Morning pleasant. I was oppressed with a fit of dullness and low spirits. How much my temper and disposition changes by circumstances. Returned to town alone. At the Office. Found a letter from my Mother1 which was extremely dull and pained me considerably. Another from my father in a pleasant and confiding tone. He invariably intimates however his disposition to suppose me a political man, a course which only strong circumstances could induce me to pursue.2 Read Kent. Afternoon, Executive Record. Went to hear the Sheriff of the County deliver a Lecture in the Court room upon the difference in the duties of an English and an American Sheriff.3 An amusing if not useful production. The bar generally were present. It was a voluntary on his part and caused peals of laughter. In the evening, took a walk in the Mall. The weather was warm and evening very beautiful.