Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

1894, August 21, Tuesday 

Light rain almost all day. We were invited to Lawn Tennis party etc at Mr Riddle’s, but the rain prevented our going. I walked to Sibford Ferris this afternoon to examine with him the writing specimens sent in for the Flower Show tomorrow. Sent off “Copy” for September number of Deddington Deanery Magazine.

1894, August 22, Wednesday

Fine. Annual Exhibition of Sibford Horticultural Society held in Mr Ainge’s field opposite the church. There were very many people from surrounding villages. Everything passed off well. I was timekeeper and starter at the washing competition which caused much fun. Mrs Way and Mrs Watson were there. The former is staying with Miss Dix for a few days. Mr Garrard of Brailes, his wife and her sister Maud were here to the show and to tea. So were Mrs Page and Mrs Kerr. I stayed in the field and dancing tent, mostly with Mr Oddie, till 12.30 am. Everything was quite quiet and orderly.

1894, August 23, Thursday 

Rain all day. Miss Sotteck left for London. Frank drove her to Banbury. Bell, Frank and I took supper with Mrs Page and Mrs Kerr at their lodgings.

1894, August 24, Friday

St Bartholomew’s Day. Divine Service at 9.15. Frank accompanied Mrs Page and Mrs Kerr in Ainge’s wagonette (West driving) to Broughton. They went over the castle and Frank took some photographs.

I visited school and spoke to Mr Langley about Sunday School treat and breaking up. We think next Friday will be most suitable for both.

I met George Aris, junior who married our old servant Jane Messenger. He was very well dressed, very well mannered and looked well. He is manager (for brewers) of a beer shop at Haggerston, for which he gets £3 a week etc.

Visited Widow Lamb who showed me a letter recently received from her son Francis who says trade of all kinds is bad in Toronto.

1894, August 25, Saturday 

Mrs Page and Mrs Kerr left Sibford. I drove Rosa to Sutton by Brailes this afternoon to take a parcel of Four Shire books to Mr Bradley. We found him and Mrs Bradley at home. Also Mrs Murphy his sister, Mrs Blake, his daughter. Also Miss Blake and his daughter Ethel. The mare went as well as ever and we had a pleasant drive without rain. Met Hattie and Maud in Brailes.

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Read about the Rev Edward Stevens here.