Chapter IV: Part 4

In the Beginning of the last year I was in Deerfield, in Cumberland County New-Jersey, with the Rev'd Mr Green; Under him I studied the Hebrew-Language and Divinity. I left the college the last of September 1772. After having setled my business at Home, I entered upon the Study of Divinity with the Rev'd Andrew Hunter; I was with him about a Month, and on the first of December I went to Mr _Green_ with a design to acquaint myself with the Hebrew Tongue; he put me to the Grammar, which I learn'd through, and read some Chapters in the Psalter in the Course of the Winter: In Divinity, he advised me to read Ridgeleys body of Divinity for a System: And he gave me several separate treatisses on Repentance, Regeneration, Faith, &c, & towards spring gave me subjects to consider in the Sermon-Way. Yet how barren am I still? It is an arduous task to bring the Mind to close application; & still greater to lay up and retain useful Knowledge. I continued with Mr _Green_ & pursued my studies, I hope with some Success till August 1773. when I was solicited by Dr _Witherspoon_ to go into _Virginia_ & teach in a Gentlemans Family--The Offer seem'd profitable; I was encouraged by the Dr and was to have his Recommendation--I had likewise myself a strong inclination to go--Yet I was in great Doubt, & Wholly undetermined for some Weeks, because many of my friends, and some of my near Relations opposed my leaving Home, and all seem'd utterly unwilling to advise to go--It is time, according to the Course of my Life they said that I was settling to some constant Employment, and they told me I ought especially to enter with as great speed as convenient into that plan of Life for which I have in particular had my Education--That Virginia is sickly--That the People there are profane, and exceeding wicked--That I shall read there no Calvinistic Books, nor hear any Presbyterian Sermons--That I must keep much Company, and therefore spend as much, very probably much more Money than my Salary--These considerations unsettled for a while my mind--On the other hand I proposed to myself the following advantages by going--A longer opportunity for Study than my friends would willingly allow me If I should remain at home--A more general acquaintance with the manners of Mankind; and a better Knowledge of the Soil, & Commerce of these neighbouring Provinces--And a more perfect acquaintance with the Doctrines, & method of Worship in the established Church in these Colonies, & especially with the Conduct of the Clergy of which there have been so many bad reports--All these however when I had laid them together, seem'd to overbear the others, so that I determined at last to break through and go!--Here now I am in a strange Province; But I am under no more nor stronger temptations to any kind of vice, perhaps not so great as at Cohansie,--unless sometimes when I am solicited to dance I am forc'd to blush, for my Inability--I have the opportunity of living with Credit perfectly retired--in a well regulated family--With a man of Sense--May God help me to walk in his fear & Gloryfy his Name!--

_Monday 3d._

Last Evening, by Miss Prissy, I was complimented with an Invitation from Mr _Turburville_ to Dine with Him tomorrow--Squire _Lee_[109] is as Miss Prissy told me, preparing to make a splendid _Ball_, which is to last four or five Days; we are to be invited!--But I must stay at Home and read _Salust_--Mr Carter is at Richmond-Court, which is held monthly here in every County. In the Evening Mr Warden, a young Scotch Lawyer came home with him. I spent the Evening in the Parlour--After Supper when I was call'd upon for my Tost I mentioned with Pleasure Miss _Betsy Beaty_.

[109] Richard Lee of "Lee Hall."

_Teusday 4._

Rose by eight--Mr _Warden_ breakfasted with us. Miss Prissy befor Breakfast, as it is her practising Day, gave us sundry Tunes on the _Forte Piano_. I kept the children while twelve then as we were to dine out, I dismiss'd them till morning, and prepar'd to ride--Mrs Carter, Miss Sylla, and Miss Betsy rode in the Chariot, and set off about half after twelve with three waiting men--Mr Carter, Ben, and myself, waited, & left Home by half after one, we rode on Horse back, and waited on ourselves--It was two o-Clock when we got to Mr Turburvilles where we were to dine--We found there two Gentlemen, with their Wives, and one of them had also a Son & Daughter Mr Booth also came in a short time after us; So that there dined to day with Mr Turburville to day besides his usual Family thirteen Persons.--And if I mention the Waiting Men With the Carriages they were twenty. We had an Elegant Dinner, but it did not in any thing exceed what is every day at Mr _Carters_ Table.

--We all returned Home before Dark--In the Evening the Colonel is busy in transposing Music, I have not been at any house since I left Home, which, from the appearance of its Situation, and the Economy of the Family, or any other apparent Convenience, I would so soon choose to reside in as a tutor, as the one in which it is my lot to be placed--The Family is most agreeable! Mr Carter is sensible judicious, much given to retirement & Study; his Company, & conversation are always profitable--His main Studies are _Law_ & _Music_, the latter of which seems to be his darling Amusement--It seems to nourish, as well as entertain his mind! And to be sure he has a nice well judging Ear, and has made great advances in the Theory and Practice of music--

Mrs _Carter_ is prudent, always cheerful, never without Something pleasant, a remarkable Economist, perfectly acquainted (in my Opinion) with the good-management of Children, intirely free from all foolish and unnecessary fondness, and is also well acquainted (for She has always been used) with the formality and Ceremony which we find commonly in high Life--Ben, the eldest, is a youth of genius: of a warm impetuous Disposition; desirous of acquiring Knowledge, docile, vastly inquisitive & curious in mercantile, and mechanical Matters, is very fond of Horsses, and takes great pleasure in exercising them--Bob, the other Brother, is By no means destitute of capacity, As Mr Marshal who was his last Tutor has asserted, & as many now suppose: He is extremely volatile & unsettled in his temper, which makes it almost wholly impossible to fix him for any time to the same thing--On which account he has made but very little advancement in any one Branch of Study, and this is attributed to Barrenness of Genius--He is slovenly, clumsy, very fond of Shooting, of Dogs, of Horses, But a very stiff untoward _Rider_, good natur'd, pleased with the Society of persons much below his Family, and Estate, and tho' quick and wrathful in his temper, yet he is soon moderated, & easily subdued--Harry the Nephew, is rather stoical, sullen, or saturnine in his make. He is obstinate, tho' Steady, and makes a slow uniform advance in his Learning, he is vastly kind to me, but in particular to my Horse, of his health or Indisposition--Miss _Priscilla_, the eldest Daughter about 16, is steady, studious, docile, quick of apprehension, and makes good progress in what She undertakes; If I could with propriety continue in the Family, I should require no stronger Inducement than the Satisfaction I should receive by seeing this young Lady become perfectly acquainted with any thing I propose so soon as I communicate it to her, but the situation of my affairs makes it out of my power to stay longer than a year; She is small of her age, has a mild winning Presence, a sweet obliging Temper, never swears, which is here a distinguished virtue, dances finely, plays well on key'd Instruments, and is upon the whole in the first Class of the female Sex.

