Morning cloudy which ended in a thunder Storm. I pursued the study of Aristotle as usual and formed clearer ideas of his doctrines and illustrations. A critic should not exercise his Art, until he has read him thoroughly. Went to the Office and was busy in reading over and destroying the remainder of the Papers belonging to my Brother. 103Among others a great many of my letters.1 Some of which I read and could not help thinking of the alteration in myself. I have lost ground since then, at least in genius if not in morals. I could not write so sprightly a letter now if I was to try ever so hard. Returned home.

Afternoon, Attended a Meeting of the Directors of the Boylston Market. No business of importance so that we adjourned soon. I drew up the record for both Meetings and returned home in time to avoid a Thunder Storm. Read the Fifth book of Cicero’s Familiar Letters, one or two of which at the close are very obscure.

Evening quiet. My Wife continues quite tolerably. I conversed a short time with my Mother, after which I read Mr. Pye and the Spectator.