Diary of Ebenezer Parkman, 1740

1740 January 1 (Tuesday). Through the tender Mercy and Long suffering of God I am again permitted to begin another New Year. Blessed be His glorious Name for it! But I am under Infirmity and Pain in my Limbs and under Confinement So that although I can follow my studys yet, cannot go from Home, nor Venture to my Barn when it is very Cold or Damp weather. This Morning was rainy, but clear’d up and was moderate and pleasant a.m. P.M. was very rugged.

1740 January 2 (Wednesday). Very high winds and extreme Cold. Mr. Caleb Rice1 of Stourbridge here and din’d with us. We were very Short of Wood and were oblig’d to Cut up an Old Hoggs Stye to burn. Jotham Maynard getting out Flax for us.

1740 January 3 (Thursday). Very cold. Captain Warrin2 and Jotham Maynard p.m. got wood. In the Evening Deacon Newton,3 Lieutenant Baker and Lieutenant Tainter4 here to Enquire how I was [illegible] for wood. Mr. Joseph Crosby here with Leather and I bought a Skin for Breeches of him.

1740 January 4 (Friday). Mr. Crosby again. I dispos’d of 4 Sheep Skins to him. I sent Ebenezer to Southborough for Salt it being most Scarce round about us. Mr. Jonathan Whipple here with Check’d Linnen Cloth which he had wove for us. David Baverick clearing in my swamp, and Lodg’d here.

1740 January 5 (Saturday). David Baverick, Ezekiel Pratt, and Jonathan Rogers clearing in the Swamp and din’d here. P.M. Two more, viz. Sam Bumpso and John Rogers at the same work.

1740 January 6 (Sunday). Clear and somewhat Cold. To Day I first put on my usual Cloths. Text Ps. 68.20. Mr. Miller,5 lately recover’d from the Meazles din’d with us.

1740 January 7 (Monday). Mr. Ebenezer Nurse’s eldest son, Ebenezer, a Youth of about 19, died last Friday of the Iliack passion, and this Day I was at his Funeral. Mr. Jedidiah How help’d by Noah kill’d Two Hogs for me. Weight of my Two Hoggs was 19 Score. A.M. the 3 young men Clearing. Mr. Peter Butler of Rutland sadler was here, and lodg’d.

1740 January 8 (Tuesday). Mr. Butler having rectify’d my Cloth Housing, new stuff’d my wife’s side saddle, etc., and settled accounts with me. Went off. Some Number of Hands came to get wood. Lieutenant Baker with a Yoke of oxen, and Neighbor Benjamin Fay6 with 2 Yoke and Cart, Lieutenant Tainter For Mr. Beriah Rice, Neighbor Grow7 For Deacon Newton,8 Harrington,9 Seth Rice10 with his Team p.m., Eliezer Rice,11 James Maynard, Sam Bumpso, David Baverick,12 Ezekiel Pratt, Hezekiah Pratt, John Rogers for Mr. Abner Newton,13 Josiah Green junior, Eliezer Williams, Samuel Rogers from Mr. William Nurse, Phinehas Forbush,14 and Thomas Whitney. The first Cart went with onely one Yoke of Oxen and therefore could not load up. The other Cart had one Yoke and an Horse, and loaded decently, the other Two Yoke of Oxen drew a sled which for want of Snow could not be loaded up. The Wood was cut on the East Side of the Hill, and was a great deal of it very Small, but they clear’d the Small Tract as they went, of such Turns as aforesaid they made (as they gave account) 39 by Duskish. Lieutenant Tainter tarried in the Evening and Cut up and Salted my Two Hoggs which were kill’d Yesterday. They weighed both of them about 19 Score.

1740 January 9 (Wednesday). Snow’d last Night. The 3 Young Men, Scil. David Baverick, Ezekiel Pratt and Sam Bumpso, came to clearing but the Rain beat them off. Nurse Sherman was carried Home by Ebenezer, not to Marlborough the being thick there and about there but to Grafton. Mr. Bowman and Mr. Daniel Hardy here at Eve.

1740 January 10 (Thursday). Snow’d last Night but turns to rain this morning. Snow returns and the Storm of Snow and Rain continues all Day. My Wife greatly afflicted with the Tooth ach. Meazles at Ensign Maynards.

1740 January 11 (Friday). Bright, Clear Day. Stephen Maynard15 missing ever since Wednesday. His Father, uncle James and Cousen David gone after him again to Day and brought him from Providence.

1740 January 12 (Saturday). Pleasant Day. My Wife (Except her Toothach) so far recover’d through Gods Mercy, that today She went into the Kitchen. Samuel Bumpso thrash’d Barley.

1740 January 13 (Sunday). I preach’d a. and p.m. on Rev. 2.21. Mr. Cornelius Biglo din’d here. After Meeting Mr. Biglo came in and my wife improv’d him to put out her Tooth.

1740 January 14 (Monday). Samuel Bumpso finish’d Thrashing Barley a.m. Mr. Daniel Warrin (who bought my Oxen) drove them down to Boston. Mr. Moses Pierce junior of Boston, on his Journey to Connecticut, by whom I wrote to Mr. Pierpont, my Acknowledgments for his Bounty in presenting Me Dr. Fuller’s Church History of Britain and History of Cambridge16 which I receiv’d last Saturday night. Mr. Beman17 came to call me to visit Matthias Rice18 who was sick of the Meazles, and I ventur’d to go. Mr. Abraham How of Marlborough came home with me. Mr. Bowman here in the Evening.

1740 January 15 (Tuesday). Great Storm of Snow. High winds and very Cold. Very difficult for my Boys to tend the Cattle and get Wood.

1740 January 16 (Wednesday). Bright, Windy and Cold.

1740 January 17 (Thursday). Mr. Nathaniel Oake here to desire me to visit John Caruths19 Sick Child.

1740 January 18 (Friday). I rode over to see John Caruths sick child, and in returning I visited Deacon Tomlin.20

1740 January 19 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1740 January 20 (Sunday). On Ps. 119.59. P.M. My wife went to Meeting, the first after her lying in.

1740 January 21 (Monday). Lieutenant Holloway brought a Letter from Mrs. [sic] Pierpont and acquainted me that my Friends at Boston were well, and in particular My Brother Elias whom he had din’d with.

1740 January 22 (Tuesday). It is a good Sledding Time but I have nobody to improve it.

1740 January 23 (Wednesday). Ensign Maynard brought me the Sorrowfull Tidings that my Brother Elias was struck with the Dead palsie (as its commonly call’d) on Monday last; that he was himself with him Yesterday, and he lay in a very dull, insensible state, and it was greatly to be fear’d whether he would get over it. At Eve Brother and Sister Hicks21 were here.

1740 January 24 (Thursday). I had many heavy Thoughts; very much desir’d to get down to see my Brother, but I was under So much Weakness and often in Pains that It could not be judg’d Safe for me to venture out in So Cold Weather upon such a Journey. Ensign Maynard here Sometime in the forenoon. Said it was very Sharp Cold, etc. At Eve Mr. Samuel Harrington here.

1740 January 25 (Friday). [No entry.]

1740 January 26 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1740 January 27 (Sunday). Ps. 119.59. Mr. Moses Pierce junior was come from New Haven. I took him Home and he din’d and lodg’d with us.

1740 January 28 (Monday). Rode to Marlborough in Company of Mr. Pierce. We went through Marlborough. At Waltham we had more Company. Mr. Jabez Ward of Marlborough. Mr. Pierce rode with me to Father Champneys but thence he went to Boston—it proving Evening I durst not Venture further.

1740 January 29 (Tuesday). This Memorable and Melancholly Morning I was full of Wormwood and the Gall. I drank so deep of this Day Four Years since.22 It was very Cold but I was too uneasy to keep from my Dear Brother Elias to whom especially I was making my Visit. At Roxbury at Mr. Davis’s Shop I got my Mare new Shod that I might help her as to her stumbling. At Boston it was very grievous to see my Brother in So strange a Condition. He did not know me in some Time—but in the afternoon he undertook to tell over to me the whole Manner of his being taken, etc., which he went through very intelligibly and exactly, but which he had not till now, nor had appear’d So rational or Compos’d till now. Blessed be God for Such a measure of Mercy. My Venerable mother there with her son Continually, and in a Measure of Comfort and Health. I made this my Chief Residence although I Sometimes lodg’d and Din’d otherwhere.

1740 January 30 (Wednesday). A.M. I went to Christ’s Church and heard Dr. Cutler23 on Dan. 6.21. P.M. at Mr. Condy’s24 Lecture on 2 Pet. 3.18 forepart. After service Mr. Chauncy,25 Mr. Condy, Mr. Gray26 and I went to Mr. Welsteeds.27 But at Evening I was at an Entertainment at Brother Alexanders, our Kinsman John Parkman having brought his Mistress to them at this Time.

1740 January 31 (Thursday). Mr. Chauncy preach’d at the public Lecture on 2 Pet. 3.16. Those words, In which are some Things hard to be understood, a Sermon as no doubt, very pleasing to Some So very Disgusting to others. Very cold. At Eve Mr. Harb Dorr and Mr. Davenport (the Baker) at Brother Elias’s. N.B. Brother Hicks brought a Letter from my wife, but I saw not him. N.B. Sorrowful News of Mr. John Adams’s28 (My old Friend) Death and of Mr. Ebenezer Hancock29 of Lexington.

1740 February 1 (Friday). Extreme Cold. It was Dr. Colman’s30 Lecture but I durst not venture out. But at Eve Visited Mr. Webb.31

1740 February 2 (Saturday). Mr. Webb came and pray’d with Brother, and came again p.m. on the Business of my preaching for him, but I was of a long Time preengaged to Mr. Gee,32 who on that Condition releas’d me at the Time of my Marriage. P.M. Mr. Gees son came with his Request, etc. N.B. Mr. Gee was married in the beginning of the Week to Mrs. Sarah Gardner.33 At Eve I waited upon Mr. Gee at his Father Gardners and to Mr. Mathers.34

1740 February 3 (Sunday). Mr. Mather a.m. on Ps. 97.11. I din’d at Mr. Gardners with the Bridegroom and Bride. P.M. I preach’d for the Bridegroom on Jude 10.21. At Eve at my Brother Elias’s, and at Mr. Mathers, where was Captain Samuel Greenwood35 and his Spouse, etc. and we all supp’d there but I lodg’d at my Brother Samuel’s.

1740 February 4 (Monday). My Niece Elizabeth Corser’s36 Child Eliza ill.

1740 February 5 (Tuesday). Ensign Maynard brought me a Second Letter from my Wife. Mr. Webb pray’d with my Brother again. I visited and pray’d with Elizabeth Corser. Din’d at my Niece Procter’s.37

1740 February 6 (Wednesday). Din’d at Brother Williams. N.B. Deacon Larrabee38 kindly visited me there. The Weather much moderater. P.M. I visited Mr. Robert Breck,39 one of my Old School Mates and my wife’s Kinsman.

1740 February 7 (Thursday). Very Pleasant. John White went to Cambridge for my Horse. It was late before I mounted at Charleston, being after 11. Stop’d at College at sister Barretts40 and rode over to Father Champney’s.41 After 1 p.m. I set out from thence. N.B. Sister Lydia42 rode up with Brother Hicks on the 4th in a Whirry. Levi Brigham—my Company part of the Way. Got home at 7 1/2 in the Eve.

1740 February 8 (Friday). Ensign Maynard the Meazles. I visited him. Sister Lydia keeps at Hicks’s.

1740 February 9 (Saturday). Storm—Snow, etc. Sister Lydia came here and lodg’d here.

1740 February 10 (Sunday). Repeated John 9.4.

1740 February 11 (Monday). Sister Lydia rode with Brother Hicks to Cambridge on his own Mare. Visited Ensign Maynard. Neighbor Charles Rice, etc.

1740 February 12 (Tuesday). Visited Old Mr. Fay43—he, his wife and Family being Sick of the Meazles. Visited Captain Fay’s wife who is exceeding Low and wasted.

1740 February 13 (Wednesday). I rode to Marlborough, the Doctor44 having Sent for me to visit them, Sister and all the Child being sick, but his little son John of about 9 months old much the worst and lying at the point of Death. Din’d at Colonel Woods45 with Mr. Aaron Smith.46 At their earnest request I went to the Funeral of Two of Mr. Joseph Tainters47 Children—4 others of his Children being at the Same Time sick, and one or more of them in a Dangerous state and all of the Throat Distemper. At their Instant Desire I pray’d upon this sorrowful Occasion. Return’d to Brother Gotts. The Rain prevail’d so as to forbid my going Home, besides their Importunity on the Account of the Child which was nigh Expiring. It dy’d about 8 of the Clock in the Eve, the Doctor being exceedingly distressed and impatient. I lodged there with the Doctor.

1740 February 14 (Thursday). Captain Amsden48 burnt my Mares Mouth for (what is call’d) the Lampers. I went to Mr. Zechariah Maynards,49 the widow Hows,50 and Mr. Joseph Rice’s51 where I din’d. Thence I rode up to Mr. Thomas Wards in Westborough and to Lieutenant Holloways whose Youngest Child was very bad after the Meazles. Captain Eager came from thence with me, whose son was Sick also of the Same Distemper. Very troublesome, hollow riding, the Earth being much open’d. N.B. David Baverick and Samuel Bumpso getting Rails.

1740 February 15 (Friday). I rode again to Marlborough to the Funeral of John Gott,52 and return’d at Eve. David and Samuel again.

1740 February 16 (Saturday). Mr. Aaron Smith from Marlborough made me a Visit. David and Samuel and Ezekiel Pratt at work again. Mr. Smith din’d and Spent the afternoon with us and then went to Southborough. Rain at Evening.

1740 February 17 (Sunday). Rain. Act. 3.19. Mr. Thurston53 and Mr. James Fay54 din’d here.

1740 February 18 (Monday). Visited Ensign Maynard. David, Samuel and Ezekiel getting Posts. P.M. Cold. At Eve Stephen Fay55 came to desire me to visit his Mother, but I was too much indispos’d to venture out in So Searching an Air.

1740 February 19 (Tuesday). Visited Mrs. Fay, who was yet alive but very low. N.B. Mr. Sherman of Marlborough and Mr. Phinehas Rice of Stow my Company in going to Captain Fays.

