I went to the Office this morning but remained in it a very short time being attracted to be present at an auction of Christmas things where however I purchased only such things as I wanted of any cost. But in order to get a pair of lamps I had to wait until quite late.

Home where I had a short time to read Herodotus. Afternoon amused myself with a volume of the Correspondance Secrète which however falls off in the fourth volume. The French are a gay and volatile and a vicious people but their literature is amusing.

Evening, went to a Concert of Madame Caradori’s with my Wife, Mrs. Everett and her two daughters. The room was I think more full than on Friday and every distinguished person was there. These are aristocratic assemblages enough. She sung three Italian pieces of great execution, all of which she executed with very great clearness and beauty. Her voice is naturally one of great sweetness and melody and she has received a very good musical education. Perhaps she is more pleasing than Mrs. Wood, because her taste is more unexceptionable, yet I confess the notes of the latter overpowered me more.1 Fabi is respectable without melody, and with little expression, Comer is quite insupportable.2 Home early. Writing.

A lovely day. Our weather for a few days past is remarkable for this climate. I went to the Office where I was occupied for some time in making up packets of my pamphlet to send away.

The Newspapers appear determined not to relax in the manner they have been in the way of doing, and this of course makes my efforts far more difficult of success. I think it probable that I shall again fail in disseminating this my last effort in publishing. This is a little discouraging but however it may press upon me in moments, it shall not have the effect of permanently breaking my spirit. I will try something else which may succeed better.

Mr. Beebe called and made a settlement of interest upon the note. Short time for walk and for Herodotus. Afternoon, lounging over the secret Correspondance and giving Sayer directions about my book cases at Quincy. Evening, Lockhart, after which I went on with my work.

Delightful weather for the season. I went to the Office where I had calls from T. Adams Jr. and W. Spear both on business. I paid them the sums due for Taxes on my father’s property and to redeem a Note of mine coming due next week.

The remainder of my time taken up in making up packets of my Pamphlet. I have sent away about fifty or sixty. The publisher tells me he has sold some, but he tells me no more, therefore this means a few. 371I am not destined to make much out of this business of the Currency and although I cannot regret what I have written about it, I believe I shall give it up for the future.

Herodotus and afternoon lounging over the Correspondance which is dull. Evening at home. Mrs. Frothingham and Mrs. Everett came in and passed an hour pleasantly enough. Nothing further.