The Canadian Pocket Diary

1926

PUBLISHED BY THE BROWN BROTHERS, LIMITED

MANUFACTURING STATIONERS

TORONTO

IDENTIFICATION {Printed form with responses handwritten} My Name is Ernest H. Buck

Address R.R.#2, Paris, Ont.Can.

96 ring 5 'Phone 217 ring 2

Birthday July 12

Age 20 Height 5 ',9 1/2 "

Complexion Dark Weight 155 In case of accident or illness please notify

Chas Buck.

If anyone should find this book kindly return to above address.

THINGS HARD TO REMEMBER

Number on case of my Watch

" movement "

Automobile License No.

Engine No. H.P.

Size of Tires

Number of my Bank Pass-book 25

My accident insurance falls due on }

My life insurance policies fall due on { June 15, 1945

{Printed} CALENDAR 1926

January Friday 1 1926

Made an excellent start in 1926 by spending the first three hours with Jean at a party at Cochranes. My first three dances were swell ones with Jean. Home at 4.20 making five hours sleep in three nights. Birleys here for New year's dinner. Good feed and retired early for a wonder.

Saturday 2

Felt better after a good nights sleep and everything went O.K. all day. Alex and Uncle Tom went to town at night but returned early instead. Saw Barton girls down town in morning with their Dodge brothers.

Sunday 3

Home from milk route around 12.30. Alex helped me with the bottles so we got everything cleaned up before dinner. Worked at books in afternoon fixed horses up for night, Then drove up home with "King" and later drove to Jean's. My first Sunday evening in 1926 a pleasant one with a ride in the Dodge.

January Monday 4 1926

Very mild damp day which took practically all the snow away. Drove sleigh for last time for a while. Didn't get home until late after a very busy morning.

Tuesday 5

Damp mild day. Alex drove big truck and helped me peddle from it. Home about one o'clock after having driven big truck until {Ruxle?} change for first time when I delivered in the Upper Town and Flats myself. Cleaned harnesses at night.

Wednesday 6

Peddled milk with Geo. Telfers democrat for the first time. Damp raw windy morning with mostly snowstorms. Team started for home while I was in Geo. Inksaters but Lloyd Hooper stopped them at the corner of Warwick. Cleaned brass at night.

January Thursday 7 1926

Dandy bright cold day.Up early and away on my route at 7:45 but didnt get home until 12:45 Heavy cold started in on my chest and throat getting worse near night. Ernie Buck had a cold upon his chest so he rubbed it with camphorated oil and went to bed early.

Friday 8

Cold frosty morning turning still colder with easterly winds later in the day. Felt pretty tough all day with bad cold on my chest and sore throat. Got some medicine from Dr. Jeffery. Alex helped me with milk route and my bottles. All alone at night as {Birleys?} all went to a party. Started to snow about eleven o'clock.

Saturday 9

Snowed very hard until after three so that by morning there was about six or eight inches on the level. Drove new milk sleigh for the first time and Bob came down and drove the team for me. Felt pretty tough in the afternoon so came home and went to bed. Dr. Carey gave 32 Bendemere Guernseys the tuberculin test.

January Sunday 10 1926

Last night was the first night all of us slept under one roof since February 27th 1924. Turned out blustery in afternoon. Dad and rest of family drove car to church in morning. Didn't go to see Jean as night so my cold was pretty bad.

Monday 11

My cold wasn't in very good condition all day but was out to the barn for a few minutes when Uncle Ern cam over. Dandy time playing cards when he taught us how to play "blind Charlie". Jean called up.

Tuesday 12

When I first got up my head felt pretty good but later I had severe pains in it so Mother put me to bed. Mr and Miss O'Neil, Mr and Mrs Wells were here for dinner. Great feed including ice cream made by Prof C. Buck Jr.

January Wednesday 13 1926

My head ached all day so I didn't enjoy myself very much.

Thursday 14

Mother put a muster plaster on back of my neck and my head began to feel better.

Friday 15

Quite a bright frosty day. Got up out of bed for the first time. Roscoe brought Mr. Gidney up from work to spend evening with us. Ernie Cochrane came in at night and he and I defeated Carl and Roscoe playing "500".

January Saturday 16 1926

A dandy bright day. Wrote a letter to "Karen" in the morning and went outside for the first time in the afternoon. Played checkers with Bob and euchre and crokinole at night.

Sunday 17

Nice mild day. Some fo the folks went to church but I stayed home and got fussed up. Went down to spend afternoon with Jean. Melville and Eleanor were there and we had a great time which included taking{snaps?} Jean, Lou and Jack brought me down to "Bendemere" with "June" at night.

Monday 18

Nice wet rainy day for me to start back on my milk route again but I did and got along fine as Alex helped me. Home about 12:30. Felt rather tired all day but didn't get to bed until about ten o'clock.

January Tuesday 19 1926

Up early and had my team hooked up at seven o'clock. Away on route shortly after. Very nice mild day. Glenmorris short course boys were here in the afternoon judging. Quite a time holding cattle and sheep and watching them.

Wednesday 20

Busy day on my milk route. Rather a disagreeable kind of a day to be out. Counted up back tickets in afternoon so didn't get bottles washed till late. Fixed up horses and got milk ready after supper. Saw Uncle Tom print pictures for first time.

Thursday 21

A couple of inches of snow fell early in the morning. Nice bright day turning colder and blustery at night. Saw Jean and Dan in town. Worked at books until 10:30 at night and had a chat over the phone with Jean.

January Friday 22 1926

Rather a colder blustery day. Had to run on milk route to keep warm so got home at 12:15. Speeded up my work all morning and afternoon so that we were all through chores at 6:15. Off to Hockey match at seven. Paris defeated Brantford 6-3 in a great game.

Saturday 23

Nice bright morning but later turned out to be a cold and very windy and blustery afternoon and night. Stayed home at night and retired at ten o'clock.

Sunday 24

Spent another one of those pleasant Sunday evening with Jean and the Barker family listening to the radio.

January Monday 25 1926

A busy day for me peddling milk and I was rather tired at night after the late hours the night before.

Tuesday 26

Alex and I saw the Grimsby - Paris hockey game. Thirty five minutes of scorless hockey. Score 3-2 for Visitors. Clark of Grimsby knocked "Schneakin" out when he hit him a terrific blow across the face with his stick in the last period.

Wednesday 27

January Thursday 28 1926

Friday 29

Saturday 30

Sunday 31

Took Jean up home for Supper Aunt Becky and Grandma Weir were there so we had a nice visit with them. Went down to Barkers shortly after ten but didn't get home until late as we had a great feed of ice cream.

February Monday 1 1926

A very busy day for me checking up tickets on my milk route and didn't get home from milk peddling till late. Worked on my books at night until I went to sleep and had to go to roost.

Tuesday 2

Jack and Lou, Roscoe and Jean came down and we had a great time skating on the river after which we had some music and I had some lovely dances with Jean to phonograph music. Mrs Burley gave us a swell lunch.

February Wednesday 3 1926

Went to bed at 1:15. Felt pretty good when I got up after four hours sleep but my legs were pretty tired when I got home from the milk route. Received some nice compliments about Jean.

Thursday 4

Light fall of snow during the night made the sleigh run better. Lovely winter day. Had a busy afternoon bottling up first can of milk we received from Percy Van Sickle. Had a chat with Jean and retired early.

Friday 5

Walked to town at night where I met Jack, Lou and Jean and we saw Harold Lloyd in "The Freshman" at the Capitol. Some picture and we had a good laugh. High School Commencement also. Paris beat {illegible }

February Saturday 6 1926

Alex was on the sick list so it {kept?} Tom, Earl and I busy doing chores in his absence. Uncle Tom went to town but went to bed early.

Sunday 7

Home from town and had my bottles all washed up and ready for dinner at 1:20. Mr and Mrs Roy Kelly and Grandma and Grandpa Willamson were here for dinner. Helped with chores at night and then went up to Jean's for tea where I had a very nice time.

Monday 8

Paris held Port Colbourne to a tie of four all in game at the port. As usual a busy day for me on Monday.

February Tuesday 9 1926

Rather a cold blustry day and cold east winds blowing at night. Drove to town at night and attended "Father and Son" banquet at 6:30 in Community Hall. Great feed with dandy programme and sing song. Dad was will represented with five sons present.

Wednesday 10

Very cold frosty night. Dan took Lou and I took Jean to Cunninghams at night. Dandy time playing cards, eating and doing puzzels even if we didn't go skating. Lovely drive home with Jean and got home at quarter to four. Paris and Pt. Colbourne tied 2-2.

Thursday 11

Up at five thirty after about an hour and a half of peaceful slumber. Made good time on route considering it was the morning after the night before.

February Friday 12 1926

Weather turned milder for a change. Busy day as usual with my route and dairy. Posted Valentines and played cards at night. Grandma and Alex beat Uncle Tom and I.

Saturday 13

Men finished hauling ice. Jack, Lou, Jean and I went skating at rink and had a very nice time. Lovely mild night. Port Colbourne defeated Paris 7-1 in sudden death game in Niagara Falls. Received two Valentines. Nice one from Jean.

