THE

CANADIAN POCKET DIARY FOR 1886.

TORONTO: PUBLISHED BY BROWN BROS.

January FRIDAY, 1 1886

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The warm weather is certainly {illegible} a saving of feed for stock for {illegible} for hay don't require {illegible} so {illegible} Am will so {illegible}

JANUARY SATURDAY, 2 1886

Billy and I put in a load of straw for the horses this morning. He has been getting out manure and draw-up wood the ball.{ballance} of the day. The weather continues nice and warm. Victor mail came to day for the first, and our post office is an established fact. Went to the cheese factory this afternoon to recieve ball. of years proceeds, from cheese sales, &c {etc}.

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JANUARY SUNDAY, 3 1886

Ma and I went out to meeting this morning as usual. We had barely got there when it began to rain and continued almost incessantly until after we got home this evening. Services both morning and evening were interesting and profitable followed this morning, preaching perhaps... We took dinner with Mifs Giles

JANUARY MONDAY, 4 1886

The rain that began falling at about eleven o'clock yesterday has continued throughout last night and the past day, and still it rains. I went up to the Wiggins schoolhouse to put in my vote for the new council, through the rain and mud, on foot. The weather is quite warm as well as rainy. Frost has about disappeared everywhere.

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JANUARY TUESDAY, 5 1886

Billy and I have been working in the woods most of the time to day packing up down timber of all sorts. The weather continues quite warm and very muddy. There is some prospect of a change however, to colder weather. It is a great treat to have the daily paper come every other day even, and that without going to Dover on purpose, so much for our new post office.

January Wednesday, 6 1886

Billy and I have been working away in the woods to day geting down stuff cut and piled up ready to draw The weather has been quite cold for a change, I like cold weather in the winter time however. Reed and I walked down to Mrs. L Clarke this evening to see if they had heard from their friends below lately. Found that they had not. & so our walk was for nothing.

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January Thursday, 7 1886

The cold weather still continues and seems likely to do so. Billy has been geting up wood and cuting it to day. I went out to Dover this after with W. K. W. to look after some matters relating to household want &c. Sent the ballance due to my threshers to day by Registered letter. The latter promises to be my plan of sending money in future.

January Friday, 8 1886

Billy and I have been cuting away at the drier wood as usual. We are geting a nice pile ready to draw. quite a beginning to our summer pile of wood. The weather is very cold and windy with every prospect of a snow storm soon. We are looking for snow because we need it I suppose To cover the wheat &c; and to make better roads, for traffic

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January Saturday,9 1886

The cold is becoming more and more severe, &, the East and North East wind is blowing almost a gale. There seems a prospect of a snow storm before long. Billy and I have been cuting wood in the woods again to day. It just happens that we can work nicely in the woods notwithstanding the cold. The weather appears to have become settled Winter weather.

January Sunday, 10 1886

Ma and I did not go out to church to day as usual; but, we sent Charlotte and Mr. Reed out instead. The weather has been quite cold and windy. Have been reading and trying to proffit in other ways during the quiet of the Holy Sabbath. We find it quite proffitable to spend these days in this way occasionaly it seems so necessary to have a change occasionaly

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January Monday, 11 1886

Billy and I got another load of straw into the drive-barn this forenoon. John Pattison came after the ballance due him to day. was thankful to be able to pay him up in full. I went down to Holcomb this evening on foot James did not get in until late, however he told me that his father was very poorly and not likely to live a great while.

January Tuesday, 12 1886

I took a grist of oats and peas out to mill to day over the very rough roads. Got along all right however Have had Billy drawing wood from the woods. The weather has been very cold to day - The coldest day of the season I think, Brought- home a quarter of beef from Dover, Rosses to day which I got for 6 1/2 cts per pound

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January Wednesday, 13 1886

The weather has been very fine the past day but windy. Billy and I have been cuting wood in the woods this afternoon. We are having a visit from two little girls of Charly Wilsons. I cannot help feeling old when I see these girls. they are half grown up; and yet it only seems as yesterday when they were little things.

January Thursday, 14 1886

Billy and I have been working in the woods again this forenoon. The day has been a delightful one. I went to the Grange this afternoon. Had a rather interesting meeting. Bro. Glasbrooke of Simcoe being with us. Recieved my ten dollars salary which was some satisfaction to me & a partial return at least from the troubles of my office.

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January Friday, 15 1886

I went up to Simcoe this afternoon to attend the Farmers Institute there. Professor Brown and the Veterinary surgeon from the Ontario Experimental farm were there. Attendance good the subject of permenant pastures was first discussed. Some very important points were made. Was satisfied that such pasture will revolutionise our country as a dairy producing section of New World.

January Saturday, 16 1886

I stayed all night at Dave Marrs last night and was quite comforable for Winter. Attended both sessions of the Institute to day. Did not see any there from my own section except the Shand's. Rain has been falling to day, all the time. David Wooley's Essay on the best mode of exterminating the Canada Thistle & all the benefits of Plaster as manure combined with cloverseed & other manure.

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January Sunday, 17 1886

Mother and I went out to church this morning. Had our new minister to preach to us both morning and evening. The minister preached about the afflictions of Job in the morning, and with good effect. The good Lord was with us in all our services. Resumed to Sunday school, which I enjoyed very much. Had dinner at Mr. Stringers and tea at Mr. Wills.

January Monday, 18 1886

Billy and I have been cuting wood in the woods to day, the weather is quite cold and Windy with good prospects of snow. We went down to Wattses Nice evening to spend a few hours with them. I took down nineteen bushels of oats which I agreed to take some time ago. {illegible} of our horses, Maggie unfortunately got kicked in Wallsis stable.

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January Tuesday,19 1886

Ma and I went up to Simcoe this morning to attend the Division Grange, Ma visited at Mr Murphys while I was at the Grange. The attendance was fair and we had a pleasant time. It fell to my lot to be elected. Oversee against my own inclination. Our Granges do not seem to be prospering to any extent There seems a hopeful outlook however.

January Wednesday,20 1886

Billy and I have been geting in a load of straw for the horses to day; and, a pit of potatoes. Took three bags up to Hiz perkis & put the others in the cellar for our own use. The weather has been pretty cold too - and to night it is snowing with every prospect of a heavy fall of snow. Dollie went after Sarah Walch to day again. She has been down to Nanticoke on a visit.

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January Thursday, 21 1886

Billy and I have been geting a grist of grain ready to take to the mill for chop this forenoon. I sent him to Rose's mill this afternoon with it. Ma and I went up to Woodhouses this afternoon. Took tea at John Gilberts and from there we went to the tea meeting at the old Woodhouse Chappel. Had a very pleasant time, Rev. W.H. Laird was there besides some other ministers.

January Friday, 22 1886

We have been working on the woods to day. Billy and I cuting fire-wood. There has been a heavy wind and snow storm in progress. Through out the day and specialy this evening. It is mostly wind however. Have just been told that some hotel keepers in Simcoe have been taken up and fined a large amount for breaking the Scott Act. {The Scott Act was another name for the 1878 Canada Temperance Act.}

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January Saturday, 23 1886

Billy and I worked at cuting wood in the woods this forenoon. This afternoon he has been drawing up wood while Ma and I went out to Dover to make a visit - mostly at Mrs Barretts. Enjoyed the evening with them very much. They were all home but Clarence who is at the Art School in Toronto. Alice has just come home from visiting in Toronto.

January Sunday, 24 1886

The weather is very cold, so much so that Ma would not go out to church with me this morning, so I took Mr. Reid. Had an excellent sermon from our pastor and a proffitable after service besides. Came home to dinner and remained home ballance of the day. Mr & Mrs Reid went out this evening in our places.

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January Monday, 25 1886

Billy and I worked in the woods this forenoon again. Cut down a large oak back of the ten-acre-field which was hollow and fit only for wood. Had Tony Jackson and his mother with the other members of the family to dinner. So I spent the afternoon visiting with them while Billy has been getting up wood The weather has been moderating all day and to night it is raining.

January Tuesday, 26 1886

Intended to have killed some pigs to day; but failed to get the help necessary. James Holcomb promised to help some time ago, We have been geting in some hay from the stack west of the barn part of the time. G.W. Lemon & wife were here to dinner and to spend the afternoon with us. Gave an order for some pear trees with the understanding that I was to earn part of the money helping deliver &c.

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January Wednesday, 27 1886

James Holcomb came to day and helped me kill four piggs. Got done by noon. Billy and I have been working in the woods this afternoon. There has been some appearance of a thaw to day rain has been falling moderately, Ma and I went down to Wilson Bookers this evening to visit them. Had a pleasant evening with {illegible}'s brother and his wife

January Thursday, 28 1886

I went out to Dover this forenoon with three piggs which we killed and dressed yesterday. Sold them at 6 1/4 cents per pound. One to Mr Barrett one to Mrs. Moody and one to Albert Ryerson. Had a visit from our old pastor and his lady Rev. D. Chalmers to day, Mrs Ross & Mifs Giles also. It was a great privelige to have this company again.

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January Friday, 29 1886

My boy and I worked in the woods this forenoon as usual and made some little addition to our stock of stovewood. The weather has been somewhat soft. Had a lot of visitors to dinner and tea. Two or three families altogather. Unckle Holmes, William Walls, and Alie Marr with their ladies besides some others. Intended to have gone to Pelham tomorrow but Janey was unwell.

January Saturday, 30 1886

Billy and I got some more wood cut this forenoon in the woods this forenoon. He has been working away at sundry jobs this afternoon. Ma and I went out to Dover this afternoon, mostly to visit Mrs. Lawson. Spent the evening there very pleasantly. Recieved a letter from Mrs. German and husband. Rev. Mr. J. W. German this evening. The former has been quite poorly, but is recovering slowly.

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January Sunday, 31 1886

I took ma and Bertha out to Dover this morning to church. Had an excellent sermon from our own minister. I remained in Dover until the evening service which was also proffitable. Took dinner at Frances Marr's with Bertha, to day. Found Thomas Jackson here on my arrival home ready to go to Pelham in the morning. The Good Lord is still a present help.

February Monday, 1 1886

Thomas Jackson and I started for Pelham this norning at about eight o'clock. Had a very pleasant drive down, the wind being on our backs and otherwise favourable. We called and took dinner with Mr. John Payrie a breeder of Durhams about three miles East of Cayuga. Was pleased to see his nice herd of cows. Got through all right to the end of our journey and are putting up at C. J. Cookes to night.

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February Tuesday, 2 1886

Have visited at Mr Cookes, at Mr. W. H Hortons and at Ms. N. C. Holcombs to day. Went down to Billy Holcombs towards night to see the father of the Holcombs who is ninety four years old. Found him quite well considering his great age. Spent the evening at Mr. Cookes mostly. This weather has been quite cold and blustery to day. Have concluded to put up for the night at Mr. Cookes.

February Wednesday, 3. 1886

The weather has been very stormy to day. So I have scarcely ventured away from Mr Cookes. Have been at Mr. C. Holcomb most of the time. The caller is very talkative although much affected by the condition of his wife, who is apparently a comfirmed lunatic, without even a hope of recovery. His farm buildings and stock are in a sad condition.

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February Thursday, 4 1886

Slept at Mr Cookes again last night. Visited with some people from Trafalger township last night at Mr. Hortons, a Mr. Hager and a Mifs Tierce. The latter is quite a medium. Went with them to St. Catherines to day. though very cold & stormy weather. Saw the friends off for the train. Came home again this evening to Mr N. C. Holcomb and settled up with the latter for a bag of seed wheat.

February Friday,5 1886

Thomas and I visited arround some to day and went down to Clifton towards night. Found our friend Mr. Skinner and Miss Kittie Skinner well and at home. Ida was away however. Have enjoyed our visit with them very much however, I think that Kittie is out of the sweetest girls I ever saw and her company is most desirable to me. More so then any other young lady.

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February Saturday, 6 1886

Thomas Jackson Mr. Skinner and I spent a good part of the time to day in visiting p{l}aces of most interest arround Clifton and the Falls of Niagara. Mr. Skinner and Kittie have been so kind to us in every way. that we could not help enjoying our visit with them I would have been pleased if Ida could have come home but have been disappointed so far. Attended prayer meeting with Kittie this evening

February Sunday, 7 1886

Mr. Skinner was quite unwell this morning so we had to go to church alone. The Rev. Mr. Cassady preached are excellent quarterly meeting discourse. One new feature of his service was that of the congregation and the minister each reading a verse about of the morning scripture lesson. Was very loath to leave my friend Kittie to day. Came back to Pelham however this evening.

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February Monday, 8 1886

Thomas and I intended starting home to day, from North Pelham to day, rather this morning. Gave it up however on account of the exceedingly high wind that has prevailed from South west all day. Visited my old friend {name illegible}this evening and had a very pleasant time with him. was sorry indeed to hear that his farm was likely to be taken from him by a chancery suit with his brother.

February Tuesday, 9 1886

Thomas Jackson and I started for home this morning at about eight o'clock. News The weather was somewhat warm and soft; but we got along very nicely. Arrived at Cayuga for dinner. Went after to visit the herd of Short horns owned by Mr. John P. Martin. Was well satisfied with our visit there. I had an offer of a bull that was quite satisfactory. Got home all right & found them all well.

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February Wednesday, 10 1886

Billy and I have finished geting in the stack of hay from the {illegible} of barn to day Mr Reed has helped us some. The weather has been very warm and the snow fast disappearing. Had to let billy help the Hay press men move their press from Writes to the Dogs Nest this afternoon Have been buisy as usual myself at sundry jobs .

FEBRUARY THURSDAY, 11 1886

Billy and I have been working out in the woods This afternoon I went down to {illegible} this morning and paid John B{?} five dollars on account of sawing . I went over to John H{illegible} this evening to make a visit. The thaw that began on Monday last still continues and {illegible} fair to take the snow all off

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FEBRUARY FRIDAY, 12 1886

Billy and I cut down an old pine tree {illegible} afternoon which had long been a sort of land mark. We have only one green pine left in the woods. We went out to Dover this afternoon and remained for the social this evening at the parsonage {illegible} Had a very {illegible} time with the friends A {line illegible}

FEBRUARY SATURDAY, 13 1886

It has been raining most of the time today . The snow has been going pretty fast as a consequence. Billy and I were able to out wood in the woods this afternoon however Got word from John M{illegible} that my offer of for a new bull was accepted. Will get him home before a great while.

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FEBRUARY SUNDAY, 14 1886

Ma and I went out to church. Nice morning as usual. It rained all day however so we did not come home after the morning service. Went to the sabbath school and afterwards to the evening service. The minister preached on popular {words illegible} had {illegible} Wills this evening. Have enjoyed the favour of our God this day also.

FEBRUARY MONDAY, 15 1886

Mr McFee came {illegible} to day and helped get out some timber for repairing the old house. We only worked this forenoon on account of the stormy weather. Snow has been falling to day & our prospect of sleighing is now good. I have been suffering {illegible} from of late and am now feeling badly at times

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FEBRUARY TUESDAY, 16 1886

Billy and I have been working away at cutting wood & geting our loggs for the mill to day. The weather has been very cold and blustery. {illegible} in keeping with the {illegible} Some snow has been falling lately, to the wheat & meadows. Had a letter from my old friend Rev H. P. C{illegible} this evening.

