Thursday, February the 17th, 1859
This was a day long to be
remembered by me and the company I was in. My
dear and noble friend Lou B. was
married. I was first bridesmaid. I
walked with W.C. Richardson. Yes
this was the day that Lou and O.W. Privett
united hearts and hands. He had a
very agreeable time of it, a nice supper
and a jolly crowd. Formed an
acquaintance with R.M. Wrightly. Found him
a very interesting gent. The day
has passed off very pleasantly.
Saturday the 26th, 1859
This has been a beautiful day, so
calm and still, one never knows how to
appreciate fair weather until he
has passed through just such a dreary
spell as we have had for this
past week. I went to Salisbury today,
done a little shopping, had my
photograph taken. Stayed all night with
Mattie C. Will R. & Wright
came over and sat until twelve. He had quite
a lively time. T.L.H. came over
the next morning.
Friday, March 4th, 1859
This has been a very pleasant
day, with me. Fannie C. went to school with
me We went to Capt. Rose's; we had
a very pleasant time. I had the exquisite
pleasure of forming an
acquaintance with Mr. Goodman, he is rather
"jovial". Dr. Parker
came over also; we had some delightful music by Flake.
The evening passed off very
pleasantly, the company dispursed about ___a.m.
We were fearful Mr. G. would not
get to the valley in time for the cars.
Saturday March the 5th
Fannie, Mary, John and myself
rode down to Mrs. P's. Had our fortunes told.
Mine was very good, all
liked our fortunes quite well. We spent another very
pleasant evening. Mr. Halford and
Mr. Taylor stayed all night and three other
boys. Hary Rose is such good
company, so loquacious and witty, the very
life of our social circles.
J.H.C.V.C.
Tuesday March the 15
Another one of my associates has
promised to love, honor, and obey. So I
will pen the news that to Hymen's
altar J.W. Holford led Fannie Currie.
“Like some Lovebird
Without a sonata
I’ll travel down
The single state”
Tuesday, July the 12th, 1859
I rose this morning at two
o'clock, took the cars at Hickory Valley, arrived
at College Hill at ten in the
morning, found Uncle Gordon quite ill and was
delighted to see me. "A
false friend is like a shadow on the sundial, which
appears in fine weather but
vanishes at the appearance of a cloud."
College Hill, Saturday, July
23rd, 1859
-I have enjoyed myself very well
for the last two weeks, formed several new
acquaintances during my visit at
my Uncle's. I am now at the flag station,
waiting for the cars. Uncle is
taking a sleep on a bench just opposite me
while I am amusing myself
entering notes.
Sunday January the 1st, 1860
New Year's day finds me at Capt.
Rose's. Mollie and I spent a very pleasant
morning. In the evening, we
started home, called at Mr. Crew's. Kit came
home with us, we had quite a
jolly time joking about Leap year, practicing
making speeches. All of our
family are together except Sister Kate. A
beautiful moon light night,
although very cold. C.C. remained until eight,
then went home. I received a
large New Year's gift-a heart. Commenced
reading the testament.
Monday Jan. 2d 1860
This morning I commenced my
year's work , am in hopes I'll be able to do
much good. I made two caps. Mr.
Lake called this morning. Pa left to
be gone two or three weeks. Sam
went home with Mollie R. Think he is
somewhat smitten. Mollie says she
has made a speech to him. Ella is
talking extensively of going to Winchester.
Think the fervor will soon
wear off. Lila is somev1hat
indisposed today.
Tuesday, Jan. the 3d, 1860
This day has passed off very
monotonously. We are all very busy sewing.
I am working a binding. We are
lonely tonight. I wish it were so that Pa
could be here with us.
Wednesday, J·an. 4th, 1860
We have been quilting. It has
been some time since we were all at home
together. After supper, Lila entertained
us with dreams of her future
happiness, she imagines she is
really in love. May her life be as bright
as her anticipations.
Thursday, Jan. 5th , 1860
In the evening Ella and I took a
walk, gathered some holly sprigs. A
beautiful moon light night. Ma and
myself took rather a novel wa1k,
talked of love and courtship, as
moonlight evenings are favorable for
such. Weather still cold.
Friday, Jan. 6th, 1860
This is my birthday, received a
very nice present from Ella; a pair of
kid gloves. I am braiding Ella a
cap. It is raining, maybe the ground
will thaw .
Saturday, January the 7, 1860
One of Mr. Dickerson's boys
brought us some work. I patched my dress after
supper.
Sunday, January 8th
S.T.A . came and spent the day.
After dinner miss Jane N. and the two Misses Lakes came and stayed all night.
Mary brought her doll. The children had a nice time playing dolls. We all sat
up quite late, enjoyed ourselves finely.
Monday, Jan. the 9th, 1860 _
Sam and I went to Saulsbury,
called on Mrs. McGeehee. I bought a few articles. We stayed all night with
Sister Kate. I made her a present of a dress. Mr. Beard is somewhat indisposed.
Tuesday, Jan. 10th
A very disagreeable morning, but we
started home. We called on Lou P. on
our return, had a very pleasant
chat with my dear old friend. Commenced my
dress after supper.
Wednesday, Jan. 11th
Ma & myself are sewing on my
dress. Ella is at Hrs. Ham's. This is Lila's
birthday. The weather is somewhat
imclement today.
Thursday, Jan. 12
I arose unusually late this morning.
S.T. called. We have been joking about
her beau having a chat with her
ma. There is to be a wedding near Middleburg
tonight, they have a cold time to
celebrate their nuptials, they should love
warmly.
Jan. 13th, 1860
Nothing occurred today worth recording,
we are all very busy sewing and cleaning up. Very disagreeable weather.
Saturday the 14th
Bright and early this morn S.T.
called and remained a few hours. We are
all busy cooking. Ella's marriage
supper-as she speaks of the solemn vowis
tomorrow. Ella took a long cry
after supper . I sung the Bride's Farewell
for her.
Sunday, Jan. 15th
Today there was preaching at Van
Buren, but moving to the inclemency of the weather we did not attend. This
evening at three o'clock Ella was married
to S. T. Avent by Eld. Jonn
Chambers. May the blessings of heaven seek this couple. Parsen C. says a
beautiful ceremony . There were several gentlemen
present. T.C. & L.L. Moore,
Dr. Puckett, Scott , Marshall & Mr. Lake’s
family.
Monday, Jan. l6th/60
We had a rather serious time this
morning when Ella was about to take her departure, Sam, Lucie and myself went
with her over to Mr. Marshall’s and spend the day. We miss her very much tonight
around the family hearth. I sat up sometime after the family had retired,
writing some letters, had some to write for Pa and then to write in my journal.
Tuesday, Jan. 17th, 1860
I find it a difficult task to
settle down to any work. Late in the evening Lucie, Lila & myself went to
Mr. Lake’s. The children had a doll party, they appeared to enjoy themselves
very much indeed. Mr. J.M.D. and myself participated in their amusements. Mr.
Spinks was present at supper. We have quite a joke on J.M. about it breaking
down playing, but he denys the assertion. I heard some news of importance.
Wednesday , Jan. the 18th, 18fi0
I assisted Miss Jane in sewing
for the children. The girls went to town and bought two doll dresses, came home
and made one. Mrs. Jane and myself had a fine time quarreling about our beau
and telling him the rules for Leap Year, one of the gentlemen said he would
give his horse any time to make a speech. We are all learning how to make
trimming. Retired late.
Thursday, Jan. the 19th, 1860
Mrs. Jane & I marked all the
girl's clothing and then spent the remainder of
the day with Mrs. Ham, she is
somewhat indisposed. In the evening Ma came
over, we took a look at Mrs. H's
new house. Miss J.V. and I walked part of
the way home with Ma, then went
to see Laura Moore who was very glad to see
us. Tom came in and spent a few
hours with us. We had a serinade.
Friday, Jan. the 20th, 1860
I came home quite early this
morning, sewed until noon, then Ma & myself
went over to see Ella. Mr. V.,
Mrs. Ham, Mrs. Jane & Mary Lake 1.-ient also,
there was quite a merry crowd of
us. We had a great deal of sport at Miss
-Mattie 1 s expense, Ma was j
eking her about marrying. . But she appeared not
to like the beau Ma picked out
for her, says she would not be the second,
much less the third wife of a
man.
Saturday, Jan. the 21th, 1860
Spent the morning in writing.
Ella sent for her trunks. I am learning a
new stile of embroidery, worked
two pieces. Ma spent the evening at Mr.
Lakes, she went to bid farewell
to Miss Jean Nabors. I am truly sorry
she is. going to leave our
neighborhood, think she will be greatly missed.
Pa has not returned. I am
teaching the children.
Sunday, Jan. the 22d, 1860
This has been a beautiful day
& the evening is not less fair. How anxious
I ·was to attend church as Dr.
Gray was to preach his last sermon at Saulsbury.
But alas! I was doomed to be
disappointed. Ma & I spent the day
at Mr. Howard’s, found the family
convalescing. In the evening we all
walked over to Mr. Halford's
residence. George was my escort. Read and
wrote some after supper.
Monday, Jan. 23, 1860
Ma & myself went to Van Buren
shopping. Fell in company with Dr. Rusell
& Jack; we had a great deal
of fun with Jack, we then called at Mr. Moore's
and spent the evening.
Tuesday, Jan. 24th
Ella came over and spent the day.
S.G.A. came in the evening and stayed
all night, we enjoyed ourselves
very well. Sat up quite late.
Wednesday, Jan . 25th
I finished my dress, Ma is scwing
for me. A peddler stayed all night here,
entertained us with a short
history of his life.