Sunday 14

Received can of milk so didn't get home until five after twelve. Went up home in afternoon after Alex and I got bottles washed. Dad and Mother were away. Went down to see Jean after Supper. Heard sermon on "Ideal Wives" and Anna Case, wonderful soprano singer in Atwater-Kent radio hour. Nice time.

February Monday 15 1926

Dandy mild day turning colder at night and blustery. Worked at my books at night until I had them pretty well square up and retired at ten o'clock.

Tuesday 16

Cold frosty day but very bright. Home from route at twelve o'clock. Busy afternoon in the "dairy" washing and bottling. Very short of bottles and had to put part of night's milk in can. Harry Hough's party but we didn't go.

Wednesday 17

Busy day peddling milk and washing bottles. Earl kept reminding us of his birthday on the eighteenth by repeating. "Tomorrow my birthday"

February Thursday 18 1926

Mild snowy night Had a great time up at Barkers at night listening to teh radio, playing cards and dancing wigh Jean. Lovely drive home facing wet snowstorm Queen was all white when I got home at 2:45.

Friday 19

The morning after the night before but I got along fine wading through the days snow. Blustery at night and turning colder. Paris tied with Durham 2-2- in hockey game. Roscoe and Carl took {June? illegable} to Branford and sold her.

Saturday 20

Home in good time from route. Dollar day in Paris and saw Mother and Dad. Verna's birthday Alex and I singed "King" up in afternoon.

February Sunday 21 1926

Very frosty morning with thermometer registering 12 below zero. Met Mrs Findley for first time. Went up home for supper about five o'clock. Had a dandy time down at Jeans at night when I met Mrs. Midgely. Pleasent ride home with her afterwards. In bed at 1:45 AM.

Monday 22

Milder temperature but a raw wind blowing from the east made it feel colder than it actually was. Rather tired at night so retired at 9:30 and had a real sleep. Paris defeated Durham 3-2 in hockey game at Durham.

Tuesday 23

Lovely bright frosty day. Busy day as usual with milk route and dairy. Retired in good time after I fixed the horses up for the night. Dad and Mother had party for the older folks.

February Wednesday 24 1926

Very frosty morning. Hoar frosty so that when that when the sun came out the trees and landscape were very pretty. Received word from Mother about party on Friday night.

Thursday 25

Very sick at my stomach with dizzy spells when I first got up. Sprinkling at five o'clock but later turned and poured rain all day with strong wind. Alex took route in my place and I went to bed. Feel better at one o'clock so got up and went to work. Busy afternoon in dairy. Stopped raining early at night and turned colder.

Friday 26

Took a sleigh load of young people up home to a party. Had a great time and enjoyed some real dances with Jean. Bobbie came home with me and drove the team all the way. Arrived at Bendemore at four o'clock and found Fasken here doctoring a sick cow.

=== February Saturday 27 1926

Bobbie drove the team on the milk route for me so we made good time even if we were pretty tired. Just got to sleep at night when Alex called me and asked me to help him doctor "Dasiy" the sick cow, but I was soon in bed again and sound asleep.

Sunday 28

Bobbie helped me on the milk route again. Went to sleep when I drove him up home at night. Had a nice time when I spent the evening with Jean and saw the last of February and the beginning of March.

March Monday 1

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Tuesday 2

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Wednesday 3

Roscoe was down at Bendemore helping unload a car of hay so we both walked into a party at Eleanor's at night. Had a nice time and walked home as far as Burrills with Jean.

Thursday 4

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Saturday 6

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Sunday 7

Spent another enjoyable Sunday evening with Jean when we heard Josef Hoffman over the radio during the Atwater - Kent radio hour.

Monday 9

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Tuesday 9

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Wednesday 10

Alex purchased a pretty black mare at a sale of Western horses in Brantford and brought her home behind Leo Clarks car along with one Charlie Bailey purchased. They named her as soon as she arrived "Jean of Bendemore". Oyster supper at Les Kelleys.

March Thursday 11 1926

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Friday 12

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Saturday 13

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March Sunday 14 1926

Drove my new black mare up to see Jean at night for the first time. Edward Johnson sang over the radio in the Atwater - Kent hour and I had an another nice time with Jean and the family.

Monday 15

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Tuesday 16

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March Wednesday 17 1926

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Thursday 18

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Friday 19

Roscoe and I went to crokinole party at Jay Wells. Had Jean for a partner from the start and we stayed at the head table for eight games until Carl and his partner defeated us. Had a real nice time thanks to Jean.

March Saturday 20 1926

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Sunday 21

Lovely day. Roscoe went with me on the milk route when we drove Jean alone for the first time. Belyea's were here for dinner and I had lots of help washing bottles after dinner. Drove Queen up and spent a very pleasant evening with Jean.

Monday 22

Two o'clock when I got home and in to bed but was up in pretty good time just the same. Busy time when I took Jean alone in the milk route myself. Retired early after we fixed horses up.

March Tuesday 23 1926

Up at 4:50 and it was raining and kept it up until in the afternoon. Nasty day on the milk route but I didn't get wet thanks to my rubber coat. R.O.P. cow-tester arrived for a two-day with us and three of us rode home from Paris on Gammas democrat.

Wednesday 24

Jean of Bendemere stood fine on the milk route so I made good time and was home and ready for dinner at 12:30. Payne's came up at night and played euchre while I worked at my books and played the Phonograph. Ice broke up in Grand and went over the dam.

Thursday 25

Shipped " Man Fielding" off to Woodstock and thereby got rid of one good bay of wind but not until he had left some of it with us.

March Friday 26 1926

Roscoe and I drove up for a few minutes and then attended progressive crokinole party at "Wells" Jean and I were partners from the start and stayed at head table for eight games losing out to Carl and his partner.

Saturday 27

Didn't get much sleep the night before so we rather tired when bed time came so the Buck {Brow} went to roost early.

Sunday 28

Roscoe helped me with the milk route so that we were all through by 11.10 A.M Called at the hospital on the way home to see Earl Leath and took the fellows in a few bottles of good milk. Had a lovely time at Jean's at night and Golden {Guernsey} for lunch. King brought Roscoe and I home in a hurry. In bed at one o'clock.

March Monday 29 1926

"Blue Monday" because I didnt know enough to come home early and get more sleep. Quite a time teasing Roscoe about Aileen on her birthday.

Tuesday 30

Drove Roscoe up home at night. Mother wanted me to stay all night as I was tired but I was glad I didn't as by morning we were having a real ice storm.

Wednesday 31

March certainly went out like a lion with a terrible ice storm doing millions of dollars of damage Used "King" on milk route and got home at two o'clock soaked to the hide. Supposed to go to see Jean but weather was too bad.

April Thursday 1 1926 Weather still bad. Put sleighs under milk box and used the bay team to peddle milk with. Came home again with a pair of wet knees due to rain.

Friday 2

Another nice April rain made peddling rather unpleasant even if my team did go fine.

Saturday 3

"King and Queen" ran down Whitbreads hill themselves when I left them parked at the top. They sure felt fine and plastered me with slush coming home.

April Sunday 4 1926

Did the milk route up in four hours and a half with the twins and the sleigh. Drove Jean up home for a few minutes and then down to see Jean after. Had a pleasant time as usual and was home by one o'clock.

Monday 5

A light fall of snow early in the morning made it possible to run the team and sleigh on the milk route. Warm sun came out and cooked the snow so that it was hard pulling before I got home. Bobbie Vanderlip helped me with my work in the afternoon. Jean hurt her leg.

Tuesday 6

Jean felt pretty frisky when I peddled milk with her again for the first time in a week. Davis Patton went with me and held my Black mare.

April Wednesday 7 1026

Raining in the morning but faired up around nine o'clock but started again late in afternoon. Jean balked on hill in the lane when I started out and refused to go with coaxing her so Alex put a chain around her neck and pulled her out to the road with "King" after which she went better.

Thursday 8

Put in a wet cold morning peddling milk as the rain of the night before kept up until about 130 when it faired and later in the day the sun shone. Wanted to go up to see Jean but the roads were very bad so fixed up the horses and retired in good time.

Friday 9

A lovely bright Spring day for a change. Only took part of the milk with me on account of bad roads and Alex brought the balance in on the big truck. Mr. Telfer came out in the afternoon and told me that I was to get an increase in salary.

April Saturday 10 1926

Lloyd Ross helped me on Saturday with the milk route so I finished up in pretty fair time. Everybody else went to town at night but I stayed home, fixed up the horses and retired about en bells.

Sunday 11

Alex brought part of my load of milk in on big truck. Called at hospital for a few minutes to see Earl Scott on way home. Mr Midgely, Mrs Midgely, Miss Midgely, Mr Burrill, and Bobbie came out in afternoon. Nice time at Barkers at night. Heard Frieda Hippall sing over radio. Home at two-oclock.

Monday 12

Another fine day. Alex went to Faskin's sale and purchased another wagon for the farm. Felt pretty tired at night so retired at 9.30 as soon as we finished the chores across the road.

April Tuesday 13 1926

An ideal quiet bright spring day. New milk wagon arrived in Paris so Alex took it down to Gardner to get trimmed up. He was late getting home so it was late when we were ready for the roost.

