James Bremner Jr. Diary, 1881

Title

James Bremner Jr. Diary, 1881

Creator

James Bremner Jr.

Source

Courtesy of Archival and Special Collections, University of Guelph

Date

1881

Language

English

Coverage

19th Century, Grey County, Sullivan Township, Ontario

Date Created

January 1, 1881

Medium

Scanned Manuscript

Transcription

Canadian Scribbling Diary For 1881. Contains Almanac, Postal, and other Canadian Information.


Toronto: Published by Brown Brother, Manufacturing Stationers.

1881

{table of days in all 12 months}

1882

{table of days in January-April}

XRI MS A362 {written in pencil}

Canadian Scribbling Diary For 1881. Contains Almanac, Postal, and other Canadian Information.

Toronto: Published By Brown Brothers, Manufacturing Stationers.

RATES OF POSTAGE.

Canada Post Card................ One Cent.

Canada Post Card for U. S....... " "

On Letters Per Half Ounce.

To any part of Dominion of Canada or United States, 3 cents-must be prepaid. " Newfoundland, 5 cents-must be prepaid. All main matter (excepting samples of Merchandise) to and from the United States, is the same as to any part of Canada, and must be prepaid. Great Britain and Ireland, by Canadian or New York Mail Steamers, 5 cents.

Newspapers and Periodicals.

Newspapers and Periodicals, less than one oz. each, posted singly, prepaid. 1/2 cent each ; if under 4 ozs. 1 cent. Printed and published in Canada, and posted from Office of Publication or News Agency, to regular Subscribers or News Agents, for each 1 lb. or fraction of 1 lb., 1 cent prepaid. Posted singly to Great Britain and Ireland, 2 cents per 4 oz., prepaid.

Books, Circulars, Documents, Policies. &c.

For each 4 ozs., or fraction of 4 ozs., 1 cent, prepaid, to be open at both ends.

Commercial Paper, Documents, &c.

To United Kingdom, 5 cts. for first 2 ozs. ; 1 ct for each additional 2 ozs., or fraction thereof.

Parcel Post.

Not to exceed 5 lbs. to any part of Canada, 6 cts. per 4 ozs. ; 12 cts. for 8 ozs., and 6 cts. for each additional 4 ozs.

Pattern and Sample Post.

Canada-must be prepaid by postage stamps at the rate of one cent per 4 ozs. To United States, not exceeding 1/2 lb., 10 cts.

Terms and Courts.

Hilary, 1st Monday in February to Saturday of ensuing week.

Easter, 3rd Monday in May to Saturday of 2nd week thereafter.

Trinity, 1st Monday in Aug. after 21st of said month to the Saturday of the following week, except when dispensed with in Easter Term.

Michaelmas, 3rd Monday in November to Saturday of 2nd week thereafter.

One Judge of each of the Courts is to sit in open Court every week, as well in as out of term, except during vacation. One Judge may sit for both Courts of Common Law.

County Court Terms are four, commencing respectively on the 1st Monday in January, April, July and October, except in York, when they commence on the 1st Monday in January and April, and the 2nd Monday in June and October in each year, all ending on Saturday of same week.

Surrogate Court Terms commence 1st Monday in January, April, July adn October, and ends on same week, except in York, wehre Terms commence first Monday in January and April, and 2nd Monday in June and October, and end on Tuesday of same week.

Assizes - Twice in each year in every county or union of counties in ONtario, between Hilary and Easter Terms, and between 21st of August and Michaelmas Term. In the County of York there are two additional Courts, one in the vacation between Easter Term and the 1st of July, and the other in th evacation between Michaelmas and Hilary Terms, and in the County of Wentworth there is one additional between Michaelmas and Hilary Terms.

Sittings of Courts of Assize may be held separate and apart from the Courts of Oyer and Terminer, and either on same or different day, and sittings may be held in any County for trial without Jury, whenever directed by the Coruts.

County Courts. - Sittings commence on 2nd Tuesday in June and December, except in York, where there are four, commencing respectively on the 1st Tuesday in March and December, and 2nd Tuesday in May and September. Except in York, there shall be sittings for trial, without Jury, on 1st Monday in April and October in each year. In all Counties, Judges may hold such additional Courts as they may deem fit for trial of cases, without Jury.

General Sessions are held at same time as the several County Courts.

The County Judge's Criminal Courts sits from time to time for trial of prisoners out of SEssions and without Jury.

Heir, Devisee adn Assignee Commissioners sit on 1st Monday in January and July, and on the 13 days next ensuing the said days respectively, Sundays and Holidays excepted.

Court of Chancery. - A Judge sits in Corut almost daily for transaction of business. Hearing and examination of witnesses are at such times and places as are appointed by the Court.

Court of Appeal sits at Toronto five times in every year, commencing on the 2nd Tuesday in January, the 1st Tuesday in March, the 2nd Tuesday in May, the 1st Tuesday in September, and the 2nd Tuesday in November.

Supreme Court sits in Ottawa 3rd Tuesday in February, 1st Tuesday in May, 4th Tuesday in October.

Exchequer Corut at any tiem and palce appointed by rule of Court.

Long Vacation from 1st July to 21st August, except in the Court of Appeal, where it ends 31st August.

FIXED AND MOVABLE FESTIVALS, ETC.

Epiphany ............................... Jan. 6

Septuagesima Sunday .................... Feb. 13

Qinquagesima, Shrove Sunday ............ " 27

St. David .............................. Mar. 1

Ash Wednesday .......................... " 2

Quadragesima. 1st Sunday in Lent ....... " 6

St. Patrick ............................ " 17

Annunciation, Lady Day ................. " 25

Palm Sunday ............................ April 10

Good Friday ............................ " 15

Easter Sunday .......................... " 17

St. George ............................. " 23

Low Sunday ............................. " 24

Rogation Sunday ........................ May 22

Queen Victoria's Birthday .............. " 24

Ascension Day, Holy Tuesday ............ " 26

Pentecost, Whit Sunday ................. June 5

Trinity Sunday ......................... " 12

Corpus Christi ......................... " 16

Accession of Queen Victoria ............ " 20

Proclamation of Queen Victoria ......... " 21

Midsummer Day, St. John Baptist ........ " 24

Dominion Day ........................... July 1

Michaelmas Day ......................... Sept. 29

Birth of Prince of Wales ............... Nov. 9

1st Sunday in Advent ................... " 27

St. Andrew ............................. " 30

St. Thomas ............................. Dec. 21

Christmas Day .......................... " 25

BANK HOLIDAYS.

ONTARIO. NEW BRUNSWICK AND NOVA SCOTIA. - New Year's Day; Good Friday; Queen's Birthday; Dominion Day; Christmas Day.

QUEBEC. - New Year's Day; Epiphany; Annunciation; Good Friday; Ascension; Corpus Christi; St. Peter's and St. Paul's; All Saints; Conception; Christmas Day; Queen's Birthday, and Dominion Day.

Also throughout the Dominion any day appointed by Proclamation for a General Fast or Thanksgiving.

TABLE OF STAMP DUTIES.

Stamps required on Notes, Drafts, or Bills fo Exchange, executed singly :

For $25 .............................. 1 cent.

"  $50 and over $25 ................. 2   "
"  $100 and over $50 ................ 3   "
"  each fraction over $100 .......... 3   "

On Drafts or Bills of Exchange in duplicate:

For ...................... $100 2 cents.

" each fractional part of $100 2   "

On Drafts or Bills of exchange in more parts than two:

For ...................... $100 1 cent.

For each fractional part of $100 1 cent.

LIST OF SUNDAYS IN 1881.

January ............ 2 - 9 - 16 - 23 - 30

February ........... 6 - 13 - 20 - 27

March .............. 6 - 13 - 20 - 27

April .............. 3 - 10 - 17- 24

May ................ 1 - 8 - 15 - 22 - 29

June ............... 5 - 12 - 19 - 26

July ............... 3 - 10 - 17 - 24 - 31

August ............. 7 - 14 -21 - 28

September .......... 4 - 11 - 18 - 25

October ............ 2 - 9 - 16 - 23 - 30

November ........... 6 - 13 - 20 - 27

December ........... 4 - 11 - 18 - 25

1881. -1st Month. 31 Days. January.

Another year with all hopes and fears,

Has sunk into the deep abyss of time;

And on the threshold of the new we stand,

Like travellers to a strange and distant time.

Hope smiling beckons, bidding us take courage;

Faith points to heaven where God and angels dwell,

Assuring us that all our untried future

Is known to him who "doeth all things well."

From the Rose of Cheriton

The autumn day was closing, cool and dry;

The sun was setting in a cloudless sky

Flinging around him as he sank to rest,

A crimson glory flushing east and west.

The quiet landscape caught his bright farewell,

Ere the deep shadows of the evening fell.


The gliding river, and the broken sedge,

The pollard willows by the waters edge

Smiled for a moment in the passing gleam

Then sighed the sedge and darker flowed the stream;

While cottage windows flashed into a blaze,

And meadow pathways lay in purple haze;


A sudden glory touched the whirling mill

More crimson glowed the heather on the hill

And starting up beneath the pinewood shade

A moment, stood a golden colonnade;

Then dropped the sun, the vision died away

And twilight followed in her sober grey.


1. Saturday. [1-364] New Years Day.-Bank Holiday

It only comes once a year and the cattle have to be fed all the same. So have we & a new year day dinner too; whither it be beef steak & plum pudding or neeps {turnips} & neep brose. Last night & this morning or last year & this year we (that is Mr W. Morrison, Elsie Annie, Belle, Willie & I ) were waiting for the last moments of 1880 and as it neared its end we bade it farewell and welcomed the new by singing together the II Paraphrase. Father, Elsie & W. Morrison were at Uncle W. Henderson's. Willie took them up & I took them home. Miss Belle gave me one of E.P.Roe's works, What could she do, as xmas box So I have been enjoying it today

2. Sunday. [2-363]

Attended Divine worship in Chalmers Church Keady The Rev. Mr. Currie preached from the text Is it well with the II Kings 4 & 26"

JANUARY.-IST MONTH. 1881.

3. MONDAY. [3-362] County Court Term Begins.

At Owen Sound with Miss Bella as she is leaving with the morning train for Uxbridge to study at the High School there. We had Mr W. Morrison & Miss Annie along so we had a good time. We visited the new High School of Owen Sound which is a magnificent building having all the latest improvements in ventilation & heating. We inscribed our names on the topmost tower. Expenses, 50c = Dinner. 40 for this book $1 for Tribune for last year. 15c for sundries. $2.05) Evening clear & calm with intense frost.

4. TUESDAY. [4-361]

Fed cattle then took in part of straw stack for litter for horses Then hitched up single sleigh and went to Mr. Carr's on Church Business Evening. Jack & Celia Morrison came up from Bentinck so we went to Uncle Haverson's with sleigh load. Had a very pleasant evening. Got home two hours a-yout the wee short hour a yout the twall.

5. WEDNESDAY. [5-360]

Took in a barrel of potatoes they are keeping very well. John, William & Celly went home today. Afternoon Put some more carbolic acid on the cow that has lice. Then splitting wood. This was a very beautiful day such as we would like for winter

6. THURSDAY. [6-359]

The Annual Meeting of the Presbyterian Congregation of Keady was held today. I being Secretary of Managers had to get books ready Afternoon at meeting. Paid James Jackson $9 for Blacksmith work horse shoeing amounts to 5.50

7. FRIDAY. [7-358]

For three weeks back I have done no work but chores Sleigh riding for pleasure & sometimes on business has taken up the time. Well the bow that is always bent looses it elasticity sometime. One should have a few holidays and better now than in summer time. Today I commenced work. Thrashing peas with horses 3 floors Evening reading Scotts poems

8. SATURDAY. [8-357]

Cloudy & cold. Thrashed 2 floors forenoon After cleaned up, had 13 bus. Willie & I took the pea straw down to old barn for sheep feed. Two loads on sleigh box. Globe & Canada Presbyterian did not come to hand today so we miss them now. Alette piece of Scott will do instead

9. SUNDAY. [9-356]

At the Keady Presbyterian Church. The Rev Mr. Currie preached from the texts Verily I say unto you that one of you shall betray me Matt 26 - 21st Jesus said unto him Verily I say unto thee That this night before the cock crow thou shalt deny me thrice. Matt 26.34th

1881. - 1ST MONTH. 31 DAYS. JANUARY.

10. MONDAY. [10-355]

Thrashing peas 4 floors took all day along with feeding Cattle. Had a call of Wesley Oliver, got the loan of 3 bags. Evening at the meeting of the Young Peoples Christian Association had a fine meeting. We are to have a debate next night. Subject Resolved that it is proper to have religious meetings at night. I am on the negative side what am I to say.

11. TUESDAY. [11-354]

Preparing logs for a days sawing to Mr Currie in D. Gilchrists bush. There were 9 or 10 at the bee got 10 logs on skid way at night. Fine day and a beautiful moonlight night. The Prayer meeting was tonight and a good many were out.

12. WEDNESDAY. [12-353]

Bee again. We did not get much done in forenoon as machine took good while to set. Cut well afternoon and there were plenty of teams so there are only 2 loads in the bush now. Stormy tonight.

13. THURSDAY. [13-352]

Taking in turnips 2 loads, 1 was frozen. They have been frozen ever since the first snowstorm, one side of pit. The winter came on so severe and suddenly that they were only covered with straw. There are 6 loads in the pit yet. Afternoon Cleaned up peas that I thrashed on Monday 10 bus. Cleaned up all we have thrashed 8 bags. Will thrash more tomw {tomorrow}

14. FRIDAY. [14-351]

Thrashing peas got 3 floors thrashed in forenoon afternoon Took a load of Amber Cane home from S. Halls shop he having failed to make it into molasses. Cleaned up 4 bags peas after supper. I thrashed 12 bags today. We are going to O.S tomorrow with 12 bags. Uncle, Aunt & Elsie Haverson & Aunt Mary were here today. Very cold day

15. SATURDAY. [15-350]

At O. Sound got 61 c per bus & had 30 40/60 bus $18.75. Market fees 10 Dinner 25. School Books & Postage 1.45 = 1.80. Paid A. Foster for boots $4.40. Thats the way the money goes. Take care of the cents & the Dollars will take care of themselves. O.H. Rather a cold gray day.

16. SUNDAY. [16-349]

Attended Divine Service in Presbyterian Church Keady Rev. H. Currie preached from the text For they know not what they do Luke 23 & 34.

JANUARY. - 1ST MONTH. 1881.

17. MONDAY. [17-348]

Took in wheat straw for bedding horses & other chores. Afternoon thrashed 2 floors of peas. Evening at Y.P.C.A meeting. The debate came off two speakers on each side. The two first speeches were Cast. The Leaders speech on the negative had all the arguments in it I could think of so I had little to say. Splendid moonlight.

18. TUESDAY. [18-347]

Helping Donald Gilchrist to saw. The Machine wrought well and cut a big heap. Father Elsie & Rob were at Uncle Haversons today they had single sleigh. Fine sunny day.

19. WEDNESDAY. [19-346]

Thrashing Peas 2 floors forenoon. Took little pig to Deven's boar. Thrashed 1 floor after I came home. This morning the bush was all clad with hoar frost, and at sun rise looked well. Strange that its locks should have grown grey in one night, but sols slant ray soon took it all away.

20. THURSDAY. [20-345]

Thrashed two floors peas they were rather tough today as there was little frost Afternoon cleaned up had good heap but did not measure into bin as I had to go to Devin's for pig. Had good sleigh ride there & back. Wrote F Cathrae Bermuda evening. W.A. Gerolamy left wheel turnip cutter on trial. Price $20. One year free after that interest @ 7 percent time paid.

21. FRIDAY. [21-344]

Went to Aunt Mary's to draw home wood for her. Uncle George & Cousin Bill were there too. We took home 21 loads Fine day afternoon rather stormy wind blowing from North East.

22. SATURDAY. [22-343]

Measured peas into bin 18 1/2 bus got 1 floor thrashed before dinner. Afternoon took in 2 loads turnips 1 frozen & the other a good load. Stormy day wind still blowing from North East.

23. SUNDAY. (23-342)

Attend Divine Service in Chalmers Church Keady. The Rev H. Currie preached from the text Thus saith the Lord Stand ye in the ways & see & ask for the old paths, where is the good way and walk there in and ye shall find rest for your souls. Jeremiah 6 & 16

1881. 31 DAYS JANUARY.

24. MONDAY (24-341) Thrashing peas 4 floors took all day. I think I will finish them tomorrow. Very cold day & snow falling scarcly. Evening at Y.P.C.A had pleasant meeting.


25. TUESDAY (25-340) Thrashing peas 4 floors. There is that many left that I will have to thrash them with the flail & so few that I cannot thrash them with the horses. So they cannot be a big job now. Blowy day but not so cold as yesterday.


