Republic of Texas Journal and Diary
Bennet, Miles Squier. ORIGINAL AUTOGRAPH JOURNAL (signed M.S.B. on first page), May 25, 1838 to May 27, 1854. 52 pages (including 2 blank) on 24 mostly 4to sheets (2 are four page folded). Some sheets spilt where folded, 11 sheets with tears repaired or edges reinforced with cellotape, one leaf is actually two sheets glued onto a stiff paper backing, housed in a maroon morocco clamshell case with gilt titles.	
The journal spans his life from his arrival in Texas in 1838 at age 20 to his life as a farmer on the Guadalupe River in the Hill Country in 1854, mostly in DeWitt County (Gonzales area), and also in San Antonio and exploring excursions to Western Texas.
Transcript of Journal:
San Antonio de Bexar Oct. 19, One day in the summer I lost my Journal, but I think the followin^g is pretty correct.
A)
Fri. May 25, 1838. 10 o clk I left Cincinnati on the mail boat for Louisville, where we arrived that evening about 9 o clk. Father and went immediately and took passage for N. evening
Orleans on the Wm. French. took our trunk and slept aboard of her that night, and started Sat. 26. at 12 o clk and arrived at N. Orleans on Thurs. 11 o clk PM. Father and I went immediately on board of the Steam Ship Columbia and engaged our passage, and Fri.
engaged
June I stet sail for Galveston where we arrived at 1 PM late 3d.
Mon 4th 9 o clk started on the Sam Houston for Houston where we arrived on that night. Being I know exactly 10-1/2 days from Cincinnati to Houston.
Tuesday June 5th we took breakfast on the boat, I dined at Mad. Malone's for one dollar. Father and I engaged board at Bearddie's at	per week each.
Mon. June 18th PM. Father Mr. Long, and Myself left, encamped at camp 10 miles from Long
 19th we went by Dr. Hunter's to Richmond on the Brazos at fort bend, 24 m[----]
Wed 20th, left Richmond, overtook Judge Robinson on the way. Stopped about noon at
stream. Saw two wild turkies, killed an alli^gator, 3 or 4 foot in height, we parted
the Judge in the afternoon, went to Danons, near the mound, in the night the dogs ate our
nigh
 Thurs 21 got some beef and took an early start. Took breakfast by a wat[ ---- ] in a
deserted house, took dinner near Mrs Powells who gave us some butter, supped and lodged at Mr Anders.
Sat 23rd came from Wm Andres to West Bern, staid till Dinner, got a musket, left and go
 to Meruns(?). fared well.
Sab 24 got early brkfst crossed the Colorado. Came up on a high prarie, chased a hig
 lost my [um]brella cover, went on and dined at a stream in the middle of the

Sab 24 got early brkfst crossed the Colorado. Came up on a high prarie, chased a raccoon, lost my [um]brella cover, went on and dined at a stream in the middle of the prarie, very [ ---- ] came on to near Sutherlands and to Texana — at the latter place I was taken in company by my Father who knew almost every one in the place many of them old residents of Texas. I was made acquainted with [a lady who was formerly acquainted with my Mother in her previous [----] marriage — we left Texana and went up the Lavaca — one sultry day after dinner our companion Mr Long was thrown from his mule
and his sh[oulder] so badly bruised as to make him nearly helpless — I was left to hold the umbrella o[ver] him in the hot prarie while Father went to the house for a waggon to convey in, when arrived at the house of Widow Kent all the
attention was given our unfortunate friend that could be afforded — we staid a few days with him, but finding he would not for a long time be able to ride and Father being under orders in the service of the Govt. we left him with a horse — money —clothes and resumed our journey towards Gonzales — in company with two of the settlers who appeared to have business thither. in this country there is constant danger from Indians and traveling over the big prarie and over the big hill near Mc Clures is considered interesting and exciting from the danger attending it. We crossed the big hill at sun[----] a strong breeze said to be the breeze from the Bay made the evening pleasant. We arrived without accident at Mc Clures about 10
miles from Gonzales
Up to July 1839. [Later note at top of page] 1
San Antonio de Bexar Oct. 12th 1838.
Time is short and soon passes away, and once gone is gone forever, By keeping an exact account of each day of ones life, one lives longer, that is, he does not dream away so much of his existence, he will have the opportunity of viewing the follies of each day and avoiding them in future, and in keeping the record he will have an history of his own life to which he can refer in future days — I regret that I did not begin my Diary several years ago, for I would like very much to have an exact account of all the little incidents that occasioned me pleasure or pain, man
is said spend the morning of his day in wishing for the future, and the evening in regretting the past, but there is little happiness without contentment which I think might be cultivated by having a record to refer to in which one might see both the dark and light sides of past experiences life is made up of circumstances and each incident bears its proportionate share.
Fri. Sept. 21st 8 o clk A.M. Wm. H. Hargis (Fathers hired man) and myself started with a company of surveyors, for the Leona river passed the Leon. about seven miles from the city of Bexar, passed 14 mile water hole, and arrived at the damp at the Medina river about 3 o clk P.M. after dinner some went hunting, returned unsuccessful, after we laid down at night there was some appearances
of an approaching storm, Hargis arose and commenced erecting a tent, I with my usual contrary inactive disposition opposed the measure, but Hargis persevered, and made it large enough for both of us, and about midnight the rain commenced and I was glad to take shelter with him in the tent. I would advise next time to

bring a plenty of blankets and clothing and and a pair of old shoes for if it should rain you will see the need of them.
Sat 22nd we arose but as it was raining we soon got wet thru. some half dozen of us went and drew down some of santa anna's old-mexican carts and made us a great fire which lasted nearly all day. Mr Fielding shot a buck, and Hargis a fawn. Sab 23d made some coffee and proceeded to the Charcone, a waterhole where we arrived about 11 o clk. took dinner and went to the Hondi [i.e. Hondo], which was very dry. about a quarter of a mile to the right of the road there were some water holes where we camped about six o clk. P.M. I stood last watch (10 hours long). Mr Jones (of whom I had very wrongfully and foolishly formed a poor opinion) arose before daybreak and shot some Turkies.
Mon. 24th after breakfast we started about 5 miles from the Hondi. a half mile to the left of the road, is the Tiwackany. (a water hole where Cox took the Mexican caviard(?) and killed a boy) there was no more water from there to the Rio Frio where we arrived in the afternoon. I caught some fish, was angry with Mr Fisk for nothing
Tues 25th I caught some more fish. we left for the Leona, no water 'till we get there. we arrived there after mid-day crossed over the bridge. old Torn the pack mule went into the river (which I might have and ought to prevented but for my stubbornness) and mired. Wet the provisions and came near being lost but Mr Fisk and Hargis with their usual good will and promptness stripped and went in and rescued him, shortly afterward. Jones, Hargis, Fisk, and myself being together there were some rigs run on an individual in our mess for his wanting so much waiting on and for his being a real shirk. and it suiting my own character so well, I with my usual suspicious disposition applied it all to myself and being angry I gave him some sharp words but they did not get angry with me but assured me that I was mistaken. they did not mean me. I was ashamed and resolved that I would endeavor in future not to merit the name of a shirk. (and I did wish I could stick to my resolution)
Wed 26th I put on my leggings, and lost my mule. which troubled me considerably Hargis and I looked for and soon found him.
Thurs. 27 1 fished all the A.M. caught but little. shot one turkey.
Fri 28 We moved camp on mile up the river. We caught one fish. in the P.M. I went hunting with Mr Jones. he killed some turkies. I shot and missed one.
Sat 29 1 went hunting with Mr Hare. about noon we being hungry I caught four good fish. he made fire and cooked them and we eat three of them
 
Sab 30 after breakfast I caught a mess of fish.
Mon Oct. 1 1 moved camp on mile up the river. I caught plenty of fish.
Tues 2d I caught plenty of fish. Mr Elihu Moss (who came with the packs form Bexar the day before) killed a fine buck and packed it on his shoulders. a flock of Turkies came near to camps and we all shot at them. had considerable sport. I killed a fine fat one. In the evening I went hunting with Mr Jones, and we shot one turkey.
Wed 3d moved 3 miles up.
Thurs 4th. Judge Hood and I caught fish. Fri 5th I caught a fine fish early in the morn. We moved two and a half miles up.

Sat 6th I spent fishing with Mr. Hare.
Sab 7th I went to guard the surveyors while they surveyed our 1280* tract they did not quite complete the survey.
Mon 8th. Hood, Patton Black, Hargis, Cruse, Bolivar, & myself started from the camps for the city encamped near the Trivackany. Tues arrived at the Medina. Weds 10th arriving in Bexar about noon both Patton's and Bolivars horses having tired out were left on the road.
Thurs 11th Father, Hargis, & myself rode up to the head of the springs of the San Antonio River to get Hay. to day the 12th Father and Hargis are gone to look for the oxen. I staid home the Sab Sat 13th A.M. Hargis and myself took a short ride P.M. Hargis went to look for Garrety's horses. Mr E. Moss, [*This was Fathers Certificate no. 3774 for military services.] is staying with us for a day or two.
Sab AM after breakfast Father and Mr Small rode out to look for a public beef. I sat in the house most of the day reading Goldsmiths essays & not much happiness. I flatter myself that if I were enjoying the privileges I once did in Cincinnati, That I would live more devoted to God, and I do not take pleasure in spending my Sabbaths as I do. at this moment I am far from being contented.
Mon. 14 Two of our mules having broke out of the stable the night before I set out early on my mule in quest of them. It was a fine ride. the air was bracing, and the bright morning sun cheered all nature with his beams. After breakfast I set out again to graze my mule. I stopped for a few moments on the ditch where I gathered some Pecans. I rode on up, stopping to gather nuts grapes and plums. in this manner I spent the day pleasantly. in riding home I met Hargis who had found his mule. also Father. They was looking for me not knowing where I was, were uneasy.
Tues 15th The two tailors commenced making Hargis' clothes. I staid around about the house shooting cowbirds I shot away 25 cents worth of shot in 6 shots, got 6 birds which only made two thirds of a pint of meat when cleaned. I was about half a day at this business. Hargis had gone to look for old Tom the pack mule, but did not find him.
Wed. 16th Hargis and I stared after early breakfast, over to the Lalow to look for the oxen, as it threatened rain, we went well prepared, it commenced, soon Friday June 7th procured some bladders to carry coffee & c in on our expedition. bot four Ibs coffee at 31/4 [perhaps 31-1/4?] cents (silver) per lb. The city streets are very dry and dusty there is a fine breeze, but that makes it more dusty —After supper Mr Higginbotham asked me to assist him in apprehending a man who is supposed to be the murderer of the unfortunate Mr Delmour. We did not know where the man was, but from some information Mr H had received we supposed that we would find him down at some of the Ranches on the river, as no time was to be lost we mounted and rode down to San Jose where we passed the night. next morning 8th Mrs H gat us a good American breakfast, and Mr Alsbury accompanied us on our journey down the river. We passed the night at La Roches ranch. my saddle had hurt the back of my mare.
Sun 9th Mr H procured a sheepskin for me to fix my saddle with which saved my mare some pain. as we had not succeeded in obtaining any additional intelligence about the murderer, we started back for Bexar. stopped at Mochan's