1740 February 20 (Wednesday). Read the Life of Signor Roselli, an Italian.

1740 February 21 (Thursday). Mr. Metcalf56 and Mr. [blank] of Medway here a.m. Captain Eager p.m. The Children went to School at Mr. Townsends,57 This being the first of my knowing the School was kept there, although it had been kept there this fortnight, as the Master told me. Mr. Goodenow58 here in the Eve to begin to pay me Rates for the Current Year.

1740 February 22 (Friday). Samuel Bumpso and Ezekiel Pratt came to clear in the Swamp. David having the Meazles. The Sow discovered to have Eight Piggs. Old Mr. Whipple and Captain Warrin here at Evening.

1740 February 23 (Saturday). At the Funeral of the Infant Child of Mr. Eliezer Rice. Dr. Gott din’d with us. Samuel Bumpso and Ezekial Pratt Clearing and finish’d afternoon.

1740 February 24 (Sunday). Act. 3.19. Mrs. Byles59 and Mehitable Coddington din’d with us.

1740 February 25 (Monday). Town Meeting. N.B. I gave the Town a General Receipt in full written in the Town Book.

1740 February 26 (Tuesday). My Wife rode to Marlborough on Brother Hicks’s Mare. I rode with her as far as Captain Forbush’s.60 I went to Mr. Cooks.61 Got an Iron Hoop fitted for dirty Shoes at my west Door. Visited old Mrs. Forbush,62 Ensign, Captain. Neighbor Barns63—N.B. their Child very Sick.

1740 February 27 (Wednesday). Neighbor Barns came up and dock’d my Mare. P.M. his Father came and Challeng’d part of my Land. We went down to the Bounds. At Evening my wife return’d safe. Fine Weather.

1740 February 28 (Thursday). Fine Weather. I preach’d the Lecture on Gal. 5.25.

1740 February 29 (Friday). Rain a.m. Clear p.m. Somewhat forward in my preparations.

1740 March 1 (Saturday). Snowy Forenoon. To my great Comfort I was early in Sermon. Finish’d before Sundown. I visited Mr. Richard Barns’s Sick Child at Evening.

1740 March 2 (Sunday). Sacrament. Act. 3.19 a. and p.m. Three Deacons and Deacon Newtons wife, Cousin Winchester, and Mehitable Coddington din’d here.

1740 March 3 (Monday). The Town Sent Two Men to me to request me to pray with them at their annual Meeting which I comply’d with.

1740 March 4 (Tuesday). Mr. Breck64 from Springfield din’d with us. P.M. Mr. Jonathan Barns65 from Marlborough to bring the Request of that people that I would assist them in their Fast next week, which they had appointed on account of the Sickness among them, the Meazles and the Throat Distemper, as well as on account of their remaining under the Frowns of Divine Providence in so unsettled Circumstances. Mr. Barns also brought a Letter from Mr. Aaron Smith with his Desires to Change next Sabbath. Colonel Woods hath two Daughters exceeding low and in a Dangerous State by the Throat Distemper. Mrs. Betty and Mrs. Sarah. Mr. Jonathan Loring,66 their Schoolmaster Sick of the Same likewise. Mr. Breck and Mr. Barns went to Marlborough together.

1740 March 5 (Wednesday). I rode to Captain Fays to see his wife in her low Condition. From thence, with Mr. Batchellor67 in Company great part of the way, to Mr. Zebediah Smiths at Grafton to committ a piece of Pladd and a piece of Callimanco to be dy’d and wove. Return’d at Eve by Mr. Bezaleel Smiths and Eleazer Pratts,68 at which places I call’d. It was raw Cold, and Evening before I could get home, by which I was very much indispos’d.

1740 March 6 (Thursday). Catechiz’d at the Meeting House a.m. and p.m. but not so full numbers of Children as usual, on account of the Meazles, which are in many Houses. After Catechizing I preach’d at Brother Hicks’s on Ps. 63.8 former part. Moses Pratt69 clean’d out my Barly. At Eve Bezaleel Smith here.

1740 March 7 (Friday). Snow Storm. Brother Hicks making a small reading Desk for me.

1740 March 8 (Saturday). Storm in the Morning and very Cold. P.M. Clear and pleasant. Mr. Aaron Smith came up from Marlborough in whose stead I rode down there. Lodg’d at the Colonel’s.

1740 March 9 (Sunday). On Matth. 24.44. Lodg’d as well as din’d at Colonel’s. His Family very Sick Still.

1740 March 10 (Monday). I visited divers afflicted people a.m. Din’d at Captain Williams’s,70 who with old Captain Brigham71 perswaded me to go to the proprietors Meeting to Speak to the proprietors in Answer to Mr. Richard Barns’s Objection against Two Acres and Thirty Rods of Land which I took up on the North End of Powder Hill. To compass an Agreement we Chose Two Men, Mr. Barns chose Mr. Joseph Stratton,72 and I chose Captain Nathan Brigham, and the Proprietors put in a Third, Scil. Justice Samuel Brigham, the Moderator of the Meeting. Then I return’d home. Here I met Neighbor James Fay who acquainted me with his Mothers73 Death, and desir’d me to attend upon her Funeral which they had appointed to be on Wednesday, although they knew (being inform’d by Mr. Whipple74 on Saturday) was the Day of the Fast at Marlborough which I had promis’d to attend.

1740 March 11 (Tuesday). Storm, Rain, Hail, Snow.

1740 March 12 (Wednesday). My Wife and I rode down to Marlborough to the Fast on account of the Sickness in that Town. Dr. Gotts Daughter Betty thought to be Dangerously ill. Colonel Woods ill, and under great Affliction respecting his Children. His Youngest son Dead and others remaining very ill yet. A.M. Mr. Stone75 pray’d and I preach’d on 1 Pet. 5.6. We were entertain’d at the widow Gates’s.76 The Storm continued, and although in the Morning it was Still and moderate yet the Day prov’d Cold and Raw. At Evening as we were at Mrs. Gates’s Mr. Smith ask’d our advice touching his Answer to the Call of that people to Settle among them.77 The Substance of our Advice was that considering the peoples great unanimity in Desiring him, it might appear his Duty to Accept especially being that they had been heretofore of so remarkably divided a Spirit. But then he must plainly distinguish between this Advice resulting from the proceedings and Circumstances of the people, and any Advice grounded on his Qualifications for the Ministry, inasmuch as we were in no wise ripe for this Latter, being that we were in a great Degree Strangers to him, and being that there would be a Time and Method no Doubt appointed on Purpose for his Examination and Approbation. My wife and I lodg’d at Dr. Gotts.

1740 March 13 (Thursday). Snows Still, Yet we return’d Home. Mr. Simon Goddard here with a Letter from his Father. Mr. Zedadiah Smith here upon the Business of Weaving me some Plad and Callimanco.

1740 March 14 (Friday). Mr. Hezekiah Stow Sifted over my Barley. Hicks to Boston.

1740 March 15 (Saturday). At the Funeral of Neighbor Benjamin Hows youngest Child.78 Hicks return’d.

1740 March 16 (Sunday). On Act. 3.19. I was very much tir’d at Night and oblig’d to go to bed early.

1740 March 17 (Monday). Pleasant Day. Lieutenant Holloway here. Mrs. Wheeler. At Eve Neighbor Aaron Forbush here, and Mr. Francis Whipple. Reckon’d with Samuel Bumpso and David Baverick.

1740 March 18 (Tuesday). Rainy Day.

1740 March 19 (Wednesday). Samuel Bumpso and David Baverick at work for me. A.M. Cutting wood and p.m. Splicing Rails. I rode to smith Allens to get my Mare shod. Din’d with Colonel Ward.79 At Mr. Cushings80—his son Jacob Very ill of the Throat Distemper. I rode to Worcester. Meazles at Mr. Burrs,81 his wife Sick thereof. N.B. Mr. Morse,82 their Schoolmaster and young preacher at Mr. Burrs this Eve.

1740 March 20 (Thursday). The Next Morning after some Discourse of Land at Hartford and Simsbury, etc. I rode with great Haste over to Sutton yet the Roads very bad, and wholly New to me. Mr. Hall83 half a Mile from his House and his wife from Home. I went to him upon the Affair of Some Land which had lately bought of Mr. Smith, Sugar Baker of Boston, but it was chiefly bargained away. At 1/4 after one I left Mr. Hall and rode down to Grafton, to Mr. Prentice’s in about an Hour. But they were gone to Lecture. N.B. that Mr. Cushing was to have preach’d, but the sickness of his son prevented him. He spake to me Yesterday of it, Mr. Prentice being gone to Groton, but expected back. I answered nothing because of my Engagement upon my Business, but as I was riding the Road to Worcester was reflecting upon the Matter and that I had no Notes with me. As I was Riding on I met Benjamin Fay. Him I sent to Mrs. Parkman to desire her to wrap me up some sermons, which I remember’d to lye in the Drawer of the Table I wrote at; and the Said Fay must do his utmost to Convey them up to Grafton where I would endeavour to be. Accordingly the Notes were come to Mr. Prentice’s. Thus having taken Brank84 and drank some Beer without staying to Dine, I went to Meeting and I preach’d Sermon on Ps. 73.24 to page [blank]. Return’d to Westborough in the Evening.

1740 March 21 (Friday). Lowery Morning. David and Samuel came to work but were discourag’d by the Weather—but after Nine of the Clock they went to work digging stones up on the Hill. Mr. Timothy Fays85 wife here.

1740 March 22 (Saturday). David and Sam digging stones.

1740 March 23 (Sunday). Act. 9.6, latter part.

1740 March 24 (Monday). David and Sam here, Digging stones on the Southside. Did something at Gardening. Looking up a Team to mow up Grass Ground on my south side.

1740 March 25 (Tuesday). David and Samuel digging stones, still on the Southside. Sent down my Subscription to the Manufacture Bank86 by Mr. Samuel Robinson of Hardwicke.

1740 March 26 (Wednesday). My wife was taken sick of the Meazles. Extreme Pain in her Teeth.

1740 March 27 (Thursday). Publick Fast. A.M. on 1 King 8.44.45, on occasion of the season and the War with Spain. P.M. repeated from 2 and 3 on Hos. 6.1 from Hosea 14.1. Mrs. Whipple here to Nurse my wife. But Sister Hicks watch’d.

1740 March 28 (Friday). Sam at work digging stones, on the South side. N.B. Mr. Prentice of Grafton came up from Marlborough, and Mr. Belcher Hancock from Grafton and din’d with us, as did Mr. Samuel Robinson who had done my Business at the Manufacture Bank. P.M. I rode to Captain Warrins. Great Disappointment about a Team. My wife very full of pain in her Teeth. Mrs. Whipple watch’d.

1740 March 29 (Saturday). Sam work’d rigging up stone Wall. My wife very ill yet, but the Meazles are turning as we judge. Suse Rogers very ill. Mrs. Tainter87 came and watch’d with my wife.

1740 March 30 (Sunday). Mrs. Tainter stayed till Evening. I Repeated sermon on 2 Cor. 5.1, having been greatly hindered from my studys. Benjamin Fays wife watch’d.

1740 March 31 (Monday). I rode abroad to buy a Yoke of Oxen. I went as far as to Bezaleel Smiths and Mr. James Fay with me. I was at Captain Fays, Winchesters, etc.

1740 April 1 (Tuesday). In the forenoon I was variously taken up. Early I was at Mr. Hezekiah Hows88 for Oxen and obtain’d them for the first part of the Day. Sam and David work’d. A.M. Sledded Stones till by the Infirmity of the Oxen and a Storm of Snow they were oblig’d to knock off. I visited Suse Rogers who lay in a very low Condition. N.B. her Testimony of the Hope she had in her Death, a very Remarkable Declaration of her Custom and Manner of Life, when She was but young, whilst she liv’d at Mr. Storers and whilst she liv’d at my House, withdrawing her Affections from the world, giving her Self to a Life with God and earnestly begging ever[y] Night and every Day an Interest in Christ, especially improving Sabbath mornings and Evenings for Retiring to Spend some Time with God and to begg this of him. This She said was her continual practice especially whilst she dwelt at my House. As to dying She hop’d she was ready, and was willing because she hop’d she had not sought God in vain (for He is a Mercifull God) (or to such purpose); but if [it] should be his will that She should live and recover, that She might serve and glorify him still in the world She was desiring of it (but left the Matter quietly with God). But O what would become of her if she should live, and Should nevertheless forget these purposes of Serving God. O wo unto her, wo unto her if she should! As to her dear Infant She had given it to God before it was born; She gave it up to him when it was born and I give it up to him now, Said She, and Should be glad to do it in (his holy) (the Ordinance of) Baptism. Thus she continued her speech, though but a whisper, through her great weakness, for some length of Time, telling me She thought she should not live over another Night. The appearance of the Grace of God in her occasioned our Thanksgiving to God for her. Dr. Gott was at my House in the mean Time to see my wife, who he judg’d had the Canker in her throat. In the Afternoon the storm of Snow prevail’d greatly; and in the middst of it Mrs. Edwards89 of Northampton, sister to Mrs. Pierpont90 of New Haven came to see us, a young man from her Nei[gh]bourhood accompanying her. They had neither of ‘em had the Meazles, and were much afraid: but I kept ‘em in a Separate Chamber as safely as I could that they might be wholly easy.

1740 April 2 (Wednesday). A rough, Cloudy morning, yet Mrs. Edwards Set out for Boston. When the Morning got up it was warmer and the Day prov’d pleasant. I rode down the road with Mrs. Edwards as far as Mr. Ebenezer Newtons of Southborough hithermost Corner—and returning I visited Sarah Bradish at Mr. Amsdens,91 Thomas Bruce’s wife,92 Abijah Bruce, Abigail Bruce,93 who were sick and Suse Rogers who is yet alive.

1740 April 3 (Thursday). Suse Rogers94 departed this Life about one o’Clock in the Morning. Much perplex’d in the morning about our spring work, the Care of it crowding upon me at a very uncomfortable Rate. After having been other where with no success, as I walk’d to Neighbor Hezekiah Pratts (who I sought to come with his Oxen and draw off the Stones from Ground which we wanted to break up for Planting) I had many musings touching the Conduct of God’s Providence in the world, especially where even his own work was more immediately at stake—but I was enabled to refer and rest matters with God. Mr. Pratt came—after him Mr. Daniel Forbush95 with Two Yoke of Cattle, and they drew off the stones. This they did a.m. David Baverick also came and rigg’d up the Fences; So that my Business was like to get along—for which I thank God that so I might attend to his service without so much distraction. Mr. Samuel Crosby96 inform’d me that Mr. Cushing had just lost Two Children, Mary and John, who dy’d the Day before yesterday of the Throat Distemper, and another was at the point of Death. I rode over to the North side of the town, to Mr. Caruths, to Mr. Haywards97 and Bakers98—to Mr. Livermores,99 Balls and Wheelers.100 N.B. John Badcocks Conduct towards me as he accompany’d me part of the way back from Mr. Wheelers. Mr. David Forbush plough’d stubble p.m. A Letter from Mr. Cushing came while I was abroad.

