Diary of Ebenezer Parkman, 1749

1749 January 1 (Sunday). Blessed be the Lord who continually upholds my Soul in Life and especially has conducted me through the changing Scenes of the Last Year—has granted me also to see Chearful Light of another New Years Day! that we have also the Day of Grace and the means thereof, at the Same Time; and that we have another of the Days of the son of Man! How undeserv’d! how discriminating His Mercy and Bounty! This forenoon I read publickly the 16th chapter of Genesis: and preach’d on Neh. 9.6, using the Body of the Sermon I formerly deliver’d on that Text, but had both a new introduction and an application for Improvement of the Day. Mr. Joseph Stratton of Waltham din’d with us. P.M. I read Mat. 16, preach’d on Ps. 17, ult carrying on the Subject of the Happiness of the Saints in Heaven. May God grant to us the principle of Holiness and divine Love here, which shall be in Such Glory in the future World! The Weather is grown very Cold. The Snow hard enough for people to run upon. God only can Sustain us, for who can Stand before his Cold.

1749 January 2 (Monday). Another very Cold Day. Mr. Hall1 of Sutton here with a Letter from the first Church there requesting me to assist in a Fast next Week on Account of Various Difficultys among them by reason of the Separations increasing and on Consideration of a Late Council at Oxford, met at the Request of one of the members of the 1st Church in Sutton (one Davidson) under the Censure of Said Church. But I was oblig’d to refuse, both because of my own uncertain Health, and my wife’s present Circumstances. The widow Sarah Forbush2 here to work for us—Spinning. Ebenezer is Sledding Wood.

1749 January 3 (Tuesday). Not altogether So Cold as yesterday. Ebenezer Sledded Two Oak Loggs to Maynards Saw Mill. I rode up to Mr. Knowltons to obtain one of his sons to come and live with me, Ebenezer being about to go to Harvard. Din’d at Mr. Knowltons. Was also at Mr. Bellows’s, Mr. Greens and old Mr. Whipples. Very Raw Cold, and begins to snow before I got home. Billy began to learn Latin. May God be pleas’d to grant it may succeed. Mr. Amos Pratt3 of Shrewsbury dy’d yesterday.

1749 January 4 (Wednesday). The Morning was Somewhat snowy, but Elijah Bellows according to appointment came to go with Ebenezer to Harvard to bring back the Horse. And therefore my son went Scil. to Mr. William Keyes’s to learn what he can of the Gunsmiths Business. And God most merciful be gracious to him and be the Guide of his Youth! Mr. Joseph Roberts4 from Boston, a young preacher at Grafton (accompany’d by Mr. Simon Tainter of Grafton) came to see me—din’d with us, and tarry’d over Night (Mr. Tainter going to his Father Bruce’s).5 Elijah Warrin return’d safe with the Horses from Harvard.

1749 January 5 (Thursday). Mr. Roberts, Mr. Upham and Mr. Tainter din’d here. P.M. though a very Cold, blustering Day, Mr. Roberts return’d to Grafton.

1749 January 6 (Friday). Cold Season. Very difficult to be without help. P.M. at my Request Mr. Pratt sent his Cornelius to assist in Cutting Wood, etc.

1749 January 7 (Saturday). Very Cold. Mr. Solomon Woods came—brought a pair of Bellows from Cambridge and mended ‘em. Din’d here. P.M. Mrs. Forbush (Phinehas’ Widow) here til now. She had my mare to ride home, and went for me to Mr. Daniel Hardys to get me some money, he being Collector of the money granted for the last Year, and though he has had the Rates from Month to Month, yet he brings me none. Nathan Knowlton does not come as I expected.

1749 January 8 (Sunday). Very Cold Day. No Nathan. Tending the Cattle at this extreme season very troublesome to me, having been so very unus’d to it—but my little Billy has been some help. At noon came Cornelius Cook (by desire) to take Care of the Cattle. At noon likewise one of the Chimneys took fire. I read in the publick service part of the 17th chapter of Genesis and preach’d on Ps. 17.15 of the Happiness of Heaven. P.M. read part of the 17th of Matthew. Preach’d on 2 Cor. 8.7 (repeated), on occasion of the design’d Contributions for the Redemption of the Daughter of Mr. David Woodwell. But by reason of the Extremity of the Season I (not without advising upon it) thought it prudentest to adjourn it to another Sabbath. N.B. Deacon Forbush was the person I talked with—he din’d with me, as did his daughter in law (widow Forbush) as well as master Upham.

1749 January 9 (Monday). A very cold Night indeed. Nathan Knowlton came in the forenoon. His Father afterwards, and din’d here. The Day Somewhat moderater. At Eve Thomas came home.

1749 January 10 (Tuesday). Difficulty to get grinding. Thomas to old Mr. Johnson’s mill, but brought nothing home. P.M. came Mr. Joseph Williams from Marlborough in a Disquietment about Thomas—in Special his being at Uriah Amsdens (where he had contracted acquaintance by means of the womans being a Westborough woman) after he had forbid him. And nothing would Satisfie with him or Thomas but throwing up the Indentures, which after much Debate therefore We did. Thomas acknowledging his Fault in using Amsdens House against his (his masters) will: and his not coming home from Horns of Southborough (at the Time of the late trooping there) along with Silas (his fellow ‘prentice) but riding home with Said Amsden—and some other Indiscretions—and Williams acknowledged he had not done well in speaking to Thomme’s Disparagement undervaluing his Time, and was sorry that in his passion he should Express himself So. This is a New Affliction, but tis unavoidable. I desire to acknowledge the hand of God in it, and Submitt to His holy will. O that God would grant Repentence and forgiveness for what has been amiss!

1749 January 11 (Wednesday). Nathan Knowlton to Drurys Mill with Success. A.M. pleasant, p.m. clouded. Sheriff Taylor6 of Southborough and Several others for his aid, is conducting Jacob Newton (of the Same Town) up to Worcester Goal to committ him for Theft.

1749 January 12 (Thursday). Neighbour Ebenezer Maynard kill’d an Hogg for me, my son Thomas and Nathan Knowlton assisting. A pleasant Day though Somewhat Cold. P.M. I rode as far as Mr. Daniel Hardys (who is Collector) and to Lieutenant Tainters.

1749 January 13 (Friday). Thomas (and his Sister Molly with Bekky Gott) rode in the Slay to Marlborough. Instead of his bringing up his Chest and all his Things from his late Master Williams’s he gives in to his [kind] Entertainment, leaves his Chest and hearkens to Mr. Williams’s Discourse of employing him again. N.B. Sally Gott instead of Bekky7—in a snow Storm. At Eve Mr. Samuel Harrington to see how I was on’t, for wood etc., and he helped me in getting in Loggs etc. before the Storm was too hard.

1749 January 14 (Saturday). Stormy a.m. Clear’d off p.m. Neighbour Eliezer Rice came kindly to see whether I did not want help about my Wood, Loggs especially and about my Creatures. I took it very kindly though I did not Stand in need at this Time.

1749 January 15 (Sunday). A.M. read the latter part of Genesis 17 and gave some Exposition (as I have done several Times) and I preach’d on Mat. 25.46 latter Clause. Mr. Upham8 brought his Father to dine with me. P.M. read the latter part of Mat. 17 and deliver’d part of Several Expositions of Mat. 6 but from 2 Cor. 8.7, and after Sermon we Contributed for the Redemption of the Daughter of Mr. David Woodwell of Hopkinton. The Lord bless his word, and accept of our Offering!

1749 January 16 (Monday). Master Uphams Father here. Sudden News from Dr. Gott, by Sir Henchman that Sally must go home. Mr. Cushing9 and his wife to See us, and din’d here. P.M. Sally return’d with Henchman, to our great Disappointment. At Eve came Mr. Stone who had visited Mr. Martyn. N.B. Deacon Newton was with me to count the money gather’d yesterday and it amounted to a few Shillings above 20£ old Tenor. The Precinct had a Meeting to appoint a Committee to treat with Lieutenant Brigham, the proprietor of the Land which they have voted the Convenientest Spot for a Meeting House.10

1749 January 17 (Tuesday). Mr. David Woodwell here on his Return from Deerfield to Hopkinton. He tells us that last week dy’d Mr. Benjamin Doolittle11 the pastor of Northfield. Many Southern Neighbours came to Cutt and Sled wood for me. My Son Thomas went also with my own Team. The Company were Mr. Samuel Harrington with a Team, Mr. Timothy Warrin and Team, Benjamin Tainter (for his Brother Jonathan Forbush—but) with his Fathers Team, Mr. Growe, Mr. Bowman, Mr. Daniel Hardy, Mr. Phinehas Hardy, Mr. Zebulon Rice, Messrs. Solomon Woods, Jonas Child, Samuel Baker, Eleazer Williams, besides which were Robert Cook, Nathaniel Whitney junior, Joseph Grout, Judah Rice, Thomas Hardy, and Samuel Bumpso. And they got down 34 Load to the Door. Sorrowful News of the Death of Mr. Daniel Cooks son, at Newton, his only Child, who was here not long since with his designed Father in Law, Reverend Mr. Cotton. My wife continually in much pain particularly in her Side: but especially o’Nights—I fear the Event. The Lord be pleas’d to prepare us for his holy Will!

1749 January 18 (Wednesday). A.M. being a bright pleasant Day I assisted Thomas in Sledding home 2 load of the Wood which the people yesterday left cutt in the woods; for there is danger of its being cover’d up if there should come another Snow. P.M. I rode in my Slay to Mr. Cooks with Irons (given last year by Mr. Cowell) to shooe it. At Eve Cold. Thomas informs me that there is no water to be found at the Springs; though he cutt quite through the Ice he meets with nothing but Mudd. My wife continues very full of pain in her side.

1749 January 19 (Thursday). Cold Morning. Sent my son Thomas to Mr. Cooks to finish Shooing the Slay.

1749 January 20 (Friday). Mr. Dyer of Worcester brought me Mr. Thomas Emlyn’s—Tracts Volume I.12

1749 January 21 (Saturday). Lieutenant Ward here to see me about the Plot of 19 1/2 Acres.

1749 January 22 (Sunday). Read Genesis 18 and gave some Extracts from Mr. Ainsworth13 and some Observations of my own for an Exposition. Preached on John 12.26. Mr. Upham14 and Dodge15 from College din’d here. P.M. read Mat. 18 with some brief observations, and preached from 2 Pet. 1.5.6. The former part too unprepar’d, the body of the Discourse was from sermon on Titus 2.12—add to their Knowledge of Temperance, from page 55 to 68. Because of what I had lately heard of some persons being overtaken with Drink, and some of them members of the Church.

1749 January 23 (Monday). A.M. Dodge here. In my Defence of my Sermon on Eph. 5.14, awake that Sleepest etc. against what Dodge had heard diverse people say of it, I read him the chief of the Notes. P.M. Deacon Newton came to review the counting of the late Contribution for Mr. Woodwell, and he brought somewhat more which a person put into his Hands, who was not at Meeting on the Day of the Contributions—the whole sum now amounts to £29.11.2. The precinct also met today to hear the Report of their Committee about the Land which they have pitch upon for the new Meeting House to Stand on: but they are at present at a stand by reason of the Objections of those Rice’s who are fellow-heirs with the late wife of Lieutenant Nathan Brigham of Southborough, who is the present possessor or Claimer of the spot. N.B. At Eve Several men were in here, after the meeting. Mr. Daniel Hardy paid me the full of 152£ 10 s. to make up for last Year. And I gave the precinct a Receipt in full from the Beginning of the precinct to June 5 last. Lieutenant Forbush was here and he was the first who mention’d to me any Dissatisfaction of his own, with my public Reading of the holy Scriptures in public. Captain Forbush and Daniel Hardy also offer’d something in my hearing of the like nature. I endeavour’d further to Vindicate it—and we had fervent argument upon another Point likewise. Scil. the Beginning of the Sabbath. I was griev’d to find such a Disposition to Objecting and finding fault—for Lieutenant Said he believ’d we Should not only come to reading the Scripture, but to reading Prayers, for we were got to reading our Notes, whereas our Charge was to preach—not read. No word in the Bible that we should read, as for singing, he said I had preach’d about it some Time ago and recommended the Duty very much, and that they should all have their Psalm-Books—but now we were going (he thought) to turn it out of the worship, by degrees, for we had got to singing but one Stave. I answer’d that this was only in extreme Cold Day, or while they were so short that we needed to redeem time, and to Satisfie such people as had most frequently been very uneasy that they could not get home to their Cattle sooner. And therefore it was exceeding unreasonable to complain of that. May the Lord pitty and pardon us, for his names sake! My Wife in the Meantime was extreme full of pain, and when the Company retir’d home I rode to Mr. Maynards and would have got Nathan to go for Mrs. Forbush (the Midwife) but he was not at home. His Brother Ebenezer offer’d to go; whilst I went myself for Captain Maynards wife: and those Two women were here all night.

1749 January 24 (Tuesday). Mrs. Maynard return’d home. Mrs. Forbush tarrys. The weather changes to a Snow Storm. Yet I rode to Mr. Joseph Knowltons after his son Jacob to hire him for the year. Heard there that Mr. Samuel Crosby dy’d last night, a considerable Loss! I was at Mr. Bellows’s, Mr. Samuel Fays, Mr. Greens, and Mr. Francis Whipple’s. My wife, at my return, much the Same as when I left her.

1749 January 25 (Wednesday). Cold, clear Day. Mrs. Forbush here still—my wife in great pain—but very chiefly in her side. A time of much Distress with her. May the Lord prepare our Hearts with Suitable Frames to wait his holy will! Very Cold at Night.

1749 January 26 (Thursday). My Wife has somewhat more distinct Travail pains, but desires to consult Dr. Gott. Thomas rode to Marlborough with a Letter to him. He went also to his Master Williams’s, to bring up some More of his Things, and to know more of his Mind, since he had put a Stop to bringing away his Chest. Thomas carried likewise a Letter directed to the Reverend Mr. Loring, to be lodg’d at Mr. Jonathan Lorings for Conveyance. P.M. My Wife desires the Assistance of Neighbouring Women. I tackled up the Slay and went for old Mrs. Whipple and Mrs. Kitty Rice, then for Mrs. How and her Daughter Molly. Old Mrs. Maynard being notify’d came again; and I had the help of Nathan Maynard to bring Captain Forbush’s Wife. Thus we were waiting upon the Divine Pleasure this Evening. Thomas in Return from Marlborough has brought a Letter and Druggs from the Doctors, and word from Mr. Williams (of Marlborough) that he will Shortly come and see me.

1749 January 27 (Friday). About 4 this Morning came Captain Forbush’s Wife to my Bed Side, and waking me wish’d me Joy with my new Son which was now newly born, a lusty Child and the Mother in great Comfort. The Name of God be glorify’d! for though weeping may endure for a Night, yet Joy comes in the Morning. May this Child (with all my others) graciously given me of God, be the Lords! Devoted to his Service and an Instrument of his Glory! A very fine pleasant Day. Thomas waited on Mrs. Whipple, and Mrs. Eleazer Rice’s wife home in the Slay. The Rest went home o’foot. Thus I had very little Trouble in gathering the Women, or waiting on ‘em home. Thomas brought the widow Mary Fay16 to nurse, and she watch’d.

1749 January 28 (Saturday). Thomas rode to Mr. Edward Goddards17 and brought me 3 large Cheeses all of them being 37 1/2 weight at 3 Shillings per pound. Mercy Maynard watch’d.18

1749 January 29 (Sunday). Tis now 13 Year since my dear wife (Mary) dy’d—but God has turn’d our Sorrows into Joys. A.M. I read Genesis 19, and gave some brief glances upon it. Preach’d on Neh. 9.6, repeating my old sermon on that Text. It was Seasonable after what we have lately experienc’d. Mr. Upham and Granny Forbush19 din’d here. P.M. I read and briefly remark’d upon Matthew 19. Preach’d on 1 Tim. 2.15. N.B. I began it with a very Cautionary Introduction extempore, but I think there was no great need of it. My Twelfth, Eleventh living, Child was publickly dedicated to God and baptiz’d. In Honour of my worthy and Reverend Father in Law20 and excellent Friend I call’d him Breck. May the Lord graciously accept of him and bless him! and make him a Blessing in his Generation! The Granny and not the Nurse held him up. The Young Widow, Sarah Forbush Stay’d and watch’d. N.B. My Wife has been somewhat faint and weak, but was got up to Day. At Eve, She having endured a great deal of pain in her Hipp (She supposes tis the same flatulent pain which had before been so troublesome in her Side) and nothing past through her since last Thursday, I sent my son Thomas to Dr. Gott, and had Return from him the Same Night.

1749 January 30 (Monday). Endeavour’d some Retirement and Abstinence on Consideration of the Troubles I was in when my former wife lay dead. I would not forget the Wormwood and the Gall: and may my Soul be humbled in me! Brother Hicks here. It happened to be a Sad Interruption to me—by Enquirys about the Settlement of Mother Champneys Estate; but Especially by uneasiness about a particular trifling article of the Goods which put me out of Frame to see him so Stiff and Disobliging to me—only about Father Champneys old Sword. I desire to bewail my ill frames on Such Days! Mrs. Fay, our Nurse, watched herself, again.

1749 January 31 (Tuesday). P.M. visited Mr. Abner Newton who has been sometime confin’d by Indispositions. And was also at Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s. Mrs. Hannah Maynard rode home with me and Watch’d. N.B. The Neighbourhood full of Talk of Robert Cook and Sarah Crosby, Two Young Things who propose Marriage.

1749 February 1 (Wednesday). I went over to Neighbour Hows. Sarah Crosby21 having liv’d here awhile I warmly inveigh’d against the Libertys allow’d to Young people. No watcher with my Wife.

1749 February 2 (Thursday). My Wife grows better, one Day after another. Reflected on the Sorrows of my Family when my former wife was bury’d, this Day 13 Years agoe. Old Mr. Maynard here just after we had weigh’d the Infant, weight 10 1/2. At Eve Mr. John Chamberlin here. Also Mr. Eliezer Rice and wife—these last supp’d with me.

1749 February 3 (Friday). Mr. David Woodwell here and receiv’d the Contribution of our Congregation for the Redemption of his Daughter out of Captivity, viz. £29.11.11 old Tenor.

1749 February 4 (Saturday). The Child Sore Mouth.

1749 February 5 (Sunday). Read the 20th of Genesis. I preach’d on John 12.26. P.M. read 20th of Matthew and preach’d on Heb. 12, part of 10.22 and 23. N.B. Mrs. Suzanna Tainter of Watertown din’d here. Hephzibah Crosby watch’d.

1749 February 6 (Monday). Town Meeting to call in Debts. I sent the Town a Paper respecting my arrears in the year (44) per hand of Captain Maynard.22 Marry’d Robert Cook23 and Sarah Crosby at his Fathers.

1749 February 7 (Tuesday). I rode to Southborough and din’d at Mrs. [sic] Stone’s.24 His Wife had the Mid-wife with her, but the Women had dispers’d to their Several Homes. I proceeded in my Journey to Sudbury—to Deacon Mores25 to get him to die a larger Deer skin for me. I went at Eve to Mr. Lorings,26 his son Nathan’s Wife ill. The old Gentleman in Trouble about some New Dissentions in his Parish (Several members of Mr. Bliss’s Church at Concord desir’d to partake at their Communion but were deny’d). I lodg’d there.

1749 February 8 (Wednesday). I found the way to Mr. Jotham Browns—but he was not at home—din’d with his Wife and talk’d about my son Thomas’s living there. P.M. I went to Mr. Abijah Haynes’s—and the Storm increasing very tediously I consented to their repeated Invitation to tarry there—lodg’d with one Puffer in that House on a Visit but belonging to Castle William. N.B. read the new Act about Silver Money—account of Lord Lovat.27

1749 February 9 (Thursday). A rugged morning—went to Mr. Browns again. He agreed to take Thomas. I had Mr. William Rice’s Company from Mr. Lorings. Din’d at Deacon More’s. When I got up to Dr. Gotts heard that Mr. Stones28 Spouse is given over. Call’d at Mr. Smiths.29 When I got home found there had been Three sorrowful messages. A man from Mr. Stones to desire me to visit him in his Affliction. One or Two from Mr. Tomlin, his Child being Dead, and a Letter from Holden concerning an appointed Fast there on occasion of the Throat Distemper at which they desire my assistance.

