Diary of Ebenezer Parkman, 1756

1756 January 1 (Thursday). What astonishing Patience and Longsuffering of God this is which endures me so ungrateful and unprofitable a Creature! O might I be made Sutably Sensible of it and of my infinite Obligations to Him herefor!

A.M. I walked to Lt. Forbush’s to talk with him about Mrs. Judith Bellows’s Sorrowful Case, he having gratifyed her by writing Something for her, to be laid before the Church; but which could have no tendency to reconcile the Church to her; as he himself was apprehensive—but he was not at home.

His Daughter in Law, Lucy, Seems to be in great Concern about the true State of her Soul—and is very Serious. May God enlighten, direct and Comfort her!

P.M. I walked to Deacon Forb. and attended the private meeting there: preached on Ps. 39.6, former clause. May God grant there may be lasting Impressions! I rode home one of their Horses. Called at Deacon Bonds, his son Jonathan being still in a weak Condition.

1756 January 2 (Friday). Though I have a great esteem of Mrs. Martyn and her Daughter, and am much obliged to them for their friendly visit, especially as they were willing to undergo the hardship of the Cold, it being a sharp Air; Yet I was Much less capable of receiving the Comfort and Pleasure of their visit to Day, because I wanted the Time in my Study.

1756 January 3 (Saturday). A Storm of Snow, and p.m. clears. Very Cold; especially at night it is very Sharp and frosty. My son Billy, through Gods mercy is grown better. O that his Soul were healed of Spiritual Distempers!

1756 January 4 (Sunday). It was so very Cold I omitted the public reading a.m. Preached on Mat. 16.24. Took Master Gardner home to Dinner. P.M. read Mat. 9 to v. 18. In preaching repeated the latter sermon on 1 Pet. 4.7. The Public Exercises being over about 3 o’Clock I took my Son Ebenezers Mare and rode to Mr. Ebenezer Chamberlins to see his Son Nathaniel again who still lyes in a low State. I called to See aged Mr. Bradish as I returned home.

1756 January 5 (Monday). Bargained with Mr. Ebenezer Forb. for an Hog at 16 d. per pound to be killed to Day. Billy went to Mill to Hopkinton and brought home 3 Bushels Rye which I have bought of Mr. Daniel Forb. N.B. One Roger Alexander of Cumberland (a Baptist by perswasion) here. Lt. Tainter and young Deacon Forb. brought each of them a Load of wood; and sledded 3 Great stones to place, for stone Wall, for me; though it proved a very rainy time, and it was Somewhat Difficult.

1756 January 6 (Tuesday). A warm, comfortable Day. Mr. Abijah Gale came to work for me in closing my Kitchin. Mr. Ebenezer Forb. brought an Hog of 211 lb., at 16 d. old Tenor, per pound, which is £14.1.4, which I have bought of him. And my Son Ebenezer brought 2 Quarters of a Cow he had killed, the weight 200, at 13 d. Deacon Jonathan Forb. junior at night brought me in Cash 24£ 17.3 old Tenor to which we added 4£ and 2 d. of Ebenezer Forb. Rates (part of pay for his Hog) which made 28.17.5 and he had brought me as a present from his Father and himself 22 pound weight of the pork which they had killed. May God grant me an Heart to make a right Improvement of his constant and neverfailing Care and Kindness to me and mine!

1756 January 7 (Wednesday). Another fine Day; but can’t get any body to work on my Kitchin. N.B. John Maynard, Capt. Maynards Grandson, came with a present of Beef and Sewet; but he especially brought from his Grandmother 2 and 1/2 Yards of black, home-made Cloth, to make me a Jacket: it is of fine Wool, and is well wrought—a worthy Token of her Goodness! May God return it in Spiritual Blessings in heavenly Things in Christ Jesus! I casually Struck my Leg against the rough End of a Board, which wounded me much. I sat up very Late at my writing, till 3 Neighbours came from market; and went to bed about 2 o’Clock.

1756 January 8 (Thursday). This was a Day of Publick Humilliation and prayer on Account of the Earthquakes, and of praise for our Deliverance. A.M. I repeated the latter part of Sermon on Ps. 60.1. P.M. preached on Amos 8, former part of 8th and latter part of 10th v. May God accept us; and Bless His word to us! Mr. Ebenezer Baker put up a note incog. brought by Lt. Stephen Maynard.

1756 January 9 (Friday). Had an exceedingly pained Night, by reason of Cold got in my Leg. My Daughter Lucy has received from Mrs. Anne Fleet the Life of Miss Clarissa Harlowe vol. 1 for (under my Direction) She wrote a Letter to her requesting the Favour to read it, which Miss Fleet immediately complyed with.

I think those sorts of Books are indeed to be read Sparingly; and others which Relate to God and the soul and many others still there are to be preferred far before them but yet Such as are bred in the Country, and cant be afforded to live at Boarding schools, may by these Means come to some Taste of brilliant sense, when they cant be polished by Conversation. But this indulgence had need be kept under a Strict Guard, and Caution. Mr. Grow at work and p.m. Messrs. Zebulun Rice, and Alph. Newton, closing.

1756 January 10 (Saturday). I was So lame I didn’t go Out of my Chamber nor so much as across it. Mr. Grow at work, halving Boards for my Kitchin, but did not nail up any to Day by reason of the Wetness of the Season.

1756 January 11 (Sunday). To my great Grief and Sorrow I was detained from the Public Worship. My Lameness and feebleness, the means of it, were Still so great I found I Should incur more Blame, and be in Danger of more Harm, than I might do Good, if I ventured out—for I put notes into my Bible, crawled down below; and was very desirous of going; but I got back again to my Chamber, and was Sensible by this Trial that the Advice of Friends about me had best be complyed with, which was unitedly, that it was not best to attempt it. I therefore resigned, and stayed at Home. May God Sanctifie this His holy Frown upon me! And pity me and Pardon me, for the Lord Jesus Christ sake! I Sent the People Mr. Cottons Way of Life. Lt. Tainter prayed and Deacon Bond read Sermon ii on Zech. 12.10 and concluded with prayer. Deacon Forb. dined here. P.M. Deacon Bond prayed and read Sermon iii on that Text and Lt. Tainter concluded. May God accept their Offerings and give a Blessing to His Word of Grace!

I am grieved also to hear that more of Mr. Chamberlins Family are taken Sick. And particularly Anna, who is very bad, and desires me to Visit her as soon as may be.

1756 January 12 (Monday). A bright Day, but I am confined yet, nor is my Leg much better if any thing at all. This bright Day is therefore turned into Darkness to me. Such is the Sovereign Will of God! To which I humbly beg Grace to submitt. P.M. Mr. Williams to See me. We were out of Small Wood: and my Fire So low I fear I took Cold, for I was very aguish and that was followed with much Pain, feverishness etc. in the Evening and when I got to bed. Brother Forb. came to see me in the Eve, and it was very comforting in my Trouble. Before I went to sleep I had sad fears about my present Condition and what this Lameness would end in; but I endeavoured to Committ my Self to the Glorious and Sovereign God!

1756 January 13 (Tuesday). Had a better night than I expected. Deo Misericordi omnipotenti Gloria! Mr. Eleazer Williams brought a Load of Wood. Mr. Joseph Bowman here, chooses to Suspend his Affair of making Profession of Religion etc. He informs that Mrs. Chaddock (late a member of this Church dwelling in Hopkinton) dyed this morning. May God Sanctifie it to the bereaved Family! And to us all! I Sent by my Son Thomas to Mr. Ephraim How of Marlborough. At Eve Messrs. Whitney and Daniel Forb. here.

1756 January 14 (Wednesday). I was much worse: My Hip was seized with Rheumatism: this nails me to the Bed, to a great Degree. A very rainy Day, yet they bury Mrs. Chaddock. Hear that Deacon William Ward of Southborough is Dead.1 This is much to be lamented, especially for his aged Fathers sake. A Number of Neighbours were here in the Eve after the foresaid Burial. I was somewhat free in speaking to them of Eternal Things. May God Himself impress all our souls!

1756 January 15 (Thursday). A bright and moderate Day. Through Divine Favour I am Somewhat better as to my Rheumatic Disorder. I had put on a Blister, which working well, gave me much Relief. To Gods Name be Glory! As to my sore Leg, I found it Necessary to consult Some Surgeon upon it; and therefore Sent for Dr. Brigham: but he could not come to Day. P.M. Mrs. Ruhamah Newton (Deacons widow) visited me. N.B. Mr. Chamberlins Family greatly distressed, all of them Sick but the man himself. May the Omnipresent, Allsufficient God visit them!

1756 January 16 (Friday). Dr. Brigham visits me—finds, by probing a little, that my Leg is Somewhat hollow. He carrys on a pulticing with pond Lilly roots and Flax-seed; anointing it with Ointment of Marsh mallows—the pledget is of Basilicon. He tells me that Mr. Frink will keep sabbath this way and not return home: I therefore write to him and committ it to the Doctors Care.

1756 January 17 (Saturday). Had an ill night of the last. Had little sleep; and very little Comfort or Refreshment when I did sleep. I was feverish, very faint and weak, as well as my Leg troublesome: my Hip also, although I hope the Rheumatism is stopped, yet continues very sore. Upon the Whole, am in deep Affliction—Yet may the Lord look upon me and graciously afford me some Relief! N.B. I Sent Thomas (on a Horse of one of the Nurse’s) with another Letter to Mr. Frink to get him to preach; he found him at Mr. Lorings (where he also dined) but neither of them could be perswaded to come and preach for me. Mr. Frink was hurt with his Fall from his Horse; and must be at Sudbury again on Monday, which in so extreme bad Travelling he could not return to if he came up: Mr. Loring was too old, and it was stormy, snowed and rained—so Thomas returned unsuccessfull. Dr. Brigham here and dressed my Leg. He thinks it in a good way, and that he shall cure it in a little Time; but I find it very smartfull, and difficult to endure. The Doctor also shav’d me, though I some what feared the Consequence being so weak and feverish. Poor Mr. Ebenezer Chamberlins Family in great Distress—all sick but himself.

1756 January 18 (Sunday). There was a Meeting at the Meeting House, of a few people only. I being still under the holy Frown of Gods providence by Lameness, Mr. Whitney prayed. Lt. Tainter read—and concluded, a.m. P.M. Lieutenant prayed and read. What they read was Mr. Cotton’s sermon. N.B. I sat at Table at Dinner. Mr. Solomon Woods wife dined with us. But O how gloomy these Sabbaths are! May God grant me a proper Sense hereof! My Daughter Lucy not well and stays at home with me.

1756 January 19 (Monday). Dr. Brigham dressed my Wound, and he thinks it in the way of Healing. Mr. Martyn visited and dined with me. We have the sorrowful News of the Death of Miss Anna Chamberlin. At Eve four of the Committee of the Precinct were here to see me, and know whether I would have any thing inserted in their Notification for a Precinct Meeting. My Wood was mentioned; but all was referred to them to do as they Should please. N.B. I walked more on my Leg to Day, than any time Yet.

1756 January 20 (Tuesday). A Very fine Day, but I am yet Confined to my Chamber. Several Friends visited me. Mr. Smith of Marlborough, Dr. Willson from Hopkinton and after the Funeral of Miss Anna Chamberlin, Mr. Stone, who informs me that Mr. Chamberlin did not come to the Grave, because it was concluded that Nathaniel was dying. The Lord in his infinite Compassion visit them in their Miserable State! N.B. Received a second Letter from Mr. Charles Richardson about Grain, whereas I have sent a Letter of my mind to him some time since.

1756 January 21 (Wednesday). A rainy Day. Mr. Forbush came hither. He came from Brookfield Yesterday, and lodged last Night at my Sons. N.B. He and Mr. John Mead dined here. My Leg I hope grows better, and I conceive I grow somewhat Stronger. To God be the Glory! O that I might live to the Lord! who has often appeared for my Help. Mr. Forb. to his Fathers.

1756 January 22 (Thursday). A bright Day. Hear that Nathaniel Chamberlin is yet alive. Can’t but cordially Sympathize with that distressed Family. I went down below, and looked out of Doors, but am too feeble to venture out abroad. Though I feel so much better my self, yet my Wife grows Rheumatic and puts on Blisters. May the Lord fit us for his holy Will!

1756 January 23 (Friday). Another bright Day. Billy winnows up the remainder of our Small matter of Barley. It amounts to about 4 Bushels only. I dare not go out yet. My Wife somewhat better, yet much pained. Mr. Forb. dines here. Capt. Fay tells me he watched at Mr. Chamberlins, and that Nathaniel dyed last Night about 10 o’Clock. I forward Mr. Forb.’s going to See ‘em since I can’t my self. P.M. Mrs. Dolly Rice makes us a kind and generous Visit. She acquaints me further with her domestic Griefs arising from her Husbands Delirium. May God still support and direct her, and in His own time grant her Relief! My Daughter Lucy is much disordered with cutaneous Eruptions in her Face, and we conclude She has an Erysipelas, or St. Anthonys Fire.

1756 January 24 (Saturday). We hear of the Deaths of Several at Marlborough; viz. Mr. Joseph Morse, Lt. Jedidiah Brighams Wife—but in our own Town dye Mr. Elisha Ward, another son of Coll. William Ward. A Sorrowful Stroke! May we make proper Reflections upon it! Nathaniel Longley Chamberlin was buryed; and his Father still confined from this Funeral also, by reason of the low state of the Family. His Wife and daughter Mary very bad, and the youngest child taken ill and cleaves to her Father. A Mournful House! Mr. Stone of Southborough So indisposed he could not be there—hear that the Doctor (Willson) prayed at the Funeral. Mr. Forb. came here at Evening and lodged here.

1756 January 25 (Sunday). It was So cold and windy I did not venture out a.m. Mr. Forb. preached on Act. 8.23. P.M. I went to meeting and prayed. D.G. Mr. Forb. preached on Act. 9.6. And may the divine Blessing accompany the Word of His Grace! My wife and Daughter (Lucy) remain in great Affliction. Mr. Forb. lodged here.

1756 January 26 (Monday). Mr. Forb. came with hopes to have Lucy go to Brookfield. And for that End led down an Horse with side-saddle; but She is so ill that he takes leave without her. N.B. In the Morning we were very much straitned for Wood but p.m. came 4 Load. Mr. Elisha Ward buryed.

1756 January 27 (Tuesday). Almost daily hear from Mr. Chamberlins, of their Great Distress—the woman and her daughter Mary in a dangerous State, the rest ‘tis hoped are recovering. My Wife and Daughter much confined by their pains and Illness—and rather grow worse—especially Lucy’s Face; which is much broke out.

1756 January 28 (Wednesday). The Weather in the Morning was doubtful. My Son William Sat out with a Team made up of my Steers with my sons Cart, and Neighbour Barnabas Newtons oxen, to go to Sutton for Corn from Mr. Trasks. Mr. Jonathan Kenny induces him and is very fair in promising me to go with him and assist him and See him well back as far as Mr. Jennisons—but when Mr. Kenny had set out it began to rain—for which reason I Sent word that if it rained they Should not proceed, yet they proceeded notwithstanding the Rain. Mr. Grow came to work, closing my Kitchin. Lucy grows Worse. Mary Chamberlin (Aet. 18) dyed last Evening.

1756 January 29 (Thursday). Lucy very ill. We improve Dr. Chase for her. We hear Dr. Joshua Smith is buryed to Day. As is Mary Chamberlin; but because of the Weather I could not attend upon it. Governor Shirley goes from Coll. Williams (Marlborough) to Boston.

1756 January 30 (Friday). Lucy had a poor Night: but is Somewhat better to day. Her Face is exceedingly inflamed and covered over with scabbs. At Eve I was in much Trouble about Billy, it being very Dark and Sometimes rainy. At length he came, and Mr. Simon Tainter with him, having another Yoke of Oxen, to assist him. They brought 18 Bushels of Indian Meal, and two of Rye bolted. Mr. Tainter lodged here.

1756 January 31 (Saturday). An exceeding fine Day. I got an Horse at Mr. Nurse’s and visited the South East Corner, particularly Mr. Belknaps Wife. Dr. Willson and I dined there: Mr. Chamberlins Wife near her Departure, yet knows me. I took final Leave of her. All the Children Still confined—two of them in a relapse. I visited also Mary Bellows junior who is very low and in a dangerous State. I prayed with them at each House. A very sorrowful time! May the Lord in the middst of Wrath Remember Mercy!

1756 February 1 (Sunday). Read 1 Kings 7 to 23 v. Preached a. and p.m. on Dan. 4.27. Read p.m. Mat. 9 from v. 18 to the End. Mrs. Chamberlin dyed in the morning. This is the 4th Death of late in that House—but what an Awful Breach This!

May God Support the poor Man under Such grievous Trials!

1756 February 2 (Monday). It was Somewhat rainy and the Roads very heavy, yet I ventured out to the Funeral of Mrs. Chamberlin and truely this was a sore Bereavement indeed!

Six Children are [illegible] all of them confined still with sickness: a Daughter of about 12, the Eldest Daughter living is very bad. I was also at Mr. Ithamar Bellows’, to see his Daughter Mary, who is past Speaking to; his Wife [likewise?] is ill. May God in his infinite Mercy prevent the further Spread of this mortal Disease! My Wife’s Rheumatism increases—but Lucy, through divine Goodness, recovers.

1756 February 3 (Tuesday). A fine, pleasant Day, as to Weather; but a gloomy Day as to Trouble, for now another is dead (Mary Bellows) of the wasting Sickness. O that God would Stay His Hand, and not inflict as we deserve!

1756 February 4 (Wednesday). My Wife is Still exercised with Rheumatism, but Lucy, to our Joy, through divine Favor daily recovers. I attended the Funeral of Mary Bellows junior—her Mother grows worse.

1756 February 5 (Thursday). The Weather generally for some time Southerly; the Earth open; the Frost going out of the Ground—tis feared this Air is insalubrious, and that the Distemper among us will have advantage hereby. We hear the Doctors Willson and Brigham are Sick. Dr. Chase also complains much of Fever and Canker. I preached at old Mr. Bradish’s on Rev. 22.14. May God enable me to understand and Do His Commandments that I may have happy Share in that Blessedness! But what abundant Reason to be deeply humbled that I fall so extremely Short! And what infinite need of the Mediation and Righteousness of Jesus Christ, in Order to my Acceptance with God!

1756 February 6 (Friday). Reckoned and settled an old Account with Mr. Ephraim Bruce late Collector. This I have the more reason to take notice of as I have so innumerable Times requested this Settlement of him and it was always deferred. At Eve came Mr. Daniel Forbush and brought a live Pig, which weighed 90 lb. at 12 d. per pound. N.B. He tells me that Several Friends have desired that I would finish the Affair of the Towns arrearage for the Year 1744 by giving a full Discharge. I told him it was not so much the Money which made me refuse, as the Injustice, and the unsuitable Treatment I met with from them which they ought to be made sensible of: but I thanked him for his kind Office, and told him I would think of what was best to be done, and prepare something against the Meeting next Monday.

1756 February 7 (Saturday). Billy has cleared up my few Oates and brought them in. I had chiefly prepared for the Sabbath ensuing Some time agoe yet fearing there was not a sufficiency, and my thoughts running out further in my Subject I wrote considerable more. May God affect my own Heart there with! And O that I might always first feel and Obey what I prepare as the Counsel of God!

1756 February 8 (Sunday). Read a.m. 1 K. 7 from v. 23. Preached a. and p.m. on Dan. 4.27. P.M. read Mat. 10. O that every thing that Obstructs the Success of the Word of God might be removed, and that the Divine Counsel might be acceptable and be obeyed by us all!

