1766 January 1 (Wednesday). Verily I may say God is kind and gracious to me! I would give Praise and Glory to His Name, for His most unmerited Goodness and Favour to me, a most unworthy Creature. O how His Patience and Long suffering are extended to Me, though so unprofitable and Provoking to Him! Our Company (See the Close of the last Year) left us after Breakfast; and my Daughters, Sarah and Suse, went in the Sleigh with them. But I relucted, because it began to Snow and I feared the storm that would ensue. They proposed indeed to go no farther than Capt. Maynards where they were all to dine. P.M. I had good Opportunity for Reflections etc. etc. etc. At about 3 o’Clock came Breck through the Storm from Townshend, having Sat out at about 3 in the Morning. But the Journey was almost too hard for him, the storm having increased and the Cold very Sharp; on Foot and with a Pack. At Eve came Billy also: but much worried also. God be praised who Sustained them! The storm grows very Severe. The Girls tarry at Capt. Maynards till better Weather. May God pity all that are exposed!
1766 January 2 (Thursday). The Lord’s name be praised who protects and has Supplyed us! For the storm lasts and is very tedious. It continues through the Day. We have both Billy and Breck to help John, both as to the Creatures and Wood; which we have enough of at the Door. At Eve it clears, but the wind is sharp. At my preparations. Mr. John Forbes from Brookfield brings a Letter from my Son Forbes, about Kendal Land upon our plain etc. and delivers me his Burnetts Theory of the Earth.
1766 January 3 (Friday). Billy and Breck with us. Except that Billy went to Capt. Maynards to assist his Sisters in returning home. Deacon Tainter going to Boston, dines with us. Am closely engaged in preparations.
1766 January 4 (Saturday). [No entry.]
1766 January 5 (Sunday). Exceeding Cold. Omitted public Reading by reason of the extremity of the Weather. Preached a. and p.m. on that Solemn subject contained in Isa. 6.9.10, which may God be pleased to bless to me and all that heard! Messrs. Fessenden and Cushing and Mrs. Maynard dined here. Old Ensign Miller dyed this Morning. At Eve my Wife reading in Mr. Webb on the 4 last Things, particularly [punishments?] in Hell. It was very affecting and I added a warm Exhortation to divers of my Children who were by. O that God would please to impress us [deeply?] and effectually!
1766 January 6 (Monday). Rev. Mr. Pain of Sturbridge came from Sutton this extreme Cold Morning, and was at Breakfast with us. Wrote by Mr. John Forbes to his Uncle Eli. Sent by him Brightlands Grammar to John Potter: And an Ax to Mr. Wymans to be new laid, again.
1766 January 7 (Tuesday). My wife and I attended the Funeral of Ensign Miller so far as to go to the House and pray there, and then returned to Mr. Tainters (who waited on us there with his sleigh) where we dined. Then Mr. Tainter transported us in like manner to old Mrs. Grouts where I preached on Rom. 13.11, which may God graciously Succeed! Then we visited at Mr. Whitneys. And Mr. Tainter was So good after all, as (he and his Wife) to conduct us home.
1766 January 8 (Wednesday). Mr. Tainter, with his Father and his wife, came with their Sleigh again; and waited on us to the Funeral of Mr. Seth Rice junior his Wife, who dyed in Childbed. Mr. Martyn prayed. At Eve came Master John Morse and brought with him Dr. Thomas Stearns of Worcester and they lodged here.
1766 January 9 (Thursday). Billy and Breck make an Ox sled. P.M. Mr. Fessenden.
1766 January 10 (Friday). Cousin Trask of Sutton, and others with him, here. Breck laying that part of the Garrett Floor which is behind the Chimney. In the Evenings he trims out a great Number of Ax Halves. Finish the Reading Mr. Pool’s Annotations Vol. l.
1766 January 11 (Saturday). Mr. Roger Bruce of Brookfield here—dines—opens to me Spiritual Troubles which he labours under. Breck on Garrett Floor.
1766 January 12 (Sunday). Very rugged Cold Day. Omit publick Reading. Preached a.m. on Isa. 6.9.10. P.M. Repeated with Additions and New Application sermon on Jer. 13.23. Messrs. Fessenden and Cushing dined here.
1766 January 13 (Monday). Mr. Abraham Beemans youngest Child being very bad, I visited there: and prayed with them. Visit also widow Judith Bellows; Kezia Snow; also prayed there. At Mr. Joseph Gambells. Ezra Baker being ill and in great pain, visit and pray with him.
1766 January 14 (Tuesday). In Billys sleigh and one of Mr. Nurse’s Horses with my Mare, my Wife, Billy, and I rode over to Mr. Martyns—dine—return. May God prosper Such Visits: and pardon our Defects!
1766 January 15 (Wednesday). Billy and Master Cushing wait on Sarah and Suse to Marlborough. Memorandum. I Sent Dr. Swifts Vol. 1 and 2 to Mr. Henry Barns, of whom I had borrowed them. Visited Mr. Ezra Baker who grows very ill. Prayed with him. N.B. Talk with Messrs. Warrins at Mr. Timothy’s chiefly concerning joining with the Church and attending the Communion. My Children return at Eve in the Rain. Deacon Tainter here. Master Cushing lodges here.
1766 January 16 (Thursday). Breck lays the Floor of the Closet under the Front stairs. Mr. Abraham Beeman here. His Child dyed this Morning.
1766 January 17 (Friday). Sent to Boston by Deacon Tainter. I wrote to Brother Parkman. John sent 8 or 9 fowls, and 1 Partridge. Billy to Medway.
1766 January 18 (Saturday). Returns. I attended the Funeral of Mr. Abraham Beemans youngest Child. I was very free in speaking at the House for the awakening of the Hearers. My Heart was much moved in Exhorting and praying. Mr. Moore came from Brookfield.
1766 January 19 (Sunday). Mr. Moore preached for me a. and p.m. on 1 Pet. 1.21. I read Isa. 7 and Luk. 10 from v. 17 to the End. Besides Mr. Moore, Mr. Fessenden and Cushing dined here. They were here after meeting. Master Cushing stays at Eve and lodges here.
1766 January 20 (Monday). Master to his school. Mr. Moore after dinner goes to Oxford, and having Mr. Forbes’s Chair on Runners, carrys Suse with him to go to Brookfield. I visit Stephen Pratt, at Mr. Jonathan Grouts. Singing School is now kept at the Sabbath House. Mr. Cushing has given Sarah and John their Schooling. Deacon Tainter returns from his Marketing and pays John for his Fowls etc. N.B. Sarah Springs Mother dyed lately in a sudden manner in her Bed.
1766 January 21 (Tuesday). Read Soames Jennings’s Origin of Evil.
1766 January 22 (Wednesday). Deacon Burnap here, paid him for his Shovel. Visit Mr. Daniel Adams’s Wife in her languishment. Dined. Prayed etc. Visited at Moses Severs House, but he was not at home. His Wife Seems to have Some religious Concern. When I returned, Mr. Fessenden here. Breck putts up Shelves in my inner Cellar. Send Mr. Forbes Jennings’s Origin etc. by Mr. Haven.
1766 January 23 (Thursday). Deacon Tainter and Capt. Wood (Billy and Breck assisting) killed my two Hogs. One weighed 262 lbs., the other 256. The men aforesaid dined with me. Deacon came at night to help cut up and Salt down. Supped with me.
1766 January 24 (Friday). A Strange Thing has fallen out at Squire Whipples. His Daughter Elizabeth has been frighted into very bad fits by Sundry foolish, vain young Fellows, who were at her Loom-Shop, and threw Snow into the Chimney etc., last Monday Night: and her fits have continued ever since.
1766 January 25 (Saturday). Sir Willard who keeps School at Lincoln, here; going to Grafton.
1766 January 26 (Sunday). I read Isa. 8. a.m., Luk. 11. p.m. to v. 26. Preached on Isa. 6.9.10. Mr. Fessenden dined with us. Master Cushing is gone to Shrewsbury. N.B. This morning before Day Mrs. P________ went to Lt. Bakers whose wife was in Travel. And She returned before Meeting Time; the Child being born, and p.m. was baptized; Hannah.
1766 January 27 (Monday). Visit Mr. Joseph Grout’s Son Joseph who is Sick—and pray with him. In going from thence to Mr. Nurse’s my Mare’s foot Slid So suddenly from under her that She came down upon her side, but I dismounted without Hurt. D.G. Visit at Mr. Nurse’s, at Mr. Eleazer Pratt’s, and Mr. Jos. Harringtons, where I buy Cheese—and Sup. I understand Mr. Hemingway keeps a singing School there. So that there are 4 Singing schools this Winter in this Parish. May they be under divine Direction! Billy watches with Eliz. Whipple, whose Fitts continue still. Received a large Letter from Rev. Hawley of Mashpee Dated Nov. [blank] last.
1766 January 28 (Tuesday). Elizabeth Whipple had 13 fitts (as Billy says) last Night. She has none a Days. Mr. Whitney brought home for me Two Bush. and 1/2 of Malt from Mr. Mathis’s. P.M. I rode to the South—Deacon Bonds, Mr. Kendals—Paid him in full and to his satisfaction for his Pork, yet gave him but 21d per pound; because it was generally but 20d at Boston as I was informed by many, about that Time, and it was sold for that in our own Neighbourhood. Went to Mr. Daniel Forbes’s—and Supped there. Called at Deacon Tainters in returning. Alas! I soon loose the pungent Thoughts which I have sometimes had of Death and Eternity. The Lord awaken me, and all round me!
1766 January 29 (Wednesday). I Study forenoon and visit p.m. Today I visit Ezra Baker, who got abroad the weather being very fine. Speak to Joseph Warrin to live with me. Singing gains Ground apace.
1766 January 30 (Thursday). Breck trimed Apple Trees yesterday a while. This morning he finishes—is much given to writing. I read Mr. Otis on the Rights of the Colonies. Towards Evening at Neighbour Newtons—N.B. had no other Account there this Year, than my Debt to his Mother: which I paid Interest of.
1766 January 31 (Friday). Mr. Fessenden here and dines. Acquaints us that [Rev.?] Mr. Josiah Bridge and Miss Patty Smith were married last night; and intend us a visit. Mr. Hall of Sutton dines. Mr. Hall mentions to me Mr. and Mrs. Andrews’s Uneasiness: and tells me he had carryed home and read Mr. Cleavelands Letter to me.
1766 February 1 (Saturday). [No entry.]
1766 February 2 (Sunday). Read Isa. 9 and p.m. Luk. 11.27—to the End. Preached a. and p.m. on Isa. 6.9.10. Mr. John Chamberlin late of Stockbridge, dined with us; as did Master Cushing.
1766 February 3 (Monday). I visited in the South of the Town—to Mr. Bowmans, Constantine Hardys, Isaac Adams’s, and Dunlops. Went also to the Edge of Hopkinton—to Mr. Kinsmans and had Breck and John with me—for I bought a store shoat there, weight 106 at 1/3 per pound. My sons led it home. Visit at Gashets. Dined at old Mr. Chaddocks. Master Cushing here every Monday Eve, to teach Sarah to Sing, and he continues his other schools for singing, at Capt. Maynards and at Mr. Andrews’s. Master lodges here. Brother Hicks also lodges here. He has been to Newbury and Boston. He has brought me a Book [of fine?] Clean Paper, upward of 26 Sheets (as I suppose and has 29 in all)—and was bound handsomely: a present from my Cousen Thomas Barrett.
1766 February 4 (Tuesday). Mr. Bridge brings his Bride to see us. Mr. Fessenden and Capt. Maynard and his Wife walked over also. And Mr. Smith who had been to Worcester, returns hither, to be with his Children in this Visit. They all dine here. After Dinner I left the Company and go to the private Meeting at Mr. Whitneys, where I preached on Rom. 13.12, which may God be pleased to bless!
1766 February 5 (Wednesday). Capt. Wood, Messrs. Jonah Warrin, Zebulun Rice, Isaac Adams here with a Measuring Chain, and say they are Measuring from my House to Mr. Dunlops, to find a Center for a school House Spot. I read old Dr. Mather’s Discourse on the Sin and Danger of Disobedience to the Gospel. May a Blessing attend it! Deacon Tainter comes from home on purpose to See how we were on’t for wood, as there were signs of a Storm and his Son, who provides is gone to Boston. May God reward him for his Care! At Eve Lt. Baker asks me to Marry his Son Silas (as he calls him) at his House, to morrow.
1766 February 6 (Thursday). P.M. Lt. Baker Sent a Chair for me and for Mrs. P______. We went to his House, and I marryed Silas Hill and Jemima Thompson there. An agreeable Couple, and handsome Entertainment. God grant the Joy may continue! Young Thayer (Journeyman to Mr. Wheelock) Sings Anthems etc. Much Time is Spent by the Young people in Singing. I much prefer it to the usual Sports and Jigging at Weddings.
1766 February 7 (Friday). Billy Examined in part. Young Hemingway keeps Singing School at Mr. Joseph Harringtons.
1766 February 8 (Saturday). Billy Examined more fully.
1766 February 9 (Sunday). Read Isa. 10 and preached upon the 3d v. P.M. read Luk. 12. Preached upon v. 19.20. May God impress deeply, all our Souls with these awakening Truths! These Subjects were the more agreeable to me, as this Day 30 year ago, was a Day of Sad Visitation to me and mine, by the Departure of my former Wife—a time ever to be remembered by me, as full of Wormwood and Gall! And I desire my Soul may be humbled in me for the many Sins which provoked God most just and holy so to chastize me. I would also bless His Name that He has Seen meet to continue me thus long Since, and that He waits in this atoning manner to be gracious. My Son William was propounded in order to his joining with the Church. N.B. Miss Betty Gott with us again—dines here. Memorandum. Mr. Jonas Bradish asked me at noon, to baptize his Child. I acquainted him that I wanted to talk with him first. I told him I had Sent for him to come to me: he said he had received Messages from me but did not know it had any Reference to this. I answered that I did not forbid him to bring his Child, but desired he would give me Opportunity to discourse with him first. He replyed that he was not willing to have any Uneasiness with any Body. He would not bring it. Accordingly although Water was Spoke for, it was not Set up.
1766 February 10 (Monday). Jonathan Batherick undertakes to get me two hundred Oak Rails at the Ministerial Lot and Sharp them at 25/ old Tenor per hundred. Visited at Mr. Solomon Bakers, Squire Whipple’s, Messrs. Edwards Whipple, Greens, Samuel Fays. When I returned at Eve, Mr. Moore had brought Suse from Brookfield. He lodges here; Master Cushing also. Miss Betty Gott came with Mr. Fessenden and her sister Maynard p.m. and lodges here. N.B. at Squire Whipples to day, his Wife gave an account of the late Troubles by Eliza’s Fright and Fitts.
1766 February 11 (Tuesday). Billy and Breck have been waiting for snow, but none comes. And they have been very much without Employ—except reading, writing, Cyphering etc. now and then a little Job for me. But to Day Billy works at Mr. David Warrins in making Cart Wheels—and Breck works in the Shop in making a Maple Chest etc. Mr. Moore to Brookfield. Master to School; Miss Betty with us. Mr. Constantine Hardy acquaints me his Wife last Eve had very perillous Travel and the Infant is Dead. Ensign Benjamin Willard with new-leathered Bellows—he asks 30/ old Tenor.
1766 February 12 (Wednesday). Billy again to Mr. Warrins. Breck as before. Mr[s?]. B[K?]elly with us. Mr. Tainter is frequently bringing Wood.
1766 February 13 (Thursday). Read Dr. Gills Discourse on Places of Religious Worship and Gods recording His Name there. P.M. reckon with Capt. Wood and son and paid all by Notes to Mr. Tainter. At Eve Mr. Tainter paid me £73.16.6 old Tenor, out of which I paid Thomas Arnold £37.15.0 (which with a Dollar he received of me some Time ago, makes 40£ to him and is in full of all Accounts with him).
1766 February 14 (Friday). Sent by Mr. Wheelock Letter to Mr. Holbrook with his Hutchinsons History of Massachusetts and 12£ old Tenor for Mr. Surcomb. Messrs. Elijah and Adonijah Rice break and swingle Flax. Mr. Biglow, to whom I gave Order to Collector Tainter, for all my Debt to him and for a Dollar for Neighbour Pratt who says he has lost a Note which I gave him to Mr. Gale, for an Hat I bought of him. Elisha Forbes brought 19 Bushels of Rye @ 30/ old Tenor. P.M. Mr. Stone and his Wife, and Coll. Brighams Wife, here at Tea etc. At Eve Mr. [blank] Crosby. Billy works at Mr. Warrins: Breck writes: John Cyphers.
1766 February 15 (Saturday). Mr. Joseph Harrington here. I paid all, for 78 1/2 of Cheese @ 2/ old Tenor. P.M. rode to Southborough. Mr. Stone here. I went to Capt. Jonathan Wards and paid the Ballance of my Account £15.14.3 old Tenor.
1766 February 16 (Sunday). I preached at Southborough a. and p.m. on 2 Cor. 4.18. May God Himself Succeed! Especially to my own Soul! Return at Eve. Called to visit old Mr. Amsden who is ill and weak. Mr. Stone preach’d for me on 2 Pet. 2.14. May divine Blessing attend his pious Labours! He lodges here.
1766 February 17 (Monday). Mr. Stone returns. Having borrowed the Life and divers Tracts of the eminent Mr. Robert Bolton, of Mrs. Stone, am endeavouring to improve it. Billy, though for want of Snow he can’t go to Townshend with a Sled, as he has long desired, yet goes upon my Mare, and carrys what he can. At Eve came Masters Cushing and John Stone—also Mr. Bowman. They Supped here. Mr. Bowman brought me Mr. Forbes’s Burnet; the Sacred Theory, Vol. 1. The two foresaid young Men lodged here.
1766 February 18 (Tuesday). They left us. Miss Elizabeth Stow, of Grafton, fell from her Horse, in the Road before my House. She was Stunned at first, coming down upon her Head. We led her in. She came to, so far as to go on her way to Southborough and returned thus far, well. To God be Praise, for His Great Goodness! Breck and John to school. Read part of Burnets Theory vol. 1 and Mr. Stones Notes of last Lord’s days Sermons, which at my Request, he sent me by his son John last Evening.
1766 February 19 (Wednesday). Mr. Fessenden p.m. and returns to his Lodging again. The Business with many now is to prepare for tomorrow. But Billy though invited, is out of the Way. Mr. Moore comes, and Master John Stone at Eve with Chaise. They lodge here.
1766 February 20 (Thursday). Mr. Moore and Master John Stone, each provided with a Carriage, carry off Sarah and Suse, to Marlborough to wait on Mr. Bridge and his new Spouse, to Sudbury—and they are like to make an Extr. Time of it. Capt. Wood and Mr. Tainter here and want me to meet with them and others about fixing a place for a School House in the South Easterly Squadron, as they call it; I being outside man, as they will have it, to the North—and am outside of all the Rest of the Divisions. But I refuse utterly to meddle with it. N.B. Mrs. Lucy Sever wife of Mr. Moses Sever here and examined. Billy returns from Townshend.
1766 February 21 (Friday). Mr. Moore and Stone, return with the Girls, at Eve, from Sudbury. Dr. Throop also here from Boston. They all lodge here.
1766 February 22 (Saturday). Dr. Throop to Oxford, Master John Stone to Southborough. Mr. Moore dines. P.M. he goes to Marlborough to preach for Mr. Smith tomorrow. Billy yesterday and to Day at work upon his Cart-Wheels at Mr. Warrins. At Eve brings his Relation. May God give him a perfect Heart!
1766 February 23 (Sunday). Read Isa. 11. Preached on Isa. 10.3. P.M. read Luk. 12 from v. 31. Preached on v. 19.20. My Son William was admitted into the Church. May God accept of him and enable him to walk accordingly! N.B. Mrs. Sever brought a Letter from Mr. Barrett, which was a Certificat concerning her; but it was so phrased that I prayed her to let me wave propounding till another Day. Which she consented to. Master Cushing and Mr. Isaac Adams’s wife dined here. I perceive we have a New Pulpit Cusheon. At Eve read Mr. Bolton on Gen. 6.8.9.
