Diaries of Reverend Robert Samuel Smith

1906 Arrived in Newfoundland from Lavenham, Suffolk, England.

August 11, 1906 SATURDAY

Landed at St. John’s. The ship was a small slow boat of the Furnace Whitty - the Dahome. I had been sea sick all the way across which had taken nine days. I was twenty years of age and alone in a new world, all on my own. As soon as we pulled into the wharf the Rev. Charles Hackett came aboard looking for me and took me ashore and introduced me to several people and then took me to boarding house at 11 Queen Street, which was kept by a lady whose name was Mrs. Foote. It took me quite awhile to get my land legs.

AUGUST 12, 1906 SUNDAY

This being Sunday morning I prepared for church, but not until Mrs. Foote had introduced me to a new kind of food called Broose (brews), which is made from hard bread brought to a boil. It was extremely good and I enjoyed my breakfast. Mrs. Foote took me to her church, Alexander Street Church of which the minister was the Rev. Charles Hackett who preached a sermon on the Faith of the Four. In the afternoon I was taken to George Street Sunday School where I read the lesson, which was the parable of the Prodigal Son. I sat in Mr. Charles Ayres class. I met Mr. Will Pike. (Mr. Will Pike was a probationer who sold me his books. He is now in charge of our Home Mission Work among the Ruthenians?? He is known everywhere as the Radio Missionary The Rev. Will H. Pike (note made in 1951). I was invited to tea with the Rev. W.T. D. Dunn, afterwards Rev. Dunn took me to church with him and I heard him preach on PSA 42.2 God or What. Went to he parsonage for supper and music. Then went to my lodgings, 11 Queen Street with Mrs. Foote.

AUGUST 13, 1906 MONDAY

Correspondence, Walking around the city.

AUGUST 14, 1906 TUESDAY

Did some shopping and visiting around the city. At night I preached in George Street.

AUGUST 15, 1906 WEDNESDAY

I went aboard the Portia. Watched her set sail. I was looking for a good Templar’s Lodge but without success. In the evening I attended Epworth(League) and met many young people among whom was Miss Ada Horwood. While I was there I heard quite a bit about New Bay and nothing very promising. It was spoken of as a very hard place and difficult people.

AUGUST 16, 1906 THURSDAY

Today I was busy all day making preparations to go to New Bay. We left by train at about 5 o’clock in the afternoon and was on the train all night. This was my first experience on a narrow gage railway. TheRev. Sidney Chancey and his wife and two children were on the train.

AUGUST 17, 1906

Reached Glovertown at about 3 o’clock and Bro. Pike left the train. We went on to Notre Dame Junction and changed there for Lewisporte. I helped Mr. and Mrs. Chancey with their children and forgot all about the books I bought from Mr. Pike. These were books for my studies for two years. At Lewisporte I went aboard the S.S. Clyde and was dreadfully seasick. I called at Exploits and went to the parsonage to call on the Rev. Robert Maddock - my superintendent. He was not at home but I met Mrs. Maddock and their little girl Clair. I went on board again and went on to New Bay. On board there was a man named Mr. Churchill, who pointed to a man on the wharf saying that I would have to live at his house. I spoke to Mr. Moores who directed me to his home which was almost a mile from the wharf - Mr.Churchill and his daughter lived in the next house and so were able to point out to me the house where Mr. Moores lived. I knocked on the door which was opened in due time by a middle aged woman of maternal appearance. I told her who I was and she said she was sorry but I could not stay at her home. She had boarded the previous ministers but she was ill and the doctor ordered her to rest and she could not take me in to board. I was only a boy of 20 years and had been dreadfully ill on the Dahome all the way out from England, and had been awfully seasick since leaving Lewisporte. I suppose my youth and my illness won her sympathy because she said “Oh I don’t mean you can’t come in, of course you can come in. I’ll make you a cup of tea. You can stay here for a few days and then I’m sure you will find another home without any trouble, Come right in.” She showed me into a small front room or parlour and excused herself while she went to make a cup of tea. I sat there for a few moments, then seeing a small reed organ open I sat on the stool and began to play a few hymn tunes. Just simple hymns as appeared as the leaves turned. I became conscious of another presence in the room and looking around I saw Mrs. Moores leaning against the doorway. She said “Mr. Smith you don’t have to look for another boarding house. If you can play like that I’ll keep you here if I have to go on my hands and knees to do the work.” Well that suited me quite nicely. I went for a walk along the pathway. It was hardly a road but it was considered a good road by the people. After some conversation with Mr. and Mrs. Moores I went to bed and to sleep. So ended my first evening in New Bay. A stranger in a strange land. I had a very comfortable bed and a good sleep.

AUGUST 18, 1906 SATURDAY

After breakfast I went out and during the day I visited several homes of my people and found that among the people there was much bad feeling. I went home to unpack and to prepare for Sunday. I went to bed sad. Tomorrow the mail leaves. I wrote to Mother and Dora and mailed it to go on the Clyde tomorrow.

AUGUST 19, 1906 SUNDAY

This was my first Sunday in New Bay. In the morning I preached from Hebrew 11: 1-2. There was no church, the service was held in the school house. It seemed that the congregation has been at sixes and sevens over building a new church. The foundation is standing. It is a dreadful and pitiful situation. There is no organ and no one who can play an organ. It is tragic to see the children as they try to sing. We had Sunday School this afternoon. On the way home from church this morning I heard some of the women talking about my sermon. They said that it was like preaching they used to have years ago. They could not understand so young a man preaching like that. Tonight I preached from Matthew 8: 2-3 “If Thou whilst Thou can make me clean.” I had a good time. I came home and determined to get an organ, supposing I have to play it myself. I have often done that. Wrote to Mother and Dora.

AUGUST 20, 1906 MONDAY

I started off to collect some money for a new organ. I went to Fleury’s Bight. Fleury’s Bight is the extreme southern corner of my circuit and here we meet with and join the Roman Catholic Congregation of Fortune Harbour. On this side of the Bight we have three Protestant families and on the other side of the Bight there are a few Roman Catholic families. The road is simply a cart tract leading between the rocks. We have two families on New Bay Head and then we are back to Spencer’s Cove where there is a very fine couple Mr. and Mrs. David Spencer and a family of grown up sons and one daughter. Also Mr. Spencer’s mother is living in the home with them. Also I called on Mrs. Whitehorn who is a widow and her two sons. I came home with $23.50 for my first day’s collecting which by every token is a very good commencement.

AUGUST 21, 1906 TUESDAY

I did some more visiting and some more collecting which I think is a very fine way to introduce oneself to the people.

AUGUST 22, 1906 WEDNESDAY

I made preparations for the midweek service and preached from Phil. 4:19 “But My God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” I had a fairly good time and met some more people of the congregation.

AUGUST 23, 1906 THURSDAY

This afternoon I did some more visiting and collecting.

AUGUST 24, 1906 FRIDAY

Friday is a great day here. This is the day when the costal steamer, The Clyde, comes with passengers and freight and best of all the mail. I had expected to meet the Rev. Robert H. Maddock who is my Super, but he was not aboard. However, Mr. Waterman, who is to be my teacher at S.W. Arm was aboard and he came with me to stay at Mrs. Moores. Today the Salvation Army had their Sunday School picnic and I was requested to attend and to give an address to the people which I did.

AUGUST 25, 1906 SATURDAY

Mr. Waterman and I walked to Fortune Harbour to meet Mr. Maddock but he was not there. We came home to dinner. In the evening Mr. Maddock arrived and we had a talk about affairs.

AUGUST 26, 1906 SUNDAY

Bro. Maddock preached in the morning from Psalm 91. He conducted Sunday School and then went home on the Clyde (she was late). He, Mr. Maddock, seems to think I am alright. At the evening service Bro. Waterman read my lesson and I preached from Josh. 24:15 with which subject I had a good time. Mr. Waterman is to be my school teacher at South West Arm and will act as lay reader also.

AUGUST 27, 1906 MONDAY I

went with Mr. Waterman to S.W. Arm with Mr. Shirran - was in time for the Sunday School picnic. Had some codfish. Stayed with Mr. William Baggs.

AUGUST 28, 1906 Tuesday (South West Arm)

Visiting the people and greatly interested in the mill and its working. Met Mr. Allen and had a long conversation with him. Preaching service tonight.

AUGUST 29, 1906 WEDNESDAY (South West Arm)

Opened school with Mr. Waterman as teacher. I am chairman of the school board as well as Minister - a great responsibility.

AUGUST 30, 1906 THURSDAY

Visiting south side Salvation Army picnic.

AUGUST 31, 1906 FRIDAY

Went to South Arm and met several families by the name of Budgell. South Arm includes a small community at Budgell’s Point and four or five families at Paradise. I preached at night at Budgell’s Point in a home with boards put across chairs to make room for the men to sit.

SEPTEMBER 1, 1906 SATURDAY

I visited the families in Bobby’s Cove and walked two miles cross the neck to South West Arm and made preparations for Sunday.

SEPTEMBER 3, 1906 MONDAY

I preached in the morning and in the afternoon and again in the evening. Organized the Sunday School. Baptized Lucy Ann Stuckless - my first baptism. Had a bad cold.

SEPTEMBER 3, 1906 MONDAY

My cold was worse. I stayed in bed until the evening when I got up and went to the schoolhouse where I preached from Much More.

SEPTEMBER 4, 1906 TUESDAY

A heavy wind and I could not possibly go to New Bay so I stayed and had some correspondence with the Salvation Army officers. The Thistle had already sailed and as I was so ill with the cold the men put some hay in the bottom of a skiff and covered me with quilts and took me down to New Bay. I developed quite a cough.

SEPTEMBER 6, 1906 THURSDAY

I was told that the organ which I had ordered from Ayres and Sons had arrived. I went up to the school house and unpacked it. I was very pleased with it.

SEPTEMBER 7, 1906 FRIDAY

Was visiting all afternoon. Prayer meeting.

SEPTEMBER 8, 1906

Preparing sermons.

SEPTEMBER 9, 1906 SUNDAY

For the first time in history our little congregation sang the hymns of the church to music. I played the organ at Sunday School and at both services. Used Our Father this morning and Much More this evening.

SEPTEMBER 10, 1906 MONDAY

Practice for picnic.

SEPTEMBER 11 & 12, 1906 TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY

Visiting.

SEPTEMBER 13, 1906 FRIDAY

Too wet for picnic.

SEPTEMBER 14, 1906

Showery but we went ahead with the picnic. We had a fine entertainment. I had a display of fireworks on a small scale. This was the first time that every any one had seen fireworks of this sort in New Bay. There was a sick man on the Clyde. There was also an elderly priest. I gave some recitations at the entertainment. Miss E. Moores, who is the Sunday School Superintendent, returned on the Clyde.

SEPTEMBER 15, 1906 SATURDAY

I was busy cleaning up after the picnic and preparing sermons for tomorrow.

SEPTEMBER 16, 1906 SUNDAY

Preached this a.m. from Matthew 22:42 - Sunday School - Evening from Acts 16:30-31. All in all we had a good day.

SEPTEMBER 17-20, 1906, MONDAY - THURSDAY

Studying and visiting.

SEPTEMBER 21, 1906 FRIDAY

Up to see the Clyde come in. This is the only contact with the outside world. Came back to the house and got my mail. I should say Mr. Moores keeps a small store, is the local Justice of the Peace and is also the local Post Master. I was glad to have mail from England. Getting ready to go to North West Arm tomorrow.

SEPTEMBER 22, 1906 SATURDAY

I went down to Spencer’s Cove and Wallis and Edgar (Spencer) went with me to North West Arm. It was quite a thrilling experience for me as the wind was blowing hard the skiff heeled over to the wind. We went across the bay very fast, I was frightened but the boys assured me that everything was alright. They were quite amused at my fears. I met some of the families and was glad when bedtime came. I slept with Wallis.

