The Year of Our Lord 1882, being the fourth year of my diary.
Sunday January 1
The boy, Charles Halfacre, having sprained his ankle yesterday, he was unable to use his foot today so we left him in the charge of Mr Yarnley, and Bertha, George and I and the servant went by cart to Wokingham. We were too late for service. It was a very wet afternoon so I didn’t go for my accustomed walk. Bertha and I went to Chapel and stayed to Lord’s Supper. Only George and I came home, Bertha staying at the Office so as to be ready to go to the party at the shop tomorrow. We had a nice moonlight ride home.
Monday January 2
Having done the booking, I walked to the College and took the 1.45 train to Wokingham. Went to the shop to dinner where there was a small party of us. In the evening, we went to the concert in the Hall. I enjoyed it very much.
Tuesday January 3
I intended coming home by the 7.35 train, but overslept myself and was only just in time for the 8.36. Got there just as Barker and Halfacre’s man were setting in, so I took the pace and was kept employed for half an hour. However, I kept pace with them. Bertha, Frances, Eva and the servant came home by carrier.
Wednesday January 4
Went to see Radford about some hay he had promised me, but not being satisfied with his answer, I determined to go to see Mr Simmonds about him. So, after dinner, I went to Rowell’s and bought half a ton and then off to Scott’s Farm and saw Mr Simmonds. Came home at 8.30.
14 miles
Thursday January 5
George went to Reading to Annie’s party. Goods came over and altogether I had a busy day.
Friday January 6
Had a pig from Mr Howser.
Saturday January 8
Lady Glass called in and paid. Was tolerably busy all day.
Sunday January 8
Bertha, George, Eva and Frances and the servant by cart to Wokingham. The boy Halfacre’s leg still too bad for him to get about, he had to stay at home by himself. I went on the velocipede. We were too late for service and the day coming on wet, we had a poor time of it that day. However, it cleared up for the evening, then all rode home leaving my omnicycle at the shop.
5 miles
Monday January 9
We were very late with the bread in consequence of the yeast not working well. Mr Ryder called and paid £10.15.3.
Tuesday January 10
I went to Wokingham by carrier. Called in at the Works and while I was there saw John and James going over to Eversley with the shop trap. Did a little business at Wokingham and then home on the omnicycle which I had left at the warehouse on Sunday. Had a talk with John. He left here about 3 o’clock.
Frances’ birthday. We had no party but the children seemed to enjoy themselves very well.
6 miles
Wednesday January 11
Hearing of a pony for sale at Yateley, George went with the baker on his round and they both drove in to Yateley and saw the animal and were very pleased with it.
Thursday January 12
After dinner George and I went to see the pony but it did not suit me, being the wrong colour. I called at Pigg’s and settled my account. Before dinner, I gave Horne and Welch a look up. There was a pigeon match at the Chequers.
Friday January 13.
Collected the sacks together.
Sunday January 15
Up and off a bit earlier. Bertha, Eva, Frances, George and Mary by cart to Wokingham and I by the velocipede to Chapel and heard a very good sermon. Went for a walk with Tom in the afternoon. George, not turning up by half past 5, and it now bring too dark already, I drove off without him.
Monday January 16
George walked over.
Tuesday January 17
Had a letter from Mr Eaton. Bertha went to Wokingham and back by carrier. I walked to the College and took the 4.45 train to Wokingham. Saw Mr Lawes who informed me the float was down 3/-. Went to the Blackbirds in the Hall, which was a very good entertainment. Slept at the Post Office.
Wednesday January 18
Came home on the omnicycle which I had left at Wokingham on Sunday. Called upon Mr Thick and Harris about their accounts and then round to Radford’s.
Thursday January 19
Went to Wokingham and back at 7 o’clock to see Mr Sale about his money difficulty.
Sunday January 22
While the rest went on the cart, I went on the omnicycle to Wokingham. The rest came home early while I stayed later to speak to Mr Sale about his money affairs.
Tuesday January 24
I went in the evening to Wokingham to see Mr Sale further about his affairs but when I got there, he was out for the night at Reading, so I came back without seeing him.
11 miles
Wednesday January 25
Went in to Wokingham directly after breakfast and arranged with Mr Sale and then came home. Mr and Mrs Eaton came over to stay a day or two. Mr Geo Sale drove them over.
11 miles
Thursday January 26
Directly after dinner, I left for Wokingham to have a few hours in Tom’s shop fitting up my trial tricycle. I kept on at it until past 9 o’clock and then came home tired.
11 miles
Friday January 27
At spare time and in the evening, I was at work on the machine.
Saturday January 28
Took a few pieces of iron for Tom to work up ready for Monday.
Sunday January 29
Mr Eaton and Mrs went to Finchampstead to Chapel. I took Frances and Eva for a walk. Rain came in during dinner and lasted an hour or so. I went to Wokingham after to get a few pieces of iron.
11 miles
Monday January 30
Worked at the tricycle.
Tuesday January 31
Got the tricycle together by the evening but too late to try it.
1882
Wednesday February 1
Tried the tricycle but didn’t find it answered as well as I wished. Henry came over in the afternoon.
Thursday February 2
I went to Wokingham to show Tom the new machine. Had dinner at Mrs Rainbow’s and then came home.
11 miles
Friday February 3
Borrowed Mr Thick’s wheels and sent Bertha, Eva, Frances and Mr and Mrs Eaton out for a ride to Bramshill House and the Monument. Hearing that Mr Alerver’s had failed, I posted over there on the omni at half past 7 and found the rumour false. I obtained a promise from him of money within the week.
14 miles
Saturday February 4
It was very busy all day and especially in the evening. Mr and Mrs Eaton went home by Mr George Sale’s conveyance.
Sunday February 5
All of us to Wokingham and I on the velocipede. Tom, I, Eva and Frances for a walk in afternoon round Bill Hill and Warren House.
11 miles
Wednesday February 8
Bertha, Eva, Frances and Annie to Reading and home by train, George meeting them from the College with the horse and cart. I set the shop out and put the place a bit straight.
Thursday February 9
I went to Wokingham in the afternoon. Had tea at the shop. Henry and Mr Geo Woods went to Silchester and back.
11 miles
Friday February 10
Had the goods in.
Saturday February 11
Was tolerably busy as was also all the week.
Sunday February 12
A beautifully fine day. We have had a lovely lot of fine weather. We all went to Wokingham with exception of the boy. In the afternoon I took a run round Hurst had a few moments in the church grounds. Overtook George and Mary Woods coming in to the town and they asked me to them and I went.
17 miles
Monday February 13
Did the booking and got ready for a journey to London on the morrow.
Tuesday February 14
We had rain in the early morning and when I got up at 7 o’clock, I feared it would be a wet day. However, I made up my mind to go to London and so at 8 o’clock, I left on the omni for the College and put the machine up at the hotel and took the 8.32 to Cannon Street. I had a beautiful 2nd Class carriage lighted with gas. The day turned out beautifully fine and mild. Getting out at Cannon Street, I wandered on to Watling Street to see Towgey Bros shop.
From there to Holborn Viaduct and thence to Farringdon Market where I came across John, quite accidentally, he having come up for the same purpose as me to see the bicycle and tricycle show at the Agricultural Hall. So we had dinner, and then off there. We had no sooner got in than we came across Jamie Knight. We immediately made for the omnicycle where we heard Mr Thomas Butler’s lecture upon its advantages. There was a very large much varied show of tricycles but none caused so much attention as the omnicycle.
I did not like the back action of the machine and seeing the engineer of the Small Arms Company, I told them so, and he wished to know what to do. I left the Hall about 5 o’clock and had tea with Tom at a place near the Hall. Jamie had left earlier to catch a train to Wokingham. Leaving Tom, I walked on to Holborn Viaduct and bought a few things at Bucks. Came home by the last train.
8 miles
Wednesday February 15
Bertha and George went by cart to Wokingham about 12 o’clock to fetch goods back. I made a small piece of chain to bend both ways as a specimen of the kind wanted for the omni.
Thursday February 16
Thinking that the chain I made yesterday would do well for the omnicycle, I determined to go up to see Tom about it. So, I took the same train as on Tuesday, but this time got out at London Bridge and then took a bus from King William Street to the Hall, but when I got there, Tom was gone to Wokingham and would not be back before 5 o’clock, so I made my way round to 14 Great Cramer Street where he was staying to see if he had come up earlier than was expected, but he had not. I had dinner there and then Master Malden showed me the way to Waterloo where I met Tom and gave him the piece of chain which very much pleased him. I urged him strongly to use it instead of the cog wheels. Having done so, I came home by the 4.30 SER.
8 miles
Sunday February 19
Bertha, George, Frances and I went to Wokingham by cart. To Chapel in the morning. It was a splendidly fine day and I was sorry I had not my machine at Wokingham for an afternoon ride. Came home about 5 o’clock.
Monday February 20
Bertha, Frances, Eva and Mary to Wokingham via Well Coll at 10.15. Came home to tea.
Tuesday February 21
Bertha went in to Wokingham to see about Ada and stayed all night.
Wednesday February 22
I drove to Wokingham for goods and to bring Bertha home. Henry, Geo Woods and Will Rainbow had a run to Henley and back. Roads in excellent order. We brought Ada home with us.
Thursday February 23
Had a run to Hartley Row in the afternoon. Beautiful weather.
Friday February 24
Called upon Radford and Slyfield about their accounts.
4 miles
Saturday February 25
Having got the orders ready last night so as to go to Reading about a pony, I left here in the wet at 11 o’clock. I went to Tompkin’s sale but saw nothing suitable. Came home by 5 o’clock.
Sunday February 25
Bertha, George and I to Wokingham by cart. Usual walk in the afternoon. Saw Mr Kent and arranged with him.
Tuesday February 28
I laid zinc all round the granary to keep out the rats.
1882
Wednesday March 1
Finished the granary. After dinner, George and I drove to Sandhurst and from there to Wokingham for goods. I came home by train and had the new curate for company, he having been in to see if Tom had a machine to let out on hire.
Thursday March 2
Bertha took Frances to Reading to have another sitting at Whites. I went in to see Tom this morning about the new chain.
11 miles
Saturday March 4
Sent George to Reading to see if he could see anything likely in the horse line. He did not come back here. Had a good clearance of stocks. Mr Sale drove over and took Bertha and Frances.
Sunday March 5
I went in on the omnicycle. Had a good discourse from Mr Woodrow. Went for a walk in the afternoon. It came on to rain in the evening, so Berth and Frances stayed. George came back by train. Had tea at Rainbow’s.
11 miles
Monday March 6
Went to Sandhurst after tea. Bertha came back about 5 o’clock.
Tuesday March 7
I sent George to Reading to see about a horse which we had heard of, but was no go. He came back by the last train, Mr Kent coming with him.
Wednesday March 8
I went to Wokingham with the horse and cart for a load of goods. Sent the change to Wixenford.
Thursday March 9
Had the sitting room and drawing room chimneys swept. I went the Farley Hill journey.
Friday March 10
Tom came over in the afternoon and we had a settling up of our accounts, he paying me £27.2.0 being the balance between him and me.
Saturday March 11
Hearing that Mr Haynes’ horse was for sale, I went in to see it. I took a run to the Flats in the afternoon.
6 miles
Sunday March 12
The morning was somewhat foggy which foretold a warm day, and so it turned out. It was one of those beautifully clear, calm and bright days which we so rarely get. I should have taken a morning ride only Mr Scorey was to preach at Wokingham so of course I had to hear him. Bertha, George and Frances went by cart and I on the omnicycle.
Mr Scorey preached from John 1 16v. ‘And from his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace’. I have seldom heard him, so little to my liking. After Chapel I saw Tom who had been to Birmingham yesterday and settled about the chain. Salamon has 67 ordered. I arranged with Henry to go to Burchett’s Green so I had dinner at the shop so as to be early. We left at 2 o’clock taking the Reading road nearly to the Pheasant thence to the the right to Davis Street and to the left at the foot of Hurst Church hill, going straight on to Twyford. This is a splendidly level run not a single hill in it after the Reading road is passed. Called at Jenkins where we saw Mr and Mrs Smith, Mrs Jenkins being ill in her bed. We did not stay long, but passed on to Burchett’s Green and had a few moments with Aunt, when Mr Micklem arrived from his service and then we had tea which I much enjoyed. Mr Taylor dropped in after tea and then we left and came home via Ruscombe and Twyford. We made another call at Jenkins and then came home the same road as we came excepting the course round the station and up Denmark Street so as to avoid the people going to service, for it was just after half past 6. This was a most magnificent ride, the roads good, no wind and most cheerful weather. Just as I was leaving for home, I met George Woods coming in from a ride and he asked me in so I went for half an hour or so, and had a cup of cocoa. I enjoyed my ride home very much.
Monday March 13
After dinner, I went to Wokingham and got Hill to put a new spoke to the brake of my machine. Called upon Mr Watts but could not see him, he being out. Henry went to London. What a beautiful day we have had.
11 miles
Tuesday March 14
Bertha and Frances went to Wokingham via the College. Last night, Mr Halfacre’s home was broken into.
As Mr Shepherd was driving round Twyford, his horse bolted and he was thrown out and killed.
