Thursday 1 January 1891

A slight thaw commenced today after 23 days consecutive frost, sometimes very severe, during one night as low as 22 degrees of frost. There is skating everywhere, and on almost all the canals.

The Doctor says I shall have the splints on for ten days or more yet.

Finished reading Sergeant Ballantines’s reminiscences 2 Vols, they are very interesting. My certificate has been stamped and the name will be in the Law list for this year. I am thankful.

Bernard has been learning the flute during the past year and is getting on nicely.

Monday 5 January 1891

Out from 11.30 to 12.45 in the Town with Harry for the first time since 28 November. My arm is going on well but slowly. Dr Francis says the splints must be kept on yet awhile. Met several friends all very sympathetic.

Last Friday night was very severe and early on Saturday the thermometer was at 22 degrees but soon after it rose to 36 degrees and the thaw continued at about 34 -37 degrees until last night or early this morning when it again froze and 9am today it was 28 degrees. This afternoon there is more snow falling with the thermometer about 30 degrees North east wind rising and appearance of more snow.

Last Thursday evening we had Jim Dolman and Mr Pratt to supper and were very lively. The change was very pleasant. I begin to want to paint very much but cannot yet manage it.

The frost continued uninterruptedly for 25 days, but the snow rather spoiled the ice. The thaw in the 1^st instant only lasted a few hours. The roads are now very slippery again.

Wednesday 7 January 1891

Yesterday was bilious and poorly with bad headache. Not up until 5pm.

Finished reading “Robert Elsemere” (Mrs Ward) a useless and badly carried out idea.

Frost very sharp again - 23 degrees at 9am.

Lilie bad cold and poorly.

Bernard at home with bad cold.

Saturday 10 January 1891

Dr Francis’ assistant rebound the splints on my arm this morning. When they were all removed the broken part supported itself - the bone is hardening nicely. He says I must have the splints a week yet. The muscles are stiff

Gallinger called yesterday, the first time since I was laid up.

The frost still continues.

Wrote Mother last Wednesday.

Monday 12 January 1891

This morning at 8 the thermometer was 28 degrees at 12 it was 38 degrees and at 5pm it was 36 degrees. The wind at 8 went to S.W. very light. It has since gone to N.W. and the sunset tonight was red and nearly clear. Went out at 12 to 1 with Rosa and again 3 to 5pm.

Wednesday 14 January 1891

10.30am Just finished dressing with the help of Lil. I was out yesterday morning with Laura to maiden’s Gallinger’s at 11.30 to 1.

Thermometer up to 40 nearly all day. Frost in early morning. Frost again this morning so far wind light N.

Friday 23 January 1891

On the 23^rd and 24^th November 1890 we had heavy wind and rain storms and on the 25^th the highest flood on the Derwent since 1875. Harry and I went to see the river. During the night of 26^th to 27^th November snow fell and on the 27^th at 8am the thermometer was 26 degrees. On 28^th November 1890 more snow then at 7pm I fell in Becket St and broke my arm. Out again 1^st time on 5^th inst. Yesterday to County Court 1^st time for 2 years.

18 January I got up (Sunday) at 7am and made the kitchen fire, tea etc with one arm. At 7pm the thermometer at 17 degrees.

19 January Thermometer 12 degrees at 8am. Canaries and Doves all right.

Called at the office on 15^th January at 5pm first time since November.

Weighed at station on 12 January: 13 stones.

Tuesday 27 January 1891

The thaw has now been general since last Wednesday. I have put the Standard’s account of the whole Frost in my common place book. It lasted just 60 days from 25 November 1890. The frost has burst the pipes to the two W.C.’s one inside and one outside of the house but what will not 20 degrees of frost do?

Saturday 31 January 1891

On Thursday last, Harry and I were at the office all morning arranging the furniture and papers and from 4pm in the afternoon. He is going to help me for a time.

Yesterday we were down morning and afternoon, and all this morning. The weather has continued showery. Temperature about 40 to 44 degrees.

Bradlaugh died yesterday.

Monday 2 February 1891

Commenced full days at the office with Harry to help.

Started Harry and Rosa at Mr Goudie’s French evening class.

Sunday 18 October 1891

Entries in small books since February last.

Annie has been to Alford since Thursday 1 October on a visit to Eardley and Will. She is benefitting by the change. Before she went she had a queer numbness in the side of her face and forehead - left side- but it is leaving her. She is now at Louth and to return on Wednesday. I have written her tonight 13 page letter. Mother has been poorly- a fainting fit- but is better, it is very dangerous at 81.

31 December 1891

Had a quiet but happy Xmas. E Soulby sent us a turkey, WN Mason a goose, and Mother beef etc.

We kept Xmas Eve on the Wednesday night (Xmas Day Friday) to invite Pratt who was going home on Thursday. He is ‘after’ R.M.C. (Rosa Marion Cooke -ed).

On 17^th December began a frost of rime and fog, and it lasted until Xmas Day afternoon when it began to thaw. We had 12-14 degrees of frost nearly every night. I had skating on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons with Rosa Harry and Laura on the Chemical Pond: beautiful ice. I was very nervous at first after my accident last year.

Ernest went to Philadelphia last July and is doing well but takes rather a long time acclimatising.

Bernard is at Alford for a week at W.N.Mason’s. He is doing well at the Midland Railway.

