The year of our Lord 1884
Tuesday January 1
The old year closed and this opened with very mild weather, exceedingly dirty but not altogether uncomfortable. The takings for the past year are the best we have had at Eversley, but the prospect for this year is not at all encouraging. A good many of our customers have gone away and trade is very quiet. Everything except butter and cheese is very cheap.
Thursday January 3
George and I drove to Wokingham and brought back a load of goods before dinner. In the evening at half past 7, Bertha, Frances and I went to an entertainment at the school when I gave ‘The Bachelor’s Dream’ to a somewhat appreciative audience. I have got the bills out quickly this year, having delivered nearly all.
Monday January 7
I commenced stocktaking and nearly finished the job by 9 o’clock, leaving only an hour or so work for tomorrow.
Wednesday January 9
After dinner I took the pony to Wokingham and the trap I did up for them. I had a long talk with Henry over the business affairs. Bertha came in with Rodney to bring me back. We did not leave Wokingham until past 9 o’clock, when we brought Eva back with us for her to be here on Frances’ birthday. I bought a suit of black cloth which Mrs Sale had for 7/-.
Thursday January 10
Paid Bringham’s. Went to Sandhurst with Bertha in the afternoon to see if she could pick up anything cheap from Young’s, the place where the suit of black came from. She was unable to. Called in at Pigg’s and ordered a sack of corn. As it was Frances’ birthday, she had a kind of party comprised of Eva, Laura Merch and Mrs Halfacre. I put on my merryman suit and pleased them. George went to West Court party. Jamie came over and stayed the night.
Sunday January 14
Bertha, Frances and I to Wokingham by trap, Kennedy on foot. Denham was at the office with a friend. Tea at Geo Woods’ and to Chapel in the evening when [word missing] preached. After the service, Jamie Watts asked me to entertain the children at the British School on Tuesday week.
Monday January 15
Bertha to Wokingham.
Tuesday January 16
After dinner, I went to Wokingham by trap and to Reading by the 3.46. Bought a pair of boots at Fean’s for 12/-. Called in at Lewis’ to see about a magic lantern for the school treat next week. As I was going in to Wokingham, I met with Tom coming over to see me.
Thursday January 17
Was up rather earlier and off to Wokingham by 8.20 so as to catch an early train to Reading for the County Court. However, I was too late for the 9 o’clock train and there was not another until 10.36 so that I was a little late at the Court, and my case being first, I missed my opportunity and so had to wait for an hour or so. Went to Minnie’s to dinner. Came back by the 5 o’clock train.
Saturday January 19
Yesterday, the Rev Edge called in and asked me to give a recitation at the school on Tuesday – I should say Thursday – so I promised to give the Black Job, but this morning I received a letter from Mr Watts to say that as the British School was engaged by a converted Jew for a lecture on Tuesday evening, the entertainment for the children was put off until Thursday, and as this clashed with the meeting here, I wrote to Rev Edge to excuse me from the meeting here. Tom came over yesterday to have a talk over the omnicycle.
Sunday January 20
Was a very beautiful morning, the weather was bright and cheerful and the roads in perfect order, like a pavement. Bertha and Frances agreed to walk in while Eva and I drove in the old trap. As we were going by St John’s gate, Kennedy came by on his bicycle and Rodney immediately started off full rate and sent up his heels and broke the shaft, so I turned back and met Frances and Bertha just starting, so we changed traps and put Rodney in the new one. At the Chapel we overtook Bertha and Frances, when she got up and I got down and walked across the meadow to the White Horse, when we all rode in. Bertha met Henry by Wetherall out on his bicycle. After dinner, I went across to the shop and borrowed Henry’s tricycle and took a run down Star Lane to Holme Green, by the Crooked Billet, up to Col. Peel, down the new road by the Leg of Mutton and thence by the London Road home. I got along very slowly, but still I enjoyed it. It made me very tender and tired. Went to Chapel and heard Professor Berlyn, the Jew.
Tuesday January 22
Bertha and I went to Wokingham to arrange about the meeting for Thursday. Bertha went to Heelas and got some striped stuff and took it to Green to get him to cut it out for a bobtail coat. She then put it together and made a fine fit of it. We stayed until late making one thing and another.
Wednesday January 23
There was a shooting match on down at the New Inn. In the evening, I went down for George and he came up and practiced his song.
Thursday January 24
Bertha and I in the trap and George and Frances in the cart with Dick to Wokingham by 11 o’clock. I called in at Tom and got him to go to Reading for the slide and fix up the necessary fitting at the school. It took me all day to arrange the different things. I had tea at Mrs Rainbow’s. The tea at the school not commencing until 5 o’clock, Tom had all his work cut out to get the stage and screen up in time. I was also a little bit late, so that when I got to the school, I found the room full and the time half past 6. However, it didn’t take me long to get ready, thanks to James’ prompt action. The programme of the evening consisted of an overture by the band, a stump oration by Mr Ebony Pedro on all the sciences both ancient and modern and a lot more too in which he related the adventures of Uncle Joe on the fatal consequences of [illegible].
Then the band gave another selection which was followed by dissolving views illustrating the life of Robinson Crusoe, whose diverting history was sung by the great man. This was preceded by views and scenes described with plenty of rhyme and no reason, concluding with the appearance of Mr R. Crusoe on how to get a readymade suit. The whole of the performance went off memorably well, George’s song being received with applause and encore. The room being so crowded, I had a great difficulty in keeping up my voice. I didn’t feel in the least nervous and did not have any slip or breakdown.
It was a quarter to 9 before the meeting broke up and then I was too tired to go home, so Bertha, Frances and I slept at the office while George, with Dick, went home with a load of goods from the shop.
Friday January 25
Went down to settle with Tom with the lantern but he would not take anything, he stood the whole experience of that. Bertha and I went down to see Mrs Saddler and had a pleasant hour down there. Got £30 from the shop for Wixenford and came home at 5 o’clock in a severe storm.
Saturday January 26
Was a gale blowing all day which increased to a most terrific gale towards evening. It was so exceedingly rough that scarcely anyone could get out and we here, and at Wokingham, were exceedingly slack, almost deserted.
Sunday January 27
Just as we were getting ready to go to Wokingham, down came a snow storm which lasted about an hour. This detained us until past 12 o’clock when we went in and had dinner at the Post Office and an early tea and then home.
Tuesday January 29
I went to Wokingham by the carrier and back on an omnicycle Tom lent me. While I was at Wokingham, Henry went to Turgis to buy some hogs off Mr D. Dixon, but he was at Reading and telegraphed to Henry at Wokingham. It was very slow work coming home. The wind was against me and I was not used to the work.
6 miles
1884
Sunday February 3
To Wokingham and to Chapel, Bertha with the trap and I on the omnicycle. The roads were very good, except where they were graveled. After dinner, I went to Binfield and round by the Warren House. To Geo Woods to tea and to Chapel in the evening, L.S. Paid my subscription to the Missionary Society 10/-. We came home late. George Sale went to Reading on Saturday and thence to Wokingham where he slept. He came back with Bertha.
15 miles
Monday February 4
Went a short run on the Om, about two miles.
Wednesday February 6
Was up a bit earlier and had breakfast, and then George drove me to the Well College in time for the 8.32 up. Had a very good ride up in a good 2nd Class carriage.
Directly, I got out at Cannon Street, I made for the Floral Hall, Covent Garden, to see the Stanley Bicycle and Tricycle Show. Paid my shilling and passed in, and was disappointed with the show. There was not anything like enough room and scarcely any bicycles, and nothing new in those. It was nothing like so nice as at the Albert Hall last year. I came up to see if there was anything new in the bicycle line, but as I say, there was a very poor arrangement of them and nothing to my taste.
During the hour and a half I was there, I went round several times and collected a list from nearly every stand. I then left and went straight to Drury Lane Theatre where there was a midday pantomime on. So I went in at the pit entrance at the early hour and paid 2/6 and got a very good seat. The piece was ‘Cinderella’ and a long piece it was, for it was much past 5 when I came out and so I made for tea which I had at the Coffee Tavern next door to Exeter Hall. Very good and very reasonable. I came home by the last down SER which was very slow indeed. Arrived at the College at 10, walked up the hill and met George with the pony and trap. Had a good moonlight ride home.
Thursday February 7
Was called upon to attend the inquest on Mr Jenkins who was run over and killed, but I was excused. I went in the morning to Pigg’s farm to see some oats and in the afternoon to Mr Crate where I bought 15 qtr at 21/-. In the evening, I went up to the schools to an entertainment where I gave ‘The Black Job’.
Friday February 8
Bertha went to Wokingham and brought home Frances. I took a run round about the Flats.
8 miles – Om
Sunday February 10
Bertha, Frances and I by trap to Wokingham. We were too late for the morning service. We went to Geo Woods to tea and to Chapel in the evening, Bertha to the Wesleylian and I to the Baptist’s where a gentleman from Guildford preached. Having to wait for the moon, we were very late home, and were hindered by the back tree breaking about a mile and half from Wokingham. I cobbled it up and drove slowly home.
Monday February 11
After doing the booking, I commenced putting the granary in order and stopping the rat from coming in.
Tuesday February 12
Had a good day at the granary and put things in with a little [word missing].
Wednesday February 13
After dinner, Bertha and I drove to Wokingham. I paid Sale and Tom and Miss Fuller. Had my hair cut.
Thursday February 14
Was just going for a run when James came in and informed me the goods were on the road, so I waited for them and unloaded and sent back 2 sks potatoes, and then off on the Om to the Flats and had a smoke. When I came back, I found Mr Sale and Jamie here, they having come over to stay the evening. Just as I had finished putting the little granary tidy, Mr Ryder came in and paid his book up to 1884. About 9 o’clock, he came in again when we had supper and after, a few rounds of whist. Quite a merry evening.
8 miles – Om
Friday February 15
Bertha drove Mr Sale in about 10 o’clock, Jamie having gone on foot with Eva. Bertha came back with Frances, bringing change for Wixenford.
Sunday February 17
Was up round too late to think about getting in time for service, so I did not hurry. Bertha Frances and I got in about 12 o’clock. Having got a step for my bicycle from the CM Company, I put it on, and then after dinner, I mounted the bicycle and went round Hurst. The roads were excellent (except where graveled) and the afternoon was briskly cool with a strong east wind. I got along very much better than I expected and quite enjoyed the run round. Had tea at Rainbow’s and then off home, Bertha and Eva in the trap and I on the bicycle. We got home just as it was getting dark. I came home easier and quicker than I expected.
14 miles – B
Monday February 18
After dinner, I went a very nice run. The roads were white and dry and the weather bright, but there was a strong east wind. I should have gone to Basingstoke only I was afraid the wind would punish me coming back, so I went to Wokingham instead. I took the road to the College, and thence on nearly to Broadmoor, turned off to Col. Peel’s, and up Star Lane. I noticed a great many trees blown down in the fir plantation just this side of Whyman’s, I think more than I have ever seen in so short a space. I called at Geo Woods’, but he was out. Had tea at the office, and home the usual route. At the N.M. Ride, I met Henry and Kemp who had been for a long run round on velocipedes. Got home here at 6 o’clock. I immediately set about setting out the case in the shop, and made a nice tidy job of it. Mr Sale and Jamie came over about 7 o’clock, having had a telegram to Radford’s.
