d at Mr. Cushings at Shrewsbury, had Colonel Ward113 for my Company. Call’d at the high Sheriffs, Captain Flaggs,114 who went with me to Reverend Mr. Burrs115 and to the Jayl. Found the prisoner very Ignorant but desirous of Instruction. Having done what in me lay in Instructing him and Praying with him, I went into Colonel Chandlers116 and refresh’d myself and so hastened home. At my House found Mrs. Edwards of Northampton and her Daughter Jerusha, accompany’d by Reverend Mr. Hopkinton117 of Sheffield.

1744 May 26 (Saturday). Mr. Hopkins etc. went off for Boston. Captain Baker118 invites me to dine with him on the 28.

1744 May 27 (Sunday). Repeated on 1 Cor. 6.18, a. and p.m. N.B. in the Close I gave Warning with respect to ‘Lection Diversions. Mr. Coollidge, Mr. Kendal119 of Suffield with his wife din’d here. Likewise Mr. Harrington120 of Framingham and wife and Mrs. Tainter din’d with us.

1744 May 28 (Monday). Din’d with Captain Baker and the other Officers at Captain Fays. N.B. Mr. Coollidge there. N.B. Mr. James and Stephen Fay oppose my sermon Yesterday because of my allowing Recreations of any kind. I visited Amos Whitney and old Mr. Rice who lies exceeding low. At my returning home a little before night Mr. Coollidge and Lieutenant Forbush121 and others met me who acquaint’d me that Benjamin Fays wife Seeing the follys and vanitys of men and the extreme Brevity of Life, cry’d out with loud crys and Lamentations and fervent Beseechings to all about her which She for some time indeed labour’d to restrain And went into the back part of her House, but could not Stifle—which gather’d a throng about her and it lasted Some Time. Stephen Fay also, going down to market met me, and soon getting upon a strain concerning my sermons which I thought very unjust, I look’d upon myself bound in Duty to reprove and admonish him, advise and direct him, which I did Somewhat thoroughly and left it upon him to Reflect upon in his Journey to Boston. N.B. Mr. Cornelius Biglo Shot in the Thigh by Mr. Ebenezer Chamberlain, in their foolish Play and Diversion at Clark (Abner) Newtons.

1744 May 29 (Tuesday). Brother Hicks here—but I set out for Boston: call’d at Mr. Matthias Rice’s to borrow money. Din’d there and then he went with me to his Brother Ephraim Hows and got me 50 Shillings new tenor. Proceeded to Mr. Joseph Tainters where I was very long detain’d for my Coat which was not done. Could get no farther than Saltmarshes122 at Watertown—lodg’d there, and N.B. Mr. Ballantine123 of Westfield lodg’d in the Same House.

1744 May 30 (Wednesday). Early to Father Champneys. Mother poor and low and Consumptive. Proceeded to Boston, my mother weak and faint, and dejected in soul, yet (through Divine Goodness) not so sick nor distress’d as in Time past. My Niece Elizabeth124 very low also, having a pleuretic Fever—but her Brother Elias gets abroad a little. Mr. Allen125 of Brookline on Isa. 6.1. Din’d at Brother Samuels without any other Company. P.M. at the Convention Dr. Sewal126 Moderator but Mr. Eels127 pray’d who were chiefly Settling old accounts. Nothing of Contest to Day respecting the Times. At Eve I retir’d to Brother Alexanders who was Lodg’d with my Kinsman Elias.

1744 May 31 (Thursday). At Convention Sermon but went in late, for it began at 9 a.m. Dr. Chauncey128 on Tit. 2.15, last Clause—Let no man dispise thee. Din’d at Mr. Eliots129 with above 20 more. Mr. Benjamin Bass,130 Dexter,131 Champney,132 Tyler,133 etc. etc. Afterwards at Mr. Mathers134 where there was a large Company also. Mr. Parsons135 of Bradford, Barnard136 of Newbury, Balch137 of Bradford, Breck, Walter138 etc. etc. I visited also Mr. Webb139 and Mr. Gee.140 N.B. Conversation with Mr. Hobby141—at Eve at Mr. Condy’s142—So differently was my time Spent. Supp’d and lodg’d at Brother Samuels—my Kinsman and his Mother being at a Wedding at Mrs. Tylestones.

1744 June 1 (Friday). The Morning and most of the Forenoon I Spent with Mr. Thomas Stoddard who was very full of Experiences of the Lords work upon his Soul—accompany’d me to my mothers who lyes weak and cast down, yet hoping in God. I was full of Concern about my Son Thomme, my hopes all blasted respecting his living with Mr. Emms, who is discourag’d and throws up. I sought to Mr. Skelling the Carver, but in vain—to Mr. Samuel Jarvis, but not direct Success. I was also otherwise variously taken up—partly to make Some Interest in Court lest the Petition of our Coram side of the Town should be granted, which would be (Should it happen) to my inexpressible Detriment. Din’d at Brother Alexanders—waited on Dr. Delhonde143 and paid him for what he had done last year for my Daughter Molly. Exceeding Hot Season—can but just keep alive. At Eve took Very Solemn Leave of my Honor’d aged and dear Parent, and took Thomme to Cambridge.

1744 June 2 (Saturday). Thomme rode behind me and we got home about 2 p.m., while my Family were at Dinner. N.B. I had Mr. Hall and his Wife’s Company from Wards Tavern. Blessed be God I find my Family in Health and peace.

1744 June 3 (Sunday). On Mat. 12.30, and p.m. Repeated sermon on Ps. 99.5.9 from Exod. 15.11, with Some alterations. N.B. A Packet came from England into Boston yesterday and War was to be proclaim’d in the afternoon and was so about 5 o’clock between England and France. N.B. This proclamation of war immediately follow’d by a terrible Shock of an Earthquake about 10 o’Clock this Morning. N.B. Mr. James Fays wife cry’d out very much as Soon as I was come from the meeting House at Noon—and there was great crying out in the woods where a Number were retir’d at Noon. I Stop’d the Church at Eve at the request of Lieutenant Thomas Forbush to See if the Church would put in another Member to supply the place of Brother Whipple144 at Upton Council, who is one of the Committee for answering the North Side’s Petition to the general court, but he holding he should not go to Boston as he conceiv’d

1744 June 4 (Monday). Variety of Company all Day. Mr. Whipple is again induced to go to Boston. Mr. Beaman145 and Josiah Rice with 8 or 9 more resolve to petition that they may not be laid to the design’d New Precinct.

1744 June 5 (Tuesday). Old Mr. Rice yet living. Made him the last Visit and pray’d with him in my way to Upton. It is this Day 20 Years Since I gave my Answer to Settle in this Town. Mr. Rice lives to See it, but dyes this very Day. Did not overtake Deacon Newton till I got to Mr. Fisks146 in Upton. Council met at Mr. Welds,147 and immediately adjourn’d to Captain Sadlers where we were to be entertain’d, and from whence we never stirr’d. All Things relating to the people Separating from Mr. Weld to hear Mr. Pain,148 were conducted smoothly enough and then respecting Mr. Weld’s Maintenance. And we lodg’d comfortably at Captain Sadlers.

1744 June 6 (Wednesday). But when we came to propose the Hearing of the Case relating to Rachel Wheeler, we had great Struggle. It was plain that Mr. Wheeler would never submitt it, nor yield to any Thing that could be done about it. The Vote was put and there appear’d 8 for it and 7 against it, without the Moderator—but there was great Stir and noise on the Yea Side and Mr. Hall and Prentice threaten’d that they would forthwith go home if it was to be kept out, and in short the Moderator upon Considering all the State of Things condescended to give his Vote for hearing it, insisting at the Same Time upon the Liberty to Enter his Dissent in the Result. How much we might then wish for the help of Brother Whipple who was gone to Boston! But at length even he came, whilst in the hearing of the Wheeler Case. See the Minutes of the Council for the rest of the Proceedings. Lieutenant Tainter came to me at Upton to request me to go to Old Mr. Thomas Rice’s Funeral who deceas’d Yesterday, this Month 90 years old, a principal Instrument in obtaining the Grant and Settling of This Town.

1744 June 7 (Thursday). Spent the Day in Debating, and passing Votes of Judgment upon what we had heard. I would have nothing to do with the Wheeler Case—and was Sorry to See Such a reigning Disposition in that part of the Council we were chose by the Dissatisfy’d to carry every thing they could to its height against Mr. Weld. It being very Hot and my Business in the Council Such as requir’d close Attention and continual Application I was very much worried and faint, and a bad Cold also Seiz’d upon me and kept me down.

1744 June 8 (Friday). Exceeding poor and weak, Sweating and fainting Last Night and very little sleep. But in the Morning when I got up and Stirr’d about I revived and was Better. We who were the Committee for drawing up a Result, could not be wholly alone without great Inconvenience. Mr. Hall who had drawn up the most of the Votes which had pass’d in the Council, undertook to draw up the rough Draught for the Result—of that part which was most Critical and difficult. N.B. the church were call’d in (inadvertently) to hear it read, before the Committee themselves could have time to weigh and recommend it, But it was read. Upon my mentioning it to the Moderator how unfit till we had Scann’d and finish’d the Preparation of it—we had the privilege to be alone—and the Draughting the Result took us til late in the Afternoon. Not without many Strivings if not deep mutual Dissatisfactions. But at length it was finish’d, and pass’d in Council though to my great Dislike in many respects. Just before sundown the people were summon’d, Mr. Prentice, at the Moderators desire Read the Result (in Captain Sadlers Entry, for we never went to the meeting House at all) and the Moderator concluded with prayer. Captain Hazzletine and others earnestly requested me to tarry over Night but I was determin’d Home if possible—and Home we came though it was nigh Midnight first. N.B. there had been a press for Soldiers to go up and keep guard in Frontier Towns. Silas Pratt,149 Silas Newton, Jacob Garfield went out of our South Company and Josiah Cutting and Benjamin Wilson out of the North. We Hear the Earthquake was very great at the Eastward particularly Newbury, last Sabbath. It was much noted how this present war breaks forth with the Earthquake. It is Still a great increase of our Calamitys to have such intestine Broils and so furious Contentions among ourselves. N.B. Reverend Mr. Stone preach’d the Lecture in Westborough to day preparatory to the Communion.

1744 June 9 (Saturday). Greatly disquieted with both the Actual Miscarriages and the Defects of the Council at Upton, and made some Remarks thereon. Prepar’d what I could of my sermon for the Communion tomorrow—and O that my own Soul were suitably prepar’d there for! Bekky150 and Lucy151 rode to Sutton. N.B. Mr. James Bowman took the Care of a Letter from me to Mr. Weld of Upton.

1744 June 10 (Sunday). Relations of those who stood Candidates for Admission into the church not brought till just before I went out to Meeting. Preach’d on 1 Cor. 11.16. P.M. (as last Sabbath p.m.) on the Holiness of God. Mr. Coollidge having mov’d his Lodgings nigher meeting, viz. to Mr. Samuel Williams’s, din’d at home. Captain Fay, Mrs. Adams [blank] din’d with us. O might it please God to Sanctifie both his Word and Sacraments to our highest Benefit!

