Snow and rain with exceedingly disagreeable walking. I was occupied some time in finding the Schooner Velocity which I did not succeed in but the Captain afterwards called to see me. I accordingly prepared instructions for Mr. Spear at Quincy which I sent out to Quincy by the Stage as well as another copy through the Mail.1 This took most of my time. I could not gain a regular walk, indeed there was scarcely any necessity, for my business gave me exercise enough.

Home. Read Chateaubriand, in whose letters I am a little disappointed. Finished the Cours d’Histoire of M. Guizot which is interesting enough. Grimm.

Evening Conversation with my Wife about future arrangements. Mr. Brooks is in great difficulty about the formation of an Establishment for the Summer. I am embarrassed by his wish that my Wife should remain with him—A wish which I cannot gratify without sacrificing my relations and myself. On the whole after a great deal of reflection upon it I remain in my former opinion that my proper course is to be independent between them. In this manner I shall not alienate 107either too much from me. At least not justly. My children and my own situation in Society also require something of me. Evening, Wilhelm Meister.