The morning was dark and lowering and soon after turned into rain. I went to the Office as usual and was busy in making my usual progress in my affairs. My calls were numerous, among others Miles Farmer came up and attempted to take me in. I could not easily keep my temper because he most evidently came to gull me. I was more angry perhaps than I should have been, but it satisfied him that I was not to be imposed upon. He left me, I trust for the last time. My Tenant has not been near me since he received his Lease. I am a little afraid of the circumstance, but I went to see how Hollis came on and was pretty well satisfied with the progress made.

Abby had agreed to go to Medford today notwithstanding the weather. So I returned home at one o’clock and after waiting a little while, went out in a Carriage with Mrs. P. C. Brooks and Mrs. Frothingham. Upon our arrival we found that Mrs. Brooks was not so well. 138Indeed I never saw her when she seemed more suffering. It seems to me pretty clearly evident that her term of life is rapidly drawing to a close. But this is too unpleasant a subject to be whispered, and indeed it seems to me it is a severe thing for the consideration of that family. Her influence in cementing them is strong though scarcely felt. When it is gone, I cannot precisely tell what will be the end of it. And it is as well not to attempt to look forward. We dined there and remained while the rest returned to town.

I had much conversation with Mr. Brooks who treated me very kindly. It is somewhat remarkable how different impressions influence me with regard to him. I suppose this depends much upon his feelings to me which vary as much. My coldness he cannot admire and yet at times I cannot help it. It is my bane every where. I retired early as usual.