Wednesday 14

Nice bright morning with warm wind blowing but about noon it got cloudy and rained for a while then turned cold and froze hard at night. Had another time with Jean when she refused to climb milk house hill so had to tow her up with the truck.

Thursday 15

Alex took Jeans new collar in and got it fixed up so that it fitted her shoulders better and she went a lot better on the start.

April Friday 16 1926 A damp wet morning. Alex and I peddling Flats and Upper town in an hours time with the truck when he brought in part of my load on it. Left Allan Scotts {dairy misspelled?} in town and took home new wagon.

Saturday 17

Initiated new milk wagon on the Golden Guernsey milk route and it worked fine. Some classy outfit and the talk of the city.

Sunday 18

Ottos were here for dinner. Went up home for Supper late in afternoon then took Jean to church to hear Francis Nickawa. Lovely time with Jean when she had her first ride behind "Jean of Bendemere" nearly got in a mix up at station bridge

April Monday 19 1926

Busy day on milk route and I received some nice compliments from the "Crook's" about Jean.

Tuesday 20

The neighbours and friends gave {Nancy?} Lawson a shower in Falkland but I didn't go but the Buck's were well represented by the rest of the gang.

Wednesday 21

Took Jean to Canning to see a real play entitled "Always in Trouble" and it sure was good. A lovely night and I had a wonderful time and the nicest drive I ever had with a wonderful girl namely "Jean".

April Thursday 22 1926

Another fine day with a beautiful night again. Fixed Jean of Bendemere up after supper and retired with memories of the night before.

Friday 23

Started my earlier delivery when I got up at 3.30 or there abouts and was home at 11.30. Had my first attempt at sleeping in afternoon Dance at Glenmorris at night and Andrew Telfer offered to take me but I decided to stay home.

Saturday 24

Alex wanted me to go to town with him at night but we were late getting through and Mrs Telfer came out for a few minutes. Retired at 9.30.

April Sunday 25 1926

Arrived at Barkers at night just as the "Star" from Hamilton was going out the gate. Roscoe was there so we had quite a lively evening as per usual. Didn't get back to Bendemere until 1.30.

Monday 26

Took sick at my stomach after Supper and before I got into bed had a real vomit losing all my supper and possibly my dinner. Failed to hear my alarm clock at 3.45 so had to do some stepping when I did get up.

Tuesday 27

Felt pretty dizzy at four so slept in till five. My sick stomach took all my ambition away but I managed to keep going and do the milk route myself. Finished chores up at 6.30 so we could get to bed early.

April Wednesday 28 1926

Supposed to go up to Jeans at night but wasn't feeling very well and weather was so disagreeable that I decided to stay home at night.

Thursday 29

My stomach felt some better so I made fairly good time on the route but was pretty tired at night so went to bed early

Friday 30

Went up to see Jean at night and we went up home for a drive. Had a nice visit with the folks and left for home quite early. Pleasant drive as usual with Jean and home by 12.20

May Saturday 1 1926

A dandy spring day. Spent a busy day with the route, in the dairy, and then waashed my milk-wagon late in afternoon. Late with chores at night but Alex and I went to Paris in the Chevrolet. Nice time with Jean in the Dodge. Had my first Guernsey milk shake.

Sunday 2

A real warm Spring day. Called at hospital to see Samson on way home from town. Drove up to see Jean at night and heard several accomplished artists in last Atwater-Kent radio winter program. Had a wonderful drive with Jean afterwards when we took Melbourne home. Home the same day as I went for first time in ages.

Monday 3

Rained for a short time early in the morning then turned colder and windy. A cold night for May. Sowed the first grain in 1926 on Bendemere Farm. Retired early after a busy day.

May Tuesday 4 1926

Alex and I attended Patton's sale for a while in the afternoon and brought home a load of hay afterwards. Tired in afternoon as I didnt a snooze.

Wednesday 5

Earl of Bendemere went home sick with the result that Grandma called up and expressed her views of the matter.

Thursday 6

The Birley family and I went up to Barkers to hear Mac speak on the radio but were too late. However we heard some splendid dance music and had a very nice time.

May Friday 7 1926

Attended U.F.Y.P.O. Box Social in Maus School and paid $1 for a box with no name in it. It sure was some box. Elected chairman for the evening Something new for me. Phylis and Andrew went with me. Jimmie Barkeley arrived at Bendemere

Saturday 8

Washed my buggy up in afternoon after I had finished in the dairy and "Jean of Bendemere" took Alex and I to town in it at night as the cook went to Ayr in the car to stay until Sunday.

Sunday 9

Did my milk route up in 4 hours and 35 minutes from time I left home. Alex had steam up so we finished washing up at 12.30. Spent a few hours or rather a few minutes with Mother on Mother's Day after I had got Jean. Then Carl and Roscoe went with us up to Arts. Ford refused to go in Gray Dort's stall after {breaking or brushing?}{top?}. Nice time and pleasant drive home with Jean.

May Monday 10 1926

Jean got frightened at steam roller working on High School campus, started cutting up, hold back snap broke but I managed to prevent a runaway after she kicked the front of the milk wagon three or four times. Rather an exciting incident for me.

Tuesday 11

Rather a cool Spring day. "Jean" was rather frisky so Jimmie put her on the harrows in afternoon to tame her down. Started a spec. in Tretheway-Ossian with 300 shares.

Wednesday 12

Jean and I went driving and were up home for a few minutes. Had quite a chat on investments etc. Heard C.FGC jazz music, followed by lunch at Barkers and was home and in bed at one o'clock.

May Thursday 13 1926

Alex, Jimmie, and I took the calf Mr Telfer gave me up home in the car and stayed for a few minutes. Dad sold my heifer to T.J. Wiles from Brantford for $65.00 and gave me a cheque for her.

Friday 14

Pinehurst opened up and Alex wanted me to go up but I felt too tired so stayed at home and worked on my books as I had them all up to date. The biggest day yet when I sold 116 quarts.

Saturday 15

Peddled 116 quarts of milk and took on three new customers making a total of 144. Alex took Cecil and I to town at night in the "Chevie" and I had a fine time with Jean in the Dodge.

May Sunday 16 1926

"Star" car and gang were at Barkers when I arrived but left shortly after. Helped wash up the dishes and then Jean and I went for a short but very pleasant drive which turned out to be our last "buggy ride" behind Jean.

Monday 17

Rather tired at night after another so-called "Blue Monday" so hit the hay early.

Tuesday 18

My sixth pay day since I started working for Bendemere Farm. Naturally I deposited almost all my wages to make up for withdrawal a few days before

May Wednesday 19 1926

Used "Jean of Bendemere" on milk wagon for last time. She was very restless. Mr. Telfer took some snaps of her with his big camera. Alex, Jimmie, and I drove to Brantford at night to look for a new horse.

Thursday 20

Took "Tom of Bendemere" on milk route for first time and got along alright even if he was "powerful" green.

Friday 21

Charlie drove "Dolly" down and we traded horses. Jean called around for me and took me to U.F.Y.P.O. meeting at Maus school where they elected me President. Carl and I lost interesting debate to Wm {McReces?} and Miss Mitchell.

May Saturday 22 1926

"Our gang" went to town at night in the Chevrolet Coupé. Had some time in the Dodge with Melville and teasing Eleanor. "Klu Klux Klan" burnt a fiery cross just back of Ford Garage.

Sunday 23

Drove up to McCrows and had Supper with them. Took Marge down to Barkers afterwards. Jean and I went for a drive with old "Queen" up home and didn't get back very early. Home somewhere around 1.30.

Monday 24

Had an invitation to Brown's party at Galt but couldn't get a car to go with so couldn't go. Jean went with Cochranes. Alex took Jimmie and I to Pinehurst Small crowd but good music Danced with "Katie" & "Isabelle".

May Tuesday 25 1926

Felt "fairly good" as Jim says after my first night of dancing at Pine Hurst. Rather tired so had a real sleep in the afternoon.

Wednesday 26

My throat started to get sore so got a bottle of "Klenzo Liquid Antiseptic" at Sandercocks to gargle it with and retired early.

Thursday 27

Andrew Telfer and I drove up to W.W. Carrs to attend directors meeting where we made arrangements for Bethel play and drew up programme until end of July. Ice-cream and cake afterwards and a chat with "Jean".

May Friday 28 1926

Had a big day on my milk route peddling 120 quarts of cow juice. Felt rather tired after the night before so retired early.

Saturday 29

Jean and I both had to attend a length meeting of U.F.Y.P.O. directors in the Community Building so didn't get a chance to get a milkshake or have a chat in the Dodge.

Sunday 30

Helped Jimmie milk so he could go with me on route. I sure had some time with him. Busy all afternoon working {for? illegible} dairy. Buck, Sidney, and McCrow company came down for a while and I felt so tired at night that I stayed at home for first Sun evening in months. In bed 8.45.

May Monday 31 1926

Gave Jean her first ride behind "Dolly of Bendemere" when she took us for a pleasant drive around the block. Spent the last couple of hours of May 1926 listening to the radio.

