1899

Sunday January 1

The year opens dark and dirty. To Chapel and L.S. in the morning and to Mrs Walden’s in the evening. Bertha was taken very bad in the night and was in great pain.

Monday January 2

Mr George Nicholls, a friend of Frances, came today. Bertha was in bed all day.

Wednesday January 4

I sent the goods by the carrier. Yesterday I went to Reading and bought a new ledger – 7/6.

Thursday January 5

Bertha had a very bad night and so we sent for Dr Ward this morning. I did the journey on the bicycle. It was a lovely bright and mild day, but I was more tired than on the rough wet one of last Thursday. The roads are very bad now everywhere.

Friday January 6

I was going over to see Mr Yeomans about a horse, but calling in at the White House, Mr Brown told me that which decided me not to go any further, so I turned home again. Bertha in great pain.

8 miles

Sunday January 8

Poor Bertha very bad and in great pain all day. I went to Chapel morning and evening. There was a united L.S. after the evening service which was well attended.

Wednesday January 11

Had a bad cold. Berth still very bad. I went by the 6.45 to Reading and to the theatre to see the pantomime ‘Sinbad the Sailor’. I had a comfortable seat in the upper circle, and witnessed a very excellent pantomime, and enjoyed it as well as I could with a bad cold. There was some very pretty singing and some excellent acting.

Thursday January 12

Did the journey on the bicycle. It was the roughest day we have had for years. The rain kept off until about 12 o’clock, when down it came with a perfect hurricane of wind. As I sat in the White Hart, it blew through a crack in the glass of the window in a fine spray onto the table. I did not stay for it but faced the tempest, only fearing lest a tree or the branch of a tree might fall upon me. People were very sympathetic and all hoped I should get home safely, and most advised me to turn at once for home and leave the journey. However, I stuck to it and I think I enjoyed the day more than I have for many a Thursday, and had it not been that I had a bad cold and did not feel well when I started, I should have thoroughly enjoyed the round. As it was, my cold got better as I went along and by the afternoon I felt quite well and fresh. Had a very enjoyable tea at Lady Glass’. With all the drenching rain, I did not get wet under the mackintosh anywhere. I got home at 7 o’clock.

Now this was the roughest day we have had since the Tay Bridge was blown down, and about this part, rougher than then. Branches were strewn all along the roadway. At the White House, four large elm trees were blown right across the road, and one at the Woodlands, another at Wixenford smashing the gate. Mr Perkins had a chimney stack blown down, and the roof was blown off Sparvell’s slaughter house, besides many other casualties in the town. Friday morning’s paper contained columns of disasters. A train was overturned at one place. Three elms were down in Ellisons Park.

20 miles

Thursday January 19

Had another very windy and wet day for the Eversley round, almost as bad as last week. However, I got round all right and enjoyed the day out very well. The roads were in a sticky state of mud and loose gravel. I wondered how the bicycle stood it. I saw Mr White at the White Hart and I struck a bargain with him for his horse.

20 miles

Friday January 20

Mr White drove over and left his horse and took ours away.

Sunday January 22

As a Mr Summers was preaching at our place, I went to the New Church in the morning and enjoyed the service there.

Tuesday January 24

Went to a lecture upon Italy, given by Mr Wicks in the Hall. It was the same lecture he gave last year for the Mutual Improvement Society, but this time it was for the Science and Art Class.

Wednesday January 25

There was a frost last night and the roads today are hard, so I went for a ride round Hurst before tea and enjoyed it.

8 miles

Thursday January 26

A very nice bright cold day but I did not enjoy it any more than some of the rough days I have had for the journey. I certainly enjoyed the ride home, for it was brilliantly moonlight and very pretty.

20 miles

Friday January 27

Went for a ride round Hurst before tea, but the roads had thawed a little and it was not so nice going as on Wednesday.

8 miles

Sunday January 29

Wet again

1899

Wednesday February 1

Went to another of Mr Wick’s lectures in the Town Hall. It was very much the same as we have had before.

Thursday February 2

Had a nice day for the journey. The roads were quite hard coming home, and it was very pretty, being full moon and frosty.

20 miles

Sunday February 5

Ever since Wednesday it has been frosty and the roads are in capital condition, or were, for today, as every other Sunday, is wet.

Tuesday February 7

Went to the pantomime ‘Blue Beard’ at Reading and enjoyed it very much indeed.

Thursday February 9

Went with the horse and cart.

Sunday February 12

As usual, a wet and windy day.

Monday February 13

Mr Davis, a Post Office surveyor for Watts and myself, went over Osborne House to see about adapting it to the requirements of the Post Office. We got on very well indeed. Mr Watts took a general plan of the place.

Thursday February 16

Had a lovely day for the journey. The wet weather ended up with a very wet Wednesday afternoon and chilly, and this morning the place is washed totally clean and the roads out of the town drying fast. As I say, I had a lovely day. The sun shone, and the air was balmy and warm, and the birds sang almost as well as they do a month or so later. I had nothing to trouble me. I felt well, and I thoroughly enjoyed my day out. It was moonlight for coming home.

20 miles

Friday February 17

Another very nice day. After tea, I went round Hurst, and enjoyed it very much. It was warm and summer like, and the birds were on strong in song.

8 miles

Sunday February 19

Began a little misty but cleared off and came out a lovely day, I suppose a better day than was ever known in February. Edward and Ben Kirkby went to Crookham to their friends the Jessetts. I had some change to take to Mr Pent at Finchampstead rectory, so I went that way for a morning ride, and from there to Bramshill House and the Monument, and home via Barkham. Though I did not hurry, I was all of a sweat by the time I got to the rectory. The sun shone down like summer. I enjoyed the ride, and well enough I might, for I had nothing to trouble about, and the weather was marvellous for the time of year. At Swallowfield I came across Mr Ben Hill and had a chat with him. The roads Barkham and Swallowfield way are excellent this year, not a bad patch between here and the second Bull. Bertha is much better today, and sat at the open window for an hour and a half this morning. Went to Chapel this evening.

22 miles

Tuesday February 21

A nice clear bright day, but cold, for there is a strong east wind on. I had a run round Hurst after tea, and although it was cold, I enjoyed the ride. It looked colder than when I came round last Friday. Then it was like summer, now more like March.

8 miles

Wednesday February 22

At 3 o’clock, Henry and I left for Odiham and had a fine ride over there on excellent roads. The sun shone bright and warm, and as we got over there in less than an hour, we were quite warm enough. We put up at the Angel and ordered tea, and while it was preparing, we took a stroll round the town and into the Church. We had a very good tea, but it would have been more comfortable had there been a fire. We left Odiham about 6 o’clock and had a most glorious ride home round Dogmersfield. It was one of the prettiest moonlight nights I have been out in, and we enjoyed it to the full. We got home at ½ past 7, and then I went to the lecture room to our annual meeting and heard some very good speeches, especially the one from Mr Hayes, a missionary from the Congo. I enjoyed this Wednesday half holiday more than any for a long time. It was such a beautiful night.

28 miles

Thursday February 23

Had a glorious day for the journey, so when I finished at Lady Glass’, I went on to Yateley and Blackwater and home through the College grounds and Crowthorne. It was a grand ride, and I never saw the lake look so enchantingly beautiful as it did by moonlight this evening. It was the grandest water and moonlight effect I have ever seen, and greatly was I pleased I came this way so as to see this beautiful sight. The lake appeared miles in extent, and the island and the trees and the mountains round about made a picture that it would be foolish to attempt to describe. The College all lit up, too, looked very fine, and all together a sight to be remembered.

28 miles

Friday February 24

After tea I took Tom’s bicycle over to Eversley for W. Townsend to see, but when I got there, he had already got one from Edwards. Coming back, I called in at Mr Sparvell’s and had a pleasant chat there. Again, it was a lovely day and moonlight night, and I very much enjoyed my ride.

12 miles

Sunday February 26

Was another very nice day. I went to Chapel in the morning. Ernest Sale, on his way from Aldershot to Mr Geo Sale, called in at our place and went to service with us. At 3 o’clock, Henry and I left for Alton via the old route of Odiham and South Warnborough. The roads were good all the way, and the weather beautifully clear and sunny, and we had a lovely and very enjoyable ride over there. We could not get tea at our usual place, so went to the Welcome Temperance place, and there had two eggs each and bread and butter and two cups of tea for the sum total of one shilling. We sat there til 6 o’clock and then made for home the same way we came and got home in two hours and thoroughly enjoyed the ride both ways. Arriving at the top of Star Hill, the moon got up to meet us, and very red and pretty she looked too. Though there is nothing out yet, the sunshine quite made up for that.

44 miles

Monday February 27

I bought a truck off Mr Thrift for 10/- and commenced to do it up.

1899

Wednesday March 1

Had an early tea and then Henry and I, at ½ past 4 left for Bagshot. The road all the way from Star Lane to Easthampstead Church is freshly gravelled, and compelled us to walk a great deal. We stopped to admire the prettily laid out garden in front of the Union there, and then went on hoping the Bagshot road would be good, but, alas, that too was gravelled as bad as the lanes, and we could do nothing but walk, so we turned down to the left along the drive to Swinley, and a very, very pretty drive it is too, and the road was excellent. We were very much struck with the magnitude of the brick works at Swinley, which I understand belongs to Lawrence. This brought us out at the Lodge on the Bagshot road. The road to Sunningdale was excellent, but from where we struck the London road until Ascot was gravelled in many places and quite unrideable. It was only last week the gravel was laid, and a pretty mess it will be all the year. We nevertheless enjoyed our evening out, for we were not in a hurry or disposed for a long ride.

24 miles

Thursday March 2

I had a good day for the journey, as far as the weather was concerned, but having a slight headache, could not enjoy it so well as I should like to have.

20 miles

Friday March 3

I went to see Mr Sugden this morning, and went and came back by the Nine Mile Ride way. It was a grand morning and very pretty. I saw, sitting on the ground and cooking his dinner, the blasphemous old Fuller, who used to come round Eversley when I lived there. He told me he is 91 years of age, being born in the year 1808. If that is the case, he is a wonderful old chap.

12 miles

Saturday March 4

Willie Neave came down yesterday, and he and Edward went for a ride this morning. The day was bright but very cold with an easterly breeze. I went round the Flats run after tea, and liked it very well

20 miles

Wednesday March 8

Monday and Tuesday were very nice days and would have done well for a ride, but I was busy doing up the truck and could not go. Today was threatening and at 6 o’clock, it came on to rain, so I stopped at home and painted the truck.

Thursday March 7

Had a lot of rain last night, but today is fine. I went the journey on the bicycle, but before going, I went to see Mr Watts, he having had the Post Office surveyor there yesterday, who brought down a plan of the alterations they would require, and that they would not go beyond £100 a year.

20 miles

Friday March 10

I told Mr Watts to ask £110 and to make a few suggestions respecting the alteration to Osborne House.

