1898

Saturday January 1

The New Year began with exceptionally fine and mild weather. In fact, we have not had any cold weather, with the exception of the two or three days frost at Xmas, since last winter. I have sent out my fourth annual series of New Year’s cards and find this liked more than any of the previous.

Wednesday January 12

Bertha and I went to Louisa Rainbow’s to a little dinner party and had a pleasant time there.

Thursday January 13

Had a beautiful day for the journey, and I very much enjoyed the ride round.

Saturday January 15

Another beautiful spring like day. We have had a most marvellous time, as yet scarcely a day of winter, for though there was three frosty days Xmas week, it was not severe weather being calm and sunny. This week eclipsed all. The sun has shone bright and warm. There has been no wind and the birds have been singing splendidly. There has been young starlings hatched at Sonning, and I have heard of a nest of blackbirds. It is not as though this was the only mild week, for ever since the cold summer ended, we have had glorious weather right through the autumn and up to now.

I have spent my spare time lately in cleaning and fitting up my large lathe. I am taking pains with it, and as yet, have made a very satisfactory job of what I have done. It is rather a long job, but I enjoy it. My time at home has been employed in looking over the vast quantity of cycle catalogues I brought from the shows, and endeavouring to find in them a suitable mount for the coming season.

Wednesday January 26

I have decided upon a Clyde road racer, and Tom, today, sent off the order. This evening, I packed up Frances’ bicycle frame and parts to be plated and enamelled, and also to have a new gear wheel put to increase the gears.

1898

Sunday February 6

Again, I must remark about the weather, which is truly wonderful. All through the past month, January, we have had beautiful spring like weather. Not a rough or uncomfortable day right through the month. The birds have been singing every day, and all day long, and young thrushes have been hatched and taken. On the 26^th I saw a Small White butterfly flying about at Eversley and George Chandler caught it and gave it to me. I put it between the leaves of a book, and brought it home in good condition and gave it to Tom. It was past 4 o’clock in the afternoon when I saw it flying about. The weather today is still mild, and with the exception of Friday, which was wet and cold, has been so all the year. My spare moments have been given to the lathe. I have had it all to pieces, and cleaned and polished up every part, and finished it last night. It now looks, and is as good, or better, than when new.

Friday February 18

I went to Reading by the 6.44 to the theatre. There was a pantomime on, Aladdin. It was brisk and bright right through, but I did not care much for it, There was nothing brilliant.

Sunday February 20

I can pretty nearly repeat what I have said on the opposite page, and quite so, respecting the weather. It has been gloriously fine and mild right up to Friday, when rain set in, and cold with it, for in the afternoon, we had a little snow storm, but it did not lay for a minute. Yesterday was fine, but showery today. I had a lovely day for the journey on Thursday. The crocuses are full out, and, in places, the daffodil. On the previous Thursday, I heard the chaffinch. Cycling is almost like in the summer. On Friday, the 11^th, I sent off the Humber frame to be re-enamelled, so we have no machine now to go out on.

1898

Tuesday March 1

The Humber frame came today, nicely packed and beautifully enamelled.

Wednesday March 2

I put the Humber together and it now looks as good as new. It cost 14/- for the re-enamelling of the frame. I went to a lecture upon Italy, illustrated by dissolving views, in the Hall this evening. There was over 100 slides and all of them good ones, and the lecture was very interesting and instructive, and very much I enjoyed the treat. Frances sang The Better Land while the views showing it were shown.

Sunday March 6

I had just started for a run to the Monument when it began to snow a little, and, as it looked like either that or rain coming on, when I got to the New Leather Bottle, I turned back and went to Chapel. In the afternoon, the weather came out bright again, so after tea, I had a ride to Arborfield and Eversley, and home in time for Chapel. It was a nice little ride, and the bicycle went splendid, and has well repaid me for the doing of it up.

12 miles

Monday March 7

A nice bright day but very cold NE wind. After tea, which I had a little earlier than usual, I went for ride on the bicycle, choosing the same route as I intended going yesterday. It was very pretty to Arborfield, and just as I was admiring the beautiful sunset, a heavy snow storm drove over. I found a good shelter in the lane skirting the George Russell Park. This lane is two miles long. It soon passed over, and then I bowled merrily along. Soon after hitting the Basingstoke road, I overtook the Mr Brown, the policeman, and I got down and had a talk with him. He informed me Sir George Russell died at 3 o’clock this afternoon. From Gordon Villa to the Monument is just 9 miles via Swallowfield and coming home via Eversley to the Market Place, 9¾. I enjoyed the ride very much.

20 miles

Wednesday March 9

As I wanted to go the meeting in the evening, I took a ride on the bicycle this afternoon intending to go round Knowl Hill and Littlewick, and home via Waltham, but by the time I had got to the Marlow turning, my time was up for turning home, and I had had enough of it, for the NE wind made it slow going. Turning round for home, I had it at my back, and an easy ride home. I got back a little after 5, just as Bertha and Frances were going to the tea meeting. Mr Rodgers came this afternoon and stayed to tea with me. I had to leave him and go to the meeting at ½ past 6. We had a good company and nice time at the Lecture Room.

18 miles

Sunday March 13

Willie Neave came down yesterday and we arranged for a ride this morning, weather permitting. Well the weather did permit, and we had a very pleasant run round Elvetham, Hartley Row, Pilcot, Fleet, and home by Eversley. It was almost like an early summer morning, scarcely any wind, and the sun shone quite warm and we got home just at 1 o’clock. I had a change and felt the benefit of it, and then a nice dinner, and when we had just finished the meal, Redgie and Colyer turned up on a tandem. They came via the Bath road and Twyford, and had enough of it, the tandem going heavy. They had an early tea, and then about 6 o’clock, they went off, Willie Neave going with them.

26 miles

Monday March 14

I repaired the cycle house. Put new joists and mended up the woods where wanted.

Tuesday March 15

I finished the cycle house and whitewashed it, making a good job of it. Had the sundries for the new bicycle come. I paid Tom for them and also for the re-enamelling of the Humber £2.0.0

Wednesday March 16

My upper set of teeth broke this morning, so I went to Reading by the 11.24, and called at Harvey’s. He is going to make a new plate with the old teeth for £2.0.0. Tom went down by the same train as I did and came back with me. After an early tea, I went down again by the bicycle to have the cast of the teeth fitted. I had a pleasant ride and got back by 6 o’clock. Wrote a cheque for the Clyde and got Tom to post it off.

14 miles

Saturday March 19

After waiting two months, the Clyde bicycle came today. When I went to tea Tom had cleaned and got it all ready. I might have tried it but the weather changed today and rained all the after part. I brought the bicycle to the shop and put it on the scale, and it just draws the 28 weight with brake and gear case on. At this, I am well satisfied, and also with the machine as a whole. It far exceeds my expectations, and I have in this a bicycle up to a Humber in every way, for the finish of the machine is perfect.

Sunday March 20

The weather today is splendid and the roads dried up so that I was able to have a nice little run after tea and try the new bicycle. I went to Hartley Row, Pilcot and Fleet, and found the bicycle came quite up to my most sanguine expectations.

26 miles

Monday March 21

After tea, I went out on the Clyde to Swallowfield and the Monument, and had a very nice ride. I did not start til after 6 o’clock.

20 miles

Wednesday March 23

Turned out wet and rough. I did a little gardening.

Thursday March 24

Had a tremendously windy day with snow showers for the journey. However, I got on very well.

Friday March 25

A very rough stormy day. A good deal of snow fell but did not lay. I went to the Liberal meeting in the Hall in the evening.

Saturday March 26

A terribly rough cold snowy day. Fortunately, it does not lay.

Sunday March 27

A missionary, Mr Forfeitt, preached, or rather spoke, upon the Congo mission, the poorest missionary discourse I ever heard. Did not go to Chapel in the evening.

Monday March 28

A nice fine day here, so after tea I went for a run, and foolish like went Hurst way. The roads were very good to Hurst, but from there to Knowl Hill, they were bad, and the Bath road more villainously dirty than any road I have ever been on any time of the year. I turned back at the Seven Stars and came home Ruscombe way. I did not enjoy the ride, and had to wash the machine when I came home. At 8 o’clock I went to the Conservative meeting in the Drill Hall and heard two good speakers, Mr McCartney and Col Lockwood.

16 miles

Tuesday March 29

I went to the Liberal meeting in the Town Hall and heard two of the best speakers I have ever heard – Mr Morton and Mr Howes.

Wednesday March 30

Frances’ machine came today, and I commenced putting it together, but could not get on for want of a screw they had not sent. After tea, Henry and I went to Greywell and home by Odiham, Dogmersfield and Elvetham. A very nice way, but as it was Henry’s first run out this season, we did not travel very fast. Had a refreshment at the Fox and Goose. My new bicycle went like grease.

32 miles

Thursday March 31

I started early and tried to get home early, but did not arrive until past 7 o’clock, so that by the time I had locked up, I had but little time to go at Frances’ machine.

1898

Friday April 1

Got the orders done early. Went for a splendid little ride after tea to Yateley, Blackwater and home by the College, and very much enjoyed it. The nut came for Frances’ machine, so I worked at putting it together until 10 o’clock.

17 miles

Saturday April 2

Up at 6 o’clock and finished Frances’ bicycle, and took it home when I went back to breakfast. The Clyde Co charged very little indeed for what they did – 13/3. I expected it to be a £1.0.0 more than that. Gave Tom a cheque for that and the 9/6 left on the Clyde racer. Willie Neave came down and he asked me to go for a ride tomorrow. Arranged to go at 10 o’clock.

Sunday April 3

Was a lovely bright day, so Willie and I started off by time and had a glorious ride to Swallowfield, the Monument and home through Bramshill Park. There was a considerable wind, but it was balmy, against us going. It made very little difference to our pace and it was most exhilarating. The sun shining made everything look lovely. The roads were perfection, and right merrily we bowled along. At 6 o’clock, Willie started for home and I went with him to Bagshot. We went via Eversley, the Flats, and Blackwater, and when we arrived at the railway bridge where I branched off for home, it was 16 miles and we had been only 1 hour 20 minutes coming, and in this, Willie gathered some ferns to take home, and I had a puncture and repaired it. I had a nice ride home via Bracknell. Willie was very pleased with his day, and well he ought to be, for it was a lovely one, and we had two jolly rides.

