Diary of Ebenezer Parkman, 1760

1760 January 1 (Tuesday). To God be the Glory of His Long Suffering and unmerited Goodness! That I am preserved through So many and So wonderful Changes! Particularly of the Last Year, a year of uncommon Tryals. Besides the Sickness of my Children by the Meazles which came four times into my Family, and my Daughter Sarahs Sickness again, there was my Wife’s deep and Dangerous Sickness, in the former part; and my own in the more advanced part of the Year. Blessed be God for His Sparing Mercy to all of us who were at home: And to Billy in his safe Return; and that of my two sons in Law, from the Army; But,—alas! For the holy Frown of divine Providence in the Premature Death of my dear son Thomas! May God grant me and all that survive, the Grace suitably to improve that Dispensation, and His wonderful Indulgence in allowing us the New Year! I attended the Private Meeting at Deacon Bonds, and my Daughter Sarah with me. I preached on 1 Chron. 29.15, latter Clause, delivering 8 Heads of Reflections proper for the New Year; And there was a good Auditory. The Lord bless it to all of us through Jesus Christ!

1760 January 2 (Wednesday). Visited at Captain Fay’s on account of his little son Stephen’s illness. A Number of Neighbours were so kind as to come and sled Wood for me, as Some also went to cutting. Some went to cutting at the Ministerial Lot, viz., Mr. Zebulun Rice, Mr. Ebenezer Rice, Mr. Ebenezer Maynard, and Capt. Wood sent Samuel Lamb. And Capt. Wood and Adam Rice Sledded from thence 2 Load apiece. Mr. David Maynard also brought a Load from thence. Messrs. Joseph Grout, Moses Warrin, Samuel Hardy junior, Elijah and Constantine Hardy and Joseph Green junior went to Mr. Moses Brighams Lot (who gave the Wood). And Lt. Harrington, Messrs. Daniel Hardy, Phinehas Hardy, Daniel Forb., Edwards Whipple, Moses Brigham, Jonathan Grout Sledded 2 Load apiece—though Some of them brought their first Load from home, of their own wood. Also Mr. Grow, Daniel Adams, Jonathan Fay, and David Batheric brought each of them one Load from their own Homes. In all 23 Load to Day. Those that Eat with us were Capt. Wood, and Adam Rice, Messrs. Phinehas Hardy, Edwards Whipple, Jonathan Grout, Lt. Harrington, Messrs. Daniel Hardy, Daniel Forb., Daniel Adams, Edwards Whipple, David Batherick, Elijah Hardy, Joseph Green junior, Capt. Wood, Mr. Zebulun Rice and Adam Rice. A Singular Kindness! May God reward each of them! N.B. Mr. Bowman keeps School at Mr. Timothy Warrins. I send Alex and Breck to learn Latin, and Samuel to read. Billey having gone yesterday and got a large Piece of Timber to make Crooks for a sleigh, hews them.

1760 January 3 (Thursday). Four of my Boys go to school. [Note: Alexander, b. 17 Feb. 1747; Breck, b. 17 Feb. 1749; Samuel, b. 22 Aug. 1751; John, b. 21 July 1753.] Billy at work upon the Crooks part of the Day—till he cutts his Leg with an Addze, which takes him off. Dr. Crosby here, and brings a piece of Beef. He acquaints me with their Disputes in Shrewsbury about altering their Church Covenant.

1760 January 4 (Friday). My Wife is about her Bus’ness early and late, yet is very much indisposed and exercised with Rheumatic Pains in her Limbs and divers other Infirmitys. Mr. David Maynard dines here.

1760 January 5 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1760 January 6 (Sunday). Read Job 4 and Rom. 7. Preached on Eccl. 7.1. Widow Patience Woods dines with me. N.B. Cousen Maynard was at Meeting p.m.

1760 January 7 (Monday). Ride with Dr. Crosby in his whirrey to see Mrs. Hannah Forb. (wife of Lt. Thomas). Hear that Capt. Rolf came home last Saturday night. Am informed Lt. Holloway died Yesterday morning, about 2 o’Clock. N.B. Town meeting to call in Town Debts. I talked with Deacon Livermore, Mr. Nathan Ball, and divers others concerning the Towns Arrears to Me. Deacon Spoke of my now writing a Line and sending to the Town. I told him I had done that already Years ago and to no purpose—but if he pleased he might promote this, viz. that the Town appoint a Committee to Settle with me—for let the Account fall how it will, they ought in justice to settle with me, and not oblige me to sue ‘em to a Reckoning. Every one present thought this was reasonable, and as the Deacon went out of the Door, he promis’d to promote it. My wife and Billy p.m. Set out for Boston, designing as far as Framingham (Coll. Buckminster) to night. At Eve Mr. Timothy Warrin Treasurer comes to reckon but comes both unprepared and late—and therefore does nothing.

1760 January 8 (Tuesday). Deacon Tainter brings me an Horse to wait on me to Lt. Holloways Funeral. We dine at Mr. Martyns—who tells me he has received a Letter from Sutton, North precinct, to desire Assistance in Council. At the House of Mourning a great Concourse. Mr. Martyn prayed. The deceased was for some time, doubtless the principal [Stud?] in that Society. May the Death be so sanctifyed to me that I may be truely profited by it! At Eve Capt. Rolf visits me. Marryed Seth Gashitt to Anna Warrin. Omitted that Jonas Child being returned from Still-Water, where he was in the Batteau Bus’ness with Thomas, came to see me a.m.

1760 January 9 (Wednesday). Mr. Edmund Rice came with a Side of Cow Beef which I bought of him. One Quarter weighed 83, the other 80. It was not good enough, but I gave him 18d per pound. Paid him by Note to the Collector Ebenezer Maynard. Mr. Elijah Rice here and cutt the Beef out for me fit for salting. At Eve Mr. Welman of Sutton from Mendon—under great Difficultys—his opposing Brethren having Sent out for a Council of 11 Churches. He lodges here.

1760 January 10 (Thursday). Mr. Welman leaves us. May God grant him Light and Grace and Peace! P.M. Mr. Joseph Baker here to be Examined. Mrs. Joanna Fay here with her Relation; and Seems to have good Tokens of the Grace of God. To His Name be glory.

1760 January 11 (Friday). Mr. Abraham Brown going down to Watertown, I improve his friendliness to promote the Sale of my old place to his Brother Abijah. P.M. Mrs. Baker (Mr. Joseph’s Wife) here to be examined.

1760 January 12 (Saturday). My Wife and Billy came home from Boston, and dined with us. To God be the Glory, who has preserved them especially as my Wife had Two Falls from her Horse. N.B. My Watch is brought from Mr. Pecks, but it Stops and is useless again.

1760 January 13 (Sunday). Read Job 5 and Rom. 8.1 to 21. Preached a. and p.m. on Luk. 2.14.1 After sermon was a Contribution for Mr. Jonathan Morse of Shrewsbury. And admitted Mrs. Joanna Fay into the Church, before the Congregation, having first asked the Church whether they consented to my doing so, for redeeming the Time, for it would be sunsett if I dismissed the Congregation according to Custom. There was no Objection. N.B. Dr. Gott dined with us, as did Silas Biglow.

1760 January 14 (Monday). Deacon Tainter came (but without Deacon Bond though both were desired and both consented to) this Morning, to count the Money Collected yesterday. It amounted to £45.14.1 old Tenor. With Deacon came his son Bowker and his Cousen Kendall. This latter (it seems) visits the Widow Forbush. Mr. John Maynard here, dines with us. Wants to discourse with me about his wife. We had a great deal of Time together. I endeavor to perswade him to a reconciliation; but in Vain. Mr. Samuel Fay junior here p.m. He goes over all his Troubles and especially what he has Suffered from Lt. Elizer Rice, till he got into a great Heat, though I patiently heard—but he went away Somewhat Calm. N.B. Send my watch to Neighbour Barny Newton that he may carry it to Mr. Peck again, with a Letter also to him. N.B. Kennebeck Meeting at Hopkinton.

1760 January 15 (Tuesday). P.M. made a Visit to Squire Baker. And retiring with Young Mrs. Baker, at her Request, I went on with my Examination of her. N.B. Squire Bakers finding fault with Mr. Stoddars Book of the safety of appearing in the Righteousness of Christ; and with Mr. Harveys Meditation on the Tombs; and sells this last, right off, to his Cousen Moses who was there, and ventures far in making a Flourish.

1760 January 16 (Wednesday). Deacon Tainter came with his Whirrey and two Horses to wait on my Wife and me in Visiting the West Neighbourhood and part of Shrewsbury. We first went to Mr. Samuel Fay’s junior where we dined and Spent some Time. But no Word of the Difference. Thence to Mr. Gleasons, then to Lt. Eli’zer Rice, Dr. Crosbys, where we stayed to Tea, and left the Contribution Money for Mr. Jonathan Morse—then to both the Knowltons; to Mr. Gershom Brighams and Mr. Francis Whipples.

1760 January 17 (Thursday). Billy returns to Brookfield. Alex goes with him to Worcester with my mare. Capt. Wood invites me and my wife to dine at his House with Mr. Barrett and Dr. Wilson. We went. Dined well and pleasantly with those Gentlemen, and agree to Change with Mr. Barrett, Next Lords Day come sen’night. At Eve Mr. Joseph Baker here to be Examined, and went through what I apprehend is necessary. N.B. having received two of Willisons Sacramental Catechism, from Mr. Winter, let Mr. Baker have One.

1760 January 18 (Friday). At Eve Mr. Richard Kelly (long Kelly) and his son John, who was with my son Thomas at Still Water, are here and make Demands—first 2 Dollars being pay for a new Shirt he says Thomas was buryed in—Next, Twelve Shillings York Money, due from Thomas to one Chesnutt, and from Chesnutt to Kelly. I defer the payment until I can see Capt. McKeen.

1760 January 19 (Saturday). Mr. Daniel Forb. brings me what his son has brought me from Boston, viz. brass Knop[d?] Latches 15/ old Tenor apiece etc. etc.

1760 January 20 (Sunday). Read Job 6 and Rom. 8 from 21 to the End. Preached a. and p.m. on Song 6.4.2 The Widow of the late Mr. Noah Rice of Sutton and Dr. Crosbys Wife dined here. P.M. propounded Joseph Baker and his Wife.

1760 January 21 (Monday). Mr. Beeton puts on my New Latches. Deacon Tainter brings Artemas Bruce, and we had sent for Neighbour Hezekaih Pratt, to help us kill an Hog—weighed 11 Score and 7 pounds. At Eve Mrs. Prudence Hardy and her sister Rice of Sutton and her son Asahel, Supped here as did Deacon Tainter who not only killed, but cutt and salted up my Pork.

1760 January 22 (Tuesday). My Wife Walks to t’other House and to her Cousen Maynards. At Dr. Crosbys Request, I drew a Petition for him and Mr. Simon Maynard of Shrewsbury to present to the General Court.

1760 January 23 (Wednesday). Visited at Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s, his son Joseph being Sick of the long Fever and brought very low. N.B. he voided by Stool about 2 Quarts of bloody Matter last night in about an Hours time or less. Dr. Crosby receives the Petition I drew yesterday. Suse rides (Daniel Hows Horse) to Marlborough to get her black Gown made and tarrys there for it.

1760 January 24 (Thursday). My Son Baldwin came from Brookfield by Rutland—going to Boston: he dined here. I visit Lt. Forb.’s Wife—Thaddy Warrin and his Wife. Admonish them for their Fornication and call ‘em to Repentance. Visit Mr. Williams and widow Newton. Reckon with the last.

1760 January 25 (Friday). Attend to various necessary repairs etc. about the Barn. No Suse, but we attribute it to the Cold that she is not returned.

1760 January 26 (Saturday). Mr. Fessenden here—brings Heliodorus’s Ethiopic History, and the Court and City Register. I rode (on a Horse Capt. Wood Supplyed me with) to Hopkinton and dined at Mr. Barretts. Mr. Barrett rides to Westborough. No News has transpired from North Sutton—but I am very uneasy by reason of my Fears of what will be the unhappy Event. But the Lord is at the Head of His Church, and not only most Supremely, but most wisely rules all Things.

1760 January 27 (Sunday). A rainy, Stormy Day; yet a Considerable Congregation (at Hopkinton). I preached on Rom. 8.28 a. and p.m. May God Himself add His almighty Blessing! May I experience it in my own Soul! That I might have the Evidence of my Effectual Calling and that I may bring forth the genuine Fruit of it! But alas! What do I, upon Examination find in my Self! And what Reason to be deeply humbled before God! The storm was so great of Wind and Rain, that neither Mr. Barret nor I could return home. I therefore lodged again there.

1760 January 28 (Monday). Rose early and it being bright (though the roads very Slippery and Icy) I rode home to Breakfast. Went up to Capt. Woods, where Mr. B. was and lodged last night, and they had not yet been to Breakfast; therefore drank Tea with them. Waited on Mr. B. to See Mrs. Baker. He dined here. P.M. he returned to Hopkinton.

1760 January 29 (Tuesday). Exceeding Icy, Slippery and therefore dangerous travelling and my Mare lame yet. Mr. Forbush from Brookfield and dined here. P.M. he proceeds upon his Journey to Boston. N.B. He informs me that the Council last week at Sutton, were very thorow and effectual as to the Dismission of Mr. Wellman; and that he is accordingly dismissed from that people. He will have great Cause to reflect upon the Advice I have from Time to Time given him, that it would be best for him to remove from them, that Surely it would some time agoe, have been best for him to have asked a Dismission; and Especially presently after our last Council, in May last: when he might have gone well recommended. For I was fully persuaded he would not be able to stand what would follow if his adversarys Should themselves get a Council. O Lord how unsearchable are thy Judgments and thy Ways past finding out! N.B. I began Dr. Thomas Sherlocks Discourses at the Temple Church, having brought ‘em with me from Hopkinton Yesterday.

1760 January 30 (Wednesday). I rode to Worcester to wait upon Judge Chandler for Power of Administration of my son Thomas’s Effects. I called to see Capt. Allens wife—dined at Mr. Cushings, where were Messrs. Morse and Wellman. So that we had over the Sutton Affair. The Church there have dismissed him; 20 Votes against 19. That is including the Delinquents, or withdrawing members. Mr. Wellman accompanys me to Worcester. I put him in mind how much I have wished and how I have repeatedly told him of it, that he had asked a Dismission, when our Council gave a Result. Coll. Chandler not at home—is at Boston. Madam Chandler advised to write to him. After Tea (where our Company was young Dr. William Crawford and two young Ladies with him, besides Mrs. Pain) I complyed—and wrote also to Mr. Forb. at Boston to wait upon the Judge; and wrap up both to Esq. Pain who is there also. All to be sent per Coll. Gendley as Crawford tells me. It was a storm of snow and the Roads extremely Slippery, it was also late and against the invitation of Madam Chandler to lodge there, that I Stood along, and got to Mr. Cushings where I lodged. N.B. Mr. John Greenough schoolmaster, lodges there. Mr. Fessenden begins to keep School at Mr. Francis Whipples. Alexander and Breck go. They are in the Nomenclature.

1760 January 31 (Thursday). The Wind high and Sharp, the Snow blown about so that the Air is at times much filled: Besides the Slipperyness of the Roads. I ride to Capt. Allens: thence to Capt. Maynards where I dined. Got home in safety. To God be Glory! My Tabernacle also being in Peace. N.B. Mr. Stone came to see me Yesterday, and dined here. Last Night Mr. Prentice brought my Watch from Mr. Pecks at Boston. To Day Mr. Joseph Baker brought me his own and his Wife’s Relation.

1760 February 1 (Friday). [No entry.]

1760 February 2 (Saturday). Deacon Tainter brings me from Boston, framed, the City Hambourgh, and the River Elbe. Also a Letter from my eldest Brother inviting me and my wife to the Marriage of his Daughter Langdon to Mr. Joshua Winter. The Deacons Neece, Miss Molly Whitney came up with him.

1760 February 3 (Sunday). Read Job 7, Rom. [blot]. Preached on Song 6.4 a. and p.m. Dr. Crosby dined here. Admitted Joseph and Martha Baker into the Church. Read a paper of gratefull Return from Mr. Jonathan Morse for our Contribution, which he had received.

1760 February 4 (Monday). My Wife probably hurts her Health by her rising so much before Day. Yet I highly commend and am used to early rising. Dr. Moses Baker here p.m. Also 3 Young French Men. One of them Edward Robishow of Cambridge. At Eve young Mr. Tainter, his Wife and Miss Mary Whitney made us a visit, and Supped here. As did also the Widow How.

1760 February 5 (Tuesday). My Wife and I rode to Mr. Daniel Hardys to the Private Meeting. I preached on Mat. 24.12 to page 11, and though it was a rainy dark Day, yet there was a good Number attended. At Night Mr. Forb. of Brookfield comes from Boston. He had kept sabbath there. He preached for Mr. Eliot a.m., for Dr. Sewall p.m. For the latter he received 10£ old Tenor.

1760 February 6 (Wednesday). Mr. Forb. went to see his Father. P.M. he rode to his Aunt Holloways. Mr. Batherick and Mr. Daniel Adams came to work to make me a Sleigh. I rode to Mr. Whitneys to get some turned work and dined there. Visit LeBlanc. N.B. Delivered Mr. Forb. 2 Dollars on the 29th last, for my Son Ebenezer on Account of an Hat which Mr. Forb. bought for him.

1760 February 7 (Thursday). Mr. Batheric and Adams on the Sleigh. Sarah and Suse ride to Capt. Maynards. Mr. Fessenden having come to visit me last Evening, it was too dark and muddy for him to return to his Lodging. Therefore he tarried and lodged here. This morning goes to his School, but he Seems not to be well. Mr. Ebenezer Wheeler with his Wife’s Verses on the Death of his son.

1760 February 8 (Friday). Mr. Batherick and Adams on the Sleigh. My Boys who were sent to School, return home again and say their Master is Sick. My Workmen by 4 p.m. finish what they are to do in building the Sleigh—and ask 38/ apiece for their work.

1760 February 9 (Saturday). Master Fessenden sick o’Bed—therefore the Boys return again. P.M. Mr. Ebenezer Wheeler brings the Thursdays Paper Extraordinary by which it appears that there are Insurrections in Old France, urging Peace with England—and remarkable Speech from the British Throne, expressing the Goodness of God to the Nation in the Remarkable successes of the Last Year. D.G.

1760 February 10 (Sunday). Mr. Joseph Baker calls up my Wife at 3 o’Clock in the Morning to assist his Wife in her Labour. Read Job 8, Rom. 10. Preached a.m. on Song 6.10, carrying on the Subject of Last Lords Day. P.M. was not prepared with a New sermon by Means of the Interruptions and Avocations of the Last Week—(but may God forgive my Negligence through Jesus Christ!) On Consideration of the News from Europe preached on Deut. 32.15 with some Alterations. At Eve Merchant Rice sent for me to Visit him being Sick of a Fever. And I accordingly went. My Wife did not return till nigh midnight from Mrs. Baker.

1760 February 11 (Monday). Visit Mr. Solomon Baker and Wife. Meet Mrs. Abigail Whipple going to her Daughter Warrin (though not sent for), her Daughter having Sent for Women last night. And was delivered about Midnight, though her Mother had not heard of it. An Heart-breaking Thing to the Poor Parents! I visited Master Fessenden in his sickness, at Mr. Whipples—while I sat there Alex came for me, Mr. Stone being at our House. I therefore returned—he lodges here. Is in great Trouble by Reason of the Contentions in Southborough. Is so worn out that he read a paper to the Church there last Lords Day in which he proposed to ‘em to give up the principal Vote against the Young People who had not Submitted them Selves—And left it to Consideration and was come to advise with me about it. I could not but be surprized at Such a Proposal, especially so Suddenly.

1760 February 12 (Tuesday). Mr. Stone and I (at his Request), ride over to Mr. Martyns, and we dined there. Mr. Martyn as much surprized with and as much against the abovesaid Proposal as I. We advise him ra[ther?] to withdraw it—and to have a Church Meeting, or a Council than go into this Measure, as their Circumstances are. I visit Mr. Ebenezer Rice. Was with Silas Frost at Eve. Agree with him to get Posts, trim apple Trees. N.B. Mr. Solomon Baker p.m. trims in my old Orchard.

1760 February 13 (Wednesday). Alex and Breck thrash Rye one Day after another. Capt. Jonas Brigham here and acquaints me with Sorrowful Accident of his Brother Levi’s. About 9 this Morning his son Joseph fell from an Hay-Mow in the Barn; by which he dyed presently. The Lad was in his 13th year. May God sanctify it to those that are most nearly concerned and to all round about, but especially to poor thoughtless Youth! Mr. Francis Robishow and his sister Anne, Modesty Landre and one Dowsett, waited upon by Peter and Ammon Blanc, here. Mr. John Maynard brings me the Copy of his Wife’s Oath against him, taken before Judge Ward; but he (as he says) not notifyed.

1760 February 14 (Thursday). Read Dr. John Brown’s Estimate of the Manners and Principles of the Times. A piece, for Sentiment and Dichon, Seasonableness and Impartiality, highly deserving. Deacon Tainter fitting Thills to my sleigh. Mr. Joseph Briant junior from Stoneham. Mr. Robert Cook from Wrentham here, and renews his Desire that he may be recommended in Order to his Children being baptized—or if that may not be done, that his Wife may be, or that the Children may be baptized here, upon her Account.

