Day quite stormy. Snow falling. Received a letter from my Mother1 announcing the engagement of John and Mary Hellen. This is in agreement with her last words to me and I feel rather pleased that it should thus come to an end. Of it’s probable effect upon the family I cannot yet make up my mind but in relation to George it certainly is unfortunate. There is much room for reflection in these matters. We are now taking leave of the unity of interest which binds a family together, to gain or lose by the exchange. I am much afraid she will not throw the balance on the side of the former. The day was occupied in study and conversation. Evening at home.

Morning rather wasted. Received a letter from John1 explaining the troubles in the family, rather a sad picture but one which will not probably change much for the better, at least at present. Talked a good deal with George and found him sophistical as ever. This will be his ruin. Thomas J. Hellen came in and sat some time. He had re-entered from his suspension, leaves College and returns to Washington tomorrow. In the afternoon Richardson called and sat at the Office some time so that I read but little of the law during the day. In the evening I wrote an answer to John2 instead of going to the Theatre.

I occupied myself before breakfast in writing a letter to my Mother.1 On going to the Office, received the news of the result in the late New York election2 which tends to convince me that the term of my Father’s Presidency is drawing to it’s close. A circumstance which is deeply to be regretted but to be met with fortitude. The morning was occupied pretty much in conversation upon the subject and my spirits were certainly none of the best. The day was rather wasted, not much having been done besides a small portion of Selwyn and Cruise. In the afternoon I went to Medford with Mr. Brooks, the weather was severely cold for this Season of the year, and my ride was a very sharp one. Abby was well and in great spirits at seeing me.