Wednesday March 15
Henry called in here about half past 9 this morning on his way to Wokingham to see after pigs. I accompanied him to the farm and back. I then went to East Court to see Mr Lyons but he had not arrived, so of course I did not see him. I went on to jog up Mr White about his account.
Thursday March 16
I called upon Mr Lyons at half past 9 this morning to put our business claim to him. From there, I went to Wokingham and thence by train to Reading and went to the County Court just to see how cases were disposed of. Had dinner at the Abbey Retreat. Ordered a suit of cloth off Moule £3.0.0 and a pair of knickerbockers 18/-. Had tea at the office. Came home at 7 o’clock.
11 miles
Friday March 17
Just after dinner, Henry came over, bringing James Knight with him, on his way to Sherfield to see Mr John Tull, who had written about some hogs. Being a capital day for a run and having put up all the orders, I mounted my omnicycle and accompanied them. We had a splendid run to the Monument and thence to Sherfield where we branched off leaving James Knight in charge of our machines while we walked, the lane being too bad for riding. The lane was much longer than I expected and much more so than Henry relished on foot. Bought his pigs. Saw John Butler’s son there who asked us up to see his father. So we declined tea at Mr Tull’s, fully expecting to get one at Butler’s. When we got to Sherfield Court, J B was not come in so his son, very hospitably, sat us down to a sober meal of milk and bread. I did not eat mine knowing very well that as soon as J B came in, he would get tea for us, and so he did, bless him. After tea, we looked at his pigs and arranged to take them. And now a glorious ride home we had and how we enjoyed it.
16 miles
Sunday March 19
George, Bertha and Frances to Wokingham by cart and I by omnicycle. Went to Chapel in the morning, and for a walk with Tom in the afternoon, and to his place for tea, then to George Woods’ to see the price of his old machine to the curate at Eversley. He did not give me a figure, but he came to another arrangement, and that was to give me his omni and £13 for my machine and to settle James’ keep, so I agreed to that.
11 miles
Monday March 20
As soon as I had done the booking, I set to put the omnicycle in perfect condition for Geo Woods. Mr Ryder called in and paid and came to supper.
Tuesday March 21
I rode the 60 inch Om into Wokingham, as I thought, for the last time, but when I saw George Woods he was not in a hurry for it and he wanted a thing or two done to it, so I brought it back. He paid me for it, and gave me £1, namely £14.0.0, and his machine. Had dinner at Woods’. Called at the office. Had my hair cut and somehow or another, pottered the whole of the day away, so that it was 6 o’clock before I got home again.
19 miles
Wednesday March 22
Finished the few repairs to the omnicycle. Mr Pigg called in after dinner and bought maize off him at 32/6. He had met with an accident with his horse and cart and had to walk home. I offered to drive him, which offer he thankfully accepted. George wanted to go to Wokingham, so I sent him in for change for Wixenford and to bring back Geo Woods’ old omnicycle.
Thursday March 23
Sent the pony and cart in for goods by George. Bertha went with him. After tea, I took in Geo Woods’ 60 inch omnicycle in perfect condition. He was very pleased with it. I came home via the College and from there in 45 minutes.
Friday March 24
George went in to Wokingham for the Volunteer drill tonight. At 8 o’clock I went in on Woods’ old omnicycle to see Tom about a Matchless bicycle.
11 miles
Saturday March 25
George came back in the afternoon. Ada went to Reading.
Sunday March 26
All in by cart to Wokingham in a very high wind. For a walk in the afternoon. Bertha and I went to Woods’ for tea and found Tom there. As there was only George and me to come home, we stayed to evening service where there was baptising.
Monday March 27
About 4 o’clock, I went to Wokingham. Had tea at the office. Went down to see Tom at the Works after I had given some cheques in for the bank at the shop.
Just as I got to Tom’s, Mr Hebblethwaite took Tom up into town again for more than an hour. I waited at the Works until Tom came back and then I ordered a Matchless off him.
11 miles
Tuesday March 28
I left here about 7 o’clock, put the omnicycle up at Tom’s and then took the train to Reading. Met Donaldson at the station and off to Donnington Road where I found Bertha who had come down this afternoon, so that we might sleep at Reading and catch the GWR to Paddington in the morning. Mr Kent arrived just as Bertha and I went to bed.
5 miles
Wednesday March 29
Was up by times. Had a good breakfast, and then togged up in my new clothes which had arrived from Moule and Son Tuesday, last night. I went on before the rest to get something from Mr Barkshire.
Had a shave and then to the GWR station, where I joined Bertha, Ada and Kent. Took the 9.25 to Paddington and arrived there punctually at 10.15. I then conveyed the company to Ranelagh Road, No 11, Mr Miller’s. Here we had a short stop and then off to Church where Kent received Ada according to law.
Came back and had a quiet dinner and then at quarter to 2, I left to meet Tom at Holborn Viaduct. Now Bertha was to go home with Annie and Ada and Kent to Reading, while I was to go to Wokingham via GWR.
Arriving at Salamon’s, I found Tom inspecting the omnicycle from Birmingham, It was vastly too heavy and so thought Salamon. I saw my Matchless ready packed.
Tom and I went down to Buck’s and he bought some carpenter tools, about £3.0.0 worth. Tom, having to meet the engineers from the S.A.Co, tomorrow, stayed in London. I came down by the 7.4 to Wokingham. Home to Eversley on the omnicycle.
6 miles
Thursday March 30
Left here on the omnicycle so as to catch the 3.37 train to Reading. As I was walking through the Market Place, I saw Henry who told me the Matchless had arrived at Reading. Stopped at Fearns and bought a pair of Oxonians, then round to Moules and paid for my clothes, and then to the station and caught the 4.50 GWR. I bought a pin of silver at Silver’s in King Street, price 2/4. When I was in the train, I remembered I had left my boots at Fearn’s, so when I got to the office, I sent Eva to Reading for them and she brought them back by the 7 SER.
After tea at the office, I went to the shop where I saw the Matchless, Henry having unpacked and cleaned it. I asked him to ride it over which he readily did, he on mine and James Knight on Henry’s. I came home on the omnicycle and met Henry walking back so I asked him to lend me his 50 inch Timberlake for a week or so just to get used to riding.
He promised to bring it over tomorrow. I now sent George over to meet Bertha and co with the cart to the College. So we were all at home again tonight.
11 miles
Friday March 31
Having brought over the Timberlake, I just took a run to the Flats and back. George went to Wokingham on the omnicycle. Sold George Woods’ omnicycle for £8.10.0.
1882
Saturday April 1
Got up early and knocked off all the orders by half past 10. Then took a run to Wokingham on the bicycle. Called at the shop, Woods’ and Tom’s. Home to dinner.
11 miles – Bicycle 50ʺ
Sunday April 2
We were up a bit earlier but George would not turn out so Bertha drove in without him and got on very well. I went in on the 50ʺ bicycle. To Chapel in the morning and to Lord’s Supper. After dinner, across to the shop, and with Henry to Twyford and to Jenkins to tea. While at tea, I saw Hebblethwaite go by on an omnicycle. Mr Jenkins has taken the business lately carried on by Philip Davis. Wanting to get home by half past 6, I left Henry and came home. We did not go to service but I got the horse and started them home at once. George stayed here all day with Charles Halfacre.
22 miles – 50ʺ bicycle
Monday April 3
I put the step of my Matchless up considerably higher, and after tea I togged myself out in knickerbockers and white hat and gloves, and on my Matchless to Wokingham via the Cross.
Arranged with Mr S Sale about New Mill tea meeting. Got £50 for Wixenford and paid Tom for the bicycle and lamps £16.14.9. Had a beautiful run home, the machine going superbly. Tom came part of the way on an omnicycle.
12 miles – Matchless
Tuesday April 4
Up and off to Downham’s for straw by 8 o’clock then round Bramshill Park and home. Very nice. George went with Barker the Farley Hill journey and by Hollis to Wokingham. I, expecting him home, got ready to go to Wokingham, but his not putting in an appearance by 3 o’clock, and Bertha not coming back by carrier, I was faint to put it off til she came by train from College. The servant and Frances went to meet her. I left Ada in charge while I went on the Matchless, intending, if I came across Bertha, to go on to Wokingham, but not doing so, I went on to the College and told Mary and Frances to come home as Bertha had not come by her train.
6 miles – 50ʺ; 6 miles – Matchless
Wednesday April 5
Up and had breakfast by 7 o’clock, and for a wonder, I got George up also. So, he on the 50ʺ and I on the Matchless went for a nice little spin. We left home at exactly 7 o’clock and proceeded to the Flats and Hawley. We came along at a very quick pace and only had one dismount and that was down a rough hill. We pushed along as quickly as possible along through Darby Green and Yateley as we had trespassed beyond our time. As it was, we did not get home until nearly half past 8. I sent George in to Wokingham for a load of goods. He did not get back until past 4 o’clock.
At half past 3, I left here for Wokingham and called upon Henry to go for a ride. We had tea and then started off at 5 o’clock by pushing our bicycles down Peach Street as they were in such a mess from having been watered. We rode on to Bracknell and then to the left to Warfield and Winkfield and to the right to Ascot, and then home via the London road. We had a rest and a cigarette at Ascot, otherwise we did not stop about at all. When we reached Wokingham, it was getting somewhat dark, and so I at once went on to Eversley while the light held out. It was a very good run and I enjoyed it well.
45 miles
Thursday April 6
Bertha went round to New Mill to see about arranging the tea meeting for tomorrow. I went into Wokingham to see George Sale about the boiler, and Mr Pigg about the butter. Came home to dinner. After dinner, to Sandhurst and a load of straw off Mr Pigg. Before breakfast, I went round Bramshill Park.
25 miles
Friday April 7 – Good Friday
Got up about 7 o’clock and had an early breakfast. Got the things ready for New Mill, and after doing a few other things I left on my bicycle for Wokingham, leaving Bertha, Ada, George and the boy at home. Saw Tom and Henry, but neither of them going for a run, I went by myself to Burchett’s Green. The wind was very strong against me, blowing hard from the East. However, I enjoyed the run as the weather was so gloriously fine and the roads good. Got to Burchett’s Green at half past 12, having been about one and quarter hours from Wokingham. I had a very pleasant time over there and enjoyed myself much. There was at home Mr and Mrs, Henry, Austen, Frank, Alice and Mrs Marley. I left Burchett’s Green at 2 o’clock and had a fast run home, reaching the third mile in 10 minutes and the crossroads at Twyford in 17 minutes and the Market Place in 50 minutes. Called at the shop for Henry and then we two came over here and I changed my clothes and went to New Mill tea meeting. We had a very sizeable meeting which made it necessary to have two lots of tea. The meeting in the evening was crammed and of the ordinary character. Tom and Henry came over here, and then off home.
30 miles
Saturday April 8
Was a somewhat busy day, more so especially in the evening. Going in the granary at night without a light, I knocked my eye against a piece of wood rather harder than I wanted to.
Sunday April 9
Got up very bad indeed with a nasty cold upon me. Bertha and Frances drove to Wokingham but did not go to service, Frances being too poorly for that. I went in on the Matchless via the Wellington College, Easthampstead and the Shoulder of Mutton. It was a beautiful day but I couldn’t enjoy it. Had dinner at the office. I came home via Col. Peel’s and Well Coll. George, Barker and Charles were busy this evening baking bread for tomorrow.
20 miles.
Monday April 10
I got up still worse this morning. About half past 10, I started for a run hoping it would do me good. Calling at Wixenford and leaving £50, I passed on to the Monument and one sure splendid road to Basingstoke. Walked the machine through the town and came home via Hook and Hartley Row. I was too ill to enjoy the run. Directly after dinner, I went to bed. Mr and Mrs, James and Eva Sale came over and brought half a calf’s head. George went into Wokingham for the Volunteer Review and took the 50ʺ bicycle in.
25 miles
Tuesday April 11
I was laid up all day with my cold. Frances also was very bad with hers. George got home in good time this morning.
Wednesday April 12
Again indoors all day with this horrible cold. However, I did a considerable amount of booking and so all the time was not lost. George and Charles walked into Wokingham and back to hear the Blackbirds at the Drill Hall.
Saturday April 15
I have been bad all the week with a nasty cold. I took a walk with Frances round New Mill, else I haven’t been out since Monday. I sent George to Wokingham for some goods.
Sunday April 16
I got up feeling very queer indeed, but it being a very nice day, I could not resist a ride, so after Bertha, George and Frances had left in the cart, I mounted the bicycle and took the road to Broadmoor and thence to Col. Peel’s down the nice road and by Lock’s Farm where I was attacked by a large dog.
Fortunately, I got by him after a time, and I put steam on and soon made a considerable space between us. Crossing the London road, I went by Carrington’s old farm and the Warren House on to the Reading road and so home to the office. We left soon after tea and when I got home, I was so bad I had to get to bed. We slept in the large bedroom and had a fire. I was too much out of sorts to go across to see Tom.
32 miles
Monday April 17
Was too ill to get up, so had to keep to my bed.
About 6 o’clock there was an accident up the street – a pony chaise put into the ditch and broke the trap. George went up to see it, and the party turned out to be Miss Lovejoy and two friends. The evening was very wet and they knew not how to get home and were in a sad state of mind which so moved George, that he brought them here and Bertha got them tea and Barker to drive them in our cart to Well Coll in time for the 7 o’clock train to Reading. For this they were truly grateful and greatly relieved.
