1893 

Saturday April 1 

I have not had time lately to keep up my diary, for we have been very busy at the shop this year, not so much from extra trade but from shortness of hands, for Mr Chappell left soon after the year began, and the boy we have had for some time of an afternoon, he too has left, so also has the grey pony. We sent him in to Mr Metcalf for him to shoot, which he did very willingly. 

The weather has been most seasonable – January was cold and winterly, February very wet, and March all fine and bright and warm. I have not done much bicycling because the state of the roads was such as to make that sport uninviting during the first two months, and then another thing, I have not had a machine to ride, for the Whippet was so far worn that I had to take it to pieces and reconstruct it. A few days ago, I bought a Safety for £4.0.0 just to carry me along until I can get the Whippet done. In place of bicycling, I have done a little at verse writing, namely the piece on The Stag Hunt, and The Jolly Farmer’s Inn. 

I have not felt so strong this year as previous ones. I have had two or three bicycle rides this year. About three weeks ago, I went on Henry’s cushion tyres for the first time to Heckfield, Mattingley and Hartley Row, and rode all the hills. It was a nice bright day and I enjoyed the ride very well. Then two weeks ago, on a Wednesday afternoon, Henry and I went to Twyford, Henley, Shiplake, Sonning and home by Sandford Mill. I also enjoyed that very much. Sunday week, I went by myself after tea to Hurst, Twyford and round by Sandford Mill home. I also had a pretty ride to Eversley and along the Flats to Blackwater and home by Crowthorne. These were all in the month of March, which has been the most wonderful month we have known, fine and bright and warm every day, and not a drop of rain and scarcely any wind, no rough wind at all. Frost of a night, but clear and warm all day. With very little trouble, I have kept the garden very tidy and straight, in fact, it has been no trouble at all, for what little I have had to do, I have enjoyed doing. On Thursday last, Mr Kemp came across and arranged a run for this Easter. He proposed we should go to Midhurst, which we thought a very good idea, and so it was arranged, if the weather be fine, that Mr Rednall, Kemp, Henry and I should start off at 7 o’clock on Sunday morning. I got round the journey very comfortably and have had another very fine day, and though the weather forecast, and also the barometer is against us, yet it looks very like a fine day for tomorrow. We have had a very busy evening, and very fortunate it was I cleaned and got my bicycle ready on Good Friday, for I should have had no time to do anything to it today. 

Sunday April 2 

I had a middling night’s rest. I should have slept very well. But waking up at 2 o’clock, I heard the wind howling and it looked very like a nasty change in the weather, and this disturbed me a good deal. I turned out about 6 o’clock and had finished breakfast by ¼ to 7. I left home somewhat downcast because of the weather, but by the time we started, which was a little after 7 o’clock, it had greatly improved. The cloud had passed away and the sun shone out quite warm and cheerful, though there was still a strong north wind on, but as we were going south we felt it not, except when we stopped. The road to the end of the Wokingham district being so abominably bad and unrideable, Mr Kemp went on some ½ an hour before us, and by our riding on the path we overtook him two miles out. 

Having got outside of the Wokingham district, we had a splendid jog along to Eversley, Elvetham, Fleet and thence up Beacon Hill, but before we ascended that eminence, we fortified ourselves with a glass of ale each at the North Horns. We pushed up the rugged hill and then had a good road to Farnham, but it was spoiled by poor Mr Rednall rushing down the hill too fast and coming off at the corner, which very much shook and damaged him. At the trough of water just entering Farnham he had a wash up, but from there to Farnham he was very green and absent, and very slow, so that he made up his mind to stay at the Jenny’s Inn, but by the time he had got there he felt better and determined to go on with us. We had lunch at the Jenny’s Inn and a little rest in the woods near there, which very much refreshed Mr Rednall, and from there right on to Midhurst he got along capitally. 

It was a long rise up to Hindhead, but we took it quietly and had a jolly time and did not get too hot, so that we thoroughly enjoyed the descent into Haslemere. It was now new ground to three of us, and over some very pretty and hilly country we proceeded. From Haslemere, we must have gone up a great height, but the wind being right at our backs and just now very strong, we did not notice the rise so much, but when we began the descent, it was very steep and very long. 

Mr Kemp took us off the main road, and over an old but now disused route to what he called the Eagle’s Nest, a little village on the side of a very steep hill where there was an old inn whose cider has to be had. Here we called in and had some of it, and a chat with the landlord, who was a very pleasant kind of person, and communicative, and showed us over his place. They made their own cider, 1½d a glass, or 2½d a pint. It is a very pretty spot and a pleasant little time we had here. 

Another stiff push up and we were on the main road again and at the top of the hill too, and we had a two mile run down to Midhurst, which we reached at 4 o’clock. We put our machines up at the Coffee House but could not get lodgings there, so looked round the town for some and came across just about the place we wanted. We had a large bedroom with two double and two single beds in it, and although it was of a homely or rather rough style it did us uncommonly well and we had a very pleasant and sociable night’s rest there. We had a wash up and then a nice tea, after which we took a walk through the park and viewed the old mansion, or rather what remains of it, for it was burnt down many years ago and a new house has been erected some distance off. 

Henry and I went to church while Kemp and Rednall did a further look round, but as it was dark then, they couldn’t see much. We had a bread and cheese supper, which I did not much enjoy, and a longish talk after. I was glad to get up to bed, that I did enjoy, for, as I say, it was very jolly all sleeping in one very large room and each having a double bed to himself. I went to sleep and slept soundly up to 6 o’clock, when looking out of window, I saw 

Monday April 3 – Bank Holiday 

a most glorious day, bright, sunny and calm. We got up at 7, ordered breakfast and went for a walk while it was getting ready. I never saw such a fine morning for this time of the year. It was simply grand, and the little walk made the breakfast go down all the better. They served it up well, tea and coffee, rashers and eggs, and all very nicely done. Very much did we enjoy this meal as we sat round the table and chatted over the prospects of the day, such a fine sample of which we had from the window, which looked out on the market square all lit up with the bright Spring sunshine. 

We left Midhurst a little after 9 o’clock and made our way through the park for Lurgashall. The ride through the park was grand in the extreme, for we not alone saw some of the finest trees in the Kingdom, but also had some very fine distant views, especially of the South Downs. 

At Lodsworth, we had a liquer up, which carried us along to Lurgashall, where, at the maypole, we had another. From Lodsworth to Lurgashall was very pretty, with such a fine view of Blackdown. The valley between us and it was covered with May in full blossom. From Lurgashall to the main Petworth road was across country lanes of indifferent surface and very undulating. It was over this piece of road Kemp led Mr Geo Sale and poor Peggy when they took the piano to Arundel. It is a marvel to me how the horse got along over such roads and with such a load and distance. 

We had lunch at Chiddingfold, but not at the old inn, that being full of yokels, so we went to a very nice place almost next door, and had a capital repast off a tin of pressed beef which Rednall brought. 