Sunday March 12

A very nice day, more spring like and mild. Heard a good sermon in the morning, a rest after dinner, and early tea and at half past 4, Henry and I left for the Mortimer and Bramley run. We went via Barkham, Swallowfield and Beech Hill, and that is a mile, or nearly two miles, nearer than the Eversley route. It was a very nice, calm, mild evening, and a most pleasant and enjoyable ride we had all round. The road from the College Arms to the White Hart at Sherfield was perfection, in fact there was but very little indifferent road all the way round. Of course, we had a liquer up at Sherfield, and came across someone connected with the Barkers of Eversley. The great feature of this run was the glorious sun and sunset. He was great ball of living fire, and seen through the fir plantations looked a grand sight.

39 miles

Monday March 13

After tea, Frances and I went for a ride to Billingbear, Waltham, Shottesbrook and on to the Bath road, and thence to Reading. I wanted two brushes at Fuller’s but they were shut up. We then went round and called for Edward at Long’s. I called in at Earley and had an hour there. It was a very pretty run all the way round. The setting sun was very fine all by Knowl Hill.

28 miles

Wednesday March 15

Henry and I had a beautiful ride today. We left here at 5 to 3 for Newbury, and went via Reading. The roads were good all the way, and although the wind, which was slight, was against us, we rattled down at a very good pace, for when we landed at Newbury Coffee Tavern, which was our first dismount, we had been 17 minutes under the two hours for the 24 miles. We did not hurry unduly, in fact we both enjoyed the ride more than we have for a long time for an afternoon. The sun shone and the air was balmy, quite spring like. The view on either side was very pretty, the hills on the right and the valley of the Kennet on the left. At the Guildhall, we were well served with tea, and after, we did a stroll round the town. At 6, we left for home via Brimpton and Aldermaston. We had a lovely ride right to Aldermaston over the perfection of roads and at a very fast pace.

At Aldermaston, I had a puncture, and as it would be lighting up time by the time we got to the top of the hill towards Mortimer, we pushed on to repair it up there. I soon found the puncture, but when I came to look for the repair outfit, it was not in the pouch. I had had it to repair Frances’ machine the other day, and had not put it back. This is the only time I have been out without it. Henry went down into the village to get a repair outfit, but nobody using pneumatics there except one young man, and he had only a part of an outfit with scarcely any solution. However, I managed to get out sufficient to just do the patch.

The road from here home via Mortimer is more or less gravelled, and so we turned back down to the village and struck for the Bath road and home via Reading. It was rattling good road and we had a very pleasant ride home, which we reached at 9 o’clock. It took at least ¾ of an hour for Henry to get the repair outfit at Aldermaston, and the stoppage through the puncture just about an hour. It was a most pleasant and enjoyable turn out, in spite of the delay, and we arrived home as fresh as when we started and feeling much the better for our afternoon ride of 51 miles.

Thursday March 16

Did the journey on Tom’s bicycle, and through it sold a lady’s machine of the same make to Miss Cotton at the Rectory.

20 miles

Sunday March 19

Was very cold and somewhat windy. Went to Chapel in the morning and for a ride in the evening to Eversley, Hawley, Cove, Fleet, Crookham, Pilcot, Hartley Row, Elvetham and home, and enjoyed the ride. The roads were good all the way.

30 miles

Wednesday March 22

Was quite an eventful day. First I went across to Mr Watts to see what I should say in answer to Mr Holmes’ letter respecting holding over Osborne House, and then I filled in the form to the Postmaster General offering Osborne House at a rental of £105 and to do the alterations required. In the afternoon, Mr Jelley, Mrs J and Harold dropped in and took me by surprise, for I had heard nothing of their intentions of coming. He has left Kettering and he brought down £95 and gave it to me to keep for him for a few days. In the evening I finished putting the truck together, and Miss Cotton’s bicycle came, and I ordered a pair of Dunlops for my machine and paid Tom for them £2.3.0.

Thursday March 23

Had a piercingly cold day for the journey. A considerable lot of snow fell between 12 and 2. However, I did not mind the rough weather, but keeping myself warm, I enjoyed the day as much as any Thursday for a long time.

20 miles

Saturday March 25

Miss Cotton came for her bicycle this afternoon. She paid me for it on Thursday when I was up at the Rectory. £8.3.0.

Sunday March 26

A missionary from the Congo gave us an outline of the work done there since the formation of that sphere 20 years ago. George Woods came yesterday to the shop, coming about tea time, and going back tomorrow via London, where he has some business to see to. We had to tea Mr Jelley, Mr Neave, who has left his place in London and is going to Bath to a situation there, and also Edward, Geo Woods, Philip Sale, Henry and I. Went for a walk in the evening, and then George came down to see Bertha.

Wednesday March 29

Being Good Friday week, I did the journey today on the bicycle, and had a very nice day and a good business one, and I thoroughly enjoyed the round. I bought off Mr H Vass a clock for 15/-.

20 miles

Thursday March 30

We had some rain this afternoon, which has spoiled the roads for tomorrow.

Friday March 31 – Good Friday

Was a very good day but not at all fitting for cycling. The roads were muddy. I did a little work in the garden and cleaned the bicycle. In the evening I went for a little run, but the roads were damp and, in places, muddy, so that it did not go well. I went to Eversley, up on to the Flats and home by Blackwater and Yateley.

20 miles

1899

Sunday April 2

Went to Chapel in the morning and to Guildford after tea. Henry did not turn out, reserving himself for tomorrow (Bank Holiday). I had an early tea and at a little after 4 left, making my way to Guildford via Hawley and the Hog’s Back. I had to stop a dozen times, going over to attend to the bicycle, first the gear case, then the saddle, so that it was ½ past 6 when I got to Guildford. I expected to see a large party of cyclists there, but did not see more than usual. I was there at the wrong time. I did not stay but came direct home via Normandy, Ash and Hawley. It was a dull evening and no sun, and I did not enjoy the run much.

45 miles

Monday April 3 – Bank Holiday

The morning was dull and misty, and so I did not hurry up to the shop, but did a little tidying up at home and then went up to see what Henry thought of doing, and by this time nearly 10 o’clock, it had come over brighter, so we arranged to go off for Lambourn as soon as we were ready. I went home and got so, and got Edward to go with us.

We started at ¼ to 11 and got to Reading at 12 miles the hour against a strong west wind. The road was thronged with cyclists of all descriptions all along, and there was one person on a General Ordinary who attracted the attention of everyone by his peculiar face and exceedingly eccentric manner of riding.

We passed through Reading and nearly to Pangbourne without a stop, but here my tyre punctured. I soon found the leak, but had a difficulty in making the patch stick properly. It was the old tyre, and I ought to have put the new ones on, but thought I would venture this time. The canvas was faulty and the inner tube blew through in a little head and so got punctured, and when I patched it, the patch also blew through, so I had to canvas the same place, and this took up more than a half hour, and the weather had come over dull and cloudy, and not at all unlike rain, so I decided to turn for home. I wanted Henry and Edward to go on, but they would not, so we all turned for home. We were none of us exactly sorry to do so, for the wind was very strong and against us, and would be more so from Streatley right to Newbury. We got home at ½ past 1. After dinner, I trimmed the creeper. For the mass of people, it has been splendid weather this Easter, but it did not suit us as far as bicycling was concerned. However, I would sooner had it so, for we can get out when we choose, and it is too early to thoroughly enjoy a day out at Easter.

25 miles

Tuesday April 4

Mr Jelley has taken some ground at Newbury and has gone there to live.

Wednesday April 5

A nice bright morning and I made up my mind for a good run this afternoon, but it came out dull, and the wind, which was strong, was now a tempest, so I finished the creeper instead of going out.

Thursday April 6

Had a nice day for the journey and enjoyed it. I put the new Dunlop tyres on my bicycle yesterday, and the machine went splendidly today. Mrs Sale, who has been nursing Bertha ever since the beginning of the year, went home today, and Bertha went for a drive.

20 miles

Sunday April 9

Was a nice fine morning but also came over wet for the afternoon.

Monday April 10

Set out the window with brooms and brushes.

Wednesday April 12

A beautiful morning and the roads are dried up. It came over directly after dinner. At ½ past 4, Henry and I left for Maidenhead. We went that way because the wind, which was strong, blew us there. From Maidenhead we went to Wycombe. It was a lovely ride over there, and much we enjoyed it. We did not stay there, but made at once for Marlow and had a capital run there. The wind steadied us down the long hill. At Marlow, we refreshed ourselves and came home by new moonlight, coming at ¼ to 9. This was quite a successful ride. I wore my new 12/9 suit.

41 miles

Thursday April 13

Had a showery day for the journey. Got on very well. Saw a swallow on Eversley Cross pond.

20 miles

Saturday April 15

Mr Terry went to the Crystal Palace to see the football match and had a very good day for it. I did the journey and had a heavy load.

Sunday April 16

Beastly cold and wet later on. Edward was going to Leatherhead to meet a friend, but the weather would not do. A good job he didn’t go, for it was very wet in the evening.

Monday April 17

Quite a nice day, the first one we have had this month. I went to Odiham and Dogmersfield after 6 in the evening and had a pleasant ride of 28.9 miles in 2.20. I went with the hope of hearing the cuckoo and nightingale but did not hear a sound of one. Had a strongish wind against me to Odiham. Carrie’s bicycle came. She came Saturday.

28 miles

Tuesday April 18

Went to Swallowfield and by the Monument and home via Eversley Cross after tea. When I got home, I finished repairing the tall steps and made a good job of them.

20 miles

Wednesday April 19

Was a splendid day. Henry took Carrie out. Frances, Edward and I started at ¼ to 5 for Swallowfield and Heckfield. When we got to the Monument, Frances was feeling tired, so she and Edward turned for home, and I went on and had a nice ride to Sherfield, Newnham, Odiham, Dogmersfield, Hartley Row, Elvetham, along the Flats to Blackwater and home via Yateley. It was a beautiful evening and I could not but enjoy it. I heard the cuckoo at Pilcot.

42 miles

Thursday April 20

Another splendid day, and I had quite a treat being out.

20 miles

Sunday April 23

My 50^th birthday, and had the weather permitted, I should have gone for a 50 mile ride, but the morning was unsuitable, and as the day advanced, the weather got worse until, at evening, it rained heavily. Edward went to Leatherhead and had to train it home from Guildford.

Monday April 24

I commenced taking down the shutters and putting up the rollers for outside blinds and got on very well with the job.

Wednesday April 26

Was windy and showery, and no chance for a bicycle ride, so I spent the afternoon finishing the roller blinds.

Thursday April 27

Had a capital day again for the journey and enjoyed it.

20 miles

Saturday April 29

Had Mr Davis, the surveyor, down, and from what I can gather from him I cannot think the Post Office will go to Osborne House. Nevertheless, I gave Mr Holmes notice to quit at midsummer.

Sunday April 30

Went to Chapel in the morning. Mr Collier came after dinner and stayed to tea. Henry and I went to Swallowfield, Sherfield, Newnham, Odiham, Dogmersfield, and home by Hartley Row. The roads were splendid, but the air was much too cool to be enjoyable. We heard several nightingales, but not well. The weather is not warm enough for them. We saw some swallows at North Warnborough, and these are all I have seen as yet, except the ones at Eversley Cross on the 13^th. The country is beginning to look very pretty.

