Diary of Ebenezer Parkman, 1746
1746 January 1 (Wednesday). What Shall we render to the Lord for all his Benefits towards us! As high as the Heavens are above the Earth So great is his Graciousness to Me and Mine: In special through the Course of the Year past. The last night a Very Sharp Cold as most we have felt. The Power and Greatness of God are manifest by this Work of his. I retir’d from Incumbrance. I review’d my Old Journals—in particular those of my 16, 17, 18 Year. I find them of much Use to me as they display my egregious folly and Vanity, and fill me with Shame and Grief. The Lord, of his infinite Mercy Pardon Me through the Blood of the Great Sacrifice! O what a Price had I in my Hand to get Wisdom—but how little Heart to improve it! At Eve Captain Maynard and Mr. William Pierce here. Nothing Singular, but the Cold.
1746 January 2 (Thursday). Continued my Review of my old Journals, for my deep Abasement and Sorrow before God. Lord, remember not against me the sins of my Youth and my Transgressions. After thy Mercy remember me, for they Graciousness sake, O Lord!
1746 January 3 (Friday). Thomas Winchester and Ebenezer gett out Flax. More moderate weather.
1746 January 4 (Saturday). Thomas and Ebenezer thrash’d Rye. Ebenezer was hurt on his Eye and Cheek Bone by the breaking of Thomas’s Swingill, or beating his own against him. Little Suse begins to go alone. Weather Pleasant.
1746 January 5 (Sunday). On Heb. 9.27, former part. May God be pleas’d to add his Special Blessing, that this Serious Subject may suitably affect both me and the people!
1746 January 6 (Monday). Mr. Martyn came to see me; din’d with me and spent the Afternoon. Tells me has not determin’d what he shall do with regard to our North Side, purposes to Visit the disaffected, and particularly Mr. Wheeler,1 that he may know the better what to do. N.B. Lieutenant Thomas Forbush and Mr. Simon Goddard of Shrewsbury here.
1746 January 7 (Tuesday). Sent a Letter by Ebenezer Maynard to Messrs. Rogers and Fowle for December Magazine, and to let them know that I would have them Sent no longer. Another Letter by the Same Hand for my Portmantle at Cousin Proctors, in which I expect Cloth for a great Coat, provided for me, by Brother Alexander. Sent 5 Musk Squash Skins to Mr. Eaton, Hatter at Boston, by Noah How. Thomas Winchester breaking Flax and Ebenezer Shingles. Moderate and bright, but Exceeding high winds, p.m.
1746 January 8 (Wednesday). Mr. Hall of Sutton preach’d a Lecture to Young People on 1 K. 18.12. Several from other Towns at Meeting. After Meeting Ward2 (Colonel Nahums son) from College with his Two sisters, viz. Mrs. Eager and Mrs. Patty Ward, here. Mr. Hall went home. Mr. Benjamin Burnap and Mr. James Fay spent the Eve here. N.B. Mr. Fay has not been at our Meeting for a number of sabbaths (I think 3) but that I might have no Jarr at this Time I Said Nothing to him about it. Thomas Winchester thrash’d a.m. Bright though Somewhat Cold.
1746 January 9 (Thursday). I read various Things—Dickinsons Letters—Magazine—Tillotson—Hopkins3—Richard Taylor4 on Eph. 2.8. Thomas Thrashing. Receiv’d a Blue Great Coat from Brother Alexander at Boston per Ebenezer Maynard. Stormy. Snow—Rain.
1746 January 10 (Friday). Thomas Thrashing Rye Still. Ebenezer daily with him. Thomas and I reckon’d up the Loss Time which he had agreed to make up, and there is due to me (on that Account) 26 this Evening. That is, 6 more of these Winter Days. Exceeding Cold Night.
1746 January 11 (Saturday). Thomas and Ebenezer dressing Flax. Pleasant but Cold Day. Lieutenant Tainter here—he brought the Journal which contains Father Patrick Graham, Almoner and Confessor to the Young Pretender, his Letter to Father Benedict York, giving an account of their proceedings, successes and Designs.
1746 January 12 (Sunday). Pleasant. A.M. on John 17.15. Repeating from page 15 to 19 of Sermon on Jer. 2.19. P.M. on Eph. 2.8. My Wife not well—could Scarce tarry at Meeting during the forenoon Exercise, but was not able to go to Meeting at all p.m. At Eve Very much of a Fever.
1746 January 13 (Monday). My Wife somewhat better a.m. (having been sweated the Night before). I rode to Mr. Jesse Rice’s at Marlborough to talk with him about the Bond which I gave his Father (now deceas’d) for £50 Old Tenor. Borrow’d of him Fenner on Conscience.5 At my Return home found my Wife was grown Very ill again, the Fever strong upon her. Mrs. Maynard here and took Suse down to their House, her daughter in law being able to suckle. N.B. Mr. Brown6 of Cambridge (young Preacher) from Worcester here whilst I was gone to Marlborough, as was also Mr. Millen7 of Chauxit. They inform that Mr. Morse8 of North Shrewsbury carry’d home his wife last Tuesday. N.B. At Eve came Esquire Williams of Stockbridge and Mr. Lydius of Albany and lodg’d here. And Captain Ephraim Williams junior and his Brother Thomas at Captain Maynards. Sent for the Latter to Visit my wife, who accordingly came. He thinks She is going to have the long Fever. The forenam’d Gentlemen are going to Boston to promote an Expedition against Crown Point.
1746 January 14 (Tuesday). Our Company prosecuted their Journey to Boston. Sent Thome to Dr. Gotts and Mr. Britons.9 Dr. Gott came, but my Wife was better. Thanks to God! Neighbour Samuel Hardy came late a.m. to Swingle Flax. P.M. he join’d with a Number that were here to get me some Wood, for Lieutenant Tainter and Neighbour Samuel Harrington were here yesterday while I was absent, and rigg’d up my Sled, and they Two, with Neighbour Hezekiah Pratt (who brought a Team of Oxen), Beriah Rice, and Eleazer Rice, came and got me a Pile of Wood. N.B. Neighbour Sam Hardy join’d them. P.M. At Eve we sent for Suse home from Captain Maynards.
1746 January 15 (Wednesday). Rode to Neighbour Cooks on purpose to talk with him, but I found Neighbours Josselin10 and Belknap there, for which Reason I proceeded further to visit the South East Corner. N.B. Mr. Belknap walk’d with me and we had Some Conversation about Mr. Cook. He told me Mr. Cook had desir’d him some Time ago to go up with him to my House. I pray’d him to meet me towards Eve at Mr. Cooks—he consented. He told me likewise that he himself had been admitted into the Southborough Church. I went to Mr. Bradish’s and pray’d him to meet me at Mr. Cooks by and by (he being also a Man that I knew Mr. Cook would ken to). Visited Mr. Jonathan Bellows Family; he was not at Home. I din’d at Mr. Chamberlains. At Parting he told me that Mr. Cook had heretofore desir’d him to go up with him to discourse with me, and upon that I told him I Should be glad to see him at Neighbour Cooks this Very Evening. Visited Neighbours Ithamar Bellows and Family and Josselin’s. Afterward I return’d to Mr. Cooks, found the Three Men aforesaid there. I acquaint’d them with my Conduct towards Neighbour Cook in my proceedings with him; and intimated what his had been towards Me. He also made his Replys; in his own boisterous and coarse manner, and the Brethren mediated and endeavour’d to bring him to a right Understanding and Submission; but (whilst I was there) in Vain. I lamented my unsuccessfullness in my Attempts: and at Parting offer’d him my Hand in Token of my readiness to be reconcil’d if he would Comply; but ineffectually. When I was mounted on my Horse to return home, he came out and seem’d to express his desire of Forgiveness; and thereupon—giving him my Hand told him I was willing if he acknowledg’d, and was Sorry for his undutifull Conduct towards me in Time past, and would Carry it (by the Help of Grace) in a Suitable Manner becoming his Relation to me, for the future. This he seem’d once to Consent to, but afterwards drew back from it; and Seem’d to expect an acknowledgment from Me also with regard to my Carriage towards him—which I could see no ground for; and ask’d whether it could be expected when I admonish’d those under my Pastoral Care whom I found defective, if it came Close to them and they should frett at it if it was no more than was necessary for them, and my own indispensible Duty? I left him with the Brethren, hoping that if he was truely Sensible, and reform’d I Should know it; but any thing that was only Sudden and Strain, would (I conceiv’d) not last long. N.B. his unaccountable ways of Softening his Several harsh allegations against me, and heavy Complaints of me from Time to Time. Exceeding great his Explanation of his Saying “I had abus’d him more than any Man in the world—why,” he said, “one word from me, from Mr. Parkman was worse than any body else could Speak.” Again, when he told me that a main Thing he had against me was “That I was an Enemy of the Work of God.” This he said he meant thus, that we all had naturally an Enmity against God and his work: and the minister being at Variance one with another was a great Hindrance and discouragement, and that I had taken Such ways and methods as he could not judge were so prudent and fit to promote the Work of the late Times: and he likewise endeavor’d to enervate and interpret away his Strange Message by Noah How to me, “that he felt So towards me and Sometimes that he could Bite Me.” Nothing being effected, nor much prospect of it, and my wife being ill at Home, I came home.
1746 January 16 (Thursday). My Wife took Physic, though unsuitable Wett Weather. At Eve Jonas Brigham was marry’d to Persis Baker. Have read out Fullers Church History of Britain.11
1746 January 17 (Friday). My Wife continues ill, her Physic does not cease Working.
1746 January 18 (Saturday). I thought to have writ Something respecting our Controversie with the Church of Rome, and reasons against the Pretender—but my incumbrances etc.
1746 January 19 (Sunday). Lieutenant Tainter came and inform’d Me that Sister Esther, my Brother Alexanders Wife dy’d on the 12th at Night, and was bury’d on Wednesday following. The Lord sanctifye his holy Hand to us all, but especially to my poor Brother and his only Child as they need Special Grace at Such a Time! A.M. on Eph. 2.8. P.M. on Ps. 90.1, because of the Troubles in England. My wife somewhat Better. Mrs. Kimball of Hopkinton din’d with us.
1746 January 20 (Monday). Thomme to Mr. Barretts for Dr. Edwards Exposition on the Commandments.12 Old Mr. Maynard here and wants I Should write his will over again a Third Time, which displeas’d me. Neighbour David Maynard junior, John Rogers, and Richard Barns kill’d Two Hoggs for me—one weigh’d 242. The other 224 when they were warm.
1746 January 21 (Tuesday). Very moderate weather. My wife not well yet, by reason of a Blister on her ankle, which does not heal up, but makes her very Lame. Captain Maynard at Evening.
1746 January 22 (Wednesday). Pleasant. Wrote to my Brother Alexander by Captain Maynard. Mr. Stratton13 of Waltham here: He and his son Harrington din’d with me.
1746 January 23 (Thursday). Sebastian Smith (the Spaniard) din’d here. Mr. John Garfield14 came to acquaint me with the Death of one of the Twin Children of Mr. Daniel Warrin of Shrewsbury. At Eve Mr. Bowker here, likewise Mr. Aaron Hardy of Grafton. N.B. Reckon’d with Thomas Winchester and paid him all—and £4 old Tenor of Interest for his forbearance.
1746 January 24 (Friday). At the Funeral of Mr. Daniel Warrins Child.
1746 January 25 (Saturday). Smart Storm—Snow, Wind, Rain, Hail, Thunder and Lightning. Captain Maynard here.
1746 January 26 (Sunday). On Ps. 68.1. On Occasion of the Rebellion in Scotland. Mr. Stratton of Waltham and Granny Forbush15 din’d here. May we all be Convinc’d what Enemies of God We naturally are and may we obtain the renewing Grace of God that we may throw down our arms and submitt ourselves to Him!
1746 January 27 (Monday). At Neighbour Hardys and Rogers’s in the Morning—rode to Eleazer Pratts p.m. and round by Bezaleel Smiths through a swamp over to Mr. Samuel Fay junior. N.B. his wife after above Two Years Confinement got about again. But their Youngest Child sick. When I came home Mr. Stephen Fay here. He is Still disturb’d about my having Minutes of what pass’d between his wife and me May 3, 1744, and divers other Things came in. ‘Tis Matter of Grief that we are so frequently in Jarrs. The Lord pardon us for his Names sake!
1746 January 28 (Tuesday). A.M. at Ensign Bruce’s and Mr. Beeman’s. P.M. sent for to go to Mr. William Nurse’s to see several Children Sick of the Throat Distemper. In returning call’d at Mr. Stephen Fays—and (he being present) I put sundry close Inquirys to his wife offering to the oath that if She consent’d to the Substance of what had been written and did abide by that Reconcilement which was September 26 last I would blot out her name, but she would not make answer though repeatedly desir’d. Her Husband and I more happy in our Agreement by far than I expected.
1746 January 29 (Wednesday). Ante Meridiem: Recollections and Humilliations and [illegible] But was grievously interrupted by Dr. Gotts Mother (Mrs. Fairfield), Sally Gott and her Brother Benjamin as likewise Dr. Breck, all coming in a stormy Time (Raining hard) to see us, and I could not keep my Retirement. But I remember the wormwood and the Gall this Day Ten Years agoe.16 But how amazing the Divine Longsuffering towards Me who am most unworthy!
1746 January 30 (Thursday). They all lodg’d here. Dr. Breck to Boston. Mrs. Fairfield and the rest din’d with us, and toward Eve they return’d to Marlborough. At Eve Mr. Williams and Winchester here. Wrote Two Letters for Mr. Winchester. Late in the Evening came Captain Ephraim Williams junior—supp’d with me and hasten’d to Captain Maynards and he lodg’d there.
1746 January 31 (Friday). Mr. Samuel Hardy and William Rogers junior Swingling Flax. At Evening Mr. Phinehas Hardy of Grafton, who tells me that he and Mr. James Fay have exchang’d places. N.B. Mr. Fay has left us for many sabbaths.
1746 February 1 (Saturday). Mr. Benjamin Fay here for me to go to Mr. William Nurse’s Daughter Priscilla’s Funeral, which I comply’d with.
1746 February 2 (Sunday). On Ps. 68.1, Mat. 11.12. Widow Woods, Widow Thurston and Mr. Ithamar Bellows’s wife din’d here. N.B. I hear there is one Mr. Manson a Barber from Sudbury, is hir’d by the School Committee to keep school in the South East part of the Town.
1746 February 3 (Monday). Town Meeting for Town Debts. N.B. I sent in a Paper to the Town to Consider the Dammages I sustain by the long delay of my Dues—especially £82 old Tenor, from June 5 in the Year 1744 to October 20 of the same Year. Eli Forbush here. Letter from Mr. Jenison.17 Deacon Forbush, Beriah Rice—all upon the Same Thing, viz. to have me teach Eli and Asaph Rice.18 Brother Hicks here. Sarah Henry at work here on Ebenezers Jackett etc.
1746 February 4 (Tuesday). Thunder and Lightning in the Night past. Brother Hicks to Cambridge.
1746 February 5 (Wednesday). Mr. Benjamin Burnap here and din’d. I visited Sundry of our Near Neighbours—old Mr. Maynard etc. Old Mrs. Rogers Sick of a Fever and I went to see her; Spent some Time with her: she has Strong Confidence that she is prepar’d to dye, and appears much resign’d to the Divine Will.
1746 February 6 (Thursday). I preach’d at the Private Meeting at Lieutenant Tainters on Mat. 18.18.19. My wife rode with me. We din’d there. O that the Lord Jesus Christ might meet with us in all our Meetings! We were inform’d that Yesterday the Quarter sessions at Worcester abated the Rates of the Second Precinct to the Rate of £82 10 shillings to me from June 5 to October 20, 1744, and they gave Judgment also that the precincts proceedings had been invalid from the Beginning.
1746 February 7 (Friday). Noah How framing my Shed over my East Door. His Brother Benjamin a.m. assisted him. Mr. Goodwin19 of Worcester here to request me to preach at Worcester. Dr. Gott with him.
1746 February 8 (Saturday). I visited Mrs. Rogers again who is very low. Noah framing a.m.
1746 February 9 (Sunday). On Ps. 68.1, Eph. 2.6. N.B. Mrs. Fay (Samuel juniors wife) wondrously recover’d after Confinement above Two Years, out at Meeting to Day. Both Mr. Fay and his wife din’d with us. N.B. Receiv’d from Mr. Pierpoint by Mr. Loring.20
1746 February 10 (Monday). A Precinct Meeting at which I was prepar’d to give an Answer to their Messages to Me last Year: But by what was determin’d last Week at Worcester Court in the Affair of the North precinct, this precinct were So alarm’d and Suspicious of the invalidity of their own Acts, as a precinct, from the Beginning, that they ventur’d not to do anything Further—save that they chose a Moderator and then pass’d every Vote after (upon the several Bills or Petitions which were carry’d in) in the Negative. No Opportunity was given (nor by my Friends desir’d) for my Answer. N.B. Reckon’d with Deacon Newton. William Bois of Blanford was married to Mary Hamilton (Daughter in Law to Mr. Gamel).
1746 February 11 (Tuesday). I rode out to see old Mr. Rogers and his wife who were Sick. Then to see old Mr. Whipple, where was his son Francis. Talk’d of the present Confusion of the Town in both precincts. I went also to see Captain Baker, and Spent Some with him upon the Public Affairs in Town and Precinct. Debated amicably and parted Peaceably. Reckon’d with his Son Samuel. Neighbour Samuel Hardy Swingling Flax. Bright day but windy and Cold. N.B. I sent for Mr. Whipple and talk with him again upon the Confus’d state of the Town and precinct. P.M. was at Captain Maynards. N.B. About the Time a New Trouble Still blew up: which Neighbour Beriah Rice acquaint’d me with, viz. Robert Bradish went from one house to another Exclaiming against Last Sabbath afternoon sermon, as being Corrupt and Damnable Doctrine—So much in Defence of Grace and to the Disparagement of Works in point of Justification before God. But ‘tis a Favor that when this kind of Trial arises, I am complain’d of upon such Occasion as This. The Lord grant me suffering Grace in Suffering Time!
1746 February 12 (Wednesday). [No entry].
1746 February 13 (Thursday). Mr. Daniel Forbush21 kindly to acquaint me with the disgusts of Some others with last Sabbaths Exercise in the afternoon—looking upon himself (as Mr. Rice likewise did) in Duty and Faithfulness bound, to do it.
1746 February 14 (Friday). Very much engag’d in my Preparations—and Collecting the Sense and Judgment of the most Celebrated men on the Great Doctrine of Justification by Faith alone.
1746 February 15 (Saturday). [No entry].
1746 February 16 (Sunday). On Eph. 2.8. Added a Defence of this Doctrine from innumerable Authoritys not only to shew the Truth but the Importance and Weight of it. Read a Manuscript Extract of Mr. Lorings from Mr. Abraham Tailer22 on Justification. P.M. Repeat’d the remainder of Exposition of Mat. 11.12.
1746 February 17 (Monday). Paul Newtown and Mary Farrar23 Marry’d. Jonas Child here to be Examin’d and taught in order to his joining with the Church.
