1897

Friday January 1

They say that Friday is an unlucky day, but because the year happens to begin with one, I hope it may not be an unlucky one.

Wednesday January 6

Louie Rainbow had a party to which was invited, and went, Henry and Millie, Bertha and I, and Philip and his wife. We had an uncommonly pleasant afternoon and evening. Philip read several pieces and we had a long and pleasant chat about old times, and altogether passed a happy evening.

Saturday January 23

Up til now we have had no cold or frosty weather, but yesterday afternoon a cold snow storm came in the shape of a blizzard, and entirely altered the character of the weather so that today is exceedingly rough, and travelling is bad because of the snow, which has drifted and made some parts of the road unpassable for traffic. By sending White’s goods by carrier from the White Hart, and not going to Perkins’, Mr Terry was able to get round and home by 8 o’clock.

Thursday January 28

I had a rough journey through the ice and snow, but I did not mind it, and though I got home late, I got home very well and not overdone.

Sunday January 31

A cold miserable kind of day. Although yesterday was wet, the snow has not quite gone, and, in places, the ice is still in it. I went to Chapel for the morning, and was at home for the evening, when I wrote out From Night to Morning ready for the printers. All last week, Henry had a cold, and of course, a bad one. He was in bed with it on Monday. On January 11^th, the day after her 21^st birthday, Frances went to Stamford for a month or so. Tom gave her a gold ring, John a dressing case, and Norah, a nice bead bag.

1897

Wednesday February 3

I went to Reading by the 6.3 train and to the theatre to see The Sign of the Cross. I tried for the pit stalls as usual, but they were all booked right up to Saturday, so I squeezed into the early pit doors and got a capital seat. I was only just in time, for the rest of the seats soon filled up to starting point, and when the piece commenced, I don’t think there was an empty seat. It started punctually at ½ past 7 and finished at ½ past 10, and for three hours I had the grandest treat I have ever had at a theatre. The piece was well put on, and the acting and singing was superb. It is a beautiful drama, and full of the purest gospel, and I received more benefit from it than from any other service I have been to. I reckon it will take a long time for the two characters, Marcia and Marcus, to fade from my memory. I came home delighted with my evening at The Sign of the Cross.

Thursday February 4

Had a very nice day, but wet evening, for the journey.

Friday February 5

Got the orders done early and then I took Bertha to see The Sign of the Cross, and she, like me, was highly delighted and pleased with the piece.

Saturday February 13

The only thing to mention this week is that yesterday I took to Mr Gotelee a copy of the verses on an early morning bicycle ride for him to get printed.

Monday February 15

Henry is laid up again with his cold. I went to a meeting in the Hall this evening of the Free Church Organisations Society, and heard some very good speeches.

Saturday February 20

Henry is still in bed. I got off the journey earlier than usual. There has been some cheap mutton selling in the market today. Legs for a shilling to 1/6 and other parts in proportion. I have had a cold, which has made me feel anything but well this week.

Sunday February 21

Went to Chapel this morning and heard Mr J Cooper preach an excellent sermon, one of his very best from Give ye them to eat.

Tuesday February 23

Last week, the roads were as muddy as they could well be, and looked as if it would take all the summer to dry them sufficient for cycling, but today, they are in excellent order, white, hard and dry, so I went for a little ride this afternoon to Bracknell and Easthampstead and enjoyed my first run this year.

13 miles

Thursday February 25

Had a tremendously windy day for the journey. However, I got on my way very well and enjoyed the day out.

Friday February 26

Ordered a bell and a new cyclometer off Tom. Went for a ride round Hurst before tea. A pretty little ride. Windy but pleasant.

8 miles

Saturday February 27

Frances came home from Stamford by the 6 o’clock train, but not very well. Bicycle came back from Humber’s.

1897

Thursday March 4

Started off on the journey in tremendously rough weather, very heavy rain and terrific wind for the first two hours, then it cleared off and came out fine and sunny but still in nasty high wind.

Sunday March 7

Went to Chapel in the morning but did not stay to L.S. A nice fine day, but the roads muddy so could not get out on the bicycle. Went for a walk in the afternoon.

Monday March 8

Began altering the shelves in the case in the provisions side of the shop. Paid Lousie 10/-.

Wednesday March 10

Finished the above job.

Thursday March 11

Had a nice day for the journey until 5 o’clock when a cold wet storm came on with a strong wind which quite spoiled the day and made it miserable riding home.

Sunday March 14

A wet miserable day so far as the weather is concerned. I went to Chapel in the morning but did not stir out again all day. It looks as if we were now in for a long spell of wet weather, not that we want it, goodness knows, we have had a wet time since last June.

Monday March 15

Having put new shelves in the case on the provisions side, I packed the things in today and got an astonishing lot in. Had a specimen sheet from Mr Gotelee of the From Night to Day.

Tuesday March 16

A rare lot of wet again today.

Thursday March 18

A terrifically windy day. It began by a deluge of rain from 8 to ½ past 9, and then the wet cleared off and we had no more until a sharp shower at 1 o’clock. Going out, the ditches everywhere were overflowing, and more wet about than I have ever seen. Coming home, the dust began to blow about, and the roads were clean and white and dry, the most remarkable change I have ever seen from wet to dry. Although the wind was so rough, I enjoyed the day out very well – it was not cold.

Friday March 19

Had a copy of From Night to Day from Mr Gotelee this morning. Took it down home for Frances to look over, and found the top of six of the rain rails off in front of Gordon Villas.

Saturday March 20

Was a beautiful fine day, calm and warm, the first we have had for many a month. Frances went for a ride on the bicycle to Yateley etc. Roads in A1 order.

Sunday March 21

Began dull, but while we were in Chapel it cleared off nice and bright. Had tea at 4 o’clock, and then Henry and I went for a nice little run to Eversley, Heckfield, Mattingley and home by Hartley Row. The weather was delightful, the roads perfect and we thoroughly enjoyed this first run round together. Saw a large quantity of mistletoe in the trees forming the lime avenue on Heckfield Flat. Many pretty little sights we had, and then as we struck the Hartley Row road, we came across Mr Howard and his party and rode with them to the Chequers at Eversley, where they called for refreshments, and we came on and got home just in time to save lighting up.

23 miles

Monday March 23

A beautiful day, but dull evening. After tea I took a parcel to the Rectory, Finchampstead and on round Eversley, and home. Put a shelf under the bacon counter for the crystallised fruits.

14 miles

Wednesday March 24

The Humber, still making a noise when working up inclines, I got from Howards a new chain, and this has entirely got over the trouble. To try it, Frances and I went for a ride to Eversley and New Mill, and as we found the Nine Mile Ride way was gravelled, we turned up the Bath road to West Wood, where I called in see Mrs Booker, but she was gone to the Bramshill Hunt, so we went on and overtook her, and had a few words and home by Barkham. The wind has been blowing a hurricane all day, and was against us to New Mill. The Humber went noiseless, as it has never done before. We enjoyed the little ride round of 15 miles.

Sunday March 28

Went to Chapel this morning and heard a missionary from China, a Mr Smyth. He was very interesting and lively, a good speaker and a witty one, too. In the evening, I stayed at home and all the rest went to Chapel to hear him. They got caught in a terrific storm going and, of course, got very wet. No chance for a ride today.

Monday March 29

Bertha and Millie walked to the Banister’s, Finchampstead to view the house, and see the articles for sale. After tea, I went round Barkham and home by Sindlesham, a pretty little ride. I then went to the missionary meeting at 7.30, and had a treat, for Mr Smyth made the most lively and witty speech I have ever heard in a place of worship.

8 miles

Tuesday March 30

Was a lovely day. Henry went to the Banister’s and bought a carpet for £4.10.0 and was pleased with his bargain. Frances and I went to Binfield and home by Billingbear after tea.

8 miles

Wednesday March 31

Was a nice morning, but about 1 o’clock, it began to rain, and by 3 o’clock had settled into a soaking wet evening. There was a meeting at the Wesleyan Rooms – a coffee supper and entertainment, the last of the season. I went because they wanted me to give a recitation. We had a very full room and a long programme. Everything went down very well, but when it came to my piece, which was the Black Job, they were so taken with it that I had to stop several times for the audience to settle down, and by so doing, I left out a half of the piece. However, it did not matter, for they knew it not and they were most uproarious in the piece, but as there had not been any encores before, I did not think it well to respond. I was never so appreciated as here.

1897

Sunday April 4

Went to Chapel this morning and for a ride after tea to Knowl Hill and back, a run which I enjoyed very much. Saw the Hawthorn out.

19 miles

Monday April 5

Frances and I went this evening over the same ground, and a little further, for we went to Burchett’s Green and Littlewick, and back up the Bath road, and enjoyed our ride. Saw Mrs Hall at Knowl Hill.

22 miles

Mr Eaton’s birthday being tomorrow, I wrote him a little letter.

Tuesday April 6

Had my little books come from Mr Gotelee, From Night to Day, 100 of them and got up very nicely.

Sunday April 11

Was a nice bright morning but a little windy and cold. I stayed at home and did a little in the garden, intending to go for a ride after tea, but the afternoon came over dull and very cold and a strong wind, so did not go out but did a little more in the garden. In the evening, I wrote a general letter and got my last piece From Night to Day ready to send out.

Monday April 12

Was a very dull, cold, windy day. I pulled up the weeds from the lawn and got very tired at the job. Sent off From Night to Day to my friends.

