1889

Tuesday January 1

This year commenced with Bertha still in bed, otherwise the lookout is quite as good and cheering as any other year.

Thursday January 3

Mrs Dallimore called to see Henry today.

Sunday January 6

After dinner, Henry and I, on the tandem, had a nice little run round Elvetham and Fleet. The day was very cold and frosty, and the roads hard and smooth. We saw several [word missing] on Fleet Pond, but none on the canal. The journey, though short, made us much more tired than a long ride in the summer.

24 miles – T

Wednesday January 16

I took Eva to Drury Lane and saw the pantomime ‘The Children in the Woods’. I cared for it the least of all the pantomimes I have seen there. We went up by the 4 o’clock cheap train and down by the 12 o’clock.

Thursday January 31

I have been very much off my usual health this month, and have had a good deal of rest, up late and Sundays in bed. Mr Briginshaw died and was buried in the Baptist Chapel this month. We have been communicating with several schools about Frances, but Mrs Donaldson, having to bring Sidney to Wokingham on his way to Mr Manners at Fleet, she has stopped with us for a week or two, and has taken Frances back to Trowbridge with her to attend a day school there. The weather has been against riding, though there have been some days would have done for it, but I could not avail myself of them, not being well enough for cycling.

Yesterday (Wednesday January 30) I went to the Crystal Palace to attend the Stanley Show. I went up by the 9.16 SER. Had a long time at the Palace, and no meals, and came home very bad. I had to borrow 10/- at the station because I left £1.0.0 out of 30/- at home. It was a very large show, but nothing at all new. I saw the pantomime ‘Cinderella’, a poor piece, and I also saw some very clever trapeze performers.

Thursday February 14

I had a very wet day for the journey and got home late. My hat, which I had taken great care of ever since I had it, got crushed in the cart and utterly spoiled. I have done little, and nothing worth reporting for a long time, so I have not kept up the diary.

Friday February 15

Have been wretched all day and a prey to fever. Was thankful for the work to occupy my mind.

Saturday February 16

A day I hope I shall never forget. This week, we have been preparing for stocktaking.

Sunday February 17

To Chapel this morning and heard a stranger. Had a very happy and calm day at home. The weather was beautifully warm and balmy, so I took the opportunity of driving Bertha out this afternoon. This is the first time she has been downstairs this year. We enjoyed the ride and had a nice evening after.

Monday February 18

Henry and I took stock today, and got through the job very comfortably. Oh, how different I went about the job from what I experienced last Friday and Saturday. I have much, yes very much to be thankful for, and I am happy.

Wednesday February 19

I took Bertha to Tangley, thence to Barkham and Sindlesham with the cart and mare. We had a nice ride, in spite of a very heavy shower of rain which came on at Sindlesham.

Sunday February 24

Took a walk with Mr Phillips to his farm this afternoon. I caught a cold waiting about for him. It was a wintery afternoon and the snow fell quite thick coming home.

Wednesday February 26

I went by the 6 o’clock train to Reading to see ‘Dorothy’ at the theatre. I was disappointed in the piece. Came home by the late train.

Thursday February 28

I did the journey, and very bad I was too. I was afraid should I not be able to get round for my head was so bad. It was a very rough, wet and snowy day.

1889

Monday March 4

Office taken in change. I sent off the tandem to be enamelled. Mr Phillips and I, on his tandem, took a run round Toutley and Warren House in the afternoon, but it was hard going, the roads being bad.

6 miles – T

Saturday March 9

Eva, who had been ill for the past month, was taken very much worse today, and Dr Hicks was called in.

Monday March 11

The roads being good, I had a ride on Tom’s new machine to Finchampstead and back after tea, and a nice little run it was too.

9 miles

Wednesday March 13

The roads being good, I took a run on Tom’s omnicycle and enjoyed the evening very well. I went to Eversley, up to the Flats and thence to Elvetham, by the school and to the left on to the Fleet road, and back up to the Flats again, and so home. I worked it all the way round, even up that obstinate hill from the Fleet road to the Flats, and the road was damp and heavy there, though all the rest was in first class condition. There was little to see in the way of flowers, only the crocus in the gardens.

20 miles

Sunday March 17

Missionary services were held at our Chapel today. Mr J. B. Meyers preached in the morning and I was there to hear him. Being a very nice day, I thought I would take a ride round on the bicycle, so I had dinner at the shop, then came home and had a rest until ¼ to 3 when I got up and had a cup of tea and at a little before ½ past 3, I mounted the bicycle, and made my way to Finchampstead, and from thence to Yateley and Frimley. It was a splendid afternoon, and the wind, which was West, rather helped me. The range of hills on the left going to Yateley looked very fine today, the College and the buildings showing up better now than in the summer when this was more hid by the foliage. It was very merry going from Frimley to Farnborough. My idea was to go to Guildford, but when I got to the Ash road, so much of my time had gone that I though it unwise to venture so far tonight, so I took the road over the railway and canal and rode as far as the bridge over the Farnham line. From the canal to this line is very pretty and the road good. It skirts the large lake through which the canal runs. From here, I got down to push. The road is very sandy and all uphill until it reaches the Frimley and Guildford road at the top of the sandy hill. This walk is through a very wild part of the country. I was well repaid for my walk up for the view tonight from the Frimley ridge is very extensive and grand. I cannot recall quite such a view to mind. Casting my eye westward, I saw the Castle, the Cathedral and mausoleum at Farnborough in the midst of a blaze of fire, kindled by the setting sun pouring its evening blessing through a rift on the clouds, and as my vision wandered south, I saw, down in the hollow, North camp studded with its soldiers’ dwellings, beyond which lay Aldershot, and the castle and hills round about Farnham, while over and beyond Tongham and Ash, rose the mighty Crooksbury Hill.

Then stretching eastward was the long range of the Hog’s Back, which did not quite shut out the view of the Devil’s Jumps and Hind Head. I saw where the Hog’s Back breaks suddenly down into Guildford to let the River Wey pass through between it and the magnificent range of hills which stretch right away to Dorking and far beyond, and there was St Martha’s perched right on the top of the higher of these hills, causing it to appear as though the hill had been formed to hold the little church in the sky. As my eye left Guildford reposing between these two mighty ranges, and travelled still eastward along these mountains to Dorking until I faced where the sun rises, I saw in the great valley of the Thames as I looked over the wild heather and commons of Bagshot, Chobham and Pirbright, the towns of Brookwood, Woking, Chertsey and Addlestone, the cemetery and the asylum at Brookwood, and down, right down in the bottom, lay the canal.

I do not wonder at it requiring 19 locks to keep the water up to the high ground by Frimley, which place, and Broadmoor lay before me as I now mounted the bicycle and faced north for home. The roads were excellent and I went along at a rattling good pace to Blackwater and then steady for home. It was a short but very enjoyable ride.

26 miles – B

Monday March 18

As the tandem frame has come back from Coventry, I went down to Tom’s and commenced putting the machine together again.

Wednesday March 20

I went to London with Geo Woods by the cheap train 3/6 and called upon his dentist, Mr Morgan, and had four teeth out and a cast taken for a set of teeth for the upper jaw. Came home by the 3.48, and did a little more to the tandem in the evening.

Thursday March 21

Was such a wet day that I sent Bayliss the journey because I was afraid of catching a cold in my gums.

Sunday March 24

Had a nice little run round Bramshill Park in the evening. Had tea at Mrs Christie’s.

16 miles – B

Monday March 25

Henry went to Woodley to value a business there. Mr Phillips and I, on his tandem, to the Flats and back. The roads were bad and the machine went hard and very unenjoyable.

14 miles – T

Wednesday March 27

Went to London to see the dentist again. Rode to Bracknell on the bicycle and took the 4.5 train, did my business and home again by the 12.40 from Waterloo.

1889

Monday April 1

Went to London and brought home my teeth.

Wednesday April 3

Bayliss left and Mr Chappell came. Of course, it is a wet day. Carrington has backed out of the early closing and has issued circulars to that effect, and we were afraid it might cause the rest to follow, but fortunately it has not had that effect, all closing as usual at 4 o’clock. Of course, it is wet and unrideable, that we look for this year.

Wednesday April 17

A cycle club has been formed and Henry is a member of it. Today is the first run, and Henry and I joined them on the tandem. We went to Barkham, Shinfield, White Knights and home the Reading road. Had a liquer up the Merry Maidens. There were something like a dozen of us and we all enjoyed the little run very much. The roads were very good but the weather was like all the rest of the year – very dull and miserable.

