Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

Joseph Tarver and his son Esau Tarver of Handy Water Farm who received notice to leave their two acre allotments this Michaelmas independently brought me a notice this morning that they would give up their allotments Oct. 11 1885. They have already held them nearly two years since taking their farm, which is contrary to the intention of the Trustees, and simply want to wear the land out. I have already let both the 2 acre pieces as I have understood all along that they were going out this Michaelmas.

I therefore wrote to Fortescue & Sons, Solicitors of Banbury stating the case and asking them to write to them on behalf of the trustees.

Funeral of Miss Stevens at Swalcliffe. Mr Payne and myself officiated. Mr and Mrs Stevens, Miss Dix and myself went down in Mourning Coach. My carriage took Bell, Frank and Miss S Dix. Called on Payne afterwards. Miss Dix took tea here – and Miss S Dix came in afterwards.

My cold still troublesome.

Bell caught a severe cold yesterday and did not go out all to day.

Rosa is not so well. My cough is somewhat troublesome and colds are extremely prevalent, owing I suppose to the change in the weather.

Wake Monday. School children have holiday. Fine day. Sharp frost last night.

Received a letter from Messrs Fortescue saying they had written to the Tarvers threatening legal proceedings if they did not immediately give up the allotments.

Received letter from Mr Curry who is at present in Ireland but returns to Stratford this week.

Visited Mrs Austin Gardner, Joseph Dale and School.

Fine day. Mrs Shelswell called.