mill. A portion of the grist was usually allowed the owner for his

services.

In the Evening Mr _Carter_ sent for _Ben_ & I to play over the _Sonata_ which we have lately learn'd; we performed it, & had not only Mr Stadleys Approbation, but his praise; he did me the honour to say that "I play a good Flute." He took a Flute also and play'd; which put me in mind, at once, of the speech of the Shepherd in virgil.--Non tu in Triviis, indocte, solebas Stridenti miserum Stipula disperdere cament [carmen]. For when compared to him, the best that Ben or I can do, is like Crows among Nightingales--We play'd till ten, and separated, I gave to Miss Harriot, for saying a good lesson, half a Bit--

_Saturday 19._

The morning still wet & disagreeable--Last night I dreamed much of the Girl, which, I most of all others, esteem, & admire; of _Laura_; But oh! I dreamed She was treacherous!--If it be true, I must suppress the Greatness of my Disappointment by reflecting that I had not well enough considered this Sentiment of the _poet_, That,--Varium et mutabile Femina--I discover weakness when I am writing in this manner; but Anxiety, and mighty-Love carry me over the bounds which I set for the regulation of my conduct--Dreams indeed are vain & false; But perhaps _Laura_ may think that Lovers vows are vain & trifling as they!--I spend the day in my Room looking over the Catalogue of the _Reviewers_ for August, September, October & November 1773.--Ben, & Bob, & Harry, out tho the Day is bad--Mr _Stadley_ is yet busy with the young Ladies--

_Sunday 20._

The weather still cloudy, damp, and disagreeable, but it is perfectly calm; people here attribute this so long dullness to the Sun crossing the Line which is to happen to-morrow--After Breakfast Mr Stadley left us, The day is so bad none of us go to Church--Before Dinner I received from Mr Lane, by his Servant a Note, informing me that he is to set out tomorrow for home--In return, by the Same bearer, I wrote him my Compliments in a letter; desiring him to remember me to my Acquaintances in Pennsylvania, & New Jersey, as he will probably soon see many of them--I spent much of this Day in Mr Carters Library among the works of mighty-Men; I turned over _Calmets_, Scripture prints, they are beautiful, & vastly entertaining--At Dinner by some means, I know not how a conversation was introduced concerning the Souls of Women; Mrs _Carter_ observed that She has heard they have no Souls--Says Miss Priscilla in a moment if I thought so I would not have spent all this morning in Reading; nor would Women, (Said the well discerning Miss) be careful to avoid any Shameful, or Sinful Action--It is not unlikly but those are the private Sentiments of many among the Fair; & no doubt they would be generally and publickly practised if it should be universally admitted that the Soul of a Woman is not to exist after the present Life.

_Monday 21._

This day the days and nights are equal--The Sun enters _Aries_--Aries [Libra] dies Somniq: pares ubi fecerit Horas, Et medium suis atq: Umbris jam dividet Orbem. _Virgil._ Georgic I.

At Breakfast Mrs Carter asked me who is foremost in Arithmetic; whether Bob, or Prissy? At which Mr Carter observed, that him of his Sons whom he finds most capable of doing Business when he leaves the World, & his Estate, Shall have the management of the whole, & support the Rest. It seemed to me to be not an ill-chosen Incentive to Diligence among the Boys--

This morning still cloudy, the wind at South--about ten a black-gloomy cloud appeared in the west; it came over like Virgils--Omnia Ventorum concurrere proelia [vidi]--The wind changed with the cloud to the westward--Dined with us Mr Washington & Mr Philip Smith, Brother to the Parson of this parish, to whom I was formally introduced--Toasts as usual--Towards Evening it grows more pleasant & after School, I had the pleasure of a walk in the Garden with Mrs Carter, Miss Stanhope, & Miss Harriot--The peas have grown admirably since my last Walk; & indeed all the Herbs seem sprouting--Harry this Day finished vulgar Fractions, & began Practice. Expence to day as Pin-Money a Bit or 7½d

_Teusday 22._

Once more the weather fine--Last night by some accident, the Main Spring of my Watch either unhook'd or broke, for when I thought She had run down, & trying to wind her, I found the Chain made no Resistance As there is no oppertunity here of having her refitted, I seem in considerable difficulty--In Spite of all my strongest opposing efforts, my thoughts dwell on that Vixen _Laura_. I strive to refuse them admission, or harbour them in my heart, yet like hidden fire they introduce themselves, & seize; & overcome me when perhaps I am pursuing some amuseing or useful Study; on giving precepts & Directions to my little fair Seminary--At ten Mr Lane & Mr John Simpson call'd to see us--At twelve we had a pleasant walk in the Garden--Mr Carter, & Mrs Carter along--Mr Lane informs that he has by particular Request, in the Absence of the Parson, Read the funeral Service twice since he has been in the county, which is only a few Weeks--He sets off for home soon; Mr Carter says he is in Love, & I think it is with Miss _Camel_. I was introduced to Mr _Simpson_: He talks much; & often mentions his having been to England--They Dined with us; Toasts as usual. Evening I have the Tooth Ach.

_Wednesday 23._

I was almost wholly deprived of Sleep last night with a pain in my Jaw & Teeth; which conti[n]ues this morning so bad I scarce know what, or how to do--Frail, & weak nature; how we are forever teas'd, & vexed with Anciety in our minds, or Pains & other distresses in our Bodies!--We dined at half after two--It is now seven in the Evening & I am about entering into bed, as the pain has entirely left me, that I may satisfy my Body for last nights loss of my usual rest, I leave Ben by the Fire, poring over a History of England, nodding Sometimes, however, & impatient of the distance of nine o-Clock.--

_Thursday 24._

At Breakfast Mr Carter entertained us with an account of what he himself saw the other Day, which is a strong Representation of the cruelty & distress which many among the Negroes suffer in Virginia! Mr Carter dined at Squire Lees some few Weeks ago; at the same place, that day, dined also Mr George Turburville & his Wife--As Mr Carter rode up he observed Mr Turburvilles Coach-Man sitting on the Chariot-Box, the Horses off--After he had made his compliments in the House, He had Occasion soon after to go to the Door, when he saw the Coachman still sitting, & on examination found that he was there fast chained! The Fellow is inclined to run away, & this is the method which This Tyrant makes use of to keep him when abroad; & so soon as he goes home he is delivered into the pityless Hands of a bloody Overseer!--In the Language of a Heathen I query whether cunning old _Charon_ will not refuse to transport this imperious, haughty Virginian Lord When he shall happen to die over the Styx to the Elysian Gardens; lest his Lordship in the passage should take affront at the treatment, & attempt to chain him also to the Stygean Galley for Life!--

Or, In the language of a Christian, I query whether he may be admitted into the peaceful Kingdom of Heaven where meekness, Holiness, & Brotherly-Love, are distinguishing Characteristicks?--

Tho the Pain in my Teeth has entirely left me, I am not therefore free from distress; for to day I am attacked with a pain in my Head, & Fever; which hinders me from Walking out at twelve as is my Custom!--

_Fryday 25._

I rose by seven--& through Gods mercy I feel myself much relieved of yesterdays complaints--The weather cloudy, cold, rainy at times, & unpleasant--Evening _Ben_ took courage & asked his _Papa_ for his consent to allow him to go with me to Philadelphia--The Colonel very kindly, & at the same time very Politely consented--For he would not agree till he knew of me whether it is agreeable to me, & at my Request that he is to go--

_Saturday 26._

_Ben_ & _Bob_ are soon after Breakfast on Horseback; Breakfasted with us one Lee, a Gentleman of what they call here the back Woods--He seems indeed a little stiff in his manner; but he has had a long Ride--I spend the Day close in my Room Reading Writing &c--

_Sunday 27._

An odd Jumble of affairs happened this morning--_Bob_ drest himself & came into our Room & in his usual way began to be pretty free in telling us _News_. Amongst a vast quantity of other stuff he informed _Ben_ & I that he heard Mr _Randolph_ has the P... we both join'd in severely reprimanding for attempting to propogate so unlikely a Tale--Why, Brother Ben, said the mischeivous Wretch I heard in this Neighbourhood, yesterday a Report concerning you not much to your--but I will conceal it--This inraged Ben he at first however persuaded him but soon began to threaten loudly unless he told the whole--why then, Brother said Bob, it is reported that two Sundays ago you took Sukey (a young likely Negro Girl maid to Mrs Carters youngest Son) into your stable, & there for a considerable time lock'd yourselves together!--Before Bob had done, the Bell rung for Breakfast & we parted--All went to Church to-day but Miss _Nancy_, _Harry_, & _Myself_--I spend the day agreeably in Mr _Carters_ Library--Evening when the Colonel returned, (for he dined at Squire Lee's) he informed me of an affair which happened yesterday in this County, One Smith, a Man of a Middle age who lives with his aged Father, & his Father too is old & declining fast with disease--This youth has lately made a will for his Father which he yesterday compell'd him to sign; & after the Good old Man had obliged him, he beat and abused him (tho his father) in desperate manner it is thought with a design to destroy him! Soon after this he discharged a musket at his own Brother who was at some distance from him & lodged in his body eighteen large Shott!--Docters were immediately call'd--& officers directed to take the villian but he, with his Wife have hid themselves in a Thicket & have as yet evaded the search of the Sheriff--

Sup'd with us one Mr Mathews a Steward for Mr Carter in Louden.

[_Monday 28_]

Breakfasted with us Mr Mathews; he seems to be a man of great Gravity, says little, & Sighs often--The day is warm & vastly mild; it is the first Day we have in all our Rooms been without any Fire--At twelve I rode to Mr Taylors two miles; he was out, I sat half an hour with Miss Taylor & returned to Dinner, the Ride exceeding pleasant, and my Horse seems (as jockeys say) in good Flesh & well prepar'd for our approaching & much wished for Journey--Evening Mr _Simpson_ came in, sup'd & stays the Night. He has last Week, been destilling Mr Carter's Liquor made of Pisimonds--it is soft, mild, of a fair pure Colour, burns clear, but does not answer the Colonels Expectations; so that he does not propose to recommend it to his Neighbours in this or the Neighbouring Counties as a useful experiment. When call'd on for my Toast, at Supper I gave Miss _Jenny Corbin_; Mrs _Carter_ gave Captain _Lee_; & Mr _Simpson_ gave Miss _Jones_.

_Teusday 29._

To warm to day for fire, but we have the wind very strong from the West--Mr _Carter_ rode to Court--Soon after Breakfast I receiv'd a Letter from Mr _Andrew Bryan_ of Baltimore, Maryland formerly at College my Class-Mate--the Letter bears Date January 21st 1774 Dated at _Baltimore_. He informs me of his good Health, & that, he shall soon forward my Letters inclosed to him; perhaps kind oppertunity shall have before this hour favoured my wish, & brought to Laura advices of my State--At twelve I rode out, with Ben, an hour & better, the Day vastly windy. About four Colonel Philip Lee's Chariot arrived, in which came four young Misses to be ready for the Dance which happens here tomorrow--I am informed this Evening that Smith the Villian mentioned last Sunday was to day apprehended, & committed to the prison in this County

_Wednesday 30._

Rainy & cold--The Colonel informed me this morning that the general Opinion of the Gentlemen at Court yesterday seem'd to be that the County would be free'd of three Villians if the old abused Father, the wounded Son & Brother, & the offending guilty Son were to be all hanged--The Day so bad Mr _Christian_ does not attend--Mrs _Washington_ came however, with Miss Jenny her Daughter; the two Fantleroys came also, & Miss Corbin, & Miss Turburville, & one Miss Hale[142] a new _Scholar_--Mr Carters Man play'd & the Dance goes on with great Spirit & neatness. Evening there is as common a good play. Separated all for Bed by half after nine.

[142] The Heale family was a well-known one in Lancaster County where they lived on "Peach Hill" and other manor plantations. The name was apparently pronounced Hale all through the eighteenth century. Priscilla Heale was the daughter of George Heale of Lancaster County. Heale had served as a Burgess from that county.

_Thursday 31._

All our company continue. The morning fair & cool--Yesterday & to-day I am strongly solicited to dance--I decline however & must persevere.--Mr & Mrs Turburville came in before Dinner--With the two Fantleroys, Ben, Bob, & Harry, I had a pleasant walk through the Fields, to the Mill &c. I paid my forfeit to the Baker 7½d--The Plumb-Trees are beginning to blossom--Towards Evening our company all left us.

_Fryday April 1st 1774._

Good Fryday--A general Holiday here--Wednesday & thursday I gave up my School on account of the Dance, and they must have this Day for Devotion!--The Colonel, _Ben Harry_, & _myself_ all go to Ucomico Church--Parson _Smith_ gave the usual Prayers for the Day and a long Sermon very suitable & well chosen.

After Service we were invited and went Home with Captain Walker to dine; I was here introduced to Dr Steptoe[143] & a young Gentleman Brother to the Parson Both seem agreeable, & appear to be men of Sense Dined here also the Parson, his Wife, Sister, Mr Warder the Lawyer

[143] Dr. George Steptoe of "Windsor" in Westmoreland County had been graduated in medicine at Edinburgh in 1767.

Towards Evening we rode home I observed as I rode along People are universally plowing up their Land for planting Corn & for Tobacco And in one field I saw several Women planting Corn I think however, it is early even here--They raise no Flax, their Land in general being so poor that it will not produce it--And their Method of farming is slovenly, without any regard to continue their Land in heart, for future Crops--They plant large Quantities of Land, without any Manure, & work it very hard to make the best of the Crop, and when the Crop comes off they take away the Fences to inclose another Piece of Land for the next years tillage, and leave this a common to be destroyed by Winter & Beasts till they stand in need of it again to plough--The Land most commonly too is of a light sandy soil, & produces in very great quantities shrubby _Savins_ & _Pines_, unless in the Vallies (for it is very hilly) & near the Potowmack where it is often vastly rich--Mr Carter has been lately solicited & was to have gone this Day with a number of Gentlemen to Horn-Point on the River Ucomico, with an intention, if they think the Situation will be proper, to establish Ware-Houses, & form a small Town--It is however, in my opinion, a fruitless Scheme--

_Saturday 2._

The morning stormy. I kept the children in til twelve o-Clock then dismissed them--I spent the greater part of this Day in reading Miscellaneous Pieces out of Magazines--The weather cleared before Evening--At five with _Ben_, I rode over to Mr Turburville's, chiefly to see a young Lady[144] lately from London; who has come over at Mr Turburville's Invitation in the character of Governess to Miss Turburville She seems to be young, genteel, & is not without personal excellence--I received together with Mr _Carters_ Family an Invitation from Mr Turburville to dine with him to morrow; which I propose to accept.--

[144] Miss Sally Panton.

_Sunday 3._

The Day pleasant; I rode to church--after the Service proper for the Day, Mr Smith entertained us with a Sermon from Pauls Defence before King Agrippa "How is it thought a thing impossible with you that God should raise the dead," He in this gave us a very plain & just Discourse on the doctrine of the resurection--This being Easter-Sunday, all the Parish seem'd to meet together High, Low, black, White all come out--After Sermon the Sacrament was administered, but none are admited except communicants to see how the matter is conducted--

After Sermon I rode to Mr Turburville's (for I found to day the true spelling of his name) There dined with him, Ladies Mrs _Carter_, & Mrs _George Turburville_: Gentlemen, Colonel _Carter_, Squire-_Lee_, Mr _Cunningham_, & Mr _Jennings_, Merchants; Mr _George Lee_, & _Ben Carter_ & Myself--We had an elegant dinner; Beef & Greens; roast-Pig; fine boil'd Rock-Fish, Pudding, Cheese &c--Drink: good Porter-Beer, Cyder, Rum, & Brandy Toddy. The Virginians are so kind one can scarce know how to dispense with, or indeed accept their kindness shown in such a variety of instances.--I had again an oppertunity of seeing Miss _Sally Panton_ which is the name of Mrs Turburville's English Governess--But the common voice seems to be against me as to her being Handsome--But her huge _Stays_ low Head _dress_; enormous long _Waist_, a Dress entirely contrary to the liking of Virginia Ladies, these I apprehend make her in their Eyes less personable, than to any one wholly unprejudiced--Her _Stays_ are suited to come up to the upper part of her shoulders, almost to her chin; and are swaithed round her as low as they can possibly be, allowing Her the liberty to walk at all: To be sure this is a vastly modest Dress!--She speaks French & is to teach the Language to Miss Turburville, & also Writing, & reading English--Upon the whole, if her Principles of Religion, & her moral behaviour, be as unexceptionable as her person, & her Manner, let Mr and Mrs Carters opinions go again me I shall think her agreeable--Miss _Prissy_ Miss _Nancy_; & Miss _Fanny_ all stay the night at Captain Turburville's--At Church, Mr Low, a young Scotch Gentleman, tutor in Colonel _Washingtons_ Family, solicited me to carry his Recommendations from Scotland, to Dr Witherspoon as he is desirous to be licensed in one of our northern Presbyteries--I shall do him the Favour.[145]--The country begins to put on her Fowery Garment, & appear in _gaity_--The _Apricots_ are in their fulles Bloom; Peaches also, & Plumbs, & several sorts of Cheries are blossoming; as I look from my Window & see Groves of Peach Trees on the Banks of Nomini; (for the orchards here are very Large) and other Fruit Trees in Blossom; and amongst them interspers'd the gloomy Savin; beyond all these at a great Distance the blue Potowmack; & over this great River, just discern the Woods of Maryland & conceive that beyond them all lies Cohansie my native pleasant Residence; & when I think with myself that by Gods permission, in a very few days more I shall be in the midst of Society, quite remote from formality, and from the least fear of giving offence by being familiar, or of being aw'd to silence by ostentatious vanity: how the thought fires me! Direct my Way, merciful God, and keep my Feet from falling, & my Heart from disobeying thy pure & perfect commandments--And make my Way prosperous that I may go and return again, still doing thy Pleasure, & honouring thy great Name!--

[145] Lowe was apparently not licensed as a Presbyterian minister at this time for he shortly afterwards appears as an Anglican clergyman in St. George's and Hanover Parishes in Virginia.

_Monday 4._

Easter Monday; a general holiday; Negroes now are all disbanded till Wednesday morning & are at Cock Fights through the County; This morning I make a general payment First to Sam the Barber 8/2. Second to Tom the Hostler 7/6. third to Nelson who waits on me /3½. Sum 15/11½--

Mr & Mrs _Carter_, with Mr _Cunningham_ & _Ben_ (as Mr Cunningham came home with us last Night) all rode to Day to Richmond Court--I was in the morning strongly solicited to go, but chose to decline it--After Breakfast, came home from Mr Turburville's our young Ladies, they inform me that Miss Panton discovered a strong inclination to be better acquainted with me; which indeed is a Curiosity that I cannot say I am altogether destitute of. I shall therefore, when I find it convenient make Miss Panton a visit--

I was before Dinner very strongly urged, by Mr Taylor, Mr Randolph, & some others to attend a Cock-Fight, where 25 Cocks are to fight, & large Sums are betted, so large at one as twenty five Pounds, but I choose rather to stay at Home. I read to day, & am much charmed with a Speech of _Plato's_ over Alexander the _Great_ lying dead before him--"O thou, who deceived by vain-Glory didst think of grasping at every thing, others are now going to gather the fruits of thy labours & thy Fatigues. Of so many conquests, there remains of thee but the terrible account, which thou art obliged to render unto the sovereign Judge"!--

I have also to Day with considerable attention been looking over Junius's Letters. His sentiments are strong, & bold. His language is chaste, & concise. & his Genius seems free and vast--I cannot easily omit transcribing a short passage from his Letter to the Revd Mr _Horne_ in which he is speaking of Lord _Chatham_. as it pleases me vastly. "As for the common, sordid views of avarice, or any purpose of vulgar Ambition, I question whether the applause of _Junius_, would be of service to Lord Chatham. My vote will hardly recommend him to an increase of his pension, or to a Seat in the Cabinet. But if his Ambition be upon a levil with his understanding--If he judges of what is truely honourable for himself with the same superior Genius which animates & directs him to Eloquence in Debates, to Wisdom in Decision, even the Pen of _Junius_ shall contribute to reward him. Recorded Honour shall gather round his Monument, & thicken over him. It is a solid Fabric, & will support the Lawrels that adorn it--I am not conversant in the language of panegyric--These praises are extorted from me; but they will wear well, for they have been dearly earned."--

Junius, however, does not seem to have been at all ignorant of his own merit; for in the close of the same letter he says "Such Artifices cannot long delude the understanding of the People; &, without meaning an indecent Comparison I may venture to foretell, that the _Bible_ & _Junius_ will be read when the Commentaries of the Jesuits are forgotten. We supped at nine--Mr Carter tired and early in Bed.

After Supper I had a long conversation with Mrs Carter concerning Negroes in Virginia, & find that She esteems their value at no higher rate than I do. We both concluded, (& I am pretty certain that the conclusion is just) that if in Mr Carters, or in any Gentlemans Estate, all the Negroes should be sold, & the Money put to Interest in safe hands, & let the Lands which these Negroes now work lie wholly uncultivated, the bare Interest of the Price of the Negroes would be a much greater yearly income than what is now received from their working the Lands, making no allowance at all for the trouble & Risk of the Masters as to the Crops, & Negroes.--How much greater then must be the value of an Estate here if these poor enslaved Africans were all in their native desired Country, & in their Room industrious Tenants, who being born in freedom, by a laudable care, would not only inrich their Landlords, but would raise a hardy Offspring to be the Strength & the honour of the Colony.

_Teusday 5._

It is with difficulty I am able to collect the members of our School together for Business. Holidays have become habitual, & they seem unwilling to give them over. As the Negroes have this Day for a Holiday our Schollars thinks it hard that they should be compell'd to attend to Business. I summon them together however, and shall keep them to constant Study until the time of my setting away. Miss Priscilla this morning told me, of Miss Panton, a moving story: Last Sunday Evening after we left there She took a lonely Walk, & being asked why She chose to walk without a companion, she answered that she was thinking of Home & of her Friends, & indulging her fond Grief on account of their absence!--Such a feeling as this I have not been a stranger to, I therefore Sympathize with the poor young Girl. The Day agreeably pleasant--Towards Evening Miss _Corbin_ came over to pay us a visit After School I waited on the Ladies in the Dining-Room the conversation was on Fashions, which instantly introduced the oddity of Miss _Panton_. But Miss Corbin with a _Sneer_, & with ill-nature enough, swore She would not think of imitating such a thing as her!--O!--Tantam Animis cælestibus Iræ?--I spent the Evening in cheerful chat with the Ladies. I think I have not had a more sociable & unconstrained feeling since I left Home, & my forgiving Friends.

_Wednesday 6._

Ben is making a great Bustle about going to Philadelphia--He almost counts the Hours--We propose to go next Wednesday. But with composure, & Patience, yet with great Satisfaction I anticipate the near approaching Day. _Ben_ begs me to acquaint him with the manners of the People in regard to Religion, and he swears he can suit himself to any serious, or formal Visage--

Mrs _Carter_, & Miss _Corbin_, after Breakfast rode to Colonel Frank-Lee's--We dine alone. I informed the Colonel that I do not think it will be convenient for me to continue with him longer than one year--He discovered some dissattisfaction; I told him my reason & he assented--he honours me, by putting in me so much confidence as to commission me to find out and recommend to Him some young Gentleman to succeed me in the instruction of his Children--He flattered my vanity also by reading a Letter to me which I am to bear to Dr Witherspoon, the contents of it as follows--

"Robert _Carters_ compliments to Dr _Witherspoon_: He has the pleasure to acquaint Him that Mr Fithians Method of teaching, & his conduct are highly approved here; He is about to visit his friends in _New-Jersey_, & will bring these from Sir,

Your humble Servt"--

He informed me that he does indeed prefer a Tutor for his Children who has been educated upon the Continent, not on a supposition that such are better Schollars, or that they are of better principles, or of more agreeable Tempers; but only on account of pronunciation in the English Language, (as most of his Children are to be taught chiefly in this) in which he allows young Gentlemen educated in good Schools on the Continent, to excel the Scotch young Gentlemen, & indeed most of the English.--Evening came in & staid the Night Captain Blackwell.

_Thursday 7._

Breakfasted with us Miss _Corbin_. The Day pleasant--Mr Carter proposes to set away soon after Dinner--He seems, however, to prepare himself for his Journey with all the sedateness of a philosopher--Besides the Commands he gave me yesterday, he desires me to wait on Mr Willing[146] Merchant in Philadelphia & know if he will trade here for either Flour or Bread in any Quantity.--He has given Ben & me an Invitation to ride & spend this Evening with him at Colonel _Tayloe's_--We set out about three; Mr _Carter_ travels in a small, neat _Chair_, with two waiting Men--We rode across the Country which is now in full Bloom; in every field we saw Negroes planting Corn, or plowing, or hoeing; we arrived at the Colonels about five, Distance twelve miles. Here is an elegant Seat!--The House is about the Size of Mr. _Carters_, built with Stone, & finished curiously, & ornamented with various paintings, & rich Pictures. This Gentleman owns _Yorick_, who won the prize of 500£ last November, from Dr Floods Horse _Gift_--In the Dining-Room, besides many other fine Pieces, are twenty four of the most celebrated among the English Race-Horses, Drawn masterly, & set in elegant gilt Frames.--He has near the great House, two fine two story stone Houses, the one is used as a Kitchen, & the other, for a nursery, & Lodging Rooms--He has also a large well formed, beautiful Garden, as fine in every Respect as any I have seen in _Virginia_. In it stand four large beautiful Marble Statues--From this House there is a good prospect of the River _Rapahannock_, which opposite here is about two miles across; We can also from the chambers easily see the Town Hobbes-Hole & the Ships which lie there. I was introduced by Mr _Carter_ to the Colonel, to Miss Polly, & to Miss Kitty his Daughters--& to a Lady (Mrs Thornton,)[147] that happened there, & to a young Gentleman, Mr Corvin[148]--The young Ladies played several tunes for us, & in good Taste on the _Harpsichord_; We supp'd at nine; & had the usual Toasts.

[146] Thomas Willing (1731-1821) was associated with Robert Morris in the house of Willing and Morris. He was later president of the Bank of North America and the Bank of the United States.

[147] Mrs. Charlotte Belson Thornton was the widow of Colonel Presley Thornton (1722-1769) of Northumberland County. Mrs. Thornton had been born in England and she returned to the mother country with her children just prior to the outbreak of the Revolution. Her three sons served in the British forces during the War. At the conclusion of hostilities two of them, Presley and John Tayloe Thornton, returned to Virginia.

[148] Perhaps a member of the Corbin family. Elizabeth Tayloe, sister of Colonel John Tayloe, had married Richard Corbin of "Laneville," in King and Queen County.

_Fryday 8._

The Ladies before breakfast gave us several tunes on the Harpsichord--About ten Mr Carter set out for _Williamsburg_, to the general Court, which sits twice a year, each Time twenty four Days Sundays excluded--We had some agreeable Conversation this morning; Horses seem to be the Colonels favourite topic--He inquired of me however, where I was born; where educated; & if I am pleased with _Virginia_--He told me he saw Dr Witherspoon, & conversed with him an Evening last Fall, & is much pleased with his manner, & Qualities--He informed me that Dr _Morgan_[149] of Philadelphia breakfasted with him a few Days ago; he calls the Docter facetious, sensible, & prudent. The Colonel desired me to enquire for some Gentleman of undoubted ability to teach in a Family--I shall apply to Mr _Saml Leek_ junr[150] & if he declines I will look no further--Ben & I took our Leave about Eleven, and returned Home--The Day is cloudy and cold, the wind hard at North, & threatens Snow--This evening Ben met with a sad repulse; Mrs _Carter_ proposes going to Williamsburg soon, & says She must have his company! Poor Boy, he feels the Force of Disappointment! And I confess I am a little vexed--

[149] Dr. John Morgan was one of the founders and most eminent professors of the medical school at Philadelphia which is now a part of the University of Pennsylvania. Morgan later served as director-general of hospitals and physician-in-chief of the American army from 1775-1777.

[150] Samuel Leake, Jr., of Cohansie, New Jersey, was at this time a student at Princeton. Leake apparently did not accept the position in Mrs. Thornton's home.

_Saturday 9._

Mrs Carter gave Ben liberty to go with me as far as Anopolis, provided we set out soon, & accordingly we propose to set off to-morrow or Monday morning, I begin therefore to prepare for the Ride. The Day is rainy & cold, & I am in a vastly disagreeable Humour--

_Sunday 10._

Mrs _Carter_ yesterday, in the Character of a truely fond Mother, altered her mind concerning _Ben_ many Times and in several different manners: At first she agreed for him to go with me as far as Anopolis without a waiting Man; then She concluded he was not well and had better decline going entirely; towards Evening She gave him full liberty if he will take a Waiting-Man; & will not set away till Monday morning; This I urged not being pleased from the Begining with going on the Sabbath--I gave yesterday to the Shoemaker a Bit--& a Bit to the Wash woman; half a Bit to her little Girl; & half a Bit to _Nelson_ the Boy who waits on our School; the whole is 11½. This morning is extremely pleasant the Country full of Flowers, & the branches full of lovely singing Birds.--Before Breakfast, I saw a Ring of Negroes at the Stable, fighting Cocks, and in several parts of the plantation they are digging up their small Lots of ground allow'd by their Master for Potatoes, peas &c; All such work for themselves they constantly do on Sundays, as they are otherwise employed on every other Day. Sermon to Day, is at Ucomico, too far for my Horse immediately before his Journey--Neither Mrs _Carter_ nor any of the Family go--At Dinner I received a Letter from Mr _Lowe_, with his Testimonials from the College in Edinburg which I am to present to the Presbytery of Philadelphia and if it shall be accepted, I am to bring such Exercises as they may appoint--

_Monday 11._

Bens Mare lame; Nat must stay, Ben & I set out at eight Rode by Westmoreland Court-House, Mattox Church; fed at Mattox-Bridge,[151] Rode by round-hill Church,[152] to Tylors Ferry[153] by three o-Clock 36 Miles--passed over the Ferry 7 Miles Ferriage 6/2--At a small House in Virginia for a gallon of Corn 1/4.--At a small Tavern at the Ferry on the Maryland side Expence 9d rode from thence three Miles to Squire Lees who has the Naval office here--Spent the Evening with young Mr _Lee_, Miss Lee, Miss Booth, & Miss Washington--Toasts--I gave Miss Nancy Galloway--Between the Ferry & Mr Lees we passed through four gates.

[151] Mattox Bridge was some eighteen miles from Westmoreland Court House, and twenty-eight from "Nomini Hall."

[152] Round Hill Church was the "upper church of Washington Parish" and stood at the site of what is now the town of Tetotum.

[153] Tyler's Ferry in Westmoreland County, Virginia, was opposite Cedar Point on the Maryland side of the Potomac River.

_Teusday 12._

Up soon, expence to Boy 3d. Rode to Port Tobacco[154] 13 Miles good Road--Fine Hill near the town; betwen Mr Lees & Port Tobacco 13 Gates--This is a small Town of not more than twenty or twenty Houses mostly of one story--Expence for a gallon of Oats ... 8d, for bitters 4d, the Day fine--Rode thence to Piscataway;[155] the road good 15 Gates--ma[n]y fine streams of pure water--and many beautiful hills--This is a small Town of low Houses not more than two in it two Stories High; It lies however in a fine rich valey--Expence for Dinner, Wine & Oats 5/ ... from Piscataway we rode to upper Marlboroug[156] the road something hilly, we passed through 15 Gates, two elegant Seats Mr Wests, & Mr Diggs[157]--arrived at Marlborough[158] by six it is a pleasant levil spot, 16 Miles from Alexandria[159]--they have a Presbyterian Meeting House which Mr Hunt supplies--They have a latin School also here; & an elegant Ball-Room--Piscataway is seven miles from Alexandria. In bed by nine--

[154] Port Tobacco, Maryland.

[155] Piscataway, Maryland.

[156] Upper Marlborough, Maryland.

[157] The Digges family was a well known one in both Maryland and Virginia.

[158] Marlborough, Maryland.

[159] Alexandria, Virginia.

_Wednesday 13._

Up early, the morning fine. Expence here 4/11 Rode thence through a pleasant country four miles to a small Ferry over Patuxen,[160] Ferriage /6. then 12 Miles to South River three quarters of a Mile over Ferriage 6d then we rode thro a piny sandy road four miles to Anopolis 32 Gates--This is a pleasant situated Town: the Inhabitants appear gay & cheerful--I put up at the Coffee-House--An agreeable Woman keeps it Expence to a Barber for shaving & dressing _1/6_--For oats Coffee &c 3/1--To Boy /10. I roved through the Town til five then I entered into a Boat the wind South West & Sailed over the Bay for _Rock-Hall_[161] distance 25 miles--the Boats are extremely good, well built, & strongly manned, & indeed there is need, for the Bay is broad, & often boistrous; we arrived at Rock Hall by half after nine; I was very sick on the passage, & I never was sick before on the water--The ferriage here for a Man & Horse is 15/.--To the Ferry Men for a Quart of Rum 1/3. And for my footing never having crossed the ferry before I paid 1/. The whole expence of this Day is 1£ 8s 7d.

[160] Patuxent River.

[161] Rock Hall, Maryland.

_Thursday 14._

The morning fine. I have from this place a view of the broad Chesapeek--Expence here for Tea in the Evening, Oats Cordial &c 4/10, set away half after Six--To Boy /3d. Rode from Rock Hall over a delightful part of the country to Chester-Town 13 Miles[162]--this is a beautiful small Town on a River out of the Bay navigable for Ships. The Situation is low & I apprehend it is subject to summer Fevers--It has an elegant I may say grand Court-House, in which is the town Clock--Mr _Wall_[163] the Commedian, has been for several Evenings past exhibiting Lectures in Electricity, & I understand with some considerable applause. They have a lottery here on foot & to be drawn in May next for to assist them in building a market-House Town-Wharf &c.--I breakfast here, & feed, Expence 2/3. to Boy 2d--In this Town & the neighbouring Country rages at present a malignant, putrid Fever, & what is generally called the spotted Fever!--From chester Town I rode to George-Town, 16 miles--The Land levil, fertile, & vastly pleasant--In this Town I visited Mr _Voorhees_, an eminent Merchant here, & he seems to be a Gentleman of peculiar smartness Industry & Oconomy--The Fever I now mentioned, is also here, & the whooping-Cough is very general & malignant--I lodged with this Gentleman--We had Evening prayers--Since I left Cohansie I have not heard the like--This is a small Town, & lies on a fine River, which divides it from another small Town directly opposite call'd Frederick.[164]

[162] Chestertown, Maryland.

[163] Wall gave a lecture on electricity in Williamsburg, Virginia, the following year. He is doubtless identical with the comedian and "Mental Physician," Dr. Llewellyn Lechmere Wall, who was described as "of Orange County," North Carolina in 1797. He appeared in numerous comedies in Newbern that year. Cf. _Virginia Gazette_ (Pinckney, ed.), January 5, 1775; original playbill in Department of Research, Colonial Williamsburg, Inc., Williamsburg, Virginia.

[164] Frederick, Maryland.

_Fryday 15._

I rose early--After Breakfast I rode to see Miss _Rachel Stocktin_,[165] now Mrs _Ryley_; She lives on this River, about a mile higher up, in a large very elegant brick House; in considerable grandeur--Poor Girl She herself is much indisposed either of a bad Cold, (as She thinks) or of this epidemical Fever; Mrs _Ryley_ introduced me ceremoniously to Miss _Ryley_ her Husbands _Sister_, She has a small handsome Fortune, & is perhaps agreeable--I returned to Town, & dined with Mr _Voorhees_, & immediately after crossed over the Ferry for _Port-Penn_.[166] Expence at _George-Town_ for my Horse 2/3 to Boy 4d. I rode next to small village called _Warwick_,[167] a pitful place indeed--Expence here 1/11 Boy /2. then I rode on to Port-Penn, the Country beautiful, the Land apparently very rich, the Timber strait, & large; I entered Port-Penn just as the Sun went down, but could not prevail with the Ferry-Man to carry me over before the morning--In George-Town I was told the following distressing _News_: that Dr _Ward_, & my Aunt _Fithian_ of Cohansie are both Dead; that my Aunt died in a very sudden unusual manner!--That Miss Polly Bullock of Philadelphia is dying in a Consumption!--In the Evening I called in to see Mr _Steward_ an ancient, gray headed, wealthy Gentleman in _Port-Penn_, who, by some Weakness in his Back, has been unable to walk at all for four years, he is hearty, religious, cheerful, seemed much pleased, & thanked me often for calling to see him, & desired by me his kindest Compliments to Mr Hunters Family--I spend the Evening alone with quiet & content.--In Bed by nine--

[165] Stockton.