1740 April 4 (Friday). Stormy a.m. P.M. I rode up to the Funeral of Two of Mr. Cushings Children, Scil. the Eldest Daughter and the youngest Son. Mr. Prentice of Lancaster had pray’d before I could get there by reason of the Storm.

1740 April 5 (Saturday). Neighbour Richard Barns, junior here to acquaint me that the Committee were to come up next Tuesday, but I was oblig’d to write to Marlborough to have it alter’d because it would be Association Day.

1740 April 6 (Sunday). Act. 2.41.42. P.M. Repeated Sermon on 1 Pet. 4.3, from Ezek. 44.6.

1740 April 7 (Monday). Stormy a.m. P.M. Gardening. Mr. Morse from Worster here.

1740 April 8 (Tuesday). A morning of great Hurry and Engagement. Mr. James Fay and Eliezer Rice each of them with Two Yoke of Oxen to break up Some Grass Ground on my south side. But our plough (which I had of the widow Tomlin) soon broke and we were oblig’d to get another, first at Ensign Maynards but Chiefly at Stephen Fays—and his held, but the Ground was so Stoney (notwithstanding all our pains and charge in Digging many of the stones out) that they made but a poor Hand of it. When we had din’d I rode over to Lancaster to the Association. N.B. Mr. Livermore rode Two or Three Miles with me. I got to the Meeting in the middst of the Exercises. Mr. Loring, Mr. Solomon Prentice, Mr. Stone, Mr. Josiah Swan101 and Mr. Smith from Marlborough were all that came to Day.

1740 April 9 (Wednesday). Mr. Seccomb,102 Mr. Stearns,103 etc. came. Mr. Stone preach’d the public Lecture upon Rom. 8.37. N.B. Mr. Lorings Exceptions against the Doctrine deliver’d. After Dinner I rode with Captain Joseph Willard104 and Deacon Cooper105 of Grafton to Shrewsbury to the Funeral of a Third of Mr. Cushing’s Children who dy’d by the Throat Disease. A Melancholly Time! I return’d home at Eve.

1740 April 10 (Thursday). My Daughter Molly Sick of the Meazles. A sorrowful Message by Ezekiel How106 that sister Gott was taken suddenly about an Hour before sundown yesterday with an Apoplexy, but partly Epileptical also, and was not thought to continue. I preach’d (Repeated) on Ps. 119.5, and after Lecture I rode to Marlborough and found the Sorrowful Case of sister Gott to be as aforesaid! Lucy with the Measles.

1740 April 11 (Friday). About Seven in the morning Sister Gott expir’d. A very Solemn Morning! I rode home when I had dispatch’d various Affairs at Marlborough. P.M. Ebenezer Maynard rode before my Wife to Marlborough who also return’d safe at Evening. My son Thomas and Ebenezer much indispos’d. Mrs. Whipple helps us.

1740 April 12 (Saturday). Jonathan and Benjamin Tainter107 came with Three Cattle and plough’d Stubble and Split Hills. N.B. Lieutenant Holloway108 here with an Affair relating to his Brother Hayward. Molly Lee here last night and to Day. Ebenezer the Meazles.

1740 April 13 (Sunday). Sacrament. Act. 2.41.42. My wife at Meeting but my Children all Sick. P.M. on Job 7.8. Repeat’d pieces of Sermon on Job 14.2 and Ps. 90.9 on occasion of Sister Gotts sudden Death.

1740 April 14 (Monday). We rode down to the Funeral of Sister Gott. There were Mr. Loring, Mr. Barrett,109 Mr. Brintnall,110 Mr. Smith, etc. O that God would make us to know our End, etc.,111 and O that we might hear Christ Saying to us Be ye Ready also, for In Such an Hour as ye Think not, the son of man cometh!112 Brother Hicks and his son plough’d for me.

1740 April 15 (Tuesday). N.B. The Committee about the Land I had taken up had appointed to come to Day but did not come. N.B. Hicks graffing.113 John Rogers wrought for me. Jonathan and Benjamin Tainter with their Team Carted Wood, Fencing stuff, ploughed in wheat, etc.

1740 April 16 (Wednesday). Jonathan Tainter and Sam Hicks ploughed in Rye. Mr. Aaron Forbush wrought for me. Brother Samuel Breck visited us. My Children all getting about again. D. Glor.!

1740 April 17 (Thursday). Mr. Aaron Forbush and David Baverick wrought. In the middle of the Day Several Showers of Rain and Hail. Catechiz’d on the North side.

1740 April 18 (Friday). David wrought, and Aaron Forbush junior. Mr. Verney of Boston here. At Eve my black Heiffer missing. Rain in the Night.

1740 April 19 (Saturday). Several of my Nei[gh]bours assisted in looking for my young Cow, and found her mired in the Meadow north of the Great pond. Cold Raw wind after the Rain.

1740 April 20 (Sunday). A very Cold Day. A.M. on Ps. 109.4 latter part. P.M. repeated sermon in 1 Pet. 4.3 from Ezek. 44.6.

1740 April 21 (Monday). Rode over to Mr. Eliezer Rice’s. David and Samuel Bumpso here in the Evening. Weather warm and pleasant. Planted Cucumbers.

1740 April 22 (Tuesday). [No entry.]

1740 April 23 (Wednesday). Very warm, but yet windy. I rode to Captain Warrins that I might send to Boston by Mr. Samuel Harrington who was to call there. I sent also to Mr. Francis Bowman114 of Lexington by the Same.

1740 April 24 (Thursday). Very Dry windy weather. Ebenezer Rode to Mr. Robert Allen’s, at Shrewsbury and got my Mare New Shod. Nigh to Evening came Mr. John Henry Lydius115 from Boston, upon his return to Albany, and lodg’d here.

1740 April 25 (Friday). Mr. Lydius pursued his Intention Home. Mr. [blank] Morse116 here from Medfield.

1740 April 26 (Saturday). David Baverick made a Meal Chest for me. Shower of Rain after Drought.

1740 April 27 (Sunday). On Ps. 109.4. Mrs. Knowlton and Mrs. Whipple din’d here. Southborough people here at Meeting, Mr. Stone being gone to Harwich.

1740 April 28 (Monday). Rain. Mr. John Mead here. N.B. His Contest with Mr. Eliezer Bellows. Mr. Mead Lodged here. Visited Mr. Bowman.

1740 April 29 (Tuesday). I went with Mr. Mead to his Boards and bought them of him. Din’d at Deacon Forbush.

1740 April 30 (Wednesday). Hicks Carting Muck (having taken the Business of my Indian Corn for half the Crop of it). P.M. Mr. Francis Whipple came and work’d gratis for me. At Evening I sold him a Barrell of Cyder and another to Neighbour Eliezer Rice.

1740 May 1 (Thursday). Preach’d at the private Meeting at Mr. Whipples on Rev. 3.1. N.B. Hicks ploughed a.m. Mr. Rider117 of Hopkinton here. Mr. Caruth118 brought home a piece of Strip’d Cotton and Linnen Containing 16 Yards.

1740 May 2 (Friday). Rainy. Ensign Maynard here who had been to Boston and brought 6 3/4 Yards Callico for Judith and [illegible] from Mr. Jenison for me.

1740 May 3 (Saturday). Rain. Some Thunder. P.M. Hicks Cart [blank] Load of Muck.

1740 May 4 (Sunday). On Ps. 109.4. Mr. John Pool of Reading din’d here. Southborough people at meeting, Mr. Stone not having return’d yet from Harwich.

1740 May 5 (Monday). Very Rainy Day. Read Several Centurys in Dr. Fuller besides his History of Waltham Abbey. Thunder and Lightning at Night.

1740 May 6 (Tuesday). Rainy Still. Four Young Cattle turn’d up into the woods. Very Cold.

1740 May 7 (Wednesday). Mr. Jonah Warrin119 and Benjamin Forbush120 Carted 13 Load Muck with Mr. Williams’s121 Cart and Oxen. Hicks ploughing here.

1740 May 8 (Thursday). Samuel Forbush and Jonas Warrin junior Carted 13 Load with Captain Warrins Oxen.

1740 May 9, 10 (Friday, Saturday). Cold yet, so that we refrain Planted [sic]. My Hay in the Barn finish’d but have part of a stack abroad.

1740 May 11 (Sunday). On Ps. 109.4. Warmer Weather.

1740 May 12, 13 (Monday, Tuesday). Planted all before Dinner that was to be done in the Fields. My Wife ventur’d to ride my Mare to Marlborough. I rode with Mr. James Fay122 at Evening to visit Mr. James Cutler123 of Grafton. My Body much Chill’d with the Cold, for we did not get there till between 10 and 11. Mr. Cutler lay in a very despairing or rather in a delirious State. I lodg’d at Deacon Whipple’s,124 and the next morning return’d to visit Mr. Cutler who was Somewhat more Compos’d yet not steadily rational. His Condition very hazzardous. I took leave between 10 and 11 a.m. and came Home. Mr. Cutler dy’d about 1 o’Clock. My wife return’d at Eve from Marlborough.

1740 May 14 (Wednesday). Brother Hicks Sow’d my Flax. P.M. I rode to Mr. Thomas Goodenows. Jonathan’s—Jesse Brighams, etc. N.B. I sent down by Neighbour Benjamin How125 32 papers out of Governor Bradstreets126 Bundles, to Mr. Thomas Prince127 at Boston.

1740 May 15 (Thursday). [No entry.]

1740 May 16 (Friday). Mr. William Nurse128 here with Mr. Calef’s Book of the Witchcraft at Salem in the Year 1692.129

1740 May 17 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1740 May 18 (Sunday). On Ps. 73.28. Mrs. Chamberlain din’d here.

1740 May 19 (Monday). A.M. finish’d Dr. Increase Mathers Cases about Witchcraft.130

1740 May 20 (Tuesday). On this Day came up Mr. Richard Barns and his Brother Edward with the Committee to See whether the Land I had taken up on the East of my Line and bounding on the North side of the highway which goes over Powder Hill be common Land, and to be granted to me by the Proprietors, that So my Plott of it might be accepted. The Committee were Samuel Brigham Esquire (put in by the Proprietors), Captain Nathan Brigham (chosen by me) and Mr. Joseph Stratton (chosen by Mr. Richard Barns) all of them of Marlborough. Old Mr. Maynard131 came up also to see the Bounds. Upon a full view of the Bounds The aforesaid Gentlemen perswaded Mr. Barns to Consent to the following Terms. First, That I should Measure off Two Acres and a Quarter of the Common Land and get it accepted and that Mr. Barns should have the Rest being the Same more or less. Secondly, that the Bounds of our Old Lines, or the East and North East Should be now renewed and settled forever to prevent all further Controversie among us or our Heirs After us; which was accordingly done in the presence and by the Assistance of the Mentioned Committee and Mr. Edward Barns. N.B. Mr. Seth Rice who was absent in the forenoon came at Dinner and was with us in the Afternoon and assisted in the aforesaid Difficult Affairs. But to our mutual rejoicing we ended this Controversie so far in Peace.

1740 May 21 (Wednesday). Rainy. I rose very Early but was exceeding indispos’d. Neighbour Silas Brigham who had not perfectly recover’d from the Meazles, is now raving Distracted, and Sent for me but I was not able to go.

1740 May 22 (Thursday). Disappointed of all Help in my Lecture. I began a Discourse this morning upon Tit. 1.5 and p.m. preach’d it. After Lecture I stop’d the Church to see whether they would do any Thing about the Ordination of Deacons, and it was left to further consideration. Town Meeting to Choose a Representative. Deacon Newton chose first and refus’d. Lieutenant Baker chose and refus’d. Received divers Letters from New Haven, Dated the 13 instant. Reckoned with David Batherick and Sam Bumpso. Visited poor Neighbour Silas Brigham, whom I both found and left in the ravings of his Distemper. A very afflected Family!

1740 May 23 (Friday). Very Warm. Mr. Bridgham132 and his Wife din’d here.

1740 May 24 (Saturday). Rainy. Mr. Daniel Warrin work’d for me somewhat more than half a Day getting Riders for the Stone Wall, Yokes for the piggs, etc. Mr. Jonathan Goodenow here.

1740 May 25 (Sunday). Sacrament. A.M. on Ps. 73.28; p.m. on Mal. 3.14. Deacon Fay,133 Mrs. Miles,134 and Cousin Winchester135 din’d. Mrs. Mile’s Supp’d and lodg’d here.

1740 May 26 (Monday). Prevented going my Journey by the Delays of the Constables. P.M. Rain. Eliezer Rice and Stephen Fay here. Old Mrs. Knowlton and Mrs. Whipple here.

1740 May 27 (Tuesday). Molly rode with me to Cambridge. I went by Southborough. Colonel Woods Company from Sudbury. Din’d by him on Fish at Thomas Harringtons. Before night at Father Champney’s.136

1740 May 28 (Wednesday). I rode to Boston. Put up my Beast at Bracketts. Visited Brother Elias whose Affections were very flowing. Mr. Cooper137 on Ps. 2.10.11.12. Din’d at Brother Samuels. P.M. at Convention. Mr. White138 of Cape Ann, Moderator. Dr. Colman communicated his letter to Mr. Rutherford,139 the Irish minister at the Eastward and Several Things relating to the Spreading the Success of the Kingdom of Christ. N.B. Count Zinzendorf140 in Germany, a preacher of the Reformed Religion. N.B. The Money Collected in the Massachusetts for Mr. Torry141 last year amounted to upwards of £1200 and in Connecticut upwards of £300. I lodg’d with Mr. Weld142 of Upton at Brother Elias’s. N.B. Mr. Aaron Smith143 lodg’d there also.