SEPTEMBER 23, 1906 SUNDAY

I preached this morning. The Spencers went home this afternoon. I preached this evening. There are nine families in North West Arm. Mr. Osmond has a small mill at the bottom of the bay on a small stream and kept a small store. SEPTEMBER 24, 1906 MONDAY I went visiting in a boat and got almost lost around Moores Point. The wind came in from the Northwest. Mr. White came aboard and helped me get back. I did my visiting and preached at night.

SEPTEMBER 25, 1906 TUESDAY

Mr. and Mrs. Selby White were going to New Bay and took me over in their board.

SEPTEMBER 26, 1906 WEDNESDAY

Study and preaching tonight. Deut. 25.13. Some men from the Trader were there and we had a good congregation.

SEPTEMBER 27, 1906 THURSDAY

Studying and visiting.

SEPTEMBER 28, 1906 FRIDAY

Study, Clyde, Mail.

SEPTEMBER 29, 1906 SATURDAY

Answering mail.

SEPTEMBER 30, 1906 SUNDAY

Used Gal.5:22-23. Splendid time. Sunday School. Rain this evening. Very wet. Not many out. Poor time. Used “How Much Owest Thou”. This is the end of my first full month in the work of the mission.

OCTOBER 1, 1906 MONDAY

Tonight I met the ladies of the church in order to organize a Ladies Aid Society. We met at the school house. We called it a Sewing circle. All went off very well, very fair.

OCTOBER 2, 2906 TUESDAY

Visiting and studying.

OCTOBER 3, 1906 WEDNESDAY

Visiting. Preaching at night. St. John 15:5. Head a good time. Played organ was well as preached. Beginning to know some of the people.

OCTOBER 4, 1906 THURSDAY

Have been busy preparing for Leading Tickles. Feeling nervous and shy. Have been thinking a lot of four year ago when I went to London. What a difference!

OCTOBER 5, 1906 FRIDAY

Went aboard the Clyde for Leading Tickles. Some one put me on Gull’s or Cull’s Island and I walked over. Some one put me across and I arrived at Rowsell’s Island where I was met by Mrs. Israel Rowsell. They were very kind people. While we were at supper the schooner arrived home and I was able to meet the crew. They had brought some apples. After super we held a service at which I preached. I was taken over to the house of senior Mr. Rowselland shown my room. Mr. Rowsell, a retired lighthouse keeper and his son Arthur and daughter were away from home and I was alone in the house. In the morning, while I was dressing a distressing accident occurred. After breakfast I told Mrs. Israel Rowsell about it and she laughed heartily. The previous minister had a similar accident one time in the same room. Four years ago I met somebody.

OCTOBER 6, 1906 SATURDAY

I went to each house on the island and did some preparation for tomorrow. At night we held a meeting to discuss the need of a church. There was a great interest in the project and we elected a committee to build a new church. When bedtime came I was very tired but very happy.

OCTOBER 7, 1906 SUNDAY

This morning I preached from Gal. And this afternoon at Burnt Island from St. Luke 11:1 and on Rowsell’s Island from Matt. 8:2. All in all a good day.

OCTOBER 8, 1906

Visiting on Burnt Island, Preached at night. “Much More”. Powerful meeting. Very hot good time. After the service we talked of building the new church and started a subscription list and collection for it.

OCTOBER 9, 1906 TUESDAY

Started for North West Arm by way of Thimble Tickles in punt. Was treated with great kindness by Mrs. Lanning whose crew were lugging potatoes. Had a nice cup of tea. Commenced a walk through the country and came on two gangs of men who were opening a road where only a trial had been before. I was the first person to use the new “road” and one of the men crossed the toe of my boot with a cross. When I got to North West Arm I had tea with Mr. and Mrs. Osmond and then went to the school house for service where I preached again.

OCTOBER 10, 1906 WEDNESDAY

Today I visited all the homes in the ARM (nine). Sold some lumber to Mr. Osmond. There was Sunday School entertainment at night at which I was chairman. I read the “Revenge” and “Patsy”. We had a good collection.

OCTOBER 11, 1906 THURSDAY

We went over in boat to New Bay. I did some visiting in South East Arm and I baptised Florence Melena Wall. We had a Sunday School teachers meeting at night also a singing practice.

OCTOBER 12, 1906 FRIDAY

Busy all day. Went to meet the Clyde and got my mail. Prayer meeting tonight.

OCTOBER 13, 1906, SATURDAY

Saturday was busy with correspondence and was in the study preparing for Sunday.

OCTOBER 14, 1906 SUNDAY

This was Thanksgiving Sunday. I was home in New Bay. We had a good congregation. In the morning I used Psa. 136:2 and in the evening Rev. 3:8. We had a blessed Sunday. A good collection $10.34.

OCTOBER 15, 1906 MONDAY - OCTOBER WEDNESDAY

Studying and visiting. Preached from John 10:10 Wednesday night.

OCTOBER 18, 1906 THURSDAY

In the middle of the night Bro. Maddock came along. He had come on the Portia and had walked from Fortune Harbour. We were busy all day with plans for our work.

OCTOBER 19, 1906 FRIDAY

Taken up with letters and correspondence. Bro. Maddock and I dined with Mrs. John Moore. We went to meet the new teacher and introduced her to Mrs. Manuel. I attended to her trunks. We had tea at Mrs. P. Moores and went with her to Mrs. John Moores. Prayers tonight. Bro. Maddock preached. I read the lesson and played the organ.

OCTOBER 20, 1906 SATURDAY

Got ready early to go to South West Arm but found the wind contrary so we rowed up South Arm. Moses and Henry William Boone were with us. We boiled the kettle to make tea for lunch. Did some shooting - remarkable shot. We rowed to Mr. Britts but found it too hard to go further by punt. We had some tea and all walked to Bobby’s Cove. It was very hard walking but pressed on and reached there by 5 o’clock. We rested for a while and then went on to South West Arm. We went to Mr. S. Hutchcraft’s store and found he had some apples. I bought a postal order for Mrs. Draper. We had a jolly good (meat) and a nice wash up and were much refreshed. I got some nice stamps for my collection. It was late when we went to bed at Mr. Baggs.

OCTOBER 21, 1906 SUNDAY

I walked to Bobby’s Cove and preached in the morning and afternoon. Then I walked back to Mr. Hutchcrafts to tea where I had a nice meal and then went with Mr. Hutchcraft to prayers. We had to wait a long time. Bro. Maddock preached. I led the prayer meeting. A real good time - much blessing.

OCTOBER 22, 1906 MONDAY

We found that Mr. Hastings? was going down the Arm in a skiff loaded with lumber so we went with him and landed at South East Arm and walked home arriving about 3 o’clock. Mrs. Moores prepared us a really good dinner after which we spent a very pleasant evening.

OCTOBER 23, 1906 TUESDAY

Bro. Maddock and I were busy all day and he preached at the evening service. I assisted in the service and played the organ.

OCTOBER 24, 1906 WEDNESDAY

Weather too bad for Bro. Maddock to go home. We spent some time together and enjoyed a pleasant evening.

OCTOBER 25, 1906 THURSDAY

Mr. Maddock and I started for New Bay. We went to Fortune Harbour. We got a boat and rowed across the harbour. A woman fell off the wharf. I rowed back alone. A teacher’s meeting and singing practice.

OCTOBER 26, 1906 FRIDAY

Clyde, letters, correspondence, Prayer meeting.

OCTOBER 27, 1906 SATURDAY

Study and correspondence.

OCTOBER 28, 1906 SUNDAY

Preaching in the morning. Used Ruth. Preached at night. School crowded. Went to see Victor.

OCTOBER 29, 1906 MONDAY

Study, visiting.

OCTOBER 30, 1906 TUESDAY

Visiting, study, Sewing Circle.

OCTOBER 31, 1906 WEDNESDAY

Prepared sermon. Study. Preaching at night St. John 6:63.

NOVEMBER 1, 1906 THURSDAY

Studying. Visiting. Too wet to go far.

NOVEMBER 2, 1906 FRIDAY

Wet again. Prep. Study. Mail day.

NOVEMBER 3, 1906 SATURDAY

Correspondence. Study. Very wet.

NOVEMBER 4, 1906 SUNDAY

Awfully wet. Went to church with Mrs. Moores. So wet no one stayed. We met some coming away. Sunday School, fair attendance. Evening service 42:2. Fair number out. Fairly good time. Very wet underfoot.

NOVEMBER 5, 1906 MONDAY

Too dull to study. Too wet for bonfires.

NOVEMBER 6, 1906 TUESDAY

Still wet. Not quite so bad. Sewing Circle met.

NOVEMBER 7, 1906 WEDNESDAY

Preaching at night. Good congregation. St. Luke 7:44.

NOVEMBER 8, 1906 THURSDAY

Packed up ready to go to South West Arm but could not get up. Snow deeper than I had seen before.

NOVEMBER 9, 1906 FRIDAY

Packed to go to South West Arm but no wind. Snowing hard.

NOVEMBER 10, 1906 SATURDAY

Was called by Mr. Parmiter. Had hasty breakfast. Made a run for the government wharf where Mr. Rice’s schooner lay. We had to wait until 9 o’clock. We had to beat out. Then we had a fair wind up to S.W. Arm. Had some candy and biscuits and cheese. I hailed a punt and went to Mr. Bagg’s. Had some dinner and a warm-up. I went over to Mr. Hutchcraft’s aboard a South Arm schooner. Had tea and a pleasant time. Bro. Waterman pleased.

NOVEMBER 11, 1906 SUNDAY

Preaching three times – fairly good congregations. Good prayer meeting. Some music on the organ. Went to bed tired. Mr. Baggs not at home. Missed him much.

NOVEMBER 12, 1906 MONDAY

Visited and collected fees. Met. Bro. Waterman and went across to the schooner. But as no one was willing to go to South Arm we abandoned the idea and I went and baptized George Henry, son of Mr. And Mrs. M. Stuckless. First time wearing skin boots.

NOVEMBER 13, 1906 TUESDAY

Started to walk to South Arm alone. This was my first real day on skin boots. Road was very muddy, good walk. Had a cup of tea with Mrs. Tucker. Visited Budgell’s Point – came back and preached at Bobby’s Cove in a home (Warfords) . After this preaching we held a meeting to consider building a school house. This was a very rough meeting and boisterous. I had to make the men quit shouting and threatening. I told them that any man who wanted to fight would have to fight me. After awhile we did some good work and got things started. We closed at 10:30. I walked back across the neck about two miles and found the boat on shore. I rowed across the arm and got home safely and was in bed by one o’clock. Quite a full day and one to be remembered.

NOVEMBER 14, 1906 WEDNESDAY

Up early and had some breakfast and put off in punt to Mr. SHERMAN’S boat. Calm at first, then ice, then raining, then head winds. Rain cold. Reached South East Arm at 4 o’clock. Home at 5 o’clock. Big dinner of ?? bones.

NOVEMBER 15, 1906 THURSDAY

Prepared for Exploits. Working at lecture. On Clyde at 10 o’clock. Exploits at 2 a.m. Bed comfortable.

NOVEMBER 16, 1906 FRIDAY

Up at 8 o’clock. Baby and Mrs. Maddock out for mail. Visiting. Prayer meeting “In the Name etc.”. Good time. Greek attended wedding.

NOVEMBER 17, 1906 SATURDAY

Very wet and stormy. Busy all day. Too wet for a practice.

NOVEMBER 18, 1906 SUNDAY

Preside at organ for morning service and afternoon. Addressed Sunday School. Nice service. Preaching at night. Got on well. Good collection. Alter service. 20 around alter. 12 consecration candidates. To bed tired but happy.

NOVEMBER 19, 1906 MONDAY

Still at Exploits. Busy.

NOVEMBER 20, 1906 TUESDAY

Dined with Dr. Overton. Buried bay (burned?). Wet.

NOVEMBER 21, 1906 WEDNESDAY

Final preparation for lecture. Attending to Westside. Study etc. Tea meeting, much feasting, good spread. Lecture. Recitation by Mrs. Maddock. Good time - fairly good.

NOVEMBER 22, 1906 THURSDAY

Prepared for evening social. Nice games Dr. and Mrs. Overton were there. I recited “The Three Parsons” and “The Revenge”. Good company, pleasant time.