FEBRUARY WEDNESDAY, 17 1886

Billy and I have been working away in the woods to day as usual. Mr McPhee Came out this forenoon and has been helping most of the day. We have succeeded in geting the timber out for {illegible} with which to repair the old house, before {illegible} Have sent Mr Reed to {illegible} to day for with a grist of wheat and chop. The weather has been very cold and blustery.

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FEBRUARY THURSDAY, 18 1886

Mr McPhee has been working away at the little house to day. He has got it nearly ready to move at last. I went up to the regular monthly meeting this afternoon. Had quite a stormy time between Bro's Chrysler and Smith. Took tea at unckle John's on the way home. The weather is again quite mild.

FEBRUARY FRIDAY, 19 1889

We have had a sick cow lately; and to day she died. I went after the Cattle doctor this forenoon but the cow was dead when I got home again. Mr. McPhee helped us with the little house again to day. We have got it about ready for moveing at last. The weather has been very stormy to day. Snow has been falling moderately but continuously all day.

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FEBRUARY SATURDAY, 20 1886

Mr. McPhee has been helping us again to day. He and Billy got four big logs in to the mill this afternoon. Billy drew one this forenoon. We skined the cow this afternoon. The weather was very cold and blustery all day. The snow that fell last night and yesterday has made very good sleighing. It happens just right for our saw log drawing after all.

FEBRUARY SUNDAY, 21 1886

Took Ma out to Dover this morning to attend our annual Mifsionary Meeting. Our present minister has the place of wording the instead of the week day evening. A returned Mifsionary {illegible} officiated both morning and evening. Mr D. {illegible} who now lives at {illegible} Park, Niagara was exceedingly interesting and proffitable {illegible $175 illegible}

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FEBRUARY MONDAY, 22 1886

Mr McPhee came out to help us again this morning. He and Billie have got in eight or ten logs more to the mill. We have now got our necessary number in to the mill. Have had a visit from L{illegible} Kitchen & family with R{illegible} to day. Rreed has been helping me cut logs in the woods part of the time. Snow has been falling lately and sleighing is good.

FEBRUARY TUESDAY, 23 1886

Billy has been drawing loggs to the mill again to day as usual. Reed and I cut the logs ready for drawing this forenoon. This afternoon I have been visiting my friend Wellington Carpenter who has been here with his wife and Mrs Calvert. Enjoyed the company of my friends very much. Had a short letter from Kittie S. to day, containing very good news indeed.

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FEBRUARY WEDNESDAY, 24 1886

We have been working away at our saw-log drawing to day as usual. We have now well nigh done. I am very thankful to have this part of our work off our hands. The weather continues mild with frosty nights. Have enjoyed precious communion with the Divine & infinite of late. The cleansing efficacy of the blood of God's Son, still remains. Even the stain of sin is removed.

FEBRUARY THURSSDAY, 25 1886

Billy took some {illegible} loggs down to the mill this forenoon. This afternoon the thaw and rain have spoilt the roads. Ma and I went down to James Holcombs this evening to make them a short visit. The weather has changed from warm to be very cold and blustery in short notice. Snow has fallen, some this evening.

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FEBRUARY FRIDAY, 26 1886

My man and I have been cuting wood in the woods to day. We found the weather so very cold and windy that it seemed impossible to work anywhere else. Have been reading an article in Harpers about Persia this evening, which interested me much. It seems strange that such a difference can exist in the various {illegible} of the human race.

FEBRUARY SATURDAY, 27 1886

Billy and I cut wood in the woods this forenoon. This afternoon I have been out to Dover after some groceries &c. Have still to go out occasionally after some other things besides the mail Bro Senior came in to tea this evening. The weather is moderating somewhat although it is pretty cold yet.

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FEBRUARY SUNDAY, 28 1886

Ma and I went out to meeting in Dover this morning as usual. Had our own minister to preach to us. Came home after the morning service in order to let the other members of the family go in the evening. Have enjoyed reading a book given me by my friend, the late D.W. Whiting entitled Out of Darkness into light Have found some precious thoughts therein.

MARCH MONDAY, 1 1886

I started to do some collecting this forenoon notwithstanding the cold. Did not get any money however. This afternoon I have been cuting wood and Billie has been helping me. The weather has been very cold to day a {illegible} Mr Reed and Wife went up in Dreyton on a visit to day. Don't see how they could stand to ride so far.

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MARCH TUESDAY, 2 1886

Billy and I worked in the woods this forenoon again. He has been geting out manure and drawing up wood this afternoon. I went out to Dover after the mail for Reed he being away from home. The weather continues very cold with but little prospect of warmer weather as yet. The roads are excellent for waggons.

MARCH WEDNESDAY, 3 1886

Billy and I worked in the woods again to day. This afternoon however I have had visitors while Billy has been geting some loggs out ready to draw to the mill when snow comes. William Watts and Nellie came for an hour or so this afternoon. After they went away, Willie Smith and his wife came & took tea with us. Addie Marr was married this evening.

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MARCH THURSDAY, 4 1886

The weather has become quite moderate of late and still gets warmer. Have been helping Mr McPhee get a load of wood from John Marr's slashing this afternoon Billy has been drawing wood from our own woods. Was glad to hear that Reed had succeeded in geting Wilsons old store in Dover to move out to Victor This will be quite a help to our post office.

MARCH FRIDAY, 5 1886

We have been killing our piggs to day. Have been waiting for some time to do this on account of the cold weather James Holcomb helped us. The weather has been all that could be desired for our work. It has been thawing a good deal throughout the day but is freezing again to night The Lord is very precious to me of late.

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MARCH SATURDAY, 6 1886

Mr McPhee came out this morning and has been working at the little house geting it ready to move &c. I have been out to Dover with part of my piggs, that we killed yesterday. Sold all but one at 6 cts per pound, and that one at 5.75 Per hundred. The weather continues quite warm and the roads are becoming muddy. Had dinner at Mr Barretts.

MARCH SUNDAY, 7 1886

Took ma and Bertha out to Dover this morning. Attended service in our own church as usual, our own minister officiating. Remained in the village for the evening service, where Bro Senior preached Have been somewhat cast down to day and have not enjoyed myself religiously as I should like. "Why art thou cast down 'O' my soul, Why art thou diquieted within me &c

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MARCH MONDAY, 8 1886

Mr McPhee came out again this morning to help us move the old house. Tried it with two teems before dinner and failed So I got Mr Hom and James McBride to help us. Succeeded in geting it moved to its place at last or nearly for it is scarcely straightened around yet. Had Wattses to dinner. Am so thankful to have the old house moved.

MARCH TUESDAY, 9 1886

Mr McPhee has been helping at the old house again to day. He has now got it placed in position with a temporary underpining and the sleepers partly in place. I have been up to Simcoe to attend to some banking business. Got it done all right, and some other business attended to besides The roads have been fairly good and the weather seasonable.

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MARCH WEDNESDAY, 10 1886

Mr McPhee has been working away at the old house again to day. He has comenced to lay the floor of the old house again. Billy has been working at sundry jobs to day. I took ma out to Dover this afternoon. While there we took tea at Mr Wills and spent the evening very pleasantly. They are very nice people to visit. Saw our minister this evening also.

MARCH THURSDAY, 11 1886

Mr McPhee has been laying the floor in the old house to day. Billy and I went down to John Marrs woods this afternoon and got four sticks of timber to make sills of for the new house. The weather has been quite wind and unpleasant excepting that it has been bright Am enjoying a sacred nearness to God my Saviour of late. It is a constant joy to be permitted to love him.

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MARCH FRIDAY, 12 1886

I have been helping Mr McPhee cut wood down in the hemlocks for his own use to day. Billy finished geting home the timbers for sills this forenoon. this afternoon he has been drawing home wood from our own bush. The weather has been quite warm but snow and rain in moderate quantities have been falling about all day.

MARCH SATURDAY, 13 1886

Billy has been working at spliting and puting up some wood for his father this afternoon. The latter has continued to work at the old house as usual, to day. I went down to Cayuga this morning by train from Jarvis to purchase a bull. Bought one from Mr John R. Martin for fifty dollars, a nice red bull, with a pedigree of four crosses, two years old last January. Got home about three.

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MARCH SUNDAY, 14 1886

Ma and I have been out to meeting at Dover this forenoon. Remained at Bro. Calverts for dinner. Took him up to Woodhouse appointment. Remained for the evening service also. The funeral sermon of John Monroe was preached this morning. He was a son of our Bro Monroe and we have hope in his death. It has been a day of blessing to my soul. The Lord has been so good to me.

MARCH MONDAY, 15 1886

Billy took an oak log down to the mill this morning, there having been a slight fall of snow last night. It went off very suddenly this morning however. Billy and I went down to Jarvis after our Martin bull this afternoon. Got him home all right and feel quite well satisfied with the bull. All things considered he is just what we wanted.

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MARCH TUESDAY, 16 1886

Forgot to state last night that my Martin bull was two years old last January. Ma and I went up to Simcoe to do some trading The roads were very bad however. Brought home a caddy of tea containing some 22 lbs. Mr McPhee has been working away at the house as usual. Billy has been working at sundrys also. Had dinner at Florence's.

MARCH WEDNESDAY, 17 1886

Billy and I have been cuting and spliting some fence blocks in the back woods to day. Mr McPhee went out with his teem and Reed took out mine and brought a couple of loads of stuff belonging to his store. Mr McPhee worked part of the afternoon at the little house. He has got it about ready to move into at last. The weather continues quite warm and muddy.

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MARCH THURSDAY, 18 1886

Billy and I worked in the woods this forenoon at cuting and spliting fence blocks. Mr McPhee worked part of the time to day I think. This afternoon I went up to the Grange. The traveler of the group Wholesale supply was there so our regular monthly meeting did not come off Gave a few orders for our Summers suply of Groceries &c.

MARCH FRIDAY, 19 1886

Billy and I have been working away at cuting wood both this forenoon and afternoon. We are cuting up some old hemlock and pine tree tops in John Marrs slashing, for summer wood. Learned this evening that Carrie Wilson, Charlottes sister died at Port Hope this morning at four. Mr Reed started for Port Hope this evening. Carrie was often a guest of our house when young.

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MARCH SATURDAY, 20 1886

Billy and I worked at cuting wood in the hemlocks this forenoon. This afternoon I went down to the cheese factory to attend a meeting of patrons. Did not remain there long however. Went out to Dover afterwards where we had some business to attend to The weather was ver stormy and disagreeable.

MARCH SUNDAY, 21 1886

Did not go out to meeting this morning as we usually do. The roads being almost impassible was our principal reason I have been blessed in reading Out of Darkness into Light by Asa Mahan. It is a most precious exposition of a most precious subject. O how thankful I am for the exceeding great and precious promises.

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MARCH MONDAY, 22 1886

Billy and I went down to the hemlock this forenoon, to cut some more wood for sumer use. This afternoon it has been storming do as to be unfit for out of door work. Mr McPhee has been hewing some at the the sills for house & Billy has been helping I have been helping ma in the house some. The weather is very disagreeable and stormy of late.

MARCH TUESDAY, 23 1886

Billy and I went down to the woods again this forenoon. This afternoon he has been helping his father fix up the little house. They have got it about ready to go into now. I have continued to work at the hemlocks this afternoon. The weather has been very cold and windy. Fit only for working inside or in the woods.

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MARCH WEDNESDAY, 24 1886

Have been helping fix up the little house to day. Mr McPhee and Billie have both been helping me. Have got it about ready at last Mr McPhee brought out another {illegible} load of moveables this forenoon through the bad roads Frost is just going out now and the roads are probably at their worst. Windy weather prevails however and is drying up fast.

MARCH THURSDAY, 25 1886

Mr McPhee & Billie have been moving their effects out to day into the little house. I have been finishing my job of plastering this afternoon. This forenoon I worked at my bees. Find that we have lost one swarm out of three, and one of the remaining swarms is dwindling away I fear. The other one has wintered well though. The weather is still warm and fine.

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MARCH FRIDAY, 26 1886

Billy and I have been cuting wood in the hemlocks to day. We are geting a nice lot put up ready to draw. Mostly pine wood. Mr McPhee came into the little house with his family last night. I suppose they will find it rather small, but we hope to make it larger soon. Mr Reed has got out seven more loads of his store to day, from Port Dover.

MARCH SATURDAY, 27 1886

Billy and I have continued to work at cuting wood in the hemlocks to day. Settled up with him to night and owed him eleven dollars and thirty five cents on his four months work, in the Wintertime. Reed has been geting out two loads of stuff more to day. He has now got out five loads with my teem. Had Nora and Mabel here to dinner to day. The weather has been very cool and windy.

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MARCH SUNDAY, 28 1886

We did not go out to meeting this morning as we usualy do on account of the very bad state of the roads. Have spent the day entirely at home reading the precious word and some other works thereon. Mahan's A Out of darkness into light is a most precious exposition of the glorious Central doctrine of Holiness I am trying to walk in the Glorious light of God from day to day.

MARCH MONDAY, 29 1886

I have been sorting over apples this forenoon This afternoon went to a sale of Robert Blakies. Did not buy anything however. Buried our apples in the straw last Fall but unfortunately put to much Clover chaff on them and made them too warm. The result is they are about two thirds rotten. The weather is still moderate and somewhat rainy.

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MARCH TUESDAY, 30 1886

I have been working at cuting and spliting wood at the woodhouse to day. It has been raining moderately nearly all day, & yesterday also The rainy damp weather has come in good time for the wheat as it was doing badly before from frosty and dry weather. Am enabled to trust my all on Jesus. He cleanseth and makes my soul to rejoice.

MARCH WEDNESDAY, 31 1886

The rainy weather still continues Got ready to go to Jarvis this afternoon but owing to the showery weather Had to give it up. Have been working att at sundry jobs during the day Have been on the mountain top of late, and Jesus has been most precious. The joy of the Lord is my strength indeed. My soul rejoiceth greatly in the God of my Salvation.

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APRIL THURSDAY, 1 1886

The stormy weather that began on Monday last has not left us yet, but still rages to day it has been mostly wind. I went down to Jarvis this afternoon to do several errands Took three bushells of potatoes to L. Miller, also a small grist of chop to the mill. Being Brought home the Grange goods also. Found the roads terribly bad. Got home all right though.

APRIL FRIDAY, 2 1886

I have been engaged at sundry jobs to day The weather has continued to be windy with an occasional fall of snow. Saw by the Guardian of this week that our dear friend Mrs Rev J.W. Germain departed this life on Thursday last She died at her home in Harriston after an illness of some three weeks duration. Her's was an exceedingly triumphant death.

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APRIL SATURDAY, 3 1886

The roads in a dreadful state now. Ma and I went out to Dover this forenoon and got a good idea of the condition. Ma called at Wattses on our way home and had dinner. Did not get home until about night. Went over to Thomas Jacksons while at Wattses to see his cattle He is geting a good start in thoroughbreds and is takeing good care of them.