All the Petworth and Guildford road was in perfect order. We turned off at Milford, Mr Kemp wanting to go to Elstead, but as Rednall and I wanted to go to Compton for tea we led the way and went there. Tea refreshed us, and then we had a very good run home via the Hog’s Back, reaching Wokingham about 8 o’clock, having had a most enjoyable day’s run home. 

As I said, the weather was lovely and fine and bright, and it was also very hot, hot as a June day. The oak was in full leaf and the banks covered with primroses and other wild flowers, and this was the first week of April. Many little incidents happened which I must leave unrecorded for want of time to write. Had it not been for Mr Rednall’s fall Sunday, it would have been a perfect tour, but if Sunday was marred by that, Monday made up for it. The wind blew us there, and we had it calm for the return journey 

Sunday April 16 

Rednall and I went to Streatley via Sandford Mill, Woodley and Reading, thence across the river to Sonning and up the hill for Nettlebed. When we got to the top of the hill, we drew up in a wood and had our dinner, which we enjoyed, and also a little rest after. After proceeding a little way on our journey, my bicycle wheel bearing locked. I put it right, but soon after I came over very queer and had to lay down for a time, but from there home it was a pretty ride, and had I been all right I should have enjoyed it. 

44 miles 

Sunday April 20 

Henry and I had a run this evening to Crowthorne, Blackwater, Frimley and thence to Cove and Hawley on to the Flats to Yateley and home. 

26 miles 

1893

Sunday May 7 

Henry and I went to Odiham to tea at the Angel, then took a walk to Greywell and to the further end of the tunnel, and back to Odiham, and back the same way we came. The evening was cold and dull, and we were too cold to enjoy the walk. The riding part was all right. 

Saturday May 20 

Next Monday being Bank Holiday, we arranged and got all ready for camp today under most depressing circumstances. The weather, until now, for weeks past has been fine every day, but this week the barometer has steadily gone back and we have had a wet day or so. However, we got all ready and this morning seemed to promise a little better. I had to do the journey, and a very nice, bright and cheerful morning we had, but at 3 o’clock, down came the rain and kept getting worse and worse, so that at 4 o’clock it was a regular soaker, the rain coming down very heavy, and looked like a wet week setting in, but before I got home it left off, but still looked very black, and when I drew up at the shop with all the things in the cart soaking wet through and water dripping off my mackintosh and the roads wet and muddy, it looked anything but inviting for sleeping out on the grass that night.

However, as the cart with the tent and goods had started before the rain came on, and Tom had also gone over on his bicycle, we were in for it. To carry the goods over this time, we borrowed Lush’s cart and Philip Sale lent his old horse and sent Joe Clark to drive it over. They had a nice morning for packing up and, as I say, got off before the rain came on, for if they hadn’t, I am sure they would not have made a start after such a rain. Philip Sale, Mr Rednall, Henry and I left about ½ past 9 on our machines. We made a very good start and the weather had greatly improved, and the farther we went the better it got, until when we arrived at camp it was beautifully fine and moonlight. The rain made the roads heavy for going over, Mr Sale especially feeling it along the Basingstoke road. We met Joe Clark walking back with the horse and cart just opposite Cap’n Young’s place. We found the tent up and everything in the dry, and after a bread/cheese supper we were soon all a-bed. Mr Kemp was not with us, as he was doing a holiday in Devonshire. It is the first time he has been away from camp, and we feared we should miss him much, but we did not, for we got on quite as well without him as with him. 

Sunday May 21 

We all slept very well and when we awoke there was a glorious morning awaiting us. With the improved fireplace this year, we soon made tea and cooked the rashers and eggs and had a most sumptuous breakfast in the open air.

Tom and Philip went to Chapel at Odiham and Henry and Rednall took a walk to Butter Wood, while I stayed at the camp and put things straight etc. I had a very nice morning and plenty of company. Some parties doing a boating trip on the canal came up to see me at work and were highly amused at my decorations. We laid down all the afternoon, but it was so hot we knew not where to get the shelter. It was much too hot in the tent, so we put the beds outside and laid there with our umbrellas to shelter us. There was, as usual, a service at the Castle, being Whit Sunday. After tea, we got a lad to mind tent while Philip, Rednall, Henry and I (Tom having gone back to Wokingham for the night) went for a very nice walk to Greywell over the tunnel and along the canal and round the lanes etc. We all liked it and Philip was charmed with the place as he had not been this way before. The birds were on high ding-dong. The nightingales, blackbirds, thrushes etc. I forgot to say that before we went for the walk, I went to Odiham on the bicycle and ordered a boat for tomorrow. 

Monday May 22 – Bank Holiday 

Another perfect day and again we had breakfast in the open air with umbrellas up to shelter us from the sun. We never had better mornings at camp than this. After breakfast, Philip and I walked to Odiham to get the boat and to meet Tom there as arranged. We had a beautiful walk to the boat place, but getting there we were disappointed with the boat, the man not having saved it for us. We waited a long time for Tom to turn up, but as he did not, we made our way back to the tent, and soon after, Tom came back, he having had a spill going home on Sunday caused by the bearing of his bicycle giving. As we were done out of our boating today, we arranged to go tomorrow. We had dinner and, as we expected Millie over, we did not go out. I just went round the place and found a few nests. Early in the afternoon, Millie, Miss Hall and her brother, and Lilly walked over from Greywell, and soon after, Mr and Mrs Cooper Bennett and Willy Barton’s son came over on their tricycles. So, we had a large party to tea and quite a merry time. Millie’s party had tea first and then they and Henry went for a walk. After we had ours, I took Mr and Mrs Bennett and Rednall to Greywell and back. 

Tuesday May 23 

Mr Rednall went early this morning. Henry stayed at home, and Philip, Tom and I went for a most enjoyable and sociable walk through the Butter Wood and along the canal and lanes, and back through the wood to our old camping ground. We were going on the water today, but the weather was too overcast and looked like rain. However, it cleared off nice and fine while we were out, and as the weather brightened and we talked over family matters, we very much enjoyed our time out. After dinner, it came on to rain so we did nothing else much. 

Wednesday May 24 

Turned out a very nice day for winding up the camp. Joe Clark came over to cart the goods back again. I had a little walk by myself and at 12 o’clock I left for home because I had to see that the orders were ready for Thursday’s journey, Mr Gillman only having come on the 11^th of this month. I had a nice ride home and found he had got on very well with the orders. 

Altogether, we had a very good time for our outing this year and we had a quiet and happy party. Mr Sale was especially jolly and useful. 