NOVEMBER 23, 1906 FRIDAY

Study. Preparation for Sunday. Prayer meeting. Gave short address “Importunate Widow.”

NOVEMBER 24, 1906 SATURDAY

Portia blew. Dress hurriedly. Had some breakfast and went to boat. Plenty of time. Blowing a gale. Portia shifted freight. Tremendous seas. Sea sick. I landed at Fortune Harbour. Walked to New Bay. Deep snow, cold. Very glad to reach home. Had a cup of tea and went to see Mrs. Spencer. Wore new rubber boots for the first time. I stayed with the Spencers and watch Mrs. Spencer Sr. die. This was the first time I had ever seen a person die. (The old lady passed so peacefully that I have never forgotten how gracious death may be.)

NOVEMBER 25, 1906 SUNDAY

Temperance Sunday. I gave it to them straight. Some appeared to enjoy it. Mrs. Moores encouraged me by telling me that she did intend to send for a bottle of spirits but after my sermon gave up the idea. In the afternoon we made some experiments in Sunday School. Hard time. Very strange for the children. 20 people took the pledge. All of the teachers and some of the children. In the evening I was as pointed as could be with the result that five more took the pledge. We went home and as we had visitors we had some music and singing.

NOVEMBER 26, 1906 MONDAY

Study, preparation of Wednesday. Visiting. Mail at 12 o’clock. New dresses?

NOVEMBER 27, 1906 TUESDAY

The burial of Mrs. Spencer. Study in the morning. Went to bury Mrs. Spencer. Had to wait a long time. Left the house at 3:15 reached home at tea time. Met Sewing circle. Unpacked the new stuff. Very late.

NOVEMBER 28, 1906 WEDNESDAY

Busy with books, preparation for night. Funeral sermon supposed to be very good. Had good time in study. Correspondence. Got ready to go to Leading Tickles.

NOVEMBER 29, 1906 THURSDAY

Got ready for North West Arm. Mr. Norman Manuel and I put off in boat. Could get no one else. Sculling. Shooting. Did visiting. Preaching at night. After prayers I held a meeting to get money to finish school chapel. Decided to build a porch and water closed - toiled. Also collected enough in promises to paint inside and was promised some lumber. A very successful meeting.

NOVEMBER 30, 1906 FRIDAY

When I woke this morning I found a heavy snow fall. Two feet of snow. I went down to Fred Moores for dinner. He had large family. I collected fees. A slight increase over last year. Missionary boxes doing well. Made preparation to go Leading Tickles in the morning. It was too rough for prayers.

DECEMBER 1, 1906 SATURDAY

Breakfast early. Commenced to walk to Thimble Tickles. My first attempt on rackets (snowshoes). I did fairly well but I fell down once or twice in the thicket when the guide lost his way (Fred Moores). It was all very strange and interesting. When we reached Thimble Tickles we were very kindly entertained by Mrs. Martin after which Mr. Moores went home and came on to Rowsell’s Island. Two men rowed me up in a punt. I found no one at home at Mr. Marks and went to some other houses. I met my hostess Miss Rowsell and was told that the schooner was not home yet. So we waited up and she arrived at about 12 o’clock. We went aboard and by the time we returned and we were ready to go to bed it was Sunday morning.

DECEMBER 2, 1906 SUNDAY

Preached in morning from PSA 126.3. Held class meeting. In the afternoon we went to Burnt Island and I preached there. In the evening I preached again in Rowsell’s Island. Had a fairly good day. Nice music etc.

DECEMBER 3, 1906 MONDAY

Up late. Still storm bound. Visited one or two homes. Preaching at night. Baptized Mary Jane Rowsell. Had a pleasant evening, singing and chatting.

DECEMBER 4, 1906 TUESDAY

Very stormy. Went for mail. Visited Mrs. Lannon who is sick. Came home with splendid mail. P.P.C..ss and papers from England. Got home after dinner - answered some letters and prepared for service. It was too rough to go to Burnt Island so I preached where I was on Rowsell’s Island.

DECEMBER 5, 1906 WEDNESDAY

Finished letters - went to visit homes on Rowsell’s Island - came home. Blowing hard - had tea. Commenced to watch steamer. Was watching night. Blowing hard all night.

DECEMBER 6, 1906 THURSDAY

No sign of steamer. Learned during the day that she had gone on without coming in on account of the heavy winds and seas. I attempted to study. Read “A Human Face” by Silas Hocking. Fine story. Visited a little - a pleasant day. I was beaten in a shooting match 50 present. During the day I received a dollar for the Sewing Circle. To bed at about ll o’clock. Soon fell asleep.

DECEMBER 7, 1906 FRIDAY

After breakfast prepared to go to New Bay but was disappointed on account of the bad weather. Disappointed. Did some reading and study. Got a cold.

DECEMBER 8, 1906 SATURDAY

Blowing hard. Boys not home. Very mild and snow all gone. Lots of water. Boys came home. Snowing again. Shooting. Won 100 percent. Too rough to go to New Bay - a prisoner still. Did some study. A pleasant time.

DECEMBER 9, 1906 SUNDAY

Storm continued. Blowing hard. Preaching in the morning. Had only a few but had a really good time. Awfully cold, freezing all day. Preaching in the afternoon. Arthur fell asleep. Preaching at night in the kitchen of Mr. Rowsell. Too cold to be in the front room. Good time. Very tired. I want to be home at work. A very happy home - nice conversation. Went to bed tired.

DECEMBER 10, 1906 MONDAY

Up fairly early but too rough to go to New Bay. Bad news of several wrecks at Twillingate. Mr. Rowsell left for steamer. Went to bed wishing I were home.

DECEMBER 11, 1906 TUESDAY

Found it much calmer this morning. Boy getting schooner ready for the trip. Met the steamer. Left at l o’clock and reached New Bay at 3:15. Had some dinner and got ready for Sewing Circle. Received a nice welcome after being away so long.

DECEMBER 12, 1906 WEDNESDAY

Clearing up after a long time away. Mr. Richards came for me to see Dan. Dan was his horse. He was the only horse in the whole area. I went and gave him a dredge and he got better. He had colic - not enough good food. I came home and prepared for church.

DECEMBER 13, 1906 THURSDAY

Busy getting ready for bazaar. Visiting South East Arm. I had a look at Dan. He is much better. Pricing goods at Sewing Circle. Lively time. Home at 12:30. Dressed J.C. Bed 1:30.

DECEMBER 14, 1906 FRIDAY

After dinner I started for South East Arm. I took Mr. Manuels’ punt and tried to cross Cottrells Cove. But I lost an oar. The seas were high. An awful sea. Piloted boat into a little cove between rocks and jumped out on the third swell. I held on to the painter and as the boat fell back with the undertow it strained me in the right groin. A friend came and helped me put the boat back and he promised to take it back to Mr. Manuel and I went on to South East Arm collecting fees. Prayer meeting but not many there. We had a singing practice. Came home and had a pleasant chat. Received a present of $3.00 from Mr. J. Moores for services rendered to Victor.

DECEMBER 15, 1906 SATURDAY

Went to dress Jacob Churchill. Also visiting for cakes to be made for Circle - made up accounts. Paid $10.00 on teacher’s account and $40.00 on account of lodging and board.

DECEMBER 16, 1906 SUNDAY

Preaching morning and evening. Conducted Sunday School. Poor congregations. Fairly good time. Very tired and feeling rather ill.

DECEMBER 17, 1906 MONDAY

Had a slight row with Mr. Peter Clark. Busy preparing schoolroom for bazaar. Worked hard all day - made good progress.

DECEMBER 18, 1906 TUESDAY

Very busy making final preparations for Bazaar. This is the first time ever a bazaar or anything of the kind was held in New Bay. When the Sewing circle was organized no one would be secretary so I had to take that office. We went up to the school house and put the tables up before dinner time. After dinner we went back. The Bazaar was a wonderful success and we all had a splendid time. We took in about $105.00 - everybody tired but happy.

DECEMBER 19, 1906 WEDNESDAY

Bazaar continued. I went up to the school house to clean up to prepare for the evening. Was busy all day - opened the Bazaar 5:30. We had a social evening with singing, games and recitations. Closed singing the National Anthem.

DECEMBER 20, 1906 THURSDAY

Slept very late. Was awakened when the others were ready to go to the school house to clean up. We did it all before we came home at 3 o’clock, then we had dinner. I went and paid bills.

DECEMBER 21, 1906 FRIDAY

Busy making up accounts. Sold several things for the Sewing Circle. Went to Prayer meeting - not many there. We had some singing. Heard Clyde was coming and so we went back and waited for mail. A good mail. Letters and Christmas presents, fountain pen, money, cards, etc. Went to bed at 2 o’clock.

DECEMBER 22, 1906 SATURDAY

Answering letters. Sent money to Ayre and Sons, to Rev. Crews, $11.45 to Dora for cards. Using pen all day. Very pleased with it. Sold two guns (?) For Christmas tree. Received several things for Christmas tree. Feeling very unstrung. I did only slight preparation for Sunday. Feeling the burden of souls for a long time. It becomes hard to bear. But in my prayers I felt the assurance of a good time on the morrow.

DECEMBER 23, 1906 SUNDAY

Preaching in the morning. Used John the Baptist. Had a good congregation considering the circumstances. Had a good time preaching about being saved. Class meeting much hurt by Bro’s remarks. Not feeling well, became thoroughly unstrung. Too much upset to get to Sunday School. Superintendent, who understood somewhat, took school. Was lying down but thinking hard all afternoon. After tea it was raining hard but I went to prayers and used Amos 4:12. No one saved. Disappointment, say, weary, went to bed early. A strange Christmas Sunday but English still duty done, a feeling of God’s presence.

DECEMBER 24, 1906 MONDAY A

woke feeling very sick. Had breakfast in bed. Got up immediately after. Put names on Christmas cards and presents for Christmas. Mrs. Vatcher helped me a great deal on this work. Went to dress Jacob Churchill. Came back to work on Christmas tree project. After tea I got dressed and went to practice. I came home and had a bite of supper and came upstairs and wrote to Caseton (?) Company. Found letters in trunk. Copied one and put them up - studied sermon. At 1:20 am went downstairs and played some Christmas carols on the organ.

DECEMBER 25, 1906 TUESDAY

Came downstairs 9:30 feeling very ill (catching cold). Went to prayers. Preaching from Isa 9:6. My soul was in the sermon but I had a feeling of depression. Went home to dinner. Sent trunk up to school. Was making letters assisted by Miss Vatcher. Went to school and assisted Miss Moore to dress tree. Came home to tea. Went back again and commenced meeting - had a nice time. Had a good number of presents and am feeling tired and with a thorough chill in my system. My mind brought many recollections and memories of past very pleasant. Feeling very happy in the love of my Saviour “Peace, perfect peace in this dark world of sin. “Much madness on account of sin. I long to be used for His Glory. Lights out at 12:30.

DECEMBER 26, 1906 WEDNESDAY

Boxing Day. Feeling very sick. Got up for breakfast - Mrs. Moores sick in bed all day. Puttering around, putting things in order and squaring up. Miss Moores housekeeping. Nothing eventful excepting Leading Tickles subscription list prepared. One dollar received toward Leading tickles.$.50 for North West Arm. After writing the above an incident of interest took place. I had to have a plaster put on my back. My first plaster. Also I commenced to take kidney pills. Lights out at 11:15.

DECEMBER 27, 1906 THURSDAY

Awoke feeling better, feeling fairly fit. Decided to go to North West Arm but was persuaded out of it. Did not feel so well. Went up to school house - came back. Dressed Jacob Churchill. Had tea with Mr. and Mrs. Churchill. Did some study and writing letters. Candy from Nettie - splendid. In a land of strangers but…

DECEMBER 28, 1906 FRIDAY

A beautiful sunshine this morning. I was up early and had breakfast. Too bad to get out. Mrs. Moores came downstairs. She has a sore throat - not much better - no appetite. I asked Bro. Moores to lead prayers but he could not. Evening musical. Thinking about home and the experiences of the last few months. Glad to get to bed. Lights out 12:35.