Tuesday April 13

Got Mr Terry off on the journey early, and the orders ready for tomorrow all done by tea time. Then I put some turf down round the flower bed, and after 8 o’clock, I went up to Wixenford to see Mr Arnold and had a long talk with him until nearly 11 o’clock. This was the most comfortable time I have had up there. We had a fire in the library, an easy chair and wine and biscuits and cigarettes.

Wednesday April 14

I went the journey today instead of Thursday, and had a very nice day for the job, and got home early and did a little more to the lawn, and planted 2 lb of lawn seed and rolled it in.

Thursday April 15

We had a long lot of orders to put up for the journey, which took us until 9 o’clock before we finished. We were also busy in the shop, far more nowadays. Since yesterday, the weather has greatly improved, and today has been gloriously fine, and it has every appearance of settled fine and warm weather now. We have waited many months for it, and now it seems as if it has come just at the right time. As I went home tonight, and the moon was shining clear and bright, and all was calm, I was sorry I had not made any arrangement to go for a run tomorrow. This is about the only Easter I have not done so, and now when the weather need cause me no anxiety, I have missed my chance.

Friday April 16 – Good Friday

A darned, villainously miserable, cold, wet and rough day. Bertha and a party drove to New Mill in the afternoon, and just escaped the wet. I puddled about at home thankful that life was not all holidays if this is the kind of weather we are to have for them. The day certainly saved people wasting their time on thanks.

Saturday April 17

A very good day for business, but spoiled by Mr Terry coming home a pound short.

Sunday April 18

Was fine and that was all. Mr Lucas came to tea with Mr Kelly. Mr Lucas and I went for a walk in the evening.

Monday April 19

Henry and Millie went to Geo Woods at Tunbridge Wells. Mr Terry went home. The morning was very nice and bright and tolerably warm. Frances and I decided for a day out on the bicycles. Willie Walden would have come but he could not get a bicycle, so I went round to see if Willie Neave would like to go, and as I was coming back from his place, my tyre burst and that delayed us for a half hour while Mr Neave and I mended it. About 11 o’clock, we made a start in fine weather, but we had no sooner started than it began to cloud over and got cold and windy. We went to Heckfield, Sherfield and Basingstoke and had a pleasant ride to there, but from there to Herriards was against the [illegible word] and we wanted our lunch. There was no pub between Basingstoke and the New Inn at Herriards, which was five miles. However, we came to it at last and had our lunch there. When we came out, it was desperately cold and windy, but we soon got out of that by rushing down Lasham Hill and into Alton. It was very nice going the last three miles. We went up into Alton, and at once turned back for Odiham, for it was too early for tea there. Now directly we turned back and had the wind with us, so that it was quite early up the Golden Pot hill, and both Frances and Mr Neave enjoyed the uphill ride, and so they did the piece from the G.P. to South Warnborough. They thought it the nicest piece of road they had been over. We got on to Odiham very easily, and at the Angel had a very nice tea. Instead of coming straight home, we went to Dogmersfield, Pilcot and Fleet, a ride they very much liked. It was a very pleasant day’s outing and was enjoyed by each of us, and I think we all came home fresh and all the better for the day’s ride. We heard the cuckoo and the nightingale, and saw the swallow for the first time this year. Bertha had a comfortable day at home with Hilda.

56 miles

Tuesday April 20

Mr Terry, at our invitation, brought his sister down for a few days.

Wednesday April 21

Hired a bicycle off Mr Howard for Miss Terry, and after tea we, that is Frances, Miss Terry and I, went round Binfield. The weather looked too threatening for any long ride.

Friday April 23

I got the orders done early and after an early tea, Miss Terry, Frances and I went for a bicycle ride to Hartley Row, Winchfield Union and home by Elvetham. There was a strong NE wind on, but the only place it was against us to any extent was by Winchfield Union. It was a very pleasant turn round, and I think Miss Terry enjoyed it.

21 miles

Saturday April 24

Miss Terry went back by the 10.20 to Croydon. I went with some cheese to Bearswood after tea. An intensely cold day with a fierce N Easterly – far colder than winter.

Sunday April 25

To Chapel in the morning and with Henry for a ride after tea to Barkham, Arborfield, Swallowfield, Beech Hill, Mortimer, Binfield, Reading and home. Although there was an easterly air, and a blackish distant view, we much enjoyed the little ride. Beyond Mortimer, we saw a heron flying towards Heckfield.

29 miles

Monday April 26

Saturday evening, Hilda had the bicycle I hired for Miss Terry and was practising upon it, but could not go alone. Yesterday, she sat in the greenhouse and looked at it, and longed for the morrow. Today, she mastered the job and rode quite nicely up and down the lanes.

Tuesday April 27

Set the window out with brushes.

Wednesday April 28

John came up from Margate to see Henry about selling his business. He came by the 12.30 train and so kept Henry from a run, for he and Tom and Henry went for a walk in the evening to think things over. Frances and I went for a ride to Greywell and had tea there, and a walk after through the woods, and then home via Odiham. It was a splendid afternoon and evening, by far the best day we have had for over six months. From start to finish we thoroughly enjoyed the time out. We left here at 3.40 and got to Greywell at 5. Left there at ¼ to 7 and home at 8. It was a lovely ride home. Though we travelled tolerably fast, and rode nearly all the hill including Star Hill, Frances came home fresher than when she started. As usual, their tea in first class style at the Fox and Goose, and Frances being ready for it, did it justice. The birds in the woods were in high ding dong, and the wild flowers were very pretty there.

29 miles

Thursday April 29

John went back. A very good day but not like yesterday.

Friday April 30

Had a letter from Mr Arnold saying he should be home today and would I come up in the evening. I did so and had a long talk with him until 9.30.

1897

Saturday May 1

I got a bicycle from Mr Howard’s for a gentleman coming on a visit to Mr Arnold, so I took it up this morning and had another half hour or so with Mr Arnold. The gentleman, when he came in the evening, bought a machine and so did not require Howard’s.

Sunday May 2

It was a nice bright morning, and after breakfast, I went up to see if Henry would have a day out, and as I had spoken to him about it last night, he was nearly ready. Last night, Redgie Barkshire and his friend Mr Colyer, came down on bicycles and put up at our place, and was here until this evening. Bertha was well pleased with their behaviour. Henry and I started at 10 o’clock and decided upon Selborne for our destination. Instead of going direct, we went via Sherfield, Basingstoke and Herriards. Although we had to go against a strong SW wind, we thoroughly enjoyed the ride out, for the weather was lovely and bright, and everything looked very pretty in the sunshine. It took a little over 1¾ hours to Basingstoke, and considering the wind, we thought that very good, especially as we did not hurry anywhere. We had our lunch at the New Inn, Herriards, and I enjoyed it much more today than on Easter Monday, for it was not so cold today. The ride to Lasham and thence to Alton was very grand and much we enjoyed it.

We dropped into Selborne at ½ past 2 with the sun shining on the Hanger. We put up at the Selborne Arms and ordered tea for 4 o’clock. We now made for the Long Lithe, but that sunshine on the Hanger was the last of his rays, for it was now all clouded over, and the wind much stronger and colder. However, we had a nice little walk round, gathering flowers and looking for nests. When we came back to the Inn, the landlord had forgotten all about the tea, and the women being out, could not get it for us. I, myself, was not sorry, for it didn’t look a very inviting place, so we mounted our machines and made for Alton, and were there before we could look round, and at the Temperance Hotel, just this side of the place where we had tea before, we were well served, and had a first rate tea for 1/-, and a very nice room to have it in.

We had a lovely run home, for the wind had dropped considerably. Still there was enough to be useful to help us along. From Odiham, we came home by Dogmersfield and Fleet, and from Alton, the first dismount was Minley Lodge, the rise up to it. We got home at ½ past 7 having had a splendid day out and enjoying it much. It would have been better if it had been sunny at Selborne, but otherwise everything was as good as we could wish. It was 35 miles there and 30 back.

65 miles

Monday May 3

Paid Louisa Silver her wages, 10/- due today.

Tuesday May 4

Took Willie Walden for a nice ride after tea to Bracknell, Winkfield and Windsor Park and home by Warfield and Binfield. The wind was beastly cold and quite spoilt the evening to me. Crossing over the stream at the foot of College Hill, Willie Walden wanted to know where we were, and I led him to suppose it was the Thames, and we were coming to Wargrave, and he did not find out the delusions until within a few yards of the London road, by Mrs May’s.

22 miles

Wednesday May 5

Closed at 1 o’clock, but I did nothing. It was too windy and cold to venture out on the bicycle. George Woods and Margaret came to the shop by the 8 o’clock train to stay for a week. Bertha, Frances and Hilda went to a concert in the Town Hall given by the Bracknell Friends.

Thursday May 6

Went the journey. Intensely cold wind, worse than winter.

Thursday May 9

Was a nice bright day but very windy. Herbert Sale came over from Odiham for the day. The wind being NW and very strong, he had a tiring ride over. Henry, Tom, Woods and Kemp went for a walk in the evening. Mr Terry and I went for a ride. We started a little after 3 o’clock in very nice weather and with the strong NW at our back for Greywell. I did not feel very enthusiastic for the run, and feared it would be a little dull. However, it was the reverse of that, and we had a very enjoyable ride over there, and while tea was preparing, we walked to the Castle and back by the canal. Had a nice tea, as usual, and then a very pretty walk through the woods and back. We came home by Odiham and Fleet, and a lovely ride it was. The wind gradually died down, and by the time we had to turn against it, it had entirely gone down. This was the best run out I have had this season, and I think today was the first really enjoyable day we have had this year so far as the weather is concerned. We met the two Miss Porters going into Wokingham, and also met them coming back. We also came across Alfred Porter with a young lady in the road from Fleet to the Flats. Didn’t expect to enjoy the run, but enjoyed it very much indeed.

