Diary of Ebenezer Parkman, 1750

1750 January 1 (Monday). With all hearty Gratitude and praise I would magnifie the Name of God who through his Wonderful Patience and Longsuffering has Still protracted my worthless, unprofitable Life to the Commencement of yet another Year. I would Spend a little Time in Meditation on human Frailty and Mortality, and Compare the Divine Unchangeableness and Everlastingness. I would Consider the unsuitableness of immoderate Sollicitude and Anxiety about future Events in this World, but beg Grace to committ to God all that concerns me. I beg pardon through the Blood of Jesus the great Atonement of all Numberless Offences past, especially through the Course of the last Year: Entreat I may be enabled, and more quickened than ever to serve and Glorifie God in holiness, fruitfullness and faithfullness. But inasmuch as I may be call’d to some special Trials this Year (if my Life be preserv’d) in the Affair of my Remove from my present Dwelling, to be nearer to the New Meeting House, I beseech God to save me from Temptation or make a way for my Escape that I may be able to bear it! I spent the Chief of the Day retir’d, yet too brokenly.

1750 January 2 (Tuesday). Mr. Edward Goddard here in the Morning. The Society of Young Men came and Cut Wood for me, viz. Nathan Maynard, Daniel How, Jonas Bradish, Aaron Warrin by proxy scil Josiah Walker, Merodach Smith, Daniel Cook, Phinehas Maynard, Moses Warrin, Joseph Grout junior—but there was no other Team than my own which was manag’d by my son part of the Day—but it being warm and pleasant weather the Snow became at length too soft and sticky so that he left off Sledding. P.M. Sam Bumpso came to Cutt. At Evening we Sang. May God increase all grace and Goodness in them and make them all to be rich Blessings in their Generation!

1750 January 3 (Wednesday). A.M. to Southborough to Lieutenant Brighams1 to Speak with him again about the Land near the Meeting House, but he was not at home. I din’d there and then return’d home as soon as I could that I might get upon my Journey p.m. to Upton. Mr. James Bradish accompany’d me to Mr. Elijah Warrins, and Mr. Marshall Baker from thence to Captain Hazzletine’s2 where I lodg’d. But neither Mr. Hall3 nor Mr. Frost4 nor Mr. Dodge5 (who were expected) were there.

1750 January 4 (Thursday). Fast at Upton in order to Calling a Minister; and that they might be better prepar’d for that, to renew Covenant as a Church. No Minister came till afternoon to assist. Mr. Frost came in service Time, and with him Mr. Hutchinson.6 We had but one Exercise. I preach’d on Jer. 3.15 and after Mr. Frosts praying, the Church very solemnly declar’d their Consent to the Covenant (which had been before hand prepar’d and agreed upon) the men by rising up and lifting up their Hands; the women by rising up. Of men there were present, and thus transacted, Eleven: of women but Three. It was a very solemn season. I hope we had the presence of God. May He be pleas’d to pardon what was amiss, and accept the offering of his People. We sung the Close of Ps. 118. We retir’d to Captain Sadlers7 and supp’d. And at Eve the Brethren of the Church who had transacted as aforesaid, Sign’d the Covenant. N.B. Mr. Benjamin Palmers Offence with me remov’d. N.B. a Number of Separatists at Captain Sadlers, who himself did not (I think) go to meeting. I rode to Mill-River with Mr. Frost, and one Mr. Bointon. We call’d at Captain Tylers8 and Dr. Scammells.9 I lodg’d at Mr. Frosts; and Mr. Bointon kept my Horse. A Cold Night.

1750 January 5 (Friday). A very Cold Morning, but journeyed Home, calling at many Houses—Mr. David Tylers, where I din’d—Mr. Matthew Tafts, Mr. Gasketts, Mr. Chaddocks, Deacon Forbushs, and Lieutenant Taynters. Found my Tabernacle in peace. D.G.

1750 January 6 (Saturday). Snow. An Exposition on Exod. 12, from 37 is all I can prepare.

1750 January 7 (Sunday). A.M. Exposition Exod. 12 from 37. My wife and I din’d at Esq. Bakers. P.M. read Luke 12 from 22. Distinguish’d 33 and repeated Exposition on Mat. 6.19.20.21. A considerable Cold Day, but God sustains us.

1750 January 8 (Monday). A very Cold Day. Mr. Jeduthun Fay came and bought seven Sheep of me, (3 of them Lucy’s) for 12£ old Tenor and took a poor Ewe with Lamb to winter for me. Mr. Thomas Whitney was to take my Horse to keep.

1750 January 9 (Tuesday). A very tedious Cold Snow Storm. The Mercifull God have Compassion on the miserable and Distress’d! Whilst Blessed be his Name for our Comforts!

1750 January 10 (Wednesday). A Lovely Day. I rode to Mr. Elisha Wards about the Land (which he holds in Common with Lieutenant Brigham) round our New Meeting House. Cold at Eve in riding home. N.B. The Conduct of William Rogers to Day at my House would not so much do the least Neighbourly Kindness, e.g. Stand at a place to stop the Geese when we wanted to catch one but went away in a Strange Frame. I went and talk’d with his Parents and Brethren. Sent to Brother Samuel Parkman 20£ old Tenor by Nathan Maynard.

1750 January 11 (Thursday). At Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s—obtain’d of Mr. Rice to go to Mr. Stephen Fay and endeavour to trade with him for his Land on the Plain before the Meeting House. Thence I went to Deacon Newtons and reckon’d with him. N.B. Mr. Benjamin Fay there. When I came home found Lieutenant Tainter here (who was here also to see me last night, endeavouring then in vain) to speak with me about keeping some of my Cattle, and to Comfort me under my Circumstances with hopes of what may be done by the precinct for my remove.

1750 January 12 (Friday). Mr. Simon Tainter of Grafton here, but he did not take any Cattle as I expected. Mr. Ebenezer Rice makes me some Return from Neighbour Stephen Fay—that he was willing to sell the Land for £160 old Tenor. At Eve came Rev. Mr. Campbell of Oxford and lodged here.

1750 January 13 (Saturday). Rainy. Yet Mr. Campbell set out for Sutton.

1750 January 14 (Sunday). Clear’d up pritty Cold. Read and Expounded Exod. 8. Lucy and I din’d at Esq. Bakers. Molly dines at Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s. P.M. read Luke 13 and preach’d on Exod. 13 Two last verses. Manning,10 a junior Sophister, who keeps School at Mr. Daniel Warrins, Supp’d and Lodg’d here, at Ebenezers Invitation.

1750 January 15 (Monday). A Remarkable Day! The Parish came together at the Meeting House to consider and provide for my Remove from my present Dwelling. N.B. Lieutenant Tainter here. Captain Maynard (came at my Desire). I ask’d him (as I have of late Several Times) to sell his Land nigh the Meeting House but he refuses—is very much out of Humour, to my Grief, as he has been a worthy neighbour; and I fear he will be very much incapacitated by this Ruffle, to receive any good. I sent a Paper to the Precinct by Lieutenant Tainter. Though it was a Cold Day I rode over to Deacon Newtons. At Eve came in (to Deacon Newtons) Mr. Ebenezer Rice and inform’d me (agreeable to my Desire) that Neighbour Stephen Fay would be at my House tomorrow to finish the Bargain about the Land aforesaid, and afterwards came in the Deacon, Esq. Baker and Lieutenant Tainter. They inform’d me that the people at their meeting made no Vote upon my Affair. But all Things relating to my Remove are left in Confusions, their Minds being very much Divided. Many persons were for granting no more than 500£ naked and according to the present Value, nor would they vote that to be put into a Rate without I would manifest myself contented with it. We had a great Deal of Discourse at the Deacons upon what had pass’d in the Day—and the Tendency of those Things.11 N.B. talk’d with the Deacon alone concerning the Paper which a Committee (of which he was one) prepar’d us a message from the precinct to me in answer etc. but though it was not voted yet doth said paper lye among the papers of the precinct to my great Disadvantage and Reproach. I therefore desir’d the Deacon to take Care that it be destroy’d; or else let me have the Benefit of putting in a Reply to lye along with it. My Wife and several Children much indispos’d.

1750 January 16 (Tuesday). Mr. Stephen Fay came here and brought his Plotts that I might make the writings respecting the Land I have propos’d to buy of him, provided we can agree upon the Terms. He din’d here. But Mr. Fay loaded our Bargain with Demands which Mr. Rice had never told me of, viz. that I must throw up my Expectation of the Condition of his possessing the Three Acres which were laid out to me, but which now he obliges me to buy at So dear a Rate of him, which Condition was, that he should make over Right to me to take up Three Acres of Common Land instead of it: Yet even this I conceded to [in] hopes to make the Bargain easier in other respects, scil. respecting the Money and Time of payment. We made several proposals, but finally I agreed to go to drawing the Instruments against Tomorrow p.m. leaving a Space to insert that of the Terms he propos’d to my Choice, which I should like best. And thus he left me. One of the ways or kinds of Terms he had left me was, that I should give Such a Bond as those had give who had lately been buying of him, Such as Esq. Baker etc. Nigh Evening I rode to Esq. Baker to Consult him about those Bonds. In Conversation with him he gave such Account of the Temper of the Precinct Yesterday, and the little prospect of its being better—that, considering this and therewith the Difficulty about the Payment, I hearken’d to the Esquire’s Council not to Engage, if I could fairly desist; and defer it a little while, till I should be able to see what would come out of my Circumstances among this People. I first appriz’d Mr. Rice of it, and then went to Mr. Fay. I acquainted him that since he left me I had met with what had much mov’d me to come, and desire him to wave the Bargain for a while, or, as the Case now Stood with me with Regard to the Parish and as there was so much difficulty in knowing what could be just and safe in the Payment in so very Critical a juncture, I must desire him to throw it up. He told me he had as lieve as not—Upon which it was all dissolv’d and the Whole Affair fell to the Ground. Hear that Dr. Breck12 is very ill.

1750 January 17 (Wednesday). At Eve Master Manning brought me a Letter from Mrs. Pierpoint13 of New-Haven. Several Children yet indispos’d, but my wife is about again.

1750 January 18 (Thursday). A Cool Day, but I was oblig’d to go and look after my Horse at Thomas Whitneys. My wife and I took the Opportunity in my Chair upon Runners, to visit several Familys Mr. Grouts, Jonathan Fays, his uncle Benjamin Fays.

1750 January 19 (Friday). Rugged Weather. Mr. Josiah Jones14 of Stockbridge here.

1750 January 20 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1750 January 21 (Sunday). We rode in the Chair upon runners—a Cool Day yet the sun shin’d. Fewer at Meeting than usual a.m. More p.m. A.M. read Exod. 14.1–20. Gave an Exposition. My wife din’d with me at the Justice’s. Lucy at Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s, Billy at Mr. Abner Newtons. At noon receiv’d a Letter from sister Breck of Worcester of the Doctors illness. P.M. read Luke 14, and for a Sermon repeated the Exposition on Mat. 6.21, and Luke 12.34.

1750 January 22 (Monday). My Wife and I rode to Worcester to See Brother Breck. Find him Somewhat better. Din’d there. P.M. at Mr. Maccartys.15 He rode with me to See Mr. Joshua Biglo whose House and Two Children were burnt last Saturday morning: at which he and his wife were much Scorch’d and confin’d to their Beds.16 At their request I pray’d with them. At Eve Mr. Maccarty and I were at Colonel Chandlers but he was from home. My Wife Sat up watching with her Brother. I lodg’d at Mr. Maccartys.

1750 January 23 (Tuesday). Brother Breck is considerably reviv’d and in a much more hopefull way. I din’d at Colonel Chandlers, and Mr. Maccarty and his wife likewise. N.B. the Colonel much disappointed that my wife did not come: Whereas her Brother was so fond of her Company that he would by no means consent to it. P.M. we return’d home. N.B. Call’d at Mr. Cushings17 and at Lieutenant Eagers18 both going and coming.

1750 January 24 (Wednesday). Mr. Jacob Rice, Constable for the north part of the Town here, and Saluted me in a perfectly New Manner, viz. with my son Ebenezers Rates—to the Province Tax, viz. £3.4.4. I have Daily new Hints of the Great Disquietments in this Parish by means of the Affair of my Remove. But God grant me the Patience and Wisdom necessary for me! My Wife much indispos’d and taken off.

1750 January 25 (Thursday). Mrs. Tainter and Daniel Hastings din’d here. P.M. Captain Maynard brought me a sorrowfull Letter from my Eldest Brother of the Dangerous Condition of my sister Willard19 is in, and that if I would see her alive I must hasten down. Deacon Forbush here to talk with me about the uneasiness in the Minds of people touching the Charge of my Remove. I walk’d with the Deacon, went as far as Mr. Pratts and got him to go for my Horse, who accordingly brought him from Mr. Jonathan Fay’s. N.B. Word Sent by Mrs. Tainter to Mary Woodwell not to come to live here.

1750 January 26 (Friday). Set out Early for Boston. Call’d at Mr. Tim Warrins where was Lieutenant Tainter with money for me. I left a Line in his Hands directed to one of the Committee of the Precinct touching the Business of next Wednesday. Call’d at Mr. Stones20 at Southborough—at Mr. Livermores21 at Weston—at Captain Tainters22 and Mr. Dix’s23 at Watertown. Put up my Horse at Mr. Blakes in Boston where Mr. Whipple lodg’d; and thence I hasten’d to my Sister who was as yet alive though very ill of a pleuratic Disorder and peripneumony.24 She was also much distress’d in her Mind, and under apprehension that Death can not be far off. Brother William has been ill, but is recovering. D.G. Lodg’d at Dr. Parkmans. N.B. Mr. Taylor25 of Milton dy’d this Morning! Molly went over to Mr. Palatiah Rice’s and brought Martha Pannell to live with us.

1750 January 27 (Saturday). Visited my Sister, who remains in much the Same distress’d Condition as last Night. Din’d at Brother Samuels and Mr. Whipple with me, who took Care of my Horse till Monday when he is to ride him Home. With my dear Sister at Eve who is Still in great Distress and grows weaker. Yet She entertains an Hope in God through Christ which is as an Anchor fasten’d etc. And were it not for her burthen’d Mind, could bear the anguishes of her Body, even though she despairs of continuing in this World. Thinks She shall never See another Sabbath after this which (I intimated to her) is now begun—(But I keep my reckoning of Time here, after a Roman Manner). Lodg’d at the Doctors again.

1750 January 28 (Sunday). Visited my Sister in the Morning. She told me She had had an horrible Night. Complain’d of the Vilest Things entering into her Mind which She Seem’d to be full of Indignation at. She desir’d Prayers at both Meeting Houses. I wrote Several Notes. Attended at the New North. Sat in Brother Samuels Pew, where was Mr. Whipple also. Mr. Eliot26 preach’d on John 15. Of the Spiritual Union to Jesus Christ. In Sermon Time Mrs. Kelland came under the Window and gave us to understand we must return to my Sister. Brother Samuel and I went accordingly. Sister was Still breathing, but, not Sensible. We commended her to God by Prayer. She expir’d just as we finish’d, About 1/2 past 11 a.m. and hope She Sleeps in Jesus. One of the most affectionate of Women. May God of his infinite Mercy grant this Providence mayn’t go over without Special Benefit to my own Soul! I had determin’d not to preach to Day: but Mr. Webb27 sent his Son with So urgent a Letter that I went to him and din’d with him. He was So ill that I thought it my Duty to comply—for that weeping ought not to hinder Sowing. I preach’d therefore as I was able p.m. on Gal. 2.20. At Eve at Brother Parkman’s, our remaining kindred being together and Some few Friends, (Colonel Cotton,28 Mr. Thomas Stoddard,29 etc.) I delivered an Exercise on John 12.35. Lodg’d at the Doctors.

1750 January 29 (Monday). In the Morning early walk’d up to Mr. Blakes to Send another Letter per Mr. Whipple to my wife, but he was gone. I took Cold by walking in the wet Streets—din’d at Mr. Cowels30—felt but poorly, yet visited divers Friends—Elder Cheever31 etc. Lodg’d at Brother Parkman’s. N.B. I remember the wormwood and the gall of this Day, 14 Years since.

1750 January 30 (Tuesday). Walk’d out—but was much indispos’d—went as far as Mrs. Negus’s and din’d with her. At Eve among divers Friends—Mr. Thomas Stoddard very kind—daily visited the Corps of my dear Sister. Lodg’d as last Night.

1750 January 31 (Wednesday). Din’d at Mr. Stoddards—a.m. much better than I was—may God Sanctify his holy Hand upon Me! ‘tis heavy work now before me. Attended the Funeral of my dear and only Sister. My Brother Samuel led Sarah Tyley and I led sister Rebecca. Brother Parkman was confin’d. The Bearers were Deacon Larrabee, Messrs. Leazonby, Stoddard, Grant, Greenough and Bradford. Brother Samuel and I went to Brother Parkmans and Spent the Evening together—in Conversation according to the season. May God prepare me for my Turn! Lodg’d at the Doctors.

1750 February 1 (Thursday). Foul Weather, but I went to the Public Lecture Mr. Checkley of the old North preach’d on Ps. 40.1.2.3. May God forgive my wanderings and bless it to my souls profit! Din’d at Brother Samuels. P.M. I visited the Honourable Thomas Hubbard.32 Mr. Eliot there. Mr. Hubbard (I think) had been himself at the Funeral of our dear Friend and Class-mate Mr. Taylor of Milton, Yesterday, whose Death is much lamented. I heard of the Funeral seasonably but could not attend it, having the like work to do, where I was yet more nearly concern’d. May all have a proper Effect upon my poor insensible Heart! Visited Dr. Sewall33 and Mr. Prince.34 When I return’d at Evening to my Brother Samuels Mr. Cook of Westborough had been there with my Horse, and a Letter from my dear Spouse at Home, which inform’d of my son Thomas ill at Concord. My Horse was kept at Mr. Thomas Stoddards Stable; but Mr. Cook brought both Hay and Provinder for him. I lodg’d at Brother Samuels.

1750 February 2 (Friday). Undertook my Journey from Boston about 10 a.m. Din’d at Brother Champney’s at Cambridge. Call’d at Mr. Stephen Prentice’s35 who was confin’d to his Chamber; and at Mr. Hancocks36 at Lexington, but he was not at home. The old Lady receiv’d and entertain’d me kindly. At Concord at the first of Evening. My son had been much indispos’d, and weaken’d by Vomiting, bleeding at the Nose, and purging—but was Somewhat better, through Gods Goodness. Mr. Minot37 at Mr. Goolds. Visited the Colonel. Lodg’d at Mr. Bliss’s38 who also kept my Horse.

1750 February 3 (Saturday). After a Visit to my son, I Set out again on my Journey home. Din’d at Mr. Smiths39 at Marlborough. Found my Family well—Blessed by God!

1750 February 4 (Sunday). Read Exod. 14.21 to the End. Preach’d a.m. and p.m. on Tit. 2.13. N.B. was mov’d exceedingly p.m. May God grant it may be abiding on my own Spirits, and have a Suitable influence upon all the Audience! P.M. read Luke 15. My wife and I din’d at Justice Bakers—Molly at Lieutenant Tainters, William at Mr. Williams’s. Ebenezer and Martha Pannell came home. At Eve, Master Manning at Supper, and into the Evening. Snow Storm in the Night or

1750 February 5 (Monday). Morning. Ebenezer return’d my Horse to Mr. Jonathan Fays to be kept there again. Mr. Whitney came to discourse with me about the precinct Affair. N.B. they adjourn’d their late meeting to February 13 as I am inform’d. Mr. Whitney seems much dispos’d for Peace, while others, it seems, are in Ruffle especially Some in the South East Corner. The Weather clears up very Cold, and it grows a distressing Time among people, respecting their Cattle; Hay being So very Short, there is reason for much Concern,—but must Confide in God.

1750 February 6 (Tuesday). I visited Mr. Martyn40—found him confin’d by his taking Physic. Din’d with Mrs. Martyn—return’d before sunsett. Mr. Francis Whipple and his wife made us a Visit. Master Manning at Eve and lodg’d here. N.B. he finish’d school keeping.

1750 February 7 (Wednesday). Ebenezer in the slay to Concord for Thomas. Cold morning moderate p.m.

1750 February 8 (Thursday). Thomas brought home by his Brother. Drisly Weather p.m. At Eve Mr. Daniel Hardy here and pays me more money. Old Mr. Whipple and his wife make us a long visit and Sup with us.

1750 February 9 (Friday). Lieutenant Tainter here to acquaint me that the Precinct had adjourn’d their late meeting to Tuesday the 13th of the Month. He beseeches me to remember the old Mens Council to Rehoboam, and Speak kindly to this people etc. At Eve Colonel Ward here, for whom I had transcrib’d the papers of the late Council at Shrewsbury, for which he oblig’d me to take a 20/ Bill, though I once and again refus’d to receive any Thing. N.B. I received a Letter from Mr. Stone of Southborough giving me his advice about the 500£ vote of this precinct, and what I had best intimate to them.

1750 February 10 (Saturday). My Son Thomas is Somewhat better I hope—but seems dull and inactive yet.

1750 February 11 (Sunday). Read Exod. 15, beginning, but not having as yet given the Exposition of the Close of Chapter 14, which exhibits the Ground and Occasion of that famous song, I made that the Exercise for the Forenoon instead of a Sermon. My wife and I din’d at Justice Bakers. P.M. read Luke 16. Preach’d on Numb. 23.10.41 Occasion’d by the Death both of my dear Sister Willard and old Mr. Thomas Knowlton a very godly and worthy man, whose Decease, though he was very aged and infirm is greatly to be lamented; and we have much reason to wish our Death and last End might be like his. My son Thomas at meeting p.m.