DECEMBER 29, 1906 SATURDAY

Got up late. Cold hanging on. Ate an egg for breakfast - appetite a little better. I dressed Jacob and am allowing his face to close. Fire in the study. Sermonizing. Not much eventful. Bed at 12:20.

DECEMBER 30, 1906 SUNDAY

Feeling better -went to prayers. Had a fairly good congregation. Went to Sunday School, quite a big crowd. Prayers at night, a good congregation. Very good prayer meeting. Came home tired but glad to have had a personal talk with one soul. Went to bed rather late.

DECEMBER 31, 1906 MONDAY

Interviewed Mr. A. Budgell whom I was expecting to marry. Wedding to be at 2 o’clock. I prepared for the ceremony. At 2:45 we were all in the church (the school house). I commenced with a hymn. Wedding went off well - some slight excitement. Visited down to Spencer’s Cove. Home for tea. Study. Prepared for watchnight service. Text Deut. 31:8. Feeling satisfied concerning meeting. After I came home I did some letters.

JANUARY 1, 1907 TUESDAY ( New BAY)

I returned from Watchnight service after a splendid time. The first tune was Duke St. I had preached from Deut 31 and had a really good time. We had about forty people in church. This morning I went out to learn how to skate. I had dinner with Mr. and Mrs. Spencer. Called at Nehemiah’s and shaved there. We had a party at Mrs. William Moores’ and we had a jolly time. It was quite nice. During the day I had some target practice and did very well with the gun. It was a really holiday.

JANUARY 2, 1907 WEDNESDAY

Went to dress Jacob. Was then busy in the study and did Greek etc. Went up to the steamer. Saw Miss Milley. Went to prayers. Came and found a splendid mail with lots of letters and parcels. All in all a splendid day.

JANUARY 3, 1907 THURSDAY

Worked at correspondence most of the day. Went out and tried to get a crew to go to S. Arm on Friday. Resolved to go. Busy.

JANUARY 4, 1907 FRIDAY

No time for South Arm This means that the weather was too bad to venture out in a boat. So I settled down to study. Went up to prayer meeting but there were not many there as most of the people knew I had intended to go up the Arm. We had some singing. We went to Mrs. J. Moores’ and had some more singing after which I came home and read the Methodist Recorder.

JANUARY 5, 1907 SATURDAY

Had hoped to go to South Arm but the weather would not permit us to do so. I was visiting in the morning, working at correspondence and at sermons making some preparations for Sunday.

JANUARY 6, 1907 SUNDAY

Preached in the morning “When We Preach”. Sunday School in the afternoon. At night I preached from “? In the Name of Jesus of Nazareth”. I had good time but disappointed in that there were no visible results. Awfully tired. Quite fagged out.

JANUARY 7, 1907 MONDAY

Up late. Did some reading. Visiting Boone’s Point. Had tea with Mrs. Wall, salmon which I enjoyed. A nice tea meal. When I came home I found we had visitors. I gave the music lesson in the study.

JANUARY 8, 1907

Collecting for the North West Arm and also for Leading Tickles. Received Mrs. Pierce for “Greeting”. Gave Miss Pru a music lesson (This was Miss Prudence Moores daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Moores) Mr. Dalton came to work on the church as foreman. Found him lodgings with Mr. Manuel at the wharf. Received $2 gold piece as a New Years present from Mrs. Moores. Went to bed early feeling rather down.

JANUARY 9, 1907 WEDNESDAY

Up in good time. Study and preparation for preaching at night. Today we got our mail by overland from Botwoodville. An awfully long walk for the men. I had a good mail, some photos which pleased me very much and some paper. I went up to the school house for the prayer meeting but there were not many out as the weather was very stormy. I went ahead with the prayer meeting but could not have a meeting of the building committee as there were not enough of the members able to come out on account of the storm. After I came home I did some reading.

JANUARY 10, 1907 THURSDAY

After the most windy night I have ever known through the hours of which I lay awake for after hour I arose and took breakfast and then commenced a frame for Babs and Dorothy. Babs and Dorothy were two little girls belonging to Mr. and Mrs. Cook in Watlington. It continued to blow hard all day. I could not go out. Worked at correspondence and attended to church affairs and did some study.

JANUARY 11, 1907 FRIDAY

Went for a run until study warmed up and then did some correspondence. Did some preparation for Monday. Prepared for Prayer meeting. I had a splendid time at prayer meeting. We held a committee meeting and after a lot of talk and discussion we resolved to build a tower for the church and to use the ground floor for a vestry and part of it for a toilet. It is hard to understand why, with lumber so cheap and everybody a carpenter that none of the houses are provided with toilets. It is something I cannot understand and a subject I cannot discuss with them individually. The toilets I had built for the boys and girls of the school should be an example. After I came home I worked in the study until 1 o’clock.

JANUARY 12, 1907 SATURDAY

Correspondence. Busy with church affairs. Miss Vatcher helped me with church letters. Study and preparation for Sunday.

JANUARY 13, 1907 SUNDAY

Preaching in the morning from St. Luke l9:l5. Had a good time and good results. Went to Sunday School in the afternoon. The weather was very dirty in the evening but I preached from Acts 26:28. Held a prayer meeting to which everyone stayed after which I met the class.

JANUARY 14, 1907 MONDAY

Up early. Wrote to baby Clair. Got ready for the South Arm. Mr. J. Rice and Parmiter went with me. I walked to South East Arm and we took a punt there. It was a long hard row. We had to cut through the slob ice with an axe. It was so cold that Mrs. Rice was frost burned. After three hours we reached Budgell’s Point. We had a cup of tea there and then went in punt to Bobby’s Cove and stayed with Mr. and Mrs. Tucker for tea and a rest. I preached at night in Budgell’s Cove from the text “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, today and forever”. Only a few were present. I came back to Mrs.Tucker’s very tired. (Mr and Mrs Tucker were Anglican people but they always made me welcome and their home was the only home in which I would want to spend the night)

JANUARY 15, 1907 TUESDAY

This morning I visited all the houses in the (Bobby’s ) Cove. It was snowing all morning and cold. I came and had dinner at Mrs. Tucker’s. Mr. Charlie Warford walked over the neck with me and up to Mr. Hutchcroft’s home. I had tea there. Left for Mr. Baggs’ home where I spent the night. I played the organ and talked with the family. I walked up to the post office and came home to Mr. Baggs’ and went to bed very tired after walking so far on so much new snow.

JANUARY 16, 1907 WEDNESDAY

I had trouble in the night. Something I had eaten disturbed me so I stayed in bed until noon. When I came down I had toast and salmon. After dinner I went over to Mr. Hutchcroft’s and got my mail which should have gone to New Bay. There were two letters from Dora which I enjoyed very much. There was no letter from mother otherwise a very fair mail. Mr. Hutchcroft paid his fees $5. Very good. I visited a Mr. Peatey and there was no one at prayers. I visited Mr. Shirran. Came home to Mr. Baggs’ and gave a music lesson. Did some study, some correspondence and some reading.

JANUARY 17, 1907 THURSDAY

After breakfast I read Steele’s Antinomianism ? And did some Greek. In the afternoon I visited the houses down shore. I went to church and preached from Deut. 31:8. After I came home I gave them some more music after which I did some study and some correspondence and some reading and retired at 12:30. This has been the coldest day of my life. (In the bedroom where I slept with the teacher I was fascinated by watching the frost gather on the nails in the wood forming the walls of the room).

JANUARY 18, 1907 FRIDAY

After breakfast Mr. Rowsell came in and although I tried to do some study and some Greek, I found it impossible. He wanted to talk. After dinner I visited up the shore. It was a beautiful day and not quite so cold. I was home at 5 o’clock and worked on my sermon. After tea went to prayers, used Rev. 3:8 after W. (Waterman or White) and P. (Parmiter) and I went to Mr. Rice. He had gone to bed with his wife, but came down to let me have a pair of skin boots and a pair of snowshoes. I posted some letters and came home and played some more music and did some reading went to bed at 12:40.

JANUARY 19, 1907 SATURDAY

I was called early. Mr. Parmiter was ready and we started for North West Arm after breakfast of beans. We left at 7:30 am. It was very cold. The sun was shining brightly. We were soon compelled to put our snowshoes on - mine hurt my feet terribly. We crossed Western Arm and then we crossed the neck and crossed over a big pond. We then had some lunch, some water. We all lay on our stomachs in order to drink. We went on to West. After four hours walking we came to North West Arm. We had a good dinner and a pleasant afternoon in the home at the mill with Mr. and Mrs. Osmond. After tea I did some study and enjoyed chatting with Mr. Osmond. I went to see Mr. Yates and he shaved me and I shaved him. (Mr. Osmond could take a kettle of boiling tea, bubbling over and drink the boiling tea directly from the spout of the kettle. I saw him do it many times).

JANUARY 20, 1907 SUNDAY

I awoke in good time and had a nice breakfast of ham and eggs. We went to prayers and used Deut 3l:8. There were a good few there. In the afternoon I preached chiefly for the children from St. Matt. 26:42. W. (Waterman or White) and P. (Parmiter) and I went to see Mrs. White who was ill. I had a headache myself. I had tea with Mr F.B. Moores and then came up to prayers where I preached from Acts 26:28. We had a good service with one soul seeking but he did not find the light. I was very tired. My head was aching badly as were my limbs as though I had a severe chill. After supper I retired. My head was aching badly as were my limbs as though had a severe chill. After supper I retired at 10 o’clock. It has been a dirty day with strong winds all day. (Mr. F.B. Moores was a brother of Mr. Peter Moores with whom I lived in New Bay. He had a large family. There were nine families in North West Arm. I used to visit every family every time I went there, if it were possible. They were a good people. I never stayed more than one day and night. If I arrived at noon I would visit all nine families in the afternoon, preach at night and go on to Leading Tickles in the morning. I preached there on Sunday in three months, then of course I had to stay longer. The above is a report of one of those Sundays.)

JANUARY 21, 1907 MONDAY

We arose in good time and after breakfast we started out for Leading Tickles. The snow as deep and the walking very difficult. When we got on the ice the slob was very deep and my legs were soon wet through. We had a cup of tea at Mr. Martin’s home and then went on to Mr. Marsh’s. Mr. White was with me all this time. Then we called at Mr. Leir Rowsell’s at which time Mr. White went back and Mr. George Fudge became my pilot. I had a visit with an old Englishman, Mr. Marsh. Then we borrowed a boat - a punt - and pulled up to the Island. We arrived wet and tired at approximately 3 o’clock. I had a wash and bathed my feet and had some tea. We had to go to Burnt Island for a service and we had a good congregation of 25 people to whom I preached from Deut. 31:8. We had a nice service. In the morning we had a south wind but it became very calm during the day. Towards evening the wind came up again.

JANUARY 22, 1907 TUESDAY

After breakfast I went out to visit the folk. Mr. J. Rowsell paid his fee $10.00. After dinner I did some reading. Later we did some shooting and some more visiting. We had a service at night when I preached from Acts 3:6. Had a nice time. Came home and visited until 12:45. A happy evening. Very cold. A breeze in the morning, calmer in evening, Freezing hard. I would like to be in London. It would be rain. (?)

JANUARY 23, 1907 WEDNESDAY

After breakfast I went with Mr. Israel Rowsell to hunt turrs. Turrs are saltwater birds which are very fast and very beautiful and considered good eating. We only got one. We were back in good time for dinner. It was a very fine morning. In the afternoon we had some more target practice. I was the best shot ( believe it or not). I did some Greek and also some reading. I am coming down with a cold and feel quite ill but have to prepare for the service tonight. We had our service in the home of Mr. Mark Rowsell when I preached from St. John 10:11 - a fairly good time. The weather is turning milder again. I took supper with Mr. Israel Rowsell and retired, feeling all in with a very bad cold and a sore throat. I visited the school today and saw the teacher at work with the pupils and was quite pleased with the appearance of things.

