Morning cloudy and cool. I went to the Office and passed my time very quietly. Mr. Walsh came in and had a talk and I wrote up Diary which is constantly falling into arrears. Nothing new. Walk and Home.

Met Mr. Wm. Thomas of Plymouth who spoke to me of my papers and appeared pleased with them. I think he is the first person who has 181paid me any notice. I am nearly through with them. This day produced in print the 6th number and there will be two more at most.1

Livy—began the forty fourth book, the blunders of the Roman General and of Perseus. This reminds me of Marlborough’s remark that his victory was owing only to his committing one blunder less than his adversary. Afternoon, Burnet—Charles and James. Insufferable tyrants. Chateaubriand. His visit to the ruins of Sparta which I recollect very well reading before. Evening at home. T. B. Frothingham came in for a little while. Afterwards, Lamartine and then writing.