32 miles

Monday May 10

Henry, Kemp and Geo Woods went the usual Hog’s Back walk.

Wednesday May 12

Geo Woods, Tom, Henry and I had a delightful walk after tea round Easthampstead etc.

Thursday May 13

Geo Woods and Margaret went home by the 9.15 SER. Mr and Mrs Eaton came by the 12.30.

Friday May 14

Frances and I went for a ride on the bicycle this evening. We left here at 6.20 and went to Mortimer via Swallowfield and Beech Hill. From Mortimer we went on to Pamber, Little London and Sherborne St John, and back by Bramley, Sherfield, Heckfield, Eversley and Finchampstead. A very nice, easy and enjoyable ride all the way round. Although the sun was not out, it was bright and luminous, and there was no wind at all. We had refreshments at Sherfield. The birds were lovely, especially by the ‘Vines’ between Sherborne and Bramley. Mr and Mrs Eaton came yesterday.

39 miles

Sunday May 16

Mr Terry and I went for a day’s outing on the wheels, I on Tom’s and he on mine. We had a very nice run over to Shackleford, where we had lunch at the Cider House. The cider was good and we very much enjoyed our dinner, which we had outside the house. After dinner (which we ate clean up), we had a rest close to Peper Harow park. There we lay in the sunshine and shelter, while the wind was blowing hard over the top of the trees. From Shackleford to Guildford was dead against the wind, and very hard. Had a tea at the Bridge House Coffee Tavern, and then on towards Ripley, but as the wind was so terribly strong, we turned off for Woking, and so somewhat avoided it. It would have been a pretty ride along here, but the weather was now overcast, dull and very windy. We came home via Bracknell, and I was glad to get home. I liked the ride up to dinner time, but after that I cared little for it.

60 miles

Wednesday May 19

After tea, I had a very nice little turn out. Left here just before 6 and had a very easy ride before the wind to Odiham, and then a walk down the canal and back, and then home via Dogmersfield and Elvetham. It was very beautiful out, and much I enjoyed the ride. The company have done a lot to the canal in the way of cleaning it out, and making the footway of six feet width all along. I have not seen the canal so full as it now is.

29 miles

Friday May 21

Frances and I went round Hurst after 7 o’clock this evening and had 12 miles of very pretty riding.

12 miles

Sunday May 23

Mr and Mrs Eaton came again for a few days yesterday, on their way back from Trowbridge. A nice kind of day. I went to Chapel for the morning service, and after an early tea, Henry and I went out on the bicycles. We had quite a round about ride to Eversley, where I left Mr Burbidge some change, thence to Heckfield, Mattingley, Rotherwick, Newnham, Basing, Mapledurwell, Greywell, by the lake to South Warnborough, Long Sutton, Odiham, where we had a glass of ale at the Angel and saw Mrs Birch, the late Miss Berryman. We came home by Dogmersfield, Elvetham and Eversley. It was a most enjoyable ride, and the part from South Warnborough to Odiham was fresh road to us, and very pretty. We were rather a long time getting around, as the distance was only 45 miles and we started at 5 and got home at ½ past 10. It was a beautiful evening and everything looked beautiful.

45 miles

Monday May 24

Put the cellar tidy. After tea, Frances and I went on the bicycles. Left at 6 o’clock and went to Hartley Row, Odiham and nearly to South Warnborough, where we turned off to Long Sutton and home from there the same route as Henry and I came yesterday. We had a beautiful evening for it. The wind helped us over, and then dropped to a calm when we turned back. From South Warnborough through Long Sutton to Odiham, the road was lined with a thick profusion of wild flowers. It was particularly lovely coming home by Dogmersfield, and after a refresher at the Barley Mow, most enchanting by Elvetham, and right away home.

35 miles

Wednesday May 26

It rained a little in the afternoon and evening. I spent the after part of the day in the garden. We are very much in want of rain, for we have had a long dry time now, of nearly a month. It has not only been dry, but there has been a fierce NE wind blowing for the last six weeks, which has made the surface of the ground very hard.

Sunday May 30

Eatons went back last Thursday by the 2.4 train. I went to Chapel this morning and intended to go out in the evening for a ride, but just as I was starting the rain came on and so I did not go, but sat in the hawthorns and enjoyed the sound of the falling rain. Willy Neave came to tea and Philip Sale to supper.

Monday May 31

Cleared the front and oiled the woodwork. Put in the geraniums and other plants after dinner. Had tea early, and then Henry and I had a pretty ride to Bagshot via Easthampstead, thence to Sunningdale, Virginia Water, Winkfield, Fifield, Boveney, Holyport and Waltham home. Being a nice evening, and the roads in good order, we much enjoyed he ride.

1897

Wednesday June 2

Henry, Frances and I to Odiham after an early cup of tea. We had a grand ride over, good weather and good roads. We were on the water by ¼ past 6 and had a beautiful time of it until 8, going up as far as the end of Dogmersfield and back. Came home via Hartley Row and got home in good time, having had a most pleasant afternoon and evening out.

26 miles

Thursday June 3

Sent Davis with the goods and I went on the bicycle round the journey. A beautiful day.

Saturday June 5

Was a beautiful day and everything promised for a fine Whitsuntide. Had we been going to camp, we could not have wished for a better time to get ready in. Being such a nice fine day, I almost wished we had been going. However, as Henry and I intend going for a bicycle ride on Sunday and Monday, we can still appreciate the day.

Sunday June 6

A beautiful morning with a thick haze which portended a hot day. Turned out at a little after 6, had a good breakfast and plenty of time to get ready. Henry came down at 8 o’clock, and by ½ past, we were off on our way to Finchampstead.

We started off with leaving all well and happy at home. The weather was A1 and the roads ditto. A pleasant two hours run brought us to the top of Cliddesden Hill, where, as we got nearer heaven, seemed to get very much nearer and necessitated an alteration of garments. A lovely downhill ride, with feet up, brought us to Preston Candover, where we had a liquer up at the Inn opposite the Church. Of course we dismounted at the yew avenue just to have a look round and refreshed our memory. The uphill on to the Alresford Downs was negotiated very easily. We stopped not at Alresford, but walked through the town, not because of the dense traffic, but rather to see the old place. We had our dinner at King’s Worthy and watched the cyclists go by. After dinner, we dropped down into Winchester, put up our machines, and had an hour’s rest in the Cathedral grounds.

We left Winchester a little after 3 o’clock for Romsey. The wind was now tolerably strong and against us too, and we felt it the more being on such high ground. After we got down the hill to Hursley and in the valley it was much calmer and we got along nicely and were soon at Romsey. Along the valley from Hursley to Romsey we saw a large quantity of trees that had been blown down by the early gales of this year. Not liking the look of our old Coffee Tavern next to the ‘Cross Keys’ we went to one nearly opposite, and there we were done well, and so were the eggs.

While tea was getting ready, we went out into the yard, and at the pump had a delightful wash down and bathed our heads in water. The pump evidently drew the water from one of the many streams which abound there, for it was beautifully soft and not too cold. This wash was worth a lot, and being thoroughly refreshed, I much enjoyed the tea, and was invigorated for the rest of the day. Being Sunday, the blinds were down in the coffee room, and the cool and the shade after being out all day in the bright weather, was most grateful.

We now had a short evening run of 18 miles, and it would have been only 16 had we taken the first turning to the right when on the road to the New Forest, but this I did not know then, and so we went on to the turning which we took last year. We had a very enjoyable ride to Salisbury though the wind was dead against us. Having such a short distance to do, and plenty of time to do it in, there was no reason to hurry. Some parts of the road were very delightful, and this time we had a good view of Salisbury as we dropped down into it from the heights. I reckoned we should get there at 7 o’clock, and as we entered the city, it was 6.58. We made straight for the Phoenix Coffee house, had a wash down and then two hours stroll round the city, which was very pleasant, had a good supper and off to bed by 10 o’clock having had a most enjoyable and pleasant day out.

Monday June 7

Up at 8 o’clock and found a glorious morning awaiting us. Had a good breakfast, and at 9.25, we made a start for Amesbury. Instead of doing as we did last time of going to Old Sarum, we took the left road at the Recreation Ground and avoided the long uphill.

We crossed over the stream as early as possible and had one of the most delightful valley runs imaginable. Last year, we went the other side of the stream, and that was pretty, but this was better still. It was calm and the sun shone bright and warm, and we were in perfect health and spirits, and had as fine a treat in the way of cycling that is possible to imagine. Everything tended to make a perfect ride.

It was Whitsuntide and at every village where there was not actually a Club, the inhabitants were going off to the next where there was, all dressed in their best, and merry. At one village, there was an excellent band playing outside the Clubhouse. We got off to pass them, and looking over a garden opposite, we counted over 100 bee hives, or rather Hives of Bees. Entering another village, we met the band heading to the Club and filling the valley with music.