Thursday, the 26
I . finished a piece of embroidery.
After dinner went over to bid Ella
farewell. We had quite a lively
time. L.D. Marshall came while I was
there, did not bring his lady as
we anticipated. Ella & Hiss Hattie walked
a part of the way with me.
Friday, Jan. the 27th, 1860
This morning I bid the loved ones
at home adieu, I left in high hopes,
anticipating much pleasure. It is
well that we can not know the future.
How many, many happy hours would
be blighted if we could gaze into the
dim vista of the future. The
Alwise knows what is best. Mattie Chambers
and I went shopping this evening.
Will C. came in and had a chat with
me & gave us some music.
Mattie and I had a "serinade", we enjoyed it
very much indeed.
Saturday, January the 28th, 1860
I rose this morning at four
o'clock, Parson Chambers accompanied me to
the depot, took the cars, arrived
in Memphis at nine a.m., formed several
new acquaintances, found Aunt
Grider very sick indeed, Cousin Delight
was here when I arrived. Mrs. Wm.
Grider is quite a lively lady and her
sister is quite a
"butterfly". Augusta Heathman called on us. Cousin
Wm. returned from St. Louis and
is quite sick. Bro. Hamilton called and
had prayers. Lou Harten stayed
all night with us.
Sunday, January the 29th, 1860
The young ladies and gentlemen
went to church. I remained with Aunt.
The dr. and several visitors came
in. I felt an inclination to write
to my friends at home but fearing
my letter would be rather melancholy,
I will postpone it until a more
suitable time. I feel and know that
I am too sensitive, oh would that
it were not so, but nature has formed
me as such. The two Mr. Griders
and myself and Cousin went to night
meeting. Rather a laughable
circumstance occured during services. I read a chapter and retired.
Monday, January the 30th. 1860
I spent the morning very
pleasantly. Cousin Will is convalecent, Delight
& Mollie went to town. I did
a little sewing in the morning, several
ladies called. I am very much
pleased with Mrs. Paston (?) and Mrs.
Moon. John sat in our room a few
hours after supper. A very nice gent
called on us. John had made
Delight promise not to dip any more snuff.
I am in hopes she nay keep the
promise. Oh, my journal, you only will
I confide in, I feel very meloncholy
tonight.
Tuesday , January 31st, 1860
Nothing occured worth recording.
Aunt is convalescing. Cousin John &
Deilght & I spent a very
pleasant evening. John brought some letters
and appeared to be in fine spirits.
Raining.
Wednesday,
Feb. 1st
Snowed today, we had no visitors.
We spent the morning in Cousin Mollie's
room. She is so lively, we had nice
time drinking cordial, wine and
port. Delight got pretty merry on
the occasion.
Thursday, Feb. the 2d, 1860
I spent the morning sewing. After
dinner we took a drive up in town, formed several new acquaintances. Tonight we
attended a marriage at the Methodist Church, Miss Scrugs and Mr. Horton. We
went home with Lou Horton, formed Mr. Black’s and Mr. Anderson’s acquaintance.
Miss Lou and Mr. B are wonderfully enamored with each other. John appeared to
be angry with us about disappointing him. I heard a secret.
·Friday, Feb. the 3d, 1860
Mrs. Wright called on Aunt.
Cousin Mollie spent the day at her fathers, Cousin
& I dined by ourselves. We
had a very pleasant time sewing, reading & talking.
______ came home with Mollie,
we had a good deal of fun with John.
Saturday the 4th
Delight made us all believe she
was going home. I wrote in her album. Lou
Horton came down & stayed all
night. We had a very nice time. Sat up quite
late. Lou told me a secret.
Sunday Feb. 5th, 1860
We all went to preaching-heard an
excellent sermon from Parson Hamilton. John
& Will went to a funeral
after dinner. I took a nap with Cousin Mollie. After
supper we went to preaching at
the Methodist Church, there was a very large
congregation out. Mr. B. was
paying his attention to Miss Lou. Lou insisted
on me staying all night with her.
Said she would give me a nice beau. Aunt
was quite sick.
Monday Feb. the 6th, 1860
In the forenoon I made a bonnet.
Mollie and Delight went visiting late in the
evening. I called on Miss
Heathman, formed an acquaintance with Misses Neely,
am very much pleased with them.
Aunt is quite sick this evening, called in the
physician. J. S. showed us some
of his compositions, gave us a glowing description of love. I sat up
quite late reading. The moon was in an eclipse.
Tuesday, Feb. the 7th, 1860
I have been rather idle today.
Delight went to see the minstrels in company with Cousin Will & lady. I
remained at home with Aunt. I felt very melancholy. Aunt does not appear to
mend any. Wm. Grider is here. I have come to the conclusion that I would not
like city life greatly. Prefer country-begin to wish to see the home folks.
Wednesday the 8th, 1860
This morning Mollie & myself
went shopping, formed several new acquaintances. Mr.(?) called on
the dentist, had a tooth extracted, found it to be a very severe apparition. In
the evening we attended the Opera, I was very much pleased.
Thursday Feb. the 9th, 1860
This morning I cut out my dress
and sewed on it. Mollie went out visiting.
Cousin Will went out to his farm
and did not return. John went out larking.
Miss Neely and brother called,
she is quite a lively lady, expects to leave
the city soon. Had a invitation
to a party. Guess I’ll not attend. Aunt
was not well as usual tonight.
Friday the 10th, 1860
Lou Horton spent the day with us.
Mr. Smith came to see Aunt. Lou made a
speech to him, he accepted of her
proposals, I think he rather plagued her.
I finished my dress. The girls
think they have me wonderfully quizzed about
Delight marrying but they are
very much mistaken. Aunt was taken very sick
in the night, sent for the Dr.
She fainted in the night. We sat up with her.
Saturday, Feb. 11th, 1860
This was the day that I set to go
home but Aunt is much worse, and I will
remain until she takes a change.
Dr. called this morning, says Aunt has a
return of the feavor. I am
fearful she will never recover, but I think she
is prepared for death. But if it
was the Lord's will I would be happy to
think she could be raised from
her bed of affliction. Mrs. Small came to see
Aunt, she is such a kind lady to
the sick.
Sunday Feb. the 12th, 1860
The Dr. visited Aunt and
pronounced her better. I spent the morning in
reading. Miss Bettie S. called
this evening. I find her a very agreeable
girl, she brought Delight a
bridal present as she had heard she was going
to marry. Cousin Will & lady
to a ride. We went to evening preaching at
the Methodist church. Parson
Hamilton preached an excellent sermon. Delight
& I sat up most of the night
with Aunt. I read a very interesting story.
Monday, Feb. the 13th, 1860
Parson Mullins visited Aunt this
morning. I am very much pleased with him.
He prays an excellent prayer.
This is a very gloomy morning, raining so
constantly, calculated to make
one feel melancholy. I received a letter
from Ma which gave great pleasure
but still I was compelled to take a cry.
There is ever something to cast a
gloom upon my brightest hopes and
anticipations.
Tuesday, February the 14th, 1860
Still raining, will again be
thwarted in my plans as I expected to have
gone shopping. This is Valentine's
day but I guess I'll not send any.
John says he' s going to send one
to each of his sweethearts. After supper
I packed my trunk. Delight and me
had a long talk, feel rather sad as this
is my last night in Memphis. We
retired late after looking at a most
beautiful picture.
Wednesday Feb. the 15th, 1860
This morning I rose at four, bade
all the family adieu, John accompanied
me to the depot, to my sorrow,
the cars had left. I returned and stayed
until evening. Mrs. Aston called,
Uncle Wm. Gordon came to see Aunt and
he came up the road with me as
far as the Junction. I had a splendid time
on the cars, had company with
several of my old acquaintances. Parson
Chambers met me at the depot.
Mattie & I chatted until quite late.
Thursday, Feb. 16th, -1860
T.C.M. called on Mattie &
myself. I spent the morning very pleasantly,
we took a long walk, an hour or
longer. In the evening Sam came after
me, I called on Hrs. Hancock,
then home. They were all overjoyed to
see me at home once more. We had
a great deal of news to communicate
to each other. Ma & I did not
retire until twelve p.m.
Friday, Feb. 17th, 1860
Ma & I called on Ella this
morning. Ella is going to housekeeping, showed
us her table furniture. The rain
began to fall & we borrowed an unberalla
and came home. I cut out a
garment & commenced sewing.
Saturday the 18
Clear again, S.T. & Ella came
over to see us, curled my hair, very becoming.
Sam went to a debate.
Sunday the 19th, 1860
Pa came home this morning. Sam,
Ella & Mat came by and went to church, there
were a good many out. Mrs. Rose, Mollie
& Flake came home with us & took
dinner. Henry Beard came &
brought the glad tidings that I had a namesake
at his house. I was delighted to
learn it. I am laying bright plans for
little Laura's future. Joe M.
called on me this evening, we had quite a
jolly time. I wrote three letters
and retired.
Monday, Feb. the 20th , 1860
Ma went over to see Sis. Kate. Pa
to the Junction. I went to see Mrs.
House, found her quite sick-had a
long chat with Mrs. Ham. I went to
Mr. Martin's store, while there I
heard a great deal of news. Mr. M. &
Esq. H. carried me high about a
valentine they accused me of sending.
Ella & Miss Mat spent the
evening with me. I spent an hour looking over
my "old letters" which
I found to be very interesting.
Tuesday, Feb. the 21st, 1860
Pa left this morning. I am
feeling very badly, fearful I’ll have a spell.
of sickness. Mr. Lake spent the
day with us, had a great deal to say
about a valentine he received,
accuses me of sending it. Rained all the
evening, the sunset was clear. We
all feel rather lonely, as neither of
our parents are with us. All the
children said a lesson to me before we
retired.
