Diary of Charles Francis Adams, volume 6
1835-10-19
Morning cloudy with these thick mists which have prevailed for so long. But the day became afterwards fine. I went to the Office. Oc-246cupied in Arrears of my Diary against recovering which there appears to be a spell. Mr. Walsh came in to amuse me much and then T. K. Davis with another Bowdoin Prize Dissertation. We got engaged talking and the whole morning slipped away—So that I returned to my house at the hour I fixed without having done much.
An hour which I was able to spend upon Juvenal today consoled me. I do recur to the quiet of my classical studies with delight. None of the corruptions of politics, the dirty places in men’s hearts and the violence of the passions to observe, none of the need of watchful self control which although it may exercise the character too often degrades the moral sensibilities. I will persevere in my hour to the old folks.
Afternoon, copying from the J.A. MS—A long paper of Shaw’s which is valuable only for the Account to be found in it of his fugitive pieces in the Newspapers of the time.1 Evening quiet. Finished Beckford’s little book.
The 15-page transcript in CFA’s hand of William Smith Shaw’s memorandum, apparently “compiled by him from inquiries made personally of JA,” is in the Adams Papers (M/CFA/31, Microfilms, Reel No. 327). The original in Shaw’s hand is missing, mute testimony to the validity of CFA’s efforts as a copyist to preserve ephemeral pieces he found among the family papers that seemed to him subject to loss.
1835-10-20
The weather continues mild and delightful. I took my little girl out with me to walk on the Common. She pines a little for country air. Called at Mrs. Fuller’s about her rent and at Sharpe’s about my cabinet. He is the most tremendous of all procrastinators. He promises to finish today without any intention of performing. I am less satisfied with his inside work than I expected to be. It was late before I got to the Office. Occupied as usual but my Arrears do not yet get up.
My fourth number of the Massachusetts Voter came out this morning. I hope it will take well with all the Antimasons. It is designed to encourage them in their principles and in their efforts. Home in time to read Juvenal whose eighth satire is inimitable and goes home to my heart. This is a luxury worth all the rest. Afternoon, busy in copying out of my Grandfather’s papers. I carry on a great variety of occupations.
My father came in, having been to Cambridge to attend an Exhibition. We spent the evening in conversation until nine when we went 247over to the little party at Mrs. S. B. Barrell’s. Quite mixed and very stupid. Glad to get home.