Rancho. got some dinner. Mr H having bot a horse, Mr. Neill who wished to come to town agreed to ride him up, but when just in the act of mounting the horse fell down on him and sprained his leg— how strange are the dealings of Providence and his ways past finding out. we accordingly came by ourselves to Mr Hs house at San Josè when although it was a late hour in the night Mrs Higginbotham made us an excellent supper a young man by the name of Dickens came up with us for the purpose of accompanying us on the Indian hunts after supper we took our horses and slept them out in the musquit to afford them an opportunity of eating grass. the Mexicans at San Josè held a fandango all night and fired off guns and yelled like Indians
Mon 10th and a great deal of trouble about getting ready to go on the campaign against the Indians we were divided into messes of different sizes Messrs Higginbotham, Meverick, Spooner, Dickens, & myself formed one mess, and packed our supplies on Mr Mevericks mule. we were afterwards joined by Messrs Small, Edwards & James which made our number eight. We all out of town and encamped at the head of the river. a gentleman by the name of Chrysler was accidentally shot by his pistol going off in his belt, but the wound was slight. in the evening we moved camp over on the west side of town, where we held an election for commander in chief, Cols Karnes and Seguin were the candidates. Karnes was elected by a majority of one vote, we numbered about one hundred and Six in all. Mr Dolsen was 1st Lieut, King, 2d Lieut, A Niell adj. Dr Alsbury Sargent I stood on watch tonight.
Tues 11th Moved on over to the head of the Lion and encamped early in the day, in the evening it was reported that a few Indian spies were watching us &c.
Wed 12th Moved on in among the high hills trying to pass through did not succeed saw a large drove of wild horses, rain set in moved on up to St. Jeronemo and encamped. Spies were placed at the top of a very high hill on our right our horses tied out to eat & in a short time two or three of the spies were seen running down the hill in haste. we were ordered to hold fast to our horses supposing the Comanches were going to try to run them off, but it proved to be nothing more than a bear that they had seen and some of them were coming to get their horses and lances that they might kill him which they did in short order. it was far and good. in the night it was raining. Mr James was sick.
Thurs 13th several Mustangs were caught, Rain, did not move camp till late in the PM, and but a short distance up the same stream, water good and in one place six or eight feet deep—rain.
Fri 14th Moved over into another valley and encamped
Sat 15th Moved over into the valley of bandero and encamped for dinner water always a plenty —
Sab 16th encamped on the Medina I caught some fish, PM moved up half a mile and sent out spies to find Indians, cut down a very large cypress tree for honey, my legs were very sore being poisoned.
Mon 17th did not move camp, a hond[i.e. horned] frog was found and given to the Dr who was along. I stood watch in the night
Tues 18th Myself and another were sent out to reconoiter. We rode up, in a short distance of a bear. I lost my shot. We saw some old Indian camps but no new

signs We got back to camp just as the spies had come in and reported they had seen Indians on the Aroya Hondi & Rio Frio We moved on in that direction about eight miles encamped. Made no fire, sent out the spies and were to meet them at a certain place about six miles off after arresting our horses we moved on to the place and encamped a good Mexican by the name of Pedro Flores was shot by the accidental discharge of a gun in the hands of a friend he can not live long. My legs are bad indeed.
Wed 19th feel better as we want to push on, and as the wounded man can not travel a very nice booth was made for him and Col Seguin with 30 Mexicans & 10 Americans with all the blankets clothing provision &c that we did not actually need with the packs were left at the camp the others of us just taking a little provision for a day or two went on to give the Indians a fight. a bear was seen by Mr Winchell. we soon came to a small trail but a few days old, and afterwards to a fine tract of country which I should judge was a favorite campground of the Indians. grass was good and a great many bones of wild animals lay about —The Indians had not long since left a number of their tent-poles still remained standing we waited a few minutes in the shade of the trees for the spies to
take their trail. some guns were stacked up against a tree. one accidentally was knocked against another which it discharged and although it was surrounded by men yet it Providentially hurt no one. but we did not know but what the Indians were within hearing distance and would be put on their guard. passed on over into the canon de Ubaldo thought we saw horses. were mistaken. went over a fine tract of land passed a large beaten road which led on up the valley. came to a camp which had been deserted about three days encamped there on the bank of the Rio Frio. pass good, water very fine, a fine spring just up the bank a few yds with as good water as I would wish to drink. moved down the Comanche road near to the mouth of the valley encamped.
Thurs 20th went on down the same road crossed the Rio twice came to a place where there had at some time been a human body suspended from a limb of a tree and fire made under it the bones lay about &c
[Begins as he is returning to Texas. Is in New Orleans going to Galveston on the packet Neptune and bringing his Sister with her "bed and trunk" ]
Jan 2d 1840 awoke up this morning [ --- ?] new [ --- ?] my trunk &c is all ready for transporting and my bible and Journal being locked up I do forego my Religious custom of Reading &c for the present — immediately after Breakfast I went to call on Mr Senica(?) Bennet who was very glad to see me and had me make his house my home & to Bring Sister also. He walked down to the boat with me and in a few minutes Uncle Glibbes (whom Cousin Charles had called on) came down and invited us to his house we all walked up with him and Sister will stay with her Cousin Margaret while cousin Charles & myself go home with Senica(?). Fri 3rd We are all well situated for the present, and will wait for a packet for Texas. In the meantime amuse ourselves the best way we can Called to see Dr Haenssler & lady on board the Caddo and joined them. Dr. H has placed some money in my hand for investment in Texas by him.

Sat 4 1 have a severe cold with sore sensation in the throat I have not yet taken off from the Steam Boat my luggage. I expect when I move it to put it on board the Texas packet, and I want to save trouble. After tea Cousin Senica took me around the city showing me some of the establishments for selling mask d-- ssis(?) for balls & c. my cold is pretty bad and affects the lungs; I feel uneasy about my baggage.
Sun 5 arose early and thought that I would see to my baggage. the Packet has not yet moved up, upon enquiry I found that the Caddo has gone for R River and my baggage is on board of her — in the morning I accompanied Sister, Cousin M & Dubore(?) & R to Service at the Methodist Church — in the afternoon to the Protestant burying ground.
Mon 6 Feel very unpleasant on some accts. The fact is I have been very remiss in my Religious duties, and by this casting loose on the Sea of the world with all its quicksand & Rocks without a helm to be — Bot a trunk of clothes price $50 hat Shoes &c.
Tues 7th The S Packet Neptune sails for Galveston this afternoon. Cousin Charles is still in New Orleans and would like to go to Texas with us but I do not know what to advise, and at the same time I feel anxious with regard to his welfare. Bot some garden seeds, some Fruit to eat, Dined with Cousin Senica, Walked up to Uncles house. Wrote a mem. of luggage for Dubose. after they had dined we got Ready had Sisters Bed & trunk &c Brayed down to the Neptune. Uncle, Cousin Charles & some friends accompanied Sister down to the packet. Cousin Senica & Dr Haenssler also came down to see us off. We got off just as was closing in. I noticed the mists rising up out of the ?] and soon all was enveloped in fog We got fairly underway just as
New Orleans Jan 7th (Tue) 1840. 5 oclk P.M. Left for Galveston on S Packet Neptune Capt Renoyer. Heard the noise of the guns on the arrival of Genl Jackson. Just after Tea a dense fog arose and we run on the left bank of the Missippi[sic] about 18 mille down by water laid by till morning.
Wed 8th Anniversary of the triumph of the Americans under Jackson over the British forces under Packenham at New Orl. The Hero is probably at N. Orleans today and there is great rejoicings started on just after day. while foggy saw a great many ships being towed down by the stream towboats, sail towed by one boat, sometimes as many as four. had to stop at about 4 o clk PM on acct of the fog. 7 o clk the day has been spent in eating, there being 1st Breakfast, 2d luncheon consisting of soup, dried meats, cold ham, tongue, bread, crackers, &c &c. 3d Dinner consisting of three courses, the last one being comprised of oranges, prunes, raisins, almons [sic] &c. Wine Brandy. 4th supper or Tea which is tolerably light — There have been 3 or 4 tables filled by gamblers for amusement. I have spent most of the day in company with Sister. —
Thurs 9th Last night it was quite rough, but I slept well, but upon arising I found that it was cloudy cold & disagreeable. felt a little sick but very slight. Sister was quite sea sick I spent some time with her. The remainder of the day I laid in my berth. but was not sick.

Sat 11th The ship lies at anchor but it is tolerably pleasant and we soon got underway and anchored at Galveston not however till the Steamer R Putnam bound for Sabine and took Dr A Swift with us from Putnam. he & also Genl.
Henderson & lady were very kind indeed, after going to the custom house and getting a permit to land my baggage (cost 20/100) had the trunks inspected by Custom house officer, and went on board the steamer Dayton from Pittsburg (price for each $20 T. money) which run very fast.
Sun 12th After Breakfast, arrived at Houston and took lodgings at Miss Morgans' in Company with Messrs Thompson from Ky & Gibson from Mississipp [sic] with their families, attended Divine service 3 times with Sister and was edified Mr
Reed preached in the AM. and evening & Mr Allen in PM. both Presbyterians. Mon 13th 1840 Messrs Thompson & Gibson and families leave town to day and I have made arrangements to start tomorrow — the weather is pleasant.
Tues 14th Started with Sister and took our Baggage, all in a small covered waggon. I am to give the driver two hundred and fifty dollars to take us to Gonzales, stopped near Canfields and let the horses eat, rain has set in and it is disagreeable. started on, the horses are so weak they can scarcely drag us on. consequently I walked. night is setting in and the rain is drizzling down, we are about half a mile from a Dutchmans house, but I fear we will scarcely get to it. We have almost to drag them all along by man strength, at last we have reached the house and told the people they must let us have the shelter of their roof for the night, after they found they could not get rid of us they used every exertion to make us comfortable, I feel glad to share the comforts of a god [sic] fire with them and think that tomorrow we will start back, if we cannot get horses first.
Wed 15 Arose early and started back towards town had a very disagreeable time, I walked most of the way, cold wind. arrived at Houston before night, and very glad was I, gave the man 20 dolls, wanted more.
Thurs 16 Walked about the city. called on Mr C at Adams & Harris store. Fri 17 do. & wrote to D B Gardner, & c.
Sat 18th Walked around the city looked on at an auction.
Sabbath 19th After Bkfst I accompd Sister and Mrs._ to Capitol, to service but as there was no preacher we went to the Episcopal, at the Court house when that service was gone through with without a preacher. PM no church Sister & I walked out; after supper sat and conversed on an interesting topic.
Mon 20th Looked on at an Auction, strolled round town, and read at home.
Cloudy weather and promising rain, a little cold, & c. no news.
Tues 21st Rain set in just before day, am continued; I spent the AM in the house reading a good book and the most of the PM was spent almost exclusively in my sisters company
conversing on interesting subjects.
Wed 22d Clear & Cold & rainy; spent the early part of the day in the sitting room reading.
Thurs 23d pleasant, Attended an auction of Chairs &c — PM sat in the house reading.
Fri 24th Cool & pleasant, wrote fine to Henry Stagg date 22d Jan last went to auction.

Sat 25th Cloudy. Sat about the house.
Sab 26 Cloudy heard Mr Allen, Mr —& in the night Mr __ 2 st Bts from Gal. Mon 27 Cloudy. Went to Auction, Sat about house. Sister & I walked out in PM. Tues Jan 28. 1840 — Thunder, lightning, Wind, & rain last night; the roof of the house leaked. this morning after Brkfst I walked about town, read the morning paper, went home and set about the house, read, wrote, &c. Cunni(?) ok(?) for some news from Father, or from my Baggage The weather has partially cleared up and the Cocks crowing is almost the only thing to break the silence. every thing else appears quite still (but I am not quite happy)
Wed 29th Pleasant, windy, but mild. After reading the morning chapter &c I walked out and read the morning news &c then sat at home reading Francis Berrian. Mr Carter paid us a visit.
Gonzales Wed Apr 15th 40 The out lots are 250 vs square there being a block to fence in, containing 4 lots each 250 vs square [diagram of four lots] Eight times 250 is the [----?] in vs = 2000 Now, the English yd. is 8 percent more than the Mexican Vara consequently here is the proportion — 108 English yd : 100 vs :: 100 : 92.5926 and 100 varas = 92.5926 yds. the amount of the length of rails when cut 10 ft long, 6535 rails for the whole 3 cts each = $196.05
Houston 1840
Fri Feb 1st [i.e. Jan 31st] 1840 Sister and I are desirous to be with Father but the difficulty of obtaining a conveyance is great, and by waiting a sort time our baggage may possibly come to hand before we leave this city. In the meantime Father may send a waggon and then we can be conveyed Bag & baggage —Sat 2d Sab 3d I accompanied Sister to church, and about noon Mr Larrabee arrived from Gonzales having been sent by Father to meet us as it was supposed we were on the road. Of course he did not bring a waggon. now our hopes for the present are overthrown; what shall we do. PM attended church as usual &c
 —The Messrs Carters called on us after church.
Mon 4th had a talk with the Messrs Carters who also wish to go to Gonzales but don't hope much.
Mon 4th Mr Camp & lady & Mr Flint have chartered a Barouche and are to start to day to Austin & I obtained a seat for Sister while Mr Larrabee & I ride the horse and walk alternately 
Tues 5 We came out to Canfields yesterday afternoon, to day to Mr Miskeles, horses tired &c
Wed 6 crossed the Brasos at S. Filipe, and went to the german settlement. rainy wet & cold
Thurs 7 came to Doughtereys about dinner time, wet & hungry house full of travelers
Fri 8 came to industry, Mr Alexanders called &c passed on through Cummins on Fri 8 to Mr Stevens where we were well entertained, some travelers, Judge Jones in the morning we leave our conveyance and Judge Jones assists us over to Gonzales
Sat 9 left Mr Stevens and Mr Flint Mr & Mrs Camp and came to Mr Evans house.

