Morning at the Office; received a pleasant letter from my Mother, in pretty good spirits. Looked up a case that was argued at Moot Court a fortnight since, read the Law upon it but could not make up my mind. The news was that Col. Pickering was dead.1 I cannot say I am glad but I am not sorry. For he is an inveterate enemy to us, and my father’s residence here will be rather painful as it is, I fear. I this day, through the agency of Mr. Degrand, purchased two shares more of the American Bank which is in addition to my former investment. I have managed tolerably well, and hope it will do me service, for I have none to thank but myself in my two last purchases. Obtained a Dividend of ten dollars on a share on two shares of the Middlesex Canal. Dined at Mrs. Frothingham’s again. Gorham Brooks and Ellen Shepherd, Abby and myself. A painful affair to me, and it entirely turned the cheerfulness of my spirits. I cannot feel easy where I am conscious 340I am asked merely on Abby’s account, and the repugnance grows in me. A little of Adam Smith, Conversation with George, and in the evening, finished Pickering’s Review.