1740 May 29 (Thursday). A.M. at Madam Thatchers144 and bought out of the Library of her venerable Husband, Willards Body,145 Shepherds Sincere Convert and sound Believer,146 Flavell’s147 A Saint indeed, Small New Testament in Lattin, and a quarto of Clean Paper. Then we repair’d to the Convention. Lecture preach’d by Mr. Prince on Isa. 9.7. The Collection amounted to £235. Din’d at Mr. Checkley’s.148 P.M. at the Sale of the late Mr. John Adams’s149 Books. I bought Melchior Adams’ Lives of the German Divines,150 Owen’s Theologoumena, and Aristotles works in Greek and Latin, 4 Tomes. At Mr. Fennells bought Crudens Concordance. N.B. Conversation with Mr. Jacques151 and Mr. Smith of Marlborough on the Affair of his settling there. Rode to Cambridge after Ten at night.

1740 May 30 (Friday). Father Champney absent and the Family in Concern. I rode over to College for Mr. Smith whose Company I had to Marlborough. Some Shower of Rain in the Journey. We din’d at Mr. Williams’s152 at Weston, but Mr. Williams not at Home. Late up to Marlborough by means of the Showers. Rain’d at Eve. Lodg’d at Dr. Gotts.

1740 May 31 (Saturday). Sent my Portmantle home by Neighbor Beriah Rice.153 I accompany’d Dr. Gott to Mr. Benjamin Bailys154 where lay Sick John Hambleton, son in law to Mr. Gamel. The Doctor judg’d he could not live long, and I acquainted John with it. His distress was very great respecting his Eternal Condition. I did not return home till middle of the Afternoon, by means of his Urgency and Earnestness to have me tarry with him in his low Condition, to direct and assist him in his Repentance and closing with Christ. He was very humble and broken for sin, full of passionate and repeated Crys to God and Christ, Sent for his Companions to ask their forgiveness, and to call ‘em to repentance and to charge ‘em to turn from sin to God. He fill’d up his Time with these Exercises—But I warn’d him of the Danger of trusting to them and how rarely a late Repentance was true, proceeding so much from the present Extremity, which forc’d it. Hicks weeding our Garden.

1740 June 1 (Sunday). A.M. I preach’d on Matt. 22.5, Repeating Sermon 808, 809. Lieutenant Ward155 and his Wife and Child, of Sturbridge, and Mr. Benjamin Lawrence156 din’d with us. John Hamleton alive yet. After Dinner came Mr. Park157 of Westerly and his Brother of Holliston, from Grafton where there was no meeting. Mr. Park preach’d on Matt. 18.3. N.B. Lieutenant Ward requested Baptism for his Child, but on Consideration of Disquietments between Him and the Church of Sturbridge, for some time Subsisting I pray’d him to wave the matter till I had Opportunity to examine into the State of his Case. He produc’d that Church’s vote of Acquittance and Charity with him but it being Dated so long ago as November and he manifesting great uncharitableness and laying heavy Charges upon that Church I still pray’d him to forbear insisting for Special privileges (though he be a member of that Church) till further Consideration, and because likewise it happened’d to be a Sabbath upon which we had many strangers from divers Towns round about who would have no right to be in what had pass’d at Sturbridge, etc.—upon which he withheld. Mr. Park tarried and lodg’d, but his Brother return’d to Holliston.

1740 June 2 (Monday). I wrote to Mr. Rice158 of Sturbridge by Mr. Stearns159 of Stoughton. Hicks160 weeding. N.B. I rode to see John Hambleton, at his Request by Eliazar Johnson. Now he had Hope.

1740 June 3 (Tuesday). Lieutenant Ward161 and his wife here again in their journey Home, and he more fully acquaint’d me with his Case. Late p.m. I rode over to Stephen Fays and Lieutenant Bakers. Had a Message that John Hambleton dy’d yesterday, but a little while after I left him. Hicks weeding. Mr. Aaron Smith here whilst I was from home.

1740 June 4 (Wednesday). Rode over, and Mr. Hezekiah How with me, to the Burying of John Hambleton. My Conversation with Mr. McAllister162 respecting his Troubles on account of his Daughter Elizabeth who was Suppos’d to have run away last Sabbath Night with John Hudson163 of Marlborough to Hampton to be marryed. Hicks finish’d weeding.

1740 June 5 (Thursday). Catechiz’d at the Meeting House. About 38 males and about 21 females. Showers most of the Day. Ebenezer went to Mr. Thurstons164 with Cotton and Linnen yarn to be wove by him, and p.m. I rode to Mr. Luke Rice with Yarn to be wove into Coverlids.

1740 June 6 (Friday). Mr. Daniel Warrin wrought for me p.m. Splicing Cedar Rails which Mr. Aaron Forbush got for me in Mr. Joseph Rice of Marlborough’s Swamp. Mr. Abraham Knowlton here. Troubles in Shrewsbury again upon the Affair of the Goddards.

1740 June 7 (Saturday). Mr. Cornelius Biglo promis’d to work for me in Hay time, if he goes not to Spain to the war. Lieutenant Baker165 brought a part of my Boards from Mr. Meads. Captain Forbush166 gave me a Swarm of Bees. Hot weather.

1740 June 8 (Sunday). Mal. 3.14. P.M. repeated on Mat. 22.5. Mrs. Stone of Thompson in Killingley and Deacon Forbush’s167 wife din’d with us. N.B. read the Letter from Marlborough. See Church Records.168

1740 June 9 (Monday). Visited Neighbour Silas Brigham who remains in Distraction. Thence I rode to Mr. Thomas Goodenows. Mr. Jonathan Hemingway came for my Wife but she could not go.

1740 June 10 (Tuesday). Thomas Hall came for my wife and she went with him to Marlborough. I rode to Neighbour Seth Rices and Deacon Tomlins.169 Lucy ill in the Night. Hezekiah Tomlin170 came into the House while we were asleep in the Night and lay in the Garrett on the wool till the morning unperceiv’d—And went off as Slyly likewise.

1740 June 11 (Wednesday). Deacon Fay and Deacon Forbush accompany’d me to Marlborough to the Ordination of Mr. Aaron Smith. The Council being form’d, the Church was call’d. Mr. Jabez Ward,171 Strengthened by Colonel Woods172 and Mr. William Witt,173 Objected First, against the Council, alledging that it was not what the Church of Marlborough had chose but what their Committee for appointing the Time of the Ordination and who had no Authority to go any further, had chose. This was answer’d from the Votes of the Church. Secondly that the Church were not ripe for ordaining Mr. Smith, for he had never seen, or Consented to their Original Covenant. This was removed by his Consenting to a Covenant which the Church, upon its being read to them, acknowledged and accepted. He further debated, and alledged many Things, and frequently repeated and insisted upon the Same over again. Mr. William Witt objected against the Council and so not owning them as such had prepar’d no reasons, but had divers to offer if there might be a regular Council call’d, and time to prepare himself. The Council noted that the Church had been regular in their Calling and choosing of this Council, nor any infringement of their Privileges, it having been their own proper act, and that the agrieved had had Sufficient Time to prepare themselves with their Reasons. Colonel Woods offer’d (as he Said) not by way of Objection or Opposition, but by way of Self Defence, what the hasty and precipitant proceeding of the Church had been, and his great Dissatisfaction therewith, which the Council by Examining the Records or Minutes thereof found to be very different (in their Apprehension) from what the Colonel had represented, and especially as to the Choice, the coming to the Choice, and the renewing and strengthening of it—it being by Continuation and adjournment November latter End to December 24 and the last meeting not till some time in February. The Colonel urg’d that not thinking the Church would come to a Choice neither he nor many Others of them acted—But it was made Evident that both Church and Town were fully apprized Sufficient time beforehand what the Business was, and might have come and acted if they had pleas’d—but that those persons were plainly desirous to clogg and impede the Church’s Settlement. When the Colonel declar’d his unpreparedness to offer his Reasons against Mr. Smiths settlement there, the Council desir’d him to reveal what the Reasons were if he did not offer the Defence of them. Colonel said he judg’d him unqualify’d for the Gospel ministry. Upon this the Council read the Testimonials of Sundry Ministers in the County of Essex concerning him; and the Moderator had given an Account of his Examination by a number of ministers at the Church’s express Desire, and the Result of it. And as to ordaining him without hearing him preach, there being but few in the Council, to be sure of the ministers, but what had, They who were of that number, that had not gave the Council to understand that they had taken equivalent Methods for Satisfaction in his ability for public Exercises, and were satisfy’d. Then the Council voted that they were ready (having chose a person to give the Charge—This was done at the Churchs express Desire—and another to give the Right Hand) to proceed to the Public Service. And the Church likewise voted that they were ready. Four o’Clock p.m., Mr. Williams of Weston pray’d. Mr. Wigglesworth preach’d on 1 Tim. 4.16. Mr. Prentice174 gave the Charge, and Mr. Loring175 the Right Hand. Sung Ps. 68.18.19.20. After supper Mr. Stone, Mr. Daniel Rogers,176 of College, and several others of us went to see the Colonel. N.B. Dr. Gott no hand in any of the Business of the Church or Council to Day. Deacon Brown177 of Weston rode with us as far as Captain Warrins. Late before we got home.

1740 June 12 (Thursday). Lieutenant King of Suffield, and his New marry’d wife (who was Mrs. Hannah Devotion)178 was here and din’d with us. P.M. Mr. Wigglesworth,179 Mr. Prentice, Deacon Thorn180 and Mr. Adams (the Two last of Ipswich) came. Mr. Prentice went home to Grafton and Deacon Thorn to Shrewsbury. The rest went with my wife and me to a raising Supper at Ensign Maynards. Mr. Wigglesworth lodg’d here.

1740 June 13 (Friday). Mr. Wigglesworth’s Horse and my Mare got out of the pasture and had got down to Mr. Jacob Amsdens before sun rise. His young Man brought ‘em back to us. My wife and I waited on Mr. Wigglesworth to Mr. Whipples where we din’d, and thence we rode up to Mr. Joseph Knowltons,181 and they would fain have perswaded us to ride up with them to Mr. Abraham Knowltons but I return’d. Mr. Caleb Rice and his Brother Payson182 here. N.B. Our Conversation on the Affair of Lieutenant Ward.

1740 June 14 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1740 June 15 (Sunday). I was not very well in the Morning, But Mr. Smith came from Marlborough to preach for me, yet with this proviso that I would go and preach for Mr. Prentice of Grafton who was ill. I undertook it, but could not perform with Life and Vigour. A.M. I preach’d on Ps. 73.24. P.M. on 2 Pet. 1.10. At Eve there was So great likelihood of Storm of Rain that I rode home being oblig’d to preach the next Day. Mr. Smith went to Marlborough before I got home.

1740 June 16 (Monday). I preach’d a Sermon to Young people from John 21.15, Which I wholly composed this Day. The Exercise at 3 p.m. N.B. Hicks Shingling the west End of my Barn.

1740 June 17 (Tuesday). Trooping and Training. I din’d with the Officers after Prayer. Colonel William Ward183 here, and he took the Names of Six persons who enlisted for the Expedition to Spain. Hicks a.m. on the Barn.

1740 June 18 (Wednesday). Mr. Baynes184 of Marlborough paving my back Yard. Mrs. Thankfull Rice here. Hicks on the Barn. Wrote to Mr. Noyes185 of New-haven, and my Wife to Mrs. Pierpoints.186 My wife and I din’d at Ensign Maynards, and after Dinner Mrs. Maynard rode with us over to Mr. Howards to see their sick Children, suppos’d to have the Throat Disease. Rainy Return home.

1740 June 19 (Thursday). Baynes paving—Hicks shingling. My wife and I rode over to Deacon Forbush and din’d there. The Deacon and his wife with us, we went to Mr. Daniel Forbush, Mr. Millers and Lieutenant Tainters. Lieutenant Tainter and his wife accompany’d us home. Jotham Maynard and Abigail Allen were marry’d.

1740 June 20 (Friday). Baynes paving.

1740 June 21 (Saturday). Mr. Baynes having finished his work, went home this Morning. My wife rode to Marlborough. Very Hot. P.M. my wife return’d before the great Thunder Storm which arose about 4 or 5 o’Clock. The Lightening very sharp. Rain’d very hard. Hicks at Half hilling part of the Day.

1740 June 22 (Sunday). Matt. 10.5 to 13. P.M. repeated the last on Matt. 22.5. Very weary at Eve.

1740 June 23 (Monday). Hot yet windy.

1740 June 24 (Tuesday). I rode over to Mr. Thomas Goodenow’s, To Mr. Allens,187 Mr. McCallisters whose child was Sick, Caruths,188 Oakes,189 Captain Eagers.190 Din’d at Mr. Bezaleel Eagers.191 Mr. Maverick192 of Stratford on his Journey home, overtook me as I was riding up to Mr. Robert Allens.193 I rode with him as far as to Mr. Cushings, return’d home about 5 p.m. Mr. Lyon of New Haven, Brazier, here. At Eve came Brother Breck194 from Springfield, and with him Brother Samuel Breck,195 who was upon his Journey from College to Springfield. The Scholars being dispers’d by reason of the prevalency of Throat distemper at Cambridge for which Reason the Commencement is also deferr’d for Six weeks.

1740 June 25 (Wednesday). Mr. Breck to Boston, Brother Samuel to Springfield. I rode up to Grafton to their Fast on account of the Throat Distemper. P.M. Mr. Prentice pray’d and Mr. Hall preach’d on Job 5.8.9. Mr. Cushing pray’d p.m. and I preach’d on Hos. 14.1. Rode home in the Eve accompany’d by Captain Fay and Mr. Jonathan Whipple.

1740 June 26 (Thursday). Mr. John Baker came from Mr. Simeon Haywards to desire me to visit their Sick Children. One of them was very bad of the Throat Distemper. Visited Mr. Caruth. Sent to Boston by Lieutenant Holloway. Visited the widow Fay. N.B. her Discourse of Sallery, etc.

1740 June 27 (Friday). I rode out to provide Help in my Haying—and to provide for my Journey next week. N.B. Mr. Whipple undertakes to get my Meadow Hay. Zachary Hicks came Home.

1740 June 28 (Saturday). I rode over (unsent for) to the Funeral of Mr. Haywards son Simeon who dy’d (as ‘twas thought) of the Throat Distemper. N.B. a great Mortality at Cambridge by it, especially in President Holyokes196 and Steward Boardmans197 Familys. At Southborough also. N.B. Mr. Moody198 of York at Sudbury that Mr. Loring might be with Mr. Edmund Brown at York, for the Murther of [blank] Bryant in the Gaol. Edward Whipple mowed for me, at the East End and back of the Barn.