16 miles

Friday April 19 – Good Friday

Up at the same time as usual, and found a very fine and bright day awaiting me, so I went across to the shop and arranged with Henry for a run to Compton, then called upon Tom to see if he would accompany us, which he declined. We had a bread and cheese lunch and then off at ½ past 11. We went via Eversley and Farnborough to Ash, up on to the Hog’s Back and towards Farnham, as far as the turning to Seale, which turning we took and made our way to Compton. It was very pretty all along these lanes, and the first part of the road good, but from Seale to Puttenham was a sandy lane, along which we had to push a greater part of the way. This we did not mind, for we had plenty of time, and did not wish to travel too far today, because being the first time out this year, we did not feel equal to a long day’s run. We very much enjoyed pottering along in this pretty valley, and many pretty and interesting little pieces of scenery we came across.

There was one farmer with a fine large and well kept house which pleased me much. I got off here and went round the farm yard to see if anyone was about who could direct us as to our course, for the lane seemed to end here, but no one being there, we took the only way we could see which was through the gateway and a long lane which led us out into a pretty open valley where there was a little stream with its green meadows. This was a lovely little spot, and it looked well in the nice light and warm morning. At last, we came to the Jolly Farmer at Puttenham where we had a pint of ale and some biscuits, and then a lay down on the green for an hour. This was uncommonly jolly, and very nice it was basking out in the warm sunshine sheltered from what little wind there was by the surrounding hills. Here we lay smoking our pipes and listening to the birds as they sang, and watching the geese and chickens on the green before us. I felt quite loathe to move from this spot.

However, I had to, and soon after found myself at Puttenham and in the Coffee House. Mr and Mrs Hawkins were very busy today. I should think there were 40 to 50 people there while we were there. Henry went to a short service at the church, and then back to a tea. We then took a walk round before mounting for home. We left about ½ past 5 and made our way to Guildford over the Hog’s Back. At Guildford we overtook a party on a wagonette who had sat down to tea with us at Compton. From Guildford we came home via the ridges, Frimley and Crowthorne. Our legs ached very much before we reached home, and we had to slow up several times for a rest. The day was gloriously fine and bright and warm, with a nice balmy breeze, but the evening was not quite so good, for it came up more windy and less bright. We enjoyed the day uncommonly well and were thankful for it. As we had not been for a run before, this year, of course the riding told a little upon us.

48 miles

Saturday April 20

I did not start until late for the journey because I had to do some of the orders this morning. However, I got round alright.

Sunday April 21

Very windy and cold and some rain in the afternoon. After tea, I drove Bertha to New Mill and round Eversley home. I went to take Mrs Norris bacon, and also called at Stapletons and left some oranges and saw Mr and Mrs Geo Chandler. We enjoyed our ride very well.

Monday April 22 – Bank Holiday

The day began fine, and I felt disposed for a run, but had no one to go with me. I called upon Tom but he was going with the rest to Virginia Water. Henry was with the Volunteers on Hartford Flats. So, instead of going for a run, I took Bertha for a drive in the trap. I had a few things to take to Wixenford which I took in the cart. Then I put the grey pony in the chaise and started Mr Jelley, Frances, Hilda and Minnie’s little girl off for a drive round. At about 2 o’clock, Bertha and I drove off, taking our tea with us. We drove to the Flats and saw the Hampshire Volunteers march past on their way home, and also the Inns of Court Corps. It was quite cold driving to the Flats and when we got there, it rained a little but cleared off before we left for Elvetham, and then came out very nice and bright and warm. We put up at the Barley Mow, walked along the canal path to Dogmersfield, there sat down on the bank, made a fire of dry sticks and warmed up the tea, got out the bread and butter and had a lovely tea by the banks of the water. The sun shone out really hot, and then we sat basking in the heat, really thankful for the shelter of our umbrella. I brought ‘Walden’ with me and read a little. After a nice long rest, we walked a little way further up the canal and then back to the Barley Mow and had the trap put to and drove home having spent a very happy afternoon out. To me, and I think to Bertha also, the day has been quite a success. Mr Jelley drove his charge to Sonning and a little further, and they enjoyed themselves.

Wednesday April 24

I drove Bertha round Easthampstead this evening. The weather was cold and showery.

1889

Wednesday May 1

The roads were hardly dry from the days of rain they have had lately. Henry went over to see his friend at Barkham. I and Chappell to Marlow and back on the tandem. The cherry blossom was out in places, but scarcely anything else.

28 miles

Sunday May 5

The morning was hot and bright and gave promise of a grand day, so Henry and I arranged to go to Hook Common in the afternoon and have tea and a walk about. We left a little after 3 o’clock, a strong wind having sprung up, and by the time we reached our camp ground the sun was obscured with clouds, so instead of having the weather too hot, it was a little too cool. I made a fire with dry sticks and soon warmed up the tea and we had a pleasant cup. We should have liked it better if the sun had come out more. We heard the nightingale and cuckoos and the many other birds, After tea, a walk round, then a ride to Greywell and Wanborough, and home the same route as going. We enjoyed the turn out very well indeed. Going down Star Hill, Henry had his shoe ripped in two by the pedal while his feet were in the rests.

30 miles

Tuesday May 7

Up at 6, came over to the shop and made a cup of cocoa, and then Mr Chappell and I on the tandem for a run to Hurst and Sandford bridge, a pretty little morning run. This is the first time I have been up to breakfast this year.

18 miles

Wednesday May 8

Mr Chappell’s machine came down today. Mr Phillips arranged with Tom to go for a ride with us this afternoon. The weather was a little bit dull during the day, but came out wonderfully well after 4 o’clock. It was about ½ past 4 when we started, Tom and Mr Phillips on the Psycho, [illegible word] and Henry and I on our own. We set the handle bars for the much frequented course to Eversley and straight up on to the Flats and away to Fleet pond, thence to Crookham and Crondall and home through Odiham and Hartley Row. We had splendid weather all the way round, and the roads perfect. From the Flats all the way to Odiham, was entirely new ground to Mr Phillips. The country looks very beautiful now and very many pretty sights we saw and appreciated. The gorse was one great feature of the run that was very magnificent, perhaps never better than this year. We had a liquer up at Crondall, then a walk round the church. We all felt up to work, and very much enjoyed each other’s company.

It was particularly fine between Odiham and Winchfield along the old road. We heard, I should think, half a dozen nightingales at once, all on strong along here. In fact, we heard the nightingale all the way round. It was very beautiful travelling through the splendid country, seeing the pretty sights and hearing this multitude of birds singing, and it made it all the more pleasant having company and knowing they were enjoying it too. We travelled around at a rattling good pace. Tom and Mr Phillips said it was racing. It went uncommonly easy and I did not feel at all fatigued. I must put this run down as a great success.

Sunday May 12

Was a deuced bad day, cold and wet. I went to Chapel twice, marked out the texts and caught a bad cold.

Tuesday May 14

I sent Mr Chappell to Reading to hire a Safety bicycle to practise on. He had to walk it all the way home because he could not ride it. I went out in the evening with him, and gave him a little help, so that by the time he came in, he could get along very well on it.

Wednesday May 15

There was an endeavour to make a special club run to Windsor today, and Henry and I were going, but at last decided to go with Tom and Mr Phillips to Marlow and Henley. They left at 4.20, and we at 4.45. We put along at a very good pace against a slight east wind and did not stop until we overtook Tom and Mr Phillips between Burchett’s Green and Marlow. We sat on the bridge and admired the scenery a little too long to be good for us, then had tea at the corner shop. Mr Phillips brought some tongue sandwiches with him, which were acceptable. I did not feel up to my usual pitch and so could not enjoy the run to the full. I think the others enjoyed it well. How much the country has come out since Mr Chappell and I were over this way a fortnight ago.

Sunday May 19

I was going for a ride this evening but the afternoon came over dull and developed into wet, so I could not go.

Monday May 20

Henry, Kemp and Geo Woods were going for a tour round Wallingford and Henley, but the prospect last night made them decide not to go. However, today turned out hot and bright, so Henry and I made up our minds to go to Selborne after dinner. Seeing Mr Phillips, we arranged with him to come also, he and Henry on our tandem and I on the bicycle.

At 5 past 2, we made a start in glorious weather and made good time to within a mile of Selborne, when, just as we had ascended the last long hill and had entered on the straight road, we met a pony and trap with a lady driving, and just as it neared the tandem, the pony turned right across the road and the tandem drew up suddenly, and I went to do the same on the bicycle but put the brake on a little too hard and so caused the machine to take a header, and I came down on my chest and right arm and hurt both very much.

However, we mounted again and rode into Selborne and we went down the Long Lythe and had tea down by the stream. We sat there an hour and then took a little walk towards the Priory Farm and back to the Queen’s Arms, which made 7 o’clock of it, so we got out our machines and made a start for home. My arm was so bad that I could not mount without assistance, but then I got along very well indeed and did not dismount until I reached The Golden Pot where I had a liquer up. We came along sharp to South Warnborough and got home at ½ past 10 without any further accident. It would have been a very nice turn out, but my fall thoroughly upset it and spoilt the other pleasure, and most decidedly my own. As the tandem was entering Odiham on the way home, a bicyclist who was on the wrong side, and endeavouring to right himself, fell, but apparently did not hurt himself. Apart from my hurt, I was very sorry to have had the fall, for it spoilt what would otherwise have been a successful afternoon’s outing. The roads and the weather were very good and I felt first rate until the accident.