1756 February 9 (Monday). Billy went to Mr. Cutlers in Sudbury to change Barley for Malt. P.M. came Messrs. Daniel Forb. and Solomon Woods as they went to the Adjournment of the Town Meeting at Capt. Maynards. I had prepared a Paper directed to the Moderator but I sent it Somewhat unwillingly by them considering the different Frame they were in from what I expected. However, I committed to God who has the Hearts of all Men in His Hands, the whole Affair, and desire humbly to repose my Self in His Goodness. At Evening those Brethren returned from the Town Meeting and Young Deacon Forb. with them, and they reported that my Paper was read, and after a few had Spoke (Lt. Wood and Mr. Francis Whipple against it, and Lt. Forb. whether something might not be done upon it) it was delivered to the Town Clerk (the said Mr. Whipple). No further regard was shewn it. May God grant me wisdom and Grace Suitably to conduct under such Treatment! And God be gracious to them and forgive them!

1756 February 10 (Tuesday). A number of Men, Mr. Daniel Forb., Deacon Forb., Moses Warrin, Neighbour Pratt, Neighbour Eli[e]zer Rice, etc. clear up the Burying Place. The 3 first dined here and I asked divers besides but they were provided. N.B. Wrote to Capt. Stevens of Groton and desired Lt. Tainter to deliver it to Coll. Lawrence, the Representative of that Town. P.M. The Precinct Meeting for Debts, was accompanyed (according to the Warrant) with an Article concerning my Wood. It was tryed, but though there was a major Vote, yet it was but of one. And they could not obtain a vote of how it Should be got. So that it was revoked. However, there was a Subscription, which Deacon Bond brought me at Eve. God grant me an Equal Mind whatever befalls me!

1756 February 11 (Wednesday). Wrote to Messrs. Edes and Gill for their News Paper. This I did at the Desire and Cost of three of my Neighbours, viz. Messrs. Nat. Whitney, Daniel Forb. and Zebulun Rice. Was at Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s and reckoned and settled with him; as I did also with Mr. Beeton. Mary Lattiner here about her joining to the Church.

1756 February 12 (Thursday). Am in much Concern what to do in providing for my son William, it being high time he Should be put out an Apprentice since I can’t (as I Should much rather choose) give him a Liberal Education. At Eve Lt. Tainter brings various Things from Boston for us: particularly 20£ of Wool. N.B. he has found a Purse on the Road with a Quantity of money both silver and Gold.

1756 February 13 (Friday). Thomas Drury (by whom I sent to Messrs. Edes and Gill) returns without having delivered my Letter, or seeing the men. Thomas and Lucy ride in my Chair to Brookfield. Messrs. Snow and Gale at work in preparing to lay my Kitchin Floors.

1756 February 14 (Saturday). [No Entry.]

1756 February 15 (Sunday). Read 1 King 8 to v. 23. Preached on Heb. 12.29, repeating what I had heretofore delivered on that Text, but with Alterations and Additions. The Occasion was Several, late remarkable Judgments of God, not only Malignant Fever among our selves, but very Observable Desolations of great Citys abroad, by Fires and Earthquake. Ex. gr. Constantinople, in which last Sept. 25,000 Houses and above 800 Persons were destroyed. P.M. read Mat. 11 and Preached on Mat. 16.24 and May God give His Special Blessing!

1756 February 16 (Monday). Brother Hicks here, going to Boston on the Affair of Elijah Collins. I visited Mr. Ithamar Bellows’ Wife and Daughter, who are sick. It is Still open, moderate Weather. An uncommon Winter. Heard that Dr. Brigham dyed yesterday.

1756 February 17 (Tuesday). Spring like Weather. Read Dr. Gill against Mr. Dickinson on Infant Baptism. Received considerable sum of Money of Deacon Forb.—above 50£ Old Tenor in Gold.

1756 February 18 (Wednesday). It being a pleasant Day, I walked over to t’other House. My son not at home, but I renewed my Desires and Instructions to my Daughter in Law, respecting her Making a profession of Religion. N.B. her Father called at my House this Morning as he was in his way from his son Bonds to his Brother Davids Funeral. I made a Visit at Mr. Ebenezer Maynards.

1756 February 19 (Thursday). The Winds exceeding high last night. Windy and Cold to Day. I rode to Marlborough to the Funeral of Dr. Samuel Brigham. Neighbour Pratt favored me with his Horse—visited the widow of the late Mr. Elisha Ward. Dined at Mr. Smiths, where was also Mr. Stone. I prayed before the Corps were carryed out. This Death is much lamented. May God Support the Relatives under the Sore Bereavement especially our dear Kinswoman. I returned home at Evening. Thomas is come back from Brookfield. My Daughter Forbush, through God’s Goodness has another Daughter born on the 17th. May our Covenant God command His Blessing to rest upon her! And make her a rich Blessing! Ebenezer here at Evening.

1756 February 20 (Friday). Mr. Moses Twitchell dined here. At Eve settled with Mr. Jonah Warrin. My Wife much Exercised with Rheumatic Pains, and Clouds before her Eyes. Thomas so ill he is confined to the House.

1756 February 21 (Saturday). A very unusual Sight this Morning: the Earth Covered with Snow; which we have not seen this great While. Thomas no better.

1756 February 22 (Sunday). A.M. delivered an Expository Exercise on 1 K. 8 to 21. P.M. read Mat. 12. Preached on Mark 8.34. May God grant me to be one of the true, gracious, Cross-bearers! My Son Thomas keeps House yet.

1756 February 23 (Monday). Messrs. Cushing and Martyn dined here. The former requests me to assist at a Fast in Shrewsbury next Thursday appointed by the Church on Account of Mr. Samuel Wheelock who remains in a distracted Condition. Mr. Martyn came with a View to going to Mendon with Mr. Stone, to consult Mr. Dor upon Woodstock affairs. Both of them return home unsuccessful.

Mr. Cushing, because I am going to Boston (by leave and help of God), Mr. Martyn, because Mr. Stone does not come, but sends to me a Letter of the Sickness and Mortality among them in Southborough; which prevents his going; or meeting Mr. Martyn here. P.M. I visited at Mr. Biglows and at Mr. Jonah Warrins. High Winds in the night.

1756 February 24 (Tuesday). Sat out, on my sons Mare, for Boston. Mr. Stone had sent to me, but the Message had not arrived, to assist him in a Fast next Thursday in Southborough on Account of the Sickness there. N.B. five lay dead yesterday in that place. Old Mr. Graves and his wife were buryed there to day in one grave. When I got to Mr. Bridge’s at Framingham it was so cold and late that I tarried there over Night.

1756 February 25 (Wednesday). Sharp Cold Morning but I prosecuted my Journey, to Mr. Woodwards of Weston and obtained a promise of him to go on Thursday to the Assistance of Mr. Stone. Dined at Mr. Cushings, but without him. At Newtown took Capt. Thomas Prentice with me to Mr. John Rogers’s to talk with him about his taking my son William Apprentice and to teach him the Smiths and Clock-Makers Business. N.B. Capt. Prentice’s wife Sick. At Boston put up at Proctors; and lodged at my Brother Parkmans. The Coldest night of a long time. One James Allen, a French man, who has been burnt out, at Hopkinton, was with me at Framingham, to desire the Charity of our Congregation.

1756 February 26 (Thursday). Visited my Sister Rebecca. N.B. her Negro woman dead Since I was last there. At the Public Lecture, Mr. Cooper preached an excellent though Short Sermon on 1 Cor. 6.11. Dined at my Kinsman Winters. P.M. Settled my Account with Mrs. Stoddard. Visited Mr. Prince. At Eve at Mr. Lowders. Lodged at Brother Samuels. It was a Cold Day, but I enjoy, through God’s Goodness, Comfort and Health.

1756 February 27 (Friday). My Business required haste. It was my Wish and endeavour to get up to Weston by 2 p.m. to preach Mr. Woodwards Lecture—but It was a Cold morning So that people stirred early very unwillingly and I had much to do which I could not dispatch yesterday. Got only as far as Mrs. Negus’s by dinner time. Dined there. At Capt. Prentice’s found his Spouse very low. Prayed with her. Mrs. Cotton there. At parting my Friend was greatly distressed, under the apprehension of the very dangerous Condition of one so near to him. Mr. Rogers gives me no determinate answer about Billy. Lodged at Mr. Williams at Weston. How sorrowful (alas!) that Such Talents Should be buryed in Obscurity!

1756 February 28 (Saturday). Mr. Williams gives me Some Account of the Conduct of the Gales among them and what a Sorrowfull Condition the whole Family is in. Called at Mr. Woodwards—find that it would be very difficult to attempt any thing in favour of Mr. Williams preaching again. Dined at Mr. Bridge’s. N.B. Sent Rev. Mr. Badger of Natick a Pamphlet, the Oeconomy of human Life, by an Oriental Bramin, in the room of that which I borrowed of him, and sent back but never arrived to his Hands. I sent this by Mr. Joseph Graves of Natick, who called with me at Dr. Hemingways. When I got to Mr. Stones heard that Mr. David Burnap dyed last night, in Southborough. Got home in safety and found my House in safety—Blessed be God! Our great Preserver and Benefactor!

1756 February 29 (Sunday). Read a. and p.m. Mat. 13 and preached both a. and p.m. on v. 9–17. O that God would grant us an Ear, and enable us to hear! Save us from Spiritual Judgment, and grant us the Special Blessings which are the genuine Fruit of distinguishing Privileges rightly improved! Mr. Martyn not well, many of the North side here at Meeting. Sir Gardner and Mr. John Martyn junior dined here.

1756 March 1 (Monday). It was Town Meeting Day. One of the Select Men, Mr. David Maynard junior was with me to obtain my Consent to laying out a Road through my Land North of the Meeting House which I gave freely. And since he, and another desired I would not go from home till noon or would return home by that time, inasmuch as the Town might want my Help (however, the meeting was warned as I was informed, to be at 9 or 10 a.m.), I therefore tarryed at home, though otherwise I should have Visited Mr. Joseph Woods, and others in that Corner of the Town who are sick; dined at Home, and Stayed till nigh half after one, p.m. but there not coming any Message from the Town to me, I had reason to conclude they had no Service for me. And therefore I rode to the Old Widow Rogers to See her, She still remaining sick and by reason of my Journey last week I had not visited her. Thus there was no prayer at the Town Meeting; which I think is matter of Serious Reflection.

1756 March 2 (Tuesday). Great storm, Snowed hard and covered the Ground some Inches. Such a sight as we have not had for Several Months. Robert Cook here with a Petition for a Contribution. Mr. Jonas Bond and his wife (of Sutton) dined here. P.M. the storm clearing away I attended the Funeral of an infant Child of Mr. Thomas Goodenow. And thence I went to see Mr. Martyn who is confined by Indisposition. Mr. Stone was there also. And we both lodged there.

1756 March 3 (Wednesday). Mr. Stone and I rode together to the Bounds of Southborough from whence I proceeded to visit the Sick Families in our South East Corner: viz. Mr. Joseph Woods: Mr. Belknaps Son, Mr. Chamberlins and Mr. Ithamar Bellows’s. N.B. dined at Mr. Snow’s. N.B. The very Obstinate Frame of Mrs. Judith Bellows, whom I visited once more—but with out any good Effect. Yet both her Husband and her Daughter Comfort as much as testify She is in the wrong.

1756 March 4 (Thursday). Mary Latimer here on the Affair of her Relation. My Wife rides over to t’other House. Mr. Daniel Warrin brings various Notes, but no Money; and cant make up yet by above 22£ old Tenor. P.M. Mrs. Elizabeth Harrington (wife of Ensign) here, in Spiritual Trouble. N.B. She tells me Deacon Newtons Widow told her yesterday that I was not to be at her House to Day, at the Private Meeting—(Yet thus I had layed the Matter when I discoursed with her, and induced her to continue it there in its turn, viz. that since her Husband was Dead, I would attend there in his stead.)

1756 March 5 (Friday). [No entry.]

1756 March 6 (Saturday). Mr. Daniel Warrin informs that our Kinswoman, Dr. Brighams Widow, is So very ill that it is doubted whether She will live. P.M. I rode to Marlborough; and, Mr. Smith having Several times expressed his readiness to change, I now desired to, and he complyed. Whilst he rode to Westborough I visited Mrs. Brigham—found her bad, but her Case not desperate. She talked freely and with strength. I lodged at Mr. Smiths. N.B. Mrs. Dean, Sister to Mr. Smith there. The sorrowful story of Mr. Cutler minister of part of Exeter confirmed; and is to be deeply lamented.

1756 March 7 (Sunday). Preached at Marlborough a. and p.m. on Jer. 6.16. Visited Mrs. Brigham both at noon and at Eve. I returned home, at Night. Mr. Smith preached at Westborough on 2 Cor. 5.11. May God Himself Succeed and confirm the Word of His Grace! N.B. Old Mrs. Bruce is very ill again.

1756 March 8 (Monday). Precinct Election of Their Officers. N.B. No Message to pray with them though I went not from home—till Eve, when I visited Alpheus Newton whose Child is sick—but Commissioners are there, on the Affair of Dividing their Estate, so that I made not a long Stay.

1756 March 9 (Tuesday). Billy waits on his Mother in the Chair to Marlborough to see her Neece, the widow of Dr. Brigham: and return safely at Eve. N.B. Dr. Crosby here to confer about the late Dr. Smiths Account. N.B. Mr. Eliphalet Adams dined here. P.M. Sent by Deacon Bond £5.12/ to Mr. James Allen, Taylor at Boston, being the Ballance of Ebenezers Account with him.

1756 March 10 (Wednesday). Mr. Moses Twitchell works for me. Spreads Muck; Clears north of the Burying place. Lecture preparitory to the Sacrament. Mr. Stone preached—his Text Eph. 5.18, latter part. May God add his Blessing.

1756 March 11 (Thursday). Colder than it has been a great while. I preached a Lecture at Southborough. Text, Judg. 14.14. At Eve was at Lt. Nathan Brighams. And visited Mrs. Bruce who is Sick again, and confined to her Chamber. Returned home at Night.

1756 March 12 (Friday). Cold Day, to Day also. Brother Hicks here in his Return from Boston, where he has been this Month, waiting upon his Case with Elijah Collins, which after all he has lost—except what the Judges in Chancery do for him. Mr. John Green of Brookfield here. Also Mrs. Whipple (wife of Thomas) in Some spiritual Difficultys.

1756 March 13 (Saturday). Storm of Snow. Ebenezer brought over Samuel from t’other House and John remains there.

1756 March 14 (Sunday). Omitted the Public Reading a.m. Preached on Rev. 5.5. Administered the Lords supper. P.M. read 1 King 8 from v. 22, and gave an Expository Exercise upon it. Betty Bellows bad again; and I would gladly go to See her, but that I have not an Horse, neither am I firm enough after the Exercises of Such a Day to bear the Evening Air. May God grant my Heart may be ever right with Him; and ever stedfast in His Covenant!

1756 March 15 (Monday). Rode a.m. to Mr. Ithamar Bellows to See his Daughter Betty, who is very ill, and hardly in her Senses—fear She will Soon depart. I dined there. P.M. having ministred to the poor Young Woman as She was able to receive it, I visited Mr. Belknaps Children, Mr. Joseph Woods and Mr. Chamberlins Family and returned at Eve by Mr. Eliphalet Adams’s, who is sick also. [Marginal notation: Billy went on the 15th to work for Mr. Moses Twitchell.]

1756 March 16 (Tuesday). Visited Old Mr. Fay and his Wife. Would fain have talked with his son Jeduthun but he was not at home. Was Strenuous with his Wife to have her consider her own great Duty and attest to it. They have now Eight Children and all unbaptized.

1756 March 17 (Wednesday). Rode to Marlborough. Visit Mrs. Brigham who is recovering. Was at Mr. Henry Barns’s—N.B. her Harpsichord. At Madam Woods’s (or rather Brighams). Dined at Mr. Smiths. Preached his Lecture on Joh. 1.11. At Coll. Williams at Eve; Capt. Fay accompanyed me home. N.B. Mr. Jacob Amsden taken sick of a Fever. I called to see him. N.B. Betty Bellows dyed about 10 a.m., Aetatis 18. Extremely Sorrowful in that House and Neighborhood, there being no other Daughter in that Family; and but one or two more Young Women in that Corner of the Town. It is a Time of Sickness and mortality in the Other part of the Town likewise. May God fit us for His divine Will!

1756 March 18 (Thursday). Mr. [blank] Winchester of Brookline, and Mr. Samuel Sparhawk of Cambridge dined here. The former wants to buy a place. P.M. I attended the Funeral of Mrs. Betty Bellows. At Eve Mr. Samuel Fay junior here; and disturbed that I did not Visit his Children when He was under Trouble in the Months Past; and especially when he went to Albany—whereas I dont remember that I was Seasonably informed of it: and was, I think, at Sutton when he went: Was confined by Lameness and Sickness some part of the Winter: but, in brief, he being so often from home, I did not think of Visiting the Family, till I might enjoy the Company of the head of it.

1756 March 19 (Friday). Rain. Engaged in my preparations.

1756 March 20 (Saturday). When my Thoughts were deeply engaged in my preparations and I depended much on to Day for writing, I was called away to the North End of the Town, to a Funeral, viz. of Charles M’Allister—in his 32d Year and was the first Child that I ever Baptized: old Mr. Increase Ward being the first Person. I dined at Mr. Martyns, who is still drooping and most of his Family indisposed. In returning I called at Mr. Masons, at his Desire, and gave a Testimony concerning Mr. David Maynard junior to be carryed to Rev. Henchman of Lyn, carefully inserted that it Should not be understood as Passing my Word for him etc.

1756 March 21 (Sunday). Read 1 K. 9. Repeated Expositions on Mat. 13.45.46 a. and p.m. and p.m. read the latter part of that Chapter from v. 31. N.B. I introduced the forenoon exercise with informing the Audience “That the Providences and Services of the Last Week had prevented my preparing, as I had designed, upon a subject that I had already made Some Progress in etc.” I appointed divers Catechizings, and an Exercise at Lt. Bruce’s, in the ensuing Week. After Exercises Stopped the Church on the Affair of Mrs. Judith Bellows, and the Church passed a vote to Suspend her from the Communion and from all special Privileges in this Church. N.B. read the Petitions of James Allen of Hopkinton for a Contribution among us. He had been burnt out, and lost his Goods, though the House was not his. I read two Certificats concerning him; one from Simpson Jones Esq., the Other from Rev. Mr. Barrett. I read also the Petition of Robert Cook, for a Contribution for him to assist him in building an House. Having read these Petitions I desired the Deacons of the Church and the Committee of the Precinct would meet and advise what is best to be done.

1756 March 22 (Monday). There being divers Carpenters at work in the Meeting House (they were building Pews for Mr. Ebenezer Rice, Capt. Fay and Mr. David Maynard), I was obliged to take the Children to my own House to Catechizing. N.B. 28 Boys a.m. and 28 Girls p.m.

1756 March 23 (Tuesday). My Wife and I rode to Ensign Millers, being formally invited to the Raising a New Barn there.

1756 March 24 (Wednesday). A.M. I rode to Mr. Ithamar Bellows’s, their son Simeon being sick. Visited also Mr. Belknap, who with four of his Children are Sick. Visited Jabez Snow, sick—and Mr. Amsden, still Sick. There I dined. P.M. I preached at Lt. Bruce’s, by Reason of his Wife’s long Confinement. Text Isa. 55.6. Rain p.m.

1756 March 25 (Thursday). Held a Catechetical Exercise to Young Men (about 20) On the Power, Holiness and Justice of God. Used chiefly sermon on Exod. 33.18: page 7 and from p. 11 to 15. At Eve the Deacons of the Church and the Committee of the Precinct Met at my Chamber to consult about the Petitions for Contributions. They were unanimously against any for Mr. Cook, and for one in behalf of Mr. Allen.