14 miles – B
Thursday February 19
I sent George to Basingstoke to put Glazier’s case in the County Court, and then in from there to Denham’s to see if he could do anything with his account.
Wednesday February 20
George came home about 2 o’clock from Basingstoke.
Thursday February 21
As George and Bertha were going in to Wheeler’s on the way home, George was thrown out of the cart and damaged his nose.
Sunday February 24
Frances, Eva and Mary Bird walked in to Wokingham. Bertha and I drove. Went for a walk after dinner with Tom round the Dog and Duck. Came home directly after tea which I had at Geo Woods’. George came home drunk.
Monday February 25
Being a nice kind of day, and the road tolerably good, I made up my mind for a run to Basingstoke. Did a good morning’s work and got all ready to start at 3 o’clock, when Miss Bartlett came in and detained me for a few minutes, so that it was 20 minutes past 3 according to Greenwich ere I left. Made my way by Wixenford, where I saw the young gents at football. From there to the Monument the wind was dead against me and rather strong too, so that when I turned into the Basingstoke road, it came a little more sideways which was better. At Basingstoke I had ham and coffee for -/8 at the Coffee Tavern. Left Basingstoke at 5.40 and had a capital ride to Hartley Row before the wind. From H. Row home it was dark, so I proceeded with caution and so came home all right and sound. Mrs Wells was waiting to see me about her account, but I could come to no arrangement with her.
I was very pleased with my run today, for as I say, the journey to Basingstoke was against a strong NW wind and I not only got the machine along at a fairly good pace, but rode it up all the hills there except the Monument and the one beyond John Butler’s. My broken leg gave me no inconvenience and did its duty well.
26 miles – B
Tuesday February 26
Was a most splendid day. It began with a kind of fog which about 9 o’clock cleared off and came out bright, warm and calm. This so filled me with a spirit for roving, that I knocked off what I had to do, and Bertha got me a splendid mutton chop which I put away by 12 o’clock, and a few minutes after, mounted my bicycle and got to Wokingham at quarter to 1, and called upon Henry to see if he would go for a run. As luck would have it, he had arranged with Geo Woods for a run and so had dinner earlier. Mr Teed, of Teed and Bishop, hindered him until half past 1, and then he, Geo Woods and I started off for Fleet. We could do nothing for a long time but talk about the glorious weather. It certainly was most wonderful for February, and much we enjoyed it.
George brought his field glass, and when we came to an eminence, we surveyed the scenery with it, but I must say I preferred the beauty of the landscape more without the glass than with. They are very useful to define clearly near objects, such as birds in trees etc. but they somewhat mar a beautiful landscape, for the beauty of the scenery, I think, is in its indistinctness and quick amalgamation of one object with another. It does not want each object of the scenery to be sharply defined but rather for the whole to be toned down into one general picture, leaving the imagination to fill up the detail.
At Fleet Pond, we rested for about quarter of an hour, when Henry from his multum which he had attached to the Salvo he was riding, supplied us with apples and biscuits. From the pond it was 10 and a half miles to Eversley the way we came and that was by the line as far as the bridge where the road turns off for Farnborough where we stuck to the left and came through Hawley and thence straight to Eversley. George and Henry came round to tea and then they left for home just in time to get there in the light. I, and I think the other two, enjoyed the run immensely. The roads are very good except for a few patches of gravel. There was no wind and the weather was like summer. I gave Henry a few cheques to take in. After tea, I made a ladder for the hay loft. Barker brought home another squirrel for 2/-.
26 miles – B
Wednesday February 27
After dinner, I went to Sandhurst on the bicycle to take Mr Hy Mearing his club money. After a few minutes conversation, I left and made my way to R.M. College, and then just as I had turned in to the Yorktown road, I saw a few boys playing in the middle of the road, so I rang the bell and shouted to let them know I was coming, when just as I was nearly parallel with them, one of the little rascals caught sight of the bicycle and immediately made for my side of the road, and instead of running in an upright position, he seemed in a kind of nightmare and scrambled along on all fours and dashed into my front wheel, which set me a header over the handles and very much bruised my broken knee, but otherwise did not scratch or shake me for I was not over five miles an hour at the time of the accident. Getting up, I found the boy in tears but I am afraid not much hurt.
The bicycle had the left hand handle bar bent and a spoke broken off close to the rim. A friend tied this up and another held the machine while I mounted and then I made for home without a stop. Bertha and Eva who had gone to Wokingham this morning had not returned, so I bathed my leg in hot water and sent to Seymour for some Elliman’s embrocation and gave it a thorough rubbing. Bertha and Eva came home directly after tea. She had been to Reading and paid Lovejoy’s and bought several little things.
12 miles – B
Thursday February 28
I mended the bicycle and put the handle straight. I also made a little affair under the lamp to carry the oil can and a place under the saddle for the spanner.
Friday February 29
Bertha and Eva went to Wokingham for Frances via Sandhurst. George went a part of the way and walked home. Mr Sale came in to tea and brought Mr Allen.
1884
Saturday March 1
Got the orders up and off and everything straight before dinner and after I went to Wokingham on the bicycle to get £30 change for Wixenford. It was very cold, the wind being in the N.E. I got back about half past 5. Had a very good day.
11 miles – B
Sunday March 2
It was a beautiful bright, dry, cold morning, so I went in on the bicycle and Bertha, Eva and Frances by trap. I went via Easthampstead and had a very good run in. After dinner, Henry and I went round Hurst, taking the road by Tom Neays and on to Billingbear to Dr. Nichol’s corner, back by Hurst church and the Reading road and so home. We very much enjoyed this little run. It was such a splendid afternoon, bright, calm and beautiful. These little runs are worth a lot. Henry pointed out to me, the house Grandfather used to live in. I had tea at Mr Rainbow’s and then came home. It was a nice ride here, such a beautiful evening. We are having some grand weather and no mistake about it. Jamie rode back with Bertha and Eva. I left some cheques at the shop.
22 miles – B
Sunday March 9
We have had two or three days of wet last week and the roads have not been in a fit condition for bicycling. Today is a nice fine day and the roads are drying up, but they are not good enough for riding today. Eva and I walked in while Bertha and Frances came after in the trap. We got as far as the Nine Mile Ride before they overtook us. Then Eva got up and Frances came in with me. It was a pleasant walk.
Friday March 14
Henry and Kemp called in on their way to Mr Tull’s to see about his pigs. They were on velocipedes. On their way back, they called in again which was just before 8 o’clock.
Saturday March 15
There were very few orders and these few I very quickly knocked off and got the shop straight, and then, as it was such a beautifully bright sunshiny day and the roads in such perfect order, I mounted my bicycle and directed my course to Blackwater against a stiff breeze, and from there to Hawley and on to Fleet, and home over the Flats at half past 1. Enjoyed the run amazingly.
18 miles – B
Sunday March 16
I didn’t feel in the best of health and by the time I had cleaned the trap for Bertha, I, like the prodigal son, began to be in want, and so I had a glass of ale and a biscuit, and then off on the bicycle to Well College, and on by Broadmoor to Easthampstead Church where I had a few minutes rest and sat down under the yew tree and had a cigarette. What a glorious morning it was – bright, sunny and cheerful and so warm.
At 12 o’clock I left the church and made my way to Bracknell. Just after the church, there is a log of wood in a garden exactly like a man stooping down. Passed through Bracknell and on to Wokingham. Had dinner at the office. At half past 3, Henry and I left for Burchett’s Green via Bill Hill. Had a fine run over there before the wind in 55 minutes. There were at home, Mr and Mrs Micklem, Frank and William Arrowsmith. We left B. Green at 6 o’clock, the wind having entirely gone down to a calm, and a beautiful calm, too. We came home via Twyford and Hurst in one hour. I was very tired when we got to Wokingham and so rested for a quarter hour and then had a nice quiet run home.
48 miles – B
Tuesday March 18
Bertha drove to Wokingham taking Frances back to school.
Wednesday March 19
John, who came to Wokingham yesterday, came over with Henry on a bicycle. They stayed a short time and then went off. After dinner, I started off for a run to Guildford, but when I had got a little past the Railways at Farnham, I turned home again via Frimley, as the wind was very high and it threatened for rain. I posted up the Wednesday evening closing notices today.
20 miles
Thursday March 20
Nothing particular excepting that George went out with the pony and trap for a half hour, and as per usual was gone nearly three.
Saturday March 22
Called upon Mr Venn.
Sunday March 23
Left Eversley at 11 0’clock and went to R.M. College via Moor Green and the new road and then on to Bagshot and to Wokingham via Bracknell. It was a bright morning, but much too windy for pleasant riding. I went to sleep all the afternoon. Rodney has had a very nasty knock in the eye.
25 miles – B
Monday March 24
Got my booking done and then washed the cart and went the Eversley Cross journey, and was back here at quarter past 2.
Tuesday March 25
Cranked Henry’s bicycle handle bar. While I was at it, he and W. Rainbow came over in the trap. They took a long walk and came back here to a meat tea and then home. About half past 2, I started off for a run again directing my course, as last week, to Guildford, and this time getting there. There was a wind which was principally against me going there, so that it took me two hours 20 minutes to get to the Angel stables. Had tea at the British Workman – two eggs and tea 1/6. Left Guildford at half past 6 and came back over the ridges which were in a very loose and stony condition. However, with a breeze at my back, I came along at a good pace. The hill leading from the Flats to the canal and railway was in a fearful condition for bicycling and I was thankful to get safely to the bottom. There is a new railway in course of construction at Guildford. I bought some sulphate of zinc for the pony’s eye. Although the road is very bad indeed via the Flats, I hope to go over it again as the view is worth a good deal of work. Miss Edith Mercer came to stay a day or two with us. The road is exceptionally good from Farnborough to Guildford via Ash and Normandy. Mr Mercer called in and settled his account.
40 miles – B
Wednesday March 26
Finished off Henry’s handle bar. Henry came over with some change for Wixenford and brought W. Rainbow. They came on tricycles. As soon as they were gone, Bertha and George went to Wokingham with the pony to see Allen about his eye.
Thursday March 27
I walked to Wokingham and Winkworth came with Dick. Having received by this morning’s post a letter from Geo Woods to say the command list was still open, I drove the shop pony over to Jenkin’s new residence to acquaint him that he could pay off his mortgage. We had quite a load of goods back and did not get home until 8 o’clock.
Friday March 28
Kennedy came over to say Mr Jenkins would be at the shop today, so I arranged to meet him there, to do which I left here directly after dinner.
Sunday March 30
I went to Wokingham via Barkham. A nice bright warm morning. Henry and I had tea at quarter past 4, and about half past 4, we started off on our bicycles down the London Road by Mr Knight’s and Carrington’s farm, on through Binfield by the old church and so on to Waltham where we took the road to the right by Hewett’s and towards Hawthorn Hill before we arrived at which we turned back to the left and came out at White Waltham, or rather Shottesbrooke, and then round to White Waltham church. Here in the quaint old fashioned village, we spent a few pleasant minutes and took a stroll round the church yard. On one of the pave stones, where a boy of 13 was buried was the following verse:
What though no mother listens home Was there to close thine eyes Or smother thy pillow, Care was there And angels hovered nigh. They bore thee to thy Father’s home Thy heavenly home. To spend A bright and glorious holiday Dear boy, that none shall end.