1740 June 29 (Sunday). I was in no Small Conflict of Mind about my Sermons, having been hindred and call’d from Home most of the Days this Week. At length I determined to repeat my sermon on Matt. 24.44, from Luke 12.40, the latter on the account of the terrible Judgment of the Throat Distemper. Lieutenant Holloway, Mrs. Miller, Mrs. Thurston and Mrs. Walker at Dinner. P.M. Rain.

1740 June 30 (Monday). My wife, furnished with Lieutenant Tainters Horse, Set out with me for Cambridge. N.B. Several Familys on the Road in Southborough very Sick of the Throat Distemper. At Lieutenant Brighams, 5; at Mr. Ephraim Wards (who bury’d Two Children on Saturday last and his wife but a little before) Several. We got to Watertown so as to dine (at 2 or 3 o’Clock) at Mr. Benjamin’s. We were at Cambridge so Seasonably as to go to Boston and Lead up our Horses. We lodg’d at Brother Parkmans. Our Honored Mother Comfortable. Brother Elias remains much as he was—Very unable to help himself, His Reason Good, but his Passions Weak, and Soon in Excess, of Joy, Grief, etc.

1740 July 1 (Tuesday). We din’d at Brother Elias’s. P.M. Mr. Halyer and my Kinsman Elias perswaded me to go off into the Harbour to fish. We got aground by the Castle and did not get up home till 2 o’Clock next morning. A very Pleasant Time. We caught 13 tom Codd. Had Mr. Langdons Boat. Mr. Halyer lodg’d with us. My Wife lodg’d at Brother Alexander’s with sister Lydia Champney.

1740 July 2 (Wednesday). This Day was observ’d as a Day of Fasting and Prayer at Cambridge on the Account of the Throat Distemper there, which otherwise had been the Commencement. Din’d at Brother Samuel’s and Brother Breck with us. P.M. We went to the Baptist Meeting where Mr. Callender199 of Newport preach’d on 1 Cor. 11.28. After Lecture we went to Mr. Condeys200 Lodgings at Mr. Jarvis’s201 where were Mr. Chauncy,202 Harrison Gray,203 etc. At Eve at Mrs. Keggells,204 old Mr. Lorings, etc. Lodg’d at Brother Elias’s.

1740 July 3 (Thursday). Mr. Webb205 Lecture on Rev. 3.1.2. I din’d at Brother Alexander’s. My Wife at Brother Samuels, and with her din’d Dr. Smith206 of Shrewsbury. P.M. I was at Mr. John Barretts where were Mr. Barrett207 of Hopkinton and Mr. Cabbot208 of Thompson after which I was at Mr. Salters,209 with a young Association of Batchelors. At Eve at Brother Samuels and lodg’d there.

1740 July 4 (Friday). Din’d at Brother Parkman’s, his Son John and his Wife likewise there. P.M. Visited Mr. Robert Brecks wife—and Mr. John Breck. At Eve the Private Meeting which Should otherwise have been at Brother Samuels was remov’d to Brother Elias’s and I preach’d on Heb. 12.5. Lodg’d at Brother Elias’s.

1740 July 5 (Saturday). I was at Mr. Thatchers210 and bought the whole works of the Author of the Whole Duty of Man.211 Several Persons (Cousin Elias, and Two Elizas) accompany’d us to Charlestown. My Daughter Molly, who had been at Boston Several Weeks, being now to return home with us. Mounted between 11 and 12. Din’d at Brother Barretts212 at Cambridge, his wife having lately been deliver’d of a son. It was after one when we left Cambridge. N.B. The Distemper not so raging as last week, when no less than 8 dy’d therefrom. At Mr. Harringtons Tavern we had Mr. Belcher Hancocks Company to Marlborough. Got home between 9 and 10 and found all in Safety. D.G.

1740 July 6 (Sunday). A.M. Repeated Sermon on Mat. 24.44, from Luke 12.40. P.M. repeated sermon on 1 Tim. 1.5. A dry Time.

1740 July 7 (Monday). A very Mercifull Rain. Mrs. Hardy returning from her Brother Haywards acquaint’d me that he had lost another Child by the Throat Distemper.

1740 July 8 (Tuesday). In the Forenoon I was at the Funeral of Mr. Haywards Child. From thence I rode to Josiah Bowkers, call’d at John Bowkers213 and thence proceeded to Mr. Cushing214 to Association. Mr. Prentice, Mr. Loring and Mr. Frink215 were there. Mr. Loring gave us some account of his late Journey to York to visit Mr. Edmund Brown, late of Sudbury, under Condemnation for the Murther of [blank] Briant; and gave us a Concio on Eph. 6.18 and part of 19. Mr. Meacham216 of Coventry and Mr. Woodbridge217 of Hatfield came in. At night I returned home, because of Several Workmen mowing today for me. Scil. Mr. Cornelius Biglo, Mr. John Caruth and Jonathan Green. Mr. Biglo stay’d over night. At Eve came Mr. Solomon Prentice.

1740 July 9 (Wednesday). I rode to Shrewsbury round by Mr. Whipple’s. Mr. Biglo mow’d for me, made Hay etc. N.B. at Shrewsbury Mr. Prentice218 of Lancaster preach’d the Lecture on Ezek. 33.31–32.

1740 July 10 (Thursday). Busy about my Hay part of the forenoon. Disappointed of all in my Lecture. I repeated Sermon on Ps. 43.3.4. After Lecture Lieutenant Tainter and Neighbor Thurston were very helpfull about my Hay—pitching up what was in Disorder in the Barn and poling a Quantity that was abroad. A pritty hot Season.

1740 July 11 (Friday). [No entry.]

1740 July 12 (Saturday). Weather chang’d, windy and Cool. Jonas Warrin junior (Son of Jonas) mow’d. Mr. Biglo brought up Wheat, Books etc. in his Cart from Boston.

1740 July 13 (Sunday). Sacrament. A.M. on Ps. 65.4. P.M. the Number LXIV. P.M. on Mat. 10.14.15.16. Deacon Fay, old Mrs. Knowlton, Mrs. Dinah Goodenow,219 Mrs. Deliverance Fay,220 Mrs. Grow221 and Mrs. Walker222 din’d with us.

1740 July 14 (Monday). Catechiz’d a. and p.m. at the meeting House. My Sons busy (except Catechizing Time) about the Hay.

1740 July 15 (Tuesday). I rode to my ministerial Meadow, found Edward and Benjamin Whipple mowing. It was already somewhat Brown and ought to have been cutt before this Day. I rode to Mr. Whipples, Captain Fays, Mr. Grouts,223 Cousin Winchesters, Mr. Nathaniel Whitneys, Walkers, Tainters (where I din’d—N.B. Discourse with Bekky),224 old Mrs. Rice’s and thence home about 2 p.m.

1740 July 16 (Wednesday). Sam Bumpso gave me a Day at my Meadow. Edward and Benjamin Whipple mowing there also. N.B. Neighbor Warrin mowing for me at Home. Zebadiah Smith brought home Plad and Calamaneo for my Gown.

1740 July 17 (Thursday). Neighbor Warrin came between 10 and 11, mow’d till near noon then pitch’d up a great parcel of Hay in the Bay and Barn Floor and put the mow to rights. He mow’d a little and was so ill that he broke off before night, but help’d us in carrying in Hay. Mr. Eliezer Bellows carted home Boards for me, the Remainder of what I bought of Mr. Mead.

1740 July 18 (Friday). Mr. Francis Whipple carted home 4 Load of Hay from the Ministerial Meadow, His Father and Brother assisting him at the Meadow in poling, Loading etc.

1740 July 19 (Saturday). Mr. Caruth mow’d on the South side. P.M. the Boys pol’d in some Hay from the South side which was mow’d by Neighbor Warrin—and I rode to Shrewsbury.

1740 July 20 (Sunday). In the Morning I walk’d with Dr. Smith to See Solomon Hapgood, second son of Captain Hapgood225 who was very bad of the Throat Distemper. I preach’d on Hos. 6.1 a. and p.m. After Services Mr. Cushing came home, and went to Captain Hapgoods—But the sun being sett I returned home.

1740 July 21 (Monday). Thomas Winchester and Thomas Whitney went with Edward Whipple to mow in the Meadow. Thomas Whitney soon cutt himself and went home. My little Boys considerable of Hay to take Care of and nobody to help ‘em. P.M. Messrs. Whipples brought home (with one Team) Two Load of Hay from the Meadow and got up one Load from below my old House and southside. Sold them a Barrell of Cyder for 16 Shillings. N.B. Neighbor Cook226 and John Rogers in Contest before Colonel Nahum Ward.227

1740 July 22 (Tuesday). I rose early and rode as far as Mr. Biglo’s. Met Mr. Eliezer Bellows going to work for Ensign Maynard228 notwithstanding that he had promis’d to come and help me, for which I was disquieted with him. Call’d at Neighbor Abner Newtons and receiv’d £5. Neighbor Biglo and his Boy, neighbor Daniel Hardy and Jonas Warrin, junior mow’d for me. The weather Clear yet and the Earth very dry. The Staple in my Pump Handle drew out and Sunk down to the Box, which oblig’d me to pull up the pump Spire; and it being very long, Neighbor Hardy (who endeavor’d to hold it up) let it fall and broke off the Top nigh a foot and half which put us into much trouble for Water. N.B. Neighbor Jesse Maynard229 and his wife here in order to their owning the Covenant. N.B. Solomon Hapgood and Mr. Daniel Drury, Child, of Shrewsbury, bury’d, both having dy’d of the Throat Distemper.

1740 July 23 (Wednesday). Tom Black, Boy to Mr. Biglo, came late in the Morning to work; afternoon it rain’d so that it beat him wholly off. Before the Rain prevail’d much Mr. Francis Whipple brought Home a Load of Hay from the meadow.

1740 July 24 (Thursday). Rain still. The Seasonableness of the Rain may prevent our meadow repining for our Hay, though Two Load or more at the Meadow and 3 or 4 Days Mowing at home lyes expos’d. P.M. clear’d away and nigh 1/2 after 4 o’Clock Mr. Biglo came and Tom with him and mow’d till night the new ground above the Orchard and both of them lodg’d here.

1740 July 25 (Friday). Mr. Biglo went to the Meadow to mow the North Side of the Brook. Tom mow’d a little in the morning, and afterwards we all made and raked till night. N.B. Disappointed by Neighbor Daniel Warrin, whom I would fain have had for the afternoon although I willingly releas’d him to his own work in the morning. At Eve reckon’d with Neighbor Aaron Forbush. N.B. Timothy Warrin and wife here in the Evening.

1740 July 26 (Saturday). Mr. Biglo went again to mow the north side of the Meadow. Tom Rak’d at Home. N.B. Neighbor Daniel Warrin came to work, but I had engag’d help Sufficient, and my Business being near finish’d I let him have his Choice to go or Stay upon which he went home. Mr. Aaron Forbush came between 10 and 11 a.m. with his Team and got in Two Turns of Hay. Mr. Biglo afternoon came and help’d rake and Cock the Hay at Home.

1740 July 27 (Sunday). On Isa. 26.20.21. P.M. it rain’d.

1740 July 28 (Monday). Rain. Read Diogenese Laertius, volume 1.

1740 July 29 (Tuesday). Rode to Mr. Whipple’s and to the Meadow. Hazey all Forenoon. Clear, p.m. Mr. Zebulon Smith here and din’d with us. Flax pull’d.

1740 July 30 (Wednesday). Mr. Whipple brought home 3 Turns of Hay from the Meadow, which finish’d the Bargain with him, and he brought up 8 or 9 Cocks from the Low Ground at Home, the rest being too Wett.

1740 July 31 (Thursday). A Clear good Hay Day. We open’d and Spread what the Storms had Soak’d and recock’d it by the help of Neighbor Daniel Warrin who help’d me from noon till 4 o’Clock p.m. We pol’d in Some leavy Hay from the New Ground on the East Side of the upper Garden. At Night a Thunder Storm. The Two little Boys rak’d yesterday and today at the Meadow what Mr. Biglo mow’d, and Aaron Forbush junior (who went about the middle of the afternoon) cock’d it, about 28 Cocks. N.B. Girls to Huckleberrying.

1740 August 1 (Friday). Lowery. Mr. Joseph Crosby230 of Worcester here, and din’d with us. Rainy still. Timothy Warrin231 here at evening as were several others.

1740 August 2 (Saturday). Mr. Crosby having been to Southborough inform’d himself in the particulars of the Sudden Death of Mr. Jonathan Johnson there, which he related to us. How frequently doth God give us Warning, and call upon us to be ready also! Lowery Morning.

1740 August 3 (Sunday). Cloudy. On Ps. 91.1. Mr. Holloway din’d with us. Rainy Eve.

1740 August 4 (Monday). Rainy Day. Very great Frown of Providence on the Hay and Barley Harvest.

1740 August 5 (Tuesday). Lowery and Drizley Still. P.M. Clearer. Mr. Samuel Taylor of Southborough here. He inform’d me that Sometime agoe they had a Fast at Southborough on Account of the Throat Distemper, which Fast I never had heard a bitt of till now.

1740 August 6 (Wednesday). A bright Morning, which we have not had this long Time. I think ever since Thursday last. Mr. Barrett, going to Shrewsbury, call’d here. Letter from Mr. Lydius of Albany, informing that the Rices232 of Canada desire one of their Brethren of New England would go up to Albany and meet them on September 6 next, in order to their making a Visit hither. Nei[gh]bour Seth Rice233 here with the Letter, himself under Indispositions.

1740 August 7 (Thursday). We poled in the last of our Hay at Home, which was Cutt Several Weeks agoe.

1740 August 8 (Friday). Nei[gh]bor Caruth reap’d my Wheat. About 14 shock from less than half an Acre.

1740 August 9 (Saturday). Mr. Biglo and How with him reap’d half an acre of Rye, so that it was all secur’d at once.

1740 August 10 (Sunday). On Mat. 10.17 to 20. Luke 12.21. Dr. Smith of Shrewsbury here p.m. and supp’d with me. He had been to See Mr. Bradishes Family, Three of which had the throat Distemper. Beriah Rice had also a Child sick of the Same.

1740 August 11 (Monday). My Wife rode with me to Marlborough. I visited Colonel Woods234 who was much indispos’d by Hydropic and Asthmatic Disorders. I din’d with Mr. Smith, where also din’d Mr. Cushing and Master Loring. We visited the Colonel after Dinner and were also at the Doctors and at Captain Williams.235 While we were at the Captain’s a great storm of Rain arose. We rode home in the Evening after the Rain.