1750 February 12 (Monday). Visited Mr. Abner Newton, who has relaps’d. P.M. wrote a Line to Mr. Stone in reply to his of the 5th instant, by one Barton. At Eve Ebenezer taken very ill, Shaking and great pain in his Side follow’d with Fever and Thirst. N.B. he had winnow’d some Quantity of Indian Corn in the Day and very probably took Cold by it.

1750 February 13 (Tuesday). Ebenezer So ill that I sent for Mr. Stephen Maynard to go for Dr. Gott,42 who accordingly went for him. While my Neighbour was gone the Pain in Ebenezers Side was very extreme. The Doctor himself came not, but his young man Frink,43 who blooded my Son. He was Somewhat easier and I walk’d over to the Meeting about my Affairs. The Moderator Sent for me desiring that I would go in to the Meeting. I went in accordingly. Utter’d my Mind to the precinct by word of Mouth: the Substance of what was Said I have writ out. Retir’d to Mr. Abner Newtons. A Committee came to me there, viz. Messrs. Phinehas Hardy, Eliezer Rice, and Jonas Brigham; their Errand was to know whether I had ever accepted the Precincts Votes of February 5 and 8, 1744/5? I Sent word “that I always look’d upon myself as having accepted them.” This I wrote and Sent by them, and added by word of mouth (which I desir’d ‘em to take notice of) that the particular manner in which I accepted, has been exhibited partly in my paper of February 8, 1744/5 (which the precinct had and read that Day) and partly in a paper which was my design’d, and full answer, which always lay ready for them.

1750 February 14 (Wednesday). As to Ebenezer, the pains are moderated, but he has a Strong Fever. Dr. Gott came and blooded him. Storm of Snow. Captain Maynard came to See us in our Affliction. At Eve Ebenezer very restless; has been all along very Thirsty: and his Case throws us into much Concern.

1750 February 15 (Thursday). We watch with Ebenezer ourselves; One setting up the fore-part, another the latter part of the Night. In the Morning he Seem’d to be Somewhat Comfortable, but it was not long before he grew worse. Neighbour Eliezer Rice came kindly to see us: went home and return’d again to cutt Loggs at the Door. But Ebenezer grew so bad, and at Times Somewhat Delirious that I Sent Mr. Rice to Dr. Gott; who came up with him p.m. My son is much distress’d about the State of his Soul. At his Special Request I pray’d with him. N.B. Mr. Pratt kindly Sent Cornelius Cook to cutt wood at the Door. At Eve Deacon Newton, Lieutenant Tainter, and Mr. Francis Whipple came as a Committee (they were the Majority thereof, Captain Baker and Lieutenant Thomas Forbush being the other two that came not) to inform me of Two Things from the Precinct, one which had pass’d into a Certainty: if I would accept of it: namely that this Precinct had voted that the grant of 500£ old Tenor made in the Year 1744/5 Should be put into a Rate, to be gather’d and paid me. The other Thing was not Voted, but much talk’d of, and they (the Committee) were desir’d by a great many to propose it to me, namely, whether I would rather choose to tarry where I am, if the precinct will give me an hundred pounds old Tenor per Annum more of Sallery? N.B. They acquainted me that what was voted, as above, was with freeness and Love. I desir’d Time to consider of what they had said. They each of them for their own particular parts gave me their Advice that I would take up with it cheerfully for they had reason to hope that many people would fall in and generously assist. N.B. Martha Pannells Brother Moses Pannell and her Cousen Abraham Black here to see Martha, but by reason of the Trouble in my House they lodg’d at Captain Maynards. I Sat up till between 2 and 3 o’Clock with Ebenezer who is very ill.

1750 February 16 (Friday). Sent for the Two Young Men aforesaid who were at Breakfast with me. Very Cold Day, yet Neighbour Jonathan Rogers is moving his wife and Children to Day, up to Mr. Lulls at Ware River. Ebenezer very ill yet. Thomas, through divine Goodness, able to tend the Cattle, But is not free of pain and Indisposition. At Eve came Forbush and afterwards Benjamin Tainter,44 and they by turns watch’d with Ebenezer. The Weather very Extreme.

1750 February 17 (Saturday). Ebenezer more Shatter’d and delirious when he wakes up; his Fever somewhat off in the morning but returns very Strong at about 10 a.m. as it did also yesterday. The morning exceeding Cold, So that the Doctor did not come: Sent Master Frink who tells me the Doctor judges it will go hard with my son. The Troubles of my Heart are greatly enlarg’d: O that God would bring me out of my Distresses! My Neighbours kind and ready to assist us. Neighbour Eliezer Williams came p.m. to help us about wood, as Benjamin Tainter assisted a.m. Joshua Winchester came at Night.

1750 February 18 (Sunday). Joshua Winchester having watch’d acquaints us that Ebenezer though very bad in the fore part of the Night, yet slept considerably well the latter, and Seems better this morning. The Glory be to God, who seems to appear for his Help. Dr. Gott came before Meeting. Says he sees no Dangerous Symptoms but hopes there is an imperfect Crisis: only he does not know what to say of his Spitting bloody matter. I went to Meeting—read Exod. 15 and gave some Exposition. Preach’d on Numb. 23.10. Rode home at noon. Martha Pannell din’d at Captain Bakers but the rest of my Family at Home. Ebenezer’s Fit does not come on as fear’d. P.M. Read Luke 17. Said a few Things Extemporaneously on it. Preach’d on Heb. 4.7, improving Some part of Sermon on John 6.12, Scil. from page 6 to 18. At Eve Forbush, but return’d (to his uncle Holloways).

1750 February 19 (Monday). Aaron Warrin watch’d last Night with Ebenezer who we hope is through Gods great Mercy a little better. Neighbours Edwards Whipple and Eleazer Williams came and kindly sledded wood. It was the more kind and seasonable as it proved a considerable stormy Time p.m. yet they were not beat off, but got to the Door 10 Turns, the wood being already Cut to their Hands. They din’d with us, as did Mr. Stone of Southborough who kindly came to see us. The Snow prevail’d pritty much towards Eve. It put us in Mind of the Great Snow storm which came this Day 33 Years agoe. Ebenezer Spitts bloody matter to a greater Degree. My Son William taken ill, having took Cold Yesterday (most probably) in coming from Meeting. Mr. Daniel Hardy, Collector for the last Year, paid me the last of what he was to gather for my Sallery and support for the Year past.

1750 February 20 (Tuesday). Was Somewhat concern’d about Ebenezers spitting Blood, but this Morning it disappears. Abraham Batchellor had watch’d. Billy seems better in the first of the Morning, but afterwards droops again. Dr. Gott here. He gives Billy a Purge. Lucy complains and is laid by. P.M. Mr. Martyn and his Wife came to see us in our Affliction. He pray’d with us. We have much Reason for Serious Reflection. In this Day of Adversity we Should Consider. May God grant us the Grace needed!

1750 February 21 (Wednesday). Ebenezer considerably better—blessed be God! Lucy much indispos’d Still, but Billy is at his Lessons again. Captain Maynard and Deacon Forbush here. P.M. Lieutenant Tainter he informs me that he finds he shall be very short of Hay and must get some other place for my Two Heifers which he has in keeping. Thomas trims apple Trees etc.

1750 February 22 (Thursday). Rode to Southborough—at Mr. Johnsons to Buy Corn for my Horse at Mr. Fays. Din’d at Mr. Stones. N.B. Mr. Thomas How and his despairing Wife there. Rode to Marlborough. Deacon Tainters,45 Dr. Gotts (for Bitters for Ebenezer) at Mr. Smiths, Colonel Williams’s.46 Heard of the Death of Moses How of Rutland esq., a Gentleman I was well acquainted with.

1750 February 23 (Friday). Justice Baker here to see us in our Affliction, but my Children are through Mercy better. Thomas had a Ratteen Banyan made by Mrs. Lucy Bowker. Mr. Samuel Fay junior brought me an English Cheese from Boston.

1750 February 24 (Saturday). Very fine Spring like weather for several Days.

1750 February 25 (Sunday). Great Rains a.m. and the Roads being exceeding Hollow I did not go to Meeting—but perform’d divers Exercises in my own Family. Neighbour Noah How came and join’d with us. He din’d with us. Deacon Forbush came from the Meeting House at noon, the Rain slacking. I went to meeting p.m. Read Luke 18, preach’d on Numb. 23.10 and may God grant us both to live the Lives and die the Deaths of the Righteous!

1750 February 26 (Monday). Letter from Rev. Mr. Maccarty containing a Request in behalf of Mr. Joshua Biglo for a Contribution here. Mr. Hutchinson who preach’d at Southborough Yesterday, din’d here. P.M. Mr. Stone to Esq. Baker, as Answer to the Committee who were lately with me to acquaint me with what the precinct had voted about the 500£ being put into a Rate. Lieutenant Holloway came to see Ebenezer. He informs me that David Willson has elop’d.

1750 February 27 (Tuesday). I was at Esq. Bakers and Ebenezer Rice’s. I call’d there a.m. At Mr. Martyns p.m. to desire him to preach my Lecture. My wife at Mr. John Chamberlins. Brother Hicks here.

1750 February 28 (Wednesday). Thomas return’d to Mr. Goolds at Concord. P.M. my wife and I made a Visit to Mr. Abner Newton who is in a Languishing Condition. N.B. He put into my Hand a 20 shilling Bill New Tenor. I took the more Notice of this because of the State of my Mind to Day: Reflecting on the Trials I meet with in this Parish about my Remove, I nevertheless did in some Measure acquiesce in the will of God as being wisest and best.

1750 March 1 (Thursday). Fine Day. Mr. Cushing here and wants Advice in their Troubles which increase rather than diminish. Mr. Isaac Stones47 uneasiness So great that he moves for a Dismission and Colonel Ward48 is not far from asking the Same. Mr. Martyn here likewise. The both din’d here. The Latter preach’d my Lecture. Text Eccl. 1.2. They went from Meeting, to Southborough.

1750 March 2 (Friday). Though yesterday and for several Days, it had look’d like Spring, yet this Morning has a winter Face again. Brother Hicks49 din’d here.

1750 March 3 (Saturday). Ebenezer So far recover’d that today he came out of his Room and din’d with us. Blessed be God for this Token of His Goodness!

1750 March 4 (Sunday). A.M. read Exod. 16. Exposition with Application to the Occasion of the Communion which was administer’d today. I din’d at Justice Bakers. My Wife and Daughter Molly tarry’d at the Meeting House. P.M. on Eph. 1.3. Have but two low and dull sense of these great Things. O that God might raise and quicken me by his almighty Grace and Spirit!

1750 March 5 (Monday). Having appointed the Catechizing to Day at the School House on the South part of the Town I rode over to attend upon it. At Deacon Newtons Desire I din’d at his House. N.B. had no message from the Town meeting about my Prayer with them. Know not whether there was any at all. At Catechizing about 45 Children. Mr. Ezekiel Dodge here at Eve. He lodg’d here. N.B. his Call at Abington.

1750 March 6 (Tuesday). Rode with Mr. Dodge to his uncle Joseph Knowltons, and din’d there. Proceeded to see his aged grandmother, and uncles Abraham and Ezekiel. At Eve in returning I call’d at Mr. Francis Whipples. N.B. his Discovering to me the Temper and Proceedings of the late precinct Meeting about my Removal and their Endeavours to have the Grant of 500£ loaded with new and hard Conditions before they would vote to enter it into a Rate. He also discover’d to me that he had in his Hands my Paper of March 3, 1745/6 which was my Answer to the Precincts renewed Call—which had it been seen or remember’d at the Time of the late meetings about my Affairs would have prevented much Trouble. Mr. Daniel Hardy riving out Posts for me.

1750 March 7 (Wednesday). Rode to Mr. Ebenezer Chamberlins etc. Visited a sick Child of Mr. Joslyns.

1750 March 8 (Thursday). My Wife and I rode to Mr. Martyns Lecture. Mr. Eliezer Rice favour’d me with his Mare. Din’d there. Mr. Smith there also—but Mr. Cushing preach’d on John 6.26. At our Return Esq. Baker took Mr. Rice’s Horse to deliver him to his Master. N.B. Lucy at Mr. John Chamberlins while her Husband is gone to Boston.

1750 March 9 (Friday). Raw Cold. Several Cold Nights of late. Mr. Chamberlin return’d last night from Boston. N.B. he paid 6£ old Tenor to Mr. S. Procter for Cheese for me—also 14 shillings for Chocolat and 6 shillings for Rice.

1750 March 10 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1750 March 11 (Sunday). Read and briefly expounded Exod. 17. Preach’d on Eph. 1.3, a. and p.m. My Wife and I din’d at Justice Bakers, where was also Mr. John Nichols of Boston. P.M. read Luke 19 from number 28.

1750 March 12 (Monday). Rode to Mr. Elisha Wards and to Lieutenant Brighams. Lieutenant Tainter with me, endeavouring to trade with owners of the Land round about the Meeting House. I din’d there. P.M. rode up to our Meeting House the Precinct being met there for the choice of Officers, and I desir’d to know their minds respecting Two Requests I had Receiv’d—one from Revd. Mr. Maccarty in behalf of Mr. Joshua Biglo in Worcester whose House was burnt, and another from Revd. Mr. Stone in behalf of the widow Richards of Southborough, who was lately burnt out also.50 The Moderater desir’d me to go in. I comply’d, but tarry’d not long. They voted there Should be a Contribution for the Widow. N.B. Captain Maynard and I renewed Bounds near the Burying place. N.B. Mr. Whipple had from me Three papers of mine which had been heretofore put into the Precincts Book. Cold, Raw, Searching Air. Mr. Jeduthan Fay took my Oxen to keep.

1750 March 13 (Tuesday). By Agreement Lieutenant Brigham and I met on the Land by the Meeting House, and look’d up the Bounds of his Land there; and we pitch’d upon a Time to draw the Writings.

1750 March 14 (Wednesday). Sent to my son Thomas by Charles Miles of Concord. Deacon Miles51 of Shrewsbury here at Eve, by whom had return from Boston of Messages to Brother Samuel Parkman and Mrs. Stoddard.

1750 March 15 (Thursday). Public Fast. Preach’d on Jer. 5 from number 20 to 25 and read number 29 a. and p.m. P.M. I improv’d some Heads in sermon on Isa. 33.14, viz. from page 5 to 14. Sometimes only here and there a Sentence, as particularly from page 9 to 12. My Wife and Lucy walk’d to meeting; Molly rode with me on the Mare. It prov’d very Cold: at length snow’d. I went to Deacon Newtons at Noon. My wife, Molly and Lucy stay’d at the Meeting House, because of the storm. After Meeting the storm being exceeding Strong, the Snow beating very vehemently, my wife rode home with me, Esq. Baker kindly Sent a Son with an Horse to help Molly home, and Mr. Eliezer Rice kindly help’d Lucy home, So that we got home in Some Comfort to what it would have otherwise been, but I think it was more tedious than any Sabbath through the Winter. May God be pleas’d to forgive our Defects bless his holy word; hear our Supplications and be reconcil’d to us! N.B. I was not only oblig’d to undergo such a storm after preaching, but to look after my Creatures at the Barn. My Health has been much expos’d to Day.

1750 March 16 (Friday). Indispos’d, dull and unactive—having been so expos’d to the storm yesterday—Ebenezer so feeble, tender and confin’d yet that he can’t go to the Barn in any rugged Weather.

1750 March 17 (Saturday). Bright pleasant Morning. Brother Hicks at Eve from Cambridge. Lodg’d here.

1750 March 18 (Sunday). Rugged Morning. I rode over to the North Precinct. Sent my Mare back from the Country Road by Joel Rice.52 I read (at Mr. Martyns meeting) Exod. 31, and preach’d on Ps. 17.15 first part, carrying on my Discourse on the Happiness of Heaven begun heretofore on Mat. 25.46 latter part. It prov’d a rainy Day. P.M. I read Luke 16. Preach’d on John 12.26, managing another Head of the same subject. Contribution in that assembly for Mr. Joshua Biglow of Worcester, amounted to about 13£ old Tenor. Mr. Martyn preach’d for me on 2 Tim. 3.5. He and his wife din’d at Justice Bakers. N.B. he did not read in public, a. or p.m. Contribution in the South parish was for the Widow Richards in Southborough, and amounted to [blank]. N.B. It was so rainy, and having no Horse, I lodg’d at Mr. Martyns, who return’d home at Eve. N.B. Brother Hicks at our House.

1750 March 19 (Monday). Stormy morning. Yet I return’d home; a little way on Mr. Martyns Horse, and meeting Billy on my own mare coming for me Chang’d Horses. Brother Hicks went away this morning. N.B. Lieutenant Bruce53 here he being about buying Mr. Cornelius Cooks54 place, and offers it to me for the Same.

1750 March 20 (Tuesday). Storm of Snow so great that considering the great Straits of many people for Hay, it is very sorrowfull and distressing. Deacon Newton here in the Morning and brought the Contribution of our Parish for the Widow Richards—it amounted to £13.16.10, but very few large Bills—only 1 20/ Bill in the whole—one 14/—and but a few 10’s. 2£ 16/ of Hampshire. £2.13.6 Rhode Island, of which a considerable number were of the condemned Bills. It grieves me much. Yet I am glad they did anything Since we are at this Day so many ways burden’d. The Lord accept our offering! but if any have knowingly offerred to the Lord a Corrupt Thing, the Lord be pleased to detect it to their Consciences, give ‘em the Grace to repent of it, and in great Mercy forgive it!

1750 March 21 (Wednesday). Storm continues Still. Mr. Jeduthun Fay return’ed my Oxen home. Was at Merchant Rice’s and paid all, clearing myself and my Children wholly of all other-Government Money. P.M. Mr. Ithamar Bellows here to acquaint me with the Death of Mr. Josslins Daughter Patience. Before Night the weather clear. N.B. Neighbour Ebenezer Maynard digging a Cellar in order to build a new House on the Land which was heretofore Brother Hicks’s.

1750 March 22 (Thursday). Bekky Warrin55 here to See us with her Babe, and lodg’d here last night.

1750 March 23 (Friday). My Wife rode with me to the Funeral of Mr. Joslins Daughter Patience. After the burying, and the people gone off, my wife and I Spent a little Time in viewing the Land round the Burying Place, and meeting House, that we look up a place to build on; but all seem’d to me so barren and undesirable, that I can have little Encouragement. But I desire to repose my Self in God. N.B. Ebenezer waited on Cousen Bekky with her Babe, to her Father Warrins.

1750 March 24 (Saturday). Rain. Thunder. The Earth very full of Rain.

1750 March 25 (Sunday). So rainy Night, and in early Morn, I was so indispos’d I was not determin’d to go to meeting: but I was afterwards better, and the weather Clear’d; so that I went to Meeting; but having only one Horse but few of us got to meeting. I carry’d Lucy and Ebenezer, and William went on Foot; all the Rest tarried at home a.m. N.B. Public Thanks for God’s great Goodness in restoring my son: this being the first of his going to meeting since his sickness. I read Exod. 18, with some considerable of Exposition and Observations. Preach’d about an hour on Jer. 5.20.25.29, and did not break off till about half after Twelve—but ask’d their pardon for detaining them so long. Din’d at Justice Bakers. Rode before his wife to Meeting. P.M. read Luke 20, and since I chose rather to deliver all my Preparations in one Exercise than to divide it; and Because of the Paragraph in the Reading of our Lords Answering the Pharisees concerning the Resurrection, I therefore took the latter part of my Exercise on the Resurrection, and repeated instead of a Sermon or Exposition. After the services I gave a Warning to such of the Congregation as in the late Contribution put in Bills of poor Credit. But as the forenoon Sermon was very moving, May God be pleas’d to impress all our souls deeply with what was then deliver’d!

1750 March 26 (Monday). Grass begins to Spring. Mr. Buckminster56 of Rutland here. Their Divisions, especially Captain Rice57 and Deacon Ball’s58 Still continue.

1750 March 27 (Tuesday). Great Rain. Lieutenant Tainter with us.

1750 March 28 (Wednesday). Was at Captain Maynards—his Discourse gave Some Trouble, as he endeavour’d to blacken the Characters of Several principal persons in the parish, and perswade me that there was some Number of persons who do not desire my Continuance here. Gave me very Strong Caution and warning not by any means to depend upon or Expect one farthing more of the Parish towards my Remove than the Naked 500£. Besides this there was much more of the same Nature. N.B. Captain had been out after his Brother James’s Son John who was suppos’d to be run away.

1750 March 29 (Thursday). Ebenezer got 600 of Hay at Ensign Rice’s, a.m. N.B. Captain Maynard help’d him get it home. P.M. Lecture to young Society from Ps. 63.8, repeated with many Alterations and Additions. May God humble and quicken us all! At Eve Lieutenant Bruce here again, to let me know he had now got a Deed of Mr. Cornelius Cooks place, and offers it or any part of it to Me, at the Same rate that he bought it of Mr. Cook.

1750 March 30 (Friday). Ebenezer So weak yet, and indispos’d that he can’t bear Work. Being a Warmish Pleasant Day, we are invited to gardening. Patty Pannell does what she can in making Beds and Sewing some early Seeds. My Mind is greatly fill’d with a Variety of heavy, perplexing Cares and Troubles. I endeavour in Some Measure to committ myself to God and repose myself in His Graciousness and Faithfullness.