1749 February 10 (Friday). In the morning visit Brother Stone—his wife departed yesterday p.m. A very sore Breach upon him—May God Support him and afford all needed Mercy to him and his dear Children! Mr. Noah Brooks30 here going to Mr. Martyn to desire him to administer the Lord’s Supper to the Church of Grafton. Our Infant Child has a somewhat bad Sore Mouth. Attended the Funeral of Mr. Tomlins Child. Mrs. Thankful Maynard watch’d.

1749 February 11 (Saturday). Disappointed of Changing tomorrow with Mr. Martyn. I did what I could to prepare my Self. But at about 11 at night came Mr. Ebenezer Johnson from Southborough requesting me to change tomorrow with Mr. Minot31 of Concord, who would preach at Acton and Mr. Swift32 for Mr. Smith. Mr. Smith would come to supply my place whilst I should go to Southborough. Accordingly

1749 February 12 (Sunday). I rode to Southborough and met Mr. Smith coming here. I preach’d for Mr. Stone (who was present) on occasion of his dear Spouse’s Decease. Text a.m. Ez. 24.16.33 P.M. on Mat. 24.44.34 Mr. Nicols of Boston among us. I return’d at Eve.

1749 February 13 (Monday). This was the Sorrowful Day of the Funeral of Mrs. Judith Stone, the amiable and lovely Spouse of my Brother Stone of Southborough. Mr. Cushing and Mr. Martyn came and though a Snowy Time I went with them to the House of Mourning. The Reverend Mr. Loring pray’d. The Pall Bearers were plac’d thus Mr. Loring and Mr. Cushing, Mr. Barrett35 and I, Mr. Martyn and Mr. Smith. The carrying Bearers were Justice Liscomb36 and Deacon Amsden,37 Deacon Woods38 and Captain Brigham.39 There were several other ministers besides the foremention’d. Mr. Perkins40 of Bridgewater, Mr. Cotton41 of Woburn, Mr. Swift of Acton, Mr. Reed of Framingham, besides Mr. Weld42 of Attlebury who was the deceaseds Brother in Law. May God take up his Dwelling with and Comfort the Mournfull Husband, take up the Motherless Children and remember them in his gracious Covenant and awaken all survivers to a diligent preparation for our own Decease! Mr. Cushing return’d home with me. Found my son Ebenezer from Harvard, there.

1749 February 14 (Tuesday). I rode up to Mr. Cushings, who was sent to also by the Reverend Mr. Davis and the Church and people under his Care, to assist in the Services of the intended Fast at Holden, on account of the Throat Distemper lately among them. We had a Cold Ride—called at Mr. Phinehas Haywoods—found ‘em all well at Mr. Davis’s, though their Neighbours were very distress’d. An exceeding Cold Night.

1749 February 15 (Wednesday). In the Morning came Mr. Buckminster43 and Mr. Maccarty. The Public Exercises of the Fast were carry’d on thus, Mr. Davis began with prayer. I preach’d on Rev. 6.8. Mr. Buckminster pray’d after sermon. P.M. Mr. Maccarty pray’d, Mr. Cushing preach’d on [blank] and I concluded. Mr. Cushing and I lodg’d at Mr. Davis’s.

1749 February 16 (Thursday). The Weather somewhat Moderator. Mr. Cushing was my Company to Shrewsbury. We went in to see Mrs. Crosby (Mr. David Crosbys Wife) and in talking of the Marriage of her Daughter Sarah to Robert Cook, I told her that his Brother Jonathan Certify’d me in the presence of the Company at the wedding that she (Mrs. Crosby) did give her Consent to it: but Mrs. Crosby said she did not, but that Robert had obtained her leave to court her Daughter, and nothing else but that he had come and ask’d her Pardon, as to anything he had offended her in. Din’d at Mr. Cushings—preach’d the Lecture for him on Rom. 8.7. Cold and Stormy p.m. and at Eve. I rode home in a snow storm. Mrs. Molly Martyn here. She came yesterday—she was brought by Ebenezer and Forbush—and there had been considerable Company besides here.

1749 February 17 (Friday). Cold and blustering. P.M. Mr. Martyn sent his Lad for Mrs. Molly, who therefore accordingly left us. N.B. I brought home from Holden the bloody Assizes in the West,44 and an Epitome of Ecclesiastical History.45

1749 February 18 (Saturday). Mr. Martyn here in his way to Grafton. N.B. he is going up in order to administer the Lord’s Supper there.

1749 February 19 (Sunday). Read Gen. 22, Mat. 22. Preach’d on Mat. 25.46. Mr. Upham.

1749 February 20 (Monday). Mr. John Mead here. Mr. Wellman.46 Mr. Martyn in his return from Grafton. Ebenezer rode up to Worcester o’mind to see Mr. Johnson the Smith.

1749 February 21 (Tuesday). Visit Mr. Benjamin Hows Family, 2 or 3 of his Children being under the Throat Distemper, especially Betty. At Eve Mr. [blank] Stone of Lexington (about to marry Hannah Holloway) here, with Gideon Hayward, to invite Ebenezer and Molly to Wedding tomorrow, but Ebenezer was gone (this Day) to Harvard again. My Mare Lame which proves no small Trouble.

1749 February 22 (Wednesday). At the Funeral of one of Mr. Thaddeus Gale’s Twins, and after the Funeral I visited Mr. Abner Newton who is still confin’d. Mr. Upham moves from Captain Bakers to Captain Maynards and keeps School there. Mr. Nurse blooded my mare. Snow’d exceeding Fast.

1749 February 23 (Thursday). Mr. Martyn and his Spouse made us a Visit, and din’d here. Mr. Upham also—and Spent the Evening with me. At Neighbour Hows—Betty grows worse.

1749 February 24 (Friday). I rode over to Deacon Forbush’s—din’d at his son Jonathan’s—proceeded as far as to Mr. Thomas Chaddocks (at Hopkinton)—agreed with him about his Son Thomas’s living with me. This was an Affair of great Necessity because my son Thomas has tarried so long at home that there are severall Dangers by means of it; and I foresee that I can’t go in the beginning of the week—but then indeed my son must (if possible) go away. Yet it was not without some regret that I left my study having been almost throughout the week hitherto, so hinder’d. At Lieutenant Tainters at Evening.

1749 February 25 (Saturday). A message from Mr. Hows that Betty is dead, and to be bury’d today. I attended the Funeral. Hephzibah Crosby has been here for some Days spinning. Mrs. Fay here nursing still, for my wife gets well slowly.

1749 February 26 (Sunday). Oblig’d to take some old preparations for both a. and p.m. What I had endeavour’s to prepare not being ripened. I therefore repeated sermon from Ps. 78.11 on Occasion of the Throat Distemper being among us again at Mr. Hows—Betty How dead and 2 more Children sick there. Mr. Upham, Mr. Lawrence and Mr. Chaddock din’d here. Mr. Chaddock brought his son Thomas to live here with me.

1749 February 27 (Monday). It being proprietors meeting at Marlborough to Day, I thought it best (as Solomon directs Prov. 25.9) to go over to Mr. Charles Rice’s to talk with him about the Land which Lieutenant Hezekiah Ward had taken up for me on the plain. He shewed me his Deeds, but had not the Plott which was needed. Sent by Mr. Ebenezer Rice for some Number of Things to Boston. Call’d to visit Mr. Williams.47 My Mare Lame yet. Stopp’d the Church to offer Mr. Lawrence48 and Mrs. Oak’s49 Desire to be dismiss’d to Bolton, and to quicken the Church again in contributing at Communion.

1749 February 28 (Tuesday). Sent my son Thomas to Mr. Jotham Brown of Sudbury, Sadler, to work with him, and Lieutenant Tainter, kindly, rode with him and brought back my Horse. Mrs. Rice very bountifully gives me the greatest part of her Nursing here now more than a Month[;] instead of 5£ She takes only 42 shillings old Tenor.

1749 March 1 (Wednesday). Din’d with the Officers at Captain Maynards, at the Invitation of Colonel Ward some Days ago. Messrs. Cushing, Martyn, Smith, Roberts and Upham there. Captain Willard receiv’d a Major Commission. Hepzibah Crosby here this week also. N.B. Dr. Gott here likewise but return’d not well.

1749 March 2 (Thursday). Should have Expected Mr. Maccarty to preach my Lecture, but it was a very rainy Day and he did not come. I preach’d (to a thin assembly) on John 7.4.

1749 March 3 (Friday). Mr. Roberts, who preach’d for Mr. Martyn yesterday, din’d here. Mrs. Fay now left us, and Still would take nothing more than I had given her for her Nursing. Hepzibah Crosby talks with me about her making a profession. My wife has gone a little into the Kitchen for several Days.

1749 March 4 (Saturday). Mrs. Fay (our Nurse) came at Evening to Stay with us over the Sabbath.

1749 March 5 (Sunday). A.M. I read Genesis 24 in part. Preach’d on Mat. 22.37.38, and administered the Lords Supper. Mr. Upham did not dine with us being gone to Grafton. P.M. I Read Matthew 24 in part. Preach’d on Mat. 25.46.

1749 March 6 (Monday). Town Meeting. At their request I pray’d with them. At Evening Mr. Daniel Hardy was in a Sudden Flame at my House, because I offer’d to return him a bad 5/ Bill which I had took of him.

1749 March 7 (Tuesday). Mrs. Fay tarried with us till today. I carried her to her son Benjamin Fays. I visited old Mr. Samuel Fay. Din’d at Mr. Phinehas Hardys. Visited at Mr. Samuel Hardy and James Millers. Proceeded to Upton to the Funeral of Mr. Samuel Forbush’s Child—a Second Child of theirs which has dy’d of the Throat Distemper. Tarried a little at Ensign Millers. After Burying visited Mr. Abner Newton who is still confin’d.

1749 March 8 (Wednesday). Preach’d at Southborough Lecture on Song 2.16.

1749 March 9 (Thursday). Read Life and Character of the late Reverend Dr. Colman.50 Admirable weather.

1749 March 10 (Friday). Hepzibah Crosby discourses with me about her joining with the Church.

1749 March 11 (Saturday). As we were at Morning Exercise came the Reverend Elihu Spencer,51 Missionary to the Mohawks on Onohaughguage. I persuaded him to stay and keep Sabbath here—for I was in very Special need of him to preach for me. He breakfasted with me and consented. Mr. Upham here p.m. At Eve I ask’d him to come tomorrow Evening.

1749 March 12 (Sunday). Mr. Spencer preach’d a.m. on Eph. 2.8 after I had read the 24th Chapter of Genesis and offer’d my Observations on the whole. Mr. Upham din’d here. P.M. Mr. Spencer preach’d on John 1.11, after I had read Matthew 24 and made my Observations on the whole of it. A Rainy Time. Mr. Upham here at Eve as I had invit’d him, and he stay’d over night. Mr. Spencer in his Conversation goes on in the Accounts of what he did and went through at Onohoughguage. N.B. In public I read the Act against Cursing etc.

1749 March 13 (Monday). Mr. Spencer to Boston. I attended the Funeral of Mr. Thaddeus Gales other Infant Twin. Mr. Maccarty made us a Visit and tarried over Night.

1749 March 14 (Tuesday). Mr. Maccarty to Boston. Lieutenant Tainter52 came and winnow’d out my Barley.

1749 March 15 (Wednesday). Rode to Marlborough to Deacon Tainters53 and din’d there. Went to Mr. Joseph Williams to get some Things for Thomas but could not get at ‘em by reason that the Lock seem’d to have been Strain’d, whether by anybodys trying to open it or by what other means can’t be found. From thence I proceeded on my Design’d Journey to Mr. Jotham Browns, who with his Lads were gone to a Raising at Mr. Dakins—going there I was compell’d to tarry and sup with ‘em; and then (though it was by this Time Candle-Light) I was oblig’d to visit and pray with his aged Mother. One Mr. Buss of Concord was going home, with his Wife and they were my Company, in the Evening Ride further. Mr. Buss accompany’d me to Mr. Bliss’s54 where I lodg’d.

1749 March 16 (Thursday). In the Morning Mr. Bliss was going to a Fast at Mr. Farrars55 and my own Business requir’d me to make Dispatch. Was a little while at Mr. Minots. But my Design was to find out one Mr. Isaac Taylor, a Gunsmith, with whom I desir’d my son Ebenezer Should live a while to learn that [crossed out] and what else falls into that Trade. I accordingly went to him and talk’d with him, who deferr’d determining, and promis’d to send me a Letter. Visited Mr. Whiting,56 and Captain Peter Prescott57—din’d with the Latter—brought from him the works of Machiavell—also a Number of Roots, Cyons and Branches to propagate Mullberry Trees, and Pear Trees etc. Call’d at Deacon Rice’s in my way up. Mr. Stone of Southborough came there. We rode together to Marlborough. I lodg’d at Mr. Smiths.

1749 March 17 (Friday). Home. Captain Maynard had come, and with Lieutenant Tainter kill’d a Young Swine of between 7 and 8 score. Neighbour Rogers salted down our pork, and Mr. Daniel Warrin of Shrewsbury brought me an Hive of Bees.

1749 March 18 (Saturday). I rode up to Worcester against a very Cold wind. Got up in season.

1749 March 19 (Sunday). After a very cold Night a very bright morning. I preach’d a. and p.m. on Eph. 3.8. N.B. Mr. Putnam,58 a Lawyer, diets at Mr. Maccartys. N.B. The Church Stop’d at Noon an[d] send me a prayer desiring me to give public Notice of their agreement to have a Contribution on the approaching Fast, for a person that had in years past dwelt in Worcester, but whose dwelling was lately consum’d. This I comply’d with—as well as their Custom of Reading publickly the holy Scriptures. I had purpos’d to tarry over the Sabbath and till Monday at Worcester, but because of the Fast approaching and the great likelihood of another storm, I set out at Eve and rode to Shrewsbury. Met Mr. Maccarty (who preach’d for me on 2 Cor. 6.2, and 2 Epistle of John 10.4). I lodg’d at Mr. Cushings, because of the Snow Storm which now came on. N.B. Master Job59 went off Friday night was sennight. Mr. Maccarty read Chapter 26 of Genesis and Matthew at Westborough. N.B. My wife went to meeting today; first after her Lying in. God’s Name be prais’d!

1749 March 20 (Monday). When I return’d home Several Letters were deliver’d me which my Brethren had sent me. My Eldest Brother60 in great concern for his only son61 who droops again and in much affliction by Mr. Nathaniel about his deceased son John’s Estate. Mr. Martyns boy here with a Letter to change next Sabbath.

1749 March 21 (Tuesday). Snow Storm again. Neighbour Pratt took my oxen to keep, for a short Space. Daniel Hastings came with his Cousen Benjamin Tainter, and agrees to work for me, without determining how long, or for how much but leaves it with his uncle Tainter. Little Breck not well.

1749 March 22 (Wednesday). Mr. Upham here. Several Neighbours came to get wood for me. Neighbour Eliezer Rice came with his Team, and my young man Daniel Hastings went with mine. Those that cutt were Messrs. Tinny, Noah How, Elijah and Adonijah and Edmund Rice and Benjamin Whipple. They got me a good pile of Excellent Solid Wood. N.B. Mr. Simon Tainter of Grafton here and brought me a Letter from Mr. Hall of Sutton, inclosing a Remarkable one from Mr. Edwards of Northampton to him to be communicated to me containing Extracts from Letters from Scotland of the Good Tokens respecting Religion in some very eminent Persons in Great Britain—some of the Royal Family, the Archbishop of Canterbury—Esquire West etc.—and in Holland, the prince of Orange. A great Interruption by the Company today in my preparations for the solemnity approaching. N.B. The school ceases.

1749 March 23 (Thursday). Public Fast. I preach’d on Isa. 58.1 to 7. N.B. Abraham Bond fainted in the Assembly.

1749 March 24 (Friday). In the Morning Mr. Upham here before he went home to his Fathers at Leicester.

1749 March 25 (Saturday). Daniel is preparing and bespeaking Cattle, that we may have a Team to break up. As for myself, am oblig’d to be closely Employ’d in my Preparations for the Sabbath.

1749 March 26 (Sunday). My Thoughts had wrought very much about my Preparations, having had but little Time, and many avocations and Encumbrances, in so large a Family. Yet God was pleas’d to assist beyond all my Deserts [sic]. I desire to bemoan my slothfulness and Negligence but would humbly rely upon the infinite Grace and Mercy of God in Christ to pardon my many Defects. I preach’d upon 1 John 3.3 a. and p.m. Mrs. (Beriah’s) Rice and Mrs. (John) Chamberlin din’d here.

1749 March 27 (Monday). I went abroad very Early because of what we had before us. Was at Mr. Nurse’s62 where I had a plough, and at Ebenezer Rice’s. With the following Team and assistance we broke up the ground next to the Swamp. Besides Daniel with my own Oxen, Neighbour John Rogers with his, Neighbour Tomlin with his, and Nathan Maynard with theirs; to which add Neighbour Benjamin Hows. P.M. Nathan Maynard drew off, and Stephen Maynard came to work in his room with another Yoke of Oxen, so that we had p.m. 12 Oxen and turn’d it over pritty well. Mr. Tomlin and Stephen Maynard gave in their work and their Cattle—Neighbour Rogers was very moderate in his Demands. Mr. Dunlop in the Garden the same Day.

1749 March 28 (Tuesday). Ebenezer came home from Harvard. I went over to visit Mr. Martyn p.m. but he was gone to Boston. Dr. Gott sick at Boston.

1749 March 29 (Wednesday). A.M. Visit Mrs. Deborah Brigham. P.M. to widow Crosby’s to buy a Cow, but did not succeed. At Mr. Joseph Knowltons. At Eve Mrs. Deborah Brigham worse, sent for me. I went at 9 Evening, Ebenezer with me. I conceive her to be under hysterical Disorders: But She Said it was through the Distress of her soul concerning her Eternal Condition.

1749 March 30 (Thursday). Lecture to Young People on Ps. 119.136. The widow Lucy Pratt,63 (heretofore Whipple) here about her Souls State. Deacon Miles from Boston, here at Even.

1749 March 31 (Friday). Rain, Snow, Hail.

1749 April 1 (Saturday). Snow. Receiv’d a Bundle of Young Vines, Trees and Branches from Monsieur [Stephen] Boutineau of Boston. Mr. Eliezer Rice here, who ask’d me whether I was to preach at the north side. I told him, yes.

1749 April 2 (Sunday). Preach’d at the North side on Mat. 25.46, former part. Mr. Martyn, for me on 1 Pet. 3.18. I lodg’d at Mr. Martyns.

1749 April 3 (Monday). Return’d home. Ebenezer and Daniel making Wall on the Southside of my Land joining to my Neighbour Ebenezer Maynard. Old Mr. Willson of Bolton here. Talk’d with him about his joining to the Church of England. Mr. Putnam of Worcester, Lawyer, here with a Letter from Mr. Maccarty desiring me to preach his Lecture on the 13, which I am oblig’d to deny because of the Fast at Sudbury and our own Lecture the same week.

1749 April 4 (Tuesday). Should have gone to the Funeral of Abijah Gale’s Child, but the Rain and some Rheumatick indispositions prevented. Edward Baker Esquire made me a visit, to ask me to preach at his House next Thursday.

1749 April 5 (Wednesday). Was somewhat troubled with Rhuematic pains. Hephzibah Crosby here. Neighbour David Batheric here. Mr. Jesse Maynard came here in behalf of Brother Jotham to carry away the Cart wheel which I had borrow’d of Captain Maynard.

1749 April 6 (Thursday). Preach’d at Edward Baker’s Esquire, on Mat. 26.41, and after Exercise I read some part of Mr. Edwards’s long Letter of Extracts etc. respecting Religion in Europe. At Merchant Rice’s at Evening—Daughter Molly with me.

