Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

Coal distribution commenced by Harris, of the “Bell” Hook Norton at £1.1s. per ton for “Best Hard Brights”, a saving of 4/- per ton on what we have hitherto paid. he has been getting coals to Hook Norton by the new Railway and wants to get a business together in that way, having 8 or 10 horses which have been employed on the line. But the contractor has fallen out with the company and has removed his plant. So the work is at a standstill. Even the temporary rails. So Harris had to bring the coal from Banbury by road, which was in a bad state owing to snow and thaw and frost.

Visited W. Payne, Decimus Alcock, Edward Fox, George Spicer, W. Coleman (out), John West, Charles Legge, Thomas Henry Stone, D. Hone Junior, Elizabeth Manning, Thomas Lively, Fanny Wyatt, John Lamb, Benjamin Messenger, Ezra Green, Eliza Harris, Widow Thomas Lamb.

Rev H. Trevor Wiliamson of Bredwardine, one of those who answered my advertisement in the Church Times on behalf of William Webb, sent for the boy who went to him today, driving to Moreton in the Marsh. If he seems likely to suit he is to stay, wages £8 the first year, all found and one suit. Railway journey to be paid.

Thomas Lamb, Band Treasurer called and said he had received 21/- from Mrs Morris (late Harris) of Loraine Road, Holloway as a contribution to the funds of the Band, and asked me to write and thank her which I did.

A considerable fall of snow.

Visited Mr George Dix and attended Brass Band practice this evening.

Met William Coleman and spoke to him about the Sibford Ferris allotment late ??? to young Tarver, which I had agreed to let Coleman have for half rent the first year. He said it was in a much worse state than he imagined. I told him if I saw him doing his best to get it round I would perhaps let him have it the first year for nothing. He promised to do his best with it.

Visited: School this afternoon, John Horsman and his wife, Ann Fox.

Robert Austin called to ask whether the Trustees had settled anything about the Farm. I replied that they had not, and that it was no use for them to settle anything unless they had reason to believe the other side would accept their decision.

Visited Mr Woolgrove and asked him to settle with the Farm Committee as to the time for going over the farm.