Miss Davidson's Journal  1850

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JANUARY 1850

Tuesday 1^st January 1850

Fine bright day.  I went in to see Mamma in her bedroom and then I went into Papa’s dressing room, just as I used to do, if I happened to go down stairs before him. Which was seldom the case!  But he was gone and will never return to us. I trust that he is at rest in Christ and that we shall all sooner or later go to Him also.  We have missed his dear kind voice indeed this day when as usual all the children used to crowd around him so merrily.  He did love his dear grandchildren nearly as much as us his own children. Willie & I went out early to get some toys and presents for old &  young.  We had Aleck Pirie & Charlotte and all the Don Cottage party calling and we made the latter very happy with some New Year’s gifts.  As they would not get a cab unoccupied in the whole town, we sent them home in the carriage & then Kate, Willie & Mag and the children drove down the street to see the bustle. We spent a quiet evening.

The New Year always makes us look forward to a bright future however san an ending the old year may have. It is a happy thing that we can always hope.

Wednesday 2^nd January

Dam.  We drove out with Mamma who went to see Mary Anne for the first time.  Mag went to Westfield to call and Willie & I went to see some shops.  Mrs Henry Lumsden called.  Kate Leslie came to stay with MA We sent for Dr. Williamson at night, thinking Minny had measles.

Thursday 3^rd

Fine. Minny perfectly well!! Mrs Macgregor, Mr & Mrs J Burnett and Mrs Chistie called. After lunch mamma took a drive & Willie & I were just ready for a walk when we were detained by lots of callers, viz dear kind Emmeline Forbes, the Miss Cumines & Mr Kay Seaton.  We paid MA a visit and we had a nice quiet evening.  Captain Leith Hay also called.

Friday 4^th

Fine above but wet roads.  Mamma Kate & Willie had a drive, while Maggie & I went to Cuparstone.  Aleck will & I then had a turn together.  Col John Forbes was married on 27^th December to Miss Whitmore. May spent the morning at the Terrace. 

Saturday 5^th

Fine frosty day. Willie was marking shirts all morning & then we went to see my nurse Jane Angus, who is very poor then to see Jessie Johnstone.  I went out a little in the afternoon with Kate Leslie.  Duncan came to tea and we had a riotous evening with the children. 

Sunday 6^th January 1850

Very frosty & slippery.  James’ birthday. Mamma went to church with us in the morning and we went again in the afternoon. We had the expected letter from Duncan, just after having received the first intelligence of poor Papa’s illness.  He is in great uncertainty as to whether he ought to start by the first sail or not.  He seeks direction from the Lord in all so he is sure to be guided well.  His dated the 2^nd December so we know his heart and prayers were with us all during the last sad week of the life of our dearest father.  He has the comfort of real religion in his trial.  Aleck read aloud at night as usual.  I sat long reading in my own room,

Monday 7^th

Fine cold day. Willie got such a nice present from Aleck of Curzon’s Monasteries of the Levant.  Mary Lindsay called and she & I had a confidential chat. We made calls on old Thomas & Mary and Mrs Innes Chapel street.  Mary Anne & Kate Leslie came over there to tea.  We read some of the boys’ letters when they were very young, but it made Mamma sad.

Tuesday 8^th

Hard frost.

Kate went early to see Miss Farquharson our opposite neighbour.  Mrs Innes Raemoir called and sat a long time. She saw Mamma.  Kate & Mag called at Miss Grants, Monymusk & Mrs Mitchells.

Wednesday 9^th

Fine.  Willie & I went for a walk with Katie Bannerman and afterwards went over to enquire for Lady James Hay. We stayed with her a long time talking about Papa as she was so interested he being one of her few relations.  Kate, May & the children went t0  see old Mary & Thomas who stuffed them with goodies.  I took tea at the Terrace. 

Thursday 10^th

Kate packed up her things for leaving tomorrow.  I got  a note by post in the morning which I forgot to open till 12 o’clock.  I found it was from E. Ramsay who wished me to meet her early at the hotel & go with her to the dentist’s!  We found Jane had come in with her, she had not missed me so much, as my carelessness might have made her do.  They came here for an hour or so.  Frs. F. Hadden called.  I went down to get some rock to send with some other things to Cheltenham & then I called upon Jane Hogarth.

Friday 11^th

Looks like more snow.  Everything was nicely arranged and Kate started with Minnie and a maid at 12 o’clock accompanied as far as Pimpithill by Maggie, Aleck & me, who saw here comfortably settled in the Railway carriage.  She goes to Beattock bridge tonight & on to Cheltenham tomorrow.  We walked on the road till the carriage overtook us to warm us, which had the desired effect.  Aleck put on Will’s cloak and cut a most funny figure.

Saturday 12^th

Damp thaw.  No one went out.  Poor Mr Innes who has been very unwell called on Mamma and sat a long time;  the lunch was brought in so he partook with us.  I went round to dine at Pat’s and assisted my nieces to make toffee which succeeded to admiration.

Sunday 13^th January 1850

Freezing & very slippery.  We went twice to church & then to see dear Jessy who is rather better.  I read and wrote at night. 

Monday 14^th

Very snowy. Eliza Ramsay came into the Dentist and stays here. We had a nice chatty day and the Inverernans called. The harmony of the evening was delightful & complete!!!

Tuesday 15^th

Very stormy.  Chatted away the whole day most comfortably around the old attractive fire.  E’s room smoked so badly, she was obliged to creep into my nest beside me, but we sat up far too late talking. We inspected Aleck’s highland court dress of the 45 after tea. 

Wednesday 16^th January

Quite as bad but a ground thaw.  I forgot to say yesterday we drove to Mrs Millers & the Terrace where MA was not very comfortable and the little Lindsays lunched. Willie waded round to the Terrace today but came home in a cab bringing Duncan with her.  We heard from Kate how well they had managed the journey.  Mrs Alex Leslie called today! A wonderful feat!  Mag took tea with the Forbes, Inverernan. 

Thursday 17^th January

A severe thaw & then a frost.  Many of the mails due & no coach up Deeside so Eliza Ramsay must just be resigned to remain here. They all went out but me.  Lady Hay called here. E. Ramsay was asked to dine at Miss Brebners but declined.  Maggie went to see Mary Stephen whom we have found out to be a most deep deceiver. 

Friday 18^th

Frosty.  Mrs Gordon of Newton & Lady James called. The latter sat a long time with Mamma.  Willie & I were out a little and went to see Kate Forbes & Mrs Smith.  Mary Jane McGregor who has come from school came to see us with her friend Helen Tawse.

Saturday 19^th

A wet kind of day but still snowing.  Sat by the fire all day.  Mag went round to the Terrace to see MA.  I had knitted a pair of muffetees for Eliza Ramsay.  The mails are getting more regular. 

Sunday 20^th January 1850

Frosty.  We all went to church in the morning and at went in the old College church. We liked him very much indeed. I went to see MA between sermons.  I went to write in my room as usual. Aleck read aloud at night.

Monday 21st

Frosty.  We were all sitting quietly at work, when about 12 o’clock a carriage & four stopped at the door containing Jane & Captain Burnett Ramsay!  She came to get her teeth stopped & he to go to the assembly.  They dined at lunch & Tom Ramsay & Robert Burnett joined us then.  Jane carried off Eliza home with her at half past 4 o’clock having executed a great deal in a short space.  There was a tremendous bustle when they started.  Dear Kind E gave each of us three a pretty present.  May dined at the Terrace.  Jane brought in some of Tom R’s capital sketches. 

Tuesday 22^nd

A great thaw.  We sent out some little things by the Capt to the girls.  I went to a meeting  in St Mary’s about the Indian and Jewish Female missions.  It was very interesting. I then went to the Terrace & as J>A. & Fanny were coming home to tea, they made us stay dinner & come round with me after.  We allowed them to make toffy in our room for a treat.  Heard from Duncan who could not get away this mail, but was to start on the 3^rd Jany so he will arrive early in February.

Wednesday 23^rd January

Fine warm day consequently one requires a boat for the street.  Kate Leslie & I paid the Dentist a visit.  Mamma drove to the pier.  Mrs Skene & Jane Irvine & Carline Hay called. Willie & I then went to Don Cottage.

Thursday 24^th

Thaw.  Mamma again went to the pier & Kate & I to Mr. Dewar.  Mrs Lumsden,  Pitcaple & the Thomsons Banchory called. Willie took tea at the Terrace. A quantity of books were sent in by the Ramsays for us to read.  They are highly amusing.

Friday 25^th

After Willie & I had been at that dreadful penance at Dewars I went to see Maggie & Jeanie Thom & some poor bodies of their acquaintance. The Forbes Inverernan called. They have some thoughts of taking Arbeadie which I am sorry to say the Ramsays are going to leave & going to the continent perhaps in May”   Howe we shall miss them when we go back to the country again!!

Saturday 26^th

Frosty again & snow in the afternoon.   I felt like a heroine after turning my back on Mr Dewar for the last time. Willie & I went to see Mrs Brodie who was quite delighted with our call. Wrote letters at night.

Sunday 27^th January 1850

A little snow.   We all went to church. Mamma & I went to the Terrace afterwards. We then went again to church. Aleck read aloud as usual. 

Monday 28^th

Thaw. Duncan’s birthday.  This day eight years ago he came home, so happy among us all, now he is on his way but the family circle is broken, for we have lost the head.  Oh we more and more find out our loss, as time goes on.  Maggie & I went in the carriage to call at Old Aberdeen on the James Forbes and then we went to call on Janet. We had Duncan & Jane Anne to dinner.

Tuesday 29^th

Frosty again.  I have gone to sleep now with Mama.  I drove with mama to the Pier & have seldom seen the sea so rough.  We made a few more calls today.  The children, Kate Leslie & William went to the Panorama of Paris.  May went round to the Terrace. 

Wednesday 30^th

Fine, frosty.  We took Mary Anne  for a drive which did her good as she has not been able to go out for a long time.  Mrs Hadden  Union Grove called, also Mr. Hutchison. We then called at Mrs Miller’s & Miss Robertson’s, Mrs Skene’s, Mrs Watson,  Miss M. Young etc  I went to see Mrs Bannerman & took a quiet turn with Katie.  I saw the 20^th baby, a fortnight old!!!    Kate Leslie went to a ball given by Miss Farquharson & did not get home till three in the morning of

Thursday January 31^st

When she found that Mary Anne was ill, and they gave her clorophorm with which she was delighted as it saved her all suffering.  A very fine little boy was born at quarter to 7 o’clock and we have much cause of thankfulness that all went well with MA, who was much exhausted for some hours, but slept well & is I trust in a fair way of recovery.  Baby is a great fat fellow and I think is prettier than most oat his advance d age.  The children came round to tea with Miss Till and I returned with them on purpose to be by Mary Anne all night, as Kate is tired & Jeanie Thom is deaf!   May God bless this dear child & make it indeed one of His Own.  How warmly dear papa would have welcomed it had God spared him to see it.  I know all is best as it is.  I wrote several letters & one to meet Duncan at Southampton.  Mr. Forsyth made along call.

 

February 1850

Friday, 1^st February 1850

Fine. Mary Anne rested very well indeed and all goes on beautifully.  Mama sat with her for some hours & Mag & Willie dined at the Terrace.  Capt Burnett Ramsay sent a fine salmon to Mama & Patrick.  The Irvines Drum called on us. Will Mag & I also made calls on Mrs Carmichael, Granton Lodge, and Mrs Isabel Morrice & Mrs Macgregor.  Aleck got a newspaper today at 3 o’clock containing some news from the House of Lords at one o’clock.  14 hours from London beside printing the paper in that time.

Saturday 2^nd February 2

Fine. We were not out till the afternoon & then made some more calls. The children took an early dinner here.  I went to tea at the Terrace. Mary Anne is going on so well, & baby grows hourly and will be immense if he does not take it easier!!

Sunday 3^rd February 1850

Fine cold.  We twice went to church and had beautiful sermons.  I ran in to see Jessie Johnstone. Reading at night as usual. 

Monday 4^th

Very fine.  Saw in a Bombay paper that Duncan had started, so he will in all probability reach England in a day or two.  How delightful!  I went early to see MA & the baby.  The Leslies came in for a day to see Mary Anne & poor Mrs Innes who is I fear very ill indeed.  Mrs. D. Forbes & Mrs P. Pirie called also Mary Cumine & her little girl whom we were sorry to miss, but were all out enjoying the day.  May & I walked to see the new Railway Bridge at Ferry hill & Mama & Will went to the Pier.  May & Will called on the Miss Glennies, Miss Stills & Mrs W. Moir.  The children came to tea.

Tuesday 5^th

Wet after 12 o’clock. Had a line from Kate enclosing a note from Duncan written at Alexandria he having met Charles Forbes at Cairo, who first told him the sad news that awaited him in the latter at Alexandria.  Poor fellow he will be with us soon now as he is to come through France.  Kate Leslie spent an hour here in the afternoon and Willie went to be with MA as he was dining out at Mrs Mitchells.

Wednesday 6^th

Very windy.  The children had their dinner here, after coming from the Bible class at Dr Forsyth’s.  Mrs Innes & Miss Brebner with little ‘Cowie’ came to see us and little Charlie Call paid us a visit.  He is going to join his Aunts in Edinburgh.  Heard that Duncan the optition, in a fit of despair at his debts, shot himself.  What a very frightful thing.

Thursday 7^th

A sprinkling of snow & very cold.  Willie & I called on Mrs Lumsden Clova, mrs Burn, Mrs Clements Lumsden, Miss Grants Monymusk & Mrs Tawse.  Mamma & Mag had a drive & took Mary Cumine with them. I took tea at the Terrace. 

Friday 8^th

Damp but fine.  I went to see Mrs Hogarth but Mag got before me & took her out so I had just to come home.  Mary Cumine drank tea with us. We have heard nothing more of Duncan.

Saturday 9^th February

Fine.  M.A.’s birthday. Mag went out early. Mrs Meiklejohn called. Willie & I went first with Mama to the Terrace & then to call on the Miss Skenes & Mrs Monro.  Then May & Will called on the Ogilivies & Lady Dunbar. 

Sunday 10^th February 1850

Frosty.  I had a cold but all the others went to church.  I read my journal to Mama from the 3^rd October and we both had a good cry, and yet I am so astonished to find how ill it expressed my feelings during our trial.  Willie & I sat up late at night recounting once again all the last illness of our best of fathers and many other recollections of him from our infancy.  We were so much younger than all the others that we were particular pets to the last.

Monday 11^th

Stormy.  Maggie was invited to pay a quiet visit to Mrs Thomson of Banchory so Mr F called for her & took her there in his carriage.  Had a little note from Duncan at Marseilles.  He had nearly been wrecked in the French steamer which ran ashore when the watch were asleep.  It might have been serious.  I slept with Mamma.

Tuesday 12^th

Fine cold.  Jane & Burnett Ramsay arrived here to breakfast on their way to Edinbro to see Mrs Burnett who is still unwell. Aleck had a beautiful Valentine sent. He wonders who sent it.  Perhaps I could tell him!! If I chose.  Mama took a drive with Willie. Jane does admire our new baby. They left us by half past 12 train. Jane wanted some of us pay Eliza a visit in her absence as she is far from well, but as we soon expect Duncan we are not to go just yet.  The Mactiers Durris called.

Wednesday 13^th February

Fine, frosty.  Duncan arrived safe & well in London on Monday.  Oh how much have we to bless God for.  Maggie came back from Banchory.  I took a little walk with Kate Bannerman.  May &  Willie went to Seaton where there is a large party staying & then to call on the M’Phersons.  Kate Leslie is so gay. Out every night.

Thursday 14^th

Thaw & Cold.  Heard from Duncan & wrote and worked all morning.  It became so fine that after Mag & Will had made a few calls we had a short turn & were again joined by Kate B. Willie took tea at the Terrace.  Read & wrote at night & had great fun composing a return Valentine for Kate Leslie.

Friday 15^th 

Very fine.  We drove down early to the Pier and all enjoyed the delightful breeze.  We three called on Mrs Robertson Balgownie and on Emmeline Forbes, both parties received us most cordially.  We had a quiet evening. 