Monday June 5 

The pneumatic wheels, which having arrived, I commenced to do up my Whippet, and put a chain cover. This took all my odd time up during the week, and on Saturday I did the journey (also the other days), got home early and finished off the Whippet much to my satisfaction, having made a thorough good job of the gear case 

Sunday June 11 

Mr Jelley was down for the day. Henry and I went for a ride after tea, he on the Cushion and I on the Whippet with the pneumatics for the first time. We went to Eversley, thence to the Monument and Basing, across to Mapledurwell, Greywell and home by Hartley Row. It was a beautiful evening and splendid ride and much I enjoyed the going of the Whippet. The road in many places is in a scandalous state, for we have had no rain (except the rain before going to camp) since February. 

Monday June 12 

Had a run round Bracknell and Easthampstead after 8 o’clock on the Whippet. 

Tuesday June 13 

Went again over the same course with Hobday’s young man. We left the church at ¼ past 8 and went round before lighting up time. 

Wednesday June 14 

I left here at 4 o’clock intending going to Guildford and Bramley to see Mr Jelley’s new farm, but when I got to Ash, or nearly there, it looked so black in front, and I saw it lightning and heard the thunder, and so I turned back and gave the job up for today. I came home via Blackwater and Crowthorne. The roads sadly want rain. However, it passed off and we had none. 

Sunday June 18 

I had an early tea and then off on the Whippet for Rowly Common. I left here at ¼ past 4 and had a jolly and happy ride to Guildford via the Hog’s Back. I had a cup of tea at the Coffee House and then away for Shalford and Wonersh and thence to Rowly Common, where I found Mr Jelley’s farm and had a hurried look about the place, and then home via Wonersh and Bramley and Guildford, along the Back and down to Ash Green Station, where I turned left and right and so avoided the road by the Devon Arms, which is now in a very bad state. I got home at ½ past 10 having had a splendid evening’s ride. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride both ways. There was a strong breeze against me going, but that I did not mind a bit. I have not had such a nice ride as this for a very long time. 

54 miles 

Monday June 26 

Henry, Tom and I arranged to go to Selborne today, as it is the centenary of Gilbert White’s death.

We have had a little rain the last few days, and a very little, and I was afraid we should not be able to go, but though the morning was very dull, after 7 o’clock it came over brightly and got to be quite a nice morning at 9 o’clock, which was the advertised time for starting, but it was nearer 10 when we left Wokingham. 

The weather was now all we could wish, but I could not enjoy it because I had a bilious headache. I called in at Hartley Row and had a glass of soda water, but it did very little good. At South Warnborough we had a liquer up at the Plough, which carried us on to Selborne, where we arrived about 1 o’clock. We put the machines up at the Queen’s Arms and got some bottles of ale and ginger beer there and took them to the Long Lithe and sat down and had dinner in our usual spot. I thoroughly enjoyed the dinner, and also a little nap after, while Tom and Henry took a walk round. I woke up much refreshed and had lost my headache, and so I enjoyed the remainder of the day. 

After going up the zigzag and a prowl about the top, and a walk down by the side of the hill, it was time for tea, which we had at the Queens Arms. We left Selborne at 6 o’clock and had a very hot and close ride up the hill to the Golden Pot. We were each in a complete lather of perspiration, but directly we descended the other side the atmosphere was quite cool. We called in at the Angel and there met Mr Ducrocq and Leonard, but they did not come home with us. I think Tom and Henry thoroughly enjoyed the trip, but I can’t say I did thoroughly. Bertha ordered a pan off Mr Henning, but when his son brought it down he knocked over the vase at the foot of the front steps and broke it and of course threw out all the flowers. Frances, too, was poorly. 

Wednesday June 28 

I mended the vase and put the flowers back. It was a wet afternoon and so just suited me. 

1893

Sunday July 2

Mr Rednall and I went for a ride today. We left about ½ past 9 and made our way for Guildford. It was a splendid morning and a splendid ride it would have been had Mr R moved along a little quicker. We did not stop at Guildford but went on to Rowly Common via Bramley and there we sat down and had lunch on the Common. It was very jolly sitting here on this beautiful Sunday afternoon and very much we enjoyed ourselves. We did not hurry but had a good long rest after our meal and then took a look round the place and a run up the village and then went across the Common and down a very long green lane until we came into, as I thought, the Brighton road, but I was mistaken, for we at last found ourselves again at Shamley Green and so we came back to Guildford by the same route as we came. At Guildford we had tea and then a quiet walk and ride up the Back and a very beautiful ride home via Crowthorne. 

Monday July 3 

Mr Jelley came down by the last SER for his holidays. 

Wednesday July 5 

Mr Jelley, Bertha and I went by the 1040 to Guildford and thence by train to Bramley and then walked over to Rowly Common and called upon Cap Parker and had a look over the place and down there. We came back by the 6.5 train. The day was fine but overcast. 

Sunday July 9 

I had a run to Knowl Hill church and back. I was going to B. Green, but the weather looked too threatening, so I turned back at the Church and enjoyed the little ride very much. 

16 miles 

Monday July 10 

Henry, Millie and Lilly went by the excursion to Hastings and stayed. 

Mr Jelley, Bertha, Eva, Frances, Hilda and I drove to Henley in Barnes’ chaise with our horse and went on the river, but I did not enjoy it. There was too much wind, and I don’t much care for the water, it is hard work and very little pleasure, besides being expensive. 

We got on the water about 12 o’clock and went as far as Marlow, where we had tea, and then back to Henley and home at ½ past 10. 

Wednesday July 12 

I attempted a run to Marlow and Henley after tea but was stopped at Knowl Hill church by the rain, so I came home. 

16 miles 

Thursday July 13 

I have had the toothache bad for the last few days, and today it was unbearable, so I went to Reading and had it out at Mr Harvey’s. 

Tuesday July 18 

Mr Jelley went back this morning having had a very quiet fortnight holiday this time. 

Sunday July 22 

I intended going to Southampton and back today, and for this purpose I got up at 6 o’clock and got breakfast and was off at 7.15. When I started it looked like a very nice day. The morning was bright and calm, but as soon as I started, the wind rose and just got worse and worse, and I had my headache come on, and that got worse and worse, so when I got to Basingstoke, I turned back and took it very quietly home again. I felt very poorly and went to bed after dinner. I was glad I turned home, for the day just got from bad to worse and the afternoon and evening were very wet and rough. 

36 miles 

Wednesday July 25 

As it threatened for rain and a high wind on, I did not go for a ride as I intended but watched the cricket Hurst v Wokingham. The latter was the winner by many runs. 

Sunday July 30 

I went to Chapel for the morning service and heard Mr Cave. After tea, I went for a run to Odiham. As I was going under the SER bridge, Mr Jackson overtook me and we had a run together. He was going to the Well Coll but preferred to have company and so came with me. We bowled along at a very good pace and landed at the Angel ½ minute under the hour from the Market Place, this considering the wind was NW and so not in our favour, I thought very good time. We had a liquer up and then off to Dogmersfield, Pilcot, Fleet and on to the Flats and along them to Blackwater, where we had another glass and then home via Crowthorne and Peel’s. Mr Jackson very much enjoyed the tour round, but coming home I was far too tired to enjoy it. In fact, it was positively painful from Broadmoor. 