26. WEDNESDAY (26-339) Very Stormy day. I finished the peas with flail and cleaned up floor. Father & I put them through twice & baged them up 9 bags or about 23 bushels. We took 7 bus out of bin so as to make a load. Left 10 bus for feed and purpose buying seed. Got notice to pay note of $49 for cow at Merchants Bank O.S. on 31st Jan. The Farmer notice of this days works shows we have been getting ready.


27. THURSDAY (27-338) Snowy day all day so it is now getting pretty deep. I measured out (seed 14 bus & feed for 7 months 28 bus) of wheat bin There are only 18 bus for sale. Afternoon battoned some cracks in horse stable & threw off snow off cowstable roof it was very deep & hard. I then put a scantlin by way of parline plate in horse stable. the snow is getting heavy on it


28. FRIDAY (28-337) Took in potatoes & apples. The apples are keeping well likewise the potatoes. Then split some wood. Afternoon took in 2 loads turnips & threw snow off old stable The snow is now every deep & the wood is getting burned up so after the 15th Feb I will have lots to do At Managers meeting tonight 10 oclock & O.S. tomorrow.

29. SATURDAY (29-336) Fine day. At Owen Sound with 12 bags peas Had 30 bus 44 lbs Sold at 62 c per bus $19.5. Market fees 10c Dinner 25 Sugar 25c Oat Meal $1 Barrel Salt $1.30 Spool 5c = $2.95. Thats the way the money goes. Paid for Manse Fund 3.20 -- The timber men have been making square timber on back end of 50 acres 4 elms are made now & some Black ash.


30. SUNDAY 4 after Epiphany (30-335) Attended Divine Service in Chalmers Church Keady The Rev H Currie preached from the text And they took knowledge of hem that they had been with Jesus. Acts 4 & 13.

JANUARY & FEBRUARY.- 1ST & 2nd MONTHS. 1881.

31. MONDAY. [31-334]

Cleaned up 16 bags of Oats. Hitched up single sleigh & Willie went up for Duncan's kettle as we are to kill Susie & spring pig. G. Henderson came down to give us a hand. We got on well Susie is good pork & was only up 3 weeks. Evening at Y.P.C.A. We are to have a debate 2 weeks from tonight Whether does prosperity or adversity expose a man to the grater evil.. I on prosperity

1. TUESDAY. [32-333]

A Month gone already I was at O.S. today Sold Susie for $6.50 per 100 lbs weight 328=$21.32 Oats 16 bags 52.28 @ 3.49 per bus 17.96. Amount 39.28 Paid at Merchants Bank note on Cherry cow ($49) which we bought last year at Hardies sale. Big price but she is the only cow that we have to calve this year. I bought one coming home tonight $27 from R McFarland

2. WEDNESDAY. [33-332]

Split wood & took home Duncan's kettle. Afternoon Brought home cow from Robert McFarland. Then took in wheat straw for bedding to horses. Fine day no clouds bright sunshine with intense frost the thermometer indicated in the morning 30 degrees below zero It did not feel as cold as Tuesday morning as there was no wind.

3. THURSDAY. [34-331]

Taking in tunrips out of another put so I was all forenoon shoveling away snow & making a new road. We got in 5 loads afternoon. They were good but those that were along one side of pit that were frozen hard before being covered over rotten About 2 loads out of the five useless. Pity that such is life.

4. FRIDAY. [35-330]

Thrashing at J. Scarrow's had horses this work will pay for use of mower which we had mowing 7 acres. Clear frosty day

5. SATURDAY. [36-329]

Thrashing this forenoon at Scarrows. Paid him 87 c for 84 lbs peas get in Spring. So I am clear with him now. Cherry calved last night at 1.oclock heifer calf roan in colour Afternoon cleaned up 16 bags oats. Clear frosty day

6. SUNDAY 5 after Epiphany. [37-328]

Attended Divine Service in Chalmers Church Keady Our Paster preached from the text I beseech you therefore brethren by the mercies of God that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy acceptable, unto God, which is your reasonable service Romans 12th & 1st.

1881. 28 DAYS. FEBRUARY.

7. MONDAY. [38-327]

Went to O.S. market with 16 bags oats. Got 34 c per bus. Had 53 33/34 = 18.35. The Oats weigh very well. I think they are the best oats we have had this side the Atlantic The wheat is down in price only 95 for fall wheat today. So we have lost by taking the Feb price on fall wheat sold for seed. W. Maxwell paid his wheat 16 14/60 bus $15.42. Paid his Father balance of sewing $3.75. Spent 45 c Fine day

8. TUESDAY. [39-326]

Filled up 10 bags Oats to repay John Barber for 28 27/34 bus got in fall. for feed. Took them up got home after dinner Afternoon cleaned up 15 bags Oats & fed cattle. W. Oliver paid fall wheat $12.19. Today has been of soft The snow has gone down a good deal today

9. WEDNESDAY. [40-325]

Got my hair dressed this morning we then cleaned up another bag of Oats and dressed shilocks for chop. Afternoon at bush put down one tree and cut it up 4 feet lengths split & piled except 2 blocks. Thaw all day the snow is sinking fast. It had been raining since 4 pm. & is still raining At prayer meeting evening

10. THURSDAY. [41-324]

The thaw still continuing so there is no getting a horse on the roads. I had to take pig back to Devins on foot this forenoon Afternoon split some wood. Charles Bains called to ascess property Amount of agreement $1700. $15 less than last year The snow has disappeared rapidly patches of bare ground to be seen here & there.

11. FRIDAY. [42-323]

Took in potatoes & apples they are both keeping well. I then covered turnips pits with snow where it was thawed off Afternoon made road from barn to gate fit for team to walk on This morning was frosty but through the day very mild so the roads are rather soft yet. I wonder if I can get to town tomorrow

12. SATURDAY. [43-322]

Willie and I were in bush sawing firewood cut 4 blocks forenoon. Afternoon we cut 2 logs of the 7 that were left on skid way of last springs sawing. We cut 18 blocks 9 we split & piled. This was a soft rainy forenoon got colder & harder afternoon. John Hall paid fall wheat 6.18 J Douglas paid also 13.70

13. SUNDAY. [44-321] Septuagesima.

Attended a prayer meeting in Presbyterian Church Keady Our minister being absent - assisting Mr Blain Tara. the Elders conducted the service.

FEBRUARY.-2ND MONTH. 1881.

14. MONDAY. [45-320]

Frosty morning & roads hard so I went to O. Sound Market with load of Oats 16 bags 52 33/34 bushels @ 34 c $18.01. Expenses 35 c From here to {Saagden?} road the road was very high & narrow but the sleigh kept on very well. Evening at Y.P.C.A. Had fine meeting. The debate was very well handled & showed a marked in improvement. Splendid Moonlit night with foreboding circle round the moon

15. TUESDAY. [46-319]

Got all hands up at 4 oclock and cleaned 8 bags Oats 7 bags wheat. Got away with load alittle past 8 oclock. Had 26 05/34 bus. Oats @ 34 c $8.89. Wheat 16 21/60 bus @ 1.07 = $17.49. Amount 26.38 Transmitted by draft on Merchants Bank $107. part of installment on farm balance in 3 months Expense of sundries 85 c Got whip from R. Robertson payment made by bringing out good Fine day & O. Sounds was pretty lively.

16. WEDNESDAY. [47-318]

Took in remainder of straw stack into driving shed for bedding horses. Afternoon went to back end of 50 acres to see the measuring of square timber by caller. The lumbermen went on to our lot with out permission & cut 10 or 12 sticks. Money is forwarded by post as there was 2 sticks hauled away which they were to measure on this way home. Evening went to see Mr Jackmen's & family.

17. THURSDAY. [48-317]

Went out Father & I to the 2nd Con. Arran to a Credit Auction Sale bought heifer in calf $31 & small year old heifer at $10.50. Big prices but with health may pay. Got them home at 8 oclock. The heifer calves 1st May or 1st June rather late. Father brought home horses Cold day

18. FRIDAY. [49-316]

Thrashing at J. Duncans Fine day Had a little more snow which will improve sleighing


19. SATURDAY. [50-315]

Took in 3 loads turnips 2 1/2 loads were rotten great pity but such is life, or such is the effects of frost. Fine clear day The cow bought of Robert McFarland calved tonight. Bull calf

20. SUNDAY. [51-314] Sexagensima

Attended Service in Presbyterian Church Keady the Rev H. Currie preached from the text Not by might nor by power but by my spirit saith the Lord of hosts Zechariah 4th & 6th

1881. 28 DAYS. FEBRUARY.

21. MONDAY. [52-313]

Father & I had a good sleigh ride to O.S. today. Paid $2 for fixing Fathers watch. 30 c for beekeeping books for Willie. 65 c for tea. $30 to R. McFarland $27 for cow $3 for 25 bus lime. Received for 10 pieces of square timber sold to McArthur Bros. & taken of far end of 50 acre lot $15.55. Spent today $33.45 $100 Pleasant sunny day

22. TUESDAY. [53-312]

Cleaned up 4 bags grist 9 bags chop. Then I split all the wood we have left in afternoon Soft day but I think will freeze. Paid G Henderson $9 for thrashing our crop. Cheap thrashing.

23. WEDNESDAY. [54-311]

Cold morning. Took load to Mill On my way bought 13 bus peas @ 61 1/2 c per bus-$8. Paid Gerolamy 96 c interest on gang plough had 1.25 balance 43 c Paid. Paid {scribble} $68. Bought 1 lb sulphur 10 c 1/2 oz Bin iodide of Mercury 15=254 =$78{?} Got home at 11 oclock had to wait on grist

24. THURSDAY. [55-310]

Intense frost this morning. I emptyed chop and cleaned bags and hung them up. Then split wood. Afternoon took down scaffold which was under strawcarriers at thrashing and fixed up sleigh to go out to Tara tonight to evening meeting in Pres. Church. Had a very pleasant meeting Mr Tom's was very pointed & clear Subject - The Borad & the narrow way. Cold day

25. FRIDAY. [56-309]

Did some little jots, then went to D. Adamsons sale. Things went very dear some being primed by the whiskey pail which was handed round so that all who wished might dip & drink. 2 Calves were sold one went at $22 the other at $12. Uncles Henderson & Haverson were at sale, had tea with us on their way home. Clear Sunny day

26. SATURDAY. [57-308]

Took in part of old stack out of Barn, then down some straw to Mr. Currie & some to Mrs Welsh out of barn. Afternoon took down load pea straw to sheep, and went 3 times to the bush to break road Took alittle load of wood each time. Alittle soft today and appearance of another thaw

27. SUNDAY. [58-307] Quinquagesima --- Shrove Sunday

Attended divine service in Chalmers Church Keady The Rev H. Currie Preached from the text For godly sorrow worketh repentence to Salvations not to be repented of but the sorrow of the world worketh death II Corin. 7 & 10

FEBRUARY & MARCH.-2ND & 3rd MONTHS. 1881.

28. MONDAY. [59-306]

Took in 5 loads of turnips left 4 loads behind We have just the pit across the creek now & the mangolds {mangelwurzel}. Splitting wood evening. Pleasant forenoon but is now very cold Had pleasant and profitable Y.P.C.A. meeting tonight

1. MARCH-TUESDAY. [60-305] St. David's Day.

Split all the wood that is at home this forenoon Afternoon chopping cord wood in bush got on well. Very cold day. At Managers meeting evening. And this is the 1st of March well it is getting like spring but we have quite a lot of snow yet & cold weather

2. ASH-WEDNESDAY. [61-304]

Chopping cord wood in bush all day Put down 2 trees cut and split & piled 1 1/2 Cold day Snowing alittle forenoon.

3. THURSDAY. [62-303]

Chopping cord wood & ground axe before I went away. Afternoon hitched up and drew home all the wood I had cut about 2 1/2 cords. Got on well in bush. Evening I went up to Devins but did not bring home pig. Bother the pigs I say. Very stormy tonight. high wind from south east with snow & drift

4. FRIDAY. [63-302]

I was at a Bee today sawing wood for Mr Currie. We put down the trees and cut them up with crosscut saws. I & C.McArthur cut up 5 trees 2 had notches cut. I never wrought a saw that cut so fast before. I suppose we cut over 5 cords. If we had a good saw we would soon put up a years wood as I did not think it possible for a saw to cut so fast. Soft snow

5. SATURDAY. [64-301]

At Blacksmiths shop gitting horses shod sharp. This is the first time they have been shod this year then made a pack for sleigh to tackle hay to O.S. Evening at Devin's for pig. I also opened a door into barn out of passage of horse stable. to get at hay in barn Raw cold day wind from North East

6. SUNDAY. 1 in Lent. [65-300] Quadragesima.

Attended dinner service in our own Church Our Pastor preached from the ext{text} and behold the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom. Matt 27.-51. Bright sunny day

1881. 31 DAYS. MARCH.

7. MONDAY. [66-299]

Finished hay ruck. & selected some boards to make door to put on between feed passage og horse stable & barn Afternoon Willie & I went to bush for pole to bind on hay then put on load of hay out of old barn. Evening at Association had pleasant meeting. Bible lessons just now are in the Book of Daniel & are exceedingly interesting

8. TUESDAY. [67-298]

At O. Sound with load of hay had Fan & Prince. Got on well roads rather bare near O.S. I had 2120 lbs hay (Sleigh weighed 810 lbs) Sold at 7.75 per ton but buyer payed 25 c for weighing & M. Fees so I had $8 per ton in reality=$8.21 1/2 Paid T. Frizzell for boots $7. Bought Improved Diamond Saw at 90 c per foot 6 feet long $5.40 Paid $4 Dinner 20.

9. WEDNESDAY. [68-297]

Went up to Aunt Mary's for Calf (a red heifer week old) Got home at noon. John Morrison came up here yesterday to help us cut some wood. Sawing wood in bush afternoon got on well. Saw cut pretty well rather wide set I think Bright sunny day

10. THURSDAY. [69-296]

Sawing wood till 4 oclock afternoon then hitched up & went out to Tara to Evangilistic Meeting. They have had meetings every night for two weeks & will have for another week yet. Cold night & roads rather bare

11. FRIDAY. [70-295]

Got saw sharped at Keady this morning and it is supposed to be rather soft in temper. We cut up a maple tree today split & piled it 2 cords. and made axe handle. at noon. Evenings I have been preparing speech for debate of which I have been appointed leader of affirmative Resolved that real evils are more productive of misery to man than imaginary ones

12. SATURDAY. [71-294]

Sawing wood all day. Cut up large maple 3 cords Made axe handle in the morning & put it in axe. Broke another handle tonight & made another evening We cannot find very good handle timber that is one reason why they break so readily. Snowing tonight.

13. SUNDAY. 2 in Lent. [72-295]

Attended our own Church Keady the Pastor Rev H. Currie preached from the text God be merciful to me a sinner Luke 18 & 13

MARCH.-3rd MONTH. 1881.

14. MONDAY. [73-292]

I finished axe handle and put it in axe Sawing in bush afterwards. Got a good bit cut today. Evening at Y.P.C.A. had pleasant meeting. Affirmitive side gain in the debate. Two of the speakers on this side were absent however. Debate for next month Resolved that Woman has more influence for good than Man. Good subject.

15. TUESDAY. [74-291]

I was sawing wood at W. Oliver's today as he has been sick for some time had a very good day. Willie took John Morrison down to Peabody on his way home The snow has gone away considerably today so that the sleighing is almost gone.

16. WEDNESDAY. [75-290]

Chopping notches in firewood logs. Willie & I sawed an hour before night after school time. Pleasant day

17. THURSDAY. [76-289] St. Patrick's Day.

Chopping all day. I have a lot of logs ready for storing. Foggy morning & forenoon Afternoon clear sunshine so the snow is wearing away fast The sleighing is clean worn out now & I hope we may have ploughing weather soon.

18. FRIDAY. [77-288]

Took in 3 loads tonight from pit across creek. They are keeping pretty well a few in bottom of pit are rotten with water as the land is so flat & last thaws water has not run off. Only a little bit of pit will be wet any way. I was chopping afternoon. Father was at Sinclair's sale bought heifer in calf for $15.25. I was at Uncle W's evening. our $14

19. SATURDAY. [78-287]

Frosty morning hitched up Prince & Brisk & drew home wood 8 loads in forenoon got on well & 4 loads afternoon Began to snow at dinnertime then turned to rain so I was pretty wet by the last load. I think we have 10 cords at home now which will keep us going awhile. Rained all afternoon and is still raining so I am glad there is so much wood at the door.

20. SUNDAY. [79-286]

Attended Dinner service in Presbyterian Church Keady. The Pastor Rev H. Currie preached from the text For without me ye can do nothing John 15.5

1881. 31 DAYS. MARCH.