52 miles – B

Tuesday May 21

Felt the effects of my fall so that I could not work.

Wednesday May 22

Being very much persuaded to see a doctor to ascertain if any bones were broken, Bertha drove me to Reading in the evening and I called upon Dr Young who examined me and gave me some lotion for 2/6. We had a nice drive home via Woodley and the Loddon.

Sunday May 26

The work during the last three days has tried me a good deal, and today I have been in bed not feeling able to get up. It was a very dull looking day, and I quite enjoyed being in bed in the warm. Mr Jelley came down in the evening by GWR to Twyford and then walked over.

Monday May 27

Mr Jelley left here about 6 this morning to catch an early train from Twyford to London. Heavy rain set in during the night, and he had a tremendously wet journey. I kept in bed nearly all day.

Wednesday May 29

Was a wet and cold day

Thursday May 30

Mr Chappell did the journey, my arm being too bad to get up and down the cart.

1889

Sunday June 2

Mr Phillips lent me his new tricycle last night, and this morning being fine and bright, I took a ride round Moss End and Waltham before service. It was a most enjoyable ride, and as I came home very hot, I did not go to Chapel. Henry and I had an early tea to enable us to go for a run, but the weather looked like rain and so we waited and a good job we did for it came over a regular wet evening, so I went to Chapel and Lord’s Supper.

12 miles

Monday June 3

I put a new shaft to the little cart, but did it under difficulties because my arm is so weak and somewhat painful. After shop hours, Mr Chappell, on his Safety, and I on Mr Phillips’ tricycle, had a splendid run to Easthampstead and home by Col. Peel’s. It was a splendid evening and the roads excellent, so no wonder we enjoyed the hour out.

11 miles

Tuesday June 4

Up and for a run before breakfast, with Mr Chappell to Binfield and Billingbear. And again, after shop hours, Henry and I, on the tandem, and Mr Chappell on his Safety, ran over to Bracknell, Easthampstead and home by Col. Peel’s, a very delightful ride, on a very pretty evening.

Wednesday June 5

Henry had to attend a Volunteers Drill this evening so could not go for a ride. Mr Chappell and I went to Odiham and on the canal where we had tea in the boat. The weather was very bright and hot when we left Wokingham, but came over cloudy by the time we reached the water. I borrowed an overcoat off Mr Porter and found the benefit of it on the water. We had a pleasant two hours there and then came home via the camp ground and Hook Common. Quite an enjoyable evening this was.

Thursday June 6

George did the barracks round and I the Eversley. I got done as soon as I could because we are going to camp on Saturday and I want to get forward. The day has been very hot and the evening, a very heavy thunderstorm has been all around, but with very little rain.

Friday June 7

Henry has got nearly everything ready for camp. The weather has been threatening all day and this evening, a heavy storm came over and has broken up the hot weather.

Saturday June 8

The day has been dull and thick. Henry got Kemp and Tom off by 1 o’clock. We had a capital evening in the shop, busy right up to ½ past 9, at which time Henry and I left on the tandem. We had several friends to see us off, and a very enjoyable journey over to the camp ground. The day, which has been so overcast, cleared off considerably, and the moon came peeping out now and then and gave promise of a grand and hot day tomorrow. Arriving at the encampment, we found all things ready and Kemp and Tom in good spirits. Mr Rednall drove over and arrived a little before 12, bringing with him a gallon of cider. We had supper, and then to bed.

The nightingales were on strong, and did not leave off until some time after we were in bed, and then again about 3 o’clock in the morning, all the birds were at it hammer and tongs, the nightingales, thrushes, blackbirds, blackcaps, cuckoos, caprimulgus and all the others, a very grand chorus. It was very delightful to hear them on so merrily, and it seemed to us to indicate a better day although now the moon was still hid by the NE clouds.

Sunday June 9

The morning came, and with it the overcast NE sky, and the air cool, so we did not turn out early. A little after 6 o’clock, Kemp turned out, and presently Chappell drove over on his Safety. He made himself a cup of cocoatina and cooked a couple of rashers and had a very good breakfast, then left for Alton. We still lay abed until nearly ½ past 9, when we got up to a very nice breakfast which we had in the tent, for it was much too dull and cold to have it in the open. Mr Kemp’s opinion was that the weather would come out hot presently, but that it did not. By the time we had cleaned up breakfast, it was time for Tom to get off to Odiham to church, and Henry, Rednall and I for a walk, Mr Kemp preferring to stay at home and mind the tent and boil the potatoes.

We directed our course to Greywell, going at a very leisure pace and admiring the pretty gardens all along, and especially the roses. We stayed some time at the Mill, and dabbled about down by the water, took a stroll along the banks of the lake, where we saw a large quantity of pike and heard the moorhens and dabchicks and other aquatic sounds, then turned back through the meadows to the Church and home by Greywell village again. It was a very pleasant walk.

We took it very quietly and did not get back until near upon 2 o’clock. All the morning seemed to promise a clearing away of the thick canopy of North East clouds which have been hanging over us since Thursday night, but as the afternoon came on, all hopes of it doing so today were dispelled for it got thicker and more dense. We had a really good dinner, then a lay down until tea time. After tea, Tom went to Odiham again to church, and the rest for a walk to Crondall. I stayed at home and put all the things tidy and straight in the tent.

While I was doing so, a gentleman and his daughter came up who I rightly took to be General Charlton, the owner of Butter Wood and the Common. We had a conversation, the drift of it being that he had ordered all the gypsies off the common and that in fairness he could not let us there unless we got his permission. This I said we should be only too pleased to do, and should have to do so now, but did not know the place had changed hands, I having some time ago obtained Miss Piggott’s permission, the lady who he has since married.

It was 10 o’clock before the party got back from Crondall, and then by the time we had had supper, and got the beds down, it was midnight. The weather, as the evening wore on, grew worse and worse, and before we lay down, the wind blew strong and it began to rain. It was too cold for the birds tonight and all was as still as in the autumn. The night was dark and wet.

Monday June 10 – Whit Monday

The morning was as bad a morning as one could imagine – cold, grey, with a strong NE wind blowing, and raining. We did not turn out of bed until 9 o’clock because the weather was so bad, but if the weather was bad, the breakfast was good, and did us good in body and spirit. Of course, we had it in the tent with closed curtains and as we looked out and saw the band drive by to Odiham club, our pity was drawn too not only for the poor things at Odiham, but the many thousands who were disappointed on this Whit Monday. We did not hurry over our repast, so that it was 11 o’clock before we were ready to move out. We got a boy to mind the tent, and then we all took a walk to Basing going via Newnham. Tom and I, fortunately brought our mackintoshes, and arrayed in these, we were able to defy the weather. It was a beautiful walk from Newnham to Old Basing, over a road we, none of us, had been before, and we saw the country under such circumstances as we seldom see it, for the wind blew a strong gale from the NE and the rain drove across the fields, the trees bent down before the blast, and all the country looked big and grand. At Old Basing, we sat on a cart shed and had a little rest while we looked out on the water in front and the mown grass in the fields beyond, which would no doubt have been taken up today had the weather been fine, but it was not fine and the grass had to stay. We came back by the canal to the King’s Head on the Basingstoke road, and then by the road home. It must have been 3 before we got back to the tent, and so, what with dinner and a lay down after, it made it 7 o’clock before tea was over. At 9, Mr Rednall, and then we attempted a walk to Hook but were driven back. No birds at all tonight. We have enjoyed ourselves very well today, but it has been the very worst Bank Holiday there has been. Cold, with a dull grey sky, a gale of wind and driving wet all day alike.

Tuesday June 11

Looked out and found the same weather awaiting us, only with less wind. Again we had a late breakfast, then got a boy to mind the tent while we took a walk to South Warnborough. We went first to Greywell where we saw a cow jump over the fence at the farm from which I took sketch of two years ago. This way much pleased Mr Kemp. From Greywell, we went a new way into Warnborough and a magnificent pretty way it was too, especially as it led down into the village. As we were up in high ground and looked down into the village, and up at the hills beyond, it looked like a [illegible word] scene, and then as we sat in the porch of the Church and looked at the hill in front of us covered with trees, which looked very massive in the mist and rain, I think I have seldom seen a prettier sight.

There was the village down below and the hills rising immediately behind it covered with chestnut and elm trees interspersed with the larch fir, and the fine rain driving across gave it a beauty we shall not forget soon. It was an alpine scene all in a handful. We all said it was worth the day out to see this alone for I doubt if we shall ever see it again under such a beautiful aspect. We came home by the main road until half way up the last hill leading to Odiham when we turned to the left which brought us close to the Odiham Clump, and down to North Warnborough and so home. It was a very pretty view from the clump of trees looking homewards over, what Kemp rightly called Flanders. From start to finish, we thoroughly enjoyed this walk. I should say it was the best we have ever had.