June Tuesday 1

Started another month off right trying to sing and dancing with Jean. Home and in bed at 2.15 but not with out getting caught in the rain which started when I was almost home but later came down heavily. Jim and I drove up to hospital at night to see Samson even if it was raining.

Wednesday 2

A fine Spring day. Alex drove truck to Goderich for Geo. Telfer. Andrew, Jimmie, and I went up to Clarence Lees to get ready for play. Rather a busy session and didn't get back until late. Made a record when I peddled 124 quarts.

June Thursday 3 1926

Up at Lees again at night to continue preparations for the play. Hughie took me down town afterwards to put up poster and maybe we didn't have a fast ride home even if we did have a puncture.

Friday 4

The big night. We had a splendid night and a capacity house to see the play which was wonderful. The orchestra was also good. Took in $56.30 at door. Good feed afterwards, made arrangements about removing stage and scenery so didn't get home until 2.30 after Dan and Jean drove us to Galt Road corner in the Dodge.

Saturday 5

Jimmie took me that I spoke "bravely" when I acted as chairman at a large gathering for the first time the night before. Busy day for me. Didn't go to town at night but washed the milk wagon etc. until I could hardly see.

June Sunday 6 1926

Did the milk route up in 4.55 when Alex said they would wash the bottles if I was back by 11.30. Went up to Jean's in afternoon but it rained just after I got there so we couldnt take any pictures. Dad and Mother and girls arrived home safely after spending the week end in Hamilton. June 6, 1926 will never be forgotten by me as it was then that I had a perfectly wonderful drive with "Jean".

Monday 7

Felt great after such a wonderful time the night before and after being home at eleven o'clock. Was home from town at 12.15 considerable earlier than usual. Jimmie, Alex, and I all did book work at night and retired at 9.45.

Tuesday 8

Up at 4.15. Made good time on milk route and was home at 12.10. Lovely day with a couple of light showers around noon. Found calf dead in morning and "Dairy Maid" loose with a badly damaged hip.

June Wednesday 9 1926

Jack brought Jean down to Paris and we went to see "Prince of Wales tour of Africa and South America at Capitol Theratre. The picture was very good but the best part was the drive home with Jean afterwards.

Thursday 10

Saw Mr. Bates "R.O.P." Government man who told me he was coming the next day to test our Bendemere cows.

Friday 11

Alex, Jim, Bill, Bates, and I went to Pinehurst at night to the dance. Had a couple of dances and was home at 11.30. Mr. Bates found out he couldn't beat the "luck"

June Saturday 12 1926

Jimmie and I bought a mouth organ when I drove to down and took he and "Bill Bates" with me. Had a fine time with Jean in the Dodge. A "musical ride" coming home due to Jimmies new "fiddle".

Sunday 13

Uncle Art, Aunt Edith, Grandpa, Aunt Maude Uncle Ed, and boys and all the folks came down for picnic dinner at Campground with me. Had a fine time eating and a great time when we had our first swim and boat ride in 1926. Jean couldn't come down with rest of gang but we had a lovely drive together at night.

Monday 14

No wonder I felt fine all day after such a wonderful drive with such a wonderful girl the night before.

June Tuesday 15 1926

Jimmie stamped tickets for me at night and I wrote a letter to Harry Weir. The first letter I had written since January.

Wednesday 16

Had a fine time at Eleanor's party playing "Five Hundred" and dancing to music produced on Miss Edward's new piano. Home at 1.30 AM.

Thursday 17

Rather tired after night before so was glad when night came. Rained in afternoon. Down to other farm after sheep at night. Jimmie caught three trout and Alex and I went for a boat ride on the fish pond.

June Friday 18 1926

Took Jimmie to U.F.Y.P.O. meeting at Maus school with me and we had a queer time singing on way home. Had our first sing-song. Mr. Butcher gave interesting lecture on "How Plants Get Their Food". Had lunch with "Jean".

Saturday 19

Drove "Dollie" to town at night and took Charlie and Jimmie with me. Jean and I saw Harold Lloyd in "For Heaven's Sake" at the Capitol Theatre. It sure was a real picture.

Sunday 20

Did milk route up in four hours and three quarters. Jim helped me wash up so I was through at 1.15. We both slept for over two hours in afternoon. Uncle Art and Aunt Edith were at Barkers at night when I had my fourth meal. A wonderful time and wiped dishes for Jean afterwards.

June Monday 21 1926

Had about six women on milk route after me about sour cream but managed to get home safely around 12.45. Retired early at night and had over eight hours sleep.

Tuesday 22

Slept in but made good time after I did get up. Jimmie and I went down to Charlie's and had a few good wrestles and also when we returned home.

Wednesday 23

Got a hair cut so didn't get home until about one. Started to clean driving harness so didn't get any sleep. Rather a sharp but heavy thunderstorm about {?.30 - off page}. Didn't rain very long before it cleared up. Wonderful evening but I cleaned up my milk wagon harness.

June Thursday 24 1926

Took Jimmie, Charlie, and Bobbie to the Mission Garden party on the Paris Agricultural Grounds. Very good programme and I had a wonderful time with Jean.

Friday 25

Had a pair of stiff legs all day but Jimmie and I drove up to Harry Hough's shower just the same. Large crowd so only danced once and that was with Jean. Thunderstorm before we got home. Pinehurst burnt down.

Saturday 26

Felt pretty good after the night before. Went to town at night in the Chevrolet as I had to attend committee meeting. Made it short and snappy and was home early.

June Sunday 27 1926

Home from the milk route early Drove up home for dinner and Alex and Jimmie washed up in afternoon. Took some snaps up home and then had a fine time at Barkers and a drive to town after tea. Gave Melville and Eleanor a dandy buggy ride.

Monday 28

As usual a busy day for me after being early Sunday morning, so retired early at night as I was rather tired.

Tuesday 29

Sold a lot of tickets and collected a nice lot of accounts as it was nearly end of month.

June Wednesday 30 1926

Took in $57.57 cash on milk route the largest cash receipts for one day since the Golden Guernsey milk route started. Got snaps I took on Sunday and they were fine.

July Thursday 1

Finished my work up early in the afternoon and drove up to Barkers. Helped Jean milk and then drove up home for tea. Nice drive back and I certainly had a wonderful time with Jean. Sweet memories of a year ago when I started going with Jean.

Friday 2

Felt great all day but why shouldn't I with a girl like Jean as an inspiration and after the encouragement I received the night before

July Saturday 3 1926

Didnt go to town at night but Alex, Jimmie, and I went for a swim and boat ride instead. We sure had some queer sport with Jim.

Sunday 4

Got kitten at Wicksons in morning and Jimmie and I took it up to Jean at night. Jimmie named her "Polly". Jean opened her five-pound box of chocolates and as Jimmie says we had a queer feed.

Monday 5

Drove up to Geo Telfers after supper after the cream. Had a swim, then kicked football for a while followed by a lunch of cake and lemonade. Made arrangements about going to picnic.

July Tuesday 6 1926

Peddled my milk in a hurry and was home and had bottles washed by a little after one thanks to Alex. Had a speedy ride in Hughies Dodge to U.F.Y.P.O picnic at Soper Park Galt. We had a fair crowd and a good time especially on slippery raft. Great feed for supper. Saw good show at Scott's Theatre afterwards.

Wednesday 7

Jimmie helped washed the bottles after dinner then we went down to Presbyterian Picnic on Vanatters flats. Came home to do chores at 4.30 and were back for supper at 6.15. Maybe we didnt have a great feed, followed by good programme of races, sing song and fire-works. Over six hundered were present at the picnic.

Thursday 8

Dr {last part illegible - Dunta?} asked me about eleven o'clock if I would have my blood tested for a blood transfusion. I did and it was all O.K. Went to hospital at two and was on operating table for 3 to 4.15. Rather a unique experience for me and got my first meal and vision of hospital life. Had a stiff arm & felt weak, afterwards. {Austia or Austis?} brought me home at 9 P.M.

July Friday 9 1926

Felt pretty weak but Lloyd Ross helped me on milk route so I got along alright. Helped Alex pitch our tent in the back yard and had a real sleep afterwards.

Saturday 10

Stayed home from town at night for a change and went to bed early as I was feeling rather tired and weak after my experience at the hospital.

Sunday 11

Russell Willetts and three of the boys came down after me and gave me a fast ride home for supper in his Dodge. Roscoe drove me down to the Barkers and then brought Jean & Lou with him when he drove me home. Jean gave me a small parcel not to be opened until the 12th.

July Monday 12 1926

The mysterious birthday present Jean gave me last night turned out to be a swell set of cuff links. Had the pleasure of spending part of my 21st birthday with Jean at the reception for the new minister, Mr Wilson and also his family. Great time with Mr and Mrs A. Taylor.

Tuesday 13

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Wednesday 14

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July Thursday 15 1926

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Friday 16

Clayton Wilson, government R.O.P. cow tester arrived at Bendemere as the men were stacking sweet clover hay.

Saturday 17

Tom and Alex tied Jimmie to the fence at night when they came home from town and he was lying on the bed. He Had quite a time getting loose when he woke up at one o'clock and blamed it on the cow tester.