Wednesday, Feb. the 22d, 1860
I sewed all the morning. Harriet
Howard & brother came to see us. Ma
came home about one o’clock. Dr.
Puckett called on me this evening- says
he begins to feel rather old, don’t
like the idea of being an old
bachelor. Sam came to see Joe M.
Thursday, Feb. the 23d
Lucie went to Van & brought
out two rolls of domestic. I done some
repairing and made Lila a dress
& wrote to Mr. Wall. Do not think
I am able to teach school yet.
Friday, Feb. the 24th, 1860
I have been very busy, made t\W
garments. Nothing occured worth recording.
My cold is still very bad.
Saturday the 25th
Mr. Dickerson & John Thornton
(?) called this morning. Pa came home. Mr.
Ham came out to see us. Ella came
over and spent a few hours with us.
Sam went home with her and went
to the debate.
Sunday, Feb. the 26th, 1860
Pa, Sam & myself went to
preaching at Saulsbury, heard an excellent sermon
from Dr . Gray. Saw many of may
friends and old schoolmates. Stopped a
few moments at Prewitts. Lou was
very glad to see me, not more so than
I was to see her. We had company
most of the way home. went to see Ella
& Sam, we had a very pleasant
time, they walked part of the way with us.
Monday Feb. the 27th, 1860
Ma & myself commenced the
task of making a half dozen shirts. In the
afternoon we went to see Mrs. Russell,
a very pleasant visit, then to
see Mrs. Moore, Found her sick.
Mrs. Ham was there. We had a long chat about her particular friend.
Tuesday Feb. 28th
Ella spent the morning with us,
took Lila home with her. Joe M. called in,
we had a jolly confab about a
love letter I found, he says he did not write
it.
Wednesday, Feb. the 29th, 1860
It has been raining most of the
day. I received a note from Ella. She sent
for her cow. Ma and I have been
sewing. I feel somewhat indisposed this
evening. Ma made me some cough
medicine.
Thursday March the 1st
Sam received quite a quiz rather
late for Valentines. I heard that I was
to be married today. Went to see
Mollie Rose. Formed an acquaintance
with Mr. Wm. Rose & lady, was
very much pleased with Mr. Rose.
Friday March the 2d, 1860
We spent the morning very
pleasantly. Mollie gave me some shrubbery.
Sam helped to get it up. After
dinner we all went fishing. We did not
have very good luck as it was so
windy. Mollie & I concluded we would
try our "luck" at
fishing on dry land. I caught one fish that was
worth having. Mollie and Willie
came home with me, found all well at
home. Harriet Howard called awhile.
We looked for company, but was
disappointed in receiving
visitors.
Saturday March the 3rd, 1860
Mollie & I started out
visiting this morning, we took a long ride, then
went to see Ella & Mrs. Marshall,
came home to dinner, spent an hour
or so, then went to see Mrs. Moore,
they had been to the shore. I
received two letters. When we
again returned home we found J. Lake
who had come after us, we went
and stayed all night with Miss Jane &
Margaret, we had quite a nice
time. Joe McDaniel performed on the
violin. We showed our love
letters and had fine sport over them.
Sunday, March the 4th, 1860
Mr. Lake and Mr. McDaniel
insisted on us going to church but we did not
have on our Sunday rigging, so we
did not go. The gentlemen went and
returned about one o'clock. We
claimed their watches for not bringing
some ladies home with them. Miss
Jane & the girls went back to Saulsbury
and we came home, the gents with
us-found Ella & Mr. Avent at home.
We had a very lively chat, Mollie
went home, did not find her purse.
Mr. A. says we cannot put out a
reward for our hearts.
Monday, March the 5th, 1860
Wrote some letters. Sam went to
Van Buren. Raining. Nothing occured
worth recording. No visitors.
Tuesday the 6th
Ella came over early this
morning. Ma & I spent the day at the Spinks.
Mrs. S. showed us how the sewing
machine operated. we are very much
pleased with it. Margaret Harris
was there, had commenced her school. We had a long chat together. I stayed all
night with Ella. Had a good laugh at Ella & Sam.
Wednesday, March the 7th
I came by Ella's garden with her,
she insisted on me remaining longer with
her. Ma is gardening. I have been
assisting her some-I also worked in
the flower garden, we have some
beautiful flowers in bloom. Spring has
come again in her most beautiful
apparel. How I love to watch the budding
flowers. I think I'll soon have
variety enough to make a beautiful bouquet.
Thursday, March the 8th, 1860
Raining nearly all day. We are
quite busy sewing, nothing occured worth
recording. I am teaching Lila,
she is learning very well.
Friday, March the 9th
Ella came over and spent a few
hours with us, she is looking very well.
Martin Dickenson came this evening
after his sewing. Late in the morning
Ma & I walked to Van Buren.
We went to the store, then to see Mrs. Moore.
We had a good deal of sport after
the girls got out their quilt. J.M. passed by.
Saturday, March 10th, 1860
I spent the day with Ella, commenced
lamp mat. ·Ella & Mrs. M. were
joking Ma about their beaus. Pa
returned, he is not very well, he gave
me a glowing description of a
fast young widower.
Sunday, March the 11th
Ma & I went to Saulsbury to
preaching, then to Mr. Beard's. Little Laura
is very pretty. Mr. McGee and
lady called on us, they are very lively,
have a beautiful little girl.
Retired late.
Monday, March the 12th, 1860
We left Mr. Beard’s early in the
morning, took dinner at Mr. Dickerson’s, got bord for Lucie, called at the
Institute. We then went to Saulsbury and done our shopping and then came home.
Tuesday the 13th
We found one of our cows dead
this morning. Ma & I spent the day at Mr.
Moore's. Worked on Laura's silk
dress. Mrs. Ham spent the day there too.
Had a very jolly time.
Wednesday March the 14th, 1860
Ella spent the morning with us.
We are very busy preparing Lucy to go to
school. I feel very badly today.
Wrote a letter.
Thursday, March the 15th
Sam went to Saulsbury, did not
return until quite late, brought a letter
& paper. We have been very
busy finishing Lucie’s dress. No visitors today,
I am getting rather lonesome,
times are so dull. I wish our neighbors were more sociable.
Friday, March the 16, 1860
I finished Lucie's dress, heard Lila's
lesson, and after dinner Ma & I
went to see Ella, she is looking
very badly, took a chill. She thinks
Lucy had better stay at home this
session.
Saturday the 17th
Heard the death of Geo. Mauldin.
Ma, Lucie & Lila went to preaching. I remained at home and kept house. Mr.
M. was here to dinner. In the
afternoon I read and then painted
a small piece. We spoke of going to
night meeting, but Sam could not
go.
Sunday,
March the 18th, 1860
We went to preaching out at Van Buren.
Parson Valentine preached, the first
time I have heard him, there was quite a crowd out, some came in late, from
the burying. I was very much surprised to see Dr. Puckett among the crowd.
He had just returned from visiting his jularkey (?), he dined with us.
Sam Rose was talking about having a picnic.
Joe McDaniel called on us this
evening, took tea with us, Sam went to
preaching with Joe.
Monday,
March the 19th, 1860
This morning I commenced my school with two scholars, Lucie & Lila. I am
very anxious about them, hope they will learn fast, think it is
better than
for them to
go off to school.
I commenced working my ottomans today, wrote a letter.
Tuesday the 20th
Ella came over and spent an hour or two, I
went to see Mrs. Horn, she is
quite lovely, called on Mrs. Russell in the afternoon, saw Mr. Wheeler,
stayed alnight with Laura. We sat up quite late. Tom
gave us some music.
Wednesday
the 21s·t, 1860
Ma went to see Mr. Howard, thinks he is some better. I am teaching the
children and working on my ottomans all the
leisure I have. I have been
suffering with the neuralgia today.
Thursday the 22d
I have been very busy all day with my embroidery. Nothing has occured of
interest, no visitor, times are so dull. I wish something would
transform
to disturb the monotony.
Friday March the 23rd, 1860
I have read but very little and written comparitively nothing this week.
I must devote more time to my literary pursuits, but I am always so busy
sewing, I do wish I had a machine that I might devote more time to the
cultivation of my mind. I assisted Ma this evening in the culinary
department. We had good luch with our cake. Joy, great joy! I have
finished my ottaman.
Saturday March
the 24th
This morning was so very cold and the wind so high that I thought we had
better postpone our long anticipated fishing party to some more suitable
day. Mrs. McGee, Mr. McDaniel and several others came by from the picnic, which
came near a being' a failure, thought they had quite a joke on me
but I turned it on Mr. Mc. I went home with Margaret. We sat up quite
late and had a long, long chat about the match making machine.
Sunday
March the 25th, 1860
Ma & I took a long walk and had a long chat of course. In the afternoon
we went to Mr. Howard’s, he is some better, they had a great deal of
company. Harriet came home with us and stayed all night with Lucie. I
wrote several letters, one to Whiteville. I
have been feeling very sad
today.
Monday,
March the. 26th, 1860
I spent the morning in sewing, in the afternoon Ha, Lucie & myself went
fishing, we did not catch anything, we then went
to Mrs. ________.
I had my fortune told, it was a very good
one, good
luck, much pleasure,
fine beaux, marry this year. Mr. Avent & Ella came over this evening,
stayed all night. Pa came back from the
Junction, we sat up quite late, had
a jolly time.
