Diary of Ebenezer Parkman

    Diary of Ebenezer Parkman, 1727

    1727 January 1 (Sunday). This Morning I preach’d upon [blank] And on the Same text in the Afternoon. It is very Necessary I should Strengthen my Resolutions and mend my pace in the Christian Course, if I would finish Well. Alas! how many Seekers are those who trifle in vain Efforts; when it is our great Duty to Strive to Enter in at the Strait Gate. A Strait Gate truly is the Gate of Life (and so it ought to be) but do I not prove my Self the Author of many of the Difficulties that add to its Straitness? O that I might obtain the quickening Grace of God to inspirit me, and make me fervent and Constant to the End of my Life! but particularly this Year I am now Entering upon that I may have a more Comfortable reflection upon it, and account to give of it, than of the Year past. And as I beseech the Influence of the Divine spirit and Grace in My Soul, I would likewise the Divine Conduct in the Blessing upon my bodily and secular Affairs, that I may do and Enjoy Nothing but to the honour of God.

    1727 January 2 (Monday). I rode to Mr. Swifts

    1 according to appointment made with Mr. Barrett and Mrs. Leasingby to meet them there at one o’clock. And though I was precisely at the hour, they did not wait for me. However, they were not So long gone before Me, but that I caught up with them a mile of Two further down. We were in at Livermore’s
    2 and din’d there. It was heavy riding and sometimes rainy; so that it was somewhat tedious! I lodg’d at Father Champneys.
    3

    1727 January 3 (Tuesday). I rode to Boston and found my Fathers family comfortable (Thanks to God).

    1727 January 4 (Wednesday). Towards night I went to Mrs. Edwards’s (the widow of my good Friend John Edwards

    4) and pay’d the Ballance of our Account. Thence I went to Deacon Greens
    5 printing house and paid him for my years news, etc, etc. I had design’d to have been upon my Journey home, but it continued such dark and wet weather that I defer’d it.

    1727 January 5 (Thursday). I went to Lecture and heard Mr. Prince

    6 Excellently preach on Prov. 27.1. I met with my dear friend Mr. Greenwood after his long absence from me and was made acquainted with his Design of Setting up an experimental Course of Mechanical Philosophy. I hope it will be followed with the Divine Blessing and all his other good Designs succeeded. Mr. Gee
    7 invited us to dine with him. I spent a part of my Afternoon with a great deal of Delight (there being other very good Friends there) but I was oblig’d to Engage my Self in my Necessary affairs. It was raining but I was much constrain’d to go as far as Cambridge and I reach’d there.

    1727 January 6 (Friday). Brother Champney

    8 and Sister Ruth
    9 rode with me home. It was very Serene weather but as heavy travelling as I can remember through the Late Excessive Rains. We got home very timely and I found my Family well. God has carry’d me through many a Difficult Journey, and given me great occasion to magnifie his goodness, extended in this Last.

    1727 January 7 (Saturday). Mr. Barrett has appointed to Change on the Sabbath approaching, but I have heretofore met with so many disappointments there, I was very full of concern lest I should be put to some Difficulty. However I rode over to Hopkinton, which when I came to I was wel Satisfy’d in finding him ready to ride to Westborough. Here was Elder Barrett

    10 and Mr. Charles Coffin, which made me to be Chearfull again.

    1727 January 8 (Sunday). I preach’d at Hopkinton (in their new Meeting house) on Phil. 3.13.14 a. and p.m. After the Exercises I found it necessary to return home, they having no Hay at all at Mr. Barretts and severall Horses to provide for.

    1727 January 9 (Monday). It continues (as it has been ever since Friday) very foggy and rainy weather. Brother Champney much afflicted with the Tooth ach.

    1727 January 10, 11, 12 (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday). I was variously Employ’d in reading Mr. Joseph Addisons Works, vol. 1, 12 [rwb 2?], etc, etc. Captain Fay came desiring me to visit his son, but my circumstances would not allow me.

    1727 January 13 (Friday). Brother Champney went home.

    1727 January 15 (Sunday). I preach’d on Luk. 13.24, a. and p.m.

    1727 January 16 (Monday). A fierce storm of Snow.

    1727 January 17 (Tuesday). Mr. Holloway Sent his Lad for me to [see] his Child.

    11 I rode over and found it but alive. I pray’d with them for it, and then the Child Chang’d and Expir’d while I continued to Instruct, Exhort and Support the Heavy and Sorrowfull Parents under the grievous Loss, it being a fine son of his own Name and in its 3d Year. Mr. Cushing
    12 to see me and lodg’d with us.

    1727 January 18 (Wednesday). I was at the Funeral of Mr. Holloways Child. I rode upon Mr. Holloways Horse both Yesterday and today. It was raw, bleak Weather and I find I caught a cold. I could not go to the Grave but turn’d in at Mr. John Pratt Juniors.

    1727 January 19 (Thursday). I had a Sore troublesome night of the last, having the Teeth ach and ague in my face. Mr. John Fay, Junior sent a Man and horse fore [sic] me, but I was so ill and the weather so Wet that I was prevented.

    1727 January 20 (Friday). Mr. Simeon Howard

    13 and his Man with his Team came to get me a Supply of wood. I join’d William Clark [sic] with them.

    1727 January 21 (Saturday). I was pretty well recovered from my indisposition. Mr. Balley

    14 came to our house Expecting to Meet Mr. Jenison,
    15 whom they had engaged to preach at that part of Marlborough call’d Stony Brook,
    16 but he came not.

    1727 January 22 (Sunday). I preach’d a.m. on Luk. 13.24; p.m. on Heb. 4.1. The Lord Graciously forgive my unprofitableness!

    1727 January 23 (Monday). Mr. Pratt brought me his horse to ride to his Brother John Fays. I went up accordingly and found him in grievous pains. I pray’d with him and used my Endeavours to Comfort and Relieve him as far as Means so poor as those I am impower’d with, might be Effectual.

    1727 January 24 (Tuesday). Mr. Cushing came to see me. I find next to inconceivable Benefit by having frequent Conversation with my friends, especially with my Brethren in the ministry. But I am griev’d they can have no greater advantage by me. The Father of Light communicate Wisdom to me but especially make me wise in the Things of God! Mr. Cushing lodg’d with me. Mr. Cushing return’d home. P.M. I was much affected with what I read in the Life of Mr. Mat. Henry,

    17 of his wonderfull Labours and Serviceableness. Example seems to have a far greater influence upon me than precept, since it so gratifies my under powers, my imagination, and curiosity; and thereby captivates my affections. Its sad that my understanding and Judgement are no more Employ’d upon the purity and perfection of the Divine Laws, and the infinite Justice, Supremacy and goodness of my God that injoins their observance! But I am glad I can any way be wrought upon, and brought to my Duty.

    1727 January 26 (Thursday). Attended to my Subject. Phinehas Hardy

    18 came and first back’d my Colt.

    1727 January 27 (Friday). Mr. Samuel Willard

    19 of Boston Merchant was brought here by his Kinsman Mr. Simon Willard
    20 of Hassinamisco. I noted well his excessive antipathy against Mr. Thomas Smith
    21 (a Preacher) with whom he was formerly exceeding intimate. There is Sad work when Such sort of Companions fall out and rake into the Dirt and Dung hills of their Conversations to blaze the Mystery of iniquity about the world when it is Shamefull so much as to think of what is done of them in secret. But I hope God has given his grace to Mr. Smith and that he has truly repented of all his Youthfull Sins. God Grant Mr. Willard the Same, and I would not forget my Self. But I am Oblig’d to acknowledge the Goodness of God in the Restraints granted to Me, So that I never was carried to the prodigious Enormitys of Such Men. Yet God forbid I should Pharisaically Say I am not as other Men.

    1727 January 28 (Saturday). My Heart in the Evening too indifferent and Slightly [?] in my Examinations. O Lord Quicken thou me in thy Way! To the Dust my Soul cleavest fast.

    1727 January 29 (Sunday). This was a good Day in Several regards. I was much affected with the Sermons I Delivered from Ps. 95.7. Today if ye will hear his voice. But it had been better if Mr. Willard of Boston and others at my house had not at noon been so full of unsuitable Discourse. God forgive wherein I in any ways countenanc’d it by my Criminal silence. The Evening I would not let go off without some very Serious Enquirys what if this be all the Day that Ever I shall hear the will of God in? What if I should die before another Morning? Let me now put My Self into some actual Readings for my Last hour.