1760 February 15 (Friday). Attended the Funeral of Joseph Brigham. Viewed the Place where the Lad had his Death’s Wound. He jumped from a Parcel of Hay on the South Scaffold of the Barn, upon the Mow in the Bay, which being hollow underneath by the pulling away Hay for the Cattle; and Hay having been taken away from the Top of the mow, it was become thin, he fell through, and his Head, most probably, Struck against the Ground cil before where the Cattle stood; his Head when his Father came to him being under the Cill, and Blood came out of his Right Ear. I gave Some Exhortation and Warning there, to Children and Youth. At night came my son Baldwin from Boston. He informs me that My Kinsman Winter was marryed last night to My Cousen Mary Langdon, Widow.

1760 February 16 (Saturday). Mr. Cook (Robert) was here again to Day, but he went off without Consenting to do any more than he had done heretofore to satisfie us concerning his Repentance for his Past Misconduct. My Son Baldwin sets out for Brookfield.

1760 February 17 (Sunday). Read Job 9, Rom. 11. Preached a. and p.m. on Prov. 4.10 on Occasion of the Late Sudden Death of Joseph Brigham. Master Fessenden and Mrs. Harrington dined here.

1760 February 18 (Monday). Visit Mr. Ebenezer Rice who remains Sick of a Fever, and in a Weak and low State, though it is thought there has been a Crisis and he is Somewhat better. As to his Spiritual State he is full of Resolutions; and hopes he Shall lead a very different Life from what he used to. His Son Joseph is much better.

1760 February 19 (Tuesday). I visited Mr. Joseph Greens Daughter Sarah who is in a languishing Condition. Prayed there. Mr. Abraham Knowlton there, With whom I have some Conversation concerning the Troubles in the Church of Shrewsbury to which he belongs, respecting Some additional Expressions to their Church’s Covenant. Wrote to Mr. Winter by Deacon Tainter. Visited old Mr. Fay and his Wife; and their son and his Wife being ill (as I heard), I the rather made a Visit to them, but Ensign Fay, though he was at the Barn, he did not come in. Was also to see Mrs. Baker in her New Circumstances.

1760 February 20 (Wednesday). All my Four Boys go to School, but it is so far (to Mr. Francis Whipples) that it is a great Trouble and Charge. My Leg remains sore and gives me trouble, though I go about currently with it.

1760 February 21 (Thursday). Mr. Simon Tainter and Mr. Benjamin Carter, of Sutton here, and acquaint me with their Present state. Their Parish having of late had a Meeting in which they dismissed (as they who did it supposed) Mr. Welman. My Wife p.m. visits young Mrs. Baker. Deacon Tainter returns from Boston with a Team. His Horses took a start in Framingham and he is wounded sorely in both his Leggs, by the Horses kicking him with their Corks.

1760 February 22 (Friday). [No entry.]

1760 February 23 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1760 February 24 (Sunday). Read Job 10, Rom. 12. Preached a. and p.m. on Isa. 55.1, former part. Mr. Fessenden dined here. Stopped the Brethren of the Church to read a Letter from the Church in Cold Spring Signed by Rev. Justus Forward. No Vote to Comply. Nor Reason given though the Church were repeatedly desired. Layed before them the Request of Robert Cook that his Wife might be recommended. This last was voted.

1760 February 25 (Monday). Visited Deacon Tainter and Saw his wounds dressed by Dr. Crosby. Dined there. P.M. Visited LeBlanc. Joseph LeBlanc and one Birmingham a Taylor who had been a soldier at Annapolis there. Mr. Thomas Frost here. Mr. Wellman dined here, but was gone when I returned home. School begins at Mr. Hezekiah How’s.

1760 February 26 (Tuesday). [No entry.]

1760 February 27 (Wednesday). [No entry.]

1760 February 28 (Thursday). Hananiah Parker here to talk with me about hiring my old Place.

1760 February 29 (Friday). Edward Robishow and Joseph Pillarine, two young French Men, dined here. P.M. Deacon Jason Biglow of Brookfield—the above mentioned Birmingham here.

1760 March 1 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1760 March 2 (Sunday). Read Job 11, Rom. 13. Text a. and p.m. Isa. 55.1, latter part. Ensign Benjamin Willard of Grafton, Mrs. Miles of Shrewsbury and old Mrs. Dunlop, dined here. And Ensign Willard came here after Meetings—would have shown me Some Letters he had writ to Somebody of our Church who had offended him, but I declined Seeing them. In the Evening read in Morning Exercise Vol. 1.

1760 March 3 (Monday). Mr. David Maynard killed a Pig for me—weighed about an 100. He dined with me. P.M. I prayed with the Town at their Meeting. N.B. At Eve I bought 208 Posts, the getting, of Samuel Fay tertius and Amasa Maynard—was forced to give £3.10.0 old Tenor by reason that Mr. John Martyn junior had offered £3.15.0. Collector Maynard delivered me 8 Dollars. N.B. Paid Mr. Francis Whitmore £6.5.0 Old Tenor for 20 lb. Flax.

1760 March 4 (Tuesday). Though it was rainy my Wife and I attended the Private Meeting at Mr. Jonah Warrins. I preached on Luk. 12.36.37 to page 12, adding Some of the Application. N.B. Mrs. Warrins Palsy increasing. Abner Warrin ill with Bleeding, and Some bad Symptoms.

1760 March 5 (Wednesday). Having received a Letter from Squire Pain, Probate Register, inclosing a Bond for me and Bondsmen to sign; I went up to Capt. Wood, and Squire Baker to Consult about it. While I was there Capt. Nathaniel Dwight of Cold Spring came here; and being Sent for by him I returned home. He urges my going to the Council to be there next Week—but I give him little or no Encouragement. At Eve Several of the Committee of the Precinct meet here to agree and Settle Accounts with me. But the rest not Coming nor the Treasurer Mr. Timothy Warrin; nothing was done.

1760 March 6 (Thursday). I walked over to t’other House. Began to admonish Mrs. Rice for her Intemperance—but she was presently in an Huff and left Me. Her Husband confirmed the Fact—and was afraid She would not take Reproof as She ought to. I rode down to Southborough. Dined at Mr. Stones. N.B. Southborough people in yet hotter Contests. The Disaffected increase by reason of Militia-Affairs going on Contrary to some who expected Commissions. They will have a Council. Poor Mr. Stone much to be pityed. May God Himself direct and support him and his! Hear a good Character of Mr. Hananiah Parker. Visit Mrs. Gourdeau. She Shews me a Number of Letters and other writings which she had by her, from Quebec and Louisbourg. I receive of her my French New Testament but don’t discern it has made any impression on her. N.B. In returning, had Some Discourse with Lt. Brigham about their Contention—but ‘twas Vain. Capt. Wood winnowed 7 1/2 Bushels of Rye for me.

1760 March 7 (Friday). Adjournment of Town Meeting, to finish choosing Officers. My wife to t’other House, and to see Mrs. Maynard. The Committee of the Precinct had appointed to meet again in order to settle with me, but some failed and the rest were unprepared—so did nothing. Am informed that Mr. William Williams of Weston dyed the Night before last. May God sanctify it to all; to the Family especially. May Ministers in a peculiar Manner make a right improvement of it! O that I might my Self!

1760 March 8 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1760 March 9 (Sunday). Read Job 12, Rom. 14. Preached a.m. on Isa. 55.2. P.M. although I had made some further preparations on the same Subject, yet by reason of the many Affairs of the last week I did not finish; but not being able conveniently to change, and the Election of Civil Officers having been in the Week past and Still being before the minds of the people, I Repeated a sermon on 2 Sam. 23.3—“ruling in the Fear of God,” from p. 24 to 28. And Some parts (by way of application) of Sermon on Tit. 3.1, page 41, 42. Miss Betty Johnson dined here, as did Joseph Willard, son of Ensign Benjamin Willard, who has Sent me a Letter, dated to Day, by this son.

1760 March 10 (Monday). By the Help of a Number of Neighbours hois[t]ed up my great Book Press into the West Chamber Window. P.M. prayed with the Precinct at their Meeting. N.B. Capt. Fay and Deacon Bond Singned [sic] with me my Bond to Judge Chandler, the Judge of Probates. Mr. Joseph Bruce and Mr. Moses Warrin were witnesses. Reckoned with Deacon Bond and gave him a Note to Mr. Ebenezer Maynard—20/6 Old Tenor less than his due.

1760 March 11 (Tuesday). My Wife and I rode in my Sleigh to see Deacon Tainter who, tis to be hoped, is in an healing Way. Dr. Crosby and Dr. Ball were there, and we saw both Leggs Dressed. N.B. We had Mr. Tainters Mare, and he put mine into his Team. We dined there. And through the Goodness of God we returned at Evening in Safety.

1760 March 12 (Wednesday). I rode up to Mr. Samuel Hardy’s and delivered his Son Thomas Hardy of Brookfield 10 Dollars to be delivered by him to my Son Ebenezer—and I received Said Thomas’s Receipt for the Same. P.M. preach’d my Lecture (had ask’d no body). Text 1 Cor. 15.25, repeating to the End of page 104. May God of his infinite Mercy and Goodness add His special Blessing! I thank God I was Somewhat mov’d; and my spirits impressed with those weighty Truths. Am astonished I am no more. O that God would [be] pleased to awaken me effectually—and all Others about me! O that we might have a true Sense of our horrible Enmity, and Rebellion against Him, and exposedness to His dreadful Wrath! And that by His mighty Power we might be Subdued and made to Submitt to Him intirely and for ever! Master Fessenden waits upon Cousen Maynard and her Child here, after Lecture. She tells me Mr. Williams of Weston was buryed yesterday.

1760 March 13 (Thursday). Cousen Daniel Needham came to See us. Has the Skin of a Catamount with him, which is a Sight. In the night Mr. Daniel Forbush came to the Door. He calls to bear a message from Mr. Hananiah Parker, that he will come Speedily to See me again about taking my Place. N.B. Mr. Forb.’s Discourse concerning the Power of Pastors and Brethren in Ecclesiastical Councils. N.B. he seemed Surprized at that Paragraph, Ch.10, S. 11 of the Platform “From the premises. So [no?] Church-Act can be consummated or perfected without the Consent of Both.”

1760 March 14 (Friday). My Kinsman Needham after Dinner pursues his Journey towards Boston. P.M. Maran Gourdeau, and his Brother Isaac with Victor Richard, another Neutral, here. Capt. Woods Mother and Miss Suse Newton make my Wife a Visit. One interruption after another prevents my close Application to my Preparations. Nigh ten at Night came Messrs. Belknap and Chamberlin (not thinking it so late) to make me a Visit. They inform that Mr. Hill is come to live in Capt. Storers House that was Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s.

1760 March 15 (Saturday). Mr. John Holland of North Sutton here at Breakfast with us. Tells me he is come from Cambridge, from Mr. Trowbridge the Kings Attorney, on Account of the great Tumults at the Meeting-House in North Sutton last Lords Day. N.B. He says Squire Goddard was got in to the same House just before him. Mr. Trowbridge advises ‘em to a mutual Council, and nominates one for ‘em. N.B. Mr. Holland leaves Me the Result of the late Council.

1760 March 16 (Sunday). Read Job 13, Rom. 15. Preached a.m. on 1 Cor. 11.24. P.M. on Isa. 55.2. Administered the Lord’s supper. In Deacon Tainters absence I spoke to Brother Francis Whipple to wait at the Lord’s Table. There dined with us Old Mrs. Rice (Capt. Woods mother), old Mrs. Tainter and Cousen Maynard. May God bless the Endeavors of this Day! I thank God for that measure of awakening which I felt—and for the lively sense of Death and Eternity in the Evening.

1760 March 17 (Monday). Catechized at the Meeting House a. and p.m. Mr. Fessenden here p.m. and at Evening. He helps transcribe the Sutton Result. N.B. Mr. Hananiah Parker and I enter into an Agreement that he shall take t’other place, and come in a Fortnight.

1760 March 18 (Tuesday). Lt. Jesse Brigham comes to inform me of the Death of Capt. Samuel Wood, of the North side, and that he is to be buryed next Thursday (by divine Leave), And it is the widow that sends this Message to me. I walked over to t’other House to acquaint Mr. Rice with my Agreement with Mr. Parker, and that he must come into the House in a fortnight. I walked round, and came home by Capt. Rolfs, who is still confined by his Disorders, and now especially by a bad sore, bred a little below his right Knee.

1760 March 19 (Wednesday). I rode up to Worcester to get a Letter of Administration from Judge Chandler. Met him on the Road. He tells me the News of the Dammage done to the Train of Artillery at Boston by Fire yesterday. He directs me to Mr. Pain, and tells me I need not at all concern myself about the [Contents?] of my Bond, the taking an Inventory etc. All was a mere [blot] or Formality etc. N.B. Mr. Cushing was present by his Chair and heard him. He added, I don’t desire any more of it while I live. I went to Worcester—gave my Bond to Mr. Pain the Register, and he gave me the Letter of Administration for which I paid him 7/ Lawfull Money. I went in to see his Mother while he prepared for me. I rode to Mr. Maccartys, but neither he nor his wife at home. As I returned I called at Mr. Nathaniel Adams’s, and at Mr. Cushings. The Latter bears a Message to me from Deacon Miles who has been at my House to request me to visit his Brother Joseph: Mrs. Miles being greatly distressed about her Husband; and wanted I should go and tarry over the Night with them. I went—and lodged there—the poor Man being in a very low Condition and greatly distressed, especially about his Eternal state and Condition.

1760 March 20 (Thursday). Broke fast at Deacon Miles’s (after conversing and Praying with his Brother). Mrs. Miles went over with me to the Deacon’s—and tells me she has reason to suspect her Husband is possessed by the Devil. In my way home Visited Sarah Green who has strangely fallen into a salivation, and it is now the 22nd Day of its working. Prayed with them, and made haste home to have my Wife go with me to Capt. Woods Funeral. We dined at Mr. Jonathan Bruce’s—with Old Mrs. Beeman at Table with us. At the House of Mourning Mr. Martyn prayed. May God please to assist us in improving this sorrowful Providence! N.B. The news reaches us of a great Fire in Boston this Morning at 3 o’Clock. My Wife and I went to Mr. Martyns from the Burying place. Mr. Fessenden there also. Called at Capt. Maynards. Mr. Daniel Forbush in the Night calls and confirms the sad Tidings of the Fire. May God Sanctify it to the sufferers and all round about! Fires have broke out there three Nights running. I wish it mayn’t be by some evil Instrumentality.

1760 March 21 (Friday). Further Accounts Still of the dreadful Conflagration in the Dear Place of my Birth. Blessed be the Lord who preserves Me and my Houses! Whilst I earnestly pray for the divine Compassion to the Destitute and Distressed! O what a Changing World this is! The Lord prepare me and mine for what He designs next!

1760 March 22 (Saturday). A.M. Capt. Wood sent for me to go up and See him; he having unhappily broke his Leg. He fell off from a Load of Wood, and was cast down under the Cart Wheel which went over his Leg; and he was wonderfully preserved from its going over his Body. I went up to See him—but returned home to Dinner. But (agreeable to my Engagement to him) when Mrs. Parker came, to Set the Bones, I went back to him again. We prayed previous to the Operation. Dr. Crosby there. It was late in the afternoon before I could leave him. N.B. Smoke rises in the East, and Some people fear there is Still destructive Fires in Boston.

1760 March 23 (Sunday). Read Job 14, Rom. 16. Preached a.m. on Isa. 55.3, former part. Granny Maynard dined here. P.M. preached on Jer. 17.27, using several parts of Sermon on Lev. 10.6, with Variations, according to the different Occasions. May God affect us with both his Word and providences, to our Saving Advantage!

1760 March 24 (Monday). Wrote to my Brother Samuel for a more distinct Account etc. Visit Capt. Wood and pray with him. Visit Mr. Benjamin Hill in Capt. Storers House.

1760 March 25 (Tuesday). Visit Deacon Forb. in his solitariness under his Blindness. Old Mrs. Woods lives with him. I dined there. N.B. Samuel McAllister and his wife, and Dinah Fay (Daughter of Mr. Gershom Fay) there also. Visit Mr. Daniel Forb. whose little son has put out one of his ankle Bones and is confined. Visit Ensign Miller, Monsieur LeBlanc. N.B. Deacon Tainter has rid to Capt. Woods. Mr. Edwards Whipple with me in returning home. N.B. Mr. Barrett called here, he having visited Capt. Wood etc. Dined and Spent the Afternoon there.

1760 March 21 (Friday). Further Accounts Still of the dreadful Conflagration in the Dear Place of my Birth. Blessed be the Lord who preserves Me and my Houses! Whilst I earnestly pray for the divine Compassion to the Destitute and Distressed! O what a Changing World this is! The Lord prepare me and mine for what He designs next!

P.M. I visited Capt. Wood, and pray with him. He is pained and pining in his Confinement.

1760 March 27 (Thursday). Mr. Smith came to see Me as I was preparing for the Catechizing. He dined with us, and tarried the afternoon. I was obliged to attend the Catechetical Exercise. Had about 40 Young Women and Girls that attended it. I delivered what I prepared and added some parts of sermon on Job 33.27, viz. from p. 2 to middle of p. 5. N.B. When we sung there were but few assisted. With Mr. Smith the Conversation both before and after Catechizing was upon Mr. Maccartys Conduct with the rest of the Council at Sutton, concerning Mr. Welman: and the great Increase of the Troubles in Southborough.

1760 March 28 (Friday). I visited Capt. Wood and prayed with him. Paid Mr. Beeton the full of his Demands to this Day by a note to the Collector Mr. Ebenezer Maynard. Dr. Crosby and Mr. Peter Butler here. The latter buys Several Things out of the shop, and pays me the money. But it proves an uncomfortable Hindrance to me.

1760 March 29 (Saturday). Mr. Fessenden here p.m.—at Tea etc.

1760 March 30 (Sunday). Read Job 15. 1 Cor. 1. Preached a.m. on Jer. 17.27, which had Length sufficient perhaps for two but I could not well divide it. I thought it much the best to deliver my whole preparation at once though I were obliged to use an old sermon in the afternoon. Which I did, viz. on 1 Cor. 15.25 from page 105. P.M. read the Governors Brief for a Contribution for the distressed in Boston. I read also (in public) a Paragraph in the Thursdays News Letter, informing to whom the Collections are to be sent.

1760 March 31 (Monday). Visited and prayed with Capt. Wood. Mrs. Parker there and dresses it. Ensign Benjamin Willard came home with me and dined here. As did Mr. Aaron Nurse who setts up in its place, a Leach Tub in form of an Hopper made in the forenoon by Mr. Zebulun Rice. P.M. Mr. Cushing is here, and tells me he can lend me £200 (old Tenor). N.B. Alexander and Breck go mid-afternoon with Capt. Woods Oxen and Cart, to the ministerial Lot, and bring 30 Posts—but I was much concerned for them lest mischief Should befall them and walked to Capt. Rolfs. However, they returned well, through the Goodness of God. N.B. I sent this Morning by Mr. Edwards Whipple, to Mrs. Mary Jackson and son, the full of their Account against my late son Thomas; being £1.6.3.3 L.M. or £9.17.4 old Tenor.

1760 April 1 (Tuesday). The Private Meeting at Mr. Bradish’s but I can’t attend it. Deacon Tainter dines here, and goes to it. N.B. he kindly Serves me in putting a New Handle to my Spade. Mr. Aaron Nurse kills a Pig for me of 110 pound. He also hoops for me Several Tubbs—an Hogshead etc. Neighbour Williams here to desire me to visit his Son Eleazar who is very ill of a Pleuretic Fever. I went and found he was in a Dangerous State. Prayed with him—admonished and warned him. N.B. Mr. Whipple comes from Boston, at Night, and brings Letters from my Brother.

1760 April 2 (Wednesday). In the Morning visited Mr. Williams again. He grows worse. I prayed with him. Dr. Crosby there. He blooded him yesterday—took another Pint this morning. Thinks his Case extremely hazzardous. I am deeply concerned for him—he is partly delirious. May God most gracious extend Mercy and Compassion! Last Night was twelve Months his only sister, Mrs. Dorothy Maynard dyed. P.M. Mrs. Parminter, heretofore Bethiah Tyler, was here, in her Way to her Brother Tinneys. She Seems a Miracle of Gods power and Goodness. Master Fessenden and Cousen Maynard drink Tea here. Mr. Stone sends a Line to desire me to change next sabbath, but I am pre-engaged to Mr. Martyn.

1760 April 3 (Thursday). Public Fast. Preached a.m. on Isa. 64.9. P.M. I formed an Exercise partly out of sermon on Dan. 4.27. And on Account of the Contribution for the sufferers by the late Fire in Boston, I used part of Sermon on Lev. 10.6. N.B. I was up early in the Morning and visited Neighbour Eleazar Williams, who I find is delirious, and there can be but little hope. I prayed there. At Noon a Message to me was that he was alive and that was all. N.B. he expired before Meeting was done. Such is the Will of God! N.B. We contributed as abovesaid. May God accept the Offering!

1760 April 4 (Friday). I rode up to Mr. Joseph Greens to see their Daughter and prayed there. Dr. Crosby came and delivered me £200 old Tenor which I have hired of Rev. Cushing. I bought a Yearling steer of Mr. Green, for which I am to give him 4 Dollars. After Dinner I rode to Marlborough. Paid 50£ old Tenor to Ensign Daniel Ward and took up a Note I had given his wife. And 45£ upon another and took it up paying the Interest of both; Which was 3£. Visit Mrs. Speakman. Return the 1st vol. of Dean Moss’s sermon and she offers me the 2d which I took. Visit Mr. Smith and lodged there. The Deacons were here and count the money which was gathered yesterday, which is 60£ old Tenor.

1760 April 5 (Saturday). Went to Mr. Ephraim How to pay him, but he chose I Should keep his money. I payed him the Interest in full to the Day of the full year. Rode up to the Funeral of Mr. Eleazar Williams. A sore loss!