23 + 25 = 48 miles

Monday April 4

Mr Phillips and I started off for Odiham, he on his Quadrant tricycle and I on the Clyde. We got along very well until descending Kelsey Hill when the tricycle ran into the side grass and Mr Phillips made a hasty scramble off. However, nothing was hurt but his nerve was shattered and he lost control of the guiding until, passing two ladies just entering Eversley Green, he swerved again into the side grass and this time pitched out and cut his face, but did not damage the tricycle beyond scratching the bell and lamp. He now proceeded very cautiously to the top of the hill leading to the Flats, when he turned back and waited at the Chequers while I went over the Flats to Blackwater and Yateley. The rest did him good and we got home safely. The afternoon was much too windy for cycling, but very pretty.

20 miles

Tuesday April 5

Feeling anything but fit for a ride, I started off at 6.10 pm for Marlow, and with a slight wind at my back, I toddled along at a pretty good pace, landing myself on Marlow bridge at 6.59, eleven minutes under the hour. I stopped about five minutes and then on for Henley, which I reached exactly in 1½ hours from home. It was a lovely evening, and nearly full moon, the roads were in A1 order, and the machine went like nothing. From Henley home, I had to steady the pace because of the uncertain light. The whole journey took 2 hours and 25 minutes, and I was fresher when I came back than when I started. It is quite a treat to ride this light machine. I have so often spoken about the scenery round this journey that it is needless to say any more about it, beyond that Quarry Wood was a grand sight. I thoroughly enjoyed myself all the way round, and felt not tired in a single joint.

32 miles

Wednesday April 6

Friday being Good Friday, I had to do the journey today, and as the cart was required for Bearwood, I went round on the bicycle, leaving the goods for tomorrow. It was a very nice day, bright and sunny but windy. I enjoyed the journey and got home by 3 o’clock. After tea, I went down to Earley to see James, and found him very well indeed. Had a pleasant hour down there and a nice little ride home.

30 miles

Thursday April 7

which was very like a Friday. It was another very nice day, and we were tolerably busy. Willie Neave came down.

Friday April 8 – Good Friday

A beautiful bright sunny morning and day, but very windy. Willie Neave came round to see if I was going out. I went up to the shop to see Henry, and he was inclined for Selborne and to start at 10, but I dissuaded him, for the wind, which was SW, was getting stronger, so I arranged to go for a run to Wycombe after tea. Went home and had a very happy morning working in the garden, and did a lot of clearing up. We had tea, Willie Neave and I, and then called for Henry and left at 4 o’clock for Wycombe. The wind, which was considerable, was at our back, and a splendid run we had before it to Maidenhead and away round the villages by the stream to Wycombe. It was a beautiful ride, and a good evening. The scene from Cookham bridge was very pretty this evening, the bright sun shining on the new green of the grass, and the fresh buds of the trees, and making the river look at its best. We had light refreshments at Wycombe, and then made for home via Marlow. The wind, which had been strong for us, died to a calm just before we reached Wycombe, and we had as good a ride home as we had out. I chose this run for this very purpose, for I anticipated and prophesised the wind would drop about 6, and it did to within a minute or so of that time. I never saw the downhill between Wycombe and Marlow in better condition. We, all three, thoroughly enjoyed the ride all the way round. Had supper and rated the day a great success.

Saturday April 9

Was a rough wet day and so was…

Sunday April 10

…only much more so. I went to Chapel in the morning and did nothing the rest of the day, and was glad to get to bed.

Monday April 11 – Bank Holiday

A nice bright morning but far too windy to think about going for a ride, so I set about doing up the garden and clearing the front piece, and had a very nice morning. After tea, the weather came over dull and a little rain set in. I employed the evening putting a pin for a head lock to Willie Neave’s bicycle and otherwise put his machine in order.

Wednesday April 13

After an early tea, Frances and I started off at 4 o’clock and went the Maidenhead and Wycombe run, and a very nice ride we had. We called in at the Seven Stars coming home, and directly after leaving there, I had a puncture in the front tyre, a nail having pierced right in. A little more, and it would have been through the other side of the tube.

40 miles

Friday April 15

Having got the orders done, I went for a ride in the evening. Leaving here at 6 o’clock, I had a splendid ride to Odiham and thence to Dogmersfield and home by Hartley Row Old Church. It was a lovely evening and I enjoyed every inch of the way. I went with the expectation of hearing the nightingale and cuckoo and of seeing the swallow. But I did not hear either of the former, but I saw two swallows. There was plenty of thrushes and blackbirds and other birds in full song, as they have been newly out this year. The roads were good and there was not much wind, so I put the bicycle along sharp and got round in two hours. This was a good evening run, and very pretty were the young fresh green leaves on the early trees.

26 miles

Saturday April 16

Mr Terry went to the Crystal Palace to see the final of the league football matches, so I had to do the journey. I had a very nice day for the job and got round comfortably. Willie Neave came down this afternoon to see about his factory going to London.

Sunday April 17

Was a grand morning, so after tidying up a lot, I went up town to see if Henry was disposed for Selborne, which he was, so we arranged to start at 10 o’clock. I then went back and saw Willie Neave, and he was pleased to join us. We left at 10.20 and had a beautiful ride over to Selborne. Quite a breeze sprang up from the SW which was against us, but it did not cause us any inconvenience because we did not want to get to our destination before 1 o’clock. This gave us plenty of time to take it easy down, and to enjoy the journey, and to land there without getting hot. Just as we got to Odiham Common, we heard the nightingale and saw some swallows.

It was a very enjoyable journey all the way down, and a very pretty bright morning. We had our lunch at the Selborne Arms. We had two pots of beer and the sandwiches we brought with us. We, all three, thoroughly enjoyed our repast. After lighting up our cigars, our next move was for the zigzag. They have cleared away the undergrowth, and made the path way afresh, all the way up, so that it now has the appearance of the illustration in White’s book. We took a ramble along the top of the hill and then down again to the village. We next did the Long Lythe, and that took up our time, for we had ordered tea to be ready at 4 o’clock. We had a very good tea, only the eggs were a little overcooked. That did not trouble me, for my two went down very palatable. We had a jovial tea and were not overcharged.

We left Selborne at 5.5 and, with a nice SW breeze, we had an easy journey before us. At Alton we parted company with Willie Neave, he taking the road to London and me to Wokingham. We had a splendid run home before the wind, doing the journey in a little over the two hours from Selborne. It was a lovely evening with a grand sunset. If not the best, it was one of the best journeys we have had to Selborne. South Warnborough looked very pretty especially on the down journey. Another very pretty piece was just entering Selborne. I saw the whole shadow of a cloud as it moved along in the hills to my right, and then presently we were under the shadow of another, and the Hanger still in the sunlight, which gave it a very pretty aspect. As I say, we put up at the Selborne Arms and in the parlour, had a happy and jovial repast, for not being at all distressed or at all uncomfortably damp, and being tolerably thirsty, we were in a condition to thoroughly enjoy our rest and refreshment. The afternoon walk, too, was very pleasing and enjoyable. The gathering of the wild flowers, of which there were an abundance, and the grand views and scenery, both up the Hanger and along the Lythe, made the afternoon one to remember with pleasure. It added to our enjoyment having Willie to take round and show him the various places and things of interest connected with White’s history of Selborne. The weather all day was as near perfect as we could desire. The roads were in A1 order and everything passed off happily and well.

52 miles

Monday April 18

Did a very good day’s work and had a little run in the evening round Binfield, where I saw, and had a talk, with Mrs Butler.

6 miles

Thursday April 19

Put the shop fittings tidy. After ten, Frances and I went for a very nice little ride to Swallowfield and the Monument. We called in at Sparvell’s and had a pleasant ½ hour there, and then a nice ride home. We bundled round at 12 miles the hour comfortably.

20 miles

Wednesday April 20

It was a beautiful morning and Henry and Kemp went for a walk to Carter’s Hill and back to dinner. After dinner, the weather took a turn for the worse and came over dull and colder. I went for a run to Guildford via the Hog’s Back and home through Bagshot. I enjoyed the run very well, but not like some I have had round that course. I saw some pretty little sights and was glad I went.

44 miles

Thursday April 21

Did the journey, and sold Mr Bulidge the Humber. Went home to dinner before doing the booking, and just as I had finished, Jamie came in, he having come from Newbury on a ladies’ bicycle about 6 inches too low for him. Bertha and the rest were gone to the missionary meeting, which was postponed in consequence of the election. However, we met them coming home as we were going up the Station road. After doing the booking, I called in at Heron’s for a bottle of whisky, and there I saw Mr Hollis, who asked me about a bicycle, so I called in at Tom’s and told him to go in and see him in the morning.

Friday April 22

Had two pigs from Mr Simmons.

Saturday April 23

My birthday. A very cold day. Henry has had a swollen face since Wednesday.

Sunday April 24

Henry was in bed all day. I essayed to go for a run to Midhurst and Petworth, but by the time I reached the Hog’s Back, I could see it would not do for a day out. The wind was east and tolerably strong, and I was so cold all along the Hog’s Back that it quite determined me to give up the idea of Midhurst. So, crawling up under the shelter of the woods, I sat down and had some of the sandwiches I brought for my dinner. The sun shone and it was tolerably warm here in the shelter, but when I started again for Guildford I was thankful to get there and turn for home via Normandy, at which place I called for a drink, and there saw a tramp who had a wooden leg and was making his way to Southampton. When I told him he was out of his course here, he said he could not face the Hog’s Back. Poor fellow, I suppose he couldn’t without a single Public House all the way from Guildford to Farnham. At Frimley, I had a nail run in the tyre, but fortunately did not enter the inner tube. I got home at 10 past 1 and so was just in time for dinner. Mr Colyer and Redgie came down on the new tandem and arrived here at 11 o’clock. Willie Neave was also here. Although the day was fine and the sun shone, I did not go out again, for the wind was so piercingly cold.

44 miles

Monday April 25

Henry still in bed. A very cold day, and so was…

Tuesday April 26

…but…

Wednesday April 27

was warm and muggy, for rain fell last night, and some again this morning. There looked no prospect for a ride, so I laid some turfs in the garden, but not getting on well with them, and the weather clearing up, I got ready for a run after tea, and Frances and I had a very nice one to Odiham and Dogmersfield, for it turned out a lovely evening. I expected to, but did not hear a single nightingale. Between Odiham and Dogmersfield, we met over 40 cyclists out for a club run.

28 miles

Thursday April 28

Got round my journey all right, but just after passing Mr Hall’s at East Heath, the horse went down and spoilt my day. She cut her knees but very slightly.

Saturday April 30

Had Mr Renham’s horse for the journey. A wet day. I had Tom’s new [illegible word] in the evening, but could not go for a long run because of the mud. Mr E Herington came.