Saturday 16^th

Cold & dry

I took Fanny for a walk & went to call at Granton Lodge and then to the Terrace.

Sunday 17^th February 1850

Fine. Willie & I went for a walk & went to Church three times!  & Mama twice. We did not much like Mr Wood’s sermon in the evening.  I called on Jessy between services.  Our ‘characters’ told from our handwriting by mr Warren arrived today. It is quite wonderful the accuracy with which they are delineated.

Monday 18^th

Very fine.  Mary Lindsay made a long call. We went after lunch to call at Waterton and I got a present of some very fine young rose trees from Aleck Pirie.  I took tea at the Terrace & we discussed our characters over! 

Tuesday 19^th

Fine windy day.  Pat, Will & I went to Inchmarlo at 12 o’clock and we went down tot eh church yard to see the grave.  Oh how often has he been with us two his ‘dovies’ as he called us always.  And now we two together look on the ‘silent tomb’ where he lies & shall not hear that kindly voice again.  We called at Arbeadie & saw Capt & Eliza Ramsay and the n walked home to Inchmarlo but I unfortunately lost my boa on the way.  I hope to recover it yet. We did not take tea till 9 o’clock as so many men came in to speak to Patrick. We sleot in Mama’s room & spoke a long time: for 5 weeks we anxiously nursed & watched dear Papa in it. 

Wednesday 20^th

Cold wind. We went out after breakfast to the West avenue, the garden & farm all looking rather desolate having only emerged from the snow a week ago!  We arranged some things in the house & came back to town to a late tea.

Thursday 21^st February

Rather stormy.  I went to St Marys & had a good sermon from Mr. Ross. Maggie & I called at Banchory House on Mrs Thomson & then on Miss Marian Skene.  Heard from D to say they are coming tonight!  We sent off the carriage to Portlethen to meet them & they arrived safe about 7 o’clock.   We had far too much to say to be able to talk much, so we just looked at each other. Duncan is very little changed, thinner & darker but as kindly as ever. How much we all missed our dear Father tonight but how very much we have still to thank God for.  I slept with mama who rested well.

Friday 22^nd 

Wet. Duncan is just making the acquaintance of his two youngest daughters. We took him round to see Mary Anne & her babes and then we took an eccentric walk down the street in the rain, to show Duncan to whoever might be out!  Called on Jessy Johnstone. Pat came to dinner & we chatted merrily all the evening over old stories. 

Saturday 23^rd

Fine. Mamma took Mary Anne out for her first drive, accompanied by Kate and Maggie went to Westfield with D after which Aleck got hold of him & walked him about till the poor youth was quite done out, as people never walk in India.  Willie & I with Katie B walked far out King Street, it was so fine. 

Sunday 24^th February 1850

Fine.  We all went to church & Mary Anne in the afternoon. She walked as far as this on her way home the carriage not having come in time from St Paul’s .  I sat up in my room at night.  Aleck read aloud as usual.

Monday 25^th

Fine.  Mamma took the Miss Chalmers for a drive to Nigg with which they were delighted. Duncan, Kate & the bairns went in a cab to the pier where we three & Aleck were to follow them, but they found it too cold to wait so came back.  We met D who made Willie & me walk all over the Links & to the Broad hill with him and Aleck & Mag were left to enjoy themselves on the Pier!  We missed several callers.  Had a nice enjoyable evening. 

Tuesday 26^th

Fine.  Mamma to MA and Kate for a drive.  We were out shopping & making calls and met Mr Robertson Foveran about 50 times I dare say!  We bought each a pretty Bog oak bracelet, but paid more than we wished for it.  Pat Mary Anne  & Kate Leslie dined with us today. 

Wednesday 27^th

Fine.  Kate, Will & I called at Grandholm, Elmfield & Broadford and then we two took a little walk together.  Mary Cumine & May did the same. Aleck, Kate, Mag & I went to see the Panorama of Paris at night & were so pleased. The band is good & military music always has an effect on me.  Mama & Duncan had a nice quiet chat together which they enjoyed. 

Thursday 28^th

Very fine. Mama & I went to st Marys in the morning & went to see the graves of my brother & sisters who died long long ago, before I was born.  Mr & Mrs Skene called. Willie & I called on Mrs Milne and then for Jean Angus and at the Industrial school, where we herd the children sing a hymn so prettily.  We all, but Mama went to the Christening of our little nephew and he is named ‘William Leslie’ after his grandpapa.  It behaved well just squalled enough for luck.  I came back & stayed with Mama.  Lady Hay called. The rest stayed to dine,  Mr & Mrs Will Leslie & Walter with ourselves.  Dr Williamson & the Minister were present.  I read the ‘Old Dower House’ at night. 

MARCH 1850

Friday, 1^st March

Fine, windy.  Maggie & I went with some other ladies to the Ragged school in Sugar House Lane.  It is wonderful to see such little savages brought to such good order.  After lunch we three called on Mrs McGregor and then went on to the new & beautiful railway bridge the view from which is splendid.  Willie & I then went to Miss McInnes to arrange with her for getting a nice  picture of Willie for myself.  Jane Anne has caught the measles and been in bed since Tuesday. It is a mild kind, but still it is trying for MA to have the prospect of a sick house, when she is not strong.  Miss Brebner made a long call on Mama.  Aleck dined out at the Burns.

Saturday 2^nd

Very fine indeed.  Mama & I had a walk & Kate , Mag & Will went to Murtle to call but they had been away a month!  I had a turn with Charlotte Pirie & then with Kate B.  Duncan dined at the Terrace.

Sunday 3^rd March 1850

Damp. We all went twice to church. Mr & Mrs William Leslie came to see us between sermons & stayed to lunch. William came with us to church afterwards. Duncan read a very good sermon by Simeon. 

Monday 4^th

Very cold. The Thomsons of Banchory called. Will & I went to Miss McInnes for Will’s first sitting.  We then did some shopping. D & K busy returning calls all day.

Tuesday 5^th

Fine after 11 o’clock.  I was ito have accompanied Pat & Duncan to Inchmarlo today, but it rained in the morning. After lunch we two had a delightful walk & heard the larks singing beautifully. Mary Ross called before breakfast to invite us to take tea with them quietly. Aleck came to fetch us at night from Granton. 

Wednesday 6^th

Very warm. I went to a meeting in St Mary’s to arrange the foundation of the Elders Daughters Association in connection with the West church congregation.  Willie was obliged to give Miss McInnes a sitting so could not come. Mary Lindsay called  and May & Willie went out & left me to entertain her.  I afterwards went to see Mary Anne, none of the other bairns having caught measles and JA is better.  I wish Mary Anne herself was stronger. She is so asthmatical. Pat dined with us and we had a splendid salmon from B Ramsay.

Thursday 7^th

Very fine.  I wrote some letters & worked all the morning. Kate Leslie, Willie & Iset out with the full intention of walking to old Aberdeen to call on the Miss Forbes but we found ourselves incapable of such an exertion so we bought ‘For Auld Langsaine’ each a cake of Miss Bain’s short bread &* sallied to the pier where we sat cogitating for a long time. Lady James Hay called,. We were so tired when we came home that we were glad of a cup of tea to recruit ourselves.

Friday 8^th

Fine. We drove to old Aberdeen & called onMiss Forbes & saw some of her leather work. Kate Leslie went to a grand party at Balgownie Lodge & said that the houe & everything was beautiful. Mrs. John Leith called with one of her girlies. Mary Cumine called and then did a little shopping. 

Saturday 9^th

Fine. Pat, Mary Anne & Kate went to Drumrossie where they were most rapturously received by poor little Kate & Mary who have been away so long & it will be some time before they are brought home owing to the measles.  We had Mary Cumine at tea & had a nice chatty evening.  I have chosen a most beautiful piece of worsted work for a chair which I anticipate great pleasure in working.  Poor Mr James Hadden died this morning. He has been ill for months. We sympathise deeply with his poor wife, who has no children to help her to bear her grief.  She must be very desolate but the Lord will sustain all those that put their trust in Him. 

Sunday 10^th March

Very windy. We all went to church twice, except Mama. May was so rheumatic in her head that she did not go out.  Duncan read a sermon and Mama slept diligently the whole time. Aleck as usual read prayers.

Monday 11^th March

Cold & raw.  Maggie & I went early to the Ragged school & each took a class & gave the simplest instruction we could for 2 hours. The children then sang a hymn.  Willie ave another sitting. We two with K. Bannerman then took a nice walk round by Ashley. Capt & Mrs Cumine called to say goodbye as they leave this tomorrow for their own new house near Penny cuik. 

Tuesday 12^th

Fine. Mary Cumine brought her little girl to see us early, but Willie & I had gone out shopping etc etc and Willie went to Miss McInnes. We sent the carriage to meet Pat & Mary Anne at Kintore as they came home again.  Duncanie has caught measles now. 

Wednesday 13^th March

Cold.  I forgot to say I had my first singing lesson from my old master Signor Verri yesterday.  We made Duncan & Kate come with us to the Ragged school with which they were delighted & he gave the teacher some money for frocks for the little girls. They called at Banchory House & on Mrs Mitchell & Mrs Leith.

Thursday 14^th

Fine. Will & I had a nice walk and we took Minnie with us & called at Granton Lodge with her. We gave her a parasol which enchanted her.

Friday 15^th

Damp showery.  We went to the Ladies’ sale for behoof the Deaf & Dumb Institution.  We contributed a little work & bought a good deal. It was not such a pretty sale as the “Indigent Gentlewomen’s” last year. I gave Miss McInnes my first sitting or rather standing.

Saturday 16^th

Gloomy.  I could not go to my school because Signor Verri came, so Willie went instead.  The Irvines made a long call. Maggie & W called on Mrs Clements Lumsden & Miss Farquharson. In the afternoon we two called on Mrs Mitchell. Miss F asked us to tea on Monday & to take a walk to the Railway bridge.

Sunday 17^th March 1850

Cold.  Our dearest father would have been 77 today had he now been with us. On looking back to his birthday last year, I well remember how he enjoyed his visit to Seaton where he spent the whole day & so merrily told us at night how the two Miss Chalmers, Mr & Mrs Duncan Forbes & himself had crowded into one cab coming home.  We now begin to think of him more as he used to be when quite well instead of during his painful illness.  Alas these dear happy days in which he derived so much pleasure with us cannot return but all was for the best and we must not wish it otherwise.  We had a Mr Hamilton from Madras preaching whom we liked extremely.  There is a deputation of Ministers here so in the afternoon Al, W & I went to hear Dr Crawford of St Andrews Edin preaching at the old College church.  We were much delighted with both.  In the evening Aleck read a sermon aloud.

Monday 18^th

Dark cold day. Signor Verri came at 12 and kept me singing for an hour & a half till I was as hoarse as a crow.  Willie went to a meeting of the Lay association at 1 and I followed as soon as I could and was in time to hear Mr Hamilton’s beautiful speech. It was crowded. 

Tuesday 19^th

Very unusually, Anne does not seem to have made an entry on this day.  Ed.

Wednesday 20^th March

Fine.  I sat a perfect age to Miss McInnes. We then went to enquire after an old woman Farquharson in Castle Street. We were caught in a shower and turned our cloaks outside in!!!   I forgot to say that Kate & Aleck dined at Westfied and Kate caught a horrible cold.  

Thursday March 21^st

Showery.  None of us went out & I worked all day at my chair. We and Miss Mary Young calling a long time.  Maggie & I went to take tea quietly at Miss Farquharson’s where the Miss Lumsdens  and the Miss Thomsons were. We never remarked it was nearly 11 o’clock when we got up to come home so busy chatting. 

Friday 22n March

Cold.  Another singing lesson & another sitting both which tired me much.  Frances getting measles now. A  Kate & Duncan  both croaking with their wretched colds. 

Saturday 23^rd

Cold.  None of us went out.  Miss Bicknell , the schoolmistress, called to enquire the character of our laundress.  Writing & working all day. Duncan & Kate ought to have dined at Seaton but they were too unwell.  Aleck came home from Buchan. 

Sunday 24^th  March 1850

Very stormy & snow.   I went to church with the gentlemen in the morning & we both went in the afternoon & had a beautiful sermon in the Parable of the unjust steward. Aleck read a sermon and prayers at night as usual. We heard that poor Lady Elphinstone has lost her oldest girlie in a contagious fever.

Monday 25^th

Snow which melted with the sun.  I had to sit again to Miss McInnes, went out shopping for Kate.  Bought “Dodd’s  Beauties of Shaespear” for myself. Frances is now as red as a rose & going on well I hear. May told Aleck some news which interests us much.  I hope all will prosper!

Tuesday 26^th

Cold & snowy. Willie & I called on Mrs Skene & I on Mrs Hogarth. D & K’s colds still very bad.  Nothing particular happened.

Wednesday 27^th

Cold & snowy. Willie & I called on Mrs Skene & I on Miss McInnes.  Did some commissions for Kate who went to church & caught more cold.  She and Duncan went to seaton and Old Aberdeen yesterday.

Thursday 28^th

Rather milder.  I went with MA to Seaton. Capt Forbes & the McPhersons then Mag & Willie went to Viewfield after which we two met Capt Christy who made us promise to see them all off in the Railway from Aberdeen on Saturday. Pat came round here to dine.

Good Friday 1850

Dry & cold.  They were all busy packing & were very tired and Kate’s cold worse.  Mamma & I drove to the Pier and the Bridge of Don.   Willie & I were out   MA has a bad throat,  and Duncan & Kate and three nurses.

Saturday 30^th March

Cold, windy.  We went down with the whole party of souls in all to the station to start by a special train as the chairman Lord James was going south.  Miss Brebner & Mr Innes were found there and all the Directors!  We cheered them & wished it all good luck. Sorry to part the children who have been with us nearly 10 months.  Mag will enjoy her trip. Another singing lesson. A call from Mr Innes & Mrs Gordon, Deebank.  Oh how much this volume contains that interests me.  What shall I have to write in the next one. 

Sunday 31^st

We went to church altho it poured with rain. Aleck read aloud at night as usual  We had no letter from our friends. There was a dreadful gale in the night. 

This was the end of one leather-bound volume. Ed.

 

APRIL 1850

Monday 1^st April 1850

Wet.  I hope altho this book is begun today, that I shall not prove myself an April fool!  The Railway was opened for the Public  today, but our people travelled by it on Saturday to Edinburgh, where they arrived safe and comfortably.  I went at 12 o’clock alone to spend the day with Mary Lindsay at Grandholm. We had not much to say but between music, chatting and eating ! passed the day. 

Tuesday 2^nd 

Wet.  Mr & Mrs Leslie & William came into town today. Aleck took the laird to the station where he was delighted to see the first railway train he ever saw in his life – 80 years of age!  We were glad to get some very interesting letters from Maggie today. Aleck dined at the William Lumsdens.

Wednesday 3^rd  April

Smiles & tears in the way of weather.  We went to church twice as it was our Fast day. Pat walked to the station & says that from counting the receipts of the half penny toll on the suspension bridge, more than 10,000 people have crossed it today to view the arrival & departures of the trains. It is a novelty to the inhabitants of Aberdeen.

Thurssday 4^th April

Rather misty.    We took a drive with mama who also called on Mrs Leslie at the Terrace.  Mrs W. Pirie & Harriet called today.  We were so surprised – Miss Sophia Grant Drumminor called.  Another letter from our travellers who left Edinbro on Tuesday morning & would reach Malvern on Wednesday night. 

Friday 5^th

Fine.  Mary Ross called and I have arranged to teach her Signor Verri’s exercises as he teaches me!  Then went to Miss MacInnes how is trying to touch up Willie’s likeness a little. They all say mine is exactly like me.  We went for a drive with mama to the bridge of Don & then called on Mrs Keith & recommended one of the young ladies to patronize Signor Verri. Mrs W Pirie & Harriet dined here & JA and Duncan came to tea.  I forgot to say that Aleck Pirie joined us at tea last night.

Saturday 6^th

Fine.  We went to church in the morning & heard mr Thomson Belhelvie whom we always like & then Willie & I went to the East Church n the afternoon.  Mary Anne’s throat is so bad she cannot get out of bed or speak.  Pat went to Inchmarlo for the day.  Our pictures came tonight, everybody recognises mine directly. 