1760 April 6 (Sunday). Preached at the North End on Joh. 14.6. Mr. Martyn here on Isa. 45.22 and on Luk. 17.21. We each returned at Eve.

1760 April 7 (Monday). Visit Capt. Wood and prayed with him. Payed Widow Newton £10 and the Interest and took up one of my Notes to her. And Paid Neighbour Frost Interest of 50£. He fired our 3 common Chimneys.

1760 April 8 (Tuesday). Neighbour Frost and his Brother Silas mend Fence. Visit Deacon Forb.: at his Request, he being in Some Difficulty with regard to what was Said last visit about Capt. John Maynard and Seth Rices Discourse of his (the Deacons) promise formerly that the Sutton Corner would not influence this Town in the Affair of the moving the meeting House. But I told him I did not meddle with it nor break my Affection to him. We parted in Love. Mr. Hananiah Parker brought his Family into my other House. Received a Letter from Mr. Stone acquainting me with the appointment of a Council, by his disquieted Neighbours and his Desire that I and Mr. Martyn would be with him at that time. [Marginal notation: N.B. Thomas Prentice Esq. dyed at Lexington about the 2d of this Month.]

1760 April 9 (Wednesday). Training. Lt. Uriah Brigham here and dined with us. I prayed with the Company. Capt. David Brewer here to endeavor to enlist men. Mr. Barrett called here. He had visited Capt. Wood. Mr. Hezekiah Coollidge (poor man!) and Master Fessenden, here. Have begun to Garden.

1760 April 10 (Thursday). I rode over to Mr. Isaac Pratts to get him to make me a pair of Leather Breeches of a large skin I bought of Mr. Solomon Rice, and which his Father dressed. Mr. Welman, going to get another Council, here and dined with me. N.B. had Neighbour Barny Newtons Oxen, and Capt. Woods to plough stubble. Samuel Lamb (Capt. Woods young man) helps Alexander in it. Sarah keeps School in that which was Thomas’s Shop. P.M. I went over to t’other House—what with the Horses Mr. Rice has taken and the Horse, Cattle and Sheep which Mr. Parker has brought my Barn is over stocked and my Hay flies apace. In returning home Saw at Mrs. Nurse’s one that calls her self an English Captive, and her name Molly Hubbard—who was taken from No. 4 when she was 5 years old and had been among the French and Indians 15 Year. She says She was brought from Quebeck 4 months agoe. Wants to find her uncle Joseph Hubbard.

1760 April 11 (Friday). The said Molly was here. I further interrogated her—and grow doubtfull concerning her. P.M. Mr. Thaddy Warrin and his Wife here to be Examined.

1760 April 12 (Saturday). Have been So taken off and disappointed about getting my necessary Spring work done, and by other Hindrances that I could not fully prepare my sermons. Was some what interrupted by a very unexpected and undeserved Letter from Mr. Ebenezer Rice. Wrote some Reply but could not send it, my Boys being from home till Evening.

1760 April 13 (Sunday). In obedience to Mat. 5.23.24 I sent Breck early in the Morning with a brief Line to Mr. Ebenezer Rice. Read Job 16 and 1 Cor. 2. Preached a.m. on Isa. 55.3, latter part. P.M. Repeated on 1 Cor. 15.26, which was the more seasonable on Consideration of the late Death of Mr. Eleazar Williams, his Father and widow being greatly bowed down under that mournful Bereavement. Mr. Ithamar Bellows’s wife dined with us. At Eve read in the Family the sermon in the morning Exercise by Mr. Adams, on Hell—and was much impressed with what he says of the Extremity and Eternity of the Punishments of the Damned, together with the Confirmation thereof. May God be pleased to bless it for saving Good!

1760 April 14 (Monday). In the morning I made a visit to Mr. Ebenezer Rice, and endeavored to compose every Disquietment and lay aside all Resentments. Mr. Parker there ploughing. Visited at Neighbour Pratts and made a late Breakfast there. Mr. Francis Whipple came to me and Master Fessenden with him to ask me for my late sons Shop to keep School in; and that he might board at our House. Mr. Whipple tells me plainly that the Town will not give any more than 30/ old Tenor per week and that it is not probable it will be paid till next March. Mr. Fessenden accordingly has Lodging here. My Daughter Sarah had her School there a.m. Mr. Fessenden having dined here, kept p.m. P.M. I visited old Mr. Bradish and at his Desire, prayed with him. At Eve Master and I made a visit to sorrowful Neighbour Williams and his Daughter in Law. At their Request prayed with them. N.B. Mr. Ebenezer Williams brought me 32 Posts which Mr. Ebenezer Rice got for me last Year at the Ministerial Lot and 10 or 11 New ones got out by Amasa Maynard. And Mr. Nathan Maynard brought 27 Posts which Silas Frost got out this Year.

1760 April 15 (Tuesday). So rainy I am prevented going to Ministers Meeting at Wor’ster but had expectation to have gone to Southborough, apprehending there was to be a Council there to Day and therefore wrote to Mr. Cushing and Mr. Maccarty of it—but I was mistaken. It is to be tomorrow. The Lord be with his Servants at their Meeting, though I be detained from it! N.B. Mr. Moses Twitchell here and reckons with me, and he thinks I owe him 13/6 old Tenor. And he asks me to give him a Note to the Collector of 9£ old Tenor and I do it, he promising to work for me in Hay Time. Near Night I rode down to Messrs. Daniel and Timothy Warrins.

1760 April 16 (Wednesday). Pursuant to Mr. Stone’s Letter I rode to Southborough to be with my Brother Stone, in this Day of Adversity, when he expects there will be an Ecclesiastical Council sit at the Widow Bents to Day. Mr. Smith and I dined there. But no Council came. I lodged there also. Mr. Moses Twitchell setts up Fence beyond the Orchard.

1760 April 17 (Thursday). No Council still. I took leave. I went to widow Bents about her Meadow. At Mr. Gourdeau’s. Returned home. At Mr. Timothy Warrins. P.M. he sends his son Joseph and a Yoke of Oxen to plough and harrow in order to sow spring Rye.

1760 April 18 (Friday). Thaddeus Warrin here again. Mr. Williams sadler here and undertakes several Pieces of Work—Baggs, Sidesaddle etc. Views my late sons Tools, Stock etc. And buys several Things. Benjamin Warrin with a yoke of Cattle p.m. to harrow etc.

1760 April 19 (Saturday). Two Twitchells digg stones for Wall north of the Orchard. Mrs. Abigail Warrin here again and examined. Says her Parents are reconciled.

1760 April 20 (Sunday). Read Job 17 and 1 Cor. 3. Preached a. and p.m. on Isa. 55.3, that (middle) Clause—“and I will make an Everlasting Covenant with you.” Propounded Thaddeus and Abigail Warrin in order to their Humilliation and owning the Covenant. May the Lord bless His Word and Ordinances for Saving Good! Letter from Ebenezer about his poor little Boy.

1760 April 21 (Monday). Two Twitchells build Wall for me, north of the Orchard from the Pine Tree. They accomplish about half a Dozen Rod. Jacob Rice junior comes to School (learning Latin) and boards here. I was at the Raising of a South End and West Side to his House. Sung 2 Stanzas of Ps. 127.

1760 April 22 (Tuesday). Visited Isaac Miller in his Languishment. He was removed this Day to his Fathers, whither I went—and prayed with him. Ensign went out with me and said, That he had asked my Advice about his marrying, and Seeing I had not Seen Cause to give it, they had taken the Liberty to go on without. And now it was too late to say any Thing about That. But he hoped I would come and marry ‘em when they were got ready. I told him I did not know but I must go a journey about that Time to see my Grandson that is very ill. From thence I went to the raising of Mr. Jonathan Fays great Barn. Mr. Fessenden there, and returned home with me at Night. N.B. Sung part of Ps. 112.

1760 April 23 (Wednesday). Mr. Solomon Rice of Hardwick here. Of him I had a Deer Skin price 7£ old Tenor in the Hair. Which I paid him. Mr. John Butler here. He buys a Variety of Things out of the Shop, to the value of 4£ old Tenor. At Eve I made Capt. Wood a visit and prayed with him.

1760 April 24 (Thursday). Mr. Fessenden and I walked at Noon to visit Mr. Jonah Warrin who I understood is Sick. But find he is better and gone from Home. But his Wife grows worse of her Palsie. P.M. William Bowman from Mr. Chaddock of Brookfield with two Notes given by my son Thomas for Leather. Capt. Rolf has offered to take the Leather and take up the Notes—which I consented to, and therefore do go with William to Capt. Rolf’s that he may do it. He accordingly tells me he will—and that he will write to Mr. Chaddock about it.

1760 April 25 (Friday). A Warm fine Day. We have Mr. Parkers Oxen to plough. Mr. Nurse sows Oats for me. N.B. Mr. Beatons sets a Fire which unhappily runs and burns up part of the Fence between him and Neighbour Barnabas Newton. But Some Number of Hands gather together and get the mastery of it. To God be Glory! At the Island, Alex and Breck having got Mr. Parkers Oxen, ploughed in 3 Bushel of Oates—Sown by Mr. Aaron Nurse. At Eve reckoned with Deacon Tainter and paid all; and for 4 Load of Wood which are not yet brought.

1760 April 26 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1760 April 27 (Sunday). Read Job 18 and 1 Cor. 4. Preached on Isa. 55.3, latter part. Lt. Townshend of Hopkinton dined here—a Number of Hopkinton people at our meeting, Mr. Barrett being hurt by a Fall from his Horse in Boston and not returned home. Thaddeus Warrin and his wife restored to Charity, owned the Covenant and had their Child Baptized. At Evening Family prayer, Master Fessenden prayed.

1760 April 28 (Monday). Mr. Daniel Forb. here and wants my Chair to carry his lame little son Simon to Dr. Kitteridge Bone-setter at Andover and I consent. He takes it. He will send his son and Team to help me. I ride out to visit in the South west and the Border of Upton. Dined at Mr. Moses Warrins. Visit Mr. Elijah Rice’s Wife who is languishing. Was at Mr. Solomon Millers. Lieut. Harringtons. LeBlanc’s. When I return many Gentlemen are riding (as we conceive) to Sutton. Mr. Wellman and his Brethren have called a Council there to sit tomorrow.

1760 April 29 (Tuesday). By Vertue of a Letter from Mr. Stone I rode to Southborough; a Council, called by Capt. Taylor and others, consisting of Three Churches, Cambridge first Church, the Churches in Watertown and Charleston, sits there. Dined at Mr. Stones. I was at the public Hearing a. and p.m. N.B. Messrs. Martyn and Smith, Thatcher and Woodward, there with Mr. Stone. N.B. Elisha Forbush with a Yoke of Cattle helps in getting out our Muck and ploughing the orchard. Mr. Tainter also (by my Desire) improved the opportunity to bring 60 Rails for me which are laid at the Island to fence the Lane by Capt. Maynards Meadow.

1760 April 30 (Wednesday). Lodged at Mr. Stones last night. The Councils Result was published—very Contr. to the Result of the former Council. N.B. Discourse with Mr. Appleton and with Judge Danforth. Dine at Mr. Stones. Talk with Mr. John Parker and Joshua Newton. Some Number of Ministers at Mr. Stones, viz. Mr. Cushing, Mr. Frink, Mr. Bridge of Framingham there, besides the above mentioned. Master Fessenden came. I rode home with him. Mr. Forb. and Daughter Baldwin here from Brookfield. Hear that my Grandson Ebenezer is better. Glory to God!

1760 May 1 (Thursday). Mr. Forb. carrys my son Samuel to Brookfield to help his Brother Ebenezer. Mr. Fessenden obtains an Horse at Capt. Maynards to go with my Daughter Baldwin, who is still weakly, to Boston: and they Sett out. Mr. Martyn comes, dines and preaches for me. On Ps. 118.22.23. After Lecture Jabez Ward Esq. and Capt. Maynard and his wife here. Mr. Daniel Forb. is returned with his son, and my Chair. Deacon Tainter receives of me the Contribution Money for Boston. £0.2.2 Old Tenor.

1760 May 2 (Friday). Mr. Gardner of Stow and his Delegates, returning from the Council at Sutton, here and read their Result; which again setts Mr. Welman upon his Leggs. That is so far as their Influence can extend. Afterwards Mr. Hall called here in his Journey home. N.B. I write by him to Coll. Hazzletine about my Son Baldwins Note, given him. N.B. In the Evening Deacon Bradish.

1760 May 3 (Saturday). Master Fessenden returns from Boston and Cambridge. Tells me my Daughter Baldwin got down well, but that my good sister Barret has been much Confined and in a poor state through the Winter.

1760 May 4 (Sunday). Read Job 19 and 1 Cor. 5. Preached a. and p.m. on Isa. 55.3, latter part. Administered the Lord’s Supper. N.B. Young Mr. Barrett and his Wife here, their Father being still at Boston. They dined with us, as did Cousen Maynard. N.B. Master Fessenden prayed at Eve in the Family.

1760 May 5 (Monday). A.M. I was over at t’other House. Renewed Bounds with Mr. Ebenezer Maynard on the East to North of his Line. Mr. Searl of Stoneham dined here, as he journeys to Connecticut. P.M. I rode to Ensign Millers and marryed him to the Widow Willis of Hopkinton. Mr. Tainter brings a Team p.m. to harrow my Field at the Island. He leaves his Boy with Alex to do it and they do it accordingly. Mr. Tainter went to a Kennebeck Meeting at Capt. Wood.

1760 May 6 (Tuesday). Sarah goes to Marlborough. P.M. preached at Capt. Woods on 1 Sam. 4.13. Those words—“his Heart trembled for the Ark of God.” After Meeting my wife and I, Mr. Fessenden, Jacob Rice, and my Boys went to the raising of Mr. David Maynards Additions to his House.

1760 May 7 (Wednesday). Coll. Jones of Hopkinton and his Wife, and Mr. Bailie and his Wife here. Mr. Bird of New Haven bears a Message to me from Mr. Pierpont to Send his Wife’s Diary—but I desire ‘em till Mr. Birds Return through Worcester. N.B. Visit Lt. Thomas Forbush and old Capt. Forbush.

1760 May 8 (Thursday). I marry Mr. Thomas Frost to Miss Ruhamah Pratt here at my House. Alex and Breck furrow the Island Field for planting. I have finished London Magazine for (and the 12 preceeding till) August last. Was at Mr. Williams’s at Eve.

1760 May 9 (Friday). Mr. Batherick carts Posts from the Ministerial Lot. Mr. Jabez Snow here. Espouses Southborough Cause. Dr. John Wright, Mr. Fessenden’s Brother in Law, here. And lodges here. His Horse to Capt. Woods.

1760 May 10 (Saturday). Dr. Crosby visits my Wife, having a Lame Leg. Dr. Wright to Rutland.

1760 May 11 (Sunday). Read Job 20, 1 Cor. 6. Preached a.m. on 2 Samuel 23.5 and p.m. on Eccl. 11.9, repeating what I delivered nigh 28 years agoe at Lecture to young People but with some Additions and Alterations. N.B. Master Bowman dined here. May God bless my Endeavors with both old and young! But especially may I have Grace to improve the Admonitions and Instructions of the divine Word for the Everlasting advantage of my own soul! Mr. Fessenden prays at Evening.

1760 May 12 (Monday). I walk till I am weary to get some Ox Work to plough in order to planting my Orchard. Was at Mr. Warrins but he was not at home. I went there the rather because of Visiting Mrs. Warrin who grows worse. Went to Zebulun Rices. Sent to Barney Newtons in Vain. I went to Capt. Woods and reckoned with him. Gave him a Note for the whole. P.M. I visited Mr. Jacob Amsden and Lt. Bruce. Alexander ploughed a little of the orchard with Capt. Woods Oxen and broke the Beam.

1760 May 13 (Tuesday). This Morning not well—stiff Neck and am pierced through with the wind. Mr. Williams brings 100 Rails to the New Pasture. My illness greatly increases—keep close. Mr. Hale of Brookfield with his Brother Moses’s Widow. They lodge here but I can’t see ‘em to Night. Capt. Wood keeps their Horses. Have a Night of Pain and Trouble!

1760 May 14 (Wednesday). In a Poor, pained Condition. Put on a Blister. Fear it is Rheumatism that has sized the Vertebers at my Neck. See Mrs. Hale (my wife’s Kinswoman) and grieve with her in her sorrows. They leave us to go to Haverhil. Am so ill I can’t either dine or attend Devotions with my Family. P.M. Cousen Maynard here. Little of planting to Day. Only the Boys plough this afternoon with Capt. Woods Oxen.

1760 May 15 (Thursday). Took a spoonfull of Batemans Drops for my Rheumatism. Had a more comfortable Night and Morning than last. Blessed be God! Yet I have a poor Day of it, in general. Read a great Part of the Journals of the House of Representatives, though I could not bend closer Studies. My Wife’s Leg has been sore for some Time; is now grown tedious. God prepare for His holy Will! My sons go about in Vain to get an Horse to furrow out our remaining Ground—till Mrs. Tainter (Benjamins Wife) rode here for this End that their Horse might plough for me. She dines here, and my sons plough furrowing out and finishing our planting of Indian Corn. A few Beans, Peas etc. At night comes Dr. Wright from Rutland—and lodges here.

1760 May 16 (Friday). Dr. Wright leaves us for Cambridge. N.B. Mr. Alexander Clayton of Upton comes in the Name for Esq. Hazzletine for money due to him from Mr. Baldwin. I delivered Clayton 4 Johannes, and wrote it on the Back of the Note: and which he signed attesting. As for me I feel but Weak, Sick and Pained. Yet dined with my Family, and hope I am growing better. My sons finish planting—except the planting of little Beans.

1760 May 17 (Saturday). Had an uneasy, painful Night, by reason of my Head and Neck Still greatly disordered. Dont pretend to prepare for the Sabbath. Mr. E. Rice here a.m. tells me he Shall soon move out of my House. P.M. Jacob Rice’s Brother is come for him; and he leaves us. I accept of Two Dollars for nigh a months Board. Capt. Wood kindly makes me a Visit. My Wife uses an Ironing Box on my Neck—at the advice of Dr. Wright.

1760 May 18 (Sunday). The Ironing my Wife used yesterday seemed to asswage the Pain for a little while, but I had a painfull and uneasy Night. Yet waked not very ill. This Morning was misty—too heavy Air for me to go abroad in. Mr. Fessenden went to the North End Meeting—he carryed Sarah. Alexander went there on Foot. I did not feel So ill but that I could perform Some service—but I did not conceive there would be any prudence in going to the Meeting House. Such as came therefore gathered here and I held a Meeting a. and p.m. in my House, repeating Several Sermons on 1 Sam. 4.22. Which O that it might please God to bless for our universal Awakening—but especially for my own! N.B. Deacon Tainter informs me from Mr. James Fay, that his Wife lately dyed—of bilious Cholick. And that She dyed gloriously.

1760 May 19 (Monday). Am easier, but fainter. P.M. Mr. William Winter and his Daughter came to See us. And lodged here. My Wife much out of Health—so is Sarah but is now revived by Seeing Miss Nabby Winter. Mr. Winter brings sorrowful News concerning Quebeck. Mr. Bird of N.H. called at the Door for the papers etc. if they were here.

1760 May 20 (Tuesday). Though it be rainy yet after Dinner Mr. Winter and Daughter leave us, to go to Worcester. At Eve Messrs. Whitney and Zebulun Rice here. N.B. Old Joseph Robishow and his Wife here and dined with us.

1760 May 21 (Wednesday). Engaged in reviewing, and in transcribing Some parts of my Sermon on Jer. 3.15. My Boys go to School as they can.

1760 May 22 (Thursday). Capt. Wood goes at my Request to Mr. Parkers about his Sheep—to view and Trade with him for some of them if he can. Town Meeting to choose a Representative—they choose Capt. Bezaleel Eager. Engaged in my study as yesterday. David White Setts up Fence and Clears.

1760 May 23 (Friday). Mr. Fessenden leaves us and goes to Cambridge—After I had rid over to Mr. Parker—about his sheep—Mr. Ebenezer Rice begs a fortnight longer in the House—and I was at Capt. Maynards. At Night was at Capt. Woods Still to consult about Parkers Sheep because he asks so much for them. But was in the main of the Day sermonizing.

1760 May 24 (Saturday). Was forced out in the morning to get Rails and Carting—to close my Pasture north of the Orchard. At Mr. Morse’s, with Mr. Warrin and Deacon Bond.

1760 May 25 (Sunday). Read a.m. on Job 21. Preached a.m. on Prov. 11.30, former part. P.M. omitted reading. Preached on Prov. 11.30, latter part, and gave Solemn Warning to Heads of Familys, Tavern keepers and to Youth with regard to Election Recreations. Propounded Mrs. Chase (the Doctors Wife) and acquainted the Congregation that considering the State of my own Health, and the State of Things with my Relatives (at Boston; N.B. Mr. Artemas Bruce bore a Message at noon from my Brother Samuel requesting it of me that I would Spend next Sabbath with them) I know not whether I should return to them the next Lords Day. Desired therefore that Such of them as were nigh to other parishes would attend there; and such as Could not would meet here and serve God as He Should enable them etc. etc.

1760 May 26 (Monday). Mr. Ebenezer Maynard pays me in Notes and money £79.4.7 Old Tenor. Set out on my Journey to Boston. Dined at Southborough. Mrs. Prince there. Called at Mr. Bridge’s. Arrived at Lieut. Whitneys at Watertown at Eve, and lodged there.