1746 February 18 (Tuesday). I rode over to Mr. Biglo’s to see his Daughter that was Sick; and I proceeded to Mr. Barretts—who (as I before conceiv’d would be) was going down to a Council at Framingham previous to the Ordination of Mr. Matthew Bridge.24 I made a Visit to Captain Morris, who return’d with me to his sisters (Mrs. Barretts) with which we din’d. N.B. Their Sister Barrett’s (Widow) House in an high wind took fire on the Roof—but by the help of the School Boys was Discover’d and Extinguish’d. I return’d home at Eve, and marry’d Thomas Patrick and Sarah Johnson. N.B. Neighbour Hardy riding with me inform’d that Mr. James Fay was this Day moving out of Westborough and Mr. Phinehas Hardy was moving in.
1746 February 19 (Wednesday). I rode to the Ordination of Mr. Matthew Bridge at Framingham. My son Ebenezer rode down also. Entertain’d at Ensign Stones. Great opposition by Captain Goddard25 and others Yesterday and today. The Council consisted of 11 Churches. Mr. Loring Moderator and Mr. Stone Clerk. The Council repair’d to the Meeting House before noon. Mr. Cook of Sudbury pray’d. Mr. Appleton26 preach’d from 1 Cor. 13.1.2. Then the Clerk read the Councils Result. Mr. Loring gave the Charge, Mr. Williams27 of Weston pray’d after the Charge, and gave the Right Hand. An Exceeding great Throng attended. May I have a suitable Impression upon my Spirits at the Remembrance of my own solemn Ordination! Visited old Madam Swift.28 Mr. Cushing and Stone, and Mr. Briton the Clothier my Company in returning. We call’d at both Mr. Britons and Mr. Stones. Reach’d home in Comfort. D.G. Moderate comfortable Weather.
1746 February 20 (Thursday). Great Change of Weather last night. Today very Cold and windy. Esquire Williams29 of Stockbridge came at Eve, having left Mr. Lydius30 at Boston, endeavouring to get French Prisoners, with which to redeem his Children from Canada.
1746 February 21 (Friday). Esquire Williams not well—too cold to undertake his Journey home.
1746 February 22 (Saturday). The Day somewhat moderate. Esquire Williams accompany’d to Worcester—and then I left him to prosecute his Journey to Brookfield. I unhappily miss’d of Mr. Emmerson31 who came from Worcester to preach at Westborough whilst I went there to gratifie the Request of the Committee at Worcester in administering the Ordinance of Baptism among them. Lodg’d at Mr. Eatons.32
1746 February 23 (Sunday). Cloudy—at length Snow. Preach’d at Worcester on John 1.11 and Rom. 6.13. P.M. baptiz’d the Children. See the Records.33 At Eve at Dr. Brecks34 and lodg’d there. In the Night the Wind rose exceeding high.
1746 February 24 (Monday). Wind very high and Cold. Broke fast at Colonel Chandlers. Visited Mr. Crossby at the Jayl. Return’d to the Colonel’s and din’d there. P.M. return’d home calling in especially at Mr. Cushings, Major Keys and Colonel Nahum Ward.35 At this last was Mr. Martyn.36 N.B. Some free Conversation with them with reference to Westborough Town and Precinct Affairs: but fear what use they may make. It shall be a warning.
1746 February 25 (Tuesday). At Colonel Wards Sollicitation I din’d at Captain Maynards with the Field Officers, who met upon some Affairs of the Regiment. Cold Day.
1746 February 26 (Wednesday). Preach’d at Southborough Preparatory Lecture on Rom. 6.13. Return’d at Eve. N.B. was in at Mr. Jacob Amsdens going and returning. Had a Mess of his boisterous windy Talk against—and manifesting dissatisfaction with me for my preaching and praying so much about the Spirit. N.B. Mr. Joseph Wood brought my Gold Buttons which I lost October 13, 1744, he having found them in the Road at Waltham last week. Captain Maynard at Eve.
1746 February 27 (Thursday). Mr. Stone preach’d my Lecture on Mat. 27.46. Mr. Jenison here at my House, but not a Lecture.
1746 February 28 (Friday). Mr. Aaron Hardy of Grafton here at Eve, as were also Messrs. James Maynard and Francis Whipple. Mr. Maynard as Collector Ventures Still to go on in Paying me notwithstanding the threatnings to break up the Precinct Transactions.
[1746 March 1 (Saturday). No Entry.]
1746 March 2 (Sunday). Sacrament and were favour’d by Providence with Moderate Weather, Yet Very few of our North side Brethren or Sisters at Communion. I confess I did not Send them over Express, written Word last Sabbath, For as I went from Home last Saturday it was not in my Mind. But I rested in this, that they could not but all of them know that it was our stated Cause. I preach’d a.m. and p.m. on Eph. 2.8, first part. Deacon Fay and his wife and Deacon Newton din’d here.
1746 March 3 (Monday). Two Precinct Meetings on this one Day, one for Precinct Debts and to hear my answer—the other for Election of Officers. Mrs. Mary Brigham (Gershoms Wife) din’d here.
1746 March 4 (Tuesday). I went early to Mr. Beemans and paid him £30 old Tenor and took up my Bond. N.B. By his wife’s assistance he was induc’d to forego the Whole of the Interest. I in the Mean Time promising to do him the like Kindness if he should stand in Need, and I be able. Catechiz’d both a.m. and p.m. at the Meeting House.
1746 March 5 (Wednesday). Young Mr. Emerson from Worcester here, and presently Captain Flagg37 both from Worcester. P.M. I was designing to go to Marlborough but Mrs. Child (Jonas’s wife) here to be examin’d. Brother Hicks from Cambridge. N.B. Though he has been down so long yet little Effected towards settling Accounts, but he tells me they were oblig’d to put in a Petition to the Judge to bring forward the Settlement of them.38 At Eve he went to Sutton.
1746 March 6 (Thursday). I preach’d at Deacon Jonathan Forbush’s on Judg. 11.35. My Daughter Molly went with me. Deacon Forbush acknowledg’d the Goodness of God to him in the Benefit he receiv’d by the Exercises Last Lords Day, and the special Communion (he judges) he had with God that Day in his Ordinances. Blessed be God for such a Favour! O that when I have preach’d and Minister’d to others, I may not my Self be a Cast away! We were accompany’d back by Mr. Williams as far his House.
1746 March 7 (Friday). One Alpheus Spencer (alias Prinmus) of Concord here, as he is going to Cape Breton. My sons Thrashing Barley. Thomas Winchester here at Evening.
1746 March 8 (Saturday). They sow’d some Peas in the Garden, and thrash’d Barley again.
1746 March 9 (Sunday). A.M. on Tit. 2.11. P.M. on Rom. 13.1, with some Additions. Proclamation for Fast.
1746 March 10 (Monday). Robert Bradish here—proud and obstinate, and would have me produce my Witnesses—Pertly Controverts and debates the Point. Maintains that Good Works do go into the Conditions of Justification. A Storm of Snow, and Cold Rain. At Eve divers persons here who acquaint’d me with the remarkable peace and Dispatch with which the affairs of Meeting to Day were carry’d on. I am not without hope that my sermon yesterday p.m. might be of Some service (by the Blessing of God) to them.
1746 March 11 (Tuesday). A Meeting of the Commission officers at Captain Maynards for dignifying the Regiment. Mr. Cushing came with Colonel Ward, and Mr. Smith39 with Colonel Wiliams;40 The Colonels gave me also their Invitation to dine with them which I was oblig’d to Comply with, though it was a very uncomfortable Interruption to me, and much prevented my Preparations for the Evening Fast.
1746 March 12 (Wednesday). Robert Bradish here but I did not Speak with him.
1746 March 13 (Thursday). Public Fast41 on Occasion of the horrid Rebellion in Scotland and of the Seasons of the Year before us. I preach’d on Jer. 6, latter part of 1 and 8. My wife ill again though she tarried at Meeting, yet was ill there; and increas’d at Evening.
1746 March 14 (Friday). My wife (through Divine Favor) grows Better. Ebenezer Sleds the Stones of the old Garden to the Well.
1746 March 15 (Saturday). Stormy Day. A Season of Close application to study.
1746 March 16 (Sunday). On Tit. 2.11.12. My Kinswoman Mrs. Winchester Sick of a Fever.
1746 March 17 (Monday). The Town was in Some perplexity by Means that the Summons to the Officers who were lately chosen for the Year, to be Sworn before Justice Baker, was not Dated, and the Days being run out which are sett by the Law, and they not Sworn, they chose them over again and So it happen’d that the Same Persons were Chose. I visited My Kinswoman Winchester, (dining at Mr. Grouts). Was at Mr. Benjamin Fays and Phinehas Hardy’s. At Evening Edwards Whipple here learning to sing.
1746 March 18 (Tuesday). Catechetical Exercise to Young Women, on Eph. 2.3, latter part. At Eve Mr. Frink,42 but proceeded on his Journey to Mr. Cushings.
1746 March 19 (Wednesday). Early sent Ebenezer with a Letter to Mr. Frink. Thomas Winchester here to Work.
1746 March 20 (Thursday). Wrote to Mr. Breck43 of Springfield, in Reply to his of February 28, which was in return to Mine of August 23 last. Inclos’d it to Dr. Breck of Worcester for Conveyance. Thomas Winchester at work. My son Thomas carry’d our Barley to Mr. Mathis.
1746 March 21 (Friday). Mr. Joseph Batchellor44 brought a piece of Strip’d Camblot45 Stuff which he had wove for my Daughter Molly. Having taken notice that Robert Bradish insists upon my Making out the Grounds of Letter of Admonition to him, I sent for Mr. Beriah Rice to come to me, who came accordingly at Evening. And this Very Evening I receiv’d a Tart Note from Robert who thinks of Putting me to greater Trouble if I don’t produce my Informers. Such his Insolence towards me, in addition to his Reproaches.
1746 March 22 (Saturday). [No entry].
1746 March 23 (Sunday). On Tit. 2.11.12, and Gal. 6.14. Appoint’d a Lecture to Young Men next Thursday.
1746 March 24 (Monday). When Thomas Winchester was lately with me we agreed upon Thursday next to break up the Ground, round about the Settle, and have bespoke plough and Cattle, 4 Yoke accordingly but forgetting this appointment yesterday, I appointed the Same Day to be Lecture to Young Men. So perplexing is it to have the Affairs of the Ministry and of a Farm to manage together. I was oblig’d to be up early this morning and go to Mr. Winchesters to Speak with Thomas who was going over to Upton for Several Days and thought my Appointment might be altered. And I had propos’d to visit his Mother this Morning, She still lying Sick. Thence I went to Mr. Harrington about Rails: and I receiv’d their Testimony about what Robert Bradish said at their House February 11. Visited Mr. Miller who is sick. Dr. Gott return’d part of the way with me.
1746 March 25 (Tuesday). Molly and I rode to Marlborough—Lecture to young Men. I preach’d on Rom. 6.13. Mr. Smith and I to Madam Woods’s46 after Exercise. Left Molly at Marlborough and Bekky Gott came home with me.
1746 March 26 (Wednesday). Robert Bradish by appointment here and his uncle Beriah and his wife, and Mr. Samuel Harrington and his Wife here and gave their Testimony against him. The Evidences were plain and direct; yet he did not yield. A number of people in the kitchen. After they went off I went to Captain Maynards. Reverend Bacon47 of Ashuelot came from Wrentham, here and lodg’d.
1746 March 27 (Thursday). Preach’d a Lecture to Young Men on Ps. 119.59.
1746 March 28 (Friday). We broke up the Ground about the settle. Thomas Winchester and Nathan Maynard help’d us. We had 5 Yoke of oxen besides my own. A precinct Meeting to See whether the Precinct would pay the Charges layd on them by the last Quarter Sessions, arising from the Petition of the North side to be freed from paying that part of my sallery from June 5, 1744 to October 20, of the Same Year. The Precinct chose a Committee to seek Council.
1746 March 29 (Saturday). Broke up Ground again at the Same Place with the Same Number of Cattle, by the Same Hands as yesterday—till noon. West yard broke up. N.B. Poor Jos. Clagg here, yesterday and to Day.
1746 March 30 (Sunday). On Tit. 2.11.12. P.M. Gal. 6.14. At Evening Mr. Martyn who lodg’d here.
1746 March 31 (Monday). Mr. Martyn gives his Answer to the North Precinct—in the Affirmative.48 I rode to Cambridge. Found Mother Champney weak and feeble, yet able to walk about. I lodg’d there.
1746 April 1 (Tuesday). Visited Brother Barrett who has been infirm ever since he came from Cape Briton, but now is very low and wasting. The Lord grant both him and Me a lively Sense of our frail and perishing Nature, and prepare us for our Dissolution! Heard that Mrs. Miriam Cheever is Dead. O that Every Death of those I knew and Convers’d freely with might be a new quickening to Me! I was with Edmund Trowbridge Esquire49 to consult him upon my Case with reference to the arrears of the Town of Westborough, and with respect to our Precincts Votes for my Sallery etc.—and some other Affairs of Difficulty with me at this Time. Proceeded to Boston; din’d at my Honoured Mothers, who through the Tender Mercy of God is yet Living, though Very feeble and not able to get up to Day till 3 p.m. Sister Betty much better than when I left her last. Lodg’d at Brother Alexanders. N.B. He is hot in Courtship already to Mrs. Rebecca Jarvis—but the Circumstances of his Family are very Urgent. The God of infinite Wisdom direct him and prevent his too soon forgetting the Great Design of the Sore Chastisement he is under! N.B. Sent my Horse to Cambridge by Mr. Larkins son.
1746 April 2 (Wednesday). Din’d at Cousen John Parkmans. N.B. Her Fervency for Children. But Lodg’d with my Kinsman Elias, who is yet with Dr. Delhonde. N.B. I was at Mrs. Martyns. Here was her son John—with whom I also took a long walk and talk with him about his telling of great and Strange Storys, etc.
1746 April 3 (Thursday). Visited Mrs. Carns of whom I had (gratis) an old Greek Lexicon, which with my Table Bible I consigned to Mr. Nathaniel Procter to be new bound. Visited Mr. Gee50 who is much impair’d in his Health. The Lord be gracious to him and restore him! Such worthy men being (alas!) too scarce. Was at the Public Lecture. Mr. Webb preach’d on Eph. 4.18. Din’d at Mr. Quincys51—where was also the Honourable Mr. Danforth52 and Mr. Josiah Quincy.53 Was also at Mr. Hubbards.54 At Mr. Daniel Henshaw’s, with Captain Samuel Waterhouse. At Evening Brother Alexander and his Mistress (Mrs. Rebecca Jarvis) at mothers, till late. Lodg’d at Mothers. I had Sent for my Horse, but kept him this Night at Brother Alexander’s Stable.
1746 April 4 (Friday). My Honour’d Mother Decays and I fear whether She will Continue any Long Time. Her Discourse last Evening whilst Brother Alexander was there, very Noticeable. Behold I die (Sayd She)—but God Shall visit you (directing herself to us her Children and having respect to our Children also in Case, that is, that we and ours Should keep the way of the Lord, as She had taught and Commanded us) and Shall be with you, etc. etc. with many Such like words, as the old Patriarch when solemnly taking leave of his Posterity. The Lord Let these weighty Sayings home upon my, and upon all our Hearts, that they may be ever duly observ’d and kept by us and ours! I took leave with Great Affection, and with Hearty Gratitude to God and Her. And O that God most Gracious and all-sufficient would be with her to Support and Comfort her, and safely conduct her to his heavenly and Eternal Kingdom!
I broke fast at my Kinsman Hearseys.55 Din’d at Brother Alexander’s. Improv’d Mrs. Stoddard to buy me a Calamanco Jacket and Breeches. N.B. Mr. Abbot of Andover at Mrs. Stoddards. N.B. Kinsman John Parkman presented me a Wigg of Considerable Price. Sett out upon my Journey from Cousen Procters—it began to Rain, after a drie Time. Storm increas’d So that I turn’d in at Captain Winchesters—and again at Mr. Richard Gardners56 during the Time of Terrible Thunder and Lightening. Lodg’d at Mother Champneys.
1746 April 5 (Saturday). Return’d home. N.B. din’d at Mr. Patersons at Sudbury. Mr. Cook’s57 wife very low—thought to be in a Consumption. The Lord prepare her for his holy Will! Found my Family well. Blessed by God our preserver! N.B. Thomas Winchester came to work for me last Wednesday noon to make up the month which he fell behind in our Agreement last Year. N.B. Mr. Stephen Maynard return’d home from the scout to Lake.
1746 April 6 (Sunday). On Hosea 13.9. Old Sermons which I had too Little Time to Correct, as it happens likewise in many of my Repititions—for though I am not well pleas’d with the Composition of many of my sermons after I have deliver’d them yet am oblig’d to repeat them with too little Alteration. O that God would pardon my many and great Defects and Miscarriages; and bless my imperfect, mean Endeavours!
1746 April 7 (Monday). Thomas at work—ploughing stubble. P.M. Mr. Davis58 of Holden lodg’d here.
1746 April 8 (Tuesday). Mr. Davis and I rode over to Association at Hopkinton. Mr. Loring,59 Mr. Cushing and Mr. Stone60 were all (except Two Young Gentlemen) that came besides. Mr. Seccomb, who was to have deliver’d the Concio, did not come. Mr. Barrett repeat’d his sermon at Mr. Millens Ordination. Mr. Bridge of Framingham told us a Council call’d by the Dissenting party, was to sit at that place tomorrow, and he desir’d advice. The advice given him was not to concern himself with them. The Council which had ordain’d him having sufficiently Examin’d him already.
1746 April 9 (Wednesday). Mr. Davis preach’d the Public Lecture on Acts 5.31. Mr. Loring and Mr. Davis came home with me and lodg’d here.
1746 April 10 (Thursday). Mr. Davis went home a.m. Mr. Loring preach’d my Lecture on Jer. 23.6. An Excellent Savoury Sermon. The Lord be pleas’d to make it Savingly usefull and Beneficial to us! At Evening Mr. Loring went to Marlborough, not without my hearty gratitude for his kind assistance. Lieutenant Tainter came and offer’d to Cutt my Colt which by the Help of Some Persons here he Effected.
1746 April 11 (Friday). Captain Maynard returns from Boston and brings word that my Honoured Mother grows worse.
1746 April 12 (Saturday). Fine weather. Thomas Sow’d Barley. Might Grace Spring in our Hearts!
1746 April 13 (Sunday). Sacrament. Preach’d a.m. on Luke 24.46. P.M. Hosea 13.9. N.B. At Communion we sung Rev. 5.10, at which Mrs. Whitney cry’d out—but we went on without stopping to the End of what was propos’d—and she was still at the Blessing. O might it please God to give us all a lively sense of his infinite Love and our great Obligations to him therefor! O that we might walk worthy of him to all well pleasing! N.B. Deacon Fay, Widow Woods, Mrs. Collister61 and Mrs. Bowman62 din’d here. N.B. Many of the North side were absent from Communion. We were in much Expectation that Mr. Martyn would have brought his wife over to us this Evening—but he came not.
1746 April 14 (Monday). Thomas sowing Rye. Isaac Amsden sues William Rogers junior before Nahum Ward Esquire. Ebenezer Graffing.63 Mr. James How of Worcester here to buy Cyder. N.B. his smart Arguing in behalf of the Arminians.64 N.B. My Wife rode over to Mr. Caruth’s.