    1727 January 30 (Monday). What I did Chiefly was in the Clergymans Vade Mecum Volume I.

    22

    1727 January 31 (Tuesday). I rode to the South part of Marlborough (call’d Stony Brook) to Dr. Bellus’s,

    23 to see Mr. Willard, and here was his Kinsman that had been up with me. I tarried here till near night and then rode up to Mr. Brecks. N.B. Captain Willard’s Characters of Mr. Ebenezer Gee
    24 and Mr. John Mountfort
    25 at Boston.

    1727 February 1 (Wednesday). Mr. Willard and his Kinsman, the Chearful Captain

    26 came while we were at an Excellent Dinner on Roast Turkey, etc., at Mr. Brecks. Near Sundown I was very Eager and Earnest to come home. Mr. Breck urged Exceedingly to stay but I resisted his most pressing Importunity and took my leave. I mounted and my Business leading Me down to Mr. Woods’s,
    27 Messrs. Willards would walk thither. Mr. Wood treated us handsomely and we all Sang the more chearfully. Here I rose up not a few times to return home but Captain Willard hung upon Me and would by no means let me have my way. Mr. Jonathan How
    28 (the Tavern keeper) came up from Boston while we were at Mr. Woods’s and having several Haddock I bought one for my Wife; and we returned to Mr. Brecks, where We had Sad and Melancholly News of a Young Man Mr. Simon Bradstreet that last friday fell down very suddenly on Mr. Greenwoods wharf at Boston and next morning dyed. The News Letter had given an account of the very Surprizing and most Sudden Death of Mr. Samuell Hirst
    29 A.M. of Harvard College, who not long Since fell down Dead on the long wharf at Boston, being in perfect Health (to appearance) the moment before. And one Lewis
    30 Sometime publisher of the Boston Gazette, the same afternoon was taken with an Apoplectick fit and dy’d in Two Hours. O that I may also be ready, and that all Young Persons might fear and prepare, Since So many die in full strength, etc., to Demonstrate to us that in an hour that we think not our Lord cometh! I lodged at Mr. Brecks tonight also.

    1727 February 2 (Thursday). In the morning Jonathan How came and invited us to a fish dinner. Accordingly we all went up to his house and Din’d with him on Haddock. Here his Brother Hezekiah

    31 of Westborough happen’d very Lukily, whom I implor’d to carry home my Fish and some necessarys. When we came from Mr. Hows, we parted with Mr. Breck and rode to Mr. William Jonson’s
    32 and thence up to my house, Messrs. Willards being with me. They lodg’d with us.

    1727 February 3 (Friday). Messrs. Willards went to Stoney Brook, while I confin’d my Self in my Studys as also

    1727 February 4 (Saturday). This Day. It was exceeding Stormy and Snow’d hard.

    1727 February 5 (Sunday). I preach’d on Heb. 3.14, both fore and afternoon. The hard weather allow’d me but a small Congregation.

    1727 February 6 (Monday). My Brethren Elias and Samuel

    33 came (with Lieutenant Samuell How of Framingham their Conductor) to See us.

    1727 February 7 (Tuesday). Mr. How went home after Dinner. My Brethren acquainted me that my Sister Susanna

    34 had been Twice publish’d to Captain Josiah Willard of Salem. A cold Season.

    1727 February 8 (Wednesday). It being Somewhat warmer, my Brethren went away for Boston. Towards night came the Willards and lodg’d with us.

    1727 February 9 (Thursday). Mr. Willard preach’d my Lecture from Prov. 27.1. I beseach God to grant this Young Gentlemans Endeavours may [be] [illegible] and accepted. He has undertaken for nine Sabbaths at Stoney Brook and I pray his Labours there and Everywhere besides may be Succeeded for the great good of many! After Lecture they went away. Mr. Jonathan How of Marlborough and Jedidiah How of This Town came to Sing. Mr. Bradish

    35 came to Request my Prayers and Assistance in a Matter grievous and Burthensome to him respecting his Oath of Administrator to an Estate of a Kinswoman of his (when living) of Boston.

    1727 February 10 (Friday). My Heart is so backward I fear my Preparation for the Sacrament Approaching will be none of the Best. I find all my Sufficiency must be of God.

    1727 February 11 (Saturday). It was Violently Stormy, Blustering Cold Snow, Extream Tedious and Difficult. The Snow Deep.

    1727 February 12 (Sunday). I was much afraid the Sacrament must have been put by, and Captain Fay

    36 mention’d its being So; but provision being made and a Very Considerable number of Communicants present I proceeded though truly it was a Very Severe Season. I preach’d on 2 John 8, a.m. and on Heb. 3.12, I trust in the Meritts and advocation of Christ, but I’m sure my performances, some of them can recomend Me to God.

    1727 February 13 (Monday). I began to Read the Synopsis Criticism

    37 on the New Testament for a Morning Exercise. Captain Willard call’d here.

    1727 February 14, 15 (Tuesday, Wednesday). I read miscellaneously. Chiefly Mr. Willard

    38 on the 5th and 7th Commandments and the Art of Speaking.

    1727 February 16 (Thursday). I was Employ’d on my Subject as This is my Business and Employment, and such an one as calls for great Constancy and patience. So God grant I may So continue in it as in some measure to Deserve the Approbation and Comendation I Know thy services.

    1727 February 17 (Friday). Mr. Cushing came to see Me. I would fain reap Some Benefit of Every Such Conversation.

    1727 February 18 (Saturday). I was taken up with my preparations.

    1727 February 19 (Sunday). I preach’d upon Heb. 3.13 a. and p.m.

    1727 February 20, 21 (Monday, Tuesday). I early (in the Week) began my Studies for my Sermons. I conceive many advantages would accrue by it, and I’m Sure not a few Disadvantages would be avoided by it.

    1727 February 22, 23, 24 (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday). Mr. Ball (Junior) cut wood for me. I could make but Slow progress in my Business because of my Affliction by the Toothach.

    1727 February 25 (Saturday). My Toothach continues; but I finish’d my sermons (to a very small matter) by almost an hour before Sunset, when Mr. Cushing came and requested me to go to Shrewsbury. But my indisposition Oblig’d me to tarry all night.

    1727 February 26 (Sunday). In the morning I rode to Shrewsbury and a.m. preach’d on Ps. 95.7; p.m. on Phil. 1.27. In the Even, Captain Keyes

    39 visited me. I read Mr. Hancocks
    40 Ordination Sermon
    41 by his Father,
    42 and Mr. Ward Clarks
    43 by his Father in Law.
    44

    1727 February 27 (Monday). After I had gone with Mr. Cushing to his house, din’d, etc., I returned home. Many of the Town came in to see me, it having been Town meeting. Mr. Ball (Nathan)

    45 brought me Tobacco.

    1727 March 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday). Notwithstanding the preparations I made for last week yet I proceeded to other. I preach’d on Phil. 12, a. and p.m. I rode to Stoney Brook, to Mr. Willard.

    46 With him was Mr. Brintnall.
    47 The last rode with me to Mr. Swifts. I was design [?] to Boston, but receiving a Letter from my mother by Mr. B. How at Framingham meeting house, I turned back. I rode to Mr. Hows
    48 and lodg’d there.

    1727 March 7 (Tuesday). In the morning I rode to Marlborough. Din’d at Mr. Woods (with Deacon Wilder

    49). I went with Mr. Breck
    50 to his house and (it storming hard) I remained here all night.

    1727 March 8 (Wednesday). The storm continued, but yet after dinner I removed. Mr. Breck went with me to his Son Williams

    51 (his daughters lately lying in
    52). Thence I returned home.

    1727 March 9 (Thursday). Very high winds. I my Self Sleded home wood with my own Team (mare and Sled).

    1727 March 10, 11 (Friday, Saturday). Considering my Appointment to go to Boston next week, I Employ’d my Self in preparing Sermons to serve one on the following Sabbath, for I had finished for the approaching Sabbath.

    1727 March 12 (Sunday). I preach’d all Day on Phil. 2.12.

    1727 March 13 (Monday). My Wife had Designed to go to Boston with me but it was so rainy that she was obliged to give up her intention. About Eleven it held up and I set out. I was at Mr. Coles

    53 (the shoemaker) where I saw Distracted Mrs. Bowtel.
    54 I got down to Cambridge between 7 and 8.

    1727 March 14 (Tuesday). I rode to Charleston with Father Champney (it being Court Time), and thence over to Boston with Brother Hicks.