1898

Sunday May 1

Was a rough wet day. Edward Herington and Mr Neave were at our place all day. The rain cleared off in the afternoon so that Willie was able to go back to London by bicycle.

Monday May 2

I laid the turfs in the back garden, and went to a circus after tea. The name of the circus was Alexandra’s Circus, and a good time out it was. The best travelling one I have ever been to. It was the largest tent I ever saw.

Wednesday May 4

Wet again.

Sunday May 8

Another wet Sunday and could not go out for a ride.

Monday May 9

A very nice drying day. Frances and I had a very nice ride after tea to Heckfield, Hook, Odiham and home via Eversley.

30 miles

Wednesday May 11

Was very rough and wet at times. I was at work in the garden all the evening. Frances, Mr Kirkby and Herington had a nice little ride out after ten, and hence before the rain came on.

Saturday May 14

A very nice day. Henry’s bicycle came. Mr Holmes paid his rent.

Sunday May 15

Was a regular disappointment, for instead of being a nice fine day as it promised, it turned out dull and drizzly. I did a lot in the garden and got it tidy.

Monday May 16

I went for a very nice ride after tea to Odiham and Dogmersfield. Although not warm, it was very pleasant and pretty, and I enjoyed the view of the country much.

30 miles

Wednesday May 18

There was a terrifically high wind blowing all day from the NE and I was afraid we should not be able to go for a ride. However, after tea, Henry and I made an attempt and went to Hook, which was with the wind, but from there to Odiham, Dogmersfield, Pilcot and Fleet home, was against it. The roads were perfection, the sun shone bright, and in spite of the cold wind, we enjoyed our run much, and made good progress against the wind, doing 11 miles the hour all round. It is needless to say that after these spring rains, the foliage is luxuriant and beautiful. Frances, Kirkby and Herington went round somewhat the same course.

34 miles

Thursday May 19

Had a very rough, cold, wet day for the journey, worse than any during the winter. WE Gladstone died at 5 o’clock this morning.

Sunday May 22

Thursday and Friday were exceedingly rough, cold and very wet days, and Saturday was not much better, excepting that it did not rain. We have had a rare lot of N. Easterly, and it seems as if it never will be warm again, but today, the weather has completely changed. The wind has got to SE and the air is balmy and the sun warm and grateful. Willie Neave came down yesterday, and Edward Herington came to our place to sleep. We went to Chapel in the morning, and I wish I had in the evening, for Mr Cave, they say, surpassed himself with his memorial service on the departure of Mr W. E. Gladstone. But instead of going to Chapel, I, Henry and Neave went to Mortimer, Bramley, Sherfield and via Eversley home. The weather was all right, but the roads very cordy, so that all our attention had to be directed as to where to go. While at the White Hart at Sherfield, it began to thunder and a heavy storm lay over the part of the country we had just passed, so we just made haste for home, and just escaped it, except along Bramshill Common, where it rained quite freely, but not enough to wet us through or spoil the roads. When we got home, we found Mr Colyer and Redgie at supper, having come on the tandem just after we left. They left again about ½ past 9, and so also did Mr Herington.

36 miles

Tuesday May 24

I left home at 7 o’clock to have a fast run to Odiham and Dogmersfield, but before I got to Odiham, I found I must give the job up tonight as regards time, for beyond Hartley Row the roads were muddy from yesterday’s heavy thunder storm. At Hartley Row, they had the heaviest they have had for years. Several trees were struck by the lightning. It is 12½ miles to Odiham bridge, and that took me exactly 50 minutes. From there I had to go at a very quiet pace because of the muddy roads. It was a nice evening, but much too cold to thoroughly enjoy it.

28 miles

Wednesday May 25

After an early tea, Henry and I, and Frances and Edward Herington, started off for Swallowfield. As Henry’s bicycle did not travel down the inclines anything like so fast as mine, we changed machines at Swallowfield. He no sooner mounted it than he found a vast difference in the go and so did I in his. The further he went, the more convinced he was how very much easier it was to ride, and as the machines were identically the same except in the tyres, we came to the conclusion that the AB non-puncturable was a very slow and dead tyre. It was a very pretty ride round we had, and until Hartley Row, not very cold, but from there it came over piercingly cold. We went from the Monument to Stratfield, and there turned left to Rotherwick, and a lovely piece that was too. There is a long and somewhat steep hill to surmount, and Henry on my machine, went up and enjoyed it, a hill that he has always walked before. When I got home, I went over to Tom’s and got him to order a pair of Dunlops, and while Henry was getting the cheque, he wrote the letter and I posted it before ¼ past 9, and hope we may be fortunate enough to get it by Saturday for our Whit Sunday ride to Salisbury.

28 miles

Thursday May 26

Had a cold and wet day for the journey. When I got home, Bertha had just finished the sitting room, and was very pleased with it. The ceiling has been whitewashed and the room re-papered, and Bertha had this day washed the curtains, and having lit the lamp, called me to see the room. I went, and when I opened the door, the place was full and thick with smoke, the lamp having gone up and made a deuce of a mess. Poor Bertha was ready to burst into tears and utterly lost. I had supper and then took down the pictures and dusted them, and with a feather brush cleaned the ceiling and walls, and got the room clean again.

Friday May 27

A cold, wet day, but I do not mind that because it is more likely for tomorrow and Sunday to be fine. After 8, Frances and I went round Hurst.

8 miles

Saturday May 28

We were tolerably busy. I got off the journey by 10 o’clock, and everything well forward in case the tyres should arrive. When I went to Tom’s to tea, they had just arrived, so I hurried back, and it was not long before I had them on the wheels, and the bicycle together again. I ran it round the Holt and found they were all right. The day passed very pleasantly and everything went well. The weather looks promising for tomorrow.

Sunday May 29

A splendid morning, the best we have had for a very long time. Was up betimes and put the garden straight, then punctually at ½ past 7, Henry arrived and we sat down and had a good breakfast. I had a good night’s rest and so did Henry, thanks to the sleeping mixture. Willie Neave was to have gone with us, but as he did not come down from London last night, we gave him up. However, just before we had finished breakfast, Bertha sent round to see if he had arrived, and when Neave got to his place, he had just arrived from London on his bicycle, and in a few minutes more was with us. He had a good breakfast while we packed up, and cut a few more sandwiches.

A little before 9 o’clock, we, Henry, Neave and I started on our way for Salisbury, leaving home as comfortably as ever we did, ourselves and those left behind. It was a glorious morning, bright and sunny, and tempered with bright and pretty clouds. The roads were perfection, and altogether we made a grand start.

We first made for Basingstoke via Hook, leaving the decision of the way beyond that to be settled as we proceeded. By the time we got to Hartley Row there was a considerable NW wind blowing, but as the machines went so easily we did not mind that. The weather did not hinder us much, for we got to Basingstoke under the hour and a half. From H. Row, we had the company of De Vere Allfrey’s coachman, who we overtook. Henry seemed to enjoy his company by the way he kept up the talk with him. As the wind was NW, I proposed to go via Whitchurch in preference to Alresford and Winchester because I thought the wind would be against us to Hurstbourne Tarrant, from there to Romsey, it would be with us, and we should then do the piece against the wind first, instead of last as it would be from Alresford to Romsey. At Basingstoke we parted company with the coachman, he being bound for Winchester. We did not dismount here, nor until we reached the hill after Deane Gate.

Although from Basingstoke we turned directly against the wind, which was blowing quite fresh, we did not experience any difficulty in bowling along at a pace quite quick enough. It was a lovely run to Hurstbourne and the sun shone bright and made the valley by Overton and Laverstoke look enchanting. Well enough we might enjoy it on this bright Sunday morning, and with the prospect of a lot more. From Hurstbourne through Longparish etc we had the wind in our favour, and it was not long before we reached Fullerton. And as the sun shone bright and hot, and it was ½ past 12, we decided to have our lunch here, so we ordered a pot of beer and some ginger ale and sat down under the may tree, which was full of blossom, opposite the Seven Stars, and by the riverside. We had no sooner sat down than it came over cloudy, and the wind being quite cold, we moved our seat to the shelter of a wall, and there we had our repast, and then a smoke.

After leaving Fullerton we were into Stockbridge almost before we knew where we were. We stopped not at Stockbridge, but made at once for Romsey. We followed the way we have always been for about three or four miles, but at one of the turnings I made a mistake and took the right instead of the left fork, and so missed the valley run over the many bridges. At Mottisfont station, we struck our old road. I have no chart but this was the correct way, but not the way I wanted to go. It was not far and very pretty this fresh piece of road.

From Mottisfont, with the wind behind us, and perfect roads and level beneath, we just did put it along this last four miles into Romsey, having reached which place it was questioned which way to go. Should we go to Ringwood and Fordingbridge, or direct from here to Salisbury. Upon the latter, we decided, because the weather had come over very cloudy, windy and cold.

It was only 3.30 and we feared we should not be able to get any tea, especially when we could not make anyone hear at the Coffee House where we put up for tea last year. While waiting outside a friend directed us to a house at the corner, where we got very well served and our bicycles housed. This waiting at Romsey, while we were deciding on our course, and outside the Coffee House before we got in, gave me quite a chill, and a ringing in the head. However, some hot tea and a two mile hill outside Romsey warmed me up and dispersed the cold. As I say we had a very good tea with two eggs each, nicely cooked, and then about ½ past 4 we started off for our last stage to Salisbury, a distance of 15 miles, for we took the shortest road by turning to the right directly over the bridge.

Leading up out of Romsey is a hill a mile long and steep. Up this Henry rode as though he enjoyed it, which made Willie Neave and me laugh, for we have always been accustomed to see him shy at the long hill, and always walk them, but today he dispised them. From Romsey, the wind was very strong and cold and I had a job to keep warm. I wonder it did not hinder us more, but in spite of it we went along at 12 miles the hour. Six miles from Salisbury we struck the road over which we had been before, and from the top of the range of hills had a delightful four mile downhill ride in to Salisbury.

Being early, we had a grand view of the Cathedral all the way down, and got into Salisbury at 6 o’clock. We made straight for the house where we had a wash and changed our shirts. I had brought a vest and an extra shirt, both of which I put on, for the evening was very cold, but with three shirts on and with the aid of newspaper and brown paper, I somewhat managed to shut out the cold wind and to enjoy my walk round the city.