1766 February 24 (Monday). Read London Magazine for July etc. Mr. Joseph Green at Evening.
1766 February 25 (Tuesday). Rode in a snow-storm to Mr. Tainter’s for money for Mr. Green etc. Read Mr. Bolton on Conjugal Dutys in the abovementioned Treatise; my wife with me to hear it.
1766 February 26 (Wednesday). P.M. I rode to Mr. Amsden, and found him in a Wasting state. I conducted my Discourse with as much plainness, faithfulness and pungency as I could. May the divine Blessing attend it! Proceeded to Marlborough and in my Way visited old Coll. Ward who is Superannuated to a very great Degree. May the Lord look upon him in inf. Goodness! May I learn Instruction! Found Mr. Moore at Mr. Smiths, in his Return from Boston. He Stood forward to my House; I lodged at Mr. Smiths.
1766 February 27 (Thursday). Having Spent the last Evening and this Morning with much amicableness with Mr. Smith, I left him to return Home; but when I had left Cousen Larkin Williams I was Sadly led out of the Way by a great Road made this Winter Time by a Number of Teams that have been into the Swamps and Meadows—but at length was directed right and arrived late. D. Grates Per plurimas. Mr. Moore was gone for Oxford. In the Evening Thomas Arnold brings John Foster to me for my Approbation of his Joining with the Young Mens Society: which I (having cautioned and charged him etc.) gave. Mr. Seth Morse’s wife here to reckon; and I gave her a Note for all I owed to her and her Husband to this Day.
1766 February 28 (Friday). Monsieur LeBlanc Came up the Day before yesterday for his money—but not Succeeding, he returns to Salem. I wrote to Mr. Barrett about Mrs. Sever, and Sent by Thomas Arnold. I went also to Capt. Wood to talk with him about her—to know whether there was any danger of Objection if I Should propound her. He answered that he did not know what there might be, but he believed there would be none. Ensign Benjamin Willard here and dines. Pay him all. Letter from Brother Samuel Parkman earnest for me to go to Boston—but I dont know for what.
1766 March 1 (Saturday). Second Letter from Mr. Barrett concerning Mrs. Sever in which he approves etc.
1766 March 2 (Sunday). Read Isa. XII and preached on v. 1. Messrs. Fessenden and Cushing dine here. P.M. Read Luk. XIII. On Consideration of the March Meeting tomorrow, I repeated sermon on Ps. 77 ult. accommodating it (by the Introduction and divers Passages in several parts of the Discourse) to the present occasion and Circ*mstances. I also delivered the whole at once. May God give His Blessing! I propounded Mrs. Sever. N.B. Mr. [blank] Haskill from Newbury comes in after Meeting. He gives high Character of Mr. Cleaveland.
1766 March 3 (Monday). Town Meeting. The first Since the Act of Court which erected the District which is called Northborough. Mr. B. Tainter and Jonathan Grout came with the Towns Request to me to pray with—which I did, and they are in great Peace. D.G. I gave Notes to Sundry Persons—as to Mr. Beeton—to Messrs. Joseph and Jonathan Grout. At Evening Messrs. Cushing and Hemingway here and sing. I invite them to come a few Tuesday Evenings to Sing here at my House—which they consent to. Billy fetches my Oxen from Mr. Grouts.
1766 March 4 (Tuesday). My Wife and I go to the private Meeting at Mr. Daniel Forbes’s. I preached on Rom. 13.13. At Mr. Forbes’s Request I carryed Tate and Brady’s Version of the Psalms, and he handed it to me in the presence of the people, desiring we might sing that Meeter. Which therefore I mentioned—and I asked Master Cushing to Set the Tune. He sat New Colchester and there were many there, to carry the Several Parts. They also Stayed after the Exercise and Sang.
1766 March 5 (Wednesday). Billy works from Day to Day, last week and this at Mr. Daniel Warrins, in making a Pair of Cart Wheels, and Breck is here making the Body of the Cart. The snow storm prevents my going to See Rev. Mr. Morse of Shrewsbury, who we hear is sick of a Fever.
1766 March 6 (Thursday). The Storm is turned to Rain and Still confines me from Visiting Mr. Morse—but hear he is Somewhat better. Am Reading Jenks Meditations, Magazines etc. Billy (or Mr. Warrin) has finished his Cart Wheels.
1766 March 7 (Friday). Town Meeting by adjournment at Mr. Andrews’s, to consider of the Road to Ensign Snow’s. A Letter from Brother Samuel gives me Ease about his Importunity.
1766 March 8 (Saturday). Billy comes home from Mr. Warrins with his Wheels tarred; but he is not Well.
1766 March 9 (Sunday). Read Isa. 13. Was unusually long in Exposition. Preached on Tit. 3.4 and delivered all I had prepared, for I chose to go out with the Application (neither curtailing nor leaving to another Time, lest it would by so doing be far less profitable). Old Mrs. Dunlop and Cousen Betty Gott dine here. (Neither Mr. Fessenden nor Master Cushing at meeting.) Read p.m. Luk. 14 and for Sermon (besides some what of Exposition) delivered [illegible] what I had preached heretofore on Mark 8.34 from p. 37, to 46. May God grant His efficacious Blessing! N.B. Mr. Whipple p.m. sat Bangor tune. N.B. Mr. Biglow delivered me a Packet containing a large Letter and two Pamphlets from Mr. Holbrook. At Evening read in Mr. Bolton, et supr. from p. 29 to 41.
1766 March 10 (Monday). Billy having got mine and his own Oxen shod, and loaded his Cart with a great Variety—his Chest—Barrell of Meat—Cyder etc. setts out, and Breck with him, for Townshend. Mr. Silas Hill has my Mare to go in a Chair to Wrentham. Dr. Haws and wife go like wise. The Select men of Westborough and those of the District meet at Capt. Woods to settle Accounts between them. By Mr. Daniel Forbes’s advice I Sent a paper to them by him, desiring they would settle with me. Read the Pamphlets that Mr. Holbrook lately sent me, viz. the Necessity of repealing the Stamp Act, printed in London, reprinted Boston. And the Other, Considerations on the Propriety of imposing Taxes on the British Colonies.
1766 March 11 (Tuesday). Have been much concerned about Billy, on his Journey by reason of the Lameness of my Oxen, which he has with him; and the Depth of the Snow clogging his Wheels. Send by Miss Nabby Rice a Pair of shooes for Jeduthan Parkman at Brookfield. P.M. Mrs. Sever here about her Relation, and signs it.
1766 March 12 (Wednesday). Mrs. Mary Bradish here and gives me 20/ more, in acknowledgement for my Pains in transcribing for her my sermon on the Death of her Father. She Says, this, with what She gave before (25/) is to make up a Dollar to me for that service. I demanded nothing. I give way, at [sic] let her do as She pleases. I am disappointed of Mr. Martyns help in my Lecture and therefore am looking over my old Sermons and Expositions for something to preach to Day; but I have sent a Line also to Mr. Sumner, who comes, dines, preaches—on Luk. 22.19. After Lecture Mr. Cushing, Mrs. Maynard and Cousen Betsy at Tea. My Wife is but poorly. Mr. Morse of Shrewsbury has a very sore Finger; and is to Day very bad with it.
1766 March 13 (Thursday). Send by Mr. Daniel Forbes to my Brother Samuel a Letter, and two pair of Shooes for two of Cousen Olivers Daughters. The young mens Meeting which should have been this Evening falls through by reason of the storm of Snow.
1766 March 14 (Friday). A very remarkably tempestuous Time. May the God of infinite Mercy, pity all who are poor and distressed by sea or Land. And, all praise and Glory be to His Name for His infinite Goodness to Me and mine, who have, though undeserving, Shelter, Cloths, Food, and Fuel, and many other Comforts of Life. Might we have Grace rightly to improve them!
1766 March 15 (Saturday). Squire Caldwell of Rutland District brings me a Letter signed by himself and 12 more entreating a Council. P.M. Deacon Bond here, and prays that considering the great Difficulty of the travelling, and uncertainty whether Wine will be brought, the Sacrament may not be deferred till another sabbath. So tedious stirring I am forced to Send for Thomas Arnold from Mrs. Johnsons, to help John in watering the Cattle and getting Wood for Tomorrow.
1766 March 16 (Sunday). Deacon Tainter and Deacon Bond came and acquaint me with the Expediency, and they think Necessity of deferring the administration of the Lord’s supper until next Lords Day. Deacon Tainter says Mr. Daniel Forbes came from Boston not till about an hour or two before Day (as he conceived) and left the Wine at his House; but that the Snow was so drifted he could not ride, and therefore could not bring it: neither do they think that many Communicants can come to Meeting. I read Isa. 14. Instead of the Sermon I had designed to be before the Sacrament, I preached on Tit. 3.5 which I had designed for p.m. and acquainting the Church that we were not furnished with wine etc. the Communion must be unavoidably deferred till next sabbath, got Mr. Fessenden to preach p.m. which he did on Luk. 16 ult. N.B. Read p.m. Luk. 15. Messrs. Fessenden and Cushing and Mrs. Sever dined with us. After admitting Mrs. Sever into the Church I read the Letter from Rutland-District—but desired they would take it into Consideration against next Lords Day. At Eve read Mr. Bolton from page 41 to 57. But may the Lord grant us to take a due notice of His Frown upon us in the Disappointment to Day; and quicken us to labour after better preparation for so holy and Solemn undertaking!
1766 March 17 (Monday). Though it is very Stormy abroad, the Confinement within promotes Studying. Might it be profitable to the Souls Interests!
1766 March 18 (Tuesday). Visit at Capt. Fay’s (now for the first Time) and dined there. P.M. at Mr. Green’s in order to buy a Cow of him. At Eve Master Cushing, Hemingway, Thayer, and [F?] Arnold here to Sing. Capt. Fay, John Maynard and Solomon Maynard here likewise.
1766 March 19 (Wednesday). Mr. Fessenden. N.B. His Hypothesis of Souls pre-existent to the Mosaic Creation.
1766 March 20 (Thursday). My Mare being still at Medway, I borrowed Dr. Hawes’s and rode to Mr. Jonas Bradish to talk with him, and do so. At Eve received two volumes of Select sermons, viz. Vol. 3 and 4 from Mr. Condy for Mr. Moore.
1766 March 21 (Friday). One Brother of the Church after another has been hereto talk about the Rutland District Letter. Brother Whitney to Day, Shews his Opposition. One Sarah Scot Rowliss, a stranger, comes in; is Sick here. Says She was born in Cheapside, London. Lodges. Mr. Benjamin Tainter pays me 17£ Cash—this with Sundry parcells of money paid and laid out for me amounting to 16£ 3/9 and Notes 71£ 16/4—in all this Evening £105. N.B. Mr. Silas Hill brings home my Mare.
1766 March 22 (Saturday). Mrs. Rowliss is so well as to leave us.
1766 March 23 (Sunday). Read Isa. 15. Preached on Gal. 6.4. Administered the Lords supper. Master Cushing and Mrs. Maynard dined here. P.M. Read Luk. 16 and Preached on Tit. 3.5. Baptized Mr. Samuel Forb.’s Child Sarah. Read to the Church (by Request) a second Time, the Letter from Rutland-District. No one lifted up an Hand, except Capt. Jonas Brigham. Read at Eve another Portion of Mr. Bolton. When I was come up to go to Bed, Mr. Thomas Frost came hastily and requests me to go and see Ruth Bellows (of about 15 years) of Southborough, who lies Sick at Mr. Hannaniah Parkers. I went—found her incapable of Conversing. Prayed by her—returned before Midnight.
1766 March 24 (Monday). Jonas and John cart Gravel from the Back of the House to the Hollow in the Way of the Barn. Mr. Batheric here—took him alone and talked with him about his holding down his Head at singing Triple time Tunes. Miss Huldah and Miss Mary Stone came, and dined with us. They went and Sarah with them p.m. to Deacon Tainters. Lt. Josh. Locks Wife here.
1766 March 25 (Tuesday). Visit Ruth Bellows and pray with her. Went to Capt. Maynards, but he was gone to Salem and Mr. Fessenden to Cambridge—told Mrs. Maynard that I was willing to take 50£ old Tenor upon me, which my son Ebenezer owes Mr. Fessenden, and Mr. Fessenden owes Capt. Maynard. N.B. I bought an extraordinary Quarter of Veal of Deacon Batchellor—weighted 25 1/2 lb. @ 20d per pound. The young Ladys (the Stones) are here, dine, and tarry over night. I went p.m. to Mr. Joseph Greens and bought a Cow of him—6 years old for 27£ if I take her away now—28 if he keeps her till She Calves and if She does well. I take him at this last, and he is to hazzard her, and help drive her and the Calf home to me. At Eve came the Singers, viz. Master Cushing, Hemingway, Thayer, Wheelock, Seth Morse, Benjamin Fay, Foster. Master Supps and lodges here.
1766 March 26 (Wednesday). Miss Huldah Stone having made a Gown for Sarah, She and her Sister Mary return home. I was with them to take Care of them and assist them, the Banks of Snow being in some places very difficulty passed. Dined at Mr. Stones; as did Mr. Mat. Bridge and Maj. Farrar. I preached the Lecture there on Gen. 3.15. After Lecture Mr. Chamberlin accompanys me in a visit to old Mrs. Parmentor. I prayed there. In returning home, Called at Mr. Thomas Temples it being stormy.
1766 March 27 (Thursday). Berry Bowen here with his Box and Glasses for prospects. Am reading some of the Sermons in the practical Preacher Vols. 3 and 4. P.M. Billy comes home, has his and my Oxen and his Cart, with him—leaves Breck at Townshend. Deacon Tainter kindly brings and sets up two Horse Blocks.
1766 March 28 (Friday). Billy goes (on my Mare) to Medfield. Deacon Tainter here at night, and is come from Mrs. Andrews, with a Message from her, to desire me to give her opportunity to see me, and he proposes my visiting old Capt. Forbush on next Monday, that she might See me there, which I consent to.
1766 March 29 (Saturday). Billy returns from Medfield and brings me a Letter from Squire Adams of Feb. 21 in answer to mine of December 6th last. My Son Ebenezer from Brookfield came this Evening.
1766 March 30 (Sunday). Read Isa. 16. Preached on Tit. 3.3. P.M. read Luk. 17. Preached on Tit. 3.6. Read in Mr. Bolton at Eve. Master Cushing dined here.
1766 March 31 (Monday). P.M. I visited old Capt. Forb. and prayed with him. He receives my visit very kindly. Mrs. Andrews came and I asked her to give me Opportunity to Speak with her. We went into the old Room, but it might have been better to have had witnesses—her discourse being Sometimes very indecent, and even intolerable. (See a paper on which I have writ the Substance of the Conversation.) The Lord grant me a suitable Frame of Spirit under these Tryals! Mr. Joseph Grout takes Billy Oxen, to keep.
1766 April 1 (Tuesday). My wife and I dined at Mr. Tainters. P.M. I preached at the Widow Grows on Rev. 22.14 to p. 73. And may God add His Blessing! At Eve Mr. Cushing, Hemingway, Wheelock, Benjamin Fay junior and two Ladds came to singing.
1766 April 2 (Wednesday). I visited in the Western part. Dined at Mr. Moses Brighams. Went chiefly to see Mr. William Nurse and Family—being sick and lame etc. N.B. he paid me his Rates £5.12.10 old Tenor. Was at Artemas Bruce’s, Widow Smiths, but she was gone to the Funeral of her Brother Mr. Joseph Miles. I was also at Mr. Thomas Whitneys—and in returning I Spent some Time at Ensign Fays at Evening.
1766 April 3 (Thursday). Catechized at the Meeting House, a. and p.m. 53 Boys, only 22 Girls. At Eve my wife and I at Mr. Hez. Pratts attending the Marriage of Joseph Bond to Hephz. Pratt. N.B. Levi Rice works p.m. plowing the Field behind the Meeting House.
1766 April 4 (Friday). Payd Mr. Kinsman two Dollars in part for the shoat. Levi plowing all Day.
1766 April 5 (Saturday). Thomas Arnold finishes the plowing of that Field. P.M. he has my mare to go to his Father.
1766 April 6 (Sunday). Read Isa. 17. Preached a.m. on Tit. 3.6. Master Cushing dines. P.M. read Luk. 18. Repeated Exposition on Mat. 5.43 to p. 6. At Eve read Mr. Bolton from page 94 to 104.
1766 April 7 (Monday). Mr. Jonas Bradish runs Lines and searches Bounds of old Mr. Rice’s 16 Acres, his Pine Field. In order to which they desire me to go with my plan of 13 acres and 14 Rods. We go round my marks. Capt. Wood and old Mr. Rice there part of the Time. Mr. Zebulun and his sons Enoch and Levi there all the time of going round my Land. And by our Measuring to the lower point Set up a stake, where we suppose the Pine Tree which is mentioned in the platt, but which Lt. Ward when he was with us there last Time, could not find, may be supposed to have stood—or near it. Mr. Bradish and Neighbour Rice are upon the Same work p.m. but I went not. Thomas Arnold brought Billys Oxen from Mr. Joseph Grouts. With them and my 4 and Nathan Kennys, break up my West Pasture. Mr. Ebenezer Maynard, Nathan Kenny, and a son of Mr. Nathan Maynard with my John, are the Hands. Mr. Moore came, and lodges.
1766 April 8 (Tuesday). It being a storm Mr. Moore tarrys. At Eve Mr. Fessenden and lodges.
1766 April 9 (Wednesday). Mr. Moore and Fessenden dine. Reckoning with Mr. F. and he pays all that I ask him for his Board here two year agoe. They both leave us—and at Eve Capt. Maynard came, and we settle Accounts and Interest with respect to his two first Notes of Hand, and the Interest of the rest of the notes to the 2nd of this instant, in which we take in Mr. Moffatts account of 27£ 4/ for Colouring Oil etc. and Ebenezers Note to Mr. Fessenden and the interest of it which was 9£ 2.6 old Tenor, but Capt. owes me, of Interest 36 pounds old Tenor, neither can he now pay any Thing upon the Note which is now up.
1766 April 10 (Thursday). Mr. Ebenezer Maynard with his Oxen, Nathan Kenny with his and our 6, plow again and finish in the west pasture. Young women Catechized. 29 of them. We began at Qu. 62. P.M. Dr. Throop here and lodges. Sent his Horse to Mr. Zebulun Rice’s. Sophy ill.
1766 April 11 (Friday). Doctor goes to Boston. Sophy very much of Fever. Last night Daniel Rice brought a bundle of eminent plumb Trees from Mrs. Clark of Bolton: which we plant. Deacon Tainter comes from Boston and brings me a savoury and endearing Letter from my Brother Parkman. Suse to Capt. Maynards. John diggs in the Garden. At Eve Dr. Solomon Wheat—much lost and wants directions in his Road home, though it was not dark.
1766 April 12 (Saturday). [No entry.]
1766 April 13 (Sunday). Read Isa. 18. Preached on Tit. 3.7. P.M. read Luk. 19. Delivered the latter part of Exposition on Mat. 5.43–45, viz. from p. 6 bottom to the End of p. 14. At Evening before Sun setting went over (being Sent for) to Mr. Joshua Childs, to his Wife, newly delivered and both Mother and Child very low. Prayed there. Returned about 9.
1766 April 14 (Monday). Mr. Ebenezer Maynard and Levi Rice, each with Yoke of Oxen, and with mine plowed Beeton Field and Balks at the Island. I visited Mrs. Permintor. Dined at Mr. Ithamar Bellows’s. At Mr. Chamberlins.
1766 April 15 (Tuesday). Ebenezer Maynard junior and Jonas, each with Oxen etc. plow the remainder—takes till past 10 a.m. to do it. Mr. Daniel Forbes obtains of me to take his Note of 300£ old Tenor upon Demand; for So much of Capt. Maynards Debt to me. And for part offers me 2 acres of Meadow (@ 175£). Though it rained I rode to Mr. Smiths at Marlborough Association. Of the Members only Mr. Stone and Mr. Goss there. Mr. Josiah Bridge and Mr. Fessenden. See Minutes of Association. I lodged at Mr. Smiths.