21. MONDAY. [80-285]

Brought home the heifer Father bought. then took in barrel potatoes, & shifted peastraw off hay as we are feeding horses out of frame barn. Afternoon Sharpened saw it was my first attempt so it took a good while to get over it, then sawing in bush Cut over a cord. Evening at Y.P.C.A. I read 11 pages of the Rose of Chreriton D. Carr will read next night. (Debate.) I am on the negative side

22. TUESDAY. [81-284]

Set the saw fixed stove pipes & one of a thousand things besides. Afternoon Sawing cut a good bit. We have got a slight coat of new snow & it had been pretty cold today so I think we may get home some more wood tomorrow. Tomorrow never comes does it?


23. WEDNESDAY. [82-283]

Drawing home wood 8 loads pretty fair sleighing between bush & here. We have now 13 cords at the least at home now, which I think ought to bring us to the snow. Afternoon Sawing in bush got on well. We are making the bush quite thin & piling brush of every tree we cut so it is alittle like a fallow now.

24. THURSDAY. [83-282]

Sawing & chopping all day. We had a fine beech tree just off the stump at dinnertime. Afternoon we notched him up & took off 24 blocks of splendid splitting wood. Put down another tree & took off 2 blocks we trimmed it up. Sunny afternoon. Snow going slowly

25. FRIDAY. [84-281]

Sawing & chopping all day. Cut up 2 beeches & part of a small maple. Sunshine all day but very cold north wind. Made an axe handle evening.

26. SATURDAY. [85-280]

Cold morning. Put handle into axe & opened turnip pit & took in 5 small loads of good turnips Afternoon Ground 3 axes split Sunday wood & made another handle for old splitting axe Cold north wind Had a long letter from F. Cathrae. Bermuda today.

27. SUNDAY. 4 in Lent. [86-279]

Attended divine service in Presbyterian Church Keady. The Pastor Rev H. Currie preached from the text Son go work today in my vineyard Matt 21st. & 28th.

MARCH & APRIL.-3RD & 4TH MONTHS. 1881.

28. MONDAY. [87-278]

Cutting firewood. Put down a beech had 24 blocks in it. 1 small maple that was put down by fire also a maple stub 2 ft through at but a splendid log Got some notches cut in it before night. This forenoon G. Henderson got 8 bags black oats changed for 8 bags white for seed. Clear & cold

29. TUESDAY. [88-277]

Sawing at John Duncans he had a day of sawing machine & has got 50 cords or more cut to day. I was taking blocks from saw forenoon afternoon splitting. Cold day with appearance of change

30. WEDNESDAY. [89-276]

Sawing at home got our maple stub cut up, I suppose we had about 2 cords. Put down a big beech, evening. Cold north east wind. I wish the cold weather was past for it has been to long cold.

31. THURSDAY. [90-275]

I was at a log raising today. W. Maxwell has rented John Mc Nabs 100 acres & has to put up a house first thing so we got it raised today. 16 X 20 feet. Had a pleasant evening at Mr Hays on my way home Cold day & looks like snow.

1. APRIL-FRIDAY. [91-274]

I was assisting Mr Hays to saw as he had a days saw with machine at home. He got over 50 cords cut. Very cold day had slight shower of snow.

2. SATURDAY. [92-273]

Sawing wood in bush. cut off 21 big blocks of beech in forenoon. Split & pile then and chopped down another tree & fixed a lot of brush heaps & cut off 6 blocks evening Still very cold keen frost. I have been on 3 days at home this week. How quickly it has passed.

3. SUNDAY [93-272]

Attended divine Service in Presbyterian Church Keady The Pastor Rev H Currie Preached from the text Come see the place where the Lord lay Matt 28th. 6th

1881. 30 DAYS. APRIL.

4. MONDAY. [94-271] County Court Term begins.

Sawing & chopping all day. We have now a good bit of wood cut & quite a fallow chopped Uncle & Aunt Haverson & Mr Thom Evangilist came here forenoon on a visit. We had then at our Association in the evening. Mr Thom gave us a pointed & practical address.

5. TUESDAY. [95-270]

Cold & snowing alittle. Took in 2 loads turnips I was frozen by last cold weather that is on one side of pit which had only straw on it. At 11 oclock it began to blow & drift so thick that one could not see 4 rods. Had quite a fall of snow after sunset. O for some genial pleasant weather.

6. WEDNESDAY. [96-269]

Our visitors left this morning it being so stormy yesterday they could not start home. I ploughed & plained door to go on between barn & horses stable, & a lot of other chores. The Storm is over & the country side is white once more. Cold & cloudy so the snow did not go away much.

7. THURSDAY. [97-268]

Put door together & hung it hinges cost at Keady 10 c Screws 5 c = 15 c. After noon took in 3 loads turnips & one 1/2 load we got out below snow which were not gather last fall some were fresh & good others were rotten. We may cut some more where snow drift melts away more. Frosty to night. 1/2 past 10. P.M.

8. FRIDAY. [98-267]

Shifted one side of the lane so as to fence one side of sod field below barn. Afternoon cut 15 poles in bush across creek to fence the new watering place on creek below barn. & 19 in bush on this side creek for fence between here & Keady So we got a good days work done. Bright sunny day.

9. SATURDAY. [99-266]

Drew out all the poles across creek & gathered the 19 in other bush. Afternoon fixed cattle then dressed myself & got Wesley saddle and went up to Uncle Haversons to attend Tara church to-morrow. Fine clear afternoon.

10. PALM-SUNDAY. [100-265]

For the past sixweeks there have been evangilistic services in connection with the Presbyterian & Methodist Congregations of Tara conducted by G Thom & today the meetings were brought to a close by both Con {?} sitting down together at the Lords table. The Rev Mr Galloway preached from the text And Enoch walked with God. The evening Service was conducted by Mr Thom who spoke on the leading truths of the 13th 14th 15th & 16th Ch. of St John Mr. Curries text today was Psalms 85th & 6th.

APRIL.-4th MONTH. 1881.

11. MONDAY. [101-264]

Came home from Uncle Haversons. & hitched up sleigh and drew 19 poles from bush to fence. Afternoon took harrows to blacksmiths shop to get sharpened. & plough to get a small mould board on in place of coulter to pare off the grass & throw it into furrow ^ so as to get it covered to prevent it growing up between the furrows. Splitting wood remainder of afternoon. There have been circles round the sun & moon for days & night past so I suppose we will have rain or snow

12. TUESDAY. [102-263]

Took whole day at board fence & got on all the boards (except the one that goes on the top of posts) as far as we had posts in The bottom board is 1 foot 1st space 4 inches 2nd board 8 in. 2nd space 21 in filled by 6 in boards crossed these ends however not filling the space by 2 in 1 below in one above. Then topmost board 6 in. Cold day circle round the sun tonight but no storm yet.

13. WEDNESDAY. [103-262]

Took 3 loads of turnips out of pit & 1 off field that was left in fall. Then took up small load of hay from log barn to new barn for feeders. Cleaned 2 bags grist evening 4 bags oats chopp. Drew turnips with waggon which was the first work with it for the season.

14. THURSDAY. [104-261]

At Tara Mill with grist Called at Uncle Ws. for 2 1/2 (bus peas @ 69 per bus.) to mix with chopp/ Got new collar back band & hook hems (so that we might hitch up one horse.) for $6 & old collars faced $2. Bought all our seeds today. 25 lbs red clover @ 91/4 c $2-2{9?} for 12 1/2 acres 1 lb of Alsicke Clover 16 c. 8 lbs turnip Seed @ 18 c $1.44 1 lb mang.W. 30 c 2 oz Carrot 8 c 3 Pack of garden seeds 13 c = $4.42

15. GOOD FRIDAY. [105-260]

Shifted fence alongside of fallow so as to straighten it & take a piece off fallow which was not bad with stumps Afternoon went to Mr. Sim's for 13 bus seed peas. Fair roads. Pretty cold evening. Jack, Nell Elsie & George Haverson were down spending the evening.

16. SATURDAY. [106-259]

Fixed fence at new waterings directly below barn & made long whippeltree for mare. Afternoon Took away Nelly cow to Cochrane's Bull. Cool evening

17. EASTER SUNDAY. [107-258]

Attended Divine Worship in Presbyterian Church Keady the Rev H Currie preached about the text Call unto me and I will answer thee and show the great and mighty things which thou knowest not Jeremiah 33rd & 3rd

1881. 30 DAYS. APRIL.

18. MONDAY. [108-257]

Took in all the turnips 6 loads we put them into snow in barn, as we do not expect frost to hurt them now. Afternoon Put on a load of hay to take to Owen Sound tomorrow. Got it on all right & drew it out into yard. It will freeze tonight.

19. TUESDAY. [109-256]

At O. Sound had very good roads dry & hard as summer Had 17.50 sold at $8 per ton = $7.00 Bought plough reins 40 c Oatmeal $1. Duck 6 yds at 25 c per yd. = $1.30 Spool 13 c Weighing load & M.F. 22 c $3.25 Got $3 on hay & 2 to get. $1.75 on hand

20. WEDNESDAY. [110-255]

Got irons on to long whiffeltree & started to plough a piece of sod beside new orchard for garden ground as it is sandy soil & so preferable to this piece beside the house. Started in sod field below barn at 10.o.clock it does not plough well as there has been no rain & it is loose on the top & dry. Willie harrowed garden ground afternoon for the first with third horse.

21. THURSDAY. [111-254]

Ploughing all day & have now a good piece turned near the houses walk so fast being the first. Willie had Cherry cow at Cochrane's Bull today. Had a call of two Cattle buyers I offerered cows at $10.5. They said would we give back $10. No Father was sowing clover on fall wheat today. I hope we may have rain soon. Clear tonight again

22. FRIDAY. [112-253]

Ploughing sod all day getting over it pretty well. Fine dry day WIllie was building fences.

23. SATURDAY. [113-252]

Ploughing Ploughing Ploughing all day , all day, From morn till night with the wee intervals of eating time. a day & 1/2 will finish field now. Dry & warm.

24. LOW-SUNDAY. 1 after Easter. [114-251]

Attended Divine service in Presbyterian Church Keady the Rev H. Currie preached from the text Which shall know every man the plague of his own heart I Kings 8th & 38th

APRIL & MAY.-4th & 5th MONTHS. 1881.

25. MONDAY. [115-250]

Started to plough came on rain at 9 oclock so Wilfie & I washed that part of harness we use when ploughing & oiled it. Faired at 12 oclock so I oiled what we had washed and got to plough again at 1:30 P.M. Raining hard at bed time

26. TUESDAY. [116-249]

Had a lot of rain last night & it began to rain at 7 oclock again & rained heavy till 1/2 past ten. We were cleaning oats in barn. Afternoon had a lively time ploughing till night & an hour will finish it now

27. WEDNESDAY. [117-248]

Finished sod field then ploughing across creek in turnip land. Got 4 land done. Had quite a shower after supper but ploughed all the time. Father sowed 2 1/2 bags of peas on sod and Willie harrowed with Fan.

28. THURSDAY. [118-247]

Bains raised our assessment $150 today Took out 3 bags peas & Father sowed that & 1 1/4 bag of Oats which finished field I was harrowing all day Rather raw in morning & land soft as the water springs out of foot of hill. I have rather more than 1/2/ of it finished tonight Looks like rain but I think may keep off Tom Atchison is to put in post of board fence for 8 c per post

29. FRIDAY. [119-246]

Cool morning & looks to be dry so I left the harrowing as it will be dryer tomorrow Ploughing turnip land all day turned over a good piece. Willie was drawing stones to watering place as it is rather soft. Cold day to be 29 April.

30. SATURDAY. [120-245]

Ploughing turnip land forenoon then finished harrowing of field below barn. It looks well now. Evening ploughing turnip land, A few hours will finish cleaned land snow Willie was hauling stones with mare to watering place.

1. MAY-SUNDAY. 2 after Easter. [121-244]

Attended divine service in Presbyterian Church Keady our Pastor preached from the text. Go through the midst of the city through the midst of Jerusalem & set the mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abomination that be done in the midst thereof Ezekiel 9th. 4th.

1881. 31 DAYS. MAY.

2. MONDAY. [122-243]

Fine fresh morning. Finished ploughing cleaned land and started pea stubble that was not ploughed for fall wheat. Afternoon cleaned 3 bags 9 bus wheat & Father sowed turnip land. Willie went for road scraper so I was scraping with Fan all the muck on end land into hollows in field. Willie was harrowing while I was scraping. Wilkinson saw fat cows offered 4 1/4 per lb. did not sell.

3. TUESDAY. [123-242]

Willie was harrowing forenoon & made it ready for grass seeds I was building gaps and straightening up fences as the cattle are to get back through fields today. Afternoon I was ploughing pea stubble. Father sowing grassseeds Willie harrowing with Fan, they got 1/2 through with field. Wilkinson sent out word with Uncle Henderson that we would take cows at 4 1/2 c per lb. To be dilivered on Friday morning

4. WEDNESDAY. [124-241]

Finished ploughing pea stubble & Father & Willie finished grassseeds & harrowing. Afternoon at W. Henders{trails off} for 4 bus barley at 85 per bus. Got home at 1/2 past 2 then away to H. Oliver's raising which went on well. Father & Willie sowed & harrowed barley. Cool day Ann got $2 from W. Watson being balance on hay

5. THURSDAY. [125-240]

Put new head on gang plough cleaned 2 bags seed wheat & sowed 2 1/2 acres which was fall wheat winter killed. I ganged it in. Warm afternoon & looks like rain. Had a call of M. L. Thom also is visiting the home boys in the neighborhood. John Atchison has commenced to dig post holes.

6. FRIDAY. [126-239]

Got up at 1/2 past 3 oclock & got away with cows at 5. We had a good shower during the night so the morning was cool and the road in good condition for cattles feet. Got in at 11 o clock, they weighed 21000 at 4 1/2 per 100 $94.30. Brought home order on Merchant Bank in favoar of J. H. Mason for $100. Expenses 35 c

7. SATURDAY. [127-238]

Ploughing the piece of new land where Amber Cane & turnips were. Evening took Nelly back to Bull again. Rather a long walk after supper 8 miles. Willie picked stones off new land then went up to Uncle Williams with 1 1/2 bus Lost Nation Wheat on mares back and got the same amount of White Russians in exchange to sow new land

8. SUNDAY. 3 after Easter. [128-237]

At our own Church Keady Mr Currie preached from the text If it bear fruit well and if not then after that thou shall cut it down. Luke 13th & 9th.

MAY.-5th MONTH. 1881.

9. MONDAY. [129-236]

Finished ploughing new land & struck out 2 loads where fall wheat was last year. Father sowed new land with wheat & Willie harrowed. Afternoon sowing Oats on knolls I was ganging in. Came a shower so we came home & shifted stove to back Kitchen. Evening ganging got all done Father had sowed. Willie was twice over new land. Cherry cow was at Bull again this morning

10. TUESDAY. [130-235]

Sowing Oats I got them all ganged in by noon Willie finished new land. Picked some stones then ploughing for Oats. Willie harrowed gang ploughing across. Had a few slight showers today & the bush is getting green rapidly. T. Atchison has got in a lot of post to day. We are getting warm weather now, so things are growing fast the peas & Oats are up.

11. WEDNESDAY. [131-234]

Ploughing fall wheat stubble for oats got a good piece turned over. Willie was picking stones and burning rubbish on foundation of old fence. He had Prince at Blacksmiths Shop evening. T. Atchison has finished the posts . He got 54 lbs flour home with him tonight. It has been very warm ^ today & tonight

12. THURSDAY. [132-233]

Ploughing all day Willie was picking stones & put in gate post and laid worm of fence. Tom Atchison was here giving us 1/2 day. He fixed bush fence at bevermeadow and dug 2 gate post holes at gap into turnip field. We got in one post before dinner & hung gate at dinnertime. Father & Willie put in other post & fixed up fence. Cooler tonight. Very warm forenoon.

13. FRIDAY. [133-232]

Ploughing Ploughing Ploughing Willie was picking up a few stones. Afternoon building fence. Today has been nice & cool. North wind. The bush is leafing out fast we cannot see through it now. I am afraid we will have to plough up fall wheat yet it is very thin all of it.

14. SATURDAY. [134-231]

Ploughing Ploughing Ploughing Father & Willie finished fence between grass in new fallow & where I am ploughing. Evening had thunder storm and fine rain which will refresh the thirsty ground. Saturday night the best of all the week. Rest for the weary

15. SUNDAY. [135-230]

Attended our on Church Mr. Currie preached from the text We then, as workers together with him beseech you also that ye receieve not the grace of God in vain II Cor. 6th & 1st

1881. 31. MAY.

16. MONDAY. [136-229] Easter Term begins.

Ploughing all day and it will take tomorrow forenoon to finish. This field has taken nearly a weeks ploughing I wonder how many acres there are in it. It being partly new land and that stony, took more time. Willie was gathering roots afternoon harrowing Father sowed 3 bus Oats Cool day. Pleasant working. Our seeding would have been done with this field had the fall wheat been good. Such is life what has been will be.