July Sunday 18 1926

Alex drove the truck for me on the milk route so we were through and home early. Took Mr Wilson over to Gerald Brooks and then went to church. Communion service and heard Mr. Wilson for the first time. Took Uncle Tom with me up to Barkers at night and then had a nice drive up home with Jean.

Monday 19

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Tuesday 20

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July Wednesday 21 1926

Mr and Mrs Birley took Jean and I to Canning Garden {ending of word is smudged} party in the "Chevie" A good programme, and a wonderful {night? wording was changed/written over} so we certainly had a dandy time.

Thursday 22

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Friday 23

A wonderful day. Cleaned brass on my harness after I washed the bottles. Visitors here for tea and we had a musical concert in the tent after Supper.

July Saturday 24 1926

Roscoe came home from town with me and had dinner at Bendemere Farm. He had a sleep and when I had finished my work we went down to the Mission Picnic on the flats here. Won second in Young Mens Race and first in sack race and had very nice time. Drove to town at night to see Jean.

Sunday 25

Jimmie helped me wash bottles when I came home so we were through by 1.15. Had dinner and then drove up to Barkers to spend afternoon. "Barkers" from Burford were there and we sure had a great feed of cherries. Wonderful drive with Jean after tea in the twilight and then the moonlight.

Monday 26

As usual a busy day for me. Rode to town at night in Easton's "Buick" and attended practice for play at Inksaters. Home early at 10.30.

July Tuesday 27 1926

Alex and I went to Mr Sayles barn dance. A dandy night, a big crowd, but the music was punk. However I had a good time thanks to Jean.

Wednesday 28

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Thursday 29

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July Friday 30 1926

The girls entertained the boys at the regular U.F.Y.P.O {meeting held? - words are overwritten} at Carrs. The boys supplied the lunch and served cake and ice cream. Carl and the boys brought me home in the Ford.

Saturday 31

Down town at night and had a fine time with Jean and the gang in Dodge Brothers sedan.

August Sunday 1

Not a very nice day but had a good time when a whole gang came down here for a picnic dinner. Met my cousin Ethel Lackey for the first time Took Jean and her for their first boat ride on the Grand and got stuck in the rapids on the rocks.

August Monday 2 1926

Home from milk route at 7.45 when I had Roscoe acting as truck driver. Busy day for us at Bendemere when we won the first prize for the best decorated horse drawn vehicle in the big Civic Holiday parade. Attended races and also street dance at night. No sleep from 3.45 AM to 12.10 AM.

Tuesday 2

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Wednesday 4

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August Thursday 5 1926

Took show harness up home in the truck then went with Jean in her car to a U.F.Y.P.O. directors meeting at Les Kelleys. Drew up programme for balance of the year 1926. Dandy drive coming home and Jean let me drive the Dodge part way.

Friday 6

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Saturday 7

Nice time with the gang in the Dodge at night and a feed of ice cream at the Café afterwards.

August Sunday 8 1926

Celebrated Roscoe's and Grandma Harley's birthdays up home at noon. Went swimming after dinner and then down to Barkers where they had 19 for Supper. Nice drive to Brantford and back to Bendemere in Jacks car after the milking was done.

Monday 9

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Tuesday 10

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August Wednesday 11 1926

Drove up to Barkers in afternoon then Jack took Lou, Jean, and I up to Uncle Arts where we had supper about five and then we all went to Zenda Garden party in the Gray Dort. A ballgame before a wonderful programme give by a band, an orchestra, and 17 performers. Sleepy but an enjoyable ride home with Jean. Home at four o'clock just before a heavy rain started.

Thursday 12

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Friday 13

Boys entertained girls of U.F.Y.P.O at a meeting up home and the girls put on a real feed of pork & beans etc followed by dancing until 1.30. Had some wonderful dances with Jean and took Marie Taylor home with me.

August Saturday 14 1926

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Sunday 15

Had an enjoyable drive around the block with Jean when I went up to see her at night but was home early for a change.

Monday 16

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August Tuesday 17 1926

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Wednesday 18 Jimmie and I went up to Barkers at night and had a fine time playing "I doubt it" and listening to music. Several nice dances with Jean.

Thursday 19

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August Friday 20 1926

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Saturday 21

Drove to town at night but saw Jean for a few minutes only as they went home early. Saw Mr and Mrs Weir for first time since I left the U.S.A.

Sunday 22

Up at five sharp and was home and washed up by 12.45 so I went home with the gang for dinner, Weirs, Cowings, Skellings {not sure of spelling}, Moray's, Harley, Copley, and Bucks made a total of 27 for dinner and supper. Drove back to Bendermere to do chores and then home for tea and took Jean with me. Nice walk and drive afterwards with the other four.

August Monday 23 1926

All of us except "Katie" our cook slept in until quarter to six so I was late getting away to Paris. Mr and Mrs. Birley arrived home at noon from Leamington after a nice trip. Retired early at night after a busy day.

Tuesday 24

Carl and Clare, Johnny and Marge, Melb and Betty, Alice and Roscoe, Orval and Helen, and Jean and I attended a dance at Mohawk Park and had a wonderful time. I had some of the best dances I ever had. We drove the two Fords and I acted as chauffeur of the "sedan". Home at 1.10 A.M.

Wednesday 25

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August Thursday 26 1926

{blank} Friday 27

Up early in the morning and a busy day for me acting as truck driver when we shipped the Bendemere Guernseys to the Canadian National Exhibition. Best U.F.Y.P.O. meeting yet at McCrows when Mr. Nixon and Mr Davidson were the speakers.

Saturday 28 Had a nice time with Jean down town at night and we had a Guernsey milk shake at the Savoy also.

August Sunday 29 1926

Helen and Alice entertained Dan and Helen Milne, Jean and I to a splendid supper at home Very nice time and a ride home in their Ford sedan. Jimmie told the {illegible word} off for {illegible word}.

Monday 30 {blank}

Tuesday 31 {blank}

September Wednesday 1 1926

Carl brought Melb, margaret Deans, and Jean to Paris were I met them and we all went to hear the "Musical Eckardts" (Swiss Bell Ringers and Entertainers) and the "Strain Sisters" at the Capitol. Interesting programme and a ride home made it an enjoyable evening for me.

Thursday 2

A busy day for me collecting accounts of the month before on the milk route. Helped milk Geo. Telfers cows when we bought some milk from him.

Friday 3

Drove Telfer's Ford Sedan up after milk at Geo Telfers as Mr Telfer had truck away after two new grade Guernseys. Jimmie and I drove truck up to Barkers and then went with Jean and Dan in the Dodge to the Woodstock corn roast up home. Had a great time.

September Saturday 4 1926

Started to rain in the morning and continued nearly all day making it rather disagreeable. Alex came home at night to stay over week-end. Jimmie and I retired early at night as we were tired after the night before.

Sunday 5

{box drawn around entry for this date} Rather a wet day. Ethel Lackey and her sister Jessie and her boy friend were up home so I took Jean up home for tea with me in Dad's Ford. Had a very nice time and left for home early. The night of Sept 5 {and symbol?} 6 will never be forgotten by me as it was on that night that Jean made me the happiest boy on Earth when she promised to be my bride. Talk about a thrilling evening, it sure was one.

Monday 6

Felt great all day even if I was tired when night rolled around but "No Wonder, Why Shouldn't I feel good?" Traded jobs with Jimmie and spent the afternoon between the plough handles for the first time in ten months. Drove down after hens at Vanatter farm after supper.

September Tuesday 7 1926

{the writing on the left page appears to be cut off; unable to identify some missing words}

{A?} wonderful day for the Barker family's {annual?} expedition to the Canadian National Exhibition. Busy day at Bendemere, acting as truck driver {in?} afternoon. "Sheep Buyers" and {"White?} Washers" were here so we were {late?} getting through at night.

Wednesday 8

Another fine day. Up early and {made?} good time on milk route and was home by dinner time. Had a general clean up in dairy {in?} afternoon. Started to rain about {eight?} o'clock so retired early. Had {a?} short chat with Jean over phone at {noon?}.

Thursday 9

Started to rain early in the morning and rained until nearly noon then {it?} cleared up after dinner and turned {quite?} cold with a white frost at night. {Went?} to practice with Miss Easton {in?} her "Buick" but was home and {in?} bed shortly after ten o'clock.

September Friday 10 1926

Drove truck up to Geo Telfers after 4 bags of oats after dinner and then down after load of straw to Vanatter farm and got stuck in wet mud and straw near stack. Reception for Deans Cochrane but stayed home and retired early. Started on my 11th month at "Bendemere"

Saturday 11

Alex arrived in Paris at one o'clock so I drove truck up after feed and box. Helped unload Guernseys and also Gurney's Belgians. Drove truck to town at night and heard banjo players, singers, and magicians. Saw Jean for a minute and home at twelve o'clock.

Sunday 12

Light shower in morning when I was on the milk route. Jimmie and I had a sleep after we had washed bottles. Had a wonderful drive with "Jean" when we went up home and around the block. Home at {11.45?}.

