University of Virginia Library

1857

Jan. 1-3

The New Year 1857 is ushered in by a snow storm. Made a bad beginning, not ready for breakfast. Brother Jim absent. Quite a merry party of us at Music Hall. Miss V(allant), Lizzie and Bob Lewis, Sue and I besides Sister Mary and Cousin Lizzie Watson and the host of children. I had a call from all my darkies. Brother Jim and Cousin Thomas [Watson] get home on Saturday. A letter from Dr. Lea and one on business.

Jan. 4-10

Came up home on Sunday bringing Lizzie Dee with us and find all the good folks right glad to see us after an absence of four weeks. Sue and Lizzie commence a course of study comprising Moral Philosophy, Mathematics and French. Don't think I shall join them. My poor little dog Jack was shot today, Jan. 6, for killing sheep. I never thought I could love a dumb beast so much. Farewell friend Jack. The recollections of the many merry romps and pleasant walks we had together will long keep your memory green in my soul. I've almost decided never to have another pet. Get a pretty writing desk for Sue and myself. Read "The Hills of the ... " aloud. Mary Lewis is home for Saturday and Sunday. Lucy Wood with us.

Jan. 10-17

Go to the Baptist Church and hear Mr. Summers....Go home with sister Betty after church to see Rose and Ellen Bankhead who are staying with her. Such a crowd of belles and beaux. Spend a very unprofitable Sunday. Call to see Mat [Leitch]. What a great change since I last say her. Poor child she is not long for this world. It makes me feel so sad to think that a few short months since she was all life and spirits and now so near her end. Get home on Monday, hear Sue has had a "serious call." Get a sneaking guess who. Having a quiet time with Lizzie reading, working etc. Hear Mr. Meade has sent in his resignation; says his health is too bad to have the care of such a large church. Some busybody has been at work, no doubt. I signed a petition presented by the ladies of his congregation to the vestry not to accept his resignation ....Bob Lewis with us Saturday . ...the ice on the river over 10 inches thick, skating very fashionable.

Jan. 18-24

A great snow storm. It continued over 36 hours. The snow much drifted. A ridge of snowy mountains on a small scale around three sides of the yard fences. Each of the drifts are higher than the fence. We are put out of our room by the snow which finds its way on through the ceiling. Bob did not get off until Saturday. Lizzie Dee still with us. The cars do not run for more than a week. Sue and I busy over Daddy's collars.

Jan. 25-31

Dear Mat [Leitch] has gone. She breathed her last on the 25th about 2 o'clock PM. How hard to see our friends snatched away by death's hand but we mourn not as without hope for she knows in whom she he giveth his beloved sleep.

The storm that wrecks the wintry sky
No more disturbs her deep repose

Write to Brother Peter, also to Sally Williamson. A letter from Miss V telling Lizzie Dee there is no chance for her getting home as the track to Keswick is now broken so we may count on having our cousin Lizzie Dee with us for some time longer much to my joy. Cousin Skinner Minor to breakfast with us this morning. His mind is in a very wandering state. His friends intend taking him to Baltimore ....Get a mail on Thursday for the first time since the 17th. Feel great aggravation not having had any news for more than a week. Tom Maury's sentence, 70 years like the last two for our Southern honor, is a hard one. I heartily hope although his reputation may suffer that his calculations are inaccurate. Finish a revised and corrected edition of my Family Tree.

Feb. 1-7

Finish reading The Priest, Puritan and Preacher by Ryle. Like it much. Also Miss Rives new work Home and the World, which I consider very indifferent and [Anna Sophia] Stephens' Mrs. Massies in 1 vol with which I am both edified and amused. Lizzie Dee leaves us on Friday. We both feel very lonely without her . ....A letter from S P Williamson, also one from Betty Bankhead. Mary Lewis at home the last of the week. Hear Aunt Ria talks of visiting Virginia in the Spring. We will all give her a hearty welcome. Old Tammy Elpha, the horse, sleeps his last sleep. Some foggy mornings might imagine yourself in England.

Feb. 8-14

Roads too bad for church ....dull times. Wrote to Lizzie Dee and Dr. Lea. Still mud bound. Henry here Saturday.

Feb 22-28.

Go to my own church for the first time since Dec. 7th. Hear Mr. Meade...a beautiful sermon. How sad it made me feel to think we so soon must lose him. The warm weather seems to have set in for two flocks of wild geese pass on Sunday. Ash Wednesday the 25th Cousin Dabney Davis preached for us ....Call to see cousin Lou Leitch-a sad visit. How I missed Mat's ready smile and kind welcome. Cousin Lou seems gratified by our visit. Spring seems to have set in such earnestness some few bright crocus and violets have had their rashness to put forth their blossoms. I feel as if there will be a killing frost in store for them yet. Wrote to S P Williamson. Mary Lewis at home the last of the week. Ellen spends the night with us in the Lodge. Finish reading Walter Scott's Critical and Miscellaneous Essays in 3 vols. Pets met with a sad accident which I fear will be injurious to his beauty-had the tip of his tail wisked off-his back also much hurt. How unfortunate I am with my pets.

March 1-7

Spend this week in town. Hear Mr. Meade on Sunday morning ....Go at night to the Presbyterian Church and hear Mr. Wilson....Had "Longfellow" to escort me. We were so fortunate as to get a seat very near Miss Gibbs and had the benefit of her voice. My head suffers in consequence. Had some friends to call and paid some visits myself. Attended one of Miss Gibb's concerts at the Hall. She has a fine voice but not powerful enough for a public singer. She was aided by Messrs Fry and D'Alfonces. Mr. Fry is a splendid performer on the piano and Mr. D'Alfonce sang "The Marseillaise" with a great deal of feeling. Have several glimpses of Henry. Cousin John Martin also spends an evening with us. On Saturday I visit Sue at Dr. Leiches when we are expected to dinner. Spend the night at Mr. John Woods. Have a pleasant time. Joe Perkins "yarns" for our amusement about Lizzie Wood being a belle at Xmas. Charlie gives us the "grass hopper in the garden." The dear little flowers that a week ago were so bright have all been snapped by an untimely frost and are now languishing and low. A slight snow storm on Thursday. The largest flakes I ever saw but this is an age of wonders. A letter from Tom Davis. Poor fellow, he seems to have been badly dealt with lately-his letter was very unsatisfactory. A letter also from Miss Vallant. She says Aunt Sally's health is very poorly.

