Morning at the Office. Occupied in writing my Journal, reading Minot and reflecting upon the business of the Election. Several little affairs took up some time, particularly some Commissions for my father which I was requested to execute, and attending a sale of Stocks for the purpose of attempting an investment for Thomas Adams. Things went however so high that I found the thing impossible. It is not a little surprising to me to see how high stocks run even now, and it shows an abundance of money existing unemployed.

Returned home and spent the afternoon as usual in reading Cicero a considerable portion of whose second book de Inventione I accomplished. It is more interesting than the other was. But I cannot help thinking that the reduction of all Oratory to method so clearly reduces somewhat it’s power. Cicero was certainly a master of his art, he shows it by the ease with which he handles all it’s parts, and by the 341regularity of the arrangement of his mind. He makes nearly mechanical what forms to others the hardest mental exertion.

After tea, I attended the Private Debating Society for the first time this Season. The meeting was small, and they discussed the question of the Rail Road. I took part in the Debate as usual and did not do quite as well as I ought to have done. Returned rather late.