1749 April 7 (Friday). Daniel Splitting thills[?], up by the House.

1749 April 8 (Saturday). Ebenezer ploughing Stubble Ground. P.M. Rheumatic Pains increas’d much in my right arm. A great hindrance to me—at Night especially.

1749 April 9 (Sunday). At first waking I did not expect to go to meeting. Yet growing better when I got up, I did; and preach’d all Day—Text 1 Tim. 6.12. Lay hold on Eternal Life. N.B. Mary Garfield64 of Shrewsbury (of about 22) fell into fitts in the Meeting House, was carry’d out and remov’d to my House. Her fitts were repeated in the Evening. She had some Number of them. Her mother and Two Brothers here; Mrs. Garfield and son Moses here with Mary over night. My son Ebenezer went about 9 at Night to Dr. Smith65—but he would not come.

1749 April 10 (Monday). Mary Garfields fitts are not only Histeric but convulsive—increas’d to strong Convulsions. At length her Father came. They undertook to get her home. Mrs. Miller (James junior’s wife) here to be examin’d. P.M. Mr. Batherick on the like account. Very Warm and Spring like. Ebenezer graffing Cyons from Cornet Bright of Watertown. Daniel ploughing Stubble ground.

1749 April 11 (Tuesday). Ebenezer a.m. works for Samuel Bumpso. Daniel ploughing stubble ground. A very fine pleasant, warm Day. P.M. Ebenezer graffing. Forbush who has been sick at College, here.

1749 April 12 (Wednesday). Undertook a Journey to Sudbury, it being the Day appointed by the Association for the First Fast on Consideration of the sad Signs of threatning Degeneracy and Defection in Religion. Rode first to Mrs. Deborah Brigham and pray’d with her. Thence (concluding Mr. Smith was gone) I went hastily to Deacon Tainters66 in Marlborough and so to Mr. Lorings. But he was surpriz’d to see me, he having put by the Fast by reason of his wife’s illness, and of this he had writ me a Line as he had done to other Members of the association but which I had never receiv’d nor knew one Lisp of till I got to Sudbury. After dining there, conversing with Madam Loring (who is Yet very low and weak) and Spending a little Time with Mr. Williams of Weston67 who (in his way to Harvard) call’d there, I return’d to Marlborough. A storm arising made me call at Mr. Jabez Wards—where was Mr. John Weeks, and others. Mr. Ward is selling his Place and going to New-Marlborough. Mr. Weeks intimates to me that they grow sick of Mr. Jenison68 who has hitherto kept School and preach’d among them. Stop’d a little with Mrs. Sally Gott69 to enquire about her Father. At Mr. Smiths70 into Evening yet got home and lodg’d at my own House. To God be praise and Thanks!

1749 April 13 (Thursday). Mr. Abraham Williams71 here. Tells me he has a Call at Sandwich—argues against the Duty of Fasting—calls it dressing up Religion in frightful Figures to terrifie Men—Says getting a Neighbour to kick ones shins or thrash one with an Horsewhip will do as well etc. He is going to Worcester to demand of Dr. Breck72 the Legacy his grandmother Breck left him.

1749 April 14 (Friday). Mr. Cushing preach’d my Lecture. His Text Ps. 130.3.4. Ebenezer and Daniel cart muck a.m. and after Lecture.

1749 April 15 (Saturday). Mr. Hancock of College call’d to know the Way to Mr. Martyns that he may Change with him tomorrow, by going to Grafton; and ask’d me to go next Sabbath.

1749 April 16 (Sunday). Sacrament. Read Genesis 29. Preach’d on 1 Cor. 11.31. Mr. Twitchell73 and wife (who are lately come to dwell in this precinct), widow Woods and Bekky Warrin din’d here. P.M. I read Mark 1. Preach’d on 1 Sam. 16.5, those words “Come with me to the Sacrifice.” The Body of the Exercise was sermon on 1 Cor. 10.16, from page 16 to the End of page 22. Mr. Martyn here both going to and returning from Grafton to Day—tells me Deacon Cooper has been dead this fortnight.

1749 April 17 (Monday). A Precinct Meeting—partly to provide for raising the New Meeting House, and among divers other Things to See whether they would pull off the Covering and Closing of the old Meeting House and Use them upon the New—but could not obtain a vote to meddle with it.74 N.B. I sent in a Letter, which the Moderator (Esquire Baker) receiv’d; but without reading to the precinct, order’d to be return’d to me, which Lieutenant Forbush accordingly did. N.B. Captain Maynard here a.m. Also Mrs. Batherick. N.B. Mr. D. Hemingway the Carpenter began to work in Framing of the New Meeting House. In the Morning I visited Mary Garfield who is now very weak and low, but expresses herself very sensibly and graciously.

1749 April 18 (Tuesday). Catechiz’d at the Meeting House both a. and p.m. Very Cool Weather. Ebenezer and Daniel ridering the upper Fence.

1749 April 19 (Wednesday). Last night rose out of my Bed and marry’d Joseph Rice75 and Eunice Harrington. This morning a great Frost. Brother Hicks here. My wife and I rode over to Mr. Martyns—carry’d little Breck—we din’d there. Mr. Cushing came there. Return’d well at Evening.

1749 April 20 (Thursday). Ebenezer and Daniel digging Stones for the South Wall between Mr. Ebenezer Maynard and me. Dr. Breck and his Wife came to see me. Doctor had unhappily turn’d over his Chair in coming and hurt one of his Hands: he was sick at Dinner and rose from the Table. Old Mrs. Whipple and her Granddaughter Pratt here. Mrs. Pratt in Distress about her Spiritual State. N.B. Forbush76 here—wants opportunity to talk with me, and with my wife that all Grounds of Offence in his acquaintance with Molly and his Conduct about her may be removed. Being in a low State of Health, he is going over to live at Dr. Scammells.77

1749 April 21 (Friday). Ebenezer and Daniel making Stone Wall, on the South side. A very warm Day. There seems to be great Need of Rain: but God who is the Father of Rain takes Care.

1749 April 22 (Saturday). Though I sent by Brother Hicks on the 19th to Mr. Belcher Hancock of College that I could not well change with him yet he came at Evening. My English Hay is gone (having kept my Young Horse over Winter) which was beyond my Design, and hereby I became too much straitened. N.B. Ebenezer and Daniel making Stone Wall on the Southside, and not finish’d yet.

1749 April 23 (Sunday). In the Morning I rode to Grafton for Mr. Hancock. Was entertain’d at Mr. Isaac Harringtons. I preach’d a.m. on Jer. 3.15. At the Earnest Request of Mr. Joseph Axtell78 and his Wife I preach’d to her at Evening at their House, She having lain Sometime under great Affliction and long confin’d from the Public Worship. My Text 1 Thess. 1.10 last Clause. Rode home the Same Night following. Mr. Hancocks Text 1 John 3.19.

1749 April 24 (Monday). Mr. Hancock and I rode over the Mr. Martyns where were Mrs. Monis and the late Colonel Vassals79 widow (who came up with him last Saturday) and I waited on them a few Miles—Mr. Martyn and his wife further, in their Journey to Cambridge. I returned home by the way of Ensign Rice’s and prevail’d with him to Spare me some Hay. N.B. Captain Maynard came to See me at my House and we have much Discourse about our Trouble by the Meeting-House being carry’d away from us. Samuel Bumpso worked with my Young Men in finishing the Wall on the southside and building a wall at the Back of my House. N.B. It grows a very dry Time. Very high winds. The Fires raged last Night and this at Hopkinton.

1749 April 25 (Tuesday). Read the Life of Colonel Gardner.80 Daniel finishes the Wall in the back Yard from the East to the orchard Barrs. Ebenezer begins to plough for planting.

1749 April 26 (Wednesday). Mrs. Hephzibah Maynard81 here a.m. Much Troubled about the New Meeting House place. Ebenezer work’d with Noah How, getting out Rails for him in Lieu of an 100 which he says my Hands carted away from him—but inadvertently. Daniel ploughing. P.M. Mrs. Lucy Pratt here, on her Spiritual Concerns. N.B. Brother Hicks here from Cambridge. He confirms the sad news of Mr. J. Davenports House as being burnt in Watertown on the 24th and of other Burnings in divers Towns. N.B. He and I finish’d a Troublesome affair that had lain some time between him and me.

1749 April 27 (Thursday). Daniel ploughing. Ebenezer variously employ’d about the fences round the Yards etc. In the forenoon I was oblig’d to go down to Mr. Cook’s to fasten my Horse’s Shooes. Mr. Daniel Forbush82 was there. He took Notice I had not yet been to the Timber (where they were framing the Meeting House). I told him I was going to preach to Mr. Martyns people. He said he believ’d the Committee would be glad (he doubted not) of Such an opportunity to Send a message by me to Mr. Martyn. He spoke in a much Earnestness and intimating that they were at the Frame, who would thus be glad, and that they would send to my House. I went from thence to see old Mrs. Forbush83 (nigh 85 years of age). But when I came out from her, I thought it would be best to ride round by the Meeting House place to give ‘em opportunity and prevent their Sending on purpose to my House and as Mr. Forbush aforesaid intimated they would. I therefore came home that way. Captain Baker and Lieutenant Bruce84 were very complaisant. I enquir’d whether the work went on well and how forward they were etc.? They told me that Time that they had last night agreed upon for the Raising Day—viz. Next Wednesday—But that they intended to send to me and to the Neighbouring Ministers, But as there was but one of the Committee there, Captain Baker, there could be no public message as yet to Mr. Martyn. I put ‘em in mind to Send without Fail to his Spouse also. One Mr. Hastings, a Carpenter, brought me their bottle and offer’d to give me a Dram—which gave me occasion to talk with them about their offering (as I had heard) their Bottle to Travellers to beg of them as they pass’d in the high way: I talk’d with the Chief Workman Mr. Hemingway, but he vindicated himself. I told him I had rather give ‘em, myself, Every Penny of what they Should so Collect—and I took out my Book to pay him what they Said had been given though they Said it was only by Such as had turn’d aside to see them and that only by Two persons—one of which gave 3/, the other 1/. I parted as decently as I could professing my Concern to have Every Thing carry’d on in Righteousness, Peace and Honour. Esquire Baker, in his Conversation, inform’d me that at the Meeting last Night (which was of Such of the Inhabitants of the precinct as pleas’d to Show their Minds about the Provision they would make for the Raising) Some that were disaffected brought in a Petition to the Committee to raise a Meeting, if possible to remove the Spot for the Meeting House. But it was too late, and he said it could be thought no other than Vexations, design’d so—by its being brought at this Time. Molly rode with me over to Mr. Martyns—Mr. Cushing and his wife came. We din’d there. The Drought So great that I turn’d my Thoughts from other Subjects, and preach’d (the Lecture) from Jer. 14.22. The Lord grant us to acknowledge Him in all His Dispensations and wait on Him alone for Supply and Relief! In returning at Evening was in Danger at the Bridge by means of my Horse’s Fright and Springing, at the loose Planks, especially one that was broken, but was safely upheld and got over without hurt.

1749 April 28 (Friday). Daniel finish’d ploughing the Field a.m. and plough’d the Yards by the House. The Beds of the Garden, by the Drought and by the Fowl, chiefly destroy’d. Mr. Walker of Nichewoag, who took Care of my Cattle last Year, was here. Agreed to give him 45 shillings for the Care of the Cattle, and 20/ for his pains after one of them could not get up (by 8 miles) At the Time of Driving up.

1749 April 29 (Saturday). After great and distressing Drought, there came this Day a refreshing Rain. Colonel Hendsell85 and his Spouse came in, but tarried not long. Ebenezer and Daniel planting the Yards. Had the Comfort of being seasonably prepar’d for the Sabbath. Deacon Newton came and in the Name of the Committee of the Precinct invited me and my wife to the Raising of the Meeting House next Wednesday.

1749 April 30 (Sunday). Preach’d all Day upon Ps. 119.60. Read a.m. Gen. 31, p.m. Mark 3. N.B. I gave the People a fervent Caution and Exhortation respecting their Conduct on the design’d Raising of a new Meeting House.

1749 May 1 (Monday). Ebenezer and Daniel began to plant the Fields of Indian Corn. Mr. Phinehas Hardy kindly Sent his Son Noah to assist in it. Visited Mrs. Tainter who is ill, and din’d there. N.B. Benjamin Kicked and hurt by one of their Horses but revived.

1749 May 2 (Tuesday). Visited Mrs. Deborah Brigham who is yet ill. P.M. Was Sent for by the Society at the Framing the design’d Meeting House, to go and pray with them as they were now going to lay the Groundsills of the House. The persons who came with the message were Messrs. Biglo and Daniel Hardy. I went and pray’d with them and after prayer I put them in mind of what I had Said to them on the Lords Day past. N.B. a very Cold Wind—fear I took Cold. Indeed my Heart was too Cold, at least was very difficulty brought to this Work. I find Indeed a great deal of Wisdom and Grace to go through what is now called for. O that God would grant that as the Day is So my Strength may be! Finish’d planting.

1749 May 3 (Wednesday). A.M. came Mr. Martyn and his Wife; Mr. Cushing also, and Mr. Stone and din’d with us. After Dinner we all rode over to the Raising of the New Meeting House. Mr. Barrett likewise came: and a great Concourse of people. The Frame went up well; and through God’s great Goodness, Neither Life nor Limb lost. The only Hurt I have heard of was by the Fall of a Board which graz’d a man’s forehead but Slightly. But the Impudence of Young Men with the Young Women was with them very Shameless. I was obliged to go and reprove several. Reverend Mr. Cushing, Barrett, Martyn and Stone refresh’d themselves with me at Deacon Newtons.86 Mr. Cushing (when all the Timber was in place and the Frame compleated) Pray’d and gave Thanks. After which we sang Ps. 13.10.13–16 and there was a plentiful Entertainment. Mr. Barrett carved; Mr. Martyn Return’d Thanks after Supper. When the Company drew off we repair’d again to Deacon Newtons. N.B. Forbush brought a message from Mr. Frost87 of Mill-River to desire me to change with him next Lords Day. I Spake of it to the Ministers, and Mr. Barrett oppos’d it, without Mr. Frost would retract his having an Hand in ordaining Mr. Reed88 of Framingham. Mr. Martyn Seconded him so that I sent this return that I could not, but would be glad to see him and converse with him.

1749 May 4 (Thursday). Daniel did not come to work today, many Watertown Friends of his being at his uncles. Mr. Joseph Phillips of Oxford here and din’d with us. P.M. Ebenezer went to help Neighbour Ebenezer Maynard. David Forbush and Anna Whitney89 married. At Eve Daniel came and Sarah Harrington. Nathan Maynard and Benjamin Whipple in the Name of their Society (together with Ebenezer) presented me Daniel as desirous to be admitted among them, but I was not ready for an Answer, he having been but a little while among us.

1749 May 5 (Friday). Rainy a.m. Daniel makes a pair of Shooes for Alexander. P.M. Showery yet Ebenezer and Daniel went to the Ministerial Meadow to mend up the Fence.

1749 May 6 (Saturday). Considerable Storm of Rain. My Mare foal’d.

1749 May 7 (Sunday). A.M. read Genesis 32. Preach’d a. and p.m. on Ps. 119.60. P.M. was very much mov’d. Verba fuerunt Ardentia.90 May God set them home on the Hearts of the Hearers! P.M. read Mark 4. N.B. Old Mrs. Whipple din’d with us.

1749 May 8 (Monday). Daniel Hastings sett out o’foot for Watertown. A.M. Mr. Mede91 here. Lent Mr. Mead my Dult. Histor. both volumes. P.M. I went over to Neighbour Elijah Rice’s, Tinneys,92 and John Chamberlins—gather’d some Hair.

1749 May 9 (Tuesday). Five of my Cattle were driven by Mr. Francis Whipple etc. to Nichewoag. Ebenezer assisted as far as Shrewsbury. Ebenezer upon the Fences—middle Pasture. P.M. I rode round by Mr. Cooks to Mr. Nurse’s, to Mr. Eliezer Rice’s (his wifes sister being lately dead) and to both the Whipples. N.B. Old Mrs. Whipples Hair.

1749 May 10 (Wednesday). Molly went to Cambridge with Mr. Beriah Rice and his son Asaph. I accompany’d her as far as Mr. Daniel Warrins. Ebenezer a.m. looking up the sheep. P.M. he Carted Stones for Wall. Dr. Crawford and his Brother with their wives here. Sam Bumpso buying Land of Mr. Axtell, desires me to lend him money, which I did. Mrs. Miller here again. Reading Sir Isaac Newton on Daniel and the Revelations.

1749 May 11 (Thursday). I rode over to the Northside. Din’d at Mr. Jacob Rice’s—he not at home. He was gone to Lancaster to fetch Brick for Mr. Martyn. I went to Mr. James Balls to look of an Heiffer (which I bought) his price and which I agreed to was 20£ old Tenor. N.B. David Bates, an Young Man, there, who was bit by a Rattle snake last Tuesday. I was at Mr. Billings’s93 and at Mr. Asa Bowkers where was Mr. Cushing. Return’d at Evening.

1749 May 12 (Friday). Town Meeting to Choose a Representative. Mr. Francis Whipple Chose. At Eve Cousen Nathaniel Parkman (Ame and Daniel Hastings)—my Kinsman much out of Health: is come to tarry a while with us for Change of Air.

1749 May 13 (Saturday). Very Hot. P.M. Mr. Cushing here. I rode to Shrewsbury.

1749 May 14 (Sunday). Preach’d at Shrewsbury a. and p.m. on Jer. 8.4.5. I read there a.m. Genesis 36, p.m. Mark 8. Baptiz’d Two Children. Job son of Deacon Miles,94 and Submitt of Benjamin Maynard. At Mr. Cushings Desire I acquainted the Church etc. with the design’d association Fast, and invited them to attend. At Eve I went in to Colonel Wards95 to Weep with him and his Family, he being bereaved of his son Ithamar, of about 28 or 9 years by the Small Pox. He dy’d at the Pest House below Boston. I return’d home. Mr. Cushing was on if once the Master of the House be risen up and put to the Door, etc.

1749 May 15 (Monday). Daniel and Ebenezer look’d up and walk’d sheep a. and p.m. Wall behind the House p.m.

1749 May 16 (Tuesday). Held a Catechetical Exercise. Exposition of the Sixth Commandment. Daniel and Ebenezer on the wall northwest of the House.

1749 May 17 (Wednesday). My Kinsman and I rode to Shrewsbury, Mr. Stone with us—to the Association Fast on the Account of the Declension in Religion. There were present Messrs. Loring, Cushing, Martyn, Stone, Seccomb, Smith, Davis, Mellen. Mr. Cushing pray’d (in publick) and Mr. Mellen preach’d on John 13.17. P.M. There came a Letter to the Association sign’d Edward Goddard, Bragg, Simon Goddard and Benjamin Goddard manifesting their Dissent to the Fast—but no Notice was taken of it by the Association. N.B. Colonel Nahum Ward went to Boston the same Day—and said something to me of the ministers giving their people so little warning of the Fast—intimated also that he thought we had better lay the matter before our Churchs. N.B. Mr. Maccarty admitted. Mr. Swain96 among us. N.B. The Association voted to have the Report of the Committee which contains the sum and substance of the answer etc. to be inserted in the Book of their Minutes. We return’d at Evening.

1749 May 18 (Thursday). My Son Ebenezer and Daughter Lucy, together with my Kinsman rode over to Upton.

1749 May 19 (Friday). Daniel carry’d out the whole of our Ashes upon the New Ground, planted with Indian Corn.

1749 May 20 (Saturday). Ebenezer and Lucy with our Kinsman return’d from Upton. Ebenezer work’d with Daniel p.m.

1749 May 21 (Sunday). A.M. Read Genesis 34. Preach’d on Prov. 14.19. P.M. read Mark 6, and repeated (for a sermon) with alterations (omissions and additions) my Exposition on Mat. 14.1–12 which is the parallel to Mark 6.14–29.