[166] Port Penn, Delaware.

[167] Warwick, Maryland.

_Saturday 16._

I rose early, & expected to pass soon over the Ferry--The wind moderate at North West but the boat is aground, & I must wait until eleven, when She is expected to float--I was much alarmed in the night, thinking I had in Maryland taken the putrid Fever; I lay sleepless, felt feverish, had pains in my Head--But I feel wholly relieved this morning. At twelve the Boat came--We run over--Expence at _Port-Penn_ 4/8. Ferriage 5/-. Once more through Gods Mercy in New-Jersey. The Favours of God our common Parent are innumerable, & great beyond our merit--I rod with Pleasure from Elsenborough to Greenwich; I stopt to see the forsaken Mrs Ward; She seems to be truely distress'd! I arrived by Sunset at my Uncles he also seems much afflicted, with his Loss--He informed me that many have Died in the Neighbourhood of Greenwich this winter. Dr Ward, Squire Millar, Mr Boy'd Merchant--Aunt Fithian, aunt Ware, Rachel Peck, Rachel Ware, David Mills, Mrs Mills &c. a very Mortal Winter!

_Sunday 17._

The morning vastly pleasant & Cohansie looks a delightsome as ever it used I went to meeting. How unlike _Virginia_, no rings of Beaux chatting before & after Sermon on Gallantry; no assembling in crowds after Service to dine & bargain; no cool, spiritless harangue from the Pulpit; Minister & people here seem in some small measure to reverence the Day, there neither do the one or the other--I spent the day at Home.

_Monday 18._

I took a tour over to Town before dinner to see old acquaintances The Neighbourhood looks in nothing altered Mr _Potter_ took home my Brother Amos with an intention if it shall suit to learn him the Shopkeeping business--Afternoon I rode to Mr Hunters--And in the Evening with Andrew to Deerfield, spent the Evening til ten at Mr Greens in company with the amiable Miss Beatty--Mrs Green is much indisposed, has lately had a daughter--The School here is at the present time larger than it has ever been; there are now seven viz. John Leek, Reading-Beatty,[168] James & John Ramsey, Stephen Ranney, Seeley Fithian, & Thomas Greenman--We rode to Mrs _Pecks_. Joseph since I left home, has married Mrs _Hannah_.

[168] A brother of Elizabeth Beatty.

_Teusday 19._

Rose by six. Breakfasted with Mrs _Peck_. Soon after we again visited Mr Green--I spent the Day most agreeably. Kind Heaven has indulg'd my wish;--In the Evening I went up & staid the Night at Mrs _Pecks_.

_Wednesday 20._

Soon after breakfast I rode home and visited several of my acquaintances--I had my Hair cut short--Feel myself much indisposed. Looked over, sorted & adjusted my Books.--

_Thursday 21_

Spent all this day in preparing for my approaching examination before the Revd Presbytery--I am to review Greek Testament--Moral & Natural Philosophy--Logic--Geography And if I have time I must look over the Lattin Classics.

_Fryday 22._

Rode to the Stage early for the Papers thence I went Mr Hunters where I met with that great master of music, Mr _Lyon_[169]--He sung at my request, & sing with his usual softness & accuracy--He is about publishing a new Book of Tunes which are to be cheifly of his own Composition--He has removed out of Halifax into the Northern part of New-England, but poor Man, since he left Cohansie he has felt the hardy arm of want!--

[169] James Lyon, a graduate of the College of New Jersey, had compiled and published a large collection of church music, _Urania, or a choice collection of Psalm-Tunes, Anthems and Hymns_.

I returned towards Evening but promised first to visit him again tomorrow afternoon--

_Saturday 23._

At home drawing off some of Mr Lyons Tunes, & revising my own Exercises--The morning pleasant but the weather dry. Afternoon according to appointment I visited Mr Lyon at Mr Hunters. He sings with great accuracy I sung with him many of his Tunes & had much Conversation on music, he is vastly fond of music & musical genius's We spent the Evening with great sattisfaction to me

_Sunday 24._

I left Mr Hunters Early I wrote a line to Miss Beatty, for a excuse for not seeing her yesterday Attended Sermon at Greenwich. I rode in the Evening to the Bridge to hear Mr Green, my old, much respected Tutor preach, he came & delivered himself admirably without making Use of Notes at all I staid the Night at Mr Seeleys, visited Mrs Ramsey, & Dr Elmer & spoke with many of my acquaintances--

_Monday 25._

I breakfasted with Mrs Ramsey, then rode to Mrs Boyds, & by Mr Ewing I was introduced to herself & her two Daughters Miss _Matty_ & Miss _Sally_--I had heard that this family is genteel, industrious & religious. I saw now & beleived it--Lately, by a sore stroke of providence Mr Boyd the Head has been remov'd by Death!--

Left Mrs Boyds & rode to Ephraim Seeleys junr--then about Eleven rode to Deerfield; dined with Mr Green. I had the pleasure to spend the afternoon and evening with Miss Beatty.

_Teusday 26._

Visited Mr Nathan Leek, he seems to be still loquacious, & historical--He gave me a long and full account of the present difference between Messrs _Hunter_, _Greenman_, & _Brown_,--He told me likewise the Beginning & continuation of the quarrel of the Magistrates-freeholders, & other officers about raising money by taxation for repairing Cohansie-Bridge--After Dinner, with Miss _Beatty_ I rode and visited Mrs Boyd--

_Wednesday 27._

John Peck agreed to succeed me at Mr Carters in Virginia I spoke to Mr Samuel Leek junr concerning Mr Taylors proposal;[170] he is doubtful about an answer

[170] Colonel John Tayloe.

Paid John Peck for postage of my Letter to him last Winter 4/. Bought a watch-seal 1/. Rode to Greenwich after Dinner.

_Thursday 28._

I waited on the Miss Boyds to day to Mr _Hollinsheads_, New England-Town. His Family are in good health; there I saw the amiable Miss _Debby Pratt_.--Mr _Hollinshead_ informed me that the Presbytery have been only a little pleased with the Examination of Messrs ---- probably mine will be worse! Returned to Mrs Boyds in the Evening

_Fryday 29._

I rode to Mr Green's after breakfast--Mr. Dicky Howel came in; we spent the afternoon & Evening with Mr Green & Miss Beatty; Mr Green is, to be sure, vastly sensible, very intelligible, dry, witty, satirical, yet good and exceeding agreeable.

_Saturday 30._

Breakfasted with the parson--Rode home soon after breakfast--proceeded in preparing for the near approaching examination--The latter part of this Day very stormy.

_Sunday May 1st 1774._

Very cool the wind violent at North West--I spent the morning in looking over the Greek-Testament--To day preached for us Mr _Aiken_. He seems to be much applauded by the People.

_Monday 2._

Very early I rode over to Mr Holinshead's at Miss Pratts request to carry her to Mr Hoshels to be ready to-morrow morning for the Stage--We rode to the Bridge & dined at Mrs Boyds--After dinner we rode to Mr Hoshels--Miss _Debby Pratt_ according to her general character, is in every measure what I have said somewhere before, _Genteel_, _modest_, _Religious_ & _cheerful_--

_Teusday 3._

I conducted Miss Pratt to the Stage this morning by five & took my leave--I immediately after returned to the Bridge, thence to Mr Holinsheads by eight o Clock--Returned home by twelve.

_Wednesday 4._

Last night & this morning fell a very considerable Snow, so much that I imagine had it not melted after it fell it would have been six inches deep! Afternoon I walked to Deerfield--Miss Beatty a little--thoughtful.

_Thursday 5._

At the Bridge before noon to agree with Mr Potter about taking my Brother Amos prentice--We put it off some Days--Expence for a Watch Key 9d. Last Night was very cold; I shall scarce be beleived if I say that I saw, handled, & measured Ice this morning two Inches thick!

_Fryday 6._

Still very cold. To Day is the fast before Sacrament. Mr Hunter gave us two Sermons. The leaves on the Trees are grown black, the Fruit must be past recovery, probably. the Flax too.

_Saturday 7._

I did several errands for myself in Greenwich--Before Noon Mr Patterson call'd to see me; He is shortly to be married to Miss Amy Ewing--She is a Girl of Reading, Taste, & Delicacy; has a good share of personal Beauty, open, sociable, & kind in her manner, & on the whole agreeable--Mr Paterson seemed always to me formal, has a peculiar, universal Fondness for the Fair is a great mathematician, a good English Scholar & Philosopher, & is frugal & industrious. I rode with Mr Patterson to Mr Hunters, he informed me many things concerning the new School or small Acadamy lately instituted at Wilmington, in which he is second Master. Evening I wrote a sentimental Letter to Miss _Beatty_.

_Sunday 8._

To day at Greenwich was administred, & I received the holy Sacrament--Grant, great God, that I may have been a worthy communicant! I dined with Mrs Ward. She speaks with great Respect, Affection, and Sincerity of her late worthy Partner.

_Monday 9._

Til Eleven I am busy in looking over Exercises for the approaching Presbytery. After Dinner I made Mrs Brewster a Visit. Mr Ben Peck in my opinion is rashly entering on an important matter; he is going to begin in a few Days the Study of Phisic under the direction of Dr Bowen; whose kowledge & Practice, by those who are in fact Judges in the Art seems to be wholly exploded. There is a Report that Mrs Brewster is in prospect of being married to a Gentleman from Maryland; She talks freely of it, says She can fancy him; that he is a man of Fortune, of character & to her agreeable--But there is one She regards more who has left her, however, without hope!--

_Teusday 10._

Yesterday, in a private lonely manner, at nine in the morning, were married Mr Patterson & Miss Amy Ewing. I wish them from my heart a long, unbroken, & strong friendship for each other, & mutual, unmixed happiness. After breakfast according to a previous appointment, I rode to Deerfield Dine at Mrs Pecks. I am ashamed that I may record here what does no honour to my old Aunt, I saw her with three Partners round a Table playing Cards at that vulgar game fit only for the meanest gamblers "all Fours"[171]--At three I visited Miss _Beatty_ that amiable Girl, I always see with pleasure, am happy where She is & feel uneasy & disturbed always when I must leave her. Since June in the year 1770 I have had an acquaintance with her--& since May in the year 1771 I have happily had an Intimacy. Her Goodness has at length indulged my importunate Solicitations & in her Society I hope to be happy--I spent the Evening til eleven with her, & in the most entertaining manner, Mr Howel & Mr John Peck call'd in a small Time.

[171] "All-fours," derived its name from the four chances involved, for each of which a point was scored. The game was later renamed "seven-up."

_Wednesday 11._

I rose a little after seven. It is not my custom to lie in bed so long, but I was with Lazy Boys, _Reading Beatty_, and _Stephen Ranney_. Mrs Green is better, but Miss _Beatty_ says she has the _Hipp_--Soon after breakfast I returned Home--Mrs Pecks Family Mr Howel, & Miss Beatty at the same time set out on a visit to Mr Hoshels. There came a report to Day that Mr Stephen Reeve Silver Smith of Philadelphia is broken up, & has left the City; disagreeable News this to his Relations here--There was an Ox killed this Day at Bridge-Town which weighed upwards of a thousand weight, supposed to be the largest ever kill'd in the County.

_Thursday 12._

I wrote a chronological Letter to Miss _Beatty_. Spent the Day at home. Feel pensive on leaving Cohansie.

_Fryday 13._

I rode before Dinner to Mr _Hunters_. Andrew is finishing his Exercises for the Presbytery--Mrs Hunter advised me to shew my Pieces to Mr _Hunter_ for correction I agreed--Four o Clock I rode to the Bridge, drank Tea with Mrs Boyd. They are Girls of Great prudence, & good breeding--

_Saturday 14._

After breakfast I wrote a private Letter to Laura, befor Dinner rode to Mr _Hunters_ gave him my Pieces; he examined them, made some small alterations, & advised me to present them to the Presbytery--Took my Leave of several Friends in Greenwich--

_Sunday 15._

I wrote a Letter to Dr Beatty, & a Letter to Charles Beatty[172] of the Junior Class at Nassau Hall--To Day is the yearly Meeting with the Baptists--Last Evening was the first thunder Gust we have had this Season, it was not however Severe.

[172] A brother of Elizabeth Beatty.

Mr James Ward was excommunicated this Day from our Church--

_Monday 16._

We set out for Philadelphia from Mr Hunters by five Expence by the way 3/6. In Town by five.

_Teusday 17._

Took lodgings at Mrs Cheesmans--Expence for a Register 3/9.--Spoke for a mourning Ring. Motto I. & H. ob: Feb: 1772.--

Met in Presbytery at eleven A. M.--Business of last Session looked over, at one adjourn'd til three--at three met. Mr Evans[173] pronounced his first exercise a Sermon length an hour--After him Mr Keith produced his length 44 Minutes. Afternoon I spent several hours with the Miss Sprouts

[173] Israel Evans had been graduated at Princeton in 1772, and had afterwards studied theology under Dr. Witherspoon there.

_Wednesday 18._

I passed my first examination before the Presbytery; after which I read my thesis & Sermon both which were accepted--In this examination I was questioned on my personal Religion, & on the Latin, & Greek Languages. I spent the evening at Mr Armitages.

_Thursday 19._

Waited on the Synod--Preparing to set out to-morrow. Visited several Ladies--Spent the afternoon agreeably with the Miss Holinsheads--Evening I visit Miss Bedford--Waited on Dr Witherspoon on Colonel Carters & on Mr Lowes account.

_Fryday 20._

Before noon I waited on the agreeable Miss Debby Pratt. I spoke with Miss Sally Boyd. Afternoon I took my Leave at Mr McCalla's, & Mrs Cheesemans where I lodge--At six with Miss _Ruth Webster_, her Sister _Alhe_ [Althea], & Betsy, & Polly Armitage I walked to a lovely Garden near the Hospital call'd Lebanon, drank some Mead, & had a most agreeable Ramble--At ten the same Evening I entered on Board the _Swallow_ Captain Balinger for Cohansie--

_Saturday 21._

I waked & found myself only a little below the Fort--The morning pleasant--the Wind a head--I wrote a Letter on Board to Johnny Peck to acquaint him with Dr Withespoons Opinion--I wrote also to Miss _Webster_. About five in the evening we anchored off _Marcus Hook_, we went on Shore; Drank a bowl of punch with Mr Andrew Ferguson who has lately moved here--He informed me that two young Gentlemen of Fashion & Substance in Town are making their addresses to _Laura_--She is worthy the Regard of the most worthy on Earth.

_Sunday 22._

I found myself this morning a few miles above Port Penn. Perfectly calm--I wrote a Letter this morning to Miss Beatty--The _Sea Nymph_ Captain Blewer came in Sight, Mr Cook & Mr Howel are passengers--About twelve a Breese sprung up at South--& with the Tide we entered our Creek by four, & I was at Home by five--Spent the evening in writing--

_Monday 23._

Busy in getting ready to set away. Wrote a Letter to Dr _Beatty_--& one to Miss _Pratt_. The morning warm. I took my leave of the People in town of my acquaintance & set out for Virginia a little after noon--Mr Donaldson is very ill--There are strange & rediculous reports concerning him--That he has sent since his illness to Mr Ewing to be married to Tempy Fithian--Left Home about two o Clock--at the Ferry by five. The Boat is on the other side--Half after five she set off, the wind fair over by half after six--We left the shore at Seven. The wind light at West North West before we were over the wind fell--I was obliged to take to the Oar--& pull like a Turk--The flood strong against us--I rowed thus a full hour--My poor hands, when I got ashore were sore enough--I was set ashore more than a mile above _Port Penn_--Had to ride down on high rotten Bank through the dark--Once I got mired--On the whole it has been the worst adventure I have had in my travels.--I reached the Tavern in Port Penn by half after Nine. Call'd for half a Gill of bitters to qualify my humours; & a dish of Tea to cheer me, & soon to Bed. Ferriage 5/.

_Teusday 24._

The morning pleasant & cool. Expence at _Port Penn_, 3/--Rode thence by the Trap five miles thence to middleton[174] five miles. Thence to Warwick four miles. Here I breakfasted. Expence for myself & Horse 1/7.--Thence I rode to George Town. Expence for oats 6d--Thence I rode to _New-Town_[175] fifteen Miles expence for--2/--For having my Coat altered in the Sleeves and Shoulders 2/. Expence for a pair of black worsted Stockings 6/.--Mr _Stephen Reeve_[176] is in George Town Working for Money Money to Gamble--This evening I feel more fatigued & dispirited than since I first went to Virginia--

[174] Middleton, Delaware.

[175] New Town, Maryland.

[176] Stephen Reeve was a Philadelphia silversmith.

_Wednesday 25._

Expence at Newtown 4/9. Rode befor Breakfast to Rock-Hall the morning rainy--The Day calm & (hard Disappointment) I must stay til to-morrow!--My Land-Lord invited me to a race about four miles off, & as the day grew better I went; the Purse was fifty Dollars. I was surprised to see that almost, I think quite one third of the of the People were in mourning--A discouraging aspect for one who has any intention to settle in this part of Maryland, but none to leave the World--Many who wore black & Scarfs I took notice swore most desperately!--Not Death the formidable King of terrors can frighten men from provoking God by Sin!--Afternoon I was troubled with a Tooth Ach--I returned about two--Laid down til six--Slept but little--A thousand things perplex me. I am unwilling to leave Home.--I have already overstaid my Time--I am vexed at having to continue here--I have left the Girl I love--I am keeping myself out of publick business--O ten thousand difficulties embarrass me!--Heavenly Father, to thee in trouble I fly, comfort, sustain, guide & uphold me--Evening Seven Gentlemen came in--They went to Cards--I to Bed--Troubled much with a Tooth Ach--

_Thursday 26._

Slept but little--Breakfasted--Set off at seven--four in company expence 26s/6. Arrived at Annopolis--Bought at Annopolis a pair of buckles 2/9. Expence ... 10d--Left Annapolis at five for Marlborough--Ferriage 6d--Rode to a point of Patuxen 22 Miles--Tooth-Ach still troubles me--In Bed by eleven, tired & discouraged!

_Fryday 27._

Expence at this little Town 2/9--Ferriage a full mile up the River Patuxen 1/. Rode from the River to upper Marlborough three miles thence without stoping to Piscataway 15 miles--Here I dined--My pain has wholly left me--Two young Ladies Daughters of the Landlady, rather gay & noisy than discreet, very forward in discourse, both in Love with Scotch Merchants & both willing to be talked to, gave me much Diversion--Expence here 3/4--Rode thence in the Evening to Port Tobacco 15 miles. staid here the night--For company all the night in my Room I had Bugs in every part of my Bed--& in the next Room several noisy Fellows playing at Billiards.

_Saturday 28._

Left Port Tobacco by six, rode to Mrs Laidlers Ferry. At Port Tobacco expence 3/10. 12 Miles Breakfasted with Mrs. Laidler Breakfast & Oats 1/7 Ferriage 6/. The broad beautiful Potowmack looks smooth & unbroken as tho' it was fettered in Ice: it is to where we land on the other Side eight miles a little down the River the passage over, in the best time of this loveliest month was vastly agreeable--From Tylers[177] in Virginia where I landed about twelve o-Clock I rode to Mattox Bridge eight miles; thence to Mattox Church six miles--Here I bought some Ears of corn for my Horse--Thence to Westmorland Court House 16 miles--Here is a Tavern I got a Bowl of Punch & fed 2/6--Thence I rode to Nomini Hall about Eeight in the Evening 10 miles--I found Mr & Mrs Carter at home sitting together--They received me with great welcome--_Ben_, _Bob_, Miss _Fanny_ & _Betsy_ came in to see me--The others in bed--sup'd on _Crabs_ & an elegant dish of Strawberries & cream--How natural, how agreeable, how majestic this place seems!

[177] Tyler's Ferry.

_Sunday 29._

I rose by half after six--Ben informed me that Bob has behaved vastly ill since I left him--He has reported several mischievous & false stories of his brother; That has been intimate in some bad families--That he has injured his own fathers Servants &c--The morning pleasant--I did not attend Church, Ben out of kindness kept me company at Home--I had however chosen to stay alone--The family is invited to dine with Mr Turburville--Mr & Mrs _Carter_, Miss Priscilla & Nancy with three Servants went from Church--_Ben_, _Bob_, Miss _Fanny_, _Betsy_ & _Harriot_ with two Servants cross'd the River--Miss _Sally_ with _Tasker_ & one Servant rode in a Chair--Dined with us Captain Dennis, of the Ship Peggy; Dr _Steptoe_; & Mr _Cunningham_. Politicks were the topic--and indeed the Gentlemen seemed warm--The Governor of this province dissolved the Assembly last week after they had made a resolve that a general & solemn fast be observed thro' this whole Colony, on Account of the melancholy aspect of American Affairs at present, to be kept the first day of June, which is next Wednesday, when the alarming Act of Parliament which has lately come over is to take place at Boston--Parson Smith accordingly gave it out at the Church to Day & it is to be observed--I only saw Miss Sally Panton, she did not dine with us--I am told She has an Estate in England of 50£ Sterling pr Annum, but for some unknown cause came over, probably the same as drew me from home--After dinner we had a Grand & agreeable Walk in & through the Gardens--There is great plenty of Strawberries, some Cherries, Goose berries &c--Drank Coffee at four, they are now too patriotic to use tea--Soon after we set out for Home--The young Ladies chose to walk and Cross the water with us--I am much more pleas'd with the Face of the Country since my return than I have ever been before--It is indeed delightsome!--

_Monday 30._

Our little beautiful Seminary collected They seem all glad to see me, & willing to enter on business--I am truely fond of the young growing beauties--Soon they will be the admiration of the world, & ornaments in their family--This morning I asked & received four Guineas of Mr Carter to satisfy Mr Taylor of whom I had a small Sum. Mr Randolph is yet here, & is recovered of the hurt I formerly mentioned--After Dinner my Toast was the amiable _Laura_--Evening called in & staid only a few minutes Captain Dennis, & Parson Gibbern--At Supper I had an agreeable conversation with Mr & Mrs Carter on the _Times manners_, &c.

_Teusday 31._

Very warm--I feel well reliev'd of the Fatigues of my ride--The lower Class of People here are in a tumult on the account of Reports from Boston, many of them expect to be press'd & compell'd to go and fight the Britains!--Evening I asked the Colonel if he proposes to observe the fast, & attend Sermon tomorrow; he answered that "No one must go from hence to Church, or observe the Fast at all"--By this, (for it is hard to know his opinion from any thing he declares) I conclude he is a courtier.--Last Night, & this evening the Colonel sup'd with us, which is more than he has done before since I have been in the Family--

_Wednesday June 1st 1774._

Cool & pleasant--I began my English Exegesis--or Thesis.

_Thursday 2._

I took out of the Colonels Library for Assistance in making my pieces Biblia-Sacra, & Mr Hammonds Exposition of the New Testament. I toasted Miss _Beatty_ to day in a Bumpper of old Medaira--Evening Mr Carter at the Harpsichord.

_Fryday 3._

The dancing School happens in course to day at Mr Washingtons--Mrs _Carter_ takes _Bob_ & _Nancy_ with her--Our School seems silent--Writing at my English Thesis--I put _Harry_ & _Bob_ this week to read Popes Homer but Homers inimitable fire cannot charm or move them!--Evening _Ben_ rode to the Dance--We were informed that in Queen-Anns in Maryland many die at present, of a Fever that follows a slight Ague!--I took a Ramble, in the evening, as usual, through the Garden.

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO JOHN PECK]

Nomini Hall June 3d. 1774. Virginia.

SIR.

I have the pleasure to inform you I arriv'd safe and had a pleasant ride; I expect to hear from you by every post but have received no letter yet--If you did not receive my letter dated "Delaware-River, on board the Swallow," this is to request you to apply immediately to Dr Witherspoon who promised me in Philadelphia that he would recommend you here; the reason of my demanding dispatch is, that Mr Carter proposes to write to England for a Tutor if he cannot be speedily satisfied of having one from the Northward--If I attempt to write news I must inform you that the Assembly of this province is dissolved on passing a resolve to keep the first day of June through the whole province a solemn fast, the resolve past however, and the day was kept--The frost of the 4th. of May was much more fatal here than to the Northward, for not only Garden produce, but Wheat and Rye in the upper parts of the province are blasted and the owners mow them down for fodder; and here the Woods look like winter!--I expect to hear from you several times this summer, I beg you will not disappoint me.

My compliments to acquaintances--

From, Sir, yours PHILIP V. FITHIAN

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO THE REVEREND ANDREW HUNTER]

Nomini-Hall, Virginia. June 3d. 1774.

REVD: & DEAR SIR.

It will not be wonderful if I inform you that this Colony is in great tumult and confusion. The general Voice is _Boston_. You will have heard before the reception of this, that the Governor dissolved the Assembly in this province on their making a resolve to keep the first day of June on which the Act of Parliament is to take place at Boston, (excepting the days of grace) a solemn fast. The people agree however in general to unite with the people of Boston and the other northern trading Cities, and by their example to influence all the Colonies, not to make any resistance to the Britains, but to keep themselves independant, and refuse to receive their comodities, and keep within themselves, their own more valuable comodities, because they are for the support of life--So stedfast are the people here that the Captain of a Ship belonging to an eminent house in London was yesterday refused any more Tobacco til' there is intelligence from the Northward--

The frost which happened the 4th. of May, was by far more severe and fatal here than either in Maryland, New-Jersey, or Pennsylvania--The expected produce of Gardens and Peaches, (which were some planters chief dependance) are not only almost wholly destroy'd, but in the upper parts of the province Wheat and Rye are so much cut off that the owners think it best to mow it down for fodder!--

I have the pleasure to inform you that I had a speedy and pleasant ride; found the family in good health; that it is a time of general health in the County--and that I am again agreeably settled to business--

Please to make my compliments to Mrs Hunter, Miss Nancy, Andrew, and to Uncles family--I am, sir

Your most obedient Most humble Servt: PHILIP V. FITHIAN

[JOURNAL]

_Saturday 4._

The day cool & agreeable--I kept the children in til twelve tho' with great difficulty; they were for asserting their liberty. & pleaded the custom of las winter--I finished a rough incorrect plan of my English Thesis, & laid it by for future examination--

After dinner I begun the Lecture, wrote an introduction--Towards evening I took my hat & a Sermon, & retired to a Shady Green where I rambled about til dusk committing my Sermon to memory--We have omitted Supper, & in its place substituted Coffee which we commonly take about seven in the evening--Ben, this Afternoon rode to Colonel Frank Lee's. The ground is very dry; The Frost of the fourth of May has been much more severe and fatal here than in the northern colonies--The peaches here, except on Farms lying near the Potowmack are wholly destroy'd, & these were the choisest expectation of some, who think Brandy their most valuable comodity!--And I am told that in Louden, & the other upper counties, (which indeed are the best for grain) Wheat & Rie are cut off, so intirely that the owners mow it down for fodder!--And in these lower Counties in many places the Woods appear like November, & the Leaves are actually dropping!--To be sure it is unusual & melancholy!--

_Sunday 5._

The weather cool & agreeable--Sermon is to Day at Ucomico, at the lower church, I choose therefore to stay in my Room--How pleasant is retirement! And how easy is it to enjoy it--This may seem strange, but it is true--I have but very few acquaintances, & they easily dispense with my Absence--I have an elegant inviting apartment for Study--I have plenty of valuable & entertaining Books--And I hav business of my own that requires my attention--At Home my Relations call me proud and morose if I do not visit them--My own private business often calls me off & unsettles my mind--There too lives the Girl who has subdued my heart!--All these put together, when they operate at once, are a strong incitement to divert me from Study. Yet I love Cohansie! And in spite of my resolution, when I am convinced that my situation is more advantageous here, yet I wish to be there--How exceedingly capricious is fancy! When I am Home I then seem willing to remove, for other places seem to be full as desirable--It is then Society which makes places seem agreeable or the Contrary--It can be nothing else--Adam when he had no troublesome painful thoughts within him; and had a flowery Paradise for his habitation & enjoyment, was not yet fully happy while he possessed it alone; much less can we his offspring, frail, & variable, enjoy much sattisfaction without intercourse with one another--I have just spoken in praise of Society & retirement; And I now observe we are of such a make that, if we be happy, these must alternately succeed each other--It is something like the opinion of _Socrates_ concerning pleasure & pain, that if we possess the one, we may expect it will not be long before we shall meet with the other--Towards evening At Mrs Carters request I waited on Miss _Priscilla_, _Nancy_, & _Fanny_ who rode on Horse-back for an airing--Wrote a Letter to the Revd Mr Andrew Hunter, Cohansie New Jersey--In the evening Ben returned full of news of _Boston_, that we must fight that the troops are arrived & impudent &c, &c.

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO ELIZABETH BEATTY]

Nominy-Hall Virginia June 5: 1774. TO LAURA.

I have the Pleasure, since you allow me the Honour of corresponding with you, to acquaint you that I had a speedy & delightsome Passage from Home to this Place: It was you know, in the best Time of the lovliest of Months.

The Delaware, the broad Chesapeak, & the beautiful Potowmack were mild & lovely as a handsome, Woman's Presence when her Mind is at Rest--But are fine Women, Laura, as easily thrown into Confusion & Tumult as they--?

I expect these, if you receive them at all, will find you at N--n. If they should, please to make my kind Respects to your Brother--& compliment him on his new Alliance.

I shall wish, very much, to see you at C--e in the Fall, but if it be inconvenient I do not ask you to pay any Manner of Regard, in this Case, to my Inclination. The Face of this Part of Virginia is now indeed beautiful. I wish often that you was here for a While to see, because I am unable to describe, the charming Landskips, & long delightsome Prospects of our winding River which we have from the high Hills! But especially in the Evening when I commonly (as it is the Custom of the Family) walk for half an hour through the Garden in Company generally with three brisk mischievous Girls you would I am certain, for you delight in Gardens, & love the Company of noisy, gay, & agreeable young Girls, be highly entertain'd.--And as for myself, if you was here, I should take these Walks & Arbours to be a verdant flowery Elysium!--I must not omit to thank you for your Letter of Feb: last; because a Line from you is rare & valuable as the Phenix of Arabia.

Write to me, best of Girls, the Moment you receive this, that I may know how, & where you be; & let me hear often from you this Summer.

You may rest assured of my Constancy in continuing a free & full Correspondence.

PHILIP V. FITHIAN.

[JOURNAL]

_Monday 6._

Mr _Carter_ rode to richmond court--At Dinner I had a long and useful conversation with Mrs Carter She told me openly & candidly the Several failings of her children, & indeed She knows them perfectly--In particular she knows not what to do with her perverse Son _Bob_--He abuses his Mama, Miss Sally, the children, Family, and is much given to slander. Poor unhappy youth, I fear he will come to an unhappy end! This afternoon I found it necessary to correct Bob severely for impertinence in School--Mr Carter at Court received his Invoice from London for this Spring, in which was a gold Seal for _Ben_ with a Coat of Arms price five Guineas!--

_Teusday 7._

The morning pleasant, cool & agreeable--I corrected Harry this morning for telling me a Lie--Stomachful & sullen as any youth--The day warm but very bearable--Breakfasted with us Mr Blain & Mr Warden, all the conversation is Politicks; But People seem moderate & yet settled in their determinations to stand out

_Wednesday 8._

The morning pleasant--Mr _Carter_ rode to the Ucomiko Ware-houses to examine in the Shipping some of his Tobacco--We have no Company. The day is very warm--A flaming sultry Sun, a dusty scorched Ground, Mr _Carter_ returned, the day being smoky introduced, at Coffee, a conversation on Philosophy, on Eclipses; the manner of viewing them; Thence to Telescopes, & the information which they afforded us of the Solar System; Whether the planets be actually inhabited &c.

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO SAMUEL FITHIAN]

Nomini Hall Virginia June 8th. 1774. SIR.

After I acquaint you that, by the kindness of providence I arrived safe and am in good health, I shall not neglect to inform you that the Virginians are warm and active in supporting the liberties of America; the first day of June throughout this Colony, by a resolve of the House of Burgesses, or Assembly of Representatives for the province was kept a solemn Fast, and kept religiously too, to invoke almighty God to assist our falling country, and save us from oppression and Tyranny--The ware-Houses are already hindring the Shipping Tobacco, and it is expected there will shortly be a general embargo laid on all exportable commodities--The people here wish for the union of all the Colonies, and for firm perseverance in what shall seem most conducive to the good of America, notwithstanding this Colony and Maryland will suffer vastly, because Tobacco is a comodity less saleable among ourselves than most of the produce of the Northern Colonies, and it is in these the staple--

I am seated once more to great sattisfaction in my business, the family and neighbourhood are well, but I propose and expect by the permission of providence to return home the latter end of October; in the mean time, I am,

Dear Unkle Your most obliged Nephew PHILIP V FITHIAN

P. S. Please to remember me to the family, &c.

[JOURNAL]

_Thursday 9._

The morning haizy, no Wind, & very warm--I wrote a Letter to Uncle _Samuel Fithian_--After Dinner Mr Carter set out for Williamsburg--by him I sent to the Post-office at _Hobbes-Hole_, My Letters to Mr _Hunter_, Uncle _Fithian_, Miss _Beatty_. & Mr _Peck_--After School in the evening I had an agreeable walk with Mrs _Carter_ in the Garden--

_Fryday 10._

Cool but exceeding dry--Writing at my Lecture. Mrs _Carter_ was to day sadly frighted with a Lizard, that lives under the House--After School, with Ben I wakked over to Mr Turburville's to gather Cheries, which are there in great plenty--Mrs _Carter_ in the evening after our return, gave me a Lecture for taking _Ben_ to _Annapolis_ when I went last Home without a waiting-Man--Wrote at my Lecture til eleven. Ben sleeps at the Great-House in the absence of his _Papa_.

_Saturday 11._

I was sitting in the Colonels Library I took a Catalogue of the whole of His Books--& he tells me he has left behind him at Williamsburg, with many other things 458 volumes besides Music & Pamphlets.[178]

[178] See this catalogue of Carter's library in Appendix, pp. 221-229.

It is with considerable Difficulty that I keep the Children in School til twelve o Clock as they used to go out all the last winter at Breakfast--_Bob_ especially is vastly vociferous on the Occasion--Our Bells for School & play-Hours are at present under good Regulations. The Children come in as soon as they rise and are Drest which is usually about seven--The Bell rings at eight for Breakfast--At nine it Rings for two purposes; for the Children to enter School, & for the Gardiners, Carpenters, & other workmen to come into Breakfast--At ten it Rings them to work. At twelve it rings for the School play hours--At two it rings for us to Dine, & the workmen--And the las[t] bell is at three for School & for the workmen to go to Labour--I dismiss them by my watch at half after Five.--After Dinner I rode alone to Mr Blains Store; bought a pen-knife, nine Jacket-Buttons, & a primmer for Miss _Harriot 3/_. It is alarming to observe how hard, & dusty the Country is; towards evening some clouds arose & looked promising in the West, but they bring no rain--No rain has fell here since the 24th of May, & then but a Scanty Shower, & most of the time since windy.

_Sunday 12._

_Ben_ & Mr _Randolph_ had a small wrangle about Horses: The Day is vastly hot, the wind small at West, clear & very Dry I choose therefore to stay at Home--I lent my Horse to _Ben_, & staid myself at Home to write my Lecture, Mrs _Carter_ the two Misses, & Ben went to Church, Mr Randolph went on Board Captain Blackwells Ship to dine--_Bob_ pleaded hard with me for Leave to go on Board the Ship, but I kept him at home with me--Evening I finished my Lecture & laid it by for future examination. Some Clouds & Lightning in the west but no rain.

Monday 13.

_Ben_ gave _Bob_, for some imprudent Language a drubbing this morning--About nine we had a Shower but soon over & of little use; be to God, however, that we have any--I begun, to day my Sermon for the Presbytery--The change in the weather since yesterday is remarkable. This afternoon is so cool that I should be glad of a winter suit--yesterday afternoon was so hot I could not be comfortably cool in a thin gown, with all the windows of my chamber up. Evening, John the waiting Man play'd, & the young Ladies spent the evening merrily in dancing--I staid til ten, saw them & Conversed with Mrs Carter.

_Teusday 14._

I added last night to my Bed-Clothes a Quilt, Blanket, & my own Clothes & lay under them all, none too warm--The children call'd for a Fire in the school-Room, & were so cold I was obliged to dismiss them before the Bell--I believe there is no Frost--Befor Breakfast, Mr _Stadley_ the musician came from Colonel _Taylors_ at _mount Airy_.