1756 March 26 (Friday). Mr. Francis Gardner comes again into our Parish to keep school; and both lodges and keeps School at my Son’s.

1756 March 27 (Saturday). Mr. Daniel Forb. dined here. N.B. He and Mr. Edwards Whipple are preparing a Second (Stone) step for the front Door of the Meeting House. P.M. Mr. Forb. underpins my Kitchin, north side.

1756 March 28 (Sunday). Read 1 King 10. Preached a. and p.m. on Mark 8.34. Read p.m. Mat. 14.

1756 March 29 (Monday). Rain. One John Connor dined here.

1756 March 30 (Tuesday). I went over to my Son, who is very backward about the Business of the Season. He is perplexed by Richard Barns.

1756 March 31 (Wednesday). An unusually Cold Season for a Considerable While. Mr. Joseph Manning from Brookfield, here.

1756 April 1 (Thursday). Rain. I preached at the Private Meeting at Mr. Zebulun Rice’s; on 2 Pet. 1.10. My wife was with me; and we were well entertained by the Family after the Exercises. N.B. Sorrowfull Account from Leicester of the Sudden Death of Mr. Joshua Smith and his son there, by the Fall of a Tree, which was blown down upon them. A Third man was wonderfully preserved among the Limbs of the Tree.

1756 April 2 (Friday). [No entry.]

1756 April 3 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1756 April 4 (Sunday). Read 1 King. 11. Preached on Mark 8.34 a. and p.m. Read p.m. Mat. 15 and (after the Baptism of a Child) had a Contribution for James Allen of Hopkinton who was lately burnt out.

1756 April 5 (Monday). Visited Mr. Moses Twitchell’s Child that is Sick; at Mr. Dunlops. At Deacon Forbush’s at Eve to count out the Contribution-Money of Yesterday. It amounted to 17£ and 12/ as we estimated it.

1756 April 6 (Tuesday). Mr. Asaph Rice dined here. Mr. Dunlop worked for me in my Garden. Billy ploughed at Cook field.

1756 April 7 (Wednesday). My sons wife and son rode to Watertown in my Chair. I rode Barny Newtons Mare to Young Mr. Martyns Raising. Visit Capt. Forb.’s Wife, and Cornet Brighams son.

1756 April 8 (Thursday). Endeavour to raise a Team for crossing the Field behind the Meeting House. Mr. Manning from Cambridge—and lodges here.

1756 April 9 (Friday). Mr. Manning leaves us to go to Brookfield. Mr. Moses Nurse breaks up a Yard at the East End of my House. P.M. Mrs. Judith Bellows here; She is somewhat more moderate and mollifyed and desires we would not immediately proceed further against her in the Church. Yet I fear her mind in the main is not altered. God be mercifull to her and shew her her Error! And grant us Grace to conduct in a suitable manner in the Discharge of our Duty towards her! At Eve Mr. Zebulun Rice acquaints me that Ensign Harrington and Others are laying a scheme to come and cross my New Field.

1756 April 10 (Saturday). Mr. James Allen for whom we contributed here.

1756 April 11 (Sunday). Read 1 King. 12. Text Luk. 9.23. P.M. repeated on Mat. 15.21–28.

1756 April 12 (Monday). A.M. Garden. P.M. visit Aged Mr. Bradish and Mr. Snows Family.

1756 April 13 (Tuesday). To Lt. Tainters and Harrington. To Hopkinton. Dined with Mr. Barrett. P.M. to Sir Harry Franklands Seat to See Mr. [Troutbeck?] and Dr. Jones. Mr. Barrett with me. Returned at Eve. Vines, etc. Fine warm Weather.

1756 April 14 (Wednesday). Elisha Jones came yesterday and prepared to go to work—and this morning came Mr. Daniel Willard and Elisha Jones to lay Floors etc. in my Kitchin. Ebenezer has a Cause against Richard Barns before Justice Baker. N.B. Mr. Willard was absent so much as that he counted but 1/2 Day. I was at Mr. Eliezer Rices: he agrees to burn the Ministerial Meadow tomorrow, by leave of providence. Mr. Willard and Elisha Jones lodge here. Warm Day.

1756 April 15 (Thursday). Mr. Daniel Forb.’s Son Daniel with 4 Oxen and Asher Newton with 4 Oxen likewise come to cross my field behind the Meeting House. Through a Mistake another set of Oxen did not come. We got Mr. Zebulun Rice’s. His son Adam came and drove: and put in my own steers. My son Thomas assisted—and with these was accomplished a good piece of work. Mr. Willard and young Jones at work in the Kitchin. At Eve Willard left us: Elisha lodges here. N.B. It was an Hot Day, and sometimes Windy. Sarah goes to live at t’other House.

1756 April 16 (Friday). It has been a dry hot season of late, but to Day Cloudy and p.m. rain. Mr. Jonah Warrin came with 4 Oxen, Ensign Harrington with 4 and Mr. Benjamin Tainter with 6, cross-ploughed the rest of my Field behind the Meeting House; and finished by 5 p.m. though it rained hard. Elisha Jones at work at the Kitchin. At Eve came the late Treasurer Phinehas Hardy, and Collector Daniel Warrin; but they don’t make up. The storm prevails, and one of my young Cattle missing—the Evening Dark, it can’t be found.

1756 April 17 (Saturday). This morning my sons found the young Steer dead in Mr. D. Hardys Meadow; both mired and drown’d. The storm very vehement. Elisha Jones at work about the West Door of the Kitchin.

1756 April 18 (Sunday). Read 1 K. 13. Preached on Luk. 9.23. P.M. read Mat. 16. Elisha Jones with us over the Sabbath.

1756 April 19 (Monday). Elisha Jones at work here still. He is casing and facing the West Door and about the Door it self.

1756 April 20 (Tuesday). I left Elisha Jones at work and went to the Association at Marlborough. I called at Mr. Barns’s and endeavoured to put some stop to the Troubles which he was involved in by an Execution in behalf of Mr. Green at Worcester, and would have traded with him for a little piece of Land joining to my Farm where my son lives, and chiefly for the Sake of the Damm there; but in vain. My sons affair with him I could not meddle with. At Mr. Smiths were nine or ten of us together. Mr. Martyn gave us a laboured Concio on Isa. 2.5, first v. At Eve Dr. Morse was called away. Messrs. Seccomb, Goss, Davis and I lodged at my Kinswomans Mrs. Anna Brighams. N.B. had Capt. Maynards Horse.

1756 April 21 (Wednesday). At the Public Lecture I prayed and Mr. Barret preached on Ps. 139.2, last v. P.M. Mr. Martyn prepared a Letter to be sent (in his own Name) to Deacon Mellens of Hopkinton in Answer to His to the Association. I rode to Mr. Jonathan Lorings and returned his Chandler’s History of Persecution which I have had, now a very long time; but he Said I was most welcome; and his Conduct was very friendly. In my returning Home I called at Mr. Richard Barns’s to See what could still be done for his Relief but he was not at Home.

1756 April 22 (Thursday). This Day was a general Training every where—but the Companys apart. The Design was to try for enlisting Soldiers for the Expedition against Crown Point: this tryal to be till 4 o’Clock p.m. and if Men did not offer willingly, then to press. I had appointed my Lecture at 2 p.m. before I knew of the Training. Therefore I did not put it by, but attended it, and preached from Ps. 68.24. The whole Exercise but little more than an Hour. After Meeting Mr. Ebenezer Rice, sheriff, came into my House with Mr. Richard Barns again—but our Efforts to help him were in Vain. N.B. Barns and Silas Frost had listed [blot] press[blot]men etc.

1756 April 23 (Friday). The Chief Noise is about the pressed mens paying their Fines. They were these following Messrs.: Timothy Warrin, Jonathan Fay, Samuel Forb. junior, Solomon Maynard and Amasa Maynard.

1756 April 24 (Saturday). Could prepare but one Sermon for tomorrow, but it was long.

1756 April 25 (Sunday). I administered the Lords supper. Read 1 King. 14. Preached on Rev. 5.6. P.M. repeated Expository Exercise on Mat. 15.29. N.B. My Kinsman Daniel Needham from Norwich came this morning from t’other House, but he did not Partake with us.

1756 April 26 (Monday). Brother Hicks came from Sutton for Boston. Cousen Needham (with him) left us. Mr. Dodge of Abington and his spouse dined here. P.M. I rode to the Funeral of a Child of Mr. Jabez Snow’s which dyed by means of being burnt by a Warming Pan.

In returning from Mr. Snows I stopped at Lt. Bruce’s, where was Capt. Taplin and his Company: by his Request I prayed and gave them a word of Exhortation and Caution.

1756 April 27 (Tuesday). Billy carts Muck from the Barn. Nathan Kenny helps him. It is to my great Comfort that Billy is able to do So well for me as he does, since it is so exceeding Difficult for me to get Help. I sent a Letter of Solemn Warning to Mr. Richard Barns who is gone into the service.

1756 April 28 (Wednesday). Billy at Neighbour Nurse’s part of the Day. I desire to be humble that I am so poorly capable of the Great Work I am called to: and would lament my Dullness, and ill Frame in general. O that the Lord would revive and quicken me!

1756 April 29 (Thursday). Public Fast. A.M. on Mat. 6.16.17.18. P.M. Ps. 46.1.

1756 April 30 (Friday). Visited Mr. Bowman who is Sick. Dined at Deacon Forbush’s. P.M. was a Vendue of Mr. Richard Barns’s Substance, So much as to satisfie for his Debts to Mr. Coroner Green of Wor’ster, and my son Ebenezer. It was at his Father Bruce’s, and was managed by Mr. Ebenezer Rice, Deputy-Sheriff. It was an Affair that affected me much, but the foolish man was obstinately neglectfull and insulting (as I understood)—and it was the more grievous as the man himself was gone (having marched last Tuesday) yet he was Sufficiently warned and Cautioned.

At Eve a number of Young Men met here in order to form into a society. I instructed, directed, cautioned and prayed with them; and they Signed the Articles which the former young-Mens Society did; and that Copy drawn by my son Ebenezer which bears Date of 174[blank]. Their Names were Thomas Parkman, Jonathan Grout, Samuel, Thomas and Noah Hardy, Barnabas Newton, Joseph Baker, Daniel Forb. junior, Abner Warrin, Abner Whipple, and Joseph Harrington. And they are, by divine Leave, to meet next Lords Day Evening at the widow Newtons. May God be gracious to them and meet with them!

1756 May 1 (Saturday). At Evening I received a Letter from Capt. Jeduthun Baldwin at Fort William Henry of April 12 containing a sorrowful Account of the Loss of Six Men belonging to them by the Enemy and of the Sickness, Lameness etc. of many others, whilst the Enemy are busy round about them.

1756 May 2 (Sunday). A great Storm of Rain and Wind. A.M. I preached on Job 37.6, latter part and v. 11. P.M. on Ps. 46.10. Read a.m. 1 King. XV. P.M. Mat. 17. Mr. Gardner (Schoolmaster) dined here.

1756 May 3 (Monday). Mr. Hall of Sutton here. Mrs. Mercy Chamberlin here and greatly distressed by Reason of her Remove back to Sheffield, and her Husband going into the Warr. N.B. Billy ploughing at the Island, Joseph Rice helps him. Wrote a Letter to Capt. Jeduthun Baldwin. N.B. Joseph Rice lodges here. Joseph Chaddock brought a Load of Rails from Mr. M. Twitchels.

1756 May 4 (Tuesday). Joseph Rice a.m. helps Billy in Ploughing at the Island and in my young Orchard near the Barn. P.M. I Catechized at the School-House. 19 Males, 21 Girls. Visited Mr. Joseph Bruce and Family—and at Mr. Daniel Hardys, Biglows, Cornelius Junior his Wife; he being gone into the Service—Kellys etc. N.B. brought home Dr. Sibbs’s Folio. N.B. left my Mare at Mr. Biglows for to Night.

1756 May 5 (Wednesday). Very Cold Winds. Brother Hicks was here Yesterday, while I was absent, and left me a Message from Brother Champney of Cambridge, which because of my inability to fulfill putts me to much Trouble of mind. P.M. Charles Rice junior works for me. He and Billy (with my own Team) ploughs the rest of the Field by the Barn.

1756 May 6 (Thursday). Lt. Jonas Brigham undertook the Moving of his biggest Barn, of 50 feet. At his Desire I was there and Supped with them but the Barn was moved but part of the Way. Very Cold Winds; my Health was much exposed; but I chiefly regretted the Loss of my Time, a great deal of which might have been improved much better otherwhere.

1756 May 7 (Friday). Mr. Ebenezer Rice is about Selling Mr. Beeton his Pasture of 28 Acres Southerly and Easterly of Barny Newtons. Lt. Ward Set me off, in my Plan, the Acre South of the meeting House, and informs me of a little Bit at the t’other End of that Land, which he would Sell me; and leaves me the Refusal of it.

1756 May 8 (Saturday). Billy plants Indian Corn at the Island, the weather p.m. being warmer.

1756 May 9 (Sunday). Read 1 Kings XVI. Preached on the Subject I have been So long upon, of Self-Denyal; now delivering the Concluding part. It was from that Text Mat. 13.51. P.M. read Mat. 18 and repeated with innumerable Alterations my Exposition of Mat. 13.51.

1756 May 10 (Monday). Writings prepared for Mr. Rice and his Neighbour Beeton’s Bargain of the Pasture etc. Visit Mr. Samuel Fay junior but especially his Son Samuel in his languishing Condition. N.B. a.m. finished planting the Island, the Weather now being very good. Mr. William Pierce worked for me, making Stone Wall back of the meeting House. My Son Ebenezer came over with his Steers and Mare, which joined to my own steers and Mare, he used to Harrow my Meeting House Field.

1756 May 11 (Tuesday). My Children at t’other House being in Trouble by reason of the illness of both their son and Daughter, I walked over there to see ‘em. Mr. Gardner with me. N.B. Mr. Charles Rice Splicing Rails and putting up fence p.m. Weather very Agreeable through God’s Goodness!

1756 May 12 (Wednesday). Warm Air; fine Weather for Planting—D.G. Billy, with Neighbour Barney Newtons Oxen, and Abners Cart goes with our steers to attempt a Load of Rails from Mr. Moses Twitchels. P.M. Mrs. Baker, Mrs. Rachel and Mrs. Abigail Rice visited my Wife.

1756 May 13 (Thursday). Had a Catechetical Exercise to Young Women. Delivered to them the Same as last Exercise to Young Men. It was So rainy after dinner that but 22 attended. Billy planted part of the Field by the Barn.

1756 May 14 (Friday). Finished planting by the Barn. Billy worked for Ebenezer with the steers etc. P.M. Messrs. Samuel and Phinehas Hardy Sett up Fence behind the meeting House.

1756 May 15 (Saturday). I borrowed Mr. Pratts Horse and rode to Hopkinton but Mr. Barrett was gone to Boston. I was about to ride to Southborough and went as far as Dr. Wilsons: There I found Mr. Barrett; with whom he returned to his House, But I could not perswade him, though the Sun was Some heighth, to ride to Westborough this Eve. N.B. my finding Mr. Barrett at Dr. Wilsons was the more to be remarked because if I had not I should not only have had the Difficult Journey, through unknown Roads to me, to Southborough, but when I Should have got there Should have been disappointed, Mr. Stone being gone to Harwich. Mr. Barret gave me the first Intimations of the Sudden Death of my Eldest Brothers Wife, yesterday Morning. He also acquainted me with the Death of Mrs. Prentice, wife of Thomas Esq. at Newtown. I lodged at Mr. Barretts.

1756 May 16 (Sunday). Mr. B. rode to Westborough and preached here, on Mat. 16.26 and returned at Evening. I preached at Hopkinton a.m. on Isa. 26.20.21, p.m. on Heb. 11.16, and in the Evening came home; where I received a Letter from Brother Samuel certifying of the Death of Sister Parkman Friday Morning of an Asthma. May God teach my Dear Brother Resignation and Obedience by the things which he suffers! And may we all Learn to die! To be ever ready! For her Departure was Somewhat Sudden, and about 2 o’Clock, to their great Surprize, though she had had a fit or two the Evening before; for they both went to Bed and to sleep comfortable.

1756 May 17 (Monday). Mr. Thomas Twitchel puts up Stone Wall behind the Meeting House for me. My Wife p.m. rides to Deacon Forbush’s. Am my self in much indisposition by Head-Ach.

1756 May 18 (Tuesday). Messrs. Samuel Hardy, Zebulun Rice and his Brother Charles worked here in fencing the Field behind the Meeting House and p.m. planted the Chief of it. Mr. Charles Rice Came and dropped Corn part of the afternoon. N.B. Mr. Martyn and his Wife Visit us. My Wife goes over to my Daughter in Law, in the Morning. About a quarter after 11 a.m. my son had a second Daughter born—the Glory to God alone!

1756 May 19 (Wednesday). Mr. Charles Rice came in the Morning and finished the dropping my Corn, and a.m. Billy finished the covering. I visited my son and Daughter and the New born Infant. May God be gracious to them and quicken them to all the Duty incumbent on them! But it is matter of great Grief that way is not, to this Day, made for the Dedicating these Children to God in His holy Ordinance. I visited Old Mrs. Hannah Rice, and dined there (at Mr. Seth Rice’s). Visited Eight Familys that way; and returned at Evening. Billy p.m. helps his Brother get ready for Planting. N.B. We had a swarm of Bees thus early.

1756 May 20 (Thursday). Billy goes to help his Brother plant, and is with him all Day. Mr. Phinehas Hardy brings me 44 rails (Chestnut, Spliced), for which and his Carting them I allow him 20/ old Tenor. He and Mr. Samuel Biglow dine here. P.M. marry Artemas Bruce to Mary Latteny. Master Gardner here.

1756 May 21 (Friday). My wife goes over to my sons Wife, the latter in great Extremity of Pain. P.M. I visited Mrs. Tainter (Lieutenants Wife) in her illness. N.B. Billy helped his Brother finish his Planting.

1756 May 22 (Saturday). Deacon Whipple of Ipswich Hamlet here. Deacon Jonathan Forb. paid me in Cash and Notes, Old Tenor £100.

1756 May 23 (Sunday). Read 1 K. 17. Preached on Luk. 14.26. P.M. read Mat. 19, preached on Luk. 8.18, under which used the Continuation of page 12 of Sermon on 2 Cor. 2.15.16 to page 7. After Exercises visited my Daughter in Law, who I hope is somewhat better, and the Child is Comfortable. D.G.

1756 May 24 (Monday). I undertook my Journey to Boston. Rode my Son’s Mare hoping She will carry me more agreeably than my own. Dined at Mr. Stones Wife at Southborough, he being gone to the Cape. Called at Mr. Bridge’s in Framingham, who has been much confined with Sickness of late. I tryed the New Road through Weston and went by Mr. Abraham Gale’s, where I called but he was not at home. Reached to Capt. Thomas Prentice’s to mix my Tears with his for the Loss of his late Excellent Wife: and lodged there.

1756 May 25 (Tuesday). Capt. Prentice rode with me to Boston. Put up my Horse at Mr. Lowders, the Barbers; (my Kinsman Procter being then out of Town). Dined at my Kinsman Nathaniels. P.M. Visited my Dear Brother William in his sorrows—just at Eve visited (with him) Cousen Oliver. Cant but observe the Conduct of divine Providence towards them. Lodged at Cousen Procters, who was returned home at Eve, and was in grievous Spiritual Exercises.

