Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

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.

Received a note from Mrs Mann saying she had “taken the liberty” of allowing her daughter Emma, who was applying for a situation, to mention my name as a referee. I told her in reply that I should be happy to be of any service I could.

Drove Bell and Frank to Banbury.

Jesse Bishop called to ask whether we had come to any decision about the Farm. I replied that we were waiting for a communication from him and Austin if they wished to keep on, for that it was no use to decide anything with respect to them unless we knew before hand whether it was likely to meet their views.

Charles Barnes called and said the coals had been distributed in a very satisfactory manner by Harris of Hook Norton. I settled with him for superintendence etc. He said there were some grumblers at Burdrop who were dissatisfied at having to wheel a few yards the coals given to them. I told him to refer all grumblers to me and tell them that if they made rude remarks in his presence to tell them that he took it for granted that they wished them to come to my ears.

Received papers respecting School Inspection from Education Department. Visited School this afternoon and Brass Band practice this evening.

Visited my tenant’s children who have diseased bones (a boy and a girl). They have undergone several operations at the Radcliffe and have recently been to a sanatorium at Margate whence they returned a few days ago. They are nice children and much to be pitied.

Bell and I walked round Tyne Hill and Sibford Ferris.

Advent Sunday. Snow. No choir practice this evening.