30 miles

1899

Tuesday May 2

Was a very nice bright warm morning, so I made up my mind to go to Newbury, and accordingly, at ½ past 3, I left here with quite a wind from the N.W. which was decidedly against me to Reading, and more against me than for me to Newbury. The journey took me one hour and fifty minutes. I found the roads more bumpy than ever. It would be a splendid run were they smooth like our roads here.

I made at once for Mr Jelley’s. Asking a tradesman in the Market Place if he could direct me to Boundary Road, he asked which end, and when I told him the station end, asked me if I wanted the new cow dealer who resided there. Of course, this was the gentleman I wanted. He did not know where Oak Villas was, but knew Mr Jelley, who had been there but a month.

While I was at Newbury, the weather altered and came over dull and thick, and the wind changed to N.E., which was against me for the return home. I came over Crookham Common to Aldermaston and thence to the Reading road and home. I heard many nightingales along the Bath road, both going and coming home. Mr Jelley has five cows and seems to be making it answer very well. To thoroughly enjoy the journey home, it was much too cold and dull.

Wednesday May 3

The weather this morning was dull and very cold, with a North wind. I should not have thought of going out this afternoon, but Philip Sale wanted me to take him for a ride. So he came to my place to an early tea and then at 5, we started off. The weather greatly improved after dinner, so that it was now beautifully sunny and bright. We made our way for Hartley Row, and as the wind was in the North, it helped us along in fine style. Straight through Hartley Row, we bowled along at a rattling rate to Hook, and then we turned by the old camping ground, where we had a stop just to look at the old spot. Then to Greywell and Odiham and away to Dogmersfield, where we came across Frances and Edward, and also met the Farnham club coming to meet the Wokingham club at Odiham. We came home through Elvetham. We had a splendid run round and both Philip and I very much enjoyed the ride all the way. It was a much better evening than Sunday and not so cold. Still the wind was in the wrong direction for the songsters, and we heard but one nightingale.

34 miles

Thursday May 4

Had another good Thursday for the journey. I was on the lookout for the swifts all the time, but saw none. The wind was in the NE and cold, and though the sky was clear, it was too cold for them to appear.

20 miles

Friday May 5

Round Hurst after tea, but too cold to be enjoyable.

8 miles

Sunday May 7

Redgie and Mr Colyer came just as we were beginning dinner. I had a try on the tandem after tea with Mr Colyer, and going to the Finchampstead finger post and back. I went up for Henry, but he would not turn out because of the strong N. wind and cold, so I went by myself and had a lovely and most enjoyable ride. I went to Hartley Row, and as the wind was behind me, I continued on towards Basingstoke until I came to the Hatch Gate. This was 15½ miles from the Market Place, and it took me exactly the hour, not a quarter of a minute over. From there I turned for Mapledurwell and expected to find the wind troublesome, but it scarcely made any difference, and I had a lovely ride to Greywell and thence by Dogmersfield and Elvetham, getting home at 9 o’clock, having had a most enjoyable three hours ride. The weather was bright and cheerful, but a little cool coming home.

38 miles

Tuesday May 9

At a ¼ to 7 this evening, I started for a ride and went to Binfield, Shottesbrook, the Thicket and home by the Bath road. A pretty little ride. The weather is a little milder, the wind having got round a little to the West, and pretty nearly a calm.

21 miles

Wednesday May 10

Was a lovely bright warm day and calm. At 12 past 4, Henry and I started for Basingstoke via Hartley Row and had a very nice ride there, doing it in 1.15 1/2. Soon after leaving Basingstoke, a cold thick air came up from the East and enveloped the country in a thick dark pall, and entirely spoilt the evening, so that when we got to the Public House we were glad to turn to the Golden Pot and make for home. Everything now looked dull and uninteresting, and it was cold. We got home at ½ past 8 having had a disappointing evening ride.

45 miles

Thursday May 11

Another very nice day for the Eversley round. The sun shone bright and the air was SW, and the country looking very pretty now. I had nothing to trouble me, and I felt well and enjoyed my day round. I came home through Blackwater and the College grounds. From Yateley, I went by the lanes of Darby Green to Blackwater.

At the College, they were playing bicycle polo and I watched them for some time and was struck with the skill they manipulated the bicycles.

It was particularly pretty round by the Crooked Billet, and the roads this way home are good now.

28 miles

Friday May 12

A very nice mild day. Went round Hurst in the evening and heard many nightingales.

8 miles

Sunday May 14

A very nice morning, but the afternoon came on dull, windy and then rainy, so I could not go out, except to Chapel.

Monday May 15

Mr Barron is leaving, and when I went home to tea, Bertha told me Mr Chandler, the organist, had been over the house, so I, at once, called upon Mr Oades about it, and object. Went to Myer’s Circus in the evening and took Frances and Maud. A very good performance.

Tuesday May 16

Wrote to Mrs Englefield about letting the house next door to Mr Chandler.

Wednesday May 17

Mrs Englefield called upon us this morning, but I was not at home. Bertha saw her and was pleased with her. After tea, I called at Mrs Harris to see Mrs Englefield, who is staying there, and had a most satisfactory interview. At 6, I started for a ride and went to the Flats and thence to Blackwater, Bagshot and Bracknell and had a very nice ride. Frances and Edward went the same course by the opposite way, and we must have met in Bagshot, yet neither of us saw one another.

28 miles

Thursday May 18

Had a glorious day for the journey. Windy, but that I did not mind. Had a capital day’s business, a little marred by being 10/- short in my cash. I think I have left it at Mr Chandler’s. Went to Mr Cave’s lecture upon Cromwell at 8 o’clock.

22 miles

Saturday May 20

Rains, and does not look at all promising for a turn this Whitsuntide. Have got the bicycle all ready and fixed the new normative brake on.

Sunday May 21 – Whitsunday

Turned out a nice morning and it looked as if we had missed a good day by not getting ready for a two days outing, but after dinner it came over very thick from the SE and developed into a fine rain for the remainder of the day. Went to Chapel in the morning but not in the evening.

Monday May 22 – Whit Monday

Rained from 6 to 9 or 10 this morning and effectively dispelled any intention of going out, so I did a little in the garden and pottered about all day.

Tuesday May 23

Was fine this evening, so I went round Easthampstead and Broadmoor, leaving here about ¼ to 8. It was very pretty and when I got home, being fired now, I got Frances and Edward to come the same round, and again we had a very pretty moonlight ride, and we enjoyed it.

22 miles

Wednesday May 24

Rained heavily between 6 and 8 this morning. Although the weather was very threatening, Henry and I started for a ride this evening, intending going to Bagshot, but within a mile of that place, it began to rain, so we turned back and ran away from it. We overtook a bicyclist who had just come from Bagshot and Camberley and he had a very heavy rain there and was plastered with mud. We passed through Bracknell and went round Winkfield, Warfield and Bracknell and had a very pretty ride. Everything was so beautifully fresh and green.

25 miles

Thursday May 25

Had a nice fine day, but cold, and altogether a very nice day for the journey and I got on well and had a good day’s business. Brought home a squirrel from W. Mennings.

22 miles

Friday May 26

After 8, I went round Hurst and heard a quantity of nightingales, at which I was surprised, for it is very cold with a NE wind. I enjoyed the run round so much that after I got home and had done a little writing etc., called upon Tom, and had supper, I went round again between 10 and 11 o’clock and saw the moon rise. This was a most enjoyable little ride.

16 miles

Sunday May 28

The morning was clear, bright and sunny, and but little wind, so I went up to see if Henry would go with me to Haslemere. He was on, and we arranged to be off at 10, and it was only 10 minutes beyond that time when we left and made our way to R.M. College, where we were just in time to see the Church Parade and heard their band. We took matters easy and were soon on the Hog’s Back and bowling away for Puttenham, and down the lovely piece to Shackleford. At Milford, I turned to the right and got on the Hindhead road, but soon found out my mistake and turned back through Milford again and then to the right for Haslemere. This six miles to Haslemere is nothing but hills and very slow going. It is very pretty, and, in places, grandly so, but on the bicycle we had not time enough to look round. Had dinner at the Public House overlooking Shottermill Common, and enjoyed it very much. After dinner, we went up Hindhead and wandered about there and had a short rest, and at 20 to 4, we left for Compton. Had a lovely ride down Hindhead. There was a strong NE wind against us, which just steadied the pace and made it very comfortable riding down the hill with our feet up. Had tea at Compton and then a very nice run home via Ash and Hawley, reaching home at ½ past 7. Found Redgie at our place, he having come over from Reading on a 168 Gear, and as he was going back to London, and not liking the Ascot hills, I, after having a little bit to eat, took him to Maidenhead Thicket, where I turned at the Horse and Groom and had a lovely ride home via Waltham, This run was the easiest part of the day’s journey. After 9 o’clock this morning, the wind got up considerably until, at the middle of the day, it was quite strong.

96 miles

Monday May 29

I cleaned and set out the window on the provision side. Hearing there was an accident to a good’s train at Frimley, Mr Sims, P. Sale and myself, at 8 o’clock, went over to see it. It was one of the largest, if not the largest, train wrecks there has been. There was 28 trucks all broken up. It happened while going under Frimley road bridge. The truck hit against the side of the bridge and ran up the wall and knocked the parapet over, and broke through into the road. One guard was killed and the other taken off to the hospital. There was one mass of wreckage from end to end of the train.

16 miles

Tuesday May 30

Up at 6 and off at a ¼ past to Frimley to have a look at the train accident by day light, and a vast wreckage it looked. Heard from Mr Rushton that they had accepted the Osborne House scheme for the Post Office. Wrote to let Mr Holmes know. At 8, I left for Eversley to see Mrs Fulker about a cheque she wants for £149. I then went on to the scene of the wreck, and had a nice ride round.

38 miles

Wednesday May 31

Mr Terry went over this morning by train to see the accident, but during the night, the greater part had been cleared away. Philip Sale and I left for Newbury at 3.20 in glorious weather. As we were passing by the Pheasant, we saw a balloon descending, and it came down in a field close to us. We had a very pleasant ride to Newbury which occupied two hours, and at the Guildford Coffee House, we had a good tea. While Philip was looking round the town, I went up to see Eva, but I had not time to go up to the farm to see Mr Jelley. We left Newbury at ½ past 7 and had a grand and lovely ride home via Aldermaston. It is needless to record how pretty all the country looked. Henry came to meet us, and we met in the long piece before Mortimer. We came home by New Mill and heard the young owls. We got home at 10 past 10, having had a very happy enjoyable and easy run round. This is the first day of leaving off the under flannels, and very nice it is to do so too.

54 miles

1899

Thursday June 1

Another very nice day for the journey, which I enjoyed and got on very well.

22 miles

Friday June 2

Tom’s new bicycle came in Tuesday and he wants me to try it, so at a ¼ to 8, I started off on it to Barkham, Swallowfield, Beech Hill, Stratfield Saye, Sherfield and home by the Monument and Barkham. It was a lovely ride and so pretty. I came home from Sherfield in a little under the hour, and got home at 10 past 10 very pleased with the go of the machine. The country round the back of the Wellington Estate was lovely, and it was a beautiful evening.