I

Sabbath 9 left Mr Brookfield and Mrs Evans and came to Mrs Sargents and Mr Moon
Monday 10 .. Mr & Mrs Morrows' and came to chaudoins & Mrs Woodwards Tues 11 .. Mrs Woodwards and came to Judge McClures
Wed 12 .. Mr McClures and came to Mrs Davis' at Gonzales
Thurs 13 .. are staying at Mr & Mrs Davis' visited Judge R & lady at their house Fri 14 We moved into our house to day. things are pretty rough
Sat 15
Sun 16th Spent the fore part of the day pleasantly. in the PM I rode to look for the map(?)
Mon 17 Tues 18 Wed 19 1 stay at home feel desirous to have things fixed &c Thurs 20 helped about the house a little in the early part of the day, in the evening I rode out with my gun but saw no game 
Fri 21 st Staid about home in the morning, and wandered out with my gun in the afternoon, shot at some wild geese. Was unsuccessful came home
Sat 22d I accompanied Mr Gibson in searching for cattle, rode out the Bastrop road nearly to Peach creek, a beautiful country, plenty of deer, brought home one work steer
[Page folded in the middle. Bottom part used first.]
Sabbath Feb. 23rd 1840 warm and cloudy weather threatening rain, alternate sunshine and cloudy — After brkfst I read in Romans; (sister & I being by ourselves — I am inclined to think that although I do not enjoy the comfort that is the Christians duty and privilege to enjoy, yet I have holiness and desire to be made more ardent in the fear if God. May he (who has prolonged my life to the present time breathe in me by his holy spirit. that my soul may live and I be his to his glory. A great many called on us this morning. Visiting on the sabbath is common.
Mon 23rd [i.e. 24th] Mr Gibson and Myself started early in search of a yoke of work steers that had strayed off. We went out the Bastrop road untill we came apparently to the brow of the ridge from which we had an extensive view of the country towards the Colorado and the knobs above & c. Thence we turned toward the east down to Peach creek and round through the post oak woods home. during the ride we saw vast herds of Deer and a great many cattle. We drove in a beef steer and he killed it
Tues 24th, Spent the fore part of the day in looking for the horses that had not been up this morning as I went over a good deal of the ground and on foot and returned unsuccessful — I was quite fatigued, however we soon after found them. In the afternoon I went down to the store and saw Messrs Morris & Crews
(who visited us last evening) start for San Antonio.
Wed 25th Father rode over to Mr Hodges before breakfast, and I went to town for the purpose of having the waggon that father has bot from Mr Kerr mended, and also to get a horse and buggy to bring some corn from Twentinson(?), all of which occupied the day.
Thurs. 26th Miss D spent the day at our house. Baker & myself cut 50 posts.

Fri 27th I accompanied Sister to the house of Judge R. & called in the afternoon for her.
Sat 29th Capt Caldwell & Ladycalled as they passed in the PM. I went to the Store & c.
Sab March 1st Last night there was a strong south wind and just after daybreak it commenced raining and was showery during the early part of the day and continued warm through the day & evening. It was really surprising to notice the grass & herbage & I consider the grazing really good now, during the day I read some and walked out. Mr Gibsons little Daughter commenced living with Sister & Mr G. supped with us 
Houston. Sab morn. March 15th 1840 mild damp atmosphere, still quiet reigns. I have just been thinking about the manner in which I used to spend my Sabbaths while in Cincinnati; how at San Antonio when I herded the horses, the bible my companion, how at Gonzales, and how I would like to enjoy the company of Father & Sister to day & c. How much I regret the loss of my journal while at San Antonio, and since that the loss of my book box (containing the books & scraps of my first collecting) that was left on the Caddos. I would like to have the favor of God, a competency of money, time, Books, & well informed good natured friends & c. — I want to transact my business at present in the best manner, be favored in getting all safe to Gonzales and when there to revel in the luxuries of the Society of Father & Sister, let me then so act as I shall best secure there esteem and Respect independent of the Love that they as relatives would have toward me — I accompanied the Messrs Carters to the Episcopal service both morn & PM. dined and supped at Miss Morgan's. in the evening I retired early 
Mon. 16th Loaded up and found that I should not be able to transport Mr Millers trunks & c. PM Dined at Miss Morgans and started Mr Osborn with the waggon. I followed on afterward, overtook him in the wood just beyond the racetrack we encamped at Canfields. supped at Mr Thomas' — price 4/8 in silver or $2.00 texas notes each = $4.00.
Tues 17th took a cup of coffee and started. the mare did not do well at first. came on up to Wheatons, bot beef $1.00 baked bread had some buttermilk. went on and shot a duck. encamped in the prarie on the road off from Caney Island made fire of dry dung, enjoyed ourselves quite well.
Sab March 29 '40. a fine morn, Mr Richd Carter who had arrived last night from Houston called on us and remained during the day and night. most of the day was spent in the house although we took a short walk in the afternoon. cold & windy.
Mon 30. Mr Sinnock who came recommended to us by Mr Carter commenced working for us this morning. he & myself worked on the picket fence. I carelessly let a hog (which Father had purchased $17. and received last night putting it in a pen), Father went in search of it and returned with it just at dinner time — Father has two men at work in the bottom cutting fencing materials and boards them at the house in town, his affairs vexed him to day and he appeared displeased with me & c. A lesson which I might learn from Mr C supped with us.
this circumstance is that should I have a family and my business go wrong I must not come and wreak my revenge on my family no matter even though they may

slightly culpable, for there is no better way of weaning their affection and respect from me & c.
Wed 31st expected frost last night but providence drove it away, felt grateful this morning when I found there was none. Mr S and I worked on the fence. Father came up and got the mare, seemed very kind. Mr C supped with us. After supper I went down to the store on an errand. After I returned home I wrote a little. I find
that all my time is occupied and I have but little time for books or devotions & c. All are busy
Wed Apr. 1st Wet, could not work much out doors. Mr Synnock fitted in some of the windows sash. We put up but five posts and 10 rails. Mr Carter dined and supped with us. Still wet & 
Thurs. 2nd still wet. continued working on the fence almost finished setting the posts and nailing on the rails for the fence on the W side.
Fri 3d Mr Synnock fitted in the other window sash and I drove down with Mr Conn for a load of palings for fence had some trouble with the horses. but with the assistance of Father and Conn I succeeded in bringing in load to the house. I afterward took a bed to Mr Davis house. in the afternoon acted the miller & c
April Sat 4th I took the horses and waggon and bot a load of palings in the afternoon two men came to work on the garden
Sab 5 After breakfast Sister and I took a walk out, after dinner there was some company at the house and I did not spend the day as agreeably as I might have done 
Mon 6th. Immediately after brkfst I took the waggon to bring some walnut plank from picks bridge, spent most of the day, assisted by Mr Henpins(?) & another all spent unprofitably am not as pleased as I thought to be & c
Tues 7th Father and I started very early to try the horses again in hauling the lumber. We put the mare in the lead and I rode her. but a the start the two wheel horses sprang past her and she being frightened reared back and fell upon me, the other two run upon us and one of them tramped upon my head. it was a moment of extreme peril but by the good providence of God I escaped slightly bruised in the body and head. it is a wonder that I was not killed. We still persisted in endeavoring to make the horses pull but did not succeed. Mrs Robinson permitted her boy to draw the boards waggon and all with a yoke of oxen. Mr Osborn came up afterward and harnessed the same horses and waggon and drove all about the place. Judge McClure and Mr Kincannon called on us. I worked no more but spent the day in Reading R L T	 could have employed better.
Wed 8 1 spent some of the time in house reading had the garden spot ploughed broken up had the little back gate made by Mr Synnocks
Thurs. 9 had the ground again cross plowed and the garden front fence [pruned(?)] Judge Hemphill and Mr Blow supped with us
Fri 10 Mr Synnock fixed the front gates & c Eli & myself ground corn it has been a very warm day and now threatens rain. the grass is excellent. Horses in general pretty fat. and mine do not stray

Sat April 11th 1840 1 discharged Mr Synnock dug up a bed and planted some beans (5 r & 70 in each) After tea Messrs Morris, Blow and Conle paid us a visit the evening quite sultry 
Sab 12 A cold norther is blowing and the weather wears a cloudy wintry aspect I think I spent the early part of the day more profitably than the last, Mr Synnock came back, Mrs DeWitt& Mrs Davis paid us a visit; Capt Caldwell and Lady; Mssrs Jones and Randall; Mr Gibson & Lady also. Weather cloudy and yet not so cold
Mon 13 After breakfast I rode over to Mr Hodges. Mr Lynn worked on the posts and holes for the partition fence, warm & cloudy. 
Tues 14.1 went to town to see some surveyors about surveying some land for me. met a couple of Ditchers who wanted work Warm & sultry cloudy. I made some bullets today. the hired man S fin. setting the posts and made the frame for gate. The evening warm and cloudy. I walked up to Conns for saw
Wed 15 1 went to town to grind but found that Capt C would be all the morning at the saw mill to grind. Mr Synnock commenced a bedstead to day. PM went to Trumbsons(?) for saw, while on the way I gathered two or 3 qts of as fine Blackberry as I ever saw and the first I have seen this season. very sultry today. walked down to town for sister who was assisting Md. Caldwell in making preparations for a Ball to be given in a few days. A wolf took one of our little pigs in broad day light in open sight. evening is pleasant.
Thurs 16 Heavy dew Father brot 2 Irish Laborers to work in the garden Sister and I went and gathered some moss for beds; a man with whom I got acquainted at a boarding house in Houston called on me; he was on his ay to St Antonio, and wanted his dinner. Mr S worked on the bedstead today. night windy 
Fri 17 Last night a fine rain fell and was very acceptable. This morning I commenced in the garden again being assisted by two laborers. We worked very hard all day. the wind blew this morning and a sudden gust capsized a large waiton(?) near some glass tumblers pitchers & c & c many of them fell and were broken. two ladies visited us to day. I broke a large bowl by my carelessness(?) & c accidents seldom come alone if unpleasant. Cloudy and sultry evening. 
Sat 18th I did not [ ---- ] today. cloudy & windy weather. I was assisted [ ---- ] by two Irish Laborers. worked in the garden [Mr] Synnock finished the bedstead at the close of the day. What [ ---- ] appointment was the Divine one of the Sabbath Sab 19th A fine rain fell last night and it continues sprinkling this day. not much air stirring, Sister & I walked out and picked some blackberries before tea. The day was not well spt.
Mon 20th A fine day. I set Mr Synnock at work on a safe. Father with the assistance of Mr Conn brot the rails & pickets. In the PM I with Mr Conn to bring posts & firewood & c.
Tues 21st feel stiff & lazy to day. there is to be a dinner & Ball at Capt. Caldwell's in commemoration of the Bat of S. Jacinto. Mr Synnock worked a part of yesterday and to day on the partition fence. PM I wrote to Henry Stagg. let dated 20. Mr McCollock & Capt Swift called to let me know they would start surveying
tomorrow afternoon I am preparing to go with them. 
Thurs 23 Mr Synnock finished 09 1/2 days work to day paid him $19.00