Leaving the old church, we walked through the village and then came straight home.
26 miles – B
Monday March 31
After dinner, I went to Wokingham and from there to Winnersh to see Mr Jenkins. He was not at home so Henry is going up tonight to see him for him to settle of the mortgage. Then Henry will send the money on to the Command Cr. at once. As I was driving up the hill from Little Mill, I saw an awful sight, a man topping some pollards so that they should shoot out again with a brand new head like a flower. He was working as though he deserved his meal and ought not to have the sack.
11 miles
1884
Wednesday April 2
First day of the early closing this season and a splendid day it has been too. Bright and windy during the day and at 4 o’clock, almost a calm. Bertha drove to Wokingham for change for Wixenford, and also to see Frances. At 5 o’clock, I started for a run and went by Eversley church to Bramshill House and on nearly to the Monument, and turned to the R for Mattingley to which place the roads were perfection. From Mattingley I turned off to Hazeley Heath and thence to Hartley Row and Yateley, Blackwater and home. It was the best run I have had this season. From a mile this side of Hazeley Heath until I got home, I did not make a dismount, riding up Star Hill.
19 miles
Thursday April 3
Bertha went to Sparvell’s to tea and in the evening, I went up. After spending a pleasant evening, Mr Thos. Sparvell very kindly drove us home. I sent Barker to Wokingham for goods.
Friday April 4
Tom walked over and had tea here and took the velocipede back. Several at James Wheeler’s have the smallpox.
Sunday April 6
To Wokingham and to Chapel. To Rainbow’s to tea where we saw Tom’s grand display of silver. After tea, I went round Hurst for a run. The country is just breaking out into verdure and beginning to put on its spring suit.
20 miles
Tuesday April 8
We had an early dinner and then Bertha and Eva drove to Yorktown via Yateley while I followed on the bicycle via Finchampstead where I called upon Mr Goddard about his bill. At Mr Over’s we bought a suit of clothes, a table clock etc. Going through Sandhurst, I called in and paid Mr Pigg and bought 10 qtr maize @ 27/6. We got back about 4 o’clock and had tea by 5, then I went off to Wokingham and took some money in for the bank and a cheque for the shop. Called upon Geo Woods to see him about Glazier where I saw James who was full of business respecting his lodgings. Paid Dalley and Spencer. I called upon Mrs Parker about her account and wrote Mr Thick and Mr Geo White.
26 miles
Wednesday April 9
Paid Mr Clover. At 4 o’clock, Henry came over and had tea and then off for a run. Went straight to Fleet, round to Winchfield, across the Basingstoke Road to Mattingley thence to the Monument and home, Henry going via the Cross. It was a very nice run and we enjoyed it. The weather was warm, bright and calm and the road perfection. How pretty the country is beginning to look.
18 miles
Thursday April 10
I was very sick during the after part of the day and was unable to do much work. I sent to Wokingham for goods and also Bertha and Eva drove and brought Frances back in place of Eva. Mr Ryder called in and settled his bill.
Friday April 11 – Good Friday
Bertha, George and Eva drove to Wokingham. I was occupied until half past 12 putting the shop straight and ready for Saturday. I then went to Wokingham. After dinner, I went across to see Tom but he was gone to Finchampstead with a whole gang including all from the shop. A little after 3, I went off on my bicycle to Burchett’s Green via Bill Hill. Found Mr and Mrs and Frank at home and had a nice tea, and then off to Henley. From the Henley road, I ran down to Hurley just to have a look round the old fishing grounds. I found they were putting up a new bridge in place of the old wooden one. There is a farmyard and building composed of the relic of a Roman Catholic monastery. Rev Weatherhead is a clergyman of the place.
From Hurley I came home through Wargrave and I had no sooner got clear of the village when the handlebar of the bicycle broke in two, so I had to walk to Twyford where I got a rod of iron and fixed it on the head in place of the broken bar and so came home without handles.
Had supper at the office and then we all came home together. The weather was a little dull, but on the whole, a capital day with scarcely any wind. The roads of course were good. I enjoyed the day fairly well.
40 miles
Sunday April 13
To Wokingham and to Chapel. Strong wind from the N.W. kept me from going further.
11 miles
Monday April 14 – Bank Holiday
Nasty, cold rainy day. Spent the morning at home. Had dinner at the office and came home directly after tea. One of the worst Bank Holidays I have had.
11 miles
Tuesday April 15
Eva came over with the carrier and brought Margaret Vipond with her.
Wednesday April 16
Just before 4 o’clock, Henry came over, so we had tea and about 5 o’clock and a little before the threatening weather, we mounted our bikes and made for Sandhurst via Finchampstead, thence on through the R.M.C. grounds to the left up Cambridge Town, straight on and through Bagshot to Sunningdale station, where we made our first dismount and stayed a few minutes, and then off again to Virginia Water, Sunninghill, Ascot, Bracknell and Wokingham. I had supper at the shop and home to Eversley by quarter past 9. Although the weather sometimes looked like rain, we had none and we both very much enjoyed the run, especially as there was scarcely any wind to trouble us. They are not the best of roads that way being especially bumpy from Sunningdale station to Bracknell. The run home from Wokingham was the darkest I have had for a year or more. I have observed a great quantity of blackthorn out in blossom this year. Bertha and George drove to Basingstoke with Rodney to take out a judgment summons and execution against Glazier. They returned just before we started on our run.
30 miles
Thursday April 17
It was intensely cold with a cutting N.E. wind, and I knew it having to drive Rodney to Wokingham for goods.
Went in to see James who has been taken very bad today, having had several bad fits.
Sunday April 20
All of us to Wokingham but not in time for Chapel. After tea, I went to Hurst, Twyford and Sonning. Had about a quarter of an hour in the churchyard, and then back by the lanes to Sandford Mill, and again by the lanes to Bill Hill and home.
26 miles
Monday April 21
Jack Collass came and commenced work in the garden. I was nearly all the morning repairing the barn, and the rest of the day putting a new handlebar to my bicycle, no, for I went to Wokingham to see how James was and to take in an order, and bring some change back.
11 miles
Tuesday April 22
Put a new handlebar to my bicycle.
Wednesday April 23
Bertha took Rodney to Wokingham to have him shod. A little before 4, I went in to see if Henry was going for a run, but as he had a British School meeting on at half past 6, he could not go, so as the wind was against Marlow way, I turned back to Eversley, and after staying a few minutes, went off to Fleet, and straight on to the canal, and at the second bridge I rested a while, and then on by Crookham Church, and on to very good road until I turned into the Fleet and Farnham road which was very loose, until I, again, made a turn into the London road and home by Farnham and Hawley. The evening was cold and dull and I did not very much enjoy the run, especially as it was somewhat dark from Aldershot and I was out of sorts with a sore throat.
32 miles
Thursday April 24
After tea, George and I went by trap to Wokingham. I called upon Mr Radford as I went in. I wanted to see Henry about Mr Dew and a continuation of the lease, but he was out having gone to Selborne with Mr Kemp and on tricycles. We met them coming home.
Friday April 25
I went for a very nice run after tea round Fleet, Elvetham, Hartley Row and back by the same route. Coming back, I saw a fire break out in the heath near the lodge leading from Fleet to Minley Manor. Some of the roads I went over this evening were the best I have ever been upon. A very nice run for a quiet evening would be – to the Crop, Holly Bush Lane, to the left, and straight on to Yateley Green, by Darby Green to Hawley. Just beyond the Post Office, turn to the right and away to Fleet, over the bridge to the right and straight to Hartley Row new church, back to the left by the old church, walk down the hill and away by the Unicorn, and after passing again under the railway, keep straight on which leads to the road from the Flats to Fleet. This, I think, would be a splendid run.
16 miles
Sunday April 27
A dull looking morning. Bertha, Frances and George by trap to Wokingham, and I intended following directly after on the bicycle, but rain coming down prevented me, so I did several odd jobs until dinner time and then lit a fire and sat down to my dinner at 2 o’clock and had a nice nap until 4 o’clock when I got ready for a walk into Wokingham. Although it was wet, I enjoyed the walk in. Heard the cuckoo for the first time this year. I rode back while George came by train to Well Coll. Jamie took up his abode at the Post Office yesterday.
Tuesday April 29
I went to Wokingham in time for tea at the Market Place. Called in at Tom’s when he showed me his plans for making a new kind of bicycle wheel. Had a talk with Henry about the lease for Eversley. Went for a run to Binfield and found out Stocker’s address. Mary Bird came today.
18 miles
Wednesday April 30
Having arranged with Henry for a run to Marlow, I ordered things so as to be able to get off from here at half past 3, but was frustrated by George who had dinner. Bertha and Frances into Wokingham this morning, not getting back by this time. The morning was glorious, but towards the middle of the day, it blew up strong and very dull looking, which at 4 o’clock resolved itself into a rough storm, but cleared off again before 5 to quite a nice evening. It was not much too late to think about going the Marlow run, so I made haste and got ready, and after taking some money to Wixenford, I made haste into Wokingham in the hope of catching Henry before he went out, but although from the time I was dressing until I got down at Wokingham was only three quarters of an hour, I was just 10 minutes too late to catch him before he started for Burchett’s Green. I called in at the office and saw Bertha coming up from the station and then went in pursuit of Henry. The wind followed me and the roads were good and I went along at a grand pace but failed to overtake him before he landed at B.G. I did the journey in 50 minutes. We stayed about three quarters of an hour and then came home via Waltham. While we were staying at B.G. we saw a very heavy looking cloud pass round and we found it had rained considerably at Waltham, so that we felt fortunate in escaping it. All round Billingbear Park, went very heavy to me and I guess it will be a long time before I attempt that way again. Had a good supper at the Office and then home.
32 miles
1884
Tuesday May 1
Had arranged for George to go to London to buy a Matchless bicycle which was advertised in last week’s ‘Cyclist’. He was to go by the 8.32 train from the College, but having come home the worse for drink last night, he could not turn out of bed this morning in time to have any breakfast and only just in time for me to drive him half way on the road.
After breakfast we were busy packing up and getting things ready for Bertha and Frances for their Hastings sojourn. They left here about half past 10 and Wokingham by the 12.15 to Redhill and thence by the 2.15 L.B.S.C.R. They got down safely and well. Eva went with them. George got home by the last train and arrived here at a little past 11 o’clock with the bicycle, both he and the machine being in good condition and neither of them the least groggy. He brought down three camembert cheese, 3 lb. gorgonzola and two pigeons. Paid 1/3 per pound for the gorgonzola. I caught a rat in the shop this afternoon. Weather very windy.
Friday May 2
Did up the few orders there were and then cleaned the bicycle George bought yesterday. After dinner, I rode it to Wokingham for some change. Being a 55 inch machine, I had to place a block of wood on the step to mount by. I got along famously. The day was very windy and drizzly.
11 miles
Saturday May 3
Was one of the quiet days I have had for a Saturday since I have been here. George walked to Wokingham and brought goods back with the grey pony.