1740 August 12 (Tuesday). Our Water in the Pump So fails that we fetch’d up a Barrell from the old well on a pair of Thills I made for that purpose. P.M. Mr. Thomas Bruce here. I rode down to Mr. Bradish’s236 to see his Wife and Daughter who were sick.

1740 August 13 (Wednesday). I rode over to see Neighbor Beriah Rice’s Child which had the Throat Distemper but was better. P.M. Dr. Smith here. I was inform’d that Mr. Simon Goddard237 of Shrewsbury has lost a Third Child of the awful Disease.

1740 August 14 (Thursday). I went to Mr. Aaron Forbush238 and perswaded him to bring home the Hay which Mr. Biglo mow’d on the north side of the meadow the 25 and 26th of last month and he carted it home accordingly.

1740 August 15 (Friday). The Widow Mary Rice,239 Neighbor Grow240 here. I wrote and sent a Letter to my Nephew Benjamin Parkman,241 who is gone to settle at Philadelphia.

1740 August 16 (Saturday). Ebenezer rode over to Mr. Francis Pierce’s.

1740 August 17 (Sunday). On Luke 12.21. Mrs. Bathsheba Pratt,242 Mrs. Rebecca Warrin,243 Mrs. Joanna Forbush244 and Mrs. Sarah Bruce245 din’d with us. At Noon I receiv’d a Letter from Mr. Ebenezer Morse246 to request me to preach at Rutland this Day sennight—Mr. Frink having abdicated, but it must be (by Divine Permission) our Communion Day. At Eve I sent an answer by Dr. Smith who had been to See Two more of Mr. James Bradish’s Children Sick of the Throat Distemper. Scil. Jonas and Joseph.

1740 August 18 (Monday). Town Meeting respecting a Grammar Schoolmaster. A very rainy Day.

1740 August 19 (Tuesday). Mr. Asher Rice247 here to take my Advice respecting his Journey to Albany.

1740 August 20 (Wednesday). Mrs. Rachel Bowker248 visited us, and Din’d here, as did Dr. Smith likewise. Ebenezer to Shrewsbury and got the mare Shod.

1740 August 21 (Thursday). Great Expectation of Mr. Barrett to preach but he came not. I repeated on Ps. 43.3.4. After Lecture Brother Hicks and David Baverick put up a Trough on Back Side of my House. N.B. Ebenezer and Samuel Hicks rode to Cambridge, the latter to bring up the Mare.

1740 August 22 (Friday). Very Rainy Day. Brother Samuel Breck came, being on his Journey from Springfield to Cambridge.

1740 August 23 (Saturday). Clear Weather. Brother Samuel went on his Journey to Cambridge. Brother Hicks put up the Troughs at the Back side of my House. Samuel Hicks return’d from Cambridge.

1740 August 24 (Sunday). Ps. 65.4. Heb. 13.20.21. Sacrament.

1740 August 25 (Monday). Early in the Morning I visited Mr. Bradish’s Family. Sarah very low, but Somewhat reviv’d. I found her Smoaking. I proceeded therefore on my Journey. Stopp’d at Mr. Swift’s. Din’d at Two o’Clock at Cambridge. Went to Boston. Ebenezer went to Charlestown to bring back the mare to Cambridge. Brother Elias weak yet—he had a fitt this Day.

1740 August 26 (Tuesday). The Several Companys of Volunteers for the Expedition against Cuba, quarter’d in Boston, muster’d to Day to receive their Bounty Money from the Province. Four Companys were compleat in Arms, and five were unprovided. Din’d at Brother Samuels. P.M. at Mr. John Brecks. At Eve at Mr. Keggels, and Supp’d at Brother Alexander’s.

1740 August 27 (Wednesday). Commencement. Din’d in the Hall. My Kinsman Elias249 Receiv’d his Degree, but did not dispute. Lodg’d at Father Champney’s, and Cousen Elizabeth,250 Her Brother and Mr. Halyer at Deacon Sparhawks.251 Sorrowful News of the Death of Mr. Stoddard252 of Chelmsford, who dy’d in his Well.

1740 August 28 (Thursday). A.M. at Sir Gay’s253 Chamber where was Mr. Obadiah Ayres,254 Mr. Samuel Coolidge,255 etc. Din’d at Sir Princes256 Chamber. P.M. Negro Boys in Masquerade. Eve at Mr. Rogers.257

1740 August 29 (Friday). Brother Hicks goes to Boston dissatisfy’d about the Managements of the Directors of the Land Bank. Ebenezer so ill he could not go to Boston as was propos’d, that he might go to School. I undertook my Journey home. Call’d at Mr. John Hunts258 at Watertown (who has lately set up a Still House there). There I found Mr. Cheney259 of Brookfield who was riding home also. We din’d at Mr. Williams’s260 at Weston where were Mr. Seccomb261 and Halery262 of Newton (a young preacher). At Marlborough We found Colonel Woods in a low State of Health. Call’d at Dr. Gotts. Mr. Cheney rode to our House and lodged here.

1740 August 30 (Saturday). Mr. Cheney went on his Journey. The Throat Distemper increases in Westborough. Sarah Bradish263 (a Member of our Church) was bury’d the Day before Yesterday, and Joseph Bradish, her brother of about 7 or 8, was bury’d yesterday, and Some Number are Sick.

1740 August 31 (Sunday). On Micah 6.9 and p.m. on Zech. 7.5, preparatory to the Fast which with the Advice of the Deacons of the Church and the Selectmen of the Town I appointed to be on Thursday next. The persons for whom prayers were ask’d to Day, being Sick of the Throat Distemper were Richard Barns, Hannah (wife of Noah) Rice, Robert Bradish, Miriam Fisk, Abigail Dunton, a child of Thomas Bruce, Four Children at Mr. Gamels.264

1740 September 1 (Monday). I visited Captain Warrin, Thomas Bruce’s and Samuel Hardys Familys. N.B. Captain Warrins Son Silas ill with the Throat Distemper, but walks about. Mrs. Hardy ill with the Same and Several of their Children.

1740 September 2 (Tuesday). My Wife rode to Mr. Winchesters265 a.m. and with me p.m. to Mr. Wheelers,266 Mr. Balls,267 etc. and thence over the Hill to Mr. Gamels, Jesse Maynards,268 etc. Simon Tainter junior our Company back. Captain Hapgood of Shrewsbury burys his Eldest Son of the Throat Distemper to Day. Very Cool Evening.

1740 September 3 (Wednesday). A great Frost last night.

1740 September 4 (Thursday). A Fast was kept by this Church and Town on occasion of the Throat Distemper coming among us. I began the Exercises. Mr. Cushing preach’d on Amos 4.10 the first and last Clauses. Mr. Cushing prayed p.m. and Mr. Prentice of Grafton preach’d on Jonah 3.10. Lieutenant Brigham269 of Southborough and his wife, Mr. Phinehas Hardy and Neighbor Zebulon Rice’s wife at Supper with us. At Eve I rode down to visit Neighbor Thomas Bruce’s Family, Two of whose Children are very bad.

1740 September 5 (Friday). I improv’d the forenoon as Separately as I could to my usual Exercises. P.M. undertook to make a Visit to Colonel Woods who (as I hear) grows worse, but a great Storm of Rain, Thunder, etc. prevented my going any further than Captain Warrins where I was confin’d (much against my Inclination at this Time) Several Hours.

1740 September 6 (Saturday). Mr. Samuel Coolidge here. He was riding to Leicester. I rode with him as far as Shrewsbury. I din’d at Mr. Cushings, and thence I rode to Rutland at the repeated Sollicitation of Mr. Ebenezer Morse, and Captain Howard by him, Mr. Frink having ceased to preach. I lodg’d at Mr. Frinks.

1740 September 7 (Sunday). An exceeding rainy Day. I preach’d at Rutland a.m. on Ps. 122.6 to the End. P.M. on Jude 10.21. At Evening came Captain Stevens,270 Ensign Moses How271 and a Third to see me. Mr. Frink and I sat up till past 1 o’Clock upon his Farewell Sermon on July 27 last, from Rev. 3.3.272

1740 September 8 (Monday). A.M. I visited Ensign How and Jonathan Goodenow, and Mr. Frink accompanying me as far on my Journey as to the Grist Mill, there he stopp’d. I call’d to see Mr. Calwell273 and old Mr. Clark, and Lieutenant Davis274 who had Several Children sick of the Throat Distemper with whom I pray’d. N.B. Dr. Fletcher275 accompany’d me down below Biglo’s.

1740 September 9 (Tuesday). At the Burial of Thomas Bruce’s Child who dy’d by the Throat Distemper.

1740 September 10 (Wednesday). My wife rode with me to Marlborough being ask’d by Dr. Gott to meet with a young widow whom he purposed to bring from Boston to his House this Evening. We visited Colonel Woods whose illness So increases that this Day he is got up into his Chamber from which tis fear’d he will never come down. We waited at Evening for the Doctor at his House till we were weary, and then return’d home without seeing him.

1740 September 11 (Thursday). I rode up to the Fast at Shrewsbury accompany’d by Mr. Stone.276 Mr. Cushing pray’d and Mr. Stone preach’d on Ps. 57.1.277 Mr. Prentice of Grafton pray’d p.m. and I preach’d from Mic. 6.9.278 I return’d at Evening.

1740 September 12 (Friday). Ensign Forbush279 sent his Son and a Yoke of Cattle, Sergeant Bruce a Son and a Yoke of Cattle and Captain Warrin280 his Oxen, and plough and Harrow to plough and harrow [sic] my rugged Ground on the South Side.

1740 September 13 (Saturday). Benjamin Forbush281 work’d for me, a.m. mowing Bushes. P.M. took care of Stalks. Daniel How282 came part of the afternoon and help’d.

1740 September 14 (Sunday). On Mic. 6.9. Eccl. 8.11. Mrs. Billings283 din’d with us.

1740 September 15 (Monday). P.M. Mr. Baxter284 and Madam accompany’d by Captain Winchesters285 wife of Framingham, came, and they lodged here. N.B. This Day arriv’d Neighbor Eliezer Rice from Albany with his Brother Ozorongoughton286 and Mr. Tarbell287 for a Companion and Interpreter.

1740 September 16 (Tuesday). Mr. Baxter and Madam, Captain Winchester and his wife rode from hence to go to Brimfield. I rode with them as far as Neighbor Seth Rice’s, where I saw the Captives. P.M. at the Burying of another of Thomas Bruces Children and visited one of Captain Warrins which was very low of the Same Distemper. Towards Evening the Captives came to view to [sic] old House where Mr. Rice us’d to dwell, and they were at my House, Some number of the Neighbours accompanying them.

1740 September 17 (Wednesday). Mr. Baines288 of Marlborough came to digg my Well. A.M. it rain’d. P.M. he wrought. I rode to the South and South west of the town, was at old Mr. Rice’s. The Chief had been there and remember’d the Old Gentleman. They were down with him to view the place where he was carry’d away Captive. N.B. I wrote to the Governor concerning the Captives.

1740 September 18 (Thursday). The Funeral of Captain Warrins little Daughter, which dy’d by the Throat Distemper. The Strangers went from us to Groton to visit Captain Tarbell. They were at my House as they went. Mr. Baines went off in the Morning to look him up an hand to work with him, he having taken my well by the Great [?]. In the Bargain we agreed that he Should Dig till he found Water to my Reasonable Content, and Should Stone the Well compleat and be four feet within the wall at the Bottom, for Ten pounds and his own and a man’s keeping, and I should draw him Stones convenient about the Well. And in Case he Should not find a good Spring this Season the well shall be covered up till another, only he Should receive five pounds of money and the remainder when the Well should be finished whenever it Shall be.

1740 September 19 (Friday). Very Cold, Windy but bright Morning. Mr. Baines came late from Marlborough and Sett to his work without an Hand. Mr. Whitefield came last Night to Boston.

1740 September 20 (Saturday). Baines at Work part of the Day—but went home about an Hour after Dinner. Mr. Rice return’d from Groton.

1740 September 21 (Sunday). Ps. 126, chiefly 10, 3 and 4. P.M. Eccl. 8.11.

1740 September 22 (Monday). Rain. P.M. Captain Eager289 and Lieutenant Holloway290 here.

1740 September 23 (Tuesday). Rain a.m. As Soon as I had din’d (Somewhat after one o’Clock) I Set out from Cambridge. At Sudbury lit on Mr. Samuel Bagnal going to Boston. I rode with him and got to Town before nine o’Clock. Lodg’d at Brother Elias’. N.B. Ebenezer lodges there and goes to the North Latin School. This he has done nigh a fortnight. N.B. An Awfull Providence yesterday at Mr. Checkleys291 meeting House in Boston. Three or Four Persons kill’d in the crowd, and many wounded—among the wounded sister Esther292 and her Daughter. Mr. Whitefield preaches Twice every Day to the astonishment of all.

1740 September 24 (Wednesday). Having receiv’d no return from the Governor293 touching the Captives with us, I waited on his Excellency, who told me the Governor and Council had directed the Secretary to write me an Answer and he had done it, but knew not where it lodg’d, or where it miscarried. It rained a.m. and detain’d me at Irelands till past 11. From thence I rode up to Dana’s, on the South part of Cambridge, and to Father Champney’s from whence I went to College where Mr. Whitefield had been preaching. His Text was 2 Cor. 2.17. I din’d at Brother Barretts and thence went to Mr. Appletons294 where Mr. Whitefield was. N.B. The Account which he gave of the Time and Manner of the powerful working of the Spirit of God upon him. P.M. He preach’d in the College Yard again; his Text was Mat. 11.28. It was to incredible multitudes, and with wondrous power. N.B. I wrote to Captain Tarbell. At Eve I rode over to Medford with Mr. Turell295 and his wife. Lodg’d at my Kinsman Bradshaws.296

1740 September 25 (Thursday). Mr. Turell rode with me to Charleston. Mr. Whitefield preach’d the publick Lecture at Boston. His Text John 2.11. P.M. he preach’d at Charlestown on John 3.3. At Evening only Sister rode up with me to Cambridge. Mr. Tainter of Westborough having taken my Portmantle.