    55 I spent my Time at home.

    1727 March 15 (Wednesday). We had very joyfull news from my Brother John.

    56 In the Evening I was at Mr. Greenwoods
    57 Lecture which was upon Projectile Motion. I can’t but Conclude these Exercises by Experiments are the most beneficial as they Reduce all to Sensible Demonstration. When I return’d I went in with Mr. Greenwood to Dr. Clarks.
    58 At home I saw Captain Willard
    59 of Salem.

    1727 March 16 (Thursday). Mr. Sewal preach’d the Lecture on John 15.5. I din’d at Brother Williams. In the Evening My Sister Susanna was marry’d to Captain Josiah Willard of Salem by Dr. Mather.

    60 The Ceremony over we Sang Psalm [blank] and the Doctor had many uncommon Observations upon the Concluding words of the psalm and explained Several other Texts in that millenary Scheme. I must observe here that I had very much Concern upon my Mind lest Every Thing throughout this transaction should not be to the Glory of God, and devout in the Eyes of Men. But last of all did I Suspect my Self.

    1727 March 17 (Friday). My Brother Elias gave me one of Mr. Webbs

    61 books on the 4 Last things; and Deacon Henchman
    62 gave me the Extraordinary binding. I visited my friend Mr. John Adams.
    63 In the Evening we had much more Company than I thought of. Mr. Secretary Willard,
    64 our Cousens, Mrs. Sarah Porter and her Sister, Mrs. Dorcas Bows,
    65 etc., etc. I have grievously and Sadly reflected upon my Levity this Evening. I am very much afraid that in the Eyes of Some of the Company my Demeanour was not altogether becoming. But there was nothing criminal in my Conduct with one that considers what a time of Joy it was with us. However I think I might have spent more time with the graver people, especially have improv’d the opportunity of acquainting my Self better with the Secretary and perhaps it had not been to my Disadvantage.

    1727 March 18 (Saturday). I had additional Trouble by some Discourse my brother Samuel had with me upon the articles of my tarrying no more in Boston when I went down; for it was very stormy weather and I was urgent to return home. It rain’d till between 10 and 11, when holding up a little I left home, truly with my heart full of Sadness. Veruntamen in quoquo peccavi, vel mete vel oculo, vel olioquiu Sanguis pratiosus Jesu Mei per totum purgabit! It was one o’clock (as I remember) when I set out from Cambridge. I lit upon Mr. Tainter

    66 riding up with Hannah Warrin.
    67 I rode to Dr. Bellows of Marlborough, Stoney Brook, where I stop’d, Mr. Willard being gone up to Westborough. I was not well, or I should have reach’d home, and there was almost Sunrise to have gone by. I went to Bed not very Well. I was exceedingly fatigued and very faint. But what Surprized one very much in the morning Mr. Willard came in—for my wife Expected that if I returned from Boston at all I should reach home though it were 12 at night first. He soon went back to Westborough and I preach’d at Stoney Brook (the South part of Marlborough) a. and p.m. on Prov. 3.6. At Even I returned to my own house. I found all things Comfortable. Deo Opt. Max. Grates.

    1727 March 20 (Monday). Mr. Willard left us to go to his Lodgings.

    1727 March 22 (Wednesday). I had not very well got over my Journey yet. Mr. Cushing (I understood) brought home his wife. I a little wonder’d why I was not sent for but Time will open the Cause.

    1727 March 25 (Saturday). I received a Letter from Mr. Cushing which invited me to go to his house on the 21 to Meet his Wife, and the Letter was written some considerable Time ago, but miscarry’d till now.

    1727 March 26 (Sunday). I preach’d on Phil. 2.12, a. and p.m.

    1727 March 27, 28, 29 (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday). I was closely and Strictly Engaged in My Sermons and in my Enquiries into [blot] of the Land and of my People, particularly that I might prepare my Self for the Solemnity drawing nigh. But it is to be remark’d that the 27th was a very Tempestuous, Cold, Snowy Time, at which my Brother John Parkman was Shipwreck’d at Cape Ann. The Thirtieth was Publick Fast. I preach’d upon Ps. 51.10 all Day and Endeavour’d to improve the Day also as preparation for our Sacrament.

    1727 March 31 (Friday). I apply’d my Self to my Study only.

    1727 April 1 (Saturday). I was Strictly Employ’d in my preparations for the Sabbath approaching.

    1727 April 2 (Sunday). Sacrament. I preach’d all Day upon 2 John 8. After Meetings my Wife gave me the Heavy Tidings of the Death of my Brother John Parkman, but I had no very certain account.

    1727 April 3 (Monday). I went up to Mr. Fays

    68 and Engaged him to go down with me, my Wife and Sister, But

    1727 April 4 (Tuesday). On the Day appointed it rained hard and put all things off.

    1727 April 5 (Wednesday). I sent to Mr. Fays but was disappointed, and in the afternoon I went away alone; To Mr. Swifts

    69 first, the Association not being dispers’d. Thence I rode to Mr. Peabodys
    70 with Mr. Baxter
    71 and Wife,
    72 and Mrs. Peabody and Mr. Bucknam.
    73 At Mr. Peabodys was Major Quincy
    74 of Braintree.

    1727 April 6 (Thursday). I rode to Boston to gain Information concerning my Brother, and I was Certify’d that on the 27th of the Last Month My Brother John Parkman was coming in from Anguilla (having been at Barbadoes to which port he came from Cork) in a Vessel built by him at Dighton, And with the Building, fraughted rigged and mann’d at his Father’s his Brethren’s and his own charge. He was now laden with Cotton, Rhum and diverse valuable articles, no small quantity of Gold, but the Heavy and greatest part of his Lading was Salt. But that this (27th) Day proving very Stormy they were driven near Cape Ann and finding that all that remain’d for them to do was to shift for their Life because of the Dangers they were come into upon the Rocks, especially being nigh Normans Woe (a great Rock So call’d which they now drove upon). My Brother endeavoured by the help of the Fore tack, and taking the advantage of the heaving of the vessell, to swing off from the Vessell, if possible on upon the Rock. But the vessel unexpectedly and Suddenly hove back and brought him into the deep. The Tumultuating and raging Sea foaming upon him, and frustrating all Endeavours to recover him (though they threw out Ropes to him that slip’d through his hands and though the Mate had him once by the hand as he came along by the fore Chains) Swallow’d him up, and he perish’d in the Deep. Alas! My Brother! that Sucked the Breast of my Mother, that was brought up with me, is Separated from me and his Eyes clos’d in the night of Death. But I would not utter my plaints as if I mourned without hope. I trust that Living and Especially that Dying he was the Lords. Neither would I do otherwise than humbly own and Submissively acknowledge the Sovereign Power and Dominion of God, and bow my Self down before the unsearchable wisdom, the reproachless holyness, and with all the infinite Goodness and Divine Tenderness of my heavenly Father, and would dutifully and reverently Say that it is the Lord—and since it is he, Let him do what Seemeth him good. His wayes though full of wonder yet holy are they all, and righteous are they all, and Every of his Works for the honour of his glorious Name, and all his Dispensations towards us for our highest Benefit if we will duely Improve the Same. How broken was his Body and batter’d against the Rocks when the people of the Place found the lifeless Corps on the fatal shore in the morning! When I see the Blood afresh trickling down from his wounds my heart is again Set ableeding, and when I see his Ruddy Countenance and his athletick Constitution so soon triumph’d over and Subdued! But let me go back again and See what comes of the Rest of the Company and not let all my Care waste itself here. They were wondrously Sav’d on the large Rock (on which they had dropt from the Bowsprit of the vessel before She stove) and here they remain’d through the night though in the greatest Danger all the while of being wash’d away with the Sea that broke over them. The vesell being broken to pieces Some of the Goods were wafted along by the Rock and the Men Sav’d Some Baggs of Wool. The rest of the Cargo Goods, etc. was Lost. On the 29th our People receiv’d the Message in the Evening. On the 30th (being Fast Day) My Remaining Brethren went to Cape Ann but could not get there timely enough to do anything to purpose. On the 31 They Solemnized the Funerall, and buried him in that Town. On Saturday (April 1) they returned home. This is a Brief and Melancholly account. I Beseach God to make it Spiritually advantagious, though outwardly it is So grievous to us.