Saturday May 4
Was wet the first part of the day so George and I did not go to Wokingham until after dinner, when, as the weather cleared up, I went on the 55ʺ bicycle and George with the Wokingham pony and trap. There was a very strong wind blowing which put me along grandly to Wokingham and did not trouble me much on the return journey. Something wrong with the clutch of the omnicycle necessitates Tom going to Birmingham tomorrow. Called upon Mrs Saddler but could not get in.
13 miles
Monday May 5
Went for a run on the 55ʺ this morning. Thunderstorm in the afternoon. George and Barker to Farnborough with the shop pony. Mr Ryder came in and spent the evening here. George and Barker did not return until past 11 o’clock.
6 miles
Tuesday May 6
Henry came over on his way to view George Pigg’s hogs. Had tea and then for a very pleasant run we went. Once we took shelter under a hedge from a passing storm but the weather was very beautiful and the roads good. We went exactly the journey I described on Friday April 25. It was very, very pleasant out tonight. While I was away, Mr Hopkinson called.
22 miles
Wednesday May 7
Called upon Mrs Hopkinson and had an interview with her about the price of oats. The morning was fine and bright, but as the day advanced, the wind got up and the clouds gathered thick, so that by 4 o’clock, a run was out of the question. I left here at half past 3 to go with Henry for a spin, but as I say, the weather prevented us. A little after 4, it came on to rain and more wretched weather, we could not have had. I called upon Mr Rainbow who is ill abed, and also upon Mrs Saddler who I found very well. Got rather wet coming home.
11 miles
Thursday May 8
George drove to Wokingham for some goods.
Friday May 9
George Woods and Kemp walked over and took back the shop pony. After I had shut up I went for a run to the Cross and back and the five times round Wixenford. The evening was calm and warm, and the birds, that is the nightingales were in song.
13 miles
Saturday May 10
As it was such a beautiful day, I took a run in the afternoon to Fleet and round the lanes by Elvetham and home which I enjoyed.
12 miles
Sunday May 11
Having made some coffee the overnight, I got up at half past 3, and exactly at 4 o’clock, I started off for a run. The moon was shining full and struggling with the dawn to hold supremacy, but the sun conquered. Directing my course to Bramshill Park, I rode down the avenue of trees in the blue mist of early morning and around the musical tongues of the feathered tribe and the gambols of the rabbits and hares and the screechings of the peacocks, and was just in time to see the sun break above the horizon, a liquid ball of fire, and gild the tops of the gables of Bramshill House with living gold, while the rest of the house was shaded in the quiet vale of summer morning.
On I passed with a happy heart, on up the lovely hill towards the Monument, and then to Hazeley Heath and Hartley Row and Elvetham and up the Fleet road, across the Flats, home at 6 o’clock and then to bed until 9. Had another breakfast, killed a rat and then off to Wokingham. Went to Chapel and then round the Holt with Tom. Had tea at the shop and then off with Henry at 5 o’clock to Burchett’s Green and Marlow.
There was a slight breeze at our back, and good roads made us, and so it came to pass, I did not dismount until I reached Marlow Bridge in the hour and 12 minutes. Here we rested a short time and watched the rowers on the river and the river itself, and the beautiful town and the lovely woods, but soon we had to leave, and onward wend our way to Henley. The wind had now gone down to a faint breeze which we could not feel. Never had it go so easily to Henley. Here we had some beer and ginger beer. Came home through Hurst in just over the hour. This was one of the run of runs.
I felt a great deal more tired before I started than when I reached Wokingham. Had a good supper at the office and home at Eversley about 10 o’clock.
60 miles
Monday May 12
Was a beautifully fine day but I didn’t go out anywhere as I had plenty to do at home.
Tuesday May 13
Went to Wokingham directly after breakfast and took in some cheques for the bank, also an order. Called upon Geo Woods but he was not at home. Ordered a suit of clothes off Green. Was home to dinner. At 8 o’clock, I went to Blackwater and thence along the Flats home. The evening was rather dull.
22 miles
Wednesday May 14
Goods came over. I set out the shop. After dinner, I had an attack of toothache. The wind was very strong and the weather looked, so that although I had written to Henry to come over for a run, I didn’t in the least expect him to, so when he did come over at half past 4, I was not ready. After we had caught a rat in the shop, which took us some time to do, the weather had calmed a little and so we made a start and went to Blackwater and then to Fleet and home, a better run than I anticipated.
When I got home, my tooth came on worse and I had a bad night with it. I don’t like the toothache. It was a bad kind of day for a Wednesday, very good for any other day.
14 miles
Thursday May 15
Was bad with the tooth all day.
Sunday May 18
Have had the toothache since Wednesday. Went to Wokingham via Easthampstead. A beautiful day but could not enjoy it because of the tooth.
14 miles
Monday May 19
Was very bad all day. I could do nothing.
Tuesday May 20
A little better but still ill.
Wednesday May 21
About 7 o’clock Mary knocked at my door to say Henry was waiting outside the house. He came over for me to go a run. So up and boiled the kettle on the forge. Had a shave and breakfast and all ready to start out at 8 o’clock. Henry, after the suggestions of Mr Kemp, had marked out a fresh piece of ground from Basingstoke to Alresford by the side of a stream which rises somewhere between these two places and runs to Alresford, Winchester and so to Southampton.
Passing through Sherfield to Basingstoke where we saw nothing out of the ordinary except the great quantity of May along the Monument road. Had a liquor up at the old Angel Cafe. Saw Tom Brant. Up the street and to the R., up Hackwood Street, we started on out new grounds. Passing through a little village, we came to the foot of a long hill up which we worked until we came to the very steep part and then walked for a quarter of a mile, after which we again rode. The scenery was very fine and so was the weather. The ascent continued for a considerable distance and then came to a most enjoyable long downhill ending upon a series of villages upon a level road, the quiet out-of-the-worldness addressing great charm to them. The well-kept and pretty little gardens in front of nearly every cottage presented a most charming picture, and as we bowled along over the excellent road, we were filled with admiration. Putting along at a grand pace, we shot by an avenue of yew trees which so struck us that we pulled up and dismounted to have a look at them. A nice clean pool of water being close at hand, I leaned my bicycle against the railings and stooped down and had a drink. Looking up, I saw a workman who gave me some useful information about the place.
That very pool of water was the fountainhead of the very stream we had come to see, and from there it ran right away to Southampton. I rode down at least halfway down, the avenue of yews, and as I looked back towards the hills, I wondered where the mansion was, for I felt sure there must be one, but still I could not see it. I made known my difficulty to the workman, and he told me that just where I was looking for it, was the foundations of some early buildings, and also of a church, but the only thing remaining above ground was a few old gravestones, the mansion and the church gone long, long ago, so long that the oldest inhabitants know nothing of it, and would never have known of their existence save for the shattered remains of the buried foundations and the fingers of the sombre avenue of ancient yews pointing to the spot.
We stood here at Chilton Candover amid these relics of ancient greatness on this beautiful spring morning and a feeling came over us of being shut off from the rest of the world by the wooded hills which surrounded us on every hand, but no! a way was open by following the road by the side of which flowed the little stream. Soon again, we passed another churchyard, but the church gone, on through pretty scenery to beautiful, for it was beautiful, by Lord Ashburton’s Park. Now came a long uphill which very much surprised us, for although we could see a long way up the road, it did not appear to rise severely at all. But by jove it was uphill, but it was worth going up, for on either side, it stretched away like a common, but instead of the ordinary broom and furze, it was lawn like grass and a forest of juniper or bush yews. Such a sight I never saw. Then the prospect was good beyond.
We now had a long descent to Alresford. We put up at a pub on the edge of a large pond. Had a wash and a brush down and a bread and cheese dinner. Afterwards we sat on a fence at the bottom of the garden and over the pond watched the wild fowl and the swans. We also had a good view of a water rat which was swimming towards us, but when some one then at him, he immediately dived and ran along the bottom. The water being very clean and not deep, we had a good view of him as he transversed the bottom until he came to the bank. Alresford is in decay. Grass in the main street. Not a new house in the place.
The town is in the shape of a T. The church is ugly and placed at the back of the houses at the top of the T, and approached through a little opening between two houses. The back ways back right on to the churchyard which stands considerably above the sills of the ground floor windows. We left Alresford at half past 2, and made our way up a hill six miles long, the main portion of which we rode, and could have all, only it was afternoon and the sun was so hot. From the top, we had a good view down for miles to Alton. There was a great many May trees on the downhill, but were not out yet. We did not stay at Alton, but went right on to Farnham over splendid road. At Farnham, we passed the Post Office and turned to the right and on the left was a coffee house where we had tea. A long push up out of Farnham and then we mounted and came straight away home without a dismount via Aldershot, Farnborough, Hawley etc. The weather, we could not have had better. Bright sun without a cloud, no wind except a little on our back from Alton to Farnham. The roads were excellent all the way round, except the Aldershot piece. The distance was Basingstoke 12, Alresford 12, Alton 10 Farnham 9, Eversley 13. Total 56 miles. I was very tired from being out of sorts. This is, I was tired when I got home. We both enjoyed the day amazingly.
56 miles
Friday May 23
There was a race on this evening between Johnson and Spencer. The course was three times round Wixenford = 6 miles. Johnson won easily.
Sunday May 25
To Wokingham and to Chapel both morning and evening. The evening service consisted of the usual prayers and singing and a lecture on John Wycliffe by Mr Woodrow.
11 miles
Monday May 26
Wrote and sent Bertha a copy of the Dew correspondence. Went to Wokingham after tea and had my hair cut. Took an order in.
12 miles
Tuesday May 27
Up at 3 o’clock and had breakfast and at half past was mounted for a run. Went to Sandhurst via Moor Green and on through the R.M. College grounds and up to the Jolly Farmer, and back to Frimley, Hawley, Yateley and home. It was not a very nice morning, too cold and a grey cast about it. In the evening I went for about five miles, but again it was too cold for me.
26 miles
Wednesday May 28
The annual meeting of the Berkshire Association of Baptist Churches was held at Wokingham, so I made up my mind to go to the dinner, and if it was fine, to the tea also. I left here at 12 o’clock, changed my clothes at Wokingham, and then Henry and I went to the dinner, which was a capital spread. There was a few short speeches after dinner. At 5 o’clock, I went to tea and had a jovial time of it. A walk round the Holt, and then to the evening service which I very much enjoyed. Saw a good many times.
11 miles
Thursday May 29
George being out all day, I had to wait until 2 o’clock before I went to Wokingham for change for Wixenford. When I got there, Henry was out, so I left word for him to bring it over.
11 miles
Friday May 30
Henry brought the change over. After tea, I went to Sandhurst and paid Mr Pigg.
8 miles
1884
Sunday June 1
To Wokingham and to Chapel morning and evening. After the evening service was the Lord’s Supper.
Monday June 2 – Bank Holiday
Fine again. Was off to Wokingham early so as to avoid the club bands playing here. Left George and Mary at home. Spent a greater part of the morning cleaning my bicycle and repairing one for some friends of Mr Heron. Had dinner at the Post Office, and then at 2 o’clock, Henry and I started off on our bicycles for Guildford. There was quite a S.E. wind blowing which was against us, and the roads being very loose (though not so loose as we expected), we made but very poor time. It took quite two and half hours. We had tea at the British Workman and after that a most pleasant walk by the side of the river and back by the road. I very much enjoyed this walk. We left Guildford about half past 7 and came home very easily with a strong wind at our back.
