Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

Went to Banbury. Took Rosa. Called on Dr Routh who told me that William Reason a young man of Sibford Ferris was ill – his lungs being to a certain extent consolidated. He said wine would do him good and I promised to send him some.

Ann Fox’s brother, a man living at Wolverhampton as horse keeper called this evening about his sister. He had been trying to get Sally Green out of her cottage so as to put his sister there to live and that the shop next door might be let and the rent thereof go to Ann’s support – but he was unsuccessful – and Bonner told him he could not well turn Sally into the street. He said Ann was not fit to be alone – that since her illness she had given way to drink very much – that she was not compos mentis – but that they did not know what to do with her as she was very obstinate.

John Harris junior called this evening – as I sent for him this morning to pay him his bill. He had not made up his mind to marry Ann Coleman.

Preached harvest thanksgiving sermon at Brailes this afternoon whilst Mr Atkinson curate preached for me here.

Visited School, Ann Bond who lies quite insensible apparently. She cannot hear at all – but looks well cared for. Visited Mrs Pearce.

Visited J Payne, Mr G Dix who has recently removed from Swalcliffe and is lodging at Mr W Fox’s – but he was not at home. Visited Mr William Fox.

Visited Canon Payne and told him that John Harris junior denied to me that any other women than Ann Coleman were enciente by him. It had been reported here that a Swalcliffe girl was in trouble by him and as I had mentioned the rumour to Canon Payne i thought it right to acquaint him with Harris’s denial.

Drove to Banbury and brought out parcel of books for Lending Library. Annie Smith came to stay for a few days.

Annual Tea Meeting of the members of the Library took place in the Schoolroom this evening. 81 sat down to tea. We had singing and readings afterwards and a very comfortable evening was spent.

Attended meeting at Town Hall Banbury for formation of a Sunday School teachers’ association for the neighbourhood in connexion with the Church of England Sunday School Institute. Canon Payne was in the chair. The Association was established. Rosa accompanied me. It was intensely cold.

Went to Savings’ Bank to business of Sibford Penny Bank.