Mr Sidford had arranged with Henry to meet us at Salisbury, and accompany us back on Monday. He came down on Saturday. But as we did not want his company, we kept a sharp lookout for him, so that we might catch the first sight and so be able to avoid him. We strolled round the city grounds and the Cathedral until it was time for the service goers to come out of the various places (there being no evening service at the Cathedral) and then we went back to our lodgings to be safe from our friend, and also to lie in the warm. Had a very nice meat supper and then out again and to the Crown for a drop of something. Here we sat talking to the people in the bar until it was time for us to go back to the Phoenix and go to bed. The distance down was both by Willie Neave and my cyclometer.

70 miles

Monday May 30 – Whit Monday

We went to bed last night about 10 o’clock and had the same room as usual, Willie sleeping in the little bed in the corner. We all dropped off early and were asleep by ½ past 10. I woke about 4 and heard the wind blowing most ominously, and looking out of the window, I saw a cold grey sky which looked very like turning to wet, so I got to bed again and dreamt it rained hard and we had to train it home. When I woke and looked out at 6, it looked like as though my dream would come true. Had it been a nice bright warm morning, I should have got up and gone out, but that was out of the question, so we lay until ½ past 7, and then got up and put all the clothing we could on. I had three shirts, and they I put on. We had a very nice breakfast, rashers and eggs. While at breakfast, it rained a little.

While cleaning up the bicycles the sun came out and the weather seemed to change all at once. So, we had to take off some of our clothing, and glad we were to be able to. We left Salisbury about 10 o’clock, very different from how we expected to an hour or so ago, for the sun shone bright and warm, and everything looked cheerful, and we were in high spirits, for it now promised to be a grand day, and so it turned out to be.

Coming out of Salisbury, we kept one eye open for our friend Sidford, and having crossed the stream for the left valley road and not seen anything of him, we felt quite safe. It is needless to say we had a beautiful ride all along here. Like last year, everything seemed at its best, and very thankful I was that the sun shone so bright on this piece of the journey.

When we struck the Amesbury road, we turned left to Stonehenge and took Willie up to see the stones. I was glad we went up, because he had not seen them, and I was glad of the opportunity of refreshing my memory of them. We did not stay long for fear of meeting our friend, this being a most likely place for him to come to. With the wind behind us we came down to Amesbury at a terrific place, and narrowly escaped an accident brought about by two brake loads of excursionists edging us almost into the ditch.

It was ½ past 12 when we got to Amesbury, and so we called in at a pub and had our dinner off the remains of yesterday’s leavings and washed it down with ginger ale. We had a nice sunny ride to Upavon, but soon after passing the place, we had to take shelter from a passing scud of rain. It was not enough to damp the roads, and was soon over.

After a pleasant short rest under the shelter of a thick bank of trees, we made a start for the best part of the journey, for our course now lay directly with the wind, and we went along at 14 miles the hour comfortably. We did not stop at Pewsey, but over clinking good roads travelled at a tremendous pace to Newbury. Every now and then, a flying scud of fine rain swept over us, but nowhere to cause inconvenience. In fact, I rather liked it. The scenery was grand this afternoon, for in spite of the occasional scuds of rain, it was bright and luminous, and the country looked prettier than as though it were all sunshine.

The pace we travelled soon put us to Newbury, for from Hungerford to Newbury, nine miles occupied only a shade over the half hour. We did not stop at the former place, but had tea at the Coffee Hotel Newbury. While at tea, it rained quite sharp, but fortunately before we left, it gave over, and we had a lovely express ride over the common to Aldermaston and Mortimer, where we took in a little liquer, and then came straight away home via Finchampstead, where there was a club at the New Inn.

The May on Heckfield Common from the Monument was a sight never to be forgotten. Such an abundance I never saw of it before, and walking on the common in among it and the furze was a gentleman with no clothing on except a shirt, and that open in front. When we got to Finchampstead, we found they had had a lot of rain and the roads were quite muddy, whereas until we got there they were dry in every place, and perfect. We reached home at 7 o’clock, and when I changed my clothes and had a warm sponge down, I was as fresh as when I got up Sunday morning, and I had not the least feeling anywhere of having been for a ride.

I have not attempted to describe or say much about the scenery – that would occupy too much time and space. A few words will sum it up. It was grand all round, and almost perfect, and considering the kind of weather we have had for the last two months, we were extremely fortunate in securing two such beautiful days, by far the best two we have had. It was very bright and sunny up to one o’clock Sunday, and though after that it came over cloudy and cold, we had no fear of rain, and then to think we should get such a glorious sunny morning Monday, when at 9 o’clock we could have been certain of a bitterly cold, dull, windy, if not heavy raining day. The effect of the weather of the afternoon and evening was that we got home in a better condition than as if it had been hot and sunny. And I suppose and have reason to think we enjoyed our two days outing more than 90 per cent of the cyclists who were out then. The whole of our expenses for the [illegible word] did not exceed 15/-. I have little doubt but this trip will long remain a pleasant reflection for our memories. Neither Henry or I had an ache or pain all the time. The distance by both cyclometers was 80 miles.

Tuesday May 31

A cold, wet day, one we were thankful to be at home in.

1898

Wednesday June 1

Rough and wet. I was at work at home at odd jobs.

Thursday June 2

A very wintry, cold, rough and wet day.

Friday June 3

Another, cold, showery day. I went round Hurst after 8.

8 miles

Saturday June 4

Very cold and rough.

Sunday June 5

Was a lovely day. From the early morning it gave promise of a good day. After clearing up and putting the place tidy, I went round to see if Willie Neave was a going out. Of course he was, and so we went together to Finchampstead and to the Monument and Sherfield, then to the left to Rotherwick and home by Hazeley Heath and Bramshill Park. I enjoyed it immensely. It was a beautiful laney ride on a lovely summer morning. Got home just right for dinner and not in the least tired, so I enjoyed my meal, and had a lay down after until 4 o’clock, when I went up to see if Henry was going out this evening. I found him in bed with a bad cold, so of course he could not go. After tea, I started off for Marlow at 6 o’clock, and had one of the nicest rides over there I have had for years, and without any hurrying, got there in 55 minutes. I then had another lovely piece before me to Henley and home.

I enjoyed this run superbly, never better that I can remember. It was perfect all the way round. Although I was only 2h 35m gone and I waited about at Marlow, Henley and Twyford, and walked the hill out of Marlow, yet I did not hurry anywhere. It was too pretty an evening to hurry over. I got home quite fresh and not a symptom of having been beyond a few miles. The new Clyde travels many miles an hour faster, and is much easier than any I have ridden before, and grand enjoyment it is to bestride such a mount.

Willie Neave did not leave until 10 o’clock, and had a grand ride before him to Wimbledon.

29 + 33 = 62 miles

Monday June 6

A showery day. I went to Bearwood, but did not enjoy it, being wet and somewhat cold. Got on well in the shop.

6 miles

Tuesday June 7

Caught a cold in my throat, and tried to work it off with a run in the evening, but as the air was cold, I only made it worse and when I got home, I had to go to bed, and lay there until…

Saturday June 11

…when I got up but could do no work.

Sunday June 12

Did not get up until the evening.

Tuesday June 14

Fred Kent and his wife and two children came to stay with us until Saturday. They came from Trowbridge, where they have been staying with Don for the past week or so.

Wednesday June 15

Planted out the geraniums.

Thursday June 16

I did the journey. Fred Kent came with me. Did not feel very well.

Friday June 17

After 8 o’clock, I had a nice gentle ride round Hurst, and heard two nightingales, which turned out to be the last I heard this season, for at supper time, I was seized with a violent pain across my heart, and with difficulty, got upstairs and to bed. Dr Ward was sent for, but before he came, the pain passed away under the influence of hot water. This confined me to my bed for another day or two, and very much weakened me. Ever since I have been laid up, we have had very bad weather for cycling, not one day which I should call fit for a day’s outing, either wet or windy, so that had I been well and about, I should have done but little cycling.

Fred Kent and family left on Saturday.

Tuesday June 28

Willie Neave commenced his holidays on Saturday. He and I had a nice little ride this evening. I left here at 7 o’clock and met him and Frances coming home from Odiham just beyond the White House. He turned and came with me, and Frances came on home. We went to Elvetham, Pilcot and Fleet, and, as I say, had a very nice ride of 24 miles.

Wednesday June 29

For a wonder, turned out a very nice fine day. At 5 o’clock Henry, Frances, Willie, Edward and I started off for an evening ride. We went to Windsor Park via Bracknell and had a grand view of the Castle and through the Park. We went right through and on to Egham and along the river side to Windsor, thence to Bray and home by Holyport and Binfield. We all enjoyed the run very much. Edward and Willie were charmed with the ride through the Park. We set the pace and brought them home cool and fresh. Heard three cuckoos.

36 miles

Thursday June 30

Davis, while at prayers this morning in the cellar, had a paralytic stroke, and was taken home insensible.

1898

Sunday July 3

To Chapel and L.S. this morning, and for a very nice ride this evening. Exactly at ½ past 5, Henry and I started off, not knowing wither we were going, so we went to Bagshot and then on to Guildford and Ripley, back through Send, Woking, Chobham and Bagshot.

It was a very nice evening, a little windy but that troubled us not. The roads and country was perfect, and much we enjoyed the scenery. We had two cups of Bovril and cake at Ripley, and also a glass of beer each at Bagshot. We did not know there was an eclipse of the moon on tonight and Henry remarked to me that he thought it was full moon along now, but we could see but a small portion of it, and I thought it was a dark cloud obscuring it.

We got home exactly at 10, fresh and cool. The distance to Guildford via Bagshot, was 20 miles, and the distance all round, 50. Henry thinks it was the easiest run he ever had, and I, myself, certainly enjoyed it very much.

50 miles

Monday July 4

Was a nice day, and, as the glass was rising, it gave promise of a fine day for tomorrow, so I got on well with my work, and did the Eversley orders, of which there was an extra large quantity, and got everything ready for tomorrow’s journey because I intended going to Southampton with Willie Neave. Miss Kirkby, Frances and Willie, after tea, went to Odiham and Dogmersfield and enjoyed their ride very much. I arranged with Willie to be round to breakfast at ½ past 5 if the morning turned out favourable.