17. TUESDAY. [137-228]

Finished ploughing in the forenoon. Afternoon Willie was harrowing with the team & I was stoning with Fan. Father finished ^ sowing an hour after dinner. Evening Fan was at the black smiths shop as she was lame. I was stoning with the team. Cool north east wind.

18. WEDNESDAY. [138-227]

Willie was harrowing & I was stoning with Fan. Evening Willie finished harrowing with Fan I started to plough 3 acres across creek among the stumps which was sown to fall wheat but was winter killed. Been cool today but warm evening

19. THURSDAY. [139-226]

Father was sowing oats on clear land across creek which was sown to fall wheat but was winter killed. I was gang ploughing them in Willie was harrowing behind me & Father was sowing grass seeds behind him. Got through alittle before sunset then at J. K. Halls farewwell party He is leaving for the state of Iowa.

20. FRIDAY. [140-225]

Gang ploughing oats in on winter killed fall wheat beside barn Father sowed grassseeds & Willie harrowed piece across creek second time then harrowed in grassseeds beside barn. At 2 oclock I got loan of Bains roller & rolled spring wheat & oats across creek before night. which was one good job done.

21. SATURDAY. [141-224]

Rolled piece an sowed to oats besides barn then the field which is 1/2 barley 1/2 spring wheat. Then afternoon rolled the knolls & clear part of field which was sown beginning of week, & took home roller. Willie & Father took in potatoes into barn we have a good waggon load. They kept very well.

22. ROGATION SUNDAY. [142-223]

Attended our own Church our Pastor preached from the text I am come that they might have life and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10th &. 10th.

MAY.-5th MONTH. 1881.

23. MONDAY. [143-222]

Ploughing stumpy part of field across creek the ground is dry & hard now. I got a good piece turned over. Willie was picking stones in grass field out of the way of mower. Very hot day.

24. TUESDAY. [144-221]Queen's Birthday - Born 1819 - Bank Holiday.

The 24th of May Ploughing across creek till supper time then I had holiday. Very warm day few rigs on the road today to be the 24th There were two weedings in this neighbourhood today.

25. WEDNESDAY. [145-220]

Finished ploughing across creek in forenoon Willie took over seed & harrows & took off stumps. Afternoon I took two year old heifer to bull. Willie was harrowing Father sowing Evening lit 4 heaps in fallow near R. McLeods fence. They burned gloriously sparks rising 70 feet.

26. THURSDAY. [146-219]

Willie was harrowing forenoon I was at five & gathering out sticks & stumps from fence. Afternoon fixed 2/3 south end of fallow had fine fair breeze and good burn then being so much old stuff in it. Burning 4 panels of R. McLeods old fence was the only mischief done. Hope we may get the other end burned soon. Got home to bed at 9 oclock

27. FRIDAY. [147-218]

Father finished sowing grass seeds & Willie finished harrowing at 10 oclock. I damed up creek & made good place to wash sheep in & got them washed by 12 oclock. Afternoon gathered stones on turnip land & Willies gang ploughing it after supper. I was building fence at fire evening. Slight shower at 4 oclock the thunder is booming now so we expect more.

28. SATURDAY. [148-217]

Rainy morning. Hitched up waggon & took 24 rails to build gap burned by fire in fallow. Willie Went to gang plough & I went to blacksmiths shop with Fan got 36 c worth of pine lumber from him for a gate. Afternoon making gate Willie dunged out calves Evening he was gang ploughing turnip land. We have had a splendid rain last night & today so everything is greatly refreshed.

29. SUNDAY. A after Ascension [149-216]

Attended Divine Service in the Presbyterian Church Keady the Pastor Rev. H. Currie preached from the text Thus saith the Lord Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom neither let the mighty man glory in his might let not the rich man glory in his riches Jeremiah 9th & 23rd.

1881. 31 & 30 DAYS. MAY & JUNE.

30. MONDAY. [150-215]

Willie gang ploughed all the remainder of turnip land today & I gathered all the stones in forenoon with Fan. Afternoon made gate awhile then clipped 2 sheep before supper & 4 after. Very pleasant day cool & dry

31. TUESDAY. [151-214]

Harrowing turnip land I finished clipping sheep 4. Afternoon ploughed knolls alongside board fence then scraped them into hollows & made it level, which inproves the appearance greatly & will facilitate the putting on of the boards likewise. Pleasant day with few drops of rain. Got a load of hay for Owen Sound tomorrow.

1. JUNE-WEDNESDAY. [152-213]

Drew out load of hay out of barn & finished it as barn door is too low to let out a full load. Got away a 7oclock. had fine cool day. but no demand for hay. Gave it to W. Watson @ $7 per ton had on 21.00 = 7.35 market fees 20 c 1 lb pressed nails & a few copper rivits 10 c 30 c

2. THURSDAY. [153-212]

Clearing the potato land of stumps, weeds, & stones. Afternoon plough it. Evening Willie was harrowing I was scraping & leveling alongside of board fence got finished Father & Ann have been cutting seed potatoes to day It was pretty cool last night but is warm tonight & looks as though we would have a shower.

3. FRIDAY. [154-211]

Finished ploughing potato land harrowed it & took off stones also opened two first furrows for potatoes. Afternoon had slight shower wrought awhile at a gate. then started to draw out dung for potatoes. Got out 8 loads by night.

4. SATURDAY. [155-210] Easter Term ends.

Planting potatoes 23 drills & 4 for carrots. We required 1 1/2 loads more manure. Got through at suppertime. Then harrowing & gathering stones, on turnip land

5. WHIT-SUNDAY. [156-209] Pentecost.

The Rev Mr. Blain of Tara assisted Mr Currie to dispence the Sacrament at Peabody on the forenoon of today & preached for us in the evening at 6:30 Text for I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ for it is the power of God unto salvation unto every one that beleiveth, to the Jew first & also to the Greek. Romans 1st & 16th.

JUNE.-6th MONTH. 1881.

6. MONDAY. [157-208]

We had a very severe frost last night. The potatoes & beans & tomatoes are badly blackened & the clover hangs its head. We here at board fence to day got on all the boards we had & lack about 30 six inch boards, however it is cattle & pig proof, which is a great matter in the meantime. Evening drew the rails which board fence set free & put them on old rail fence between here & Keady which makes it a better fence than it has been since we saw it. This was a big days work

7. TUESDAY. [158-207]

Took off weeds off one land then ploughed & drilled it. Manured 14 drills 4 loads manure & covered in at night. This is to be sown with Mangold Wurzel tomorrow if all's well. They are alongside potatoes. Father sowed 3 drills Carrots today. That we drilled today is good soil & splendid mould & I hope we will have some good mangolds. Like rain.

8. WEDNESDAY. [159-206]

Got out roller on turnip sow machine rather and rolled & ground drills Father Ann & Willie droped seed so we had the mangels sown by 10 oclock. Then I was ploughing Afternoon at Bill Scarrow's raising a 50 x 60 barn. Willie was gathering stones. No rain cold & dry.

9. THURSDAY. [160-205]

Willie was at O.S. with Prince & light waggon had the wool along. 4 fleeces 34 lbs. 29 c for 26 lbs. I was ploughing with Fan & Brisk stoning and stumping afternoon Ploughing evening No rain yet cold & dry

10. FRIDAY. [161-204]

Ploughing forenoon. Father & Willie digging stumps & stones I was taking them off afternoon Evening ploughing with mare as Willie was away to Mill with 2 bags grist & staying at Uncle Haverson's all night. Looks to be dry & we had frost again last night Its dark

11. SATURDAY. [162-203]

Harrowing forenoon pretty good mould about 1/4 acre lody which I went over with planker. Afternoon ploughing got a good piece turned over & harrowed. There is now more than 2/3 of the land ready to drill when a few stones are picked off. Willie got home with grist right bought dung fork $1. Warm to day & I hope it will bring thunder

12. TRINITY SUNDAY. [163-202]

{no entry}

1881. 30 DAYS. JUNE.

13. MONDAY. [164-201]

Took off some stones & started to drill Dug some stones at noon then drilling till suppertime. Had a very high wind yesterday & today it was higher Dust blowing of turnips fields in clouds. So it was disagreeable working. Evening went a few rounds when it came on a severe thunderstorm & hurracane sweeping down trees & fence by rods. We had to build fences till dark to keep out own cattle out of crop & some at cow. There are 28 rods to build yet

14. TUESDAY. [165-200]

Opened 14 drills more; there are 65 now then drew out 2 loads dung before dinner & 9 after which manured 27 drills. Father & Annie spreading Willie drew some rails to low parts of fences in the morning Breezy day & cool.

15. WEDNESDAY. [166-199]

Drawing out manure 16 loads and there are now 63 drills manured spread & ready to cover in. Fine cool day but dry. Mare has not colted yet 3 weeks past her time (or 11 months) & 3 weeks today.

16. THURSDAY. [167-198] Corpus Christi.

Started to cover in with the one furrow rather wide land but 1/2 being along the side of knoll I can turn the furrow down on dung instead of up. Got the 63 drills finished in forenoon which kept me busy. Afternoon sowing got them finished alittle after supper. Had slight shower as we were finishing & looks like more & I hope it will come Good night

17. FRIDAY. [168-197]

Opened 40 drills with one furrow the first I have ever tried. They are pretty straight but I have 2 drills in the middle a little wider than the rest However that is of little moment when the speed is considered. I had them opened at 10 oclock, then put out 14 loads of manure before night 2 1/2 drills to manure tomorrow. We had a splendid nights rain last night which will do a great amount of good. as the ground was very dry

18. SATURDAY. [169-196] Battle of Waterloo.

Put out 2 1/2 loads manure & got the drills covered in by dinnertime. Afternoon sowing the 39 drills Evening harrowed potatoes and took off stumps & stones off the piece that is to plough for turnips.

19. SUNDAY. 1 after Trinity. [170-195]

David Carr & I went to 12th Con. School House and opened a Sabbath school. We had 14 scholars which is encouraging, to say the least. We meet at 10 oclock. Afternoon at Church Mr Currie preached from the text Now if any man have not the spirit of Christ, he is none of his Romans 8th & 9th

JUNE.-6th MONTH. 1881.

20. MONDAY. [171-194] Accession of Queen Victoria 1837.

Cross ploughing for turnips, had Fan afternoon as Prince was at blacksmiths shop Got it all ploughed & part of it harrowed. Evening took fat sheep up to Wards corner to King who bought her on Monday 6th at $5

21. TUESDAY. [172-193] Proclamation of Queeen Victoria.

Willie got Jacksons light rig & took Annie to town (on her way to Uxbridge) with Prince I had Fan & Brisk harrowing & planking till alittle after dinner then raised 41 drills with one furrow & came out splendid just right so I will be more able to try again. Willie got home all right. Rather cool tonight I suppose it will freeze.

22. WEDNESDAY. [173-192]

Put out 11 loads manure before 1 oclock which did 23 drills. Then at D. Gilchrists raising a barn 40 x 60 got finished at dusk all right. Father & Willie finished spreading 23 drills. Mare has not colted yet & it will be a year on saturday first. I believe I will have to sit up tonight & keep her company now & again. Uncle W. raise his building tomorrow so we will not get turnips finished. 25 minutes to 12 oclock oh sweet sleep.

23. THURSDAY. [174-191]

Drew out 8 loads manure which finished the turnips manuring for a season. Afternoon at Uncle Williams raising a building for hay & straw with stone stable under. 30 x 60 got it up well it is a first rate building & fitted to give great accomodation. Father & Willie were spreading manure Mare has not colted yet. It has been very cold all day & is still cold.

24. FRIDAY. [175-190] St. John Baptist - Midsummer Day.

Covered in 41 drills this forenoon & afternoon sowed them ^ (143 drills all together) so we have got the turnips sowing finished for another year. We finished on the 8th July last year 14 days earlier this year. Evening Willie and I cut bushes at creekside at foot of garden as we are to summer fallow all round the house & make it clean & level & seed down. the soil is too stif for garden no colt yet - such an old lady

25. SATURDAY. [176-189]

At road work on Con. Willie drove horses & I filled in gravel pit so that put it all in (4 days) After noon came on rain & rained till 6 oclock so we did not get road work finished. I went to bed & had a good day A year today since mare was at Tara & no colt yet.

26. SUNDAY. [177-188]

Forenoon at Sabbath School on 12th Con had 23 scholars, we will soon need 4 teachers. Afternoon attended our own church Mr. Currie preached from the text If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. John 13th. & 8th.

{Transcription is of supplementary piece of paper}

{Transcription is of supplementary piece of paper}

{Transcription is of supplementary piece of paper}

JUNE.-6TH MONTH. 1881.

20. MONDAY. [171-194]

    Accession of Queen Victoria 1837.     Cross ploughing for turnips, had Fan 
afternoon as Prince was at blacksmiths shop.  Get it all ploaghed +
part of it harrowed.  Evening took fat sheep up to Ward['?]s corner 
to King who bought her on Monday 6th at $5.


21. TUESDAY. [172-193]

   Proclamation of Queen Victoria.        Willie got Jacksons light rig + took Annie 

to town (on her way to Uxbridge) with Prince I had Fan + Brish

harrowing + planking till alittle after dinner then raised 41 drills with

one furrow + came out splendid just right so I will be more

apt to try again. Willie got home alright. Rather cool.

[Note placed above the next 3 entries]

Gillies 4.84

         3.00 returned in Feb

Thompson 5.00 boots

McInnis 10.00 reaping

Thompson –.50 1/2 days work

Atchison 3.50 posts. [?]

         _____
        26.84

Oatmeal 2.28

House 10.00

Cows 5.00

Sow 1.00

         _____
        45.12


25. SATURDAY.

                At road work on Con. Willie drove horses

+ I filled in gravel pit so that put it all in (4 days)

After noon on rain + rained till 6 oclock so we did

not get road work finished. I went to bed + had a good sleep

as I have been watching mare I needed it.

     A year today since mare was at Tara + no colt yet.

26. SUNDAY. 2 after Trinity [177-188]

                 Forenoon at Sabbath School on 12th Con had 23

scholars , we will soon need 4 teachers.

Afternoon attended our own church Mr. Currie preached from the

text If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me.

                                        John 13th + 8th.

{Transcription is of supplementary piece of paper}

{Transcription is of supplementary piece of paper}

{Transcription is of supplementary piece of paper}

{Transcription is of supplementary piece of paper}

{Transcription is of supplementary piece of paper}

1881. 30 & 31 DAYS. JUNE & JULY.

27. MONDAY. [178-187]

Finished road work on Con. in forenoon Afternoon rained till 6 oclock good heavy rain. We turned to the making of gate for roadside got it all dressed with plane & put together so far. The braces & pins are not put on yet. The 2 year old heifer bought of R. Campbell calved tonight in bush. We gave it a good suck & milked some from her & left them there.

28. TUESDAY. [179]

Drew all the logs out of creek below garden & made a large heap of them but they will take awhile to dry before they burn. Afternoon took home heifer & calf. & fixed gap in bush fence. Then draw off stone pile in garden & put the stones at creek banks to prevent water from fretting them away. also started to build a covenient place to dip water no colt as yet.

29. WEDNESDAY. [180-185]

At road work on townline we had four days so we got done tonight. Willie lost his thumb nail last night by a pinch from a stone but he got on to watch gaps & I had horses & waggon. At gate awhile in the evening A fine comet appreared unanounced on Thursday (23rd) of last week It is the first comet I ever saw & is said to be the comet of 1812

30. THURSDAY. [181-184]

Fenced new watering place with poles which we took out of bush in spring. Shifted piece of fence raised stones and threw down old log shantie at the end of log house The frost & dry weather has so damaged the hay crop that hay is now selling at $13 per ton. 4 weeks ago at $18.

1. JULY-FRIDAY. [182-183] Long Vacation Begins - Dominion Day - Bank Holiday

Shifted fence from west side of old orchard to east side & build it 4 rails high. At 3 oclock I left for Picnick in John Smiths bush held under the auspices of Keady Marmian & 12th Con Schools. They had a lengthy programme of which I heard 1/2. Uncle Haverson Aunt & Jack were down with buggy. Warm day.

2. SATURDAY. [183-182]

Started off with Rosie this morning to Cochrane's Bull a long walk & it was very warm, got back at 11 oclock Afternoon taking off remainder of stones off garden & orchard got steps built down to creek so as to get water as the creek rises & falls Hamilton was niggering in fallow & the fire is into the piece that was not burned & the wind gets up tomorrow we may get trouble. Hope the best.

3. SUNDAY. 3 after Trinity. [184-181]

Went Sabbath school had a good attendance some being new scholars. Afternoon at our own Church Mr. Currie preached from the text Take unto you the whole armour of God that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all to stand Eph. 6th & 13th & following verses.

JULY.-7th MONTH. 1881.

4. MONDAY. [185-180]

Getting away old log shed gathering stones and stumps. An hour or two will make it ready for the plough now. Evening put on a load of hay for Owen Sound. This has been a very warm day

5. TUESDAY. [186-179]

At O.S. with load of hay got $11 per ton had 1960 lbs $10.753 Bought $1 oatmeal. Paid 1.40 Ballance crosscut saw. 2 harvest rakes 25 c 2 hats $1. Books & Stationary 1.25. Weighing 10 c Got home all right No cold yet.

