Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

Visited Hannah Keene who had a “stroke” yesterday, and fell down in her cottage near fireplace whilst washing up after breakfast. No one went to the cottage till 7 or 8 at night when Long the baker, her landlord, went to see whether she was safe. He got help and I found her well cared for. I have always feared that the poor old woman would be either burnt to death or be taken ill and suffer for hours – or even die – without help, as her cottage is a lonely one up the yard behind the Baker’s at Sibford Ferris.

Visited Hannah Simmons and William Fox.

Baptized child of Thomas Adams, junior, of Blenheim.

Visited Boys’ and Girls’ Schools and taught Choir this evening.

Mary Evans, sister of Eliza Barnes widow of my late clerk, died. She was at one time housemaid in service of Mr Lea rector of Tadmarton. Her health became somewhat delicate, so he set her to teach the village children in a small “dame school.” She has been of feeble intellect for many years and in very delicate health.

Taught in School this morning.

Mr Mann who is Way Warden came to me and asked me to look at a place in Church Close which wanted draining because a footpath in adjoining field belonging to Major Goddard, and tenanted by Lewis Poulton, was almost always wet. He seemed to think that I was legally responsible for the water in Major Goddard’s field because there was a small place in mine which wanted draining. I showed him the absurdity of such a notion, but at the same time said that as a neighbour etc I was quite willing to set a good example, and if he, as Way Warden, would get the matter done to his satisfaction, I would pay the cost.

Visited John Barnes’s wife, who is ill, and administered to her and her daughter and Mrs S. the Holy Communion.

Visited D. Hone and Widow James Barnes.

Attended meeting of Banbury Clerical Club at Wigginton Rectory. Drove through Swalcliffe Grange Farm and took Frank as far as Wigginton Heath to open the gates. It was intensely cold. On my return, through Hook Norton, I met Dr Routh who asked me whether I would be willing to superintend Examination of School of Art at Sibford Friends’ School. He is Secretary but could not undertake the matter entirely. I said I would do what I could.

Mrs Davies was here to tea. Miss S. Dix called.