APRIL SUNDAY, 4 1886

Did not go out to meeting to day - the third Sunday that we have mifsed in succession. I went over to Mr Gradys church however both morning and evening. A stranger preached for him both morning and evening whose name was Buckley, an evangelical from the U.S. in Connection with the Adventists. Have been much proffited in reading Mahans Out of Darkness into Light to day.

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APRIL MONDAY, 5 1886

I went out to Dover with a grist of chop to day. It was pretty hard work for the teem I felt thankful when I got home again. Took dinner at Mr Barretts and had a very pleasant little visit with them. In fact I always enjoy going there so much, they are such nice folks. Divided up our two barrels of sugar with William Wattses this evening A cold strong East wind has been blowing all day.

APRIL TUESDAY, 6 1886

We have been having a tremendous snow storm to day and last night from the North East. I do not remember such a severe storm. A great quantity of snow has fallen, say a foot and a half of wet solid snow. We have been kept buisy throughout the day at shoveling snow and takeing care of stock. The Victor mail could not be carried on account of the storm.

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APRIL WEDNESDAY, 7 1886

Spent the forenoon in shoveling snow. This afternoon Mr McPhee and Billy have been helping get in some loggs to the mill. Got them sawed and partly home again. Felt sorry to see our last pine tree blown down by the gale of yesterday. Have been told that a general blockade of the railways has taken place on account of snow drifts.

APRIL THURSDAY, 8 1886

The snow is very unevenly divided on the ground, there being immense quantities in some places & not at all in others. We have got home some lumber to day and to a lot of logs drawn in at the mill besides. Billy has been helping of course & Mr McPhee also got up a load or so from the mill. The day has been delightful and the snow has been melting fast.

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APRIL FRIDAY, 9 1886

Mr McPhee and Billy brought home two loads each of lumber from the mill this forenoon. I have also been helping handle the lumber at the mill where we piled up all that was cut that we could not draw home. The weather has been warm and the roads bad. Was fortunate enough to sell my Deck horse this evening to Mr Forsyth, A Peakes Brotherinlaw for $ {stroked out} 120.00

APRIL SATURDAY, 10 1886

I went out to Dover with Mr McPhee this forenoon. Our own side-road to the Dogs Nest being blocked up with snow we had to go East to the old plank and from there to Dover or nearly eight miles to go four. The roads are very bad indeed. Brought home one of James Mann's seeders frpom the Wilson barn. Settled up some small claims also

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APRIL SUNDAY, 11 1886

On account of the almost impassible state of the roads we did not go to church to day again. Being the fourth Sunday in succession that we have not gone for the same reason. Went over to Mr Gradys church however and heard the stranger Rev Mr Buckley preach. The sermon was very good indeed Have enjoyed reading Out of Darkness into Light again to day.

APRIL MONDAY, 12 1886

It has been quite showery to day. The warm rain is helping to take off the snow nicely. The side roads are still impassible however Helped Billy some this forenoon about sowing cloverseed notwithstanding the rain. Got the field back of the barn all done. Have been working the new seed sower got from Wilson's barn. Have had some trouble with it though. Have been cuting wood this afternoon.

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APRIL TUESDAY, 13 1886

Mr. Reed having gone away yesterday to Port Hope it fell to my lot to carry the mail to day. The roads were very bad so I went out on foot. Took dinner at William Wattse's on the way, and walked down the railroad track. Visited the Canada Pacific car with samples of seed grain &c from the Northwest. Walked home with the Watt's girls who were also in Dover.

APRIL WEDNESDAY, 14 1886

The past hs been n exceedingly warm and beautiful day Snow banks are fast disappearing, and the side roads are once more passible. Went over to Mr William Herrings this afternoon to take some things to him for the Grange. Had Robert Nixon and Harvey Shand here this afternoon for the same purpose. Had a visit from Eva Marr and Mifs Aikins this evening.

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APRIL THURSDAY, 15 1886

I worked arround this forenoon at sundry jobs amongst other things made a gate. This afternoon I went up to the Grange . Disposed of all the Goods ramaining and got the money. Begin to feel as though I would like to get rid of the office of secretary. It brings with it a good deal of bother and quite a responsibility as well.

APRIL FRIDAY, 16 1886

Warm weather has come at last and there is every appearance of its continuance. I have been very buisy at sundry jobs mostly arround the house, cuting wood and such like. Am thankful that the mud is drying up so fast The snow is about all gone. Heard some things about Reed that make me feel a little discouraged as to his prospects.

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APRIL SATURDAY, 17 1886'

Billy and I laid over a piece of fence along the side road next to Challands this forenoon. This afternoon I went out to Dover with the Victor mail Took ma out also and left her there until after service to morrow. The weather has been exceedingly warm to day and seems to be geting warmer still. Called at Watts's on the way home to see about some business matters.

APRIL SUNDAY, 18 1886

I went out to Dover this morning to attend church Found the roads pretty bad in places, thoug much better than for a long time past. Bro. Calvert preached, on a passage that has long been an interesting one to me and yet, I never heard it preached from before - about Jabes & hgis prayer to God &c Came home and went out again this this evening to hear the Boot black mater J.B. Clarke

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APRIL MONDAY, 19 1886

Was as buisy as ever this forenoon at sundry jobs. This afternoon I worked with the teem on the field next to Challands this afternoon. Mr McPhee and Billy not being home yet having gone away yesterday. Found the ground quite fit to work. Have enjoyed a discourse and more than that of last night in our church by J.B.Clarke. He claims relationship to Dr Addam Clarke.

APRIL TUESDAY, 20 1886

I went up to Simcoe this forenoon, partly to attend the Division Grange meetings The latter was not a success owing to a lack of attendance. Had my dinner at George Lemon, and a nice visit with them. Did a lot of other business besides, & came home in the dark. The roads are improving very fast having come almost entirely dry.

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APRIL WEDNESDAY, 21 1886'

I have been enjoyed at a great many different jobs to day. Put away the hams and shoulders this forenoon. This afternoon comenced taking a pit of potatoes but did not succeed in finishing as Mr McKnights man came for ome seed oats and I have since been helping him to clean them up. The weather continues quite warm and dry.

APRIL THURSDAY, 22 1886

I have been working away at sundry jobs this forenoon as usual. This afternoon I went out to Dover on some business of my own. Carried the mail for Mr Reid also, he being buisy at his house. Bought six thousand shingles of T.L. Gillies to put on the new house and paid five dollars thereon. Price, one dollar & ninety cents per thousand. The weather is still remarkably warm.

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APRIL FRIDAY, 23 1886

McPhees finished sowing the field next to Challands with oats to day. The have also comenced working in the front field where we intend to sow barley. The ground works rather hard this year owing I think to the last heavy snow storm followed by very warm dry weather Have been working in the garden to day geting ground ready to plant strawberries &c.

APRIL SATURDAY, 24 1886

Worked at sorting some potatoes this forenoon This afternoon went out to Dover to send away some money for the Grange mostly. Brought Took Mr Reids mail out and back also. The weather has changed at last and become quite cool. An occasional shower has fallen throughout the day. McPhees have been able to plough this afternoon however Sold a young calf to Alexander Millie for three dollars this evening.

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APRIL SUNDAY, 25 1886

Took ma out to church this morning. Had an excellent Easter sermon from our Bro Calvert. Had dinner at William Watt's on the way home, to do chores. Went out again this evening. Had an unusual service, adapted to Easter. It was composed in great-part of singing, and was a great success. The church was crowded with people.

APRIL MONDAY, 26 1886

The cool weather of yesterday has brought us another fall of rain a thunder storm this time, and more moderate temperature. I have been buisy at a great many jobs to day. Succeeded in cleaning out the black rust from our cherry and plum trees this afternoon. Do not see as they have increased although it is some years since we began fighting it.

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APRIL TUESDAY, 27 1886

I went out to Dover this afternoon, partly to take the mail for Reid; but mostly to see after some other matters. Mr McPhee and Billy went to mill for me and for themselves to day. They had quite a time geting both out and in our own lane. James Holcomb and wife were here this evening after trees cherry and plum, or sprouts rather.

APRIL WEDNESDAY, 28 1886

Set out Strawberry plants this forenoon besides seting out some raspberry-berry bushes that I got at Mr Barrells yesterday. This afternoon however I have been delivering notices for my friend G. W. Lemon Did not get started until nearly three o'clock , but got as far as Nanticoke and drove a good many miles to get there. Stay over night to night at Mr Isaac Prattons. They are such good Methodist people.

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APRIL THURSDAY, 29 1886

Started from Mr Prattons in good time this morning. Was much interested in the country though which I passed especially along the lake shore. Got as far west as Wilson Porters for dinner. Put in the afternoon as faithfully as possible and brought up at W.J. Carpenters where I am staying over night. Have taken a good deal of pleasure in traveling through the country to day.

APRIL FRIDAY, 30 1886

Found it raining this morning when I got up, and I had still a number of notices to take arround nearly all in the village however Started iin the beating East storm and finaly completed the task. Went afterwards to the barn where the delivery was being made and got the approval of my friend. Brought home the trees this evening when the rain ceased Found things all right.

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MAY SATURDAY, 1 1886

I have been nearly all day seting out pear trees and fixing an asparagus bed. Set out my first Niagara grape vines also. Put out twenty four pear trees in all mostly in the back yard. The ground is about filled up with trees. Mrs Reid came home this afternoon, from Port Hope, where she has been visiting here father and mother for some weeks.

MAY SUNDAY, 2 1886

Ma and I went out to the Quarterly meeting to day. Our church in Port Dover was crowded, almost. The largest turnout that I remember for years. Had a very good time. The Lord being with us. Took dinner with Mifs Giles before comeing home. A shower of rain caught us on the way home, but we drove into Unckle Joe McFalls for an or so or till the rain was over.

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MAY MONDAY, 3 1886

I have been very buisy to day seting out or rather planting garden seeds such as onion beats &c. Mr Reid has been helping part of the time. Mr McFees have got started sowing the front field to barley. Drilled in the Mansury barley next to the road. Mr Reed is makeing some progress with his store now - a couple of men being at work on it most of the time.

MAY TUESDAY, 4 1886

Have been working in th garden again to day as usual. Set out a number of Gregg and Tyler Black Cap {illegible] berry plants. Grown from our own stock. Have found these to be the most valuable of our raspberries in every aspect. Mr McFee finished sowing the front field to day, just in time for a shower of rain, which was falling to night.

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MAY WEDNESDAY, 5 1886

Ma and I went down to Jarvis to day to take some eggs and to do some tradeing. We took dinner and {illegible} at Rev. D. Chalmers our old pastor The last since it may be for some time as he is to leave Jarvis this Spring for another circuit his time being up. Had a very pleasant visit with these kind friends. The roads were exceedingly bad both going and comeing.

MAY THURSDAY, 6 1886

Worked away this forenoon at my various jobs as usual This afternoon however I went out to Dover to attend our May Quarterly business meeting. Had a searching time in some respects especialy about the characters of various members. Am fearful that a deficiency will have to be reported for the past years ministers salary. Shall be sorry indeed to see this.

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MAY FRIDAY, 7 1886

I have been engaged arround the house, triming trees and burning brush with other jobs too numerous to mention. Mr McPhee and Billy have been sowing oats on the Big Flat to day. The weather has been quite cool with a strong East wind blowing with some appearance of a storm. Our Victor store is progressing nicely. Hope to see it open by and bye.

MAY SATURDAY, 8 1886

I have continued to work away at our back yard geting it cleared up and the brush burned. This afternoon went out to Dover with a ge the Mail for Mr Reid he being engaged at raising his building for the store and post office. Mrs Carpenter was here this afternoon and got a bushell of Dakotah Red Potatoes for Well. Had a visit fom Mrs Alexander Marr also.

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MAY SUNDAY, 9 1886

We did not go out to church this morning, but went out this evening instead. An excellent discourse was delivered by the Rev Mr Williamson from Norwich Subject - "The prayer of the writeous Man availeth much". Some good points were made. One in particular I remember; viz. of the encouragement we should recieve from the fact that one man alone is mentioned.

MAY MONDAY, 10 1886

The most of the time to day rain has been falling. It ceased about the middle of the afternoon however, just in time for ma and I to go out to our Aniversary Tea Meeting which came off this evening . The attendance was very good considering the state of the roads & weather. Tea was served in the Skating Rink and the concert held in the Dover Hall

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MAY TUESDAY, 11 1886

Billy and I have been geting the loggs on the rollway at the mill to day. Got the last of them all on this afternoon. Also a couple of loads more drawn home The rain yesterday has cleared off warm again as all the presceeding have done this Spring. As a consequence all manner of vegetation is very forward considering the time of year.

MAY WEDNESDAY, 12 1886

Billy and I got up the ballance of the hay from the little barn in the woods or Ten acre field. I have since been geting lumber piled up at the mill. Brought home a couple of loads. The weather has been very fine to day & quite warm. Our sorrel mare five years old, foaled last night and did well. Her colt is quite smart, and required no attention. Billy & Mr McFee are still ploughing corn ground.

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MAY THURSDAY, 13 1886

Have been engaged this forenoon much as usual at Sundry jobs This afternoon I went up to the Grange Hall, it being the time of our regular Monthly Grange meeting. There was no one there however so I went down to Mr Wm P{illegible} near Nanticoke after a fountain pump for spraying our plum trees. Got one for seventy five cents. Called at Shands on the way down.

MAY FRIDAY, 14 1886

Worked this forenoon at geting ready to go to mill with a grist of wheat and chop this afternoon. Took it to Rose's mill as I intended. Drove on to Simcoe and got a hundred two inch drain tiles for a cellar drain paid eighty cents per hundred. Was fortunate in geting home to night just in time to escape a good watering Rain is again falling plentifuly.

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MAY SATURDAY, 15 1886

A very heavy rain fell last night and quite a freshet to day. George Lemon stayed with us last night and I gave him another order for pear trees, he promising to give me the job of distributing his not notices next Spring as pay. Went out to Dover this afternoon with Mr Reed's mail. Had some business of my own however.

MAY SUNDAY, 16 1886

Did not go to meeting this morning ourselves, but stayed at home and in order to let Reid and his wife to instead. Took ma out this evening, and had a very good meeting. Have been much blessed in reading "Out of Darkenss into Light", to day The write takes of the truths of God and shews them to us so plainly. The word becomes more and more precious from day to day.

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MAY MONDAY, 17 1886

Turned out our cattle to day for the first this Spring Am pasturing the field next to McBrides where we want to get a crop of seed afterwards. Grass has become quite large for this season of the year. Fruit trees have bloomed and the blossoms mostly fallen. Never saw a greater prospect for fruit than at present Wheat is making a very poor show however.

MAY TUESDAY, 18 1886

Have been engaged much as usual to day. Went down to C.J. Buck to see about geting some stone, also to Watts's. The rains have prevented the raising of stone so far. Am rejoicing greatly in my God these days. He has become my strength and song, and His great salvation exceedingly precious. I do want to glorify Him in every possible way.