1750 March 31 (Saturday). Mr. Thomas Stoddard of Boston came up to See us. Though I was glad to See him yet I was Sorry it happen’d to be at Such a Season of Engagement in My Preparations, it proving very much of an Interruption to me.

1750 April 1 (Sunday). A.M. on Exod. 19. I din’d at Justice Bakers. Mr. Stoddard din’d with my Wife at Home. P.M. I read Luke 21, and gave brief Exposition of my Hints. Preach’d on Ps. 26.9, former part, and use of Sermon on Isa. 33.14 from page 29 to 47 omitting from page 37 to page 40 near the bottom, and omitting from page 42 to middle of page 46.

1750 April 2 (Monday). I waited on Mr. Stoddard to Captain Mayards, and rode with him as far as Lieutenant Brighams—returned home to Dinner. N.B. Two Foot Travellers from Medfield brought the sorrowfull Tidings of the Death of my dear Friend the Reverend Mr. Henry Messenger of Wrentham, who deceas’d last Wednesday of a Fever. They inform likewise that old Deacon Bellows59 of Southborough dy’d this Day. Mr. Seth Hudson whose Horse Mr. Stoddard had bought, was here: Judge Ward made me a Visit. N.B. Mr. Jonathan Fay brought home my Young Horse, he having kept him hitherto and asks me 30/ old Tenor per Week.

1750 April 3 (Tuesday). Was at the Funeral of Mr. Jonathan Bruce’s infant. Din’d at Lieutenant Tainters. P.M. at Mr. Nurse’s. View’d divers Tracts of Land, in order to procure Something to settle on; but cannot be suited. All is as yet very Dark.

1750 April 4 (Wednesday). Took my Horse at Neighbour Hezekiah Pratts, who kindly kept him last night, and rode to Mr. Benjamin Fays for keeping, for him but in vain—din’d at Mr. Moses Brighams. At Eve heard that Mr. William Jenison60 is dead.

1750 April 5 (Thursday). Rose early and rode to Lieutenant Brigham’s and obtain’d a Deed of the Land which I have been so long about, and made up 59£ of the Money (Old Tenor). N.B.

Mr. Daniel Warrin to keep my Horse.

1750 April 6 (Friday). My Mind and Heart very much burthen’d and afflicted from Day to

1750 April 7 (Saturday). Day by reason of my present Difficultys—but would humbly wait on God.

1750 April 8 (Sunday). Read Exod. 19 from number 7, ad fin. and Exposition of which was the forenoon Exercise. I din’d at Justice Bakers; my Wife and divers others came home. Patty Pannell and little Susan stay’d at the Meeting House P.M. read Luke 22 and to 38th number and since there have been Such a Number of Deaths of Late (which I have been inform’d of) of persons I have been acquainted with, but especially that I might drop a Tear over my Friend Mr. Messenger, I preach’d on Zech. 1.5, and my own Soul be suitable affected and profited hereby!

1750 April 9 (Monday). Took a Walk first to visit Nathan Maynard who is Sick: to old Mr.

Whipples where I din’d. P.M. was at Deacon Newtons and got him to go with me to view Mr.

Cooks Island—we had Lieutenant Bruce and Mr. Cook there to shew the Bounds. At Eve at Mr.

Nurse’s. N.B. he has got a Barrell of Tar, to make Tar-Water.

1750 April 10 (Tuesday). I went to Captain Maynards—he grows Still crosser, and appears angry at Every Thing. Nay even at Goodhues rates being mix’d with his on the Same Paper, though I was desir’d one Time after another to have Goodhue’s reckon’d at the same Time, Mr. Stephen Maynard being to Act for him—But the Captain would have nothing to do with Goodhue’s Affgairs.

1750 April 11 (Wednesday). Mr. Richard Barns has my Young Hortse to go to Boston. Agreed with Lieutenant Bruce for the Cook Island. 250£ old Tenor for what he has of Mr. Cook, being at least 7 Acres; and 300£ old Tenor, if I have the whole Island, and which he assures me I shall when he can be able to give a Title to it.

1750 April 12 (Thursday). Visited Nathan Maynard who is very ill. Mr. Stone din’d with us and preach’d my Lecture. His Text, Rom. 5.6. After Meeting we view’d Several Parts of my new bought Land to find a suitable Place to build an House on.

1750 April 13 (Friday). This Day 4 Years ago my ever honour’d and dear Mother dy’d. May I ever remember her Example and imitate her excellent Vertues! My Horse is return’d to his Boarding place.

1750 April 14 (Saturday). Jonathan Fay here for Corn for keeping my Horse. Have let him have 3 Bushels.

1750 April 15 (Sunday). Read Exod. 20, to number 18. Expository Exercise on the Commandments in general and on the first and second in particular—and the application adapted to the Occasion of the Lord’s Supper. My Wife and I din’d at Justice Baker’s. P.M. on Zech. 1.5. Not a few Strangers among us.

1750 April 16 (Monday). My Wife and I rode up to Mr. Winchesters to see their Daughter Prudence who is consuming away. We din’t there. In returning call’d at Mr. Benjamin Fays. N.B. Mrs. Miles of Concord there in a very gloomy disconsolate Condition. Catechiz’d at the Meeting House, 43 Children, males and Females. My wife waited for me with the Chair, at Mr. Fays and at Deacon Newtons. The Earth wears a pleasant Green again. Blessed be God!

1750 April 17 (Tuesday). Mr. Ezekiel Dodge came here last Night from Abington with Letter to our Church to request Assistance in his Ordination, and with a Special Request to Me in particular which I am full of Fears I can’t comply with my reason of my great Perplexity about my Building. P.M. I made a visit to Mr. Stephen Fay and his Wife who are tomorrow to move to Lambs Town. N.B. Neighbour Benjamin Fay and Neighbour Eliezer Rice there when I talk’d to them. In returning I call’d at Esq. Bakers. N.B. Consult him about my Building. N.B. Strange accounts about Mr. Jonas Child, his Conduct about his bargaining away his place and beating his wife and Children.

1750 April 18 (Wednesday). Rainy—rode to Deacon Matthias Rice’s, to Mr. George Oaks, where lodges Mr. Woods late of Sudbury, Clothier, that I might secure Some Brick among them for my intended Stack of Chimneys and thence I made a Visit at Mr. Martyns.

1750 April 19 (Thursday). I rode down to Mr. Amsdens61 to get his son in law Abijah Gale to go into the Ministerial Lott and cut Timber for my intended House. He consents and I procure Neighbour John Rogers to go with him.

1750 April 20 (Friday). Messrs. Gale and Rogers go into a Ministerial Lott as agreed Yesterday but they find only Two sticks and cutt but one of them. It rain’d also and beat ‘em off in the forenoon. I rode to the South Side as far as Mr. Charles Bruce’s—din’d at Mr. Bowmans. Proceeded to Mr. James Bradishes accompany’d by Mr. Bowman and engag’d him to work on my intended Frame. Was at divers Houses besides, promoting the Same Affair. For the Time of preparing to build is so far elaps’d that unless I am very industrious and Successfull there can be little Hopes of getting into an House before next Winter. But I meet with considerable Encouragement—and especially from Mr. Bowman, who likewise presented me a Bushel and half of Indian Corn, and carried it to Lieutenant Tainters, in order to its being Sent to Mill. Visited Mr. Bonds62 Family who are newly come into Town.

1750 April 21 (Saturday). Brother Hicks here from Cambridge and brings me the very Sorrowfull News of the Death of my Reverend and valuable Pastor, Mr. Webb of Boston. May God Sanctifie this Dispensation to me, to the Bereaved Flock at the New North in Boston, and to the bereaved Colleague, and Family in particular! We have great reason to mourn and grieve for the Interest of Religion in this Day when such Sound, pious, usefull Men are, one after another removed from us. O that God would have mercy on us when So many Sad Aspects appear! N.B. Remarkable Gusts of Wind.

1750 April 22 (Sunday). A.M. read Exod. 20 from number 18—gave some Exposition of the Second Commandment—din’d at Justice Bakers. Walk’d up and back. P.M. read Luke 23 to number 27. Preach’d on Eph. 2.8 latter part. Us’d my Sermon on the forepart of this number from page 10 to 16 with many alterations and added some Account of Reverend Mr. Webb. After the Exercises read the Letter from Abington, requesting the Church to assist in the Ordination of Mr. Dodge63—the Church votes Complyance.64 But some did not vote among the Rest Deacon Newton,65 who gave this Reason that the Church had no Return made ‘em of Shrewsbury Council’s Proceedings—No Result. This answer of the Deacons Troubled me because the Deacon had several Opportunitys to have Spoken to me in private but never gave me any hint of disquietment.

1750 April 23 (Monday). Mr. Martyn brought Mrs. Molly, his Daughter here, and rode himself to Grafton-Church Meeting which was concerning the Ordination of Mr. Hutchinson. N.B. Mrs. Sibyl Child in distress about her Husband, Mr. Jonas Child, who is Supposed to be delirious. She Send for me and I went today. Din’d at Mr. Harringtons—went to Mr. Grows and Ensign Millers. I went also and talk’d with Deacon Newton. Mr. Martyn here at Night.

1750 April 24 (Tuesday). Rain is very seasonable.

1750 April 25 (Wednesday). Neighbour William Rogers junior work’d for me. I rode to Mr. Jonas Brighams to Send an Answer to a Letter from my Brother William concerning Captain Stansbury’s Negro. But they Set out Early—however I put on hastily after them and proceeded down the Road till overtook Mr. Twitchell with the Team. From thence I rode to Mr. Stones but he was again gone to Boston. Was at old Mr. Johnsons and at Mr. Amsdens and took particular Demensions of the Timber for my House, of Abijah Gale whom I employ’d to undertake my Frame. When I return’d, Mr. Morse of Shrewsbury was here and din’d with us. N.B. Joseph Bruce came to work for me this afternoon. N.B. Mr. Jeremiah Fowler and Captain Maynard here. The former brought a Jackal, an Entertaining Sight. How wondrously are the Works of God diversify’d! How manifest are thy Works, O Lord! in wisdom hast thou made them all!

1750 April 26 (Thursday). Joseph Bruce works for me. Mr. Martyn and his Spouse made us a Visit. My wife and I, in our Chair, wait on them in theirs, over to the Meeting House Ground, to see the places which are recommended for my building Spot. N.B. We went round by Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s, where was Mr. Fowler with his Jackall, who invites us up Chamber to See him and his pranks. So many resort there to see this Strange Creature that I am doubtful what the Event will be. N.B. Mr. Martyn as Moderator of the Church in Grafton draws Letters Missive to the Churchs which they invite to the Ordination of Mr. Hutchinson.

1750 April 27 (Friday). Mrs. Sally Gott66 and her Sister Betty came to See us. Din’d here. Joseph Bruce works here. They begin to plant Indian Corn.

1750 April 28 (Saturday). Forbush (from College) lodg’d here last Night. Ebenezer and Joseph ploughing and planting. Extraordinary high Gusts of Wind.

1750 April 29 (Sunday). Read Exod. 21. Gave an Exposition of the Third Commandment a. and p.m. Din’d at Justice Bakers; my Wife, Ebenezer and Molly, Lucy and Sarah and Alexander likewise. Joseph Bruce and Patty Pannell, who were all of my Family that were at meeting—came home to Dinner. I rode to meeting p.m. on Justice Bakers Horse. P.M. I read Luke 23 throughout. O that we might not take the Name of our God in Vain in our religious Services! and that we might not miss of the Blessing of the Sabbath! Very weary at Night So that I lay down.

1750 April 30 (Monday). Rode to Mr. Dunlops to see him in his Sickness. Lieutenant Tainter blooded him. I return’d with him to his House, as a terrible Storm of Thunder and Rain arose. Din’d at Lieutenant Tainters. P.M. visited old Mrs. Dorcas Forbush. N.B. Mr. David Batherick fell upon me as I was coming out of the Door with bitter Resentments of Abuse, because when I yesterday, for the last singing in Publick appointed Mean Tune to be sung, and he instead of Mean, Set Canterbury (as I thought through either Mistake, or because he could not strike upon Mean at that Time) I set the Tune mention’d myself. Nor did I know that this or the other Triple Time Tunes were displeasing to any, till he now makes it one aggravation of the Offence that I knew that people did not like it and yet I would Sett it. N.B. Mrs. Batherick Said there was one who said he would go out if that Tune was Sung. I answer’d that (who ever he was) he was (or would be if he Should do so) a Blockhead for his Pains. N.B. Lieutenant Thomas Forbush sat by and heard his Bitterness. N.B. I was very much mov’d, and gave him Some deserv’d Correction. But the Lord forgive what was amiss in me at this Critical Juncture. When I came home, I found here Mr. Samuel Haven67 of Framingham who desires he may come and board at my House and study Divinity.

1750 May 1 (Tuesday). Very pleasant after the Rain. All Nature blooming and flourishing whilst (alas!) my Heart is as a barren Wilderness. Mr. Haven left us to go back to Framingham. My Wife and I rode to Mr. Twitchells.68 Ebenezer and Joseph Mending Fence, ploughing and preparing the Fields for Planting.

1750 May 2 (Wednesday). Wondrous pleasant and Delightfull. A beautiful Prospect all round; the Air every where perfum’d by the Blossoms; and a Tunefull Chorus of different kinds of Birds, which Sing their Makers Praise. Lord! all thy works praise thee; and may thy Saints bless thee! Bless the Lord O my Soul! Agreed with Joseph Bruce to live with me for three months; from yesterday, till the first of August, for 41£ old Tenor. But then by taking in the Days that he had work’d for me before this month came in on one hand, and allowing him two Days to Spend for himself of the Time to come, on the other; we agree that I shall pay him 42£ in the whole, when his Term shall be up. N.B. Sent home Mr. Dyers Emlyn69 by one Ephraim Bacon of Dedham.

1750 May 3 (Thursday). Consulting all the authors I can, on the Sabbath. Visit Mr. Cushing and din’d there.

1750 May 4 (Friday). Ebenezer finish’d planting Indian Corn. P.M. Ebenezer and Molly to Mr. Martyns.

1750 May 5 (Saturday). A.M. Ebenezer went for a pair of Cart Wheels to Mr. Joseph Miles70 and brought ‘em Home. Price 10£ Old Tenor.

1750 May 6 (Sunday). Read Exod. 22. Expounded the Fourth Commandment a. and p.m. My Wife and I din’d at Justice Bakers, he having provided and handed an Horse ready tackled for us both. P.M. read Luke 24. After Exercises Mr. Charles Bruce brought me the Earnest Desire of Mrs. Kelly (wife of [blank] Kelley a member of the Church of England in Hopkinton) to visit her, She being very sick—I comply’d. Rode to Deacon Forbushes in my Chair, left my Daughter Molly there, and borrow’d Mr. Jonathan Forbush’s Horse, and with Mr. Bruce to pilot, I saw her and pray’d with her. Return’d home the same Evening.

1750 May 7 (Monday). My wife rode with me to see Adonijah Rice,71 sick of a Fever; and thence to Marlborough. Deacon Tainter making me a black Cloth Jacket out of an old Broadcloth Coat. We din’d Dr. Gotts. N.B. the Doctor gives me his Hand in token of reconcilement. Design’d a Visit to Mr. Smith but he was gone to Cape Ann. N.B. Mr. Hezekiah Bush72 who suddenly drop’d down dead last—Saturday a.m. bury’d to Day. A very awful and awakening Dispensation when a man is taken away So very Suddenly! The Lord quickens us all hereby! that we may be in an immediate Readiness. Visited Colonel Williams and return’d at Eve in safety. Thanks be to God!

1750 May 8 (Tuesday). As the Earth has needed Rain notwithstanding the late Rains, this Day increases the Dryness.

1750 May 9 (Wednesday). But especially this, which is very warm—the sun burns as in Summer. Finish’d Secret History of Europe73 Part I, which is volume I.

1750 May 10 (Thursday). A good Air, but burning sun. Brother Hicks and his Daughter Betty going to Cambridge. At Eve Rain, Thunder and Lightning. Lieutenant Tainter here; wants to know where people shall lay the Timber which they provide for me. Jonas Child in sad Distraction Still.

1750 May 11 (Friday). [No entry.]

1750 May 12 (Saturday). Captain Maynard and I renewed Bounds where the old Meeting House stood and agreed that the Stake and Stones, exactly East of the old Meeting House East Door, Should Stand where we have now placed it, till it Should appear by a Survey with Instruments that it is not according to the Plott. Reverend Mr. Joseph Bellamy74 of Woodberry in Connecticut came to See me, and he brought a Letter to me, and another to the Church from Mr. Edwards75 of Northampton requesting us to assist them in Council on June 19 next. Revd. Mr. Stone came p.m. N.B. Mr. Stone came in answer to my Desire to change tomorrow, but when he perceiv’d how, in divine Providence I was Supply’d, he went over to Mr. Martyn and Succeeded. Brother Hicks also here, from Boston and brought me a kind good Letter from Mrs. Pierpoint. I bless God for this Correspondence! I am fill’d with Shame and Grief that I can Sustain it no better. O that God would manifest His Grace towards me and qualifie me!

1750 May 13 (Sunday). Read Exod. 23. Mr. Bellamy preach’d from Job 22.21. He din’d with me at Justice Bakers. P.M. I read John 1, Mr. Bellamy from Luke 16.30. His Exercises were very moving as well as enlightening. Would fervently pray and hope there may be a Saving Influence of the Spirit of Grace accompanying. N.B. I am much concern’d for our Brother Jonas Child, who I hear is often making attempts upon his Life. If it did not rain So hard this Evening I Should not rest without going to See him: yet he was at meeting to Day, and Set the Tune, Sweetly and agreeably as ever. Savoury and entertaining Conversation with Mr. Bellamy, whom I find an ingenious as well as Pious Man.

1750 May 14 (Monday). Accompany’d Mr. Bellamy 2 Mile or more on his Journey. Was at Mr. Beemans at the moving of his Barn. Oblig’d to improve every Opportunity to forward my Building—I must undertake it under So many disadvantages. P.M. to Deacon Tainters and Dr. Gotts at Marlborough. At Eve at Mr. Bradishs who and his wife likewise are sick. I was not very well while I was there.

1750 May 15 (Tuesday). Lieutenant Forbush and I went to view the Ridge or Nole, which joins to the Land I lately bought of Lieutenant Nathan Brigham, and he Stak’d out how much I Should have if it Should Suit me to build upon it. P.M. Mr. Martyn here. My Concern very great about Mr. Hutchinson76 settling at Grafton. Rain Eve. I have been hinder’d visiting Mr. Child.

1750 May 16 (Wednesday). Was at Mr. Jonas Childs, but neither he nor his Wife at home. Hear that Mr. Biglo has taken him with him to Marlborough to work at a Stone-Wall, which I hope will prove a good thing, and proper means of diverting his Mind and helping his Body. Ebenezer and Billy went up to Brother Hicks’s with 5 Young Cattle. I visited old Mr. Fay. N.B. Colonel Buckminister and Lady here when I was from home, They being in their Journey to Brookfield and Rutland. N.B. Captain Maynard fences the old Meeting House Ground.

1750 May 17 (Thursday). My Wife rode over to Mr. Woods (the Clothier) with a Message from Me, of my Dependence upon him for Bricks. She was also at Mr. Martyns. I rode to Mr. Twitchells and to Mr. Bradishs, for Girders for my design’d Building. N.B. Mr. Broad of Natick here. N.B. Mr. Cushing at my House (while I was absent and knew it not) waiting Some Hours to Speak with me concerning going to Mr. Dodge’s Ordination and that he purpose to preach.

1750 May 18 (Friday). Ebenezer over at Mr. Benjamin Hows, making a Cart. Mr. Hutchinson din’d here—have more Satisfaction about him and their Affairs at Grafton than I had.

1750 May 19 (Saturday). Mr. Martyn, in his way to Grafton Stops here; he approves of the proposal that Mr. Hutchinson preach for me tomorrow and I to the Northside. Mr. Hutchinson here at Eve and lodg’d here.

1750 May 20 (Sunday). Mr. Hutchinson preach’d for me, and I for him at Mr. Martyns. N.B. I preach’d on Mat. 25.46, latter part all Day. Honourable Samuel Watts77 and Colonel Richards78 at Meeting, and I ask’d ‘em to dine with me; which they comply’d with. At Eve I return’d home—as did Mr. Martyn also. Mr. Hutchinson lodg’d at my House.

1750 May 21 (Monday). Mr. Hutchinson to Grafton. My Wife and I to Mr. Beemans raising his Barn. Ebenezer and Joseph there. After Dinner we went to Lieutenant Bruce’s to move his Barn. Whilst I was there came Lieutenant Tainter, and told me we had Some other Duty to attend, for that poor Jonas Child had hang’d himself and was Dead: and it was desir’d that I would go to his House forthwith. I did So, Mrs. Parkman with me. I went up to the Scaffold and Saw him (miserable Creature!) a ghastly, lifeless Corps. How awful the Dispensation! One of the Members of the Church! God’s Judgments are a great Deep! unsearchable! and his Ways past finding out! A multitude were gather’d, and the Coroner came, Lieutenant Hezekiah Ward, the distress’d widow and Relatives desiring it, I pray’d with them and took Leave. May the Lord (of his infinite Mercy) Sanctifie this terrible Stroke to us all! Tis very worthy of my Notice that I have never had opportunity to Speak with this poor Man in all this Time of his perplexity and Temptation though I have been to his House to see him one Time after another. It fills me with Grief and Trouble. O that we might all be quicken’d—to a consciencious Discharge of every Duty; careful improvement of the Day and Means of Grace; watchfulness against the Snares and Temptations of the Devil; against quenching the holy Spirit of Grace, or so much as grieving the Spirit or provoking Him to withdraw from us. Jury Satt up all night.