_Nancy_ the Second, is not without some few of those qualities which are by some (I think with great ill nature, and with little or no truth) said to belong intirely to the fair Sex. I mean great curiosity, Eagerness for superiority, Ardor in friend ship, But bitterness and rage where there is enmity--She is not constant in her disposition, nor diligent nor attentive to her business--But She has her excellencies, She is cheerful, tender in her Temper, easily managed by perswasion & is never without what seems to have been a common Gift of Heaven, to the _fair-Sex_, the "_Copia Verborum_," or readiness of Expression!--She is only beginning to play the _Guitar_, She understands the Notes well, & is a graceful Dancer.

_Fanny_ next, is in her Person, according to my Judgment, the Flower in the Family--She has a strong resemblance of her _Mama_ who is an elegant, beautiful Woman--Miss Fanny seems to have a remarkable Sedateness, & simplicity in her countenance, which is always rather chearful than melancholy; She has nothing with which we can find Fault in her Person, but has something in the Features of her Face which insensibly pleases us, & always when She is in Sight draws our Attention, & much the more because there seems to be for every agreeable Feature a correspondent Action which improves & adorns it. Betsy next is young, quiet, and obedient--Harriot is bold, fearless, noisy and lawless; always merry, almost never displeased; She seems to have a Heart easily moved by the force of Music; She has learned many Tunes & can strike any Note, or Succession of Notes perfectly with the Flute or Harpsichord, and is never wearied with the sound of Music either vocal or _Instrumental_.

These are the Persons who are at present under my direction, & whose general Character I have very imperfectly attempted to describe.

_Wednesday 5._

Rose at Seven. The morning very stormy. _Bob_ & _Nancy_ before Breakfast had a quarrel--Bob called Nancy a Lyar; Nancy upbraided Bob, on the other Hand, with being often flog'd by their Pappa; often by the Masters in College; that he had stol'n Rum, & had got drunk; & that he used to run away &c--These Reproaches when they were set off with Miss Nancys truely feminine address, so violently exasperated _Bob_ that he struck her in his Rage--I was at the time in my Chamber; when I enter'd the Room each began with loud and heavy complaints, I put them off however with sharp admonitions for better Behaviour.

The morning was so extremely stormy that I declin'd going to Breakfast--All the others went my Breakfast was sent over--Immediately after Breakfast Ben came over with a Message from Mr _Carter_, that he desired me to correct _Bob_ severely immediately--Bob when I went into School sat quiet in the corner, & looked sullen, and penitent; I gave some orders to the Children, and went to my Room.--I sent for Bob--He came crying--I told him his Fathers Message; he confess'd himself guilty--I sent him to call up _Harry_--He came--I talked with them both a long Time recommended Diligence, & good Behaviour, but concluded by observing that I was obliged to comply with Mr Carter's request; I sent _Harry_ therefore for some Whips.--_Bob_ and poor I remained trembling in the chamber (for Bob was not more uneasy than I it being the first attempt of the kind I have ever made)--The Whips came!--I ordered Bob to strip!--He desired me to whip Him in his hand in Tears--I told him no--He then patiently, & with great deliberation took of his Coat and laid it by--I took him by the hand and gave him four or five smart twigs; he cring'd, & bawld & promis'd--I repeated then about eight more, & demanded and got immediately his solemn promise for peace among the children, & Good Behaviour in general--I then sent him down--He conducts himself through this day with great Humility, & unusual diligence, it will be fine if it continues. At noon I went over to Dinner, but it was storming, & continues so bad that I choose rather to go without Supper than venture out in the Storm.

_Thursday 6._

To Day about twelve _Bob_ & _Prissy_ & _Nancy_ went in the Chariot to Stratford, to attend the Dancing-School--Mr Taylor,[110] the Colonels principal Overseer dined with us--After School in the Evening, I sat with _Betsy_ & _Fanny_ while they sung me many songs, When they had done I waited on them Home, & spent the Evening with Mr & Mrs _Carter_.

[110] The account books of Robert Carter show that William Taylor was at this period overseer of three of Carter's plantations or "quarters," called Dicks, Morgans and Rutters.

_Fryday 7._

The morning cold, muddy and drisly--Our School seems still, and vacant. _Betsy_ & _Fanny_ at their Leisure are constantly knitting with small smoth stiff straws, in imitation of their Sister _Sylla_, who knits sometimes. The Colonel told me last Evening that he proposes to make the vacant End of our School-Room, Where Dr Frank lived a Concert-Room, to hold all his instruments of Music--As he proposes to bring up from _Williamsburg_ his _Organ_, & to remove the _Harpsichord_, _Harmonica_, _Forte-piano_, _Guittar_, _Violin_, & _German-Flutes_, & make it a place for Practice, as well as Entertainment.

This afternoon _Dennis_, a Boy of about twelve Years old, one of the Waiters at Table, as he was standing in the front Door which is vastly huge & heavy; the Door flew up, and drew off the Skin & Flesh from his middle Finger caught between, took off the first Joint, and left the Bone of the greater part of the Rest of the Finger naked.