September Monday 13 1926

Felt great after a good nights' sleep and with such a wonderful day. Alex went with me on latter part of milk route. Bobby Vanderlip started working at Bendemere. Drove Alex to town at night after his Chevrolet, in the truck.

Tuesday 14 Up at 5.15 A.M. Got load of milk ready for town, had my breakfast, got dressed and rode wheel up to Barkers. Five of us voted and then we motored to London Show in the Dodge. Dandy trip both ways and had a wonderful time with Jean. Helped milk and came home after Supper. Liberals won in Federal election by considerable majority.

Wednesday 15

Started to rain in morning and continued a share of the afternoon. Busy afternoon getting up steam and straightening out books. Found out that I lost my first vote of the day before when Smoke was elected by {155?} majority.

September Thursday 16 1926

Maybe it didnt rain early in the morning before daylight then it slackened up until about nine o'clock when it just poured down for an hour or more. Late getting through as Jimmie was threshing at Buchanans so went to roost right after supper.

Friday 17

Dandy warm night. Walked to Paris to Eleanors and then went to Party at May Apps in Jacks, Ford and had a very nice time. Very foggy coming home, chauffeur got lost and the "back seat driver" caused some excitement coming home. Wonderful ride home and maybe Jean didn't look sweet so how could I help loving her more than ever. U.F.Y.P.O Corn Roast at Leone Williams.

Saturday 18

Felt fine after the night before. Cleared up near noon and sun came out. Threshed rye stack at Vanatter farm and moved up here. Helped with milking at night and retired right after supper about 7.30.

September Sunday 19 1926

Slept in until six A.M. Busy day as I started chores as soon as I finished in the dairy. Drove Queen when I went up to see Jean after supper. A dandy warm moonlihgt September night and we sure had a lovely long drive together Home at 1.A.M.

Monday 20 A wonderful September day. Up at 4.45 and away early on milk route. Threshers were here all day but had a break down at milking time so I had lots of help to do milking after I had finished my work in the dairy. Some "queer" wrestles after supper and retired early.

Tuesday 21

Threshers finished up about four o'clock. Clipped cattle afterwards so we were late getting through milking. Alex and Mr. Telfer went to Caledonia after supper in truck after 3 new cattle. Arrived home 1 AM next morning. Wonderful night but didn't go up to the show.

September Wednesday 22 1926

Up at 4.20, away early and home from milk route at 10.10 and all washed up at 11.45. Helped take "Master" to show in big truck. Busy afternoon cleaning and showing cattle. We won every first except one even if we did lose Silver Cup. Loaded cattle in two trucks to go to Woodstock at night so it was 10 o'clock when we were finished.

Thursday 23

Felt rather tired after such a busy day, the day before. Rather a gloomy day as it rained in afternoon and just rolled down in torrents at night, raining at least 3 inches on level during the night. Still we slept in the tent.

Friday 24

A very damp wet miserable hot day raining practically all afternoon Slept in house with Bobbie at night as I wasn't feeling very well. Alex came home from Woodstock about ten o'clock with the first truck load of show cattle. Won 8 firsts, 1 second, 2 thirds and both championships at the fair.

September Saturday 2 1926

Another damp wet day but far different from the day before as it was a lot colder and finally cleared up near night. Lovely day for Galt Show? Alex made two trips to Woodstock to bring home balance of show cattle. Wrote to Evelyn at night.

Sunday 26

Up early and home and washed up by one o'clock. Attended Sunday School at the Mission for first time since I came to Bendemere. Drove up home for Supper after which Carl drove Jean and I to church where we heard a good sermon by Rev. Simm Edwards. Nice drive afterwards in the buggy and a feed of cake and watermelons.

Monday 27

Another fine day. Busy day on milk route. Boiler valve blew out in afternoon and I had quite a time acting as a mechanic. Late finishing at night as boys worked late and finished sowing wheat in field across road. School fair day for Keg Lane district.

September Tuesday 28 1926

A wonderful day. Practice at night but I didn't go as it was after eight when I got through supper so retired early.

Wednesday 29

Up at four, had breakfast at 5.20 and was home from milk route at 10.15. Had lunch and then acted as truck driver when Andy and I took load of sheep to Drumbo fair. Good show, nice day, and as usual a lovely time with "Jean".

Thursday 30

Another fine day. Helped clip two show heifers after dinner then had a very busy time washing about {275?} bottles. Attended practice for play at night but was home at 10.30 The end of a wonderful month.

October Friday 1 1926

October started off fine with a nice day. Professor Steckley was here judging Guernseys with his judging class after dinner. Silo fillers came about five o'clock and got started to work.

Saturday 2

An ideal Autumn day. Silo fillers were busy here all day but I went on with my own work just the same. Alex and I did nearly all the milking at night as Jimmie had a date at 6.30. In town at night hunting up a plow for the matches and saw Jean for a few minutes. My Dads birthday.

Sunday 3

Home from milk route about 12.15. Mrs Birly was away so four of us had a bachelor's dinner. Busy afternoon working in dairy and helping with chores at night Took Jean up home with me for a few minutes and then as it was such a fine night we had a real nice long drive around two blocks.

October Monday 4 1926

Alex and Mr Telfer left with the truck and trailer and four cattle for the National Dairy show. about five o'clock. Went up stairs to go to bed at quarter to eight but wasn't too tired to read Jean's diary, which she gave me last night before I went to sleep. A wonderful book. Heavy rain during night.

Tuesday 5

Up at five sharp and through peddling in good time but as I called at the barber's and jeweller's I didn't get home extra early. Took almost 60 bushels of wheat to Taylors in afternoon with "Dollie & King" when I got them shod at Nichols. got a Verity No. 21 plow at O'Neals' and brought it home with me. Play practice at night.

Wednesday 6

A fair day for Burford show. Just as I was finishing peddling I saw the Barkers going to the fair and how I wished I were going along with Jean. Rather tired at night so went to {roost?} at good time.

October Thursday 7 1926

An ideal October day. Saw Jean driving her Dodge when I was peddling on Banfield St. Mr. Telfer came home, sick, on the five o'clock train and went to bed. Attended practice at church and home and in bed at 11. P.M.

Friday 8

Bobbie and I went to U.F.Y.P.O. meeting at Will Telfer's with Andy and Phyllis in their car. Good crowd but I had some job keeping order as we were unable to secure a speaker. Received some real blessings from the girls, especially, when I asked them to discuss whether "a girl should milk or not" with the boys. Had a few nice dances with Jean and gave her my diary to read.

Saturday 9

A busy day on the milk route and in the dairy. A dandy warm day so I washed the milk wagon in the afternoon for the first time since before civic holiday. Didn't go to town at night but retired early instead.

October Sunday 10 1926

Mother and Dad and the girls were spending the week-end at Stoney Creek with George {Triell's?} so there wasn't anybody at home when Jean and I were up there for some clothes at night as the boys were attending Anniversary services at Princeton. However we had a nice long drive together and I was home early.

Monday 11

Saw Roscoe on his way over to practice plowing at Uncle Erns. Got ring at jewelry store and was very much pleased with it. Plowed with King and Queen for a few hours in the afternoon.

Tuesday 12

Roscoe and Dad went to Niagara Falls to the International Plowing Match. Took 60 bus. wheat into Taylors in afternoon with "Dollie and King" and got them shod at Nichols. Went up to H.C. O'Neal's to get a Verity No. 21 plow so was late getting home. Attended play rehearsal at night.

October Wednesday 13 1926

A wonderful day for the plowing match Roscoe won first in the amateur class in stubble against 38 competitors. The prize was a $50.00 gold piece. Later his land was judged the fourth best plowed land in stubble for which he received a silver cup.

Thursday 14

Saw Jean for a few minutes in front of Dr. Munro's and she told me Dan was to have an operation. Roscoe won third in the open class in sod plowing and defeated Norm. McLeod. Attended play rehearsal at night.

Friday 15

Alex arrived home from the National Dairy Show, Detroit about five o'clock at night and told us of some of his experiences in the U.S.A. Mother and Carl went to the plowing match with Deans'. Dan had his operation in the morning.

October Saturday 16 1926

Four of us went to town in the "Chevie" at night but came home early. Wet afternoon when Roscoe came down and coached me on plowing in sod field on Vanatter farm.

Sunday 17

Sidney, Jimmie, and I went up to the hospital in the afternoon to Dan for a few minutes. Rather late getting up the road at night but Jean and I had a nice time up home and the drive there and back. Showed Jean her ring and tried it on and it fit perfectly.

Monday 18

Alex took Bobbie home at night while Jimmie and I drove the truck up home after the plows however we were back early after Jimmie got his dose of M.Y.S. {illegible - life?}

October Tuesday 19 1926

Up and around early and off to Cainsville to the plowing match. Got along fine even if my team weren't very good at the start. Won 1st and best finish when I defeated third prize amateur at provincial. Roscoe won 2nd and prize for best plow team. Carl won 3rd, John Deans got first and best fiinish. Home at seven and attended practice after supper. Had a chat with Jean during practice over the phone.