JANUARY 24, 1907 THURSDAY

Was up early and got ready to go to North West Arm. We had some target practice and Mr. Rowsell made a bull’s eye when shooting with Mr. Chippett. We left at 11 o’clock and walked on the ice across the neck to Mr. Allan’s. We took his slide and went to Thimble Tickles. We did nicely. We left the slide and rackets there and walked across the neck arriving at N.W. Arm at 2 o’clock. After a lunch I inspected the school where we found 16 pupils present and everything going well. I borrowed some skates from Mr. ? but did not do very well on them. After some tea we went to prayers. We had no church in N.W. Arm but held services in the school house. There were some men out of the camp so that we had about 25 in the congregation. We had nice service which we closed at 9:40. We went back to Mr. Osmonds and had some supper after which I did some writing and study until 12:10 when I went to bed.

JANUARY 25, 1907 FRIDAY

We were up early and prepared for South West Arm. Mr. Osmond and Mr. White came with me all the way. It was very cold and keen wind blew hard from the west. We boiled the kettle and Mr. Osmond drank boiling tea directly from the spout of the kettle. This was a wonderfully strange thing. He could drink the boiling tea without scalding his mouth and throat. We arrived in S.W. Arm at 11:30 and some tea with Mrs. Andrews. We also went to see old Mrs. Andrews. We came to Mr. Baggs and surprised Mr. Waterman - our school teacher. We had diner. During the afternoon I did some writing and some study. We went to prayers which are always held in the school house. Not many were present, very few people knew I was in the settlement. I used St. John 10:11. Went to Mr. Hutchcroft’s and got an order for Rev. Crews and had some supper with him. I received some mail and did some correspondence today. I was glad to go to bed and I was really tired out.

JANUARY 26, 1907 SATURDAY

Very weary and tired so stayed in bed for awhile. After breakfast I did some writing but didn’t do much work. I went over the bay on skates with Bro. Waterman who is my teacher here. Mr. Waterman also is lay reader and holds services in my absence. This was the day we got to put an organ into the church (the school house). I was going visiting when I was stopped by Mr. William Thompson who came for me saying that I was needed to marry Joseph Rowsell to Bertha Hutchcroft. I made all the arrangement for this and went to church - where I played some pieces on the organ and then tied the knot. I went to take supper and after supper came back home and to my room where I studied until 1:30. I had lunch during the evening and I ate an orange which was a real luxury.

JANUARY 27, 1907 SUNDAY

Just six month ago I bade good bye to all my friends in Lavenham. This morning I was up in good time. Went to prayers. Used Matt. 5:20. Had a good time. In the afternoon I used Watch and Pray. I took tea with Mr. J. Baggs and went to prayers. I preached from Josh. 24: 14-15. We had good congregations all day and really good collections. This morning it was mild but it became frosty through the day and snowed during the evening. I went to visit Mrs. ?. I saw two men from New Bay and made plans to go with them.

JANUARY 28, 1907 MONDAY

After breakfast Mr. Baggs conveyed me to Bobby’s Cove on a sled. I enjoyed the ride. The first time I have ridden behind a horse in Newfoundland. I visited all the people in the Cove and came on to Paradise where I preached in Mr. Ralph’s home. We had 21 present as all came who could from the Cove. After the service I went to visit Mr. Britt and had some supper with him. After that I went back to Mr. Ralph’s and made a pad for a saddle which had raised a bad gall on their little horse. I retired at 12:45. The wind was southern all morning with snow. Quite a dirty day. Wind became western towards evening and towards night it was fine. I am hoping to be in New Bay tomorrow.

JANUARY 29, 1907 TUESDAY

I got up early and had a good breakfast and started for New Bay at 9:20. We walked across the Arm 6 or 7 miles and reached Hatchet Cove soon after 11:30. Mr. White and Mr. Boone were there and they had the kettle on the fire. We had some tea and lunch and we started through the woods for South East Arm. The handle of my valise broke and I had to carry it on my shoulder. We reached South East Arm and had a cup of teat with Mrs. Sanger while Mr. Sanger went on with my valise. I reached home and found Talk a Phone on the go. I was busy all evening unpacking, music, accounts. Very good report. Went to bed tired at 10:20 - had a good night.

JANUARY 30, 1907 WEDNESDAY

I rose and had breakfast after which I walked up to the church and was very pleased with the progress that had been made. I then visited the school and did the necessary business, after which I came home to study. After dinner I was in my study until I heard the mail was in. During the winter our mail was carried by man to Botwoodville - a long walk - as was brought back by him. It would be once a week or perhaps it might be two weeks. We were always glad to hear that the mail had arrived. We had no other connection with the world as we had no telegraph office near us. Mr. George Boone wanted work but I could not help him. He wanted flour but I had to leave it for a while. I went to prayers and after the service I had a long talk with Mr. Yates. This Mr. Yates was in opposition to Mr. Peter Moores with whom I lived. (There was always a political pull between them and this was the cause of a great deal of trouble which led to the arrest of Mr. Moores and his imprisonment. That however was long after I had left the circuit). I came home and had some supper and went to my studies and retired at 12 o’clock. The wind eased up and became southern and milder towards evening when it snowed a little.

JANUARY 31, 1907 THURSDAY

This morning when I awoke my room floor was covered with snow. I have always slept with my window open although Mrs. Moores has objected to it all the time. Now however, I have to give in and I have promised to shut my window. I had a very busy day in the study working at several subjects. Perhaps I should say that I was supposed to write examination in May on 12 subjects for the equivalent of matriculation. Besides this I was working on all the subjects in first year theology - so that in all I was studying twenty three subjects which meant that I was always reading or studying and all of this beside preparing sermons. In the afternoon I did some visiting and gave some music lessons and had tea with Mr. & Mrs. J. Moores and their family. We had rabbit for tea. After I came home I did some work on correspondence and some Greek. So ended January.

FEBRUARY 1, 1907 FRIDAY

When I came down to breakfast I found that Mrs. Moores was too sick to get up. Mr. Moores was taking care of her. I was busy in the study. In the afternoon I went to Mrs. W? Moores and gave a music lesson. Tonight I went to prayer meeting and after prayer meeting held a building committee meeting. It was a difficult meeting and the disputations make me very sad. It was nearly eleven o’clock when I got home and midnight before I went to bed.

FEBRUARY 2, 1907 SATURDAY

Up fairly early and was busy all day preparing for preaching tomorrow.

FEBRUARY 3, 1907 SUNDAY

I was up in good time and had breakfast. I went to prayers and had good congregations. Used “Witness of the Spirit”. I came home to dinner and went back to Sunday School. I came home to tea. I had a very serious talk with Adolphus Moores. The day had been very mild but it began to blow hard. I went to the church for service and people were late on account of the storm but a good crowd assembled. I preached from l:Kings 18.12 with which I had a good time. Came home with E.A. and M.V. I retired at 11:45. Alone, thinking of England.

FEBRUARY 4, MONDAY

After breakfast I went to New Bay Head and made as many calls as possible and collected twenty dollars towards the church building fund. It was a busy day. I enjoyed the scenery. New Bay Head made the point that made the bay and was exposed to Leading Tickles and the islands off-shore. It was a desolate spot for the few families who lived there. On the way home I called at Mrs. Spencers and stayed there for tea. (This Spencer home was one of our best. Mr. & Mrs. Spencer were find Christian people. Hale, hearty and strong. They lost two sons drowned through the ice before I knew them. They had two daughters and two or three sons, all grown up when I knew them - the boys were grown up. One daughter was younger. There was a family named Whitehorn who lived near the Spencers. Mrs. Whitehorn was a widow. Her son often accompanied me on my journeys.) I collected several fees during the day. When I came home I gave some music lessons. The wind was western all day veering to north in the evening. The ice is broken up by the wind. Very frosty. Did some study. I retired at 12 o’clock.

FEBRUARY 5, 1907 TUESDAY

It was much warmer today but still cold. I spend the whole morning in the study. I went to church and found several men at work. Went to study again. Did some Greek. Very tired but pegging away. Bed at 11 o’clock.

FEBRUARY 6, 1907 WEDNESDAY

I spent most of this day in the study. The mail came in today but it was disappointing as there was nothing from England. I went to prayer meeting but only few were present. It is disappointing to have such a long walk for so few but most of the people have a long way to come and the weather is rough. We have quite a lot of snow. It is turning milder. I received a post card from Bro. Dycer(?).

FEBRUARY 7, 1907 THURSDAY

We go up fairly early and were in the study all morning. After dinner I went to South East Arm to visit. South East Arm people worshipped in the school at Cottrell’s Cove - or Cottle’s Cove - where we were building the new church and which was my place of residence when I was at home. We had several families in SEA and I collected $23.50 towards the new church. I also collected six dollars fees towards my salary. (New Bay was part of the Exploits Mission and was Home Mission Station. My salary for the year was $250.00. I was supposed to collect all I could and the Mission Grant was set. If I could not collect from the people the amount suggested by the Financial District Meeting I had to do without it as the Mission Board would not make up deficiencies). I was very late in getting home. The Northern Lights were very bright and beautiful. I had never seen anything to equal this display. Very cold and frosty. Bed at 12:15.

FEBRUARY 8, 1907 FRIDAY

I was in the study all the morning. After dinner I set off for Flurry’s Bight. Flurry’s Bight was beyond New Bay Head and between that and Fortune Harbour. On the north side were a few Protestants and on the south side a few Roman Catholics - these were connected with Fortune Harbour. In New Bay there were no Roman Catholics and in Fortune Harbour there were no Protestants. When the priest wanted to go to Leading Tickles to visit his people our men would take him over in a boat and when I want to go to Exploits their men would put across the run. The run was the Exploits River 3-4 miles wide from Northern Arm or Outer Cove or sometimes I had to walk up the shore to ?. I wanted to see Mr. Rice but when I got to his home I found that he had gone to New Bay Head. I went to see Mrs. Budgell. I also called at Mr. John Moores and gave a music lesson. We went to prayer meeting and had a splendid crowd. The Northern Lights were brilliant. I came home and started to write some letters.

FEBRUARY 9, 1907 SATURDAY

I was busy in the study most of the day. In the afternoon I walked up to the church to see how the work was going. I came back to tea and wrote some letters. I had a good day in my soul and am looking forward to tomorrow for a good time. This was a lovely day - not so cold, a little snow. The Northern Lights were beautiful but not as wonderful as last night and the night before.

FEBRUARY 10, 1907 SUNDAY

After breakfast I went to Church where I preached from “Thou Shalt Not Kill”. Some were upset I preached from experience, straight. I met the class - atmosphere warm. After dinner I went to Sunday School and we had a good company. Tonight the Church (school house ) was full and I had a good time. Collection for church fund $2.63. The singing today has been splendid. Here I might say that I had to play the organ as well as preach as I was the only person who knew a note of music and none of my pupils were yet able to play a tune. I had six pupils whom I taught absolutely free. I enjoyed playing the organ and did not mind the extra effort. I was glad to have the organ.

FEBRUARY 11, 1907 MONDAY

I stayed in bed until noon. I did not feel at all well and my side hurt. After dinner I went to give music lessons and had a pleasant afternoon. I came home and put things straight in the study. I heard good reports of yesterday’s sermons. The mail came in from Fortune Harbour. A splendid mail for me. I paid Mr. Dalton $28.60 for his first months wages. Mr. Dalton was the man whom we hired to be foreman at the church. He agreed to be foreman with the understanding that when I had money to pay him he could work and when I did not have any money with which to pay him he would stay home at Exploits and work in his own shop. He is a very good workman but he has a queer makeup and I have one or two good stories about him. Thomas Boone brought me $5.00 today for the church. I went to bed as early as possible as my side was very painful - which I put down to the strain I suffered in the fall when I went ashore in the punt. That is another story.

FEBRUARY 12, 1907 TUESDAY

In the study for an hour or so. I feel better. It is a very cold day. I visited the school. I wish we could have some milder weather as we need lumber for the church. Mrs. Budgell brought me $2.00 for the church.