Tuesday April 18
Two such nice books and letter accompanying them arrived by post, one for Bertha and one for George from Mr Lovejoy as a remembrance of their kindness to his daughter and her friends.
Saturday April 22
I have been laid up all the week. I took a walk yesterday, both morning and afternoon and I did a little in the shop this evening. The weather during the week has been showery so that the roads will be greatly improved I hope.
Sunday April 23
Was showery during the morning so we all stayed at home. In the afternoon, as the weather cleared up a bit, we put the horse in and Bertha, George and I went into Wokingham. Having to get some change I went over to the shop to see Henry about it, but he had left one hour before for Eversley on foot taking the change with him. Soon after tea, we came home and met Henry near Mr Kemp’s, walking home with Mr Farmer who had been to preach at Finchampstead. As soon as we got home, rain set in again. Mrs Saddler sent me a handkerchief and a letter, being my birthday.
Monday April 24
Took the change to Wixenford. Rain came in again in the evening.
Tuesday April 25
Was a tremendously wet day all day long.
Wednesday April 26
Was very dull looking and threatening for rain, but at 4 o’clock it came over brighter and gradually cleared up to quite a nice evening. About 5 o’clock, I, in my knickerbockers, mounted the Matchless and made for Wokingham, but reaching the Police Station at Finchampstead, I met Henry coming over here, so we directed our course for the Flats and Hartley Row. Called upon Mr Porter and took a cup of tea. We then went on to Hook and stayed a few minutes, and then right about face and back again. We parted at the finger post, Henry taking my lamp. Although we have had such a wet week and a very heavy lot of rain yesterday and a dull quiet day today, yet the roads were perfection. I have been surprised at the roads drying up before but I think I have never known them do so so quickly before. We had a good ride and both of us enjoyed it well. Bertha, Ada and Frances took the horse and cart to the Monument and back this evening. Today was my first day out on the bicycle since Sunday 16th.
30 miles
Thursday April 27
Was up at quarter past 6. Had a cup of tea with Mr Kent, and at 7 o’clock, I left for Wokingham. Saw the Volunteers off to Windsor to the Royal Wedding. Called at the office and saw a letter offering Jamie a situation on board a ship. Saw George Woods who had just taken his machine to the Works to have the chain mended. Got him to write about a mileage indicator.
Got home here at half past 8. Tom came over at 4 o’clock for a cheque for the patent, as Henry was short. I gave him some cheques to take in and a cheque for Wokingham so that Henry might give him his. After tea at 5.20 I went for a ride to the Golden Farmer via Yorktown and home through Frimley and Hawley. A capital run over excellent roads. The country is just beginning to look nice. It took me a little less than two hours to go round. Weather somewhat dull but fine.
31 miles
Saturday April 29
A very windy day and wet. The wind increased to a violent gale in the after part of the day. Several trees were blown up.
Sunday April 30
Very windy all day, but fine. Bertha and Frances walked to Wokingham because the pony is not very well. I went on the bicycle. We had a very splendid sermon from a young man of an unpretentious look. I stayed for the evening service and had another treat. Went for a walk in the afternoon with Tom. Mr Sale was at Southampton getting Jamie off on board the S.S. Severn.
11 miles
1882
Monday May 1
Rained considerably during the morning. I had to go to Wokingham in the afternoon to get some oatmeal for East Court. I found the roads very dirty but they dried up very much so that I took a run to Yateley and back after I had shut up.
17 miles
Tuesday May 2
Up at quarter past 6, got breakfast and then turned out for a run, and very much to my surprise, I found the road very wet there having been some rain in the night unknown to me. However, I went up Brickhouse Hill, over the Flats and home through Yateley and found it go very heavy. Bertha went to Mr Thick’s sale and bought a carpet £3.15.0, six chairs 8/-, one tea urn 4/5. The road having dried up during the the day and the wind having dropped, I, at quarter to 8, went over the same round as the morning only the opposite way. This evening, I found it go very easy and nearly half an hour quicker.
24 miles
Wednesday May 3
Up at half past 6 for a run to Heckfield, Hazeley Heath, and Hartley Row and a very pretty run it was too. About 9 o’clock, a heavy rain came on for half an hour which I feared would make the roads too bad to go out on in the evening. However, at 5 o’clock, I left here and found them very good to Wokingham where I called in for Henry, and he and I went off to Burchett’s Green. There was a slight wind in our back but we did not make any great pace as in places the road went quite indifferent. It took us 1 hour 5 minutes. It was a very pretty run, the country is now looking so fresh and green and all the trees are putting on their new garments so that although the road was not quite as we wished, the pretty evening made up for it. We found Mr and Mrs Micklem, Austen, Frank and Annie and her two children at home. We did not stay very long but made for home and had a glorious sunset in our face. I was somewhat tired having some heavy work yesterday and today. I had a lot of ironmongery in from Hitchcock’s.
42 miles
Thursday May 4
Was too tired to go for a run before breakfast. I cleaned the shop windows. Went up to see Mr Thick after tea but he was out. Went on to Downham’s to see if he had any hay, but he had none. I then took a run to Heckfield, Mattingley and Hartley Row over some excellent roads and it was somewhat of a pretty evening, so altogether I enjoyed the hour and half out. Bertha went to Mrs Sparvell’s to tea.
18 miles
Friday May 5
I got up at 7 o’clock and went for a run. The morning was very misty. I went to the Monument and on to the Wellington Arms and the back again. There being no wind and the road good, I got along excellently and enjoyed my hour out. I saw a pair of cuckoos cross the road just in front of me. Henry came over for tea on his way to Mount Eagle Farm, but as little rain came in, he did not proceed but turned for Wokingham again. The rain clearing off, I went a short spin.
16 miles
Saturday May 6
The roads were much too wet for a turn out this morning, but they dried up during the day, so that at half past 3, I went for a pretty little run over the Flats and Yateley, a distance of 12 miles. Mr Sale came over and Bertha went back with him taking Frances with her.
Sunday May 7
The morning being fine and calm, I turned out and went for a run steering my course for the Monument and on through Sherfield where I met one of Tom Butler’s sons and had word or two with him, by Sherfield Court up the hill and then to the left and on to Basing. Basing is a quaint old – shall I say town or village. Certainly the church is large enough for a considerable size town so I should think it was a town. I was very pleased I came this way so I had no idea of Basing being so large and pretty.
I came out on to the Basingstoke and London road, about a mile from Basingstoke. Turning to the left, I made a quick run home via Hartley Row. I had an egg and a cup of tea and then off to Wokingham to Chapel. Putting up at the office, I heard of the ghastly murder of Lord F. Cavendish in Ireland. After dinner, I went a short walk with Tom. Had an early tea and at half past 5, mounted the Matchless and made for Twyford via Hurst, on to B. Green but did not dismount, and so on to Marlow. Rested a few minutes on the bridge and had an orange while admiring the beautiful scenery. Ah, it was beautiful and calm but when I had been there ten minutes, the wind began to come in heavy gusts and dark clouds obscured the setting sun, and in the distance I could see the rain pouring down, so with all possible haste, I made for home and by quick work, kept just out of reach of the storm all the way to Twyford, where I saw no more of it. At the Post Office in Wokingham, I light up my lamp and had a glass of ale and then home. Altogether, I enjoyed the run very much. The roads were in such excellent condition all the way round both morning and evening. I got home very fresh indeed and in no way exhausted. Bertha, George and Frances came home via the College.
64 miles
Monday May 8
Although the morning was fine, I did not feel like turning out for a run. George Woods came over and stayed to dinner. I went back to Wokingham with him, and had to put up twice to escape the rain which made the roads very muddy. Had tea at Tom’s. Henry went to Newbury this morning.
11 miles
Tuesday May 9
Bertha and Frances went by carrier to Wokingham. I had back my forge and anvil by Young. Bertha and Frances came home via the College at 8 o’clock.
Wednesday May 10
Went to Sparvell’s for some change. Took £50.0.0 to Wixenford. Mrs Thick came to tea. At 20 minutes to 5, I mounted the bicycle in glorious weather and on A1 roads, I directed my course to Bagshot via Blackwater and Camberley. Called in at Mr Frimbley’s just in time for a cup of tea. It was their first day of early closing. After spending a pleasant quarter hour there, I again mounted and made for Chobham. It was very pretty all along the lanes, the roads were good and not a breath of wind. I made no stop at Chobham (here they were closed) but going a way on the Woking road, I turned and came back and on to Sunningdale over Chobham Heath. The road was loose in a few places but very good on the whole. It brought me out just a few yards on the Staines side of Sunningdale Station.
I then turned to the right up the London road as far as the top of Virginia Water hill. I ate an orange and had a few minutes at the cascade. Oh, it was most beautiful here and I should very much liked to have had a walk round the walk in the park, but had not time for it. I now made for home along the pretty road to Bagshot.
About a mile before I arrived there, I met Jessie and baby Frimbley, so I dismounted and had a few words with them. I did not call in at Frimbley’s on my way home, but at one of the fountains, I had a drink and light up my lamp and mounted again for the last time, as I rode up the hill to the Jolly Farmer, and, of course, did not dismount until I reached home. I came home via Frimley and Hawley so as to avoid the rough road of Camberley and Blackwater.
I arrived home perfectly fresh and could have enjoyed another run had it been light enough. This must certainly go down as a memorable run, good in every point. The weather was perfection and the roads good, the scenery pretty and varied and the whole distance done without fatigue. I hope I may have many more of them.
50 miles
Thursday May 11
Went in to Wokingham after tea with cheques. Had my hair cut. Went to Mr Clacy’s to see about hay.
15 miles
Friday May 12
Up and off for a run intending to go to Basing. I had to take some coffee to Wixenford so I went there and then on up Brickhouse Hill and through Hartley Row. The wind being too strong, I had to abandon Basing and turn off at Hook for Heckfield. I found the wind made it rather stiff going and had to put some power into the machine to make it go at 11 miles the hour. In the beech avenue on the left just before crossing the Monument road, I saw that one of the trees had blown down which will cause a nasty gap in the fine row. Came home and got on well with my work, and the day turning out beautifully fine and the wind dropping to a calm, I resolved on another run in the evening, so for this purpose, I had my tea at 4 o’clock. As we were at it, Henry dropped in on his way for a run. I did not ask him to go with me as I wanted to do a long run. I left here at 8 minutes to 5, and directed my course for Guildford. Putting on steam from the first, I made very good time all the way. I went via Farnborough, Ash and Normandy and found the roads very good nearly all the way. I arrived at Guildford without a dismount, except once for a (p). I just had a walk up the town and then left again. I got there in 1 hour 46 minutes so I must have travelled at 12 miles the hour. Having had the last four or five years a strong desire to go over the old road to Guildford via the windmill, I availed myself of the opportunity this evening.
So, leaving Guildford at 10 minutes to 7, I made pretty good pace and did not dismount until I came to the little stream at the foot of the sandy hill leading up to the ridge. Here I had a drink and a biscuit and then pushed up the long loose hill at the top of which I light my lamp and had an orange. Mounting again, I found patches of gravel for the next mile, but after that, beautiful roads. It was splendid going through Frimley so put me in mind of the bicycling days. I got home 10 to 9 feeling as fresh or fresher than when I started. It was lots easier than the morning run. I don’t know whether it is the machine or the roads or myself in better condition but I never travelled so comfortably and with so little fatigue: tonight I surpassed myself. When I got home, I found Mr Kent here.
58 miles
Saturday May 13
Up and out at 7 o’clock but without any breakfast, intending to go round Royal Military College lake, but feeling too lean, I only went as far as the Hartford road and then turned back again. This run took me over an hour so that I shall not go out again any more without something inside. Mr Sale came over to tea and Bertha and Frances went into Wokingham by him. I had a tolerably good evening.
This week I have been 208 miles on the Matchless which is eight miles further than I have ever been on a bicycle before in the same time, and what is more, I have not had one day out. It has all been done in the mornings and evenings except twice to Wokingham and back on business. With the omnicycle, I once went 203 miles in one week, but then I had two days out which was when I went to Brighton and back with Tom. Besides doing a long distance this week, I went 140 miles last week, so that taking the two weeks together, I went 348 miles which is 40 more than I have ever accomplished in the like time either on a bicycle or omnicycle. But the crowning point is I am not tired.
10 miles
Sunday May 14
Being rather windy, I didn’t go out before breakfast. I left for Wokingham about half past 9 and went via the College down the private road and by the Crooked Billet and Star Lane. Went to Chapel. Went for a walk with Tom who told me about his journey to London and his ascent into the ball on top of St Paul’s Cathedral, also about the electric exhibition. Henry asked me to go to Selborne with him tomorrow which I promised to do if fine. I came home the same course as I went. Bertha and Frances came home via the College.
15 miles
Monday May 15
Was up at 5 o’clock and ready dressed for a run to Selborne. I did the booking and tickets for the journey by half past 6. As the morning got on, the wind rose and so Henry did not come over, so I went to bed again for an hour. I was very glad he did not come as the day turned out cold and windy although it was bright. I had dinner at 12 o’clock and then went to Wokingham to work at George Woods’ machine and kept on at it until 9 o’clock.