    1727 April 7, 8 (Friday, Saturday). I Attended Mr. Thatchers

    75 Lecture. Mr. Waldron
    76 desired me to preach for him. I would fain have flattly Deny’d him, but my Father was by, and I knew his mind was Set. I did not dare to refuse. I was obliged to Study very hard to prepare my Self for the Publick Exercises. With much Labour I finished my Sermon before Bed time. But I could not but be greatly concern’d about So hasty Compositions.

    1727 April 9 (Sunday). I attended at Mr. Thatchers in the forenoon, therein embracing an Opportunity to Communicate with the Church I had relation to. It was a Sacred joyfull Season. I would hope my Soul was refresh’d therewith. I din’d at Mr. Waldrons and preach’d (though in a poor, lame manner truly) to his Congregation upon the Text 1 King 13.30. It met with some kind acceptance in the Family and at their Request I repeated it in the Evening.

    1727 April 10 (Monday). I Spent the Time chiefly in the Family.

    1727 April 11 (Tuesday). I rode to Reading to Mr. Burts

    77 to obtain his Daughter to Serve in our house. From thence I rode to Salem, to Brother Willards and lodged there.

    1727 April 12 (Wednesday). It being Lecture at Mr. Stantons

    78 I tarried beyond my Design in this Town. I din’d at Mr. Stantons where was Mr. Blowers,
    79 Mr. Fisk,
    80 Mr. Ward,
    81 Mr. Chever
    82 of Manchester, and Mr. Jeffords,
    83 the last of which preach’d on Mat. 11.30. Presently after Lecture Brother Willard and Mrs. Grafton rode with me to Boston.

    1727 April 13 (Thursday). Mr. Foxcroft

    84 preach’d at the Publick Lecture. Sister Willard
    85 went to make Salem her home, diverse of the Family with her, to accompany etc. I rode from Winnesimmet to Cambridge and there was taken very ill.

    1727 April 14 (Friday). I continued so ill all Day that I scarce got up. I was confin’d to the Bed in the Day but in the Evening was worse. Mrs. Burt

    86 by appointment brought her daughter.

    1727 April 15 (Saturday). The journey home look’d very discouraging I was so ill. But riding an Easy horse and Father Champney

    87 with me, with the Girl, we reach’d home. I was very much unfitted for publick Service.

    1727 April 16 (Sunday). But resting well through Divine Goodness I rose enlivened and repeated to my Congregation (with Some Addition and a few alterations) what I delivered last Sabbath upon the Death of my Brother. At night I was considerably better Still.

    1727 April 17 (Monday). So that in the Morning My Wife and Child rode down with our Father Champney. I was concern’d that the Stubble was not plough’d for planting, according to agreement made with Mr. Hezikiah Ward,

    88 nor was there any ploughing for Sowing.

    1727 April 18 (Tuesday). I got Mr. Thurston

    89 to plow and sow my Barley, and Mr. Hezekiah Ward ploughed part of the Stubble.

    1727 April 19 (Wednesday). And again he ploughed in the Stubble.

    1727 April 20 (Thursday). And he ploughed a Morning Spell more.

    1727 April 21 (Friday). Sometime after Sun down Lieutenant Forbush

    90 came and requested me to go down to See his Wife who they thought was drawing near her End and wanted to See Me. I went down. When I Entered I Said Mrs. Forbush I am Sorry to See you So ill; I am come at your Desire; which way can I become the most Serviceable to you? She reply’d She was under apprehension of the approach of Death and she could not but be under fears on So great an Occasion. Upon which I proceeded to enquire into the grounds of her Fears telling withal that I should endeavour to remove them and (receiving Some very generall answers) to promote the matter the more readily I began to Say Something concerning true Repentance, universal Obedience and the unfeigned Love of God and to the People of God which finding in her might Shew to her the Truth of Grace to be wrought in her, which being demonstrated must necessarily make all things bright and clear and comfortable. But this process I managed in such as easy and familiar manner as this following.

    1. I am hoping (Mrs. Forbush) you have freely reprented of any sin that you have known your Self guilty of. She answer’d that She trusted she had, and was heartily willing to, of all that she had been chargeable with that she had not particularly known of, etc.

    2. You have told me heretofore that you have us’d your utmost to keep the Commands of God universally but especially now Since you have openly dedicated your Self to God, and join’d your Self to the Communion of the Lords people and waited upon Christ Table I conclude you have much ground for Satisfaction and Comfort. (You Should have if you have Sincerely and uprightly done your Duty.) To which she [said] It has indeed been a Comfort to me and I am now glad that I have not that work to reproach my Self with the commission of, (or in these words) I am glad havn’t that work to do now (having some reference I believe to the Trouble that many have been in at such an hour that they had never obey’d the Comand of Christ) etc., etc., etc.

    3. Well, Mrs. Forbush but to let you see things more plainly Still. Let Us a little further enquire. Don’t you find in you Such a Love to God as has made you both repent of Sin and Obey his Comands from a Desire of his Glory? etc. etc.

    But to find out some further proof of all this and to have some stronger evidence of your Love to God and Christ, have you a pure love to the Godly; do you love the Disciples of Christ, those that you think bear the Image of God unfeignedly?

    She. I hope really that I do.

    N.B. Mr. Thomas Forbush

    91 and wife, Captain Byles
    92 and wife, and Jedediah How
    93 were in the Room, besides the family. But the person being look’d upon as near expiring I thought not to thrust those persons So well acquainted with the woman, as nearer She has not (except one), out of the room, and Seeing my discourse was generall and what anyone might hear. Yet when under any of those heads any particular private matters have occurr’d it has then been usuall with me to desire the Company to withdraw. But here I apprehended would be such things spoken as might be very profitable and suitable for all that heard, as I concluded these near Relatives were gratify’d not a little by them. However, upon some account or other it Seems Old Mr. Forbush
    94 is displeased and though at the most awfull time when every thought was profoundly Serious and solemn Yet he thinks fit to [illegible] upon us in a sad passionate manner upon the last Sentence, spoken thus. Sir, We are grown folks. I turned about in great Surprize and calmly looking upon him and then as calmly Speaking asked what he had said. He repeated the Same words as before. I asked him what then? (Now raising my Self up in my Chair) why then (says he) we understand these things already have read in the Bible and Some other Books, and ourselves know these things being grown folks and come into years. Here up I Spoke the words following (his Wife, his Sisters, especially the apprehended Dying person besought him not to open his mouth any further, they being astonished as well as I and the woman declaring it much to her Comfort and benefit that I had proceeded as I had and that it was the End of her sending for me, etc.). Mr. Forbush, I am astonish’d at such an interruption at such a season, when I come upon my Commission and Charge to minister in the name of God to a Servant of his ready to leave to world, etc., etc. Says he, If I had been in your place I would not have asked Such Questions. I reply’d in defence of them. He Said Mr. Breck would not ask Such. I answer’d I was not now to enquire what Mr. Breck would ask, but I was able to affirm that the most Learned, the most pious and the most Judicious ministers would. I therewith pray’d him to Say which were improper and wherein. He appear’d not able to tell so much as what any one Question was that I had asked. Well, Said I, Seeing you won’t or can’t tell me which, etc., I’ll endeavour to recollect all that I have said, though I did not Study before I came down what I should say, nor had I time; neither did I confine my Self strictly to any Method but Said what I thought of the greatest weight in the Case before me. I then recapitulated and demanded as I went along what exceptions he had to make and wherein they were so grossly injudicious as to be foundation enough for his So Strange interposition. 1. He Suppos’d She had repented before now and she had examin’d her Self before this time o’Day often and often no doubt. And then I had liv’d in the house and knew the woman long ago. So that I had no need to ask Questions now. Besides I had or Should have ask’d her when She was admitted into the Church. Truly, said he, if it was my wife you Should not have asked her whether she had repented of her sins. We hope She has done it long ago. To which I Said, This Person I knew So Well as that I Saw no danger from my asking generall Questions. She had had nothing Scandlaous in all her Life that I know of, neither could any one think that I desir’d to rake into all the particulars of her past conversation in the world and managements in the Familie (not but that If I had made Such enquries She might I believe have produc’d what would have been very instructing). Were I examining a person that had been notoriously vicious and demanding a particular confession and before So many witnesses it had been another thing; but I have been endeavouring to assist this person in preparing actually to give up her account to the great Judge, and though she may have view’d it numberless times and we may have review’d and examin’d it together yet now at the awfull juncture before delivering it into his hands we act most wisely to look all over as carefully as possible to find out whatever escapes or flaws there may be, Since it can never be done after, throughout Eternity, and Eternity depends upon this account. Mr. Forbush those Questions appear injudicious to you; yet they are so far from being a reflection upon your Sister that the most advanc’d Christian that is on Earth won’t Scruple to ask them and they are the very questions therefore that the gravest and profoundest Divines in the Christian Church do put in these Cases, etc. etc. 2. You ask (Say’d he) whether she had not comfort in her having been at the Sacrament. How needless that question. What do you think She went to it for, Sir? I admire at you Mr. Forbush. Your Sister’s End was to testifie her Obedience to the Command of Christ, and to obtain of her Lord Divine Grace and Support under all Troubles and difficulties, to Engage Gods mercifull presence in a time of Extremity, especially when Death approaches. She has been I Say, for these great and important things and now when She needs them most of all I ask whether she has got her Errand and how she is Sure She has these things and This is impertinent, etc., etc. 3. And You asked whether She lov’d the Godly? What a Question that is! I know what you mean whether She loves all that Appear professedly to be Christians. I havn’t a Charity for everybody because they make a profession. There is some that I know of that I won’t have a Charity for though they have join’d to the Church. To which I rejoin’d Mr. Forbush in trying whether true Grace be in the heart love to Christ’s Disciples is always enquir’d into. I doubted not but your Sister doth So, yet it is ask’d to make all things as clear and fair as possible. By Christ’s Disciples I mean the Same as Saint John doth by the Brethren by which are understood all that any way bear the Image and Resemblence of Christ, and Mr. Forbush notwithstanding what you have last Said as to your Charity I’ll tell you mine is So extensive that there is not a person in all Westborough but I would charitably hope he may be a subject for the Divine Grace to work upon. Well, he would not, etc. It was time I should do what I could for the woman. I told him he had prevented me and unfitted me, etc., but I turn’d about and went on. Mr. Forbush ask’d I’d forgive him if he had said anything wrong but he thought he would not ask Such questions. So that I So far lost my labour with him. I told him if he was So much disturb’d about them, I would submitt them to the Judgement to whatsoever ministers in the Country he should Choose. I pray’d him to consider his sister. He was willing with all Saying that he knew not how soon he should need me on the Same account and therefore again desire me to forgive his bluntness, but yet He could not desire me if ever I should to ask him such sort of Questions. Thus did he in a strange manner keep up the flame by throwing in oil when he pretended to cast in water to quench it. No, Mr. Forbush Said I with some earnestness, I’m afraid you would not care that I should deal feelingly with your soul. I now told him of my being oblig’d in Conscience to do my utmost for persons when as his Sister, etc. I shall take no further notice of the Strange reply he made me nor the long discourse he further occasion’d. I was griev’d heartily to See So much of his ignorance and passions. It grew very late. It was well the woman (it may be through her fright) was reviv’d. We came into So amicable a Compositon as to go to prayer and we parted Friends. But both my Head and heart were full. It was Twelve when I got home. Sister Ruth discern’d my Trouble. I went to bed but could not Sleep for a long time. I beseach God to quicken me hereby in my work, and make me more diligent to accomplish my Self lest I meet with worse trialls than this. I remember and would take notice of it that the Suddenness and lateness of Lieutenant’s coming for me prevented my usual address to heaven before such Ministrations. I would be humbled for my Sin and take the Punishment God inflicted for it.

