Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

Took Religious Instruction in School from 9 – 10 this morning.

William Webb’s 2nd girl on going past pond to Joshua Messenger’s this morning was attacked by a gander which frightened her very much and caused a commotion, but did not injure her otherwise than by giving her a few bruises on the leg with his wings.

Called on Mrs Dix. Drove Bell and Rosa and Frank to Balscott and called on Mr Anderson the curate, not at home. Also to Wroxton and called on Mr Izatt, not at home. Also to Epwell and called on Mr Montagu not at home.

Library Committee Meeting at 7 pm. A full attendance. Decided to spend £5 on new books and to have a tea meeting on Wednesday week – also to print catalogue.

Visited School at 11 am and called Registers.

Visited Widow Young. Her boy Albert has left his situation – near Stratford – “They gave him only the ends and corner of bacon to eat – kept him to sleep in same sheets for twelve months – were a very bad lot – father nearly always drunk and quarreling and fighting with his wife, sons and daughters – such goings on as were not fit to be named.” How much of this account is true I don’t know – But Widow Young gave the boy a good character – He brought all his year’s wages £5 home to her except 4/- which he had had during the year. He has not been able to get another place and is now engaged breaking stones on the road.

Visited Benjamin Aris, Ezra Green (not in), Dale, Turvey, Mrs Shelswell.

Mr Timmins of Hook Norton Leas sent me 4/- for offertory last Sunday.

Joseph Alcock asked me to let him have an allotment – I told him I would if I could, that I was not aware of any being vacant at the Heath at present – and that married men with families had first offer.

Went to Banbury to meeting of Subcommittee for Election of Choirmaster of Deddington Deanery Choral Association and Organist of Adderbury. We met at Old Bank – Mr Cobb being one of Subcommittee as Churchwarden of Adderbury. The other members were Mr Gepp and Mr Highton. We succeeded in making a selection of 5 or 6 candidates.

Visited Mary Wilks – Her mother asked whether the Trustees would help pay her doctor’s bill £1.18. Mary’s mind is evidently deranged under her repeated fits.

Bought shawl for G. Spicer’s mother, Widow Careless.