March 8-14

In the morning heard Mr Meade ....At night hear Mr. Smith. At Mr. Woods for dinner on Sunday. Spend the night at Dr. Leitch's. Sue and I get home on Monday. Find Pets much improved. I'm much afflicted with deafness but thanks to Mammy E's good dosing on Saturday my hearing is restored. Miss V up on Friday. We enjoy her company very much. She says Henry is in another "fit of the blues." I'm afraid he is passed hope as he has again left the University. Wrote to Betty Bankhead.

March 15-21

Hear Mr. Meade....Miss V leaves on Monday. Sue and I get independent and go visiting our neighbors by ourselves; Sue driving the buggy. My reading this week has been of a very miscellaneous character-History, Harpers [Magazine], poetry, etc. A letter from Sally Williamson. I'm much interested in the garden which begins to look quite spring like. Mary Lewis at home the last of the week and brings one of her school mates with her, Miss Artie Moon, from Mississippi.

March 22-28

Hear Mr. Meade [preach] ....Get the garden nearly "done up." Mrs. Macon sends me a fine supply of calacanthus, yellow jasmine and a root of white peony-great treasures all of them. Tom and Mary Walker Randolph spend Thursday and Friday with us. Little Jeff [their son] is a sweet little fellow. It almost puts one in the notion of getting married to see such an example of conjugal happiness as Mary Walker and Tom. They seem so devoted to each other. Brother Jim and Mr. [Francis K.] Nelson dine with us. Wrote to Aunt Ria and Tom Davis. Sue and I heard a joint communique from James Lewis. He says he is just about embarking upon the sea of matrimony. Gives us a bid to the wedding. I've given up the idea of visiting Missouri now as I hear Sally and her husband [Sally Watson Minor and Dr. Edward Lea] have left there. She was the attraction for me. My brothers, I think, might come to see me. Hear some very bad news about Sister Sue, [Susan H. Lewis Minor the wife of Louisa's brother, Peter Minor] that she is fast losing her mind. What an unfortunate family hers has been!

March 29-April 4

Hear Mr. William M. Nelson preach on influence. His text was "Am I my brother's keeper?" See Henry for a moment. He is much better, says his appetite is fine. Wrote to Miss V and Sally Williamson. Sue and I dine at Mrs. Macons. Have a nice visit. Mrs. Macon's garden makes me quite envious it is so nice. Cousin Mildred's advise to us is, if we can find one like her George to get married by all means. Sue and I get our Summer bonnets; white ... with a great many flowers. Finish reading Prior's Goldsmith's Poems. Very cold weather for the season-fear the fruit is all killed. A letter from Lizzie Dee. Sue, Jim and I am invited to a dancing party at Mr. Early's. Declined it as we have have neither dresses or inclination to accept. It is given to Mr. Tom Michie and his bride. Well we've lost another chance! Uncle Hatter thinks we did not pay him attention enough. I'm glad we are to have a neighbor but that she is a northerner!

April 5-11

Dr. Sparrow preaches for us on the liturgy ....Think such sermons are very edifying occasionally. Sue and I pay the party call at Mr. Early's, find the ladies very chatty. The rich Miss Fanny Michie was present. Find on our return we had missed a visit from two beaux, Messrs Adams and Coleman ....The fruit is certainly all killed but berries, perhaps. Mary Lewis gets home Thursday bringing Lizzie Wood and Sue Taylor with her. Sue T. is a real beauty. [On] Good Friday it rained hard all the morning so we could not get to church. In the evening Miss McPherson, Jane Taylor and the two Miss Moore's call. Miss Cora Moore remains until Saturday evening when the company all leave. Saturday Lizzie Wood, Sue and I go over to call on "Mrs. Bridal Michie." She has plenty to say. Expressed a great desire to be good neighbors with us ....Judging from her conversation I should suppose she intended introducing a number of reforms in the neighborhood-proposed a novel plan for keeping chickens from scratching the garden--vis chaining them to the trees in the woods.

April 12-18

Mr. Meade discourses on foreign missions, not very suitable for Easter Sunday, I thought. Easter Monday it snows hard all the morning. It seems a pity on the darkies' account, as it prevents the full enjoyment of their holiday. It clears off later and as Miss Taylor has sent us an invitation to spend the night at Midway and attend the proceedings at the University, we conclude to go and set off after sun down. We get there after supper is over; however, get some coffee and are in full time for the celebrations of the Jeff[erson] Society where we are escorted by Mr. John Robinson. Hear a very fine speech from a Fluvanna orator! The Declaration of Independence was badly read, I thought. The music fine, only objected to the

quantity. Saw a good many acquaintances. "Longfellow" presented me with his badge, a chic cockade. On the way back, had what Mr. Robinson called a smash up. Nothing hurt but the carriage, horse and dresses ....Sue and I return home the next morning after a very pleasant time. Settle down very quietly after the Easter holidays. How sad to think of our last Easter party. What a separation there has been of friends! Sally and Mr. Pride in Alabama; Tom in Missouri, perhaps California; and dear Mat gone to her long home. "Friends meet but to part." Hope we may one day all meet in that Home where parting is not know n !

April 19-25

A rainy Sunday so no church. Wrote to James Lewis. Finish reading a memoir of The Rev. Sydney Smith by his daughter, Lady Holland, in 2 vols. It is very entertaining. The Michies call ....A letter from Miss V. We think of going to that neighborhood next week to see Aunt Ria and Miss Betsy Catlett who is at Music Hall. Hear some sad accounts of the servants who were sent to Africa. Some ten or fifteen of their number are already dead. Mary Lewis at home, poorly.

April 26-May 2

Mr. Meade gives us a beautiful sermon on the shortness of life .....Go down to visit Music Hall and Castalia. Find Miss Betsey at the former place and Aunt Ria and Betty Hansborough at the last mentioned so we have quite a number of friends around us. Miss Betsey discourses about Orange and "the inhabitants thereof." Aunt Ria is her own little self. We have some warm talks about Yankees. Aunt Sally has a sewing bee. We get through quite a number of shirts. Have an ice cream for dinner for being so industrious. Hear John Halifax, [Gentleman, by Dinah Mulock] read aloud.

May 3-10

No church the weather being much warmer. A real old fashioned rain. Nature is fast donning her Spring attire and in a few weeks summer will be upon us in all its glory. Get home on Wednesday accompanied by Aunt Ria. Find Daddy poorly. Our convocation commenced 6th but we do not get over until Thursday when I remain with Sister Betty as I find my friend, Sally Williamson, there. Have very select company: Cousin Fanny Hart, Cousin Fanny Meriwether, Edward Mead, Sally W. and I staying in the house. Lots of cousins and friends calling in at all hours. Plenty of beaux and some of them, Number One. Had a great deal of good preaching. Attended twice each day and on two occasions went to the sunrise prayer meetings, for which I think I deserve praise, as I prize my morning nap so highly .....