11 miles
Tuesday May 16
Was too tired for a morning run. I went for one in the evening, first to the Greyhound for yeast, and then to Sparvell’s and over the Flats and then to Wokingham and back.
18 miles
Wednesday May 17
Had goods over. Millie and Mr Rainbow came over to view the sale at the Rectory (Eversley) and Henry came in at 4 o’clock, so we had tea, and then he and I started for Guildford and had a very good run over there via Ash and Normandy. We put our bicycles up at the White Lion and went to the British Workman and had tea and eggs. We left Guildford at half past 7, and came back via the ridges and Frimley. It was rather too late as the road is so rough over the ridges and wanted more light than we had to avoid the stones. This morning, I went round Blackwater lake and grounds. There was a partial eclipse of the sun this morning but I forgot to look out for it and so failed to see it.
56 miles
Thursday May 18
I went up to Mount Eagle Farm to tell Rushton to kill an extra pig. From there I went to view the sale at the Rectory. Henry and Louisa came over at 12 o’clock. Had dinner, and then they went off there. After tea, I went to Wokingham to see about a pony. The animal, being at Barkham, I and George went over and had a look at it. I offered £18.0.0 for it, but the man would not take less than £19.0.0 so we parted. I came home very tired. Bertha bought a bed at the sale for £2.0.0. Henry bought sundry lots including a coffin clock. We also had some lamps.
21 miles
Saturday May 20
I started at 7 o’clock this morning for a ride but the wind was too strong for me to enjoy it so I only went round Wixenford and then came home. I had a busy evening.
Sunday May 21
Bertha and Frances went by cart to Wokingham. I went via Broadmoor, Easthampstead and Star Lane. To Chapel and heard DrAngus. For a short walk before tea, and after for a ride to Marlow, and a very beautiful ride it was too. I did not stay very long at Marlow, just about quarter of an hour to enjoy the scenery of the river and then off home. Passing B. Green, I saw Austen and had a minute with him and had a bottle of bad ginger beer at the New Inn. As I came through Wokingham, I called in at the Market Place and arranged with Henry, if fine, to go to Selborne tomorrow.
42 miles
Monday May 22
Up at 6 o’clock and did the booking and tickets. At half past 7, Henry arrived. We had breakfast and off at 8.30 in bright and calm weather. Had a very nice run to the Golden Pot where we regailed ourselves with ginger beer and brandys. While here, it came up very windy, which caused the long downhill to Alton to go quite stiff. We did not stay at Alton except to have a drink at the fountain, but made our way direct to Selborne. We arrived just in time to see the people going to a confirmation service. Put up at the Royal Standard, the same hotel as last year’s, but a new landlord of the name of Carpenter, whom we found very nice people. We took a walk down, or rather up, the rocky lanes to Priory Farm and back. Dinner was served up very well and we did justice to it.
After dinner, we went up the zigzag and had a good view of the country around which very well pointed out by a woman at the cottage on top of the hill. In the shelter of the birch trees, here we enjoyed the fragrant smell and rested our tired frames for a short instance in sleep. Refreshed as saints we arose and descended the hill, and then took a walk to the church and down the Oakhanger Stream which is a very pretty walk between two small ranges of hill.
(Colin Smith)
This also led us round to the Priory Farm. We now started back by a way on the other side of the stream which had us back to the Church. Tea was now ready and we were ready for that, and after sitting down to a comfortable table and settling our account with the landlady which amounted to 7/3, we remounted our steeds, and home spread our ways via Oakhampton and Farnham and we liked it much. At Farnham, we had some ginger beer and then pushed up the hill by the castle and uphill for a long way. By pushing and riding, we reached the top of one bad road. At the top of the hill we took a view round and a very extensive one it is too. The sun, which was near upon setting, was too low to show the country up to its perfection. It was very pretty but not distinct enough to spot the different places around. Now came the downhill which was a vast take-in for it was unrideable nearly the whole of the distance, nothing but rough gravel and it looked like never being good enough for bicycling. It annoyed us very much to have to throw away this long amount of what ought have been 16 miles an hour travelling. However, all difficulties have an end, and so had this, for when we turned out into our lanes, we had excellent going for about six miles which brought us to Fleet station and pond. Of course, when we got here, we felt ourselves at home and soon made our way to the pointing hand post on the Flats at about half past 8.
On the whole, we had a very nice and pleasant day. The weather suited us very well. The way we came home is much further than by the route we usually go and the way we went this morning, and also the road is not to be compared to the old ways. I was all very well for a change, but most decided, I shall not do it again. I had rather of a difficulty in walking about, as yesterday, I sprained my leg so that it made it painful to stand upon but did not hurt in riding.
44 miles
Tuesday May 23
I had an early dinner and then off to Wokingham to repair Geo Woods’ machine. I kept at it until 9 o’clock and then came home.
11 miles
Wednesday May 24
We had a lot of rain yesterday and a very high wind today so that it was no go for a long run this evening. After 4 o’clock, I went to Wokingham to finish Geo Woods’ machine. On the road, I overtook Sir William Rainbow and a friend of his who he had brought down to buy an omnicycle. After working at the lathe until 8 o’clock, I came home and enjoyed the ride although it was against the wind.
11 miles
Thursday May 25
After taking £50 of change to Wixenford, I again left about 2 o’clock to finish Woods’ omnicycle, and this time I managed to finish the job much to my satisfaction. I didn’t get home until nearly 10 o’clock and had no lamp. It was moonlight and so I did not feel the want of it.
11 miles
Friday May 26
Bertha, Frances and Ada went to Reading. In the afternoon, I went to Wokingham for change. Had tea there and called at Moor Green on the way home. After I had closed I took change £20.15.0 to Wixenford, and on round the Crop and met Bertha and Frances, Ada having stayed at Reading.
19 miles
Sunday May 28
Up at 7 o’clock and off at half past for a run. Took the road to Blackwater, on to Hawley and Frimley, up to the Jolly Farmer, back down to Yorktown, turned into the College grounds at the Staff College, and through to Sandhurst and Yateley and so home at 10 o’clock. Cleaned up and off to Chapel at Wokingham, Bertha, Frances and Mary having gone by horse and cart. Had dinner at the office and then, at half past 3, I went across and got Henry to go to B. Green. We went via Hurst and Twyford and got there just in nice time for tea. Mr George and William Arrowsmith were there, also Frank and Austen. We stayed until past 7 o’clock and had a nice time with Mr Micklem. He informed us that Mr Kitts had failed. We came home via Shottebrooke and Waltham. There was a considerable amount of gravel before Shottebrooke. I did not stay at Wokingham but came on and so got home in nice time, just before Bertha drove in with Mr Barkshire. The roads today were in excellent condition.
42 miles
Monday May 29
After a somewhat restless night, I turned out at 6 o’clock, and after doing a little booking and breakfast, I at 25 to 8 mounted the bicycle for Wokingham, leaving Bertha, Mr Barkshire, Mary and Frances to come by horse and cart and Barker at the bread all by himself, as Charles is having a day at home.
I had a cup of tea at the shop, and then at 10 to 9, Henry and I left for Oxford in most magnificent weather with scarcely a breath of wind against us. We got to Reading very well, but found it rather lumpy and dirty all through the town and up to the barracks, from where the road was good again, and a most pretty run we had to Streatley through Pangbourne, at the latter place we stayed for a few minutes to take in the pretty scenery of the river and the locks. How we enjoyed the run from Reading to Streatley can only be imagined by those who have been over that lovely road on a splendid day like this. The beautiful avenue of trees, the grand old river and the mountainous slope of green hills are combined to make it a ride not to be easily forgotten. However, time and bicycle went along and brought us in to that old Roman city of Wallingford.
Here we put up at the [word missing] and had some excellent bread and cheese with lettuce and ginger beer which so sustained us that we cared not for any more food all day. We had a look round the town for half an hour and then mounted and away for Oxford via Dorchester where there is a very fine bridge. Again, we had excellent road until within four miles of Oxford. Then they ran very bumpy, although they had good surface and easy tracking.
We reached the City of Learning at 2 o’clock. We put up at the Royal Blenheim Hotel which we reached by turning from the main road, down to Aldgate Street and from there on the R opposite Christ Church clock down Pembroke Street. We had excellent accommodation here, especially in the wash up way, there was such a very nice lavatory. We had tea and boiled beef, but the boiled beef we did not much like. So had a plate of ham between us which did better. After regailing ourselves here, we proceeded to look round the Colleges and Church etc and by paying 3d each, we went to the top of the Sheldonian Theatre and had a good view around. Here we heard a very good organ.
At half past 4 we left for home and a little wind having sprung up put us along at a good pace. At the crossroads near Wallingford, we had some ginger beer and then again at 12 miles the hour, through Benson until we came to the uphill one, the range of hills between here and Henley. We got up these hills well, the road being in such superb condition. Reaching Nettlebed where there was a club being held, we had a splendid ride down to Henley. Called upon Motts and had some milk and a quarter of an hour’s rest, and then for home through Wargrave. We pushed up the steep rise before Wargrave, and then made the last mount and reached Wokingham at quarter to 8. I was just on time to see my folks off for Eversley. I had a little snap myself and then made my way there.
Looking back upon the day, I think that in both respects to the weather and the roads it was the best I have ever been out in. It was bright and sunny but not too hot. There were clouds but no dark ones, only just sufficient to give effect to the scenery. The road to Wokingham was perfect, good to Reading and all beyond that, excellent saving for bumpiness nearing Oxford. We neither of us suffered from headache or any other ailment, but both enjoyed the whole length of the run, although we both started off feeling the want of a night’s rest for we were both disturbed there somewhat, however that all worked off and we had the best day out that has fallen to our lot this year. I made the distance Wallingford 29, Oxford 42, Henley 65, home 82 miles.
Tuesday May 30
Having something to take to Wixenford, I went on the bicycle and on for a mile or two. At half past 7 I went to Wokingham and back to see Henry about some business and also to see Tom. I came home before 10.
15 miles
Wednesday May 31
Was very windy. Having so much bread left, we did not bake today. At quarter past 5, I left on my bicycle and made for Basingstoke via Hook, with a strong wind on my back which made it quick travelling there. From Basingstoke, I went six miles on the road to Andover, which I found of very good quality and all right for hills. Now turning home, I had the wind against me which gradually weakened in force as I proceeded. Took the way home via Sherfield and found it good going. Reached home at 9.30. I made good time, considering the wind. 40 miles in four and a quarter hours including stoppages.
40 miles
I have been this month on the bicycle for the greatest number of miles that I have ever done in the like time, namely 786, which is 285 more than the longest previous month’s riding I have ever had. This month has been a very windy one, but I have avoided it a great deal by doing nearly all the riding of a morning or in the evening. I had two days out, one at Selborne and one for Oxford, else I have been out very little in business time.
1882
Thursday June 1
Started off a little after seven this morning and took some sugar on to Wixenford and then to the Flats and round about so that I had been ten miles by the time I reached home. There was a very strong NE wind and which increased as the day wore on. Sent the cart to Wokingham for goods. At half past seven, I left for Wokingham. Called upon Tom and at the office and then home at 9.30.
21 miles
Friday June 2
I could not go for a run this morning in consequence of a gale blowing from the NE. However, after tea, it went down and then I went out. Called in at Mr James Well Coll Hotel to see a pony, but Mr James being out, I did no business. Went on through Sandhurst, the RM grounds, up Camberley to the Jolly Farmer, thence to Frimley and Hawley and home. The run was neither good nor bad.
20 miles
Saturday June 3
Up at 6 and off at half past to the Monument, Swallowfield, Arborfield, Barkham, Wokingham and home. I did not stay anywhere. I enjoyed the run very well indeed, there being no wind seemed quite a relief after the blowing days this week.
I find I have been this week 250 which is 42 more than any previous week, and I have accomplished this with very little fatigue. I should have made several more miles had not the last three days been so windy. There was a strong NE gale nearly the whole of those three days and nights so that I could not get out much of a morning. Besides doing this long distance this week, two weeks ago I ran 208 which was then the highest for seven days, and to add to its importance, I did the great total of 786 in the month that the early part of this week was in. With it all, I feel in A1 condition and none the worse for the action.
20 miles
Sunday June 4
Rained last night and early this morning so I only went to Wokingham on the bicycle. Bertha and the rest by cart.
Had a walk after dinner and to tea at Geo Woods’ in the Market Place for the last time. They have sold their business.
11 miles
Monday June 5
Barker let the pony down at Marshall Hill and cut her knees. Bertha and Frances went by first train to Reading. I walked to the College and met them home by the last train. We called in at the Hotel about the pony.
Tuesday June 6
After tea I went to Wokingham. Called upon Tom and tried the new machine from Birmingham. Miss Evans and Ada came over with Bertha yesterday.
11 miles
Wednesday June 7
At about 5 pm I started for Wokingham. At the Police Station, I met Henry so turned back and he and I went for a run through Yateley and Hawley by Frimley to the Golden Farmer. Here we had a look round and saw several vehicles coming home from the races at Ascot. We now went on through Bagshot where there had been a heavy shower of rain just previous. Took the road to the left leading to Bracknell and found that very wet for a mile or two. Instead of turning to the left for Easthampstead, we came via Bracknell and so to Wokingham. A very good evening out. I did not stay long, but made for Eversley.