1740 September 26 (Friday). We rode to Dr. Roby’s297 and din’d there. From thence to Marlborough to see Colonel Woods who was by this Time reduced to a very low State by the Hydrops Pectoris. In the middst of many Fears respecting his Sincerity, he maintained an humble Hope in God. I pray’d with him and took leave. Call’d at the Doctors and return’d Home (with my Sister Willard298 with me). N.B. Mr. Baines came on the 23d near night, and the next Day his Young Man, one Merritt, and they both work’d daily at the Well. Sam Bumpso came on the 24 and pinch’d up my Thrashing Floor. Mr. Thomas Billings came for Lieutenant Holloway and Sow’d nigh Three pecks of Rye upon my New Ground on the South Side. And the Cattle were brought from the woods. Sam Bumpso and Ezekiel Pratt wrought wheat.

1740 September 27 (Saturday). Sam Bumpso Thrashing. Mr. Baines and Merritt digging. Eliezer Rice rode to Groton for Mr. Tarbell in order to his going down, at the Command of the Governor, to Boston.

1740 September 28 (Sunday). Repeated on John 3.36. Mr. Tarbell came after meeting from Groton.

1740 September 29 (Monday). The Captives went to Boston. In the middle of the Night Mr. Sables came from the Secretary with another Letter concerning the Captives, the first having miscarried. But I had already taken effectual Care.

1740 September 30 (Tuesday). Rain. Sister Hicks was last night deliver’d of the Sixth Son. Father Champney came up. He brings word that Colonel Woods dy’d last night. Sam Bumpso thrash’d in the Morning. Thomas Winchester and Sam Bumpso righted my Fence which divides the upper from the lower Field.

1740 October 1 (Wednesday). Sam Bumpso Thrashing Wheat Still. Finish’d it somewhat before night, and winnow’d it over a first Time. Mr. Baxter and Madam in their return from Brimfield call’d here a while. P.M. I visited Thomas Bruces Wife, Ensign Forbushs Child, and Neighbor Cooks299 Children who were sick, and had my Mare shod. Mrs. Fisher and Mrs. Whittemore visited Sister Hicks.

1740 October 2 (Thursday). Thomas and Joshua Winchester gathering apples and Corn in the upper Field. Carry’d in Stalks, etc. I rode to the Fast at Hopkinton which was on account of the Throat Distemper. I pray’d and preach’d a.m. on 1 Pet. 5.6 and at noon I rode to Marlborough to the Funeral of my worthy Friend Colonel Benjamin Woods. There were Mr. Swift,300 Loring, Cushing, Stone, Rice (of Sturbridge).301 Mr. Swift pray’d. Colonel William Ward,302 Major Keyes,303 Captain Amsden,304 Samuel Brigham Esquire,305 Captain Williams306 and Captain Barnard307 were the Bearers. I lodg’d at Madam Woods’s with Mr. Swift. N.B. Baines and Marritt came to work about noon at the well.

1740 October 3 (Friday). I return’d home. Baines and Marritt at the well. Exceeding Cold at Night.

1740 October 4 (Saturday). Baines and Marritt at the Well. They have got down about 21 feet. Very cold. Mr. John Ballantine308 came from Hopkinton this Evening to preach for me. At the Funeral of Ensign Forbush’s Child which dy’d of the Throat Distemper.

1740 October 5 (Sunday). Greatly afflicted with the Cattle breaking into the Corn. Rainy Day. Mr. John Ballantine preach’d a.m. on 1 Tim. 5.22. P.M. on Eccl. 1.2. The Chief, Rice not well. Was at my House at Eve as he went from his Brother Wards to his Brother Seths. In the middle of the Night was call’d out of my Bed because the Cattle had broke into the Corn.

1740 October 6 (Monday). I rode with Mr. Ballantine a mile or Two towards Hopkinton. Was at Ensign Newtons,309 Charles Rice’s, and other Neighbors. Din’d with the Captain who was grown better. P.M. Lieutenant Baker310 Sent his son and Team and Neighbor Pratt311 his Moses to gather my Half of the Lower Field of Corn, Beans, etc. Several Neighbors at Eve.

1740 October 7 (Tuesday). Baines and Marritt again at the well. Paul Fay Sent by Cornet Howard to help me. He carted Stones for the well with Deacon Tomlins312 Oxen and Neighbor Hows Cart. Cold winds, but bright Sun.

1740 October 8 (Wednesday). Baines and Marritt at the Well. The Captives went off, desiring Prayers in our Congregation for them. N.B. Captain Tarbell of Groton return’d home. I rode 2 or 3 Miles with him to Shew him the Road. N.B. His levelling Rice and his Brother, etc. I visited Mr. Jacob Rice313 and his Family, and Mrs. Thankful Rice.314

1740 October 9 (Thursday). In great perplexity in the fore part of the Day by Reason of the Cattle and Hoggs breaking in upon my few Apples, tossing about the piles of Stalks, etc. Old Mr. Maynard at my urgent request Sent his son Ebenezer who with his Cousens Team carted the Stalks into the Barn and the Apples over to Mr. Hows Mill. Mr. Cushing preach’d my Lecture on Luke 16.11, 2 last words. Baines and Warrin work’d at the well, Marritts arm being sprain’d. Husk’d at Eve, but my wife not well.

1740 October 10 (Friday). Last Night my Wife had a terrible Convulsion Fitt, But through Gods great mercy it did not continue long. She by Degrees came to her Senses again. Brother Hicks was call’d and sent for Dr. Gott. His young man came, he being himself at Boston, celebrating his own Nuptials.315 The young man attempted to Bleed my Wife but miss’d the Veins Some Number of Times; but when daily Light came on he succeeded and she bled freely. She was in her pregnancy 4 or 5 Months gone. The bleeding She judg’d was very beneficial to her. Mr. Baines went home.

1740 October 11 (Saturday). Very Cold and Raw. Old Mr. Maynard316 and his Son Nathan cut and Carted Home Two Load of Wood. Dr. Gott and his young man here.

1740 October 12 (Sunday). Sacrament. I preach’d on Ps. 126.3.4 a. and p.m. Deacon Fay, Mrs. Knowlton and Mrs. Whipple din’d with us. After meeting Mr. Ezekiel Upham of Sturbridge here.

1740 October 13 (Monday). Dr. Gott and his young man here. Catechiz’d at the meeting House a. and p.m.

1740 October 14 (Tuesday). Notwithstanding that it was Somewhat rainy My Wife and I rode down to Marlborough to attend upon the preaching of the Reverend Mr. George Whitefield. My Neighbor Barns carried my Sister Willard, Daniel How carried my Daughter Molly, and old Mr. Green317 carried Thomme. Mr. Whitefield preach’d at Sudbury in the forenoon, and came about 1/2 after 3 this afternoon. He preach’d to a great Assembly from Luke 18.14. N.B. Governor Belcher present. In Dr. Gotts Name I asked Mr. Whitefield and his Fellow Travellers to his House and they accordingly went, but could not be perswaded to make any Stay nor to lodge Short of Worcester, even although the weather was rainy. I Supp’d at Mr. Smiths in Company with Mr. Dorr, Mr. Stone, and Mr. Hemingway318 of Townshend, but I lodg’d at the Doctors. My Sister rode home with Captain Warrin, and Thomme with Mr. Green, but My Wife and Molly Stay’d because of the Rain. N.B. Mr. Dorrs Account of their Troubles in Mendon Strengthened by the Testimony of Mr. Bruce319 of the Same Town.

1740 October 15 (Wednesday). My wife Stays at Marlborough. Molly rode home with me. When I came home I had the Sorrowful Sight of the Mischief done by my Cattle breaking in upon my Corn which lay husk’d in the Barn, for I could have no Convenience to carry it up. The Disaster respecting the Corn was so much the more trouble some as my Corn was exceeding Short having but half the Field and what there was was exceeding poor and mean and soft. P.M. James Bradish so kind as to give me the cutting of Three Load of Wood, and the Carrying up the good Corn which I had in the Barn, which the Cattle did not get over to (but to the Soft Corn only). N.B. The good Corn carry’d up from the Barn was 14 or 15 Basketts—and this was the biggest part of my Corn this Year.

1740 October 16 (Thursday). Neighbor Daniel Warrin kill’d a small shoate for me which weigh’d 44 pound. Lieutenant Tainter Carted 3 Load of wood for me. P.M. at the Burial of the Child of Mr. Noah Rice. N.B. This is the Third Funeral at which I have been when Bearers have had Gloves and their minister none. Nigh Evening I rode up to Daniel Warrin, junior at Shrewsbury and to neighbor Eliezer Rice’s. N.B. Dr. Gott brought home his Wife, but I could not wait upon him.

1740 October 17 (Friday). Brother Samuel Breck320 brought up my wife from Marlborough, who had been there ever since Mr. Whitefields preaching there. Thomme had ride down today to wait upon his Mother also.

1740 October 18 (Saturday). Breck return’d. P.M. Mr. Dodge of Marlborough and Mr. Pomeroy321 of New Haven here. The latter tarried over the Sabbath. N.B. The great hindrance by Company to me in my Studys.

1740 October 19 (Sunday). On 1 Cor. 3.9 a. and p.m. Repeating partly from Sermon on Acts 26.16.17.18; the last Sermons on that Text from page 36 to 40, and from page 60 ad finem.

1740 October 20 (Monday). Mr. Pomeroy set out on his Journey. Town Meeting for my Support—granted an hundred and Twenty pounds (without mention of the wood, but a very cold season; Ground mostly covered with Snow in the Morning) in Case I supply the pulpit this Year.

1740 October 21 (Tuesday). Mr. Baynes came; went to work after noon. He had been absent so long that he spent all the Afternoon in emptying the water out of the well. Mr. Cushing here. Three Barrels and a part of a 4th of Cyder made by Mr. How, of my apples. N.B. Silas Warrin322 brought the whole home. I rode to Neighbor Thomas Goodenows and to Mr. Elieser Beemans first of Evening. N.B. Samuel Allen with me.

1740 October 22 (Wednesday). Eleaser Williams help’d Mr. Baynes at the well. Mr. Baynes early in the morn kill’d a Shoate for me which weighed 60 and which I got Mr. Jesse Brigham to carry to my Mother at Boston. Marritt thrash’d Rie.

1740 October 23 (Thursday). Mr. Daniel Warrin work’d with Mr. Baynes at the Well. Eliza Newton Sick.

1740 October 24 (Friday). Storm of Rain, a.m. Cold. Very difficultly perswaded Mr. Baynes to go on with the Work when it clear’d up, but Mr. Warrin came and was forward and then he consented. Greatly Troubled about my Trading with Mr. Warrin, he apprehending that I had sold him a young Sow which I did not judge I had properly and really bargained away to him.

1740 October 25 (Saturday). No Sign of a Good Spring yet. They dugg till more than the Middle of the Afternoon and then broke off for this year.

1740 October 26 (Sunday). On Mat. 10.21.22. 1 Cor. 3.9. Mr. Pool323 of Reading din’d here. At Eve I rode to Deacon Newtons again to see his Daughter Eliza who was very bad with the Throat Distemper.

[1740 October 27 (Monday)?] P.M. I rode accompany’d by Mr. Whipple to see Mr. Seth Hudson324 who was sick. Call’d at Mr. Allens325 and at Mr. Pilatiah Rice’s.326 Heard that Mr. Whitefield was taken up and carry’d off.

1740 October 28 (Tuesday). Ministers Meeting at my House. Rain p.m. Mr. Loring, Mr. Cushing, and Mr. Stone. Mr. Dorr also of Mendon came. I deliver’d a Concio on 1 Cor. 2.9.

1740 October 29 (Wednesday). Mr. Dorr preach’d the Lecture on Prov. 29.18. P.M. my sister and I rode to Mr. Tainters327 to See a Child there Sick of the Throat Distemper.

1740 October 30 (Thursday). Mr. Tainter, Mr. Harrington,328 Mr. Aaron Forbush and Warrin came to take down my wild steer. They perswaded me rather to fell [sell?] him and buy my Beef notwithstanding the keeping I had bestow’d and I consented and Sold him to Mr. Harrington for £13. Mr. Hezekiah Ward of Sturbridge here. We Shut up a Third Swine for Pork. Exceeding Cold for the Time of Year.

1740 October 31 (Friday). Mr. Hezekiah How and Eliezer Rice got down poles to cover my well with. I bought a pair of Steer one coming 4 which I had for 11£ 5 Shillings, and another coming 5 which was valued at 12£ 10, for which I was to give him a Young Cow with Calf, valued at 8£ 10, and a Red Steer coming 4 valued at 7£ 15, and he to give me in money 3£ 15. A.M. I rode to Marlborough to wait upon Mr. Aaron Smith in bringing home his New wife. Lodg’d at Dr. Gotts upon whose new wife I now wished [blank] also.

1740 November 1 (Saturday). In the Morning I got my Horse Shod at Mr. William Witts.329 I broke fast at Mr. Smiths, brought up Sally Gott330 to tarry a while at our House, but we rode first to the Burial of Joseph Warrin Son of Neighbour Thomas Warrin who dy’d of the Throat Distemper at Lieutenant Tainters,331 and was bury’d from thence. I din’d at Lieutenant Tainters. A Cold Season.

1740 November 2 (Sunday). Repeated Isa. 26.9. P.M. 2 Cor. 6.1. Mrs. Ball (wife of Nathan) din’d with us. News that Mother Parkman was ill, Brother Elias worse, etc.

1740 November 3 (Monday). Brother Hicks carry’d down Sister Willard to Boston upon my Mare. Cold. Marritt and Dunton finish’d thrashing my Rye, and p.m. Cut Wood. Matthias Rice332 here.

1740 November 4 (Tuesday). Snow storm. Neighbour John Rogers kill’d a Shoat for me (weigh’d 50).

1740 November 5 (Wednesday). A Thaw. Wett weather.

1740 November 6 (Thursday). Covering up my well it being very pleasant weather and the Earth open. Much Dirt had drop’d into the well by means of the Frosts. Mr. Mead here and Mr. Billings;333 the latter inform’d me that the Committee for the School had sent for Mr. Jenison334 to keep our school for Two Months over on the North side, and That Corner had met, agreed and rais’d Money for his preaching to them, all on the North of the Road; and Mr. Wheeler one of the said Committee was now down for him. Not a word of all which had I ever heard of till this Day.

1740 November 7 (Friday). Jejun. Priv. At Eve Mr. Matthias Rice and his wife here.

1740 November 8 (Saturday). A very great Storm of Rain. The Rain exceeding plentifull.

1740 November 9 (Sunday). 2 Cor. 6.1. All Coran, [?] absent. Mr. Bradish and Mrs. Walker din’d with me. I begg of God we may not continue to receive his Grace in vain.