1750 May 22 (Tuesday). Verdict “in a Fitt of Distraction.” Though I was full of Sorrow yet having promis’d to go over to Mr. Martyn my wife and I went; and din’d there. P.M. Mr. Martyn and I rode to the Mason Hastings,79 and thence to Mr. Morse’s80—but neither of them at Home. Went to Mr. Bush’s, Representative, but the Town do not send.

1750 May 23 (Wednesday). At Mr. Jonas Childs Funeral. A great and sorrowful Burying.

1750 May 24 (Thursday). Mrs. Bowker81 (heretofore Sarah Tainter) taken leave and goes to live at Summers. Mr. Hutchinson came up from Boston and preach’d my Lecture. Text John 14.16.17. After Exercise Mr. Hutchinson, my wife and I were refresh’d at justice Bakers. N.B. Brother Edwards Whipple Set the Psalm.

1750 May 25 (Friday). Mr. Bellamy din’d here upon his return from Boston to Northampton: tells me that neither Mr. Foxcroft,82 nor Mr. Wigglesworth83 will go to the Council at Northampton but hopes Mr. Hobby84 will. Mr. Bellamy did not tarry. I was forced to Send a Denyal to Mr. Edwards. N.B. Ebenezer and Joseph Weeding.

1750 May 26 (Saturday). Justice Charles Brigham85 here. I enquir’d of him why his Children were not baptiz’d? He answer’d that many Things had occurr’d to his Disappointment. Towards Night came the Reverend Mr. Samuel Hopkins86 of Springfield and his Daughter.

1750 May 27 (Sunday). I administered the Lords Supper. A.M. read Exod. 25 to number 23. Mr. Hopkins preach’d on 2 Cor. 6.1 a. and p.m. He was with us at Communion. Mr. Hopkins, my wife and I din’d at justice Bakers. P.M. I read John second Chapter. N.B. Brother Edwards Whipple set the psalm. N.B. When the Church was transacting the Affair relating to the Ordination of Mr. Hutchinson at Grafton the Choice of one of the Delegates was much clogg’d. Deacon Forbush was nominated, but the vote not clear—he excus’d himself. Lieutenant Tainter was nominated, but no vote. At length Brother Whitney was chose; Scil: together with Esq. Baker.

1750 May 28 (Monday). I waited on Mr. Hopkins and his Daughter as far as Mr. Bathericks, on their way to Boston. Thence I visited the Sorrowful widow Child and din’d there p.m. Visited Adonijah Rice who is still weak and low; his Case dubious. Catechiz’d at the Meeting House, at 3 p.m. 40 Children if I mistake not. Ebenezer and Joseph finish weeding. From Mr. Nurse’s, Sent by Mr. Samuel Fay to Mr. Kneeland,87 an Account of Mr. Jonas Child.

1750 May 29 (Tuesday). My Kinsman Nathaniel Parkman88 accompany’d by Daniel Hastings came to See me. My Son Thomas also came home to See us. They all lodg’d here; and their Horses are all kept here. N.B. A Most Shocking Account of Mr. William Williams89 of Weston. And hear of Sudden Deaths from Day to Day.

1750 May 30 (Wednesday). Endeavour’d to keep Election at home. After Dinner we Sung part of the eightieth psalm. P.M. came old Mr. Maynard and old Mr. Whipple to see me. Read ‘em those parts of Mr. Prince’s Chronology90 which contains the Beginnings of the Plymouth and Massachusetts Colonys. Endeavour’d to be myself and to make my Family etc. sensible of God’s Favours to New England. The Lord make us truely Thankfull for them, preserve them and grant Grace to improve them!

1750 May 31 (Thursday). Mrs. Nanny and Beckky Gott, Mr. Martyn and wife and Mr. Morse and wife here. My Son Thomas cutts off his Hair. He and his Brother to Upton. My Kinsman Nathaniel went over to Lieutenant Tainters to dine there and did not return. Every Day confirms and increases the sorrowful News from Weston. N.B. My Wife’s Neices lodge here.

1750 June 1 (Friday). Thomas return’d to Concord; and Mrs. Nanny and Beckky Gott with him as far as Marlborough. Ebenezer and Joseph put up a Partition Fence from South to North in the upper part of the Great Pasture. I finish’d the Life of Miley Ismael Emperor of Morocco.91 P.M. Mr. Millen92 and his Spouse, accompany’d by Mr. Palmer,93 Schoolmaster, here. The Weather, especially in the Nights, very Cool for Some Time.

1750 June 2 (Saturday). Wrote, and sent to Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s for Conveyance a Line to Mr. Hutchinson concerning his preparing a Confession of his Faith against his Ordination.

1750 June 3 (Sunday). Read Exod. 25.23, preach’d on Rom. 11.33, latter part, a. and p.m. Din’d at Justice Bakers. N.B. an Horse is provided for me and my wife statedly to ride up to Dinner. P.M. read John third.

1750 June 4 (Monday). Cousen Nathaniel and I rode to Mr. Twitchells. P.M. came Mr. Samuel Haven to dwell here. He was accompany’d by his uncle Deacon Burnap of Hopkinton.

1750 June 5 (Tuesday). A Day to be remember’d—as for my Accepting the Call of the Town in the Year 1724. So now for my undertaking to begin the World again on the South Road—a Number of Neighbours came to Clear and plough down the Knoll which I purpose to build on. It was very much owing to Lieutenant Bruce, and accordingly a.m. there was a number to clear the ground, Scil. Neighbour John Rogers, Thomas Frost, and Abraham Beeman, besides my own Ebenezer and Joseph, and p.m. a considerable Number with their Cattle to plough and levill it. Lieutenant Bruce and Oxen, Mr. Timothy Warrin with Oxen both his own and his Brother Daniels, Mr. John Rogers with Oxen, which with my own oxen made up Ten. Other Hands were Ephraim Bruce, Ebenezer Forbush, Neighbour Cook, Eleazer Williams, Timothy Warrin, Samuel Harrington, Simon Tainter, Abner Newton, Junior. N.B. Lieutenant Forbush and I transacted the Affair of our Conveyance of the Title to the Knoll and Land adjoining. He gave me a Deed of an Acre and Quarter—for 11£ old Tenor.

1750 June 6 (Wednesday). My Wife, Mr. Haven, Son Ebenezer and Two Daughters Molly and Lucy rode in the Rain, in Company with Mr. Martyn, his wife and Daughter, to Grafton to the Ordination of Mr. Aaron Hutchinson. Council met at Mr. Ebenezer Brooks’. Consisted of the following Churches. West Church in Sudbury, the 2 Churches of Westborough, First Church in Sutton, Church in Southborough, and the First in Hebron, and the Church in Worcester. Mr. Loring Moderator, Mr. Martyn Clerk. Moderator pray’d, Mr. Hutchinson was examin’d. Mr. Ebenezer Wadsworth came and objected against our proceeding. N.B. Captain Sadler and his wife, his witnesses on the one part, to prove falsehood upon him. Mr. Joseph Batchellour and his wife were to be the other, but they could not be had, nor were prepar’d—but if they were, the Subject Matter of the Difficulty was not thought to be sufficient to retard the Council. About 2 p.m. went to Meeting. Mr. Martyn pray’d, Mr. Pomroy94 of Hebron preach’d on Acts 20.28. Mr. Loring gave the Charge. Mr. Hall95 pray’d after the Charge. The Right Hand I deliver’d was much the same with that which I prepar’d for and gave at Mr. Buckminsters Ordination at Rutland. N.B. Thunder Storm at night when we got home. Mr. Martyn etc. Stay’d till it was over. Mr. Smith of Marlborough tarry’d over Night. N.B. Mr. Haven and Mr. Dodge went up to Sutton, and carry’d my two Daughters to Esq. Goddard’s;96 and Deacon Burnap of Hopkinton came hither, and led home Mr. Havens Horse. Thus have we Seen the Vacancy at Grafton, which has given the Churches so great Trouble, from Year to Year, thus far happily made up; and God grant the Joy may not diminish! N.B. Wrote to Mr. Pierpoint by Mr. Bliss of Concord.

1750 June 7 (Thursday). Mr. Smith tarried and din’d with us. Dr. Gott came and accompany’d him. At Night our Young People return’d from Sutton. N.B. Dodge lodg’d here. I was so very ill, with a bad Cold, feverish etc. through the Night. My Kinsman Nathaniel Set out for Boston.

1750 June 8 (Friday). Mr. Dodge din’d with us. My son Ebenezer ill with a Cold. P.M. a Number of Neighbours went to my Knoll, with Two Yoke of Cattle besides my own, and with Shovels, Hoes and Barrs to levell it further. They were chiefly Mr. Charles Rice, Lieutenant Thomas Forbush, Lieutenant Bruce, Lieutenant Tainter, Mr. Grow, Bowman, Harrington, Simon Tainter Junior, Jonathan Forbush, Charles Bruce, Ephraim Bruce, Adams, Rogers (with oxen), Timothy Warrin, Abraham Bond, Samuel Forbush junior, [blank] Miller, Eleazer Williams, Abner Rice, and Daniel Forbush junior with a Cart and Oxen. N.B. Neighbour Ebenezer Maynard raised his House this Afternoon. I supp’d there. A Time of remarkable and great Colds.

1750 June 9 (Saturday). A Cool Air—most people oppress’d with Colds. Ebenezer unable to do any great matter. Mr. Dodge came p.m.

1750 June 10 (Sunday). Read Exod. 26, and gave some Exposition of it. Mr. Dodge preach’d on Prov. 3.17. He, my wife and I din’d at Esq. Bakers, where was Mr. Thomas Cheevers97 of Lyn. Mr. Haven din’d at my House. P.M. Read John 4. Mr. Dodge preach’d on Heb. 2.3. I gave Notice to the Church and Congregation of the Association Fast next Tuesday at Mr. Martyns. N.B. Mr. James Maynard was at Meeting.

1750 June 11 (Monday). Very rainy. Mr. Dodge left us, a.m. Mr. Jonah Warrin here; tells me he has got me 6500 Shingle. I gave him a Note to Lieutenant Tainter for 26£ old Tenor.

1750 June 12 (Tuesday). Mr. Haven and I rode over to Mr. Martyns it being Association Fast there. But a few Members came, viz. Mr. Cushing, Mr. Goss,98 Buckminster and Maccarty. Afterwards for the last service came Mr. Barrett—and when we came home at Eve Mr. Seccomb.99 As to the Exercises, Mr. Martyn pray’d and Mr. Buckminster preach’d on Rev. 2.3.4. P.M. Mr. Goss pray’d and Mr. Maccarty preach’d on Mat. 16.28. It was committed to me to draw up an Answer to the Letter which was sent us from the Association of which the Reverend Mr. Townsend100 of Needham was Moderator in reply to a Message from us to them by a Committee which we sent them upon the Affair of guarding our Pulpits and Examining Candidates. I lodg’d with Mr. Maccarty at Mr. Martyns. Most of us indispos’d with a great Cold.

1750 June 13 (Wednesday). I walk’d over from Mr. Martyns in the Morning to Mr. Gideon Haywards and talk’d with Mr. Lull about my Land in Townsend. Says he’ll go over with me to Townsend as soon as Hay Time is over. Mr. Haven who rode home to my House last Evening in my Chair, return’d to Day (at my request) to carry me back. N.B. Mr. Barrett with me most of the p.m.

1750 June 14 (Thursday). Ebenezer and Joseph are mowing Bushes. I rode to Mr. Bonds and left a Letter for Mr. Beriah Rice about his meadow in Chauncy. Was at Lieutenant Tainters who was mowing. Money extreme difficult to be got; receiv’d 30£ old Tenor when the whole sallery should be finish’d.

1750 June 15 (Friday). Brother Hicks brought up sister Hannah Champney101 from Cambridge. Ebenezer and Joseph Clear over by the new Meeting House.

1750 June 16 (Saturday). Brother Hicks goes up to Sutton with Sister Hannah. Ebenezer and Joseph clear again over at the New meeting House. Samuel Bumpso lends ‘em an Hand.

1750 June 17 (Sunday). My illness was much increas’d that I did not go to Meeting without a great deal of Difficulty. My wife and I rode in the Chair, and Mr. Haven and Molly on the Horse. I read Exod. 27, and preach’d on Exod. 20.8. Din’d (together with my wife) at Esq. Bakers. P.M. read John 5, and carry’d on the Exercise on Exod. 20.8. Very much indispos’d and worried at night.

1750 June 18 (Monday). Mr. Martyn here. He rode with me to my new Knoll. At Eve he carry’d Molly over to his House as to tarry a few Days with them. Joseph half-hilling p.m.

1750 June 19 (Tuesday). Mr. Haven rode with me to old Mr. Fays. We din’d there. Took up Mr. Fay into my Chair to see how he could bear to ride in one. Mr. Haven and I rode to Mr. Winchesters—would have had Prudy ride in the Chair, but she was too Weak. We return’d to Mr. Moses Brighams Raising of his Barn, and were well entertain’d there. Mr. Ebenezer Rice undertakes to get me the 4 Beams of my intended House, and Mr. William Pierce to hew the 4 Girts (which are wanting). Mr. Daniel Hardy finding the Timbers.

1750 June 20 (Wednesday). Mr. Noah How hoed here at half hilling.

1750 June 21 (Thursday). Ebenezer did so much as to mow the Garden and foreyard a.m. I rode to Mr. Martyns—din’d there. Thunder storm arose and detain’d me an Hour or Two. Brought Molly home. Mr. Martyn came with me. Lecture to young men was appointed to be at 4 p.m. but we were 34 Minutes after, when we began being hinder’d by the Storm. Mr. Martyn preach’d on Josh. 24.21. N.B. I rode out at Eve by Express Desire to a woman (one of the Members of the Church who has try’d to hang herself) this Day. A most astonishing power which the Devil has among us!

1750 June 22 (Friday). [No entry.]

1750 June 23 (Saturday). I had agreed with Mr. Martyn to change with him tomorrow, but Mr. Stone coming here and desiring to Change I sent him to Mr. Martyn that he might Supply my place at the North Side, and I rode to Soutborough.

1750 June 24 (Sunday). I preach’d at Southborough on Prov. 14.9, and p.m. on Mat. 16.26 to page 15, and baptiz’d Miriam, of Manasseh and Dinah Stow. At Eve return’d home. Mr. Martyn preach’d for me on Regeneration from John 3.5.

1750 June 25 (Monday). Funeral of Joseph Rice’s Child. N.B. At the House of Mourning heard the astonishing account of the fearful Judgment of God on Robert Woodberry of Beverly, who having in his Lifetime been us’d to profane Cursing, and wishing persons might go to Hell and blare like a Calf especially would often curse his worthy Mother in this Manner—and carry’d it very basely and cruelly to his Wife, sicken’d and dy’d, and when the Corps had lain a Suitable Time to be laid out, a horrible Sound broke forth from the Corps, blaring like a Calf. This Story is Said to be sufficiently attested to be credited. After the Funeral I visited old Captain Forbush who has been ill of late; and he receiv’d my advice to him affectionately and gratefully. N.B. William rode to Marlborough with Lucy and brought up Mrs. Sally Gott.

1750 June 26 (Tuesday). Mr. Martyn and his Spouse here and din’d with us. Towards Eve my Wife undertakes the Weaning of little Breck; and to accomplish it the better, she and Sally rode to Worcester. When I was preparing to go to bed, came Mr. William Rogers and desir’d me to go to Mr. David Brigham, whom I found past Speaking. He Expir’d while I was there between 11 and 12 o’Clock. A serious man and I hope dy’d in Christ. He was taken ill on the Sabbath a.m. at meeting. Twas thought to be the Effect of the great Cold that goes about. He was So comfortable this Day that p.m. the Sun about Two Hours high, he walk’d into the other room; yet a little after sunsett was not able to Speak any more, nor understand any Thing. So Sudden was the Summons. I return’d home about midnight.

1750 June 27 (Wednesday). It rain’d all Day. Ebenezer and Joseph fixing up the New Cart with Ladders.

1750 June 28 (Thursday). Rode with Mr. Eliezer Rice and his Wife to Mr. Brighams and had discourse with her referring to her Temptations. Attended the Funeral of Mr. David Brigham there being now but 3 of the first 12 members who were in the Foundation of this Church, Surviving. May be truely sensible of our hastening into the Eternal World, who commonly are So extremely fond of this! And O that our practices and Experiences might bear some proposition to our high and Sacred Professions! After Funeral I rode over to Mr. Martyns. Captain Eager and Lieutenant Holloway and Mr. Jacob Rice in Company. My Wife and Mrs. Sally Gott came from Worcester to Mr. Martyns after we had din’d, but Seasonably for Lecture. I preach’d on Hos. 6.6. I desir’d the Knowledge of God more than Burnt Offerings.

1750 June 29 (Friday). Mr. Goodhue came from Hopkinton Requesting me to visit his Brother Jeremy who lies very bad at his House; (yet is, at Madam Dench’s, where he has hired). I accordingly went. Din’d with Mrs. Barrett. Found Jeremy not altogether so bad as I fear’d. Talk’d with Mrs. Dench about her Mothers Apparition to Mr. Cutting a Gentleman from Barbadoes in Boston. At Eve returning home and calling at Mr. Barretts (who was not come home yet) had some Conversation with Mrs. Price (Commissarys Lady). Met Mr. Barrett on the Road—could not get from Hopkinton till some time after sunsett and therefore was late home; but safe. Blessed be God!

1750 June 30 (Saturday). Ebenezer and Joseph mowing Day by Day Except that Ebenezer was at Times indispos’d. N.B. Colonel Chandler and his Lady here, in their Journey from Boston to Worcester. By the various accidents and avocations of this Week have been exceedingly interrupted and impeded in my Studys and Preparations for the Sabbath.

1750 July 1 (Sunday). Read Exod. 2.8 to verse 29, and Preach’d on Rom. 6.13. Yield yourself to God—repeating what I had heretofore compos’d and deliver’d on that Subject. My Wife and I din’d at Esq. Bakers. P.M. read John 6 to number 34, and in preaching did the remainder of the forenoon Discourse.

1750 July 2 (Monday). Joseph plough’d for Hilling. Ebenezer much indispos’d and works but little. P.M. My Wife and I in the Chair and Mr. Haven on my Young Horse undertake a Journey, designing for Boston as Soon as with Convenience we can get there. A Thunder Storm came up, and we were Stopp’d at Mr. Elisha Wards till near Sunsett. Proceeded as far as Mr. Stones at Southborough and lodg’d there.

1750 July 3 (Tuesday). Rode to Framingham and broke fast at Mr. Joseph Havens.102 We call’d at Colonel Bakers. Another storm came up by that Time we arriv’d at Mr. Benjamin Hastings at Watertown. We din’d there, and proceeded to Cambridge. I tarried and lodg’d at sister Lydia Champneys. Mr. Haven waited on my Wife to Boston and brought back the Chair to me. Kept my Mare at Brother Champney’s.

1750 July 4 (Wednesday). This being Commencement I contracted Some acquaintance with Two of the Young Batchellours who were ingenious and Sober Men. Sir Fish103 and Sir True,104 but I was entertain’d chiefly at Sir Cotton’s105 (where I broke Fast) and at Sir Gardner’s.106 Was Sent for by the Corporation to give my Testimony concerning Mr. Hutchinson of Grafton. N.B. Sir Dudley’s107 Oration was pronounc’d, but very indifferently. Din’d at Mr. Monis,108 for the Sake of Mr. Martyn as well as to honor my old Master. Conversation very much turns upon Mr. Edwards Dismission from Northampton. P.M. the President in his Oration exceedingly laments the miserable State to which Learning and the Ministry are reduc’d—by means of the Niggardliness of people. Complains of his own Miserable Circumstances. N.B. Lodg’d at the Same place and Mr. Haven with me.

1750 July 5 (Thursday). I rode Early to Boston. Mr. Barnard109 of Marblehead preach’d the Lecture on 1 Tim. 3.16. I din’d at My Kinsman Oliver,110 who has a son (Alexander) lately born. But Sorrowful accounts of the Conduct of Jonathan Coarser111 in his Life Time, towards his Wife; and of his Miserable End. N.B. Her sister Lydia is embarking to go to her Husband (Mr. David) at Chebucta. At Eve Mrs. Harris, Widow of Captain William Harris was at Brother Samuels with Brother William who is publish’d to her. N.B. Revd. Mr. Gay112 of Hingham was with us at supper. It was indeed expected that my Brother would have been marry’d this Evening to the Said Lady but by means of one of her sons going to sea She would not get ready. My Wife and I lodg’d at Brother Samuel’s, My Horse at Mr. Stoddards, my Chair at Mr. Eaton’s.

1750 July 6 (Friday). Mr. Oliver went with Me to one Mr. Maxwell’s in Kings Street where I bought Two Cheeses, one Gloucester (of old England), the other Rhode-Island, both weighing 32£ at 3/ old Tenor per pound. We din’d at Judge Dudleys,113 baited at old Mr. Livermores in Weston, called at Colonel Buckminsters114 at Framingham and lodg’d at Mr. Joseph Havens. N.B. an exceeding violent storm of Hail etc. on the fourth, p.m.