May 11-16

Mr. Brown [her brother-in-law, Andrew J. Brown] brings me home early Monday morning. Find Aunt Ria and Sue much disposed to sass me about being so anxious to stay over Sunday. On Tuesday evening, the 12th, at five minutes part 9 o'clock by Aunt Ria's watch, the little baby boy [Richard Warner Lewis Anderson, the son of Daddy and Mammy Eliza] made his appearance into "this vale of tears." A name has not been found for him yet. Ellen says he is none of her kin folks but on a better acquaintance she seems much inclined to take the little fellow to her heart.

May 17-23.

A beautiful sermon from Mr. Norwood.... Sue and I were confirmed today by Bishop [William] Meade.

Miss V and Lizzie call for a few moments on their way home and carry off Aunt Ria much to my regret. My pet cat, Juba, sleeps with her fathers. She died while I was away last week. Charlotte [Macon] spends a few days with us ....Mary Walker and Tom Randolph also dine with us. A letter from Sally Williamson. Call to see Rose Bankhead; she says she is such a belle.

May 24-30

Mr. William Nelson preached. Summer at last and along with it my nose cold. A sweet long letter from Brother Garret. [Louisa's brother Garrett Minor] I wrote to Lizzie Dee. Read Old Mortality. Lizzie Dee, Aunt Bia and Miss V come up on Friday to spend their Whitsunday holidays with us. Have a pleasant but quiet time. Some nice rambles in the woods for wildwood flowers. Aunt Ria takes a turn at "the fine arts;" imagines herself one of the "old masters." We call her "the gentle Paula"...at which she is highly indignant. We build a castle for the summer at the Rawley Springs.

May 31-June 6

Hear Mr Meade...on Infant Baptism. The Castilians have me on Tuesday. I write to Sally Williamson. Adeline's [a slave woman] little Ria died on Friday.

June 7-13

Hear Mr Meade ....Little Andrew Laurie is christened. [her sister Betty Brown's son]. I stand sponsor for him. A letter from brother Peter. Hear brother Jim is very poorly. Sue and I have a table mania. Two new ones added to our stock of furniture. Read Quintin Dunward, The Vicar of Wakefield, The Black Dwarf. Mary Lewis' School had a picnic at Mr. Robinsons. We are all invited. Sue and the little girls go, but [as] I had such a bad nose cold, I declined going. Had company at home to dinner, Cousins Lou and Isabella Leitch, Giny Poon and Sarah Leitch. I'm very poorly this week as my nose cold worse then it had ever been before.

June 14-20

Hear Mr. Meade [preach] ....Wrote to Brother Garret and Miss V. A letter from Lizzie Dee. She stirs Sue up on the cat question. An old friend to dine with us, Charlie Straws. Mr. Nelson is with him. Hear Jimmy Lewis from The Creek has gone to Iowa to see a little of the world. Henry takes his place at home. A letter from Tom Davis to Sue which brings news from Missouri. Brother Dick Anderson [Dr. Richard Anderson, brother of "Daddy," Meriwether L. Anderson] and Aunt Jane Meriwether are married-what a funny match. Tom has a niece. Cousin Howel makes us a visit. Aunt Ria with us again. She makes a gay sack of 18 cents [of] gingham. Uncle Sam [Aunt Ria's husband] is expected soon.

June 21-27

Hear Mr. Meade...on prayers. Henry comes to see us once more. He looks badly. Wednesday Sue, Aunt Ria and I take our departure for town. I go to stay with sister Betty. Aunt Ria, Miss V and Lizzie...are with me part of the time. I attended a commencement of the Baptist Female Institute at their Church. There was a long speech from a Rev. Mr. Jones which was a beauty as he used that word about 75 times in the course of an hour. His subject was "Woman, what she could be made by education." Then there was a concert, the performers being Mr. Dunn's scholars and fine music it was. I was much pleased with the whole proceedings, only objected to the place. The certificates or diplomas were given out to the young ladies in real University style. On the 26th attended the celebration of the Washington society at the University and heard a fine speech. Did not enjoy the talk as much as the...soda. Get acquainted with a new cousin, Charlie Minor from Hanover [County.) I .... Am very poorly towards the last of the week. Take to strong drink for my stomach's sake.

June 28-July 4

Too sick to go to church. Do not get home until Monday evening. Take a turn for novels this week. Read three, Hawthorne's Blithedale Romance, The Forest Rose, and Aubrey. Wrote to Lizzie Dee. Had a letter from Betty Bankhead and answered it ....Harvest going on. The wheat very fine. Get all the tulips and hyacinths up, a full half bushel of each.

July 5-11

No church. Sister Mary and Brother Jim spend Wednesday night with us. They are driven in again the next night by stress of weather .... Mr. Hart also calls to escape the cloud. Hear Jimmy Davis is coming to the University next session. He has a great passion for curtailing cats of their fair proportions. Think I shall have Pets' ears and tails insured. Have my hopes much raised about visiting the Rawley Springs. Brother Jim thinks my health will be improved by a jaunt over the [Blue Ridge] mountains, but where is "the almightly dollar" to be found. Mammy E says we have nothing to wear. I would be quite willing to go without the dresses. Read Castle Avon. Also finish Little Dorrit. What a delightful book it is. I always feel in a better humour with myself and the rest of the world after reading one of Dicken's stories. A note from Lizzie Dee telling us Uncle Sam was expected on the 9th. Suppose he has now come and Aunt Ria is all "Nods and becks and wreathed smiles."

July 12-18

Mr. Meade gives us an old sermon ....On Tuesday Aunt Ria, Uncle Sam, Miss Vallant, Aunt Sally and little Maggie arrived and the next day about dinner time Uncle Bob and that "lenghtened sweetness" Lizzie Dee drive up in "The Black Warrior." I have my first kiss from uncle Bob. We have a real jolly party. "The Myth Uncle Sam" is very English in his looks and rather reserved but very entertaining when drawn out. They all leave on Thursday, Aunt Sally and Uncle Bob for home and the rest of the party for the Springs while Sue and I, poor forlorn ones, are left behind. Still it's no use grieving but I'm much disappointed. Hear of the death of poor Mrs Taylor. How mysterious are the ways of Providence when a mother is taken and her children are left but He knowns all things well. Mary Lewis at home on Wednesday; suppose her school is over now for the session. On Saturday, Mary Lewis, Nannie and I attend Mrs. Taylor's burial at Monticello. A letter from James Lewis. He talks of visiting Virginia this summer; wishes me to recommend him to some Virginia ladies as Miss Ghose, his own, has slipped her bridle and left him in the lurch. A present from Aunt Ria of a set of gold buttons for our dresses.