We came into Amesbury on the Stonehenge road. At the bridge we stopped a few minutes to admire the waterfall, and well we might, for it was at its best, the morning sun shining right on to the Falls and turning the water into heavenly whiteness. The Falls seem the overflow of a little lake, for the stream that feeds it is hid by the rising ground and the wood, which came right down to the water’s edge. After a little rest here, we made a move, for as I said then, if we stayed all the morning there, we should not be able to take in all its beauty. Walking up the street of Amesbury, we met the Clubs going to Church, each headed by a band, and as they played hymn tunes, it sounded most enchanting.

We had a pint of ginger ale (two bottles) between us at the Inn, and then away up the stream again and had a perfect ride to Upavon, where we had our lunch at the Inn where Geo Woods and Kemp put up. Here again there was a Club on, but they were in church, so we saw them not. We had a most pleasant lunch time and talk to the people there. A man told us how his father last week collided with a cyclist round a corner and the cart went over the cyclist and that overturned the trap and the pony on to his back. The bicycle was not hurt, and the cyclist not very much, but the man in the trap more.

We didn’t make a stay at Upavon after dinner, just a walk down the stream and then away on our journey. Because although it was beautiful, sunny and bright, there were indications of an alteration and we thought it best to secure the fine weather and proceed. It was a good job we did, for by the time we reached Pewsey, there was a thick atmosphere right away in front, and the wind began to rise and looked like driving it over us. We had a very nice rise to Hungerford, but it would have been much better had there been no wind. However, we enjoyed the ride and did not feel in the least afternoon-fied. We had a nice tea at the place by the bridge, and also another good wash up at the pump in the yard. In spite of quite a strong wind, we got to Newbury remarkably easy and enjoyed the ride. Leaving Newbury, another glass of ale (ginger) carried us in grand style to Aldermaston, where we had another, and sat down outside the house and enjoyed the pretty scene before us. In the strength of this last drink, we sailed away home and finished up one of the most enjoyable cycle runs.

Leaving out the gusting of the wind, which was never for us, and when it did stir, was chilly against us, we had a perfect two days outing. Although as I say, when there was any wind, it was against us, yet it never gave us any great inconvenience, it simply kept us from bowling along too fast. Sunday was very hot, but the sun was tempered by a grateful haze and the atmosphere was delightful. There was just enough cloud to shelter us, and plenty of sunlight to brighten up the scenery. We got into Salisbury as fresh as when we left Wokingham, and wound up the day with a pleasant and happy time by walking round the city and Cathedral. Monday was glorious, yes, glorious and I never more enjoyed a ride than that from Salisbury to Upavon, or for the matter of that right home. Everything was at its best and it was holiday and Club time. Mowing had not yet commenced, and the meadows, especially those in the valley by the streams were luxuriant with grass and all the wild flowers in their prime. If it ever falls to my lot to go along those valleys again, I cannot expect to see them quite as we saw them this time.

There was no wind from Salisbury to Pewsey, it was calm, and a perfect summer morning, the earth and the sky at their best, and we too at our best also. Not an ache or a pain or a distracting thought, but capable and ready to take in all the beautiful scenery, while propelling ourselves along over perfect roads. From start to finish the roads were excellent. We had not a mishap or an unpleasant moment all the way round. Our expenses for the time was under 10/-, not an extravagant amount for two days outing. The machines acted perfectly all the way, and required not a moment’s attention. We found ginger ale a much better drink than alcoholic liquer.

Wednesday June 9

Bitterly cold and dull. How different from Sunday and Monday. Yesterday, too, was a most uncanny day.

Friday June 11

Had a good many orders and busy all day.

Sunday June 13

Anniversary of the Sunday School. Rev Forbes Jackson preached. Did not think much of him. Henry and I, after tea, went to Burchett’s Green and nearly to Marlow, and came home up the hill where James Knight came off coming down twenty years ago, and this is the first time I have been along it since. It was a pretty evening and we had a pretty little ride of 25 miles. Came home via Waltham and Billingbear.

Monday June 14

Willie Neave came down for a fortnight’s holiday, and I intend taking him the Southampton and Portsmouth ride this week, so although it was a very good day for cycling, I only went round Hurst in the evening, which was a pleasant little ride.

8 miles

Tuesday June 15

Was just the kind of day for our journey, but as Willie only came here yesterday, I thought it unwise to go today for a long ride like Southampton, so we arranged for tomorrow, if fine, but…

Wednesday June 16

…would not do, for at 4 o’clock there was strong NE wind on, and heavy clouds rolling up, so after inspecting the weather, I turned back into bed again and put the job off for tomorrow, but…

Thursday June 17

…was no better, and so I did not go to Southampton but the Eversley journey instead, and got home early, and saw the train arrive in from Ascot races and also held myself ready for to go to Southampton tomorrow, but…

Friday June 18

…would not do. Still dull and windy.

Saturday June 19

Should have gone today, but the morning was worse, and the day turned out wet.

Sunday June 20

Today we set apart for special services and thanksgiving for the Queen and for the blessing of the longest reign on record. I went to Chapel morning and evening, and glad I am I went, for we had two excellent services entirely devoted to the occasion. That in the morning was upon the Queen, a beautiful discourse. The singing, the prayers and the preaching was entirely given up to it. The choir sang an anthem composed for the occasion, and did it well, and the hymns were natural, and wound up with God Save the Queen, and Mr Cave surpassed himself with a discourse upon the record blessings and advancements of a record reign. I, and so did a good many more, thoroughly enjoyed these two unique services, and I spent a happy day.

Monday June 21

Although the weather was right I could not think of going the Southampton ride today, for I had to get the goods ready for the journey, which Terry had to do this afternoon instead of tomorrow. I had a full day’s work and a pleasant one too. Henry and Tom were engaged in decorating the house ready for tomorrow, and they made a very pretty job of it. The town was all alive with putting up decorations and getting ready for the ox roasting. Miss Sparvell’s bicycle came Saturday, and this evening after 8, Tom rode it over, and I went with him on my bicycle. Tom did not go into Sparvell’s, but left me to take it in while he walked back. They were highly delighted with it and very grateful for me getting it and bringing it over. It was a beautiful evening, and Tom quite enjoyed his walk home, and I certainly did my ride.

When I got back, the town was all alive waiting for the ox to be brought out and roasted. I went home and had a bit of supper, and then we all came up in town, but were just too late to see the ox brought to the spit by a torch light procession, but we had a good view of it being roasted before an enormous fire. The fire place was built last week just in front of the Police Station gates. There was a great quantity of people about and the band playing and the town gaily decorated. We stayed until near upon 12 o’clock, and then wended our way home to bed and to sleep. Many people stayed up all night and the town was like day all the time, so that Henry could not get to sleep, and at 4 o’clock, got up and went into the sitting room and lay down there and had a short sleep. We stayed until past 11 o’clock and then went home to bed and to sleep.

12 miles

Tuesday June 22 – The Great Diamond Jubilee Day

The day began well, warm and calm, with just sufficient haze to veil the sun, and that cleared off by 12 o’clock, and then the sun came out hot and bright. It was a splendid day for the Great Procession in London, which passed off without a hitch. We had a very happy day. Went up in town in the morning and saw the ox cut up. Had dinner at home, and a rest after, then up to the shop for tea and the rest of the day. There were several visitors up to the top of the house, including Geo Chandler and all his family. We watched the people in the Market Place. There was a singing competition going on and a great crowd of people to witness it. At 10 o’clock we went to the top of the house and saw the various bonfires, which were all lit up at 10. We saw a great many. Came home between 11 and 12 o’clock, very pleased with the day’s demonstration. I took a dose of sleeping mixture and went off to sleep directly I got to bed.

Wednesday June 23

Bertha got up at ¼ to 4 and woke me soon after, and I got up quite fresh and well, feeling none the worse for my short night’s rest, for what I did have was sound, not waking from the time I got into bed until Bertha woke me. Directly I was down I went round and called Willie Neave, who was already up and cleaning his boots. Bertha got us a rattling good breakfast, which went down well. The morning was all we could wish it, calm, bright and sunny, and every prospect of being a glorious day, and so it turned out to be.

We started at 5.35 in excellent spirits and good health, and rattled along at a respectable pace, for we had soon passed through Basingstoke, via Hartley Row. At Basingstoke, the streets were lined on either side with tables, where I suppose the people had dinner or tea yesterday. A very nice ride brought us to Winchester at ½ past 8, which was our first dismount, for we intended to have a liquer up. Passed on to St Cross instead, and there at the little inn where I had breakfast last time, we drew up and also rivetted up Mr Neave’s bicycle crank, which had worked loose.

Another very nice little spin brought us to Southampton at 10.10. Had it not been for the time occupied in fixing the pedal, we should have been in quite by 10 o’clock. Had a glass of cider each, and a sit down on the seat overlooking the bay. There I did a brush up, and put myself tidy. We then went back to the pub and had a pint more cider, and then on board the boat for Cowes, Ryde and Southsea. The fare was 2/6 each and a shilling each for the bicycle. Had a beautiful sea voyage and landed at Southsea at 2 o’clock. The Fleet is anchored off Southsea ready for the Review on Saturday. The mightiest collection of war vessels ever massed together, and we had a good view of them, for our boat passed down a part of the line.