1760 May 27 (Tuesday). To Cambridge. Visit Brother Champney. Sister Barrett feebly crawls about after much Sickness. Master Fessenden had invited me Strongly to their House, but was gone a Fishing both he and his Brother Wright. Proceeded to Boston. Dined at Mr. Proctors. P.M. at Mr. Eliots. Mr. Balch being come to Town my mind is more easy. Put up my Horse at Brother Samuels and lodged there with Mr. Gay of Hingham.

1760 May 28 (Wednesday). Viewed the sorrowfull Ruins. Mr. Dunbar preached the Election Sermon on 2 Chron. 15.1.2. Dined in Fanuel Hall. P.M. at my Daughter Baldwin lodges at Dr. Wheats. Dr. Sewals. Mr. Appleton chosen Moderator of the Convention and prayed. I was chosen to preach to the Convention next Year. Mr. Mather 2d. I went to See Coll. Handfield and his Lady who received and treated me with much respect. Retired and lodged at my Kinsman Winters and Mr. Davis with me. N.B. Mr. Gay of Hingham lodges at Brother Samuels as do a considerable Number more of different Sorts of Gentlemen.

1760 May 29 (Thursday). Attend the Convention. The scribe reads an Encouraging Letter from Providence, concerning their doing more than ever towards supporting the Gospel among them. Mr. Balch of Bradford preached on 2 Cor. 1.12. The Contribution was 330£ Old Tenor. To which add a Guinea from Governor Dummer. 340-10/ Old Tenor. Yet the Assembly was remarkably thin. I dined at Mr. Mathers. P.M. at Mr. Eliots. Preached at Brother Williams in the Eve on 2 Cor. 4.16 and lodged there.

1760 May 30 (Friday). A Number of Gentlemen and Ladies went out in a Convenient Boat, and invited Me to go with them which I chearfully complyed with. The Chief of the Company were Dr. Wheat and his wife, Young Dr. and his Wife, Mr. Brown (young Doctors Father in Law) and his wife, Mr. William Winter, his wife and Daughter; Mr. Joshua Winter and his wife, Mrs. Gott, Capt. Baldwin and Lucy; with a Number of younger Persons. Sat out from Long Wharf (well provided) about 11 a.m. Sailed down below the Light House. N.B. an evil Pamphlet o’board which libells Governor Pownal (as it is conceived) under the Name of Sir Thomas Brazen: To the great Grief of all Serious people. Came to an Ankor. Caught 3 or Four Cod—for a Chowder. Went o’Shore and viewed the Light House. Drank Tea at the House Keepers. Re-embarked. Eat our Chowder o’board in good order. Returned and landed just after Nine at Eve: having Met with no remarkable Evil. To God be Glory. Lodged at Mr. Joshua Winters. Nor would the Company Suffer me to bear any of the Charge.

1760 May 31 (Saturday). Mr. Maccarty is the Means of Mr. Byles’s engaging Me to preach for him tomorrow. Dined at Deacon Simsons. Retire to Brother Samuels p.m. and lodge there. My Eyes and Heart are to the glorious God for Preparation.

1760 June 1 (Sunday). In the Morning was greatly Surprized with the Trucks drove about the Streets. I found it was by Authority to carry Stores to load the Transports going to Quebec. In the forenoon preached for Mr. Byles on Gal. 1.15.16, former part of each, and I attended the Communion there. Dined at Mr. William Winters. Preached for Mr. Eliot p.m. on Heb. 11.16. Supped at Mr. Eliots. Lodged at Brother Samuels (where lodges also Deacon Sayword of York. A man of Sense, Piety and Worth, as well as Wealth).

1760 June 2 (Monday). I attended the Artillery Election Sermon (which I have not had Opportunity to do for upwards of 20 Years). Mr. Sherman of Woburn preached on Ps. 149.6. I din’d at Capt. Storers: where also dined Coll. Serjeant and Rev. Messrs. Smith of Falmouth, Mr. Prentice of Charlestown, and Mr. Robie of Lyn. P.M. Mr. Procter went with me to visit Master Holbrook and his wife (who was Bekky Burroughs) but it was in Vain; they were out of Town. N.B. Mr. Ellis Wilson, Brazier (who was one of those who went to the North Latin School when I did), though he was well and walking about last Saturday, dyed this Morning. May God affect me with it! At Night Visit Mr. J. Breck. Was also at Brother Williams and lodged there.

1760 June 3 (Tuesday). Governor Pownall takes leave, and embarks. I was in Kings Street at the Time of it and Saw the procession—but no Ministers were in it. I dined at Dr. Wheats where was my Daughter Baldwin. At Mr. Johonnots; and was treated very Courteously. Also at Dr. Mayhews, but Dr. Chauncy was there and rendered the visit very uncomfortable by his Coarseness and unhandsome Conduct. I Attempted another Visit at Coll. Handfields, but they were not at Home. I lodged at my Kinsman Winters, there being Much Company at Brother Samuels, and I chose stillness.

1760 June 4 (Wednesday). Break fast and pray at Mr. William Winters (at their repeated Request and Invitation). Mr. Maccarty there also. Having dispatched what Bus’ness I could and visited my Friends and Relatives as I had Time (particularly this forenoon visited my poor Kinswoman Hearsy in her dolefull Captivity with Such an Husband), I dined at Mr. Byles’s—who with his Children entertained me with much Respect. I took Leave of Lucy at Dr. Wheats and rode to Watertown just before night. Lodged at Brother Harringtons. N.B. His Daughter Patty lately marryed.

1760 June 5 (Thursday). A rainy Day, yet I ventured to ride home. Mr. Wellman my Company. We dined at Coll. Buckminsters. N.B. My Friend Mrs. Dench there. Mr. Morse, who had been to see his Brother (who was lately come from Europe, and in a Consumption) dined with us and accompanyed us above Mr. Stones. I found my Family in Peace and safety. Blessed be God for it! And for all His Mercies!

1760 June 6 (Friday). My Kinsman Briant and his Wife had agreed to Visit his Brother William at Sudbury to Day, and us tomorrow; but so great Rains, as fell to Day, render it impracticable. I give my self, as I am able, to my Studys and preparations for the sabbath.

1760 June 7 (Saturday). I am closely engaged in my studys. Alex and Breck are at the Field, ploughing and hoeing and have been several Days this Week. N.B. On the 28th of last month David White worked half a Day. On the 2d of this Thomas Twitchell worked at the Island setting up Fence against Capt. Maynards Meadow. On the 3d Thomas and Moses Twitchell worked at making stone Wall on the Hill back of the Orchard.

1760 June 8 (Sunday). I read Job 22 and 1 Cor. 7. Preached on Ps. 77.20 a.m. Repeated with alterations and additions Sermon on 2 Cor. 3.14. Mr. Fessenden and Mrs. Chase dined here. I did not proceed to her admission because She had not prepared for it, not apprehending this was, according to Custom, the Day for it.

1760 June 9 (Monday). I rode to Monsieur LeBlanc’s—dined at Mr. Tainters. Had his Mare to plough and Deacon had my mare to Sutton. Wrote to my son Ebenezer per Mr. Zebulun Rice’s Wife. N.B. Mr. Fessenden hard put to’t to get a place to keep School and to Board at, on this Side the Town. He rides over to the North End, and agrees to keep School at the School House there and to board at Mr. Martyns. He returns and lodges here.

1760 June 10 (Tuesday). Mr. Fessenden leaves us and goes to the North End. A.M. The Boys finish Weeding at the Island. They plough the Orchard p.m. Young Mr. Dor here and dines with us. Mrs. Chase here. I wrote from her mouth Something to be read to the Church at her Admission. Mr. Ebenezer Rice at Eve. Gives me further Account of the Conduct of Neighbour Barny Newton in trading for the Scrap of Land before my Door.

1760 June 11 (Wednesday). I preached the Lecture on Ps. 119.174, repeating to p. 13 of Sermon on Prov. 3.17. [Marginal notation: Sarah begins to keep School in the Shop again.]

1760 June 12 (Thursday). Mr. Ebenezer Rice having told me last Evening that Neighbour Barny Newton seemed (as he thought) to incline to let me have the forementioned piece of land (for Rice had writ to him, of my Saying I had bespoke it, and challenged the Refusal of it, which he could not deny; and therefore would induce Newton to yield it up to me), I therefore went up to Barney to know his Mind but found him utterly inflexible. I told him that Since I had done every thing that was in my power fairly to obtain it; by bespeaking it of Rice, who promised me (to my best remembrance) the Refusal of it and by ingenuously asking him (Said Newton) but a little while agoe, whether he was willing I Should buy it of Rice, to which he consented without any word to the Contrary, then for him to go Secretly and without any Mention of me, and desire Rice to Sell it to him, was an unhandsome, Underhand Trading which he could not Vindicate; nor would he be willing any Man Should Serve him so; nay it carryed in it injustice (taking advantage of Mr. Rice’s Infirmity in forgetting that he had promised the Land to me), and I added I did not know how he could reasonably expect a Blessing upon it. But he remained unmoved by all I could say to him. I let him know further that it was wrong to induce Rice to give him a Deed of as much again Land as it could be thought he had there; and by those means Strive to extend and stretch his Bounds into the public Road, as I perceived they had made Bounds actually in the high way, if the high way were (as doubtless it is) 4 Rods Wide. But he said he should Set up his Fence, a Wall, where his Deed had given him—that is, to those Bounds. I went over to my other House, Mr. Ebenezer Rice, his Wife and Family now going off in order to their Voiage to Annapolis. Took Solemn Leave and renewed my Charge and Counsel to them both. N.B. he greatly wondered at Barny Newton that he would be so unmanly as to hold the Scrap of Land—which he Said he was convinced he had given me the promise of: and As to the Quantity he said he had told Newton and the Squire, who wrote the Deed, that he was Sure there was no Such Quantity there: that as they must call it something he let it go So, because of the words, “be the same more or less,” for the Squire said, it could do no harm to call it So. Whereas (as I told Mr. Rice) it would be likely to do this Harm, that it would be apt to make Newton Strain hard to get as near to that Quantity as he could and might induce him to Strain out further than he Should do; as there was reason to fear he had done already. And Rice Answered that he feared it was so. Mrs. Rice (and I Suppose the two little Girls) rode in my Chair. Mr. Parker drove—to go to Sudbury. P.M. I attended and Solemnized the Marriage of Mr. William Crosman of Hopkinton to Miss Susanna Newton, at Capt. Woods, his Wife having brought her up. I returned home sometime before Sun set.

1760 June 13 (Friday). Boys are Still hoing the Orchard. Squire Jabez Ward and his Son Jedidiah here.

1760 June 14 (Saturday). David White works for me in hoing and replanting with Beans part of the Island Field. P.M. came my Kinsman Briant and his wife from Stoneham to Visit us. Mr. Thomas Hardy takes up an Heiffer and her Calf to my son Ebenezer. The last I give him, the first I lend him for this Year.

1760 June 15 (Sunday). Read Job 23 and 1 Cor. 8. Preached a.m. on Isa. 12.3 and administered the Lords Supper. My Kinsman Briant with us. P.M. preached on Ps. 77.20. May God Himself add His Special Blessing!

1760 June 16 (Monday). Mr. Briant rides to Upton and returns. Returned with Mr. Parker and I payed him my Ballance, 9/ Old Tenor. But N.B. he wants my part of the lower south side for Pasture for his sheep—but does not pay me for it. Reckoned with Neighbour Samuel Williams and pay him to this Day. N.B. a Letter from Dr. William Walton of Pomfret per Israel Putnam junior about my Small Farm etc. to which I wrote an Answer. N.B. Old Mrs. How wants Baptism for two of her Grand Children by her son Noah deceased.

1760 June 17 (Tuesday). My Kinsman and his Wife leave us to go as far as their Brother Briants at Sudbury to Day—after which they will (by the Leave of Providence) proceed to Stoneham. The Company meet for enlistment. I went to ministers Meeting at Shrewsbury—which was but thin. Messrs. Barret, Martyn, Stone, Smith and Morse being absent. But Mr. Loring there. He wanted Advice concerning his Changing with Mr. Eliab Stone, a Young Gentleman who keeps school in Sudbury and preaches for Mr. Cook—but he has not been examined. I asked the Associations Advice respecting my baptizing Children on the Right of Foster Parents. I had reference to Mrs. How who desires privilege for her son Noahs Children. I also laid before them the Case of Joslin who wants Baptism for John Maynards Child. They advised me to proceed as to the former—and with the latter when I shall judge I have waited upon the Proper Parents a fit Space. I lodged at Mr. Cushings with Mr. Loring. Mr. Maccarty gave a Concio on Jam. 5.19.20.

1760 June 18 (Wednesday). A Rainy Day. Mr. Loring prayed and preached at the Lecture, his Text 2 Pet. 3.18. But grow in Grace. P.M. in returning I visit Mr. Greens Daughter who remains in a strange Condition.

1760 June 19 (Thursday). Catechized at the Meeting House. A.M. 31 Boys. P.M. 21 Girls. At Eve I visit Mrs. Rice (Capt. Woods Mother) at Capt. Woods, who is himself under Indispositions.

1760 June 20 (Friday). My wife’s Lameness continues; and I fear increases. She undergoes much tedious Smart. At night Mr. Ebenezer Cutler came from Boston and brought the News of my Cousen Bradfords being Safely brought to Bed, and has another Daughter. He also brought me Dr. Mayhews present of his Two Discourses on the Thanksgiving for the Reduction of Quebeck.

1760 June 21 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1760 June 22 (Sunday). Read Job 24, 1 Cor. 9. Preached on Isa. 12.3. P.M. I gave some Observations on the Chapter read. Stayed the Brethren on sundry articles. N.B. I can’t in Conscience delay consulting the Church, with reference to the Case of Mr. Samuel Fay junior though I called no Name.

1760 June 23 (Monday). Visit Capt. Rolf—and Abner Warrin. Prayed the latter. P.M. Mr. Thomas Twitchell—Master Fessenden.

1760 June 24 (Tuesday). A.M. the wife of Cornelius Biglow junior and p.m. Mr. Solomon Baker Examined. Ensign Fay Sent for me to visit his son Jeduthun who is ill. I went—prayed.

1760 June 25 (Wednesday). Ensign Fay Sent an horse for me to go up again to See his son Jeduthun again. I went, and prayed with him. He is somewhat better. Susanna rode with me to Mr. Martyns Lecture. I preached on Isa. 12.3. N.B. dined there and We returned at Eve. N.B. We are all so rejoiced at the News from Quebeck that I could not but take Notice of it in my Sermon. It is that our people had made So Successfull a Sally out upon the Enemy as drove them away from their Entrenchments so that the Seige was effect[ual?]ly raised.

1760 June 26 (Thursday). My Colt having Strayed to Marlborough, Send Alexander after him. P.M. I went to the Widow Forbush’s and marryed her to Mr. Joshua Kendall junior. But did not tarry to their Entertainment. I hastened home to wait on Dr. Gott who is carrying his Wife home. She, her Brother William Wheat, and Miss Katy were here with him.

1760 June 27 (Friday). Mr. Daniel Miller comes to clearing, and, under him, Mr. Moses Twitchell and James Bowman junior—the last Mowed my Garden. Mr. Kendal here p.m. and with him his wife, her sister Sadler and sister Tainter.

1760 June 28 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1760 June 29 (Sunday). Read Job 25 and 26. Preached on 2 Cor. 3.14, last Clause, repeating with a few Alterations Sermon on that Text. P.M. read 1 Cor. 10 and preached on Joh. 3.19, the first Sermon on that Text. N.B. A Lame Man, with but one Legg, one Mr. Moses Copley of Canaan in Connecticut, was at meeting. I took him home, and he dined with me.

1760 June 30 (Monday). Mr. Kendal carryed off his Wife to Suffield and her Brother and sister Warrin accompany them. Silas Frost worked for me—hoing my Island Field.

1760 July 1 (Tuesday). I rode over to Hopkinton to See Mr. Barret, but he, his wife, Son, Daughter and Grand son being gone over to Mrs. Morris’s to dinner, I dined at Mr. Crosman’s—where I was willing to make a Visit, because young Mrs. Crosman was So newly come home, to live there (See June 12) and because my Daughter Sarah was with me, whom Mrs. Crosman had much sollicited to go home with her, but could not. N.B. Coll. Jones, Capt. Dunlop dined there also. Gilbert Dench (I think nigh a Year younger than my Billy) going out a Lieutenant to the Said Dunlop. After Dinner My Daughter and I rode to Mrs. Morris’s, where we found Mr. Barret and the rest. N.B. I Received of Mrs. Morris (having borrowed them before of her Husband when he was at my House) the Two volumes of Poetical Register. We returned home safe at Night. D.G. N.B. This Day a Council Sits at North Sutton, which is to decide their Case. N.B. While I was at Hopkinton Mrs. Maynard, Mrs. Speakman, and Miss Nanny Woods here.

1760 July 2 (Wednesday). Visit at Ensign Fays: his Son Jeduthun lying in a low state yet. Was accepted kindly and dined with them. P.M. Visit Mr. Parkers Child, which is much better. Visit at old Mr. Hows and his son Benjamins. Called at Capt. Maynards in my Return home.

1760 July 3 (Thursday). My son Baldwin and his wife from Boston—and lodge here. N.B. I visit Capt. Forb.’s wife—at Capt. Brighams and Mr. Thomas Frosts.

1760 July 4 (Friday). My Son and Daughter leave us to go to Rutland, which is their present Home. Mr. Cook of ‘Notamy and his Delegate, from the Council at Sutton call here—and shew me their Result. Master Townsend and his wife dine here, and tarry some time. Presently after them came Mr. Abraham Beemans Wife to be examined, and I can’t avoid Spending a great deal of Time with her. So that by the various Sorts of Company to Day I am greatly taken off from my Studys, and perplexed in them. Alexander brings Miss Betty Johnson who works here.

1760 July 5 (Saturday). Monsieur LeBlanch and Claud DuGas here, and Marie Pickott with them. P.M. Mr. Fessenden. But Scantily prepared for preaching. Miss Betty.

1760 July 6 (Sunday). Was obliged to exert my Self in my preparation. But though I was much concerned, I was greatly assisted and Succeeded both in Public and private. I would praise God for His undeserved Goodness, but desire to be humbled for my own great Defects—for as many avocations as I had last week, yet a great deal of the Time which I had, might have been improved much better. May God forgive me and make me sensible of the worth of Precious Time! Though Time may not be spent Viciously, and though it may profitably, yet there are different kinds and Degrees of Profit. Read Job 27 and 1 Cor. 11. Preached a. and p.m. on Joh. 3.19. Old Mrs. Phillips dined here. A worthy, Serious Woman!

1760 July 7 (Monday). Silas Frost mows by the Garden. P.M. Young Mrs. Baker and her sisters, Miss Lavinia and Molly make a Visit here and 4 or 5 more young persons for the Sake of the Currants. I kept as close as I could to my Study. Miss Betty Johnson Still here.

1760 July 8 (Tuesday). Coll. Weeks here and dined with us. Tells me Deacon Forb. is at Upton and very ill. An exceeding hot Day. At Eve the Marriage of James Bowman junior and Mary Gashit. My Sons got in part of the Hay in the Lot by the Garden. Miss Betty leaves us in the Morning and I pay her for her work; and 2/ old Tenor over.

1760 July 9 (Wednesday). Silas Frost works here. He mows the West Pasture and behind the Meeting House and a while at the Island. I visited at Mr. Solomon Bakers; but he had carryed his lame Leg to the Doctors so that I missed of him, though his wife was at home, and she Shewed me what She had prepared by way of Relation. The Boys get in more Hay. Mr. Hezekiah How came, with his son Daniel and a Team, for a Barrell of Cyder, which I let him have only upon Condition that he will let me have as good an one this time twelve Month with as good new Barrell as this.

1760 July 10 (Thursday). Silas Frost mowed Baulks at the Island—p.m. in Bent Meadow. Catechetical Exercise. 33 Young Women present. I discoursed to them from Rom. 5.12. One of Deacon Forb. Grand Children informed me that he was So low as to keep his Bed, and it was feared he would not go abroad again. I therefore rode at Evening there. Found the Deacon much better and sitting up, and could walk about—nay he went out abroad (in the Day) and would have gone to Meeting but they restrained him. I lodged at Mr. Fisk’s—with Dr. [Dean?].

1760 July 11 (Friday). Returned home a.m. My sons have Mr. Williams’ Team. And get in the Hay West of the Meeting House, and on the back of it. Mr. Jonathan Cook here and wants to have his Child baptized. Refer him to Mr. Martyn—the way not being wholly clear without a Certificat from him. P.M. Mrs. Sarah Grout here to discourse with me in order to joining with the Church. Can do very little in my Study.

1760 July 12 (Saturday). Full of perplexity about my Hay, at the Island and Bent Meadow. Am obliged to go about among the Neighbours for a Team—to Mr. Zebulun Rice, Capt. Wood, Neighbour Barny, Mr. Nurse, and Mr. Williams—at last, have Mr. Nathan Maynards Cart, Mr. Williams oxen, [Neighbour Aaron?] Nurse to do the work: but not in person, Nathan Kenny actually goes and Mr. Nurse hoes for him. My Sheep missing, and add New Trouble.

1760 July 13 (Sunday). Read Job 28 and 1 Cor. XII. Preached a.m. on [Joh.?] 3.18, latter part. P.M. Was obliged to repeat sermon on 2 Cor. 3.18, adding an Address to the young men who are going out to War. N.B. Dr. Crosbie dined here.