FEBRUARY 13, 1907 WEDNESDAY

I was in my study most of the day. I made preparations for prayer meeting tonight. The mail came today. I had only two letters but heaps of books. We had a good congregation at Prayer meeting and a nice time. Tonight I enjoyed some light reading and the Oxford Circuit Magazine.

FEBRUARY 14, 1907 THURSDAY

Today is milder, I did not feel very bright but I worked all I could in the study. I was not out all day. Mrs. Moores sick. J. Boone brought me $4.00 for the church. Wind southerly, coming on to rain I hope.

FEBRUARY 15, 1907 FRIDAY

This was a very rough stormy day. I was busy in the study. Did some Greek. I went up to Prayer Meeting. There were not many present but for such a stormy night one could expect no more. I paid for the building of the W.C. (This was the first building that was engaged in Newfoundland when I went to New Bay. I was horrified to find that no one had a building for private purposes. Notwithstanding plenty of lumber and perfectly good workmanship and ability, for every man was a carpenter there was not a family in the whole area who had a toilet or water closet or what in England we called a Privy and as chairman of the school board I had one built on the school grounds one for the boys and one for the girls. I expected this to be a pattern for the families but it made no difference so far as I know. There were many embarrassing occasions on this account and I think that a great deal of the illness from which people suffered (constipation) etc. was caused by these conditions. However, the school children were provided with a proper toilet.) In the evening after prayer meeting I came home and went to my study.

FEBRUARY 16, 1907 SATURDAY

Not feeling first class. Went to Fortune Harbour with Adolphus Moores. Took tea with Mr. Gladly? . Came home and was in the study until 1:30 preparing for tomorrow.

FEBRUARY 17, 1907 SUNDAY

Light snow this morning. We had a good congregation. A good Sunday School and at night a good congregation and a good service. It was breezy in class but not worth notice. I came home very tired and went to bed early at 10:30 (These Sundays entailed a walk of over a mile to get to church. Tea service was held in a school room which was used all week for school purposes. We had a teacher for the full ten month; Miss Vatcher. I played all the hymns and preached and led the singing. I also conducted the “Class Meeting”. I also took charge of the Sunday School and taught the senior group. That meant walking again. Then at night the same distance to walk. So I walked at least six miles and was on my feet most of the day. There is no wonder that I was tired at night. I was not yet 21 years of age.)

FEBRUARY 18, 1907 MONDAY

I went out and gave music lessons this morning. In the afternoon I visited Boone’s Point. Just as I got home Mr. N. Moores came to see me. (This was Nehemiah). We had a long talk in the study and a very satisfactory time. He and his brother Ezra are much interested in the church and will help financially. They understand the difference between the old people and will help me. The wind came up after supper and it became colder. I was glad to get to bed.

FEBRUARY 19, 1907 TUESDAY

Was cold all night and not able to sleep because my feet were so cold. There was a very rough wind all day. Busy in study. Miss Vatcher came and stayed for tea. I was busy all evening with Greek and other studies. Wind eastern and changing to south, much milder.

FEBRUARY 20, 1907 WEDNESDAY

I went up to the church and saw Mr. Dalton and Mr. Manuel and also Mr. John Moores. Satisfactory. Preaching tonight from “If any may be in Christ he is a new creature”. Committee meeting afterwards. All well. I received $5.00 from Mr. Barr, $20.00 from Ezra Moores, $20.00 from Nehemiah Moores. Mail from England. Mother is ill. Nothing from London. Reading Joyful News. Mild, wind S.E.

FEBRUARY 21, 1907 THURSDAY

Correspondence. Very mild, sloppy. Tonight went to see Mr. James Peace (Pearce) and he gave me $10.00 for the church. Had a long talk, came home with Nehemiah Moores - tired.

FEBRUARY 22, 1907 FRIDAY

Study, Greek: all day indoors. Prayer meeting at night - good congregation.

FEBRUARY 23, 1907 SATURDAY

Too rough to travel so I had to stay at home. Preparation for Sunday. Spent some time with Mr. John Moores, Adolphus spoke to me about a certain matter. South Arm Saul ? Cuthbertin study, draughts. Mrs. Moores played 1st game, up late, tired and went to bed.

FEBRUARY 24, 1907 SUNDAY

Went to prayers. Good congregation. Had a nasty fall, hurt my knee. It was difficult to walk home. I used “Be strong therefore etc.”. A good class meeting. After Sunday School I held a meeting for the boys. Tonight I was encouraged with a good congregation. I preached from “The Prodigal son”. We had a good testimony meeting. When I went home I was very tired as my leg hurt and my head ached. Went to bed at 10:30.

FEBRUARY 25, 1907 MONDAY

My leg hurt a good deal and I did not go out in the morning. Mr. Osmond came down from North West Arm. Watched a dog fight. Adolphus sent up to say that he was going to South West Arm and I decided to go with him. We found the ox had come. We started off at 3:40, met Mr. Baggs but after a chat continued our journey. I was very much interested in the cracks in the ice. We arrived just as the folks were having tea. 7:15. I was very pleased to learn that the church was prospering and that so many souls are saved. Went to see Mark Stuckless. I went and bought some clapboard. Went to see Mr. Hutchcroft. Came back to supper and was glad to get to bed. Milder. A long day and quite a lot of work accomplished.

FEBRUARY 26, 1907 TUESDAY

A very stormy morning. Snowing and blowing but I had to go out to try to buy some clapboard for the new church in Cottrell’s Cove, New Bay. I went to see John Shirran to get the loan of his ox but he was not a home. Then I went to see Mr. George who offered me the loan of his when Mr. Rice should come down. I visited Mrs. Rice who is ill. Then I came home to Mr. William Baggs to dinner. It was the custom for the minister to stay at Mr. Baggs home. The school master boarded there and as the school master was also the lay reader the minister could occupy the same bed. After dinner I went out again and found Mr. Stuckless and found that he had only 2 m clapboard. Then I went to Mr. Hutchcroft who let me have 2 m more at $8.00 (or $9.00) per m and gave me two dollar donation. This clapboard was No 1 spruce. (What a small price to pay for good No 1 lumber. How different today 1960) (how different today 1992). I went to church and preached to a good company. We had a good time. I met the new converts and did all I could to encourage them. I came home and went to bed. A hard day’s work done. Did some reading.

FEBRUARY 27. 1907 WEDNESDAY

This was a lovely morning. Wind south west by west. I went to see Mr. Rice and engaged him to haul the lumber down to New Bay. Then we started to walk home to New Bay. We walked under the shore. It was pleasant with a fair wind. We reached home soon after 2 and were glad to have some dinner. Then a shave and a clean up. Then attended to some letters and got ready for church. There was a nice congregation to whom I preached about Paul’s conversion, Saul’s conversation. Then we had a choir practice and away home for some supper, bed and reading.

FEBRUARY 28, 1907 THURSDAY

I had intended to go to North West Arm this morning but it was too cold to venture out to walk over the open bay. Then message came that I was needed by Mr. and Mrs. Cox to baptize their baby Clara Pearl Cox. I started to walk to New Bay Head. It was very, very cold. Mr. Sanger was with me. I was home in time for tea after which I got down to study. I wrote to some friends in Watlington. At 1:30 I quit work and went to bed.

MARCH 1, 1907 FRIDAY

It was still too cold to go to North West Arm so I started to study. I went out and gave some music lessons. Then I went to prayer meeting. I had a very bad fall. Adolphus came home with me and stayed a few minutes. Mr. Churchill sent his fees. Wind changed from north to north west.

MARCH 2, 1907 SATURDAY

I was up fairly early and prepared to go to Leading Tickles. Had dinner at home then went to see Adolphus and we started at 2:40 and went by way of Budgell’s Brook and arrived on Rowsell’s Island at 6:20. We had a very pleasant evening. Miss Rowsell paid her fee $5.00. I found I had to sleep with Arthur and we got to bed at 11:45. It was a little milder with a little snow and a south west wind.

MARCH 3, 1907 SUNDAY

I stayed in bed until 9 or past. A great storm was raging with lots of snow and the fences covered. There were only 6 in church (in a home). I used Gen.18. In the afternoon we went to Burnt Island. I fell into the tickle. I did some visiting. We had prayers after tea but only a few were present on account of the bad weather. We came back to Rowsell’s Island to spend the night. Arthur was away and I miss talking to him. The weather became much milder and the wind dropped.

MARCH 4, 1907 MONDAY

I got early and after breakfast prepared to return to New Bay. We had some practice shooting before we went. We started form home at 10:45 and reached home at 2:45. I had a splendid dinner at Mrs. J. Moores. Gave some music lessons. Came home for tea. Spent evening with Mr. Moores as I was too tired to study. We had a cold north wind all day and walking was difficult. Wind calmed down towards evening. To bed at 11:15.

MARCH 5, 1907 TUESDAY

I was expecting the Rev. Robert Maddock, my superintendent, but he did not come. I had a good deal of pain in my eyes caused by the reflection of the light on the snow or by so much reading. As Mr. Maddock did not come I settled down to my study of history which I quite enjoyed. I was not out all day as there was a cold wind from the north and I wanted to get some work done on my books. I went to bed at 12:15. Somewhat tired after a hard day’s study.

MARCH 6, 1907 WEDNESDAY

I worked in the study all morning. After dinner the mail came in. It had been brought over land from Botwoodville. There were no letters from England. This was a very rough stormy day. I prepared for the evening service at which we had only about a dozen present. After the service we had practice for the entertainment and we were home at 10:40. It was blowing a gale from the northeast. I went to work and retired at 2:30.

MARCH 7, 1907 THURSDAY

The gale increased with an awfully hard wind. I worked almost all day at History until after tea when I did some Greek and studied the dialogues. I am glad to be able to stay indoors from this terrible wind and cold. I did some preparation for the entertainment and went to bed at 1 o’clock.

MARCH 8, 1907 FRIDAY T

his had been another tough day. Wind and snow. I stayed close to the study all day and worked at Greek. Tonight I went to prayer meeting. Quite a fair number were out considering the weather. I made plans to go to South West Arm tomorrow.

MARCH 9, 1907 SATURDAY

We started for South West Arm calling at Boone’s Point and South East Arm. Garland and I went on and allowed ? And ? to catch up to us. We reached Mr. Britts where we had some tea. Called at houses on the way up. Went to post office and found some letters from home and a bible as a birthday present with which I was very pleased. Mr. Hutchcroft as usual was very considerate (gave me one priven?) And after supper we went over to the lodge and then home to tea.

MARCH 10, 1907 SUNDAY

I walked across the arm and across the neck to Southern Arm where I preached to about 30 people from Gen. 18:25. Walked back to dinner - 3 miles each way. After dinner went to church where there were 50 people present to whom I preached from ? Then went to tea. In the evening I preached from St. Luke 15:20 to over 60 people. We had a very good time. I called on Mr. A. Shirrian and on Mrs. John Sherman who is sick. I reached home at 11:30 and had some supper and went to bed tired and soon fell asleep.

MARCH 11, 1907 MONDAY

Started for New Bay and sent to S. Arm where I baptized Rebecca Susanna. When I asked the father to name this child he said “Rebecca Suzanne sir”. I went on to Mr. Rolf’s and had lunch there. He gave me a donation for Missions. Then I started for home which I reached at 6 o’clock. I as told that Mr. Maddocks had just gone down to Mrs. Moores. He came up after tea and stayed until 11 o’clock. We made arrangements to decide tomorrow what to do. After he had gone I wrote some letters and did some study until 1:50. Tired and went to bed and to sleep.

MARCH 12, 1907 TUESDAY

This is my brother Fred’s birthday. I wish him many happy returns of the day. After breakfast I made arrangements to bury Mr. Boone’s child tomorrow. I saw Bro. Maddock and made arrangements with Mr. Malichi Moores to go with him to South West Arm. Saw N and J who promised to help me. Came home to dinner after which I was in the study.

MARCH 13, 1907 WEDNESDAY

The weather was too bad for Mr. Maddock to go to South West Arm. I was busy during the morning and in the afternoon I went to South East Arm to bury Arthur Boone. Bro. Maddock was up after tea. I worked in my study until 1 o’clock.