42 miles
Tuesday June 3
Mr Dew called in and looked over the premises for the first time this six years.
Wednesday June 4
After tea I on my bicycle to see Mr Brown at Farley Hill about Mr Wells. He advised me to see Mr [word missing] who holds a mortgage on the place. So I called upon him. He lives opposite the World Turned Upside Down, near Reading, so I went into Reading and home via Wokingham. Called upon Henry, but he was out having gone with the Wokingham Cycling Club for a first run to Sonning. Rained a little coming home.
22 miles
Thursday June 5
Went to Reading to see how the County Courters were getting on. Took up £6.10.2. Bought two hats at Smith for 6/-.
Saturday June 7
Had a very good evening.
Sunday June 8
To Wokingham to Chapel morning and evening. Came on wet in the afternoon.
Tuesday June 10
Did a little repairing such as putting the front garden gate in order etc. James Barkshire came over to dinner and to see me about his patent for indicating the time upon a glass globe. After 8 o’clock, I went to Wokingham for change. The roads and weather were in splendid order. 27 minutes there and 30 back. Kennedy rode back with me.
11 miles
Wednesday June 11
Was dull and rather windy. Goods came over this morning. Henry came over at 4 o’clock and after a cup of tea, we started off for a run. I wore my light clothes for the first time. We went against the wind which was soft and strong to the Monument, thence to the right and the left round the park to Stratfield Saye, on to Bramley where we dismounted to view the church which was of a very plain and unmonumental character, brick tower and plaster walls with attic windows. Here is buried the Gammon family and a great many of the Butlers, 14 stones to the Cliff family we counted. From Bramley, we passed on to Sherborne, but before we reached that place, we passed Mr Chute’s mansion, a building very like Bramshill House only not quite so large and not raised upon a terrace.
In Sherborne we were very much disappointed. It is scarcely a village let alone a town. The church seems the principal thing about the place and that deuced ugly. Well, we didn’t stop long at Sherborne but made our way into the Basingstoke road just this side of the G.W. railway. From there, we came along sharp to Sherfield Green where we indulged in a pint of the best and a few biscuits. Then an easy run going home.
34 miles
Thursday June 12
Had a letter to say Bertha had come to Wokingham last night so I at once went in on the bicycle to see about her coming over. Arranged that business and was back again in a little over an hour. At 2 o’clock Kennedy came across to mind the shop while I went to Wokingham. At 4 I left and after doing a little business, I went down to see the train come in from Ascot. There were very few compared to former years and poorly patronized. About 8 o’clock, we, Bertha, Frances, Eva and I came home and very pleased I was to get them home again and in good health.
22 miles
Sunday June 15
To Wokingham. Bertha and Frances went to Chapel, but I, having to bring over 4 doz. sponge cakes to Wixenford, went for a ride until dinner time. Had tea at the shop and a run with Henry round Waltham for 20 miles during which time, we did not dismount until we reached Wokingham.
Coming along the back road, I met a chaise which would not move out of the way, so I pulled the whip out of its cover and threw it in the gravel, which very much agitated the driver and made him feel rather small, especially as there was another bicyclist just passing him and smiling at him.
I came home the Nine Mile Ride way.
46 miles
Monday June 16
Played in a cricket match at Hazeley Heath but could do nothing.
10 miles
Tuesday June 17
Went to Wokingham after dinner and got Mr Sale to write out a notice to quit to Mr Dew.
11 miles
Wednesday June 18
Bertha and George to Wokingham. At 5, Ieft here and made my way to Oakley to see Downham. He was out, but I saw Mrs D. I left here without any money, so I called in at Uncle’s at Hartley Row and borrowed 1/-. I did not much enjoy the run over. I felt rather dull but the return journey was better and I came along sharp against a slight side wind 12 miles an hour.
34 miles
Thursday June 19
Went for a pleasant run after tea round Fleet and Elvetham. The rhododendrons are very pretty just now.
14 miles
Friday June 20
Took Bertha over the same journey as I went yesterday on the trap.
Saturday June 21
Had a run up to my old tree and a smoke.
6 miles
Sunday June 22
Bertha, Frances, Eva and George by trap and I on the bicycle to Wokingham. Bertha and I to Chapel. At half past 3, Henry and I left for Burchett’s Green. We went the old way via Bill Hill and Ruscombe in just the hour so that we were in good time for tea. Of the family, there was only Mr and Mrs and Frank at home and three visitors After tea, we had a pleasant smoke at the bottom of the orchard and watched a storm come up from Marlow. The grand old trees of the park looked very pretty. The storm lasted about an hour, and then we came home the same road as we went as far as Bill Hill. There we turned to the left and by the Warren House and out on to the London road. I took home some change. A very nice day.
32 miles
Monday June 23
How different a day sometimes ends from how it begins. Today began troublesome and ended very pleasantly.
First thing I had to wait upon Mrs Hopkinson and hear a complaint, and then getting back, I had no sultanas for Wixenford cakes. Eventually, I got some from Wixenford. After dinner, Henry came over with some change, stopped to tea and then we went a very nice run. From here, up Brickhouse hill, across the Flats and on towards Fleet, but turned off to the right before getting there and away over the railway bridge between Fleet and Winchfield, straight on along a winding round lane, level and very pretty to Crookham Canal bridge, back a short distance and along some more pretty lanes to Crondall, which is a very large village, almost a town.
We put up at an old inn and had a glass of ale, then a look round the church which is a very quaint one indeed. It has a very large square brick tower and the body of the church is of a very odd pattern with immense buttresses. From the tower to one point of the building is a railed gallery. A fine venue of limes leads up to the entrance.
(Ericoides, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
We left Crondall by the same road as we entered and then shortly turned off for Odiham and a splendid run we had over good road and lovely scenery. On the left was principally composed of pretty little commons which ended up in one immense common. On the right, was Dogmersfield Park which looked almost enchanting. I cannot describe how beautiful it all looked. I can only say it was worth coming a long way to see, and I hope I may see it again. We came in to Odiham at the bottom of the town and went up right through and to the right for Hook and Hartley Row and so home. From the railway bridge near Fleet right the way to Hook was new ground to me and mightily pleased I was with it. There were no hills worth speaking of, the road good and the scenery close heavy and wildly pretty.
30 miles
Tuesday June 24
Davis came over to do the tow. Jamie also came over. I put the chaff machine in order.
Wednesday June 25
Not having made any arrangements with Henry for a run, I got ready and was casting up in my mind which way I should go when, much to my relief, Henry came in on his bicycle and suggested a run to Basingstoke and Alton via Hackwood. This just suited me, so after tea and a little before 5 o’clock, we mounted and away we went. The weather was very bright and warm with a slight breeze in our favour which made going easy. After pushing up Brickhouse Hill, we did not make a dismount until some three or four miles beyond Basingstoke. The run to Basingstoke, of course, wants no description. We went via Hartley Row and Hook, and being a clear bright afternoon, we saw the country to advantage and much admired the panorama from Hook hill. As I say, we did not dismount at Basingstoke but immediately turned to the left, up Hackwood road which led us round by the park of which we saw but little, and like what man wants below we found that little good. A long wall some miles in extent shut off most of the view, however when we came to Henwood, it was better and also by Herriard’s Park. At Herriard’s, we had a liquer up and a smoke, and then a long lot of downhill to Alton. We did not go into the town but turned up by the road to the Golden Pot. It was a very good run indeed from Basingstoke to Alton and the roads good with the exception of the uphill about five miles from Basingstoke where we made our first dismount. This was rather loose and too stiff to work up in the blazing sun. The other piece was after leaving the New Inn at Herriard’s half way down a steep hill where it was thickly coated with loose flint for about 100 yds. The scenery to Herriard’s was fairly good, but from Herriard’s to Alton was imposing and sublime. Bowling along the road which was good and mostly all on the descent, we saw the hills rise on either hand like little mountains, some covered with trees while others were pretty grass slopes. I cannot describe it. It was grandly pretty and worthwhile of work to see.
Mile after mile of road we covered and when we turned into the road for home, we came up the long hill to the Golden Pot like stags and reached the top as fresh as kittens and away down the other road at a tremendous pace for many miles on through South Warnborough and on up the long hill by Long Sutton until we came to the last hill before Odiham and there we dismounted and lighted our lamps. That was a beautiful run of some 12 miles and at a rattling pace too. From the top of the hill, we beheld the old town of Odiham enveloped in the mist of a beautiful summer’s evening. The sun had just sunk to rest and the moon a day old just showed herself.
It was all quiet calm and serene and I heard a voice say Cry. Lord I said what shall I cry. That her work here is accomplished, Her days are fulfilled, Her children have left her And she is as a widow amongst the cities of the plain Alone and forsaken. But she will end her days in peace for the railway shall not come into her Nor the noise of steam disturb her.
At the end of the town we had a light up again and a talk with a respectable man taking a glass at the Inn. When we left, we again made a good pace and came home as fresh as when we left. I came as far as the Greyhound with Henry, and here we parted after the end of one of the best Wednesday evening runs we have had. We have been very extravagant with our new runs this week and if we don’t soon draw in our horns, we shan’t have a piece of fresh road to go over. We certainly went the right way round again. It wouldn’t be so well the opposite way.
44 miles
Thursday June 26
Had a paper asking me to tender for the supply of bread to No 1 district of Winchfield, so I at once went to Hartley Row to see Mr Prior. He was out so I took a run round and called again and got the information I required. George went to Wokingham for goods.
12 miles
Friday June 27
Took the tender and sample of bread to Winchfield Union by 10 o’clock. The weather was delightfully fine and hot and the country looked beautiful. Bertha and I went to Mr Porter’s to tea. In the evening, Uncle and I took a walk round. We stayed to supper. I did not get home until half past 11. We enjoyed the outing.
12 miles
Sunday June 29
There was a heavy rain from 5 to 7 this morning, the first we have had for a long time. Bertha and Frances by trap and I on the bicycle to Wokingham. I went to Chapel. Started for a run after tea but was too lazy to go far. At Hurst, I sat upon a gate and rested and enjoyed the evening and then came home.
20 miles
1884
Tuesday July 1
Went to Wokingham after tea to take an order in.
11 miles
Wednesday July 2
Henry came over to tea and at 5 o’clock we left for a run. Wanting to get to Mortimer, we went via Farley Hill to Swallowfield and up the Basingstoke road and to the right just before reaching the Monument. At Mortimer, we had a pint of Blandy and Hawkins, and taking the advice of the landlord, we avoided the nearest way to Silchester and went straight on by the plantation for about a mile or a mile and a half, and then to the left. After passing one road, we again took the left and followed that road for some miles until we turned out of it just before reaching Sherborne where we took the road to Bramley and on to Sherfield and so home. The road all the way, with the exception of to Farley Hill and from Heckfield home, is of the very best and only one short hill to cause a dismount. We mean to have another run round here. This time as we did not know one’s way, we were kept from doing any great time. It is just the way for quick running. I had a boil on my wrist which caused me a good deal of inconvenience. How delightful was the weather, bright and sunny and no wind until we turned for home and then we had a slight breeze on our backs.