Tuesday July 5

Fortunately, I had a dose of sleeping mixture which I took last night, and it had the desired effect, for I fell off to sleep and did not wake until 4 o’clock this morning. When Bertha got up to get our breakfast ready, I did not get up but fell off to sleep again until past 5 o’clock, when I jumped up and was soon dressed and down and found breakfast ready and Willie waiting. It was a splendid morning, the best we have had this summer, and we sat down to breakfast in good spirits and excellent health. We did not hurry, so that it was ¼ past 6 by the time we made a start, and an excellent start it was, for we left everything satisfactory at home, and we had every prospect of a good day before us, and let me say here, we had it. It was the morning of the year, bright, sunny and calm, and not too hot, and the roads in perfect condition. We went via Hartley Row to Basingstoke and did not dismount until St Cross, a mile the other side of Winchester, where we, as usual, had a glass of ginger ale and some sandwiches. It was a grand run from Basingstoke, with not a thing to mar our pleasure. We walked Otterbourne Hill and then came express into Southampton, reaching the Bar at 10.25. Taking out the stop of 20 minutes at St Cross made the riding considerably under the four hours for the 48 miles.

I landed at Southampton as fresh as though I had just got out of bed. We had more ginger ale at Southampton and bought 2lb of strawberries to eat on the boat. I had a comfortable seat by the paddle box, the sun shone bright and warm, and what wind there was, was with us, so there was but little wind made by the boat. The fare was 5/2 for the two of us, to Southsea, which is 1/10 less than the times before. We had dinner at the Speedwell and then went back to Southsea, and going there, I saw a dog run over by a van, and had its jaw and shoulder smashed, a ghastly sight. We spent the afternoon on the pier, and then back to Portsmouth for tea, of which we had plenty. A very, very nice ride on the floating bridge landed us at Gosport at 6 o’clock, and at 5 minutes past we were in the saddles and directly on course homewards.

There was a strong wind against us for the first 10 miles and then it dropped to a calm. It took us one hour to do this first 10 miles, and hard work too, but the next 10 was done in 50 minutes, which brought us to the George Inn at the foot of Filmore Hill, where we made our first dismount, and refreshed ourselves with ginger ale and the remainder of the sandwiches. Riding up Filmore Hill we did not dismount again until the Golden Pot, where we had our first glass of beer and last liquer up, for from there we did not stop until we reached home at 10.55. The two stoppages occupied 25 minutes, so that this brought the travelling out at just 12 miles the hour for the 52 miles. We finished up quite fresh and strong and were ready for our supper, which we had and enjoyed. It was a grand day from start to finish and we enjoyed the whole lot of it. The roads were perfection all the way, and the weather far beyond anything we have had as yet this year. To pick out any special piece as being more enjoyable than the rest is a job, for it was all beautiful. My Clyde did the whole journey without any attention and made not a sound all the way around, and went like butter in the sun. Willie thought himself very fortunate in securing such a nice day for the trip he has been looking forward to all the year.

106 miles

Wednesday July 6

Was not such a good day for cycling, and would not have done for our Portsmouth trip. I did not go out but did a little in the garden. Frances, Eva and Willie Neave went to Henley Regatta and had a nice time.

Thursday July 7

Had a nice day for the journey, which I got over early so as to go to Henley Regatta in the evening. When I got home, I found all our folks had gone there for the day, so after a bit of dinner, I started off at ¼ past 7 and had a very nice ride to Henley, arriving there at 8 o’clock. Put my machine up at a cottage and went on the parade ground and had an hour or more of daylight, and then saw the fireworks, which were very similar to those of last year’s. Directly the fireworks were over, I made a start for home and after the first mile, had the road all to myself. It was a very pleasant ride and I very much enjoyed it. Got home by 11 o’clock.

22 miles

Friday July 8

After 9 o’clock, Willie Neave and I took a ride round Hurst and liked it much.

8 miles

Sunday July 10

Was cold and dull all day until tea time, when the sun broke out and changed the character of the weather as if by magic. Had it been a fine day, Willie and I were going out for a day ride Guildford way, and he would have rode to London from there in the evening, for this is his last day of holidays. However, as it was, he stayed at our place and went back by train. While at tea, Henry came down ready for a ride, so I changed and got ready too, and we had one of the nicest evening runs we have had to Swallowfield, Sherfield, Rotherwick, Newnham, Odiham, Dogmersfield and Fleet, for the roads were good and the evening beautiful.

37 miles

Monday July 11

Did my booking and set out the window and had a very good day in the shop, and then at 7 o’clock, I went off to Odiham, Dogmersfield, Pilcot and Elvetham and had a nice evening ride of 30 miles.

Wednesday July 13

Frances and I had a good run this evening. It was a bit windy, NE, so we went with it to Hartley Row, Hook, Newnham and Old Basing, and by the time we got there, it died down to a calm and we then had a lovely ride to Mapledurwell, Greywell, Odiham, Dogmersfield, Pilcot, Elvetham and home. The flowers were lovely and so was the scent of the hay. I had to call at Henry Vass’s going out, otherwise we did not stop anywhere, but travelled the whole journey of 41 miles at 11 miles the hour, and got home not in the least moist or hot. Frances enjoyed it immensely. Just before entering Pilcot, in a garden next to the church, we saw a rose tree like a large rhododendron shrub, covered with white roses, hundreds of them. I think it is a good year for roses, for I have seen a great quantity of them.

41 miles

Thursday July 14

The first really hot day we have had. The wind has gone from N and NE to SW. I had a good day for the journey, and got home by 7.30. About 20 to 9, I started off for a ride and went to Twyford via Stanlake and home via Hurst and the Reading road. It was beautifully warm and such a lovely summer evening, and I had such a very nice hour out.

12 miles

Friday July 15

Had a very busy day, but by hurrying, I got done in time to set off by 8 and have another evening ride, this time to Binfield, Buck Farm, White Waltham, Waltham St Lawrence, Waltham Street, Haines Hill and Bill Hill home. A beautiful evening, calm and warm and very pretty.

21 miles

Sunday July 17

Edward came to breakfast. I went for a ride to the Monument and back before dinner. Left at 11 and went via Barkham and Swallowfield and found the road very much cut up right to Swallowfield, and parts of the Basingstoke road unrideable. Came home via Eversley and there the roads were all right. It was a nice little turn round and a very pretty morning. Not having to hurry, I came home cool, and not in the least damp although it was a hot and close morning. After tea, Henry and I went out by Eversley to the Monument, Sherfield, Rotherwick, Newnham, Basing, Mapledurwell, Greywell, Odiham, Dogmersfield, Hartley Row, Elvetham, and across the Flats, home.

It was a delightful summer evening and would have been perfect if it had not been for the multitude of gnats and flies about. Unfortunately I forgot to take my glasses, and the consequence was I was severely punished about the eyes. However, where they were not quite so numerous, it was very enjoyable riding.

Everything looked so beautiful, especially the little gardens. At the Fox and Goose, Greywell, we had refreshments and while we were doing so, Mr Heelas dropped in. Though I have been so often lately round Dogmersfield, I like it as much or more this evening as ever. Oh, it was lovely, all amongst the flowers and trees and the sweet perfume of new hay. It was ½ past 5 when we left home and ½ past 9 when we arrived home, and the distance was 43 miles. Again I came home fresh and strong, feeling all the better for my day’s run. There is an excursion to Hastings tomorrow and as Philip Sale is going, I have arranged to go with him, so after watering the garden and having supper, I went to bed, but could not get to sleep until I took a dose of the mixture.

64 miles

Monday July 18

Bertha not being well, Maud got up and got the breakfast all ready for me by a ¼ past 6, and I had a comfortable one, and went off feeling well and fresh. The train was advertised to start at 7 but it was 20 past before we left. We had a splendid carriage, one of the new thirds, upholstered right up, and beautifully easy riding, so being a beautiful fine morning and warm, we had a nice ride down.

George Woods was waiting for us at the station. The first thing I did was to have a little bathe, which I enjoyed, for the water was warm. We had an early dinner at George’s because Philip was going to Winchelsea. This made it rather a too long afternoon, for we did not have tea until 6 o’clock. We had a very nice tea, and then it was time to see about getting home. I bought a purse for Maud (1/9) and a brooch for Hilda (2/11). We got into the Reading Express coming back and changed at Guildford into the 10.25 for Wokingham and got home at 11, an hour nearly earlier than the excursion time. I was glad I went, for we had a nice long time with George and Susan and Margaret, and they were very kind and hospitable, and entertained us well. The weather was beautiful all day.

Wednesday July 20

We, that is Henry, Frances, Edward and I, had a nice little ride this evening. We went to Bagshot and thence through Camberley to Hartley Row, round Elvetham and across the Flats, home. The wind was in the East, and the sky very overcast and dull, more like a November day.

30 miles

Friday July 22

We had quite a nice little drop of rain today, which was much needed.

Sunday July 24

Went to Chapel this morning. There were seven baptised this evening, but I did not go to that service, but for a ride instead. It was a beautiful day and I could not resist the temptation. Henry and I started at ½ past 5 and went via Hartley Row to Basingstoke, which we reached in an hour and 20 minutes against a strong wind, which dropped just as we left Basingstoke for Alton. It was as usual a lovely piece along here, and we caught it just right for the light on the hills. We did not go into the town of Alton, but turned up for the Golden Pot, where we had a liquer up. The road down to Warnborough was cut up a good deal, but enough left good for our track. Had a puncture at Odiham, but soon repaired it. It was just 50 miles round, and took exactly 4½ hours to do, which, considering we must have stopped nearly ½ an hour for refreshments and puncture, put the pace at 12 miles the hour all round. It was a beautiful view from start to finish, and one of those we thoroughly enjoyed all round. I came home quite fresh and cool, and had a good night’s rest, free from any tiredness.

50 miles

Monday July 25

Frances went to Arundel by the 3.30.

Wednesday July 27

Sunday School treat day, and, of course, wet, for about 1 o’clock a heavy thunderstorm broke over the place, and we had a splendid and much needed rain for an hour. It then cleared up and the sun came out and dried up the grass sufficiently for the children.

Thursday July 28

I did not go the journey but sent Mr Terry, so as to let Henry get the goods ready for the Volunteer Camp, which is to be held at Scot’s farm this year. I quite enjoyed my day at home.

Friday July 29

Was a miserably cold and dull day, so cold that we had to have our meals by the fire.

Saturday July 30

Was beautifully fine and warm, and promised well for the Bank Holidays. Edward Herington and I proposed going to Arundel tomorrow on our bicycles, and everything looks propitious for the journey. I got well forward with my work all day, and by the evening had made out nearly all the monthly accounts for the journey. I went home a little before we closed and found Edward had arrived. We were all in bed before 11 o’clock and, by the help of the medicine, to sleep soon.

