Helen Banfield Jackson 1899 diary transcription
William S. Jackson Papers, Part 2, Ms 0241, Box 13, 1899 diary of HHJ's niece Helen Fiske Banfield, later Helen Banfield Jackson, transcribed by Nancy Knipe, 2006.
NOTES:
VC - Vassar College
A - Anne (sister)
N - Nathan (brother)
R - Richie (brother)
K - Kitty (sister)
M - Mamie (sister)
S.S. - Sunday School
W.sr - William (husband)
W.jr - William (son)
H - Helen (daughter)
G - Gardner (son)
(Prefatory material: The Excelsior Diary 1899 includes printed pages for monthly sunrise, sunset, moon rise, postage, interest and wage tables, countries, states, cities, value of foreign coins, tides, help in case of accidents)
Sun. Jan. 1, 1899
A very hard New Year's Day for dear W.sr, & we tried to keep each other
brave, because of all that is left to us; but the lonliness [sic] without
baby Margaret is unspeakable. None of us went to church, because of not
wanting to take Everett & Roland among people. I was almost too drowsy
to read this a.m. I read letters in the p.m., as "Papa" sat with
us. He is watching Gardner very carefully, whose cough is not yet bad.
Monday 2.
An easier day than yesterday. The burden seemed less heavy so that I was
able to accomplish my necessary duties for house and children. Very sweet
letters from Mamma, Mamie & Aunt Margaret, and I wrote short notes to
Mamma, Aunt M, and Nathan. I took a short walk in p.m. with W.jr. &
Helen, Anne P. going with us; we could not do all our errands as the stores
were closed. I feel most desolate at night without my baby.
Tues. Jan. 3, 1899
I did not have a good night so everything went hard again all day. W-jr
& H. returned to school, but it seems safer for all reasons to keep
Everett & Roland at home until we see whether we are to have more cases
of Whooping Cough. Little Gardner is not eating very well, but also not
coughing much. Only a week ago, that our darling left us! It seems ages,
& yet everyone is so kind. A note of sympathy & love from Anne at
noon.
Wednesday 4.
Roland six years old to-day - he & Everett were very good in their school
hour with me at noon - it is pretty hard on them as well as Edith &
little Gardner to have to stay in all day, but until we know the outcome
of these coughs we do not dare to run any risks. I stayed in the playroom
all the p.m while Nellie took her rest. The first part of it I heard W.jr's
& H's lessons. I wrote a card to N, & a short note to A.
Thur. Jan. 5, 1899.
The coughs seem no worse so we cannot yet know whether we are to have any
more cases of Whopping cough; Little Edith is decidedly better, and it is
a comfort to see her eating so well. A cold day. I had a.m & p.m callers
- friends who feel deeply with us in our loss of beautiful little Margaret,
whom I miss more as the days pass without her. I must rouse myself from
the apathy that has come with my bereavement; it is not fair to the other
dear children!
Friday 6
The physical seems so easily dominated by the mental condition such times
as these, but I trust the heavy burden will soon be so lighted that I can
be more like myself. Callers came again to-day and I saw them; W-sr. away
in Cripple Creek all day, so the house seemed very lonely. Everett &
Roland very patient in their long siege indoors, of course little Gardner
& Edith have to stay in also.
Sat. Jan. 7, 1899.
Still the kind letters some having loving messages of sympathy in our great
loss. I seem to accomplish almost nothing these days, & eating seems
very distasteful, -- but will trust soon that will all be different. Edith
& Gardner had their little baths in the a.m., the other four Nellie
& I did slightly at night, so there was supper in the playroom again.
Sunday 8.
Because of possible Whooping Cough cases, it did not seem best or easy for
me to go to church, so I stayed quietly at home & read to the children
a great deal. W.jr. & Helen out for short airings with "Papa."
I wrote short notes to K, Mamma & R before dinner. W. & I had good
talk in playroom
afterwards, & I wrote more upstairs, to Anne & Aunt Margaret about
Molly.
Mon. Jan. 9, 1899.
The first morning I have felt in the least like getting up since dear baby
Margaret was taken from me. I did not go to sleep after 5 a.m. so had a
good hot bath & wrote a little before breakfast. Dear little Gardner
seemed ill afterwards, & by nap time he was so restless & feverish
that W. decided to call in Dr. Lawrence for the sake of the milder treatment
for babies. He prescribes Aconito.
Tuesday 10.
Little G. pretty sick all day taking only graham bread and plain milk. I
felt very forlorn all day because of sorrow, anxiety and broken rest. Little
G's fever abated a little towards evening. We had to use injection to get
movement, & both caused considerable discomfort. Mrs. Barlow called
in p.m. when I was resting on blue room lounge. Nellie stayed with little
G. The others doing as well as we could expect.
Wed. Jan. 11, 1899
Little Gardner decidedly better, temperature almost normal but of course
we are keeping him quietly in crib in my room. Dr. L thinks there is no
doubt about his having Whooping Cough, so that on top of his present attack,
does not make us very tranquil. I wrote Miss M., tho' that she need not
come as our little boy was so much better. I took Helen, Everett, Roland
and Edith out in p.m. for an airing, to buy W.jr. some clothes.
Thursday 12.
Very much relieved to have our little G. so much better; tho' he frightened
us in the early a.m. by finding him entirely uncovered. I think our putting
hot water bag near him & giving him warm water bag near him and giving
him Warm [?] saved him from catching a serious cold. W.jr. & H. go to
school regularly while our Everett & Roland are being entirely neglected
by me during their enforced absence from school & from my room. These
days are hard all around.
Fri. Jan 13, 1899.
I had such a nervous time last night that W. reported my condition to the
Dr., & he prescribed [?]
[Vonica?] for the present. I know well enough that it will take more than
that to straighten me out! But I must take every help I find. Little G.
had a very good night and tho' coughing more, seems bright & playful
till nap time. I did not dress him to-day at all. His movements still sluggish,
& we have to give him injections. Mrs. [Touralin?] called when I could
not see her, later I saw Mrs. Gregg.
Saturday 14.
Little Gardner did not seem so well to-day, eyes were again heavy looking
and after lunch, on taking his temperature found it to be 101, so Dr. Lawrence
returned to Aconito with [Ereta?] combination this time. The other five
had their hot baths downstairs, -- Nellie staying with our little nimrod
while I helped Anna with the children. I had another line from R. saying
he should start East by the Southern sent to-day. So we shall not see him.
Sun. Jan. 15, 1899
A windy day - so all stayed in; of course I could not leave my sick little
boy and I did not feel like insisting upon W.'s & H's going to church
alone. So all the big four had to shift for themselves all the a.m. I was
greatly relieved that little G. seemed so bright all day, after his return
of fever yesterday; but he is so thin & white! While Papa played with
him in p.m. I wrote short notes to Aunt M, Mama, & Annie.
Monday 16.
Dear W's 65th birthday & not such a happy one as we had hoped it would
be, with a little 10 mos. old baby M. in our arms,-- but how much happier
she may be in the new home! Everett in bed today as well as Gardner! Dr.
L. thinks the former's attack is simply indigestion, which I hope is so.
Little G.'s kidneys again inactive, so we are no at all sure of the baby
boy yet; I sewed some.
Tues. Jan. 17, 1899
W's and my night quite broken because of one anxiety for little G.; I went
to Dr. L's office before breakfast, and the Dr. came over early, and at
once bro't relief to little G. who seemed bright & lively all day. Everett
much better so our two invalids were in the same room. Poor Nellie feeing
"grippy," so she took her p.m. & went to get medicine from
Dr. Gildea. W.jr. had his lessons in my room. Helen went to play with Anne
P. Mabel L. called.
Wednesday 18.
Too forlorn to accomplish anything and it seems all wrong that I cannot
"throw off" my heavy heart with so much around me that is cheering
and beautiful, but such is the effect of those deal little baby arms that
I feel no more! Little Gardner much better, was dressed all day, as was
Everett also, but both look very white. I hope we can soon have them out
& so see the roses come again.
Thurs. Jan. 19, 1899
Nellie better, tho' she had a bad coughing turn early. Everett coughing
more than he has at all and it is hard to see him, but he is up & about
& dressed and is eating fairly well. I had a great many sweet letters--
glad of a good one from Mamma. W. jr & H. at school, the latter returned
with dress all covered with milk, so I took that in hand with salts of lemon
& made the red plaid look better than I feared possible.
Friday 20.
H. had a lovely time with Miriam & Ruth at "Tea" last evening,
but she was quite later in getting home, the Fraulein coming down in cars
with her. I had a good letter from N. about business. I went thru' papers
but did not write any. Everett & Roland on piazza at noon for a good
sunning, & little G. out in p.m. for a short time. I could not get settled
at anything that I ought to in p.m., but read "Out of the deep"
by Kingsley.
Sat. Jan. 21, 1899
It just seems an impossibility to get up so every one was very kind and
I loafed in bed til after lunch. Then it seemed easy & pleasant to go
about my accustomed ways. Dear W. is most tender & patient, as are the
little children during this siege of inertia that I am having thru' the
effect of sorrow. I am trying not to be discouraged at its long continuance.
I am sure with little G. so bright & merry again, & the others doing
well, we have much to be thankful for, even tho' so sad without our baby
Margaret.
Sunday 22.
A very disagreeable wind storm so I did not insist upon the oldest children
going to church as I could not. I read to them all a little while after
breakfast, but could not make it the profitable day for them & myself
that it ought to have been-very very forlorn again in p.m. & yet every
body so patient with me. Little G. & little E. both very bright, but
hard on all to be kept in so much. I wrote some letters last evening.
Mon. Jan. 23, 1899
It is dreadful to have this month slipping away without accomplishing one
thing, but I will not complain if my old interest and strength can return-it
sometimes seems as if they could not without the dear little life that was
so suddenly taken from us. I mended for wash a little in a.m., but loafed
all the p.m. Mrs. Slocum, Miss Loomis, and Miss Dorsey called.
Tuesday 24.
I sent acknowledgments to Xmas gifts. W. left us late last night for Cripple
Creek, & even that short journey makes me feel lonely these days. Then
a snow storm came which added to that sense, which shows how changed I am;
before baby died, I loved every flake! The dear big boy W. & girlie
H. very good to me & I hear their lessons, & try to do something
for Everett & Roland while staying at home.
Wed. Jan. 25, 1899
Children all pretty well. One of the a.m.'s it just seem [sic] impossible
to start myself, so just stayed in bed all day, not getting up till dinner
time when I did keep W. company-it is not pleasant to write up such a day
of idleness. Another sudden going away in our neighborhood, Miss [Crowell?]
passed away yesterday p.m., so now poor Miss Sue is left entirely alone
& how hard for her!
Thursday 26.
Tho' stormy I went out on a few errands when W. went down to the Bank. I
did a little at schooling with Everett & Roland on my return, and in
p.m. kept pretty busy for these days; but how thankful I shall be when the
days come, if possible, full of thorough-going labor-now everything seems
like pretence & that is wrong with the darling memory we shall always
have of her who has gone.
Fri. Jan. 27, 1899
Another and I trust the last worse than useless day - I tried in vain to
bestir myself about something in the a.m. Mrs. Donaldson & Mrs. Taylor
called about noon, the latter seemed very sad as we spoke of the sorrows,
& I suppose dear Miss Edith, her daughter is very very ill. I just could
not see the callers in the p.m. W.jr. went to a party of just boys at George
Shill[d's in?] at Miss Henry's. Miss Crowell's funeral to which we did not
go. Helen not quite well.
Saturday 28.
Snow, snow, snow again, and how terribly lonely it does make me this winter,
& how happy it used to, when I had all my darlings. I was able to work
a little more today to-day and to be a little more to the children. Very
glad of more encouraging news about sister. Alice & Marie C. sent a
paper with a reference to "Capt. Banfield of the "St. James"
in it which I am sure will gratify R. Helen coughing more again.
Sun. Jan. 29, 1899
I hoped to get to my own church but did not succeed. W.jr. and I did however,
go over to hear Dr. Maislin's sermon on "Sunday observance" which
was very good. On my return, I found little Helen's fever so high that I
put her right to bed and began giving her Aconito. She seems to have a "grippy"
cold. I read to her while in my bed. The others all pretty well.
Monday 30.
A snowy lonely day, the sense of desolation is very great to me in storms.
I kept H. in bed, altho' much better; her headache gone & fever nearly
so. We let the little boys, E. & R., stay in her room at noon. W. had
his lessons up there in p.m. for H's entertainment. I am too lazy for any
usefulness yet, I would like to change myself.
Tue. Jan. 31, 1899
Still terribly hard to "take hold" again. I am amazed at myself
& at the long continued indifference. It is simple [sic] terrible, and
is not what the influence of baby M's short sweet life should be! But Oh!
the loneliness without it, but that is no reason why I should not try [sic]
help make other lives bright, and alas! alas! I must look out. Miss Stewart
called in p.m. & bro't W. some stamps.
Wed. Feb. 1.
The coldest day of the winter, & W. in Cripple Creek; we missed his
"firing" at the furnace tho' Annie & W.jr. helped. Helen at
home from school because of intense cold and her lingering cold. Roland
rather ["dumbstruck?"] all day - it is very hard on the children
to be kept in so long. I stayed with them in p.m. I tried to work at my
desk in a.m. but did not do much that counted.
Thurs. Feb. 2, 1899
Pretty hard on Helen to have to stay at home from school this week, but
the weather is so severe it has not seemed safe to let her go out. Very
glad W.jr. can keep so happy at school as I seem so good for nothing at
home for the children of all ages. I cannot understand my desperate condition,
which makes me feel as if I ought never to have come here to live!
Friday 3.
