Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

Distribution of coal commenced. I had ordered 17 tons. James Barnes superintended.

Drove Mr Wells the Choir Master to Bloxham on his way to Adderbury where he had to give some music lessons and get back to Tadmarton and Swalcliffe for choir practice the same evening.

Visited Mr Ellis, Widow Cakebread, Widow Legge. Humphrey Sabin, William Payne’s wife, (not at home) John Padbury (Mrs Payne was there) Joshua Lines, Mrs John Holloway, Thomas Rimell (whose wife had been to my house to ask for an allotment for him). I could not promise him one. Reason who is voluntarily confined to his bed, but appears less insane than when I last saw him.

Mr Fox is building a stable in his garden adjoining the School. he asked me to see that he was not encroaching. I examined the line, and it appears to be fair.

Walked to Epwell to ask Montagu whether Elizabeth Hawtin would be likely to suit us as cook. She was staying at his house, but was not then in. he promised to speak to her and send her over, or write to me. He seemed in doubt as to whether she would be equal to the place, as she is delicate.

Stormy with snow.

Visited Benjamin Messenger’s wife. Talked to her seriously and gave her her coal-ticket. She seemed somewhat affected at what I said to her.

Visited Mrs Ellis, and read and prayed with her husband, who seemed however to be scarcely conscious of what I said to him.

Called on Tennant at the Bishop Blaise Inn about the chief rent due to the Lord of the Manor. He said he had not the receipts, but as soon as he got them he would call on me.

I had made a mistake on Thomas Hone’s coal ticket, allowing for only 2 children instead of 4. I therefore gave 2 cwt more.

Told Poulton to begin repairs at Heath Farm. Fox ditto.

Mrs Miller returned form for Commissioners of Charity. Sent it to Mr ?Dickins? of Cherington to sign.

Visited Mrs Ellis. Did not see her husband. Mr Enoch and Mr Routh Senior having been there today to see him, on will business I inferred from what Mrs Ellis said.

Lewis Poulton called about Heath repairs. I paid him a small private account owing for last year.

Mr Hitchcox called this afternoon. he said the Farmers here ought to combine to withstand the demands of the labourers, but that Richard Lamb would not join. He said also that he feared the action of the union and the refusal to lend the club dinner things would cause the break-up of the club.

Taught in Boys’ Sunday School this morning.

Visited Mrs Hands, Widow Cakebread. (J. Sabin and A. Fox not at home). Widow Legge, who appears to be not far from her End. Humphrey Sabin, Mrs Ellis, the Misses Dix.

Attended the Choir practice.