30 miles
Thursday June 8
Mary Vickers had a letter from her parents telling her to come at once, not giving any reason for so doing. Bertha sent her to ascertain the cause. In the evening, I had to go to Wokingham to get something for Wixenford and as it rained, I walked to the College and just caught the 7.40 and back by the 8.15. While waiting at the station, I saw several specials from the races at Ascot.
Sunday June 11
Bertha and Frances walked to the College and so to Wokingham. The morning was showery and so I could not get away until nearly 12 o’clock. Went for a walk by myself in the afternoon. To Chapel in the evening.
11 miles
Monday June 12
Booking all the morning. Altered Marshall’s tricycle in the afternoon. Henry and Tom came over to see me about entering into another agreement with Salamon.
Tuesday June 13
Commenced cleaning up the shop. Went to Wokingham for some paper after tea. Rained coming home.
11 miles
Wednesday June 14
Was busy at the shop all day. Cleaned the ceiling after 4 o’clock. The day was no good for bicycling, too cold and windy.
Thursday June 15
In the afternoon, I went to Sandhurst and bought some oats. Then to Wokingham for some more paper. Came home and hung it up.
Friday June 16
Took me all morning to get up the orders, after which I got on with the painting of the shop. Tom, Louisa and Mr Knight came over on omnicycles in the evening.
Saturday June 17
I had a very busy day, did not close until past 11 o’clock. I have not been out on the bicycle much this week. The weather was not good enough and I was very busy with doing up the shop.
Sunday June 18
Was wet so I went by cart to Wokingham with Bertha and Frances. George went yesterday. The little cat has been done up at Vincent’s and this was its first time out. We did not get in time for Chapel through waiting for the rain. We went to Chapel in the evening. Jamie came home with us.
Monday June 19
Could not go out because I was so busy with booking and then the painting of the shop.
Tuesday June 20
Having ordered some goods to come by carrier for Wixenford, and them not coming, I had to go into Wokingham for them. Just before I left here, Henry came over on his bicycle. I got the goods and took them to Wixenford by 7 o’clock and then went to Star Hill and met Henry. We then turned back and went over the Flats to Blackwater, Darby Green and Yateley. It was a pleasant evening out.
26 miles
Wednesday June 21
Henry drove over with some goods before dinner and then back. We had arranged to go to Marlow but the day would not do. It began dull and got worse and worse, until, in the evening, the rain commenced. So instead of going out I stayed at home and painted the shop.
Thursday June 22
Settled with Lawe’s traveler. After tea, I went to Sandhurst and bought some oats, and then on to Wokingham for change. When I got home, I did some painting until past 10 o’clock.
14 miles
Friday June 23
To Wokingham.
14 miles
Sunday June 25
Rained all last night and early this morning so that the roads were not good enough for bicycling, so I drove Bertha, Frances and Ada into Wokingham. Bertha, Frances and I took a walk in the afternoon. While they were gone to Chapel in the evening, I went for a very nice ride with Henry round Easthampstead. I went on his 50ʺ Timberlake.
9 miles – 50ʺ
Monday June 26
I got on well with the booking. At 1 o’clock Mr Pearce sent up £2.0.0, so I had a snap of dinner and off to Wokingham in time to stop Henry putting the matter in the Court. I came home directly and was back by a little past 2 o’clock. At half past 8, I went for another run, this time to the Flats and Yateley. It was a very nice evening and I enjoyed the ride very much. It took me just the hour to go round. Miss Bartlett, a dressmaker came today. George drove Mr Townsend’s pony to Winchfield to meet a servant which we had coming from Bournemouth today.
22 miles
Tuesday June 27
Bertha and Frances went to Wokingham and back by the carrier.
Wednesday June 28
After closing at 4 o’clock, I had a cup of tea and left here at 20 minutes past for Wokingham to see if Henry would go to Marlow and Henley with me. The wind was rather strong but blew that way. Arriving at the Market Place, I found Henry waiting for me, and for that very journey. I was half inclined to have an hour on the cricket ground to see the play between the 92nd Highlanders and Wokingham, but am glad I didn’t for I had a splendid run. We left Wokingham at 5, called in at Burchett’s Green and had a feed of strawberries. Saw Edwin’s new omnicycle there. Frank was just going out on it.
A beautiful run to Marlow and a long stay on the bridge watching the boats while I smoked two cigarettes. By the time we got to Marlow, the wind had dropped to quite a calm. To Henley was prime and there we had some time on the bridge and another some. They were getting ready for the boat races next week. Before we got to Wargrave, we called in at a place and had some ginger beer and biscuits. The ginger beer was good but the biscuits bad.
We rather expected to overtake Mr Knight on the way home from Henley, but did not. From here we came home straight off. I did not stay more than two or three minutes at Wokingham but came home sharp, arriving at Eversley exactly at 10 o’clock. I really enjoyed this run and did not feel the least tired.
44 miles
Thursday June 29
Commenced putting the shop to rights. In the afternoon to Sandhurst and bought some oats, poll, hens and toppin’. Had tea at Pigg’s. Then on to Wokingham to see about Ada going to Dorchester. While I was going to Sandhurst, Henry came to Eversley with change for Wixenford. I met him coming back. Saw Tom at Wokingham and arranged to meet him at Heath Pool at 8 o’clock, which I did and we had a bathe. The pond is in very good condition.
21 miles
Friday June 30
Ada left for Dorchester. She went to Reading and is going to start from there, Saturday. Bertha and Frances went with her. At 4 o’clock, I went to Blackwater and called upon Mr Alcock for some money. He paid me £15.0.0 which left his account to £5.0.0. Coming through the College grounds, I saw some cricket. Overtook a tricyclist and showed him the way to Wokingham.
20 miles
1882
Saturday July 1
Being a nice fine day and looking like settled weather, I set out the shop a bit, so as to be ready for a trip next week to the New Forest.
Sunday July 2
Special services were held at New Mill Chapel this being the last that will be held in the old building. It was a beautiful fine day and we had a good company from Wokingham there. Having to get to Sandhurst for some yeast, I was too late for the morning service. Bertha and Frances went. Geo Sale preached. In the afternoon, Henry came over and then Tom. So those two and I and James Barkshire, who came on his bicycle just before dinner, went to service when Mr Woodrow preached from ‘I have loved the habitation of thy house and the place where thine honour dwelleth’. A great many came to our place to tea. In the evening, I went for a run to Bramshill House and the Monument. Henry and I arranged to start for the New Forest tomorrow afternoon. While we were at supper, I placed the shop lamp on the bureau and the heat from it broke the large looking glass.
18 miles
Monday July 3
The day turned out nice and bright and warm, so I got along with the booking and put all things ready for my journey to the New Forest. There was a slight breeze all day but nothing to matter. Miss Bartlett went home this morning. At half past 4, Henry came, when we had tea, and then at 5 o’clock, we started off the weather having come over a little bit cloudy. We went through Bramshill Park and on to the Monument. From there the weather quickly came up rough and heavy looking, and got worse so we determined to abandon the New Forest and leave it for finer weather.
We went on to Basingstoke and put up our bicycles and had a feed at Owen’s. Then a walk around the town. We saw a poor little dog who had been run over, I suppose, for it went down the street dragging its hind legs along and walking by its fore. The wind which was SW, blew us home sharp.
24 miles
Tuesday July 4
Bertha and Frances went by carrier to Wokingham and back. After tea, I went in for some change, called upon Mr Spencer about his account.
11 miles
Wednesday July 5
Was wet so I stayed at home and set out the shop in the evening. Jamie Sale came back from Reading.
Thursday July 6
Had to get to Wokingham this morning for some cakes for Wixenford. There was a cricket match in Wokingham v Bracknell. I had a half hour on the ground and then came home to dinner. After dinner, I went in again to see the account. It was a very uncomfortable kind of weather, cold and good deal of wet. Wokingham won. Had tea at the Post Office. Called upon Mr Woods and then upon Tom and had a long talk with Tom.
22 miles
Saturday July 8
There was to have been a cricket match played at the Wellington College ground, Crowthorne v Pompadour regiment. I went over in the afternoon to see it and hear the band, but when I got there, there was no cricket for the regiment was ordered out to Egypt. However, I went up to the College ground and saw some cricket there.
Sunday July 9
We all went to Wokingham, I on the bicycle. It was the Sunday School anniversary. Mr Woodrow preached from ‘A child left to himself’. Went for a walk after dinner and to Mrs Rainbow’s to tea. The day was showery.
11 miles
Monday July 10
Wet again. In the evening Mr Woolford called in and wanted to settle his County Court job by offering 8/- and promising the rest by instalments. So by 8 o’clock, I went in to see Henry about it. Home by 10 o’clock.
11 miles
Tuesday July 11
Bertha went in by the carrier to see a pony of Mr Noble’s. I went in on the bicycle and got there at 12 o’clock, wet through, so I changed clothes at the office and waited for the pony to arrive, but his not doing so by 3 o’clock, I went down to Tom’s house and had an hour there and then back to the office to tea and the pony not having come by this time, I mounted the bicycle and went to Earley to Mr Noble’s and saw the animal there. I like the look of it very well and agreed to have it at £23.0.0 if Bertha liked it. So, he was to bring it to Wokingham for Bertha to see it tomorrow. For this reason, she stayed at Wokingham while I came home.
22 miles
Wednesday July 12
Barker was up early and got his bread out, and then went to Reading. George did the journey with Dick, as Charles let the pony down yesterday, so that it is unable to go out. When he came home he and Jamie walked to Wokingham and from there by train to Earley to bring home the new pony. I left here at half past 5 and made for Wokingham, found Henry had gone out, so I went off to Burchett’s Green and had a very nice run over there. Found the good folks at home and had a good feed of strawberries and a long talk with Mrs Micklem about grandfather’s poems. She gave me a good order.
I left a little after 8, and went to Reading which I found very full with visitors to the Royal Agricultural Show. I put up at the Upper Ship and then went to Forbury Gardens and heard a good band and saw the fireworks that went off very nicely indeed.
I left Reading a little before 11 o’clock and got home via Wokingham a little after 12 o’clock, after spending a very pleasant evening. Bertha paid Mr Noble for the pony.
30 miles
Thursday July 13
George went to the Royal Agricultural Show this morning. I went down by the 1.45 train from Wokingham and stayed until the 8 up. The whole of my time was taken up with the machinery and looking out for a trap for the pony. It was a very extensive show and would take a whole week to look into everything.
11 miles
Friday July 14
Got all the orders up and the shop straight so as to get off again to the Show at Reading. Bertha went on to the College and down by the 14.8 while I went to Wokingham by the bicycle and down by the same train. Tom and Geo Woods went also. Bertha and I got out at Earley and walked to the Show, calling in at Mr Noble’s to see his trap, where we had a glass of ale. At the Show, we met Tom and Woods and we all went to select a trap, and I ordered one. We all came back by the 7 o’clock train to Wokingham and Bertha on to the College. I took change home for Wixenford.
11 miles
Sunday July 16
Having no horse but Dick and he has had too much to do to allow of his going out today, we were all at home to dinner. I went in about 4 o’clock. Had tea at the shop. At 6 o’clock, I left for Burchett’s Green and went via Bill Hill and Stanlake. A mile from Twyford, I changed my mind and turned back for Reading and called upon Minnie. Had a very good run home through Wokingham.
30 miles
Monday July 17
In the afternoon, I went to Wokingham and put the old trap together. Had tea at Tom’s. Came home in a heavy rain at half past 9.
11 miles
Tuesday July 18
George and Bertha by carrier, George to fetch the trap home and Bertha to a sale at Reading. I up to Downham to see if I could get some money. Mr Ryder came in and paid and stayed to supper. He went about half past 11.
4 miles
Wednesday July 19
A bright but very windy day. In the afternoon it came over cloudy, windy and dull. I went to Wokingham at half past 4 and called upon Henry to see if he was going for a run, but the evening being so dull, cold and windy, we decided not to go. However, after a time, it seemed to get a little brighter and so we altered our minds and at half past 6, we left for B. Green. As we went on, the weather got better and better, until when we reached B. Green, it was tolerably bright and the wind dropped. After having a good feed of strawberries and a look round the garden, we made for Twyford and called upon Mr Jenkins where we had a very nice supper and then a very nice run home. I did not call in at Wokingham but came home direct. I quite enjoyed the run over which was more than I expected to do because as I say, the weather was so wintery when I started.
32 miles
Thursday July 20
Henry came over after tea. After I had closed I went for a run to Yateley and up to the Flats and home by Brickhouse.
9 miles
Friday July 21
In the evening, I went to Wokingham and took some cheques in for the bank and one for the shop for £200.0.0.
11 miles
Saturday July 22
Had a busy evening. Mr Sale drove over bringing with him Mr Eaton.
Sunday July 23
Began with wet but cleared off bright and very windy. Went to Wokingham to Chapel. Tea at Geo Woods. Went for a walk with Tom in the afternoon. Mr and Mrs Maldon were down at Wokingham. I to Chapel again in the evening.