6. WEDNESDAY. [187-178]

Took off some stones & rubbish & got started to plough. Got part in front of house ploughed. Evening at Uncle W. raising sheep house. Willie Harrowed the piece I ploughed.

7. THURSDAY. [188-177]

Went to Thomson's as they want to hire did not bargain wants $23 per month. Came on rain & rained till night. Got gate for road finished. & the other made for calves park to let horses down to water. This rain has done a great amount of good turnips will soon be ready for hoe. 9 oclock Mare foaled horse colt all night.

8. FRIDAY. [189-176]

Ploughing all day very warm Got 1/2 turned over. Mare & colt doing well. the latter a little weak on pasterns but will soon straighten up. Father & Willie wwere hoing potatoes they will soon need furring up. Turnips growing fast will need hoe in a day or two.

9. SATURDAY. [190-175]

Ploughing all day 2 or 3 hours will finish it now. The heapss of logs & bush are all burned but 2 One at creek side & small one on ploughing. Breezy day but very warm. Colt still doing well Father & Willie finished potatoes & hoed turnips afternoon.

10. SUNDAY. 4 after Trinity. [191-174]

At our Sabbath School in the forenoon had 19 scholars As the Sacrament was dispensed at Desboro today our service was in the evening at 6 oclock. Mr. Currie had for his text But exhort one another daily least any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

1881. 31 DAYS. JULY.

11. MONDAY. [192-173] Had Donald Sinclair with a Toronto Mower in the field blow frea field. He finished it aftersupper about 5 or 6 acres. We had J. Thomson (& will have him for a week at $1. per day) mowing in stumpy field next Keady. I was cutting fence corners forenoon after mowing along with Thomson. Father & Willie hoeing turnips.


12. TUESDAY. [193-172] Looks like rain. Raking up among stumps at 10 started with horserake in clear field. raked a strip on 3 sides & got it cocked up when we got the tail of a thunder shower which lasted 10 minutes. Put tops on cocks & mowing till night. The frost has so damaged the hay crop that in many places the timothy has not headed outt at all. & where we had heavy hay last year we have nothing but leaves. However we will have plenty.


13. WEDNESDAY. [194-171] Mowing forenoon got big piece gone over Afternoon got trial of Tiger sulky rake that was lying at Keady. I raked remainder of field with it; was throagh at suppertime Then took over a small load to Mr. Currie & one into log barn. The Sulky rake wraught well. dis charges easily but appears to be rather hurriedly got up. Price 28. in two payments.

14. THURSDAY. [195-170] St. Swithin. Finished field at Keady at 10 oclock Caught horses & got on & off one load before dinner. Afternoon got in 5 loads 6 in all 3 are in log barn 3 in stable loft. Colt was out runing round with its mother tonight in the yard. It is straightening up pretty well. Fine day

15. FRIDAY. [196-169] Willie & I put off load I then put braces to catches on handles of horserake which will keep them fast now Raking up till dinnertime, then drawing in 6 loads in stable loft. Had Jas. Atchison helping afternoon. Very warm it took a pailfull of water to put off every load.

16. SATURDAY. [197-168] Slight thunder shower at 6 oclock this morning. Took Mare to Waddles horse at Saugeen Road. $3 for insurance Afternoon Raking hay Evening took it all at 2 loads in stable. So we have 15 alls off about 12 acres. We have had 20 of 6 acres. But we will have enough to put us through the winter Paid John Thompson $5 balance 50¢ 5 1/2 days work at 1 per day Quite a strong breeze tonight.

. SUNDAY. 5 after Trinity [198-167]

We were over at our Sabbath School I had 3 boys in my class today. Some of the scholars have Scarlet FEver just now Afternoon at our own church Mr Currie preached from the text Thou art weighed in the balance and art found wanting. Daniel 5th & 27.

JULY. - 7TH MONTH. 1881.

18. MONDAY. [199-166]

Built all the fences around the hay field that is cleared to let the cattle in. I got them in at noon. Afternoon cut thistles among potatoes then finished summer fallow. Cleaned up grist & moulded up potatoes got through at dark. George Morden is coming to mow tomorrow at 1 per day. Cool evening been very windy for some days back.

19. TUESDAY. [200-165]

Father and Willie went away to Tara Mill G.M. & I ground scythe & started in newest field 8 acres new land.. Put up 9 cocks of it at night. Had cow in pound this morning but got her away before noon & I was glad Old Joe vr.McGrath Bravo. ---

20. WEDNESDAY. [201-164]

Thunderstorm this morning but little rain, it went away round south. Cleaned out driving shed floor & ground scythe. Mowed 3 or 4 swaths before dinner. Afternoon cocking up 13 cocks & mowed 6 swaths before sun set. G. Morden was in afternoon.

21. THURSDAY. [202-163]

Mowed till supper time got finished but have some fence corners yet. Evening cocking up 11 cocks. It takes a great amount of raking to get a cock, this year. There is nearly 3 acres of the field that we have not mowed it being so I shortened by frost.

22. FRIDAY. [203-162]

Raking up what we cut yesterday & mowed some in the bush where the fire burned. It was the best grass we cut this year. Afternoon drew in 5 loads 4 unloaded in stable one on barn for the night. Cloudy morning but cleared off before noon.

23. SATURDAY. [204-161]

St. James.

Cut Orchard & fence corners then hoeing turnips till dinnertime. Afternoon raked & gathered hay out of bush & fence corners. Caught hoses took load round to stalble and loaded it then draw in 1/2 load out of bush & out of orchard. So we have got through haying for another year. 17 loads in stable loft & 4 in log barn. 21 in all. G Morden for 4 days $4.50. Cost of haying $12 probably. The hay is well saved this year better than last. We had 38 loads last year.

24. SUNDAY. 6 after Trinity. [205-160]

Our Sabbath School had to be given up for a few weeks on account of a fever being prevalent in the district. Father was requested to conduct service at the funeral of J. Chalmer's daughter to day at North Derby. I was along with team attended our on Church afternoon. Rev H Currie preached from the text But rejoice in as much as ye are partakers of Christs sufferings;

1881. 31 DAYS. JULY.

25. MONDAY. [206-159]

Fixed up log barn doors cleaned ott pig pen for young pigs. Got 7 caught and put in. Then hoeing turnips.

Some of the hard clay spots have lost the turnips by the long continued drought, but some took remarkably well and on the whole they have a good appearance.

26. TUESDAY. [207-158]

Cool day, & cloudy, with slight drizzly showers wind north west. There had been a slight shower during the might so the turnips were freshened up quite a bit.

We were hoeing all day over 2 acr finished 36 drills to hoe. Got little pigs all in pen to might. Cloudy still I hope it may rain. (Rest for the weary)

27. WEDNESDAY. [208-157]

At O.S. meeting, Annie Had 3 passengers along & 2 pigs for W. Ingils. Cascade Mills sold at $1 per head - $2. Annie Arrived with 4 oclock train all night. Expesnes Boots & watch key $2.15.

Plesant evening coming home.

28. THURSDAY. [209-156]

Hoeing turnips till 11 oclock. Jas Corbett O.S. called with buggy and took me to see a Kirby Reaper working in barley field. He is agent would sell at 115. First payment 1883 with 3 succeeding payments. We have decided to hire a reaper for this year till we see what turns up. Afternoon got W. Olivers scuffled & scuffled turnips till sun down then took it home. Called on J. McInnis he will reap for us on Saturday.

29. FRIDAY. [210-155]

Ground cradle blade and cut 20 stooks of 10 sheaves fall wheat & road round barley, for reaper. Very warm. Evening had to take Sally to Cochran's started off at 1 & got back at 11. 8 Miles. Rather long evening walk.

30. SATURDAY [211-154]

Had Toronto Reaper cutting barley. It did not make very good work.

Got it all worked up by supper time. Heavy thunder shower passed round south ground here very dry.

31. SUNDAY. 7 after Trinity. [212-153]

Attended Keady Sabbath School & service afterwards our Pastor had for too his text Isaiah 33rd & 16th. He shall dwell on high his place of defence shall be the munitions of rocks bread shall be given him, his waters shall be sure.

AUGUST. -8TH MONTH. 1881.

1. MONDAY. [213-152]

Took off stones & stumps off summer fallow and took down old root house.

Afternoon harrowing. Evening Ploughing. The sods are cut in squale blocks rather rough tooking. Very warm & plough hard to hold. Called on John Duncan. we are to have his oxen & driver on Thursday if all well.

2. TUESDAY. [214-151]

Ploughing S. F. all day. very very hot; burned heap of rails that came but of old root house. Father & Willie finished mangolds & Carols.

3. WEDNESDAY. [215-150]

Finished ploughing then harrowing till suppertime. Then made 3 hand spikes for tomorrow. Willie was pulling peas.

4. THURSDAY. [216-149]

Logging all day got up 24 or 25 heaps and over 1 1/2 acres. We had G. Duncan with oxen G. Morden & Wesley Oliver's hired man. We intend the land we have logged for fall wheat if possible to got it in.

5. FRIDAY. [217-148]

Pulling peas till 4 oclock then caught horses & put on the rack.

Got supper & in one load barley when a squall proceeding a thunderstorm came up but it brought no rain. Got in another load & left 16 stooks they only got a few drops of rain so we took it all in also the fall wheat.

6.SATURDAY. [218-147]

Morning the wind blowing from north east upper portion of clouds drifting in opposite direction. Thunder in south west which has now brought us an hours rain & is still raining Began to clean out barn at 10 oclock & was busy till 4. Put out old straw & chaff & down scaffold. Made it ready for crop Willie had Prince at shope 2 shoes set. Mr Currie is taking him to Desboro to morrow as his mare lost sight of one eye. It appeared to be pierced by some sharp snag

7. SUNDAY. [219-146]

Attended Sabbath School Keady & service afterwards Mr Currie had his text There were giants in the earth in those days Genesis 6th 4th. Notes Giants here ment desperadoes or men who fell with a blow. Giants of the present day The spirit of worldliness. It has been in the world from the beginning & age has not impaired its strength. 2nd the Giant of worldly pleasure the young its chief devotees The Giant Intemperance one of the greatest. 3rd Church fairs & entertainments leaves for opening the purses of the people. Very questionable mades &c &c

== 1881. == 31 Days. AUGUST.

8. MONDAY. [220-145]

Put off load of fall wheat then pulling peas. They will keep us pulling till noon on Wednesday I guess. Crop clean & evenly ripened but do^not appear to be very richly poded. Peas small being so hurriedly ripened. Cool day with signs of more rain. The 8th of August Well, Well &


9. TUESDAY. [221-144]

Pulling peas all day except an hour in the morning when it was raining. Cleared up a fine day & every thing is dry again.


10. WEDNESDAY. [222-143]

Pulling peas forenoon afternoon took in four loads of peas & put off last one as I will need waggon to Mr. Duncan's thrashing tomorrow.


11. THURSDAY. [223-142]

Thrashing at John Duncan's barley & fall wheat. Had horses on machine. Willie was at J. McInnis he is coming to reap on Friday afternoon. He then finished pulling peas. Cool day & cloudy


12. FRIDAY. [224-141]

Took gate for road side to Jackson's shop then we cut rouds round fields for reaper. Reaper did not come & as we had James Atchison we went & cut part of the new land wheat I was scuffling turnips Reaper came alittle after supper & we got down a large piece of field across creek


13. SATURDAY. [225-140]

Put our team on raper they went well got wheat across creek & 2 acres beside barley. He then went to Bains & came back & cut the oats before 5 oclock. We had a hand from John Duncan tying so we got it all up in stook by night. Reaping clear land 40¢ per acre


14. SUNDAY. [226-139]

Rev Mr. Currie preached from Luke XIII-16. Christ the first to raise woman from the degradation entailed by being the first in the transgression. Elevated more in the birth of Christ than she lost in the fall. She a child of God = a daughter of Abraham. Labouring under deep affliction. God never promised freedom from affliction nor from the bitter fruit of sin in this life. Jesus attributed her affliction to Satan. A wrong idea of the present age attributing to Providence the calamities & disease of life which should be attributed to Satan. The case of Job. God permits evil but does not originate it. Permits & overrules it for his glory. She frequented God's house her heart was there. The blessing came in the use of means ––.

AUGUST. -8th MONTH. == 1881.

15. MONDAY. [227-138]

Drawing in all day got peas all in 13 loads in all. 7 on top of granery. Very pleasant day for working cool clear& dry.


16. TUESDAY. [228-137]

Put off load of peas in the morning then cut remainder of new land wheat. Got through alittle after dinner. Hitched up & drew it in to other wheat field so as to let cattle into aftergrass in the newest field where they will enjoy life for a time Evening I fixed fence along the top of oats. Willie at shop with Brisk


17. WEDNESDAY. [229-136] Finished scuffling turnips then afternoon harrowed summer fallow. It is very thick with sods but the most of them are dead now Father & Willie were at the hoe. We have had little dew for two mornings now still the clouds are high with bright blue sky so it may be dry.


18. THURSDAY. [230-135]

Examined wheat across creek this morning as we had no dew. Grain quite hard so we got hitched up. Had in two loads be fore dinner & 4 after from across creek which finished it. Evening got in 3 loads wheat from beside barley stabble left 32 stooks. & 36 of White Russian which grew on new land Began to look like rain at 3oclock & is still cloudy but may not rain tonight Good night old friend lale no tells go to school


19. FRIDAY. [231-134]

Hoeing turnips second time all day got 49 done & left 5 drills Cloudy day but dry

20. SATURDAY. [232-133] Long Vacation ends.

Finished howing turnips then drew in wheat 3 loads so all our wheat is in now, & it did not get a shower in stook. Afternoon took in the oats 3 loads 49 stooks. Built up parts of fence that was blown down to let cattle & pigs into pea stubble. Evening cut round oats on knolls for reaper on Monday


21. SUNDAY. 10 after Trinity [233-132]

We were at our Sabbath School again to day had 5 scholars Had few on account of fever. Attended Divine service in our own Church Mr Currie preached from Ps. 61st & 2nd When my heart is overwhelmed lead me to the rock that is higher than I. 1st Consider the cirrcumstances which lead to this prayer 2nd the refuge to which the prayer points A Rock The Rock Christ Jesus. 3rd Lead me. Entire confidence implied.

1881.

22. MONDAY. [234-131] Reaper did not come but will be tomorrow Put off load of Oats hitched up & took home Mr Duncans scuffler & brought down his horse rake. Willie raked till night we then drew in rakings. He broke a tooth of the rake I was picking up in follow afternoon Evening cut round Oats at Barn then rakings August nearly gone


23. TUESDAY. [235-130] Took home horserake. Reaper came & cut knolls & afternoon piece beside barn. Oats on knolls all tied & 49 stooks set. Ann & Willie once round piece beside barn Reaper wiill back on Friday to cut across creek


24. WEDNESDAY. [236-129] Got 16 bag & 16 lbs seed wheat from J Duncan at 1.20 per bus very dear it being rusted & far from first quality However it will do for seed & it was near by. I was then ploughing S.F. Sowing it afternoon Evening ploughing. Ann & Willie finished tying Oats & Father finished stooking.


25. THURSDAY. [237-128] Ploughing all day Willie turned part of dung heap. Father lit log heap we took out of creek at dark so we had a scene fit for an artist The two green trees on each side the fence & all lighted up so brilliantly. So closed the 25th of August 1881


26. FRIDAY. [238-127] Finished S.F forenoon if it had some levelling done in front of the house it would be ready for seed. Cut swath for reaper before dinner & reaper had one round cut also Looking like rain we hurried up & got it finished by 6 oclock 106 stooks quick work. Rained a few drops but is still cloudy.


27. SATURDAY. [239-126] Rained a few drops this morning. Started to cradle stumpy part of oat field at 9 oclock cut a large piece & road for reaper round clear piece Oats pretty good. Sold 1 lamb to Dolphin today for 2.75. Last night wonderful to relate Ready was the scene of a great conflagration. Old Joe McFarland's log tavern & frame shed were destroyed by fire. No other damage was done (damage a good clearance)


28. SUNDAY. 11 after Trinity [240-125] Very warm day. We were at Sabbath School had 8 scholars. Mr Curries text today Isaiah 9th & 6th The Wonderful. IN the first place Wonderful in respect to his person. United to a sinful & poluted nature & his own nature & purity still maintained {illegible} W-- In respect to the offices which he assumed Pro. Pit. & King W-- in his attributes. Wonderful in his works. Creation & Atonement the masterpiece The works by which perishing man was redeemed. We In is love fallen man his special love. In his suffering the great humiliation of the cross. Lastly Wonderful in his triumphs.

AUGUST & SEPTEMBER. - 8TH & 9TH MONTHS. 1881.