35 miles
Thursday July 3
Had the goods over. James came over and informed me that the paper works at Wokingham were burned down. In the evening I went on the bicycle to a circus, but it was a very poor turnout and very thinly attended. It was Bowen and Benham’s turn out. I had a very painful ride home with my arm.
11 miles
Friday July 4
Arm very bad.
Saturday July 5
My arm being too bad to work, I had Kennedy over for the day. Coming over, the pony ran away and the reins broke and the horse ran into the bank and overturned the trap. No damage.
Sunday July 6
I rode in with George and Kennedy, Bertha, Frances and Mabel in our trap. Dr Hicks lanced my arm.
Wednesday July 9
Bertha drove me in to Wokingham after tea. I stayed and slept at the office so as to be ready to go to Hastings tomorrow. Bertha did not stay.
Thursday July 10
The morning was wet but cleared off about 10 o’clock. I went to Redhill by the 10.25. Mr Sale came as far as Aldershot by the same train. From Redhill, I went by L.B.&S.C.R. and a very nice ride I had, and got to Hastings at half past 2. John met me at the station. In the evening I went on the pier and saw ‘The Streets of London’.
Friday July 11
Went in the baths in the morning and after dinner John and I took a walk to Fairlight Glen and back.
Saturday July 12
Went for a walk through the park and into St Leonards and round about and back again through the park. It rained a considerable portion of the time. In the evening, as it rained again, I went on the pier.
Sunday July 13
John and I to church but did not stay to the finish, but took a walk instead. We took our course up the town and then away over the tunnel and down again to the Parade. There was a deal of thunder about and at times the lightning was vivid. We only had one slight shower. The weather was beautifully balmy. After dinner, I went up the West Cliff and after tea, John and I took a train to Battle and then a walk to Normanhurst and back. Came home by the 9.20 train. My leg was very bad all the way round. I had a good look at the roads, and was more fully convinced than ever, that they were not the kind for bicycling. From Normanhurst to Battle we took the path across the fields, entering which we passed five sisters, four of whom were cripples on crutches.
Monday July 14
Went to the theatre and took Martha. The pieces were ‘Once Again’ and ‘The Three Hats’.
Tuesday July 15
Was showery during the morning. I stayed in and cleaned the scale chains and did a little piece of repairs to the outhouse. Called upon Mr Nicholson in the evening and he showed me the electric light works. Bought a clock at Siddinds for 5/6 and then off to the pier with Martha. The piece was ‘The Corsican Brothers’.
Wednesday July 16
Was up betimes, had a good breakfast, and then John and I to the station where we took the 8.30 up L.B.&S.C.R. to London Bridge. We had a pleasant ride up. It rained heavily to Polegate when it cleared off for the day. John had an appointment at Izard and Dawes. When we got there, the man had not arrived, so we took a walk up the interesting street called Fenchurch Street and then back to the office again at 12 o’clock, but still John’s man had not arrived, so we went on London Bridge and waited there until 1 o’clock when we made another call, but to no purpose. We were hungry by this time so we dropped into a sausage shop and had dinner, and then off to London Bridge again, and there took the steamboat to Greenwich and back by it. It was now 4 o’clock and we made a last call at Izards but futility again. This made John run home as fast as he could, so off to Cannon Street station and away to Hastings by the S.E.R. I came back to London Bridge Station and got my bag and then by train to Waterloo and took the 4.45 to Wokingham. Had tea at the office and home by trap with Bertha. The weather on the whole, while I was at Hastings, was very good.
Thursday July 17
Was at the book all day.
Friday July 18
Was far from well. After the orders and after dinner, I went to Wokingham to bring Frances home and to bring back some goods. I also arranged with Kennedy to bring some over with the shop pony and trap. James wanting a walk, I sent him on to Eversley so as to ride back with Kennedy. Unfortunately, Kennedy was unable to have the trap this evening and so James had to sleep at Eversley.
Saturday July 19
Geo Woods came over with the goods and brought Margaret with him and took James back.
Sunday July 20
Bertha, Frances, Mabel and George by trap to Wokingham. To Chapel in the morning and heard Mr Matthews on ‘I have meat to eat that ye know not of’. He gave us a very poor, passionless discourse. After tea, Bertha, Frances and I took a walk through Langborough and round by the bail. We called in to see Mrs Brown. I rode my bicycle to Wokingham and back but did not feel equal to working it further.
11 miles
Monday July 21
After tea, I called upon Mr Goddard but he was out. Then at H. Marshall’s to enquire the name of the people who had taken East Court for a time. It was Sir Henry Rawlinson. I then called upon Mr William White about his account. Then right away round to Radford’s but he was haymaking, so I went on by New Mill to Brickhouse to see Mrs Barker about her bill. She promised a shilling a week. Then back to Radford’s but as he was just going out, we arranged to meet tomorrow evening.
12 miles
Tuesday July 22
Yesterday, George brought over a load of goods in our cart and today we had Sale’s van over with some more. Called upon Mr Radford this evening and he promised £20 or £30 within a week.
Wednesday July 23
Had cleaned up the place nicely and got straight so as to go for a run, when just at 4 o’clock, it began to rain and set in for a wet evening, so instead of going for a run, I put the workshop tidy and did several little jobs. Cleaned the bicycle etc.
Thursday July 24
Bertha and Mary went to Wokingham. After tea, I called upon Mr White at Holly Bush Lane about his bill. Then round to Robert White to urge him on with the painting, and into Mr Sparvell for some change. When I got home I found Henry here. He brought over a Miss Arminier but unfortunately there was no one here to entertain her. They left just before Bertha returned and then down came the rain again. This morning, I started off for Reading on the bicycle to see after the County Court cases, but when I got to West Wood, it looked like a heavy storm coming up so I turned back, and a good job I did, for at Arborfield they had it very heavy and we had wet, more or less all day long.
Friday July 25
The cricket match between Australia and England at Lord’s on the 21, 23 and 24 ended in a victory for the English by an innings and a few runs. I went to Wokingham after tea to bring home Frances and some change (£60) and a few goods. Coming back, I called upon Mr Ryder to take him some cheese and also to see how he did, he having been ill for some time. I promised to call for him on Tuesday and ride him over to Eversley for the afternoon. Called in at Mr Sparvell’s for the change he promised me, and then on to Wixenford with a few goods.
Saturday July 26
Took up £100 worth of change to Wixenford, less the book (£8.10.0). Goddard, their coachman, met with an accident while on his bicycle this afternoon. Came on very wet after dinner. The painter finished today.
Sunday July 27
Bertha, George and Frances by trap and I on the bicycle to Wokingham. The afternoon was wet, and being tired, I went to sleep. Called upon Geo Woods after tea and saw two cabinets for moths and butterflies which he has just purchased. George stayed so as to be ready for the Volunteer camp on Monday. Henry was also busy preparing for the week’s outing.
11 miles
Monday and Tuesday July 28 and 29
Were both more or less wet. On Monday, I received a cheques from Mr Venn for £30.0.0 and on Tuesday, Mr Ryder whom we fetched, paid his book.
Wednesday July 30
Commenced with a threatening aspect. I bought 50 sk flour off Mr Cover @ 30/-. The day turned out amazingly hot and fine and I trimmed up the front hedge and a warm job it was too. I went a part of the journey. As I did not start until 3 o’clock, it was half past 4 before I got home. The roads being far too wet for a ride, I finished off the hedge. Saw Mr Scorey pass on his way from Winchfield, so called him in. He was bound for Webb’s farm where his two boys are staying, so after going there, he came back again with them.
Thursday July 31
Was fine again so made up my mind for a run this afternoon. After paying Lawes and giving him an order, I had an early tea and then at half past 4, I started off for Mortimer intending to go the round Henry and I went on July 2nd, but finding the roads very muddy in places, I abandoned the idea and turned back to the Monument and then for Mattingley and Hartley Row. Called upon Uncle but did not see him as he was ill abed. However, I received a kind welcome and was entertained well.
I had no smokes, and Goughs, the only place in Hartley Row where cigarettes are kept, were closed, there being a marriage on. Seeing Jim Gough, I got him to let me have a packet and then went on my way rejoicing. From Hartley Row, went round Elvetham and so home. It was very pleasant all round by Elvetham and I enjoyed a cigarette there, as I sat down and watched the setting sun.
18 miles
1884
Friday August 1
Was up a little before it was light. Had a good breakfast and exactly at half past 3, I started off for a run and went the round through Hartley Row and Elvetham. It was anything but light until I came to the Flats and still here was rather dark, but it was also very pretty dashing through the heavy mist. At Elvetham, I sat down the same gate as I did the evening before and now saw the sun rise which was equally pretty. Home at 5 and to bed again until 8 o’clock. Got the orders up early and Barker off. Bertha and Mabel drove to Wokingham and brought Frances home for her holidays. The two young Scoreys came down here this afternoon and stayed to tea.
12 miles
Saturday August 2
On the whole, I had a very good day. Being disappointed with yeast, I sent Winkworth to Sandhurst for some on Rodney. He started about 8 o’clock and was not home until half past 10.
Sunday August 3
Having made coffee the overnight, I got up early and had a nice little breakfast, and then before it was light, which was a little after 3 o’clock, I started off for a run. The weather was cloudy, with here and there a few stars shining through where the clouds parted. It was anything but light all the way to Hawley. Going by the Yateley Church, I could no where near observe the time, and at Hawley I had to dismount and walk over the heath before I could tell that the hands stood at 10 to 4.
Passing by Fleet Pond which was covered with steam, I made my way to the gate upon which I sat about a year ago and saw the sun rise, and here again I did the same and also had a smoke. Altogether, I immensely enjoyed the morning and it filled me with many pleasant thoughts, a few of which I put into verse.
Going home at 5 o’clock, I went to bed again until 9, then at half past 9 to Wokingham and to Chapel where I heard a young man preach from the words ‘And he began to be about 30 years of age’. Called upon Tom who is laid up with an abscess in his jaw and very ill. At quarter to 4, I left for Burchett’s Green and arrived there via Bill Hill in good time for tea. Spent a pleasant hour there, and then home at a very quiet pace, stopping several times to pencil down the thoughts that filled me along my morning ride. They were principally thoughts on the decline of night and the break of day.
The bright star of morning in dimness retires And paled is her light, her glory expires And the moon grows feeble and faints in the light And quietly dissolved is the queen of the night. Then rises the sun, a world of bright fire He has glories to give and life to inspire The tree tops he gilds with fine burnished gold And shades up the forest with beauty untold And the birds of the air are wild with delight Each greeting with gladness the first dawn of light Mid the cooing of doves, the screech of the jay The roll of the iron horse as it steams far away Mid the glories of the forest, the shade of the trees Through the blue morning mist unmoved by the breeze From the glories of the valley, the light of the plain Through the most of the vale to sunlight again. By green lanes and hedgerows, ’neath beautiful trees All studded with flowers and loaded with leaves And the dew of the morning lays thick on the grass And coats us with dust as through it we pass While over the hills a blue veil of light Is rolled up away the curtain of night And the beams from the sun like fine golden rain Envelop the mountains and floodeth the plain We think not of sorrow, the work of the day For the mind is at peace, all pleasant the way As we cut through the air and bound on our course And silently guide our untireable horse.