1750 July 7 (Saturday). Mr. Samuel Haven returns with us to our House. In our way Call’d at Mr. Reeds; and Mrs. Whatnot gives me an account of Mrs. Pierpoints Troubles about Mr. Curtis,115 the preacher who is there with them. Stopp’d at Mr. Nichols’s: din’d at Mr. Stones and return’d in Safety, finding my Family well. Blessed be God! Ebenezer and Joseph have finish’d the hilling of Indian Corn this Week—having had Mr. David Maynard junior’s Horse to plough.

1750 July 8 (Sunday). An hot Day. Mr. Martyn and I Chang’d. He preach’d on John 3.5. I preach’d to his people on 1 John 3.3 and 1 Tim. 6.12. He read Exod. 28 from number 29 and John 6 from number 34, as I also read in his Course for him. Each return’d Eve.

1750 July 9 (Monday). Prudence Winchester being Very low and like to dye, Sends for Me and I went. Found a wonderful Change in her, and hope it is a Saving. All last night indeed She was in terrible Distress, but this Morning had gracious Discoveries of the mercy and Graciousness of God to her. Ebenezer and Joseph mowing. Manning lodg’d here.

1750 July 10 (Tuesday). Mr. Martyn and his wife, with me and mine, visited Mr. Barrett at Hopkinton.

1750 July 11 (Wednesday). Tended Hay as I was able. Near Night rode over to Mr. Woods about my Bricks fearing I shall be disappointed of them. And went to Mr. Martyns.

1750 July 12 (Thursday). A.M. did something at the Hay. P.M. preach’d the Lecture before Sacrament on Luke 24.46 to page 11. After Lecture I rode to Grafton and supp’d with Mr. Hutchinson who to Day brought home his Spouse. Of ministers there was only Mr. Cushing, of Ladys none besides Mrs. Betty Hall, and the Town people to wait on them. I lodg’d there. Ebenezer and Joseph reap Rye and did not go to Lecture.

1750 July 13 (Friday). Hot weather from Day to Day. In returning home, Mr. Hutchinson with me, as far as to Winchesters where we call’d to see Prudence, and he pray’d with her. N.B. Her Consolation not without some Darkness and Difficulty. N.B. Mr. Haven lodg’d at Deacon Forbush’s last Night. Ebenezer and Joseph, besides what they do about the Hay, reaped and got in part of the Rye. It has been, now for Some Time a wondrous growing Season. Might our Hearts be as fruitful and flourishing!

1750 July 14 (Saturday). My Incumbrances and Cares, my Indispositions of Body and Distress of Mind So grievous and pressing when I discern my Preparations to be short of what they ought to be, that at Night I was much distress’d.

1750 July 15 (Sunday). Administered the Sacred Ordinance of the Supper—And as to the Common Exercises of the Lords Day Read Exod. 29, and preach’d on Eph. 1.3. P.M. read John 7 and for the Sermon, though I had by me a considerable Preparation upon the Subject I have begun Scil. of the Fourth Commandment yet the Argument not being finish’d, I chose not to deliver it till I could in one View, at least the Same Day; and considering likewise that the Subject I was upon last Lecture Day was so much more suitable for the Day, I therefore went on with that, and repeated from Luke 24.46. N.B. Mr. Haven, invited by Esq. Baker, din’d there with us (viz. with my wife, Daughter Molly and I). O that we might have both a suitable apprehension of the Sufferings of Christ and have fellowship with him therein, that we may be also Blessed with all Spiritual Blessings in heavenly Things in Christ Jesus!

1750 July 16 (Monday). Forbush116 begins to keep School at Mr. Eliezer Rice’s, and lodges here. Catechiz’d at Mr. Joslins. Carry’d my Wife with me and visited all that Neighbourhood except old Mr. Garfield; dining at Mr. Chamberlins. We were also well entertain’d at Mr. Joslins after the Exercise. May God add his Blessing to my weak Endeavours to promote His Kingdom and enable me rightly to improve the Benefits which I receive from his people!

1750 July 17 (Tuesday). Mr. Haven and I rode to Association Fast at Worcester. N.B. the people of Worcester desir’d there might be but one Exercise and therefore we kept the Fast ourselves at Mr. Mercury’s House a.m. at which Mr. Maccarty himself pray’d, and Mr. Morse preach’d on Exec. 3, 1 to 5. And p.m. we went to the meeting House where Mr. Morse pray’d, and Mr. Martyn preach’d on Luke 19.44. A very moving and profitable Discourse! May we never loose the Benefit of it! Mr. Haven and I lodg’d at Dr. Bricks, who is gone a long Journey to look out another place to live in.

1750 July 18 (Wednesday). Mr. Haven was examin’d and approbated by the Association. P.M. We return’d home, but N.B. Mr. Morse’s both yesterdays and to Days Conduct towards me with reference to Mr. Marsh117 of Narraganset Number 2 who Mr. Morse Says will not come to this Association because I am of it: and acquaints us that Mr. Marsh Spoke further to my dishonour. To which I reply’d I fear too warmly that His reproaches instead of being to my Dishonour I esteem’d Commendation, his Invectives Panegyrics. N.B. visited Captain Maynard who is confin’d by illness.

1750 July 19 (Thursday). Visited Mr. Eliezer Rice’s wife and carry’d Mr. Hows works, folio, Volume 2. Visited Mrs. Beeman who by a fall from an Horse, broke her Legg and is confin’d. Ebenezer and Joseph mow’d a.m. some Grass which Mr. Eliezer Rice lets us have.

1750 July 20 (Friday). They go and mow in the ministerial meadow.

1750 July 21 (Saturday). Mr. Stone, at Ministers Meeting, had desir’d me to change with him the next ensuing Lords Day, inasmmuch as he was going a Journey further; whereupon I depended on his coming here; but he went to Holden, and sent Mr. Davis118 to preach for him. I rode therefore to Southborough.

1750 July 22 (Sunday). Preach’d at Southborough a.m. on Mat. 16.26 the remainder of the Discourse which I began there the last time I preach’d there, and p.m. on Hebr. 9.27 former part. N.B. Judge Ward119 din’d with me and with me after the Exercises. N.B. I baptiz’d Two Children; Ruth, of Jonathan Newton; and Stephen, of Isaac Johnson. Return’d home in the Evening. Mr. Davis preach’d for me on Mat. 13.30 or number 40 and over.

1750 July 23 (Monday). Mr. Haven rode with Mr. Davis; the latter going to Boston, the former to his Fathers at Framingham. N.B. Anna Bradish here on Examination in order to her joining with the Church. Ebenezer and Joseph mowing and raking Hay at the Meadow. P.M. Mr. Edward Bass and his Cousen Henshaw from Leicester here.

1750 July 24 (Tuesday). Was called to Visit Mr. Abner Newton, who lies in a delirious State. Joseph brought home one Load of Hay which they mowed at Mr. Rice’s, and 2 Load of Meadow Hay. I read Prideaux’s Life of Mahomet.120

1750 July 25 (Wednesday). Read Stackhouse’s Abridgment of Burnets History of his own times.121 A.M. Joseph brought home 2 Load more of Meadow Hay. N.B. my wife, accompany’d by Mrs. Hephzibah Maynard and Mr. Eliezer Rice’s Wife rode to Mr. Abraham Knowltons and Mr. Joseph Miles’s; and sent her side Saddle with immediate success to be Mended by Peter Butler, in Shrewsbury. P.M. Molly and Lucy went to the Funeral of Prudence Winchester, who dy’d yesterday Morning. Mr. Winchester and his wife sent for me but I could not go. Colonel William Ward lodg’d here.

1750 July 26 (Thursday). Visited Mr. Abner Newton who is exceeding bad Still and incapable to Converse with me. Neighbour Eliezer Rice and his son reaped my Wheat a.m. and Ebenezer and Joseph mow’d etc. for him.

1750 July 27 (Friday). Ebenezer and Joseph work at the Meadow—but p.m., Ebenezer came and got in part of the Wheat.

1750 July 28 (Saturday). Joseph brought home 2 Load of the Meadow Hay. He got in the Wheat likewise. P.M. Mr. Haven came from Framingham. Rain Setts in p.m. so that they were beat off from work at the Meadow.

1750 July 29 (Sunday). Rain, Thunder and Lightning. Read Exod. 31 and though I have prepar’d a sufficient Number of pages on the subject I have in Hand, viz. the Beginning of the Sabbath, yet not having compleated the whole of what I design upon that Argument I thought it best to defer delivering any part of it; and the Instances of suicide in this Country, a. and p.m. increasing (to my Knowledge and Observation) Mrs. Rice also still under very great Temptations and strange assaults, I preach’d from Luke 11.4,122 latter part, repeating mainly my Expositions of Mat. 6.13 former part with alterations and additions. Read P.M. John 8 to number 25. N.B. it rain’d so exceeding hard that my Wife and a Number of my Family besides tarried at the Meeting House. But Esq. Baker invited Mr. Haven to dine with me at the House—which he did. By the Evening there fell so much Rain that there was a great Flood. But through the Merciful preservation of God no hurt done among us by the Lightning.

1750 July 30 (Monday). Anna Bradish further Examin’d by me. Mr. Jonas Warrin of Upton came and invited Mr. Haven to preach at Upton which he consents to do after some Time. Though it rain’d hard I rode over the See Mr. Abner Newton who was near his End. N.B. terrible Struggles. Convulsive Motions and Groans. May God grant me to be ready for my own Turn!

1750 July 31 (Tuesday). News came in the Morning that Mr. Newton dy’d about Midnight, last. Ebenezer and Joseph to the Meadow. Visited Neighbour Benjamin Hows sick Child.

1750 August 1 (Wednesday). We have Still so much to do at the Meadow that Joseph Bruce, though his Time agreed to be out, yet at Ebenezers Desire, I detain to work for me. Mr. Abner Newton was buryed. A large Funeral. He dy’d in the middst of his Days, being in his 42nd Year. I hope he dy’d in Christ, and in him I have lost a very valuable and generous Friend. The Lord Sanctify it to Me and to the Neighbourhood, who Seem sensibly to feel the Loss. Mrs. Newton requested that my Wife and I would return to her House after burying which we did and Supped with the Mourners, Bearers and the other Friends.

1750 August 2 (Thursday). Bruce helps us: also Mr. John Rogers with his Team helping us get home Hay from the Meadow. But by means of the late great Rains the Meadow was So soft that they were mir’d and much worried; they made but Two turns in the whole Day. That is, they brought home in all to Day by both Teams 4 Load. I rode over to See Mr. Woods and Oake, and talk with them about my Bricks for my intended House. They excuse themselves and plead themselves wholly off; So that I give the Affair up with them. I din’d at Mr. Martyns. He tells me Ensign Bartlet spake with a Post who last Night went down the Road for Boston, and gives an Account that a Number of Indians are designing to fall upon our Frontiers. Rains, thunders and Lightens before I came yet home; but soon increases to a terrible storm. A very sad, catching Time for Haying. But the Earth brings forth in Great Plenty.

1750 August 3 (Friday). Bruce works this one Day more for us.

1750 August 4 (Saturday). Bruce works for Neighbour Eliezer Rice. Much letting Weather. He return’d at Eve. He returns at Eve and keeps Sabbath here.

1750 August 5 (Sunday). Read Exod. 32. Preached a. and p.m. on Exod. 20.8. The Beginning of the Sabbath my wife and I rode up to Esq. Bakers and din’d there. It was Showery as it is almost every Day. I have heard that divers persons were So Tenacious heretofore of their opinion that the Sabbath begins in the Morning, that they were very impatient at but the Expectation, Shall I Should mention the Contrary. But I leave it unto God. P.M. read John 8 latter part.

1750 August 6 (Monday). Joseph Bruce left us. I am indebted to him 42£ 8/ old Tenor. P.M. Mr. Haven rode to Framingham. Neighbour Robert Cooks Wife here to be further Examin’d in order to owning the Covenant. Mr. Nathaniel Adams of Worcester here. Mr. Francis Whipple made me a Visit and tarried into Evening.

1750 August 7 (Tuesday). Forbush goes home, having lodg’d here.

1750 August 8 (Wednesday). Rode to Mr. Cornelius Biglo to induce him to undertake to provide stones for my Chimney but I try in Vain. Ebenezer worked for Neighbour John Rogers a.m. and Rogers for him with his Team p.m. They brought home the Two last Loads of Hay from the Ministerial Meadow. N.B. Molly to Mr. Martyn alone.

1750 August 9 (Thursday). Ebenezer mows at home. Molly and Lucy rode in the Chair to Mr. Twitchells. Mrs. Cook here about her son Roberts Affair. I gave myself to my Study (as much as I well could) the whole Day.

1750 August 10 (Friday). Mr. Chapin of Grafton here with a Question: What is the meaning of St. Paul to the Corinthians, 1 Ep. 7.14, last Clause. What kind of Holiness is that? Federal—or to more Legitimacy? P.M. Mr. Haven returns from Framingham.

1750 August 11 (Saturday). Hot: and has been so for several Days: but today it is remarkably so.

1750 August 12 (Sunday). Another very hot Day: but some Showers, with Thunder at Evening. A.M. read Exod. 33 of which I gave Some brief Expository Hints and preach’d on Exod. 20.8.9. The Sanctification of the sabbath in which Exercise I was somewhat long, but it was not sufficient to divide—and yet it had taken up my Time very much, to prepare this one Exercise, as I had many authors to consult upon it. Mr. Haven (by express Invitation) din’d with me at the Esquire’s. P.M. read John 9 and briefly expounded. And considering what a Day of Temptation it has been, and remains with a Member of our Church before mention’d, I repeated my Expositions on Mat. number 11.31.32,123 both the Exercises in one. For though the Exercise was longer and more worrying to me, yet it gave the more complete View of the Subject. But what will avail without the divine Concurrence? May God therefore add His Blessing. N.B. I gave the Congregation Notice of the Association Fast to be (God willing) next Tuesday at Marlborough.

1750 August 13 (Monday). Very Hot a.m. P.M. Clouds gather’d. Mr. Haven and I help’d Ebenezer get in Hay. Mr. Haven help’d in a second Load. Old Mr. Dodge came to see me, and walk’d with me to see Captain Maynard.

1750 August 14 (Tuesday). Association Fast at Marlborough (and I suppose at Rutland at the same Time). A pritty Hot Day, but Rain at Night. The Exercises were carry’d on thus, Mr. Smith pray’d (but I was so unhappy by several accidents on the Road as to miss of it, and arriv’d in singing Time, at meeting), Mr. Goss124 preach’d from Mat. 11.23. P.M. Mr. Gardner125 pray’d—and Mr. Loring126 preach’d on Hos. 9.14, last Clause. May the Lord accept the Offerings and Bless His Holy Word to our, and his peoples highest Good. Advis’d with the Association about Robert Cooks Case. Mr. Martyn my Company part of the Way in returning Home; but after he left me, Rainy and Dark, but not too late for my Family.

1750 August 15 (Wednesday). Rode to Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s and Lieutenant Tainters to forward the getting Timber for my House together—din’d at Lieutenants. Sent by him to Boston for divers Things—but next to No Money to be had any where. Mr. Bowman carrys the Two Plaits to the place. Was with Mr. Jonathan Forbush at his mill looking over the stuff—viz. Board and slitwork. At Eve when I return’d I understood that Mr. Martyn and his Spouse had been here—whereas I did not expect ‘em till Friday. Jeduthun Baldwin here to acquaint me with his Circumstances and when he can come to work for me. He lodg’d here.

1750 August 16 (Thursday). I rode out again about stuff—went to Hopkinton to Mr. Joseph Woods mill, and to Deacon Burnaps—din’d at the Deacons. Was at Kellys and Pierce’s. Ebenezer Carted Boards from Mr. Forbush’s Mill. 600 of Oake Boards of what I have of Mr. Forbush and 220 which I have of Mr. Daniel Miller and [blank] which I have of Mr. Samuel Harrington. I was at Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s as I return’d home, to get stuff for window Frames. N.B. Mr. Daniel Forbush brought a long, oake Cill.

1750 August 17 (Friday). Rode to Mr. Timothy Warrins to try for white Pine Boards—was at Mr. Beamans, whose wife is still confin’d by her broken Legg. Mr. Jonathan Forbush here and we reckon’d—what I had of him of Boards and slittwork comes to 9£ old Tenor. He desir’d and I gave him a note for 4£ and he gave me the other 5£ which was his Proportion according to the Rates (he says) towards what he thinks the precinct ought to do more than the have done towards my Building etc.

1750 August 18 (Saturday). Ebenezer got in the last of the Hay at home; and this finishes this part of his toilfull work at home.

1750 August 19 (Sunday). Mr. Samuel Haven began to preach. He preach’d for me all Day, on Colloss. 3.4. May God Bless his labour and make him an able Minister of the New Testatment! He and I din’d at Esq. Bakers; my wife and the rest of my Family went home.

1750 August 20 (Monday). Am now concern’d to set forward my Building; rode to Deacon Matthias Rice’s to Speak with Jeduthun Baldwin. I din’d at the Deacons. P.M. Jeduthun came to my House to look of Stuff for window Frames, but which would not do. Great Rains.

1750 August 21 (Tuesday). Measur’d out the House plot, in order to having the Cellar dugg. N.B. this was done by the motion of Samuel Bumpso. P.M. at the Funeral of Neighbour Benjamin Hows Child.127 At Eve came Mr. Edwards of Northampton, together with Revd. Mr. Tuthil of Bedford128 in the upper County, and Mrs. Martha Edwards, sister of Mr. Edwards of Northampton and they lodg’d here. N.B. Mrs. Edwards extremely lame.

1750 August 22 (Wednesday). It rain’d most of the Day. Yet the Company chose to proceed on their Journey. Mrs. Edwards left her Horse, and I supply’d her with my Mare. Ebenezer went with Mrs. Edwards lame Beast to Mr. Barns’s for his Advice and Counsel, as last Night Mr. Tuthil went to Captain Maynards for his. P.M. I preach’d the Lecture on Isa. 1.18.129 I was peculiarly fervent; and could not but be so—do earnestly beg it may be bless’d to my own Soul, and to all the Audience; especialy to Mrs. Hitty Rice who was at meeting. At Night Mrs. Edwards Mare (as it ought to have been writ before) is so bad that we fear whether she will live till morning.

1750 August 23 (Thursday). Lieutenant Tainter came over, at my Request, to see Mrs. Edwards’s Mare. Mr. Pratt came likewise to see her: I sent also for Captain Maynard who came, and tis concluded that She is hipp’d. Mr. Martyn having gone to Boston and left the Care of his Lecture with me I rode over—din’d there, and preach’d his Lecture on Isa. 1.18. Nigh Sunsett Mr. Martyn came home. As I return’d I visited the Two widows Tomlin.

1750 August 24 (Friday). Mrs. Edwards Mare notwithstanding our bathing, etc. I think Swells more and more. N.B. Neighbour John Rogers made Cyder at my Mill. At Eve came my Kinsman Mr. Daniel Needham from Norwich, having been Sick a long Time and Still remaining in a very feeble and weak State.

1750 August 25 (Saturday). Ebenezer making Cyder for ourselves.

1750 August 26 (Sunday). Read Exod. 35. Preach’d on Eph. 1.3. Administer’d the Lords Supper. Mr. Haven and I din’d at the Justice’s, my Kinsman and wife went home. Molly din’d at Deacon Newtons. P.M. read John 11 to number 30 and I preach’d on 1 Pet. 4.6, but us’d the Discourse on Eph. 5.14 from page 11 to 27. N.B. at Eve my Kinsmans Spiritual Conversation which may God be pleas’d to Bless, as well as what has Perform’d in the Day! N.B. Mrs. Edwards mare put into Captain Mainards Pasture.

1750 August 27 (Monday). I early rode up to Mr. Obadiah Newton130 and engag’d him to build my Chimney. Had Neighbour Eliezer Rice’s Mare, my Horse needing to be shod. Was at Sherman’s131 Saw-Mill for Stuff: at Mr. Hardys in Grafton. I din’d at Mr. Hutchinsons.132 He and his wife came with me as far as Major Willards133 in my returning home. Ebenezer had got out 4 Barrells of Cyder—and boyl’d Three of them.

1750 August 28 (Tuesday). Rode to Mr. Gales134 in order to his coming to view my Timber and he went accordingly towards Night, and Saw that it was so chiefly there that he agrees to begin the framing next Thursday. P.M. Mr. Martyn and his Daughter here. He goes over with me to See what I am about to do in preparing to build. My son Ebenezer very much laid by, with pain in his Back by Reason of a Strain in lifting the Beam at the Cyder Mill last week, and now getting Cold.

1750 August 29 (Wednesday). Samuel Bumpso with me at the place of the design’d Cellar, and after Squaring and Setting out, he began to digg. I rode to Mr. James Bradish’s and din’d there, but he was not at home. Rode over to Elijah Warrins to Speak with Bradish, where I found him, and he engages to come to my work. N.B. One son of Mr. Samuel, another of Mr. Phinehas Hardy came to the digging before noon. I provided a Dinner for Samuel Bumpso at Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s, but not knowing of the Two Hardys coming, did not provide for them. P.M. came Charles and Abner Rice and Phinehas Maynard from Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s. At Eve Solomon Baker and Samuel Bumpso with a Number more came and dugg—Mrs. Rice (Ebenezers wife) encouraging their coming and treating ‘em for it.

