Returned to town this morning, the weather being like Spring but damp. Found at the Office little or nothing but a short letter from my Mother intimating that Johnson Hellen had at last come out with his intention much to the discomfort of all the family.1 I gathered this also from an Advertisement of John’s in the Newspaper. It is a sad blow, but we must not expect all things to go exactly as we would have them in this world, and in our family particularly. When I look at them and our prospects, it makes me very dull. The consciousness which now rests with me that I am the only hope of the number, makes me feel more deeply the obstacles which may block up my path. Dull all day. Spent the evening at Dr. Welsh’s in conversation with Miss Harriet.

Morning at the Office. Received another letter from my Mother somewhat longer but as I think rather more depressed. She seems much affected by this affair. Read law and had conversation with George who entertained very erroneous impressions upon that subject which might one day lead him I fear to a similar miserable resolution if thrown in the way of it.1 Afternoon, Clarendon. Another of our family at Avon Place taken down with the Scarlet Fever and carried out of town. I felt as if I was to be the next, and my spirits were dull. Evening, the Spectator.

Morning at the Office. Felt dull and unwell, but finished a Volume of Blackstone and spent an hour in the Common Pleas, besides seeing Richardson and chatting with him. Afternoon, engaged reading Clarendon, whose history is very interesting and instructive. The evenings have become inconveniently short so that I had barely time to read half a dozen Numbers of the Spectator.

Morning at the Office and in Court. Received a pleasant letter from my father upon general subjects which I reflected upon much during 369the morning. His style to me is flattering to my vanity and he no doubt so intends it. Read a little law and rode to Medford to dine. The weather was very warm. Mrs. Brooks was unwell again. Conversation with Abby. Better pleased with her than last time, though she is still cold.