Friday 1 April 1892

Yesterday I moved into 8 Full Street for offices - very cheap and 3 nice rooms for offices besides kitchen scullery and 3 attics nearly done up. £14 per month.

On 22 January last I had a kind of fit for 3/4 of an hour. After being warm in the Dining Room from 4 to 6pm I went into the back garden before tea and fell down in a second. Dr Francis said it was from great general derangement. I was 14 or 15 days laid up, and over a month before getting up regularly and have been away from the office until last week.

The old offices in Amen Alley are finished now but he wants too much rent.

Mr Pratt (W.E.) who is looking after our Rosa brought his mother to tea and supper last night. She is a nice quiet party.

The Corporation Art Gallery is now open free on Wednesdays and Saturdays. It is a very good collection this year.

Monday 18 April 1892 Easter Monday

9.30am Annie Harry Lil Lau and self started by train for Duffield en route for Depth O Lum (likely to be Depth O’ Lumb -ed). For years since I settled in Derby I have heard of this place from odd individuals who had been there, but no one ever described it, and generally spoke of it with slight or as a mystery. Many times I had decided to visit it, but something always altered my plans. Today we have accomplished it !!

Last night was a sharp, calm frost (as we have had for some time past with cold N and NE winds). This morning bright sun calm air. With two well-stocked bags of lunch we set off in first class spirits (although I have a bad cold). The train to Duffield was rather crowded, Harry had to go to a different carriage, and we were put into 1^st class, with 3^rd class tickets.

Rosa is at Mrs Pratts at Stoke on a visit. Bernard going boating with Jim Dolman.

Arrived at Duffield. I knew we must make a start by way of Hazlewood, and so we did. Many good houses have been built along this road of late years. After going along about a mile we saw a young man with his forearm in a sling leaning on a gate, so I asked him if he could direct us to Depth O Lum (nothing like repeating such a rummy name). He says, says he, “I’ve only been here a month and been there once, but I think it is the first turn on the right and then past some houses and through a gate to the left.” and so all subsequent directions followed. We went on and at last about 2 miles came to where the Wirksworth road goes off at a slight angle and another road bends down into a narrow valley to the right, where there is a good Farm House on each side. There were good white guide posts at the division with legible names on them!!

On the left side of the road in the Farm Close was a splendid cock turkey in full feather strutting before two hens, much to the admiration of all of us, and no doubt to them too. After watching him, and trying to “gobble”, on we went past some quarries, a good house on the left, and so to some cottages. Here we all spied ‘the gate’ with a path from it by a wall, but on the field no sign of anything but level ground and a gruttemans gardens. However we followed the path to a stone style ladder and on mounting to the top of the wall, there was the valley below! Deep -say 50 to 200 feet, a brook at the bottom, trees along its margin, steep sides, grass, gorse and heather and steep (about 45 degrees or over). When the trees are in leaf I should say it is very pretty. Some witch has walled in the head of the ravine and planted a few gew gaw house and ‘cemetery’ shrubs!! So the actual head cannot be investigated. The length is about half a mile until the brook crosses a little lane, and so into a level meadow or two.

And now it has been seen and explored! It is a water worn ravine between sandstone rocks, grass-covered, running north-south, the head south, the embouchure north. On returning to the road we found that a little further on than the gate is a road to Belper just across and more than 3/4 of a mile, so Belper is the nearest station to start from.

We walked slowly, ‘investigatingly’, back to Duffield snow beginning to fall about half a mile from the end of the journey and continuing very heavily until after we arrived at home at 6.30, until about 7.30 to 8pm. All tired after a very successful Easter Monday and to bed early.

Tuesday 19 April 1892

To office in morning.

In afternoon Harry Lil Lau and self with young Heath to Weston Cliff - by train to Chellaston. Some men (6) killing a pig took 20 minutes to get it bled to death squealing and grunting all the time. A lovely day.

Saturday 23 April 1892

Lil Lau Harry and self at 10am started by train 10.20 to Chellaston, walked on to Weston. The shallow sunny sides of the canal full of toads. Ferried over the Trent, on to Kings Newton Hall ruins, first time I have been in the grounds. It is a shame they are not built up again. Into Melbourne, lunch by the Pool. I made pencil sketches.

On to castle Donington, by Wilson, and through the Park. The Keeper let us in. Saw a herd of about 200 fallow deer, and several red stags and does. Very fine animals. Went by the old oaks and looked over the Trent. Back by train 7.13pm. Lovely day.

May Fred Mason came to us.

15 October 1892 Highest flood on Derwent since October 1875.

Sunday 7pm 18 December 1892

Had very slack summer and autumn. Wet cold weather generally in summer- only about 10 days fairly hot.

First snow third week in November lasted 7 or 8 days children had Saturday afternoon skating (last Saturday 10^th inst) then rain.

Eardly Mason failed last May and went bad in the head, he gets no better. (Note in margin - rather worse 3 Jan 93).

Annie has lost £350 of Fanny’s estate by bad investments.

Business not very brisk yet.

I have sold some pictures during the summer to WH Whiston and Bostock and others unframed £1 each, some less - not done much this dark weather - am sketching one for the next Derby Free Library exhibition - to be held in Exchange.