11 miles
Monday July 24
I went up to Downham’s after tea to see him about his account but he was not at home. Called in at Mrs Parkers to see her about hers. Mr Harmsworth settled his account. Went round to Lee Farm to see Mr Radford but he also was out.
6 miles
Tuesday July 25
I painted the trap. Mr and Mrs Eaton. Mr and Mrs Herington and child and Mrs Geo Sale came over to dinner and tea. In the evening, I cleaned and repaired Henry’s clock.
Wednesday July 26
Was a beautiful fine day and had the appearance of being set in for good weather. The goods came over and so I wrote to Henry to come over early and go with me to Guildford after 4 o’clock. There were a great many orders to put up which I soon accomplished and then put the goods away and washed and hung up the bacon and put the trap together.
Directly after dinner, I got ready for the afternoon and then Henry came over a little after 3 o’clock ready equipped for a journey to the New Forest, as he felt since the weather was right for it. It didn’t take me long to get ready and to put things a little in order for my absence. After writing a letter or two etc, we had tea, and then in splendid weather, with a slight breeze at our backs, we, at half past 4, sallied off on our journey for the New Forest.
Up Brickhouse Hill, we pushed our bicycles and then had a good run before us to Basingstoke, at which place we had coffee and bread and butter at the Coffee Tavern, a most excellent place all fitted with a lavatory etc. We left at 6.10 and made for Winchester which place we reached at half past 8. We did not find the roads so good as I expected. They were not dry enough and rather sandy in many places. After Winchester, they were good right the way to Shirley which we reached by going to within two miles of Southampton and then turning to the right just this side of the second toll gate. It was 10 to 10 when we got to Shirley. We put up at the Coffee Tavern just at the end of the train line, where we had coffee and ham and then a stroll round the place. Turned in at 11 o’clock and I had a very good night’s rest while Henry was unable to get a wink until the morning and then only for an hour. However, it didn’t affect him much, neither then nor the next day. We woke up a little after 7 o’clock when we again had coffee and ham. We didn’t get on the road until half past 9, what with cleaning up etc. We passed over the water at Redbridge and on to Lyndhurst Road station.
Here, we entered the Forest and came on to Lyndhurst. From here we went to Minstead and on to the Rufus Stone, where we sat down for about an hour and then on to Stoney Cross and to the left to Bolderwood. This part we enjoyed very much. The road was good and the forest grand. However, time forbad us to dwell, so we pressed back to Lyndhurst to drink which we had at the Crown served up well and totally reasonable. After drinks we went through Brockenhurst, another very pretty part of the Forest, and then on to Lymington on splendid roads.
We were very much disappointed in Lymington and so were soon out of it. There is no sea there only a dirty kind of ditch and the town is but small. We now had to retrack our way back for two miles, Ringwood being our destination. When we came to a turning for that place, we found the wind rather strong, right in our face so we dismounted and held a consultation as to the desirableness of altering our course to Southampton and thence to West Meon. Not being able to satisfy ourselves upon this point, we turned back to the New Inn and had tea, and a good tea too and cheap. Well after tea, we determined to try Ringwood again, so we did and found, much to our delight, that the wind had changed and now rather helped than hindered us. We had proceeded more than a mile or two, when we were stopped by the rain. However, it cleared off very soon, and we were again on our way.
After passing Burley, we had a delightful run to Ringwood. It was a little before 8 o’clock and the sun was setting most gloriously over the distant hills. Oh, it was delightful. When we got to Ringwood, it began to drizzle a little but not enough to make us wet, so we proceeded along over the best piece of road I think that I was ever on. Six miles of perfectly level, splendid surface and very pretty, two miles of it being like through an avenue. This brought us to Fordingbridge and at the Albany Hotel and Coffee Public House, we had excellent entertainment and cheap.
Friday July 28
We left Fordingbridge for Salisbury at 9 o’clock in anything but bright looking weather. We had not proceeded far when a fine drizzle came on and thickened until we reached Salisbury when it gave over. We put our bicycles up and had a look round the city and in the Cathedral. It is a very fine old city and a place I intend visiting again. I bought two books there.
From Salisbury, the weather brightened and came out very pleasant. We got to Andover at half past 1 and had dinner at the Catherine Wheel Coffee House. After dinner, we had a look around the town and church, and at half past 3, mounted again for Basingstoke. Henry had a spill down one of the hills. There was some very pretty scenery along this road and we enjoyed it much. At Basingstoke, we had tea and then a quick run home.
General Remarks – The weather was all in our favour. We started off with a slight wind at our back and a nice clear sky and at night the moon shone clear and bright. Next day, Thursday, there was rather more wind but that didn’t matter as we only had short journeys to do, sometimes one way and sometimes the other. In the afternoon, just as we were about to take a long run against it, it miraculously changed a point or so, so as to help rather than hinder us. Friday, it was decidedly in our favour, and if we had been going against it, we should have said it was strong. The only times the weather was at all dull, was when it rained for about ten minutes on the way to Ringwood and from Ringwood to Fordingbridge, and then again from Fordingbridge to Salisbury. All this was a very short distance and time. Now all the rest of the time it was everything we could possibly desire and we were thankful for it.
Roads – The road to Winchester fell below my expectation, not having had time enough to dry after the day before rain, but from Winchester to where we turned off for Shirley it was very good, better than I anticipated, to Shirley all on the descent was perfection. Between Shirley and Eversley there is only one hill unrideable and that near Otterbourne. From Shirley to Lyndhurst was very good but bumpy. From Lyndhurst to Rufus Stone, good, and from there to Bolderwood, excellent except for the up and down hill. From Lyndhurst to Lymington, very A1 and totally level. From Lymington to Ringwood first two miles good, next three good, next two bad, and then excellent. From Ringwood to Fordingbridge as level as a die and most excellent quality. Fordingbridge to within three miles of Salisbury, all level but slightly bumpy, thence into Salisbury, rather hilly but good. Salisbury to Andover is nothing but up and down hill and very long ones too. From the first four miles, the quality is very good but it deteriorates into seriously bad track for at least two miles, then it improves into perfection. From Andover to Basingstoke, is very good all the way, in fact, excellent. All the hills are ridable and there is a due proportion of level ground. Between Salisbury and Andover, there are scarcely any houses and the road lays open without any hedge.
At each of the places we put up at, we were well and cheaply housed. The distance I make as from…
Eversley to Shirley – 43
Shirley to Lyndhurst – 7
Round about Lyndhurst – 10
To Lymington – 8
To Ringwood – 14
Fordingbridge – 10
88 miles
Salisbury – 11
Andover – 17
Whitchurch – 6
Basingstoke – 18
Eversley – 12
146 miles
Sunday July 30
To Wokingham and Chapel twice. Mr Scorey preached. It rained just before I came home and so I left my bicycle and borrowed Henry’s 50ʺ to come home on.
11 miles
Monday July 31
After tea, I went over to Swallowfield to see Mr Mordy about terms and then round to Radford’s and by New Mill. After that to Wokingham and left the 50ʺ and brought Henry’s Matchless over to have over.
22 miles
1882
Tuesday August 1
Was bad with the toothache all day.
Wednesday August 2
Went up to see Mr Radford. Drove the pony to Sandhurst and ordered corn. Very windy in the afternoon so I did Henry’s bicycle.
Thursday August 3
Went to Wokingham for change on Henry’s machine and came home on my own. Saw one of Tom’s all plated machines. Went to Yateley Church and back after I had closed.
17 miles
Friday August 4
Was very busy with orders all the morning. After tea, I went for a ride to Wokingham and back.
11 miles
Saturday August 5
Got Barker off early as he was to do both journeys today as I was afraid to let Charles out with the pony yet. Had a very good evening.
Sunday August 6
To Wokingham to Chapel and heard Mr Scorey, very indifferently, from ‘and I if I be lifted up will draw all men unto me’. For a walk in the afternoon and after tea, I left for Burchett’s Green, but my face came on so bad that I turned for home about a mile beyond Twyford. I came home via Sandford Mill and a painful time I had of it. I was glad enough to reach Eversley.
27 miles
Monday August 7 – Bank Holiday
Up at half past 7 and made out a few tickets for the Crop journey and started Barker and Charles off that round. Bertha, Jamie and Frances went to Wokingham about 9 o’clock. I followed at half past 10 and called in to see Tom who is busy at the new machine for 1883 having got his former blacksmith down for a week to do the forgings. I spent some time with Tom and then up to the Market Place and found all out of the shop, they having gone for a picnic to Finchampstead ridges. Then on to the Post Office and took a telegram to Bearwood, a nice little run. After dinner, I left for Guildford, but feeling very lonely and not up to the mark for riding, and when I got the SER bridge, turned back and went to Burchett’s Green via Hurst Church, Green Man and Ruscombe Church. Got to Burchett’s Green just in time for tea and had a very good one too. I then attempted to set one of their clocks in order, but before I had finished it, my tooth came on so bad that I had to leave it and come home. Mrs Micklem gave me some camphor which eased it wonderfully. Mrs W, being in want of a servant, I recommended our late Mary Vickers to her, and at her wish, I agreed to see her about the situation. The weather was very fine and not much wind, a capital day for on holidays, but I was not up to the mark and so did not enjoy it much.
37 miles
Tuesday August 8
Bertha and Frances went by carrier to Wokingham to see Mary Vickers about Aunt’s place. Henry came over after tea and we arranged to go to Guildford tomorrow at 3 o’clock.
Wednesday August 9
I got on well with my work and so was ready for Guildford at 3. Henry came over at half past 2, so at quarter past 3, we started off in capital weather with a very slight NE wind against us. We went via Ash and had a very good run. Got to Guildford at 5.30 and had tea at the Temperance Hotel which occupied our time til 6.30. We then took a very pleasant walk on the Godalming road over the railway tunnel and up to the Monastery where we had an excellent view around. We then went down the hill to the river and came home along its banks, a very pretty walk indeed. It was nearly 8 o’clock when we left Guildford and came home via Wood Street and Ash. It was, altogether, a capital run out. The roads were a little loose but not so bad as we expected to find them.
40 miles
Thursday August 10
After dinner, I went to Wokingham to see how Tom was getting on with his machine. I spent a long time in the works and had tea with hm. I did not get home until 8 o’clock.
11 miles
Friday August 11
Had the goods over. After dinner, Bertha, Frances and I went with the pony to Sandhurst and I ordered corn. We then went round the Well Coll grounds and home by Darby Green, a very nice little ride and a pretty afternoon.
Saturday August 12
In the morning, I went to Wokingham to see about the income tax papers. Got back to dinner. Had a very good day.
11 miles
Sunday August 13
To Wokingham Chapel in the morning. For a walk in the afternoon and to Burchett’s Green in the evening. Roads loose.
31 miles
Tuesday August 15
After tea, I went round Farley Hill by bicycle to look the customers up, but was not very successful.
12 miles
Wednesday August 16
We had a party for Bramshill House. Bertha drove the pony and George, the horse and cart to meet them by the 8.32 train from the College. Annie and Mr D, Minnie and Mr J, Mrs Eager, Miss F. Frimbley and Jamie came. They went for a walk in the morning and Jamie and Miss Frimbley got into the punt at New Mill and overset themselves into the water, so that they were unable to go with us to Bramshill House. At 3 o’clock, Millie and a friend drove over, and Henry on his bicycle, and Tom and Geo Woods on omnicycles. At 4 o’clock, the brake from Mr Eyles drove up and we all went up to the house. Had a capital time up there and then home to tea.
5 miles
Thursday August 17
Attempted to go to Wokingham in the evening but my face was so bad I could not manage the job, so I only went a mile or so and then home.
4 miles
Friday August 18
After I went to see how Tom was getting on with the new machine, but he had not made much progress, as the man he had in from Reading is is slow as worker and Winnow is laid up from work through an accident he received to his arm on Wednesday. Mr Salamon had been down to see Tom just before I arrived, and he strongly recommended Tom to use the cogs for the back action in preference to the chain.
11 miles
Saturday August 19
Mary Maynard, who had been staying with us for the last week, went home, Bertha driving her to the College.
Sunday August 20
Bertha, Frances and Mabel to Wokingham leaving George, Charles and Mary at home. I went in on the bicycle to dinner.
I have been suffering for the last two weeks from the face ache and have been very much out of sorts so I have not done much riding during that time.
We all left Wokingham at half past 6 for home.
Monday August 21
I took an order into Wokingham after tea. Stayed some time down at Tom’s so was rather late home.
11 miles
Wednesday August 23
Goods came over. Bertha and Frances drove to Wokingham. George went with the horse and cart for some lime. After tea, I went in on the bicycle and pottered about for some time. Called upon Geo Woods and then came home. Paid him for my hat. 3/11.
11 miles
Thursday August 24
Bertha drove in to Wokingham to bring over Lily Malden. George and Barker went up to Thick’s and brought home the washstand and table. Mr Thick has not cleared out and let his house. After dinner, I went over to Mr Pigg’s and coming on to rain, I stayed to tea. Went on up to Radford’s and got him to send a ton of hay at £4.15.0. George drove Lily to the Well Coll. I had a letter from Mr Hopkinson explaining the prices of hay, straw and oats.