    1727 April 22 (Saturday). Mr. Ward came with his Team and carted out Muck upon my Corn grounds. Mr. Ward in the afternoon plough’d a spot for flax and went home.

    1727 April 23 (Sunday). I preach’d on 1 Pet. 2.11.

    1727 April 25 (Tuesday). I went to Shrewsbury to see Mr. Cushing

    95 after his Marriage though truly it has now been some time since. But the reason was his Letter which he Sent me just before his bringing his wife home miscarried.

    1727 April 26 (Wednesday). Mr. Thomas Newton

    96 came to see me and Mr. Townsend
    97 the Schoolmaster.

    1727 April 27 (Thursday). Very stormy.

    1727 April 28 (Friday). One of my Boars was cut, a somewhat dangerous adventure, but ‘twas now cool after the storm.

    1727 April 30 (Sunday). I preach’d on 1 Pet. 2.11.

    1727 May 1 (Monday). I went abroad to Mr. Josiah Newtons, etc. When I return’d I found my wife brought home by her brother.

    98

    1727 May 2 (Tuesday). Brother carry’d Sister Ruth

    99 down home.

    1727 May 4 (Thursday). Mr. William Nurse

    100 came with his Team and plough’d for me for planting but he was late in the morning and many hindrances So that not much was accomplished.

    1727 May 6 (Saturday). Mr. Green

    101 ploughed.

    1727 May 7 (Sunday). I preach’d on Ps. 119.9.

    1727 May 8 (Monday). Captain Fay

    102 ploughed. All this before we could plant. And it was but 2 1/2 Acres. I was at Mr. Bakers.

    1727 May 9 (Tuesday). It rain’d So that Mr. Baker

    103 could not come.

    1727 May 10 (Wednesday). Mr. Baker and Mr. Charles Rices Son came and planted for me. I was afflicted with a Boar I lately Cutt, for there was Hazard So late. N.B. Lecture put by.

    1727 May 12, 13 (Friday, Saturday). My Child was very ill. In the morning I found the Boar dead.

    1727 May 14 (Sunday). I preach’d on Song 2.3 and Administer’d the Sacrament; p.m. on 2 John 8.

    1727 May 15 (Monday). I went to see Mr. Tainter

    104 and Mr. Jonathan Forbush
    105 who was sick. I Sent Some Hair to Boston by Mr. Baker.

    1727 May 16 (Tuesday). I went down to Marlborough. I acquaint Mr. Breck

    106 with my trouble with Mr. Forbush. He said though he was known to be the plainest and bluntest Man, yet he wondered at his extream Ignorance, unguardedness, etc.

    1727 May 17 (Wednesday). Mr. Stone,

    107 Mrs. Goddard
    108 and her son David were here.

    1727 May 21 (Sunday). I preach’d on Ps. 119.9.

    1727 May 22 (Monday). I rode over with my Wife to Mr. Ephraim Allens

    109 to see his poor afflicted wife. I had hair of her which I Sent to Boston by Mr. Hezikiah Ward for we returned by the way of Mr. Brighams.

    1727 May 23 (Tuesday). In the Night I marry’d Mr. Daniel Warrin

    110 to Mary Wetherby.

    1727 May 24 (Wednesday). It was very Cold. Tis the Day appointed [f]or the ordination of Mr. Amos Throop

    111 at Woodstock. Gods presence be in his Church and with his Servant.

    1727 May 25, 26, 27 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday). I had Sufficient Business with my Sermons, considering especially what my avocations may be next Week.

    1727 May 28 (Sunday). I preach’d again on Ps. 119.9, a.m. but p.m. on Ps. 25.7. I beseach God to bless these Courses of Sermons not only to the young people of this Town, but to me who stands in the greatest need of assistances of these kinds!

    1727 May 29 (Monday). Early in the morning I rode to Mr. Brecks upon my Journey to Boston, but the weather being various he detain’d me till after dinner when I left him. I hit upon Judge Meinzies

    112 and had his Company to Cambridge. He was very civil and generous to Me on the Road, though his Conversation I had no great Esteem of. I turn’d out of the Road to go to Father Champneys and thence proceeded to Boston, and was not much after nine at my Fathers House.

    1727 May 30 (Tuesday). I was not abroad much, except among my Relatives.

    1727 May 31 (Wednesday). Mr. Joseph Baxter of Medfield preach’d the Election sermon from 1 Tim. 2.1.2. Mr. Stimpson,

    113 Mr. Greenwood,
    114 Mr. Turell
    115 and I din’d with the officers of the Town Militia and the company of Cadys [Cadets?] which waited upon his Honor the Lieutenant Governour.
    116 Mr. Turell Pray’d and it fell to me to return. The Afternoon was in greatest part Spent at Mr. Henchmans
    117 Shop with Mr. Greenwood, Turell, Prince,
    118 etc., etc. We went to Mr. Sewalls
    119 to the Convention. In the Evening I was with Mr. Lowell
    120 and his Wife
    121 first at his and then at her Fathers. I was also at Captain Kings where Mr. Joseph Parsons
    122 was with Mrs. Porter. I invited him to lodge with me. Accordingly he did. He told me sorrowfull News of Mr. Samuel Coffins
    123 being far Spent in a Consumption and his Life dispair’d of.

