The cold keeps on and renders us all very uncomfortable. I read this morning the numbers of the Society of Useful Knowledge on Planting.1 They are valuable Treatises although they want an elementary fare to be extensively beneficial. I had some idea of writing upon the subject. Attended divine Service and heard Mr. Newell of Cambridge preach. His Text in the morning was I think, Deuteronomy 4. 9, but I am not sure, so will not quote it. The afternoon’s was stated to be from 2 Chronicles 20. 11 but I could not find it there. His 276productions were both of them pretty ambitious ones upon self review. But I think I have stated before that he is not a favourite in my mind, and I find no reason now to alter my opinion. The duty of the Clergy is an arduous one and they should not be harshly criticized, but the duty of the listener is also arduous, sometimes, and he must sometimes be excused.

For the first time for a month my head was not in order from indigestion and it as usual discomposed me. I read twice over however a Sermon of Massillon’s upon Slander. His text from John 2. 24. “But Jesus did not commit himself to them because he knew all men.” He divided the Apologies for Slander into three heads. 1. That they are about trifles. 2. That the reports are general. 3. Drawn from the Zeal for the faith. This was another valuable Sermon because it is drawn from an insight into human nature and calculated for good practical benefit. Quiet Evening. Went to bed early on account of my head.