Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

I went up to the school this afternoon to see how Horsman was getting on with his job of laying the slate slabs at the door in place of the old broken stones. I thought he and his boy had gone away as I could see no one, but walking to the rear of the school found them both lying on the ground asleep with their backs propped up against the wall. I did not disturb them, but before I left I saw the boy peeping about, and allowed him to see me. Then I walked away. The weather was very sultry which may be some excuse for them: and I dare say the man’s nights have been somewhat disturbed during his wife’s illness.

Harry returned to Kentisbury, but I had to lend him the money for his travelling expenses.

Visited Joseph Messenger. Miss S. Dix called.

Received copies of the De Senectute and De Bello Gallico in the Latin English Series from Butler & Tanner.

Bonner, Relieving Officer, and White, Sanitary Officer, called.

Very hot day. Married George Hone and Elizabeth Miles. I took Boys Sunday School both morning and afternoon, Mr Elley being away for his holidays.

Rain last night. John Bonner and his wife came this morning to take Sally Green before Mr Norris with the view to take her to Littlemore. She resisted so much that he had to put the “straight jacket” on her. He then got her up into a cart and took her away. He came to me once or twice, but I told him I had better not go in as she was always worse with her best friends when her insane fits were on her.

Once the straight waistcoat was on she was quiet enough – so Bonner told me afterwards. Mr Norris signed the warrant without any difficulty. When they arrived at Littlemore, Sally curtsied to the doctors and attendants and soon made herself at home.

Visited Montagu at his quaint little Rectory of Thenford near Farthinghoe, about 4 miles the other side of Banbury. Humphrey, Rector of Thorpe Mandeville came there to luncheon with us. We spent a very pleasant day and Humphrey drove me to the station in the evening.

I gave Webb a week’s holiday, beginning today, when he went to Oxford, after driving me into Banbury. Gave him £1 for expenses.

Austin Gardner called and spoke to me again about Harry’s hiring his horse and dogcart and not paying him. I told him that I knew he had not the means of paying him before he left but that he would probably send him the money in a few days. If he did not pay him I would, but only for this occasion.

Drove to Banbury and brought out Katie Mountain.