We at once made for Sandport for dinner, but first I took Mr Neave’s bicycle into Buck’s near the Town Hall to have the pedal fixed. We went to the Alliance Temperance Hotel, and had an excellent dinner, good and cheap, also a wash and brush up. Back to Southsea, and a dip in the briny ocean, after which we lay down on the beach and watched the vessels until we fell off to sleep. When we awoke, it was time to see about tea, which we did at the same place as dinner, very good and very cheap again. We now went to Buck’s and got the bicycle. They put a fresh nut and made a good job of the treadle for 9d. We were just in time for the ferry. It was a nice little ride across and we wished it had been further. We left Gosport at 5.35 with the wind for us, but that dropped to a calm soon after Farnham. It was a glorious evening, and the road perfect, and we bowled along very merrily. It is needless to say we enjoyed the ride, for everything conspired to make it enjoyable. Our first stop was at Corhampton, where we had a drink from the beautiful stream. How Willie enjoyed the draught of pure water was pleasing to behold. After more miles of beautiful scenery and lovely riding, we came to the ‘George’ at the foot of Filmore Hill and there had some refreshments, after which it was not long before we got to the top of the hill, and then away over eight miles of downhill to Alton. We stopped not at Alton but rode right on to the Golden Pot, where we had our final drink, which carried us home, where we arrived at 10.55. I reckoned to get home at 11.10.

It was almost a perfect day for our trip, and everything went well, and we had not an unpleasant half hour. Mr Neave said he never enjoyed a day out like it. The Solent was very busy with pleasure steamers carrying passengers up and down the line of the Fleet. I was not so struck with the appearance of the war vessels. They look not half so imposing as the old wooden ships, for they are nearly all under water. Should like to see them all illuminated on Saturday night, but as I cannot do that, I must content myself with today’s inspection.

The cyclometer registered 107 miles, but I should think four of these were ridden in Portsmouth and Southsea. Our times were as under:

Left Wokingham	5.35 a.m.
Left Basingstoke	7.00 a.m.
Arrived Winchester	8.30 a.m.
Arrived Southampton	10.10 a.m.
Left Gosport	5.35 p.m.
Arrived Wokingham	10.55 p.m.

107 miles

Thursday June 24

Was up as usual and went the journey. It was a very close and sultry day, and nearly all were overcome with the heat. Though I felt it, I got on remarkably well. When I got to Bond’s, the thunder, which had been hanging about all day, came up and was very vivid all round. I quite expected to be caught in a violent storm, and should have been had I got home half an hour earlier. As it was, I just escaped it. They had such a hail storm at Wokingham as has not been known for 40 years. It devastated part of Essex, and was very severe in other places. Two houses were slightly struck at Wokingham.

Friday June 25

Redgie Barkshire came down this morning on the bicycle, a 92 inch gear. At ½ past 7, Frances and I and Redgie and Willie went to Eversley and thence round Bramshill Park. A very pretty and enjoyable run. Both Willie and Redgie were delighted with the ride. I had to call at several places, amongst which was Lady Glass’. Mrs Fickers gave Frances some milk and me a drop of something stronger. We were just in time to see the end of the Finchampstead Jubilee Tea and Sports.

15 miles

Saturday June 26

At 9 o’clock, Willie, Neave, Redgie and I went on our bicycles to see the fireworks at Reading. We called in at 3 Wykeham Road, where were Bertha, Frances and Hilda. We then walked to the park and saw them well. Bertha, Frances and Hilda came home by train. We had a nice little ride home.

10 miles

Sunday June 27

A very wet morning. Mr Colyer came down in the evening and after a bit of supper, he and Redgie left for London. Willie Neave also left, having been with us a good deal during the two weeks of his holiday.

Monday June 28

Lillie’s bicycle came on Saturday, and today I put it in going order.

Tuesday June 29

Frances and I took a ride on the bicycles, leaving here at ¼ past 7. We went to Burchett’s Green the old way, and on to within a mile of Marlow, then turned up the long hill leading to Maidenhead thicket and away home by Shottesbrook, Waltham etc, arriving home at ¼ to 10. It was a lovely ride round.

What a magnificent sunset we saw from the hill on the Maidenhead road. As we stood there looking over the valley of the Thames, away on the horizon was a solid castle of cloud and the sun lighting up the line of battlements from tower to tower with a long line of golden fire. All the way home we had grand cloud effects and altogether a most pleasant ride of 17 miles.

17 miles

Wednesday June 30

Was going on the canal but the weather came over bad in the afternoon, with thunder and storms about. Frances and I, at 8 o’clock, went to Easthampstead and South Hill, and intended going home by the Nine Mile Ride, but the road was so bad we turned off it for the Bagshot road and found it worse that way. There has been a heavy rain beyond Easthampstead this evening, and the roads were mushy. We had to walk all the Nine Mile Ride part.

14 miles

1897

Friday July 2

Went round Hurst after shop hours with Frances, a nice little ride of 14 miles.

Sunday July 4

Redgie and his friend Colyer came down yesterday evening. A windy day. I went to Chapel and L.S. in the morning. After tea, I tried the 92 inch gear round Hurst and liked it. The boys started home after supper at ¼ past 9. Redgie wanting to avoid the hill and go to Bath road, I took them to Maidenhead thicket and so on to the road via Waltham and Shottesbrook. I left them there and came home the new way. A nice ride both ways. I got home at ¼ to 11.

20 miles

Monday July 5

Bertha, Frances and Hilda went by the excursion to Brighton and had a very nice time. They came home by ½ past 9 and very much enjoyed both the ride there and back. They and Mr Allen had a compartment to themselves both ways. Mr Allen promised to send Hilda a dog.

Wednesday July 7

Henry, Frances and I went to Odiham after tea and had a splendid time. The morning part of the day did not promise at all well, but the afternoon and evening turned out splendid. Leaving here about ¼ to 5, we were on the water by 6 o’clock. Frances and Henry had a boat and I a canoe, and we thus paddled to Dogmersfield, then Henry towed the boat half way back, when he and I changed places. We had a very pleasant ride home, arriving at 10 o’clock. As I say, it was a most pleasant and enjoyable little trip, and thoroughly enjoyed we each.

25 miles

Sunday July 11

To Chapel in the morning and for a little ride with Henry to Yateley and along the Flats to Fleet and Star Hill home, a pretty little jog around. On Friday, Mr Allen sent Hilda a little fox terrier, which pleased her much.

27 miles

Monday July 12

After a sleepless night, we turned out at 4 o’clock to get ready for the excursion to Hastings, which was due at 5.40. We all went, and Mr Foot put us in a second class carriage. Allie Laird and Mr Metcalf went down with us and made the journey cheerful. The weather was dull and windy, but about 11 o’clock the sun came out and from then to 7, was bright. I went out on the yacht. We met Miss Woods and Margaret on the Pier in the afternoon and we all had tea together at the Southern Counties Creamery, cheap and good. I had dinner at 210 Queen Street. We had the same carriage to ourselves coming home and a pleasant ride, reaching Wokingham at 11.30. Tom went to Margate by the train before us. I did not like it at the seaside, and was glad to get home.

Wednesday July 13

Frances and I went to Odiham after tea, and took a canoe each and paddled up the canal and back and had a very pleasant time. She very much enjoyed canoeing. It was a beautiful evening and a splendid ride on the bicycle each way. This is the first time Frances has been in a canoe and she handled it well. Henry went with Kemp the usual walk yesterday, and so did not go out today.

25 miles

Friday July 16

Had a good lot of orders, which I got up very well. At ½ past 7, Philip Sale and I went to Henley on our bicycles to see the illuminations and fireworks. Had a very enjoyable ride over, the roads being quite as good as I expected to find them after the blazing hot week we have had, and the traffic. We put the machines up at a cottage, and walked into the meadow by the riverside. It was a perfect evening and everything looked very pretty. It had been a record week for Henley. There was a grand display of fireworks, and after they were over, we made a move for home, leaving Henley a little after 10 o’clock. We met James Ewen and Mr Lowe in the grounds and we all came home together, and had a thoroughly enjoyable ride home. Leaving as we did early, we avoided the worst of the road traffic. Got home at ½ past 11 well satisfied with the evening out.

20 miles

Saturday July 17

Matilda Porter, who went to Hartley Row on Thursday for a month’s visit, died in her sleep this morning, so on the receipt of the news, Henry went over to Hartley Row to arrange things, he being an executor. Redgie came to us from Trowbridge and Allie from London. Went to Bearswood on the bicycle.

8 miles

Sunday July 18

A beautiful hot calm day. I went round Yateley and the Flats to Fleet and hence by Elvetham and Star Hill on Redgie’s bicycle geared to 92. The gear is too high for me, as it is unrideable up Star Hill etc and requires too much pressure all the way. I did the three miles on the Flats in exactly 9 minutes. Along a piece like that, it scores a point. I enjoyed my run round and got home in time for dinner at 1 o’clock. After tea, I and Redgie went for a ride over somewhat the same ground as this morning. This time I had Mr Colyer’s bicycle, a nice little thing geared to 71½. I liked the go of it better than any I have tried.

50 miles

Tuesday July 20

Aunt Matilda was buried at our Chapel this afternoon.

Wednesday July 21

Rained in the afternoon, and looked very threatening in the evening. However, Frances and I had a very nice little ride to Yateley and along the Flats to Star Hill, and then back to Blackwater and home by the Colleges. The weather cleared and it was a very pretty evening.

22 miles

Thursday July 22

Did the journey as usual, and felt very well indeed, but…

Friday July 23

…about 1 o’clock I woke with a pain in my chest, and it continued and increased, and was very bad. About 8 o’clock, I tried a little whisky, but was sick directly. Then I had some castor oil, but that did not move the pain. I could not get up, so we sent for Dr Wood, but he did not come until past 2 o’clock. About 3, I was sick again for the sixth time and then I had relief from pain. During my sickness, I brought up nothing but bile. Mr Terry got on well with the orders. Unfortunately, I left them as I seldom do, not having entered up the cash or arranged the orders overnight.