Miss Priscilla & Nancy attend his instructions. Mr Stadley shewed me some Verses he is carrying from Mr Washingtons to His Daughter they seem good and are as follow.

A Hymn for a dying Believer.

1st Happy Soul thy Days are ended, All thy mourning Days below, Go by Angel-Guards attended To the Sight of Jesus, go.

2d Waiting to recieve my Spirit, Lo thy Saviour stands above, Shews the purchase of his merit Reaches out the Crown of Love.

3d For the Joy he Sets before thee Bear a momentary pain, Die to live the Life of Glory Suffer, with thy Lord to reign.

Spent the evening very agreeably with Mrs Carter & Mr Stadley, we sat about a good Fire in the Dining-Room, and it seems as necessary & agreeable as in November or December.--

_Wednesday 15._

So cold that I ordered a Fire in the School-Room--Mr Stadley with us yet--I took out of the Library to read for entertainment the "Amusement of the _German Spa_; it is a well written piece--Designed entirely for Amusement Before dinner Mrs Taylor,[179] with her two Daughters Miss Polly, & Kitty came in a Chariot--_Bob_ was in a moment on Fire; He is deeply Smitten with Polly's Charms--beg'd me for Leave to go out of School & dress--I allow'd him, The Day was vastly windy & the drouth is alarming!--Close Attention for two weeks past has fatigued me so much, that yesterday, & to Day I have laid aside Study, & read only for Relaxation--I took a whim in my head & would not go to Dinner, my Head was not dress'd, & I was too lazy to change my clothes--Mrs Carter, however, in the evening lash'd me severely. I told her I was engaged in reading a pleasant Novel.--That I was not perfectly well--But She would not hear none, & said I was rude, & censurable--Mr Stadley spent the evening in playing several songs & Sonata's on the Harpsichord & violin--

[179] Mrs. Tayloe.

_Thursday 16._

Mr Stadley left us before Breakfast--Reading at the Amusement of _Spa_--Drew off some Tunes--

_Fryday 17._

Bob was missing last night I was at his Room at twelve o Clock he was absent--This morning I examined him, he told me he was at Mr Turburville's, but told me several palpable Lies--I gave him however severe correction--We had this morning about 5 o Clock a smart Gust of wind, Rain & Thunder, but soon over.

_Saturday 18._

_Ben_ not very well--At twelve _Bob_ teaz'd me for leave to go to a Cock-Fight & Horse-Race about two Miles off, I gave him Leave with his promising to be home by Sun Set.--Spent the Afternoon in my room writing--Towards evening 'Squire _Lee_ call'd in, & brought a late London News-Paper in which we are informed that another Act of Parliament has pass'd taking from the People of Boston all power of trying any Soldier, or Person whether for commiting any Crime; & obliging all such offenders to be sent home for legal Tryal--Heaven only knows where these tumults will End!--He informed us likewise that last Saturday in Richmond (our neighbour County) the people drest & burnt with great marks of Destestation the infamous Lord _North_--Mrs _Carter_, after the 'Squire left us quite astonished me in the Course of the evening. with her perfect acquaintance with the American Constitution--

_Sunday 19._

The day cool--Sermon is at Ucomico, so that we all stay at Home Mrs Carter was in the morning frightned thinking that several of the Negro-Girls in the Family are unwell with the Measles, but I believe it to be only a Frett of the Heat Ben is unwel; He has a sick Stomach; at Times aguish; complains of Pains in his Breast & Side; & in the morning Spits Blood. He keeps about however, but his fond Mama discovers great anxiety.--I spend the Day in my Room writing at my Sermon, & reading the plain & useful _Pictete_.

_Monday 20._

So cool that I sit with my Cloths buttoned, & am chilly. the children also complain of the cold; this must certainly be unwholesome weather--Breakfasted with us Mr _Cox_--Ben continues no better, he lays by Study to day & keeps in--I myself either conceit or in reality have a Fever & head-Ach to Day--Before twelve we had a moderate Shower no wind nor Thunder--Mrs _Carter_ wrote a note to Dr _Jones_ & Desired him to call & See _Ben_, towards evening he came; He thinks _Ben_ has only Symptoms of an Agu approaching--He prescribed some Physick--Drank Coffee with us, & went home about six--I lightens in the North.

_Teusday 21._

Harry is unwel, takes this morning Physick, and keeps his Room--Ben is in the same way--_Priscilla_ & Nancy are practising Musick, so that to Day we have only four in School--At five in the Evening, Ben, _Prissy_ & I rode out on Horse back for exercise; before we returned Captain _Dobby_, of the Ship _Susannah_ an agreeable, sensible, polite Gentleman came, & 'Squire _Lee_--The conversation, at Coffee was on American affairs, the 'Squire shew'd us one of Mr Dunlaps papers,[180] in which are accounts that the Northern Colonies are zealous & stedfast in resolutions to maintain their Liberties--We sat til eleven--

[180] John Dunlap had established the _Pennsylvania Packet_ in 1771.

_Wednesday 22._

Breakfasted with us Captain _Dobby_, & Mr Taylor, their conversation promiscuous--Clear & warm, not sultry, _Harry_ better & in School, but _Ben_ continues indisposed. I wrote to Day some at my Sermon--After School, with Mrs Carter & the young Ladies & _Bob_, I walked through the Garden--But I seem not suited in being confin'd wholly at Home, yet my stay is quite voluntary--

_Thursday 23._

Very warm all the morning--From twelve to two I was writing at my Sermon--While we were at dinner a very black cloud rose in the West: Mrs Carter, is fearful when it thunders, so that I did not leave the Room till it was over, about four, there was a strong Gale of wind, some thunder, & a refreshing Shower. At five with Mrs Carter & the young Ladies I took a walk; She shewed me from a high Hill several beautiful Prospects--I was diverted tho it was a little cruel, to see the Girls gather the Blossoms of some Prickly-Pears.

_Fryday 24._

Lat night we had a Gust of Rain & Thunder; very acceptable--To Day in course Mr Christians Dance happens here--He came before Breakfast--Miss _Jenny Washington_ came also, & Miss _Priscilla Hale_ while we were at Breakfast--Miss Washington is about seventeen; She has not a handsome Face, but is neat in her Dress, of an agreeable Size, & well proportioned, & has an easy winning Behaviour; She is not forward to begin a conversation, yet when spoken to She is extremely affable, without assuming any Girlish affectation, or pretending to be overcharg'd with Wit; She has but lately had oppertunity of Instruction in Dancing, yet She moves with propriety when she dances a _Minuet_ & without any _Flirts_ or vulgar _Capers_, when She dances a _Reel_ or _Country-Dance_: She plays well on the Harpsichord, & Spinet; understands the principles of Musick, & therefore performs her Tunes in perfect time, a Neglect of which always makes music intolerable, but it is a fault almost universal among [Illustration: formally dressed group]

young Ladies in the practice; She sings likewise to her instrument, has a strong, full voice, & a well-judging Ear; but most of the Virginia-Girls think it labour quite sufficient to thump the Keys of a Harpsichord into the air of a tune mechanically, & think it would be Slavery to submit to the Drudgery of acquiring Vocal Music; Her Dress is rich & well-chosen, but not tawdry, nor yet too plain; She appears to Day in a Chintz cotton Gown with an elegant blue Stamp, a Sky-Blue silk Quilt, spotted apron; Her Hair is a light Brown, it was crap'd up, with two Rolls at each Side, & on the top a small cap of beautiful Gawze and rich Lace, with an artificial Flower interwoven--Her person & carriage at a small distance resembles not a little my much respected _Laura_. But on close examination her Features are something masculine, those of _Laura_ are mild and delicate: Mr _Christien_ very politely requested me to open the Dance by stepping a Minuet with this amiable Girl, but I excused myself by assuring Him that I never was taught to Dance.--Miss Hale is about fourteen; a slim, puny silent Virgin; She has black Eyes, & black Hair, a good sett of Eye-Brows, which are esteem'd in Virginia essential to Beauty; She looks innocent of every human Failing, does not speak five Words in a Week, & I dare say from her Carriage that her Modesty is invincible; She is drest in a white Holland Gown, cotton Diaper quilt very fine, a Lawn apron, has her Hair crap'd up, & on it a small Tuft of Ribbon for a Cap She is but just innitiated into the School, and only hobbles yet Once I saw her standing; I rose immediately and begg'd her to accept my Chair; She answered most kindly, "Sir I thank you." that was all I could extract from this Wonder of the Sex for the two Days she stay'd, & I seemed to have an equal Share too in the Favours of her Conversation; so that I cannot be any way particular in describing the mental faculties of Miss _Hale_. it is sufficient to say that I think She is far removed from most of the foibles of Women--Some time after these came Colonel Lee's[181] Chariot with five young Misses--These five, with Miss Washington & Miss Hale & Miss Nancy Carter, & Bob are Mr Christiens Compliment of Scholars in this School except Miss Turburville who is just now up the country with an Uncle, where She is to Stay some time together with Miss Corbin. Miss Betsy Lee[182] is about thirteen; a tall slim genteel Girl; She is very far from Miss Hale's taciturnity, yet is by no means disagreeably forward; She dances extremely well, & is just begining to play the Spinet--She is drest in a neat shell Callico Gown, has very light Hair done up with a Feather, & her whole carriage is easy inoffensive, & graceful--The other Miss Lee's are small Towards evening came in George Lee, & Mr _Grubb_, an English Gentleman; the Company danced after candle-light a Minuet round, three Country Dances, several Reels, when we were Rung to Supper after Supper we sit til twelve drinking loyal Toasts--

[181] Colonel Richard Henry Lee of "Chantilly."

[182] This Betsey Lee was perhaps Elizabeth, the daughter of John Lee of Essex County, a nephew of President Thomas Lee.

_Saturday 25._

Ben & I slept til eight--we breakfasted at nine, soon after Christien collected his School and gave them a Lesson round--About ten the two Gentlemen left us. They quit Dancing about two--After Dinner Mrs _Carter_ & the young Ladies, with Mr _Christien_ Ben & Myself walked in the garden, & through the Pasture, There are several beautiful prospects of the green Bottoms, & of the River Nominy from the High hills--By Miss Washington I wrote a letter to Mr Lowe, acquainting him with what was done for him in the business he sent by me to Philadelphia. The Day is cool, & intirely agreeable & the Ground has been refreshed by a Shower or two lately--I am told that the people are already reaping not only Rye but Wheat in the Neighbourhood; certainly it is earlier than we reap to the Northward.--

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO JOHN LOWE]

Nomini Hall June 25th 1774. To Mr John Lowe. Bushfield.

SIR.

I should have waited on you immediately after my return from Philadelphia, to acquaint you with what was done in regard to the business you intrusted me with, and to return the certificate which I now send inclosed; but necessary business detain'd me for a few days at home, and when _Bob_ was at the Dance at Mr _Washingtons_ he informed me you proposed shortly to be here. As I expect to see you shortly I shall write nothing particular, but only inform you that your intention was considered and approved:

I am, Sir, Your humble Servt: PHILIP V FITHIAN

[JOURNAL]

_Sunday 26._

Mr _Smith_ to Day is out of the Parish so that we have no sermon--I shut up myself therefore in my chamber to reading--Eleven I am sent for to see Mr Lowe who is come--I invite him to my Room, where we sit til Dinner--He informed me of the Manner of Trials in Scotland, which Candidates undergo. It is similar & indeed almost the same as with our Presbytery Evening Mr Carter returned about seven o-Clock from Williamsburg; He has been unwell himself while there, & he informs us that many are indisposed in that City While we were at Coffee I was taken with a Sudden & unusual pain in my Breast, a sickness at my stomach, attended with a trembling and dizzy faintness; I retired to my Room immediately, laid myself down in bed but had a Fever most of the Night--

_Monday 27._

I feel myself perfectly reliev'd blessed be God who upholds my Life Mr _Carter_ says the people are reaping on the Road as he came. He opened & shewed me a curious Case of mathematical Instruments price ten Guineas; He shewed me _Bens Seal_ five Guineas--We have to day several plentiful Showers--Evening at Coffee the Colonel shew'd me a book of vocal Musick which he has just imported, it is a collection of psalm-Tunes, Hymns, & Anthems set in four parts for the Voice; He seems much taken with it & says we must learn & perform some of them in their several parts with our voices & with instruments.--Lightning in several parts of the Heaven Mrs _Carter_ is much afraid, & can never eat if a cloud is rising nor lie down to sleep.

_Teusday 28._

Warm this morning. Mr _Carter_ rode to Court. I wrote some at my sermon but it goes on slowly--_Ben_ is not perfectly well, he studies, however, at times a little, to day he makes Doctr _Jones_ a visit--The Day very hot; people I understand are reaping in this County--Evening we have in the West & North-West amazing Lightning--Mrs _Carter_ retired to her Chamber, where She always chooses to sit quite alone in bad Weather--

_Wednesday 29._

Writing at my Sermon--The day cool & agreeable. I was never so much confined as now, not even when I was at College, for I used to go with my sweet mates, as Virgil calls them, about the Fields, or to the Brooks to wash, & often ride to Trenton for exercise & pleasure--& sometimes to _Newington_ & spend an Afternoon with that dear girl _Laura_--Here in Virginia I have no Call out, people seem sociable & kind but I want Spirit to improve & relish Society Soon, however, soon, if I keep my Health, I shall be again at Liberty.

_Thursday 30._

The morning pleasant none too hot to be agreeable--My Charge seem rising slowly, & uniformly in their several Parts--Harry begun at Reduction & is now working Fellowship; he improves too in Writing. Bob began at Addition and is working Compound Division: he is the best writer in the School--Ben begun with reading Salust he is now reading Virgil & the Greek-Testament. He writes extremely bad--Priscilla began Addition & is working Division; She improves in writing, & reads tolerably--Nancy mends fast in writing, but reads carelessly thick & inaccurately.

--I mentioned to Day Mr _Peck_ to Mr _Carter_ He objected at first to his Age as rather too young for the Duty of a Tutor, he assented however & requested me to write him word that he is desired to come by the Time I shall leave Virginia--

_Fryday July 1. 1774._

I rose at six. The morning bearable Breakfasted with us 'Squire Lee.--About one came in Captain _Blackwell_, Mr _Grubb_, & _Lancelot Lee_. the two youngsters came suddenly into our Room, bold gay & noisy. We conversed with them till the Bell rung for Dinner, when we all repair'd to the dining-Room: Captain Blackwel is to sail in about ten Days for London. I gave the Children the afternoon for Recreation.

_Saturday 2._

Mr _Grubb_ called again about twelve with an intention to ride out to the Potowmack but there came on a Rain & kept us at Home--We spent the afternoon sociably in our Room. Miss _Nancy Carter_ last Night or this morning, in some whimsical freak, clipt off her Eye-Brows; She has a very good Skin; exceeding black hair, & black-well arched, full Eye-brows, which, as I said the other day are much esteemed in Virginia--She denies positively that She cut them herself, & swears some mischievous person has done it when She was sleeping. But I am inclined to think it is an experiment She has been making on herself to see how she can vary the looks of her face. It made me laugh when I saw it first, to think how early & how truely She copies Female absurdities.

Towards evening we rode out merely for exercise, & straggled at last to Mr _Simpsons_; near his house we saw two trees standing near each other both of which have lately been struck by Lightning & are torn to shivers in several parts--

Mr Grubb agreed to stay the night. we supt on Artichoks, & Huckleberries & Milk--The toasts, after Supper, were the King, Queen & Royal Family, the Governor & his family, & then young Ladies of our acquaintance--We were alone. Mr and Mrs Carter left us immediately, so that we spent the evening without restraint.

_Sunday 3._

We were all to go to Church to day, but we were prevented by a storm of thunder & Rain; the Ground is now sufficiently wetted--I have not heard a Sermon on Sunday since the fifteenth of May; a longer Vacancy from publick worship than I have ever had since my first remembrance. About ten an old Negro Man came with a complaint to Mr Carter of the Overseer that he does not allow him his Peck of corn a Week--The humble posture in which the old Fellow placed himself before he began moved me. We were sitting in the passage, he sat himself down on the Floor clasp'd his Hands together, with his face directly to Mr _Carter_, & then began his Narration--He seem'd healthy, but very old, he was well dress'd but complained bitterly--I cannot like this thing of allowing them no meat, & only a Peck of Corn & a Pint of Salt a Week, & yet requiring of them hard & constant Service. We have several Rains this day so that the Ground is sufficiently wetted--I spent the greater part of the day writing at my Sermon.

_Monday 4._

I begun to read the first Volume of Tristam-Shandy--He is droll in the account he gives us of his Birth & Family--We have several good showers to day, the weather is warm, funky, very damp, & I fear will not turn out long to be healthful. With us in Jersey wet Weather about this time not only is prejudicial to the Harvest, but is generally thought, & I believe almost never fails being a forerunner of Agues, Fall-Fevers, Fluxes, & our Horse-Distempers--Fearing these, any of which so far from Home, would be painful & expensive, I keep myself much at Home, contrary to the repeated & strong invitations of the youngsters--And indeed my Duty, seems to require my Presence pretty constantly; & I am forced to produce an Example for what I find it necessary to enforce on our Boys, in order to do it with some face, for they always call upon me for a Reason for every one of my precepts--It is now the Height of Harvest--There is at Mr Turburville's a young Lady, from the Isle-of Wight, Miss _Betsy Lee_,[183] a Sister of _George_ & _Lancelot Lee's_--It is proposed that Ben & I go this Evening to the Captain's & Invite her here--Accordingly after School we rode on our errand, We found besides Miss _Lee_--Mr _George Turburville_, his _Wife_, Mr _Grubb_, & _Lancelot Lee_--After the ceremony of Introduction, & our Congees were over, we took our seats in a cool passage where the Company were sitting; all the Company when we entered were laughing at Master _Lee_, who had been gathering Mulberries, & either through _carelessness_ or _Greediness_ had stained his ruffles--At any Rate they looked like a scarlet Clock in a Bunters stocking, both indilicate & impudent--The attention of the Company however being wholly taken up with Mr Lee, I had the opportunity, which I wanted, of examining the person of his Sister, without being interrupted either by the notice of others, or by my own timidity--Miss _Betsy Lee_, I am told is but lately entered her twenty sixth year; She is a well set maid, of a proper Height, neither high nor low--Her Aspect when she is sitting is masculine & dauntless; she sits very erect; places her feet with great propriety, her Hands She lays carelessly in her lap, & never moves them but when she has occasion to adjust some article of her dress, or to perform some exercise of the _Fan_--She has a full face, sanguine Complection, her Nose is rather protuberant than otherwise; Her Eyes are exactly such as _Homer_ atributes to the Goddess _Minerva_; & her Arms resemble those which the same Poet allows to _Juno_. When She has a Bonnet on & Walks, She is truely elegant; her carriage neat & graceful, & her presence soft & beautiful--Her hair is a dark Brown, which was crap'd up very high. & in it she had a Ribbon interwoven with an artificial Flower--At each of her ears dangled a brilliant Jewel; She was pinched up rather too near in a long pair of new fashioned Stays, which, I think, are a Nusance both to us & themselves--For the late importation of Stays which are said to be now most fashionable in London, are produced upwards so high that we can have scarce any view at all of the Ladies Snowy Bosoms; & on the contrary, they are extended downwards so low that whenever Ladies who wear them, either young or old, have occasion to walk, the motion necessary for Walking, must, I think, cause a disagreeable Friction of some part of the body against the lower Edge of the Stays which is hard & unyielding--I imputed the Flush which was visible in her Face to her being swathed up _Body_ & _Soul_ & _limbs_ together--She wore a light Chintz Gown, very fine, with a blue stamp; elegantly made, & which set well upon her--She wore a blue silk Quilt--In one word Her Dress was rich & fashionable--Her Behaviour such as I should expect to find in a Lady whose education had been conducted with some care & skill; and her person, abstracted from the embelishments of Dress & good Breeding, not much handsomer than the generality of Women--

[183] This Elizabeth Lee was the daughter of the late George Lee of "Mount Pleasant" and his first wife Judith Wormeley of "Rosegill" in Middlesex County. She died unmarried.

What made me desirous to see, & curious to reconnoitre this young Lady, was, a Sentence that was dropt yesterday by a respectable Member of our Family, intimating a Desire that I may, on seeing Miss Lee, after having known, by report, her faultless character, be so pleased with her person as to try to make her mine, & settle in this Province--That kind Body, who is for making me happy by settling me in Virginia, & connecting me with one of the best families in the Government, little knows how painful it would be if I was indeed compell'd by any accident of Fortune to spend the remainder of my Days in Virginia if is the pleasure of Providence that I am to continue for any length of time in the World--Strong, & sweet are the bands which tye us to our place of nativity; If it is but a beggarly Cottage, we seem not satisfied with the most elegant entertainment if we are totally seperated from it--But if a Princess should solicit me to accept, together with Herself, 50000£ a Year--I declare, with as great _pleasure_ as _truth_, that the esteem, & Fidelity which I possess for my dear, dear _Eliza_ would make me without reflection, evade & refuse the Proposal--Ben & I returned Home before dark--We had the 'Squire to drink Coffee with us--He brought us a Newspaper containing the debate, of the House of Commons concerning the Repeal of the Tea-duty.

_Teusday 5._

While we were at Breakfast came from Hobbes-Holes Mrs _Oakly_ a Woman who has acted as nurse for several of Mrs Carters Children with great credit--All the family speak of her with Love & regard--This day is very warm, but no rain--I gave all the Girls this day to chat with their old acquaintance--Tho' the weather is warm & very Damp we have here no Musquetoes; I have not seen one, since I came into the Province as I can now recollect which seems to me a little strange; for at Princeton in Jersey some warm evenings in July & August they are so numerous as to be troublesome, & that is more than twenty miles from Salt Water, this not more than three times as many _Rod_.--In the evening, among several other things Mr Carter informed me that he has on this plantation a Negro Man called Prince who is now unwell of a Strain--This Man, he swears, he would not sell for 500£ ready Cash--I was almost ready to say it is more Money than I would give for all he owns on his Estate--The evening is very pleasant I had an oppertunity on the Pavement before the Hall Door of shewing away on Astronomy to Mrs _Carter_, I lectured for half an hour on the Milky-Way, on several of the Stars, on Jupiter in particular, & on the Course of Comets--

In bed by half after ten as usual.

_Wednesday 6._

Ben seems pretty well recovered--We dined to day on the Fish call'd the Sheeps-Head, with Crabs--Twice every Week we have fine Fish, & every Day good Fruit for Dinner, caudled Apples, Hurtle-Berries with milk &c--Yes, says Mrs Carter at Supper, this hot weather takes away all my life; the small Lightning that we now have makes me uneasy & melancholy--I love to see her in such Distress--_Beauty_ & _Virtue_ when combined together & Strugling against Misfortune; O how such objects move, & awaken the most delicate sensations of our Souls--Call in Nancy to her Guitar, says the Colonel. In She minces slow & silent from her supper--She scratches her Instrument, after a long preparation, into the Air of "Water parted from the Sea." What, pray Miss Nancy, what bewitched you with a desire of clipping your Eye-Brows--The Genius of Woman shines forth in this little Girlish trick--Pray Mr _Fithian_, was you ever taught Singing? Yes Sir, I attended two years--Had you any instructions in particular for using the Shake[184]--I am giving Nancy some Lessons, but She is vastly indolent--Nancy, play over and sing the Funeral Hymn--Excuse me, Papa, I have lost the Verses--Happy Soul, thy Days are ended,--Go on--How steady & how sharp it lightens in the North too--Good Night.

[184] A trill, or rapid reiteration of two notes comprehending an interval not greater than one whole tone, nor less than a semitone.

_Thursday 7._

Yes Fanny may sit down to Breakfast--Where's Ben--The Weather is hot & Ben for enjoyment had stript himself naked--Of every thing but his shirt & Trowsers--Where's Ben--He is not very well, Madam,--This Day says the Colonel after having Prefac'd our Breakfast with a--"God bless us in what we are to recieve"--is our Rye yonder to be mown down; mown down thinks I, do they mow their Grain in Virginia--Yes two Negroes take naked Sythes & mow down the Grain; others are imploy'd in raking it into heaps, but much of it is left--Shall I help you, Mr Fithian, to a Dish of Coffee?--I choose a deep Plate, if you please, Ma'am, & Milk--Our Corn, Madam, in Jersey is inferior to yours in this Province--Or your Cooks, Sir, are less Skilful in managing it--Well, Nancy, I have tuned your Guitar; you are to practice to Day with Priscilla, who is to play the Harpsichord, till twelve o Clock; You can repeat the Verses of the Funeral Hymn?--I can Sir--What, Harry, do you hesitate at that plain Sum in Arithmetical Progression?--_Bob_, attend to your Business--When I am bedizen'd with these clamorous children, sometimes I silently exclaim--Once I was told, now I know I feel how irksome the Pedagoging Scheme is--Fanny--I say, Fanny, dont you hear me, Fanny, and Betsy, sit down--pray, Sir, must I multiply here by 32--Yes, thick-Scull--But Mr Fithian, I dont know how to divide by 5½--Look, Sir, do you see what Mouth's _Harry Willis_ is making?--I can say my Lesson--Buz, Buz--To divide by 5½ you must double both your Dividend & divi[sor]--Half after two we were rung to Dinner; poor _Tasker_, his Fever has continued high since yesterday afternoon, he lies quiet, and asks for nothing--If his Disorder does not abate to night, I shall give him in the morning a dose of "James's Powder"--Will you lend me Jack, he meant my Horse, says Mr Randolph, to ride tomorrow to Captain Cheltons; Yes Mr Randolph, I will oblige Jenny so far.

_Fryday 8._

I swear, says Bob, Harry belies me. I never told the Nurse that Harriot should stay in School all Day--It was Mama's order that so long as Mrs _Oakly_ the Nurse stays, Harriot is to go into School after Breakfast, & after Dinner, & say a lesson each time--I was passing through the Hall from Breakfast--The Nurse, a short Stump of a [wom]an, who blundered by mere accident, when she was young, out of the road in which Virgins commonly travel, & felt the difficulties of being a Mother, several years before She enjoyed the Pleasures of being a Wife--She call'd to me, & begg'd me to close the Quarrel; You shall have, said I, dear Madam, with the greatest Freedom my consent--Harriot shall be with you--At Breakfast--Where is Ben?--He breakfasts with the House-keeper Madam--At School--What a likeness there is in the manners of Boys; Bob, & Harry had skulk'd behind the writing-Table with their Slates on their Knees, & their Faces close together, just as I have done a thousand Times, in our little School-House in _Greenwich_--But once I was threshed confoundedly for a piece of such hidden play--_Tom Parks_ [blotted] asleep, poor Fellow he is now sleeping in the Dust;--Then he was fast asleep on a Bench, with his mouth open--I fill'd his mouth with Snuff!--He sprung up--Nature was in distress, & found all her Avenues too scanty at that time to clear out at once the tickling penetrating Powder--He snuffed--He coughed--He--He told the Master, & then I was tickled--Indeed he made my Feet beat time to his Lash---Says Bob to Harry, behind the Table, I wonder Mr _Fithian_ has not fallen in Love yet with some of our Nominy-Girls--Here he sits from Month to Month--(Not many Months longer said I to myself)--Mr _Marshal_[185] was always out; I suppose Mr _Fithian_ never thinks of Girls--Indeed says _Harry_, drawing his chair clos[e &] lowering his voice, I never in my Life saw a Man who thought so little of these things--Here Tom the Coachman came in with a wood Tarripin which he brought to be a resident in our Room to catch the Bugs & Cockroaches--

[185] James Marshall, Fithian's predecessor as tutor of the Carter children, had formerly been an usher at the College of William and Mary. Marshall had inherited a plantation in Orange County. The _Virginia Gazette_ of April 18, 1773 had announced the death of Marshall, at "Nomini Hall" and had corrected the error in its next issue.

Yes, Harry, & Bob, _Fithian_ is vulnerable by Cupids Arrows--I assure you, Boys, he is, Not by the Girls of Westmorland--O my dear Laura, I would not injure your friendly Spirit; So long as I breathe Heavens vital air I am unconditionally & wholly Yours--At Dinner, Mrs Carter call'd for the Chariot, Mrs Turburville will think me rude, unless I welcome her Home. I will take Priscilla this Afternoon & make her a visit--I saw in a moment that _Miss_ was better pleased with the notion of trotting off in the Carriage, than to be [blotted] up with Multiplication & Division--O yes, says Mrs _Oakly_, I know Dadda _Gumby_ at _Williamsburg_. I think you look as brisk, as hearty & as young now as you did ten years ago--_Gumby_--I & my old Woman, here Master, are the two oldest Negres in Mr _Carters_ Estate. Here we live, Master, on our worthy Landlords Bounty--The _Nurse_, _Betsy_, & _Harriot_ were at Gumby's House which stands about twenty Rod from the Garden--I was walking, with a Book in my Fist, musing & stumbling along--I saw them, I went up, & with a lower Bow than I should give to a Nurse, if Women were plenty, says I, pray Mrs _Oakly_ do you know Dadda Gumby? We stood chattering with the old African, or rather he stood chattering with us, relating one story after another, leaving some of his Narrations half untold, beginning others in the middle having entered into the true Spirit of Loquacity--Dennis, in the Height of a Story about his Grandfathers Uncle's harpooning a _Porpoise_ summoned me to Coffee--Mrs Oakly, will you walk?--Come Betsy--Where's Ben?--Says the Colonel has Ben r[e]tired from the World?--He rode out this Evening, Sir, about five o Clock for Exercise--Mrs Carter, Mr Carter, good Night--

_Saturday 9._

I was waked by _Sam_ the Barber thumping at my Door--I was dressed--In Powder too; for I propose to see & dine with Miss _Jenny Washington_ to Day. D--n the Bugs & Chinches, says _Ben_ rolling over on the Bed, & rubbing his Eyes, I have slept none for them--Mr Fithian, do you rest any o-Nights? Dont these cursed Bugs keep you awake?--No Sir; for you see I commonly sit & read til half after ten, or eleven--So that by the Time I lay my poor Skin & Bones on the Bed, I am so much fatigued with the tumultuous Business of the Day, & the Study of the Evening that my sleep the rest of the night is sound & unbroken-- Priscilla hangs her head a little this morning, She looks feverish, dispirited, sits on a low bench, with her Elbow in her Lap, & Leaning her head upon her hand, swings backwards and forwards, just as I have seen beautiful Quaker Girls when they are weeping at the frightful distortions & Grimaces of some deep-inspired _Father_. But _Priscilla_ & _Tasker_ are unwell--Fanny teizes me for a Picture, I must draw her a slip, she says, on Paper like the one I drew for Her the other Day with my finger in the Sand--I love the little careless Girl, & will oblige her--On the writing-Table in the School-Room I found this morning an old Book of Esops Fables done into English Verse; In the Margins of this Book up & Down Bob had in his scribbling Way recorded the Names of several young Ladies of Westmorland & Richmond Counties. I shall set them down, as I turned over the Leaves & found them--I do not insinuate, by writing this Story, the smallest reproach to either of the Ladies; I mention it solely to shew _Bob's_ Taste, & the Meditations of his heart when wholly alone. In the Life of Esop, page 23, at the Bottom of the Leaf his own Name is written at full length & in as elegant a hand as he is master of with a Dash below.

_Robert Bladen Carter._

He has in the same manner introduced it a few leaves further on, he has done this to be a kind of Preface for what is to follow; he has also very cleverly interspersed it with the Ladies, either that the Ladies Names should be a foil to set his off to advantage, or that his Name be a Foil to adorn the Ladies--In the Life of Woglog the great at the first page

Miss Lucy Carter of Sabine-Hall. Page 3d at the Bottom of the Leaf Miss Lettitia Turberville of Hickory Hill. Page 8. Miss Betsy Carter of Sabine-Hall. Page 9. Miss Priscilla Carter of Nomini-Hall--his Sister: Esops Fables Page 1st he writes the Name of the Girl he loves above all others Polly Tayloe the Lovely of Mount-Airy. Page 39th Miss Betsy Lee. Page 41. Miss Kitty Tayloe. Mount Airy. Page 43. Miss Lydia Pettit has d--m'd ugly Freckles in her Face, otherways She is handsome & tolerable-- Page 45. Miss Betsy Gaskins.[186] Page 47. Miss Sally Tayloe. Page 50. Miss Jenny Washington of Bushfield is very Pretty.

Then he Bolts in

Robert Carter. Page 57. Miss Polly Tolliver.[187] Page 59. Miss Steerman is a beautiful young Lady. Miss Jane Corbin. -- Aphia Fantleroy. -- -- Edwards. -- Betsy Jones -- Sally Panton.

[186] The Gaskins family lived in Northumberland County. Elizabeth Gaskins, daughter of Colonel Thomas Gaskins of that County married Edward Digges of "Bellfield" in York County in 1775.

[187] The Taliaferro family was a prominent one in Tidewater Virginia. While the name is pronounced "Tolliver," it is believed to be of Italian origin.

But this afternoon Mrs _Oakly_ is taken with a Fever; I suppose, She was out last evening without any thing on her head rather too late, when I saw her at Daddy Gumby's--

_Sunday 10._

A Sunday in Virginia dont seem to wear the same Dress as our Sundays to the Northward--Generally here by five o-Clock on Saturday every Face (especially the Negroes) looks festive & cheerful--All the lower class of People, & the Servants, & the Slaves, consider it as a Day of Pleasure & amusement, & spend it in such Diversions as they severally choose--The Gentlemen go to Church to be sure, but they make that itself a matter of convenience, & account the Church a useful weekly resort to do Business--I am told, for I have not yet been to Church since my Return, that all the Sermons are in the forensic Style, & on political Subjects. But I shall go to Church to Day--I am sorry that I may relate an accident which happened last night--By some accident; or by the carelessness of some Negroes Mr Turburville's Barn took fire and burnt Down--His loss is judged at 300£ which is something considerable for a Man who is with the greatest Anxiety turning every ear of Corn into Money--At Church Parson _Smith_ Read to the Congregation an Order Issued out lately by the Governor to elect Burgesses in the several Counties--He preached us a Sermon on Brotherly Love--Dined with us to Day Mr Parker,[188] a Lawyer of this County, & his Son, a young Man about 20 who is also licensed to plead Law--And Mr _Cunningham_--I am not very well to Day. I have pains in several parts of my Body--Mr _Lowe_ informed me that Colonel Washington is unwell of a sort of _Cholic_--

[188] Richard Parker (1729-1813) of "Lawfield" was a distinguished lawyer in Westmoreland County at this time.

_Monday 11._

Indeed says Mrs Carter at Breakfast a Fire this morning would be very pleasant--Yes says I, for I have had the look & feeling of November all the morning; My Room shut up, My Coat buttoned, & yet my Body cold Besides!--Mr Carter on this, advanced a strange Assertion, that there is not a single Person on this whole Continent, if this Change is as powerful through the Continent as it is here, who is not to day, in a greater or less Degree affected with a Fever!--My poor skinny Body, I know is in a prodigious Tumult; I impute it tho to my ride Yesterday to Church in the schorching Sun; & to drinking five or six Glasses of Wine extraordinary--_Priscilla_ & _Harriot_ are confined at Home of an eruptive Fever, some think it a Swine Pox at any Rate they are sick, & break out into Pustules--I am in such Ferment to Day that I cannot sit nor Walk, nor Write with any Stomach--I made out tho' with some Difficulty to finish a rough Draught of my Sermon, & laid by for future Perusal.

_Teusday 12._

Indeed I enjoy this fine cool weather, says Ben as he lay on his Back in the Bed rubbing his Eyes, & ears about half after six o-Clock; _Lancelot Lee_ had never I am sure, more sensible Pleasure in swallowing a well prepar'd Dinner--To be sure I have slept last Night with the sweetest composure in Spight of the Chinches, & in spight of my Disorder!--Get up, Lump of Indolence, said I to him; Get up & clap to _Virgil_ instead of lying there & boasting--Breakfasted with us Captain Guthrie, of a Small Schooner of _Norfolk_; & Mr Stadley the Musician--I love this good German, He used to teach in _New York_ & _Philadelphia_--He has much simplicity & goodness of heart--He performs extremely well--He is kind & sociable with me--Dined with us one--one--Mr--Mr--I forget his name--I know his trade tho': An Inspector--He is rather Dull, & seems unacquainted with company for when he would, at Table, drink our Health, he held the Glass of Porter fast with both his Hands, and then gave an insignificant nod to each one at the Table, in Hast, & with fear, & then drank like an Ox--The Good Inspector, at the second toast, after having seen a little our Manner "Gentlemen & Ladies (but there was none in Womans Cloathing at Table except Mrs Carter) The King"--I thought that during the Course of the Toasts, he was better pleased with the Liquor than with the manner in which he was at this Time obliged to use it--I made a b[e]gining of my Latin Thesis--"Cuinam Usui inservi: at Lex moralis sub Evangeliis." I made out to write thus much--Duabus hisce Propositionibus sequentibus simulatim Respondeo.--But if I wrote so much every Day for a twelve Month my Thesis will be short. The Day is pleasant, cool enough: & my disorder which has been for several days a growing painful _Dysentery_, seems to have subsided--

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO ELIZABETH BEATTY]

Nominy-Hall July 12. 1774.