1744 June 11 (Monday). Mr. Coollidge152 opens School at Lieutenant Aaron Forbush’s, and sent Ebenezer there. Mr. Samuel Biglo and his wife, of Shrewsbury here upon their Spiritual Concerns. Mr. Weld came, and manifested his great Disgust at what the Council had done. He lodg’d here. Thomas mow’d the fore Yard and Garden.

1744 June 12 (Tuesday). Mr. Frost153 of Mill-river in Mendon here with a Young Lady, in their Journey to Brookfield; soon after Mr. Weld had taken leave, and went up the Road to Shrewsbury. Mr. Salter154 from Mansfield here also. Captain Maynard’s Training. Great Ruffle and Contests in the Breasts and partly breaking forth in the Conduct and Conversations of many of the North side soldiers. N.B. Mr. Wheeler as I was going into the Meeting House to prayer, told me he thought they were hardly in a Frame fit for Such Things—but I ask’d him whether we ought not to labour to be Compos’d, at least so far forth to beg of God to prepare us? A great Favour that Colonel Nahum Ward and Colonel Williams155 came, and were present at Reading the Laws, Viewing arms etc. that the unruly might be rebuk’d and kept down. N.B. It had been said that a certain Man on the North side [promised?] a Gallon of Rum if they would rebell against Captain Maynard—and a man was ready (as it was conceived) to head them. Mr. Wheeler was thought to be the first of these and Corporal Nathan Ball the other. But in Public and whenever I was present I saw no indecency for which I was greatly rejoic’d and that Captain Eager156 and Lieutenant Holloway157 din’d with us at Captain Maynards, as did Mr. Salter (who went down with me) likewise. P.M., Dr. Breck from Worcester here, but he went to Marlborough at Evening. N.B. Neighbour Chamberlain mov’d his Family and his Goods to Leicester, and Thomas Winchester had my Mare to help with their Children. N.B. Rebecca Hicks and my little Lucy return’d from Sutton, though a Very hot Day.

1744 June 13 (Wednesday). Very hot again. Thomas and the Boys with him half-hilling.

1744 June 14 (Thursday). I had appoint’d a Catechetical Exercise for young Women today but a great Storm arose just at the Hour appointed which prevented their Coming.

1744 June 15 (Friday). [No entry.]

1744 June 16 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1744 June 17 (Sunday). On Mat. 12.31.32. A very awful Subject! O that we might have a right understanding of it and Suitably improve it!

1744 June 18 (Monday). [No entry.]

1744 June 19 (Tuesday). Rode to the Association at Shrewsbury. See the Association Records. N.B. was at Smith Allens Shop to get my Horse Shod before I went up to Mr. Cushings. Was also at Dr. Smiths158 being much Concern’d for Mr. Jonathan Livermores wife who I understand is in a wasting state.

1744 June 20 (Wednesday). Mr. Loring preach’d an Excellent sermon on Heb. 6.11. After Dinner I rode to Worcester (accompany’d by Reverend Mr. Davis159 of Holden). Visited Dr. Breck but my Special Design was to make a Visit to the poor prisoner.160 I found him willing to submitt to Instruction, but in no very deep Concern about his State. I very familiarly explain’d to him 10 principal Heads of Christian Religion which I had drawn up for that purpose and which I left at the Jayl that they who were there might often read to him. I pray’d with him. Waited on Madam Chandler (the Colonel being at Boston) and return’d home to Westborough the same Night. N.B. accompany’d some Miles by Mr. Curtis of Worcester being very full of his Uneasiness with Mr. Burr, and how far they had proceeded about Calling a Council.

1744 June 21 (Thursday). Mr. Dorr161 of Mendon and Mr. Weld made me a Visit and din’d here; But they would not Stay to the Lecture (at 4 o’Clock p.m.)—full of remarks upon the late Result. I preach’d to a thin Auditory, from Tit. 2.6. N.B. receiv’d a Letter from Mr. Hall requesting a Copy of our Result.

1744 June 22 (Friday). Richard Roberts here a.m. David Marble (from old Mr. Prentice’s of Lancaster). Sent by those Young Men a Return to Mr. Halls request of the Result. P.M. Sudden Storms arose—of Thunder, Wind and Rain. Thomas got in part of a Load of Hay only: and that considerably wet before he could house it. N.B. Mrs. Rebecca Hayward162 here about a Quarrill between her and Mrs. Townsend.163

1744 June 23 (Saturday). I rode up to Deacon Cyprian Keyes’s164 in order to Change with Mr. Morse, but miss’d of Mr. Morse,165 he having gone to our House in a different Road. Rainy Night.

1744 June 24 (Sunday). Morning—preach’d at North Shrewsbury on Rom. 8.7, a. and p.m. Din’d at Lieutenant Taylors.166 N.B. Mr. Sparhawk167 Schoolmaster in the Town din’d with me. After the Exercises Ebenezer Ball pilotted me over to his uncle Livermore’s, that I might See his Wife who was in a Wasting Languishing State, was told she was not like to live, and I understood that the way was shorter than I found it to be—but my Circumstances were like to be such that I could not visit her for Several Weeks. I return’d to my Family at Evening. Both Mr. Morse and Mr. Coollidge lodg’d here.

1744 June 25 (Monday). Mr. Morse went home. Mr. Coollidge din’d here. Sarah Tainter168 here in order to her joining the Church.

1744 June 26 (Tuesday). [No entry.]

1744 June 27 (Wednesday). Mr. Chamberlin from Leicester here. We had some disquietment about his delaying to pay Rogers’s Debt which Should have been paid last February or rather (as it was due) last December 25, but I prevented much Contest and dismiss’d it for the present.

1744 June 28 (Thursday). Publick Fast on account of the War and the Earthquake. I preach’d a.m. on Ps. 46.6, p.m. on Isa. 1.4.

1744 June 29 (Friday). Major Jones169 of Hopkinton here. Mr. Lawrence here about Chamberlins Debt.

1744 June 30 (Saturday). Have heard that there are 4 Indians gone down to Boston with the Commissioners that lately went to Albany to treat with them. Six Nations. One of the Said Indians is look’d upon as a Chief of the Whole Six Nations: and that they design to proceed to the Eastward.

1744 July 1 (Sunday). On Isa. 66.2. N.B. p.m. there arose a great Storm of Rain and Thunder, just as we broke off our public Exercises which detain’d the Assembly in the Meeting House. I led them to Sing part of Ps. 147. N.B. Mr. Stephen Fays Wife cry’d out very much at the Time of a loud Clap of Thunder. I discours’d with her at my House afterwards before She went home, and She said the Spirit of God struck here at the Same Time with that Clap, and (having been in great Distress for some Time before) she was fill’d with much Terror by reason of her sins.

1744 July 2 (Monday). Mr. Livermore here to pay me some Money—not a little Discourse concerning the State of the Town—Dividing—Military Affairs etc. Mr. Morse of Shrewsbury and Master Timothy Pain with him on their Journey to Medfield in order to attend upon Commencement, and Mr. Timothy to be Examin’d for Entrance into College. Brother Hicks here.

1744 July 3 (Tuesday). Brother Hicks and I to Cambridge. On the Road Mr. Cushing of Shrewsbury and Two of his Neighbours in Company. Mr. Fortunatus Woods170 also. I got down so seasonably as to make a Visit over to Town. There was Mr. Messinger171 of Wrentham my old Friend at College. Sir Williams’s172 and at the Buttery.

1744 July 4 (Wednesday). At Meeting the Gratulatory oration was delay’d till the Governor and the Mohawk Chiefs came. I din’d in the Hall. The Mohawks din’d there also. N.B. Great Disorder (we hear) were lately at Ipswich by means of one Woodberry173 who with Mr. Gilman174 of Durham has Sent Letters to many Ministers of the Province as from the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. N.B. I transcribed a Letter of Mr. Newmans175 Study from Madam Christian Wainwright176 of Ipswich to Madam Dudly177 of Roxbury respecting the Ipswich Disorders in the last Month, horrible to relate. My Brother Samuel Parkman was present at Ipswich whilst some of those Facts were done.

1744 July 5 (Thursday). Early in the Morning I rode to Boston. At Breakfast at Mr. Josiah Quincys178 with the 4 Mohawks. Their Names Anerek (or Henrich) Thoyennoga, James, Kayea wire gowa, these Two were elderly men and Chiefs; Yonathan, Kayea wire gowa, and Joseph, Onondager. (N.B. I copy’d their Names from the Writing of Yonathan (or Jonathan) Kayea wire gowa.) Mrs. Kellogg of Suffield being Interpretress. Their Design was to go to the Eastward to bear a message to the Eastward Indians also. Thoyennogea was very ready, pleasant and intelligent, and especialy gave free answers to our Enquiries concerning their Sentiments in matters of Religion. We understand that all these 4 are Baptiz’d and Submitt to the Instruction of an English minister who is settled among them for 2 Towns which are call’d Skenecktada—about 12 Miles above Albany. They tell us the Cagnawaya’s were afore hand of them in saying that in the War between France and England they must not meddle. They inform that Timothy Rice has been out of Health, and that his son has return’d from his warring with the Flatt Heads.

Mr. Barnard179 of Marblehead preach’d the public Lecture on Gal. 2.20 latter part on Assurance. I din’d with the Venerable Dr. Colman, where also din’d Mr. Turell,180 Mr. Josiah Cotton,181 and Mr. Byles.182 Am inform’d that Mr. Dutton a Baptist Minister, whose Life I not long Since read is lately come from England to Boston and preach’d to Day at Dorcester. My aged Mother very Feeble and scarcely able to go across the Room. I return’d to Cambridge at Evening. N.B. in my way was very mercifully preserv’d from being Crush’d by a 4 Wheel Chaise in a narrow Passage nigh Roxbury meeting House, but receiv’d not much Hurt. D.G. plurimas! N.B. Cousin Winchester of Westborough lodg’d at Father Champneys.

1744 July 6 (Friday). Brother Hicks to Boston but Cousin Winchester and I rode together to Westborough. I call’d at Mr. Cooks183 in Waterton to see his Books—Clarks Martyral and Lives.184 I din’d at Mr. Darlings185 on the Road. We stop’d also at old Mr. Shermans186 in Marlborough—had a great deal of talk with my Kinswoman about the New Lights as they are term’d and particularly her own sourness and Disaffectedness and reprov’d her for many Things. Got home in the middle of the Afternoon.

1744 July 7 (Saturday). Close engag’d in my Preparations. Thomas Winchester has carry’d on the Business and conducted the Boys in the Hilling and Haying. Nor any Evil befallen my Family in my absence. Blessed be God. Brother Hicks came up from Boston last night and lodged here, and to Day he went home.

1744 July 8 (Sunday). I preach’d on Isa. 66.2 and p.m. repeated my Exposition on Mat. 7.22.23. The Lord grant us Grace savingly to profit by the Means thereof.