Oh! Oh, Oh! days seem to grow worse instead of better. I had another day
in bed which rightly made W. "wrought up"--and yet if I get up
I am as useless as when lying in bed resting. What can break this horrible
"something" that is again on me; dear baby Margaret's memory is
not being honored by my acting this way but why didn't I have a Dr. see
her sooner?
Sat. Feb. 4, 1899 and Sunday 5. [run together]
I just crawled around all day and made a pretence of attending to duties,
but in reality did not & so it goes from week to week until there will
be so much to be done that no body will want to have me around. You would
think that the caresses of the other children & W's kindness in many
ways would "bring me to." The desolation seems aggravated by the
bleak cold weather which again kept us all at home from church, tho' W.sr.
made his business trip to the mts, & which made us feel badly. I read
to the children considerably all day, but without the feeling in it on my
part that I should like to have! W. not home for the dinner we had waiting
for him. Pipe burst in kitchen.
Mon. Feb. 6, 1899
We let little H. go to school again altho' the thermometer was above zero
after breakfast. W. had to get up early-these days of excitement in mining
matters seem to keep on the [wish?] the way I ought to be kept but cannot
be. I have not even taught Everett and Roland at the noon hour as I should
& my whole brain, mind & heart are in a state of chaos and unrest.
Mrs. [Suls?] came for Frank & Joe.
Tuesday 7.
I keep hoping each a.m. to "get hold" again, and each a.m. I am
doomed & disappointed, & it just seems to be from a lack of will
power more than from anything else. Even the children begin to hate to see
me lie down, knowing how hard it will be for me to rouse myself again. What
is the use of putting all my miserable feelings in black & white!! Oh,
dear, Oh dear, Oh dear!
Wed. Feb.8, 1899
I again stayed in bed all day - the physical rest could do me no harm, tho'
I do so long to be "at things," and yet fail to attempt them.
Little Gardner looking unusually well. The very cold weather has made little
Edith cough & "whoop" pretty badly again. Mrs. Slocum made
one of her cheery calls.
Thursday 9.
W. & H. went to their Agassiz Ass. after school which is a very good
thing for them. The little boys out for a short run each day. I put away
clean clothes to-day and Mrs. Barney came to wash my hair in p.m.; I mended
a little while it was being dried. Letter from R.
Fri. Feb. 10, 1899 and Saturday 11. [run together]
Another lazy day. Mrs. Slocum would see me in bed to talk over the going
to Washington with her; the very tho't of leaving my children, useless as
I have been of late, made me feel terribly, but W.sr. is getting anxious
and what did he do but bring Dr. Tucker over to see and talk with me in
evening; he said a change would be good, but that if I could overcome my
depression at home, all right. He left a
Tonic which I wish might relieve the strain. Dr. Beach called as I was starting
the few hot baths in play room. Little Edith seemed to have such a bad cold
that we did neither her nor Gardner. Dr. B. very tender & sympathetic.
Sun. Feb. 12, 1899
I made an effort to go to church to hear Dr. Beach, taking with me W. &
H.-tho' I did not wholly like leaving little Edith who seemed forlorn with
her cold and stiff neck. I tried to make her stay in my bed, but she would
not; she did stay upstairs all p.m.; I held her most of the time. W. telephoned
to Dr. L about her.
Monday 13.
Little Edith quite ready to stay in bed to-day, and while quite "spunky"
the first part of the day, in p.m. her fever grew so high, I became quite
restless before Dr. L. came. I sent W.jr. down to "Papa" to have
him come soon. Dr. L. said there was decided irritation in her left lung
and our hearts sank.
Tues. Feb. 14, 1899
A lovely little touching poem from Aunt Edith-she little tho't it would
find her namesake so ill in bed. The well children had a happy time over
their Valentines; Everett & Roland are very happy to be in school again,
and I trust it is not going to be injurious to them. Dear little Edith's
fever [rose?] to 105 and she seemed as if she was burning up. Dr. L. bro't
Miss [Hale?] to help us in the care of her. Nellie had telegram & left
us.
Wednesday 15.
Very thankful that our sick little Edith had a let down of fever during
night and early morning to-day but it soon began to rise again, and it reached
105 again this p.m. & my spirits were not lightened when Dr. l. said
both her lungs were affected. Miss Hale makes her very happy & I am
trying to get rested as much as one can when so anxious. Mattie came.
Thurs. Feb. 16, 1899
Greatly relieved at dear little Edith's improvement to-day - temperature
kept low all day, & her asking for her dollies and having more appetite
were all very gratifying - sad word about little Josephine Parsons, but
I hope yet that she may be spared other family. Mrs. [Love?], Mrs. Barlow,
Mrs. Hatch & Mrs. Gregg called, so I did not get much done in p.m. I
wrote after dinner.
Friday 17.
Little Josephine passed away last evening before her father could reach
home; how my heart aches for them all, as only a mother's can ache who has
been thru' a similar sorrow! I feel very thankful little Edith is so happy
with Miss Hale, as I seem so good for nothing in the main. The other children
seem very well. School agrees with E. & R.
Sat. Feb. 18, 1899
A bright a.m. for little Edith - tho' she looks pretty white after playing
with her own & Helen's dollies. W.sr. in Cripple Creek; W. jr. &
H. went out to lunch at Jack Hart's and then W. went to Wm. Bartlett's.
Little E. had a little fever in p.m., about ½ degree. I had letter
from M, enclosing long interesting one from Edith in Savannah which I must
forward to Nathan.
Sunday 19
A beautiful day-warm & balmy, and if our little Edith were only well,
I am sure we should have had a family drive; I took the four older ones
to church for the first time since little Margaret's death. Mr. Gregg's
sermon good & helpful on "Bearing One's Cross." Miss Hale
took a rest in p.m. so I stayed with little Edith, who looks very white,
but seems bright.
Mon. Feb. 20, 1899
Edith still very willing to be waited on in bed, and we feel very glad Miss
Hale is so congenial to our little invalid; but with Maggie & Nellie
& dear baby Margaret gone, the whole house seems changed, and I do not
feel the part of it I used to, and ought to be now, tho' I am think [sic]
I am gaining some ground tho' very slowly, and it is hard for the rest.
Tuesday 21. [combined with Wed., Feb. 22, 1899]
A most terrible washing day. Sarah just had to give up at noon & go
home to wait for pleasant weather; it has not been like a Colo February.
Little Josephine Parsons buried yesterday, but I did not feel like going
to the services because of all the strain at home. Roland very restless
at night, so I took him in bed with me and I was not surprised in any way
to discover that his throat was pretty bad. Dr. L. prescribed for him and
said there was a membrane right across the throat, so that we must keep
the other children out of the room, & that we must be careful about
going in between E's room, & so I missed seeing little E.; she has hard
times with her fevers. That seems the strain this week.
Thursday 23.
Roland better than we feared but of course had to be kept in bed still -
he disliked the gargling so much that he kept quiet, apparently asleep more
than yesterday,. W.jr. told Mrs. Barney that I would have to [make?] my
engagement with her. Miss Hale took a little run out in p.m. So raw I did
not let Everett go to school.
Fri. Feb. 24, 1899
Glad of a word from Maggie telling us that Nellie had reached home in time
to have "conversation with her father" as M. expressed it. I meant
to take a walk downtown, but Mabel L. called just as I was about to get
ready so we visited together on the piazza. Roland much better and was up
& dressed, but was glad to go to bed before suppertime. W. again went
to Denver & returned late at night. Little Edith comfortable all day.
Saturday 25.
A coldish a.m. Little Helen read her lessons to me while I mended a little.
Roland so spunky he would get up; I hope little Edith will want to get up
soon - her return of strength seems very slow, & both Miss Hale &
Dr. Lawrence call her a very frail little girl. We gave only four hot baths,
less & less & Oh! how changed the playroom seems.
Sun. Feb. 26, 1899
The four, no three, older children for Roland's throat was not well enough
for him to go out, and I slipped in to hear Chancellor McDowell's sermon
on "Patience in Faith." Miss Hale took an outing in p.m. so I
stayed with little Edith who seemed very happy & cheery & her strength
is at last returning slowly. Greatly shocked in late p.m. to hear of Mrs.
C. White's death in the St. Francis after an operation. W. went to see Mr.
White after dinner.
Monday 27.
Two months to-day only since our darling Margaret went from us. I did not
rest very well so stayed in bed all the a.m. I hope it is the last time
for many a day that I'll feel like doing this. I stayed with little Edith
in p.m. while Miss Hale was out so did not see any callers except Mrs. Hatch
who came upstairs to say Goodbye before going to Texas for two months.
Tues. Feb. 28, 1899
Quite wintry again. I was getting photographs ready for R. when a postal
card came from him saying he had taken charge of the "St. James"
temporarily" in Baltimore. I wrote also to Dr. Hast. In p.m. W. &
I went together to Mrs. White's funeral services at the Baptist Church which
were largely attended; afterwards, I called on Miss Crowell, Mrs. Parsons
and Mrs. Washburn; and I came home very tired as they were the first calls
since baby died.
Wed. March 1.
A reaction came, as I feared would come, after the effort of yesterday,
in that I had another wretchedly idle a.m., not getting up til lunchtime.
In p.m. I stayed with little Edith while Miss Hale took her outing, hearing
at the same time the children's lessons for tomorrow. W. left us on evening
train for Denver. Not the kind of a wedding anniversary we have had each
year before this! Eleven years married today.
Thur. March 2, 1899
Thankful to feel quite spunky so that I could really work for the children-first
putting away their clean clothes & then sewing for them. I fixed ribbons
in one of H's ginghams. As W's return was doubtful we had noon dinner with
children and then supper. Mrs. Adams & Mrs. Beach called before Mrs.
Barney came. We had our supper about 7 o'clock, after lessons were all over.
Friday 3.
The trees heavily ladened with snow and everything looked beautiful to those
free from a heavy heart. A very long good letter came from Aunt Abbie at
noon, making me ashamed of my great lonliness [sic] among so many little
children, when she is without any young life about her. I fully meant to
go to the [Max Bendi?] concert but slept past the time! As was the case
with W.
Sat. March 4, 1899
Hard to get up and start the day - it made us all very happy to see little
Edith dressed again after her serious illness, and she enjoyed walking around
very much. W.jr. & Everett had their slough in a.m., and then W. went
to Miss Henry's for lunch with Ginger Shields. A blustery day-five hot baths
in late p.m. which seems harder to get thro' than formerly.
Sunday 5.
Mr. Gregg's Communion talk very appropriate to my lonliness [sic] of heart,
"Making the Valley of Baca, a Well." The four older children went
to church with me. W.jr. late. I read from Outlook to children in p.m. which
little Edith was taking her rest - she came down in playroom later for her
supper to see Dr. & Mrs. Slocum, who called.
Mon. March 6, 1899
A forlornish [sic] day for me, but the dear children so bright & well
I ought to be more cheery myself again. Even I do constantly miss the baby
Margaret. I mended a little in the a.m. and fixed black rosettes for hat
but my courage gave up as to going to the musical in the p.m. at which Mr.
Goldmark gave his new sonata with Miss DuPré as accompanist with
her viola.
Tuesday 7.
Dr. Lawrence came about 11 a.m. and left some pellets for little Edith and
some more sulphur [sic] ones for Roland-he seems better, but still has a
tendency to boils. He & Everett are both regular in school again. Miss
Hale left us this afternoon. It was very good to have little Edith down
to lunch again. I was out on errands at noon and sat on piazza a good while
in p.m. W.sr. went to Denver on even'g train.
Wed. March 8, 1899
As W. was not here, we had noon dinner and I stayed with the children all
the p.m.-it being little Edith's first day out of doors since her serious
illness, she was out both a.m. and p.m. and seemed delighted to be out again.
Mrs. Hamp called a few minutes while we were on the piazza. All these March
days so suggestive of darling Margaret.
Thursday 9.
I worked over our clean clothes as normal this a.m., but not yet with full
rigor! W. up in good season most every morning now-to-day he left late because
of not returning from Denver till after midnight. The middle-sized boys
went to dancing lessons and W.jr. and Helen went out into the ca?on on an
expedition with their teachers.
Fri. March 10, 1899
A blowy [sic] windy day that made "Papa" & me feel uncomfortable.
I tried to work hard but could not. I did answer Mrs. Sturgis letter of
inquiry, and then I arranged bedding for tomorrow a.m. Because of so much
going on tomorrow for the older children, I had lessons in p.m. till Mrs.
Gile called. She asked for a contribution toward making Mrs. Ormes a life
member of W.E.S.
Saturday 11.
W.jr. & Helen and Everett took their hot baths early, that is before
breakfast, so that they would not have to be troubled after Gerald's party.
W.jr went to two parties. Miss Wolcott called with a friend in the forenoon,
& I always enjoy seeing her. There was so much preparation for the children's
going out that I was too late to get ready myself for the meeting of Educational
Society at Coburn Library.
Sun. March 12, 1899
I was very late in getting started for church with the four older ones so
we did not go as far as our own, but stopped in to hear Mr. Tyler on "Come
Unto Me." I read to W.sr. til he went to sleep on lounge, then read
to the children till they took their walk late in p.m. with "Papa."
Edith & Gardner in all day. I did not write any home letters, tho' I
had time to begin on them.
Monday 13.
W. up in good season. A little too raw for the little children to go out,
but the big ones all went to school. In p.m. I wrote to R. whose word about
the destruction of the "O'Brien" came in noon mail. I wrote also
to Aunt Margaret, Helen Tufts (whose note about dear Aunt Mary's release
came; last Wednesday she died) and Caroline & Nettie Holden, acknowledging
the latter's Christmas bag at last.
Tues. March 14, 1899
Another fearful blow-the school children went out, but of course the little
ones were kept in. I had notes from Mrs. Sturgis, Mrs. C.B. [Seldomridge?],
and Caroline H. W.sr. stayed in bed till noon, so I read to him late. I
took a short walk the latter part of p.m. and very glad of good letter from
Anne with long one from Edith B. enclosed.