30 miles

Saturday June 3

Mr Holmes came in to see me about when he was going to give up Osborne House.

Sunday June 4

Up at ½ past 5 and had a cup of cocoa and bread, and off at 6.20 for Hounslow. I did not feel very lively until I got to Windsor Park, and then that was so lovely and enchanting that it roused me up a bit, and from there I had a better eye for the country. Got to Eaton’s at 8.10 just in time to join them at breakfast, which they were having in the kitchen and with the sun shining on the garden and shaded from the window by the fernery. I cannot have had breakfast in a better place. After a pleasant meal, we had a look round the estate, and then prayers, by which time it was time to be off, so at 9 o’clock, I bade them farewell and thanked them for their hospitality and welcome, which was lovely, pleasant and charming, and then I made for Colnbrook and Maidenhead. The weather was hot, the wind calm and the road level and good, so that I overtook all I saw on the way, and did the run to Maidenhead (15 miles) in 52 minutes. From Maidenhead, I came home via Touchen End and Binfield and arrived here at 10.50, which was 1.50 for the 27 miles. Had another breakfast, a wash down and change and off to Chapel a few minutes late for the morning service. Had a nice afternoon and at 5 o’clock I left for Newbury, going via Mortimer, Aldermaston, Woolhampton and Thatcham. Found Mr and Mrs Jelley out, so went up to the farm and saw them there. Left Newbury at 7.30, and had a nice ride to Mortimer. From there, I had to continually blow up the tyre of the hind wheel, there being a small puncture. I got home 5 past 10, a little tired. It was a very pretty evening out and most of the journey home I enjoyed. I should not soon forget how lovely Windsor Park looked with the dew just rising off the grass and the deer browsing about, and how grand it was too at Brampton and Aldermaston in the evening. The run in the morning was 50 and in the evening 53 = 103 miles

Monday and Tuesday June 5 & 6

Was exceedingly hot and quite unfit for riding.

Wednesday June 7

After dinner, it came over very threatening, and coming from Reading, Edward was caught in a heavy shower. Clearing off a little after 10, we, Frances, Edward and I, started off at 6 o’clock for Barkham and intending going to the Monument, but by Swallowfield it looked very heavy to the right, so we turned up Farley Hill away from the dark part and went through Eversley to Hartley Row and Odiham and then through Dogmersfield Park to the Barley Mow. It is a pretty ride through the park, but too many gates to open. We came home via Hartley Row and had quite a nice turn round, and very much enjoyed the ride of 32 miles.

Thursday June 8

Again, I had a splendid day for the journey and got on well and enjoyed the work. Finishing at Bonds, and being about 7 o’clock, I, instead of coming direct home, went on to Hartley Row and Odiham, but before getting to Odiham, I turned up the road to the left by the Boundary Oak, and surveyed that for about a mile, then back through Odiham and round Dogmersfield to Hartley Row, Elvetham and home, a very, very pretty ride and very much I enjoyed it. Coming home, I found Willie Neave there, he having left Bath.

44 miles

Friday June 9

Quite a cold day. I had a nice little ride round Hurst after ½ past 8, and saw a pretty sunset. I also heard the nightingales and cuckoos.

8 miles

Sunday June 11

To Chapel in the morning and for a run in the evening. The wind was in the East, with that thickness and gloom that often accompanies it. About ½ past 5, Willie Neave and I left and made our way to Mortimer via Swallowfield and Beech Hill. It was very dusty to Mortimer, but from there all round by Aldermaston South, Silchester, Pamber, Bramley and by the lanes to the back of the Wellington Estate to the Monument, the roads were excellent, and the scenery lovely, but wanted more clear sunlight, though by the time we got home, for we did not travel very fast, it was much clearer, and quite a nice evening with a beautiful sunset. We got home at 9.20, just in time and trim for supper, to which Willie Neave did justice.

39 miles

Monday June 12

Went for a ride just before 8 to Easthampstead and through Swinley Wood to Chavey Down and Winkfield and round about, then home via Bracknell. It was a nice evening and a pretty ride of 20 miles.

Tuesday June 13

Was dull and cold,

Wednesday June 14

There was a frost this morning and the day was cold, windy and dull. We had to have the doors in the shop shut and keep our coats on. I thought there would be no chance for a run. However, after tea, it cleared off, the wind dropped and the sun came out, so Edward and I went for a ride and a most enjoyable and lovely ride we had. We went to Eversley, Elvetham, Hartley Row, Pilcot, Dogmersfield, Odiham, Newnham, Rotherwick, Sherfield, Bramley, Stratfield Saye, Heckfield and home via Eversley. The principal part of the journey was Hampshire lanes, and most lovely it was all in among the green foliage and the bright and varied colours. We promised to be home at 9 o’clock, and we were not more than a minute behind time.

44 miles

Thursday June 15

Another splendid day for the Eversley round, bright, fine and warm. I should have enjoyed it more than I did, only I had a sore mouth fester in the gum, and also inflamed glands in my neck. Should have got home early, but calling upon Mr Sugden last, I was detained there a long time through Mrs Sugden ordering a ‘Col’ bicycle. Got home in time to see the trains back from Ascot.

20 miles

Friday June 16

Went round Hurst to see the sunset and most glorious it was, and much pleased was I with the little ride of 8 miles.

Sunday June 18

A very threatening day. I went to Chapel morning and evening. Mr Colyer came to tea. I was going for a ride but it began to rain about 6 and so I went to Chapel instead.

Monday June 19

Had a nice little rain last night and much it was needed, for we have had none since the latter part of May. After work I took Hilda for a ride on the bicycle to Hurst, Waltham and Binfield. It was a dull evening. However, she enjoyed the ride.

14 miles

Tuesday June 20

Dull and windy, so no run.

Wednesday June 21

Henry, Tom and I had a very comfortable spin this evening. We left a little after 5 and went to Maidenhead via Binfield and Waltham. Then along by the river to Cookham and Wycombe, and home through Marlow. It was a nice evening and calm, and we did not hurry anywhere, so that I arrived home as cool as I went out. The rain has put the roads in A1 order and washed the hedges and trees clean and fresh. There was a beautiful aroma of flowers and new mown hay. The dog rose was especially abundant. Between Marlow and B. Green, Henry ran over a hedgehog, which nearly threw him off. The hedgehog rolled up apparently unhurt. We put it in a handkerchief and brought it home. Strange not having ever seen any before on the road, we should come across two in one journey.

Altogether we had a beautiful ride, and the evening was most pleasant on this, the longest day. If we had thought 40 years ago that we three brothers might come along this road of old association again in 40 years’ time, how improbable it would have seemed, either separation or death we should have thought would have made it impossible. However, here we were and doing it easier and faster than we could have dreamed of. We got home at 10, each being thankful for the opportunity of such an outing, and for the health and strength to do so.

42 miles

Thursday June 22

Had a splendid fine part of the day for the journey, but it rained a little after tea. I got home about ½ past 6.

20 miles

Friday June 23

Having some change for Lady Glass, I took it over in the evening. I took Hilda with me. We left at ½ past 7, and after delivering the cash and having a talk with Mrs Fulker and a little refreshment, we went on to Yateley and Blackwater and home via Crowthorne. Going by Seymour’s we overtook two Beans. Hilda very much enjoyed her ride, of which she was rather proud. We got home at 10 o’clock having been 21 miles.

Sunday June 25

Henry and I, after 6, went for a ramble to Bagshot, Frimley, Hawley, Cove, Fleet, along the Flats to Blackwater and home via Crowthorne. I enjoyed the ride tolerably well, but I did not feel fit for much exertion.

34 miles

Monday June 26

There was a grand review of troops at Aldershot, the last that the Queen will attend. Henry and Mr Gorely went, and I should have also, but I intend going to Cheltenham tomorrow, having got Tom in the mood to go too. We have arranged to start at 5 o’clock in the morning.

Tuesday June 27

I turned out at 4 and was up at Tom’s exactly at ½ past 4, the time I had arranged to be there for breakfast. Lousie was up and had got it all ready. I sat down and had a good breakfast of rashers and eggs and coffee in great comfort and good spirits, for it was a nice calm morning, and we were both feeling uncommonly fresh and fit for the journey to Cheltenham.

5 o’clock was our advertised time for starting, but as everything looked so favourable, and we were in no hurry, we did not start until 5.20. We went off steady and jogged down to Reading at 12 miles the hour. As we were through Reading before the water carts were about, we had a most pleasant journey through the town, and a lovely ride to Streatley. There, instead of turning to the left for Blewbury and Wantage, which would have been the direct, but hilly course, we went on to Moulsford and turned there for Cholsey and Didcot. From there to Steventon and through East and West Hanney to Faringdon, which by this route is 45 miles. Here we called in at Lays in the Market Place and had a pot of tea and some cakes in a nice cool little room, for which we were charged the sum of 8d for the two of us. As we were looking round the town, we were accosted by name from, to us, a stranger, but which turned out to be Owen Goswell.

We were told at Faringdon that via Cirencester was the best way to Cheltenham, so we took his advice and went that way via Lechlade, which is a small town just on the border of Gloucestershire. It was Market Day, which accounted for the three bulls we overtook on the road, and which were being led by rings in the nose. Nevertheless, as we passed one, a man had to beat its nose to keep it back from interfering with us.

I think it was here that the church has an octagonal tower and not a very imposing structure. I forgot to say we had a look at Faringdon church, which is a very plain structure indeed, with a short squatly tower minus a steeple. Fairford, which is the next town we came to, is a more imposing place, and quite a respectable town. We went round to see the Church, which stands just outside a fine park. It is a very fine church of harmonious architecture. I am sorry we did not go inside to see the windows, which I now learn is unique. We passed through Poulton and thence to Cirencester.

Now Cirencester pleased us very much, and especially the church, which is one of the finest I have ever seen. In fact, I thought it was a cathedral. It has a tall, large and handsome square tower, and the church itself is very imposing and quite out of the ordinary, with a large number of very fine windows. We went inside and were much pleased with the stained glass, of which there was an abundance.

It was about 10 to 12 when we arrived here, so we had lunch here at a very comfortable inn. I think the name was the Nelson. It was on the right of the street leading out of Cirencester to Cheltenham. Making a start again a little before 1, we took the right hand road a little way out of Cirencester for Colesbourne and Cowley, and arrived at the top of the hill overlooking Cheltenham about 2 o’clock. Here we dismounted to see the grand view before us of Cheltenham lying in the valley or basin and the hills rising all around. Although we were on the top of this range of hills, we were quite unconscious of having come up until the view in front broke out before us.

The roads from Moulsford right away to Cheltenham were in splendid order, all being engine made, and with the exception of a little hill at Faringdon, it seemed level all the blessed way. Tom never had such a run, and nor have I – 60 miles of level running and all good hard solid road, and not a bit of dust. The evening was pretty and lovely, and the run down to Cheltenham was the most perfect I have ever had, for both Tom and I got down there without the least fatigue or sign of tiredness. Never once did we get hot or in the least uncomfortable, nor did we have or want any drink along the road save our tea at Faringdon, and something with our dinner at Cirencester. We had glorious weather right to Cheltenham, calm, warm and summer like, tempered by clouds. The two or three miles from the top of the hill into the town did not take long to cover, but it took much longer to find a place suitable for lodging. However, at last, we came across the Imperial Temperance Hotel, 355 High Street, which suited us to a ‘T’.

