Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

Taught in Sunday School this afternoon.

As I passed “the Cross” on my way to Sunday School this afternoon, I observed William Spicer, Austin’s elder apprentice, and several others snowballing one another. They were all, I think, young men who attend the Methodist Chapel. I spoke to them about their conduct. I was pleased to see them all at Church afterwards.

Visited Mrs Shelswell and Mr Whate and the Rimells.

Drove Rosa and Chrissie to Banbury and took luncheon with Mr and Mrs Henderson. Left Rosa there.

Held girls’ Confirmation class at Mrs Elley’s at 3 pm and boys in Schoolroom at 7. Went to Church Missionary Society’s meeting at Brailes; took Webb. Kirkland walked in afternoon and returned with me.

Received notice from Rev Mr Barker, Diocesan Inspector that he would visit School on Feb 18.

H. M. Inspector Mr Phelps (in place of Rev H. A. Pickard who is ill) assisted by Mr Eley visited the school. The Inspection went off very quietly. They began at 10.30 and finished with the children shortly after 12. They went to Swalcliffe to lunch with Canon Payne and inspect his school.

Called on the Misses Dix.

Marion Harris one of my servants is laid up with bronchitis and attended by Doctor.

Visited school. Gave half crowns for attendance to 50 children who had made 250 attendance during the year and were present on the day of Inspection.

Distributed clothing tickets for Town Estate this evening and during the day.

Visited George Spicer, Solomon Geydon, Joseph Gibbs, Ezra Green, Sarah Hone, Ann Fox, Eliza Lamb, Widow Henry Sabin, William Barlow, Charles Coleman, Thomas Coleman, John Coleman, Benjamin Aris, George Messenger, Charles Legge, Sally Green.

Reuben Sabin’s wife came to school room this evening for clothing ticket. I told her she would not receive benefits of the charity in future as her husband had gone into business. But I sent her a present of 10/6 worth of calico and flannel for her children.

Betty Wilks came for her ticket. I gave it her, but told her that she must not expect the Trustees to continue it as a “Charity” was not well bestowed in such a case as hers. I told her I should give it her till the Trustees ordered her name to be removed from the list.