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MAY WEDNESDAY, 19 1886

Have been working arround the house at sundry jobs and in the garden to day. Went up to Unckle John Matthews to dinner, ma being there at a quilting. The weather continues fine and McPhees are improving it in geting the corn ground ready. The continued wet weather has made the ground work hard and unfavourably for corn

MAY THURSDAY, 20 1886

Mr McPhees have been geting the big field ready for planting corn to day. They have also drilled in some peas in the same field. Spent the forenoon in fixing the fence across the creek to keep cattle out of the wheat. This afternoon have been working in the garden. Am very thankful to an fine dry weather came at last. Seeding can now be completed though late.

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MAY FRIDAY, 21 1886

I have been working with the teem geting the remaining portion of our garden ploughed, harrowed and marked with the plough one way for potatoes & corn. Got it all done to night except marking the other way. Mr Reid has been helping. Billy has been planting corn in the south end of the big field. The weather continues very fine. House cleaning is in progress with us.

MAY SATURDAY, 22 1886

Mr McPhee and Billy finished planting he potato corn to day, in the Northern part of the North East corner field. I have been working away at sundry jobs to day. Planted quite a few potatoes this evening in the garden. Sarah Walch went to Mr Brock this evening to spend a day or so or over Queens Birthday. Mrs Reid drove her down

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MAY SUNDAY, 23 1886

Took Ma and Bertha out to church this morning. Had a very good sermon from Mr Tronal who is just home from college. He seems to be a very good young man and promises to be very useful. I have not been feeling very well of late and from this reason partly I have not enjoyed the services of the sanctuary as I should. But the joy of the Lord is my strength

MAY MONDAY, 24 1886

Have been planting potatoes in the Garden to day. Had Emma Watts and Mifs Gussie Wells of Sarnia to dinner with us and was prevailed upon to drive them down to Jarvis this evening. Went to the race course for a little while and saw some horses trot. Never saw such a thing done in my life before & don't want to again. The weather has become quite cool.

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MAY TUESDAY, 25 1886

Worked at cuting wood part of the forenoon Went up to Simcoe this afternoon to see about certain matters. Took some seed corn back the Canning factory, and got credit for it. Had tea at Florences and saw Mifs Alice Bell there - a young lady of whom I have often heard but never seen. Had a cold ride home the weather haveing become quite Winter like.

MAY WEDNESDAY, 26 1886

Our girl came back from her Qeen's Birthday expedition this morning. I have been doing errends to day nearly the whole time. Saw John Marr first. Went from there to the cheese factory, then to W. Watts and from there to B{illegible} and finaly to George Ryerse. Went out to Dover this evening after a plough Share for one of our Copp ploughs

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MAY THURSDAY, 27 1886

Worked away at my different jobs this forenoon as usual. Went out to Dover this afternoon, partly to take Reids mail, but mostly to attend the adjourned Quarterly meeting in the church. Am sorry that a deficiency has occurred in our ministers salary, from the Woodhouse appointment. Got along amicably with our meeting excepting about the deficiency The weather is quite cool to night.

MAY FRIDAY, 28 1886

Ma and I went up to Unckle Holmes Matthews to day to attend a birthday dinner. It being Unckle Holme's Seventy eighth birthday. Had a very pleasant time visiting the friends there. About sixty were present Nearly all old or middle aged people. Came home by Dover where we stopped to get some necessaries The cool weather is slowly but surely passing off without frost.

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MAY SATURDAY, 29 1886

Mr McPhee have been sowing peas in the field north of Drive barn to day. I have been out to Dover a couple of times this forenoon after a load of brick Am geting the latter from an old cellar built by G Wilson a good many years ago. Intend to put them into a well for McPhees The weather is becoming quite warm.

MAY SUNDAY, 30 1886

Ma Bertha & I went out to meeting this morning. Our Bro Calvert preached a very excellent sermon on Hast Thou hast been so long time with me and not known me Philip"? We remained to the Sabbath School and evening preaching. Took our dinner at Mr Stringers & had my tea at Mr Wells. Sympathize deeply with Bro Well, on account of trouble in his family from lying woman

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MAY MONDAY, 31 1886

Went out to Dover after another load of brick to day. Intend making a well with them for Mr McPhees. Had a short visit from William Wattse's this evening. Let him have about three pecks of my pride of the north corn for seed. He agreeing to save seed for me again, this Fall Have been very happy in God my Saviour the past day. O what a privilege to be His {illegible}

JUNE TUESDAY, 1 1886

Got up a couple of loads of lime stone this forenoon to put in Mr McPhees cellar. Went out this afternoon to get another load of brick This load makes about sixteen hundred altogether Mr McPhees have finished sowing peas to day on the field by Drive barn My experience is quite varied but, the joy of the Lord is my strength He has been very gracious to me of late.

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JUNE WEDNESDAY, 2 1886

Drew a couple more loads of stone from B{illegible} this forenoon, also this afternoon when Billy has been helping. A shower of rain fell about four o'clock which prevented us from geting the ballance remaining of the two and a quarter home. Had quite a time geting on two last loads on account of the slippery roads The Lord Lord is my Shepherd.

JUNE THURSDAY, 3 1886

Billy and I got ab a load of stone each from Bink Quarry this morning. Have brought two cords and quarter home altogether. Got to work at digging the cellar afterwards which we are doing mostly with the plough and scraper. We find it a very rapid way of making excavations when compared with the spade and wheel barrow. More than twice as fast I am sure.

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JUNE FRIDAY, 4 1886

We finished our cellar this afternoon after about one day and a halfs work. Got it nearly ready for the stone work. It is 12 by 18 ft in size, and nearly seven feet in depth. Took my four barrow piggs down to the factory this evening. There were two black, one spotted and one white one. Did not mark them as I should have done, but must trust to memory.

JUNE SATURDAY, 5 1886

Got to work at laying the wall of Mr. McPhees cellar to day. Have made some progress although somewhat slow. We made a ditch underneath the cellar wall some six inches lower than the floor, and filled with round hard-heads in order to furnish drainage. Am building lime stone on that. Ross took away my two steers to day. They have been fed for eight or nine months & are fine fellows.

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JUNE SUNDAY, 6 1886

Did not go out to church ourselves this morning, but went this evening instead and got Mr and Mrs Reid out or in our places for the morning service. Have been greatly blessed in my reading and meditations during the past day. The Saviour was never more precious than of late and presence and kindly interest in my wellfare never more real. Heard Bro Daniel Wooley preach to night.

JUNE MONDAY, 7 1886

Had a short visit from my old friend and brother Mr. John Mencke of Nanticoke this morning. William Watts came also after some peas Let him have six bushells for which he paid me 55 cts. per Bu. Washed our twelve sheep after dinner. Had some time to work at our cellar wall. Mr and Mrs Clarke came this evening and took tea with us however.

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JUNE TUESDAY, 8 1886

Have been work away at the McPhee Cellar again to day Billy and Eddie have been helping as usual. Have got about half done with the cellar wall Mr McPhee has been geting the frame ready to put together. Prospects of rain have passed away and we seem likely to have a drought. Am exceedingly happy in the Saviours love these days He is a perfect Saviour to me.

JUNE WEDNESDAY, 9 1886

We have all been away working on the road to day doing Statute labour. Have put in seven days the first day, out of eighteen altogether This is the largest amt. of road work that we have ever had in my remembrance. The day has been beautiful and cool for work, although quite dry. Feel sometimes that some roots of bitterness remain in my heart Am seeking their entire removal at the hands of my God Amen.

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JUNE THURSDAY, 10 1886

Worked on the roads again to day, all of us, finished up my own share of fourteen days to night. I have been holding the plough myself all day. Some of the ground was very hard . The time is exceedingly well occupied these days. Scarcely have time to think of anything but work. God's grace is sufficient to keep his own however & I will rejoice and be glad all my days.

JUNE FRIDAY, 11 1886

Billy and Eddie finished up the ballance of our roadwork to day. Had eighteen days including theirs. I went up to Simcoe, partly to take a grist of chop to the mill. Had another matter to look after at the Bank also. Came home without dinner and felt all right for a wonder. It usualy makes me sick made some purchases for the McPhee house of nails &c. Got a Milk bowl also.

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JUNE SATURDAY, 12 1886

Billy and I worked at fixing fences this forenoon and this afternoon I went out to Dover with Reid's mail and to see after some matters of business of my own. Found that my two steers had weighed 418 & 419 lbs, Respectively, for which allowed me seven cents all arround the whole amounting to $ 58.09 cents or about 30$ each. Fixed more fence this evening.

JUNE SUNDAY, 13 1886

Went out to church this morning as usual. Took ma Bertha and Sarah with me. Bro. Calvert, who returned from conference during the past week was with us and has evidently recieved much inspiration from the Conference meetings. His sermon was about What think ye of Christ and contained many proffitable thoughts and suggestions Stopped to class & had good time Praise God.

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JUNE MONDAY, 14 1886

Have had Robert Austin digging a well at McPhees house to day. He is a great well digger apparently as he has got thirteen or fourteen feet done to night. Mr McPhee has been working away at his house as usual. He has got started puting up rafters this evening. Billy has got started cuting the pasture field next to McBrides for seed.

JUNE TUESDAY, 15 1886

Robert Austin finished digging the well this this afternoon. Went down twenty four feet altogether. He has also got the well bricked up all but eleven feet from the surface. I think that the prospect is good for a fare supply of water which once it gets started or filled up. Took the mail out for Reid this afternoon. He being away yet from home.

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JUNE WEDNESDAY, 16 1886

A rain prevented my going out to Dover after a load of brick to day. But the time has been as proffitably spent as possible I hope at sundry jobs. The season continues remarkable for abundance of rain and fine growing weather. Crops of all kinds are doing nicely and hay particularly is going to be very heavy.

JUNE THURSDAY, 17 1886

Had quite a rain this morning, so we did not do a great deal except planing some boards for Mr McPhees house Ma and I went out to Dover this afternoon. Got the load of brick and sent Mr. Reid home with them while ma and I stayed to the Strawberry festival in Spains Pavillion. Made something over fifty dollars I Served as collector at the gate during the evening.

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JUNE FRIDAY, 18 1886

Robert Austin came this morning and finished up the well at McPhees. Got it done in good style. Took a load of siding up to Simcoe for the planing mill Brought it home again this evening. Found the roads rather heavy from the rain of yesterday. Got back by sun down however. The Good Lord has continued to manifest Himself to my soul.

JUNE SATURDAY, 19 1886

I have been extremely buisy to day. Worked at McPhees cellar drain this forenoon. This afternoon I continued shearing sheep. Got five done after four or five o'clock. The weather is quite cool again since the last storm on Thursday. Forgot to say that the latter took one new house off from the foundation and laid it ten feet or more away. But little damage was done to the material however.

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JUNE SUNDAY, 20 1886

Ma and I went out to Dover to meeting this morning. Our brother Calvert gave us a very interesting discourse. Had an old fashioned Class meeting afterwards. Do not like them as well as the fellowship meetings where the three classes are met in same room at the same time. We remained to Sunday-school and evening preaching. Enjoyed the day very much.

JUNE MONDAY, 21 1886

Ma and I went out to Dover on the invitation of G.W. Lemon to a picnic. Only six were in attendance, consisting of Mr Lemons family & Ma & I Mr Spains Erie Park is a very pleasant place for a pic-nic. The Pavillion is splendid and has a fine view of the lake & harbour The grounds must become a popular place of resort to all the country arround, as well as contiguous cities.

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JUNE TUESDAY, 22 1886

Have been engaged at sundry jobs to day Worked part of the time at the McPhee cellar drains, which by the way is geting pretty well done. The boys have been cultivating corn. The weather is rainy, nearly all the time Things are growing finely and prospects are good for all crops except wheat which can scarcely recover the Winter killing.

JUNE WEDNESDAY, 23 1886

Mr. Reid took me down to the railway this morning and I went out the Presbyterian excursion to the Falls. Got down by a few minutes past nine o'clock, and so had nearly all the day at The Falls. Went at once to Mr Skinners mostly to see my dear friend Nettie. Of course we were glad to see each other or at least, so we both said. Had a pleasant visit with her & others.

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JUNE THURSDAY, 24 1886

Have been working at the McPhee cellar drain again to day. Am thankful to say that the drain is at last well nigh done, or rather dug. Had a visit from three young lady friends Mifs Lacys and the two Mifs Riddells to day. Mr Dr{illegible} the Grange traveller was also here. Went to the Hall to night to give a fiew orders &c

JUNE FRIDAY, 25 1886

Worked away at the drain to day again Intended to have gone up to Simcoe this afternoon to a mass meeting where Mr Blake is one of the speakers. Did not go down believing that it would be much better to stay at home and sheer sheep. Had quite a fall of rain this afternoon but having got the sheep up before could work away at them. Only have twelve this year.

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JUNE SATURDAY, 26 1886

I have been working away at the McPhee cellar drain again to day as usual. Got the tile laid and the ditch partly filled in . It has been a long hard job and I am very thankful to have it so near done. Billy has been cuting grass in the new ground field this afternoon. Mr McPhee is geting along nicely with the house. It is nearly ready to shingle again.

JUNE SUNDAY, 27 1886

We did not go out to meeting this morning as usual but let Mr & Mrs Reid go in our places. We went out this evening however, and had a good discourse from our brother. Did not enjoy it as much as at some other times however. Have felt so dull and stupid from the effect of the weather and hard work through the week.

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JUNE MONDAY, 28 1886

Have been helping Mr McPhee most of the time to day, at he shingling his house. Billy has got the New ground field of grass about cut. Ma and I went out to Dover this evening to attend a lecture of John B Clarkes on "Hits and Mifses" It was a great treat although I was hindered some from enjoying it by tending the door. Mr Clarke is a descendent of Dr Addam Clarke.

JUNE TUESDAY, 29 1886

Have been engaged at sundry jobs this forenoon. Most of the time however have been helping Mr McPhee shingle on his house. Have got it about done. Went up to Simcoe this afternoon to see about Seniors note at Harry Groffs. Found that Senior had not been there to look after it, much less paid it. It was due to day. Last day. Gave my note at four months So much for going security

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JUNE WEDNESDAY, 30 1886

I went up to Simcoe to day with a load of flooring for Mrs Steinhofs, planing mill. Took some other boards also for siding. Brought back a load of siding for Reid and left at his store. Forgot to say that I took four hundred feet of flooring to Steinhoffs. Had our Victor Strawberry festival this evening. Had a very nice time over two hundred present. Proceeds to towards building a side walk.

JULY THURSDAY, 1 1886

I have been working in the garden to day with all my strength Find it up hill work. The weeds having been allowed to get a good start. It has been quite warm & the weather has the appearance of a dry spell. McPhees have jobs in the new ground field of hay. They have put it all in the drive-barn. Eleven loads from the seven acres I believe of very fine hay.

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JULY FRIDAY, 2 1886

Went up to Simcoe again to day to take up another load of flooring for the plainer. Had some five hundred and six or seven feet on this load Brought home a load of doors, door frames and window sash &c. It seems to take so much work teeming &c for building. Am thankful that the end seems to be drawing near.

JULY SATURDAY, 3 1886

Worked in the garden at hoeing potatoes &c this forenoon. Went down to Jacksons to help them about geting in some hay. Got in three or four loads & put a lot up in cock after tea. Was surprised to see Mr & Mrs David Horton & Mr N.C Holcomb there when I went down. They came from Pelham last night. Thomas is quite weak & unable to work.