1766 April 16 (Wednesday). Was in pursuit of the Book which Mr. Smith had lent me a great while agoe, and which I sent back by Lt. Lock, but he never delivered it. Visit at Edmund Brighams, William Woods—and Mr. Amsdens, where I dined. Mrs. Child being dead, I was sent for to attend the Funeral at one o’Clock, but not coming home, nor hearing of it, till it was too late, I did not go. Gratifyed Mr. Williams by writing in his and his wife’s Name, a Letter in answer to Mr. Ezra Trask in Danvers.
1766 April 17 (Thursday). Visit old Mr. How and his Wife—dined there. Visit Benjamin and his wife. At Mr. Solomon Bakers, and he goes with me to Mr. D. Forbes’s 2 Acres of meadow.
1766 April 18 (Friday). Mr. D. Forbes again about the Meadow, and wants an answer. I ask till next Monday Evening. Elijah and Adonijah Rice get out the rest of our Flax, and I pay for what has been done about the whole of the Flax: and for stone Wall work last Year. Neighbour John Wood wants John to carry a Letter to Framingham containing subscriptions for continuing the County Road. John takes the Opportunity to visit Alexander. Thomas Arnold brings 20 Apple Trees from Squire Brighams at Marlborough.
1766 April 19 (Saturday). Adonijah Rice setts the Appletrees in the morning. John does not return till towards Night.
1766 April 20 (Sunday). Read Isa. 19. Preached on Tit. 3.7. Mrs. Judith Bellows dines here. P.M. Read Luk. 20. Was obliged to deliver sermon on Gal. 2.20 to p. 7 and was most seasonable after what was delivered in the forenoon. Added preparation for Fast. At Eve read in Mr. Bolton from p. 104 to 114.
1766 April 21 (Monday). Wrote to Alexander about a Young Man to live with me. Went to Mr. D. Maynards to consult him about the Meadow which Mr. Daniel Forbes would sell—was at Mr. Nathan Maynards. At Lt. Bakers p.m. and went to Mr. Forbes—Ebenezer Millers—Kendals—gave up the Affair of the Meadow as too dear.
1766 April 22 (Tuesday). John fetches from Kendalls a Load of slabbs. Caleb Winch comes to me, and having dined, goes to work. P.M. I attended the Funeral of Mrs. Parmenter. Caleb tarrys here. Sarah is brought from Shrewsbury, brought home by Miss Bridgett Cushing, who and her Brother lodge here. Caleb and John plow the Orchard etc. Mr. Adam Rice brings from Mr. McAlpine, 3 Vol. of Magazines, handsomely bound.
1766 April 23 (Wednesday). Deacon Tainter making a Pig Sty. Caleb and John plow East Yard and Indian-Hills of Beeton Field etc. Mr. Daniel Forbes junior with his Account of Boards and slitwork for my Corn Barn. Caleb and John fetch 2 Pigs from Mr. Tainter, which cost 30/ apiece old Tenor—they are [blank] weeks old.
1766 April 24 (Thursday). Publick Fast. Preached a.m. on 1 King 8.57.58.59. P.M. Mr. Fessenden on Joel 1.14. May God graciously accept our Offerings and bless His Word to us!
1766 April 25 (Friday). Caleb sows peas and mends Fence. I visit, and pray with Mrs. Adams (wife of Daniel), She being in a languishing state. John to Allens Mill with an Horse Cart.
1766 April 26 (Saturday). Caleb gets out muck from the Stables, helps in the Garden etc. P.M. goes to Framingham, and has my Mare. P.M. Mr. Stone comes and I go to Southborough on Mr. Nurse’s Horse. In the Way go in to Mr. Amsden who is low. Talk plainly to him. Pray with him. Write to Mr. Smith to preach my Lecture. I lodge at Mr. Stones.
1766 April 27 (Sunday). Preach’d at Southborough a. and p.m. on 2 Cor. 4.18. At Eve in returning visit Mr. Amsden and pray with him. Mr. Stone preached a.m. on Ps. 37.5. P.M. on [blank]. He and Master Cushing (who with old Widow Woods dined here) lodged at our House.
1766 April 28 (Monday). Mr. Stone returns home. Master to his school. Caleb comes at noon. He and John get out muck at the Stables. N.B. Mr. John Phillips of Shrings [?] Legg here and desires Contribution having lately lost his wife; he is much reduced. Mr. Ezekiel Smith and Wife here to be examined. The Cow I bought of Mr. Joseph Green (Price 28£ old Tenor) was brought home with her Calf—and I paid him for them, except [blank].
1766 April 29 (Tuesday). Caleb and John carting muck from the Stables. Mr. Martyn and his Wife visit us and dine here. Mrs. Stone (deacon Stones Wife, of Framingham) here, and dines.
1766 April 30 (Wednesday). Caleb and John cart muck from the Barn. Mr. Hutchinson dines and preaches my Lecture on [blank] an Excellent sermon. May God add His Blessing! Master Cushing at Singing.
1766 May 1 (Thursday). I rode to North Shrewsbury with Mr. Martyn to visit Brother Morse in his Affliction by his lame Hand. We dined there. I drank Tea there. Returned home at Evening. N.B. Mr. Benjamin How yesterday (except Lecture Time) and to Day a.m. graffed for me. The Cyons were from Neighbour Nathan Maynards, Beetons (among which 6 of pears), Deacon Tainters, Mr. Ezekiel Smiths—and Some from my own Tree of Sir Harry Franklands Fruit. Caleb and John finish the muck.
1766 May 2 (Friday). They plow the great Field. My Steers are orderly, and joined with the oxen make Sufficient Team. Am Sent for to visit Mr. Amsden. Am obliged to ride Mr. Fosters Horse mine being in his Service to go a large Journey to Thompson. At Mr. Amsdens Neighbour Timothy Warrin who (upon Occasion of Mr. Gale’s saying that Mr. Amsden had not been well affected to me, though he never knew the Cause of it) had some thing to Say about Mrs. Andrews, which I replyed to as Time and Circ*mstances would allow. Prayed and conversed with him and them; but he could hardly Speak. Mr. Andrews and his Wife came at length: But nothing besides greeting passed.
1766 May 3 (Saturday). The Boys plow as yesterday. At Eve came Billy from Townshend.
1766 May 4 (Sunday). Read Isa. 20 and 21 to v. 10. Preached on Tit. 3.7. Administered the Lord’s Supper. Mr. Cushing, Mr. Eleazer How and his Sister Beeman, and Mrs. Maynard dined here. P.M. read Luk. 21. Preached on Gal. 1.20 from p. 7 to p. 15, omitting p. 13, 14. At Eve read part of Bishop Blackhalls Sermon on Mat. 5.16.
1766 May 5 (Monday). Capt. Wood pays 50£ old Tenor for Mr. Daniel Forbush. And this I deliver to Billy.
1766 May 6 (Tuesday). Caleb harrows the Beeton Field and p.m. in the West Field. Billy to Medfield. My Wife and I attended the Funeral of Mr. Jacob Amsden who has just compleated his 77th Year. Lt. Forbush and his wife very neighbourly and come in and tarry a while after the Burying—a Thing very unusual and unexpected, but highly acceptable.
1766 May 7 (Wednesday). Billy returns from Medfield.
1766 May 8 (Thursday). Caleb draws Stones off from the Field, and builds up the Wall behind the Meeting House. My Wife and I, also John, attend the Family Meeting at Mr. Daniel Hardys (which was put off to this Day, by reason of the Funeral of Mr. Amsden on the Day upon which it ought otherwise to have been). I preached on Rev. 22.14. N.B. At the Same Time there was a Raising of a Barn at Mr. John Woods, notwithstanding that public Notice was given of the said Family Meeting. This was to my great Grief! After Meeting we called to See old Mrs. Warrin. John goes to Mr. Joseph Grouts and brings Billys Oxen. He gets Hay for his Journey, of Mr. Moses Nurse.
1766 May 9 (Friday). Billy Sets out on his Journey to Townshend, with his Cart and Oxen, and my Steers to make out his Team. He carrys various Goods—his Desk, Curtains, Chairs, etc. John also goes with him to help drive his Cow and Calf, and two Yearling Heifers of mine. Mr. Stone of Yarmouth and Spouse, and Master Cushing dined here. Caleb mends Fence at the Island: and does Some Work in the Garden.
1766 May 10 (Saturday). Caleb on the Fences at the Island a.m. P.M. new setts the Fence against Mr. Fosters Swamp and rebuilds the stone Wall by the Great Gate. I am engaged on the Difficult subject of Good Works—from Tit. 1.8. Difficult, because people are so prone to charge Ministers with Arminianism, even if they preach most Evangelically. But may God direct me!
1766 May 11 (Sunday). Read Isa. from Ch. 21.11to the End of Ch. 22. Preached a.m. on Gal. 2.20, latter part, page 13, 14 and to p. 20. P.M. read Luk. 22 to v. [blank]. Preached on Tit. 3.8. Which may God bless to our highest Good! Mrs. Betty Gott dined here.
1766 May 12 (Monday). At Mr. Parkers and Frosts. Visit old Mrs. How. Dined at Capt. Maynards. P.M. Capt. Wood moves his Barn—was there—and at the Entertainment. Hear of Several Deaths that were sudden and surprizing. Especially of Capt. Nat. Coollidge of Watertown. May God prepare me for my own Dissolution!
1766 May 13 (Tuesday). By Virtue of a Letter from Dr. Crosby I was induced to go to Shrewsbury, who raised their Meeting-House. Capt. Maynard accompanyed me up to Mr. Sumners; where I dined. Messrs. Martyn, Maccarty, and Morse there. It was late when we supped. We Sung at Eve within the Frame of the Building. I appointed and read Dr. Watts’s Hymn in imitation of Ps. 132. I [prayed?] at Table, and Mr. Martyn returned Thanks. Squire Whipple was my Company in coming Home. Caleb and John harrow new turned up Ground at the Island.
1766 May 14 (Wednesday). They sow that Ground with Oates: and Beeton Field with Flax. Nigh a Bushel. Lt. Forbush here, asks me and my Wife to raising of his House. The Boys go on in furrowing. Neighbour Newton plants the Field near us. Am glad to read the Critical Review of Mr. Hutchinsons History of the Massachusetts.
1766 May 15 (Thursday). Furrowing a.m. Mr. John Kelly in affliction, trying to drive a very lame Ox, to Capt. Brigham’s. P.M. I went to the Raising of Lt. Forbush’s House, and was at the Entertainment. N.B. Neighbour Batherick Sat the Psalm and Sung a New Tune, and triple Time, viz. New York. N.B. both Caleb and John at this Raising. Mrs. Warrin from Upton dines. I returned Jenks meditations.
1766 May 16 (Friday). Caleb and John Planting Indian Corn. A.M. Garden. P.M. study.
1766 May 17 (Saturday). My Lads finish planting Corn and Potatoes, a.m. P.M. Mr. Zebulun Rice came and brought me a Print which was from Boston entitled “Glorious News”—viz. of the “Repeal of the Stamp-Act.” For which may we have Grace to enable us to give praise in a suitable Manner to God for it.
1766 May 18 (Sunday). I rode to the District and preached there, a.m. on Ps. 90.16. N.B. had reference to the Remarkable Goodness of God in the Great Deliverance from the Oppressive Act. P.M. on Ps. 77.13.14 and had still reference to the same wonderful work of God. Mr. Martyn preached for me—a.m. on Gal. 6.4., p.m. on Joh. 15.5. We, each of us, returned respectively at Evening.
1766 May 19 (Monday). Visit Capt. Woods Wife who is grown Worse. Mr. Adam Rice’s Wife here. At her Request I wrote a Certificate for them they having moved to Stafford.
1766 May 20 (Tuesday). The Town and District assemble to choose a Representative. Trie many Times. Deacon Bond at last, chose. Mrs. Minot from Concord makes us a Visit, accompanied by her Brother Richard. At Eve Mr. Cushing—Mr. Moore—both lodge.
1766 May 21 (Wednesday). Visit Mrs. Kendal who is under Partial Salivation for the troublesome Eruption on her Hand and Arm. Caleb and John cart fencing Stuff for the little Lot before meeting House; having mended the Fence at the Island, and altered it—running across at the Beaver Damm. Mr. Moore and Cushing lodge. Lieut. Baker agrees with respect to the Fence of the Acre before the Meeting House. Mr. Elijah Rice’s Wife here to be examined.
1766 May 22 (Thursday). Mr. Tainter here in the morning and pays me in Cash £61.1.0 old Tenor and pays me in various Notes £28.19.0 in like Money—in all £90 old Tenor. He carrys Sarah to his House. Messrs. Moore and Cushing leave us a.m. Mr. Stewart here. Mrs. Johnson has made me a Velvet Jacket which cost me 11.2.0. N.B. Mr. Moore (who lately came from Prince-Town) is now going to Lyndsborough. I rode to Worcester. Dined at Mr. Maccartys and preached his Lecture (to a very few hearers, in a grand Meeting House, which I think lamentable) from Gen. iii.15. Returned home at night. Caleb has fenced the Little Lot south of the Meeting House.
1766 May 23 (Friday). I am much disappointed of having a Chaise of Mr. Wheelock for my intended Journey to Boston: borrow a Chair of Lt. Baker. Caleb, Jonas Kenny and John digg Stones in the further Field.
1766 May 24 (Saturday). Miss Polly Putnam at work here. Caleb and Jonas digg Stones a.m. Caleb p.m. helps Mr. Foster in his Planting; and John goes part of p.m. Brother Breck (who had lodged at Capt. Maynards last night) came to See us—dines—lodges.
1766 May 25 (Sunday). Read a.m. Isa. 23. Mr. Breck preached on Jer. 6.15 and on [illegible]. P.M. read Luke 22 from v. [illegible] to the End. At Evening Mr. Breck repeated [his?] Heads of his Discourse. May God grant His Blessing!
1766 May 26 (Monday). Mr. Dan. Forbes brought me 50£ old Tenor and Mr. Maynard (Capt. being gone to Stafford spring) Sent me 10 Dollars. We undertook our Journey to Boston. By the way visited at Coll. Buckminsters where we baited. At Mr. Locks of Sherbourn where we dined. At Mr. Townshends at Medfield and at Squire Adams’s where we drank Tea, Supped and lodged.
1766 May 27 (Tuesday). We again set out upon our Journey. Made some stop at Mr. Havens at Dedham and at Mr. Adams at Roxbury. Mr. Holbrook and his Wife were gone to Hampton. Dined at Brother Samuels. P.M. We set our Selves to accomplish our Business in buying some Necessary Things into the House as well as Visit our Friends. N.B. Deacon Edward Langdon is dead—but has left his Daughter in Law (my niece Winter) only a Pair of white Gloves. We lodged at Brother Parkmans.
1766 May 28 (Wednesday). A Time of Great Trial in the General Court. Mr. Otis is chose Speaker: the Governor negatives him. Mr. Cushing is chose in his stead. Mr. Edward Barnard of Haverhil preached the Election sermon on Neh. 5.19. Dined in Fanuel Hall. Attended the Convention. Mr. Rand was chose Moderator. Mr. Adams of Roxbury Scribe. N.B. The Committee which was chose a year or two ago to consider of a plan for the Disposing of the money contributed for a Fund to relieve poor Ministers Widows and Children, have not So much as once Met together upon the Business. A gross Neglect! As to the Election of Counsellors, Seven new ones are chose, to the great Grief of those who are Friends of the dropped, and that consider the Tendency of a struggle between the Governor and House of Rep. now. Was at Mr. [Surcombs?] at Eve. Supped at Brother Samuels. Dined at Brother P________s.
1766 May 29 (Thursday). Set my Self to pay all my Debts in Town. Mr. Moffatt, McAlpine etc. Attend the Convention again. Mr. Storer has the Vote to preach the year after next. Mr. Prentice of Charleston Preached on 1 Cor. 14.1. I dined at Mr. Mathers. P.M. the Convention met, but I was not there till the (last) prayer was over, having thought my Self obliged to visit the widow (of John) Breck under her Cancer, of which she was labored above a Year. The Collection this Day amounted to 228£ old Tenor. The Associated ministers of Boston, with the addition of Dr. Mayhew and Mr. Adams of Roxbury, are appointed a Committee to consider of Such a Plan as is above mentioned. After the Convention I went to the [Alms?] House—where I heard the Grievous Complaints of Mr. Procter and his Wife against Mr. Leazenby overseer of the Work House, Royal Tyler and others of the Overseers of the poor, who (they Say) are unreasonably prejudiced against them. N.B. My Wife and I still lodge at Brother P________s. I visit Mr. Dudson Kilcop and his wife. N.B. Great Stir at Court, the Governour having negatived the New Counsellors.
1766 May 30 (Friday). Have employed Mr. Jacob Quincy to buy a Looking-Glass at Vendue. It was obtained for 15£ though it seems to be worth much more. Have bought me a New Beaver Hatt at Mr. Boardmans. Cost 5 Dollars. My wife has bought at Mr. Deshons, at private sale, a Bed, with new Tick. Weighs 6 lbs. at 12/ old Tenor. I visit Cousen Oliver, of whom I have Pools annotations both Volumes. Visit Cousen Coverly—buy of him Watch Chain, neck-buckle, etc. etc. etc. Mr. Loyd very helpful, kind and generous. Mr. Surcomb sends his Negro with Chaise, in which Mrs. P________ goes. I take our own (which we have for our Journey) and packing and taking Leave go to Mr. Surcombs to dinner. N.B. Cucumber of this Year, at Table. Rain detains us. We get no further than Roxbury. Lodge at Mr. Adams’s.
1766 May 31 (Saturday). Rise early. Set out before any body else in the House is stirring. Breakfast at Mr. Cushings at Waltham. Call at Mr. N. Goddards, whom I pay for the rest of my Debt for Cheese. Dine at Coll. Buckminsters. Arrive at home (Blessed be God!) in a measure of safety ourselves but hear that old Mrs. Elizabeth How (Neighbour Hezekiahs wife) dyed last Night.
1766 June 1 (Sunday). So very Hoarse with a Cold taken in my Journey home, as I suppose, that I went through such services as I undertook, with great Difficulty. Omitted Reading. Repeated a.m. the Application of sermon on Gal. 2.20. P.M. Delivered the sermon on Ps. 77.13.14 with alterations and additions suited to the present Times of Joy for the Repeal etc. My own people having had no Discourse concerning it till now. Dr. Crosby and Miss Betty Gott dined with us. Mr. Cushing is gone to Shrewsbury. The Funeral of Mrs. How after the Exercises at Eve. I could not go. They had Mr. Martyn with them.
1766 June 2 (Monday). Caleb and John Spent the Chief of last Week in digging stones in the further-Field. They clear there to Day. Master Cushing waits on his mother to visit us and they dine with us. Miss Bridget Comes from Southborough. They all lodge here.
1766 June 3 (Tuesday). Caleb and John begin to Weed the Indian Corn. Mrs. Cushing and her Son and Daughter leave us. Mrs. P________ rides to Capt. Maynards with them. N.B. If it had not been for my Cold, I should have preached to day at the Family Meeting at Mr. Jonah Warrins; but now it is deferred till next Month.
1766 June 4 (Wednesday). At Capt. Fays.
1766 June 5 (Thursday). Visit Mrs. Belknap—low in Body, but high in Attainments and Experience. Prayed there—but in a broken manner. May God forgive my infi[illegible]. At Mr. Chamberlins and sons.
1766 June 6 (Friday). Caleb and John finished Weeding the Indian Corn, at Noon. P.M. They hoe in the Orchard Fore Yard, East Yard etc. Mr. Phinehas Maynard comes to inform me that Old Mrs. Hannah Rice widow of the late Mr. Edmund Rice, dy’d in the forenoon—about 93. She has been a worthy woman—but for some Years greatly impaired; and especially very helpless the last Year or Two.
1766 June 7 (Saturday). C. and J. digg Stones. P.M. attend the Funeral of old Mrs. Rice. My Cold was So great I was too hoarse to Speak. Mr. Martyn prayed. My Wife with me, and therefore call at Capt. Maynards and drink Tea. Speak to Mr. Fessenden to preach for me. Alexander came.
1766 June 8 (Sunday). Read Isa. 24 and Luk. 23 to v. 27. Mr. Fessenden preached a. and p.m. on 1 Joh. 5.10. N.B. Sir Biglow from Chelsea, here—dines etc. with us, as did Mr. Hezekiah How.