Tuesday,
March the 27th, 1860
Pa left this morning. Ma and myself spent
the day with Mrs. Chairs. Sophia
showed us her fur cape, loaned me her
ottaman to work by. I finished my
lamp mat, Mrs. C. was very much pleased
with it, had a short chat with Ragin.
Sophia and I gathered a nice bouquet, we
enjoyed ourselves very well.
Mrs. C. and Sophia walked part of the way
with us, she joked me about her
neighbor.
Wednesday,
March the 28th, 1860
We found Joe the horse quite sick this
morning, we are fearful he will
make an exit. Sam went to Van and got some
medicine and doctored him,
he is some better this evening. I made me a
silk cap and a head dress.
Thursday
March 29
I have been attending to domestic affairs,
made my namesake a dress.
Ella spent the evening with us, I went home
with her and stayed all night.
Friday,
March the 30th, 1860
I commenced my ottaman this morning, have
been sewing very constantly.
Ma is gardening, I assisted some in the
late evening.
Saturday,
March the 31st
Ella & Mr. Avent called on their way to
Saulsbury. I am thinking they'll
have a disagreeable time as their is some appearance of rain.
I gardened
awhile this morning, made two garments,
thus ends the first Spring month,
and what have I done and of what do we
omit? Would that I could do more.
Sunday,
April the 1st, 1860
I spent the forenoon in reading and
writing. Received a letter from Delight
She appears to be in fine spirits. Miss
Justice and Miss Howard gave us a
short call. Ma and I took a long walk.
Monday,
April the 2d
Ella spent the morning with us, told us the
news from Saulsbury. I made
Ma a fine bonnet, I think it does very well
for my first. Helped Ma garden,
I like the business very well.
Tuesday,
April the 3d, 1860
I have been very busy all day working on my
ottoman, feel very near worn out,
close confinement does not agree with me.
Wednesday
the 4th
This has been a very pleasant day with me.
I received four letters and my
magazines. Mr. Ham gave us a call this morning. Mollie Rose & Willie
spent the day with us, we had a very
pleasant time, she told me a great
deal of news.
I finished
my ottaman.
Thursday,
Apr. the 5th, 1860
I spent the morning
in domestic
affairs-made a garment. Ella spent the
evening with us, Ma & I walked part
of the way back with her. Reading
the Ladies Book[1].
Friday the
6th
I spent the morning working in the flower yard, I find it very pleasant
exercise. Made some tissue flowers, think they look very well for the first.
Pa gave us quite an agreeable surprise in
coming home a day sooner than we
expected.
Saturday
the 7th 1860 ~
I attended a grand fish fry at Anderson’s mill, there
was quite a crowd
out, old folks, young folks and children all came and enjoyed life finely,
the gents had previously caught a great quantity of fish,
provision was
plentiful. The gents displayed their gallantry, and the ladies their
most
bewitching smiles. Conversation flowed freely intermingled with wit and
wisdon, all went merry as a wedding bell.
Sunday
April the 8th
I spent the morning in reading, wrote three letters. This is a very
lonesome morning . Ella & Mr. Avent spent the evening with us. We
enjoyed ourselves very well reading. Ella and I 'took a walk, had a
long chat.
Monday the
9th
Pa left this morning. I wrote two business
letters. We carded bats and put in my quilt. Read Godey’s Ladie’s books which
are very interesting this year.
Tuesday, Apr. the 10th, 1860
Ella came over arid spent the morning, heard the death of Mary Harris
Previtt.
Oh, what a shock it must have been for her parents. I do
truly sympathise with her bereaved husband and family. She died very happy.
Short and happy was her life. Farewell Mary! No more will I
behold that happy loving face. "Thy life \vas a happy one, none knew her
but to love her" can truly be said of thee! I hope that thou art gone
where no tears are ever shed, where parting will be known no more.
Wednesday, Apr. the 11th, 60
Lucie is sick today, I read a good deal in Arthur's magazine[2]. I feel
very sad today. I have been thinking so much of Mary who died in a
strange country away from the friends of her youth. I have heard of
six or seven other deaths, Hr. Fentrell, Mr. Cox, Pankie and several
others.
ThursCiay
the l2th
We finished my quilt, Ma and Lucie spent the evening with Ella . Miss
Mattie Marshall left this neighborhood today.
Friday,
Apr. the 13th, 1860
I done some sewing and read awhile. Mr. Lake and Bogin Chairs spent
the evening with us, we had quite a pleasant time. We joked Mr. L. about
his new sweetheart.
Saturday the 14th
We went to preaching, Parson Savage preached. In the evening Ma and I
went to see Mr. Howard, found him convelescing. Had the pleasure of
conversing with our neighbor Mr. Wheeler. He is quite an interesting
man. I made some nice pickles.
Sunday,
Apr. the 15th, 1860
Sam and I went to preaching , there was quite a
crowd out .
We did not
get
home until three o'clock. Ma and Lucie went
to see Ella, she is quite sick.
I was so much fatiqued, I remained at home
and read all the evening.
Mon. Apr.
the 16th
Ella sent for me this morning, so I went
and took her a nice bouquet, she was
very much pleased with it. Mr. Avent went
to Middlebury. Ella had a very
severe pain at the heart. Mrs. M. and I
made some cakes. Ella was better
when I left.
Tuesday,
April the 17th, 1860
We had a rain last night, everything looks
so beautiful this morning, all
things appear to be refreshed. I notice
that we have twelve different
kinds of flowers. The vegetables are
growing finely. I was disappointed
this evening, started to see Lou, the rain
began to fall and I had to
return. I will endeavor to bear all small
disappointments with cheerfulness.
We received a note from Ella, she is
convalescing. I faced two dresses.
Read some in Godeys,
Lila is
learning to knit and studying also. Sam is
breaking his horse.
Wednesday,
Apr. the 18th, 1860
Raining again this morning. Pa took a
notion after dinner to start out
again. Ma spent the evening with Ella. I am
piecing on my quilt.
Thursday
the 19th
I had a chill last night and feel very
badly today. I am hardly able to
sew. I read several pieces in Arthur's
magazine.
Friday, 20
I have performed a sad task today, in
looking over the letters of my
departed friend Mary. Ella and Sam stayed
all night. I made a thorn
basket.
Tom Puckett
sat until bedtime.
Saturday
Apr. the 21st, 1860
I have been feeling very sad today. I made
Sam a neck handkerchief. Mr.
Lake spent the evening with us. Received Godey's magazine and a letter.
Sun::lay the 22d
I have been sick all day. Pa came home, has
bought Sam a fine mule. I read
most of the day.
Monday the
23d
I have been confined to my bed all day.
Lucie went to see Ella, she is
sick. I have been piecing on a quilt for my
little namesake Laura Beard.
Tuesday,
Apr. the 24th, 1860
This morning as I was so much better I
thought I'd go to see my friend
Lou Previtt. Found her well and quite happy, we spent a very happy .day .
Took a long walk and talked of old times .
Wednesday,
Apr. the 25
Lou gave me some cedars, we went to see
Mrs. Ann Previtt, she is in a great
deal of trouble . I gathered a nice bouquet, bade them all goodbye and
started home. I had been home but a very short time when I took
a severe
spell of the neuralgia. Pa sent for medicine and I was soon relieved.
Thursday,
Apr. the 26th, 1860
I was some better today though very weak. I
have been sewing some,
finished Laura's quilt. We planted the
flower seeds. Ma spent ·the
evening with Ella.
Friday,
Apr. the 27th
I have not been able to sit up any today.
Mrs. Ham spent the evening with
us, she is in fine spirits. Thinks I am very
industrious to sit up in the
bed and sew.
Saturday
the 28th
I took a ride this evening, called at Mr. Moore's, got some papers
and
a book out of the P.O. Ma and I sat up quite late.
Sunday,
Apr. the 29th, 1860
I spent the morning in reading. Mr. Avent and Ella spent the
evening with
us. Ella and I took a long walk. I told her a secret. Mr. Lake took
supper with us, he was very lively.
Monday, Apr.
the 30th
I sewed on my quilt, Ella spent the morning
with us, whe is looking much
better.
Tuesday,
May 1st
Ma and I quilted Laura's crib quilt. This
has been a most beautiful May
day where shall I be one year from today?
Wednesday,
May 2d, 1860
Pa and I went to Saulsbury, I bought my summer goods, there were a good
many ladies shopping. We went out to Mr. Beard's and stayed all night,
found them all well, we sat up quite late.
Thursday
the 3d
This morning we started for home, stopped in town, made a few
purchases
and came on home. I was very much wearied, walking so far in the heat of
the day. I repaired my parasol in the evening. Ma was very well pleased
at the selection I had made.
Friday, May the 4th, 1860
Lila and myself spent the day at Cap. Roses,
we enjoyed ourselves very
much indeed. Mollie and I had a long confab. I learned Mrs. Rose how
to
knit the lamp mats. They all insisted on me staying all night and
going
fishing tomorrow.
Saturday
the 5
I spent the morning with Ella. In the evening I went to Mrs. Chairs, spent
a very pleasant time. We gathered a nice bouquet, took tea with them and
then returned home. Bagin came part this way with me.
Sunday, May the 6th, 1860
We went to preaching out at Canaan, Mr. Lake went with us, heard an excellent
sermon from. Walker. Saw many of my old friends, we took dinner with Mr.
Bailey's family. I felt at home to be with so many of my old
friends. Joe
Mc. went home with Miss B. We took a look at Mr. R.'s new house, had
a pleasant ride home. Mr. Lake did not take tea
with us. I feel somewhat
wearied after my long trip .
Monday,
May the 7th, 1860
P.B. Chairs came after me this evening.
Sophia was very glad to see me. Mrs.