Sunday July 31

Bertha was up and got our breakfast, and we sat down to it by ½ past 5, and at 6 o’clock we were ready to start. It was a glorious morning, and perfect for our job. We were in excellent health and good spirits, and we left everything well at home. So no wonder we were happy. We started at 6.3 and directed our course for the Crooked Billet, Crowthorne, Frimley, Ash, Puttenham, Shackleford, Milford, and then by the main road to Petworth and Arundel. The first hour covered 13 miles, and our first get off was to push up the crown of the road to the Hog’s Back, along which it was splendid going, as also to Puttenham, Shackleford and Milford. The next dismount was at Petworth for a bottle of ginger ale each.

Passing through Fittleworth, I knocked over two men who would not give me room enough to pass, which very much riled them.

We got to Arundel at ½ past 10, had a warm bath, a good breakfast, and then into the Park, and had one of the loveliest walks imaginable, and one which I thoroughly enjoyed. We got back just in time for dinner, and had a jolly time. After dinner, I looked over the new part of the house, and after a rest, I went again into the Park until tea time. I left Arundel at ¼ to 6, and with the exception of the walk down Bury Hill, I did not make a dismount until I reached Guildford, which I reached via Pulborough, Billingshurst, Wisborough Green, Loxwood, Alfold, Bramley and Shalford. At Guildford, I had coffee and ham, and a talk with a person who knew Howard and Ducrocq, and who eventually was in the cycle trade. They were going to Littlehampton that night. After Guildford, I did not again dismount until I reached home via Bagshot at ¼ to 11. I stopped at Guildford just a half hour, so that let 4½ hours for the 54 miles, and seeing I had to walk down Bury Hill, it made fast riding all the way. The roads were perfection all the way there and back to Guildford, but from there, home, via Bagshot, they had had no rain and were villainously bad, and how I escaped a puncture was a marvel. The weather was lovely all the time, and what wind there was, was not for me, but that I did not mind. It was a grand day’s outing, and I enjoyed it from start to finish. I should like to write a page or two more about it but have not time.

106 miles

1898

Monday August 1 – Bank Holiday

Was one of the most perfect Bank Holidays we have had, for the weather was suitable for every kind of outdoor sport, calm, bright and warm – nay, hot. I did nothing all day and was more tired than as if I went to work. In the evening, I went to Marlow and into Quarry Wood and had a most happy evening. Frances came home from Arundel by road with Edward, and found it very warm.

30 miles

Tuesday August 2

Went to Sindlesham to see Mr Alnatt about a side of bacon. John and his family came this evening. He has let his house for a month.

6 miles

Wednesday August 3

John and I, after tea, went to Burchett’s Green for a little bicycle ride and had a pleasant two hours out.

20 miles

Thursday August 4

I did the journey on the bicycle, and had a run round Hurst after supper and heard the owl at Bill Hill.

28 miles

Sunday August 7

A very wet and cold day. Terry went for his holidays.

Tuesday August 9

John left for a tour round the coast on his bicycle. I did the journey.

Wednesday August 10

Had a heavy thunderstorm at 1 o’clock. Cleared up and I went to Binfield and Waltham and B. Green in the evening, taking Edward with me, and we had a nice pleasant ride of 22 miles.

Thursday August 11

Got round the journey early, and after doing the booking, and having a supper, I went somewhat the same course as I did last night on the bicycle.

22 miles

Saturday August 13

I had a splendid day for the journey, and did not start much before 12 o’clock, so as to get the evening for the ride home. Took the boy, Colyer, with me, and enjoyed the day’s outing. Before going, I did the week’s booking. Edward spoke to me this evening.

Sunday August 14

A beautiful, bright sunny day, so I went to Marlow and Henley before dinner and had a lovely ride. I left here at ½ past 10, and was at home at 5 past 1. I should have made very quick time to Marlow, for there was a nice breeze at my back, and the roads perfection, but between Marlow and B. Green, the indicator went wrong and hindered me a ¼ of an hour. The country looked very charming, especially the corn fields with the bright golden grain. I never saw the corn all round a better colour than it is this year. When I got home, Willie Neave had come, and just as we were sitting down to dinner, Redgie and Mr Colyer dropped in on the tandem, so we had a somewhat large and, I think, very pleasant dinner party. We all had tea on the lawn, and made a picturesque party. At 5 o’clock, Willie Neave, Henry and I left for Wycombe. We went via Binfield, where I mended a puncture for Willie, and on through Maidenhead and the villages of the stream. At Wycombe, we had a liquer up, and pushing up the hill, we had a grand run to Marlow and home. It was a most pleasant and enjoyable spin. It was a beautiful evening, and the bicycle went easy and fast. We heard the owl at Bill Hill. It was just 40 miles round.

33 + 40 = 73 miles

Wednesday August 17

We had a grand evening and a nice ride. Leaving at 5, Henry and I made our way to Mortimer via Finchampstead, where I delivered a jug of cream at the rectory. From Mortimer, we went by the Royal Oak to Sherborne and Bramley, thence to Sherfield, where we had a glass of ale, and home via Heckfield and Eversley. We were 3¾ hours gone, and had a ½ hour stoppage, which gave 3¼ hours for the 42 miles, and we did not unduly hurry anywhere. We enjoyed the evening’s ride more than usual. We saw one of the most gorgeous sunsets we ever saw. It was very pleasant to see the harvest operations and the field of bright corn and the green fields of turnips.

42 miles

Friday August 19

Mr Terry came back last night. Got the orders done early, and at 7 o’clock I started off for Odiham, which took me 54 minutes to get to the bridge. There was quite a SW wind against me, which, when I turned for Dogmersfield, just did put me along, and I had a very fast run to Hartley Row via Pilcot. At Hartley Row I ran over a dog, or rather against it, but did no damage to me or the bicycle. Got home at 9.10 so that I was not more than two hours doing the 28 miles. It was quite a nice ride.

28 miles

Sunday August 21

A very bright and hot day with a strong N wind. I spent nearly the whole of the day cleaning the bicycle ready for a journey to Brighton tomorrow. We spent a nice day at home and had tea on the lawn. Henry called in to see if I was going for a ride, but as I had made up my mind for Brighton tomorrow, I did not go. As night came on, dark clouds gathered round the horizon and there was continual lightning, and it looked very much like a change of weather, so I gave up the Brighton idea for tomorrow.

Monday August 22

I looked out at 3 o’clock, and there was a strong wind blowing and the sky very overcast, so I gave up any thought of going today. But as the day turned out, it looked like just the one for the job, and I was half sorry I did not go. I went for a run in the evening to Waltham and was glad I had not the journey home from Brighton, for it came over very stormy looking and a little rain fell, which made me hasten home again.

14 miles

Tuesday August 23

Would have done, but Henry and Kemp had arranged to go their Puttenham walk, so I put mind off for tomorrow, but…

Wednesday August 24

…would not do. It was dull and cloudy, and very windy in the morning, and bright afterwards, but still very windy. Towards the evening, the weather looked more settled and the wind went down, so I got ready for tomorrow for the ride. Tom and I went to Henley, Marlow and back home across Maidenhead thicket and Waltham, and a very pleasant ride we had.

26 miles

Thursday August 25

Went to bed last night a little after ten and fell off to sleep. Woke at 12 and took a dose of the mixture and slept soundly until Bertha called me at 4 o’clock. We were soon up and while Bertha was getting the breakfast, I dressed, but first had a wash all over. Came down and had a very comfortable meal, and by 5 o’clock was ready to make a start. It was a beautiful morning – cloudy with every appearance of a bright day coming on. I felt well and cheerful, and left very comfortably and happy. At 5 past 5, I mounted the machine and directed my way to Guildford via the Crooked Billet, Crowthorne, Frimley, Ash and the Hog’s Back.

Never have I been so well repaid for waiting as I have this time. Had the weather been right I was not quite up to the mark Monday, while this morning, I feel A1. Last night the weather was piercingly cold, this morning it is just right, and I did not feel a bit chilly even in my light Holland jacket. I started off fresh and enjoyed the journey from the very first.

Round by Whateley’s it was lovely and so it was through the R. M. College grounds. The morning mist was just rising off the lake. I did not stop at Guildford. In fact, I did not make a dismount except to push up the ragged bit onto the Hog’s Back, until I got to Crawley. There I called in for a drink and went straight away to Horsham, where I had a bottle of ginger ale and a sandwich, which carried me to Henfield, and one half bottle more put me into Brighton. It was a lovely run down in no mistake, and the roads until within five miles of Horsham were perfect. From there to Brighton, they were broken up a good deal in places, especially from Henfield. However, that made but little difference to the pace, for I kept up as near as possible 12 miles the hour all the way down. There was a quantity of corn to be carried, mostly cut. I was surprised at the fertility of the ‘downs’, for at the base of them were large fields of corn and turnips.

At Rowley the sun broke out and shone gloriously warm all the rest of the day, yet I arrived in Brighton cool, and as fresh than as if I had come down by rail. I put the bicycle up at the old place – the Clarence Yard in North Street. Sent a telegram home, and had my boots cleaned, and then a beautiful swim in the sea, which was just the right temperature. When I undressed, my clothes were not in the least damp, not even my belt. After dinner, I laid down on the beach and dropped off to sleep, and then at ½ past 2, I went up to the stables to get the bicycle, which I cleaned up, and at 3 I left for home via Shoreham and Steyning.

What wind there was, was with me coming down, and before I left Brighton, it got round to the SE which blew me home. It was horribly bumpy from Brighton to Shoreham, but from there they were lovely, broken up in places but always room enough, one side or the other left good. With the wind behind me, I bowled along at a terrific pace to Steyning. How lovely it was all round by Bramber and Beeding I shall not easily forget, and then the lovely and grand scenery too of great rolling downs close at hand, and in the distance. Without any attempt at pace, I came from Brighton to Horsham at 13 miles the hour.

I had a rattling good tea at Horsham for 7d, pot of tea, large, hot water, milk, two eggs and bread and butter, the cheapest tea I ever had. It would have been better for me had I not had it quite so strong, for it gave me the wind, and the trembles a little. I much enjoyed a walk round the town after tea, and was astounded at the oldness of the houses. The majority of them had large slats of stone for roofing, and those thickly mortared on. They had strong rafters to carry the enormous weight of one of these roofs. From Horsham I came home the same route as I came down. At Crawley, I had a brandy and soda, which cured the effects of the strong tea and put me right for the rest of the journey.