1746 April 15 (Tuesday). Rain a.m. Catechetical Exercises to Young Women—The fore part of what I deliver’d was (without writing) on the Moderator and his Offices in general. The Latter part on the Office of a Prophet in particular and under that Head improv’d a Considerable part of my sermon on Isa. 61.2, viz the Beginning to Page 7 and the Heads of Application in page 25 and 26, omitting many of the particulars under those Heads. P.M. My Daughter Sarah taken ill.
1746 April 16 (Wednesday). A Dark Morning by means of the Storm of Rain—but far darker by means of the Most Sorrowfull Message Receiv’d by Letter from my Brother Samuel Parkman by the Hands of Mr. William Ward of Southborough (My Brother having given Ten Shillings to Convey me the Letter) That last Lords Day Evening about 6 o’Clock our Honoured and dear Mother departed this Life: and that tomorrow was appointed to be the Funeral. Though we have long had warnings yet O how shocking when at last it comes! An Excelling Woman, as acknowledg’d by all that I have heard speak of her: Friends or Foes; especially in wisdom and steadiness and Piety. God was pleas’d to Bless her with a Tenacious Memory, which she had to the last, and remembring recent Facts as well as antient. God made her a great and rich Blessing to us all, and we had much Happiness in her. She was one of those Vertuous Women whom her Children think themselves in Duty Bound to rise up and call Blessed. The Lord be with us in the Great Duty of holy Mourning now incumbent! We waited while the Rain Slacken’d; and p.m. My Wife and I set out and rode to Marlborough. At Esquire Brighams65 we borrow’d a Chair, and Lodg’d at Dr. Gotts.66
1746 April 17 (Thursday). Just after sun rise we rode from Marlborough to Boston and din’d at Mrs. Keggells. Hasten’d to Brother Alexanders where we put up our Chair and Horse. The Funeral was put by because of the Fowl weather Yesterday which was thought would prevent my Coming. I went to my Brother Samuels to consult him about Necessary Preparations but hasten’d to take a View of the Dear and much Esteem’d Remains—which though So long breathless were not greatly alter’d from Life. The Lord Convince Me of my own Frailty, Since most certainly I am the Same as she from whom I came! The Lord prepare me for the awfull Time! In the Evening my Brethren were together at Mothers and we pray’d together. My wife and I lodg’d there.
1746 April 18 (Friday). Was much engag’d the fore part of the Day in buying black Cloth for a Coat—at length Suited myself at Mr. Lawtons £8 and 5 shillings per yard: improv’d Mr. Owen to make it—but because it was not possible to get it ready for the Funeral, my Brother Samuel was So Friendly as to lend me a Black Coat till my own could be made. This Eve The Remains of my Honoured Parent were decently interr’d. Mr. Gee not able by reason of illness to be there; but Mr. Webb and Mr. Eliot were. The Bearers were Deacon Procter and Elder Baker, Deacon Hunt and Deacon Townsend, Deacon Larraby and Dr. Archibald. After we return’d and the Company, except near Relations, gone, we again pray’d together. And O that now both Father and Mother Forsake us the Lord would take us up! N.B. Mr. Gee (by means of Deacon Larraby) Sent to me to preach for him next Sabbath—which I was not against if I did preach any where in Town. Lodg’d at sister Bettys.
1746 April 19 (Saturday). Din’d at Brother Parkmans. Mr. Eliot Sent me a Messenger to Desire me to preach for him one part of the Day tomorrow, upon which I made him a Visit—and declin’d preaching for him at this Time because I felt but feeble and doubted whether I should be able to preach all Day for my Brethren expected me to give them some Exercise at Evening. I also Visited Mr. Gee who was in a low state of Health. Lodg’d at the Same.
1746 April 20 (Sunday). I preach’d at the Old North a.m. on Rom. 6.13, middle Clause. But yield themselves unto God, etc. Mr. Maccarty p.m. there on [blank]. N.B. din’d at Mr. Gees—and my wife there with me after meeting at Eve, From whence we went to sister Willards, where my late honoured Mother dwelt, and I had an Exercise to my Brethren and other Relatives on John 3.23 latter part. May God make these Exercises usefull to us in our Sorrow and Mourning under our sore Bereavement! We lodg’d there. N.B. Brother Alexander brings Cousen Rebecca Jarvis freely among us, and she was with us this Evening.
1746 April 21 (Monday). Mr. Owen finish’d my Coat at Evening. After Sundry Visits in the Day I met my Brethren at sister Willards to read our Honoured Mothers Last Will and Testament, and attend upon the Duty Consequent, Particularly we valued the negro Pito: and as my Mother had given him leave to choose which of us should be his Master, he chose Brother Samuel—who took possession of him. N.B. p.m. we were at Mr. Eliots and Mr. Robert Brecks, etc. etc.
1746 April 22 (Tuesday). We din’d at Brother Samuels and Mr. Jabez Fox67 of Casco with us, who informs us of the Mischief done by the Indians at Gorham Town. 4 killed and 3 carry’d Captive. At Eve we Supp’d at Brother Samuels with Brother Alexander and Mrs. Rebecca Jarvis—and lodg’d there.
1746 April 23 (Wednesday). My Horse for several Nights kept at my Kinsman Procters. We mounted from Brother Alexanders—din’d at Mrs. Keggells—made a visit at Judge Dudleys,68 and proceeded to Cambridge before Night.
1746 April 24 (Thursday). Brother Hicks Set out from Cambridge with us. We rode to Dr. Gotts, and to Esquire Brighams, where we left our Chair. Captain Maynard there. Sorrowfull News of Mr. Antipas Brighams Death at Grafton. Some bad News also from our own Family at Westborough That a few Days agoe my Young Cow (whose Calf was newly kill’d for the sake of the Milk) was a few Nights agoe drown’d in Mr. Barns’s Swamp. We ourselves got home well, and found our Children and Whole Family Well; Sarah whom we left not well, comfortable, and Suse well wean’d. Blessed be God!
1746 April 25 (Friday). Mr. John Brown69 from Cambridge here and lodg’d here. Tells us the sorrowfull News of upper Ashuelot besett by the Indians, and several Houses there in Flames. May God be mercifully present with them and save them and especially with Mr. Bacon70 in this distressing time.
1746 April 26 (Saturday). Mr. Brown to Worcester where he preaches.
1746 April 27 (Sunday). On the Occasion of the Death of my Honoured Mother, and Several other Bereavments (Ex. gr. Captain Forbush and Mrs. Byles mourn for the Loss of their sister Bruce and Ensign Bruce and Mrs. Miller the Loss of their Mother; Captain Baker and Captain Maynard and their wives the Death of their Brother Antipas Brigham, and Bezaliel Smith and wife the Loss of one of their Children) I preach’d a.m. on Rev. 14.13, and p.m. on Ps. 27.10. May it please God to Concurr with both the Word and the Providence.
1746 April 28 (Monday). Mr. Martyn71 here. He tells me the Day for his Ordination is appoint’d, and Church to assist are chose. N.B. he asks me to preach on that Solemn occasion. He din’d here. P.M. he was to meet a number of Brethren who are preparing Letters to be Sent to the Churches, and he is about his Trading for a place to live on.
1746 April 29 (Tuesday). I Catechiz’d at the School House—about 45 Children. Visited at Mr. Childs, at Mr. Whitneys, Mr. Millers (whose wife is Sick yet) and at Mr. Daniel Forbush’s.
1746 April 30 (Wednesday). A Number of Brethren from the North side here, viz. Messrs. Townsend, Allen and his Son, Matthias Rice and Silas Fay: and with them Mr. John McCollister desiring to be dismiss’d and recommended to the building a Church of Christ in the North part of the Town. I mention’d to them their Delinquency on Communion Days, their Injustice towards me respecting the arrears which were due to me from the Town, and the securing to me the Material [ministerial?] Rights. At Length came Mr. Wheeler, James Ball and Jacob Rice, who were opposite to the former and to their proceedings. Mr. Ball mention’d his Desire of a Church Meeting in order to have Some Conference and to sett all Things to Rights before we Divide and his proposal of a Meeting was agreed to.
1746 May 1 (Thursday). I preach’d at the Private Meeting at Deacon Newton’s72 on 1 John 1.7. The rather because of the Languishing State of the Meeting much complain’d of Still, but yet not pitty’d and reform’d—though I have been divers Times present with them upon this Very Ground. I Stop’d the Brethren after Meeting and talk’d to them upon that Head and earnestly Exhorted as well as admonish’d—hoping they would show some regard. We afterwards fell into some Discourse with relation to our North side and their Affairs. N.B. Molly rode with me. At Eve Thomas Winchester finish’d with me for last Years agreement—he having been paid therefor some time agoe.
1746 May 2 (Friday). Agreed with Thomas to help me from June 15 to August 15 and to have 22£ Old Tenor.
1746 May 3 (Saturday). Mr. Stone here, going to Worcester to change with Mr. Brown.73 P.M. Captain Forbush’s wife.
1746 May 4 (Sunday). I preach’d on Ps. 27.10, all Day. Rainy. N.B. No Letter yet from Northside. Propounded Jonas Childs and Wife and Sarah Forbush, wife of Captain Forbush. Stop’d the Church and acquainted them with the Desires of 5 Brethren on the North side to be dismiss’d; and read the request of another five to have a Church Meeting. Church meeting appointed to be 2 p.m. Next Wednesday.
1746 May 5 (Monday). I visited Mr. Adams’s little son who had been much burnt at a Cole-Pitt. Mr. Stone74 in his journey from Worcester here, and it being rainy he lodg’d here.
1746 May 6 (Tuesday). Mr. Stone return’d home.
1746 May 7 (Wednesday). The Church met at the Request of Mr. Joseph Wheeler and Four others, Brethren of the Church to have Some Conference with those 6 Brethren who desire Dismission. See Records of the Church.75 Not being able to come to a Vote to dismiss the Brethren desiring it, the Meeting was adjourn’d to Next Monday Morning 8 o’Clock.
1746 May 8 (Thursday). I found there was a Considerable Frost last Night. Rode to Shrewsbury and Consulted Mr. Cushing76 upon our Difficultys in the Church. Din’d there. Settl’d my account with Mr. Parker Shoemaker—was at Mr. Thomas Smiths whose wife is making me a Calamanco Jacket and Breaches. When I got home Neighbour Eliezer Rice concerning the Ministerial Meadow. Mr. Daniel Warrins (alias Spriggins). They were in Sorrows for 2 of his wife’s Brethren who dy’d at Cape Breton.
1746 May 9 (Friday). In the Morning rode to Eliezer Rice’s and sent my son Ebenezer to work with him and a son of Lieutenant Forbush’s, in Mending up the Fence of the Ministerial Meadow.
1746 May 10 (Saturday). Greatly hinder’d by Mr. Josiah Bowkers being here to be Examin’d in order to his joining with others in laying the foundations of a Church in the North Precinct, but I advis’d him to wave it; besides that the Time was So short that there could be no opportunity for him to come again—-and there would be enough for a Church without him. A Warm Day. At Eve came Mr. Carns77 of Boston, who had been [on] a Journey to New Haven.
1746 May 11 (Sunday). Mr. Carns a.m. on Mat. 16.24. Let him Deny himself. P.M. on Col. 1.27. Christ in you the Hope of Glory. Mr. Jenison at Meeting and here at Evening.
1746 May 12 (Monday). Mr. Carns’s Horse not fit to go his Journey by reason of the Swelling of his Back. Church Met according to Adjournment. See Church Records.78 I was full of deep Concern to See the Church so perplex’d—and I became faint and weary before we had done. But (by the Help of God) I endeavour’d to Manage every affair with the utmost Impartiality and refus’d to Vote, My Self, in any Article, but yielded all to them. Mr. Carns din’d with me. Mr. Martyn visited me. I urg’d him to provide Some Body else to preach the Ordination Sermon, and especially because of the uncertainty of the Councils allowing our Church votes. I enquir’d what he might intend by preventing Jealousies and Suspicions in his Letter to me, Since I had given No Cause for any? He invited my Wife and Daughter to Ordination. Mr. Martyn left me to go to a Number of his Brethren who were to meet in the Northside to Day. Mr. Carns lodg’d here. N.B. Mr. Jenison with Mr. Martyn to Day.
1746 May 13 (Tuesday). Cloudy and drizly in the Morn. P.M. did not rain, but it being Easterly weather Mr. Carns did not Care to go his Journey home. Mr. Jonas Child here, upon the Affair of his Relation but I could not write for him. School begins by Mr. Jenison at old Mr. Maynards.
1746 May 14 (Wednesday). Mr. Carns ventur’d to undertake his Journey home. Brother Hicks and his wife, his Company. P.M. Mrs. Forbush (Captain’s wife) here to get her Relation writ. While I was engag’d in her Busines came Mrs. Edwards of North Grafton [Northampton?] and Major Pomeroys grandson. With them came also Reverend Mr. Bridge of Framingham—and Lieutenant Tainter. The Last inform’d me of the Sorrowfull Fall of Mrs. Betty Loring,79 being six months gone with Child by Manson80 the Barber at Sudbury. More sad news from the Frontiers—the Indians have wounded Several persons at Colerain and Husack, and led away Captive Deacon Brown and another man from lower Ashuelot.
1746 May 15 (Thursday). Mrs. Edwards and the Lad with her went to Boston. Lieutenant Aaron Forbush to get a Letter writ by me to his son Noah. Mr. Daniel Warrin at stone Wall. Came at 10 a.m., yet he built me (as he said) 7 Rod—for which he ask’d me 7 Shillings though by the Rod it would have amount to half as much more.
1746 May 16 (Friday). Mr. James How of Worcester here for Cyder. I sold him 2 Barrells filled up for 20 pence per Barrell.
1746 May 17 (Saturday). Ebenezer and Thomme Shear’d Sheep.
1746 May 18 (Sunday). On Tit. 2.12. Rev. 22.20. Ebenezer goes to the Private Meeting of Young Men.
1746 May 19 (Monday). Mr. McAllister here for his Certificat; and Mr. Matthias Rice here with a Letter from Mr. Martyn concerning my preaching his Ordination sermon which I had already consented to in Case the Council Should advise that we Should join in the work of that Day. I rode over to Mr. Allens, and there (at the Mill) wrote a Letter to Mr. Barrett,81 Seconding a Letter from Mr. Martyn desiring him to come prepar’d to preach in Case etc. I din’d at Mr. Palatiah Rice’s. Bought peas at 16 shillings and wheat at 18 pence per Bushel. Was at Mr. Thomas Warrins, at the widow Coolidge’s, at Mr. McAllisters, Gershom Fay’s, Lawrence’s and Mr. Nathan Balls. N.B. his Son Ebenezer lyes by with a broken Thigh. I proceed’d (according to my main Design in going out to Day) to visit Mrs. Livermore who is in a Wasting Condition. In Return was at Mr. James Balls. There were Mr. Wheeler, Mr. Jacob Rice, Lawrence, etc. contriving and preparing to oppose the Ordinance [ordination?][;] call’d at Mr. George Smiths and Timothy Fays. N.B. in their Talk of Mr. Martyn I was every way endeavouring to mollifie etc., and should they make the worst of it they might Remember the Story of St. Augustine who did not preach till he was 35. When I came home I found Mr. Bridgham82 of Brimfield and his Mother, who lodg’d here.
1746 May 20 (Tuesday). Mr. Bridgham with his Mother from Boston. At Eve Mr. Gay83 of Suffield and his sister Ballantine in their Journey to Dedham, here and lodg’d here. Town Meeting. Mr. Francis Whipple chose Representative. I sent for Lieutenant Holloway84 and talk’d with him for his Reproachfully declaring in Town Meeting that I would take more than Lawfull Interest. He made a mean and unsatisfying Defence.
1746 May 21 (Wednesday). Rainy Morning. Mr. Gay and his sister set out when it was moderated. Mr. Barrett here going to the Ordination. My Wife went over with me. Met at Lieutenant Holloways. Messrs. Prentice, Cushing, Gardner,85 there already. Mr. Loring and Mr. Hall86 did not come, So that there were but 5 Churches. Mr. Prentice Moderator. Mr. Barrett Clerk. The Church of Westborough refus’d to join in the Council till the Votes of Said Church were Scann’d and judg’d of. The Council judg’d them Valid; yet they requested the advice of the Council whether all Things consider’d it could be, nevertheless, advisable for them to Act? Who Still advis’d to it. Upon which they join’d in Council. Objections were brought in (about 12 o’Clock) by Messrs. Wheeler, Jacob Rice, and Timothy Fay, but when debated on by the Council they were Voted insufficient to be any Barr to proceeding. We went to meeting 1/2 after 4 p.m. Mr. Barrett began with prayer. I preach’d on Heb. 13.17. Mr. Gardner gather’d the Church which consisted of Ten, viz. Ephraim Alen, John McAllister, Joshua Dowsing, Jonathan Livermore, John Caruth, Matthias Rice, Gershom Fay, Silas Fay, [blank] Shepherd and Samuel Allen. Mr. Prentice gave the Charge, Mr. Cushing the Fellowship of the Churches. Sung Ps. 66 from number 17 one staff and 1/2. It was almost night when we broke off. An unhappy accident befell a young man by the Fall of one of the Supporters of the Gallery. He was knock’d down to the Ground and seem’d Stunn’d for a while, but he was taken up and grew better. It was that son of Mr. Nathaniel Oake who has already met with Many Sad Disasters—but God be prais’d he yet survives! After Supper we were accompany’d home by Sir Williams and three young scholars more. Baldwin,87 Cook,88 and Richardson,89 who all lodg’d here. And thus we have seen another Church founded in this Town and another Pastor ordain’d: And may the God of infinite Mercy forgive all my unfaithfulness to those who have been under my Care! may all that has been unrighteous, and blameworthy in them be pardon’d of God! May that Church be a Pure Golden Candlestick and the person Set up therein be a Starr, a burning and Shining Light! May we all be united in Faith and Love! that we may have Sweet Communion, mutual assistance and Consolation here, and meet together in the heavenly Glory at last—through Christ Jesus. Amen! Besides my having So much Company of late to Shorten my Pasture, a Number of Horses, chiefly from Captain Maynards, have broke in for Several Nights.
1746 May 22 (Thursday). Sir Williams etc. had not left us before we were favour’d with Mr. Barretts Company, who tarried and din’d with me. N.B. a Council Sat at Framingham on Tuesday last, and sits at Hopkinton to Day, at the Call of the Separating Partys. P.M. Brother Hicks and his wife from Cambridge and lodg’d here.
1746 May 23 (Friday). Sent the Young Creatures to Sutton, under the Care of Brother Hicks.
1746 May 24 (Saturday). Ebenezer and Thomme draw Stones for Well. Mr. Jenison goes to Worcester.
1746 May 25 (Sunday). Sacrament. Luke 24.46. 2 Cor. 5.20. The Opposing Brethren of the North Side here at Communion, and Mrs. Laurence, Mrs. Fay (Samuel Junior’s wife), Mrs. Chamberliln (John’s wife) besides Captain Fay din’d here. O that we might not enjoy our happy privileges in Vain! nor liberation in Religion without some good Effect! I call’d heaven and Earth to witness, in Communion Exercise, that we did now Solemnly Covenant and bind ourselves to be the Lords! May we have grace to abide by it!
