Returned to town in Mr. Brooks’ Carriage with Mrs. Brooks, Mrs. Everett and Abby. The morning was very beautiful. Found George had returned and had a good deal of conversation with him about affairs at Washington. He thinks political prospects looking up. I have not much hope. He says my father is very thin and pale, which I am sorry to hear. The rest of the family are well. Read a little of Blackstone. Afternoon at my room copying Executive Record and reading Novanglus. Evening, George called and we had further conversation.

Morning, Office, reading Blackstone. Afternoon, occupied myself as usual but found a great deal of trouble from a head ache. I attempted to walk it off, but it increased until it rendered every thing like occupation impossible. I then put my feet in hot water and went to bed.

My head was but little better although not so violent and convinced me that I wanted medicine. Office in the morning but felt quite unable to remain there. Chardon Brooks came with an invitation from his father to me to go and dine there with a party, which I was compelled to decline on prudent considerations. I took some medicine and remained at my room. My day was rather dismal as I felt incapacitated from pursuing any, even the lightest employment, so I laid on the bed, until early in the evening when I went to bed for the night.

Morning, somewhat better, but felt still a little feverish. This did not prevent my going to Medford this morning although far from absolutely sure whether it was the better course. My head ached at intervals although before evening the pain left my eyes where it had somewhat troubled me. But my throat and gums were in a proportionately inflamed condition.1 It is evident that I could not feel in a perfectly agreeable condition or in a suitable one as a lover, and so I wished myself away very sincerely. Had I stayed away however, I should have worried Mrs. Brooks and Abby much more. As it was, the latter nursed me kindly. Henry Dalton came out here but I did not see him.