Wednesday 20

A busy day on milk route answering all the ladies quesstions. Rather a disagreeable afternoon as it snowed. The play "Robert and Mary" went off O.K. and we had a fair crowd even if the weather wasn't very nice. Lunch afterwards and home at 11.20.

Thursday 21

Up early and off to Blenheim plowing match at Wolverton. Won first in amateur class and beat crown. Roscoe won 2nd and best finish and best {Gregyebask?}. Carl won 4th and Johnnie Deans 3rd in 19 and under class. Had supper up home and travel Dad's car to Edgars garage. Called up Jean and told her the results.

October Friday 22 1926

A wet rainy morning but we started for N. Dumfries plowing match about eight thinking it would clear up. Stopped at Halls and found out match was postponed until next week. Went to Ayr with Jack and got two prizes of day before, then came home and went to work. Paynes were here at night but I retired at 9.30.

Saturday 23

Back to my old job again, peddling milk, and was through in good time so got a hair cut before I came home. Busy day cleaning up in the dairy. The rest of the gang went to town at night but I stayed home, had a chat with Jean on the phone and went to roost early.

Sunday 24

It rained all morning so that it was rather disagreeable for me peddling milk. Home at 12.45; had dinner then drove up home and went after Jean then got Dad, Mother and the girls and went up to Uncle Art's to celebrate Jean's birthday which is to-morrow. Presented Jean with her engagement ring and she was delighted with it. {Appears to be more writing at bottom of page but it is cut off.}

October Monday 25 1926

Rather a damp wet morning but I got the milk peddled in fairly good time and called at the hospital to see Dan on the way home. Jean's 25th birthday and although I wasn't with her my heart was. We celebrated it when Jimmie lit the match. Oh. Boy!!

Tuesday 26

A busy day on the milk route and didn't get home until after one. Drove the truck up after the cream at night then when I came back, Alex, Roscoe, and I went to town in the "Chevie" got a new battery and went up home after the potato {books?}.

Wednesday 27

An ideal Autumn day The men started to dig the potatoes on Bendemere Farm and found that there were quite a few rotten ones. Gave my hand a bad gash when cracked bottle broke on the steam {truck?}.

October Thursday 28 1926

Another fine day. The men finished digging the "spuds" Roscoe and I drove truck to Boys Class Banquet in the mission. Lots to eat and a very pleasant evening for us. Home at 10.20.

Friday 29

A dandy day for the N. Dumfries plowing match. Long but speedy ride in truck when we went out of our road on way there. Thirty teams plowed so we had lots of opposition. John Deans got 4th, Roscoe 3rd, and Carl and I had seven {illegible word} class. I got $10 00/100 cash for second prize and I expect Carl would get fifth. Went as an old lady to U.F.Y.P.O. masquerade at Cochranes. Great success. Had some swell dances with Jean and a nice time going and coming even if I was rather tired.

Saturday 30

Back on milk route again until I don't know how long and had a busy time getting squared around again. Didn't go to town but retired at 9.30.

October Sunday 31 1926

A nice bright but cool fall day. Jimmie helped me wash the bottles after dinner then I drove "Dollie" up to Barkers. Watched Jean milk, helped wipe the dishes after supper, and then we had another enoyable drive around the block and Jean told me a secret.

November Monday 1

Started November off by putting in a real busy day at my usual work. Worked at my books after supper at night so didn't get to bed until ten o'clock.

Tuesday 2

Finished work on my statements in afternoon. At night Roscoe, Alex and I went down to Paynes to listen to the radio. Had a feed of grapes, and chocolates and got warmed up in good shape by their new stove.

November Wednesday 3 1926

Had a real nice time when I spent the first week night in ages at Jeans and took Roscoe with me. Threshers were there but we made some candy in the kitchen and I had a few nice dances with Jean. Came home in forty-five minutes as we drove "King" and Roscoe was at the wheel while I slept.

Thursday 4

A lovely fall day. Alex went up around Tillsonburg after a new Guernsey heifer and some sheep in the truck and didn't get back until about six o'clock. Lloyd Ross helped me wash up in the afternoon so I got through in good time and helped milk four cows at night. Gave "Dollie" a real cleaning at night.

Friday 5

Lloyd helped me peddle milk so I was home in time to eat a bachelor's dinner with Roscoe, Tom, and Alex as the rest of the bunch were away for dinner. Happier than ever after being engaged to "my Bonnie Jean" for two whole months.

November Saturday 6 1926

Another ideal Autumn day. Telfers came down with their team and helped the boys finish drawing in the mangals while I was busy, as usual in the dairy. Took a "dip" at night and retired early.

Sunday 7

A lovely November day. I was left alone to wash the bottles so had just got started to wash when Arts came outs after me from church. However they helped me so we were all through in an hour's time and up home for dinner at 2.15. Big feed and Roscoe and I came back early for chores and then attended the evening re-opening services at St. Pauls United Church which certainly looked wonderful. Heard a very clever violinist "Will Andrew" of Hamilton. A real Thanksgiving Sunday for me which I finished it up perfectly with a drive home from church with Jean.

Monday 8

A beautiful Thanksgiving Day and I have a lot to be thankful for this year but the greatest of all things is that I am engaged to a girl like "Jean'. A legal holiday but I did my work up just the same as usual.

November Tuesday 9 1926

A wet disagreeable day but it cleared up after dinner so the boys didn't have to drive the cattle to the Junction through the rain when they shipped them to the Royal Winter Fair, Toronto. Completed my first year on Bendemere Farm.

Wednesday 10

A dandy fall day. Katie Birley had a rough ride home from town with me in the milk wagon as they were grading the road out to the Golf Links in the morning. Wished I was going up to see Jean but went to bed early looking forward to the next night.

Thursday 11

A cold day and I had a cool drive when I went up to see Jean at night but I was well repaid for doing so as I had a nice time listening to the radio and a dandy lunch before I started homeward. Memories of a year ago when I spent the day at Guelph Fair with Jean.

November Friday 12 1926

Mr Telfer motored home from Toronto at night and informed us that in the first day's judging at the Royal, "Bendemere Pencoyd" had won first for Junior Bull calf, Junior championship, and was later awarded reserve grand championship. Pretty good for an eight month's old calf. We also won 2 seconds, one third and 3 fifths.

Saturday 13

"Bendemere Pencoyds" picture appeared in the "Globe". Bendemere Guernseys won another second, two 5th prizes and a 7th prize at the Royal. Late getting through at night but Tom, Roscoe, and I motored to town with "Queen" and visited the barber shop. Home around eleven.

Sunday 14

Busy day for me when I worked all day and milked 5 cows at night. Roscoe and I went up {Keghane?} at night. He went up home and I called for Jean and we had a dandy drive around the block before we called in home for a few minutes.

November Monday 15 1926

A wonderful morning just like Spring but it drizzled some during the afternoon and later rained quite hard after dark and during the night. Roscoe, Alex and I drove up to Birleys at night.

Tuesday 16

A fair day for the Barker family's trip to the Royal and when I met them on Banfield St in the morning, how I wished I hade been going along with Jean. U.F.Y.P.O held an interesting meeting in Community Hall when Mr. Telfer put on some interesting moving pictures besides a violin solo by Florence Can, Club paper, reading by Edna Jarvis, piano duet by Misses Wells & Holmes making it one of our best meetings.

Wednesday 17

Roscoe and I drove truck up to Birleys at night to get some milk. Stayed for a while and "Katie" showed us "Billie's" wedding garments and played the wedding music for us.

November Thursday 18 1926

Roscoe went up to Cochranes at night when I went up to spend the evening at Jean's. Nice time listening to the radio etc. Went to sleep going up side-road and almost left Roscoe when I got past McCrows before I woke up.

Friday 19

A dandy moonlight night. Went up river road and around by Guthries when we went up to Birleys in the truck at night. Plowed in afternoon while Jimmie washed bottles.

Saturday 20

Helped Roscoe plow again in afternoon Alex came home from Toronto in morning and they all went to the wedding in the afternoon and saw "Billie" married. Bad cold so stayed home and went to roost at night.

November Sunday 21 1926

Slept in until 6.45 but made things hum when I did get up. Home from milk route just 4 hours and 45 minutes from the time I left. Drove around by Telfers after Jean in afternoon and took her home in the snowstorm. Helped her milk and then after supper, we drove up home for a while. Home at 12.35 after a fast ride and the end of an enjoyable day.

Monday 22

Busy morning getting squared up and milk peddled after being away afternoon before Streets very icy but Dollie stood up in spite of all her struggling. Left her at shop and finished route with truck. Didn't get home with her until after six when I went for her in afternoon.

Tuesday 23

Late getting away in morning but made good time as Dollie didn't slip a bit. Real busy day cleaning up in the dairy after not having washed the bottles for four days. Retired early at night.

November Wednesday 24 1926

Very mild in the morning but turned real cold before night. Helped Roscoe load up load of turnips after I had the bottles washed. Had a chat with Jean at night and retired at 9.30. Deposited $37.00 in bank.

Thursday 25

Did my work in dairy up after Supper, then got ready and walked up to Laughlins where I met Carl and rode home with him to spend the night so I would be ready to go to Guelph in the morning.