1746 May 26 (Monday). Somewhat Cold. No School. Mr. Jenison not come from Worcester.
1746 May 27 (Tuesday). Early in the Morning I rode over to Mr. Williams to see his sons Wife and Child who had the Throat Distemper. Mr. Francis Whipple the Representative was with me, and we thence prosecuted our Journey for Cambridge and Boston. We rode to Mr. Liscombs90 (at Southborough), to Mr. Stones—to Colonel Buckministers—rain’d at Weston—din’d at Woolsons Tavern. There came Mr. Cushing, and Mr. Whitney of Nitchewaug. My Company rode along, but much more on the Road, Colonel Stoddard,91 Chandler92 etc. We stopp’d at Saltmarsh’s—and then many more; Brigadier Dwight,93 Colonel Porter, Mr. Breck, Mr. Chester Williams. Afterwards Dr. William Clark of Boston etc. I proceeded as far as Cambridge and lodg’d at Mother Champneys.
1746 May 28 (Wednesday). Rode to Boston, put up my Horse at Mr. Samuel Procters. Visited my sister Willard, who has been in a poorer state of Health than usual, ever since Mother’s Death. The sermon to Day was by my Excellent Master Barnard of Andover. Din’d with Brother Alexander. P.M. at the Convention. Dr. Sewal Moderator and Mr. Checkley Clerk. Voted an address to the King on Occasion of the Rebellion. Supp’d at Sister Bettys with Brother Alexander and his mistress. Lodg’d at Sister Willards.
1746 May 29 (Thursday). Mr. Gay of Hingham preach’d to the Convention on John 3. The Collection (I think) amounted to 232£. A peaceable Meeting. Blessed be God! Din’d at Mr. Checkleys with Mr. President, Mr. Barnard of Marblehead, Mr. Appleton, Mr. Bridgham and Mr. Maccarty. At Convention p.m. we met to finish the Address and distribute the Collection. At Eve rode to Cambridge and lodg’d at Mother Champneys. N.B. Sister Lydia at Boston.
1746 May 30 (Friday). Went over to College for the Sake of Mr. Cushings Company, and to Mr. William Morse’s to have a shooe put on to my Mare. Spent some little Time in the publick Library. We din’d at Mr. Stearns’s in Watertown: and call’d at Matthias Rice’s. Found my Tabernacle in Peace. Blessed be God!
1746 May 31 (Saturday). Mr. Rand (now of Kingstown) came and din’d with me. Afterwards came Mr. Buckminster. The design’d Expedition to Canada now no longer a secret. The Lord be pleas’d to give all needed Direction, and prepare all the Hearts of his people for his great Mercy!
1746 June 1 (Sunday). On Mat. 10.39. He that Saveth is Life etc. and Ch. 12.41. The Man of Nin—O might there be a suitable Effect, by the Gracious Concurrence of God.
1746 June 2 (Monday). Rainy. Frequently bad news from the Frontiers. Many people from Wrentham etc. riding to upper Ashuelot to the aid of the women. At the Evening came Mr. Devotion94 of Windham and lodg’d here.
1746 June 3 (Tuesday). Mr. Devotion for Suffield. The Catechetical Exercise: but I could not begin my preparations till noon, when I sat down and wrote the minutes of what I deliver’d.
1746 June 4 (Wednesday). Rode to Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s Shop. His Father Charles changes my Firelock. N.B. This Day about 7 or 8 o’Clock in the morning Mr. Samuel Harrington (and divers others) Saw in the South West a blazing Meteor, which Soon was Extinct.
1746 June 5 (Thursday). Mr. Breck95 of Springfield here and din’d with me. Cold Season.
1746 June 6 (Friday). Mr. Appleton96 and with him Mr. John Wendall97 of College here. The north Company train’d. I pray’d with them. At Eve Mr. Appleton, etc. went down with me to Captain Maynards. The Expedition to Canada Engrosses all Conversation.
1746 June 7 (Saturday). Mr. Appleton and Mr. Wendall to Worcester. P.M. refreshing Rain and Moderate Thunder.
1746 June 8 (Sunday). On Tit. 2.12, and p.m. repeated on Acts 13.36. Mr. Miller din’d with us.
1746 June 9 (Monday). Noah Forbush98 here who gives me a distinct account of the Skirmish with the Indians at No. 4 last Saturday was fortnight when 5 Englishmen were kill’d, one wounded, and one carry’d away Captive. N.B. Noah was in the hottest Engagement, and broke through the Indians though in a Lane, and 70 Rod from the Fort. So memorable the Goodness of God towards him that he got in Safe.99 N.B. Though the Thunder last Saturday was So Moderate here, yet at Mr. Joseph Wheelers an Horse was kill’d. Training of the South Company and I din’d with the Officers at Captain Fays.100
1746 June 10 (Tuesday). Rainy. My Cattle grow very troublesome by breaking in upon my Corn, whilst Ebenezer and Thomme were gone a fishing. Mr. Eliezer Rice hobbled my Ox which was the Ringleader in the Mischief. At Eve Mr. Ebenezer Rice here and whilst he wants Privileges in the Church discovers to me the great Disadvantage his Character had been brought under by Lydia Pratt of Grafton.
1746 June 11 (Wednesday). Brother Hicks from Cambridge tells me they are in a way of settling the Affairs at Mother Champney’s.
1746 June 12 (Thursday). Preach’d to Young Men from Jer. 46.10 former part, but herein us’d Sermon 3 and 4 on Isa. 61.2. Though the Subject was very moving yet there were but few to hear. O that God would quicken and awaken up all of us!
1746 June 13 (Friday). James White and Robert Cook101 here; they with Some others going out to the Frontiers. May the Lord Sanctifie them and protect them. Thomas Winchester here at Evening to desire he may not begin with me at the Time agreed for, but may take Care of Mr. Abraham Temple’s102 Work and Affairs for a while, he being come out in the Troop, to the Frontiers. Out of compassion therefore I yielded to a Weeks Delay.
1746 June 14 (Saturday). The Sow missing yesterday and this morning—at length found by the Side of a great Pine Logg in the Hill, with Ten Piggs. P.M. a Storm of Thunder and rain: but bore away to the South, and south East. Reverend Mr. Smith here requesting me to go to Worcester in his Stead, but I could not well go. He proceeded to Shrewsbury.
1746 June 15 (Sunday). Rest of Sermon on Acts 13.36, and p.m. on 2 Tim. 2.3.
1746 June 16 (Monday). Mr. Smith of Marlborough was here, and din’d with me. P.M. I went to the Funeral of Mr. Eliezer Rice’s Child.103
1746 June 17 (Tuesday). My Wife and I were purposing to Visit Mr. Martyn and his, but Mr. Buckminster104 with his spouse came a.m. and din’d with us, but we prosecuted our Design. At Mr. Martyns were Mr. Goss105 and his Wife, and Mr. Martyns Landlord and Landlady Sawyer. I beg of God that the Correspondence which I now settle may be for his Glory and our mutual good, and that of the Societys respectively under our Care! At Eve when we return’d home my wife was ill, and full of Pain.
1746 June 18 (Wednesday). Hard Thunder in the Morning but it did not seem very nigh, and accompanying it was a great Storm of Rain. Mr. Cushing here and is desirous that instead of preaching a Lecture to his young people I would preach the Lecture Preparatory to the Sacrament among them.
1746 June 19 (Thursday). Preach’d at Shrewsbury Lecture on Rom. 6.13. Yield yourself to God. N.B. Not many at meeting. There was a Training yesterday and another to be tomorrow—besides that it was good weather for Business after much hindrance by the late Rains. N.B. Captain Caleb Johnsons106 House was greatly wreck’d by the Thunder Yesterday Morning and the Lives of the Family marvellously Spar’d. N.B. Lieutenant Stone107 came to Speak with me about my Letter, lately Sent to Mr. Cushing in which it was Suppos’d I severely check’d the Young Society there for their undutifulness to their pastor. I had prepar’d an Answer and deliver’d it by Lieutenant’s Hands. At Eve when I return’d to my own House I found there Mr. Elisha Whittlesey of Wallingford and Mrs. Sara Noyes108 of New Haven who lodg’d here.
1746 June 20 (Friday). Rain a.m. held up p.m. After Dinner our Company went off. Sorrowfull News that Benjamin Tainter is either kill’d or Carry’d away Captive, by the Indians who have besett Massachusetts Fort at Hoosuck.
1746 June 21 (Saturday). About 10 o’Clock at night comes Mr. Thomas Marsh109 from College to request me to go to Worcester to preach in Mr. Stevens’s110 Stead. The Circumstances of the Case being Singular (as he related the matter with regard to both Mr. Steven and himself)—though he had undertaken to come, yet it was only to Exchange with Some Neighbouring Ministers, and if I could not he must go to Mr. Cushing or somebody for he could not preach there himself. I told him Mr. Cushing preach’d there but last Sabbath and Especially I know Mr. Cushing could not go because it was his (appointed) Sacrament. As to his being so late in his Journey, the President and Fellows sat upon an affair of some Difficulty till one o’Clock, and after that he had to dine. I at length consented to go, and
1746 June 22 (Sunday). In the morning I rose so Early as to ride a mile from home before sunrise. Got to Worcester about 7 o’Clock. Preach’d all Day on Gal. 2.20. N.B. Colonel Chandler, who came up last night, confirms the News which Mr. Marsh brought that the Duke of Cumberland is Slain in Battle against the Rebells at Inverness. Din’d at the Colonel’s. Supp’d at Dr. Brecks. Rode back to Mr. Cushings at Eve and lodg’d there.
1746 June 23 (Monday). Home Early. Mr. Marsh not gone. Thomas Winchester was to have come but did not till nigh noon, and I had sent the Oxen home which I had order’d to be got together to cross our Ground by the Settle. It prov’d Rainy also, So that Thomas could do but little today. Pamela which Colonel Chandler lent to Molly.
1746 June 24 (Tuesday). We cross’d the foresaid Ground with Neighbour Tomlins, Neighbour Hows and my own Oxen and Mare. Yet ‘twas somewhat Rainy. Mr. Samuel Forbush of Upton here to be Examin’d. Mrs. McAllister and Mrs. Dowsing here, would have Dismissions from our Church.
1746 June 25 (Wednesday). Thomas and Ebenezer Hoaing and Mowing. They finish’d the Second. The first good Day for Hay that has come. I visited Lieutenant Tainter111 and his Family in their Distress for Benjamin, who, as they conclude, is carry’d away Captive by the Indians. Captain Maynard brought old Christian (Squa Widow of George Misco) from Grafton to dwell at his House. Frequently bad news respecting our poor Englishmens Sufferings in the Indian Wars. We hear of another Skirmish at No. 4, and that a Trooper Shot himself with his own Pistol. Lieutenant Hezekiah Ward here at Evening.
1746 June 26 (Thursday). Thomas and Ebenezer Mowing: a good Hay Day. P.M. Mr. Martyn here. After School Mr. Jenison. At Eve I walk’d to Captain Maynards to See Old Christian.
1746 June 27 (Friday). Rain a.m. Considerable Hay lyes expos’d. P.M. held up.
1746 June 28 (Saturday). No School yesterday or to Day.
1746 June 29 (Sunday). On 2 Tim. 2.3, a. and p.m. N.B. Lieutenant Tainter receiv’d a Letter from Aaron Warrin at Fort Pelham informing and Certifying of the onsett of the Indians on Hoosuck or Massachusetts Fort, and killing or carrying away Benjamin Tainter. N.B. Captain Thomas Steel, one that has Beating Orders for Canada, at meeting here.
1746 June 30 (Monday). Journeyed to Boston. Din’d at Mr. Patersons in Sudbury with Sir Williams. Sir Bass my Company from thence to Roxbury. Lodg’d at Brother Alexanders who marry’d Mrs. Rebecca Jarvis on the 5th Day of this Month.
1746 July 1 (Tuesday). Visited my (only) Sister Willard, who through divine Goodness is better, and talks of going to Westborough with me. Din’d at my Kinsman John Parkman’s. At Eve to Cambridge. Mother Champney but weak and feeble. Brother Hicks at work there.
1746 July 2 (Wednesday). At Commencement. Along with the Governor were Admiral Warrin112 and Sir William Peperell. Every Body rejoic’d at the refreshing News of the Defeat of the Rebels in Scotland, and the Taking the young Pretender Prisoner. P.M. the Joyfull News Confirm’d by another vessell with Duplicates of the Letters lately receiv’d by the Governor respecting a Squadron of English Men of Warr and Troops about to sail from England for Canada Expedition. Thus God mixes Mercy with Judgment, and makes us, though unworthy, to rejoice one Commencement after another. At Evening again heard something sorrowfull so Checker’d our State. A Lad was drown’d as he went into Water to Day. Brother Samuel Parkman lodg’d with me at Mother Champneys.
1746 July 3 (Thursday). My Brother rode with me to Boston. Some of us who are Heirs to our deceas’d Mothers Estate were inclin’d to be together to Day to prepare (as we Should be able) for a Settlement. But Brother Alexander was not ready with his account So that it was prevented. Receiv’d one of Mr. Edwards’s Books at Mr. Green’s113 for which I pay’d 28 Shillings Old Tenor. Din’d at Brother Parkmans. At Eve my sister Willard and I rode to Cambridge where we lodg’d.
1746 July 4 (Friday). My Sister rode Home with me. We Stopp’d at Mrs. Bekky Walkers, at Dr. Robys114 and at Wards Tavern. Got up somewhat after 2 p.m., they having din’d but little before. N.B. John Hicks junior and Mrs. Molly Whittemore here before us. They went to Sutton. After them came Dr. Breck and Mr. Colton115 Schoolmaster at Springfield, who at Eve proceeded to Worcester. N.B. Both Companys of Foot together this Afternoon. Lieutenant Hezekiah Ward beats up for Volunteers. Thomas Winchester trains p.m. N.B. Mr. Hastings116 of Shrewsbury and Mr. Sparhawk117 of Sutton in Company.
1746 July 5 (Saturday). [No entry.]
1746 July 6 (Sunday). On 1 Thess. 5.19 (repeated) a. and p.m. O that God would add his Special Blessings Especially to my own Soul, that I may never, especially not finally quench the holy Spirit! Mr. Jenison came in at Evening. I was exceedingly tir’d and had a poor night.
1746 July 7 (Monday). Lieutenant Hezekiah Ward, surveyor, came at my request to look up the Bounds of the Ministerial Meadow. Warn’d Mr. David Maynard junior, Eliezer Rice and James Maynard of it, and they each of them attended upon it. Heavy rains beat us off when we had Spent but about one Hour. We retir’d to Dinner: and met again p.m. At about 1/4 after 3 we finish’d the Lines of the 10 Acres, and with some Conversation upon the 3 Corner’d piece laid on upon the South Line towards the Spring of Water; and the northeast Line taking in Some of what Mr. Maynard has been wont to mow, we parted. A Storm of Thunder, Lightning and Rain arose before Night. N.B. Lieutenant ask’d me 20 shillings for his work. Without Saying much to him he took up with 14. Mr. Whittlesey118 of Wallingford and Mr. Williams (junior)119 of Longmeadow here whilst I was at the Meadow. Mr. Jenison keeps school again. Molly return’d Pamela volume I to Colonel Chandler by Mrs. Lucy Stearns.
1746 July 8 (Tuesday). Thomas etc. Hilling my Corn. A Boy from Mr. Wadsworth of Grafton to buy Cyder of me.
1746 July 9 (Wednesday). Captain Maynard comes for Thomas to go into the Service. Offers to send his own Young man a fortnight in his stead if he be willing to go then. To which he Consents if he can’t get anybody else. Old Mr. Axtel of Grafton dines here. Very Hot.
1746 July 10 (Thursday). Fast on account of the Expedition to Canada. I consider’d the Business of the Day in these Two Lights—First to humble ourselves under God’s Sore Judgment (viz. the Sword of War) and then his Message to us to Repent etc. Accordingly preach’d on Jonah 3.5 to 9. Secondly to beseech a great Mercy of God—such wisdom and Direction as was now needed, and success in so great an Enterprise as was now propos’d—but yet it was what we did not deserve, but might rather expect that God would be against us and therefore it concern’d us to look into our Case and endeavour to remove what might be a just Ground of Fear that God would not be with us nor prosper us—and therefore p.m. I preach’d on Ezek. 5.5 to 9.
1746 July 11 (Friday). Rain. Yet Mr. Prentice and Mr. Ebenezer Wadsworth of Grafton came with a Boy to drive their Team and had 6 Barrells of Cyder of me; and Considering how late in the Year, yet it was boil’d and the Barrells were fill’d up (which took another Barrell) they agreed to give me 25 Shillings per Barrell even though it was not of the Best.
1746 July 12 (Saturday). [No entry.]
1746 July 13 (Sunday). Sacrament. Preach’d on Luke 24.46. P.M. Repeated Sermon on Eph. 5.32. N.B. Mr. Jenison, Deacon Fay, Mrs. Whipple and her sister Lambson, and Mrs. Holloway din’d here.
1746 July 14 (Monday). Considering the Extremity among people on account of the Scarceness of men to Labour I did what I could abroad which yet was but very little for I was soon worry’d. My work was chiefly turning some Hay, and raking up and poling in Barley which lay greatly expos’d to a great storm of Rain which came up suddenly and pour’d down most heavily.
1746 July 15 (Tuesday). Had a poor night after my Labour. Lent my Mare to Mrs. Barns to send to her Father in Law for Help to Hill their Corn. I went to her House and to Neighbour Rogers’s. William, John and Jonathan (as well as Neighbour Barns) being out in the Service. Lieutenant Ward din’d here. He brought Molly the second volume of Pamela from Colonel Chandler. Towards Evening my wife and sister to Captain Maynards. My wife bought and paid for 20 lbs. of wool of Mr. Thomas Ward, at 8/6 per pound. I walk’d down there to see Old Christian as well as to wait on them back. N.B. Captain Maynard not in the best Humour.
1746 July 16 (Wednesday). Captain Maynard Came and said why he was ruffl’d yesterday—viz. He had another Warrant (or Order) to press 4 more men—and he believ’d Thomas Winchester must now go. I work’d several Hours a.m. in turning, opening and raking Hay. P.M. Catechetical Exercise. I repeated from Isa. 1.9.
1746 July 17 (Thursday). Thomas and Ebenezer went to the Meadow. I walk’d down to Captain Maynards to see what he had done in pressing Men. He told me he had press’d several men but that one of them had paid his money; and therefore he Sees no way but that Thomas must go. So difficult as it was with reference to Cutting my Meadow, I resign’d the Affair—return’d soon, din’d, and Sent Thomas Word to come Home. I hasten’d to Mrs. Joslins120 where I had appointed to Catechize. She was troubled and disappointed that I did not dine there. Thirteen Children was my whole Company—but I hope they will increase both in Numbers and Qualifications. Visited old Mr. Garfield121 who had been Sick—and return’d home a little after Sundown. Thomas came home at noon Time, and is gone to Grafton to prepare to go away to the Colonel’s tomorrow.
1746 July 18 (Friday). Ebenezer and Thomme are gone to the Meadow. A little before noon Thomas Winchester came preparing to sett out upon his Journey. It was very difficult as to my Business to part with him, but so it must be and I desire to committ myself to a Mercifull and faithfull God. It was also Somewhat difficult to part with one that had been of my Family so long and had endear’d himself to us by his good Conduct. The Lord go with him and give him to return to us again in Safety! I went after him to Captain Maynards and Saw him Still again at Mr. Chamberlins.