Saturday July 24

I was in bed all day but free from pain.

Sunday July 25

I got up after tea but did not go downstairs. During the night, I was worse.

Monday July 26

Did not get up today.

Tuesday July 27

Was better and got up and did the booking.

Wednesday July 28

Was up all day and went up to the shop, but did not do much.

Thursday July 29

Mr Terry went the journey.

1897

Sunday August 1

Went to morning service. Mr Colyer came down to tea, and Willie Neave came yesterday. After tea, Henry and I went for a ride, and Willie Neave came with us. I went on Mr Colyer’s bicycle, and again liked it very much. We went to Eversley and Yateley and along the Flats to Fleet and home via Elvetham. We went along the Flats over 20 miles the hour. It was a beautiful ride and much enjoyed. It looked like, and was, summer.

26 miles

Monday August 2 – Bank Holiday

A beautiful fine, hot and almost calm day. Henry and I went on our bicycles to Dorking via the Hog’s Back and Guildford, and home by Box Hill, Leatherhead, Chobham etc. We did not start until near upon 10 o’clock, and the weather then was blazing hot. However, it was very pleasant riding, and we went along very comfortably. The corn fields look lovely, never seen them better. Some are cut, but most uncut. The corn is so golden this year. I was glad to get round and see the harvest. The Hog’s Back was in perfect condition. In fact, the roads all the way round were in very good order, vastly deal better than I expected to find them after all the dry and hot time. Even by Chobham and Woking, they were good. We had dinner at Shere, at a Public House up the road to the right, and at the foot of Gomshall Hill. We sat outside and had our repast. After leaving here, we went a little further on to a spot beyond Abinger, and there lay down by the stream. It was the same spot were Frances and I rested last August Bank Holiday afternoon. We must have spent quite an hour here and then went on to Dorking, getting there at ¼ past 4. Put up at the same place as last year and had a good and cheap tea. We left Dorking about 5 o’clock and had a lovely ride home. At Chobham we called in at an Inn at the cross roads and had a drink and sat down in the pretty little garden by the side of the house. We got home just before light up time, having had a pleasant day out. The weather has been terrifically hot, and a nice bright day all day – no thought of wet. It was 34 miles going to Dorking and 36 home, making 70 miles.

Wednesday August 4

Frances and I went for a lovely little ride this evening. We left about 6 o’clock and went to Bracknell, Bagshot, Sunningdale, Virginia Water, Winkfield, and about to Bracknell, Easthampstead and home. The roads were good, it was a lovely summer’s evening, calm and warm, and a very happy and enjoyable ride we had, coming home cooler and fresher than when we went out.

26 miles

Thursday August 5

Sent Davis with the cart while I did the journey on the bicycle.

Sunday August 8

The weather was too unsettled to venture out. I stayed at home all day and put Frances’ machine in thorough going order. In the afternoon, Willie Neave came in and I put his machine right for him, so that these two jobs occupied nearly all day. We had a very heavy rain from 10 to 11 this morning.

Wednesday August 11

I intended taking Frances to Southampton and Portsmouth today, but the weather would not do. Could not go for a ride in the evening because of a thunderstorm, so stayed at home and did nothing.

Thursday August 12

The cart having to be retired, Davis did the journey and got home in time for that to be done. I went round on the bicycle and got home to tea. Today has been a very nice day, and so I got the bacon cut for tomorrow’s orders, so that, should the morning be right, I could go to Southampton with Frances.

Friday August 13

Had a good night and slept well until Bertha called me at ¼ to 4. I looked out and the morning looked more promising than any for a long time past, so got up in good spirits. We had breakfast comfortably and quietly got ready and at exactly ½ past 5, Frances and I mounted our bicycles for Southampton. We had a very pleasant ride to Basingstoke via Hartley Row, which we should have reached in time but for the broken up roads a mile this side of the town. As it was, we were nearly 10 minutes late – 7.10. By the time we had got the other side of Basingstoke, the wind had come up strong and the sky being overcast, and the further we went the worse it got until at Popham Lanes, it began to rain, so we turned back, and in a very short time, we had to take shelter under the trees until the rain somewhat abated. When we turned back we had got exactly half way to Southampton, 25 miles. We were very pleased to think we had turned back, for it would have been miserable going on. As it was we got quite wet before we reached home. Although it rained coming home, we quite enjoyed the ride and came along at a rattling good pace. We came home via Sherfield, and with the exception of the rise out of Basingstoke and the [illegible word] because of the bad road, we did not push anywhere, and with the several stops for shelter, we had got home at ½ past 10 having done the 50 miles in exactly five hours, so we must have travelled quite 12 miles the hour. On getting home, we had another good breakfast and then I went to business for the rest of the day.

50 miles

Sunday August 15

Mr Colyer came down on his bicycle last night. I went to Chapel this morning and intended going out for a ride this evening on Mr Colyer’s bicycle, but just before 10. I was taken bad again with the stone in the gall and had to go to bed and have the doctor.

Sunday August 22

Have had a very painful week, but am better now. Mr Colyer left his bicycle here last Sunday and went home by train. He thought perhaps I might be able to have a go out on it, but alas! I have not been out of bed all the week.

Wednesday August 25

Got up today and after dinner we – Bertha, Frances, Hilda and Eva and the baby (who is here on a visit from Kettering) – had a drive round Hurst in Mr Price’s carriage. It was a beautiful afternoon and we had a very pleasant and enjoyable ride. This is about the only good weather we have had for the last month fit for cycling.

Friday August 27

Went to the shop and helped with the orders. After tea, we had Price’s trap again and went for a drive round Eversley. Pleasant but very windy.

Sunday August 29

Mr Scorey preached today. They say he was very good in the morning, but I heard him in the evening very indifferently. Another rough windy day.

1897

Friday September 3

Having got on well with the orders, I had a nice little run after tea on the bicycle round Hurst. Frances went also. It was a lovely evening, one of the kind we get dropped in among a long spell of bad. We were only out about ¾ of an hour.

8 miles

Sunday September 5

A very wet, windy, rough cold day, so much so I preferred laying in bed all day to getting up and being miserable. I quite enjoyed the day in bed.

Monday September 6

I repaired the trolley and put new wheels to it. After tea I went the Hurst run and enjoyed it. The roads soon dried up. Here was another hour or two of fine weather and calm dropped in amongst the tempestuous weather of the last month.

8 miles

Tuesday September 7

By far the best day we have had for the last two months. Henry and Kemp went their usual walk round Puttenham etc and had a splendid time. I had a nice day in the shop, and after tea, I went on the bicycle to meet Frances, who has been to Earley. Met her just beyond the station, and we then went around the lanes of Woodley etc. and came home via Sandford Mill. I left the St Paul’s Schools at 6.50 and passed them coming home at 7.10, and had been just 16 miles, so that with stoppages, and we had several, we did 12 miles the hour. It was a pleasant little evening ride. The roads as now in excellent order everywhere, and should we get good weather, there is a prospect of some nice rides.

16 miles

Wednesday September 8

The day began well, very pretty and fine, so we arranged for a run to Farnham for the afternoon. Henry, Frances and I, but when I called on Tom for his machine, he was going out too, so I could not well have it. Under the circumstances, Frances could not go. We had an early tea and started off at ½ past 3, but the weather now was overcast, and by the time we reached the Flats, it spat a little with rain. However, we kept on. At Crookham we came across the pickers in the garden opposite the Post Office. They were a very respectable lot, and looked very pretty and picturesque. We found the shop at Crondall, lately carried on by Brooker, now taken by James Oakley of Fleet. Brooker failed. We took it steady by the hop fields so as to have a good view of them. We stayed not at Farnham, for it had begun to spit of rain pretty freely, and by the time we reached Fleet, it rained quite fast enough to make us hurry on. There was not enough rain to wet us much, for my coat was not half so wet as my shirt. In spite of the gloomy weather we thoroughly enjoyed our run. Last year we went round on Monday September 9. We like to keep up the [illegible word] by an annual inspection of the hop gardens.

17 miles there, 16½ back = 34 miles

Friday September 10

After tea, I went the usual Hurst run. Met Carrie at the paper mills and she turned back and came with me.

8 miles

Sunday September 12

A beautiful autumn day. I did a little gardening in the morning, and after an early tea at the shop, Henry and I went the Mortimer and Bramley ride. It was a splendid evening, and the roads in perfect order all the way round. The country all along was very beautiful, and altogether we had a splendid time – one of the many pretty evening runs we have had. All along by Swallowfield and Barkham was particularly lovely.

40 miles

Monday September 13

Tom, Frances and I went for a ride this evening, but the weather was not so good as last night, being sunless and thick. We started at ½ past 5 and went to Bracknell and Bagshot, Sunningdale, Virginia Water, Sunninghill, Ascot, Bracknell and home. Though the weather was so dull, we were not, for we had a very enjoyable little spin. One thing, the roads were good, and the weather calm.