TO LAURA.

The Summer is advancing briskly on, & bringing me with it every Day still nearer to you--And to my last Change--With you I am looking for the purest Happiness in Friendship & Love that I can derive from any thing below; And it will add to measure of Felicity if I can make the Woman I choose to protect & esteem think me worthy her Regard.

I said that the swift Advances of Summer are bringing me swiftly on to Death--In Virginia there are numberless Admonitions to this Reflection, but I suppress any farther Declaration. I wrote you by Mr ---- early last Month; & at the same Time I wrote to several of my Acquaintances: but if they lived in the Moon I could hear from them as often as I do now when only a Couple of Hundred Miles, or a little more, separates us: Would it not be more agreeable to me if they did--? For then I should every Night almost, see, at least, the Place of their Habitation, tho' we could have no Correspondence.

You are such a Pilgrim, Laura; I mean such a Rover, that I am at some Loss to know how to direct a Letter to you; & I want my Letters, while they are on their Passage to go through as few Hands as possible, not because I write any _Secrecy_, or _Scandal_, for you will not allow either the one or the other; but only that you may speedily receive & read the Little I do write, fresh from my Heart.

I suppose that Miss ---- has before now seen Cohansie--And cloyed of it too, no Doubt. She is a lively, sportful Soul. But that dear Place, which ingrosses so many of my Thoughts, has not Variety enough to entertain her long--You yourself, who are not always soaring on Follie's Wing, through the Regions of Vanity & Nonsense, sometimes find the Country dull--But Miss ---- does not find Satisfaction in the City; it is plain then since that young Lady cannot find Contentment either in City or Country, that She cannot be happy at all.

Merciful, merciful Heaven! O grant me what I am trying hard to obtain; grant that my Inclinations be all duely bended to a perfect Satisfaction with my Lot here--! With such a Temper I shall be at Rest, be happy, if I continue here in Virginia; Or I shall be happy if I remove into new Jersey; But, must I declare it, Laura, that if I am destitute of this, I should be wretched, tho' your Friend & Companion--I am,

Laura, thine PHILIP. V. FITHIAN.

[JOURNAL]

_Wednesday 13._

I drew off this morning for Dadda _Gumby_ a List of his Children, & their respective ages--He himself is 94--For this office I had as many _Thanks_, As I have had _blessings_ before now from a Beggar for Sixpence--Thank you, thank you, thank you Master, was the language of the old Greyheaded pair.--Call on us at any time, you shall have _Eggs_, _Apples_, _Potatoes_--You shall have every thing we can get for you--Master!--In this Torrent of Expressions of Gratitude I was rung to Breakfast; I bow'd to the venerable old Negroes, thank'd them in my Turn for their Offers, & left them--

Indeed, said the Colonel at Breakfast, cool as it was last Night, I kept my Window up the whole night--I am not fond of your hot a dust Air--Was yours up Mr Fithian no truly; so long as I can breath without panting I am for keeping my Window down, & my Room close on summer nights; especially here in Virginia, Madam, where the Dews are so heavy, and so dangerous--The Postilion keeps a fox at the Stable & I am often much diverted with his Cunning Tricks. The other Day, Mrs Carter was lying in the long room among the Books on the Couch; In jumps Reynard, through a broken Pane of Glass, & begins to frisk & hue about the Room like a Bedlam--How is Nurse, pray, says the Colonel at Dinner? She has her Ague & Fever again to Day, Sir--This is a fine Sheeps-Head, Mr Stadly shall I help you?--Or would you prefer a _Bass_ or a _Perch_?--Or perhaps you will rather help yourself to some picked _Crab_--It is all extremely fine, Sir, I'll help myself--Well says the Colonel when we had almost finished our Dinner with a Glass of sparkling Porter on the Table before him, we have but fasted to Day; here stands a fine Ham, & a Shoulder of excellent Mutton yet untouched--At least, says the merry, good-hearted Man, we have kept _Lent_--Yesterday evening I scribled a little for _Laura_, & to Day I drank her Health from my Heart in generous Medaira--Yes, best of Women, when you are the Toast I drink wine with Pleasure--

_Thursday 14._

To Day is the election of Burgesses in Richmond the neighbouring County--Come, Fithian, will you go? My old objection recurs; I am too busy--I met this morning in Wingates Arithmetic, with the following merry Problem--"To discover a Number which any one shall have in his mind, without requiring him to reveal any part of that or any Number whatsoever"--After any one has thought upon any number at Pleasure; bid him double it, & to that double bid him add any such even number as you please to assign: Then from the Sum of that Addition let him reject one half, & reserve the other half; Lastly, from this half bid him subtract the Number which he first thought upon; then you may boldly tell him what Number remains in his mind after that Subtraction is made, for it will be always half the Number which you assigned him to add--A Reason for the Rule is added. "Because, if to the double of any number (which number for Distinction sake I call the first) a second number be added, the half of the Sum must necessarily consist of the said first number, & half the Second: Therefore if from the said half sum the first Number be subtracted, the remainder must of necessity be half the second Number which was added--Mr Inspector dined with us again to day--We had after Dinner, _Lime Punch_ & _Madaira_: but he chose & had a Bowl of _Grogg_--You are a mean Puppy, a treacherous, ungenerous Scoundrel, says _Bob_, to Harry just as I entered the School after Dinner--you told Mr _Lowe_, you did more, you published in Mr Washingtons Family that Mr _Fithian_ horsed me for Staying out all night--That he call'd in John the Waiter to help him--& that you was sent to cut & bring in Whips--After School with Ben I rode out the Day is warm, & the Ground grows to be very dry--I was not a little Surprized to see Corn out in Tassel--But the Tobacco looks dismal, it is all poor, much of it is dead with the drouth; I think, however, that the Season is ten days or two Weeks earlier here than in New Jersey.--

Mr Stadly, left us to Day. I love that Man, he is gone to Colonel Taylors[189]--

[189] Colonel John Tayloe.

_Fryday 15._

I got up a little before six & as it is very warm, I threw up the window to enjoy the Morning's fine salubrious Air--I saw a _Lady_--She was walking to the _Poplars_--She appeared small but walked genteel--She walked slow & looked on the ground--Her Dress look'd to be extremely good, but was only thrown carelessly on; She had a Silk shade thrown over her shoulders in which her hands were muffled--I had the Idea in a moment of a Woman in some kind of Difficulty--But how can such a woman have been to Mr Carters & done Business, who was not there last night.?--It was Mrs _Oakly_--She has the Ague and was walking for the benefit of the _Morning Air_.--We are rid of two _troubles_ from this morning till Monday: for _Bob_ & _Nancy_ are gone to the Dancing School--They dance at Colonel Lee's--Two great troubles, indeed, for this hot weather I can hardly keep them in the Room, much less to any useful business--Please to excuse me from Dinner, says Mrs Carter, & retired to her Chamber--There appears in the North a black Cloud, where it Thunders--Send us a Shower in Mercy, bountiful Heaven, tho' our Sins deserve thy Frowns & Judgments.--The Cloud thickens. it rises--At last there comes a kind Shower--After the Rain about six Ben & I took a Ride for exercise, the Corn litterally looks glad--I have made a party, Says Mr Carter at Coffee, for a Trip by Water to morrow, Mr Fithian will you be one?--With all my heart Sir, if it is agreeable--We are to ride then to Mr _Atwels_ says he, & there enter my new Barge; with her we will go down the River Machodockin to Potowmack then up the Potowmack & enter the River Nomini, & up that River Home--

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO JOHN PECK]

Nomini-Hall. July 15th. 1774.

SIR.

I have communicated your intention to Mr _Carter_; he begs you will by no Means disappoint him.

I wrote you a letter by the post early in June possibly it was lost, for either letters are lost, or you and the rest of my friends in _Jersey_ use me vastly ill, for I have not received a line since I have been in Virginia--You had better go into the school and acquaint yourself with the method of teaching, and procure some copper plate copies: I am by the goodness of heaven very well; I hope you will remember me to all friends at Princeton to relations and friends at Cohansie; desire _Charles_ to carry my _Homer_ to cohansie when he goes down in the vacancy; tell him I shall be at home if no unforeseen accident prevents by the last of october.

You had better provide yourself with recommendations from several, especially from Doctor Witherspoon, something of the kind will not be a hindrance, but may possibly at some J[u]ncture be of eminent Service.

I am, Sir, Yours, PHILIP V FITHIAN

Mr John Peck. Nassau-Hall

[JOURNAL]

_Saturday 16._

The _Colonel_, _Ben_, & _myself_ rode on Horse-back about Six to Mr Atwels; four lusty, hearty Men had gone on foot before who were Oarsmen: Here we were to enter a Boat never Rowed before, & proceed down the River Machodock to Mr _Carters_ Store-Houses which are now building near the mouth of that River--But I am going to venture upon a Description of a Scene which I am sure I shall not do Justice to--A Scetch of three Rivers--Their Beautiful Banks--Several Gentlemens Seats--Their commodious harbours--In particular that near which Mr _Carter_ is erecting Store-Houses--The whole is to be an account of our peregrination this 16th burning day of July 1774--With several remarks.--What a Crack of Thunder there was! I must run to the Window & view the Cloud--It is a small white remote Cloud in the North-West. I am summoned to Coffee--Mrs _Carter_ gave us a Dish round--Amazing what a Flash of Lightning! how fast it rises!--Ben child, says the lovely Woman, take my Seat & fill out the Coffee. Please to excuse me; & She then retired up chamber--We finished our Coffee--The Gust came up, & to be sure I have seldom seen one more terable! Long, bright, forked bolts seemed to dart incessantly through the broken parts of the Cloud; some of them would appear perpendicular others horizontal, and some would split, & in a Moment seem to bespangle, with sparks of Fire, the whole Front of the Cloud! And these were continually succeeded with alarming alternate Cracks of Thunder!--It brings, however to the scorched Earth a plenteous needful Supply--By nine it is past, & opens a serene beautiful western Sky--I resume my Description.

I have said, that we rode on Horseback to Mr _Atwels_ where we were to go on board & have our Horses sent back. This House is called six Miles from the mouth of Machodock--It stands on the Bank of the River; The Boat that carried us is built for the purpose of carrying the young Ladies and others of the Family to Nominy Church--It is a light neat _Battoe_ elegantly painted & is rowed with four Oars--We went on board; The Sun beamed down upon us, but we had each an Umberella--The River is here about Gunshot over; the Banks are pretty low, but hard to the very Water--I was delighted to see Corn & Tobacco growing, or Cattle & Sheep feeding along the Brink of this River on both Sides, or else Groves of Pines, Savins & Oaks growing to the side of the Bank--We passed by an elegant small Seat of Mr _Beal_;[190] it was small, but it was neat--We arrived at Mr _Carters Store-Houses_ in 50 minutes, they are 5 Miles from Mr _Atwels_, & one from Potowmack--These Houses are building for the reception of Iron, Bread, Flour &c. there are two Houses each 46 Feet long by 20.--They stand at the Bottom of a Bay which is a safe & spacious harbour--Here we Breakfasted at ten.--At twelve we pushed of from thence & rowed by parson Smiths Glebe & in sight of his house in to the broad beautiful Potowmack--: I think it is here ten Miles or twelve over has a fine high hard Bank; no Marshes--but Cornfields, Trees, or Grass!--Up the lovely Water we were rowed six Miles in to the Mouth of Nominy--We went on Board a small Schooner from _Norfolk_ which lay in Nominy-Bay--Mr Carter is loading her with Flour & Iron--Here we were in Sight of Stratford, Colonel Lee's, Seat.--We were in Sight too of Captain Cheltons--And of Colonel Washingtons Seat at Bushfield--From the Schooner we Rowed up Nominy-River--I have forgot to remark before that from the time of our setting out as we were going down Machodock, & along the Potowmack-Shore, & especially as we were rowing up Nominy we saw Fishermen in great numbers in Canoes, & almost constantly taking in Fish Bass & Perch--This was beautiful!--The entrance of Nomini is very shoal, & stony, the Channel is very narrow, & lies close to the Easternmost Side--On the edges of these shoals, or in Holes between the Rocks is plenty of Fish--The Banks of Nominy are steep and vastly high, twenty & thirty Feet, & in some places almost perpendicular; The Course of the River is crooked, & the prospects on each Side vastly romantic & diversified--We arrived at the Granary near Nominy-Hall about six--I went to my room to take off an Account of the expedition--When the Gust soon hindred.

[190] The Beales were a prominent family in Richmond and Westmoreland counties. Several members of this family had intermarried with the Carters. Robert Carter's uncle, Landon Carter of "Sabine Hall," had taken Elizabeth Beale as his third wife in 1746. Landon's son, Robert Wormeley Carter, married Winifred Beale, and Robert Wormeley's sister, Judith, married Reuben Beale.

_Sunday 17._

The Air this morning serene & cool--I do not go to Church. At last I have finished my Presbyterial pieces roughly they are to be reviewed & corrected; In the mean Time tho', (as Workman say) I must blow a little, for to be sure I am fatigued--Mr _Fithian_, says Mr _Carter_ at Dinner with a serious Air, you see we cannot with conveniency attend _Ucomico_ Church. If I should propose having prayrs read in the great Room on that vacant Day would you encourage & assist me?--I answered him that I was heartily agreed--You then, Sir, says he, may read the _prayrs_--& I will read the _Lessons_. The Afternoon extremely hot I could not leave my Room til the Sun had hid his flaming Place behind the Earth--Then I walked through the Garden--The whole Family seem to be now out Black, White, Male, Female, all enjoying the cool evening--

_Monday 18._

Pray Sir let all our Windows be put up, says Bob the Moment he came down from his chamber, & let the Doors be set open or we shall faint with Heat--Such a night I never spent before--The Heat says he, and these cursed Chinches made me intirely restless--I scribbled over a Letter to Mr _John Peck_, & one to Miss ... pray Mr Fithian says Nancy draw me a picture such as you drew for Fanny last Week--At two, just before we sit Down to Dinner a Cloud appear'd in the West--Mrs Carter excused herself from Dinner; while we were dining the Cloud came over, very moderate tho' with plenty of Rain--It is now, says Mrs Carter at Coffee, cool enough, a fine fair evening, a Northerly breeze & lovely evening--Mrs Oakly came into my Room this evening--It was to take her leave; she is to leave us early tomorrow morning--Good night, said I to the little Woman, I wish you a safe passage over the Rappahannock, & a pleasant journey home--I drew off as well as I could a rough plan of Nominy-Hall for Nancy.

_Teusday 19._

Nurse left us early this morning postilion Nat. carried her in a chair to the Ferry--The Day is fine cool enough--After School in the evening I rode out to a Corn-field, about a Mile & a half off, where I usually go for exercise, the Corn is beginning pretty generally to tassel, & I saw one hill in Silk, and in Blossom--To day I put _Harry_ into decimal Arithmetic--

_Wednesday 20._

Shut the Door, _Harriot_, says _Fanny_ I I'm so cold I shake--indeed the morning is cool enough to sit with December clothes on!--I spent the little time I have for myself to Day in forming my Latin _Exegesis_--Mr _Taylor_ the head Overseer Dined with us--At _Coffee_ The Colonel & myself entered somehow into Dispute upon the advantage in working an Oar--He asserted & tried to prove that the advantage lies in having the Oar longer from the _Thole-pin_ or where it lies on the Boat to the water, than from the _Thole-pin_ to the Rowers hand in a mathematical sense; He allow'd the Water to be the Fulcrum or Prop, & the Boat to be the weight, & the Rower to be a secondary Power--But the resistance of the Water to the Oar he call'd the chief & primary Power--

_Thursday 21._

Lazy Fellows! _Ben_, _Bob_, _Harry_, & _Myself_ all this Morning slept til near seven!--It was a sleepy Morning tho', for the Girls to give us countenance slept too--My Leisure time to Day is spent in forming my Latin Exegesis--Only just before the Sun went Down _Ben_ & I had our Horses & rode to our accustomed Resort the Corn-field, now many of the Hills are in Silk--We returned to Coffee--The Day has been very warm; the evening is light & pleasant, &, Thank, to our common, & bountiful Preserver, I am in good Health--

_Fryday 22._

My Exegesis goes on lustily; I have finished three pages--Indeed Sir, says _Harry_ I cannot reduce 7s 6d into the decimal of a Pound Sterling--you must reduce 7s & 6d to pence; for a numerator; then you must reduce a Pound Sterling to Pence for a Denominator; this Numerator you divide by the denominator & the Quotient will be the Decimal sought--Well _Ben_ you & Mr _Fithian_ are invited by Mr Turberville, to a Fish feast to-morrow, said Mr Carter when we entered the Hall to Dinner--I am uncertain whether my Latinitas will not be a Shackle too heavy to allow me to favour his kind invitation.

_Saturday 23._

_Priscilla_, & _Fanny_, each presented me with a fine Jessamine Nosegay this morning--At eight I dismissed the School: _Ben_, _Bob_, & _Harry_ go to the _Fish-Feast_, I to making latin--While we were Dining a black turbulent Cloud came over from the West (I believe the Boys will commend my choice now) It rained, it Thundered hard, & continued exceeding stormy til after six in the Evening; I spent the Afternoon however in Quiet & to advantage--I am more & more pleased with my Situation. the Time draws nigh when I must enter on a new, & perhaps less agreable exercise--There were many at the River; the Boys tell me, among others Miss _Betsy Lee_--I do not, however, repent my having staid at Home--The Colonel shewed me some Powder which was made in _Frederick_ in this Province--It seems good--He charged a _Pistol_, it fired quick & strong--

_Sunday 24._

I lazy slept til seven--The Boys seem sick of their yesterdays Voyage--I rode to Nomini-Church--The Parson invited me home but we have company--Mr _Turberville_, _Mr Cunningham_, _George_ & _Lancelot Lee_ dined with us--After the ordinary Toasts we were call'd on to Toast Ladies: I gave Miss _Jenny Washington_--The Lee's came over to our School-Room I swear says George, there is no Devil!--There is no Devil, I swear!--He went on in such an impious, & at the same time whimsical & foolish manner, that I left the Room, and went over to Mr & Mrs Carter, with whom nothing is heard indecent or profane--After the Company were gone as we were walking near the Poplar Avenue, says Mrs Carter how sweet, & pure the Air is; how much the weather resembles September!--Indeed I think it feels like the fever & Ague!--_Bob_ in the Evening brought me Colonel Taylors[191] compliments, who begs I will wait on him soon; He wants to know if I have provided a Tutor for Mrs _Thornton_ Mr _Leek_ told me something about coming, but not til next Spring, & I judge that Mrs Thornton will be impatient before that time--Do you now indeed, sincerely, in your Heart, Sir says Ben to me after we had retired to our Chamber, believe that there is a Devil?--For my part, tho' I made _George Lee_ think otherwise, I do not--I told him that it was universally allowed by writers of the greatest reputation for Learning and Religion in the established Church of England, whose Canons he profess'd to believe & adhere to--And that, if he would attend to my advice, he ought not to doubt its Reality.

[191] Colonel John Tayloe.

_Monday 25._

_Harry_ & _Bob_ go shrugging up their backs with their Coats Buttoned about the School, first one then the other complaining of the cold--The Girls too, in their white Frocks, huddle close together for the benefit of warming each other, & look like a Flock of Lambs in the Spring--I wish they were half as innocent--I myself, after having added a Waistcoat, am notwithstanding disagreeably Cold--The air is clear, the wind strong from the West--I proceeded in my Latin Exegesis, & shall, I hope, shortly be through it--I gave to _Nancy_ at her Request, my Scetch of _Nominy-Hall_--I propose to take off one for myself--

_Teusday 26._

The morning cool enough--Order me a Horse & Chair, says the Colonel after Breakfast, for I must go to Westmoreland-Court--I piddled at my Exegessis, but (as they say here in Virginia) I did a mighty little--Priscilla after School invited me to ride with her, but I had preengaged to go on Board the _Harriot_; She now lies in Nominy about half a mile Distant--_Bob_ conducted me on board, She is a neat vessel, carries 1400 Bushels--_Bob_ strip'd & swam round us half an hour--Coffee; Well, Sir, says the Colonel at las I can treat you with several Letters--My heart jumped--A fine Repast indeed, valuable because exceeding rare! But shall I hear any thing from--_Laura_?--On this he gave me Letters from,

1. Rev'd Enoch Green, Dated Feb: 1774. 2. From Laura, Dated Feb: 13th 1774. 3. From John Peck Dated Nassau Hall July 2. 1774 4. From John Peck dated Feb: 25th 1774. 5. From the Revd: Andrew Hunter, dated Cohansie June 24th. 1774. 6. From Andrew Hunter Junr: Dated June 24th. 1774. Cohansie. 7. From Mr James Ewing, Dated Bridge-town July 7th. 1774.

For these Letters I paid--12s 5d--Pennsylvania Currency, & I am very proud of my Bargain--

Mr Peck informs me that he is to succeed me in this place--Mr _Hunter_ & Mr Ewing inform me of the Death of Uncle Ephraim Seeley! That he died of a _Diabetes_ which has long troubled him! He has left no Doubt a mourning Family--Mr _Hunter_ writes me word that _Andrew_ was licensed to preach about the middle of June. Laura says--They all express with Concern the great Commotions which at present exist through the Colonies.

_Wednesday 27._

Somehow I have taken a bad Cold, & am low-spirited to Day--The Colonel was all the forenoon down at the _Harriot_ in the Sun, so that when we went in to dine he seem'd fatigued & eat nothing--We have an Addition to our numerous Family, one Mr ---- I forget his name, he is a Cooper, tho', & an Irishman, & seems to be pretty smart; I sat the Evening with him in Mr Randolphs Room.

_Thursday 28._

Evening, after the Sun had gone, with _Priss_ I walked in the Garden. we gathered some few Figs which are just growing ripe--My Leisure to Day I spent in finishing off my Latin Exercises.

_Fryday 29._

I feell wholly relieved of my cold--I wrote & sent to the Post a Letter to Mr _John Peck_, to remind & hurry him in his way here--O! it is very hot--The wind itself seems to be heated! We have a fine Room, & sufficiently open; & I dress in a thin Waist-Coat, & a loose, light linen Gown; The _Boys_, _Harry_ & _Bob_ have nothing on, in School, but their shirts & Breeches; and I laugh'd cordially to see the contrivance of _Fanny_, the loveliest of them all, to grow cool, She sat on a low bench, & put her Hand in her pocket, & seem'd exceeding diligent in looking for something--But before She took out her hand She had off both her Stockings, & left them both in her pocket!--Mrs _Carter_ in particular seems to be overcome with the extreme Heat & looks like a fainting, expiring yet lovely Creature!--At seven I rode out to the Corn-field, the Sun was almost down, & was hid behind a large white thick Cloud where it Thunders--The Corn is roll'd up with the heat & Drouth! Yet it is strange there is no Musquetoes--I have seen one & heard another, & this is the whole compliment I have either _seen_, _heard_ or _felt_ since I have been in _Virginia_--While we were drinking _Coffee_ the Lightning, as it began to grow Dark, began to stream, it was at some Distance, but was incessant, bright, & awful--The Colonel, however sat, & with unmoved Composure observed it;

_Saturday 30._

The weather is something cooler & bearable this Morning--_Frank Christien_ one of Mr _Lowe's_ Scholars came to visit _Harry_ & _Bob_, so that I discharged them about eleven, & retired to my Chamber to writing--I sent Mr _George Lee_ a note this morning begging him to excuse _Ben_ & I from attending his Fish-Feast this Day--Captain _Dobby_ dined with us; he is a Man of much Spirit and Humour: A great Mimick--He acquainted us that at Hobbs's-Hole this Day is a Boat-Race on the River Rappahannock Each Boat is to have 7 Oars: to row 2 Mile out & 2 Miles in round a Boat lying at Anchor--The Bett 50£--And that in the Evening there is a great Ball to be given--I believe both the _Rowers_ & _dancers_, as well _Ladies_ as _Gentlemen_ will perspire freely--Or in plain English they will soak in Sweat! The Captain invited us on Board his Ship next Teusday to Dine with him & wish them a pleasant Passage as the Ship is to Sail the day following--If the Weather is not too burning hot I shall go provided the Others go likewise. Ben towards evening rode to Colonel Tayloe's--

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO GEORGE LEE]

To Mr. George Lee. July 30th. 1774.

SIR.

With my compliments I am to inform you that _Ben_:-_Carter_ is, of necessity, to go this day into _Richmond_; and as my company alone will not be equal to the trouble you must be at I give you this timely notice that you may avoid it,

I am, with my thanks for your Invitation, Sir, Your most humble Servt: P. V. FITHIAN.

[JOURNAL]

_Sunday 31._

Daddy _Gumby_ saw me walking--I had just got up, it was early I had only a Gown thrown round me--He walked towards me--Well Master you never call for no Eggs. I can now give you a _Water Melon_--No, Thomas, with your Wife & family enjoy these things. I am well provided for--Well, Master, I promised you Eggs, for writing you will think I never designed to pay you--God yonder in Heaven Master will burn _Lyars_ with _Fire_ & _Brimstone_!--I speak Truth I will not deceive you Men are wicked, Master; look see the Grass is burnt: God burns it to punish us! Is the ground dry, Dadda. O! all dry, all burnt--Pray, Pray, Master, do you go to Church?--No No Dadda it is too hot--Too hot, Good God, too hot! I shall affront you, Master--Too hot to serve the Lord! Why I that am so old & worn out go on Foot.--I felt a little non plus'd, I confess, but walk'd to my Room & went none to Church--I expected that we should have had prayrs at home, but it was not mentioned--Fanny towards Evening brought me half a _Water-Melon_--I accepted & thank'd the little pretty Slut, she seems so artless, & delicate I esteem her exceedingly--I walked out about Sun-set, when it is a little cool, along the River Nominy--

_Monday August 1st 1774._

The Colonel rode to Richmond Court--The morning very hot--A Cloud appeared about two o Clock as we were going to Dinner in the West where it thundered--Mrs. _Carter_ kept her Chamber--There is almost no Rain--I looked to day over Dr _Burney's_ present State of Musick in Germany--I think it more entertaining than realy useful--Ben to Day begun the _Eneid_--Poor Mr _Randolph_ seems to be sickening with the _Ague_ & _Fever_!--Evening the Colonel returned & gave us Captain Dobby's repeated Invitation.

_Teusday 2._

_Ben_ & I drest ourselves pretty early with an intention to Breakfast with Colonel _Tayloe_, but the Servant who went with us was so slow in preparing that we breakfasted before we set out--We arrived at Colonel Tayloe's however by half after nine--The young Ladies we found in the Hall playing the Harpsichord--The morning cool with a fine Breeze from the North for I forgot to mention that about Midnight last Night a violent Gust of Blackness, Rain, & Thunder came on & gave us present Relief from the scorching Sun; there was no Dust & the riding was pleasant--The Colonel, his Lady, Miss Polly, Miss Kitty, Miss Sally, rode in their Great Coach to the Ferry--Distance about 4 miles--Ben & I on Horseback--From Colonel Tayloe's to this Ferry opposite to Hobbs's Hole the Land is levil & extremely good; Corn here looks very rank is set thick with Ears, & they are high & large, three commonly on a Stalk--Here I saw about an Acre & a half of Flax, which the people were just pulling, exceedingly out of Season--This is the only Flax I have seen since I have been in the Colony; I am told they raise much in the upper Counties--Here too is a great Marsh covered with thick high Reed--The Face of this part of the Country looks fertile, but I apprehend it is far from being healthy--We came to the Bank of the Rappahannock; it is here about 2 Miles over the Shipping on the other Side near the Town lying at Anchor look fine; no large Vessels can haul along the Wharves on account of shoal Water--There were six Ships riding in the Harbour, and a number of Schooners & smaller Vessels--Indeed, says Mrs _Tayloe_, Captain Dobby has forgot us. here we have been waiting for a full half hour, shall we take the Ferry Boat Colonel & cross over, & not stand any longer in the burning heat?--I was pleased not a little with the proposal tho' at the same time, I laughed with myself at Mrs Tayloe's truely Womanish impatience!--At last they are coming--The long-Boat came, well furnished with a large Awning, and rowed with four Oars--We entered the Ship about half after twelve where we were received by Captain Dobby, with every possible token of welcome--Since I have been in Virginia, my inclination, & my fixed purpose before I left home, both of which were very much assisted by a strict Attention to the instructing my little Charge, these have kept me pretty constantly, almost wholly, indeed out of that kind of Company where dissipation & Pleasure have no restraint--This entertainment of Captain Dobby's, elegant indeed, & exceeding agreeable, I consider as one among a prodigeous throng of more powerful similar Causes, of the fevers & other Disorders which are common in this Colony, & generally attributed to the Climate which is thought to be noxious & unhealthy. The Weather here indeed is remarkably variable But taking away & changing the usual & necessary Time of Rest; Violent Exercise of the Body & Spirits; with drinking great quantities of variety of Liquors, these bring on Virginia Fevers--The Beaufort is a Stately Ship; Captain Dobby had an Awning from the Stern over the Quarter quite to the Mizen-Mast, which made great Room, kept off the Sun, & yet was open on each Side to give the Air a free passage. At three we had on Board about 45 Ladies, and about 60 Gentlemen besides the Ships Crew, & Waiters Servants &c. We were not throng'd at all, & dined all at twice--I was not able to inform myself, because it seemed improper to interrupt the General pleasure, with making circumstantial inquiries concerning Individuals, & saying pray, Sir, what young Lady is that yonder in a Lute-String Gown? She seems genteel; where does her Father live? Is she a Girl of Family & Breeding? Has She any Suitors? This when one could not be out of the Inspection of the Company, would have seemed impertinent so that I did not much enlarge my Acquaintance with the Ladies, which commonly seems pleasing & desirable to me; But I took Notice of Several, & shall record my remarks--The Boats were to Start, to use the Language of Jockeys, immediately after Dinner; A Boat was anchored down the River at a Mile Distance--Captain _Dobby_ and Captain _Benson_ steer'd the Boats in the Race--Captain _Benson_ had 5 Oarsmen; Captain _Dobby_ had 6--It was _Ebb-Tide_--The Betts were small--& chiefly given to the Negroes who rowed--Captain Benson won the first Race--Captain Purchace offered to bett ten Dollars that with the same Boat & same Hands, only having Liberty to put a small Weight in the Stern, he would beat Captain _Benson_--He was taken, & came out best only half the Boats Length--About Sunset we left the Ship, & went all to Hobbs's Hole, where a _Ball_ was agreed on--This is a small Village, with only a few Stores, & Shops, it is on a beautiful River, & has I am told commonly six, eight, & ten Ships loading before it the Crews of which enliven the Town--Mr Ritche[192] Merchant; he has great influence over the People, he has great Wealth; which in these scurvy Times gives Sanction to Power; nay it seems to give countenance to Tyranny--The Ball Room--25 Ladies--40 Gentlemen--The Room very long, well-finished, airy & cool, & well-seated--two Fidlers--Mr _Ritche_ stalk'd about the Room--He was Director, & appointed a sturdy two fisted Gentleman to open the Ball with Mrs _Tayloe_--He danced midling tho'. There were about six or eight married Ladies--At last Miss _Ritche_ danced a Minuet with ---- She is a tall slim Girl, dances nimble & graceful--She was _Ben Carters_ partner--Poor Girl She has had the third Day Ague for twelve months past, and has it yet She appeared in a blue Silk Gown; her Hair was done up neat, without powder, it is very Black & Set her to good Advantage--Soon after he danced Miss _Dolly Edmundson_[193]--A Short pretty Stump of a Girl; She danced well, sung a Song with great applause, seemed to enter into the Spirit of the entertainment--A young Spark seemed to be fond of her; She seemed to be fond of him; they were both fond, & the Company saw it--He was Mr Ritche's Clerk, a limber, well dress'd, pretty-handsome Chap he was--The insinuating Rogue waited on her home, in close Hugg too, the Moment he left the Ball-Room--Miss _Aphia Fantleroy_ danced next, the best Dancer of the whole absolutely--And the finest Girl--Her head tho' was powdered white as Snow, & crap'd in the newest Taste--She is the Copy of the goddess of Modesty--Very handsome; she seemed to be loved by all her Acquaintances, and admir'd by every Stranger, Miss _McCall_--Miss _Ford_--Miss _Brokenberry_[194]--_Ball_--Two of the younger Miss _Ritche's_--Miss _Wade_--They danced till half after two. Captain Ritche invited Ben & I, Colonel Tayloe & his Family with him--We got to Bed by three after a Day spent in constant Violent exercise, & drinking an unusual Quantity of Liquor; for my part with Fatigue, Heat, Liquor, Noise, Want of sleep, And the exertion of my Animal spirits, I was almost brought to believe several times that I felt a Fever fixing upon me, attended with every Symptom of the Fall Disorders--

[192] Archibald Ritchie was a prominent merchant of Hobb's Hole.

[193] The Edmundsons were a prominent family in Essex County. Thomas Edmundson, whose will was proved in 1759, had a daughter named Dorothy Edmundson.

[194] The Brockenbrough family had been a well-known one in Richmond County since the beginning of the eighteenth century. William Brockenbrough (1715-c.1778) had married Elizabeth Fauntleroy, whose sister Mary was the wife of Parson Giberne.

_Wednesday 3._

We were call'd up to Breakfast at half after eight--We all look'd dull, pale, & haggard!--From our Beds to Breakfast--Here we must drink hot Coffee on our parching Stomachs!--But the Company was enlivening--Three of the Miss Tayloe's--Three Miss Ritche's--And Miss _Fantleroy_--This loveliest of all the Ring is yet far below--_Laura_ If they were set together for the choice of an utter Stranger; he would not reflect, but in a moment spring to the Girl that I mean to regard--After Breakfast the young Ladies favoured us with several Tunes on the Harpsichord--They all play & most of them in good Taste--at eleven we went down to the River; the Ships Long Boat was waiting, Captain _Purchace_ of the _Beaufort_ helped us on Board--I gave the Boatswain a Pisterene for his trouble--Half a Bit for the Pasture of my Horse--We rode to Colonel Tayloe's--The Ladies all retired for a nap before Dinner. We sat in the Hall, & conversed with the Colonel a sensible, agreeable Sociable person--Miss _Garrot_ is Governess of the Young Ladies; She too is chatty, satirical, neat, civil, had many merry remarks at Dinner, we staid til about six took our Leave, & rode Home--Found all well; gave an account of ourselves, of our entertainment, & of our Company to Mr & Mrs Carter at Coffee--& retired soon to Bed--

_Thursday 4._

I made out to get up by seven--A little fatigued tho'--Many are sickening with a Fever, & great numbers have the Ague--Protect me if it be thy will, God of my Life, & give me a Heart to praise thy name for all my Favours--Dined with us the Inspector--I walked through the Garden, several times banishing by solitude, as much as possible reflection on several Days past.--

_Fryday 5._

I have no Stockings; & I swear I wont go to the Dancing School This was the first I heard of _Bob_--Are Bob & Nancy gone to Mr _Turberville's_ said the Colonel at Breakfast--_Nancy_ is gone Sir, Bob stays at Home he has no shoes! poh! What nonsense! says the Colonel--Call _Bob_, & Call the Clerk--He sent Mr Randolph to the Store for a pair of Shoes, Bob he took to his Study and flogg'd severely for not having given seasonable Notice, & sent him instantly to the Dance--

_Saturday 6._

Last night, & this morning haizy mistty the Wind South East threatens a Rain--Transcribing my pieces, yesterday and to Day--I had a strong invitation to Dr Thompsons Fish-Feast, but the Rainy Weather hindred; I spent the Day in Quiet in my Chamber writing--Dadda Gumbey sent me a small Water-Melon.