1749 May 22 (Monday). Was at Mr. Cooks, and likewise visited Neighbour Abner Newton under his Confinement and illness, and I din’d there—p.m. My Kinsman and Ebenezer rode over to Mr. Martyns. Daniel is clearing the lower end of the South Orchard. Mr. Samuel Williams and Mr. Charles Rice here. Abigail Baker making Stays here.

1749 May 23 (Tuesday). Ebenezer and Daniel began to weed. My Kinsman rides Every Day; and has somewhat better Stomach but is often in Sinking Dejection. A.M. frequently in some Trouble about young people’s disorderly night walking: have now Such a Number (My son Ebenezer, Daniel Hastings, Abigail Baker97 and Sarah Harrington) of young persons in my own Family that it causes me some Perplexity when my own do walk contrary to the advice and Counsel which I am frequently giving them.

1749 May 24 (Wednesday). Jonathan Bruce98 was marry’d to Hannah Beeman.99

1749 May 25 (Thursday). Preach’d the Lecture myself on 1 Cor. 11.29. N.B. I us’d the answer to Scruple 4th in Sermon on 1 Cor. 10.16 page 27 to 31.

1749 May 26 (Friday). Kinsman went home with Abigail Baker.

1749 May 27 (Saturday). Thomas came from Sudbury, to See us. Tells me how extreme the Drought is at Sudbury.

1749 May 28 (Sunday). Sacrament. Read Genesis 35. Preach’d on 1 Cor. 11.31. P.M. read Mark 7. Preach’d on 1 Sam. 16.5, using sermon on 1 Cor. 10.16, from page 23 to 27 and from 31 to the End, with Additions on Rom. 14.23.

1749 May 29 (Monday). My Kinsman Nathaniel (on Mr. James Bowman’s Horse) Set out with me for Boston. We din’d at Mr. Farrars100 in Framingham after a turn of Fishing in his River—lodg’d at Captain Tainters at Watertown—my Kinsman being much worn with the Journey thus far.

1749 May 30 (Tuesday). Went into Boston. Put up my Horse at Mrs. Keggells.101 N.B. We had Stopp’d a While at Cambridge, and gave Deacon Whittemore order to deliver my Chair to Benjamin Hastings of Watertown; which I understand since, he accordingly did. Din’d at Mr. Proctors.102 Mr. Sweetzer has made me a new dark brown Wigg. Besides the Hair I provided, it cost me £4.14.0, and Mr. Eaton a Bever Hatt, 12£.

1749 May 31 (Wednesday). Mr. William Balch of Bradford preach’d the Election Sermon. The Day exceeding Hot. Din’d at Mr. Olivers—his Father and mother, and Brother and sister Lowden din’d there also. P.M. at Convention. Mr. Barnard103 of Marblehead moderator. The Report of a Committee appointed last year, to consider of a Fund for society for Propagating the Gospel among the Indians took up much of the Time and was adjourn’d. Lodg’d at Brother Parkmans.

1749 June 1 (Thursday). I attended the Convention. Was at the sermon. Mr. Barnard104 of Andover preach’d on 2 Cor. 4.1. The Contribution amounted to £ [blank]. I din’d at Mr. Cooper’s.105 P.M. I was so unavoidably taken up with my affairs that I could not go again to the Convention. My Horse was kept in the New North Meeting House Yard. Supp’d at Mr. Olivers. Lodg’d at Dr. Parkman’s. The Distresses by the Drought very great. I meet with no man, not the oldest, that has ever known Such a Drought so Early in the Year.

1749 June 2 (Friday). I Set out from Boston (Mrs. Keggelll having been so handsome as to charge nothing for my Horse keeping). The Heat was very great—call’d at Captain Sharps.106 Mr. Cotton Brown107 lodges there. I din’d at Mr. Benjamin Hastings in Watertown. Ephraim Holland p.m. my Company great part of the way up. Got home in the Night.

1749 June 3 (Saturday). Our Hearts are pained for the parch’d Earth and wither’d Grass. I understand that some people are oblig’d to turn their Cattle into their mowing ground.

1749 June 4 (Sunday). Read (by Mistake) Genesis 37—preach’d on Micah 6.2. P.M. read Mark 8. At Eve visited Bethia Tylor who lys sick at Mr. Tennys.

1749 June 5 (Monday). Visited Neighbour Tomlin and Bethia Tyler. Catechiz’d both a. and p.m. at the Meeting House. The Earth is grown extremely dry. May God have Mercy on His people!

1749 June 6 (Tuesday). I feel very poorly—Weak and faint. Hot, burning Season.

1749 June 7 (Wednesday). Mr. Swain (preacher at Grafton) came to see me, and din’d here. P.M. Mr. Breck108 came and Mr. Swain to Grafton. In the Night refreshing Showers. To God by [sic] the Glory! Thunder and Lightning. May God grant us the Grace we need, that we may improve his Favours to his Glory! and may He be pleas’d to grant further needed supplys!

1749 June 8 (Thursday). Mr. Breck set out for Springfield. Cool bright Day. But I feel heavy whilst universal Nature is reviv’d and rejoic’d.

1749 June 9 (Friday). Sarah Henry came up from Boston, her aunt Hastings her Company, who with her Son Benjamin came up in my Chair. The Honourable Captain Goddard109 and his son Benjamin here, in their way to Framingham. Benjamin Hastings, Sarah and Elizabeth Tainter lodg’d here. Showers in the Night. Ebenezer and Daniel getting Rails and Posts.

1749 June 10 (Saturday). Mrs. Hastings and her son Benjamin, Sarah and Elizabeth Tainter din’d with us. Several Excellent Showers very reviving and refreshing. Glory to God! Neighbour Eliezer Rice here. He pretends to ask my Leave for Dr. Green110 to preach at his House—but I warn’d him against it. Ebenezer and Daniel setting out Cabbage and Tobacco Plants—and began to half-Hill the Indian Corn. Receiv’d Sundrys from Molly by Mr. Ebenezer Rice.

1749 June 11 (Sunday). I read Genesis 36 and Mark 9 to 10.30. Preach’d a. and p.m. on Prov. 14.9 former part. Some Number Din’d with us. Mrs. Tainter and her sister Hastings, Benjamin Hastings, Eli Forbush, Mrs. Chaddock, Mrs. Deborah Brigham and Rebecca Warrin. Read the Proclamation for the public Fast.

1749 June 12 (Monday). Daniel and Ebenezer hoeing. A.M. I visited Bethiah Tyler and Mr. Tomlin. P.M. Cornelius Biglo junior came for me to visit his aged Grandmother Graves.111 I went but She dy’d before I got there. Visit Neighbour Jonah Warrins Daughter Betty—and Neighbour Hezekiah Pratts infant who are sick.

1749 June 13 (Tuesday). The Drought very great. An hot Morning. Lieutenant Hezekiah Ward, was by appointment at Mr. Charles Rice’s to measure the controverted Land, but he was content to wave the work and return home, and he did so. I visited Mr. Abner Newton. I talk’d earnestly against Dr. Greens preaching among us: I hope to Effect. My Young Men are at their half-hilling to Day, and Neighbour John Rogers helps them. They finish’d some time before Sun setting. There goes a great Storm of Thunder and Rain to the Northward. Scarce any Drops here.

1749 June 14 (Wednesday). At Mrs. Graves’s Funeral a.m. Very Hot. Ebenezer and Daniel mowing. I have but little Time to prepare for the Fast approaching.

1749 June 15 (Thursday). Public Fast on Account of the Great Drought. I preach’d on 2 Chron. 6.26.27.31. I thought it best to deliver my whole Preparation in one Exercise, though it takes me an Hour and quarter to deliver it, then to break the Discourse, and loose the warmth and Force by dividing it. P.M. from Amos 4.6 and 7, I also have given you etc.—Yet have ye not return’d unto me saith the Lord. I undertook to Shew that though God had inflicted on us many Judgments yet we did not turn to Him as he justly might expect we Should, and though it might seem to us that we did much in returning to Him, yet he Saw and knew us better—and I Enquired into this Matter more distinctly, to see what men might do, and yet there might be no true returning, and for Reply to this Enquiry, I used again those Articles in sermon on Acts [blank] from page 3 to page [blank]. And I hope it was, by Gods Blessing somewhat Beneficial. But O that God would give us the Grace to see what we are, turn us, and have mercy on us!

1749 June 16 (Friday). My Wife and I (now first) rode out in our Chair to visit Mr. Tomlin and Bethiah Tyler—but we proceeded as far as to Mr. Martyns and din’d there. We made our propos’d visits as we came back. I was indispos’d when I went out, and by means of the Great Heat, I grew much worse. When I return’d home, Mr. Charles Brigham was here; but I was So ill, I could not converse with him. I appointed him a Time to come again.

1749 June 17 (Saturday). After a very ill night I rose somewhat comfortable. Blessed be God! The prospects abroad extremely Melancholly and sorrowful. My people mowing—but yet next to nothing for their pains. I gave them order to fence off Some of the Ground for pasture. Mr. Samuel Harrington here with veal, a present to me—which was very acceptable—my Stomach being very poor. Very Hot Time—as if we should be burnt up with the Drought. I was little more than hanging about all Day.

1749 June 18 (Sunday). In the Morning I rode over (according to agreement) to Mr. Martyns, and he came hither. I preach’d to his people on Heb. 3.17.18 and p.m. what I deliver’d to my own the afternoon of the Fast from Amos 4.6.7. Mr. Martyn on 2 Pet. 3.18. Extreme Hot Day. (So that Cakes of Chocolate melted on the Shelves though they lay Single. It was So both at my House and at Mr. Martyns.) In returning at Eve we met at Mr. Tomlins, and pray’d with him.

1749 June 19 (Monday). Another Hot Day Still, but not so hot as Yesterday. Mr. Charles Brigham of Grafton examin’d. Aaron Warrin came to desire me to go over immediately to see his sister Betty—went on Captain Maynards Horse. A multitude gathered there to See her. Dr. Miles there. Mr. Daniel Hardy paid me above sixty five pounds old Tenor. Forbush came home with me. Brother Hicks here going to Boston in the Night.

1749 June 20 (Tuesday). Clear but cooler. Reckon’d with Captain Maynard and settl’d with him not only for the Year last past, but likewise in the Affair of his Rate in the 82£ which Mr. Billings was to have gather’d for the Year 44 from June 5 to October 20. Mr. Beton putts on Clouts upon the Axeltree of my Chair.

1749 June 21 (Wednesday). I rode to Sudbury to Association Fast. But few there. Only Mr. Stone, Mr. Smith and Mr. Davis. Afterwards came Mr. Gardner.112 Not even Mr. Cook113 there. P.M. Mr. Bridge114 of Framingham came. Mr. Loring pray’d a.m. and Mr. Davis preach’d Text Rom. 2.25. P.M. Mr. Smith pray’d and Mr. Gardner preach’d. Text Habac. 3.2. N.B. Ebenezer and Forbush went in my Chair, in order to go to Cambridge, but they turn’d in to Sudbury meeting in the Afternoon. It prov’d an Hot Day. I return’d as far as Marlborough; lodg’d at Mr. Smiths with Mr. Davis.

1749 June 22 (Thursday). Was at Mr. Ephraim Brighams, at Mr. Edward Barns’s (where I bought Cheese), din’d at Deacon Matthias Rice’s115 (whose wife presented me with a Cheese) and then I return’d home. Here had been Mr. Solomon Reed and his Wife from New Haven and brought a kind Letter from Mrs. Pierpoint. Brother Hicks from Boston. Sorrowful Accounts of the Prevalence of the Drought. From Different Parts of the Province we hear that the Fish die in the Rivers through the Scantiness and heat of Waters. Hear that people in Marlborough have met (divers of them) to Fast and pray, and propose to again tomorrow.

1749 June 23 (Friday). Daniel mows over much Ground for only a Cock or Two of Hay.

1749 June 24 (Saturday). Was at the Funeral of Elizabeth Warrin. Daniel did not work p.m.

1749 June 25 (Sunday). Preach’d a.m. on 2 Sam. 21.14 last Clause. P.M. on 1 Thess. 4.7, repeating part of Sermon on Titus 2.12, from page 47 to 54 inclusive. We read Genesis 40 and Mark 11. Propounded Mr. Charles Brigham of Grafton in order to his joining in full Communion with this Church. Mrs. Margaret How din’d with us.

1749 June 26 (Monday). Daniel mow’d and rak’d behind the Barn. Before night he broke off to go to Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s. It look’d like Rain but signs go over.

1749 June 27 (Tuesday). Daniel began his hilling. Sometimes lowering, and dropp’d but not enough to lay the Dust. Heard that at Lieutenant Tainters divers people met to pray together. I had recommended it to him on sabbath Eve last. I visited Mr. Stephen Fay—his uncle—and was at Mr. Benjamin Fay’s: also at Mr. Pratts to see his sick Child.

1749 June 28 (Wednesday). I rode to Mr. Bavericks and Spent some Time with his wife about her Spiritual State. Rode to Marlborough and preach’d the Lecture for Mr. Smith on Hab. 3.17.18. It was a Cloudy Day and Sometimes Misty, but did not rain much. At Evening in the Mist I rode over to Mr. Stones and lodg’d there. Alas how different his House is become!

1749 June 29 (Thursday). In the Morning Mr. Stone and I rode over to the Fast at Mr. Smiths116 at Hopkinton. He desir’d it on account of his two sons Nathaniel and Richard, and Two Daughters likewise, who had fallen into very gross, familistical Errors. We went first to Mr. Barretts117—and thence to Mr. Smiths. Some of the Children were there in the forenoon—all of them in the Afternoon. Mr. Barrett pray’d in the first Exercise, Mr. Stone preach’d from Isa. 63.17. And Mr. Porter118 of Sherbourn concluded with prayer. P.M. Mr. Bridge pray’d. I preach’d from 2 Cor. 11.3, and Mr. Prentice119 of Holliston concluded. After the Exercises we had some Discourse with Nat Smith120 but to very little purpose. I lodg’d at Mr. Barrets.121 N.B. Mr. Webb122 of Chatham there, a Candidate for the Church of England.

1749 June 30 (Friday). Rode home Early. Brought over Mr. Henry123 Volume 1. Daniel has been hoeing and he has finish’d the Long piece, and the New Ground. Ebenezer does not come from Cambridge. Have heard it is Commencement there to Day. Hot and Dry Weather still. May the God of infinite Mercy and pity look upon his Weary Heritage!

1749 July 1 (Saturday). Yesterday and the Day before when I was at Hopkinton there was considerable said in Conversation, of poor Mr. Woodwell that went to Canada for his Daughter: fearing he was lost—but last Night he came to Captain Maynards and this morning was at my House. But his Daughter was not with him: he had not obtain’d as yet, her Redemption. At Eve came Ebenezer and Forbush in my Chair, drawn by Lieutenant Tainters Horse, from Cambridge, Having been gone 10 working Days: but no Evil had befallen him as I began to fear there had. An Hot and very drying Day. Corn curls pritty much. Every Thing looks very languishing but English Grain.

1749 July 2 (Sunday). A Very burning Day. A.M. read Genesis 41 and preach’d on 2 Sam. 21.14. P.M. read Mark 12, and in preaching carry’d on the Same Design of the forenoon, but made great use of sermon on Tit. 2.12, though with many alterations, frequently mixing Reflections and Exhortations to Repentance. Our Prayers were fervent for the Divine Compassion under the sore and grievous Drought. A Storm, with Thunder and Lightning arose at Eve, but there was but a gentle Shower of Rain. N.B. One of my Young Geese in the Road was found gasping and dy’d—either by the Heat or for Thirst: the Throat, the Grass in it being dry and hard.

1749 July 3 (Monday). In the Morning Daniel mow’d the Barley, of which there seems to be, through Gods Goodness, a midling Crop. Ebenezer and Daniel mow’d in the Lower Orchard, Northside the Road. There was a sprinkling of Rain in the Morning, but the Clouds soon grew thin. I have been inform’d that Dr. Green is like to preach at Mr. Eliezer Rice’s, and that tomorrow is to be the Day. I wrote a Letter and got it ready to lodge at one or other of the Houses where he practices Physick—and again I heard it was put off. But I took my Horse and rode to the several Houses, viz. to Mr. Abner Newtons and Mr. Hezekiah Pratts—but found he was not to come again till they sent for him: but that the Mutual Desires aforesaid about his preaching were the Same.

1749 July 4 (Tuesday). I visited Mr. Tomlin and Bethial Tyler. Ebenezer and Daniel Hilling and mowing. About Noon came Mr. Jotham Brown with my son Thomas from Sudbury—the Times being so distressing, he had neither work nor plentifull provisions—and since he had Nothing to do in the shop, he thought if my son work’d abroad, it ought to be for Me, and not for him—but when it Should please God to raise us out of this Calamity then he would Send for him again.

1749 July 5 (Wednesday). Ebenezer and Thomas reaping Rye, of which I have a very likely piece. D.G. Daniel Hill’d. Mr. Martyn and his Spouse together with Mr. Barrett din’d here. Mr. Barrett preach’d my Lecture on Ps. 42.4. The Lord quicken us hereby.

1749 July 6 (Thursday). The most reviving Morning that we have seen this long Time, for through the undeserv’d Mercy and Goodness of God, we had a fine Rain. It prov’d a rainy Day. Blessed be God! Went p.m. to Lieutenant Tainters and preach’d at the Private Meeting. Text Mat. 26.41. After Exercise there was an handsome Entertainment at which were Esquire Baker and his wife, and some Number besides. Call’d at Mr. Williams’s to see his wife.

1749 July 7 (Friday). Daniel Hastings here. I reckon’d with him and paid him all (for 3 Months and 4 Days—Scil. 10£ old Tenor per Month, and for the odd Days 10 shillings per Day) 32£ old Tenor. Cloudy Day, but little Rain. Ebenezer and Thomas plough’d the Barley Stubble, there being much Barley left among the stones which they could not rake.

1749 July 8 (Saturday). Rain in the Morning. Clear’d off afterwards So that Ebenezer and Thomas hoed Rye into the Indian Hills—but could not meddle with the Hay that lies out both in Cock and Swarth. N.B. A Letter from Mr. Buckminster124 of Rutland giving my Information of Dinah Downing.

1749 July 9 (Sunday). A.M. read Genesis 42. Preach’d on 1 Cor. 11.31. P.M. read Mark 13. Preach’d from Hos. 3.5—fear the Lord and his Goodness—but partly carry’d on my Scheme from 2 Sam. 21.14. Administer’d the Lords Supper also this Day. Mr. Ezekiel Upham and Daniel Hastings brought Elisha Coolidge125 of Watertown to dine here. Bad News of Mr. Abraham Williams126 of Sandwich being lost.

1749 July 10 (Monday). An heavy Rain. Showery great part of the Day. Daniel after Dinner rode off for Watertown. Neighbours Eliezer Rice and Edwards Whipple here. Ebenezer and Thomas mow’d and then Hoed a little.

1749 July 11 (Tuesday). I went out a.m. to visit Several Familys. Was at Mr. Moses Brighams and Mr. Eleazer Pratt’s—Mrs. Pratt follow’d with her Fits yet—last night she was much Exercis’d with them. Din’d at Mr. Grouts. My Horse was put out at Mr. Jonas Childs (who expected me to have din’d there) while I went to my Exercise. Cathechiz’d at the South School-House—about 56 or 58, Children attended. After Exercise I was refresh’d at Mr. Jonas Childs and Forbush was with me. We went also to Ensign Millers, where Forbush read his account of the Ordination or anointing of one Hovey127 at Mill-river. In my returning home I understood that Dr. Green was So conversant with Stephan Fay that it was very likely, he would Shortly preach among us. News of Mr. Abraham Williams that he preach’d at Concord last Lords Day. The Face of the Earth is much renew’d since the late Rains. Showery all Day. Some Hay has laid out till tis almost rotten—it being a very muggy growing season.

