The cold was extreme this morning but it afterwards moderated very much and became pleasant. I went to the Office expecting visits from one or two of my Quincy acquaintance on business matters, but they did not come. I therefore enjoyed a very leisurely period which I improved in making up Accounts and so forth, and writing up Diary. I had some little talk with Mr. Walsh and we took a walk.

Called at the Advocate Office and took out my last paper upon the Currency which does not appear likely soon to be published and which if retained might delay my pamphlet. Gibson bored me with an account of the dissensions of the democratic party about filling the Collectorship. I think this the dregs of politics. Indeed the whole subject is getting into one inextricable maze of confusion. I believe divine providence consults my interest in keeping me out of it.

Home to read Livy. Afternoon, Burnet, Chateaubriand, and Forster each in turn. Evening, M. Lamartine, and then revising and rewriting the last of my currency Essay.