When I got to the office, I found that Bertha had gone home so I had a mouthful and was off at once. I very much enjoyed my runs this day.
45 miles
Monday August 4 – Bank Holiday
Was a most magnificent day. I did not leave Eversley until about 11 o’clock. Had dinner at the office. Minnie, Jamie and the children were there. At 3 o’clock, I left for Burchett’s Green going via Billingbear and Shottesbrook. There was only Mr Micklem and the servant in so I sat down upon the lawn until Mrs Micklem and Mollie arrived which was in about half an hour. We then had a nice tea after which I went to Marlow, but as there was a grand fete and also a regiment of the line encamped in Sir William’s Park, I was a long time getting there for I stayed to hear the band and see the people. It was very pretty indeed, the Temple grounds seemed alive. A few minutes I stayed on Marlow Bridge and then off to Henley. About three miles out of Marlow a tramp along the road asked me if he was on the right way to Windsor, and not quite knowing myself, I dismounted and directed him to the best of my ability. He told me he had walked all the way from Thame and that he had the [illegible] very bad and that he had to go to Chertsey in Surrey. He asked me if I had far to go and when I told him to Eversley, he at once asked me if I was Mr Butler and he then informed me he used to be the light poster at Heelas. I gave him a shilling for which he was thankful. At Henley, I had a half pint ale. Reaching Wokingham about half past 8, I made up my mind to stay with Bertha at the office for the night as I was very tired. I should have enjoyed the run better if I had been stronger.
Tuesday August 5
Got home a little after 8 o’clock. Mr Ryder came to tea.
Wednesday August 6
Mr Targett and Miss Porter drove over this afternoon and stayed to tea and then off to Hartley Row. Henry came in a little after 4 and just as we had finished tea, Miss Scorey and the two master Scoreys dropped in. Henry and I went for a run to Crondall and home via Hook. I was too weak to enjoy the run.
22 miles
Thursday August 7
Put the kingfisher in the omnicycle house and he got drowned.
Saturday August 9
I put the orders up for all the journeys by 11 o’clock and was off to Wokingham for change for Wixenford. Had my hair cut. Home by 2 o’clock.
11 miles
Sunday August 10
Rained from 6 am to 9 am and then came out hot. Bertha and Frances and George drove to Wokingham about half past 10 and I came in at 12 o’clock. After, I went to Sonning.
25 miles
Monday August 11
Bertha and George went to Wokingham. Henry came over to tea and wanted me to go for a run but I could not for there was only me here.
Tuesday August 12
Went to London by the 8.32 SER to see the cricket match at the Oval, England v Australia. It was a very nice day but I did not care much for the cricket. The Australians were in all day Monday for the loss of two wickets, Murdoch being 145 and Scott 103. Tuesday Murdoch increased his score to 311. The last wicket fell down about 5 o’clock. I left the ground just as the English were in.
(Tup Scott front left and Billy Murdoch directly behind him)
8 miles
Wednesday August 13
Was at work all day instead of going out for a run.
Thursday August 14
Hearing the bailiffs were at Radford’s, I called there twice this evening to see him but failed.
Friday August 15
Up by half past 6 and off to Radford’s and had an interview with him about his bill. After tea, I went to see Mr Simmonds about him. Brought home some change from the office.
16 miles
Saturday August 16
Had a very good day and comfortable.
Sunday August 17
Up at 4 and went for a run round Bramshill Park which is very nice. To Chapel in the morning, and after tea, which I had at the shop, with Henry for a run to Bryn Hill church and back.
40 miles
Monday August 18
Went to Reading by trap taking Bertha and Frances with me. Called in at the County Court and picked up some money. Attended a meeting at Mr Creed’s about Mr Barkshire’s affairs. Bought a bicycle bell 4/3.
Tuesday August 19
Henry came over for me to sign the release of Dew’s mortgage.
Wednesday August 20
Henry came over to tea and at about 5 o’clock, we started for Mortimer and round by Pamber Heath, Sherborne St John and Bramley. The weather was perfect and so was the road, and I enjoyed it more than any I have been for the last six weeks. We had liquer up at Silchester Common and an interesting chat with a man who had been in the employ of the Butlers at Sherfield and had brought pigs to Mrs Place. Mr Ryder came to supper and we had a hand of whist after.
33 miles
Thursday August 21
Called upon Glazier and then went to Yateley to see if Oram was still living there. At half past 2, I left for Basingstoke to put a few cases in the court. The afternoon was very hot and I had to hurry to catch the court before 4 o’clock. Had tea at the Angel Café and then came very quietly home.
28 miles
Friday August 22
Mr Denham sent for his horse last night and brought another in its place which turned out to be a jibber. George went the parish round and got a little too much liquor in him.
Saturday August 23
Got along very nicely. Sent Barker to Wokingham for goods.
Sunday August 24
Was magnificently hot day. After cleaning up the bicycles etc it was too late to get to Wokingham in time for service, so I took a very quiet ride to the College and round Easthampstead and so into Wokingham and I enjoyed the run more than any I have had on a Sunday morning this year. I did not go for a run in the evening because I had made arrangements with Henry to go for a run to Portsmouth tomorrow. We were going to start early about 4 o’clock, so Henry came over to our place to sleep.
15 miles
Monday August 25
Early this morning, about 1 o’clock the weather changed and came up wet and windy and so prevented our starting on our journey. It was very queer that it should have changed then for, up to sunset last night, there was no sign of any change and considering that there has been such gloriously fine weather for so long a time, it seemed probable for it to last weeks longer, but it didn’t. Henry went back after breakfast.
Tuesday August 26
Had an early tea and then off on the bicycle round Farley Hill and called upon the two Corderys and at Goodyer’s and Allen’s, but both of them were out, then on to Mr White’s and through Barkham to Wokingham. Did a little busness and on to Binfield to hunt up Stockers who I found had moved to Manor Farm. Saw her, and she promised to pay. Back to Wokingham and to a meeting in the Hall to protest against the action of the Peers, then home and hurt my leg trying to kill a rat.
24 miles
Wednesday August 27
Was a wet uncomfortable day. Bertha and I drove to Wokingham in the evening and we had a very dark ride home.
Thursday August 28
Drove to Wokingham. Bertha and I went to Reading by the 1.48 when I did business at the County Court. Bought a new day book. Back by the 4.45 and home at once and sent George in for a load of goods which I had ordered to be ready. Mr Ryder came in and paid and we had a game at whist.
Friday August 29
Mr Dew called in after dinner but I could not arrange anything with him.
Sunday August 31
Bertha, Frances and I drove to Wokingham. Too late for morning service and home before the evening.
1884
Monday September 1
After dinner, I went to Wokingham on the bicycle and thence by train to Reading to see James Barkshire. Back by the 8 o’clock GWR and home to Eversley.
11 miles
Wednesday September 3
James Barkshire came over on his bicycle to breakfast. Left the machine and back by our cart to Wokingham, George going in for Allen to come over and see the pony. George went to the shooting match at the range. I went the Eversley Cross journey. There was a tea meeting on at Finchampstead Chapel. Henry came over to it. Mr Sale drove over after tea to bring a message for me to go to Reading by 7 o’clock to see James Barkshire, so I at once left on my bicycle and got to Wokingham in time for the 6.4 GWR. Mr Hurst and I called upon Mr Barkshire Snr to see if we could get him to do anything for James but we failed. Came home by the 9.45. Tom went down and came back by the same train as I did. Had a very good run home to Eversley.
11 miles
Thursday September 4
Hearing that Radford had a Bill of Sale on his place, I went to Wokingham to see Mr Sale about it.
11 miles
Sunday September 7
Being a dull kind of day, we stayed at home. I repaired some clocks during the morning and had a run to Wokingham and back in the evening. Came home and wrote to John.
11 miles
Monday September 8
Henry came to tea.
Tuesday September 9
Mr Sparvell called to say Mr Beechey had bought the house at Eversley. I went in to see Henry about it.
11 miles
Wednesday September 10
Set out the shop with cheap ironmongery. Went for a short run after 4. There was a bicycle race on from the White Hart round Finchampstead and back. Won by Christie.
5 miles
Thursday September 11
Goods came over. Philip called in to tea. Henry brought over some change £30 which I took up to Wixenford.
Friday September 12
Had a run to Wokingham via Nine Mile Ride. Called upon Lee about his bill. Also in at the Works then on to Sandhurst to see Mr Pigg. Stayed to supper.
14 miles
Saturday September 13
Up at 7 o’clock and in to Wokingham to order some jam for Wixenford. Back by half past 8. George went to Reading.
11 miles
Sunday September 14
Bertha, George and Frances by trap to Wokingham, and I on the bicycle. Henry went to Hastings yesterday for a few days.
11 miles
Tuesday September 16
Called upon Mr Radford. Went to Wokingham in the evening.
13 miles
Wednesday September 17
Up at half past 5. Had breakfast and off a little after 6 o’clock to see Mr Jenkin Davis at Theale. Had a very nice ride there, the morning being very pretty and hot. After doing my business with Mr Davis, I came back to Reading and put my machine up at James Barkshire’s and went to the Abbey Café for breakfast. Had a very hot ride home. Went on with painting the drawing room. To Wokingham after tea to see Henry (who came home from Hastings last night) about putting Radford in Dill’s hands. Went to Dill’s and put the case in his hands and then came home very tired.
40 miles
Thursday September 18
George drove Bertha to Wokingham and then he went to Reading to attend the Court for me against Bell and Goodyer. They got back about 7 and then I went to Wokingham to do some business for Wixenford.
11 miles
Friday September 19
Bertha drove to Wokingham for some goods and to bring back £30 for Lady Glass.
Saturday September 20
George went to the ranges.
Sunday September 21
Fred Kent drove over from Farnham arriving here about 8 o’clock. I went in to Wokingham in time for the morning service. Bertha came in during the afternoon, she having stayed at Eversley to dinner to keep Ada company. I went to King’s Street blackberrying just before tea.
15 miles
Monday September 22
Went to Wokingham after tea to see Henry about the business. Had a dark ride home. Brought back £40.0.0 change for Wixenford.
11 miles
Tuesday September 23
Took up £70.0.0 to Wixenford before breakfast.
Wednesday September 24
There was a tea meeting on at New Mill. Miss Porter and Mr Targett came over to it and Miss P. came here before the meeting and had some tea. Henry and Millie came over. I did not go as I was busy fitting the old drawers up.
Thursday September 25
Bertha drove to Wokingham and took Mary Bird with her. George walked to the College and took the train to Reading to do some County Court work for me.
Friday September 26
Had pig from Mr White. Went to Wokingham and brought Martha back. She came from Hastings by the 6.35.
Saturday September 27
Bertha and Martha went by trap to Wokingham for some white vinegar for Wixenford. The carrier not bringing my sponge cake, I at once went to Wokingham on the bicycle, and succeeded in getting some. Back again by 8 o’clock. Very good evening.
11 miles
Sunday September 28
Bertha, Frances and Martha by trap, George on foot, and I on the bicycle, to Wokingham and to Chapel. Round Hound Green in the afternoon for blackberries. Geo Woods to tea.