1750 August 30 (Thursday). Messrs. Gale and Bradish began to Frame my House. Samuel Bumpso and Martyn Pratt dugg at the Cellar. N.B. Early in the Morning I went to Noah How and Elijah Rice and got them to go into the Ministerial Lot and hew’d one Post. Noah had my Team to carry it over, but could not perswade him to do any more work to Day, though we wanted Hands very much. I catechiz’d at the Meeting House. At Eve Visit Mr. Lewis Brigham’s sick Child. Mrs. Edwards return’d from Boston, accompany’d by Mr. Tuttle and Mrs. Martha Edwards.

1750 August 31 (Friday). Mrs. Edwards having rid an Horse from Baldwins at Sudbury which belongs to Mr. Joseph Child at Worcester. At my Frame were Messrs. Gale and Bradish, Mr. Grow and Mr. Simon Tainter junior, and p.m. Mr. Harrington. N.B. No body at the Cellar today. Mr. Haven return’d.

1750 September 1 (Saturday). Messrs. Harrington and Twitchell dugg at the Cellar. Messrs. Gale, Bradish, Grow, Tainter junior, Sam Hardy, old Mr. Charles Rice, and p.m. Lieutenant Tainter, at the Frame. Mr. Haven went to Upton. Prepar’d part of an Exercise, but found I must throw it by: Such were the Impediments of this Week—and I am oblig’d to improve some former Preparations.

1750 September 2 (Sunday). Read Exod. 36. Preach’d from 1 Pet. 4.6, former part and us’d Sermon 3 on Eph. 5.14. My wife din’d with me at Esquire Bakers. P.M. read John 11 from number 30 and carry’d on the Same Subject in preaching as in the Morning from 1 Pet. 4.6, answering the objections against the propriety of preaching the Gospel to them that are Dead—see Sermon on Eph. 5.14, Page 34 to 44. Mr. Haven preach’d at Upton.

1750 September 3 (Monday). Messrs. Gale, Bradish, Grow, Tainter junior, Harrington—work’d at the Frame. I attended the Burying of Mr. Bezaliel Smiths Child. P.M. came Mr. Haven. P.M. Thomas Whitney of Shrewsbury work’d at the Frame. Ebenezer under bodily indispositions and very unfit for Business—but a considerable Number of Hands digging in the Cellar at Eve, he was with them.

1750 September 4 (Tuesday). Gale, Bradish, Grow, Tainter junior, old Mr. Charles Rice, Mr. Nathaniel Whitney, David Batherick, John Rogers and Jonas Warrin of Upton wrought at the Frame. P.M. Samuel Bumpso at the Cellar. Justice Baker carted stones, six Load. Mr. Benjamin Fay and Mr. Eleazer Williams dugg in the high way and in divers places in the Interest of the Esquire. I rode to Mr. Daniel Forbush’s135 and to his Father, and they gave me Encouragement to begin the Stoning of the Cellar tomorrow Morning.

1750 September 5 (Wednesday). See Natal. I went not over to the Workmen, but sent over as usual which was daily Beer and Cyder, and a bottle of Rum; some Days Bread and Cheese for Bait; and p.m. dinner for Two or Three, the rest bringing for themselves. Deacon Forbush came to the Cellar, but I think did not work. P.M. his son came—but neither did he much, the digging was not completed, where their work was to be: Yet there was Samuel Bumpso and Nathan Whitney at Digging. At the Frame, there were Whitney, Messrs. Gale, Grow, Bradish, Tainter, Batherick, old Mr. Charles Rice, Mr. Nathaniel Whitney and Neighbour John Rogers. N.B. Samuel Bumpso wrought to Day on Deacon Newton’s account. N.B. Ebenezer and Mr. Eliezer Rice’s son Silas carted Stones and Mr. Pratt Sent Cornelius Cook to digg them. [The following appears in the Natalitia for September 5, 1750.] I endeavour’s to Spend the Day in a Separate and religious Manner—Seriously reflecting on my past Temper and Conduct—especially since this Day Twelve Month, and whilst I gratefully recognized the Divine Benefits, do penitently confess and bewail my own bareness and vileness, my negligence and unfaithfulness, which I would earnestly beg of God, in His infinite and adorable Mercy to forgive, through a great Propitiation! My manifest unfaithfulness, together with finding so very little of good Motions or Dispositions in me, fill me with deep and distressing Concern about my Spiritual Condition, But desire to referr all to the boundless Mercy and Goodness of God through Christ, hoping that my principal Desire and aim and longing is to be Conform’d to the Blessed and Holy Nature and will of God. Special Errands in Prayer were, my undertaking to Build another House and the Dividing the Association.

1750 September 6 (Thursday). Deacon Forbush and his son Daniel at Stoning the Cellar, and Samuel Bumpso, employ’d by me, diggs in the Cellar and tends Mr. Forbush with Stones. At the Frame Messrs. Gale, Grow, Bradish, Tainter, Charles Rice, Jonah Warrin, Bowman, Harrington, Bond, Ephraim Bruce. Since it is concluded upon to raise tomorrow, I very earnestly entreated every one who was at the Work to notifie all the Several Quarters of the Parish which they liv’d in. I made a Business especially of going to Captain Maynards to invite him and all his that could come. Captain was gone to Brookfield—but I invited Stephen and Joseph Winchester. I took all the pains I could to Send every where, that none might be excepted. I rode over to the other side of the River, Spake and Sent word to Every One, that way: particularly both Sent and went to Mr. James Maynard and to Mr. Seth Rice, and Spake with them both. N.B. Mr. Haven with me, and we rode over to Mr. Martyns. Ask’d him and his Spouse—and brought over Mrs. Molly to our House.

1750 September 7 (Friday). Deacon Forbush a.m. and his son Daniel at the Cellar. Deacon Newton tends ‘em. At the Frame, Messrs. Gale, Bradish, Grow, Tainter, Batheric, Charles Rice, Nathaniel Whitney, Bowman, Harrington, Jonah Warrin, John Rogers, and [blank] who all gave their Work of this forenoon. Mr. Martyn and Mrs. Molly din’d with us, Mr. Haven went briskly to Mrs. Martyn and brought her over (Mr. Martyn having come without her). P.M. My Neighbours rais’d my New Frame and we sung part of Psalm 127. Scil. one Stanza and Psalm 128 (second meetre) except the last half stanza. Sundry Neighbours Sent and brought Cheese, Cake, Wheat Bread, etc. which with Some Apples Pyes which my Wife provided, made up our Entertainment. Mr. Martyn pray’d and Mr. Haven return’d Thanks. N.B. Mr. Gaskitts Son, Seth, came and requested me to go this Evening to their House to See Two Children who were dangerously Sick of Throat Distemper and (though I was oblig’d to leave all my Affairs to my wife and son and to take leave of my Company and Comforts in returning to my Seasonable Rest after Such a Day of Care and Fatiegue) yet I Cheerfully rode over to ‘em. Return’d home though late at Night. Mrs. Molly Martyn Still with us. Thanks to God for the Favours and Salvations of this Day!

1750 September 8 (Saturday). Bright good Day. Ebenezer mows a little more Rowing. Mr. Haven to Upton. I rode to Grafton. Mr. Hutchinson not ready. He expected a Line from me. He borrow’d an Horse having Lent his own. It all made him late to Westborough.

1750 September 9 (Sunday). Preach’d at Grafton on Ps. 110.3 all Day. Mr. Hutchinson went from my House this morning over to Mr. Martyn and according to agreement preach’d for him: Mr. Martyn for me. N.B. at Grafton p.m. there was Some interruption in the Time of Worship; Thieves (it was Said) had begun to rifle Mr. Phinehas Rice’s House. After Meeting many persons went in Search of them. Mr. Hutchinson return’d home, though it was Somewhat late when he arriv’d.

1750 September 10 (Monday). Mr. Hutchinson rode with me to make Some Enquiry after five of my Cattle which lye about Still in that Neighbourhood. We went to Charles Brigham Esq., from thence I went to Captain Drurys136 and Mr. Aaron Hardys, as I return’d home. Was at Mr. Amsdens at Eve to get Mr. Gale to come to Work for me in Covering my House, which he consented, at length, to, if he could hire any man to Work for him in his Husbandry.

1750 September 11 (Tuesday). I rode over to the New House hoping to meet Lieutenant Hezekiah Ward, but he came not. Went to Mr. Harringtons and din’d there. Thence to the Burial of a Child of Mr. Eleazer Whitney.137 Thence with Lieutenant Ward (who came by that time) to view a piece of Swampy Land east of my New House which he says is common Land. We did no more than view it. Ebenezer taken very ill with Pain in his Bowels, vomiting, etc.

1750 September 12 (Wednesday). Ebenezer very ill yet. Messrs. Grove and Simon Tainter work at the New House in putting up Short Studds. Samuel Bumpso proposes to digg me a Well, which is necessary to be done before my Chimney can be built.

1750 September 13 (Thursday). Laid out the Well. Samuel begins to digg—upon the following Terms. He says he must have five pounds If he digg Eight foot wide, and digg till he come to a good Spring. If we Shall not agree about the Spring, that he Shall Choose a Third, a majority of which Shall decide the Matter—That Samuel Shall find himself Diet; but I promise to allow him a Dram for each Day. Samuel to find Windlass and Crotches; and I am to find Tub, Chains and Rope. To these I consent. My wife rode over to Mr. Martyns a.m. I rode to Mr. Levi Brighams Child p.m.—went to Deacon Rice’s,138 to Ensign Bartlets,139 and to Mr. Martyns at Eve.

1750 September 14 (Friday). My Neighbour Thomas Frost at work for me p.m. Ebenezer being Still unable to work. Esquire Baker brought down my Cattle (which had run in Grafton) from Esq. Brighams140 who had put ‘em into his Pasture. N.B. Sam Bumpso.

1750 September 15 (Saturday). Samuel Bumpso at the Well. Mr. Frost again p.m. Lieutenant Tainter brought home from the woods, a Steer which he had kept all winter, and driven up to Sommers for Summering; and this as well as the keeping of Several Cattle for me last Winter was I suppose Gratis. Ebenezer Somewhat better.

1750 September 16 (Sunday). Read Exod. 37, 38 and 39 Chapters, a Verse or Two of Each with some Remarks on Repititions—preach’d on Exod. 20.10. Din’d with my Wife at the Esquire’s. P.M. Read John 12 and from Ez. 18.32, repeated sermon on Eph. 5.14, and hope it may not prove unuseful. May God add His Blessing, on which all depends!

1750 September 17 (Monday). Messrs. Samuel and Phinehas Hardy, and Benjamin How began to work on the Roof of my New House, to board and Shingle. Sam Bumpso at the Well, a great and Solid Rock appears in the Well. I visited Rufus Hardy who has had a Sore on his Knee for about Seven Weeks. N.B. Mr. Haven came to us again.

1750 September 18 (Tuesday). Messrs. Samuel Hardy and How on the roof and Mr. Phinehas Hardy a.m. I got Mr. Wyman141 of Shrewsbury to come and blow the Rock in the Well and he Split it to pieces. He blow’d also a Rock in the Cellar, Sam Bumpso assisted all Day. Ebenezer Shingling p.m. N.B. They got the south side of the Roof done by night.

1750 September 19 (Wednesday). Messrs. Samuel and Phinehas Hardy, How, Daniel How (who often heretofore work’d at Day Labour for me) work’d upon the Roof; as did Ebenezer also. Samuel Bumpso with help from the Carpenters got out of the Well the Great Pieces of the Rock which was blow’d yesterday and, thanks to God, without Dammage. P.M. Sam came from Dinner to work but little before Night. I rode over to Deacon Forbush142 just at Eve to See if he could come to underpinn the New House. At my return home found my Brother Samuel Parkman and with him Mr. Holland143 of Boston on their Journey home from New-London. Frost this Night.

1750 September 20 (Thursday). Waited on my Brother and Mr. Holland as far as Marlborough. Din’d at justice Brighams.144 In returning call’d to see Eliphalet Adams and his wife, and at divers of their near Neighbours—having heard that Said Adams was to have a Separate-preacher to be at his House on Some Date appoint’d and preach there. I therefore warn’d and Caution’d them against so great Evil; and found them ready to Comply (verbally) with my Counsel: and Adams assur’d me there was not a direct appointment though something had been Said to one Joseph Ward, late of Marlborough about Mr. Hovey145 of Mill River his coming, but now promis’d me he Should not come. At Night very Cold. My son Thomas came up from Concord.

1750 September 21 (Friday). Messrs. Samuel and Phinehas Hardy closing my new House with Boards. Samuel Bumpso at the Well. Then came also Mr. Dunlop to digg in my Cellar, besides whom there were three Youths, viz. Jonathan Grout and a Son of each of foresaid Hardys to digg in the Cellar. Messrs. Bezaleel Smith and Eleazer Pratt, each with a Team Carting Stones for the Cellar, whilest Thomas Whitney and Isaac Tomlin (this last was sent by Mr. Reuben Maynard) dugg Stones for me. And all but the Two Carpenters and Mr. Dunlop brought themselves Dinner. But Some time before Night it rain’d; Yet I desire to submitt to the will of God under the Disappointment.

1750 September 22 (Saturday). Rain over, Sam was at the Well and had Nathan Whitney and Charles Rice junior to help him. Mr. Haven to Upton and Molly with him to See Bekky Warrin.

1750 September 23 (Sunday). Read Exod. 40. Preach’d on Rev. 10 former part. My Wife and I din’d at Justice Bakers.146 P.M. I read John 13, and preach’d on the Same subject that I was upon in the forenoon, but from another Text, Scil. Lev. 19.30, and by means of my continual avocations at the New House Business I was oblig’d to repeat part of what I formerly deliver’d from that Text, viz. from page 14 to 20. N.B. a Very Cold Day for the Time of the Year. N.B. Gave Notice of the Association Fast to be next Tuesday at Hopkinton.

1750 September 24 (Monday). Samuel at the Well just before noon, and he had got Phinehas Maynard to help him. Visited Mr. Daniel Forbush’s Daughter Sarah who lyes at her uncle Jonathans sick of the Throat Distemper. N.B. Mr. Harrington ask’d me to dine at his House, but I refus’d that I might hasten along with Mr. Daniel Forbush to see his Daughter—by which means I miss’d of dining to my Hurt—Yet they did ask me to Eat both at Mr. Jonathan Forbushs and at Mr. Bonds, but both under great Disadvantages So that I did not accept thereof. At Evening Mr. Haven return’d home with Molly from Upton by the Way of Grafton.

1750 September 25 (Tuesday). Mr. Davis147 of Holden and Mr. Haven accompany’d me to Hopkinton Association Fast. Found only Mr. Loring148 there. Nor did there come any other Minister. Mr. Barrett149 pray’d and Mr. Davis preach’d on Hab. 3.2. P.M. Mr. Loring pray’d and I preach’d on Ps. 110.3. Mr. Davis to Framingham. Mr. Davis and I came home. N.B. Some Water in the Well.

1750 September 26 (Wednesday). Mr. Davis having din’d with us return’d to Holden. I rode to South East Corner of the Parish and visited old Mr. Hudson and his Wife at Mr. Ithamar Bellows: and old Mr. Garfield150 and his wife. Was at Mr. Joslins151 about Stones. He is willing to give me Stones, but does not appear very forward to help me in digging and Carting them. Whereas divers men who are nearer have offer’d me Stones gratis, but the Difficulty is at this busy Time of Year, to get them to the place where they are to be us’d. Mr. Benjamin How and Ebenezer boarding the New House. Sam Bumpso and Mr. Pierce make a Frame to digg in, in the well.

1750 September 27 (Thursday). My Son Thomas left us to go to Concord again. Billy rode with him as far as to Deacon Jonathan Rice’s in Sudbury, to bring back the Mare, on which he rode. Visited Rufus Hardy152 who is dangerously Sick. Din’d there. P.M. attended the Funeral of little Sarah Forbush daughter of Mr. Daniel Forbush. She was almost nine years of age: a very agreeable forward Child. Bury’d from Jonathans where she had liv’d for Two Years. Mr. Benjamin How and his Brother Noah, together with my Son Ebenezer boarding the New House. Mr. Pierce and Sam Bumpso digging at the Well. N.B. It had cav’d in, before they got a Frame, about 4 feet. They have got out a great part of it to Day.

1750 September 28 (Friday). Rain Storm. Under a great Disappointment having striven much Yesterday for men to digg in my Cellar, that Mr. Forbush might finish Stoning it, and might do the underpinning of the House and get ready for Mr. Newton to be about the Chimney—and I had provided Two, viz. Benjamin Whipple (of Hardwick) and Aaron Warrin. Messrs. Benjamin and Noah How p.m. at boarding the New House, and Ebenezer with them. Sam Bumpso diggs an Hour or Two before night in the Cellar. At Eve Benjamin Whipple and his wife with their Children here. We took up 3 Hives of Bees. A great Frost this Evening.

1750 September 29 (Saturday). Sam Bumpso having nobody to work with him at the Well, work’d at digging the Cellar. Messrs. Benjamin and Noah How boarding the House. Ebenezer work’s there also part of the Day. Mr. Bond Cart’d 3 Load of Stones. Lieutenant Tainter, Mr. Nat Whitney, Mr. Harrington, Aaron Warrin and [blank] dug Stones in Mr. Jonah Warrins Lot, and at Grind-Stone Hill. I attended the Funeral of Rufus Hardy. Mr. Haven came to my House and I went to Upton for him. Lodg’d at Captain Hazzletons.153

1750 September 30 (Sunday). A great Frost last night, and the Ground much frozen this morning. I preach’d at Upton on 1 Thess. 1.10 a. and p.m. Din’d at Captain Sadlers154 (the Captain gone to Church at Hopkinton). P.M. I baptiz’d Elizabeth Warrin, Daughter of Elijah and Rebecca Warrin; on her Mothers Right, being Member of the first Church in Cambridge. Was at their House in the Eve, and lodg’d there. N.B. Mr. Haven preach’d for me on John 3.36.

1750 October 1 (Monday). I went from Mr. Elijah Warrins to Mr. Beriah Rice’s—Mr. Marshal Bakers—Mr. Jonas Warrins, Mr. James Bradishs, Mr. Dunlaps, Mr. Gashets155 and Mr. Chaddocks156—to Lieutenant Tainters. N.B. Sam Bumpso and Phinehas Maynard work’d at the well a while, but it growing too heavy for one person to draw at the Windlass, they broke off. Dr. Breck157 at my House while I was from Home. N.B. We have had [blank] Bushel of Winter apples of old Mr. Maynard.

1750 October 2 (Tuesday). Deacon Forbush and his Son at the Cellar. Mr. Frost, Levi Jummers and Charles Rice junior from about 10 o’Clock a.m. Two of them in the Cellar digging and tending the Masons; and the other of them with Samuel Bumpso and Phinehas Maynard who work’d all Day at the Well. A.M. oblig’d my self to run up and down to get the Hands together and tend upon them. Water increases in the Well.

1750 October 3 (Wednesday). Deacon and his Son at the Cellar, Neighbour Frost, Levi Jummers and Charles Rice, junior from about 10 o’clock a.m. Two of them in the Cellar digging and tending the Masons; and the other of them with Samuel Bumpso and Phinehas Maynard who work’d all Day at the Well. A.M. oblig’d my self to run up and down to get the Hands together and tend upon them. Water increases in the Well. [Last two sentences same in October 2 and 3.]

1750 October 4 (Thursday). Mr. William Pierce came to stone the well and Sam Bumpso to tend him, but they judg’d that the Water was not deep enough, though they Spend much Time in drawing; and I assisted what I could a.m. but Charles Rice junior came p.m. N.B. Mrs. William Pierce p.m. would fain have prevented her Husband, and not without much difficulty perswaded to give way to his coming tomorrow to stone the Well. Was in an uncommon Manner perplex’d for want of Money—after divers fruitless Endeavours borrow’d some of Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s wife which I pay’d to Mrs. Pierce, wife of Mr. William Pierce. They began to Stone towards Night. Mr. Charles Rice got a Cart Load of Moss for the Well.

1750 October 5 (Friday). Mr. Pierce and Samuel Bumpso Stoning the Well. Joseph Grout junior help’d them. N.B. Two foot of Water in the Morning. N.B. The Well 22 feet Deep. Mr. Haven and I rode over to Mr. Martyns and din’d there. I went especially to take Measure of his Entry and stair Case and Fire places. Return’d about 4 p.m. Ebenezer has been Carting Apples etc. No corn gather’d yet. But we suffer’d great Dammage by the cattle; of them 12 in Number broke out of the Cow Yard last night—were in the Corn, among the Apples, Cabbages etc. N.B. the Weather has been very Cold for several Days.

1750 October 6 (Saturday). I am much afflicted with Toothach. Bright but cool weather. Jonathan Smith helps Ebenezer Thrash Rye. Mr. Haven to Upton p.m. Nobody at work at New House or Well but Mr. Daniel Forbush at the Cellar.

1750 October 7 (Sunday). Much afflicted with Toothach. Had a sorrowful Night of Pain. Drew a Blister but it did not give me Ease. I went to Meeting through much Difficulty, and through Divine Goodness went through the Exercises. Read Levit. 2 and gave Some account of that Book and the Contents of the first Chapter but enlarged on the Meaning of the second, preach’d on Lev. 19.30 repeating in part what I formerly deliver’d on that Text, from page 20 to 22, nigh the Bottom; but with great additions on the Hand of Reading the Sacred Scriptures. None of my Family besides me din’d at the Esquires to Day. P.M. read John 15, and preach’d on the fourth Commandment but us’d the Same Text as the Morning, and us’d likewise the passages in those Sermons which are in page 22 near the Bottom, to page 25. Many Strangers, especially from Southborough among us at the Worship.

