Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

1878, December 24, Tuesday 

Snow being rather deep on the ground I renewed my cold yesterday by getting wet-footed.

Visited John West. His wife said he had to look after cattle on Sundays and consequently had not opportunity of coming to church.

Thomas Henry Hone. His wife said he always came to church if he could but he had cattle to tend on Sundays.

Charles Legge. His wife ?seemed? very grateful for present of grocery. Said she preferred church but with one baby and a child of 3 she could not well get out as her husband was a bad hand at minding children.

Sarah Young – not at home. Benjamin Aris her father.

Widow Mary Hone – said her daughter Emily was in situation in London. She had charge of her children who were too young to be left, so that she could not get to church. Her son who works for Mr Hitchcox, always comes to church once a day she says. Her daughter, Mr Hollands’ wife came in and gave her a parcel of grocery.

Thomas Sabin says he is over 80 and afraid to get out just now lest he should fall down.

William Barton, His wife says the boy William walked home from Pillerton Priors last Sunday.

Charles Coleman, No one at home. Widow Austin

Charles Hands, whose allotment rent is still unpaid – not at home.

Sally Green – very mad. Mrs Shelswell taken ill with Erysipelas.

Gave Charles Barnes and his mother 2s 6d of grocery each out of Mr Hopkins’s donation.

1878, December 25, Wednesday 

Christmas Day. Holy Communion offertory 18s 11d. Very severe weather and consequently rather small congregations – 31 communicants.

Visited Mrs Mawle who is somewhat better but still confined to her room. I have been very hoarse with cold all day.

1878, December 27, Friday

Thaw. Cough and sore throat better but did not go out. Roads very bad. Postman did not arrive until 1 o’clock.

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Read about the Rev Edward Stevens here.