1744 July 9 (Monday). John Rogers work’d with Thomas. A.M. They mow’d Barley. P.M. they went to the Meadow. I rode to some Number of Houses—old Mr. Whipples, Stephen Fays. Din’d at Captain Fays. Talked’d with Mr. Benjamin Fays wife concerning her Emotions and crying out on the Training Day at their House. Was at Mr. Grouts and made a Business of Visiting and discoursing with Mr. James Fay and his wife, Mr. Fay having been absent now four Days running from the public Assemblys. He told that he had not been so disgusted as to leave us, be [but?] we were Crowded at our Meeting House, and he liv’d almost as near and handy to Grafton. Besides that he intimated to me that the Grand Jury man (Mr. Miller) threatned to present them for Disorderly Behaviour because his wife cry’d out on the Day of the Earthquake. I could not find that our Conversation together would be serviceable towards a Reconcilement let me do or say even ever so much either Spiritually or Condescendingly and endearingly. I also Sometimes reprov’d—nor did I soon come away but tarry’d till the sun was not very high—but after all came away with Grief. He, in the Course of the Talk told me my conversation was but a little of Spiritual Things—that Mr. Prentices Sermons were lively, profitable and Excellent—that as for me I very much affected such ministers as were opposite—but especially I was Sett against those whom he could not bear to hear a word against: Such as Mr. Bliss and Mr. Prentice. After visiting Mr. Fay I went to Mr. Whitneys where I found far Different Dispositions—and to Lieutenant Tainters. N.B. Jonathan I think wears away.

1744 July 10 (Tuesday). Thomas and Neighbour Rogers to the Meadow a.m. Thomas at home p.m. Neighbour Rogers p.m. work’d for Neighbour Maynard. No Barley [?] to reap though much was expected. N.B. I visited William Clarks two Children that were sick. Met Mr. Lawrence who rode with me to Mr. Caruths.187

1744 July 11 (Wednesday). Thomas and Rogers at the Meadow but Rogers not till 10 o’Clock. A.M. showery. Mrs. Sibyl Child188 here to be examin’d in order to her joining with the Church.

1744 July 12 (Thursday). The Meadow waited on by all Hands, viz. Thomas, Neighbour Rogers and the Two Boys. My Wife not well. Last night we began to Wean Sarah. My wife to Marlborough. Ensign Bruce here in the Morning. Some time before noon he Sent me his son Jonathan who reap’d down my Winter Rye, 6 Shock, and we got it into the Barn at Evening. Held the Catechetical Exercise and preach’d on Ps. 27.7.

1744 July 13 (Friday). Mr. Chamberlain here in the Morning. He hinder’d Neighbour Rogers part of the Morning. Rogers and Thomas at the Meadow. They Carted home 3 Load and finish’d Mowing the Meadow, for they Left a part which was so thin and Dead that they Concluded was not worth Cutting. N.B. That being late in the morning they work’d late at Evening for it. My wife return’d from Marlborough. N.B. The Child weans without Trouble.

1744 July 14 (Saturday). Thomas and Rogers and the Boys at Work at the Meadow. Rak’d up all and brought home 2 Load. Have suffer’d myself to be hinder’d very litte by these hurrys.

1744 July 15 (Sunday). A. and p.m. on Joel 3.13, former part. N.B. A very fervent Address to old People. N.B. Mr. Coollidge comes in commonly after the public Exercises and this Evening seems somewhat affected and awaken’d. The Lord grant these awakening Things may be a quickening to us all to improve our Golden Opportunity and Advantages!

1744 July 16 (Monday). Thomas with the Boys got home one Load of Meadow Hay before the Rain.

1744 July 17 (Tuesday). [No entry.]

1744 July 18 (Wednesday). I went to Mr. Francis Whipples to take him with me to Mendon but he could not go. I proceeded to Lieutenant Tainters to see poor Jonathan who is very low in his Wasting and Consumption and not like to continue, yet Say, but little only that he is pritty much in the Dark, yet would hope in the Mercy of God. After prayer and Some Instructions I rode to Mendon. Mr. Webb189 of Uxbridge and his wife, and Mr. Prentice190 of Holliston at Mr. Dor’s. Mr. Prentice could not Stay to Lecture. I preach’d on Luke 16.23. O that after as many Times preaching this Sermon and I hope not altogether without Success to others I might obtain Grace from God to become truely Serious and Considerate myself! Rode back with Captain Tyler as far as to his House, and it rain’d so that I was oblig’d to lodge there all Night.

1744 July 19 (Thursday). Very heavy Rains early in the Morning but clear’d off so afterwards that I return’d home. Captain Tyler being so good as to accompany me part of the way as far as Mr. Matthew Tafts. N.B. I call’d also at Mr. Freelands191 in Hopkinton. P.M. I preach’d on [sic] Preparatory Lecture from Ps. 24.4.5. N.B. Mr. Coollidge here after meeting and I perceiv’d him to be free and ready in Classical Learning, except in Tullys Orations etc. but upon several Occasions Dropping very Dark sentences about himself. Scil. his own Spiritual and Eternal State and Condition which were very terrible to hear—nor could he receive any Reply, Direction nor Encouragement that I could give him.

1744 July 20 (Friday). Thomas Carted home the last Load of the Meadow Hay. P.M. a very Considerable Thunder Storm but we and ours mercifully preserv’d. D.G. May we have, and ever Maintain the true, holy filial Fear of God and be Cur’d of a slavish Dread which keeps us in Bondage and gives Torment! For Blessed is the man that (truely) feareth alwayes!

1744 July 21 (Saturday). Brother Hicks and his son Samuel going to Cambridge. N.B. Samme is going to mow there. Brother Champney being ill and Father Champney too aged, so that their English Grass Stands from Week to Week uncutt, in great Part.

1744 July 22 (Sunday). Sacrament. I preach’d a.m. on 1 Cor. 11.26, p.m. on Joel 3.13. Captain Fay and Mr. Coollidge at Dinner. At Eve Mr. William Williams of Mansfield192 here.

1744 July 23 (Monday). Thomas mow’d at Lieutenant Tainters for Mr. Dunlops reaping Rye this Same Day for me. My Wife rode with me to see Mr. Samuel Fay, junior, his Wife who has lain confin’d for nigh 11 months, and Jonathan Tainter who is in a deep Consumption. We were also at Mr. Charles Rice’s.193

1744 July 24 (Tuesday). The last of our Home Cutt Hay got into the Barn. Thomas Reap’d Rye the rest of the Day. I Catechiz’d a. and p.m. Very Faint and weak. Brother Hicks return’d from Cambridge. Read Dr. Peter Kings Biographic Ecclesiastica.194 Very Hot. Thomas to Worcester middle of p.m.

1744 July 25 (Wednesday). [No entry.]

1744 July 26 (Thursday). Chiefly on my Preparations from Day to Day, having been for Some time greatly troubled at the Scantiness of them.

1744 July 27 (Friday). [No entry.]

1744 July 28 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1744 July 29 (Sunday). On Matt. 13.39, a. and p.m. Deacon Forbush,195 who had requested me to preach at his home next Thursday, told me of his Brother Tainters196 request for the Sake of his son Jonathan to move the Place of the Lecture by the Consent of the Brethren of the Meeting to his House, Jonathan being not like to go abroad again or long to continue; and upon their Consulting Such Brethren of the Meeting as they could light of and obtaining Consent thereto, I appointed the Lecture accordingly to be at said Tainters on the next Thursday 4 p.m. and likewise propounded the Desires of his Daughter Sarah to join in full Communion with the Church.

1744 July 30 (Monday). In the Morning I rode down to Mr. Beemans and Matthias Rice’s. Thomas help’d Levi Brigham p.m.

1744 July 31 (Tuesday). Thomas work’d at Mr. Beemans. P.M. Mr. Jonathan Forbush came suddenly to call me to see his poor Brother Jonathan Tainter. I found him very low, but had his reason and could Speak a few words at a Time softly yet somewhat Audibly. He had no such direct Evidence as to give him much Comfort, but yet he hop’d and desir’d; and Hopes and Desires were the Chief of what I could get from him. Many were gather’d there. I pray’d with him, after what moving and Instructing Exhortations I could give both to him and the by-Standers. About sun setting I left him. N.B. Mrs. Dunlop rode with me part of the way back and she was under much Spiritual Trouble. N.B. Hannah Forbush (the Deacons youngest Daughter) in distressing Concern. I call’d in at Mr. Williams to see Mr. Coollidge as I return’d. My wife inform’d me that Mr. Andrew Boardman197 and Sister Williams198 had bin to visit me.

1744 August 1 (Wednesday). Thomas did not come here from Mr. Beemans till 11 o’Clock. Neighbour How199 came in the morning and told me that Jonathan Tainter dy’d last Evening and This Day he was to be bury’d; and accordingly was so. N.B. Thomas at Burial, so that he wrought but about 2 Hours today, or but little more.

1744 August 2 (Thursday). Mr. Matthias Rice informs me that the Mohawks on their Journey home came to Marlborough last night, and that several Canada Indians are expected down. I preach’d at Lieutenant Tainters on Isa. 40.6.7.8, and may the Lord give it his peculiar Blessing! N.B. Among others Mrs. Stevens of Grafton there.

1744 August 3 (Friday). Thomas at Mr. Beeman’s. I was devoted to my Business, in some Measure as I was able, but I was much indispos’d in Body, and could not make Dispatch.

1744 August 4 (Saturday). Thomas at Mr. Beemans. Mr. John Sparhawk Schoolmaster at Shrewsbury came at Evening and lodg’d here. N.B. The School in the Middle of the Town over.

1744 August 5 (Sunday). Mr. Sparhawk kept Sabbath here. I preach’d on Mat. 12.33.34.35. P.M. on James 5.9. Mr. Coollidge and Mr. Sparhawk Supp’d and Lodg’d there.

1744 August 6 (Monday). Mr. Sparhawk return’d to Shrewsbury in the Morning. Mr. Coollidge Stay’d and din’d. He seems to be in great Horrors and Despairs. N.B. Eli Forbush with me in the Morning very much engag’d in the Business of his Soul and appears to have experienc’d some Remarkable Convictions. Mrs. Stevens (wife of Israel) of Grafton having experienc’d wonderful awakenings, was here with me. She assures me she is not able to admitt many things which she finds among her Nei[gh]bours—regard to Dreams, and holding the most sensible Communion with God in sleep, etc. She and her sister Rice din’d with me. P.M. Mrs. Thankful Maynard200 here desirous to join with the Church. At Eve Thunder storm arose. Thomas at Mr. Beemans.

1744 August 7 (Tuesday). I visited Mr. John Caruth’s wife who languishes in Body and is very much distress’d in Mind. As I was riding over upon this visit Captain Forbush met me and acquaint’d me that a man was kill’d last night by his Cart near Ensign Bruce’s in this Town. At my Return home I was requested to attend the Funeral of the Said poor Man, at 4 p.m. I had appointed with myself that this Afternoon I would visit in that Corner and my Wife and I accordingly rode down to Mr. Ebenezer Chamberlains and by means thereof we were till somewhat past 5 when I got to Ensign Bruce’s, the people being very much gather’d and long waiting. It was a very sorrowful Time! The providence very awfull indeed. The man was of Sutton, one Mr. Samuel March of about 29 or 30 Years, originally from Newbury. His poor mournfull widow, the Daughter of Captain Sibley201 of Sutton was there, with her Father and Some Number of Sutton Friends along with them. The Lord Sanctifie His holy dispensation in peculiar to them and to his Mate (Mr. Holbrook) who was upon the Road with another Team just before Mr. March; but O that God would also enable all of us to make a Suitable Improvement of So awakening a Providence, and Convince us that we know not the Hour! For as Saith Solomon man also knoweth not his Time: as the Fishes etc. and as the Birds, etc. So are the sons of men Snared in an Evil Time, when it cometh Suddenly upon them. Eccl. 9.12. N.B. I understand that 5 Indians of the Cagawaya’s went to Boston last Friday; and that Some Considerable part of our Soldiers who were sent out to guard and Scout in our New Towns, were call’d in, and had return’d. Thomas at Mr. Beemans.