Sunday 7^th April 1850

Fine.  Communion Sabbath. We went early to church and to the first table. Dr Forsyth was very impressive in serving it.  Mr Bower assisted Pat & I went in the evening to the East Church & heard a splendid sermon from Mr Fairweather of Nigg. 

Monday 8^th April

Fine all the morning. We went to church & Mr Hutchieson preached. We then went to wee little Jessy and afterwards called on Mrs Grant Drumminor . Mr Hutchieson & Dr Moir called here.  I took tea at the Terrace & found MA no better, not able to eat or speak.  Pat therefore did not go to Crathes as he intended.   Aleck dined at Capt John Leslie. 

Tuesday 9^th April

Fine in the afternoon.  Mamma & Mrs Leslie went to Hillside to see if they thought it would do for Pat to take for the summer & they returned with a very  favourable impression of its merits. Willie & I were out a little.  I had a lesson from Signor Verri.

Wednesday 10^th

Fine. We told Pat a piece of interesting news which greatly astonished him & then went to tell Mary Anne & as luck would have it, Mrs Leslie sat two hours busily talking , while we two were full of impatience!  MA was equally amazed!  I am afraid to trust it distinctly written down in my journal yet, but I hope a good time is coming!  The two Rosses came to tea & I gave Mary a music lesson. 

Thursday 11^th

Fine. Willie & I walked to Westfield.  The children & Miss Till dined with us early, during which the Miss Chalmers called here.    I then took my two nieces for a walk & we went to the Station & were joined by Pat who showed them all over it.  Pat & Aleck took Dr Williamson with them & dined at Banchory.  Mrs Thomson & Aleck were very confidential.  Mrs Leslie took tea here with Mama & W & I went to the Terrace. Uncle Alexander called a long time in the morning.  Letters from Malvern. 

Friday 12^th April

Cold.  I had another lesson from Verri who stayed to copy music for me.  Aleck left per early coach for Aboyne. We had a horrible day of cleaning dining room & bedrooms.  Harriet Pirie dined here.  We were all tired. 

Saturday 13^th

Cold & dull.  Mamma took the Miss Chalmers to see a train start and come in.  This day the ‘Lady Franklin’ vessel having been called for by a government ship, started on its interesting mission to try and discover if Sir John Franklin, etc etc may stil be iced up in the Polar regions where his  & another ship have been lost sight of for 4 years!  Capt Penny we hear has great hopes of finding them but I fear he is too sanguine.  I believe the Pier was crowded with people seeing the departure.  They have each 5 years provisions on board that they may afford to give away to the poor lost ones if they succeed in their efforts.  It is not likely that all they who left so merrily will  return, but I hope God will bless their endeavours & guide them safely.  We called on the Miss Cumines, Miss Robertson, Miss Brebner and on Emelin Forbes who is staying at Mrs Urquharts. We had a turn with Mrs Bannerman & Katie. 

Sunday 14^th April 1850

Cold & damp.  We went to church and Prof Martin preached in the morning.  Dr. F gave us a beautiful sermon on the words ‘feeding lambs’ etc etc and in the prayer alluded to the ship leaving this port on such an adventure asking a blessing on the efforts. Willie read aloud at night.

Monday 15^th

Damp dark day.  Mary Ross came & had a short singing lesson from me. I read all day most idly, nothing particular happened. Wrote a letter to May.

Tuesday 16^th

Gloomy.  Could not get out.  Mrs Leslie called early. We sent her in our carriage to Kintore where she met little Katie & Mary who came to stay here instead of going to their measly house.  Willie dined at the Terrace where two or three gentlemen were at dinner. Duncanie was over all day wiring his sisters. I had a lesson from Signor Verri today & I think I sang very well!!

Wednesday

Showers but very fine.  I went down to the Ragged school & while there Sheriff Watson came in & talked to me about it. We went for a drive & got the whole of a thunder shower, which cleared when we came back.  The Miss Cumines & Mrs Carmichael called. We were glad we were at home.

Thursday 18^th 

Sun & showers & warm.  Mama & I went to St Mary’s and heard a beautiful lecture from Mr McTaggart of Greyfriars on the Parable of the Sower.  Willie & I went to call at Denmore & just as we were driving away we met Mrs Moir so jumped out & turned with her. The two girls are still from home. We ordered in stores for Inchmarlo for we send out the luggage on Saturday. There is a report today that Sir John Franklin has arrived safe in China!  Heard today from Emma Forbes that her brother George is to be married to Miss Brand.  Wrote to Anna Adams at night. 

Friday 19^th April

Fine.  Busy packing all the morning.  I had another singing lesson.  Willie & I went to the Ragged school.  I afterwards walked up the street with Caroline Hay. Willie took tea at the Terrace. Old Mary Hicks called & told us how ill poor Thomas is. Two9 cart loads of things went off to Inchmarlo at night.  A good band played before our house tonight very prettily. 

Saturday 20^th

Lovely dat at Inchmarlo, indifferent in Aberdeen.  Willie & I started at half past 7, taking two servants hwom we left to put the house to rights.  We arranged everything very nicely & set the cleaning agoing, had a walk to the  garden & farm.  The greenhouse is in great beauty. We left for town about half 6 in the evening, saw Jane & Burnett Ramsay for a moment at their gate. 

Sunday 21^st April 1850

Windy. Went twice to church.  The afternoon sermon was very good.  ‘He is a fool that scoffeth at sin’ was the text.  Pat left for London yesterday. Al read aloud at night. 

Monday 22^nd

Cold & windy.  We went for a short drive & then called on Mrs Milne who was as usual most amusing & then on Miss MA Skene.  We did not come home till nearly 6 o’clock having mistaken an hour. Mary Anne came and dined with us.

Tuesday 23^rd

Finer.  Made Mama take a drive to Waterton.  I gave another music lesson. Miss Farquharson Ballogie called yesterday.  Harriet Pirie dined here.  I had a kind note from Miss Robertson asking us to take tea quietly so we went at 8 o’clock.  The Leslies came to town on their way South & then they go to Paris & Switzerland.   Wrote some letters.

Wednesday 24^th

Cold east wind.  I had my last lesson of Signor Verri who wept when I said goodbye!   We all, viz W & I, two Miss Tills, MA, three children, Walter Leslie & Alec Dunbar, went as far as Portlethan to see Hillside.  Lady Elphinstone & Harriet, with Mr & Mrs Leslie & Kate, went South.  Hillside is a capital house, but the ugliest situation I almost ever saw.  MA & Walter dined here when we came back.

Thursday 25^th

Cold. We called at Westfield, drove to the bridge of Dee & then took Mama to see the Ragged School as I had some books to give which I promised them.  Miss MacInnes called to see us & our likenesses. Walter Leslie dined here.

Friday 26^th

Cold but fine.  Mary Anne, Willie and I went to call at Kingcause where we saw Miss Boswell .  There is a beautiful picture of a snow storm there which I always admire.  It is such a nice old place. We then called at Banchory House but Mrs T was out.  We had some shopping afterwards with MA on behalf of the children!

Saturday

Another cold fine day.  Willie & I made several calls viz on Miss Brebner, Mrs Ogilvie etc.  The Ramsays came into town and called to say farewell.  We were so sorry to lose them. Willie & I walked down to the Inches to see a vessel launched, but we waited in vain and found it had been done before we went there.  We saw the steamer start and kissed and waved our hands to the Ramsays and then discovered Capt Forbes RA who I fancy appreciated these manifestations personally!

Sunday 28^th April 1850

Cold.  We all went to church in the morning.  JA & I started to go to St Pauls in the afternoon, but did not feel well & turned in to Jessy Johnstone’s house, who gave me a cup of tea before I came home again.  Aleck as usual read aloud.

Monday 29^th

Finer . Mama’s birthday & little Fanny’s.  Uncle Alex called on us yesterday.    We were so glad to hear the railway meeting in London went off satisfactorily. Aleck Pirie distinguished himself at it.  We called at 8 different houses but only found three at home. When at Miss Murray’s we saw Mrs Young, Feugh , who has just returned from Exeter.  I took tea with MA.

Tuesday 30^th April

Rather warmer.  We called at Union Grove.  Mrs Moir, Mrs Lindsay & Mrs Mitchell  & Leith,.  Aunt Alex & Miss Logie called here, also Mrs Charles Chalmers.  Mary Anne & the children & Misses Till came to tea and as we were quietly seated, some one observed the chimney on fire.  We sent for the Mason and in less than half an hour the whole drawing room was dismantled and the carpet & the chimney swept.  It continued to burn at the back of the grate for some hours, but there was no danger. We cooked up the little drawing room to be very comfortable & were none the worse of our activity & fright.  It was almost fixed that Aleck & Willie join the Leslies in Paris as soon after the 13^th as possible.

MAY 1850

Wednesday 1^st May 1850

Fine & sunny.  I forgot to say I had a delightfully interesting letter from May giving an account of her pleasant visit to Ledbury to the Biddulphs.  We called early at Granton, Westfield & Mrs Skenes after lunch.    The Bannermans called and then we went to see Miss grant Monymusk.  The carriage met us & then we drove to Don Cottage & Mrs James Forbes.  Duncan came to tea & as I had to take some things to a poor blind girlie, he came with me to the Asylum.  They were practising sacred music,  Miss Keith playing the organ. It was beautiful & their poor blind eyes were raised in adoration and their faces were so expressive.  Wrote a long letter to Mag at night.

Thursday 2^nd

Fine.  The Queen gave birth to  little prince on the 30^th all doing well. We were very busy packing.  I had a visit from the Dr who gave me something to strengthen me a little (not that I am ill, only not very strong).  I went three times down the street messages.  We dined and started at half past three o’clock for dear Inchmarlo. We came up the South side on Mamma’s account.  She was most wonderfully composed tho’ of course it was very trying to come back here without him who so enjoyed it.  The whole illness came so vividly back to our minds.  In time we shall be able to think more of the happy days of health we have all passed together with him here. 

Friday May 3^rd

Showery.  Mamma slept very well indeed considering. We have found the house all nicely cleaned and ready for use!  It will take a day or two before we settle down into our places.  Got some flowers in the garden. 

Saturday 4^th May

Bright & cold.  Mrs Innes , Miss Brebner & Mrs Thos Innes called. Aleck came out to dinner, but it hailed so much we did not get out at all.  I read “The Wilmingtons”.  It is very nice. 

Sunday 5^th May 1850

Hail & a little thunder.  Aleck, will & I went to church.  Mr Innes qws so kind in his manner, I felt if very much.  I had a letter from Kate very interesting;  she told us of an arrival at Malvern. We went out after tea for a short walk. We sat some time talking in the greenhouse. Aleck as usual read aloud at night.

Monday 6^th May

Cold. We had a most undecided letter from May. She wishes to go with them to Paris. We wrote letters all day long & I was quite tired of it.  I had a note from Fanny Farquharson announcing her marriage to a Mr Faithfull a clergyman and asking us to be her brides maids. She seems very happy indeed at her prospect.   Aleck went off before breakfast.

Tuesday 7^th May

Fine. Dr Thom called.  We sat in the Library.  I have unpacked my harp & mean to practise well.  Wrote to Eliza R  . We went to visit our friends at East Mains in the afternoon. I read aloud while they worked.

Wednesday 8^th

Warmer, showery.  I practised a long time. We were disappointed by receiving no letters today. Miss Gertrude Vass called. She was loaded with jewelry & is very vulgar in my opinion.  Mama & I went down to the churchyard to see the grave.  It rained all the time, but we were so glad to go there and all so neatly finished & draped.  It was a hard trial for poor Mama, but she wished to go & feels much pleased now.  I couldn’t help wondering which of us will next be laid in the quiet resting place. The sound fo the river was so sweet.

Thursday 9^th

Bright sun, cold wind.  Had more letters today which I answered. Mr. Hutchinson called & then Miss M. Burnett.  I took Mama for a short walk & then went to see the Mores who have another  baby of a week old. Willie has a cold & we made her put on a mustard plaster last night.

Friday 10^th Fine, warmer. We came down to sit in the drawing room today/  I had a long interesting letter from, Jane Ramsay today which I sent down to Miss Burnett, that she might read it to old Mrs Forbes.  I sent MA’s capital letter on tomay & hope she will profit by it.   I went down to see Sandy Milne’s wife, after first taking Mama & then Willie for a short turn.

Saturday 11^th May.

Very fine here, cold at Aberdeen where we went after breakfast.    We went round to the Terrace to talk over some letters we had from Maggie about her joining the party to go to Paris. We do not approve of it.  We then went down to get a few things.  Pat arrived from London, quite sick of Railway nosiness. We went round to see him after tea, but left Willie packing up her traps for her journey. Aleck is in great force. 

Sunday 12^th May 1850    Cold.  We went twice to church. Aleck read aloud at night. Willie & I spent a very idle evening talking instead of reading what we ought to have done.

Monday 13^th

Fine in the forenoon.  Aleck worked hard in the office all the morning and after all arrangements were completed we had a hurried lunch and drove off with them to the Station.  Walter Leslie also left today, as he is just about to start for NS Wals.  I was very sorry to part with Willie as we shall be rather dull. Foveran also went as far as Edinburgh with them and Miss Till’s sister went away.  I went round to a children’s tea drinking at the Terrace & played for them .  Pat stayed with Mama. 

Tuesday 14^th May

Poured in the morning & not a drop at Inchmarlo where we came out in the afternoon bringing Pat, Fanny & Duncanie.  We all had amazing appetites for a heavy tea. Fanny slept with mama.  I forgot to say that yesterday we had letters of a most important kind from Malvern , which very nearly concerns the happiness of one of our party there.  Most earnestly do I pray & trust that every happiness & blessing will follow them. We were glad to be able to talk it over before Al & Willie left.  They mean to get there on Wednesday for one day, then go to London and Folkestone to cross to Paris on Saturday. 

Wednesday 15^th May

Fine.  Had letters from our travellers from Edin.  They had been very merry.  Walter had given Willie a magnificent bouquet.  I took the children for a walk. George drove out Miss Stuart the work woman who is to be fully employed  here!  We gathered a few flowers. 

Thursday 16^th

Fine. We had a letter from Mr. Fraser today and Mamma at once answered it.  Mr & Mrs Thomson came up to see us most kindly & we all congratulated each other on the prospect of our being more closely united some day.  We talked the whole time of Arthur and Maggie for I must bring the mysterious hints that have dropped occasionally from my pen to light now and say at once that we expect God Willing that in due time Maggie will become Mrs Fraser and it gives us all the greatest satisfaction, as he seems so good & so worthy of her.   Dear Maggie we long to see her, and it is to be regretted that our family bereavement alone prevented our long ere this meeting with our new brother.  Mr Innes called just before the Thomsons left.    They stayed to our early dinner and I had a walk with Mr Th when he told me much about Arthur.  I hope he is as nice as Mr Th himself! 

Friday 17^th

Fine. No letters from my dearest Willie.  I wrote to Harriet Blane & Anna Adams. We drove to the village & up the road.  I called on the Beslls &  read Jane Ramsay’s letter to them, which delighted them.   We three children had a walk up the river & amused ourselves throwing stones!

Saturday 18^th May

Fine.  We three  had a lovely walk before breakfast – the birds singing & the ground in the woods covered with flowers.  We had an amazing breakfast of porridge.  Thre were a number of nice letters and Al & W’s account of Arthur which was delightful. They all get on beautifully.  We wrote several letters.  We drove to the village & then to Cairnton.  The children & I walked home in a shower.  Had a very heavy tea. 

Sunday 19^th May 1850

Cool.  Mama not very well. We three went to church & had a beautiful sermon on the duties of parents.  The Sabbath scholars had an address in the evening.  Letters both from May & Willie so nice. Willie was then in London (Friday).  I went out to the garden with Mama. Read aloud to the children & talked to them. 

Monday 20^th

Most refreshing rain.  Letters from Dover dated Friday night. Willie had had a delightful meeting with our darling old governess Miss Thornton and they had so much to say they scarce knew how to begin. Oh how we loved her. I hope she will come to see us sometime.  They flitted from one place to another in the city getting passports, money, etc.  Went to the House of commons with Him, met Mr Fred Holland etc etc and Arthur’s brother John kindly called for them.  They walked on Dover cliff.  In passing through Cheltenham, they called on Mrs Coats & lunched there & walked about. 

