Cold and clear. Time divided as usual. Evening at home.

At the Office I was engaged in writing Diary and then beginning the re-examination of the Life of Burr with a view to writing a review. This is a business I do not much take to, but as I have nothing on hand at present, it will save me from idleness. I must first however notify Dr. Palfrey of the same. Walk.

Began today the Electra of Sophocles, an unfinished work of last Spring and drew some conclusions in favour of my progress from the facility with which I read it.

After dinner coins down to Pupienus. I go too fast for my historical study which has not as yet gone farther than Galba. And what a record for the mind of a philosophical observer of human affairs. And what mere puppets are men and women when they give up the guidance of noble thoughts. Evening, French and a chapter of Miss Martineau’s amusing book.