1744 August 8 (Wednesday). Rainy Day. Thomas came home from Mr. Beemans.

1744 August 9 (Thursday). My Kinsman Needham202 with his Wife from Norwich and they carry away their son Thomas with them. N.B. I gave him everything that he carry’d away with him, except his Coat which Mr. Needham agrees to pay me for. P.M. Mrs. Eager and her Sister Mrs. Patty Ward rode here in their Chair to make us a Visit. Many Interruptions by Company almost from Morning till night. Thomas Set up a New Rail Fence between my Fore yard and Garden.

1744 August 10 (Friday). [No entry.]

1744 August 11 (Saturday). Mr. Matthew Bridge203 going up to preach at North Sutton and Mr. John Brown204 with him. They din’d here.

1744 August 12 (Sunday). On Eccl. 9.12, on occasion of the Sudden Death of Mr. Samuel March on the 6th Instant. May the Lord Sanctifie both his Word and Providence to us that we may be Quicken’d and O that we may be found ready how suddenly so ever we Should be Summon’d! Mr. Coollidge din’d with me.

1744 August 13 (Monday). The Towns Committee went down to the General Court to reply to the Petition of the North side. I wrote to Mr. Danforth by Ensign Rice. P.M. I was at Captain Bakers205 an Hour or Two, he not being well, nor could go to Court. Rainy at my return in the Evening, found Mr. Brown and Bridge from Sutton at my House. And they lodg’d here.

1744 August 14 (Tuesday). They rode with me to Sudbury to Ministers Meeting. We went first to Mr. Smiths206 at Marlborough and he requested my Mare might be put into his Chaise and we rode together. See Association Records for Mr. Barretts Concio on 2 Cor. 5.20 etc. N.B. Mr. Gardner207 an Excellent prayer in the Evening with the Family. N.B. Mr. Cook208 came among us. Mr. Smith rode my mare to Mr. Cooks.

1744 August 15 (Wednesday). There was more Business done by the Association than usual—more Collections, etc. Mr. Swift209 of Acton preach’d a Smart, bold Sermon on Mat. 13.5.6. After Dinner Mr. Wood,210 Deacon Miles211 and others from Concord came in among us to request the Ministers so far to Countenance Them of their Party as to preach among them in their Separation from Mr. Bliss.212 But they were rather advis’d to seek out some suitable Young Gentleman to preach to them and leave it to him to Change with neighbouring Ministers as they Should incline or see prudentest. Return’d home through Marlborough and for the Sake of Mr. Cushing and Mr. Morse’s213 Company, by Ensign Bartletts. Found Mr. Weld214 here.

1744 August 16 (Thursday). Mr. Weld left us—but not before Ensign Wood of Upton also, came, both of them on Account of Council papers. Mr. Weld to return Some and Ensign Wood to take off a Copy of his Daughters Oath. N.B. Two Exercises yesterday and the like to Day at Grafton but I could not go up, having so newly come Home, and much Business lyes behind. At Eve Mr. Cornelius Cook here, and was partly Examin’d in order to his joining with the Church.

1744 August 17 (Friday). Captain Maynard and Mr. Francis Whipple return’d from Boston and inform’d that having laid their Reply to the North side’s Petition, before a Committee of the Honorable Board, viz. Judge Wilder,215 Colonel Berry,216 Captain Watts,217 a Committee was appointed by the Two Houses to come up and View the Town and make report accordingly. Said committee were Captain Watts, Major James218 and Mr. Dodge, to come up Next Tuesday come fortnight.

1744 August 18 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1744 August 19 (Sunday). On Mat. 12.36. P.M. repeat’d on Mat. 7.24 to 27. Mr. Coollidge219 din’d with me.

1744 August 20 (Monday). Ebenezer Wheeler brought me a summons to answer in Court tomorrow at Worcester Court in the Case depending between Reverend Mr. Weld of Upton and Rachel Wheeler of Grafton. N.B. Samuel Baker here to be examin’d in order to his joining with the Church. P.M. Mr. Cook with me on the Same Errand. At Eve Captain Maynard and Mr. Whipple here.

1744 August 21 (Tuesday). I early rode to Colonel Wards220 to enquire whether the Business of the sessions would be likely to bring the Wheeler Case on to Day? The Reason of My Enquiry was, I had appointed the Catechetical Exercise to Young Women to be this afternoon before I had known any Thing of Mr. Wheelers summons. Who told me it would be Contrary to Custom of the Court if it was call’d, and assur’d me I might safely return home for to Day. Upon which I return’d accordingly. P.M. attended upon my Catechizing of Young Women, and deliver’d them a sermon on Ps. 25.7. Hannah Forbush221 full of Spiritual Concern came to my House, as her Brother Eli had been not long Since.

1744 August 22 (Wednesday). I rode up to Worcester Court—from Mr. Cushings had Dr. Stanton Prentice’s222 Company. Visited Mr. Burr and Dr. Breck.223 Mr. Solomon Prentice came there and we went together to the Court—where I attended the forenoon. I din’d at Mr. Burrs with Mr. Loring224 of Marlborough and Dr. Breck. P.M. a very lazy Time, whilst I neither Care to be at the Court, it being Sultry Hot, nor Ventur’d to go to the prisoner (Edward Fitz Patrick) but convers’d with Some of my old Nei[gh]bours who had gone from us whom I occassionally light of, and at Eve was at Mr. Waldo’s.225 But I lodg’d with my Brother Breck. N.B. at Captain Daniel Wards226 where I lodg’d, Mr. Ebenezer Wheeler and many of that Company had taken up their Quarters.

1744 August 23 (Thursday). In the Morning after the Rain I went to the Jayl and Spent Some Time with the prisoner who is as Yet unhumbled—has talk’d of late in a Strain of denyal of the Fact, and grumbles at his Windows being Shutt up (though at That tis thought he receiv’d ill Counsel) and Complains of the Room he is confin’d in etc.—as if he was treated hardly because he was a Stranger. Mr. Campbell227 of Oxford there and pray’d with him, and whilst we were in the Jayl the Wheeler Case was call’d at Court, and was thrown out of that Court. I din’d with Mr. Solomon Prentice at Mr. Eatons.228 P.M. return’d home having Mr. Dana229 the Lawyers Company great part of the way, but he proceeded down the Road to Marlborough.

1744 August 24 (Friday). Mrs. Hephzibath Maynard230 here p.m. but my wife gone to visit Neighbour Davids231 wife who is ill. Thomas gets Fencing Stuff, having mow’d our Bushes over.

1744 August 25 (Saturday). Thomas Cutt Stalks. I was (according to my Custom) confin’d closely in my Study as I was yesterday also, yet having met with So many hindrances all the fore part of the Week I was too much behind in my preparations.

1744 August 26 (Sunday). A.M. on Matt. 12.36.37. P.M. on 10.38.39. Mr. Coollidge din’d with me. He appears very gloomy, very Despairing of his Eternal State. At Eve James Bradish, junior deliver’d me a Letter from the Separate Church in New Haven, praying assistance in Council on the 13th of September next.

1744 August 27 (Monday). Mr. Ebenezer Rice came about noon to get my Team to go to Boston. I rode to Mr. Winchester232 and obtain’d his Oxen to go with my own to Boston. Thomas went with the Team to Mr. Abraham Temple’s at Grafton for the Load and so Set out with it before Day. Brother Hicks and Deacon Hall233 of Sutton here. They went to Boston.

1744 August 28 (Tuesday). Visited Captain Forbush who is sick of a Fever. A Council of Five Churches sat at Grafton, The Churches of Lancaster, Oxford, East Sudbury, Waltham and Southborough, being call’d by the agrieved only. I Hear that the North and south side of this Town have employ’d Major Jones234 of Hopkinton to measure the Roads of this Town—and that they begin to Day.

1744 August 29 (Wednesday). Major Jones with his Chain Men accompany’d by Mr. Miller,235 Deacon Forbush236 and Beriah Rice,237 are come, in their measuring, to my gate, and thence proceed to the South Eastward to go down to Mr. Belknaps Corner. At Eve I visited Captain Forbush who grows worse, yet sleeps very much Day and Night.

1744 August 30 (Thursday). A.M. Major Hicks238 of Salem, Deacon Whittemore239 and Mr. Joseph Bradford, with Brother Hicks who met them on his Journey down, and return’d to Sutton with them, but was now proceeding on his Journey again. They din’d here and took Leave. P.M. I preach’d on John 1.11, and after Exercise read the Letter from New Haven receiv’d last Sabbath. At Eve I visited Captain Forbush who is not much better. Major Jones Measuring again to Day. Heard that the Council at Grafton had perswaded the Church and agrieved Brethren to unite in Calling a Council consisting of the following Churches, Mr. Prescotts240 of Salem, Mr. Wigglesworths241 of Ipswich, Mr. Emersons242 of Malden, Mr. Turells243 of Medford, and Mr. Hobbys244 of Reading.

1744 August 31 (Friday). Thomas return’d in safety from Boston in the Night; and it was the greater Favour as it prov’d a very rainy morning, which follow’d.

1744 September 1 (Saturday). Have understood that the prisoner FitzPatrick had made his Escape out of Worcester Jayl—But is taken again. Brother Hicks here who brought me a Letter from Reverend Mr. Webb245 of Boston intimating to me that it is unlikely that he shall go to New Haven to be upon the Council there.

1744 September 2 (Sunday). Sacrament day. Mr. Coolldge, Captain Fay246 and his Daughter Goodenow247 din’d with me. I preach’d a.m. on 1 Cor. 11.26. P.M. repeated Sermon on 2 John 8. A.M. not without some hope that God was among us—but yet we have very great Reason to be humbled under a sense of our Leanness and Blindness, our Negligence and sinfullness. I again laid the New Haven Letter before the Church but they did not see Cause to Consent to the Request thereof. They urg’d that they as it was far off So they could not come to any tolerable understanding of their Case; nor could Learn how that Society had Separated from Mr. Noyes,248 etc. For my own part, I could not inform them, having never been inform’d myself, and I thought myself too nearly ally’d to Mr. Pierpont,249 to warrant my pressing the matter upon them.

1744 September 3 (Monday). I visited Ensign Josiah Rice’s Child, ill of the Cankers; and Captain Forbush who Still lyes sick of a Fever. The Lord look upon him and be gracious to him. N.B. Mr. Batchellour and his partner, Mr. Goodhew, flourish in their Coopering at Captain Maynards250 and to Day sent a Load of Barrells to Boston. This is the first Load out of the Town.