Tuesday 21^st

Very ot.  The children & I set out to make some calls. Old Mrs Forbes admitted me to her bedroom and was very kind. She told me of the sudden death  by apoplexy of poor Mr James Fergusson yesterday.  He travelled with Al & W in the train from Perth.  Alas his poor loving sisters, how I feel for them.   We then went to dee bank where I left the children to lay while I ran up to see Mrs Young.  Pat surprised us in the evening by his arrival.  He told us of the death of poor Miss Logie yesterday at Waterton.  The last piece of business Aleck did on the Monday before leaving was to make & deliver her Will.  Pour Aunt feels it sadly.

Wednesday 22^nd May

Equally fine.  After sending Willie another letter, we all accompanied Pat round by Dalhaikie to see the new improvement.  He had been at a Parish meeting. I admire that neat pretty garden of Asmith’s at Craiglash.  Had a chatty evening.  Mrs Hutchieson & Mrs Young called. 

Thursday 23^rd

Fine. Writing as usual till I am quite sick of it. After our early dinner the children & I went & called at Mavis Bank and then to Raemoir & they played with Alickie Innes while I talked myself breathless inside to Mr & Mrs T Innes & Mrs Alex & Mary Leith.  I made Mama take a walk in the  evening & we saw the cows milked.

Friday 24^th

Fine.  More writing to Malvern & Aberdeen. After dinner we went to see some of our people & two new babies.  It was a lovely afternoon.  We went to the garden at night.  I wonder what dear W is doing.

Saturday 25^th

Rainy.  It was much needed.  Had the pleasure of letters from Paris. They enjoy themselves so much.  The Hays & Gaudins were still there & have been very kind indeed.  They are sightseeing and shopping at a grast rate.  I cannot write down all their plans.  Wrote more letters, till I am quite tired.

Sunday 26^th May 1850

Showery.  We went to church & had a beautiful sermon suited to the season of the year.  He drew such very admirable lessons, if we would only profit by them.  Mr James Burnett was in church, but I did not speak to him.  I read aloud after dinner to the children & also at night.

Monday 27^th

Fine.  We went into town after breakfast.  Had a letter from May here and also one in Aberdeen. She is in great spirits.  Pat insisted on our going out per rail to dine at Hillside.  I romped with the children!  I called and announced May’s marriage (intended) to Mrs Bannerman.  Called at Granton Lodge & I also met Foveran who enquired how our travellers got on after he left them!  I wrote to Maggie when I came back. 

Tuesday 28^th

Fine. Mary Anne & JA accompanied Pat from Hillside & breakfasted with us.  I made several calls, but only found Mrs McGregor. I went to tell old Thomas & Mary whose manifestations of delight were unbounded.  We started at 4 o’clock & arrived at home to tea. 

Wednesday 29^th

Fine. Writing as usual and then J & I went round the Cairnton river walk calling on John Strachan & Mrs Collie. When at the gate the Raemoirs drove up & made us jump in & then they made such a long call we thought they meant to stay to tea.  I took Mr I down the west approach which he had not before seen. He highly approved of it.

Thursday 30^th

Very warm.  I went to announce our news at May’s request at Banchory Lodge.  Met Miss Murray on the road, who is on a visit at Feugh.  We then called on Mrs. Farquharson, Monaltrie at Arbeadie.  It was so odd to be on my ps & qs.  Pheww!  Mrs Thomas Burnett is staying there. We did not go out till the evening & then took Mama round by Glencommon. 

Friday 21^st May

Equally fine.  Went some messages for Mama to East Mains & called on lots of our friends thee & astonished them all by telling of M’s marriage.  Pat & MA came across from Hillside. We sent to meet them at Mary Culter & they called at Durris. We took all a walk together after tea.

JUNE

Saturday 1^st June 1850

Beautiful day.  After getting some very nice letters from Will in which she says she is quite fascinated with count D’Orsay whom she met, with several other distinguished people at a dejeuner at Chateau Beauvey, the Gudin’s place & having been most kindly driven about by Lady James Hay everywhere. We viz MA pat, JA and me drove down to the churchyard.  It was so peaceful & so lovely & the river wishpers so softly as it runs by that it was quite delightful to be in that quiet spot, where our beloved Father rests.  It did me so much good for I was very sad last night. 

Sunday 2^nd June

Very hot. We did not go to church till two as Mr H had to preach in another parish in the morning.  Pat & I had a turn in the evening before reading, with Jane Anne. We expected thunder and are in want of rain.

Monday, June 2rd

Very hot.  Breakfasted at 8 and P and MA started for  Abdn after. We could not go out in the morning it was so hot, so JA & I had a grand day of arranging in the store-room, cellar etc etc.  I then wrote letters. 

Tuesday 4^th

Equally hot.  After answering our letters we went for a drive.  On the way home from the Gate of Woodend we met the carriage containing the bride & bridegoroom of today, Mr & Mrs Holland, Helen Ogilvie that was.  I would have quickly thrown an old shoe after them, but alas my boots were new French ones!! And a moment’s reflection showed me they would not therefore have brought any luck.  Miss M Burnett made a long call.

Wednesday 5^th June

Thundering in the distance all day. We intended going to call on Julia Carlyon but were rather afraid to venture.    The carpet for landing & the venetian blinds came.  Calder & Craig papered the attic closet.  We went down by the river with Mama after tea, to the cottage. 

Thursday 6^th

Fine. We after dinner drove up to Kincardine to see what is doing by Aleck’s orders at Desswood. It is rather ruinous, but we enjoyed the drive. Douglas Urquhart Meldrum was married today to Gurden Duff of Hatton.  It was a very merry grand affair indeed. A grand dejeune and Ball at night.

Friday 7^th

Cooler, fine.  We went to the garden & worked busily, JA and I.  After dinner we went for a drive by Dalhaikie to the west of Glassel. After tea we went and paid visits to all our friends up the west & were naughty children & stayed out until 30 minutes to 10 o’clock.

Saturday 8^th

Fine. We ahd letters from Antwerp & Malvern. Al & W will be in London now. She had spent a day or two at Brussels and Waterloo.  Then to Aix La Chapelle, Cologne & Bonn from which place they had a delightful pic-nic up  to the Drachenfells. They are to be in London some days where Maggie is to to join them and then come home next week.  Jane Annie & I went to call at Maryfield for Mrs J. Forbes, but she had not come back from the wedding party. We then went to Feugh & saw Julia Carlyon & Mrs C & her wo eldest sons, such nice little things.  Douglas broke 7 plates at once, and appeared wonderfully composed afterwards!

Sunday 9^th June 1850

Sho0wery.  Mama went with me to church for the first time here. She has not been there since the last Sunday that our dear father was well viz when the 4 new elders were ordained on the last day of Sep0te,ber.  I read aloud at night.  We had a letter from Willie.

Monday 10^th

Showers.  Mama went to call at Banchory Lodge but Mrs Forbes was not able to see her.  We then went to Raimoir and they were so glad to see Mama. We took a walk all together in the evening up the banks of the Cannie.  Had a note from Maggie now in London. 

Tuesday 11^th

Very fine day.  We went for our letters as the hours are now changed, & then drove up to Blackhall.  It was so lovely.  In the afternoon JA and I went to the Glen, calling at Annie Middleton’s and Bogarn & came back to tea, after which we went to the garden with Mama. 

Wednesday

Stormy, wind & cloudy.  Wrote to Mrs James Burnett.  Jane Annie & I went to call at the Manse & Mrs. Hutchieson gave me an enormous bouquet of Lily of the Valley. We enquired for the Gordons at Deebank.  We went down the river side with ama at night. 

Thursday 13^th

Showery.  Had letters from our travellers saying they will be home tomorrow night.  I am perfectly enchanted and can settle to do nothing. We are to send the carriage to Stonehaven to meet the mail train. They were getting tired of London & are to be in Edinburgh tonight.

Friday 14Th

Fine with a gentle shower.  Mrs Young & the Carlyons came early to call as they were making a round of calls.  I heard of the illness of  the Duncan’s youngest child & went to see the poor little thing.  I fear it is dying.  We called on widow Walker also. After dinner went to see that the seats by the river were put up and JA & I with John  dower worked hard till 5 o’clock , cutting impudent branches. We gave  Mama a cup of tea early but we waited most impatiently till they came & it was nearly nine o’clock!   It is quite impossible to convey an idea of the quantity of words & thoughts we exchanged during the remainder of the evening!  We never ceased speaking till one o’clock in the morning and even then Willie & I kept up our chattering from our beds.  They are both looking very well indeed and so happy to be at home. All of us have felt much that there was one whose kind welcome always used to greet us, absent from our happy little circle, but he will never again give us the kindly look & the quiet whispered word & a squeeze of the hand that we all know so well. Aleck went straight to Aberdeen. Willie has brought me such a pretty French bracelet  from herself and several nice little things I wanted.  Maggie has got or ordered a good many of her ‘things’ in London and from all circumstances I think her wedding will be about the 8^th of August.

Saturday 15^th

Fine but cold

I was too happy to be able to sleep! We commenced our loquacity when we got up and had a general unpacking of their valuables. After our dinner we all went down together to the churchyard and remained half an hour.  Willie & I went up the river side having been put down at the Terrace Walk. Aleck came out to tea & brought two boxes of beautiful French paper with my cipher stamped on it in black & blue & silver.  They brought their Daguerotypes done beautifully & very like.  I have appropriated one of Willie to myself.  Aleck gave us a great deal of news & took a stroll in the garden at night.

Sunday 16^th June 1850

Cold.  We all went to church and in the afternoon W, JA & I went up to the school where I took the class I used sometimes to have last year. We took a stroll in the garden at night. 

Monday 17^th June

Cool. We went out for a drive before tea. When at dinner Mrs Farquharson Monaltrie & Miss Burnett her niece  called & then the Glassel party called. We meant to have gone to see them first.  Maggie wrote letters all day long. Alick left early in the morning.

Tuesday 18^th

Fine.  We all talked a great deal & settled several things!  Mrs Gordon called.  More letter writing.  Maggie & Willie went down to meet Arthur at the coach and Mama & I rather nervously waited his arrival. At last he came and most favourably impressed us. We had such a cheery evening & went to the garden.  I tormented the young people famously!  Well it seems very odd to have him here & it all settled. 

Wednesday 19^th June

Fine, warm.  We had the carriage opened and drove round to Blackhall after breakfast to inspect it, as Arthur has some werious thoughts of taking it for them to live there till he purchases a place.  How nice it would be.  If they take it, it will require repairing and cleaning!

Thursday 20^th

Fine. Mr & Mrs Thomson came up & dined early with us. We had a nice chatty day and arranged things nicely for them all. The young people are quite pleased with my attention in getting the seats for them!  We walked over to Cairnton to see Miss Young.   Mr & Mrs Francis Gordon called while we were at dinner.

Friday 21^st

Cloudy.  Maggie, Arthur & I went to call at Glassel before dinner & after we went to Feugh Cottage. We found all parties at home I went to the old village some messages.  Willie & I had a nice evening walk & sat out watching the clouds. 

Saturday 22^nd

Fine. After dinner we went round by the Bridge of Potarch by Whitestone & Strachan & had a delightful drive. We two got out at a hill to ease the horses and made a short cut over the heath where we saw quantities of plovers. We found Aleck had arrived when we came home.  After tea Mamma’s dear little pony carriage came with a pet of a pony which we have christened ‘Wisker’.  The carriage was bought at Worcester.  We took a walk with Alick and got his news . We sat out till 11 o’cliock, the gents smoking to keep off the gnats.  We had a table out, & some refreshment! 

Sunday 23^rd June 1850

Very hot.  There is great want of rain. We went to Church. Arthur & Maggie to Mr Reid’s, Willie & I went to school and each took our classes.  I like teaching very much. We read all the evening as the others went out.  Aleck read a sermon at night. 

Monday 24^th

The hottest day I almost ever felt.  We shut all the Venetians to keep cool  Mamma & Mag went to see Mrs Forbes at Banchory Lodge.  Mr & Mrs Brown called from Kincardine.  I wrote all day in the library. Willie & I took the first drive in the pony carriage, but our pet of a pony is young & wants breaking in.  we took Mama for a walk, while the pair marched off their own way. We hear such a sad account of our much valued friend Dr Williamson who is not expected to survive many hours.  Oh how keenly I feel for them all.

The pages of Anne’s Journal covering June 25^th – 30^th 1850 are missing.  It would seem that during this period, some of Arthur Fraser’s family came to stay.  Ed

JULY 1850

Monday July 1^st

Fine.  We had a busy kind of day.  The Frasers were out all the morning.  James & Margaret Forbes walked up from Maryfield & stayed luncheon, after which they drove to Raemoir & took the Forbes down with them.  Agnes & I had a walk half way to Cairnton. 

Tuesday 2^nd

Fine.  We dined early and then the Frasers took their leave ofus. We all much enjoyed our quiet evening.  Miss Margaret Burnett made a long call.

Wednesday 3^rd July

Thundershowers & rain, very much wanted.   We went into town in the forenoon, to see & get Maggie’s things in a progressive state.  Aleck went ov er to Seaton.  Poor Sir Robert Peel was thrown from his horse in the green Park on Saturday & did not seem dangerously h urt, but was insensible and news has just come that he expired at 11 on Monday night.  He made a splendid speech in the House just before, and oh how soon was he laid low.    The Country has lost one of very greatest & cleverest men but all is ordained by a wise Providence.  It has caused such a sensation over the land.  We took an evening walk & called at Granton Lodge.

Thursday 4^th

Showery

Had shopping for Maggie.  The Frasers called. Also Jessy Moir, Mary Lindsay, the Bannermans.  Mary Anne came in from Hillside & took Maggie out at 5 o’clock.  We three, Mamma W & I came home to a late tea.  I had a letter from Jane Ramsay.

Friday 5^th

Showery.  We had a nice quiet busy day & settled our accounts, etc.  First Mrs Thomas Innes called & then Mr & Mrs Innes, Raemoir.  They go to Westerton on Monday.  Willie & I went & called at Glencommon on the Sarjeant’s wife.  We sat up late writing letters & reading.

Saturday 6^th July

Cool. W & I went to call at Mavis Bank, Arbeadie and at Kinesdie on Mrs Pirnie our opposite neighbours in Aberdeen. We found them all at home.  Aleck came out to dinner & gave Mama a drive in the little carriage. 

Sunday 7^th July 1850

Fine with showers.  We all went to church.  Mrs Innes gave me a brooch as a little rememberance for Maggie.  I went to the school & had my class enlarged to 9 or 10 girls tonight.  I like teaching very much & only hope I shall be enabled to do them some good  we took a turn with aleck at night before reading one of Dr Simeon’s beautiful sermons.

Monday 8^th

Showery & cold.   Aleck & I left in his dogcart at 8 o’clock and got to Aberdeen in two hours.  It rained heavily for 7 miles but we were quite happy & cozy & have determined to start on our wedding tours in a dog cart with the maid & bandboxes behind!!  I got a number of things arranged.  Maggie did not go out till after dinner & made me too late for an appointment with Mary Ross, but we don’t consider her accountable un der present circumstances.  She came in from Hillside this morning.  I gave Mary a lot of interesting news.  

Tuesday 9^th July

Finer. Still busy, but we got all preparations fairly on foot. Duncan & Kate’s present to Mag came which is a most elegant work table of papier mache & blue velvet.  Part of her trousseau from London came also, along with a most convenient portmanteau from Arthur.  I went to enquire for old Maggie Thom & Jeanie took me to see a poor lovely little infant who had died two days before.  I never say anything more innocent or pure.  It surely was a little angel in heaven & that little lifly form will rise again to praise its divine maker hereafter.  I shall never forget this sweet baby’s face.  We went viz Pat, MA, Aleck May me & JA to Banchory House to dinner.  May & I remained & we had a good deal of music at night. They are very kind.