Wednesday 15.
Very glad to hear from R., of his having been given the appointment of the
"May Flint's" Captaincy. It will be a great source of comfort
and pleasure to him, I hope, as well as profit. I stayed with children all
the p.m. & heard lessons. I have had repairing done on playroom mats
etc., so I hope I am gaining each week in accomplishing more for my dear
household.
Thur. March 16, 1899
Our darling Margaret would be a year old to-day and how we long for her!
The children all remembered the day at breakfast, and wished to see the
baby sister's face. I decided to go with W-sr. to a small "Tea"
at Mrs. Slocum's tho' it was a great effort, & especially this sad anniversary.
Edith & Gardner were out a short time. Mrs. Barney came before I went
out.
Friday 17.
A reaction from yesterday's effort, and such I must expect, I suppose, till
I am possessed of greater strength & reconciliation than has yet come
since the baby M. left us. A raw day, the children all bright and well,
and in latter part of p.m. I did go downtown and over to Hollander's room
for an 11 & 9 yr. old pairs of trousers. I met Mrs. Gregg & gave
way to grief before I went out.
Sat. March 18, 1899
The boys off at Lloyd and came home happy. Helen spent the day with Esther
so she had a happy time. I mended pretty vigorously till lunch time when
W. told us that Mr. & Mrs. Merriam were going East Monday night and
that he would like to have them dine with us to-night. So he took invitation
which they accepted & W-jr. did our errands.
Sunday 19.
A lovely a.m. and I was sorry to feel so little in spirit with the brightness
around me. We did order the horses on our way home from church and it was
very good to have another family drive, even if a sad one without our darling
Margaret. We took posies to her little grave which the children saw for
the first time. Oh! The lonliness [sic]of coming home without her!
Mon. March 20, 1899
How happy I shall be when, if ever, it is easy, and a pleasure again to
rise early. I am sure I am glad for all the "bright happy morns"
I have had! But for the sake of my children, I long for more. Mabel L. called
just as I had finished reading morning paper to W. Children ate in school.
I read in p.m. instead of sewing as I should! I did get off "skimpy"
notes home.
Tuesday 21.
As W. was in Cripple Creek, and I felt pretty spunky, I was glad to have
Helen invite Mrs. Washburn's three little daughters to luncheon-nine bright
little faces around my table. Mrs. W. called in p.m. and I told her I thought
of the "other three" that are beyond. I went up to Mrs. Parsons
on an errand & bought "Ivanhoe" for W-jr. to-morrow.
Wed. March 22, 1899
Our big boy 10 yrs. Old to-day. He invited Miss. Henry & George to luncheon
as a quiet kind of celebration. George gave out at the last moment, so Miss
H. came alone and made the children very happy; I was not feeling as brave
as yesterday, & that was a source of disappointment to me, for all birthdays
must not be as lonely as dear baby M's is.
Thursday 23.
I went to work, from sheer necessity, over the clean clothes and it seemed
to take me twice as long as it need to, to put them away and, yet, I must
get back my love of work, when so much demands my attention. Mrs. Barney
came soon after lunch. The middle sized boys went to their dancing lesson;
and H. had me to sleep after Mrs. B. had gone. I missed Mrs. Barlow's call.
Fri. March 24, 1899
I mended some and read some in a.m. W. in Cripple Creek and did not return
till late dinner. I hoped to feel spunky enough to go to our church meetings,
but I did not, so heard lessons and read in lounge. Mrs. Moss made me a
very pleasant call. Eleanor W. came to play with Roland. Warm & balmy.
Saturday 25.
A good letter from Aunt Mamie from Pinckney St. telling of [Eva's?] marriage
to Charles! A change in weather came--a regular blizzard before the day
was over-tho' both W-jr. & Everett succeeded in getting to the Lloyd.
We expected Nellie a little in p.m., but Mattie stayed of course until she
should be here. Hot baths & Magic Lantern afterwards!
Sun. March 26 1899
Just too stormy to go to church any where; and I longed for the old time
"sense of coziness" at home on such a day; it has never been mine
since dear baby Margaret left us. Nellie came this a.m. & it was beautiful
to see little Gardner's happiness at her return, as well as Edith's. Nellie
looked wonderfully well considering her sad visit home. W. up late &
took W-jr. out only.
Monday 27.
Still cold & snow but not too stormy for the children to go to school.
Just as I had finished [looking?] up the clothes for the wash, Mabel L.
called to say she was going to Denver for a few days' rest. I did at last
go to a concert again, taking little H. with me; it was an interesting "Persian
Garden" one. Mrs. Robinson came down from Denver.
Tues. March 28, 1899
Only three months to-day since our darling Margaret was put from our sight,
and it seems ages to my lonely bereft mother-heart. I wish I might feel
the baby spirit nearer me, to comfort & help me to be to the others
what I used to be and ought to be still! "The old light heart"
seems gone out of me & that is wrong. I had lessons with children before
dinner & afterwards heard Godowsky.
Wednesday 29.
The children all seemed cheery & well and dear little Gardner and Edith
are most happy to have their dear Nellie with them again. In p.m. I took
most of them on car ride. Anna going with us as to bring the little children
back while I went with the older ones to see Mrs. [Sauls?] who soon leaves
town for good. Mrs. Slocum joined with us.
Thurs. March 30, 1899
I had the clothes to put away as usual and it did not seem quite so hard
as sometimes of late. W. slept late. I was reading with children when Mrs.
Barney came; the four big ones are having their Easter vacation and E. &
R. did not quite want to go to their dancing lessons but were good boys
about it. Roland has quite a bad cold.
Friday 31.
A raw snowy day--& it just seemed impossible to get out of my bed--&
there was no reason to be so idle! I hope it is the last a.m. of the kind!
Frank & Joe were here before either I or W. was up! It was too damp
to play out, so I stayed with them in playroom while Nellie went to Good
Friday services. I was sorry not to feel like going to our evening services.
Sat. April 1, 1899
W. went to Denver on 9:35 a.m. train. The boys had no Lloyd. Helen invited
Anne & little Dilwyn over to luncheon so I had a lovely table of children
at noon. The p.m. was too damp for the little ones to be out, but the older
ones were. R's cold quite severe, but better to-day. W. home in time to
go over with me to Miss Stuart's to dinner & then all went to hear Ian
Macharen[?], who was delightful.
Sunday 2.
A beautiful Easter Sunday, but a sad & lonely one for me, except in
the belief that dear baby Margaret is happier in her New Home than with
us. The four older children heard the Easter sermon, with me. It was too
windy for another visit to little Margaret's resting place. I read Outlook
while "Papa" had the children out on their walk.
Mon. April 3, 1899
It was a pleasant day, so I made the effort and took my four big children
to Denver for the day, and they were all so good & interested in the
trip that I felt repaid. We called first on "Aunt Caroline" at
Miss Wolcott's new instruction School, then on Mrs. Moss, then on Mrs. Hallett
& Mrs. Hobson[?], it being the first time I had seen the latter since
her widowhood; she takes a world of comfort in what I have lost-the baby!
Tuesday 4.
It was easier for the children to get up & start again than for poor
"mither." The days ought to be so full but they seem so empty
compared to what they were before baby M-left us. I got out toward evening
& made a short call on Miss Dorsey after having voted the straight Republican
ticket for mayor etc.
Wed. April 5, 1899
I sorted clothes and so forth a little before breakfast, and while I feel
better in some ways, the old "spunk" does not return. W. bro't
the news that W.B. is coming to the far West again; he decided to accept
the position offered him in Cañon City-with-out waiting to hear from
W. So snowy I stayed in all p.m. & lessons again in my room after the
children's good rest.
Thursday 6.
I went to find my card case to-day & could not, but W. had it. I dropped
it at station and it was returned to W's office. The little girls &
I went after lunch to thank Miss Howbert for her pretty Easter remembrances.
Mrs. Barney came later. Mrs. Lunt called in a.m. I stopped reading to W.
as soon as he was asleep & fell asleep myself.
Fri. April 7, 1899
Not good for much in a.m. but reading. Miss Hale made quite a call in the
piazza & at noon I took a "start" and left things as I should
before going to church services at 3 p.m. at which Mrs. Slocum presided;
after thy were over I called on Mrs. Washburn, Mrs. Taylor & Mrs. Stevens
& her daughters.--& quite tired on return.
Saturday 8.
Between Lloyd lessons, & H. & R. going out for lunch, & the
others going to hear Miss Howbert use the "phonograph," I seemed
to do little except "help" the children dress in a.m.; and in
p.m. I read instead of mending before hot baths-the former seems to be my
resource when missing the baby inexpressibly! But I mended after dinner
to make up.
Sun. April 9, 1899
The day most beautiful, the children all out soon after breakfast. I read
the Outlook stories to them on the stone carriage step, then had Bible lessons
with them later when Anna was with the little ones. Edith's cough better,
but the others coming down with the same cold. W. jr., H, E, & R. went
to church with me; Mabel L. came home to lunch with us & then drove
off into the lovely sunshine & woods with us.
Monday 10.
Hard work to get started, but did at last and was glad to find that Miss
Stewart could make the chicken salad & cake for W's whist party to-night.
I did errands for the dinner also - W. jr. ordered the flowers for me after
lunch. I was horribly listless all the p.m., but Judge Hallett, Mr. Clayton
seemed to enjoy their dinner here & the game in the evening.
Tues. April 11, 1899
Quite shocked to see in paper the notice of Mr. F.H. Thompson's death yesterday.
I wonder if Mrs. Clark & Mrs. Backus had sailed for Europe. I did a
little puttering over drawers etc. in a.m. and got sewing ready for Nellie,
who seems so brave & quiet in her sorrow that she is a constant lesson
to me. W. sr. a very hard cold with the children, hence I do not dare to
have their hair cut.
Wednesday 12.
I did not get at my work upstairs til towards noon, as Mr. Murphy was at
work in my sewing room. W. too forlorn to go down town at all, even after
lunch, so I had children's lessons in playroom near him. He evidently has
a touch of "Grippe" and ought to be very careful. The other colds
better.
Thur. April 13, 1899
Put away clean clothes as usual in the a.m.; looking for mending also. It
has been the week of Mr. Murphy's mending indoors. I have also had a man
make over two of our mattresses. Roland's and little Gardner's. Mrs. Barney
came in p.m. Mr. Alter & his sons began their painting of our house
to-day.
Friday 14.
It was as much as I could do to get down to breakfast - the children had
finished before I put in an appearance - the rest of the day went hard.
I did write a little - telling Miss Gardner of baby M's going. I was very
glad to hear from her again, & to know that she is more comfortable
than in the winter.
Sat. April 15, 1899
Helen very happy to go off to the Woods? in the a.m. With Miss Baughman,
she returned in time to go to Anne's for lunch, she stayed there also for
bed. Mrs. Hart called to take her to the Woods for the p.m.! I had a good
day for me, because of enjoyment in work. I cannot see why it goes so easily
& comes so hard, since my great sorrow of heart!
Sunday 16.
Little Margaret would be 13 mos. old to-day, if she had stayed with us.
I had a meager S.S. after breakfast and then did not go to church as I hoped
to with the four oldest children. My spirits dull & deadened all day.
W. took all the tots off in p.m. in the electric cars, & they came home
happy with flowers and pebbles about 5:30 o'clk. A Summer-like day! I read
to children some & to myself also.
Mon. April 17, 1899
Very good to be in working mood and condition. I wish I could feel certain
of it all these Spring days when so much needs my constant attention; I
to-day made ready for Will's coming to-morrow, & sorted out summer &
winter clothes belonging to the children. I was thoroughly tired at night,
but heard the children's lessons as usual.
Tuesday 18.
The peculiar apathy that has seized & beset me so much since losing
my baby, came again. Will's coming about 10 o'clk roused me some and the
children were much interested in his return. He wanted me to call on Mrs.
Donaldson with him in p.m. which I did with some effort. We stopped to inquire
for little Ruth Gile who is ill with pneumonia.
Wed. April 19, 1899
Poor Will did too much his first day in Colorado for six years and woke
up with a headache, so he had to stay indoors & quiet all the a.m. He
walked down town in p.m. I stayed with children, hearing their lessons etc.,
while Anna was taking her rest. Mrs. A.E. Hart called and also Mrs. Griffith
and Miss Jennings. So windy I did not get out as I had planned.
Thursday 20.
Dear little Helen 9 yrs. Old to-day, and I was sorry not to have her present
ready, -- but in late p.m. after Mrs. Barney had done my hair, I took all
the four big ones down for a little ice cream treat at the St. Stephens
Fair and then bought my dear good [little?] big girl her "Little Women."
She is always so happy to have a book or a dolly!
Fri. April 21, 1899
Will left us yesterday p.m., and will hardly return for a Sunday with us
until after Mrs. Donaldson returns. I let Everett & Roland have their
hair cut in the p.m. and they were so much improved. I went to see Mrs.
Slocum - in her recent & great bereavement; Mrs. Winfield Slocum died
yesterday; but I did not see Mrs. S. as she was visiting so called on Mabel
and Miss Dorsey.
Saturday 22.
I am so thankful to have the getting up easier than it has been since baby
Margaret left us; that is a gain, so I must be patient for the other traits
to return. W. jr. & H. went to see the baseball game with Miss "Bloomis"
who took dinner with us last evening & then went to see "Mikado."
Dear Dr. Hart called just as I was in the midst of breakfast!