1760 July 14 (Monday). In Some affliction by reason of our little Flock of Sheep Straying away. They have been gone some Days, and we can’t hear of them. P.M. I undertook my Journey to Commencement about 3 p.m. by reason of the great Heat. Called at Mr. Stones, who was gone—at Mr. Bridge’s—neither was he at home: and his Wife not well, so that I saw neither of them. I rode this Evening as far as Capt. Samuel Baldwins by 9 o’Clock and (designing to stir Early, went not to Mr. Wood[wards?]) but lodged there.

1760 July 15 (Tuesday). Rose Early, and (Mr. Nichols of Brookfield with me to Watertown) I rode to Boston. Breakfasted at Dr. Wheats. Visited at the North End a.m. Dined at Brother Samuels. Mr. William Winter p.m. sent my mare to the Cunningham Pasture at the bottom of the Common. Paid a Visit to Coll. Hanfield where was Coll. Leonard Jarvis, who constrained me to visit at his House, his Lady being under Indispositions—they treated me with much Civility. Supped at Brothers with Capt. Bradford and his wife: but lodged at my Kinsman Winters, who make me very Welcome—and it suits me well, because my Brother Samuels House has So many to lodge there.

1760 July 16 (Wednesday). Rose early; took Horse; and with Mr. Maccarty from Roxbury, rode to Cambridge. Put up at Master Fessendens. Attended the publick Exercises a. and p.m. Dined in the Hall. At Sir Lowels, Dunbars and Livermore’s Chambers—At Master Monis’s—and Mr. Marrits—where I supped with Mr. Martyn and his wife, and their Sister Witt of Marlborough. Lodged at Sister Barretts. N.B. She is in a weak, feeble State yet—and her Case called for my Compassion and Charity.

1760 July 17 (Thursday). I rose Early. Master Fessenden and I broke fast at Dr. Wrights—with his wife. The Doctor is gone to Sea in the King George. Rode to Watertown to Lt. Whitneys, where I was kindly entertained. N.B. Mr. Nathaniel Harringtons Wife buryed to Day. Was with him to Condole his great Loss. N.B. Bowman from College, Deacon Tainter, and Jacob Rice ride with me in Company to Coll. Buckminsters where we were all refreshed (on Free Cost). I had a Comfortable Journey home, and found all in peace. D.G. N.B. My Sheep, which had strayed, had come to home in safety. But Except Alexanders Lameness by running a Nail into his Foot. And Mr. Moses Twitchell had not come to work as he had engaged, neither Yesterday nor to Day; to my great Disappointment. Mr. Joseph Chaddock had sent a Letter of Smart Dunning for Thomas’s Debt to him, which Capt. Rolf had promised to discharge.

1760 July 18 (Friday). P.M. Mr. Wellman of Sutton here. Tells me he designs Next week to ask a Dismission from his people. N.B. My Alexander much out of Health, and can do very little.

1760 July 19 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1760 July 20 (Sunday). Read Job 29 and 1 Cor. 13. Preached on 2 Cor. 3.18. P.M. Job 3.19. Stopped the Church on the Affair of Mr. Samuel Fay junior and they voted to send a Committee to him—that they be 3 and that Brother Whitney, Daniel Forbush and Chamberlin be the Persons—their Errand being This, viz. to see what has made him withdraw from his Duty as he had done.

1760 July 21 (Monday). Mr. Moses Twitchell came to work for me. He mowes my Newton Meadow. Capt. Maynard here p.m. with a Quarter of Veal, etc.

1760 July 22 (Tuesday). The Committee here in the morning, they having been to Mr. Fays—and brought me their Report. Mr. Twitchell works. Mr. Hezekiah Pratt with his Team carts in to my Barn two load of Meadow Hay. At night Mr. Foster of Berwick—Supps here but returns back to his Sister Twitchell.

1760 July 23 (Wednesday). My Lecture at 10 a.m. preached by Mr. Stone from Joh. 6.[5?]. Stopped the Church to hear the Report of the Committee from Mr. Fay. It was read. In the Debates of the Church upon the Case N.B. Squire Baker was of Opinion that all his faultiness which was before his Coming to the Communion must be obliterated, that is, although he has been faulty heretofore, yet if the Church have admitted him to Communion Since, that Cancells it. This was easily answered. Brother Batherick was for proceeding, and admitting the man to privilege upon these Reasons brought by the Committee. Brother Moses Warrin was on the other Hand. Finally Vote to Suspend this Affair for a While farther. N.B. I wanted to return home because Mr. Stone had brought his Wife and the Widow of [blank] Prince late of Boston deceased. And they dined here. Mr. Fessenden p.m. Mr. Twitchell worked here. At Deacon Tainters Motion a Number of Hands came and cutt down my Field of Rye, back of the Meeting House. A Sett before Meeting and another sett after. They were Deacon Tainter, his son and servant, Mr. Daniel Forb., Thomas Twitchell, and Joseph Harrington, also Lieutenant Harrington—these before meeting. P.M. were Joseph Harrington, Tainters young man, viz. John Ball, Noah Hardy, Adam Rice, John Wood and a Young man with him. A great Kindness, we treated them as well as I could. May God reward them!

1760 July 24 (Thursday). Mr. Twitchell mowes and Alex with him, the last that I pretend to get, of Meadow Hay. Mrs. Philips here, and in some Spiritual Trouble.

1760 July 25 (Friday). Foggy morning. Mr. Twitchell came, but not till between 10 and 11 a.m. He and the Boys are getting up the Hay. He works an Hour and half in the Night in binding Rye. Mr. Solomon Baker here with his Relation. Mrs. Biglow, wife of Cornelius junior here, about her joining to the Church.

1760 July 26 (Saturday). Mr. Twitchell works till towards Noon in getting in Rye. Silas Frost came to hoe, without my Sending for or expecting him, and when we could not attend to plough for him. He therefore offers to return home and I consent.

1760 July 27 (Sunday). Read Job 30 and 1 Cor. 14 to v. 20. Preached on Song 6.12. Administered the Sacrament after admitting Mr. Solomon Baker and his wife into the Church. Mr. Nevers of Hollis, dines here. P.M. Miss Betty Gott from Springfield, at Meeting. I Preached on [blank].

1760 July 28 (Monday). I prepare to Send by Capt. Rolf, to Albany, for Thomme’s Wages. Squire Baker takes the Acknowledgment of the Power of Attorney. Silas Frost hoes for me; the Boys with him in Hilling. I read Mr. Samuel Moody against Mr. Bellamy. Visit at Mr. Warrins; and was at Deacon Bonds for Rye.

1760 July 29 (Tuesday). Read Bellamy against Moody. P.M. Mrs. Maynard and her Sister Betty—the latter tarrys over night. At Eve I was faint and sick—cast—and being unloaded, am more easy—but weak. Letter from Mr. Barrett to preach on Thursday.

1760 July 30 (Wednesday). Have had but poor Sleep, yet rise early and Somewhat Comfortable. D.G. I undertake to go to Southborough and my Wife rides in the Chair with me (drawn by Capt. Woods Horse: N.B. Mr. Daniel Adams has my Mare to go to Boston). We dine at Mr. Stones. Mrs. Prince there. I preached the Lecture there, on Eph. 1.7. Very few at meeting. Rain, after great Drought. We return at Eve. God was graciously pleased to carry me through—though I was but too dull and lifeless—but He is able to give success to weakest Means. O that I might have Redemption through that precious Blood! N.B. Mrs. Maynard goes to Marlborough in her Chair. Miss Betty goes with her; and my Suse rides her Horse with them.

1760 July 31 (Thursday). I ride my mare, newly come from Boston, to Hopkinton to preach Mr. Barretts Lecture. When I came there, Mr. Loring unexpected by Mr. Barret, was before me. I freely resigned to him. Mr. Stone came also, at my Request lest I Should not be able to preach; or carry on the whole Exercise. We all dined there. Mrs. Barret much wrot down with the Gravel. Mr. Loring preached on Joh. 16.7. I returned at Eve. N.B. the Church Meeting at Hopkinton about Deacon Benjamin Burnap; to see whether they will receive his Acknowledgment or no.

1760 August 1 (Friday). My sons have got through their Hilling. We have sowed two Bushels of Rye in that Field which we Call the Cook Field. N.B. Messrs. Kidder and Tainter, from Sutton here and acquaint me how their Affairs go—that Mr. Welman has asked the Church to dismiss him: and that the Church, taking in the 13 who were Delinquents, have voted his Dismission. And these men inform me that he can preach for me next Sabbath—or when it will best suit me. I answer that it will be best on the 17th Day of this Month. Mrs. Maynard and Suse return from Marlborough.

1760 August 2 (Saturday). Was much troubled with faintness—and have been So at times ever since the Eve after the 29th last.

1760 August 3 (Sunday). Read Job 31 and 1 Cor. 14 from v. 21. Preached a.m. on Mat. 5.14 to page 6, for I Spent my Self in what I prepared on Dan. 5.25 p.m. Which may God Succeed to me as well as Mine for Christs Sake! O that when weighed I may not be found Wanting! Master Bowman dined here. N.B. Propounded the Desire of Sarah Biglow, wife of Cornelius Biglow junior to join in full Communion.

1760 August 4 (Monday). Daniel Forbush junior here. I direct him to be reconciled to Jonathan How.

1760 August 5 (Tuesday). Though it was Showery I walked over to t’other House, to See the Hay Mr. Parker has got in. He tells me that except a few Cocks lately got in, he finished haying, tomorrow will be a fortnight Since. P.M. I preached at Squire Bakers, on Heb. 6.7 to page 10. N.B. my Wife rode with me; and we were agreeably entertained after the Exercise.

1760 August 6 (Wednesday). Dined at Mr. Moses Brighams. P.M. at 4 of the Shrewsbury Houses above us, who chiefly attend with us.

1760 August 7 (Thursday). Sorrowfull Tidings wound my Ears, nor less my Heart, that Brother Cushing of Shrewsbury is dead—dy’d suddenly in his Field gathering up Rye. May God Sanctifie the awful Breach! O that God would remember his bereaved Handmaid—the Children—but especially the Flock! Which now it may be feared, will fall into various Divisions. But may the great Shepherd guide and restrain and provide for them!

1760 August 8 (Friday). Nathan Kenny got in my spring Rye, and dined here.

1760 August 9 (Saturday). Favored with Mr. A. Nurse’s help in mending my old Chair, and with one of Neighbour Moses Nurse’s Horses my wife and I rode to the Funeral of Mr. Cushing. We dined there. I was urged by So many to undertake somewhat by way of Character of him, that I did it, though in a broken manner. The Corps were carryed into the Meeting House, and Prayer was made by Mr. Loring. He was the first Pall-bearer. I walked with him: Mr. Martyn and Mr. Stone next. Mr. Smith and Mr. Morse the other. The under-bearers were Serjeant Taylor and Mr. Edward Goddard, and the two Deacons, Miles and Knowlton. Coll. Ward and two more of the Church, as a Committee waited on the Bearers, to desire us to preach to ‘em in our turns—Mr. Swan being agreed with to supply our Pulpits. Mr. Loring indeed could not consent for tomorrow, it being their Communion. I could not because of my intended Journey on Monday Morning. Mr. Stone offers to stay, and Mr. Swan goes to Southborough. The Next sabbath is for Mr. Loring and the Next to that for Me. I took sorrowful Leave. May God Himself grant Support and Directions as the Day requires! Called a little at Capt. Allens. N.B. no less than Ten men and women from Worcester there.

1760 August 10 (Sunday). I could not Change with Mr. Martyn as I depended upon doing, he being pre-engaged to Mr. Smith, who made it too difficult to gratify my Request to come here, he not having his own Horse etc. I was Sorry for this Disappointment, but was obliged to do as I could not help. Read Job 32 and 1 Cor. 15 to v. 20. Preached a.m. on Dan. 5.25. P.M. repeated with omissions and Alterations the 2 sermons on Rev. 3.2. O that God would accompany it with divine Power! Especially into my own Soul!

1760 August 11 (Monday). This Morning, having Mr. Nathaniel Balls mare to draw in my Chair, my wife and I sat out upon our Journey to Rutland and Brookfield. We broke fast at Capt. Allens—though late—called at Mrs. Cushings and at Capt. Biglows in Holden—dined late at Mr. Davis’s—arrived Safe at my Son Baldwins and found them all well. D.G. We also lodged there.

1760 August 12 (Tuesday). A.M. viewed the work at the New Meeting House. Visited Mr. Buckminster. Dined at my son Baldwins, having brought Mr. Buckminster and his Wife with us there. P.M. my son and Daughter in their Chair rode with us through Rutland Woods to Brookfield. My son Ebenezer and his Family Well; and at Mr. Forb.’s where we lodged.

1760 August 13 (Wednesday). Dined at Mr. Forb. P.M. Mr. Forb. and I visited Mr. Bartlet, Squire Howard, and Mr. Joseph Chaddock. N.B. Took up two Notes of Hand given Mr. Chaddock by my son Thomas with what Interest he required—viz. £23.14.0 old Tenor. Lodged at Mr. Forb.

1760 August 14 (Thursday). Broke Fast at Dr. Gotts. My Son Ebenezer and I (on an Horse provided me) rode to Ware River Parish. Dined with Mr. Thayer at his Lodgings there. Proceeded to Mr. Lulls. Shewed him the Letters which I received from our Arbitrators on our Townshend Affairs, viz. Lieut. Daniel Taylor of Townshend, and Mr. William Jones of Lunenbourgh. Mr. Lull not having Money at that time to pay his part of the Charge demanded by them, I took his promissory Note for 70/ old Tenor and told him that I would write a Deed for him of the 35 Acres which though he had given me Deed of as part of Equivalence to me for the Lot I lost, yet the Arbitrators had not Seen meet to grant to me: This Deed I am to keep as Pledge till Lull pays me this promisory Note and the Interest of it. We changed our Notes of Obligation to stand by the Judgment of the Arbitrators. I also took two of Mr. Lulls Deeds in Trust to get ‘em acknowledged at Concord Court if either of the Witnesses are living, he promising to bear the Charge I must be at in doing it. Also he desires me to search in the Registers Office at Cambridge for the Deed given by Capt. Adams of Concord to Mr. Lull, of one half of Coll. Taylors Right in Townshend. We supped at Mrs. Cutler’s—returned to Mr. Forbush’s in the Dark and Rain, and I lodged there, Mrs. P________ there also. My Daughter so near her Time as very much to keep her mother there. N.B. My Baldwins returned to Rutland.

1760 August 15 (Friday). Rain. Can’t journey home. It held up p.m. Mr. Forb. and I rode out to visit the Squires Convers and Ayres—the former not at home. At Squire Ayres’ Capt. Thomas Gilbert acknowledges the Deed which he had given my Son Ebenezer of Jonathan Gilberts place. At Night Mr. Forb. in Ebenezer’s behalf acquaints me with his great straits and Difficultys, to my great Grief to hear when I am so little able to do what is necessary for his Relief.

1760 August 16 (Saturday). My Daughter Forb. has been so ill in the Night past, She prays we would not go home as I designed. Was at Ebenezers. Dined at Forb. P.M. Mr. Forb. and I rode to see Mr. Parsons and Capt. Gilbert, where was Mr. Joseph Bowman with his Aunt Walker from Blanford.

1760 August 17 (Sunday). Mr. Forb. prayed before sermon. I preached on Joel 3.13 a.m. to p.12. After Dinner Mr. Forb. rode to the West Parish and preached for Mr. Parsons. While I for him on Dan. 5.25. May God pardon my great Defects and Miscarriages and add his almighty Blessing!

1760 August 18 (Monday). Much against my Daughter Forb.’s Inclination, but much obliged thereto by our unavoidable Calls other where, my wife and I sat out on our Journey home. Broke fast at Capt. Wolcotts. Dined at Judge Chandlers. Drank Tea at Capt. Allens—having called at Mrs. Cushings. Found our family comfortable. D.G. N.B. Mr. Welman preached for me yesterday, on Ps. 2.12 and on 1 Pet. 3.20.

1760 August 19 (Tuesday). Mr. Davis and afterwards Mr. Loring, came from Shrewsbury in their way to Ministers Meeting. Mr. Loring had preached last Lords Day on the Death of Mr. Cushing: and attended there the Funeral of Mr. Joseph Knowlton, a most excellent man, and pious, experienced Christian. Mr. Loring had also preached yesterday at Mr. Joseph Miles’s. We rode to Hopkinton Association. Mrs. Barrett better. Mr. Cushings Death much lamented—especially in Mr. Davis’s Answer to his Question: what is the Import of Luk. 12.35.36.

1760 August 20 (Wednesday). I was very feeble, faint and feverish last night—and Slept but little; yet being better this morning, through the divine Goodness I went to Meeting. Mr. Goss prayed. I preached on 2 Cor. 4.16. May God Himself grant an Efficacious Blessing! But ardently wish especially that I may my self be properly moved! For how great Reason have I in peculiar manner to Consider my outward Mans Decay, and to be concerned for the renewing of my inward man, Day by Day! N.B. some special, moving Intercourse with Mr. Loring. But (may God have the Glory!) this Meeting was in general one of the most profitable Meetings. Mr. Davis was my Company home but he proceeded on his Journey. Mrs. Maynard at Tea here. At Evening Mr. Abijah Gale here—he manifests Dissatisfaction that Mr. Welman preached here—but goes away satisfyed. I understood by him that some Number besides went to other Meetings—which I am sorry for.

1760 August 21 (Thursday). Mrs. Biglow here with her Relation. Mr. Moses Nurse is so behind Hand in his Haying and Oat Harvest, that he having been very kind to us, has help from us.

1760 August 22 (Friday). Deacon Tainter returns from Brookfield, informs that my Daughter Forb. is yet well and comfortable. The chief Engagement of my Mind is upon my preaching at Shrewsbury but can’t prepare a new sermon on that Occasion.

1760 August 23 (Saturday). Mr. Joseph Bruce here and manifests his uneasiness at Mr. Welmans preaching here. He wants to be Examined in order to his joining with the Church—but I am so engaged in my preparation for the Sabbath that I Can’t attend upon it. Young Mr. Dorr here. Dined here. Wants to know when I will go and preach at Providence Town, where he has the Care of the Pulpit. But I cannot give any Encouragement about it. Mr. Fessenden here also. I rode to Shrewsbury and lodged at Mrs. Cushings.

1760 August 24 (Sunday). I preached on Occasion of the Sudden Death of Rev. Mr. Job Cushing, at Shrewsbury a.m. on Luk. 12.36.37, former parts. P.M. on Zech. 1.5 and gave some Character of him. May God be pleased to add his almighty Blessing! May all of us be thoroughly awakened and quickened that We also may be always ready! I returned at Eve—found Mr. Swan here. He had preached for me a.m. on Joh. 3.8 and Ps. 37.37.

1760 August 25 (Monday). I gave Mr. Swan the Compendious History of the Reformation and one of my own (printed) Discourses on Ezek. 22.30 and hereby wholly Satisfyed him on the account of the Eusebius which I bought of his mother in his behalf, Some Years ago at Lancaster. He left us. P.M. Capt. Woods Mother and Wife came to See us. I sat about my Preparations for the Sabbath.

1760 August 26 (Tuesday). I walked to Lt. Forb. and to Capt. Forb. At noon to Capt. Bakers and Neighbour Zebulun Rice’s. Read to the latter, Reasons why no one ought to be offended at Mr. Wellmans preaching here. P.M. Jonathan Grout here with [blank] Harrington of Grafton who borrows my Chair to go to Watertown. Mr. Joseph Grout here to be Examined. Deacon Tainter at Eve; and Mr. B. Hill.

1760 August 27 (Wednesday). [No entry.]

1760 August 28 (Thursday). I have heard that Deacon Forb. was under Some Disquietment about Mr. Wellmans preaching here. I therefore, having Business that way, went to him to talk with him about and shew him the Reasons for my employing him. N.B. Mr. Abraham Knowlton of Shrewsbury with me. We ride to Ensign Millers to Speak with Deacon Kimbal. P.M. Mrs. Maynard rode over, waits on Mrs. Instant and Miss Suse Loe. At eve Mr. John Fosket junior brings an Order from Mr. William Jones junior of Lunenbourg, which I paid, it being for two Dollars, for his Fathers Service on the Lull Affair. Nathan Kenny came with a Waggon and carryed over to Capt. Maynards Six Barrells, and brought from Mr. Parker one Barrell of New Cyder: he having made two and somewhat more.

1760 August 29 (Friday). My Wife went over to visit Mrs. Parker and tarryed the Afternoon. Mrs. Sarah Grout here and was examin’d. P.M. Mr. Daniel Forbush here to talk with me about Mr. Wellmans preaching here. I gave him the Reasons: but I told him that I was not aware it would disquiet so many of my people. If I had, I would not have asked him. We had no roughness of Temper; and he goes away quiet. At Night Capt. Fay came; asks me to preach at his House next Tuesday: but I was obliged to deny him, because I purpose to go a journey next week. He asked me whether it would be agreeable to me that Mr. Hutchinson Should preach there? I told him Yes; for I should be glad of all means for their Spiritual and Eternal Good. He left me a present of Cheese and Apples. But no word about Mr. Wellman, though he was one that went somewhere else to Meeting that Day he preached here. [Marginal notation: My Daughter Forb. was delivered of a son, which afterwards was called Eli.]

1760 August 30 (Saturday). Mr. Batheric Called—and he came upon the Affair of Mr. Wellmans preaching but not warm, nor much disquieted—to what some others are. I observed that his Uncle Thomas Forbush was (by his late Discourse with him) on Mr. Wellmans Side and in his Commendation.

1760 August 31 (Sunday). Read Job 33 and 1 Cor. 15 from v. 20. Preached a. and p.m. on Heb. 12.25. May God grant His almighty Blessing. Admitted the Wife of Cornelius Biglow junior into the Church.