1756 May 26 (Wednesday). Mr. Cooper preached the Election sermon. I din’d publickly in Faneuel-Hall, with the Lieutenant Governor, Council etc. P.M. was at Dr. Sewalls with the Ministers at their Convention. Mr. Wigglesworth of Ipswich was chose Moderator. This Choice was without any Trouble; but the Choice of a Clark or Scribe was attended with much. Mr. Pemberton was thought to be chose, but upon Second Trial it appeared otherwise. Then Dr. Mayhew was nominated by Mr. Williams of Sandwich and though it was Opposed by Some, and Dr. Sewall particularly bore his Testimony against it, yet he was the Man. I was much Surprized at it, and full of Sorrow, from what I had great reason to Suspect; yet not having read his Book, I could not intelligently Oppose him for the Doctrines contained therein. After divers Visits I returned to Brother Samuels and lodged there. N.B. My Horse was put up at Procters.

1756 May 27 (Thursday). N.B. Visited my Kinsman Winter lame and confined to his Chamber. I went to the Convention. Were more amicable than Yesterday. The principal affair was a Complaint from a Number of agrieved [sic] Brethren in the 2d Church in Falmouth (or Perpuduck) against the Churchs proceedings in settling Mr. Ephraim Clark their Minister. An unanimous Vote passed to testify against such Disorders as we hear have been there. Elected Mr. Perkins of Bridgewater to preach to the Convention next after Mr. Rand. Mr. Abbot of Charlestown preached to Day, on Act. 20.21. The Contribution was smaller than usual—being but 250£ old Tenor or a little above. I dined at Mr. Pembertons, where were Messrs. Byles, Conant, Auchmuty, Carns and young Mr. Byles. P.M. at my Kinsman Olivers. Returned to the North End, and at Mr. John Brecks had some fresh Debate concerning Mr. Ephraim Clark at Perpuduck. Mrs. Breck presented me with one of his Sermons. N.B. Lodged at my Brother Parkman’s.

1756 May 28 (Friday). I Strove to the utmost to get up to Mr. Cottons at Newton to preach his Lecture but could not. Capt. Job Bradford and my Kinswoman Betty Parkman accompanyed me out of Town, and rode with me to Cambridge. N.B. I endeavoured to pay Brother Champney my Debt to him (contracted on Mollys and Lucys Account chiefly), but was disappointed by A Johannes wanting weight, which Johannes I gave Mr. Nathan Maynard (at his earnest request to change) 8 Dollars for. Rode to Watertown, to Mr. Storers and Master Nat. Harringtons. Lodged at my Brother in Law’s, Mr. Joseph Harringtons.

1756 May 29 (Saturday). Returned home. Master Thomas Rice of College my Company from Mr. Joshua Warrins, where I called and prayed with the old people under their Weakness and confinement. We dined at the widow Darlings—where was a Woman from Susquehannah, driven off by the Indians. Got home in safety; found my family Well. D.G.

1756 May 30 (Sunday). Read 1 King. 18 to v. 17. Preached on Luk. 8.18. Used the Continuation from p. 7. See the last sabbath. P.M. read Mat. 20.

1756 May 31 (Monday). Nahum, Son of Mr. James Ball, came for me to visit his Father, and I accordingly went. Found him very low and nigh to Death, yet very much in the Dark as to preparation. Dined there. Visit Mr. Martyn. Returned at Eve.

1756 June 1 (Tuesday). Visited Mrs. Betty Maynard, who lies dangerously ill.

1756 June 2 (Wednesday). Should have had some Expectation of Mr. Martyn to preach my Lecture but that I hear Mr. James Ball dyed the night before last and is to be buryed to Day. I therefore preached my self. My Text Ps. 106.4. As to Mr. Ball he was one of those 12 who were the Covenanters that began this Church. And there are but 2 of them that now survive, viz. Old Mr. Maynard, and Old Mr. Bradish. May God prepare each of us to follow, that we may depart in Peace and see His Salvation! At Eve Mr. Breck and Cousin Betty Gott, going with him to Springfield, came; and lodged here. Capt. Fay has requested me earnestly to

1756 June 3 (Thursday). be at his House at the private Meeting: and hoping that Old Mr. Fay could be got there I did the rather consent. I went on with the Repetition of Sermon on Ps. 106.4.5. N.B. Mr. Breck etc. dined and left us.

1756 June 4 (Friday). I again visited Mrs. Betty Maynard—her Case full of Danger.

1756 June 5 (Saturday). Dr. Wilson and I rode over to Mr. James Maynard to See his Daughter Betty. My Time has been exceedingly taken up all the Week in Visiting the Sick and in preaching, so that I could do but little in preparing for the Sabbath.

1756 June 6 (Sunday). Read 1 K. 18 from v. 17 and preached a.m. on Joh. 10.11. Administered the Lord’s Supper. Old Mrs. How, Mrs. Tainter and Mrs. Bowker of Simsbury dined here. P.M. I read Mat. 21 to v. 23 and in preaching finished the Repetition of Sermon on Ps. 106.4.5. After Exercises Messrs. Gardner, and his Classmate Wheeler, here.

1756 June 7 (Monday). Visited Ensign Jeduthun Fay’s Wife confined by Rheumatism. Was at Mr. Grouts. Am sollicitous to get a Pasture for my Young Cattle, they being now very troublesome. P.M. my wife rode to Lt. Tainters. My Brother in Law, Harrington, here. I hear that Betty Maynard dyed Yesterday about 2 p.m. Mr. Maynard (when I was absent) came to desire me to be with them at the Funeral of his Daughter.

1756 June 8 (Tuesday). Billy finishes hoing the Island Field. I visited old Mr. Bradish and Mr. Ebenezer Forbush who has the Rheumatism. We expected my Wife’s Kinswomen from Marlborough, they having sent us word that they would visit us to Day; but they did not come. Old Mrs. Kelly dined with us. P.M. attended the Funeral of Mrs. Betty Maynard. My sons Wife So weak etc. we have not only Sent Sarah over to them but my Wife herself has gone over and changed Children: left Sophy, and brought over their Infant, and thus we worry through the Night.

1756 June 9 (Wednesday). Fine Weather. Thomas helps in ploughing and hoing the Field by the Barn. My Sons Wife still afflicted. At Eve Ebenezer brings over Sophy; and yet leaves his little Molly here; so that my Wife has both of them to keep and Suckle over Night. We fear a tedious Task.

1756 June 10 (Thursday). My Wife had Somewhat better night with the two Children than She expected. Thomas and Billy finish the Field by the Barn before Dinner. P.M. I preached to the Young Men, from Ps. 95.7, last Clause. At night little Betty (my Grand Child) having fallen out of the Wheelbarrow (at t’other House) received a wound over her right Eye. They sent Alexander over for me, and I went; but returned and lodged at Home.

1756 June 11 (Friday). Thomas goes over to hoe for Ebenezer (being backward in his Weeding). My wife also goes over to see Betty and carrys over Molly. Mr. Daniel Warrin here and pays me the remainder of his Rate. This I am glad, at last, to see an End of.

1756 June 12 (Saturday). Billy ploughs in the New Field. Lt. Tainter kills a Calf for me. Mr. Aaron Nurse makes a Bee Hive to be ready against the Bees swarming again. He dines here.

1756 June 13 (Sunday). Read 1 King 19. Preached on Eccl. 3.17. Read p.m. Mat. 21 from v. 23. N.B. Mr. Gardner dined here, as did Mr. John Nicols of Upton, and Mrs. Biglow of Brookline. We hear that Mrs. Martha Gott, of Marlborough, dyed somewhat Suddenly on the 12th.

1756 June 14 (Monday). A Number of Young Men (of the New Society) came and hoed my Corn at the New Field behind the Meeting House. They were Samuel Hardy junior, Barny Newton, Daniel Forb. junior, Jonathan How, Abner Whipple, Joseph Harrington, and Levi Warrin for his Brother Abner. My Wife went over to See them at t’other House, and brings over little Molly again and Suckles her (together with Sophy) here.

1756 June 15 (Tuesday). I rode to Ministers Meeting at Mr. Morse’s. Thought my Self too late and therefore did not go by Mr. Martyns, but rode alone as far as Capt. Biglows—from thence had Mr. Ebenezer Nurse’s Company; and notwithstanding my Fears of lateness, was the first that arriv’d there. There was no Concio by reason of Mr. Stone’s (the appointed Concr.’s) illness and Indisposition, though he was present. Sir Crawford offered himself to be examined. See the Association minutes.

1756 June 16 (Wednesday). Sir Crawford brought us a Letter from Mr. Maccarty, and one that Mr. Maccarty had sent to Coll. Chandler; on which also that Coll. had written his own Recommendation of him to the Gentlemen who were empowered to put in Chaplains in the Army. In brief, a Certificat was drawn, and I suppose signed, according to Vote, by the Moderator. I hastened away after Lecture and came to Ensign Harringtons who had Strongly insisted upon my being there to Day. It being training Day, and he treats the Company. I understand also that it is training Day over all the Province, and all men shew Arms.

At Eve I was called to go up to Esq. Bakers, there being an Indian woman there, one Peggy Read from Woodstock, who was grievously exercised with Fitts. She was in a Fitt while I was there, and divers of the Select Men. When I had prayed etc., I returned home.

1756 June 17 (Thursday). I visited the poor Indian Woman again. Dined at the Squire’s. N.B. Bees Swarmed; and flew off, notwithstanding my Hopes and Desires.

1756 June 18 (Friday). Ebenezers Wife Still weak—he in much trouble for a Maid.

1756 June 19 (Saturday). Little Molly here with her Grandmother, who has a sore Hand with her.

1756 June 20 (Sunday). Read 1 K. 20, to v. 21. Gave a long Exposition. Preached on Prov. 3.17. P.M. omitted the Reading. And by Reason of the work of last Week, and what I prepared of the forenoon Exposition I was obliged to repeat an old Sermon with some Alterations and Additions, viz. on Eccl. 8.13. Ebenezer carryed his Child home.

1756 June 21 (Monday). I visited Peggy Read again, whose Fits have not left her. Mr. Bliss and Deacon Brown of Concord here in their way from Grafton, home.

1756 June 22 (Tuesday). Rainy Day. Was called Suddenly to Deacon Bonds to see his daughter Eliz. (a Child in her 5th Year) very ill of Canker, Quinzy and Fever. I dined there. Prayed twice. She Expired about 2 p.m. Mr. Hutchinson here. He was detained by the Rain.

1756 June 23 (Wednesday). I went again to see Peggy Read. My Wife went to t’other House and to Mr. Martyns; but returned at Eve. Billy hoes in the Island Field a 2d time.

1756 June 24 (Thursday). Brother Hicks and his son Joshua, the latter returned from the Eastward from Bay Vert here. I grew not well—but attended the Funeral of Eliza Bond. My Daughter in Law ventured over here, and I carryed her to her Brother Bonds. I was ill whilst there and performed the service with much Difficulty. Had an ill Night. Having got Cold, was aguish, my stomach acked and my Bones were in Pain. Ebenezer carryed his Mother to the House of Mourning. Billy is at the 2d hoing of the Island Field.

1756 June 25 (Friday). Had a bad night, and am much indisposed to Day—much pain in my stomach etc.: was wholly confined—but it is of the Lords Mercy I am not consumed. Peggy Read said to be dying—sends for me, but I am so ill I can’t go. It proves also an exceeding rainy time. At night I was seized by a very violent Ague which held me shaking about half an hour—which was followed with Fever and held me I Suppose all Night. Sent for Dr. Chase and he Came. It is altogether uncertain what the Sovereign of my Life is now about to do with me. May I be prepared for His holy will! The Indications are now strong.

1756 June 26 (Saturday). Dr. Chase again. He administers (as far as I discern) judiciously. Peggy Read is yet living. I perswade Dr. Chase to go and See her. My Sons Ebenezer and Thomas go to Brookfield, p.m. I am Grieved at their setting out so late. Towards Night Brother Harrington of Watertown, came. He goes to Deacon Bonds to lodge. N.B. having agreed to change with Mr. Martyn tomorrow, was obliged to Send over Billy to acquaint him of my Sickness. When he returns he informs me that they also are in much Affliction, Mrs. Molly being sick and o’Bed, and they had sent for Dr. Morse. A bright Day. I took a Cathartick; an infusion of Senna, Liquorish etc.

1756 June 27 (Sunday). I hope I am (through the Goodness of God) a little better. But it is a Melancholly Day on Account of God’s Sanctuary which is very desolte. Yet a few do assemble So as to carry on Exercises both a. and p.m. I Sent ‘em good Mr. Willison on the Sabbath. Billy walks over (as does Master Gardner) to Mr. Martyns Meeting. He dines at Mr. Martyns also. Mrs. Molly Somewhat better, but her Mother is now ill. Dr. Chase came diligently to See me, both Morning and Evening. The Indian woman yet alive. Brother Harrington goes from Deacon Bonds to t’other House and lodges there.

1756 June 28 (Monday). Through the great Goodness of God I gather strength; but I can’t freely read or write yet. It affects my Eyes and disorders me at my Vitals to attempt much of either. P.M. to my great Joy, my dear Kinsman Mr. Procter of Boston and his Spouse, came on purpose to make us a visit. She was never here before. They tarry with us. I send their Horse to Mr. Hezekiah Pratts to be kept. It proves very refreshing to me especially at this time of my illness. Mr. Jacob Amsden made me a seasonable visit (particularly considering what he brought). It is the glorious God who over rules every thing in His holy Providence.

1756 June 29 (Tuesday). I grow better, I hope every Day. Chearfullness with my Relatives, who are here, doubtless promotes it. The Doctor here once more. He brings me Bitters. Mr. Whipple made me a Visit. The Indian Woman (tis said) recovers—so that she walks about. Mr. John Morris a wounded, maimed man, here, begging Charity. Says he is of Uxbridge. Mr. Jotham Death also here; he had left a Letter begging a Contribution for him, he having been sorrowfully burnt out. My Kinsfolks here with us. My sons return from Brookfield.

1756 June 30 (Wednesday). I felt so much better that I venture to ride with my Kinswoman to my sons. Her Husband walked over. We dine there. P.M. my Wife over there also, but all return hither at Eve. N.B. a little son of Mr. Nathan Maynard, Nehemiah, this morning at play with his little Brother Nathan, has two middle fingers of his Right Hand cutt off, and the forefinger cutt almost off also—doubting whether it can be saved. A very sorrowfull Providence! May the Lord sanctify it to them and may his Name be praised and magnifyed for His protecting, guarding and preserving my little sons who are continually extremely Exposed! I earnestly beg the Continuance thereof! I hear that Peg Read has walked off from Esq. Bakers. I doubt not o’ their great Joy.

1756 July 1 (Thursday). My Kins folks had designed to have left us to Day—but I was not so well as yesterday. (It was windy, and probably I took some Cold. I was feverish, relaxed—appetite depraved.) They would not therefore Spend their Time in visiting any others, nor leave me, since it was evidently very comforting and refreshing to have them here. Only p.m. my wife and Mrs. Procter rode to Mr. Grouts and got me some Metheglin. O that I were indeed in a readiness for the Will of God! N.B. Mr. Procter prayed in my Family in the morning.

1756 July 2 (Friday). It was Somewhat wet at the first of the morning, and in Some Measure discouraged my Kins folks from undertaking their Journey home: but afterwards the Sun broke out and they took leave. John Forbush, Sent by his Father, hoed with Billy in the New Field. N.B. Mr. Isaac Mitchel of Peterborough (above Townshend) here and dined with us. By him I wrote a Letter to Mr. William Jones of Lunenbourg—to desire him to look up the 62 Acre Lot which I had of Lull, promising that I would see him satisfyed. As to my own Condition, I am to day in a feverish, relaxed, and weak state, but am desirous to place my Hope and Trust in the Lord my God. But above all, may God of his infinite mercy and Goodness, grant me inward reviving; and strength in my soul! May the pious Example of Mr. Procter quicken me, in particular his Strictness and Steddiness in the Exercises of Devotion—his Care to avoid sin, and keep all Gods holy Commandments.

1756 July 3 (Saturday). I feel but poorly Still. Am capable of but very little of either reading or writing. Mr. Joseph Manning, I hear, came to t’other House last night. P.M. he came here. He lodges here. Billy is obliged to hoe my New field very much alone.

1756 July 4 (Sunday). Though I am low, feverish and weak, yet I was not without hope of going into the House of the Lord but it proved so rainy I could not. Mr. Manning preached for me. A.M. on Joh. 6.27. P.M. on Eccl. 3.2, those words “a Time to die.” He continues with us to night.

1756 July 5 (Monday). But a.m. Mr. Manning left us to go to Uxbridge. Mr. Moses Twitchel and Daniel Miller come to clear a piece of my Land on Mr. Nurses Road. I hope I am a little more revived. Yet dare not meddle much with Books. N.B. My Cousen Trask of Sutton Sends me word of his sorrowful Bereavement, that last Thursday his dear Wife dyed. May God Himself comfort him with those Consolations which are not small! Billy hoes in the New Field alone. Sarah for [this great?] while at t’other House, helping her sister Eliza, who remains weak and poor.

1756 July 6 (Tuesday). Mr. Twitchell and Miller clearing again. Dr. Crosby here. Rev. Fish visits me, p.m. I feel but weak and low yet: especially my appetite much depraved; and am Soon overcome with a little attention. However p.m. I walked over to Neighbour Nurse’s, and returned (Blessed be God) in Safety. Twitchell and Miller lodge here.

1756 July 7 (Wednesday). This Day we had a Variety of Workmen. Twitchell and Miller at their Clearing. Neighbour John Rogers all Day mowing at the Island, and Artimas Bruce half the Day with him. Mr. Jonathan Bellows and his son Reuben, half-hilling in my New field. Eliza and her Child here, and her Neece Mrs. Warrin here with her. Mr. Uriah Brigham here near Night, and informs that Dr. Gott has arrived at Marlborough from the Camp, and that Young Master Robert Breck of Springfield, is gone to Boston.

1756 July 8 (Thursday). Mr. John Rogers worked for me a.m. mowing the West Pasture and the little Pasture etc. P.M. Billy and he raked and carted up a Jagg from the Island. I was in a poor, weak state, and especially my Stomach much depraved. At Night Thunder Storm, hard Thunder and sharp Lightning and there were heavy Showers of rain; through most of the Night it held a remarkable Season. At Eve I began to drink a Steep of Barbery Bark, and it made me very Sick and faint.

1756 July 9 (Friday). A bright, chearfull and pleasant morning after the storm, but I am my Self, I fear, lower, and more distressed; am very sick, abhor every Edible, but endeavour to keep up my Spirits and walk about. Mr. Moses Twitchell comes to clearing again. Mr. Abijah Gale here and reckons. Billy mows a little. I am exceeding poor and Miserable at Evening. I had sent for Dr. Chase in the Day. He came at Night, and being perswaded by my grievous Nausea, and frequent reaching to vomit, that I have the Jaundice, I have Sent Thomas to Mrs. Kimbal of Hopkinton for her famous Remedy. But I principally beg Grace to [Seak?] to, and depend on the Glorious God the Almighty sovereign of my Life and all my Changes.

1756 July 10 (Saturday). Thomas did not come early, yet I began Mrs. Kimbals Medicine, looking to God for His Blessing. P.M. came Mr. Forb. to my great Joy, because of tomorrow. I felt somewhat better at noon. Sat at Table and eat somewhat. It was also with relish. D.G.

1756 July 11 (Sunday). Mr. Forb. a. and p.m. on Eph. 3.6 but I kept House. Could not set at Table at noon. Deacon Forb. and wife, Master Gardner, old Mrs. Byles besides my Children of t’other House, dined here. N.B. a pain has to day seized my Breast, oppressive and hinders free Breathing. Am afraid what this will end in. But—to God be all submitted!