Sun. April 23, 1899
The children all very good at breakfast and afterwards and I went to church
with my four big children and Mr. Gregg preached a very good sermon on the
spiritual life. We went to our little darling's and Aunty's grave in the
p.m. and gathered wild flowers and all the dear six so happy but Nellie
& I are constantly missing the little seventh; if she only knows how
we miss her & love her! The getting home without my baby, Oh! dear.
Monday 24.
It was hard to get started, but did not something all the a.m. & p.m.,
tho' not feeling very spunky. It was pleasant for Everett & Roland to
have Clement & Harold Giles to lunch & to play with them all the
p.m. W.jr went off to a baseball game with some of his friends. Prof. G.
called for his little boys & said his dear little Ruth was not any better.
Tues. April 25, 1899
The atmosphere of my mind quite clear - as it often is not these days, so
I sat down at my desk and wrote a few letters till W.sr. called me to read
the paper to him. He did not rest long after lunch. The children were divided
in p.m., the big ones going to join their little friends at Mrs. Whitbeck's
party and Edith & Gardner staying at home with Anna. Mrs. Kennedy called
and we walked Anna to Miss Stewart's together. I gave Miss S. my New England
dinner ticket, as W. & I did not feel like going to it. Annie forlorn
all day.
Wednesday 26.
I fussed over clean clothes some but felt very dull and discouraged - poor
little Edith quite ill at her stomach in the evening and again this a.m.,
& yet wanted to be out between times. We cannot quite understand what
upset her. It was so windy that between that fact & my wanting to watch
Edith, I did not go to call on Mrs. Moss at Mrs. Slocum's as I had planned.
Mr. Alter & his son finished outside of house to-day.
Thurs. April 27, 1899
The floors were begun to be freshened up to-day - poor little Edith better
but not quite herself yet --; she kept out of doors with little Gardner.
I began on books on low shelves in Library, & also went thro' all the
drawers to my desk which sorely needed my attention, so I worked hard all
day and enjoyed it. Everett & Roland went to their dancing lesson. Mr.
Shepard came for the druggets.
Friday 28.
I had another discouraging day - tried to get as busy as I succeed [sic]
in being yesterday but failed! Glad of letters from dear Mamma at last.
She is evidently very tired and lonely since R's sailing. His return to
port for new sails quite startled them; he encountered such a heavy gale
on leaving N.Y. that he had to put back for stronger sails. W. & I too
stupid to go to debate between the Nebraska University and the Colorado
College boys.
Sat. April 29, 1899
Edith much better but poor little Gardner taken to-day - it does seem as
if all the discomfort must be caused by the paint. I worked away on Saturday
mending when not with my sick little boy - he grew so much whiter at night
that I told W. sr. that I thought we'd better have medical advice, and it
did seem good to have Dr. Hart again - he prescribed white powders for the
little boy.
Sunday 30.
The night was not so hard a one for Gardner as you would have thought after
his hard day yesterday - all day to-day he was feverish & dull; his
old "fire" does not appear in the languidness of fever; but the
only medicine he has had since the powders has been one teaspoonful of Castor
Oil which he took like a little man. It made him a little "Saggy"
again, and up to midnight he was restless. I stayed at home from church
with him - it was so windy I did not force the children to go.
Mon. May 1, 1899
The children had a good time distributing their May baskets and we were
very glad that little Gardner had Enjoyment in his. His fever has gone and
he was glad to sit up in his bed and play. It grew very windy in the p.m.
& yet I let the well children play out. Poor W. jr. taken to-day so
he had to stay at home from school. Dr. H. very kind to me & said very
plainly that I must have a change, so wrote about going to Newport, after
talking with W. in evening.
Tuesday 2.
W. jr. quite disappointed that he was too "squeamish" to return
to school as he had planned. Little Gardner much better - after bathing
him he sat in my rocking chair till his nap time but he & W. are taking
their Milk of Magnesia in Manitou water. The playroom still entirely upset
in its being thoroughly overhauled, repainted or varnished etc. Very thankful
to feel so "spry" all day. I believe just the thought of a change
does me good.
Wed. May 3, 1899
I told Dr. H. when he came to find little Gardner so much better, that W.
& I had talked over the plan of going east etc., and that I thought
we'd have a better time if all went; of course it is a tremendous undertaking
but I trust it will do the children as much good as we want it to do me.
Nellie had the children to herself while Anna took a rest - I had the big
ones in hearing lessons.
Thursday 4.
Anne & I very glad the showers have begun to come after all the tiresome
wind. I was just as busy as could be putting pictures back in the lovely
finished play room; I was pretty tired when p.m. came and was glad I had
sent word to Mrs. Barney, that I would not have my hair done this week.
The "extras" all go so much more slowly for me than ever before.
Fri. May 5, 1899
The dull, disheartened feeling does not come with such regularity now nor
is it of such long continuance, -- and I am thankful to say, -- but I did
feel pretty forlorn all the p.m. as did dear W.; he slept on lounge till
nearly 5 p.m., and I read back NY Posts till then. Little Gardner quite
recovered and merry again. Good letter from Mamie.
Saturday 6.
Lloyd and lessons took most of the a.m. Helen had a good time under the
trees all the a.m. with Anne & Dilwyn & her little people. A splendid
shower came up in p.m., so the base ball game did not take place and our
four older children were disappointed. I mended till hot bath time. We did
not give Edith & Gardner their baths, because of cold.
Sun. May 7, 1899
A windy blowy disagreeable day - just the kind to set one's nerves agog.
W. jr. the only one to go to our church. I took the other three children
to hear Dr. Slocum preach - his text was from Ex. 14:15 and was helpful
to me; nose cold seems to be "on me" again - I took to bed, for
the p.m. and I hope it will be the last "loaf" at home of that
kind; I am still so disheartened at times.
Monday 8.
Very thankful to feel better and to be up & doing pretty vigorously.
W. sr. went to Cripple Creek, so Annie & I put linens on downstairs
furniture. Just as I was about making some calls in the neighborhood, Dr.
Hart called for a moment or two. A beautiful shower came after he went.
I am glad Dr. H. thinks it is nice for all to go East.
Tues. May 9, 1899
I worked on summer fittings for blue room most of the a.m., til W. called
me to read his paper to him. There is still considerable "talk"
in town about small pox, so at noon, W. telephoned up to Dr. H. to come
& vaccinate out little children. He turned up the latter part of p.m.
& "did" 6 children, Anna, Sarah & me!
Wednesday 10.
Greatly shocked to receive telegram at breakfast telling us of little Rebecca's
death, -- poor Aunt S -- & brother Caleb! - how my heart aches for them!
I wrote to Kennett at once. Busy upstairs all a.m. & in p.m. took Everett
& Roland down town with me on errands. Selected wall paper etc., and
a few sailor hats for this summer. A's big boy 15 to-day!
Thur. May 11, 1899
It seems very long this year, this getting thro' the painting and spring
extras - some days too, I can make so much less headway than on others.
Anne's and Will's letters received about going to Mrs. Barker's this summer;
we cannot make definite decisions till we hear from Mrs. Barker herself.
Mrs. Barney came to do my hair. Miss Stuart & I went to hear Miss Olin's
reading; I was too stupid.
Friday 12.
Mrs. Barker's letter came as regards times for our summer accommodations,
and W. & I in talking it over decided that we needed the downstairs
room, whether we took the other four or not. W. decided to send telegraphic
message to find if it were still at our disposal. Kept very busy all day
and tho' missing my baby all the time, at last, I am braver to bear her
absence. My face broken out.
Sat. May 13, 1899
The last day of Lloyd lessons for the big boys, so they brought home all
their tools and were happy, in their possession, W.jr., taking his to his
3rd floor room, and Everett putting his in his tool chest. Helen, Roland,
Edith & W.jr., went to hear the phonograph at May Howbert's and came
home, very happy. I had letters from home saying how glad they all are that
we plan to go East this summer. Hot baths as usual.
Sunday 14.
I had a short duration of suffering, of the mental kind, before going to
church. The four older children went with me, & were a comfort to me
during the communion services, tho' they are so sad to me now. We all had
a drive in the p.m. to the cañon, taking Bennie & little Eleanor
Van Vechten with us. Of course I longed to go to Margaret's grave, but it
seemed wiser not to do so, because of the small box so near.
Mon. May 15, 1899
It is good to have it so cool and comfortable; it helps wonderfully in going
thro' all that has to be done preparatory to our departure for the summer.
At last I finished all the summer work in blue room, and sorted out some
more of the winter clothes. Mabel called just as I was ready to rest. In
p.m. went out on errands again, so was ready to go to bed early.
Tuesday 16.
Our darling little Margaret would be 14 mos. Old to-day, if she could have
stayed with us! Mrs. Parsons called and it is just three months to-day since
her beautiful little Josephine died; she stayed in her earthly home only
a year longer than our precious baby girl whose company I miss every hour
of the day. Busy at extras nearly all day, & thankful to feel like attending
to them.
Wed. May 17, 1899
Lonely as the going thro' the little clothes I had hoped baby Margaret would
wear, I am so thankful to feel stronger & like working nearly all the
time again! Miss Clark came to lunch and gave the children a happy afternoon;
just she and I were in charge by ourselves for dear Nellie did not feel
well and went to see Dr. Gilden who said she needed a rest before going
East; Sallie will help me out [as she has been helping Helen Sharon to take
a little vacation the past week. -this text continued into next day's entry.]
Thursday 18.
[text from above continues here]
I went down town on errands for children
& self which took most of my a.m. ; after lunch I slipped down again
to have satisfaction of [Nit'ge?] executed for Nathan. I am so sorry to
hear that his little Gertrude has whooping cough. Nellie thinking of taking
a rest next week, & I know she needs it or she would not have consulted
with the Dr.
Fri. May 19, 1899
Poor Nellie did not feel at all well, so just had to give up in p.m. and
go to the Glockner. W.jr. took her bag for her to the cars. Sallie will
be willing to help as nurse beginning Sunday p.m., for by that time Helen
S. thinks she will be rested enough to take her department again. Busy at
extras all the a.m. and of course there was not much p.m. because of Nellie's
going.
Saturday 20.
It seems lonely without Nellie. We did not have the playroom cleaned this
week, so that Anna could relieve me sooner. I heard the children's lessons
while in charge. We also abandoned hot baths at the usual time, as I went
to bid Mrs. Taylor "Goodbye" and it was a sad one, with her sweet
Edith so very ill to start out on the long long journey! We bathed the four
big ones after dinner.
Sun. May 21, 1899
The first Sunday since my precious little baby girl was taken from me that
I have had a little "Sunshine of the Soul." I felt too tired to
go to church, so my dear "big four" went by themselves just as
good as could be. They all went driving in p.m. Sallie & Annie both
going so that I could take a rest, but who should turn up, but Wm B. J.;
he took me on a little airing after the others returned.
Monday 22.
Right after breakfast, I ran around to Miss Hattie's to see if Miss Helen
& Mrs. Hood were coming, so as to have them in while Will is here. Miss
H. expected them so we made our preparations for informal dinner. Mrs. Hill
came in Mrs. Hood's absence. It is a great source of relief to me to again
enjoy having friends in - the other condition has seemed so unnatural!
Tues. May 23, 1899
A happier birthday (the 40th!) than I dared hoped for, since my sad, hard
winter, -- Mrs. Hallett's coming was lovely; her presence is always a source
of strength & comfort. Mrs. Maguire stayed on till evening train so
I was able to give her & Mrs. Hallett a drive in p.m. Mrs. Thayer called
just before we started for the cañons. W. sr. enjoyed the Tesla dinner
very much.
Wednesday 24.
Rather tired after yesterday's jaunt but also refreshened in mind &
body by dear Mrs. H's helpful visit. I did not get quite so many extras
done as I hoped to because of having to spend so much time out of doors.
Nellie told me she could not go with us, so I hunted up her successor finding
thro' Mrs. Slocum that Lizzie Eliott would go with us. W. seemed pleased
with the plan.
Thurs. May 25, 1899
It is all settled that Nellie is not strong enough to go East with us, &
that we are to take in her place the College young woman Lizzie Eliott.
W. sr. was as pleased with her as I, so I hope the plan will be successful.
Out on errands, so made a little call on Misses Dorsey while they are still
in Dr. G's house near us. It is so good to enjoy being busy again!
Friday 26.
I did not get up as early as I hoped to, but only too glad that work again
seems not only easy but joyful, tho' not missing my blessed little Margaret
one whit less than when I seemed so paralyzed. Sallie took little Edith
to Dr. Hart who gave a prescription for her mean little "hack"
- her tonsils seem so enlarged. They went to see Nellie who is sitting up
a little. I did a little packing.
Sat, May 27, 1899
I had one of my very early wakings and so accomplished the hardest part
of my day's work before breakfast - the going into the cellar and getting
out rugs etc; & looking over trunks to go East. Then mended which rested
me during later a.m. W. slept till noon; the children had a grand play,
Helen taking lunch with Anne P. Hot baths came in regular fashion to-night;
Mrs. Stevens called & saw me in playroom.
Sunday 28.
A bright beautiful a.m., and as we do not expect to be here for Children's
Sunday, I took little Edith to church for the first time, & she was
just as good as a kitten. Mr. Gregg's sermon on "Watching." In
p.m. went to our darling Margaret's little grave & place[sic] the first
cuttings from our snowball bush there. We took wildflowers to Nellie on
our return & Gardner & I were glad to see her brighter. R a cold.
Mon. May 29, 1899
Considerable preparation for this week's washing which will be very large.
Roland felt too forlorn with his [cartarrhal?] cold to go to school and
yet not too ill to keep out of mischief-poor little man! He soaked Edith
with hose, so had to go to bed when she & Gardner took their naps. Mable
called in a.m. & Mrs. Washburn in p.m. I enjoyed both visits very much.
Tuesday 30.