Thurs Apr 23 PM. I started on a surveying excursion in company with others, two of whom were footmen. we had four guns in the company. In the evening we made a camp on the Austin road on Mr Bell's tract of 6430 acres and about ten miles from Gonzales. One of the men killed with his hatchet a rabbit & a quail. he also found a nest of Wild Turkey eggs and shared them with me;. around the camp fire in the evening Songs, Stories, jokes, laughter & c no rain to night
Fri 24. Mr Stump who was one of our party went to kill a deer the others of us went to work at surveying leaving most of the horses & camp equipage at camp. I rode and acted the marker about noon the party that I was with (4 of us) came in to camp & ate a little dinner, after which we went to work again I rode the mule, but after we made one corner the mule left me; and I followed it back to camp where the hunter arrived at the same time. after catching my mule I tried to find the party again but although I rode a long way I did not succeed in finding them but returned to camp and assisted the man to prepare some food for the others PM Capt Caldwell and Mr Dykes two citizens of our town on their way to Austin stopped at our camp. and the night was spent pretty much as the last. I do not take much part in this
Sat 25 moved camp 3 miles farther out on the road on a piece of good land that I design for a third of a league survey, to day I assisted in making a survey of 3/4 of a league. it lies between the Iron Mountain and the San Marcos river and is pretty fair land 25th continued I felt quite gratified before I arrived at camp; fine musquit grass & c.
Sun 26 It appears to be necessary that we should work to day and I go along although I dislike very much to encroach on the hallowed day. a fine shower fell on us just about breakfast time. it incommoded us some. I made an additional cup of coffee apiece and we started in the evening we found the camp off the road and farther out.
Mon 27th We will nearly finish our work today. in running the lines I went over  [---?] high peakes of the iron mountains on one of them I ate fine blackberries. I had the pleasure for the first time in my life of joining the excitement of a Buffalo Chase in the evening we encamped farther back in the hills and spent the night agreeably the grass is good and the water plenty & cool try here
Tues 28th As we design to run but little more and then to return home two of our party started up towards plumb creek and the others of us finished our work and returned to Gonzales where I found Father & Sister well and glad to see me; &c
Tues May 5th Father has had two laborers making a kitch as I went for blackberries yesterday. I & Mr Larraher commence in good earnest to shingle the kitchen & c 
Wed 6th am working of the kitchen
Thurs 7 Father being about to start to Houston with some teams & c I am assisting him in preparing —
Fri 8th I drove down to the store and Father & Mr Larrabee with our waggon & c in company with 2 other gentlemen and teams & started for Houston after which I procured Mr Caldwells waggon & brot to the house the corn & c — PM paid A Swift 25.00 Dollars for surveying & c

Sat May 9th 1840 Endeavored to work well and finish roofing the kitchen, but did not succeed well, trifled some little
Sab 10th We were not molested by Company to day. Sister not quite well. I spent most of the day tolerably profitably and in the house 
Mon 11th Worked tolerably well; finished roofing one side. cannot proceed for want of material — Sister & I enjoy ourselves well
Tues 12. Arranged some papers I gave Dr Brown possession of the store last evening. Recd a letter from Dr Haenssler. brot up a shoat from town that had been kept about the store 
Wed 13 Court in town. I endeavored to collect money for father I brot up from the store some hens & chickens 
Thurs 14 Court, I procured a Black washerwoman to assist Sister yesterday a very hard rain last night went to town to collect money & c 
Fri 15th saw the new map of Gonzales, Entered some new land & sent the Certificates & applications to Chas. Lockhart County surveyor paid some of the expenses of my late surveying trip & c wrote to Dr Haenssler & sent the letter commenced the pig pen this afternoon. had a fine shower
 
Sat 16th I worked on the pen and put the hogs & c in it
Sab 17th A fine day. I went to Mr Zs pen and got the mare; she has been ranging about for the past week uncontrolled. PM I took a short ride — spent the day only tolerably profitably. hope may be able to improve my Sabbaths to better advantage in the future 
Mon 18th worked on the pen& near about completed it went to town in the afternoon —
1840 Tues May 19 Worked about a little — went for beef twice. very warm to day. Worked about the garden a little. night threatens rain
Wed 20th went to J Robinsons for Beef & to town & Davis's PM I cut branches for a booth and made one for swine worked a little in the garden warm roasting wars & c
Thurs 21st The swine number is all at present fiftysix. the flies are bad and some of them have worms in their eyes & c
Fri 22 — two ministers of the Gospel arrived in town & will preach to night, tomorrow, & on Sabbath, their names are Miller & Wilson. sister & Miss Q attended and found that there were many hearers 
Sat 23 Sister & I went to preaching to day. Mrs Caldwell kindly invited us to dine & sup at her house & we were away from home till in the night. there were many hearers although most of the men folks had gone to a horse race some distance from town
Sab 24th Attended with sister again three times to day Capt Caldwell has returned from Bexar, we staid at their house during intermissions there were many others there mostly young girls there was quite an excitement during the last sermon many were deeply affected & c 
Mon 25 Very sore ankles I did not work much to day Revd. Mr Wilson & two other gentlemen called this after

Sab June 14th 1840. 1 have been slightly ill for the last two weeks; during which time Mr Johnson and his Son a lad of about 16 years of age & who came from Houston with Father have made our house their home. they left for the city of Bexar last evening — Nothing of much moment has occurred with us since my last note. There has been a sensation of Melancholy pervading my mind for some time. I feel discontented & unhappy I am well aware that if I had lived up to my profession that I would at least enjoy peace of mind & c — There has been abundance of rain for the last four or five days and the crops look fine. I expect the corn will be larger and better than ever it has been before — I do not know what I had better do whether to be a Farmer or what I am now in my 22d year and am still more childish than when in my 19th dependent on my own exertions for a maintenance both for sister & myself; What should I do?
Sab 21st Rain! Rain!! Rain!!! I think it has rained every day the past week. a great deal of has fallen indeed, father is confined constantly at his store and does not leave it often in the early part of the week I hauled some boards for weatherboarding and shingling to the store and to the dwelling. I borrowed a Lady Saddle for Sisters use. Miss Morrison paid her a visit remained two or three days. So rainy could not ride out much a part of Fri & Sat I worked on the kitchen & c. to day I sat in doors and read & c most of the time excepting an hour or two that was spent in riding with Sister. I think that if I could live up to my religious privileges I could be quite happy here there was no preaching today nor is there any permanent arrangement for supplying this community with a preached Gospel — Some three or four of the citizens on the river lands below this town was killed when returning from San Antonio a few days since
Gonzales Sab June 28th 1840 During the past week there has been some warlike news afloat. A party of citizens: neighbors & friends to those unfortunate men who in returning from the San Antonio were killed by the Comanches excepting a lad who was taken prisoner and afterwards escaped. started out to find and bury their remains— Mr E Mitchell, citizen of this town, who with his and other waggons went to Bexar with Mr Johnson & Son has returned and brings the sad intelligence that Judge Cambell of Seguin who was one of the party was killed by the Indians on the day after their arrival in Bexar while bringing up his horse from the pastures — An order emanating from Geo. W. Hockley Sec. of War was received some time since, commanding the Militia of the three adjoining counties with those of this county to assemble at this town. it is expected that Genl. Felix Hueston [sic] will in a few days make his appearance and at that time the forces will assemble. Sister has been ill the last two days and the weather is hot. I do not know why it is, but there is a habitual discontent pervading my mind; also, an effeminate inactive disposition manifesting itself in me;. What remedy shall I apply? — In my situation it seems almost impossible to live a life of Faith & Holiness; and I believe that were I living such a life I should have no occasion to be so constantly complaining. — Father's principal time and attention is occupied at the store, where he also has need of my services with my pencil a portion of each day. Consequently I am unable to do much work about home. During the past week I weather boarded the front & two sides of the kitchen and roofed one half of the cover finishing the roof & c — Mr Miller of the Board of Trustees of

Education for Gonzales notified me; of my appointment to a membership in sd. Board. however they are doing nothing toward the great work & I fear that it's a mere nominal affair & c. Frequently in thinking of bygone times at Tumbusons(?), I feel quite well toady but rather lazy, Mr L Abbotts from Houston called on us last evening, brot a letter from Rich Carter, — This climate certainly has an effeminating over me; I have not been industrious during the last week—nor do I feel as enterprising as I used to do with regard to acquiring Religious knowledge. Sab. July 12 Had some serious desires last evening for holiness of life & c. spent the early part of today tolerably well, but am very careless and indolent about these important considerations & in every thing.
Sab. July 19. 1 am aware that I am very careless & negligent & have times I feel desirous of stemming this flood of evil but do not lay hold lustily enough to improve any —
Aug The Burning of Linnville & B [i.e. Battle] at Plum creek Lar [i.e. Larrabee] & s planted corn
1841 S F(?) Crop	?I
Lar & s
1842 Bollinger rental I came to Val March Wagging Sept Wah 1843 1 cam back to plant corn
[31 through 34 are a single folded sheet]
1843. Feb 6. Monday—Election for Sherrill at Gonzales. Father started for the seat of Govt. Mr Shaw agrees to assist me; in removing to my piece of land where I worked last summer & where I made a field of twelve acres and a Snug Log Cabin the recent flood in the Guadeloupe has taken off my fence but some of the rails have lodged and can be recovered
7th & 8th spent in preparing for the journey &c, procured some trees.
9th took an early start, but upon arriving at the river was disappointed about procuring a waggon to convey my things, concluded to cross my own waggon although I knew it would be trouble
10th took an early start S assisting me;. crossed the waggon, oxen and load, and proceeded 5 or 6 miles and encamped at Mr Hinds
11th Drove on to M Millers where we ground our meal and staid to Dinner, after which we came on to my house—I walked some & did very well this day—Sun. 12th How pleasant the thought that I am at Home! Mr S is quite handy and useful.
Mon 13th S & myself worked hard ploughing and preparing the ground for a garden. I went to Davis' and got 1/2 bushel of sweet Potatoes for seed. they owed me; 2.50. the potatoes cost .50, leaving = $2.00
14th weather so cold that neither of us worked
15th I plowed & harrowed & c I worked but a little being overcome by the cold quite soon.
16th I Furrowed of some Corn ground of 2 or 3 acres. I walked pretty well.

Fri Feb. 17th I hauled some rails & went to Camels(?) for a bushel of Sweet Potatoes for seed agreeing to pay him in corn- P. an /8 C a 5/ 1 worked well – 18th S. harrowed the garden pond and planted some I worked in the timber drift cutting away for a fence & c. well
Sabbath 19th pleasant –
20th I took an early start for Gonzales with my oxen & waggon, arrive at night. Father rendered me; every assistance in getting an early start from Dewitts with a load of corn – I came to Millers and staid over night.
22d went to Davis with a yoke of oxen for a couple of young steers.
23 hunted
24th Davis hunted for them & I worked for Davis proved the oxen & Drove home Sat 25th S & I con breaking up our corn ground, worked well
Sabbath 26th I felt grateful for the blessings by which I am surrounded and paid some attention to Religious duties
27th Mon. S & myself ploughed all day
28th Ploughed &c &c
Wed. Mar. 1st Very Cold. We could work but 1/6 day ploughed
2d still extremely Cold. We ploughed 5/6 of a day. S does well
3 fin. ploughing at noon. Harrowed the other 1/2 day. I planted seeds 4th I harrowed all Day. S was unwell in AM. PM he grubbed
Sabbath 5th cloudy. Staid about house all day. Read some.
6th Mon. I fin. harrowing at M. in PM S & I tried to furrow, but Rain
7th S furrowed all Day though the ground is quite wet. I hauled Rails & c. to night I see a rem. app in the SW. Resembling a ray when the clouds or moving water [its?] a bright moonlight night
Mar. 8th Wed. I fin. laying off. S planted all day I assisting during the latter part of the day. the ground being well harrowed was in fine order for planting only rather wet. It does not furrow so well either as it did before the rain – Weather to Day damp & cloudy. ground dried but little –
9th S & myself planted corn all day. the game is quite plenty there are ducks in abundance in the ponds in the Bottom. I have killed several fine Turkies. this morning at daylight I shot 3 times at turkies but killed none. as I came near the house I saw 2 Deer and killed one of them. it proved to be very good – we have some Bacon & Lard to cook
with our wild game, and the prarie yields us plenty of wild onions, but they are small – to night I see again a regular streak or ray in the SW part. I think it is a Comet 
Fri 10th cold & wet no work done in field to day. S is unwell having tried to plant corn this morn. in the rain I hauled rails in the Afternoon. In AM I repaired the plough
Sat. Mar. 11th S & I com. early and fin. planting our corn. the rem. of eve I worked at handling the prarie plough. – comet in the evening for an hour
Sabbath 12th cold and windy. how pleasant it is here at the house & comfortable fire with good books & sit by on the day of Rest! – evening clear and cold. the comet appears to night for an hour or 2