_Saturday 8._

Catechised the Children, and dismiss'd them about ten. The morning pleasant--Rode before Dinner to Mr Blains Store--Was introduced to Dr _Thompson_,[111] Mr _Balantine_,[112] Mr _Carr_ a young Scotch-Man Clerk, to Mr Blain; dined with Mr Blain. Parson _Smith_, his Wife, & her Sister were there--Colonel Washington, his Wife, & their Daughter Miss Jenny a young Lady of few words, a sanguine Countenance, and as to her Size, something below what Ladies call elegant; neat but not _flashy_ in her Dress; Some of her Dress I admired because I have seen _Laura_ in the like, yit strongly shewed me that it is not Dress alone I admire in Her. All these had been at a Widding in the country and were returning--In Dr _Thomsons_ Room there was hanging against the Wall a Skeleton!--Balantine, either to shew himself a true full-blooded Buck, or out of mere wantonness & pastime turned the Bones (as they were fixed together with Wires) into many improper and indecent postures; but this officious industry met with such reception from the company as it Justly merited, and as I wish'd might happen; for they gave visible signs of their contempt of his Behaviour--About Six in the Evening the Chariot returned with _Bob_, Miss _Prissy_ & _Nancy_ from the Dance at _Stratford_--They brought News as follows: Miss Prissy told us, that they had an elegant Dance on the Whole; that Colonel Philip Lee, where they met to Dance, was on Fryday, at the Wedding of which I made mention Just now; that Mr _Christian_ the Master danced several Minuets, prodigiously beautiful; that Captain Grigg (Captain of an English Ship) danced a Minuet with her; that he hobled most dolefully, & that the whole Assembly laughed!--_Bob_ told us that there was a Race between Mr ---- And Colonels Horses--that they run a Mile, & that _Dottrell_[113] belonging to Mr ---- won the Race;--_Bob_ told me in private, after we were alone in my Room, that Colonel Lee took an Opportunity, & asked him in the Hearing of a large company at Supper, what sort of _Fellow_ he is whom your _Papa_ had provided for your _Tutor_--_Bob_ told me that for answer he Informed him I was good and agreeable--That Miss Jenny Corbin, (a young Lady with whom I have had the greatest Opportunity of being acquainted, of any young Lady in Virginia) gave him so favourable an Account of my Behaviour, that he was pleased to say He should be glad to see me at his House, & of my company--But after having heard this much, I shall esteem myself pardonable, & shall always think it proper to refuse without thanks his warmest Invitations; & will plead for my excuse nothing else than mere inclination.

[111] Thomas Thompson was a well known physician of Westmoreland County. Robert Carter retained the services of Thompson for the blacks on his plantations for a number of years.

[112] Probably James Balendine of the firm referred to in the Carter account books as "Messrs. James Balendine & Co."

[113] "Dotterell" was an English blooded horse that had been bred by Sir John Pennington. He was regarded as the swiftest in that country with the exception of one, called "Eclipse." Dotterell had been imported into the colony in 1766 by Philip Ludwell Lee of "Stratford" in Westmoreland County.

In the Evening about seven o-Clock it snowed exceeding fast til Eight when it ceased, it being the second Snow we had this winter here, At Supper we had much conversation about the Dance. Mrs Carter & myself, sat while ten and the Colonel read philosophy.

_Sunday 9._

The Morning very cold--None from our Family went to church; _Bob_ beg'd of me to let him go, I refused him; he then asked to go and dine with Mr Turburville, I gave him no liberty.--I wrote to-Day a letter to _Laura_, I wish it _speed_ & _Success_--I wrote also a letter to Mr _Bryan_ in Baltimore; Another to the Gentleman who keeps the "Fountain Inn" in _Baltimore_; & one to Dr _John Beaty_--_Bob_ returned in the Evening after having stole away and spent the day at Mr _Turburvill's_ with a Note to his Papa from Squire _Lee_, in which Mr Carter & his Family are invited to the Ball at his House on Monday the 17th Instant But I must stay alone.

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO ELIZABETH BEATTY]

Nominy-Hall. Virginia. Jan: 9th: 1774.

TO LAURA.

The long Distance there is between us, & Uncertainty of the Conveyance, makes it improper for me to write what I wish to tell you. I may not, however, neglect to acquaint you that you still possess the largest earthly Share of my Regard; & that my Fidelity towards you is unshaken & inviolable.

I continue this Winter, by the Kindness of Heaven, in perfect Health; & expect to return by the last of April next, if no Accident comes between, when I promise myself Madam, much Pleasure, much Peace in your Company.

The Family in which I live, is so kind, & suitable to my Wish, that I would gladly continue in it--Or, at least, provide some well-qualified Person to succeed me since I must by previous Agreement, shortly leave it, as I do not propose to let my coming here put off my entering on the Great-World.

If I shall be so happy as to meet with you in the Spring, I will tell you many curious Occurrences of this Winter; but none with greater Truth than that I have been your constant Admirer.

PHILIP. V. FITHIAN.

[JOURNAL]

_Monday 10th_

The Morning very cold--Dined with us to-day Mr _Sanford_ a Captain of a Sloop which trades out of _Potowmack_ to _Norfolk_--I wrote out some Exercises for _Bob_ & _Harry_--In the Evening the Colonel began with a small Still to distill some Brandy from a Liquor made of Pisimmonds. I set Ben this Evening to writing. I likewise gave _Catalines_ Speech in _Salust_ to commit to memory in Latin, which he is to pronounce Extempore. In the Evening I borrowed of _Ben Carter_ 15s.--I have plenty of Money with me, but it is in Bills of Philadelphia currency & will not pass at all here.

_Teusday 11._

The morning very cold--As cold I think, and the Frost seems to be as intense & powerful as I have ever known it either at Cohansie or at Princeton. This morning I put Ben to construe some Greek, he has yet no Testament, I gave him therefore Esops Fables in Greek, and Latin. I also took out of the Library, and gave him to read Gordon, upon Geography. Ben seem'd scared with his Greek Lesson, he swore, & wished for Homer that he might kick Him, as he had been told Homer invented Greek.