24 miles

Wednesday September 15

Mr Terry started this morning for his holidays and a beautiful morning he has got too for his ride. He intended leaving early, about 5 o’clock, for he is going to Lydd on the bicycle, and that is a long journey. However, he did not start much before 8 o’clock. Henry and Tom arranged for a run to Selborne, and they too have got a splendid day. They started at ½ past 9 and enjoyed the day out. At ½ past 2, I started off to meet them coming home. I went on Mr Colyer’s machine. He came down yesterday to stay the week with us. The bicycle went so well that I was tempted to put it along quicker than I ought to have, and got very hot and perspired profusely. I only made one stop going to Alton, which was at Odiham for a drink. I got to Alton in 1 hour 35 minutes. In my present state of health, the pace was too much for me, and brought on a renewal of my late trouble. I felt it coming on while I was at tea at Alton. After tea, I went on and met Tom and Henry a little way down the Selborne road. Had it not been for the rain coming, or worse, I should have enjoyed the ride home with them. As it was, I did not, and was glad to get home. I had a wash and went to bed, and had hot fermentations, but alas a terrible bad night, and when the morning came, it was as much as I could do to get up and walk up to the shop.

48 miles

Thursday September 16

After a most painful night, I just managed to get up and go to the shop and send Davis off with the Eversley orders. I then went home, and back to bed and sent Frances round for the orders.

Wednesday September 22

This is my first day out again. Henry has had to do all the work at the shop, doing the work both for the home and the journey trade. He said fortunately the home trade was very quiet on Friday, which gave him the opportunity to put up all the Eversley orders. As I say, he has been single handed all the week, and has got through it A1.

Thursday September 23

I sent Davis and Sidney the journey. Sidney came yesterday. They got home in very good time and got all the tickets ready for tomorrow.

Friday September 24

Mr Terry came home this morning, having had a good time for his holidays.

Sunday September 26

A very nice day indeed, but a strong breeze from the SW. I did a little in the garden and went for a ride to Knowl Hill and went on Mr Colyer’s bicycle. After tea, I went on Frances’ to the Horse and Groom, Littlewick, and home via Waltham. A very pretty ride.

38 miles

Monday September 27

Mr Colyer went back this evening to London. I had a nice little run after tea round Hurst.

8 miles

Tuesday September 28

The weather this week is good, as good as we have had all the summer. I went round Hurst after tea.

8 miles

Wednesday September 29

I was going for a ride to Guildford this afternoon but just as I was about to start, it commenced to rain a little, so I turned into the garden and did a little work there. Bertha and Hilda went to New Mill, in a trap with Mr and Mrs Herington. There was a tea meeting there. About 6 o’clock we had a very heavy rain with thunder. It cleared off by the time they left New Mill.

Thursday September 30

I did the journey for the first time since my illness, Had a very good day round and got home in good condition. Sidney went home.

1897

Friday October 1

A very nice day. Went for a run round Hurst after tea, which I enjoyed. Had some nice blackberries.

Saturday October 2

Annie and Don came up this afternoon to stay a week with us.

Sunday October 3

Went to Chapel in the morning and for a ride after tea to Marlow and Henley, a run I quite enjoyed. There was a considerable amount of wind stirring, but it did not trouble me, for I was in no hurry, and I jogged along comfortably at 11 miles the hour. I saw some pretty sights. Going up Marlow hill, I met some tramps and they remarked on the beauty of the scenery.

32 miles

Monday October 4

Round Hurst again after tea. Got on well with my booking today.

8 miles

Tuesday October 5

After getting the journey off, I put the little warehouse a bit tidy, for it badly wanted it. It was a beautiful day and so I took the opportunity of going for a run. I left here at 3 o’clock for Guildford and went via Bracknell and Bagshot. It was bright and sunny, but there was a decided breeze from the East which was against me to Bracknell and not for me to Guildford. It was a beautiful afternoon, and I enjoyed the ride, but not so much as I ought to have, and I kept chiding myself for not being merrier. I had tea at Guildford, which worked wonders, and I just did enjoy myself after that. I took a walk up the High Street, and as I turned round to come down, the view was grand. It was ½ past 5, and the sinking sun was just hid by the Hog’s Back, and the sky above was all afire.

I came home via the Hog’s Back, which I rode up comfortably. Before going up I bought a couple of cigarettes, which I much enjoyed. The road was in perfect order, and I could have bowled along at any pace, but I would not hurry, for it was such a delightful evening, and I meant to enjoy it, so I jogged along at 12 miles the hour, and I saw such a sight as well repaid me. The evening was clear, that is clear for October, and as the sun went down, the moon shone brighter and brighter, and I saw the lovely part of the country out Hindhead way under the most enchanting and lovely conditions. It was sublime. Then again, that pretty little piece beyond Ash, and the prospect from the hill as I descended to the canal, was grand, beautifully grand. Had it not been for the road from the Aldershot road to Hawley being gravelled, I should not have got off all the way home, except to light the lamps at Ash. From Ash, it was starlight and bright moonlight. I haven’t enjoyed a ride more than this for a very long time, and I was very pleased I made up my mind to go today. It wants some resolution to start in the afternoon, but I had it, and received the rewards.

If I had had a little more time, I should have gathered some blackberries going over, but I left them, and did not dismount between Wokingham and Guildford. It is 20½ miles there and 23½ back by the Hog’s Back and Hawley. I carefully measured it this time. I left here at 3.7 and at Guildford at 4.48. Left at 5.30. Home at 7.35. The distance round was 44 miles.

Wednesday October 6

Henry and Millie held their Silver Wedding Anniversary with a party this evening. I had a run round Hurst etc and did a little blackberrying. Went to the party at the shop at 6 o’clock and was there until 11.15. A nice little party and not kept up too long.

10 miles

Thursday October 7

Was a beautiful day and I got home from the journey at 7.30 and went to Ginnett’s Circus. It was very poor again, but not quite so bad as when it was here ten years ago.

Sunday October 10

To Chapel for the morning. After tea round Hurst and a pleasant evening at home by myself.

Monday October 11

After dinner, Frances and I essayed to go to Guildford. We left home rather late, 3.30, and made our way to Frimley. It was a nice afternoon and we bowled along very comfortably until some way past Ash Vale station, when Frances had a puncture, which put a stop to Guildford for today. As I was trying to take off the tyre, a lady passed by in a trap, and then turned back to see if we had the necessary repair outfit. I thanked her and told her I had, but the difficulty would be to find the puncture, so she asked me to bring the bicycle to her house, which was close at hand. This I did, and she brought me a bowl of water to put the talc in, and called her husband to help me. While we were doing this, she took Frances indoors. I repaired two other punctures, and put the cover on twice, but there was still another, and that I did not feel inclined to mess about with, but determined to send Frances and the machine home by rail. After I had done, Mr Lawrence (for that was the name of the gentleman of the house) asked me in to tea, and while it was getting ready, took me round his garden and orchard, and into his studio (for he was an artist) and after showing me the pictures, tea was ready, so we sat down in a very nice room and had it, and had a pleasant conversation, and a very jovial time. We left a little after 6 o’clock, after thanking them for their hospitality, and made our way to N. Camp station. After seeing Frances off, I came home by the same way I came, and had a pretty moonlight ride home. Frances was quite pleased with her first puncture out, and would not fear another if it brought about such a little romance with it.

28 miles

Tuesday October 12

Frances, Don and I went to Reading to see The Sign of the Cross, which is on this week there.

Wednesday October 13

Henry Soper (who came by last night), Frances and Don, and Millie, Norah and her friend from Margate, Miss Bridgewick, also Mrs Hartley and Mr Newercock went by the 9.25 to Ash and for the [illegible words] walk. They had a very good day and all enjoyed themselves very much. I, Bertha, Frances, Don and Laurie went to the Wesleyan meeting. I gave the Black Job and Frances sang.

Thursday October 14

Sent Davis with the goods. I went round on the bicycle and had a very good day. William Townsend died yesterday. Was taken in a fit about 12 o’clock and died in the evening. A sad loss for Eversley.

20 miles

Sunday October 17

John, Norah and Miss Bridgewick went back to Margate yesterday. Today was a very nice day so far as the weather, very mild and fine, but with a strong SW wind. We went to Chapel for the morning. At 3, I started for Guildford, but did not expect to get there because of the strong wind. However, I found but little hindrance from it, and got along very much better than I expected. I went via Easthampstead Church and Bagshot, and the distance to the Coffee Tavern was just 20 miles, a ½ mile nearer than through Bracknell.

I quite enjoyed the afternoon’s ride, for the sky was very pretty and so also was the foliage with its autumn tints. Had tea and eggs at the old shop, and then at 20 past 5, I started for home via the Hog’s Back, so I just caught the setting sun. It was very wild up on the Back, the wind howled in the trees and sighed in the telegraph wires, and the country looked very wild in the semi-darkness. The wind was at my left along the Back, and when I turned off for Ash at my back, and I could have come along at a great pace, but it was dark now, and required caution all the way home, which I reached safely at ½ past 7, having had another very pleasant and happy run to Guildford and back.

I had a change directly I got home and felt nothing of the journey. Earnest Walden was waiting for me. We had a short time together, for he left to catch the 8.30 to Newbury. Willie Neave just looked in at supper time. The distance to Guildford via Easthampstead is just 20 miles and home via Frimley 22½, so that is just a mile nearer than via Eversley.

43 miles

Monday October 18

I went on the bicycle to Eversley this afternoon to attend Mr Townsend’s funeral, which was at 3 o’clock. I got back by ½ past 4. Met John Langdon by the brook, and he turned back and had tea with us. Bertha, Hilda and Louisa went to Reading this morning. Last night there was a fire at Matthew Green’s farm and the house burnt down.