1760 September 1 (Monday). Samuel Forb. with a Yoke of Oxen, and a Yoke from Mr. Zebulun Rice’s, and another from Mr. Joseph Baker ploughed my Summer tilling Ground at the Island. I rode to Mr. Edwards Whipples, Solomon Bakers and Pratts, to provide for my Mason next week. P.M. Mr. Baker sent his young man to help at the ploughing. Sold my Mare to Mr. Joseph Baker for his Father, for 55£ Old Tenor to be paid in 3 months. Mr. Zebulun Rice the witness—he wants to learn the Rules of Musick; of which I gave him a Sketch this Evening.

1760 September 2 (Tuesday). On Mr. Zebulun Rice’s Mare I sat out on my Journey for Mr. Lulls Benefit, to get his Deeds acknowledged by the Court at Concord. I was much troubled with having Such a Lame, dull Creature. Turned to Squire Brighams at Marlborough to get a better, but did not succeed. I dined there. Proceeded to Sudbury. One Burbank of Sutton my Company. Called at Widow Baldwin’s. Mr. Farrars at Lincoln. At Capt. Adams’s there. Young Mr. Farrar Shews me the way to Mr. Lawrence’s. N.B. we called and drank a Glass of Wine at Judge Russells. Lodged at Mr. Lawrence’s, with his Father.

1760 September 3 (Wednesday). Rode to Lexington, hoping to find Mrs. Mary Lock, one of the Witnesses I was in search for—but having dined at Mr. Clarks, was obliged to ride to Woburn, she being the Wife of Deacon John Wright. Found her, declared my Business, and She, with her Husbands Concurrence, consented to go to Court. I lodged at Mr. Shermans. N.B. At Eve he came from Cambridge, where the Governor had visited, and dined to Day.

1760 September 4 (Thursday). Mr. Sherman rode with me to Mrs. Bows at Bedford; and to Concord; where also came Deacon Wright and Wife. Coll. Lawrence presented the Deeds to the Court at their Sessions to Day—but it unhappily fell out that the Seal of one of the Deeds was torn off; and therefore it was concluded that two Justices Quorum Unus Should Swear what Evidences appeared, and this Should be in perpetuam re; Memoriam—I was desired to dine with the Court; which I did—as did Mr. Bliss and Mr. Joseph Emmerson of Nissitisset. After Dinner Mr. Danforth and Coll. Elisha Jones came to Dr. Minots, and there Swore Mrs. Mary Wright who was one of the Witnesses to Jonathan Parks Deed to Benjamin and James Lull of Rights in Townshend. And Coll. William Lawrence, Major James Prescott, and Capt. Josiah Sartell, were Sworn respecting Isaac Farnsworth Hand Writing, who was one of the Witnesses of Jonathan Parks Deed to Lull of his Half of the Hundred Acres (which were the House Lott in Townshend). These Gentlemen were so generous as to give me what they had done. And I payed Deacon Wright 30/ for his Wife’s coming 13 miles on this occasion, and for their Returning home. N.B. I put up wholly among the Minots. My Bags etc. at Master Minots, the Mare I rode, at Coll.’s widows; and visit there at Eve. Supped and lodged at Dr. Minots, with Mr. Martyn.

1760 September 5 (Friday). A variety of Consultations about Lulls Deeds. Young Mr. Foxcroft undertakes to search the Records for Capt. Adams’s Deed to Lull and to Parks. Mr. Martyn and I call at Mr. Bliss’s—and at Squire Whitings. I buy and pay for a Book containing the Disputations in former Times in this Country about the Baptizing any other Children than those of Church Members. In returning home we met Mr. Caleb Sawyer of Leominster and reads a summons to us to appear at the Superior Court at Wor’ster which was to our sorrow. Stopped a little at Deacon Rice’s; where we were kindly invited to dine, it being noon: but Mr. Martyn was rather inclined to dine at his Brother Witts in Marlborough and would have me go with him. He had also sent his son Richard before him to give Notice of our Coming. We therefore rode there. But Mrs. Witt was from Home; and the wealthy old Gentleman, though he had been at Court for a great many Years, yet had never learnt to invite us to dine with him; nor to ask us whether we had any need of Eating, at that time o’ Day; though he must of necessity know that our ride had been long Since we could have been refreshed: He Seemed to avoid all Such Questions. Therefore hungry, disappointed and ashamed, we were obliged to remount our Horses, and ride up into Town to Search for Something that might relieve our Appetites. We stopped at Dr. Dexters, and it So happened that they had not dined; but desired we would accept of a Dinner with them. We needed no great Courting. We dined there heartily. Thence we visited Mr. Smith. Arrived Safe at Evening. D.G.

1760 September 6 (Saturday). P.M. Jabez Ward Esq. and his Son Jabez here, and drink Tea with us.

1760 September 7 (Sunday). I changed with Mr. Martyn, who preached on Song 1.6, latter part and Prov. 4.23. I preached on Dan. 5.20 and Mat. 16.24. Mr. Smith, who had preached at Shrewsbury was at Mr. Martyns at Evening. I returned home.

1760 September 8 (Monday). Deacon Kimball came to finish the lathing, and then to plaister my Kitchin. Capt. Wood early brought down the Lime from Mr. Joseph Bakers. P.M. Rebecca Hardy came to be instructed etc. Dr. Walton of Pomfret here at Evening.

1760 September 9 (Tuesday). Visit Cornet Brigham who is Sick of a Fever. P.M. visit Abner Warrin who languishes; and Ebenezer Miller who also is in a relaxed wasting State; Mr. Daniel Forbush and one of his Daughters, who are Sick—Monsieur LeBlanc. Deacon Kimbal. N.B. Dr. Walton at Breakfast here.

1760 September 10 (Wednesday). Mr. Martyn, having dined here, preached my Lecture on Song 1.12. N.B. Deacon Kimball. Letter from Mr. E. Rice at Annapolis.

1760 September 11 (Thursday). I rode to Shrewsbury in my Chair; Daughter Sarah with me, drawn by Mr. Parkers Mare. Capt. Allen acquaints me with the Death of his Son Samuel at New Providence. We dined at Mrs. Cushings. Old Madam Prentice there. I preached on 1 Joh. 1.7. After Lecture visit Mrs. Allen in her mourning for her Son. At Eve we returned home well. D.G. Deacon Kimball. N.B. Sorrowful Account from Dr. Crosby of my Neighbour Williams’s Hand, which he slightly hurt in getting Wood; but it has festered greatly.

1760 September 12 (Friday). Visit and pray with Mr. Williams. His Hand looks terribly. P.M. Deacon Kimball finishes; having made up 4 1/2 Days, at 25/ O.T. Letters from Mr. Forward and Mr. Forb. to go to Council at Cold Spring. And from my Son Ebenezer who has been sick, but is recovered. D.G. Samuel returns home. My Rowing mowed by Deacon Tainters young man. Dr. Wilson has visited Neighbour Williams and thinks he will dye.

1760 September 13 (Saturday). Find in the News Paper of the 11th the Death of Honorable Judge Sewall after about 10 Days Confinement in the 57th Year of his Age.3 He was the very Glory of this Province; and I don’t know but that Universally esteemed so. I had the Happiness of Acquaintance with him from early Youth. We were not only Classmates at College but school-mates. And he did me the Honor to invite me with a Singular endearingness to his House: telling me, I knew he took a particular Pleasure in my coming to See him. It is a most heavy Loss! The Lord sanctifie it to the Land—to the Surviving Judges, to the rest of our Classmates; and in a peculiar Manner to unworthy Me! O might I Suitably reallize my own Decease! Isa. 3.1.2.3. “For behold the Lord. The Lord of Hosts doth take away from Jerusalem and from Judah—the Judge—the Prudent—the Honorable Man—the Counsellor—and the Eloquent Oratour.” Visited Neighbour Williams and desiring I might be alone with him, all left us—and I dealt in some plainness with him as to what I conceived to be his particular sins: but he entertains a great deal of Hope concerning his spiritual Welfare. P.M. Mr. Fessenden here. I advise him before he preaches any more, to be examined; but to be sure to join with some Church and go to the Communion.

1760 September 14 (Sunday). Read Job 34. Omitted the Afternoon reading by Reason of the Multiplicity of Exercises and Sacred Business of this Day. Preached a.m. on Song 6.12. Administered the Lords Supper. N.B. Sarah (the wife of Robert) Cook at Communion. Mrs. Walker of Houssatonnock Number 4 with us also: and dined here as did Deacon Tainter. P.M. my Time in the week being exceedingly taken up with visiting, Lectures etc. I was obliged to use former preparations not being willing to Extemporize. I preached on Isa. 9.6, last Clause, from page 313th to 322. After Sermon, transacted the Affair of Mr. Joseph Joslin and his Wife who have taken John and Jane King Maynards Child to bring up and they promising etc. it was baptized. To Day I likewise read a Second Letter from the Church at Cold Spring, desiring a Council there. This Request was left to Consideration.

1760 September 15 (Monday). I visited Mr. Williams under his terrible Sore. N.B. Seth Rice being there I could not tarry long to any good purpose. P.M. I visited Abner Warrin who is Still lower, and there are Slender Hopes of him. Dr. Morse of Sutton, Dr. Willson and Dr. Crosby there together in Consultation; and conclude his Case next to Desperate.

1760 September 16 (Tuesday). Vid. Natalitia. Mrs. Martyn made us a Visit and dined here. P.M. Young Mr. Barrett and his Wife, Mrs. Crosmans Son and Daughter, together with two Ladys of Mr. Barretts Relations, made us a visit—but I could not wait upon any of these as at other Times. It was a great Trouble to me. As was, besides, my being Summoned to the Superior Court at Worcester. I rode to Mr. Williams to See him under his Lameness before I went out of Town. N.B. I dealt with him in Some plainness about his vices—prayed with him and parted with him as fearing we Should never See one another in this world again. Rode to Shrewsbury nigh Evening. At Mrs. Cushings were old Madam Prentice, Mr. Martyn and Mr. Stone. Were there also Mr. Badger and his Wife—So that I returned to lodge at Capt. Allens. There I found Mr. Pemberton and Elder Halsey, and therefore could not lodge there—yet Supped with them and went to the Tavern (Mr. Hen. Baldwins)—where I was kindly entertained.

1760 September 17 (Wednesday). Break fast at Capt. Allens with Pemberton and Halsey. Rode to Court but the Boxford Case with Mr. Rogers took up the Day. No body invited me to dinner. I went to Mr. Maccartys and dined well there: with Messrs. Martyn, Hall and Putnam of Pomfret. At Court p.m. the Same Case as a.m. At Eve at Mr. Maccarty’s. Lodged at Capt. Dolittles. N.B. He was of the Jury and did not come home all night. Mr. Oliver Carter lodged with me.

1760 September 18 (Thursday). The Leominster Case all Day. Dined at Judge Chandlers, he having Sent an Invitation to all the Ministers—Except Mr. Rogers and Marsh to come. Messrs. Pemberton, Martyn, Stone, Bridge, Goss, Harrington, Davis and Maccarty there. N.B. The joyfull News arrived of the British Forces taking Montreal on the 8th Current. To God all Glory! The Court was held, by the Leominster Case, till half after nine at night. Lodged as last night.

1760 September 19 (Friday). Broke fast at Mr. Bridge’s (the Barber). N.B. Capt. Ezra Taylor there. I returned home—and the more earnestly to see my poor Neighbour Williams (if he be yet alive)—till I met Dr. Crosby, who told me he was grown better, and his Hand in an hopefull Way. Dined at Mrs. Cushings. N.B. Paid Cousen Maynard her Interest, to May last. Visited and prayed with Mr. Williams before I went home. N.B. Aged Mrs. Lovell, Mr. William Pierce’s mother lies dead.

1760 September 20 (Saturday). Attend old Mrs. Lovells Funeral. N.B. Rode with Capt. Wood. Deacon Burnap dined here.

1760 September 21 (Sunday). Read Job 35. Having been gone so much of the Week, I was obliged to use former preparations. A.M. delivered part of the Exposition of Exod. XIX from p. 11 to page 18 (which is the End). P.M. Omitted the Reading—having Church Bus’ness and the Time elapsed. Preached on 1 Chron. 29.15. See Church-Records.

1760 September 22 (Monday). Rode to Southborough to talk with Mr. Stone about Cold Spring. He had read his Letter to the Church, and they had refused—but when I told him the Urgency of the Case; and especially Coll. Lincoln (who happened to come very Seasonably) Setting in with me; for he had come lately through Cold Spring, and Saw somewhat of their Necessity; he was gained over to resolve to lay it before his Church again, and to go if the Church Should consent. He also called at Coll. Brighams to warn him to get ready for the Journey. N.B. Coll. Lincoln and I dined at Mr. Stones. P.M. I rode to Marlborough to Mr. Hezekiah Maynards and to Lt. Brighams in quest of an Horse. Returning home, visited at Mr. Edmund Brighams.

1760 September 23 (Tuesday). A great Cold by yesterdays Ride. Was very aguish when I went to Bed last night. Visited Abner Warrin who is lower and weaker. I discoursed on the Evidences of Faith, whereby he might try himself, but I came away without his, or any one’s mentioning our Praying together. Dr. Crosby and Deacon Barretts Son Samuel (in his Return from New-Haven) dined here. P.M. Mrs. Cushing of Shrewsbury waited on her Mother, Old Madam Prentice here, to make us a Visit.

1760 September 24 (Wednesday). A.M. at Dr. Crosbys Desire I attended his Dressing Mr. Williams Sore Hand: and his Opening another in the Elbow of the Same Limb. Prayed there—but was very faint in Time of Prayer. P.M. Church Meeting on Cold Spring Affair—although the Meeting was appointed at this Time partly in Order to have a fuller Meeting than on Lords Day, it being then a rainy Time, yet there were but 16 of us together. We proceeded, and Voted Compliance. See Church Records. I also acquainted the Church that one Reason why I desired ‘em to meet on a week Day was to acquaint them that they must provide for my going as to an Horse to ride on. This I left them (after the Blessing) to Settle among them Selves. N.B. Mr. Thomas Twitchell here again in Order to his joining to the Church.

1760 September 25 (Thursday). So poorly with my Cold that I could not go from Home. P.M. Rebecca Hardy here on the Affair of joining with the Church. N.B. I wrote to Master Minot of Concord about his drawing a Quit Claim of Capt. Daniel Adams’s Right in what I bought of Mr. Lull. This I sent by Mr. Daniel Adams of Westborough. Wrote also to Mr. John Foxcroft, directing to the recording Adams’s Deed to Lull, and to search for the Record of Adams’s deed to Parks. Sent this by Mr. James Bowman junior to his Brother Joseph at Cambridge.

1760 September 26 (Friday). Go not from Home—by reason of Indisposition and most of the Family are ill with Colds. At Eve wrote by Mr. Beeton to Mr. Ebenezer Rice at Annapolis.

1760 September 27 (Saturday). Mr. Bridge here in his Way to Grafton—changing with Mr. Hutchinson.

1760 September 28 (Sunday). Read Job 36 and 1 Cor. 16. Preached a. and p.m. on Ps. 1, a.m. on v. 1, p.m. on v. 2 first Clause. Mr. Ithamar Bellows din’d with us. His Horse is left here for me to go my Journey upon tomorrow.

1760 September 29 (Monday). I undertook my Journey to Cold Spring—but I was very unfit for it by reason of a great Cold—and My Wife and all my Children were also oppressed with Colds and much indisposed. I called and took Mr. Edwards Whipple, the Churchs Delegate, along with me. Called at Mrs. Cushings. Mr. Whipple and I dined at Capt. Stearns’s (My Dinner was gratis—and I Suppose the Entertainment for my Horse was also—for they were very generous). We arrived at Mr. Forb.’s in Brookfield in Comfort our selves—but Daughter’s Breast very bad, and little Eli very ill. Mr. Whipple lodged at Mr. Thomas Hardy’s. I visited at my son Ebenezers but lodged (and my son Baldwin with me) at Mr. Forbush’s.

1760 September 30 (Tuesday). My Son Forbush’s Child so very ill; my Daughter also so bad with her Breast, that Mr. Forb. does not go to Cold Spring. Mr. Whipple and I go. Called at the Widow Cutlers and at Lulls. Arrived safe at Cold Spring, and dined though late there, at Mr. Forwards. The Council formed in the Eve. I was chose Moderator and prayed. Lodged (with Mr. Stone of Southborough) at Mr. Forwards.

1760 October 1 (Wednesday). The Council repairs to the Meeting House. Mr. Stone prays. [Marginal notation: Capt. Fuller, Lt. Fuller and Mr. Wilkins Sworn by Col. Timothy Dwight.] We hear and Examine Capt. Dwights Evidences—and Mr. Forwards Defence and Remarks thereon. I lodged as before. N.B. The Council was in a great Deal of deep Concern by Reason of 1.) Capt. Dwight and his Party not so joining with the Church in Calling the Council, as we had been informed. 2) The punctuallness of the Evidence against Mr. F. But Mr. F. has prepared a great Number of Affidavits from many of the Company who were under Capt. Fuller to the Contr. Adjourned to Mr. Forwards; where the Council sat at Evening.

1760 October 2 (Thursday). The Council sat again at the Meeting House. Mr. Forward, who was in his Vindication and Defence last Evening goes on with the Same to Day. N.B. as Mr. Wilkins’s Affidavit was rejected yesterday, because drawn up by Capt. Dwight, so [many?] brought by Mr. Forward to Day, were, on the same Account. All is Dark and distressing. We move to both Partys to agree. We adjourn to promote it. Capt. Dwight etc. make proposals which are ripened by Degrees—N.B. Sat at Eve at Capt. Dwights—and before we go to bed, though it was past Midnight, finished and Signed by each Party so that we Sung Praise to God (Dr. Watts’s Version of 133 Ps.). Prayed and adjourned to Mr. Forwards tomorrow morning 8 o’Clock.

1760 October 3 (Friday). We Copyed the Agreement—left an Extract from our Minutes concerning Mr. Forwards Character—and adjourned the Council without any particular Day: as in the agreement is requested. N.B. Two of Mr. Forwards Witnesses who had Sent their Affidavits Sworn before justice Epes arrived from Middletown or Danvers, last night, but too late for us to improve because of the Agreement. But this Morning they discover so much to one and another though they were not formally examined, as makes the generality Conclude that Capt. Fullers Evidence and those who were with him against Mr. Forward, were of little worth. So that Mr. Forwards Character is relieved very much and I hope will be wholly recovered. N.B. Had a Letter from Mr. Forbush yesterday, that his little son dyed the Day before: And his Wife’s Breast has been lanced by himself. To day he came up to Cold Spring; but we were come from Mr. Forwards—waited for him at Deacon Lymans. I Stopped at Mr. Lulls at Ware River—and in presence of Mr. Forbush he promises to pay me what I have Expended about his Deeds—and what it shall Cost to have them recorded: and for security to me, he declares he shall not expect nor desire that I Should give him a Deed of the 35 (or 37) Acre lot, till he pays me his Note of Hand, and these re-embursements. Mr. Whipple and I lodge at my son Forbush’s. Visited my Daughter in Law in Brookfield—who is near her Time. N.B. Laid out for Ebenezer 40/ for sundrys at Mr. Benjamin Hills, which I carryed up with me, and delivered to my son: and this Eve delivered him nigh 80/ in all this Journey 6£ old Tenor.

1760 October 4 (Saturday). Took leave of my daughter Forb. (who is more Comfortable) and of all of them early this morning. Mr. Whipple and I Sat out Some time before sun rise. Got to Mr. Eatons to Breakfast. Mr. Stone and Coll. Brigham lodged there, and had not broke fast. Called at Mr. Maccartys. We all (four of us, who were of the Council) dined at Capt. Curtis’s—where were old Madam Prentice, Mr. Jabez Richardson—and one Mr. Dana of Ashford. This last travelled a good way with us. N.B. Heard that Mr. James Maynard was badly wounded by a Bull’s hooking and tossing him. We therefore went that way to see him. A great Mercy of God that he was preserved from Death. When I came home found my Wife ill, confined, and Dr. Willson with her. She had a great Cold, Cough and faintness. The Doctor took a Pint of Blood from her. N.B. hear that Mr. Fessenden is to preach at Shrewsbury tomorrow.

1760 October 5 (Sunday). I read Job 37 and 2 Cor. 1. Preached a.m. on Rev. 1.8. P.M. on Isa. 45.22 to p. 11. Then recapitulated to p. 17, and from thence used the most of the uses to the End. N.B. Mr. Martyn and his Wife are gone to Cambridge to see Mrs. Monis, who is sick. Divers North End People at Meeting here. Master Richard Martyn dined with us. Read the Proclamation for Thanksgiving. Was so full of fear least I should forget That, that I forgot to acquaint the Church of our success at Cold-Spring: and made no Mention of the Death of my Grandson, Eli Forbush junior. My wife seems Somewhat better.

1760 October 6 (Monday). Mr. William Torrey of Mendon here to look of my other place and I went with him p.m. to Shew it to him. Capt. Brigham brought us a Cart load of Sand from the Pond. At Eve Mr. Joseph Grout to be Examined, instructed etc.

1760 October 7 (Tuesday). Training appointed for all Day but the Captain was so ill he held only the forenoon Exercise. I prayed with them and dined at Capt. Woods with them. N.B. Capt. Taplin among us—he being come from, and belongs to Fort Cumberland. My Sons, Some of them hurt by an Horse’s running loose with my Chair. Breck chiefly hurt; he and Samme Being thrown out of the Chair, when the Horse broke the Tackling, and broke loose from Chair and all, and run off, home: It being Mr. Beetons. But it was wonderfull the Boys were not destroyed. D.G.