Wednesday 10^th

Fine. We spent part of the morning in the Museum & went out to the garden. After lunch we all sallied forth for a long walk through the woods & had several views of Aberdeen.  I was glad of half an hour’s rest before dinner in my room, reading Wordsworth, a handsome copy of which Maggie has made me a p0resent.  In the evening Mr Thomson & I were busy with the microscope in the museum.  It was very interesting. Capt & Mrs Gibson, Arthur’s sister and brother-in-law-are here too. 

Thursday 11^th July

Fine & warm.  Looking at Fosils for two hours, then a pretty walk before lunch. Arthur & Maggie move together in a separate world of which such as I know nothing!!  They strewed a quantity of lovely roses at our bedroom door for Maggie to walk on.   I sprang over the ‘path of roses’ with the greatest agility & left her to the full enjoyment of the surprise.    We left after lunch & I was not sorry to be at home. Mrs Dr Pirnie & two girls came up to tea & strawberries & we gave them a bouquet to ornament their Banchory lodgings.  William has been driving Mama & Moses the pony behaves beautifully.   Miss Mary Yung gave Maggie a copy of the excellent woman, so she ought to know her duties now for she has two. 

Friday 12^th

Fine & so hot.   Margt & I went to Crathes but Miss Burnett had already had some visitors & was tired.  We then called at the Manse. We all 4 had a walk in the evening together.   Mr & Mrs Fergusson Strachan & Mrs Farquharsdon Arbeadie called while we two were away. 

Saturday 13^th July

Hot & dry.  Willie & I drove over to Glassel in the pony carriage & made a long call.  Moses showed off when we left!  On coming home Willie had the most ridiculous letter that ever any of us saw or imagined & gave us food for amusement & amazement all day.  Aleck came out in the evening & joined in our astonishment.  We had a walk with him to Cairnton after tea & two Miss Youngs came part of the way back with us.  We wrote out a recommendation of Henry McDonald to be sent to Lord Cochrane. 

Sunday 14^th July 1850

Equally hot.  We all went to church & had such a good sermon.  I went to the school, but suffered from the heat as it was full & I had 9 in my class!  We took a turn by the river with Aleck before coming in to read at night.

Monday 15^th July

St Swithin’s day & not one drop of rain but very hot.  Aleck left early.  The Banchory party, Capt & Mrs Gibson & Jessy, Arthur & An gelica came up to lunch. We had a short walk all about.

Tuesday 16^th

Hot & bright.  They went round to Blackhall in the morning.  Mr Hutchieson & Miss Young called.  Craig has been ill in bed for 10 days poor man, it is very inconvenient for us.  I drove Mr H down after lunch & brought Margt Forbes up to spend the day. We all went to the glen together. Aleck came out to dinner with a salmon!  We had a nice evening & sent James & Margt Forbes home at night.

Wednesday 17^th

Hottest day of all.  Aleck left early.  The Gibsons also left us today, but it was much too hot to go out so we panted all day in the house & just had a turn by the river at night. 

Thursday 18^th

Cloudy but only a few drops of rain.  We went down to see the Flower Show at Banchory & our greenhouse carried all the first prizes .    We met the Thos Innes etc, etc.  James & Miss Forbes met us to take Arthur to look at Invery & after driving a little on the Strachan road they went there. Willie & I amused ourselves in the avenue till they returned. They like it very well. Mgt told us all about the illness of poor Georgy S kene before she died.

Friday 19^th July

Cloudy.  Maggie, Arthur & I started to make some calls at Kincardine Lodge & the Manse & Miss Morrices. We then called at Donald McDonalds and were regaled with bread & butter, marmalade, mild & whisky and a hearty welcome.

Saturday 20^th

There was a small rain all night which has refreshed everything.   Arthur went away per mail to Aberdeen. Mamma & May went to Learney & took an early dinner with Miss Brebner. Aleck came to tea. We went to the village with the pony chase & enjoyed our drive.  I had a turn with May afterwards. We were saying if Willie was to be married soon how very desolate I would be left all alone without her! 

Sunday 21^st July 1850

Fine.  We went to church. There was a collection for India Missions.  I went as usual to school. We put a stop to the distribution of the “ New Light”              tracts in the school, to show that it is not sanctioned there.  I do hope & trust I do some good by teaching a class there, even tho I may not be aware of it.  Aleck & I sat in the garden after tea. 

Monday 22^nd July

Fine. Arthur’s birthday. Willie & I drove Moses to Cairnton to call on the Abercrombies. We then went to Banchory, called on Miss Grace Burnett, & enquired for Col Gordon who has been  ill of irresipelis  (now known as Erysipelas or Cellulitis. Ed ) . We asked Mrs Young to come to tea this week but she is engaged with friends at home.

Tuesday 23^rd

Fine   Mama & may called at Pitmurchie yesterday. Today Willie & ay drove together to Woodend. Arthur came p by the evening coach to tea.  Enquired for Col Gordon who is rather better.

Wednesday 24^th

Gloomy.  Miss Young & the Abercrombies called in such a shower.  Miss Catherine A is so very pretty I think. We went to shop in the village & Arthur & Maggie took a drive together with Moses.

Thursday 25^th

Very fine.  Willie & I were busy all the morning cooking rose leaves with all kinds of aromatics, quite delicious. Dr. Thom called.  Mss Ann Burnett walked up & after lunch I drove her home. While in the village Mr. Robeertson Foveran and Mr J Milton came up. They had walked like soldiers to Aboyne without stopping.  They brought me some strawberries expecting me to feed before the Banchorians.  I took Mamma for a little drive.  The others went to call at Balfour.  Miss Grace Burnett called. W & I had a pleasant evening walk & sat out till 10 o’clock watching the moon rise & listening to the Banchory band in the distance.

Friday 26^th July

Alex birthday.  Fine.  After writing all morning, Mrs Thomson & Cat Gibson came to lunch.  We took them for a walk & they went home after 4 o’clock.  Mrs young called with some friends about 5 and after tea Mama & I went to Banchory & to the Churchyard for some time.  I sat up late writing.

Saturday 27^th

Cloudy.  Had a good many things to do.  May & W drove down to Mavisbank .  Both Patk & Aleck came to tea & strawberries which are splendid this season.  Pat brought 12 baby partridges under the care of a step mother as their own Mama was beheaded/  We made a nice shelter for the young family. 

Sunday 28^th July 2013

Fine.  We all went to church & had a very beautiful sermon on the parables of the ‘pearl of great price’.  We went to the school & were sorry to see the Smith family had not come back after our last week’s proceedings. Aleck & I had a turn in the evening. 

Monday 29^th

Lovely warm day.  Sat under the great birch on the new seat with Aleck all the morning.  Pat went into town.  We tried over some new plans and arrangements for the 6^th.  We all went together to Desswood and had strawberries & ginger bread to regale ourselves sin the carriage. Aleck & I had a nice walk at night after seeing the partridges & Moses!

Tuesday 30^th

Very hot indeed.  Aleck left us. Magie & I called at Crathes, Frfee Manse, Arbeadie, Banchory Lodge, Dee Bank, Feugh Cottage.  Miss Grace Burnett & Mrs Pirie & found all at home but 2.  It was Mag’s P.P.C. and we were most thoroughly worn out & glad to dine when we got home.  I heard from F Farquharson that her marriage is fixed for 27^th August so we must go to it.  We are all so fatigued with the heat. We went out to cool ourselves with strawberries after nine at night & gathered a quantity of exquisite flowers.

Wednesday 31^st July

Fine. Arthur came up per mail also Jessy Johnstone to visit us one day. She was so glad to see all May’s pretty things.  Willie & I sat out very late. Mamma & W had a short drive.

AUGUST 1850

Thursday 1^st August 1850

Hot. Arthur & I went to town after breakfast.  I had a great many things to do in Aberdeen and ran about all day from place to place.  I had half an hour’s chat with Mary Ross & a turn with Katie Bannerman.  Mary Ross amused me extremely.

Friday, 2^nd

Very hot.  I trotted about a little more & got everything finally set to rights.  I brought out the cake in the carriage.  Mary Anne & I arrived about 7 o’clock and found all our Malvern party arrived.  The children, nurses & Gordons arrived about three in the morning, their carriage having broken down on the top of the Grampians.  Fortunately Pat who met them at Stonehaven went with them to keep them company otherways they would have been frightened alone on the hills at night until another carriage came from Banchory.  None of them caught cold as the night was so lovely, but poor Bella fainted on their arrival.  Supper was on the dining eroom table as they had been expected all the evening.  Duncan stayed with K ate who was not very well at Perth and come on here this afternoon.  We are a large party.

Saturday 3^rd

Fine.  Busy all the morning.  After an early dinner, Duncan & I walked to Banchory and then to the churchyard where we staid a long time. Duncan likes the monument. We walked slowly back & Aleck overtook us in the dog cart at Banchory, where we also met Foveran and had a chat.  Anna Maria, Aleck, Pat & I had a walk round by Glencommon.  Maggie signed her contract so her fate is sealed!  We had a little music.

Sunday 7^th August 1850

Fine, hot.  We young people went early to church & heard Maggie proclaimed.  Jamie came by the morning mail & I found him in the garden among the gooseberries.  After dinner, A M & I went to the school.  She was quite pleased with the intelligence of the pupils.  We sat out after tea.  Pat read a sermon.

Monday 7^th

Fine.  In a very slight bustle conside4ring the occasion, everything is so well arranged.  Pat & Jamie went to Aboyne.  The three children from Hillside arrived in the Carr to an early dinner.  Making favors, writing cards, etc etc.  Maggie will not make breakfast to us again for a long long time and she has done so for ages!  We don’t allow ourselves to think about her leaving as we should all become so prosey & moody & we are very busy.  The Miss Frasers & their old aunt arrived about 6 o’clock and the William Leslies & Kate came at 7 and we had all a heavy tea 20 of us.  Music at night.  We all denied ourselves the gratification of a chat at night as it would have fatigued & upset us all for tomorrow.

Tuesday 6^th

Thunder showers.   I began my duties as Miss Davidson by making breakfast for our large party as Maggie staid with Mama in her room. We all stood about & made the final little arrangements for the wedding at 2 o’clock.  My Uncle Aunt & two cousins came at 1 and then the Banchory party arrived.  I went down to receive them but disappeared to do my bridal duties after arrival of the bridegroom.   Dear Maggie was so composed & took every thing quite cooly.  W & I only assisted the dressing as she couldn’t bear a fuss.  At last all weas ready & I thought  I should have broken through my resolutions of good beahaviour when I went to fetch Pat to take her down.  We bridesmaids entered first, with all the dearl little children in our terrain & posted ourselves near the clergyman & then came Maggie. Arthur stepped up & the ceremony began.  I felt so sick.  The ceremony was most impressive and all one could wish.  When the glove came to be pulled off I shook so that I began to take off the wrong one but all is well that ends well & I felt so relieved  when Mrs Arthur Fraser was congratulated.  We found the ring on the wrong hand, but I saw that rectified.  Mama & I went for a minute to the library and came back all right.  She went up soon to change her dress & Mama and me only with her.  The best man first handed her to the dining room to stick a knife in the cake and then handed her to the carriage.  The children strewed the Portico with roses!  The nearest gentlemen drained a bottle of Champagne to their happiness and they were off in the midst of deafening cheers & a volley of old shoes.  We then all marched in to lunch and after peacefully but merrily eating it the toasts began & a buzz that was no doubt quite the thing.  All the speechifying was tho not eloquent very good & amusing.  Besides the toast of the day & others  Mr Innes did me the honor to drink my health on my promotion!  The drawing for the ring, thimble & sixpence went off successfully:  JA the ring, Bella thimble, AM the sixpence, then a cutting of cake and general confusion!  The Piries, Banchorys, Thomsons & Capt A Farquhar  returned after having a cup of coffee and Mr John Fraser, Mr. Farquhar  & Mr Macneil stayed all night.  We had games & music in the evening, Willie & I after chatting to the Gordons went & discussed it all with Pat in Maggie’s room. The crisis is over. 

Wednesday 7^th

Fine. The Leslies went to see the Gordons before they left and we were all busy cutting & tying up cake.  After lunch Mr Michell & Mary Farquharson called to congratulate us all.  We then dressed & started in three carriages for Banchory where all the wedding party met. We had an enlarged edition of all the toasts of yesterday. I sat by a very pleasant person who lunched at Inchmarlo some years ago, a Mr. Towers.  After a little music from Jim & me (as Angelica left hers at Inchmarlo) we then left in the open carriage & Jim sang to us.  We had a tender parting with all our friends at the door. D & K, the Gordons stayed. 

Thursday 8^th

Gloomy.  We did not get home till after 12, so were very lazy this morning but sent off cards & other things.  We sent off the children (who staied with Mama) aftr lunch to Hillside. They all came back from Banchory to dinner & we were luxuriating in our fatigue. 

Friday 9^th

Showery.   Bella, Jamie & I had such a musical morning.  i wrote again to our tyravellers from whom we have had one letter. AM Willy & I had a long chat after luncheon in our shop. 

Saturday 10^th  

Fine.  After lunch our people called at Arbeadie & Glassel and found the latter at home.  Pt came out & drove Lord Elcho & Lord Cochrane with whom he dined yesterday at Seaton.  They went on to Ballater.  AM & I had a walk and sat on the rocks till we were much too late for dinner. Aleck came out per coach. He went to Perth yesterday and came back this morning.

Sunday 11^th August 1850

Fine.  We all went to church & had a splendid sermon.  Bella & I went to the school & she took a class as a teacher was absent.  Duncan read a sermon aloud at night.  We all went up to the Garden after tea.

Monday 12^th

Splendid day. Long life to the Grouse & little Willy Douglas Leslie!  After lunch we all went round to Blackhall & AM sketched it.  I waited & drove her home. The Innes called. There is a mysterious fascination about the garden at present, as there never was seen such a fine cop of all kinds of fruit.  Jamie has been reading aloud to us. 

Tuesday 13^th

Very hot.  A party of us went early to Raimoir before luncheon.  We sat under the trees & as AM and I were going to the garden we met the Thos Innes comeing to call. Am, Duncan and I went to the Hill walks & saw the sunset most gloriously.  J & w drove to Cairnton. 

Wednesday 14^th

Very hot.  Got a supply of grouse from W Robertson Foveran.  W. Michell called early & paid a visit to the gooseberries.  The Abercrombies & Miss Young lunched here.  Miss M Burnett walked up & rested here.  We showed her M’s presents. 

Thursday 15^th

Hottest day of all.  Mamma & I drove early to Banchory. Anna Maria sketched the house from near the great birch.  We then went to the Glen & after being nearly broiled landed on the smooth grass in the shade & having discussed an abundant lunch & cooled our beverages by putting the bottles in the water, Jamie read aloud to us.  We were very tired indeed & lay down on our return. We found Mrs Farquharson & Miss A Burnett called and intimation of the birth of another son at Glassel. After dinner we played as usal on the grass with the children.

Friday 16^th

Gloomy & damp. Wrote all the morning to Cluna & elsewhere.  Sent to enquire to Ms. Michell who has got another son.  AM Jim & I went a mile down the road on the way to Banchory, but then rain came on. M Nothing particular happened.

Saturday 17^th

Fine.  After lunch w e ladies went for a walk to Bogarn & Moses helped the tired ones. Douglas Wymberlie from Drum called & lunched with us.  The old Marquis & Lady Charlotte Gordon called when we were out, but he met us after.  Our three brothers, Aleck having come to breakfast with Beattie, the land surveyor, went  to Desswood to inspect the grounds with a view to building some day.   Bello and I went out after tea to look how the gooseberries grow!!

Sunday 18^th August, 1850

Fine, windy.  A good many went to church, but some had colds & toothache.  Willy & I had a turn before dinner in the garden. After dinner Duncan came with me to the school & took a class which he taught very nicely.  I have made arrangements with my 10 nice girls that when I come back from Edin they shall come down to me at 4 o’clock on Sundays as it is too long a walk for me in Autumn.  Duncan read Blunts’ sermons at night.