29. MONDAY. [241-124]

Finished cutting Oats on stumpy land, and hour after dinner. Then we drew in the Oats on knolls 4 good loads. They were cut on Tuesday last.

This has been a very hot day. I think the hottest we have had this year. John Bravender got sunstruck & had Doctor attending him. Bleeding with ice water applied to the head are some of the remedies used.

30. TUESDAY. [242-123]

Reaper came this morning about 8 oclock, & finished and hour after dinner. This is a very good piece of oats the sheaves are strewn very thickly we have not got them all bnd & scarcely 1/4 stooked up but it may be dry tomorrow This has been another hot day the earth as an oven & the heavens as brass. The turnips are weather in great need of rain . Hope

31. WEDNESDAY. [243-122]

Finished tying up & had it all stooked except 3 lands by dinnertime. This morning we had a fine breeze which freshened up so that stooking was difficult. & has so fanned the fires through the country that we cannot see 1/2 a mile & so thick that our eyes are sore. The air is hot like the breath of a furnace even though in motion. We drew in Oats between barn & creek 4 loads. Father finished stooking Uncle William was fighting fire to day Dolphin's swamp all on fire. Crossway burning.

1. SEPTEMBER --THURSDAY. [244-121]

Put off load then cradling oats across creek & a few drops fell before dinner. Stooked up what we had cut & came home to dinner. Afternoon had a slight shower. Cleaned up barn floor & started to thras oats for horses. Suppertime we had a very heavy shower water standing in pools. I had to got after cows tonight - had another heavy shower, the turnips look better already. & the fires will be fixed up. Cleand up oats - 5 or 6 bus. Rain, hope realined.

2 . FRIDAY. [245-120]

Started to plough pea stubble it is a little better of the rain (about 3 in in. ) Ploughing till 10:30 oclock when J.McInnis came with a new center cut reaper made by Toronto Co. to let us see it working. Grain to wet so he will be back tomorrow. Afternoon Ploughing got a big piece turned over.

3 . SATURDAY. [246-119] Trinity Term ends

Ploughing till the grain was dry, then finished cradling across creek. Afternoon had reaper finishing oats. The new reaper works well knife driven on the old plow; rakes or by shaft. R. Coulter was in the field and offers the machine for $95 with 3 years to pay first payment Jan. 1883. Finished tying by moon light.

4. SUNDAY. 12 after Trinity [247-118]

At Sabbath School had 6 in class to day 14 altogether. Mr Currie's text today Romans 5 & 9 Adam a type of the Saviour 1st Adam came directly from Gods hand the same true of the Messiah. 2nd Adam perfect in the beginning Made in the likeness of God. The Son was the express image of his Fathers person. 3rd The relation between Adam & his wife the same as between Christ & his Church. 4th Adam the federal head of human race All sinned & fell in him Christ fulfilled the law for his people. In Adam all die --- Every type falls short of to antitype. The first Adam of the earthly earthy, the second the Lord from heaven. Paradise lost - Paradise regained No choice in our relation to the one. Believe & live. We can choose another federal head. ----

1881.

5. MONDAY. [ 248 - 117] Drawing in Oats three loads from across creak and four from stumpy part of other oat field. 7 loads today such a day as this we have never seen since we came to Canada with smoke from bush fires. The high wind today has drawn them on we can scarcely see Duncan's barns for smoke and our eyes are painful . At 4 oclock it was almost dark the sun being clouded with the dance smoke many have been fighting fire today we have no doubt the fire about Keady


6. TUESDAY. [ 249 - 116 ] Drawing in all day 7 loads off 3 acres big acres of course. but it was a good crop. The wind was not quite so high today or the smoke so dense. We expected to hear of yesterday and so we have Aunt Mary's barn was burned and the contents.They came thrashing in the barn forenoon had to take machine away just in time for it caught fire a few minutes after from sparks. The swamp close by was burning furiously Barn insured for $250 contents at $500. I left for there tonight on horseback.


7. WEDNESDAY. [ 250 - 115 ] At Uncle Haverson's. What a desolation the fire has made their fences thrown down and partly burned The swamp nearly all burned down. Aunt Mary's place looks bare nothing but ashes for a full barn. The house is lonely without it but it is well that it was saved. Today the fire is quieter being in a sense burned out. I helped them to raise a new crib for well (as the are to {illegible} it) before I left plenty of water a comfort and necissity in their present state the contents of barn were Uncle Hs. They got two cattle killed on Monday by falling tree


8. THURSDAY. [ 250- 114 ] Ploughing pea stubble all day cooler today. Ground hard and flies bad on horses. Can my inference be drawn.

Willie hd mare shod. Got the scraper here from McKees gate & started to level S.F. in front of house.

I have got a severe cold by some cause or other


9. FRIDAY. [ 251 - 113 ] Ploughing forenoon through offload then drawing in afternoon from across creek 4 good loads so the Harvest of 1881 is in the barn. Seed time & harvest shall not cease. We have had a very pleasant harvest dry weather and the labour rendered lighter by the reaper we have succeeded well without a hired man. On the hole we have had a good crop. Cost of reaping 22 Acres $9.50


10. SATURDAY. [ 252 - 112 ] Ploughing all day a day will finish it now. I don't remember of the flies ever being so bad on the horses as this afternoon bot & black flies. Cloudy with a stiff breeze from the south. Willie and Father went picking up in fallow. I wonder if we will get in wheat in time in new land


11. SUNDAY. 13 after Trinity [ 253 - 111 ]

We were at the S.S. today again had 12 Scholars 4 in my class Mr Currie had for his text today II Kings 5th 1st to 14th Naaman the leper. Learn 1st might and fruition do not exempt us from the ills of life. 2nd Great & important events often rise from trivial causes. 3rd The importance of the religious training of children. 4th True religion will make the possessor blessing wherever his lot may be cast. 5h We should not despise information from inferiors. 6th knowledge to be useful must be reduced to practice. Be ye doers of the word and not hearers only

1881.

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1881.

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1881.

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1881.

 {already done a few pages back} 

5. MONDAY. [248 - 117 ] Drawing in Oats three loads from across Creek & four from Stumpy part of other oat field. 7 loads today Such a day as this we have never seen since we came to Canada with smoke from bushfires the high wind today has drawn them on we can scarcely see Duncan's Barns for smoke and our eyes are painful at 4 it was almost dark the sun being clouded with the dance smoke many have been fighting fire today we have no doubt the fire about Keady


6. TUESDAY. [ 249- 116 ] Drawing in all day seven loads off three acres big Acres of course but it was a good crop the wind was not quite so high today or the smoke so dance we expected to hear of yesterday and so we have Aunt Mary's barn was burned and the contents they came thrashing in the barn forenoon had to take machine away just in time for it caught fire a few minutes after from Sparks the swamp close by was burning furiously Barn insured for $250 contents at $500 I left for there tonight on Horseback


7. WEDNESDAY. [250 -115 ] At Uncle Haverson's what a desolation the fire has made their fences thrown down and fully burned the swamp nearly all burned down Aunt Mary's place looks bear nothing but ashes for a full Barn the house is lonely without it but it is well that it was saved today the fire is quieter being in a sense burned out I helped them to raise a new crib for well as the are two legible it before I left plenty of water a comfort and {illegible} in their present State the contents of barn were uncle ho they got two cattle killed on Monday by falling tree


8. THURSDAY. [251 -114 ] Ploughing forenoon through offload then drawing in afternoon from across Creek for good loads so the Harvest of 1881 is in the barn seed time and harvest shall not cease we have had a very pleasant Harvest dry weather and the labor rendered lightly by the reaper we have succeeded well without a Hired Man on the whole we have had a good crop cost of reaping 22 Acres $9.50


9. FRIDAY. [252 -113 ]

10. SATURDAY. [ 253- 112] Ploughing all day a day will finish it now I don't remember of the Flies ever being so bad on the horses as this afternoon bought and black flies Cloudy with a stiff breeze from the south Willie and father went picking up in follow I wonder if we will get in wheat in time in new land


11. SUNDAY. 13 after Trinity [ 254-111 ]

We were at the SS today again had 12 Scholars for in my class Mr Currie had for his text today 2 Kings 5th 1st to 14th Naaman the leper learn first might and fruition do not exempt us from the ills of Life second Great and important events often rise from trivial causes third the importance of the religious training of children fourth True Religion will make the processor blessing wherever his lot may be cast fifth we shall not despise information from inferiors sex knowledge to be useful must be {illegible} to practice be ye doers of the word and not hears only

1881.

12. MONDAY. [255 - 110] Finished the field at dark tonight. Father sowed 2 bags and got over 2/3 of it. This is thiner than our usual seeding so we will see how it will do. Willie was picking up this forenoon & coming home found the ewe we call Blackleg dead in the fence corner. We plucked off the wool and put her beneath the sod at noon. Her breathing has been laborious for more than a year & I suppose grub in the head also -- Cloudy and slight showers just like fall


13. TUESDAY. [256 - 109 ] I was harrowing until Father finished swwing then Willie harrowed till night. I was scraping in Garden got it pretty level now but it has taken quite a while. Evening I hung gate at barnyard to open into calves field to let horses to water.

Bright blue sky today with big white clouds floating on a cool northern breeze


14. WEDNESDAY. [ 257-108 ] Willie harrowing all day. I and father were digging stones and leveling in front of house. Afternoon had more picking stones off orchard scraping and removed parliament building to the shade of plum tree at the end of log house. Evening picked up a little in follow and lit f4 log heaps


15. THURSDAY. [258 -107 ] Willie finished field at half past 10. Father & I lighted a lot more heaps & picked up. The wind got up very high from South East so the fence caught three or four times but we put it out. Got Orchard at back of house sown at dinner time & I ganged it in. I was at fire evening. Willie harrowing ganging. The wind is still high but we have got a fine shower so I think we can go to bed


16. FRIDAY. [259 -106 ] I was up looking at fire between 12 & 1 as we have the equinoxial gale. The spark were being whirled along with every gust, but I thought nothing fresh had caught so I went to bed till 5. Still a very strong gale. Fire spread a little among old logs but fence did not catch. Logged up piece to keep fire from spreading among logs. Then took off 4 big stones at creekbed. Picking up all afternoon and finished it heavy rain at supper time and is still raining. Threw off last load of harvest tonight


17. SATURDAY. [ 260-105 ] Rained last night & off & on all day today. Cleaned up barn floor had 1 1/2 bushel oats from drawing in. We were to cut up in follow but rain put us home. Thrashed 6 bus peas cleaned them up and put them in bin. Papers report terrible fires in Michigan sweeping towns & villages and everything for miles. people taking refuge in the lake. Disastrous gale on Saturday last to shiping on our lakes.


18. SUNDAY. 14 after Trinity [ 261 -104 ] We were at our S.S. 9 Scholars and all 4 in my class. The service in our church was conducted by Mr James Duncan from the Northwest. Text 11th Ch of Matt at the 28th 29th and 30th verse. Come unto me all ye that labor and our heavy laden and I will give you rest.

The Church was full Mr Duncan being a general favourite before he left for the N.W. 9 years ago. He has since he left qualified himself for the ministry & he's held appointments there but is home on account of sickness and is now so far restored.

1881.

19. MONDAY. [262 - 103 ] Got remainder of S.F. round house sown and ganged in. Grass seed sown over as far as back of house and harrowed in. Called on C. Duncan he is give us half days logging tomorrow. Got bag flour from Uncle George this afternoon. Father and Willie fired all the log heaps. I cut up some evening & fixed up little heaps. Warm day.


20. TUESDAY. [263 - 102 ] Rolled in log heaps they had burned well, then we cut up with saw. 3 sawlogs & a good few rail cuts. A. McFarland threshing peas afternoon he was logging with us We got a great amount of work done and well done. I think I will get plough started tomorrow if all well We have got a clear piece at this side of fallow -- Cool and cloudy.


21. WEDNESDAY. [264 -101 ] Branded up a piece of fallow at this side and a long lower and then ploughing it ploughs well and appears to be fine rich soil & the greater part of it has no stones. Father and Willie were picking up Had nine heaps burning tonight We had to take down 2 loads pea straw to log barn which is a great break just now. Quite a breeze tonight.


22. THURSDAY. [265 - 100 ] Took down small load peastraw then at the plough. We rolled in heaps this morning the burned well many of them clean out. Arthur & Willie cleaned up peas afternoon he had 34 bus I was plowing at C, Duncans for 1/2 day logging

Warm sunny afternoon

23. FRIDAY. [266 - 99] We had a great rain last night which will make things grow The grass is getting greener and the wheat is up. I had plow at shop got coulter laid & set & started to plough 1/2 past 8 & t I ploughed till dark. Got a good piece turned over. Lighted 3 heaps tonight Father and Willie (Aunt Anne is here tonight) finished picking up tonight


24. SATURDAY. [ 267- 98] Ploughing, rolling up heaps made one brand heap drew off some rail cuts. Willie had mare hitched up drawing small brands and roots. We had quite a rain last night again the heaps 3 in number & some smaller ones looked rather damp but Father lighted them all & they burned first rate. We heard tonight that our dear friend Frank Cathrae died of 4 day illness of yellow fever at Ber{illegible} He was here before he left 13th Spt so he has been there a year and has found a grave far from home and kindred Poor Frank


25. SUNDAY. 15 after Trinity [268 - 97] We were at 12 Con. School house as usual. Mr Curries text today Gal 3rd & 1st Notice first the great and important privilege of the Galatians. Not that they had actually witnessed the crucifixion but they had a crucified Saviour preached to them. They had not all the Gospels but they had some and one was sufficed & they had the Gospel faithfully preached to them. They had also the Gospel set forth to them by the consistent walk of professors. The celebration of the Lord's Supper. The Galatians had all these yet they turned round to the elements of the law & rejected the Gospel & this is what called forth the expression foolish Gals.The same is true still.Believing in theory but not in practice. Hearers but not doers of the Word --

1881.

26. MONDAY. [269 -96 ] Branded up fallow one heap the last & skidded 7 saw logs then ploughing till night. Willie picking roots with Fan afternoon thrashed a few oats.

Had shower after dinner today. Ordered a pair of everyday boots from R.Thompson Keady $4.


27. TUESDAY. [ 270-95 ] At Aunt Mary's bee Ploughing for fall wheat and drawing out dung. Cousin George is to work the farm now and this is the start. Rather a showery forenoon but turned out fine day.

Arthur split 100 rails this afternoon for line fences between us and Ronald McLeod


28. WEDNESDAY. [271 -94 ] Ploughing got through at 4 oclock Willie thrashed some oats this forenoon. Father sowed oats stubble with timothy as the spring sowing failed to catch owing to the dry season. Willie harrowed it in one stroke. g

Got down load pea straw Arthur was thrashing this afternoon


29. THURSDAY. [ 272- 93] Sowing new land got over it all by night double stroke which is all it will get. Father has more than 1/2 sown with timothy. Took down load straw at noon. Arthur finished all the peas on top of granary tonight There is a load of straw outside on wagon but it will be dry I think.


30. FRIDAY. [273 - 92 ] Took down straw then shifted fence with wagon got nearly through 3 loads will finish afternoon Father fired stumps this forenoon & the fire began to run from as there was a very high wind. We kept it from fence & fired a stump to stump lot more to wind ward. Arthur cleaned up peas & put them in bags for O.S. Market 28 1/2 bus. 62 1/2 bus all together Arthur has 6 bus one pck for his work


1. OCTOBER -- SATURDAY. [ 274- 91] Drew remainder of rails for fence loged up a corner to let fence down to bush fence Afternoon Father sowed the other 1/2 of new land with Timothy also some of Oats stubble across creek. Got fence all built by night and horses shod.


2. SUNDAY. 16 after Trinity [275 - 90 ] We were at our Sabbath school had fair attendance. Mr Currie's text today Romans 5th & 20th. The Offence here mentioned Adam's sin the design of the introduction of the law in the economy of grace -- that the offence might abound {illegible} that it might bring out sin that it might be seen and known Law does not cause sin but rather reveals it to the character. Grace abounded: Triumphed over sin More powerful. Sin in provision by nature Grace the Victor -- More than sufficient. Also in regard to its fruits Sin robs of earthly blessing Grace bestows heavenly God & humanity united in one person the fruit of Grace can sing a song to their deliverer in which the angels cannot join -----

1881.