1749 July 12 (Wednesday). Sir Dodge here. Confirms the account which Forbush gave of Mill river, he also having been present at Said Ordination. Mr. Jonas Warren of Upton here in order to get Dodge, a new Batchelour, to preach which I disswaded. At Night Daniel Hastings return’d and brought me very Sorrowful News of Mollys being very Sick and nigh to Death (if yet alive) and desiring earnestly to see me.

1749 July 13 (Thursday). Hinder’d in the Morning so long as to have my Horse’s Shooes rectify’d and fasten’d, and one Shooe put on. Got down to Mr. Hastings’s at Watertown so as to dine there—to Cambridge about 2 p.m. My visit was to my Daughter though the Crowd was going by to the Gallows with Mary Rogers,128 alias Elizabeth Richardson, alias etc. My Molly was very low, having Fever and sore Throat. N.B. Forbush got down by 10 a.m. As to the vile Woman who was carry’d up to the place of Execution She Seem’d somewhat affected but Said very little—though the Terrible Instruments of Death were before her, the Rope about her Neck, her Coffin before her etc.—and the Sheriff bid her prepare for Death, for he had no further Reprieve for her—But Colonel Brattle129 read her Pardon and Mr. Appleton130 pray’d. I went home with Mr. Appleton and Mr. Sheriff; there was also Colonel Wendell131 at Mr. Appletons. I visited the President132 likewise. After Visiting divers Friends and Spending Some Time with my Daughter, I repair’d to Mr. Appleton’s where, at his repeated Sollicitations I lodged; my Horse also was kept in his Pasture.

1749 July 14 (Friday). All the Morning perplex’d and fatigu’d about my Horse, which had got out of the Pasture and could not be found; till Sir Appleton133 took his Fathers Horse and rode to Watertown; the Horse was found in old Lieutenant Coolidges Yard. I did not get away from Cambridge till noon. Call’d at Captain Sharps—where was Mr. Cotton Brown. I proceeded to Boston. My Brethren well etc. Lodg’d at Brother Samuels. My Horse at Mrs. Keggells. Molly a poor Night, but better Morning.

1749 July 15 (Saturday). Cousen Nathaniel Setting Sail for Chebuctoin partnership with William Willson. I broke fast at Mrs. Keggells, where was Mr. Edward Bass. I consulted Dr. Davis who has the Care of Molly. I thereupon ventur’d to return when I had Seen, examin’d and encourag’d her what I could: refresh’d at Mr. Hastings’s and Captain Tainters—also at Colonel Buckminsters134—was stopp’d by rain and Thunder at Mr. Morse’s135 in Framingham and was Shav’d there. The Storm came on so impetuously that I lodg’d at Mr. Nichols’s.136

1749 July 16 (Sunday). Rose very Early and Set out before sunrise. When I got to Mr. Stones137 at Southborough, he offer’d to go to Westborough in my Stead. I consent’d. I preach’d at Southborough a.m. on 2 Sam. 21.14. N.B. Heavy Rains both last night and to Day. P.M. on Gal. 2.20. I live by the Faith etc. Mr. Stone read Genesis 43, Mark 14 and preach’d on 1 Pet. 4.18. I baptiz’d Bartholomew Son of William Newton.

1749 July 17 (Monday). Daniel Hastings resides here yet. Mr. Dunlop was So kind as to Reap gratis for me (which Joseph Bowker had done also whilst I was from home last Week). A pritty good Crop of Rye, through the Divine Bounty. Daniel trys to break my young Horse to the Chair.

1749 July 18 (Tuesday). Visited Mr. Tomlin and Mrs. Bethiah Tyler.

1749 July 19 (Wednesday). I rode very early to Mr. Smiths at Marlborough for his Company to the Association Fast at Stow. His Wife and her sister went in their Chaise; and he himself rode with me. There were at Mr. Gardners this Meeting Messrs. Loring, Cushing, Martyn, Stone, Seccomb,138 Smith, Swift,139 Goss:140 and Mr. Hutchinson of Connecticut, preaching at Grafton. Mr. Gardner began the public exercise with an Excellent prayer. Mr. Stone preach’d a good, useful Sermon on Mal. 3.16. P.M. Mr. Goss pray’d and Mr. Cushing preach’d on Mat. 6.10. Thy Kingdom come. At Eve Mr. Martyn and I rode to Justice Whitman’s141 and Mr. Pierce’s142 where we lodg’d.

1749 July 20 (Thursday). Rain’d hard. Din’d at Mr. Pierce’s, though I had very much design’d to have gone to Southborough Lecture to have heard Mr. Hutchinson. In returning home, call’d at Captain Graves’s—at Peter Hows143 (because of the Showers), and at Mr. Smiths. Found my Family in a measure of Comfort. Blessed be God!

1749 July 21 (Friday). Lowery yet—a wonderful growing season though very bad for Hay. Mr. Hutchinson144 (preacher at Grafton) din’d here.

1749 July 22 (Saturday). I was much in Suspense about my going to preach at Upton. It having been propos’d that Mr. Jonas Warrin should go to provide Mr. Minot of Concord to come to Marlborough and Mr. Smith145 hither: but neither Mr. Smith came to preach here, nor Mr. Warrin to acquaint me with it. Hear that Molly is better.

1749 July 23 (Sunday). I preach’d a.m. on Hosea 3.4. But my Aim was against Envy. Read Genesis 44. P.M. read Mark 14, from the 32. Preach’d by Desire on Infant Baptism, repeating my sermon on Luke 18.15.16.

1749 July 24 (Monday). Mrs. Parkman exceedingly worried from Day to Day, being without a Maid so long. To Day engag’d in much Slavish work. Ebenezer begins to mow the Meadow. Daniel Hastings so kind as to give a Days Work there. P.M. Mr. Martyn here. At Eve Mr. Tinney came for me to visit his Sister again, Bethiah Tyler. I went—and found her both low in Body and distress’d in Mind.

1749 July 25 (Tuesday). Went Early to Mr. Cooks to get my Horse Shod; was at Neighbour Barns’s and Captain Forbush’s.146 My sons went away to rake at the Meadow, but were soon prevented by Rain.

1749 July 26 (Wednesday). Great Rains a.m. When the Rain was over Ebenezer and Thomas went to the Meadow to look after the Hay there. Samuel Bumpso gave half a Days work. P.M. my Wife rode with me to the South part of the Town: to Mr. Harringtons, the Widow Woods’s, to Mr. Daniel Forbush’s, and (which was my Chief Design) to Mr. Millers147 who was married to the widow Margaret How.148 At Lieutenant Tainters in returning at Eve, who presented me with a side of Lamb against tomorrow. Got home safely though somewhat Dark. Three of Mr. Barns’s Cattle very troublesome one Night after another and now get into the Corn.

1749 July 27 (Thursday). A.M. Ebenezer and Thomas to the Meadow to rake. I am inform’d that Several Inhabitants of this precinct Went up to Grafton yesterday to hear Dr. Green preach.

1749 July 28 (Friday). Ebenezer and Thomas at the Meadow. At Eve they got home one Load. There is Scarce a Day but it rains more or less, but today the Showers not Such as much to hurt the haying. Colonel Nahum Ward here p.m.

1749 July 29 (Saturday). Sent Billey to Mr. Allens (the miller) with Letter to Mr. Jonathan Goodale about Cart Wheels. Mr. Charles Brigham of Grafton here with his Relation. Ebenezer and Thomas to the Meadow. 2 Load more of Hay home. Billey return’d frustrated as to Mr. Goodale: but from Mr. Martyns with Dissenting Gentlemans Answer to Mr. Whites Letters149—and Esq. Prior on Tar-water.150

1749 July 30 (Sunday). Mr. Brigham was not here as expected to be taken into the Church. I read Genesis 45, gave long Exposition. Preach’d on Jam. 3.16. P.M. read Mark 15 and gave Exposition (as I have done for a great while) and preach’d on Ps. 34.13, but therein improv’d Sermon on Tit. 2.11.12 from page 81 to 85, and Sermon on Isa. 33.14, page 15, 16, but both these assistances were with great Alterations and additions. I find a great Deal of Difficulty in providing for so many different kinds of Exercises, with the vast Encumbrance and avocations by my Large Family while my wife has no Maid.

1749 July 31 (Monday). Din’d at Deacon Newtons. P.M. I visited Mr. Bradish and thence rode to Mr. Garfields. His son Jacob and Wife had been desirous of Special Privileges, and had been at My House, when I was from Home. I now enter’d into Examination of her first, because of her Circumstances (being near her Time) and then afterwards of him but briefly concerning Some Objections which would be like to be rais’d against him. But he was Soon So plain as to tell me that if What I had had from him at My House and now (when indeed we had but a few words) did not Satisfy me, he should not trouble me any more, he should go other where, Intimating (as I apprehended) that he design’d to go over to Mr. Price151 at Hopkinton, and hereby manifesting as he has done by several Things besides that his Mind was upon External Privilege and administration rather than upon inward Benefit or Qualification. Ebenezer and Thomas to the Meadow to Day.

1749 August 1 (Tuesday). Ebenezer and Thomas to the Meadow again. Deacon Forbush here. Desires me to preach at his House next Thursday. I made a Business (of set purpose) of visiting Brother Stephen Fay and his wife to talk with them about going to the Separate Meetings, and having Lay-Preachers and mention’d particularly Dr. Green. Mr. Cushing and his wife at my House—and din’d with us. N.B. Billey met me when I was on the Road from Mr. Fays and inform’d me of Mr. Cushing etc. otherwise I Should have visited Mr. James Maynard again. Mr. Batherick here just at Eve—and Mr. Simon Goddard152 and wife. N.B. A Letter from his honour’d Father.

1749 August 2 (Wednesday). Visited at Mr. Twitchells and Mr. William Rogers’s. P.M. at Captain Maynards, Tomlins, and Tennys to see Bethial Tyler. When I return’d in the Eve found that Billy had been brought home Lame from the Meadow, for he had been with his Brothers there—and Silas Rice153 had accidentally cutt his Legg with a Scythe. A fifth Load Hay home.

1749 August 3 (Thursday). Early to Dr. Smith to come and Dress Billys Legg which he comply’d with. N.B. The Doctor’s Discourse against Original Sin. P.M. I preach’d at Deacon Forbushs on Eph. 1.4. After Exercise I went to Mr. Kellys to see his Daughter Jane, and then to Mr. William Pierce’s to see 2 of his Children, they being Sick. N.B. Forbush with me. Ebenezer sixth Load Hay.

1749 August 4 (Friday). Rainy. Out of Rye. Ebenezer and Thomas p.m. thrash’d.

1749 August 5 (Saturday). Ebenezer and Thomas to the Meadow. P.M. to raking. Daniel went away Yesterday but return’d here this Evening.

1749 August 6 (Sunday). I preach’d a. and p.m. on Mal. 3.7. Read Gen. 46 and Mark 16. By means of Mr. Charles Brigham very long relation we were very late at Evening.

1749 August 7 (Monday). Rode to Mr. Jonah Warrins, to Mr. Harringtons and got him to take my Horse down to Boston with him in order to bring up a Maid from Mr. Thomas Clarks. Din’d at Deacon Forbush’s. Mr. Batherick here.

1749 August 8 (Tuesday). I expected Mr. Martyns Company but he came not; I proceeded alone to Grafton Fast preparatory to Calling a Minister. I began the Exercises with Prayer, Mr. Hall154 preach’d on Jer. 8.22. Went to Ensign Whipples155 at Noon. Mr. Maccarty156 pray’d p.m. I preach’d on 2 Cor. 11.3. As we supp’d at Ensign Whipples, thither the Church came to take Advice of the Minister what Steps they Should now take. N.B. Mr. Wellman, Mr. Hutchinson and Sir Dodge157 there. Old Mr. Whipple accompany’d me back in the Evening when I return’d.

1749 August 9 (Wednesday). Rode up to Shrewsbury in my Chair, with Billy to have his Leg dress’d. When I return’d Mr. Daniel Forbush was here with my Horse which Mr. Harrington led to Boston for a Maid from Mrs. Clark—but the Endevour was frustrated. The woman could not be found. P.M. I went to the Meadow to see the last of the Haying there.

1749 August 10 (Thursday). Neighbour Bathrick here to be further Examin’d, p.m. The Precinct Met and Voted to pull the old Meeting House down. The Time to go about it next month. N.B. Mr. Eliezer Rice came to me and told me Mr. Lyon of Grafton was gone over to see Bethiah Tyler. Wouldn’t I go to him? for he said he thought it might be to no good for such Men to be here, nor did he like he should come. After looking up to God and Considering the Matter, I got my Horse and rode after him, designing and expecting to Meet him at Mr. Tennys, but I met with him on the Road in his Return from thence. When I ask’d what Business he could have there, he told me they had sent for him; the Young Women in particular several Times. After Talk a long Time in the Mist on the Road I return’d home and he with me—he came in, and he tarried till it began to be Darkish. He deny’d that he pretended to have authority to preach—he deny’d his being in any Antinomian Errors, but declar’d he denounc’d them—affirm’d himself to be desirous to be in the way of Shepherd, Hooker etc.—before he went off, there thronged in Many into my House as they went from precinct Meeting. Ebenezer and Thomas picked apples part of the Day.

1749 August 11 (Friday). Mr. Andrew Farrand158 of Kingstown in Hampshire County, here to buy my Young Horse—but does not come to my price which because of the Extremity of the Time as to Hay I ask’d him but an hundred for—nay offer’d him for ninety pounds old Tenor. Ebenezer the ninth and last Load from the Meadow.

1749 August 12 (Saturday). Mr. Mead here. N.B. I hear of base misrepresentations of my Conference with Lyon. P.M. Daniel return’d here.

1749 August 13 (Sunday). On Mal. 3.7, a. and p.m. Read Gen. 47 and Luke 1. Showery again.

1749 August 14 (Monday). Daniel went to Watertown for either Molly or the Maid from Mr. Clarks—in my Chair and his uncle Tainters Horse. I rode to Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s where Mr. Farrand had left word about my Horse and there also Mr. Phinehas Hardy who had sold his Horse to said Farrand and if he did not consent to dispose of mine, would himself have him. Din’d at Home. Mrs. Tenny and her son Josiah din’d here. Showery to Day also. My sons mowing Bushes and Weeds.

1749 August 15 (Tuesday). Mrs. Miller (James juniors wife) here again to be examined. Much Difficulty in her Case, because whilst she desires to come to the Lords Supper yet she tells me She does not pretend to a Saving Change. N.B. Ebenezer Maynard here and kill’d a Ewe for me.

1749 August 16 (Wednesday). Association Fast here. I pray’d in the forenoon and Mr. Maccarty preach’d on Ps. 119.126. P.M. Mr. Buckminster pray’d and Mr. Barrett preach’d on Mal. 4.2. Those who came were Messrs. Loring, Cushing, Barrett, Martyn, Stone, Smith, Buckminster, Maccarty, Mellen,159 Hutchinson. There came also of Scholars, Sir Cushing160 and Forbush.161 Mr. Loring and Mr. Mellen tarry’d over Night. O might God accept our Offerings and Humilliations! Especially may He grant that we mayn’t by all provoke him the more and derive upon us a Curse instead of a Blessing! N.B. Messrs. Ebenezer Rice, Phinehas Hardy, Benjamin Fay, and Burnap here when very late at Night in their way from Worcester. And Mr. Hardy having put away his Horse to Mr. Farrand, but under some Discouragement about his Character, says Something about my Horse, yet refuses to buy him unless I will take Farrands Note. I offer to do this if he will give me 100£—he consents not to this—offers 25. This I refuse and still insist for 100 if I must be under such a Disadvantage as he himself was So uneasy with. The Affair was deferr’d till the morning, that he might See the Horse, and if he did not like him be wholly quitt. Daniel Hastings brought up Molly from Cambridge. Sarah and Elizabeth Tainter assisted my Wife, but at night went home.

1749 August 17 (Thursday). Mr. Farrand had sent me word that if I could not dispose of my Horse better I might Send him up to Worcester and he would give me 90£ to be paid at December 25 and he would wait for me til 12 o’clock: And Mr. Woolly of Holden with whom I had agreed to make me a Cyder Mill may very likely be at Mr. Cushings putting up his Mill. These Things induced me to think that way, being especially very loath to loose an opportunity to Putt away my Horse—but many incumbrances, perplexing Thoughts about getting up the Maid from Boston, writing to Mr. Minot about changing at Upton, and to Mr. Jotham Brown of Sudbury about Thomas—Company here (Mr. Loring and Mr. Millen) with many other Things made me late; and Mr. Martyn had also engag’d me, if I could, to preach his Lecture? I e’en gave up the Affairs of Worcester and Shrewsbury. Visited Mr. Tomlin in his Languishment and preach’d at the Northside on 1 Cor. 11.31. N.B. Mr. Martyn and his Spouse So much Expected me (Yet I told him he might not depend upon me) and also to See my Wife with me, that they were greatly disappointed, and I seem’d to be hardly welcome without her. After Meeting I rode to Deacon Matthias Rice’s, he being this Evening going to Boston. I left him my Horse to lead down for the Maid, again: I came home o’foot. Daniel Hastings here yet—but is unsettled as to any Business whatever.

1749 August 18 (Friday). Ebenezer Carts Apples to Mr. Charles Rice’s Mill. Daniel setts his Pidgeon Net, but without any Success.

1749 August 19 (Saturday). Thomas went to Deacon Rice’s to accompany the Young Woman hither if she be come, but she is not come. She could not ride. Ebenezer press’d out Six Barrells Cyder and got 5 here. N.B. Sent one Barrell to old Mr. Maynard.

1749 August 20 (Sunday). A.M. read Genesis 46 with Exposition. Preach’d on Isa. 63.10. P.M. read Luke 1.10.39 to the End with Exposition in the sermon on Isa. 28.16. Those words—a Sure Foundation. N.B. us’d Sermon on Eph. 3.10, from page 12 to 18. This Day Ebenezer is 22. O that he might be born again! Molly got to meeting among us a.m. Billy also got out to meeting to Day. Blessed be God for all his Goodness towards us! Mr. Bradish din’d with us. Daniel Hastings with us Still.

1749 August 21 (Monday). I rode to Shrewsbury a.m. Colonel Ward162 ask’d me into his House, and I smoak’d a Pipe. N.B. He is full of their Affair with Dr. Smith which is to come before their Church to Day. I went to Mr. Cushings about the Cyder Mill, which Mr. Woolley is to make for me. I find it needfull to go to him to Holden. Mr. Cushing lent me his Horse (mine being pritty Dull with his late Journeys)—din’d at Mr. Woolleys. As I return’d at Evening I visited Mrs. Martha Warrin163 who is sick. Ebenezer went to Boston in my Chair, drawn by my Mare—set out at 9 or 10 at Night.

1749 August 22 (Tuesday). Captain Sadler164 here to see my Horse—din’d here—agrees to give me 90£ old Tenor if he is not better Supply’d by this Day sennight. P.M. Daniel Hastings reckon’d, and took Leave. May God be gracious to him and keep him from snares.

1749 August 23 (Wednesday). Some heavy Showers. Ebenezer return’d in the Chair and brought to us Elizabeth Grice, widow, to Serve us as a Maid. Mr. Francis Whipple’s wife here and brought us about 2 pound Butter, and Rebecca Warrin brought a small Cheese and some Cucumbers, but nothing else was brought by anybody for the Thanksgiving.

1749 August 24 (Thursday). Public Thanksgiving for the Rain. I preach’d on Ps. 68.9. I am full of fear lest, if we provoke the Lord by these Services, He will bring upon us yet Sorer judgments. He has begun upon us now gradually, and waits to See when we will return to Him. Last Year there was Drought; This Year a much greater—such an one as the oldest doth not remember; perhaps the Next may be a Proper Famine. Prepare to Meet thy God O Israel! Began Mr. Brainerds Life165 at Even.

1749 August 25 (Friday). Ebenezer and Thomas a.m. mow Weeds for Fodder. P.M. Cutt Stalks. Neighbour Bathrick here with his Relation. We Need Indian Corn—borrow’d a Bushel of Lieutenant Thomas Forbush, and Neighbour Batherick went to Mr. Allens Mill with it. My Neighbours full of Animosity about the removing of the Meeting-House, and it gives me no small Anxiety. But I hope to leave it with the holy, sovereign Providence of God.