1744 September 4 (Tuesday). The Gentlemen whom the General Court has Sent as their Committee to View this Town and Judge of the Circumstances hereof, and make Report accordingly—viz. The Honorable Samuel Watts Esq. of Chelsey, Major Jones of Hopkinton and Mr. Dodge251 of Wenham, are suppos’d to be at Hopkinton. P.M. Mr. Joseph Wheeler and Samuel Allen here good part of the Afternoon, but went south I suppose to wait (with others) upon the Said Gentlemen; but it was so rainy that they came not into Town. I wrote to the Society in New Haven which had lately sent to us.

1744 September 5 (Wednesday). The Rain prevail’d greatly and continued all Day. So that neither did the Courts Committee come to us to Day. An Exceeding Rainy Time. Jejun. priv. vide Natal. The Lord enable me to take due Notice of his adorable patience and long suffering towards me! I now enter upon my 42nd Year. The Rain so heavy that if I would ever So fain I could not go to Southborough to Day, as requested by Mr. Stone252 to preach his Lecture.

[In the Natalitia is recorded the following under date of September 5.]

September 5. I endeavour’d to humble my Soul with Fasting, and I Spent the Day chiefly in acts of Religion and Devotion.

I first Consider’d and then endeavour’d to praise God for, His astonishing Patience and rich Goodness towards Me.

I reflected with some seriousness upon my ungratefull Returns to God—recollecting my past conduct, and especially my youthfull; my Soul was fill’d with much both Shame and Grief. My late Transgression also testifie against me, and ought deeply to humble me: the Defects of my Ministry and my own unprofitableness and unfaithfulness under my Christian Obligations.

I sought the Lord in prayer and supplication for Pardoning Mercy and sanctifying Grace. I sought for myself—for my Family—for my Flock. I carry’d their present state to God as they are now engag’d in the great Affair of Dividing the Town, and the General Courts Committee now here among us. I carry’d to God also, as I was able, the state of the Churches of this Land, as circumstanc’d at this Day. I renewed my Solemn Engagements before the Lord and my Resolutions to walk before Him (by his Grace assisting me) in Integrity all the Days of Life.

1744 September 6 (Thursday). But gratify’d Mr. Cushing (as far as I was able) by preaching to Day for him. Text John 1.11. Very few at Meeting there. Mr. Samuel Biglo’s wife with Me, in her soul Distresses still. Return’d at Evening. N.B. The Courts Committee view’d the south part of the Town. I was with them at Eve at Captain Maynards. N.B. Mr. Ebenezer Baker of Marlborough a great Interruption of our Conversation there.

1744 September 7 (Friday). So grievously broke in upon by the Various Matters of the View of the Town etc., that I could not attend to My Studys. Din’d with the Committee at Captain Eagers.253 N.B. Lieutenant Holloway intimated to Me that it was agreeable to my own Desire that I was with the Committee whereas it was in Conformity to their Special Request Sent me by Captain Eager and Captain Eagers own personal Request that I put myself to the Trouble to go over and din’d there. N.B. Captain Watt’s advice that I would not engage myself in the Disputes of my Neighbours about Dividing the Town, The Rather because they all, universally express’d so much Love and Esteem etc. and were each of them desirous to enjoy me among them. Conformable to his Advice I Said nothing but after a little Space retir’d.

1744 September 8 (Saturday). I had many close Reflections upon myself, Chastizing myself for my Pusillanimity that I did not boldly bear my Testimony against the slender Provisions in the Most Towns throughout the Country for the Maintenance of ministers, which withholding more than is Meet tendeth to Poverty and is one of the Principal Causes of the many Dissentions in the Land—but know not what the Event would be if I had Zealously appear’d in it since it might soon have involv’d me in what the Committee had so much advis’d me against. However my mind was Somewhat Eas’d when Major Jones and Mr. Dodge came along by my House in the forenoon in their return home (Captain Watts going down the Road from Captain Eagers), for though I could not have Opportunity to declare my mind last night yet I did to the fore-named Gentlemen to Day. Lieutenant Holloway and Mr. Jacob Rice being in Company with them. In which I expressly declar’d especialy that I could not by any means Countenance Such Divisions of Towns or Parishes as incapacitated them for bearing the necessary Public Charge etc., and that notwithstanding all the Love which the Town express’d to Me yet I intimated that they certainly did not provide for me as was necessary to enable me to answer their Expectations from me. Captain Maynard at my House afterwards, and at noon Lieutenant Holloway and Rice—but would not stay to dine. P.M. Mr. Coollidge returns from the North side and keeps School no more, being far gone in Despairs, Sordidness and viciousness (viz. Idleness and sloth, Smoaking and Drinking)—But he seem’d so much to Desire to remain with me over the Sabbath that I even told him he should be welcome.

1744 September 9 (Sunday). Great Frost last night. On Consideration of the State of Things in the Town I repeated sermon on Ps. 103.19 latter part. Mr. Coollidge and Mr. James Balls wife din’d with us. Mr. Coollidge says he is utterly without Hope.

1744 September 10 (Monday). My forenoon taken up in various necessary Things—fixing a Well—Buckett to the Pole etc. Mr. Coollidge went to Captain Maynards and din’d there, but return’d home. P.M. Spent mostly with him. At Eve I visited Captain Forbush. Thomas Winchester at his Fathers. Mr. Coollidge lodg’d here.

1744 September 11 (Tuesday). Mr. Coollidge went away to Lieutenant Tainters. I walk’d, though not with Mr. Coollidge to Lieutenants and din’d there. At Eve Mr. Coollidge with Lieutenant for Watertown. At Eve Eli Forbush here at my House having wrote the Dealings of God with his soul, he gave it to me. Mr. Cook was here after him and gave account of his Experiences and what he thought to be his Conversion; but when we were upon the most serious Concerns, and without any Sign of Provocation that I know if, except that I made no Difference between persons of our Country or another, he bitterly told me that he had been more abus’d by me, and by my wife and Children than ever he had been abus’d in All his Life, which with other Things I remember he Said to me nigh about those Times which he says he Experienc’d made me fear whether he who brought forth so Contrary Fruits to the Spirit had that glorious Spirit. After I had administered some Reproof and Reason’d with him and told him I Should made a minute of this he left me, and O that God would please to shew him his Errors and forgive them! N.B. Bekky Hicks to Day to Cambridge on my mare. Thomas at his Fathers.

1744 September 12 (Wednesday). Visited Captain Forbush254 but the Doctor being there, and it appearing later than I thought for I did not make any long stay. Brother Samuel Breck was there also with Dr. Gott. Dr. Breck din’d with us. P.M. I rode over to Lieutenant Holloways (favour’d with Neighbour Ebenezer Maynards Horse) to Catechizing. Had 27 Boys and 17 Girls. Lieutenant Holloway255 gone to Brookfield. Call’d at Mr. Tim Fays after the Exercises. Rainy return home at Thomas at his Fathers Still.

1744 September 13 (Thursday). Captain Forbush grows worse. Sent for me. I went immediately—found him very low. I dealt very plainly and as thorowly as I could with him. O that I had Sooner and Continually, both with him and all others!

1744 September 14 (Friday). Visited Captain Forbush. Find him with but little hopes respecting his Spiritual State—but begging the Mercy of God. We could make no New Cyder. Neighbour Pratt256 kindly offer’d to Send me a Barrell and did so.

1744 September 15 (Saturday). Unusual Great Frosts from Night to Night.

1744 September 16 (Sunday). Matt. 16.26. Repeat’d sermon on Rev. 20.12 from 2 Cor. 5.10. O that the Lord would make His Sabbaths Days of true Spiritual Rest and Joy to my Soul!

1744 September 17 (Monday). Thomas Clearing. Mrs. Patty Ward257 (Colonel Nahums Daughter) here. She and Molly rode to Marlborough. P.M. I visited old Mrs. Goodenow who lay very Sick. She gave me an Excellent Testimony of the Grace of God in her and the Evidences of a regular and thorow work from her early Age; of which may God have the Glory! And may we all pattern after her! Her children also testify that this had been the Substance of her Conversation among them all along through her Life. N.B. I hear that David Crosby and 5 others break Jayl.

1744 September 18 (Tuesday). Thomas thrash’d rye. Samuel Baker here to be examin’d a.m. I visited Mr. Gibson of Hopkinton who lyes very bad, and Mr. Barrett gone to Boston to his Brother Mr. Thornton Barretts Funeral. In my way I was at Mr. Bowmans.258 Dr. Crawford return’d with me. N.B. Mrs. Thankfull Maynard here to be Examin’d. Molly return’d from Marlborough.

1744 September 19 (Wednesday). Rode up to Worcester. Mr. Welds Case against Rachel Wheeler was try’d at Superior Court; but only as to the Libel, and did not go into the proof of the Facts—and was committed to a Jury—but they could not agree. So that it was put off to another Year. I din’d at Colonel Chandlers.259 P.M. I was at Mr. Eatons, where were Mr. Hall and Mr. Prentice and their Wives. In the Eve I was at Mr. John Chandlers, where was Mr. Johonnot260 of Boston. While I was there a Messenger with Candle and Lanthorn to have me lodge at Colonel Chandlers, where were Several of the Judges—which I embrac’d.

1744 September 20 (Thursday). The Trial of Edward Fitz Patrick, for Murthering Daniel Campbel of Rutland in March last. Mr. Campbel of Oxford pray’d at the opening the Court. The Trial began at 11 a.m. and lasted till 4 or 5 p.m. The ministers din’d with the Court at Captain Haywards. At Eve the Jury brought in their Verdict, Guilty. After Spending some Time in the Eve at Colonel Chandlers with the Judges etc., Mr. Campbell and I were Conducted by Mr. Sheriff Curtis to the high sheriffs, Captain Flaggs,261 where we lodg’d. Thomas at Worcester to Day.

1744 September 21 (Friday). We understand that the Prisoner took on much last Night when he had his Irons put on again. Mr. Campbell and I visited him before his Sentence. I receiv’d the Judges Request to pray with the Court. Judge Dudley262 pronounc’d the sentence of Death upon him.263 He Confess’d that what the Justice (Chandler) and the Minister (Mr. Burr) had Said (namely of his Confession in the Jayl at his first Committment) was true, though he Stood to it that the Rutland men testify’d was, Two words to one, wrong. Din’d at Colonel Chandlers, and returned home. Returning home heard that old Mrs. Goodenow was Dead, and this Day to be bury’d. Mr. Cushing was gone to the Funeral. I also hastened, waited at Ensign Rice’s, and went to the Grave as the Corps pass’d to it. May God Sanctifie this Breach upon us!

1744 September 22 (Saturday). Mr. Gibson of Hopkinton I hear is Dead. I rode to Shrewsbury and Mr. Cushing to Westborough. N.B. Major Keys acquaints me that the Flagg of Truce from Cape Breton is detain’d by the Governour and that we are short of Ammunition.

1744 September 23 (Sunday). I preach’d at Shrewsbury on Rom. 8.7. Mr. Cushing at Westborough on Rom. 6.23 and on Ps. 76.7. I return’d home at Eve, as did Mr. Cushing also.