We were independent, and indifferent about the weather. We did not want it to come out fine now, and so we thoroughly enjoyed the run, and we certainly saw some very lovely sights in nature and views as good as we could not get on a fine day. The trees were large and massive, and all the foliage splendidly clean. The hedgerows were like forests for all the things we must [illegible word] this year. We were not fatigued, and with everything, there was a lovely softness which soothed the mind and pleased the eyes. Again, it was late when we got home and very late before we had done dinner, a lay down and tea. Henry, Tom and Kemp went to Hook and saw the club which was held there at the Raven. This was after tea and while they were gone, I got the stove in the tent and warmed the place up, which not only warmed the tent but dried it considerably. I put everything tidy and straight and enjoyed a pipe by the fire while I read ‘Romany Rye’. When the others came in, they much appreciated the warmth and comfort of the tent and we sat there and had a pleasant chat over our supper until midnight.

Wednesday June 12

The wind still NE but much milder and the sky more luminous. We had breakfast out in the open, the first meal we have had outside the tent. After the meal, Tom, Henry and I went a walk, Mr Kemp preferring to mind the tent. We started quietly to Greywell, and much enjoyed the roses and flowers in the garden along there. On a gate overlooking the pond we sat a long time listening to the reed sparrow, the dab chicks and the many water sounds. On a stump close at hand, we had a good view of a reed bunting and saw him catch a beetle. It was very warm and pleasant sitting there, and we were almost afraid the sun was coming out. In fact, he did for a few minutes, but soon went back again. We should have been sorry to have the sun come out now, for we have seen nothing of him all the time we have been at camp, and we should not like him to come out just as we were about to leave. We walked back by the canal and had a very pleasant time out this morning. We placed the table under the trees and had dinner in the open air, then by the time we had washed up, it was time to see about packing things together, which we did quietly and easily. After a cup of tea and a little talk over the battle we had fought with nature, we went up for the pony and cart, and packed all in and were off nice and early.

From the time we left Wokingham until we left camp, we had not one hour’s sunshine or moonshine. The wind was NE all the time, and as far as the weather was concerned, it could not be worse. But weather has not everything to do with enjoyment, for looking back upon the camp, we had a very pleasant time and all enjoyed it. We made the most of what we had. Mr Kemp was cheerful from beginning to end, and quite surpassed himself. He always saw the sun shining a few hours ahead and nothing daunted with expected failure, he continued to prophesy a glorious hot day presently. I think he uttered not a word of complaint, but very, very much enjoyed his walks.

The provisions, as usual were excellent, and everything that was wanted was there. We had two nice well behaved boys to mind the tent. They were ever ready to do anything for us, and when we went away, they begged of us to come again in their holidays. These two little boys were favourite with us all, even Mr Kemp spoke highly of them. Well, we did not leave the camp without some feelings of regret, and hope of again returning. This has been a camp of walks. The weather was such that we could do nothing else. As I have said, we very much enjoyed ourselves, but we had not what we went for.

We went early this year to hear the birds and see all nature alive. To be up early in the morning and see the sunrise, to watch the rabbits gambol about, to see the haymakers at work, and pluck the wild flowers. To lay about in the June sun and have a few days of early summer. To have the moon shining on the tent during the shortest night and listen to the midsummer night sounds. But we had nothing of what we went for and so were disappointed, and could not enjoy to the full that which we did here. Had we not gone with these expectations, we should have much more enjoyed ourselves.

We had reason to expect fine weather and did not get it. We went out to enjoy nature, to see her all sunny and bright and gay, and we found her cold, grey and weeping. We had a nice run home and found the roads very much better than we expected. The trap got home in good time too. I was very pleased to find all the journeys good, ready for the morrow.

13 miles

Sunday June 16

A nice bright day with the wind still NE. Henry and I had an early tea, and then off on the tandem to the Flats, Elvetham, Dogmersfield, Odiham, Greywell, Hook and home. A most enjoyable and pretty ride. We went this way to see how the run to South Warnborough, by the way we walked last Tuesday, would look on a sunny day, but it did not look so grand and lovely as in the wet. We had a liquer up at the Plough, and then over, to us, a piece of new road to Upton Grey and Greywell. Very pretty and much we enjoyed it. It was a beautiful evening out. The scent of the wild flowers, the honeysuckle and the beans was delightful. This was an evening run we both appreciated. We enjoyed going over the campgrounds again. Coming back through Greywell, we were cheered by a party of matrons.

40 miles

Wednesday June 19

Henry and I on the tandem, and Mr Phillips on his tricycle, had a pleasant run to Old Basing. We went via Heckfield, Mattingley, Rotherwick and Newnham. The piece from Newnham to Basing, which we thought so grand when we walked it last week, did not impress us so much tonight. Of course, it was very beautiful but not so grand as I expected. That, like the piece to S Warnborough, looked better in the storm than the sunshine. The perfume of the beans along this piece was delightful. We had a liquer up and some bread and cheese at Basing, thence home by Hartley Row. I enjoyed the run very much indeed, and did not get tired.

34 miles

Friday June 21

I had a very nice little run after 7 o’clock round Finchampstead, Well Coll and Easthampstead on Mr Chappell’s Safety.

10 miles

Sunday June 23

Mr Chappell lent me his Safety so I took the opportunity of a morning run, and had a most splendid one too. I left here about 10 o’clock and made my way to Binfield via Buckhurst, from Binfield to Cabbage Hill, up which I worked the little machine, although the hill was in a very rough state, I suppose from the Ascot traffic. At the foot of the hill, I took the road to the left by Moss End, up Hawthorn Hill and to the left to Touchen End, back again and to the right to Waltham, and then all about the lanes and roads there. At first the weather looked like coming in wet, but it soon cleared off, and came out a most lovely morning.

I had no definite direction when I started but went just where opportunity took me, and I don’t know when I have enjoyed a Sunday morning more than this. I very much enjoyed exploring the roads round from Moss End to Waltham, and as I roamed at will up and down these lanes, I enjoyed a delightful sense of freedom, and felt inspired with an exploring spirit, making me feel quite a second Stanley.

I gathered, at Billingbear Park, and wore home a very handsome foxglove, which was much admired by the passengers I met and passed on the road home. I arrived in good time for dinner, had a rest and then over for Henry. At 5 o’clock we started off on the tandem for Marlow and had a pretty ride over there, and a long rest on the bridge, watching the boats. Marlow church is undergoing repairs, the roof is quite stripped. To Henley was very pretty and easy going, and so it was from there home. It has been a nice day, and very much I have enjoyed it.

20 miles – S; 32 miles – T = 52 miles

Tuesday June 25

After tea, Henry and I had a ride on the tandem. We directed our course to Barkham and Swallowfield, where, at the bridge, I took out a broke ball from the bearing while Henry had a pipe on the bridge. From Swallowfield, we went direct to Mattingley and Hook, over the Common to the White House and down to the camp ground, where we had a rest for a half hour under the trees beneath which we pitched our tent. It was very hot up to this place, and now, sitting here, I got a little bit cold, which somewhat upset me for the rest of the journey. At Odiham, I called in at Mrs Figgins and after a liquer up, we proceeded home. Had a splendid run from the Flats to Eversley bridge.

32 miles

Wednesday June 26

We went on the water at Wargrave. Millie, Lilly and Norah in the chaise, Bertha, Hilda and Frances in the trap, Chappell on his Safety, and Henry and I on the tandem. We had a very pleasant two hours on the water, and a nice run over there and back, and I think we all enjoyed the outing. The weather was just right for the job. We had a much better turn out than the club which went to Windsor to the R.A.S.C. show, and found the roads so cut up that it was almost impossible to ride on them. I took a can of tea, which came in quite acceptable on the water. We got home in good time.

14 miles

Sunday June 30

At 4 o’clock, Jamie Sale and I, after having tea, mounted the tandem and made our way to Odiham, a very pleasant ride. We there took a boat and went up the canal to Pilcot, thence Crondall and warmed up the tea, and had an enjoyable meal by the canal side, then back to Odiham. It was very nice on the water, and we very much enjoyed the three hours we had there. We did not take the direct way home, but went round by Dogmersfield Park and Pilcot, through Hartley Row and Eversley. It was a very nice summer evening ride and we both enjoyed it much. How nice the hay smelt.

1889

Wednesday July 3

I did nothing this evening for I had a parcel to take to Lady Glass this morning and I went on Tom’s omnicycle and that about did me up, so that I did not feel like going out again after tea.

12 miles

Sunday July 7

To Chapel in the morning. After tea, for a ride on the Safety to the Flats, Blackwater and home via Crowthorne and Col. Peel’s. The roads were not good enough for Henry. I found them excellent, and enjoyed the little run round.