_Wednesday 12._

I gave _Sam_ Mr Carters Barber, for shaving & dressing me, & for mending my Shoes, two pisterenes, which pass here for half a Crown--The morning is serene, pleasant, but cold yet. Miss _Hariot_ this morning being over curious tasted some Mercury Mixture in Mr _Randolph's_ Room, it made her very sick; I was frighted, the family was frighted! she puked, & threw it off her Stomach, & was soon relieved--

I gave _Martha_ who makes my Bed, for a Christmas Box, a _Bit_, which is a pisterene cut into two equal parts--I gave to John also, who waits at Table & calls me to Supper a _Bit_. So that My whole Expence to-Day has been _3/9_. Mrs Carter invited me to Day to go to the Ball, I excused myself, & declined it.

_Thursday 13._

Mr Cunningham came before Noon to skait--At twelve we all went down to Mr Carters Millpond--none had skaits but Mr Cunningham--we diverted ourselves on the Ice til two, when we went up to dinner--Immediately after Dinner Mr _Carter_ Miss _Prissy_ & _Nancy_ rode out to Mr _Lanes_.--Mr _Cunningham_ staid the Night, Prissy play'd for us--She has since I came made great advances--

_Fryday 14._

The morning very foggy, & warmer--I gave to Tom the Coach-man who cured my Horse two _pisterenes_ & half a _Bit_, which is two & ninepence 2/9. Mr Cunningham breakfasted with us--When I went into School there came a complaint from Miss _Sally Stanhope_[114] of _Bob_ that he was rude, swore, & quarrell'd at Breakfast, poor untoward, unfortunate Boy he gives me great Trouble--

[114] Miss Sarah Stanhope was the housekeeper at "Nomini Hall."

_Saturday 15._

I rose at seven--The morning fair the ground muddy--_Ben_ asked me to ride with him to Mr Blains Store I chose rather to stay at Home--Ben is preparing for the approaching Ball--Bob urged me to let him go to Mr Lees, but he is so unruly & mischeivous when abroad that I was obliged to refuse him the liberty of going. I spent some hours to Day with the Girls when they were practising Music on the Guitar, & Forte-piano, Priscilla plays her tunes true and exceeding finely--In the Evening _Ben_ returned from Mr Blains--He told me the Store was thronged with company--Sup'd on chocolate, & hoe-Cake, so called because baked on a Hoe before the fire--The Colonel and his Daughter busy at Music.

_Sunday 16._

The morning frosty & cold--_Ben_, _Bob_, _Harry_, & Mr _Randolph_ went to Church--I stay at Home; Read Pictete--I feel very desirous of seeing Home: of hearing good Mr Hunter Preach; of seeing my dear Brothers & Sister; Indeed the very soil itself would be precious to me!--I am shut up in my chamber; I read a while, then walk to the North window, & look over Potowmack through Maryland towards Home; then throw myself down into my Chair again & console myself that I have every necessary, & convenient Accommodation here, which I should have; nay much more than I should allow myself were I at Home. I am contented--This whole world is only a Point almost unnoticeable, when compared with the numerous _Systems_ which compose the _universe_, & yet they all are under the particular Direction & Government of _Almighty God_; How insignificant therefore is it for me and how foolish to be uneasy, & solicitous whether I live in _Cohansie_, in _Princeton_, or in _Virgininia_; Or in _America_, or in _Europe_, so long as I am still supported, & upheld by the Divine Agency!--I am fully satisfied--Guide me, propitious Heaven! Help me to Glorify my God; To honour the holy Religion which I profess; & If I shall be fitted, & introduced to the Ministry, may I still go on and be of advantage to my fellow Mortals!--

Evening, The Boys are returned; _Bob_ brings me the _parsons_ Compliments; Mr _Cunninghams_; & that Miss Corbin enquired If I was well!--Bob [also] informed me that the _Parson_, Mr _Blain_, _Cunningham_, _Balantine_, & others are to come to Captain _Turburvilles_ Mill-Pond to Skate before they go to the Ball--

_Monday 17._

At Breakfast the Colonel gave orders to the Boys concerning their conduct this Day, & through the course of the Ball--He allows them to go; to stay all this Night; to bring him an Account of all the company at the Ball; & to return tomorrow Evening--All the morning is spent in Dressing.--Mr Carter & Mrs Carter pressed me to go; But, mindful of my Promise when I left Home, I stay and enjoy myself in quiet.--I give the Children a Holiday to Day--I gave Dennis the Waiter half a Bit a Present--Mrs _Carter_, Miss _Prissy_, & _Nancy_ dressed splendidly set away from Home at two.

_Teusday 18._

Mrs _Carter_, & the young Ladies came Home last Night from the Ball, & brought with them Mrs _Lane_, they tell us there were upwards of Seventy at the Ball; forty one Ladies; that the company was genteel; & that Colonel _Harry Lee_,[115] from _Dumfries_, & his Son _Harrey_ who was with me at College, were also there; Mrs Carter made this an argument, and it was a strong one indeed, that to-day I must dress & go with her to the Ball--She added also that She Desired my Company in the Evening when she should come Home as it would be late--After considering a while I consented to go, & was dressed--we set away from Mr Carters at two; Mrs _Carter_ & the young Ladies in the Chariot, Mrs Lane in a Chair, & myself on Horseback--As soon as I had handed the Ladies out, I was saluted by Parson _Smith_; I was introduced into a small Room where a number of Gentlemen were playing Cards, (the first game I have seen since I left Home) to lay off my Boots Riding-Coat&c--Next I was directed into the Dining-Room to see Young Mr _Lee_; He introduced me to his Father--With them I conversed til Dinner, which came in at half after four. The Ladies dined first, when some Good order was preserved; when they rose, each nimblest Fellow dined first--The Dinner was as elegant as could be well expected when so great an Assembly were to be kept for so long a time.--For Drink, there was several sorts of Wine, good Lemon Punch, Toddy, Cyder, Porter &c.--About Seven the Ladies & Gentlemen begun to dance in the Ball-Room--first Minuets one Round; Second Giggs; third Reels; And last of All Country-Dances; tho' they struck several Marches occasionally--The Music was a French-Horn and two Violins--The Ladies were Dressed Gay, and splendid, & when dancing, their Silks & Brocades rustled and trailed behind them!--But all did not join in the Dance for there were parties in Rooms made up, some at Cards; some drinking for Pleasure; some toasting the Sons of america; some singing "Liberty Songs" as they call'd them, in which six, eight, ten or more would put their Heads near together and roar, & for the most part as unharmonious as an affronted--Among the first of these Vociferators was a young Scotch-Man, Mr _Jack Cunningham_; he was nimis bibendo appotus; noisy, droll, waggish, yet civil in his way & wholly inoffensive--I was solicited to dance by several, Captain Chelton, Colonel Lee, Harry Lee, and others; But George Lee,[116] with great Rudeness as tho' half drunk, asked me why I would come to the Ball & neither dance nor play Cards? I answered him shortly, (for his Impudence moved my resentment) that my Invitation to the Ball would Justify my Presence; & that he was ill qualified to direct my Behaviour who made so indifferent a Figure himself--Parson Smiths, & Parson Gibberns Wives danced, but I saw neither of the Clergymen either dance or game[117]--At Eleven Mrs Carter call'd upon me to go, I listned with gladness to the summons & with Mrs Lane in the Chariot we rode Home, the Evening sharp and cold!--I handed the Ladies out, waited on them to a warm Fire, then ran over to my own Room, which was warm and had a good Fire; oh how welcome! Better this than to be at the Ball in some corner nodding, and awaked now & then with a midnight Yell!--In my Room by half after twelve; & exceeding happy that I could break away with Reputation.--

