I begin this year with thanks to the Almighty giver of all good gifts for the many blessings it hath pleased him to bestow upon me, and an earnest prayer that it may please him to guide my feet safely through the obscurity that is before me. The condition of my own family created uneasiness from which I am striving to escape by sending a portion to a warmer climate, the effect of which will be to leave me alone here, if I am doomed to remain. at this post. On the other hand my son Charles’s health threatens me with another anxiety at home, and the sudden breaking out of a difficulty in Canada renders my stay almost a necessity. Thus uncertainty and doubt overhangs my mind so much that my spirits are at moments grievously oppressed. But I will try to go on and bear my burdens with trust and faith.

The first news of the morning was cheering. The accounts from America were confirmatory of our late intelligence with the exception of the capture of Savannah. There were details which show Sherman’s march to have been one of the most brilliant and successful movements in history. The victory of Thomas is also more decisive than had been represented. The rebellion staggers under these blows. I also received a note from Mr Erickson giving a rather strong favorable report of Mary’s condition. Her system is coming up, he things, under the effect of the change of air. Her wound is now decidedly healing. Let us be grateful. My heart was lighter all day. I went into the city to worship, resuming my visits to different Churches. This time it was St Michael’s, Queenhithe. The interior a plain, old fashioned design of Wren, with little or no ornament— A gallery opposite the altar, and high oaken pews of the ancient roomy sort. A little carved work around the doors, pulpit and panels. A great deal of light as usual with all Wren’s designs. On the whole, cheerful in all but the absence of worshippers. The attendance very small. A row of round windows above, with stained glass. The preacher discoursed of the new year as opening a way to repentance and amendment, but he was rapid in his delivery as if he felt conscious he was having few listening ears. In the evening, a walk, and after dinner visits from Mr Lampson and Mr Alward.174