oa aera te mbat We yacntine movi gemcmrnus ew /miL awn sinin, | | gymcnnurensnwt tartar yeas afi FiEeedcwmamewnenes = . Pe Pr i at “ f i ( i ay oh NG PI Se a A OF de te ec Ea Ry Gh re arent meme eLe ; Santa aah, Mec ceraitneret cr orunaarae dt erwrmitet as. mepint erage sonny, AY * May) | gtemon tact reper nr wine ncan ais 9 Nua} : : o ‘ } : Rae Raye uh a. Pua TOT SL WIE We BS CORT SA BLES BO, A «eT prae seem wep ie ce ) , 4 W435 te “ eee eryy fp Se EN SS SS Sais Se f Qos ae arrwent SESR x, HOT ERR WF ae PT, Ane Lem eer Maer ta. i een on nr ierancoiio manna meme ra eae Library of The Theological Seminary PRINCETON : NEW JERSEY =<) Fe] pan tea rg eed AMERICAN BOOKSHELF 1. Samuel Sewall’s Diary. 2. The Life and Virtues of General George Washington, by Parson Weems. 3. Father Abraham’s Speech, Poor Richard, and Bagatelles, by Benjamin Franklin. 4. Journey to the Land of Eden, and Other Papers, by William Byrd. 5. Travels Through North and South Carolina, Georgia, East and West Florida, by William Bartram. 6. Nick of the Woods, by Robert Montgomery Bird. THIS SERIES EDITED BY MARK VAN DOREN MANUFACTURED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND COPY- RIGHT IN 1927 BY MACY-MASIUS: PUBLISHERS First Printing, September, 1927. Second Printing, November. 1927, The Diary of Samuel Sewall. of which the present volume is an abridgement, was first published in three volumes by the Massachusetts Historical Society (1878-1882). It is the most intimate record now available of life in New England during the important period which it covers, and the genius of the author for self-revelation has frequently won him the com- pliment of a comparison with Samuel Pepys, his English con- temporary. One difference between the two Diaries, however, is that while that of Pepys was kept for only ten years, that of Sewall covers the major portion of his life. Sewall was born in England in 1652. He came to New England at the age of nine, studied divinity at Harvard, entered the ministry, married, and thereafter devoted himself to public affairs. He held numerous offices in the Massachusetts colony, becoming in 1692 a judge of the Superior Court, and in 1718 its Chief Justice. He died in Boston in 1730. He was involved in the legal machinery which condemned the Salem witches to death, but later published a recantation, standing in church while it was read. ‘The Diary is valuable not only for its picture of public life between 1680 and 1730 but for its picture of the author himself in the privacy of his confessional. His relations with his wife and their fifteen children, his journies to towns outside of Boston, his business observations, his devotions, and especially his full account towards the close of his famous courtship of Madam Winthrop—these, with innumerable minor details, are the materials of a rich and appealing narrative. ’ q ‘ M. V. D. Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2021 with funding from Princeton Theological Seminary Library https://archive.org/details/samuelsewallsdia00sewa April 4, 1675, Sab. day. I holp preach for my Master, [Mr. Parker] in the afternoon. Being afraid to look on the glass, ignorantly and unwillingly I stood two hours and a half. April 29 Brother John and Sister Hafiah Sewall begin to keep house at the Falls. My Father having found things out of order at the Little Farm, viz, Fences down, ground Eaten and rooted up by Cattle and hogs, and wanting a good Tenant, the Season of the year now spending, resolves and goes to live there, notwithstand- ing the littleness and unpretines of the home. July 31, at midnight, Tho. Wood, Carpenter of Rowly, had his house and goods burnt, and, ve malum, a daughter of about 10 years of age, who directed her brother so that he got out, was herself consumed to ashes. This said Saturday night, in a dream, I fancyed myself to have Mrs. Richardson’s child in my arms, and herself follow- ing me up a pair of stairs going to heaven, all sorrowfull and weeping. I went up innumerable steps and %cill saw nothing, so that I was discouraged, doubting with myself whether there was such a place as sedes beatorum. Yet I strengthened myself as well as I could, considering how apt things only heard of are to be doubted (if difficultly obtained and not of a long time) though they be never so true. “Thus thinking, I went on; at last I came to a fair chamber with goodly lodgings. When I saw that was all, I earnestly prayed that God would help us, or else we should never get to our journey’s end. Amazed I was, not being able to conceive how furniture should be brought 8 SEWALL’S DIARY up those stairs so high. Afterward it was a chamber in the N. Building, [at the College], after, part of an old [house] (Goff, as I take it) that joined to it, of the same height. A schollar told me that those things were drawn up by a pully, and so took in at a window which was all ranshacled like that in Goff Colledge over the Fellows’ chamber, and all things began to seem more vile. Nov. 11. Morning proper fair, the wether exceedingly benign, but (to me) metaphoric, dismal, dark and portentous, some prodigie appearing in every corner of the skies. Father went to Attach Ben Goodridge, at which (as all) so especially Mother, troubled and disswaded him. N. B. Tuesday, Dec. 21, 1675, about the time of the Eclips Sister Sewall was delivered in my chamber of a daughter, Goodwife Brown being Midwife. Saturday Even. Aug. 12, 1676, just as prayer ended Tim. Dwight sank down in a Swoun, and for a good space was as if he perceived not what was done to him: after, kicked and sprawled, knocking his hands and feet upon the floor like a distracted man. Was carried pickpack to bed by John Alcock, there his cloaths pulled off. In the night it seems he talked of ships, his master, father, and unckle Eliot. The Sabbath fol- lowing Father went to him, spake to him to know what ailed him, asked if he would be prayed for, and for what he would desire his friends to pray. He answered, for more sight of sin, and God’s healing grace. I asked him, being alone with him, whether his troubles were from some outward cause or spiritual. He answered, spiritual. I asked him why then he could not tell it his master, as well as any other, since it is the honour of any man to see sin and be sorry for it. He gave no answer, as I remember. Asked him if he would goe to meeting. He said, ‘twas in vain for him; his day was out. I asked, what day: he answered, of Grace. I told him ’twas sin for any one to con- clude themselves Reprobate, that this was all one. He said he would speak more, but could not, &c. Notwithstanding all SEWALL’S DIARY 9 this semblance (and much more than is written) of com- punction for Sin, ’tis to be feared that his trouble arose from a maid whom he passionately loved: for that when Mr. Dwight and his master had agreed to let him goe to her, he eftsoons grew well. Friday, Aug. 25. I spake to Tim of this, asked him whether his convictions were off. He answered, no. I told him how dangerous it was to make the convictions wrought by God’s spirit a stalking horse to any other thing. Broke off, he being called away by Sam. Oct. 10. Last night, H. $.1 somewhat feverish, slept not so well as formerly, yet indifferently; cheerly notwithstanding, this day. Violent rain and cold. Oct. 13. Mother and wife had a good night. Mement. Made an Hen Coop. Mr. Clark came and stood by me. Oct. 14. Last night very comfortable to wife and Mother. Oct. 15, a good night. 16. Good night. Mr. Brackenbury, the 17%. Best night that mother has yet had, slept without so much as dreaming. 18, 19, 20, all Good nights. Mother conversant in the Kit- chen and our chamber. My Wife every day since the Sabbath goes to Mothers chamber without hurt. 21 Good night, all Hands. Oct. 23. Went from Boston about five T. P. to Milton, there accidentally meeting with Moses Collier, Mr. Senderlen and I went on to Hingham, to John Jacobs. Oct. 24, Tues- day, went from thence to Plymouth, about noon; refreshed there. Note, James Percival met us there, and so we went cheerfully together from thence about 2. T. P.; got to Sand- wich about a quarter of an hour by sun: lodged at Percivals with Mr. Senderlen. Oct. 25, Wednesday, Breakfasted at Stephen Skiphs. He, Percival and I rode out about 12 miles, within sight of Marthah’s Vinyard, to look Horses: at last happily came on 11, whereof five my Fathers, viz, three chess- *Hannah Sewall, his wife. 10 SEWALL( S DIARY nut coloured Mares, and 2 Colts: put them in Mr. Bourns sheep-pen all night. Note. Supped at Mr. Smiths, good Sup- per. Oct. 26, Thursday, Took up the young four yeer old Mare, slit the two near ears of the Colts, their colour was a chesnut Sorrel, whiteish Manes and Tails. The Bigger had all his Hoofs white: the Lesser all black. Both Stone-Colts. The Hair of the Tails cut square with a knife. After this Mr. Smith rode with me and shewed me the place which some had thought to cut, for to make a passage from the South Sea to the North: said ’twas about a mile and a half between the utmost flowing of the two Seas in Herring River and Scusset, the land very low and level, Herrin River exceeding Pleasant by reason that it runs pretty broad, shallow, of an equal depth, and upon white sand. Showed me also the 3 Hills on the which 4 towns kept Warders, before which was such an Isthmus of about 3 miles and barren plain, that scarce any thing might pass unseen. Moniment Harbour said to be very good. Note. Had a very good Supper at Mr. Dexter’s. Being in trouble how to bring along my Mare, in came one Downing and Ben- jamin his son, who, being asked, to my gladness promised Assistance. Oct. 27, Got very well to Plymouth, ‘Tailing my Mare, and Ben strapping her on, though we were fain to come over the Clifts the upper way because of the flowing ‘Tide. There saw Acorns upon bushes about a foot high, which they call running Oak; it is content with that Stature. From Plimouth Ben and ’s father mounted a Trifle before me, I waved my Hat and Handkerchief to them, but they left me to toil with my tired jade: was fain at last to untail and so drive them before me, at last ride and lead the Mare with great diffi- culty. When came to Jones his Bridge, (supposing the house had been just by) put the bridle on the Horses neck, drove him on the Bridge, holding the Halter in my Hand. When I came on the other side, could not catch my Horse, but tired myself leading my tired Mare sometimes on the left Hand into the Marsh, sometimes on the right Hand: at last left SEWALL’S DIARY II him, went to the Bridge to ensure myself of the path, so led her to Tracies about 14 mile. He not at Home, could scarce get them to entertain me, though ’twas night. At length his son John put up my Mare, then took up his own Horse, and so helped me to look for mine, but could not find him: after his Father and he went on foot, and met him almost at the House, Saddle Cover lost, which John found in the Morn. Oct. 28, Saturday, Goodman Tracy directed and set me in the way, so I went all alone to the end, almost, of rocky plain, then, by God’s good providence, Mr. Senderlen overtook me, so we came along cheerfully together, called at my Aunt’s [in Braintree], refreshed, left my tired jade there, set out to Bos- ton ward about half an hour by Sun, and got well home be- fore shutting in, Praised be God. Note. Seeing the wonder- full works of God in the journeye, I was thereby more per- swaded of his justice, and inhability to do any wrong: put in mind likewise of Mr. Thachers Sermon, Oct. 22. Novem. 27, 1676, about 5 M. Boston’s greatest Fire brake forth at Mr. Moors, through the default of a Taylour Boy, who rising alone and early to work, fell asleep and let his Light fire the House, which gave fire to the next, so that about fifty Landlords were despoyled of their Housing. N. B. The House of the Man of God, Mr. Mather, and Gods House were burnt with fire. Yet God mingled mercy, and sent a considerable rain, which gave check in great measure to the (otherwise) masterless flames: lasted all the time of the fire, though fair before and after. Mr. Mather saved his Books and other Goods. Dec. 14, 1676, Seth Shove was brought to our House to dwell, i. e. Father Hull’s. N. B. In the evening, seeing a shagged dogg in the Kitchin, I spake to John Alcock, J am afraid we shall be troubled with the ugly dogg: whereupon John asked which way he went. I said out at the Street door. He presently went that way, and meeting Seth (who went out a little before) took him for the dogg, and smote him so hard 12 SEWALL’S DIARY upon the bare head with a pipe staff, or something like it, that it grieved me that he had strook the dogg so hard. There arose a considerable wheal in the childs head, but it seems the weapon smote him plain, for the Rising was almost from the forehead to the Crown, grew well quickly, wearing a Cap that night. ’*T was God’s mercy the stick and manner of the blow was such as to have spilled his Brains on the Ground. The [ . (I think) seemed to be angry at the childs coming to dwell here. Written, Dec. 18, ’76. Dec. 18, Mr. Rowlandson and Mr. Willard came and vis- ited my Father. While they were here, Mr. Shepard also came in and discoursed of Reformation, especially the dis- orderly Meetings of Quakers and Anabaptists: thought if all did agree, i. e. Magistrates and Ministers, the former might easily be suprest, and that then, The Magistrates would see reason to Handle the latter. As to what it might injure the country in respect of England, trust God with it. Wished, (speaking of Mr. Dean’s) that all the children in the country were baptised, that religion without it come to nothing. Before Mr. Shepards coming in, one might gather by Mr. Wil- lards speech that there was some Animosity in him toward Mr. Mather: for that he said he chose the Afternoon that so he might have a copious auditory: and that when the Town House was offered him to preach to his Church distinct, said he would not preach in a corner. Jan. 10, 1676. Cloudy, Cold, noren wind. Note, went on foot to Mr. Flints at Dorchester, there to be in the company of Ministers: but none came save Mr. Torry. Mr. Fisk was gone to his sick Father: Mr. Hubbard and Adams hindred (as conjectured) by the wether. So that there was Mr. Flint, Mr. Torry, Elder Humphreys, John Hoar, Mrs. Stoughton, Mrs. Flint, Senior, Junior, Mrs. Pool and her daughter Bethesda, with a Nurse named Clap. Notwithstanding the fewness of persons, the day (thro. Gods grace) was spent to good purpose. Mr. Flint prayed, then preached singularly well from that place, SEWALL’S DIARY 13 Cant. 1. 6. But my own Vineyard have I not kept; which he handled well, Pressing every particular person to look to their own Souls. Elder H. prayed. After some pause (because the day much spent and I to goe home) Mr. Torrey prayed onely: which he did divinely, that we might not think strange of fiery Tryal, might be sure not to deceive ourselves as to our union with Christ. Indeed, the exercise was such, preaching and praying, as if God did intend it for me. I prayed earnestly before I went that God would shew me favour at the meeting, and I hope he will set home those things that were by him Carved for me. Mr. Flint sent his Man after the Exercise, so when I had well supped, comfortably rode home. Jan. 30. Sent a letter to Cousin Quinsey, which enclosed a piece of Gold that cost me 23%. Gave the Letter to Mr. Josson. In it ordered to buy 2 pair of Silk Stockings, pink colored, black, 1 pair Tabby Bodyes, cloath-coloured, % wide and long wastied: also Turkish Alcoran, 24 Hand, Map of London. Sent him a copy of verses made on Mr. Reyner. Jan. wit., sent a letter to Mr. Thacher, by the Bagg, in which Salutations, and some newes. Wednesday, 31 Brother John Sewall brought down Sister Jane to live with Mrs. Usher, but the next morn I went to her and she gave me to understand that she thought Jane would not come, and so had supplyed her- self. Father Hull kindly invited her to stay here till she should change her condition if she so liked. Note. Just now wanted a Maid very much, courted Goodwife Fellows Daugh- ter: she could not come till spring: hard to find a good one. So that Jane came in a critical time. Feb. 23, 1676 . Mr. Torrey spake with my Father at Mrs. Norton’s, told him that he would fain have me preach, and not leave off my studies to follow Merchandize. Note. ‘The evening before, Feb. 22, I resolved (if I could get an oppor- tunity) to speak with Mr. Torrey, and ask his Counsel as to coming into Church, about my estate, and the temptations that 14 SEWALL’S DIARY made me to fear. But he went home when I was at the Ware- house about Wood that Tho. Elkins brought. Satterday, Mar. 3, 1678. Went to Mr. Norton to discourse with him about coming into the Church. He told me that he waited to see whether his faith were of the operation of God’s spirit, and yet often said that he had very good hope of his good Estate, and that one might be of the Church (i. e. Mystical) though not joined to a particular Congregation. I objected that of Ames, he said vere guerentibus, the meaning was that such sought not God’s kingdom in every thing. I said it was meant of not at all. He said, was unsettled, had thoughts of going out of the country: that in coming into Church there was a covenanting to watch over one another which carried with it a strict obligation. And at last, that he was for that way which was purely Independent. I urged what that was. He said that all of the Church were a royal Priesthood, all of them Prophets, and taught of God’s Spirit, and that a few words from the heart were worth a great deal: intimating the Benefit of Brethrens prophesying: for this he cited Mr. Dell. I could not get any more. Dr. Mason (whom I have often seen with him) came in, after him Mr. Alden, so our Discourse was broken off. March 16. Dr. Alcock dyes about midnight. Note, Mrs. Williams told us presently after Dutyes how dangerously ill he was, and to get John to go for his Grandmother. I was glad of that Information, and resolved to goe and pray earn- estly for him; but going into the Kitchen, fell into discourse with Tim about Mettals, and so took up the time. The Lord forgive me and help me not to be so slack for time to come, and so easy to disregard and let dye so good a Resolution. Dr. Alcock was 39 yeers old. March 19, 1676 Dr. Alcock was buried, at whoes Funeral I was. After it, went to Mr. Thachers. He not within, so - walkt with Capt. Scottow on the Change till about 5, then went again, yet he not come. At last came Elder Rainsford, SEWALL’S (DIARY, 15 after, Mr. Thacher, who took us up into his Chamber; went to prayer, then told me I had liberty to tell what God had done for my soul. After I had spoken, prayed again. Before I came away told him my Temptations to him alone, and bad him acquaint me if he knew any thing by me that might hinder justly my coming into Church. He said he thought I ought to be encouraged, and that my stirring up to it was of God. March 22. 23. Plenty of Rain after a great deal of dry and pleasant wether. In the afternoon of the 23%, Seth and I gather what herbs we could get, as Yarrow, Garglio, &c. March 30, 1677. I, together with Gilbert Cole, was ad- mitted into Mr. Thacher’s Church, making a Solem covenant to take the L. Jehovah for our God, and to walk in Brotherly Love and watchfulness to Edification. Goodm. Cole first spake, then I, then the Relations of the Women were read: as we spake so were we admitted; then alltogether covenanted. Prayed before, and after. April 1, 1677. About Two of the Clock at night I waked and perceived my wife ill: asked her to call Mother. She said I should goe to prayer, then she would tell me. ‘Then I rose, lighted a Candle at Father’s fire, that had been raked up from Saturday night, kindled a Fire in the chamber, and after 5 . when our folks up, went and gave Mother warning. She came and bad me call the Midwife, Goodwife Weeden, which I did. But my Wives pains went away in a great measure after she was up; toward night came on again, and about a quarter of an hour after ten at night, April 2, Father and I sitting in the great Hall, heard the child cry, whereas we were afraid *twould have been 12 before she would have been brought to Bed. Went home with the Midwife about 2 o’clock, carrying her Stool, whoes parts were included in a Bagg. Met with the Watch at Mr. Rocks Brew house, who bad us stand, en- quired what we were. I told the Woman’s occupation, so they bad God bless our labours, and let us pass. ‘The first Woman the Child sucked was Bridget Davenport. 16 SEW ALLS DILARY April 3. Cousin Flint came to us. She said we ought to lay scarlet on the Child’s head for that it had received some harm. Nurse Hurd watches. April 4. Clear cold weather. Goodwife Ellis watches. April 7, Saturday, first laboured to cause the child suck his mother, which he scarce did at all. In the afternoon my Wife set up, and he sucked the right Breast Dravely.\3\ 4.2. April 8, 1677. Sabbath day, rainy and stormy in the morn- ing, but in the afternoon fair and sunshine, though a bluster- ing Wind. So Eliz. Weeden, the Midwife, brought the Infant to the third Church when Sermon was about half done in the afternoon, Mr. ‘Thacher preaching. After Sermon and Prayer, Mr. Thacher prayed for Capt. Scottow’s Cousin and it. Then I named him John, and Mr. Thacher baptized him into the name of the Father, Son, and H. Ghost. The Lord give the Father and Son may be convinced of and washed from Sin in the blood of Christ. Note. [May] I went out this morning without private prayer and riding on the Comon, thinking to escape the Soul- diers (because of my fearfull Horse); notwithstanding there was a Company at a great distance which my Horse was so transported at that I could no way govern him, but was fain to let him go full speed, and hold my Hat under my Arm. The wind was Norwest, so that I suppose I took great cold in my ear thereby, and also by wearing a great thick Coat of my Fathers part of the day, because it rained, and then leaving it off. However it was, I felt my throat ill, the danger of which I thought had been now over with the winter, and so neglected it too much, relapsed, and grew very sick of it from Friday to Monday following, which was the worst day: after that it mended. Mr. Mather visited me and prayed on that day. June 17. Sabbath day about 7 m, John Sewall had a Con- vulsion Fit. He was asleep in the Cradle, and suddenly started, trembled, his fingers contracted, his eyes starting and SEWALL’S DIARY a, being distorted. I went to Mr. Brackenbury, and thence to Charlestown, and set him to the child. June the nineteenth he had another about noon. June 21, 1677. Just at the end of the Sermon (it made Mr. Allen break off the more abruptly) one Torrey, of Roxbury, gave a suddain and amazing cry which disturbed the whole Assembly. It seems he had the falling sickness. “Tis to be feared the Quaker disturbance and this are ominous. July 8, 1677. New Meeting House Mane: In Sermon time there came in a female Quaker, in a Canvas Frock, her hair disshevelled and loose like a Periwigg, her face as black as ink, led by two other Quakers, and two other followed. It occasioned the greatest and most amazing uproar that I ever saw. Isaiah I. 12, 14. Jan. 13, 1678. Giving my chickens meat, it came to my mind that I gave them nothing save Indian corn and water, and yet they eat it and thrived very well, and that that food was neces- sary for them, how mean soever, which much affected me and convinced what need I stood in of spiritual food, and that I should not nauseat daily duties of Prayer, &c. Jan. 22. Went to Mr. Thachers, found him at home, men- tioned my desire of communion with his Church, rehearsed to him some of my discouragements, as, continuance in Sin, wan- dering in prayer. He said ’twas thought that was the Sin Paul speaks of, Rom. VII. At my coming away said he thought I ought to be encouraged. Feb. 15. Having been often in my mind discouraged from joining to the Church by reason of the weakness, or some such undesirableness in many of its members: I was much relieved by the consideration of 1 Cor. 1. 