22 miles

Monday July 8

Bertha and I went by the excursion to Margate, but were very nearly too late. We both had a very restless night, and just when we ought to have got up, we fell asleep, and it was nigh upon 6 o’clock before we turned out, and the time for the departure of the train was ½ past 6. Breakfast was all ready, and I soon was down and had mine, but Bertha had to take hers while she was being dressed. We ran to the station, and as we were going, saw Geo Woods hurry down. Arriving at the station, we found the train waiting there, and Geo Woods already seated and looking out for us. Just as the train started, which it did some minutes before its time, Tom made his appearance and jumped into our carriage just in time. This train started from Wokingham, and another followed by a ¼ of an hour after from Reading, so if we had missed this, we should have been in time for the other. The train was composed of all new carriages fitted with cushions etc. We had no more passengers to pick up, and only stopped at Shalford (for water), Redhill, Canterbury and Pegwell Bay (to collect tickets). It was a splendid fast run down and we reached Margate a few minutes after 10 o’clock. The morning was showery but did not look like a wet day, nor did we have a wet day, only a shower for ¼ hour about 1 o’clock. It looked very uninviting when we landed at Margate, for the roads were muddy and the pavement wet with the rain which had already fallen. Tom and George got out at Canterbury, but Bertha and I went straight on to Margate and at once made our way to John’s and had an hour or so there and then off to the sands until dinner time (2 o’clock). We had a good dinner, and then John, Tom, Mr Barkman and I for a walk along the sand, and Tom and I had a bathe. We went on until we met Geo Woods who had taken a walk by himself, then back to tea, and a hurry off to the station to catch the first train home – 6.45 – which we just did, and had a compartment to ourselves. We came home at express rate, staying only at Canterbury for a few minutes until we came to Tonbridge, where we stayed a short time because the line was blocked.

I enjoyed this run as much as I ever remember to have enjoyed a train ride. We came along at express rate all the way, no slackening. The evening was very pretty, with very fine cloud effects and balmy and warm, and I was filled with delight as I put my head out and watched the steam and smoke lay over the line where we had just travelled, it being for miles like a cloud, and looked very pretty, and seemed to carry my thoughts back to other happy rides I have had along here.

We got home by 10.40 and neither Bertha nor I were tired or done up, and both of us enjoyed the whole of the day more than any other excursion we have been to. Beyond the fare, which was 4/- each (very cheap), we did not spend 4/- amongst us all four. Again, I must put upon record that the journey home was by far the best railway journey I have had.

Wednesday July 10

Was too showery for a ride on the tricycle so I took Bertha for a ride to Binfield and then came home and took the bicycle to pieces to clean it.

Sunday July 14

To Chapel in the morning and in the evening Henry and I were going to Hook to look up a fresh camp ground, but when we got to Hartley Row, the rain which had been threatening, came down and we had to take shelter at the White Lion for a half hour until it had gone over. We then retraced our way back. It was a nice little ride, and worth coming for.

18 miles – T

Tuesday July 16

About 5 o’clock, Henry and I made another attempt to get to Hook. Had a nice run over. Overtook Mr Phillips and Castle a little beyond and they came with us to Hook. Put our machines up at the Dorchester Arms and thence walked to the Common to select a spot for camp. The weather, which was bright and warm when we started, was now dull and very cold. I felt quite miserable wandering around the woods and common, and if we had come across a suitable spot, I am afraid I was in too much of a gloomy and cold mood to see it. We had refreshments at the Public House, cheese, biscuits and ale, and a cold and slow ride home.

26 miles – T

Wednesday July 17

Henry did not think the weather safe enough to venture out, so I borrowed Mr Chappell’s machine (he going to the Fete opposite the waterworks) and went to Finchampstead, and found the roads so good and the weather improved, that I came back for Henry to go also, but he would not, so I again made my way to Finchampstead intending to go to Wanborough Castle to see if it would do for a camp site, but when I got to Star Hill, I found that they had had a lot of rain that way and the roads were heavy with mud, so I turned back up the Flats, where it was dry, and had a most charming ride to Blackwater. I could not help thinking that the Flats was the place for the camp, and a splendid view round. I came home through Yateley, getting there along the road that leads into Blackwater just the Flats side of the station. I should have enjoyed the ride home more if I had not smoked quite so many pipes of tobacco.

20 miles – S

Thursday July 18

Took Bertha and Hilda the journey. It was a very nice day out.

Sunday July 21

Mr Jelley came down and stayed the evening. I settled with him and he with me.

Wednesday July 24

My Safety came down this morning, and considering the cost, a very nice machine. After 4 o’clock, Mr Chappell and I went for a ride in spite of the weather, which was dull and thundery. When we got to Finchampstead, we had to take shelter at the Royal Oak from a storm, which lasted a few minutes only, although when we went in, we thought it had set in for a wet night. From the Royal Oak, we went on over the Flats and along to Fleet Pond, thence to Farnborough, Hawley, Blackwater, Camberley, back to Blackwater and home by Crowthorne and Easthampstead. This was a very nice little turn out, much better than we expected to get tonight. With the wind at our back, we moved along at a good pace from the Flats to Farnborough.

Sunday July 28

Had a nice ride this morning. Went to Binfield, past Rev Stringer’s, on up Cabbage Hill to West End, Winkfield Church, just past which I came across a wagonette disabled. I suppose they had had an accident for the axle tree was bent so that it could not be wheeled along. From Winkfield, I went on towards Windsor, then turned back and went into the park and laid down for a few minutes and admired the castle and scenery. Came back through Winkfield to Cabbage Hill and then turned to the left down a lane and eventually came out at the top of Bracknell Street. I did not go for a ride in the evening, because I had arranged with Henry and Tom to go to Romsey tomorrow.

Mr Jelley came down this evening and had but a few minutes here. Going home, he was thrown out of the railway carriage at Feltham, and somewhat hurt.

Monday July 29

After a restless night, I turned out at 7 o’clock and found a wet looking morning, although there was not much rain. I should almost have been pleased to have seen it rain because I felt anything but in good order for a day’s outing. By the time I had had breakfast and had got across to the shop, the weather looked very much better, and after a consultation with Henry and Tom, we decided to go on our journey. It was about ½ past 9 by the time we started, and the weather looking A1. Henry and Tom occupied the tandem, and I rode the Safety. By the time we reached the White Horse, it was so warm that Henry and Tom took off their coats and waistcoats and rode in shirt sleeves. We went via Hartley Row. It was very pretty going down Star Hill, in fact so it was all the way. We had a few minutes rest on the canal bridge, and then away to Basingstoke, where at the Angel Coffee, we had dinner of cold ham and coffee.

After a wash up, we passed on to Worting, where there is a very prettily situated church, and this afternoon, in the hot sun, it looked particularly pretty and inviting, the ground being full of trees and flowers, tastefully arranged. Soon after leaving this place, we had a lay down by the roadside for ¼ of an hour. It was very pretty all along here, but from Oakley it was something to be remembered. It was lovely all the way to Whitchurch. Tom was particularly struck with the beauty of the villages down by the trout stream, and well he might be, for today was just the day for this now, bright, sunny and yet with some pretty clouds about, and underneath, the road perfection. As we stopped and looked over one of the bridges that cross the River Anton, we saw an innumerable quantity of trout. Here it was very beautiful.

At Whitchurch, we had tea in Bell Street at the place where Henry and I had it last year. They got us out a very good tea, with gooseberries and currants, but I could not do justice to it because I felt a little bit queer just then. From Whitchurch, we passed on towards Andover as far as Hurstbourne. There we turned to the left and right away through Longparish to Wherwell. This was one of the prettiest pieces I have been over, and very much we all enjoyed and appreciated the beautiful scenery and level and easy going road. From Wherwell, we came to Fullerton and then away to Stockbridge. I was disappointed in this piece of road. It was very rough and bumpy, and not so pretty as I thought it was. At Stockbridge we had a glass of ale. The town was decorated with flags because the Hampshire Volunteers were encamped there. A very good run brought us to Romsey where we put up at the British Workman. After changing our clothes, we took a walk round the town suburbs, and then to bed without any supper. In fact, we had nothing since Whitchurch, and that was before 3 o’clock. I felt very queer when I got into bed, and if it had not been for some of Henry’s sleeping mixture which he had brought with him, I fear I should not have got to sleep at all. However, a dose of that sent me off I am thankful to say. Henry slept very little, if any.

52 miles

Tuesday July 30

Got up all the better for a night’s rest. After breakfast, we over the church, which occupied us over ½ an hour.

We then made a start for Winchester in most lovely weather and on the best of roads and no wonder we enjoyed the ride. It was very happy going along here. Henry and Tom had taken off as much of their clothing as they possibly could and seemed to revel in the beautiful warm sunshine. We rattled along here at a nice brisk pace, and yet not too fast so as to miss the enjoyment of the scenery. At the top of Winchester Hill, the tandemites put on their wardrobe, and then we descended safely down into the city. The hill is very steep and dangerous.