1766 June 9 (Monday). Mr. Jonathan Hemingway comes to white wash the lower rooms. Caleb works for Foster. Mr. March and Tainter of Sutton, here about their Difficultys. Read Dr. Langdon against Sandeman.
1766 June 10 (Tuesday). Hemingway a.m., only. Primes the East room in part. Caleb helps him—and in white washing. P.M. Every one goes to the Raising Neighbour Thomas Bonds Barn: 80 feet long. I visited a.m. Mr. William Nurse and widow Smith. P.M. at the Raising, and after supper Messrs. Daniel Forb., Edwards Whipple and others move to me a Desire among them to have some other Version of the Psalms to be sung in our Congregation. But I do not comply with their Desire of my Mentioning of it; Instead of doing it my self, I let them know that if there be a Petition drawn, with Reasons added to support it, and subscribed by a Number of Persons, I would read it publickly and leave it to their Consideration.
1766 June 11 (Wednesday). In Early morning talk with Caleb and Alexander for being out last night. They answer that they lodged with Foster. Caleb whitewashes a.m. Alexander returns home. Messrs. Martyn and Smith here and dine. The latter preached my Lecture on Song 1.5. After Lecture we discourse of Sutton Affair. C. and J. a while on the Bushes, after Lecture. Mrs. Maynard and Miss Betty Gott at Tea. N.B. Great Crying up of the Stafford Spring for curing old Sores and many cronical Disorders. Capt. Maynard is gone a second Time to it. Mrs. Johnson is also gone. Many others are talking of it.
1766 June 12 (Thursday). Foster helps us in digging Stones, with C. and J. Send by John [Maynard?] for a Bed and Looking Glass, from Boston. At Eve one Plummer comes Express from New Rutland, with Message signed by Rev. Stephen Williams Moderator of the Council there, requesting me to go there, to give them Light in the Controversies there—but I am too much oppressed with my Cold, and the Communion too nigh for me to think of going up. The Man goes also to Marlborough to Mr. Smith and to Sir Brigham. Capt. Maynard and Mrs. Johnson are returned from Stafford.
1766 June 13 (Friday). A Number of Hands are clearing the Burying-place. Sarah to Southborough yesterday, and brings News that Capt. Jonathan Ward is Sick: but to day we hear he is Dead. Sir Biglow brings a Letter from Brother Samuel. Lt. Baker brings 3 lb. of White Lead, to paint the East Room (mixed with other Colouring). N.B. Mr. Putnam of Pomfret had lodged at Andrews’s, but came here to Breakfast. Mr. Bowman and Mr. Hezekiah Bellows of Oxford break fast here also.
1766 June 14 (Saturday). Caleb works for Lt. Baker, and John with the mare for Neighbour Nurse. My son Baldwin here, in his way from Boston, to Brookfield. At Eve John Maynard brings from Boston a Bed and in it a Looking Glass safe, which we bought when we were last there. And Mr. John Wood brings 2 Vols. of Pools English Annotations which were Cousen Olivers, and which comes for Rent of Mothers House.
1766 June 15 (Sunday). Read Isa. 25. Preached a. and p.m. on Tit. 3.8. P.M. read Luk. 23 from v. 27 to the End. Administered the Lords supper. Deacon Bond being at Court, I spoke to Mr. Daniel Forbes, to officiate. Mrs. Maynard and Mrs. Twitchell, dine here. O that God would keep these Things in the Imagination of our Hearts and that we may be carefull to honour God and our profession by maintaining Good works—which are so good and profit[able?] unto men—to our selves and others, in this Life and another.
1766 June 16 (Monday). Mr. Hemingway here, painting etc. He dines here. P.M. Lt. Forbush here with a present of Butter, and is very good and friendly. I would thank God for it—how good and pleasant etc. God is pleased to send a plentious Rain when the Earth was grown exceeding dry. To His Name be Glory and Praise. C. and J. variously employed—hoeing Beans, setting out Plants etc. etc. N.B. The nei[gh]bours in mending the Roads, lay a Great Stone, brought by many Oxen, to be the Bridge at Rutters Brook.
1766 June 17 (Tuesday). The Association met at my House—but thinly, by Reason of the Rain. Messrs. Martyn, Stone and Wheeler were all the proper Members that came. See the Book for what was transacted at this Meeting.
1766 June 18 (Wednesday). Squire Barnard, Holland and March of Sutton here—break fast with us. Want advice—which we give. Mr. Wheeler of Harvard, preaches the Lecture on Act. 20.21. Though we have but few proper members of the Association yet there are many Candidates here, viz. Messrs. Fessenden, Moore, Cushing, Brigham, Biglow and afterwards Stewart.
1766 June 19 (Thursday). I went to Southborough, to attend a Fast, appointed by the Pastor and people there on consideration of the various Frowns of Heaven—in the then Drought, Divisions in our State, low state of Religion. In my Way Met Mr. Andrews accompanying Mr. Cleveland of Chebacco. See Account of what was said etc. in a paper on purpose. Messrs. Moore and Cushing [assist?] as Biglow with me. To Mr. Stones. Mr. Stone himself began with Prayer. Then I preached on Isa. 65.24. P.M. Mr. Bridge both prayed and preach’d. His Text was Jer. 51.5, “For Israel hath not been forsaken, nor Judah of his God of the Lord of Hosts, though their Land was filled with sin against the Holy one of Israel.” At Eve return. Sir Biglow and I call at Mr. Andrews: where where [sic] some Number of people still—with Mr. Cleveland, who I suppose has preached and baptized. See the Paper aforesaid. Messrs. Moore, Cushing and Biglow lodge here.
1766 June 20 (Friday). Messrs. Cushing and Biglow leave us after Breakfast. Mr. Moore dines. P.M. I rode to Neighbour B. How to try to get him to go to Townshend to work for Billy, but in vain. Write to Billy by Mr. Moore, who goes to No. 1, next town to Townshend. By reason of the Rain Caleb and John begin to plow for 2 Hoeing.
1766 June 21 (Saturday). I visit and pray with Mrs. Adams (Wife of Mr. Daniel). P.M. C. has my Mare to go to Framingham. I read Dr. Chauncys Sermons occasioned by Sandeman, and an Independent Discourse calculated to the Meridian of the 30th of January.
1766 June 22 (Sunday). Changed with Mr. Martyn. I preached for him on Rom. 8.28 a. and p.m. to p. 23 or 4th. Mr. Martyn for me, a.m. on Luk. 19.10, p.m. Isa. 50.11. Each returned.
1766 June 23 (Monday). Caleb returned about 7 a.m. and went to plowing and Hoeing. Mr. Chaplin of Sutton and Deacon Greenwood here. Mr. Fessenden brings me Mather on the Lords prayer which I read out. Squire Barnard here and dines. I delivered him the Letter of the last Association. Squire Whipple here about Billys Affair with [illegible]dish. I wrote to Billy to inform him of the Necessity of either Coming, or else Send a power of Attorney, before he draws a writ. John to Mill at Eve.
1766 June 24 (Tuesday). Went to Mr. David Maynards for Grass. Dined at Mr. Ebenezer Maynards. Visit Mr. Parker—old Capt. Forb. C. and J. hoe.
1766 June 25 (Wednesday). I preached Mr. Martyns Lecture on Ps. 57.7. My Wife with me and Mr. Fessenden there also at Dinner with us. After Exercise, Mr. Abraham Rice and his New Marryed Wife, the late deacon Matthias’s widow, there. N.B. We went to See the Corn Mill which Mr. Martyns sons had newly erected. We were at Capt. Maynards as we returned at Eve. C. and J. finish 2d hoeing.
1766 June 26 (Thursday). Caleb began to mowe my English Grass, a.m. and tends it p.m. John, at their importunity, goes to help Neighbour Nurse’s Labourers. I held a Catechetical Exercise, on the Reason annexed to the 5th Commandment and on the 6th. There were but 22 Young Women attended. Two of them came So late as not to say. N.B. Eliza Beals desires her Relation, and I lent it to her.
1766 June 27 (Friday). Caleb mows a.m. John hoes at Nurse’s. P.M. Caleb and I pole in some of the Hay. Mrs. Haws, in her Feebleness rides in their Chair here. Mrs. P. rides to Mr. Tainter. Mr. Fessenden here. Mrs. Hills here to see her sister Haws. Much Interruption in my Studys. Mr. Fessenden designs to go to Lancaster; wrote again to Billy by him.
1766 June 28 (Saturday). Caleb, to gratifie Neighbour Foster, who has not done his Corn, works for him to Day. John takes Care of the Hay at Home, and shutts up the Mischievous Fowls, of which we have many, and they have greatly picked and destroyed the Cabbages etc. I am a great deal indisposed, dull and heavy. The Lord pity, pardon, [reuse?] and help me!
1766 June 29 (Sunday). Mr. Temple and Edwards Whipple, a little After midnight came to request me to go to the young Child of the former, being in Extremity; and to baptize it. [Cor sursum?] I committ the whole to God and went. Take Squire Whipple and Brother Solomon Baker, with us. Found Neighbours Edmund and Seth Rice, Thad Warrin and Mr. Bruer there, and 2 young Women. The Brethren of the Church and Neighbours judged the Child would not live to be carryed to a public Assembly; and desired with the Parents, it might be baptized (the Mother having Right). We attended the Solemnity, and it was baptized Martha. I formed Some suitable Addresses. Returned. Slept. Performed the public Services. Read Isa. 26. Preached on v. 1.2. P.M. read Luk. 24. Preached again on Mat. 1.21. Mrs. Betty Gott dined here.
1766 June 30 (Monday). Mr. Bruer here and informs me that Temples Child dyed yesterday after he got home from Meeting at Evening—but it was some time before sun down.
1766 July 1 (Tuesday). In the Morning my Wife and I rode to Mr. Thomas Temple’s to the Funeral of their infant (which I baptized on Lords Day morning). N.B. his Father was there and in his Return dined with us. P.M. I preached at Mr. Jonah Warrins—his Wife Still under great Weakness by the Palsy; and long confined. Text, Gal. 3.10. Read also v. 13. N.B. Mr. Cushing acquaints me with the most sorrowful Death of Deacon Williams of Brookline in Pomfret (Father of Mrs. Sumner of Shrewsbury) and that Mr. Sumner and his wife would be glad to see Me. May God bless the awakening Word we have had! And Sanctify His awful Providences! N.B. Lt. John Wood of Hopkinton brought in, to Mr. Warrins, Bethiah Tyler, now Parmentor—and he wanted I should Speak to her—but I told him, and afterwards her, that I did not know what to say to her. Caleb and Thomas Arnold sled stones.
1766 July 2 (Wednesday). I made a Visit to Mr. and Mrs. Sumner to condole. Dined there. Called to See Mrs. Man at Capt. Allens. Was at Mr. Israel Allens. At Deacon Miles’s and prayed there. Visit also at Widow Jemima Miles’s. She not at home, but I tarried a while with her Children. In returning, met her. Caleb and John Rogers Sled stones. Mr. Barrett visited Mrs. Wood. My Wife saw him at Mrs. Johnsons. Mr. Stone also had been here, with his Brother Heman. Mr. Stone of Yarmouth has a son born; and though weak and premature, is like to live. Neighbour Morse has brought 60 lb. Flax from Mr. Perren’s at Roxbury, 40 for me and 20 for Mrs. Nurse.
1766 July 3 (Thursday). I visit Mrs. Wood and pray with her. Caleb mows the Balks round the Orchard and round the Island Field, and rakes and co*cks such of it as will do.
1766 July 4 (Friday). Caleb bottoms Chairs, being foul Weather, and teaches John to do it.
1766 July 5 (Saturday). [No entry.]
1766 July 6 (Sunday). Read Isa. 27 and Joh. 1, former part. Preached a. and p.m. on Isa. 26.3. Mrs. Maynard dined here. At Eve Read in Mr. Rob. Bolton.
1766 July 7 (Monday). Mr. Francis Hutchinson of Boston—on foot and seeking a Grammar School—dines—goes to Grafton. I was not well. Caleb and John begin the 3d Hoeing.
1766 July 8 (Tuesday). Rode early to Southborough to see Capt. Heman Stone, but he was not there. Father Loring was and prayed. P.M. Mrs. Maynard, Miss Betty Gott, Calebs sister, Mr. Cushing here. [Marginal notation, partly obscured: Widow ents.]
1766 July 9 (Wednesday). My Wife and I had Dr. Hawe’s Chair to Hopkinton to Visit Brother Barrett. Dine there. Cannot return home because of Mr. Barrett and his sons going to Dr. Wilsons Raising a new back part to his House. He induces me to go and I Sup there: but we lodge at Mr. Barretts. [Marginal notation, partly obscured: Sarah makes 5 Gallons of Currant Wine.]
1766 July 10 (Thursday). At Mr. Barretts great plenty of Cherrys. Wait upon Capt. Francis Miller, at the Price House. N.B. his Draughts, Landscapes etc. In returning visit Mrs. Adams. We dined at home. A very hot Day indeed. Caleb finished our 3d Hoeing of Indian Corn and begins to mow in the afternoon, at the Bent Meadow. N.B. heard that Dr. Mayhew dyed yesterday Morning. Mr. Daniel Forb. junior from Brookfield—says my Daughter Forb. is confined by a Fever.
1766 July 11 (Friday). Caleb and John mowe and take Care of the Hay. Rode to Deacon Bonds and to Mr. Kendalls about Grass and Slabbs.
1766 July 12 (Saturday). Deacon Tainter kills a Calf for me. Dr. Hawes, Mrs. Nurse and Mrs. Johnson, each a Quarter. William came from Townshend and dined with us. He came from his House this Morning. Reckoned with Mr. Moses Nurse (after a long fruitless Endeavour to accomplish it) and pay him by a Note to Mr. Tainter—£4.17.0 old Tenor. Caleb works for Dr.—tends the Hay the rest. John went with two Yoke of Oxen to the Forbes Saw Mill and brought a Load of good slabs to floor our Barn Bay before we put Hay into it—and p.m. Caleb Strives to get home the Hay From the Meadow. Brings the most of it in one great Load.
1766 July 13 (Sunday). Read Isa. 28 and preached upon it. I took a great deal of Pains—but yet did it brokenly and imperfectly. Should be glad to transcribe it. P.M. rode [sic] the latter part of John 1, beginning at v. 29. Had Spent my Time so much upon the forenoon Exercise that p.m. I repeated with additions and Alterations my Exposition of Mat. [12.60?]. The widow [illegible] dined with us [illegible]. Sermon on Mat. 10.16. Counsels of Prudence, especially for Young persons. N.B. In the proclamation for a Thanksgiving (which was read to Day) the Exhortation to assemble, is only to the Ministers, and not to the people. And the prayers directed to be made are chiefly with reference to Submission to Authority and to live in Love etc.
1766 July 14 (Monday). I undertook my Journey to Boston. Went Sudbury way. Called at Cyprian Hows who has marryed Miss Molly Williams of Marlborough. Dined at Mr. Josiah Bridge’s at Sudbury and now first saw him and his Wife at their own House. Rev. Mr. Hedge of Warwick1 dined there also. He is my Company to Roxbury. Lodged at Brother Samuels. Horse kept at Mellikins at the Green Dragon. Town Met to give Instructions to the Representative, but adjourned. However, they chose Col. Ward [Esq.?] Representative.
1766 July 15 (Tuesday). Was early at Mr. Holbrooks. Breakfast and pray there. He makes me several Presents, of Draughts, Pictures, etc., especially a Mathematical Projection containing the Rules for writing each Letter of the Alphabet. Visit Cousen Procter, who informs me that their Troubles with the Overseers of the Poor Subside. Dined at [blank]. At Mr. Surcombs at Eve. At Brother Samuels was Dr. [blank] Pierce, Son of the Late Coll. Ch Pierce of Newbury. Lodge at Brother Samuels.
1766 July 16 (Wednesday). Mr. Moore and Suse came to Brother Samuels. They went down yesterday in the Rain and lodged at Mr. Adams’s at Roxbury. Samuel rides my Horse home. Suse is left in his stead. Mr. Moore and I ride to Cambridge in the Chaise he came down in, and attend the Commencement. Dined in the Hall. View the New Library. I refuse Mr. Checkley, who wants I should preach the Lecture at Boston tomorrow. P.M. at meeting uncommonly crowded—supposed to be faint—refreshed by the Compassions of several Bottles and Fans handed me by several Ladys. After Meeting at Capt. Marretts, where my sister Swain lies dangerously ill. At Eve visit Mr. Appleton. Mr. Moore lodges with me at sister Barrets. N.B. have conversed to Day with Mr. Toppan of Manchester about Mr. Cleveland.
1766 July 17 (Thursday). Mr. Moore and I rode back to Boston. Broke fast at Mr. Adams’s. I called to See my Kinsman Elias at Mr. Salters, but he was gone out upon the Water; and, as they represented, without leave. For which they were much offended. Dr. Langdon preached the Lecture on 1 Pet. 2.25. N.B. Talked with Mr. Jewet [of?] Rowl[ey?]2 of Ch[illegible]. I dined at Major Marshalls. P.M. was again at Mr. Salters, whose wife was full of Resentments against Elias. Visit Mr. Quincy, who presents me his newly printed Abstract of Monsieur Marcandier on Hemp. Coll. Lydius there, and says he is going to Europe by the first Ship. At Mr. Condys, where was Dr. Chauncy and several Others. At Mr. Mathers, who communicated several of his ingenious Criticisms on the Bible, and confirmed what we did with respect to several Books which I had of him when we were young, as, Dr. Scotts Christian Life: Boems Enchirid. Precum and St. Augustine’s Meditations etc. Visit Mrs. Breck, whose Cancer, She thinks, is better. Went to Cousen Coverly and acquainted her with what Mr. Salter and Wife say of Elias’s Behaviour that She may seasonably do what is necessary about him. Returned to Brother Samuels and lodge there—as do Mr. Moore, Mr. Little of Wells and Dr. Ch. Coffin of Newbury.
1766 July 18 (Friday). Mr. Moore discovers the horrible Deceit in the Horse-keeping at Millikens, and brings a sample of the Hay which our Horses live upon, and shews is to my Brother who is astonished at it. We attempt to come home, but the Horse proves very dull, according to his Keeping. We drag along—dine at Mr. Woodwards—called at Dr. Roby’s and at Mr. Bridge’s. Tea at Cyprian Hows. We arrive safely, through divine Goodness. Mr. Moore lodges here.
1766 July 19 (Saturday). Mr. Moore tarrys that he may preach for Me. Mr. Cushing p.m.
1766 July 20 (Sunday). I read Isa. 29 and Joh. 2. Mr. Moore preached a. and p.m. on Isa. 1.3—My people doth not Consider. May God bless it, for our universal and saving Benefit! Mr. Cushing dined here. Mr. Cushing at Tea, at Night, and lodged.
1766 July 21 (Monday). Mr. C. to his School. Mr. M. tarryed and dined. I went to Ensign Josiah Rice’s for Hay, but I could obtain none. Mrs. Johnson had been before me and obtained. Dined there. Mr. M. leaves us to go to Oxford. At Eve Mr. Hutchinson with his Son—and Ruddock returning from Cambridge etc. My Daughter Sarah poorly. Miss Betty Gott here, and lodges.
1766 July 22 (Tuesday). Caleb Carts home 5 shocks 8 Sheaves Rye and one Load of Hay.
1766 July 23 (Wednesday). Sarah much indispos’d.
1766 July 24 (Thursday). Publick Thanksgiving for Repeal of the Stamp Act. Preached on Ps. 124.6.7.8. Miss Betty Gott dined with us. N.B. Sarah so poorly, and Suse at Boston, Mrs. P________ makes no great Provision. Mr. Tainter and his Wife visit us, attend our Family Exercise (in which I read in Mr. Grove on the Lords Supper) and sup here. Mr. Tainter tells me Mr. Andrews refuses to pay his ministerial Rate. At Night Mr. Moses Wheelock was marryed to Lydia Bond.
1766 July 25 (Friday). Sarah droops more and more, So that we Send for Dr. Wilson, who comes—dines here. Caleb works for Neighbour Pratt. John is hoeing in the Orchard etc.