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JULY SUNDAY, 4 1886

Ma and I went out to church this morning as usual. It happened to be what our minister calls children's day and the sermon was mostly to the children. The text was father Had Mr David Horton & wife with Mr N.C. Holcomb to see us this evening The latter took tea with us. They leave for Pelham again in the morning. Visitors on Sunday are not my delight, But to Worship my God in the Sanctuary of His Holiness.

JULY MONDAY, 5 1886

Have continued to work away in the garden to day as usual. It seems to take a great deal of work to take keep the potato patch and the garden clean. Mr Reid has been helping me. Ma and Mrs Reid have been to Simcoe on a trading excursion. Mr McPhees have been geting in hay from the orchard. The weather is extremely warm & dry, with no appearance of rain.

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JULY TUESDAY, 6 1886

Have been working away at hoeing potatoes as usual. Do not seem to make very much progress though. The weather is very warm & the thermometer in the nineties, most of the time. Had some young lady visitors this evening but do not have time to spend on the young ladies even. Hope to find more time some time soon however, ro until I get my wife.

JULY WEDNESDAY, 7 1886

The weather has continued as warm as yesterday, in fact it has seemed even warmer for work. Have been working in the garden most of the time as usual. Had a visit from Francis Marr who came aftr Daisy Gutcher. The latter is going to Rosse's for a while. Mrs Ross wants to keep Daisy as her own and offers to do well by her.

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JULY THURSDAY, 8 1886

According to invitation I went out to Dover to day to go with the fishing party to Long Point cottages by Mr {illegible} Aldersons steamer. There were twelve in the company, all of whom I was acquainted with. Got to the cottages all right having been sea sick by the way Fell in with a Mr Lucas of Hamilton who took me in for the night and was very kind to me Did not catch any fish to night.

JULY FRIDAY, 9 1886

Had a good time to day with my friends at the point. Did not catch many fish as they did not seem to bite very well. It was interesting to me though going about in the boats and viewing the place generally. It is a strange place for cottages. There is quite a number of them all built on piles right in the water, no land to be seen for miles. Had a spell of sea-sickness comeing home again Took dinner at Mr Barretts. Mrs Reid came there for me.

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JULY SATURDAY, 10 1886

Got through my potates with the hoe for the first time or rather finished them for I comenced some time ago. Had a mess of Long point finish fish for dinner to day. It was quite a treat to all of us. Had a letter from my sister yesterday telling of a serious drought at Dresden & vicinity No rain has fallen there for seven weeks & crops have suffered very much.

JULY SUNDAY, 11 1886

Took Ma and Bertha out to church this morning as usual. After the morning service we went home with W.J. Carpenter and remained until evening meeting Bro Calvert did very well and our meetings were all interesting. Wished myself home this afternoon, though for I wanted to read some. Still our work now through the week is so ardent that the Sabbath finds us pretty well worked out.

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JULY MONDAY, 12 1886

I went down to Jarvis this forenoon to get some binding twine & some Grange Goods. Failed to get as much twine as I had ordered of Johny McBride but only twenty eight pounds instead of one hundred. Have been cuting thistles this afternoon and working some at Mr McPhees cellar drain. The dry weather still continues without much prospect of rain.

JULY TUESDAY, 13 1886

Have to helped Ma pick cherries Did our her for {illegible} Have been cuting thistles the remainder of the time. A beautiful rain is falling to night just in time to help the various remaining crops The ground was geting quite dry There has been no rain for about three weeks The folks arround have got about done with their haying & wheat is about ripe.

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JULY WEDNESDAY, 14 1886

On account of rain this morning and last night our arrangements have been somewhat changed. It Intended to have gone to Simcoe with a load of Lumber and to get some necessary materials for building. Mr McPhee has been geting the window frames filled ready to put in. Ma and I went out to Dover this afternoon to see about some matters of business Came home Tills Wattses & Mrs Clarke

JULY THURSDAY, 15 1886

Have been working arround to day at sundry jobs, almost too numerous to mention. Went up to the Grange Hall this evening however and took William Misener and Mr Shieltz. Got all straightened up with them, also the others ready to send away. Found the roads quite muddy; but things are growing finely.

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JULY FRIDAY, 16 1886

I went down to the saw-mill this morning after some flooring which I took to Simcoe this afternoon and had about three hundred feet. Bought some flooring to make up the deficiency and also a lot of hardware such as glass lock nails Tarred Felting besides a number of other things necessary in building a house. Am thankful to have the house well along now.

JULY SATURDAY, 17 1886

Helped Mr McPhee finish up laying his flooring to day. Got started puting in the glass and Windows. Had Mr and Mrs John Gilbert with unckle John & aunt Lydia Matthews to visit us this afternoon. Had a pleasant and proffitable conversation on various religious subjects. Have remembered again that the steps of a good man are ordered of the Lord; & He shall shew them His Covenant.

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JULY SUNDAY, 18 1886

Went out to meeting this evening instead of in the morning Called to see Thomas Jackson on the way; also to see Mifs Mrs McPherson who is also quite poorly. Had a short but proffitable conversation and prayer with the latter. Proffitable to myself at least Some remarks were made to night about the late Albert Ryerson who drowned himself in Lake Erie a short time ago while under the influence of liquor.

JULY MONDAY, 19 1886

Have been helping Mr McPhee at the house most of the time to day. Have got the flooring all down and I am now helping to ceil up windows with inch boards. Sold some piggs to Mr Ross and delivered them to his man to day. Price 1.25 each sold some piggs at the factory to Mr George Vale this evening also at 4.75 per Hundred pounds to be delivered at Jarvis on Wednesday.

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JULY TUESDAY, 20 1886

Have been buisy nearly all day puting Paris Green on the potatoes. Got done in time to go down to the Cheese Factory after my four hoggs sold to Mr George Vale last evening. Had the mifsfortune to be too late in geting our piggs out of the pen. On account of the darkness we left two there Got the ballance over to Yeagers after a good deal of trouble in the darkness.

JULY WEDNESDAY, 21 1886

Got up by daylight this morning and went down to the factory after the two piggs left last night. Took them over to Yeagers, but after all it was so late when we got ready to load up our hoggs that we gave it up as we thought the train would be gone from Jarvis and we would have to bring them back anyway. So drove the hoggs back to the factory. Found in Jarvis that Vale had waited for our hoggs Sorry

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JULY THURSDAY, 22 1886

Have been geting the Binder and cradle fixed up ready for wheat harvest. Cut arround the field back of the barn this evening. Found it mostly too green to cut The crop is very uneven both as to ripening and to crop. There are many places that were winterkilled entirely and nothing but tymothy & clover remain. The grass seed sown in both spring and fall have taken finely.

JULY FRIDAY, 23 1886

Have been cuting arround the Big Flat most of the time to day. Cultivated the potatoes for the last time this forenoon however. Wheat on the Flat is a fare crop excepting on the lower side where it is badly Winter killed. The Lord is very precious to me these days The seems to be a mutual regard existing between us O what a precious truth.

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JULY SATURDAY, 24 1886

I have continued to work at cradling and binding arround the wheat fields Finished the field west of the woods which is the last one. Hope to comence work with the binder on Monday next D.V. Billy has just finished cuting or rather ploughing the ten-acre field for wheat. Thy {illegible} do {illegible} vain thoughts do I hate. My soul doth delight itself with the Goodness of thy House.

JULY SUNDAY, 25 1886

Have not gone to church to day as we usualy do The almost incessant toil of the weak seems to almost unfit us for public worship, especialy when the weather is hot like it is at present. Have enjoyed the privilege of rest and of reading afforded by the holy day. Am just finishing up Mahans, Out of Darkness into light. by for the first time. Have been much benefited in the reading of it.

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JULY MONDAY, 26 1886

It took me all the forenoon to get the Binder ready for work. It was showery however and even this afternoon it has scarcely ceased. Got some wheat out however & the machine mows nicely and does fine work. To night, we are having quite a heavy fall of rain. It has been my privilege to realize the Divine presence gloriously of late Praise God O My Soul.

JULY TUESDAY, 27 1886

Have been very buisy to day cuting the field of wheat back of the barn. A storm of rain last night and one to day makes slow work of harvesting. Still work fells with these binders. They are a wonderful machine and put an entirely new aspect on wheat harvest &c Mrs Reid came hoe again to night from Toronto & Port Hope

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JULY WEDNESDAY, 28 1886

It has been somewhat rainy betimes to day. Got the field back of the barn all cut however and the wheat nearly all up in shock. It seems slow geting along all alone; but still it is wonderful what one can do with these binders. Our machine works very nice. Had a short visit from Mr Priau last night and this morning.

JULY THURSDAY, 29 1886

Got moved down to the big flat this afternoon and the wheat there mostly cut The flat is so smooth and nice It was a pleasure to cut. It rained this forenoon and last night so as to hinder the forenoons work in the harvest field. J. A. McBride helped me load my reaper on the new binder trucks bought up lately for moving to the big flat to cut wheat.

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JULY FRIDAY, 30 1886

Finished cuting and binding of wheat on the Big Flat this forenoon and got moved to the field west of the woods, by noon. The Binder trucks work like a charm for moving. Can go through any gate with out difficulty Have been cuting the field West of the woods this afternoon Had some trouble with washouts ad new ground The weather has been fine to day.

JULY SATURDAY, 31 1886

Have been cuting the field of wheat west of the woods to day or rather what was left of it, for I cut some yesterday. Made out to get all cut to night but it took me till dark ; and then I had to cu leave some arround the stumps uncut. Got the binder put away also safely under shelter. It is a satisfaction to have Saturday night come once in a while.

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AUGUST SUNDAY, 1 1886

Ma, Bertha and I went up to Mount Lion to Quarterly meeting this morning Had an excellent sermon from an aged brother whose name was Williams, a super{illegible}. The singing was excellent and the testimonies good Had dinner at David Sterlings on the way home. Got weat on the way to Lion and also on the way home again Rain is plentiful now-a-days.

AUGUST MONDAY, 2 1886

Could not go to the Quarterly business meeting to day as I intended. The wheat cut on Saturday last being already dry enough to stock up so have been working at it nearly all day, and then have not got done. Had a short visit from Mr and Mrs Clarke this evening. They said that Thomas Jackson was getting a good deal better

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AUGUST TUESDAY, 3 1886

Got al through with seting up wheat to day also, cuting arround stumps and binding up Did not get through in time to go away with my four hogs to night though. Sold them to Mr George Vail at four eighty a hundred to be delivered to night or to morrow now. Have about finished geting things in readiness Mr McPhees have been geting in barley to day from the front field.

AUGUST WEDNESDAY, 4 1886

Took the four hoggs from the factory down to Jarvis this forenoon as I intended. The weighed eight hundred and forty pounds altogether and came to over forty dollars. Have been drawing in wheat this afternoon from the field back of the barn, John Martin and I got in four five loads McPhees have nearly finished geting in the barley, from the front field Had a short visit from Mifs Jones to day.

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AUGUST THURSDAY, 5 1886

John and I got in a couple of loads of wheat this forenoon and Mr McPhees one and it rained This afternoon however we got at it again and finished the field back of the barn and about half of the Big Flat Had eleven loads from the field back of the barn Mr McPhee, Billy and Eddie have been helping this afternoon also Mr. Reid and John Martin.

AUGUST FRIDAY, 6 1886

Have had very good success at our drawing in to day and have finished the wheat Had thirty two loads in all. Ten loads from the Flat and eleven loads from the field west of the woods. Mr McPhees have all been helping as usual, John Martin and Mr Reid also. Did not get done until night. Had Mr McDowell here to dinner, bought some seives of him for out fanning mill.

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AUGUST SATURDAY, 7 1886

Went out to Dover to day to see about various matter mostly relating to the McPhee house. Got some hair for mortar and some laith besides making arrangement for a pump and some other necessary fixing for the house. Saw a dead man who had been drowned on a drunken spree in Lake Erie yesterday. So much for that miserable drink. How its victims multiply.

AUGUST SUNDAY, 8 1886

It has been our privilege to attend the Methodist Church in Jarvis to day. Heard the new superintendent the Rev Mr Jackson preach. The sermon was founded on Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God. and was excellent. Am glad that our Jarvis friends are favoured with a good old fashioned Godly minister Sacriment was administered also.

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AUGUST MONDAY, 9 1886

Have been drawing Lumber and fence posts from the Saw mill to day. Got the remaining portion home all right, three loads in all. The weather is very hot now-a-days, especially in the middle of the day. The evenings are cool though. Sent Reid down to Jarvis after a keg of nails this afternoon. He got the keg of steel 2 1/2 in. nails at 2 2.90 per hundred.

AUGUST TUESDAY, 10 1886

Went after a load of lake sand this morning for plaistering purposes down below Wilson Porters on the lake shore. Got home another load this afternoon from the Beech at Port Dover. There was quite an exciting time there over a yacht race that took place this afternoon Some eleven or twelve yachts took part. Made arrangements with Mr Fairchild for a wooden pump to be made from an old one partly.

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AUGUST WEDNESDAY, 11 1886

I have been drawing stone to day. Bought a cord of Eli Collins, for McPhee's cellar. Settled up with Eli and owed him one dollar and fifty cents, on the stone. There has been some appearance of rain to day, indeed, rain has fallen some few miles away. Everything is drying up, for the want of rain. Billy has comenced cuting the clover seed to day.

AUGUST THURSDAY, 12 1886

Have been geting home the last of the stone from Eli Collin's to day. Brought one this forenoon and three this afternoon, making six loads for one cord of stone. Am in hopes that this will make enough to complete the cellar and foundation wall of the McPhee house. The weather has been very warm to day & is becoming quite dry.

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AUGUST FRIDAY, 13 1886

I went up to Springvale after a load of lime to day. Was never in that direction before and was delighted with the fine farming lands by the way. Brought home forty bushels and got along nicely with Maggie and Katie. There was a delightful little shower of rain this evening, which was very much needed Billy is still cuting the cloverseed by McBrides.

AUGUST SATURDAY, 14 1886

Have been working at sundry jobs to day. Mr McPhee and I got the box and feed ready to run off the lime; & hope to get this part done also by monday. Begin to feel the need of a rest and hope soon to have the privilege. It seems that my work has been more increasing than common this past Summer, if such a thing is possible.

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AUGUST SUNDAY, 15 1886

We did not go out to church this morning, but, this evening instead. Heard the blind preacher from Simcoe who is present supplying for Bro. Calvert. The brother who preached to night took for his text a passage in Solomon's Sons. Stay me with flagons comfort me with apples for I am sick of love. A strange text, but some useful lessons were brought out. Do not like to hear sermons from such texts however.

AUGUST MONDAY, 16 1886

Have had a delightful fall of rain to day which was greatly needed. Started to run off the lime for plastering this morning but was stopped by the rain. Billy & I finished up puting on the paper on the upper walls of the little house. Have about decided to go down to the Wesley Park Camp for a few days, Starting on Thursday next. Deo Volente.