It is such a joy that I can again "take hold" of things in the
old way, tho' missing my darling baby Margaret all the time. Roland went
to school & lost his books on returning home. I was just as busy as
possible all day; the boys thought it fun to help me out with the trunks.
Now they feel as if they were really going! I went to Miss Stewart's for
a cup of tea in honor of Mrs. Holm.
Wed. May 31, 1899
Still no rain, but most thankful for the bright cool a.m. Roland went to
school, but came home looking tired. W. sr. took him to Dr. Gilder, who
said he had a third tonsil which ought to be removed, so an appointment
was made for Sat. a.m.! I made headway in packing, but sorry to have to
contemplate the above kind of an interruption. Judge and Mrs. Holm called.
Thur. June 1.
Up before the birds so accomplished quite a little before the house was
astir; I had to skip out on errands and to the dressmaker's, so not much
time for packing during the day. Mrs. Barney came in p.m., our trunks all
went to be repaired. Nellie called at noon, but did not seem as strong as
we might wish. I am so thankful to feel like myself again.
Friday June 2, 1899
No interruptions to-day, so I made good headway on packing. I am soon to
leave the cellar in an uncleaned state, but Henry will see to that after
we are gone. The children did errands for me in p.m. & also for themselves,
getting ready for their picnic to-morrow. I made out checks for last month,
& gave orders for flowers on Clark's bill.
Saturday 3.
Poor little Roland had to go thro' quite an ordeal this a.m., in having
a third tonsil cut out-Dr. Gilder & Dr. Hart arrived soon after 10 a.m.-the
poor little fellow was pretty brave till he saw the kitchen table, etc.
in preparation-he stayed in bed all day and was very good. W, H, & E.
had a good time on their picnic, hot baths on their return.
Sun. June 4, 1899
Still no rain, but very cool & comfortable. I wrote a note to Mamma
before breakfast. As Roland was not feeling very spunky after yesterday's
experience, we all went over to the Baptist church and heard Dr. Henson
of Chicago preach on the "Desire of All Nations." We had a happy
family drive in p.m. to Manitou-all but the lonliness [sic] without baby
Margaret.
Monday 5.
Up with the birds to go on with my [work?] in packing, because W. has taken
the stateroom & adjoining berths for Wednesday night. It was a comfort
to have no callers so I made good progress. Poor W. jr. hunted in vain for
his [report?] Roland spunky enough to go to school with the others. Dr.
Slocum took dinner with us which was pleasant.
Tues. June 6, 1899
Not a bit of a scramble all day, but just good steady work; I had to go
out on my last errands, so that I did not have as much time for trunks as
yesterday. W. jr. very happy over his retention of the medal, and little
H, also, over her book, "The Little Colonel" as her prize for
best average. And little boys came home happy too; and no more school!
Wednesday 7.
It is just a year ago that our dear baby Margaret had her first serious
illness & Miss Bradley was with us; dear little daughter, how I am missing
in all these happy preparations for the others; by keeping steadily at work
all day, I finished the packing and it was very pleasant to have Will turn
up for dinner with us, and to see us off on our train.
Thur. June 8, 1899
Just a year ago our darling baby Margaret was very ill and here we are going
East without her, and it is still so hard to live without the precious baby
girl, sweet as it is to be going to my people again. The children all up
early for breakfast and proved themselves good travelers all day. I was
dull-the loafing felt good. Annie tired also.
Friday 9.
W. jr. woke us all early so as to see the Mississippi River, & the whole
stateroom party was dressed much earlier than was necessary. Annie left
us when we reached Chicago, and there we had a good breakfast, & left
for Boston at 10:00. Helen found some sweet "twins" on board and
so there was visiting all day among the little folks.
Sat. June 10 1899
It has been a delight to W. & me to see what wonderfully good travelers
all our little folks have proved, from little Gardner up! The day did not
seem long at all because it was our last one, --and how good it was to see
aunt Mamie at the station & later Grandma and Aunt Edith joined us-the
latter ready to go to Newport with us, which we reached about 8 p.m.
Sunday 11.
It was quite a job to get all the dirty little travelers thro' their hot
baths & ready for breakfast! Mrs. Barker had everything in readiness
for us. We loafed all day-the children had to go to the beach and came home
with such wet feet that we let the older ones go barefooted at once. I had
to take a nap in p.m. Air very good even tho' damp.
Mon. June 12 1899
W. wanted to go in town and as his jr. was too enamored of the salt water,
I decided to accompany him. Dawson gave us a lift to the trolley car, --
and we had a good time doing errands together and then walked out-that was
pretty warm work and not so good for my broken out face as it might be.
We both rested in p.m. The children very happy at beach both a.m. and p.m.
Tuesday 13.
I had a great time over my large washing list but I had the soiled clothes
out at door in good season, and it will not be as large again with the boys
& girls barefoot & in overalls! I can just sleep any time I give
myself a chance in this damp foggy climate-it seems to suit us all. The
children very happy in the change and it rests me.
Wed. June 14, 1899
Pretty sultry, but all the moisture does feel good. I mailed my letters,
or rather had them ready for Dawson early. Still too foggy for us to take
the ocean drive so "Papa" took five of the tots into town with
him, and I stayed and read to Everett. Miss Woolsey sent me a rose by the
children which I put near Margaret's photograph. Little Gardner seems to
be doing very well indeed and Edith as plump as butter.
Thursday 15.
Another foggy day, but still we do not mind it, the poor little feet getting
better, and Aunt Edith very faithful in her nursing of them. I had a good
letter from Anne & Mamie, --the latter getting discouraged about going
to Wolfboro; as Mamma has not yet begun packing for her return. The days
here very lazy & comfortable.
Fri. June 16, 1899
W. and I took an early start with Dawson, W. to Boston for the day and I
just drove in to see him off, and do errands at Boston Store, etc., dear
Aunt E.'s tact and devotion to the children made it perfectly comfortable
for me to be away . On my return, I did the washing of bands, my own hair,
& brushes; so in p.m., I took a good rest; Aunt E. went off for the
beautiful pink orchids & came home with beautiful bunch. Dear Baby M.
would be 15 mos. old to-day!
Saturday 17.
W. returned about midnight after a successful day in Boston; he slept late,
so I mended lining of his coat before his breakfast; I also worked on a
little galatea suit for H., taking a nap, however, in our nice new hammock
before lunch; W. sr. took a long one in p.m. while I looked over clean clothes
and helped Lizzie with baths for the little ones. A beautiful p.m. &
almost too bad we did not take ocean drive. Little Gardner so cunning in
[overalls].
Sun. June 18, 1899
Awake rested at a good time and first of all I attended to W's clothes;
we have half an hour more, Sunday a.m. before breakfast so that made it
perfectly easy to get in the four "older baths." We had a very
happy a.m. Aunt E. took the older children off to see Mrs. Kendall, and
while W. sr. was in town, I rested in the hammock and in the p.m. we all
took the wonderful ocean drive together, & hated to have it over.
Monday 19.
W. left us last evening for N.Y., and it seemed lonely all day without him.
The children had their first reading hour at which my big boy W. was a little
troublesome. The children all had a trip to Beach in p.m., & while they
were gone I picked up soil [sic] clothing & made out washing list. Retired
early & so missed the Kendall's visit but Edith was on hand.
Tues. June 20, 1899
A most comfortable day. I took quite a rest in the hammock before beginning
on my a.m.'s sewing. The children had their noon reading hour indoors today.
W. jr. writing to his father during that time. Aunt Edith & Lizzie took
all the tots to the beach in p.m. & while they were gone, Jamie Gregg
called & later Miss Woolsey & Miss Dora, the children returned before
the latter was gone. I went to bed early.
Wednesday 21.
Quite surprise [sic] that no storm from last evening's threat[en?], that
seemed like Colorado. The a.m.'s are beautiful and I am very thankful to
feel like improving them by, at last, getting square in my correspondence.
Don Gregg came to lunch without Raynor. The "Buffalo Bill Show"
was the greater attraction. We all enjoyed Don's visit; he and Jamie are
sweet manly fellows.
Thur. June 22, 1899
The wind woke me even earlier than usual! But it did not worry me, as I
was glad to begin writing at day light. The children all woke in good season,
but are very good till Lizzie comes to my assistance. Aunt Edith took the
boys off on a lovely tramp in a.m. and in p.m. they were pleasantly surprised
by Raynor's call; he joined his school mates at the third beach for supper.
Friday 23.
Up early again, & still at the kind notes written to me when Darling
Margaret died, only answering them now. Aunt Edith has enjoyed reading them.
The Express package from N.Y. came safely & gave perfect satisfaction,
so now even our little girls are in overalls! Edith & I took a lovely
walk up to the Kendall's in p.m., but we saw only Mrs. K.; we stopped at
Mrs. [Peckham's] on our way home.
Sat. June 24, 1899
While I was mending early I happened to look out of Anne's window and there
saw my W. sr arriving, a most pleasant surprise! Then Anne came about noon
with her dear boys & little girl, so it was a day quite full of excitement
and pleasure. A thunder storm came up just as Lizzie & I were giving
Edith & Gardner hot baths. Ruth took supper with them.
Sunday 25.
W. sr. took W. jr. off on a tramp in town with him; they drove home &
evidently had had a good time. I read Bible stories to my little boys at
home, and about noon the rain came pouring down & lasted all the p.m.,
so the cousins had a lively time indoors. I read considerable all. Anne
too tired to join us till
Noon. "Aunt Kitty" a host.
Mon. June 26, 1899
A beautiful morning after yesterday's splendid rain; I was up at 4 a.m.
to begin on wash list, & mending; I had just about finished it by six
a.m. when Polly came up for the clothes. "Papa" went down with
us all to the beach, and Anne and I with Lizzie and the three littlest tots
went in bathing; the latter did not like it at all. W. sr. took a carry
all of people into town in p.m.
Tuesday 27.
I slept till five a.m., & was much refreshed by cool night. I sat under
trees with sewing, so as to be with my big W. as much as possible these
last days he is with us. In p.m. we did our last errands together taking
with us in the carryall the children who did not drive yesterday. "Papa"
bought two beautiful wheels for W.jr. & H. Days are going all too fast.
Wed. June 28, 1899
An overcast morning-the kind I like; it went like a flash, being W.sr's
last night with us. "Dick" Pell came over to lunch with us and
the children behaved very well. It rained hard as little Gardner & I
went out to see "Papa" off on his train for Boston. I did a few
errands before coming back to Mrs. Barker's. It seemed very lonely without
W. I went to bed early.
Thursday 29.
It was rather a doubtful a.m., so undecided as to our wearing apparel for
Miss Woolsey's luncheon. It cleared at noon, however, and we enjoyed our
time with Miss W. & Miss Dorn very much. On our return home, the tots
all looked well cared for and happy, & then Anne & I returned to
the station for Mamma who came to us on the 7 o'clock train. I telegraphed
to W. at Chicago.
Fri. June 30, 1899
Anne & I a little tired after yesterday's festivities, and so were glad
just to loaf around home with Mamma; it was lovely to have her so delighted
with the coolness. W.jr. & H. very happy over their new wheels. "Papa's"
good letter came while we were all on the piazza reading "Elizabeth
& her letters from a German Garden." Dear Aunt Edith had "school"
for me so I could loaf with the babies. Lizzie took a ride into town on
her wheel.
Sat. July 1.
Another lovely cool a.m. I could not sleep after 2 a.m. but of course did
not get up till daylight when I began on my day's correspondence. Mamma
& I sewed on piazza near Edith who took to the housework today. Anne
had her salt water bath & her ride on her wheel. I am lazy about going
to the shore, but must "spunk up" after my return from Nantucket.
Hot baths for littlest folks.
Sun. July 2, 1899
Pleasant but rather warmer than it has been. Mamma, Helen, Everett J, Roland
& I drove into Old Trinity Church, which interested us much as well
as the short, good sermon on Friendship by Mr. Stone. Anne took my Helen
and W. & her Everett to Berkeley Chapel in p.m., Mr. Drinan going with
them after his pleasant call upon us. Edith in bed all day and her nieces
& nephews all devotion!
Monday 3.
The a.m.'s are lovely and I am so happy to be again improving them. Mamma
& I the first ones up in Mrs. Barker's house. I sewed a while while
Anne was reading aloud in Aunt Edith's room the delightful "Elizabeth
& her German Garden." In p.m. "Grandma", Aunt Anne, little
Ruth, my Everett & I went in town on errands and to call on Miss Woolsey
& Miss Dorn. We were very sorry to find them away.
Tues. July 4, 1899
The quietest Fourth of July I have known for many a year. The few fire crackers
that Everett D. had, & the Jackson torpedoes were soon gone! I devoted
myself a.m. & p.m. to getting ready for our trip to Nantucket to-morrow.
It isn't so much getting out things as leaving everything in good order.
Aunt Anne & Aunt Edith chaperoned a party of young folks to see fireworks
in the neighborhood.
Wednesday 5.
Up in very good season to finish my preparations for my going away. A "misty
moisty morning" which made Grandma feel forlorn, & the children
& me very good! Helen a great comfort; she gave me invaluable assistance
both in the cars and the boat to Nantucket, very hot going thro' Taunton
& other places. Saw W. a few moments in T. Lucilla & Dorothea joined
us at Wood's Hole, & a jolly welcome at N. by Jennie & her girls.
Thur. July 6, 1899
Quite a sultry foggy a.m., but none the less pleasant to me this summer!
Jennie & I sat out in piazza and visited till little Gardner's nap time
when I wrote my card to M. at Newport, and my letter to W. in the far West.
In p.m. Jeannie drove her houseful of guests, leaving little G. & me
for our first visit on Miss Gardner'; she looked pretty sick, but was so
tranquil & sweet & so pleased with her little namesake.
Friday 7.