    1727 June 1 (Thursday). In the morning (family exercises and breakfast ended) we walk’d up to Mr. Sewalls. Mr. President Wadsworth

    124 preach’d in the Convention from Hagg. 1.13. The Devotions over though there had been long contests and debates about the phrasing of the address drawn up by Mr. Colman
    125 to be Sent to his Majestie from the ministers in New England. Yet there were very hot and very long oppositions today also. And upon no other than the calling themselves the Ministers of the Churches, and whether it should not be the Teaching Elders, etc. Mr. Williams
    126 of Deerfield was chosen to preach the Next Year. We din’d at an house Some little way below Mr. Sewalls in the Same Street.

    1727 June 2 (Friday). It was late in the morning before I could set out from Charlston upon my Journey. I din’d at Father Champneys. At Mr. Learneds

    127 was Mr. Cheney of Brookfield and his wife; and thither came Breck
    128 from College. We all rode up within the bounds of Marlborough together where I parted from my Company. I got home seasonably.

    1727 June 3 (Saturday). I was much Engag’d and Employ’d that I might make up my preparations for the Sabbath.

    1727 June 11 (Sunday). King George dy’d at his Brother Ernest’s Palace at Osnaburg.

    1727 June 14 (Wednesday). The sad News of the Kings Death arriv’d at Richmond and George II was proclaim’d at Leicester House.

    1727 July 3 (Monday). My Little Daughter Molly was extremely ill So that we thought between 9 and 10, She would have expir’d.

    1727 July 4 (Tuesday). Mr. Jonathan Howard

    129 dy’d. My Child was very bad about noon and continued So, Sometime. But it was Some Comfort that Captain Whoods Widow was with us.

    1727 July 17 (Monday). I went to Cambridge.

    1727 July 18 (Tuesday). To Boston and return’d to Cambridge.

    1727 July 20 (Thursday). I came home and our Mother Champney

    130 with me.

    1727 August 1, 2 (Tuesday, Wednesday). It was exceeding hot So that I could scarce mind my Business; but was oblig’d to make Some preparation for my Lecture.

    1727 August 3 (Thursday). Mr. Cushing and his Wife happened to come to See us upon this Day. But he had no Notes with him and I had not finished my Sermon, so that I was debarred their Company very much. I Lectur’d on 1 Chron. 28.19. Mr. Cushing pray’d. His Wife not at Meeting. After Meeting I had information that Mr. Tomlins

    131 Daughter was dead. A Young Woman that had lain confin’d ever since I had been in Town; and dy’d unbaptis’d. (O Jesu Misericors ne mihi imputatur). I went over to the house and discours’d with Mr. Tomlin and with the family, etc.

    1727 August 4 (Friday). She was buried. I was full of Concern. God Sanctifie her Death to others of her Age and Circumstance.

    1727 August 5 (Saturday). It continues very hot, and parching weather.

    1727 August 6 (Sunday). I had appointed on this Day to administer the Sacrament of the Lords Supper, but we were disappointed, the Elements not being brought up nor the Person (Thomas Ward) that went for them, return’d. God graciously forgive wherever he has Seen Guilt, and whatever Unpreparedness in his Servants that Should provoke him to debarr us therefrom! I preach’d on 1 Chron. 28.9, a. and p.m. It was very hot and I was very faint and weary when the Exercises were over.

    1727 August 7 (Monday). I went to Mr. Thomas Newton’s, who had a great deal to Say about Mr. Peres Rice

    132 and wanted much that he Should be brought under Church censure, Seeing the Court of Judicature had found him guilty of violating the Civil law, in the act against Selling drink without License. I was at said Rices also but not to Discourse with him, nor did I upon anything besides coming to Mow for me.

    1727 August 8 (Tuesday). Father Champney came up to See us. It is a favour of heaven that we can hear of the welfare of our Friends, and ought to be thankfully acknowledged.

    1727 August 9 (Wednesday). Mr. Bradish

    133 came and by his Help we got in near a load of Hay which was mow’d by Nathaniel Child last Saturday.

    1727 August 10 (Thursday). Father Champney return’d from us. Near Night Captain Goddard

    134 came. It has been a time of parching Drought, but God mercifully remembers us and sends us Rain.

    1727 August 11 (Friday). Rain by the Divine Mercy.

    1727 August 12 (Saturday). Mr. Thomas Weld

    135 came up to us.

    1727 August 13 (Sunday). Mr. Weld preach’d a.m. on Ps. 63.3. I administered the Sacrament of the Lords Supper. Mr. Weld preach’d p.m. on John 9.4, former part. The whole of his performances were laudable. God make him an eminent Instrument of his Glory in his Church.

    1727 August 14 (Monday). I accompanied Mr. Weld as far as into the Mendon Road (beyond Mr. Eams of Hopkinton) he being determined to go to Mr. Dorrs.

    136 I was at Mr. Jonathan Forbes’ where there were not a few Sick. Mrs. Forbes was not Recovered. Three of their Daughters had a strong fever and Rebecca Paterson [Paddison?] lay very ill.

    1727 August 15 (Tuesday). I went to see Mr. Amsden

    137 who was Sick and had desired praying for him.

    1727 August 16 (Wednesday). I read in Wollastons Religion of Nature.

    138 I take it to be a very Excellent Piece.

    1727 August 17 (Thursday). I Study’d the Works of God beginning with Gods Efficiency in generall.

    1727 August 18, 19 (Friday, Saturday). I forwarded my preparations, considering my wife’s Hour was before her, and in Expectation of it immediately. I had the News of the Kings Death.

    1727 August 19 (Saturday). In the Afternoon my wife was pained, but no great Complaint till the Evening when She grew very ill. I went to Bed Somewhat late but could lie but a very few minutes. I rose and (being, as I gathered about midnight) rode to Mrs. Forbush and brought her up But she was not very much Employ’d till morning.

    1727 August 20 (Sunday). I rode for Mrs. Byles and sent for other neighbouring women. My wife had many pains, But I Saw Liberty to go to Meeting at the proper hour. I delivered the morning Sermon upon 1 Chron. 28.9. In the Afternoon I preach’d upon Rom. 11.36 wherein I had occasion to Mention the Kings Death, and to give fair hints at the Circumstances of my Family. When I came home at Even my wife was Still full of pains but no immediate apprehension that she should be delivered. But, a little more than half an hour after sunset (having been no long time in Extremity) She was Delivered, and the will of God was to favour me in a very high Degree. God gave Me a Son, which I have set up for my Ebenezer, for hitherto the Lord hath Helped Me. We have indeed a great deal of Reason to praise and magnifie the name of our gracious God who So Signally and mercifully appears for us, and lays us under ten thousand the strongest obligations to him. O that I may never forget his Benefits! But O that I may both Live and Speak Gods praises! Were comfortably carry’d through the night. Blessed be God!

    1727 August 21 (Monday). I went down to Mr. Thomas Forbes

    139 and was intending to marry his Daughter
    140 to Mr. Cornelius Cook,
    141 but they could produce me No legal certificate But I discoursed to them of their unhappy Circumstances and their Sin and urg’d to serious unfeigned Repentance. Mr. Cook I advis’d to go and get another Certificate, while I tarried there. He went away but a storm coming up and night hastening on, and my people at home extreamly prone to be very much Scar’d, I left them and walked home, leaving word that Mr. Cook should bring home my Horse, which He did. It was a very Awfull and terrible night and we had very little Rest (the Thunder and Lightening were So sharp) till near Day break.

    1727 August 22 (Tuesday). I again rode to Mr. Forbes’ and married Cornelius Cook and Eunice Forbush (so they will Spell their Name). I hasted home, a storm arising as it did last night. I went to Mr. John Maynards and brought up his wife to watch with mine. It was a very terrible storm and far louder Thunder than the night before, but lasted not so long. By nine o’Clock it abated.

    1727 August 23 (Wednesday). Major Prescott was here to See us and informed us that Mr. Thomas Forbush, Junior

    142 his Barn was Shatter’d by the Thunder last night.

    1727 August 24 (Thursday). My Wife and Infant through the Divine Goodness in very hopefull and favourable Circumstances. Little or nothing that was difficult with us.

    1727 August 25 (Friday). Colonel How

    143 and Mr. Woods
    144 of Marlborough visited me.