1746 July 19 (Saturday). Late in the forenoon came Elijah Warrin and afterwards Mr. Dunlop came and reap’d my Winter Rye, and bound it and got it in to the Barn. Exceeding good Rye for the bigness of the Piece. Blessed be God! The Girls also pull’d the Flax—which was more than ordinarily thin. Yet its more that I deserve. Ebenezer brought home one Load of Hay from the Meadow.
1746 July 20 (Sunday). The Troubles and Interruptions of this week past have been Very many, and prevented my preparing for the Sabbath. I repeated both parts of the Day what I had deliver’d heretofore. A.M. on Zech. 12.8.9. P.M. on Gen. 17.25.
1746 July 21 (Monday). Mr. Ebenezer Chamberlins Wife here with a present of String Beans. My Sons at the Meadow to Day. I went over to Mr. Whipples who informs me that the Petition of the Select Men pass’d in the Lower House but was not granted in the Upper, which is directly Contrary to the State of Things heretofore: the Board being ready to grant and the House not. As he was going down this Eve I deliver’d him a Paper which I directed to him for his own Reading.
1746 July 22 (Tuesday). My Interruption great by Cattle breaking into my Corn. Ebenezer and Thomme at Meadow. Read four Necessary Cases of Conscience of daily use by Mr. Thomas Shepherd,122 in a Letter to a Friend of his—with a Discourse of that Friends added—viz. R. H. [blank], which the Lord make Spiritually useful to me! Finish’d the second Volume of Pamela. See some Remarks I would draw up, on this Latter Piece.
1746 July 23 (Wednesday). Look’d very likely for Rain, but there was no more than a Sprinkling. Ebenezer and Thomme to the Meadow. Ebenezer brought home one Load of Hay a.m. Very Hot Season. Deacon Keyes p.m. One of my Oxen very troublesome in breaking in upon the Corn.
1746 July 24 (Thursday). Ebenezer cutt off his Hair. He and his Brother to the Meadow. P.M. Rain, Thunder and rain till night. At Eve Captain Maynard here.
1746 July 25 (Friday). Rain. At length it clear’d off and instead of Ebenezers going to work for Elijah Warrin at his Fathers, I was oblig’d (though Friday) to go over myself to Mr. Warrins to begg his Patience with regard to our helping him this week for his sons reaping, who was ready to oblige me. Was also at Deacon Newtons as I return’d home.
1746 July 26 (Saturday). Various Incumbrances and Avocations so that I could Study but little.
1746 July 27 (Sunday). On Micah 6.2. P.M. on Luke 19.9. This latter Sermon, though I have deliver’d it at several private Houses (Mr. James Fays and Mr. Matthias Rice’s) Yet I think I never have in Public till now.
1746 July 28 (Monday). [No entry.]
1746 July 29 (Tuesday). I Visited Mr. Tenney who is Settled with us in the room of Mr. Jedidiah How. Proceeded up to Mr. Daniel Warrins to get him to reap—but in Vain. Rode up to Mr. Cushings where was Mr. Stevens (who preaches at Worcester) but Mr. Cushing not at Home. I went to Serjeant Taylors to Speak with Mr. Parker the Shooemaker. At Mr. Robert Keys’s to have my Mare Shod. Din’d at Home. At Eve was at Mr. Amsdens to get Reapers.
1746 July 30 (Wednesday). Morn Clouds gather, yet afterwards clear’d off—no reaping—but my Sons at the Meadow. Ebenezer Early to Meadow with the Team—2 Loads of Hay.
1746 July 31 (Thursday). Morn much as yesterday, no reaper, yet the Day prov’d fit. My Sons to the Meadow. This Day I thought I would even go to the Meadow to see what they did there, and towards night I did so.
1746 August 1 (Friday). Isaac Amsden and Jonathan Devereux (the latter Sent by Captain Maynard) reap’d a.m. but the Rain came upon them and beat them off for this Day.
1746 August 2 (Saturday). Bright good Day. The Rye Cutt yesterday to be turn’d and taken up. Considerable Hay lies in swarth at the Meadow—and what to be reap’d So that I have no little Care upon me to interrupt me though I can do none of the Labour. Cattle and Hoggs often breaking in. How many Times my Soul is oppress’d in this manner!
1746 August 3 (Sunday). A.M. on Micah 6.2. P.M. on Ps. 145.17, and under this Text us’d Collections from Mr. Charnock,123 made Some years agoe; and in the remainder of the Exercise repeated Several passages from sermon on Gen. 18.25, page 7 to 12.
1746 August 4 (Monday). Sister and I rode to old Mr. Whipples. My wife p.m. to Deacon Newtons to get her Side saddle mended against her journey to New Haven. My Boys mowed in my low Ground at Home. Several Women here while my wife was gone, viz. Mrs. Dowsing, Mrs. How, Mrs. Mercy Chamberlin.
1746 August 5 (Tuesday). P.M. rode over to Mr. Martyn’s—the morning being Cloudy—but neither Mr. Martyn nor his wife at Home. Their Daughter said they were gone to Mr. Matthias Rice’s—upon which I went there to meet with them but in vain, they were not there. Therefore I return’d home without seeing either of them.
1746 August 6 (Wednesday). Rainy Morning. Thunder at a Distance. P.M. Clear’d up and I went to Deacon Newton’s, Serjeant Warrins and Merchant Rice’s.
1746 August 7 (Thursday). Foul weather Still in the Forenoon as it has been every Day for some Time and when breaking away a little, yet showers following the Shines to Spoil our haying. Somewhat Engag’d in my preparations for the Sabbath.
1746 August 8 (Friday). The fairest Day that has been a great while. Ebenezer and Thomme rak’d in the low Grounds at Home. I gave them a Short Spell in the Afternoon myself. The sun very hot so that I could not stand it long.
1746 August 9 (Saturday). Mr. Chamberlin help’d Ebenezer get home a Load of Hay from the Meadow, and Ebenezer him a Load from his. P.M. Abraham Batchellor and Noah How mow’d for me in my Meadow. Ebenezer and Thomme a Load in from the Low Ground at Home. Thunder Storm arose partly over us and the Lightning very terrible, but bore away to North East and East.
1746 August 10 (Sunday). On Habak. 3.17.18, and p.m. Repeated from Ps. 145.17, latter part of Sermon on Gen. 18.25, from page 12 to 18. Mr. Jenison din’d here. N.B. Mr. Thaddeus Gale came to me and acquainted me with the wonderfull Mercy and Goodness of God in preserving him when Struck down by the Lightning yesterday. It pass’d under him and plough’d the Ground for more than a Rod, yet was he unhurt.
1746 August 11 (Monday). Ebenezer to the Meadow—Thomme at Home. Rode to Mr. Cooks, Captain Warrins, and then visited Mr. Amsdens124 Family, So marvellously preserv’d last Saturday in Time of most awful Thunder and Lightning. The Effect very noticeable—a Furrow in the Ground of 30 feet—the Boards of their Bee House Shiver’d and plough’d—one Hive Split—Two of the Posts of the Bee House Splitt also—one of them from Top to Bottom etc. May God sanctifie his providence to them! May we all Truly Fear this Great Omnipotent Being and be ever ready for His Will. Mr. Martyn and his Daughter here p.m. N.B. our Conversation about the Ministerial Rights, he told me that he was not willing to make a formal Quit Claim, because he fear’d it would displease his mother and bring upon him the Odium of his Friends in his precinct; but that I might rest Easy for that he Should never Disturb me in the Improvement of them but we spoke especially with regard to the Meadow.
1746 August 12 (Tuesday). A great Frost last Night. My Sons to the Meadow. They spent part of the Day in Clearing a Cart way for the Hay in the upper end of the Meadow.
1746 August 13 (Wednesday). Ebenezer to the Meadow a.m.—mow’d p.m. Some Swamp Grass, had of Mr. Eliezer Rice, and Edwards Whipple was so good as to mow with him gratis. And at Eve he brought home the Eighth Load out of the Meadow, but came home, to my grief much too late. Thomme helped Thomas Rogers p.m.
1746 August 14 (Thursday). Thanksgiving on account of the Suppression of the Rebellion in Scotland. May God prepare our Hearts! Honourable Colonel Chandler coming from Boston and bound for Worcester came in the morning—was at meeting with us and din’d with me. I preach’d on Ps. 132.16. May God accept our Offering! and bless His Holy Word to His People! N.B. Having Sung 100th Psalm Tune and Com’t Tune, and not willing to Sing either of them again, I propos’d and Set 100 New, or Anthem. Colonel towards Eve went to Worcester. News of the King of Spains Death.
1746 August 15 (Friday). Cloudy a.m.—but not raining to hinder, Ebenezer to the Meadow. More sorrowfull News from No. 4 that besides 2 men Shot by the Indians, one at No. 4 another at Northfield our Troopers Horses most of them kill’d. Mrs. Caruth and her son here and din’d with us: Mrs. Hayward125 and Mrs. Billings,126 all of them want their Dismissions from our Church. Towards Evening with Joy (viz. Mr. Ebenezer Phillips of Southborough) I saw a Number of our Westborough Troopers return from No. 4—but on foot, their Horses being of them that were lost in the late Encounter. They handed me a paper containing an Account of Several Particulars—which I Soon copy’d—and afterwards Sent Mr. Kneeland.127
1746 August 16 (Saturday). Ebenezer and Thomme again to the Meadow, and brought home a Load of Swamp Hay which I have of Mr. Eliezer Rice.
1746 August 17 (Sunday). On Consideration of the Singular Mercy and Goodness of God to Such a Number of my nearest Neighbours, in Sparing them in the late Engagement against the Indians at No. 4, and not having been able seasonably to finish my propos’d preparations I repeat’d a. and p.m. Sermon on Ps. 68.20. The widow Woods din’d with us. N.B. Neighbour How and his son Daniel Sick of Fever and Flux.
1746 August 18 (Monday). Mr. Dowsing here in the Morning. The Boys to the Meadow. I rode there myself but they rak’d up but little of the Hay before the Rain prevail’d, and they return’d. Was at Mr. James Maynards and at old Mr. Whipples in the Rain.
1746 August 19 (Tuesday). A very rainy Time. Yet Mr. Cushing and Morse being come I rode to the Meeting of the Ministers at Southborough. But there were no more than Two come Besides—Messrs. Barrett and Smith. N.B. I intimated that we had been too Partial in the late Times; particularly against Mr. Whitefield—this Somewhat rais’d Mr. Barrett and Mr. Smith. This produc’d a Challenge to me to show if I were able any one Instance—with Impatience they heard me read an Extract from Bishop Halls Meditations and Vows,128 wherein he calls an Evil Man half a Beast and half a Devil, page 35 Folio Edition. N.B. Mr. Morse ask’d advice touching their Ministerial Lands—viz. what was his Duty now that his precinct had seiz’d upon them and sold them. I ask’d their Advice also, respecting the Dismission of our North-precinct sisters who had been delinquent, and some of them frequently absent from the Communion but not Sent their requests to have their Relation transferr’d to the Second Church. N.B. Mr. Smith Concio from John 8.12.
1746 August 20 (Wednesday). Mr. Loring came. Mr. Morse preach’d on Ps. 144.15. N.B. Mr. Loring has lately been at Worcester and convers’d freely with New-Light People and he is wondrous Charitable respecting them, and in his Trial fears that under the Notion of New-Light all true Religion is in Danger of being exploded—An Enigma of the Devil! says he.
1746 August 21 (Thursday). Mr. Martyn din’d with me and preach’d my Lecture on Ps. 63.8—an Excellent Discourse! I pray God to bless it to me and all that heard it. I stopp’d the Church after Lecture and obtain’d a Vote for the Dismission of 12 North-side sisters. N.B. Mr. Wheeler, Daniel Hardy and David Maynard junior were against it and some others did not Vote for it.
1746 August 22 (Friday). Visited Mr. Cooks and Barns’s Familys, and William Rogers who are ill of Fever and Flux.
1746 August 23 (Saturday). Ebenezer brought home about 7 Cocks of Hay from the Meadow, which was all that was worth bringing since the Storm—the Rest lying out in swarth—and ‘its grown too late to cut any of the North-side of the Brook, the Grass is so dead. So that we now finish at the Meadow for this Year.
1746 August 24 (Sunday). Sacrament. I preach’d a.m. on Luke 24.46. P.M. on Habac. 3.17.18. Mr. Benjamin Rugg of Northfield din’d with us. Captain Fay absent from Dinner. P.M. Mrs. Whitney cry’d out in the middst of the sermon. I pray’d her to be as compos’d as possible; and she was not long a Disturbance. At the Evening I was at the Funeral of a Child of Mr. Cook (his Lydia) which dy’d of the Fever and Flux. This Distemper begins to Spread among us; one of Mr. Barns’s Children also is Dead. The Lord prepare His People for His holy Will!
1746 August 25 (Monday). My wife and son Ebenezer undertake their Journey to New-Haven. Ebenezer setts out presently after Dinner to get some Things in order at Mr. Parkers in Shrewsbury, but my wife tarrys a while, till I go to the Burial of Mr. Barns’s Child which is one of his Twins:—and behold the other Twin is also deceas’d, and they bury both in one Coffin! Mrs. Barns is also ill and another Child. Mr. Cook and Several of his Children are sick. Some other Familys are visited. May God be mercifull to us in a Day of Such Distress! As to my wife, she set out after 3 o’Clock and propos’d to lodge at Worcester tonight; Dr. Breck and his Wife to be Company as far as Mr. Devotions in Windham. May they have a prosperous Journey by the will of God! N.B. Abraham Batchellor help [sic] Thomme get up a Load of Hay from the Swamp, which was the Finishing Load.
1746 August 26 (Tuesday). Catechetical Exercise. I deliver’d the latter part of the sermon on Isa. 1.9. Am greatly concern’d for my poor Neighbours who are sorely afflicted. Another of Mr. Cooks Children dyes—his little Sarah of about [blank] years.
1746 August 27 (Wednesday). Went to the Funeral of Mr. Cooks little Daughter; and such was the will of God his little son Solomon is dead also! Deacon Newton and some others seem desirous to have ‘em both bury’d to Day, though the latter dy’d but this morning. It was, however, deferr’d till tomorrow when they Saw that I was not free to Countenance it. It might soon have caus’d evil Report of Mr. Cook that he Should so soon hurry his Children into the Grave, as if having many of them and being an odd man he was afraid they should come to life again. I visited Mr. Barns’s, as I have been also at Neighbour Rogers’s, where there are Two Children sick; and Neighbour Hows, where most of them are out of Case: but especially their grandson Jonathan. N.B. Last night there was a Third Frost, and in Some places more destructive than the preceeding. N.B. Deacon Moore129 of Worcester din’d with me. He had been to Mr. Stone to see whether he could not administer the Lords Supper to them but he is design’d for Harwich.
1746 August 28 (Thursday). A Rainy Day, yet in the Rain I went on Foot to Mr. Cooks little Solomon’s Funeral: having Catechiz’d the Boys at Meeting House a.m. No Girls p.m. it was So Wet and stormy. Captain Warrins Young Child (I hear) very bad.
1746 August 29 (Friday). A very Wet stormy Day again. This Day was appoint’d for a Fast at the Widow Rice’s at Hopkinton on account of her youngest son, Samuel Whood, who has a grievous sore in the lower part of his Back, has lain long and is thought to be consuming away. Mr. Barrett has sent also to Mr. Stone to assist him with me. I walk’d to Mr. Williams’s afternoon. He had offer’d me his Horse to go to the Fast. I rode over. Mr. Stone in his last prayer of the former Exercise. Mr. Barrett was not return’d from Boston. I carry’d on the Latter Exercise: preach’d on Isa. 38.2.3. The poor young man very grievously afflicted, and in a Dangerous Condition. The Lord accept our Offering! I return’d at Eve to my Family.
1746 August 30 (Saturday). At the Funeral of Captain Warrins youngest Child. My Daughter Molly ill and full of pain. Ever since Wednesday Night. She seems to have the Same Distemper with my Neighbours. N.B. I was at Neighbour Ebenezer Maynards in the morning and pray’d with his wife who is Sick also. Neighbour Rogers’s Betty dy’d last night.
1746 August 31 (Sunday). Could not prepare my Discourse design’d for to day, by means of my many Hindrances all the Week long. Preach’d on Rev. 6.8 a.m. without any material Alteration except a few Passages omitted, respecting the Distemper. P.M. On Eph. 5.6. A great deal of the Beginning without more writing than a few broken Hints; the body of the sermon was from Page 19 to 28 of sermon on Eph. 2.3, latter part. O that God might sett home on the Hearts of all, especially on Children those fervence Exercises! Mr. Jenison din’d with me. At noon the Church was Stopp’d to lay before them the Consideration of a Day of Fasting and Prayer in this gloomy Time. They freely and readily came into it and seem’d glad of it. A Vote pass’d and Thursday next (by Divine Leave) appointed herefor. After sermon p.m. I recommended the Same to the Congregation and published the Church’s Vote and Purpose. And O that God would please to prepare all our Hearts thereunto! At Eve I attended upon the Funeral of Neighbour John Rogers’s Daughter Betty. Rainy Evening. N.B. Ebenezer Maynard went to Dr. Gott for his wife and brought physick for Molly which she took.
1746 September 1 (Monday). Wrote a Letter at the fervent Desire of his Wife to Mr. John Rogers (now a soldier at or near Winchester) to inform of the distress of his Family and the Death of his Child Betty, and the sickness of little Persis. I wrote also a Number of Letters to Neighbouring Ministers to desire their Assistance at the propos’d Fast. Lieutenant Tainter here. Kill’d my old Ram. Molly took another part of her purge, and I hope she is better. Deo Soli Laus! A long Time of Foul Weather. Tis not a little dull without my Dear Consort—but how is it with them who part for 5 nay 10 Times so long? How lonely soever I am, yet how happy is She in the Embraces of her dear Pierpoint? She has so many articles to reveal and to hear that She can have little Leisure to think of what she has left behind. But how Ardent and United were we this Day Nine Year ago! when our Nuptials were Celebrated at Mr. Pierpoints at Boston. The Lord has pleas’d to overlook the many miscarriages and Defects which we have been chargeable with since, especially my own! and make us Mutually Blessings, and Helps to the Kin of God! O how soon the Time will come when there will be neither marrying nor giving in Marriage, but the Saints shall be as the Angels of God!
1746 September 2 (Tuesday). Very Rainy the greatest part of the Day. Clear’d off late p.m. Mr. Daniel Maynard of Marlborough informs me that Captain Moses Rice is gone down the Road from Boston, a post from Deerfield to inform that Hoosuck (or Massachusetts Fort) was lately Burnt and Destroyed by the Indians.
1746 September 3 (Wednesday). Visited Mr. Hows130 Family again, they being all ill. Their son Benjamin also is taken. Was at the Funeral of another of Mr. Barns’s Children and visited Mr. Cooks Family. There heard of Madam Shirley’s131 Death, a great Loss to our Province because of her influence with the Duke of New Castle.