MARCH 14, 1907 THURSDAY

I started off to see Bro. Maddock and got Malachi Moores and . Whitehorn and dog to go with us. We had a fine time up and had prayers in Bobby’s Cove. Bro. Maddock used St. John 10:10. After prayers a nice chat and to our bedroom at 12 o’clock. (Bobby’s Cove was one of three little communities in that area - on the western end of the bay.). We passed up the shore by Mr. Britt’s and Mr. Rolf’s. (These men grew potatoes which they shipped to the mines at Tilt Cove. On the way home one day two of Mr. Rolf’s sons were drowned as they tried to warp up the arm. The anchor took them down. Then there was the little settlement of families by the name of Warford where we usually met for service. Then in Bobby’s Cove there was a very respectable family by the name of Tucker who were really Church of England. It was here that we slept that night. I can remember that home tonight more than 53 years ago. They were always good to any minister who called.)

MARCH 15, 1907 FRIDAY (21ST BIRTHDAY)

Woke and had a chat with Mr. Maddock after which I got up. Mr. Thompson wanted a paper signed and Mr. Maddock made out an affidavit to which Mr. Thompson swore his oath. We then had breakfast after which Mr. Maddock and I walked to South West Arm. We went to Mr. Hutchcroft’s where we had dinner. (This place is now called Leamington. It was called Point Leamington years ago but I don’t know why the Point, as there was no point there. The water in this arm is very deep and ocean going vessels could dock there. It was said that the hills were rich in copper.) We went over to Mr. Baggs and met Bro. Waterman, our school teacher, on the way. After tea we went to prayers and decided to hold our Missionary Meeting on Saturday - tomorrow. Then we went home to Mr. Baggs and I played the organ and had some supper and went to bed at 12 o’clock. (Mrs. Tucker gave me a pair of vamps for a birthday present and Miss Warford gave me $.60 for a birthday present. I am now 21 years of age; a man. (How different was this birthday from those I spent in England with those whom I loved and to whom I belonged.)

MARCH 16, 1907 SATURDAY

Busy all day visiting and preparing for the Missionary Meeting. We went to Mr. Hutchcroft’s to tea. We had a really good time at the Missionary meeting and were ten dollars ahead of last year. During the day I wrote letters home. Went to bed at 2 o’clock.

MARCH 17, 1907 SUNDAY

Up just in time to catch dogs and came down as far as T. Arm Point. I left the dogs there and walked the rest of the way and to school in time for a sing and then home to tea. Then I came back to the church and conducted the service and preached.

MARCH 18, 1907 MONDAY

Not a bit well and stayed in bed until 2 o’clock. Then I had to prepare for the party. We had a nice time. Then we went for a practice and back to supper and a happy hour with the young people.

MARCH 19, 1907 TUESDAY

Had a good day visiting. I drew up a petition to House. I visited South East Arm and baptised Elsie White and went to the Arm. Then I went to the school to practice until 11 o’clock. Then I went home and had some tea and went to bed.

MARCH 20, 1907 WEDNESDAY

Got ready for the entertainment. I was busy all day. We had tea early. The weather was bad. In fact there was an awful storm. Snow, snow, snow. There were not many out the entertainment but the programme went off well and we all had a good time. We raised $10.21. It was an awful walk home. The fellows had a lot of fun carrying me out of the school. Home and comfort by the fire. Went to bed at 2 o’clock.

MARCH 21, 1907 THURSDAY

I was tired but spent the day in my study. In the evening I went to Miss E. Moores party where we had a nice time. Blowing and snowing outside. After coming home I attended to some correspondence. Went to bed at 1 o’clock. An awfully rough day.

MARCH 22, 1907 FRIDAY

It was too rough to leave for Exploits. Snow and blowing. I went up to the school for prayer meeting but no one was there. I was busy in the study all day and did my best to make plans to go to Exploits tomorrow.

MARCH 23, 1907 SATURDAY

Blowing and snowing, could not possibly go to Exploits. I wrote to Mr. Maddock and Mr. Bond and worked in the study and made preparations for tomorrow.

MARCH 24, 1907 SUNDAY

Blowing a gale. Huge drifts of snow. I went as far as Mr. Churchill’s and had to stay there. We had some music and reading. Preparing Missionary Meeting addresses. I spent the evening reading and went early to bed.

MARCH 25, 1907 MONDAY

Reading and studying all day. At night I was able to make arrangements to go to Exploits in the morning. It was a fine day but windy. I went down the road after tea to make sure of getting away in the morning.

MARCH 26, 1907 TUESDAY

I was up early and had breakfast. At 8 o’clock we set off. A. & H. Moores, Mrs. Carol of Fortune Harbour gave us some nice tea. We reached Exploits and had some dinner. Bro. Maddock home and with him was Bro. Mumford whom I was very pleased to meet. We spent a very pleasant evening.

MARCH 27, 1907 WEDNESDAY

Exploits Missionary Meetings. Busy all day. Made arrangements for meeting. Went to see the doctor. Went to the ? And was curate for Bro. Mumford. We had a very fine service. This afternoon I went to see the doctor and spent a happy time with him. We came home and after a bite of supper retired in good time.

MARCH 28, 1907 THURSDAY

We were busy getting ready for Sampson’s Island but after dinner it came on the snow and we were not able to go. I got down to my books and put in some time in study.

MARCH 29, 1907 GOOD FRIDAY

This morning I preached from St. Luke 23:33 and had a good time. We spent some time shovelling snow. We prepared for missionary meeting. Mr. Maddock and Mr. Mumford and I addressed the meeting. We had a splendid meeting and a good collection $42.87. Mr. & Mrs. Maddock were very much pleased. At 12 o’clock we went to bed tired but happy.

MARCH 30, 1907 SATURDAY

We were busy all morning. We started at 2 o’clock to go to Black Island. We walked all the way. After tea we went to the meeting. We had a fine meeting with the collection better than last year. After the meeting Mr. Maddock and Mr. Mumford left for home. I was left behind. I had a chat and prayers and to bed.

MARCH 31, 1907 EASTER SUNDAY

We were up and after breakfast I went to church. My first Easter Sunday in Newfoundland on an island among absolute strangers. I preached from 1 Cor. 15 on the Resurrection Went to dinner with Mr. Primer and then to afternoon prayers and then tea with Mr. Dorey. After the evening service I had a personal talk with two young men. Then we had a bite of supper and started for Exploits. The dogs brought me as far as Taylor’s Head from whence I walked home. Supper and so to bed. What a difference from last Easter.

APRIL 1, 1907 MONDAY

I was thinking of last Easter at Wallington C.C. Year before at C.C. Hunstlum(?). I rose at 9 o’clock but I was very tired from my walk last night and my Sunday at Black Island. I spent the morning writing some letters. I was busy in the afternoon with some studies. I went to Mrs. Manuels to tea and then to practice and then to Mrs. M. to supper. Home at 12 o’clock.

APRIL 2, 1907 TUESDAY

I rose and prepared for church. This was the first Orange church Service that have seen. I played the organ. The choir did well. After dinner I went to the hall after which I had tea and then went to Mr. Sceviour and Mr. Dalton. I came back to the hall where I gave an address and some recitations. Home at 11:30.

APRIL 4, 1907 THURSDAY

Started from home. Dogs could not haul the sled with me on it as the snow was so heavy. We reached Northern Head safely. A new storm came on but we reached Fortune Harbour safely. It was a very hard walk. We had some tea and came on to Mr. Quirks and to Mr. Wiseman’s. Then to Mr. Manuel’s. Then home. Tired, weary, ill. Supper. A glorious mail. Bed.

APRIL 5, 1907 FRIDAY

I stayed in bed until 1 o’clock. Had a severe pain in my side and put on a mustard plaster. (I think I should say here that I was troubled all that fall with a severe pain in my right side which I considered due to a strain sustained in the early fall when I got blown ashore in a punt. In order to relieve the pain I frequently walked to my appointments with a mustard plaster on my side to relieve the pain. I have since wondered whether it was not appendicitis and that it afterwards flared up in Farnham when I was so ill after the appendix was removed by operation.) I felt very ill all day, went over last night’s mail and answered some letters.

APRIL 6, 1907 SATURDAY

The pain was easier but the poultice was uncomfortable. I was busy all day. Miss Vatcher was in and helped me with some copying. I did some study and some correspondence and prepared my sermons for tomorrow.

APRIL 7, 1907 SUNDAY

What a day! I never saw such a storm of snow and wind. Huge drifts of snow made walking impossible. No one could get out. No church service possible. Music and reading occupied the day. Bed at 11 o’clock.

APRIL 8, 1907 MONDAY

The wind dropped but snow continued but not so heavily. I was indoors all day. Worked steadily in study preparing for examinations.

APRIL 9, 1907 TUESDAY

I had awful headache. Spent the afternoon in the study. Went out to give music lessons. A.M. Esq. gave $20.00 for church.

APRIL 10, 1907 WEDNESDAY

Up in good time. Very busy in study all day. In the afternoon prepared sermon for tonight. Went to church but there not enough present for a service. Came home with ?? And played draughts.

APRIL 11, 1907 THURSDAY

Mailman brought only one letter for me. I studied most of the day and wrote a few letters. Miss Vatcher and Miss Ernie came up after tea and we had some music and singing. I was not out all day.

APRIL 12, 1907 FRIDAY

This morning I was busy in the study. In the afternoon I went to see Mr. William Moores and got $20.00 for the church. Then I went to see Willie Clark and Lieut. Alcock. Then I went to prayers and preached from “They were all filled with the Holy Ghost”. Came home with Mr. N. Moores. Supper and writing. Prepared to go to Leading Tickles. Went to bed at 1 o’clock.

APRIL 13, 1907 SATURDAY

I arose at 6 o’clock and had breakfast. At 8 o’clock we started for Leading Tickles. Had a nice walk and was in good time for dinner. I visited Burnt Island and preached there at night from John 3:16. We had a good congregation and a good time. Arthur gone again.

APRIL 14, 1907 SUNDAY

Arose in good time and took breakfast. We had a good congregation and a good time. Snowing and soft turning to rain. We went to Burnt Island for afternoon service. We came back to Rowsell’s Island and had tea. Evening prayers and preaching went well. $2.00 collection. It has been a happy day - a very nice day. Arthur not here. I miss him. APRIL 15, 1907 MONDAY Rose early and had breakfast. Miss Rowsell, Isreal and I had some shooting practice. Miss R best today. Mr. Israel Rowsell walked with me to Thimble Tickles. It was very heavy walking. I bade him good bye on the neck and he returned home and I went on to N.W. Arm alone. I reached Mr. Yates at about dinner time and went on to Mr. Osmond’s for dinner. I then visited all nine houses in the Arm and preached at night. Mr. Osmond was in bed and I did not see him. I received the money from Miss Osmond.

APRIL 16, 1907 TUESDAY

I arose soon after 6 o’clock and after breakfast started for New Bay. Walking on the ice was good until we got to Little N.W. Arm when it became very heavy. Home at about 11 o’clock. I had a bath and went to bed for a while. Frequently after a long walk I would go to bed. Mrs. Moores could never understand why I did this. She wanted me to eat my dinner. She thought that if I were tired I should eat my dinner and so get strength. I told here that my stomach was as tired as my feet and legs. After a couple of hours in bed I would get up and pick up my work for the day. I worked in the study until midnight.

APRIL 17, 1907 WEDNESDAY

Very busy all day in the study. Received a letter from Mr. Mumford. Tonight there was a good congregation for the preaching service. The work was so far advanced on the church that we had a meeting tonight to prepare to shingle the roof.

APRIL 18, 1907 THURSDAY

Busy in the study. Mail from home, nice letters made me homesick and lonely. Mr. Fox, a travelling photographer, took my photograph in the study. Examinations looming up. 22 of them, Oh my!

APRIL 19, 1907 FRIDAY

Correspondence. Studying, visiting, I went up to the church. I sent Mr. Clark to Exploits to get the doctor. I was busy studying for exams.

