The largest fire took place yesterday that has been known since the existence of the present organization of the Fire Department, and I went down to see the ruins. They extend along from the Mill Pond so called to Blackstone Street. The wreck was considerable of stables, shops and dwellings, mostly of small value and pretty fully insured. The principal inconvenience and loss falls upon the Tenants of them who lose furniture and stock. Such is life.

I accidentally met Richardson, my former Classmate and friend and not having seen him for a long time, I asked him to come to my Office and we talked over old and new times. He told me much respecting his present situation. He is desoeuvré far more than I because he has few resources in his own mind. He has married but his relations with his Wife’s friends are unpleasant. Such is life.

He left me so late, I did little else. Home, finished the Essay on Satire. The more I look the better I like my father’s picture, though it does not give his fire. After dinner, Ride with my Wife round the environs. Pretty. Quiet evening.