We had tea, which I see by the bill, they have not charged for, and then I went on to Gloucester, leaving Tom to look round Cheltenham and arranging to meet him here again at 7.30. It is 9 miles to Gloucester and a splendid level run over perfect roads, and the view would have been magnificent, but the weather changed about now and a strong E wind sprang up, with a dull, thick, heavy air. Entering Gloucester, I came across Barnum’s and Bailey’s show. Gloucester is a very large place, and I had some miles riding about there. I was much pleased with the Cathedral, which has a tall square tower with pinnacles at the four corners, and a nice close around it.

Coming back from Gloucester, the wind had increased to a gale, but as I had only 9 miles to go, it did not matter much so far as the riding was concerned. The worst of it was a nasty thick E wind, and quite spoiled and shut out the grand view which otherwise I should have had. Got back to Cheltenham a little before my time and met Tom, and then we had a walk down the Promenade, after which it was time for supper, which we had, and another poke round and then to bed and to sleep directly. The distance to Cheltenham was 83 miles.

Faringdon	45
Cirencester	66
Cheltenham	83
Gloucester	9
Cheltenham	9
Round C&G	7

108 miles

Wednesday June 28

Woke sometime in the early morning and heard the wind blowing furiously from the E. Went to sleep again and was awoken at 6 o’clock by the Barnum and Bailey show passing along the High Street, but soon fell off to sleep again and did not turn out until a ¼ to 8. Had a good breakfast and suited up and off at ¼ to 10, and just in time to see Barnum and Bailey’s show pass along.

While we were getting up, there was a very slight rain, but by the time we started it was bright and sunny and clear, but a strong E wind blowing. The first 8 or 10 miles was a climb up and right in the teeth of this gale. However, by steady application, we got up comfortably enough. The road was perfection and under ordinary circumstances would have been pleasant going, but today the wind was fiercely against us all the way to Witney. It is all open country after the character of Salisbury Plain. No hedges, but only stone walls. We had a liquer up at a very pretty little inn at Northleach, and at Witney, at the new Inn, we had a bread and cheese dinner. From Witney by Ducklington and Newbridge to Abingdon was level and pretty and a little more sheltered from the wind. Had tea at Abingdon. Here it came on to rain, but by the time Tom had been round to the church and looked up the sexton and got the copy of Mr and Mrs Rainbow’s marriage entry, it gave over, and we moved on.

The weather now looked fearfully stormy, and before we got to Wallingford, we took shelter for a while, fearing lest one of the thunderstorms, which were now all around, was going to break over us. However, it did not and we got to Wallingford all right, and so we did to Streatley, but from here, I made sure we must be caught, but we had nothing but a little fine rain, though the storms were all around us and the lightning from one point of the heavens to the other. Before reaching Pangbourne, we took shelter again, and a good job we did, for had we been a little sooner through Reading, we should have been caught in one of the heaviest storms we have had for more than a year. Just before we got to it, it ceased and we got home in the dry. This was miraculous, for as I say, the storms were all about on either side of us. The one in front washed the soldiers out of camp at Aldershot, struck a tree at Eversley, and rinsed the district to Reading. At Cheltenham, five persons were struck in Pittville Gardens, and over Henley and Windsor way such damage there.

We arrived home at ¼ past 8, without an ache or pain, and our legs as fresh and as untired as when we left Cheltenham this morning. Now this too was wonderful, because we have had to fight our way against a fresh headwind all the way from Cheltenham to Wallingford, and for 30 miles of it without the least shelter from any hedge. We made the best of it and were cheerful all the time, and enjoyed it so far as circumstances would allow of it. It was marvellous how Tom stood the long journey, and the severe storm, seeing he has never been for a lengthy run before. He seemed to quite enjoy the work and was very pleasant company. I have said very little about what I saw, because the journey being so unique, I think it will be indelibly fixed in my memory. As regards the roads, they were engine made all the way round from Sindlesham, and in perfect order. The distance home was 80 miles.

Thursday June 29

Was up as usual and fresher than ever. Had a splendid day for the journey and enjoyed it. Got home earlier than usual and did my booking and had and enjoyed a dinner, and off for a nice ride round Hurst. Poor little Skippy died today.

Friday June 30

Buried the dear little squirrel, but not without a tear, for I have had him for eight years and during that time, he has been my constant companion at breakfast.

1899

Sunday July 2

A cold, dull and, towards the end, a wet day. I did nothing.

Monday July 3

A dull, cold, windy and wet morning. The choir excursion was to Brighton and also another. I went to Hurst after 9.

8 miles

Tuesday July 4

Had some things to take to North Court in the evening, so I went on the bicycle, and on to Hartley Row and Hook and to Odiham, Dogmersfield, Pilcot, Elvetham and down the Flats, where I met Henry out for a ride just at the top of Blackwater Hill and came back with him to Eversley, and so home. A very pleasant and easy ride of 39 miles.

Wednesday July 5

Philip Sale and I went for a lovely ride this evening. He came down to tea and we started at 4.20 for Guildford via Hawley and the Hog’s Back. Philip had never been along here before, and he was charmed with the view and the ride. Had another cup of tea at Guildford and then on to Ripley and back through Send, Woking and Chobham. It was a very pretty evening and a most happy and enjoyable run. We did not hurry anywhere and I got home cool and comfortable just at 10 o’clock. Philip was very pleased with the ride.

54 miles

Thursday July 6

Yet another splendid day for the journey. Got home early but tired.

24 miles

Friday July 7

Started off a little before 8 for Henley to see the fireworks. Had a nice ride over there and was in plenty of time to have a half hour walk round before the fireworks began. Directly they were over, I started for home and had a clear road and a very pretty and pleasant ride, getting home before 11 o’clock.

22 miles

Sunday July 9

To Chapel in the morning. Willie Neave came to dinner and wanted me to go with him to Marlow on his way back to London. We, Neave, Edward and I, left about 5 and had a pretty ride to Marlow. Thence to Cookham and Maidenhead. What a lot of boating there was at Boulter’s Lock. Heard a graphophone on board a large steam launch, and it sounded out well.

From Maidenhead we went to Slough and left Willie at the station, he training from there to Paddington. Edward and I then went on to Eton and Windsor and up Queen Anne’s Drive to Winkfield, Bracknell, Easthampstead and home. It was a nice evening and a nice run of 44 miles.

Monday July 10

Went round Hurst after 9 o’clock.

8 miles

Tuesday July 11

Left here a few minutes before 8, and went to Marlow and back, and thoroughly enjoyed the ride – especially home. It was a very pretty evening with a beautiful warm air.

28 miles

Wednesday July 12

Edward and I went to Wycombe by Waltham St Lawrence and Maidenhead and home via Marlow. It was after 5 when we left and he was delayed at Maidenhead for ½ hour getting a new spring for his saddle, and we were home a few minutes after 9. It was a nice run, but more time would have been better.

44 miles

Thursday July 13

Had a splendid day for the journey, and I came home via Blackwater and Crowthorne and liked the little ride.

27 miles

Friday July 14

Had a good day’s work and in the evening Tom, Hilda and I went to Sanger’s Circus in Mr Martin’s meadow and saw a very good performance.

Sunday July 16

Mrs Riggs’ order did not reach us until last night, so I took it over on the bicycle this morning before 11 o’clock. Then I went down to Earley to see how Mr Sale was, and was there until ¼ to 1. Came home, had dinner, and a rest, and at 5.25 I started for Guildford via Eversley, Ash and the Hog’s Back and had a splendid ride there, and a cup of tea at the Bridge House. I then went on to Ripley and back through Send, Woking, Chobham and Bagshot, arriving home at 10 minutes to 10. It has been a very hot, close day, very pretty and pleasant. The evening especially was beautiful and I had a very pleasing ride round and did not get unduly hot.

74 miles

Monday July 17

I was going for a run this evening but went with Philip round his ‘Forty’ gardens. Henry came home from Margate.

Tuesday July 18

Started a little before 8 this evening and called at Earley to say Mrs Donaldson had arrived at our place and would be down tomorrow. Went on from there to Twyford and Littlewick and home by Waltham and enjoyed my ride.

26 miles

Wednesday July 19

I was going for a long ride this evening but delayed the starting and then went with Frances and Edward to Thatcham, Theale and to the right for Pangbourne. It was a level road and exceedingly dusty, but very good going. Just before reaching Pangbourne, a pin entered the tyre and punctured both sides of the inner tube. I spent nearly a ½ hour mending it and then did not do it effectively, but had to use the pump several times before I reached home. It was a nice evening somewhat spoilt.

32 miles

Thursday July 20

Had a splendid but very hot day for the journey. After finishing at Boyd’s, I came over the Flats and home via Yateley and had a nice ride.

30 miles

Sunday July 23

Was dull and threatening all day, but no rain came until night, and then but a very little. I went round Hurst after the evening service.

8 miles

Monday July 24

After ½ past 7 I left for a run to Marlow. At Knowl Hill I met Tom coming back from there, so I got him to turn round and go again with me to Marlow bridge. We had a very comfortable ride and got home a little after ½ past 9.

28 miles

Tuesday July 25

Just before 8, I went for a ride to Eversley, along the Flats to Blackwater and home by Crowthorne and Easthampstead.

20 miles

Wednesday July 26

There was a match on Hurst v Wokingham, so I had an hour or so there in the afternoon watching the cricket. Wokingham batted well. It was very windy, and so it was after tea, and I thought it would hinder me for a ride. It was past 5 o’clock, and as it turned out I had one of the most enjoyable rides of the season. I went via Ash to Puttenham and Shackleford and round by Peper Harow to Milford and Godalming, and home through Guildford and Bagshot. They have had a lot of rain Guildford way and all looks beautifully green. The wind, which was NW, seemed to help me all the way to Guildford, and, in fact all the way home to Bracknell. I never saw the view clearer from the Hog’s Back, and it was most lovely all the way round. It took just two hours to get to Godalming, over 28 miles. I was half inclined to stay at home and see the finish of the cricket, but I was particularly glad I went for a ride instead, for I enjoyed it to the full all the way round. I had a cup of tea at Guildford and came home fresh.

54 miles

Thursday July 27

Had a lovely day for the journey and one I enjoyed. After finishing at Lady Glass’, I had to wait for Mr Sugden, so I went over the Flats and round Yateley and then called at Finch Cottage.