Monday 19^th

Stormy & wet. Aleck & Duncan went early to Blelack to pay John Forbes a visit.  John Milne the Showemaker’s son came & tried to take the children’s likenesses.  Pat came from Hillside to breakfast bringing Robert walker. He gave a promising account of the wheat crop on the lawn!  £12.10 per acre .  The post brought  such sad letters for poor Jamie viz that Mr Clarke was much worse & going fast & he must hasten to London in hopes of seeing him alive.  We had letters also from Margaret & Arthur.

Tuesday 20^th

Showery & thunder.  It looked so fine after lunch we two, Duncan & Anna Maria started for Aboyne Castle, but the rain came on.  We found the Marquis &  Lady Charlotte just getting ready to dine at Crathes, so were not admitted. While the orses rested we had lots of news from Mrs Cook of the Inn at Ab  oyne.  We were all tired at night.  I gathered some exquisite flowers today.

Wednesday 21^st

Damp.  I forgot to say we called at Feugh on Monday & saw Capt Baird Young & little Mary who dined with Tom Leslie the day before they left Hong Kong!  The Carlyons are still there.  John Milne came again to paint the babes.   Kate Duncan & I went to Banchory & then on the churchyard for half an hour. We afterwards took a turn in the garden. 

Thursday, 22^nd

Cloudy & showers.  Had most delightful & satisfactory letters from Maggie who is so very happy!    Went to see some poor people with Bella.  Mr & Mrs Reid called and were detained by torrents of rain. We lent her a cloak and are very glad they called. 

Friday 23^rd

Windy.  We are all so enjoying a most interesting book by James “The Forgery”.  We went out after breakfast for ‘a constitutional’.  Miss Young and the Miss Abercrombies called & took a walk.  They afterwards took a drive.  I had a headache so remained. 

Saturday 24^th

Fine. Am & I went after  breakfast to the Hill walks where we sat chatting along time & then to the gooseberries.  Mrs Hutchison called.  Aftyer lunch I packed up my things for Edinburgh and the others went for a drive. Mr & mrs George Forbes made a flying call ont heir way to Heathcot.  Duncan went to Aberdden in the morning but came out again with AM to dinner.

Sunday 25^th August 2013

Fine.  Half went to Chapel & half to church.  Mr H gave us a splendid sermon. Bella & I talked after church & then went to the garden where the rest soon joined us. After tea, AM & I went to the river & sat on the rocks till it was dark.  I sang aloud the evening Hymn. Duncan left us but we got home in time for a sermon at 9 o’clock.  It was so exquisite, and if we had waited longer we should have ssen the moon rise.  I shan’t forget this night.

Monday 26^th

Windy.  I woke early and then got up and put the finish to my packing and after a hurried breakfast & goodbye started in the carriage for Stonehaven to join the train.  I take Mary our little maid with me but I miss Willie so much.  I got a comfortable warm & a few minutes chat with the Rosses there and then started for Edinburgh.  I met a Miss Duncan, Parkhill, who made herself known to me & we talked old Deeside matters over.  On changing carriages I was obliged with some others to get into a 2^nd class carriage for some way, but changed again as soon as possible and after that we had a carriage to ourselves nearly all the way.  It required all our activity at Perth.  We had a smooth transit over the Burntisland Ferry and arrived safe in Edinburgh.  I consider myself a first rate traveller as I keep so cool & collected & lost nothing in spite of all the changes.  We ran up to our quarters in Great King Street followed by the luggage and I have had a solitary tea in my brother-in-law’s house alone. Wrote a letter home and off to bed. 

Tuesday 27^th

Wet. After a night’s rest and breakfast I went to the Faruqharsons and found there M & Mrs McRossie and Mrs Thomson & Miss Lec called also two Miss Ramsays, etc & UI saw all the treasure which for quantity cannot be exceeded!  Too many I think.  Fanny likes our presents she says.  Two Miss Faithfulls arrived and all the gentlemen came to dinner.  I was very tired & glad to get home.  We had music at night and the signing of the Contract!

Wednesday 28^th

Fine.  After breakfast I arranged two bouquets out of the flowers I have nursed from Inchmarlo & then dressed & went to the Farquharsons by half past 10 o’clock.  I ran up to see the bride dressing and then returned & tried to compose Mrs Farquharson who was in a nervous fuss, poor body.  I went with Mrs McDonald & Grace and the bride came after us in the carriage with her brother & M   rs F.   The resent of the guests were assembled in the church and old Father Faithfull performed the ceremony.  He was much affected.   It certainly is very solemn to be married in church.  I wish it were a Presbyterian custom.  After witnessing the signing in the vestry, we drove home in the same way & found the young couple in the drawing room. We had to wait an hour and a half before they started & we lunched, which was as such a pause usually is.      Then after each of the 10 bridesmaids had had their part in the dressing Mrs Faithfull we went down & saw them off  to St martins. Went to the dejeuner with Mr Alex Lee our old friend and pretended to drink all the toasts.  The Bishop made a very niche speech in proposing the young couple.  The party left before three and Miss Hamilton brought me home to change my dress.  There were about 40 at the wedding.  I knew very few even by sight except the Miss Sinclairs the Anthonys.  I cut Mr Cathcart, not recognising him til after.  I left our bridescake at Mr Burnett’s Moray Place and then called on Mrs Mann who made me take a cup of tea.  I got back to Gloster Place at 6 o’clock, took a walk with them at Doon Terrace gardens and had a heavy tea & a quiet chat at night.  Came home about 9 & wrote letters. 

Thursday 29^th

Fine.  I wrote letters all the morning and Mrs Mann called for me for two hours.  I then went to Adie the optitian and chose a nice new pair of specs.  I went to Gloster place at two and Mr Macdonald & Grace went out with me.  I went to Woods & Larie played me some very lovely things.  I chose three pieces. We then called on the Dowager Mrs Macdonald St Martins who invited me there!  When I got home I found the Frasers arrived and dinner over so after chatting with them they insisted on my going to dine at Gloster Place.  I came back at 9 o’clock  after spending a very pleasant evening.  Frank Faithfull came in & stayed tea & told us all about the Queen’s arrival at Holyrood & the crowds who received here.  We heard the Royal salute from the Castle guns about half past 5. The Frasers are so very kind. 

Friday 30^th

Very fine. We went out about 12 o’clock and found our way to St David’s Street where we stationed ourselves out of the crowd and saw Princes Street crowded to the windows while the 13^th Dragoons kept a passage clear for the Royal carriage.  Then came  the carriage containing  the Prince who went to lay the foundation stone of National gallery on the Mound. We made our clay to the Calton Hill and waited to see him return which we managed beautifully, as he just passed under us & we commanded a view of the length of Princes Street, a mass of people .  It was quite thrilling to hear the multitude cheer!   We then saw the dragoon form for march just below and altogether enjoyed a very spirited view of all the proceedings.  We came home & after resting Angelica came with me to call and enquire for Mrs Grier who had a son two days ago.  After hunting about we found the house and then just as we turned away we met William Forbes who told us that the Queen would pass in a few minutes on her way to Donaldson’s hospital.  We saw her perfectly and as  the people did not seem to know of her coming there was no crowd. We were very tired with our exertions all day.  I had a note from M Annie fixing my visit at Glencorse for Monday.

Saturday 31^st

Fine.  The Royal Salute announced that the queen left Holyrood for Balmoral at 8 this morning.  At 11 o’clock after writing home, the Frasers most kindly took me for a drive round the Queen’s drive surrounding Arthur Seat.  It has a series of splendid views down & across the Forth and over the beautiful country, while we drove close under the splendid crags.  We then, after lunching at a baker’s shop, walked by George the 4^th’s bridge to the meadows, through those pretty walks and beyond Newington to the grange Cemetery where the great Dr Chalmers is interred.  The view from it is quite lovely.  We spent some time there & then walked home by the Lothian Road executing some commissions on the way.  I was most thoroughly tired and so glad to get tea and to have a comfortable bed awaiting me. 

SEPTEMBER 1850

Sunday 1^st September 1850

Very warm. We all went in the morning to Dr Candlishes but he was absent, and in the afternoon to the College of Dr Gordon but he, along with most of the Edin clergy, was away. We read to ourselves aloud all the evening. I called at Gloster Place & found Mrs F gone to Aberdour and only Mrs Macdonald & Grace at home .

Monday 2^nd

Fine.  I had a nice letter from home. We went out early and I brought a gift for M Lindsay & some shoes & called on Mrs Brown. After lunch I started in a cab for Glencorse House, 7 miles from Edin.  A pretty drive brought me here and I was most kindly welcomed by Mary & Capt Cumine.  Little Maimie is an elegant little puss & approved highly of some sugar plums I brought her.  We had a nice chatty evening. 

Tuesday 3^rd 

Wet.  We chatted away & looked at Mary’s numerous pretty things all the morning.  It cleared about 4 so we all including the two Miss Tawses went to the garden & then for a walk through the pretty grounds of ‘the Buch’ a fine place in the neighbourhood.  The ground was very wet.  Another talkative, pleasant evening. 

Wednesday 4^th

Very fine but cold.  Mary took me for a drive in her pretty little carriage to see the old ruins of Woodhouselees, & pretty place, then to Roslin and Pennycuick.  When we returned we found Miss O’Reilly arrived to lunch.  After this we all went for a pretty walk b y Auchendenny & the great Paperworks & saw the Irish girl nearly home.  I went to see the old church, a curious building in the shape of a small cross.  Evidently originally a Roman catholic Erection.  Some old tombstones & the graves of some of the old French prisoners.  It always suggests many strange thoughts to see what has been raised over the graves of those passed away hundreds of years ago.  Our own may be looked on hereafter, but there shall come a day in the which both quick and dead shall hear the rump of God and shall come forth to the judgement. Oh may we all choose that path which will place us through Jesus on the right hand.  It overpowers me to think of the multitude of undeserved mercies that are about my path continually & for which I am so utterly ungrateful & so unworthy of them.  May I be ready to yield all up when I am called, for I have neither the day nor the hour but oh may I be enabled either living or dying to glorify the name of my God  & do some good for the sake of Christ.  I played & sung all the evening & they said they were not tired but wished it.

Thursday 5^th

Fien but cloudy.  We all went out after lunch & walked to the Compensation Pond, from which Edinbrugh is supplied with water.  We walked I believe on forbidden ground and a very rude man came & showed us off.  We got back in time for me to put my things up and I left them at 5 o’clock and went to Edin after having enjoyed my visit much.  Miss Fraser was ill in bed with a severe headache & Angelica not well but we had a conversable evening after I dismissed a hearty tea.

Friday 6^th

Very fine.

I collected all my goods and Angelica came with me most kindly to the Station.  Indeed I fear they have both suffered from the fatigue of taking me about town so much in their kindness.  I found myself in the s same carriage with principal & Mrs Lee.  He came north as he is to preach at Balmoral on Sunday.  After a smooth crossing at Burntisland Ferry we then got into the Coupe and had lovely views all the way to Perth.  Mary was in an empty carriage behind so I kept myself quite easy on her account.  We waited nearly an hour at Perth & walked about a little.  I there discussed l& was much refreshed by my sandwiches & shared them with the old Principal.  Mr Lumsden Clova was in the train  returning home after having buried his son Harry who died of Aoplexy aged 233 and his wife has been dying of consumption for 5 years.  I heard that Capt John Skene is going to be married again to Miss Harriet Wood, a daughter of Genral Wood’s.  I got home about 8 o’clock and they all examined me eating my tea & listened most attentively to all my news. 

Saturday 7^th

Cold east wind.  Willie & Mamma packed a large Box for Inverness & Portsoy.  I called on Mrs Lee at the Aberdeen Hotel & took her to see some places in the town.  Then I called on the Williamsons and we talked long about my dear father &* theirs.  He was quite conscious when he died.   Poor thing, how I can feel for them.  We left town at 3 o’clock, called and  left Mama & me at Banchory House, but Mrs Tomson was out. We saw Mrs Gibson.  K, K & went to call on the Nicholls at Heathcot and see the place as they think of taking it for the net season.  I read aloud a letter we had from Maggie from Cologne, such a happy one. When we came home & stopped to enquire at Deebank, we were told that  the good Col died las night.  It must have been sudden at last tho’ he has been seriously failing all the summer.  Dropsy came on rapidly.  Alas to think of the poor widow & four little girls left without their head.  We read quietly at home all the evening.

Sunday 8^th September 1850

Fine.  We all went to church. Willie & I walked together in the afternoon.  There was a collection of £13.10 gathered for the home mission.  Duncan read one of Blunt’s sermons at night.

Monday 9^th

Fine.  After lunch Willie & I walked to Banchory.  Met Miss Macrae coming here but she turned and went with us to enquire at Deebank for them all.  Then we called on Miss Grace Burnett and after resting at Mavisbank came back by the river.  It was so lovely.  I began to read The Caxtons by Bulwer.

Tuesday 10^th

Fine. We heard the Gordons only left Warthill yesterday as the coaches were full but now they are at Palmer’s Cross.  W & I called at Kincardine Lodge & then took a walk.  I have been trying all my nice new music over.

Wednesday 11^th

Finer

I fogot to say Mrs Young & Miss Grance Burnett called yesterday.  Poor Miss smith our dressmaker came to see us. Duncan attended. Col gordon’s funeral & Pat joined him from Aberdeen while Mary Anne with Duncan & two youngest daughters came on here.  The gents brought back Capt John forbes of Inverernan with them & he stayed to lunch & went on with them to the Dusich Jubilee dinenr at Aboyne. They are to sleep at Blelack & go up with the Forbes to see the Braemar gathering to which 300 Atholl men come tomorrow.  Miss M Young & nieces called also Major Farquharson, Co9rachree.  We took M<A for a little drive.  Kate & I walked.  We had a grand baking in the afternoon!!

Thursday 12^th

Lovely day

Wrote all the morning & practised.  They dined early & we  had a ll a nice walk.  I went in solitary grandeur to dine at Raemoir. There was a large party there Col & Mrs Jonathan Forbes & mrs Crawford.  Betrice Irvine, Capt & Mrs Wetherall, Mr Hay, Capt Farquhar, Mr C Gordon of Ellon & Mary Leith who is suffering from gum boil.  Major Dizny not able to come but went to consult the Doctor.  Mary Farquharson was there.  It was very stupid and nobody spoke.  We had a little good music from Beatrice Irvine.

Friday 13^th September

Fine.  Willie, Duncanie & I started after breakfast for Raemoir and went to Feugh to pick up mary Yond and Mr Ogilvie Inchewan.  We met Mrs Innes at the gate, who got into our carriage & we drove  to meet the carts which were to take us to the top of the hill of Fare.  It was a rough but most merry voyage up.  We were glad to walk occasionaly & after much deliberation we halted on a sheltered spot near the top and had a capital view of the luncheon & gentelemen & nearest rocks, but all else was buried in dry fog, theo the sun shone famously.  I rebelled at being driven down such steep heathery hills & enjoyed the walk much.  The merry Miss Barnes who live at Frank Bells wre a great addition and seemed to enjoy it all.  Young Mr. Wood whose sister is going shortly to marry Capt John Skene, & Arthur Farquar were the merriest among the gentlemen.  We fixed for a picnic next Wednesday to the Glen.  Some of the party to start with us from Inchmarlo.   We found Pat & Dcome home after enjoying their trip to Braemar extremely.  They were within a few feet of the queen when she was in the Castle seeing some children dancing.  The gathering at Castoleton was a magnificent sight they said.  They all with the Black lack party took tea with Mrs Milne at Ballater.  I was very tired.

Saturday 14^th

Lovely day.  I drove Mary Anne & Dujncan with Moses to Banchory Lodge & feugh.  In the afternoon I went to see old James Dun & sat out under the trees.  Aleck came out to dinner. Duncan called at Woodend.

Sunday 15^th September 1850

Fine.  We went to church & heard a long paper against drunkiness read published by the General Assembly besides the sermon. Willie, Aleck & I sat on the rocks by the river till tea time.  D.  read aloud.

Monday 16^th

Fine.  Capt Farqhuar & Mr Wood called early.  Pat went to town.  Tommy Burnett rode up from Crathes to see us.  We ladies all went to Desswood with Al & had great fun scrambling about near the Fall.  It was so slippery. Duncan was thinning the woods & too busy to accompany us.  We went to see where Al thinks of building. We’re all tired at night.  The 6 children dance & shout vehemently after dinner.

