Diary of Rev Edward Stevens

Dull. Received a letter from Messrs Miller and Abbotts and agents saying that on allotment rent night in October last a resolution was passed by the tenants to the following effect “Proposed by Mr Henry Bishop, seconded by Mr Lively, that Messrs Miller and Abbotts be requested to communicate with the Trustees as to a reduction in rent of the allotments and that the rents be reduced as and from Michaelmas 1894 at the rate of 5/- per acre. A proposition by Mr Henry Harris that no rents should be paid in advance did not receive a seconder.”

I replied that I would lay their letter before the Trustees at their next meeting and added that the Trustees now received, after payment of costs and expenses etc only 15/- per acre per annum.

A man who gave the name of Buckley called whilst I was at dinner and asked for the use of the School-room for a public performance of some kind or other. I declined but told him he might write and I would consult the Trustees as far as possible and give him a reply. He wanted me to read a bundle of testimonials which he pulled out of his pocket and looked very fierce and indignant when I told him I had no time to spare then, being engaged. I showed him out.

Fine afternoon. Drove Bell to Shutford. Called on Mr and Mrs Trumper. We met her with her two little boys. Mr T was out shooting with Riddle. They turned back to the house, but we did not go in. I gave the little boys a drive and came on home where we arrived at 5 o’clock. Charles Barnes called this evening with ?disused? Charity Coal tickets. 13 tons 15 cwts were distributed and 1 ton 4 cwts left at the school.