35 miles

Sunday July 30

Edward’s holidays commenced last night and we arranged to go to Arundel. Frances was going, but she did not feel quite well enough for the journey. We got up at 4 o’clock and had a nice breakfast and at 5.12 we made a start. It was a glorious morning and we both felt in very good trim. We went via Hawley, Ash, Puttenham, Shackleford, Milford, Witley, Chiddingfold, Northchapel, Petworth and Fittleworth, and had a splendid and very enjoyable ride down, arriving at Arundel at 9.42. As I say, the running was perfect and the road from the Hog’s Back to Bury Hill was perfect. Even from here to Ash they were very good, but from the other side of the Back they have had an abundance of rain, and I have seldom seen the wayside and the country look so fresh and green as it did south of the Hog’s Back. I did not make the mistake I did last year of going in thick clothing, but wore my white light jacket, and got down comparatively cool, although from about 8 o’clock, the sun was very powerful. From about that time, there was quite a strong breeze on, but it was somewhat for us. After breakfast, we had a bath and then round the park until dinner time. All the afternoon I rested. Had tea at ½ past 4 and was off on my way home at 5.10. I came home via Pulborough, Loxwood and Guildford, but shall not do so again, for I have always found the road very indifferent from Arundel to Alfold, and today it was no better. Of course, from Alfold to Guildford was perfection, and very good home. It was a lovely evening and I enjoyed my ride. The distance down was 53, and home, 55. I was due at home at 10 o’clock and was only 10 seconds late. I got home in first class condition and had a wash down before I got into bed. I slept soundly and well.

108 miles

Monday July 31

Frances went by the 3.30 for Arundel. I got on with the booking and finished the monthly book.

1899

Tuesday August 1

To Marlow and back after 7 o’clock.

28 miles

Wednesday August 2

Miss Baker’s concert was held in the Hall, to which Bertha went.

Thursday August 3

Had a beautiful day for the journey and went for a ride to Yateley and along the Flats home. The horse was taken ill and got home just in time. A little later and it would not have been able to. Had very good orders today.

28 miles

Saturday August 5

It rained just a little this morning, and looked very threatening all day, so that I could make no arrangements for tomorrow and the Bank Holiday.

Sunday August 6

It rained more or less up to 12 o’clock, so I was glad I had made no arrangements to go out for the two days. After dinner, the weather cleared off and came out beautifully clear and bright. Henry and I essayed to go for a run, and started about ½ past 5, but going up Jubilee Hill, Finchampstead, my chain broke, and I took the bicycle to Mr Goswell and repaired it there, but did not feel safe enough for a run, so sent Henry on and I came home and put a new rivet in the chain, and then called upon Tom to see if he would go with me to Portsmouth tomorrow, but I could not prevail upon him to. Henry had a puncture on the Flats and had to walk to Sparvell’s, and Tom Sparvell repaired it for him, but the valve leaked all the way home and caused him to pump up several times, and he did not reach home until 11 o’clock, so I saw nothing of him.

Monday August 7 – Bank Holiday

Was up at 20 past 6, and while breakfast was getting ready, I came up to see if Henry would go with me, but having come home so late, he decided not to. So, I went back and had breakfast and, at 25 to 7, made a start. Tom, fearing my chain might break again, kindly brought his machine down for me last night, so that I started off with greater confidence of doing the journey without accident. It was a very foggy morning and it did not clear off until Shackleford. I did not mind that, because I am so used to that piece of road to Puttenham. From there, it was lovely going, and up Hindhead I enjoyed it, for the fog rising off the hills there and the sun shining through gave the scenery a grand effect. I had a glass of ginger ale at Puttenham and at the ‘Huts’. Otherwise, I did not get off until Butser Hill beyond Petersfield. I had to push all through the chalk cutting, for the chalk had here washed down right across the road and made it unrideable. From there to Horndean was very bad, the road was so broken up and covered all over with loose broken flint. However, I got over without a puncture, for which I was very thankful.

From Milford to Petersfield the road was perfect. I have never seen it so good. From Horndean to Portsmouth, too, was very good. I arrived at the Speedwell at a few minutes to 12 and had dinner. It began to rain a few minutes before I got to the Speedwell, but while I was at dinner it cleared off and was gloriously fine for the rest of the day. I had a very nice bathe, sharing a machine with two young chaps, which made it more cheerful. The Parade and the beach were packed with people, so I went on the pier and had a nice rest there and saw the boats go in and come out

Had tea and got across the ferry and made a start for home at 5 o’clock, and made a rattling good start and was travelling comfortably at 14 the hour when, before reaching Wickham, black clouds came up, and hearing thunder and lightning, and that just in my very path, and the further I went, the more I ran into it, so that at Meonstoke I stopped for 10 minutes, and by that time it had travelled around to my left and I made a dash on. I had not proceeded more than a mile than I ran into where it had just been, and for a mile or two the roads were soaked, and nearly to Alton there had been some rain. I felt very thankful to have just missed it. I had a glass of beer before going up Filmore Hill, and another at Alton. I got home at 9.45. The roads were very good to Ash, and from the Hog’s Back to Petersfield in magnificent condition. From Butser Hill to Horndean almost as bad as they well could be. The road home to Alton was very good but made a little heavy by the storm. From South Warnborough they were cut up a good deal. I had a very good holiday and enjoyed myself. If it had not been for the thunderstorm, the ride home would have been splendid, for I felt just fit for the journey. It was 63 miles there and 52 back, in all 116 miles.

Tuesday August 8

The horse being unwell, Mr Sale’s boy took the goods round Eversley, and I went in the evening on the bicycle for orders.

14 miles

Wednesday August 9

Henry and I had a very nice little ride this evening to Yateley, along the Flats to H. Row and round by the Union and back through Eversley and home. It was a pretty evening and the corn fields and stubble looked exceedingly pretty.

28 miles

Thursday August 10

Had a capital day for the journey, and got on very well.

22 miles

Friday August 11

After 7, I took some goods over to Finchampstead and had a nice little ride of 8 miles.

Sunday August 13

To Chapel this morning and heard Mr Hayden from Bracknell. About ½ past 5, Henry and I started off and went to Eversley Cross and thence over very bad and loose roads to Heckfield and Mattingley, from there over tolerably good roads to Odiham, Dogmersfield, Pilcot, Winchfield Union, Elvetham, along the Flats to Blackwater, Yateley and home. The bad roads made it unpleasant to Mattingley but from there, home, we had a very nice and pretty ride.

38 miles

Monday August 14

Started for Marlow at 6.55 and had a very good run there and back considering how broken up the roads are. The wind was in the East and of course, cool.

28 miles

Wednesday August 16

Philip Sale, Tom and I went by the excursion to Boulogne. We should have left here at 6.55, but the Oxford part of the train was a little late and we did not leave here until 10 past 7, and this, and getting later at each station to Guildford, put us out of our right times, and by the time we arrived at Folkestone we were over an hour late, and then we had to wait for another excursion, which was later still, so instead of leaving Folkestone, we did not leave until 2 o’clock. We had a pleasant ride down. The weather was dull and cloudy to Redhill, but from there, it cleared off, and came out bright and hot. The sea was as calm as a lake, and not the least swell on right across. Considering we had only four hours at Boulogne, and had dinner and tea there, we saw a good deal during the rest of the time. We went into the crypt of the Cathedral, but I was not interested in it. We left Boulogne at 6.10 and had a pretty passage across and a fast train ride home. Philip stayed the night, as he, not having been to Boulogne before, wanted to see more of it. We arrived home at 11.50. I was not particularly tired, and slept well.

Thursday August 17

Was up as usual and did the journey, and had a very nice day and a very pleasant time, and enjoyed the day, and came home fresher and less tired than usual.

20 miles

Sunday August 20

To Chapel in the morning and heard Mr Collier of Reading. After tea at a ¼ to 5, I started off by myself for a ride to Shackleford, Milford and Godalming, and a lovely ride I had too. I came home from Guildford over the Hog’s Back, up which I rode easily. Beyond stopping to drink a glass of ale at Guildford and one at Yateley, I did not stop all the way round. The roads were quite as good on the whole as I expected to find them. It was lovely moonlight the latter part of the journey. I don’t know when I have enjoyed a run by myself so much as I did this, and I felt quite fresh coming home, so that I could ride up East Court hill with relish. I made it 36 miles round. I started at ¼ to 5 and got home before ½ past 9 and did not hurry anywhere.

56 miles

Monday August 21

Eight of us – Bertha, Frances, Hilda, Mary Walden, Katie and Carrie and Tom and myself – went by the 2 o’clock train and took the 3 o’clock boat to Streatley. It was a perfect day for the water, quite warm enough. We went on ‘The River Queen’ and while it waited at Streatley, had tea on board. We left Streatley at 6 and got off at Caversham at 8, and got home a little before 9 o’clock. We all enjoyed the outing.

Tuesday August 22

Henry and Kemp went the usual Ash and Guildford tramp and had a good time. I went the Flats and Yateley run this evening, and a lovely sunset and moonlight ride I had.

20 miles

Wednesday August 23

I essayed to go over the same ground as I did on Sunday, but the roads were so much more broken up, and there was a strong East wind on, so, though I started earlier, I was much longer getting to Ash than usual. Even the Hog’s Back was much broken up, and instead of going to Shackleford and Milford, I went straight to Guildford. There I had a cup of tea and then back home the same way as I came. I did not enjoy the journey over, the sun was hot and the wind East, and I did not feel up to the mark. The journey home was quite another thing, that I quite enjoyed and came along comfortably, and being moonlight, was very pretty.

48 miles

Thursday August 24

An exceedingly hot day. I got on very well round the journey.

20 miles

Sunday August 27

Mr Terry left at 8 o’clock for his holidays, on a bicycle from Howard’s. The day looked threatening and towards evening a little rain fell. I went to Chapel in the morning and heard a very poor sermon from a young student.

Monday August 28

We had a nice little bit of rain today, which is very acceptable. We have had none, except one thunderstorm, since April. This has been the longest drought I have known, and it has been so exceedingly hot nearly all the time.

Thursday August 31

Nice day for the journey.

20 miles

1899

Saturday September 2

Mr Terry being away for his holidays, I did the journey. It was showery and I did not enjoy the day.

Sunday September 3

To Chapel this morning and heard Mr Scorey much to my liking. He preached really a very fine sermon. At ¼ to 5, I started for a ride and went to Hounslow via Windsor Park. It was a lovely run over and very much I enjoyed it. From Hounslow through Colnbrook and Maidenhead home was not so enjoyable. There was a decided west wind against me, and that told along the level to Maidenhead. From Maidenhead home was very dark above and below, but it was more pleasant than the open country through which I had just passed. I got home at ¼ past 9. John and Norah came one day last week to the shop. John is going to stay to the end of October and then off to Australia.

53 miles

Tuesday September 5

Being a very nice evening, I had a run to Marlow and back. Left here at 9 past 6, had a beautiful ride over, and a ditto back, and without hurrying I got back at 9 past 8, just the two hours for the 28 miles.

Wednesday September 6

Henry, John, Tom, Mr Evans and Philip Sale left for Selborne at ½ past 8. About 10 o’clock, a very heavy rain set in for two hours, and we quite expected then to turn back, but just before 3, I had a telegram from Philip to say they had arrived at Selborne all right, and would I come to meet them, so at 3 I started over and had a lovely ride over. I got to Alton in 1½ hours. There I had tea, and then off to Selborne, and met them just as they were coming out. I got to Selborne a little under the two hours, taking out the ½ hour I had for tea. It took us four hours to come home.