1756 July 12 (Monday). Mr. Forb. left us to go to Commencement. Sent the History of Mary Queen of Scotts to Sir Rice at Cambridge. Mr. Wellman also here, on his Journey. This was a dark Morning with me on account of the Increase of the Oppresing pain in my Breast, and the Increase also of my Fever: My abhorrence of Food, and my Weakness add to my Distress. But may God enable me to resign my self wholly to him! I sent for Dr. Chase, who came—gives me [Confactio Alkermes?], etc. Very hot weather. Thomas and Billy hoeing in the New Field and finished it. Deacon Jonathan Forb. here p.m. I was so very low that (upon his having mentioned his going to Hopkinton upon his Busness) I prayed him to go to Dr. Willson for me: which he resolved to do.

1756 July 13 (Tuesday). Dr. Wilson came. He judges a vomit (of Panacea Antimony) best—and perswades me to take it. He stays to See the Operation. N.B. I went down below to dinner and sat at Table (part of the Time). Took my vomit about 4 p.m. It worked Slowly, but according to Expectation, both up and down. And I took an Anodyne before I went to sleep, committing all to God!

1756 July 14 (Wednesday). In the morning was faint and weak indeed! Neighbour Zebulun Rice (who was here at the time of the working of my physic) came kindly to see me this morning. Dr. Chase came, and Seems somewhat offended that I had not told him of my Sending for Dr. Wilson. I gave him my Reasons. He then chearfully administered of his Druggs. The Widow Biglow came to work here, making stays for Sarah and Suse. Mr. Barrett came to see me and dined here. P.M. Mr. Martyn and his Wife also. Mr. Barrett prayed. I gave Mrs. Martyn to understand that I wanted some express manifestation of her Husbands reconciliation to me since those terrible Letters etc.

In the Night Mr. Phinehas Hardy brought up for me a Special supply of Wine, Figgs, Raisins etc.

1756 July 15 (Thursday). I had but a faint Night notwithstanding—much pained in my Knees, as well as Back. Fear I am falling into Rheumatism. Am faint to Day, appetite depraved. Am Confined to the Chamber. Mr. Noah Rice and his son Bacon here from Commencement. Likewise Mr. Hall. Mr. Wellman the last dined here; and brought me Theses and Questiones. Capt. Baldwin dined here also. He is going to Brookfield. Thomas and Billy begin to hill the Corn at the Island, and finish it. At night Came Mr. Robert Breck of New Haven College and his sister, Mrs. Lois, with Rev. Mr. Josiah Whitney of Pomfrat, from Boston in their way to Springfield and lodged here. Dr. Chase to see me a.m.

1756 July 16 (Friday). In the morning, though poor and weak and somewhat Rheumatic in my Knees, I went down below to Breakfast and prayer with the Company and Family. Dr. Chase just stept in, judges my Fever abated in some Measure, and yet I am many ways grievously Exercised; my right Knee, my right Eye—I find it necessary to put on a Blister at Night, that if it may please God I may have Ease from my Rheumatick Pains. Coll. Williams of Marlborough came in at Eve. Deacon Bond also visited me; likewise Lt. Thomas Forbs. wife. I am humbly waiting the will of God especially His gracious manifestations for the Refreshment of my inner Man. Little Sophy ill also.

1756 July 17 (Saturday). My Blister was well drawn, but the Effects are, apparently, but Small on the Side of Success, as yet. The Pain in my right Knee is very afflicting. A favour that little Sophy is playfull again. Lt. Tainter brings a Load of Wood, and kills a Calf for us. Our Orchard field was Sowed yesterday when My sons began to plough and Hill the Indian Corn there, and to day partly work there (Thomas but a Spell, a.m.) and secure part of the Hay in [of?] the Home Lot. N.B. I went down to dinner with my Family, but it was with great Difficulty, my stomach being much against the Food, which yet was very good and entertaining to all who were in any Health. O may I see, and be conformed to the Hand of God upon Me! P.M. to my great Joy came my Brother Samuel Parkman from Boston to see me, and Mr. Forb. with him. Towards Eve Mr. Barrett came, and Mr. Forb. is to go to Hopkinton. Mr. Barrett and my Brother lodge here.

1756 July 18 (Sunday). Mr. Barrett preached here, a.m. on Ps. 73.26, last Clause. P.M. on Ps. 17.14, those words, “who have their Portion in this Life.” I sat with them at Dinner but could not go to Meeting. Dr. Chase here; leaves me some Lavender only; I having many sorts of Drops and Drugs already. Rheumatism abates so little that I put on another Blister on (the same) Left Arm. My Eyes are still Strangely affected—the Balls and up above them in Pain. N.B. Mr. Barrett read the Proclamation for a Fast and Mr. Jotham Death’s Letter, desiring Contribution. Mr. Barret left us at Eve. N.B. Mr. Williams kept his Horse.

1756 July 19 (Monday). Notwithstanding my Blisters, my Rheumatism increases—Seizes the thick part of my right Thigh. I am also more feverish—can’t bear to sit at Dinner, yet try, and worry it out. God be merciful to me a Miserable sinner, under His holy Frowns! Son Forb. returns from Hopkinton or his Fathers, and sets out for Brookfield. Mr. Moses Twitchel mows at Newton Meadow. Billy mows at the Island. Thomas a while. P.M. My Brother Samuel left us and went to Hopkinton. P.M. Mr. Asaph Rice visits me.

1756 July 20 (Tuesday). Through the Divine Goodness I had a more comfortable Day—freer of Pains, and from the Nauseating Food. I eat better, but did not venture down to dinner with the Family. Mr. John Frost, employed by Mr. Moses Twitchell, works for me in the Newton Meadow. Dr. Chase steps in. P.M. Esq. Baker came to See me, as did Mr. Smith of Marlborough, who prayed with me. Mr. Francis Whipple and Neighbour Eliezer Rice came likewise. The last agrees to Serve me in Carting my Ministerial Meadow Hay. I feel better this p.m. than I have done a good while. I would heartily praise God for it!

1756 July 21 (Wednesday). Had not so comfortable Night—a.m. less lively, and more feverish than yesterday. Such is the will of God that I have my ups and downs. Yet as to my Circumstances many Things are chearful. Mr. Twitchell works for me in taking Care of the Hay. Mr. Barachias Morse and Francis Pierce mow in the Ministerial Meadow, but especially fourteen Hands, great and small, came and hilled my New Field of Corn behind the Meeting House. They were Lt. Tainter, and his son Benjamin (with their lad Enoch Biglow), Ensign Harrington, Messrs. Solomon Woods, Zebulun Rice, Jonathan Grout, Amariah Thurston, Joseph Pratt, James Bowman junior, Isaac Miller, Eli Whitney, Elisha Forbush, John Forbush, Joseph Bond. I would take a grateful Notice of this Favour in Providence. Nigh Evening came Mr. William Crawford. This was to my great Ease and Comfort. Sent his Horse to Neighbour Barny Newtons, to be kept. Two Load of Hay home from Newton Meadow. My Wife very much exercised with pains, daily. The Doctor steped in to Day also. I marryed Samuel junior to Abigail Forbush. Dr. Wilson visited me and with him Deacon Burnap.

1756 July 22 (Thursday). Publick Fast on Account of our undertaking against Crown Point. Mr. Crawford preached a.m. on Hos. 6.6. I went to Meeting—D.G. And prayed after sermon. P.M. I prayed before sermon. Mr. Crawford preached on Deuteronomy 23.9. I hope I got no Cold, nor received any Harm. The Lord hear and accept the Addresses; pardoning our many Offences; and may the word delivered have a proper Effect!

1756 July 23 (Friday). Messrs. Barachias Rice and Martyn Pratt came to work in Ministerial Meadow. Thomas and Billy go to raking in Newton Meadow. Mr. Crawford returned home. I feel but poorly still—can’t read or write any Time together but hope I grow stronger in the Main. D.G. Mrs. Bulah Bent of Marlborough came to see us and dined here. She rode with me in my Chair (mended by Neighbour Zebulun Rice) to the Funeral of Mr. Richard Barns’s Child, which I attended, though with much Difficulty. Mrs. Bulah tells me I may improve her Meadow and welcome. When I returned home, found Mr. Stone and his Wife here. This was a refreshing Visit. He prayed with me before he left me. Thomas and Billy brought home a Jagg of Hay from Newton Meadow with Neighbour Abner Newtons Team. Neighbour Morse lodges here.

1756 July 24 (Saturday). Neighbour Morse and Neighbour Martyn Pratt work in Ministerial Meadow till about 5 p.m. Neighbour Eliezer Rice carts home 3 Load from thence. Thomas and Billy work at the Meadow also, but a shower beat them all off Sun two hours high.

1756 July 25 (Sunday). I felt not so well as Some Days I have. But considering the doleful state of the Flock when there is no Minister, I ventured out both a. and p.m. Repeated a.m. sermon 1 on Jer. 31.18. P.M. repeated sermon 1 on Mat. 12.20. Having taken all the ways to favor and strengthen my self that I could, I was not overmuch worried or Spent with the services. But I cant say I took no Cold, for at night I was Seized again with Rheumatic Pains, chiefly my right Arm and right Knee. But the Will of the Lord be done! May his Word which we have heard savingly profit us! And May these Providences so afflictive and trying, prove Spiritually advantagious, through the divine Concurrence!

1756 July 26 (Monday). Have had a sad Night, being exercised with strong Pain, especially in my right Knee. Put on a Blister this Morning—but may I, above all, look to God for Relief! For I am in His Hands, to smite or heal. Thomas and Billy mowed in Ministerial Meadow, and p.m. Capt. Wood of Hopkinton and His Wife, made me a kind Visit.

1756 July 27 (Tuesday). Am Somewhat relieved in my Knee, but am grievously Seized in my Right Shoulder, and my Right Hand—it swells and is very useless. Another Blister improved. A very dark time! But such is the holy and sovereign Will of God!

1756 July 28 (Wednesday). Had a very distressing Night. The Blister has little apparent Effect. Dr. Chase to see Me. He sends me Balsam Polychris. Send to Mr. Asaph Rice per Ensign Harrington. Begin to be seized in my Left Knee. But it is the Lord! P.M. Moses Twitchel and Noah Hardy mow in Newton Meadow.

1756 July 29 (Thursday). Had a yet more distressing night Still, in profuse sweating, and faintness—had little sleep—so that I am brought low. Dr. Chase here; he leaves me a portion of Rhubarb which I am in doubt about taking. My Wife still very lame. Billy is poisoned and can do no Work. Mr. Moses Twitchell and Joseph Pratt Securing the Hay at my Meadow. A little after noon I took the Rheubarb, and it worked about 3 times—hope it had a good Effect. P.M. Neighbour Elizer Rice and my son Ebenezer brought each of them a Load of Hay from Ministerial Meadow, which finishes the Haying there for this year, being 6 Load. Mr. Twitchel brought up one Load from Newton Meadow, and stacked a little more than a Load in the Meadow. Toward Night Dr. Wilson called in to see me. It was most seasonable and agreeable, for I had tryed to send for him this very Day. He advises to take Elixir Camphoratum, 20 or 25 Drops, Early Morn, and 11 a.m. N.B. Esq. Baker brought the Doctor for his son Joseph; So that riding this way he called in. Mr. Twitchell and Jos. Pratt lodge here.

1756 July 30 (Friday). Very heavy Rains—especially a.m. I had not such Colliquative Sweat last Night, as the Nights before, but perhaps owing to thinning the Bed-Cloths: and am apprehensive my Rheumatism is still making progress into other Joints. Each Heel is Somewhat affected as well as my left Knee—at night my right Foot most. Brother Forb. came to bring me a Remedy for my Rheumatism, viz. Piony-Oak to be steeped in West India Rum. 4 Spoonful per Day. P.M. his Son Daniel and several Others visit me. They enquire about the Nature of Moral Assurance. Probably they have reference to Mr. Forb. late sermon which gave some of them Disgust. N.B. Mr. Asaph Rice sends me word that he can’t come the Next sabbath but will endeavour to the Sabbath after.

1756 July 31 (Saturday). Great Rains this Morning also, and hold to p.m. My right foot full of pain. Right Shoulder, and right Hand, remain lame, weak and pained. My left Knee, which was full of pain yesterday easier to Day. D.G. I am able, with much striving, and distressing Pain to rise from the Bed, and walk a little—this I have almost every Day. I am so weak I dare not draw another Blister. I begin to take of the Elixir Camphoratum. Capt. Maynard made me a kind Visit. Mrs. Biglow, stay-Maker, having finished her Work and received her Pay, p.m., returned home. The Pain of my Foot and of my right Hand is So increased that we are forced to venture another Blister. This is the 6th Since my illness began.

1756 August 1 (Sunday). I am, through divine Mercy, Somewhat easier, and can, though with Pain and difficulty, walk about the room. There was a Small Assembly, but no body to preach. Sent ‘em Judge Hale’s Great Audit, which they read a. and p.m. The Doctor Called in here both a. and p.m. May God have Compassion on us, and shew us His Goodness in His own Time! May He be as a little Sanctuary to us who are at home, as well as His Goings be Seen in His Temple! N.B. Not a few are detained at Home with me: My Wife who is full of Pains and Smart in her Feet; Billy, who is poisoned; and Sarah who is greatly indisposed to Day: These, besides divers little ones. N.B. I begin to anoint pained spots and Joints with Marshmallows.

1756 August 2 (Monday). Am Seized in my left Knee and especially my left Foot. This gives a great Addition to my sorrow. The Lord Support me under this grievous Evil! And fitt me for what I have yet to undergo! My right foot is somewhat easier. D.G. But my Right Hand is worse—so that I write any Thing with great Difficulty.

Seth Woods, from Jonas Bradish, reaps in my Rye Field. P.M. Capt. Benjamin Wood, of Hopkinton Sent his son with a present of Rum, Veal, etc. Mrs. Rolf, and Mrs. Lucy Forb. visit: the latter Shaved me.

1756 August 3 (Tuesday). My Right Hand still swelled and pained, my left Knee and Foot are also so bad that I can very Scarcely take one step; till near Night—when I walked a little. No Doctor, though he (Dr. Chase) said he’d come yesterday. I’m much the same. My Rheumatism is uncorrected to this Day: but I wait the divine Will! Messrs. Martyn and Stone here, going to Uxbridge on their Woodstock Affair. Jonas Bradish comes p.m. with a Team and gets in my Rye which Seth Woods and my sons had reaped—Mr. Rolf with him. N.B. Old Mrs. Whipple and Mr. Jos. Greens Wife, and Mrs. Harrington here the Afternoon.

1756 August 4 (Wednesday). Am still in much the Same Condition (except that my Shoulder is easier). My Hand etc. No Doctor comes. At Evening comes Lt. Tainter from Boston with various Supplys for me. And N.B. Lieutenant gave Mr. Jos. Stratton of Waltham a Note from me for 50£ of Money, Old Tenor which he promises to deliver for me, next Week to Mrs. Stoddard at Boston.

At Night Messrs. Martyn and Stone return home from Uxbridge.

1756 August 5 (Thursday). I am Still in the same grievous State of Pain and Weakness. The Medicine recommended from Rev. Mr. Fishs, viz. Piony Oake Steeped in West India Rum, I begin to take to day—the Dose 1 spoonful 4 times a day. My Wife also takes it. Mr. Martyn and his Brother Monis visit me; as does Mr. Smith of Marlborough and dine with us. The 2 former p.m. visit their Uncle Bradish. Mr. Smith prayed with me. My Left Hip begins to be pained.

1756 August 6 (Friday). My Left Hip grows worse. I had a bad night and morning. P.M. Mr. Putnam of Pomfret here. Sharp Thunder and Lightning at Night.

1756 August 7 (Saturday). I rise in a poor, low, pained state. My left Hip Bone and the great Bones on which I sit, are full of Pain. We go on with the Piony-Oak—waiting for Gods Blessing! A.M. Mr. Whitney shaves me, and though I am in danger of taking Cold, yet I hope it is to my Comfort. At Eve it rains. N.B. Billy desired to work at Mr. Nurse’s, that Nathan Kenny may help him, and accordingly goes there till the Rain, and then returns.

1756 August 8 (Sunday). I had reason to hope for help from Mr. Asaph Rice who I hope has been examined and approbated. Or that if he did not come personally, Mr. Fish would come in Stead: but neither of them came and we were again sorrowfully destitute. A.M. I Sent them Mr. Willison of Dundee, on the Sabbath from page 114. P.M. I sent Mr. Trails Sermon on Heb. 10.23. This was at the Request of Lt. Tainter and a Number with him. N.B. the former brought the Book. Old Deacon Forb. and Master Gardner dined here. There was a considerable Assembly in the after, as well as forenoon. May God accept their Offerings! And in His Pity remember me! I enjoyed a Measure of Comfort till my Left Hand, which had been preserved to me hitherto, began to be seized. Towards Eve, my Wrist swelling and burning, I anointed with Marsh Mallows Ointment but it Soon grew So very bad that I was forced to apply another Blister.

1756 August 9 (Monday). Last Night was the most restless, distressing and Sleepless, of any I have had yet. May God Sanctify this time especially to me! But in the Morning I was much easier. D.G. My Blister drew and run at an Extraordinary rate; and I had (through the Goodness of God) a comfortable Day in General. P.M. Deacon Forbush and his Wife; Rev. Cushing, Mrs. Molly Martyn and Mrs. Molly Holy Oake, Mr. Nurse and his Wife besides Several Others, came to see Me. Nathan Kenny helped Billy thrash Rye.

1756 August 10 (Tuesday). I had a Somewhat easy and agreeable Night; but yet the Morning was gloomy—my Spirits low; my stomach with Burden and Burning. My Right Ankle outside Bone is Sore and Pained. In the Afternoon I was more easy and lively. A.M. Messrs. Whipple and Samuel Fay junior here going to Boston. I committ the New Chrystalling my Watch to the Care of Mr. Whipple, and to Mr. Fay to bring it up. Mr. McAllister and his Wife made me a Visit and dined with us. A very Christian and kind Visit!

1756 August 11 (Wednesday). In the main a considerable comfortable Day—less pains. Walk in the yard, and as far as the Gate. Read more to day than any for a great While. Billy reaps Oats. John goes to School.

1756 August 12 (Thursday). Mr. Samuell Fay junior returns from Boston—brings me some more West India Rum to steep Piony Oake in; for I Still resolve to proceed, by the will of God to take it further, though it is as yet a matter of Doubt whether it has been of expected service to me or not. I have not so much of Pain in my Limbs to day, as weakness, and general Debility. Yet I find my Heart too apt to cool, and turn to Earthly Things.

1756 August 13 (Friday). I walk a little further abroad to day. Dr. Chase here—tells me I am welcome to all he has done for me. Sarah and Suse undertake to go to Mr. Martyn’s: they return at Eve Well. They tell me Natty Martyn, tis feared, grows bad.

1756 August 14 (Saturday). It was too heavy Weather for me to go out: and I am somewhat worse by my Rheumatism but especially by a sore Throat. Mr. Daniel Forb. dined with us. N.B. He undertakes my Kitchin Hearth—to get the Stones, bring and lay ‘em. P.M. came Mr. Fish of Upton instead of Mr. Asaph Rice, who is approbated to preach and is to preach for him tomorrow. My sore Throat increases much at Night.

1756 August 15 (Sunday). Mr. Fish preached on Rom. 8.8 a. and p.m. Mr. Gardner and Dr. Crosby dined here. Mr. Fish left us after Evening Service. My sore Throat continues.

1756 August 16 (Monday). Thomas goes over to help Ebenezer. N.B. he was there all last Week. I Send Billy there also. Brother Hicks going down again upon his Collins Affair. Old Major Keyes of Shrewsbury comes to see me, and dines with us. It is both entertaining and usefull to hear the Accounts of the Antient People who knew and heard the first Settlers, many of them and Saw their Circumspection and Strictness. May We be followers of them who through Faith and Patience do inherit the Promises! My Rheumatism is not now so troublesome as my sore Throat, and the general Weakness of my Limbs. Breck and John go to School to Mr. Gardner as far as Mr. Jos. Green’s.