26, 27. which came to my mind as I was at prayer. What is spoken there was set home on me, to take away my pride and be content with God’s wis- dom: thought it might seem to uncovenanted reason foolish- ness. Having often been apt to break out against God himself as 18 SEWALL’S DIARY if he had made me a person that might be a fit subject of calamity, and that he led me into difficulties and perplexing miseries; I had my spirit calmed by considering what an absurd thing it was to say to God—‘‘Why hast thou made me thus?,” and startled at the daring height of such wickedness. ‘These thoughts had reference to Isaiah XLV. 9, 10. This was at prayer time, Feb. 19. Mane. Death never looked so pleasingly on me as Feb. 18 upon the hearing of Mr. Thachers 3 Argu- ments. Methought it was rather a privilege to dye, and there- in be conformed to Christ, than, remaining alive at his com- ing, to be changed. March 167%. Note. I have been of a long time loth to enter into strict Bonds with God, the sinfullness and hypochrisy of which God hath showed me by reading of a Sermon that Mr. Burgess preached before the House of Comons, Nov. 17, 1640, and by the forementioned Sermons and prayers. Omnia in bonum mihi vertas, O Deus. I found the Sermon acci- dentally in Mr. Norton’s Study. Remember, since I had thoughts of joining to the Church, I have been exceedingly tormented in my mind, sometimes lest the Third church [the South] should not be in God’s way in breaking off from the old. (I resolved to speak with Mr. Torrey about that, but he passed home when I was called to business at the Warehouse. Another time I got Mr. Japheth Hobart to promise me a Meeting at our House after Lecture, —but she that is now his wife, being in town, prevented him.) Sometimes with my own unfitness and want of Grace: yet through importunity of friends, and hope that God might com- municate himself to me in the ordinance, and because of my child (then hoped for) its being baptised, I offered myself, and was not refused. Besides what I had written, when I was speaking [at his admission to the Church] I resolved to con- fess what a great Sifier I had been, but going on in the method of the Paper, it came not to my mind. And now that Scruple of the Church vanished, and I began to be more afraid of my- SEWALL’S DIARY 19 self. And on Saturday Goodman Walker came in, who used to be very familiar with me. But he said nothing of my com- ing into the Church, nor wished God to show me grace therein, at which I was almost overwhelmed, as thinking that he deemed me unfit for it. And I could hardly sit down to the Lord’s Table. But I feared that if I went away I might be less fit next time, and thought that it would be strange for me who was just then joined to the Church, to withdraw, wherefore I stayed. But I never experienced more unbelief. I feared at least that I did not believe there was such an one as Jesus Xt., and yet was afraid that because J came to the ordinance with- out belief, that for the abuse of Xt. I should be stricken dead; yet I had some earnest desires that Xt. would, before the or- dinance were done, though it were when he was just going away, give me some glimpse of himself; but I perceived none. Yet I seemed then to desire the coming of the next Sacrament day, that I might do better, and was stirred up hereby dread- fully to seek God who many times before had touched my heart by Mr. Thacher’s praying and preaching more than now. The Lord pardon my former grieving of his Spirit, and circum- cise my heart to love him with all my heart and soul. Wednesday Febr. 11, 1684—5.—Joshua Moodey and self set out for Ipswich. I lodge at Sparkes’s. Next day, Feb. 12, goe to lecture which Mr. Moodey preaches, then I dine with Mr. Cobbet, and so ride to Newbury; visit Mr. Richardson sick of the dry Belly ake. Monday, Febr. 16, Get Mr. Phillips and Payson to Town and so keep a Fastday, Mr. Moodey Preaching Forenoon, Mr. Phillips Afternoon, Mr. Wood- bridge and Payson assisting in Prayer; was a pretty full As- sembly, Mr. Moodey having given notice the Sabbath-day, on which he preached all day. At Wenham and Ipswich, as we went, we were told of the Earthquake in those parts and at Salem (Feb 8). the Sabbath before about the time of ending Afternoon Exercise ; That which most was sensible of was a startling dole- full Sound; but many felt the Shaking also, Peter and Jane 20 CHW A LiL: S oD A Ray Topan. Mr. Phillips had not finished his Sermon, and was much surprised at the Sound, expecting when the House would have Crackt. In several places Exercise was over. Tuesday Febr. 17, I and Brother, sister Stephen Sewall Ride to Sparkes’s by the Ferry, great part in the Snow; Dined with Ipswich Select-Men. 18%. I Lodged there; the Morn was serene; came to Salem, seeing Mrs. Hale by the way; staid Lecture, came to Boston, found all well. Laus Deo. Apr. 14th 1685. A Ship arrives from New castle and brings News of the death of Charles the 2nd, and Proclamation of James the 2nd, King. Brought a couple of printed Procla- mations relating to that affair. News came to us as we were busy opening the Nominations just before Dinner; it much startled the Governour and all of us. In the morn before I went the Governour said that a Ship master had been with him from Nevis, who told him Gov.” Stapleton should say, we should have a new Governour before he got to Boston. Master dined with Magistrates and Commissioners at Capt. Wing’s. Carried my wife to George Bairsto’s yesterday, April 13th.— Thorsday, April 16th, a Vessel arrives from London. Mr. Lord, commander, brings Orders to the several Colonies to proclaim the King. Mr. Blathwayt writes to Simon Brad- street, Esq. superscribed For His Majestie’s Service, advising that ’t would be best for us early to doe it; and our Charter being vacated in Law and no Government settled here, was the reason we were not writt to: Copies and forms sent to us as to the other Colonies, but no mention of Governour and Com- pany. Also another letter was writt to Simon Bradstreet, Wm. Stoughton, Jos. Dudley, Peter Bulkeley, Sam’l. Shrimpton, Richard Wharton, Esquires, to proclaim the King. Suppose this was done lest the Government should have neglected to do it. “Che Council agreed to proclaim the King before they knew of the Letter. Major Richards counted the Votes for Mr. Dudley, told them twice over, and still found them 666, and so twas entered and sent to the Towns. SEWALL’S DIARY 21 Monday April 20th. The King is Proclaimed; 8 Com- panies, the Troop, and several Gentlemen on horseback assist- ing; three Volleys and then Canon fired. ‘This day a child falls upon a Knife which run through its cheek to the Throat, of which inward Wound it dies, and is buried on Wednesday. "Tis one Gees child.—Thorsday, April 23, Mother Sewall comes by Water in Stephen Greenleaf to see us. Friday May 8th—past 6, even, Walk with the honored Governour [Bradstreet] up Hoar’s Lane, so to the Alms House; then down the length of the Common to Mr. Dean’s Pasture, then through Cowell’s Lane to the New Garden, then to our House, then to our Pasture by Engs’s, then I waited on his Honour to his Gate and so home. ‘This day our old Red Cow is kill’d, and we have a new black one brought in the room, of about four years old and better, marked with a Cross and slit in the Left Ear, and a Cross off the right Ear, with a little hollowing in. As came with his Honour through Cowell’s Lane, Sam. came running and call’d out a pretty way off and cried out the Cow was dead and by the Heels, mean- ‘ing hang’d up by the Butcher. At which I was much startled understanding him she had been dead upon a Hill or cast with her heels upward, and so had lost her; for I was then looking for her and ’t was unexpected, Mother having partly bar- gained and the Butcher fetcht her away in the Night unknown. Had served this family above Ten years, above Nine since my dwelling in it. Satterday May 9th, Brother Stephen Sewall visits me.— Monday, May 11th, 1685, I accompanied Mr. Moodey to Mr. Eliot’s to persuade Mr. Benjamin to go to the Ordination of Mr. Cotton Mather, in which I hope we have prevailed; the mentioning of it drew Tears from the good Father so as to hinder his Speech. “The Father was abroad and preached yesterday. Visited Mr. Dudley also. Tuesday, May 12th, I weary myself in walking from one -end and side of the Town to t’other to seek our lost Cow— 22 SEWALL? S DEAR Y Wednesday, May 13, 1685, Mr. Cotton Mather is ordained Pastor by his Father, who said, My son Cotton Mather, and in ’s sermon spake of Aaron’s Garments being put on Eleazer, intimating he knew not but that God might now call him out of the World. Mr. Eliot gave the Right Hand of Fellow- ship, calling him a Lover of Jesus Christ. Wednesday, June 17* a Quaker or two goe to the Gover- nour and ask leave to enclose the Ground [on the Common] the Hanged Quakers are buried in under or near the Gallows, with Pales: Governour proposed it to the Council, who unan- imously denyed it as very inconvenient for persons so dead and buried in the place to have any Monument. Thorsday, June 18. A Quaker comes to the Governour and speaks of a Message he had which was to shew the great Calamities of Fire and Sword that would suddenly come on New-England. Would fain have spoken in the Meetinghouse, but was prevented. Eliakim comes home this day, brings word that Capt. Henchman is coming away from Worcester with his Family. Noyes this day of a French Pirat on the Coast, of 36 Guns. Satterday, June 20 1685. Voted. the 16 of July to be observed as a Fast. Satterday, P. M. Carried my Wife to Dorchester to eat Cherries, Rasberries, chiefly to ride and take the Air: the Time my Wife and Mrs. Flint spent in the Orchard, I spent in Mr. Flint’s Study, reading Calvin on the Psalms &c. 45. 68. 24. Monday, July 6%. I am taken with a Feverish Fit; yet go to Court in the Afternoon, the County Court, where was read Major Pynchon’s Letter to the Council; which is that 5 Men came to one of the Houses of Westfield (I think) about mid- night 28" June, knockt at the door, the Man bid him come in, so in they came all Armed with drawn Swords, and threat- ened to run the man and his wife through if they stirred: so plundered that House, and another in like manner: told they had 60 Men in their Company and that if they stirred out of SEWALL’S DIARY 238 door, they would kill them; so stayd in a great part of Mon- day, then when thought the Coast was clear told the Neighbors and some were sent to Search after them; at last found them: one of the 5 snapt and missed fire, another shot, then one of ours shot so as to shoot one of theirs dead: another of the 5 fought one of ours with his sword, till another of ours knockt him down. One or two that were taken are brought to Boston, one at least is escaped. Major Pynchon his Works will cost near an hundred Pounds. An Indian was branded in Court and had a piece of his Ear cut off for Burglary. Wednesday, P. M., July 15. Very dark, and great Thun- der and Lightening. One Humphry Tiffiny and Frances Low, Daughter of An- tony Low, are slain with the Lightening and Thunder about a mile or half a mile beyond Billinges Farm, the Horse also slain, that they rode on, and another Horse in Company slain, and his Rider who held the Garment on the Maid to steady it at the time of the Stroke, a coat or cloak, stounded, but not killed. Were coming to Boston. Antony Low being in Town the sad Bill was put up with [regard] of that Solemn judgment of God; Fast-day Forenoon. July 15, 1685. 2 Persons, 2 Horses. July 21. This day about 31 Ministers meet, Mr. Higginson Prayes excellently: Governour gives the Question. Dine all together at Monk’s. After Diner about 3 or 4 aclock, they give their Answere, i. e. Mr. Hubbard Speaks in behalf of the rest, that their Opinion was the Government ought not to give way to another till the Generall Court had seen and judged of the Comission; so should be called if not Sitting at the Arrival of a Comissioned Governour. But several expressed some Dis- sent: And after, shewed themselves extreamly dissatisfied, say- ing that Mr. Hubbard had greatly abused them and that he was not ordered by the Ministers that they knew to speak their minds, which six gave in under their Hands, The Meeting has 24. SEWALL’S DIARY been uncomfortable, and I doubt will breed great Animosities. Wednesday, Augt. 5. rode to Dorchester Lecture with Cous. Nath. Dumer; ‘was kindly entertained at Mr. Stough- ton’s after Lecture. Going thither I saw a few Feet of Ground enclosed with Boards, which is done by the Quakers out of respect to som one or more hanged and buried by the Gallows: though the Governour forbad them, when they asked Leave. Friday, Nov’. 6. Mr. Willard calls in and tells me of a Thanks-Giving intended by the Ministers through the Colony upon the 3.4 of the next Moneth: Go to the Governour to get his Approbation, which He doth not presently grant; but will speak of it in Council on Thorsday next; whether convenient for the Churches generally to attend such a Day without an Order from Authority, as usual. “The difficulty of Printing an Order is, lest by putting in, or leaving out, we offend Eng- land. Having occasion this day to go to Mr. Hayward the Publick Notary’s House, I speak to him about his cutting off his Hair, and wearing a Perriwig of contrary Colour: mention the words of our Saviour, Can ye not make one Hair white or black: and Mr. Alsop’s Sermon. He alledges, The Doctor advised him to it. Monday Nov’. 9. Mr. Cobbet buried about 4. in the Af- ternoon. Flight of snow. ‘This day about 6 or 7 at night a Male Infant pin’d up in a sorry Cloth is laid upon the Bulk of Shaw, the T'abacco-Man: Great Search made tonight and next day to find the Mother. So far as I can hear this is the first Child that ever was in such a manner exposed in Boston. ‘Thorsday, Nov™. 12. Mr. Moodey preaches from Isa. 57. 1. Mr. Cobbet’s Funeral Sermon; said also of Mr. Chauncy that he was a Man of Singular Worth. Said but 2 of the First Generation left. After, the Ministers of this Town Come to the Court and complain against a Dancing Master who seeks to set up here and hath mixt Dances, and his time of Meeting is Lecture- Day; and ’tis reported he should say that by one Play he could SEWALL’S DIARY 25 teach more Divinity than Mr. Willard or the Old Testament. Mr. Moodey said ’twas not a time for N. E. to dance. Mr. Mather struck at the Root, speaking against mixt Dances. Ecclips at night. County Court adjourned till this day 14° night. Governour’s Hat blew off and fell flat on the Ground just as went to go in at ’s Gate. Hath a new Border which began to wear Catechising day or Sabbath last, as I take it. Dept. Governour not in Town. New Almanack comes out this Day intituled New-England’s Almanack, by Mr. Danforth. Wednesday, Nov’. 18. Uncomfortable Court day by rea- son of the extream sharp words between the Deputy Governour and Mr. Stoughton, Dudley and Others. Some Essay to have put a Sanction upon the Apointment for a Thanksgiving; but it fell throw. I argued ’twas not fit upon meer Generals, as (the Mercies of the year) to Comand a Thanksgiving and of Particulars we could not agree. (Governour would have had one Article for the Peace of England, according to His Ma- jesty’s Proclamation. Hollowells business heard, as to Land: about that grew the fierceness in discourse. Mr. G. Boroughs dined with us. Ma- jor Generall not well. Mr. Shove comes to Town today; but I see him not. Thorsday, Nov™. 19. Mr. Mather Preaches from Numb. 25. 11. Shewed that Love was an ingredient to make one zeal- ous: those that received good People, received Christ, Mat. 25. Said that if the Government of N. E. were zealous might yet save this People. 2% Part of 79 Ps. sung. Madam Usher, her Daughter and Husband in Mourning. Mr. Stoughton and Dudley called here. *Tis reported that a Frigot is to come yet before Spring with a Comission for a Governour here, upon the place: Mr. Dudley is talked of and ’tis said Healths are drunk to the new Governour already, and were so Nov’. 17. the day the Ship came in. Friday Nov’. 20 a very rainy and dark day, and in the Af- ternoon turns to a storm of Snow: Court is adjourned to Tues- 26 SEWAL LS /DLARW day, February 16 at One of the Clock, except some Frigot or Ships Arrival from England with His Majesty’s Comands that may call for one sooner; then the Secretary, or if he sick or dead, the Treasurer, to send forthwith to the Members of the Court, and to such others as Freemen may chuse to convene two days after the Date of such Signification, to which time the Court is adjourned in such Case. No Freemen made, nor Prayer. Ground covered with Snow by that time Court done, which is een quite dark. Mr. Stoughton and Dudley not here today. ’I‘was Essayed again to have had a Sanction put on the Thanksgiving: but ’twas again pleaded, to do it without mentioning particular causes would be to impose too much on those Comanded: So fell. Monday night Nov". 23, 1685. I go the Rounds with Cous. Quinsey and Isaac Goose, a very severe night for Cold, yet ’twas fair and comfortable: came home at 5. mane. Nov’. 26, Thorsday. Nurse Goose dyes about 2. or 3. aclock in the night; having lien sick about a Week: was here it seems Wednesday was Senight. Was helpfull to her self all along till this last sickness: washt her own Cloaths. She saw her great Grandchildren: was a good Woman. Nov’. 30. At night viewed the Eclips, which in the total ob- scuration was ruddy; but when began to receive some Light, the darkish ruddiness ceased. Horizon somewhat Hazy. Read in course the Eleventh of the Revelation. Monday, Decemb’. 7“ 1685. About One in the Night my Wife is brought to Bed of a Son, of which Mother Hull brings me the first News: Mrs. Weeden Midwife. Wednesday Dec". 9* 1685. Our Neighbour Gemaliel Wait eating his Breakfast well, went to do something in his Orchard, where Serj‘. Pell dwells, there found him Self not well and went into Pell’s his Tenant’s House, and there dyed extream suddenly about Noon, and then was carried home in a Chair, and means used to fetch him again, but in vain: To the Chil- dren startled about him he said, here is a sudden Change, or SEWALL’S DIARY cas there will be a great Change, to that purpose. Was about 87 years old, and yet strong and hearty: had lately several new Teeth. People in the Street much Startled at this good Man’s sudden Death. Gov". Hinkley sent for me to Mr. Rawson’s just as they were sending a great Chair to carry him home. Satterday, Dec’. 12, ’85. Father Wait buried: Magistrates and Ministers had Gloves. ‘There heard of the Death of Capt. Hutchinson’s Child by Convulsions, and so pass to the Funeral of little Samuel Hutchinson about Six weeks old, where also had a pair of Funeral Gloves. Sabbath-day, Decemb’. 13 1685. Mr. Willard baptizeth my Son lately born, whom I named Henry: David Stoddard, the son of Mr. Simeon Stoddard, was baptized next, and then Several other grown Children. Nurse Hill came in before the Psalm was Sung, and yet the Child was fine and quiet: Mr. Willard preached from John 15 8, Herein is my Father glor- ified, that you bear much Fruit, so shall ye be my Disciples: which is the first Sermon my little Son hath been present at. Monday, Dec. 14. This Monday a Jury is sumoned who sit on the Body of Joseph Johnson, and the verdict they find, a wound an inch or 2 above his Navel which they judge to be the cause of his Death, and that they were informed James Morgan did it with a Spit. So were Sworn in Court Dec™ 14. 1685., and James Morgan ordered to have Irons put on him. He comitted the Fact last Thorsday night. Thorsday, Dec’. 17%. Mr. Mather preacheth from Mat. 16., former part of the 25 Verse. For whosover will save his Life shall Lose it. At County-Court nothing done in Mr. Sergeant’s Business: So he makes a Speech when the Court open, that if the Court did nothing they would give him a Rec- ord of it, that he might go elsewhere for he would not be kept out of ’s Money; speaking warmly. Mr. Francis Stepney, the Dancing Master, desired a Jury, so He and Mr. Shrimpton Bound in 50£ to Jan™. Court. Said Stepney is ordered not to keep a Dancing School; if he does 28 SEWALL’S DIARY will be taken in contempt and be proceeded with accordingly. Mr. Shrimpton muttered, saying he took it as a great favour that the Court would take his Bond for £50. Friday Dec. 18. Begun in Course to read the New Testa- ment, having ended the Revelation the night before. Satterday Dec. 19. Mr. Willard Prayes with my little Henry, being very ill. Sabbath-day, Dec. 20. Send Notes to Mr. Willard and Mr. Moodey to pray for my Child Henry. Monday, about four in the Morn the faint and moaning noise of my child forces me up to pray for it. 21. Monday even Mr. Moodey calls. I get him to go up and Pray with my extream sick Son. Tuesday Morn, Dec. 22. Child makes no noise save by a kind of snoaring as it breathed, and as it were slept. Read the 16 of the first Chron. in the family. Having read to my Wife and Nurse out of John; the fourteenth Chapter fell now in course, which I read and went to Prayer: By that time had done, could hear little Breathing, and so about Sun- rise, or little after, he fell asleep, I hope in Jesus, and that a Mansion was ready for him in the Father’s House. Died in Nurse Hill’s Lap. Nurse Hill washes and layes him out: be- cause our private Meeting hath a day of Prayer tomorrow, Thorsday Mr. Willard’s Lecture, and the Child dying after Sunrise (wether cloudy), have determined to bury on Thors- day after Lecture. “The Lord sanctify his Dispensation, and prepare me and mine for the coming of our Lord, in whatso- ever way it be. Mr. Tho. Oakes our Physician for this Child. Read the 16 Chap. of the First Chronicles in the Family. Thorsday, Dec’. 24 1685. We follow Little Henry to his Grave: Governour and Magistrates of the County here, 8 in all, beside my Self, Eight Ministers, and Several Persons of note. Mr. Phillips of Rowley here. I led Sam., then Cous. Savage led Mother, and Cousin Dumer led Cous. Quinsey’s wife, he not well. Midwife Weeden and Nurse Hill carried SEWALL’S DIARY 29 the Corps by turns, and so by Men in its Chestnut Coffin ’twas set into a Grave (The Tomb full of water) between 4 and 5. At Lecture the 21. Psalm was Sung from 8 to the end. ‘The Lord humble me kindly in respect of all my Enmity against Him, and let his breaking my Image in my Son be a means of it. Considerable snow this night. Dec. 25. Friday. Carts come to Town and Shops open as is usual. Some somehow observe the day; but are vexed I be- lieve that the Body of the People profane it, and blessed be God no Authority yet to compell them to keep it. A great Snow fell last night so this day and night very cold. Satterday, Jan’. [16854] Last night had a very unusual Dream; viz. “That our Saviour in the dayes of his Flesh when upon Earth, came to Boston and abode here sometime, and moreover that He Lodged in that time at Father Hull’s; upon which in my Dream had two Reflections, One was how much more Boston had to say than Rome boasting of Peter’s being there. The other a sense of great Respect that I ought to have shewed Father Hull since Christ chose when in Town, to take up His Quarters at his House. Admired the goodness and Wisdom of Christ in coming hither and spending some part of His short Life here. The Chronological absurdity never came into my mind, as I remember. Jan’. 1, 1685% finished reading the Godly Learned ingenious Pareus on the Revelation. Friday, January 22. Joseph Redknap of Lin buried, being about 110 years old: was a Wine-Cooper in London, was about 30 years old at the Great Frost. Ralph King teste. Sabbath, Jan™. 24. Friday night and Satterday were extream cold, so that the Harbour frozen up, and to the Castle. ‘This day so cold that the Sacramental Bread is frozen pretty hard, and rattles sadly as broken into the Plates. Thorsday, January 28. Mr. Jenner having lodged at Capt. Clap’s last night, with Mr. Belcher and others, come near twenty together to Serj’. Bull’s over the Ice and bring the News of the Rose Frigot ready to come and bring Mr. Ran- 30 SEWALL’S DIARY dolph, who is to be Deputy Governour, and Mr. Dudley Gov- ernour. Jenner came from Ile Wight the 13, of November. When Mr. Jenner came in the Magistrates went all off the Bench to hear his News in the Lobby. Mr. Addington also came in. Isa. 33. 