3. MONDAY. [276 - 89 ] At O.S. market had 32 02/60 bus peas sold @ 74c $23.70 house 12.50 Miss B.5.00 Plough paid 50 Poke grass seed 80c Sundries 45 ==1.75 Balance on hand 4.44 That how the money goes Barley No 1 sells today at 80c wheat 1.25 oats 40c. Very warm day


4. TUESDAY. [277 -88 ] Thrashing, did not do much forenoon horse power lost small key which had to be replaced. Afternoon thrashed well. I think there are about 60 bus spring wheat 130 oats & 60 barley. Got through before sunset. Father finished grass seed sowing across creek. Very cold day


5. WEDNESDAY. [278 -87 ] I was thrashing at Charlie Duncan's Willie was harrowing across Creek all day Father was burning stumps. Cold day


6. THURSDAY. [279 -86 ] Hitched up wagon & dug & drew 5 loads sand for stone root house. It is splendid sand and easily got besides farthest knoll. Afternoon demolished part of old root house & helped Father to fire stumps got them all going by night quite a line of fire. Willie was at Riley {illegible} show today evening at Uncle W's arranging about root house


7. FRIDAY. [ 280-85 ] Taking down old root house. Willy finished harrowing across creek. We then drew away 3 loads manure that was round root house & by 4 oclock afternoon we had it all down. We then cleared barn floor of barley chaff and cleaned up 4 bags chop 3 grist 8 bags S.W. for market got through at 9 P.M.


8. SATURDAY. [281 - 84 ] We had thunder last night & this morning with a rainy day clearing up about 3 oclock afternoon. Took over lime from driving shed to cow stable for grout. Got out remainder of sawdust grout by taking off outside board between cladding. Nailed it up and threw water and got 1/4 of the side of stable grouted.


9. SUNDAY. 17 after Trinity [282 - 83 ]

We were at our SS again had very good attendance & pleasant day. Mr Currie's text today Luke 15th & 17th The Prodigal Son had a pleasant home and kind Father but here we find him in a far country and in want. He makes a great discovery. I perish with hunger next plenty in his Father's house. He makes the resolution of which there are two kinds one caused by remorse the other by true repentence. {illegible} the spirit in which it was carried out turning to his Father. He left all behind. Hearty confession of sin. A deep sense of his own unworthiness True humility Make me as one -- still thy son. He arose and went to his Father The glorious results his Father was watching His father ran and kissed him did not allow him to finish his speech Clothed him Fed him. His father with him at the table.------

1881.

10. MONDAY. [283 - 82 ] Cold stormy day with a few flakes of snow. Started for O.S. with 11 bags S.W. {illegible} to grind & 4 bags chop. Sold 8 bags at Mill @ 1.25 per bus Had 19 08/60 = 23.91. Bought 25 lbs 3 in nails 75c 12 lb Shingle nails 45c = 1.20. Beef 1.00 B. salt 80c Dinner 25 in all 3.25 Got home all right Clear frosty night


11. TUESDAY. [284 - 81 ] Finished digging out foundation of root house forenoon Afternoon shifted lane to let us a long back of old barn straight down to gate. Then drew some stones for root house from old fence bottom at Orchard, & some more from stonepiles in field. Paid boots to R Thompson $4. Had very hard frost this morning ground had quite a crust.


12. WEDNESDAY. [285 -80 ] Rainy morning started to groute we have the half of one side done now. Afternoon about 3 oclock went to Uncle W's got his tools & load of lime 20 bus @ 15c I was dark before we got home threw off load & covered part of it for later use with sand.


13. THURSDAY. [ 286-79 ] Took out all the sawdust soured some lime & started to cut out boards along the end of stable just below beam so that roof may get in below.

Uncle came afternoon and got a good piece done by night. Clear and cold .Barley down to 65c it was 80c a week ago


14. FRIDAY. [ 287-78 ] Fine morning building the order of the day Mixing mortar drawing water wheeling stones. Willy was ploughing this afternoon learning by experience how to turn the stuborn gl{illegible} This has been a very pleasant day but is now raining


15. SATURDAY. [288 -77 ] Rainy morning & rained till 2 oclock Grouting stable afternoon drawing stone for building Evening hunting a lad to ploough but was not successful we should have looked out sooner Procrasting Too busy So on Go to bed


16. SUNDAY. [ 289 - 76 ] We were at our SS fine day and good afternoon. The text today Jer. 9:23rd & 24th with special reference to the last verse. Man worships something either the true or false gods. The Triune God of this world Wisdom, Might, Riches, we are to avoid glorying in these but rather (24 verse) to glory in understanding and knowing the true God. Notice first understanding that is hearing with the ear and having intellectual knowledge of the letter of Salvation will be to our condemnation if we do not know him practically experimentally spectacularly. The latter killeth Instance Columbus Theory of a western continent gave him no rest the fact underlying the theory convinced him of success. many accented to Col {illegible} but it did not move them. We must be moved to action. This is the knowledge to be gloried in. We have also to know him in a particular way. Not as the Creator but as he that exercises loving kindness towards man as manifested by his saving grace. And judgment His children rejoice in this Leaving the Judgment of their persecutors to him. Righteousness. Righteous in his loving kindness. With his stripes we are healed. Righteous in judgment always right. He delights in all these. Reasons why we should Glory Its intrinsic value, no knowledge like it, God's delightful character. It will never leave us The possessors supremely happy.---

1881.

17. MONDAY. [290 - 75 ] Rainy morning mended some of the harness then grouting till night. It has rained all day & this afternoon it rained very heavy thunder showers.

Our root house floor is not very wet & I hope it may not.


18. TUESDAY. [291 - 74 ] Drizzly morning. Grouting till noon we have an end & a 1/2 to do now. The north end will have the grout between inside boards and stonewall of root house. Afternoon shifted some oats and took 20 stooks to Mr Currie. We then drew 3 loads sand & 2 loads gravel for grouting north end. Dry afternoon


19. WEDNESDAY. [292 -73 ] Got up early & fixed up for killing pig. Got him hung up by 9 oclock then ploughing till dinnertime. Uncle was here in the morning Wilie was ploughing for turnips next year in the afternoon Father and I with mason. Fine Dry day


20. THURSDAY. [293 - 72 ] Had some rain early this morning but has cleared off and we had a dry day. Willy was ploughing all day. I & Father were tending the mason. Breaking stone drawing Stone getting as many in as will keep him going tomorrow Had Thanksgiving service this evening in our Church The text was in Psalm 63rd & 7th


21. FRIDAY. [294 - 71] Dry Frosty morning got half of potatoes ploughed out Willie was plowing Got home a load of potatoes into pit Uncle has got up a good piece today. We had preparitory service to Communion in our church today Text Exodus 32nd & 26th who is on the Lord's side.

Beautiful day with bright prospects for tomorrow


22. SATURDAY. [ 295-70 ] The promise of a fine day as we thought brought a rainy morning. It cleared a little and ploughing & building were started but were soon stopped by rain. I then started to mend travis in cow stable. At church at 1/2 past 10. Mr Mackenzie Kilsyth preached from Acts 26th & 29th a good plain and simple sermon rained all afternoon finished travis & got in one box of groute.


23. SUNDAY. 19 after Trinity [296 - 69 ]

Rainy day. This being our communion Sabbath we were not at our S.S. We had Mr Currie this year Text Job 19 & 25 Notice first Job's Redeemer. Jesus a living Redeemer He had not the knowledge of the facts connected with his life as we have but his faith took all the faster hold of his person. 2nd consider the redemption here implied. Job felt that he had been in bondage but was now redeemed and not with corruptible things the price of redemption the life of Gods dear Son to whom was the price paid. To Satan no we were never his by right but to eternal justice. Notice next what was he redeemed from First from the guilt and power of sin Can one break off from the sin he loves No He is helpless but trusting in Jesus he can. Redeemed from the demands of the law. The second Adam took the place of the first & kept the law which we had broken. Also from the power of Satan. Next Job's profession My Redeemer his own Second I know No false assurance There is fully awareness & there is full assurance & affliction often brings out and shows on what we are leaning. He knew also that his Redeemer liveth now and forever & although worms consumed his body yet in his flesh he would see God Glorious hope --

OCTOBER. 10th Month == 1881. ==

24. MONDAY. [297 - 68] Wet raining. Shifted stove up to front kitchen Willie at plow all day. We were all at Thanksgiving service Mr Currie preached from the text I Cor. 15th & 57th. Notice first the victory next the giver of that victory Jesus Christ the victor. 2nd What are we victors over Death & sin Reasons for gratitude The greatness of the gift to us & us so unworthy. The greatness of the law if he had not given us the victory Eternal death. also worse than helpless. Afternoon uncle building & drew small stones and put them beside wall then {illegible} in the banking up over them.


25. TUESDAY. [298 -67 ] Breaking and drawing Stones evening brought home 8 bus more lime & 3 tressels of scaffold from Uncle's. Uncle was building and Father mortar man. Willie was at Chesley with Mr Murray's cow I think we will get to the potatoes tomorrow if all well

Cold & clear at bedtime


26. WEDNESDAY. [299 -66 ] Hard frost this morning I ploughed awhile then turned out potatoes Got them up & harrowed & all home into the pit & covered with earth at night Uncle has north wall all the height now. It has been very frosty in the shade all day the mortar freezing on the wall. Willie was home here at 4 oclock full of Chesley & surroundings The new railway has a splendid iron bridge there now Frosty to night.


27. THURSDAY. [300 - 65 ] Got up scaffold then drawing stones & grouting between stonewall and stable. Ann pulled mangolds got them into pit on field 5 loads & covered with straw. Uncle got a great piece done. Evening had waggon at Uncle's and got end rafters for roothouse Willie was ploughing A great amount of work has been done today & it has been a beautiful day.


28. FRIDAY. [ 301- 64 ] Ploughed furrow away from the carrots as Ann and {illegible} are to pull them Brought home a load of sand drew stones got rafter on east end Afternoon got load of gravel for grout put in one boxfull then home carrots into pit and covered with straw. East end & 2 sides of root house are finished now so we will finish stone work tomorrow if dry & all well. Been a fine day but looks like rain.


29. SATURDAY. [ 302 - 63] Rainy morning. Cleared off at 9 oclock Uncle finished building & all the pointing except an hours work Willie was ploughing afternoon. I was tending mason. Took him home evening.


30. SUNDAY. 20 after Trinity [ 301- 62] We were at S.S. again had few Scholars dry day. The text today Gal 5 & 16th The spirit here spoken of the third person of the Trinity Spoken of in God's word as Spirit of God. The spirit of Christ he came to do Christ's work. The comforter (beautiful title) who will bring all things to your remembrance & surround mysterys with a halo of light & glory The Acts of the Apostles known by the early Church as the Acts of the Holy Ghost. The author of regeneration in the {illegible} He convinces of sin of righteousness & of judgment The Author of Sanctification The sin against the Holy Ghost Instance the Jew said Jesus was under the influence of the Prince of Devils when he cast out devils Thus they rejected the Holy Spirit so they had no Spirit to strive with them therefore left to their fate

== 1881. == 31 & 30 Days OCTOBER & NOVEMBER

31. MONDAY. [ 304-61 ] Went to bush and skidded 2 logs 13 ft and length for rafters to roothouse. Got Duncan's trucks & took them to Kilsyth sawmill brought home 9 bunches shingles & feet lumber for sheeting Ann and Willie pulled 12 drills of turnips & cleaned 14 bags barley.

Very fine day.

1. NOVEMBER -- TUESDAY. [ 305-60 ] At O.S. market had 14 bags barley 35 34/48 bus @ 85c $30.35 Good price. Bought oil 25c rope 45c Got meal 1.00 Sundries 70 $2.40 in all Brought home load sawdust for root house from Kilsyth. Beautiful day & roads pretty dry. 20 drills turnips pulled today. Mr Currie was presented tonight with a Buffalo Robe by members of the Y.P.C.A.


2. WEDNESDAY. 306[ -59 ] Opened pit with plough. Had Jack Sinclair filling & little Bob so we got in 12 loads into pit in field 1 in stable 4 in pit beside barn 17 in all. Ann, Willie and Father have pulled the 1/2 of the field. This has been a very fine day the turnips were dry & clean & I am glad we were able to take the good of it


3. THURSDAY. [ 307- 58] Showery morning. Finished the grouting of cow stable & cleaned it all out & fixed ropes. Threw off the 17th load into pit. Afternoon hung new gate at road. then helping W. Oliver to kill a big pig Evening tied in the two heifers we are to sell at Xmas & the cows as we have had some showers of snow today


4. FRIDAY. [ 308- 57 ] Ground white with 5 in snow Got in cattle sheep & pigs Snowing thickly all forenoon. Got pigs into old hen house we have three to fatten. Pork is selling at 7.50 for {illegible} & peas at 73c per bus

Afternoon covered mangold pits with earth. Quite a wintery aspect today


5. SATURDAY. [309 -56 ] Feeding cattle has begun again & we will have it for 6 months. Covering pits was the order of the day Shoveled off snow put on pea straw & earth Wraught hard & got 17 loads covered by night I suppose about 12 loads of pit. We made them shallow in pit so as to prevent heating which accounts fro the great length. I rained & snowed all day so we were pretty wet, but it is something to have them covered.


6. SUNDAY. 21 after Trinity [310 -55 ] We have given up our S.S. for winter months. Our text today Heb 1st & 14th Notice that there are other intelligent beings in God's universe beside us We may believe in angels but do not realize the fact as we ought. 1st There nature and character. God's messengers & as such before the Scriptures were given to man were seen in bodily form. They are spirits not encumbered with flesh and blood. Spirits pure & simple Full of knowledge yet it is limited They excel in strength Egypts first born. Sernacheribs army Removing the stone from the sepulcher Peter in prison. Swiftness probably with the victory of thought. They possess moral excellency exalted goodness. Thy will be done -- They rejoice when will be done they rejoice when one sinner returns. Innumerable. They are of different ranks. They never reason why. Ministering spirits of God's appointment sure of their appointment no doubts. Our duty what falls to our hand do it for Gods glory The {illegible} of their service Objects of their service He is of salvation what is the nature of their administrations. Instructors, Deliverers, Comforters They will be busy on the great day They attend the Death bed of The Heirs of Salvation.

NOVEMBER. --11th Month == 1881. ==

7. MONDAY. [ 311- 54] Finished grouting between stonewall & stable Willie covered carrot pit. Got home a load of sand and another load of turnips into stable. Afternoon went to Kilsyth for a load of sawdust. Ann & Willie were at turnips pulled 12 drills The snow has gone very fast today nearly all gone. & I hope it will be long or it comes back. Hurray for turnips

8. TUESDAY. [ 312-53 ] Fine morning got pit ready & Bob & I brought home 10 loads. Part of roes were put into furrows which I opened in the morning & closed in evening. I think they contain 5 loads. Went twice round the furrow when coming in we will see how they keep. The pullers have left 22 drills to night so they will finish tomorrow if all well.

9. WEDNESDAY. [ 313-52 ] Fixed up pit at home & got home 6 loads forenoon had Jack Sinclair with us. Afternoon made pit on top of knoll and another on the end of potato land. Got in 10 loads in them & one home at night. We will take these pits into roothouse when we have it roofed. The pullers finished at 4 oclock. Cold wind today had a great amount of rain last night. Good days work done today

10. THURSDAY. [314 - 51 ] Had several Showers of snow this morning but cleared up a fine day but cold. Took straw to pits then drew the remainder of turnips into pit. 9 loads & one load home into stable. Afternoon took in load into stable then covering pits. Father trimmed up & covered with straw three long pits today & Willie & I covered the north side of these three with earth Great days work --


11. FRIDAY. [315 -50 ] Willie covered pits & I ploughed a piece more for turnips & 3 lands afternoon of barley stubble for oats next year. Took home a load of turnips off field into driving shed as there are signs of a storm. This has been a very fine day. Probably "The last Rose of Summer."


12. SATURDAY. [316 -49 ] Rainy morning & rain till noon. I made two halters of rope for mare and Prince. Afternoon fixing church chimneys. Evening at Kilsyth about rafters they will be cut on Wednesday. Blustery evening with showers of hail. Paid Gilles for boots 2.50 Harvest gloves 75c Ws Stone 10 3.35 Thomson for Willie boots 4.00 Jameson for two coats paint for gate 50c


13. SUNDAY. 22 after Trinity. [317 - 48] Mr Currie's text today Gal 5th & 16th. First what is implied by walking in or by the Spirit. Walking implies life but it also implies more. Conscious activity the Seas motion unconscious yet very active. We must also walk in the right direction. It must be progressive activity. There is a tendency to a certain routine of duties but no progress which cannot be walking in the spirit. How are we to walk in the spirit by walking according to the written word Also by yielding to the striving of God's Spirit Notice next the Grand results Free from fulfiling the lust of the flesh. --

== 1881. == 30 Days NOVEMBER

14. MONDAY. [ 318- 47] Snowy morning. Cleaned up grist 3 bags wheat 4 1/2 chop. Then took in 13 pills of potatoes & covered up pit for winter. Afternoon finished pit & built cedar fence beside fall wheat which was blown down. Finished grouting by putting on board higher than stone wall to let grout up to top under beam. Snow all gone at noon but we have had more showers this evening


15. TUESDAY. [319 -46 ] Last night was very stormy we have 5 in snow & cold. Shifted oats off peas & thrashed 4 small floorfulls. This has been more of a winters day than we have had yet but I hope it may go away yet so that we may get root house fixed off. This world is full of care & trouble whither you get it single or double


16. WEDNESDAY. [320 -45 ] Went to Kilsyth sawmill for rafters had 10 of them 2 X 9 two scantling 3x4 & some boards beside in all 300 feet which cost 75c Paid the Shingles and lumber I got before 2000 1/4 3.94 1.75 per 1000 180 ft lumber 1.06 in all 5.75 Had fair roads snow soft & going a little Afternoon framed rafters in barn we had a few drops rain. I hope it will be soft tomorrow


17. THURSDAY. [321 -44 ] Fine soft morning snow all gone. Got rafters on the walls. Scaffold down and drain dug round the floor & gravel hauled and filled into it. Home load of turnips out of field. Afternoon placed rafters and put outside sheeting on 3 feet up & inside sheeting to carry sawdust 4 feet. Then cut plank & lumber for spout to take in turnips. Evening made spout in back kitchen & a couplative conjunction


18. FRIDAY. [322 -43 ] Rainy night but dry day. Got spout up & into position. Finished under sheeting at 3 oclock then got sawdust grout in all over roof 5 in deep in sawdust over that again 1/3 of roof is ready for shingles. Uncle was here and finished pointing & beam filling so we have been very fortunate in having such a day & in being able to get the good of it. We have the roof all covered with boards laped over each other in case of rain, but I think it will be dry.


