The day was clear and cool. I rode to town. Time as usual very busily taken up, in the various commissions prior to my return. Went to my house where I am making preparations to return on the first of the month, thence to the Office. Mr. Everett came in and we had some talk. Gibson, a man whom I know heretofore as an Antimason, stopped me in the Street and requested a loan of money to carry on the war. He is employed as a runner through the Counties to circulate information and showed me a list of persons who were as he said doomed by him for certain sums. Among others A. H. Everett for twenty five dollars which may account for his call last week. I told him, I would give him ten dollars but I did not wish my name to appear on his paper. My own feelings all revolt at this mode of forcing the expression of the public will, but the habit is general and I can do no good by explaining myself. The returns from Pennsylvania seem to be decisive enough of the election. Home.

Afternoon on the hill and then to the canal lumber yard where my carpenter was occupied in picking out the materials for my house. He had finished the timber and was giving orders for the plank and boards. I remained there until sunset overseeing. Evening partly with my Mother conversing, and partly with the ladies at Mr. Beale’s where were the Millers. Home at ten.