1740 November 10 (Monday). Mr. Matthias Rice bought a Barrow shoat, weight 52. Mr. Warrin winnow’d my Rye. 11 Bushels and a Peck.

1740 November 11 (Tuesday). Mr. Daniel Forbush335 came and mended my Chimney, on the north side under the Roof of the House, a part of which we took off and clos’d up again. He pointed round the Chimney, and the Kitchen Jamms etc. My Wife rode to Marlborough with Brother Hicks upon my mare, to be blooded, and return’d at Evening. Lieutenant Tainter and Mr. Charles Rice got me down several turns of wood with my Oxen. In the Evening Charles Woods336 was married to Phebe Rice. A Considerable Number of young persons and others present. Put up the mare tonight in the Barn.

1740 November 12 (Wednesday). Squawly, Snowy, etc. last night. Cold blustering Winds this morning. Neibbour [sic] Cook here at Evening desiring a church meeting, which I promis’d him with all Convenient Speed. N.B. on the 12th Mr. Eliezer Rice here and took away my young brindled Cow, with Calf, and a young Steer coming 4, according to bargain for his Cattle. I am indebted to him 7.10.0 overplus.

1740 November 13 (Thursday). Storm of Snow, very Cold, and the Meeting House very cold and uncomfortable. Several of the Casements down and others very loose and open. I Spake to the people with some Resentment because I had twice Spoken in Private without Effect. I preach’d, though through much Difficulty, on Eph. 5.20. It continues to Snow, and is a very Difficult, Cold Time. My Cattle out yet.

1740 November 14 (Friday). Snowy and Cold. Could not Succeed to get my Barn fitted for my Cattle.

1740 November 15 (Saturday). Very Cold. Got up Six of my Cattle. Ensign Maynard337 got me 2 Turns of wood. Rainy a.m. Reckon’d with Mr. Jonah Warrin.338 N.B. Several men at the meeting House endeavoring to Mend the Windows.

1740 November 16 (Sunday). Very Cold. On Isa. 26.9. P.M. repeated sermon 1 on Ps. 5.7. Mrs. Bellows (wife of Ithamar) din’d here.

1740 November 17 (Monday). Phinehas Forbush339 p.m. cut wood gratis. Cattle got into the Barn. Eve Stormy.

1740 November 18 (Tuesday). A great Storm of Snow. Very Cold and tedious. Thomas not Well. The Business lay on me,

1740 November 19 (Wednesday). Sent by Brother Hicks to Ebenezer. At Evening Mr. Jenison and Mr. Wheeler and the rest of the school Committee. N.B. They agreed with Mr. Jenison to keep School for £65 per annum.

1740 November 20 (Thursday). Neighbor Aaron Forbush and Hezekiah Pratt kill’d Three Swine for me. Weight 141, 118, 99. Neighbor Warrin building me a Hovel. At Evening a great Multitude were here to see Simon Tainter and Mary Bruce marry’d. Thirteen Horses, 12 of which double, came with them and about a Dozen more came before them and a great number of Young Persons, So that the House was greatly fill’d with them.

1740 November 21 (Friday). Very fine pleasant Day, Such as we have not had for a long time. Neighbour Warrin finishing the Hovel. Major Keys here.340 Mr. Simeon Hayward341 here. Lieutenant Tainter cut up and salted my Pork this Evening.

1740 November 22 (Saturday). Moderate weather. Friend Dyer of Marlborough here with Mr. Smiths342 Horse, going to change him at Neighbour Hezekiah Pratts.

1740 November 23 (Sunday). Cloudy, Sometimes Misty. Sacrament Day. A great Number of North Side Members absent—notwithstanding that it was the Day according to Custom; and notwithstanding that Mr. Jenison, Mr. Wheeler, and Mr. Hayward were here in the Course of the Week and were well inform’d and could inform others. I preach’d on Heb. 13.20.21. P.M. repeated sermon 2 on Ps. 5.7.

1740 November 24 (Monday). Rainy, otherwise I should have expected a Number of Neighbours to get Wood for me. At Eve Neighbor Whipple and Eliezer Rice here.

1740 November 25 (Tuesday). Treasurer Newton343 settled with me for the south part of the Rates of last year. Visited Neighbour Barns in his Confinement and weakness. Rain.

1740 November 26 (Wednesday). Mr. Davenport (who married a Tolman) here and din’d with us. Captain Fay and Eager here. Rain.

1740 November 27 (Thursday). Very Rainy Still. Ebenezer Maynard, and Samuel Allen344 here. Reading Sir Peter King’s History of the Apostles Creed.345

1740 November 28 (Friday). Rainy day. Mr. Garfield346 of Shrewsbury here.

1740 November 29 (Saturday). Rain continues. A most unusual Season. Benjamin Forbush347 cutt wood a.m.

1740 November 30 (Sunday). The Rain is not over yet. Mat. 10.23.4.5. P.M. Repeated Sermon 3 on Ps. 89.7. Appointed a Church meeting to be tomorrow at 2 p.m.

1740 December 1 (Monday). Exceeding Rainy; The Earth fill’d with water and the Floods rais’d. No Church meeting—no Burial of widow Tomlins Child348 as was appointed.

1740 December 2 (Tuesday). A.M. I went over to the Funeral of the widow Tomlins Child, and p.m. to the Funeral of Deacon Newtons Child349 both of which dy’d of the Throat Distemper. A Third Grave was open’d this Day, Scil. for a Still born Infant of Daniel Stone. After the Funerals I went with Mr. Grout to Neighbour Beriah Rice’s to see the Cow Mr. Tainter had bought for me and afterwards to Mr. Tainters. N.B. Richard King son of King the Cutler, etc.

1740 December 3 (Wednesday). I rode over to the north side to visit Thomas Warrins Family who had been long sick of the Throat Distemper. Evening when I return’d.

1740 December 4 (Thursday). Mr. Tainter brought home Two of my Calves which he had kept a long time for me—and brought a Fat Cow from Neighbour Beriah Rice’s and with Mr. Harringtons help kill’d her. Weight 17 1/2 Score. Tallow 35, and the Hide 56. P.M. I was at old Mr. Rice’s, where the private meeting mett. I preach’d on Ps. 89.47.

1740 December 5 (Friday). Cloudy. Eve Mr. Tainter came and cutt and salted up my Beef.

1740 December 6 (Saturday). Rainy. P.M. Neighbour Benjamin Fay350 and his Wife came to discourse with me, but it was too late and I was too much engag’d in my Preparations to do them service.

1740 December 7 (Sunday). Very Stormy Day—Rain, at night Snow. High Winds. I preach’d a.m. on Mat. 10.26.27.28. P.M. on Jer. 2.19.

1740 December 8 (Monday). Very Stormy Day, and we were nigh without wood. P.M. Mr. Seth Rice351 here about his sister Thankful.352 Neighbour Aaron Forbush here and reckoned with me. They both of them fetch’d wood. At Eve Ensign Maynard and Mr. Francis Whipple here, and Mr. Hall of Sutton came and lodg’d here.

1740 December 9 (Tuesday). A bright fine pleasant Day. Mr. Hall went upon his Journey to Boston. Mr. Maynard here.

1740 December 10 (Wednesday). A very blustering Storm of Snow and Rain, and we out of wood. Ensign Maynard with his oxen came of his own accord and with young John Hicks got me two turns of wood.

1740 December 11 (Thursday). A pritty good day—but heavy, Dirty and Snowy under Foot. I rode to Marlborough and on my Way settl’d with and paid Mr. Beeman.353 Was at Mr. Feltons,354 Mr. Williams (the sadler). Din’d at Mr. Tainter’s. Visited Mrs. Lydia Barnard who was Sick at Mrs. Gates’s.355 Visited Mr. Smith and Dr. Gott, and return’d home in the Evening.

1740 December 12 (Friday). I was not well in the Forenoon having taken Cold last night.

1740 December 13 (Saturday). James Eager here to inform of the Death of Mr. Thomas Warrins eldest son.

1740 December 14 (Sunday). Cold Day, windy—but very little Wood. On Jer. 2.19. Mr. Bradish and Mr. Samuel Fay, junior din’d with us.

1740 December 15 (Monday). Mr. Bradish Sent his son Jonas to cutt Wood for me, and he got down one Turn with my Oxen, whilst I was gone to the Funeral of Mr. Thomas Warrins Son, the third of his Children that had dy’d by the Throat Distemper. At Ensign Maynards as I return’d home.

1740 December 16 (Tuesday). Bright but Cold Weather. Mr. Taylor356 of Sudbury and Lieutenant Brigham357 of Southborough here and din’d with me. Their Errand was to request me to visit Captain Nathan Brigham of Marlborough labouring under great Trouble of Mind. Matthias Rice, Mr. Townsend,358 Dr. Gott here. I visited Mr. Townsends youngest Child that was Sick.

1740 December 17 (Wednesday). A very Violent and tempestuous Storm of Snow, and we very Short of Wood. But through Gods great Mercy we are all in Health. John Hicks sent to help us in cutting up what wood we had, etc. and help tend the Cattle, and lodg’d here.

1740 December 18 (Thursday). I was according to appointment to have visited Captain Brigham and to have preach’d the Lecture in Marlborough but the drifted Snow, and the high, cold winds blowing the Snow about renders it exceeding difficult travelling. I rode with much trouble as far as Mr. Aaron Forbush and from thence to Mr. Whipples went upon Racketts and obtained Three young Men to come and cutt and sledd some wood. Ebenezer Maynard, Aaron Forbush, junior and Edward Whipple who in the Cold and Snow got down Six Load.

1740 December 19 (Friday). Cold, and difficult stirring in the Deep Snow—at the Funeral of Mrs. Townsends youngest Child. O that God would make it matter of quickening to Me, who am alas how far behind!

1740 December 20 (Saturday). Cold, cloudy, Snow’d a little. My mare very lame. Lieutenant Hezekiah Ward359 here.

1740 December 21 (Sunday). Cold Day. Difficult getting to meeting. Jer. 2.19. O that it may Convince and humble me for my forsaking God!

1740 December 22 (Monday). At Mr. Hows360 in the Morning by whom I wrote to Mr. Cooper361 of Boston. Dr. Smith,362 Master Townsend and Mr. Hezekiah Pratt here. Dr. Smith din’d with us. Set up a Bedstead in the dining room.

1740 December 23 (Tuesday). Very Cold Season.

1740 December 24 (Wednesday). Very Cold. Dr. Smith here having again been to Mr. Townsends whose Wife and eldest son Sick. I visited Mr. Townsends Family and Neighbour Barns.363 N.B. Neighbour Barns renew’d the Leave to me to cut wood in his Swamp. His Father Bruce364 and his Brother Charles there. My son Thomas not well. Receiv’d from Boston by Ensign Maynard.

1740 December 25 (Thursday). Cold. I rode to Deacon Newtons to see his Sick Children. Lieutenant Bakers,365 old Mr. Rice’s, Neighbour Daniel Forbush. Din’d at Mr. Harringtons. Visit Neighbour Grows, Thurstons,366 John Pratts, James Fayes, Grouts, Captain Fays.367 Cold Evening. Mr. Francis Whipple came to ask me to Joseph Greens Wedding, which I solemniz’d at Mr. Whipples and Supp’d there. Edward Whipple accompany’d me back.

1740 December 26 (Friday). Exceeding Cold. Cloudy a.m. Snow p.m. I rode to Captain Eagers368 and to Ensign Bartletts369 in the Storm. At Eve the Storm prevail’d much. Difficult getting Home. After I got Home the Storm was exceeding Vehement.

1740 December 27 (Saturday). My Wife had been Somewhat ill all night but in the morning was so full of Pain that I rode away to fetch Granny Forbush to her. The Snow which fell last night added to the former (both being deep) made is extraordinary difficult passing. I was overmatch’d with it at old Mr. Maynards.370 Ebenezer Maynard and Neighbour Pratt took their Horses and rode before me, by which means I succeeded. Brother Hicks carry’d up his wife, and fetch’d Mrs. How and Ensign Forbushs371 wife. Ensign Maynard brought his wife and fetch’d Mrs. Whipple. Mr. Williams also brought over his. But we were in great Want of Wood through the Disappointments which I had met with. This Ensign Maynard help’d by chopping and sledding down a Load from the Hill. A time of Remarkable Difficulty yet God was pleas’d to help us through.

1740 December 28 (Sunday). I repeated sermon on Job 14.5. The women still here a.m. At noon Mrs. Maynard and Mrs. How went Home. At Eve Mrs. Forbush (Ensigns wife) went home. My wife continuing yet about the Room. The Midwife, Mrs. Whipple, and Mrs. Williams Remain’d all night. Visited Mr. Townsends Family. Joshua very bad.

1740 December 29 (Monday). Eleazer Williams, Thomas Winchester,372 Nathan Maynard373 and Ezekiel Pratt after 11 a.m. Afterwards Lieutenant Tainter in the afternoon got wood. Captain Eager here.

1740 December 30 (Tuesday). Mr. James Fay with a Number of Hands came to get wood and brought one yoke of Oxen. The Hands with him were his Two Brethren, Robert Bradish, Jonas Child, Samuel Bumpso, Samuel Baker,374 Elijah Rice,375 Ephraim Whitney,376 Noah How, and Stephen Maynard with a Team (paid for by Mr. Fay). Joshua Townsend aged 8 Dy’d, and Mr. Beemans youngest Daughter of 5 years of age. I rode to Mr. Beemans. Eleazer exceeding bad and all the rest sick. John McClung of Pensylvania, on his Journey, came at Night.

1740 December 31 (Wednesday). John McClung left us, carrying Letters for us, to my Kinsman Benjamin Parkman377 at Philadelphia, and Mrs. Pierpont378 at New Haven. I went to the Funeral of Mr. Beemans little Daughter. His son Eleazer thought to be irrecoverable. Dr. Gotts young man, Hall, was my Company to Marlborough to Captain Nathan Brigham who was Still in a Melancholly, disconsolate Condition. I din’d late at Captain Brighams. Colonel Ward379 there at Evening. Had his Company as far as his House, where I call’d; as I did also at Mr. Jacob Amsdens,380 it being exceeding Cold. After I got home I marry’d Two Couple. Mr. Thomas Joslin381 to Lucy Forbush382 and Nathaniel Johnson383 to Sarah Forbush.384