_Sunday 7._

I set out for Church--It was cloudy, it Thundered in the West: But I rode on Bob was with me--We arrived at the Church & had our Saddles put into a Chariot--When a violent Gust came on--We were all in the Church; many Ladies were present--The Thunder was violent! Many discovered great Terror--Neither the Parson, nor Clerk attended--There we sat in Silence til the Storm was over, when each sallied out & splashed homewards--Mr & Mrs Carter were to have gone by Water--They had set off But saw the Cloud befor they had rowed far, & wisely returned--Towards Evening Miss Betsy _Carter_, Miss Polly _Carter_ of Richmond, & Miss _Turberville_ came over to see our Girls. Miss Betsy plays the Harpsichord extremely well, better I think than any young Lady I have seen in Virginia.

_Monday 8._

All once more in School--Dined with us _George Lee_ & Mr _Grubb_--They spent the afternoon at the great House--After Coffee Lee rode Home--Mr _Grubb_ staid with us all night--Dennis came into our Room to bring us a Bowl of Punch; Grubb shut the Door, and accused him of having been caught with Bett, the Dairy Girl, in the Stable last Saturday Night--Dennis seem'd in great distress, he denied the Fact tho' with great steadiness--Nelson our Boy came in with a candle--Dennis here, says _Grubb_ to _Nelson_, has been accusing you, Sir, of several crimes; he says you gave him half a _Bitt_ last Saturday Night, to stand at the Stable-Door while he with Bett--Nelson star'd--Grubb opened a huge _Molls Atlas_ that lay in the Room; & read off their Case & indictment--The Boys seem'd crazy--We dismiss'd them when all the novelty was over, but they darted like Indians so soon as they were at liberty--We sat up til eleven--Ben drank for his Toast, Miss _Julia Stockton_ of New Jersey; Grubb Miss Betsy Carter--I with pleasure the Rival of them all--

_Teusday 9._

I propose to visit Dr Jones to Day say's Mrs _Carter_ at Breakfast--See & have the Carriage ready for me by ten o-Clock _Benny_--She took with her _Priss_, and _Nancy_--We have a thin School--Mr _Grubb_ dined with us--Staid til evening, when with Ben he rode home--I finished & glad enough I feel my Latin Thesis--The Weather is now very tolerable, we had to Day a fine Shower about twelve--

_Wednesday 10._

All in School--Miss _Fanny_ very much troubled with the festered Bites of _Seed Ticks_--Mr _Stadley_, whom I always see with Pleasure came towards evening--After School he gave the Girls a lesson each--About Six we have a fine Shower, with Thunder and Lightning, especiall in the evening the Lightning Sharp--

_Thursday 11._

Dined with us two Gentlemen Names unknown--They informed us that a Flux is in a neighbouring County, of which many die!--The Ague too is growing frequent _Fanny_ has a fit this afternoon--I begin to be a little alarmed at the early approach of these Disorders, which I fear will be distressful here!--Through the kindness of heaven I am yet in perfect health--Mr _Carter_ & Mr _Stadley_ performed both on the _harmonica_ I am charm'd with the Sounds! The melody is swelling, grave & grand! The weather vastly hot--

_Fryday 12._

Very hot--_Sam_ our Barber is Seized with the Ague & Fever--Fanny is confined to her chamber with a Fever occasioned, I am apt to believe, by the inflamed bites of the Seed-Ticks, which cover her like a distinct Small Pox.--Dined with us by particular invitation, Mr _Turberville's_ Family, and Miss _Betsy Lee_--The conversation at Table was on the Disorders which seem growing to be epidemical, _Fevers_, _Agues_, _Fluxes_--A gloomy train!--Fearing these, I keep myself at home; make my diet sparing & uniform; Use constant moderate Exercise; Drink as little Wine as possible, & when I must drink Toasts I never fail to dilute them with well with Water; I omit almost every kind of fruit; & make my time for _Sleeping_ from Night to Night the same, Viz to Bed by ten, & rise by six invariably--I never lived so much by Rule as I do this Summer; & I am taught the Art, & have a Steady Example in Mr & Mrs _Carter_--Mr _Stadley_ played on the Harpsichord & harmonica several Church Tunes & Anthems, with great propriety--

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO JOHN PECK]

Nomini Hall August 12th 1774. "Si bene moneo[Maneo], attende."--

SIR.

I never reflect, but with secret, and peculiar pleasure, on the time when I studied in _Deerfield_ with you, & several other pleasant Companions, under our common, & much respected instructor, Mr _Green_. And I acknowledge now, with a thankful heart, the many favours, which I received from your family while I was a member of it. This sense of obligation to your Family. And personal friendship for you, have excited me, when it was in my power, to introduce you to the business which I now occupy; into a family, where, if you be prudent and industrious, I am confident you will speedily acquire to yourself both Honour & Profit--But inasmuch as you are wholly a stranger to this Province; & have had little or no Experience in the business which you ar[e] shortly to enter upon; & lest, from common Fame, which is often erroneous, you shall have entertained other notions of the manners of the People here, & of your business as a Tutor, than you will find, when you come, to be actually true; I hope you will not think it _vain_ or _untimely_, if I venture to lay before you some Rules for your direction which I have collected from a year's observation. I shall class what I have to say in the following order. First. I shall attempt to give you some direction for the plan of your Conduct among your neighbours, & the People in General here, so long as you sustain the character of a Tutor. Then I shall advise you concerning the rules which I think will be most profitable & convenient in the management of your little lovely charge, the School. Last of all. I shall mention several Rules for your personal conduct. I choose to proceed in the order I have laid down, as well that you may more fully & speedily recieve my mind, as that you may also the more readily select out and apply what you shall find to be most necessary.

First. When you have thought of removing, for a Time, out of the Colony in which you was born, & in which you have hitherto constantly resided, I make no doubt but you have at the same time expected to find a very considerable alteration of manners, among your new acquaintances, & some peculiarities toto Caelo different, from any you have before been accustomed to. Such a thought is natural; And you will if you come into Virginia, in much shorter time than a year, be convinced that it is just. In New-Jersey Government throughout, but especially in the Counties where you have any personal acquaintance, Gentlemen in the first rank of Dignity & Quality, of the Council, general Assembly, inferior Magistrates, Clergy-men, or independent Gentlemen, without the smallest fear of bringing any manner of reproach either on their office, or their high-born, long recorded Families associate freely & commonly with Farmers & Mechanicks tho' they be poor & industrious. Ingenuity & industry are the Strongest, & most approved recommendations to a Man in that Colony. The manners of the People seem to me, (probably I am overborn by the force of prejudice in favour of my native Soil), to bear some considerable resemblance of the manners in the ancient Spartan Common-Wealth--The Valour of its Inhabitants--was the best, & only security of that State against the enemy; & the wise laws of its renowned Legislator were the powerful Cement which kept them firm & invincible--In our Government, the laborious part of Men, who are commonly ranked in the midling or lower Class, are accounted the strenth & Honour of the Colony; & the encouragement they receive from Gentlemen in the highest stations is the spring of Industry, next to their private advantage. The Levil which is admired in New-Jersey Government, among People of every rank, arises, no doubt, from the very great division of the lands in that Province, & consequently from the near approach to an equality of Wealth amongst the Inhabitants, since it is not famous for trade. You know very well that the Lands in a small township are divided, & then again subdivided into two & three Hundred Separate, proper, creditable estates; for example _Deerfield_ & _Fairfield_ two Townships, or Precincts, in which you & I are tolerably well acquainted, in the former of which, are the Seats of two Judges of the Sessions; & in the latter resides one of the representatives in General Assembly for the County; But if 16000£ would purchase the whole landed estates of these three Gentlemen, who are supposed to be the most wealthy in the County, if we rate their Land at the Low Consideration of 4£ per acre, with all conveniences, each would have 4000 Acres. Now you may suppose how small a quantity many must have when two or three hundred Landholders reside in each of these small Precincts; Hence we see Gentlemen, when they are not actually engaged in the publick Service, on their farms, setting a laborious example to their Domesticks, & on the other hand we see labourers at the Tables & in the Parlours of their Betters enjoying the advantage, & honour of their society and Conversation--I do not call it an objection to this, that some few, who have no substance but work like Slaves as nec[e]ssity drives them for a few Months in the year; with the price of this Labour they visit Philadelphia; & having there acquired a fashionable Coat, & a Stock of Impudence, return home to spend the remainder of the year, in idleness & disgrace!--But you will find the tables turned the moment you enter this Colony. The very Slaves, in some families here, could not be bought under 30000£. Such amazing property, no matter how deep it is involved, blows up the owners to an imagination, which is visible in all, but in various degrees according to their respective virtue, that they are exalted as much above other Men in worth & precedency, as blind stupid fortune has made a difference in their property; excepting always the value they put upon posts of honour, & mental acquirements--For example, if you should travel through this Colony, with a well-confirmed testimonial of your having finished with Credit a Course of studies at Nassau-Hall; you would be rated, without any more questions asked, either about your family, your Estate, your business, or your intention, at 10,000£; and you might come, & go, & converse, & keep company, according to this value; & you would be dispised & slighted if yo[u] rated yourself a farthing cheaper. But when I am giving directions to you, from an expectation that you will be shortly a resident here, altho you have gone through a College Course, & for any thing I know, have never written a Libel, nor stolen a Turkey, yet I think myself in duty bound to advise you, lest some powdered Coxcomb should reproach your education, to cheapen your price about 5000£; because any young Gentleman travelling through the Colony, as I said before, is presum'd to be acquainted with Dancing, Boxing, playing the Fiddle, & Small-Sword, & Cards. Several of which you was only entering upon, when I left New-Jersey; towards the Close of last year; and if you stay here any time your Barrenness in these must be detected. I will however allow, that in the Family where you act as tutor you place yourself, according to your most accute Calculation, at a perfect equidistance between the father & the eldest Son. Or let the same distance be observed in every article of behaviour between you & the eldest Son, as there ought to be, by the latest & most approved precepts of Moral-Philosophy, between the eldest Son, & his next youngest Brother. But whenever you go from Home, where you are to act on your own footing, either to a Ball; or to a _Horse-Race_, or to a _Cock-Fight_, or to a _Fish-Feast_, I advise that you rate yourself very low, & if you bett at all, remember that 10,000£ in Reputation & learning does not amount to a handfull of Shillings in ready Cash!--One considerable advantage which you promise yourself by coming to this Colony is to extend the Limits of your acquaintance; this is laudable, & if you have enough of prudence & firmness, it will be of singular advantage--Yet attempt slowly & with the most Jealous Circumspection--If you fix your familiarity wrong in a single instance, you are in danger of total, if not immediate ruin--You come here, it is true, with an intention to teach, but you ought likewise to have an inclination to learn. At any rate I solemnly injoin it upon you, that you never suffer the spirit of a Pedagogue to attend you without the walls of your little Seminary. In all promiscuous Company be as silent & attentive as Decency will allow you, for you have nothing to communicate, which such company, will hear with pleasure, but you may learn many things which, in after life, will do you singular service.--In regard to Company in general, if you think it worth the while to attend to my example, I can easily instruct you in the manner of my Conduct in this respect. I commonly attend Church; and often, at the request of Gentlemen, after Service according to the custom, dine abroad on Sunday--I seldom fail, when invited by Mr or Mrs _Carter_, of going out with them; but I make it a point, however strongly solicited to the contrary, to return home with them too--Except in one of these cases, I seldom go out, but with a valuable variety of books I live according to Horace's direction, & love "Secretum Iter et fallentis Semita Vitae." Close retirement and a life by Stealth. The last direction I shall venture to mention on this head, is, that you abstain totally from Women. What I would have you understand from this, is, that by a train of faultless conduct in the whole course of your tutorship, you make every Lady within the Sphere of your acquaintance, who is between twelve & forty years of age, so much pleased with your person, & so fully satisfied as to your abilities in the capacity of--a Teacher; & in short, fully convinced, that, from a principle of Duty, you have, both by night & by day endeavoured to acquit yourself honourably, in the Character of a Tutor; & that, on this account, you have their free & hearty consent, without making any manner of demand upon you, either to stay longer in the County with them, which they would choose, or whenever your business calls you away, that they may not have it in their Power either by charms or Justice to detain you, & when you must leave them, have their sincere wishes & constant prayrs for Length of days & much prosperity, I therefore beg that you will attend litterally to this advice, & abstain totally from Women. But this last precaution, which I have been at some pains to dress in the plainest language, I am much inclined to think, will be wholly useless in regard to you, notwithstanding it is founded in that _Honour_ and _Equity_ which is on all hands allow'd to be due from one Sex to the other, & to many of your _age_, & _Standing_ no doubt would be entirely salutary. Because the necessary connections which you have had with the Fair, from your Puberty upwards have been so unfavourable & ill-fated, that instead of apprehending any danger on the score of over fondness, I am fearful your rancour has grown so inveterate at length, as, not only to preserve you, in thought & practice, pure of every Fleshly foible, but has carried you so far towards the other extream, as that you will need many persuasions, when your circumstances shall seem to require it, to bring you back to a rational & manly habit of thinking & acting with respect to the Sex; which yet, after all (& eternally will continue to be, tho it is so much courted & whined after) if considered in the fullest manner, & set forth to the best advantage, never rises above its divine definition viz "The weaker Vessel." But without detaining you any longer with a matter merely depending on accident or Circumstance I pass on to the second General Head; in which "Ludis atque Jocis amotis [amatis]" I shall offer to your consideration & recommend for your practice several Rules concerning the managment of the School.

2. You will act wisely, if, from the begining, you convince all your Scholars which you may easily do, of your abilities in the several branches, which you shall profess to teach; you are not to tell them, totidem Verbis, "that you understand, perhaps as well as any man on the Continent both the Latin & Greek Classicks;" "& have gone through the usual Course in the noted College of New-Jersey, under Dr Witherspoon, so universally known & admired, where you have studied Criticism, Oratory, History, not to mention Mathematical & philosophical Studies, & dipt a good way into the French-Language, & that you have learn'd a smattering of Dancing, Cards &c. &c. &c." For Dun-p or Hack---n or the most profound dunce in your College or School would have too much sense to pass such impudence by, & not despise and reproach it; but you may speedily & certainly make them think you a "Clever Fellow" (which is a phrase in use here for a good Scholar) if you never mention any thing before them, only what you seem to be wholly master of--This will teach them never to dispute your determination, & always to rely upon your Judgment; two things which are most essential for your peace, & their advantage. That you may avoid yourself of this with certainty I shall recommend for your practice the following method, as useful at least, if not intirely necessary. Read over carefully, the lessons in Latin & Greek, in your leisure hours, that the story & Language be fresh in your memory, when you are hearing the respective lessons; for your memory is treacherous, & I am pretty certain it would confound you if you should be accosted by a pert School-Boy, in the midst of a blunder, with "Physician heal thyself"!--You ought likewise to do this with those who are working Figures; probably you may think that because the highest Cypherer is only in decimal arithmetic, it is not there fore worth your critical attention to be looking previously into the several Sums. But you are to consider that a sum in the Square-Root, or even in the Single Rule of three direct, is to your Pupils of as great importance, as the most abstruse problem in the Mathematicks to an able artist; & you may lay this down for a Maxim, that they will reckon upon your abilities, according as they find you acquainted & expert in what they themselves are studying. If therefore you have resolution (as I do not question your ability) to carry this plan which I have laid down into execution; you will thereby convince them of the propriety of their Subordination to you, & obedience to your instructions, so that you may lead them, without any resistance, and fix them to the Study of whatever Science you think proper, in which they will rise according to their respective Capacities. I have said that you ought to strive "from the beginning" in fixing this very material article in the minds of your Scholars, Viz a Sense of your authority; for one error of Judgment, or false determination will diminish your Ability with them more than doing forty things with truth would increase your authority--They act in this case as you would do in the company of a number of Strangers--A whole evenings conversation, if it was tolerable good Sense, would perhaps make little or no impression on you; But if through hast[e] in speaking, or inattention, any one should let fall a sentence either remarkably foolish, or grossly wicked, it would be difficult if not impossible to persuade you presently that the author was not either a _thick-Scull_, or a _Villain_!--The education of children requires constant unremitting attention. The meanest qualification you can mention in a useful teacher is _diligence_ And without diligence no possible abilities or qualifications can bring children on either with speed or profit. There must be a Combination of qualifications which must all operate strongly & uniformly. In short, give this said Pedagogizing the softest name you will, it is still a "difficult Task." You will meet with numberless difficulties, in your new imployment, which you never dreamt had yet existence. All these you must endeavour to resist & Subdue. This I have seen compared to a Man swimming against a current of Water. But I am mistaken if you will agree, after having six months practice, that the comparison be strong as the truth: You will add to the figure, I am certain, & throw into the Current sharp fragments of _Ice_, & _Blocks_, which would make swimming not only difficult but dangerous! I am not urging these things to discourage you; they are hints for your direction, which, if you will attend to, tho' at first the practice seem rough & unpleasant, shall yet make the remainder of your task pleasing, & the whole of it useful, I will mention several of these Obstacles that you may the more easily guard against them. You will, in the first place, be often solicited, probably oftner than you would wish, to ride abroad; this, however, if you do it moderately, & in seasonable time, & go to proper company, I recommend as conducive to health to one in your sedentary manner of living. But if you go much into company, you will find it extremely difficulty to break away with any manner of credit till very late at night or in most cases for several days, & if you are wanting to your School, you do manifest injury to your Imployer. In this case, I advise you to copy Mr _Carter_. Whenever he invites you, ride. You may _stay_, and talk, & drink, & ride to as great excess as he; & may with safety associate yourself with those whom you find to be his intimates. In all other Cases, except when you ride to Church, at least till you are very intimate in the Colony, you had better ride to a certain Stump, or to some noted plantation, or pretty landscape; you will have in this every advantage of exercise, the additional advantage of undisturbed Meditation, & you will be under no Jealous apprehension in point of behaviour, nor any restraint as to the time of your return.

Another current difficulty will be petitions for holidays. You must have good deal of steadiness if you are able to evade cleverly this practice which has grown so habitual to your little charge from a false method in their early education that they absolutely claim it as a necessary right.

You must also as much as you can, avoid visible partiality. At least you must never suffer your fondness for one Scholar to grow so manifest, as that all your School shall see you look over a fault in him or her which same fault, if commited by another, you severely chastise. This will certainly produce in the others hatred & contempt. A fourth difficulty, and the last I shall mention, consists in knowing when, & in what measure to give the Boys Liberty to go from Home. The two younger Boys are wholly under your inspection; so that not only the progress they make in learning, but their moral Conduct (for both of these are critically observed & examined) either justifies or condemns your management to the World. If you keep them much at home, & close to business, they themselves will call you unfeeling and cruel; & refuse to be industrious; if you suffer them to go much abroad they are certainly out of the way of improvement by Study, probably, by discovering their gross Ignorance, they will expose to ridicule both themselves & all their former instructors, & possibly they may commit actual Crimes so as very much to injure themselves; & scandalize their family; but in each of these you will have a large share of blame, perhaps more than the parents, or even the Boys themselves--It will be said that the parents gave them no licence relying wholly on your judgment & prudence, this will in good measure justify them to the world. And as to the Boys they are full of youthful impetuosity & vigour, & these compel them, when they are free of restraint, to commit actions which with proper management they had surely avoided. I say, when you lay these things together, & view them on every side you will find so many perplexities arising in your mind, from a sense of ignorance of your duty, that you will proceed with caution & moderation, & will be carefull to examine with some precision into the circumstances of _time_, _company_, & _Business_ when you license them to go out entirely at the risk of your Reputation--But the practice of three or four Weeks will give you a more full notion of these & many other incidents than I am able now either to recollect or express; I shall have gained my End if these hints prevent you from setting off wrong, & doing inadvertantly at first what your Scholars will assert to be precedents for your after conduct. I go on, therefore, in the third place as I proposed,

3. To mention several Rules for your personal conduct. The happy Education which you have had in point of religion, you ought to consider as an important and distinguishing Blessing of Heaven. That train of useful _Instruction_, _Advice_ & _Example_ to which you have been accustomed from your infancy is a more perfect, & will be a safer guide in your future walk, than any directions I am able to give you. You have taken notice of a method for Assistance in Composition, which Longinus recommends. Place, says he, in imagination, several eminent ancient Authors before your Eyes, & suppose that they inspect your Work, a Sense of inferiority would make you diligent, & your composition accurate. Perhaps the same advice when transferr'd to Morality, would be equally salutary. Unless it be objected that a Belief of Gods presence at all times in every place is the strongest possible restraint against committing Sin. This I constantly admit; but when I consider how easily our minds are put in motion, & how strongly they are sometimes agitated merely by the senses, & that the senses are aff3ected most by things which fall under their immediate notice, I am fully convinced that if some such plan as I have just mentioned should be fallen upon, & practised, it would make a visible and useful change in our behaviour--In this place I think it needful to caution you against hasty & ill founded prejudices. When you enter among a people, & find that their manner of living, their _Eating_, _Drinking_, _Diversions_, _Exercise_ &c, are in many respects different from any thing you have been accustomed to, you will be apt to fix your opinion in an instant, & (as some divines deal with poor Sinners) you will condemn all before you without any meaning or distinction what seems in your Judgment disagreable at first view, when you are smitten with the novelty. You will be making ten thousand Comparisons. The face of the Country, The _Soil_, the _Buildings_, the _Slaves_, the _Tobacco_, the method of spending _Sunday_ among Christians; _Ditto_ among the Negroes; the three grand divisions of time at the Church on Sundays, Viz. before Service giving & receiving letters of business, reading Advertisements, consulting about the price of Tobacco, Grain &c. & settling either the lineage, Age, or qualities of favourite Horses 2. In the Church at Service, prayrs read over in haste, a Sermon seldom under & never over twenty minutes, but always made up of sound morality, or deep studied Metaphysicks. 3. After Service is over three quarters of an hour spent in strolling round the Church among the Crowd, in which time you will be invited by several different Gentlemen home with them to dinner. The Balls, the Fish-Feasts, the Dancing-Schools, the Christnings, the Cock fights, the Horse-Races, the Chariots, the Ladies Masked, for it is a custom among the Westmorland Ladies whenever they go from home, to muffle up their heads, & Necks, leaving only a narrow passage for the Eyes, in Cotton or silk handkerchiefs; I was in distress for them when I first came into the Colony, for every Woman that I saw abroad, I looked upon as ill either with the _Mumps_ or Tooth-Ach!--I say, you will be often observing & comparing these things which I have enumerated, & many more that now escape me, with the manner of spending Money time & credit at Cohansie: You are young, &, (you will allow me the Expression) in the morning of Life. But I hope you have plann'd off, and entered upon the work which is necessary to be performed in the course of your Day; if not, I think it my duty to acquaint you, that a combination of the amusements which I have just now mentioned, being always before your Eyes, & inviting your Compliance will have a strong tendency to keep you doubtful & unsetled, in your notions of Morality & Religion, or else will fix you in a false & dangerous habit of _thinking_ & _acting_, which must terminate at length in Sorrow & despair. You are therefore, if you count any thing upon the value of my advice, to fix the plan in which you would spend your life; let this be done with deliberation, Candour, & precission, looking to him for direction, by fervent Prayr, who is the "Wonderful Counsellor;" & when you have done this, let no importunity of whatever kind prevail over you, & cause you to transgress your own Limitations. I have already exceeded the usual bounds of an Epistle. But you will easily pardon a little prolixity, when I assure you it flows from a heart deeply impressed with a sense of the many difficulties which you must encounter, & the dangers which will surround you when you come first out from the peaceful recess of Contemplation, & enter, young and unexperienced, into the tumultuous undiscerning World. I submit these hints to your consideration, & have nothing more than sincere & ardent wishes for your present & perpetual Felicity.

I am, Sir, yours. PHILIP. V FITHIAN.

TO MR JOHN PECK. On going to Virginia in Character of a Tutor.

[JOURNAL]

_Saturday 13._

_Prissy_ took the Ague last Night. She had an easy Fit--This Morning is quite cold, & will, I fear hasten on or at least provoke the present disorders--The good Mr _Stadley_ left us this Morning Breakfasted with us a Gentleman from _Maryland_. At Dinner he was join'd by another from the same Province they are both unknown--I rode out with Miss _Prissy_ to the Cornfield for Exercise--We gathered & brought home some good Roasting-Ears of Corn--Evening came in Colonel _Henry Lee_[195] He is chosen to be one of the seven who represent this Colony in the general Congress to be held next Month in Philadelphia--He sets out next Sunday Sennight--

[195] Richard Henry Lee of "Chantilly."

_Sunday 14._

Colonel Lee stays Breakfast (to Speak in the phrase of Ladies)--The morning fine--Sermon is to Day at Ucomico so that I am to stay in my Room; _Ben_, however, & _Bob_, & _Harry_, & Mr _Randolph_ all go--_Fanny_ is yet confin'd to her Chamber--

_Monday 15._

Began a Letter to Jack Peck, giving him advice in Respect to his coming into this Colony--The People are better, only Miss _Fanny_ with her Sores continues in her Chamber; I bought & sent her however this evening a present a large _Musk Melon_--Dined with us Squire _Lee_, he talks of going to Philadelphia to the Congress; He informs us that in Maryland is a Tea-Ship, from the India Company--

_Teusday 16._

The Colonel is summoned to a Meeting of Vestry-Men, at the Glebe--Nothing very extraordinary occurs, unless I mention that _Bob_ in the former part of this Day kept pretty quiet in his Seat, and worked out three Sums in Reduction compound, without much direction!--About five from the South East came on suddenly a Gust of Rain & Wind, Evening the Colonel returned but a good deal vexed--One of the Members were absent so that the Remainder could do no Business--

_Wednesday 17._

This Day is the annual Examination at Nassau-Hall--I wish the Candidates Success & Honour. Last year I had the Pleasure to be present & hear the Examination--I saw _Laura_ too; & the Vixen abused me! She shall repent of that insult; Indeed She must feel, tho' I wound myself in the experiment, the Consequence of Slighting good-humour & Civility--There likewise I saw _Belinda_ my late agreeable Correspondent. She had left town this unlovely Month, for the benefit of Princeton's pure salubrious Air--She laboured in a Consumption There too I took my last fare-well!--For soon after her return to Town the disorder fixed, & in a few Months destroy'd a _wise_, _useful_, _religious_ Girl--Her death surely was untimely, since she took with her all her virtues, which, with great pleasure & Sincerity She used to diffuse among her giddy Equals!--I am at a Loss to express my feeling for the Death of a young Lady, with whom I had only a short, yet a benificial Intimacy--The Circumstance of my first Acquaintance with her was wholly Accidental, yet I soon believed & accounted it advantageous--I thought her capable of improving me with Sentiment, & I speedily found that my expectation was true--We commenced a Litterary Correspondence, of which I only say that She always express'd herself with so much Truth, Ease & Humour as to make me read her Letters with eagerness and satisfaction--If I would record a Motto for her, it Should be--"Virtue without Melancholy." Breakfasted & dined with us two Gentlemen from Maryland--They come over for the benefit of Mr _Carter's_ Mill; as Mills are scarce near the Potowmack in Maryland; but the reason I am a stranger to--Read some in Dr Swift--Writing on to Mr Peck--The weather is close & this evening I heard two Musquetoes, only one of which ventured to light upon me--I dare say they are thicker at Cohansie!--Each Wednesday & Saturday we dine on Fish all the Summer, always plenty of _Rock_, _Perch_, & _Crabs_, & often Sheeps-Head and Trout!--

_Thursday 18._

Very ill most of last night with a violent Dysentery; I fear a frequency of this disease will at-length fix & ruin me--It continues to Day, & with no less rage, I cannot eat nor drink, am low Spirited Think constantly of Home;--Sometimes repent my having come into this Colony, & blame myself for having been persuaded to turn out of my road to public Business--But when I reflect closely I justify the Conduct, & resign myself _Body_ & _Soul_ & _Employment_ to God who has the Hearts of all in his hand, & who I am persuaded, if he has any thing for me to do in Life, will preserve, & in a measure fit me for it, if not, I am in his Hand, let him do as seemes good in his Eyes--At Dinner the Colonel invited me to ride with him to a Mill of his which is repairing, about eight miles Distance; I accepted his Invitation, gave the children a few Hours for Play, & went with the Colonel _Ben_ was along--The Face of the earth seems covered with mocking-Birds, but not one of them sing, they seem vastly busy but it is in collecting Food--Not a bird, except now & then _Robbin-Redbreast_ is heard to sing in this Feverish Month--Nature seems cheerless and gloomy! The Evening is hot, but the Ride was agreeable, it was useful too; for I grow much better; The Jolting of the Horse seemed salutary, my Pain subsided, I returned almost wholly relieved in the evening, drank my Coffee, went soon to my Room, gave thanks to my divine _restorer_ & laid me down to rest--

_Fryday 19._

I slept through the night in _quiet_ and ease, & rose perfectly relieved Mr _Carter_ at Breakfast advised me to take with him Some _Salt-Petre_, as a useful Dieuretick but I declin'd--Mr _Grubb_ came in about twelve o-Clock from _Sabine-Hall_. Colonel _Carter_ gave an Entertainment Yesterday to celebrate his Birth-Day; & had a numerous & gay Company.--This young Gentleman (Mr _Grubb_) appears to be a person of Capacity & Improvement; he was Educated in England, & has been assistant to a Merchant on _James's River_ in this Colony for some time past. This Summer he has been totally Idle--He proposes week after week to set out for Williamsburg, & Sail thence home, but he stays. He has much good nature, is an agreeable companion--I pity him.--He seems fond of Miss _Betsy Lee_--But he is too fluctuating in his mind to settle there, or with any Girl whatever Yet--

_Saturday 20._

_Ben_ Mr _Taylor_, Mr _Grubb_, & _Harry_ went to the Potowmack to a Fish Feast--Come, Fithian, what do you mean by keeping hived up sweating in your Room--Come out & air yourself--But I choose to stick by the Stuff. The Colonel too, very kindly, offered me a Seat in his Chariot to Nomini Court-House, but I declin'd Mr Lane & Mr Warden came in towards evening--Both in high Spirits. But Mr _Lane_ was (as they say) "Half Seas over"--they sat & chated noisily til nine--Evening clear a full Moon, & very light--Our neighbourhood seems alive with little Negro Boys playing in every part--

_Sunday 21._

Nomini Church--Parson Smith gave us after Prayrs, which he was obliged to read himself, a useful Sermon; poor man he seemed to labour hard--Dined with us Captain _Walker_, Mr _Lane_, Mrs _Lane_, Mr _Wadman_, Mr _Warden_.

Soon after Dinner I left the company & retired to my chamber where I seem commonly most happy--

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO PALATIAH WEBSTER]

Nomini-Hall Virginia, augt 21st 1774.

SIR.

I have an oppertunity by some gentlemen, who go from this Colony to the Congress, of writing you a line according to promise, since I saw you, I have been in good health; The reigning spirit in Virginia is liberty--And the universal topic politicks--I suppose it to be the same with you God Almighty knows where these civil tumults will end; probably not without War & Blood!--I have but little to say but to present you my best regards, remember me to your sister--To Miss Cunningham--The Miss Armitages--Miss Cooks--I hope to see you the last of october, when I expect to be in Town--Probably you can make it convenient for you to take a ramble into the country at that time. I hope to be at leisure, and shall be proud to attend you--Mr Blain, who favours me by carrying these is a Gentleman of my acquaintance in this Colony, a Merchant of Note, I shall thank you if you will take some notice of him,--And by him, as he is to return immediately I beg you write--Tell me how matters go in Town--Tell me what you know of the Country--Tell me much about the _Sex_ you love--Remember to ask Mr Blain the hour he returns, and dont fail to send me a line

I am, Sir, with great regard, Yours.

PALATIAH WEBSTER.

PHILIP V. FITHIAN.

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO NATHANIEL DONNALD, JR.]

Nomini Hall. Augt: 21st. 1774.

SIR.

I wrote you a line in great haste, just before I left home, and two days before that I had the pleasure of your company with ladies in an evening excursion--We have here no artificial gardens; Nor can we select out a company of sociable equals whenever we are in a humour for a walk--Here we either strain on Horseback from home to Church, or from house to House if we go out at all--Or we walk alone into a dark Meadow, or tall wood--But I love solitude, and these lonely recesses suit exactly the feeling of my mind--I recieved lately a letter from Cohansie, in which I am informed of the Death of Uncle _Seeley_--The family and neighbourhood will have suffered a great loss!--I suppose you join in the general language, and assert your liberties and oppose oppression. I hope at least you are on the right side of the question.

The City, I dare say, is in great tumult if not in consternation. I wish it was convenient for me to be in town when the gentlemen from the respective Colonies shall meet in general Congress--This is out of my power, but I can wish for their union, and usefulness. Mr _Blain_, the gentleman who forwards my letter, is a Merchant of Note, in this Colony, you will oblige me if you take notice of him while he is in Town.--You will not fail to write me a line, and give to Mr Blain the moment you recieve mine, least he leave town and I be disappointed.

My compliments to all friends, from Sir, Yours P. V. FITHIAN.

Mr Nathl: Donnald Junr:

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO MISS RUTH WEBSTER]

Nomini-Hall August 21st 1774.

MADAM.

I send you these inclosed in a line to your Brother.

I do this that you may recieve the letter, for there seems to be little security in a letter directed to you, the youngsters are so curious to examine what is written for you--I understand that you never recieved my last dated "May 1774. Delaware River on board the swallow." I wish I could detect the impudent interceptor--You have then at last condescended to visit Cohansie! I hear by Mr _Ewing_ that you was in the Country several weeks--Does it delight you, to hear the noise of Birds, of Lowing Cows, of Sheep, and of chatt'ring poultry, instead of the City-Cries? But I forget myself--Did you see that your Merchant, who, as I mentioned to you, is so moved with youn[g] person and manner? I suppose he was your constant and unwearied gallant--I expect that according to promise, you spent some part of your time with my sister--She a little Vixen, has never scribbled me a line, but I am level with her, for I have been as silent as she--Miss Beatty, that girl you seem so passionately fond of, is I expect, before this returned--She is indeed a lovely girl, if I say more you will call me partial--At any rate, as you correspond, I beg you will present her with my compliments, which are indeed but empty, thread-bare things--But Madam, I assure you they are the most valuable articles I can now transmit--I expect to be in town by the latter end of October, or beginning of November--If you are not too busy when you recieve this, I beg you will sit yourself instantly down and write me a friendly answer--This I think my due since I have written to you only, and to no other Lady either in town or country

I am, Madam, P. V. FITHIAN To Miss Ruth Webster.

[JOURNAL]

_Monday 22._

Mr _Grubb_ & Ben returned last evening--They spent their Day in _Richmond_[196]--I wrote to day several letters. to Philadephia One to Miss _Webster_. To her _Brother_. To _John McCalla_ junr--To Mr _Donald_--These I send by 'Squire _Lee_ who is to be of the Party--After School _Ben_, _Grubb_, & Myself rode to the _'Squires_--He took us into his Garden, shewed and gave us great Plenty of fine Peaches, _Nectarines_ &c

[196] Richmond County.

He has a large Garden, & great abundance of fruit--His People were shaking the trees to prepare the Peaches for Brandy

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO JOHN MCCALLA, JR.]

Nomini Hall Virginia Augt: 22d: 1774.

SIR.

Since I left you I have heard not a syllable about you, whether the ague has left you, whether you have left the City removed to Alexandria, as you proposed in the spring, in short both yourself and fame have been, as to you, wholly silent--

I have now an oppertunity which I gladly improve of sending you a line, and I beg that by the same conveyance you will send me an Answer--There are many from this Colony to attend the general Congress, seven by appointment, the others out of curiosity, by Mr _Blain_, a gentleman of my acquaintance in this Colony, a Merchant of Note I forward this; you will oblige me if you use him with civility.--

I cannot write home at present; if you should write soon to Cohansie, please to mention to whoever you write to that I am in good health; that the neighbourhood is in good health; and that I propose to return about the latter end of october--I can transmit nothing now concerning public affairs, you will know by the gentlemen from this province that the reigning spirit is liberty--I hope Mr and Mrs Hollinshead keep clear of the fevers this fall; but I fear they will suffer in that common calamity. I think they ought to remove to the City for a few weeks in september when the disorder rages where they reside--My best compliments attend your family, and to Miss _Pratt_, Miss _Boyd_ and others of my acquaintance in town as shall be convenient.

I am, Sir, with great truth and Regard your most obedient Most humble Servt: P. V. FITHIAN

Mr John McCalla Junr:

I shall thank you if you will send me the latest Journal, Gazette, and the Packet.