Friday 26

Not a very pleasant morning even if it wasn't very cold. Took Jean over to Kelly's in Dads car then we went to Guelph with Ward and Wilma in the Star in 65 minutes. Interesting time at Conference at Guelph. Attended U.F.Y.P.O. dance at Williams on way home. A wonderful day with Jean.

November Saturday 27 1926

A very cold frosty day. Made good time on milk route even if I didn't get a very early start. Got load of milk ready after supper, had a swim, and went to toost at ten o'clock.

Sunday 28

Had a queer night's sleep when I didn't get up until seven o'clock. Jimmie helped me wash up when I came home so it was 3.30 when we finished dinner. Worked at my books until five and then started at chores. Had a real nice drive with Jean up home after Roscoe. Got some cider and then had a dandy lunch after a spirited debate when we went down the side road.

Monday 29

A dandy mild day and one would have thought Spring had arrived. Busy day collecting some accounts and working in the dairy. {Ames?} and the Paris Creamery raised the price of milk from 10 to 12 cents per quart.

November Tuesday 30 1926

An ideal Autumn day even if it was a little cloudy. Away on the milk route early but didn't get back until about one as I was busy collecting accounts. Fixed up November statements at night and retired early.

December Wednesday 1

A very cold frosty day for the Provincial election when the O.T.A. and Gov't Control were the chief issues before the people. 75 Gov't Control members were elected when the Ferguson Gov't swept the province. However I didn't lose my vote as H.C. Nixon was elected by a majority of 762. Dad came down to meet when I walked up home to go to Guelph the next day. Had an interesting chat with my parents before retiring.

Thursday 2

A dandy clear bright cold day for our trip to Guelph. Walked down to Barkers, then hurt my hand cranking the Dodge when we had difficulty in getting it to start. Had a fine trip to Guelph and back with Jean, the fair was interesting and Jean had some good news for me when we had a real chat together. Chicken supper when we got home. {Symes?} did the chores had some wonderful dances with Jean, then they drove {unclear word} home ending a perfect day.

December Friday 3 1926

Heard that I was married and received several congratulations from different customers on the milk route after being absent the day before.

Saturday 4

Didn't freeze to death on the milk route even if it was a cold frosty day. Got my load of milk ready after Supper, Roscoe cut my hair and I retired early.

Sunday 5

A very stormy and blustery morning. Off to town early, home and washed up by two. Took Jean up home for tea after I watched her milk. Nice time and an interesting chat with Dad and Mother before we came home. They had no objections to us getting married in the Spring so maybe I wasn't happy as Jean also had some good news for me.

December Monday 6 1926

A cold bright sunny day. Heavy snowfall of the day before made it pretty heavy going for "Dollie" and I but what did I care when I was happy with the thoughts of completing my term as an M.P. and being a married man in the Spring.

Tuesday 7

Another fine day and a little milder but not quite so bright. Spend a busy day on the milk route and working in the dairy the remainder of the day.

Wednesday 8

A mild morning and with lots of ice it was pretty slippery. Took King and Queen on newly painted milk sleigh for first time and made good time. At night Roscoe, Jimmie, and I drove up to Barkers and clipped their six cows so it would be easier for Jean to milk them. Dandy feed of ice cream etc when we finished after 12 P.M.

December Thursday 9 1926

Felt rather tired after working late the night before so didn't get up very early in the morning so naturally I had to step some to get my work done by supper time.

Friday 10

Roscoe and I drove to U.F.Y.P.O. meeting in Maus School. Late getting started as usual this time due to the president. Part of the programme failed to show up but we had an enjoyable evening and a box social afterwards. Jean was there and Jack brought me home to Bendemere with the girls in his Ford. Gave my report of the conference at Guelph.

Saturday 11

Wash day and as usual a busy one for me. Mrs Birley went away in afternoon so five of us batched it for supper and maybe we didn't have a queer feed of beans follwed by stunts in our "gym". Capped up bottles ready for Sunday, had a swim and retired at eleven o'clock.

December Sunday 12 1926

Roscoe and I drove up Keg Lane at night and I got Jean and took her up home with me. Business conversation with Mother and Dad after the rest had gone to bed. It wouldn't have semed like Sunday at all if I hadn't been able to spend a few pleasant minutes with Jean, we had such a busy day at Bendemere.

Monday 13

A busy Monday collecting bottles and tickets on the milk rout {wording fades out for "route"} and a busy afternoon washing them and cleaning up in the dairy. Felt pretty tired at night so retired at eight o'clock.

Tuesday 14

Carl came down in afternoon to take Roscoe's place as he went to Toronto in the afternoon to attend U.F.Y.P.O. convention. Carl went to practise at night so it was late when I got the horses fixed up for the night.

December Wednesday 15 1926

A very cold wintry day with a strong westerly wind blowing. Thought I would freeze on milk route but managed to arrive home in a very much alive but chilly condition. Alex went to Toronto in morning to attend a short course there.

Thursday 16

Another day just as cold as its mate the day before. Roscoe didn't come home from Toronto as we expected but we kept things going just the same.

Friday 17

A clear bright frosty day. Attended Mission Entertainment in the Community Hall, heard a good programme and officiated as Santa Claus. Alex and Roscoe came home and rode out to Bendemere with me.

December Saturday 18 1926

Lloyd Ross and Art Wilson were with me on the milk route so I was home in pretty good time even if I didn't get a very early start. Alex went to town at night but the rest of us stayed home and went to roost early.

Sunday 19

Home from milk route in good time, got ready, had my dinner and drove up to see Jean. Had a pleasant hike down to the house over the hill together but couldn't get in. Got weighed when we came back then later I helped Jean milk and it was then I agreed to work for Mr. Barker and heard the conditions when I had a short talk with him. Heard Atwater-Kent radio hour for a while then we drove up home for a while even if it was snowing quite hard. A wonderful and a happy day for me.

Monday 20

Up in good time but didn't get home very early as I had a real busy day on the milk route. Told Alex I was going to quit peddling milk also when and why. Addressed some {word over-written} Christmas cards at night and retired at 10 P.M.

December Tuesday 21 1926

A dandy bright mild day. Clarence Lee moved here with his outfit right after dinner and started putting the straw stack and blowing it into the barn. Roscoe cut my hair after we put the horses to bed so it was ten bells when I hit the hay.

Wednesday 22

Straw cutters were at Bendemere all day so that it was a busy one for everybody. Alex got hit on the head with the pipes when they fell and it nearly knocked him out.

Thursday 23

Finished washing my bottles early in afternoon then drove up to help Jean milk and had tea there. After we had washed the dishes "Dollie" took Lou Jean, and I to the Canning Xmas Concert which was great. "Santa Claus" presented me with a mysterious parcel. I also received four Xmas boxes on the milk route.

December Friday 24 1926

Had a busy day selling extra cream and milk for Christmas and received two Xmas boxes on milk route. At night Tom, Jimmie, Roscoe, and I did some Christmas shopping when we drove "Dollie" to town. Home about twelve o'clock.

Saturday 25

First Xmas parcel I opened contained a dandy sweater and a snap of Jean from Jean. Home from town at 11.30. Roscoe helped me wash up in the dairy and we drove the truck up home for dinner. Had a queer feed and came back early to milk then went back up again for Supper. There were 26 of us for tea and we had a great time. Some wonderful dances with Jean. Took nurses to car on our way home. "Santa Claus" was very good to me.

Sunday 26

A very quiet morning in Paris. After I had the bottles washed in afternoon I drove up to Jeans, helped her milk, and had a feed of oysters afterwards. Finished the best Christmas I ever had with my head snuggled up in Jeans lap in front of the fire place. Eleanor and Melville came home with me.

December Monday 27 1926

Rather a busy day getting things squared around after the holiday. A lonely time for me after spending such a nice time with Jean the two days previous. Had a real sleep at night. Bade Jimmie farewell when he left Bendemere and sailed away to Toronto.

Tuesday 28

Roscoe and I attended Marjorie McCrows dance at night. McKinnons Orchestra furnished the music but there was such a crowd there one could hardly hear the music let alone find room to dance. However I had a few nice dances with Jean and the best part of all was the drive home together in the wee small hours. Rolled into bed at almost five o'clock after driving Roscoe and Eileen home.

Wednesday 29

Felt fine after only a little over an hours sleep in the morning when we initiated our new bed room. Eleanor Edwards called up and invited me to a party on Thursday night after I had gone to dreamland at 8.40 P.M.

December Thursday 30 1926

A lovely day with a little lower temperature. Walked into Eleanors at night. Barkers, Jack, and {Wloharts?} were there and I had a very nice time playing cards etc. Short ride in the Dodge with Jean and was home and in bed at 12.30.

Friday 31

Finished up 1926 in front of Barkers' fire place with my head resting snugly in the lap of the only girl I really ever loved. Such an appropriate ending with a real girl after a wonderful year together.

The year 1926 has been a wonderful year for me because it was in this year that I found I really loved Jean and Jean only, became engaged to her, presented her with her engagement ring for her birthday, and later arranged our wedding day for March 3rd, 1926. Now I know what is definitely before me and here's hoping for a wonderful 1927.

MEMORANDA

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