It is usual for me to moralise a little upon commencing a new Volume of my Journal but upon this occasion I feel infinitely little disposed so to do. My last Volume contains much of happiness and some misery, but on the whole it is a specimen of the best part of life. Before I can arrive at the close of my present undertaking, it is probable that my lot whether for good or for evil will have been cast. My mind is now inclined to gloomy foreboding, but I hope for the best and as is usual, rely upon divine providence for support.

The morning was passed in reading Mr. Burke on the Sublime and Beautiful, which work I finished. But it affords room for much more study than a single attentive reading. Went with Mr. Smith and John to the race ground where we saw a very prettily contested match, but it did not last long as the wind of one of the horses gave out somewhat. But it was interesting and with the beauty of the day it paid us fully 296for going to see it. On returning, I paid a visit to Baron Krudener1 and walked over to see the commencement of John’s intended house.2 The remainder of the afternoon was filled up with writing to George.3 I sent him a draft on the Branch Bank for one hundred and eighty dollars which together with the balance in his hands already I want him to invest for me. Evening at home with the family.