17. was preached from, by Mr. Cotton Mather. ‘Thine eyes shall see the King, &c. whoes Sermon was somewhat disgusted for some expressions; as, sweet sented hands of Christ, Lord High Treasurer of Aethiopia, Ribband of Humility—which was sorry for, because of the excellency and seasonableness of the subject, and otherwise well handled. Doct. ’Tis a matchless priviledg to behold Christ in his Beauty. Mr. Eliot not at Lecture. Mr. Jenner rumors that the Ox- ford Frigot is to come in the Spring, and bring a Governour from England, and that one. Vincent, Brother to the Minister, most talked of; which Mr. Dudley laughs at. Sabbath-day, Febr. 14. Little Hull speaks Apple plainly in the hearing of his Grand-Mother and Eliza Lane; this the first word. At the Burial of Mr. Eyr’s Child, Mr. Moodey discoursed of the grievous spreading of the Small Pocks in, and round about Portsmouth, at Exeter, &c. ‘Tuesday, Feb. 16, 1685%. General Court meets. Dine 3 times. Is a discourse this day of a strange Beast killed at Middletown, or 4 miles off that place, last Dec., 10 foot long his Body, 10 foot his tail, as tall as a two year and vantage Horse; Had a dead Horse and two Dear lay at ’s Den, and Indians waiting for him, at last saw him coming with another in ’s Mouth, as a Cat carries a Mouse almost. Indian shot him down. [Sewall writes in the margin—all untrue.] Great disorder in the Town by Cock-skailing: I grant 2 warrants. Tho. Barnard has one, and James Barns the other, whereby several Companies broke up: but for want of a Law and Agree- ment shall find much ado to supress it. Satterday, Febr. 20. I send for Edw. Cowel and blame him for his ill carriage at Richd. White’s Wedding, Dec. 10. He denys the fact, and saith he came not nigh her (i. e. the SEWALL’S DIARY 31 Bride) and stooped down only to take up his Hat taken off in the Crowd. Sabbath-day, Feb. 28. A Jury is summoned to sit upon the Body of Sarah, the Daughter of Henry and Mary Flood, about 13 weeks old, for that said Mary was suspected of Mur- der. So now 3 in Prison for suspected Murder. Tuesday, March 2. Brother St. and Wife visit us. Mr. Chickly is cast in his Attaint. Morgan, Indian and Flood put upon Tryal. Wednesday, March 34. James Morgan is brought in guilty by the Jury, Sam.’ Phips Fore-Man. : Thorsday, March 4. Mr. Moodey preaches. After Lec- ture, James Morgan is condemned to dye: He said was mur- dered; but spake not of Appealing, which I expected he might. Friday 5. Joseph Indian is acquitted. James Morgan is sent to, and acquainted that he must dye next Thorsday, and ordered that Mr. Mather be acquainted with it who is to preach the Lecture. Note. Mr. Stoughton and Dudley voted not in the Judgment, and went off the Bench when Sentence was to be passed. Major Richards slid off too. Judgment was voted at George Monk’s before rose from Table, on Thors- day. Satterday, March 6. James Morgan sends a Petition by one Vaughan, signed with said Morgan’s own hand, wherein he acknowledges his own sinfull Life, the justness of the Court’s Sentence; and desires longer time to live, but ’tis not granted. Tuesday, March 9 1685%. Mr. Tho. Kay our Maid’s Father, dyes about 8. or 9. aclock. An Order is given for the Execution of Morgan next Thorsday; which the Marshal Generall acquaints him with. Thorsday, March 11. Persons crowd much into the Old Meeting-House by reason of James Morgan; and before I got thether a crazed woman cryed the Gallery or Meetinghouse broke, which made the People rush out with great Consterna- 32 SEWALL’S DIARY tion, a great part of them, but were seated again. However, Mr. Eliot, the Father, speaks to me that I would go with him back to the Governour, and speak that the Meeting might be held in our Meeting-House [the South] for fear of the worst. Deputy Governour forwarded it, so Governour proceeded, met Mr. Mather, paused a little and then went to our House, the stream of People presently following and deserting the Old: first part of the 51. Ps. Sung. Mr. Mather’s Text was from Num. 35. 16. And if he smite him with an Instrument of Iron, &c. Saw not Mr. Dudley at Meeting, nor Court; suppose he might not be in Town. Mr. Stoughton here. Morgan was turn’d off about 1% an hour past five. The day very com- fortable, but now 9. aclock rains and has done a good while. Know not whether the mad woman said the House fell, or whether her beating women made them scream, and so those afar off, not knowing the cause, took it to be that; but the effect was as before; and I was told by several as I went along, that one Gallery in the old Meetinghouse was broken down. The mad woman was the Daughter of Goodm. Bishop, master of Morgan. She went in at the Southwest Dore, beat the women, they fled from her: they above supposed they fled from under the falling Gallery. Mr. Cotton Mather accompanied James Morgan to the place of Execution, and prayed with him there. Friday, March 26, 1686. Court of Assistants. Go to the Governour’s and accompany him to Court; was slow to go out till knew the Court pretty full: Deputy Governour and about % Duzen went down, among whom Mr. Stoughton: Mr. Dudley went not. At the Town-House debated what was best to do respecting Mr. Shrimpton: Mr. Stoughton related matter of fact. Governour had adjourned the Court from Thorsday to Monday, beside the Appointment to hear Mr. Sergeant, which was done Feb. 25. The Court not being full as the Governour alledged, several malefactors were call’d and sen- tenced, before which ended, Mr. Stoughton and Dudley came SE, WAS) DIARY ag in; a while after the Governour said to Mr. Sergeant, Will you have your case called now, Here is but a thin Court,— which was somewhat grievous to Mr. Stoughton; At length Mr. Sergeant and Shrimpton called, Mr. Shrimpton in a great fury, said he was no Thief, &c. though called among them; and he perceived he was to Answer Mr. Sergeant and not the Court, because of the Governour’s speech above; told the Gov- ernour he had wronged him much, which some apply to his Ar- bitratorship, some otherwise: said there was no Governour and Company, and the Governour had notice of it from Mr. Humphryes, and would not Answere: substance was what sub- scribed before in ’s Paper given in more silently; but now spoken, in a great Croud with contemptuous Pride and Rage. Gov'., Stoughton, Dudley, Davie, Fichards. Court cleared the Room, debated among themselves. None but the Gover- nour Spoke to send Mr. Shrimpton to Prison, one reason was because he had given the Essence of it in writing long before, and nothing had been done to him: But would have spoken to him and the People, desiring the Governour to begin; Gover- nour said he despised it, or the like, speaking to Mr. Davie who propounded it inconveniently: So went away angry, and rest followed him; So is extream Displeasure among the Peo- ple, against Stoughton and Dudley chiefly: This 26 Shrimp- ton sent for, not coming, (was not at home) Court and Coun- cil is Adjourned to the next Thorsday after Lecture, and Mar- shal ordered to Summon him. Satterday, March 27 Capt. Eliot, Mr. Wyllys, Allin, Frary go to the Governour’s to comfort Him and strengthen his Hands, seeming to be extreamly concerned. I vindicated Mr. Stoughton, being the Senior Magistrate, all that ever I could; but I question whether it takes much place or no. Mr. Addington entered nothing, and professed before the Council that was so surprized and ’twas a sudden Gust, that scarce knew what he said: and all say "twas extream sudden and 34 SEWALL’S DIARY tumultuous: I perceiv Sundry Oaths are taking, what avail they’ll be of as to things done in Court, I know not. Thorsday, April 1, 1686. Mr. Shrimpton comes before the Council, gives in a Paper shewing that March 22. he did say there was no Governour and Company in being in this place, which he still did averr, and was ready to prove if called to it. Council adjourned to April 15% and the Essex Magistrates writt to, to be here. Mr. Shrimpton said he never did dis- own a Government here, but honoured them. Mr. Secretary in writing the Letter writt Henry, in stead of Samuel. Am afraid little can or will be done, we shall only sentire nos mori; for Governour seemed to own before the People that the Char- ter was vacated in England, and insisted upon a Proclamation sent him: And the Deputy Governour said the Government must not be tumbled down till his Majesty call’d for it, or to that purpose: Such discourses and arguings before the People do but make us grow weaker and weaker. Said ’twas voided as much as London’s; and they durst not since hold a Comon Council. Thorsday, Apr. 15. After Lecture the Court meets, Mr. Shrimpton sent for, Evidences sworn. Considered how to hear him, as County Court, I voted for the County Court, and three more, or Assistants. When some were for Satterday, others for next Thorsday: first carried it because of Major Appleton and Pike: so Juries to be summoned then to appear. Mr. Shrimpton would not take any blame to himself as to substance of what had said, and pleaded that might be heard by the County Court, else refused to give Bond to appear. The Deputy Governour said his Case was Capital, which Mr. Stoughton earnestly spake against. In the hurry Deputy Gov- ernour Adjourned the Court, bid the Marshal Generall look to Mr. Shrimpton; Marshal Generall required a Warrant which Secretary would not grant because the Court Ad- journed: So Mr. Shrimpton under no obligation to appear. Boston to chuse Jury-Men for the County Court, Friday 3 SEWALL’S DIARY es aclock all under one [ballot] and read the Nomination-Bill. This Thorsday 15. April, Capt. Ephraim Savage’s Maid is known to have the Small Pocks, to the great saddening of the ‘Town, besides all our other Deaths. Warrants run for the Jury to appear 17 Inst. at 8 aclock mane to try a Case that concerns Limb, Life, or Banishment; and for a Grand jury. Doubt the terms of the Warrant ex- tream inconvenient. Thorsday, 15. April, pomerid. ‘The Companies warned to Train. News is brought by Mary-Land that Mr. Randolph alone was come for N. England. Am told a Letter from Mr. Ive of Dec. 10. saith was then in the Downs waiting for a wind. So that the Report that the Devil Kirk was coming (as was said the Mariners called him) now abates. Satterday, April 17, 1686. After much discourse an In- dictment is drawn up, the Grand jury find the Bill per Pen Townsend, Foreman. Mr. Shrimpton appears not: so an At- tachment ordered to goe out for him against next Thorsday, upon which the Marshal is to take Bond of him with Sureties of 1000. which if refuse to give, to carry him to prison. The Towns sent to as far as Weymouth sent their Jury Men very soon Satterday Morn; which was to me a very rare sight, see- ing the warrants to arrive a Thorsday night. Mr. Stoughton and Dudley call’d here. Mr. Stoughton said would not come again till after the Election, [if it] should make me lose all my Votes. Sabbath, Apr. 18. Capt. Ephr. Savage puts up a Bill to have God’s hand sanctified in sending the Small Pocks into his Family. Thorsday, Apr. 22. Court Assistants. Mr. Shrimpton gives no Bond, but is sent to Prison, Marshal did not light on him before. In the afternoon pleads against the illegality of the Indictment it having no Date: which suppose will be granted; is dismissed tonight on ’s Parol to appear tomorrow. Acknowledged was ashamed of the manner of ’s behaviour in 36 SEWALL’S DIARY the Country Court, but stood to the Substance, that no Gov- ernour and Company. May 10%. Went to Charlestown and wished Mr. Cotton Mather Joy, was married last ‘Tuesday. Monday, 10 May, Night and Tuesday Morn, plenty of warm refreshing Rain which was extremly wanted. Tuesday Morn. Mr. Mather’s Maid, a Member of [blank] Church is brought to Bed of a Child. Nothing sus- pected before that I hear of. Tis said He has turn’d her out of ’s House. Friday, May 14. The Rose-Frigot arrives at Nantasket, Mr. Randolph up at Town about 8 mane: takes Coach for Roxbury: Major Pynchon and Mr. Stoughton are sent to the Magistrates to acquaint them with the King’s Commands be- ing come, and that Mr. Deputy, with whom he pleased to take with him, might go to Capt. Paige’s and see the Com- mission, Exemplification of the Judgment and Seals. Mr. Shrimpton in the morn was sent for and told, by reason of the Governour’s absence, and other business, should not now pro- ceed with his Tryal, and that the Court would be adjourned and he should be acquainted with the time. Had a small Ad- miralty Case. Jury dismissed after Dinner. Major Pynchon has not took his Oath, I saw him not till came in with Mr. Stoughton. Satterday, May 15. Gov". Hinkley, Major Richards, Mr. Russell and Self sent to by Major Dudley to come to Capt. Paige’s, where we saw the Exemplification of the Judgment against the Charter, with the Broad Seal affixed: discoursed about their acceptance: had some thoughts of shewing their Seals to the Magistrates and Deputies, though not to them as a Court; but before we returned, the Magistrates were gone to the Governour’s and from thence they adjourned till Mon- day one aclock. Major Generall came home and dined with me. Went to George Monk’s and paid him in full, drank half a pint of Wine together. SEWALL’S DIARY aa Monday, May 17 1686. Generall Court Sits at One aclock, I goe thither, about 3. The Old Government draws to the North-side, Mr. Addington, Capt. Smith and I sit at the Table, there not being room: Major Dudley the President, Major Pynchon, Capt. Gedney, Mr. Mason, Randolph, Capt. Winthrop, Mr. Wharton come in on the Left. Mr. Stough- ton I left out: Came also Capt. [of] King’s Frigot, Gov’. Hinkley, Gov’. West and sate on the Bench, and the Room pretty well filled with Spectators in an Instant. Major Dud- ley made a Speech, that was sorry could treat them no longer as Governour and Company; Produced the Exemplification of the Charter’s Condemnation, the Commission under the Broad- Seal of England—both: Letter of the Lords, Commission of Admiralty, openly exhibiting them to the People; when had done, Deputy Governour said suppos’d they expected not the Court’s Answer now; which the President took up and said they could not acknowledge them as such, and could no way capitulate with them, to which I think no Reply. When gone, Major Generall, Major Richards, Mr. Russell and Self spake our minds. I chose to say after the Major Generall, adding that the foundations being destroyed what can the Righteous do; speaking against a Protest; which some spake for. Spake to call some Elders to pray tomorrow which some think in- convenient, because of what past, and the Commissioners hay- ing several times declared themselves to be the King’s Council when in the Town-House. Wednesday, May 19. Capt. Eliot tells me that he hears Salem Troop is to be here on Friday, Capt. Higginson is Mr. Wharton’s Brother in Law, and Capt. Gedney is of Salem, commands one of the Companyes. Mr. Higginson and Mr. Noyes steady for Submission; the former is the Captain’s Father. My Son reads to me Isa. 22 in his course this morn- ing. In the Afternoon Major Richards and Self sent for to Capt. Winthrop’s and desired to have our Companyes in Arms 38 SEWALL’S DIARY next Tuesday, Boston Troop to bring the President from Rox- bury; what was thought of the former notion is now laid aside. Friday, May 21, 1686. The Magistrates and Deputies goe to the Governour’s. I was going to them about 11. aclock, supposing them to be at the Town-House, and seeing a head through the Governour’s Room, and, Brisco in the Street, I asked if Magistrates there; so went in and they were dis- coursing about delivering the Keys of a Fort which had been asked, seemed to advise him not to do it till the Gentlemen Sworn. Mr. Nowell prayed that God would pardon each Magistrate and Deputies Sin. “Thanked God for our hithertos of Mercy 56 years, in which time sad Calamities elsewhere, as Massacre Piedmont; thanked God for what we might expect from sundry of those now set over us. I moved to sing, so sang the 17. and 18. verses of Habbakkuk. The Adjournment which had been agreed before, Second Wednesday in October next at 8 aclock in the Morning, was declared by the Weeping Marshal-Generall. Many ‘Tears Shed in Prayer and at parting. This day the President goes on Board the Frigot a little below the Castle, so the Flagg is hung out at the Main Top. About 4. or 5. P. M. She comes up with a fair wind, Castle fires about 25 Guns; a very considerable time after the Frigot fires, then the Sconce and Ships, Noddles Iland, Charlestown Battery, Frigot again, Ships with their Ancients out, and Forts their Flaggs. Not very many Spectators on Fort Hill and there about, I was for one, coming from the Warehouse. I waited on the President in the morn to speak with him, and so accompanied Him to Town. Wednesday, Major Richards and I were sent for to Capt. Winthrop’s to speak with us about attending with our Companyes on Tuesday; this was near night. Were advised to consult our Officers; Major Richards objected the discontent of the Souldiers and may be it might prove inconvenient. On Thorsday, before Lecture, at Capt. Paige’s, I told the President thought I could do nothing to SEWALL’S DIARY 39 the purpose: On Friday waited on him on purpose and pro- pounded Lieut. Hayward: when came home, after Dinner went to speak with Lieut. Hayward, found him at George’s. There he was speaking with his Capt., the President having spoken to him; he was to return an Answer to the President. I hear no more of it, so I suppose ’tis left with him. On Wednesday Major spake of warning by Corporals not Drum. Satterday, June 5%. I rode to Newbury, to see my little Hull, and to keep out of the way of the Artillery Election, on which day eat Strawberries and Cream with Sister Longfellow at the Falls, visited Capt. Richard Dummer, rode to Salem, where lodged 2 nights for the sake of Mr. Noyes’s Lecture, who preached excellently of Humility, from the woman’s wash- ing Christ’s feet. Was invited by Mr. Higginson to Dinner, but could not stay. Friday, June 11. Waited on the Council, took the Oath of Allegiance, and rec’d my new Commission for Capt. Was be- fore at a privat Fast at Deacon Allen’s: so Capt. Hutchinson and I went about 5. aclock, and all the rest were sworn, Capt. Hutchinson at present refuses. I read the Oath myself hold- ing the book in my Left hand, and holding up my Right Hand to Heaven. Friday, June 18. My dear Son, Hull Sewall, dyes at New- bury about one aclock. Brother Toppan gets hither to acquaint us on Satterday morn between 5 and 6. We set out about 8. I got to Newbury a little after Sun-set, where found many persons waiting for the Funeral; so very quickly went; Mr. Woodbridge and Richardson there: Bearers Mr. Sam!. Tomp- son, Jn° Moodey, Jn®° Toppan, Johnny Richardson. Had Gloves. Gave no body else any because ’twas so late. Sabbath-day Morn. Goodman Pilsbury was buried just after the ringing of the second Bell. Grave dugg over night. Mr. Richardson Preached from 1 Cor. 3, 21.22, going some- thing out of ’s Order by reason of the occasion, and singling out those Words Or Death. 40 SEWAL LE SUDLART On Monday I distributed some Gloves, and in the After- noon about 6 aclock came with Deacon Coffin to Salem about 10 at night. From thence early in the Morn by reason of the flaming Heat, and got to Winnisimmet before the Ferry-men up, Got home about 34 after seven, found all well. Hullie was taken ill on Friday Morn. Mr. Clark of Cambridge had a Son of 9 years old drowned the Tuesday before. Two women dy’d suddenly in Boston. James Mirick that lived just by my Father at Newbury, had his House suddenly burnt down to the Ground on Sabbath-day Even before this Friday. ‘The Lord sanctify this Third Bereavement. July 27, 1686. Mr. Stoughton prayes excellently, and makes a notable speech at the opening of the Court. The Foreman of the Grand-Jury, Capt. Hollbrook, swore laying his hand on the Bible, and one or two more. So Mr. Ballard, Foreman of the Petit Jury, and one or two more. Others swore lifting up their hands, as formerly. Attorneys are sworn and none must plead as Attorneys but they. July 28. 1687. 8. Joseph Sewall, was born Aug 15th 1688 *9, Judith Sewall, was born Aug. 13t2 1690, Died Sept. 21st 1690. 10. Mary Sewall, was born Oct. 28th 1691. *11. Jane Sewall, was born Aug. 7*® 1693. Died Sept. 13t4 1693. All the above-named Eleven Children have been by their father, Samuel Sewall, (holding them in his arms,) Offered up to God in Baptisme, at the South-Meeting-House in Boston. The Rev4. Mr. Thomas Thacher baptised John and Samuel; and the Rev4. Mr. Samuel Willard baptised the other Nine, upon the Sabbath Day in the Solemn Assembly of God’s Saints. Sept. 15, 1693. The body of Jane Sewall was laid in the Tomb, between 4. and 5. P.M. John Willard carried the Corps. Lord teach me to profit. I led my wife; Cous. Dumer, Mother; Sam. his Sister; Jane, Elisabeth; SEWALL’S DIARY 11g Oct. 11t* Carried my daughter Hanah to Salem in Com- pany of Mr. Hathorne and Sam. Wakefield; got thether about 8. at night. Oct. 12. Carried her to Rowley, W™ Longfellow rid before her; I staid Lecture at Ipswich, where unexpectedly heard Mr. Edward Tomson preach a very good Sermon from Felix’s procrastination. Oct. 13. Rid home, having much adoe to pacify my dear daughter, she weeping and pleading to go with me. Wednesday, Oct. 18. Jn° Barnard raises the Roof of the brick House, no hurt done, through God’s goodness. Tuesday, Nov. 21, 1693. Our House is covered and de- fended against the wether. Nov. 24. The first Snow falls. Friday, Jan. 5°. Being in the chamber of the new House next Tiler’s, I fell down, and razed off the skin of my right Legg upon the shin bone, putting my self to much pain; I was fain to fall across the Joysts, to prevent falling through, which I was in great danger of. Satterday, Jan. 13, 16934. The Floor of the lower Cham- ber towards the North-East, is laid; I drove a Nail. Monday, Jan. 15, and Jan. 16, the Floor of the Hall-Cham- ber is laid. ‘The Ice is clear gon out of the Docks as in March. Jan. 19, 16934. Kitchen floor is finished. “This day Mrs. Prout dies after sore conflicts of mind, not without suspicion of Witchcraft. Satterday, Jan. 27. The Hall Floor is finished. Jan. 30, 16934. The Kitchin Casements are Glazed and set up. April 2, 1694. Monday. Artillery Training; Bastian and I set seeds of White-Thorn at Saunder’s Pasture, north end. In the Afternoon, all the Town is filled with the discourse of Major Richard’s Death, which was very extraordinarily sud- dain; was abroad on the Sabbath, din’d very well on Monday, and after that falling into an angry passion with his Servant 116 SE WALL’ 8 3DDARLY Richard Frame, presently after, fell probably into a Fit of Apoplexy, and died. On ‘Tuesday night was opened and no cause found of his death; noble Parts being fair and sound. Friday, April 6. Major Richards is buried in his ‘Tomb in the North Burying Place; Companyes in Arms attending the Funeral. Bearers, Stoughton Danforth; Russell, Brown; Se- wall, Addington; Major General and Mr. Foster led the Widow. Mr. Torrey was not there because “twas Friday. Coffin was covered with Cloth. In the Tomb were fain to nail a Board across the Coffins and then a board standing right up from that, bearing against the top of the Tomb, to prevent their floating up and down; sawing and fitting this board made some inconvenient ‘Tarriance. Oct. 20. This week the upper Floors are laid with boards that had only this Summer’s seasoning. Sabbath, Oct. 28, 1694. ‘There is a very High boisterous and cold Norwest Wind, my dear Mother Hull for fear the wind should bear her down, does not put on her Cloak: but wears two Scarvs and so catches cold; however, grows indis- pos’d so that canot eat nor sleep; kept from the Catechising and Lecture. I left word with Mr. Oliver that Mother de- sired his Brother to come and see her, which he did Nov. 1. and left directions. Mr. Moodey prays with her. Nov. 1, 1694. Capt. Dobbins refusing to give Bail, the Sheriff was taking him to Prison, and Sir William Phips res- cued him, and told the Sheriff He would send him, the Sheriff, to prison, if he touch’d him, which occasioned very warm dis- course between Him and the Lieut. Governour. Nov. 3, 1694. 