[115] Colonel Henry Lee of "Leesylvania."

[116] Apparently George Fairfax Lee of "Mount Pleasant."

[117] Parson Giberne was not so fortunate in escaping criticism on other occasions. Fithian, himself, notes his gambling several times, and the Reverend Jonathan Boucher, Landon Carter and Robert Wormeley Carter all comment upon it in their journals.

_Wednesday 19._

Rose at Nine while the Bell was ringing--Breakfasted at ten, Mr _Carter_ and I alone, the Ladies yet in Bed--I gave the Children the third Holiday; _Bob_ _Ben_ & _Harry_ are yet at the Dance--Mrs Carter declines going to Day, I took a Walk out before Dinner, & with my Pen-knife carved _Laura's_ much admired Name, upon a smooth beautiful Beech-Tree--Towards Evening Mrs Lane left us & rode home--_Bob_ came Home about six, but so sleepy that he is actually stupified!--

_Thursday 20._

_Ben_ came Home late in the Night--This morning he looks fatigued out. We began to study to Day but all seem sleepy and dull. Dined with us to-day Mr _Lee_ a Gentleman from Augusta County, who has lately been to the Settlements on Ohio.

Evening I began some Verses on Miss Carter for a present at the approaching Valantine[118]--But I drew the Picture from Laura.

[118] See this valentine in Appendix, pp. 230-233.

_Fryday 21._

All seem tolerably recruited this morning; we hear, the company left the Ball last Evening, quite wearied out; tho' the Colonel intreated them to stay the proposed Time.

To Day about twelve came to Mr _Carters_ Captain _John Lee_, a Gentleman who seems to copy the Character of _Addisons Will Wimble_. When I was on my way to this place I saw him up in the country at Stafford; he was then just sallying out on his Winters Visit, & has got now so far as here, he stays, as I am told about eight, or ten Weeks in the year at his own House, the remaining part he lives with his waiting Man on his Friends.--

_Saturday 22._

Captain Lee with us to Day--The Weather cold; I set in my Room all Day working at my Verses for Miss Carter.

_Sunday 23._

None went to Church on account of the Cold--Afternoon the Sun shone fair--I took my Horse & rode about a Mile & returned--Captain _Lee_ left us this Day.

_Monday 24._

Still very cold snows some--Dined with us Colonel _Frank_ L. _Lee_,[119] & Colonel _Harrison_ of Maryland--Miss _Nancy_ unwel of a cold.--There are great Professions of Liberty here expressed in Songs Toasts, &c. Yesterday News came of the Arrival of Ships with Tea; into _Boston_, _New-york_, _Philadelphia_. & of the New-Yorkers burning the House of his Excellency Governor _Tryon_. for having said that, if orders concerning the Tea had been transmitted to him he would have landed it tho' under the mouths of the Cannon!--Gentlemen here in general applaud & honour our Northern Colonies for so manly, & patriotic Resistance!--

[119] Francis Lightfoot Lee (1734-1797) of "Menokin" in Richmond County was the fourth son of President Thomas Lee of "Stratford." His wife was Rebecca Tayloe, a daughter of Colonel John Tayloe of "Mount Airy." Lee served as a member of the House of Burgesses from Loudoun County and later from Richmond County.

_Teusday 25._

Still sharp & cold--Miss Nancy much indisposed with a sore throat--Dined with us Mr _Cunningham_. Toasts the _King_, _Queen_, _Governor_ & _Colonel_, of _Virginia_. Northern Sons of Liberty. & a good price for our comodities.--This Day the Person who carried my Letters to Baltimore returned without any Letters or Intelligence.

_Wednesday 26._

The weather this morning seems to have moderated--Miss _Nancy_ is poorly but better--In the Evening I ran a Foot Race with Ben & Harry fo exercise, & a prize of ten Apples to the winner. We ran from the School-House round the stable, & Kitchen & Great-House which Distance is about 70 Rod--I came out first about One Rod; but almost wholly spent; I went to my Chamber and lay down, sick, fainty, & quite distressed. I puked several times; after having rested a while, however, I revived & went well to Supper, & Spend the Evening in Writing. At Supper from the conversation I learned that the slaves in this Colony never are married, their Lords thinking them improper Subjects for so valuable an Institution!--

_Thursday 27._

The morning mild Serene and moderate--The Colonel is making preparations for a Journey to _Anapolis_, where he Designs next Month. In the Evening, (for here they call the time between Dinner and day-light-End Evening,) He & Mrs Carter shewed me their House; the original Design, the present form; & what is yet to be Done--Miss _Nancy_ came down stairs to Day--

_Fryday 28._

Snows this morning Briskly--Ben in a great Fever lest the Weather shall stop him from a Ride he has alloted for tomorrow--At twelve the Snow ceased, Depth about five Inches--I corrected _Harry_ for the first time to-day for expressing himself indecently to _Prissy_.