1744 September 24 (Monday). Visited Mr. Thurston a.m. and found him very bad. Mr. Gamel p.m. who is very ill likewise.

1744 September 25 (Tuesday). Visited old Mr. Samuel Fay. Was at Mr. Grouts and Winchesters. P.M. Catechized young Women. Exercise on Ps. 25.7.

1744 September 26 (Wednesday). Sent for to visit Mr. Thurston again who grows worse, and is very Delirious. Yet it was Evident his soul was much engag’d in deep self Abasements. Cry’d out Ashes and Muck—rottenness etc.

1744 September 27 (Thursday). Thomas made Cyder yesterday and to Day.

1744 September 28 (Friday). Thomas fetch’d 3 Barrells of Cyder from Mr. Grout and one from Mr. Miller. P.M. gathering Corn. Mr. Patteshall here in his way to Sutton. He lodg’d here.

1744 September 29 (Saturday). Old Mr. Thurston came and acquaint’d Me that his son Joseph dy’d last night.

1744 September 30 (Sunday). On 2 Cor. 5.10. Repeated several parts of Sermon on Rev. 20.12. Old Mr. Thurston din’d with me. N.B. Mrs. Beeman sick and pray’d for.

1744 October 1 (Monday). The Funeral of Mr. Joseph Thurston, a man well spoken of for his Seriousness and Graciousness. He leaves a Widow and six Children among us. Help Lord! the Godly man ceaseth etc. Deacon Whipple of Ipswich Hamlet here. At Eve Mr. Patteshall again; Mr. Turell and Two Messengers going to the Council at Grafton, viz. Captain Brooks and Mr. Tufts264—and they all 4 lodged here. Nei[gh]bours Young Men came and Husk’d.

1744 October 2 (Tuesday). A.M. Mr. Emmerson of Malden and his Messengers, viz. Mr. Brainerd and Mr. Shute.265 They all left us before Dinner and Mr. Patteshall rode with me to Mr. Beemans—and thence he went for Marlborough. The Judges Saltonstall266 and Sewall267 din’d with me. Mr. Zebulon Rice lay’d the Floor of my new Study.

1744 October 3 (Wednesday). I rode to Grafton Council (as an Auditor). Thomas Winchester at Grafton. Mr. Patteshall came into Captain Fays while I was there and was my Company up. We were at the Forenoon public Hearing but not at the Reading over Articles of Complaint. They heard but 11 of 23 Articles to Day and in the Evening. I lodg’d at Captain Willards.268

1744 October 4 (Thursday). I rode to Worcester and din’d with Mr. Burr, where also din’d Captain Flagg. Mr. Burr asked Me to Change with him next Sabbath, but I freely told him it would Stir up great uneasiness among my people. He ask’d me to Preach the Execution sermon but I was oblig’d to deny him because of my design’d Journey to Boston. I visited the Prisoner, found him in a bad frame—dwelling upon his deplorable Condition but taking no Care to help himself, nor suitably betaking himself to God for Help. Unforgiving, Sour, very Sparing of Speech—not Confessing his Sin—refusing to say anything about it, but that We might think as we would—reflecting on his Trial. But I most solemnly Call’d him to Repentence and Confession, reprov’d, Charg’d him, pray’d with him and left him. Justice Brigham my Company to Grafton and to Westborough. Thomas at his Fathers.

1744 October 5 (Friday). George Reed came with a Message from Grafton from Drury and Hardy to go up. I rode up and p.m. the Council took under Consideration the aggrieved Brethrens Complaint of Reverend Mr. Prentice’s Disgust at my sermon on their Fast in September 1743, and I was Desir’d to produce my Notes. At their request I read the disquieting Prayer—and after a Short Debate withdrew. At Eve Mr. Hall preach’d a Lecture (while the Council were in their Debates in private) on Job 22.21, a very savoury and usefull sermon. The Lord graciously bless it to my Spiritual Profit! Return’d home Mr. James Fay and wife being in Company.

1744 October 6 (Saturday). The good and Learned Moderator of the Council, Reverend Mr. Wigglesworth came to me with Mr. Francis Whipple who waited on him—to preach for me tomorrow.

1744 October 7 (Sunday). Mr. Wigglesworth a.m. on Jer. 8.20. The Very Text and the Very Day on which I purpos’d myself to preach, that I might follow my summer sermons with the most solemn and awakening Warnings. But the Lord in his Providence has order’d wisest and best, that these should be dispers’d [dispens’d?] by So Superiour a messenger. P.M. on Mat. 11.12. O that God would follow both sermons with an efficacious Blessing!

1744 October 8 (Monday). Mr. Wigglesworth return’d to the Council. Training Day, but I was overlook’d, and it suited me very well, not to be disturb’d, being in my Preparations for my Journey. Ebenezer went to Grafton and brought Madam Sartels Chaise. Mr. Millen269 from Chauxit here, with his Call to settle there. Mr. Matthias Rice kindly lent me £50 old Tenor, for which I gave him a Bond.

1744 October 9 (Tuesday). My Wife and I with our little son William rode to Sudbury in Madam Sartels Chaise. We got down about 12. It was the Time of the Ministers Meeting at Mr. Cooks.270 While dinner was preparing I borrow’d Mr. Lorings Horse and rode to Mr. Farrars271 at Concord and paid him £50 old Tenor and return’d to Ministers Meeting. I read (for my Concio) the former part of my sermon on Heb. 13.17.

1744 October 10 (Wednesday). We rode to Mr. Foxcrofts272 and my Deeds from Mr. Lull were enter’d to be recorded. Proceeded to Boston. My aged Mother much more Comfortable than for a long Time. Blessed be God. We din’d with her. N.B. The Sorrowful Shocking News by Brother Samuel of Cousen Elias’s273 Fall into uncleanness with Mrs. Sally Hill. The Lord Sanctifie this sore Trial for our deep humbling! P.M. I was at Dr. Sewals. We lodg’d at Brother Samuels.

1744 October 11 (Thursday). Mr. Byles Lecture on Tit. 2.13, middle Sentence. Din’d at Brother Alexanders. P.M. at Mrs. Bennetts, where was Mr. Mather.274 At Eve at Mr. Webbs275 and at Mr. Eliots276—in these last visits, upon poor Parkmans Case. Lodg’d again at Brother Samuels.

1744 October 12 (Friday). We purpos’d to have gone to Cambridge but the rainy Weather prevented. I attempted to go over the Ferry, but the Rain increasing I prevail’d with the Ferryman to sett me ashore, as also Colonel Minot of Concord.277 He walk’d up with me and broke fast at Brother Samuels. At Secretary Willards.278 P.M. at Mr. Gee’s.279 So rainy that I concluded to stay over the Sabbath and engag’d to preach for Mr. Gee. At Eve waited on Mr. Wilsteads280 Lecture. On Mat. 16.26. Lodg’d at Sister Bettys. N.B. Mr. John Jarvis dy’d nigh a month agoe.

1744 October 13 (Saturday). The Morning was So bright (tho windy) that I hasten’d to Mr. Gees to dissolve the above Obligation of preaching for him and tripp’d to Cambridge to my Horse (our Chaise having been left at Charlestown) and endeavour’d to Come up to my own Flock; but by loosing one pair of Gold Buttons out of my Sleave, and other Impediments I made it sundown before I got to David Hows281—and was much Chill’d with the Cold of the Night. Stopp’d at Mr. Smiths of Marlborough and lodged there.

1744 October 14 (Sunday). Lords Day Morning, rose early and was more Comfortable. Rode up Home and preach’d all Day, repeating (with alterations and additions) Sermon on Mat. 26.41. This I was prevail’d with to do though I had preach’d ‘em once or Twice before, because they were so seasonable after Grafton Council—and suitable for us likewise seeing Such a Trying Time is before us, next week, when the General Courts Report on our Northside People’s Petition is propos’d to be made. A Thin Congregation many having thought I would not return from Boston so soon.

1744 October 15 (Monday). Rode to Cambridge, partly in Company with Mr. Smith of Marlborough. We din’d at Mr. Woolsons at Weston. No Buttons found. I set up Notifications. So Early at Cambridge that I walk’d from thence to Boston, in Company with one Mr. Shaw shingler, of Boston South end. Lodg’d at Brother Samuels.

1744 October 16 (Tuesday). Din’d at Brother Parkman’s. Our Conversations turn very much upon the Melancholly and afflicted Circumstances of my poor, Miserable Kinsman. But as to the Affair of Westborough Petitioners, there is little room for me to Say any Thing because our People are grown so jealous that there is my Design in being at Boston so much at this Time, viz. that I may undermine them282 etc.—whereas this journey was appointed on Occasion of the Ministers Meeting at Mr. Cooks. At Eve was at Mr. Eliots Lecture on Jam. 5.16, latter part. N.B. Mr. Buel,283 Mr. Pomeroy,284 and Mr. Parsons,285 of Connecticut at meeting. I was at Mr. Eliots after Lecture. N.B. Mr. Whitefield expected at Portsmouth, Piscataqua. We lodg’d at my aged Mothers.

1744 October 17 (Wednesday). Din’d at Alexanders. Refus’d to apply to any Gentlemen of the Court about our Westborough Affair. Saw divers of the Committees on both Sides. Lieutenant Holloway very hot. We rode to Cambridge. Our Mare in the Chaise got away from Sister Barretts and ran over to Father Champneys. Broke one of the Thills and clear’d herself of her Tackling. But I found her again, and Deacon Whittemore286 Sent over my wife and son in his Chaise to prevent further trouble.

1744 October 18 (Thursday). Rainy. John and Samuel Hicks helpfull to get over my broken Chaise to Mr. Edward Mannings to be mended. Din’d at Mr. Whittemore. P.M. Mr. Manning and Mr. Moss (the Smith) prepar’d and fitted every Thing for the mended Shaft to be put on again. And in the Eve I visited Mr. Goff, Mr. Appleton287 and Dr. Wigglesworth,288 and supp’d with the Doctor before I return’d to Father Champneys.

1744 October 19 (Friday). So rainy that we were confin’d at Father Champneys all Day.

1744 October 20 (Saturday). Though the weather was thick and Sometimes Misty, yet being Saturday we Set out upon our Journey. Were at Baldwins by Twelve, at Hows before 2 p.m. Din’d at Mr. Darlings, and got home by Day Light, in Safety. The praise to God, who has protected both us and our Family in our Absence.

1744 October 21 (Sunday). I preach’d on Heb. 10.22, being mainly from what I had deliver’d in Time past though with much alteration and addition. Eli Forbush289 and Mrs. Thankfull Maynard290 here before meeting with their Relations. P.M. they were admitted before the Communion. Preach’d p.m. on Mat. 16.26. I beg it mayn’t be without Effect!

1744 October 22 (Monday). Had the Chaise to mend at Mr. Williams Shop before it was carry’d home. Ebenezer went up with it to Grafton. N.B. Captain Baker at Mr. Williams Shop. Hear that the Petition of the North side was last week granted by the General Court. N.B. Captain Baker and I a great Deal of Talk of the Manner of my first Settlement in Westborough. Thomas Winchester work’d for Mr. Samuel Fay, junior. I visited Captain Forbush who is very weak yet.