Sunday 25 December 1892 Xmas Day

Last Sunday the thermometer was 50 degrees. Today it is 24, yesterday 28.

A splendid hen turkey from Soulbys - 14lbs in the feathers - nothing else yet.

Fred Mason (Eardley’s son) who has been with us since last May has gone home to Alford until Tuesday next. Turkey splendid.

Tuesday 2 January 1893

Monday 26 December 1892 Rosa Harry Lil Laura and I went to hana’s (?) Pond at 10am skated till 3.45pm then home to dinner. Thermometer in morning 18 degrees.

Tuesday 27 December All went again. I left 12.30 having a business appointment. The others staid until about 4pm. Thermometer rising 16 degrees.

Wednesday 28 December Rosa Lil Lau and I went on canal to Chellaston 1pm to 5.30pm.

Thursday 29 December Rheumatic in hips. All at home.

Friday 30 December until today have been on sofa bad rheumatism chiefly in hips and back - little better today.

Dry calm frosts from Friday 23 December until today 3 January 93, and now about 1 ½ inch snow - bright and clear again tonight.

Rosa has caught cold. They can all skate now.

Fred Mason brought back a hamper from Mother 13 lbs beef, cakes etc etc.

Saturday 7 January 1893

Rosa been in bed 3 days (note at end of section “re Highton) - better this morning. I did not get out until 5^th inst, very stiff and rheumatic yet.

On Thursday night (5 January) 27 degrees of frost. Last night 2 ½ inches of snow - wind E and NE.

Thaw began.

Presentation of medals to Volunteer Officers of 20 years standing, at Drill Hall -went by invitation with Annie. J Higgins did not attend.

Tuesday 17 January 1893

On Monday and Tuesday morning last week I was at the office, since then I have been chiefly on the sofa, and not out of the house. Lumbago at times very acute.

We heard last week that Eardley is worse. Lottie (Dolman) has written to Will on the matter. I have had a nice letter from Lizzie, now housekeeper with Mr Kirkby of Sutterton near Boston, I hope she will do well.

Mother, now 84, keeps wonderfully well for her age.

Business bad.

Saturday 21 January 1893

Went out yesterday morning 11 to 1pm - with Lil and Laura. Laura’s 12^th Birthday.

Bad again in afternoon.

On Thursday afternoon went with Harry to Hazlewood in cab (affidavits). Been in the House rest of the week.

22 May 1893

Annie Lil Laura Harry Fred Mason and self to Willington and walked to Burton.

1 July 1893 Harry and self to Miller’s Dale and walked to Buxton.

Wednesday 16 August 1893

Wednesday afternoon is now tradesman’s holiday in Derby and very slow for work. This afternoon Annie Lil Lau and I went by train 3.15pm to Duffield, and walked by the Brook to Hazlewood. The country is lovely. We saw 3 magpies in one field and five soon after!

The weather is intensely hot and except when we had a thunder storm a week ago it has been hot all along since May. It has been the driest on record since February last.

Mrs Thomas Clark (W) formerly of The Elms died very suddenly last Tuesday - heart disease.

I have never touched wine beer or spirits since Xmas last!

On the 20^th July Annie Rosa and I went by afternoon train to Chellaston, to stroll about the Fields. We missed the last Derby train; and came home by Castle Donington and Trent! We all enjoyed the escapade.

PS It was not on purpose.

22 July Lil Lau and self to Millers Dale and walked on to Buxton. Very hot but lovely walk - their first walk in the Peak.

25 July May Walker married.

On Monday 7 August 1893 Bank Holiday

I went with Annie Rosa Lil and Laura to Scarborough by excursion train. We left Derby at 3am, but should have started at 2am - the earlier trains were crammed but we had a compartment to ourselves, which was very comfortable. It was raining when we started and rained when we arrived at Scarborough at 6.30am, but cleared off in about half an hour. We went up to the castle first, then by the Harbour, and ferried across to the fish quay - Ped. Then into the aquarium until 1pm.

It is just 31 years since I staid here with the Brackenburys and there is not so much alteration as I expected. The large Hotel was there partly built, the aquarium is new. The Town on the top of the cliff has spread a good deal towards Oliver’s Mount, and the North bay is improved, and has a Pier, promenade etc. These I think are the chief. They have given up fish in the aquarium. There are some seals and monkeys.

In the afternoon we went down towards the South, Lil and Laura paddled, I made a small sketch, Annie and Rosa rested. Then Rosa and I went up the new tram lift to the Cliff above the Spa, and walked into the Town and back to the shore.

Tea at 5.30 and at 8 to the station. Had a splendid day and a great treat.

31 August Lil Lau Harry and self to Chaddesden fields to see Races, starting point.

7 September 24^th anniversary of our wedding.

Pratt to dinner 6.30pm.

11 September 1893 In consequence of Colliers strike and threats of damage the 17^th Lancers about 80 of them, brought to Derby and stationed in the Drill Hall.

Saturday 16 September 1893

Lil Laura and self to Buxton, through by train. Went into Pool’s Cavern, the Museum gardens, to tea at Miss Steeple’s, but she has left. Lovely day, and all enjoyed it very much. The children have not seen any of the caverns before.

December 1893

Made and painted large canvas 3 fold screen for Drawing Room -each fold 5ft high 22 inches wide. On one side, to left, “Adjutant” and Eastern background; Wild Ducks (centre); Flamingo (right). On reverse one large scene Owls and forest lighted by moon.