1766 July 26 (Saturday). [No entry.]
1766 July 27 (Sunday). Read Isa. 30. Preached on Gal. 6.4 and administered the Lords Supper. Mr. Cushing and Mrs. Maynard dined here. P.M. Read John 3. Preached on Act. 5.31. After introduction I pursued my Scheme in repeating sermon on Mat. 1.21 to p. 15, but then added at the Close. Read at Eve in Mr. Bolton to the Family from p. 126.
1766 July 28 (Monday). Samuel Sat off early for Boston. I visit Mr. Snows young Child, which is dangerously ill. Prayed with them. Dr. Dexter there. P.M. I rode up to See Mr. Artemas Bruce’s Wife under Languishment. Prayed there. Call at Widow Smiths, who is under Spiritual Darkness. Cousen Betty Gott came—lodges here.
1766 July 29 (Tuesday). Letting Weather. Caleb is about sundry Chores. Mr. David Maynard here and offers to sell me four Acres of Meadow Land or 45£ an Acre—in Middle Meadow. N.B. Sent last Eve by Thomas Drury tertius, of Grafton, for my Mare from Boston.
1766 July 30 (Wednesday). Thomas Drury brings the Mare home, and he breakfasts with us. Rains so I can’t go abroad about the Meadow proposed yesterday. N.B. Cornet Brigham here, and talks upon the Andrews Affair. He dines here. Capt. Wood was here also, viz. to desire me to preach at his House next Tuesday. N.B. Deacon Tainter has brought me a Letter from Mr. Frost of Mill-River to desire me to look over his Sermons, which he has transcribed for the Press.
1766 July 31 (Thursday). At Mr. David Maynards about the Meadow abovesaid. Dined at Squire Whipples. Caleb reaps Rye, but chiefly Cradles Wheat. Visit at Mr. James Maynards. At Mr. Edmund Rices and T. Temples. Mr. David Maynard meets me at Mr. James Maynards and we go to view his Meadow. He shows me part of the ministerial Meadow as part of what he would sell me—which with other Bounds not to my liking, makes me decline buying it; but I dont answer him to night. Was at Neighbour Solomon Bakers—who can’t advise to buying it.
1766 August 1 (Friday). C. and J. about the Rye and Wheat—they get in [blank] Shock of Rye and [blank] Shock of Wheat. They work till past 10 in the Night and Mr. Nurse and Nathan Kenny help them. Mr. Benjamin Hills being in a languishing Condition and lodging at Mr. Wheelocks, I went up to see him and Speak with him, upon his low state etc. He is going another Journey, and his Wife with him. I visit at Neighbour Zebulun Rice’s. N.B. Earnest Talk upon the Andrews Controversie. Visit Capt. Woods Wife. Mr. Snow here and tells me his sons Child is Dead, and Burial tomorrow. N.B. I sent by him a Letter to Mr. Andrews which I wrote 2 or 3 Days agoe. N.B. Mr. Stone here in his Return from Stafford.
1766 August 2 (Saturday). A.M. I rode to the South East Corner—in special to visit Mr. Belknap and his Wife upon her Recovery—and prayed giving Thanks for Gods great Goodness in healing her. Called at Seth Woods’s. Dined at Mr. Chamberlains, who goes with me to Mr. Snows. Attended the Funeral of the Child and prayed. Mr. Snow tells me the Andrews did not receive my Letter very kindly. N.B. Mr. Timothy Warrin rides with me going to the Burying—the Conversation is Andrews. N.B. Dr. Willson takes Sarah. Caleb worked a good part of the Day at Mr. Nurse’s. John at the Bushes. N.B. I apprized Neighbour Newton that a part of the Meadow which his unkel David Maynard was going to sell him, was ministerial. His Chief Answer was, that it had been possessed a long Time undisturbed. I rode to Grafton and lodged at Mr. Hutchinsons.
1766 August 3 (Sunday). Mr. Hutchinson went to Westborough this morning, though against my Disposition—but he will do after his own manner. He preached on Gen. 3.29.23 and on Ch. 28.12. He also baptized Aaron, son of Isaac Miller. I preached for him on Heb. 4.2 a. and p.m. to the End of p. 20. Returned at Eve and met him, who had been discoursing with Ensign Fay.
1766 August 4 (Monday). Caleb mows at the further part of the Newton Meadow. I rode over to Edmund Rice to see whether he would sell his Right in Middle Meadow. But he utterly declined it. P.M. I visited and prayed with old Capt. Forbush. He appeared to have some Concern about Death, but he is wofully deficient respecting the Things of Religion.
1766 August 5 (Tuesday). Mrs. Johnson had my Mare for Thomas Arnold to carry Bread to Worcester. The Eclipse observed: but with with no advantage to view it with Instruments. Mrs. Johnson, and her sister Hannah who very kindly have helped us this forenoon because of Sarahs Illness, dined with us. Caleb a Load of Hay. I preached at Capt. Woods on 1 John. 3.14, first Clause, to p. 10. N.B. Mrs. Wood very low and dangerously ill. After Exercise I desired the Brethren would tarry a little that I might speak with them. (For Mr. Zebulun Rice had apprized me that some of them had agreed together to enquire into the Case of Mrs. Andrews, at this time: and I conceived from the Drift of his Discourse t’other Day, that they were such as were uneasy with me about it.) Though they seemed to be drawing off, yet a Number returned to me and I thereupon addressed my self to them attempting some Narrative of the Affair, that they might understand the first Beginning of Mrs. Andrews’s Disquietment and might See how little Reason she had to be offended with me. But they soon grew unwilling to hear. Upon their manifesting Such a Frame, and I fearing what Advantage might be taken at what I said, Upon my mentioning her name, I turned my Self about to See who they all were, I observed to them that I Should be carefull to minute down who I spoke to and what I said, as had been my manner to do in this matter, that I might be able to defend my self, when Occasion Should arise to require it. I took notice they were Eleven of them (Capt. Wood, Mr. Charles Rice, Deacon Tainter, Capt. B. Fay, Capt. Jonas Brigham, Messrs. Cushing, Whitney, Zebulun Rice, B. Tainter, John Wood, and Mr. Jonah Warrin). Capt. Brigham said, he observed a great deal of my Discourse brought in the Man, whereas we had nothing to do with the man—it was only with the woman: and he wanted to have nothing said but about her. One and another seemed to be impatient at my saying any thing about the society which she came from; as if they for their parts, Should not make a Difficulty upon that score. Capt. Brigham (upon my having said that this Church never would have Communion with Separates) asked me whether we did not hold Communion with such now? For did we not with Stephen Fay and his Wife? I answered that we did not, for if they were faulty, they who were Members ought to search it out, and deal with them. It did not lie upon me; as he seemed to Cast it upon me, that I was to blame. I observed that it could not be expected that the Pastor Should become Complainant, witness, Judge and Executioner. Mr. Whitney made uncomfortable Return to this, applying it to what I had done with Mrs. A. I earnestly asked the Brethren what I could possibly do more for her Recovery? I had already taken the utmost Pains and all was ill taken and in Vain. Capt. Brigham (who spake chiefly) said he did not see that my going to visit at their (Andrews’s) House, would do any good. And (as Mr. Cushing testifies) he Said, “he believed that if I had not visited there so much, it would have been as well.” Thus I must be blamed on both Hands; for others are ready to complain that I let them alone so much, and don’t go there to try what might be done. Briefly, all were in an hurry to be gone, so that we broke off, and this Opportunity went over: I fear is lost. Sad News of Mr. John Garfields being hurt by a Cart, which going over him broke one of his Thighs and one of his Arms.
1766 August 6 (Wednesday). Caleb and John get in the last Load of Meadow Hay. I am persuing and Correcting Mr. Frosts Sermons, which are to go to the press; and finish them. Caleb mows green Oats etc.
1766 August 7 (Thursday). I rode with Sarah to Dr. Wilsons, further to consult him upon her Case. We dined there. N.B. Mrs. Wilsons Brother Capt. Overing, there. He relates some of his late sufferings by shipwreck at the east End of Cuba. We returned in Safety and Comfort. Blessed be God! Mr. Cushing here when we came home. Mrs. Wood grows worse. Caleb and John get in a Load of Stover cut within the Island Field—some Grass, Some Weeds, Some Oates cut before ripe.
1766 August 8 (Friday). Caleb and John mowe Bushes. At Eve was call’d to go immediately up to Mrs. Wood. It was feared she was struck with Death. She seemed sensible—conversed a little—prayed with her. She says that about 23 years ago She met with something peculiar etc.
1766 August 9 (Saturday). [No entry.]
1766 August 10 (Sunday). Read Isa. 31. Read p.m. Joh. 4 to v. 27. Preached on the former part of the Chapter especially on v. 10. At Eve visit Mrs. Woods again and pray with her. Asked her how Death and Eternal Things looked to her? She answered, “Comfortable, I think” etc. etc. I replyed “What a Favour if upon good Grounds! I would therefore have her, by all means, look to these.”
1766 August 11 (Monday). At Neighbour Nurse’s Importunity Caleb and John goe to help him in his haying and Harvest. Mr. Moore having come from No. 1 last week, to North Shrewsbury and preached for Mr. Morse yesterday, came here to Breakfast this morning. Master Cushing also brought his sister Bridget, who is out of Health. After Dinner they all (and take Sarah with them) mount. Mr. Moore has my Mare, and Mr. Wheelocks Chaise (leaves his own Horse to be sent to him, when at Boston) and promises to be very careful of my poor Daughter—who is so exceeding tender. They hope to get to Mr. Bridge’s at Sudbury, and then to Boston tomorrow. The Town met upon adjournment to See whether they would give Instructions to their Representative respecting the provinces paying the Damages sustained by those last year, who were supposed to stand by the Law, and by authority. At Eve Visit and pray with Mrs. Wood. Am Surprized to see her smoaking.
1766 August 12 (Tuesday). Mrs. Parkman visits Mrs. Wood, though through much Difficulty by Reason of her own Lameness. Mrs. Wood is still alive, and sits up in the Bed, and Smoaks. I read part of old Mr. Joseph Simonds Departed Souls Case and Cure.
1766 August 13 (Wednesday). This morning sent Mr. Moore’s Horse to Boston by Isaac Stone of Shrewsbury, who is going down to Cambridge to live at College. Towards Eve Visit Mrs. Wood. While I was there, am sent for to go to Mr. Hezekiah How, who is thought to be near his End. Mr. Jacob Rice came to see us, and I rode his Horse to Mr. How’s, whom I find very low. Prayed with him. Returned before midnight.
1766 August 14 (Thursday). Mr. Jacob Rice having lodged here, is with us. Dines here. P.M. leaves us. I am upon my preparations.
1766 August 15 (Friday). P.M. Mr. Francis Whipple here, in penitence, and desiring to offer his Humilliation and to join with the Church, is examined.
1766 August 16 (Saturday). Mr. Cushing returns from Boston with his Sister Bridget—but see nothing of Mr. Moore, or my Daughters: Though I have somewhat depended upon his so seasonably arriving that he, or Mr. Bowman of Oxford would assist me in preaching tomorrow. One Mr. Morris, a poor Lame man, of Uxbridge, dined here.
1766 August 17 (Sunday). Neither Mr. Moore nor Mr. Bowman have come to my help. Know not what has befell my Daughters. Leave them under the Care of divine Providence. Read a.m. Isa. 32. Preached a.m. on John 4.23.24 etc. Mr. Cushing and sister dine with us. P.M. read latter part of Joh. 4, but preached what I could deliver of an old Discourse on Joh. 4.23.24 because of the Chapter which was read. Was obliged to omitt several parts of it and to make various alterations. But may God be Pleased to render these feeble Endeavours effectual to our saving Good! N.B. Mr. How that was so bad is better. O that God would grant him His Almighty Grace, to awaken and convert him! Mr. Cushing here after meeting and prayed at Evening but returned to his Lodging.
1766 August 18 (Monday). Was at Capt. Fays to get Linseed Oyl. Visit Mrs. Wood and pray with her. P.M. to Mr. Tainters in order to get him to hasten the Crossing the Ground which he plowed last Year. Mr. Moore returned with my Daughters Sarah and Suse from Boston, but last from Medfield, where they kept Sabbath. The Girls had lodged three Nights at Squire Adams’s. They are, I hope, benefitted both of them in their Health, by their Ride, but especially as they had Opportunity when at Boston, to go out upon the Water with a Number that went to the Light House. N.B. The Company were our own Relations—Brother P________ and his son Nat and Wife and son, Mrs. Winter, Mr. Oliver, Mrs. Bradford, Mr. Loyd and wife, my Samuel. N.B. Brother Samuel was gone to Scarborough. N.B. Mr. Cushing came and took his sister, and carryed her home.
1766 August 19 (Tuesday). Rode to Ministers Meeting at Northborough. Mr. Barret being absent, I was desired to deliver a Concio which though unexpected I did from Tit. 3.4 to 8, especially the last of these verses. Lodged at Mr. Martyns with Mr. Loring.
1766 August 20 (Wednesday). Mr. Moore (who has been at our House, till now) came from thence, with Mr. Cushing, to ministers meeting. Mr. Goss preached the Lecture on Luk. 14.24. P.M. Mr. Moore goes to Oxford. At parting I gave him Some Special and particular Advice respecting his studying and preaching.
1766 August 21 (Thursday). Got Mr. Bakers Chair for my Wife and Sarah to ride to Dr. Wilson, on the Account of Sarah’s Breast. At Eve Mrs. P. returns—informs that Sarahs Breast has broke, and the Doctor has lanced it also. She is left to board at Capt. Clarks. N.B. Mr. Job Lane (who has been preaching at Sheepscot and has a Call from thence) dined here, and by him I Sent to Mr. Pierpont at New Haven. Mr. Hezekiah Bellows of Oxford and Mr. King of Sutton dine also. Painted the Front Pediment Pillars, Casing etc. of the Great Door and the N.W. Door.
1766 August 22 (Friday). Am much taken up with Domestic Affairs. Read Mr. Simonds excellent Treatise of the Deserted souls Case and Cure. Deacon Tainter here, and I deliver him Mr. Frosts Manuscript Sermons, which are designed for the Press.
1766 August 23 (Saturday). I sent yesterday by Capt. Wood to Capt. Tyler of Mendon or Upton to pay a Demand upon Mr. Benjamin Hills’s Books, of a Debt my son William is charged with, or otherwise he must be sued. Capt. Wood makes return this Day, that he payd it Yesterday at Worcester, and took a Receipt of Mr. David Hills, Brother of Said Benjamin. I visited and prayed with Mrs. Wood, who yet remains, but is become blind.
1766 August 24 (Sunday). Read Isa. 33. Mr. Bowman of Oxford preached for me a. and p.m. on Joh. 6.44, former part. He, his spouse, Mr. Cushing and Mrs. Maynard dined here. Read Joh. 5, former part. At Eve stopped the Church and proposed Mrs. Thankful Rice (wife of Ensign Josiah) and Mrs. Bowmans, to be dismissed—which was complyed with. N.B. Letter from William of his Designs etc. etc.
1766 August 25 (Monday). Lt. Baker with 2 yoke of Oxen, Mr. Tainter with one Yoke, Mr. Joseph Grout with one Yoke, Mr. Pratts, Mr. Nurse’s and my own with Capt. Maynards plough, crossed my new Field in Part. I visit Mr. Hezekiah Pratt who is ill of the bilious Cholic. P.M. Mr. Bowman and wife and son, Their mother and Sister Baker, made us a Visit. We hear that Solomon Prentice of Grafton, a Youth, fell with one Foot into the boiling Kittle of Potash.
1766 August 26 (Tuesday). The like Team except Mr. Grouts (who gave me his work yesterday), Joseph Bond came in his stead—crossed again in the same Field, but did not finish it. Lt. Baker gave his own and his Cattle’s work. I visited at William Woods, his young Child being Sick. I prayed with them. Mrs. Johnson went to Hopkinton for Sarah, and does not return as we expected, which puts us into some Trouble. Her sister being left alone also.
1766 August 27 (Wednesday). Mr. Sumner has writ for me to go to their Association to Day; but Sarah’s not Coming gives me many fears: However, depending upon Gods good providence I went. Mr. Cushing my Company up. Mr. Conklin prayed before sermon. Mr. Curtis preached. His Text was Gal. 2.22, latter part, “for if Righteousness come by the Law then is Christ dead in Vain.” Dined at Mr. Sumners. Mr. Bowman and his Wife, Messrs. Stewart, Cushing and Edward Goddard junior there. Returned at Eve and found Sarah was come home safely. D.G. N.B. Master Cushing delivered me 4 Dollars from Mr. Tainter.
1766 August 28 (Thursday). Visit Mrs. Wood again and pray with her: dealt somewhat plainly with her, fearing She is deceiving her self, in her Hope. On my preparations. Sarah but weak and poorly. Suse is in Family Business again.
1766 August 29 (Friday). See of Caleb in the Almanack. Dr. Crosby here p.m. We look into the Acts of the Synod of Dort, for some Time.
1766 August 30 (Saturday). John goes to Marlborough with a Bag of Wool for Billy—to be left at Merchant Barns’s for Conveyance, and a Letter to Mr. John Dexter, praying him to look again for Mr. Smiths Book Mason of self-Knowledge—but returns this word, that he can’t find it.
1766 August 31 (Sunday). Read Isa. 34. Preached a. and p.m. on 2 Thess. 3.1. Mrs. Maynard and old Mrs. Morse dined here. P.M. read Joh. 5, latter part. May God grant we may truely profit by this Days Exercises! At Eve my Wife and I, after our Family Services, walked up to see Mrs. Wood who seems to be drawing near her End. Prayed with her. To my Question Whether She understood so as to join with us? She answers with a broken almost unintelligible yes. Her Case very remarkable in this, that she seems not to apprehend that Death is approaching.
1766 September 1 (Monday). Visit old Mr. How—and pray with him. In my Way called to see old Capt. Forbush. At Mr. Beetons saw Mr. Andrew Adams of Grafton. Lament to him his sister Andrews’s Condition.
1766 September 2 (Tuesday). Went to See Mrs. Wood; and She dys while I was at the House; but I was not with her till her last Breath. I prayed and gave some Exhortation. May the Lord be with us, that we may duely improve it! P.M. Mrs. Cotton (Capt. Thomas Clarks Daughter) from Hopkinton made us a kind Visit. Jos. Joslin accompanyed her.
1766 September 3 (Wednesday). Mr. Smith dined with us, and preached my Lecture on Joh. 9.22. Which may God accompany with His Blessing!
1766 September 4 (Thursday). Mrs. Wood’s Funeral. Mr. Barrett, his son, and sons wife came. Dined with us. Then went to Capt. Woods. Mr. Barrett prayed. May it please God to grant us to be sensible how frail we are, and quicken us to due preparation for Death and Judgment! Mr. B. etc. returned at Eve. Rev. Hall of Sutton, called here in his way home. My Daughter in Law and her Daughter Betty came from Brookfield and lodged here. N.B. Mr. Barnabas Newton with a Yoke of Oxen, Levi Rice, with one Yoke, Caleb and John with my own Cattle and Nathan Kennys—finished the Crossing my new Field.
1766 September 5 (Friday). Eliza and her Daughter go to Watertown. Elisha Forbes brings up a brass Kittle from Mr. Loyd at Boston. Weighed 23 lbs. Caleb mows Rowing. My wife to Capt. Maynards and Mr. How’s.
1766 September 6 (Saturday). Sarah very full of pain, and has Fever and great Pain in her Head as well as Breast. Brother Hicks from Boston. He is Engaged in Land Bank Troubles, and his Case against Mr. Danforth, soon to come on at Worcester Superior Court.
1766 September 7 (Sunday). Read Isa. 35 and John 6 to v. 35. Preached a. and p.m. on Luke. 2.14 which I had delivered before in 3 Exercises. But now in two—having omitted the Beginning and altered and added in many places. I had prepared sufficient for a sermon, but could not finish the Subject I am there upon; which I shall choose to do if I can: but I could not prepare another for the Communion by Reason of the many Engagements and unavoidable Avocations of last Week from Day to Day. I administered the Lord’s Supper. Mr. Cushing and Mrs. Maynard dined here: as did Dr. Wilson and Jos. Joslin who Visits Sarah, and opens her Breast again. At Eve read part of Mr. Henry Grove on the Lord’s Supper, p. 161.
