A very fine day. I went to the Office and was occupied in my usual manner. Made some progress in the Life of Jefferson and was much struck with his Account of the Debates in the first Congress. It is quite a pity that he had not continued them more fully. Was engaged in several commissions which consumed some of my morning.

Walk and home. I did not accomplish much this afternoon, as my wife wanted me to give directions and superintend the table she proposed to entertain her guests with this evening. We have been invited out this Winter to the houses of every member of the family and this was designed as a general return for the civilities. Mrs. Everett, Mr. Brooks, Mr. and Mrs. Frothingham, Mr. and Mrs. P. C. Brooks, Mr. and Mrs. Story, Miss Henrietta Gray, Mr. and Mrs. W. G. Brooks, and Edward Brooks made the company, being the largest I have ever entertained. We had a very pretty light supper, and tolerably agreeable time until ten o’clock when they all arose and dispersed. On the whole, I was glad to get rid of this kind of engagement at once.