1760 October 8 (Wednesday). Alex. brought from Mr. Parker Seven Barrells of Cyder, made at Capt. Maynards Mill. He had Mr. Nurse’s Waggon to bring it in. At Eve Ensign Asa Brigham came from Boston, but full of Grief, as he had undertaken to bring me up a Large Looking Glass from my Brother William but nothing besides the Frame and the Case it was put into, remained whole. The Glass was dashed into numberless Pieces.

1760 October 9 (Thursday). Thanksgiving for the Reduction of Canada. I preached on Ezra 9.13.14. No body dined with us though I invited Monsieur LeBlanc and all his Family. It was a Day of Great Joy and Gladness—but O how provoking it will be to God if we Should turn away again from Him, and Still committ abominations in His Sight!

1760 October 10 (Friday). I visited Mr. Elijah Rices wife, and LeBlanc, also Abner Warrin. Dr. Wilson there and comes home with me to dine with me; my Wife is Still but weakly. Coll. Brigham here and lends me 50£ old Tenor. Joseph Grout and his wife here on the 10th.

1760 October 11 (Saturday). Visited Mr. Williams. [P.M.?] Rebecca Hardy Examined. [Marginal notation: On the 11th Lett the Shop to Moses Wheelock of Wrentham, for 6 months (his Brother Culluck chiefly transacting), for 4£ Old Tenor.] Alex—having thrashed out our Oats—winnows up about 16 B. P.M. He cutts up and gathers in the Corn in the Orchard. Nathan Kenny helps him with their Waggon, and I have one of Mr. Nurse’s Horse’s [sic] to go to Southborough, Mr. Stone being come here.

1760 October 12 (Sunday). I preached at Southborough a.m. on Eph. 1.7, last Clause. P.M. on Ezra 9.13.14. Mr. Stone here on Ps. 44.3 and on Rom. 12.1. He propounded Joseph Grout and his wife, and Rebecca Hardy. May the Lord add His Blessing to our Endeavors! We each of us returned respectively at Evening.

1760 October 13 (Monday). Visited Abner Warren. Mr. Fessenden dines with us: he is returning over to this Part of the Town to keep school. Deacon Knowlton comes to desire me to assist in a Fast to be kept at Shrewsbury on the 29th Current. N.B. The Precinct Met to See whether they would make some Addition to my Sallery for this Year. And whether they would come into some way to get my wood this year. As they Sat up the Notification without me, So they wholly transacted with out me; nor sent me any message at Night of what they have done. But I would humbly beg Grace from God to Prepare me for His holy and sovereign Will! N.B. Mr. Artimas Bruce came for my wife and carryed her to Mrs. Tainters Groaning. Capt. Fay, Capt. Wood, Deacon Tainter, Lieutenant Bruce, Francis Whipple, Phinehas Hardy, David Maynard, Edwards Whipple, Ebenezer Maynard, Hezekiah Pratt, James Miller junior, David Batherick, were all that came to the Meeting.

1760 October 14 (Tuesday). My wife not returned. I rode to the South East Corner of the Town. Visited all the Families there. Dined at Mr. Chamberlins. Catechized at Mr. Joslins; but by reason of the Rain had but few to attend. By Desire Sung after Catechizing; but almost alone. At good old Mr. Bradish’s, and at Jonas’s. There were his Father and Mother in Law, Morton from Poquaog. When I got home my wife was here Mrs. Tainter being well o’bed: Neither did Mrs. P________ find any great Inconvenience by her going.

1760 October 15 (Wednesday). Walked to Mr. James Maynards to See him. When I returned found Miss Judith and Miss Mary Stone here. Deacon Tainter at Eve.

1760 October 16 (Thursday). Rebecca Hardy here, with her Relation. Mr. Bacon of Plymouth going to Ashuelot, dines here. P.M. Mr. Solomon Baker brings me a present of a Barrel of Cyder and two Bags of Apples. Mr. Fessenden and Dr. Baker here, at Tea. N.B. Received an unhandsome Letter from Mr. Hutchinson; and prepare some Reply to it.

1760 October 17 (Friday). P.M. Mrs. Maynard and her sister Witt of Narraganset No. 6, made us a Visit. N.B. an ugly drunken, Swearing, raging Pedler here. At Eve Mrs. Walker of Houssatonock No. 4 here and Supped, but did not lodge at our House. Mr. Joseph Grout and his Wife bring their Relations. N.B. Heard to Day that my Daughter in Law is brought to Bed; that She has a Son; and that they call his Name Thomas. Blessed be God for His Great Mercy and Goodness!

1760 October 18 (Saturday). Mr. Ebenezer Maynard here and pays me in Cash 22£ old Tenor—This including what he had paid me and laid out for me, and a Number of Notes, amounted to £78.7.0.3 old Tenor. Alexander gets Mr. Rice’s Team which Mr. Maynard putts to rights, and he and Breck go to getting in Stalks, Beans etc. Received a Letter from Bowman at College inclosing Capt. Daniel Adams’s Deed to Mr. Lull.

1760 October 19 (Sunday). In much Weakness of Mind, and difficulty with my own Heart. I poorly undertake and go through the Services of the Day. Read Job 38 to v. 22, 2 Cor. 2. Preached all Day upon Ps. 1.2. And earnestly beg the Grace that I may learn and practise the Art of Divine Meditation.

1760 October 20 (Monday). It was my Design to have got in my Corn last Thursday, but Deacon Tainter and Capt. Wood advised to let it alone till this Day; I therefore did so. To Day Mr. Tainter brought a Load of Wood and brought in the Corn from the Island, being 4 Load. Capt. Wood and Mr. Zebulun Rice came in the afternoon and help’d in Cutting it up etc. At Eve came Mr. Grout with his young Horse for me to ride to Ministers Meeting.

1760 October 21 (Tuesday). I rode to Stow, to Ministers Meeting. I Stopped at Mr. Smiths, who is not well enough to go. Master Fessenden came there, to me, and was my Company from Marlborough. I Supposed he was going with Design to be examined—but I said nothing to him about it to Day. There were but few at Mr. Gardners. Mr. Loring (who went home at Eve), Mr. Davis and Mr. Mellen. I prayed before the Concio; which was by Mr. Gardner on 2 Kings 13.20.

1760 October 22 (Wednesday). Mr. Loring returned to the Association and Mr. Smith came. Mr. Fessenden was backward about Examination, but at length asked to be. He was [also?] interrogated concerning his Joining with the Church—he said he had with Mr. Martyns. (It was last Lords Day.) He (at Mr. Mellens motion) construed some Verses in the Greek Testament. Mr. Gardner enquired what Books he had read, in Divinity. He answered Willards Body, part of Charnock’s works—etc. etc. He delivered a large Confession of his Faith. Mr. Loring asked him whether he did really and uprightly believe thus, and whether these Should be the Subjects of his Preaching? He answered yes, he did design thus. He also was desired by me to let the Association See something of his Ability in sermonizing and he produced a sermon on [blank] and read the principal Heads of it. Upon these Examinations he was approbated. The public Lecture was by Mr. Davis on Prov. 4.23. P.M. I rode to Concord. Visited Mrs. Bliss—her Husband was gone to Boston. She herself had been sick. My Business being chiefly with Master Minot and therefore I put up there. Supped at the Doctors. N.B. They have News that Mrs. Monis dyed last night. I was requested to abbreviate an Inscription for the Grave-stone of the late excellent Mrs. Minot.

1760 October 23 (Thursday). Mr. Minot prepares a Quit Claim for Capt. Adams to sign of his Right to what he sold to Mr. Jon Parks late of Pomfret. I also left with him 50/ old Tenor for Capt. Daniel Taylor of Townshend, with a Letter to him. I then hastened to Marlborough. Dined at Mr. Smiths, and preached his Lecture (as he had requested yesterday). My Text was 2 Cor. 10.4. Arrived safely at Home in the Evening. To God be Glory! Mr. Fessenden here. N.B. I received yesterday his Promise to preach for me next Lords Day; but he told me a Man had been with him to desire him to preach at the North End because Mr. Martyn was gone to Cambridge to the Funeral of Mrs. Monis, and would not return to preach himself but the people would be without, if Mr. Fessenden should not go. I therefore consented to his going there; and engaged him to preach for me the Lords Day following.

1760 October 24 (Friday). Was at Squire Bakers. N.B. his son had swapped away the Mare he had of me, but the Squire represented the Affair of my Trading with his son as if I had sold her to his Son as a good Saddle Horse, whereas they found her to be fit for no mans Use: And that many Neighbours had known that She was used to bad Tricks. But I answered that his son had been made acquainted with what she was; and that I was not to blame in it; that I wished also that his son had not done any thing about her. For She had for Some Time done very well with us as to the Saddle—My wife, Daughters and little Boys being well able to manage her with out Trouble or Difficulty. Bought and Paid for a stuff Gown of Mr. Hill, 7 yards at 14/ old Tenor per yard. P.M. Mrs. Hill to visit my wife. Evening Mr. Ebenezer Chamberlin. Alexander and Breck go to Deacon Bonds to Husking.

1760 October 25 (Saturday). Mr. Daniel Forb. dines here. N.B. He brings a News Paper in which is advertized a blue Great Coat with Velvet Cape, lent about last Election time and Supposed to be left at some Friends House; which it is desired may be returned to the owner. This I suppose is Mr. Eliots and which he supposed he had lent to me—the Evening after I had preached for him—but I know nothing in the World of it. P.M. Mr. Fessenden here going over to the North End to preach there tomorrow. N.B. In private Conversation (Since in his late Examination the Ministers omitted it) I asked him whether he could uprightly and sincerely Declare that as far as he knew himself he had reason to hope his End and Aim in undertaking to preach was not Carnal, but the Glory of God and to promote the Salvation of Men. He answered affirmatively.

1760 October 26 (Sunday). Dr. Ball, late in the morning, called at the Door, to desire me to visit Neighbour Seth Morse’s Child, which he thought would dye before Noon or to come when meeting was over. I had no Horse; and it was too late; I went not. Read Job 38 from v. 22 and 2 Cor. 3. Preached a.m. on Ps. 1.2, latter part. P.M. repeated parts of Several Sermons on the Humiliation and Exaltation of Christ from Rev. 1.18 from page 139 to 152 omitting pages 141, 2, 3, 4, and then from page 153 to page 159, omitting what is inserted in the Bottoms of pages 154, 5, 6, 7. N.B. One Mr. Everton of Douglass, dined here: as did Mrs. Eunice Cook (Wife of Mr. Cornelius Cook) of Wrentham; who desires She may be dismissed to the Church where She lives; which was done this afternoon. N.B. Mr. Thomas Twitchell had neglected to come to me, either last Week or the Week before with his Relation; and had omitted it to Day. And his Admission had been deferred one Sabbath already; neither could it be put off without great Inconvenience any longer; Therefore at noon I Sent for him—he came—I was obliged to take from his Mouth a few principal Things, and recollecting as well as I could what had passed in the Several Times of his Examination, I wrote something for him, which was his Relation to the Church. He and Joseph Grout, Mrs. Sarah Grout and Miss Rebecca Hardy were admitted into the Church. I also baptized a Child of Mr. Elijah Rice’s. Appointed the Communion and preparatory Lecture. After all these Services walked on foot to Mr. Morse’s to See their Child, which I prayed with—and then rode home to my Family Exercises. May God pardon my Defects, accept of my Endeavors, and add His Blessing to the Means of Grace for Jesus Sake!

1760 October 27 (Monday). My Sons thrash Rye. Mr. Abraham Beemans Wife here to be examined. At Eve visit Mr. Williams who is ill of a Fever.

1760 October 28 (Tuesday). Was engaged Strictly in preparing a Sermon for Shrewsbury Fast. Mrs. Eunice Cook here in the Evening with her sister Hardy, received her Dismission.

1760 October 29 (Wednesday). Fast at Shrewsbury. I rode up on Mr. Pratts Mare and which got away from me at Eve—So that I was obliged to ride down a Creature of Mrs. Cushings—and Samuel Willard (Son of Mr. Daniel Willard) rode with me home, to carry back the Horse I rode upon, and he lodged here. Mr. Morse Somewhat unexpectedly came to Mrs. Cushings, and he preached in the Forenoon and prayed in the Afternoon. His Text was 1 Cor. 12 ult. Mr. Stone prayed before his sermon. P.M. I preached on Mat. 14.12. N.B. as I went I was very much Surprized and troubled to See people at Work on Such a Day as this. Particularly at the Blacksmiths—and Others in Other Business. These Indecencies I could not but, with some Severe Resentment reprove. After the Exercises the two Deacons and Mr. Ebenezer Keyes came to us at Mrs. Cushings, thanked us, and requested Directions, if we had any particular to give them other than had been given, in their present Circumstances. N.B. Mr. Maccarty and his Wife rode by us as we went to Meeting p.m. And they returned upwards again at Evening without Coming to Meeting. Besides that they also hindered Mrs. Allen (as I Suppose) from Coming. For there, I conclude, they went; and Mrs. Allen was absent. I think it a great Impropriety that people professing Religion, but especially Ministers, Should act in this Manner—So much out of Character; upon Such Occasions as these.

1760 October 30 (Thursday). Mr. Fessenden was to preach my Lecture if I could get no Body else. I could get no Body else; but neither could I have any Help from him: for though I wrote to him my Dependence, he made Return that he was not well and had taken physick. A.M. Went to Neighbour Morse’s, whose Child is dead. Visited Mr. Elijah Rice’s Wife; who has been delivered and yet lives, and has some liveliness. I preached on Ps. 119.77, using Sermon on Prov. 3.17 from p. 13 to 21. The more, probably, at Meeting, from Expectation of Mr. Fessenden. N.B. Mr. Ebenezer Chamberlin brought me a Barrell and half of Cyder and a Bushel Bagg of Apples. Also a Bag from Mr. Belknap.

1760 October 31 (Friday). Attended upon the Burying of Neighbour Seth Morse’s Child. While I was gone, Coll. Buckminster and his Wife here from Brookfield. N.B. Mr. Fessenden here and tarrys to Night. N.B. My wife made me a gown of Plad and striped Stuff—7 yards of Each. The plad from Boston, 22/6 per yard—the Stuff from Mr. Hills, 14/ per yard. The whole, £12.15.8 Old Tenor. N.B. A Quarter of Beef from Seth Miller, @ 1/6 per pound. Weighed 117 Pound.

1760 November 1 (Saturday). Master Fessenden here with us not well. His two Brothers here in their Journey to Rutland. I visit Mrs. Rolf at her Desire, to see her little Boy who has an extraordinary Swelling upon his Head. Master Fessenden dines here. Deacon Tainter brings Wood and a Barrel of Cyder.

1760 November 2 (Sunday). Read Job 39, 2 Cor. 4. Preached on Song 6 ult. Administered the Lords Supper. Mrs. Dolly Rice dined here. P.M. Text Rev. 1.18. N.B. Used all I prepared in the forenoon, though as many pages as ordinarily might serve for two Exercises; but it could not be divided. But Chiefly, I had many Services last week, and relyed upon Mr. Fessenden to preach, but by his illness was unable to. The Lord accept of my (as I hope) Sincere Endeavors!

1760 November 3 (Monday). Mr. Daniel Forb. works for me, in underpining my House—and gives it. I Catechized a. and p.m. at the Meeting House. P.M. Mr. Martyn comes to desire me to preach for him next Sabbath, if Mr. Fessenden for me.

1760 November 4 (Tuesday). Mr. Daniel Forbush underpining a.m. N.B. I visit Mr. Nathan Maynards Child which is sick. P.M. preach at Mrs. Grouts on 2 Cor. 4.16 to p. 15. Was obliged to borrow an Horse at Capt. Woods. Returned with him: N.B. his wife having been confined some time, and chid me smartly for not visiting her, I tarried a little while the forepart of the Evening.

1760 November 5 (Wednesday). Walked to Deacon Tainters. Breakfast there. N.B. A famous Training at Capt. Stephen Sadlers at Upton. N.B. Young Mrs. Tainter shews me a Dream which so impressed her that She had writ it out: and wanted my Judgment of it. I visited Abner Warrin. When I returned home, received a 2d Letter from Mr. Hutchinson. P.M. Persis Rice comes from Abner Warrins, to assist my wife in making a Plad Gown out of one I had left off. At Night Daniel Forb. junior depending on it that I had seen Abner Whipple whom he had got to Come from Marlborough to testifie in the behalf of Said Daniel and against Jonathan How but though Abner had been here yet I had not seen him, for I was from Home.

1760 November 6 (Thursday). Cousen Maynard dined here with us. P.M. Mr. Ol. Carter from Leominster. He has agreed with Mr. Fessenden for 3 Days preaching; and wants me to go one of them to administer the Sacrament but I refuse. Dr. Wilson of Hopkinton visits me. But I was forced to leave him to go to the Catechetical Exercise to Young Women. 30 attended. Preached to them from Rom. 5.12, from page 9th to p. 16. N.B. Rhoda, Sarah and Hezekiah, Children of Ensign Jeduthun Fay, came here after Catechizing and want to be baptized. I kindly treated, and instructed them. N.B. Moses Wheelock comes to the shop.

1760 November 7 (Friday). Mr. Parker came to have me send some Body to thrash with him. Mrs. P__________ p.m. walked to Mr. Hill’s and visited Several Neighbours. A Thing Somewhat unusual for her to do. At Eve Mr. Fessenden and Deacon Tainter.

1760 November 8 (Saturday). This Day completes the 36th Year of Gods Patience with this Church; and with Me, Since my Ordination, To which I was this Day too inadvertent, even until Evening—though some Time ago I thought of it, and marked it in my Almanack that I might the better remember it. But now at Evening I desire to be deeply humbled and take Shame to myself for my great Negligence and unprofitableness—which O that God would in His infinite Mercy Pardon and forgive through the Blood of Jesus Christ! And O that I might be quickened and Sanctifyed by His good Spirit of Grace, and made useful and Serviceable while I remain—and finally, Save my own Soul and them that hear me! N.B. Mr. Joseph Bowman here. Carrys two Deeds of Mr. Lulls (viz. of Mr. Jonathan Parks to Lull) to Cambridge to be recorded.

1760 November 9 (Sunday). The Day was very uncomfortable, rainy and stormy, yet to gratifie Mr. Martyn I rode over to the North End. Stopped at Young Mr. Martyns and accepted of their Invitation to breakfast with them though I had taken something at Home. I preached a. and p.m. on Mat. 16.24. Took young Mr. Martyn to Dinner with me at his Fathers. His Father, Mother and Brother (Richard) being all gone to Cambridge. After exercises was well refreshed at his House again. I returned home at Evening. Mr. Fessenden had preached for me. A.M. on [blank], p.m. on Mat. 5.4. He lodges here.

1760 November 10 (Monday). I was greatly oppressed with my heavy and many Burdens and Cares. Sometimes almost overwhelmed. From the abundance of my Heart, my Mouth overflowed at Table, when at Dinner. May God be Pleased to forgive what was displeasing to Him and help me by His almighty Grace! P.M. Mr. Silas Warrin of Grafton brings me 52 pounds of Cheese, for which I am to give him 2/6 old tenor per pound. I finished Mr. Clarks Vindication of Summer Morning Conversation. N.B. Alexander thrashes Rye with Mr. Parker at the old Barn.

1760 November 11 (Tuesday). So he does to Day. Breck thrashes at home both Yesterday and to Day. I Sent for Deacon Tainters old Stallion, upon his Offer to ride him and use him for his keeping. I rode up to Mr. Phinehas Hardys and dined there, in my way to Mr. Elijah Rice’s, whose wife I visit in her very low Condition; but expresses her self as a good Christian, with a good Hope through Grace, and gives her Testimony to Religion. I prayed with her, and took Solemn Leave of her. Visit at Moses Warrins, Samuel Hardys and old Mr. Samuel Fays. At Eve Mr. Daniel Forb. points part of the Underpinning in my Cellar. Mr. Benjamin Tainter one Load of Wood to Day. N.B. I have heard of the great unkindness and Injustice (as I conceive) of a certain Neighbour of mine, in trying to Discourage Mr. William Torrey in buying my old Place, by greatly disparaging it. This was my principal Parishioner. May God convince him, and forgive him!

1760 November 12 (Wednesday). Wrote to my Brother Parkman of the Disaster of the Looking-Glass and to desire him to send me another Barrell of Flower. Sorrowful Tidings of the Death of Miss Nabby Winter! May God Sanctify it to the Distressed Parents, and to my dear Sarah, who is much wounded by this grievous Stroke! Mr. Forb. from Brookfield with his Neece Hannah. They, and her sister Rebecca, dine with us. P.M. he visits his own Father. N.B. Breck helps Mr. Parker Winnow. I receive 8 Bushell of Rye (Spring Rye) for my part. Alexander winnows at home.

1760 November 13 (Thursday). Mr. Forb. comes from his Fathers, and goes his Journey to Cambridge and Boston—carrys his neece with him. Went over to t’other House, and Mr. Parker and I divided the Hay in the Bays. I went to Mr. Seth Rice’s to See his aged Mother. Considering her long Confinement and great Infirmitys, I talked with her about a Sermon to her. She was glad to hear it and did much Desire it. I proposed it to Mr. Rice, but (poor man!) his answer was that he Should not concurr in it. However, he said he would not oppose it. Therefore his Mother, his Wife and I agreed to have an Exercise there, if providence permitt. I visited at Mr. Phinehas Maynard’s and at Mr. Adonijah Rice’s. The Man not at home. The woman exceeding full of Complaints—especially of her Poverty. She Read me a Paper of her writing one Lords Day. When I came home heard the News of Mr. Cooks, of Sudbury, Death. Alas! How frequently these Breaches occurr! May I take the Solemn Warning and Stand ready!