1744 October 23 (Tuesday). At Mr. Beemans in the Morning. Catechiz’d a. and p.m. N.B. Mrs. Kelley present at the Catechizing. N.B. Mr. Cornelius Cook here and as violent as ever. Thomas Winchester carting out Dung from the Cow Yard.

1744 October 24 (Wednesday). Thomas Winchester carting Dung and clear’d up Rye. I preach’d at Southborough on John 1.11. Few at Meeting. When I return’d home Thomas was gone, and now changes his Home.

1744 October 25 (Thursday). Mr. Smith having desir’d me to preach for him, but not hearing any Thing from him Since he went to Cape Ann, I rode as far as Mr. Matthias Rice’s with whom I had some Business, that I might be more certain—but could not find from them or from there Nei[gh]bours that any Lecture was appointed—so that I return’d home.

1744 October 26 (Friday). I preach’d at Mr. James Fays on Eph. 1.4, and hope that through the Grace of God there was Some good Effect. Wish it may have Suitable Impression upon my own Heart. A number of hearers immediately requested me to print the Sermon. N.B Captain John Tainter of Watertown there, with his Wife.

1744 October 27 (Saturday). Many Reflections on God’s wonderful Patience towards me and his people in this Place.

1744 October 28 (Sunday). The Lord’s name be prais’d and magnify’d for his adorable Patience and Longsuffering towards Me and towards the Dear Flock in this place, that now we see the 20th Year Completed since our Founding and Ordination. Alas! My Barrenness and unprofitableness! How little good have I done in all these years, and how many Things are amiss also among the people! O that God would Pardon us through the Greatness of his Mercy! And Grant us his almighty Grace, to enable us to Repeat, and bring forth the Fruits meet for Repentence. I preach’d a.m. on Gen. 31.38 and p.m. on 2 Cor. 13.9, Repeating part of Sermon on Heb. 13.20.21.291 Captain John Tainter and his wife, with Lieutenants Wife also din’d with us. O that God would make it the Day of his power with us!

1744 October 29 (Monday). Mr. Weld of Upton here. He Still thinks himself under grievous Oppression. Want another Copy of our late Result, which I transcrib’d for him and let him have Copys of Several papers. He din’d here, and p.m. being somewhat rainy he lodg’d here also. In the Eve Captain Maynard here, and John Oake in order to owning the Covenant. A.M. visited Mr. Jonathan Forbush’s Sick Child.

1744 October 30 (Tuesday). A.M. Mr. Weld left us. P.M. came Mr. Peabody,292 accompany’d by Deacon Felch293 and Chickery, on their Journey to Worcester Council. O what Cause of Grief and Mourning that God has permitted So many unhappy Divisions and Contentions to arise among us! May God Sanctifie these Evils and hasten them to an End! New Perplexitys also arise respecting the Affairs of Upton. The Moderator at the Request of Sundry of the Upton Brethren has issued out Letters for the Council to meet the first Tuesday of November, but it falls out to be the week of West-Leicester Ordination at which Mr. Hall, Prentice and Goddard294 are to officiate. So that it was concluded by the people at Upton that there must be another appointment which the Moderator refuses to make, but abides by his old Appointment, and requests me to Certifie Mr. Weld that he does; nor can attend at any other Time, unless it be adjourn’d to Spring. My Catechetical Exercise with young women could not be attended till it was too late for the Sermon, but the other parts of it were accomplished.

1744 October 31 (Wednesday). I went to Mr. Whipples295 and Deacon Newtons296 upon the Upton Business. Wrote to Reverend Mr. Weld and to Ensign Jonathan Wood.297 N.B. Serjeant Miller undertook to Convey the Letters to Mr. Jonas Warrins298 of Upton. Raw Cold season. Snow’d some part of the Day. Daniel How299 work’d for me, Ploughing up Stubble of the lower Field.

1744 November 1 (Thursday). Mr. John Sparhawk,300 Schoolmaster at Shrewsbury, here to see me. Lieutenant Tainter at Evening.

1744 November 2 (Friday). Mrs. Martha Warrin here to be examin’d again in order to her joining with the Church. At Evening came Captain Trowbridge301 and Mr. Isaac Williams302 (Delegates from Newtown Church), came from Worcester Council, who have adjourn’d to last Tuesday of this Month. Captain Trowbridge lodged here, Mr. Williams at his Brothers.

1744 November 3 (Saturday). Captain Trowbridge left us. Benjamin Forbush303 plough’d Stubble. Mr. Jonathan Forbush’s Daughter304 of about 3 Years old, bury’d a.m. I return’d in Haste to my House to meet with Mr. Peabody who was coming from Worcester. He was entering my House with his Delegates at the juncture that I return’d. They din’d with me. Mr. Peabody tells me he has receiv’d another Letter from the Brethren at Upton that beseeches him to put by the Council, and he has accordingly gratify’d them. I sent by Mr. Peabody a Line to Mr. Stone to change tomorrow, which he comply’d with and came up at Evening. I also rode to his House the Same Evening.

1744 November 4 (Sunday). Preach’d at Southborough on Rom. 8.7, a. and p.m. N.B. No preacher at Framingham—many of them at Southborough. Captain Goddard and Wife etc. I return’d home at Eve, as did Mr. Stone.

1744 November 5 (Monday). Benjamin Forbush finish’d ploughing my Stubble. P.M. Mr. Cotton305 of Newtown, who preach’d yesterday at North Sutton, came to see me and lodged here.

1744 November 6 (Tuesday). Transcrib’d the Worcester Result and rode with Mr. Cotton to Mr. Ebenezer Chamberlains where we din’d. I spent the Afternoon in visiting that Corner of the Town.

1744 November 7 (Wednesday). We ty’d up our Cattle in the Barn. Grows Cold.

1744 November 8 (Thursday). Mr. Belknap who has been baptiz’d, here with me for 5 Hours.

1744 November 9 (Friday). N.B. My Young Cattle, viz. Three young Heiffers, which Lieutenant Tainter drove up to Cold Spring for summering, in the forepart of the Year, were all missing when the Drovers came in. But Lieutenant undertook a Journey after them on the sixth instant, and this Evening brought in Two of them, the Third as tis judg’d dy’d in the Woods Some time agoe; the Carcase was found but was greatly corrupted etc. Lieutenant has been out 27 Shilling, and there remained 10 shilling for the Herdsman; in all the Charge amounted to 37 shilling. N.B. Thomas Winchester and Ebenezer Maynard kill’d two Shotes for me—the Weight about 100 apiece—the Markit so low we salted them up.

1744 November 10 (Saturday). Cold.

1744 November 11 (Sunday). On Mat. 16.26. O that these Sermons might not be in Vain! My own Soul (I thank God) was somewhat warm’d thereby. I was earnestly desirous that there might be Some success. Mrs. Chamberlain, that lately liv’d near us, was here and din’d with us. P.M. We had a Contribution for Mr. Jedidiah Biglo of Grafton whose House was burnt down October 9. I read the proclamation for the Thanksgiving, and appointed an Assembly next Thursday for Young People.

1744 November 12 (Monday). Mr. Lull was here and inform’d me that Mr. Farrar of Concord would be here to Day. I rode to Mr. Beemans and hir’d £30 of him (old Tenor). Mr. Farrar accordingly came and I paid him the whole of my Bond to him and took it up. Captain Maynard train’d his Company. I pray’d with them both at the Beginning and Concluding their Exercises. Din’d at his House (Mr. Farrar with me). N.B. At Eve Mr. Wheeler very full of bitter Complaints that the Captain kept his Boys So late (and it was by this Time sundown), as also that they were abus’d etc. N.B. The Committee for the School, viz. Lieutenant Holloway, and Messrs. James Bowman and Seth Rice confer with me about Mr. Sharhawk for a Schoolmaster. N.B. Lieutenant Holloway and Mr. Livermore306 request me to preach to the North Side Next Thursday forenoon. My Mind was engag’d upon a Variety of Things, and suffer’d their Urgency to overcome Me, though I presently after regretted it.

1744 November 13 (Tuesday). Rose before Day a great while and Sent Thomme by break of Day with a [blotted] to Lieutenant Holloway and Mr. Livermore to prevent their Notifying the People and to Certifie them that I cannot preach, as propos’d last Night. N.B. Mrs. Chamberlin and her Twin Boys lodg’d here last Night.

1744 November 14 (Wednesday). Mr. Richard Barns307 and Mr. Jonathan Rogers kill’d my old Red Cow which I formerly bought of old Mr. Holloway. P.M. Captain Tyler308 of Mendon and his wife here.

1744 November 15 (Thursday). I had a Lecture to Young People at the Request of the Society in the Middle of the Town. I preach’d on Prov. 14.14, Repeating chiefly my Sermon of Heb. 10.38. At Evening Deacon Forbush309 and his wife here, and some others, Miller, Beriah Rice, Harrington, who had been over to the first Precinct Meeting on the north side here.

1744 November 16 (Friday). Mrs. Thankfull Rice310 here. P.M. Mrs. Townsend (Joshua’s wife) here, much concern’d about her Spiritual State etc. Towards Eve came Deacon Burnap311 and one of his Sons—of whom I enquir’d concerning their great Divisions and Contentions in Hopkinton.

1744 November 18 (Sunday). On Matt. 12.40. Isa. 26.20.21, Repeat’d. Mrs. Grow312 and Thomas Winchester din’d here.

1744 November 19 (Monday). Visited Mr. Benjamin Fays wife who is very ill in her lying in. N.B. Mr. Joseph Woods here with a message from Gideon Rice who lyes in Boston Jayl.

1744 November 20 (Tuesday). [No entry.]

1744 November 21 (Wednesday). [No entry.]

1744 November 22 (Thursday). Thanksgiving. The first Very Cold Day. Preach’d on 1 Sam. 7.12. Old Mr. Green313 with me.

1744 November 23 (Friday). Mrs. Abigail Maynard314 here.

1744 November 24 (Saturday). A.M. Cloudy. P.M. Rain and Something of Snow but not to lie. At Eve came Mr. Cotton of Newton and Mr. Isaac Williams. They acquaint’d me that Captain Trowbridge who was with them in their other Journey to Worcester and lodg’d here, was lately bury’d. O that God would Shew us our End and make us know the Measure of our Days—how frail!

1744 November 25 (Sunday). Mr. Cotton preach’d Two very awakening Sermons. A.M. from Luke 19.14. P.M. on Ps. 119.155. Mrs. Whitney315 in great agitations and Sometimes was heard crying out Oh! Oh! At Evening in my Family service Mr. Cotton on Rom. 8.9. May God give a Special Blessing!

1744 November 26 (Monday). Mr. Cotton to Worcester. P.M. Mr. Peabody and Deacon Felch—but left me, to prosecute their Journey to Worcester.

1744 November 27 (Tuesday). Rain. I had appointed the Young Womens Catechizing but the Weather prevented their coming. Thomas Winchester here and lodg’d here.

1744 November 28 (Wednesday). Thomas consenting to carry a Calf for us to Boston, Neighbour Hezekiah How came and kill’d it, but by Reason of the bad weather Thomas deferr’d his going.