John had a burst before reaching South Warnborough, and this delayed us some time. Then Henry, who had a puncture going down, had his tyre run down again and had to pump it up a dozen or so times before reaching home. Coming through Hartley Row, Tom got off the road and was thrown. John nearly so, and I pretty nearly off by getting into where they had just laid the sewer. However, we all got home safe, and I for one enjoyed the run.

52 miles

Thursday September 7

Did the journey and liked it.

20 miles

Sunday September 9

A dull day with a strong wind from the North. I went to Chapel in the morning. I thought there would be no chance for a ride, but after tea the weather seemed to be on the improve. So, I started off for Odiham, but when I got to Phoenix Green, the machine went so well, I made for Hook, intending to turn there for N. Warnborough, but the machine still going nice, I went on to the ‘Hatch Sale’ and turned there for Mapledurwell and Up Nately, Greywell, Odiham, Dogmersfield, Pilcot, Winchfield, Elvetham, the Flats, Blackwater, Yateley and home, and this was a delightful and very easy run. I did not stop anywhere and enjoyed every inch of the way. I left at 5 and was home at ½ past 8.

42 miles

Monday September 11

I intended going for a long ride this evening, but somehow I got late in starting, and then John and Tom were going for a run round Waltham, and I went with them, intending to go on to Maidenhead and Windsor, but going down Bill Hill, I had a puncture, and the weather looked very threatening, so having mended the tyre, I went on and overtook John and Tom and kept with them. We went to Knowl Hill and back via Hurst.

18 miles

Wednesday September 13

I caught a cold yesterday and was unable to go for a long run today. I went to Knowl Hill and back, and then to bed.

18 miles

Thursday September 14

I was in bed all day, being unwell with my cold.

Sunday September 17

Was a very nice day. I went to Chapel in the morning. Arranged with Henry to start at 4 for an evening ride, but during the afternoon, I felt very much out of sorts and was afraid I should not be able to manage much of a run. However, after tea, which I had at the shop, I felt better, and when I mounted the bicycle I was soon myself again. Yesterday, I had a new chain from Tom, and in the evening partly put it on, and before Chapel this morning, I finished the job. Our destination this evening was to Shackleford and home through Milford and Godalming, a programme which we carried out successfully. We left at ½ past 4 and got home at 25 past 9. There was a strong West wind blowing all the time, and this was in our favour all the way to Guildford but against us from there to Ash. Although strong, it troubled me but very little. From Ash home it seemed more for than against us, so, as I say, we reaped all the benefit we could from it. It was very pleasant all the way round, especially the moonlight ride home. Between the Ash stations, Henry pointed out Mr Bateman’s moated house, and a little further on we overtook and had a few words with Mr Bateman Jnr, who told us about the latter failure of the hop crop. The wind, which was just behind us, put us along the Hog’s Back at a grand pace, for that, like all the rest of the road, was in splendid condition. We stopped nowhere except at the Cricketers Arms just this side of Guildford, where we had a pint of ale between us. Nowhere did I feel in the least tired, and felt, coming home, I could do the journey again with comfort. Before I started, I was afraid my cold, which still stuck to me, would have prevented any long ride, but I was mistaken, for the further I went, the better I was. Mrs Herington, who is staying at Mr Geo Sale’s, came to dinner and tea.

56 miles

Monday September 18

After tea, I went round Hurst and had Mr Wilmot accompany me. He was very pleased with this run, and it certainly was pretty.

8 miles

Tuesday September 19

I was going for a moonlight ride this evening, but as the day advanced it got more unsettled until at 6 it began to rain, and so I did not go.

Wednesday September 20

Although the day was very windy, I made up my mind for a ride this evening if it did not rain. I came up in the afternoon to see if Henry was going, but it was far too windy for him, so I went home and had tea, and at 8 to 5, I made a start. I did not feel at all up to the mark all the afternoon. However, the tea seemed to refresh me, and after I had been a few miles I felt alright again. I started off with the intention of going the same course as on Sunday. The wind was very strong and against me to Eversley, it being West, but from Eversley right round to Milford, it was more for me, and I had a delightful ride over there. The weather when I started was cloudy and stormy looking, but it rapidly improved and came out sunny, and when the sun went down, all the clouds dispersed.

It was ¼ to 7 when I got to Milford, and the moon was just up nicely, and I felt so fresh and well, and everything looked so pretty that I made up my mind to go to Hindhead. I thought I might never have such a chance again, to ride up and down Hindhead by moonlight. The wind had come down considerably, and what there was I should have with me coming back, and the roads were in good order and white and light. It warmed me up going up there four or five miles of uphill, but then what a splendid view I had of the rising moon and over the valley to the right, and over Haslemere hills. By the time I got nearly to the top of the hill, the moon was just high enough to shine full upon the gibbet post, but not over the high cutting upon which it stands, so that where I was was in the shadow still, with the dark abyss of the Punch Bowl on my right and the dark downs rising on my left.

I went as far as the ‘Huts’ and there had a glass of ale. It was ½ past 7 when I left, so that it took me 2 hours 35 minutes to do the 33 miles there. Coming back, the moon had risen just so that it shone over the high escarpment on my right, leaving the road in the shadow and shining full on to the Golden town stone and down into the Devil’s Punch Bowl. Here I got off to have a look at this grand view, for grand it was in the extreme, and a sight I shall never forget. It was weird sight. Although the road being white, I could easily distinguish it. I was afraid to coast down the hill, and so I came down at a quick pace with my feet on the pedals. I was not long getting to Milford, and it was now very light and beautiful and a pretty sight all the way to Guildford. It seemed strange to be at Godalming at gas light. I have never seen it lit up before. At Guildford, I had a cup of Bovril, and then came home via Normandy. I was just about two hours coming from Guildford, which, considering it was against the wind and at the end of a long journey, I considered a very good performance.

I arrived home at 10 to 11 having had the longest, and, I think, the best after tea run I have ever had. I was very glad I had the courage to tackle Hindhead. The cyclometer registered 68½ miles and I arrived home quite fresh and not in the least overtired. I went for a moonlight ride, and I certainly had it. I could not have picked a better moonlight evening all the year round. When I started, I was almost afraid of a storm and had no anticipation of a clear sky and moon, but I had no sooner started on my journey than the weather began to improve superbly, and I improved too, and felt more jolly and happy all the way round.

68 miles

Thursday September 21

A very nice day for the journey and I got on well. Mrs C. Chandler informed me that the people have come into Morrete, so I went up at once and the lady gave me a very large and long order. She was very pleasant.

20 miles

Friday September 22

Had a very busy day with the orders and did not finish until 10 o’clock

Saturday September 23

I had to go on the bicycle to overtake Mr Terry to get a ticket that ought not to have gone. I caught him at East’s.

8 miles

Sunday September 24

Yesterday, being wet, I could not make any arrangements to go out for today, but as this morning was fine, I came up to see if Mr Terry was ready to go for a run to Oxford. I picked upon Oxford because as there was a very strong wind on, and as I thought from the West, it would be on our left from Reading and with us after dinner. We started at 10.22 and then I found the wind was NW and that made all the difference, and was strong against us all the way to Oxford, except a mile or so before Wallingford. The weather was very bright and sunny and the view very pretty, but the wind spoilt the run to Oxford. We arrived there at 1.20, being 37 miles, so we did not dawdle about much. We did not make a dismount.

At Oxford we had a very poor dinner at the same place where Henry and I had it on our tandem run to Stratford years ago. We then had what Henry said was the worst mutton chop he had ever had, but today I think we had the cut next to it. To make amends for the mutton, the ale was particularly good, but not quite enough of it. After a short nap, we had a look round Oxford, and at ¼ to 3, left for Thame.

Mounting the long hill out of Oxford, we had a splendid run to Thame over a road that favoured us with a strong wind at our back. Thame is 13 miles from Oxford. We had a look round the town, and at 3.45, we left for Aylesbury which is 10 miles, but the roads were so good, and nearly all level, that we easily covered the distance in 35 minutes, so we got to Aylesbury at 4.20. Soon after leaving Oxford, the weather came overcast, and before we reached Aylesbury it commenced coming down heavy, so we made for the Eagle hotel and got in in the dry. Ordered tea and had it served up nicely in a comfortable room, and there we sat until 5 o’clock, by which time the rain had given over sufficiently for us to make a start. We paid our bill, 3/6, which was rather dear, and 6d for the bicycles. However, I did not begrudge the money, for we had much comfort for it, and it was much better than searching round the place for a cheap house and getting wet. We had hardly got out of Aylesbury when down came the rain, and I had to put on my cape and keep it on for nearly all the rest of the way home. From Aylesbury, nearly to Princes Risborough, 8 miles, we had the wind against us, but it was a level and good road and we were able to get along at a very fair pace. The scenery round about is magnificent. There was a long hill out of P. Risborough and then the finest run I know of to Wycombe, 9 miles, one gentle declivity all there and perfect road, running in a narrow valley with the hills rising on either hand. We had a glass of ale each at Wycombe and then home via Marlow in the dark, for it was 6.30 when we left Wycombe. We arrived home at 8.37. Mr Terry went to the shop and had a change and I had a warm wash down and was as fresh as ever. In fact, I liked the ride home from Wycombe as much as any part.

Had it been the same kind of weather as it was in the morning, and all the way to Oxford during the afternoon and evening, it would have been simply delightful, for the scenery, especially after Thame, was most delightful. The luxuriant green of the Aylesbury valley was most refreshing after the parched appearance of our district. It was green, green, luxuriant green, everywhere, and oh so pretty, but it wanted the sunshine. From Aylesbury right away round to Wycombe was nearly level and curved in, with the hills close at hand. It was exactly 100 miles round, and were I asked to name the best 100 mile run I know of, I would no hesitation in saying this. I hope to go round again in better weather and have more to say about it.

100 miles

Wednesday September 27

It was wet today and has been more or less all this week. I took up the plants in the garden this afternoon.

Thursday September 28

I expected a wet day for the journey but had a very nice fine one. I got on very well and went to Yateley and back.

26 miles

1899

Sunday October 1

Was a wet day. I did not go out except to Chapel twice and heard Mr Cave preach two good sermons. Ernest Sale rode over from Aldermaston this morning and arrived in a pretty pickle. He stayed a day and went home by train.

Monday October 2

Was at booking all the day and finished all the bills. Went round Hurst after tea and, coming from Bill Hill home, I had a splendid view of the white owl. From the cross roads nearly to Matthew’s Green he kept at my side, first one side and then the other, and as he flew along over the ditch between me and the hedge I had an excellent opportunity of observing him, especially as it was comparatively light 6.20.

8 miles

Wednesday October 4

Was a regular wet day. I did a little towards putting the workshop straight.

Thursday October 5

Was a dull and, at first, damp day. The roads were muddy, but I had a very good day for the journey and took a great deal of money.

24 miles

Friday October 6

Was a horrible day to me. The tenders for the alteration came in, and were at least double what I had anticipated.

Sunday October 8

I went for a run to Marlow and back before dinner and after ten to the Ridges, Broadmoor and Easthampton, and then to Chapel.