Still quite sultry, little G. broke my night and roused the others by crying
"we won't be good, we won't be good." He wanted to get into my
bed. He was bright & good in early morning. Helen & I went to see
dear E.G. at his naptime; she seemed about as yesterday. After our rest
in p.m. we took a lovely drive to the surf beach, and on our return home
stopped another few moments at Capt. Baxter's to say Good bye to Miss Gardner.
Sat. July 8, 1899
Dear A's 42nd birthday. I was up at 4 a.m. in order to be sure that everything
was ready for our early start by the Nantucket boat for Newport. Olive Reed
came back with us and she was very sweet & helpful. Helen & Gardner
wonderfully good travelers, the later sleeping on hurricane deck from Wood's
Hole to New Bedford. It poured as we left Taunton, but was not bad as we
reached Newport & such radiant faces as greeted [continued in next entry
]
Sunday 9.
[continued from above entry]
my return; it almost paid to be away
just to see them. We were too tired to plan to go into church. Anne read
to quite an assembly of boys after breakfast, so I could "pick up"
a little; I rested while the children were resting & then wrote notes
to my big W. & Nathan. A delightfully cool day, but rather "blowy."
Grandma & I & five of the children took a walk to the beach in p.m.,
Aunt E. & W.jr. joining us later.
Mon. July 10, 1899
A busy day here as well at home because of getting things ready for the
wash. And to-day I prepared the better clothes, that we soiled on our journey,
for a woman in town, so I had the two lists to make out. In p.m. Mamma &
I, W.jr., Helen & Ruth all drove to town for quite a list of errands.
I went to a homeopathic Dr. about my face; arsenicum was prescribed as well
as a total abstinence from beef.
Tuesday 11.
All of us quite exercised over Eva's unwillingness to take a week's vacation
while Lizzie makes her N.J. visit; so poor Mamma had quite a time deciding
what was best to do; but much to our relief, she said [K.?] might go to
Boston to help M. close the house, & that would give Eva the week's
notice necessary before her departure for good! Mamma really very tired,
or she never would have come to this conclusion.
Wed. July 12, 1899
Up in good season to sew and write before breakfast. No further news from
Mamie 11 o'clock mail, so K. kept to her plan of going to Boston in p.m.;
she and Anne went to see Dr. Cleveland before dinner. We all hated see dear
Aunt Edith go. I took a long nap after her departure so could not help take
care of children as I had planned. Weather much warmer. Mamma's cold pretty
bad.
Thursday 13.
The house seems very much quieter without dear "Aunt Kitty" who
has found herself a host with the children. I did my usual writing and "picking
up" in early p.m. & then after breakfast went to work on my sewing.
I took all six of the children to the beach in p.m., and we all went in
bathing, even little Gardner and Edith having on bathing suits again &
enjoying a pretense of the real fun.
Fri. July 14, 1899
Up in good season to shut the blinds in downstairs room & in Helen's
& Edith's room, then I mended in library till Gardner & Roland woke
up. The weather quite a little warmer for this place. Anne again in bathing.
I had a bad "crick" in my back, so I gave it up for to-day, and
attended to mending, etc. I had letters from W. who was in a "mix up"
over me & whom I took to Nantucket, but a p.m. letter to W.jr. showed
he was straightened out. The four big boys went to see the Torpedo boats.
Saturday 15.
Up earlier enough to write to W., Margaret, Hannah Kate S, and May H, before
breakfast. Lizzie took the children to their baths in the ocean; they were
a little late in bringing Edith & Gardner back for their naps. Helen
read to us under the trees while I was mending for the wash. Glad of good
letters from M. & K. in p.m. i.e. Aunt K's was to W.jr. News also of
Faith & Gregg's engagement.
Sun. July 16, 1899
Mamma had a bad spell of coughing in the night; Anne & I both went in
to her; she said she did not feel ill. I did not get much sleep after that,
thinking of my darling baby M. who would be 16 months to-day. A rainy rainy
Sunday, so all of us stayed at home. Anne and I took turns with reading
to the children. I had a good nap while A. had them at noon. Will came at
3 pm.; his W. & E. going over to meet him.
Monday 17.
A very warm day, altogether the warmest we have had yet; we were rather
relieved when I found that Mr. Dawson could not take us in town in the p.m.
because of going to meet Mr. & Mrs. Merriam of Springfield. The children
behaved wonderfully well at supper and we hope it will prove a help to have
a gentleman at the head of the table. Mamma's cold better, but she felt
the heat of the day very much. Good letters from Aunt Edith and "Papa."
Tues. July 18, 1899
A little breeze cam up about four o'clock which was most refreshing after
a warm night. I sat out in piazza to write to K. before the children were
awake. Mamma and I went in town before lunch as I happened to think that
otherwise we should not see Dr. Stanton. He gave Mamma quite a no. of prescriptions
which I hope will break up her persistent cough. We did all sorts of errands
after our lunch & made no calls.
Wednesday 19.
Mamma greatly relieved that Dawson has probably learned of the cape Mamma
dropped out of carriage yesterday. A great relief to have it so much cooler.
I loafed nearly all day, after my a.m. letters and lessons with children
were attended to. The four older children had their ocean bath before dinner.
W. jr. wrote to "Papa", & the others all read to me. Anne
busy planning a trip to Taunton.
Thurs. July 20, 1899
Still cooler, a most delightful breeze coming from the North, so all the
rooms comfortable last night. I began writing about 5 o'clock. The children
all up in good season, too. Word came from M. & K. that they would be
here on Evening boat, the same on that Lizzie wished to take for N.Y. Glad
to have a line from W.sr. saying he approved of L's going for a week. Busy
day changing trunks, putting away clothes, etc. I woke in time to greet
M&K.
Friday 21.
Both looked pretty tired from their efforts in closing house for Mamma;
but I am thankful she did not try to do it, she seems so very tired; her
cold is better, tho' her cough still holds on very long. Mamie & I had
a lovely drive with Mrs. Pell, not getting home till almost two o'clk. We
were too late for the Yacht race, but the Ocean drive is always delightful.
Aunt Edith takes hold as if she were always "nurse" to children.
Dear Mamie 34 years old to-day.
Sat. July 22, 1899
Mr. Merriam gave the children & we "grown ups" after breakfast
in his first reading from "Uncle Remus." Aunt Edith took W.jr.
and Roland into town for me, the former for shoes, the latter for his eye.
Aunt Mamie & Aunt Anne had Helen & Everett in bathing with them,
while I put Edith & little Gardner to bed and rested myself a while
with them. The children had a lovely letter from "Papa." Mr. &
Mrs. Copeland came to spend Sunday with Manton.
Sunday 23.
Grandma's cold still better and we are much relieved. Thundering in early
a.m. without rain. Storm came after breakfast. Mr. & Mrs. Merriam the
only ones who went to church. Annie read to the boys while I took a rest
with Edith & Gardner when at their naps. In p.m. there was a bicycle
party over to the Berkeley Chapel and Anne joined that. Aunt Edith took
three young men to call on the Kendalls, and I took my darlings to the beach.
Mon. July 24, 1899
A warm overcast a.m. Mr. Copeland formed a party to take the Cliff Walk.
My W.jr., and Aunt Mamie joined it as well as Mr. & Mrs. Merriam. They
returned about 2 o'clock delighted with their trip. Anne drove in with Mrs.
Copeland, taking her Everett and little Ruth. Aunt Edith did not feel very
well and had to go to bed, so Aunt M. & I "tended" the children.
Mrs. Sturtevant called while we were in charge, also Mrs. Pell.
Tuesday 25.
A lovely rain storm. I was up early enough to write to W. before breakfast,
and that was all. I gave Dawson a check to cash. Mr. Merriam kindly read
"Uncle Remus" to the children after breakfast then I had lessons
with my boys; while the three little ones were sleeping we "grown-ups"
joined Aunt E. & read aloud in her room; "Elizabeth & her German
Garden" was our delight with a.m. & p.m., finishing it at supper
time.
Wed. July 26 1899
Another lovely moist a.m. I was thru' my bath and writing by five a.m.;
notes to dear W. & Annie [Hogan?] first. It proved much too uncertain
a day to think of going in town. Mr. Merriam gave us another reading from
Uncle Remus which started things pleasantly for the day. We began "Solitary
Summer" but did not read together as much as yesterday. Mamma better.
A party went to bathe in p.m.
Thursday 27.
At last Mamma & I were able to make our trip into town taking with us
Everett and Roland. We went to Dr. Santon's first, as Mamma needed her prescriptions.
I had to buy a new "Uncle Remus" for Redwood Library. We accomplished
quite a number of errands the two hours & a half that we were gone!
On my return to dinner found four letters from [Lou?], Suzie W., Caroline
H. & dear W. Good to have Aunt Edith down again.
Fri. July 28, 1899
Quite a memorable day among the happy Newport experiences-the arrival of
Everett D's billy goat and cart! The string of eight children going to meet
it & then of its reception! Lizzie returned from N.Y., so that was a
relief and satisfaction. About four o'clk Billy D. drove Anne, Mamma &
me to make some calls. We returned Miss Arnold's, Mrs. Berkstans's, The
Kendall's, etc.!
Saturday 29.
A lovely a.m., and all the older children up in good season to see how billy
goat fared. It is a pleasure to see how much satisfaction he gives to our
band of little people! Mamma & I mended most of the day. Mr. M. read
in the a.m. to the children, and they read short lessons after the ocean
baths. The four youngest had their hot baths. Glad of good letter from "Papa."
Sun. July 30, 1899
A rainy a.m.! I wrote to W. before breakfast, afterwards I had the children
in my room till Anne was ready to read to them. I took a little rest while
Edith & Gardner were taking their naps. The flies would not let me sleep
long! It cleared in p.m. so Aunt Edith took Jacob & we all drove over
to Berkeley Chapel to hear Mr. Stone preach - dear little G's first appearance
at church & he appeared most at home.
Monday 31.
A wonderfully cool a.m.-a fresh breeze from the North. It is a great pleasure
to see Mamma getting stronger-her appetite is much better now. I had good
letter from W., just before taking my salt water bath. Only Everett &
Roland went with me. The other children had engagements, the little ones
their naps; & the biggest ones were off on their wheels with Aunties
Anne & Mamie.
Tues. Aug. 1, 1899
A lovely a.m. I wrote out in piazza before sunrise-much less fog lately.
I sent a small washing into town by Dawson, also my July check to cash.
Gave most of it to E.C.B. in appreciation of all she is doing for me this
summer. Helen & her big brother went off on a wheel trip while I took
the two middle sized boys in bathing with me - the water very cold so I
did not stay in long. No word from Aunt M. Good letter from W.
Wednesday 2.
I did not dare go in bathing to-day as I did not feel quite so well after
yesterday's plunge - then too there was shortness of time, as I had clean
clothes to put away and the trip to town in p.m. Aunt Edith & her namesake
had their photographs taken while little Gardner & Roland kept me company
at the dentist's. Dr. Brackett found plenty to do in the poor old tooth
that gave me concern. Home quite late, so that the people at Mrs. B's had
begun to be alarmed!
Thur. Aug. 3, 1899 [continues into Friday 4.]
I was up early enough to write dear W's letter and to send checks to Harry
for stockings & to Dr. Brackett for my teeth. Quite a foggy day-the
reading by Mr. Merriam came later in a.m. than usual, so I washed hair in
the first part of a.m. All of us much interested in hearing of Regina Lunt's
engagement to Mr. Clarence Phelps Dodge. Mrs. L. wrote of it from Providence.
She may come to see us. Very nice to have Dorothea Whorf with us-she is
staying over at the other Mrs. Barkers where Mamma will go as soon as she
feels she [sic] sure Aunt M. & Hannah are coming. Word came at last
this p.m. that they hoped to start for Newport next Monday. Mamie very busy
preparatory to leaving for N.H. to-morrow. Colds all better. We hope Mamma's
is at last checked.
Friday 4. [entry above continues into space for Friday 4.]
Sat. Aug. 5, 1899
Because of having hot baths before breakfast to-day, I did not find a moment
for writing to W. - it rained early so W.R.D. kindly offered to drive us
in town to meet Mabel L. We did errands before and after going to the train,
& so did not get out to the house much before luncheon. Mabel looking
very well, took a good rest under the trees after her nap, had supper, then
a romp with the children, & then she was off again for N.Y. I rode in
with her.
Sunday 6.
Because of being up late last evening did not feel like getting up early,
so loafed in bed as long as the children would let me. I read to the children
out under the trees, no one in a very good listening mood. It cleared off
at noon, so even Grandma decided to go to services at Berkeley Chapel, Billy
again driving old Jacob for me. Mr. Drinan preached and we were all very
glad to hear him. Edith & Gardner very good. I wrote to W. & Nathan.
Mon. Aug. 7, 1899
Such a busy day getting everything in readiness for Aunt M. & Dr. Hannah.
Mamma was moved over to other house by noon & in middle of p.m. word
came that our expected guests would arrived [sic] at seven p.m., -- so W.jr.
went with Dawson to meet them and I took late supper with the Aunts &
Jr. Aunt E. went in town on her wheel. Very good to see Dr. H. & Aunt
M.
Tuesday 8.
Dear Everett's birthday, the little Mt. born boy is 8 years old to-day.
He was quite happy to find his chair so full of presents when he came down
to breakfast. Mrs. Pell took Aunt H. & me into town, --& in p.m.
we all went on to the rocks near Purgatory; a most beautiful day; I am very
much delighted that we are having such good weather for Dr. & Aunt M.
Wed. Aug. 9, 1899
Another cool a.m. - thermometer only 50° when I first looked out-of-doors.
Mr. Merriam gave us a delightful reading from "Life & Letters"
from Caroline C. Briggs; Dawson brought our pretty new [Kemmas?], a good
letter came from W. but very sorry to hear that our Nellie may not be strong
enough to return to us. The Ocean Drive in p.m. a great delight to us all.