July 19-25

Have cousin Dabney Davis to preach for us .... Cousin Howel and Little Charlie [Charles Warner Lewis] take dinner with us. Cousin Howel seems to have great hopes for the Iowa settler. Mr. Meade calls, such an unusual circumstance, concluded to make note of it. A letter from the Rawley Springs party .... They are pleased-have not yet exercised their powers of sanction to its fullnest extent as none of them have exceeded seven glassfuls a day. Sue, Ma and I attend old Uncle Sam Leitch's funeral on Thursday. The sermon was preached by Mr. Smith in the Baptist Church. ..His remains were then taken to the grave and buried with Masonic honors. He was above 90 years of age. Wrote to Miss Vallant. A large contribution to the Family Tree from cousin Minor Meriwether. He seems much interested in the work. A note from Cousin Fanny Hart who also offers to assist me in any way she can. Wrote to Brother Peter.

July 20-Aug. 1

Have Mr. C[leland K.] Nelson to preach today ....On our return from church find Miss Vallant at home. The Springs did not agree with her so she left the party and came to us ....She gives us all the news about the visitors at the Springs. Says those gorgeous tulips under the magic touch of the "Gentle Paula" are progressing rapidly. An affair of the heart on the prospect. Parties concerned two of my friends. What a funny world this is. Materials sufficient for another Vol of "Records of the Heart." Wrote to Lizzie Dee. Had a letter from Betty Bankhead. She tells me Georgiana [probably Georgiana Bankhead Moncure] has a son. Hear Kenneth or the Rear Guard of the Grand Army read aloud, a tale of stormy times.

Aug. 2-8

Had our new minister Mr. Butler to preach for us today. Quite a good sermon ....Hope he may make full proof of his mission and be a great comfort both to Mr Meade and his flock. A long letter from Tom Davis. Finish reading Sydney Smith's Critical and Miscellaneous Writings in 3 vols. A letter from Lizzie Dee with a stray leaf of wintergreen from The Rawley. Miss McPherson spends a few days with us. We find her very agreeable. Ma, Sue and I have an invite to Sue Watson's wedding on the 11th and as we ( that is Sue and I) thank of accepting we are very busy getting ready. Make a new dress for the occasion which is very pretty and wedding like. Cousin Sarah Gilmer, Juliet and Sally Minor are with us for a day and night. Cousin Sarah is a charming old lady. The young ladies are very amusing. Saw Walker Gilmer on Sunday. He told me all about my brothers Garret and Peter-seems to know them well.

Aug. 9-15

Go down early in the morning to Uncle Bob's --find him very poorly -confined to his bed. Attend church at the Cathedral. Hear a sermon from the Bible agent, Mr. Lyon....After church go to Music Hall. Brother Jim is very poorly. He starts on Monday for the Springs. Sister Mary and the children go to the Green Springs [Sister Mary's family lived there] to be taken care of while he is away. Hope they will all be back in a week or so. Brother Jim leaves me to report the progress of things at home. I feel of great importance. A "leap in the dark" in consequence of eating too much of Aunt Sally's sausage for supper. Hear cousin Jim Missouri has arrived in Virginia. Our curiosity is on tip toes to see him. On the 11th attend Sue Watson's wedding at Clarksville-had a nice time. Col. Harris [a Mississipian] is a fine looking man. He and Sue were a very handsome couple. The entertainment was some up town; the yard beautifully illuminated with colored lamps. For prominading lots of moonlight sentiment and soft illusions-nonsense talked. Cousin Jim got to Uncle Bob's in time to go to the wedding with us. We are much pleased with him. He calls us scamps and a great many other pet names. Treats us in a very cousiny manner. Lizzie Dee and Aunt Ria get home on Wednesday much improved in health and looks. They have much to relate to us of their adventure by "flood and field." Aunt Ria, Aunt Sally and Miss V start for New York on Monday next. We must look out for the Castilians as Aunt Sally is going to New York. Sister Betty, Mr. Brown and all the children are here so we have a houseful. We think the "wigs are bothered" not a little. A happy termination to the long joke. Hope. I shall hear no more of it, for I'm heartily sick of such stuff and nonsense. Letter to Brother Jim and Mary Lewis. Fear the servants at Music Hall are behaving very ill. Feel ready to write and tell brother Jim and come home. Aunt Ria and I have a ride on horseback before breakfast which knocks me up for the day.

Aug. 16-22

Too hot for church. Call to see Mary Walker and her little girl which is now over two weeks old. She is called Margaret Douglas. Aunt Sally, Aunt Ria and Miss Vallant start on Monday for New York. We will miss them all much. Aunt Sally gave us a great many charges before leaving-such as taking care of Uncle Bob, the children, chickens and cats. This latter are left especially to my care. As we keep the keys while she is absent we expect to live like Queen Vic and the bill of fare for the next two weeks will be equal to The St. Nicholas unless perhaps too many cooks may spoil the broth and our goodies turn out badly. I'm sorry Aunt Ria has gone from among us for I feel much attached to her. What a pity that she cannot live near to us. Spend two days at Kinloch. Have a merry time-the house full of company. Quite a number of their Yankee friends. Met [David Meriwether Anderson] is very homesick until he gets back to Uncle Bobs. Johnny laughs at him very much for crying after Lizzie Dee and Tommy [Lewis, Uncle Bob's children.]. Cousin Tom takes me on a nice long ride on horseback. We go through the Tarleton Wood [named for the British colonel, Banastre Tarleton, who raided Albemarle County in 1781.] We had dinner at the Creek on Thursday. Find Cousin Sarah in bed but in fine spirits. Molly and Mr. Fry [Mary Carr Lewis and John J. Fry, Cousin Sarah Lewis' daughter and son-in-law] are with her. They leave for their home in the far west on Saturday 22nd. A letter from brother Jim. He thinks his health has improved. The Dr. says he ought to stay longer. He talks of sending for Sister Mary and little Dick. Things are improving at Music Hall. The little riots have been quelled without any difficulty. The servants insist that I will not go home until their master or mistress return, as they must have someone to look up to. I wrote to Aunt Sally and brother Jim. Get a letter from Mary Lewis. She talks of joining us here very soon, also hear from Mammy E. Sally Pride, she tells me, has a daughter. Ma is very poorly. I feel as if I ought to go home. Finish reading Hedley Vicars Life. What a real hero he was. Lizzie Dee and I have a ride in "The Black Warrior" to Keswick. The weather cool and pleasant.