25 December 1893

Communion St Lukes 8am. Quiet day.

26 December By train to Duffield with Harry and Lil and Lau and walked back. Lovely day.

27 December Dinner Party to see Hounds at Barracks.

6 January 1894 Thermometer 26 degrees

Harry and children skating, not strong enough for me, looked on.

12 January Frost gone.

20 January Ernest arrived home from Philadelphia. Works there closed.

22 February Ernest Harry and Lil skating on hana’s (?) Pond - looked on.

7 March Harry caught tame jackdaw.

23 March Lil and self walk to Duffield back by train.

26 March Harry Lil Lau and self by train to Spondon. Walked to Locks and Dale Abbey and on to West Hallam. Back by G.N.R.

May 1894

14 May Annie Lil Lau, Lillie Briggs Harry, Fred and self to Weston and Castle Donington lovely walk.

16 May Vinny Briggs, Bernard’s Fiancée to tea first time.

16 June Annie Lau and self to Tutbury and Burton. Annie and Laura’s first visit to Tutbury.

20 June Annie and self to Nottingham. Arboretum and new aviaries very nice.

23 June Ernest came to stay till Monday. He is now at Kidderminster designing.

30 June Rosa and self to Cheedale and on by train to Buxton.

7 July With Laura to Nottingham to see Rev Dr Ward. Lost my gold and topaz pin.

26 July Annie and self to West Hallam.

28 July Annie Lil Lau and Harry and self to Boston and Freiston Shore. First time there - sea is 1 ½ miles from Beach at low water - about 1 mile of mud flat - wonderful place. 2 Hotels no houses - 5 miles from Boston. Drove there.

August Landlord (Winfield) painted and papered Drawing Room, Hall, stairs and our bedroom!

18 August Annie Lil Lau and self to Skegness 2pm. Fine to Boston then rain. Fine later. 7pm there rain till we left at 8.30pm.

29 August Annie and self to Etwall 4pm “Looking Round” first time been in village.

7 September 25^th anniversary of Wedding day. Very happy. Had Vinny and Miss G Booth and Pratt to tea and all children at home except Ernest.

12 September Annie and self to see Mother at Auntie’s house at Chapel. She and Fanny and Connie Brackenbury are staying there. Went by 8.25 am train to Skegness and drove on to Chapel around 1pm.

Mother is turned 86 and is wonderful in all her faculties - she goes up and down the sand bank to the Bank House quite 50 yards and very steep - gets up to Breakfast 8.30 and is a marvel. I haven’t seen her since 1888 - at Sutton. She was very pleased and we all were very happy to meet. I last saw Connie at Alford in 1885.

Harry Rosa Lil and Lau have learned to swim this summer in the Baths.

Aunt Bradley some time ago had a stroke of paralysis and now cannot walk but is well and goes out in a bathchair. She has not been to Chapel this year.

Harry went to Skegness for a week by himself on 31^st August. The first time he has been alone. He enjoyed it very much. Bernard joined him for a few days.

22 September Lil Rosa and self to Nottingham for the afternoon. To arboretum, castle etc home 8pm. Ernest came home from Kidderminster for a week’s holiday. He is stouter and settling down.

24 September Harry and self to Liverpool by 6.30am train. Went to Picture Exhibition, Museum, New Brighton, on the river and Docks. Saw the Etruria, Cephalonia, Aurania, Kappahammock and Germania in Dock. Left 8.20pm. Lovely weather and enjoyed the day very much. Harry’s first visit.

29 September Annie and self Ernest Gertie Booth, Bernard Vinnie Briggs Rosa, Walter Pratt, Harry Lil Laura and Fred (Mason) made an expedition to Morley church, which we admire very much. Very pleasant outing.

22 October Annie and self- expedition to Etwall - looked about generally - very pretty village.

13 November Annie and I walked to Little Eaton and back. Enjoyed it very much.

22 December Ernest came for Xmas.

29 December Went to early service on Xmas day, not been out since - had slight bronchitis. Ernest came home on 24^th staid till Thursday. Fred went to Alford. Frost commenced on 31 December. We had a very happy Xmas. Fanny is at Mrs Fletcher’s at Bognor. We hope she will visit us on her way back.

31 December First day out since 25^th - to office.

1 January 1895

Slight fall of snow.

7 January Snow about 1 inch thaws and frosts alternately.

9 January Rosa Lil Lau and Harry and self went to Melbourne skating. I had from 3 to 5 and gave over. Rheumatic - Had pleasant afternoon and home by 7.15 train.

12 January Heavy frost. In some places 27 degrees of frost. After 7pm weather began to moderate.

13 January Heavy fall of snow during night, thawing this morning with some rain.

14 January Thaw continued. Snow nearly gone.

19 and 20 January (Sunday) Heavy rain. 22 degrees snow.

23 January Notice that Lilian and Laura had both passed exam of College of Preceptors. Lil 2^nd class 2^nd division - only missed 1^st class by 5 marks. Laura 1^st class 3^rd division.

24 January Snowed at 6am and rained at 8.30am after.

26 January Thermometer 26 degrees hard frost, skating (Chaddesden) on the moors.

27 January Thermometer 22 degrees.

28 and 29 January Snow. 22 degrees.