1. past m. Mr. Willard prays and the Gov- ernour adjourns the General Court to the last Wednesday in February next, P.M. Several of the Council desired a dissolu- tion, lest some Emergency should require the Calling of an As- sembly, and this Adjournment bind our hands; but the Goy- ernour would not harken to it. Onset of the Enemy, Packets from England, were mention’d. Before the Adjournment, SEWALL’S DIARY 117 Governour expostulated with the Speaker about copying out and dispersing a.Letter of Sir H. Ashurst’s; then said, ‘This Court is dissolv’d to such a time: being put in mind of his mis- take, said, I mean Adjourn’d. Wednesday, Nov. 7. First day of the Court’s meeting this week, Capt. Dobbins is call’d. He utterly refuseth to give Bail, confesseth himself to be in the Sheriff’s Custody. Between the Sheriff and Keeper is carried to Goal, which makes great Wrath. He pleaded Justification for it, produced two War- rants under the Governour’s Hand and Seal, and an Act of Parliament: Court adviseth. Sixth-day, Nov. 9, 1694. Lieut. Governour and Council dine at James Meers’s; The Treat was intended for the Gov- . ernour; but is so offended at Capt. Dobbins Imprisonment, that He comes not, nor Mr. Mather the Father, nor Son, nor Capt. Foster; so chair at the uper end of the Table stands empty. Note. Mr. Cotton Mather was sick of a grievous pain in his face, else He had been there, as He told me after- ward. Fifth-day, Nov. 15%. Is a Council at the Governour’s House about taking Mr. Jackson’s Affidavits; defer it till after Lecture that Capt. Byfield may have notice to be there. Mr. Walter preaches a very good Sermon from Ps. 73. 27. They that are far from Thee shall perish: shewd the misery of the unregenerat: the Hapiness of Believers, by reason of their manifold Nearness to God. Governour did not go to Lecture. After Lecture was much debate at the Townhouse, and at last Mr. Jackson’s Affidavits were all read over, and his Oath given him by the Lieut. Governour and Council. Seventh-day, Nov. 17 1694. Just about Sunset or a little after, the Governour goes from his House to the Salutation Stairs, and there goes on board his Yatcht; Lieut. Governour, many of the Council, Mr. Cotton Mather, Capts. of Frigatts, Justices and many other Gentlemen accompanying him. ’I'was six aclock by that time I got home, and I only staid to see them 118 SRW AL Des (Diba come to sail. Guns at the Castle were fired about seven: Gov- ernour had his Flagg in main Top. Note. Twas of a seventh day in the even when the Governour came to Town, and so tis at his going off, both in darkness: and uncomfortable, because of the Sabbath. Nov. 21. My wife grew so ill that I got up between three and four in the morn. Call Mrs. Weeden; proves a rainy day. Nov. 21, 1694. My wife is brought to bed of a Daughter between 9. and 10. of the Clock in the morn. Mr. Torrey prayd with Mother and me in the Kitchen of the new house for that mercy; Mother desiring Him, saying that my wife was in great and more than ordinary Extremity, so that she was not able to endure the Chamber: I went also to acquaint Mr. Willard, and as I came back, I met Mrs. Perce, who wish’d me joy of my Daughter, as came in at the Gate. Mr. Torrey was prevail’d with to go into Chamber and Return Thanks to God. Women din’d with rost Beef and minc’d Pyes, good Cheese and Tarts. Grows to a very great Storm. Nov. 22. I put up a Bill for to Thank God for delivering my wife in childbearing; there was no other. Mr. Cotton Mather preached from Isa. 32. 2. taking occasion from the Storm. Lieut. Governour not at Meeting. Mr. Torrey and Fisk lodge here. Sabbath, Nov. 25, 1694. I named my little Daughter Sarah, Mr. Willard baptiz’d her. Lydia Cornish, and Joseph Scot were baptiz’d at the same time. Mr. Jorrey said, call her Sarah and make a Madam of her. I was strugling whether to call her Sarah or Mehetabel; but when I saw Sarah’s stand- ing int the Scripture, viz: Peter, Galatians, Hebrews, Romans, I resolv’d on that side. Also Mother Sewall had a sister Sarah; and none of my sisters of that name. Dec. 4, 1694. Lieut. Governour calls at ’s entrance into the Town; I told him I had spoken to Mr. Willard to pray; tells me of his intended Treat at Mr. Coopers, and enquires SEWALL’S DIARY 119 whom He had best to invite. Between 2. and 3. P.M. we meet at Mr. Secretaries, from thence go to the Townhouse; viz. Lieut. Governour, Mr. Danforth, Gedney, Russel, Cook, Phillips, Brown, Hathorne, Addington, Sewall, Lynde, Hook, Sergeant. Mr. Willard prayed. ‘Then Lieut. Governour made a brave Speech upon the occasion of the Government’s being fallen on Him. After this, Col. Hutchinson came in and made 13. After twas debated, and several Acts of Parliament view’d, gave the Lieut. Governour an Oath for his due Execution of the Acts referring to Navigation, so far as they concern the Plantations. Voted a Letter to be sent to the Government of Rode-Island that they would discountenance Capt. Tu’s pro- ceedings. Voted Capt. Hamond, of Kittery, Register and Clerk in the room of Capt. Wincoll, deceased; at the Instance of Major Hook. Lieut. Governour invites, and we go to Mr. Cooper’s, where a Splendid Treat is provided, most cold meat. Councillors, Ministers, Justices there, and Col. Shrimpton, Mr. E™ Hutchinson, &c. Mr. Increase Mather Crav’d a Blessing; Mr. Willard return’d Thanks. I mov’d Mr. Willard and Mr. Cotton Mather, that, seeing the Old and South Church fell short in their singing on the Thanksgiving-day, might make it up now, if they saw meet: Mr. Willard said would sing what He intended then, pre- vented by the night: Ask’d Lieut. Governour and read the 47. Ps. Clap hands.—Spake to me and I set it. Lieut. Gov’. Usher was invited, but not there; He is gon to Prison this afternoon, as tis said, upon Mr. Shrimpton’s Execution. Feb. 9, 16945. Jacob Mason, the Instrument-maker, died last night very suddenly, as he sat in a chair at the widow Hanah Cowell’s, where he was instructing a young man in the Mariner’s Art. ‘This day there is a very extraordinary Storm of Snow. It seems Jacob Mason was in Drink. Feb. 12, 16944. Mrs. Moodey is stricken with the Palsie in her right side, and is made speechless. Mr. Moodey is sent 120 SEW VAIL Li/S DiLAtRa Ys for. The last night and this day, Feb. 12, the wether is ex- tream Cold which Mrs. Moodey always hardly bears. Feb. 15. Bastian fetches Sam’s Chest from Mr. Perry’s. It falls out so that neither he nor Mrs. Perry are at home. I gave the maid 124 and Robin a Real. Third-Day, Feb. 19, 16944. Salem-Chamber [Prayer], Samuel to be disposed to such a Master and Calling, as wherein he may abide with God. Jane, and Fathers family. Assembly that is to sit next week, that may be directed and succeeded by God, to doe for the Salvation of the Province. That a Man after God’s own heart may be chosen for a Judge. Fronteers from Albany and Kinderhook, to Pemaquid. Spring. England. Fourth-day, March 6, 16945. I had got a printed List of all the Councillors names except the Judges, that might serve for a Nomination, and indented them with Scissers, and so every one took as it pleas’d him, and put into Mr. Secretaries Hat. Elisha Cooke, Esqr. had Twenty Votes. Barthol. Ged- ney, John Hathorne, Elisha Hutchinson, John Foster, and Nathanael Thomas Esqrs. had One Vote apiece; which made up the whole number of Electors: for the Lieut. Governour voted not, sustaining the place of Governour; Col. Pynchon was not here, and Major Hook dead. So there remained 25. This day Joseph Belknaps little Son of about 4 years old, falls into scalding Wort and is kill’d. On the Sabbath a Roxbury Woman fell off her Horse and is since dead: On the day be- fore, one Trusedal, of Newton, was pulling Hay from an un- dermined Mow in the Barn, which fell upon him and kill’d him. Mr. Wheelwright is chosen to succeed Major Hook as. to the Probat of Wills, and Mr. Peperill as a Justice of the Inferiour Court. Mr. Elatson buryed his wife this day. Bearers had Scarfs and Rings; was buryed from Mr. Cole- mans. March 18, 16944. Last night I dream’d that all my Chil- dren were dead except Sarah; which did distress me sorely with SEWALL’S DIARY I2I Reflexions on my Omission of Duty towards them, as well as Breaking oft the Hopes I had of them. ‘The Lord help me thankfully and fruitfully to enjoy them, and let that be a means to awaken me. ‘This day Tim. Clark is buried, a great Funeral. He never spake after his Fall. Great Snow on the Ground. March 29, 1695. Went to the Meeting at Mr. Olivers: Major Walley sat next me, and presently after the Exercise, ask’d me if I heard the sad News from England, and then told me the Queen was dead, which was the first I heard of it. It seems Capt. Allen arriv’d yesterday at Marblehead, who brought the News, and fill’d the Town with it this day. It seems the Queen died on the 27 of December, having been sick four days of the Small Pocks. C. Allen was at Coruna about the Groin, when the Packuet came thether that brought the News of it: Whereupon the Fleet performed their usual Ceremonies, and the Merchants went into Mourning. Mr. Willard preached from Jn° 21—21, 22. to prepare men to acquiesce in the Soveraign Disposal of God as to mens honour- ing of Him in Doing, or Suffering, or both. April 1, 1695. Joseph speaking about my sending two Frenchmen to prison upon the Act relating to them, said, If this Country stand when I am a Man, I’ll drive them all out. April 3, 1695. I planted Two Locusts, two Elms at Wheelers pond, and one in Elm-Pasture near the Line over against the Middle-Elm. The middle Locust-Tree at Wheelers pond was set there the last year. Apr. 5. There is pretty much Thunder and Lightening about break of day. “Thunder seem’d to me like Great Guns at first. Tuesday, Apr. 9, 1695. Piam Blower and others from Vir- ginia and Barbados bring a Confirmation of the Queens death: and Report that the French King is dead; and his Gen! Lux- emburg; that two other duelled for the honour of his place, one fell, and the other went over to the Confederats. Ketch arrived 122 SEW. ALL Li Se DelAbRay that came from Plimouth the Tenth of February. This day father Daws makes my little Bridge. Apr. 10. When I rise in the morn I find the Ground and houses covered with Snow. Be it that Lewis the 14‘ be indeed dead &c. yet we may have a sharp, though short winter in New England still. God defend. Apr. 24. We are told from Madera, that one of the Mast- Ships is Taken and that Lewis 14 is yet alive. Very wet and Rainy Wether. Monday, April 29, 1695. The morning is very warm and Sunshiny; in the Afternoon there is Thunder and Lightening, and about 2. P.M. a very extraordinary Storm of Hail, so that the ground was made white with it, as with the blossoms when fallen; ’twas as bigg as pistoll and Musquet Bullets; It broke of the Glass of the new House about 480 Quarrels [Squares] of the Front; of Mr. Sergeant’s about as much; Col. Shrimp- ton, Major General, Gov’ Bradstreet, New Meetinghouse, Mr. Willard, &c. Mr. Cotton Mather dined with us, and was with me in the new Kitchen when this was; He had just been men- tioning that more Ministers Houses than others proportion- ably had been smitten with Lightening; enquiring what the meaning of God should be in it. Many Hail-Stones broke throw the Glass and flew to the middle of the Room, or farther: People afterward Gazed upon the House to see its Ruins. I got Mr. Mather to pray with us after this awfull Providence; He told God He had broken the brittle part of our house, and prayd that we might be ready for the time when our Clay-Tabernacles should be broken. ‘Twas a sorrow- full thing to me to see the house so far undon again before twas finish’d. It seems at Milton on the one hand, and at Lewis’s on the other, there was no Hail. I mentioned to Mr. Mather that Monmouth made his dis- cent into England about the time of the Hail in ’85, Sumer, that much cracked our South-west windows. Col. Archdel! SEWALL’S DIARY 122 Governour of Carolina comes to Town from Portsmouth this night. May 5, 1695. About 3 hours News comes to Town of the death of Sir William Phips, Feb. 18° at which people are gen- erally sad. Lay sick about a week of the new Fever as ’tis called. Cous. Hull says the talk is Mr. Dudley will be Gov- ernour. ‘Tis said the King goes over Sea again, and Seven per- sons are to have the Regency in his absence. May 6. The mourning Guns are fired at the Castle and Town for the Death of our Governour. Representatives the same as before, chosen this day. May 8, 1695. I visit my Lady, who takes on heavily for the death of Sir William. ‘Thinks the Lieutenant and Coun- cil were not so kind to him as they should have been. Was buried out of Salters Hall. This day, May 8, we have News of the Taking of Seven Vessels by a small French Pickeroon. One is a Briganteen, Mr. Greenwood, Master, out of which had 1000£ Money. Neither of the Frigats is yet got out. Friday, June 21. My dear Mother Hull tells me of Capt. Daviss Invitation, and bids me to remember to be at the Meet- ing. Mr. Willard preaches excellently. At home, at prayer, we read the 16. of the Revelation; I spake somthing to the Sixth Vial, but little thought how presently those awfull Words, Behold I come as a Thief! did concern me and my whole family: And then, and at prayer with my Wife in the Chamber, was wofully drowsy and stupid. About one at night, Jane comes up with an unusual Gate, and gives us an account of Mothers Illness, not being able to speak of a considerable time. I went to Capt. Daviss and fetched some Trecle Water and Syrup of Saffron; Dame Ellis made a Cake of Herbs to try to strengthen Mothers Stomach. In the morn Roger Judd is sent to Cambridge for Dr. Oliver, mother chusing to speak with him and no other. When he comes he advises to a Plais- ter for the Stomach, which is aplied; and a Potion made of Bezar [Bezoar] to be taken in Syrup of Saffron and Treacle 124 SEW ALLS Da RW water; of which took once or twice. About 8. or 9. I call’d Mr. Willard at her desire, who prays with her. Finding the room free once, and observing her very great weakness; I took the oportunity to thank her for all her Labours of Love to me and mine, and ask’d her pardon of our undutifullness; She, after a while, said, God Pity "Em; which was the last prayer I heard her make. About six I ask’d if I should call Mr. Wil- lard, (for had said to him that he should come again if he could). As far as I could perceive, she said, Not so soon. But I called, or sent; yet could not discern any attention to the prayer, her disease had prevail’d so far, and a little before Sunset she expired, to our very surprising Grief and Sorrow. Roger Judd was here about noon, and said, that when some in the next room spake about who should Watch, my dear Mother answer’d, She should need no Watchers, she should be above at Rest. June 24. About Seven aclock, my dear Mother is entombed. Bearers, Mr. Danforth, Russell, Cooke, Elisha Hutchinson, Addington, Sergeant. July 7. Gov". Bradstreet is seised again with his old pains. July 15. I discourse Capt. Sam!. Checkly about his taking Sam. to be his Prentice. He seems to incline to it; and in a maner all I mention it to encourage me. The good Lord direct and prosper. July 12, 1695. Kept a Day of Prayer in secret Respecting my dear Mother’s death; and Sam’s being to be placed out, &c. July 26, 1695. Poor little Mary falls down into the Cellar of Matthias Smith’s house, and cuts her head against the Stones, making a large orifice of more than two inches long; twas about 6 post meridiem. "The Lord sanctify to me this bloody Accident. Augt. 6, 1695. Mr. Obinson’s wife comes to me and com- plains of her Husband’s ill usage of her; kick’d her out of bed last night; lets her have nothing but water to drink, won’t let her have Cloths or victuals. ‘This was 2 post meridiem. SEWALL’S DIARY eis Fifth-day, Augt. 8, 1695. About 9. M. little Sarah has a Convulsion Fit; I and Mr. Torrey were sent for to see it. It lasted not long. When all quiet, Mr. Torrey went to Prayer. A little after Lecture, Sarah has another sore Fit. My wife and I take her to bed with us. Augt. 8, 1695. About six in the Morn. Sarah has another sore Fit in her Mother’s arms presently after she was brought down. Third-day, Augt. 13, 1695. We have a Fast kept in our new Chamber. Mr. Willard begins with Prayer, and preaches from 2 Chron. 34. 27. Mr. Allen prays. P.M. Mr. Bayly begins with prayer, preaches from Luke 1. 50, and then con- cludes with prayer. Sung the 27 Ps. 7—10. I set Windsor Tune and burst so into Tears that I could scarce continue singing. Mr. Thornton was here, but went away when Mr. Allen was at Prayer. Mr. Cook, and Mr. Addington here, Mr. Sergeant was diverted. Note. Had better have invited all the Council in Town, at least. I apointed this day to ask God’s Blessing after the death of my dear Mother, and in particular to bless Sam. with a Master and Calling and bless us in our new house. The Lord pardon and doe for us beyond our hopes, contrary to our Deserts. Augt. 25. Rob‘. Williams the Bell-Ringer, Publisher [Crier] and Grave-digger died this morn. He was suddenly stricken the fifth-day before, just after his ringing the five-a- clock Bell; fell down as essayed to go up his own stairs, and I think so continued speechless till death. Mr. Baily took notice of the Suddeness of it in his prayer. Second day, September 9, 1695. Set out for Bristow, with Mr. Danforth and Mr. Cook. Baited at Neponset, din’d at Billenges, where were also Mr. Newton and Mr. Cary; went to Woodcock’s, refresh’d there, so to Rehoboth; lodgd at the Bear, Sheriff was there to meet us; Major Generall also lodged there in his way home from New-London. ‘Third-day, Sept. 10. Yo Bristow by the Bridge. Had two 126 SEWALL’S DIARY Actions concerning Land. Sup at Mr. Saffin’s. I lodgd at Mr. Wilkins’s. Major Church is sick, I visit him; came with Mr. Danforth to Taunton, there din’d; from thence to Bridge- water, visited Mr. Keith. Lodg’d at our Landlord Hayward’s, who, by Mr. Danforth’s procurement, pray’d with us very well in the evening. Mr. Cook was sick and scarce slept all night. In the morn, Sept. 12, set out about Sunrise; din’d at Mr. Pain’s at Braintrey, got home a little after one of the Clock, and find all well, blessed be God. Sept. 17, 1695. Gov". Bradstreet has the remainder of his Goods put on board Mr. Graften; The house being empty, I prevail with him and his Lady to walk to our house, and wish us joy of it. They sat there near an hour with Mrs. Corwin and Wharton. Gov". Bradstreet drank a glass or two of wine, eat some fruit, took a pipe of Tabacco in the new Hall, and wish’d me joy of the house, and desired our prayers; came to us over the little Stonebridge; went away between 12. and 1. in Madam Richard’s new Coach and horses. About three, the Lieut. Governour, Mr. Secretary, Sergeant and Sewall waited on them at Madam Richards’s, to take leave; in the way the Letter met us giving an account of ten men shot at Pemaquid, out of 24. going to get wood: four of whom are dead. Hugh March, George’s Son, was killed at the first shot. ‘This was Monday was Senight. This day, Sept. 17, was a great Train- ing at Boston: many Gentlemen and Gentlewomen dine in Tents on the Common. Colonel had a Standard: Great firings most of the day. I should have remembered that Gov’. Brad- street this day sent the Halberts, Copies of the Records, and a Loadstone belonging to the Publick, to the Secretary, who caus’d them to be lodg’d at present in the Town-house Cham- ber; where I saw them when went to write Letters to Capt. March. Sept. 18. Gov" Bradstreet sets sail for Salem about Six aclock in the morning. SEWALL’S DIARY 127 This day Mr. Torrey and his wife, Mr. Willard and his wife, and Cous. Quinsey dine with us; ’tis the first time has been at our house with his new wife; was much pleas’d with our painted shutters; in pleasancy said he thought he had been got into Paradise. "This day, Sept. 18, Mr. Cook enters the Lists with Col. Paige, and sues for Capt. Keyn’s Farm again. Gov". Bradstreet arriv’d at Salem about 3 P.M. Sixth-day, Sept. 20. Mr. Borland’s Briganteen arrives, 6 weeks from Falmouth, in whom comes Mr. Edward Brattle, Mr. Governeur, &c. ‘The Lord Bellamont is made our Goy- ernour. Hardly will come over before the Spring. Oct. 12. Jn° Cunable finishes the Stairs out of the wooden house to the top of the Brick house. Little Mary grows a little better after very sore illness. Oct. 7%, Jn° Brown’s family, of Turkey hill, are led cap- tive. All are brought back save one boy that was kill’d; knock’d the rest on the head, save an infant. Oct. 14, 1695. I visit Mrs. Saunderson and pray God to grant her Mercy and Grace to help in time of need. Oct. 15. She dies. Oct. 17. Buried, so that house is emptied of its ancient Inhabitants. Sewall, Dumer, Frary, Butler, Hill, Maryon, bearers. Lord teach me to abide in, and to go out of the world. Mr. Moodey at the Funeral. Seventh day, Oct. 19, 1695. Pray’d for God’s Favour to- wards Sam. That might duely wait on Christ at his Table to morrow &c., with fasting. Oct. 26. Mr. Banistar watches, and calls me about break of day to see the Comet, which seems to point from East to West. Dec. 19. Thomas Maule, Shopkeeper of Salem, is brought before the Council to answere for his printing and publishing a pamphlet quarto, 260. pages, entituled Truth held forth and maintained, owns the book, but will not own all till sees his Copy which is at N. York with Bradford who printed it. Saith he writt ta the Gavernour of New York before he could 128 SEiw.Ad- Le SuD TARAS get it printed. Book is order’d to be burnt, being stuff’d with notorious Lyes and Scandals, and he Recognises to answer at next Court of Assize and General Goal Delivery to be held for the County of Essex. He acknowledg’d that what was written concerning the circumstance of Major General Athertons death, was a mistake: p. 112, 113. was chiefly insisted on against him; which believe was a surprize to him, he expecting to be examined in some point of Religion, as should seem by his bringing his Bible under his Arm. I was with Dame Walker, and Sam. came to call me to take T. Maule’s Recognisance; I told her Sam. was there: she pray’d God to bless him, and to bless all my posterity. Dec. 20. Dame Walker is very restless; said she was past all food now, had quite lost her Appetite. Said, why does living man complain, man for the punishment of his Sin? Jus- tified God, and pray’d Him to help her, and enable her to bear what He laid on her; spoke how hard twas to comply with that Text, Thy will be done; we would fain have our own Wills; but God could of unwilling make us willing. Last night she pray’d that God would take her to Himself. When I took leave this morn, she Thank’d me for all my Visits, and acknowledged the kindness of me and my family. After I was gon, in the Afternoon, Dec. 20. Mehetabel sais she heard her Grandmother say, How long Lord, how long? Come Lord Jesus! Mehetabel asked what she said to her, she reply’d, How good is God. Seventh day, Dec. 21. Between 8. and 9. I went to see Dame Walker, and found her very weak and much alter’d. Mehetabel told her I was there, she said with a low voice, I thank him. Afterward Mehetabel ask’d her if should pray, she said, I stand in need. “T'was the last day of the Week, and so I went to prayer, insisting on God’s being a present help in time of need, and pray’d that God would strengthen her Faith, that so she might enter into his Rest. I ask’d her if she heard, her Answer was, I thank God, I did. I went home to Prayer, SEWALL’S DIARY 129 Intending after that to go to Mr. Willard to pray him to give her one Lift more heaven-ward. But before I could get away, a Girl came runing to call me. And by that time I could get thether, the Good woman had expired, or was just expiring, being about Ten of the clock in the morning. God fulfilled his good Word in her and kept her Leaf from wither- ing. She had an odd Conceipt all the last night of her life, that she was in Travail; and though she ceas’d groaning and gave attention to me when at prayer; yet one of the last words I heard her say, was, My child is dead within me; which were indeed some of the very last. Secund day, Jan. 6 16954. Kept a Day of Fasting with Prayer for the Conversion of my Son, and his settlement in a Trade that might be good for Soul and body. Uvor praegnans est. Governour’s expected Arrival, which will bring great changes. Suply for the South-Church. ‘Three Courts sit to morrow. Lord’s Supper the next Sabbath-day. Mr. Moodey’s Entanglements, Watertown. Church of England. New Eng- land. My Hair. Read Epistles to Timothy, Titus, Phil- emon, Hebrews. Sung the 143, 51, and 130. Psalms. I had hope that seeing God pardon’d all Israel’s Iniquities, He would pardon mine, as being part of Israel. Jan. 11. 