14 miles

Tuesday October 19

After dinner, I put up two shelves in the little warehouse for the small bags of [illegible word] meal etc. Don and Annie went to Hounslow to stay the week with the Eatons.

Wednesday October 20

Was at work in the warehouse all the morning. In the shop we were busy as usual on Wednesday morning. At 3 o’clock we were to have left for a run, but just as I got to the shop door, I found the tyre of Frances’ machine was faulty, so I borrowed Tom’s and then Henry and I had a beautiful little ride to Bagshot, Sunningdale and by the road skirting Windsor Park to Winkfield and home through Bracknell and Easthampstead. It was a nice sunny afternoon, and the roads were very good. The foliage looked lovely in the bright sunlight. We got home just in time to have tea and then see the procession of cyclists and masquerades. It was a very good turn out.

24 miles

Thursday October 21

I did the round and got round very well.

Sunday October 24

Went to Chapel for the morning service and heard Mr Cave preach well. Had a run round Hurst after tea, and then to Chapel again.

8 miles

Monday October 25

Finished the little warehouse and made a good job of it.

Tuesday October 26

Got off a lot of empties for Beaufoy etc.

Wednesday October 27

Annie and Don came back from Hounslow yesterday. I took up the geraniums. Went for a ride round Hurst. The roads were muddy from the rain last Friday. Mr East brought a magpie for me.

8 miles

Thursday October 28

Sent Davis with the cart and goods to Eversley. I went round on the bicycle. It was very foggy up to 11 o’clock, and the roads were very muddy and wet. Coming home, the fog was so thick I could hardly see my way, nevertheless I enjoyed my day out.

20 miles

Friday October 29

Annie and Don went home by the 2.30. It is a beautiful day for their journey.

Sunday October 31

The morning was very foggy or I should have gone for a run directly after breakfast. As it was, I had to wait until past 11 o’clock, and as the time before dinner was short, I cut the run short and went to Knowl Hill and Littlewick, and home by Waltham. It was very pretty, but too much fog about for distant views. I enjoyed the run very much, and should have done more so, but that I had a slight headache. I saw the caravans coming in to our Fair from Marlow. The roads mostly were damp and heavy this way. In places, they were very good, others, as I say, heavy. Although the roads are covered with leaves, the oaks and elms seem as full of leaf as in the summer.

20 miles

1897

Monday November 1

Municipal Election. Mr Evans took the place of Headington.

Tuesday November 2

A splendid day for the Fair. It was a very large one made up principally of roundabouts. I went down in the evening, and went on the Switch-Back and into one of the shows, which was very good.

Wednesday November 3

Was like the previous day, and I should have gone for a ride this afternoon, but had no machine to go on. As Henry and Tom are both going, I had the afternoon in the garden and put a new wood border to the path by the laurels, and Davis dug the ground up.

Thursday November 4

I did the journey on the bicycle. It was not such a splendid day as yesterday, but still it was very pleasant. I got over the ground in good time, so I called in at Mr Sparvell’s and had tea, and a chat, and then off to Frimley and Hartley Row, and saw several show vans there ready for tomorrow. Then along the Flats for a couple of miles and back to Eversley and home. It was moonlight and very pleasant and I enjoyed the run round. Frances went to Trowbridge.

34 miles

Sunday November 7

The past week has been a magnificent week for weather, and I made up my mind if it continued fine for today to have a good bicycle ride. The morning was a bit misty, but it soon cleared off, and then at ½ past 10, I sallied forth, and went to Barkham, Arborfield, Swallowfield to the Monument, and then a little further on and to the left and by the lanes to the top of Heckfield hill. I came home by New Mill and N.M. Ride. It was a beautiful morning out, bright and sunny, and the road white and hard. The sunlight in the foliage was very grand and pretty, and many nice sights I saw, and came home pleased with my little outing.

When I got home, I found Mr Colyer there. After dinner, I went up to see if Henry was going out, but he was in bed having been sick during the night. I had an early cup of tea, and just as I sat down to it, Mr Neave came in. At a ¼ to 5, I went off for another ride to Eversley, Yateley along the Flats and home through Eversley. I thought I should have seen the cattle at the foot of the Flats, being the day before Blackwater Fair, but I saw none, nevertheless I had a nice little run and was home just before Bertha went to Chapel.

We, Mr Colyer, Neave and I, had a talk and then a bit of supper, and at ½ past 7 I took them on the way to London, via Bagshot. There we parted and I came on for home via Camberley, Blackwater and had 3d whisky, and ditto at Finchampstead. This was a beautiful evening ride, and I very much enjoyed it, especially coming home by myself. I was just in time with my ride, for at Eversley, it commenced to rain, not enough to make me wet, but still, there it was, the breaking up of fine weather. It was full moon, but overcast. I was not in the least tired although I had been 64 miles by the time I reached home for the third time. From the beginning of October until now, has been better weather than we had in the summer. This will be a memorable Sunday, for it is not often in a lifetime one can get such roads and weather on the 7^th of November.

64 miles

Monday November 8

Very thick and heavy weather with rain. Yesterday, the roads were hard, white and dry like cement. Today, they are thick in mud and slush. I had to get 2 lbs almonds at Hunt’s at Reading, so after tea at 6 o’clock, I started off on the bicycle through the slush and mud, but when I got half way down the Leith Hill, I turned back because the fog was so thick and a fine rain was falling, but when I got to the railway bridge, I turned back for Reading, and faced it. I could just see the edge of the road through the fog, but above was light, being full moon. As the lamps would not burn, I called in at the Loddon Bridge and there I got a fresh supply of oil which [illegible word] well. The further I went, the thicker the fog. However, there was no traffic along the road to speak of, and I had it almost to myself, both there and back. The bicycle came through the slush and mud very easily, and I quite enjoyed the ride out and home. I had no accident or any approach to one. All through Reading, the people kept religiously to the path. The few minutes I had in Reading I liked very much. I got back at ¼ to 8, and did a lot of work afterwards.

14 miles

Sunday November 14

After dinner, I had a very pleasant ride round Eversley, Yateley and Crowthorne. The roads were very muddy, but as I did not hurry that made very little difference, and I, and the machine, came home cleaner than from a summer ride. It was exceedingly pretty round the Crooked Billet lane.

18 miles

Tuesday November 16

I sent Frances’ bicycle off to her at Trowbridge. Dunlops gave me a new tyre.

Wednesday November 17

I cleared out and whitewashed the pantry.

Sunday November 21

I had a delightful little ride this morning round Elvetham. I went to Hartley Row Old Church, Winchfield Union and so to Elvetham, and very much enjoyed the ride.

24 miles

Wednesday November 24

Tom and I went to the Stanley Show by the 10.40, a 3/6 train, and very much enjoyed the day out.

Sunday November 28

Went to Chapel morning and evening. A very windy day, and cold.

Tuesday November 30

Frances came home from Trowbridge. I cleared and set out the two windows.

1897

Wednesday December 1

Frances and I went to Hartley Row and on to Elvetham and home this afternoon and had a nice little ride. After tea, I came up to the shop and put new springs in the shop door hinges.

21 miles

Friday December 3

Had a run before tea to Finchampstead and back.

Sunday December 5

Went for a ride intending to go to Marlow, but after Stanlake the roads were so muddy, I turned back at Hare Hatch and went to Twyford and Sonning, and then to Earley and called at 3 Wykeham Road and had a few minutes there, and home to dinner via Reading road.

20 miles

Wednesday December 8

I, Willie Walden and Earnest went by the 10.40 to London for the cycle show at the Palace. We got out at Waterloo, and walked to Holborn Viaduct, where I called in at Rudges and Co to see their machines. We then had a cheap dinner, and after that called at London Bridge and caught the 2.8 train to the Palace, which landed us there without a stop. As we did not leave the Palace until ½ past 7, this gave me plenty of time to go round and view the exhibitions and collect the catalogues. We came home via Clapham Junction. I enjoyed the day out, and had a nice time at the Crystal Palace.

Saturday December 25 – Christmas Day

We had a tolerably busy week, and have got through it very well. The weather has been good. Although foggy, it has been frosty and clean, and today, so far as weather is concerned, is the best Xmas Day I have known. There was a hard frost all day and the trees were covered with rime, and the sun shone out at times. The roads were in A1 condition. A little after ten I started for a run going to Barkham, Arborfield and Swallowfield to the Monument, and home by Eversley, and then after dinner, I went to the ridges and Well Coll and home by the Crooked Billet. Although it was such a perfect day for cycling, I only saw one or two riders out. The roads were so good that there was not the slightest reason to push the machine anywhere. We had a pleasant evening by ourselves, and altogether, a capital day. The thing this Xmas will be known by, is its perfect weather. Henry spent most of his time in bed with a swollen face.

30 miles

Sunday December 26

Was a beautiful morning, and I went for a ride to Hartley Row, Pilcot and Fleet before dinner. It was very beautiful out and I enjoyed the ride much. There was skating on some parts of the canal, and at Fleet Park. Just as I started, the sun came out and a little breeze shook the hoar frost off the trees on to me like snow. The roads were hard and frosty and smooth until within a mile of home, where they had just begun to thaw. Before the day was out, the weather turned quite mild and rain set in. There was a fire at East Brook.

25 miles

Monday December 27 – Bank Holiday

Was dark and wet, so I cleaned up part of the lathe, and did a few other jobs, and then a game of Whist in the evening.

Wednesday December 29

Went to Reading and saw Dick Whittington. I enjoyed it well. It was good right throughout. The acrobats were A1.