1766 September 8 (Monday). Had Dr. Hawes Chair and carryed Sarah to Hopkinton. Alexander Chamberlin and his Wife here. N.B. At Capt. Millers. Viewed his survey of the Roads; West, to Albany—East, to Georges. We dined at Mr. Barretts. We go to Capt. Clarks, and I lodge Sarah there. Return at Eve. Find Billy here, and with him his Neighbour Barrett to accompany him to Medfield, to his Marriage. N.B. Caleb has Lt. Baker’s Oxen again, with Nathan Kennys and mine to harrow our New Ground.
1766 September 9 (Tuesday). Messrs. Wheelock and John Maynard come; they go with Billy to Medfield. Mr. Zebulun Rice, makes a Barrell of Cyder for me, which we pick up in my Orchard. Read Mr. Simonds Deserted Soul—an Excellent useful Book!
1766 September 10 (Wednesday). A very considerable Quantity of Flax this Year. Read Epistolary Correspondence between Pike and Sandeman, which is Sent to me by Mr. John Welch the Carver, at Boston.3 Received a Letter of Vindication from Cousen Elias Parkman, relative to what occurred July 17th last. Though it was a rainy Day, yet at Evening Billy came and the Young Lady (heretofore Miss Lydia Adams) whom he had last night marryed at Medfield. Besides those that went with Billy then, none except her Brother Mr. Elijah Adams, came hither with them. We were altogether unprepared, having no Expectation at all of them, but designed, tomorrow, to give our Selves to make Preparations for them. Mr. Adams and Barrett lodge here. The Others, respectively, went home.
1766 September 11 (Thursday). My Son Billy and his Bride leave us for Townshend. All the Company we have a Breakfast (besides my son and Daughter) is Mr. Adams and Barrett—And but two more join them to go home with them, viz. Messrs. Wheelock and John Maynard.
1766 September 12 (Friday). Mr. William Pierce comes to work upon the Wall of the further Field. Caleb and John help him. Mr. Francis Hutchinson returning to Grafton, calls and dines here. Lent him Ayres Arithm. and Sent him to Mrs. Johnson for her Hodder or co*cker. P.M. I am Sent for hastily to go to Mr. Samuel Thurstons Wife, being in a Dying State. I found her Departing—yet She seemed to have her senses so far as to consent to prayer. I prayed—and She soon expired. At my Return home found here, Mr. Whitman of Hartford and his Wife. He is riding for his Health. They were charged to come here by Mrs. Ledger, heretofore Ellery. They lodge here, as did Mr. Asaph Rice and his Wife. My Daughter Parkman and her Daughter Betty came; but went to Deacon Bonds, and lodged there. Blessed be God who has continued my Wife and Me in the Conjugal Relation 29 Years together—which affords us Matter of Joy and Thanks—but Humilliation also for our great Defects. The Lord pardon us, and grant us His undeserved Favour and most needed Grace still!
1766 September 13 (Saturday). Our Company left us. P.M. Mr. Stone here going to Grafton. My Daughter and Grand Daughter came from Watertown.
1766 September 14 (Sunday). Read Isa. 36 and preached a. and p.m. on 2 Thess. 3.1. P.M. read Joh. 6 from v. 35. Besides my Daughter in Law and my grand Daughter, Miss Peggy Fessenden dined here. My Discourses to Day were Somewhat animated, and I spoke Plainly. When I was Speaking of the Impediment to the word arising from pastoral Examinations I said I could appeal to those who had been with me upon that Occasion, that I had treated them tenderly and affectionately, Ensign Jeduthun Fay went out. N.B. Mr. Hutchinson returning from Southborough, and Mr. Stone (who called here on Saturday last in his Way up) returning from Grafton, were here and Supp’d with us. The latter lodged here.
1766 September 15 (Monday). Mr. Stone left us in the Morning. See the work done by Caleb etc. in the Almanack. At 9 o’Clock I attended the Funeral of Mrs. Thurston. After the Burial Mr. Tainter informed me that a Number of the Brethren designed to be at my House, upon the Affair of Mrs. Andrews. It was now 1/2 after 11 o’Clock. I told him I was obliged to visit Mrs. Smith who was in a very distressed Condition. Her son Ezekiel had acquainted me with it: and I perceived her Case was growing desperate apace, and could not be neglected: I had also Company at my House (My Daughter in Law and Grand Daughter, who would leave me in the Morning, and under take their Journey home); Mrs. Parkman was preparing also to go with them designing to go further than Brookfield: Besides other pressing Affairs that would engage me this Evening—so that I was very sorry they Should come at Such a Time, and give me so short warning; that I could not be prepared for them. P.M. I visited Mrs. Smith and found her in a very melancholy, desponding State. Much in the Same Road to Despair, that her poor Brother (the late Mr. Joseph Miles of Shrewsbury) was in. Capt. Benjamin Fay came there also. We prayed—and I did my utmost to comfort her; but it seems to be in Vain. I had run to See Mr. Artemas Bruce’s Wife, because of her weak State—and called to See Mr. Eleazer Pratts Wife who is Sick again; and prayed with her. In the Evening, instead of my being in my Preparation for so remarkable Day with me, as to morrow, or attending upon the Affair of my Wife’s Journey, or enjoying the Company of those whom I so rarely see, and are so soon to leave me, there came in no less than 16 Brethren of the Church, viz. Deacon Bond, Capt. Fay, Capt. Brigham, Messrs. Nathaniel Whitney, Daniel Forbes, Zebulun Rice, Ithamar Bellows, Daniel Hardy, Elijah Rice, Thomas Twitchel, B. Tainter, James Bowman, Daniel Adams, Constantine Hardy, John Wood. And I can’t tell but there were more. I gave them to understand how unhappy it was to come at this Time; how unprepared I was for it—that I could not attend upon it—that it was unkind not to give me more seasonable Warning of their Design. I prayed ‘em to consider how my Case was. Nevertheless they tarryed and some of them especially were very Zealous in Mrs. Andrews Behalf—rejecting what ever Defence I could make: especially making light of the Results of the Councils, Letters of Ministers, Informations which a Number of Ministers have given me, besides other Persons, especially of late, of the great irregularity among that people at Chebacco. Nor could anything I could Say appease them who so warmly withstood me—nor did it signifie for me to endeavour to Set them right in Things they had taken wrong. Yet vehemently urging and pressing that I must be reconciled—that I must—though I had assured them that I had done many Things in order to it, and had informed them so, over and over—yet it was in Vain—especially with Capt. Brigham, Mr. Whitney, Forbes, Tainter, D. Hardy—and I fear I must add Deacon Bond. This Altercation lasted till full, if not past, Nine o’Clock. For I think it was 1/2 past nine when they left me. May God look upon it and be gracious to us! A Sorrowful Manner of concluding this Year of my Life. The Lord Sanctifie it to me and give me Grace and Wisdom to conduct Suitably in this Day of Temptation—that I may be patient, and resigned, humble and penitent—and may God be gracious to all those who are dissatisfyed with me when I have taken so much Pains to give them no Cause for it! My Wife is preparing to go to Stafford and if Brother Breck be so bad as we hear, I suppose She will go to Springfield also. Secretary Oliver went last Monday through this Town in his Way to Stafford-spring.
1766 September 16 (Tuesday). See Natal: My Wife and Daughter ride together in a Chaise, and John takes up Betty behind him on my Mare; but John is to go no further than Worcester. The rest aim at Seeing Brookfield to night. May they have a prosperous Journey by the Will of God! Have word at Eve by John Belknap that my Son is gone up to Brookfield. They were well, as far as Leicester about 12 o’Clock. At Evening came Mr. Tainter and his Wife. They brought a present of Peaches. He had appointed to reckon yesterday, but he did not come Seasonably; therefore it was unavoidable to Night (unless I had too much exposed my Self). He paid me all—and I gave him a Receipt for £166.13.4. N.B. No Word passed, of any Andrews Matter.
1766 September 17 (Wednesday). Employed in Writing Chiefly. John returns from Brookfield. Serious Reflections on the Andrews-Troubles etc. etc.
1766 September 18 (Thursday). Catechized the Children a. and p.m. N.B. 54 Boys: 28 Girls. Mr. Loyd returns from Brandford and Stafford, and Mr. Peace Casneaut, who (having the Jaundice) has been to the Spring, with him. They dine here in haste. But they would not tarry with us—but pushed along, to get as far as they could. Mrs. Rice, Wife of Elijah here after Catechizing. I carry on her Examination. At Eve walk’d up to See Capt. Wood, in his Solitariness. N.B. He seems to urge my taking some Brethren of the Church, or more, and visiting Mrs. Andrews.
1766 September 19 (Friday). [No entry.]
1766 September 20 (Saturday). Mr. Pierce and his son William having worked till noon, we reckoned and the Father having worked 4 1/2 Days and his son 3 1/2 at 18/—They both go to finishing the wall, gratis this afternoon. A.M. I went to Mr. Beetons for some Beef. Visit Mr. Nathan Maynards Wife and prayed there. Went also to Mr. David Maynards to Speak to him about going with me to Mrs. Andrews, if she would accept a proposal which I purposed to make to her. To which he consented. And I desired him to go to Mr. Solomon Baker to go also. And apprize Squire Whipple that I Should be glad to have him near at Hand, if I should have Occasion for him, to be sworn before him, respecting any thing I had writ, or should assert. Which he said he would. The Time I proposed to be next Tuesday 2 p.m. To these he agreed. When I came home I prepared a line to Mrs. Andrews, and sent John to her, with it. Then I rode to Hopkinton and Mr. Barrett came here.
1766 September 21 (Sunday). I preached at Hopkinton on Rom. 7.9 a. and p.m. and baptized Sarah-Watts, Daughter of Richard Kelly: and Sarah, Daughter of Gilbert Dench. At Eve I rode to Capt. Clarks to see my Daughter, who grows better (through the Goodness of God), called at Dr. Wilsons, and came home. Mr. Barrett preached a. and p.m. on Ps. 17.15 and returned at Eve. Mrs. Tainter, Miss Betty Gott and Miss Peggy Fessenden dined here.
1766 September 22 (Monday). Mr. John Marrit dined with me. Wrote to Mrs. P. by Nathan Kenny, who with widow Williams and Jonas Kenny, go to Stafford. P.M. Mr. Ezekiel Smiths wife here, Examined and approved.
1766 September 23 (Tuesday). Having received a Line from Mr. Andrews that they consented to my Proposal, Walked to Mr. David Maynard and Mr. Solomon Baker to get them to come to my House, to Meet Mr. Andrews and his wife, and such Brethren as they Should bring. I went also to Squire Whipple’s, that I might have him either to bear Testimony or take mine, if the Case Should require it. He said he would be at Mrs. Johnson’s. Mr. and Mrs. A. came and Capt. Jonas Brigham and Mr. N. Whitney with them. Also Messrs. Maynard and Baker here: I proposed that Mrs. A. should first exhibit her Complaint, which it seems is very bitter against me: To which I would make Reply: and then the Brethren having heard us, on both sides, they must use their best Endeavours to reconcile us. Mr. Andrews began. He attempted the story of the Beginning of their Conversing with me: but sadly mixed Things that occurred some time after—by which mixing, the story was Set in a Strange Light. Mrs. A. helped it along. The Complaint seems to be briefly This, that when She first came into the Town, she asked me to let her Communicate, but I would not: and that She desired me to lay her Request before the Church, but I would not. After a great deal of Jarr and Difficulty by reason of Interruptions, I undertook to deliver a Narrative (about 8 pages) of the very first Visit I made them and what occurred afterward, that it might be seen how Mrs. A. had asked—and what kind of Denial I gave her; and whether I ever gave her the least Ground of Offence. Although Messrs. Maynard and Baker, I think very hardly Spoke at all, openly or Audibly to us, Capt. Brigham and Mr. Whitney, did abundantly especially the former, as if they were their Advocates, instead of Peace makers between us. In brief, although on each part we professed to be for Peace, yet we unhappily broke up without Reconcilement to my great Grief and sorrow. They did indeed desire to throw up all—and they wanted that my papers might be burnt. But I was not willing to accept of their Offer, unless they would give some sign of their being Sensible of the Wrong they had done me—namely by being so causelessly and so deeply affronted with me, which they have manifested by continual Revilings, Staying at Home, etc. Capt. Brigham and Mr. Whitney ought not to have come upon this Occasion, because they were Such Men as are excepted against in my Letter of Proposal of this Meeting: for they were men that had so shewn their Judgments before—as witness what was said by both of them with great Zeal, on the 15th at Eve. Yet I thought I would try them. Memorandum. I did not pretend to meddle with the other part of the Case, viz. relating to the Society which she comes from. It had been well if we could have made up what lay only between us two only. Capt. B. and Mr. W. would have it that We had both of us been to blame. I entreated them to tell me wherein I had. They answered In my calling them Separates. I replyed, that I was Sufficiently warranted in using that Term, for it was what the Books that were printed about them frequently used, and what they were called in the Letters from the Ministers who had writ about them and what I had my Self found ‘em to be. Again, in saying at Mr. Andrews’s the Night Mr. C. was there that he was a troublesome man among the Neighbours. I replyed, that That was (drawn out I might say) upon my Defence (when he boasted so much of his being a very peaceable, quiet Man among us). And I [ins?]ed in several Things which I had been credibly enough certifyed of. Briefly, I did not think that these were so blameworthy Articles as to bring me upon a par with them, and to such a Degree as to cut me off from that Christian Satisfaction which was due to me from them. They would lump and drop all now, without their being in the least sensible that they had done me any Wrong. And yet I would heartily go as far as can be just in coalescing and comprimising—being very weary of the Contest. N.B. Mr. A. did not go away near so warm as she did: so that there was more hope of him than of her. Mr. A. told me Mr. C. was coming up again, would preach at his House, and he hoped I would come and hear him. I answered that as they were some of his people and they would not put them Selves nor theirs under my Care (for I had about the same time been inviting them to Meeting and to send their Children to Catechizing and they positively refused) it might not be very improper, if he preached anywhere. (However, I Should be afraid of the Evil Consequence of it among my Neighbours.)
1766 September 24 (Wednesday). I felt poorly—owing to a Cold I suppose taken last Night Standing abroad with Capt. Brigham. Yet Visit old Capt. Forbes. Mr. David Hills on behalf of his Brother Benjamin asks prayer and Visit.
1766 September 25 (Thursday). Rev. Mr. Bowen of Boston brings Polly Forbes, in the Rain. I am still poorly, but am refreshed by hearing that Mrs. P. got well to Stafford last Friday. My Son Ebenezer waited upon her, and tarried there till Monday; but then, leaving her there, returned to Brookfield. The long Sweep-Pole at the upper Well, broke down. Mr. B. Tainter supposes that nigh 100 lbs. of Meat was Stole out of his Cellar the night before last.
1766 September 26 (Friday). Caleb goes to Mr. Nurse’s to get a Well-Sweep, but without Success. Mr. Simon Tainter of Sutton, and his Wife here. By them I return to Mr. Welman, his Henry Vol. 1 and to Mr. Taynter I return his Pamphlet relating to turning to the Church of England. Capt. Clark of Hopkinton was So good as to come to see me; and dined with us. Mr. Solomon Millers Wife came and brought her Relation. And because of her Deafness I read over the Church-Covenant to her, loud and into her Ear, so as that She declared before two Witnesses, that She understood it, and freely consented to it. Deacon Tainter from Boston, brought me 1/8 of hundred of Sugar from Mr. Loyd; and 4 large Oranges from my Son Samuel. N.B. Deacon again declared that he heard Mrs. Andrews say “I don’t believe that Mr. P. has a spark of Grace in him, for I never could see any.” Deacon repeated and I wrote the words from his Mouth. The Occasion of this was, She t’other Night stiffly denyed it. O how my Heart grieves for this bitter Contention, and Sad Contradiction!
1766 September 27 (Saturday). Mr. Ezekiel Smith here and Examined.
1766 September 28 (Sunday). Read Isa. 37. Preached a. and p.m. on Isa. 54.13. P.M. read Joh. 7. Widow Smith and Mrs. Maynard dined here. Mr. Moore from Shrewsbury at Evening and lodged here.
1766 September 29 (Monday). Mr. Hardy and Lieut. Hezekiah Ward had agreed to leave their dispute about my 5 acres of Chauncy Swamp to Arbitration of Capt. Ephraim Brigham of Marlborough, Capt. Maynard and Mr. Timothy Warrin. They all came here. The first dined here. They all went and viewed; and considered the Antient Platt etc. At Eve they drew up their Judgment and signed it—by which the Land was awarded to me, and Mr. Hardy signed as consenting to it. Mrs. Lydia Brigham, heretofore Green, here, Penitent. Mr. Silas Biglow returns from the Eastward.
1766 September 30 (Tuesday). I rode to Grafton to visit Mr. Benjamin Hills in his Languishment. Dined there; prayed with him. Visit Solomon Prentice junior who is recovering from his grievous Scald. Called at Mr. Hutchinsons but he was gone to Ministers Meeting at Mill-river. N.B. am informed by Mrs. Hutchinson that Messrs. Hutchinson, Conklin and Chaplin with their Delegates formed a Council last week at New Rutland, as Mr. Frinks and his Partys Desire, but that they chiefly advised them to Agree with the Church. While I was gone Mr. Moore takes Suse and Polly Forbes in a Chaise and goes to Marlborough. They return at Evening and Mr. Steward with them. They lodge here.
1766 October 1 (Wednesday). I got Mr. Wheelocks Chaise and rode to Hopkinton for my Daughter Sarah. Mr. Stewart and Mr. Moore go with me. They dine at Mr. Barretts. I proceeded to Capt. Clarks and dined there. Made up Accounts there for Sarahs Board at their House a Month. Besides Several Presents which we both have made them. But they have been very civil, obliging and genteel. Mrs. Cotton and Miss Patty Clark, are so good as to ride with us home in another Chair. So that with the Gentlemen who are our Company, Sarah is decently escorted home. They all lodged here. Joseph Joslyn also, with a young Man, whose name in Adams, a Freshman, came here, but went to Mr. Daniel Warrins, to lodge. Per Jonas Kenny at Eve a Letter of Sept. 25 from Mrs. P. at Stafford.
1766 October 2 (Thursday). Our Company tarryed and dined. Here dined with us likewise Mr. Sherman of Bedford. P.M. They all left us. N.B. Wrote to Billy and sent it to Cuttings at Waltham for Conveyance. At Eve Thomas Arnold says he is going to Leominster. Therefore I write again to Billy; about my preaching there: and concerning my Cattle; and Breck and Samuels Sheep. When they must be brought home; or what be done with them. Young Men begin to Meet on Thursday Evenings again. Very few, only Three, come.
1766 October 3 (Friday). A.M. Sophy carrys her Neece over to her grand father Forbes’. Mrs. Jones, Wife of Mr. Elisha Jones of Pittsfield, accidentally calls here—and dines with us. At Eve I was at Capt. Woods and bought a Deer skin for a Pair of Breeches for John. Get Mrs. Johnson to make them. When I came home received a Letter signed Eunice Andrews requesting a Church Meeting to see She may have transient Communion with us.
1766 October 4 (Saturday). Received a Letter from my Son Ebenezer dated Sept. 29 of his waiting upon his Mother to Stafford etc. P.M. Mr. David Maynard here. We conferr on the Present situation of Andrews Affair. Mrs. Kendal brought home Polly Forbes.
1766 October 5 (Sunday). Read a.m. Isa. 38. Preached a third time on Isa. 54.13. Mr. Onthank of Southborough (Mr. Stone being gone to the Cape) and Miss Betty Gott, dined with us. Read p.m. John 8 to v. 30. And by reason of the many Engagements and avocations of last week, was obliged to repeat the Expository Exercise on Mat. 13.31.32.33 and 44. Propounded Francis Whipple junior and Ezekiel Smith and his Wife. Stopped the Brethren and read the Letter from Mrs. Andrews dated Oct. 2 and appointed a Church Meeting for that and some other Things which may then be mentioned to them to be, God willing, on next Friday come sen’night.
1766 October 6 (Monday). Read part of Chrysal Vol. 1. But my mind is principally engaged upon far more interesting subjects.