    1727 August 26 (Saturday). If on Saturdayes in Generall I am professedly more employ’d than on any other Dayes I am Surely to be thought to be more on this, and I Endeavoured to possess my Thoughts in all Seriousness, of the Weighty and solemn Transaction of Dedicating my Son to God, and I would in the Fear of God Undertake this Sacred Business.

    1727 August 27 (Sunday). I Sincerely comitted the great Article of offering my Son unto God and implor’d the divine direction and assistance, with Confession of my Sins and Thankfull acknowledgements of all especially his Signal Mercies. I then proceeded to the Exercises of the Day, and preach’d in the Morning on Mat. 19.13.14.15, as I did in the afternoon likewise on the Same. And then (I hope in the integrity of my Heart and with Souls Desire of the Glory of God and the invaluable Spirituall Blesings of the Covenant) I baptiz’d My Son Ebenezer and put him into the Arms of the Saviour that He might Bless Him according to the gracious Encouragement given to His People. And I hope I found Favours with the Lord. Mr. Joseph Wheeler presented His Son Aaron

    145 at the Same time. The Lord has done great things for me for which I was filled with Joy and Gladness. O that Gods Grace may be given me that I may alwayes walk in a suitable manner Before Him. At this Season I improv’d the Opportunity [to] renew the Dedication of my Self and My Daughter Mary and all mine unto our glorious God in the Covenant of Grace.

    1727 August 28 (Monday). I Catechiz’d the Children and I happen’d to appoint the Same hour and Place that the Town meeting was warn’d, but I was earlier than they and they waited till our Exercise was finished. Diverse persons were at my house in the Evening. I heard Yesterday and again today that my sister Tyley

    146 was very ill after Delivered in childbearing.

    1727 August 30 (Wednesday). I took an opportunity by Mr. David Maynard

    147 to send down to Boston.

    1727 August 31 (Thursday). A Letter was written by Mother certifying me of the Dangerous Circumstances of my Sister, desiring me (if by any means I could) to go down and See her in her last hours in Some measure triumphing over Death and rejoicing in hope of the Glory of God.

    1727 October 29 (Sunday). After 10 o’Clock at night the Sky clear, the air cold, there was a very terrible Earthquake which lasted Shaking Extreamly about a minute and half,—a trembling continued for a Considerable time Longer. And within 65 minutes 5 More Rumblings and quiverings might be perceiv’d, Especially the last of those 5. But yet this was not Like the First of all. In about 18 minutes more a Seventh, and near Two o’Clock an 8th, and between 5 and 6 in the morning (perhaps 35 minutes after 5) there was a Ninth. The First of all these, if not all the rest were heard (am ready to think) all over New England.

    1727 October 31 (Tuesday). In the night Sometime (the weather being Cloudy if not Rain) there was heard by Diverse persons, another Such noise.

    148

    1727 November 1 (Wednesday). In the night Likewise, it having been very Stormy Snow in the Day and the Storm not over, there was the same.

    1727 November 3 (Friday). My Wife and the Young People of the house asserted that between 4 and 5 p.m. heard the Like again. The Weather being Rainy or misty. And This was confirm’d by many other persons.

    1727 November 4 (Saturday). The Sun Shone through a Dusky, Smoky Air and generally through Thin Clouds, the wind Southerly and therefore the weather much chang’d, being pretty warm.

    1727 November 5 (Sunday). A Warm Southerly Wind, a very Thick, Smoaky air till night. In the Evening it So cleared away as to be bright Starlight. But it was while I was observing the weather that I Saw a Flash of Lightning. I was not able to discern any Clouds, Yet I am prone to think there was a thick Cloud low in the West. For it Could not be half an hour (I believe, if it was more than a Quarter) before it rain’d, and all of a Sudden beat down in Such mighty Showers that it Startled us very much. However it lasted not long. After a few Such violent Showers it almost Ceased.

    1727 November 6 (Monday). The 6th was a Warm, bright, pleasant Day.

    1727 November 7 (Tuesday). The 7th Likewise, the wind blowing, indeed Somewhat Fresh, from the S.W.

    149

    1 Reverend John Swift of Framingham.

    2 Joseph Livermore of Framingham.

    3 Samuel Champney, Sr., Parkman’s father-in-law.

    4 Of Charleston.

    5 Bartholomew Green (1666–1732) of Boston, printer of the Boston News-Letter.

    6 Reverend Thomas Prince of the Old South Church.

    7 Reverend Joshua Gee of Boston.

    8 Samuel Champney, Jr., Parkman’s brother-in-law.

    9 Ruth Champney, Parkman’s sister-in-law.

    10 Samuel Barrett, Sr., of Boston, the father of the Reverend Samuel Barrett of Hopkinton.

    11 William, Jr., son of William Holloway of Westborough.

    12 Reverend Job Cushing of Shrewsbury.

    13 One of the original settlers of Westborough. In Westborough Vital Records the name is spelled Howard, Haywood and Hayward.

    14 Benjamin Bayley of Marlborough. Hudson, Marlborough, p. 321.

    15 William Jenison (Harvard 1724), later minister of the Second Church, Salem, Mass., 1728–1736. Sibley, VII, 371–74.

    16 In 1727 this part of Marlborough was incorporated in the new town of Southborough.

    17 [Additional note: An account of the life and death of . . . Mr. Matthew Henry: . . . who died June 22d, 1714 . . . Chiefly collected out of his own papers, and faithfully published by W. Tong (London: Printed for M. Lawrence; Em. Matthews; and S. Cliff, 1716).]

    18 Of Westborough.

    19 (Harvard 1723). Later minister at Biddeford, Maine (1730–1741). Sibley, VII, 281–87.

    20 Son of Benjamin Willard, one of the original proprietors of Grafton, Mass.

    21 (Harvard 1720). Son of a Boston merchant and later minister of Falmouth, now Portland, Maine, 1726–1795. Sibley, VI, 400–10.

    22 [John Johnson]. The Clergy-Man’s vade-mecum: or an account of the ancient and present Church of England . . . Third edition (London, 1700)

    23 Isaac Bellows.

    24 (Harvard 1722). Sibley, VII, 76.

    25 (Harvard 1722). Sibley, VII, 101–02.

    26 Captain Benjamin Willard of Grafton.

    27 Benjamin Woods of Marlborough.

    28 Of Marlborough.

    29 (Harvard 1723). Sibley, VII, 190–92.

    30 Thomas Lewis.

    31 Hezekiah Howe was an original settler of Westborough.

    32 William Johnson of Marlborough.

    33 Elias and Samuel Parkman of Boston.

    34 Susanna Parkman of Boston.

    35 James Bradish or Braddish, an original settler of Westborough.

    36 John Fay of Westborough.

    37 This may have been Synopsis Criticorum aliorumque S. Scripturae Interpretum, 1678.

    38 Reverend Samuel Willard (1640–1707), vice-president of Harvard College.

    39 Captain John Keyes of Shrewsbury.

    40 Reverend John Hancock (Harvard 1719), minister of First Church of Braintree (now Quincy), 1726–1744. He was the father of the patriot John Hancock, first signer of the Declaration of Independence. Sibley, VI, 316–19.

    41 [Additional footnote: John Hancock (1671–1752), A sermon preached at the ordination of Mr. John Hancock [1702–1744]. A.M.: in the North Precinct of Brantree [sic]; Novem. 2. 1726 (Boston: Printed for Thomas Hancock in Ann-Street near the drawbridge, 1726). Evans 2748.]

    42 Reverend John Hancock (Harvard 1689), minister of Lexington, 1698–1752. Sibley, III, 429–39.

    43 Reverend Ward Clark (Harvard 1723), minister of First Congregational Church of Kingston, N.H., 1725–1737. Sibley, VII, 156–58.

    44 Clark’s ordination sermon was by John Odlin (Harvard 1702), minister of Exeter, N.H. Odlin was not Clark’s father-in-law, for Clark married Mary Frost, the daughter of Charles Frost of Kittery, Maine. Sibley, V, 168–72, and VII, 156–58. [Addition to footnote: John Odlin (1681–1754), Christian courage necessary for a Gospel minister. An ordination sermon preached at Kingston, Sept. 29. 1725. When Mr. Ward Clark was ordained Pastor of the church there (Boston: Printed by B. Green, 1727). Evans 2939.]