Mon 13th cold and slight frost which will be hard on my early garden as I have planted nearly all my garden seeds and have had corn come up nearly one week and beans up 2 or 3 days. I unyoked all the cattle on Sat night that they might better enjoy a day of Rest and as I have no pen the gr. part of this AM was consumed in yoking them — I put handles on the prarie plough. S. broke out the baulks in the early corn grd.
Tues 14th We corn. breaking prarie worked all day. Plough quite dull ground too dry. oxen not strong enough 
Wed. corn. work again early warm & pleasant till about 10 o clk when a sudden tempest came from the north with Rain we turned out the team and worked no more today as the storm continues. at night clear, cold, & windy comet seen —Thurs. ground frozen this morning so that we could [--] was quite high, much injury to vegetation. I killed a large gobbler this morning but did not get him. he fell into the river and the current carried him off while I was preparing to kill another. We ploughed a little this AM. heard cannon about noon apparently at Gonzales. PM we ploughed. deer feeding within 150 yds of us and remained 1/2 an hour in close vicinity comet seen faintly tonight.
Fri 17th frost. cold wind with the sun continues through the day, very cold, ploughed most of the day night cloudy. no comet seen, no wind, but cold & frosty. Sat 18th frost we finished ploughing our first land at noon [blank] acres PM began another but my youngest steer being a stag took a sulky fit and we could not make him work, spent the rem. in doing little jobs about the place — night clear, comet all visible
Sab 19th Pleasant, all nature seems to keep the sabbath to day sat in house and read, walked around the garden, looked after the cat
Mon 20. cool — (killed a turkey early this morning) Some ones horse came in the night. I took him and went to Millers to return his plough and to grind corn. I cleared up some brush on the remaining land between the rails and ploughed ground. PM S Returned with the meal we ploughed a head land between the garden and River clear through and laid off our last piece of prarie to break. just as we were quitting work there was an arrival of 2 Boats from the San Marcus loaded with pecans & corn Eggory & Lynch's boat had 500 Bushels of pecans she is I think 30 by 10 ft. 35 x 12 is recommended as full sized boat for the river. they ran about 3 days although they started at the firing of the cannon I mentioned last thursday. they are doubtless the first Boats ever seen going down the Guadaloup with frt.}
Tues 21st we ploughed 10 rounds. Buck was so tired we quit early
Wed 22d warm & pleasant. we ploughed 3 rounds and the oxen seemed so weak we quit — PM S & me; planted more seeds — I cut roads through the thickets for the purpose of recovering my drifted rails
Thurs 23 comet last night and a cold norther that lasts gr part of to day we ploughed 10 rounds and Buck gave out and laid down We could not make him rise and had to leave him laying. We have worked the oxen too hard and constant for young oxen. to night it is not so cold and windy, but cloudy Fri drizzling rain no work done out doors to day I sewed and mended my old clothes. sun set clear

Sat 25 Rose early and shot a large fat gobbler, heaviest frost, and after sunrise the thickest fog that I have observed this winter. My beans & corn & other vegetable stuff that had not come p before the last freeze were cut down last night this has been a cold moon – we ploughed 7 rounds & then hauled rails –made a poor show this week at	too weak to do much in a day and [----]
[lower portion of page missing.
I had concluded to go and make a crop at my Piece of Land and was very anxious to get some suitable man to assist me;. – had spoken to Mr Shaw who is staying at our house assisting Father in repairing the fence around Sisters field –I offered him 1/2 of the crop if he would crop with me;: I furnishing every thing except clothing worksh[ ---- ?] & c– he said he was unable to do steady hard work and had an aversion to hiring to any man – "well (said 1) if you will go along I will give you the use of (6) acres of old land and you furnish yourself and work when you please" he replied I do not know, I will be able to tell better in a day or two – I think the above is the amount of the conversation that passed upon this subject –in a day or two he told me; he would assist me; in moving down – and finally he made his arrangements to stay a while with me; but has never said anything further upon the subject – Mr G [i.e. S] commenced with me; on Thurs. 9th Feb.
1842 [i.e. 1843] – on the 10th we crossed the River – 11th came home, and from that time until this (evening of 8th of March) he has been quite useful. trusty and industrious, he is not hardy but lost a few hours by slight, Temp, pains, etc. I can find not fault [ ---- ] as well. I will [ ---- ]
[Lower portion of page missing, but text ends before missing part]
Mar 9th S & I worked all at planting.
10th cold in AM neither of us worked, Shaw was unwell in PM didn't work. I did. Mar 24th S has done quite well thus far 
Apr 31st [sic] Well thus far.
Mr Shaw has done well enough up to the time of the death of my Father, since which he takes but little interest in my welfare and is quite unaccommodating Sept 24th.
Monday 20th Nov. Shaw and Haines left (Haines had been picking) We have picked out as follows Haines 3550 Shaw & 12000 = 5550 lbs I have been unwell during most of the picking season and when able was engaged constantly either in providing food or in gathering corn or in like manner. I judge we raised about 500 bushells of corn but some was destroyed for want of a substantial fence – I think I have done tolerably well by Mr Shaw, having allowed him one half of the crop and furnishing every thing but toward the latter part of the season he was very cross and unaccomodating. I would not like to hire another season in the same manner as during the last –
[note -- 37-40 are a single folded sheet]

West Guadaloup Fri 29th Apr. 43 [i.e. 28th] I fin ploughing round the corn by M. S. & I fin hoeing by 4 o ck PM. the corn looks well and grows finely except that new piece 
30th [i.e. 29th] I went to M. Millers to grind. I laid up fence & made Rails
Sabbath Apr. 31st. [i.e. 30th] cold but pleasant. still with gentle zephyrs stirring. nature seems to be at quiet rest. Birds singing and squirrels capering in the trees. I read, pray, meditate, & c. A New Moon appears to night. Weather clear dry and cool.
Monday May 1st. I was slightly indisposed in the night and do not feel able to work to day. I went to Mrs Davis' on an errand for S and myself S commenced harrowing and scraping the cotton this morning there are [ ---- ]
Tues. searched a considerable time for the oxen. harrowed until noon. set the
 [--‑
-] evening and caught 3 fine fish which were quite acceptable to us to	I went to making Rails in the Bottom. do not feel well and stout.
Sabbath May 7th. during the last four days S has been engaged with the [----] and I with the cutting and hauling Rails. I have made but a bad week. S has worked over [ ---- ] Rows of Cotton besides hoeing for an hour or two and the Deer have eaten down our sweet potato vines after which we placed scare crows to prevent them. No Rain, generally heavy dews, ground quite dry, corn looks flourishing however but needs rain. on the fourth day the moon was slightly cloudy about the middle but I think 'twill be a dry moon. to day cool, cloudy and windy. I do not feel exactly contented or satisfied but need a little [ ---- ] Evening about Evening about nine o clk a fine rain set in accompanied with thunder & lighting It comes from the S.W. and continues at intervals through the night, quite acceptable.
Monday 8th. S & myself arose early and set out a great many sw. pot. slips completing the planting of two long rows. our supply was limited owing to their having been eaten down by the Deer a few days since. PM. S complains of Rheumatism and works now this afternoon. I repaired the stouter plough, cleaned up my Rifle and went out trying to kill a Deer. returned after Dark unsuccessful. S reports much damage done to the sw. pot. to day by some animal Several Rods of the potato Rows are demolished by some Hogs notwithstanding the scarecrow.
Tues 9th. S hoed 4 Rows + of cotton. I fin harrowing the cotton for him and ploughed 3 Rows of corn. PM I went to Davis for S shirt. Repaid the salt I borrowed (on the 6th Apr.) I borrowed [ ---- ] good split percussion caps. on my return I plowed 8 rows of corn. There are 88 Rows. The Rain came in the nick of Time for me; as I had designed working the corn this week the ground is well moistened and in good order, but during the dry weather [ ---- ] molested my fine young pumkin vines, which I regret as I have no more seed.
Wed 10th. conversing with Mr Davis yesterday he said that during a number of years he noticed that there was invariably a 'dry spell' lasting about 4 or 5 weeks in the spring here and if corn is not planted quite early it is better to defer planting till this spell is about over. it generally is in latter part of Mar or 1st of Apr. this season it was in Apr. and May. About the first week in March is a good time to plant corn, and the 1st wk. in Ap. for cotton although Mr Davis is not an advocate

for planting cotton so soon. He said he has had cotton seed to lie in the ground till May or June and still make good cotton. that it is injurious to plough corn during a drouth. Michael Miller says sowing old saying are these. When Red Haws hit all must [ ---- ] When rain on 21 st or 22d of May the oak meat
fails, When on 15 or 16 June the pecan [ ---- ]
Wed. continued. Is the Soil and Climate of the Guadaloupe such as will suit wheat? I am told that generally when grain is sown it is in the following proportion. Wheat one Bushell per acre, Buckwheat 4 quarts per acre, Rye one Bushell per a, oats 1-1/2 Bushells per Acre – weather to day is cloudy, windy from SE / and cool. I had the ill fortune to break the false coulter to the plough spent the gr part of this AM in repairing it and taking care of some fresh meat. PM I ploughed 17 Rows. S fin scraping cotton replanted some. Hogs somewhat troublesome
Thurs 11th cool cloudy SE wind I ploughed 13 Rows S fin replanting cotton seed and sowed some in garden corn – PM I laid up fence I planted pecan in corner Fri 12 1 ploughed 28 Rows of Corn to day. I worked among the corn, suckering(?) it & c.
Sat 13 1 fin. ploughing late in PM. I also hauled rails and completed the fence (5 ft height) to the back except a few Rods. S has busied himself among the corn & vines. He planted 6(?) Rows of corn 5 feet apart I laying it off for him. We have had a strong SE wind for several days and cloudy weather but warm, growing.
Sabbath 14th Wind quite high during the night. small shower this morning and warm, damp day. a lot of Hogs came out of the field having committed considerable harm. I think that we have lost one half of our seed potatos by Hogs. I considered it my duty to lay up the fence I left unfinished so as to prevent them from coming in to night. It took me; about 3 hours. S rendered me; no assistance whatever I did not ask but think he might have helped without asking. made but little progress in Religion to day but desire to be among Gods People
Monday 15 We hoed up the potato rows that the Hogs have damaged, suckered the corn, worked in the cotton, cut a tree at the water fence to keep the Hogs from swimming up, both pretty busy, the day clear, sultry, still, quite hot. I shot at Deer and missed.
Tues 16 1 spent most of the day searching for the oxen and did not find them. weather threatening Rain. I hoed an hour or two among the cotton and the balance of the day we worked about the garden, sweet potatoes & c. Warm, a slight shower, cloudy.
Wed 17 Rain at intervals through the day quite steady in the latter part. I found the Oxen and we spent some time in catching Buck to hobble him having no fence. We fin setting out potato slips in all the ground that is ready for them. S says that one hundred bushels would be a fair crop from what we have now planted.
Thurs 18 Rainy through the last night and with the sunrise this morning, clearing up to day. S scraped cotton through the day. I assisted him in AM. PM I harrowed quit work before sun set and went out and killed a deer, clear & still.

