A pleasant cool day. I went to the Office as usual. Mr. Davis came in and shortly after Mr. Adan, the Judges of the Bowdoin Prize dissertation and after a short conference we agreed upon awarding one prize, to the writer upon the effect of the Christian religion in raising the character of man. I myself inclined to award only a second prize but as the other gentlemen seemed disposed to do more, I gave in.

Accounts and Diary which I hardly manage to keep within bounds. I had agreed to go to Quincy, with my Wife this morning and was therefore obliged to go up to my house at an early hour.

Mr. Webster’s Speech at the Odeon is in the morning’s papers. It is not characterized by much strength. On the subject of the Executive Patronage bill it is very modest, hardly attempting any thing beyond a plea for holding his own opinions.1 Shall I pursue him or let him alone? I am now in doubt. The rest of my Appeal was in the Globe of this mail.

Rode to Quincy. Found the family as usual. Miss Dewint there, Elizabeth C. Adams also. My father seemed dull, probably affected by the Vermont Resolutions which he has received.2 I think Slade has acted hastily and from temper. We returned home shortly after dinner bringing with us my little girl Louisa who did not appear con-253tented in staying there although the benefit to her health is certainly manifest. Quiet evening at home. I copied Jefferson’s opinion for my father.