36 miles 

Monday July 31 

In the evening I took a sharp run round Bracknell and Easthampstead just to get myself a little bit in trim for riding, for next week Rednall and I talk about going to Hastings on our machines. I quite enjoyed this little run round. Took up £100 change to Tangley. 

1893

Tuesday August 1 

Fearing I was getting stiff and old and incapable of doing a journey with ease, I started off this evening at 6.20 for the Marlow and Henley run as a kind of test. 

I took the first part steadily, for the road to Twyford was none too good and there was quite a side breeze, which was no good to me, so I took things quite easy to Knowl Hill. Passing the church, I saw I had just 20 minutes left to get to Marlow in the hour, so from there, I put along as best I could and reached the bridge one minute over the hour. I did not stop, but made my way towards Henley. I pushed up the hill and then had a delightful run, for the wind had dropped and the air was nice and warm and going along at a good pace. I quite enjoyed this pretty piece of road. 

I could not admire the scenery so well as I wished because of the innumerable quantity of gnats. I came down the hill towards Henley at a terrific pace, having given the bicycle a good start at the top. Called in at Henley and had a glass and a smoke, and then for home via Twyford and Bill Hill. I had a second drink at Twyford and got home at 9.10, so I did the round in 2 hours 50 minutes, and out of that, I stopped for the two drinks and to light the lamp, so I was very well pleased with my run, for the quickest time I ever done it before was 3 hours, and besides doing it quick, I very much enjoyed the ride and did not get tired or fatigued. 

Although the road was very good, I have known it very much better. From Bill Hill to Hurst was quite bad. 

33 miles 

Wednesday August 2 

Henry and I went for a run this evening. We left here at 4.50 and made our way to Bagshot via Bracknell, and very pretty and pleasant it was. We passed through Bagshot and on for the Golden Farmer. We pushed up the last part of the hill. We now had a splendid run down to Frimley and Hawley, where we called in at Sparvell’s and had some refreshments, and then home. The bridge over the Blackwater is under repair and so we had to go over planks. I left my waistcoat off and somewhat felt the cold wind, and if it had not been for that, I should have thoroughly enjoyed the run. 

26 miles 

Sunday August 6 

Was a perfect morning and I felt somewhat sorry I was not on my way to Hastings. Mr Rednall and I had arranged months ago to do that journey today, but Mr Spencer being very ill and likely to die, he had to stay at home, and so the undertaking fell through. I went to Chapel for the morning service. At 2.30, I started off for Guildford via Crowthorne. By the time I had reached Frimley, I was upon the point of turning back again, for the wind had got up strong and the weather was dull. However, I thought it would be as far to go home for tea as Guildford, so on I went on, and when I reached the Hog’s Back I had a very nice run to Guildford, for the wind was now at my side and did not hinder me so much. It took me 2¼ hours to reach Guildford. Had tea and then off home via Bagshot with the wind at my back, and so I put the bicycle along at a rattling good pace and got home in 1 hour 50 minutes. Before I left Guildford, it began to spit with rain and at Easthampstead it came down quite fast. I enjoyed the run home more than out. 

Monday August 7 

Henry and I had arranged to go round the Vale of the White Horse today, if fine, and he was to come down to breakfast at ½ past 6. The morning was most unpromising and looked like a wet day. I did not get up, but Bertha did and got breakfast all ready, and Henry came down at his time, and I then got up and we had breakfast, but decided not to venture out under such threatening and depressing circumstances. I did a little in the garden and then had a look at the cricket match. Had an early tea, and up to the shop for Henry, we having arranged to go for a run in the evening as we could not go in the morning. The weather now was fine and delightful. There was still a stiff wind on, so we thought it best to go with the wind and then, if it dropped, we should have the benefit of it. For this purpose, we directed our way to Maidenhead, via Binfield and Buck Farm, and a very nice run over we had, with scarcely any work. From Maidenhead, we went by Bourne End and Loudwater to Wycombe. This was a piece of road Henry has never been over, and very pleased he was with this pretty level waterside ride. We had a ride round the streets of Wycombe and bought some smokes, and made our way up the hill towards Marlow. Of course, we walked up. That we did not mind but rather enjoyed. The wind had now dropped to a calm as I expected it would and we had a lovely downhill ride before us to Marlow, but we were a little too late to see the view properly, it being past 8 o’clock. At Marlow, we had a refresher, and then a lovely ride home in the cool. There was a fete at Earley and we had a good sight of the rockets and the golden rain as we merrily bowled along the familiar old road towards home, which we reached as fresh as when I started, or more so. Henry was highly delighted with the ride, being especially pleased with the way along the valley from the Thames to Wycombe. We got home a little after 10 o’clock. 

40 miles 

Tuesday August 8 

I forgot to say that Chappell dropped in quite unexpected on Saturday last and stayed with us until today. 

Wednesday August 9 

It was too windy for a bicycle ride so I watched the cricket all the afternoon. The match was Swallowfield Park v Wokingham. S P went in first and made 101 runs, which they thought would be enough, but when Wokingham went in, they found otherwise, for when time was called, Wokingham had only lost 7 wickets for 553, with E E Lawrence not out 201. Murdock made 129, Heasman 64. The heavy batting very much pleased the spectators, and every now and then terrific shouts and clapping were heard from the pavilion. Such a score needs chronicalling. 

SWALLOWFIELD			WOKINGHAM
H. Leadbetter R. Templeton I. Bye J. Clost Rev. Bidale S. Chulter W. Brookes C. Priest I. Marks J.S. Pulay T.B. Petty	12 28 13 2 7 4 18 1 1 0 0		S. Maurice L.G.A. Collins S.W. Lawrence H. Brougham W.G. Heasman E.C. Murdock E.E. Lawrence F. Feltham P. Finch	4 89 20 2 64 129 no 201 17 no 3
Extras	14		Extras	24
	101			553

After the cricket, I took a run to Bracknell and Easthampstead just to keep myself in practice, for I intend going to Brighton next Monday if the weather is all right. 

10 miles 

Thursday August 10 

Did the journey as usual and had a very good day out. Mr Sugden saw me about his affairs. Mr Spencer died last night. 

Sunday August 13 

I attended the morning service and heard a young student preach very well, but before I went to Chapel, I had a run round Bracknell and Easthampstead, when I found the weather very warm indeed. After dinner, I got the bicycle ready for the journey to Brighton tomorrow. The evening is very close and the sky looks dark and thundery in places, but as the barometer is high and going up, I do not fear rain. 