1756 August 17 (Tuesday). I have taken Sweet Oil and Honey, and it has some what relieved my Throat. I ventured to ride out in the Chair, my Wife with me, as far as Lt. Forb. and p.m. again we took a ride for the Sake of riding—called at Mr. Nurse’s—and went to the Island, and so home—hope it will prove useful.

1756 August 18 (Wednesday). Had not a very good Night, yet was it followed with a pritty good Day, being more easy in my Limbs, freer in my Throat, and lively in my Spirits. Was able, through divine Goodness to do Somewhat in Sermonizing. Mr. Rolf here, and has my Mare to go to Worcester, to return to Night. N.B. Thomas came home from his Brothers this Morning but Billy remains there still.

1756 August 19 (Thursday). Very hot: had but an indifferent night. Pains in my Right Hand and in some other Limbs, still; but I hope growing better. No Mr. Rolf; yet we want to send to Mill; I understand he is gone to t’other House. Jonathan Bond junior here. Mr. Zebulun Rice dined with us.

1756 August 20 (Friday). Dr. Crosby came here with Mrs. Upham, Wife of Dr. Upham of Brookfield. Mr. Isaac Baldwin (Father of Capt. Jeduthun) came to see us and to ask our Approbation of his son Jeduthuns proceedings with our Daughter Lucy—and he accordingly addressed us both on that Occasion. I was not So well to day as Yesterday, my Limbs being much pained yet.

1756 August 21 (Saturday). Baldwin came in the Morning from Coll. Williams. He breaks fast with us. And Sets out for Brookfield. P.M. came Mr. Asaph Rice—and he lodged here. My Pains and Weakness in my Limbs continue much the Same.

1756 August 22 (Sunday). Mr. Asaph Rice preached all Day, on Ps. 41.4. I went to meeting both parts of the Day, and prayed after p.m. sermon. Thanks be to God! Master Gardner dined with us. But O that we might be Sensible how wounded and diseased our Souls are, and might repair to God in Christ for the great Mercy of Healing which our souls need! Mr. Rice lodged here.

1756 August 23 (Monday). Mr. Rice left us. Mr. Hezekiah Pratt gives me a Note of 12£ Old Tenor which will be payable Dec. 25 Next; this he Offers me for the remains of my Old Cyder Mill. P.M. My Wife and I rode out, and visited at several Houses—viz. Deacon Forb., Deacon Bonds, Mr. Jonah Warrins. Billy goes again to Ebenezers to work for him.

1756 August 24 (Tuesday). Mr. Stone came here on purpose to endeavour to get me with him to Ministers Meeting. I accordingly went with him. The Meeting was at Mr. Cushings; and I arrived there in a Measure of Comfort, except my Right Hand, Shoulder and Ankles, which had Still Pain in them. Through divine favour I was able to attend the Concio (it was Mr. Stone’s on Eph. 4.4) and the Conversation etc. but retired to Bed early—lodged at Mr. Cushings.

1756 August 25 (Wednesday). I rose early. My Feet and Ankles weak and lame. I went to the Public Lecture and heard Mr. Smith, who preached on Act. 2.42, a very seasonable, useful Sermon. May God bless it to both Ministers and People. P.M. I rode with Messrs. Stone, Smith and Seccomb to Mr. Martyns. N.B. Mr. Martyn has carryed down his Son Natty, to Marlborough to Dr. Dexter’s, who gives great Encouragement concerning the Sore, that he Shall effect the Cure of it. I returned home in safety. D.G. N.B. Ebenezer got in the last of my Oates and finished his own Haying.

1756 August 26 (Thursday). Am Sorry that one of my Swine, while I was gone, did Mischief in my Neighbour Beeton’s Field. I viewed his Fence; and found that by measure the Rails, between which the Hog got in, were 14 Inches apart. P.M. Daniel Miller came here under Grievance, for my Talk about him representing him as ridiculous if not also Scandalous—Upon which I sat before him the great Indecency of Christians being careless of their Garb and Appearance when they come to the House of God: and in particular of his coming bare foot and bare legged etc. etc.

1756 August 27 (Friday). I was not So well as of late. My Shoulder and Hand were as Usual, Pained, and the latter Swelled: but my Knees were feeble, and I fear the Distempers Settling upon me: but I am never the less the chief of the Day employed in my Study—reading, thinking, writing. Capt. Fay to See Me. Several women P.M. Billy was again with Ebenezer but p.m. went with him to the great Pond with a Team and got a Load of Sand for the Floor.

1756 August 28 (Saturday). P.M. Mr. Gardner here. At Eve came Rev. Weld, late of Upton, and lodged here. N.B. I sent his Horse to Neighbour Alpheus Newtons.

1756 August 29 (Sunday). Mr. Weld preached a. and p.m. on Luk. 2.25, those words—The Consolation of Israel. I went to Meeting all Day and prayed after the last Sermon. I am evidently Stronger in Body, but Some of my Limbs are weak. May I be a Sharer among those to whom the Lord Jesus Christ is So glorious a Consolation! Mr. Weld at Eve left us to go to Mr. Ebenezer Fisks in Grafton.

1756 August 30 (Monday). Ebenezer came and earnestly requests I would help him to get the Gilbert Place in Brookfield near Mr. Forb. but it grieves me I am under such an incapacity to gratifie him herein. He also talks about Alexanders living with him till he is 14. But this was not ripened. Powerfull, plentiful Rains after great Dryness.

1756 August 31 (Tuesday). Rainy morn. Mr. Campbell here; he and a Number of Ministers meet at Mr. Stone’s to day about their Woodstock affair; especially to make Some Reply to the Result of a late, large Ecclesiastical Council which was called by Mr. Stiles and the Church with Him. N.B. Mrs. Thankful Rice dined with us.

1756 September 1 (Wednesday). Neighbour Barnabas Newton breaks up a Field on the South of the Road before my House. Mr. Daniel Forb. brings large Stones and lays, in part, my Kitchin Hearth. He dines with us. As does Mr. Webb of Uxbridge who is returning home from Mr. Stone’s; he being one of those concerned in the Woodstock Affair. I consult him about my Wild Piony Remedy.

1756 September 2 (Thursday). A Frost last night; but don’t See that it has done any hurt. Mr. Forbush does not come to finish my Hearth, it being private Meeting at his House. Sorrowful News that Oswego is taken, and Consequently both a great Interest lost, and the Enemy exceedingly strengthened. The Lord look upon His people in much Mercy under this Sore Rebuke! And may we be prepared for what God will do next! And Sad News of one Harrington, his Stabbing Larnard at Watertown. God be praised for restraining Grace to Me and Mine!

1756 September 3 (Friday). I remain for Some Days in much the Same State of Body. Pained in my Right Shoulder and Right Hand, when I go to use them and my Hand remains Swelled. My Knees also are feeble when I go up Stairs or down. I beg Grace patiently to wait the Will of God as to my Perfect Recovery. Perfect Recovery! Then the Soul will be restored, which may God of His infinite Mercy grant! My Daughter in Law dines here, and She brings little Ebenezer and Molly. Young Larnard, Stabbed by Harrington the Night before last, is dead and Harrington committed. Billy begins to cutt Stalks, afraid lest the Frost Should spoil ‘em.

1756 September 4 (Saturday). Mr. Reddington of Toland, on his Journey from Haverhil gives me a melancholy Account of the Condition of Coll. Saltonstall, with Reference to his Estate, Disease, Reputation, etc. Rev. Mr. Campbell of Oxford calls to See me and dines. Mr. Daniel Forb. brings more stones and finishes the Hearth. We have confirmations of the taking Oswego, and also of Port Mahon. May God look down upon His own Cause and People and appear for them in His own Time and Way—but it is now exceeding Dark and Gloomy!

1756 September 5 (Sunday). I have taken a late Cold and am much oppressed with it: was full of Hopes through the Week, of Preaching to Day, and therefore was fully prepared, as to Sermons composed; but now when the Day is come am so hoarse, and many ways so indisposed that I was all the Morning in great Concern what to do—till Mr. Cushing (So God was pleased in his good Providence to Order it) appeared in Sight—for he having got Mr. Crawford to preach for him, was come to help me; for which I was heartily thankfull. He preached a.m. on Joh. 15.14. P.M. on 1 Pet. 4.18. At Eve he returned home, purposing to visit Mr. Edward Wilson in his Way, Mr. W. being dangerously sick.

1756 September 6 (Monday). My Kinsman Winter in his Journey from Middleton in Connecticut, home; called here: he had in Company, one Mr. Wiswall, and Mr. John Sweetzer junior and his Wife. They were not perswaded to tarry all night but pursued their Course to Coll. Buckminster’s. Brother Harrington from Watertown here, but goes to lodge at Ebenezers.

1756 September 7 (Tuesday). I rode down to See Mr. Stone, and dined there. He was engaged in the difficult Affair of digging his Well deeper: had Mr. Boynes, who was blowing the Rocks. N.B. I returned by Mr. Snows whom I want to have work at my Kitchin, to finish the Outside at least, which is not yet done: he was not at home. I returned at Eve. N.B. my Chair being much disabled, I asked Mr. Stone for his (who consented) for my Wife to go to Boston.

1756 September 8 (Wednesday). P.M. my Wife and I rode to Several of the South Neighbours, viz. Ensign Harringtons, Ensign Millers, and Serj. Forbush’s. My Cold notwithstanding continues; nor is my right Arm well.

1756 September 9 (Thursday). Mr. Smith here and dines with us. He comes to Speak to me about my wifes going to Boston that if She does not go next week nor the week after, he may have Mr. Stones Chair, the Body of it, to go to Cape Ann: This we consent to (if he will return (Providence favoring) So as that She may go the beginning of the Subsequent). But if he shall be prevented by Providence returning as he proposes, then he would have me hire a Chair in Marlborough which he will pay for. He particularly Mentions Capt. Joseph Hows.

1756 September 10 (Friday). Mr. Moses Twitchell with Micah Holbrook, to help him comes to finish the Clearing (the Cutting down) which he undertook to do last spring, but did not accomplish it. I was not pleased with his letting it alone till this time of the Year: it being very opposite to my agreement with him. Mr. Hutchinson Sends me a Letter that he purposes to help me next Lords Day—and writes the Sum of the Matter on the outside of it.

1756 September 11 (Saturday). Last night Adam and Ebenezer Rice help Billy cutt Stalks by Moon Light. My Cold continues Still, and the Rheumatic Pains in my right Arm.

1756 September 12 (Sunday). Mr. Hutchinsons Pulpit Supplyed by Sir Crawford, he comes to my help as he had writ but he lodged at Esq. Bakers last night and came here in the Morning. I went to meeting. Mr. Hutchinson preached a.m. from Eph. 1.7.8, p.m. from Heb. 5.9. After Sermon I appointed the Next Sabbath to be the Time for a Contribution for the Relief of Jotham Death of Poqueoge. Mr. Hutchinson returned to Esq. Bakers at Eve, in order to his going home.

1756 September 13 (Monday). Mr. Eliphalet Adams’s little son of 3 and 1/2 dyed of Fever and Flux, as did a little Negro Boy of Lt. Maynards. [Marginal notation: The Beginning of the sore sickness.] Mr. Jabez Snow here, and engages to come in a fortnight to work on my window Frames for Kitchin.

1756 September 14 (Tuesday). A great Frost last Night. A.M. at the Funeral of Mr. Eliphalet Adams’s Child; P.M. at the Burying of Lt. Maynards little Negro Boy. At Each House another Child is taken with the Distemper, and we have great reason to fear its Spreading. It is very Mortal in Holden, Chauxit etc. May the Lord fit and prepare us for His sovereign Pleasure!

1756 September 15 (Wednesday). Micah Holbrook clears instead of Mr. Moses Twitchell but does not finish the 3 Acres undertaken. I rode up to Mr. Balls in Grafton to get Lime for Plaistering; and agreed with him for an Hogshead of Smithfield-Lime for [7?]£ l0/ Old Tenor. Dined at Mr. Winchesters.

1756 September 16 (Thursday). I have taken Some notice of my now completing my 53d Year—vid. Natal. May God make me more and more sensible of my advancing into Years, and the necessity of giving all Diligence in working the works of Him that Sent me!

1756 September 17 (Friday). The Frost having in some Measure seized my Corn, Billy (agreeable to the practice which some of the Neighbours go into) stripps down the Husks, as it stands in the Field. Ebenezer Rice junior helps him. Thomas so riggs up the Chair that my Wife and I ride to Marlborough. Dined at Esq. Brighams—and then Visited the late Doctors Widow who has but newly lain in. We returned safe at Eve.

1756 September 18 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1756 September 19 (Sunday). I not only went to Meeting, but preached both parts of the Day (but did not read publickly). Text Prov. 3.17 a. and p.m. Contribution for Mr. Jotham Death. N.B. Mr. Noah How’s youngest Child lies dead. Lt. Stephen Maynard came in the morning Early to request me to go to their House, two of their Children being very bad, Stephen (of about 9) and Josiah (of [blank] Months). I went accordingly. The Youngest (Josiah) ceased to breathe just as we concluded prayer. The Other departed about 2 p.m.

1756 September 20 (Monday). A.M. was at the Burial of Mr. Noah How’s Child, which was at the Middle Burying-place. Notwithstanding this I dined at Home and p.m. took my wife up into the Chair and attended the Funerals of Lt. Maynards Children; both buryed in one Grave and in one Coffin. A very sorrowful Time, and This especially an affecting Spectacle! N.B. I was invited by Deacon Forbush to the Raising of his saw-Mill, but Providence called me to other Work!

1756 September 21 (Tuesday). Billy gathers part of the Island Corn. Nathan Kenny helped him p.m. We were obliged to gather it because of the Hoggs invading it. N.B. I visited Old Mr. Maynard, who is not well and I took Opportunity of discharging my Duty to his Daughter Mercy, who, though unmarried, is big with Child. I also visited Mr. David Maynard junior’s Wife who has been for Some time drooping, and in some Spiritual Exercises.

1756 September 22 (Wednesday). I wrote to Mr. Martyn last Monday to come and preach my Lecture for me, and I looked [illegible] for him and his wife but neither of them came. I was obliged to preach my self. Text was Mat. 12.20. After Lecture the Deacons came to [my Hou?]se, and we counted the Money collected last Lords Day for Mr. Jotham Death of Poquaog, and it appeared to be £12.13.4 old Tenor. Billy gathered the rest of the Corn at the Island.

1756 September 23 (Thursday). I visited Justice Baker, who is ill of a bloody Flux. Several others in the Parish I hear have Fever and Flux. O that we had an Heart to turn at the divine Reproof!

1756 September 24 (Friday). Dr. Willson here and dined with me. A Young Man whom he is instructing, with him; one Ommedon of Mendon. Ebenezer not well.

1756 September 25 (Saturday). After a considerable dry time, we have the favor of a rainy p.m. N.B. Mr. Nathaniell Ball of Grafton brought me an Hogshead of Lime from Smithsfield: for which I gave him a Note for one pound Lawful Money to be paid Jan. 1st next.

1756 September 26 (Sunday). My right Arm continues weak and in Some Situations painfull; It was also heavy Weather: but I went out and preached a. and p.m. and administered the Lords Supper. Text a.m. Joh. 10.11. P.M. Prov. 3.17. N.B. A great many are Sick among which Old Mr. David Maynard, Capt. John Maynard and Mr. John Rogers.

1756 September 27 (Monday). In the morning Lt. Maynard came in haste to desire me to visit his Father who grows worse. I Soon went; and found, alas! that he was in a very low Condition, and it was very doubtful whether he would Recover. He had his Reason in a Considerable Measure while I was there, and freely and bitterly lamented his Neglect of attending on the Lords Table: He Said if it Should please God to recover him, he would by no means neglect it any longer. He desired me to pray to God for him, that in a Special Manner He would please to forgive that Sin. I left him for a while, and visited Mr. Noah Hows and a Daughter of Mr. Warrin over the River who were sick also, and prayed with them, after which I returned to Capt. Maynards. Doctor Crosby being with me and we both of us dined there. I perceived that the Captain was altered, but, having his Reason, I conversed with him again. The Doctor Said that for his part, he thought he was irrecoverable and that Death had seized him; I therefore went to him again and acquainted him with what the Doctor judged etc. He said it did not strike him with so great Fear as might be thought, for he [torn] apprehensive of it and looking for it. He desired me to offer up a short prayer before I left him. We prayed and I took my final Leave of this old, and generous, Bountifull Friend. I then went to see his Aged Uncle, who is grown weak and low; having prayed with him I returned home. In the Evening finished and settled with Deacon Forbush and gave him a Receipt in full.

1756 September 28 (Tuesday). My Wife would have gone to Boston, but little Sophy was not well. I visited at Mr. Ebenezer Forb., his Son Ebenezer being ill. I went also to See Neighbour John Rogers who is sick. Prayed at Each of those Houses. Mr. Ephraim Bruce having 2 Children Sick I next went there—dined with them and Proceeded to the Burial of Mr. Timothy Warrins youngest Child which dy’d yesterday. Divers others of his Children are sick—likewise his Brother Daniel’s wife and one of their Daughters. After the Burying I visited Mr. Daniel Adams’s son that is Sick and prayed with them. N.B. Capt. Maynard dyed last Evening about 8 o’Clock.

1756 September 29 (Wednesday). Capt. Maynards Funeral. Mr. Martyn was there with me—and from thence came to our House. My Wife and Billy in the Chair to Marlborough (having left little Sophy at Ebenezers, his wife to suckle her, and Sarah to tend her) in order to her going to Boston. The Death of Capt. Maynard is on many accounts a great Loss; but especially to poor people. May God raise up Charitable and Beneficent ones in his Stead!

1756 September 30 (Thursday). Visited Neighbour John Rogers again who is very ill. Went also to See Mr. Ebenezer Forbush’s little son again, who remains very low. The Sorrowful News from the Army is confirmed, of the multitudes which have dyed by Sickness, and of the great Slaughter made lately by the Indians upon a Scout of our Men that were going from one fort to t’other. We hear that they consisted of 44 or 5; and all were shot down but 4, who escaped to the Fort. May God awaken us under Such repeated and heavy Frowns!

1756 October 1 (Friday). Have great pain Still in my right Shoulder, Arm and Hand, especially in the Nights. Hope that Sophia is comfortable since I hear Nothing from thence. Visit at Ebenezer Forb. Mr. J. Rogers, who is very low.

1756 October 2 (Saturday). My Wife and son returned in Safety from Boston. D.G.

1756 October 3 (Sunday). Preached a.m. on Mat. 12.20, repeating the 3d Sermon on that Text. P.M. on Heb. 10.31 on occasion of the grievous [torn]ness and Mortality among us: and especially the Death of Capt. John Maynard.

1756 October 4 (Monday). A great Frost last night. Visited again Mr. Ebenezer Forb.’s Child, who is now exceeding low. Attended at the Funeral of a Child of Mr. John Rogers, he himself remaining in a very low Condition. Dined at my Sons and p.m. went to see another Child of Lieut. Maynard, his daughter Elizabeth very dangerously ill. Visited Mr. Noah Hows wife also; Mr. Daniel Warrins Children, 4 of which are Sick; old Mrs. Hannah Rice; and Mr. Tinnys, himself Lame and 2 Children Sick. At Eve a Quarter of Beef (weighed 107) of Mr. Nathan Maynard. Mr. Gardner Ends his School among us.

1756 October 5 (Tuesday). A yet greater Frost last night. We are Exceedingly put to’t for Water to Wash: Billy went yesterday as far as the Brook beyond Mr. Nurse’s for two Barrells; to Day my Wife sends her Cloths, for rinsing, to a Spring in Capt. Forbush’s Meadow. Master Gardner goes home to Stow.