    45 An early settler of Westborough.

    46 Samuel Willard, the preacher at the Stoney Brook part of Marlborough.

    47 Reverend William Brintnall of Sudbury.

    48 Probably at the Wayside Inn in Sudbury, kept by David Howe.

    49 Deacon Joseph Wilder of Lancaster.

    50 Reverend Robert Breck of Marlborough.

    51 Reverend Breck’s son-in-law, Abraham Williams, a prominent resident of Marlborough.

    52 Elizabeth Breck, daughter of Reverend Robert Breck, married Abraham Williams.

    53 Probably Samuel Cole of Framingham.

    54 This was perhaps a woman who had married one of the Boutwells of Reading, Mass. In 1728 Samuel Cole of Framingham married a Sarah Boutwell of Reading.

    55 John Hicks of Cambridge, Parkman’s brother-in-law.

    56 Parkman’s brother-in-law John Tyley.

    57 Isaac Greenwood, Parkman’s classmate and later first Hollis Professor of Mathematics at Harvard College.

    58 John Clark (Harvard 1687), a physician of Boston. Professor Greenwood married Clark’s daughter Sarah. Sibley, III, 375–79.

    59 Josiah Willard.

    60 Cotton Mather.

    61 Reverend John Webb of Boston. The work was Practical Discourses on Death, Judgement, Heaven and Hell. In Twenty-four Sermons (Boston, 1726)

    62 Daniel Henchman, publisher and bookseller in Boston.

    63 (Harvard 1721). Of Boston. A classmate of Parkman.

    64 Josiah Willard (Harvard 1698) of Boston, college tutor, preacher, shipmaster and Secretary of the Province. Sibley, IV, 425–32.

    65 Sarah (Champney) Porter was evidently either a cousin or a niece of Mrs. Dorcas Bowes, who was Mrs. Parkman’s cousin.

    66 Simon Tainter of Westborough.

    67 Mrs. Hannah Warren of Westborough.

    68 Probably Samuel rather than Captain John Fay of Westborough.

    69 Reverend John Swift of Framingham.

    70 Oliver Peabody, minister of the Indian Church of Natick.

    71 Reverend Joseph Baxter (Harvard 1693), minister of Medfleld, 1694–1745. Sibley, IV, 146–53.

    72 Baxter’s third wife, Mercy Bridgham.

    73 Reverend Nathan Bucknam (Harvard 1721), minister of the First Church in East Medway (now Millis), 1724–1795. Sibley, VI, 434–37.

    74 Edmund Quincy (Harvard 1699), Councillor and justice of the Superior Court. Sibley, IV, 491–95.

    75 Reverend Peter Thatcher of Boston.

    76 Reverend William Waldron (Harvard 1717), first minister of the New Brick Church of Boston. Sibley, VI, 214–19.

    77 Thomas Burt, Jr. His daughter was Sarah (b. 1711) who later married Joseph Gilbert of Boston.

    78 Reverend Robert Stanton (Harvard 1712), minister of the Second Church of Salem. Sibley, V, 647–48.

    79 Reverend Thomas Blowers (Harvard 1695), minister of First Church at Beverly, 1701–1729. Sibley, IV, 225–28.

    80 Reverend Samuel Fiske (Harvard 1708), minister of the First Church at Salem, 1718–1735. Sibley, V, 413–24.

    81 Reverend Robert Ward (Harvard 1719), minister at Wenham, 1722–1732. Sibley, VI, 350–52.

    82 Reverend Ames Cheever (Harvard 1707), minister at Manchester, Mass., 1716–1743. Sibley, V, 326–29.

    83 Reverend Samuel Jefferds (Harvard 1722), minister at Wells, Maine, 1725–1752. Sibley, VII, 83–85.

    84 Reverend Thomas Foxcroft of Boston.

    85 Parkman’s sister, Susanna.

    86 Of Reading.

    87 Samuel Champney, Sr., Parkman’s father-in-law.

    88 Of Westborough.

    89 Joseph Thurston of Westborough.

    90 Samuel Forbush of Westborough.

    91 Selectman of Westborough, brother of Samuel.

    92 Joseph Byles, an original settler of Westborough.

    93 Of Westborough.

    94 The oldest Forbush in Westborough at this time was Thomas Forbush.

    95 * Reverend Job Cushing of Shrewsbury.

    96 Of Westborough.

    97 Joshua Townsend of Westborough.

    98 Samuel Champney, Jr., of Cambridge.

    99 Ruth Champney of Cambridge, Parkman’s sister-in-law.

    100 Of Westborough. Not listed as one of the original settlers of the town.

    101 John Green, Parkman’s neighbor.

    102 John Fay, the prominent early resident of Westborough.

    103 Edward Baker of Westborough.

    104 Simon Tainter of Westborough.

    105 The younger brother of Thomas and Samuel Forbush of Westborough. He changed the name to Forbes. He became a deacon of the church and died in 1768.

    106 Reverend Robert Breck of Marlborough.

    107 Lieutenant Isaac Stone of Shrewsbury, selectman of that town. Ward, Shrewsbury, pp. 423–24.

    108 Probably Mrs. Edward Goddard of Shrewsbury.

    109 Of that part of Westborough that later became Northborough.

    110 Captain Daniel Warrin or Warren was an original settler of Westborough. His first wife was Rebecca Garfield.

    111 (Harvard 1721). Minister of the First Congregational Church, Woodstock, Conn., 1727–1735. Sibley, VI, 572–74.

    112 John Menzies, a Justice of the Peace of Middlesex County.

    113 oseph Stimpson (Harvard 1720), of Charlestown. Later minister at Maiden, 1735–1744. Sibley, VI, 410–11.

    114 Isaac Greenwood, Professor of Mathematics at Harvard College.

    115 Reverend Ebenezer Turell (Harvard 1721), minister of Medford, 1724–1778. Sibley, VI, 574–82.

    116 Lieutenant Governor William Dummer was acting governor at this time, pending the arrival of Governor William Burnet.

    117 Daniel Henchman, publisher and bookseller in Boston.

    118 Nathan Prince, tutor at Harvard and brother of the famous historian, Thomas Prince.

    119 Reverend Joseph Sewall of the Old South Church, Boston.

    120 John Lowell (Harvard 1721) of Boston was the first minister of Newburyport, 1725–1767. Sibley, VI, 496–02.

    121 Lowell married Sarah Champney, a cousin of Parkman’s wife.

    122 (Harvard 1720). Minister of Bradford, 1726–1765. Sibley, VI, 393–96.

    123 Brocklebank Samuel Coffin (Harvard 1718) of Newbury. Sibley, VI, 234.

    124 Benjamin Wadsworth, President of Harvard College.

    125 Dr. Benjamin Colman (Harvard 1692), minister of the Brattle St. Church, Boston, 1699–1747. Sibley, IV, 120–37.

    126 Reverend John Williams (Harvard 1683), first minister of Deerfield, 1686–1729. Sibley, III, 249–62.

    127 Thomas Learned was a tavemkeeper in Watertown.

    128 Robert Breck, Jr. (Harvard 1730), son of the Reverend Robert Breck of Marlborough. Breck, Jr., was later minister of the First Church of Springfield, 1734–1784. Sibley, VIII, 661–80.

    129 Of Westborough, although the death is not recorded in the Westborough Fital Records.

    130 Mrs. Samuel Champney, Sr., Parkman’s mother-in-law.

    131 Isaac Tomblin was an early settler of Westborough. The Westborough Vital Records do not give the death of this person.

    132 Son of Thomas Rice, one of the original settlers of Westborough.

    133 James Bradish, an original settler of Westborough.

    134 Captain Edward Goddard of Shrewsbury.

    135 (Harvard 1723). Later minister of Upton, 1738–1744, and Middleborough, 1744–1749. Sibley, VII, 273–77.

    136 Reverend Joseph Dorr of Mendon.

    137 Jacob Amsden of Westborough.

    138 ‘William Wollaston, TheReligion of Nature delineated (London, 1725). Numerous other editions followed.

    139 Thomas Forbush did not change his name to Forbes as did his brother Jonathan. Parkman was confused at this point.

    140 Eunice Forbush.

    141 Also of Westborough.

    142 Also of Westborough. Later a deacon and selectman for many years.

    143 Thomas Howe of Marlborough. Hudson, Marlborough, pp. 382–383.

    144 Benjamin Woods.

    145 Born July 7, 1727.

    146 Parkman’s sister Elizabeth, who married John Tyley of Boston. She died August 30, 1727.

    147 One of Parkman’s neighbors.

    148 The foregoing entries for Oct., 1727 were recorded in Parkman’s Natalitia.

    149 Entries for Nov., 1727 are from the Natalitia.