C. had a great deal to tell me about our
neighbor. I'll spend the week with
Mrs. C.
Thursday
the 8th
We cut out Sophia's dress. Bagin gave us
some music, we spent a very pleasant
evening. Bagin read for me while we sewed. I made a nice bouquet.
We
sat up quite late.
Wednesday,
May the 9th, 1860
We spent the morning sewing. Mr. Lake spent
the· evening with us, he took
tea with us, he was very lively indeed, we
discussed the subject of "love
at first", the majority was against me. We presented Mr. L. with a nice
bouquet.
Thursday
the 10th
Mrs. Ham and Laura Moore spent the day with us. I cut out Laura's
dress.
Mrs. H. was very loquacious, read some
letters. Mrs. and Miss Tantrell (?)
stayed all night.
Friday,
May the 11th , 1860
This has been an eventful day. Mr. Lake came by and one and all went to
Mr. Spinks. We dined sumptious1y on fish. In the evening we went strawberry
hunting, came back by Mr. ____ and the
company robbed a beehive,
ate plenty of honey, then returned home after
walking about five miles.
Margaret Harris went home with us. Mr. Lake stayed until bedtime.
We
had a nice time, retired late.
Saturday,
May the 12th, 1860
I cut out Sophia's dress, had a pleasant
chat with P.B.C. We took a walk
in the evening and listened to our echo, had some nice
strawberrys .
Sunday the
13th
We went to preaching at Saulsbury, heard
two excellent sermons from Mr.
Carlwell. There was a very large crowd out at Saulsbury. Saw many of
my old friends and schoolmates. I ·wore my new dress.
Monday the
14th , 1860
Pa came after me this morni11g. Bagin and
John came part of the way with
us, found Ella here. Mr. Lake spent the
morning with us.
Tuesday,
Hay 15th
I went fishing, there were but a few at the picnic, but we enjoyed ourselves
finely. The crowd carne by home with me, we
then called on Mrs. Chairs,
had some fine music by Miss Spinks, stayed all night at Mrs.
Spinks .
Wednesday,
May the 16th
I came home this morn and made my bonnet, had a long chat with Ella.
Retired early.
Thursday
the 16th
This has been an eventful day with me. I
was very much surprised at the
appearance of John Cross who came to see
me. While he was here Mr. Spinks
and Chairs came after me, I remained until
Mr. C. left and
then went to
Mr. Lakes to make my excuse for not
attending the
dinner.
Friday May
the 18th, 1860
Mr. L. came by and insisted on me going
strawberrying. We dined with
Mrs. Spinks. In the evening we all went to
gather the delicious fruit.
Most of the girls had a beau.
Saturday
the 19th
Ella and Mr. Avent came by for me to go to
preaching. Chambers preached.
I had company home. Quite a crowd of little
girls came to see us this
evening, Ma cut out a dress for Miss
Florence Anderson.
Sunday May
the 20th, 1860
Lucie, Sam and myself went to preaching.
Parson Savage preached, there
was quite a crowd out. Ella and Sam dined
with us. I read several pieces
in Godey.
Monday the
21st
I spent an hour with the children and their
books. Mr. Lake spent part
of the day with us, he is in fine spirits.
We read and chatted and
passed the morning away very pleasantly
comparing dates. Went to see Mr.
Mc. in the eve.
Tuesday, Hay the 22d, 1360
Ma and I spent the day with Mrs. Ham, we
had a very agreeable time, called
on Mrs. Mastin in the evening. Mr. M. had a
great deal to tell me about
my beau and spoke a good word for
him. There was
a picnic at Greer's Pond.
I don't think I ever saw the young folks in
such a notion of frolicking.
More courting than I ever heard, our new star had twenty beaux one
day.
I'm thinking there will not be many old
maids and bachelors in our
neighborhood.
Wednesday,
May the 23d, 1860
I spent two hours this morning teaching my
pupils. Was in hopes we were
going to have a rain, was disappointed.
Ella spent the evening with us.
The children gathered us some
mulberrys-walked with Ella, gathered wild
flowers.
Thursday
the 24th
The children had very good lessons, spent
the remainder of the day sewing.
Nothing of interest occured today, I am lonely this week, no
visitors.
Friday, May the 25/60
Spent the morning sewing, wrote a letter,
attended to domestic affairs.
Pa came home.
Saturday
the 26th
We spent a very pleasant day. Mrs. Wm. Rose and Mollie spent the day
with
us. Mrs. R. is such a very interesting little lady. Ella came
over to see
the ladies. I made some sweet pickles. Received news from head quarters
this evening.
Sunday,
May the 27th, 1860
This has been a long lonesome day with me.
Was disappointed about going
to church. Sam went after his mule that got
out. Wrote some.
Monday,
May the 28th
Mr. Lake spent the morning with us, talking
of another picnic. We had an
agreeable surprise. Aunts Grider and Gordon
came to see us, I was so much
rejoiced to see them, they appeared to be
much wearied. Retired quite late.
Tuesday,
May the 29th
Ella came over to see our Aunts and spent
the morning. We had a great
deal to talk about, Mr. Lake called to let
us know the fry was a failure.
Wednesday
the 30th
We talked, walked and laughed. Ella and Sam
came over and took supper
and sat until bedtime. Lila appeared in
full bloomers, quite a novel
appearance. Aunt is pursuading me to go to
Oxford with her. Retired
late.
Thursday,
May the 31st, 1860
Aunts Gordon and Grider and myself spent
the day with Ella, we had a
very pleasant time. I made my dress skirt.
Friday,
June the 1st
I finished the white dress today, and a
stocking. Taught the children.
We are needing rain very much indeed. Ella
spent the evening with us.
The old folks told some amusing anecdotes.
Saturday,
June the 2d, 1860
Esq. Anderson and Hr. Lake called this
morning. Aunt Gordon says she
has a good joke on me. I cut out my dress
and sewed on it.
Sunday the
3d
Sam, Mr. L. and myself went to Canaan
today, heard two excellent sermons
from Parson Walker. Took dinner at church,
called at Mr. _______. The
Miss Baileys were there. Mr. U. was in fine
spirits. Mssrs. Chairs, Capers
and Higgs called on me during my absence.
Monday,
June the 4th, 1860
Mrs. Moore and Mrs. Ham came to see us this
evening. We had an early
supper and Ma and Aunt Gordon went over to
see Ella. Aunt Grider and
I took a long walk, she was asking about my
pretended.
Tuesday
the 5th
We all spent the day at Mrs. Moore's, we
had a jolly time, in the evening
we went down to Mrs. Ham's. She gave us some
music. Tom, Trip and I went
to the plum tree. Tom gave Aunt some plums.
Wednesday,
June the 6th, 1860
Aunts Grider and Gordon took leave of us,
and started for Oxford. Sam
went with them to the station, they will
not take the cars until
evening. Ella remained with me sometime
after they left. Felt sad.
and lonely.
Thursday
the 7th
Was disappointed about going to the examination. Pa had the well cleaned
out. I went over to see Ella and spent the
evening. Set the children
to knitting after they said their lessons.
Friday,
June the 8th, 1860
The rain has come at last. We started to
the examination, was caught
in a shower, called at a house, dried and
went on, got there late. What
I heard was very good. Prof. Loomis gave a
short lecture. Saw many of
my old school mates. Received a letter.
Saturday
the 9th
Mr. Lake and Mrs. Nabor's family spent the
evening with us. Mrs. N. is
very loquacious. Raining again.
Sunday,
June the 10th
Sam and I went to preaching at Saulsbury.
Stopped at the Methodist Church,
heard part of the sermon , then to the Presbyterian
Church, dined with Mrs.
McGee. Mr. Lake and family came by in the
evening.
Monday the
11th
This has been a long lonesome day. In the
evening Mrs. McGee and the
Misses Lakes came over and stayed all
night. We read and talked until
quite late. We had a very hard rain in the
night, some hail.
Tuesday,
June the 12th
I was agreeably surprised
by the arrival of Cousin J.S. Grider who arrived
here about one o'clock this evening. Ella
came over to see Cousin expecting
to see his wife, we walked part of the way
home with her.
Wednesday
the 13th
We went to the plum orchard. Ma returned from Oxford
this evening. We
were all very much rejoiced to see her
after her long absence. Uncle
Gordon is in very bad health.
Thursday
June 14th, 1860
John worked awhile in the flower garden.
Mr. Beard carne after Sallie,
John and I took a very pleasant ride this
evening. John has been telling
me of his Mattie.
Friday the
15th
Bright and early this morning John bade
us farewell and he and Sam started
for the station. Ma spent the day with Ella
who is quite sick. This has
been one of the most lonesome days I ever
experienced.
Saturday,
June the 16th
Sewed most of the day. Received a new
ladies book. Read several pages.
Sunday 17
Went to preaching at Van Buren. Parson Savage preached. Had a visitor.
Ella is convalescing.
Monday the
18th
The music school commenced today. I am very
much pleased with the teacher,
Miss Rapp. Good many persons present.
Tuesday
the 19th, 1·860
Misses Lake, Spinks, Harris and Moore spent
the day with me, in the evening
Mssrs. Moore and Spinks came over. I went
home with the girls, took supper
at Lake's.
Wednesday
the 20th
Spent the day at Van Buren, took another
music lesson, but no music in my
soul tonight. I feel melancholy tonight.
Thursday,
June the 21st
Repaired two of my old dresses. Received a
letter from J.S.G., coming
up tomorrow. I went over to see Ella, she
is quite sick.