41 miles

Wednesday October 11

After tea, Henry and I went to Burchett’s Green and back via Waltham. It was a nice mild evening out and we had a pretty little ride. The cycle parade was held this evening, but it had a very poor turn out.

22 miles

Thursday October 12

Davis being ill, Mr Terry did the journey.

Friday October 13

I went over to Bracknell to see Mr May, the builder, to ascertain what his estimate for the Post Office alteration was, and it was more than the others.

8 miles

Sunday October 15

Was bright and sunny but very windy from the East. I had a jug of cream to take to the Rectory Finchampstead, so I went over just after ten, and then to Yateley and along the Flats and so home. The Flats were in magnificent condition all the way. However, not being out for fast running, I took it easy. Willie Neave came to dinner.

22 miles

Monday October 16

Henry and I had an early tea and at 4 o’clock started for Marlow. It was a beautiful afternoon, but soon after we started, came over thick and eastyfied. We did not dismount at Marlow but passed on for Henley. Coming down the long hill Medmenham, Henry ran against a stone and yanked his watch off the bicycle. He did not discover he had lost it until we had got to ½ mile on. We turned back and found it. It was very pretty to Henley. Passing through Wargrave, I had a puncture from a long piece of wire. I tried to mend it by the roadside but failed so we walked back to Wargrave and went to the Coffee House and there I found a second puncture, which, when I had repaired it once again, made for home by moon light.

34 miles

Wednesday October 18

Again we have had a very fine autumn day. At 4 o’clock, Henry and I started off for Maidenhead, but like on Monday, we had no sooner started than the thick evening vapour obscured the sun and made it rather dull to Maidenhead. Directly we got through Maidenhead, it cleared off a great deal and we had a very pretty run to Wycombe. It was full moon, and by a little after 5, it lit up the Bourne Valley as well as the light from the setting sun, and exceedingly pretty it was. We did not stop at Wycombe but made our way to Marlow, a very nice run this evening. Neither did we stop at Marlow but came right away home. Which we reached at 7.35. It seemed more like 9 o’clock, for before entering Wycombe it was moonlight. We both very much enjoyed the ride and I felt happier than I have for the last two weeks, for I have been much troubled about the Post Office.

40 miles

Friday October 20

Mr Holmes called upon me this afternoon and we settled up about Osborne House.

Sunday October 22

I went for a ride this morning to Swallowfield and the Monument and home via Eversley. It was very foggy to Swallowfield, but from there it cleared off and came out bright and warm. It was a very nice little ride. After dinner I went round Hurst and picked a few blackberries.

26 miles

Wednesday October 25

To Odiham and round Dogmersfield and Elvetham after an early tea.

29 miles

Thursday October 26

Had a very wet day for the journey but enjoyed it very well.

20 miles

Friday October 27

Signed the contract for the work at the Post Office.

Tuesday October 31

The Waterloo Estate was put up for sale, but the only piece of property actually sold was 23 Broad Street to Mr Gibson for £650.

1899

Wednesday November 1

Bertha, Hilda, Frances and I went to Col Coles’ entertainment in the Drill Hall.

Thursday November 2

I had a very wet day for the journey and a heavy lot of orders. I intended going to the Fair in the evening, but being so wet I did not hurry home, and it being so wet I did not go.

Friday November 3

Very wet and windy, and quite out of the question going to the Fair. Was at work late.

Saturday November 4

The Fair was on again today but wet again.

Sunday November 5

Wet all day.

Monday November 6

Some of the Fair stayed for today, but it was wet again, five wet days running.

Wednesday November 8

Was at work in the office til nearly 10 o’clock putting a skirting round the sitting room.

Thursday November 9

Lord Mayor’s day and a beautiful fine day it has been, bright and sunny. I enjoyed the journey.

20 miles

Sunday November 12

I went for a ride to Hook, Odiham and Dogmersfield and Elvetham.

30 miles

Monday November 13

Set out the two windows.

Thursday November 16

Had a good day for the journey and got a large lot of orders.

20 miles

Sunday November 19

Went to Elvetham, Dogmersfield, Odiham, and home to dinner. The weather was cold and misty, but I enjoyed my outing very well.

28 miles

Monday November 20

Mrs Rigg has left the Rectory and a Miss Kemble is coming. I went over this afternoon but she had not arrived. I came home by the College and Crooked Billet. Very pretty.

12 miles

Wednesday November 22

Tom and I went by the 8.13 to London to the Stanley and National Show. It was very nice mild day and we got on very well. Mr Sugden and his son went by the same train to the same shows. Tom bought a waterproof at Hope Bros Ludgate Hill, and then we went to the Agricultural Hall and was in there til nearly 3 o’clock. We then went to the Palace. Neither of the shows were so good as last year’s and had it not been for the ‘free wheel’ movement, they had better not have had a show. We left the Palace at 7.40 and at home at 10 o’clock. I bought another cape for bicycling in the wet.

Thursday November 23

Had a lovely day for the journey and enjoyed it very much. The roads are in grand order.

22 miles

Sunday November 26

Went for a run this morning to Mattingley, Hook, Odiham, Dogmersfield and Elvetham, and a lovely morning it was too, bright, sunny and spring like. I very much enjoyed it, it was so very pretty all the way round. I cannot recall such a splendid day for the end of November. Went to Chapel in the evening and heard a good sermon from Mr Cave. Willie Neave and his girl called in in the evening.

33 miles

Monday November 27

Had a splendid little ride round Easthampton in the afternoon.

5 miles

Tuesday November 28

A lovely summer day. Henry went for a ride round Hurst and Burchett’s Green before dinner and I went round Easthampstead in the afternoon. Very pretty.

6 miles

Wednesday November 29

Went round Hurst just before tea, and had quite a nice little ride. Did not go out after tea and had a miserable night indeed.

8 miles

Thursday November 30

Another good day for the journey, but was too unhappy to enjoy it.

22 miles

1899

Friday December 1

Had a busy day. It rained very heavily in the morning, the first rain we have had since the beginning of November. Had to send to Wixenford and Bearwood in the wet and dark.

Sunday December 3

A sharp frost last night with a slight fog made the trees look very pretty this morning. I went to Winchfield and Elvetham before dinner and had a very nice ride, but was dull in myself.

24 miles

Tuesday December 5

Was very dull all day and miserable but got up.

Wednesday December 6

Most happy and thankful, a day I shall long remember.

Thursday December 7

Had a dull damp day for the journey but was joyous and happy all the way round.

20 miles

Sunday December 10

A lovely day. I went for a ride before dinner to Winchfield and back. The road was hard and frosty, and the sun shone bright and cheerful, and the air was crisp. It was a pretty ride.

22 miles

Tuesday December 12

Today, winter has set in. Up til now, we have had lovely weather. The ground is covered with snow.

Thursday December 14

Davis has been knocked up all the week. I got Jerry Goddard, who is working for Mr Seward, to do the cart journey today. I went on the bicycle and had a lovely day out. It was very cold and frosty and a lovely moonlight night. I had a heavy lot of orders and it was between 7 and 8 o’clock when I was at Higgs on the Common. As I say, it was a lovely night, a full moon and a cloudless sky, and most wintry looking, with the sun on the roofs of the cottages and on the ground, and I enjoyed the sight and the ride home much.

20 miles

Friday December 15

Fortunately, Mr Sale was sending to Well Farm today, and having a sack of potatoes for Morrate. I got him to take my goods there also, or I do not know how I should have managed, for besides this we had more than a cart load for tomorrow.

Sunday December 17

Having some money to take to Lock’s, I went over on the bicycle this morning, and rain having set in on Saturday, the roads were in a very muddy state.

18 miles

Thursday December 21

I am sending Bristol cake for Christmas boxes this year, and nothing else except in one or two cases. I sent many as I could Tuesday and today, so as to lighten Saturday’s cart. I went round on the bicycle all in the slush and mud, and had it as dark as ever I have known it after sunset. However, I got on all right.

20 miles

Saturday December 23

There was a large load of goods for the journey, and I got them off all right, and then had a very busy day in the shop up to 11 at night. Terry went by the 6.55.

Sunday December 24

I was very tired so laid abed until tea time. Went to Chapel in the evening.

Monday December 25 – Xmas Day

A most splendid day, the sun shone bright and warm, and everything looked cheerful. I went on the bicycle to Eversley. The roads were exceedingly muddy, but that I did not mind, for I was in no hurry. I took four tins of milk to Sugden, and called upon C. Chandler, G. Chandler, Mrs Burrows, Mrs Burbidge, J. Chandler, Mr Falker, Geo Slyfield, and Harmsworths, and had a very happy morning.

I got home just right for dinner and had some lovely turkey, which Bertha had cooked to perfection. She bought the bird, stuffed it, cooked it and carved it to perfection. Frances and Edward were going to Arundel, but they not being well down there, they could not go, and so they spent their Xmas Holidays at home here. We had no other company, and we all enjoyed the day very much, winding it all up with a game at whist.

18 miles

Tuesday December 26

Was a wet day. Frances and Edward were going to walk to Earley this afternoon but could not because of the weather. I had tea at the shop, and Henry and Millie came to our place for the evening.

Wednesday December 27

We wound up a pleasant Xmas time with a little party tonight.

Thursday December 28

A dull, dark, dirty and cold day for the journey. About 4 o’clock, a heavy rain set in with a strong wind. I got round very well.

20 miles

Saturday December 30

We had a heavier load of goods for the journey than I ever remember for the week after Xmas. The cart was full up top and inside.

Sunday December 31

Was a marvellous day for the last of the year. A clear, bright cloudless sunny and baking day. I went round Odiham, Dogmersfield and Elvetham before dinner and had a lovely ride. Had the roads been dry, it would have been perfect. I had to draw my cap well over my eyes to shade me a little from the bright shining sun. There was a light breeze from the south, which, of course, was against me going out but very much helped me home. The day seemed to put new life and vigour in me and set me planning in my mind for next year’s runs. The day held out bright right through, with a fine evening. Frances and Edward went to Earley in the afternoon.

Today’s run of 30 miles brings the total for the year up to 4616 miles excessive of the ride to business and back. This is over a thousand more miles than I have ever covered in a like period before, and I have not once in any of the runs this year suffered from over exertion, as I have done in some of the long runs of previous years. I cannot call to mind one journey this season where I could not rest well and sleep well after it, and I have always been able to eat and enjoy my supper after the longest of these runs. The past year has been a record one for the bicycling both as to the distance and enjoyment therefrom, and when I think I have not had a single accident to mar the pleasure of these thousands of miles, I have great cause for thankfulness.

As regards other things, the year has not been so prosperous. It began with Bertha being laid up for the first four months with a painful illness, and ended up with my making a very unsatisfactory bargain with the Post Office. However, on the whole, I have much more to be thankful for than to lament over, and it looks as though I have a clear start for the New Year of 1900.

Bertha has greatly recovered from her complaint and looks as well and blooming as ever, and to me as young and sweet. My two children are well and happy, and everything going along as well as one could wish for, therefore, as I say, I seem to have a clear start for the New Year.