1766 October 7 (Tuesday). A.M. with Lt. Baker—he is anxious about the Event of the Andrews Matter. I find the uneasiness gains Ground, to my great sorrow. P.M. Preached at Deacon Tainters on Mat. 25.10, midmost Clause. Visit and pray with Mrs. Grow. Deacon Tainter carrys a Letter to Mr. Silas Biglow to preach for me next Lords Day.
1766 October 8 (Wednesday). Undertook a Journey to Brookfield, provided I dont meet with Mrs. P________ on the way, to wait on her home. Carryed my grand Daughter Mary Forbes with me (in Lt. Bakers Chair). Break fast at Mr. Sumners. Dined at Mr. Conklins. Called at Mr. Eatons. Arrived at Mr. Forbes’ about sunset. My Wife was not come from Stafford—but in a little Time she appeared—was brought by Mr. Rob. Watson in Mr. Forbes’s Chaise. We lodged at Mr. Forbes’s. Glory to God for His Preserving and restoring Goodness! Mrs. P. is, in her apprehension, better for going to the famous Spring. John went ‘o foot to Townshend for my Cattle.
1766 October 9 (Thursday). We dined at my Son Parkman’s. He is badly affected with pains in his Leggs, by which he is much taken off. What a Flock of Children surround us: they have Seven. May the Lord command his Blessing on Every one! And make them rich Blessings in their Generation! P.M. Visit Mrs. Gilbert: and proceed to Capt. W[ill?]. We lodge at my Son Baldwins. He flourishes in earthly Emoluments and his Wife is healthier. May God bless them and theirs, with highest Spiritual Blessings.
1766 October 10 (Friday). Visit at Mr. Hardys. We dine at our son Baldwins. Each of my Children being together, and Dr. Throop entertains us with vocal and instrumental musick after Dinner. We were at the Potash to see the Melting off. We again lodge there.
1766 October 11 (Saturday). We take leave. Broke fast at Mr. Forbes. Stopped at Sergeants. Took a way Bit as we rode—till we got to Mr. Maccartys—where we were well refreshed though it was late for Dinner. It was dark when we got home. Mr. Biglow here to preach for me. Therefore lodges here.
1766 October 12 (Sunday). Read Isa. 39. Mr. Biglow a. and p.m. His Text a.m. Rom. 1.16. P.M. 1 Cor. 3.11. May God grant His Blessing on him and us. Read p.m. Joh. 8 from v. 30 to the End. Mr. Cushing and Master Joseph Willard dined, were at Tea and Supper with us. Mrs. Maynard and Mrs. Bowker of Simsbury, dined here also.
1766 October 13 (Monday). Mr. Biglow left us. I visit old Mrs. Byles—dined there. Visit at Neighbour Elijah Rice’s, Twitchells, Elijah Hardys, Ensign Millers—but especially old Mrs. Grow and prayed with her—and Lt. Harrington confined by a bad Fall yesterday and prayed with him. N.B. Caleb bestirred himself and Neighbours came, cutt up, Carted in and husked out my Indian Corn. 51 Hands at supper. N.B. when I named and read part of the 4th Psalm to be sung, Neighbour Batherick Struck—but it was a Tune I knew not. He sung almost wholly alone throughout the whole Singing. For which I was very sorry. When he had done, he told me it was Plimouth. Visit Mrs. Haws—run away with by their wild Mare, Scared, thrown out of the Chair and hurt. Prayed with her.
1766 October 14 (Tuesday). James Haven from Lt. Baker, helps Caleb in carrying the remainder of the Corn—and getting the Husks into the Barn. N.B. 134 Baskets of good Corn. John came from Townshend with the Steers and Heiffers—and Letter. Capt. Francis Miller of Hopkinton and Capt. Bowen his Friend, on a Journey to Pitts-Field, dined here. Dr. S. Wigglesworth from Ipswich Hamlet, calls here. Signs a Testimony concerning Mr. Cleavelands Church. Mr. Fesssenden here: newly returned from Walpole of New Hampshire. He also signs a Testimony concerning Mr. Cleaveland and his Church. Miss Peggy Fessenden and Cousen Betty Gott here. At Tea, Sup and lodge here.
1766 October 15 (Wednesday). Cousen Betty to Mrs. Johnsons. Miss Peggy here till Evening when her Brother came for her. N.B. a Letter from Brother Breck, of his being in a way of Recovery—and that he has heard of his son Daniel. D.G. Mr. Hutchinson of Grafton here, and his son, returning from Cambridge. It is the Vacancy, according to their new Customs at College.
1766 October 16 (Thursday). I Seriously considered our Present state and Circ*mstances in this place; Considering especially the Troubles by Mrs. Andrews whose Request is to be laid before the Church tomorrow, and the great Duty of Communicating next Lords Day, I endeavoured to Spend this Day in Retirement, as far as my other Dutys would allow. Nigh sunsetting came Mr. Adams of Roxbury, from Sturbridge and lodged here.
1766 October 17 (Friday). Mr. Adams left us in the forenoon. Mr. Sumner, his wife, and Miss Bridget came—and dined here. Mr. Sumner preached my Lecture on Joh. 8.36, “If the son shall make you free etc.” We had a Church Meeting after Lecture as appointed on the 5th but Mrs. Andrews not being there, on whose Account we met, we adjourned to the first Thursday in November—and Brother Gale was desired to notifie her. Though we did not proceed to the Business of the Day, I took the Opportunity to Open several Things to the Church, the want of the Knowledge of which, may have made many persons fall into great mistakes about this Controversie. I took this Opportunity to rebuke all such as listened to a Slanderous Suggestion, that the Reason why the ministers were so much against Mr. Cleaveland was, they could not bear to See that he so much out-shined them, and People esteemed him so much higher than them. A great deal of Company here after Lecture of different Sorts. A Number at Tea etc. Mr. Ezekiel Smith and his wife with their Relations. Mr. Cushing and Mr. Willard at Tea and tarried to supper.
1766 October 18 (Saturday). Mr. John Wood here. Says Capt. Brigham had a great deal of Dispute at their House last night upon the Andrews Affair. Messrs. Smith of Marlborough and Williams of Sandwich Came (unhappily for my studys) to See me to Day, and dined and tarryed till near Night. After them came Breck and Mr. John Lock from Townshend. After them came Mr. Robert Blake of Wrentham with a Letter from the agrieved Brethren of the 2d Church, to have me etc. attend a Council there on the 29th—but I was obliged to deny him, having engaged to go to Townshend and to be there about that Time. I returned him his Letter again. Caleb nigh Evening goes to Shrewsbury to see his sister.
1766 October 19 (Sunday). Read Isa. 40. Preached on 2 Cor. 13.5. Administered the Sacrament—and See other administrations in Church Records. Mr. Blake, Mr. [Moreton] (of Athol) and his Wife, Mr. Cushing and Miss Mary Steward, dined here. P.M. Read Joh. 9. Repeated with Alterations and Additions sermon on Rom. 13, first part of v. 14, it being most Seasonable at this Day.
1766 October 20 (Monday). Squire Whipple brings me 14£ 7/6 old Tenor to be delivered to Billy, it being Mr. Jonas Bradish’s Debt to him.
1766 October 21 (Tuesday). Attended the Association—and as Several Members, Squire Whipple, Mr. Belknap, Mr. D. Maynard, of this Church had manifested their Desire that I would ask the Mind of the Association concerning Mr. Cleaveland and his Church, and I had told the Church at the late meeting, of my thinking to do it, nor did any body Say one word to the Contrary (I might therefore call it a kind of Silential Vote) So I put the Question to them whether we should hold Communion with them or No? They answer No: and they Signed it. Lodged at Mr. Stones, with Mr. Barrett.
1766 October 22 (Wednesday). Still at the Association. Lecture by Mr. Martyn on Luk. 10.42, a very useful Discourse, especially as to people’s coming to Lecture. Returned home p.m. Messrs. Cushing and Biglow here—and lodge here.
1766 October 23 (Thursday). Dr. Wigglesworth of Ipswich Hamlet calls. Calebs Time is out, and having given him two Notes—one of 30£, the other of £7.10, besides what Cash I paid him, he left us, having behaved well, whilst he lived with us. N.B. I gave Caleb Winch 20£ Old Tenor. I sat out on my Journey for Townshend. Called at Mr. Martyns—Mr. Fessenden there. Dined late at Mr. Harrington’s in Lancaster. Arrived at Mrs. Stearns’s at Lunenburg where I was kindly received, entertained and lodged. N.B. a great Entertainment at Dr. Taylors on Occasion of bringing home his Wife—but I was a stranger, and not at it.
1766 October 24 (Friday). A great storm of rain, and I was weather bound at Lunenburg. N.B. Dr. Dunsmore came in and Spent some Time with Me.
1766 October 25 (Saturday). Sat out for Townshend, westwardly part. Arrived at my Son Williams and dined with my Daughter in Law. P.M. went to him at his Saw-Mill at Ashbournham. N.B. Mr. James Colman with a Number of Hands, building a large Bridge over the River (my son tells me it is) Souhegan. Return back to his House and lodge there. N.B. I wrote a Letter in the Morning to Rev. Mr. Dix of Townshend to inform him of my purpose to preach, but that I would desist from it, if he prohibited it. Committed it to the Care of Mr. Stearns, inn-holder to convey it with Speed—immediately.
1766 October 26 (Sunday). An Assembly met at my Sons House. We began with Singing. I preached a.m. on Ps. 85.9 and 12. P.M. began again with Singing. Preached on Heb. 12.25. May God grant Success! I baptized two Children Ezra and Rebecca: presented by their mother Mrs. Agnes Whitney wife of Mr. Ezra Whitney, who are of Fitchbourg. The man is gone a great Journey, and the Family about to remove far up into the Woods. The Woman says they have been wont to enjoy this Privilege: that the late Rev. Mr. Trowbridge gave them a Certificat: that there were Witnesses that Rev. Mr. Winchester baptized a Child of theirs at Ashburnham by vertue of it. Accordingly Messrs. Christian, William Whiteman and Jacob Schoff (Germans) testifyed it before the Assembly. I made proclamation of it and repeatedly asked whether there was any Objection? There being none offered, I again asked whether there was any Objection against the Conduct of the woman? But there was none. I then Demanded of her, Whether She would promise to bring up the Children in the Way of true Religion etc.? To which She replyed affirmatively. After which I proceeded and baptized them. N.B. Old Mr. Fitch din’d with us at my Son’s. Mr. Steward preached for me a. and p.m., a.m. [blank].
1766 October 27 (Monday). A.M. Visited Several of my son’s Neighbours Places, particularly Mr. Samuel Browns. Went to the Pot-Ash Works near my son’s. P.M. he kills a large Ox. At Eve came Mr. Fitch. I take Minutes from his Mouth, concerning the Germans and a Number of North Eastwardly Inhabitants of Ashburnham.
1766 October 28 (Tuesday). My son goes with me to Mr. Gales’s new House. Ascend the high Prospect-Hill, in or nigh Lexington Farm; in the Confines of which the Germans live. Went to Several of their Houses, viz. Mr. John Keblinger, John Rich, Jacob Schoff, Henry Selleham. Lodge Still at my sons, as do Number of men besides.
1766 October 29 (Wednesday). Undertake my Journey back. Called at Mrs. Whitneys to leave my Charge with her and the Children I had baptized. Called at Mrs. Stearns and at Rev. Adams’s. Neither of them at Home. Proceeded to Mr. Harringtons. Saw his Daughter Miss Arathusa who has a Child a month old. Ah! [ter?] Miserrima! Mr. Harrington rides with me to Mr. Goss’s. They both sign the Judgment of the Association concerning Mr. Cleaveland and his people. I lodge there. Mr. Harrington returned home. N.B. Met Mr. Goodrich and Mr. Colman, the former going to preach a Lecture to Day at the House of the Latter.
1766 October 30 (Thursday). Mr. Goss accompanys me part of my Way. Dine at Mr. Martyns. Leave him my Watch to have the Regulator put in. In going home hear that Mr. Cleaveland preached at Mr. Andrews’ Yesterday. Am desired to go to Mr. John Fesendens sick Child—and therefore turn up there. Prayed with them. Called at Capt. Maynards. Mrs. Maynard so well as to Sit up and Sew. Hear that Mr. Joseph Thurston of Brookfield’s Wife is dead. She was Thankfull Woods of Westborough. Arriv’d before Night. Found my Family in safety. D.G. Mr. Ezekiel Smith has brought me a Barrell of Cyder. John works at Mr. Nurse’s.
1766 October 31 (Friday). Mrs. Whipple here, and receives a parcel of woollen Yarn which I have brought from Billy to be wove. Jonas Kenny and John plow the Orchard, and in the Beeton Field. Mrs. Lydia Brigham (heretofore Lydia Green) here to be examined, but gives me Grief and Trouble, and I hardly obtain of her to come again. At Eve Mr. Adonijah Rice here to desire my Shop (which was Thomas’s) for him and his Family to live in: but I cannot encourage it. And yet,
1766 November 1 (Saturday). This morning Mrs. Rice came to look of the Shop, as thinking I had given Encouragement that they Should come. Whereas, by his yielding to what I had said to him of the Inconveniencys, and his informing me that Miss Dilly Fays was empty, I concluded the Matter was over. N.B. I had a most unusually troublesome and distressing Dream last night or this morning—which makes me full of apprehensions respecting new Afflictions and Tryals—but I would treat it as a Dream. The Lord grant me Firmness and Stability of Mind and Heart! P.M. Mr. Daniel Steward and his sister Mary here, from Marlborough. John brings from Lt. Bakers two Barrells of Cyder of my own Fruit.
1766 November 2 (Sunday). Read Isa. 41 and Joh. 10 to v. 18. Preached Sermon on 2 Cor. 10.4 a. and p.m. to page 17. For though I had prepared part of one sermon on Prov. 23.15 yet, through So many interruptions, I could not finish it. Mrs. Nurse (Williams Wife) and Mrs. Twitchell (Thomas’s Wife) dined with us.
1766 November 3 (Monday). Mr. Hutchinson and his son, going to Cambridge are with us at Breakfast; as also Mr. Lawson Buckminster. My Wife and I at the Funeral of Mr. John Fessendens little son William. We were at Capt. Maynards after and hear that Major Taplin is down from Cohoss. At Eve Mr. Cushing here, and Sups with us, but goes home.
1766 November 4 (Tuesday). John is much taken off Day to Day—has a grievous pain in his Stomach. P.M. my Wife and I attend the Private Meeting at old Deacon Forbes’s. Mr. Fish preaches. His Text was Mat. 14.30. May God grant it may have an abiding Impression on us! Mr. Timothy Warrin’s Wife turns in to our House to warm her, as we came back. She desires to hear what I had writ of her Testimony about Mrs. Andrews and my Conversation at Mrs. Newtons. I read it, and She said it was true.
1766 November 5 (Wednesday). Considering that Frown of God upon us in the present strife about Mrs. Andrews, jejun. and prec. [secreta?] etc. Mr. Israel Walker here about buying or selling an Odd Ox: but I do not trade with him: he dines here. At Eve Capt. Wood. Mr. Forbes also from Brookfield. We expected his Wife but she came not. He lodges here, but his Horse is kept by Capt. Woods.
1766 November 6 (Thursday). Mr. Forbes leaves us to go to Boston. P.M. Mrs. Rebecca Warrin here, and Mr. Cushing writes her Evidence about the Discourse which Mr. Andrews and I had at the Widow Newtons Aug. 2, 1763. John is about again. Attended the Church Meeting, which was by Adjournment because Mrs. Andrews was not present—but She was now not only Absent, but designedly, and gone a Journey, as Several members (Brother Gale, Brother Belknap etc.) testifyed. The meeting was opened with prayer and I read part of Ch. X of the Platform etc., viz. from [section?] 7 to the End. Then I laid before the Church divers Things concerning the Excellency and Necessity of Order, and of unity. Mentioned several Maxims and observations to be attended to in Church-proceedings etc. After which proposed our Business at this Meeting, but resented this womans Behavior in so imposing upon the Church. I took the Opportunity to exhibit to the Church, the very beginning of this Contest—supporting what I asserted by the Testimony of Mrs. Rebecca Warrin, wife of Mr. Timothy Warrin, which was read. And was confirmed by the Testimony of Squire Whipple who said that he heard the same words at the Same Time. I laid before the Church somewhat of the Pains I had for a long time, taken with those persons, by Visits, Letters etc., the ungrateful and hard Treatment I met with from them and observed how Cruel it would be for any of the Church to support and encourage them in it. I marked the Inconsistency and absurdity of this persons putting in this Request for Communion with us, when, she at the same time, declared to divers Members that She was not in Charity with the Pastor. Deacon Tainter and Mr. David Maynard testifyed to her saying “She did not believe I had a Spark of Grace in me; She could never see the Signs of any”; or to that Purpose. Again, I could not but observe to the Church (besides the foresaid Imposition) this Conduct of hers in not coming to Meeting to Day, seeing She knew the Meeting was adjourned on purpose that she might be here, and a messenger was sent her to acquaint her with it that She might not fail to come. Besides, it was Suggested, how necessary it was that a Person Petitioning, Should be present to Answer diverse Questions which might be put with much Reason—some of which Questions were mention’d, to Shew the expediency of her being here. After some time, Our Debates slid into the Case of the Society from whence she came—and the irregular proceedings of it. N.B. when it was asserted that the Church of the Hamlet had Communion with them, Mr. Wigglesworth’s long Letter was read, for the main part; and his sons Testimony given me in writing last month was read also. Some Members (as Capt. Brigham, Brother Daniel Forb. and Brother Chamberlin) spake in Defence of Cleavelands late Preaching—but I endeavoured to convince them of the Disorder and Irregularity of this Practice. [Here a Greek word or two.] 1 Pet. 4.15. To bring Things to a Close, it was moved and Seconded that the Petition be dismissed. Squire Whipple offered a written Vote which would have been, probably, more effectual; and it was read: but the former was repeatedly urged, and was Voted pritty generally. The Other Article of the Meeting was mentioned and somewhat spoke to, but it was late. I prayed and gave the Blessing. Thus we went through this Affair without much Heat; May we be preserved from all further Disturbance about this Woman! And may God be praised and glorifyed for ever! Mr. Cushing, his Sister Bridget, Miss Mary Stone at Tea—and afterwards came in Mr. Hutchinson. In the Evening Squire Barnard and Mr. Holland from Sutton, with Letters Missive for a Council there; but I refused to go, or take the Letter.
1766 November 7 (Friday). Mrs. Nurse is very poorly. I visit her. Squire Barnard dines here in returning from Mr. Stone. Reckon with Mrs. Johnson. At Eve Mr. John Maynard with his Wife’s Confession. Mr. Cushing begins a Singing Meeting at the Whipple School House.
1766 November 8 (Saturday). All Praise be given to God who has preserved this Church and Me the unw[orthy?] Pastor, this Day two and forty years. O that I might be duely affected with the divine Goodness, which has endured us with much Longsuffering! May I be deeply humbled for my barrenness and unprofitableness! Quickened more and more in the Lords Work; and be duely prepared for the Coming of the Lord! Deacon Tainter cutt and carted a Load of Wood from Mr. Moses Brigham’s Lot: and gave it. He dined here. John carrys two Baggs of soft Corn for my steer that [is] fatting at Mr. Jonathan Grout. Deacon carrys two Baggs more. At Eve Mr. Forbes came from Boston. He brought me a Letter from Venerable Mr. Chipman of Beverly—In which he Certifies me concerning the Separate society at Chebacco and Mr. Cleavelands Conduct—and another Letter added to it and Confirming it, subscribed by my old Friend Mr. Champney of Beverly also.
1766 November 9 (Sunday). Read Isa. 42. Mr. Forbes preached on Jam. 1.8. His Father and sister Kendal dined here. P.M. read Joh. 10 from v. 19 to the End of the Chapter. Mr. Forbes on 2 Tim. 2.19, latter part. May the Blessing of God accompany these Exercises! Mr. Cushing both dined and supped here. He also lodges here.
1766 November 10 (Monday). Mr. Forb. visits his aged uncle. I visit Mrs. Nurse. Mr. Forb. goes to his own Fathers and lodges there.
1766 November 11 (Tuesday). Visit Mrs. Nurse. Nathan Kenny helps John in getting out Muck—chiefly from the Door. P.M. my Wife and I rode to Mrs. Grow’s to attend Mr. Forbes’s Exercises there. He preaches there on Ps. 92.14. After Meeting we visit Lt. Harrington—prayed there—were handsomely entertained by them.