16954. I write a Letter to Mr. Zech. Walker acquainting him with his Mother’s death and Funeral; that some Recompence ought to be made to Mehetabel and Mary for their faithfull and Laborious Attendance on their Grand- mother. Altho’ I reckon my self abundantly satisfied for any little Service I did or could doe for our dear friend, by her desireable Company and harty Thanks; yet I earnestly desire your Prayers, that my aged Father and Mother may live and die with such like Faith and frame of Spirit as this our Sarah did. I delivered this Letter to be given to the Post on Second day morning, Jan. 13, 169%. About 10. aclock Jan. 13, 16954. Cous. Dumer came to 130 SEWALL’S DIARY invite me to goe along with him to Cambridge to visit Mr. Danforth. About Noon we set out, and at Mr. Danforth’s Gate, meet with Mr. N. Hobart and Trowbridge; Mr. Dan- forth made us dine there; then after awhile, Mr. Hobart was called in to Pray, which he did excellently, Mr. Morton being by, who came with us from the Colledge. Note. When were there at first, Mr. Danforth bad me look on the Cup-board’s head for a book; I told him I saw there a Law-book, Wingate on the Common Law. He said he would lend it me, I should speak to Amsden to call for it; and if he died, he would give it me. Again when took leave after prayer, He said he lent me that Book not to wrap up but to read, and if misliked it, should tell him of it. By that time Cous. and I could get to the Ferry twas quite dark. Capt. Hunting told us the River was full of Ice and no getting over. But I went to Sheaf and he hallowed over Jn° Russell again. Boat came to Ballard’s Wharf below the lodg’d Ice, from whence had a very comfortable Passage over with Madam Foxcroft. When I came in, past 7. at night, my wife met me in the Entry and told me Betty had surprised them. I was surprised with the abruptness of the Relation. It seems Betty Sewall had given some signs of dejection and sorrow; but a little after diner she burst out into an amazing cry, which caus’d all the family to cry too; Her Mother ask’d the reason; she gave none; at last said she was afraid she should goe to Hell, her Sins were not pardon’d. She was first wounded by my reading a Sermon of Mr. Norton’s, about the 5° of Jan. Text Jn° 7. 34. Ye shall seek me and shall not find me. And those words in the Sermon, Jn° 8. 21. Ye shall seek me and shall die in your sins, ran in her mind, and terrified her greatly. And staying at home Jan. 12. she read out of Mr. Cotton Mather— Why hath Satan filled thy heart, which increas’d her Fear. Her Mother ask’d her whether she pray’d. She answer’d, Yes; but feared her prayers were not heard because her Sins not par- don’d. Mr. Willard though sent for timelyer, yet not being SEWALL’S DIARY 131 told of the message, till bruised Dinsdals [?] was given him; He came not till after I came home. He discoursed with Betty who could not give a distinct account, but was confused as his phrase was, and as had experienced in himself. Mr. Willard pray’d excellently. ‘The Lord bring Light and Comfort out of this dark and dreadful Cloud, and Grant that Christ’s being formed in my dear child, may be the issue of these painfull pangs. Feb. 1. 16954. Sam. Haugh came to speak about Frank’s burial: I sent Atherton away before and spake to Sam as to his Mistress’ Maid being with child, and that she Laid it to him, and told him if she were with child by him, it concerned him seriously to consider what were best to be done; and that a Father was obliged to look after Mother and child. Christ would one day call him to an account and demand of him what was become of the child: and if [he] married not the woman, he would always keep at a distance from those whose temporal and spiritual good he was bound to promote to the uttermost of his power. Could not discern that any impres- sion was made on him. I remark’d to him the unsuitableness of his frame under a business of so great and solemn Concern. Sixth-day, Feb. 7%. Capt. Frary was pass’d by, though there, which several took notice of. Note. Last night Sam. could not sleep because of my Brother’s speaking to him of re- moving to some other place, mentioning Mr. Usher’s. I put him to get up a little wood, and he even fainted, at which Brother was much startled, and advis’d to remove him forth- with and place him somewhere else, or send him to Salem and he would doe the best he could for him. Since, I have ex- press'd doubtfullness to Sam. as to his staying there. He mention’d to me Mr. Wadsworth’s Sermon against Idle- ness, which was an Affliction to him. He said his was an idle Calling, and that he did more at home than there, take one day with another. And he mention’d Mr. Stoddard’s words to me, that should place him with a good Master, and where had full- 132 SEWALL’S DIARY ness of Imployment. It seems Sam. overheard him, and now alleged these words against his being where he was because of his idleness. Mention’d also the difficulty of the imployment by reason of the numerousness of Goods and hard to distin- guish them, many not being marked; whereas Books, the price of them was set down, and so could sell them readily. I spake to Capt. Checkly again and again, and he gave me no encour- agement that his being there would be to Sam’s profit; and Mrs. Checklv always discouraging. Mr. Willard’s Sermon from those Words, What doest thou here Elijah? was an Occasion to hasten the Removal. Feb. 10. Secund-day. I went to Mr. Willard to ask whether had best keep him at home to day. He said, No: but tell Capt. Checkly first; but when I came back, Sam was weep- ing and much discompos’d, and loth to goe because it was a little later than usual, so I thought twas hardly fit for him to go in that Case, and went to Capt. Checkly and told him how it was, and thank’d him for his kindness to Sam. Capt. Checkly desired Sam. might come to their house and not be strange there, for which I thank’d him very kindly. He presented his Service to my wife, and I to his who was in her Chamber. Capt. Checkly gave me Sam’s Copy-book that lay in a drawer. Just before I got thether, I met Mr. Grafford who told me that Mumford said I was a knave. The good Lord give me Truth in the inward parts, and finally give Rest unto my dear Son, and put him into some Calling wherein He will accept of him to Serve Him. Sabbath, Feb. 16. 16954. Mr. Emmerson preaches twice in the. new Meetinghouse at Watertown, which is the first time. Capt. Checkly’s Son Samuel is baptized with us. I was very sorrowfull by reason of the unsettledness of my Samuel. Feb. 22. 16954. Betty comes into me almost as soon as I was up and tells me the disquiet she had when waked; told me was afraid should go to Hell, was like Spira, not Elected. Ask’d SEWALL’S DIARY 120 her what I should pray for, she said, that God would pardon her Sin and give her a new heart. I answer’d her Fears as well as I could, and pray’d with many Tears on either part; hope God heard us. I gave her solemnly to God. Feb. 26. 16954. I pray’d with Sam. alone, that God would direct our way as to a Calling for him. It seems John Cornish essay’d yesterday to goe to carry Cloth to the fulling-mill, and perished in the Storm; this day was brought frozen to Town, a very sad spectacle. Sabbath, May 3, 1696. Betty can hardly read her chapter for weeping; tells me she is afraid she is gon back, does not taste that sweetness in reading the Word which once she did; fears that what was once upon her is worn off. I said what I could to her, and in the evening pray’d with her alone. Fifth-day, May 7, 1696. Col. Shrimpton marries his Son to his wive’s Sisters daughter, Elisabeth Richardson. All of the Council in Town were invited to the Wedding, and many others. Only I was not spoken to. As I was glad not to be there because the lawfullness of the intermarrying of Cousin- Germans is doubted; so it grieves me to be taken up in the Lips of Talkers, and to be in such a Condition that Col. Shrimp- ton shall be under a temptation in defence of Himself, to wound me; if any should hapen to say, Why was not such a one here? The Lord help me not to do, or neglect any thing that should prevent the dwelling of brethren together in unity. May 18. By reason of the Major Generall’s illness, I am forced to go to Ipswich Court; and being to go, my wife desir’d me to go on to Newbury; I went with Brother on Wednesday night. Visited Father, Mother, Friends, re- turn’d to Salem, got thether about Nine. Supp’d well with the Fish bought out of Wenham Pond. Between eleven and noon, ‘Tho. Messenger comes in, and brings me the amazing news of my Wive’s hard Time and my Son’s being Still-born. We get up our Horses from the Ship, and set out by Starlight about 12, yet the Bells rung for five before we got over the Ferry. 134. SEWALL’S DIARY Found my wife as well as usually; but I was grievously stung to find a sweet desirable Son dead, who had none of my help to succour him and save his Life. “The Lord pardon all my Sin, and Wandering and Neglect, and sanctify to me this singular Affliction. 27 At the Council the Lt. Gov’. reads the Letters that give notice from the Lords of a French Squadron intending for America: they will afford us what Assistance they can under the present Circumstance of Affairs. Reads also Mr. Blath- wayts Letter recomending the subscribing the Association by all in publick place and Trust, with one drawn for that pur- pose. ‘This day also receiv’d an Express from Col. Pynchon, of Count Frontenac’s coming agt the 5 Nations, or Albany, or N. E., or all, with 2000 French and 1000 Indians: Casteen with 4 or 500 to hold us in play the mean while. ‘The wind coming North last night ships arrive at Nantasket this morn. Mr. Myles and Bullivant come to Town. Fourth day Augt. 5. Mr. Melyen, upon a slight occasion, spoke to me very smartly about the Salem Witchcraft: in dis- course he said, if a man should take Beacon hill on ’s back, carry it away; and then bring it and set it in its place again, he should not make any thing of that. Seventh-day, Augt. 15%. Brot. St. Sewall comes to Town; Gets an order to Col. Hathorne for erecting a Beacon on Pigeon hill on Cape-Anne, and for pressing 20. men at Marble- head. ‘This day vessels arrive from Barbados, bring news of 10. great ships at Petit Quavers, of between 60 and 90 Guns. Mr. Williams, the physician, and his wife are both dead. Mrs. Hatch and her children in Tears for the death of her husband, which was brought to her about an hour by Sun. We are in pain for Saco fort. Guns were heard thrice on fifth day all day long. One Peters and Hoyt scalp’d at Andover this week; were not shot, but knock’d on the head. Sept”. 10. Letter. Mrs. Martha Oakes. Not finding op- ortunity to speak with you at vour house, nor at my own, I SEWALL’S DIARY L265 write, to persuade you to be sensible that your striking your daughter-in-law before me, in my house, is not justifiable: though twas but a small blow, twas not a small fault: espe- cially considering your promise to refrain from speech it self; or at least any that might give disturbance. As for New Eng- land, It is a cleaner Country than ever you were in before, and, therefore, with disdain to term it filthy, is a sort of Blasphemie, which, by proceeding out of your mouth, hath defiled you. I write not this to upbraid, but to admonish you, with whom I sympathize under your extraordinary provocations and pres- sures; and pray God comand you freedom from them. S. 8. S'. 16. Keep a day of Prayer in the East end of the Town- House, Gov", Council and Assembly. Mr. Morton begun with Prayer, Mr. Allin pray’d, Mr. Willard preached—If God be with us who can be against us?—-Spake smartly at last about the Salem Witchcrafts, and that no order had been suf- fer’d to come forth by Authority to ask Gods pardon. Oct". 3, 1696. Mr. Joseph Baxter lodges here, being to preach for Mr. Willard on the Sabbath: Deacon Frary came to me on Friday; told me Mr. Willard put him upon getting help on the fifth day at even, because disapointed of Mr. Spar- hawk. He sent that even to Braintrey; but for fear of failing rode thether himself on Sixth-day morn and secured Him: After the Meeting at Bro’. Wheelers, came and told me of it, and earnestly proposed to me that He might lodge at my house; which I thought I could not avoid except I would shut my doors against one of Christ’s servants; which I also inclin’d to, only was afraid lest som should take offence. And my Library was convenient for Him. Fifth day Oct™ 22. Capt. Byfield Marries his daughter De- bora to James Lyde, before Mr. Willard. Mr. Sparhawk would have had her. Oct™. 29'® Clouds hinder our sight of the eclipsed Moon; though tis aparently dark by means of it. Oct’ 30. Mr. Wigglesworth tells me that one John Buck- nam of Malden, above 50 years old, has been perfectly dumb 136 SEWALL’S DIARY near 18 years, and now within about 3 weeks has his under- standing and speech restored. He is much affected with the Goodness of God to him herein. 24 day, Nov’ 2. Mary goes to Mrs. Thair’s to learn to Read and Knit. Second-day, Nov". 30. Many Scholars go in the After noon to Scate on Fresh-pond; William Maxwell, and John Eyre fall in and are drown’d. Just about Candle-lighting the news of it is brought to Town, which affects persons exceedingly. Mr. Eyre the father cryes out bitterly. Decr. 1. The body of Jn° Eyre is brought to Town. Dec'. 3. is buried. Minis- ters of Boston had Gloves and Rings, Counsellors Gloves, of Boston. Bearers, Hutchinson, Dudley, Sim. Bradstreet, Dumer Jer., Jn° Winthrop, Belchar. Maxwell was buried at Cambridge. Paul Miller, his 2 sons, and about 4 more drowned last week; vessel and corn lost coming from Barstable. Dec’. 2. 1696. Now about Capt. Byfield brings in a long Bill from the deputys for a Fast and Reformation, written by Mr. Cotton Mather, to which a Streamer was added expressing that Partiality in Courts of Justice was obvious; with a Vote on it that 500 should be printed, should be read; and sent up for Concurrence: ’twas deny’d; and our Bill for a Fast was sent down; Dept® deny’d; and our Bill for a Fast was sent down; Dept® deny’d that. Gov’. told them the way was un- usual, they had taken, sending out a Comittee, calling the Min- isters, voting all, and never letting the Council know: that it pertain’d principally to the Gov". and Council to set forth such orders with a motion from them. A while after Capt. Byfield came in, and said ’twas no new thing, and they had taken no wrong step. Little was said to him. It seems this message is enter’d in their Booke. The Council were exceedingly grieved to be thus roughly treated. About Dec’. 18, Mr. Ma- ther, Allen, Willard, C. Mather give in a paper subscribed by them, shewing their dislike of our draught for the Colledge SUR WrA tal) (oD iA Ray 137 Charter, and desiring that their Names might not be entered therein. One chief reason was their apointing the Gov’. and Council for Visitor. Dec’. 21. A very great Snow is on the Ground. I go in the morn to Mr. Willard, to entreat him to chuse his own time to come and pray with little Sarah: He comes a little before night, and prays very fully and well. Mr. Mather, the Pres- ident, had pray? with her in the time of the Courts sitting. Dec’. 22. being Catechising day, I give Mr. Willard a note to pray for my daughter publickly, which he did. Note, this morn Madam Elisa Bellingham came to our house and up- braided me with setting my hand to pass Mr. Wharton’s acc? to the Court, where he obtain’d a Judgmt for Eustace’s farm. I was wheadled and hector’d into that business, and have all along been uneasy in the remembrance of it: and now there is one come who will not spare to lay load. “The Lord take away my filthy garments, and give me change of Rayment. This day I remove poor little Sarah into my Bed-chamber, where about Break of Day Dec’. 23. she gives up the Ghost in Nurse Cowell’s Arms. Born, Nov. 21. 1694. Neither I nor my wife were by: Nurse not expecting so sudden a change, and having promis’d to call us. I thought of Christ’s Words, could you not watch with me one hour! and would fain have sat up with her: but fear of my wives illness, who is very valetudinarious, made me to lodge with her in the new Hall, where was call’d by Jane’s Cry, to take notice of my dead daughter. Nurse did long and pathetically ask our pardon that she had not call’d us, and said she was surpriz*. ‘Thus this very fair day is rendered fowl to us by reason of the gen- eral Sorrow and ears in the family. Master Chiever was here the evening before, I desir’d him to pray for my daughter. ‘The Chapt’ read in course on Dec’. 23. m. was Deut. 22. which made me sadly reflect that I had not been so thorowly tender of my daughter; nor so effectually carefull of her Defence and preservation as I should have been. The good Lord pity and 138 SEWAL LY! SOAR pardon and help for the future as to those God has still left me. Dect 24. Sam. recites to me in Latin, Mat. 12. from the 6 to the end of the 12° v. The 7 verse did awfully bring to mind the Salem Tragedie. 6 day, Dec’. 25, 1696. We bury our little daughter. In the chamber, Joseph in course reads Ecclesiastes 3°. a time to be born and a time to die—Elisabeth, Rev. 22. Hanah, the 38" Psalm. I speak to each, as God helped, to our mutual com- fort I hope. I order’d Sam. to read the 102. Psalm. Elisha Cooke, Edw. Hutchinson, John Baily, and Josia Willard bear my little daughter to the Tomb. Note. ‘Iwas wholly dry, and I went at noon to see in what order things were set; and there I was entertain’d with a view of, and converse with, the Coffins of my dear Father Hull, Mother Hull, Cousin Quinsey, and my Six Children: for the little posthumous was now took up and set in upon that that stands on John’s: so are three, one upon another twice, on the bench at the end. My Mother ly’s on a lower bench, at the end, with head to her Husband’s head: and I order’d little Sarah to be set on her Grandmother’s feet. ’Iwas an awfull yet pleasing Treat; Having said, The Lord knows who shall be brought hether next, I came away. Mr. Willard pray’d with us the night before; I gave him a Ring worth about 20%. Sent the President one, who is sick of the Gout. He pray? with my little daughter. Mr. Oakes, the Physician, Major Townsend, Speaker, of whoes wife I was a Bearer, and was join’d with me in going to Albany and has been Civil and treated me several times. Left a Ring at Madam Cooper’s for the Governour. Gave not one pair of Gloves save to the Bearers. Many went to the Church this day, I met them coming home, as went to the Tomb. 7 day Dect 26. Roger Judd tells me of a ship arriv’d at Rode Island from England, and after, that Mr. Ive has written that most judged the King of France was dead, or dying. Ship comes SEWALL’S DIARY 139 from New Castle, several weeks after the Falkland. Jan” 1. 6 day 16964. One with a Trumpet sounds a Levet [Blast] at our window just about break of day, bids me good morrow and wishes health and hapiness to attend me. I was awake be- fore, and my wife, so we heard him: but went not to the window, nor spake a word. ‘The Lord fit me for his coming in whatsoever way it be. Mr. Willard had the Meeting at his house to day, but We had no Invitation to be there as is usual. On the 22 of May I buried my abortive son; so neither of us were then admitted of God to be there, and now the Owners of the family admit us not: It may be I must never more hear a Sermon there. The Lord pardon all my Sins of Omission and Commission: and by his Almighty power make me meet to be partaker of the Inheritance with the S* in Light. Second-day Jan’ 11, 1696 God helped me to pray more than ordinarily, that He would make up our Loss in the burial of our little daughter and other children, and that would give us a Child to Serve Him, pleading with Him as the In- stitutor of Marriage, and the Author of every good work. Jan’ 15. Gridley’s wife dies in child-bed. [PETITION PUT UP BY Mr. SEWALL ON THE Fast Day.] Copy of the Bill I put up on the Fast day; giving it to Mr. Willard as he pass’d by, and standing up at the reading of it, and bowing when finished; in the Afternoon. Samuel Sewall, sensible of the reiterated strokes of God upon himself and family; and being sensible, that as to the Guilt contracted upon the opening of the late Comission of Oyer and Terminer at Salem (to which the order for this Day relates) he is, upon many accounts, more concerned than any that he knows of, Desires to take the Blame and shame of it, Asking pardon of men, And especially desiring prayers that God, who has an Unlimited Authority, would pardon that sin and all other his sins; personal and Relative: And according to 140 SEWALL’S DIARY his infinite Benignity, and Sovereignty, Not Visit the sin of him, or of any other, upon himself or any of his, nor upon the Land: But that He would powerfully defend him against all ‘Temptations to Sin, for the future; and vouchsafe him the efh- cacious, saving Conduct of his Word and Spirit. Jan’ 26. 169% I lodged at Charlestown, at Mrs. Shepards, who tells me Mr. Harvard built that house. I lay in the chamber next the street. As I lay awake past midnight, In my Meditation, I was affected to consider how long agoe God had made provision for my comfortable Lodging that night; seeing that was Mr. Harvards house: And that led me to think of Heaven the House not made with hands, which God for many ‘Thousands of years has been storing with the richest furniture (saints that are from time to time placed there), and that I had some hopes of being entertain’d in that Magnificent Con- venient Palace, every way fitted and furnished. ‘These thoughts were very refreshing to me. Jan¥ 28. 