Monday August 14 

I went to bed at 9 o’clock and fell off to sleep at once and slept til 1 o’clock, and then kept dozing off until ½ past 3, when Bertha called me and told me breakfast was all ready. I hurried up and had it, but was rather pushed for time, for I wanted to start quite by 4 o’clock. I ought to have got up a ¼ of an hour earlier, for I could not make a start until some minutes beyond that time, and it was 13 minutes past 4 as I passed through the Market Place on my way to Bracknell, to which place I took it quietly, but from there I began to put on the pace, so that when Bagshot was reached, I was just going at a good pace more comfortably. I started in excellent condition and felt well and fresh. The weather was perfect and the roads excellent, and I reached Guildford a minute or two before 6 o’clock, although I had to stop once to oil the bicycle because it talked so. I had a cup of coffee at the Coffee House, which took up just five minutes, so that at 4 minutes past 6 I was on my way for Horsham. The road for 12 miles was in excellent condition, but from there to Horsham they were very indifferent and, in places, bad. However, I got to Horsham at 7.55 and then I had a cup of tea and an egg, and left about 8.10. The road now was more bad than better to Henfield, where I had a glass of ale. From Henfield to Brighton was particularly bad, loose and dusty all the way and quite a breeze against me. 

I did not reach Brighton until 10.55. Put the bicycle up at the old place, sent a telegram home, had my boots cleaned, and then for a splendid swim in the sea, which was delightful in the extreme, for the weather was exceedingly hot and the warm sea water was like Epps’s Cocoa – grateful and comforting. I was in a long time, and as soon as I was dressed, went aboard the Skylark and had a nice sail on the ocean. It was a lovely day for a sail and very much I enjoyed the boat trip. It was ½ past 1 when we landed, so I made straight for dinner and then lay on the beach for a ½ hour.

At ½ past 2 I started for home in excessively hot weather, hotter than it has been for a year. I got up the long hill better than I expected and had a nice ride to Henfield, but from there to Horsham was very trying indeed and I had to lay down once or twice for a rest. At Horsham I had a wash and tried to have a tea, but my stomach would not take it, so I lay down on the sofa for a time and then went on my way for Guildford, and a few miles out had a tin of gravy soup which I had brought. This and the tomato I had for tea soon turned me sick, and very bad I was. However, I went on and at the Halfway House had a glass of ale, which I brought up again directly, and was so bad I barely knew how to get along. 

At last I reached Shalford by riding the down and walking the up, and there I took the 9.9 train for home, being utterly done up. It was not long before I went to bed and was soon asleep and slept well and soundly until 8 o’clock next morning. The day was too hot for such a journey, being the hottest we have had for many years. I ought to have come home easily enough, for there was a nice breeze at my back. To sum it up, I thoroughly enjoyed the turn down there, and as far as Henfield back. From there it was painful. 

100 miles 

Wednesday August 16 

Mr Gillman and I went up by the 4.20 to Well Coll and walked to Heath Park and I had a splendid bathe. I swam to the island. Came home by the 6.35. 

Sunday August 20 

I did not go out today but pottered about at home and went to Chapel in the evening. The weather during the past week has been the hottest I have ever known, 90 in the shade, but today there is quite a change, for it is windy, cloudy and looks like rain. Mr Jelley came down this evening. Frances went on a visit to Miss Maud Parker on Friday by the 3.11 train. 

Monday August 21 

Had a day at the books making out bills. 

Tuesday August 22 

After dinner I dug up and cleared and manured the garden along the wall border. 

Wednesday August 23 

Gillman and I went by the 3.30 to Well College and walked to Heath Park and had a bathe, and back by the 4.50. 

Thursday August 24 

Was up a bit earlier and did some gardening. The little squirrel got out of his cage and took his departure. The little blue bird died this afternoon. 

Friday August 25 

As I was taking some coffee to Tangley this evening a little after 8, I saw a hedgehog run across the road. I got off my bicycle and had a look at it but it was too large a one for me to carry home, so I let it go. 

Sunday August 27 

Went to morning service, and for a ride in the evening. We, that is Henry and I, left here on our bicycles at 5 o’clock and made our way to Odiham by the old route. Went up the street and then back to the Angel for a glass of ale and smoke. From Odiham, we passed on to Pilcot via Dogmersfield, thence by Crookham to Fleet. There, we turned to the right and on to Hawley and home by Yateley. It was a very nice run and we thoroughly enjoyed it. 

35 miles 

Monday August 28 

I went on the bicycle and called upon Mr Warnham about his account and arranged to take 30/- in settlement. I went via the Nine Mile Ride and came home by Barkham. After tea, I went to Earley to see James and take him some biscuits and a ½ crown. From there, I went on to the theatre and saw the Rose of Alhambra. Had a nice ride home by moonlight, which I enjoyed. 

22 miles 

Wednesday August 30 

I wanted Henry to have a run with me to Shamley Green to see the Rowly farm, but he did not seem up to a ride, so I went by myself, but not there. I had tea at 4 o’clock, and at ¼ to 5 I made a start for the Mortimer and Bramley road. I went by Barkham, Arborfield, Swallowfield and Beech Hill to Mortimer, which I reached in 55 minutes. From there, I put along at a grand pace and was soon round at the Soak and across the common to Little London and Pamber, and back to Bramley and Stratfield Saye and Turgis, along the Basingstoke road to Swallowfield and so home at 8.10. 

It was a beautiful calm evening, very warm and nice and I enjoyed the ride exceedingly and was well pleased with my performance. For it only took me 3 hours 25 minutes to do the round, and out of that I took 10 minutes stop for refreshments and to light up, and what made me more satisfied was that I started off feeling anything but fit or disposed for a ride. From Silchester Common right round to Swallowfield was splendid going, and as the pace was getting quick, it was delightful. The roads here were in A1 condition, but in many other places they were quite rotten. I did not feel at all tired or distressed when I got home. May I have many more such nice rides. 

42 miles 

1893

Sunday September 3 

After watering the flowers and bushes up the garden, I took a ride to Windsor Park by Binfield, Warfield and Winkfield. I sat down in the park and admired the beautiful appearance of the castle in the [illegible word]. It was slightly hazy, but the sun shone bright and made a very pretty picture. I came home by Hawthorne Hill and College Hill, got home at 1 o’clock. Had tea at 4 o’clock, and at 5 I was off for another ride out Mortimer way. I went through Barkham and Swallowfield to Beech Hill and nearly to Mortimer, but before I got to Mortimer, I turned left and by the camp to Silchester Common. There I had a glass of ale and then on to Little London and over the stream and then to the left for Bramley over some A1 roads and exceedingly rural and pretty. From Bramley, I went on to Stratfield Saye and through the Duke’s park to the Monument and thence by Swallowfield home. A very nice turn round of about 32 miles. 

32 + 24 = 56 miles 

Wednesday September 6 

I started off at ½ past 4, intending to go to Guildford, but when I got to Bagshot, I could see it would not do, for the weather was driving up stormy and it looked like rain, so when I got to Brookwood, I turned back and went round the little village and then on to Chobham and round by Valley End. I had a nice potter round there and eventually came out on to the Bagshot and Sunningdale road and then home through Easthampstead. Coming home, a few drops of rain fell, but we had no more. 