1749 August 26 (Saturday). A.M. came Edward Baker Esq., Deacon Newton and Lieutenant Tainter to acquaint me in private Capacity, that the Precinct had determin’d by their vote at their late Meeting, to take down the old Meeting House next Monday; So that I might be at no loss, or put to Difficulty the Lords Day following if I preach at the New Meeting House, they would invite me and Such of my Family as should go to Meeting, to their Houses, till there Should be some proper provision made for us by the precinct. I acknowledged their Goodness, and thank’d ‘em kindly for their Offer. And we took opportunity to enter upon some discourse about the Difficultys I must unavoidably undergoe the Ensuing Winter if the Meeting House we now use be taken down. And after their relating to me the Debates of the last Meeting—Two of them (viz. Esq. Baker and Deacon Newton) undertook to go among the Opponents (Captain Maynard etc.) to see whether they did so desire the suspending the design’d work till next Spring, as that if they should be gratify’d therein, they would then acquiesce, at least not molest them in their Proceeding. N.B. My Saying the Dividing the Town was the Thing that gave the Fatal Stabb to my Interest (explaining it of my Temporal Interest) among them. Mrs. Batherick here with her Relation. Mr. Stephen Sadler din’d here, came to look on the Horse, which his Father talks of buying of me. Ebenezer went over to Mr. Martyns for Bricks for an Oven and brought them. Two Barrells of my new boiled Cyder sprang Leaks—much was wasted—oblig’d to get another Barrell, rinse and Shift what we could of the Cyder. Betty Grice, who seems to be but an infirm Body, is indispos’d and lyes by.

1749 August 27 (Sunday). I arrive at this Day with a great deal of heavy Pressure upon my Spirits. I find it necessary to compose myself in the middst of many Temptations and Trials. There is Some reason to fear it will be the last Sabbath we shall ever have in this Meeting-House. The Morning was Cloudy and rainy. I was deceiv’d by my watch and went to Meeting late But I was also behind hand in my preparations as any one would justly conceive, having so very little Time to Study in the week. For the forenoon Exercise I deliver’d (with alterations) Sermon on Ps. 144.15th. Read Genesis 49. P.M. Luke 2. Admitted Mr. David Batherick and Wife into the Church and administer’d the Lord’s Supper. Very late, full Two o’Clock when we came out of the Meeting House (nor was it much more) I requested the Communicants to return Somewhat Sooner to Meeting again than usual after Sacrament because I perceiv’d it was very late. P.M. Deacon Newton inform’d me that their Endeavour yesterday among those who were against the taking down the Meeting House, in order to peace, was not successful. I preach’d on Rev. 3.3, former part, but I did not finish the Subject. But O that God would enable us to comply with such needful Counsel as this word exhibits. N.B. Mrs. Grice lyes by.

1749 August 28 (Monday). Early in the Morning as soon as there came any to the Meeting House I stept up and pray’d that they would give me Opportunity to Speak with the Precinct before they proceeded to their work. Mr. Jonas Brigham, one of the Committee for the work, was there and said they would Stay, that I might. Others Said the Like. I hasten’d back and while I was writing was call’d—the Committee (Said Mr. Brigham, Mr. Benjamin Fay, and Mr. Timothy Warrin) being below. I went down—they Said they were come to See whether I had any thing to offer. I told ‘em (having my paper in my Hand) that I wanted to Speak with the precinct before they proceeded to take down the Meeting House. They answered that they were the Servants of the Precinct—and Seem’d desirous to hear it and were in haste to go to work. I read it and still said I wanted to Speak to the Precinct. They undertook to answer with respect to the last article, which respected my Near Neighbours—but said nothing to the rest of the paper, but in an hurry added that they did not see any Thing but that they might go up to the work and So left Me. N.B. Lieutenant Tainter was also present and heard what I read. Captain Maynard and Ensign Josiah Rice came in a little Time from the Meeting House and wanted to know Something of a propos’d, peacefull meeting—and intimated that they thought themselves impos’d upon—and hop’d I would now see that there was a flame—acquainting me that word was brought to the Meeting House (as Deacon Newton, they Said, inform’d them) that they had Sent a Message to me and the return was that I had Nothing to Say. (N.B. Captain Baker had been here and told me that his Saturday Endeavour was not to Effect, so that laying with this what Deacon Newton told me yesterday as I went up the Pulpit stairs p.m., I concluded there was nothing of meeting or Conference to be Expected.) Upon Captain Maynards saying this, I wanted to see the Deacon that I might know how it could be so understood. Captain went up and brought the Deacon to me. Others of the Neighbours Came and I endeavour’d to make them Sensible that I had prepar’d something and would fain have gone up to the people if I could have had opportunity but was disappointed through these means. The House was uncover’d, unclos’d after the Pulpit, Pews, and seats were taken down—Several Carts kept going all Day. A Melancholly Sight! But Many that came in would express their Compassionate Hopes and Wishes. Most of all my Dependence be on the God that has in Providence brought me here and protected and provided for me hitherto! N.B. Mr. Martyn166 here as he went to Grafton Church Meeting to choose a minister. At Eve Mr. Josslyn167 here complaining of my Lateness at Meeting on the Sabbaths. Mr. Ebenezer Chamberlin with him, whose wife Said that Sabbath was Sennight it was 4 o’Clock p.m. when we went to Meeting (for Second service of the Day), whereas, as I remember, the sun was about an Hour and half high when we left off—that is, about 5 o’Clock. What Service was performed took up not much less time than Two Hours and half So that we went not at much after 1/2 past Two. Yet were they Confident that we began past 4. Mr. Martyn came in and acquainted me that at Grafton they had chose Mr. Hutchinson.

1749 August 29 (Tuesday). Rain a.m. They go on to take down the Frame of the old Meeting House. I gave the Committee leave to lay the Timber on my Land. Neighbour John Rogers was to have gone for my Cyder Mill, but is prevented by Weather. Captain Sadler neither came nor sent about the Horse. Mr. Ephraim Woods here to look upon my Horse. Mrs. Grice is ill yet and confin’d.

1749 August 30 (Wednesday). Visited Mr. Beriah Rice’s Children sick of the Throat distemper, visited Mr. Jonas Child who is sick. There I saw Dr. Scammell.168 Got him to Look on Mrs. Grice and give Directions. She had a Fit while the Doctor was here—and much Trouble afterwards. N.B. Neighbour Rogers went, with his Oxen and mine and Neighbour Hows Cart, to fetch my Cyder-Mill from Mr. Woolley’s of Holden; and brought it. The Affliction about Mrs. Grice is, however, the great test of all, for going up to see her in the Night, my wife being then with her, I gave her a few affectionate Words exhorting her to Repentance and Consider her Danger. She made me very unbecoming Answers, So that though I wanted it much I could have no agreeable Opportunity to talk with her.

1749 August 31 (Thursday). Forbush came in the Morning (according to Agreement last night to carry Mrs. Grice back to Boston) he being about to return to College, and Lieutenant Tainter offer’d his Horse (if we could not do better with her) to draw her to Boston. The Doctor had said to Me, that she could by no Means be fitt to keep here, but get her to the place from whence she came. I found She grew ill-humour’d, and us’d indecent Language—abusing my Kindness to her—So that I was oblig’d to put on a stern Air; and with a Resolute Mind got her from her Bed. My Horse follow’d after to assist if there be need. Thus I bid adieu to her who had been so great a Vexation to me. But what was very Cutting was, that She seem’d averse to hearing anything about her Soul, her sins, or another World. The Lord who alone is able, be pleas’d to awaken her to Repentance. Ebenezer return’d home before Night, having Seen her along as far as into Sudbury—but he brought me a very grieving Letter from Mr. Jotham Brown of Sudbury that he had not work enough; and that his Circumstances were such that he could not take Thomme again. But Let the Lord do what seemeth [to] Him good!

1749 September 1 (Friday). Old Mr. Rogers169 came with an Earnest request to go and see his son William who Seems to be in a very bad Frame—yesterday would have made himself away by running into the Pond and drowning himself but his Brother John went at that juncture to the Pond to water his Horse, and prevented him. He got loose also a second Time and ran into the Pond Waste deep but his Brother got him out, and with help led him up to his Fathers where he was watch’d all night by two Men. I visited him accordingly and pray’d with him. N.B. Mr. Ebenezer Chamberlins Wife met me in returning home, to give me some clearer account about what her Husband and Mr. Joslin had Said from her about its being so late when I went to Meeting the Sabbath before last: and Says it was what Captain Forbush’s wife told her. Ebenezer and Thomas cutting Stalks—Thrashing Rye etc. At Eve Lieutenant Tainter came, in the Name of the Committee to inform me that the new Meeting House would be So put in order by the Sabbath that they expect’d the Services to be perform’d there: and he, for himself desir’d that I would dine at His House on that Day—but I thank’d him and declin’d it.

1749 September 2 (Saturday). Ebenezer and Thomas went to Mr. Abner Newtons to fetch a Load of Clay for an Oven. Benjamin Tainter came up from Cambridge with my Chair and brought a Letter from Forbush that he got down well with Mrs. Grice but without sister Lydia Champney170 whom I now hop’d for; and it was a great Disappointment that she did not come. He brought me from I know not who a Considerable Box of Pipes. N.B. Neighbour Hezekiah How here in much Frett about the Meeting House.

1749 September 3 (Sunday). This Day we first met in the New Meeting House. Molly and I with Suse and Alex rode in the Chair, Thomas and Lucy rode upon the Horse, Ebenezer and Billy went o’foot—Thus eight of us got to Meeting. In the Exercise us’d the Lords Prayer. I read 1 King 8th Chapter, but (according to desire) expounded Genesis 49 which was read last Lords Day. Sang Psalm 92.12 ad. fin. Preach’d on Rev. 3.3. Din’d at Edward Baker Esquire’s—but my Children all went home. P.M. read and gave Expository remarks on Luke 3. Sang Psalm 132.4 to the End of the 10th omitting the 16th. Preach’d once More on Rev. 3.3. Baptiz’d 3 Children of Mr. David Bathrick, and one of Mr. Eleazer Whitney. O that we might have the Grace to review, hold fast, and repent! We got home in good Season. It grieves me that Such a Number of my near Neighbours were absent from Meeting.

1749 September 4 (Monday). Master Minot171 of Concord who preach’d yesterday at Upton here, with one Mr. Wheeler of Concord and with them Mr. Jonas Warrin of Upton. Near Night came Mr. Woolly to put up my Cyder Mill. Wrote to New Haven.

1749 September 5 (Tuesday). Blessed be the Lord who from Year to Year, both preserves me and loads me with his Benefits! Vide Natal. Mr. Woolley at work, with Ebenezer, putting up the Cyder Mill. Mr. Cushing and Mr. Davis172 came and we rode together to Southborough, Association Fast. Mr. Loring, Mr. Smith and Mr. Millen were all that came besides the foremention’d. I was oblig’d to preach a.m. Text was Jer. 8.5. P.M. Mr. Millen preach’d on Rom. 2.28.29. A variety of Cases at Evening—Mr. Cushings relating to Dr. Smith, Mr. Loring about general Petitions for and against Church Meetings, etc.

[The following is from Parkman’s Natalitia, Sept. 5, 1749.] I seem now to be growing old apace. I am fill’d with grief and astonishment at the Swift, unavoidable Flight of my Time! Alas! Whether I look backward or forward I am thrown into no small Anguish of Heart. As to my past Life, how empty and sinful has it been! As to what is to come, I am amaz’d at the Apprehension of the Brevity and Uncertainty of it, as likewise what is like to be the Eternal Event! O that I might be suitably affected! and might indeed be ready for the work and will of God! Our Association Fast on account of the Signs of Degeneracy among us, was this Day at Southborough; and I attended on it. It was my place to preach on that Solemnity. My Text was Jer. 8.4.5. May the Lord Himself please to awaken us, and prevent our falling into a Perpetual Backsliding!

1749 September 6 (Wednesday). A.M. I return’d home, with the same Company that I had in going. Mr. Woolley.

1749 September 7 (Thursday). Mr. Woolley. Old Mr. Garfield here to desire me to go to the Funeral of his son Jacobs Child.

1749 September 8 (Friday). Mr. Woolley went home. Mr. Millen here. Ebenezer makes Cyder at the New Mill.

1749 September 9 (Saturday). Visited Neighbour William Rogers—heard Mrs. Garfield was very bad, therefor[e] went forward and visited her nigh her End. Return’d back to Mr. Cooks to have my Horse prepar’d for my Design’d Journey. Whilst there, Mr. Minot came to me. He din’d with us. P.M. I rode to Upton. Entertain’d at Captain Hazzletines.173

1749 September 10 (Sunday). I preach’d at Upton a. and p.m. on Ps. 110.3. Din’d at Captain Sadlers. May God please to make it the Day of his power with my Soul! and with all that hear me! Call’d at Mr. Elijah Warrins—and at Mr. Jonas Childs at Evening. Supp’d at Home. Mr. Minot preach’d at Westborough on 2 Tim. 2.19, and 1 Cor. 14.1. Mr. Minot din’d at Esquire Bakers.

1749 September 11 (Monday). Mr. Minot left us. Mr. Bucknam174 going to Brookfield calls here and dines. At the Funeral of Mr. Jacob Garfields wife. Visited Neighbour Abner Newton.

1749 September 12 (Tuesday). Molly and I rode in the Chair to Concord—din’d at Mr. John Weeks175 at Marlborough and got to Mr. Minot’s seasonably—made a visit to Colonel Minot—but both my Daughter and I lodg’d at Mr. Timothys. But my Principal Errand was with Mr. Gold the Sadler, to see whether he would take Thomas to perfect him in the Trade of Sadler. He took it to Consideration of.

1749 September 13 (Wednesday). Mr. Minot very Courteous, accompaying me from place to place and particularly to Mr. Whitneys—where I bought Voetius’s Select Disputations,176 2 volumes for 25/ old Tenor. Mr. Gold settles his Terms that Thomas must either live with him a Twelve month and pay 30£ old Tenor, or live with him 18 Months. Din’d at Mr. Minots, call’d at Mr. Bliss’s.177 Was at Mr. Jotham Browns, and at Mr. Ebenezer Newtons in returning—got home, through God’s Goodness in Safety.

1749 September 14 (Thursday). Cathechiz’d at Mr. Josselyn’s.

1749 September 15 (Friday). Rain’d hard. Mrs. Bekky Gott178 and Mrs. Bekky Williams179 from Marlborough to visit us, and lodg’d here.

1749 September 16 (Saturday). The Young Ladys return’d. Young Cattle out of the Woods. Rode up to Grafton in Complyance with Mr. Hutchinsons Request, but I not having Sent him any word, I was oblig’d to ride up as far as Captain Lelands180 before I saw him, and then to Mr. Holbrooks181 before he to Westborough. N.B. He lodg’d at Captain Baker’s: I at Mr. Holbrooks.

1749 September 17 (Sunday). Preach’d at Grafton on 2 Cor. 3.15. P.M. 10.14.17.18. Din’d at Mr. Isaac Harringtons. Baptiz’d 4 Children—viz. of Mr. Abner Stow, Mr. John Sherman, Mr. Moses Eager, and Mr. Abijah Allen. At Eve rode as far as to Mr. Winchesters, refresh’d there—afterwards Supp’d at Home. May God be pleas’d to cause his word to make a deep Impression on both my own heart and the hearts of his people. Mr. Hutchinson tarried—the Town of Grafton being to meet to Morrow to choose a Minister or rather to see whether it will concurr with the choice of the Church.

1749 September 18 (Monday). Mr. Hutchinson to Mr. Martyns. Mr. Bucknam here in his return from Mr. Hardings182 Ordination. P.M. I went to Proprietors Meeting at Marlborough with a plot of 13 1/4 acres, which lyes South East of our new Meeting House—which they granted: and I left it with Colonel Williams to be recorded. At Mr. Smiths in my return home.

1749 September 19 (Tuesday). Took my Son Thomas with me in my Chair, to Concord. We din’d at Deacon Rice’s and were entertain’d Courteously and handsomely. Call’d at Mr. Jotham Browns, Thomas having much longing after them. We went to Mr. Goolds, and, by the Assistance of Mr. Minot with whom they were lodg’d, enter’d into Articles of Agreement with said Gould—and after Several visits in the Neighborhood, I return’d to Mr. Goolds, and tarried with them all Night.

1749 September 20 (Wednesday). Set out from Concord for Boston. Call’d at old Mr. Hancocks183 at Lexington, but only the old Lady at Home. Thence to Cambridge and din’d at Deacon Whittemores184—thence to Boston. N.B. a Cold Night. Bells rung for Fire. The Chief noise in Boston is about the Money lately come in to re-emburse for Charge of Cape Briton.

1749 September 21 (Thursday). Mr. Cowell185 presented a black Hickery or Walnutt Stick. My late Kinsman John Parkmans Widow made me a Present of her late Husbands Rocculo,186 which was a little the worse for Wear. Mr. John Breck presented me Εικωυ Βασιλικη Δεμτερα, and Mr. Edwards of Northampton Sent me by Mr. Bromfield, his Book against his Grandfather.187 I beg grace to be truely Thankfull to God for so many favours. Sister Lydia Champney rode with me to Cambridge—but I lodg’d in sister Lydia’s Chamber.

1749 September 22 (Friday). We Set out early (Sister Lydia and I in my Chair) from Cambridge. Din’d at old Mr. Livermore’s at Weston. My Mare very Dull—very hardly expected that She would hold home, but we arriv’d in Safety at Evening.

1749 September 23 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1749 September 24 (Sunday). Somewhat rainy and raw Cold Air. The Meeting House too open, difficult to undergoe it. Read Exod. 2. Preach’d on Eccl. 5.1. Din’d at Esq. Bakers. P.M. read Luke 6, and preach’d on Luke 6.31, repeating my Exposition on the parallell place in Matthew. Daniel Hastings here.

1749 September 25 (Monday). Rain. The precinct by their Committee Sold the old meeting House Frame.

1749 September 26 (Tuesday). Mr. Martyn I hear is gone to Boston with his wife to see his mother who is ill. I visited Mr. Tomlin188 who seems to be near his End. Daniel Hastings kill’d a Steer for me. He left us and return’d to Watertown.

1749 September 27 (Wednesday). Ebenezer makes Cyder—getts in Rowing—I assisted him—Mrs. Mary Sherman.

1749 September 28 (Thursday). Captain Maynard came to desire me to go to Mr. Tomlins who is still living. At Eve Mr. Thaddeus Gale here to discourse with me about his joining to the Church.

1749 September 29 (Friday). Mr. Tomlin dy’d last night. He was an innocent harmless man, and seriously inclin’d, but was Somewhat liable to be discomposed in his reason, and doubted much of his Sincerity and Faith. The Lord Sanctify his holy Dispensation for our awakening and quickening!

1749 September 30 (Saturday). Mr. Tomlin bury’d. Receiv’d a Letter from the first Church in Sutton to assist in Council there on the 17th of next Month. It was deliver’d by Lieutenant Peres Rice.189

1749 October 1 (Sunday). A rainy Day. Rain’d down upon me in the Pulpit. Din’d at Deacon Newtons. A.M. read Exod. 3. Preach’d on Eccl. 5.1, but made up of Exod. 3.5, as my Text at this Exercise. P.M. read Luke 7th. Preach’d from Eccl. 5.1. A Somewhat tedious Day to undergoe. But God be pleas’d to grant me the Wisdom and Patience necessary for me under my Circumstances! When I read the Letter from Sutton, I told the Church that I could not well go, because of the Difficultys respecting my uncertain Health, and my great uncertainty what would be like to befall me as to my attending upon Meeting this Winter approaching—to look after the Preparations for which I had but little Time before me: for the ensuing Week would be chiefly taken up in Ministers Meeting, and the Committee’s Business at Rutland. Yet I told the Church I would not hinder their going to Sutton if they saw best. But Deacon Newton objected that Sutton first Church had an hand in setting up the Church in Framingham which in under Mr. Solomon Reed, and so were divers of the other Churches which were sent to on this Occasion, and therefore he was not free to Send. Upon the whole, when it was put to Vote, no Hand at all was lifted up.