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AUGUST TUESDAY, 17 1886

Worked away this forenoon at runing off lime as usual. It seems to be a very slow job for I have only got about three batches off to day all told. The Springvale lime is very slow to slack I have always heard. Went out to Dover this evening to take ma out mostly. Have felt much tried with Reids staying so long and makeing so free with our property.

AUGUST WEDNESDAY, 18 1886

Have been exceedingly buisy to day at my usual work. Finished runing off the lime and went out after a load of lath. Got fifty seven small bunches of Crosby Morgan. Settled up for the other lot and paid five dollars on the present. Addam and Nora were here to day but I have been so buisy that I could not visit with them as I desired.

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AUGUST THURSDAY, 19 1886

Ma and i started for Niagara Falls this morning. Mr Reid taking us to Jarvis Went down with an excursion from Simcoe and arrived at our friends Mr Skinners about noon. Had our dinners with these kind friends and went to the Camp meeting to night. Had the pleasure of Kittie's company which of course I enjoyed. The attendence at Wesley Park was not as large as I expected to see.

AUGUST FRIDAY, 20 1886

Went with ma and Mrs Watts to see the whirlpool rapids to day or this forenoon rather. This afternoon I went over to Manchester with Kittie who expected to meet a friend from Syracuse at the Station. We spent the whole afternoon in a fruitless tramp for we did not fine her. Went to Wesley Park again this evening and enjoyed it very much.

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AUGUST SATURDAY, 21 1886

Ma and I went down to Niagara the old town at the mouth of Niagara River this forenoon by rail. Arrived at the Rev. Samuel Wilsons a little before noon. Had a delightful visit with these kind friends and besides I went to visit the old fort Missisauga and Niagara the latter across the river. Was much interested in these old relics of former general {illegible}. Got back to Skinners this evening

AUGUST SUNDAY, 22 1886

Went to church in the village this morning with Mr Skinner, where we heard the new minister. This afternoon we attended at the camp ground and afterwards took a little strool down to the river, the whole family going with me. Took our lunch and remained to the evening service. Heard a Rev Dr Mahan of Alabania, President of Andrews College He delivered a noble discourse.

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AUGUST MONDAY, 23 1886

Took ma and Kittie down to Grimsby camp this morning to hear T.L. Talmage, who lectures this afternoon about the absurdities of Evolution. Mr W.H. Withrow editor of the magazine also gave a sort of lecture about the Niagara district Had the misfortune to have my pocketbook taken from my pocket with over twenty dollars enclosed besides a note for sixteen from Mr Parsons the Factory man.

AUGUST TUESDAY, 24 1886

Went to the meeting at Wesley Park this forenoon and after dinner at Mr Skinners we started for home by the Canada southern and North Western, to Jarvis Found Reid there waiting to bring us home from the train. Only for losing my pocket book I should have been well satisfied with my visit to the Falls. This circumstance detracts somewhat however.

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AUGUST WEDNESDAY, 25 1886

Took Doc, the horse that I sold last night down to Jarvis this morning. Got a hundred dollars for him. Not quite his value I thought but, having too many horses was glad to reduce the number at a small sacrifice. Went out to Dover afterwards and had dinner at Mr Barretts. After attending to some small matters of business. Came home and worked in the garden till evening.

AUGUST THURSDAY, 26 1886

I have worked in the garden all day to day. Got our turnips all cleaned and thined out besides doing a lot of other work. Billy finished cuting the cloverseed & got the reaper put away for another year. I have got the binder ready to comence cuting our last piece of oats in the morning. The Good Lord has continued His presence & my soul has rejoiced in Him.

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AUGUST FRIDAY, 27 1886

Got the binder ready this morning for work and started cuting the Flat before noon for McPhees The oats have been badly damaged around the outer edge of the field. They were a fine inside however. The weather has become quite warm and even sultry again. Have had some visitors from Simcoe to day Mrs. Harris and Aunt Lydia. Did not see them much however.

AUGUST SATURDAY, 28 1886

Finished cuting oats on the Big Flat for Mr McPhees to day. Have also got the binder put away for a long rest. Mr McPhees have got in the oats from back field to day. They only had eight loads from the field of eight acres. The big flat is much better however in every respect. The weather is very warm and even sultry. It requires quite an effort to do much work.

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AUGUST SUNDAY, 29 1886

Went out to meeting this morning as usual Heard the blind preacher again, who by the way has been supplying for Bro. Calvert in his absence. The weather was very warm. Did not stop to Class. My friend W. J. Carpenter and his wife & children came & took tea with us this evening. Am glad that my Bro has become interested in the doctrine & experience of holiness. For without holiness no man shall see God.

AUGUST MONDAY, 30 1886

Have been geting things in readiness for threshing to day. It rained quite a heavy shower this forenoon which came very acceptably. Went out to Dover this evening to get some meat and to do some other business. Took some wheat to the mill also. Got a half of veal or two quarters from Wm Watts weighing about forty seven pounds. Am to return meat for meat. Mrs W. had seen the Skinners since we saw them last.

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AUGUST TUESDAY, 31 1886

Have been threshing to day. Got along very well. Although it was owing a very disagreeable job owing to the heavy wind from the west and northwest. The two Henning boys have been helping together with Mr Hom and Sam McBride. Very unexpectedly recieved a letter from my friend Kittie this evening mostly with reference to Mr Watt's parasol however. Was glad to hear from her though.

SEPTEMER WEDNESDAY, 1 1886

Finished threshing wheat this afternoon. Only had three hundred and sixty one bushells from the machine off of twenty four acres of ground yielding at the rate of 15 Bu per acre of ground Ma and I went out to Dover this evening to look after some small matters of business. Called to see Mr Varey about plastering our little house. He has promised to come on Monday next Cool weather has come.

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SEPTEMBER THURSDAY, 2 1886

Have been engaged at sundry jobs to day. This afternoon I went down to the lake shore after a load of sand for plastering purposes. Intended to have gone out to Dover but could not get off in time. Had an old {illegible} come to us for lodgings to night, who is apparently a Jew. He sells jewellry and spectacles of his own manufacture he says.

SEPTEMBER FRIDAY, 3 1886

Worked in the garden this forenoon and this afternoon I went out to Dover after some brick to make a chimney or two for the McPhee house also some other necessaries - a barrell of salt and some lath &c. Went to our Basket social this evening. It was held in the school house. The music was excellent especialy the string band. Proceed go to building a sidewalk in Victor.

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SEPTEMBER SATURDAY, 4 1886

Helped Billy this forenoon at geting in oats. This afternoon I have been making a reach for the old waggon by way of repair. Worked some in the garden also Ma and I went down to James Holcombs this evening to hear about the folk below. Ruth had just come home last night from the funeral of her sister Mrs N.C.Holcomb. The funeral happened on Monday last.

SEPTEMBER SUNDAY, 5 1886

Took Ma and Bertha out to meeting this morning. Remained in the village to all the days services including Sunday School We had dinner with Mifs Giles & I took tea at Mr Barretts. It was our minister's first day after a month or more away. Congregation was good and sermons excellent. The Good Lord was also with us to own and to bless.

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SEPTEMBER MONDAY, 6 1886

Ma and I went out to town this morning to get some necessaries I went to the funeral of the late Joseph Bell while there. The poor man died from the effects of a spree. Was found dead in his bed. He was an old resident the oldest in Port Dover at the time of his death. Had been a liquor seller for many years and yet claimed to be a Methodist.

SEPTEMBER TUESDAY, 7 1886

Spent most of the forenoon hunting up the calves and went again this evening; but have not found them yet. Have been working the ballance of the day at McPhees geting ready to plaster the house tomorrow. The weather has been exceedingly warm during the day and is becoming quite dry McPhees finished geting their Cloverseed in the barn today.

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SEPTEMBER WEDNESDAY, 8 1886

Mr Varey and is three sons Josy, Eber and William came this morning and have been plastering the McPhee house for me. Mr James McBride and Will Henning have been helping me tend the masons. We have had a pretty hard time of it the Lime seemed to work so bad. They got the house pretty well done to night however.

SEPTEMBER THURSDAY, 9 1886

Mr. Varey & his son William helped about plastering and puting up the chimneys to day. Got done about five o'clock this evening, after which I took them out to Dover. Had William Henning to help tend the masons to day also settled up with the latter this evening and paid him off The weather continues very warm.

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SEPTEMBER FRIDAY, 10 1886

I took ma up to Simcoe this morning in time for the train North Left our horse at George Lemon's and took the Canada Southern Crossing. Got ma on board the train for Dresden to see my sister. Came back to Simcoe by the noon train Had dinner at George Lemons & enjoyed my visit with them there very much. Stoped at Mr L{illegible} to see about seed wheat.

SEPTEMBER SATURDAY, 11 1886

I have been at work runing off some lime for the second coat of plaster. Water being scarce I did not make much headway. Having to carry and draw from the creek all the water used. Mr McPhee and Billy have been to Simcoe with a couple of loads of corn, for canning purposes. Feel quite lost without my mother who is away.

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SEPTEMBER SUNDAY, 12 1886

Did not go out to church this morning on account of the rain. Went out this evening however and had a very good sermon from our minister. He preached from Jacobs dream, at Bethel. Took Mr Reid out with me. It seems so strange to have ma away so long. Hope to stand for a while though.

SEPTEMBER MONDAY, 13 1886

Worked at runing off lime for the last coat again to day. This afternoon however, I have been helping Mr McPhee at carpenter work most of the time. Went out to Dover this evening to see about some business matters. Promised Mrs J. Riddel to supply her with eight or nine bushells of potatoes by and by. Went to Prayer meeting also.

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SEPTEMBER TUESDAY, 14 1886

I went up to Mr Chryslers this morning after some seed wheat. He let me have twenty bushells which I am to pay him ninety cents this Fall for or what he gets for his wheat when he sells it. Went out to Dover after a load of sand this afternoon. Took the mail for Mr Reid also. Called to see Mattie for a few minutes.

SEPTEMBER WEDNESDAY, 15 1886

Expected to have had the masons to finish our the plastering of our little house to day; but were disappointed. Mr McPhee and I have been working away at making and puting on the window casings all day. The weather is somewhat changeable to night it is raining again. Billy took another load of corn up to Simcoe to day making his fifth load.

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SEPTEMBER THURSDAY, 16 1886

Have had quite a rainy day to day. Helped Mr McPhee most of the time this forenoon at geting Window and door casings on. Finished all to day. I went out to Dover after dinner Took Reid's mail out and back and did some other business of my own besides. The roads were pretty muddy and present prospects are that they will be worse before they are better.

SEPTEMBER FRIDAY, 17 1886

Mr B Varey and his three boys came out this morning to put on the last coat of plaster on for the McPhee house. They got it all completed by night. Took Mr Varey and William Varey home afterwards. Brought Mattie Will and Lilie Varey home with me. Intended to have taken them to J.R. Clarkes lecture in Jarvis but was too late.

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SEPTEMBER SATURDAY, 18 1886

Have been working at the McPhee house this afternoon, painting inside work Took Mattie Will and Lilie Very who have been visiting with us since last night with me down to Jarvis this morning. Took them home this evening. Called at Mrs Clarkes on the way home to see Mr N. C. and Holcombe and Mrs Lawes who have just come up from Pelham.

SEPTEMBER SUNDAY, 19 1886

On account of rain this morning we did not go to church as usual. We went down to Mrs Clarkes about noon. Mr Reid and I, Mr N. C. Holcomb & Mrs Lawes being there. Had a very pleasant visit with the latter. They came home with us on their way to James Holcombs and took tea with us. The only excuse for to days visit is that these friends go home to morrow.

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SEPTEMBER MONDAY, 20 1886

Worked away to day at paintin most of the time. Got quite a start. This evening I went down to James Holcombs to have a sing with Mrs Lawes They did not get home from Simcoe until late. but still so we did not get through until after midnight. Did not feel like comeing home after and so stayed all night at James

SEPTEMBER TUESDAY, 21 1886

Did not get home from James Holcombs until late. Worked at painting most of the time through the day however. This evening I went up to unckle John Matthews for tea with Mr Holcomb Some things about my visit were not overly pleasant. Have foolishly allowed myself to think a good deal of Mrs Lawes, even after a sad experience past.

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SEPTEMBER WEDNESDAY, 22 1886

I have been working away at painting the inside wood work of the McPhee house. Got over the last portion on nearly, the first time. The men have got to work on the wheat ground again to day. They have been gang-ploughing the field second north from the barn. The weathe is quite unsettled, however and the prospects are that seeding will be again interupted.

SEPTEMBER THURSDAY, 23 1886

Continued to work at my job of painting most of the time this forenoon as usual. Went out to Dover after dinner after Ma who came on the noon train from Dresden. The report from the folks at Dresden all well and buisy as usual making a living Brought Reids mail with me. Had Mr McSurly here to dinner to day.

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SEPTEMBER FRIDAY, 24 1886

Have been working at the same job as yesterday. Got about done painting the inside of the McPhees house; all but the unfinished portions. Billy has been sowing the field of wheat this side of the woods to day. Mr Reid has been geting his lime run off ready for the plastering to day His men got their dinner here.

SEPTEMBER SATURDAY, 25 1886

Worked in the garden this forenoon. This afternoon I went out with Reid takeing the waggon and brought home a load of brick for him. Had quite a time geting the bricks from the old wall and cleaned ready to load up. Brought about five hundred The weather is very mild and wet. We have a field of peas partly out yet The prospect is poor for taking care of them.

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SEPTEMBER SUNDAY, 26 1886

The rainy weather still continues & on account of it we could not go out to church this morning. Have enjoyed the day very much at home however and in reading meditation and prayer. This evening I went out to meeting the rain having stopped. Had an excellent sermon from a stranger whose name I did not know. It was childrens day.

SEPTEMBER MONDAY, 27 1886

Helped Mr Reid this forenoon and part of the time this afternoon to mix morter for the masons. They have been plastering his house this afternoon or rather to day. Am thankful that the job is done, excepting the second coat which is to be put on yet. Have been to the Cheese Factory this evening to see our old sow. The hoggs there have a strange disease and some die ours are well yet though.

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SEPTEMBER TUESDAY, 28 1886

The weather continues very unsettled and rainy. The tinsmith man from Port Dover was here and put up eavestroughs arround my little house to day. He put up the troughs for seven cents per foot. Mr McPhee took the last load of sweet corn up to Simcoe Canning Factory to day. Feel anxious to learn how the {illegible} has paid.

SEPTEMBER WEDNESDAY, 29 1886

The late rains have made the ground very wet and the roads muddy. Worked arround the house and in the garden this forenoon. This afternoon I went up to Simcoe and to Mr J. B. Carpenters with Billy McPhee I wanted Billy to hear Mr Carpenters plan of working farm at the halves which he has been trying for some years on one of his farms.

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SEPTEMBER THURSDAY, 30 1886

Have been working at sundry jobs this forenoon arround the house. This afternoon I went up to the Grange Hall to see the Wholesale agent. Quite a number of the members were there to give their orders. Mr McPhees have got to drawing in peas again To night however it is raining again.