Aug. 23-29

Go to Grace Church and hear a sermon from Mr. Boyden but owing to my defective hearing, I'm not much edified. Mary Lewis and Jim get down in time for church. Mary Lewis remains with us. Jim returns after dinner taking Met with him. Poor little fellow, he wanted to see home and is animated very much. Mary Lewis brings us word Ma is better. They have known lots of company since we left home. Spend a day and night at Clover Fields. Mary Walker seems to be uncommonly well considering all things. [She was dying of tuberculosis.] Cousin Peggy [Nelson] and I talk of kin folks. Mr. [Francis K.] Nelson is away. Also stay a day and night at cousin Fanny Hart's and such a merry party as we have. Miss Betsy Hart from Richmond and May Hart and our party included Lizzie Dee Lewis, E. Craven, Sue, Mary Lewis, John Sinclair, Robert Lewis, Hugh Nelson and I. It surely made me feel quite young to be with such a frolicing set. Bob takes his first lessons in flirting. Miss Betsy "puts him through." We walk home and on our way make the wedding call at Clarksville. -cousin Jane took us for a crowd of beggars, such a rowdy look crew as we were with borrowed shoes, old cloaks and chicken bonnets. Brother Jim and his whole family get back on Wednesday. He is not as much improved as I had hoped for. Looks very feeble. Hope the full benefit of the water, is yet to be felt. Spent one day with them intending going over the next day bag and baggage but the rain prevented. "The night of terror." A mere matter of moon shine, however. Put up at Music Hall on Friday. Quiet happy times.

Aug. 30-Sept. 5

No church. Read Mrs. Scott's little book on Africa. Have William Terril to dine with us. Don't think age improves him. A visit from Uncle Tom; he discourses about the issues. Miss Walker is quite entertaining with her stories of bygone times. Some visiting this week. Go down to the Creek by especial invitation to meet cousin Jimmy on Monday evening. The next day Sept. lst was spent on Peter's Mountain. Oh for the pen of a ready writer to do justice to [the] glorious prospect that spread itself before my eyes but as I have none of that spark divine in my commonplace nature, do what I would, I could not inspire any muse to help in [writing] the thoughts that filled my heart. Truly there is beauty all around our paths. In the dim distance were pointed out to us two peaks clothed in their azure blue and said to be the Peaks of Afton but I have my doubts as to whether they were the bona fide Afton Peaks. Our party consisted of Sue, Mary Lewis, Nanny and Julia Lewis, my niece Lizzie [Minor], Cousin Jimmy [from Missouri], Henry and Nicky Lewis and myself. We got back to the Creek about 5 o'clock in the evening and after getting some cold dinner go up to Music Hall to tea. Spend a day at cousin Fanny Meriwethers and am introduced to the two Miss Pegrams. At Clover Fields for another night. Quite an exhibition of babies. Cousin Jimmy accompanies us in our processionals. On getting back to Uncle Bobs Thursday morning we are much surprised to find the New York party returned. They got back the day before. Aunt Sally is much delighted with all she saw. She brings Sue and I a nice present and Miss Vallant does not forget us. We have lots to talk to Miss Vallant about. An invitation to tea at Uncle Bob's on Thursday night. I conclude to spend the night. Next evening have the Castalians to tea with us at Music Hall. Mr. Dabney spends the evening with us. Cousin Jimmy commits a great indiscretion-at least it seemed so to us Virginians. He; however, was repentent and we forgiving as we are first cousins. I think we Virginians are the oddest people with such notions of propriety. A letter from home. Ma is much better

Sept. 6-12

No church. Take a peep at Grandpa Douglas' [Parson William Douglas of Louisa County] library. What a collection of musty old volumes--some of them over two hundred years old. Bob Lewis is anxious to be librarian to them. Uncle Hatter arrives about eleven o'clock to take us home. Brings word cousin Ann Macmurdo and Prissie and their babies are at Pantops. Pack in double quick time and get home to dinner. Cousin Jimmy comes with us. Prissie is a good deal altered in her looks since her marriage but with the same warm heart. Her little boy is a sprightly little fellow. His name is Johnny. Cousin Ann is as charming as ever. We enjoyed seeing Cousin Sop [Cunningham Wardrop Macmurdo] as he made a short stay. Take Prissie and Cousin Jimmy to the University to see the picture. It is my first sight of it by daylight and though no judge of such things, to my dull fancy it was beautiful exceeding. Do a good deal of sewing this week as there is a chance for our going to The Fair. [The Agricultural Fair held in Richmond.] Cousin Ann has invited us and the old folks seem to encourage the idea. So me mean to be ready. Jimmy left us on Friday. Hope to see him again before he has to leave for Missouri.

Sept. 13-19

Hear Mr. Meade [preach] ....Spend a very pleasant week, sewing, talking, etc. Cousin Ann and Prissie leave on Saturday. A panic seizes the household about the Sick Maid. Read "Oliver." Wrote to Aunt Ria and Betty Bankhead. Cousin Fanny and Mr. Hart with us for a day. I forgot to note the death of Old Pam [one of the dogs]. He was gathered to his fathers while I was in the lower neighborhood. I'm glad he has gone for his great age, nearly 13 years, made him unable to enjoy life. Now Bruno is the last rose of summer. Both of his companions have forever gone.

Sept. 20-26

A beautiful sermon from Richard Davis from the text, "Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of Life."....Cousin Jim Trice spends a day and night with us, a very unexpected pleasure. He is getting to be such a stout old gentleman. He is very anxious to take Sue and I out to Clarksville with him. Says we must write him word when we are ready and he will come for us. I think it a very fair offer. Get the hyacinths and tulips put out. It is quite a job. Lizzie Dee comes Tuesday and spends the rest of the week with us; as a matter of course we enjoy her company, such kindred spirits as we are. Cousin Jimmy back again for a night. Hear he is thinking of going to the University this session. Hope he may do honor to the Lewis name. Cousin Howel and Henry to dine with us. Ma very poorly. Got lots of togs for the Fair, among them a nice silk dress which is pretty and genteel. How I will have to stitch, stitch, stitch with fingers weary and worn to get ready in time.

Sept. 27-Oct. 3

Hear Mr. Butier [preach] ....A letter from Miss Vallant, Betty Bankhead and Tom Davis. The latter has made another move and is now living in St. Joe [St. Joseph, MO] clerking for his Uncle William. Seems as much in love as ever with "somebody." Betty B[ankhead] tells me Rose is to be married very soon but does not give us the name of the happy man; presume it is Mr. Richard Winston. Ma spends this week in the lower neighborhood. Hope the change may benefit her health. Cousin Jimmy on the carpet again. He has come to say goodbye for he leaves for Missouri next week having decided or rather had it decided for him that he shall not remain at the University. I'm glad we have seen each other and hope we may meet again at some not very distant day and that his impressions of Virginia and his kin have been favorable ones. Make lots of pickles, both sweet and Mexican. Dress a doll for cousin Lou. Sue, Mammy E and I go visiting. Call to see Mrs. Barker and her daughter, but find them out. We then call to see Mrs. Massie and find her very agreeable. Wrote to Miss Vallant. Trim the fall bonnet.