10 miles
Friday August 25
Bertha drove Mabel home. I sent out prices of Crystal Oil at 9d per jar to several families. Radford sent in one ton hay.
Saturday August 26
Was very busy all day and evening also. George went to Wokingham for bacon. Henry called in on his way from Pigg’s farm in the afternoon.
Tom had a cheque for over £180 for royalties.
Sunday August 27
Bertha and Frances by trap to Wokingham and I on the bicycle in time for the sermon at the Chapel. At 10 to 4, Henry and I started for B. Green and had a capital run over there, but were a little late for tea, they having had it rather earlier because they had some company. However, there was enough left for us. We had a pleasant hour over there and a nice ride home. Bertha and Frances stayed at Wokingham all night so as to have the pony shod at Hill on the morrow. I came home about 8 o’clock.
32 miles
Monday August 28.
Took £10.0.0 change to Lady Glass and enquired about the new gardener. George went to Wokingham to stay all night and Bertha and Frances came home, bringing Eva with them.
Tuesday August 29
It rained all the morning. George came back by the carrier. After tea, I went to Wokingham and took a small order to the shop. Went over to Mr Watts to urge him to get on with the settlement of our affairs. Paid Mr Spencer his bill and 4/6 for Tonga. Paid Mrs Sale’s bill. Called in to see how Tom was getting on with the new omnicycle, but found very little progress made. Nice moonlight ride home.
11 miles
Wednesday August 30
Bertha and Frances drove to Wokingham leaving here at 7 o’clock. They then went on to Reading and had Frances’ likeness taken at White’s for an enlargement. George took Dick to Wokingham for goods. Directly after breakfast, I went to Sparvell’s to see if he could let me have 3 or 4 sk flour so as to keep me going until next week when I expect a fall in price. He was having some in from Lawes, and so told me to stop the van as it passed and take what I wanted. I now went over to Sandhurst and bought some oats etc. At half past 4, I left for B. Green, going via Arborfield and Sindlesham and then through Hurst and Twyford. The roads were in splendid condition and the wind with me. I had not been there but a few minutes when Henry drove up. After a few minutes, he went on to Marlow while I stayed at B. Green. As he came back, he called in and we both rode home together as far as Wokingham. Here I had supper at the office and enjoyed it. I recited a few pieces to Miss Lewis who enjoyed it very much. Had a beautiful moon light ride home.
40 miles
Thursday August 31
I intended going to Reading to order oil but the rain came on and so kept me at home.
1882
Friday September 1
Was a regular wet day.
Saturday September 2
Had the tooth ache all day.
Sunday September 3
Being very much out of sorts with the face ache, I did not go to Wokingham until nearly 1 o’clock. Went for a walk with Tom in the afternoon. Had tea at Mary’s and came home early.
11 miles
Monday September 4
Played at cricket in a match in our eleven of William Townsend v Hazeley Heath. Our side only scored 11 runs of which I made 2. In the second innings I made 4. Hazeley Heath won by an innings and 20 runs. This is the first game of cricket I have had since I broke my leg.
Henry called in on his way to John Butler to see about hogs. I put a new holder to his bicycle lamp in the evening.
Tuesday September 5
Bertha and Frances drove to Wokingham and had a very wet ride home.
Wednesday September 6
I drove up to Denham’s and bought a ton of hay at £4.10.0. In the evening, just as I was going for a run, Henry and Mr Knight came over on omnicycles. After they were gone, I went to Wokingham and back. I have been too much out of sorts for much riding. Began the stall for the pony.
11 miles
Thursday September 7
We had a party consisting of Mr Evans, Mr Sale, Mrs Halfacre and Miss Evans to go over Bramshill house and Heckfield Gardens. They had a capital day for it. I did not go, being busy with the stable. I went for a run in the evening along the Flats and Yateley. Did not enjoy it as my face was so bad.
12 miles
Friday September 8
After dinner, I went to Reading to have my tooth out. It was a capital afternoon, and if I had been up to the mark, I should have enjoyed it. Called upon Knowles but he was out, so went up to Minnie and had tea and then to Sprent in Broad St for him to take out the tooth, but he advised leaving it in, and gave me some pills which he said would calm it.
Bought a ledger in Minster St for 12/-. Came home via Wokingham to get to the shop just as Millie and family arrived home from Hastings. Called in at the Works and saw Tom. Came home bad enough at 9 o’clock.
22 miles
Saturday September 9
Tolerably busy. I was very bad in the evening and could hardly serve in the shop. Carrie Evans who had been staying with us since Thursday went home today.
Sunday September 10
Got up much better this morning. Left for Burchett’s Green at 10 o’clock and went via Arborfield and Sindlesham. There was only Mr Micklem and Henry at home. After staying half an hour, I left for Wokingham via Ruscombe, Stanlake and Bill Hill. Found the road the old way very good. It was a very nice morning with scarcely any wind and the roads were good and I enjoyed the run. Directly after tea, I ran down and saw Mary and then went for a ride to Bracknell and Easthampstead. At the square pond I overtook Henry on the omnicycle and we went in company to Broadmoor, Well Coll and Ridge. Here he branched off for Wokingham while I came on for home. The weather has been very good today, rather hazy but very pretty.
36 miles
Monday September 11
After dinner, I went to Hartley Row to see Mr Charles Lee about his account. Then after tea, I went via Ravenswood to the Crooked Billet and called upon Mr Milam about his bill.
At half past 7, George, Charles and I went up to the school to hear Mr Newnham on ventriloquism. It was a very poor entertainment.
20 miles
Tuesday September 12
Set out the shop. Geo Woods and company came to tea after having been over to Bramshill House.
Wednesday September 13
It was a beautiful morning so I had breakfast sharp and then off to Wokingham to see if Henry would go for a day or two out on the bicycle. He was able to, so in about an hour’s time, we were equipped and ready to start for Brighton.
We left Wokingham at 9 minutes past 10, and made our way to the Crooked Billet, Crowthorne, through the Royal M College grounds and to Frimley at 11.7, through Ash and Normandy to Guildford at 12.12. Ordered dinner at the Temperance Hotel and while it was preparing, we took a walk about the town. We had some splendid mutton chops and altogether a capital dinner. At 1.56, we mounted and made for Shalford and on to Alford Cross road, over some excellent roads. Now in to Horsham was very bumpy and uncomfortable riding. However, we got there at 4.7 and had tea at the Black Horse and at 5.9 were on the road again, which was very good up to the downhill into Cowfold which was rough and necessitated quiet going. From Cowfold to Henfield they improved and from there to Brighton were excellent. Brighton we reached at 7.40.
It is a most lovely run to Brighton as regards the scenery, I don’t know of a grander, but the roads were not good enough, there is too much of the bad. We could not have had more lovely weather, bright and sunny and a slight breeze at our backs. How magnificent the Sussex Downs appeared with the setting sun lighting them up in many colours, and how beautiful the Surrey hills showed themselves from Guildford to Horsham. We were very fresh when we reached our destination.
We put up at the Star Hotel at the back of the Unicorn Inn, North Street, Brighton. I should not sleep there again as there are vehicles coming in all night long and the bedrooms are over the yards. However, they only kept me awake for an hour from three to four.
68 miles
Thursday September 14
We were up betimes and while breakfast was preparing, took a walk about to the sea. It was a splendid morning. After a great deal of hesitation upon which way we should go, we at last decided upon Portsmouth and so left Brighton at 9.20 and passed through Shoreham and over the old bridge on to Arundel where we had some bread and cheese and beer. As it threatened very much for a thunderstorm, we took a walk round to the park, but as it seemed to pass over, we took to our steeds at 11.55 and made for Chichester but I took the wrong road and went all up the hill to the park gate on the Bury road.
While going up here, the thunder came up again and got worse and worse until as we neared Slindon it got very black and we put up there for shelter, and presently down came the rain and there we were shut up all the afternoon in the public house. There was a flower show on there and they had a bad time, poor things.
A little after 5 o’clock, it left off raining and all cold and miserable, we took to our saddles again and made a quick run to Chichester over some very wet, but good, roads. It now being 6 o’clock, we put up at the Bell and had tea and sausages, after which we took a walk round the city, which is not a very large place. We did intend getting pretty nearly home today, but the wet stopped us. When we left Brighton this morning, we were certain of fine weather and yet did not get it. I forgot to say we did not call at Worthing as it was a mile or two out of our way. We had a very good view of it.
32 miles
Friday September 15
We were very well put up at the Bell and charged very moderately. The morning was splendidly fine and the wind in the east which was just where we wanted it. We had a look round the cathedral and at 9.20, we were in our saddles again and on the way to Portsmouth.
The roads, very much to our delighted astonishment, had dried up completely so that we could not have had them in better condition. We bowled along in grand style to Cosham and from there to Portsmouth we had to go rather slow. We had a little refreshment at the pier Southsea and then took the ferry to Gosport and left Gosport at 12.30 and over excellent roads we went at a good pace. The wind now changed a point and was still in our backs. At Meonstoke we had beer and biscuits and then off to Alton 4.25 and had tea at the Temperance Hotel. Left Alton at 5.15 and got home at 7.20. The road every yard of the way from Gosport was perfection and the weather today just what we wanted. The wind in all of the journey kept at our backs. The trip was quite a success and we both thoroughly enjoyed it. It cost 14/9 each the whole journey.
68 miles
Saturday September 16
Was all the fresher for my run and soon disposed of the orders and the customers. Mr Evans brought over the harness. I sent George to Arborfield for goods Bertha had bought at a sale over there yesterday. After that, he took the pony in to Wokingham and I went in on the bicycle to unpack the new trap from Bridgwater. Had a very good day.
11 miles
Sunday September 17
To Chapel in the morning and after dinner to B. Green where I had tea and then left directly for home.
30 miles
Monday September 18
Was up a little earlier and got on with the booking, which I did in time to go to the cricket match at Hazeley Heath. This was the return match for the one played here two weeks ago. This time, Hazeley Heath had Rob Blackburn and another good player from Hartley Row. We went in first and made 49 runs of which I made 10. Had dinner at the Fox and Hounds and then Hazeley Heath went in. White and I bowled. I took one wicket and one run out, and then we had a change of bowling which answered well, as we got our opponents out for 44, which left us the winners by 5 runs only. In the 2nd innings, only five of our men were out for over 40 runs. I came home a little after 6 and was just in time to see Henry who had come over to see me. Had a very good day in the shop. Weather excellent.
8 miles
Tuesday September 19
Was a very wet day. I called upon Mr Radford. Sent a cheque for the trap. George went to Wokingham.
Wednesday September 20
Mr Evans drove over and brought Katie for a day or two. Tried the harness on and the pony in the new trap. All suited well. Worked at the stable.
Thursday September 21
Did a little more to the stable after dinner but was soon called away by Miss Bartlett, so after attending to her, I went to Wokingham on some business.
11 miles
Friday September 22
Was up a little earlier and got up the orders. Had a pig in from Treveks. After dinner, I drove Bertha, Frances and Kate Evans in the new trap to Blackwater and through the RMC college grounds and then on to Sandhurst where we had tea at Mr Pigg’s. I ordered a few things off him. It was a very nice afternoon. When I came home, I did a very good strike of business.
Saturday September 23
Up a little earlier than usual and got off the orders. Bertha drove Kate Evans to Wokingham. I ground up the hind wheel bearing of the Matchless.
Sunday September 24
All to Wokingham to service. Took a walk in the afternoon, and after 10, Henry and I went to Twyford to see if John had come by GWR. But he had not so we at once came home.
23 miles
Monday September 25
Left here at quarter to 12 and made for Stratfield Turgis where I played in a cricket match for Eversley against Turgis. It was a very nice day. We went in first and only made 19 runs. I had no chance to score as I went in last but one and was not out. North was the destructive bowler who wrought their triumph. They, in their first innings, made 29. We then went in, I and another commencing the innings.
I played very well indeed and stayed while seven were out and made 10 runs which was by far the best innings and highest score of the day. Turgis then went in and made the runs to win with the loss of six or seven wickets. I caught three or four out, very good catches. During the morning, I had a knock on the head, so did not have any lunch. I very much enjoyed the game and was very pleased to be successful. Came straight home.
12 miles
Tuesday September 26
Kate Evans and Mary Walden came over yesterday for a day or two. They and Bertha walked to the sale at the Poplars, Farley Hill. John came over just before dinner after which he and I went to Wokingham and then to Twyford with Henry. Had tea at Twyford and then to Wokingham and had my hair cut. Home by moonlight.
24 miles
Wednesday September 27
Up and to Sandhurst for sample before breakfast. Called upon Hopkinson, West Court, to see if we could serve him with bread, but they had engaged with Beeching. However, I got the order for corn from them. New Mill Chapel was opened today and there was a tea meeting, and very well attended too. I went to Yateley to see Mr White.
14 miles
Thursday September 28
In the evening I went to Wokingham to see if Tom’s new machine was ready. It was so I took a run on it and found it go very well. Came home at half past 9.
11 miles
Friday September 29
Had two pigs from Mr White for which I paid him and also for a load of straw.
Saturday September 30
Had a very good day. Tom came over in the afternoon on the new omnicycle. We put it on the scales and found it pull 103 lb. He went back after tea.