[JOURNAL]

_Teusday 23._

Blessed be God who yet preserves me in perfect health--_Priss_ has another fitt of the Ague these Disorders are giving Alarms. in a few Weeks I suppose they will grow numerous & troublesome--A violent Gust of Wind, Rain, & some Thunder we had about twelve o clock, the Country seems to be afloat--A [I] received this Morning a Note from a School Master in the Village, who signs himself "Brother Quill" He sends me with his compliments a Question. To multiply 12£ 12s 12½d by itself in Cross multiplication--And tells me the Answer is 160£ 1s 6d his way, viz by Decimals--I did not alter his answer, but suffered him to continue satisfied with his own performance.--

_Wednesday 24._

Stormy--A poor Man arrived from Maryland with Grain to grind. It was wet--He saw Mr Carter and Mr _Randolph_--Mr Randolph wore a red Coat--the Marylander asked _Bob_ which was the master of the House--_Bob_ with his usual impudence answered, the Man you see drest in a scarlet Coat--Who then says he is the other in a frowsled Wig?--He is says _Bob_ my fathers Clerk--The Colonel heard this Anecdote of _Bob_, which entertained him, While we were dining. I hear nothing of the Ague abroad, it seems to go by turns, sometimes brief then exceeding scarce--all this day the wind North East rainy.

_Thursday 25._

Still stormy. The Gentlemen who are sailing up the Bay to the Congress have a disagreeable time--This is a true August Northeaster, as we call it in Cohansie--_Ben_ is in a wonderful _Fluster_ lest he shall have no company to-morrow at the Dance--But blow high, blow low, he need not be afraid; _Virginians_ are of genuine Blood--They will dance or die!--I wrote some at my Letter for Mr _Peck_--The people here pronounce Shower "Sho-er"--And what in New-Jersey we call a Vendue here they a "Sale"--All Taverns they call "Ordinary's"--When a Horse is frolicsome & brisk, they, say at once he is "gayly"--she [if he] is mischievous, they call him, "vicious."--At five, with _Ben_. I rode out for exercise--After a while we arrived at _George-Lee's_--He gave us some excellent Peaches--He returned with us to Mr Turberville's--We met here with Miss _Betsy Lee_, Mr _Grubb_, _Lancelot Lee_ & here we spent the evening--_Fish-Feasts_, & _Fillies_, Loud disputes concerning the Excellence of each others Colts--Concerning their Fathers, Mothers (for so they call the Dams) Brothers, Sisters, Uncles, Aunts, Nephews, Nieces, & Cousins to the fourth Degree!--All the Evening Toddy constantly circulating--Supper came in, & at Supper I had a full, broad, sattisfying View of Miss _Sally Panton_--I wanted to hear her converse, but poor Girl any thing She attempted to say was drowned in the more polite & useful Jargon about Dogs & Horses!--For my Part, as I was unwilling to be singular, if I attempted to push in a word, I was seldom heard, & never regarded, & yet they were constantly refering their Cases to me, as to a supposed honest fellow, I suppose because I wear a black Coat, & am generally silent; at Home I am thought to be noisy enough; here I am thought to be silent & circumspect as a _Spy_--How different the Manners of the People! I try to be as cheerful as I can. & yet I am blamed for being stupid as a Nun--

_Fryday 26._

Mr Christian came while we were at Breakfast--Soon after came Miss _Washington_, Miss _Hale_ & the Miss _Lee's_--I kept myself in my Room pretty Close--Towards evening Mrs _Carter_, Miss _Washington_, Miss _Hale_, Mrs _Christien_ & _Myself_ had a thorough ramble, first thro' the Garden--We gathered some Figs, the Ladies seem fond of them, I cannot endure them--Then we stroll'd down the Pasture quite to the River, admiring the Pleasantness of the evening, & the delightsome Prospect of the River, Hills, Huts on the Summits, low Bottoms, Trees of various Kinds, and Sizes, Cattle & Sheep feeding some near us, & others at a great distance on the green sides of the Hills, People, some fishing, others working, & others in the Pasture among the Horses;--The Country emphatically in her goodly Variety! I love to walk on these high Hills where I can see the Tops of tall Trees lower than my Feet, at not half a miles Distance--Where I can have a long View of many Miles & see on the Summits of the Hills Clusters of Savin Trees, through these often a little Farm-House, or Quarter for Negroes; these airy Situations seem to me to be the Habitations of Health, and Vigor--We return'd, & all were apparently well satisfied with the walk--Evening was spent jovially in Dancing, at Supper, I left the Company, being not very well, & retired to my Chamber, Thanks to my heavenly Father, that I can enjoy a competent Measure of Health when many are sick around--A Note from Mr Lowe. Miss _Betsy Lee_, & her Brother came in just at night--Miss _Lee_ seems cheerful, dances well, sings agreeably, appears free of formality, & Haughtiness the Common foible here,--

_Saturday 27._

The morning spent in setting coppies, Sums &c, for the School--After Breakfast, I spent a couple of Hours in the Dancing-Room--Mr _Lee_ in our Room raved against the Scotch--He swore that if his Sister should marry a Scotchman, he would never speak with her again; & that if he ever Shall have a Daughter, if She marries a Scotchman he shoots her dead at once!--At twelve I rode to Mr Washingtons, the Country extremely pleasant Dined with the _Parson_, his _Brother_, Mrs _Smith_, Miss Pettit, Mr Blain, Mr Buckner,[197] & several of Mr _Lowes_ Boys; Mr Lowe was from home. On my return I found no company, except _Grubb_ who had come in my absence. We spent the Evening after sipping our Coffee in Chat with Mr & Mrs Carter.

[197] Richard Buckner (1730-1792) of "Albany" in Westmoreland County was a planter who sometimes had business dealings with Robert Carter. Members of the Buckner family had been prominent planter-merchants in Tidewater Virginia since John Buckner had emigrated from England and settled in Gloucester County shortly after the middle of the seventeenth century. John Buckner had imported the first printing press into the colony.

_Sunday 28._

Mr _Grubb_ rose very early, having yesterday made every previous necessary preparation, & set out for Home about One hundred miles Distance. He has so much good Nature, is always so cheerful, & at the same time void of any thing malicious, clamorous & impudent, that I cannot but esteem & very much respect him--On some whimsical unsubstantial Miff or other, however, our Girls cannot endure him--he wrote them some Copies the other Day, & tho' he writes a much finer neater hand than I they would not allow it, nor hardly--Strive to imitate--I laughed at the ridiculous, the perfect Picture of Female _Caprice_, & _Obstinacy_ in Miniature--Sermon is to Day at Ucomico, so that I keep my Room--I wrote several Letters which are to be forwarded by Mr _Blain_, one to _Jack Peck_, one to _John Duffield_,[198] at Dr Shippen's[199] Junr Philadelphia, & one to _Laura_. I begun also a Sermon I understand by Mrs _Carter_ & _Ben_ who were at Church, that the _Parson_ was unable to read Prayrs or Preach, having a Fever, but that there was a thronged Assembly; many I am told, have the Ague & Fever, but none are dangerous or have it fixed--

[198] John Duffield was graduated at Princeton in 1773. He served as a tutor there during the next two years.

[199] Dr. William Shippen (1736-1806) was a distinguished physician of Philadelphia. He was at this time professor of surgery and anatomy at the medical school of the College of Philadelphia. Shippen had married Alice Lee, a sister of Richard Henry, Arthur, Frances Lightfoot, and William Lee.

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO ELIZABETH BEATTY]

Nominy-Hall. August 28: 1774. TO LAURA.

There is a Letter of yours lying before me, in which you say "that if I had continued writing to you, it is more than probable you had been as negligent as ever; but that my leaving off for a Time has at last extorted a Letter from you"--Mighty pretty! I dare say the Sentiment is genuine, & you may be assured that I allow & believe it.

You are not, therefore, to account this any thing more than the Ghost, the Shade of a Letter; for, thinking this an extraordinary Case, I have gone beyond my usual Manner of speaking, in Order to convince you of my Resolution--And _swore_ that I will not interrupt you til' I have received several.

If you receive this by the Conveyance I expect (I send it by Col: _Lee_ who attends the Congress) it will be a few Days before I leave Virginia; for I intend, by the Permission of Heaven, being at Home by the beginning of November at farthest.

In the mean Time, since I ardently wish your constant and perpetual Felicity, from a deep-rooted Friendship, which I have discovered in a thousand Variations, suffer me to borrow a Form of Mr Addison, & put up one important Prayr in your Behalf "Ye guardian Angels to whose Care heaven has intrusted its dear Laura, guide her still forward in the Paths of Virtue, defend her from the Insolence & wrongs of this undiscerning World; At length, when we must no more converse with such Purity on Earth, lead her gently hence, innocent & unreproveable to a better Place, where by an easy Transition from what She now is, She may shine forth an Angel of Light."

It would be bold & presumptuous, or I would with Earnestness & Sincerity extend the Wish a little farther, but transfer it to Fortune, & pray that She would make you mine. I ought, however, to be cautious here--In so nice a Case, Truth & Virtue are often thought impertinent.

I advise you, upon the whole, to consult & examine the Prospect you have of substantial Happiness, when you are about to change your State for Life. Inform yourself, so far as you are able, of the _Quality_ & _Measure_ of what you think your chief Happiness--Your Satisfaction & Comfort will consist in.

Place this against necessary Distress & Perplexity; You will thereby have a clearer & fuller View of both; Your Judgement will be less confused; & more likely to fix to Advantage;--You are to consider that a wrong Choice brings on a Train of Curses; but view it in the other Light, & it is almost a State of unmixed Pleasures--

I am, Madam yours PHILIP. V. FITHIAN.

[JOURNAL]

_Monday 29._

Miss _Fanny_ in School to Day, but not entirely well of her Sores made by the _Ticks_--_Ben_ complains of a pain in his breast; he seems to have many symptoms of Weakness in his breast--I attempted to take a rough Draught of the Great House for myself--Evening after Coffee the C[o]lonel entertained us by playing on the Harmonica.

_Teusday 30._

Mr _Carter_ rides to Westmoreland Court. By him I send my Letters to Mr _Blain_, who is going to the Congress--_Ben_ seems to be no better; has a slight Fever, pain in his Breast, & Uneasiness, I fear he is bordering on a Consumption--His fond Mother discovers great Anxiety, & true affection. Once I too had a fond indulgent Mother; when I was sick, or otherwise distress'd, She was always impatient til my Health & Ease returned; & She used to urge me likewise by precept & example to strive for an habitual Preparation for Sickness and Death! But oh! She has gone & left me, & Friendship seems to have been buried with her!--Formality & Pretence are common enough, but Sincerity & affection are exceeding rare--Mrs _Carter_ thinks it better for _Ben_ to sleep at the Great-House til he grows better, for the advantage of giving him medicine--I seem now when it is late in the Evening, lonely, & a little fearful, at least I think on what I made a Subject for a merry Hour, when I was at Home last, & a young Lady was complaining of being fearful at Night, & afraid to sleep in a Room alone--There are now (asleep I suppose) in this House, below Stairs Mr _Randolph_, & Mr _Burney_ the Cooper; two clever lusty youngsters, & in the Room next to mine _Bob_ & _Harry_ sleep--I feel yet gloomy; _Ben_ is missing, & which is worse, he is sick--

_Wednesday 31._

Last Fryday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Teusday, & this Day have been perfectly fair, but yesterday & to Day are very hot--_Ben_ quits reading & is quite unwell--Dined with us Mr _Wadman_: He is, I believe, a Man of a good understanding, but desperate in his religious Principles--

_Thursday Septemr: 1st: 1774._

One other _Calm_, _sunny_, _sweltering_ day

The Colonel says it is the hottest Day we have had--I keep myself caged up in my Room, & cannot venture out on my usual _walk_ or Ride for exercise--Through divine goodness I continue in perfect Health, but as skinny & meagre as tho' I was continually sick--_Ben_ seems a little more pert today--Evening it Lightens in the North West.

_Fryday 2._

Extreme hot to day--Yesterday a Negro Child about six years old sickened as to appearance with the Ague & Fever, & to Day about eleven in the morning it expired! It is remarkable that the Mother has now lost seven successively, none of which have arrived to be ten years old!--The Negroes all seem much alarm'd, & our School make it a Subject for continual Speculation; They seem all to be free of any terror at the Prescence of Death; _Harry_ in special signified a Wish that his turn may be next. I should be glad if his desire were wise; & he was as fit for the business of the other world, as he seems willing to leave the business of this--In the evening this unexpected Death was the Subject of Conversation in the House--Mr _Carter_ observed, that he thought it the most desirable to die of a Short Illness. If he could have his Wish he would not lie longer than two days; be taken with a Fever, which should have such an unusual effect on his Body as to convince him that it would be fatal, and gradually increase till it affected a Dissolution--He told us that his affairs are in Such a state that he should be able to dictate a Will which might be written in five Minutes, & contain the disposal of his estate agreeable to his mind--He mentioned to us the Substance--"That he would leave Mrs _Carter_ 6000£ Serling; & leave the remainder of his Estate to be disposed among his children as the Law directs."--

He told us likewise, with great firmness, that if he hives [lives] to see his children grown, he will pay no regard to age, but give his wealth to Him who bids fairest to be useful to mankind--That he allows all an equal oppertunity of improvement, but the One who is found then improved shall with the Learning inherit also the Substance--_Dennis_ the Lad who waits at Table, I took into the School to day at his Fathers request, He can spell words of one syllable pretty readily. He is to come as he finds oppertunity.

_Saturday 3._

Indeed says Mrs Carter at Breakfast, the Lightning, Rain, & Thunder, disturbed me, & kept me padding from Room to Room all Night; I first had the Girls Beds removed as far as possible from the Chimneys--then had lights placed in the passage; and then but without _rest_ or _pleasure_, I wandered through the house silent & lonely like a disturbed Ghost!--It has however effected an agreeable change in the Air; which is now cool & agreeable. I was invited this morning by Captain _Fibbs_ [Gibbs] to a _Barbecue_: this differs but little from the Fish Feasts, instead of Fish the Dinner is roasted _Pig_, with the proper apendages, but the Diversion & exercise are the very same at both--I declined going and pleaded in ex[c]use unusual & unexpected Business for the School--By appointment is to be fought this Day near Mr _Lanes_ two fist Battles between four young Fellows. The Cause of the battles I have not yet known; I suppose either that they are lovers, & one has in Jest or reality some way supplanted the other; or has in a merry hour call'd him a _Lubber_, or a _thick-Skull_, or a _Buckskin_, or a _Scotchman_, or perhaps one has mislaid the others hat, or knocked a peach out of his Hand, or offered him a dram without wiping the mouth of the Bottle; all these, & ten thousand more quite as triffling & ridiculous, are thought & accepted as just Causes of immediate Quarrels, in which every diabolical Stratagem for Mastery is allowed & practised, of Bruising, Kicking, Scratching, Pinching, Biting, Butting, Tripping, Throtling, Gouging, Cursing, Dismembring, Howling, &c. This spectacle, (so loathsome & horrible!) generally is attended with a crowd of People! In my opinion, (others may think for themselves) animals which seek after & relish such odious and filthy amusements are not of the human species, they are destitute of the remotest pretension to humanity; I know not how they came by their form, by the help of which they are permitted to associate with Men, unless it has been (unfortunate for the World!) by an intermixture of the meaner kind of Devils with prostitute Monkeys!--This however, I cannot determine; But I think all such should be deemed by the community infectious, & suspended at least any kind of intercourse, til, either the lineage be settled & recorded, or those shrew'd Characteristicks of a spurious, illegitimate claim to kindred with men be in a good Measure abated.

_Sunday 4._

We had last night a flood of rain, the wind North East stormy--No Church to Day--Mr Carter sent down to his Mill-Dam, & channel all his people to try if they can secure them; he gives them Rum, & a Shilling a man--

I read Prayrs, by the desire of the Parents, at the Grave over the deceased Child _Priscilla_, _Nanccy_, _Fanny_, _Betsy_, _Ben_, _Bob_, _Harry_, & Myself, & about forty or fifty Negroes were present. Neither the Father nor the Mother of the Child went out; imitating the example they see in others, & stay from an affectation of overflowing Grief.

_Monday 5._

There is wonderful _To do_, this morning among the Housekeeper & children, at the great house. They assert that a Man or a Spirit came into the Nursery about one o-Clock this morning--That if it was indeed a Spirit the Cause of his appearance is wholly unknown; but if it was Flesh & blood they are pretty confident that the design was either to rob the House, or commit fornication with _Sukey_, (a plump, sleek, likely Negro Girl about sixteen)--That the doors & windows were well secured, but that by some secret manner, unknown to all, the _Thing_ opened the Cellar door, went through the Cellar, & up the narrow dark Stairs (which are used only on necessary occasions, as when the great Stair way is washing or on some such account)--That it left the said Cellar door standing open, & besides unbar'd, & threw open the East Window in the little Room, in order, as they wisely supposed, to have, if it should be hurried, a ready passage out--That it had previously put a small wedge in the Lock of the Nursery Door, where several of the young Ladies, & the said _Sukey_ sleep, so that when they were going to Bed they could not Lock nor bolt the door, but this they all believed was done in mischief by the children, & went thereupon to bed, without suspicion of harm, with the door open--That Sukey some time in the Night discovered Something lying by her Side which she knew to be a Man by his having Breeches--That She was greatly surprised, & cry'd out suddenly to the others that a Man was among them, & that the Man _tickled_ her, & said _whish, whish_--That on this She left the Bed & run & squeased herself in by the side of Miss Sally the House-keeper, but that by this time the Whole Room was awake & alarmed--That when the thing knew there was a discovery it stamped several times on the floor, shook the Bedstead by the side of which it lay, rattled the Door several Times & went down Stairs walking very heavy for one barefoot--That on its leaving the Room the Hous[e]Keeper went to Ben Carters Chamber, & that he rose & they all went down & found the Doors & window as I have mentioned--All this with many other material accidents is circulating through the family to Day; some conclude it was a Ghost because it would not speak--But, more probably it was one of the warm-blooded, well fed young Negroes, trying for the company of buxom _Sukey_--The Colonel however, at Breakfast gave out that if any one be caught in the House, after the family are at Rest, on any Pretence what ever, that Person he will cause to be hanged!--This Afternoon _Nelson_ the Lad who waits in our School, was in the woods about half a mile off, where he met with & kill'd a _Rattle-Snake_ having six Rattles--He cut off the head, & brought Home the remainder of the Body, which we have skin'd & stuff'd--Mrs Carter complains to Day of the Tooth-Ach, & a slight Fever.

_Teusday 6._

The day fine--It is whispered to Day that B... is the Ghost that walk'd in the Nursery the other night, but I think the report is false, and arises from calumny. We had an expectation of company to day, but are disappointed. We dined on Fish & Crabs, which were provided for our company, to-morrow being Fish-Day--I begun a Sermon Job XXIII. 3. 4. We have too vagrant Tinkers with us mending several articles, one of whom is this afternoon violent sick with the Fever & Ague--I rode to my old spot, the Corn field, by chance met with Mr Taylor. I walked with him among the Tobacco Cotton &c. He gave me Directions for raising the latter.--Cotton must be planted about the middle of May in rich Land, prepared with Hills, & made very mellow. When up it must be weeded & kept clean, it must be top'd & suckered as Tobacco, otherwise it runs too much to vine. Towards the Fall it will begin to open, when the opened pods mu[s]t be gathered & laid by til dry, then the Cotton pick'd out & clean'd--

_Wednesday 7._

Mrs Carter not very well; is troubled with a small tooth-Ach Fever & a Cold--Every leisure minute I spend in writing at my Sermon--Dined with us Mr Sorrel, & Mr .... on Fish, Rock, Perch, fine _Crabs_, & a large fresh _Mackerel_. Yesterday & to day I have been a little pained & pretty much alarmed, at an unusual feeling in my right arm. Almost all the Summer I have felt an obstruction when I would lift up my arm. But now it is a trembling steady _knawing_ down the under part of my arm & Wrist, without unless when I move it suddenly--Evening I walked throug the pasture to the River, the Hills are green, since the late rains, & look fine tip'd with the setting Sun.

_Thursday 8._

Cloudy & cool. I rise now by half after six--I found it necessary to flogg _Bob_ & _Harry_ on account of lying in bed, after I come into School--At twelve Mr & Mrs _Carter_, with all the Family except _Ben_, Harry & Myself; Ben staid of choice, & Harry I kept at Home on account of a sullen Impudence when I dismiss'd them--I told them that they both had my leave to go but at the same time it was my advice that they should stay--Harry then answered "D--n my Soul but i'll go!" At this I informed him that he had at once dismiss'd himself from my authority. & without singular signs of Submission I should never take him under my direction more--And therefore that he had general & unbounded Liberty to go not only to the Horse Race, but _where_ & _when_ he chose--He seem'd startled, & began to moderate his answer: I ordered him out of the Room, & told him to use his liberty. Mrs _Carter_ took with her all the young Ladies & all her children--_Ben_ & I with great satisfaction dined alone. Nelson, to Day, kill'd another Rattle Snake; near the place where he kill'd the other, which had twelve Rattles--Harry grew sick and refused to go to the Race, he came soon to my room & with every Sign of Sorrow for his conduct begg'd me to forgive him, at first I refused, but at length I took him in, yet informed him that I shall pass over no other instance of what may be called rudeness only.--The Colonel on his return, in the evening informed us that the Race was curious, & that the Horses were almost an even match--That the Betts were Drawn & no Money paid--That the Rider of one of the Horses weighed only forty Seven pound--Strange that so little substance in a human Creature can have strength & skill sufficient to manage a Horse in a Match of Importance--Something alarming happened a few nights ago in the Neighbourhood at Mr _Sorrels_[200] a House in sight--It is supposed that his Negres had appointed to murder him, several were found in his bed chamber in the middle of the night--his Wife waked--She heard a whispering, one perswading the other to go--On this She waked her Husband, who run to his Gun; but they escaped in the dark--Presumption is so strong together with a small confession of the Fellows, that three are now in Prison--The ill Treatment which this unhappy part of mankind receives here, would almost justify them in any desperate attempt for gaining that _Civility_, & _Plenty_ which tho' denied them, is here, commonly bestowed on Horses!--Now, Laura, I sleep in fear too, though my Doors & Windows are all secured!--

[200] Thomas Sorrel owned a plantation near "Nomini Hall" in Westmoreland County.

_Fryday 9._

Mr _Stadley_ came in before Breakfast. He inform'd us that Governor _Dunmore_ has gone to the Frontiers with about 400 Men to subdue the Indians--That the Indians seem disheartened, & leave their towns, & are unwilling to fight--Mrs _Carter_, out of Compliment, this morning presented to _Ben_ & _I_ for staying at home yesterday, a large fine _Cake_--Dined with us a Stranger--_Ben_ with great Humour either out of a _Bravado_ or for Revenge gave out in the Family to day that it is the opinion of a certain _Female_, of considerable Note in the family, that all the male Children which shall be born in this unlucky year, tho' they may be fair to the Sight, will be yet unable, from a Debility of Constitution, to do their Duty, with respect to Women, either married or single--That She has two reasons for this opinion,

1. Because the Air appears to her extremely _barren_, _weak_, & _ungenerative_--2. Because the Peaches, & other Fruit, are observed this year to have in them very few Kernels, at the same time that the Peaches are sweet & fair--I think that _Ben_, by this stratagem, whether it be real or otherwise, is levil with the invidious Vixen which suspected him of entering the Nursery to visit black-faced Sukey--

_Saturday 10._

With the Boys I Surveyed a small field lying along the Richmond Road; the Colonel has a good _Theodolite_ & other Aparatus for Surveying--English Magazines, & Reviews arrived to Day--One of the Books lately published I am desirous to purchase viz.--Dr _Henry's_ History of Great Britain on a new Plan. This history is to be contained in ten Books, each of which will be divided into seven chapters. In the first Chapter of every Book, the Author relates, the civil & military History of Great Britain--The second chapter contains the ecclesiastical History of the same period: the third presents us with the history of our political constitution, Government, Laws, & Courts of justice: the fourth is employed upon what relates to Learning & Learned men: the fifth investigates the State of the useful & ornamental Arts: the sixth enquires into that of commerce, Shipping, Money, with the prices of commodities: & the last Chapter of every Volume is alloted to a Detail of the Manners, Virtues, Vices, remarkable Customs, Language, Dress, Diet, & Diversions of the Great Britains--Six o-Clock, Mrs _Turberville_, Miss _Jenny Corbin_, and Miss _Turberville_ came in; Miss _Corbin_ has been, all the Summer, at her Brothers on Rapahanock forty miles distant.[201]--I saw, in the evening, in Mr Randalls[202] Room, a Young man about twenty years old, totally deaf, & dumb! He is well-set, lusty, & likely; he is cheerful, good natur'd, extremely dextrous, quick of apprehension, &, in short, very conversable, & sociable by signs--he was taken to the much famed Dr _Graham_,[203] when he was in this Colony trumpeting about his own unproved Abilities; he fumbled with the unfortunate Lad, by blooding, gouging, boreing &c. putting him to torture and expence without any possible expectation of help--He Sustains among his neighbours the Reputation of being, _honest_, _industrious_, & _useful_--He supports by Labour his mother, & himself; He is remarkably fond of Cloths; & vastly curious, & nice in examining every article of dress, where he has the smallest intimacy--He abstains entirely from strong Liquor.--And what most of all produced admiration in me, was his taking a Pen & writing his Name "_Coley Reed_" in a good legible Hand, better indeed, than the Bulk of planters are able to do! But he can write nothing more--

[201] Gawin Corbin of "Yew Spring" in Caroline County.

[202] Apparently Randolph Carter's clerk.

[203] There were frequent references in the _Virginia Gazette_ during the previous year to the arrival in Williamsburg of "Dr. Graham, the celebrated oculist and aurist, at Philadelphia."

_Sunday 11._

_Ben_ rode out yesterday after Dinner and returned this morning; but came on foot, I begin to suspect him of being actually engaged in what several alledge against him--But I will keep off so long as I possibly can, so unwelcome, so unwelcome & so Base a thought of its Reality--After Breakfast Mr _Stadley_ left us; I feel always Sorry when he leaves the Family; his entire _good-Nature_, _Cheerfulness_, _Simplicity_, & _Skill_ in Music have fixed him firm in my esteem--None go to Ucomico Church to day--Towards evening, I took a book in my hand, & strolled down the Pasture quite to the Bank of the River--Miss _Stanhope_, _Priss_, _Nancy_, _Fanny_ & _Betsy Carter_ were just passing by--They walked to the _Mill_; there they entered a Boat, & for exercise & amusement were rowed down the River quite to the granary, & then went to angling--I walked to them, & together we all marched Home to _Coffee_.

_Monday 12._

We threatned having a Fire this morning--I wrote at my Sermon--From the Ship lying at _Leeds_, arrived this afternoon our new Coach--It is a plain carriage, upper part black, lower Sage or Pea-Green--The Harness is neat strong, & suitable for the Country. Price 120£ Sterling--In the same Ship Mrs _Carter_ imports about 30£ value in plate in a pair of fashionable Goblets; Pair of beautiful Sauce-Cups; & a Pair of elegant Decanter-holders--_Ben_ introduced into our Room a plain useful Book-Case, in which we class & place our Books in order. after School, I took a Book, and walked through the Pasture strolling among Horses, Cows, & Sheep, grazing on the Hills & by the River.

_Teusday 13._

We thought of Fire this morning, but put it off--Ben's mare is not yet heard of, though he has had a Boy almost constantly searching about for her--It is curious to see the Girls imitating what they see in the great House; sometimes tying a String to a Chair & then run buzzing back to imitate the Girls spinning; then getting Rags & washing them without water--Very often they are knitting with Straws, small round stockings, Garters &c--Sometimes they get sticks & splinter one end of them f[o]r _Brushes_, or as they call them here _Clamps_, & spitting on part of the floor, they scrubb away with great vigor--& often at a small game with Peach-stones which they call _checks_--Evening after School I rode to the much Frequented Cornfield, Mr Taylor was from Home the evening cloudy, cool, but fine, The Planters now begin to cut their Tobacco.

_Wednesday 14._

Mr _Carter_ received word to day that he has had brought very lately for his Mill 7000 Bushels of Wheat at 4s 6d pr Bushel.--I am at a Loss to know where he will dispose of such vast Quantities!--The Colonel who is often pidling in some curious experiment, is to day making some Printers Ink--He tells me the Materials are Lint-seed-Oil, Wheat-Bread, Onions, & Turpentine, a rank compound truely--then for Black, Lamp-Black, red, Vermillion--_Ben_, found his mare lost in last Saturday's Visit, poor Brute! She was confin'd in the Pasture where he left her, in which being very large She had been concealed.--Mr _Smith_, who was wounded last Spring by a Shot of his Brother is lately dead, & it is said by the Wounds which he received from his Brother!--

_Thursday 15._

_Ben_ is much better: he has return'd to his Bed in my Room, but complains often of the pain in his Breast.--I put him to begin & read some select odes in Horace--He works arithmetic but is only in Reduction--He dispises Greek, & therefore makes little or no progress in that Language--He is reading in course the Eneid Lib 3--He has an unconquerable Love for Horses; he often tells me that he should have been a skilfull, & useful Groom; that he should be more fond & careful of a favourite Horse than of a _Wife_, or than his _victuals_, or than any thing whatever! I never saw a Person, in any Diversion, Recreation or amusement, who seemed so full of Pleasure & enjoyment as he is when on Horse back, or even in the company of a Horse! He seems to possess as warm a regard for them as Dr _Swift_ had for the Houyhnhnms--But I cannot discover that Ben has so cordial an enmity to Mankind as _Swift_ had for the Yahoos.--_Bobs_ passion for the same Animal is no less strong, but it is furious, & cruel, he rides excessive hard, & would ride always--_Harry's_ Genius seems towards Cocks, & low Betts, much in company with the waiting Boys, &, against my strongest Remonstrances, & frequent severe corrections, he will curse, at times, horribly, & swear fearfully! he always, however, omits it when I am Present.--

_Fryday 16._

Mrs _Carter_, this morning, with _Prissy_, _Nancy_, & _Bob_ went in the New-Coach to the _Dance_ at Stratford, the morning is mild, fair & cool--The Colonel informed me that now his Mill-House Bake-Houses, Store Houses &c. with a clear unobstructed navigation is compleated, & that, he will rent them all to a Person properly qualified--or gladly employ a person who is capable, trusty & industrious enough to be the sole Director of so great & valuable Property--Dined with us captain _Walker_--He threw out several exceeding unpopular Sentiments with regard to the present amazing Disturbances through the Colonies--One in special I think proper to record because it fixes his Character, & declares him, in Spite of all pretence, an enemy to America--He asserted that no Officers (at Boston or elsewhere) are obliged, either by Law, or Right, to question or refuse any kind of orders which they receive from their Sovereign, or commanding Officer--But I account every man, who possesses, & publishes such sentiments in this Crisis of the Fate of a vast Empire, as great an enemy to America at least, as Milton's _Arch-Devil_ was to Mankind!--After School, we took the Theodolite, the Colonel along, & run several Lines, He seems perfectly well acquainted with the Art.

_Saturday 17._

At eight I dismiss'd my small charge. Immediately after Breakfast I took some Boys, & went a Surveying; _Ben_, impatient of tiresome scurvy Home, strain'd off through the County--I run in to Dinner, the Colonel & I dined alone, we drank a Glass of Madeira, as a Health to absent Friends, after which I went again to the Field & survey'd till six in the evening; The Business of this Day has been to go round the inner Pasture About half an Hour after Sunset (when Women who love their Husbands & Families always come Home) Mrs Carter & the Girls arrived from Stratford She informed us that there was a large, genteel, and agreeable Company at the Dance; that the Ague & Fever have been & continue troublesome in that Neighbourhood; & that Word is arrived from Boston that Governor Gage has fired on the Town, & that it is expected his orders are to burn & beat it to Destruction! _Ben_ returned about seven from Westmoreland Courthouse--He informed us that Mr _Sorrels_ Negroes had their trial there to Day, concerning their accusation of entering their Masters House in the night with an intention to murder Him--It was there proved (so far as Negroes evidence will go) that a Brother of this Sorrels early last Spring bribed some Negroes to Poison his Brother; & when that diabolical Attempt could not succeed, he has since tried to perswade them to murder Him!--But all Evidence against the Negroes was so weak & dark that the judges ordered them to be whiped & dismised them--Though the Law considers all Testimony given by a Negro against a White-Man as weak & unsubstantial; yet what the Negro said to Day on Oath of the younger Mr Sorrel, seems to gain much Belief with many who are candid, & unbiased Judges; & with me beyond all Scruple, it fixes on him the cursed Character of a _Fratricide_!--

_Sunday 18._

The Colonel gave me, at Breakfast the offer of a Seat in his Boat to Church. The Morning was fine, & Nomini-River alive with Boats Canoes &c some going to Church, some fishing, & some Sporting--Mr _Smith_ gave us a very practical Sermon against the common vices here, in particular against the practise of abusing Slaves--The report concerning Boston is much talked off & still confirmed!--We dined all at Mr Turberville's; Miss _Corbin_ looks _fresh_ & _plump_ as ever. Towards evening arose a pretty furious Thunder-Gust, which we hardly escaped on our way home I observed that several, but in special Mr _Carter_ is not pleased with Mr Smith's Sentiments of Slavery.

_Monday 19._

The morning fine & cool, & produces in our School at last a fine Fire!--Fire looks & feels most welcome; and I observe it makes our children remarkably garrulous & noisy--I took cold by Saturdays unusual exercise, & to Day have a Pain through my head, sore throat, & the other common troubles in a Cold--This Day begins the examination of The Junior class at Nassau-Hall. Every time I reflect on that Place of retirement & Study, where I spent two years which I call the most pleasant as well as the most important Period in my past life--Always when I think upon the _Studies_, the _Discipline_, the _Companions_, the _Neighbourhood_, the _exercises_, & _Diversions_, it gives me a secret & real Pleasure, even the Foibles which often prevail there are pleasant on recollection; such as giving each other _names_ & _characters_; Meeting & Shoving in the dark entries; knocking at Doors & going off without entering; Strowing the entries in the night with greasy Feathers; freezing the Bell; Ringing it at late Hours of the Night;--I may add that it does not seem disagreeable to think over the Mischiefs often practised by wanton Boys--Such are writing witty pointed anonymous Papers, in _Songs_, _Confessions_, _Wills_, _Soliliques_, _Proclamations_, _Advertisements_ &c--Picking from the neighbourhood now & then a plump fat Hen or Turkey for the private entertainment of the Club "instituted for inventing & practising several new kinds of mischief in a secret polite Manner"--Parading bad Women--Burning Curse-John--Darting Sun-Beams upon the Town-People Reconoitering Houses in the Town, & ogling Women with the Telescope--Making Squibs, & other frightful compositions with Gun-Powder, & lighting them in the Rooms of timorous Boys, & new _comers_--The various methods used in naturalizing Strangers, of incivility in the Dining-Room to make them bold; writing them sharp & threatning Letters to make them smart; leading them at first with long Lessons to make them industrious--And trying them by Jeers & Repartee in order to make them choose their Companions &c &c--Evening after School with Mrs Carter, & the Girls I took a Walk thro the Pumpkin & Potatoe Vines. the Air is clear, cold & healthful. We drank our Coffee at the great House very sociably, round a fine Fire, the House And air feels like winter again.