APRIL 20, 1907 SATURDAY

Busy in the morning. Miss Vatcher came in the evening. I was studying all day, Greek etc. Doing preparation for tomorrow.

APRIL 21, 1907 SUNDAY

After breakfast I went to prayer. Snowing hard. We had 25 men in the congregation and one woman. We had a nice service and a good class meeting. I came home to dinner and went back to Sunday School. After that we had singing practice - home to tea and then back to the church for service. There was a fairly good congregation for such a terrible night. Collection $1.10. I was said by one that it was the best meeting of the whole winter. We went home for a rest and some supper and to bed.

APRIL 22, 1907 MONDAY

Not at all well. Stayed in bed until dinner, I was busy in the afternoon in the study but could not do very much.

APRIL 23, 1907 TUESDAY

I felt better but not much. I did what I could be could not keep at it. It turned milder.

APRIL 24, 1907 WEDNESDAY

Feeling quite ill and stayed in bed until 11 o’clock. The mail came in and I received a good share. I wrote some letters but could do no study. I was very weary and tired. It turned milder and came on to rain and blow.

APRIL 25, 1907 FRIDAY

Not feeling at all well but kept about. I did some work. I went to prayers at night. I was very tired. There were no people there so I came home. I wrote to Mr.Britt and to bed tired.

APRIL 27, 1907 SATURDAY

Did not get up until late as I still felt ill. I did a little work. I received a note from Miss Vatcher.

APRIL 28, 1907 SUNDAY

Feeling much better. Good congregation at church. I used Rom. 3:31 and had a nice time. We came home on the ice. Miss E. nearly fell in. After dinner we went to Sunday School - had a nice lesson. Miss Prudence Moores played the organ. I stayed at Mrs. Manuel’s to tea. I became quite hoarse and was quite ill but was able to get through alright. I used Isa. 55:67. Went home for supper. We had a splendid day. Went to bed early.

APRIL 29, 1907 MONDAY

I was so hoarse that I could not speak. Mrs. Moores rubbed my chest with liniment which eased the pain. Miss E. Came to tell me about Nettie and her bad hand. Nettie came up in the afternoon. Her finger is very bad. Certainly some innards infection is indicated. Used (?) B. For a few days then will substitute. It is impossible for me to open a book for I am so weary. I feel ill all over but the pain in my chest is worse than anything else. Lieut Alcock died at noon today. It is sad.

APRIL 30, 1907 TUESDAY

Feeling very sadly with very bad pains in my chest and in fact in all my limbs. Quite a bad cold. I came downstairs at 10 o’clock and tried to do a little of this and that. There is a stiff off-shore breeze and the snow is going fast.

MAY 1, 1907 WEDNESDAY

My cold is still holding on and I was glad to stay indoors all day. I was too sick to take the service but as it is raining hard it does not matter as no one can go to church so there will be no prayers. I have been dizzy at times throughout the day.

MAY 2, 1907 THURSDAY

Feeling much better today. I attended the funeral of Lieut. Alcock. It took quite a long time. I came home tired and hungry. I worked until late. An inshore wind brought the ice in.

MAY 3, 1907 FRIDAY

Not as well as yesterday but getting better. Letters came from Bro. Maddock and Dr. Overton. I am to go to Exploits to write my examinations so I will prepare tomorrow. I hope we shall be able to make it alright.

MAY 4, 1907 SATURDAY

At 5:15 Mrs. Moores called me and I got up and had eggs for breakfast and at 5:55 we left the house and started our walk to Exploits. We reached Fortune Harbour at 7:45 and Mr. Hamilton had us go in and made us a cup of tea. We left at 8:20 and walked to Walden’s Cove. Mr. Ned Sever (or Lever) put me over the run in his punt. The run is the mouth of the Exploits River and is about four miles wide. It is, of course, open sea and is sometimes very dangerous but this day was favourable and we had a lovely time in the boat. We landed at Sargent’s Cove and Mrs. Jones had us go in and she made some tea for us. Elihu harnessed up his dog to a sled and hauled my valise over Bro. Maddocks. I walked over the ice in the harbour. Someone should have warned me. It was black and very dangerous and people on the shore were watching me fearfully. However, I got across without falling through but I learned never to trust black ice again. I reached the parsonage in time for dinner so all in all it was a good trip. I had a rest and played some music for Mr. & Mrs. Maddock. Then I did some reading. Mr. Dalton came to see me about the work on the church in New Bay and we had a long talk about everything connected with it. At eventide I did some brushing up with some of my subjects and sent to bed at 10:30. I was tired after such a long walk and so much discussion and a bit weary but I felt right at home. I wonder how the folks at home would like to be here. It’s quite different from London or Oxford or Lavenham.

MAY 5,1907 SUNDAY

We were up in nice time and we had breakfast together. I preached in church from Matt. 22:42. I spent the afternoon at home. In the evening I played the organ. Bro. Maddock preached from John 6:52-53. After the service some of the young men came in. Messrs. Purchase and Milley. We had some music and singing. We retired at 11:30. This was a good day.

MAY 6, 1907 MONDAY

It is now 12:15 midnight. This is the first day of my examinations. I am filled with wonder as to how I shall spend the day and with what success. I shall pursue my labours. Bro. Maddock has been very kind and I have enjoyed the past day. No mention of exams to cause worry has been made; but little drifts of encouragement. I do not feel very nervous. I realize that I am in God’s hands and that I have done my duty day by day; and I intend to trust God and my brethren. Also to abide by this “Build a little fence of trust around today”. I shall be glad when it is gone but while it continues I have the promise “so I am with thee always” Lord I am thy servant. Help me. Amen. 4:30pm I have done Wesley’s Sermons and Roman History. Now I am off for a run. 11:40pm. The first day’s work with examinations is done. I think it will be alright. God has been very good. Bro. Maddock has been very thoughtful and took me for a walk. I did Grecian History after tea. I wonder how my folks at home are? Wesley’s Sermons, Roman History and History of Greece are over. Now to bed and to get some sleep. (Here I would like to say that in August, 1906, after I landed I was told that I would be expected to write the examinations necessary for an equivalent for matriculation and also certain Theological subjects in May. I obtained these books from Mr. Pike but they were lost in transit and I did not get them until September or October. But I was so ambitious or simple-minded that I entered for my first year’s Theology as well as for the first year’s work. So that I found myself with no less than 22 examinations to write. My field was extensive and scattered and all through the year I had worked very hard at these book. My hardest task was to learn Greek. I had no one to teach me but I did very well and made a lst class for the year.)

MAY 8, 1907 WEDNESDAY 5 p.m.

Have just finished my paper on catechism and New Testament quotations. This morning I did my paper on Geography. I am glad this is over. I expect to take another paper after tea. 12 midnight I did my first paper for my First year, i.e. “New Testament and its Writers” McClymont. Have been plugging at Eudlid. Hope I can get through tomorrow. I am feeling tied but Bro. Maddock is very kind.

MAY 9, 1907 THURSDAY

I have just been for a walk with Mr. & Mrs. Maddock and I am feeling better for it and I must now make preparations for Epworth league tonight. This morning I wrote my Euclid examinations. I think I got on very well. Then I did my sermon sketch. After dinner I wrote the paper on the Organized Sunday School. Now I have finished my first year’s homeleties. I hope I can do the rest. 11:45. I have been to Epworth League. I had a good time but my chest is bad. I have been in to Mrs. J. Manuels and have thoroughly enjoyed super. Now I am going to take a draught which Bro. Maddock has given me for my chest as I want to do a good days work tomorrow.

MAY 10, 1907 FRIDAY

This morning I took two papers. Wesley’s Sermons and Old Testament History. I’m not feeling a bit well. My chest is still very painful. This afternoon I want to do another and then another tonight. I hope I get through as I don’t want this bother next year. At dinner time Mr. Maddock suggested that I should take a rest and to the rest of my papers next week as the continual strain would be too much for me. So this afternoon I wrote some letters and went Mr. & Mrs. Maddock to see Mrs. Manuel. Tonight I attended the prayer meeting at which I gave a short address. After we came home from prayer meeting I studied Christian Perfection which I hope to write tomorrow. I am feeling much better than I did last Friday.

MAY 11, 1907 SATURDAY

This morning I was up at 8 o’clock and was reading until 12 o’clock when I wrote the paper on Christian Perfection. After dinner I went to see the doctor and he gave me some tablets for my chest and throat. Now I must do some plugging at Steeles. 11:55 I just came upstairs. I have done nothing at Steeles as the Portia came in and I went down to see her. Then the schooner was launched. After that we had tea. After tea I began to copy my sermon for exams and have just finished. Now I must prepare for bed. How different from last Saturday night. I have the burden of sixteen papers off my head for a time at least. It is blowing hard.

MAY 12, 1907 SUNDAY

I was up in good time and preached in the morning from Matt 16:24. We had a very good congregation. In the afternoon I attended the prayer meeting. At night I read the scripture lesson and assisted in the Reception Service and also in the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. I quite enjoyed the service. Bro. Maddock preached an appropriate sermon. After we came home I did some reading and thinking of home and loved ones there. I went to bed tired.

MAY 13, 1907 MONDAY

I did not get up early. After breakfast I did some study and wrote my examination on Steele’s Antinomianism. I was pleased with the paper. I then studied Greek until 5:30 when I went with Mr. Maddock to Mr. Manuel’s. I expect to do my Greek paper tomorrow. It’s late now and must try to get some sleep.

MAY 14, 1907 TUESDAY 11 pm.

Thank God sincerely that examinations are over. I finished Greek today at 4:45. It was a stiff paper. I am wondering what the results will be. I can do what Dr. Dunn advised me to do. viz. “Trust God” and my Brethren God has been good. Mr. & Mrs Maddock have been very kind and I appreciate all that they have done to make my stay enjoyable. Tonight I took tea with Mr & Mrs. Lyver and had a nice time.

MAY 15, 1907 WEDNESDAY

We started to return to New Bay but found some ice in lower harbour and so could not leave. We hoped that the wind would die down and that we could leave in the afternoon but it still blew hard and we could not go. We went to se Mrs. Purchase and Mrs. Butt. After tea we went to prayers on the other side.

MAY 16, 1907 THURSDAY

The men were along early. There was still ice in lower harbour so we came around the island and across the run. Saw Mr. Lyver who came with me across the neck. The men put me across to Waldron’s Cove where I said goodbye to Mr. Secicier and Mr. ????? I came to Fortune Harbour where I had a rest at Mr. Hamilton’s. Had some tea there and a game of draughts and started for home. I overtook C and H Moores who helped me with my parcels. They told me all about the revival. I was glad to be home after such a long absence since Saturday the 4th during which time I have written 22 examinations. It was a hard walk from Exploits in the snow and the slush and I was tired enough. I was soon busy working with two weeks mail to catch up on. But I could not do very much.

MAY 17, 1907 FRIDAY

I was busy all day in my study. I was expecting the Clyde so could not leave home to go very far as my plans were to go to Leading Tickles for Missionary Meetings with Bro. Maddock. Clyde did not come. I went to prayers at night and had a nice time although some of the people who did not know I was home were over at the barracks.

MAY 18, 1907 SATURDAY

We heard the steamer blow in Fortune Harbour. I got up and shaved and had breakfast and went to the wharf and joined Mr. Maddock on the Clyde. I got my mail before we left. In Leading Tickles we called at Mrs. Alcock’s and Mrs. ? Young. Mr. Butcher put us up in punt to Mr. Lanning’s. We had some tea there and a long chat. Then we went on to Rowsell’s Island. The People there were very pleased to have us. I did some visiting on Burnt Island. I enjoyed meeting the people in their homes again. We had a splendid Missionary Meeting the results were $30.00 compared with $21.85 for last year. Everybody happy.

MAY 19, 1907 SUNDAY

I rose at 6:30 and had breakfast.. I came back to New Bay and arrived at 10:30. Arthur Rowsell and John Foster came with me. I went to church and preached from “Give us this Day our Daily Bread”. In the afternoon I took the Sunday School as Miss E. Was too ill to go. In the evening I preached from “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a net”.