19. SATURDAY. [ 323-42 ] Had a few flakes of snow this morning. Went to Uncle Williams for a piece of pine to put under shingles at spout. Brought home load of sawdust with me from Maxwell's. Afternoon got in sawdust & on sheeting 5 feet of 1/2 of roof to do yet with sawdust Had on 4 courses of shingles at night then took in 1 load turnips which was the first load for the new house.


20. SUNDAY. 23 after Trinity. [324 - 41 ] Mr Currie text Gal 4th, 4th & 5th Notice first the time the Savior came into the world The fullness of time. Why did he not come sooner why so many dark ages. Had he come immediately after the fall man would not have had time to see sin and it's bitter fruit No time to foretell the event No expecting longing, looking, praying and hoping for and believing in the promised Messiah There was a regular fitness in the world at this time the Temple of Jannis at Rome was closed there being no war in the world The Jews in their wanderings carried their Bibles with them & spread the knowledge of the true God. Paul went where he found Jews and then he found a synagogue & people ready to hear. The world was sick of itself and finding its own power against sin and ignorance unavailing. The {illegible} expected him. Next the manner in which he came Sent forth from heaven presupposes his previous existence before he was sent Made or born of a woman stated at the time of the fall. Having existed previously he had to come in some manner. Under the law. All creatures & the universe under law. The Son of God above law, but placed himself under the law for a definite reason. To redeem them which were under the law so that his Father might receive us as sons.

NOVEMBER. 11th Month. == 1881. ==

21. MONDAY. [ 325- 40] Went for another load of Sawdust Afternoon finished sawdust and sheeting & had the half shingled by night

Snowy and cold.


22. TUESDAY. [326 -39 ] Shingling all day had it finished except the 3 last courses which will go under the beam & will be laid in mortar. Uncle Haverson & Mr Thom came here today. Mr Thom will leave on Thursday for Annan.


23. WEDNESDAY. [327 -38 ] Took in 3 loads turnips into roothouse Afternoon thrashing at R. McLeod's Willie thrashing peas & feeding.

Very cold day and thick showers of snow


24. THURSDAY. [328 - 37 ] Threshing at R. McLeod's all day Very cold day Mr Thom left today.


25. FRIDAY. [ 329- 36] At Tara Mills 3 bags grist 4 1/2 chopp. Paid Bruce for Clover turnip and other seeds 4.43 & 7c for glycerin A. Kerr for 28 bus lime @ 25c per bus 4.20 3 lbs Rope 40c Had sleigh out very storm day sleighing rather rough Hem steeples replaced 40c


26. SATURDAY. [ 330 - 35 ] A little soft to day so we were filling the root house Got the pit on the hill into the root house 11 loads. We think there was about 2 loads in before & now it is about 1/2 full.


27. SUNDAY. 1st in Advent [331 - 34 ] Mr Currie's text today I Kings 18th & 21st To whom was this addressed to the Heathen No they were decided. To {illegible} No for they professed to be decided. But to these who knew the true God yet {illegible} sin kept them from deciding. Notice how condescending God is The text expressed in the spirit of Come let us reason together. I forgot my pencil today

== 1881. == 30 & 31 DAYS NOVEMBER & DECEMBER.

28. MONDAY. [ 332 - 33] At Uncle Williams thrashing. The thrashing went well, ran steady all day. Beautiful winters day and good sleighing


29. TUESDAY. [333 - 32 ] Thawing so our sleighing is going. Drawing in turnips and a very pleasant day for the work. Got in remainder of largest pit in Orchard 10 loads so there will be about 22 loads in it now & it would hold more yet.

I hope we will now have some rest as far as drawing in turnips is concerned The rest of the laboring man is sweet --


30. WEDNESDAY. [334 -31 ] Snow all gone & quite a mess this morning. We were fixing root house roof putting shingles on under beam of stable. Filled space with mortar then drove the shingles up amongst it. We put on 3 courses shingled top of spout & put zinc on each side of it This has been a fine mild day & suited our work well.


1. DECEMBER -- THURSDAY. [335 - 30 ] The first day of the last month. Time's ever on the wing. Gather up lumber round root house ( & making order where chaos was before then) banked up both ends and a little alongside with the earth which came out of foundation Afternoon shut up the top of mangold pit put sawdust in spout of root house cleaned 3 bus peas Willie thrashed today & plastered some cracks in the horse stable to use up some left mortar. Evening mended ceiling of kitchen which came down. Father made plaster today {illegible} two


2. FRIDAY. [336 - 29 ] Plastered up some more cracks in stable had one bucket full of mortar. Took in potatoes one barrel and roothouse 8 pails in garrett. Afternoon took home some balsam trees Father & Willie lifted at beavermeadow to plant at roadside. Then put 5 loads manure on garden patch and ploughed it in. Father planted the balsams

Fine Fresh day


3. SATURDAY. [337 - 28] Ploughed land of sod as garden was too smal then drew stones for watering place 5 loads which will make it all right I think. Afternoon split wood & banked up house wheeling the earth from the old barn. Fine fresh day Willie was thrashing peas.


4. SUNDAY. 2 in Advent. [338 -27 ] Mr Currie's text to day Romans 5th & 8th The last thing you can get the natural man to believe is That God loves him. Notice first the objects of God's love Unworthy you unworthy me. God loved us in our sin not on account of it but notwithstanding. Found impatient sinners waiting & willing to pardon & provided a Saviour. Notice next the proof God has given of his love The gift of his dear Son . Men will never get another & this is sufficient. The text says he died for us willingly died in our room & stead. None of God's creatures could have taken our place, nor manifested his great love. God himself sacrificed for us

DECEMBER. -- 12th MONTH == 1881. ==

5. MONDAY. [ 339-26 ] Ploughing spring wheat stubble all day had Fan & Prince as Brisk is lame but I think will soon be all right Got a good piece turned over. I can finish it tomorrow forenoon health and weather permitting. Willie was thrashing peas.


6. TUESDAY. [340 -25 ] Ploughing all day. Got stubble finished at noon. I had to fix cattle at noon alone as Willie was at school today. Ploughing afternoon stumpy part of oat stubble it ploughs pretty well. I think we will sow it with oats & grass seeds & leave it or stumps come out. I measured our 2 Xmas cattle 1 6 ft the other Dotty 5 ft 10 in. $70 Time will tell


7. WEDNESDAY. [341 -24 ] At S. Carr's thrashing very stormy He has got up a good new house this year & is nearly finished


8. THURSDAY. [ 342- 23] Thrashing peas all day 5 bushels also some other chores & fixing cattle which is always under{illegible} Plastering evening


9. FRIDAY. [343 - 22] Started to put up two new stalls and cowstable got one nearly finished down part of pig pen which was in the way & tie poles home from bush.


10. SATURDAY. [ 344- 21] Forenoon at manger of two stalls made afternoon put up other stall finished tie ropes & poles Got calves tied in next roothouse & year olds into new stable very busy day. Tied cattle with lantern Sold our two fat heifers for $65 to Wilson. Chatsworth


11. SUNDAY. [345 -20 ] Our Minister being absent we had Mr D. Ross His subject was the different walks mention in Eph. First Eph 2 & 2 Walking according to the course of this world. 11 verse Walk in them good work 4th Ch 1st verse Walk worthy of the vocation where with ye are called. 17th verse Walk not as other Gentiles Walk 5 Ch 2nd Walk in love & 15th verse Walk circumspectly not as fools but as wise

== 1881. == 31 days DECEMBER.

12. MONDAY. [346 - 19] Took home Uncle W's trusels & returned bag of flour to Uncle G Afternoon got wheelbarrow repaired

Snow all gone once more


13. TUESDAY. [347 -18 ] At Chatsworth with heifers. Got there at noon. Weighed them one weighed 950 the other Dotty 840 they weighed more than I expected 1800 a@4c per lb $72. I wish we had weigh scales at Keady Rained all day had waterproof coat got ride home except 2 miles 10 minutes to 11 showers on the window pane.


14. WEDNESDAY. [ 348- 17] Got Mr. Duncan's kettle here set up started fire & carried water G.H. came down to give us a hand. We got on very well 3 pigs 2 very good pork & the other slightly poor We are to keep one of the best for summer pork.


15. THURSDAY. [ 349- 16] At O. Sound market had 8 bags of oats (cleaned up this morning) 2 pigs & 6 Ducks. Sold oats at 42c per bus pork at 7 per 100 ducks 1.30. 24 4/34 Oats $10.12 Pork 488 lbs $34.16 Oatmeal & sundries $2.28 House $10.00 Cochrane for 5 cows in calf 5.00 Devon's one saw in Pig 1.00 Father bought 2 steers at Alex Hall's sale $28 payable 12 months hence


16. FRIDAY. [350 -15 ] Threshing at Wesley Oliver's cold windy day


17. SATURDAY. [351 -14 ] Put up tie pole tied up new steers. Then payed Gillis 4.84 Thomson Shoemaker for a pair of calfskin boots 5.00 T Atkins for digging post holes 3.50 James McInnes for reaping 22 Acres 9.50 J. Thomson for 1/2 days work 50c Thats the way the money goes Let it go

Afternoon took home 2 loads wood with waggon (no snow) down load pea straw to log barn and small load to Miss Welch.


18. SUNDAY. 4th in Advent [352 -13 ] Isaiah 55 Ch. Ho everyone that thirsteth Etc Notice first the parties invited or rather one party under several names The thirsty Thirsty for riches worldly pleasures power & knowledge a curse, thirst for God and knowledge of him the right thirst & He that hath no money the poor in spirit The wretched & miserable & poor & blind & naked The hungry also To those who feel their need & them only. Next the fast Water Wine & Milk Water for the thirsty. This wine has in it and everlasting blessing. Milk spiritual food for young Christians what a glorious invitation to those who know their condition The terms First Come, leave all false Good 2nd Buy Christ bought it for you accept it. 3rd Eat, we must partake.

DECEMBER. 12th MONTH == 1881. ==

19. MONDAY. [ 353- 12 ] Got Brisk shod 2 new shoes. & piece of old iron & plough beam straighened to fix up his manger with. Fixed manger with it when I came home.

Afternoon cleaned out pig pen & fixed roof

Evening paid Hamilton $12.75 Ballance on townline chopping

Very dark night frost coming out of ground. A brillian light seen to N.N.E. some building burning

20. TUESDAY. [354 - 11] Cleaned up 14 bags Oats for O.S. on Thursday as Miss Bella is coming home. Afternoon pulled 4 drills turnips which was left at fence side & took them home to roothouse 2 half loads Will do well with store cattle

Today has been a very fine day a day one could hardly expect in middle of a Canadian winter. Like the winter days of Auld Lang Syne


21. WEDNESDAY. [355 -10 ] Cleaned & oiled the turnip cutter then tried the plough in piece of new land went pretty well. Afternoon ploughed till G. Haverson came over to me. He came down for turnip Straw cutter. Got load on to waggon for tomorrow. Rain tonight


22. THURSDAY. [ 356-9 ] Very rainy morning waited a long time for day light then fed the cattle turnips. Faired a little started for O.S. Sold 2 bags on the way for 6 bus at 42c = 2.50. 12 bags on Market 36 bus 27/34 lbs @ 42c $15.45.= 17.95. Spent 1.26. Got Miss Bella at Station. The G. Trunk bought the narrow gauge road & has widened it & put on their rolling stocks powerful locomotives making Toronto in 6 hours. Turned out fine day but cloudy, roads soft.


23. FRIDAY. [357 - 8 ] Ploughing all day, stumpy piece beside turnip land. By night the frost was getting rather hard. Two or three hours will finish it now


24. SATURDAY. [358 - 7 ] Thrashing peas two floors with flail Afternoon 3 with horses. We had a lamb died to day has been sick for four days. I think the ram must have hurt it. Did not get the peas cleaned up


25. SUNDAY. Christmas Day. [359 - 6] Our text today I Sm. 12 & 24. Samuel here would have the people consider the past & it would well for us at the end of the year to look back. How much we have to be thankful for. The Bible in our hands. The Gospel preached Light all around & the support of Christians their help & encouragement to witness for Christ. Oh how much to be thankful for. Therefore let us fear the Lord. Filial fear, honour & obedience. The fear of the Lord the beginning of wisdom. Then serve him in truth. Many would serve him but not in truth like Ananias & Sapphira. If not in truth it is no service. And we must serve with all our heart. Take our hearts Lord for we cannot give them to the keep them for we cannot keep them for Thee.

1881.

26. MONDAY. [360 -5 ]

Cleaned up some peas 10 bus I think Splitting wood & other chores. Afternoon at the Brown's he is getting better

Fine moon lit night and pleasant walking

27. TUESDAY. [ 361- 4 ]

Thrashing peas 4 floors took all day but they thrashed well & I think there will be a good four bushels.

28. WEDNESDAY. [362 -3 ] School meeting day. I was there till one oclock great wrangeling over $25 given to S,S, No 4. Bains on Jushe. Afternoon took Miss B. up to Marmion with waggon. Ground soft & no snow. Strange weather.

Paid James Atchion 75 cents for help in haying. Paid taxes $37.38


29. THURSDAY. [363 - 2] Went up to Uncle Havenson's on a visit. At their annual tea meeting at night had good time.

Splendid Music. Tame speeches Good cakes & tea but no sleighing. They realized between $60 - $70.


30. FRIDAY. [364 - 1] Came home forenoon ground white this morning with a little frost on the ground. Afternoon drew home 4 loads wood with sleigh. Snowing to night. I hope we may have sleighing for New Years day.


31. SATURDAY. [ 365. ]

Hitched up to draw wood for Mr. Currie but roads were very rough took loan loud of our own until the loads get little. We had quite a lit of snow this morning & has snowed more on less all day. Bob & Willie took in barrel potatoes & split lot of wood. I was thrashing peas afternoon. Made halter & tied colt into stall he was quiet. led him to water at night. I guess he will miss his mothers milk to night.

So we have reached the end of another year, & we feel that we have been in the hand of Him who does all things well. we cannot, therefore, but trust him for the untried future, for it is all in His hand.

During the past year all our work has gone smoothly we had no trouble with bush fires which are very prevelant. the harvest very pleasant and winter snow found us with a good store root house. As to health, I have not been a day in bed that I remembere. Thank goodness & mercy has followed us.-- --

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James Bremner Jr., “James Bremner Jr. Diary, 1881,” Rural Diary Archive, accessed September 19, 2025, https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/items/show/433.

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  28. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_028.pdf
  29. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_029.pdf
  30. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_030.pdf
  31. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_031.pdf
  32. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_032.pdf
  33. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_033.pdf
  34. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_034.pdf
  35. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_035.pdf
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  37. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_037.pdf
  38. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_038.pdf
  39. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_039.pdf
  40. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_040.pdf
  41. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_041.pdf
  42. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_042.pdf
  43. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_043.pdf
  44. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_044.pdf
  45. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_045.pdf
  46. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_046.pdf
  47. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_047.pdf
  48. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_048.pdf
  49. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_049.pdf
  50. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_050.pdf
  51. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_048.pdf
  52. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_049.pdf
  53. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_050.pdf
  54. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_051.pdf
  55. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_052.pdf
  56. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_053.pdf
  57. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_054.pdf
  58. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_055.pdf
  59. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_056.pdf
  60. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_057.pdf
  61. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_058.pdf
  62. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_059.pdf
  63. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_060.pdf
  64. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_061.pdf
  65. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_062.pdf
  66. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_063.pdf
  67. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_064.pdf
  68. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_065.pdf
  69. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_066.pdf
  70. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_067.pdf
  71. JamesBremnerJrDiary_1881_068.pdf
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