1744 November 29 (Thursday). Preach’d my Lecture myself, on Rom. 16.20 first part. Repeated from Heb. 13.20. Little Sarah greatly Exercis’d with Vomiting and purging. My wife detain’d from Lecture. Thomas to Boston with the Calf.

1744 November 30 (Friday). Brother Samuel Parkman having been at Hopkinton and rais’d his House there, at Eve came here, and lodg’d with us. A Cold Season.

1744 December 1 (Saturday). Brother Samuel return’d to Boston. At Eve Thomas Winchester return’d from there. Mr. Whitefield preaching at Boston. I was rather more afore hand with my preparations for the Sabbath than was Common with me and had somewhat more freeness and Ease of Mind. But yet alas too unprepar’d.

1744 December 2 (Sunday). Sacrament. A pritty Cold Day. A. and p.m. on Mat. 12.41. Deacons Fay316 and Newton din’d here. The Lord follow us with his almighty Influences and make us Stedfast! N.B. My Wife not out to Day by reason of her ague and Sarahs illness.

1744 December 3 (Monday). Mr. Samuel Williams and Mr. Charles Rice kill’d 2 Hoggs between 10 and 11 Score apiece. P.M. pray’d with Captain Maynards Company at their Training, and din’d with the Officers. N.B. Mr. Boynes met me who was Still uneasy about the Affair of the Well. I told him to come to my House and I would Settle with him, though he had been very abusive to me.

1744 December 4 (Tuesday). Deacon Newton, Mr. Whipple and I rode over (in the Cold) to Upton. The Council Sat; but Mr. Goddard317 of Leicester and Captain Clark318 of Medway hinder’d by their illness and could not come. We first of all Enquir’d into the Letter which now brought us together and whether the Church and pastor had Comply’d with our former Result etc. See the Minutes of the Council.

1744 December 5 (Wednesday). Methods improving for Accommodations without going into further hearing. Mr. Hall of Sutton greatly Sensible of Wrong done by the former Result. He endeavours to compose a New Plan, the main of which was afterwards Accepted.

1744 December 6 (Thursday). We accomplish’d the Arduous and Sorrowful Affair of Mr. Welds Separation and Dismission from his people. Mr. Hall went away Home before the Solemn reading of the Result. Mr. Peabody, Bucknam319 and I invited Mr. Weld to our Pulpits and we all offer’d to preach a Lecture to the people at proper seasons. Mr. Peabody and Bucknam to preach tomorrow. Deacon Newton return’d Home in the Night, but Mr. Whipple stay’d to accompany me.

1744 December 7 (Friday). Mr. Peabody (our late Moderator) preached on Isaiah. After Dinner we took Leave. Mr. Bucknam to preach p.m. In my Journey home Mr. Whipple was my Company. We came by Solomon and Elijah Rice’s where we call’d and at Neighbour Eleazers also.

1744 December 8 (Saturday). May the Frowns of Heaven on the Ministry be duely Improv’d by Me! Ebenezers Lessons a great Hindrance to me.

1744 December 9 (Sunday). I preach’d on the Occasion of the Dismission of Mr. Weld, and of Mr. Burr320 the Week before, from Matt. 28.20. And pray it may be follow’d with a Blessing to both myself and the people.

1744 December 10 (Monday). Sixteen came to get me Wood. Solomon Woods with a Team, Mr. Grow, Miller,321 Harrington,322 Daniel, Jonathan, Phinehas and Eli Forbush,323 Beriah Rice, Dunlop, Daniel Warrin, Elijah Warrin, Benjamin Tainter, Jonathan Grout, Jonas Child and Zebulon Rice. The Swamp clear’d. My Team improv’d all Day. N.B. The Committee from the Northside with me, to make me their Offers according to the General Court which erected them into a precinct.324 Neighbour Jedidiah How here in the Evening.

1744 December 11 (Tuesday). Four Persons came to get the rest of the wood which was cut yesterday, to the Door. Mr. Dunlop (who was the Means of the rest), Mr. Jonah Warrin, Mr. Hezekiah Pratt with his Oxen and Sled and Moses Nurse with his Oxen and Sled likewise. They improv’d my Team and got down a good Pile. The Young Women Catechizing. They Said the 3 last Answers. I deliver’d another Discourse on Ps. 25.7, chiefly against Company keeping and Unchastity. At Eve Mr. Peter Bent325 here from Marlborough to talk with me in Mr. Boynes Behalf. Snow’d in the Night.

1744 December 12 (Wednesday). My Wife and I rode to Marlborough. Call’d at Neighbour Matthias Rice’s, where was Mr. Thomas Ward. My wife was blooded by Dr. Gott, and we din’d with him. P.M. at Mr. Smiths326 where was Mr. Edward Barns. N.B. Talk of Boynes’s Conduct. I call’d at divers Places to hire money to pay Mr. Lull and Thomas Winchester but in Vain. We return’d by Matthias’s, and were kindly and handsomely entertained by them.

1744 December 13 (Thursday). Rain. Mr. John Pratt327 of Lambstown relates the great Revival of Religion among them in that Town. He desires a Dismission for himself and wife from our Church.

1744 December 14 (Friday). Mr. Beeman and Mr. Bowman, Captain Warrin and Captain Maynard here p.m. at Evening.

1744 December 15 (Saturday). At the Funeral of Mr. James Maynards Daughter Olive, who dy’d the Night before last, having been ill but a Day or Two, but I hasten’d home without going to the Grave. She was nigh 11 Years old.

1744 December 16 (Sunday). On Mat. 12.42. Deacon Fay and Mr. Solomon Woods’s wife din’d here. P.M. Repeated on Ps. 146.4.

1744 December 17 (Monday). Dr. Gott here. Mr. John Mead at Evening.

1744 December 18 (Tuesday). Mr. Mead and Mr. Jeduthan Fay din’d here.

1744 December 19 (Wednesday). [No entry.]

1744 December 20 (Thursday). Visited Mr. Samuel Fay junior’s Wife who lies in a very low Condition—has not been at public worship these 16 months. At Eve Mrs. Baker (wife of Captain) here to be examin’d in order to joining with the Church. Mr. Jenison came from Lunenberg with his Cloths etc., in order to his keeping School in this Town again, but was now immediately going to Watertown first; he lodg’d here. One of my Oxen ill. Captain Maynard very kind and Friendly according to his Wont in my Difficultys. He blooded the Ox.

1744 December 21 (Friday). My Ox very ill—a Fever—bound up. Captain Maynard here administering to him. Lieutenant Tainter here. He rak’d the Ox. At Eve he was somewhat better. Mr. Jonas Warrin here from Upton. Sent word by him that Next Wednesday come sennight (by Divine Leave) I would preach at Upton. N.B. I had told Captain Hazzleton328 the like a few Days agoe.

1744 December 22 (Saturday). Great Snow Storm last night and to Day. N.B. Mr. Samuel Mower329 of Worcester here to desire me in the Name of the Committee, to preach tomorrow come sennight at Worcester, Mr. Cushing being to preach tomorrow. My Ox better. Captain Maynard here (in his kindness) to See him.

1744 December 23 (Sunday). On Mat. 12.43.44.45. P.M. Repeat’d Sermon on Heb. 13.21, from 2 Cor. 13.9. Thin Congregation but 2 or 3 Men from the Northside—bad Travelling.

1744 December 24 (Monday). At Mr. Cornelius Cooks and at Lieutenant Thomas Forbush’s330 a.m. P.M. I rode to Mr. Lulls and he Sign’d me another Deed of the 70 acre Lot in Townsend. Ensign Josiah Rice rode down with me and was one of the Witnesses. Mr. Thomas Billings the other.

1744 December 25 (Tuesday). [No entry.]

1744 December 26 (Wednesday). The Rain abated and the Shining Sun about 11 a.m. induc’d me to ride to Marlborough to preach Mr. Smiths Lecture. Bad travelling and Clouds and rain return’d—but I had reason to think that he depended upon me. But when I through all my Difficultys got there he told me he had not appointed it. It was Such bad weather that he had not appointed the Sacrament. Neither did he expect me to come—Whereas he ought to have Sent me Word that he had put the Exercises aforesaid by—and as to my Coming he could not know that it would not be good Weather by that Time. This is the Second Time of Disappointment about his Lecture of Late. I din’d with him, and then rode to Mr. John Stows on the Business of Thomas Winchester. At Dr. Gotts at Eve but lodg’d at Mr. Smiths.

1744 December 27 (Thursday). I return’d home by Neighbour Matthias Rice’s. Mr. Benjamin Burnap there. Hopkinton Troubles continue nor prospect of Issue. P.M. Lecture to the Ladds, on Hos. 11.7. Repeat’d chiefly my Sermon on Heb. 10.38. Brother Hicks here. He brought me a packet from Reverend Mr. Hall containing the Christian History No. 74331 with Marginal Defence which he wrote at my Motion made to him when we were at Upton Council. Brother lodg’d here.

1744 December 28 (Friday). Mr. Thomas Rice332 of Worcester (one of the Committee to Supply their Pulpit) here in his return from Southborough, having been to Mr. Stone333 to prevail with him to go to Worcester next Sabbath come Sennight. (N.B. Mr. Rice was my Company up to Worcester and over to Sutton when I first preach’d there Twenty Years agoe.) He din’d with Me. My son Thomas rode down to Mr. Bristons for our Cloth but in Vain. Neighbour Jedidiah How was so kind as to bring Me a Load of Pitch Pine.

1744 December 29 (Saturday). I rode up to Worcester, calling at Mr. Cushings. One Brown from Reading, going to work at Mr. Eatons,334 my Company. Meet Captain Maynard coming out of Worcester just at or presently after sunsetting. I was directed to go to Colonel Chandlers, and accordingly there I was handsomely receiv’d by his Spouse, but She was in No Small anxiety about her Husband, who came not till 10 o’Clock but then the face of Care was chang’d to Joy.

1744 December 30 (Sunday). Mr. Brown335 of Chauxit (as I afterward heard) preach’d at Westborough whilst I Preach’d at Worcester. A.M. on 2 Thes. 3.1. P.M. on Ps. 122 latter End. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem etc. I din’d at the Colonel’s who vouchsaf’d to go to meeting p.m. though he loung’d at Home and his wife with him a.m. and am Sorry that I did not exert myself in Reproving them for their Sloth and Negligence. At Eve I was a while at the Colonels, and there came Justice Lee and others—but I retir’d to Dr. Brecks whom I had not visited since he brought his Wife to that Town and I lodg’d there.

1744 December 31 (Monday). In the Morning I Sent a Messenger to Mr. Burrs to see if he was at home Who return’d that he was not in Town. In my return home Mr. John Chandler was my Company as far as Eager’s. We met Dr. Smith, his wife and others going to Worcester upon an action of the Doctor’s against the wife of Mr. Caleb Johnson for Depriving him of a Note given to the Doctor by her Husband. N.B. My Off Ox ill again. But through the tender Mercy of God My Wife, Children etc. enjoy much Comfort and Health hitherto of the Winter. I desire to mark it with hearty Thanks for it. Thus has pass’d another Year of God’s Longsuffering! N.B. Mr. William Jenison began to keep School at Captain Maynards and Eli Forbush came to board at my House.