1749 October 2 (Monday). Lieutenant Peres Rice came from Southborough and receiv’d our Negative Answer to the Church in Sutton. Sister Lydia rode out with me. We din’d at Lieutenant Tainters. P.M. I had his Horse to visit James Miller juniors wife: Mr. Samuel Hardy’s and Mr. Zebulon Rice’s Family—Two Children in the last Family sick of Throat Distemper. Dark chairing home in the Evening yet call’d at Merchant Rice’s to receive Money of Mr. Daniel Hardy Collector.

1749 October 3 (Tuesday). In going up to Holden I was desir’d to go in to Mr. Benjamin Eagers to see a poor Sick, despairing Man, one Clark from Westfield. Got to Holden (in Company with Mr. Cushing) seasonably, and we kept the Day as a Fast. Mr. Davis pray’d, Mr. Smith preach’d on Ga. 5.7. P.M. Mr. Maccarty pray’d and Mr. Secomb preach’d on Acts 9.3.4.5. I lodg’d at Mr. Davis’s with Mr. Smith.

1749 October 4 (Wednesday). N.B. Mr. Buckminster of Rutland had mistaken the Time of my going up there and therefore appointed a Church Meeting there at 9 a.m. whereas I had appointed to be there in the afternoon and had writ so to Mr. Campbell190 and the rest of the Committee. Accordingly having din’d at Mr. Davis’s, p.m. I rode up to Rutland. Lieutenant Brown191 of Leicester was there, and Deacon Davis192 of Oxford (instead of Colonel Larnard193) came before Night. We went to the meeting house this Evening. Mr. Buckminster pray’d and though Captain Rice194 was much against submitting his Case to our Cognizance, yet the Church and Deacon Ball195 requesting it we adjourn’d to tomorrow morning and Mr. Cambell and I lodg’d at Mr. Buckminsters.

1749 October 5 (Thursday). Met at the Meeting House, both the Church and Committee of the Council and found Captain Rice willing to submitt their Controversie to us—adding Deacon Davis to us instead of Colonel Larnard—but N.B. Esq. Baker did not come at all. P.M. carry’d on the Hearing again. N.B. Captain Rice and the Church were reconcil’d to Day. At Night the Committee were at Mr. Buckminsters reviewing and debating, till late.

1749 October 6 (Friday). Deacon Ball came to us early to see whether his Wife, who had been distress’d all Night might not come to us and declare her Mind. We consented but Captain Rice must be present. He was therefore sent for, came and we labour’d with them all, after which drew up our Report and advice, and did our utmost to reconcile ‘em. But now the Tables were turn’d; our Difficulty was with Captain Rice no longer, or with his son (John). Deacon Ball was the person that now appear’d inexorable, and not to be satisfy’d with our Judgement and award. The Church who had met in the forenoon, and again in the p.m. were call’d together after sun setting and we went into the Meeting House, read what we determin’d—and Captain Rice and his son accepted it; and the Church by their Vote also approv’d of it, but Deacon Ball stood out to the last. Mr. Campbell pray’d and we broke up; our Hearts griev’d that we are forc’d to leave any Remains of the Contention. But blessed be God for any Measure of Success! Very Cold Nights one after another. We lodge still at Mr. Buckminsters.

1749 October 7 (Saturday). Visited Mr. Frink196 as we came off. I was at Mr. Feltons197 to see whether some of my stray Cattle are not there: but am not enough acquainted with my marks to know them. N.B. Mr. Feltons wife was a Trask. Din’d at Mr. Davis’s.198 Return’d home at Eve, and found all in peace. Blessed be God!

1749 October 8 (Sunday). Another very rainy, Stormy Sabbath. Administer’d the Lords Supper—the first in the new Meeting House. Read a.m. Exod. 4, preach’d on 1 Cor. 11.26 a Repitition—having no Opportunity to Prepare. My wife, sister Lydia and Daughter Molly din’d at Deacon Newtons. P.M. read Luke 8 repeated an Exposition on Mat. 8.23 to 27. Very tedious returning home at Night. N.B. Reasons for Consenting to Shrewsbury Letter (requesting our assistance in Council) were it is near—we can’t keep denying—and no objection against that Church as there was against Sutton. A terrible stormy Night of Wind and Rain.

1749 October 9 (Monday). A.M. I rode over to Mr. Harringtons for the 2 Volumes of Mr. Flavells199 works which he had brought up for me from Mr. Daniel Gookins200 of Boston. Also visited Mr. Jonah Warrins Family, one of his Children being ill. Mr. Death201 of Framingham here to buy my Young Horse, but goes away without him. P.M. rain. Ebenezer to Rutland after the stray Cattle.

1749 October 10 (Tuesday). Clear, and Cool. Sent a Number of my Books last night and to Day in order to their being carry’d to Mr. Gookins’s to be sold. Honourable Esq. Goddard here at Eve, going with his son Edward to Shrewsbury. At Eve likewise came Mr. Devotion202 of Windham, and Coggswell203 of Canterbury here, and lodg’d with us.

1749 October 11 (Wednesday). Mr. Devotion and Cogswell to Boston. Mr. Whipple, one of the Delegates of the Church, came and accompany’d me to Shrewsbury. Captain Baker the other Delegate came afterwards. There met at Colonel Nahum Wards the following Churches. Mr. Lorings,204 Mr. Williams’s205 of Weston. Mr. Gays206 of Hingham, Southborough, second of Bradford, and first of Westborough. We waited all the forenoon for the old South in Boston and the first Church in Cambridge, but they came not. After Dinner we form’d into Ecclesiastical Council. Mr. Loring was chose Moderator. Mr. Williams and I were chosen Clerks. Then proceeded to the Meeting House. Moderator pray’d and we had an Hearing of the Cause—the Complaint was by Mr. Isaac Stone207 against Dr. Joshua Smith,208 touching Original Sin. N.B. Mr. Balch209 pastor of a church in Bradford, and of the Council, was observ’d to turn Advocate for Dr. Smith. At Eve I return’d home, there being a great Number of young Men husking my Corn this Evening.

1749 October 12 (Thursday). In the Morning to Shrewsbury. Debating in Council, yet passing several Votes—went not from Colonel Wards all Day. Lodg’d there also. N.B. Messrs. Gay and Balch dissented from the rest.

1749 October 13 (Friday). Hard at it—all Day—the Result was read by Candle Light, at Colonel Wards. N.B. Mr. Balch and his Messenger went off for Bradford in the Morning. Mr. Gay and his Messenger drew off before voting the Result and were absent at the Reading of it. I pray’d after reading the Result. Return’d at Eve in Company with Mr. Stone and Esq. Liscomb of Shrewsbury, and Esq. Baker and Mr. Whipple of this Town. N.B. the Council was adjourn’d without Day.

1749 October 14 (Saturday). Making Some preparations for the Sabbath. Ebenezer has carry’d up the Corn into the Garrett, and we have great Reason to Bless God for his abundant Goodness and Bounty to us, especially considering the terrible Drought, for we have a competent Crop. May we have grace to improve it to the Glory of the Giver!

1749 October 15 (Sunday). Read Exod. 4 from 10.18. Text 2 Tim. 4.3 former part. Molly and I din’d at Deacon Newtons. P.M. read Luke 8 from 10.26. Text Eph. 2.5, repeating sermon on Eph. 2.8, to page 10, and including the Application entitled Reflections at Page 8. Refuse to read a paper of William Rogers. No Result to read.

1749 October 16 (Monday). Mr. Martyn and Deacon Livermore210 here as they were going to Council at Sutton.

1749 October 17 (Tuesday). Ebenezer to the Trooping at Marlborough. Nathan Maynard help’d me in raking our Husks into Heaps and Cocking them before the Threatening Storm.

1749 October 18 (Wednesday). Between 3 and 4 in the Morning Mr. Samuel Hardy call’d me out of my Bed to visit Mr. Jonas Warrin of Upton who is thought to be near his End. I went, got there about sun rise (a stormy Morning, snowed hard). He discours’d admirably well when I first went in, of his going to Rest—his praising forever and ever. But by the force of his Distemper he afterwards became delirious, and his Mind was clouded and sadly distracted—after Prayer I return’d home, calling at Mr. Grows, Lieutenant Tainters and Merchant Rice’s. Ebenezer has made 3 Barrells more of Cyder, which is the last (of clear Cyder) and makes up the Number of 19 1/2 Barrells for the Year.

1749 October 19 (Thursday). Joseph Bowker returns from Townsend, whither he went last Monday with Lieutenant Tainter to look of my Land there, and he brings me word that Lieutenant Tainter acquaints him that my 10 Acre Lot is gone. The Hampshire Men had met at Groton and drawn their Lotts, and for this among the rest, as ‘twas Suppos’d.

1749 October 20 (Friday). Sent Ebenezer with a Team to Lieutenant Eagers Tavern to carry a Barrell of Cyder Here for Mr. Davis of Holden. I rode up myself and proceeded to Colonel Wards, to Mr. Cushings and to Mr. Edward Goddards—bought 42 1/2 pounds of Cheese. Return’d p.m. Mrs. Mehitable Brigham211 here again to discourse with me about her joining to the Church—interrupted by Mr. Martyn who was come from Council at Sutton and Mr. Hutchinson who expects to give his answer to Grafton next Monday.

1749 October 21 (Saturday). Some Competency of Turnips rais’d and cutt by ourselves. Mr. Francis Whipple here to bring Intelligence of my lost Cow, suppos’d to be found at Lambstown at one Weeks’s.212

1749 October 22 (Sunday). Rainy—yet rode over to Mr. Martyns, we having agreed on the 20th to change on this Day. I preach’d all Day on Mat. 25.46 latter part. Mr. Martyn preach’d for me on 1 Thess. 5.19. Quench not etc. Mr. Martyn has news of his mothers being ill. I return’d home by 9 o’clock before Every Body was o’Bed.

1749 October 23 (Monday). A rainy and stormy Day.

1749 October 24 (Tuesday). Another very rainy Day, which prevents my going to the Association Fast at Harvard, and am afraid it will many others. However, I desire to have my heart with them. Did somewhat that way in the forepart of the Day, but was afterwards variously interrupted. John Rutherford here to make a Letter-Garter-Loom. P.M. divers others here. Yet may God of his infinite Mercy pardon my great Defects! and accept of those who this Day call upon his Name! for I would hold Communion with them.

1749 October 25 (Wednesday). Ebenezer rode early to Shrewsbury on his Journey to Lambstown to look up my Stray Cow. Dr. Smith here. Major Keyes also. A.M. Sorry the Doctor is Still in So disturb’d a Temper. May God be pleas’d to open his Mind, and dispose him to receive the Counsel which has been given him!

1749 October 26 (Thursday). Daniel How p.m. diggs Potatoes. Mr. Ezekiel Dodge here, with his sister Maynard. He tarry’d to Supper. He read some Letters from Cambridge which inform of divers late Severe Laws made by the Corporation especially against Absence from College beyond the Liberty granted. Very fine Day. Mrs. Elizabeth Miller213 here.

1749 October 27 (Friday). Pleasant Weather. Sister Lydia Champney and Molly rode over to see Mrs. Warrin at Upton. At Eve Brother Hicks, and lodg’d here. N.B. Mr. Carryl from Hopkinton here in behalf of his Brother Woodwell and din’d with us. Ebenezer return’d and brought home the Cow. He paid 40/ old Tenor to Mr. Weeks of Lambstown for her keeping. He can hear nothing of other Young Creatures that are still missing. At Night came on a storm of Rain, but

1749 October 28 (Saturday). In the Morning the Ground was cover’d with Snow. Cold and Raw, and looks dismally. Brother Hicks went over to Upton to invite sister Lydia to his House. I have great Reason to magnifie and praise the Name of God for his Great Mercy and Goodness which he has shewn in lengthening out the Day of His Patience towards Me and towards this Church and people, it being this Day 25 years since the Church was gather’d and I was ordain’d the Pastor of it. And at the same Time I have great reason to be deeply humbled before God for my Unfaithfullness, Slothfullness, Barrenness, and Unprofitableness. May God be graciously pleas’d to grant me his holy Spirit to quicken me to both true Gratitude for the Lenity, and deep Repentance for my great Defects and Miscarriages! And may God grant all needed Influences of His Spirit also to qualifie and furnish for his Service, and to excite to it hence forward in a much more fruitfull Manner than heretofore! and May the Long-suffering of God prove salvation. May God be very gracious to the dear Flock! and grant success of the Word and Ordinances among them. And inasmuch as it is a Day of peculiar Difficulty, Burden and Charge, by the Building of the New Meeting House and my Remove, May it please God to vouchsafe needed Wisdom and Grace to guide and direct in those Important Affairs: and Smile upon and prosper our Endeavours for Re-settlement that it may in his own good Time be in Righteousness and Peace!

1749 October 29 (Sunday). Through Gods tender Mercy we began another Year of Sabbaths. May we have Grace to keep them aright! I read Exod. 6 and gave a large Exposition. Preach’d once more on Eccl. 5.1, applying and improving the Subject according to the season But spent my Preparations in the forenoon service. P.M. read Luke 9 from 10.28, and repeat’d instead of a sermon Expositions on Mat. 8.19 to 22 (being Number 141, 142). Was a pritty raw Air, and the Meeting House very uncomfortable, So many great Windows being open yet, and the Doors unhung.

1749 October 30 (Monday). A fine pleasant Day. Ebenezer first help’d Mr. Edwards Whipple kill a Beeve and then Mr. Whipple came and help’d him kill a Young Heiffer for me. Neighbour Stephen Fay here at Evening.

1749 October 31 (Tuesday). I rode over to Mr. Whipples, and made a Visit to Mr. James Maynards—who has for some Time been absent from our Meeting—but he was not at home. Din’d at Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s. He and I went down to the plain and view’d the Land South and South East of the Meeting House. I visited Mr. Solomon Woods, Several of whose Children are ill of the Throat Distemper. Had Opportunity to Day to talk with Mr. Asa Brigham about Some Meadow and with Mr. Beriah Rice about some of his.

1749 November 1 (Wednesday). Exceeding Cold last Night and this morning for the Season. Deacon Forbush here and had an Hebrew Bible for his Son at College. Mr. John Rutherford here again and teaches Lucy to weave Letter’d Garters. Ebenezer work’d for Neighbour Noah How. P.M. Visited Mr. Martyn. In returning call’d to see the Two Widows Tomlin.

1749 November 2 (Thursday). Mrs. Hitty Brigham here again. Neigbhour Rutherford after Dinner left us, generously refusing to take anything for his Pains in teaching Lucy to weave Garters. Molly return’d from Upton and Mrs. Warrin with her. P.M. my wife and I rode in the Chair to the Private Meeting at Mr. Francis Whipples. I preach’d from Isa. 55.7. After Supper there, Lieutenant Tainter came home with us. The Air pritty Cold. The setting in of the Cold thus makes me very sollicitous and Concern’d about Keeping for my Stock. But I confide in Him who made the Meal in the Barrell and the Oyl in the Cruse last, and provid’d so much for us in the season past, beyond our Fears will Still extend his Care of us and bless our Store as he has done before.

1749 November 3 (Friday). Considering the Dangers my Neighbour James Maynard is in of throwing up his Profession of Religion with us, and turning to the Communion of the Church of England, I attempted again to make him a Visit, and found him at home. But the most of his Discourse was to this purpose that Things had gone wrong in this town for many Years—above Twenty—yet he Said it was not because of any Disquietment he had with me that he broke off. This he said three Times in the Conversation. But he dwelt most largely upon the Conduct of Things in the Days of Mr. Elmer,214 for he had little to say in his own Defence. I din’d there—neither was there any Angry Ruffle. Finally, I entreated him to Suspend absolutely determining to leave us till there might be some Opportunity improv’d to look into his Complaints and Difficultys; and if things did look to him, in the mean time too disagreeable for him to go to Meeting with us, he would rather go to meeting at Shrewsbury, which was near to him; than to Hopkinton, to Mr. Price215—and desir’d him to come and See me. To which he reply’d that he did not know but he Should. I left him with much Concern for him. May God most mercifull be pleas’d to pitty him and rescue him! P.M. rode to the Burying of Mr. Solomon Woods’s little Daughter which dy’d of the Throat Distemper. At Eve Brother Hicks brought sister Lydia from Sutton.

1749 November 4 (Saturday). Brother Hicks return’d home to Sutton. Mrs. Hitty Brigham here again. P.M. Mr. Hutchinson here, and I rode up to Mr. Ebenezer Brooks’s in Grafton and lodg’d there.

1749 November 5 (Sunday). Mr. Hutchinson preach’d at Westborough. N.B. He and sister Lydia din’d at Lieutenant Tainters. I preach’d at Grafton on Rom. 8.7, all Day. And Baptiz’d Timothy the son of Abraham Temple, and Mary Daughter of John Adams. At Eve Mr. Hutchinson return’d to Mr. Brooks’s where I lodg’d. Major Willard,216 Mr. Cutler217 and Mr. Aaron Hardy came in, and had much Discourse with Mr. Hutchinson. N.B. Mr. Hutchinson seem’d not freely willing to let the Town know whether in Case he should come up to the proposals he had made to them he would even accept of them.

1749 November 6 (Monday). Mr. Hutchinson preparing to Set out this Morning for Hebron. I return’d to Westborough. N.B. call’d at Major Willards—Mr. Temples,218 Mr. Winchesters and Jonathan Fays. Training of the first Company. After praying with them I din’d with the Company at Mr. Eliezer Rice’s. P.M. at the Burial of Mr. William Pierce’s little Daughter Sarah who dy’d by the Throat Distemper. Return’d to the Officers at Eve—but they were dismiss’d before I got to them. At Neighbour Williams in returning home.

1749 November 7 (Tuesday). A Comfortable Warm Season for several Days. My Wife and I in the Chair rode over to Mr. Martyns and din’d there. Return’d at Evening and visited Mrs. Martha Warrin. N.B. at Mr. Martyns were several visitors p.m., particularly Mr. Asa Bowker219 of Shrewsbury and his Brother and sister Davis220 of Marlborough.

1749 November 8 (Wednesday). Ebenezer is and has been variously employ’d in Carting out Muck and Spreading it etc. I read Plutarchs Life of Demosthenes—and part of Demetrius. At Eve Lieutenant Tainter and his son Benjamin brought in Mary Woodwell the Captive return’d from Canada. They left her and she lodg’d here, and Lieutenant brought home my steer which had been missing from Thurstons at Reads Farm, having found him at Brookfield.

1749 November 9 (Thursday). Lieutenant came and kill’d a Cow for me—weigh’d 16 score. He and Mary Woodwell after Dinner left us, that She might go over to her Father at Hopkinton.

1749 November 10 (Friday). Closely engag’d in Preparations.

1749 November 11 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1749 November 12 (Sunday). Read Exod. 7 (though the former part of it was read by Mr. Hutchinson last Lords Day) and I gave a large Exposition which was the whole forenoon Exercise. Molly and I din’d at Deacon Newtons. P.M. Molly Woodwell’s thanks were offer’d in our Congregation—also prayers for no less than Six Children that are sick—3 of Neighbour Beriah Rice’s—who have a malignant Fever. The rest have the Canker or Throat Distemper. Read Luke 10 from 21, and ended at 29, and gave the Exposition on Mat. 11.25.26. Somewhat drizly Weather then Shiny at Times.

1749 November 13 (Monday). Early visited Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s Child, Sick, but is better. Was at Mr. Abner Newtons. Broke fast there—ask’d him to sell part of his place. Mr. Child the Glazier, glazing the Meeting House. Was call’d to visit Mr. Beriah Rice’s Children. Judah was the Messenger and the same Eve was taken ill. I was at Mr. Jonah Warrins whose Daughter Anna is ill.

