A very fine day. I spent it very quietly at home with the exception of a long walk. Read more of the Emancipation Report and of the Bank pamphlet of Mr. Woodbury. The first although manifestly ex parte yet carries with it a vast amount of evidence of the practicability of immediate abolition. I think it tends to confirm me in my preconceived notions upon that subject. My walk extended to the Potomac River and bridge, over ground frequently crossed by me as a boy, the recollections of which are pleasant enough, and yet slightly melancholy from the passage of time.

I am beginning to feel the want of my occupations, and to look with a slight impatience to the hour of return. This will, I hope not be delayed beyond the week after next. Nothing of interest in Congress. News from Philadelphia of the destruction by a mob of the hall lately erected for free discussion.1 Such is the nature and extent of American liberty. A call from General Macomb.2 Evening at home. Visits from Captain and Mrs. Williams and Mr. Campbell. After which I read part of Senator Wright’s report.

A fine day. Morning passed in writing Diary. Then to Church at St. John’s. Service performed by Mr. Hawley1 and Sermon by a Mr. Slaughter from Virginia. John 7. 17. “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” An extremely common place Sermon as I thought it upon the evidences of Christianity and the duties it imposes, predicated upon a mistaken view of it’s character. But his manner was effective and I found afterwards he had made some impression. The difference between us and the South seems to be in matters of Oratory, that their manner is better than their matter, and our matter is better than our manner. The audience was quite fashionable.

Home. T. J. Frye2 and Miss Johnson dined with us. Afternoon, read a Sermon of Buckminster’s. Proverbs. 25. 28. “He that hath no rule over his own spirit, is like a City that is broken down, and without walls.” Upon the government of the mind through the thoughts, the tongue, the appetites, and passions. An excellent discourse and very just.

Evening, a ride, and thence to see Mr. and Mrs. Gilpin with our ladies. Met there Mr. Ingersoll of Philadelphia, Mr. Prime of New York, and Mr. O’sullivan. Conversation not material. Mr. Gilpin showed me his library which is a fine one, and we had some talk of the classics.3 Home at ten and retired early.