1766 November 12 (Wednesday). Mr. Forbes here at Breakfast at [sic] sets out on his Journey home. Visit Mrs. Nurse. Ride up to Capt. Jonathan Fays. Dine there. Visit Mr. William Nurse and pray with him and his Family. Call to see Mrs. Pratt (Mr. Eleazers wife). Nathan Kenny works a.m., Jonas p.m. in getting out muck.
1766 November 13 (Thursday). Catechetical Exercise. It was a Cold Day: but 17 Young women attended. John went to Capt. Jonathan Fays and brought one Barrell of Cyder and a Bag of Turnips, both which he presented me. The Young Society come and desire a Sermon.
1766 November 14 (Friday). Very uncommon Weather. Such high Winds, but Southerly—the Earth Open still. John Went with a Team to Mr. Edwards Whipple, and brought me two posts for a Fence about the Well, on the northerly and westerly sides of it. And which Posts Mr. Whipple is so good as to give me. At Night though a great Rain, John goes to the Singing Meeting at the Whipple School House.
1766 November 15 (Saturday). Had of Mr. Morse half a Quarter of Beef. Weighed 37 lb. We are much at a Loss about wood; Mr. Tainters year being up, and the Town has not met to agree with another. But Deacon Tainter brings a Load and takes John with him to go and cut another which he brings from the high Way. Deacon Bond here and shews me what the Court has done this Session; especially as to Compensation to the sufferers etc. in the late Times.
1766 November 16 (Sunday). Read Isa. 43 and (as I have frequently) delivered a written Exposition of it. In preaching, delivered the Remainder of sermon on 2 Cor. 10.4, Designing to reserve the second Sermon on Prov. 23.15 to be delivered to the Young Men next Thursday, which if they had not asked for a sermon to them I purposed to have composed; and to have preached to Day: But I therefore (having read p.m. Joh. 11 to v. 28) preached the first on that Text, in the afternoon, which would have been otherwise the forenoon Exercise. Mr. Cushing dined with us. Read Mr. Bolton in the Evening.
1766 November 17 (Monday). A snow storm. The Town met upon the Affair of my Supplys: But I know not what they have done. Am reading Dr. Burnets Theory. In some Difficulty about our Cattle, because the Barn was not in order to receive them and the Hay Covered with other stores.
1766 November 18 (Tuesday). Wrote to Messrs. Chipman and Champney of Beverly, gratefully acknowledging the Receipt of their Favours which I received on the 8th. A.M. Visit at Mrs. Nurse’s. She thinks she has lost the sight of one Eye. Mr. Aaron is ill. Moses was so unhappy as to loose out of his Waggon a Bag with l/8 of hundred of sugar which he had bought for me. Visit at Neighbour Pratts. P.M. John went with my mare and a whirry to Lt. Harringtons, and brought a Barrell of Cyder from thence. Mr. Temple here at Eve. He is come from Framingham. His Discourse was somewhat observable concerning his Joining with the Church. Says he intends to make a Recantation etc. etc.
1766 November 19 (Wednesday). Am preparing a sermon for the young people. Dr. Throop from the Medical Association at Marlborough Shews me their Articles. 14 have subscribed them. He dines with us. At Eve was at Mr. Zebulun Rice’s. His Brother Adonijah moves out of this Neighbourhood, to the House which was Mr. Elisha Wards.
1766 November 20 (Thursday). Preached a Lecture to the young society and other Young people from Prov. 23.15. A very thin Assembly, especially but few Heads of Family. It is much to be lamented! Mr. Cushing at Eve. Having Sent my Watch to Mr. Moses Peck, at Boston, by Mr. Samuel Bigglow, Mr. Cushing lends me his. He supps here.
1766 November 21 (Friday). I borrow Dr. Haws Chair for my Daughters to ride to Southborough. Was at Mr. Nurse’s. Mr. Solomon Miller took my Oxen home, either for his Brother James or himself to keep them this Winter and Spring, with this Reserve that I may use them to pay Mr. Nurse the Ox Work that I owe him, and do my Spring work. P.M. Caleb Winch came again. Dines here, and goes to work at the Barn to clear it for thrashing, and thrashes Wheat. P.M. Mr. James Maynard was here to desire the Liberty of the shop for a Sabbath Noon Retirement which I grant to him and to Mr. Benjamin How, for them and their Wives. But they are first to repair the Glass, the Jaums and the Hearth. At Eve came Capt. Ephraim Brigham, and returned me the Money as one of the Arbitrators chose by Lt. Ward and Mr. Hardy to judge of my 5 Acres etc. See Sept. 29. Deacon Tainter also came with a Load of Wood—and Mr. Jonathan Grout came about the Steer which he has fatting for me. In the Evening likewise Sarah and Suse returned from Capt. Ward where they had bought them Selves Gowns of a sort of Silk Camblet. For which I am indebted to him 25£ 5/ old Tenor.
1766 November 22 (Saturday). Am exceedingly broken in my preparations by reason of the many Avocations and Interruptions Yesterday. Am forced to apply my Self very closely to day. Caleb is trashing Wheat. Neighbour Nurse’s Family continue much afflicted.
1766 November 23 (Sunday). Read Isa. 44 and made the Exposition of the fore part, especially the first 4 verses, the Exercise for the forenoon; improving the sermon on v. 5 to p. 7 with alterations. Took Opportunity to admonish the people for their Negligence in attending the public Exercises; and particularly the late Lecture to young Persons. Mrs. Maynard at Meeting and dines with us. P.M. read Joh. 11 from v. 29 to the End. Preach’d on Prov. 17.25. Which may God Himself who alone can, be pleased to Succeed! At Eve Read Mr. Bolton.
1766 November 24 (Monday). Visit at Neighbour Nurse’s. At Mr. Samuel Fays. Dined and prayed there, their youngest Child being very ill; and divers others of them much exercised with the Whooping Cough. Thence I rode to Grafton (being Sent for by the widow and Brother of the deceased and by Mr. Hutchinson who was obliged to go to Worcester) to attend the Funeral of our late Brother Mr. Benjamin Hills. Mr. Hall of Sutton was also there. I prayed at the House before Interment. Was at Mr. Hutchinsons with Mr. Hall and Sir Willard who has lately begun to preach. N.B. Mr. Hall shewed me a Letter from Mr. Cleaveland to him desiring him to favour the Admission of Mrs. Andrews to Communion with their Church. Returning home I called at Mr. Winchesters, he being under a Tedious Lameness. N.B. Caleb left us before Noon, to go into the Woods to look him a Place.
1766 November 25 (Tuesday). Deacon Bond in Trouble about Preparing Wine for the Sacrament, being that he can neither go nor Send to Boston: Comes here for Advice.
1766 November 26 (Wednesday). [No entry.]
1766 November 27 (Thursday). Publick Thanksgiving. Text Rev. 1, latter part of v. 5 and v. 6. The Occasion of choosing this Text, see on the Sermon itself. May the Lord smell in our Feast a sweet Odor, through the Merits of Christ!
1766 November 28 (Friday). Mr. Joseph Green here and acquaints me with the Death of one of Mr. Samuel Fays Children, but not that which I went lately to see; but one that was a poor, weakly Child, distorted, and though 3 Years old, could not stand etc. N.B. Yesterday Morning Deacon Bond came to ask me to put by the Communion but I was not willing—his plea being that he could not get wine. I prayed him to try at Shrewsbury. To Day he succeeded there, and brought it there.
1766 November 29 (Saturday). Mr. Chamberlain sends a son with a Team—containing a Present of a Barrel of Cyder, 2 Baggs of Apples and several Bushels of Turnips. He dined here. P.M. attended the Burial of Mr. Fays Child. Interruptions too uncomfortable for me in my preparations. But I desire to resign to divine Providence.
1766 November 30 (Sunday). Omitt Reading. Delivered sermon on Luk. 23.33 with some Omissions etc. Administered the Lords Supper. P.M. on Rev. 1.5, latter part and v. 6. Mr. Cushing and Mrs. Maynard dined. Read Mr. Bolton at Evening. The Lord pardon etc., and accept our Offerings!
1766 December 1 (Monday). Deacon Tainter and Capt. Wood killed a young Ox for me. Weighed 21 Score. Mr. Jonathan Rogers of Ware River here, upon his Father Lulls Affair. He seems to want I should return him the 35 acre Lot; but upon my opening the Affair, he seems contented without expecting any more from me than what I have done. He dines here. I wrote in Mr. Lulls behalf, to Major Joseph Hawley Representative for Northampton, to forward a Compensation for his Loss by the Hampshire Line. Hannah Roberts at work making Sarahs and Suse’s Gowns. Mr. Hall of Sutton calls. Town Meet by adjournment upon the Affair of my Wood. They agree with Mr. Tainter for 50 lb. old Tenor. Messrs. James Maynard and Benjamin How, about the Shop for sabbath noons. Mr. Seth Morse brings me a Quarter of Beef of 94 lbs. at 15d Old Tenor.
1766 December 2 (Tuesday). Buy a store shoat of Mr. John Brigham and Mr. [blank] Stimpson Drovers—weighed 70 lbs. at 16d old Tenor. Deacon Tainter cutts and salts my Beef. He dines here. P.M. preach at Deacon Bonds (but he goes to Boston, to court, met him as we go to meeting) on Mat. 25.l0, last Clause from p. 69 to 81, omitting p. 74, part of p. 75 and p. 78. May it prove a thorough awakening to us! At Eve Mr. Steward and Master Cushing. Hannah Roberts here at work ut supra.
1766 December 3 (Wednesday). Sarah rode with me to Shrewsbury. Messrs. Steward and Cushing also went. Dined at Mr. Sumners: And Mr. Maccarty with us. I preached the Lecture on Mat. 26.48. A Cold Day and therefore I was short. The Grace of God be afforded that we may profit! Mr. Maccarty and I visited at Capt. Allens in the Eve; but we lodged at Mr. Sumners. Sarah at Mrs. Cushings. Caleb came again and p.m. went to work. It was thrashing.
1766 December 4 (Thursday). We returned home. I catechized a. and p.m. at the Meeting House. 57 Boys, and 34 Girls, though the Weather was cold. I earnestly wish the divine Concurrence, and efficacious Blessing. Hannah Roberts is carried home. Mr. [S?] Forbes brought my Watch from Boston.
1766 December 5 (Friday). I employed Neighbour Zebulun Rice, who assisted by Caleb, sets up two Posts south West and North West of the Well and nail up Boards, to make an high Fence to break off the Cold Winds from us, especially in drawing Water. Mr. Temple here, talks of buying my Single Ox, and my Calf.
1766 December 6 (Saturday). I rode to Upton. Met Mr. Fish at Mr. Childs. He [illegible] only to his Father Forbes’s. I lodged at Mr. Fish’s.
1766 December 7 (Sunday). [Upton.] I preached a.m. on Joh. 14.6, latter part. P.M. on Dan. 5.25. At Eve in returning called at Ensign Warrins and at Mr. Elijahs, where I supped. Arrived at home through much Difficulty, late and cold. Mr. Fish, Mr. Moore and Mr. Cushing lodged here. Mr. Moore came designing to preach for me, but finding Mr. Fish, went to Southborough. Mr. Fessenden also came, but went to Northborough. Mr. Fish preached on Ps. 130.7 and on Hos. 2.14.
1766 December 8 (Monday). Mr. Moore dined with us. Mr. Fish dines at Mr. Zebulun Rice’s, and preached a p.m. at Mr. William Nurse’s, on Joh. 11.40. We had some Discourse after the Exercise with Mrs. Smith in her gloominess. Thence I went to see aged Mrs. Byles and prayed with her.
1766 December 9 (Tuesday). John goes to Oxford for Caleb, and he works for it in Clearing in my Chauncy Swamp. Mr. Temple here, and takes my Calf to keep through the Winter at 6 Coppers per week.
1766 December 10 (Wednesday). John not being yet returned from Oxford, I borrowed Capt. Woods Horse and carryed my Wife to Squire Whipples (he having come to us on Monday Eve last, and invited us to his House, to come before 12). There we dined handsomely and Plentifully. Mr. Cushing who lodges there, and Dr. Crosby and his Wife also, with us. We had likewise the Pleasure of Mr. Stone of Southborough—for he and Mrs. Judith came to make us a Visit to Day; and my Daughter acquainting him where we were, he followed us, and came seasonably to dine there with us. We understand that the famous Bill for Compensation to the Sufferers, and of indemnifying the Offenders in the late Times, has passed in the House of Representatives though long has been the Struggle to obtain it. John returns at the Evening from Oxford with Calebs Cloths.
1766 December 11 (Thursday). Mr. Fessenden who is come from Boston, sollicits my going to his Ordination. I ask him to preach for me next Lords Day, and he complys.
1766 December 12 (Friday). Mr. Daniel Miller and his Nephew James Miller, came and clear in my Chauncy Swamp. Caleb and John are getting out Flax. I am hindered by various avocations—but am employed in Sermonizing. At Eve Mr. John Fessenden came to desire Baptism for his Child, and I examine him. Mr. Thomas Whitney here.
1766 December 13 (Saturday). Mr. Miller comes here before sunrise, and his Kinsman soon after, to Clear. Caleb works a.m. I borrowed 4 Dollars of Mrs. Johnson to pay him, and cleared with him, except 20/ old Tenor which he paid for me at Oxford, and which I owe him still. P.M. Caleb takes leave, and sets out for Framingham. Mr. Miller also breaks off before 3 p.m. and leaves us.
1766 December 14 (Sunday). By Reason of Mr. Fessendens complying, in Words, with my Desire that he would preach for me to Day, I did not finish the sermon I was composing, but depended upon him. I looked for him till I was obliged to put myself into some Capacity to preach my self. He came not—neither sent me any Message. I went to the Meeting House. I prayed—omitted Reading—I was obliged to repeat Sermon on Eccl. 8.13. At noon heard Mr. F. was sick. Mr. Cushing dined here. No word from Mr. F. I preached p.m. repeating sermon on Luk. 13.25 and read to v. 24. In the Evening read Mr. Bolton in my Family.
1766 December 15 (Monday). Went to Capt. Maynards to See what was the Matter with Mr. Fessenden and found him under a bad Cold—but he said he was not aware that his not preaching for me would be so great a Disappointment to me—and he was silent as to any Reason but [illegible] for his not sending me word of his not Coming. At Eve Mr. Daniel Forbes paid £20 upon his Note of Hand to Me.
1766 December 16 (Tuesday). I attended the Burial of Mr. Simeon Bellows’ Infant. Mr. Fessenden here. As he yesterday broached Some peculiar Notions about the Trinity, this Eve he goes on further therein. The Sum is, That there is no Trinity, but with respect to our Redemption. That there is no son of God before the New Testament. That there is not eternal Gen[eratio?]n. That Jesus is no otherwise the Son of God than as he was divinely conceived and born when he was so of the Virgin Mary. That the Father was the Author of the Old Creation, the Material Heavens and the Earth; the son whom he believes to be God, is Author of the New—that is, the Evangelic Oeconomy: And as for Joh. 1.1 and Col. 1.15.16.17 those Passages are to be taken Spiritually, and not literally. And whatever is said of him in the old Testament, it was Spoken Prophetically and would not take place till his Conception and Birth of Mary. As to the Appearances of old, to Abraham, Moses, Joshua, etc., they were Angels, Special and eminent, as the Angel of Gods Presence etc. I had Shewed him Turrettine etc.—but it was of no avail. He would adhere to the Bible, in interpreting which we made many Mysterys where there was none. He took leave, designing to go upon his Journey tomorrow: and I took leave, assuring him that I could not go to Walpole, and praying that God might be with him to give him Light and Grace, and prepare him for His service. John at Eve to Singing school kept by Mr. Thayer.
1766 December 17 (Wednesday). Deacon Tainter carrys to Boston Six large Fowls for us. Takes with him Caleb Winch’s Bundle. Memorandum: Sent 4 Dollars by Mr. Seth Morse to Cornet Brigham for Mrs. Beeman. John Goes to School from Day to Day.
1766 December 18 (Thursday). Burnets Theory entertains me more than at first.
1766 December 19 (Friday). In the Severe storm of this Time We have Health, Shelter, Fuel and many Comforts. Blessed be God for them! May the Lord extend Compassion to all that are suffering! Especially if any at Sea. Am Sermonizing. The little House stands, but the Weather-Fane blown down.
1766 December 20 (Saturday). A very difficult Day to stir in. The snow deep, blown about and drifted; the air cutting. John Arnold, from Mrs. Johnsons, comes at my Desire, p.m. to help my son John in cutting Wood for the Sabbath. But I had got my sermons ready before Sunsetting, some Time. May God impress deeply my own soul, with what I have prepared for others!
1766 December 21 (Sunday). Omitt the public Reading. Preached a. and p.m. on Prov. 17.25. Mr. Cushing and Miss Betty Got dined here. O that these Exercises may be to the Saving Good of the Hearers! But especially to my own and my Familys everlasting Benefit!
1766 December 22 (Monday). Mr. Samuel Forbush here enquiring into my Bounds at the Cook-Island, especially next to Mr. Daniel Hardys Meadow. Many Neighbours breaking Roads through the snow, with Cattle and Sleds. Rutherfords Letters.
1766 December 23 (Tuesday). Deacon Tainter returns from Boston—brings the Sad News of Elder Halseys and Mr. Nat. Procters sudden Deaths. May I be ever ready!
1766 December 24 (Wednesday). Mr. Thomas Temple here for a Bundel of Mr. Frosts Sermons, left for him by Deacon Tainter. I deliver them. The Bundle contained 20. He dined here. At Eve came Mr. James Maynard junior (of Shrewsbury). Wants to borrow of me the Alcoran—but I had it not.
1766 December 25 (Thursday). Went up into the Street on various Occasions. Reckoned with Mr. Silas Hill. Was at Mr. Zebulun Rice’s, his son Adam being there from Stafford. Thomas Arnold carrys to Mrs. Barrett of Hopkinton Vol. 1 and brings Chrysal Vol. 2 which I even hate to read, as they contain Such Depths of Satan; and fill me with deep sorrow for the monstrous Degeneracy of the Age. I am about my preparations. John at School from Day to Day.
1766 December 26 (Friday). Mr. Tainter and his Son dine here. Engaged in my Preparation.
1766 December 27 (Saturday). Capt. Benjamin Fay brought a Piece of Cloth for my Son William of about 10 Yards from Mr. William Brown of Framingham. Mr. John Prentice of Grafton here. Takes his Father’s Book (which I borrowed some time ago), Viz. the Volume of honorable Squire Boyle’s works which has the treatise of Seraphic Love.
1766 December 28 (Sunday). Omit the public Reading, it being exceeding Cold. Preached a. and p.m. on Rev. 1.6.—“Priests unto God and His Father.” Mrs. Betty Gott dined here. At Eve read in Mr. Bolton.
1766 December 29 (Monday). At Eve Mr. Jonathan Grout here and we reckon. I paid him by a Note to the Constable. Only 36/ old Tenor for Pasturing and feeding the Ox which we killed.
1766 December 30 (Tuesday). The storm confined and binds up the Hands of men. Difficult Watering our Cattle. They go to Capt. Woods Brook. But we have many Tokens of divine Goodness and The Cold does not prevent my studying.
1766 December 31 (Wednesday). The Year ends with extreme Cold weather. Such as is rarely felt. The Lord support us! For who can stand before His Cold! There are many Reasons for serious Reflections. Spent the Day chiefly by my Self. Great need to be humble and penitant for the many Defects and Miscarriages of the Year past. Implore remission through the Merits and Mediation of Jesus Christ. Would be seriously thoughtful of the Conclusion of my Life. Desire to mourn that I can fasten the Thought no more effectually upon my Mind and Heart. Lord make me know my End! And how very frail I am!
1 Lemuel Hedge (1734–1777), Harvard 1759; SHG 14:437–42.
2 Jedediah Jewtt (1705–1774), Harvard 1726 (SHG 8:64–8), minister of Rowely.
3 John Welch (1711–1789). See Mary Louise Brown, “John Welch, Carver,” Antiques (Jan. 1926), 28–30. He is best known for carving the “sacred cod” of Massachusetts.
