Morning at the Office, occupied much as usual. Received a letter from my Mother of a rather serious, remonstrative tone, which did not serve to add to the height of my spirits, already somewhat shaken. But she gives me assurance of her intended return here, which is gratifying.1 Read the law upon maritime loans for my arguments, and some of the Statute Law. Afternoon, Burke until nearly five when I went to see Abby at Mrs. Frothingham’s. The weather which had been exceedingly warm cleared off sharp and windy. Went to P. Chardon Brooks’ in the evening. A supper party to the Bride. Quite surprised as I had committed the heresy of going in boots. Invitation short. I would have preferred that there had been none. For as I did not know any of the Sargents, the evening was stupid. Abby was more restrained that I ever saw her which puzzled me. But her affair with Sargent makes it awkward.2 The supper was handsome and I was delighted to escape.

Morning severely cold. At the Office, examining the Law Case without finding much. Read also some of the Massachusetts Reports. My system was not altogether in a good condition, being a little deranged by last night’s Supper. Afternoon, went to see Abby at Mrs. Frothingham’s. My feelings perhaps were more tender than usual, but her coldness of manner was very astonishing, and after having suffered it for some time, a strong reaction came over me and I left the house with feelings in no enviable condition. I was so weak as not to be able to resist the tears which fell with bitterness, which only proved to me how much I loved her. It is the first time I have felt as if I had a right to complain. I sought to forget it by constant attention to some literary subject at the Office. And so I read Dr. Johnson and Mr. Boswell. The fit went off and I felt more calm.