1696 Mr. Palmer marries Mrs. Abigail Hutch- inson. Febr. 4 Bro™ Hawkins and his wife, the TThurtons, Sam. and Atherton Haugh, Joseph Gerrish and W™. Longfellow dine with us. Febr. 5. extream cold, which discern not when Joseph went away. ‘This evening Mr. Willard, Bromfield, Eyre, Sergeant, Frary, Hill, Williams, Oliver, Checkly, Davis, Wally, Stoddard, met at my house. Mr. Willard pray’d. ‘Then discours’ what was best to be done relating to the desires of some for a meeting; whether twere best to call one, or no. Mr. Willard shew’ his resentments of the disorderly carriage in striving to bring in Mr. Bradstreet, after only thrice preach- ing [as a candidate for the South Church], and that in that way, he should not be settled with us till he Mr. W. was in his Grave. ‘That he had a Negative, and was not only a Mod- erator. Shew’d his dislike of the Person and his Preaching, inferiour to the ministerial Gifts of others. Before the Meet- SEWALL’S DIARY I4t ing broke up, I said his Preaching was very agreeable to me, I thought not of him, had no hand in bringing him to preach, had prejudices against him, was ready to start at first when any spake of fixing on him; yet as often as he preached, he came nearer and nearer to me. Spake this chiefly because all that Mr. Willard had said of Mr. Bradstreet, had been exceedingly undervaluing: and because Mr. Willard said no body had been with him to speak to him about Mr. Bradstreet but Mr. Stod- dard. Mr. Oliver said if Mr. Willard were so averse, had rather let it rest. Sometimes said were now ready for a new Meetinghouse. Some, Let us call Mr. Bailey. At last agreed to mention the matter to the church after the Afternoon Ex- ercise. Febr. 7. Mr. Willard recapitulats how long he had been our Pastor; near 20. years; and near 18. years alone, had to his measure served God faithfully, was desirous of Help, lay not in him, yet had none; if what he propounded more than a year ago had been attended, might have made for the Glory of God. Ask’d if now were ready to pitch on any; if were, then must have a Fast. None speake; at last Capt. Ephr. Sav- age desired might meet in sons dwelling house, many were there present which were not of us. Mr. Willard assented, and on Mr. Sergeants motion, apointed to meet at his house, 15. Instt at 2 p.m. When at our house, some said Charles- town being before us, to call a Fast after they had call’d Mr. Bradstreet would be evil spoken of: the person of their desires being gon. Some said that Fasting now at Charlestown and here was but a Trick; not just so: but tending that way. Mr. Willard said Charlestown would be before us, do what we could; and if they call’d him ’twas not fit for us to meddle till he had given his Answer: som look’d at this as Artifice in the Ministers to prevent the South Church. For when Mr. Wil- lard propounded Mr. Pemberton by name, 1695, No Fast pre- ceded. If Mr. Willard had not so propounded, believe the thing had been issued at that time: but many look’d on it as an Imposition and tending to infringe their Liberty of choice. I 142 SEWALL’S DIARY had been with Mr. Willard the day before, and told him some scruples that I was not just ready to act till had enquired further. Feb. 8. Mr. Bromfield and Eyre call me, and we visit Mr. H. Usher, who is now brought to Town about a week ago; Lay at Malden some time by reason of a fall from ’s horse last 4» day five weeks. Febr. 9. I visit Mr. Willard: spake with him after he began, about our conference last 6 day, told him the reason of my speaking as I did; because had heard he should say, I fore’d the Church Meeting: whereas I intended not so; but as we had engaged silence, I told him my heart; as I said I always did when he confer’d with me and enquired of me in such cases. He said was sorry he propounded Mr. Pemberton as he did. Seem’d to resent my saying: That the Negative was a high point, and better not to talk of it then (which at the conference) term’d it a check, I think parted good friends. Much vilified Mr. Bradstreet; hardly allowed him any thing but a Memory, and the Greek Tongue, with a Little poesy. I said what shall Charlestown doe? Answer was, Let them do as they please. Mr. Willard is to assist on the Fast Day, which proves very cold, 4 day Feb. 10. Feb. 10. 4 day 169% Goodw. Duen putting on a Rugg and going into our house much scares the children; so that come running to me throw the old Hall, with a very amazing Cry. I was sawing wood; and much surpris’'d. Wife came and all. ‘The Lord save me and his people from astonishing, suddain, desolating Judgmts; pardon all my folly and pervert- ing my way, and help me to walk with a right foot. This was between 10 and 11. aclock. m. Deacon Maryon went from hence but a little before. March 27, 1697. About 10. at night Gov’ Bradstreet dyes; which we are told of March, 29% at Cambridge, where we were upon the account of Mrs. Danforth’s Funeral. Madam Leverett, Madam Cook, and my wife and I rode together in the Coach. SEWALL’S DIARY 143 Sixth-day, Apr. 2. 1697. Lieut-Governour, Mr. Secretary, Col. Shrimpton, and Sewall ride to Salem. It rain’d most of the way, and yet, a little beyond the Butts, Col. Gedney met the Gov". with a small Troop; and in the Rain led us along through the Town to the Fort, to view it and see what condi- tion ’twas in; and also the Brest-Work: From thence went back to Col. Gedney’s. Governour, Mr. Secretary, Col. Phillips and Sewall dined there: From about two post merid- iem, the wether clear’d and was warm. About 3 was the Funeral; Bearers, Mr. Danforth, Major Gen. Winthrop, Mr. Cook, Col. Hutchinson, Sewall, Mr. Secretary: Col. Gedney and Major Brown led the Widow; I bore the Feet of the Corps into the Tomb, which is new, in the Old Burying place. April 29. 5 day is signalised by the Atchievment of Hanah Dustin, Mary Neff, and Samuel Lenerson; who, kill’d Two men [Indians], their Masters, and two women and 6. others, and have brought in Ten Scalps. May 1. 1697. The first Sheet of Phenomena Apocalyptica is wrought off. 34 day May 11. Elisabeth Sewall, and Joana Gerrish set sail for Newbury in Edward Poor, between 10. and 11. a-clock, fair wind. Sent my Father a cheese and Barrel of Flower by him. Aunt Quinsey, and Cousin Edmund here. Fourth-day, May 12., very brisk Southerly wind; so that hope Betty is got well to Newbury. ‘This day wrought off the first half-sheet of the Phenomena; which I corrected my self. Hanah Dustan came to see us; I gave her part of Conecticut Flax. She saith her Master, whom she kill’d, did formerly live with Mr. Roulandson at Lancaster: He told her, that when he pray’d the English way, he thought that was good: but now he found the French way was better. The single man shewed the night before, to Sam’. Lenarson, how he used to knock Englishmen on the head and take off their Scalps; little thinking that the Captives would make some of their first experiment upon himself. Sam. Lenarson kill’d him. Fourth-day; Sept’. 8. 1697. The Governour and Council. 144 SEWALL’S DIARY first meet in the Council-Chamber, as it is now fitted with ciel- ing, Glazing, Painting, new Floor that brings it to a Level; New Hearth even with it. Deputies sent for in; Lt Gover- nour made a Speech, that as they saw by the many Proroga- tions, He hoped my Lord should have now receiv’d them. I presented his Honour with the view of a half-sheet, which begins In quatuor angulis terra. Col. Pierce gave an account of the Body of Lime-Stone discover’d at Newbury, and the order of the Selectmen published by James Brown, Dept. Sheriff, to prohibit any persons from carrying any more away under the penalty of 20%. It seems they began to come with Teams by 30. in a day: The Town will have a Meeting, and bring it to some Regulation. Our Momford saith tis good Marble. Ens. James Noyes found it out. Sept’ 14. Went to Bristow over the Ferry, Bridge being down. Lodge at Mr. Wilkins; were met by sundry of Bris- tow Gentlemen. Issued our Business to good Satisfaction to our selves; Fourth-day was a storm, else might have husbanded it so as to have come to Rehoboth that night: But are glad of the Rain after so sore a Drought. Sept’ 16. fifth-day, Mr. Danforth and I and our men, set out to come home, Not one creature accompanying us to the Ferry. Had a very comfortable Journey No Dust moving. Visited Mr. Greenwood Din’d at Woodcocks with boil’d ven- ison. Discours’d with a Lin Quaker removing to Philadelphia, one Burrel; Advis’d him to read the 35% of Jeremiah: ‘The Contents in that Bible mentioned Pride, which he was guilty of. Go by Wrentham; visit Mr. Mann, who hath 11. chil- dren. From thence to Medfield, Lodge at Capt. Barbers, visit Mrs. Wilson in the even; give her 4 p* 8 [pieces of eight, Spanish dollars]. Sept’ 17. I view Mr. Baxters House and the Orchard Capt Frary hath given to the Ministry, which lies very convenient; A living Brook runing by it; and throw Mr Baxters. Visit Capt. Thurston, who was glad to see me. When at Dedham SEWALL’S DIARY 146 visit Mr. Belchar; Mr. Whitman is there, are going to Con- necticut. Go home a little before one post meridiem. Is a Rumor at Rehoboth that Col. Gibson is gon into Canada. One Jamison brought on the news of our Armys Engagement. Blessed be God who hath carried us out and brought us home safely and that preserves so many of our Towns like Flocks of Sheep in a howling Wilderness, naked and defenceless. Sixth-day, Oct™ 1. 1697. Jer. Balchar’s sons came for us to go to the Island. My Wife, through Indisposition, could not goe: But I carried Sam. Hanah, Elisa, Joseph, Mary and Jane Tapan: I prevail’d with Mr. Willard to goe, He carried Simon, Elisabeth, William, Margaret, and Elisa Tyng: Had a very comfortable Passage thither and home again; though against Tide: Had first Butter, Honey, Curds and Cream. For Diner, very good Rost Lamb, Turkey, Fowls, Aplepy. After Diner sung the 121 Psalm. Note. A Glass of spirits my Wife sent stood upon a Joint-Stool which, Simon W. jog- ging, it fell down and broke all to shivers: I said twas a lively Emblem of our Fragility and Mortality. When came home met Capt Scottow led between two: He came to visit me and fell down and hurt himself; bruis’d his Nose, within a little of our House. Upon the fourth day of the Week Sept™ 29, 1697, A Coun- cil met at Plimouth: Sept’ 30. fifth day, They published their Advice, that Mr. Cotton should make an orderly secession from the Church. Advis’d the Church to dismiss him with as much Charity as the Rule would admit of; and provide for themselvs. This was for his Notorious Breaches of the Seventh Comandmt, and Undue Carriage in Chusing Elders. ‘Thus Christs words are fulfilled, Unsavoury Salt is cast to the Dunghill. A most aw- full Instance! Fifth-day, Nov’ 48 Guns fired with respect to the King’s Birth-day. At night great Illumination made in the Town. house; Governour and Council and many Gentlemen there. 146 SEWALL’S DIARY About 8. Mr. Brattle and Newman let fly their Fireworks from Cotton-Hill; Governour and Council went thither with a Trumpet sounding. Note. Governour, Mr. Secretary and I went to see Mr. Morton; before these works began, Had the Epistle to his Honour, a proof of it, in my pocket: but had not oportunity to shew it: was taken this day. I went and visited Mr. Baily, who discoursed pretty cheerily. Fourth-day Nov’ 10%. L*t Governour and Council met at the Council Chamber, were warn’d by Maxwell the day before. I took that oportunity to present the Lt Governour with seven Phenomena! I said the Records and References were laid before his Hon™ as it were in open Court; and pray’d that his Honour would judge of the Cause according to its own Merits, and not according to the deficiency of the Attorney, who had fallen short as to the duely urging of many proper pleas. His Honour said it should be favourably Judged of. In the even- ing, not having a Thanksgiving sermon at hand, I resolv’d to read in course, not thinking what the Chapter might be, and it prov’d to be Luke, 1. I aplied Marys question to the busi- ness of the Natives; Though means fail’d, God could easily convert them: Sung the song of Zecharra and Simeon. In the morn. Nov? 12° Sung in course the 24 Ps., which was not aware of till my Son named it. Much Rain fell this day and night following; which was extreamly needed, for the Wells, for Cattell to drink, and for the Mills. Sixth-day, Nov’. 19. Mr. Higginson comes as far as Brothers to see me; which I wonder’d at. Mr. Hale and I lodg’d together: He discours’d me about writing a History of the Witchcraft; I fear lest he go into the other extream. Came home with the Maj’ General, din’d at Madam Paiges; there found Hancock, Allen, and Sam. Haugh. Found all well, Laus Deo. Jan’ 23, 169% Very Cold. Mr. Fitch preacheth with us and pronounceth the Blessing, Mr. Willard not being there, by reason of illness: “Text was, The Lord is my shepherd &c. SEWALL’S DIARY 147 Mr. Willard comes abroad in the Afternoon, and preacheth excellently; baptiseth a child and a woman. Very thin As- semblies this Sabbath, and last; and great Coughing: very few women there. Mr. Willard pray’d for mitigation of the wether; and the south Wind begins to blow with some vigor. My clock stood still this morning, and yesterday morn, which has not done many years. Fourth-day, Febr. 9. Last night, about nine of the clock, Col. Shrimpton dyes of an Apoplexy. Capt. Ichabod Plaisted told me of it. He was seen at his door the last Sixth Day. I gave my Letters to Capt. Plaisted to carry to Newbury. Sec- ond-day, Febr. 14, 169% Col. Sam’. Shrimpton was buried with Arms; Ten Companies, 8, Muddy River and Sconce: No Horse nor ‘Trumpet: but a Horse led—Mr. Dyers, the Colonel’s, would not endure the cloathing: Mourning Coach also and Horses in Mourning: Scutcheon on their sides and Deaths heads on their foreheads: Coach stood by the way here and there and mov’d solitarily. Bearers Maj™ Gen! Win- throp, Mr. Cook, L*. Col. Hutchinson, Mr. Addington, Capt. Foster, Maj? Walley. Mr. E™ Hutchinson and Mr. Allen led the widow, Capt. Clark fired twelve great guns at the Sconce, began as march’d to the New-burying place where the Corps was set int [sic] to the two wives. Very fair and large Paths were shovel’d by great pains and cost, three in the Burying place, one direct to the Tomb, the other compassing by the sides in which the souldiers stood Drawn up. W™ Scovel being well and having on his new Coat, I fitted him with my Musket, Rapier, mourning, Amunition, and he serv’d in the South-Com- pany. Febr. 15. Remarkable Sun-dogs and a Rainbow were seen. Febr. 16. Mr. Chr. Tapan comes hether. Sam. reads the 2 Habakkuk out of course at evening prayer; next morn reads the 90° Psalm in course. Secret sins in the light of thy coun- tenance, pained me. Feb. 19. I go over the Ice and visit Mr. Morton, who keeps his bed. 148 SEW ATLAS Dw aR Second-day, March 7. Set out for Plimouth about 10. mane. Get to Barkers and lodge there. Maj’ General set out about Noon and came to us at Barkers in the night. March, 8. Get to Plimouth about Noon, Are entertain’d at Cole’s. Send two mile for Mr. Little, who prays at the opening of the Court: invite him to Diner: Speak not to Mr. Cotton. I lodge at Cole’s, the house was built by Gov’ Wins- low and is the oldest in Plimouth. March, 9. Word is brought us that our Horses are broke out of themselves, or else are taken out of the stable; viz. four, Maj* Generals, Mr. Cooks, mine, and Mingo’s Sent presently to their flat-house, but hear nothing of them. Court rises. Capt. Byfield goes home. Mr. Cook and I linger hoping to hear of our horses and trying to get more. Fifth-day, March 10. I walk out in the morn. to see the Mill, then turn up to the Graves, come down by the Meetinghouse, and seeing the door partly open, went in and found a very convenient Oportunity to pray, the wind being cold; for my self and family, for Plimouth, Bp Stoke, the Province, &c. Maj* General, Mr. Sherriffe, Mr. Ward, Master of a Connecticut Sloop, and I Dine together at Coles. I pay for Ward because invited him, and Maj? General for the Sheriffe. Had large discourse in the even with Mrs. Cotton, Mr. Cotton, Mr. Rowland. I told Mr. Coton, a free confession was the best way; spake of Davids roaring all the day long and bones waxing old whilest he kept silence. I spake with Deacon Fance today, sent for him to Mr. Cotton’s: It seems upon the 5th of October, The Church, by speaking one by one, declared their Mind was to Release Mr. Cotton from his office-bond as Pastor; sent to Mr. Cotton to meet them (they were at Shirtly’s, 25 in number, some that could not come sent their minds to the same effect: and New Society ready to do it). Mr. Cotton to come to the Meeting-house, thither they goe, and there Deacon Fance declares what the church had done. Mr. Cotton was at Cole’s: when ready to come away March, 11. I said his danger was lest catching at SEWALL’S DIARY 149 shadows, he should neglect the cords thrown out to him by Christ and so be drown’d. Some of my last words to him was, Kisse the Son, lest he be angry! ‘This was in the house between him and me alone. Just as was mounting, He desired me to pray for him till I heard he was dead. As came along, went a little out of our way and came to Duxbury houses; so then resolv’d to visit Mr. Wiswall, who had been long sick of the Gout, and was very glad to see us. Gave us a very good Goose to Diner. It rained, and got but to Barkers that night. My horse flounder’d in a bank of Snow, and threw me off; but had no hurt: Laus Deo. Dine at Cushings, Get home a little before Sunset and find all well, blessed be God. Fourth-day, March 16. 169%. I sent to the college Library my Phenomena, well bound in calvs Leather, with Mr. Oakee’s election sermon, and Mr. Willard’s Tract about Swearing; by Josiah Cotton. Thorsday Apr. 7th. 1698. I acquainted Mr. Brenton that I had sold my 600. Acre Lot at Narraganset, as suposing he had no mind to hire it, but was cold in the matter, going away to Rode-Island and not perfecting the Lease, nor offering me any to sign, nor desiring me to stay till he should come back, that I remember. Bro St. Sewall visits us this day; lodges here Thorsday night and Friday night. Sixth-day, April 8. I visited Mr. Morton. I was told he was asleep, but went in, and when I drew nigh his Beds side, he earnestly streach’d out his flaming hand to me, and strove to speak, but could not. I think the first I heard him say was, Sir, I asked him how he did in such long illness. He at first said, That which can’t be cur’d must be endur’d. But seem’d presently after to correct himself and say, I desire patiently to submit to the hand of God. A while after I said, you canot speak to me, but you can speak to God, which is a thousand times better; I pray that God would help you to speak to him, and that he would graciously hear you when you doe speak. 150 SEW ALD S d Mr. Mather to promote Col. Thomas’s being brought into the Superior Court, if there was oportunity: the 12‘ Feb’. is apointed for a Nomination. Jan¥ 30. 170% John Neesnummin [Indian Preacher] comes to me with Mr. R. Cotton’s Letters; I shew him to Dr. Mather. Bespeak a Lodging for him at Matthias Smith’s: but after they sent me word they could not doe it. So I was fain to lodg him in my Study. Jan’ 31 p.m. I send him on his 190 SEWALL’S DIARY way towards Natick, with a Letter to John Trowbridge to take him in if there should be occasion. About half an hour by sun I went to the Funeral of my neighbour Sam Engs: I went first with Mr. Meers, and then with Mr. Pemberton, who talk’d to me very warmly about Mr. Cotton Mather’s Letter to the Gov", sem’d to resent it, and expect the Gov" should animadvert upon him. See Feb. 6. Said if he were as the Gov’ he would humble him though it cost him his head; Speaking with great vehemency just as I parted with him at his Gate. The Lord apear for the Help of his people. Second-day, Feb™ 9. 170%. ‘The Apointment of a Judge for the Super. Court being to be made upon next Fifth day, Febr. 12, I pray’d God to Accept me in keeping a private day of Prayer with Fasting for That and other Important Matters: I kept it upon the Third day Febr. 10. 170% in the uper Chamber at the North-East end of the House, fastening the Shutters next the Street. Perfect what is lacking in my Faith, and in the faith of my dear Yokefellow. Convert my children; especially Samuel and Hanah; Provide Rest and Set- tlement for Hanah: Recover Mary, Save Judith, Elisabeth and Joseph: Requite the Labour of Love of my Kinswoman Jane Tappin, Give her health, find out Rest for her. Make David a man after thy own heart, Let Susan live and be baptised with the Holy Ghost, and with fire. Relations. Steer the Govern- ment in this difficult time, when the Governour and many others are at so much Variance: Direct, incline, overrule on the Council-day fifth-day, Febr. 12. as to the special Work of it in filling the Super. Court with Justices; or any other thing of like nature; as Plim® infer Court. Bless the Company for propagation of the Gospel, especiall Gov" Ashurst &c. Revive the Business of Religion at Natick, and accept and bless John Neesnumin who went thither last week for that end. Mr. Rawson at Nantucket. Bless the South Church in preserving and spiriting our Pastor; in directing unto suitable Supply, and making the Church unanimous: Save the Town, College; SEWALL’S DIARY Igl Province from Invasion of Enemies, open, Secret, and from false Brethren: Defend the Purity of Worship. Save Connec- ticut, bless their New Governour: Save the Reformation under N. York Governm't. Reform all the European Plantations in America; Spanish, Portuguese, English, French, Dutch; Save this New World, that where Sin hath abounded, Grace may Superabound; that CHRIST who is stronger, would bind the strong man and spoil his house; and order the Word to be given, Babylon is _ fallen. Save our Queen, lengthen out her Life and Reign. Save France, make the Proud helper stoop [Job. LX. 13], Save all Europe; Save Asia, Africa, Eu- rope and America. “These were gen! heads of my Meditation and prayer; and through the bounteous Grace of GOD, I had a very Comfortable day of it. Feria quinta, March, 25, 1708. Intending to set out for Plimouth the 27. I went to the Major Gen!* and to Mrs. Sergeant’s to Receive their Bills if they pleas’d to pay them: found neither at home, and so went not in. Coming back, in the prison-Lane I met Mr. Sergeant. He ask’d me where I had been, I told him at his house: He said, What for, Money? I said Yes. At which he was angry, and said I was very hasty, I knew very little of that nature. He would enquire how others paid me &c. I told him I was going out of Town, this was the day, and I thought it convenient to offer the Bills; he said he should not break; and at last call’d out aloud, he should not break before I came back again! I know no reason for this Anger; the Lord sanctify it to me, and help me to seek more his Grace and favour. This day was very stormy with Rain, and then with Snow; a pretty deal of Thunder. Maj Cutler was with me in the morning. Feria Sexta, April, 2. Last night I dream’d that I had my daughter Hirst in a little Closet to pray with her; and of a sudden she was gon, I could not tell how; although the Closet was so small, and not Cumber’d with Chairs or Shelves. I was much affected with it when I waked. 