_Saturday 29._

_Ben_ is preparing himself to go out--while we were dining about three it began to Snow briskly--After Dinner when I went over to my Room I was very much surprised to find my Room full of Smoke & Flame!--A kind Providence only prevented the total Loss of our School-House & all its Furniture, & our own Clothes Books &c!--A Coal of Fire had by accident (as the Hearth is very narrow) fall'n on the floor, it took fire, & when I entered it was burning rapidly--It had burnt three Boards about eight Inches from the Hearth, & most certainly in a short time would have been inextinguishable--I put it out however speedily, & had all the fire removed--

The Weather is as wintry here in every Respect as I have ever known it in New-Jersey--Mr Carter has a Cart & three pair of Oxen which every Day bring in four Loads of Wood, Sundays excepted, & yet these very severe Days we have none to spare; And indeed I do not wonder, for in the _Great House_, _School_ House, Kitchen, &c. there are twenty Eight steady fires! & most of these are very Large!--After Supper, when all had retired but Mrs Carter, Mr Carter & Myself, the Conversation being on serious Matters, Mr Carter observed that he much dislikes the common method of making Burying Yards round Churches, & having them almost open to every Beast--He would have them at some small distance from the Church, neatly & strongly inclosed, and the Graves kept up decent, & plain, but would have no splendid, nor magnificent Monument, nor even Stone to say "Hic jacet."--He told us he proposes to make his own Coffin & use it for a Chest til its proper use shall be required--That no Stone, nor Inscription to be put over him--And that he would choose to be laid under a shady Tree where he might be undisturbed, & sleep in peace & obscurity--He told us, that with his own hands he planted, & is with great diligence raising a _Catalpa_-Tree at the Head of his Father who lies in his Garden--Mrs Carter beg'd that She might have a Stone, with this only for a Monument, "Here lies _Ann Tasker Carter_."[120] with these things for my consideration I left them about ten and went to my cold Room, & was hurried soon to Bed; Not however without reflecting on the importance of our preparation for this great Change!

[120] Frances Ann Tasker Carter died in 1787 and was buried in the family graveyard at "Nomini Hall." Her husband, who died seventeen years later, was buried in Baltimore.

_Sunday 30._

Very stormy this morning with Rain and Hail which instantly freezes; the trees hang bending with Ice, & the ways are all glassy & slippery--None think of going to Church this day--Mrs Carter & I after Breakfast had a long conversation on religious affairs--Particularly on differing Denominations of Protestants--She thinks the Religion of the established Church without Exception the best of any invented or practised in the world. & indeed she converses with great propriety on these things, & discovers her very extensive Knowledge; She allows the Difference between the Church, & Presbyterianism to be only exceeding small, & wishes they were both intirely united! Through this whole Day it storms but the Evening is terrible! almost an Inundation of Rain; The wind violent at North-East; The Snow, Hail, and Rain freezing together on the Ground! This Evening the Negroes collected themselves into the School-Room, & began to play the _Fiddle_, & dance--I was in Mr Randolphs Room;--I went among them, _Ben_, & _Harry_ were of the company--_Harry_ was dancing with his Coat off--I dispersed them however immediately.

_Monday 31._

Excessive sloppy--Miss _Nancy_ came to School to Day--I finished my verses which are to be presented as a Valantine to Miss _Prissy Carter_.

_Teusday February 1st 1774._

Fair & mild but vastly muddy--About twelve Squire _Lee_ & young _Harry Lee_, who was a College-Fellow, came to see us. They staid while about five. The Toasts at Dinner were as usual--The Colonel & Mrs Carter seem Much pleased with Harry, & with his manner.

_Wednesday 2._

The weather vastly fine. At twelve o-Clock the Colonel & Miss _Prissy_ rode out for an airing--_Prissy_ This day began Multiplication. We had also a large elegant Writing Table brought to us, so high that the Writers must stand.

_Thursday 3._

Prissy, & Nancy practising music--We had last night Thunder, Lightning, & a very great shower.

_Fryday 4._

I put Ben this day into virgil--We had our Room mended & came into it--at twelve I rode out to Mr Taylors about two Miles, in again by Dinner-Time--Dined with us one Mrs Hut--This Evening, in the School-Room, which is below my Chamber, several Negroes & _Ben,_ & _Harry_ are playing on a _Banjo_ & dancing!--

_Saturday 5:_

I spent the morning in my Room, _Ben_, & _Bob_ are gone out. About twelve came on a visit Mr _Goodlett_, & _Saml Fantleroy_;[121] I spent the remainder of the day with them.--At Dinner when call'd upon for a Toast I gave Miss _Sally Hollinshead_. Mr Goodlett told me he has had an Invitation, to accept a School in _Leeds_,[122] a town on the River Rapahannock, about 25 Miles from this up & across the Country.

[121] Samuel Griffin Fauntleroy (1759-1826) was the son of Moore Fauntleroy of "The Cliffs" in Richmond County.

[122] Leedstown was a thriving center of trade and shipping. It had been incorporated in 1742.

_Sunday 6._

I rode to Church; Mrs Carter & Miss Prissy & Nancy were out--Mr Smith gave us a Sermon 14 Minutes long on Charite--But poor Fellow he seem'd Cold as his Subject! Mr Fantleroy; & Mr Goodlett dined with us and set off for Home as soon as we rose from Dinner--This day two Negro Fellows the Gardiner & cooper, wrangled; & at last fought; It happened hard however for the Cooper, who is likely to lose one of his Eyes by that Diabolical Custom of gouging which is in common practise among those who fight here--Evening Ben returned; he has been into Northumland to see one Mr _Jones_. Mr Goodlett, to Day, shewed me a piece of his own performance, a paraphrase on part of the Book of Job, done in Lattin-Verse.