30 January Snow 24 degrees. Harry Lil and Lau to Allestree.

31 January 26 degrees.

1 February 28 degrees. 3 inches of snow.

5 February 22 degrees.

6 February 14 degrees.

7 February 18 degrees.

8 February 10 degrees.

9 February 10 degrees.

10 February 16 degrees.

11 February 26 degrees.

12 February 16 degrees.

13 February 14 degrees.

14 February 20 degrees.

15 February 26 degrees.

16 February 28 degrees. To new exhibition of Pictures at the Library. Very good.

17 February 32 degrees.

18 February 30 degrees.

19 February 34 degrees.

20 February 30 degrees. Annie Rosa and self to Etwall for change.

21 February 32 degrees.

22 February 34 degrees. Thaw began slightly.

23 February 36 degrees.

27 February Rosa went to Reverend Cray’s, Lamplugh near Cockermouth as governess to girl aged 9 - her own desire, for change - we hope it will do her good.

March 6 To Pinxton County Council Election. Have not bee there since 1869-70 when I went about Wilkinson’s lease to Blackwell Colling Co. Bernard and Harry have had influenza. Getting better.

March 16 Took Lil half day to Birmingham 1^st time she has been - went to Charley’s Aunt at Theatre Royal. Enjoyed our outing very much.

March 20 Lil and Harry to ‘Santley’ concert first time they have heard him.

Mrs Fred Soulby died a month or two back and Lizzie has gone to keep his house.

Rosa likes the Crays very much.

April to June 1895

15 April Easter Monday Annie Laura and self by train 1.50 to Dovedale, drove from Ashbourne - arrived at the Dale 4.20pm. Harry Fred Mason and Heath walked to the Dale 16 miles starting at 8.30am. We went up Thorp Cloud, and on reaching the vale again met the three boys. Home 6.50pm arriving 8.20pm. A lovely clear day but rather cold East wind.

Not been to Dove Dale since 1885 when Ernest Bernard Rosa Harry and I went to Wirksworth by train and walked to Dove Dale.

To 7am Communion with Annie yesterday morning and to 11am service.

16 April Bernard returned from a visit to Ernest at Kidderminster.

24 April Annie and I went to Theatre to hear ‘Van Bien’ in the “Broken Melody” he is very clever. Been a showery month.

May 8 Annie and I went to Ambergate for afternoon and has a most enjoyable walk through the woods.

May 11 Same short excursion with Laura to Etwall very hot.

May 25 Harry and self to London by half day trip - the first run between Derby and London. Started 1.2pm arrived at St Pancras 4.55pm. Harry’s first visit. Went direct by cab to zoo. Stayed till 7.45. Walked through Park, bus to Piccadilly. To Westminster, dinner at aquarium stayed until 9.20pm. Walk down Strand through Covent Garden to Alhambra till 11 left for home 12.

June 1 Harry and Fred Mason went to Chapel for 10 days by themselves stayed at Raynor’s.

June 4 Annie Laura and self drove round Kedleston Park in afternoon (Whit Tuesday) not been for long time.

June 7 My 52^nd Birthday!

June 13 Annie and self to Egginton 4pm looking about - first visit.

June 15 Annie Lil Laura and self to Skegness 8am arrived 11.35 returned 8.35pm. Lovely day.

June 21 Lil went to Alford to Mother’s for a visit - by herself - her first journey alone. She finished school at Xmas - passed the first College of Preceptors.

June 23 Annie and self to Early Communion St Luke’s.

June 24 Attack of rheumatism in right hip came on during the night-very lame.

June 25 Bad night - worse.

June 26 Consulted Dr Wilson “below the mark”, usual medicine. Heavy thunderstorm 5 to 7.30pm. General.

June 27 Thunder again. Rheumatism rather better.

June 29 Much better.

June 30 Showers again. Better.

July 5 Lord Roseberry retired, Lord Salisbury accepted Premiership - new election as soon as possible. Sir W Harcourt and Sir T Roe meeting tonight at Drill Hall. Did not go.

July 6 Annie and self to Buxton by afternoon excursion - 2 3/4 hours going, arrived 4.35pm. Went through caverns, and walked about, sun very hot, nice breeze, very fine. Enjoyed it very much. Return journey 1 ½ hours.

July 8 2 appointments as presiding Officer for County at Langley Mill and Halland.

July 10 Annie and I went to Etwall 3.45pm - very hot.

July 13 At Borough Election 8am to 11.15pm. Bemrose and Draper turned out Sir William Harcourt and Sir T Roe by 887. Bemrose over 1200 majority. Sir William last election over 2000 majority. The first time 2 Conservatives have been returned since 1832, Mr W. T. Cox having been in since 1867. Hurrah!

July 14 Showers began.

July 15 Lilian returned from Alford.

July 17 Annie and self to West Hallam. Mrs Dawes called us in for afternoon tea.

July 19 To Langley Mill Election. Harry my clerk and Stafford. Polled 497 out of 576.

July 20 Life Boat demonstration in Derby. Annie Lil Laura and I went together. Very slow, many there. Showery still, weather has broken up. Bernard and Pratt went to Chapel to lodge with Miss Smeaton, 10 days.

July 22 Ernest went back to Kidderminster after a few days visit.