Tuesday 17^th

Fine.  Willie & I went off to Crathes to spend the morning.  We were so glad to see dear Mrs B. again. Willie so perfectly remembered the last time she was here the day our own beloved Father was struck by disease  It was brought so vividly to our remembrance that night when he last was able to enjoy the world’s blessing.  We walked about after lunch & went to see Miss Burnetts before we left. Sir & Mrs B went to Drum in the afternoon.  Kate & Duncan went to dine at Learny to meet the Marquis & Lady Charlotte Gordon & Mr Greenhil..

Wednesday 18^th

Fine. The Learny & Raemoir party  joined us at 12 and we all went to a nice little picnic to the Glen viz Mrs Inness, Mr & Mrs Thos Innes & boys, Miss Barnes, Mary Leith, Miss Macrae, Miss A Burnett & Miss Burton, Capt Farquhar, Mr Wood, Mr Greenhill & our noble selves.  It was merry. Miss Brebner staid with Mama!  M Leith went away early & part of us walked back by Glencommon & went to see the Garden. Mr & Mrs Duncan Forbes called yesterday.

Thursday 19^th

Cloudy.  Our gents went down to the Games at 12, taking Duncanie who was wild with delight.  Heard from Mag yesterday who tells us here maid is so delicate she most probably will be sent home & they would hire a Swiss.  I read the Caxtons all the evening. D & A dined at Crathes. Pat came here.

Friday 20^th

Wet. Aleck left before breakfast. We all made up our minds to enjoy a busy wet day and W & I set to work to arrange our accounts. Children dancing & romping & the party at night played Whist!

Saturday 21^st

Dark & showery.  After lunch D & I defied the weather & had a very pretty walk down to Mavisbank & then up the road through our woods to East Mains where I called at some of our cottages.

Sunday 22^nd September 1850

Fine.  We all went to church & had a beautiful sermon on the words “If we confess ours ins He is faithful & just to forgive us our sins & cleanse us from all unrighteousness’”  Mr H explained about God’s mercy and justice most distinctly.  We had a little walk after dinner, as the school was not reopened but 3 girls of my class came & I gave them a short lesson.  D read a sermon at night.

Monday 23^rd

Lovely warm day.   Soon after breakfast Mrs Burnett & family arrived to spend the day. We drove her to Cairnton & I walked with the children there & back with MRS Burnett.  We dined early and Pat, MA, Katie & Mary left afterwards.  We then went to the garden & luxuriated in the  delicious plums!  They all left about 5 o’clock  and we had a heavy tea & a nice long

Transcript of entries for September 24^th – October 1^st missing.  Ed.

evening.

OCTOBER 1850

Tuesday, October 1^st 1850

Finer.  Miss Margaret Burnett called & told us that Patty Moir Denmore is going to be married to Mr Doundas of Carron Hall.  I hope it will end happier than poor Mary Anne’s & Major Erskine’s engagement.  Pat acted as chairman of the Club at Mr Stewart Auchluncart’s request & I hear acquitted himself well.  Miss M Young & Mrs Isobel Morrice called.

Wednesday 2^nd

Fine.  Had letters from Arthur which tells us Maggie had had an attack of fever & diarrhea at Zuric h but was getting better.  They were obliged to stay several days &call in a Dr but I hope she is well by this time. Willie & I called at the Manse of Strachan & Mrs Ferguson showed us some queer old things. The old Mother was delighted with us, for she knew our great grandfather.  We called at Feugh on our way home.  Kate has a bad cold. 

Thursday 3^rd October

Showery.  What a sad day to us it was last year.  I went to town for a nurse & Dr and it was such a sudden blow we were past feeling & could not believe it.  We tried to walk to Cairnton but the rain stopped us.  I received a number of nice long letters.  There was one to Patk from Sir James Clarke asking him particulars about the line of road to the station at Stonehaven by Banchory.    We sent Robert & young gardener to town with it.

Friday 4^th

Fine till 3 o’clock.

We went early & called for Miss G Burnett & the Miss Barnes.  Met May Young who was coming to spend the day here & took her in the carriage.   I wish we had more to amuse;  she made me play to her & we went to the garden.  Kate still in bed.  Mama & I went to enquire  for Mr Gordon who is better.  They met Sir James Clarke & Dr Adams.  It poured and we were obliged to take May back in the carriage.  Reading ‘Voyages in the Life of Mrs Margaret Maitland’  such a very nice interesting book.

Saturday 5^th October

Fine.  Duncan & I called at Crathes.  Mrs Gordon & Capt & Mrs Johnstone called here.  Willie & I went to see some of the people about & had a very pleasant walk together.  Had a letter from Maggie who is much better & is likely to be quite well ere this time.  Also a letter from Isabella Forbes who starts for India very soon.  I had sent as a remembrance a copy of Bogatsky’s Golden Treasury.

 Sunday 6^th October 1850

Gloomy. D W & I went to church.  In the afternoon my school came down & we went on so nicely with our Bible & other lessons.  They are so intelligent.  D read one of Blunt’s sermons at night.

Monday 7^th

Wet.  W had a nice busy day.  I tuned up my harp & practise.  Sir Alex sent his Forester to know what trees we wanted cut down by the river near Cairnton which obstructs our view.  It was very kind of him indeed.

Tuesday 8^th

Wet. Writing letters. Heard from Zurich and Maggie is nearly quite well again.  An interesting new Quarterly Review came tonight which I instantly appropriated!

Wednesday 9^th

Fine morning.  We sent a huge number of flowers to Pat to use in adorning the station prepared for the Queen’s luncheon.  We drove to Banchory to shop. Capt & Mrs Gibson & Jessie arrived to tea. We were glad to see them here at last.!

Thursday 10^th

Showery.  We went after breakfast Banchory where a good many people were met to see the Queen change horses on her way Soutbh by the Slug road.  After several carriages of servants & luggage came Her M carriage containing theQueen, Prince Albert, the Prince of Wales & Priince Alfred drove up & we all saw beautifully.  When nearly ready to start an old footman enquired for the landlady as the Royal family wished to enter the Inn as the Princess Royal was rather sick.  I saw to the foot of the stair & had a perfect view of the Queen & whole party.   I told Mrs Grant not to turn her back but the Queen waved her hand & smiled saying ‘a bedroom if you pleas’ & then ran up stairs. They staid 10 minutes and all the ladies spread their shawls on the ground and stairs leading back to the carriage.  All was not smoothed when she came down so she waited in the staircase til all was right & took Prince Albert’s arm smiling & evidently amused.  The Pricne of Wales in passing me dropped a book & I stooped just too late to pick it up for him.  They drove off amid such cheering.  The lunch went off well at Stonehaven.  Pat, Lord James & Mrs Thomson providing the plate used.  MA sent her arm chair for the wee drawing room & the Queen instantly threw herself into it.  Miss Farquharson late of Ballogie came to us today. Mrs Gibson & I had a little walk.  We had all a nice evening.

Friday 11^th

Fine.  The Gibsons left about `11 & we were just going out with Miss F when the Miss Cumines & Miss M Burnett called. We took them back by the river & then we walked round by Cairnton.  Some of their party called.  We also had a long walk before dinner.  Kate not very w ell.  They played whist at night. 

Saturday 12^th

Lovely.  When we were taking Miss F to the coach up drove Mary Anne & Pat with Miss Till & the two eldest girls.  After deeding them I drove them to Cairnton & walked back  by the river, eating brambles & all sorts of trash.  We went to the garden. Dined early & all of them went off at 6.

Sunday 13^th October 1850

Fine. We went to church and after dinner my class came as usual.  They all seemed so attentive. D read a sermon at night.

Monday 14^th

Boisterous.  After lunch W and I went to call at Campfield & put Duncan out of carriage at Dalhaikie.  A note from Arthur to Aleck says M is better.

Tuesday 15^th

Cloudy.  They ought to have gone to Warthill this week but cannot.  DW and I called for the Dyce Nicholls at Ballogie.  She seems pleasant.  They are going to build a new house.    Had writing to do at night.  Pat & MA had a party today.

Wednesday 16^th

Fine  warm.  It was the Fast day and we all went to church.  Mr Wright preached a beautiful sermon.  We met the Nicols in the village. W & I went out & sat by the river for hours enjoying ourselves so much. D & K dined at Glassel.  We did not sit up they were so late.  We had a nice quiet night. 

Thursday 17^th

Fine.  Enjoyed our walk together.  I drove Mama to Banchory & W & Kate came to meet us then we two called on Miss Burnett & Mrs Bell.  We went to dine at Glassel where they are giving a series of parties.  We were late too & Kate & I each night carried off the pools.  Miss A Grant, Major Erskine, Capt Forbes Inverernan & Mr Ivison were staying there & the Thos Innes at dinner. 

Friday 18^th

Cloudy.  We paid visits among the bodies at East Mains who were glad to see us.  We were late of getting home.  Some of them amuse us much.  It is difficult to know their characters.  We heard of the death of Mr Clarke.  Mamma & I called at Banchory Lodge then to Arbeadie where Mr & Mrs Burnett and Mr. Arch. Garden are staying & then we went to the churchyard & to see poor Mrs Gordon at Deebank.  Mrs Harry Lumsden is dead & leaves 4 little orphans.

Sunday 19^th October 1850

Showery.  Just before church Major Erskine & Mr Michell called & offered to do anything in Aberdeen for us. We went to church except Kate who is very weak.  Mr McCombie preached.  We made our calls & enquired for poor John Strachan who is no better.  Heard from Mrs B.

Monday 21^st

Showery. Went to church & mr Brown preached a beautiful sermon.  Too wet to enjoy a walk.  Read & played.

Tuesday 22^nd

Finer a little.   We went out early by river, picked up Duncan & sent him to Banchory some messages.  D & mamma had their game at backgammon, we reading.

Wednesday 23^rd

Fine.  We 3 all went out together while D took K for a short drive.  They are leaving directly as they have heard of poor Mrs F at York being so ill & wishing them all near her.  They mean to let Glassel & remain at Forcett as it is troublesome moving twice a year & mr  M has more to occupy him there.  They told us who was all at Raemoir.  D & W dined there & met the Buchans Auchmacoy, the Abercrombies Forglen, Leiths, Capt J Forbes & Major Erskine.

Thursday 24^th

Wet.  D & W started at 10 o’clock with post horses to Whiteley where our own awaited them & went to lunch at Drumrossie and on to     dinner at Warthill.  Kate was not well enough to accompany them.  I worked all day but packed up myself & rushed out for an hour to revive myself. Wading work it was!  As we sat in the library after din e r we heard the door bell & breathlessly wondered who it could be when in walked Mr Whyte, my brother’s tutor now minister of Methlie.  We had a very nice instructive evening & a hot meat supper which an uncommon fact nearly upset K’s & my gravity.  Mr W conducted our evening worship. We bade him adiewa as he was to elve very early.  A pity Duncan was absent. 

Friday 25^th

Fine, but such roads.  I drove Kate to Banchory after lunch & then |I drove Mama to Bridge of Canny.  I afterwards took some flannel comforts to the East Mains & heard all their grievances.  I wrote a long letter to Maggie to Turin. We had such a nice merry one from here yesterday.  They were at Milan & gave a slight description of their passage by the St Gothard pass then to Como buit they both admire Lucerne the most. 

Saturday 26^th

Fine.  Had a note from D to say they were to remain till Tuesday as the Abercrombies were there & they were to be a day aty Drumrossie.  I was disappointed at first.  We all went out & enquire for John Strachan, coming home by east gate.  Worded & read at night.

Sunday, 27^th October 1850

Went to church in the car & brought Miss Macrae so far back.  Had a letter from Patk & heard about Jamie’s affairs.  I had my ncie class as usual.  I read a sermon aloud at night.

Monday 28^th

Fine.  Mr Michell called here & then Kate & drove to Glassel to say good bye.  Heard a poor account of Mrs F. We are sorry to lose the Nicholls, but hope Glassel may suit some of ‘our’ people next year. We drove home through Dalhaikie.  Expected Aleck from Strathdon but he staid at Aboyne with the architect Mr Mathers.

Tuesday 29^th

Very fine.  Aleck arrived at 11 o’clock.  He and I had a logn walk by the hill & the old Glassel road, through the land now improving.  We found D and dear W arrived when we came back & they told us all their news & how most kindly they had been treated.  I wrote lots of letters & got a good many.  We drank Pat’s health at night. They had a game of whist in the evening.

Wednesday 30^th

Fine, windy.  Aleck left early.  We dined early & then W & I walked to Banchory & to call at Mavis bank where Mrs Ross of Rossie is staying. We met Capt Young on his way to Inchmarlo & he went on & saw Mama after our shopping we met him returning.  AM & Bella Gordon came by the evening coach to tea.

Thursday 31^st

Warm & damp.  Kate & her sisters did not go to church, but we did as this was the day of thanksgiving for the harvest.  After reading our letters & lunch we , AM, W & I, went out for a long walk.   Puzzling to find out ciphers at night.

NOVEMBER 1850

Friday 1^st November 1850

Warm & damp & cloudy.  Some went out early.  Mr & Mrs Dyce Nicol of Ballogie called but could not stay luncheon.  After lunch Mrs Ross & Miss Macrae called & offered Duncan Mavisbank which they wish to let & then go to Edinburgh.  We think it will do nicely for them.  W & I walked back by the river with them.  Heard that Mrs Coats is ill & can’t come on Tuesday.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Saturday 2^nd

Fine. D, K & I went to look at the accommodation at Mavis bank & joined Mama in the village. We met Mrs Young there & promised to go & see her.  We had a letter from a foreign post office instead of from |Maggie, asking for more postage.

Sunday 3^{rd November 1850}

Fine. AM & Bella walked to church at Banchory. We went as usual.  I had my class after dinner. The others went out. Duncan read two of Blunt’s lectures.

Monday 4^th

Cold, windy & showery.  D K & AM went to Raemoir to call. W & I walked from Banchory to Feugh and sat with Mrs Young.  It poured on our way back to meet the carriage and we took shelter in our old cook Mrs Stephenson’s house and missed it, but Mama sent it back to pick us up.

Tuesday 5^th

Wet roads.  D &  K left per mail to pay Pat a visit & arrange about their house.  AM & I had a kind of walk afterwards.  They went in with Arthur Farquhar who has just announced his intended marriage to a Miss Rickman. We tried to light the stove but only succeeded at first in thoroughly smoking the whole house!  Reading aloud one of Sir Walter Scott’s novels at night. This is the anniversary of the Gun Powder plot, which is expected to be most loyally kept, considering the Pope’s late proceeding, electing 12 Bishoprics in England & 7 in Scotland.  I think the times are most serious none of us know what power may yet be assumed here by Rome.  We ought to be well grounded in our belief and pray earnestly that our country may be well directed to resist properly such claims.  Considering what a mass of foreigners may come to the Great Exhibition next spring, much harm may be done to Protestant England when so many of her church already lean to Romish doctrines. 

Wednesday 6^th

Fine.  As I heard Mary Lindsay is going to Jersey I went to Banchory Lodge to see if they had any parcel to send the Ramsays & heard how ill Miss Burnett has been.  Then called at Arbeadie & the Manse. Went to the East Mains after lunch.

Thursday 7^th

Finish.  We dined early as Pat MA Duncan && K came out in the evening to tea.  Sat with AM in her room.  They heard a few days ago of the death of a cousin, one of the Abergeldie boys.   D & Kate have done a number of things in town most satisfactorily.

Friday 8^th

Fine.  Willie has bad toothache in the front teeth.  MA Mama & I had a nice long walk & spoke of Maggie.  Pat & K went to Dalhaikie.  We had a game of whist in the evening.

Saturday 9^th

Damp.  How well I remember this time last year.  Our own dear Father was taken to Aberdeen, never to come back.  I cannot forget the feeling when he was carried to the carriage and then when we were left how very desolate we felt.  Willie had a leech applied.  I wrote letters to Geneva. There was such a magnificent sun set, we took a run out to see it & it was dark when we returned.