Oct. 4-10

Hear Mr. Mead in the morning ....A sermon from Mr. Latane in the evening on Christian Charity...Go at night with Lizzie Dee, Sue and Cousin Jimmy to hear Mr. Broaddus [preach] .... We are well repaid. I stay with Sister Betty until Thursday. Cousin Jimmy is also her guest until Thursday morning when he bids us all farewell; takes Sue, Lizzie and I away in his lockets. He also leaves us his picture. On Monday I stay at Dr. Leitch's while Sue is shopping up. Cousin Lou invites Jimmy to take tea with us and we have a pleasant time. How much it reminds me of bygone hours, of the many, many, happy evenings I've spent in that same parlor with dear Mat.

"And where'ere I turn my eye Back upon the days gone by Saddening thoughts of friends come over me Friends who closed their course before me."

Mary Lewis comes to town this week to commence school. She has put up at Dr. Leitch's for the present. Will go to Midway as soon as it is thought there is no danger of fever. Read Hansford, Mr. Tucker's new work. A letter at last from my friend Sally Williamson. She makes many excuses for her long silence, none of which I think sufficient but she seems sorry for her neglect and begs me not to think anything of it. I intend to write soon and show a forgiving spirit. Much to our distress Ma is busy gathering apples. The cold weather will soon be upon us. The maple has already donned its bright red dress reminding us that the Mighty Painter is abroad and with a few waves of his magic pencil the emerald green of our forests will be changed to the thousand gorgeous dyes of autumn.

Oct. 11-17

Hear Mr. Butler [preach] ....Ma very poorly. Dr. Leitch is sent for; she is better by Saturday. I'm housekeeper, work I don't at all enjoy. A great deal of rain. Read Miss Murray's Letters from the United States, Cuba and Canada and find it very entertaining. Had a letter and the sweetest rosebud from Miss Detsey Catlett. Wrote a long letter to Sally Williamson. Brother Jim dines with us on Saturday. He is looking much better. Finish pickling. Put up about 28 gals.

Oct. 18-24

The service was very interesting this morning. The Service was read by Mr. Butler. Mr. Meade preached a beautiful sermon ....Mr. Latane was then admitted to Priest's Orders by Bishop Meade, a very impressing ceremony and one that I witnessed for the first time. The communion was also administered.

Little Ellen quite poorly. Ma about again. A letter from Aunt Ria. She says the New Yorkers have a panic about broken banks. Think it has extended South for the gentlemen talk of nothing but bank suspension. They say such times were never known before. I wrote to Tom Davis. The children are all very poorly with kind of influenza which is traveling through the neighborhood. Cool weather. Ma sick again. Johnny [Macmurdo] gets up on Saturday to escort us down to Richmond. If Ma is not much better, I will not go.

Oct. 25-31

Hear a beautiful sermon from Mr. Butler.... Cousin Sarah Gilmer sends me a nice book, Morning and Night Watches. Little Dick has his first tooth. Such barking times as we are having with the bad colds. Ma is much better so we conclude to go on Monday 26th. Have a nice time going down. Meet Mr. B. Williams, an old Orange friend. Got down in time for dinner and are kindly received by the household. Find Mr. Pemberton there but am much disappointed when he tells us Prissie and Johnny Pem. are left at home; however, cousin Sop sends off for her in the evening and she is with us to breakfast on Wednesday morning; also Kate and Henry Eustace. Matrimony has made a decided change for the better in the latter. He charms me as a cousin, is much of a gentleman in his manners and is as kind as possible. Seems fond of his Minor relations and says some of his sunniest hours were spent in Albemarle. I'm introduced to his father, a pleasant old gentleman. Have a very bad cold the day after I get down but with the help of a mustard plaster and hot bath and keeping very closely in doors for a day on Wednesday I'm well enough to go to the fair. Visited the grounds again on Thursday and Friday and saw all that was to be seen. Some of the horses were very handsome, particularly Red Eye and Kosseth. The racing was exciting and seems the greatest attraction for both ladies and gentlemen. The display of needle work and fancy fixings were very small but some of the articles were exceedingly pretty and ingenious. Chickens were abundant from Shanghais as tall as a three years old child to the dearest little bantams not larger than pigeons. A great variety of ducks, geese and a pair of milk white turkeys. I had also a glimpse of a very sinister looking Buzzard feeding upon some kind of a fowl that looked and smells as if it might have been killed during the Dog Days. Two beautiful rabbits, a number of Guinea Pigs, White Bats, Pigeons and other small game were near neighbors. There was a great show of big potatoes, beets, onions and every variety of vegetables. Met with a great many friends on the Fair ground and many of them I have not seen for three or four years. The crowd of people was about the greatest sight I saw. Very cold damp weather. Have a merry time at Cousin Sops. Prissie and Mr. Pemberton, Kate and Henry Eustace, Bolling Picket and a part of the time, John Picket and May Bryce, beside Sue and I, making it great quarters. Mary, Molly, Betsy, Saidy, Gertie and Helen Macmurdo have also been with us. Hear several times from home. Ma is much better. Cousin Mildred and her big man George have made us a visit of a day and night, so Mammy E writes us. Betsy Hart calls to see us; she is the same smart little creature we all fell in love with last summer. Miss Hartley Graham and Mrs. Wirt Robinson also make us a call. Miss Hartley takes my fancy very much. I cannot help weaving a little web of romance about her. There must be some story of the heart connected with her life's history. On Saturday we went to the Mechanics Fair and what a treat it was. So many curiosities from foreign parts. A large collection of pictures, some of them very handsome and ingenious. One a picture of Washington crossing the Delaware on the memorable Dec. 25, 1776, and the blocks of ice were all formed of rock candy. Such a sweet picture. Then there was Hiawatha's wooing of Minnehaha Laughing Water, "handsomest of all the women in the land of handsome women." A great variety of fancy work, of leather, burrs, sheets and needle work of every description. I could fill a whole page and not have begun to list all of the strange, the passing strange sights that were before my eyes but I must not forget the American Eagle, a noble looking bird with his wings extended in real spread eagle style. Met with Cousin Peggie Nelson; quite a treat to see a familiar face among so many strange ones. On our return found Mr. Pemberton gone. See several of the Richmond beaux. They have such FFV [First Family of Virginia] names.