Everything perfect except the behavior of one or two!
Thursday 10.
Up very early to write to W. but went back again for a nap when dear little
Gardner first roused. Aunt M. & I took a little walk to-gether after
know [sic] of Lizzie's very narrow escape while bathing; the undertow carried
her out and but for a strong man's help in swimming to her & she being
able to float till he reached her, the summer would have had a very sad
ending. Ella very much upset. Lizzie very self controlled.
Friday. Aug. 11, 1899
A regular "drizzle drizzle," so Aunt M., Dr. H. & I decide
to give up going to Boston til Monday. Mrs. Merriam read "Uncle Remus"
to us all after breakfast. The children wonderfully contented considering
how much they have to be kept in these doubtful days. Aunt M. & sister
H., seem to be enjoying every moment of their visit with us. I had to take
a rest in p.m. & so was able to sit up in evening with my guests.
Saturday 12.
Still uncertain weather so we are quite satisfied not to be in Boston. A
short a.m., after Mr. M's pleasant reading, because of going going [sic]
over to "Grandma's" to dinner; about half past three it seemed
pleasant, so we drove in town and from there started out for Vanderbilt
Haven & "St. Mary's," but we had not gone far in that direction
before a dense fog arose! Everything very wet when we returned!
Sun. Aug. 13, 1899
Quite a safe a.m. to go in town. Aunt M. had a headache, so did not go,
so Aunt Edith went with sister H, Roland & me; and Wm jr. accompanied
us on his wheel. Rev. Alex McKay Smith preached well on the "Still
Small Voice." Aunt Annie invited Aunt Margaret to go with her to Berkeley
chapel in p.m., and Aunt Hannah & I also went in the old [carry?]-all,
taking Dorothea & Helen. Mr. [Drinan?] preached.
Monday 14.
A lovely a.m. for our trip into Boston. I hated to leave my darlings, &
yet I wanted to see all I could of Aunt M. & Dr. H. We reached Boston
about 10:30, Cousin Fanny meeting us. Dr. H. & I called first on Dr.
Culbertson at 33 Newberry St.; she was very cordial and especially glad
to see Sister H. After lunch and after visiting, Cousin F. took her these
"big women" over to Cambridge which is always lovely.
Tues. Aug. 15, 1899 [continues into section for Wed. Aug. 16, 1899]
Awake early and refreshed, so was the first one to bathe; I was glad to
feel like writing early to my big W. & to Suzie Wentworth about visiting
me at Newport. Right after breakfast Aunt Hannah & Fannie started for
down town. After I had seen Dora Cutler and May Rollins at Public Library,
I went down town where the others joined me. We did a very successful a.m's
shopping, rested p.m. til it was time to go to train and was I glad to be
back with my darlings at Newport, tho' it seemed lonely to return without
the Jackson sisters. Mamie met us in Boston and came back with me &
into my guest room, -- as I heard that Suzie could not come. Mrs. Brookstone's
pleasant lunch-I was very stupid because of being a little tired from yesterday's
jaunt. Anne took Mamma calling later in p.m.
Wednesday 16. [included in entry above]
Thur. Aug 17, 1899
Aunt Edith kindly gave Lizzie her p.m. while I was gone and I was very glad
for to-day was full enough with Mrs. Pell's party for the children, as well
as the Fair at [Boothdom?]! I was too tired to go to Either, so, after supervising
wardrobes, took a good nap, and then retired early. It is very good to have
Mamma really well again, & going to everything.
Friday 18.
Most of the household rather tired from yesterday's festivities, so not
much accomplished in the a.m. Mr. Merriam finished "Nights with Uncle
Remus" to the children. I had a letter from W. saying he might start
the 20th, but I shall still keep on writing till I know definitely. Another
fog is upon us, and with it very much warmer weather than the first of the
week.
Sat. Aug. 19, 1899
Still the fog continues, but we find plenty to do not withstanding. Mr.
Merriam gave a most delightful reading, the first from Wm. & Lucy Smith,
to Mamma & her four daughters; all of us mending. No news from dear
Papa, so we do not know whether he has started for us. We were all quite
disappointed that the fog was too dense for us to have a picnic to Shelly
Beach.
Sunday 20.
A damp sultry a.m. and none of us felt like going into church except Anne
who took Dorothea, her Everett & Roland. I did quite a stroke of work
in letters, and at last have answered all those that came when our darling
baby Margaret left us last winter. Aunt Edith had the big ones off with
her most all day. I took a nap in hammock. Hot!
Mon. Aug. 21, 1899
Up early to attend to wash lists, one for here, and one for town. I was
delighted to get a note from dear "Papa", but sorry to learn that
he could not leave before the 25th, & greatly shocked to hear of Mr.
Clayton's death. W.jr. went in town with Grandma & the Aunties Banfield
in a.m.; and Helen and I went in in p.m. to meet Jennie & her Helen.
It was so lovely that we took the ocean drive much to Jennie's enjoyment.
Tuesday 22.
Not a very bright morning but it cleared by eleven, so then Jennie &
Anne, & her Everett, & I went into the Casino, and enjoyed the sights
as well as the finals of tennis tournament. In p.m. we lounged till it was
time to take a dip in the ocean where some of us drove down in carryall
with old Jacob-this made the driving etc. much easier. Very stupid in p.m.
Wed. Aug. 23, 1899
Another "moisty, misty morning." Jennie and I called on Mamma
before starting for town. We met the letter carrier who gave Jennie her
letter but not the telegram, telling her to stay longer! Billy wheeled into
town with it, but reached the station just as Jennie's train was moving
out! Mamie and I did our errands and made our party calls. As long as the
children could not have their group taken at Mr. Kendall's Lizzie kindly
waited for her afternoon.
Thursday 24.
Our mornings seem very uncertain. Just as Mr. Merriam was about finishing
his delightful loud reading it poured, so we all had to take refuge in various
parts of the house. It cleared enough in p.m. for Mr. Kendall to take the
groups, so quite an undertaking to get all up there! Aunts Mamie & Edith
took care of the children in p.m. while Lizzie was in town and while I was
clearing up! Delighted to get W's telegram.
Fri. Aug. 25, 1899 [continues in entry for Saturday 26.]
Awake early and refreshed because of going to bed so early last evening.
I answered [Serene?] Marshall's letter about dear Alice G. i.e. I wrote
again to Alice whose serious illness is a great
great [sic.. intended grief?] to me. I also sent a card to Caroline H. K.
& I decided to drive in town on errands with Dawson and we had a funny
time because several of the stores were not opened! Nor the Shampooer ready,
& yet we had everything done before 10:20 for K. did my errands. We
all went in bathing on return & dear W. came in upon us at 8:30! Such
a reception as "Papa"; all the tots came pouring in to see him.
Little Gardner begged him to take a rest with him at naptime this morning
which W. was glad to do because of his long journey & fatigue therefrom.
I rested before lunch so as to be as fresh as possible for bicycle lesson,
& what fun it was to have W. share it with me! I wonder which one of
us will learn it first! Mrs. Peckam is kindly making me bicycle trousers.
Sat. Aug. 26. [included above]
Sun. Aug. 27, 1899
A beautiful day-all of us glad to stay quietly at home. Mr. & Mrs. Merriam
were the only ones to attend church. Grandma& Mamie came over and sat
with us under the trees. Will Davenport arriving about 11:30. Aunt Edith
came down to dinner and stayed in the hammock all the p.m. W. & I walked
down to beach & back with W. jr. and H. but we did not find the children
as we expected. I retired early because of Lizzie's going to church.
Monday 28.
Another lovely fall-like a.m. and I was refreshed & so dressed in good
season. It is so good to have dear "Papa" with us again. We had
a drive in town in a.m. and met Lucilla; Mamie drove in with W. jr., and
W. sr. and me. I had a nap after lunch and so was ready for bicycle lesson
with W. at four p.m. I am progressing but not as rapidly as W. who I think
enjoys the experiment. W. left on the Fall River boat for N.Y.
Tues. Aug. 29, 1899
Awake in good season & so wrote notes to W. and Suzie W. who I hope
will stay over a night at least. All had a good time bathing; I feel as
if each trip to the beach now, may be my last. May Hanson enjoyed seeing
all the tots in the bath. I was again ready for a good rest, after lunch
which put me in good humor for my bicycle lessons. Mrs. Peckham has helped
me on mending & with bicycle trousers.
Wednesday 30.
It seems very lonely without dear W., but no [sic] as lonely as when he
is so much farther away. I spent part of a.m. over in Mamma's piazza, with
my sewing; on return had to put away clean clothes etc. Children all very
well & happy, and delighted to go off on picnic with their Aunt Edith,
taking supper with them. I took mine with Grandma & Aunt M who did not
seem very well.
Thur. Aug. 31, 1899
My uncomfortableness and Anne's lameness of back resulted in our going to
Dr. Cleveland's together, & such times as we had, planning to avoid
Dawson's curiosity! Suzie came on 11 a.m. train, she had but the day with
us, so I gave another "whole sale" ocean drive in p.m. which proved
most delightful. I telegraphed to W. and Mabel L. after return.
Fri. Sept. 1
Because of our possible departure for home next week, I had to send in second
wash to-day - hence made a break in night to fix list. Anne kind enough
to let me go into Dr. C's again under pretence for her. Mamma rode in with
us, but I have not told her yet of the trouble. Dr. C. so relieved with
effect of medicine that he did not insert a bladder pessary.
Sat. Sept. 2, 1899
Very thankful to feel so much better, and very glad to see W safe back from
N.Y. & B. about noon - it was going to Boston to look up our arrangements
for going home that made him so much later than we expected in returning
to Newport. We sat & sewed in p.m., except dear Aunt K. & the children
who had a roll down the reservoir hill, and came home looking about as dirty
- but happy as possible!
Sunday 3.
A lovely day for our last Sunday in Newport. Aunt M. & Aunt K. took
most of the tots over to [Wakluse?], while I stayed quietly at home with
W. sr; in p.m. surprised to see our bicycle master arrive with one "built
for two" on which both W. & I each in turn took a ride. While easy,
it was a little too small for my comfort. Anne & Will were spectators,
as well as others.
Mon. Sept. 4, 1899
W. sr. and I set out for what errands we might accomplish in town on Labor
Day. The most important one for me, of course, was going to see Dr. C.,
but he was very late and so could only give a hurried diagnosis to W. etc.
And I think, on the whole, we were both glad that he decided to fit me out
with a pessary I was too tired to do much at packing in p.m. The children
off on a lovely picnic.
Tuesday 5.
W. again in Newport to make final arrangements for our start to-morrow;
and I had a busy, busy a.m. finishing the packing. In p.m. we had a lovely
little informal entertainment on the lawn, even Edith taking part in her
funny little way. Aunt M. "snapped" Mr. Merriam surrounded by
the children. W. sr. and I took dinner with Grandma, & she & M.
came over to supper with us.
Wed. Sept. 6, 1899
A beautiful cool a.m. to start on our journey - all the tots awake even
earlier than was necessary for our very early breakfast. Grandma and Aunt
Mamie drove over to see us off. Cousins Fannie, Mattie and [Issacher?] met
us at Boston where we had an hour to wait. The children very good all day.
I sent postal back to Newport when we reached Albany. Lizzie the only one
that was car sick. All went to bed early, after having good supper in the
diner.
Thursday 7.
Our train nearly two hours late, so we had breakfast very late; we took
out of our lunch basket when first awake. The weather as warm as any we
have had all summer; we all felt the heat very much especially little Garner;
and how glad we were to reach Chicago & go to the hotel for baths and
dinner. Annie met us and took the little girls to supper with her; so "Papa"
& I had only the boys.
Fri. Sept. 8, 1899
We were all very grateful to wake and find it so much cooler day [sic] for
to-day's journey. The car we were in was filled with Colorado Springs people;
the children very good all day, interested in sight seeing and the different
Nebraska cities etc. About 5 p.m. Mr. & Mrs. Gile with their family
joined ours and the children had a great time comparing notes etc.! I was
glad to settle for the night early.
Saturday 9.
We arrived in a "misty moisty morning" like one in Newport - the
home looked lovely to us all, but of course, seemed lonely with no suggestion
about of the darling baby girl, i.e. no baby carriage in the playroom, etc.
I put on old dress and with Nellie's help unpacked the numerous traveling
bags, sorting the soiled & clean clothes. Mrs. Hatch and Miss Clark
called in the p.m. The children all delighted to get at their old playthings!
Sun. Sept. 10, 1899
Dear little Gardner three years old to-day; I was too tired to go to church,
so I rested with little G. at his naptime. Sallie took all the others to
her church except W.jr., who went to his own church and heard Dr. Slocum.
Alice J went with us on the family drive in p.m. - we went into North Cheyenne
Ca?on where the children were very glad to romp once more.
Monday 11.
I did not try to unpack much as I had so much mending to do for the wash;
Sallie helped me with it, when she was thru' with all her other work. Mrs.
Lunt called just as I was glad to take a little rest. My physical ailment
caused me great discomfort all day. W.jr. went to Raynor Gardner's party
in the p.m. Dr. Slocum called before dinner but could not stay.
Tues. Sept. 12, 1899
I was so uncomfortable yesterday & last night, that W. wanted me to
go to Dr. Hart and report my condition as found by Dr. C. in Newport; Dr.
H's diagnosis the same as the one made in the East. W. met me in car and
we went together to see Husm and Alice; H. was out in his chair, & while
apparently comfortable, he looked very ill to me. Dr. H. came to see me
in p.m., and removed the pessary which gave more discomfort, than comfort.
Little Gardner sleeps very well now.
Wednesday 13.