Friday the
22
I spent the day at Van Buren. We are
getting along very well with our
lessons. Called on _______, formed an
acquaintance with Mr. E. Chairs,
think he is smitten with Miss Nannie. Our cousins did not come, sadly
disappointed was I.
Saturday, June the 23
Attended a picnic at Anderson's Mill, quite
a crowd out, much enjoyment,
plenty to eat, young folks were very
loquacious. Harris and Previtt
came home with us. Ella spent the day with
Ma.
Sunday the
24th
This has been a long lonesome day with me. I
read, wrote, talked and
walked. Had visitors. Ma and Lucie went to see
Miss Jane Nabors. I
wrote
a long
letter to one of my friends.
Monday, June the 25th, 1860
Went to school this morning, had a good
lesson, we had a very pleasant
time eating our dinner, went by Mr. L's. Lizzie came home with me.
Tuesday,
the 26th
Mrs. Arbuckle, Miss Jane Nabors and Ella spent the day with us, the time
passed off very pleasantly. Prof.Gibson dined with us, he is very
loquacious, and an "old" bachelor which makes him
doubly interesting. I
went home with the ladie's. He practiced our
lessons over before retiring.
Wednesday,
June the 27th
Did not go to school until after dinner. Rained-I
could not get home,
stayed at Mrs. Moore's. Went over to the Doctor's
with Laura to have
a tooth drawn,
Thursday
the 28th
I came home, found Pa here arid sick. In the evening I went over to
Mr.
L's to practice my lesson.
29th
Friday morning, I went to Van today, took
my lesson, then to the Junction to
an examination, attended a tableau
at night, was very much pleased. Saw
many of my friends. Went to Mr. Naber's.
Saturday,
June the 30th, 1860
I left Mr. Naber's this morning after
spending a very pleasant evening.
Arrived at home at eleven o'clock a.m.
Spent the evening patching and
darning. Finished my stockings.
Sunday,
July the 1st
Went to Torn Previtt's funeral, a masonic
procession, there was quite a
large crowd out. The day was oppressively
warm. Miss Spinks bade me
farewell. Found Ma quite sick when I
returned. I spent the evening in
reading.
Monday,
July the 2d, 1860
Went to school this morning, had good
lessons. I came home sick, did
not sleep much during the night.
Tuesday
the 3d
I was confined to my bed all day, read most
of the time.
Wednesday
the 4th
Went to school, had a good deal of company,
two gents from Saulsbury.
We had a very interesting time, conversing
and listening to the music.
Thursday
the 5th, 1860
I received a nice present this morning, a
music book.
The name of
the
donor is written down on the tablets of
memory. Went
to Harris' to
practice.
Friday,
July the 6th
Went to school this morning, found the
scholars in fine spirits. Aunt
Hobson came by Van Buren about one o'clock.
Mr. B. carne with her. Ella
carne over in the evening, we had a very
pleasant time. Retired late.
Saturday,
July the 7th
I spent the morning sewing, in the evening
I went to Van to practice,
returned by Ella's. Pa has gone to
Saulsbury.
Sunday the 8th
I did not go to preaching. Ella spent the day with us. I am reading
the "Youth's Cabinet[3]".
Mr. Avent came over.
Honday the
9th
Eliza m:~nt with me to school. Tom Moore and Dr. Russell came
over and
had a chat. Aunt and Ma met us. Pa is gone, heard of the death of Hrs.
Falls.
Tuesday,
July the 10th, 1860
Ma and I went to Saulsbury shopping, dined with Mrs. Hancock, called on
Mrs. Ward, she is convalescing. Saw Hr. and Mrs. Nabors,
Wednesday
the 11th
All the Van ites are in great
excitement about one neighbor getting married.
It is really amusing to hear them.
Thursday
the 12th
I went to Van in the evening to practice. Dr.
R. and Mrs. Hoare came down
to Mr. Ham's. They joked me a good deal about
the current report, which
is all false. Ella was fooled.
Friday,
July the 13th, 1860
Miss Nannie is quite sick, had a chill, we made her a dress. Mr.
Lake
and Chairs visited the school this evening.
Saturday
the 14th
I finished my dress. Mr. Randolph, Mrs. and
Mrs. Griggs called
on us this evening. I was sick during the
night.
Sunday the
15th
We went to preaching. Parson Savage spoke.
There were a good many out.
I imagine my journal is becoming very dull
and uninteresting.
Monday,
July the 16th, 1860
Went to school today, the Misses Moores
spent the day with Mrs. Ham,
quite a privalege to converse with a young
lady "just from college".
Tuesday
the 17th
I spent the morning very pleasantly with
Aunt and Ma-went to practice
in the evening, called to see Ella, we had a rain.
Aunt and Ma
went
to meet me.
Wednesday
the 18th
Went to school, Sophia did not come, Miss
Nannie is going to give
vocation. We had quite a jolly time.
Thursday,
July the 19th
I made a cape and assisted Ma. Stayed at
home all day. Nothing of
interest occured.
Friday the
20th
We have plenty of nice melons. Went to Van
to practice. Heard plenty
of news about my marriage.
Saturday
the 21st
Spent the morning sewing. Read Godey. Mr.
Avent had a house raising.
Sat up quite late at night reading.
Sunday,
July the 22d, 1860
We attended the protracted meeting at Van Buren, quite a crowd out.
Savage, Chambers
and
Valentine are
the
ministers. Had an introduction
to Mrs. Puckett. Good many are joking me
about standing up today.
Mon. the
23
Went to preaching again, had a pleasant
shower of rain. Mattie C. and I had
a pleasant chat with cousin E.C.C. and
feasted high on fruit and melons.
Tuesday
July the 24
All the family went to preaching. Mrs. Bailey
came home with me. We had a
very pleasant time. Sat up quite late.
Wednesday
the 25
Six young ladies left our house this
morning with one escort. I went home
with Mrs. Bailey. Sara Rose went with me.
We spent a very agreeable time.
Mrs. Sims was sick. I had a chat with Ben
Previtt.
Thursday
July the 26th
Some appearance of rain this morning and we
did not leave Mr. B 's until
evening, the protracted meeting broke up
this evening, no converts. Sam
came home with me. Sister Kate came up this
eve.
Friday
July the 27th
Aunt, Sister and myself spent the day with
Ella, went over to her new
house after dinner. Sam went to Saulsbury.
We are all very much delighted
with my little namesake. She is such a
sweet child.
Saturday
July the 28th
Ella spent the day with us. Pa came home. Ma, Pa and all the children were together
today. Sister Kate and children went home.
Sunday the
29th
Sam and I went to preaching at Bethel
church, heard an excellent sermon in
the forenoon. Spent the day very agreeably.
We had to eat in the church
on account of the rain. Ther.e were four
Methodist preachers at church today-formed
several new acquaintances.
Monday the
30th, 1860
Pa & I went back to church, we had a
very good meeting. I went home with
Rachel Previtt. We had a pleasant time.
Tuesday
the 31st
We had a very refreshing rain last night.
Went to church, had a happy time,
three mourners. I had a nice book presented
to me by N.B. Price. I had a
conversation with Dr. Bostorch, he is very
loquacious. Mr. Lake and Ben
Previtt came home with me.
Wednesday,
Aug. the 1st
I went to school. Mr. Richardson came with Miss Rapp. Laura Moore
is very
sick, has two physicians with her. I went
up to see her in the evening,
saw Miss Ann and Sister.
Thursday
the 2d
I finished Aunt's cap. Mr. Lake spent a few
hours with us
on the way
to the
Junction. Lizzie and Mary spent the day with Lucie. I read several
chapters
in Cartwright. Went to sit up with Laura
Moore. she is some better. A day
long to be remembered.
Friday,
Aug. the 3d, 1860
School days again, all in fine spirits.
Sophia and I had a long chat. Four
gentlemen spent the evening, two widowers.
I begin to think I am of very
little use in a busy world, I am so idle. I
must read more, study harder,
the life I am leading does not suit me.
Saturday
the 4th
I have been busy all day fixing Lucie's
clothes, she went to see S. Ham.
Sam went to Saulsbury. He did not return
until late. Pa came home.
Sunday,
Aug. the 5th, 60
I read two chapters in Cartwright, did not
go to preaching as the weather
was so warm. Ella and Sam spent the day
with us. Pa went to preaching.
Aunt is not very well. I read a chapter in
the bible and retired.
Nov. the
6th
Had company at school, two new scholars,
Bettie Usery (?) and Trude Higgs.
Wiley came with his sister. We had a very
jolly time. This is the last
night Aunt will be with us.
Tuesday,
Aug. the 7th, 1860
Lucie and Aunt Hobson left for Memphis this
morning. We all feel very
lonely. Sam went with them to the station.
I have done but very little
work today . I have a good mind to quit writing in my journal and let this
be my last day, it is out of my power to
make it interesting at the present.
Not to my journal would I communicate the
sacred feelings that I sometimes
have. This is a sad time with us all, the
first time Lucie ever went from
home any distance.
Oh Heavenly Father smile on her, protect
and guard my little sister, lead
her in the straight and narrow
path, forbid she should ever wander far.
Nay she lean upon thine all supporting arm.
I know she will find many false
friends, but Oh, Father, may it teach her
ever to look to thee for comfort .
God grant that she may make a useful woman,
may she be the cause of many
coming to the Lord to seek the pearl of
great price. Father in heaven, may
she be a blessing to our gray headed
parents-that their last days may be
their happiest.
Wednesday
Aug. the 8th
Company at School , Wiley Higgs , I.C.Lake, and P.B. Chairs
spent the evening
with the students. Wiley and I had quite a
lively conversation to amuse the
crowd. Miss Cynthia Lake and relations came by. We went out to see them,
had an introduction to Mr. Bussie.
