Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

Frank followed the hounds by road to Traitors Ford and Compton Wynyates. Did not return to his studies until 6.45.

Paid William Hall 2/- a day for hedging on the glebe.

Visited Miss Dix. She tells me there is another disagreement at the Reading Room (Dixon’s). They have a bagatelle board but quarrel because they cannot all play at once.

William Barnes’s children have scarlatina.

Miss Sarah Dix called this evening about Mrs Norris’s proposal that we in Sibford should subscribe a sum of £8 a year for a parish Nurse. I told her I did not see the need of a parish nurse. There had been no need for one since I had been here and money was very scarce.

I attended a meeting of the Brass Band. Complaint was made of Thomas Lamb’s non attendance at practice and his consequent inefficiency with the drum. The members also wanted their balance sheet for last year drawn up. It was decided that John West, as Secretary should ask him to bring his books to me to make up the balance sheet and come to the meeting.

The Dean of Christ Church was in Sibford today looking at the College property. He did not call here. Mr Woolgrove told me last Saturday that he was coming and said he thought he might call on me. I replied that I did not think he would as we were not acquainted, officially or otherwise.

John West called this evening with Band account Book which took some time to unravel.

I hear that Dixon has what he calls the “Sibford Chronicle” which he has printed in slips to hang up in the Reading room or give to the Members. It is of the character of the old “Paul Pry” I understand, and if he does not desist in time, is likely to get into trouble about it. He has already “attacked” if I am right in using the word, Robert Austin, his former apprentice F. Ward, Lewis Poulton and R. H. Lamb.