Lizzie took a note to Alice J. asking if she would not join us for the Flower
Parade, but word came back that Husm had had his first hemorrhage last evening
& that of course she would not leave him. Dr. H. tried to make me in
comfortable condition for the Gala Day, but I was not --& then, too,
the grandstand was partially demolished by the wind storm, so W. & I
took the children to the Bank as quickly as possible, & Dr. H. came
to me again after dinner.
Thur. Sept. 14, 1899 [continues into entry for Friday, 15th]
Dr. H. came pretty soon after breakfast and inserted a tampon which gave
me wonderful relief all day. I could hardly believe myself the same woman
for, tho' busy over the rest of the unpacking, in p.m. I began to feel myself
much more comfortable. Early in the day, I was much the worse for the wear
& tear of yesterday. Glad of letters again from Newport. Dr. H. anxious
about Miss Stearns and Husm. The latter having had more hemorrhages, and
the former sinking very rapidly from her first large one. I was out on piazza
when Dr. called, and he found me so comfortable that he did nothing &
went right back to Miss S. who was released from all suffering at 2 p.m.
The wave of sadness has again come to our little town. The children [sic]
colds quite severe.
Friday 15. [Included in above]
Sat. Sept. 16, 1899
Quite a cold rain a.m. Lizzie did not go to Cripple Creek as she had planned,
because of bad day, but had to go to her recitations, which come this year,
just the same on Saturdays as on other days. Helen & Edith went to Eleanor
Anderson's birthday party, and had a very happy time. I do not forget that
my darling baby M. would be 18 mos. old to-day, if she had stayed with us!
Dr. H. called for a few minutes.
Sunday 17.
Miss Maynard called before breakfast to say how ill poor Husm was during
the night. I took a telegram & sent it to Mother Caleb before breakfast,
as Alice did not want to leave her brother. W.sr. and I spend most of our
a.m. at Alice's; we could not do anything only to let her feel we were in
[readiness?] Dr. Hart found him much more comfortable in p.m. and the immediate
alarm over. Dr. Slocum took lunch with us.
Mon. Sept. 18, 1899
No quite so busy a day as a week ago when I had so much clutter about, and
also so much mending to do for the wash; but I have just succeeded in getting
out of sight the last of the unpacking, tho' I am far from being settled
for the winter. I went to dear Miss Stearn's funeral services, so simply
and well conducted by Mr. Fish. I went to see Alice afterwards who was much
calmer than yesterday - poor Husm comfortable but very weak.
Tuesday 19.
Dear Papa's birthday; as it was Lizzie's late a.m. at College. I read to
W.sr., right after breakfast and then went down town with him on errands,
going to see Alice, & also Miss Dorsey and Miss Henry about the children's
school work that will begin next week. I rested in p.m. till it was almost
time to go to C.A. meeting at Miss Stuart's. Mrs. Ordway called just before.
Children's colds better. I began letter to Grandma but did not finish it.
Wed. Sept. 20, 1899
A mean "crick" in my back, and other ways not very spunky, so
I was glad to stay quietly at home all day. The boys played a little too
much with water in a.m. so had to take a rest at noon. Helen read very sweetly
to me as I sewed for a while. Mrs. Lancaster's funeral this p.m., but W.
& I were unable to attend it, so I was glad Lizzie could go. I stayed
with children part of the time L. went with G. & little girls to the
barber's later. All much improved.
Thursday 21.
W.sr. had to go off on early train, so little Gardner & I were the only
ones to take breakfast with him before 7 o'cl'k - the rest not awake &
ready before regular time at 7:45. I stayed on piazza til 10 a.m. &
then worked over clean clothes till Mabel L. made a pleasant call. I finished
letter to Mamma, and was delighted to see W.sr. back for lunch. W.jr. very
good about doing my errands.
Fri. Sept. 22, 1899
Still warm & lovely, so that the children are out from morning till
night; I sat on piazza with them till nearly noon. I was too lacking in
energy to accomplish much, & yet could not get a nap as I wanted. Lizzie
cleaned her rooms, as she is going home to-morrow. All the dear children
getting quite calmed down now, and all are better, nearly well from their
colds. I was much pleased that the children took their disappointment of
not going to Lizzie's home, so well.
Saturday 23.
W.sr. and Everett took their breakfast together, the latter sleeping till
nearly 9 o'cl'k. Lizzie left us soon after breakfast. I helped Sallie in
playroom some, & then took four of the children down town on errands.
On return home, I found that my poor old tipped organ was giving me trouble,
so as soon as possible, I shall want Dr. Hart to insert another tampon.
A welcome letter from Anne. Poor Mrs. Sanford died suddenly a week ago.
Dr. Hart came in evening after hot baths & supper were over, hence I
had a good night.
Sun. Sept. 24, 1899
Very thankful to feel so well & comfortable & like taking five children
to our own church again. Rev. Wm. Patchell of Pueblo preached, on our being
created in God's image. W.sr. joined us after services and we all walked
together to Miss Maynard's but "Cousin' Alice" was not there.
"Papa" & Sallie took the children to Ca?on in p.m., so I rested
and wrote letters. Lizzie returned in late p.m. I read aloud a little while.
Monday 25.
Will B. spent the night with us, tho' most of us did not know it till morning!
He took lunch as well as breakfast. Five of the children started again in
school, little Edith very happy to go off with the others. Lizzie bro't
her home at noon. W.jr. glad of "Goat poem" from Aunt Edith. Yesterday
both he and I had good letters from her. I mended for children & the
wash much of the day. Poor Husm very low indeed.
Tues. Sept. 26, 1899
It is beautiful weather, it really seems a shame to be in the house these
days. I did make dear Alice a long visiting, sitting out on lawn with her.
Mabel L. and Mrs. Gregg both stopped to pay a visit while I was there. Husm
more comfortable again, and Alice hopeful. Little Edith very happy at her
new play & work, and is very good about resting on her return home;
I hope the four big ones are [taking?] hold well.
Wednesday 27.
A very hard day for me to get started in the duties that press on every
side. W.sr. went to Alice in a.m. I did get out at noon to call for little
Edith. George Gilman here to finish up the windows all over the house -seeing
them clean does one good. I was too dull all the p.m. to help Lizzie much
with the children while Sallie was out. I did unpack freight box, c'est
tout.
Thur. Sept. 28, 1899
The wind storm of last night seem [sic] to put a better quality in the air,
and I felt much more like working than yesterday. After starting the children
for the day, I worked at mending & clean clothes; W.sr. again went to
see Alice and found Husm really sitting up a little; it seems almost incredible.
I got off a letter to Hong Kong & to Caroline H. in p.m. I hope R's
messages will soon come.
Friday 29.
I do feel so thankful that the "May Flint" is safely in China;
for Mamma has been so anxious these long weeks of delay. I made Alice a
short visit in p.m., and found her almost too bouyant over Husm's improved
condition, for we know only too well, that it cannot last very long. Mrs.
Barney came to do my hair, giving it a good "shampoo" this time.
Sat. Sept. 30, 1899
Lizzie had a little "bite' by herself early, so as to go on her Geological
Expedition up to Lodge Moraine; I got down just in time to see her start.
Sallie & I got along very comfortable with the dear children; Helen
& Edith went over to Anne's; and Roland went to Eleanor Washburn's for
the day, so that made the a.m. very peaceful! I had to go to Dr. Hart's
in p.m., met Alice there, & so did not go to Miss Maynard's but called
on Mrs. Stevens and Mrs. Washburn instead.
Sun. Oct. 1
Another beautiful Sunday. We all went about 10 a.m. to see Alice who still
hoped she could take the family drive with us. The dear five school children
went to church with me, and little Edith rested on her return till lunch
time. When we all drove to Miss Maynard's in p.m., poor Husm was worse and
Alice left word that she could not go with us, so I picked up Priscilla
and we all drove to Manitou. I called on brave little Mrs. [Moss?]
Mon. Oct. 2, 1899
The children bright and well for school - dear Everett, our latest sleeper
is greatly helped by his wheel! As soon as the household was started for
the day, I went up to see Alice who keeps up well under her deep, deep trouble;
Husm about the same, except that he must be growing steadily weaker. Dear
W.sr. none the worse for his narrow escape last night, when thrown down
by a bicyclist - of course he is a little lame. Busy all p.m. over clothes,
both soiled and clean! Lizzie helped with lessons.
Tuesday 3.
Quite a wintry a.m. Sallie helped me with the getting the [gloves?] into
the fall jackets etc.; all the five school children were glad to have their
fingers covered. Little Gardner played happily over his pictures till Sallie
was ready for him. After reading paper etc. to W.sr., I went up to see sad,
lonely Alice again, who seems very glad to see me each day. I got at my
bills in the p.m., making out checks for summer & Sept. Will came in
about 8 o'cl'k.
Wed. Oct. 4, 1899
Will was up with us for breakfast, as he went to see Alice. I did not go
to-day at all. A very dull feeling day, tho' there seems absolutely no reason
for me to be so inactive. I long for my old activity; it did come back during
the summer, and I trust this spell of discouragement may not last much longer.
Poor little Everett distressed about his wheel which was not returned after
lending it to a Colored boy!
Thursday 5.
Will slept up at Miss Maynard's as Dr. Hart had to be out of town overnight;
Husm told his sister this a.m. that he was very very tired, too tired to
talk, and Will had not been gone but a few hours before his Cousin H was
released from his suffering. The word came to us at lunch; so W. & I
went right to her afterward but did not stay long, as there was nothing
for us to do. She came to us for the night. I wrote several letters for
her. Everett & Wm went on a hunt for the lost wheel & found it.
Fri. Oct. 6, 1899
A warm bright day, but such a sad one! Will came in during the night and
took a late breakfast with his Uncle Will this morning, and then went up
to be with Alice, to help in her last hard day here. Little Gardner and
I took the car to Las Animas street & got her washing for her; and in
p.m. we went to take a last look at handsome Husm; before his body should
be taken East. Alice & Will came here to dinner and then W. saw Alice
start on her long, lonely journey.
Saturday 7.
W. & I felt rather forlorn. I took a late breakfast with W., so did
not help as I expected to, Sallie's busy morning. It was hard to get at
anything till after lunch when work came easier and of which, there is always
plenty. W. jr., Helen, and Everett went to a [cabinet?] party at Minerva
Giles, so they did not have their hot baths as usual. Very glad of a good
long letter from Aunt Edith, who is still in Boston. I wish they would not
go to Wolfboro at all.
Sun. Oct. 8, 1899
A beautiful fall day, but not so bright to me because the burdens of life
seemed heavier than they should! I took five children, little Edith being
just as good as could be, to the Methodist church to hear Dr. Lancaster
preach on "Lay not up for yourselves treasures on Earth," and
his sermon helped me. I read to the dear bright children before & after
lunch. The latter part of the p.m. "Papa" and Sallie took all
six out for a little outing. And I longed inexpressibly for my baby daughter
while resting.
Monday 9.
Very forlorn and did not take breakfast till W.sr. did, about 10 o'clock.
I was glad to do a little work at clothes and sewing before lunch. Just
too stupid to do much of anything in p.m., beside a little reading etc.
It seemed too bad that I was not even spunky enough to get off a good home
letter. What shall I do if this lasts all winter?
Tues. Oct 10. 1899
I was not quite so lazy as yesterday morning, for I did manage to gather
the rest of the soiled clothes for Louise before breakfast, but no mater
how hard I try to get into affairs again, everything seems lifeless, and
as it did last winter for so many, many weeks. Oh, may the cloud lift sooner
this time, or my poor family will see poor "Mamma"[distrait?]
Wednesday 11.
Mrs. Barney came just as I was finishing reading the paper to W.; as it
was only a brushing it did not take very long. I pressed our clothes before
lunch, and afterwards Oh! Dear such a forlorn afternoon. The spell seems
to be growing worse instead of better, and what should have bro't it on
I cannot see; of course I am hoping the physical cause may yet be removed
& give me the longed for relief.
Thur. Oct 12, 1899
After starting pretty well, about noon, all interest fled and while in 3rd
floor I stayed and could not make up my mind to go to lunch, and on returning
to my room stayed there all p.m., not going to dinner either, which was
all wrong, not any excuse, even if I did not want to eat, & see faces
or talk. Oh! My poor W. & children!
Friday 13.
[Blank]
Sat. Oct. 14, 1899
I was out on piazza with children till nearly eleven o'clock, while out
Dr. H. called for a moment or two. I had Helen's and Roland's lessons while
out-of-doors. After lunch the listlessness came on and tho' I tried to conquer
it, I did not succeed, and poor Sallie and Lizzie had to put the baths thro'
without me. W. sr. very patient and kind with me & my failings.
Sunday 15.
Too tired to stir, so stayed in bed till lunch time, so the poor children
were neglected and did not go to church. Will turned up at for lunch [sic],
having been to our church for services. His visit made our afternoon pleasant.
Dr. H. called in a.m. and tried to encourage me, that my discouragement
would soon pass away. Will it?
Mon. Oct. 16, 1899
Little Margaret would be 19 mos. Old to-day and I have missed her more than
words can tell during these fall days. I was glad to be up & stirring
and trying to do things even if not accomplishing very much. A welcome line
from Aunt Margaret about Alice's safe journey home. Mrs. Luckcraft and Isable
[sic] called to ask the children to the [Cutter's?] party on Saturday. Such
good times look so hard to me, - & yet the children ought to have them.
Tuesday 17,
Quite cool again, and what wouldn't I give, if I were all ready for winter!
After talking over affairs with W.sr. after lunch, he said I would better
write to Miss Miller and to Aunt Hannah about Rose's coming out, & when
I feel like myself I feel as if both plans would be good; but when not,
it seems as if both would be a failures [sic]. I wish I could stop thinking.