We had a bread and cheese lunch at a Public, while Tom went to a Coffee Tavern for his. Of course, we visited the Cathedral and had a look round it, then we made our way to Alresford via the Worthys, a very interesting and pretty run by the stream. At Alresford, we called in at a Public and had some cider and ale, which mixture upset Henry’s internal machinery. After surmounting the long hill, we rested for an hour under the juniper trees, and then again at the yew avenue for a short time. We all rode down the hill into Basingstoke, which is the steepest I have ever ridden down. Had a nice tea at Basingstoke. From here, I rode the tandem, and Tom, the Safety, until we reached Finchampstead. I very much enjoyed the ride from Winchester to Basingstoke, and so did the others. Tom said he never had so good a time out as yesterday and today. We were favoured with most perfect weather, and the run will give us something to think about during the winter.

50 miles

Wednesday July 31

Although it was nice weather, I did not go out this evening except for a walk to Tangley with some coffee, and Frances came with me.

1889

Sunday August 4

Mr Scorey preached and very well too. I did not go in the evening but took a walk to Tangley with some coffee.

Monday August 5

Bertha had got up a boat excursion for today. During the night, the wind got up and the rain came down, a rough wild night and this morning, it was dull and grey and wet. However, all our friends turned up and got to Reading in the midst of heavy rain, but like on a previous occasion, it soon cleared off and we made our way to the boat in the dry and had a very good day. We left our moorings at 12 past 9 and had a most glorious journey up the river to Streatley. There was one shower, being but of short duration about 12 o’clock, which was very pretty and did not cause any inconvenience. Five minutes after the rain, the top of the boat was dry again.

When we landed at Streatley, it looked so much like another shower that I, and a few more, would not venture out, but most of the rest went up the hill and were caught in a most drenching and violent storm which sadly wetted them, and I am afraid, marred their deep pleasure. However, they put a good face upon the matter, and a cosy and good tea seemed to put them about right.

We had a pretty ride to Reading, and a pretty fine scramble to get to the station, about 20 of them missing the last up GWR, but fortunately, there was a late theatre up SER and so they came by that. I must say, I enjoyed the day very well.

Wednesday August 7

I got Bertha to take a parcel to North Court, while I went for a run to Bracknell, Easthampstead, Crowthorne and Well College, up the ridges and round to N Court, where I met Bertha and Frances driving out, so we came home together.

11 miles

Thursday August 8

Chappell did the journey. I had a nice time in the shop. Bertha came over and did the weighing up.

Saturday August 10

I got on very well yesterday and today. Henry came home from Camps in the afternoon.

Sunday August 11

To Chapel and heard a good discourse from Mr Woodrow. After tea, I went a run on the Safety to Ruscombe and on to the hand post beyond. There I turned to the left into the Bath road because it looked like rain Burchett’s Green way. I then passed through Twyford and on to Sonning. Had a few minutes on the bridge and then home by Sandford Mill. Took Bertha for a nice walk and saw the moon rise magnificently.

Wednesday August 14

Minnie wrote us that there was an excursion up the river on a steam launch from Caversham, so Bertha and I made up our minds to go. We left here in the pony and trap just at 1 o’clock and just as it commenced to rain a little, which I thought would soon pass off. But alas, it got worse and worse, until, as we drove into Reading, it was a heavy rain. Called at Minnie’s as we passed by, and then on to Caversham only to learn that there was no excursion at all, either up or down the river, so we came back to [word missing] and had tea there and then drove home by Woodley and Sandford. The Band of Hope treat was to have been held in Mr Gibson’s field but it rained so that they could not have it.

Saturday August 17

I had promised to take Bertha to Portsmouth today and had got all things arranged so to do, but during the night a storm came up, and when I got up, it had been raining all night and still rained and blew like a winter day, so I gave up any hope of going this day, and came across to the shop and did my work. About 11 o’clock, the wind gave over and there seemed the promise of clearing off, so I went over to Bertha and told her to get all ready to start by the 1.30 up SER, and by the time that hour came round, it had cleared off nice and bright and of course, warm. We changed at Guildford, put our luggage up and had a pleasant hour or two, and tea at Guildford. Our train was late which gave us a nice time in the station. We had a very nice ride down to Portsmouth, but got in half an hour late. We at once made our way to the Soldiers’ Institute where we got comfortable quarters. After tea, we went to Southsea Pier but could not go into the Pavilion for it was 6d entrance fee, so we stayed outside in the cold and was pleased when it was time to turn in.

Sunday August 18

Got up and found a splendid day awaiting us. We finished breakfast by 10 o’clock and then took a walk down to the floating bridge and across to Gosport on the ferry, a walk round Gosport and back again to Portsmouth and Southsea where we lay on the beach until dinner time. After dinner, which we had at the Soldiers’ Institute, I had a lay down on the lead-flat and a smoke. At 4 o’clock, Bertha and I went across to Ryde, a pleasant little voyage. Tea, and then a walk round the town and along the parade and back to Southsea and heard the band on the pier.

Monday August 19

We went to Bournemouth by boat. We left Victoria Pier at 9.30 on board ‘The Dandie Dinmont’. The morning looked dull and threatening, and when we got on board, it began to rain a little, but soon gave over and then it came out very nice for the rest of the day. We had a very nice voyage and very pretty it was all round the Isle of Wight. It was at Yarmouth Pier where we saw the old lady playing the harp and singing so well. We only had two hours at Bournemouth which did not leave us any time for seeing round the place for we had to get our dinner and that took the best part of the time. The boat landed us at South Parade Pier and we had a nasty and long walk home.

Tuesday August 20

Today we went by the boat to Southampton. The weather was nice and bright but exceedingly windy. Had a nice time at Southampton and got back while it was light. Bertha had a bad night and I a sleepless one.

Wednesday August 21

A regular wet morning and very rough. I took a walk to Southsea but it was too wet and windy to enjoy the sea. We left Portsmouth by the 3 o’clock train for home. We were somewhat sorry to leave the people at the Institute. We had made quite friends with them. There was a Mr Burstow with them who knew Wokingham and the people well, especially the Rankins Hotel gang. At Guildford, we had tea, back to the station, and saw Mr Ryder and we all came home together. They had a very heavy storm here today. We found Hilda very poorly with a bad face.

Thursday August 22

I did the journey.

Saturday August 24

We had a thunderstorm here this afternoon, and a house next to Mrs Kemp’s struck, but not very much damage done.

Sunday August 25

At 2 o’clock, Henry and I on the tandem and Chappell on the Safety made our way via Yateley to Ash and thence to Puttenham and Crompton, where we had tea and thence home the same way we came. We were caught in the rain between Ash and Farnham. Not having had any riding for so long, we got intolerably tired about the legs and had to stop several times to rest on the journey home. Mr Jelley came down and back this evening to see Bertha.

Wednesday August 28

Chappell and I had a splendid run this evening. We left here at ¼ to 5 and made our way to Windsor via Winkfield. Had tea at Windsor, then a good look round, bought some views of the place, and then a delightful ride home. We both thoroughly enjoyed the outing and it was a splendid day.

26 miles

Thursday August 29

I did the journey and was late home.

1889

Sunday September 1

Mr Chappell and I had a splendid run this evening. We left here at 10 o’clock and made our way to Bagshot, Worplesdon and Guildford. The weather was hazy all the way over, but while we were having our dinner at the Coffee Hotel, it cleared off and the sun came out splendid. After dinner, we took a walk along the river and up Cathedral Hill and then lay down and had a nap. At 4 o’clock we made our way to Crompton, and were one minute too late to see Kemp and Rednall who had just left the Coffee House. After tea, we made our way to the Hog’s Back and down into Guildford and away nearly to Ripley, thence to Woking and home by Knaphill, Chobham and Bagshot. The weather was all we could have desired, and we had a very nice time of it and enjoyed ourselves.

52 miles

Monday September 2

Bertha drove Ada to Bagshot and I followed in the afternoon on the Safety and had tea over there and then came back with them.

18 miles

Wednesday September 4

Bertha and Frances went by train to Farnborough and walked across to Frimley. Henry, Chappell and I went by road on our machines after we had closed and met them there, and then we took a boat and had a row up the canal to North Camp Station where we landed the ladies and they went home from there while we rowed back to Frimley and then came home by road. It was a very pleasant time we had on the water, and I think we all enjoyed it. Mabel went with us. Rowing back to Frimley, the canal looked very nice in the moonlight.

Thursday September 5

Bertha went the round with me.