_Teusday 20._

Among the many womanish Fribbles which our little Misses daily practise, I discovered one to Day no less merry than natural; _Fanny_ & _Harriot_ by stuffing rags & other Lumber under their Gowns just below their Apron-Strings, were prodigiously charmed at their resemblanc to Pregnant Women! They blushed, however, pretty deeply on discovering that I saw them--We have to day both in the School & great-house steady Fires--Mr _Thomas Edwards_ a reputable Planter in the Neighbourhood died this day about one o-Clock--I saw him last Sunday at Church when he was in good Health; was taken the same Evening, & hurried off at once!--Frail Man, how easily subdued!--

_Wednesday 21._

We have a more particular account of the Death of Mr _Edwards_. About a twelve-month ago, he was suddenly siezed with a Fit of the Palsy, his Foot, Side, Arm, & part of his Face then failed, & became useless, after some time, however, he grew better, & has since been apparently well; til Sunday evening last after the Shower, as he was walking in his Garden, he fell down in an instant, there happened to be help at hand, he only said these emphatical Words--"_Now I must die_"--He was carried in, & expired as I mentioned yesterday!--I am told that the Flux is in the upper part of this County--My cold continues; in the Evening on going to bed, I took a dose of Honey & Rum--

_Thursday 22._

A pure cold northerly wind still blows, & we all keep Fires--Peaches & Fruit are omitted at Dinners, & Soup or Broth is brought in; Milk and Hominy at Breakfast too are laid by & Coffee & Sage Tea brought in; Our Suppers are Coffee & Bred & butter--_Neatness_ _variety_ & _Plenty_ are reigning Characters in our worthy oconomist Mrs Carter. I read to Day, & am charm'd with a ---- of Lord Chesterfield. Letters to his natural Son, which I propose to purchase--After School, with Ben, I took a walk to Mr Turberville's--He has received a line from Colonel Lee at Philadelphia that the Congress is going on--That the account concerning Boston is false--Evening Lancelot Lee came in, & staid the night--He gave Ben & myself an Invitation to dine with him tomorrow, I took out of the Library & began to read Watts's Logic--

_Fryday 23._

I spent some time in reviewing Geography & Logic--Mr Lee left us about twelve, & Ben rode out with him--Evening from Mr Turberville's I saw some _Barberry's_, _Sloes_, & _Pomegranates_, neither of which I had seen before--

_Saturday 24._

Together with my Cold I have to Day a most disagreeable gathering on my middle Finger--I keep myself at home reading Logic--Evening the Colonel invited me to walk with him; he took me to his Mill, _Coopers_, _House_, _Channel_, _Meadows_ &c, and was vastly particular in describing to me their particular uses--I begin to look with eager Sollicitude to the time of my revisiting my friends & Relations--It is, happily near--

_Sunday 25._

The morning clear cool & very dry--I rode to Ucomico-Church, I was surprised when the Psalm begun, to hear a large Collection of voices singing at the same time, from a Gallery, entirely contrary to what I have seen befor in the Colony, for it is seldom in the fullest Congregation's, that more sing than the Clerk, & about two others!--I am told that a singing Master of good abilities has been among this society lately & put them on the respectable Method which they, at present pursue--I dined at _Mr Fishers_, among others I saw there, Dr _Steptoe_, & Mr _Hamilton_ who have lately been to Philadelphia--They give various Reports concerning political affairs, & as to the Congress nothing certain, so that I say nothing on that Score--Their Remarks on the City & Inhabitants; The Country &c are curious--They allow the City to be fine, neat, & large; they complain a little of the small Rooms, Uniformity of the Buildings, & several other like faults--They call the Inhabitants grave & reserved; & the Women remarkably homely, hard favour'd & sour!--One Colonel Harrison[204] from a lower County in this Colony, offer'd to give a Guinea for every handsome Face that could be found in the City, if any one would put a Copper on every Face that did not come up to that Character!--This is an impeachment of the Ladies which I have never heard before, I do not give my opinion either for or against it--The face of the Country, & the method of farming that way delights them: but at this I dont wonder.

[204] Probably Benjamin Harrison of "Berkeley" in Charles City County, who attended the Congress in Philadelphia in 1774.

_Monday 26._

Yesterday the Inspector, whom I have named & described before, desired the Parson to wait on them in his family and christen his Child--Is the child sick? No Sir--Why then today? it is the Mothers Desire Sir--Why was it not brought to Church? The Mother is unwell, Sir--The Parson excused himself, & promised to come some Days hence, but the long winded officer, inured to Stubbornness, hung on, &, without moderation or Apology _demanded_ his presence!--And prevail'd.-- Something in our palace this Evening, very merry happened--Mrs _Carter_ made a dish of Tea. At Coffee, she sent me a dish--& the Colonel both ignorant--He smelt, sipt--look'd--At last with great gravity he asks what's this?--Do you ask Sir--Poh!--And out he throws it splash a sacrifice to Vulcan--

_Teusday 27._

This morning the Colonel with his Theodolite observed the Centre of the Sun at his rising, & found it bore East 5° South--This he is doing to fix a true East & West Line for regulating the Needle at any time. This Bearing he corrected by finding the Suns Declination, & fixed his Points--After the morning we let our fire go down--Both yesterday, & this evening I rode out to exercise myself & horse against our approaching Journey--Mr _Hodge_, a Merchant of _Leeds_ & Mr _Leech_ a Merchant of Dumfries came Home with the Colonel from Westmoreland-Court-- Both chatty, in special Mr Leech; both well-bred, sensible, & sociable--The loyal Toast was _Wisdom_ & _unity_ to the Conferrences now assembled--And when Women were to be toasted, I gave Miss _Jenny Washington_.--

_Wednesday 28._

The weather remarkably dry, since Sunday sennight, we have not had a drop of Rain, nor even a cloudy Sky, and till yesterday, & steady, cold, serene northerly Wind--To Day is the annual Commencement at Nassau Hall--

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO MR. LARKIN RANDALL]

[Nomini Hall. September 28 (?) 1774] MR RANDALL.

You will please to acquaint Mr Rigmaiden[205] that I received and looked over his Note, and should have attempted to answer it but for the following reasons. I observe that the first author of the question very rudely calls Mr Rigmaiden a fool for not working it by Cross-Multiplication.

[205] In 1771 William Rigmaiden was the master of a free school in Richmond County that was supported by Landon Carter. _William and Mary College Quarterly_, Vol. XIII, series 1, p. 158.

And I observe too that Mr Rigmaiden throws back the word fool, (I suppose in revenge) upon the other, and if I should intermeddle in the case it is more than probable, that I should be called the third fool, by either the one or the other, at least I think the hazard of this too great to set against any Honour I could recieve by resolving it--But since Mr _Rigmaiden_ intimates in his note that he is at something of a loss to know whether himself or the other have the least claim to the character; I shall propose a question in arithmetick, which will fully decide any dispute of this nature, for I pronounce the man who can work it off at once, to be no fool in figures.

A Man has 5000£ which he puts to interest for 30 years 6£ per Cent. per Annum. I demand how much of this he must spend every day, to spend it all, principal and interest in the thirty years, and let the daily sums in the whole time be equal?

As to the question given, "to Multiply 12£ 12s 12½d by itself", It must have been a punn, or from one not well skill'd in figures. If it was the former, it does not deserve to be answered at all, because that would be indulging wanton impertinence; and if it was the latter, I am not able to understand how such a person should venture to question Mr _Rigmaidens_ answer--Upon the whole, I am apt to think it is all a punn which, "Brother Quill" (as he is pleased to style himself) has ventured to throw out, and on this account, until I am better satisfied that the sentiment is genuine, I decline wholly entering farther into the matter.

I am, Sir, Yours P V FITHIAN TO MR LARKIN RANDELL

Nomini Hall.

[JOURNAL]

_Thursday 29._

Warm to day, but dry & clear. Mr _Leech_ & Mr _Hodge_ spent last evening with us; the Conversation was on exchange--Loyal Toasts, _Agreement_, & _Firmness_ through the american Colonies--Ladies. mine was Miss Corbin--The Colonel informed us that early next week he shall set out for Williamsburg--Soon after I hope to set out for Cohansie!

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO BENJAMIN CARTER]

Nomini Hall Septr: 29th. 1774.

"Aetas Parentum, pejor avis, tulit Nos nequiores; mox daturos Progeniem vitiosiorem."

SIR.

You will comprehend, at once, the design of Horace in the Ode from which this motto was taken, And, perhaps, you may think the application of it here unmeaning, and impertinent. In order to free you wholly from every such secret suspicion, you will please to take notice, that the dignity of your very respectable family, (which is a sacred thing) depends almost entirely upon your _Capacity_, _improvement_, and _behaviour_, an attempt, therefore, to guide and enlarge either or all of these may not be called unmeaning; and, as you have honoured me for some time past in the character of a Tutor, by submitting to my advice and instruction, I cannot suppose you so utterly destitute of candour and gratitude as to put the name of impertinence on what is the _close_ and _sum_ of my duty to you: especially as there is but little probability that I shall ever see you more, and can, therefore, have no possible incitement from interest, to flatter nor oppertunity of indulging any kind of revenge. These remarks, I presume, are sufficient to remove from you any hurtfull prejudice. I therefore go on, to make several observations with moderation and freedom, which, at least, I hope you will duely consider, and if they please you, practise. Give me leave then, first of all to tell you, That you possess a critical tho' a high station, and that in your road throug[h] life you are liable to innumerable dangerous [dev]iations. On many accounts your station is critical; I shall enumerate only a few.

--The rest is lost--

TO MR BEN CARTER

[JOURNAL]

_Fryday 30._

Warm, but clear & dry--Dined with us Mr _Blain_; He gave us a large account of affairs at the Congress, of the City, Country, Manners, Persons, Trade &c--But he swears the Women are coarse & hardy--Evening I informed the Colonel that it is hardly probable I shall continue in his family til his return from the general Court, & at the same time, desired him to give me a discharge so that I expect to have all things adjusted before he leaves Home--We have now entered on the Winter plan, have Coffee just at evening & Supper between eight & nine o-Clock--It is wonderful to consider the Consumption of provisions in this family--I have before spoken of Meat, & the steady Rate of flour weekly, for the great House is 100Lb of which 50 is the finest, & 50 the Seconds--But all the Negroes, & most of the Labourers eat Corn.

_Saturday October 1st. 1774._

Wind South West cloudy. After Breakfast with the Boys I went a Surveying along the River round the lower pasture at twelve, _Ben_, _Bob_, _Harry_ all gallop off--I spent the afternoon plotting my work--I paid Sam our Barber for _Blacking_, _Dressing_ &c 12/.

_Sunday 2._

Parson Smith is out of the Parish so that we have no service--With _Ben_ I rode to Mr _Washingtons_. Mr Lowe again absent--Dined with us Mrs _Turberville_, Miss _Corbin_, Miss _Pierce_--we found the Colonel in the evening busy at his Instrument of Music--We drank our Coffee & retired early to our Room, & read til ten, then thanking our bountiful Preserver we retired to our bed.--

_Monday 3._

I gave Tom the Hostler, for his care of my Horse 3s--After Breakfast the Colonel settled & paid me for my Years Service 40£ Sterling--This is better than the scurvy annuity commonly allowed to the Presbyterian Clergy--He is very Busy in adjusting his affairs, he set out however, by twelve for Williamsburg, after taking final leave of me--_Ben_ accompanies him to Richmond Court--Afternoon Miss Corbin & Miss Turberville came in to stay a while with Mrs _Carter_. Bob went yesterday to Mr Lanes there was Parson _Gibbern_ ill of his last weeks Bout; he was up three nights successively drinking & playing at Cards, so that the liquor & want of sleep put quite out of his Sences--A rare tale this to relate of a Man of God!--To use the language of the vulgar, "Old Satan will sadly belabour such overgrown Sinners"!--

_Teusday 4._

Dined with us Mrs Turberville and Miss _Letty_ we were all Tete a Tete, vastly merry & garrulous--I gave Nelson for a Stirrup Buckle a Bit--I am preparing my Saddle. Cloth's, Bags, Horse, & myself for the intended Ride--

_Wednesday 5._

Dined with us Mr Taylor, he informs us that the crops of Tobacco are like to be good--Evening I wrote a Letter to Mrs Thornton Northumberland, concerning Mr Leek's coming into her Family as a Tutor--I had a fine walk with the young Ladies through the Pasture--They make me proud by expressing much concern at my necessary Departure, throwing out many Wishes that I would continue with them--

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO MRS CHARLOTTE THORNTON]

Nomini Hall. Octr. 5th. 1774. MADAM.

I saw Mr Leek last Spring, and, as directed by Colonel Taylor,[206] I enquired if he would undertake the education of several children in this Colony: he seem'd willing, but would make no promise, nor enter into any agreement til he is fully instructed as to the number and standing of his pupils, the conditions of the agreement, and time when he is to begin.

[206] Colonel John Tayloe.

I expect to return shortly to Philadelphia, and write these to acquaint you that I would willingly forward a letter to him, if you are yet desirous of employing him to instruct your family.

you will please, Madam, if you think proper to write, to direct the letter thus "To Mr Samuel Leek junr: Cohansie, New Jersey--"

I shall leave this place about the 18th instant.

I am Madam, your Most humble Servt: P V FITHIAN

TO MRS CHARLOTTE THORNTON _Northumberland_

[JOURNAL]

_Thursday 6._

I paid Natt who drives the Team half a Bit as a Forfeit for taking hold of his plough--And to Harry 18d for a stirrup-leather & sundry other Articles--The School presented me with a petition formally drawn up for a holiday to day on account of the race at Mr Turberville's, which I granted--_Priscilla_, _Nancy_, _Ben_, & _Bob_ go Harry & I, making in my opinion the wisest choice both stay.

[PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO HARRY WILLIS AND ROBERT BLADEN CARTER]

Nomini Hall Octr: 6th. 1774. FOR MASTERS HARRY & BOB.

I approve highly of the method you have taken in asking for liberty to attend the race this afternoon, and think myself bound to give you an answer in the same manner.

This Race happening so soon after the other, which was at the same place, and so much like it seems to promise nothing that can require your attendance, it is therefore my _desire_ and _advice_ that you stay contented at home. But if your inclination be stronger than either of these, and you still choose to go, you have my consent provided you return by Sun set in the Evening.

Yours PHILIP V FITHIAN

[JOURNAL]

_Fryday 7._

Nancy, & Bog go to the Dance at Schantille[207]--Mrs Carter after Breakfast took _Prissy_, _Fanny_ & Harriot, & made Mrs Washington a Visit, _Ben_, _Harry_, Betsy & I are left at Home alone I spent to Day in writing off Mr Peck's Letter--Evening I am troubled with a drunken Carpenter; he saw a Light in my Chamber--up he bouzes, with a Bottle of Rum in his hand; Who keeps Home?--I asked him in--Have you any water Sir?--Not any I told him--Not a Drop, Sir?--No--My Flute was lying on the Table, he took it for a Trumpet & tooted in for two or three Minutes Then again he begs, O Sir call in a Servant & have me some Water--But I left the Room glad to be free of his foolish Impertinence. At Supper Mrs Carter informed us that Captain _Walker's_ little Son has the putrid Quinsey, but we hope it is only a bad sore Throat by a Cold--I have a Complaint of a painful Jaw, for these several Days

[207] "Chantilly."

_Saturday 8._

Expence to the Smith for mending my Stirrup a Pisterene 1/3--Ben this morning Wrote a letter to his Papa--I finished off mine for Mr Peck The Pain in my face is a good deal troublesome. Dined with us Colonel Frank Lee & his Lady; Mr Turberville Mrs Turberville & Miss Letty.

_Sunday 9._

_Ben_ & _Harry_ ride to Ucomico Church I at home spend the day in my Room, I walked out towards evening & saw a number of Negroes very busy at framing together a small House--Sundays they commonly spend in fishing making Potatoes &c, building & patching their Quarters or rather Cabins--

_Monday 10._

The General Court at Williamsburg begins to sit this Day--We have no intelligence of the carryings on of the Congress; our Papers this Summer come vastly seldom, it is said that the Post Men are bribed & give away the News Papers. I expect that Mr Peck is about setting out from Home for this place--I wish him a speedy & successful passage, for I am now impatient of Delay til I visit again my acquaintances & Home--The day is cold, the wind at North & the ground extremely dry--

_Teusday 11._

Mr _Stadley_ came this morning. He brings no news of the Congress, but much of the great Race lately at Fredericksburg--Every Evening, for the Benefit of exercise I ride out, and commonly carry with me one of the small Girls, who partaking of the prevailing Spirit, are passionately fond of Riding--

_Wednesday 12._

I was told often before I left Home that coming into Virginia would bring me into the midst of many dangerous Temptations: Gay Company, frequent entertainments, little practical devotion, no remote pretention to Heart religion, daily examples in Men of the highest quality, of Luxury, intemperance, & impiety: these were urged, by my kind acquaintances, as very strong dissuasions against my leaving home; the admonitions I accepted with great Thankfulness, tho' I could not allow them to turn me off from my purpose & I resolved with as much sincerity & Firmness as I could to carry them with me in every part of my behaviour. The close of the time of my Stay here is I expect now near at hand: And if I may judge myself of the carrying my resolutions into practice, I should pronounce that I have not been wanting in my duty in this respect. Some few who frequently ask me to go from home, say I am dull, unsociable, & splenetic: But the Gentlemen generally here have a good & reasonable manner of judging in this case they are well pleased with strict & rigid virtue in those who have the management of their children, if it does not grow to factious enthusiasm; so that Levity, tho perhaps they would wink at it lessens, & in a while would take away the Reputation & business of a Family Tutor--Of this I was fully convinced in a short time after my coming into the Colony, & saw too the very great advantage of the Precaution which I received from my friends, for they assisted me in setting out on a safe, and prudent Plan, which has, I hope directed me to propriety of conduct with regard to my private character, & likewise to my little lovely Charge.

_Thursday 13._

Good Mr Stadley left us this morning. I took leave with great reluctance of this worthy Man, & do not expect to see him more!--After Breakfast Mrs Carter with the young Ladies, rode to Colonel Tayloe's. My jaw continues growling & keeps me uneasy, I very much fear some hurtful humours are collecting themselves there together--To day at twelve o-Clock _Bob_ providentially escaped with his life--He went up into a tall Chesnut tree to cut down Boughs & gather Chesnuts & foolishly he began to cut the Limb on which he was standing, at a little distance from his feet--Chesnut splits extremely easy, so that when the Limb was about half cut off it split down; this so weaked the part on which Bob stood that his weight instantly split it too, & down he must have tumbled upwards of thirty feet but he happily caught a bough on his way down.--

_Fryday 14._

The Disorder in my face continues, slow, uniform, & Steady; it does not hinder me from rest by night or from any exercise or business by day; But It keeps me in continual doubt, & anxiety, whether it be not something gathering which will be peculiarly distressful--But my temper, I fear, in these respects is very phlegmatic; I find it unpleasing to myself, & it would be certainly unpleasant to any one who was interested in my complaints--I am of so strange a constitution that very trifles make me utterly unhappy--A mere conceit, frivolous & unsubstantial often takes away my rest--This feeling I have possest from my infancy; I remember very well that a Cuff on my Ear would make me sullen for Several days when I was too young to go out to school; Afterwards a disappointment of an hours play would mak me disrelish for a long time both play-fellows, & all Diversion! When I was at the College one Blunder at recitation, or in any performance of my duty would make one [me] dull, low-Spiritted, & peevish; In fact any disappointment, even the most inconsiderable seems to have a general Effect on my Passions & mingle fear, & anger, & rage, together with many others which are excited by different & disagreeable modifications of our Bodies, &, tho' I am conscious of this frailty in myself, I have not yet brought myself under so good subjection, as to make these humours give way intirely to Philosophy or Religion--It is, however, my constant study how I may accomplish this much wish'd for habit--While we are dining there is a large shower of rain but by no means plentiful, for the earth is uncommonly dry--Mrs _Carter_ to day asked me if Mr Peck is to be here before my setting out: I answered that he is--And says she, is he grave as you?--

_Saturday 15._

I rode after Breakfast to Dr Thompsons with a settled purpose of having my troublesom tooth drawn out but on examination he found it to be too far back, & too short to be extracted--More sorry I.--Dined with us besides the family, Mr _Munro_, young Mr Washington, and Master Christien--Here is a fine Prospect from an exceeding high eminence, of the Potowmack; River Nominy; our House, which is six miles distant; Lee Hall Bush-field; all remote.--Evening I rode Home, the country pleasant Bought several articles as presents for the young Ladies, a neat gilt paper Snuff Box for Miss Priscilla, a neat best clear Hair-Comb a piece for Miss Nancy & Fanny. A broad elegant Sash a piece for Miss Betsy & Harriot Value of all 15s. Soon after my return, when I was in the Chamber adjusting my articles Ben came bawling at my window Mr Peck's come, Mr Peck's come! I step'd to the window, & saw presently that what he said was fact, my Heart bounc'd & I with it bolted down to meet him But he comes empty of a letter, & barren of news, at least all he brings seems gloomy; none at all of the great Congress; very little of the present momentious political affairs; that it has been at Cohansie an unhealthy season; that good & useful Mr Hunter has been ill of a disorder in his head: that Mrs Reve is gone & left a Brood of infants! that young _Tom Jennifer_ of Port-Tobacco, my acquaintance at College too is dead! that matters go in their usual course at Cohansie & Princeton; that _Laura_ is not in new Jersey! All his intelligence is similar to this, which is to me harsh & unharmonious as a Ravens ominous Croak!--To Day Harry boil'd up a Compound of Poke-Berries, Vinegar, Sugar &c to make a red Ink or Liquid--I spent the evening til two in the morning in conversation.

_Sunday 16._

A fine morning--We rose by Seven but we were informed that there is no Sermon so that out of compliment to Mr Peck's weariness we kept close at home rathar than ride to Richmond. We spent the Day in our chamber til towards evening when with the young Ladies we took a turn down the River Many we saw fishing--Mrs Carter with _Priss_ rode to Captain Turberville's--We all return'd and assembled by evening at the great House--

_Monday 17._

Before Breakfast I heard all the School a lesson round Mr Peck Present--After Breakfast I heard their Tables, Grammer &c & then in Spite of my resolution with great reluctance, I resigned up to Mr Peck my little much-loved Charge!--The pain in my Face is quite gone--To day I saw a Phenomenon, Mrs Carter without Stays!--She complains of a pain in her breast, that prevents her wearing them, she says that She is always supposing the worst, & fears it is a Cancer breeding there--I hope it may be only fear--I am more & more every day pleased with the manner, Temper, Oconomy, & whole management of this good Lady--Now I am to take my final Leave!--Towards evening we all went down on the River & had a pleasant exercise--

_Teusday 18._

Early to Day I wrote a Note to Mr Lowe and Harry Fantleroy to dine with us to day, & soon received their promise--After Dinner with Mr Lowe on the violin, I play'd over many tunes on the Flute, he plays with good Taste and accuracy--At five we all walk'd over to Mr Turberville's--I gave to our Wash-Woman some old Linen & as a Box 2/4--We spent the evening in Music Chat & pleasantry--But this said thing which I hear of that turn-Coat _Laura_, that She loves & courts one Mr _Rodman_ this distresses me exceedingly But this relieves me, for I have had it always in my View that--Varium & mutabile semper Feminae--Tho I have made a Solemn vow which I have no inclination at all to forego, yet if it shall appear that she has listened to another, my dearest vow is not inviolable; I will retreat from every former Promise, I will not hearken to womanish solicitations, but I shall in return for her want of goodness treat her with contempt; & Sincerely pity, instead of resent, her ineffectual Caprice--

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO JOHN LOWE]

Nomini-Hall Octr: 18th: 1774. FOR MR LOWE.

Ben: Carter's compliments with mine wait on you this morning, and beg your company with us to day to dine, if it be convenient.

We also present our compliments and the same request to Mr Fantleroy.

I should not have ventured to encroach upon your hours of business, but as Mr Peck, the gentleman who succeeds me in this family arrived last saturday so that I propose to set out tomorrow and should be glad to see you before I leave Virginia.

I am, Sir, Your most humble Servt. P V FITHIAN.

[JOURNAL]

_Wednesday 19._

Mr Lowe & Fantleroy left us early But I agreed to stay till tomorrow--I gave to Nelson on going away 2/2--To Miss Sally the House-Keeper 5/.--

_Thursday 20._

I rose by three, & left Home by half after four--Gave Nelson & Dennis half a Bit a piece--rode thence to Westmoreland Court House ten Miles by half after six--Fed my Horse & drank some Brandy--Expence a Bit--Rode thence to Mattox Bridge 18 miles--Fed here three quarts of Bran & Corn for a Bit--The Bloody-Flux is now extremely bad in this Neighbourhood--I am told that scarce a Family is clear of it, & of every family some die!--Rode thence to _Tylers_ Ferry 8 miles the road extremely dry & dusty--At two I set off for Maryland, the wind fresh at South East arrived at Mrs Laidlers by five Ferriage 7/6 I gave the Ferrymen a Bottle of Rum--Here I dined on fryed Chicken, Ham, with good Porter--Accomodations good--I[n] Bed by half after Seven--

_Fryday 21._

Directly over my Room was a sick Woman that kept a dismal groaning all night--My window-Shutters Clapt the Potowmack howl'd, yet I Slept--My Bill at Mrs Laidlers--A Bottle of Porter 2/. Dinner 1/3 Bed./6d--Bottle of Rum for Ferrymen 1/3--Gallon Oats./8d--Stable & Foder 1/.--A smart looking Girl at Mrs Laidlers made me smile--She was complaining to me of the unhealthy Climate, that these three months past she has had a constant Ague & Fever, & been in the Country only six months--Pray Miss said I did you come from Britain?--No Sir, I came from London--Rode thence to Port-Tobacco--It has been extremely sickly here this Fall--Bill to Barber 1s/8--Breakfast 1/--Hay and Oats 1/3--Mrs Halkinson my Landlady, a poor aged, distress'd Widow, when she found that I was acquainted with her little son at Princeton, seemed a little to revive; she beg'd me to encourage her Son to be diligent & industrious, to caution & admonish him from h[er] against bad company & wicked practices--She told me of her great & sore loss of an only Daughter, a young woman of 15 this Summer, since which, she told me in tears, that She has been a stranger to health & Quiet--O relentless Death!--How universal & severe are thy Commissions! From Mrs Laidlers to Port Tobacco is called 13 miles--I rode thence thro' a fog of Dust to Piscatua 14 miles. The Landlady here is very ill--That dismal disorder the bloody-Flux has been extremely bad at Port-Tobacco, & in the Neighbourhood of this town, but is subsided--Expence here half a Gill of Brandy./3d--Oats & Fodder./6d--Left this Village half after four, and rode to upper-Marlborough, almost blinded with sweat & dust!--Arrived by seven, a little tired this Evening--Distance 16 Miles--Whole distance yesterday including the Ferry 8 miles 44 Miles--Whole Expence 8/7--That epidemical distemper above mentioned has been likewise raging in the Neighbourhood of this Town--Bill at Marlborough To Tea 1/3--To lodging ./8--To Oats 1/1--To stabling 1/.--

_Saturday 22._

Rode thence to Patuxen Ferry 4 mile Ferriage./6d--Thence to South River 12 miles, Ferriage./6d--To Boy ./4--Thence to Annapolis 4 miles--Bill here To Dinner & Club 4/6--To Hay & Oats 1/3--To two Silver watch Seals 15/6 To half Gallon Rum for Ferryman 2/6--To Hay for Horse /8--To Barber 1/--Left Annapolis at 6 no wind returned about 8 to the Coffee-House To Ferriage across the Bay 17/6--

_Sunday 23._

Teusday evening last the people of this Town & of Baltimore obliged one Anthony Stewart a Merchant here to set fire to a Brig of his lately from London in which was 17 Chests of Tea--The People seem indeed to be full of patriotic Fire--Second Bill at Annapolis--Supper 1/6--Lodging ./9 Hay 1/3--2 Gallons Oats 1/6--Articles for the Voyage 4/.--Landed about 5 at Kent-Island,[208] rode thence to a small Ferry for Oats & Ferriage 1/.--thence we rode to Queens Town 15 miles[209]--Bill there 5/2½

[208] Kent Islands, Maryland.

[209] Queenstown, Queen Anne County, Maryland.

_Monday 24._

Rode from Queens Town over a low levil Country 7 miles to a small Tavern--Breakfasted 1/7 rode thence by a small Town call'd Churchill--thence to the Head of Chester River 22 miles here I dined my Company gone to the Chester Races which happen to morrow--Expence 2/4 Rode thence to Warwick 12 miles My Horses feet swell this Evening

_Teusday 25._

Bill at Warwick--supper 1/3--Oats./8--Stable Hay & Lodging 2/.--Glass of Wine Bitters./4--Rode thence to Port Penn 15 miles expence there 1/7--Ferriage 5/.--Arrived once more by Gods Kindness in New-Jersey among my friends & relations I found many of my Acquaintances have gone off the Stage Uncle _Seeley_; _Damon James_; Mrs _Reeve_; _James Boyd_; & several others--And many are Sick--Our Family through divine Goodness are in Health.--

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO ELIZABETH BEATTY]

Greenwich Novem: 30: 1774. TO LAURA.

--The Widow left the Room after begging that I would stay to Coffee--I was seated near the Toilet on which Miss had thrown her Piece of Drawing.--I viewed it, She saw me, & began a fine Apology--That her Situation is so lonely, being out of the Way of Entertainment by Company!--That Music & Drawing are her chief & necessary Amusements--That She was glad of the Opportunity of an Hours Conversation even of an utter Stranger--That She came to America about the 20th: of last May, with a Brother who is since returned--That her Aunt is desirious She may stay in Mary-land & be a Companion and Intimate with her--That since July She has had the Ague and Fever, which had left her only a few Days--And, said She, I want very much to up to Philada:--I heard all this with great Attention & Patience;--When She had finished her Story, I asked her in turn several Questions which she answered with Propriety, & the greatest Apparent Frankness--Til She came to the Answer which I have before set down, then I smil'd--You came then from Britain, Miss--No Sir, I came from London!--Fearing a Proposal to wait on her down to Annapolis, & thence to Philadelphia, the moment I had drank two Dishes of Coffee, which was a few Minutes before Sunset I mounted & rode twenty Miles--

Do you know Mr ---- who lodged at Mrs ---- in Philada said P.---- to me as we were sitting together in the Parlour this rainy Afternoon, she sewing at a Lawn Wrist-band, & I pouting over Watts's Logic--Yes, Madam, I have some Acquaintance with him--And he knows Miss ---- said She, I saw him last Spring at Mr A---- She had sometime before told him that you was remarkably & impertinently intimate with Miss Beatty--That She herself, & Miss Beatty both had disapproved of your Conduct, & had by themselves, agreed to inform you of their Sentiments & to advise you to enter upon a different Behaviour--She told him that She had at last prevailed over you so far as to declare to her that you would never make any further Addresses to Miss ---- because She had a few Days before made a pointed and ill-natured Remark upon your going to Virginia--And pray Madam, did you believe such Trash--? But Trash or Substance it makes me feel grave--I was to Day looking over my Papers & saw Something Apropos, if I can turn to it presently you shall have it--It is an Extract from my Virginia Journal.

I have heard lately some very dull Stories, & am consequently in a very dull gloomy kind of Humour--Every Day I am expecting a more vigorous Feeling--Perhaps it will come tomorrow, but today I must tell you that my Feeling accords precisely with what I have recorded of myself last March.

--Virginia.

_Teusday March 22. 1774._

--In spite of all my strongest opposing Efforts my Thoughts dwell on that Vixen Laura--I strive to refuse them Admission, or harbour them in my Heart, yet like hidden Fire they introduce themselves, & sieze & overcome me, when perhaps I am pursuing some favorite Study, amusing or useful, or giving Directions to my little lovely Charge--

I had an Invitation to go to night to hear Mr Worth, a Baptist Minister preach; Polley, Salley, Ruth, Sister, Dr King were to be along-- But it storms, & has been storming all Day so violently that I have not dared yet to venture myself so far as the Stable to see my Horse--Nature is like your Pulse Laura; There is a constant Succession of black & white, Pain & Ease, Good & Evil--Yesterday was as fair, & to Day as directly the contrary as ever I saw two--Had you ever a Swellyng on your Finger--? It throbb'd--The Pain came & went by turns--This is not my Thought, I stole it from Mr Addison--He tells us of the Conversation & Behaivour of the great Socrates the morning he was to die. "When his Fetters were knocked off, being seated in the midst of his Scholars, and laying one of his Legs over the other in a very unconcerned Posture, he began to rub it where it had been galled by the Iron: And willing to improve every Oppertunity of instructing them he observed the Pleasure of that Sensation which now arose in those very Parts of his Leg that just before had been so much pained by the Fetter. Upon this he reflected on the Nature of Pleasure & Pain in General that they constantly succeed each other"--If you are curious you may read the whole beautiful Story of their Alliance & Marriage in the Spect: No: 183.

We poor earthly Creatures are, as to fortune & Feeling, exactly like the Nails in a turning Wheel, to Day up, to morrow Down--Always either sinking or rising. I have been descending for several Days, & am this very Moment down on the cold Earth in which lowly Posture I sincerely tell you I am in good or evil Fortune--fortune kind or cross.

forever yours PHILIP. V. FITHIAN.

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO ELIZABETH BEATTY]

Greenwich Decem: 1. 1774. TO LAURA.

--"From a Settlement made May 12: 1774 there appears a Balance due from Laura of N. n to Lucius, fifteen Letters & a Visit; the whole to be paid on or before the 20th: of Novem. next ensuing--Which Payment if not well & truely made by the said Laura, within the Time above limited, then the said Lucius is, & by these Presents shall be now & forever possest of the full Liberty of siezing, destraining, or taking any or every Part of the said Delinquents Goods & Chattels, & disposing of the same, as he shall think proper til the said Balance be made up--And in Case there shall be failure of Effects, then it is & Shall be lawful for the said Lucius to take under his immediate Direction the Person of the said Laura--

This 1. Day of Decem: on which I am examining a little into my Accompts is the 11:Day since the Time of Payment allow'd to that young Lady is fully expired--"Curse not the King, said Solomon, in thy Bed-Chamber, not even in thy Heart"--Why? "The Birds of the Air will tell it."--Very fine, this! Bring Scrippture among your Pounds, Shillings, & Pence--Very fine, young black Coat--Don't be too fast, Madam, I've got a Gown on, & my Hair is cu'd--On the 4: of July 1774. about three in the Afternoon, I was sitting alone in my Chamber, in Virginia, thinking--Among many other Conclusions I remember well, it was determined in my mind that this same Laura who is now so much in my Debt, is actually worth 50,000£ Sterling, pr Annum--Where is the Impropriety then, of my mentioning Solomon's Advice?--Does it now hurt your Conscience, Madam?--

If you can have Patience, I will tell you, from my Virginia Journal the true Cause of that Conclusion.

--Monday. July 4th: 1774.

"Miss Nancy Carter, at Dinner, informed us that Miss Lee, a young Lady from Richmond is now at Mr Turberville's, & she begg'd that her Brother, & I would go in the Evening & invite her here--We consented, & after School took Horses & rode on our Errand; Besides Miss Lee, we found Capt: Turberville, his Lady, Daughter, & several young Gentlemen.

After the Ceremony of Introduction, & our Devoirs were over, we took Seats, in a Cool Hall where the Company were sitting;--All when we entered were smiling at young Mr ---- who had been gathering Mulberries, & stained his Ruffle--The Attention of the Company being wholly taken up with him, I had the Oppertunity which I wanted, of examining the Person of his Sister, without being interrupted either by the Notice of others, or by my own Timidity. Miss Lee, I am told, is now entering her 20th Year; She is handsome. Her Eyes are exactly such as _Homer_, attributes to the Goddess _Minrva_; and her Arms resemble those which the same Poet allows to _Juno_--Her Hair is a dark leaden Colour; & was craped & knotted up very high, & in it neatly-woven, a Ribband, with a Sprig of green Jessamine--She wore a light Chintz Gown, very fine, with a blue Stamp, eligantly, & fashionably made, & which set well upon her--In one word, her Dress was neat & genteel; her Behaivour such as I should expect to find in a Lady whose Education had been conducted with Care & Skill, & her Person, abstracted from the Embellishments of Dress & Good-Breeding, not much above the Generality of Women.

What made me desirous to see, and curious to examine this young Lady, was a Sentence that was dropt yesterday by a respectable Person in our Family, intimating a Desire that I may, on seeing Miss Lee, after having known, by Report, her faultless Character, be so far pleased with her Person, as to try to make her mine, & settle in this Colony--That kind Person who is for making me happy by setling me in Virginia, & connecting me with one of the best Families in the Government little knows how painful it would be, if I was indeed compell'd by any Accident of Fortune, to spend the Remainder of my Days in Virginia, if it is the Pleasure of Providence, that I am to continue for any Length of Time in the World.

"_Strong_, & _sweet_ are the Bands which tye us to our Place of Nativity; If it be but a beggarly Cottage, we seem not satisfied with the most rich & splendid Entertainment if we are separated totally from it.

"But if a Princess should ask me to accept together with herself, 50,000, £ Sterling pr Annum; I declare with as great Pleasure as Truth that the Esteem and Fidelity which I possess for my ever-dear Eliza would make me, without Reflection, evade & refuse the Offer."

This is not strained Panegyrick; it is still the faintest Image of my Heart, tho' the Sentiment may seem strong & improbable.