30 miles 

Sunday September 10 

It took me up to dinner time to put the garden a little in order and brush up the pieces. After dinner, at ½ past 2, I started off on the bicycle for Guildford again going via Bagshot, and although the wind was somewhat against me, I had a very comfortable ride over in a little under two hours. Had tea at Guildford and then on to Ripley and Byfleet. Along this piece of road, I had the company of two cyclists who were going to London. They were not fast travellers and so I had quite an easy eight miles and was ready to put it along when I parted company at Byfleet. I did not go, as I have always done before, into the town of Addlestone but left it on the right and, after going over a very long stretch of perfectly level road, came out at the lock where I once saw a boy fall in. From there, I turned to the right for Weybridge and thence home by Virginia Water, Sunningdale and Bagshot. The roads were in splendid order all round with the exception of the piece from Thorpe to Virginia Water. 

I went along at a very comfortable pace and enjoyed the run very much indeed, much more than I expected to. I also did it without any distress, although I rode all the way and did no pushing at all, not even up Guildford Street. On my way home from Bagshot to Easthampstead, I nearly ran over a fox, or rather, he ran across the road just in front of me. So long as I can thus enjoy a run of 50 miles or more after dinner, I shall not give up cycling. 

Mrs Sale came over by the ½ past 1 train and stayed a few hours. I should say by the time it took, then the run was about 50 miles. 

Monday September 11 

I went down by bicycle to Reading and called upon Mr Harvey to have a new back set of teeth put in, and this kept me at [illegible word] from 11 to 3. I called upon James both going and coming home. Met Mr Bayliss along the London road, if that is the name of the road by the hospital, and had a chat with him and asked him to run over and see us. 

14 miles 

Wednesday September 13 

Went home to dinner at ½ past 1, had it and changed my clothes, and off by the 1.54 to Reading. Called upon Mr Harvey and had the mould for the teeth fitted and then home by the 3.21. Had tea, and was ready at 4 o’clock to start off on the bicycle with Henry to Farnham, but as Henry was not ready by that time, we did not start until 4.25. We went by Elvetham, Crookham and Crondall into Farnham, and home by Aldershot and Hawley. At the foot of the long hill leading from Crondall, we came across two cyclists who had just had an upset, one seemed rather cut about the face. We did not stay, for there was a van and horse by them. We had a pretty sight of the hops at tea, and also of the baker’s cart delivering the bread at the barns where some were staying. 

At Farnham we had tea, ham etc at the Coffee House just off the High Street. The place was very clean, the meat good, the man civil and obliging, and their tea was also good. The charge was ridiculously good. It was 7 o’clock when we left Farnham, so we lit our lamps and had a very nice ride in the semi-darkness. I enjoyed the ride from start to finish, more than any this season, and it was no work for me to get round, nor was I in the least tired. Many pretty little sights I saw. I should like to get out often for rides like this. The weather was somewhat dull and looked a little like rain coming, but I was not in the least disposed to be depressed by it, and as I say I saw many pretty little pieces of scenery. 

36 miles 

Sunday September 17 

I did not go out today on the bicycle because I intend going to Margate by the excursion tomorrow. The morning I spent cleaning up the place and the workshop. Went to Chapel in the evening. Mr Jelley came down, and I was glad he did, because he having to be up early, my doing so would not inconvenience the household. 

Monday September 18 

Got up at 6 o’clock and had a comfortable breakfast and off to the station in plenty of time for the 6.55 excursion to Margate. Tom, I and Lilly with Mr Heskly and his daughter had a splendid 2^nd class to ourselves and had a most comfortable ride down. The morning was very dull and looked like rain, but before we got to our journey’s end, the sun came out bright and warm. Tom and the rest got out at Canterbury, and I went on to Ramsgate and there had a bathe, but the water was very cold so I did not stop long in it, but just had a nice little swim round two or three times and then out. After casting my eye round the place, I made my way to the station again and rode to Margate by the same train that Tom and Lilly came from Canterbury in. We at once made our way up to Charlotte Square and arrived at John’s at ½ past 1, which was the appointed time. Had dinner and a walk out over a bleak piece of country and back to tea at something past 5. It was then time to get back to the station, which we did just in time to secure the very same carriage as we came down in, only this time we had a smoking compartment. There were two other passengers, so we each had a corner seat. At Canterbury, Mr Eastwell got in, and at Tonbridge the others got out. It was a very comfortable ride home, and my whole expense was 4/6. 

Before I started, I had not much relish for the day out, and I did not enjoy it one bit. The train journey was comfortable enough, but the weather was too dull and I did not enjoy my time in Margate at all. I dislike the place more than ever. 

We left Margate at 6.10 and reached home a few minutes before 12 o’clock, so we travelled at about bicycle speed. 

Thursday September 28 

Bertha has been very unwell for a long time, and this week so bad that she has had no rest of a night, so today she went to London to see Mr Jelley. 

Saturday September 30 

Mr Sale moved into the farm at Rowly. Mrs Sale and James went by the first up SER and Mr Sale got out at Wokingham and came to our place and had breakfast. I gave him the money Mr Jelley left with me, £40.0.0 to pay Cap Parker. Bertha went up by the 9.15 and Mr Sale by the 8.25. Fortunately, they have fine weather both yesterday and today. 

1893

Sunday October 1 

Being a beautiful fine morning, I thought I would have a ride over to Rowly and see how the folks were getting on, so I left here at ½ past 8 and went via Easthampstead, and when I struck the Bagshot road I came across the young man from Drakes who came over last night to enquire the way to Guildford and I directed him by Bracknell. He started a little after 8 and I expected he would have got further on. We had a very nice ride to Guildford, where we called in and had a cup of coffee, and then on to Shalford, where he stayed, and I on to Rowly. The road was heavy going nearly all the way, and though we travelled slow, I got very hot and wet with perspiration. Just as I got to Rowly, the rain came on and lasted for about an hour. I made the doors open and shut a little better by cutting off a little at the bottom and filing the latches. We had ducks for dinner, after which I took a walk round and brushed up the place a bit. As the roads were so bad, I thought it best to come home by train, and as I did not know quite the distance to Shalford, I allowed myself 50 minutes and was only just in time, the train and I coming into the station together. As I was going to Shalford, I met Mr Jelley coming from Guildford, and had he not asked of me the way to Wonersh, would have passed unrecognised. I caught a bad cold, I think from the damp clothes after the ride over. 

