I was engaged in the regular performance of my duties throughout the day, until four o’clock, when I desisted as I was obliged to prepare myself for dinner at Dr. Watkins’s. We found assembled, Messrs. Hall of the Marine Corps, McKeever of the Navy, and Ramsay of 122the Army, Columbus Munroe1 and two gentlemen lately arrived to take situations in the Branch bank of the U.S. in consequence of the troubles and removals which have occurred lately. The dinner was a pleasant one and the Champagne circulated freely; we were detained until after ten o’clock. It was more of a drinking set-to than any thing I have seen very lately. But we were all prudent. McKeever is a pleasant fellow and Hall really a gentleman. Walked home and went to bed fatigued and a little disgusted.

After the duties were accomplished which are arranged before breakfast, I availed myself of a leisure day, but repented of my determination before I had been long out in executing it. I mean fishing. I felt languid and dull from the disagreeable effects of the drinking yesterday. Those days are over for me. I find myself entirely beyond relishing them. On my return I found a letter from Abby which amused and occupied me for the rest of the day. I read it over and over. But felt a little unwell from the heat of the Sun acting so long upon me. Evening at home duller than usual.

Morning duties regularly performed. I find it necessary to add another page of Record to the number required to be done, which somewhat shortens the time devoted to Geography. After breakfast I went to Mr. King’s and spent two hours looking at the worst likeness of my own face which could easily be found. Upon my return I found a letter from Richardson1 which I read, and wrote one to Abby which occupied me the remainder of the day. In the evening, a thunder storm, the first which we have had this Spring I believe. Miss Roberdeau left us after having enlivened our family society for a week.

I took a bath, but the water was too cold. I felt chilled during the remainder of the morning. My morning duties were performed, after which I wasted the day, employing it only in writing two letters, one 123to George and the other to Richardson.1 My spirits sunk from want of occupation and it was one of my horrible days. In the evening, Reynolds, the expedition man,2 called to see me and drew me out of myself for an hour.