Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

…This evening Vere was very much the worse for drink. I remonstrated with him very severely and told him he must leave my house tomorrow.

Mr. Vere apologised for his bad conduct this morning and seemed really sorry. I spoke very seriously to him about his intemperate habits, and offered to sign the “total abstinence pledge” for 6 months if he would do so, but he thought he could not do that. However, he signed the appended promise.

February 17. 1883

I promise solemnly not to sit in a public house in future, nor on any occasion to take more than a pint of ale for refreshment during an afternoon or evening and as a rule not to take any intoxicating drink except at meals. God being my helper.

Vere Jones Vere