Morning cold with clouds. An easterly wind which has prevailed nearly all the year. I went to town and was as usual in the midst of occupation. Called at the House to superintend the painting, then to see Mrs. Fuller for rent, which she did not get me, then to the Office to Accounts and collecting the remaining Dividends.

Saw Mr. A. H. Everett and read to him the Address I had prepared, with which he appeared well satisfied and took it for the purpose of publication immediately. Politics look in an extremely doubtful state at present. Both parties waiting with great anxiety to see the result of this day’s voting in Pennsylvania, which will go very far to settle the question either way.1 For my part, I look on with more indifference than my precise position politically speaking justifies. It is from the little hope of advantage to the Country, and the want of personal inducement to exertion that I find myself standing as I do. Called to see Mr. Brooks and then home.

Afternoon out. Mrs. DeWint and Mrs. Angier dined here. I was out to see Ayer the carpenter who was here today but who did nothing of the duty I directed. He does not catch ideas quickly. It was a day of general muster at Braintree and the roads were full though the Quarries and working places were deserted. Home. Evening, walk with my father to Mrs. T. B. Adams’ where the ladies had gone. Only the family and the Millers. Cards. Home early, though not too early.