14 miles
Monday September 29
Got on with the bills.
Tuesday September 30
To Wokingham after tea and called upon Dill.
11 miles
1884
Wednesday October 1
Drove Bertha to meet the 8.32 train from the College. Mrs Sale came up by the same and the two went to London to see Sir James Paget about Bertha’s tumour. I went to Wokingham for change after 4 o’clock, which I got at the office. When I came back, I drove to the Well College to meet Bertha and to take Frances in. Sir James spoke very hopefully of Bertha’s case. They went to the Christie Minstrels and enjoyed it very much.
(G. Jerrard, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
11 miles
Thursday October 2
Called upon Carter at West Court and then up to see Mr Arnold at Wixenford about the business. He was very nice indeed and acted very kindly to me. George went to Reading. Went to Wokingham in the afternoon and left my bicycle at Tom’s Works and brought back a tricycle for Martha.
Friday October 3
Bertha and Mary Bird to Wokingham and back before dinner for some goods. Martha rode the tricycle to Wokingham and back. After 8, George and I drove in and I came back on the bicycle.
11 miles
Sunday October 5
We were a little earlier than usual for a Sunday. Bertha, Eva and Martha by trap and George on the tricycle to Wokingham. A little after tea, I left on the bicycle and made my way to Elvetham and thence to Fleet. Sat down by the pond and enjoyed a smoke then on to Hawley and through Yateley to Wokingham. After dinner, I had an hour’s rest and then went across to the shop for Henry to go to Burchett’s Green, so at three quarters past 3 we sallied off to arrive at B. Green in plenty of time for tea. There was only Mr and Mrs and Frank at home. Left a little after tea and got home to Eversley all right. There was a stiff wind all day, but when going against it, I took it easy and so did not let it distress me.
Yesterday there was a magnificent total eclipse of the moon. The night being very clear, it was an exceptional time to observe it. It was totally eclipsed for over an hour.
50 miles
Monday October 6
West Court coachman called in and paid me his bill. Went to Sandhurst after dinner to look up a Mr Jenners. About 6 o’clock, Henry came over on hs bicycle bringing John with him on the old Timberlake. They stayed for about an hour and then off, John having to go back again tonight by the excursion from London.
8 miles
Tuesday October 7
Went to Wokingham after tea about business.
Wednesday October 8
Went to Wokingham about half past 3 and measured out the yard for the new building. Sent George to Jenning’s to buy his cart for £14.5.0. Had dark ride home.
10 miles
Thursday October 9
Goods came over. Martha left.
Friday October 10
Had two pigs from Mr Townsend. Was busy all day.
Sunday October 12
To Chapel in the morning where I heard an excellent sermon from a young man from Watch and Pray. For a walk with Tom in the afternoon. Left Bertha at Wokingham, she and her father going by the excursion to London tomorrow.
11 miles
Monday October 13
Up at 6 o’clock and did the booking. Had breakfast and then left for Wokingham on the bicycle, and joined Bertha and Mr Sale for the excursion to the Health Exhibition. The train left at 9.20. It was a very fine, bright day and we had a very good ride up. The Exhibition we cared little about, so left about 4 o’clock and walked to Charing Cross. Had tea, and then to the Drury Lane Theatre where we saw ‘The World’. Left Charing Cross at 12 o’clock and got home at 4 o’clock.
5 miles
Tuesday October 14
Came home by 9 o’clock. Went to Wokingham by trap after tea to see Henry, but he was out.
5 miles
Wednesday October 15
Went to Wokingham about 1 o’clock and arranged about the house for the cart etc. At 4 o’clock, Henry and I went to Burchett’s Green. Had tea and then a pleasant, though dark, ride home.
30 miles
Thursday October 16
Sent George for the new cart. Went by trap to Wokingham. Henry and Kemp came in to tea.
Friday October 17
Bertha and Mary to Wokingham and brought home Frances. I did some painting in the evening.
Saturday October 18
Painted the front room.
Sunday October 19
Was a splendid morning but dull in the after part of the day. I took a run to Fleet and Cove and then home by Frimley, a very pretty run. Starting off, I rather hurt my leg and so could not enjoy the riding much. Went to Chapel in the evening and heard Mr Scorey. George took my bicycle home and I came by trap.
14 miles
Monday October 20
To Wokingham by trap after dinner and saw Mr Henderson about the cart shed. Bertha, who had gone to Reading, came back with me.
Tuesday October 21
George went by carrier to Wokingham and thence to Reading to see about a horse. Davis came over to whitewash. I called upon Glazier and then to Sandhurst.
10 miles
Wednesday October 22
Had breakfast and at half past 8, was off for Basingstoke to attend the Court. Had a very pretty ride there and got my business over sharp so that at 11 o’clock, I was on my way back, and home by half past 12. After dinner, to Wokingham to see Henry but he was out with Kemp round Marlow and Henley. Had tea and then home and sent George and Winkey in with the new cart. It has been a most magnificent day.
26 miles
Thursday October 23
Bertha drove to Wokingham and took George on his way to the County Court. Henry and I went for a ride to Fleet, Cove, Hawley and Yateley to see the beautiful tints of the autumn. Sent £15 to Lady Glass. Coming back, Winkey found half a sovereign in the grass. Took up £50 to Wixenford.
14 miles
Sunday October 26
Was wet in the early part of the morning but a strong wind coming up soon dried the road. Bertha and the rest went by trap to Wokingham and I on the bicycle. Went to Chapel in the evening. Had a very pleasant ride home.
11 miles
Wednesday October 29
After tea, I went to Sandhurst and bought some oats. Then on to Wokingham and did a lot of business and home again.
14 miles
Thursday October 30
Bertha and I drove to Wokingham and went to the sale at the Holt but did not buy anything. I went principally to see the horses.
1884
Sunday November 2
After cleaning up the bicycle, I went to Wokingham via the Well Coll, Easthampstead and Lock Farm. It was a very pretty ride, the weather being bright and mild and the roads excellent. Had dinner at the shop and at half past 3, Henry and I left for Marlow via Waltham. The sun shone until within a mile or so of Marlow, and the woods looked magnificent. We rested a while on Marlow Bridge, and much to our surprise, it began to rain, but left off again directly so we made the best our way home. We had a strong wind with us to Marlow and we when we got to B. Green coming home, it turned round and was again in our faces all the way home. Went to Chapel in the evening. Coming out I saw Stephen Sale who has just come home from India. He asked me up to supper as it was his only day at Wokingham, so I went and stayed until half past 10 and then came home.
43 miles
Monday November 3
Went to Wokingham after tea to the Fair.
11 miles
Wednesday November 5
Henry came over and did some painting.
Thursday November 6
Drove to Wokingham with some goods and brought some back.
Sunday November 9
To Wokingham in time for Chapel and heard a good sermon from Mr Woodrow on ‘To Whom then shall we go’. I stayed to the evening service but Bertha drove home while it was light.
11 miles
Monday November 10
Henry came over and did some painting. About half past 2, I started for Basingstoke. It was a beautiful day and the roads in perfect order and a very nice run I had. I went to see about Denham’s but Mr Lear was out and so, of course, the journey was for nothing. Had a tea and then a nice run home the same way as I went. Called in at Mr Porter. Got home at 6, and then went to see Mr Buckley about the fitting. Bertha drove to Wokingham and thence by train to Reading where she bought the cuckoo clock. She did not come home. Mr Ryder dropped in.
26 miles
Tuesday November 11
Henry came over again had a letter from Mr Dill so I went in after tea and had a dark ride in and out. Nevertheless, I enjoyed it. Road good. Settled Radford’s account with Mr Dill.
11 miles
Thursday November 13
To Wokingham and finished the Om house.
11 miles
Saturday November 15
Set George at the orders while I whitened the ceiling of the room in which we sleep. Had a very poor evening. Tom came over and had tea.
Sunday November 16
Was rather tired from yesterday’s work. Nevertheless, I went for a very nice run. Leaving Eversley at half past 10, I made my way to Elvetham, Crookham and near to Crondall, thence to Odiham and home through Hartley Row.
I rode the bicycle all the way round, and the only dismounts I made were to light my cigarettes. The weather was a little thick and misty and very pretty. The roads were white, smooth and hard, in fact perfect all the way. There was no wind at all, a most wonderful day for the time of year. I was very pleased with the run and felt it quite a feat riding all the way. This I suppose will be the last Sunday ride I shall have from here, and a splendid and remarkable one to wind up with.
Had dinner at the office and tea at Mrs Rainbow’s. Came home directly after.
36 miles
Wednesday November 19
After dinner to Wokingham and back to tea.
11 miles
Friday November 21
Was very poorly all day and quite knocked up in the evening.
Saturday November 22
Was much better and enjoyed the day especially as it was the last at Eversley. Had a good evening.
Sunday November 23
Up a little earlier than usual and all in to Wokingham for service. George went to Eversley to mind the house. As the boy, Winkworth, was taking the mare to be shod yesterday morning, he let her down and cut her knees badly. Slept at Wokingham.
5 miles
Monday November 24
Back to Eversley and did the booking and called upon some customers.
14 miles
Wednesday November 26
Henry and I went to Eversley on the bicycles, he to paint and I to pack up. To Sandhurst in the afternoon. Called upon Mrs Beeching and she refused the offer of the fittings. George and Winkworth brought the horse over ready for the journey tomorrow.
18 miles
Thursday November 27
Went the whole of the journey for orders.
Friday November 28
Had a rare busy day and did not finish the orders until 11 o’clock at night.
Saturday November 27
Started off in very good time and did the journey by 7 o’clock.
1884
Saturday December 4
After doing the journey, Jamie and I went to Reading and to Sanger’s circus and very much enjoyed the performance. Came home by a special train.
Wednesday December 8
Henry Rainbow left.
Tuesday December 23
Went to Eversley on the bicycle to finish off.
Thursday December 25 – Christmas Day
Henry and I went to Burchett’s Green and back before dinner. The roads were perfect and although there was a strong wind blowing against us there, we very much enjoyed the run. In the evening, I went booking.
Friday December 26
Was at the orders all the morning. After dinner, I took the horse and cart to Eversley to bring home the last loads. Went to Reading to the circus again and saw a pantomime.
Sunday December 28
Went out on Tom’s new omnicycle for a run round Elvetham which I quite enjoyed. The roads were in perfect order.
Monday December 29
Henry and I went to Eversley to give up possession to Overs. Came home with Eversley off my hands. After dinner, to Sandhurst by bicycle.
Tuesday December 30
To a meeting at the Lecture Room and had a very pleasant evening.
Wednesday December 31
Put new springs in the shop door hinges and made them go well.
Looking back upon the year just closed I can safely say it has been a most memorable one for weather. There has scarcely been a day the whole year through but the expression passed from nearly everyone ‘What a beautiful day’. Although we have had so much fine bright weather, yet just at the right time rain has come, and never kept on so as to tire us. The Spring was simply marvellous, day after day fine and calm. The Summer the like of which I fear we shall not see again, nearly all sunshine and yet not scorched up. The Autumn glorious, and the Winter right up to now, with the exception of one week, fine, clear and bright.
Edwin Butler Diaries 