Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

The school children had their “May Garland” tea in the schoolroom and afterwards played in the slinket. I took occasion to complain of some children who went round with an independent garland to get what money they could for themselves and yet came to tea with the others. Millicent Spicer was the one I particularly alluded to though I did not mention her name. I said it would not be permitted in future. Moreover she never comes to the day school.

Wrote to Mr Fortescue of Banbury about the missing deed.

My first turn as Manager at the Banbury Savings Bank. Received £330.15.

Paid Cave £25.10 for charity coals.

Met Mr Payne on returning from Banbury. He knows nothing of the missing deed.

Mr and Mrs Routh junior called. Mr R told me as Mr Payne did yesterday that there had been two fatal cases of scarlet fever at Tadmarton during the past week. Mr Payne thought it would spread, Mr Routh thought not.

Called on the Misses Dix this evening by request to meet Mr Henry Sheorns, son of the late vicar of Swalcliffe. Took supper with them.

Received letter from Mr Fortescue stating that he forwarded last feoffment deed to Mr Payne on conclusion of business relating to sale of cottages belonging to the Charity and that he had Mr Payne’s receipt for the same. Sent Mr Payne his letter.

Posted at church door the notice respecting new feoffment as required by the Charity Commissioners.

Visited Mrs Hands, Mrs Shelswell and her patient Miss West, an elderly lady who is of unsound mind. Mr Routh tells me her delusion is that she is “reprobate of God”. But she is a person who has led a religious life and always busied herself in doing good.

Visited Boys’ Sunday School, also Sarah Green. Attended choir practice this evening.

Preached sermons morning and afternoon for Curates’ Augmentation Fund. The offertories amounted to £1.3.9.

Met Mrs Tennant this evening and had some conversation with her.

Drove to Brailes. Sent £1.3.9 to Curates’ Augmentation Fund.

Canon Payne called; said that he did not remember anything about the missing deed.

Wrote to Messrs Munton and Stockton, Solicitors, Banbury asking whether they knew anything about the missing deeds.