Sunday September 8

Geo Woods started off at 8 this morning with Mr Rednall on the tandem for Ewelme, and I followed at 9 o’clock on the Safety. Had a very nice run to Henley where I came across Geo Woods sitting on the bridge by himself, poor Mr Rednall being laid up a cropper in the station. He caught his foot in the pedal of the tandem and so hurt it that he was unable to proceed any further. It being such a nice fine day, we thought it a pity to all turn back, so we got Mr Rednall to take the Safety with him in the train as far as Twyford, and then Geo and I went on the tandem, and made our way to Watlington. From Henley, it is a very long uphill which lasts until within two miles of Watlington. The road was good and we put the tandem along uncommonly well. We stopped a few minutes at Stonor Park and had a chat with the Lodge Keeper’s wife who informed us that Messrs Beecham and Bartlett had taken the place for the summer. Here was a very tame little fawn who followed us up the Park. We called in at the Woodman Public House and had a wayside lunch, then on up the hill still, and away down to Watlington which is an old and small town. From Watlington, we passed on to Ewelme and put up at the Greyhound. While George was talking, I had a rest and a little sleep in the armchair. We took a walk through the Almshouses to the Church.

Here I had another long rest while George talked with someone about a Mrs [word missing], who George thinks was a friend of Evers. Up on to the Common and down to the Inn to tea, and a very comfortable one it was too and very pleasant it was sitting there in the shade and looking out on to the sunshine, we were highly pleased with the tea. We left Ewelme a little after 5 and came home via Benson and Wallingford. We stopped and listened to a most splendid organ here, and very, very much I enjoyed that few minutes of music. We had a nice run home by Streatley and Reading, and did not make a late job of it. George was very pleased with the run and so also was I.

60 miles

Monday September 9

Henry and I went on the tandem to New Mill and thence on to Bramshill Common blackberrying. We gathered both a basketful, and very fine and large fruit. We had dinner, bread and cheese and beer, which we took with us, and altogether had a very nice time out on the Common. It was wonderfully hot, especially about 2 o’clock. I laid down in the shade and was very thankful for a breeze of air. We came home before 4 o’clock and Millie made the berries into jam. I found it hotter today than anywhere during the year.

12 miles

Wednesday September 11

Henry, Geo Woods and Philip Sale started this morning on a tour to Lambourn, the two former on the tandem and Philip on his omnicycle. After we closed, Chappell and I did the Marlow and Henley run, and a very nice run it was too. We both worked up the hill out of Marlow.

38 miles

Thursday September 12

As Henry was out, Chappell did the journey. The Lambournites came home about 7 o’clock, highly pleased with their outing.

Sunday September 15

Chappell and I had an evening on the canal. We left here at ½ past 2, I having on my Safety, strapped the multum and in there placed our tea, We had a very nice ride over to Odiham, and there took one canoe because there was not two. Mr Chappell took it first, and though it was his first attempt, he got on uncommonly well. We drew up and made a fire and warmed up the tea and had a comfortable meal by the waterside. After tea, I took the canoe for a little time. We went as far as Pilcot, and then back, each taking the canoe by turns. Got off the water just as it was getting dark. Had a jolly ride home via Dogmersfield, Pilcot and Hartley Row. It was a first rate turn out and both enjoyed it well.

26 miles

Monday September 16

I took Bertha, Frances and Hilda on the water. We all left here by the 1.38 for North Camp and walked from there to the canal, and at the back of North Camp L&SWR is a boat house where we got a first rate craft, and had a leisure pull to Aldershot and back to Ash. Had tea on the boat while we were waiting for a barge to pass on from under a bridge. From here, I took them nearly to Frimley and then back to the boat house, and home by the 7.19, having had a very pleasant and happy day out with my family. It was a beautiful day, bright and hot. Hilda very much enjoyed it and was full of life and enjoyment all this time.

Wednesday September 18

Chappell and I left here as soon after we closed as possible and made our way to Waltham via Binfield old Church. Had a look round the Church there and on to White Waltham Church, then to Maidenhead Thicket and a call at Camley Corner Church to see Mrs Micklem’s grave, and then away to Hurley, and a walk by the river, then to Henley, and very pretty it looked as we came down into it from Rose Hill. Came home via Wargrave and Hurst, King’s Street, having a first rate evening out. It was very pretty round by Waltham and we were in very good condition. The roads from Maidenhead Thicket to Hurley were very bad and loose.

30 miles

Sunday September 22

I was a little out of sorts so did not go out for any excursion. I went to Geo Woods to tea.

Wednesday September 25

Was New Mill anniversary. Bertha and Mr Sale drove over to tea, and I followed later and was just in time for a cup of tea. We did not stay for the evening service. The strap of the harness broke just by Chandler’s, which rather alarmed Bertha.

14 miles

Thursday September 26

Chappell did the barracks journey and I the rest. Coming out of Wixenford, the wheel caught the post and that broke the harness, the horse was frightened and would have run away had I not retained my hold of the reins. I had a sack of B. meal and a sack of oats on the top of the cart, and both of them were thrown out. There was nothing hurt but the harness, which was very fortunate for it bordered upon a serious accident. One of the young Chandlers came up, and with his help, I mended the harness and got the load back into the cart and proceeded on my way without further mishap.

Sunday September 29

I had arranged with Chappell to go a run to Hampton Court today, if fine, and the morning being so, I had breakfast and was across at the shop a little after 8, called Chappell up, and at 9 o’clock we made a start going by Binfield, Warfield, Winkfield, through the park to Virginia Water. It was a very pretty morning with a strong wind blowing at our backs, and the roads being good, it was no wonder we went along easily, and enjoyed the pretty scenery along Warfield and Winkfield. The Castle looked very fine, like a chalk cliff as it stood up in the sunlight. The London road was good, but at Staines we had to leave it, and got onto that wretched piece between Staines and Sunbury, and that certainly is a bad piece of road. However, a little before Sunbury, it improves and is then quite a good road. If we had been going the other way, we should have found it frightfully hard work for the wind was blowing very strong at our backs. We put up our machines at East Molesey and had dinner. After dinner, we had a hurried look over Hampton Court. We didn’t stay long, for we had not much time to spare and the weather was now horribly cold. A little after 2 o’clock we left, and made our way by Bushy Park to Kingston. While passing through one of the streets, I had great difficulty in steering clear of a pigeon who was feeding in the road. It had its head down a grating and did not see me coming. As soon as we got clear of the town, the road was very pretty. It follows the course of the river for a good distance, and commands a good view of Bushy Park. From Thames Ditton to Esher, is somewhat uphill and I found the machine being a little heavy, and was glad to go to Esher and have an early cup of tea. While on the Ripley road, we saw quite a quantity of cyclists. From Esher, we had a good run to Weybridge and Chertsey, but from there to Virginia Water, was not good. We had a liquer up at the Wheatsheaf and then a capital ride home via Sunningdale and Ascot, arriving at the Market Place exactly at 7 o’clock.

65 miles

1889

Wednesday October 2

Chappell and I had a very nice little run after closing this afternoon. We left a little before 5 and made our way to Eversley up on to the Flats and along them to Blackwater where I called upon a friend. We worked along sharp right up to the Golden Farmer, and then away at express rate to Bagshot. Called at Mr Knight’s and had a refreshment, and then a very pleasant ride to Bracknell and home. The bicycle went very easy and we both liked the run much.

26 miles

Sunday October 6

Mr Jelley came yesterday and stayed today, also Mr and Mrs Williams from Tonbridge. The morning being fine, I took the opportunity of going for a ride. As usual, I made my way to Eversley, this time going to the street, where I saw Mr Christie, and he asked me in, and gave me a glass of whisky which put me up Brickhouse Hill and away to the Flats and Elvetham and round to the left, and so back to the Flats and home. I rode all the hills even that one leading up to the Flats from Fleet. I very much enjoyed the ride for it was very pretty. I am glad I went this morning, for alas, the weather changed and the afternoon was wet and miserable. Chappell went home on his Safety this morning. Went to Chapel and marked the text. Acts 7.32.

20 miles

Monday October 7

Henry went by the excursion to London this morning. I had a nice day in the shop clearing up. Chappell came home this evening by train, leaving his machine at Alton.

Wednesday October 8

I wasted nearly all the morning looking at the accident. A GWR luggage got off the line at the junction and six trucks were more or less overturned and damaged and entirely blocked both lines both up and down. It was 2 o’clock before the line was cleared.

It was a beautifully fine day and warm. After closing, I had a ride to the Flats and Blackwater and home by Crowthorne and Easthampstead.

Sunday October 13

It was a splendid morning so I went for a ride, and very, very much enjoyed myself. I went my old and favourite way to Elvetham. On Eversley bridge, I had a little stay to see if I could catch sight of a kingfisher which Mr Kemp saw here on Thursday, but although I waited for a few minutes, I was not privileged with that sight. It was very beautiful down here by the stream, the sun shone quite hot and warm, and the water looked inviting as on a midsummer day, and the foliage of the trees was even prettier. Everywhere I went was pretty and especially so all round Elvetham. It looked like a Sunday morning. All so peaceful and quiet, even the lads doing the road, and the earth in the fields alike wore a Sunday aspect. At Elvetham, I turned to Hartley Row old church, and then down to the Union and back to Elvetham, over the Flats and home. Altogether, it was a grand morning out and I felt all the better for what I had seen.