I thought when I was going down, from Shamley Green to Dorking, was nearly all downhill, and expected to some long rises to work up coming home, but instead of that it seemed downhill to Guildford, with the exception of one or two little sharp rises, up which I pushed for a few yards, and so did not strain or tire myself. At Guildford, I had a cup of Bovril which was just the thing, and that and two glasses of ale carried me home fresh and strong. I arrived home at ¼ past 10 and called at the shop to report myself. It was a grand ride home and I had daylight to Guildford. That piece looked very pretty as I entered it a few minutes before lighting up time. The town was lit with incandescent light and the shops had not closed, for it was not 8 o’clock yet. I never had such an easy ride. The worst part was from Horsham to Crawley, for, as I say, the tea rather upset me, and I did not feel quite right until I had the brandy and soda to counteract. I left Guildford in a very happy state of mind at a little past 8 and had a very easy ride via Normandy. The last stage I had to do at a quieter pace because of the darkness and quantity of foot passengers about.

Just as I was leaving Horsham, a hobnail ran into the tyre, but that caused me very little delay, for I mended it in five minutes. Otherwise I had no trouble with the machine, and it carried me splendidly and well. How it escaped being punctured I know not, for there was 60 miles of loose or partly loose road to go over, and miles of fine broken flint. But it carried me over these millions of points and not one entered the tube.

The last 30 miles of the country, they have not had the recent rains we have had, and they were crying out for wet. As regards the weather, I could not have had it better. It was cloudy until Rowley, but not dark or cold, and no sign whatever of rain. Then the sun broke out, and remained out until it set. The evening was clear starlight with a little piece of the new moon, and was warm. There has not been so good a day for the journey, taking all things into consideration, all the year through. It was a grand idea going Thursday, for whenever I had to put out a little extra power up some of the hills, I congratulated myself that it was no worse than as if I were at home jumping up and down on the cart. I hope to look back with a great deal of pleasure upon this ride of 137 miles.

Friday August 26

Had a nice day in the shop and a good lot of orders. Terry brought home from the journey a cheque of £63.0.0 from Mr Sugden in settlement of his account, and this all helped to make it a happy day.

Saturday August 27

Went to tea at Louisa’s as usual, and found Mr Woodrow there. Went to bed tonight fresher than usual.

Sunday August 28

Was a very windy day, though bright and hot. I went for a ride to Littlewick and home by Waltham before service, and then to Chapel and heard Mr Woodrow much to my liking. After tea, I went to the Monument via Eversley, thence to Sherfield and Rotherwick, Newnham, Odiham, round Dogmersfield and Elvetham, and home through Eversley. It was against the wind to Sherfield, and from there, home, with it. A very nice evening run.

22 + 36 = 58 miles

Tuesday August 30

A beautiful morning, but as it advanced, the wind got up until, in the afternoon, it was a perfect hurricane from the west. Having made up my mind to go to Newbury, I went in spite of the gale. I left here at 3 o’clock, and got to Reading better than I expected, but from Reading to Newbury it was directly in the teeth of the gale, and along that open road, it blew with terrific force. However, by dint of application, I plodded on and reached Newbury quite as quickly as I thought I should. The first 12 miles took just the hour, but the last 12, an hour and a ¼. I had a very comfortable tea at the Guildhall Coffee House in a room overlooking the river, and sipping the fragrant cup. I came home across the common at a terrific pace, but drew in for the narrow road to Brampton and Aldermaston. I had a glass of ale at Mortimer, and another at Eversley. It was a lovely run home, and one which I enjoyed much. The going down was an experience and just showed what I could do against a furious gale. The road down was good and hard with the exception of a few loose places, and the roads back perfect. It was 24½ miles there and 28½ back.

53 miles

This makes 274 miles during the last 7 days, which s the longest week’s ride I have done, and I only rode four days of it. Thursday was a good day, but all the rest very bad, for cycling, being so very windy.

Wednesday August 31

John and I went for a ride this evening, intending to go round Elvetham, but at Hartley Row his handle bar broke off and threw him but did no harm beyond the handle breaking. We took it to the cycle repairers at Hartley Row and borrowed a handle bar and rode home all right. It was fortunate it was not a serious affair.

20 miles

1898

Thursday September 1

I did the journey on the bicycle and had a warm day. I forgot to say Henry and Millie started off yesterday morning for a trip to North Devon.

20 miles

Sunday September 4

To Chapel in the morning and heard Mr Scorey. In the evening round Heckfield, Sherfield, Newnham, Odiham, Elvetham and home. A very warm day.

35 miles

Wednesday September 7

Mr Ducrocq got up a party of about 40 to go to [illegible word] Park and have tea there. Bertha, Frances, Hilda, and I went, also Edward. Bertha and Hilda rode in a break while the rest of us went on bicycles. It was a very nice little turn out and I think they all enjoyed it. It was a splendid warm day for the job. We were home in good time, something before 8.

14 miles

Thursday September 8

I did the journey on the bicycle, and had the hottest day of the year for the job. Some say it was the hottest day we have had for 50 years. I got on very well and did not feel oppressed with it.

20 miles

Sunday September 11

To Chapel this morning and heard Mr Cave, who has just returned from his holidays. John and I had a nice little run after tea to Hartley Row, Elvetham, along the Flats to Blackwater and home via Yateley, a run which we both enjoyed. It was a beautiful evening, and things looked pretty.

26 miles

Monday September 12

Frances went to Odiham, leaving here a little before 9 to go on the canal with George Sale and his young lady. She did not get back before ¼ to 9.

Wednesday September 14

Henry, Frances, Edward and I had a turn on the canal at Odiham this evening. We left about 4 and were on the water a little after 5, and went up the canal as far as the Barley Mow. The water was very low, so much so that Edward could not row, so I took the oars for a couple of miles and then Frances towed us the remainder of the distance out. Coming back, Henry and I towed it all the way to Odiham. We had a very pleasant ride home in spite of the bad roads, which were very bad in places.

26 miles

Thursday September 15

I did the round on the bicycle.

20 miles

Sunday September 18

To Chapel in the morning. After tea, I took some lemons to Warbrook. I only went round Eversley because the roads were broken up so.

13 miles

Tuesday September 20

Had another run to Newbury this afternoon. It was a very nice afternoon but a little more wind than I wanted, for like last time, it was West, that is dead against a run to Newbury. However, I got there in 2 hours and 5 minutes (24½ miles). Had tea at the Guildhall Coffee House in the same room as last time, and enjoyed it. I left Newbury at 6 and came home via Brampton, Aldermaston and Mortimer, and had a very good ride home. I should have enjoyed it more, only I had one of my old kind of headaches.

54 miles

Wednesday September 21

Had a capital run this evening and enjoyed it very much. When I started off, I felt anything but fit, and was afraid I should not like the ride, but that passed off and I had, as I say, a most enjoyable ride. Frances, Edward and I went. We took the road to Bracknell and thence to the Crispin at Winkfield, then by the side of the Park to Virginia Water and home via Ascot etc. The roads were in capital condition nearly all the way, vastly deal better than I expected to find them. The evening was very pretty and all together it was a capital little run of 25 miles.

Friday September 23

Bertha and I took a walk after tea to Limmer Hill and Bearwood, but I did not enjoy it as I ought, for I had a cold coming on and felt out of sorts. We went to the Watford family handbell ringers in the Hall in the evening – very poor.

Sunday September 25

Was in bed with a cold, and altogether out of sorts.

Monday September 26

Should have taken Bertha to Rowley today had I not been in bed yesterday.

Tuesday September 27

Bertha and I went by the 8.51 to Guildford and then by the next train to Shalford. From there, we walked to Rowley and Lord’s Hill to Shamley Green, where we had our lunch. After that, we took a walk through the woods intending coming out at Wonersh, but I missed my way and got lost, and eventually got back to Rowley, and then to Bramley in time for the 4.5 to Guildford, where we had tea and home by the 6.2. The day was tolerably good up to 1 o’clock, but from that time it was cloudy and dull, and on the whole about as indifferent a day as we have had for a month. However, Bertha enjoyed it very much, and I should have more, but I am still out of sorts and have a nasty cold about me. We found Lord’s Hill stores and the whole of the people being gone to Chapel for the day to Loxwood, and shut up the place. We bought one or two things at Shalford for the children.

Wednesday September 28

Having a bad cold and not feeling well I did not go out. Frances and Edward went to New Mill tea meeting.

Thursday September 29

Did the journey on the bicycle and got on very well until 6 o’clock, when it came on to rain, and I had a wet time from Seymour’s. Mr Chas Vass died. He cut his throat a week ago. We had a good heavy rain all night. This is the first we have had for a month, and more fell than during the previous three months put together.

20 miles

1898

Sunday October 2

Was a grand day, so I went for a ride round Marlow and Henley before dinner and found the roads had undergone a marvellous transformation, Thursday’s rain having changed them from being broken up and unrideable, to excellent, nicely cemented over and smooth nearly all the way. It was a very pretty ride, the sun shone bright and warm, and the country looks as if it had sprung into new life. Had an early tea and then Henry and I went to Eversley, Yateley, Darby Green, along the Flats to Hartley Row, thence to Pilcot and Elvetham and up on to the Flats again and along them to Yateley and so home. This also was a pretty ride. We got home at ½ past 6.

62 miles

Monday October 3

Was a grand day again, better even than yesterday, so Henry and I took advantage of it and had an early tea, and did the Marlow and Henley trip. We left at ½ past 4, and had one of the nicest runs we have had for a long time. It was a beautiful afternoon and evening, the sun shone bright up to the time it set, and the evening was quite warm and balmy, although the wind was in the NE. I enjoyed the day’s run much better than yesterday’s, and that is saying a lot.

32 miles

Wednesday October 5

Not being suitable for cycling, I spent the afternoon in the garden and took up all the geraniums and potted them. After tea, I made a new house for the squirrel, a little larger than the old one.

Sunday October 9

A nice morning so I went for a ride to Yateley, Blackwater and along the Flats to Hartley Row, and was going on to Pilcot, but after getting up the hill out of Hartley Row, it began to rain, so I turned for home. It soon left off and I gathered some blackberries. By the time I got to Finchampstead, the rain commenced again and I had it quite wet the rest of the way home. Just as we were sitting down to dinner, Colyer and Redgie came on the tandem, so, with them, and Mr Terry and Edward, we had a large party to dinner, which was a particularly good one today – roast loin of pork, baked potatoes, onions, cauliflower etc. I went to Chapel in the evening. Mr Colyer and Redgie left at 8.30. The rain gave over about an hour ago. The night is very dark and a fog is rising, so I fear they will have rather an uncomfortable ride home. We had a very good day altogether.