192 SEWALL’S DIARY Feria septima, Apr. 3. I went to Cous. Dumer’s to see his News-Letter: while I was there Mr. Nath! Henchman came in with his Flaxen Wig; I wish’d him Joy, i. e. of his Wed- ding. I could not observe that he said a Word to me; and gen- erally he turn’d his back upon me, when none were in the room but he and I. This is the Second time I have spoken to him, in vain, as to any Answer from him. First was upon the death of his Wife, I cross’d the way near our house, and ask’d him how he did: He only shew’d his Teeth. Feria secunda, Apr. 5. Great Rain, whereby I am pre- vented meeting Major Thaxter at Milton to run a Line, as I intended. Feria secunda, Apr. 12, 1708. I went and met Major Thaxter at Miller’s at Milton to run the Lines of the 300. Acres bought of Mr. Stoughton; Cousin Quinsey, Mr. Swift, Miller, White, Hunt, assisted us.) Mr. William Rawson, hav- ing Land adjoining, was with us all day; Billing a considerable while. Capt. Culliver and others perambulating for Braintrey and Milton, went with us from B. to C. which was measured, whereby the place we set out from was ascertain’d to be the North Corner, of which there was some doubt before: At C. the old white Oak mark with H., we drank a Bottle of Madera together, read the Queens Speech to the first Parliament of great Britain, and so took leave of the perambulators. Major ‘Thaxter, Cous. Quinsey, and White went quite through the Swamp, marking Trees: southward of the Swamp is a small Chestnut White-Oak; a little after that the Line brushes by a Ledge of Rocks, touches them. At D. the Oak upon the Rock is cut down injuriously, there it lyes and no use made of it: by the Stump grows up a fine little Chestnut Oak, which was prun’d; twas double and one is cut away to make the other grow the better. In the Line from D to A found several Trees mark’d with H. At A. we enlarg’d the Heap of Stones upon the Rock and from thence, as all along, run by Compass and the anciently marked Trees to C., where we begun; which SEWALL’S DIARY 193 prov’d all the Work to be Right: There we made a large heap of Stones upon the Stump of a Tree burnt down. Wednesday, 8' 27, 1708. My wife is taken very sick as she was last April; taken with Shaking and intolerable pain in her Brest. Maj" Gen! visits her and she takes some of his powder; but it cast up so soon, that it works little. Great Rain. Dr. Noyes visits and administers: on Friday grows better, Laus Deo. Monday, Nov? 1. Gov’ best Horse dyes in his Pasture at Roxbury as goe to Dedham. Bouroughs, a worstedcomber, was at Mr. Colman’s Meeting on the L. day p. m., went home- ward towards Roxbury in the night; got beyond the Salt-ponds, and fell down a-cross the Cart path in the Mud, and there perished; was found dead on Monday morn, Nov’ 1. And tho the Coroner did his Office in the Morning; yet the Corps lay as a sad spectacle, gazed on till late in the Afternoon. Gov’ calls and smokes a pipe with my wife at night 9° 1. Jan’ 31, 170%. Mr. Spensar calls here, and I enquire of him about Mr. Gerrish of Wenham, what he should say; He answer’d not directly; but said his Cousin would come if he might have admittance. I told him I heard he went to Mr. Coney’s daughter. He said he knew nothing of that: I de- sired him to enquire, and tell me. I understood he undertook it; but he came no more. Feb? 4 Nurse Smith buried. Coming from the Grave I ask’d Mr. Pemberton whether S. Gerrish courted Mr. Coney’s daughter; he said No; not now. Mr. Coney thought his daughter young. Feb’ 5. Storm of Snow, and I goe not out. Feb’ 6. is a Comfortable day. Feb" 7*® I deliver a Letter to S. Gerrish to inclose and send to his father, which he promises to doe. Febr. 17. I receive Mr. Gerrishes Letter just at night. Febr. 18. I leave Word at Mr. Gerrishes shop that I would speak with him after Mr. Bromfield’s Meeting was over. He 194 SEWALL’S DIARY came and I bid him wellcom to my house as to what his father writt about. So late hardly fit then to see my daughter, apointed him to come on ‘Tuesday, invited him to Super; I observ’d he drunk to Mary in the third place. Febr. 23. When I came from the Meeting at Mr. Stephens’s I found him in the Chamber, Mr. Hirst and wife here. It seems he ask’d to speak with Mary below; her Mother was afraid because the fire was newly made: and Mr. Hirst brought him up. This I knew not of: He ask’d me below, whether it were best to frequent my House before his father came to Town: I said that were the best introduction: but he was wellcom to come before, and bid him come on Friday night. Febr. 24. Mr. Hirst tells me Mr. Gerrish courted Mr. Coney’s daughter: I told him I knew it, and was uneasy. In the evening daughter Hirst came hether, I supose to tell that Mr. Gerrish had courted Mr. Coney’s daughter: and if she should have Mr. Stoddard, she would mend her market. Friday, Febr. 25. Madam Winthrop, Oliver, and Mico visit my wife. In the evening S. Gerrish comes not; we expected him, Mary dress’d her self: it was a painfull disgracefull disapointment. Febr. 26. Satterday, Sam Gerrish goes to Wenham unknown to me, till Lords-day night Capt. Greenleaf told me of it. He was not seen by us till Wednesday March 2, David saw him. March, 14. The Revert Mr. Joseph Gerrish comes to our house in the evening. Dines with us March 15 Tuesday. At night his Son comes, and Mary goes to him. Mr. Gerrish goes home on Wednesday. His son comes and is entertain’d then also. Friday-night. §. Gerrish comes. ‘Tells Mary except Sat- terday and Lord’s-day nights intends to wait on her every night; unless some extraordinary thing hapen. Satterday, March 19. I call at S. Gerishes shop; he was not within: but came in presently: I desired him to Bind me a Psalm-Book in Calv’s Leather. May, 2. Being Artillery day, and Mr. Higginson dead, I SEWALL’S DIARY 195 put on my Mourning Rapier; and put a black Ribband into my little cane. When I enter’d the Council-Chamber, the Gov’ with an Air of displeasure said, You are Chidden! pre- tending my late coming; though I think I was there before eleven, and am, I think, the most constant attender of Councils. I dined with the Artillery at Powells, whether Maxwell came and warn’d me to Council at 3. There I waited all alone, as many times I doe. At length the Gov’ came. When Col. Hathorne had his Quota 76. given him, he expostulated a little; upon which the Gov’ was very angry, and took him up with very smart words. I was on the same side of the beard, and saw his Warrant. Then I went to my own, and seeing a number of Letters ly under the Secretaryes hand, I made a mo- tion to see one which the Secretary declin’d: and the Gov’ tak- ing notice of it with a very angry Air said to me, I will not be Govern’d by You! Midweek, July, 13. 1709. N.B. Last night, between 2 or 3 hours after midnight, my wife complain’d of Smoak; I pres- ently went out of Bed, and saw and felt the Chamber very full of Smoak to my great Consternation. I slipt on my Cloaths except Stockings, and run out of one Room into another above, and below Stairs, and still found all well but my own Bed- chamber. I went into Garret and rouz’d up David, who fetch’d me a Candle. My wife fear’d the Brick side was a-fire, and the children endangered. She fled thither, and call’d all up there. While she was doing this, I felt the partition of my Bed-Chamber Closet warm; which made me with fear to unlock it, and going in I found the Deal-Box of Wafers all afire, burning livelily; yet not blazing. I drew away the papers nearest to it, and call’d for a Bucket of Water. By that time it came, I had much adoe to recover the Closet agen: But I did, and threw my Water on it, and so more, and quench’d it thorowly. Thus with great Indulgence GOD saved our House and Substance, and the Company’s Paper. ‘This night, as I lay down in my Bed, I said to my Wife, that the Good- 196 SEWALL’S DIARY ness of God apeared, in that we had a Chamber, a Bed, and Company. If my Wife had not waked me, we might have been consumed. And it seems admirable, that the opening the Closet-Door did not cause the Fire to burst forth into an Un- quenchable Flame. The Box was 18 inches over, Closet full of loose papers, boxes, Cases, some Powder. ‘The Window- Curtain was of Stubborn Woolen and refus’d to burn though the Iron-Bars were hot with the fire. Had that burnt it would have fired the pine-shelves and files of Papers and Flask and Bandaliers of powder. “The Pine-Floor on which the Box stood, was burnt deep, but being well plaister’d between the Joysts, it was not burnt through. ‘The Closet under it had Hundreds of Reams of the Company’s Paper in it. ‘The plaistered Wall is mark’d by the Fire so as to resemble a Chim- ney back. Although I forbad mine to cry Fire; yet quickly after I had quench’d it; the Chamber was full of Neighbours and Water. ‘The smell of Fire pass’d on me very much; which lasted some days. We imagine a Mouse might take our lighted Candle out of the Candle-stick on the hearth and dragg it under my closet-door behind the Box of Wafers. The good Lord sanctify this Threatening; and his Parental Pity in im- proving our selves for the Discovery of the fire, and Quench- ing it. Ihe Lord teach me what I know not; and wherein I have done amiss help me to doe so no more! Midweek, Augt 24. In the evening Mr. Pemberton marrys Mr. Samuel Gerrish, and my daughter Mary: He begun with Prayer, and Mr. Gerrish the Bridegroom’s father concluded: Mr. Mayhew was present. Augt 25. Mr. Cotton Mather, Mr. Pemberton and wife, and others, dine with us after Lecture. In the even I invited the Gov? and Council to drink a Glass of Wine with me; About 20 came; viz. Gov'’., Winthrop, Hathorne, Elisha Hut- chinson, Addington, Brown, Foster, Sergeant, Walley, Phillips, Townsend, Bromfield, Eliakim Hutchinson, Corwin, Higgin- SE WWiA LI LVS) DiIAUR IY, 197 son, Jn° Apleton, Lynde, Hunt, Cushing, Nordon, Epes. Gave them variety of good Drink, and at going away a large piece of Cake Wrap’d in Paper. ‘They very heartily wish’d me Joy of my daughter’s Marriage. 8' 3. Gov" calls a Council. I acquainted the Gov" with the Condemnation of the two Indian Men at Bristol for Mur- der, and the time intended for their Execution. Col. Vetch mutter’d somthing as if there was no malice prepense: I told him of the man’s kicking his wife into the fire. He said he heard not of that. Capt. Blackmore arrives this day and brings the Wellcom Orders for going on to point the Bible [Indian] and countermanding the selling any more of the Genoa Paper, with a considerable Remittance. Oct’ 5. Midweek, Mr. Hirst and I take a Calash and meet Mr. Gerrish with John behind him. Son Gerrish, his wife and Hannah in a Calash. It was a little beyond New- hill’s, who now keeps the Swan, that we met them. Din’d there, and there Mr. Gerrish would return, delivering up his Charge to me. As came homeward went over Charlestown Hill on the Neck of Land; and came into the Rode again by Mr. Emerson’s. Got home very well, and I went to our Meeting at Mr. Thornton’s. Laus Deo. Nov’ 6%. lLord’s day; Mr. Rowland Cotton preach’d in the forenoon; Mr. Corwin in the Afternoon. Mr. Pemberton had propounded Hanah Butler to renew her Baptismal Cov- enant; and now mention’d it, and said she had sin’d scandul- ously against the 7** Comandment; read her Confession imed- iatly, and by the silential vote restored her. I think it is in- convenient, when persons have so fallen, not to give the Church some previous notice of it; that the Brethren may have Oportunity to enquire into the Repentance. An ignorant Con- sent is no Consent. And I understood Mr. Pemberton that he would not go in that way again. Once before he did it, say- ing he knew not of it when the party was propounded. 198 SEWALL’S DIARY Feb' 6, 1704. the Queen’s Birth-day. The Council Treat the Gov' at the Green Dragon, with Col. Vetch and several others. Mr. Tho. Bridge, Mr. Wadsworth, and Mr. Colman were there. Cost us 5° apiece. After our Return to the Coun- cil-Chamber, Burnt near Six Thousand pounds of decay’d Bills. When the Candles began to be lighted, I grew weary and un- easy, and even slip’d away without drinking. When I came home, it was a singular Refreshment to me to read 2 Cor. 6. especially from the 14** to the end. See Mr. Pemberton’s Ser- mon, March, 5 &c. March, 27. Am much disheartened by the Snow on the ground, and that which was falling, there being a dismal face of Winter. Yet the Sun breaking out, I stood along about 10. m. Every thing look’d so wild with Snow on the Ground and Trees; that was in pain lest I should Wander: But it pleas’d God graciously to direct, so that I got well to D. Jacobs, and then call’d his Tenant Riply to guid us over the Rocky Swamps to Curtis’s. Din’d at Bairstow’s; from thence had the under-Sheriff Briant. At Cook’s the Sheriff met me. Mr. J. Cotton, Otis and others with him. Got to Rickard’s about Sun-set. Laus Deo. April 30. Last night the Rudder of Capt. Rose’s Ship was cut; [he reason was Capt. Belchar’s sending of her away Laden with Wheat in this time when Wheat is so dear. Second-day, May, 1, 1710. Fourty or fifty Men get to- gether and seek some body to head them to hale Capt. Roses Ship ashoar: but they were dissuaded by several sober Men to desist, which they did. This was about 5. m. I heard of it as I was going to Hog-Island to see my Tenant’s Loss of Sheep. Went off about Nine, and return’d between 2 and 3. May, 2. Mr. Pemberton prays; 5 Judges there. First Lieut Sam. Johnson was made Foreman of the Jury. May, 3. He pray’d to be dismiss’d by reason of sickness, which was granted while I was withdrawn into the Council-Chamber, and writing to Mr. C. Mather to dine with us; and Mr. SEWALL’S DIARY 199 Cumby was made Fore-man. At Noon Mr. Attorney ob- jected against Cumby that he should say, Sure they cut the Rudder themselves, that is, Capt. Roses Men. Upon this Mr. Cumby was spoken to by the Court, and he in open Court desired dismission, or at least from being Fore-man. He was dismiss’d; and Mr. William Torrey was put in. Mr. Attor- ney and Capt. Belchar went to the Grand-Jury to forward the Bill against those that made the unlawfull Assembly. Just after Mr. Cumby was dismiss’d, Capt. Belchar made a motion that he might be sworn as a Witness. I look’d upon it as an indignity, he having been hardly enough dismiss’d from the Grand-jury: and nothing led to the calling him forth but his Situation. So I oposed it, and it was not done. I insisted it most convenient to proceed with a few and not seek to inflame the Reckoning by multiplying Articles. And Col. Foster com- plain’d that twas almost like an Inquisition; the manor of Capt. Belchars pursuing it in Council. This Midweek morn, Mr. Pemberton stood in his Gate, and occasion’d my going in with him. He spake very warmly about the Unlawfull Assembly: I said such motions ought to be supress’d; the thing should be thorowly and effectually dealt in. I said twas an ill office in Capt. Belchar to send away so great a quantity of Wheat (about 6000 Bushels besides Bread ) in this scarce time. Mr. Pemberton said I cherish’d those evil seditious Motions by saying so. I said he unjustly charged me. He that withholds Corn, the people will curse him, though I did not affirm that Scripture Justified the Rioters. I men- tion’d something of God’s people, that though they brought themselves into Straits by their own fault; yet God pitied and help’d them. Mr. Pemberton said, with much fierceness, They were not God’s people but the Devil’s people that wanted Corn. There was Corn to be had; if they had not impover- ish’d themselves by Rum, they might buy Corn. I was stricken with this furious Expression. Mr. Pemberton also spake very sharply and upbraidingly, that he was invited to Diner, and 200 SEWALL’S DIARY then not sent for at Dinertime; was sick with waiting; lost his own Diner; knew not where we din’d; ’twas indecent to ly lurking at the ordinary; wanted not a Diner. Augt 11. Sixth-day, I visited Mr. Tho. Brattle, who is very low and languishing; He express’d great respect to me: yet plainly told me, that frequent visits were prejudicial to him, it provok’d him to speak more than his strength would bear, would have me come seldom. He told me his Thigh was no bigger than my Wrist. I said I hop’d as the Wether grew Temperat, he might recruit which he seem’d to assent to. Nov? 10. 1710. Daughter Gerrish is brought to bed of a daughter about 6. m. My wife being with her, I sat up late and lay alone. This day with much adoe twas voted that would Salem Middle precinct put to vote; and in the After- noon twas carried clear in the Affirmative. Mr. Secretary stood firm for this. Though the Salem Gentlemen would not suffer Capt. Gardener and Company to voted in Salem Town Meting; they made no bones of voting against them in the Council. Nov 13. 1710. I visit Daughter Gerrish, and then ride alone to Lewis’s. From thence had Company, and was met by the Sheriff. Nov 14. Finished the Business of the Court, sitting a little by Candle-light. Visited Madam Bradstreet, Bro™ Hirst, Major W™ Brown. Nov’ 15. Came home, fair Wether, and not very Cold. En- guired of Mr. Gerrish as I came along concerning his wife: He said she was something disorder’d; but I aprehended no danger, and being just come off my journey, went not to see her that night. Nov’ 16. Thanksgiving. My wife sent my daughter Ger- rish part of our Diner, which as I understood she eat of pleas- antly. But twas a Cold Day and she was remov’d off her Bed on the Palat Bed in the morning. After the Evening Exercise my wife and I rode up in the Coach: My daughter ask’d me CS BOW Al Le Soe DEAR EY 201 to pray with her, which I did; pray’d that God would give her the Spirit of Adoption to call Him Father. ‘Then I went away with Mr. Hirst to his House, leaving my wife with my daughter Gerrish, till she call’d to go home. After our coming home, the northern Chimney of the New house fell a-fire and blazed out extreamly; which made a great Uproar, as is usual. An hour or two after midnight Mr. Gerrish call’d me up ac- quainting us of the extream illness of his wife; All the family were alarm’d, and gather’d into our Bed-Chamber. When I came there, to my great Surprise my Daughter could not speak to me. They had try’d to call up Mr. Wadsworth; but could not make the family hear. I sent for Mr. Mayhew, who came and pray’d very well with her. (Joseph pray’d at home with the family). [Near] four a clock after Midnight my dear child expired, being but Nineteen years, and twenty days old. When this was over, I advis’d them to take Mrs. Hubbard’s Assistance; left Mr. Mayhew there and went home. When I entred my wife’s Bed-Chamber, a dolefull Cry was lifted up. 7% day, Nov™ 25 Dr. Increase Mather lays before me the first Libel, the Copy being of Sam. Sewall’s writing; and men- tions Mr. Bromfield, for me to consult with what to doe. When at Charlestown Lecture Nov’ 26% I writ a Letter to the president to invite him to Diner the 28. that night goe to the Commissioners Meeting together. Nov? 27. Mr. Bromfield and I grant a Warrant, to bring John Banister before us at 9. m. 9° 28. Nov? 28. I send my Son to invite Mr. Pemberton to dine with me and the President. Nov? 28. John Banister apears, sumond by Constable Kal- lender. I had desired Col. Townsend to be with us, who came. Mr. Tho. Bratle came of himself and pleaded much in favour of the Libellers (for Aaron was brought in too) and against the injured Doctors, which was the Cause I invited him not to Dinner. Fin’d Jn° Banister 20° for each Libel, Aaron Stuckey 20° for publishing the 2°, Bound them to their good Beha- 202 SE WANE Leis) Dalai: viour. Mr. Brattle argued hard to issue it, and not Bind them over to the Sessions: and had Dr. Cotton Mather’s Letter in favour of Banister. But he offer’d no Acknowledgment of his Crime in writing; so we took this middle way. Nov? 28. p. m. When the President and Mr. Pemberton came to Diner, I was in my Apartment, Mr. Mayhew and my Son with me. The President and Mr. Pemberton being come to us; Mr. Pemberton quickly begun to say, What you have been holding a Court to day! Had it over again; I was a little amus’d at the word Court; however, I began to relate what had been done. Mr. Pemberton with extraordinary Ve- hemency said, (capering with his feet) If the Mathers order’d it, I would shoot him thorow. I told him he was in a passion. He said he was not in a Passion. I said, it was so much the worse. He said the Fire from the Altar was equal impartial. Upbraiding me, very plainly, as I understood it, with Parti- ality. The President said, The Governour was barbarously Treated (meaning Dr. Cotton Mather’s Letter to his Excel- lency). I answered; That was put to the Council. Mr. May- hew told me afterward, that I said his Carriage was neither becoming a Scholar nor Minister. The Truth is I was sur- pris'd to see my self insulted with such extraordinary Fierce- ness, by my Pastor, just when I had been vindicating two worthy Embassadors of Christ (his own usual Phrase) from most villanous Libels. And I dont know any syllable intimat- ing that I had done Well. As for the Letter, the Gov" was not in humor to trust me about it; because I just then Fil’d my Reasons for withdrawing my Vote. Mr. Pemberton speaks hard Words, and very reflecting. We went to Dinner, I sat next Mr. Pemberton and ask’d him to crave a Blessing; He also Return’d Thanks, the President declining it. Mr. Ser- geant came into our Company. ‘The President walked on his right hand to the Council-chamber; I and Mr. Pemberton went next. In the Way Mr. Pemberton charg’d me again, I was grievd and said, What in the Street! He answer’d, No SEWALL’S DIARY 203 body hears. But Mr. Sergeant heard so much, that he turn’d back to still us. Mr. Pemberton told me that Capt. Martin, the Comadore, had abus’d him, yet I took no notice of it: I answer’d, you never laid it before me. He said, You knew it. I said, I knew it not. (For every Rumor is not ground suffi- cient for a Justice of Peace to proceed upon; and Mr. Pem- berton never spake word of it to me before). He said Capt. Martin call’d him Rascal in the Street, and said had it not been for his coat, he would have can’d him. Mr. Pemberton said I excluded him, or he was excluded from Dining with the Superiour Court by the Invitation of Capt. Martin. I said twas with difficulty that his Company was obtain’d at our Diner. ‘The matter of Fact was this: Upon Midweek Nov' 8., as I take it, twas nois’d that General Nicholson was going out of Town to Pascataqua, in order to his Voyage home: Hereupon the Justices agreed to wait upon his Honor at his Lodgings; to take Leave of him if going, to invite him to Diner if he staid in Town so long: (The Chief Justice was at New London), Sewall, Hathorne, Walley, Corwin went in the morning to the House of Mr. John Borland; When the Gen! came, and we had Saluted him, and understood his Honor staid in Town that day; We invited him to Diner to the Green Dragon; and Mr. Myles being there, I invited him; and en- quired of the Gen! if there were any we should ask to Dine with him? He mention’d Capt. Martin, the Comadore. Ac- cordingly we sent, and for Major Handy. When Mr. Pem- berton had Pray’d, I desir’d him to Dine with the Court, the Gen! was invited. Mr. Pemberton ask’d whether Capt. Mar- tin was to be there, I said yes; Then said Mr. Pemberton, you must Excuse me! I reply’d, His Invitation was not of my pro- posal. And yet this was now thus brought over again: Mr. Pemberton said the Council took so little notice of Capt. Mar- tin’s Abusing him (though it had been talk’d of in Council) that they invited him to their Treat at the Return from Ann- apolis Royal. This concerns the whole Council, and therefore 204. SEWALL’S DIARY I have nam’d it last, as in which I am least concern’d. But this is to be said for the Council. The Fleet was a chief Mean of Taking Port Royal; Capt. Martin was Comadore of that Fleet, and therefore could not be separated from the Gen!. A personal Resentment of what had pass’d before the going to Port-Royal, ought not to make a Balk in a Publick Invitation after God’s granting Success; which had been so much and Publickly pray’d for; and Thanks to God Return’d. And if the Justices had [not?] sent for Capt. Martin, I cant tell what could have been made of the Offence. ‘Tis difficult medling with Captains of Frigats. Reasons of State require the over- looking many grievous Things. ‘The Sons of Zerviah were too hard for David, his calling them to Account. He was fain to leave Joab to the Reign of Solomon. These Things made me pray Earnestly and with great Con- cern, that God would vouchsafe to be my Shepherd, and per- form for me what is mention’d in the 23. Psalm, that He would not leave me behind in my Straglings; but bring me safely to his Heavenly Fold. In the Afternoon Mr. Pemberton order’d the 5 first verses of the 58" Psalm to be sung. I think if I had beer in his place and had been kindly and tenderly affectioned, I should not have done it at this time. Another Psalm might have suited his Sub- ject as well as the 5 verse of this. ‘Tis certain, one may make Libels of David’s Psalms; and if a person be abused, there is no Remedy: I desire to leave it to God who can and will Judge Righteously. Dect 12. I went to Mr. Pemberton and Expostulated about his ‘Treatment of me. Nov? 28. Ask’d him whether the Mathers were not Embas- sadors of Christ and therefore ought to be vindicated; I might have expected his Escape. As to Capt. Martin, the Comadore, when I had related the matter of Fact, he said he knew it not before. I visited Madam Pemberton, and gave the Nurse 3°. SEWALL’S DIARY 205 Mid-week, Jan” 31, 1779. Went and heard Mr. Bridge, and Dr. Cotton Mather pray and preach, at the said Dr’s House. Mr. Bridge’s Text was about God’s lifting up a Standard, when Enemy breaks in as a Flood. Dr. Mathers, The whole world lyes in Wickedness. Had Cake and Butter and Cheese, with good Drinks, before parting. As I went home, I heard Col. Vetch was arriv’d from Anapolis. Feb’ 1. As I go to Lecture, I wait on Gov" Vetch and con- gratulat his Safety; He thanks me for my Respect to him and to his Spouse. At 3. p.m. The Council meets according to Adjournment. Upon Conference with Col. Vetch, the Expedition is set for- ward by Water. Mr. Secretary reads a paper given him by Col. Vetch, Certifying that the Government of Anapolis Royal had not Traded with the Indians as they were aspers’d, but with all in a vile maner loading New-Engld with Calum- nies; a spirit of Witchcraft, and now 7 fold a Spirit of Lying, haters of Monarchy, regretting Her Majesties success in Tak- ing Port-Royal. I took it of the Secretary, and read it, and mov’d several of the Council that they would speak to it. I told them it would otherwise be taken as a tacit License to print it. When no body spake, and Col. Vetch was going away, I pray’d him to stay a little; and said I fear’d the reading that paper without being spoken to, would be taken as a tacit Li- censing of it. I was for the Certificat so far as it vindicated their innocency; but was against the Reflections on New-Eng- land, they would be dishonorable to Nova Scotia, and New- England. I was against printing it with them. Col. Vetch said, if it could not be printed here, he would have it printed elsewhere; Copies of it were sent to England, I said it was Raillery unbecoming a Government. When Col. Vetch was gon, I pray’d the Gov’ to forbid the printing it unless those Reflections were first taken out. ‘The Gov" said, he could not hinder it; they might take their own way. And yet own’d twas Raillery. I don’t know but Col. Vetch may reckon that he has 206 SiRVW ACL LAS) Dia Ray a tacit License to print the Certificat just now read in Coun- cil. I am very free the Substance of the Certificat, relating to their own inocency, may be printed: But to print the bulky Reflections would be dishonorable to Anapolis, and Boston. And I can no way consent to it. I think it should be spoken to. Febr. 9. Seventh-day, between 11 and 12m. Col. John Fos- ter expires. His place at the Council Board and Court will hardly be filled up. I have lost a good Left-hand man. The Lord save New-England! Now just half the Counsellours mention’d in the Charter, are dead; The good Lord prepare the rest, and me especially to follow after. Now about I dream’d of being at the Comencment and see- ing Mr. Leverett in Scarlet. Febr. 28. 