Fri 19. Warm but cloudy. I fin. harrowing the cotton in the AM; am used to hoe. PM S scraped cotton all day. the ground is full of the roots of a little vine. Sat S. do. do. do. I scraped in AM in PM I went to Sheffields & Davis'
Sabbath 21st clear and hot. thunder shower in the Afternoon I read some but made little progress
Mon 22d clear and hot, cotton grows well, we both scraped cotton to day (6 Rows) Tues 23 do. do. with light breezes from S, We set in to hoeing over the corn
Wed 24 commencing next the potatoes and hoed 40 Rows across the field, the corn is too high to be ploughed with an ox, and I have no other way of working it but by the hoe. I ought to have plowed and laid it by last week. It has not yet begun to tassel. It looks quite stout and thrifty and if there should be plenty of Rain at the right time I think it would yield a large crop.
Thurs, Fri & Sat. Weather hot, quite so. We hoed over the corn. Cutting out the weeds &c. untill 11 o clk I broke my hoe. S fin the corn while I went up to the [ ---- ] to have my hoe mended and to grind some meal. Mr Kent mended my hoe on a credit, treated me; quite kindly at his house, gave me; some peas to bring home & c. quite kindly, Miller lent me; 4 mills full of corn to grind
Sabbath May 28th. I am detained at Mr Kents on account of my hoe longer than I would wish to day. Mr Kent, Mr Miller and his family are all very obliging and kind. I came home about 3 1/2 o'clk PM, read and meditated a little, do not like to trespass on the Lords Day but was almost compelled by circumstances in this case. showery afternoon. and a good steady rain set in moderately at dark, thus the Lord seems to smile upon the efforts of the husbandman for we have had a good season thus far since spring fairly opened. Rain ceased at bed time.
Mon. 29th. We ploughed the last remaining patch of the ground reserved for the Sw. potatoes I plowed and harrowed among the cotton. I hoed some in garden, and cotton. We also finished hoeing out the corn after I broke my hoe on Sat last. So our corn is considered 'laid by'. Quite cold nights now since the last rain.
Tues. I ploughed untill noon. I worked with the hoe all day. PM I went to Davis' with a deer, got my rice bowl full of Butter, S, Abbot(?), Mr D. agreed to mend my shoes. I saw a man at Mr Camels with my Horse sent me; by my Father who also sent me; a mess of snap beans with a request to come and see him this week. I loaned Mr D some paper, and Mrs D some books, and returned home. Got my shoes and carried them to Mr Davis to be mended. Mr Kent & son visited us
Wed 31st. The Messrs Kent left before brkfst to try and kill a deer. S and I ploughed and hoed 10 Rows of cotton, which occupied the day. Wet days and cold nights.
Thurs. June 1st. We ploughed and hoe cotton, hot at noon
 
Fri 2 1 went to Davis's and got my shoes, also went to Mr Norths. PM I drove up to Kents.
Sat. started at daylight and drove to Gonzales. left my oxen with Clinton Dewitt Sabbath 4th Oxen were at Fathers. Capt. Hays and Friend were at Fathers. I got some corn at Mrs DeWitts where I staid all night. a slight shower, with thunder, & lightning.
Tues 6th. I drove home. had been a good rain, ground quite wet.

Wed & Thurs. We made a pole pen for hogs and cows and went to Kents. Mr Shaw borrowed Millers horse and we rode to Gonzales by moonlight. spent most of the time untill Tuesday morning in collecting and trying to cross my hogs over the River. I went down home to see about it
Wed 14th Mr Tinney assisted me; with my swine. we came to Burkitts.
Thurs 15. We came on Breakfasted at Mr More's. cooped my hogs at Camels, had considerable help. PM I took the hogs home myself having loaned Mr Tinney my horse to ride to Victoria and back I left the gray mare with Mr Davis' horses, having to ride again to Gonzales.
Fri 16 Arose early and went to Davis' on foot searched a while for the horses got the mare and rode to Gonzales taking with me; an old scythe to Mr Van Derliss I had borrowed a long time previously but retd
— I Rec'd a communication from my correspondent B. G. and answered it
 
Sat. June 17th. Father got early brkfst and assisted me; to Drive my Sisters cow and calf as far as the ford of Guadaloupe on my way home with them I dined at Mr Hinds and stopped over night at Z Davis' to
Sun 18th started at daylight and took breakfast at Kents. drove on home in AM Monday 19th I hunted for the oxen and found the young ones with W Davis' cattle borrowed a yoke and yoked them up and drove to Kents where I stopped over night in AM 20th I started in search of my cow and yearling that has been running with cattle in this range for some time past. did not find her. drove my yoke of oxen home.
Wed 21st untill Sat 24th incl. We ploughed and hoed cotton using a plough of Davis' Sabbath 22d [i.e. 25th] in morning I staid in house and read a little. Messrs Miller & Hill pd us a visit spending most of the day with us, and on my part it was not Religiously improved. I was so glad to have them come that I did not respect the day as I ought or honor it and its Master as I ought
Mon 26 yesterday and to day considerable rain fell. PM we cons. moving the cabin up to the post oaks. Isaac Kent called and staid all night
Tues 27 AM fin hauling and laid up a few logs high. PM we fin laying p and put on a few courses of boards. slept under them.
Wed 28 1 fin. putting on the roof. PM I went p to Mr Browns with a yoke of oxen to bring away my cow and calf. staid overnight
Thurs. 29 started at daylight and drove home early. Worked on a door
Fri 30th fin' the door to my cabin. PM Shaw went to Gonzales riding my horse, new moon last night, cloudy and threatening rain 
Sat 1st I walked a long way hunting the oxen. found them and hauled five waggon loads of earth to the cabin for floor & c.
Sabbath 2d all alone today and in a tolerable frame of mind. Rain in PM heavy. Mon 3d hauled a load of earth for under the shed, a load of Rock and some poles to build my chimney. made the floors & c.
Tue 4th kept holliday dined at G W Davis, showery weather
Wed. 5th Shaw returned before breakfast. laid abed all day except at supper he milked and baked bread. I shot at a doe and missed. Very heavy Rain with thunder & lighting. excessive Rain here corn remarkable large & heavy / 2 or 3 ears on a stalk. cotton fine but rather too much rain for it. on the 4th day of the

moon she was pale and unsullied and stood on the S horn considerably. a very heavy rain PM, hot cloudy, no breeze at night.
Thurs 6th Shaw did nothing all this day except milk for Morning and assist a little towards supper. undertook to help me; daub the house a little in PM but did not work two hours.
West Guadaloupe Fri July 7th '43.1 with Shaves aid in loading hauled a load of Rock, after which I built up the fire places to my house, laying a good rock hearth and spending the day doing such kind of work except an hour or so when at noon Shaw having gone to Millers to borrow an axe for himself I carried a letter to Mr Davis to be sent to my Father, Rain 
July 8th Sat. worked diligently at the chimney in AM. PM Rain. I also assisted S in getting a piece of timber to make him a trough. Shaw renders me; no aid I [----] this week.
Sabbath 9th. Cleaned up house & c, spent most of the time in reading Hymns, scripture & c & c wrote to Sister and her husband looked at [ ---- ]
Mon 10th Succeeded by diligent labor unaided by Shaw in finishing the west end(?) of the house including the chimney; Rain at dusk.
Tues 11th Rainy in AM I cut chinking pieces and placed them in the east end of the cabin where I also cut a windows hole, occupied the day
Wed. 12.1 went above to see about Hogs, returned having ground some meal, and Mrs Kent sent by [ --- ?] some shalots. I plastered up the east end (facing the windows also) and chinked the north side, spent the day alone and busy Thurs. 13. As Soon as I arose I com. plastering the North Side and fin. the outside before brkfst. Shaw milked and got brkfst. after which we com. work upon a Hog pen for the present use of Mr Shaw, one had up poles being cut I was teamster and I did the chopping. we made six loads in the AM & six in the PM averaging about 12 per load
Fri 14. Arose before dawn and killed a doe in the edge of the cotton patch, started with some of it to Davis's could not cross the river canoe being gone, returned. I had an excellent Brkfst, Rainy AM, I took care of the meat, I worked about house plastering some of inside of N Side. PM we made up S hog-pen, 20 pounds, highth 6 or 7
Sat 15. S in AM went above and brot the cross cut saw from Kents I looked about for Board trees and crib poles in PM. We cut an elm tree and sawed on cut off, sowed a little turnip seed, Very hot. I took medicine
Sun 16.1 arose and ate a hearty breakfast. Was taken in – well before noon – I made me; some ash bark tea 
Mon. Miller came down for some Castor Oil, very sickly about the neighborhood – I do no more work. S knocks along somehow.
Tues 18th he went home with K Davis and on to town, procured me; a dose of Calomel some salts, and a chicken which he gave me;, I am sick this week Fri felt better
July Sat 22d Hearing that My Father is sick I started to go see him thinking to travel along by easy stages for I am quite weak and Feverish rode to Kents and stopped a few minutes. 2 or 3 of the Family sick, went on to Millers saw several

of the young men of the neighborhood. Hill told me; I would not see my Father as he was Dead, news that I had no expectation of hearing. I borrowed Miller's hat and went on to Z Davis where I staid over night. Saw Mrs Baker.
Sab 23d started on up to Mr Hinds where I staid until late in PM. Much sickness in Family. Dr Brown there sick. I went on to town to the 'old place' and found Mr Grinag's Family occupying the premises. they had removed there on Mon 17th the day that Father was taken sick. He was attacked with violent vomiting which continued until) Death closed his sufferings on the morning of Fri 21st, having had no operations on the Bowels although he had medicine and kind attention. Mr C B Ackland attended to him and waited upon him as a son which places me; under lasting obligations to him all of the neighbors were kind Judge Williams particularly so. Owing to the inflammation of the intestines and consequent mortification of the Body it was necessary that my poor father should be buried immediately he was accordingly interred that evening, his grave clothes being furnished by Judge Williams. Ackland and others made the coffin and Mr Grinage' Negroes dug the grave. all of which was done without any charge as far as I can learn 
Aug Sabbath 13th I returned home last evening from Gonzales where I have been engaged with a little business and a good deal of sickness since Fathers Death I have been at home once before during this time. I have been quite sick and being almost compelled to ride about some and attend to things I have been thus kept down from getting well, I had the Govt property put in the charge of a man who is to transport it to La Grange — I have also administered upon my Fathers estate, Messrs Patrick & Harris being my securities to the amount of $5000. — I have written to Sister & her Husband and expect an answer shortly
 —Mr Grinage will occupy the 'old place' for the present
13th Aug. Contin. Being quite hungry for some kind of Soup I took my gun early this morning and killed a couple of young turkeys and a most excellent soup but ate too much of it. Mr Shaw not at home
Mon 14th Two of my sows have had a fine litter of pigs each during my absence and they requires some attention. I generally feed them early in the AM and milk the cow quite soon also. I have Fever this morn. Miller and Shaw came down about 11 o'clk and took a walk through the field. they killed a Fawn and ten squirrels and Mr Shaw got a most excellent dinner but I was not able to eat much. we had some sw. potatoes &c. Miller returned home in the evening
Sat 19th I gained but little strength and have nothing except haul up four bundles of corn for the Hogs and go to Mr Hinds for the horses that have strayed off there. I have also sewed a little and this afternoon I went off to Davis' and got a new hat $2.50 two hens 50 and some tomatoes — stopped at Camels he was quite friendly I loaned him one morning this week two yoke of oxen 
Sab. 20th warm, smoky day. Mr Shaw killed two turkeys I Read and meditated and rested this day. fend my pigs 3 times [ ---- ?]
Mon 21st I now do the milking and yoke the oxen if they are to be used, feed my swine, water the Horses & c. We ploughed for a turnip patch intending to sow the seed in PM. in heat of the day we shelled out some of our Peas for seed and as it

threatened rain we did not venture to the field, but worked at the Peas through the PM.
22d We sowed the TURNIP seed and gathered a box of corn — some New Eng. rules — a thimble full of turnip seed per square rod, sowed on the 25 July generally. Dog Days commence on that date and close on the 4th of Sept. if they set in wet, dry close (and vice versa). A Hogs Under Jaw or joie bone contains a large quantity of marrow which is almost invaluable about the for sores on feet risings, a torn or nail in the foot &c. hang up the jaw and break and use as you have occasion. Irish potatoes the best ting to draw out fire on inflammation. In PM we did foundation and floor for a corn crib
Wed 23rd We cut and hauled logs for corn crib all AM. weak & tired. in PM we laid up foundation for additional crib & c.
Thurs 24. S started for a hog trade. I made a pig stye; PM I picked Peas & c. thrashed out peas. kept quite busy attending to little things
Fri. 25.1 hauled logs around for the crib. picked Peas. PM got quite(?) picking peas, a fine rain for our fresh sown turnip patch
Sat 26 more rain this morning I busied myself washing and sewing. PM I went to meet S with his hogs and to grind meal. went to Kents and Millers. S had got no hogs. he and Hill came home with me;
Augst 27th Sab. A Still, sultry morning. Hill killed a turkey. excellent eating to day. Bacon, Turkey, Bread, Potatoes, Beans, Peas, green corn. I am quite busy with such things but would enjoy myself much better with a crust of bread with a crisitan to talk to. A Black man came with a Basket for me;. Letter from Pilgrim
Mon 28th Hill went a hunting. I went to see Miller about coming to work a day or two on my cribs for me;. Shaw & I cut and hauled more poles from the Bottom until) noon of Tues 29th [marking out Wed. 30th] when a man named Haynes came to see Mr Shaw and stay a few days. Hill has been hunting.
Wed 30 [marking out Thurs 31st] I con. building my corn crib with assistance of Hill. Shaw (show'd no sava!) with Haynes rendered a little aid in lifting. it rained at intervals through the day and I am not strong yet so that we did but little. Mr Hill has agreed to help me; thro.
Thurs 31st [marking out Fri Sept. 1st] Hill and I after got a lift with 4 of the logs for a time worked at it but about 3 o'clk Hill complained of being tired and we left off the balance of the day. I spent at picking Peas &c. & c.
Fri 2 Hill weak in back. I cut more poles. Hill rested and laid by
Sat 3 Shaw & H picked cotton yesterday. this morn. S helped me; to cut timber I hauled it out to day and quit work early quite tired. 
Sab. 4th. felt tired and as though I could enjoy a Sab. of Rest, but the is crowded and up side down and I got no time to set down till after [----?]
Mon 5th H picked cotton, S sat about, I hauled out some more logs. Mr Davis sent for a horse for his Carpenter to ride about. Mr Hill and I rode with him as far as Kents I ground corn at Millers and in consequence of rain I staid all night Tues 6th I came to Kents for breakfast, and borrowed his large saw, came home and went over to G W Davis to get a man to help me; 2 days Recd a letter by Mr Camel from Mr Pilgrim. S did nothing. H picked 24 lbs of cotton. I spent bal of day making an ax handle