OCTOBER FRIDAY, 1 1886

I have been working in the garden this forenoon geting beans gathered &c. This afternoon Ma and I went up to Mr W. L Nixons on the town-line to make a long promised visit Enjoyed a fiew hours with them very much. Found David Smith here when we came home. He wanted my Buck Sheep for two or three weeks. Had bad account of the McPhees of them.

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OCTOBER SATURDAY, 2 1886

Settled up with Mr McPhee this morning about the corn and got about fifty dollars for my share. Took the mail out to Dover for the Reids and while in Dover. I paid my second Binder note at the express office, ammounting to eighty eight dollars. Have still another note to meet next year. It has been a dear implement. Took Sarah Walsh to P{illegible} this evening.

OCTOBER SUNDAY, 3 1886

Bertha and I went out to Dover this morning to church. Had a very good sermon from the Townsend circuit minister Rev Mr. Russ. The leading members of the congregation lately requested the minister to have class meetings again instead of fellowship meetings. The request was granted Do not feel much gratified with the change, for I never could seem to fall into the duties of leader readily.

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OCTOBER MONDAY, 4 1886

Have tried to do something in the way of work to day, but the rain has made it some what slow. Worked in the garden most of the time. This afternoon have been digging potatoes. Find them a splendid crop Had some conversation with Mr McPhee about his staying on. Mr & Mrs Clarke were here to tea with Mrs Clarkes daughter.

OCTOBER TUESDAY, 5 1886

Have been digging potatoes to day with all my might. Got the beauty of hebrons done and a nice pile of the Red Dakotahs. The latter are much the largest and best to turn out. The weather is quite mild, even warm PM McPhee went away this morning, to Stratford Am expecting that the whole family will leave before long.

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OCTOBER WEDNESDAY, 6 1886

Got started at digging the Red Dakotah potatoes to day. They are much better to turn out than the Beauty of Hebrons, and of a grater size. Mr Reid has had the Vareys puting on the last coat of plaster on his new house to day. They got it done to night. Had their meals here. Bro Calvert is here on a visit this evening for a short time.

OCTOBER THURSDAY, 7 1886

Worke a good part of the time at my potatoe digging to day as usual. Went up to the Grange this afternoon however expecting to have had a meeting, but was disappointed. There was only two there besides myself. Mr W. L Nixon and John Hair. We are somewhat affraid that our Grange is going to die out. Prospects are not at all good at present.

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OCTOBER FRIDAY, 8 1886

Worked at my potatoe digging most of the time to day. Had to visit with my friends part of the time however. Went up to unckle John's to dinner with Mr Gutcher. The weather has been very warm to day, and continues the same It is very pleasant however and the roads geting good again Was surprised to find our old white sow sick to night. She has eleven little piggs three or four weeks old.

OCTOBER SATURDAY, 1886

Worked away at my potatoes this forenoon as usual. This afternoon I have been doing a very unpleasant duty. Had the misfortune to loose our old breeding sow from inflamation of the lungs. She had eleven little pigs three or four weeks old am in hopes that the little piggs can be saved Our friend Allie Horton & her little ones left us this afternoon. So did George Gutcher.

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OCTOBER SUNDAY, 1886

Took Ma and Bertha with me to church this morning. Had our dear old friend and pastor Rev James Gray to preach to us both morning and evening. Enjoyed both services very much. He seems to have improved very much, being much more earnest than before. Took tea with Bro Gray and wife at Mary Giles. Had dinner at Mr Stringers and Went to Sunday School & from there went home with Mattie.

OCTOBER MONDAY, 11 1886

After doing chores I have been digging potatoes to day. Have just about got done for this year. The crop has been excellent both in quantity and quality. The weather is very fine or I might better say delightful, and so warm. Have not enjoyed as much of the love of God in my heart to day as in other days because of my unbelief. Lord help.

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OCTOBER TUESDAY, 12 1886

Finished digging potatoes this forenoon. Ma and I went out to Dover this afternoon to look after some matters of business. Took tea at Mrs Learys Enjoyed an hour with these friends very much. Went to see about selling wheat. Found the price to be quite low. and Only about seventy cents per bu. The delightful weather still continues.

OCTOBER WEDNESDAY, 13 1886

I have been working at gathering apples to take to Simcoe, to the Dryer to day. Was disappointed in finding some of the apples too soft to peel and a great many more than I expected were rotten or partly so. The weather has been very fine and warm, to day. There is some appearance of an early change in the temperature. Had some talk with Billy to night about re-engagement

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OCTOBER THURSDAY, 14 1886

An exceedingly heavy wind and rain storm has been visiting us to day. Mostly Wind from the south-West. Fences have been badly upset and some trees blown over. In Port Dover the high water and heavy sea have done great damage arround the harbour Both Peirs and part of the light house have been destroyed. Besides other property.

OCTOBER FRIDAY, 15 1886

Worked away at sundry jobs to day. Finished makeing a new Driving house door this morning. Picked some apples also. Mr Gutcher and I went out to Dover this evening. It was a disappointment to hear of the Fall in Wheat prices. It has almost gone out of the market for the time being. Buyers of last year being heavy loosers.

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OCTOBER SATURDAY, 16 1886

I went out or rather up to Simcoe to day Took ma along with me. Had dinner and tea at Florences. It has been one of my darkest days. Sometimes I think the Lord has indeed forsaken me. My desire in all my life long to this hour has been to owe no man anything but to love one another My expectation has become more and more hopeless.

OCTOBER SUNDAY, 17 1886

On account of rain we did not get out to church to day though we fully intended going. It rained at the time of both morning and evening service Have had a high day at home however. The Good Lord has been graciously present during my pleading at the throne of grace and while I have been reading the precious book of all books.

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OCTOBER MONDAY, 18 1886

The rains have ceased again & fine weather is the order of the day. Mr Gutcher left us this morning for the Port and I went out to Dover about noon. This afternoon we have been threshing John Henning has been helping me. Have made a partial engagement with him for the winter. Expect the McPhees to leave us soon. Mrs Reid has been after her furniture to day.

OCTOBER TUESDAY, 19 1886

Have been threshing grain to day Finished up, the peas and got the clover seed pretty well done. The latter did not seem to turn out as well as we thought it would. Instead of forty bushels we will only get about thirty. Had a dreadfully dirty job as in fact we always do when we thresh cloverseed. The weather has been very warm for this season.

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OCTOBER WEDNESDAY, 20 1886

Threshed the remainder of cloverseed this morning and got started at threshing oats; but for want of help we had to stop threshing & this afternoon went to the show in Simcoe. The day being fine a great crowd was gathered and the number of entries was considerable Got home just in time to escape a wetting.

OCTOBER THURSDAY, 21 1886

I went down to Jarvis this morning after the Grange goods. Stopped at James Holcombs for dinner on the way home. Mrs Holcomb came home with me, to spend the afternoon with ma. Finished threshing this afternoon for this year. Have also been distributing the Grange goods to the several par parties as well. Had a visit from the Holcombs this evening.

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OCTOBER FRIDAY, 22 1886

Have got to work at last gathering apples John and I got the barn doors shut from threshing this morning however I have been geting apples packed ready to take out to Dover to morrow. Had William Gilbertson here this evening to see about working the place at halves in the McPhees place. Think some of trying Gilbertson if he concludes to take the chance.

OCTOBER SATURDAY, 23 1886

John has been working at the apples again to day. I helped this forenoon. Got four barrels ready and took them out to Dover this afternoon for Mr Barrett. Had dinner with these kind friends. Saw Mrs Frank Barrett who just came from Chicago last evening, where she resides. She is a large fleshy lady rather good looking.

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OCTOBER SUNDAY, 24 1886

I went to service in Dover alone this morning There being some appearance of rain Ma thought best not to go. It did not rain however. Our own minister preached to us as usual A service of song was annointed for this evening to be conducted by a Mr Buntley who is holding a musical conference at present in our ch church.

OCTOBER MONDAY, 25 1886

Went up to Simcoe this morning to see about note, also to Mr James McKnights in Windham who is interested somewhat. Had a very cold drive up there being a cold, strong North West wind blowing all the way. Did not find Mr McKnight at home as I expected, so I remained till night to see him & on account of the darkness had to remain all night.

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OCTOBER TUESDAY, 26 1886

Came home from Windham this forenoon by {illegible} The wind had changed right about so blowed in my face comeing home as I did {illegible} It has been blowing very strongly from the North East & very, very cold Found them all right at home. Went down to Mr J Holcomb this evening to visit with his mother. Billy & wife who had been to {illegible} and away.

OCTOBER WEDNESDAY, 27 1886

John and I got to work again this forenoon at gathering apples but still we did not get nearly done. This afternoon however on account of rain we have been doing some other work. Brought home a load of wood from John Marr slashing. Settled up with John A McBride for twine &c for which we owed nearly two dollars Had to give my note for that amount payable Jan 1st 1887.

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OCTOBER THURSDAY, 28 1886

Rain continued to fall this forenoon, but fair weather has set in this afternoon. Went down to Holcombs about noon. Had dinner wt with them and Billy Holcomb. The latter started for North Pelham this afternoon. I have been geting some plastering done this evening I went out to Dover after some groceries & other necessaries.

OCTOBER FRIDAY, 29 1886

John and I have been geting our apples put away ready to take to the cider mill and for other uses. Had some n{illegible} to see about renting. Did not commit myself however. Hope to get a more satisfactory lot of people next time. The weather is quite warm & with frequent rains. The roads have become very heavy.

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OCTOBER SATURDAY, 30 1886

Have spent our time mostly at gathering apples to day I went out to Dover this evening to see about certain matters. Our apple crop this year has given us much work and very little money. The prospect still keeps poor for makeing money out of them, or in fact any-thing else Our business is much in need of money though.

OCTOBER SUNDAY, 31 1886

Ma and I went out to Dover this morning to church as usual It is sometime since ma went however. Our minister preached and the service was quite interesting. Tickets for the Nov. Quarterly meeting were distributed. A large number remained to class. It has been a most delightful day - so warm and sunny. The roads also are geting good.

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NOVEMBER MONDAY, 1 1886

John and I finished picking the apples to day. He got up a load of wood this evening. I went up to Simcoe this afternoon, called at Dan Rose's mill and made arrangements for geting money on the wheat to pay interest. Was quite successful in makeing arrangements for other matters requiring attention. God Himself has been with me to help.

NOVEMBER TUESDAY, 2 1886

John and I got a load of wheat cleaned up this forenoon and he took it up to Dan Rose's mill for me this afternoon. I have been patching up the roof on our old house. Did not find it as bad as I expected. Will have to shingle before long however, if the Good Lord spares us. The weather is very fine indeed; so warm & Spring like. Got our old Sow home to day from the factory.

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NOVEMBER WEDNESDAY, 3 1886

We got another load of wheat cleaned up this morning and I took it up to Rose's mill afterwards. Got money of Rose to pay my interest with and sent it away by express afterwards. Mr McPhee gave me his account for building this morning It was a good deal more than I expected. Feel much discouraged sometimes. But God knows best.

NOVEMBER THURSDAY, 4 1886

I sent John to the Lynn Valey mill with another load of wheat to day. This makes three loads that we have drawn. the roads are in fine condition for this time of year. I went out to Dover this evening to see about some matters of business. Have been plastering some patches in our dining room through the day with some other work.

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NOVEMBER FRIDAY, 5 1886

I sent John away with another load of wheat this morning makeing four in all so far. Have been fixing up our old house for the winter. It always takes a lot of repairing before cold weather comes, to keep it out. Went down to Holcombs this evening. James had just returned with Ruth from Pelham, where they have been visiting for a fiew days.

NOVEMBER SATURDAY, 6 1886

Our first fall of snow came last night, and has continued nearly all day. John and I cleaned up some tymothy seed this forenoon This afternoon we have been working at cleaning out the barn cistern. Find that we have got into a very serious job of work there, which may take two or three days. Had a short visit from Mr Bird last night John took Sarah home to night, for me.

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NOVEMBER SUNDAY, 7 1886

I took John with me and went to the Jarvis Quarterly meeting this morning. Did not get there in time for the early service, as we were unacquainted with the time. Enjoyed the meeting very much. Saw Mrs Lavern Horton on the way home. She goes home to morrow. Am trying to live in the performance of every know duty with God's help.

NOVEMBER MONDAY, 8 1886

I went out to Dover this afternoon with a load of potatoes for Mr Barrett Sold twenty five bushells for at forty cents per Bu. Made some further contracts to suply potatoes also. Saw Harry Barrett who had just returned from Chicago. Had a visit from David Smith and W. Gilbertson this evening, to see us about renting our farm.

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NOVEMBER TUESDAY, 9 1886

John and I have been engaged much as usual. Got up a grist of wheat and of peas for chop this forenoon. Went to Simcoe this afternoon, took my grist along to Rose's mill. Attended the Division Grange this afternoon as well. Got home with my grist just in time to escape a serious soaking. The weather has become quite warm again.

NOVEMBER WEDNESDAY, 10 1886

Worked at the stable this forenoon and at other jobs. John has been working in the garden at taking care of roots. I went out to Dover this afternoon to see about certain matters Got the promise of Mr Montgomery to pay the Senior note, so the Good Lord is beginning to deliver me. John Henning is going home to night Expect Bob McBride in his place however.

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NOVEMBER THURSDAY, 11 1886

My new hand Bob McBride came this morning and has been helping me to day. We have been gathering in turnips and other roots together with cabbage and cellery, for Winter The weather has been very cold and disagreeable all day, a north East wind has been blowing incessantly Am thankful for a readiness for winter Went to the Grange this afternoon as usual.

NOVEMBER FRIDAY, 12 1886

Finished geting in our cabbage and other vegetables from the garden this forenoon. This afternoon Bob has been geting up a couple of loads of wood from John Marr's bush. We have continued to be very busy at our preperation for winter mostly to day A snow storm is in progress to night. This seems Winter in earnest.

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NOVEMBER SATURDAY, 13 1886

I have been sorting over and puting away apples for the winter to day. Found the weather rather cold, but still, the work has made some progress. Bob has been helping at sundry jobs. Got our cows all up to night and calves, for the first time Snow fell last night, so that the ground is well covered with perhaps five inches.

NOVEMBER SUNDAY, 14 1886

Did not get out to meeting this although it was quarterly Service. Had to do my chores all alone and this prevents my geting ready in time. The roads were in a pretty bad state owing to the late snow storm, besides. Have enjoyed the Sabbath at home however very much Find it good to wait upon God even at home as well as in the sanctuary.

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NOVEMBER MONDAY, 15 1886

Have been very buisy geting some potatoes and apples ready to take out to Dover this forenoonand this afternoon I took them out. The roads are pretty bad now the snow having about all melted. The weather is fine however and I am sure the roads will soon be good again if this weather continues Sold the ballance of my potatoes at 40 cts per bushell.

NOVEMBER TUESDAY, 16 1886

Bob McBride and I have been as buisy as possible to day at sundry jobs. Fixed fence on the East side of the ten acre field in order to pasture the corn field a while. This afternoon we killed our old pet ewe for mutton. Have been puting away apples and cloverseed besides doing some other chores. We are having a visit from our old friend G.W. Lemon to night.