1750 October 8 (Monday). Expected Masons but they came not. I provided Two Hands, Mr. Frost and Thomas Whipple to tend ‘em but was oblig’d to employ ‘em in throwing out the Cobbling Stones out of the Cellar, which may do for the Well; and p.m. to digg Stones for the well. I was much indispos’d, yet made a shift to ride over. Found no Mr. Pierce at the Well. Jonathan Smith thrashes with Ebenezer. A.M. they gather Corn. P.M. a Council of 3 ministers Sit at Shrewsbury to Day. Revd. Door,158 Martyn159 and Harrington.160 P.M. receiv’d a Letter dated September 29 with Clerk of Study, from Mr. Edwards161 of Northampton. N.B. the Town met at the North Side to see what to do with those who took down the Meeting House. Lieutenant Tainter here, with Resentments of high Seasoning concerning the meeting. At Eve Lieutenant and Mr. Daniel Forbush here when they were returning from Town Meeting. Town did nothing about the old Meeting House. I was in much pain, which Mr. Forbush Seeing, acquainted me with a Remedy used by him with observable Success, which he communicated the Knowledge of; and which though very Disagreeable, yet the more clearly Methods (Blister etc.) us’d by me, failing, and my affliction great, I yielded freely to—viz. Cow dung fir’d in Hoggs Fatt—and lay all Night with my Face on’t Despicable as it seems; it gave me Relief. D.G.

1750 October 9 (Tuesday). My Wife and Daughter Molly rose early and rode to Worcester to Dr. Bricks to visit them before they leave these parts of the World. I had a comfortable Day, through Gods Goodness, though I was pritty much confin’d to the House. Dispatched Clark on Study and made a few Remarks thereon; having begun it Yesterday. Towards night interrupted with Company—Samuel, Ruth and Hannah Hicks from Cambridge. Jonathan Smith at work with Ebenezer in cutting up Corn.

1750 October 10 (Wednesday). Jonathan Smith helps Ebenezer Still, in getting in the Harvest. It was So cloudy and dull weather that though I was much eas’d of my Pains yet I was feeble and did not go out.

1750 October 11 (Thursday). Expected Mr. Pierce to Stone the New Well. Sent Ebenezer over to tend him but he came not—so Ebenezer after throwing Some of the Cellar Stones to the Well return’d home. Heard afterward that Mr. Pierce came and found no Body to tend him and therefore went home.

1750 October 12 (Friday). Sent Billy on the Mare to Worcester with a Letter to Brother Samuel Breck about his Servant Girl but without Effect, he not accepting my offer for her. Ebenezer rode over to Mr. Pierce but to no purpose. Jonathan Smith work’d here getting in Corn. Towards Evening came home my Son Thomas from Mr. Goold of Concord, with a Letter from Mr. Minot.162 I thank God my son has been carry’d out, through the Agreement and that no Evil has fallen upon us to Grieve us. Three Sons and Two Daughters, with Patty Pannell husk Corn in the Barn this Eve, and Except Molly, they Stay till Eleven o’Clock.

1750 October 13 (Saturday). [No entry.]

1750 October 14 (Sunday). Read Lev. 3, and preach’d on 1 Cor. 11.20, administering the Lords Supper. My Wife and I din’d at the Justice’s. P.M. read John 16, and preach’d on 1 Pet. 46 latter Part. At Eve (blessed be God) I had some peculiar Sense of Divine and Eternal Things. O that they might abide and increase!

1750 October 15 (Monday). I rode over to my New House. Mr. Daniel Warrin to tend on Mr. Pierce. At length came Mr. Pierce to go on with stoning the Well. Got Mr. Charles Rice to send a son till I could get another Hand to tend Mr. Pierce. By 11 o’Clock sent Samuel Bumpso to the Work. Mr. Obadiah Newton came to build my Chimney. P.M. my Son Ebenezer tended Mr. Newton. Mr. Jeduthan Fay working at the high way Sent for his Man and Team about 3 or 4 p.m. to come and draw stones which they had dug in the high way, and it prov’d a great kindness to me: especially as he wrought with his Team Gratis. At Merchant Rices at Eve with Mr. Obadiah Newton, Fay, etc.

1750 October 16 (Tuesday). Mr. Newton and Forbush at the Cellar Wall which is the Foundation for the Chimney. Jonathan Smith works there, at the Cellar and Well, Mr. Pierce being at the stoning the Well. Sam Bumpso tends him. Yet want another Hand. Jonathan Smith So oblig’d to help at the Well that the Masons are forc’d to tend themselves a great Part of the Time. As for me I rode about and waited and waited on the Work at Cellar and Well from Early Morning till into Evening—was especially at Mr. Timothy Warrins and talk’d with the widow Sarah Forbush163 who is going to marry Josiah Walker,164 an unbaptiz’d person,—he desir’d to talk with me about Deacon Burnaps165 being offended with him—and said he had acknowledg’d his Fault to the Deacon. N.B. Sent 12£ old Tenor to Mr. Daniel Gookin Bookseller at Boston, by Mr. Batheric. I din’d at Ensign Millers.166 We are so out of Meat in the Family that I bought a Quarter of Beef of him. N.B. Mr. Bogle167 of Sudbury there. Call’d to see Mr. Daniel Forbush’s Children Sick of Canker. Lieutenant Tainter sent his Team with Stones by William Dunlop.

1750 October 17 (Wednesday). Mr. Newton (who dines at his sisters, but lodges at various Places in the Neighbourhood) and Mr. Forbush at the Foundation of the Chimneys Still—are now got even with the Ground. Jonathan Smith tends ‘em. Mr. Pierce stoning the well, Samuel Bumpso and Thomas Whipple tend him. Well caves in frequently upon the work. Deacon Newton and Cornelius Cook cart Stones for the Well all Day. Neighbours Harrington, Tainter and Charles Rice are carting Stones for the Chimney. I was among them all Day (except Dining Time)—provided dinner for only Mr. Pierce to Day. At Neighbour Eliezer Rice’s at Eve, His Wife seems to be under strange Disgusts but I know not as yet what. Sent my Son Thomas p.m. to Worcester to get Bricks for Oven and Topping Chimney, but he could get none. Am full of various perplexitys. Ebenezer making Cyder.

1750 October 18 (Thursday). Very Rainy. No body at Work. Held up p.m. Catechiz’d at Meeting House. N.B. at Mr. Eliezer Rice’s at Eve: and Mrs. Rice taxes me with being worldly.

1750 October 19 (Friday). Messrs. Newton and Forbush. Jonathan Smith tends. Mr. Pierce stones the Well about 2 foot above Ground—Clears out the well—asks me 7£ Old Tenor. Afterwards he took less. Ebenezer works there, and Mr. Joseph Green junior and Abner Whipple digg and Cart stones—with Mr. Edwards Whipples yoke of Oxen. Mr. Obadiah Newton came to our House at Night.

1750 October 20 (Saturday). Mr. Newton at the Chimneys. Mr. Forbush also; and Jonathan Smith to tend ‘em. I rode over to Mr. Martyns, and thence to Bolton. Din’d at Mr. Benjamin Baileys. Proceeded to Mr. Robert Fosgits168 for Brick for my new Ovens and for topping out my Chimneys. Mr. Fosgit not at Home, but his wife went with me to the Kiln where I picked out 600 and some odd Bricks, and Two Dozen of Tile. The Bricks at 7£ old Tenor per Thousand, The Tile 1 Shilling a piece. Agreed with Mr. Bailey to cart ‘em to his House and Mr. Goddard to cart them Home, to my own. Return’d at Eve to Mr. Martyns. Mr. Stone169 there, to Change with Mr. Martyn. I lodg’d there.

1750 October 21 (Sunday). Mr. Martyn in the Rain to Southborough. Mr. Stone came and preach’d here a.m. on 1 Pet. 4.18. P.M. on Eph. 5.16. He read Levit. 4, John 17. I preach’d for Mr. Martyn a. and p.m. on Jer. 6.16. I return’d home at Eve.

1750 October 22 (Monday). A very Cold windy, freezing Day. Mr. Newton came to work, and Jonathan Smith to tend him; but the Mortar was So froze and the Cold so increasing that they were scarce able to stand it. They built up some Defences against the Cold wind yet it was too Cold. It was so broken a Day, they both threw it in, and went home before Night. Mr. William Goddards Sons brought me 600 of Brick and 2 Dozen of Tile.

1750 October 23 (Tuesday). Windy, but somewhat more moderate weather. Mr. Newton and Mr. Forbush at work, and Ebenezer tending. Association Fast at Bolton, but I could not go by reason of the work which is doing at my new House, and expect Huskers at Night, but it was put by. Lieutenant Tainter proceed according to Law with sundry persons for their Rates and had Deacon Newton with him. I charged Lieutenant to use Moderation with Mr. Hezekiah Pratt because of the Affliction he is under by his wifes sickness. They went to Mr. Barns and Mr. Pratt. N.B. A Sour Message to me from Mr. Barns to go to him and settle accounts with him before Night or he would send an Officer. I wrote him an answer which my wife carry’d with a 3£ Bill old Tenor to pay him for an Ox which he had bought for me at Boston last Spring when I let him have my Horse to go there; and for which he had never paid me, nor had ask’d me for his Money, but had concluded to Set it off in the Rates.

1750 October 24 (Wednesday). Mr. Newton and Forbush at the Chimneys. Ebenezer tends. Hear that Lieutenant Tainter170 with assistance of Deacon Newton171 etc., Strain’d upon Mr. James Maynard, and actually laid him in Jayl. I rode down to Mr. Daniel Warrins, Mr. Joslins, etc. to get some stones dugg and Carted. Was at Mr. Bradish’s, at his Morning Prayer. Din’d at Mr. Joslins. P.M. at the New House desir’d Rody Smith to ask Mr. Barns to come and husk to night. A Number were ask’d, but there were but six only who came, scil. Neighbour Benjamin How and his Brother Daniel, Neighbour John Frost and Samuel Forbush, Cornelius Cook and John Pratt. Lieutenant Eager here at Eve, with a message from Mr. Edwards of Northampton to send the Lame Mare to his House tomorrow.

1750 October 25 (Thursday). Mr. Newton and Forbush at the Chimneys—Jonathan Smith tended. Joseph Rice came and offer’d to help me to Day. Thomas and he carted and sledded stones about the well. I rode to Lieutenant Tainters to acquaint him with Mr. Edwards of Northamptons Message; and he sent the Mare to Lieutenant Eagers. P.M. Expected Hands to level the Banks from the New House to the Well, but there came no one but Ebenezer Forbush. I fear’d Mr. Pierce (who was at the projecting this and appointing the Day) would not come; and therefore I expressly Sent for Mr. Biglo to help in raising up the Wall of our Well, and he and Ebenezer Forbush work’d till Evening. Mr. Nathaniel Whitney informs me that Mr. William Williams of Weston was dismissed from his people by the Advice of a Council last night. A most shocking Event in the Course of Divine Providence! The Lord Sanctifie it to all! N.B. My Neighbour Pratt greatly disturbed with me for Lieutenant Tainters proceeding with him but most unjustly, because I besought him on Pratts behalf. At Evening Edwards Whipple here. A.M. Neighbour How assisted Ebenezer in getting 3 Mantle Trees, and p.m. Ebenezer help’d him dig potatoes. N.B. Mr. Daniel Warrin and Mr. Ithamar Bellows brought 6 Load of Stones.

1750 October 26 (Friday). Ebenezer Carted the 3 Mantle Trees which were hew’d yesterday—and tended Mr. Newton and Forbush at the Chimneys. I visited the Sick—viz. Two Children of Mr. Eleazer Whitney, 3 of Mr. Daniel Forbush, and the Widow Woods. Din’d at Mr. Jonathan Forbush’s. P.M. at Mr. Hezekiah Pratts that his wife might shew her mind to me for Lieutenant Tainters proceeding with her Husband. N.B. Mr. Whipple and Mrs. Hannah Maynard came in and were witnesses of my Discourse with Mr. Pratt and his wife; who (all) manifested Satisfaction. Mr. Haven return’d to us. Joseph Winchester and Jonathan Smith husk’d with my sons at Evening till 10.

1750 October 27 (Saturday). Mr. Haven left us again, and is to preach at Medway tomorrow. My Condition very afflictive, while I have so many Difficultys, to conflict with so many avocations and Disturbances from almost all Quarters. May God Sustain and help me! Whilst I was so grievously born down, especially with regard to my preparations for the Sabbath approaching (which is a Day to be observ’d by me throughout my Life) Mr. Barrett came at Evening Expecting to change with me tomorrow. I rode over to Hopkinton and lodg’d at Mr. Barretts.172

1750 October 28 (Sunday). This Day Twenty Six years ago I receiv’d holy ordination. Blessed be God for His Longsuffering towards so unprofitable and unfaithfull a Creature! and O that the Lord would pardon, through the mediation of Jesus Christ, my great defects and miscarriages! May he be pleas’d to quicken me by His Spirit, assist me, Support and strengthen me for his Mercys Sake! I preach’d at Hopkinton a. and p.m. on Jer. 8.4.5. May God grant Success, that those serious, weighty Things may duely affect us all! and especially be profitable to my own Soul! Mr. Barrett din’d at Esquire Bakers. My wife not at meeting. Mr. Barrett read Levit. 5, omitted reading p.m. We return’d home at night. I lodg’d there.

1750 October 29 (Monday). I early return’d to Westborough. Call’d at Mr. Biglo’s. N.B. His Fray with Mrs. Pierce which I did something to compose. Mr. Newton and Forbush at the Chimney. Ebenezer and Sam Bumpso tend them. Was oblig’d to visit Mr. Jonathan Forbush’s Child Jonathan who is very sick. N.B. have heard that Mr. James Maynard, Eliezer Rice and Joseph Rice went to Church at Hopkinton yesterday—and that to Day Revd. Roger Price is come over to visit in Westborough. Mr. John Rogers makes Cyder at my Mill. Neighbour Rogers husks with my sons in the Barn this Evening. N. B. I went to Neighbour Barns’s to talk with him, but his wife said he was gone to Marlborough. P.M. Molly and Lucy rode in the Chair to Colonel Wards173 at Shrewsbury.

1750 October 30 (Tuesday). Mr. Newton, Mr. Forbush and Jonathan Smith, together with my son Ebenezer at the Chimneys. I rode over to the New House. I rode up to Captain Bakers, to get him to Cart Some more Stones who says he will go tomorrow accordingly. N.B. I call’d in at Mr. Pratts with Mr. Abraham Knowlton; and there was Mrs. Whipple to See further into the Discourse of Mr. Pratt of late, but he was not at Home. P.M. Mr. Barns call’d here. He denys he Sent me such a Message as on the 23 yet Deacon Newton and Lieutenant Thomas Forbush have testify’d that they heard him. Neighbour Rogers making Cyder here. Thomas thrashes Wheat. Molly and Lucy return’d from Colonel Wards, where they lodg’d last Night. Mr. Joslin and Mr. Jonathan Bellows dug the Stones at Mr. Joslins to Day, while the Teams were going—3 Turns apiece. At Eve came Lieutenant Tainter and brought me in Money Notes and including Several Small parcells of Money which he had before paid, in Old Tenor Value 62£. N.B. his son Benjamin came from Sommers with his new Marry’d Wife. Rain at Night.

1750 October 31 (Wednesday). Messrs. Newton and Forbush at the Chimney, my Son Thomas and Jonathan Smith tended ‘em. Lieutenant Tainter sent us a Quarter of Mutton at Evening besides which there was not anything Sent us for the approaching Thanksgiving. But I thank God who inclin’d him to Send; and that we had in the House wherewith to make decent Provision, were but our Hearts in a Suitable Frame. Which may God with whom is the Preparation of the Heart, grant to us!

1750 November 1 (Thursday). Thanksgiving. How numberless, and how vast the divine Benefits! O for a Truely devout and grateful Sense of them and that we might be able to attend to the Obligations we are under to our glorious Benefactor! Rain’d hard especially in Meeting Time and when we came home from the worship. Text was 1 Thess. 5.16. May God grant the Joy of this Day may not go over with the Day, but that we may long protract it—nay rejoice evermore, both in this world and the future!

1750 November 2 (Friday). I went early to the New House. Mr. Newton and Forbush came to the Chimneys. Mr. Newton brought Sam Bumpso to tend—and Ebenezer was there also. The Parish meet to consider my Support—grant the Same as last Year, but do it chearfully, which gives me the much greater pleasure. May God enable me to improve to His Glory what he is pleas’d to vouchsafe! At Eve rode down to See Mr. Daniel Warrins Son Daniel who is sick.

1750 November 3 (Saturday). Messrs. Newton and Forbush. Samuel Bumpso helps my Son in tending them but I was not over to See what they are doing to Day. My Son Thomas (Mr. John Rogers affording Some assistance, and dining here) finished the making up of Cyder, from our own Apples—but Neighbour David Maynard has brought a parcel of Apples from his Sister Tomlins, which are partly for our Supply with Cyder is[?] not making enough ourselves to fill our Casks.

1750 November 4 (Sunday). On Jer. 6.8 (the Subject I design’d for October 28th). May God be pleas’d to add his Blessing! Din’d at Justice Bakers. Snow’d very fast, so that the whole Earth appears mantled for Winter. I think I remark’d on Lev. 5 and 6th and John 18, read. (This was writ sometime after).

1750 November 5 (Monday). Was early at the New House. Messrs. Newton, Forbush and tended as before, but by reason of the Cold make Slow Work. Rode over to Mr. Jonathan Forbush’s to see his Sick Children. Widow Newton gave me Alpheus’s digging and Carting Six Load of Clay: and this afternoon he goes with a Yoke of Oxen and assists Ebenezer in digging and Carting 3 Load more. Towards Eve I visited Mr. Beeman who is very bad. Was also at Mr. Warrins to See Daniel—in returning home I call’d at Mr. Bathericks.

1750 November 6 (Tuesday). Was early at the New House. Messrs. Newton and Forbush—Ebenezer and Sam at the Chimneys. The Weather more Moderate. A.M. Cloudy and Cold p.m. P.M. I visited at Mr. Eliezer Rice’s, who though the last Time I was there parted with me in very good Friendship, yet has Seem’d to be in very great Disgust—by his absenting himself from our Meeting Two or Three Days—had warm Talk at first—but were calmer afterwards, and he walk’d with me to Mr. Whipples and back. Parted also in peace. His Disgust was rais’d from a misapprehension of my Discourse the last Visit.

1750 November 7 (Wednesday). Messrs. Newton and Forbush at the Chimneys. Ebenezer lyes by great part of the Day. Thomas goes to the New House and by the help of Samuel Bumpso tends the Masons. Towards Evening Set out to visit Mr. Beeman: but when going heard he dy’d in the forenoon. Nevertheless I proceeded to visit the widow and the distress’d Children. Was likewise at Mr. Daniel Warrins, whose son Daniel dyed also this afternoon. When I came home in the Evening found Mr. Prentice174 of Easton here and lodg’d with us. Martha Pannell return’d here from Mr. Rice’s.

1750 November 8 (Thursday). Messrs. Newton and Forbush at the Chimneys. Ebenezer though not Well, and Thomas tended. Mr. Prentice left us. N.B. Lieutenant Bruce175 here before Mr. Prentice went away. N.B. Mr. Hutchinson176 sent his Desire (By Letter last Night) to me to preach his Lecture to Day: but I could not go, being oblig’d to look after my workmen, and to wait for a message concerning the Funeral of Mr. Daniel Warrin; not knowing but it would be to Day; Mr. Beemans being also appointed to be tomorrow, So that I Should have little Time to prepare for the Sabbath. Nor could I well go because of Lame Leg, which was bruised yesterday, and I suppose have got Cold in it. Besides that my Horses are smooth, whilst the Roads are slippery. At Night Nigh 11 o’Clock came Mr. Harrington to call me, Mr. Bowman being apprehended near his End. I went with him. Got there about midnight—found him alive, and a little reviv’d, but very low—discours’d and pray’d with him and them present. Lodg’d at Ensign Millers. N.B. Revd. Mr. Curtis177 (who marry’d a Bass) having attempted to go to Poquoag Ordination but without Success, call’d here in his way to his aunt Buckminsters at Framingham.

1750 November 9 (Friday). Early in the Morning went from Ensign Millers to Mr. Bowman, who was further reviv’d. Discours’d and pray’d with him—and went to my New House where Messrs. Forbush and Newton were at work: and my two sons with Cornelius Cook tending them. P.M. at the Funerals of Mr. Beeman178 and Daniel Warrin junior which were carry’d on thus, we went to the House of the late Mr. Beeman and pray’d there. (N.B. his only Son Abraham is taken Sick and so bad he keeps his Bed) then I hasted to Mr. Warrins, and both the Corps were Sett in the Yard on their Biers, and I pray’d again there. A Sorrowful Sight—both the hoary Head and the blooming Youth going to the House appoint’d for all the Living. After the Funerals, my Wife (who was with me) and I rode to Mr. Eliezer Rice’s. Lieutenant Ward, who had survey’d 5 acres and 36 Rods of Swampy Land, being there, with the Plan of it. N.B. the Masons having rais’d my Chimneys as high as the Roof, break off for this Season: and after so much Toil we heartily rejoice.