1756 October 6 (Wednesday). Visited Several Sick, viz. Little Ebenezer Forb., Dr. Chase’s Wife and little Daughter: Mr. John Rogers—and attended the Funeral of Lt. Maynard’s Daughter Elizabeth. After which I rode up to Mr. Samuel Fay junior, his son Hezekiah being very dangerously ill. N.B. Old Mr. Maynard and his Children in much sorrow intermixed with their Joy. Neighbour Nathans Wife is brought to bed and has a Son—but Mercy likewise and the Latter has a black one. Thought to be by Mr. Masons Essex. A most grievous and Sore Evil! God grant her Repentance and her Wicked Companion also: and Support the wounded Relatives, and give to each of that Grace which may be sufficient for them!

1756 October 7 (Thursday). Early in the Morning walked to Mr. Daniel Adams’s to See his son, being in a very low and dangerous State. Mrs. Rebec. Warrin here, and dined with us. P.M. attended the Funeral of two of Mr. Daniel Warrins Children (of the other Precinct). The Children were Daniel of about 6, and Asaph, of about 2. After waiting upon that Duty I turned in to Mr. Noah How’s to see his Wife who is yet alive. I endeavoured her instruction and Edification by the most Seasonable Discourse I could think of, as also of those who were in the room besides but when I put Some Questions to her that were very close and trying (indeed whether they were the Closeness of those or no that caused her to say so, I cant tell) she said, my Discourse worryed her desperately. Upon this I desisted and bid her farewell, nor did either of them ask me to pray with them. This was to my great Grief, as I never expect to See her alive again.

A Number of Persons, about 32, came and husked out my West Field of Corn, and that by the Barn. My son Thomas helped me Yesterday and to Day in Cutting it up and gathering it into Heaps. Mr. Alph. Newton likewise assisted part of p.m. and Mr. Moses Nurse in the Evening got his Team, and by the help of Some of the Hands brought in what was not carted in the Day. Lt. Tainter and his son, Deacon Bond, Mr. Jonah Warrin, Mr. Eliezer Rice were part of the Company. N.B. News of a great multitude of French and Indians consisting of many thousands, coming against our Forts and Frontiers.

1756 October 8 (Friday). Very rainy Day. All my Corn and Husks lie abroad. N.B. Mr. Samuel Fay junior burys his Son Nehemiah to Day, though So rainy: he had sent to me but I could not Venture in so wet a Season to go out.

1756 October 9 (Saturday). It has been a very rainy Night and Morning. Mr. Daniel Adams’s only Child is Dead and the Appointment of Burial is nine this Morning. A Child of Mr. Edmund Rice, Samuel about 2 1/2 old, lies dead, and the appointment Ten, this morning, also: Mr. Noah Hows Wife dyed last Evening and is to be buryed this afternoon. Mr. Ebenezer Forbush’s Ebenezer dyed last night. So that there are 4 lie dead in our Parish at this time. My son Thomas having Watched with Mr. Rogers, brings word that he is but just alive. By reason of the Rain I could not attend either of the Funerals of the forenoon: but p.m. it so held up that I went to the Funeral of Mrs. How. May God be merciful to us in this Day of Adversity and Calamity! This has been a very remarkable Week for mortality among us. Every Day since last Sabbath there has been either Death or Buryal: Eight have dyed in 4 Days, viz. the 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th, and 7 of them in 3 Days. Such is the Will of the holy and Sovereign God!

1756 October 10 (Sunday). Although the People are, as I apprehend, too backward in moving for a Fast, yet I thought it my Duty to stop the Church at noon, and propose it to them. They complyed by a pritty general Vote. The Day to be next Thursday (God willing)—and p.m. I recommended it to the Congregation and requested them to join with us therein. A.M. I preached on Heb. X.31. P.M. repeated Sermon 1 Hos. 6.1. After Meeting attended the Funeral of Mr. Ebenezer Forbush’s son Ebenezer which dy’d the night before last. N.B. There were 18 Notes and Requests for Prayers etc.

1756 October 11 (Monday). This morning we have the sorrowful News that Neighbour John Rogers is dead; and that Neighbour Bathericks youngest Daughter Lydia, Aets. 5, dyed also this Morning. Mr. Jabez Snow came to work here; layd a Floor over the Bed-Room. My Daughter Lucy returned from Brookfield, Capt. Baldwin with her.

1756 October 12 (Tuesday). Capt. Baldwin to Boston. Mr. Snow makes Window Frames for the Kitchin. Deacon Kimbal works for me: plaisters in the Cieling [sic] of my West-Chamber, Entry and part of Stair Case. Attended the Funerals of Mr. John Rogers and Mr. Bathericks Daughter. They had appointed the Same time of Day, and therefore met at Mr. Rolfs and I prayed with them both there. At Night Mr. Grout being very ill, Sent for me. I went: it was between 9 and 10. Found him but poorly able to converse: tarryed there till between 12 and 1 and then took leave—lodged at Mr. Moses Brigham. N.B. John is ill; Lucy not well. Brother Harrington here at Eve.

1756 October 13 (Wednesday). Mr. Grout dyed this Morning. Mr. Snow and Deacon Kimbal at work. I rode to Shrewsbury Fast on the Account of the Wasting Sickness among them. Called at Mr. Daniel Warrins as I went, his Daughter Abigail (of 17) sick, and their Daughter Elizabeth very low. I did not arrive at Mr. Cushings till noon. Mr. Morse had prayed and Mr. Hutchinson preached. P.M. I prayed and Mr. Maccarty preached. His Text Gen. [blank]. I returned at Eve, called at Warrins again. My little John worse.

1756 October 14 (Thursday). John’s illness increases upon him. May God fit him and us for the divine Will! This Day was observed as a Day of Fasting and Prayer on the Account of the Sickness. Mr. Hutchinson prayed a.m. and Mr. Martyn preach’d on Hos. 6.4.5.6. P.M. Mr. Cushing prayed and Mr. Stone preached. His text Ps. 146.4. May God accept our Offerings and spare His People! Dr. Crosby here.

1756 October 15 (Friday). John grows Worse. Ebenezer Stone at Lt. Brighams who was So very bad, dyes this morning. I visited there a.m. and attended Mr. Grouts Funeral p.m. Sent for by Mr. Bezaleel Smith being in a low and dangerous Condition. Took my final Farewell of him. Capt. Baldwin here.

1756 October 16 (Saturday). He takes with him the Horse and Tackling that Lucy rode upon, to return to Brookfield. I attended the Funeral of Ebenezer Stone. My little John a little better. Dr. Crosby here both Yesterday and to Day. Alexander is followed with the Fever and Ague, at t’other House. I am informed that a Family of Neutral French, as they were called, are come into Town and dwell in Mr. Hammonds House.

1756 October 17 (Sunday). Could not Seasonably accomplish my preparation of one Sermon which I undertook; So continual were my Interruptions and Engagements every Day last Week. I therefore repeated with Additions my Sermon on Prov. 14.9 a. and p.m. Which may God most gracious please to bless and prosper! Mr. Bazaleel Smith is yet living and desires prayers for him. My little John is worse; his Flux continues, and a great Aversion to take either Medicine or Food. Must leave him in the Hands of God who alone can help him. My son Ebenezer is ill also.

1756 October 18 (Monday). John remains in a very low Condition. We are waiting the divine Will: but need His Special Aids that we may be conformed thereto. Visit Mr. Zebulun Rice, Two of his Children being ill. Mrs. Death, Wife of Mr. Jotham Death, for whom we Contributed, was here; and I delivered her the Money that was collected. Mr. Jabez Snow Shingling the north side of my Kitchin. Mr. Thomas Frost with Billy carting in Stalks, Husks, Pumpkins. I visited Mr. Ebenezer Maynard whose youngest Son is Sick. And made a Visit to poor, Miserable Mercy Maynard, and find her in Some Penitent Way, which may God please to forward and ripen! At Eve little John still continues; but very ill and Weak. My Wife almost disheartened about him.

1756 October 19 (Tuesday). I ‘waked early; a great while before Day: being full of deep Concern for my little Son, my Heart wrought much. Was very fervent and importunate in Addresses for him: as also for Pardon of Personal and Fam. Offenses—for the great Grace likewise of preparation for the divine Pleasure. When I went into the room where my Wife and son were, I found he was much revived; and hopes gladdened us of his Recovery. D. Opt. Max. Grates per plurim. ex imo Corde per solva!

I made a Visit to the French Family lately brought among us. They dwell at Mr. Biglows. The Mans Name is Simon LeBlanc. He is about 55. From Nova Scotia about 9 Leagues off from Annapolis. Has with him a Wife and 4 Children: himself Rheumatic—appears Sociable; is a roman Catholic; but is able to read. N.B. My own Rheumatism continues in my right Arm so bad that I have applyed another Blister. Breck fetches Winter Apples from Mrs. Barnes. N.B. towards Night a strong Tempest.

1756 October 20 (Wednesday). Mr. Snow came to work again. Little John grows Still better. D.G. Dr. Crosby here. Mr. Bezaleel Smith dyes. P.M. Mr. Hutchinson here, returning from a Fast at Framingham. N.B. his Talk about Mr. William Crawford. Mr. Snow breaks off before Night, to go to Lt. Maynards to choose some Boards for me, but without success. Finished reading Fordyce on the Art of Preaching and the Eloquence of the Pulpit.

1756 October 21 (Thursday). Mr. Snow came (from home) to work here. Visit Mr. Reuben Maynards Family; his Wife and two Children being Sick of the Distemper. And I attended the Funeral of Mr. Bezaleel Smith. N.B. Mr. Snow lodged here.

1756 October 22 (Friday). Mr. Snow at work here. Visit Aged Mr. Bradish being Sick. P.M. to Mr. D. Hardys for Boards for Mr. Snow to Work. And called to See the French Family again. Mr. Ebenezer Chamberlin kindly brought me a Barrell of Cyder; and another from Mr. Ithamar Bellows, both gratis.

1756 October 23 (Saturday). Mr. Snow worked ½ a Day. My right shoulder Lame yet with Rheumatic Pains. Such is the holy and sovereign Will of God! To which I beg Grace to enable me humbly to submitt.

1756 October 24 (Sunday). Mr. Pierpont of New Haven on his Journey from Rochester home, came here this Morning: and tarrys with us over the Sabbath. I preached a.m. on Heb. 10.31 and p.m. repeated sermon on Jer. 6.8. May God give His Blessing! At Evening I had the great Pleasure of Conversing with my dear Friend Pierpoint about his late eminent and memorable Spouse. He has brought me her private Papers, containing many of her Spiritual Experiences. He has also a Draught which the Rev. Mr. Jacob Johnson, minister of New Groton, has made therefrom; containing with all an Account of her Life and Character—in order to publication but imperfect. And Mr. Pierpont requests me to review both this Draught, and the Journals, and if I think it may be for the Divine Glory and for the Service of the Christian World to publish Memoirs of her, to prepare them accordingly. He Shewed me also divers Letters, upon this Affair. I accept the Papers to read, but under my present Circumstances, can’t give him Encouragement that I will do it. N.B. Alexander in a relaxed state, after Fever and Ague, returns to tarry at Home.

1756 October 25 (Monday). Mr. Pierpoint and I rode over to Mr. Martyns and dined there. In returning home visited Several Sick Familys, viz. Mr. (Over the River) Daniel Warrins; and Mr. Edmund Rice’s.

1756 October 26 (Tuesday). Mr. Pierpoint was purposing to set out for home, but I importuned him to tarry another Day with us. N.B. he shewed me Mr. Edwards of Stockbridge’s Letter, directing him to Me to publish an Account of the late worthy and pious Mrs. Pierpont. I visited Lt. Brigham, who with his Wife and most of his Children are Sick of the wasting Sickness—his Son Antipas in Special very ill. P.M. attended the funeral of the Youngest Child of Mr. Reuben Maynard.

1756 October 27 (Wednesday). My Wife and Daughter Lucy rode over to Mr. Martyns to Lecture after parting with our dear Friend Mr. Pierpoint, who this Morning left us to pursue his Journey home. I was called to go to Mr. Edmund Rice’s, to the Funeral of his Child, his son Edmund. After prayer at the House of Mourning I rode to the Lecture though late. And Mr. Stone, who was spoke to to preach, not being come, I preached—Text 1 Sam. 4.22. We all returned home at Evening in safety; Except that My Rheumatic Pain in my right Arm is increased.

1756 October 28 (Thursday). N.B. Mr. Daniel Stone in trouble, on account of my Son Thomas who had sued him for a Debt of his sons which he had undertaken to pay, but neglected. Fast at Southborough. Mr. Stone had Sent Mr. Ephraim Woods to me to assist him; but it proved so rainy that (under my indispositions especially) I could not venture to go in the morning. After 11 a.m. it held up so that though Cloudy and lowery, I rode there. Mr. Stone had prayed and Mr. Smith preached a.m. P.M. Mr. Bridge prayed and I preached the Same Text as Yesterday, viz. 1 Sam. 4.22. May it be accompanyed with the Divine Blessing; especially into my own Soul! That I may be duely concerned for the Ark of God, the Signs and Tokens of the divine Presence among us; that I may be humbled for the Hand I my Self have had (which has been alas! not small) in provoking the Lord’s Displeasure against His People and that I may do my Utmost to prevent the Glory departing from us!

N.B. Mr. Stone, when I returned to his House, in Conformity to one Head in the Discourse (he said), viz. concerning Brotherly Admonition gave me his fraternal Correction, for stopping to Speak with Some Persons near the Meeting House after the Exercise was over, which I gave him an account of—Scil: that it was to Enquire how my Wife’s Nephew, Dr. Gott, did; we having heard that he was dangerously sick at Marlborough and my wife was greatly concerned about him, so that She had been endeavoring for some time to go and see him, but she had been prevented by the Sickness of Several of our own Children and Several Other Things that had occurred. This Enquiry was made by me of Mrs. Susanna Gleson who had been nursing Dr. Gott and was lately come from him. The Other person I Spoke to was Old Mrs. Phillips who stopped me as I passed along, She being glad to see me abroad again, and wanted also to Enquire of me concerning her Children who dwell among us. When I gave Mr. Stone this Account he said he was Satisfied as to this.

In returning home I was detained some time at Bruce’s by a Storm of Rain, Thunder and Wind. N.B. Mr. Huston, a preacher, was there. When it cleared up I came home, though late, in safety. D.G.

1756 October 29 (Friday). My Wife and Lucy to Marlborough in the Chair, to See Dr. Gott etc. etc. Mr. Francis Gardner from Stow, calls here; and is better in Health, than when he left our School. N.B. I have applyed another Blister to my right Arm, to remove the Rheumatic Pains which still affect me. May God give His Blessing, on which alone Success depends!

1756 October 30 (Saturday). Mr. Solomon Woods here and informs me they are very ill at Deacon Forbushs and desire me to visit them. I went accordingly and found the Young Deacon not well, but growing worse. Several of his Children ill, but especially two of his Daughters in a Dangerous State, Joanna but especially Sarah. Rufus Putnam also very ill there. All of them the Distemper. I dined there. Old Mrs. Forb. is also drooping.

1756 October 31 (Sunday). A.M. preached on Heb. 10.31 and p.m. Rom. 11.33 which I had delivered some Years ago, for, except Friday, I was obliged to be out from home every Day of the week, so that I could prepare but one sermon.

1756 November 1 (Monday). The Committee for the Burying Place—I offer them that if they have a Mind to Alter the Bounds on the East side I will give them two Rods for one, on the North—but Nothing is done to Effect. The Precinct met to see whether they will Alter and settle my Yearly Sallery—or if not, add to my Sallery for this Year. The former they would not do, though it was long debated. Mr. Daniel Forb. came to me from them. I sent them a paper of this Day—but the Vote went in the Negative notwithstanding. A Majority of one only carryed it so. The latter was granted—and they made this years to be in old Tenor 470 and 30 to Lt. Tainter for wood; in all £500 old tenor. At Eve visit Deacon Forb. who lost his Daughter Sarah; his Daughter Joanna very bad; his son Jonathan ill—So is his Mother, and the Young Man Rufus Putnam, whose Mother, Sadler, is with him: but especially Deacon Forbush is himself very bad and growing worse still. He took a Vomit to day, but still renches and Strains; nor does any thing relieve him.

1756 November 2 (Tuesday). A.M. at the funeral of another of Mr. Reuben Maynards Children, the Name, Bethiah. Dined at Mr. Joseph Bruce’s with his Wife, he being from home. Visited and prayed with Mrs. Hannah Tainter, who is sick. Thence I rode to Deacon Forb. who is grown extremely bad and fears he shall not live through the Night. His Daughter Sarah buryed. The rest of the House, not worse than they were. Am much affected with the Deacons low Condition. Wrote to Mr. Forb. of Brookfield. N.B. Dr. Minot of Concord here to invite me and my Wife, my Son Thomas and Daughter Lucy, to his Wedding next Thursday come se’nnight.

1756 November 3 (Wednesday). So Stormy I can neither visit Deacon Forb. nor expect Mr. Martyn to preach. Was obliged to preach my self, to an handfull of people. Text was Heb. 13.14. Deacon, I hear, is somewhat better. D.G. But his Daughter Joanna is dead.

1756 November 4 (Thursday). I hear that to Day there is a Fast at Hopkinton and that I am sent to, but no Message has reached me. I attended the Funeral of Deacon Forbs. Daughter Joanna. The Deacon Seems to be more comfortable both in Mind and Body—thinks he knows in whom he has believed etc. Sister Forb. low yet: and the Youngest Child ill. But Rufus Putnam is recovering. My Daughter in Law here, and is very earnest to know what I will do for her Husband. She lodges here.

1756 November 5 (Friday). Daughter Eliza urges me still with the Same Affair. Billy brings over 4 Bushell of Turnips from Ebenezer and works for him p.m. in gathering or cutting up his Corn. Am sent for to visit at Lt. Brighams (am forced to borrow Mr. Nurse’s Horse) and went. Antipas very bad—Barny also dangerously ill; and Jonas (the oldest son) taken sick. So that now all their Family, but a Boy that lives with them (Jonas Twitchell) have had the Distemper.

1756 November 6 (Saturday). Mr. Forbush of Brookfield here: came last night to his Fathers. He returns back as far as Worcester that he may preach there tomorrow. Billy thrashes Rye. Mr. Mason here and informs me his Idiot son Aaron, is dead of the Distemper. He has Gloves here for the Funeral; and engages me a Shoat in payment—but leave my Wife to trade with him, being Shortned for Time for my Preparations in these Extraordinary Times.

1756 November 7 (Sunday). Preached a.m. on Heb. 10.31 and finished the Subject. Administred the Lords Supper. Desired Mr. Francis Whipple to assist instead of Deacon Forb. who is Sick. Deacon Bond and his Wife, and old Mrs. How dined with us. P.M. I repeated sermon on Rev. 22.14 to page 68. Mr. Forb. having preached at Worcester, returns hither and goes to see his Mother and Brother this Eve.

1756 November 8 (Monday). Sister Forb. very ill yet: but especially her Son is very low, and his youngest Child, Hannah. As I went to see them I called to See the French Family—and it being p.m. when I was there, they made Tea and I drank with them. Thence I walked to the House of Chief Distress and tarried into Evening. Assisted in writing Deacon Forb.’s Will. Find him very much composed in his Mind as to his Spiritual state also, and willing to depart and to be with Christ which is best of all. He said he wanted to Speak to the world round about him. (I suppose it was upon the Same head that he Spake once before, viz. to exhort to get ready for dying) but says he, it must be by your Mouth. The young Child dyed while we were at prayer. I left ‘em about 10 at Night, commending ‘em to the infinite Mercy and Grace of God through the Glorious Redeemer.

