Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

Widow Eleanor Hone called to ask for help to buy shoes for one of her boys who was going out to service. I gave her some assistance (10/- for two boys) and spoke about her Banns of Marriage with Henry Mumford which would run out in a few weeks, and that they would be available only for 3 months after publication. Understanding that the man was living in her house, I told her that ought not to be, and that she should send him away. She said the marriage was to come off shortly.

Jane Haynes called and asked for some money off her clothing ticket to buy boots. I gave her what she needed and 1/6 besides.

Miss Sarah Dix called this afternoon.

Thomas Lamb, Richard Gaydon and John West called as a deputation from the “Sibford Brass Band”, and I gave them a letter to take to persons likely to subscribe towards the purchase of instruments.

St Luke’s Day. Divine Service at 9.15 am.

Churched Mrs Spraggett.

William Barnes’ wife called about an allotment and said she was not sure her husband would be able to come up to the Schoolroom this evening to the Rent Audits. I replied that if he wanted an allotment he had better be there.

John Horsman’s daughter called and asked me to give her a note for Bonner, the Relieving Officer, as her father and mother were destitute.

Visited Joshua Lines, Anna Aris (out), Thomas Barnes, Leaver, and Widow William Keen.

Rent night for Sibford Heath Allotments. I let several 2 acre pieces, and explaining to the new tenants what the Tarvers had done, without mentioning their names, and how unfair it was that Farmers should retain allotments intended for Lanourers and small tradesmen, called upon them to sign an agreement to give up peaceable possession on receiving six months to do so from the Treasurer to the Trustees, the notice to expire at Michaelmas. They all saw the force and reasonableness of the request, and  all, new and old two acre tenants, signed quite cheerfully.

Taught in Boys’ School this morning and attended the Choir practice this evening.

The weather is charming – quite a St Luke’s Summer. The Autumn has been very fine throughout.

Attended Penny Bank at School at 12 o’clock – only one depositor came and she brought 6d.

Received note from Mr Henry Norris of Swalcliffe Park about the Brass Band. he said he would give them a sovereign – but suggested that a rule should be made to the effect that there should be no performance of the Band on Good Fridays, as that was done at Shutford, much to the annoyance of the inhabitants.

John West, Thomas Lamb and Thomas Manning, members of the Band called on me this evening and handed me £2.9.6 which they had collected.