Morning fine although colder than it has been. I passed part of the morning in reading that amusing romance of Voltaire’s of Zadig1 and part in reading Livy. This was the day devoted to the observance of the Annual Thanksgiving. I attended divine service and heard Mr. Frothingham from Ecclesiasticus 32. 11.12.13. “Get thee home without delay, there take thy pastime and do what thou wilt, but sin not by proud speech, and for these things bless him that made thee and hath replenished thee with his good things.” I was not much struck with the Sermon although it was sensible.

For myself I reflect upon this Anniversary that I have every cause to be grateful and thankful to divine providence. Prosperity has been to me uninterrupted and if I have ever been inclined to repine it has been that I have not exerted myself more to deserve it. My prayer is one of perfect submission to the divine will and yet of continuance of these blessings which I do not deserve.

I walked with Mr. Walsh and he and Mr. Davis dined with me quietly, without form or parade. This is the way that I like to entertain—my friends, sociably and without any of the burden of company. After dinner they sat some time. Evening Mr. Brooks and Mr. and Mrs. Frothingham came in and we had a pleasant little Supper.