_Monday 7._

The Day pleasant, & seems to have some appearance of Spring--Mr Blain call'd this Affternoon, & told us that by a Letter he hears Lady _Dunmore_ is arrived from New-York[123]--and that many good & wealthy Families arrived in the same Ship--It is indeed amazing, & it will soon astonish the whole World, to consider the Rapidity of the growth of these Colonies--

[123] John Murray, Earl of Dunmore, served as Governor of the colony from 1771 to 1775. Lady Dunmore did not arrive in Virginia to join him until the latter part of February of 1774.

At Supper, Mr Carter informed me it is his purpose to manifacture 30.000 Bushels of wheat in his New-Mill which is yet scarcely finished.

_Teusday 8._

Before Breakfast _Nancy_ & _Fanny_ had a Fight about a Shoe Brush which they both wanted--Fanny pull'd off her Shoe & threw at Nancy, which missed her and broke a pane of glass of our School Room. they then enter'd upon close scratching &c. which methods seem instinctive in Women. Harry happen'd to be present & affraid lest he should be brought in, ran and informed me--I made peace, but with many threats--

Mrs Carter has ordered the Gardener to sew Lettice, & plant Peas this Day in the Garden.--

_Wednesday 9._

This day very blustry & cold--I gave Prissy a Coppy of Secretary-Hand, at her particular Request--

_Thursday 10._

We had the Virginia Gazette[124] to day in which the accounts concerning the destroying the Tea at Boston are confirm'd--& also an account of the Burning of the House of Governor Tryon. Dined with us Colonel _Frank Lee_; his Wife & Captain _John Lee_. Toasts after Dinner, the _King_. _Queen_. Absent Friends, Governor of Virginia, & his Lady just arrived, & Success to American Trade & Commerce

[124] The _Virginia Gazette_ was founded by William Parks at Williamsburg in 1736. This journal continued to issue until 1778. In 1766 a rival sheet bearing the same name was established and was published in Williamsburg until 1776. In 1775 a third _Virginia Gazette_ had been established which continued to issue until 1780.

_Fryday 11._

The Company staid all Night--at Breakfast the conversation was on a terrible Distemper which is in this County at present; & which in Maryland last year about this time carried off hundreds, and is call'd the "_putrid Quinsy_." Mr Carter has a Man lying now dangerously ill of it!

What they do in the Disorder is, when the Inflamation is first observ'd, bleeding; then give the _Bark_ & _Salt-petre_, or _Nitre_, and _Gargles_ to cleanse the mouth--

Our company left us before dinner--Last night I took Bob to my Room, after having in the course of the Day corrected him thrice, & reasoned with him concerning the impropriety of his Behaviour; at the same time I acquainted him with my final resolution to send him over for correction every Day to his Papa's Study, which had so strong an Effect on him (as all the Children are in remarkable Subjection to their Parents) that he firmly pomised to attend to my advice, & thro' this Day has been punctual to his word.

I spent the evening with the Family to hear the music. For every evening Prissy & Nancy play the whole Evening for practice & besides every Week half of Teusday, Thursday, & Saturday. We were informed that the _Carter_ who goes with the Team is ill of the sore Throat!--

_Saturday 12._

After having dismised the School I went over to Mr Carters Study--We conversed on many things, & at length on the College of William & Mary at _Williamsburg_. He informed me that it is in such confusion at present, & so badly directed, that he cannot send his Children with propriety there for Improvement & useful Education--That he has known the Professors to play all Night at Cards in publick Houses in the City, and has often seen them drunken in the Street!--That the Charter of the College is vastly Extensive, & the yearly income sufficient to support a University being about 4.000£. Sterling.--That the Necessary Expence for each Scholar yearly is only 15£ Currency.

Two of the officers of the Institution, Mr Bracker, & Mr Henly[125] Clergymen are at present engaged in a paper War published weekly in the Williamsburg Gazette's.

[125] John Bracken served as minister of Bruton Parish Church at Williamsburg from 1773 to 1818. He also served for a period as master of the grammar school at the College of William and Mary, and for two years as president of the college. At this time Bracken had just incurred the bitter enmity of Samuel Henley, professor of divinity and moral philosophy at the college, who had hoped to secure the appointment given his rival. The two men aired their grievances in a long and acrimonious controversy carried on in the columns of the _Virginia Gazette_. Henley, a Tory, left the colony for England in 1775 and never returned. He later became principal of the East India College at Hertford.

Miss Fanny quite unwell of a Cold with a pain in her Breast. Evening Mrs Carter complain'd of a sore throat; and _Ben_ also, complains that his Throat is quite troublesome--Mr Randolph too is confin'd in his Room all day! We seem to be all sickning!--

_Sunday 13._

Things look better this morning Mrs Carter, & _Ben_ seem relieved, Mr Randolph, & Fanny are better. The morning very blustry with wind & Snow--None go to Church from here to day--In my Room I read _Pictete_.

_Monday 14._

Mr _Randolph_ this Morning happens to be Miss _Nancy's Valentine_; & Miss _Prissy_ mine,--The morning sharp & very cold--

_Teusday 15._

I have a call this morning from _Bob_ & _Harry_ for a Holiday, for Shrove Teusday; I shall dismiss them at twelve o-Clock. I gave Miss Carter my Verses for her Valentine, Dined with us Mrs _Ford_. I finished reading the first, & began the Second Volume of _Pictete_.

_Wednesday 16._

I happened last monday to offend _Prissy_, She retains her anger & seems peculiarly resentful!--_Ben_ agreed for half a Bit a Week to play the Flute every Night, or read, for me, twenty Minutes after I am in Bed.

_Thursday 17._

Prissy seems much affronted; The Cause was as follows Monday afternoon, by Chance I tapp'd her on the Head, & wholly in Jest; She seem'd vex'd, but Teusday morning which is her day for practice on the Forte-Piano, after Breakfast, I desir'd her to walk over to the School, she refused, & gave for an Excuse that She must begin to play--Both these things laid together were the cause of her resentment.

