Clouds and snow. Exercises as usual. Evening at home.

My regular lesson with my children, for John is now coming in to read the Bible with his sister. After which attended divine service and heard in the morning Dr. Frothingham from Psalms 100. 5. “And not we ourselves.” I am ashamed to say what a slight impression it made upon me. Afternoon Mr. Bartol from 1. Thessalonians 5. 16.17. “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing.” The union of the two as forming cheerful religion was the theme of his discourse. It had good and bad points in it.

The day was so uncomfortable that I did not walk. Miss Welsh brought in quite an alarming account of the condition of Louisa at Washington, which was procured through Mrs. Lawrence. I am deeply concerned for it. For I know not what the result would be to my father, and mother, whose relaxation is all now in that child. My own children were all more or less ailing today. This with the state of my private concerns makes me gloomy. Yet my trust is ever in the Deity that he will not deal with us entirely according to our sins.

Read another discourse by Mr. Leechman upon prayer in continuation of the last. Job 21. 15. “What profit would we have if we pray unto him.” Upon the advantages of prayer and a general answer to the common objections. We spent the evening at home dull enough. Read some imaginary conversations by Walter S. Landor, conceited dogmatical and unsound.1