25 miles 

Wednesday October 4 

I intended going to Rowly and took Hilda. We went to Shalford Station and walked the rest and had a very pleasant walk indeed. The day was delightfully fine and the country looked very pretty and Hilda much admired the beautiful scenery. Mr Jelley was down for the day and was busy getting the place ready for the chickens and I lent a hand at the work, so that by teatime we had got the place ready for them. I stayed the night and came home on 

Monday October 9 

Was up early and mowed the lawn and swept up the place a bit. It was a delightful morning and very pleasant it was over there, and I was loathe to leave so pretty a spot, but duty compelled me, and at 9 o’clock I mounted my bicycle and rode home and enjoyed the journey much. It was bright and sunny when I started, but soon a fog came over, and as it partly enveloped the hills round about Guildford, it gave them a very grand appearance. I saw a great quantity of chestnuts along the Bagshot road, but did not stay to get but one or two. 

25 miles 

Sunday October 15 

Although there was a strong SW wind and a general appearance of rain, I nevertheless started for Rowly. I left here at ½ past 10 and went via Blackwater, Ash and the Hog’s Back and had a very enjoyable ride. Between Blackwater and Frimley, I was attacked by a large black dog, but did not get bitten. I got to Rowly at ¼ past 1, but they had done dinner for their clock was an hour too fast. After I had dinner and a short rest, I took a walk towards Albury along the road and back, through the woods, a most level walk both ways. Mr Jelley came down at 8 o’clock and, after attending to Bertha, who is still very bad, sat down and talked on the farm affairs. I went to bed at ½ past 11, but had no sleep up til ½ past 3, and then was woken up by Mr Jelley at 4 and did not get off again. Got up at ½ past 5 and had breakfast and at ¼ to 7 started for home on the bicycle and had a very nice and enjoyable ride home, at which I arrived at ½ past 9. Mary had an operation yesterday, having a cancer taken from her. 

Tuesday October 17 

I took Mr Lucas round the journey today, and an exceedingly wet day we have had, and as it was a wet day, of course we had an extra way to go and an extra heavy load. Bertha and Hilda came from their stay at Rowly Farm. Hilda uncommonly well and Bertha bad. 

Wednesday October 18 

As the morning was bright and fair, I thought I would go over to Rowly this afternoon, but as I did not finish work so early as I expected, and I also had to go to Wixenford to see Miss Bartlett, who is staying there for a day or two, I postponed my visit to Bramley for a more convenient season and did some work in the garden at home by organising the plants in the greenhouse, and while so doing, a man came across the fields with some hot house plants and, seeing me, came in, and I bought 31.0.0 off him, principally palms and Indian Agapanthus. 

Sunday October 22 

The latter part of the week has been beautifully fine and the roads in A1 order, so I quite made up my mind to go to Rowly for today, but when I looked out of the window and saw the manner of the day it was, I had to abandon my arrangement, for it was a very dull and wet day, so I went to Chapel both morning and evening, at which there was a collection for the hospital. 

Sunday October 29 

Being such a nice morning, I went up for Henry to go to Rowly with me, which he did. We went on the Safetys and had a splendid ride over via the Hog’s Back. The roads were good and the sun shone bright and cheerful, and the wind, which was strong, was with us. We met Mr Cocksedge near Bramley. We arrived at Rowly a few minutes past 1 and were in plenty of time for dinner. After dinner, we took a rest and then went for a walk towards Albury and back through the woods, a most delightful walk. From the woods we had a very extensive view of all the country between us and the South Downs. We could plainly see the Chanctonbury Ring at Steyning. We had a very comfortable evening. Mr Jelley came down at 8 o’clock. 

25 miles 

Monday October 30 

I got up at 6 o’clock, had breakfast and did some work. Henry came down later, and when he had had his breakfast, he, I and Mr Sale went round to the mill and was shown over it by Mr Franks. It is a lovely spot, and this morning it certainly looked so, for the weather was gloriously fine and bright and almost summer like. Henry was particularly pleased with it, with the scenery, the mill and the miller. When we got back to Rowly home, we had a little lunch and then left for home and had a splendid ride all the way home. 

25 miles 

1893

Saturday November 4 

Bertha went to Rowly and Eva came here for the Sunday. 

Sunday November 5 

I went to Chapel in the evening and was pleased with the service. 

Monday November 6 

Commenced getting the loft ready for Tom’s goods, he having sold his place to Gadd and Co. 

Tuesday November 7 

Had a letter from Mr Jelley respecting Bertha, and also one in the evening which determined me to go over to Rowly tomorrow. 

Wednesday November 8 

I went by the 8.26 to Guildford and thence to Bramley and walked to Rowly. I went without my overcoat and was very cold but happy. Found Bertha getting on well. Had a walk to Lord’s Hill and then a dinner and off to Shalford and home by the 1.56. Blackwater was busy with the Fair. Came home and had a bit of dinner and a cup of tea to warm me and then to Reading to see about a new upper set of teeth, and home again by the 4.40. 

Sunday November 12 

Frances and I went to Rowly, Frances by the 6.29 SER to Shalford and I on the bicycle. Not having a good night’s rest, I was rather tired to enjoy the ride over. I ought to have enjoyed it, for I was happy and the weather was bright, but the wind, which was strong and very cold, was against me. I intended doing some work when I got to Rowly, but was too tired, so lay down in front of the fire and went to sleep til dinner time. After dinner, Frances, Eva and I went for a walk through the woods and had a good view round. Mr Jelley came down at 8 and attended to Bertha and also the chickens. I had a very comfortable evening. 

Monday November 13 

Although I was up late last evening, I had a very good night’s rest and was up betimes and down before it was light, but not before Mr Jelley, for when I came down to breakfast, he had been up and had his and attended to his sick fowls and was ready to start on his walk to Guildford. I had a nice breakfast and then at 20 to 7, I mounted my bicycle and started on my homeward journey. It was a delightful morning. Yesterday’s wind had passed away and now it was calm, with a clear sky and bright, and as I went on the sun rose in all his glory. It certainly was very cold at first, but by the time I got to Bramley and had had a good buffeting, I was soon warm and comfortable, and right merrily did I bowl along, being filled with gratitude for all the benefits I had lately experienced. 

As I drew near to Guildford, it was a grand sight that lay before me. How very pretty the place looked, as it was partially hid by the early morning smoke from the just litted fires mingling with the mist of that bright and glorious morning, and as it wreathed and hung about in places half obscuring the chimneys and houses, and giving the place a mystic and fairy like appearance. 

I kept a sharp lookout for Mr Jelley, and just as I reached High Street, I passed him walking sharp down the hill, and saluting him, I passed on through the town and away for Worplesdon, which, just before reaching, I saw his train pass along. With perfect road beneath, and bright and fine weather all round, I bowled along happy and comfortably and was not very long in reaching Bagshot. It is a wonderful season. The spring commenced so very early that summer was upon us in April and even now remained, for the leaves are still bright and green in many places, while in others they have the autumn colours. 

I got home at 9.10 and went down home and changed my clothes and then off to Reading by the 10.20 and called upon Mr Harvey to have my upper set of teeth fitted in. He had made an excellent job of them, and they fit like a glove, and I hope will do me good service. I paid him the £3.0.0 and consider I have value for money. 