Nov. 1-7

Go in the morning to the Monument Church and hear Mr. Woodbridge [preach] ....In the afternoon a party of us walked over to Old St. John's [Episcopal] Church and hear a sermon from Mr. Kepler....Felt it a great privilege to be able to worship God in its hallowed walls. The sight of its grand old pulpit and sounding board and altogether its look of the olden times carried me back to the "days that tried mens souls" for it was here that the immortal [Patrick] Henry hurled forth his thunders against the tyranny of Britain declaring for "Liberty or Death." Around the old building and up to its very doorstep lie the sleeping dead. Some of the monuments date back a long way. Here repose some of the men and women who peopled all the city streets a hundred years ago, who filled the Church with faces meek a hundred years ago. It is a dear old spot and I was so gratified that I've been to see it. After the service was over we wondered about the yard looking at the monuments and reading the inscriptions until the day was far spent and we had a bright unshrouded moon to light us home. After tea attended services at St. Pauls [Episcopal Church] and had a sermon by Mr. Minnegarode....Called to see cousin Peggie, Charlotte and Mary B. Williams but found none of them at home. Go to see Barber's "Coyster" which is said to equal the "Greek Slave." We are invited by Messrs Kennon and Byrd to visit the Athenaeum to see [William J.] Hubard's new picture of Washington copied from the statue in the Capitol. It is said to be a very fine painting. I saw there a great collection of old pictures, books, etc. One of the most beautiful faces was reputed to be one of the beauties of Charles 2nd's Court. Then was also a very fine portrait of Pocahontas, another of Black Hawk and of all of Virginia's distinguished sons. The old books were a rare collection; some of them such treasures. I never spent a morning more to my satisfaction. Go at night to the African Church [First African Baptist Church] to hear a brass band. The performers [were] little darkies, the smallest not five year old. They were led by a white boy about nine. Go out to Hollywood [Cemetery] in the morning but start too late to see much. Go back to town in a hack with seven in and four out. Find Mr. Gus Haxall and lady at cousin Sops. We are all introduced to the wife. Go out teasing to Mr. Clarks and Mr. James Macmurdos. At Mr. C's have quite a dove party until late in the evening when some of the many brothers and cousins come in. The girls are much interesting in "Noobins." Sadie Macmurdo sings like a nightingale. At Mr. J. M's, quite a company of ladies and gentlemen; among the latter was the free and easy Mr. Willie Empie. Prissie leaves us on Wednesday. We are so sorry to give her up but duty calls and she ought to obey. Cousin Ann, Miss Rose, Sue, Kathleen and I take a ride in the horse car to Egglin's Garden late one evening and find ourselves benighted. Mr. E kindly offers to see us safely on the cars and we find our way back to Richmond sometime after the gas is lighted-quite an adventure for country girls. Saturday the weather was so warm I had to give up. Took a glass of porter and spent the day on the bed. After tea, Gertie Macmurdo and Mr. Mason come in; get quite well acquainted with Mr. Mason as we have many mutual friends. Good news from home. Ma is about again. Dick has two teeth. He is as forward as a cucumber. Had a letter from Miss Vallant. She writes in better spirits. Hope she is taking a right view of things at last.

Nov. 8-14

A very warm day. Go in the morning to St. James [Episcopal Church] and hear Mr. [Joshua] Peterkin ....After dinner go to the Catholic Church but get in just as the congregation was turning their faces homeward. At night go to St. Pauls [Episcopal Church] and hear Mr. Minnegerode on "visiting sins." What a fine sermon it was and not one in his congregation but what felt a home thrust. Gentlemen visitors all day. A bad arrangement for Sunday. Monday was spent in returning calls. Have a pleasant visit on Gambles Hill made to Mrs. George Kennon. She is very chatty. While there her brothers and their friend Mr. B. B. made their appearance. When we left they would not see us off although they knew it was disagreeable for the wind blew a perfect gale; very rude in them, I thought. Call to see Miss Hartley. What a sour old maid she is. A large party of us take a ride in the omnibus to Rocketts [probably Rocketts landing.] On the way cousin Ann points out everything to be seen of any note; among the most noted is the Old State House on Main Street. Its glory has now departed and it would never be noticed by the side of the handsome structures all around it and its associations with the past alone gives it any interest. "In days long gone" it was honored by the visits of Washington, Jefferson, Lafayette, Madison, Henry and many other distinguished personages. Go to the glass blowers and see such beautiful specimens of birds, ships and flowers of glass. Walk out to Hollywood [Cemetery] on Wednesday evening. What a lovely spot it is! Death is robbed of many of its terrors when we see our last resting place looking so calm and beautiful. Some of the monuments were very handsome; too fine in my opinion. It seems a kind of mockery for can "flattery soothe the dull cold ear of death?"

Go one evening to see Signor Blitz and his wonderful Canary Birds. The Signor did not afford me much amusement with his slight of hand tricks, but the birds and rabbits were something very wonderful even in this age of wonders. Walk out one evening to Gambles Hill to see the view which is very fine. Call at the Armory and see the big guns; also have a peep at Pratt's Castle. What a little gem it is! Walking back that evening by the moon's pale light I could not help in imagination peopling the castle with some of those stern old warriors of old clad in their suits of mail [sic]; of course some of the guns I had seem at The Armory guarded the battlements and in my fancy made it a complete Castle Dangerous. There was a "ladye fair and her squire of low degree" and all such stuff and nonsense as waking dreams are made of. Thursday before we leave call on Mrs. Wirt Robinson and Aunt Sophy. Find the former out. Have a nice long chat with Aunt Sophy about home and the darkies. Go down town to buy goodies for the little ones at home. Start back with six big bundles; are relieved by Mr. Willie Empie. He spends the rest of the day at cousin Sops. Sadie [Macmurdo] is also there. After night many of the other girls are also with us so we have a merry time dancing, talking, etc. So it is after 11 o'clock before the goodbyes are said. Friday very early Sue, Johnny, and I are off for "home, sweet home." Cousins Ann and Sop go with us as far as Ashland where we get a nice hot breakfast and are off again. Find the old folks at home well and right glad to see us. The Lodge has been nicely fixed up during our absence and the mice have taken possession. Ellen is charmed with her doll baby and the other children are much pleased with their Richmond presents. Hear of the death of William Page and Elisa Nelson. Truly as a flower of the field, we flourish then the wind passeth over it and it is gone. Mary Lewis is at home.