1750 November 10 (Saturday). Rain. About 10 at night my Wife went to Mrs. Ann Maynards179 Groaning and return’d not till after we were gone to Meeting (this) Next Day.

1750 November 11 (Sunday). I read and gave (as I usually do) some observations upon Levit. 7. Preach’d on Lev. 19.30 repeating from my sermon on that Text page 25 to the End of 31 with alterations and omissions and additions. Din’d at Justice Bakers. P.M. Read John 19. Preach’d on Exod. 31.13.

1750 November 12 (Monday). My sons make Cyder of Apples brought from Widow Tomlins180 by Mr. David Maynard. At Captain Bakers Request I pray’d with his Company and din’d at Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s with the Officers. After which the Captain accompany’d me in a visit to Mr. Bowman who is still sick. N.B. Proprietors Meeting at Marlborough. Sent a Plan of 5 Acres and 36 Rodes of Land lying South of Chauncy Meadows and west of the Cedar Swamp to be accepted; but it was objected against by Neighbour Richard Barns as what he Should claim a part of. N.B. I sent the plan by Neighbour Eliezer Rice. N.B. Mr. Martyn here and din’d with my Wife while I was with the Officers. He brought the Answer of the Association to my Question Sent to them respecting the Baptizing of the Children of Justice Charles Brigham.

1750 November 13 (Tuesday). Mr. Maynard had Two Barrells and we have Two, of the Cyder made from his Sister Tomlins Apples, but were it not so Cold weather there had Perhaps been another Barrell. At Eve Mr. Benjamin Tainter181 brought his wife to visit us. Their Brother Bowker182 and sister Elizabeth were then come from Sommers. They (except Bowker) supp’d here: as did Neighbour Obadiah Newton (who this Eve, plaster’d my Study Jaums anew; and pointed the Jaums in the Kitchen) and Samuel Bumpso. Reckon’d with Mr. Newton who tells me he must be paid for nineteen Days, 20/ old Tenor per Day.

1750 November 14 (Wednesday). Mr. William Rogers makes Cyder here, and dines with us. Mr. Larkin Williams183 of Marlborough likewise. He tells me that Lieutenant Beeman lyes dead. A very observable providence! P.M. I visited Mrs. Beeman (widow of the late Eleazer) and her son Abraham who is Sick, but grows better. Visited also Two Children of Mr. Adams which are taken sick. At Lieutenant Bruce’s in the Eve. Rode home accompany’d by the widow Smith, alias Devereux.

1750 November 15 (Thursday). Went down to Mr. Stephen Maynards to view a large Quantity of White Pine Boards there. P.M. Church Meeting on the Affair of Robert Cook. There were but Eleven Members came, and those very late. We adjourn’d to Monday next. My Son Thomas went to Concord to fetch up the rest of his Cloths etc. My Legg is full of Smart and gives me great Trouble.

1750 November 16 (Friday). With much ado Study at all[?], my Legg So very bad. At Eve Brother Hicks here.

1750 November 17 (Saturday). Brother Hicks to Sutton. Thomas return’d from Concord. Dr. Gott call’d and dress’d my Legg. Dr. Smith also came here, by Billys Means at Mr. Whipples. P.M. Captain Maynard here, having been to Boston, and bought sundrys for us.

1750 November 18 (Sunday). So bad with my Legg in the Morning that it was with Difficulty I rode to Meeting. Omitted Reading publickly a. and p.m. Preached a.m. on Exod. 31.13. My wife and I din’d at Esq. Bakers. P.M. I preach’d on Zech. 1.4 repeating Sermon on Ps. 119.60 to page 13. In returning home at Eve one Felly of a Chair Wheel broke out and oblig’d me to stop at old Mr. Maynards till an Horse was brought for me.

1750 November 19 (Monday). We kill’d a Steer of 5 past-21 score. Mr. Jonathan Rogers assisted. P.M. Church meeting according to adjournment, exactly at 2 p.m. on the Affair of Robert Cook. Both he and his wife declare their Innocence. After all that we heard from them and the witnesses, the Number of Members of the Church who declar’d themselves unprepar’d yet to vote, the Church Meeting was again adjourn’d to Thursday next after Lecture. At Eve my Wife and I at Lieutenant Tainters at the Marriage of their Daughter Eliza to Mr. Stephen Sadler. N.B. Mr. Fish (who preaches at Upton) and Captain Sadler there. Those last came home with us and lodg’d here.

1750 November 20 (Tuesday). Snowy morning but the Earth soon appear’d again. Captain Sadler and Mr. Fish to Upton. P.M. old Mr. Maynard here. Anna Bradish with her Relation.

1750 November 21 (Wednesday). Ebenezer went to Bolton. Thomas a.m. carts wood; p.m. husks. William to Mr. Britons with a Piece of Cloth to be full’d for Riding Hoods. My wife visits Mrs. Ann Maynard. My Legg very full of Smart, especially after the dressing: and continues very painful till Night. Fear I have got Cold in it, or else it might be too plentifull use of the precipitate.

1750 November 22 (Thursday). A Storm of Snow. Mr. Cushing came and preach’d my Lecture. I did not go out by reason of my Lameness which is very bad. Mr. Cushing in my Name mention’d the deferring Anna Bradish’s Admission into the Church till Lords Day notwithstanding the Vote at the Church Meeting—and the Adjournment of the Church Meeting till next Monday come Sennight. Ebenezer return’d home at late Evening.

1750 November 23 (Friday). Mr. Benjamin How and Ebenezer laying Floor in the Stable. Thomas sledded Wood part of the Day. William to Mr. William Goddards Mill. My Legg somewhat easier. Dr. Smith voluntarily called to see me at Eve. We have Some Discourse about his Affair which was laid before the Council at Shrewsbury last Year.

1750 November 24 (Saturday). It grows very Cold. My sons variously employ’d—some bank the House.

1750 November 25 (Sunday). My Leg is Still So Sore that I know not how to go out. But the Consideration of the State of the Congregation if I Should not, and especially of the Church if I Should not administer the Lords Supper on the Day appointed therefor pressing me I resolv’d to do what in me lies, and accordingly under took with dependence on the Goodness of God to carry me through. I omitted the public Reading to Day also, both a. and p.m. Preach’d on 1 Cor. 11.20 latter part. N.B. Before the administration of the Sacred Supper was taken suddenly with Such a Laxness in my Body that I was oblig’d to go out of the Meeting House. When I return’d I proceeded to the administration without admitting Anna Bradish, but my wife came near and whisper’d it to me—upon which I stopp’d, and took her into the Church before I pray’d and then went on. My wife and I din’d at Captain Bakers. P.M. preach’d on Zech. 1.4, delivering the Chief of the rest of the Discourse begun last Lords Day p.m. The Day was raw and uncomfortable, but guarded myself what I could against the Cold and hope I have receiv’d no Harm.

1750 November 26 (Monday). The Parish met on the Affair of Treasurer Ebenezer Maynards not paying Revd. Mr. Price184 of Hopkinton Mr. James Maynards Rates. Mr. Job Cushing din’d here. Billy brought 46 pounds of Salt Fish from Mr. Jonah Warrins. Ebenezer work’d part of the Day for Mr. Benjamin How.

1750 November 27 (Tuesday). Storm of Rain. At Eve came Mr. Haven. Patty Pannels father also and lodg’d.

1750 November 28 (Wednesday). Storm of Snow. Mr. Pannell return’d—but Mr. Haven with us. To Day My Neighbour Ebenezer Maynard Treasurer for this Parish, was Sued by Revd. Roger Price of Hopkinton for the Rates of Mr. James Maynard, before Colonel Chandler at Worcester.

1750 November 29 (Thursday). Mr. Haven, after dinner, went to Framingham. My son Thomas much taken off from Business by Ague in his Face and Teeth, both yesterday and to Day.

1750 November 30 (Friday). Billy as he was cutting Wood at the Door, cut his ankle. The wound was Somewhat Cross-wise, and bled very much. It was in the Forenoon and when his Brothers who were able to do any Thing were gone from home, Ebenezer to work for Mr. Rogers, and Thomas to Mr. Goddards Mill. We try’d Puff Ball to Stopp the Bleeding, but to no purpose. After some Time, the Blood running fresh Still, we took off the Bindings, and fill’d the Sore with Sugar—but neither did this Succeed. We Sent about Noon for Mrs. Hephzibah Maynard. Both the Captain and his Wife came. It Seem’d to be Stanched for a while, but flow’d again. He had now bled So much that we were much Concern’d at the Event. Thomas was groaning with the Tooth Ach and wanted to go to Dr. Smith to get his Tooth drawn out. I therefor hasten’d him, though it was past Evening, to bring the Doctor to Billy. We having also try’d scrapings of Tann’d Leather and Scorch’d Cotton, and still fresh Puddles appear’d. N.B. Several Times when it was open’d, the Blood Spurted out as in Phlebotomy. While Thomas was gone and tarried long, our Fears arose higher, for Billy had lost so great a Quantity of Blood that he began to turn pale and we did not know but that it was still running. I ardently committed him and his Case to God who is a present Help in Time of Trouble. After a while the Blood ceas’d, as we conceiv’d, nor did any more appear throughout the Night. Blessed be God for his Sparing Mercy! Thomas did not come till past Nine o’Clock, and no Doctor with him; but got his own Tooth out, or rather part of it, for it broke in the Jaw. Molly is also in great Anguish with Tooth ach So that with my own Lameness, we have no Small Trouble in the House. But would humbly wait on God. My wife watch’d with Billy.

1750 December 1 (Saturday). Billy Somewhat chearful though we dare not let him Stir for fear of his Bleeding again. We let him lie in the Blood, which we now hope is Stopp’d. Lieutenant Bruce here, and upon his asking a Note to the Collector I read him what I wrote of our Agreement last April 11, respecting the Cook Island; and he consenting to it, I gave him a Note for Twenty Seven Pounds and Ten Shillings old Tenor. P.M. Ebenezer rode to Dr. Gotts185 on Billy’s Case.

1750 December 2 (Sunday). Dr. Gott being ill, his son Benjamin came and dress’d Billy’s Leg, which (through Gods Mercy) was effected without any more bleeding. In the Public Service (to which I went somewhat late, 7 minutes after Eleven when I got here) read Lev. 8th. Preach’d on Ps. 23.4, a. and p.m. Din’d at Esq. Bakers. N.B. Walk’d up, rode back. N.B. Astonishing Accounts of Mr. Benjamin Lawrence’s186 cruelty to his Boy Seem confirm’d. P.M. read John 20. Of both the Chapters which we read, I gave some brief Exposition.

1750 December 3 (Monday). A pleasant Day—The little Snow which has lain a while on the Earth wastes away, and the Roads dirty and hollow. Billy bears the Dressing his Leg very well, is Sensible of but very little Pain. Ebenezer and Thomas husking p.m. Church Meeting. About 23 or 24 present. Robert Cook was not there; nor his Father etc. The whole Church seem ready to Vote. The Vote was written and read over and over. Whether Robert Cook and his Wife Should enjoy Special Privileges of the Gospel in this Church without an acknowledgement. No Hand was lifted up for it. I said upon it, that they all seem’d to be of one mind—viz. on the Negative. Had any one any Thing to offer? There was a profound Silence. The Meeting clos’d with Prayer and Blessing. Was after Meeting, at Deacon Newtons, Mr. Ebenezer Rice’s. Mr. Pratts and old Mr. Maynard’s.

1750 December 4 (Tuesday). My Wife and I rode p.m. to Mr. Martyn’s. Mr. Martyn was gone to the Funeral of a Child of John Oakes, and return’d not till Eve: but we found there Revd. Mr. Trowbridge187 of Groton, Rev. Mr. Goss and his wife, Mr. Caleb Richardson188 and Mr. Marritt189 of Cambridge. We tarried till the moon was up and Supp’d there. N.B. the Story of Mr. Benjamin Lawrence was true but in part. This Eve the select men of this Town meet in order to Relieve the Boy, as they were the Guardians of the Child and had bound him out to Mr. Lawrence.

1750 December 5 (Wednesday). Benjamin Gott here and dresses Billy’s Legg. P.M. I rode to Mr. Amsdens190 to make him a Visit since the Death of his two Brethren, Beemans, and to see his son Abijah Gale who has been Sick. I was also at Mr. Adams’s because of the late Sickness of their Children, and call’d at Mr. Twitchells in my returning. At home was Mr. Daniel Forbush by appointment to reckon. I am to pay him for 23 Days work at 18 shillings but he found himself his Dinners.

1750 December 6 (Thursday). Somewhat Rainy and misty—but I rode over to the private Meeting at Deacon Forbush’s and preach’d there; the rather because Mrs. Mary Steward is confin’d by Illness there. Text John 12.26. May we all enjoy that Blessedness to enjoy the presence and Gracious Rewards of Christ!

1750 December 7 (Friday). Mr. Maccarty191 and Mr. Wellman,192 came from Mr. Beans193 Ordination at Wrentham, were here and din’d—Sent home to Mr. Cushings Father Calmets Dictionary194 Volume 3. My Sons finish’d husking.

1750 December 8 (Saturday). Mr. Cushing came so near night that I could not Sett out till near sunsetting—passing by Mr. Daniel Warrins after sundown, and they Still at work in shingling the House, I besought ‘em to break off, expressing my Regret for my own riding so late. They answer’d that they would soon break off. N.B. Mr. Cushing had stopp’d to visit Mr. Daniel Hemingway who was Sick at Doctor Smiths. I call’d there also at Mr. Cushings Desire—lodg’d at Mr. Cushing.

1750 December 9 (Sunday). Rainy Day. Preach’d at Shrewsbury a.m. on Rom. 8.7 from page 19 to the End, and p.m. on Ps. 110.3. After the Eve came on and family Exercises over, Mrs. Cushing walk’d with me to Mr. Artemas Wards195 who had invited me after meeting to come to see him. N.B. Dark and rainy.

1750 December 10 (Monday). At Dr. Smiths—Mr. Heminway better. I return’d home. My wife informs me that Mr. Cushing rode away from the Meeting House Yesterday in order to go to Marlborough, to her great Surprize, at the Funeral of a base-born Child, at Mr. Francis Whipples. The Mother is from Boston: I ask’d her what her name was, but she desir’d to conceal it. At Eve Lieutenant Tainter here.

1750 December 11 (Tuesday). A number of Young Men, chiefly the religious Society, came and chopp’d Wood. They were Daniel How, Merodach Smith, Phinehas Maynard, Moses Warrin, Joseph Grout junior—and Mr. Cornelius Biglo and his Son, very kindly came with them. My son Ebenezer Chopp’d with them and Thomas carted part of the Day. Sent a Letter to Mrs. Stoddard at Boston with 14£ of money by Mrs. Mary Maynard (James’s Wife) to buy my Daughter Lucy a Riding Hood.

1750 December 12 (Wednesday). Ebenezer a.m. fits up an House for the Doves, which were lately presented me, and p.m. Swingled Flax. Thomas to mill a.m. Cut Wood at the Door p.m. Billys Sore begins to digest a little. P.M. I went to Mr. Hezekiah How’s and got him to go with me to view my North East Bounds, which border on him and on the Ministerial Lot and on Mr. Richard Barns. N.B. To Day Mr. Solomon Wood was here and settled our Accounts. I ow’d him 12£ 13 Shillings Old Tenor and gave him a Note to Lieutenant Tainter. Mr. Wood informs me likewise of the Death of the Widow Thurstons196 Daughter Experience.

1750 December 13 (Thursday). Ebenezer and Thomas at the New House, clearing Ground. P.M. Molly rode with me to the Funeral of Experience Thurston. N.B. She was almost 19 years of age, and after a few Days illness fell into Fitts and dyed Suddenly.

1750 December 14 (Friday). A Storm of Rain which rais’d the Floods.

1750 December 15 (Saturday). Ebenezer and Thomas variously employ’d about the Cattle, Firing etc. Mrs. Mary Maynard brought up a Camblet Riding Hood from Mrs. Stoddard at Boston. Wrote on Exod. 20.12 chiefly this Evening and Night till 12 o’Clock.

1750 December 16 (Sunday). Read Levit. 11 with Some Expository remarks. Preach’d on Ps. 23.4. Din’d at Esquire Bakers. My wife at Mr. Williams. P.M. read Acts 1. Preach’d on Exod. 20.12.

1750 December 17 (Monday). Rose a little after 4 o’Clock. Ebenezer and Thomas went over to clearing at the New Place. Mr. Ebenezer Rice cutting Ship Timber at Mr. How’s—and desires to cutt in my Lot also.

1750 December 18 (Tuesday). Ebenezer and Thomas Clearing at the New Place.

1750 December 19 (Wednesday). Ebenezer assisted by Neighbour Ebenezer Maynard kill’d a Sow for me which had never had any Piggs and which weigh’d 224. Clearing p.m.

1750 December 20 (Thursday). Mr. Martyn and his wife din’d with us—and p.m. he preach’d the Lecture to my Young People from Ps. 100.3. My Wife made a Discovery to me this Evening which gave me some surprize.

1750 December 21 (Friday). Cold uncomfortable weather.

1750 December 22 (Saturday). Very raw.

1750 December 23 (Sunday). A cold raw Storm. I doubted much in the Morning whether it was my Duty to go to Meeting. I concluded to try; and found that though is was tedious and difficult, yet I could undergo it. There was a considerable assembly, which gave me fresh Encouragement. Of Levit. 12 I read only the first 10 and proceeded to Some Remarks. Preach’d on Exod. 20.12. My wife din’d with me at the Squire’s and Martha Pannell at Deacon Newton’s. P.M. I read Acts 2 and preach’d on Exod. 20.12. But this Exercise was little other than a Recapitulation of what I had deliver’d and repeated Some Time ago, of the Dutys of Children and Parents, from Eph. 6.1.2.3.4. But I made many alterations, transpositions and necessary Corrections etc.

1750 December 24 (Monday). My Wife rode with me to visit the Two Widows Tomlin: and thence we went to Ensign Rice’s. N.B. The little Boy was there which Mr. Lawrence of Bolton had So Severely whipp’d. His Back was Stripp’d for me to See it. There were bad Signs all over it and Two or Three large and plain Scarrs. We went to Mr. Martyn’s, and tarry’d to Supper with them there begin a pleasant Moon to come home by.

1750 December 25 (Tuesday). I hear that Several of my Neighbours, particularly Eliezer Rice and his Wife are trapesing over to Hopkinton to keep Christmas there.197 Were any of them rationally and Sincerely Enquiring and Examining into the Grounds of the Controversie between the prelatists and the Dissenters it were a far different Case; but they manifest only a Spirit of unsteddiness. May God grant ‘em a Sight and Sense of their Folly and Childishness! P.M. Mr. Martyn and Mr. Smith of Marlborough made us a Visit and tarried till Evening. My Son Thomas is gradually providing him Tools etc. for setting up his Trade. His prospering herein is a Matter that lyes much upon my Mind from Day to Day. May God afford us the wisdom which may be profitable to direct!

1750 December 26 (Wednesday). Storm of Rain. Forbush198 begins to keep School at Captain Maynards and lodges there.

1750 December 27 (Thursday). Molly and Lucy undertook to walk over to Mr. Martyn’s. Mr. Joseph Haven (accompany’d by Deacon Burnap of Hopkinton) made us a Visit. Paid me 15£ and 2 shillings old Tenor on account of his Sons lodging here. He acquainted me with Some of his Difficultys with Mr. Reed, which rather increase and advance. Tarried to supper but return’d to his Brother Burnaps.

1750 December 28 (Friday). Ebenezer got out Flax. Mr. Frost broke it, and he Swingl’d. At Eve Ebenezer and Thomas rode over to Mr. Martyns to bring him their Sisters, which they did though it was very Cold.

1750 December 29 (Saturday). They Clear’d at the New Place. Brother Samuel Breck199 here and din’d with us. He keeps School and practices at Sheffield.

1750 December 30 (Sunday). Very Cold. Read a few verses in the Beginning of Lev. 13, and a few Remarks thereon: preach’d on Prov. 29.15, repeating Sermon on Eph. 6.4 from page 21 to page 27. My wife and I din’d at Esq. Bakers. P.M. Read Acts 3. Preach’d on Gen. 17.18 and repeated Sermon on Eph. 6.4, from page 27 to the End. N.B. I had formerly repeated the other parts of these Discourses on the Dutys of Children and of Parents, but had not these Sermons but now Mention’d, and therefore I chose to finish the Repitition of these rather than omit them although I had prepar’d on the Duty of Magistrates for one part of the Day, and in other parts of my Time I gave myself as much as I could to Reading, viz. Mr. Reyners Rules of the New Creature,200 Travels of Cyrus by Ramsay,201 Popes Essay on Man202 etc.

1750 December 31 (Monday). My Sons are clearing at the New Place. I rode over to them to Lieutenant Tainters—visited at Mr. Nurse’s,203 he having been several Times absent from Meeting. At Eve Mr. Williams and Mr. Whipple here. I perceive there is much Strife among the People on the Affair of the Law-Suit depending between Revd. Mr. Price and this Precincts Treasurer for Mr. James Maynards Rates—21 Persons having Sign’d against the Proceedings of the Precinct at their last Meeting, at which they voted that their Treasurer Should Stand Mr. Price. I am very much griev’d for this Contention, as it very much frustrates the End of the ministry among a people. O that the God of infinite Mercy would grant us wisdom, grace and Peace! We finish this Year with these Sorrowful Reflections and with many Fears of what we are about to meet with unless God Himself be pleas’d to interpose and prevent.