Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

Visited Canon Payne – he was ill in bed with bronchitis and I did not see him.

Visited C. Holder.

Miss Dix called this evening.

Attended Committee of Brass Band at the practice room at 7.30.

Attended Ruridecanal Chapter at Cropredy (Dr W. Wood’s).

Had a meeting for C.M.S. in evening in my Schoolroom. Mr Mantle one of the Society’s agents exhibited Magic Lantern with views of China, Japan, etc. Mr Smith, of Brailes and his Curate, and son in law Mr Garrard brought Mr Mantle here. He had to leave early because of a telegram announcing his father’s serious illness. Mr Smith continued and conducted the lecture. The collection amounted to 30/-.

Attended Board of Guardians Meeting at Banbury. Took Frank – Webb drove. Called at Bloxham on way home and took lunch with Mr and Mrs Ommanney.

William Webb, son of my groom and gardener called and begged my pardon for all he had done wrong (though he had done me no wrong) and would I be kind enough to see if I could get him a Situation. I had some serious talk with him about his conduct to the manager of the Temperance Hall at Banbury when he was there – and reminded him that I had told him very particularly to leave his situation in a proper manner if he found it did not suit him. I said I would do what I could for him this time, but he must not expect me to do so again if he behaved ill. He must go and earn a character for himself, and the sooner he got away from Sibford the better.

The Bandsmen called this evening and paid me some more money which they had collected on my letter.