1746 September 4 (Thursday). This Day was observ’d by us in this Parish as a Time of Solemn Humilliation Fasting and Prayer on account of the great Mortality among us. I Sent to all the Neighbouring Ministers, but Mr. Barrett and Mr. Stone only came. Mr. Martyn had appointed a Lecture on this Very Day, and had engag’d Mr. Cushing to preach it. A.M. I pray’d and Mr. Stone preach’d on Heb. 3.7.8. P.M. Mr. Barrett both pray’d and preach’d: his Text, Ps. 37.2. A Considerable assembly. Some Number of Strangers. O that God would accept our Offering and answer our fervent Supplications—that He would pardon our Defects and grant an abiding Effect of his Word upon us! May our Souls be heal’d, the Hand of God sanctify’d and when it Shall be best, the Affliction removed! May this Day be Some Suitable Preparatory for the Special Work before me tomorrow also—the Lord give Me wisdom and Instruction!
1746 September 5 (Friday). Vide Natalitia. P.M. I visited both Family of Hows, widow Tomlins132 Grand Daughter (Mercy Wait) who is sick, and Mr. John Chamberlins son John in a Dangerous Condition.
1746 September 6 (Saturday). Captain Winchesters Troop return from No. 4. Nathan Maynard help’d with the Women and Children. Thomme mended up the Partition Fence against the North lower orchard.
1746 September 7 (Sunday). On Ps. 90.5.7. May God give an Effectual Blessing to these Exercises that both old and young may receive Saving Good and Benefit thereby.
1746 September 8 (Monday). Visited divers Sick. Neighbour Tomlin133 came and desir’d me to go to Mr. Chamberlins to See his little son who was near his End, they fear’d. I went, but he had gasp’d. I minister’d to them as I was able, in Exhorting etc. Pray’d with them and proceeded in my Visit to Meeting with Messrs. Howe. At Eve Eli Forbush borrow’d Tully’s Orations—and having heard that Mr. Barns has lost their Fourth and last Child, I improv’d Eli to go to Mr. Barns and acquaint them that Mr. Chamberlin had fix’d the Time for his Son’s Funeral to be (God Willing) tomorrow at 2 o’Clock; and that therefore they must avoid appointing their Child’s to be at the Same Time.
1746 September 9 (Tuesday). I expected word from Mr. Barns’s but none came. I attended the Funeral at Mr. Chamberlins. N.B. Dr. Smith there, their Daughter Betty being ill. He brought Ebenezers Hatt from Mr. Cushings.134 N.B. Mr. Winchester a Letter from Joshua Winchester a Soldier at Deerfield, who informs that Thomas is not well—is posted at Pelham Fort. The Lord graciously preserve him and defend him!
1746 September 10 (Wednesday). At Eve I visited Mr. Barns and his wife, whose House lately a place of great Joy and Life, is now become a solitude and a Desert. Mr. Jenison pray’d at their Child’s Funeral yesterday.
1746 September 11 (Thursday). Captain Maynard here to inform me from Dr. Breck that his Sister and my son were well last Friday was Sennight at Hartford: and he tells me he Saw a Copy of a Letter Sign’d by Mr. John Norton late preacher at Hoosuck Fort135 which informs that the French and Indians besieg’d their fort, slew Thomas Knowlton and captivated all the rest. Read the account of Canada in six Chapters with an appendix lately published. Thomme by the help of Nathan Maynard made Cyder. One of my Oxen still very mischievous.
1746 September 12 (Friday). Neighbour Edwards Whipple helped Thomme bring Home Two Barrells of Cyder. Mornings have been foggy and some Days of late misty—but yesterday and to Day pleasant sunshine. Hear of Several Deaths in our North Precinct, viz. Mr. Jacob Rice136 has bury’d one—and now Mr. Matthias Rice’s little Foster son which they Set their Hearts much upon. Receiv’d (per Hand of Mr. Ebenezer Johnson of Southborough) a Letter from my Wife, when She was at [illegible], brought by Dr. Brown.
1746 September 13 (Saturday). Wrote a Letter to my Wife but had no Opportunity to Send it. My sister is so indispos’d that She is afraid She is going to have a Distemper.
1746 September 14 (Sunday). On Habac. 3.17.18 and p.m. repeated sermon on Mat. 10.29.30. Mr. Jenison and Mr. Dunlop din’d here. N.B. A Letter from my Wife (per Hand of Mr. Daniel Forbush137) Dated at New Haven. Most truely welcome. I grow not a little uneasy at their Absence. God be pleas’d to protect both her and my son and return them in Safety! Dull weather now and then Showers.
1746 September 15 (Monday). Mr. Tainter here to see my Sister and invited my Sister to spend a few Days at their House. Mrs. Fay (Captain’s Wife) here, with a large Present, viz. a Cheese, 3 pounds Butter and Two Considerable pieces of Salt Pork. Visited Neighbour Chamberlin’s Daughter Betty. Had Mr. Tomlins Mare to go to Mr. Eleazer Bellows to see his Daughter Forbush138 in her great Trouble by her Husbands Captivity and sickness of her Child.
1746 September 16 (Tuesday). Disappointed of Lieutenant Forbush’s Horse by his being chose Jury man yesterday, I was at some Trouble to get another, to go up the Road and meet my wife. Mr. Barns lent me his. But Lieutenant Tainter came over with his Chaise to convey my sister to his House and I was oblig’d to accompany them and dine there. After dinner I rode up to Shrewsbury designing to go to Dr. Brecks, with expectation of meeting my wife there; but she had come to Worcester last night (from Springfield) and was now so forward as almost to Captain Hows139 in Shrewsbury. I met them with much pleasure and satisfaction, for they had had the Favour of Health and success through their whole Journey. Blessed be God! At Mr. Bezaleel Eagers earnest Entreaty we turn’d in there to see his sick Children. One of them was near her End. I pray’d with them and commended them to the Divine Mercy.
1746 September 17 (Wednesday). A very Rainy Day all Day. Reckon’d with Nathan Maynard for his Mare which my wife had in her Journey and paid him 40 shillings old Tenor.
1746 September 18 (Thursday). Fast at Mr. Jacob Gibbs’s in Hopkinton: after visiting Several sick Familys (Mr. Chamberlins, Captain Maynards, Mr. Pratts and Mr. Jonah Warrins) I rode over to those Exercises. Mrs. Gibbs lyes in a miserable Condition by a Cancer in her Breast. Mr. Barrett began with Prayer. Mr. Prentice140 of Holliston preach’d on Mark 7.37. He hath done all Things Well. P.M. I pray’d and preach’d on Phil. 1.21. And O that God would pardon our Defects and accept our Offerrings through Jesus Christ and have Mercy upon his Handmaid for his Name’s Sake. As I return’d I found that one of Mr. Warrins Children141 was dead; and the other which was sick, growing worse. The Lord Sanctifie his holy Hand to my afflicted Neighbours and to all of us, for our great awakening; and prepare us for his holy Will!
1746 September 19 (Friday). Took up our old Hive of Bees which was pritty well Honey’d.
1746 September 20 (Saturday). [No entry.]
1746 September 21 (Sunday). I preach’d on Heb. 12.24, and on Acts 9.6. Mr. Jenison din’d with us. O that God would make his holy word Effectual for our Saving Good. Mr. Chamberlin has lost his other son.
1746 September 22 (Monday). I understand that the Sickness is so sore and grievous on t’other side of the Town that three lie dead in one House (Timothy Fay’s) and his Brother Silas has lost another. Mr. Martyn here to desire me to attend a Fast in their Precinct next Thursday. At Mr. Chamberlin’s sons funeral. N.B. There are 5 Funerals this Day in Town. God be Mercifull to us miserable Sinners and prepare us for what is yet to be laid upon us! Mr. Whipple here at Evening. We talk’d of the Brest Squadron—and I Said to him, No Doubt but One Month will bring about great overturnings. N.B. Lieutenant Thomas Forbush here, and angry that his son Samuel of Upton and his wife could not be admitted to the privilege of Baptism for their Child. Rakes up old Things in his Fathers Days, to my Sorrow, and will have it that I have pick’d his son out, etc., whereas I have endeavour’d to do nothing by Partiality. But the Lord Sanctifie this Trouble to me!
1746 September 23 (Tuesday). Mr. Benjamin Eager, Colonel Nahum Wards Messenger, comes Express amongst us and tells me that a French Fleet were yesterday within half a Days Sail of the Light House, and a Post came to the Colonel for 500 Men out of this Regiment—and I hear that 36 are requir’d out of this Company. We were going to plough with Lieutenant Forbush’s Cattle but I sent them back again: and Ebenezer to Sutton. Bekky142 borrow’d an Horse and went to Sutton also. It is a Day of great Trouble and Distress in all likelihood at Boston; and God only knows how Soon it may be among our Selves. May we all be suitably Prepar’d for the Divine Will in all Things! P.M. Catechetical Exercise, but 13 present. I read to ‘em sermon on Hos. 4.12. At Eve I was very faint, and my feverishness greatly increas’d—but I bestir’d myself what I could. Took up an Hive of Bees. Was as chearfull as I could in Conversation. Lieutenant Aaron Forbush from Brookfield, Neighbor Ebenezer Maynard, here. But my illness increas’d. I had no stomach, nor much rest all night—but beg Grace to enable me to repose my Self in God.
1746 September 24 (Wednesday). Not So ill to Day as I fear’d from So bad a Night. Blessed be God! Our Forces mov’d down to Wards at Marlborough. Wrote to my Brethren by Mr. James Maynard. I walk’d over to the South Road—visited Ensign Newton and others in the Neighbourhood. N.B. Mr. Prentice rides with Captain Willard before Grafton Company, going to Boston. Towards Evening Reverend Gay of Suffield and his Wife, and Mr. Caleb Hitchcock at the Gate, but would not tarry with me. Ebenezer return’d from Sutton.
1746 September 25 (Thursday). Sent Ebenezer to Boston. Fast in the North Precinct. But before I went over I visited little Joel Maynard (son of Ebenezer) and pray’d with him being dangerously sick. At the Fast Mr. Martyn pray’d and Mr. Cushing preach’d on Isa. 26.9. P.M. Mr. Morse143 pray’d and I preach’d on Rev. 6.8. O that God would hear in Heaven his dwelling place, and when he hears forgive, Pity, and appear for his people not only on account of the Sickness but the fear’d Invasion! N.B. Sister Willard rode with me, and my Daughter rode with Mrs. Tomlin (widow) over to the Fast. At Eve Mr. Daniel Forbush here. Wrote by him to Brother Samuel Parkman to Secure Sister Willards Interest among them. Some Soldiers return from Boston.
1746 September 26 (Friday). Daily in Concern for our Friends at Boston. Half the Companys of Some Regiments dismiss’d return home.
1746 September 27 (Saturday). Little Joel Maynard ill and I visited him. At Eve Mr. Whipple came for me to go and see Mrs. Persis Rice (wife of Eliezer) who is ill of the Same Distemper (Fever and Flux) which is so Common among Children. At Eve also our Son Ebenezer return’d from Boston. Our Friends all well except sister Betty who is remov’d to Reading. The Town is very kind to the Soldiers. Several Small Vessells are sent out to see what Fleet it is that lies off, but they are not yet come back. So that they are wholly uncertain Still.
1746 September 28 (Sunday). In the Morning I rode over to Mr. Martyns, and he rode hither. I preach’d to the Second Precinct a.m. on Ezek. 5.5 to 9. P.M. on Rom. 6.13. N.B. Several Soldiers travelling back from Boston, being dismiss’d for the present and sundry of Westborough men, viz. Billings, Jacob Rice, Paul Newton, Mr. Ephraim Allen likewise. The 3 former at Meeting. Mr. Martyn on Mat. 10.28 and on Eccl. 7.1 latter Clause. Each return’d at Eve to our respective Familys.
1746 September 29 (Monday). Visited Mrs. Rice and Joel Maynard who ‘tis thought is dying. N.B. I had sent a Letter to Mr. Samuel Forbush of Upton that he night go otherwhere for Special Privileges since his Father was not well Satisfy’d with my Methods here; This brought him here to Day; but I Still Decline encouraging his coming here till there is some better Satisfaction. Mr. Whitney here and informs that Some Vessel is come in to Boston which certify that it is a French Fleet that was discov’d and that they are turn’d in to an Indian place not far from Annapolis. Mr. Martyn here p.m. Towards Eve I was at Neighbour Eliezer Rice’s who brought up the News—he Confirms it, and that the people of Boston are very courteous to soldiers.
1746 September 30 (Tuesday). At Joel Maynards funeral. N.B. Sister Breck144 from Worcester, here with Mr. Golding. My wife rode with sister Breck to Marlborough.
1746 October 1 (Wednesday). Sent for to Mrs. Rice who grows very bad. N.B. her, and her Husbands Mutual Forgiveness. N.B. her declaring how Easy and comfortable is her View of Departing till I put Some Close Questions about her Faith, Love to God etc. Upon which she seem’d to be much damp’d and Confus’d: Yet maintain’d a strong Hope. Rain; yet Mr. Cushing came and preach’d my Lecture on John 3.16. Wife and Sister Breck return’d from Marlborough in the Rain and did not go to Meeting. Sister Breck tarry’d all night.
1746 October 2 (Thursday). Rainy. After Dinner (it holding up) Sister Breck setts out for Worcester, and Ebenezer waits on her as far as Mr. Cushings. Young Solomon Prentice here with a Team to bring the Barells which they borrow’d of me. Stormy Night.
1746 October 3 (Friday). Bright Morning: but the Day prov’d very Windy. Solomon Prentice went home with his Team. P.M. Mr. Abner Newton here and acquaints me that his Sister Rice is yet alive, though as they apprehend, is dying, and desires Me to visit her once More. I went—on my way saw several of our Soldiers return’d, who Say that all Colonel Chandlers and Colonel Wards Regiments are dismiss’d. As to Mrs. Rice I found her in the Valley of the Shadow of Death, and as she said freely, ready and willing to Depart. She gave her Testimony to the usefulness and Expediency of our attending upon Divine Ordinances. Said that God had graciously manifested his Mercy to her since she came to that Bed. I mix’d some Caution with my Consolation notwithstanding. But she fully expected Soon to be remov’d to Glory. After Prayer I gave Exhortation to all present—and particularly to the Children. Return’d sometime before sundown.
1746 October 4 (Saturday). Sent Lieutenant Thomas Forbush a Letter respecting his unseasonable Disquietments with me with Reference to his son Samuel of Upton.
1746 October 5 (Sunday). Sacrament. Preach’d on Rom. 8.31, a. and p.m. Deacon Fay and Mrs. Joslyn din’d here. I hope this Day was not in vain. Mrs. Rice is yet alive. N.B. Mr. James Fay and his wife from Grafton here at Communion.
1746 October 6 (Monday). Mr. Nathaniel Trask145 who has preach’d at North Sutton din’d here. P.M. Asa Brigham and his wife here. Mrs. Rice was thought to be dying about Noon, but Reviv’d.
1746 October 7 (Tuesday). I visited a.m. Mrs. Rice who is Somewhat better. Two of their Children taken sick. Their little Thimme very ill: but is at his Uncle Seth’s. I rode to Mr. Whipples, Mr. James Maynards, Mr. Seth Rice’s, but he was not at home, his wife in great Trouble because of her Husbands Distractions: was at Ensign Rice’s—neither was he at home. I proceeded to Mr. Bellows whose wife was ill, and their Daughter Sarah Forbush’s Child. Visited also Mrs. Fay, Messrs. Green, Edwards Whipple whose Child is ill—and then hasten’d over to the southside. Din’d at Mr. Jonas Childs (from its Convenience to the School House) attended the Catechizing of above 50 (if I mistake not 55) Children of that part of the Town. Was at Mr. Daniel Forbush’s at Catechizing. N.B. Mr. Millers Company part of the way Home, for I turn’d away to Deacon Newtons.
1746 October 8 (Wednesday). The Weather much alter’d—a Cold Air like Winter. Was at Mr. Hows, Tomlins, Chamberlins and Captain Maynards a.m. At old Mr. Maynards p.m. Neighbour David and his Sister Hannah went to Boston at Eve by whom I sent to Mr. Greens for Mr. Edwards’s Books on Religious Affections which I so long ago subscrib’d for. Mr. Samuel Williams here at Evening. My Sons have pick’d up our Apples, gather’d the Beans, and this afternoon some of the Corn.
1746 October 9 (Thursday). Rain. Hear that Mrs. Persis Rice146 is Dead.
1746 October 10 (Friday). I was not well in the Early Morning So great Pains in my Bowels and working that I fear’d whether I should go out to Day; but I grew better, and though it was a Cold, Raw, Rainy Day, yet (it holding up at the Time of my going and being abroad) I went to Mrs. Rice’s Funeral, and visited Mr. Edwards Whipples Child. N.B. Christian, the Widow of Old George Misco, Indian, expir’d. Deacon Whittemore of Cambridge at Eve, and lodg’d here.
1746 October 11 (Saturday). Very Cold. It snow’d a Little yesterday, but last Night so as to cover the Roofs.
1746 October 12 (Sunday). I with my wife went to the Funeral of old Christian. She was bury’d in a very decent manner by Captain Maynard, from his house. Samuel Brigham Esquire, Edward Baker Esquire, Captain Timothy Brigham, Messrs. Jotham and Charles Brigham and many others (besides a Number of Indians) attended. She was carry’d to our South Burying Place. At Eve Mr. Edward Bass, Schoolmaster at Lancaster came to see us, my wife being a Relation. Bekky Hicks watch’d with Neighbour Edwards Whipple little Daughter which dy’d in the Night. Not being able by means of many Interruptions to finish my Preparations without much Difficulty, and hurrying what I wanted to take Some Time about, I threw them aside for the present and preach’d again my sermon on Job 22.21, a. and p.m. N.B. No Proclamation till I was going into the Pulpit p.m.
1746 October 13 (Monday). Mr. Bass, who had kept Sabbath with us, return’d to Lancaster, a Sober modest young gentleman, and I perceive is something observably Skill’d in the Hebrew. May God be pleas’d to make him a great Blessing in his Generation! P.M. was at the Funeral of Mr. Edwards Whipples Daughter. Visited his Brother Francis’ Daughter Abigail who is taken sick. We have observ’d that the Child bury’d to Day is the 24th that has died in Town since August 23, when Mr. Cook’s first (which dy’d) expir’d. Our Children Billy and Suse are somewhat indispos’d with Flux, but (through Divine Goodness) run about yet. Ebenezer made Cyder at Mr. Hows.147 At Eve had a Quarter of Beef from Mr. Jonah Warrin. Stormy and some snow.
1746 October 14 (Tuesday). Snow’d and Rain’d last Night, but this morning rains hard.
1746 October 15 (Wednesday). Mr. David Batherick’s Child bury’d. I attended upon it with my sister Willard. [This is the 25th since August 23.] In our way we call’d at Mr. Jonas Childs, and at Deacon Newtons. At Eve came Mr. Bacon148 of Ashuelot.
1746 October 16 (Thursday). Publick Fast on Occasion of the Distresses the Province is under by the War, and especially the Great French Squadron appearing in North America; the Hopes also we are in of an English Fleet for Help. Mr. Bacon preach’d all Day. A.M. on Ps. 50.15. P.M. on Zech. 7.5. O that God would hear in Heaven and answer and defer not for His own names sake!
1746 October 17 (Friday). Mr. Bacon left us for Wrentham. P.M. Visited Abigail Whipple and Hepzibah Rice. Ebenezer got home our Cyder, 7 Barells, from Mr. Hows Mill. N.B. We have made in all this Year something more than Nine Barrells. More than ordinary Cold and Raw Weather—very uncomfortable for people that labor abroad. My son gather’d some of the Corn.