1756 November 9 (Tuesday). I catechized at Mr. Joslyn’s. Had about 20 Children. N.B. After the Exercise came Mrs. Judith Bellows again but it was much the Same fruitless Talk as it used to be. The Lord pity her, and grant her the Grace of true Repentance! N.B. Mr. Jonah Warrin with a Yoke of Oxen, Billy with his Brothers Oxen, and Mr. Nurse’s Plough, ploughed part of my Field behind the Meeting House: but Mr. Warrin tarryed only a.m., the Coulter of the Plough being worn too much, and we could not get it immediately Mended. Billy having done Some small Jobbs with Ebenezers Oxen, went home with them before Night.

1756 November 10 (Wednesday). Am informed this Morning that about ten o’Clock last night Deacon Jonathan Forbush junior departed this Life. I hope in Christ, and that he is gone to Glory! But an heavy and sorrowfull Loss to his dear Wife, to his distressed Parents and Children, to his mournful Brethren and sisters, Nei[gh]bours and Friends; in a Peculiar Manner to the Church of God here, of which he was a shining Ornament, especially for his Integrity and Uprightness. This Death affects me very much, as he was a very singular Friend to the best Interests among us; and one on whom I might as well depend (under God) as upon any Man in the whole Place. I may take up Davids Lamentation, “I am distressed for thee (on the Account of the Loss of thee) my Brother Jonathan. Very pleasant hast thou been to me!”2 May God teach us all, and me especially to profit by His holy Stroke upon us! O for Grace to be ready also! Mr. Jonah Warrin with his Oxen, and Billy with his Brothers plough again. P.M. instead of burying Deacon Forb.’s Child at one, the Funeral of both the Father and the Child are appointed to be at 3. They are buryed in one Coffin. There is an Universal Lamentation. N.B. Capt. Baldwin brings my Daughter Forb. who came from Brookfield yesterday, and her Daughter Lydia.

1756 November 11 (Thursday). Rain a.m. P.M. My wife and I, Thomas and Lucy accompanied by Capt. Baldwin, go over to Mr. Martyns, and at Eve we celebrate the Nuptials of Mrs. Molly to Dr. Minot of Concord. Mrs. P________ and I lodge there.

1756 November 12 (Friday). We Stayed till after Dinner at Mr. Martyns; In returning home we made a short Visit to Mr. Ebenezer Maynard and Wife.

1756 November 13 (Saturday). Sister Forb. lies in a very low Condition yet. I made her another Visit. Billy brings home a shoat which I bought of Mr. Mason—weighed 84 lb. at 12 d. per pound alive. P.M. I attended the buryal of Lt. Jonas Brighams Son Antipas, of about 6.

1756 November 14 (Sunday). My Son Forb. preached for me, a.m. on Mat. 12.13, p.m. on John 6.28.29. Which may the Lord accompany with His Special Blessing! My Cousen Sadler and old Mrs. Tainter dined with us. At Eve Mr. Forb. went to See his Mother, and tarryed there, She remayning in a low Condition.

1756 November 15 (Monday). I visited her once more my Self. She tells me She is not only willing to die; She is desirous of it. And when I asked her whether She thought it was upon good Grounds? She answered If it were not why Should she Wish for it? I dined there. P.M. called to See Monsieur LeBlanch again.

1756 November 16 (Tuesday). Billy has his Brothers Oxen and a Yoke of Mr. D. Hardy’s, and Nathan Kenny helps him in ploughing; and in harrowing in Rye, in the field behind the Meeting House. Mr. Aaron Nurse sows the Grain. N.B. Samuel Hicks here. Dines with us; and informs me that his Father is at Worcester; and, as he expressed it, has taken the Strong Fort there.

1756 November 17 (Wednesday). My Wife and Lucy ride to Marlborough and buy of Mrs. Anna Brigham nigh 70 £’s Worth of her Goods; at Eve return home. Ebenezer with his Oxen, Mare and my Mare harrow the Field abovesaid, Billy driving, and Mr. Aaron Nurse sowing. N.B. they dined here. Mr. Forb. and his Wife went to his Father’s, his Mother lying in an extremely low State: and they tarry there.

1756 November 18 (Thursday). This Morning Mr. Forb. and his Wife returned, and inform me that their Mother Forb. expired last night about 9 o’clock. She had led a useful Life, and had hope in her Death. This is now a wide and awful Breach! The 5th that has dyed in that House of late. The aged Deacon is also taken with the Distemper, though he be not bad yet. Surely O Lord thou art a God that dost hide thy Self. Thy Judgments are a Great Deep!3 Mr. Forb. etc. ride over to the North End. I preached a Lecture to the Young Men—the Text Tit. 2.6, from page 17 to middle of p. 23, and used part of page 27. But few at Meeting besides the Young people. May God Himself give His Almighty Blessing!

N.B. My little Anna-Sophia goes alone across the Room, She being this Day 13 months old.

1756 November 19 (Friday). Attended the Funeral of old Deacon Forbush’s Wife, my kind Sister in Law, who I hope is gone to inherit the Promises. At Eve My son and Daughter Forb. and their little Lydia left us to go on their Journey to Brookfield. May God grant ‘em to be brought on their Journey after a godly sort!

1756 November 20 (Saturday). Alexander remains in but a feeble State. Breck remains at t’other House.

1756 November 21 (Sunday). I preached on Mat. 25.6 and part of 10th verse a. and p.m. Deacon Forb. dined with us. Divers persons give Thanks for recovery and there is now no one that I know of, who is Sick, but is in the way of Restoration. D.G.

1756 November 22 (Monday). [No entry.]

1756 November 23 (Tuesday). Mr. John Child (the Glazier) here and mends our Windows.

1756 November 24 (Wednesday). I made a visit a.m. to the French people. Invited the Man and woman to come and dine with me tomorrow.

1756 November 25 (Thursday). Publick Thanksgiving. I preached on Ps. 150 from the 3d v. to the End. A stormy time. Snowed hard. Monsieur Le Blanche was not well enough to come out but his Wife, and Daughter Mary, were at Meeting and dined with Me.

1756 November 26 (Friday). Master John Martyn here, and bears a Message from his Father, desiring me to change next Lords Day. Mr. John Mead here and dines with me. Winterlike Weather.

1756 November 27 (Saturday). Magdalene and Mary Le Blanch here p.m. and behave them Selves with decency. Billy finishes thrashing our small Crop of Rye. At night I was under great Indisposition by a Lax.

1756 November 28 (Sunday). I have not had my Cloths wholly off all night being obliged to rise so frequently. Early in the Morning sent Billy to Mr. Martyn to acquaint him with my Indisposition: It was also misty and Sloppy uncomfortable stirring. But though I could not venture to ride to the North End, yet I went to Meeting here and preached—a.m. on Rev. 22.14 and p.m. on Mat. 25.6. Widow Joanna Forb. and her sisters, Mrs. Woods and Mrs. Sadler, as also Mrs. Chamberlin, dined here. In the afternoon I felt such disorder in my Bowels just as I was going to name my Text, that I feared I Should be obliged to go out: but I went through what I had prepared and made what decent dispatch I could in the whole Exercise, and hastened home. Found it needfull to lye down, but am not to day followed with very frequent evacuations. I find that others are in this working State—almost all my Family were obliged to get up last night, and I hear that others were so last week.

1756 November 29 (Monday). Was at Mr. Rolf’s, where came Mr. Solomon Prentice. I was also at Lt. Forbush’s, a.m. P.M. and Evening am reading some of the incomparable writings of Mrs. Rowe. To which are added some of her Husbands: Mr. Thomas Rowe. But I have abundant Reason to humble my Self before God for the Great Unprofitableness of my Life; and am divers ways under Gods holy Frowns. May the Lord grant me the Grace necessary for me that I may seriously reflect; and that I may be Quickened to New Obedience, that through the Merits of the glorious Jesus I may be recovered, and obtain the divine Favour!

1756 November 30 (Tuesday). Snow’d Night and part of the Morning—then Rain. Capt. Baldwin came from Brookfield, and arrived here at Night.

1756 December 1 (Wednesday). I rode over to Mr. Martyns: Capt. Baldwin and Lucy with me; to wait on Dr. Minot and his New spouse, as they are now going to Concord. I accompanyed them as far as Coll. Williams’s. (There were 13 Horses, every one riding single.) Capt. B. and Lucy went with them to Concord. I went to Mr. Smiths and to Esquire Brighams (where I found Mr. Smith). At Eve I returned home.

1756 December 2 (Thursday). Mr. Aaron Nurse assisted in killing a small sow; weighed a little more than 6 Score. P.M. preached at Deacon Forbush’s on Hos. 6.1. As I came back called to see Le Blanche; and found Biglow sick. Mr. Forbush came from Cambridge. He went to his Fathers to lodge.

1756 December 3 (Friday). An exceeding Cold Day. Mr. Forb. to Brookfield. Returned by him Sir Crawfords 1st Vol. of Art of Pleasing in Conversation. P.M. Mr. John Freeland, Taylor, works here, making Coats for our Boys. At Eve Capt. Baldwin and Lucy from Concord.

1756 December 4 (Saturday). Capt. Baldwin, after dining at t’other House, setts out for Brookfield. Mr. Freeland works here. P.M. I rode over to Mr. Martyns and lodged there.

1756 December 5 (Sunday). I preached at the North End on Mat. 25.6 a. and p.m. and returned home at Evening. May God grant it may be awakening both to the Audience and to me! N.B. My old School-Mate, Mr. Benjamin Goldthwait, now a Major in the Army, as I suppose, being on his Journey from the Lake, turned in to the Exercise p.m. Mr. Martyn preached for me, on Job 35.10 and Hab. 3.16.

1756 December 6 (Monday). A very Cold Day, and perhaps not inferior to last Friday. Neighbour Rolf’s House, I hear, narrowly escaped being burnt. At Eve Billy goes to Mr. Joseph Bruces with many others, on the Affair of setting up an Artillery Company.

1756 December 7 (Tuesday). Last night exceeding Cold.

1756 December 8 (Wednesday). Mr. Tainter, Mr. Thomas Twitchel and Mr. Eleazer Whitney dined here.

1756 December 9 (Thursday). Visited Old Mr. Fay—was at Capt. Fays.

1756 December 10 (Friday). Was at Le Blanche’s at Eve. His Wife Sick. N.B. I found in one of his Books that the Ten Commandments were very oddly disposed—viz. the 2d Commandment wholly omitted, and to make up the Number 10, the 10th was divided; the 9th was thou shalt not covet thy Neighbours wife—and the 10th thou shalt not covet thy Neighbours House etc.

1756 December 11 (Saturday). Magdalene and Mary Le Blanch here for Something for their Mother who is no better.

1756 December 12 (Sunday). Preached a. and p.m. on Mat. 25.6.10. Mrs. Chamberlin and Daniel How dined here. May God impress our Souls with His word!

1756 December 13 (Monday). Mrs. Mary Nurse at work, making little Boys Coats. I rode into the south of the Town—visit Le Blanch, his Wife better. At Lt. Tainters, Ensign Millers and his sons, James and Daniels, Widow Thurstons, and Mr. Grows. N.B. Town Meeting to Consider Town Debts etc. Very pleasant, Spring-like Day. Snow all gone. O that I might have inward brightness and pleasure!

1756 December 14 (Tuesday). Mrs. Mary Nurse. Mrs. Pierponts Papers.

1756 December 15 (Wednesday). Mrs. Mary Nurse. Neighbour Blanch’s Son [blank] came to visit his Father, with another French Man, that marryed a Daughter. Ebenezer brought me a side of Beef being part of his own steer weighed 220 (both of them). A Cold Day.

1756 December 16 (Thursday). Cold. Yet my Daughter in Law came over and brought her Child. P.M. She and Lucy went to See the French folks. Billy cleared part of the Day next to the Young Orchard Fence. Mrs. Mary Nurse is Still at Work here.

1756 December 17 (Friday). Cold Snow Storm. Mr. Hall of Sutton on his Journey home, turns in and tarrys with us. He purposes to me this Question, Whether a Child baptized by Ezekiel Cole, shall be baptized again? N.B. Cole has acknowledged his sin and folly in professing to be ordained and to act as a Minister: and the Father of the Child desires it might be baptized notwithstanding all that was done by Cole; yet it is allowed that Coles Ordination was as good as Wadsworth’s and the rest of the Separate Teachers, who have baptized many; So that the Conduct about this Instance of Cole’s, though but a single one (for the Other which he baptized was dead), would be of considerable Influence whether one way or t’other.

I told him I believ’d that if the Case was mine I Should baptize the Child, at least under those Circumstances.

1756 December 18 (Saturday). Mr. Hall undertakes the rest of his Journey home. Lt. Tainter goes to Watertown designing to Boston next Monday and carrys a couple of fat Geese, one to Mrs. Stoddard, the Other to Brother Samuel. N.B. Mrs. Mary Nurse goes p.m. to her Uncle’s.

1756 December 19 (Sunday). Preached a.m. on Mat. XXV.10 with v. 3.4 much referred to. P.M. having delivered a.m. as much as I could prepare, I delivered p.m. two Sermons preached above 20 Years ago on 1 Joh. 2.17 because of the Shortest Days in the Year, which Should affect us with the transitoriness of all Earthly things; and because of the Death of the Venerable Secretary Willard, and the Venerable Mr. Fox of Woburn; both which may God Sanctifie! For Surely both Church and State will tremble when Such Pillars are removed: and what shall we do for Gap-men when So eminent persons are taken away!

At Eve spend Some time again in looking over Mrs. Pierpoints Journals or Diary: and do wish and pray I might thereby be greatly quickned.

1756 December 20 (Monday). Another great Storm of Snow; but through the undeserved Goodness and Bounty of God We have Health and Habitation, Raiment, Food and Fuel. To His name be Glory! May we have Grace to improve what we are favoured with and Hearts rightly to Pity the Destitute and Distrest’d!

1756 December 21 (Tuesday). Though the Snow is so deep yet Mr. Benjamin Tainter comes with a large Team and breaks the Way with a load of Wood. Mrs. Mary Nurse is carryed home by her Uncle Ebe.

1756 December 22 (Wednesday). Breck is brought home from Ebenezer because he is Lame, having cut his right Legg with an Ax, before the former Sore on his left is healed. P.M. my Wife and I rode in the Slay to Monsieur Le Blanch’s. The poor Man is still much out of Health: the Woman much better. They conducted with much Civility, and presently prepared Tea for us. But I could make very little Opportunity to convey Instruction about Religion. When I injoined to mind those great Matters etc. he told me they did more about those Things than the English People here did: the Young People here, he said, were very wicked so that he would not let his sons go much among them. This was to my great Grief and Obstruction in what I would fain do for them.

1756 December 23 (Thursday). Ebenezer here and carrys Lucy over with him, his Wife being not well. I feel inconveniencys Still by the Remains of Rheumatism in my right Arm and Hand. Desire to resign to the holy and Sovereign Will of God.

1756 December 24 (Friday). [No entry.]

1756 December 25 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1756 December 26 (Sunday). I preached a. and p.m. on Mat. 25.10. May God accept, pardon and bless me and His people! Mrs. Foster (wife of Capt. of Holliston) dined. Brother Harrington at t’other House, but So beat out with his Journey (having been to Colchester, Norwich etc.) that he did not come to Meeting. In the Evening was in Some peculiar manner affected with Eternal Things and was enabled through Gods rich Grace and Goodness to pour out my Soul in fervency before the Lord. Was also in Some Measure humbled and melted under a Sense of Sin. O that it might be continued and increased! And that my dear Spouse and Children might experience the divine Almighty Spirit in his awakening and renewing Influences!

1756 December 27 (Monday). I rode to the widow Forb. about Pork. Bought a Side of an Hog of her, the other side being bespoke by her Brother Zebulun Rice; and thence I rode, through much difficulty in the Snow, to Ensign Harringtons, where I dined. P.M. at Ensign Millers where I bought another side of Pork, the other side of that was sold to his son Seth. N.B. When I returned home found Neighbour Blanc at my House. He spent the Eve with us: Mr. Biglow came to wait upon him home. Mr. Samuel Fay junior and his Wife here. They and Mr. Biglow Supped. N.B. My son Ebenezer here and brings 4 Quarters of Beef, being two Quarters more than I expected. They weighed 450 lb. He brought the Hide; weighed 74 lbs. Tallow but 28 pounds.

1756 December 28 (Tuesday). Ebenezer goes to Brookfield about the Gilbert place. Neighbour Alpheus Newton kills a large Hog for me—weighed 269, and a smaller, weighed 152. P.M. I made a Visit to the Widow Ward to talk with her and her Nephew Mr. Jonathan Ward, who was there, concerning Some uneasiness which the late Deacon Forbush told me there was among them and we were so happy as to remove the misunderstandings which were between us. When I left them I visited the Widow Gale. Was at Mr. Abijah Gale’s. N.B. Capt. Thomas Amsden there. Dr. Gott also. The latter is come from Brookfield, and informs me that he is going to Settle in Marlborough.

1756 December 29 (Wednesday). I visit Mr. Hezekiah How’s Wife who is dropsical and rheumatic as well as paralytic; but is better. I dined there. Visit at Benjamin’s: at Mr. Phinehas Maynards and at Mr. Seth Rice’s. Mr. Tinny with me in returning. N.B. Mrs. Mary Bradish keeps school at Mr. Tinny’s; and is greatly succeeded and admired in her Teaching.

1756 December 30 (Thursday). I Sent Billy with a Letter to Mr. Kimball House wright in Grafton, to See whether he will take Billy to be his ‘prentice, but it does not succeed. I send word also by him to Mr. Ball to Desire him not to come for Money I ow’d him, Mr. Pratt who owes me not having paid me. N.B. I went to Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s and settled Accounts with him, and paid him all to this Day. His Brother in Law, Charles, being returned from the Lake, I went to See him also—and dined at his Fathers. N.B. Mr. Richard Barns, Silas Frost, and Moses Sever are also returned from the War.

1756 December 31 (Friday). My Wife to Mr. Charles Rice’s—Merchants and Beetons. Mr. John Nichols of Upton here—and has one of Mr. Hopkins’s History of Stockbridge Indians. Mr. Samuel Fay here at Evening—tells me that in Boston he saw the Funeral of Coll. Pollard; the Cadets, of which he was Captain were in Mourning. This Gentleman was also high Sheriff of the County of Suffolk, and has had a long run of Pleasure and Honour and as I suppose of worldly Wealth. But behold a Period of human Glory! It cannot descend after him. His Gay Flourish and his enlivening Voice at Publick Ceremonies will be seen and heard no more! May God grant that the Last Day of the Year may Suitably affect me with a Meditation on the Last Day of my Life! But alas how far am I from what I ought to be!

I am very frequently much impressed with the thoughts of my Departure, and my State and Condition in that Eternal World into which I am hastening; and O how inexpressibly awfull that Day, that Hour will be when that work must be done, which is of Such Consequence to Me! And O how important the Work I am now, in Life, to accomplish if I would have that Day and Hour to be comfortable to Me! O God of infinite Mercy and Goodness, grant Me thine Almighty Grace to help a poor, miserable, helpless Worm! For without Thee I can do Nothing! Without thine Illumination, what hideous Darkness my Soul is filled with! Without thy Strength, what mere Impotence am I! Without thy Sanctification how Corrupt! And without the Robe of thy Righteousness, O divine Savior What Raggs and Rottenness cover Me! O that I were enabled to fly to Thee for thy most gracious Influences, that I may be truely Sensible of my State; may mourn for my numberless Offences, after a godly sort; may believe in the great and only Redeemer, to my Souls Salvation. And might I obtain Such Evidences hereof as may be to my Support and Consolation in Christ Jesus!