July 24 Annie and I went by 3.45pm train to Egginton, walked as far as Sir Henry Every’s. Lovely place.

July 29 Annie went with me to Ripley, called on Mr and Mrs Marcus Baker.

July 30 Rosa came home for holiday, arrived 10.15pm. I met her. Looks well and stouter.

July 31 Bernard and Walter returned from Chapel.

August 1 Rosa has a gathering on her instep, called in W McKay, who has lately commenced next door. Rain during July has been very bad.

August 5 Bank Holiday. Lil, Lau, Harry, Fred, Bernard and Vinney and self to Skegness 12.35. Mrs Briggs, Lilian Briggs and their youngest and Edmunds joined our party. Arrived there 3.40. Weather fine. Went to Chapel. Drove. Robins House where Annie and I stayed in July 71 has been pulled down and a large house built. Mrs R is alive. Lil and Lau had their first swim in the sea at Chapel. Back to Skegness 7pm to meat tea.

Were to leave 9.30pm. Kept waiting on open platform till 12.45 arrived Derby 4am! No more!! Enjoyed the afternoon.

August 8 Bernard’s 24^th birthday, he has been ill but is better. Rosa has had two abscesses from a poisoned wound in her foot, and is in bed yet. Fred Mason’s head is bad with ‘eczema’ - think he will have to go home.

August 9 Long day at office- settling Mrs Truce’s business.

August 10 Annie and self 1.50 to Buxton. Train 15 minutes late leaving as usual. Arrived Buxton 4.5pm. Heavy shower on arrival. Tea and to gardens- heard band play Overture to Maritana and 1 song Mr Jordon and left. Thunder storms in many places. Bad in London.

August 12 Bernard better, to work again, but not well. Rosa 2^nd abscess coming to head. Fred went home to Alford. Rain within every 24 hours since beginning of July.

August 15 Harry and I went by special excursion to Cromer. First time for both. Started 4.30am arrived 9am. Travelled by new line Midland and G.N.R. joint to Holt, Melton, Bourne, Spalding, Lyn and Melton Constable Junction. Lovely day perfectly calm. Beautiful views and very nice old place. Swim at 12.30, dined at the Royal Hotel 1.30pm. Had row in afternoon etc and left 8.45pm arrived home 2am.- foggy off-shore horns blowing all day.

August 22 Thunderstorm 3am heavy rains. Very hot.

August 24 Laura and self trip. Left 8.35am Boston arrived 11am. By steamer boat to Hunstanton arrived off there 2.30pm. Water not deep enough to land. Waited out off till 4pm then direct to Skegness arrived there 6pm tea and home by train 8.35pm arrived 12 midnight. Fine day strongish West Wind - very pleasant.

Passed Frieston Shore close in. Saw some seals basking on the sand in the middle of The Wash. They tumbled into the water when we were about 3 yards off and came up again close to the boat 2 or 3 times. Both enjoyed the day very much. About 200 on boat. Our first round - Laura’s first on the open sea.

August 28 Annie, Rosa and I went by 8.35am Excursion G.N.R. to Skegness. 2.30pm drove to Chapel called on Will and Iley there. I have not seen them since Autumn 1891 at Derby station for a short time. They are both almost invalids. Will’s nervous system is still bad, Iley is rheumatic and very stout. Had a lovely drive and day out. Did Rosa good. Saw Mary Mason but not Maurice.

August 31 Annie and self by 3.45pm train to Egginton - very fine and hot- enjoyed strolling about very much.

September 1 Annie Rosa Laura and self to St Andrew’s in morning. Mr Prior preached very good sermon. Very hot.

September 2 Rosa Lilian and self to London 6.55 Excursion. Arrived 11am a little behind time. Straight to zoo. Orang Utan young a new arrival - very interesting creature - very slow and deliberate. Got new giraffe. Now only one. On 1.15pm by Marble Arch through Hyde Park to Serpentine, Rotten Row (no one there) Piccadilly and to Westminster 3pm. Dinner there- into Westminster Abbey, to Westminster Bridge and by boat to London Bridge. Saw new Tower Bridge first time. To St Paul’s and on to Gaiety Luncheon Bar for tea. To Terry’s Theatre a “Prude’s Progress” - very nice piece Chiefs Miss Brough Mr Nighton. Hot sun, nice breeze, left St Pancras 12.5 midnight. Home 4am.

September 3 Thunder hail and rain. 1^st rain since 28^th August.

September 7 Ernest came for a few days. Looks very well.

September 11 Wednesday Harry and self to agricultural show. A very good show.

September 12 Annie Lil and self to show.

September 14 8.25am Annie and self to Alford. We went on to Sutton arriving there 11.50am. The sea looked lovely, some nice waves. On to Alford and arrived there 1.25pm. Fanny and Connie Brackenbury met us. Found Mother wonderfully well and active, looking better I think than she did last year. Annie, Fanny, Connie and I walked to Well in the afternoon. Called on Soulbys in evening.

September 15 (Sunday) Up at 6.15am. Walked to Tothby alone. 5 sycamores planted by Father about 1860 in the Home Field have grown well. One walnut by the House has grown well also. The 3 fine old Elm Trees are beginning to die, and the old ash in the garden is gone. The poplars are very little altered. Very little other change. A Mr Brown now occupies the Farm.

