Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

One of Mr. R. Lamb’s sons called and asked me to sign a petition for the entire closing of public houses on Sundays. I signed it as I think it would be a good thing on the whole – but I told him distinctly that I should have signed it with less reluctance if it had proposed to allow the houses to be open for an hour or two for the sale of beer not to be consumed on the premises. For that Rich men could get what they wanted in their Clubs and it was not well to propose one law for the rich and another for the poor. Remembering the riots which took place in London a few years ago when a similar law to what this petition proposes was passed but which was soon repealed I told him I thought it very unlikely to be successful.

Went to Oxford to try on clothes at Taylor’s. Called on Mr Hughes. He was leaving for London that afternoon. I took Mr Kirkland with me.

Richard Haynes’s baby died.

Frost which began in the middle of the week continues.

Going to Sunday School this morning I saw Edward Spicer who should have been in his class sliding in the middle of the road. He went on although he saw me. I spoke to him for some time and was much grieved at his apparent callousness – in fact he seemed quite idiotic in his manner. However, he did not slide again and I was glad to see him in Church afterwards.

Visited Sunday School this morning and took a class. Walked and talked with Isaac Padbury this afternoon.

Walked to Winderton Church this evening with Mr. Kirkland but the service commenced before we could get in, so we returned. The Church was crowded half an hour before service commenced.

Mrs Mawle is ill with bronchitis.