Thursday
Aug. the 9th
There is to be a grand barbeque at the
Junction today. Sam went to Boliver.
Friday
Ang. the lOth
Went to school today. Beth M. and I had a
jolly time. I sat up quite late,
reading Loorreses' address[4].
Saturday
the 11th
I was busy all day helping Ha about
domestic affairs. Ella moved to her
new
house today.
Sunday
Aug. the 12th
Pa went to preaching at Saulsbury, brings tidings of a great revival
at
Ripley. I did not go to preaching anywhere,
wrote some letters, then
read in The Life of Don. In the evening I
went over to see Ella, she is
quite sick. I am very sorry she is sick,
hope she will soon recover.
I do hope she and her companion may lead a long, happy and useful life.
I think Ella is endeavoring to lead a
Christian life. God grant that
her companion may find the pearl of great price.
Monday
Aug. the 13th , 1860
This has been a day that not many of my age
and experience would write on.
I am anything else but happy, yet I went to
school, and none knew but I
was the happy Laura of the past. Oh, what a
task it is when one is so
miserable to mix with the world, and assume
gayety, such has been my
task this day. I will try in the future to
think less of my troubles
and more of others. I never did think until
now that I was selfish.
This is one fault I am going to break
myself of. And by so doing I can
be contented and happy. "Teach me to
feel another's woe.''
Tuesday
the 14th, · 1860
I spent the morning at home, had company,
feel better than I did yesterday,
helped Ma cut fruit. Went to practice in
the evening.
Wednesday,
Aug. the 15th
But four scholars today. I went to Mrs. Chair's. Miss Nannie and I had
a jolly visit. I found Miss Sophie's beau
there, Miss Jarret and Mr.
Richardson also. We sat up quite late and
had a jolly time talking with
the boys .
Thursday
the 16th
Willie R. and P.B.C. went to school with us
. Wiley H. came over, he
is
not well. I came home early and sewed some
before night.
Friday
Aug. the 16th, 1860
Bettie Usery came to school today and
brought news from Whiteville. J.C.L.
and Wiley Higgs came in this evening.
Politics are raging high at school,
the majority are for Douglas. Pa came home
this evening.
Had a
visitor late
this eve.
Sat. Aug.
17th
Went to school in the morning. Mrs. Nannie
broke up at noon, came home.
Ella spent the day with us.
Sunday,
Aug. the 18th
We went to preaching at Van Buren and a
funeral. I gave a gent a nice
bouquet.
Saturday,
Aug. the 25
I have not written in my journal for a
week. Have not been in the humor
for writing on any subject. Have several letters on hand not answered,
have been at home all the week, did not
attend any of the meetings, has
some agreeable visitors, part of the time was
spent very pleasantly.
25
Sunday,
Aug. the 26th
I spent the day with Mollie Rose, had a
very agreeable time. Mrs. McDaniel
was there with her pet of the cradle. I
spent a very pleasant time in
conversation with Mrs. Wm. Rose who is very
entertaining. Had a very
pleasant ride home in company with Mr.
Hodlford and lady, who was telling
me about "Cousin Jimmie" says he
is wonderfully enamored with a lady about
my age.
Monday,
Aug. the 27, 1860
I sewed on my quilt until late in the evening, then went to practice, found
Mrs. Ham quite sick. Pa went to the
speaking.
Tuesday,
Aug. the 28th
Mrs. Nannie has returned from Jackson, and
commenced her school again today.
W. Higgs, J.E. Lake and J.E. Martin visited
the school this evening, quite
a jolly time. Mr. Latin (?) sent another
piano. I sat up quite late reading
and writing.
Wednesday,
Aug. the 29th, 1860
Mr. L. spent the day at school. Ma came over in the evening. We had a
nice time practicing on the new piano. I
sat up quite late writing.
Tnursday,
Aug. the 30th
I walked to school today, heard the sad
news of the death of little Henry
Harris, what a trial for Mrs. H., losing
two children in one year. Mrs.
Nannie and Sophia came home with me, we had
a very pleasant time.
Friday,
Aug. the 31st
The last day of summer and the last day of our music
school. Several
visited the school today. We spent the day
very pleasantly, in the
evening we had a Valedictory then a
farewell song and then separated.
Some of the scholars looked quite sad on
the occasion, I came by Mr.
Moore's and bade Hrs. Howard farewell, she will
leave this neighborhood
tomorrow. I feel very much wearied.
Saturday,
September the 1st
I have been very busy all day sewing on a
dress. Mr. L. called to see us.
Ella came over and spent a short time, we
went after muscadines, and had
a merry chat.
Sun. Sept.
the 2
I remained at home all day, had no company,
spent the day reading and
writing. Wrote a letter to Miss Spinks. I
read some very interesting
pieces in the Observer[5]. We had
a hard shower of rain.
Mon. Sept.
the 3rd, 1860
I went to Mrs. Chair's in the evening to
bid Mrs. Nannie farewell, she
looks quite serious. I took tea with Mrs. C.,
we enjoyed ourselves very
well. Mr. Lake came home with me.
Tuesday
the 4th
I spent the morning with Ella, in the
evening went to see Fannie H.
Mollie Rose and Lizzie Holdford came home with
us. We sat up quite late
talking, reading
and
visiting.
Wednesday
September the 5th, 1860
I have been quite busy sewing on my quilt.
Mr. L. came over in the evening,
we had a hard rain.
Thursday
the 6th
Ella and Mr. L. spent the day with us, we all
enjoyed ourselves finely.
Pa, Ma and Ella went to Van late this evening.
Mrs. Martin is quite sick.
I have so much sewing to do, but did very
little today as I had agreeable
company.
Friday,
the 7th, September
Sam went to Saulsbury, brought a letter
from Lucie. I have been very busy
sewing. Pa went to Boliver, has not returned.
Saturday,
the 8th
Ma is preserving today. I did a little of
all kinds of house work. Pa
came home. We sat up quite late, I feel
very much wearied.
Sunday,
Sept. the 9th, 1860
I went to preaching at Saulsbury, there was
quite a crowd out. Parson
Crawford preached. I came by and dined with
my old friend Lou Previtt,
we had one of our long chats, so much like
other days, it made me think
of the past. I told her of my "bright
particular star". George came in,
and we had a lively chat, found company on
my arrival home, had a nice
present.
Sept. the
10th, 1860
Ella spent the day with us, she had a great
deal of · news. ·Thirty one
years ago today my parents were married.
Tuesday,
Sept. the 11th
Ma went to Van and bought my quilt lining
and we put in the quilt. Mr.
L. visited us. Pa came from Saulsbury,
brought my magazine. Ma and I
had a long chat before I retired.
Wednesday,
Sept. the 12th, 1860
Commenced quilting, had company. I did but
little quilting. Mr. E.J.
and I talked politics extensively.
Thursday
the 13th
I have been very constantly at work all
day. No company, read some and
retired.
Friday the
14th
P.B. Chairs, sister and Mrs. Futrell spent
the evening with us, we went
after muscadines. Had a jolly time.
Saturday,
Sept. the 15th, 1860
We have been quilting all day. Mr. L.
called in the evening, nothing
of importance occured.
Sunday the
16th
Raining all the morning. Wrote a letter and
read some. My friend and I
read "The Lives of the Three Mrs.
Jordons".[6]
Monday,
Sept. the 17th
Pa left home this morning. My friend called
to see me on his way from
Bolivar. I feel sad tonight.
Tuesday
Sept the 18th, 1860
Mr. and Mrs. Ham and Ella spent the evening
with us. Mr. H. joked me
about my beau. I read some in Arthur’s
magazine.
Wednesday
the 19
My particular friend came to see me today,
speaks of going to Memphis this
week.
Thursday
the 20th
A beautiful moonlight night, Ma and I went
over and sat a few hours with
Ella. She and her better half look quite
happy and very jolly.
Friday
Sept. the 21st, 1860
This has been a long tiresome day with me,
sewed hard all day and had no
company.
Sat. Sept
the 22d
Sam and Mr. A went to Saulsbury. Ella spent
the day with
us, we had a very
pleasant time quilting. Pa brought us some apples, muscadines
and melons.
Recd a new Godey, read a long
story with Ma.
Sunday,
Sept. the 23d, 1860
Pa and I went to church at Saulsbury. Dr.
Gray preached from the 42 and
12 chapters of Matthew. Saw many of my
friends, came home to dinner. Had
a chat with Rob. Black. Wrote some, read a
chapter and retired.
Mon. the
24th
Mr. L. spent the day with us. We are most
worn out quilting.
Tues. 25
Heard of the death of Mr. William‘s son,
read a letter from Lucie. She
is sick. Got my quilt out. Went after
muscadines.
Wednesday,
Sept. the 26, 1860
I bound my quilt. Ma went to the weavers.
Ella came over in the evening.
Thursday,
Sept. the 27th
I had company all day. Mssrs. Lake, Higgs
and Chairs called in the morning.
Mrs. Lou Previtt and Laura Clark spent the day with us. Miss Mollie Rose
came in the evening and staid all night. Ella came over in the evening.
We spent the day very pleasantly.
Friday,
Sept the 28th 1860
Mollie and I spent the day with Ella and
helped her quilt, then went on to
Mr. Rose's. Sat up late.
Sat. the
29th
We took the cars at Middleburg and went to
Bolivar to a barbeque, had a fine
dinner and good speaking. Gov. Foot and
Judge Brown were the speakers. There
is a great deal of excitement about
politics. We put up at Black's Tavern.
Remained in town until 9 o'clock.