1746 October 18 (Saturday). The Earth covered with Snow—a Stormy Day. Thomme Carry’d Barrells and Chairs to Mr. Whiteness—and brought Turnips from Mr. Pratts. N.B. Billy has a Bloody Flux, but helps about House.
1746 October 19 (Sunday). On Rom. 8.31 a. and p.m. the Entertainment’s I designed for the late Fast Day. May God accompany them with his Blessing! The Snow goes off. Billy about yet.
1746 October 20 (Monday). The Snow has wholly disappeared. A Very pleasant warm Day. My sons Carted Stones in the fore part of the Day, and then gathered Corn. Mr. Goss of Boston, and with him one Mr. Carter and a Lad here, journeying to Narragansett. Mr. Jonathan Burnap din’d here. Mr. Stone p.m. going to ministers meeting at Rutland.
1746 October 21 (Tuesday). Held a Catechetical Exercise on the Benefits of those that are Effectually Call’d, repeating in sermon on Eph. 3.8 from Page 17 to 24.
1746 October 22 (Wednesday). Ebenezer and Thomme cart Stones from the Settle field; p.m. Ebenezer Carted home 6 Barrells of Cyder from Mr. Whitneys, 5 of which I have of him and one (Gratis) from Mr. Jonas Child. I visited Abigail Whipple who is very ill of the Common Distemper. My little Billy is ill of the Same, yet runs about.
1746 October 23 (Thursday). Ebenezer fetch’d 4 1/2 Bushel Turnips from Mr. Hezekiah Pratts which with 1 1/2 receiv’d already was my 6 propos’d Stock of him (at 3/6 per Bushel) but he afterwards sent Me a Bag more which were his present to Me. P.M. my Sons gather’d the rest of the Corn. I rode to Shrewsbury upon Several Small Affairs, but perceiv’d that people were gone to Lecture (which I had heard nothing of) whereupon I Snatch’d the Opportunity and went also. Mr. Martyn preach’d on John 8.23. Those words—Ye are of this World. N.B. His Wife with him. We return’d to the parting of our Roads together. N.B. I was with Colonel Ward and Requested his Chair to wait on my sister Willard to Boston; who Consented to it without Difficulty.
1746 October 24 (Friday). Wondrous pleasant weather from Day to Day. As I last night had Some Discourse with Deacon Newton and Mr. Elisha Ward about my Circumstances with relation to the Town and this Precinct, so I had to Day with Captain Warrin. But I find no likelihood of a precinct meeting presently—unless I am my Self more Strenuous. N.B. Mr. Tinney was a work here in the Morning, mending the roof of my House.
1746 October 25 (Saturday). Still admirable Weather. My Sons harrow’d my Settle Field. Also We Cover’d up about 3 Bushel of Turnips and about a Dozen and half of Cabbages in a Vault prepar’d for that Purpose.
1746 October 26 (Sunday). On Tit. 2.12, those words, “So live soberly,” and repeat’d on p.m. the last part of sermon on Job 22.21. At Eve came Mr. Grindal Rawson149 a School Master and preacher at Worcester, who had preach’d at Southborough the preceding Day, and he lodg’d here.
1746 October 27 (Monday). Mr. Rawson went to Worcester. P.M. I visited old Ensign Newton and Mr. Abner Newtons Family, who are Sick of the Bloody Flux. The Ensign and a little Boy of 4 or 5 years very bad. I rode to Mr. Samuel Fays and to Mr. Grouts and Whitneys.
1746 October 28 (Tuesday). What Patience and Longsuffering of God are we call’d to Celebrate and magnifie Since we have been indulg’d now Two and Twenty Years in Church State and Relation. The Lords Name be prais’d with my whole Soul, and by all his people of this place! But may we be truely humbl’d for our Shamefull unprofitableness! And O that we might obtain the Quickening Grace of God that we may become More fruitfull and faithfull under our Sacred Bonds and Obligations and unspeakable Advantages! I endeavour’d to take some Notice of the Way—but alas with much Brokenness and Interruptions. Towards Eve Mr. Millen150 of Chauxit here. My Wife rode to Mr. Grouts. Ebenezer to Colonel Wards of Shrewsbury for his Chair. I walk’d at Eve to see Ensign Newton again, who seem’d a little reviv’d and Easy—was in at Deacon Newtons. May God fitt us all for sickness and Death!
1746 October 29 (Wednesday). Rode to Cambridge with sister Willard151 in Colonel Nahum Wards Chair. My Daughter Molly also on Mr. Tinneys Horse.
1746 October 30 (Thursday). Rode to Boston in the Morning. Sister Betty very ill. She was brought home from Lieutenant Williams’s (of Lynn End) last Saturday. Was much griev’d as were all her Friends to see her so much concern’d about her Daughter Eliza’s having her design’d Share of the Estate; and was in agony to have Elias to take his Pen and Ink and Sett down what Eliza should have. I din’d at Mrs. Keggells, and rode with her over to her Brother Bass’s at Dorchester. Return’d at Eve. Horse kept at Procters. Visited sister Betty, who had been yet more uneasy in the afternoon before a multitude of people in her Chamber, about her son Elias—but was now calmer. Methinks she apparently grows worse. I made opportunity to talk freely with her alone. She took it thankfully. Mr. Joseph White (her uncle) came to see her also and he talk’d in a savoury Manner. I Lodg’d with my Kinsman. Sent Mr. Tinneys Horse home with Mr. Phinehas Hardy.
1746 October 31 (Friday). Took my Final Leave of Sister Betty—being convinc’d that I should never see her again, for the Season of the Year obliges me to return home, and we know not but she may lye so several Days. Din’d at Brother Alexanders—and having dispatch’d my Business rode with Molly in the Same Chair I came down in, to Cambridge.
1746 November 1 (Saturday). As we were going to mount in order to return Home, my Kinsman Nathaniel Parkman152 came with Speed to acquaint me that Sister Betty dy’d this Morning. My Daughter and I Set out upon our Journey, fearing the weather might change and my Limbs be more affected. But upon second Thought we turn’d down the Road from Captain Wells’s. I return’d to Boston to my mourning distress’d Friends. May God Sanctify the Breach to us all, as to my dear Young Kinsfolk—Special may the Lord take them up! may they have wisdom to Conduct! may they live in Love and Peace! Captain White kindly ask’d me to put up my Chair into his House and my Mare into his Stable. Lodg’d with my Kinsman.
1746 November 2 (Sunday). Preach’d a.m. at New North on Luke 19.10. Mr. Webb153 p.m. on [blank]. Din’d at Mr. Eliots.154 At Eve I preach’d at my Brother Parkmans on Song 1.4.
1746 November 3 (Monday). At Eve at Mr. John Brecks were came Mr. William Owen and my Brother William. Brother and I went to Elder Cheevers’s—where was Mr. Wigglesworth155 of Ipswich Hamlet.
1746 November 4 (Tuesday). P.M. rode over the Neck with Captain Whites Lady in my Chair: and at Eve at Dr. Colman’s Lecture. Mr. Wigglesworh preach’d on Eccl. ult. ult. Din’d at Brother Williams. Lodg’d at Brother Samuels.
1746 November 5 (Wednesday). Din’d at Brother Alexanders. Weather exceeding various. After Dinner especially the Sun shone, but yet clouded up and rain’d toward Eve. Sister Betty Bury’d.
1746 November 6 (Thursday). My Horse has been kept till now at Captain Whites. An Exceeding Cold wind in the Morning, yet Molly and I set out in the Chair and rode home, having stop’d and been kindly refresh’d at Mr. Thomas Dana’s,156 Mr. Patersons157 and at Mr. Darlings.158 Got home well and found my Family well. Blessed be God! But in my Absence It has pleas’d God to take away Ensign Thomas Newton and his wife, and one of their Son Abners little sons of the Fever and Flux.
1746 November 7 (Friday). Snow, Cold, Blustering—and yet Sun shine. Sent Colonel Wards Chair Home by my son Ebenezer—who brought Monsieur Calmetts Dictionary159 volume I from Mr. Cushings. ‘Rody and Jonathan Devereux help’d my sons husk at Eve, but twas very Cold.
1746 November 8 (Saturday). Very Cold. Mr. Samuel Williams here—brought me the Return of the Deacons and Committee of the precinct concerning the Request of Captain Moses Rice of Deerfield.
1746 November 9 (Sunday). On Occasion of Ensign Newtons and my sisters Death I preach’d on Ps. 39.4 and p.m. on 10.3, but us’d the sermon on Ps. 119.59 from page 12.
1746 November 10 (Monday). Mr. Francis Whipples Daughter Lucy and son Nehemiah sick. I visited them. Lieutenant Tainter kill’d a Cow which Mr. Grout bought for me of Mr. Jonas Brigham for £16.10.0.
1746 November 11 (Tuesday). I rode to Grafton—din’d at Mr. Prentice’s—where was Mr. Thomas Harringtons wife of Waltham. Mr. Prentice and I walk’d to Mr. Joseph Batchellors—at Mr. Brooks160—at Mr. Winchesters.161 Visited old Mrs. Tabitha Fay162 who is taken very bad. At my own house and Barn Elizer Rice and 4 or 5 more are Husking, it being very moderate Weather.
1746 November 12 (Wednesday). Wrote by Lieutenant Tainter to Mr. Edwards to Northampton. Nurse Sherman din’d here. Captain Maynard here at Eve. We reckon’d and settl’d. Gave him a note to his brother James the Collector.
1746 November 13 (Thursday). A.M. I rode to Deacon Newtons. Visited old Mrs. Tabitha Fay. P.M. proceeded to Mr. Francis Whipples whose Family (a Number of them) is sick. Thence I went to Mr. James Maynards and to Ensign Rice’s. N.B. Mrs. Rice’s inveighing against Mr. Martyn; against his prayers at Ensign Newtons Funeral. She is greatly displeas’d with me for assisting in his Ordination. I rode up to Colonel Ward,163 who was too generous to ask anything for his Chair to Boston. Was also at Dr. Smiths164 as I return’d.
1746 November 14 (Friday). At Eve Mr. Noah Brooks165 of Grafton here—being in much perplexity and Difficulty not knowing what was his Duty respecting their approaching Sacrament. Since he and others had complain’d of Ezekiel Cole166 for his preaching and the Church had condemm’d him as disorderly, yet had lately voted him forgiveness if he would reform, notwithstanding they have had no Signs of his Repentence—nay have reason to fear he has had not Conviction of his offence.
1746 November 15 (Saturday). Great Storm of Rain. Strong Winds, and great Flood.
1746 November 16 (Sunday). On Ps. 39.4, and 84.1. Captain Warrins wife din’d here.
1746 November 17 (Monday). Monsieur Calmet engages me not a little.
1746 November 18 (Tuesday). At Mr. Whipples167—his son Nehemiah of about a Twelve month old dy’d. Pleasant moderate weather. Some of our Cattle have been hous’d but we are not yet ready for the Rest.
1746 November 19 (Wednesday). A great storm of Snow. Mr. Whipple’s Son was to be bury’d to Day but I could not attend upon it in Such Weather.
1746 November 20 (Thursday). Ebenezer and Thomme build a new Hoval at the East End of the Barn. The Cattle were all hous’d. Thomas Winchester is come from his station at Fort Pelham to visit his Friends.
1746 November 21 (Friday). Mr. Samuel Harrington here. I traded with him for one of his Hoggs, and am to give him 15 d. per pound (old Tenor).
1746 November 22 (Saturday). Captain Maynard here after a Tedious Journey with his Team to Boston. Deacon Forbush here about his son Eli. Abraham Batchellor my Team p.m.
1746 November 23 (Sunday). On Tit. 2.12, all Day. Mrs. Mary Steward and Mrs. Sarah Forbush (Phinehas’s wife) din’d here. Might it please God of his infinite Mercy to bring me off from a Life after the Flesh! that I might live according to the Rules of Christian Temperance in all Things!
1746 November 24 (Monday). The Boys thrash Wheat, which they find much Eaten by Vermin, besides that it was much Blasted. Sarah Henry here turning an old Black Coat of mine to make a Coat for Ebenezer. Mr. Jones of Western lodg’d here.
1746 November 25 (Tuesday). Mr. Jones to Western. My wife gone to Mr. Edwards Whipples wifes Labour. At Eve they had a son born. Eli Forbush wants to lodge here when the School comes into the Middle of the Town. Sarah Henry here.
1746 November 26 (Wednesday). Captain Daniel Ward of Worcester for Mr. Maccarty168 but he did not come. Rainy. Sarah Henry.
1746 November 27 (Thursday). Public Thanksgiving. I preach’d on Ps. 48.1.3.7.9.11. Disappointed of those whom we had design’d to dine with us—and had no Body but our own Folks. I would fain remember those who are in Affliction or are slenderly provided. For what we have receiv’d the Lord make us truely Thankfull, and of the Number of those Children of Judah who Spiritually rejoice in Gods Judgments! At Eve came Sir Williams from Marlborough and lodg’d here. N.B. He brought up Dr. Watts Sermon for me.
1746 November 28 (Friday). Sir Williams bought my Volume of the works of the author of the whole Duty of Man for 8£, and he had my Dr. Clark’s Letters to Mr. Dodwell169 for Dr. Watts Sermon. He return’d to Sudbury. Mr. Jenison came over from the Northside to keep School in the middle of the Town.
1746 November 29 (Saturday). Sarah Henry here again.
1746 November 30 (Sunday). Sacrament. Preach’d on 1 Pet. 1.18.19. N.B. Mr. Jension at Sermon but not at Communion. Deacon Fay and Mr. Kendall170 of Suffield din’d here. P.M. repeat’d Sermon on Ps. 119.106. O may the Blood of the Son of God be precious to me and Since we have again Sworn it, may God afford us Grace to Perform etc!
1746 December 1 (Monday). I Catechiz’d both a. and p.m. at the Meeting House. P.M. Mr. Daniel Forbush came with some Hearthstones and new laid my Kitchen Hearth. Mrs. Sarah Henry here. Mr. Jenison keeps at Mr. Barns’s and Eli lodges with him at Captain Forbush’s.
1746 December 2 (Tuesday). Mr. David Maynard and his Brother Ebenezer came and kill’d Two Hoggs for me. One weigh’d 232. The other 202. Mr. Harrington also brought a Hogg which I bought of him lately—which weigh’d 335. In all 769 pounds of Pork cutt and Salted up this Evening. N.B. Mr. Whitney here with Mr. Harrington. N.B. Mr. Cushing absent last Sabbath from his people by reason of the sickness of his son Jacob at College.
1746 December 3 (Wednesday). Very Cold. I rode by Mr. Thomas Goodenows (where I call’d) to Mr. Jesse Rice’s of Marlborough. Return’d to his mother171 Mr. Fenner on Conscience.172 Din’d at Mr. Smiths—he not at home. At Dr. Gotts reckon’d with him and paid all. N.B. Captain Brintnall173 and Lieutenant Cleveland174 at the Doctors. As I return’d home visited Mr. Jacob Amsden who has been very ill, and still confin’d. When I came home found Mr. Maccarty here from Worcester. N.B. A post went to the Governour to Day with Letters from Albany of Several of the Mohawks going to Quebec with Pretences of Friendship to the French but return’d with Scalps to Albany etc.
1746 December 4 (Thursday). Mr. Maccarty tarried and din’d with me and then return’d to Worcester. At Evening Elijah Warrin here, and (it raining and freezing) he lodg’d here.
1746 December 5 (Friday). Mr. Upham175 (of Sturbridge) and his Daughter here in their Journey downwards.
1746 December 6 (Saturday). [No entry.]
1746 December 7 (Sunday). On Tit. 2.12—to live Righteously. P.M. repeated on Rom. 8.6. Mr. Jenison and Mrs. Grow din’d here. At Night after Family Devotions read Mr. Edwards on Religious Affections.
1746 December 8 (Monday). Deacon Forbush here to ask me to go over to his son Solomon Woods there have been an odd Occurrence there, for when Mrs. Woods had lain in and got Joanna Fay from Southborough to Nurse her, on the Fourth Day the Nurse (an unmarried, Young Woman) falls into Travail and was deliver’d of a Child. Yesterday morning it dy’d—and they who were nearly Concern’d would now have me Visit her and be at the Funeral. I went accordingly—talk’d with the Girl who seem’d penitent but would not tell who was the Father of her Child. After Prayer I return’d to Lieutenant Tainters and thence to Captain Bakers. N.B. My wife rode with me as far as Captain Bakers and waited there till I came. We Supped there. N.B. Young Men’s Society met this Evening at old Mr. Maynards to settle their accounts etc.
1746 December 9 (Tuesday). Mr. Pratt and Neighbour Ebenezer Maynard kill’d an old large sow which weigh’d 267. Read Mr. Edwards on Religious Affections, and find him much Study’d in his subject.
1746 December 10 (Wednesday). Lieutenant Tainter had encourag’d me that he would take the Care of marketting the Pork (kill’d yesterday) if I send it to Boston by my son Thomme; we accordingly got ready. Ebenezer got the Mare shod at Mr. Cooks and went over to Lieutenants—acquainted him we had kill’d, and to know his Purpose; but it prov’d dull misty and Rainy Day, and it being a very heavy and difficult Load and Lieutenant not to go till late, together with diverse other Things which perplexed us, therefore we deferr’d it till another Day. N.B. Mr. Ebenezer Baker of Marlborough here and din’d with us. At Eve my Son was at old Mr. Maynards and Ebenezer Maynard offer’d to go to Boston with our Pork, though his Design was to trade with Nathan if he had been at home.
1746 December 11 (Thursday). Rainy yet. Neighbour Ebenezer came; we tackl’d and loaded, and he went off—but before noon he return’d—the Rain and bad road discourag’d him. He din’d with us but would take nothing for his Pains about the Pork. At Eve we Salted it up. N.B. Our Two first Hoggs weighed 232 and 202. Mr. Harringtons 335. This Sow weigh’d 261. In all that we Salted up 1030.
1746 December 12 (Friday). Exceeding Cold Morning. At Eve Thomas Winchester here. Lately return’d from his Station at Fort Pelham.
1746 December 13 (Saturday). Very Cold Day.
1746 December 14 (Sunday). Preach’d all Day upon Micah 6.8, those words—but to do justly—carrying on from thence the Same Subject which I have been lately on from Titus 2.12. Mr. Stratton176 of Waltham din’d here.
1746 December 15 (Monday). Precinct Meeting—partly to receive a Memorial from me which I sent—but they did not see Cause to do anything at all upon it.
1746 December 16 (Tuesday). Very Cold from Day to Day. Dr. Gott here. My sons thrashing. P.M. though Cold yet my wife and I rode over to see old Mrs. Whipple and tarried till Eve among the Whipples.
