Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

Harry left for Bridlington on a visit to Mr and Mrs John Cooper.

Funeral of Ann Coles of Sibford Ferris, aged 74.

Visited school.

Visited Mrs Woolgrove and Mrs Jarvis who wishes to be confirmed. Her parents were Dissenters – and she was not baptized till after she was married. She was then living at Middleton Cheney and was baptized by Rev Mr Buckley.

Visited Dorcas Scruby.

Drove Bell, Rosa, Chrissie and Frank to Swalcliffe, Tadmarton, Shutford and Epwell. Called at Mr Montagu who was not at home.

Snow storm.

Received telegram from Kirkland who is at Liverpool postponing his return from today till Monday.

Humphrey Sabin’s wife called this evening with a small loaf of bread made from “cone” wheat which her husband begged me to accept without any offence to taste. It was very dark in colour but tasted very well.

She said her little girl had returned from the hospital somewhat better. They could not keep her any longer as they were so full.

I told her the Trustees had decided that at present her husband should not be called on to pay more than 1d per week for the education of his children, the Doctor having stated that he was ill half his time and other Trustees knowing him to be badly off. I told her she must not expect that the Trustees would always allow him to come under the lower rate. The arrangement was only for the present. She appeared grateful.

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.