To church in the morning. Mother with us. Walked with Annie to Rigsby in the afternoon. Some improvements have been made and the place looked very nice. A greenhouse has been added on the East side. Annie and self to supper at the Soulby’s. Louie Soulby has grown a big girl.

September 16 Up 6.15am. To Saleby hill and had a good look round. Called on Mrs John, Mrs Eardley and others in morning. Afternoon drove Annie and Connie to Rigsby, Thorsesby. Aby, Claythorpe, Withern and home 6pm. Fanny had to attend Mrs Hill’s funeral at Wincely.

September 17 Left Alford 6.42am, arrived Derby 10.50am. To office.

Will North has left Thorseby and Leslie Stephenson taken the Farm.

September 21 Lil and self to Horse show on Race course, promoted by Lord Harrington. Jumping very good. Polo ponies excellent.

September 26 Rosa went back to Lamplugh (by York).

September 28 Annie and self to Boston 2pm Excursion. Had a good look round.

October 3 Annie very poorly. Sick and diarrhoea. Called in Dr McKay 3pm.

October 10 Annie out walk to station in afternoon - first time - very weak yet.

October 19 Annie and self 2.15pm to Willington till 4.56. Strolled in fields. Lovely calm afternoon.

October 23 First Frost in Town. 32 degrees at 8am NE wind.

October 24 Thermometer 28 degrees 7am. N wind.

October 28 Frost every night since 22^nd. Shower of snow.

November 3 Rosa 21^st birthday - gave her ring etc. Weather changed to damp and rain.

November 30 This has been a wet month. Very quiet.

December 2 Lil and self to Mikado. 3 to Gondoliers.

December 7 Annie Lil and self to Yeomen of the Guard.

December 25 Slight snow. 30 degrees. Been damp, warm, wet, very stormy month.

Presents Turkey, Soulbys, Pheasants, Clark, Beef etc Mother.

December 27 Ernest and Rosa at home. Merry party.

December 29 Snow gone. Raining.

Monday December 30 Ernest returned to Kidderminster. To office again - not much stirring. I am thankful to record that the past has been an improving year. I have paid off a large amount of old debts and trust the coming year may see them all paid.

We have lately heard from Thom Wright. He is now Vicar of Frisby on the wreath, near Melton Mowbray, and married a 2^nd time.

The weather has been very mild since the 26^th, the thermometer going up to 50 degrees. Wind mostly S and SW.

Wednesday 1 January 1896

All well thank God. May a blessing rest upon us all through this year.

7 January Had small evening party - Bell - Arthur Hudson.

9 January Tableaux Vivants St Michaels. I played 2 flute solos and sang “Sweethearts”. Rosa played Mandolin, Harry Banjo, Lil and Laura piano etc.

13 January Rosa returned to Rev Cray’s.

Not out much all the month.

Saturday 1 February 1896

Annie and self to Birmingham to Pantomime of Santa Claus at Royal Theatre. Very good. Enjoyed our afternoon out very much.

Saturday 8 February Ill - inflammation in bowels - bad till 10 on Sunday - poulticed etc - Mr Kay attended.

Monday 10 February In bed all day

Tuesday 11 February To office 12 to 1.30 by cab.

Wednesday 12 February In all day.

Thursday 13 February To Normanton with Rice. Very fine and mild - did me good.

Friday 14 February To office all day - very sickly yet.

Weather been very fine and mild over 14 days.

February 19 Annie and self to Etwall 3.46. Walked to Hilton and back. Lovely day. Miss Norton ill.

February 22 Annie and self to Buxton by G.N.R. Very cold E wind. Tea and home 8pm.

February 24 28 degrees at 7am. To lecture by Arnold Bemrose on volcanoes.

February 25 26 degrees.

February 26 26 degrees. Very cold. Hard frost since Sunday with East wind which has gone round to West today noon.

March 13 Unwin Fowler’s (?) Mill partly burnt down.

March 17 Derby steeplechases. Went with Lilian.

March 21 Annie and self to Etwall, walked to Egginton. Rain all time.

March 24 Thunderstorm 8pm distant.

March 25 Annie and self to Melbourne afternoon. Had good look all over. Been very stormy wet month.

April 4 Ernest came for Easter.

April 5 Easter Sunday. Annie Ernest Bernard Vinnie Lil and Lau (their 1^st communion) and self to 8am communion.

April 6 Annie Lil Lau Bernard Vinnie and self to Tutbury for afternoon.

April 7 Ernest Bernard and self to Theatre “Sign of the Cross”

Thursday 9 April 1896

Ernest went back to Kiddermimster.

Annie and I went to Nottingham 3.10pm. By steam boat to Colwich for first time. Fine old Hall and grounds.

Wednesday 15 April Annie and I went to Theatre. Mr and Mrs Kendal in “A scrap of paper”. She has grown stout but acts as well or better than ever. He has improved in appearance too. It is some years since I have seen them.

25 April Annie Lil Laura and self (by Excursion 2/-) to Lincoln 2.5pm arrived 3.40pm. Lil and Laura first visit. It is 23 years since I spent any time in Lincoln although I have passed through the station once or twice. I was there in July 1873 to settle some business of Brackenbury’s. On arriving we went straight to the Castle and saw over the grounds, the now disused Prison and the Law Courts. Then to the Cathedral and Lil Lau and I went to the top of the great Tower. We had a magnificent view but it was a little hazy and very sunny. I nearly failed about 2/3 of the way up, but after a rest finished the ascent.