_Fryday 18._

The Weather pleasant and moderate--_Bob_, _Nancy_, & _Prissy_, are setting off this morning to the Dance, which is at Mr _Washingtons_[126]--

[126] At "Bushfield" on the Potomac River.

_Saturday 19._

at Dinner we were conversing on Reading, among many remarks the Colonel observed that, He would bet a Guinea that Mrs Carter reads more than the Parson of the parish! No panegyrick on the Gentleman? Mr Christian the Dancing Master, Came home with the young Ladies.

_Sunday 20._

Last Evening the virginia News-papers came; but nothing from the Northward.

Rode to Nomini Church; Parson Smith read Prayers, but it was too Cold a Day to give us a Sermon; After Service _Mr & Mrs Carter_, the Parson, his wife & Sister; Mr _Camel_ the Comptroler; _Ben_, _Bob_, Miss _Pierce_, Miss _Sanford_, and My self were invited to Colonel Washingtons to Dinner. His House has the most agreeable Situation, of any I have yet seen in Maryland or Virginia; the broad Potowmack, which they account between 7 and 8 Miles over, washes his Garden on the North. the River Nomini is within a stones throw on the West, a levil open Country on the East; a Lane of a mile & three quarters accurately measur'd. lies from the House South-East it has from the House the whole distance a uniform Descent, & at the Gate at the End of this Lane the Situation is just six feet lower than at the House--There are no Marshes near, which altogether make the place exceeding Description. The Roads are now miry & disagreeable.

_Monday 21._

Prissy seems again reconciled--Miss _Stanhope_ the Housekeeper is ill of a Rheumatism--They are begining to work in the Garden with vigor. Dined with us Docter _Franks_.

_Teusday 22._

Mr _Carter_ rode to the County-Court. I read to day several chapters in the Greek testament. Mr _Carter_ has given orders to his Hands to rigg, & fit his Schooner a Vessel of about 40 Tons for Business. Docter Franks with us yet. Mrs _Carter_ was taken ill last Evening & has not been out of her chamber to Day. Miss _Stanhope_ the Housekeeper is also confin'd to her Room with Rheumatic Pains.

_Wednesday. 23._

Mr _Carter_ has an invitation to dine at Lee-Hall to Day, which he accepts--before Dinner came in Miss _Corbin,_ & Miss _Booth_; two young Ladies pretty well gone in what we call the Bloom of Life; Mr Carter was out, Mrs Carter is ill, & Ben was not Drest; Bob & I therefore at Dinner must be Directors of the ceremonies at Table! But happily for me I have them at last all by heart--At five Bob & I had the Pleasure to walk home with them, (for they were on foot) to Assist them in Crossing the River Nomini which lies between us & Mr Turburville's. Evening Mrs Carter seems no better--Miss Sally came out of her Room--

_Thursday 24._

Frogs croaked last Evening. This morning the Birds of several kinds are singing; and some presages of Spring seem visible. Mrs Carter continues no better, A messenger is sent for Docter _Jones_, with orders, that if he is from Home to pursue him.--

Mr _Gregory_,[127] the Colonels Gardiner came this morning & began with Mr _Carters_ two Fellows who have been in the Garden all winter--They planted this day the common garden Peas.

The Colonel at Dinner gave Ben & I a Piece of Music to prepare on our Flutes, in which he is to perform the thorough Bass--Evening Mrs Carter Some Better.

[127] James Gregory was employed at various seasons to assist and instruct the colored gardeners at "Nomini Hall."

_Fryday 25._

Mrs Carter better--The Day pleasant--There is a report that the Jail-Fever, or Yellow or putrid Fever, is at one Mr Atwel's on potowmack, in this County; that it was brought in a Ship which came lately with convict Servants; that two have already died, one this morning: & that many of Mr Atwells Slaves are infected!--

Docter Jones spent the Evening with us; He complimented _Ben_ _Bob_, & myself with an invitation to dine with him next Sunday.

_Saturday 26._

Mr _Carter's_ Merchant Mill begins to run to-day--She is calculated to manufacture 25.000 Bushels of Wheat a Year--I walked at twelve with the Colonel to view her; it is amazing to consider the work and Ingenuity--He told me his Bill for the materials and work was 1450£.!--

_Ben_ to day Rode to Mr _Fantleroys_. Evening the Colonel & I performed the _Sonata_. I had the Pleasure to hear the Colonel say that I have my part perfect.

_Sunday 27._

I rode to day to Richmond Church, Parson Gibbern preached about 20 Minutes on the Text "he that walketh uprightly walketh wisely"--this seems to be a polite part of the parish.--After Sermon Ben & I rode to Docter _Jones's_; he was from home. Mrs Jones a young, Handsome, polite Lady, received & entertained us exceeding civilly.--On our return home, we called to see Mr Hamilton, who by a accident was thrown from a Horse, & received a sad cut in his Face! he lies at Mr Lanes.

_Monday 28._

Mrs Carter confined yet to her Room, but much better--Prissy & I on good terms once more--Breakfasted with us Mr _Taylor_.[128] Ben determines to ask his Papa to-morrow for Liberty to go home with me in April. Evening we performed the Sonata I the first; Ben the second; & Mr Carter the thorough Bass on the _Forte Piano_.

[128] Probably Colonel John Tayloe of "Mount Airy."

_Teusday March 1st 1774._

By one of Mr Carters Sailors we heard this morning that the Fever mentioned some Days ago continues. Afternoon Mr Lane[129] a young Gentleman, formerly my acquaintance at Princeton came to see me; with one Mr Harison--He stays all night.

[129] Joseph F. Lane of Loudoun County, Virginia.

_Wednesday 2._

I gave my little family a Holiday, with an intention to ride with Mr Lane after Dinner--We walked to the Mill, & about the works, but before twelve it began to rain, & prevented our going out--Mrs _Carter_ came out of her chamber & dined with us, & seems to be well over Illness.

Mr Lane lives in Louden County 20 Miles from Dumfries; & is to return to Princeton towards the close of this month.

_Thursday 3._