Morning at the Office and in Court. Heard arguments as usual. Nothing material taking place. In the afternoon, I sent out a Writ, being my first exertion of power. Not as I hope to any bad purpose. I wrote off a case or two from my Notes, but I find it very difficult so perfectly to remember the train of reasoning as to be able to fill them out correctly. I attempted to pursue Adam Smith but could not preserve a continued attention. In the evening, I read some of Pope’s lighter prose works. The evening was beautiful and would have reminded us of Spring, had we not a great body of snow upon the ground.

Morning at the Office and in the Supreme Court. Cases of little interest going on so that attendance is irksome. I nevertheless pursue it as well as I can consistently with the little business I have entrusted to me. My principal surprise and I must add regret, is that the family will write me nothing from Washington. The Inauguration seems to have made them torpid. I am not surprised at the result, though I must confess it is unexpected and unwelcome. Afternoon engaged in writing. I cannot study very well now, but I looked a little into the Law of Trespass, as laid down by Mr. Fuller in the morning.1 Evening, Mr. Pope, Martinus Scriblerus.

Morning at the Office and in Court. A heavy rain which promises to have an effect upon the great mass of snow and ice now on the ground. In Court both morning and afternoon paying attention to arguments. I have consequently little to say upon the matters foreign to my occupation. In the evening, read Pope. Genl. Jackson is extending his list of proscription rapidly and the most remarkable circumstance is that I do not get a syllable from the family.

Morning at the Office and in Court. Little or nothing going on and I feel excessively tired of lounging. No letters from home yet. Nothing remarkable took place of any kind. My time is taken up pretty much. In my attendance at Court I am surprised at the absence of every thing 356like agreeable speaking at our Bar. I am aware of the defect, but whether I could do better is a very doubtful point with me. I hope to attempt it at least. In the evening, I paid attention to Mr. Pope.