Nov. 15-21

Johnny leaves us for home. Hear Mr. Slack [preach] . ...Find on my return from Richmond a letter from Jimmy postmarked 19th Oct. containing a piece of evergreen from Maggie. Quite a treasure. Also a letter from brother Garret announcing the birth of another daughter which he thinks of calling Mariola Garret. A long letter from S.P. Williamson this week. She gives me the news of Rose Bankhead's marriage to Mr. Winston last week. A letter from Jimmy after he got home. Miss Ghose is married to his brother John and Jimmy has concluded to "love her as a sister" as he could not as a wife. Tells us Thursday the 19th of this month is set as Tom's wedding day. Get things in order for work. Met has been introduced now to the spelling book and multiplication tables. Hope he may make great headway this winter. Very cold and blustering weather. It seems quite strange when we left home the last of Oct. all nature was clothed in its rich and varied dress and on our return the middle of Nov. to find all cheerless and barren and gray forlorn.

Sue and I go out making visits. Call to see Sue and Jim Taylor; also cousin Lou Leitch. Find Miss Virginia Sampson with her. She gives us a very laughable account of an adventure she had with the gas. Miss Vallant comes on Friday. We enjoy her company very much. Seems in good spirits; gives us the latest news which was satisfactory ....

Nov. 22-28

A beautiful sermon from Mr. Meade....A great deal of sickness all around us. Seven deaths at the University and several in town. Wrote to Sally W. and Aunt Ria. A letter from Miss Vallant. Daddy goes to Richmond, Thursday on business ....

Nov. 29-Dec. 5

Have Mr. William J. Nelson to preach for us from the text, "What think ye of Christ?" Sue had a letter from Jimmy after he got home. Miss Johnson is married to his brother John. Sue and I go out to see Sue and Jane Taylor and also cousin Lou Leitch. Sue has a letter from Jimmy Lewis (NOT of the Creek) telling us his sister Emma and Tom Davis were married the 19th of November. Finish a second revised and corrected edition of my family tree. The paper on which the other one was made was too small to get down all the twigs, so I had to draw it off again on a larger sheet of paper. It is now ready to be lithographed when I get the where-with-all to do it with ....Times dull. Cousin Peggie and Mr. Nelson spend a night with us. Friday morning cousin Peggy invited us to ride to town with her. Sue and I go and dine with Cousin Lou Leitch. Have a pleasant time. Hear it reported that cousin George Meriwether has married another first cousin. If true this will be the third one and last two were sisters. [Inserted below] It was a mistake. A letter from Lizzie Dee, she and Miss Vallant talk of spending Xmas with us. Wrote to Jimmy Lewis. Mary Lewis and Miss McPherson [probably M.A. McPherson, a teacher at the Piedmont Female Institute] with us the last of the week. Daddy still in Richmond. On Saturday morning Miss McPherson, Jim and I take a jaunt on horseback to Thurmond's Mountain and indulge our eyes in a magnificent prospect. Find Tom Davis' name cut in a rock. I feel for the next day or two as if I was 80 years of age.

Dec. 6-12

A rainy Sunday. Miss McPherson and Mary Lewis leave on Monday. Finish reading Lee's Memoirs of the Wars. Read also The Old Homestead by Mrs. [Anna Sophia] Stephens. A letter from brother Peter. Friday go over to get some of the Xmas for the children and while in town sister Betty sends me word I've an invitation to Miss Leaton's concert so I stay in and go. [Miss Ann Leaton is principal of the Piedmont Institute, an academy for women.] Have a nice time. Some very sweet music especially from Mr. Fry. Saturday evening, Mr. Butler takes tea with us. I have a novel introduction from my niece, Lily [Brown]. While in town I get acquaintd with Miss Betty Lewis [of the Piedmont Institute]. She is a sweet creature. I'm anxious to have some relationship between us.

Dec. 13-19

Mr. Meade preaches from Matt 3:19. I come home after church and find Daddy has returned. He made his appearance very unexpectedly on Saturday. Mary Lewis at home sick. The hogs are killed this week; a pig tail feast for dinner. Hear of Ellen Gilmer's death. She died on Sunday morning about four o'clock. Her last end was peace. Wrote to Sally Lea, brother Peter, Betty Bankhead, Miss Betsey Catlett and Lizzie Dee. Get the Xmas Tree all ready-at least find it and get the articles all ready to be hung on. Saturday, Sue, Mammy E and I go over to call on Mrs Michie and are introduced to her sister Miss Budd; quite a pretty looking girl. We also call to see Cousin Lou Leitch. Sue has a letter from Ellen Macmurdo telling us she will be up on Thursday next. Kathleen [Macmurdo] has to stay at home and play darkie during the holidays.

Dec. 20-26

Mr. Smith preached Ellen Gilmer's funeral sermon in our church this morning ....Cousin Howel with us. Miss Vallant gets up on Wednesday in time to mutter her incantation over the John Bull pudding for Xmas. I can't say whether she calls up spirits from the very deep but her spiel seems to aid the mixing. Mary Lewis' friends, Peggie Carr, Peggie Taylor and Sarah Leitch with Johnny Macmurdo, Sam and Nannie Leitch, Miss Vallant and we Pantopians make up our Xmas party. We were disappointed that Ellan Macmurdo could not come. Xmas Day it snowed forth until two o'clock. The tree came off at early candle light and it was very handsome. Ellen [Anderson] was in a perfect whirl of delight. Seemed not to know what to do with herself. At last got down on the floor and rolled. The old folks and children were much pleased with Santa Claus' offerings. Mine was a little brown jug filled with sweet breads. Sue, Miss Vallant and I decked off the parlor very prettily with greens in honor of the season. On Saturday, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Michie and her sister, Miss Budd, dined with us. We are soon to lose them as neighbors as Mr. Michie gives up the place the first of the new year. We join in a few Xmas games with the youngsters in the parlor but Miss Vallant, Sue and I take our real enjoyment up in the Lodge around a nice Xmas fire. A joint letter from Aunt Ria wishes us all a merry Xmas. A letter from Sally Williamson. She tells me they are going back to Woodville to live. Will move this week. Ellen Bankhead is to be married sometime in January to Mr. Merideth.

Dec. 27-31, 1857

Hear Mr. Meade [preach a]...beautiful Xmas sermon. Johnny Macmurdo leaves today and the rest of the company by Tuesday except Miss Vallant. We have such great enjoyment reading, working, etc. Sorry Lizzie Dee could not be with us but she had company at home .... Well the old year is fast waning. In another hour (now 11 o'clock) it will be gone and forever. I'm looking back through the last 12 months, for I find it vastly wise to talk with my past hours and ask of them what report they give of me to Heaven. How much I feel and know has been done that should have been left undone and as much undone that should have been performed. Will another year find me better? With all my short comings, how much I've been blessed. Around me "death's hand" has been on many homes but my Household Gods have remained unshakened. I hope I have a thankful heart.