I came back by the 12.4 and had dinner at the shop and then did my day’s work. I very much wanted Henry to go for a run, but he would not, for I knew such weather as this could not last, nor did it, for as darkness set in, so did the rain. 

25 miles 

Tuesday November 14 

Was quite a different day from yesterday, for after dinner it set in very wet indeed. 

Friday November 17 

Was quite mild and summer like, and the country is still well dressed with leaves, but for the last time this year, for 

Saturday November 18 

was a terrific day. After dinner, a fearful storm arose, snow first and terrific wind, a blizzard almost equal to that of 1881 on January 18. Lucas, the young man, had a very rough journey, poor chap. 

Sunday November 19 

The country was covered with snow and ice. I went to Chapel in the morning and heard a very good sermon from Mr Cave upon ‘The Bread from Heaven’. I did not go out again, but Frances and I had a comfortable time at home in the drawing room before a good fire while we listened to the wild storm still blowing, which shook the doors and rattled the windows. 

Tuesday November 21 

Was quite a change back again to mild and genial weather, which soon dispersed the frost and snow but did not bring back life to those poor creatures who perished in the 144 wrecks recorded in today’s paper. The wind of Saturday and Sunday blew some houses down and trains off the line, and stopped others. 

Bertha came home from Rowly this afternoon. 

Wednesday November 22 

Henry and Kemp went for a walk round by the Devil’s Jump etc. I put on the gas in the cellar and made a good job of it. I began and finished it today and had to attend to a good bit in the shop. 

Sunday November 26 

I went to Chapel in the morning and heard another good sermon. There was baptising in the evening, but I did not go but stayed at home and did some writing. 

Monday November 27 

After doing the booking and getting the orders ready for Lucas, I commenced altering the gas in the shop. 

Tuesday November 28 

I finished the alteration of the gas in the shop and made a very good job of it. I have also been very busy lately out back arranging the warehouse and packing Tom’s goods away. 

1893

Sunday December 3 

I went to Chapel in the evening and heard Mr Cave preach a good sermon upon the Supper of the Lord. 

Tuesday December 5 

I went on my bicycle to view Mr Prime’s house, there being a sale there tomorrow. 

Wednesday December 6 

Began fitting the gas in the warehouse. 

Thursday December 7 

Had a very good day for the journey. Henry went to the sale at Mr Prime’s but did not buy anything. The flamingos (two cases of stuffed birds) sold at a figure far beyond our reach. He missed the plants. 

Friday December 8 

Saw Mr Geo Sale, who was going to see about some things he bought at the sale, so I spoke to him about the plants, and as they were not sold, he bought them for me, and I sent the cart up in the afternoon for them. He bought four dozen for 16/-. 

Sunday December 10 

I put the plants in the hot house and rearranged the place and made it look very pretty with the aid of the new stuff. I went to Chapel in the evening. Eva came yesterday but was not very well, poor thing. 

Tuesday December 12 

Was the Christmas Market Day, and a fearful day they had for it too, for about 12 o’clock, a tremendous storm of terrific wind and much rain regaled and lasted until about 8 o’clock in the evening. It blew a part of Drake’s chimney down and broke in the roof, and many chimney pots and tiles were broken off. Lucas had the full force of the storm while on the journey. At Aldershot, a house was blown down and some killed, one man and two horses 

Wednesday December 13 

I finished the gas fitting in the warehouse. 

Thursday December 14 

Had a very nice day for the journey, but did not get home until ½ past 7. Yesterday, Frances bought some old Dickens works at Reading at 10½d each. 

Sunday December 17 

Went to Chapel for the evening service and enjoyed it. 

Wednesday December 20 

Shut up at 2 as usual and then I had the shop all to myself to put up the Xmas boxes, which I did, and got everything ready for the morrow, I got every Xmas box except three for Saturday. This took me up to nearly 10 o’clock. However, that I did not mind, for I felt relieved at having again got over that nasty job. 

Thursday December 21 

Now yesterday was a wet and rough day, but this morning turned out fine and calm, and very glad of it I was. I started on my journey in good time and in excellent spirits, for the weather was as good as it can be, and was so all day, and the evening was the very best I ever saw for this time of year – very bright moonlight, calm and comparatively warm. I had a very long and heavy day, and did I most comfortably and well. I called upon Mr Sugden at his request to see him about the account, but as it was past 6 o’clock when I got there, he thought I was not coming and so he posted on a cheque for £15.0.0. We had a comfortable explanation, and I had a cup of tea brought in. Although I was so very late, I did not worry much, for the moon shone brighter than I ever remember it doing, and the night was the most perfect I have ever seen for winter – very bright and light, calm and not at all cold. I quite enjoyed myself. There was something unusual about the day’s work. The orders were large and I did not mind working late for once in the way, and I felt so satisfied at having disposed of the Xmas box job. I had not that to stare me in the face for tomorrow. 

Friday December 22 

Had a good heavy day in the shop with the orders, which were very large, and did not get done until near upon 10 o’clock. 

Saturday December 23 

Got the journey off quite as early as I expected. Lucas had quite a cart load today. We were very busy in the shop right up to 9 o’clock in the evening. 

Sunday December 24 

Went to Chapel in the morning and heard Mr Cooper, much to my liking. Spent the evening at home writing. The weather came over wet and windy this afternoon, and in the evening very rough so that it had the appearance of being a very rough Christmas, but… 

Monday December 25 – Xmas Day 

turned out a lovely morning and continued so all day. The sun shone and the atmosphere was most genial and spring like and altogether as nice a day as could well be, and seemed to put everyone in good spirits. I did work at home and cleaned up the place a bit. Then I took up some plants to the Market Place and two of my lamps to make it a little better for the party there this evening. We all sat down to turkey there and stayed the evening until 12 o’clock. 

Tuesday December 26 

Was at work at home in the garden and putting the place tidy until 5 o’clock, when we all went to Mrs Rainbow’s to tea and supper. The weather again has been lovely and warm and I continued weeding in the garden with comfort and felt not in the least cold. In fact, I had to take off my coat. 

Wednesday December 27 

Sent Lucas a short round today and got my orders ready for tomorrow. We closed at 4 o’clock. I went to the theatre at Reading and saw ‘Bonnie Boy Blue’, a comic burlesque. It was but middling. The pit was full. 

Saturday December 30 

Bertha went to Rowly by the 12 train, and Eva came here. Mr Harris sent a large goose, which I sent to Rowly. 

Sunday December 31 

Was at home all the morning, and as it was frosty, I had to light the greenhouse fire. Went to Chapel in the evening. I sat up til nearly 12 o’clock, so I heard the bells toll out the old and ring in the New Year. Then my greenhouse fire, or rather the water boiling, made such a noise I could not get to sleep until 2 o’clock.