Wed 7th Mr Fitzsimmons a Carpenter from G W Davis came to help me; erect my corn cribs. Heavy, Slow work and to a disadvantage
Thurs 8th Rainy cold weather.
Fri 9th Rainy wet time lost
Sat 10th still working untill after middle of PM when he went away, worked in all no more than 3 days. Haynes helped lift
Sun 11 had a good day for improvement and worship. Rain.
Mon 12 Shaw went to grind. H picked untill 11 o'clk PM. Rain in PM we killed a hog. smooth cross of left and upper bit in [ ---- ?]
Tues 13 Very hot in AM Haynes helped me; 1-1/2 hours so hot they picked but 9 or 10 lbs of cotton apiece. Mr Fitzsimmons came over
Web Mr F-S helped my put up the ribs on my corn crib and worked well all day
3 days. I detained Haynes and Shaw in AM and an hour + in PM. they however picked no cotton‑
Thurs 15. Miller came down to help me; make boards, sawed off two cuts from the tree & quit
Sept. Fri 18th '43. Haynes assisted for an hour in sawing two cuts in the Board tree a fine tree that we fond yesterday but did not finish sawing. I cut a Road to haul out the timber in PM I gathered corn and was busy about the field and the Hogs & c. Shaw started for Gonzales last night with Miller
Sat. 19th I yoked the oxen and hauled a box of corn for the hogs. Mr W W T Smith stopped as he journeyed towards Victoria I hauled a load of board bolts out from the bottom Shaw returned, horses ear very sore, my cow had a he calf Sab. 20th a lovely breezy day but unprofitable one to my growth of grace, although I had desired to spend it in worship and intellectual improvement yet I was much annoyed by the many little cares and vexations incumbent upon me; situated as I am with a little stock that I must attend to in person although I have the company of Shaw & Haynes, as neither of them trouble themselves about me; or mine or interest themselves in my welfare. I blame Shaw considerably for his selfishness 
Mon 21st We all arose in health and commenced the labors of the day before breakfast, S & H picking cotton and I splitting and hauling board timber (a mistake I do this tomorrow) I rove out boards while H helped me; a couple of hours splitting & barking the bolts
Tues. 22d I worked in AM in PM I went to Millers to grind, remained till after breakfast, came home in the Rain.
Wed worked a little in AM, in PM I rove boards. Shaw mowed off the sweet potato tops with a scythe borrowed from Miller Haynes did not work, everything about goes wrong.
Thurs 24th S & H picked till noon I stacked up the boards and got dinner PM Rainy. But little done. Haynes helped about an hour in all sawing 3 ribs and lifting them up into their place. my crib work goes slow
Fri. 25 S & myself worked at the center loft covering it and making a sort of floor for cotton. I prepared for a trip to Gonzales

Sat 26 Arose early and went to Kents to Breakfast. passed Millers returning to him his Scythe, dined at Gipsons, staid at Mr Zumwalts till after brkfst. went to Gipsons. sick with Fever
Mon 27 Better. quite busy. spent the night at Mr Tinneys.
Tues at Gipsons
Wed 29. Fever off. started for home. put two letters in P.O. for P & B I sold my Hogs at town for a note on Mr Hinds $9.00.1 dined at Hinds. came on and supped at Kents. came home
Thurs 30 1 took some Calomel, and some salts.
Fri unwell
 
Sat I had intended starting for Gonzales but was too unwell
Sun Oct 1st. I spent the day tolerably well only. Remarkably wet weather. Rain every day. my big crib. the weather and indisposition have hindered us so that we have not got ready to gather the corn which is rotting in the fields Mon. Oct 2d A great deal of rain to day. S & I laid on what boards I have and they were sufficient to cover one of the cribs. The corn might have been housed nearly a month since if I had made rail pens. Now it is rotting and we have the large soaves penned constantly to keep them out of the Field thus losing of the mast and Range beside the corn I feed them. Our cotton too is wasting very much our scaffold is full but cant dry because it is so wet	there are many little things neglected that ought to be done, Shaw is cross and
 
Tues 3 Rain all day. but little work done out of doors. S fixed a small cotton bin in the covered pen. I washed and sewed.
Wed 4. 1 picked Cotton. S ditto in AM. I cut a tree for board timber. Haynes helped me; saw 2 cuts off, which occupied half of PM. I fond twould not make boards and we quit. I fond another. We have had good weather to day. these two last moons have been far South and quite erect, indicating warm and wet.
Thur 5 A fine day with strong SE wind, night pleasant. I cut a board tree and spent the day in preparing it for the saw.
Fri 6 S & Haynes assisted me; all AM. sawed up the timber. PM Rain. heavy no work done. cattle and hogs go in the field
Sat 7. Cool north wind clear & fine, high water, gathered 4 waggon loads of corn, the wet has damaged it some(?). the Hogs & cattle more
Sab. I staid till M when I started for Gonzales. took some corn to Kents to grind. went to Hinds where I staid night
Mon 9 After brkfst I went up to Dewitts but cold not cross the Guadaloupe. returned to Dr Browns but failed there and came to Kents to dinner. Billins and Miller were gathering corn. I ground out my meal and came home after night
Tues 10. S & H pick cotton. I bolted up my board timber in AM PM I worked on the crib some. I sawed some of the corner logs
Wed 11 1 could not find the oxen. got wet and laid by till M PM I worked a little at the corner and pulled corn. warm
Thurs 12 A little Rain. wind from N. cool & windy. Musquitos S & Haynes picked cotton all this week so far. This morning I hauled out my board timber & C. fine wood. pleasant PM I rove out some boards. the men pick cotton 90 or 100 pounds

Fri 13 1 spent the AM in little chores, cleaning and cooking turkey. PM I rove out some boards, the timber is drying fast
Sat 14 1 rove out some boards. Shaw & I covered the n crib. by(?) keeping a forward breeding sow in a pen with other hogs, a cow & c. she lost a litter of pigs and is quite sick. B Powers dined here to day, and left his man with me;. we have no salt or lard, or greasy food. Shaw and I gathered corn PM. there appears to be little mutual respect between us now?
Sat Oct. 14. cont. Each of us seems to distrust the other. How is this am I in fault? at any rate S is too much for me;. I wish to do correctly. I think I might have done more wisely had I contented myself with Rail pens this year, however I was led into my crib business by Shaw they are still unfinished, corners to be sawed down, fronts to hew down. cracks to chink up & c. I have some 150 boards on hand and some timber. If I should farm it another year I ought to pursue a different course. I have lived during the past season almost as if I had no intellect. Being anxious to do my part of the labor I have gone on day and night neglecting y private matters & c to benefit our mutual cropping. In future I ought to make a specific bargain with a cropper hold the reins myself and maintain my position with Respect.
Sabbath 15th This day badly spent. time unimproved against my will.
Mon. 16. Arose at light and spent the day in going to grind & c. borrowed three pints of Salt of Kents. some percussion caps of G W Davis got a pair of cotton socks of Mrs Davis Cot(?) houses their plow
Tues 17th We hauled corn. Haines picked cotton
Wed 18 1 have no meat and we depend pretty much on hunting Haines picks cotton and is fortunate in killing Turkies Shaw & I picked corn today quite steady. Weather fine.
Thurs 19 We hauled 7 loads of corn and killed 3 or 4 turkies
Wed 26 fin gathering corn
Thurs 27 1 picked cotton
Sat 28 1 started for Gonzales on foot the horses having left and strayed in that direction, I went to Mr Millers and staid over night, the horses were at Mr Kents last night, but as they have gone I must walk
Sun 29 1 walked to Mr Hinds and staid over night. Horse not here
Mon 30 went on to Gonzales was taken very ill, business Pro. Court
Tues 31st Quite sick. Mr Pilgrim & family who have returned from Houston are living at the old place and are quite kind. he gave me; medicine. Sister is attentive November Wed 15th Nov. I have recovered sufficiently to venture Home. Mr Pilgrim has repaid me; a yoke of oxen he lost of mine after the late runaway scrape. His hired man assisted me; as far as Hinds' where my Horse has been staying. I came on with the oxen to Kents
Thurs 16 Left Kents and came on home. feel better and pick some cotton in PM I am much needed at Home
Fri 17 Picked Cotton and finished the Field
Sat 18 We all went over the River. I ground meal The others went to see Mr North. Mrs Davis gave me; 2 potatoes

Sab. 19th We all staid at home but Shaw & Haines will leave tomorrow to pick cotton at Mr Norths field
Mon. Nov. 20. S & H left for Norths. the most of the day spent getting them off Sat 25th I have been quite busy during the week at little jobs around I bot Haines cotton of him and he then rued the Bargain so I let him have the cotton back again. I bot home a load of Peakans & Kashews at 3 Dollars in stuff. I start for Gonzales to day as on Monday I must be at Probate Court, having been appointed Amin-tor to my Fathers estate. I killed a turkey and took it along Tues 28th Arrived at home again and killed another turkey
Wed 29th I Repaired my truck waggon, hauled rails, partly made a fence round my cabin, hard weather. cold & Rainy
Thurs 30th Very cold & wet. I fin. the fence and staid in doors all day. Fri Dec 1st. I washed and mended my clothes. weather still wet.
Sat 2d No rain I hauled some rails for cow pen
Sab 3rd hard frost for the two last nights. to day fine clear & cold to Day spent in resting, reading, meditation & prayer & c
Mon 4th I went to Davis, Campbell & Norths. very wet & cold. ground meal & c Mon 18th. There has been no settled weather this month but almost constantly rainy. I have consequently been unable to work much although I had calculated to do considerable. I was to have gone to Gonzales to attend the sale of some of my late Fathers effects but I could not the roads were so bad. the sale is postponed until Christmas. I was at Gonzales on the 13th-14th and returning I brot G Hinds with me; to drive the team to plough and we gathered my cattle as we came, arriving at home on Fri M. 15th but the wet weather still continuing we cannot plough. I have done but little (viz) I hauled the old (Shaves) pen up and some rails. made a good sized double pen having places for 3 gates but at present have but one gate finished one little corner for putting hogs, a few rails hauled for fence, one load of pumkins from Millers &c.
Tues 19. Still too wet to plough, yet a clear windy day. I jobbed about fixing a pig sty, hauling a few rails and poles, burning prarie & c.
Wed 20 G Hinds & I ploughed prarie for a garden patch. below the cow pen Thurs 21 Did not find the oxen untill late noon. ploughed the rest of the Day. I scarcely mention the turkies I kill as it has become such common sport for me;, however I have been unsuccessful of late hunting
Fri 22 ploughed half a day and spent the even in preparing for Gonzales. the steers are ill broken and the plough sorry, we have in all ploughed a little more than an acre including garden spot.
Sat 23 S Hinds and myself started for hinds & Gonzales. I found another little niece 3 days old at Mr Pilgrims. I staid at Gonzales untill Fri. M. 29th came home brought S Hinds with me; Sat PM
Sabbath last day of the year tried to spend profitably I sold things at am sale came — cool & pleasant Sabbath A pleasant day, profitably spent, weather cool & pleasant 
Mon 23 1 continued laying off to plant stopped to stock a shovel plough but found that by putting heavy weight on my cary plough she did best

