Dark with drizzle and an Easterly Wind. Arose late. I spent my morning in a variety of ways. Completed my Journal in the first place. Then took a turn to the Wharf to fish but found the Tide had been too quick for me. Wet my feet in trying to get bait without effect. Got back and after changing my dress, read the letters of Pacificus and Helvidius upon the proclamation of neutrality. Also, more of the Debates in the Massachusetts Convention. All the talent in the State was arrayed in its favour, against the majority perhaps in numbers. Had the objections been better conducted the decision would perhaps have been less fortunate.

After dinner read part of the 13th book of Cicero’s letters to Atticus, but the afternoons are growing so short that the progress in them is not so great. Read also Bacon’s Essay, of Deformity. Conversation with my father upon Politics, and then we all went to Mrs. Baxter’s 152party. Few or no Quincy People but some from Milton. It was quite handsome though dull. My father and I walked home and I read the Spectator.