Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

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.

Sharp frost last night. Very fine day.

Dr Franey Medical Officer of Health of Banbury Union called and said the day and Sunday Schools should be closed on account of Scarlatina in the parish. There are 6 cases at Sibford Ferris. He promised to send a certificate for the purpose of getting the proper grant. I went to the school, told Mr and Mrs Langley and informed the children that the Schools would be closed on Sundays and week days.

A delightful day. H.C. at 8 am. 20 Communicants: at noon 34. Collections for Churchwardens’ fund £2. 12. 4. Mary Thame played Harmonium. Walter Bishop and John Barton came into Church very late this afternon soon after some girls (Mr Oddie‘s servants I believe) who also came in very late. Bishop and Barton began to peer after the girls and to laugh and talk as soon as they came in. It reached a climax when I began my sermon. I stopped and looked at Bishop but he took no notice and still continued his bad behaviour. He put up his feet on the bench and leaned against the end, put his hand to his mouth and talked to Barton whom I could not see as John Routh was sitting in front of them, but who appeared to be in a similar attitude at the other end of the seat. At last I ordered Walter Bishop to leave the church if he could not behave properly. He left with great noise. As I left the Church after service the two were standing together by the roadside smoking their pipes. Evidently Barton was sympathizing with Bishop. I spoke to them both. They were excessively saucy at first. I never before knew any one behave as they did. But they both had tears in their eyes when I bade them “Good night” and left them. Bishop, after a night’s consideration, made an apology to Mr Woolgrove as Churchwarden and said he would not do it again.

Another lovely day. Bell and I walked to Sibford Ferris to enquire about the Scarlet fever cases. There appear to be 10 cases at the least, but all are doing well.

The Band marched out this evening and played in front of the Vicarage. I sent them out 2/-.

Coming out of Church we met Mr Oddie who told us that two of his pupils were down with pneumonia. He was naturally very much concerned about it.