Tues 24 Wed 25 NORTHER I laid off. Jefferson cleared off thicket corner – quite warm on Tues. a cold norther at night continuing all [ ---- ?] & night
Thurs 26 we continued laying off ground and planted some corn & c
[Note-pages 49 and 50]were once separate sheets, but they are now glued to a stiff paper]
[Pencil at top of 49 says Feb. 1840. But actually it is 1846, as it says at upper corner very faintly as well as on top line of verso page]
Feb 6th Fri – Clear and Pleasant I worked at [ ---- ?]
7th Sat. Ploughed. but that was hindered by having the Nut off the Plough Rod. repaired the loss. Miller called and was on his way to Squire Forans. I sent seven Dollars by him to pay the Printers bill for printing my notice of letters test Sab. 8 AM Miller here Mr Buckanan called in – nothing much about Religion! Remainder of day spent tolerably profitably
Mon 9th Frost I Ploughed well 
Tues & Wed pleasant I fin ploughing prarie
Thur 12 Rainy & Friday Rainy I made a Harrow & c. Fri night very cold & [----?]
Fri 13 Cold a cold norther increasing since morning quite wintry I planted some squash seed asked [ ---- ?] Home lettuce & Pease at the Elms at the edge of the Bottom are not yet much grown
Sat 14th Frost I ploughed some old ground and hunted deer.
Sabbath [ ---- ?] [Frost] also a fine cold and S wind. comfortable by fire Mon 16 1 grubbed – PM I ploughed
Tues – I spent AM at sowing harrowed PM part of – was hindered for want of suitable oxen as the stronger the team the better. I borrowed chain w/ [ ---- ] Wed 18 – I harrowed about 3/4 day – very cold and wet norther. NORTHER continued to night
Thur 19- Fri, and an hour or two on Sat morning I harrowed and finished (I think it would be a good plan to harrow ground as you break it up because it is a heavy job anyway and if done immediately after breaking it would be very mellow.) Sat 21st I went to shop sharpen my plough — Jefferson Gipson came — cool & pleasant Sabbath A pleasant day, profitably spent, weather cool & pleasant —Mon 23 1 continued laying off to plant stopped to stock a shovel plough but found that by putting heavy weight on my cary plough she did best
Tues 24 Wed 25 NORTHER I laid off. Jefferson cleared off thicket corner – quite warm on Tues. a cold norther at night continuing all [ ---- ?] & night
Thurs 26 we continued laying off ground and planted some corn & c.
Fri 27 Drizzling Rain – we planted some rows but did not work oxen POTATOES planted out to day in 35 hills bedded some yesterday. we cut six house logs –planted a few tomato seeds – gourds – melons
Sat 28 Clear, warm & pleasant, laid off and rested PM, the vegetation is not much forward, plumb bushes have been in full bloom some of the Elms begin to look green and the young dogwood leaves but the post oaks are not swelling their Buds yet, Polki(?) sprouts

Sab Mar 1st cold & windy but clear. pleasant
Mon 2 windy in north — almost frost — quite warm in sun — clear. we laid off and planted corn I was hindered [----?] of day with [----?]
Tues 3rd A light frost that disappeared with dawn. we laid off and ploughed corn all day and caught horses to save for cattle
Wed 4th	?] went to S planted and Ander's hunting steers	?] & steers —
one steer
[five lines unreadable]
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
[Note: Seven partial lines are visible at lower corner of reverse, ending with: "I made a
table &c &c"]
March [8]th [----?] 1846 Sunday [----?] weather [----?] improved
Mon. cool & cloudy — fine for ploughing. we broke up ex[----?] ----?] planting [corn?] four [----?] grubbing [----?]
Tues 10 [----?] before day, but cleared off	?I we harrowed what we planted --?] ploughed some, grubbed some [----?] corn up [----?] quite fast, vegetation progresses [----?] time [----?]. suitable vegetables to plant [----?] unpleasant feeling, [----?] upon [----?] & c. plan [----?]
We continued breaking up and planting prarie during March. in Apr we hauled out my house logs and raised covered &c. my home previous to [----?] after which I was hindered by my family but we run round the corn and thinned it. and then gave it a good ploughing and quit on the 11th of May — I think that with a good assistant we could with 2 good horses & ploughs cultivate the whole field next season — But take notice, do all the heavy ploughing in the cool weather, have the ground in as good order as possible before planting — Recollect that I would really have done better to have cross ploughed my first piece of prarie before planting / this season / also Leave the ground smooth as possible after planting, if possible to procure an iron tooth harrow. plant deep clover with plough and then harrow over all — then having provided good Ploughs and trained the hordes before commence ploughing as soon as the earliest corn will admit. The weather is then more suitable, corn	?] with	?] and a thrifty farmer ought to
be done ploughing by the hot	?]
1854
1 begin this year with rather better spirits than last. although I have not rented my field or secured any certain help I have had Richard with me; at present. I am not well fixed to plow, having no gentle well broke oxen except 'Ben' I need another Horse, Plows, and more corn, my fence is all to be reset
2d Jan planted Irish potatoes. I have not suffered much loss in my cattle, they are increasing. I have now some fine unbroke steers. My Ferry is in pretty good order although the banks are steep; attending to it I can not do regular field work. if I could rent my field I could have more leisure and would not be chagrined at the sight of its weeds & c.

5th 3 p.m. After a warm morning and a hot noon a Winter blast swept down from the N. cold. a severe night Ice perceptible this morning. the first this winter. A cold windy day, a little Sleet but too cold for much of the article of the water freezing in tanks & c. the ground, grass, f[ ---- ?] & c. slightly encased in ice everything without indication of winter.
8 A clear still frosty morning. I have never observed a more heavy frost. a quiet, still, clear, sunny Sabbath Day stillness reigns around. the wild Duck in large numbers sport around in the River below the boat. God has made this a lovely land well suited for the temporal abode of man. Oh that Pure Religion may abound and Righteousness elevate our inhabitants. I long for the society of good people.
9th Another white frost. heavy frosts this month.
15 Cool frosty mornings with Clear dry weather have continued thru the week. today very warm and a very strong S E wind. when walking out of the wind perspiration flows freely. nothing in the farm last week
20 for the past few days the weather has been warm, cloudy, wind S.E.
21 Another sudden and severe Norther arose at night of the 20th inst. it blew very hard all night and was freezing. My Young hogs being very poor did die of cold and hunger during these severe storms. Very cold to day
22d Sabbath. A severely cold but still night. cold still sunny this morning.
Feb 2d. the weather has continued very Dry, warm spring like but some frosty mornings, to day very warm until PM a norther makes every thing wintry 3 in this morning cold punishing windy morning. considerable complaint of dry weather, ground hard to plow. I rented 12 Acres of old land at 73 corn, the plowed thicket land at its culture one year and other thicket land at its culture 2 yrs. 40 or 50 Acres at the fourth of the crop, the Girl(?) has plowed some. R a little and we are all hauling Rails and remaking fence & c.
18th we have had a weeks cold cloudy weather, north wind, drizzling rain, enough moisture enough now in the ground.
22d Dry, with foggy mornings, hot. I planted the roasting ear patch rows four feet apart each way 72 north & s. 44 east & west 1-1/6 acres.
24 A Slow drizzling rain began before day. Cold yesterday, but moderate now.
25 cloudy, wind S.E. by E. at night Rain, succeeded by a norther with Rain, lightning, & c. a windy day. S West hard all day. strong enough to prostrate a weak fence. Cold & windy at night. Mr Lynch has been planting corn in my field this past week, 125 rows N & S, beginning on the upland, running through the field from the Gate to the upper fence. 28th Cool cloudy weather, not much forward vegetation. Post oak buds not open.
March 14th this morning is more spring like than any I have observed. we had light frost on the 11th excepting which we have had none for a long time, although it has been cold. I planted 3 Acres in corn last week (6th & 7th) harrowed over with brush to day. we have a nice cabbage patch set out. Green Pea vines a foot high, but the Auts(?) are bad.
17th we finished planting our other corn price of 4+ Acres. having first broken up then laid off one way dropping cross the furrow to stakes. covering with brush drag. very dry and I am afraid badly done. I was too ill to drop the cover myself

and the cowpen now requires two hands to break in the new heifers. the furrows consequently became dry before we could plant the corn. I find also that the true way to secure a stand is to be liberal in the sowing of the corn. do not fail for want of sufficient seed. better use up twice as much as usual than to fail in a stand the first time and the weather is fast becoming hot and dry.
March 20-22d I plowed out the roasting ear patch besides attending to the cowpen, the childrens lessons, and the ferry; the corn is plenty high to plow. we planted beans, peas & c. in the replant. I think that there is more ease and less risk of covering up the young corn where it is left with a very small ridge upon it. were I planting again I would lay off, clover with small plow 2 furrows and then scrape off the top of ridge just before the corn comes up. have a small place for the horse to be guided by in walking. he would not be apt to step upon the corn, nor would the loose clods roll upon it.
Ap 10, 11, 12. Had an opportunity of trying the above plan, in planting over the cut planted 16 & 17 last month but as it is increasingly dry in this vicinity I feared to level off the row but left all the dirt on it, and as it was, so mellow when the
corn was up I could not harrow for fear of tearing out some of it. the weather is dry and very windy and has been cold up to to day. it is still windy, hot, very drouthy, though my earliest corn is hip high and growing, and is much more pleasantly plowed in such a hot day than small
sickly looking corn, or windy land would be.
30th Sab. very cold the last two nights, clear dry weather no rain yet, early corn still looks well and grows. but the garden does badly. No field work. A beautiful Sabbath day. our health is pretty good. we hope to attend the evening bible class Methodist preacher attended last sab. at Hester's.
May 1st no rain young tassels being occasionally found in my early corn 4th showery and cloudy not quite showers either.
5th cloudy & showery. a Regular Good old fashioned Rain in the afternoon & at night. none too much, and not violent but the best season the corn has had. Mr Lynches corn is in fine order for it having just been worked over and is now from 2-1/2 ft to shoulder high. it held its color well and was now in need of just such a Rain. another at earing time will bring forth fine corn. — working ferry Banks until — I had but little ground prepared and but few slips ready but set out such as I had. I have been working in my other work.
14th cloudy. warm, threatening rain, damp; corn looks flourishing.
15th & 16th plowed out the balks of my young corn in Center of field (planted April 10th 11th & 12th) thinned to a stand. hot & dry. this PM (the 16th) the most sultry weather we have yet had.
May 18th red in eastern Horizon, thunder, cold looking clouds in the North, prospect for Rain which is now much needed as the early corn is tassel and earing although it is not grown tall, however I think a good rain will make it pretty fair. in our Roasting ear piece we have as fine stalks, well supplied with vines of Beans and Peas as I ever had. We began to clean it out hoeing the peas, we planted pumkin seed that are now up.
22d showery weather in this immediate vicinity, a heavy storm last night high up the River and to the westward. only the edge of it touched here. I think there has

been a great deal of Rain during the past week on the tributaries of the Guadaloupe and I expect a rise of water in consequence. we set out our scanty supply of sweet potatoes vines, and had a pleasant shower this afternoon. but the ground is not wet deep. Although there has been occasionally a hot day yet upon the whole we have had a pleasant spring, and I believe I could begin now as late as it is and plant a crop working it out and all by choosing my time, as I observe the heat is not constant but there is some cool pleasant working weather, alternating with more sultry. Being nearly out of old corn for Bread I notice with interest
June 15th corn to grit) the progress of my Roasting ear patch as I shall have to resort to it 1st Roasting ears fit to cook when? Ans. May 27th and then [----] 28th