25 miles

Monday October 10

Went to Reading to have my teeth repaired by the 11.20. Came back by the 1.30 and down again by the 5 to fetch the teeth, which were all ready. Bought a watch 6/6 at Botley’s for the bicycle and came back by the 6.20. As one of the trustees of [illegible word] Charity, I attended at the Lecture Room to get it transferred to [illegible word]. There was only Mr Cave, Mr Sale, Mr Morley and myself there.

Tuesday October 11

Cleared the window and re-set it out with cards. Letting down the vinegar barrels into the cellar, the rope broke when letting down the last. The barrel jammed at the foot of the stairs, but with a lever, I got it out alright.

Wednesday October 12

There was a sale yesterday by Mr Watts at the bank and Henry bought two houses on the Terrace for £660. In the evening, Edward, Frances and I on the bicycles to Yorktown, a nice ride.

25 miles

Thursday October 13

I did the journey and the horse went down at Sunnyside.

Wednesday October 26

Edward and I to Ascot to look up Longhurst. Then to the Lecture Room.

15 miles

Thursday October 27

Did the journey on the bicycle. Nice day.

Friday October 28

To Reading by the 12.4 to see Barnum’s Show. Did not think much of it. Had a nice day.

1898

Tuesday November 1

Was a very pretty day. I had a run round Hurst before dinner and enjoyed it very much. The roads were in excellent condition.

Wednesday November 2

The first day of the Fair, but they could not show, for it is a terrible wet day with a strong gale, so that they could not put up their tent. I have scarcely known a greater contrast than between yesterday and today. Then it was gloriously fine and warm. Now it is terrifically windy and cold.

Thursday November 3

Did the journey with the horse and cart. Went to the Fair in the evening and into Biddall’s menagerie, and was very well pleased with it. The Fair was held in Martin’s meadow.

Sunday November 5

A beautiful fine day. After tidying up at home, I went round for Willie Neave and he and I went for a very enjoyable and pretty ride to Hartley Row and round by Elvetham. Willie was delighted with the scenery, and well he might be. The sun shone quite warm and made us perspire. After tea, I went round Hurst, and that also was a very nice little ride. The roads after Finchampstead were quite muddy in places, for on Saturday afternoon they had a very heavy rain for a ¼ of an hour while we, here, had none. Round Hurst, they were dry and very smooth going. Redgie came in just as we had done tea, while Mr Colyer went on to Reading on the tandem alone. He called for Redgie while I was at Chapel so I did not see him.

30 miles

Monday November 7

A very nice morning again, so I arranged with Tom and Henry to go to Marlow this afternoon at 3 o’clock. We had a cup of tea at Tom’s and were off a little after 3 and had a very enjoyable ride to Marlow. It would have been better if the sun had been out more. We did not stop at Marlow but went through and away for Henley over some excellent roads. We had to light up at Henley, and take it steady home. Although the sun did not shine much, we had a very happy and enjoyable ride all the way round, and saw some vey pretty sights. Got home at ¼ past 6 and had another good tea at Tom’s.

32 miles

Tuesday November 8

This is the day we ought to have gone round Marlow and Henley, for it is like a summer day, bright, warm and clear.

Wednesday November 9

Had a lot of wet in the night, which has put riding today out of the question, so I did a little in the garden, and put the workshop tidy in the evening.

Thursday November 10

The anniversary of father’s death. I did the journey on the bicycle, and, although it was a very foggy day, I enjoyed it more than any other of the year I have had for the journey. Though the fog was so thick, it did not make the roads at all wet. In fact, they were in good condition. I had to come very steady home because I could not see the road at all, and the lamp only made matters worse. I got home all right, and had good and profitable day out, and enjoyed it.

20 miles

Saturday November 12

Mr Holmes called in and paid his rent.

Sunday November 13

Mr White, being Mayor again this year, the Corporation attended Chapel this morning. We had a very excellent service and all passed off well. It was a beautiful fine morning, which added to the cheerfulness of the service, and there was a good company present. Just before 10, I went round Hurst on the bicycle and enjoyed the pretty run very much.

8 miles

Monday November 14

Having done the booking on Saturday, I proceeded to make a counter for the centre of the shop. Mr Hawkins made the top. I got on well with the other part and got the frame all ready. I did not have much time at it, for I had to put up an order for Wixenford, and in the afternoon, Mr Terry went to Reading to have a tooth out.

Tuesday November 15

I finished the counter this evening and made a good job of it.

Wednesday November 16

Made a stand for the bacon in front of the counter.

Thursday November 17

Did the journey on Frances’ bicycle because it had mud guards on. I had a very nice day out, which would have been better had I not had a headache. Yesterday, Frances had two teeth out at Reading. I bought a pretty dolly for Hilda at Hills, where Mr Halfacre used to live.

Sunday November 20

Went to Chapel and heard a very poor sermon preached by Mr Granger. I was going for a bicycle ride, but just as I was going to get ready, it began to rain. This was about 9 o’clock, and until 10 it kept on a little every now and again, so I put it off for the afternoon, which turned out bright and sunny, and I had a very enjoyable and exceedingly pretty ride to the Seven Stars and back. There is still an abundance of leaves on the trees, and the varied tints were charming. They are in splendid condition, and this afternoon was as good for cycling as a summer’s day. At Ruscombe, I saw a large flock of peewits circling about, which was a pretty sight. I met, as I was coming home along the Reading road, Mr Colyer on the tandem going to Reading, so I expected to find Redgie at home, and was not disappointed.

16 miles

Monday and Tuesday November 21&22

Worked hard at the new counter and finished it.

Wednesday November 23

Tom and I went to London by the 8.13, a cheap train, to see the Stanley and National Bicycle Shows. We went first to the Agricultural Hall. From Waterloo, we took the electric railway to the Mansion House, and then walked a little way and took a train to the Hall. Before going in, we had a sausage and a cup of coffee each. There were a great many exhibits, and though we stayed until ½ past 3, we did not see all. I bought a waterproof cycling suit for 11/6 at Piggot’s stand. Coming out, we had more coffee and sausages, and then by bus to Holborn, and by the 4.8 train to the Palace. There was no 3^rd and so we had to go 2^nd, which was 2/-. We had a very nice time at the Palace. It was a gorgeous show, and much more there than we had time to see.

We left by the 7.40 and caught the 8.23 from Clapham Junction home. The weather was wretched. Rained all day and very cold, but this did not interfere with our pleasure, for we were in the dry all the time, and I had a pleasant and most enjoyable day out. I did not get tried or have any ailment whatever. It was very nice in the Palace, for it was a magnificent show and brilliantly illuminated all over. There was nothing startling at either show – no new things except in brakes. In fact, the papers say this will be known as ‘The Brake Show’. We got home before 10 o’clock, and were well pleased with our day’s outing.

Thursday November 24

I had arranged with Mr Terry to do the journey because I had a lot of shop fitting to do, and am glad I did, for it was a very wet day. I got on well with my work and finished the shop by working a little late.

Sunday November 27

I took Hilda and Cecil Barkshire for a pleasant walk round Limmer Hill in the afternoon.

1898

Thursday December 1

I did the journey on the bicycle. Davis went round with the horse and had it down by Helsey’s. It was a nice day out.

20 miles

Sunday December 4

I was going to Earley this afternoon, but it came over windy and wet and so I had to abandon the job.

Wednesday December 7

I went to Reading by the 6.40 and to the theatre to see The Geisha, a very pretty piece, and I enjoyed it and came home less tired than I started.

Thursday December 8

Did the journey on the bicycle and had a nice day for it.

20 miles

Sunday December 11

To Chapel in the morning. Redgie and Colyer came down on the tandem to tea, and back home at 7 o’clock.

Thursday December 15

Had a splendid day for the journey and enjoyed it. The weather was bright and warm.

20 miles

Friday December 16

Went over to N. Court to see about a cheque I had mislaid of theirs.

8 miles

Sunday December 18

I had £80 of change to take to St Neots and also a large [illegible word] of bacon, so being a nice morning, I took it over on the bicycle. The weather made it heavy going there. After a talk with Mrs Burrows, I went round to Warbrook to see Mr Fuller about an oil stove. There I had a brandy and soda, and a look over the house, then it was on to Mrs Warner’s and a chat with them, then up to Mr Spratley’s and a long talk there, then I went into Bramshill Park and back to North Court to let Mrs Leggett know I had found the cheque Saturday night. It was a lovely morning, like summer. The sun shone so warm I could have done with a shade. The roads were very good, except in places, and there was scarcely any wind and I had a lovely morning out and got home just right for dinner. Before tea, I went round Hurst, but the road home was very heavy and I did not much like the ride.

28 miles

Thursday December 22

Had a beautiful day for the journey, clear and bright, and coming home, frosty. I got round very well indeed.

20 miles

Friday December 23

Of course was very busy with the orders and the Xmas boxes. However, things went along well, and by 10 o’clock I had finished. A beautiful day, clear and frosty.

Saturday December 24

The weather today has quite altered, being damp and inclined to drizzle. I got the cart off well, and quite as early as usual. In the shop we had the slackest Saturday we have had for months. There has been scarcely any Christmas trade this year – not a single thing. [Illegible word] and [illegible word] have been quite a dead [illegible word], so also have cakes, not so many selling as ordinary times.

Sunday December 25 – Xmas Day

A bright morning, but very windy. I was going for a run with Willie Neave, who came down yesterday, but it was too windy. After dinner, it came over dull, cold and tempestuous, so could not have a ride. Went to Chapel morning and evening, Mr Cooper in the morning and a Mr Jones in the evening. Altogether it was a miserable kind of day. Frances is at Arundel, having gone with Edward and Mr Geo Sale on Thursday.

Monday December 26

There was a terrific hurricane on all day and increased towards night. I tidied up the garden and mended Willie Neave’s bicycle in the morning, and afternoon and evening cleared out the lean to. Another bad day

Tuesday December 27

We closed again today, which was a worse day than yesterday. There is a terrific gale still on and rain with it. I was at work doing the lean to all day and did nothing in the evening. This is about as bad a Xmas as I have ever had without any calamity or terrible happening to make it so.

Thursday December 29

Mr Terry came back this morning, but Davis is knocked over with his old complaint and cannot come to work. Fortunately, it being wet again, Colyer is able to come up and take the few parcels out. I did the journey on the bicycle, having sent the goods by carrier yesterday. I have had an opportunity of testing the [illegible word] I bought at the Show, for it is very wet and also windy, but not being cold, I quite enjoyed my day’s round and did it more comfortably than I have for a long time.

20 miles