1882
Sunday October 1
Mary Walden and Kate Evans being here, we did not drive to Wokingham as usual. After dinner, I went on the bicycle and took a walk with Tom. It came on to rain just as I was about to start for home, so I went to Chapel instead, when after supper I had a dry ride home.
11 miles
Monday October 2
Got on well with the booking. Tom came over in the morning on the new omnicycle and I rode it back, while he came on my bicycle. I found the Om run very free.
5 miles
Tuesday October 3
Left here at 12 o’clock to meet young Mr Salamon who was coming down to take the new machine up to his father at Clapham, but when I got to Wokingham, I found he had gone. Had dinner at the office. Came home through Sandhurst to order some barley. The dog from the Works and his mother came with me.
16 miles
Wednesday October 4
As Mr Sparvell shut up until Michaelmas, I do the same. After 4, I went to Wokingham.
11 miles
Thursday October 5
Bertha went to a sale at Stratfield Saye but did not purchase anything. Henry and Tom came over to tea.
Tom had a letter from Salamon wanting a five years contract.
There was a tea meeting on at Finchampstead, but only a very few went.
Friday October 6
Had two pigs from Mr Townsend. Mary Walden and Kate Evans went home. I called upon Mr Radford with his bill, then to Downham but found he had left.
5 miles
Saturday October 7
Had a good day.
Sunday October 8
All to Wokingham and I to Chapel. Had dinner at the shop. Henry and I went to Burchett’s Green to tea, and left directly after, and I was home to Eversley early. It was a very pretty run. I intended going to Hastings tomorrow, but this evening, my head was so bad, I put it off.
32 miles
Monday October 9
Was a splendid day. I went up to see Mrs Vernon but could not see her so wrote again over the bill, and this time got a reply.
Tuesday October 10
Up at 7 o’clock and off at 8 to the Well Coll to catch the 8.32 to Reigate so as to start from Reigate on the bicycle and make for Hastings via Cuckfield. I left Reigate at 10 o’clock and had a splendid run to Crawley, nine miles over a good road, broad and level, in fact a magnificent road, a little bit bumpy, but otherwise perfect. Passed on through Crawley, a quaint little town or village, on to Handcross.
The roads were good up to this point, but descended here into a wretched lane of a road, and a long downhill which was so rough and bumpy that it broke my handle bar in two. Now this happened four or five miles from a station and two and half from Cuckfield, so I walked to the latter place and got the bar shut at a wheelwrights.
I then had a lunch of bread and cheese and ale. From here, I intended to branch off for Hailsham, but could find no road, nor any directions. So acting on the advice of a person who has been by road to Hastings, I made for Lewes. I found the road very good with the exception of a mile or so until I turned in to the Lewes and East Grinstead road, which is an excellent road, but a little bumpy. It was past 3 when I got to Lewes, and by the time I had had tea, it was nearly 4, and not being time to get by road to Hastings under three or four hours, it would be dark before I could accomplish half the distance, so I made up my mind to train it, and did so, and got to Hastings a little past 6. I was very glad I took the train as the rain came on at 5 o’clock. It was a very dull day and not suited for travelling alone.
36 miles
Wednesday October 11
Was a wet day so after having a bathe in the baths, and a dinner, Ieft Hastings by the 2.40 and came to Blackwater by rail and so home by 7 o’clock.
6 miles
Thursday October 12
After tea, I took an order to Wokingham.
Friday October 13
Had four pigs in, and a very good sale for meat.
Saturday October 14
Was tolerably busy.
Sunday October 15
Went to Wokingham to Chapel. Home by 6 o’clock.
Monday October 16
Was at the booking all day.
Tuesday October 17
Was at the booking all day.
Wednesday October 18
The first Wednesday of keeping open until 8 o’clock.
Thursday October 19
Found the little kitten dead this morning. While I was cleaning out the magpie cage, I put him in the workshop and I suppose he got out at the matches, for shortly after, he died poor chap. I sorted over the [illegible].
Friday October 20
Had the pig from Mr Townsend.
Saturday October 21
Was a very good day indeed so far as business went.
Sunday October 22
Bertha, Frances and I walked to the College and got caught in a very heavy rain. I went to Chapel. Bertha and I came home via the College and left Frances at Wokingham.
Monday October 23
Bertha went to Wokingham and thence to Reading to have her teeth seen to and to settle a few bills. There was a tea meeting at New Mill to which James came and slept here.
Tuesday October 24
It was a very wet day.
Wednesday October 25
In the afternoon, I went over and saw Mr Nash about Vernon’s. In the evening, I went to Mr Pigg’s and paid him, and ordered a lot of goods. Stayed to supper and gave them a few pieces of recitation, much to their delight.
20 miles
Thursday October 26
George went to Hook to see Cap. Young about his omnicycle advertised in yesterday’s Bazaar. He drove over taking Bertha and Frances. Cap. Young was not at home so could not deal for the machine. I turned the granary around ready for the corn.
Saturday October 28
Sent George to Cap. Young again, but again he was out.
Monday October 30
Went to Wokingham yesterday. Sent George to Cap. Young and this time he brought home the omnicycle for £10.0.0. A very wet day.
Tuesday October 31
After hours, I took the omnicycle to pieces to clean it.
1882
Friday November 3
Went to Wokingham on the omnicycle. Met Henry coming over here so he turned back with me. Saw Mr Garrett about coal. Had a look around the Fair. Very rough coming home.
11 miles
Sunday November 5
Went to Wokingham on the omnicycle. Bertha and Frances went yesterday.
11 miles
Monday November 6
I was on at booking all day. George went in to Wokingham in the evening for the night.
Tuesday November 7
Bertha and Frances came home. At 6 o’clock, I went into Wokingham to see the circus (Ginnett’s). It was a rather poor turn out and uncommonly wet. Saw Mary and George Woods there and sat next to them. I got home at 11 o’clock.
11 miles – Om
Wednesday November 8
Was on at the stable work.
Thursday November 9
Nearly finished the stable. In the evening I went into Wokingham and back just for the run.
11 miles – Om
Friday November 10
Had a £10.0.0 note from Hannon’s and a £50.0.0 from Vernon’s which came in very acceptable. The morning was beautifully fine so I sent Bertha to Wokingham for some meat. She was unfortunately caught in a heavy shower. After dinner, I started off on the omnicycle for Burchett’s Green via Arborfield. Had the roads very good up to Twyford, but from there they were very muddy. At Burchett’s Green, I found Edwin and Ernest at home, much to my surprise as I was not aware that Ernest had left America. Mr and Mrs Micklem were in great anxiety about James who is staying there for a day or two, he having gone for a walk this morning and not turned up by 5 o’clock. We had a comfortable tea, and then Master James dropped in having been to Wycombe. I had a dirty ride home via Wokingham for it had rained while I was at Burchett’s Green.
30 miles – Om
Saturday November 11
Was a rattling good day for business.
Sunday November 12
Up and washed the trap and sent Bertha and Frances to Wokingham. I then put the new bar to my bicycle and then made it to Blackwater through the College grounds to Crowthorne and thence through the Well Coll grounds to Ravenswood and Wokingham. Roads very good. At a little after 4 o’clock, we started home, Ernest Micklem riding with Bertha.
20 miles – B
Monday November 13
Was very busy. George and Ernest went to Wokingham at 5 o’clock. Mr Ryder came in to supper and paid. Mr Henry Barker also paid, so that altogether I took £30.
Tuesday November 14
Bought 15 qts oats off Mr Pigg at 23/3. Went to Wokingham to hear Mr Garrett’s lecture and to take in some money and gold and an order.
11 miles – Om
Wednesday November 15
Henry came over this morning so we had a little dinner, and then off for a ride to Old Basing. The roads were in excellent order and the weather fine and bright. We went over the church which was open. A very fine old church of the Norman build. After this, we inspected the ruins of Basing House and were very much pleased with our visit there. We came home via Hook and Hartley Row. This was a very pleasant run out.
24 miles – B
Thursday November 16
Was a very different day, for when I got up the roads were covered with snow. During the day, it melted off. George being out, I set out the shop.
Friday November 17
Rev Bent gave a lecture illustrated by dissolving views to which Bertha and Frances went.
Sunday November 19
Bertha, Frances and George by trap to Wokingham. I on the tricycle via Nine Mile Ride.
Tom and I went for a walk in the afternoon, when he told me about the arrangement with Mr Salamon over which he was very pleased.
12 miles – Om
Monday November 20
Was at the booking all day. George went to Wokingham.
Tuesday November 21
Henry and Geo Woods came over on omnicycles this afternoon.
Wednesday November 22
Went to Wokingham at 3 o’clock, then by the 4.50 to Reading and bought a ledger, 7/6, and a pair of books, 12/6. Paid Martin’s account and home by the 6.50. Had a cup of tea at the office, settled Shaw’s bill. Ordered a lamp off Knight. Paid Mr Heron etc and home about half past 9.
11 miles – Om
Thursday November 23
Was quite out of sorts so stayed indoors all the evening. Gave Staples an order, and paid them, also Lawes.
Sunday November 26
Bertha, George and Frances by trap to Wokingham. I put a mud guard on my omnicycle before going and so got to Wokingham a little after 12 o’clock. Dinner at the office and a walk in the afternoon. We all stayed to Chapel in the evening. Frances stayed at the office.
11 miles – Om
Monday November 27
Bertha went to Reading to see Dr Wells and also Mr Harvey.
Tuesday November 28
Bertha drove in to Wokingham. She took cheques for the bank and one for the shop. Frank Micklem came over on his omnicycle for a day over.
Wednesday November 29
After dinner, I went to Wokingham on Frank’s machine, to attend to the shop door hinges, and was at work at them until late. Slept at the office.
6 miles
Thursday November 30
Finished the shop door hinges. Ordered a black coat and waistcoat off Mr Green. Had my hair cut.
1882
Sunday December 3
I was too late for the Chapel so stayed and mended the pony’s stable and then went in to dinner. It came on to rain after dinner, so we came home early in the wet.
11 miles
Wednesday December 6
Bertha and I drove to Wokingham in the snow and had a cold ride. We came home after dinner.
Sunday December 10
The roads were hard with frost and a heavy rime on the trees. The road went very well for the Om but very rough. I stayed to evening service. We left Frances at Wokingham.
11 miles – Om
Monday December 11
I went to Wokingham on the Om and bought some cloth, 8 yds for 31/-, at Heelas. Brought it home with me.
11 miles
Tuesday December 12
The frost went away. Bertha and Mr Halfacre went to Wokingham and back.
Sunday December 17
I drove Bertha in to Wokingham and we went to Chapel. Came home directly after tea, and brought Frances with us.
Monday December 18
Bertha and I went to Wokingham after dinner to see some cloth for a great coat and also get some for an everyday shop coat.
Sunday December 24
Was a nice frosty morning and so I went in on the omnicycle, while Bertha, Frances and George drove. We did not get in in time for Chapel. After dinner, Henry and I had a very pleasant run around Easthampstead. Bertha and I went to Chapel in the evening. George went back to Eversley with the pony and trap. We slept at the office.
Monday December 25 – Xmas Day
Drizzly, wet, muggy and warm. I went to see old Hill in the morning. George drove over and went back for the evening. Jamie bought a clown dress and we had an entertainment with it. I went over to the shop and pleased the children with it.
Tuesday December 26
I came home this morning as we were baking again as usual. George was out all day at the New Inn. Having promised to go through a little performance at the shop, I concocted a little piece to say.
Wednesday December 27
George drove to York Town to get some clothes for the Blackbirds. Directly he came home, I left for Wokingham.
Annie had altered my merryman’s clothes and made me a hat, and Bertha got a pair of red stockings. I now went to the shop and got a box and some crockery to make a noise with. There was a party on there, with 6 o’clock dinner. We sat down to a splendid spread. At about half past 6, I went upstairs and arrayed myself out in the clown suit and came I in with a rush and a noise with pulling the box of crockery down. I went through the piece very much to the satisfaction and amusement of all. We kept the party up until 3 o’clock. It was a capital one throughout.
6 miles – Om
Thursday December 28
I came home. As Charles was driving out of the yard, he drove into a carriage which was passing and broke the lamp and the window, but fortunately missed the panelling and paint. I went to Wokingham at half past 6, to hear the Blackbirds. It was a very poor turnout this time but there was a large company of spectators. After the performance, I called in at the office and had supper and then off home which I was very glad to reach, for the road was terribly bad and bumpy.
Friday December 29
There was another performance of the Blackbirds, so George did not come home today. Bertha drove Annie into Wokingham.
Sunday December 31
Bertha and I drove into Wokingham just in time for dinner and left again at half past 4.
Today was like most of the days of this year, dull and damp. Although we have not had the incessant rain of the previous year, yet there has been very little, very little indeed of bright sunny weather. Of wind, there has been almost an incessant gale from April to December. On the whole it has been anything but enjoyable weather. I hope 1883 will be better. Nothing very special has happened to any of us this year. May the Lord be with us all to direct us safely through the coming 1883.
Totals:
| 1882 | 3,404 miles |
| 1881 | 1,674 miles |
| 1880 | 3,280 miles |
| 1879 | 1,381 miles |
| 1877 | 2,513 miles |
| 12,252 miles |
Edwin Butler Diaries 