25 miles

Monday October 14

The morning was a little misty but gave promise of a like day to yesterday, so I thought I would enjoy it by going another run. I could not get anyone to go with me, so I went by myself. Left here at 10 o’clock and went by Crowthorne to Blackwater. I did not feel quite up to the mark and I should think I got off 20 times before I reached Blackwater to alter the machine. I got up onto the Flats tolerably well, and from there to Guildford, I had a very nice ride. I put up the bicycle at the Angel, and went to the Temperance Hotel for dinner, but it was very indifferent and I could not eat much of it. Had a walk about Guildford and then up to the railway bridge to look at the trains. At ½ past 2, I left for Compton and there had tea at Mrs Hawkins, and sat there for a long time talking to the old people. I had a very nice ride home as far as Blackwater, but from there, I did not enjoy it, as from there it was quite dark.

45 miles

Thursday October 17

I did the whole of the journey myself, and did not get home until nearly 8 o’clock. There was an illuminated ride with cyclists round the town. It was to have been held yesterday evening, but the day was soaking wet from morning to night and so it had to be postponed. It was quite a success this time.

Sunday October 20

I did not feel at all well today. I went to Chapel this morning and marked out the text long before Mr Cave read it in the lesson. Stopped at home all the rest of the day and read.

Monday October 21

Having some goods to go to North Court, I and Bertha drove over with Rodney after dinner. We then went round Eversley street and the Common. Called upon Mr Bushnell to arrange about some oats I had bought off them. Then called at Mr Fox to look him up about his bill. Came home by New Mill and N.M. Ride. I could not enjoy the ride because I had a touch of the face ache.

Sunday October 27

I went a run this morning round Elvetham and enjoyed it very much. I rode all the hills, even the sandy one leading up to the Flats on my way home.

1889

Sunday November 3

Friday and Saturday being such nice fine days, and the roads being in good condition, I arranged with Chappell to go for a ride today, but alas, instead of a ride, we got a wet day, wet and heavy rain all day long. Mr Jelley came down and stayed the night.

Monday November 4

A nice day after yesterday’s rain. The Fair is held this year in Bunce’s meadow, below the old church. I went down in the evening and found it very much the same as for the past few years. I went into one show, but had better stayed out, for there was little to see.

Wednesday November 6

Being a niceish day for the time of year, I went for a ride on the Safety this afternoon. Left here about 3, and made my way over very good roads to Elvetham, from there to Hartley Row old church and down to the Barley Mow, called for a glass of ale, and while I was drinking it, a young lad came in with a dead kingfisher which he had just picked out of the canal. It happened to be the one that had flown away from the Mistress of the Union. She had a pair, and used to get then fly about the room, but the window being left open, flew out about a week ago, and she was in a sad way about it, and made it known that if the bird was found, dead or alive, she should be very pleased to see it. All this the landlady told me, so I gave the boy 2d for the bird and sent it up to its late mistress. It was a splendid bird, and well enough she might have sorrowed over its loss.

It was a very nice run round and very much I enjoyed it. On my way home, I sat for some time on Eversley bridge watching the moonbeams playing on the water, and if I had waited a few minutes longer, I should have seen Mr Marshall’s barley rick on fire, for it was burnt down this evening, as is supposed by an incendiary.

26 miles

Sunday November 10

There was a grand parade of the various public bodies and the band etc to Chapel to publicly recognise Mr Moorcock as Mayor. I did not go for it was a very nice morning, and Chappell and I went a nice run instead. We went from here to Eversley Cross, thence to the Monument, back to Mattingley by Phoenix Green to Hartley Row and home. It was a splendid morning out, and I should have enjoyed it to the full, only I had a tooth a little troublesome. However, it was a very enjoyable run.

22 miles

Tuesday November 12

Was a wonderful day for November, bright, warm, sunny and calm, with the roads in perfect condition, but alas, I could not enjoy it for I had the toothache very badly and was kept indoors with it all the afternoon.

Wednesday November 13

Was very foggy so I could not go out.

Sunday November 17

Very foggy morning so I did not turn out very early. After breakfast, I came across to see if Chappell would go for a ride, but he declined, so I went by myself and had one of the most enjoyable rides I have had this year. I went to Hurst, Ruscombe, Knowl Hill, Warren Row, Cockpole, Henley, and home via Wargrave and Dinton Lane. It was very foggy the first part of the journey, not so foggy but that I had some very pretty new views. Many things interested me going along here. A rustic gate over a blind lane with an old cottage at the end, or bird or tree, something at nearly every turn to take my attention, and then the roads on the whole were in very excellent condition for November, that from Henley to Twyford was better than I have seen it this year, even that very steep rise between Henley and Wargrave, by the Lodge, I rode up with comparative ease. I had to walk all down Henley hill for it is thrown right across with large flints. It is in a disgraceful state. I felt very happy going over that piece of ground by Warren Row and Cockpole, and so I did for Henley too. I saw several fishing and some out boating. Now and then there was a faint puff of wind, and downwind came the large yellow leaves, a pretty sight. There are many trees with leaves on still, but they appear quite ready to fall, and I suppose this will be the last time I shall see them this year. As I said at the beginning, this was another one of the best runs I have had.

24 miles

Wednesday November 20

I had an early dinner and then a run to Henley intending to go over the same ground as on Sunday last, only the reverse way, but after having a nice ride to Henley, and a push up Rose Hill and getting on the road to Warren Row, I turned to the right and had a splendid run downhill ride for a long way, and very much to my surprise, I struck the Wargrave road just at the brow of the steep rise I rode up last Sunday. At first I did not know where I was and actually asked of a carter the way to Wargrave but I had scarcely asked him when I saw where I was and very much was I astonished to think I could be so easily deceived in my [illegible word]. I got back just after 4 and was very much pleased with my little run. A great change in the trees since Sunday, all the leaves are off now.

24 miles

Sunday November 24

A very wet and windy day towards the end of it. Mr Jelley came down by the last SER. Dull day.

Monday November 25

I went to Tangley this morning and took Bertha with me. I got a good order and should have been very pleased with my walk, only I was depressed. I had no sleep since 4 o’clock. George drove Mr Jelley to Twyford.

Wednesday November 27

Cleaned the cuckoo clock this evening.

Saturday November 30

I did the journey for a change. It was a very nice day but I got too tired to enjoy it. A very poor Saturday night.

1889

Sunday December 1

The day was fine and bright right from the morning. Chappell and I had a capital ride this morning to Warren Row and Henley. The roads were in perfect condition, hard and frosty and smooth. The sun shone bright and warm, and altogether, it was a perfect December morning. We very much enjoyed the run to Warren Row and Henley, but from there through Shiplake and Sonning home was not so nice.

Monday December 2

I had an early dinner and then off to Arborfield, Farley Hill, Westwood, Eversley and home to see if I could collect some debts, but I did not get a penny. However, I had a very good ride.

Tuesday December 24

Tomorrow being Xmas Day, I took the Xmas boxes round. I sent Geo Sale the Barracks and Wornhams and did the rest myself. Had a very good day round. It rained heavily starting off, but cleared up about 11 o’clock.

Wednesday December 25 – Xmas Day

I had a bad cold, so I did not turn out of bed until nigh on 1 o’clock. We had an exceedingly quiet day, not a single visitor. The weather was fine and bright.

Thursday December 26

Took a walk to Tangley this morning with Geo Woods. Saw Mr Williamson and had a walk round the place, then to Tom’s works and did a little job for George. Went to London by the 4.4 GWR (3/6). Got to Waterloo at 6.4 and straight off to Drury Lane, and got into the pit only to find no room, only to stand, so paid another 1/- and went up to the balcony, and there could get only a back seat, so left my 3/- and came out and made for the Savoy, but there was no chance of getting in, so I came home by the 8.5 instead of the 12.

Friday December 27

Had no hogs so had a somewhat easy day, and plenty of time for the orders.

Sunday December 29

I did intend having a morning in bed, but the weather was so bright, I was compelled to turn out, and very glad I was I did so, for after having breakfast, I went out and found the roads frozen hard. This decided me for a run. I came across to the shop but could not persuade Mr Chappell to venture out, and I do not wonder at it, for the morning was now foggy and all things damp and cold. I dried my saddle by the fire and gave the bicycle a lick down and it must have been nearly 11 o’clock before I got off and made my way, sometimes by road and sometimes by path to Finchampstead. From thence the road was excellent all the way round, and the fog cleared off a good deal and the sun came out quite bright. I went my old course round Elvetham and very much enjoyed the run. It went very easily and I went along comfortably at a tolerably good pace, and saw many pretty little sights. As I say, it took a little resolution to turn out this morning, especially as I have quite a bad cold, but I felt amply repaid by the pleasurable feeling. I got all the way round. Mr Jelley came down last night by the GWR and up from Reading by the 10.45. None of us went out this evening.