Sunday 10^th November 1850

AM walked to chapel.  We went to church as usual.  My class came. D read the sermon Dr Cumine preached before the Queen at Crathie, giving his views on Baptism,. Which is at present such a disputed point in England.

Monday 11^th

Fine.  Pat & MA left us.  Pat has been cutting down some fine trees on lawn which I think a sad pity. Mrs Ross & Miss Macrae called again.  They stayed lunch & I walked back with them & was picked up by  D & K who had called at Dee Bank.

Tuesday 12^th

Fine. We were all out a great deal and AM sketched the lodge for Pat very nicely.   Mrs Coates & Kate Leslie came about 4 o’clock.  Another fine sunset.  We had great fun in the evening the old peple at whist, & we at the old maid!!    Mrs Coates so well.  11 years since she was here before.

Wednesday 13^th

Fine but so cold.  We took Mrs C to call at Banchory Lodge & Raemoir. She was surprised to see Mrs Forbes so well & entire but so small.  AM Kate Leslie & I had a constitutional, round by Cairnton, afterwards.  Whist again.

Thursday 14^th

Frosty & bright.  I went with Mrs C & Kate to Crathes. She saw Miss B & Sir A came to talk to us.  We went into the garden. KL and I went for a walk the Glassel Road.  We two & AM dined at Raemoir, with the Pitcaples, Drums & Drumminoirs!    I forgot to order the carriage so we were late of getting home.  A musical evening.

Friday 15^th

Hard frost & bright.  Mrs Coats & KL left us. After seeing them off had a charming walk on to the bridge together.  Had a letter sent for perusal from Arthur giving an account of their perilous journey across the Col de Tendee to Nice where they met the Philip Hollands.  Willy & Bella dined at Raemoir where the only addition was the Marquis and Robt Burnett.  We got them some pretty flowers & rolled the girls well up. 

Saturday 16^th

Soft.  The 4 little Gordons Deebank called. We invited them to lunch on Moonday. Then Sir Alex & Robt Burnett came.  The Bart still lame. Will AM & I then walked to Banchory & looked at some lodgings for the Gordons as Duncan has taken Mavis Bank for a year.  AM was tired & drove back with Terry the baker.  Aleck came per evening coach.  W & I wrote letters till nearly 12 at night.

Sunday 17^th November 1850

Fine, frosty.  We all went to church, the Gordons walking to Chapel.  My class cas usual & it is wonderful h ow well they get on & seem so attentive. Duncan read aloud at night.

Monday 18^th

Fine.  Duncan went to Aberdeen by the coach, Aleck walked in & ordered a warm bath on his arrival.  The 4 Gordons & Miss Read the governess came to lunch & seemed to enjoy themselves poor tings.  I walked to see Mrs Taylor at Woodhill & speak of ‘a place’ for Jeannie.  D came home to tea at night with little news

Tuesday 19^th

Wet.  I had a headache & stayed in bed to breakfast.  We had two long letters from Maggie from Genova very interesting.  They met the Hollands at Nice.  She was delighted yet worn out with the severe journey across the Maritime Alps.  I knitted a little mat & finished it today!  They were busy packing. Some of them took a damp walk to see the river which is high.

Wednesday 20^th

Wet.   W’s birthday.  Still packing. We young people took a constitutional walk through the bedrooms!  We took tea before dinner with the children as a treat.  We had a most merry game of Pope Joan at night.

Thursday 21^st

Fine.  After breakfast Duncan and his large party left, 9 persons in all.  We shall m iss the dear children much we have had them so long.  It is the first time we have3 been alone since before May’s marriage.  W & I went to Banchory Lodge to enquire for Miss Burnett.  We had a long amusing chat with old Mrs McD the housekeeper, who kept lauding the merits of the young Captain to the skies.  Mama took a walk with us after lunch.  We moved the piano to the dining room where it will stand all winter.  I wrote a long letter to Maggie.

Friday 22nd

Damp & wretched outside.   I must say we all feel very comfortable round the bright fire.  Heard they all got safe to town in their monster coach & got pretty well settled by night. Read lvies of the Lindsays aloud.

Saturday 23^rd

Soft & bright. Worked all the morning.  We were just going to walk to Banchory when we met Aleck walking up the avenue so he made us all get ready & go up to Desswood with him & we enjoyed it much.  Chatting & writing all evening.

Sunday 24^th

Fine on the whole. We had a splendid sermon from Mr H from Eccles. 20^th.  My class came as usual. Aleck read a sermon at night.   Sat in the library.

Monday 25^th

Damp.  Read, practised, wrote.  Had a short walk with Willie & called at the boathouse to have a crack with Mrs Dower.  Aleck left early. 

Tuesday 26^th

Fine.  We went out early, met the post with plenty of letters from Mrs J Burnett, Miss Brebner, MA etc and Aleck, who  is coming out to dinner. We drove out in the afternoon.  Al & Mr Mathews the architect came. We had whist in the evening & looked over plans which may do for the house Aleck proposes building at Desswood.

Wednesday 27^th

Very frosty, a powdering of snow.    We paid visits at East Mains all the morning.  Mr Hutchieson called when w were out. They came back from Desswood where the gents were all day to diner, but it was too cold to go in in a dog cart so we had an evening of whist.    Took Mr Matthews through the house.  Several letters today, too. 

Thursday 28^th

Fine & hard frost.   The gents left at 8 o’clock.  This is Tatty Moir’s wedding day to Mr Dundas of Carron Hall.   Dear pretty little bride.  We were arranging accounts all the evening & sit cosily in the library. 

Friday 29^th

Cloudy. We called at the Manse & Arbeadie, where the 2 Miss Lumsdens Belhelvie are on a visit. Took a turn after dinner.  We had some nice books ‘Revelations of Russia’ and ‘Rambles in the Harz Mountains’ by Hans Andersen, etc, etc.

Saturday 30^th

Fine, frosty.  Busy all the morning writing & reading. After dinner drove to the village & to Banchory Lodge.  We went to examine the house at Mavis Bank which the Macraes have left D in beautiful order.  We walked home with Mamma.

DECEMBER 1850

Sunday December 1^st 1850

We all went to Church & the sermon was most instructive.  All my girls came as usual.   Will read one of Newton’s sermons at night.

Monday 2^nd

Fine warm day.  Pat arrived unexpectedly by coach & was out all day. We called at Deebank & looked at some cottages for the Gordons at Feugh.  We played whist all together at night.

Tuesday 3^rd

Lo0vely day.  Saw a letter from Maggie to Bella from Sant Pietra.  Arthur has bought a fine copy of Canova’s Maddalena at Carara.  Pat left per mail.  Calder the coachman went to preside at a marriage!  Busy at night arranging accounts.

Wednesday 4^th

Also lovely for the season.  Making lists all the morning. W & I walked to Banchory & enjoyed it much.  We were joined by a  nice old woman on the road who chatted most unreservedly when she found out our names.  She spoke much of Papa who knew her husband well.  She is the Mother of our tenant at Hollan Bush.  All this day last year we gave up all hope of his life beyond a few hours.  This change came suddenly & startled us all tho we had anxio9usly watched for 8 weeks.  How vividly it all comes back to my mind. 

Thursday 5^th

Quite warm &  bright.  Made some further arrangements in the list way.  We went up to old Annie Middleton to get some stockings knitted & stayed out too long, till after the dinner hour.  Read & wrote in the evening.

Friday 6^th

Lovely.  Went early for a drive by the Dalhaikie road, where we have so often been with dear Papa.  How well we remember our pleasant walks with him. We went to see Donald Coutts at the Mains then to old Willie Duncan, who was quite overjoyed to see us & we found they needed some help from us.  We went to various other cottages on the way home & were again too late.  Our new butler, John McGilavry came.

Saturday 7^th

Hot, unnaturally for the season.  Went early to Banchor Lodge & saw Mrs Forbes looking so very small she is 98.  We walked to Woodhead.  It was so beautiful.  Mrs Marchant is a sensible woman, her eldest girl is one of my best scholars. This night last year was the saddest we have known.  We saw our father die, and oh what a father to lsoe. We spoke much of it.  I often can’t believe we shall nto again see him among us.  It seems so short a time & yet much has happened.  Maggie’s thoughts are sure to be with us, but she is now far away & married into another family.  What still greater changes may be ere another year .

Sunday 8^th December 1850. 

We three went to church.   I had my class. We read aloud as usual. 

Monday 9^th

Very frosty.   Haa drive with Mama & then a walk.  Went to call at Invercanny.  Wrote all the evening.

Tuesday 10^th

Fine bright frosty morning.  We went out to meet the post and came to read then when up drove Mrs Farquharson & Miss Burnett.  Heard of a sad accident at Pittodrie where Captain Millman fell from the Portico  and broke his back.  There is no hope I believe of his life, but he is quite resigned poor young man.  Old Willie Taylor told us he saw once that ‘death looks an old man in the face but it be at a young man’s back’.  How true.  We know not when it comes. Duncan, Kate, Aleck Mr Mathews came to tea a heavy one.  We three chatted while Mama & the gents played whist.

Wednesday 11^th

Soft.  Aleck & Mr M went to Desswood & on to Alford.  We all went to inspect the premises at Mavis bank before lunch.  After we went to inspect Glassel & W & I had a chat at boathouse before dinner.  A nice evening together.

Thursday 12^th

Fine.  My birthday. This day last year I shall never forgot.  I saw the old calm unanswering face of my dearest father and heard no welcome from him.  A birthday is like a milestone in our journey of life.  Oh may I have an assurance that I am proceeding onwards with the hope of a joyful termination.  May I be able to resign my will to everything.  ‘Lead  thou me on’.  I do not ask to see the distant scene – one step enough for me. 

Friday 13^th

Damp.  I forgot to say Mama & Went to the churchyard yesterday.  I was too late, having stayed too long at our visits to East Mains, etc.  dr Thom called today. We were busy putting things away and went to Crathes.;  saw Miss Burnett.   Wrote letters & read Harriet Skene’s book.  I had a letter from Arthur from Florence.

Saturday 14^th

Stormy wind.   Packing all the morning.  Mr & Mrs Innes & Mrs Al; & her boy came to call.  Also Dr Adam but as we were at dinner we did not admit him.  Sat idly in the dark til tea time. Composed, I think, quite a pretty polka for my own musical amusement. 

Sunday 15^th December 1850

I have a bad cold. Went to Church and had my class, the last time this year.  If I am spared to return here in spring, I hope to resume it.  I gave them each some tea & biscuit and a nice little book with which they are delighted.  W read a beautiful sermon of John Westons on coming to Christ.  Mama talked seriously to Douglass the boy who leaves us tomorrow.

Monday 16^th

Bright.  Went early to settle some accounts in the village & then to Banchory Lodge.  Called at Bogarn (the shoemakers) and at several houses in our western quarter. After ea in walked Mr Smith who stayed two hours. We have had a levee of poor bodies all evening & several presents of eggs!  I shan’t be writing up my journal here again for some months.  I’m so sorry to go away from this, but I suppose it is best.

Tuesday 17^th

Fine.  We were busy & all ready to start at half 11 and got nicely into town in 2 hours and a half. Saw Duncan had some letters waiting me.  Had a message from Lady Forbes to see her at 4 but when we went they were just going to dine. Alick came from Leithhall at 6 and we were all settled comfortably together.  We went down at 6 to see Lady Forbes & sat with them at tea.  James is still confined to the sofa. They all leave tomorrow. Called n D & K after.

Wednesday 18^th

Very frosty.  We went out a little & then drove to Westfield where we were most kindly greeted.  Nothing but shaking hands all day long. We hear that Sir E. Sugden has made a fine speech against the papal  and for amending the Catholic Laws.  I do hope all who have talent will speak boldly out for the cause of truth & stop these sad things in the bud.  I trust every Protestant feeling will strengthen.

Thursday 19^th

Frosty & cold.

Went out to collect accounts. Called to ask for Mr Leslie at t he Terrace, who was not well.  The W Leslies are there & Miss Till & some of the children at Warthill.  Little Duncan came to tea.  We had calls from Alick Pirie, etc.  Al dined at the Terrace.  P & MA dined at Keppleston.

Friday 20^th

A little snow.  Met numbers of people come in for the term. Paid lots of small accounts. Went to see Kate.  D dined with us  but went home early. 

Saturday

Damp, wet.    Went to call on Mrs Leslie Rothie but she had left town.  Then went to see Jessy & got all wet coming home.  The piano was nicely tuned & my harp was set to rights.  Mrs Smith called .  Mary Anne and little Mary came to dinner.  It was her birthday & Pat & D went to the Club.  Leslies left & took Duncanie with them.

Sunday 22^nd December 1850.

Damp. Went twice to church & looked in to see the Gordons at D’s. Uncle & Mrs Pirie called between sermons. Al read aloud.

Monday 23^rd

Fine.  Little Aleckie Innes came to see us. We paid several small accounts. Sir Andrew |L Hay called. We afterwards met him.  Very warm day.  I had a turn with AM G. Aleck &| I dined at Miss Mary Young’s and admired Mrs Ross of Arnage so much.  Mama & Willie went to Duncan’s it being Minny’s birthday. Poor Capt Milman is dead after lingering a fortnight.

Tuesday 24^th

Fine but essentially dirty streets.  Paying accounts.  Met Sir Andrew & had an amusing chat in Wyllies.  Also met Charley Hay who is very ridiculous, still we like him.  Mrs William Lumsden & Mrs Moir Denmore called. AM dined here also Mr. Meiklejohn & Johnny.  We took tea with MA to help her to arrange accounts.

Wednesday, Christmas day

Fine, windy.  Breakfasted at half past 8 as Aleck left per coach for Buchan.  Pat came in from Inchmarlo where he has been for a day. Duncan’s three chicks & little Mary came to dinner which judging by their appetites they seemed to enjoy   we just went down to see Kate.   Pat & MA came round to tea.  We played a game of whist.

Thursday 26^th

Damp.  W & I called at Banchory but saw no one. We then went to pay the rest of our accounts and only came in to a late lunch which we made our dinner.  Mrs. W. Moir  & Maggie called also Mrs Mitchell.  We called at Dr Keiths I went to the Haydn concert with P, MA and AM.  Enjoyed it much.

Friday 27^th  December

Rather drier.  Mama Will & I went to see Lady James Hay.  She was so kind.  We then came round by Old Aberdeen & enquired  for Mrs Arthur Forbes & after wards W & I called on Janet Forbes at Broadford.  I meant to take tea with Kate, but as the Gordons were out she sent to tell me & as I was tired I didn’t go.  We two settled all our own  and Mama’s books for the year.  Lady Hay called also Mr J Forbes.  I had a letter from Maggie from Rome.

Saturday 28^th December

Fine.   Bella came up early to see us with Fanny.  Went out a little, called on Mrs Bannerman.  We hear of Aleck’s marriage to five different ladies!  Alick returned from Buchan.  He & I dined at Miss Murray’s and we had music & a little dancing in the evening.

Sunday 29^th

Wet.  We went to the West Church in the morning, |Pat & I went to the East in the afternoon.  A gentleman, Mr. Duguid was found drowned in the harbour!   Aleck read aloud as usual.

Monday 30^th

Wetish.  The streets are in a horrible condition.  We called on Mr s Mitchell & Lady Hay & on Mrs Lamond.   Miss Murray came to tea and gave us a deal of  news telling us all about Capt Farquhar’s marriage.  Mrs |Hogarth called on Mama while we were out.

Tuesday 31^st December 1850

Liquid mud and fog predominate.   Went out early to buy toys for the babes that call tomorrow.  Mrs A Pirie called & sat an hour waiting for her husband.  Could not go to the meeting on the new endowment scheme.  Mr & Mrs Hutchieson came & dined at 4 before going home.  Willie & I went to drink tea with Miss Helen Robertson.  She had such a pretty idea in having a little lottery and a trifling gift for each of the party. We enjoyed ourselves very much.  Duncanie came to tea with Mama & stayed all night, as his sisters were at Lady Dunbar’s.  He expected something to happen when the new year came in so we dressed Aleck up most grotesquely and woke Duncan to receive him.  He is in delight with a box of tools I have given him.  We all wished each other a happy new year and went to sleep.

 

 

 

 

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