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NOVEMBER WEDNESDAY, 17 1886

On account an incessant rain fall to day we have not been able to do very much out of doors. I have had Bob doing chores most of the time while I have been picking over apples. McPhees sale came off this afternoon notwithstanding the rain, quite a large number of people came and things sold very well.

NOVEMBER THURSDAY, 18 1886

Snow has been falling nearly all the time to day, and the wind has been blowing almost a hurricane. I have been sorting over apples in the woodhouse and Bob has been helping. Billy went up to Simcoe with another load of moveables through the storm. To night we have settled up and got along much better than I expected The Spirit of my God was not with held in our business.

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NOVEMBER FRIDAY, 19 1886

Finished picking over our winter apples this forenoon, while Bob got up a couple loads of wood from John Marr's I went out to Dover this afternoon to see about some important matters of business Got a couple of hundred dollars of Bro. Montgomery to pay the Senior note, to be paid in twelve months with Seven percent Interest. Settled the McPhee matter also by giving my note for the amt $20 for one year with Int.

NOVEMBER SATURDAY, 20 1886

The fine weather which we have had to day compelled me to do a good deal more than I would otherwise have done. Went up to Simcoe in the first place to deposit some money in the Bank. Next I went to Dover with a load of potatoes which I sold at forty cents per bushell Found the roads pretty bad though Am thankful to have these things attended too.

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NOVEMBER SUNDAY, 21 1886

On account of the very bad state of the roads this forenoon we have not been able to get to our own church to day. Went over to Mr Gradys church this forenoon instead. Have enjoyed reading the precious work and other priveleges during the day. God has been my support and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore the earth be removed and the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.

NOVEMBER MONDAY, 22 1886

I have been geting a load of apples ready for the cider mill to day. Have had Bob McBride ploughing. Got him started in the big North East Corner field. He made some complaint about it being wet. The weather has become very warm again & ploughing weather in earnest. Hired Peter Mitchel for the four months to day at ten dollars per month He begins to morrow.

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NOVEMBER TUESDAY, 23 1886

Rain has been falling since last night most of the time. Peter has been ploughing through the day however. Found our corn ground rather wet so we comenced ploughing the new ground field instead had a letter from Cynthia Spence this evening with sorrowful news. Feel much sympathy for any woman who has a drunken husband. She was once a schoolmate.

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NOVEMBER WEDNESDAY, 24 1886

Peter Mitchel has been ploughing again to day in the new ground field. Albert McWade came about noon and is going to help plough after to day as the ground keeps open. I got my load of apples ready for the cider-mill this forenoon. This afternoon I took them up to Simcoe and sold them at ten cents per Bushell. The roads were pretty bad being frozen somewhat.

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NOVEMBER THURSDAY, 25 1886

Albert McWade and Peter Mitchel have both been ploughing the new ground field to day. The weather is somewhat wintry but still sod ploughs well. I have been working away geting potatoes pitted up for the winter and some other chores done through the day. It begins to seem like home again after McPhees departure. Their presence was very irksome.

NOVEMBER FRIDAY, 26 1886

The boys have both been ploughing in the new ground field as usual They are geting along nicely after all The weather has some appearance of becomeing colder though. I have been sorting and bagging apples for the cider mill with some other work. Went out to Dover this evening to take some butter &c.

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NOVEMBER SATURDAY, 27 1886

Albert McWade and Peter Mitchel have both been ploughing in the new ground field as usual. Albert got up wood this forenoon however. I have very busy at sundry jobs It seems as though I am never to complete my arrangements for Winter. Have felt very much tempted to dou'bt and fear to day. But still the sun-light is breaking through the clouds ever and more. Glory to God

NOVEMBER SUNDAY, 28 1886

We did not go out to church this morning on account of stormy weather and bad roads. This evening, however Mr Reid and I made out to get out and back. We seem to be haveing more bad roads than common this fall The service this evening was conducted by our own minister, who preached about the rebuilding of Jerusalem, drawing inference there from.

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NOVEMBER MONDAY, 29 1886

Started early this morning for Simcoe and had a rough ride over the bad roads. Had also to go up to Mr. McKnight's in Windham to see him about the Hall Note due to day. Got back in time to save trouble. Got the money of T.R. Nelles to meet of Was told a wilful murder that had been committed in Simcoe last night by the Gallagers, a Roman Catholic family. Brought home my new suit of clothes fomr Cope's tonight.

NOVEMBER TUESDAY, 30 1886

My man and I have been working at sundry jobs arround the barn and house to day. We are trying to get our cistern repaired up at the drivebarn. The cover having caved in last spring. We are now in a fare way to get it done up in good shape. Am thankful to have good help at last. Peter Mitchel is a good faithful man Would be glad to have such help through the summer.

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DECEMBER WEDNESDAY, 1 1886

Peter and I have been working at the cistern this forenoon. This afternoon he has been drawing manure over to the garden, while I have been doing some other work. A change has come at last and the weather has become cold and wintry Had a short call from John Belbec this morning. Settled up an account with him for Sawing my note, payable in Eleven Months from to day.

DECEMBER THURSDAY, 2 1886

Peter and I cut wood in the woods this forenoon for the first This afternoon I went out to Dover partly to take Reids mail . Took a bag of apples to Bro Calvert also. The weather has been exceedingly cold and windy Had a very disagreeable ride out to town and back There seems to be plenty of talk about elections now-a-days. I suppose it will continue for some time to come.

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DECEMBER FRIDAY, 3 1886

Have had Peter at work geting out manure from the cow-stable to the garden patch to day. I worked at spliting and cuting wood a good part of the time. The weather is very cold and frosty. About Zero weather most of the time Had quite an exhibition at the School-house this evening. Proceeds for the building the Victor side-walk. Had a good laugh at R. Lampkins speech.

DECEMBER SATURDAY, 4 1886

Have had Peter at work at the manure drawing again to day. I have been engaged much as usual. Went out to Dover this afternoon to take some apples to our minister. &c. Came home by Mrs Clarkes. Had a pretty rough ride that way. The weather is cold and frosty. Fine cold winter weather No prospect of a change for some time to come.

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DECEMBER SUNDAY, 5 1886

Have spent another Sunday at home. It beats all how habbit grows on one. We have not been to church in several weeks on account of bad roads and inclement weather. It seems easier to find an excuse now for staying home than in the beginning. The roads are still quite rough and the weather very cold this forenoon, so much so that we had not pluck enough to start.

DECEMBER MONDAY, 6 1886

Went down to Holcombs this morning with to see about geting James to help butcher. Was greatly surprised to find that Mr N. C. Holcomb was there with Joseph Thomas. Had a short visit with them & came home. Have been doing sundry jobs this afternoon Had Mr Reid, Mr Holcomb to see us this evening My man has been geting out manure again to day from the cow stable.

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DECEMBER TUESDAY, 7 1886

I drove to Mr William Porret near Nanticoke this morning to pay Sarah Walch a small ballance due her for work. Have been working since at Sundry jobs. Peter has been geting out manure most of the time as usual. Had a visit from Mr. N.C. Holcomb this evening with little Arthur Lawes James Holcomb and wife were here also.

DECEMBER WEDNESDAY, 8 1886

My man has finished drawing and spreading manure on the garden patch to day. I have been somewhat unwell but took ma out to Dover this afternoon and went up to Lige Decons to see about geting some cider made. Find that the roads are geting quite good again Fine warm weather seems to be near us again Snow appears to have fallen all arround us abundantly but none here.

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DECEMBER THURSDAY, 9 1886

Peter and I cut wood in the back woods this forenoon This afternoon he has been drawing while I went up to the Grange. Succeeded in geting my office of the Secretary on the Shoulders of another. P. Judson Austin for which I am thankful The wholesale Supply agent was at the Hall with Samples Recieved a letter from our dear friend Mrs Hiram Depew of Hopewell N.Y. to day.

DECEMBER FRIDAY, 10 1886

I went to E. Decon's cider-mill to day, having put off going much longer than I intended on account of cold weather comeing as soon. Have had Peter at work at the wood pile & at other jobs. James Holcomb Came this morning to help kill hogs; but gave it up on account of cider-making. The roads have got quite good since the thaw.

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DECEMBER SATURDAY, 11 1886

Have been engaged at sundry jobs to day and so has Peter. I went down to the cheese factory this afternoon to get the last payment for cheese. Recieved a much larger sum than I expected viz eighteen dollars. Went from the factory to Dover, after some necessaries. Bought a hand-saw and some other tools to replace those carried away by the McPhees.

DECEMBER SUNDAY, 12 1886

We fully in intended to have gone to church this morning, but again failed. Got our chores done in time to go out this evening however. Had a very interesting service, our own minister officiating. The text of the evening was the vision of the dry bones in Ezekial. Some very good points were made. On particularly embracing a comparison between the dry bones and Sin.

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DECEMBER MONDAY, 13 1886

On account of rain to day Peter and I have been working in the barn at cleaning up tymothy seed and some other grains. It appears as though a change is comeing in the weather for it seems much colder this evening. Had a short visit from George Ryerse this afternoon Settled up with him in a kind of a way. Was surprised to find from his testimony that I had paid him 15$ that I had not put down.

DECEMBER TUESDAY, 14 1886

Looked for James Holcomb this morning to help us about killing our hoggs He failed to come so I went down to see about it. Came home immediately and got things in readiness killed two hogs myself being the first that I remember of. Got five killed and dressed I has some appearance of snow for sleighing. It has is falling quite fast & comes from the South West.

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DECEMBER WEDNESDAY, 15 1886

I went down to Jarvis this morning to take the old Sow. Sold her carcas 328 lbs for at four & a half cents per pound Took a smaller pig to Dover this afternoon to Mr Barrett It weighed 10 139 lbs sold at 5 1/4 cents per pound. Came home by Mr William Porock near Nanticoke when I went after Sarah Walch who has come to help me again. The weather has been extremely cold to day.

DECEMBER THURSDAY, 16 1886

Peter and I helped Mr Hom finish his threshing this forenoon This afternoon we have been cuting wood in the woods. The threshing business don't seem to agree with me very well. I am quite poorley again as the result. The weather is quite changeable. To night there is every appearance of a fall of snow This would be a great convenience to us just now.

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DECEMBER FRIDAY, 17 1886

Peter and I helped neighbour Hom thresh again this forenoon. This afternoon we have been cuting wood in the woods. Have felt like anything but work though. Threshing almost invariably makes me sick. Would be glad if farming could be done without having to do such dirty work. The weather is looking much like Winter snow is falling to night.

DECEMBER SATURDAY, 18 1886

Peter and I worked at cuting wood in the woods this forenoon. This afternoon He has been drawing manure and wood, while ma and I went out to Dover. Drove the cutter for the first time this winter, found the roads very good. Am especialy favoured these days with the Divine presence and blessing. His presence makes my paradise. What must it be to be there.

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DECEMBER SUNDAY, 19 1886

Ma and I went out to church this morning, the first time in a good while. She stay for the evening service and I went back after doing the evening chores. Had a young Bro Baer of the Walsh circuit who fairly astonished us but by his eloquent and powerful preaching. He is not twenty one yet and only comes preaching about ten months ago.

DECEMBER MONDAY, 20 1886

I have been very busily engaged as usual at sundry jobs. Made a tongue for my bob sleigh besides doing some errends. Want to take the ballance of our wheat to market so we have also got our horses shod ready. Am exceedingly grateful to Almighty God for continued manifestations of his presence and the joys of His great Salvation. I never felt more happy in Him.

DECEMBER TUESDAY, 21 1886

Finished making my sleigh tongue this forenoon This afternoon Peter and I cleaned up a load of wheat or rather twenty five bushells and I took it to Cooks Mills, Twenty bushells of it went to pay for seed wheat got of Chrysler last fall. Brought home a barrell of coal oil for the Reids to start on in their store. They have such up hill work in geting started. I feel sorry for them.

DECEMBER WEDNESDAY, 22 1886

Peter and I cleaned up a load of wheat this forenoon this afternoon I took it up to Roses mill While I was away Peter has been cuting and spliting wood at the woodhouse. Got five gallons of oil at Reids new store this afternoon. being the first thing bought there since its erection. Hope to see it in full blast in a feiw days.

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DECEMBER THURSDAY, 23 1886

We cleaned up another load of wheat or rather the balla Fl this forenoon and I took it up to the mill. Had 30 Bu & 31 lbs on this load After comeing home we cleaned up the ballance and only had about twenty bushells instead of sixty as we expected. We went down to the Wattses this evening ma and I for an evenings visit. Have had one of my blue spells however so did not enjoy it much.

DECEMBER FRIDAY, 24 1886

It has been raining most of the time to day Towards night however the wind changed to the North West and it turned to snow. It looks now like cold weather again. Peter and I have been cleaning up some tymothy seed this forenoon We have been cleaning up the drive barn and packing away the implements. It has been in a very bad state since the McPhees left.

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DECEMBER SATURDAY, 25 1886

Being Christmas day, Peter has been away for a hollowday. I have been doing chores nearly all day as a consequence. Had Christmas dinner at home all alone excepting Mr & Mrs Reid who were with us. The weather has become quite cold with splendid sleighing Scarcely any snow on the ground either.

DECEMBER SUNDAY, 26 1886

Went out to church this evening took Bertha and Daisy with me. Mr Calvert had what he calls children day to day, his sermon being intended for the children altogether. The congregation was very large this evening. The minister took for his text What manner of child shall this be. Several interesting points were made by the minister. The children were quite interested.

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DECEMBER MONDAY, 27 1886

I went down to Jarvis this morning after a box of Grange goods but was disappointed in geting them. The weather has turned very cold since last night, and sleighing is splendid. Have been cuting wood in the woods this afternoon Mr. Ross was here this afternoon on electioneering business. He is quite a politician and is greatly interested in his party these days.

DECEMBER TUESDAY, 28 1886

To day being being Election day for Ontario Parliament, I went to put in my vote this morning up to Wiggins School house. The day has passed off very quietly for such a time. The weather is very cold. Had James Holcomb here to dinner. He generaly comes election day, to see us. Have been cuting wood in the woods this afternoon Peter and I. Hope to do more of this soon.

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DECEMBER WEDNESDAY, 29 1886

Peter and I got a load of straw into the drive barn this morning for the horses. I went to the School-meeting afterwards. Had quite an interesting time a new school house being under discussion. I went out to Dover this afternoon to see about some small matters Learned that the Conservative candidate Morgan was elected by over a hundred majority in our own riding.

DECEMBER THURSDAY, 30 1886

Peter and I have been working in the Woods a good part of the time to day. The weather has been very cold and disagreeable; but fine winter weather. I am reading a book entitled The Prince of the House of David & am greatly delighted with it. Can scarcely leave off reading when in the house. It is not only pleasant reading but exceedingly proffitable.

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DECEMBER FRIDAY, 31 1886

I went down to Jarvis this forenoon after some Grange goods. Had a pretty cold drive; for a disagreeable strong East wind was blowing. Called at Holcombs on the way home. Had William and Mrs Watts to take dinner with us. Peter took five hundred of hay or thereabouts over to Reids which he has agreed to return when I want it. A heavy snow storm from the East is in progress.