1746 December 17 (Wednesday). Ten Young Men Cutt wood. James Bradish (by his Proxy Mr. Daniel Hardy), Jonas Bradish, Noah and Daniel How, Benjamin Whipple, Meradach Devereux, Elijah Warrin (by his proxy his Brother Aaron), Nathan Maynard, Jonathan Bruce, and Silas Newton. P.M. I went over to Mr. Whipples to meet with the precinct Committee who were there except Mr. Abner Newton. There was also present Neighbour Benjamin How. I discours’d with them of my late Memorial which was Sent to the precinct last Monday. I ask’d Deacon Newton, and Mr. Whipple whether the Representation which I therein made of what they said to me when they came to my House the Evening after that Precinct Meeting (there referr’d to) was a just and true Representation? And they reply’d in Terms of Consent, that it was. I ask’d Captain Warrin and Mr. Williams also, who Said that they remember’d that being at the Said precinct Meeting they did perceive that That was the precinct Meeting, viz. that my Sallery Should be that Money which pass’d before the Soldier Money (in 1744) was made, which was according to Gold at 4.18 shillings per ounce—but I could not prevail with any of them to Sign any Line of Memorandum of it. When I got home young men all gone home.
1746 December 18 (Thursday). The last Night and this Day were More than ordinary Cold. Should have expected Mr. Maccarty from Worcester to preach my Lecture to Young Men, had it not been so extreme Cold. I preach’d myself on Rom. 8.6 former part to a few that Ventur’d out. Mr. Jenison spent the Evening with me and Supp’d here. N.B. I ask’d him why he was not at Communion last Opportunity? He said he did not know that it was to be Communion Day, till the Day before.
1746 December 19 (Friday). Continues very Cold. Ebenezer much taken off by Tooth ach. Thomme cyphers again.
1746 December 20 (Saturday). [No entry.]
1746 December 21 (Sunday). All Day upon Micah 6.8 going on Still with the Subject from Tit. 2.12. Mr. Jenison, Mrs. Mary Steward,177 Widow Thurston, and Mr. Zebulon Rice’s Wife178 din’d here. My God grant us these dire principles to Love one another, and to delight in shewing Mercy!
1746 December 22 (Monday). A.M. I rode over to the Southside of the Town. Was at Mr. Beriah Rice’s, Deacon Forbush’s179 where was Mr. Child of Roxbury, Glazier. Visited Mr. Dunlop who is Sick; This and to Speak with the Glazier were my Chief Errands: was also at Mr. Martin Pratts—din’d (as I return’d home) at Lieutenant Tainters. Very Raw Cold towards Night—but Lieutenant Hezekiah Ward came with a Plott of Land he had laid out for me of 7 1/2 Acres by the Burying place, and would have me go and See it. I went just before sunsett. At Mr. Nurses at Eve and as I return’d home I visited Jonathan Maynard who is ill of a Dropsie.
1746 December 23 (Tuesday). Very Cold. Storm of Snow. P.M. Mr. John Child the Glazier came to work.
1746 December 24 (Wednesday). Bright Day, but Cold and Windy. Mr. Child at Work—last night he work’d very late, finish’d my new Study window, and this morning put it up; Mended my Windows through out the House, which was no Small piece of work.
1746 December 25 (Thursday). Mr. Child finish’d his work So late and it being very Cold he went not away till this Morning, which proves also a very Cold Day. My own common Exercises in my study without going out save to the yard to chop a little etc.
1746 December 26 (Friday). Captain Maynard who grows cool and almost a Stranger here. Some Evenings the Boys Cypher.
1746 December 27 (Saturday). My Sons frequently Sledding wood and little enough to maintain 3 Fires this Cold Season.
1746 December 28 (Sunday). Go on with my Subject from Tit. 2.12. Am now upon Living Godly—but the Text improv’d to Day was 2 Tim. 3.12 one Clause. Mrs. Rice (Beriahs Wife) din’d here. Earnest Beg that to Days Exercises may have some Suitable Influence upon us!
1746 December 29 (Monday). Was at Mr. Jenisons School a.m. Visited Mr. Adams’s180 Family. Din’d with Mrs. Beamans after which Abimaleck (Indian) his Daughter Deborah having a Child Dead in their Wigwam and having desir’d Mr. Jonah Warrin to Send for me, I went to them, pray’d in the Wigwam and went to the Grave. I gave them Severe Admonitions and Earnest Exhortations. Was at Mr. Williams’s.
1746 December 30 (Tuesday). Dr. Breck here and din’d as he did Yesterday also whilst I was gone from home. Deacon Forbush, Mr. Moses Pratt of Shrewsbury and Mr. Samuel Warrin of Grafton here, and wants a petition to be drawn to be presented to the General Court for their Compassion towards their Captive children and Friends. At Eve (though it snow’d) I was at Captain Maynards. N.B. His Wife putts me in mind of my not having visited Mr. Abner Newton since the death of his Father, Mother and little Child: which I was a little surpriz’d at, but told Mrs. Maynard ‘twas Neglected with no Particular Design, but I would endeavour soon to make them a Visit.
1746 December 31 (Wednesday). Captain Maynard as he was going to Boston gave me his hints and Resentments of my neglecting to visit Abner Newton—but he soon went off. I consider’d with myself that I visited them Some Number of Times in their Affliction, one Day after another—and when I came from Boston preach’d a Funeral Sermon on Purpose. But have been of late more than ordinarily fill’d with perplexing Cares and important Business—as particularly my Bond with Mr. Jesse Rice of Marlborough; the weighty Affairs of my settlement with this Precinct; the Sickness at Mr. Whipples; the troublesome Affair, and great Disappointment about my Pork; but especially a Daily anxiety about my Cattle my Hay being very Short and my Stock much increas’d. My Corn also Much Shorter than Ordinary; which was caus’d me to ride much more than I should have done, and yet without success. It was Somewhat Rainy this Morning, but was moderate air, so I delay’d no longer, but made a Visit to Mr. Abner Newtons. He was not at Home; his wife much confin’d by Lameness. She manifested no uneasiness that I had not been to see ‘em, but said that they had hop’d I would, and I cant but remark that though I have occasionally seen Mr. Newton, and did of very late yet he has shown no Disgust nor was I aware that they had any special Expectation of me—though I acknowledge I should have done well to have gone—and am Sorry I neglected it. I told Mrs. Newton I hop’d they would not be offended—and She manifested her Satisfaction and ask’d me to come again to see her. Call’d at Deacon Newtons. Return’d and din’d at home. It has been more than Ordinary Cold, difficult Weather, So that I could go out but little unless upon pressing Occasions. Was disappoint’d and hinder’d by the Cold when I was out. The Year Ends with this Uneasiness of my Nearest and most bountiful Neighbours—which I am sorry for—but I can’t but fear there is, and has been of late, a great Dissatisfaction on another Score; and I fear Some Disposition to Watch for my halting. There has been no sweetness I believe Since the Ordination of Mr. Martyn, or as my Neighbour calls him Esquire Martyn. But God forgive what has been amiss in me! quicken me to my Duty and enable me to walk inoffensively—that the Ministry be not blamed!
1 Joseph Wheeler.
2 Artemas Ward, the future general.
3 Probably a work by the English minister, Ezekiel Hopkins (1633–1690).
4 A work by the English Dissenter of London who died about 1717.
5 William Fenner, The Soul’s Looking-Glasse . . . tvith a Treatise of Conscience (Cambridge, 1640).
6 John Brown (Harvard 1741), later the minister of Cohasset, 1747–1791. Sibley, XI, 12–17.
7 The Reverend John Mellen of Sterling.
8 The Reverend Ebenezer Morse of Boylston.
9 John Britain of Marlborough.
10 Joseph Joslin.
11 Thomas Fuller, The Church-History of Britain (London, 1655).
12 A work of the great English Calvinist divine, John Edwards (1637–1716).
13 Several Strattons lived in Waltham at this time. Edmund L. Sanderson, Waltham as a Precinct of Watertown and as a Town (Waltham, 1936), pp. 138–140.
14 Of Shrewsbury.
15 Widow of Thomas Forbush.
16 The anniversary of the first Mrs. Parkman’s death.
17 William Jenison, the former schoolmaster of Westborough.
18 [Additional footnote: Asaph Rice (1733–1816), Harvard 1752, was the son of Beriah and Mary (Goodnow) Rice of Westborough. After graduation he taught school, tried his hand at the “practice of Physick,” worked with Eli Forbes at a mission, and then served as minister of Westminster.]
19 James Goodwin.
20 The Reverend Israel Loring of Sudbury.
21 Son of Deacon Jonathan Forbush.
22 The Reverend Abraham Taylor was a dissenting minister of England.
23 Given as Paul Newton and Mary Farrour in Westborough Vital Records.
24 (Harvard 1741), minister of the church at Framingham, 1746–1775. Sibley, XI, 8–11.
25 Edward Goddard. These opposition charges were printed as A Brief Account (Boston, 1750).
26 The Reverend Nathaniel Appleton of Cambridge.
27 The Reverend William Williams.
28 Widow of the Reverend John Swift.
29 Ephraim Williams, a founder of Stockbridge. See Sarah C. Sedgwick and Christina S. Marquand, Stockbridge 1739–1939 A Chronicle ([Great Barrington], 1939), 22–24.
30 Johannes Lydius of Albany. See Collections of the History of Albany (Albany, 1871), IV, 144.
31 Joseph Emerson (Harvard 1743), later the minister at Pepperell, 1746–1775. Sibley, XI, 217–20.
32 Joshua Eaton, a lawyer of Worcester.
33 Parkman recorded no baptisms or other church activities on or near this date in the Westborough Church Records. [Additional note: Parkman may have referred to the records of the Worcester church.]
34 Parkman’s brother-in-law, the physician of Worcester.
35 Prominent citizen of Shrewsbury.
36 The Reverend John Martyn of the north precinct of Westborough.
37 Captain Benjamin Flagg, Jr.
38 This concerned the settlement of the estate of Parkman’s first father-in-law, Samuel Champney of Cambridge.
39 The Reverend Aaron Smith of Marlborough.
40 Abraham Williams of Marlborough.
41 March 13, I745, was proclaimed a day of fasting and prayer throughout the province.
42 The Reverend Thomas Frink of Rutland.
43 The Reverend Robert Breck, Jr.
44 The weaver of Grafton.
45 Camlet or camblet, a fine, closely woven fabric of camel’s hair or perhaps mixed wool and silk. This was once commonly used for cloaks.
46 Widow of Benjamin Woods of Marlborough.
47 Jacob Bacon of Keene, N.H.
48 See Kent, Northborough History, pp. 24–26.
49 Lawyer of Cambridge.
50 The Reverend Joshua Gee.
51 John Quincy (Harvard 1708) of Boston.
52 Councillor Samuel Danforth.
53 (Harvard 1728). Sibley, VIII, 463–75.
54 Nathaniel Hubbard (Harvard 1698), Justice of the Superior Court. Sibley, IV, 406–08.
55 Tabitha Parkman, the Reverend Mr. Parkman’s niece, married Israel Hearsey, Nov. 13, 1740.
56 Of Cambridge.
57 The Reverend William Cooke of Wayland.
58 The Reverend Joseph Davis.
59 The Reverend Israel Loring of Sudbury.
60 The Reverend Nathan Stone of Southborough.
61 Mrs. John McCollister of Westborough.
62 Mrs. James Bowman.
63 Graff is an old variant of graft.
64 Believers in the doctrines of Arminius.
65 Joseph Brigham.
66 Benjamin Gott, the physician.
67 (Harvard 1727).
68 Paul Dudley, Justice of the Superior Court of Judicature.
69 John Brown, Jr. (Harvard 1741), was later the minister at Cohasset, 1747–1791. Sibley, XI, 12–17.
70 The Reverend Jacob Bacon.
71 The Reverend John Martyn of the north precinct.
72 Josiah Newton.
73 John Brown (Harvard1741), later minister of Cohasset, 1747–1791. Sibley, XI, 12–17.
74 Reverend Nathan Stone of Southborough.
75 The Westborough church did not at this time vote the dismission of the north side people.
76 Reverend Job Cushing.
77 John Carnes (Harvard 1742), later the minister of Stoneham, 1746–1757. Sibley, XI, 137–42.
78 Through some oversight Parkman made no entry in the Church Records between May 7 and May 18.
79 Elizabeth, the daughter of the Reverend Israel Loring.
80 Richard Manson and Elizabeth Loring were married June 6, 1746.
81 The Reverend Samuel Barrett of Hopkinton.
82 Reverend James Bridgham.
83 Reverend Ebenezer Gay.
84 William Holloway.
85 Reverend John Gardner of Stow.
86 Reverend David Hall of Sutton.
87 William Baldwin (Harvard 1748).
88 William Cooke (Harvard 1748).
89 Gideon Richardson (Harvard 1749).
90 Samuel Lyscom.
91 John Stoddard (Harvard 1701) of Northampton, a Councillor, and Chief Justice of the Circuit Court of Common Pleas. Sibley, V, 96–119.
92 John Chandler of Worcester.
93 Timothy Dwight of Hatfield.
94 The Reverend Ebenezer Devotion.
95 The Reverend Robert Breck, Jr.
96 The Reverend Nathaniel Appleton of Cambridge.
97 (Harvard 1747).
98 Son of Aaron Forbush of Westborough.
99 “We hear from No. 4. of the Narragansett-Townships, that on the 24th of May past, four Men were killed by the Indians; another was dangerously wounded, and two more are missing. . . .” The Boston Weekly News-Letter, June 5, 1746.
100 John Fay, a deacon of the Westborough church.
101 Son of Cornelius Cook of Westborough.
102 Of Marlborough.
103 No record of death in Westborough Vital Records.
104 Reverend Joseph Buckminister [that is, Buckminster], minister of the First Congregational Church in Rutland.
105 The Reverend Thomas Goss of Bolton.
106 Of Shrewsbury. Ward, Shrewsbury, 336.
107 Isaac Stone was at one time selectman of Shrewsbury.
108 Wife of the Reverend Joseph Noyes of New Haven.
109 (Harvard 1731). Tutor of Harvard College. Sibley, IX, 67–70.
110 Benjamin Stevens (Harvard 1740) was later minister of Kittery, Me., 1751–1791. Sibley, X, 535–39.
111 Deacon Simon Tainter. [Correction: Tainter was not elected deacon until 1757.]
112 Pepperrell and Warren had just returned from Louisburg.
113 Timothy Green, the printer, of Boston published a number of the works of Jonathan Edwards.
114 Ebenezer Roby, the physician of Sudbury.
115 Jonathan Colton (Yale 1745) was later the missionary for the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel for Hebron and vicinity. Dexter, Biographical Sketc.hes, II, 35–36.
116 Daniel Hastings.
117 Joseph Sparhawk.
118 Reverend Samuel Whittelsey (Yale 1705), the minister of Wallingford, 1708–1752. Dexter, Biographical Sketc.hes, pp. 40–44.
119 Stephen Williams, Jr. (Yale 1741), later the minister of West Woodstock, 1747–1795. Dexter, Biographical Sketc.hes, pp. 695–696.
120 Mrs. Joseph Joslin.
121 Benjamin Garfield.
122 This obscure work of the famous Puritan divine Thomas Shepard (1605–1649), was published under the title Four Necessary Cases of Conscience of Daily Use (London, 1661?).
123 Stephen Charnock (1628–1680) was a famous English non-conformist minister, whose writings were published posthumously. [Edward Veal and Richard Adams, editors]. The Works of the Late Learned Divine Stephen Charnock (London, 1683–1684).
124 Isaac Amsden of Westborough.
125 Mrs. Simon Hayward.
126 Mrs. Thomas Billings.
127 Samuel Kneeland, the printer at Boston, and publisher with Timothy Green, Jr., of The Boston Gazette or Weekly Journal.
128 Joseph Hall, successively Bishop of Exeter and Norwich wrote Mediation and Vowes, Divine and Morall (London, 1609). It appeared also as Newly Enlarged with 10 Vows and Meditations (London, 1609). Still another enlarged edition was published in 1621.
129 Nathaniel Moore, an early settler, was often elected selectman.
130 Parkman’s neighbor and old friend, Hezekiah How.
131 Frances Barker Shirley, wife of Governor William Shirley of Mass.
132 The widow of Deacon Isaac Tomlin.
133 Isaac Tomlin, Jr.
134 Reverend Job Cushing of Shrewsbury.
135 Reverend John Norton (Yale 1737) was serving as chaplain to the soldiers in various forts in western Massachusetts. At Fort Massachusetts, within the present township of Adams, Norton was taken captive, Aug. 20, 1746. He later published the narrative of his captivity and release. John Norton, The Redeemed Captive (Boston, 1748). See Dexter, Biographical Sketc.hes, 587–88. [Was this related to John Norton, Narrative of the Capture and Burning of Fort Massachusetts by the French and Indians, in the time of the War of 1744–1749, and the Captivity. . . . Written at the Time by One of the Captives (North Adams, Mass., 1933; originally published 1748)?]
136 Eunice Rice died Sept. 5, 1746.
137 Son of Deacon Jonathan Forbush.
138 Sarah Bellows had married Phinehas Forbush.
139 Daniel Howe. See Ward, Shrewsbury, p. 312.
140 Reverend Joshua Prentice.
141 Elisha, the son of Jonah Warrin died Sept. 18, 1746.
142 Rebecca Hicks, Mr. Parkman’s niece.
143 Reverend Ebenezer Morse of Boylston.
144 Mrs. Samuel Breck, Parkman’s sister-in-law.
145 (Harvard, 1742). The first minister of Brentwood, N. H., 1748–1789. Sibley, XI, 172–73.
146 Wife of Elizer or Eleazer Rice.
147 Neighbor Hezekiah How.
148 Reverend Jacob Bacon of Keene, N. H.
149 (Harvard 1741), later the minister at Ware, 1751–1754, and Yarmouth, 1755–1760. Sibley, XI, 58–64.
150 The Reverend John Mellen of Sterling.
151 Parkman’s sister, Mrs. Josiah Willard.
152 Parkman’s nephew, the son of William Parkman.
153 Reverend John Webb.
154 The Reverend Andrew Eliot.
155 The Reverend Samuel Wigglesworth of Hamilton.
156 Of Cambridge.
157 Joseph Patterson of Watertown.
158 Thomas Darling of Framingham.
159 Augustin Calmet, An Historical, Critical, Geographical, Chronological, and Etymological Dictionary of the Holy Bible (London, 1732), 3 vols.
160 Ebenezer Brooks of Grafton.
161 Benjamin Winchester.
162 Mrs. Samuel Fay.
163 Nahum Ward of Shrewsbury.
164 Joshua Smith, the physician of Shrewsbury.
165 Son of Ebenezer Brooks.
166 An uneducated preacher who was later ordained. He became the minister of the Separatist Church in Sutton, 1751–1799.
167 Francis Whipple.
168 The Reverend Thaddeus Maccarty of Worcester.
169 Samuel Clarke, D.D., A Defense of an Argument made use of in a Letter [by Dr. Clarke] to Mr. Dodwel, to Prove the Immateriality and Natural Immortality of the Soul (London, 1707). There followed an exchange of views in a series of pamphlets by Clarke and Henry Dodwell (1641–1711).
170 Joshua Kendall, an early settler.
171 The widow of Joseph Rice of Marlborough.
172 William Fenner, The Soul’s Looking-Glasse . . . With a Treatise of Conscience (Cambridge, 1640). Another edition appeared in 1643.
173 William Brintnall of Sudbury.
174 Josiah Cleveland of Watertown.
175 Ezekiel Upham.
176 David Stratton.
177 Daughter of Daniel Steward of Marlborough.
178 Zebulon Rice married Abigail, daughter of Daniel Forbush of Westborough.
179 Jonathan Forbush.
180 Benjamin Adams of Marlborough.