Sunday,
Sept. the 30th, 1860
Went to preaching at Middleburg at the
Methodist Church, dined at Capt.
Rose's in company with Mr. Lake and Mr.
Harris. Blake Rose came home with
me.
Mon. Oct.
the 1st
I have spent this day darning, patching,
knitting. Nothing of interest
occured.
Tues. Oct . the 2d
Pa left this morning. I made three towels, had
a visitor, spent the day
very pleasantly.
Wednesday
Oct. the 3d, 1860
Raining. I made Sam a pair of pants-he went
to the P.O.-did not get any
letters, recd two papers while I
sewed, Ma read.
Thursday
Oct. the 4th
I pieced up a quilt today and ironed after
supper, spent but few moments
reading.
Friday the
5th
I made me a velvet belt and altered a
dress. Pa came home, saw Aunt Gordon.
I was glad to hear Delight had received her
__________.
Saturday,
Oct. the 6th, 1860
I spent the day repairing and altering my
winter dresses. Am practicing
economy. No letters yet.
Sunday,
Oct. the 7th
Mr. Avent and Ella spent the day with us. I
have read but very little today,
wrote some. Ella is looking very badly, she
has had the chills.
Monday the
8th
Ma and I spent the evening
with Mrs. Ham. She gave us some music. I am
reading ''Sinaca[7]".
Tuesday,
Oct. the 9th,
1860
Mr. E.L. spent the day with us. In the
evening, Mrs. Chairs, Sophia and
and Bogin came over, we had a jolly
time for a while joking Sophia about
the ''white horse". After the company
left Ma and I went over to see Ella.
Today has passed off quite differently from
what I anticipated a month
ago.
Wednesday
the 10th
I sewed very constantly today. Bogin and
Sophia called a short time this
morning. R.C. says he thinks I'm engaged.
Thursday
Oct. the 11th, 1860
Lila is over at Ella's, we are rather
lonely. I sat up quite late trying
to finish my handkerchief.
Friday, Oct.
the 12th
Early this morning I completed my
handkerchief, finished Pa's pants and done
some patching .
Sat. the
13th
Pa, Ma and myself went to preaching at
Saulsbury. Mr. Thomson preached in
the morning and Dr. Gray in the evening . We done our shopping
after preaching.
Recd our first frost last night
-very cold.
Sunday,
Oct . 14th, 1860
Went to church again today, a large crowd
out. Mr. Thomson preached the
forenoon sermon, the sacrament was
administered. In the evening Dr. Gray
preached an excellent sermon, there
appeared to be a great deal of feeling
in the congregation. Saw two new brides, we
had a cold drive home, had
company part of the way.
Monday,
the 15th
Helped Ma sew on some dresses.
Tuesday,
Oct. the 16th, 1860
Ella spent the day with us. I sat up quite
late.
Wednesday,
Oct. the 17th
We had company, spent the day very
pleasantly, sat up late and made a dress.
Thursday
the 18th
I made me a bonnet, in the evening I went
to Mrs. Chairs, stayed all night.
We talked until twelve o'clock. P.B.C. and W.H.
Friday the
19th
I came by the store, heard some news.
Braided a pin cushion.
Saturday,
Oct. the 20th, 1860
Miss Jane Nabers called on me this morning,
I went home with her, saw Mrs.
Nabers and Mrs. Crisp of Memphis. We spent
the day very pleasantly.
Sunday,
Oct. the 21st
Ma and I went to church, Mr. Jones
preached, Miss Permelia Moore joined the
church, came home, Ma went to Ella' s-I
spent the evening reading.
Monday,
Oct. the 22d
Hemed my handkerchiefs. Mr. L. called on his way from
Boliver and sat until
bedtime.
Tuesday,
Oct. the 23d, 1860
I helped Ma sew on Pa's coat. Feel very
badly, we went after grapes in the
evening.
Wednesday,
Oct. the 24
Douglass is to be in Memphis
too, I should like to have gone. Sam went to
Boliver today. Ella spent the day with us.
I made my calico dress today with
the exception of the skirt.
Thursday
the 25
I have done a hard day's work, I
feel the affects, found time to read a
few pages.
Friday,
Oct. the 26th, 1860
I have been reading· “The Farm and Fireside[8]"
which I find very interesting.
Commenced a pair of stockings.
Saturday,
Oct. the 27th
I repaired Lila's dress. Ma and I took a
long walk, found some crabs.
Mr. Lake came in the evening, told us about
seeing Douglass. Ella came
over.
Sunday,
Oct. the 28th
I spent the morning reading. My friend
spent the evening with me, we had
a pleasant time reading and talking. A
beautiful moonlight night.
Monday,
Oct. the 29th, 1860
Ella came over in the morning. I commenced
my dress today. A lovely
evening.
Tuesday,
Oct. the 30
Mr. Lake came to see me today, we took a
walk, gathered grapes and chestnuts,
Mr. L. had a chat with the old folks.
Wednesday,
Oct. the 31
Had a very agreeable surprise. Mr. L. came
over late this evening with a
message from Miss Cynthia Lake. Raining. We
spent the evening pleasantly.
Thursday
Nov. the 1st, 1860
Miss Cynthia Lake and Mr.. Spinks are to be
married today. Much joy to the
happy pair. I sent Cynthia a bridal present
today by my kind friend. Sunshine
and clouds.
Friday the
2d
Mr. Lake and the girls came over this
morning fresh from the wedding. I recd
two letters, one from Lucie, the other from
Delight, she wrote a very religious
letter. Mary Lake stayed all day.
Saturday
Nov. the 3d, 1860
Ella came over this morning, we had. a long chat. I helped Ma sew on the
girl's
dresses.
Sunday
Nov. the 4th
Mr. L. came over and spent the day with us,
we had such a pleasant time,
reading and talking, we took a long walk
this evening. Found some nice grapes,
pretty ferns and berrys. Ella and Sam came
over and took tea with us. I
wrote four letters
after
supper.
Mon. Nov.
the 5th, 1860
Sam came home from Saulsbury, brought
letters and papers. Pa gathered us
a nice parcel of grapes. Ella came over and
stayed a short time.
Tuesday,
Nov. the 6th
Mr. L. came by on his way to the election.
I begin to feel rather serious
on the occasion. I recd the
compliments and congratulations of Mrs. McDaniel
and Miss Rose today, would have visited
them but I was so very busy. I had
a long and pleasant chat with the loved
ones at home before I retired.
Wednesday,
Nov. the 7th, 1860
Well, this is the last day I am to spend in
"singleblessedness", my intended
came by and showed me the documents.
Ella spent the day with us, we ate a
nice melon, and had a pleasant talk, I have
exerted myself to appear cheerful
today. Mr. L. stayed with me until
eight-o'clock, and appeared in fine
spirits. Cynthia has left, I would have
been so glad if she could have remained
until after our marriage, am sorry I could
not see her before she left.
Pa went to La Grange today, heard from Delight, wish she was here.
Thursday,
Nov. the 8th, 1860
Why should I record the events of this day,
are they not engraven on the
tablets of my heart in characters that can
never be erased? Today I took
the solemn vow of matrimony, and promised
to "love, honor and obey". The
marriage ceremony was performed by our much
beloved pastor Dr. Gray. God
grant that I may make a loving wife and an
affectionate and devoted Mother,
oh, heavenly Father, give me grace and
wisdom from on high that I may
perform all the duties incumbent upon me to
thy honor and glory.
Friday,
Nov. the 9th, 1860
Finds me at my new home with the companion
of my choice and his dear children.
I can scarcely realize that I have left the
home of my dear parents to share ·
the pleasure as well as the trials of a
mother, but I am in hopes it is for
the good of all concerned. I felt a little
sad when all of our friends left,
though I can write of a truth "a happy
bride". The girls went back to
school in the evening. The weather has been
disagreeable for three or four
days but the sun shone out beautifully this
evening.
Saturday,
Nov. the 10th, 1860
My better half went to Saulsbury and did
not return until late. I busied
myself with domestic affairs.
Sunday,
Nov. the 11th, 1860
We went to preaching at Saulsbury, heard an
excellent sermon by Dr. Gray,
text, Deut. 32-47. Saw many of my friends
and acquaintances. Lizzie and
Mary were out. Pa came by and dined with
us, spent a pleasant evening.
Monday,
Nov . the 12th
I spent the day with Ma. Mr. Lake went to
Saulsbury and came by for me
in the evening. Mrs. Anderson spent the
day with Ma also, made three towels.
Tuesday,
Nov. the 13th, 1860
I went out in the cotton patch in company with Mr.
Lake, picked out some
cotton, had a pleasant walk home, my first
walk in that direction.
Wednesday,
Nov. the 14th, 1860
Went over to Pa's this morning and returned
by nine o'clock. Spent most
of the day in domestic affairs.
Thursday
the 15th
Mr. Lake, Frank, Joe and myself went out to
Hickory Valley in search of
hickory nuts, found plenty, had a
delightful time. Ma spend the evening with me.
Ella and Sam sat until bedtime.
Friday,
Nov. the 16th, 1860
Raining, and I had enough company. I have
been busy today. Nothing of
interest occured today.
Saturday,
Nov. the 17th, 1860
I did a little of all kinds of housework.
Mr. Lake went to Saulsbury and
gave me a joyful surprise by coming home
early, brought papers and books.
Bought me a pair of shoes. We read a story
together, had a pleasant chat
and retired.
Sunday,
Nov. the 18th, 1860
We went to church at Van Buren. Parson
Jones preached. Margaret Harris and
her brothers came home with us, we spent
the evening very agreeably.