Had tea at the ? Arms - not altered at all. Went about the Town after till 10pm then left.

16 May Harry’s 19^th birthday anniversary.

25 May Whit Monday. At home in the morning. Annie and I went to Willington in the afternoon. I made 2 sketches.

26 May Harry and I went to Yarmouth and Lowestoft. Started 4.45am. Arrived Yarmouth 10.25am. I have not been there since September 1969 when Annie and I spent part of a day there during our ‘honeymoon’ at Lowestoft. The weather very fine. Wind moderate N.E. Went by the beach to the South Dene. Saw the Norfolk Yeomanry drill, then into the town and market place. Dinner at 1.30 at the Aquarium refreshment rooms. The Aquarium has been given up it would not pay, the ‘season’ takings would not support it, and the Town would not. It is now made into a Theatre and refreshment rooms. It has been built since I was last here. After dinner we walked along the ‘quay’, and viewed the Hotel where Annie and I dined. A new Town Buildings has been built in 1880 - a fine red brick building. Then at 3.40 by train to Lowestoft. The old Town and the north side of the Harbour have been much added to and altered. The South Parade not.

The North side of the Harbour entrance has been much silted up. A large refreshment building has been built by the side of the old South Pier taking up part of the Harbour but the harbour has been much extended to the northward.

The old open cliff near the Coastguard Station has been partly enclosed and pretty gardens or “The Park” opened. Altogether there is much more alteration in Lowestoft than Yarmouth.

Returned to Yarmouth 6.30pm. Tea and over the church - a very fine old building. Started home 8.45pm - arrived 2.30am. Harry’s first visit.

Sunday 31 May 1896

No rain yet, been exceedingly dry spring and hot.

Thursday 4 June Rain fell.

Friday 5 June Rain fell.

Saturday 6 June Rain fell. Harry and Fred started to Isle of Man for 10 days holiday.

7 June Showers. My 53^rd birthday - several letters.

8, 9, 10, 11 June Showery.

12 June Fine and hot.

13, 14, 15, 16 June Very hot.

17 June Rain.

Thursday 18 June Annie and self to Whatstandwell and Crich. Lovely walk. Sketched “Crich Stand”.

Saturday 20 June Annie and self to Egginton. Sketched the Hall and grounds.

Monday 22 June Emily Mason called.

Saturday 4 July Rosa came home. Left the Crays for good.

Thursday 9 July June and July so far been very damp.

Saturday 11 July Annie and self to Buxton. Very fine hot. Enjoyed the change.

Wednesday 15 July Annie Rosa and self to Skegness 8.35am train. Windy day N.W., fine. Enjoyed it very much. Left 6.35pm.

Monday 27 July Rosa and self to London 5.20am arrived 9.10am. Went straight to Academy till 12. Walked about took tickets for Lyric Theatre and by 1.40pm to Crystal Palace. Left there 7.10pm and straight to Theatre “Sign of the Cross” - a magnificent piece. Wilson Barratt did not act. Very pleasant day.

31 July Pratt obtained appointment at Lancaster.

Saturday 1 August Ernest came over.

Monday 3 August 1896

Bank Holiday At home in the morning. Annie and I went to Willington in the afternoon. I made a nice sketch of the lion etc.

4 August With Ernest 4.30pm to cricket match Derby v Hampshire. Not been to a match for a long time. Derby won by 8 wickets.

Wednesday 5 August Pugh the Brackenfield murderer hanged for murdering Boot and girl. Last execution in Derby was in 1889.

Edward Soulby’s brother Fred drowned himself at Peterborough last week.

13 August Annie and self to Willington.

15 August Annie and self to Etwall.

21 August Dr T.D. Cooke (Thilsby) was staying at Spondon called on me at office - not seen since 1886.

Saturday 22 August Annie and self to Matlock not been there together since 1887. I have been since with Clark I think. Very pleasant afternoon. Went up Heights of Abraham. Splendid view.

Tuesday 25 August Annie and self to Benton afternoon.

Tuesday 1 September Rainy day.

4 and 5 September Rain. Walter Pratt went to Lancaster.

7 September 27^th anniversary of wedding. Office morning. Annie and self to Etwall and walked to Egginton 3.45 to 6pm. Very pleasant walk.

9 September Derby Agricultural show. Went with Harry 2pm. Very good show. Heavy rain ½ hour in afternoon.

10 September Second day of show. Took Laura. Showery. Much rain this month so far.

Saturday 12 September Annie self Rosa Harry Lil and Laura to Cleethorpes. Started 7.20am by G.N.R.. Went by Boston arrived 11.15. Ran from Boston in 1hr 5mins. Looked out at Alford and Louth stations but saw no one.

Cleethorpes has grown very much since last there 3 September 1881. We then met Mother and Fanny (and Lizzie?) There. Annie and I went in to Grimsby after dinner to see L Haddlesey and Dick Mason but they had left at 1pm.

Heavy shower 3 to 5.30pm but went on Pier etc. Enjoyed the day very much. Left at 7.35pm home 12 midnight.