Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

Frost continues. Hail this evening followed by snow two or three inches deep at least.

Received letter from Rev J Hodgson Vicar of Bloxham about Mary Ann Barton concerning whom as a probable candidate for confirmation I had written to him. He had seen the girl who did not seem desirous to be confirmed and her mistress Mrs William Robinson of the Unicorn, Bloxham thought her too young and could not well spare her. He speaks very highly of Mrs Robinson.

I received deed relating to Slinket from Mr Kinch Solicitor of Deddington October 10, 1876 and sent it on to the Warden of New College.

Holy Communion. 8/9 offertory. Thaw and fog. Drove to Winderton at Mr Smith’s request to help him in the Service, Mr Thoyts being ill. It was very bad travellling and very slippery – I fell down on the icy roadway at Winderton but did not hurt myself. I took Kirkland and Webb with me. Congregation was what one would expect at Winderton on such a night – apparently only Winderton people.

Gave out coal tickets at School at 9 am. Heard children the Church catechism and spoke to them about their manners.

Received Inspector’s report of School – grant £31. 7.

Took Penny Bank at 12, Mrs Turner whose turn it was to help being confined to house with bad cough.

Visited Edward Holland and William Holland.

Went to Banbury and paid various accounts.

Called on the Misses Dix.

Received a second contribution (for poor) of one guinea from Rev J D Hopkins, 1 The Close, Southsea.

Held confirmation classes as before.

Visited Thomas Sabin, Widow Henry Sabin who was in bed with a cold, Barton whose wife said her daughter Mary Ann told her she wished to be confirmed and that she and her father wished it; that the father was going to see her on Thursday and would speak to her about it.

Visited James Rimell, Thomas Padbury and Joseph Gibbs.