1760 November 14 (Friday). My Son Baldwin, from Boston here—is going home with Quantitys of Goods in two Carts—being about to Set up Trading. I have Deacon Tainters Horse here, but to day does Nothing.

1760 November 15 (Saturday). Deacon Tainter brought Wood—but I dont know upon what foot. Deacons Horse goes home.

1760 November 16 (Sunday). Read Job 40, 2 Cor. 5. Preached on Ps. 1.2, latter part. P.M. on 2 Cor. 5.15, last Clause. After Some Introduction I used Sermon on Rev. 1.18 from p. 169 to 176, with a loose Paper in p. 173. Mrs. Sarah Smith, Widow, dined here.

1760 November 17 (Monday). Had many Thoughts of going to Sudbury, to Mr. Cooks Funeral, but It is far down upon the Road to Boston, whither I ought to go if I had Money—but am not furnished; neither have I any Horse. There are many Ministers nigher (I Suppose 15). I am not sent for, So that it can’t be a Disappointment nor is there need of Me. However, it proves too difficult Weather, Snow storm, for me to turn out and therefore I must discharge what Duty I can at Home. Roger Bruce here at Daniel Forb.’s Desire to give me Opportunity to discourse with him about the Affair of Jonathan How, who, as they affirm had Spread an Evil Report of the Said Forbushs Wife, when She was Persis Crosby.

1760 November 18 (Tuesday). Mrs. Rice (Elijah’s Wife) Sends for me. They think She will not continue. I rode on Neighbour Newtons Beast there. Found her very low—but willing, and Choosing to die. Prayed with her—and again took leave. Mr. Moses Warrin asked me [to] dine there, which I did—and he rode with me home. N.B. On Consideration of the Cause of Religion I would not send my first Draught of an Answer to Mr. Hutchinsons Second Letter. I wrote a meek, moderate one.

1760 November 19 (Wednesday). Mr. Joseph Baker puts his Horse into my sleigh, and drives to Mr. Martyns to visit aged Mr. Monis, who is newly come up from Cambridge to live there. I dined there. In returning at Eve called at Capt. Maynards and Mr. Parkers. This Eve Mr. Forb. brought my good sister Barrett, from Cambridge here.

1760 November 20 (Thursday). I visited and prayed with Abner Warrin. Mr. Forb. preached for me a Lecture to Young people, and particularly to the young Society. His Text Prov. 4.7. N.B. Mr. Fessenden dined here. Mr. Forb. and Sister Barret left us after Lecture and go on their Journey.

1760 November 21 (Friday). Breck begins to learn Latin again. P.M. Mrs. Rhoda Fay and At Eve her Brother Hezekiah to be examined. N.B. I now take Deacon Tainters stallion.

1760 November 22 (Saturday). Mrs. P__________ more apprehensive that her Time is near. Mr. Elijah Rice comes with the heavy Tidings that his Wife is Dead—that She dyed yesterday about an Hour before Sun Setting—in her Senses, in Faith and Calmness. May We dye as the righteous! In order to which May we live as they!

1760 November 23 (Sunday). Read Job 41, 2 Cor. 6. Preached a. and p.m. on Ps. 1, first Comma. At the Close desired the people to come seasonably to meeting. Told ‘em that whereas Some had been wont to say that if I would come seasonably, the people would come Seasonably, I had for Several sabbaths come somewhat Seasonably; but it was not to Effect, but that Many persons still came late. I observed that in the publick Worship, the former part usually was adoration of the divine Being—that many persons lost that—for I had taken notice concerning Some, that for the Space of a Twelve month they were but very few Times present at the Beginning of the Prayer. I assured the assembly I Should endeavor to be Seasonable unless Some extraordinary Occurrence prevented; or Persons unreasonably detained me with their particular Cases. N.B. I had desired them to come at 11 o’Clock exactly on the approching Solemnity; and to come together and not so Scatteringly as had been the Custom. At Eve was much indisposed and went to bed early.

1760 November 24 (Monday). Have had a very poor Night—Pain in my right Cheek chiefly. And it proving a Wet Day, I went not to the Burial of Mr. Elijah Rice’s Wife—that is to his House which is in Upton—but sent him a Note how it was with me. Mr. Joseph Morse of Hopkinton dined with us. P.M. Mr. Benjamin Tainter bears me a message from Mr. Elijah Rice who waits upon the Corps, and the Procession are moving along requesting I would pray with them somewhere. I directed them into the Meeting House; and prayed there. I went not to the Grave, because of my Indisposition, and because of the Wet.

1760 November 25 (Tuesday). My Sons, with Mr. Pratts Team, cart muck out of the Stables. P.M. Nathan Kenny helps them and they get out the Summer Dung and muck of the Cow-yard. P.M. Mr. Fessenden here. Also Mrs. Maynard. I asked Mr. Fessenden to preach the Thanksgiving Sermon. He answered that he had none—what Text would I give him etc.? My Son William came from Brookfield.

1760 November 26 (Wednesday). I was So indisposed that I concluded it was best to have Mr. Fessenden prepare. I had also good forwardness of Preparation—mine was on Exod. 15.11. P.M. Mr. Fessenden came—and Stydyed [sic] and lodged here. N.B. a Letter from Mr. Hutchinson by Thomas Stow, concerning my Preaching at Providence which is upon much more welcome Subject than some [others?].

1760 November 27 (Thursday). Publick Thanksgiving but the Weather so Stormy I did not go out. Mr. Fessenden went to meeting when it was about 7 m. past 11. There being nobody but Mr. Batherick, besides my Family, he waited a while till somebody else came. Allowing my Watch to be a little too fast, he could not be supposed to begin before 11. But I had requested the Congregation would not exceed 11. I had promised to be Seasonable. The Congregation did not assemble in Season. He preached on Ps. 107.8. He came home 5 m. before One. Many Seemed Disappointed at the Exercise finishing So soon. Am informed Mr. Blanc was at meeting. Billy invited him to come here to dine, but he chose to go to Deacon Tainters. Mr. Fessenden lodged here. I had put on Blister and a Poultis—by means of which the Swelling of my Face went down, and Pains of my Teeth ceased. D. Gr.!

1760 November 28 (Friday). Mr. Fessenden—and my 4 Boys went to school. Billy after dinner left us. I walked abroad. Mr. Rhody Smith here. At Eve no Hezekiah Fay (as was appointed him) here. Neighbour Zebulun Rice at Eve makes me a Visit.

1760 November 29 (Saturday). I rode up to Mr. Bakers. Alexander and Breck winnow Rye. My wife exercised with Pains—Some of them She thinks of Cramp.

1760 November 30 (Sunday). I rode over to Mr. Martyns and he hither. I preached on Mark 8.34 a. and p.m. and lodged at Mr. Martyns. N.B. He found and read a Letter of Mr. Monis’s to Mr. Woodrow in Scotland, in which there is an Account of his (Mr. Monis’s) Birth, Education etc.

1760 December 1 (Monday). I rode to Mr. Daniel Wheelers to engage Nero for my son Baldwin. Returned home. At Eve the Committee met here, viz. Mr. Whipple, Phinehas Hardy, Daniel Forbush, and Ebenezer Maynard (Capt. Wood was gone out of Town) to enquire into what Deficiencys there have been unpaid. And I gave ‘em such Account as they well accepted. N.B. Mr. Ebenezer Maynard paid me the full of his Rate for last year—and I gave him a Receipt in full (of all that he was appointed to collect for me for the year past, viz. 66£ 13.4). Hephzibah Maynard came, and lodges here. N.B. Mrs. P__________ has had So much pain, that She is almost ready to threaten we shall be alarmed very Soon.

1760 December 2 (Tuesday). Alexander thrashes Oates at the old Place, all Day.

1760 December 3 (Wednesday). He does also this forenoon. P.M. Preached my Lecture on Job 21.14, former part and 15 latter part. Used sermon on Prov. 3.17 from page 21 to 30. After Lecture Mr. Fessenden, Mrs. Maynard etc. We hear Dr. Gott has the Small pox in Brookfield. Sarah Fay (Daughter of Ensign Jeduthun) here to be examined; but such a Variety of Company here I thought I could not composedly and profitably attend upon her; yet I did Spend a little Time in instructing and directing her. Deacon Tainter was also here.

1760 December 4 (Thursday). Jej. Priv. precipue propter presentem statum Uxoris Chariss: propter Statum Populihujusce ad Curam meam Commissi; and Eucharistiam appropinquentem. At Eve Mr. Zebulun Rice, and his Brother Oliver from Hardwick, here. Deacon Tainter also. I read Dr. Mayhews Discourse on the Death of Judge Sewall.4

1760 December 5 (Friday). Towards Eve I rode to Mr. Edwards Whipples. Spoke with Mr. Pratt about assisting me when my Wife Should need the Help of Women: He was immediately very ready, to my great Relief, considering the tenderness of my Health.

1760 December 6 (Saturday). Mr. Fessenden here. Daily Conversation is about the Small pox, which we hear of here and there. Tis feared that Jacob Garfield at Capt. Maynards has it. We don’t carry home Hephzy (who has been with us all the week, from Monday) because of it.

1760 December 7 (Sunday). I omitted the public Reading. Preached on Exod. 15.11 a. and p.m. Administered the Sacrament. My Wife not at meeting. Deacon Forbush, Deacon Tainter, Master Fessenden, Mrs. Maynard, dined here. The Small pox not yet come out upon Jacob Garfield, and tis hoped will not. Hephzibah goes home. At Eve a Letter to Sarah from her Brother Baldwin at Brookfield, informing that last Thursday night Dr. Benjamin Gott dyed of the Small Pox. I Sent for Capt. Wood, who was lately come home from a Journey to Brookfield to come here and acquaint me with what he had heard of it. He came; but had not returned home that way—and therefore could say but little new, of the Matter. How sorrowful this stroke to poor Mrs. Gott! And to that Neighbourhood. But the Lord has done it!

1760 December 8 (Monday). Mr. Francis Whipple came and took the Account of Mr. Fessendens Board here last Spring to carry to the Town-Meeting, which is at t’other End of the Town. At Eve Mr. Phinehas Hardy informed me that the Town would not provide a School—nor money to pay a school-Master. I gave him a Line to put into the Notification for a precinct Meeting.

1760 December 9 (Tuesday). Sad News of Jacob Garfields being broke out. P.M. Sarah Fay here to be examined and I attended upon it. Mr. Joseph Baker takes my two fat Piggs, which weigh 150—and he brings me a Pig from his Brother Solomons (which he says weighed there 136), which I am to have for the Pigs he carryed away, he allowing me the Difference between their Weight @ 16d per pound.

1760 December 10 (Wednesday). Deacon Tainter and Capt. Wood came to kill the Baker Pig, but first weigh it; and though he had had a good Breakfast, yet he weigh’d but 130. I sent for Mr. Baker, who came; and on his part, tells me he had weighed at home the pigs he had of me—and, though last night, when he weighed them they fell Short but half a Pound a piece—yet this morning he weighed them and they fell short 16 Pound. But we left our Affair in the Hands of the two Neighbours here with us, who proceeded to kill the Baker Pig. Deacon Tainter dined here. Fresh News that Jacob Garfield has the Small Pox at Capt. Maynards. Mr. Fessenden came from the Very House, and informs here that it is now beyond all Doubt. May God please to pity the poor Youth—all immediately concerned; and all of us! My wife endures great Pain and Distress from Day to Day. I desire tenderly to sympathize, and devoutly to Committ her Case to Him who alone can relieve and help.

1760 December 11 (Thursday). Deacon Tainter came and tells me the Affair of the Piggs is Settled that the Weight Shall be allowed according to what they were at each of their homes, viz. mine 150, and Mr. Bakers 136; which gives 14 lb. overplus for Baker to pay me for @ 16d per pound as we at first agreed. Deacon weighs the Dead pig and finds it (as he says) 96. He cutts and Salts it up for me. N.B. Deacon was troubled with me that I would not consent to give 2/ per pound for Bakers Pork, and so settle the Affair that way; where as that was what I had all along refused to do—because 2/ was the Boston price, and no allowance for carrying down and besides he said they had weighed my pigs and they fell short 15. N.B. one Mr. Fuller from Middleton here to get Deacons Testimony about an Horse he had cutt for Terrant Putnam of Sutton. I write the Testimony at the Deacons Request: and he signs it. P.M. I preached at Mr. Seth Rice’s to his aged mother; from Phil. 1.21. N.B. Mr. Rice did not come till the Exercise was over. Capt. Wood was he that ‘Companyed me. We visited Mr. James Maynard. And I Stopped at Capt. Woods in my Return home. My wife an Evening of great Pain.

1760 December 12 (Friday). Capt. Rolf came to see me (now first) after his Return and tells me had no success in his Attempts at Albany to get my late son Thomas’s Wages: That he applyed to Coll. Bradstreet, pay-Master, Several Times: That he presented a Memorial to General Amherst, and waited upon him personally; but he referred him to Coll. Bradstreet; to whom he went in Vain—being turned off with various pretences; but that he finally flattly denyed him. It was the Same with the other Cases he was entrusted with, viz. the Widow How’s, and the Relations of William Stone deceas’d.

1760 December 13 (Saturday). My Wife Still in much Pain, but holds up. P.M. Mr. Fessenden here. He has been at Capt. Maynards Barn and conversed with Mrs. Maynard—but went not into the House. Jacob Somewhat bad, but not dangerously. Mrs. Maynard was glad of a Pamflet I Sent containing Directions published by Mr. Prince from Dr. Williams of Boston’s Manuscripts, about the manner of managing the Small Pox.

1760 December 14 (Sunday). A.M. Exercise on Job 42.1–9. P.M. read 2 Cor. 7. Preached on Ps. 1.3. Mr. Fessenden and Dr. Crosby dined here. Abner Warrin has grown worse, and desires Continuance of Prayers.

1760 December 15 (Monday). Although it was rainy I visited Abner Warrin.

1760 December 16 (Tuesday). Am closely engaged—in reading various Authors—Viz. Nature delineated—Bishop of Londons Discourses—Magazines Sent me by Mr. Fessenden. Also about my preparations.

1760 December 17 (Wednesday). My Wife every Day in much Pain. At Eve Mr. Chamberlin here about the Paper of Subscriptions for Mr. Stones sermons. Mr. Fessenden here also, says he will take half my Subscription. He sups here.

1760 December 18 (Thursday). Though it was a Snow Storm Mr. Barrett and Dr. Willson came from Capt. Woods towards Eve to See me. When they were gone came Hezekiah Fay and was Examined.

1760 December 19 (Friday). Mr. Hezekiah Pratt here, and at Eve Mr. Nathan Maynard. I talked with both of them about the Bus’ness of the Meeting to be next Monday.

1760 December 20 (Saturday). Mr. Parker here—tells me he thinks he is not obliged to tend my Creatures at t’other Barn without a special Consideration for it: whereas I conceived he under took to do as Mr. Ebenezer Rice did, who was very free and willing to do it.

1760 December 21 (Sunday). A very rainy Day. The Snow was so filled with Water that the Roads are very bad. Mr. Fessenden came in the morning and preached for me a. and p.m. His Texts were Prov. 28.9 and 1 Joh. 1.7, latter part. He dined here, and tarryed over Night. His Horse also. N.B. His Exercises Valuable especially his afternoon. And may God add his Blessing, and make his Servant an Instrument of His Glory! I prayed before the last Sermon. Omitted public Reading a. and p.m.

1760 December 22 (Monday). My Wife has had a poor Night—but is up, though full of distressing Pain this morning. May God prepare us for His holy and Sovereign Will! N.B. This Day was a Precinct Meeting, at which by the Warrant they were to hear what I had to lay before them and act upon it. While I was preparing for it, Mr. Stone came to See me, and dined with me. Desires me to assist him in a Fast on next Wednesday, occasioned by the Small Pox among them. He also desires me to read over his Sermons which he is going to publish; and leaves ‘em with me for that End. When the Precinct were met they Sent Mr. Daniel Forb. to me to See what I had to lay before them or would go to them my Self. I went my Self. Capt. Wood was Moderator. I read what I had prepared, and Spoke also somewhat further, by word of Mouth. The main thing designed was to remove the misunderstanding about my Sallery, inasmuch as although the Precinct had reckoned it, but £29.6.8 L.M. I conceived it was £55 L.M. And what I offered besides the Paper, which I left with them was “that I did not come to make any Complaint to them—that I was not (as I hoped) the uneasy man that I had been represented by some—as if I would be contented with Nothing they could do—(or do what they would) that my Principal aim with them now was what was contained in the Paper—That I had a gratefull mind for what they had done for me. Had No Demands to make upon them—that if they would come to a Vote that 55£ was my Sallery taking into Consideration what that would then buy or pay for, of the Necessarys of Life, or of Labour I would give them a Receipt in full to last June. That if there was reason to move to them for the further additions in proportion to what they had done when they first gave me 500£ old Tenor or my wood—yet neither of these were so directly my purpose at this Time. But as they could not but see what I stood in Need of, I Should at present, leave those Things to them, hoping they would reallize that, as I was in their service, if I was burdened and perplexed their work must go on heavily, and their best interests must suffer Damage: but if I was relieved and assisted, I could go on chearfully, and if I was faithfull (which I earnestly desired to be, and requested their Prayers that I might be) the advantage would be theirs. Thus their Comforts would be [mine?], and mine would be theirs.” Having delivered my self to this purpose, I retired. In the Evening the Committee of the Precinct were here to acquaint me with what was done. Which was that they had voted to account my Sallery to be 55£ Lawfull Money, from June next, if I would give a Receipt in full to June last. This I did and wrote it in their Book; the Committee having first given me an Order to the Treasurer for what was yet behind of Deficiency etc. Thus this grievous Burden that had greatly oppressed me, was taken off, although it leaves me still far less provided for than my Circumstances call for. But I desire humbly to committ my self and mine to the Providence of God who will Care for me.

1760 December 23 (Tuesday). Sent the Agreement between Mr. Parker and me, over to him by Alexander. For though I designed my self to go, yet Mr. Joseph Baker not coming with money as I expected, and not being very well, I deferred my own going.

1760 December 24 (Wednesday). I rode in Deacon Tainters Sleigh with him, his Son and Daughter, to Southborough-Fast, which was on account of the small pox there. Mr. Bridge prayed a.m. and Mr. Smith preached on Isa. 32.9. P.M. Mr. Martyn prayed, and I preached on 1 Pet. 5.6. May God Himself accept us and add His Blessing! Returned at Evening in the Same sleigh. Mr. Baker payed me 55£ old Tenor for the Mare etc.

1760 December 25 (Thursday). Went over to Mr. Parker. Payed him 22£ for the Sheep and 6/ Interest. Payed him also for 2 Gallons of Sperma Ceti Oyl, which came to a Dollar; and for a Tin Lamp, which was 1/4 of a Dollar. To make him quiet in tending my Creatures I gave him gratis my part of the Sheep Pasture which he had wanted to hire of me for his sheep. And promised to take my Sheep over to the New place. N.B. My Daughters, Sarah and Suse were last night, much affected and made faint, by reason of a pot of Coals in their Bed Room.

1760 December 26 (Friday). Mr. Fessenden at Eve. I finished my preparation for the Sabbath this Evening. Mrs. P. much exercised with distressing Pain.

1760 December 27 (Saturday). The School finishes for this time, by Mr. Fessenden at Lieutenant Bruce’s.

1760 December 28 (Sunday). My Wife Was not able to go to Meeting—nor has She been ever Since Nov. 2d. And Oft times her pains are great. In public I read from v. 10 of Job 42, to the End. And I gave an Exercise upon it. P.M. Omitted Reading. Preached on Ps. 1.4 and used Peculiar Fervency. May God Succeed it! And especially to my own Spiritual and eternal Advantage! N.B. Mr. Daniel Millers Wife dined here; but Mrs. Parkman could not come to Table.

1760 December 29 (Monday). Though it was very rainy Mr. Fessenden came. Breaks fast with us. N.B. He preached for Mr. Stone yesterday—and now finally leaves us as Schoolmaster. At Eve comes Mr. Bowman from Cambridge and tells us The King is dead. That he dyed last October and that tomorrow the Young King, his Successor, is to be proclaimed at Boston. The Lord Sanctifie these Providences to us, and to the whole Nation! I think his Majesty was by 7 years the oldest of all the Kings or Queens Since the Conquest; being nigh 77 years old. Queen Elizabeth dyed in her 70th.

1760 December 30 (Tuesday). P.M. Mr. Samuel Fay junior and his Wife, unexpectedly made us a Visit. N.B. I had, on Lords Day Noon, sent to him to invite him to dine with me. And he answered that he was obliged to go home. Had no discourse with him till he was going away (there coming in divers persons) and then but a few words—in general of Sociable Nature. Mr. Batherick came—wants Hoop poles at the Ministerial Lot. Capt. Clark of Rutland from Medway, with his sister in Law, Miss Molly Bucknam came—and the latter lodged here.

1760 December 31 (Wednesday). Miss Molly Bucknam left us to go to Rutland, with her Brother in Law, Capt. Clark. P.M. Widow Newton visits. Settled with her for this Year, as I had done with her son Barny a few Evenings before. Received two hind Quarters of Beef from Joseph Baker, weighed 347 at 19d. My son Baldwin from Brookfield. Dr. Crosby here. Says that not much more may be expected from Mr. Samuel Fay. Thus we Close another Year of Gods infinite Mercy and long-suffering. To His Name be Glory!