177. Midweek: ‘This being my Marriage-day, and having now liv’d in a married Estate Five and ‘Thirty years, notwithstanding my many Sins and Temptations, I spent some time in Meditation and Prayer in the Castle-Cham- ber. I was much encouraged by reading in Course the 32! Psalm at family prayer without any foresight of mine. And when I came to pray I was much heartened to ask Forgiveness of God for my multiplied Transgressions, seeing He had di- rected Peter a sinfull Mortal to forgive to 70. times 7. I hope God will forgive and do as the matter may require. March, 4. Lord’s Day; To my aprehension God assists my Son remarkably in prayer and preaching I hope tis an Answer of my prayer last Midweek. Preaches again in the Evening. April, 3. I dine with the Court at Pullin’s. Mr. Attor- ney treats us at his house with excellent Pipins, Anchovas, Olives, Nuts. I said I should be able to make no Judgment on the Pipins without a Review, which made the Company Laugh. Spake much of Negroes; I mention’d the problem, whether should be white after the Resurrection: Mr. Bolt took it up as absurd, because the body should be void of all Colour, SEWALL’S DIARY 207 spake as if it should be a Spirit. I objected what Christ said to his Disciples after the Resurrection. He said twas not so after his Ascension. 7 18% ‘Third-day, set out for Boston; Baited at Dedham. Refresh’d our selv’s at Mr. Belcher’s: Got well home a little after Diner time: we recreated our selves with Mr. Watt’s Poems, going and coming. Laus Deo Servatori. About 7 or 8 aclock of the night between the 24 and 34 of October, a Dreadful Fire hapens in Boston; broke out in a little House belonging to Capt. Ephraim Savage, by reason of the Drunken- ness of Moss: Old Meeting House, and Town-House burnt. Old Meetinghouse had stood near 70. years. I had a house burnt, wherein Mr. Seth Dwight was Tenant, who paid me I'wenty pounds per afium. Oct. 3. The Lt. Gov’ Taylor arrives. He saw the Fire 20 Leagues off. Octob? 11. Fifth-day, Fast. A Collection was made for sufferers by the Fire; Two Hundred Sixty odd pounds gathered at the South church, the oldest Meetinghouse in Town. Friday, Febr. 8. A Duel is fought between Lt James Doug- las, and Lt James Alexander, near the new Burying place. Satterday, Febr. 16, 17114. Mr. Jonathan Belchar comes to me with Mr. Bromfield, and tells me the near approach of Lt James Alexander’s Death; I think this was after Noon. I went to the chief Justice who declar’d his opinion, that twas fitter for other Justices to meddle with than the Judges. I went to Dr. Clark as the next Justice and a Chirurgeon, whom I found indispos’d and keeping house. L* Alexander Douglass, the Dueller, lodg’d at Barnsdell’s near Scarlet’s Wharf. I call’d again at Mr. Bromfield’s who inform’d me, Alexander, aprehensive of death, was just going to receive the Sacrament. I went home, (twas now Sun-set) and writ a Letter to Mr. Attorney, telling where I had been and what I had heard; and desir’d him to take some order about it. About 7 aclock he 208 OE WAT Le Se IDE AIREY. sent for me, I went to the chief Justice, and there sign’d War- rants to the sheriff &c., and Mr. Weaver, an Admiralty War- rant; Franklin made Constable Oliver his Deputy. Sent Mr. Deputy Dyer and him to Barnsdell’s; and order’d him to go to Nantasket as soon as the Wether would admit (for the wind now was intolerable as to its height and cold). Came home, Benj. Larnell lighting me. Monday, Febr. 18. ”’I‘was mention’d in Council, that Gov™ Vetch might be spoken to to send Douglass from Anapolis hither. It was reported he was gon thither in Capt. John Al- den. Lt James Alexander dyed, on Satterday night about 10. aclock. The Gov'’s Answer was, Let Warrants be first granted out; and then 2 or 3 days after, Let a Motion be made to Gov? Vetch from the Council-Board. A Warrant was drawn by Mr. Secretary to all the sheriffs and Constables in the Province, and given to Dept. Dyer. Mr. Joseph Gerrish comes to Town; I write to him to invite him to Diner to mor- row. A Letter is written to the Gov’ to regulat the Funeral of Lt Alexander, and prevent its being Great. Sixth-day, March 28. Court met: order’d Oyster-Island not to be sold; but the Attorney, Mr. Parker, to represent the state of it at the next Term. Upon reading Hittee’s Inden- ture (which was now brought), Left her in Prison uncon- demned; and order’d Col. Otis her first master, and Major Basset, to take Affidavits concerning her Birth. Adjourn’d sine die. Left my Statute Book with Capt. James Warren. Came homeward; Rain’d hard quickly after setting out, went by Mattakeese Meetinghouse, and forded over the North- River. My Horse stumbled, in the considerable body of water, but I made a shift, by GOD’S Help, to sit him, and he re- cover'd and carried me out. Rain’d very hard that went into a Barn awhile. Baited at Bairsto’s. Din’d at Cushing’s. Dryed my Coat and Hat at both places. By that time got to Braintry, the day and I were in a maner spent, and I turn’d in to Cousin Quinsey, where I had the pleasure to see GOD in SEWAL ES DIARY 209 his providence shining again upon the persons and Affairs of the Family after long distressing Sickness and Losses. Lodg’d in the chamber next the Brooke. 7 day March, 29. Rode home, Mr. Rawson overtook me and accompanied me on the Neck; Got well home about Noon; found all well. Laus Deo. Mr. Colman, the father, died last Thorsday night. Midweek, April 9°. Capt. Paxton reviles Mr. Jonathan Bel- char upon the Parade, calls him Rascal, many times, strikes him with his Cane: Mr. Dudley upon his view fines him 58. He carried it insolently, and said, He would doe so again. Twas about Noon. Sixth-day, April, 11. I saw Six Swallows together flying and chipering very rapturously. Augt. 24. Son sends Tom with a Letter to acquaint me that his daughter Mary died about | or 2 aclock last night; his wife sick. p. m. I send the Letter to Mr. Pemberton. Both Mr. Bridge and Pemberton pray very Expressly for my Son as call’d to the south-church. I goe to the Funeral of Capt. Oli- ver’s child. Bearers, Mr. Jn° Walley, Mr. David Jeffries. Mr. Pemberton deliver’d me my Son’s Letter at the house of Mourning. Second-day, Augt. 25. Between Roxbury, and Brooklin I met a youth of Newtown, who told me Mr. Hobart dyed about Sun-rise this morning. Proceeded and waited on Madam Dud- ley in her Charret to Brooklin. So soon as I could get the Coffin, I had little Mary nail’d up in it, and brought my dear Grand-Child to Town in my son’s Calash, leaving my Horse for him. The Rain overtook me near the Governour’s, yet I proceeded, and got to my House, just about T'wo a-clock. About sun-set, or a little after, little Mary Sewall, born July, 20, 1711, was born to the Tomb by Mr. William Cooper, and Mr. Appleton, Mr. Dan! Oliver’s Aprentice. The Father fol- low’d alone, then the Gov" and I. The Grandmothers rode in the Governour’s Charret. 210 SEWALL’S DIARY Midweek, Augt. 27. I went to Hog-Island with Latherby to see how the Workmen finished the Barn. Saw two Sloops go away with Hay; Turn’d down with them against the Wind. Visited Dr. Increase Mather. He is touch’d with the Gravel. Benj. Larnell kick’d Joshua Gee. Octob? 31. Order for Thanksgiving is past. The Secre- tary writ Peace; the Gov’ added Happy; which I objected against; because we saw but one side, we saw not what the French had reserved for themselves. Voted it not. I would have had it plentiful /ater Harvest; because the Wheat and Rye were much blasted; the Barly much diminished; but I prevail’d not. Sister Northend returns. Tuesday, Febr. 10 17124. A vehement storm of Snow. Mr. Stoddard sent his Coach to fetch me to the Commissioners Meeting at his House. When return’d could scarce get in at my door for a great Drift of Snow blown up there; were fain to Shovel it away first. Wednesday, Febr. 11. Mr. Aaron Porter is ordain’d pastor of the church at Meadford. Mr. Angier gave the charge; Mr. Hancock, the Right Hand of Fellowship. The storm fore- going hinder’d my Son from being there. And Mr. Jonathan Belchar made a Splendid Treat for Mr. Wainwright, to which my Son was invited on Tuesday; were many more people there than the Meetinghouse would hold. Febr. 12. Sam. comes not to Town as he intended. In the Afternoon Devotion informs my wife of his very uncomfortable Circumstances, and of the Necessity of fetching him to Bos- ton. Friday, Febr. 13. Joseph and I ride in Mr. Stoddard’s Coach to Brooklin, got thither at Eleven a. m., find Sam abed. In a little while got him up, din’d there, came away. I was somwhat afraid, by reason his [Joseph’s] Pulse was disorder’d. But the Coach being close, Harry drove us home well about 4. p.m. At Brooklin I saw the Lambs, encourag’d ‘Tom. to be faithfull in his Masters business, which he promis’d. ‘Told SE WAL EY Siy DIBA RY: 211 him he could not obey his Master without obedience to his Mistress; and vice versa; bid him take that as a Rule. Gave him a Two-shilling Bill of Credit. When my daughter alone, I ask’d her what might be the cause of my Son’s Indisposition, are you so kindly affectioned one towards another as you should be? She answer’d, I do my Duty. I said no more. At part- ing I pray’d God to be with us going, and with them staying. Son gave Hanah a piece of Silver. Febr. 17. Great Snow. ‘Tom comes for Meal. I give him half a Bushel of pease home with him, of our best. All well at Brooklin. I enquired of my daughter, Hanah, and the whole family. Febr. 19. Lecture-day, son S. goes to Meeting, speaks to Mr. Walter. I also speak to him to dine. He could not; but said he would call before he went home. When he came he discours’d largly with my Son; I also spake to him: His ad- vice was, that Ilsly should be put away; some Friends talk to them both and so come together again. My Son was very help- full to me in copying out Dr. Mather’s Circular Letter. Febr. 21. Satterday, Daughter Sewall calls and gives us a visit; I went out to carry my Letters to Savil’s, that were to be carried by Mr. Crocker to Barnstable. While I was absent, My Wife and Daughter Sewall had very sharp discourse; She wholly justified her self, and said, if it were not for her, no Maid could be able to dwell at their house. At last Daugh- ter Sewall burst out with Tears, and call’d for the Calashe. My wife relented also, and said she did not design to grieve her; Son carried his daughter to the Calash, and desired her to send Tom with the Horse for him on Friday. Febr. 27. Friday, A Council is held at the Governour’s, who is now below Stairs. Saw my Son, but spake not to him. When the business of the Council was over, and pipes were call’d for, I slipt into Kitchen; but my Son was gon; sat with Madam Dudley alone a pretty while; She said nothing to me; I gave her my Silk-Hand-kerchief, which I bought last Sat- 212 SEWALL’S DIARY terday for my daughter, but was prevented giving it to her, she being just gon before I got home. Yet this occasion brought her not to speak; Ask’d kindly after my wife. Went to the Gov’ agen, Took leave, came home as went, with Capt. Bel- char, Bromfield, Norden. March 2. Note. James Peniman was buried last Lord’s- day night; Bearers, Mr. Cutler, Creese; Benet, Brisco; Ellis, Steward. Mr. Bridge and Wadsworth were there, being I supose invited, and to comfort the Relations. He had been such a Drunkard and Idler that I went not to the Funeral, having no heart to it. My son preaches at Mr. Bridgham’s Meeting Lord’s day night. Friday, Apr. 24. Mr. Pemberton calls at my house; Hanah went to the door, and suposing me at the Townmeeting said I was not within; whereas indeed I was, but in the Chamber. Mr. Pemberton said his business was with me, and declin’d coming in. When I understood it, I went to Mr. Pember- ton’s the same morning. He not within, I sat some time with Madam Pemberton: Ask’d her what people thought of my Son’s Courtship; She spake well of it; Said Mr. Alford had done ungentlemanly by her, and she thought at the time of it, she would have a better Husband; comended Mrs. Betty. I told her I would call again about 3. p. m. I went again, she crav’d my pardon, said she had forgot to tell Mr. Pemberton what I had said of calling. He was gon out. April, 25. Satterday, About 4 p. m. as soon as I could get my book finish’d, I went to Mr. Walley’s. Neither of the Sis- ters within. At last Mrs. Lydia came in, and sat with me. I gave her Mr. Walter of CHRIST, very well bound in Calvs Leather, to give Mrs. Betty. I had written her Name in it. When had staid about half an hour or little more, I came away. April, 27. The first Court was open’d in the New Town- house. I was present. Mr. Colman pray’d Excellently. It was a damp to me that the first thing was done was the call- SEWALL’S DIARY 213 ing out the monstrously profane John Green. p. m. Waited on the Court at the Green Dragon, with Capt. Tim®. Clark, to inform against Richard Vince, who is more like a wild-Cat than a man. From thence went to Dr. Increase Mather. Thank’d him for the Perseverance of his Love to my Son Joseph: agreed to call a Meeting of the Commissioners at the Town House at 4. p. m. next Thorsday. Tuesday, April 28. I waited on Mr. Pemberton. Mr. Wisewall was there. Mr. Marsh of Braintry came in. Mr. Pemberton spake very fiercely against the Gov’ and Council’s meddling with suspension of Laws, respecting Church of Eng- Iand men not paying Taxes to the dissenting Ministers. Spake very fiercely in dislike of the overseers, that nothing had been done; would chuse others. I think this was before Mr. Marsh came in. At the Gate said what I did twould be reckon’d my Son did; intimating as I conceive, twere best for me to lay down my Overseers place. Post m went to Roxbury Lecture with Mr. Thair and Josiah Oakes. Mr. Walter preach’d excellently from Ps. 41. 4. I saw Samuel; It is yet dark wether at Brooklin. Came home with Thair and Oakes. Thair went off at his Brother’s; Oakes and I visited the Bride Adams, they were married last Tuesday morn before Gov’ Saltonstall went out of Town. May, 27. Din’d at the Green Dragon. Went late to the Election. 102 Voters at first: Mr. Addington had all but his own, 101. Col. Hutchinson and I had 97. each. But tis to be lamented that Maj? Winthrop had but 46. and was left out. He was the great Stay and Ornament of the Council, a very pious, prudent, Couragious New-England Man. Some spread it among the Deputies, that he was out of the province, and not like to Return. (Has been absent ever since April, 1712. but through Sickness.) Lieut Gov" said he was a Non-Resident. Staid the Election; but voted not, said ’twas against his prin- ciples; the Councillors ought not to vote. Said of voting by 214 SEWALL’S DIARY papers, It was a Silly way! I took no notice of it. Thus Mr. Winthrop is sent into Shade and Retirem’t while I am left in the Whirling Dust, and Scorching Sun. So falls that stately Cedar! whilest it stood It was the truest Glory of the Wood. Satterday, June 6. The Rain-water grievously runs into my ton Joseph’s Chamber from the Window above. As went out to the Barber’s I observ’d the water to run trickling down a great pace from the Coving. I went on the Roof, and found the Spout next Salter’s stop’d, but could not free it with my Stick. Boston went up, and found his pole too big, which I warn’d him of before; came down a Spit, and clear’d the Leaden-throat, by thrusting out a Trap-Ball that stuck there. Thus a small matter greatly incomodes us; and when God pleases, tis easily remov’d. The Rain that fell the two Nights and Lords-day following was in such Abundance, we had been almost Drown’d, if the Spout had not been cleared. June, 7. Lord’s Super, I could not discern that Mr. Pem- berton pray’d for my son; observ’d not so much as the ordinary prayer for him that is to preach in the Afternoon. “The Lord Help! Tuesday, 77 22. I go to Roxbury, wait on the Gov' with the Letter of Mr. Justice Corwin, and Lynde. Gov" tells me a sad story of Sam, as if he were disguis’d with Drink in the Salt-Marsh; His wife comes in with little Hanah: I sit a little while, and go away to Brooklin, find Sam very hard at Work mowing up Stalks. 7°, 23. Sam. comes to our house, goes home late after the Rain that Tom might come to the Execution as tis promised him. Octob". 1. Fifth-day, Dr. C. Mather preaches Mrs. Rock’s Funeral Sermon, from PS. 25. 13. His Soul shall dwell at ease, Sam was here, I invited him to come to us on the Lords SEWALL’S DIARY 215 Day; The Lords Super being administred at both churches in Roxbury, and he under disadvantages to partake. Octob’. 4. Mr. Jn° Barnard preaches a Sermon too much savoring of Arminianisme. p. m. Son preaches from ps. 37. 37. on occasion of Mrs. Rock’s death. Samuel Eliot, son of An- drew Eliot, Baptis’d. Sam. here all day. Sup’d here. went home about 7. Second-day, 8". 5. I goe to Brooklin, meet my daughter Sewall going to Roxbury with Hanah, to dine with her Brot Winthrop. Sam. and I dined alone. Daughter return’d be- fore I came away. I propounded to her that Mr. Walter might be desired to come to them and pray with them. She seem’d not to like the motion, said she knew not wherefore she should be call’d before a Minister! I urg’d him as the fittest moderator; the Gov" or I might be thought partial. She pleaded her performance of Duty, and how much she had born. Mr. Hirst came in and smok’d a pipe and we came away together. I gave Sarah a Shilling. Hanah ditto and cake, the sick Indian Boy a cake, Tom. a Shilling. Got home a little before 7.; visited Mr. Sergeant confin’d to his house: was not abroad on the Lords Day. 8’. 6. Sam. comes to Town on account of his Sick Boy. Octob’. 16. 1713. I went to see the portentous Birth; it seems to be two fine Girls to whom an unhapy Union has been fatal. The Heads and Necks, as low as a Line drawn from the Arm-pits, are distinct. A little below the Navel, downward again distinct, with distinct Arms and Legs; Four of each. I measured across the perfect Union about the Hips and found it to hold about eight Inches. Oh the Mercies of my Birth, and of the Birth of Mine! Laus Deo! Dr. Cot- ton Mather introduc’d me and Mr. John Winthrop to this rare and awfull Sight. Octob™. 19. Mr. Winslow of Marshfield comes to Town; Set out so long before Sun-rise that he was here about 3. p. m. and in the Council-Chamber, in his own Hair, 216 SEWALL US) DEARIX Octob". 20. He appears with a Flaxen Wigg, I was griev’d to see it, he had so comly a head of black Hair. Octob’. 25. In the Night after 12. Susan comes, and knocks at our chamber door, said she could not sleep, was afraid she should dye. Which amaz’d my wife and me. We let her in, blew up the Fire, wrapt her warm, and went to bed again. She sat there till near day, and then return’d; and was well in the morning. Laus Deo. I was the more startled because I had spilt a whole Vinyard Can of water just before we went to Bed: and made that Reflection that our Lives would shortly be spilt. Friday 8’. 30. Sam. and his Wife dine here, go home to- gether in the Calash. William IIsly rode and pass’d by them. My son warn’d him not to lodge at his house; Daughter, said she had as much to doe with the house as he. IIsly lodg’d there. Sam. grew so ill on Saturday, that instead of going to Roxbury he was fain between Meetings to take his Horse, and come hither; to the surprise of his Mother, who was at home. Lord save him and us! Mr. Jn° Williams preached for my son in the morn, and went at Noon to preach for Mr. Walter. About 9. on Satterday night, Mr. Bridge was taken with an- other paralytick Fit, was in danger of falling into the fire. Nov’. 2. Sam. is somthing better, yet full of pain; He told me with Tears that these sorrows (arising from discord be- twen him and his wife) would bring him to his Grave. I said he must endeavour to be able to say, O Death, where is thy sting? O Grave, where is thy victory? He is refresh’d by discoursing with Simon Gates of Marlborough, and Amos Gates. Tuesday, 9". 24. Joseph visits us after his sickness of the Measles; dines with us. David brings Susan’s Mother from Braintrey to tend her. 26. Dr. Mather preaches. I could not discern that he re- turn’d any Thanks for Joseph’s Recovery, though he knew he was at Lecture. Return’d Thanks Expressly for Mr. Bridge. SEW AD LY Si DIARY 217 Mr. Thacher of Milton, Son of Brooklin, and Cousin Quinsey din’d with us. 28. Sam. comes to Town from Brooklin, dines with us, comes to keep the Sabbath with us. I visit Mr. Pemberton. Very cold day. John Gerrish has the Measles at Mr. Low- der’s. Dec’. 6. Sam. keeps Sabbath with us. Dec’. 6. 1713. Sun is Eclipsed just about the beginning of the Fore noon Exercise; when well enter’d many Guns are Fired by Capt. Brown Going down to Nantasket. Mr. Holy- oke observes the Eclipse in the Town House Turret. Very clear day. I saw it plain as I came home at Noon. ‘Tuesday, Jan. 5, 17134. I go to the Funeral of Capt. Benet’s daughter Butler; is said to be the most desirable of his daughters, but about 25 or 6. years old. Cousin Moodey strikes in, and I go in the middle between him and Joseph S. Mr. Sam! Moodey of York lodges here. Jan’ 6. I visit Cousin Mrs. Anna Dumer. In the evening, Mr. Walter, Cousin Moodey and I had discourse about my son at Brooklin, his Circumstances. Yesterday after Mrs. Butler’s Funeral, I visited Mr. Pemberton, who has Sore Eyes. Fifth-day, Jan’ 7th, Son J. Sewall preaches the Lecture, which is the first Sermon he has preached in the old church. 1 Cor. 6, 19. 20. Was invited, and din’d with the Court at Holm’s. Was a very great Fogg all day. Rain’d toward night. Jan’ 29. Great Storm of Snow began about 3. p. m. yes- terday: Last night, about Midnight, was a dreadfull Cry of Fire; was stop’d at Mr. Blunt’s Work-house where it begun. Laus Deo. ‘This day I sent Joseph my Pole’s Synopsis Criti- corum. I have enjoy’d them one and Thirty years; and now have the pleasure to bestow them on a worthy Minister, my Son. O the patience, Longe Suffering, and Goodness of GOD! Seventh-Day, Feb’™. 6. I went to the Town-house on the 218 SEWALL’S DIARY occasion of the Queen’s Birthday; Mr. Bromfield and I sat a-while in one of the windows, Table being full; afterward sat in.