1749 November 14 (Tuesday). Captain Maynards Company train’d—pray’d with them and Eat with them. N.B. Lieutenant Eager first appointed.

1749 November 15 (Wednesday). The weather Still favourable. John Dunlop call’d me to visit Sarah Rice, and it was Evening—I went. 6 of them are ill.

1749 November 16 (Thursday). Snowy and Cold. Public Thanksgiving. Preach’d on Deut. 32.15. Sarah Rice, Daughter of Beriah dy’d this morning and Timothy, another son is taken. N.B. Asaph Rice last night brought up a Letter from Cambridge to Sister Lydia in which inform’d that Brother Champney lost a Daughter.

1749 November 17 (Friday). Neighbour Batherick is making a Sink in my back Porch. Tis now grown Cold and the Earth wears the Face of Winter. At the Burial of Sarah Rice.

1749 November 18 (Saturday). N.B. Assist’d Mrs. Miller about her Relation. Did this at Lieutenant Tainters.

1749 November 19 (Sunday). Was much disquieted with Mrs. Mehitabel Brigham who neglected to bring her Relation to me till this Morning, nay till I was going into the Meeting House. Read Exod. 8, preach’d from Ps. 26.6, improving and repeating the Heads in Sermon on 1 Cor. 11.26, from page [blank] to page [blank]. Administered the Lords Supper. Din’d at Deacon Newtons also my wife, and Sister Lydia. Molly and Lucy were at the Deacons but had dinners of their own. P.M. omitted the reading—and instead of a Sermon gave the Exposition of the forenoon Chapter; Somewhat enlarg’d. It was a Somewhat Cold Day—and I stood it with Difficulty: But would bless God for that measure of Strength and Comfort which I am favoured with. Was at home some while before sunsett. I reflect with a great deal of shame and sorrow on my scantiness and Barrenness; but the Week past has been a Time of much Engagement, and I could not well imagine I Should have full Preparation for the Sabbath. May God pitty my Weakness and forgive my Defects!

1749 November 20 (Monday). Nineteen persons, older and younger, Three with Teams, to get me wood. They got down to the Door 29 Load. They were Lieutenant Tainter with his Team and his Son, Mr. James Bowman with his Team and his son, Mr. Harrington with his Team and his son, Messrs. Martin Pratt, Daniel Hardy, Cornelius Biglo, William Pierce, Jonathan Forbush junior, Solomon Baker, Joseph Grout junior, Elijah Hardy, Thomas Hardy, Seth Miller, Daniel Forbush junior, Joseph Bowker, and Samuel Bumpso. P.M. there came up such a snow storm as made ‘em break off a little earlyer than they otherwise perhaps would have done. I took Cold by being out among the People in the Snow.

1749 November 21 (Tuesday). Sister Lydia purposing to go down, but being the Preparation etc. for going was not affected till after one o’Clock p.m. therefore though it was an inviting pleasant Day, Yet I conceiv’d it too late to set out to Day and perswaded her to adjourn it till tomorrow morning. My wife and I rode in our Slay to Lieutenant Tainters to the marriage of Joseph Bowker.221 Mr. Hutchinson from Grafton there. I was much afflicted with Toothach, Rheumatic Pains, and I was feverish—was not well, at Home or abroad. Went to bed much indispos’d. Ebenezer gather’d our Sheep home. In all 16.

1749 November 22 (Wednesday). Early in the Morning Stormy; but afterwards it clear’d off, and very Cold. Ebenezer in Lieutenant Tainters least Slay waited upon his Aunt Lydia222 to Cambridge. I am much indisposed with Pains in my Teeth, and at Times Rheumatic Darts in my Limbs: yet able, through Mercy, both to write and read. It proves exceeding Cold at Night. My little Son William putt up the Cattle and meated them himself though so very Cold.

1749 November 23 (Thursday). Neighbour William Rogers here again importuning me to suffer him to join with the Church. Catechiz’d at my House. Only six Boys besides my own in the forenoon: and in the Afternoon the Weather being Cold and the Roads bad, there came no Girls at all. At Eve Lieutenant Hezekiah Ward here, and put up with us for the Night. Josiah Lock223 (at my Request) is here to help my Billy in tending the Cattle and cutting Wood; and lodg’d here.

1749 November 24 (Friday). Lieutenant Ward left us towards noon, and Ensign Millar here and bought Two Spring Calves, for 6£ old Tenor. The Weather a little Moderater. I am still indispos’d, but Somewhat Easier: so that I go out, though with Care.

1749 November 25 (Saturday). A very Cold Night, and this morning very sharp. Captain Maynard sent Joshua Winchester (who lives with him) to Cut Wood at the Door and assist Billy about the Creatures. At Eve Ebenezer came home, having had a tedious Journey to Boston and Concord: he came from Concord to Day. N.B. a Letter from Thomas of the abusive Detractions of Mr. Williams of Marlborough at Jones’s Tavern at Concord. From Mr. Whiting Fullers Worthys.224

1749 November 26 (Sunday). A raw Cold, cloudy Day—but I was so much more Comfortable than I have been (though Still indispos’d) that I ventur’d to Meeting. Read Exod. 9, gave some brief Observations only. Preach’d on 2 Tim. 4.3, former part a. and p.m. P.M. read latter part of Luke 10. My wife din’d with me at Deacon Newtons. Got home in Comfort at Night. Blessed be God! We are much burthen’d with Stray Sheep.

1749 November 27 (Monday). A.M. Robert Cook225 here to be examin’d etc. Sent 1/2 Dozen Fowls to Boston by Neighbour Ebenezer Maynard: being oblig’d to Sell and kill off every Thing that I can Spare, in order to preserve what live Stock may remain.

1749 November 28 (Tuesday). This Day in the Year 1730 my Honoured Father Deceas’d. I would not only remember the Death, but the Sudden manner of his being Seiz’d, and would beg of God so to prepare me, that I may always be ready for his Summons. My Wife and Daughter Mary made a visit to Lieutenant Eagers wife, it being good slaying. The Precinct (as Captain Maynard who came in, in the Evening Inform’d me) met together this Day to Consider my Circumstances—Yearly Support, and Entertainment on Sabbath noons. What they have done I expect to hear more particularly in due Time. In the mean While I desire to committ myself to God and his good Providence. The Lord careth for me. May I have grace, also, to put my intire Confidence in Him!

1749 November 29 (Wednesday). Neighbour Robert Cooks wife here in the Day Time, and He again in the Evening—A very Troublesome Case.

1749 November 30 (Thursday). I have receiv’d no message from the Precinct. P.M. I rode over to Deacon Newtons to discourse with him about hiring part of his House, but he was not at Home. While I sat there Esq. Baker came in. After some Discourse we walk’d over to Neighbour Abner Newtons. Our Discourse there was also about my moving if I could find any Convenient House. Call’d at Merchant Rice’s at Eve to see his sick Child. Rode around to Mr. Eliezer Rice’s and left my Young Horse with him to be kept. The Season looks at present very terrible. Tight Shut up with Snow and Some Days very Cold. It fills many (I suppose) with Concern. But we must remember Jehovah.

1749 December 1 (Friday). Comes in with a strong Storm—rain’d all Day. Domestic Conversation about our Moving—appears no Small Matter.

1749 December 2 (Saturday). Bright and pleasant. My wife finish’d a Cloth colour’d Russell Gown for me.

1749 December 3 (Sunday). Read Exod. 10 with Exposition, and preach’d from 2 Tim. 4.3. Din’d (by his renewed invitation to me, but no mention of any of the rest) at Deacon Newtons. Molly and Lucy and Billy tarry’d at the Meeting House. I enquir’d of Mrs. Newton what was become of them and she manifested concern and Disappointment for she had ask’d them (heretofore) and did Desire they might be with us at Dinner, and said she spoke to Billy (to Day) at the Meeting House Door, to come. (But I suppose they knew not upon what foot they were to come and therefore did not. It is a pity that this Affair has made any Difficulty.) P.M. I read part of Luke 11, viz. to 13, and after a few glances upon it, I wav’d the rest, to the sermon which was upon those words in 2. When you pray, say, Our Father etc. in which I improv’d what I had upon Mat. 6.9. For though I had writ more than might have serv’d for one Exercise, upon the Subject in the Morning yet I much rather chose to deliver as much of it as I well could at once. May God please to pardon my Defects, and own and bless my imperfect, if sincere Endeavours preventing misunderstandings of what has been offer’d, that men might be prejudic’d against seasonable Truth. May God enable us to see and embrace it as it is in Jesus, and be sanctify’d thereby! N.B. Besides Neighbour James Maynards going over to the Church of England, we hear sorrowfull News from Hardwick of some Number of those who went from this town (Mr. James Fay226 etc.) Separating from the Church there and setting up John Roberts227 late of Grafton, for their Preacher if not Teacher: and some among ourselves hankering to go after them.

1749 December 4 (Monday). [No entry.]

1749 December 5 (Tuesday). Mr. John Child Glazier here, mending etc. Stormy Day. Neighbour Eliezer Rice here p.m.

1749 December 6 (Wednesday). Mr. Robert Cooks wife here again. I acquaint her with the Difficultys in the way of proceeding to propound her. Ephraim Whitney and Thankful Harrington marry’d a.m. Neighbour Hezekiah How and Neighbour Daniel Warrin assist my son in killing 3 Swine, one weighing above nine, another above 7, another almost 4 Score. Foreseeing I must give some of my Corn to my Cattle and Horses by reason of the shortness of Hay, I chose to kill my Pork early though it be small—have laid up the more Beef. N.B. Mr. Phinehas Hardy has brought 1/2 an Hundred and 8 pound of Iron from Sutton for me, and Mr. Samuel Williams borrows part of it of me. At Eve Mr. Billings, Mr. Bezaleel Eager, Captain Forbush and Lieutenant Thomas Forbush here. The last of them came to know whether I desir’d the Committee of the Precinct would call a precinct meeting to Consider of my Remove nigher the Meeting House, and would send them any Writing on that Hand. I told them I chose they Should themselves consult and advise what would be best to be done.

1749 December 7 (Thursday). Sent Billy to Mr. Billings, who last night took a wrong Hat. He went also to Mr. Martyns to inform him of Mr. Maccartys preaching to our young men next Wednesday—and ask him and his wife to let us wait on them this Time. For I would by all means promote and strengthen the Bonds of our Fraternity.

1749 December 8 (Friday). Tis a great Favour in Providence that we have open and moderate weather again. Deacon Forbush here, and din’d with us. I am sorry there has been Trouble with Deacon Newton about my Dining at his House.

1749 December 9 (Saturday). Lieutenant Tainter came to acquaint me that the Committee of the Precinct would meet at Esq. Bakers next Monday etc. to desire me to give them my Company there at that Time to confer with me about our Affairs and Circumstances at this Day: and especially with reference to my removal also in the Name of Esq. Baker he desir’d I would henceforward till next May, myself and as many of my Family as Should please, would dine at his (Esq. Bakers) House on Lords Days. This was the Result of a Meeting which a Number of Southern Neighbours had at Lieutenant Tainters last Night, when likewise they had Discourse with Deacon Newton for his Conduct about this Affair. Lieutenant remark’d to me and strongly affirm’d that Deacon Newton, when three of them came to my House the Saturday before taking down the old Meeting House to desire and invite me to dine at their Houses on Sabbath Noons, (that then the Deacon) did not invite—as I had suppos’d and had often said.

1749 December 10 (Sunday). Mr. Eliezer Rice sent my Horse in the Morning for us to Meeting. A.M. read the 10th Chapter of Exod. with some Expository remarks, but read p.m. Luke 11, from 14 to 36 without [?]. Preach’d a. and p.m. on 2 Tim. 4.3.4, which I have this Day Seen much more the need of, than while I was composing the Sermons. My Wife and I din’d at Esq. Bakers. I am inform’d that Neighbour Stephen Fay,228 since the forenoon sermon of last Lords Day has been so warm about leaving us and moving to Lambstown, that seat of Disorder and Separation, and principal subject of Discourse at this Time, that he last week went up and brought him a place there. God grant him Grace to make a good use of the seasonable word he has heard to Day! And may it be bless’d as a Solemn Warning to us all!

1749 December 11 (Monday). P.M. according to the Request brought me by Lieutenant Tainter last Saturday I rode over to Esq. Bakers and Met the Committee of the Precinct, viz. Esq. Baker, Lieutenant Tainter, Lieutenant Thomas Forbush, Messrs. James Bowman and Phinehas Hardy. The Business was, They wanted to know whether I expected or desir’d the Precinct to do any Thing for me about my Remove from my present Dwelling to the New Meeting House, which I certify’d them I depended upon their assistance. Was at Merchant Rice’s and had some Talk there with Lieutenant Nathan Brigham of Southborough about the Land round the Meeting House and he seems willing to grant it.

1749 December 12 (Tuesday). Was at Capt. Maynards.

1749 December 13 (Wednesday). Cold. Mr. Martyn and his wife made us a Visit, and din’d here. Mr. Maccarty came from Worcester and preach’d a Lecture to Young Men from Luke 16. If they hear not Moses etc. My son Ebenezer Set the Psalm: and Nathan Maynard read it. Mr. Stone229 and Mr. Smith230 came from Shrewsbury and din’d here but neither they nor Mr. Martyn or his wife went to Lecture. Mr. Edward Goddard came for a Copy of Mr. Isaac Stones Complaint. Hear that Job Cushing is come home.

1749 December 14 (Thursday). Mr. Maccarty left us, to return home to Worcester.

1749 December 15 (Friday). [No entry.]

1749 December 16 (Saturday). Court held at Esq. Liscombs,231 Mr. Abraham Temple and others having prosecuted a Grafton Bridegroom and some of his Attendants for abusing his son Joseph who with some youngsters from Mr. Jonathan Fays in this Town, broke forth Sounding an Horn etc. as the nuptial procession went up into Grafton from Esq. Bakers where their Marriage was Solemnized.

1749 December 17 (Sunday). Cold and rugged Weather. Mrs. Chamberlin rode with my wife and Daughter Lucy and me in our slay. Read part of Exod. 12 and made the Exposition to be a.m. Sermon. My wife and Billy and I din’d at Esq. Bakers. I lengthen’d the Time to an Hour and half Intermission. P.M. read Luke 11.14 to 37. Preach’d on Jer. 6.16. Neighbour Eliezer Rice and his wife (though so Cold a Day) went to Meeting at Grafton. My Lucy din’d at Mr. Abner Newtons. But O that we may be made willing to undergoe unavoidable Difficultys in getting to the Place of worship for the Sake of Communion with God. I have lov’d the Habitation of thine House, says David, and the place where thine Honour dwelleth.

1749 December 18 (Monday). Court held at Esq. Wards,232 the Opposite Party to those which prosecuted on Saturday, viz. Captain Drury and now prosecutor Temple’s son, Eleazer Whitney and Two of Mr. William Nurse’s sons, for their Behaviour. Samuel Bumpso here to borrow money, but declar’d himself to have been clear, not so much as a witness, nor any way concern’d, only that he ow’d his Landlord Fay some Money, and he now wanted it. I lent him 82/. A very Cold Day. P.M. Mrs. Ann Maynard made us a Visit, and it was at the Time when Oliver Whitney233 and Dorcus Forbush234 were marry’d. Neighbour Noah How came and took away Eight stray Sheep to keep, and legally Stray ‘em.

1749 December 19 (Tuesday). My wife and I rode over to visit Mr. Beriah Rice’s Family. Asaph235 is now confin’d to his Bed. We were also at Mr. Jonah Warrins and at Neighbour Pratts, whose youngest Child is Still in a weak state.

1749 December 20 (Wednesday). The season is somewhat Severe—Close Time for Spending Hay. But we are in the Hands of God whose tender Mercys are great. At Mr. Rice’s Desire I wrote a Letter to President Holyoke concerning Asaphs confinement, and sent the pedigree of Mr. Secretary Wyllys236 of Hartford. At Eve Captain Maynard here—made a Business of Consulting him about the Circumstances of my Remove, and desir’d him to Sell me some Land which lys near.

1749 December 21 (Thursday). Very Cold. I kept myself very Close this Week to preparing my Sermons; and did accordingly get forward therein.

1749 December 22 (Friday). Somewhat moderater. Had prepar’d of Sermons as much as might well serve for Two Exercises—besides some Thoughts Expository of the Paragraph of the Chapter which we are next to read. At Eve was sent for to visit Mr. Hezekiah Pratts youngest Child, which Seems to be dying—went and pray’d. Some others of the Neighbours and their Wives being there also.

1749 December 23 (Saturday). Added Somewhat more, by way of Reflection—to my Preparations. Very much wish and desire I would always Enjoy my Saturdays as now. But then it very much takes me off from other Sundays. N.B. Mr. Warrin and his feeble wife here, and Mrs. Bowker; and din’d here.

1749 December 24 (Sunday). The Weather somewhat troublesome. A.M. I read Exod. 12.11 to 20, gave some brief unwritten Remarks or Glances—preach’d a. and p.m. on Jer. 6.16. Din’d at Esq. Bakers, Molly at Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s, and Lucy at Mr. Abner Newtons. P.M. read Luke 11, latter part. In returning home at Eve call’d in at Mr. Hezekiah Pratts, whose youngest Child lyes dead. N.B. It gave me great Relief to be so seasonably prepar’d for the Sabbath and Exercises were perform’d with much more pleasure. My Heart also was not altogether unaffected. Blessed be God for it.

1749 December 25 (Monday). At the Funerall of Mr. Pratts Child—carry’d Lucy, Billy and Sarah in the Slay. Lieutenant Bruce237 was here about the Stables which Several of them had join’d to raise at the Meeting House and had done it last Friday, on the Land which I am buying of Lieutenant Brigham of Southborough.

1749 December 26 (Tuesday). Somewhat Cold but bright. My wife and I rode in the Slay to visit a Number of Neighbours, viz. Captain Forbush,238 Old Mrs. Forbush,239 Lieutenant Bruce, Mr. Amsden, where we din’d—My little Alexander being with us. Then we proceeded to Elisha Wards and return’d by Isaac Amsdens. Were at Mr. Beemans and Eliphalet Adams’s. Were oblig’d to leave the rest of the Familys to some other Time. But alas that no more good is done for the Souls of Men!

1749 December 27 (Wednesday). I think it was the Coldest Morning we have had this Year. But yet towards Noon came Neighbour John Rogers with his Team, and help’d Ebenezer draw two Pine Loggs to the Saw-mill, before night.

1749 December 28 (Thursday). It was very Cold—and somewhat Windy But I was oblig’d to provide another place (than Mr. Eliezer Rice’s) for the Entertainment of my Horse. I undertook a walk—was at Mr. Pratts and Mr. Williams without success. N.B. Reckon’d with Mr. Ebenezer Rice, and din’d there—walk’d up to Mr. Grouts—in returning call’d at Moses Brighams—visited old Mrs. Fay—Exhorted Jeduthun and his wife to attend to their Duty in making a Profession of Religion and that their Children might be baptized—of which they now have five. Call’d also at Neighbour Eliezer Rice’s.

1749 December 29 (Friday). Ebenezer is fitting a pair of Runners for the Chair to be plac’d on. Colonel Nahum Ward here. Wants Copys of Papers in the late Council at Shrewsbury. At Eve had account of the Free masons late procession at Boston.

1749 December 30 (Saturday). Spent myself so much in Expository Preparations that I was belated in preparing for p.m. but my mind had been before engag’d upon it.

1749 December 31 (Sunday). A moderate pleasant Day. A.M. I read Exod. 12.29 to 36. The Exposition was the forenoon Exercise. I din’d at Esq. Bakers. My Wife and Children return’d home in the Slay. P.M. I read Luke 12 to 21. Sermon on Jer. 6.16. In both the Exercises I had reference to the Concluding of the Year. May God accompany etc. Had some lively sense of our Mortal state. May God impress my Soul thoroughly! That when not only Years, but Time itself Shall finish, I may be ready! may be Secure and Happy—But I see I had need to be awake, and diligent for the Grand Period hastens upon Me apace. May God almighty and most mercifull grant His needed Grace!