PHILIP. V FITHIAN.

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO PRISCILLA CARTER]

Philadelphia Octr. 12th. 1775. MADAM.

It gave me high satisfaction when I saw your brother first in our province. I was cordially glad.--He came unexpected, and that circumstance increased my pleasure at seeing him at all. He is now in this city--Has been in several parts of East and West Jersey--Has tolerable health--And a steady cheerfulness, which I am willing to believe, arises from pretty constant entertainment.

I hear with much surprise, that none of my letters, since I left your family, have been so fortunate as to arrive safe. I impute this to the jealousy of the public, concerning the contents of letters passing through the continen[t].

Mr Peck carries you, with these, my best wishes--That you may rise rapidly in the early improvement of your mind in each useful and ornamental undertaking to which you may be directed--That you may have much real unmixed happiness in the friendships which your age and rank will soon lead you to form--And that the transporting scenes which at a distance, you discover to be painted on your future life, may, as they rise before you one after another, give you as much peaceful enjoyment as so great imperfection can bestow.

You will please to give my best duty to your dear Mama.

I shall write to Miss Nancy. Do not fail by any means whatever, to mention me to Miss _Fanny_, _Betsy_, and _Harriot_--Dear Harriot, Dear Betsy, dear Fanny--Lovely, lovely Girls! And Tasker too, if he has not forgot me, O tell him,--Tell them all how much I want to see them--Tell them I will surely come for such impatience as mine cannot bear disappointment.

You will also please to give my kind respects to Miss Sally Stanhope, and to all the family without one exception.

May I ask you to send me a line? My desire of se[e]ing as well as hearing from you is so strong I will venture--O write; three lines, if you send no more, will put you to some little trouble, but none can tell how welcome three lines from you would be to

Your most obliged, And most humble Servt: P. V. FITHIAN TO MISS PRISCILLA CARTER.

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO ANN TASKER CARTER]

Philadelphia Octobr: 13th. 1775. MISS NANCY:

No Dances, and but little music! You will begin to ask what is the world coming to?--No Tea, nor Gause, nor Paris-net, nor lawn, nor lace, nor Silks, nor Chintzes; Good Sirs--Good Sirs!--Well Nancy, in these hard times, I must want Stocks, and you must want Caps--But you look best, when I recollect, in your Hair; you look ten thousand thousand times over the best without any Cap at all, so that in spight of me I shall be outdone. I want to know how you and the Guitar agree yet--

Pray do you ride out often? If you do, who rides with you; or do you boldly ride alone?--Tell me who is yet mistress at Checks--I believe, if you will allow me to guess at so great a distance, it is Fanny. My dear Nancy I want much to see you. I would give this moment my hand full of half-Bits, or their value in coppers, if I thought you wish to see me.

Good-by, Good-by PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO MISS NANCY CARTER.

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO ROBERT BLADEN CARTER]

Greenwich Octobr: 16th. 1775. SIR.

It gives me pleasure to hear by your brother and Mr Peck, that, in continual health, you are growing rapidly to lusty Manhood--I am more pleased to hear that by growing industry you are rising faster in the progress of your education. Diligence overcomes all difficulties, Be diligent, in a proper course of business, and you will be great.

Mr Peck informs me that Henry has left the school and is in an other way of business; I wish him success in whatever course fortune shall lead him in. You will give him my kind respects. I should have written him a letter but I am drove on to the last hour of your brothers stay before I finish these.

Mr Peck or your Brother can inform you farther in any questions of my place and business,

I must now write myself dear Bob always respectfully

Yours PHILIP V. FITHIAN

MASTER BOB CARTER Virginia

[LETTER OF PHILIP V. FITHIAN TO COUNCILLOR ROBERT CARTER]

Greenwich Octobr. 17th. 1775. HON: SIR.

I was much gratified at your indulgent permission of your Son to visit, for a time, these northern Provinces. I think it will on the whole, be several ways advantageous to him. When I first saw him, he was feeble, and daily feverish; now he is better--He attended the commencement at Princeton; has been some time in Philadelphia--Seems cheerful--I think entertained--And will not return home without having made some useful observations--I am however fearful, that his constitution is not sufficiently vigorous, without scrupulous attention to exercise and nourishment, to afford him lasting health.

With regard to the public concerns they are here at so high a pass, and so complex, I must refer you to _Ben_ and Mr _Peck_.

I hear with great anxiety of Mrs Carters Illness; but hope, through the kindness of auspicious Heaven, that before you receive these, She will again enjoy her usual health. You will please to remind her of my constant strong esteem; it flows from the remembrance of a succession of unmerited kindness.

I have wrote frequently since I left your family, but am surprized to hear that all my letters have been intercepted or lost.

I am, Sir, with great truth & Esteem

Your most obliged Most obedient Servant PHILIP V. FITHIAN

TO ROBT: CARTER ESQR. Virginia.

APPENDIX

[CATALOGUE OF LIBRARY OF ROBERT CARTER COMPILED BY PHILIP FITHIAN.]

FOLIO'S

Molls large correct map of the whole world. Chamber's Dictionary of the Arts & Sciences 2 Vols Suplement to Ditto 2. Vol. Millers Gardeners Dictionary. Postlethwayts Do. of Trade & Commerce 2. Vol. Bayley's Etymological Ditto. Laws of Maryland. Puffendorf's Law of Nature & Nations Salmons universal Traveller 2. Vol. Grotius on War & Peace. Lockes Works 3 Vols. Wilkin's real Character. Principle of Equity. Homes Decisions of the Court of Sessions. Treatise & Maxims of Equity or Chancery. Stackhouse History of the Bible 2 Vols. 17 Volumes of Music, by various Authors. Temples Works 2 Volumes. Cases in Equity Abridged 2 Volumes. Ackerleys Britanick Constitution. Spelmans Works. Swinburne of Wills. Vavassoris omnia Opera. Hughes's natural History of Barbadoes. Salmons Abridgment of state Trials. Vossii Epistolae. Observations on Caesars Comment. Clarendons Tracts. Scripta Senecae Philosophi. Books of Common Prayer. The Surveyor in four Books. Hortensii Enarrationes in Virgilium. Advices from Parnassus. Blounts Censura Authorum. Bacons Government. Dictionaire universel de toates les Sciences, & des Arts 3 Volumes. Biblia Sacra. Stephani Thesaurus 4 Volumes. Le grand Dictionaire History 4 Volumes. Acta Regia. Raleighs History of the World. Calmets historical, critical, geographical, chronological and Etymological Dictionary of the Holy Bible in 3 Volumes. Bundys Roman History 3 Volumes. Works of Virgil 2 Volumes. A View of universal History. Cooke [Coke] on Littleton. Sidney on Government. Cornu Copia of Terence Varra. Calmets Prints. Alexanders Feasts, or the Power of Music, an Ode in Honour of St. Celaelia [Cecilia] by Dryden set to Music by Handel. Hammond on the New Testament.

_QUARTO._

Bates Hebrew & English Dictionary. Christianity as old as the Creation. North's Examen. Blackstones Comment. 4 Volumes. Harris's Justinian, in Latin. Shaws Boerhave. 2 Volumes. Simpsons Justice. Builders Treasure of Designs. Palladio Londenensis. Marine Dictionary. Newtons observations on Daniel. Guidonis de Rebus memorabilibus. Piscarnii Dissertationes medicae. Carmina quadrigessimalia. History of the London Royal Society. Erasmus de optimo Rei Statue. The Courtier by Castligio. Puffendorf de la Nature, et des Gens. Hedorici Lexicon. Morhosii Polyhistor 2 Volumes. Helvicus Chronology. Hierenymi Syphilis. Pearoes Longinus. Boyers Dictionary. Aurelii de Levitate Dei. Phisica, a manuscript. Monthly Review 24 Volumes. Quinctiliani de Institutione Oratoris. Barcleys Argenis. Apology of the Church of England. Newton's Milton 3 Vols. neatly gilt. Horatius Bentleii. Cowleys Works. Chubbs Tracts. Robertsons Charles 5. 5 Vols. Gilt. Desaguliers Experiment. Philos. 2 Vols. Gravesande Elements of Philosophy 2 Vols. Sheridan on Elocution. Grotius de la Guerre & de la Paix. Fingal; an Epic Poem.

OCTAVO'S.

Universal History 21 Vols. Supplement to Ditto. Smiths Moral Sentiments. Wingates Arithmetic. Newtons Arithmetic. Middltons Life of Cicero. Dissertation upon Parties. Free-thinking with remarks. Middletons Letter from Rome. Watts's Logic. Buchanans History 2 Vol's. Atterbury's Sermons 2 Vol's. Familiar Letters. Chaucers Tales 2 Vol's. Loves Surveying. Mc.Laurin's Algebra. Erasmus's Colloquies. Jacob's Law-Dictionary. Quincy's Dispensatory. Elements of the Art of Assaying Metals. Mairs Book-Keeping. Oxford Grammar. Preceptor 2 Volumes. Harris's Hermes. Sheridan on Education. Athenean Oracle 4 Vol's. Echard's Roman History 6 Vol's. Patricks Terence 2 Vol's. Watson's Horace 2 Vol's. Johnstons Dictionary 2 Vol's. Greys Ecclesiastical History. Hales History of the Law. Virginia Justice. Elements of Criticism 2 Vol's. Gilbert of Wills. Terms of Law. Trials Per Pais. Law of Estates. Hawkins's Crown Law. Duty of Executors. Law of Uses & Trusts. Molloy's de Jure Maritimo. Kaim's Law Tracts. Montesque's Spirit of Laws 2 Vol's. Laws of ordinance 2 Vol's. Attorney's Practice of Kings-Bench. Harrison's accomplished practiser 2 Vol's. Burns Justice 4 Vol's. Ladies Compleat letter Writer. Compleat Guide to London Trader. Letter to Serena. Poetical Works of the Earl of Halifax. A Voyage to Cacklogallinia. Kennets Roman Antiquities. Fresnays Art of Painting. Heridiani History Libri 8. Zenophon in Latin. Stillingfleet, & Burnet Conf: of Rel: Discovery of celestial Worlds. Minucii Felicis Octavianus. Wards Mathematics. Demetrii Phalerii de Elicutione. Submission to the civil Magistrate. Sacerdotism display'd. Platonis Dialogi selecti. Lexicon Plautinium. The compleat Gentleman. Ovid de Tristibus. Valerius Maximus. Wyckerleys Works. Salmons History of England. Hist poeticae Scripteres antiqui. Bowdens Poetical Essays. Noetica & Ethica. Van Sweetens Comment 8 Vols. Ausonii Opera. Ovids Metamorphosis. Wells Geography of New Testament 4 Vols. Uptons observ: on Shakespear. Spinoza reviv'd. Hi[s]tory of the Belles Lettres. Montaignes Essays 2 Vols. Salmons Chronology 2 Vol's. Lactantii Opera. Present state of Great Britain. Gays Fables 2 Vol's. The Chace by Somerville. Mitchels Poems 2 Vol's. Cobdens Poems. Seneca Tragediae. Livii Historia 3 Vol's. Rays Wisdom of God. Terentii Delphini. Law of Executors. Tyndals Rights of the Church. Youngs Poetical Works. Gordons Geography. Roseommons Poems. Lynch's Guide to Health. Bladens Caesar. Variorum Auctorum Consilia. Poems on State Affairs. Essays on Trade. Nardius's Noctes Geniales. Caesaris Comment Vossii. Account of Denmark. Friend on Fevers & Small Pox. Broaches General Gazatere. Virgils Works. Bailies Dictionary. Ovidii Opera 3 Vol's. Malcolm on Music. Woodwards nat. Hist. of the Earth. Smith's Sermons. Guthries Essay on English Tragedy. Bishop of Bangors Reply. Flavii Aviani Fabulae. Exposition of Roman Antiquities. Oxford Latin Grammer. Present State of Great Britain. Alexandri ab Alexandro Libri sex. Thompsons Poems. Needlers Works. Denhams Poems. Ovids Metamorphosis. Dictionary of the Holy Bible. Spelmans Expedition of Cyrus. Virginia Laws. Smollets History of England 10 Vol's. Series of political Maxims. Donnes Letters. De Juramenti Obligatione. Voltaires select Pieces. Rapin on Gardens. (A poem) Life & Opinions of Tristram Shandy. State of Great Britain & Ireland. Juvenals & Perseus's Satires. Wards Mathematicks. Littletons History of Henry Seventh 3 Vol's. Locke on human understanding. Aprol's Nepos. Cradocks Version of the Psalms. Terrentiae Comediae. Discours politiques sur Tacite. Villa Burghesia. Every Man his own Lawyer. Chamberlanes religious Phil: 3 Vol's. Observations on the Resurrection. Manwarring on the Classicks. Fontaines Fables. Sheridans British Education. Oldcastles Remarks on History of England. Davidsons Ovids Epistles. Potters Greek Antiquities 2 Vol's. Chaucers Tales 3 Vol's. Robertsons History of Scotland. 2 Vol's. Thoyras's History of England. Dennis's Miscellanies. Dialogues of the Dead. Of the Rupture with Spain, France & Eng. Addissons Dissertation on the Roman Poets. Augustini de Deitate Dei Libra 22. Essay on the first Book of Lucretius. The School of Man. Book of Italian Music. Poetices Libri septem. Handels Operas for Flute 2 Vol's. Enquiry concerning Virtue. Montaignes Essays. 3 Vol's. Epicteti Enchiridion. Remarks on Prince Arthur. Seneca Grutui. The Religious Philosopher. Tolands Works. Memoirs of the Duke of Sully 3 Vol's. Virgilii Opera. Charon of Wisdom. 3 Vol's. Arithmetica universalis. Le Livre des Priores communes. Life of Mahomet. The moral Philosopher. Gordons Tacitus. 4 Vol's. Wagstaffes Works. Art of Reading. Colliers Amendments. Life of Sethos 2 Vol's. Kennets Roman Antiquities. Of Conformity to religious Ceremonies. Ovids Metamorphosis. Musee Sacrae Poetarum. History of Charles twelfth of Sweden 3 Vol's. Broomes Poems. Davidsons Virgil 2 Vol's. Parliamentary Debates 12 Vol's. Wells Geography of old Test 3 Vol's. Davidsons Horace 2 Vol's. Bakers Medulla Poet: Rom. 2 Vol's. Fontaines Cupid, & Pisyche. Davidsons Ovid. Defence of Christian Revelation. Philosophical Letters. Strades Prolusions. Whaleys Poems. Nature & consequences of Enthusiasm. Quintiliani Declamtiones. Barcleys Apology. French. Mitchels Poems 2 Vol's. History of the Council of Trent. Kerr, de Latina Ling. loquenda. Homer, Greek & Latin. Potters Greek Antiquities. Tulls Husbandry. Religious Philosopher. Holy Bible, Longinus. Tertullian. View of the Court of Exchequer. Porneys Elements of Heraldry. Enchiridion Metaphysian. Lactantius. Treatise on Ventilators. Virgil, Turners Syphilis. Cicero's Orations. 3 Vol's. Book of Rates. Amyntor. Agnyppus's Vanity of Arts. Livii Historia 6 Vol's. Humes Essays 2 Vol's. Humes History of England. 8 Vol's. (Both these Setts neatly gilt) Vertets Revolutions of Sweden. Ansons Voyage. Cicero's Epistles. Daran on the Urethra. Virgil 2 Vol's. Littletons Life of Henry Second 2 Vol's. Dictionary of plants 2 Vol's. Salmons chronological Historian 2 Vol's. Smollets History of England 8 Vol's. Smollets Continuation 4 Vol's. Life of prince Eugene. Life of Duke of Marlborough.

DUODECIMO'S.

Compleat French Master. Buchanans English Grammar. Steeles English Grammar. Historical Companion. Boyers Telemachus 2 Vol's. Eulia a Novel Burnets History of England 6 Vol's. Holme's Lattin Grammer. Rdimans Ditto. Tennants Law. Harvey's Meditations 2 Vol's. Academy of Play. Tristram Shandy, 2 Setts 4 Vol's. Each Salmons Gazateer. Rudimans Institutons Latin. British Grammar. Clarks Essay on Education. Westleys History of the New Testament. Oconomy of human Life. Cunninghams Horace. Considerations concerning Money. Bibliotheca Legum. Clarks Latn Grammar. Geography for Children. Complete parish Officer. Tyro's Dictionary. Yoricks sentimental Journal. Buchanans Spelling Dictionary. Farriers compleat Guide. Margaretta, a Sent[i]mental Novel 2 Vol's. Theologie portative French. Kimbers Scotch Peerage. Kimbers English Ditto. McLung on Bile Milatary Register for the years 1770. 1771. 1772. Westleys History of the Bible 2 Vol's. Joannis Barcley Argenis. Idiotismi Verborum. Persuis's Satires. Cookes Hesiod. L Apuleii de Assino Libri. Ovids Tristia. English Expositor. Velleii Paterculi Historia. Historical Companion. Donnes Poems. Voitures Works 2 Vol's. Rowes Lucan 2 Vol's. Derricks Voyage to the Moon. Molieres Works French & English 10 Vol's. Hughes Works 2 Vol's. Patersons Notes on Milton. Miscellanous Poems 2 Vol's. Porta Linguarum. Histoire D. Abe-lard, at D Eloise. Puffendorf de Officiis Hominis & livis. Wallers Works. Fontenelle des Morts. Famiani Stradae Prolusiones. Anicii Manlii Opuscula sacra. Grammatica Institu. Rudi. Drydens Fables. Steeles Miscellanies. Miscellany Poems. Mallets Works 3 Vol's. Farquihars Works. Shaftsburys Charactericstics. Rapin on Aristotles Poesy. Musae Anglicanae 2 Vol's. King on the Heathen Gods. Adventures of a Guinea 2 Vol's. Manners, from the French. Collection of Poems. 3 Vol's. Massons Life of Horace. The School of Woman. Wesleys Poems. A Lady's Religion. Ovids Art of Love. Whears Relectiones Hyemales. Traps Relectiones poeticae 2 Vol's. Compendium Historia universalis. Menahenii Declamationes. Blackwells Introduction to the Classics. Present State of Polite Learning. Zenophons Cyropedia in Greek. Dodsleys Poems 4 Vol's. Guide to London Trader. Horus's Epitome of Hist. Rom. Plurality of Words Grotius De Veritate. Ponds Kalender. Memoirs de la Pompadour. Favel of the Heavens. 2 Vol's. Letters in Verse from an old Man to youth 2 Vol's. Grecae Sententiae. Browns Religio Medici. Priors Poems 3 Vol's. Laurentii Vallae de Lingua Latinae Elegantia. Sherlocks Sermons 3 Vol's. Peace of King William. Dissertatio de Atheismo. Watts's Horae Lyricae. A Gentlemans Religion. Lavie de Cristofle Colombo. Epistolae Laii Plinii. Ladies Drawing Room. Franciscii Sancti Minerva. Pomfrets Poems. Eutropii Historiae Romanae. Considerations sur le's lauses. Les Avantures de Telamaque. La Mechanique des Langues. Clarks Essay on study. Drydens Juvenal. Cicero de Officiis. Hist de Theadosa le Grand. More's Utopia. Nicols de Literis invertis. Travels of Cyrus. Cooks Plautus's Comedies. Wilkies Epigoniad. Trapps Virgil. Free thoughts on Religion. Wycherleys Plays. Esops Fables Greek & Latin. Shakespears Works 8 Vol's. Plutarch's Lives 9 Vol's. Gil Blas 4 Vol's. Lettres Persanes 2 Vol's. Devil upon Crutches 2 Vol's. Theocriti Poetae Selectae. Prayr Book in Short Hand. Epicteti Enchiridion 2 Vol's. Vosii Rhetoris Libri quinque. Poems of Sophocles Greek & Latin. Pincieri Enigmata. Virgilii Opera. Polydorus de Rerum invent: The Medley & Whig Examiner Dominici Bavidi Epistolae. Bonefacii Carmina. Antoni Mureti Epistolae et Carmina. Testament politiqe de Richlieu. Velerii Flacii Angonautica. Stratagems of War. Carmina Jounnis Bonefonii. Traduction des Eegies D Ovide. Famiani Stradae Decas. Persius's Satires. Eutropii Historiae Romanae. Ovidii Opera 3 Vol's. Salust Horace Hudibras. Cicero Paterculi Historiae. Erasmi Dialogus Ciceronianus. Cornelius Nepos. Plin et Caecil Panegyricus. Castalio de Christo imitando. Elegantiarum centum Regulae. Erasmi Declamatio. Annaei Senecae Tragaediae. Account of the Death of the Persecutors. Delitiae Poetarrum Gallorum 3 Vol's. Corn: Tacit Annalium Libri. Plauti Comediae. Apologia Celesiae Anglicanae. Monseigeneur le Marquis. Tullii Ciceronis Epistolae. Politiani Epistolae. Censura Philosophia cartesiana. Historia universalis. Egidii Chronologia. Atacrobius. Blackmore's Prince Arthur. Walkers Rhetoric. Senecae Epistolae. V. Paterculi Historia. Heinsii Orationes. Les Oevres de M. Scarron. Quintus Curtius. Juvenal & Perseus. Gardineri Epistolae. Renotii Rapini Hortorum Libri. Blackmore's Creation. Riders British Merlin. Millars Universal Register. Gentlemans Kalendar 4 Vol's. Barclaii Satiricon Sleidani de quatuor summis Imp: De Arte bene moriendi. Boethii de Consolatione Philosophiae. Medetationes Augustini. De Sapientia Veterum. Lucretii Claudiani Carminae. Pia Desideria. (A Poem) Cororna Virtutum. Ausonius. 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[VALENTINE MADE BY FITHIAN FOR PRISCILLA CARTER]

To Miss _Priscilla Carter_.

Presented as a Valentine.

When _Custom_ calls I must away, She calls me now, & chides my Stay; She asks my usual annual care, To compliment some worthy Fair; To hasten to _Apollo's_ Shrine, For Aid to form a _Valentine_. But if _Apollo_ I invoke, Gay _Fancy_ I shall sure provoke Who swears these yearly Rhimes should be, From Order, Sense, & Learning free; That if each line be fill'd with Stuff, Twill please a Lady well enough That Fancy only can inspire A Youthful Heart with frantic Fire, To write such inconsistent Lines, As always please in Valentines; That if Apollo lends his Aid, And I address a well-bred Maid; With Verses plain yet fill'd with sense, The Girl would curse my Impudence; Pedantic, earth-born Fellow! he, A hobbling Tutor write to me! Let him go teach his Scholars Greek, Or learn, himself, to dance, to speak; And learn to please, or never dare, Disturb the Quiet of the Fair. She spoke; but why should I obey, What unsubstantial Phantoms say? Yet _Fancy_ urg'd her case so well, No human Mind could guess or tell, What hidden Scheme she had in View, Nor what the _Baggage_ meant to do: 'Till _Pallas_ Queen of wisdom came, And told the mischief of the Dame, For Fancy, Madam, early knew, Twas my Desire to write to you; She therefore whisper'd in my Ear, That you would nought but Nonsense hear In hopes to baffle my Design, Or form a vulgar Valentine. But Pallas told me what to do If I design'd to write to you, Make _Humour_, Truth, & Sense conspire, With genuine poetic-Fire, To form a Song in Taste & Ease, Such would your Infant-Bosom please. Now, Miss, accept in humble Lays, My weak attempt to sing your Praise; Nor think it rudeness when I try, To hold your virtues up on high, To shew their bright yet living Blaze And make inraptured Numbers gaze; _Slander_ herself must disappear, Or justify my Conduct here, Since _Fancy_, _Wit_, & _Pallas_, too, Are all contending, Miss, for you. I in the common sportful Way, With pleasure now of you might say, That both your Eyes are glowing Darts, Which only seen do wound our hearts; That Venus' Son by her command Waits always at your fair Right-Hand, And that the _Loves_ in Beauty drest, Are always hov'ring near your Breast; But, tho Such words appli'd to you, In every sense should all be true; And if you hear such pleasant Rhimes, Sung in your Ear ten thousand Times: Yet always doubt what makes you more, Than ever _Mortal_ was before. When any Girl; with beauty drest, And Innocence above the Rest, Tho' _Fortune_ has withheld her Store, And left the blushing Maiden poor, Yet Ladie's look with envious Eyes, And well-born Men the _Angel_ prize. Or when the God of Wealth is kind, Who does not _worth_ nor _Beauty_ mind, And gives some sordid _Woman_ Gold, Our foolish Sex is bought & sold; We cringe, & court, & sigh, & whine And swear the Nymph is quite divine. And sometimes, tho' Examples here, Exceeding seldom do appear, When a good Girl of solid sense, Who does not make the least pretence, To what our Fancies rate so high, A great estate & sparkling Eye; Who knows tis only want of these, Makes her incapable to please, And therefore Studies hard to find, And plant such Virtues in her Mind As shall the place of Friends supply With constant mirthful Company: Sometimes these Virtues far outdo, The power of _wealth_ & _Beauty_ too, And make a low-born Virgin rise, To seem a _Goddess_ in our Eyes. But when we image in our Mind, Beauty, & Wealth, & Genius join'd, And see them all to one belong, The Colours are so bright so strong; None can resist the powerful Blaze But all with _Love_, & _Rapture_ gaze If Madam, my Presage be true, I may apply all these to you; And free from _Fear_, or _Interest_ say, That on some happy Future Day, When years shall have the _worth_ exprest, Which yet lies prison'd in your Breast; And settled more the charming Grace, Of grave _good Humour_ in your Face; As you have been by _Fortune_ blest, And born of _Fame_, & _Wealth_ possest, Those full-blown Charms the world will see, And with one common voice agree, That such perfection is design'd To be a pattern for Mankind. Sure then I've cause with Heart sincere, To bless the _Chance_ which led me here, And plac'd me down by _Wisdom's_ Flow'r, Which still grows lovelier every Hour; Whose tender Branches bud & shoot And promise early useful Fruit; Tho' _Chance_ has given me in Care, To Nurse this plant & make it fair, Yet generous _Nature_ had before, Been so unsparing of her Store, That unemploy'd, with wondering Eyes, I only stand, & see it rise!

PHILIP. V FITHIAN.

Westmorland-County} Virginia } February 2d: 1774.}

Index

Achan's Tavern, Del., 18

Addison, Joseph, 58, 180

Aesop, _Fables_, 54, 132

Agriculture, 94, 125, 127, 133 attempts to diversify, xv "new grounds," xiv, xxviii tobacco the mainstay of, xiv wasteful system of cultivation, xiv, 88 _see also_ land, tenancy

Ague, _passim_

Aiken, Mr., 103

"Albany," Westmoreland County, Buckner home, 248

Alexandria, Va., 18, 77, 97, 240, 247

Allen, Moses, 3, 240

Allestree, _A Gentleman's Calling_, xvii

All Fours (game), 104, 247

American Colonies, rapid growth of, 63 toasts to trade of, 64 _see also_ American Revolution, Continental Congress

_American Historical Review_, Fithian manuscripts published in, xxxii, 239

American Revolution, xxix, 246, 137, 173-74 disturbances leading to, 111, 112, 113, 115, 122-23, 149 political discussions preceding, 110, 116, 137, 173, 191 sympathy for Northern colonies, 59, 113, 117 views of Carter on issues leading to, 111, 196

American Whig Society, 7, 240

_Amusement of the German Spa_, 121

Amusements, _see_ Assemblies, Balls, Barbecues, Betting, Billiards, Boat races, Books, Cards, Christmas, Cockfighting, Dancing, Dice, Drinking, Fencing, Fox-hunts, Gambling, Games, Gardens, Horses, Horse-racing, House-warmings, Magazines, Music, Skating

Anabaptists, _see_ Baptist Church

Anburey, Thomas, 238

Andrews, Robert, 237

Anglican Church, 25, 29, 31, 41, 77, 84, 137, 167, 243 Anabaptists opposed by ministers of, 72-73 Bruton Parish, 65, 245 Carter serves as vestryman and warden, xxix choirs, 195 Cople Parish, xxix doctrines of, 61, 148 Hanover Parish, 244, 246 Lunenburg Parish, 241 Mrs. Carter admires, 61 order to elect Burgesses read in, 137 reading of ministers, 66 Richmond Parish, 19 St. George's Parish, 244, 246 schoolmasters take orders in, 25, 243 slaves attend services, 89 social character of gatherings, xxxi, 137, 167 _see also_ Nomini Church, Yeocomico Church

Annapolis, Md., 59, 77, 79, 96, 97, 108, 118, 209

Anthems, 127, 158

Apples, 132, 140

Apricots, 79, 90

Aprons, 124, 125

Aquia, Va., 19, 241

Aquia Creek, 241

Architecture, handbooks on, xviii, xix plan of Nomini Hall, 60, 146, 181 master builders from England, xx of Mount Airy, 94, 246 offices are integral parts of residences, xx residences based on homes of English gentry, xix _see also_ titles of catalogue in Appendix

Arithmetic, 25, 83 problem submitted to Fithian, 197

Armitage, Polly, 106 family, 173

Arne, Thomas Augustine, 243

Arnest, Dr. John, 246 T. M., 246

_Artaxerxes_ (opera), 243

Artichokes, 128

Artisans, xxix _see also_ carpenters, coopers, shoemakers, tinkers

Asparagus, 79

Assemblies, xxxi _see also_, Virginia, General Assembly of

Astronomy, 132

Atwell, Mr., 68, 142, 143, 144

Augusta County, 58

Awnings, for boats, 153

Bakeries, xxviii, 75, 191

Bakers, 88

Balantine (Balandine), Mr., 51, 56, 244

Balinger, Capt., 106

Ballrooms, 97, 154 at Hobb's Hole, 154 at Nomini Hall, 80 at "Tuckahoe," 239

Balls, xxxi, 34, 53, 57, 162, 168 at Hobb's Hole, 151, 154 at Lee Hall, 42, 43, 47, 56-58, 244 at Nomini Hall, 35 at Sabine Hall, 171

Baltimore, 18, 53, 59, 87, 209 _see also_ Baltimore Iron Works

Baltimore Iron Works, 79, 82 Carter secures interest in, xxviii

Banjos, 62

Bank of North America, 117

Bank of the United States, 117

Bankers, xxviii

Banquets, xxxi

Baptist Church, growth of membership, 72 in Loudoun County, 72 ministers of, 211 opposed by Anglican minister, 72

Barbecues, xxxi, 183

Barberries, 194

Barbers, 33, 54, 91, 97, 135, 158

Barges, 76 of Robert Carter, 143

Barley broth, 32

Bateaux, 144

Baylor, John, xviii family, educated in England, xviii, 237

Beale, Mr., 144, 248 Charles, widow of, marries Reverend Giberne, 241 Elizabeth, 248 Judith (Carter), 248 Mary (Fauntleroy), _see_ Giberne, Mary (Fauntleroy Beale) Reuben, 248 Winifred, 248 family, 248

Beatty, Charles, 105 Elizabeth ("Laura," "Eliza," "Betsey"), xxxii, 4, 8-9, 14-15, 21, 27, 28, 32, 34, 37, 47, 53, 58, 70, 77, 82, 84, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 107, 108, 111, 118, 131, 141, 149, 156, 157, 170, 174-175, 179, 187, 206, 207, 247 Fithian expresses love for, 139-140 letters to, 8-9, 12-13, 35-36, 53, 115-116, 139-140, 179-180, 210-212, 212-214 marries Philip Fithian, xxxii second marriage to Joel Fithian, 240 Dr. John, 14, 105, 107, 240 Reading, 100, 105, 247

_Beaufort_ (ship), 156

Bedford, Miss, 106

Beef, 75, 90

"Belinda," 170 corresponds with Fithian, 170

"Belle Ville," Richmond County, Giberne home, 241

"Bellfield," York County, Diggs home, 248

Benson, Capt., 154

"Berkeley," Charles City County, Harrison home, xxii

Bernard, John, quoted, 237

_Bertoldo in Corte_ (opera), 246

Bett (dairy girl), 157

Betting, 29, 154, 162, 186, 190

Beverley, Harry, of "Hazelwood," ideas on education, xvii Robert, of "Blandfield," plans education for son, xviii

_Bible_, 92, 111

Billiards, 109

Birds, 75, 76, 78, 96

Biscuits, baked in Carter's mills, 75

Bitters, 107, 210

Bladen, Ann, _see_ Tasker, Ann (Bladen) Thomas, xxvii, 239

Bladensburg, Md., 5, 18, 240

Blain, Mr. (Scotch merchant), 29, 35, 51, 55, 116, 173, 174, 176, 179, 181, 199 at Nomini Hall, 63 store of, 119

"Blandfield," Essex County, Beverley home, ha-ha at, xx, 238 offices at, xxi

Blewer, Capt., of the _Sea Nymph_, 107

Bloody Flux, 208-209

Boat races, xxxi at Hobb's Hole, 150, 154

Boats, 192 of Robert Carter, 144, 145 _see also_ Boat races

Books, xvii, 25, 26, 39, 54, 58, 70, 83, 91, 92, 100, 103, 111, 112, 121, 128, 135, 157, 188, 194, 243 as means of transmitting British culture, xvii at Carter's Williamsburg home, 119, 247 at Nomini Hall, 26, 119, 247 on architecture, xviii, xix, 237 on courtesy and conduct, xvii on farming, xviii on gardening, xviii, xix on history, xviii on law and legal procedure, xviii on medicine and surgery, xviii on military tactics, xviii on politics and statecraft, xviii on religion, xviii _see also_ titles of catalogue in Appendix

Booth, Miss, 67, 96 Billy, 32, 47, 243 William, 243

Boston, 72, 191, 192, 194, 245 political disturbances at, 59, 64, 110, 111, 113, 121 troops at, 115

Boucher, Jonathan, quoted, 245

Bowen, Dr., 104

Bowling greens, xx, xxix at Nomini Hall, 81

Boxing, 161

Boxwood, English, xx

Boyd, Miss, 176 Mr., 100, 101 Mrs., 101, 102 James, 210 Sally, 106 family, 102

Bracken, Rev. John, quarrels with Henley, 65, 79, 245

Brandy, 75, 90, 114, 175, 208, 209 Carter distils, 54

Break the Pope's Neck (game), 34

Brewster, Mrs., 16, 104

Brick, walks of, xx

Broadcloth, 69

Brocades, 57

Brockenborough (Brockenberry), Miss, 155, 248 William, 248 family, 248

Brooches, 69

"Brother Quill," schoolmaster, 176, 197

Brown, Mr., 102 Bryan, Andrew, 3, 53, 240

Buck, Mrs., 5

Buckner, Mr., 179, 248 John, 248 Richard, 248 family, 248

Buckskin (epithet), 183

Buff-ball, 19

Bull Run, Carter tracts at, 79

Bullock, Polly, 99

Burney, Mr., a cooper, 181 Dr. Charles, 152

Burwell, Nathaniel, views on education of son, xvii, 237

"Bushfield," Westmoreland County, Washington home, xxxi, 41, 120, 126, 136, 145, 179, 200, 206, 244 dancing school at, 66, 111, 126 description of, 67

Bushtown, Md., 18

Button (game), 34

Byrd, Susan, educated in England, xviii William II, educated in England, xviii

Calico gowns, 125

Calmet's Scripture Prints, 83

Cambridge University, 242 Ben Carter plans to enter, 26 Caius College, xviii Virginians at, xviii, xix

Camel, _see_ Campbell

Campbell, Mr., Controller of Customs, 67, 76 Miss, 76, 84 Pinkstone, 76

Canals, 75

Canoes, 75, 192

Caps, 125

Cards, 29, 57, 65, 72, 104, 108, 161, 163, 247

Carpenters, 202

Carpenter's shops, 37

Carr, Mr., 51

Carriages, 47, 157

Carter, Anne Tasker (Nancy), xxx, 20, 25, 27, 28, 35, 37, 39, 40, 42, 55, 56, 59, 60, 62, 63, 65, 66, 75, 86, 90, 110, 111, 115, 122, 125, 128, 132, 133, 142, 146, 156, 184, 189, 190, 215, 241 attends dancing school, 25 cuts off eyebrows, 128 description of, 49 letter to, 215 plays guitar, 28, 132 quarrels with Bob, 49 Benjamin, xxx, 19, 22, 28, 29, 32, 37, 38, 39, 42, 43, 54, 55, 58, 59, 60, 62, 63, 65, 67, 68, 69, 70, 72, 73, 74, 75, 82, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 91, 93, 94, 95, 96, 110, 112, 114, 115, 116, 118, 119, 121, 122, 123, 125, 128, 130, 131, 132, 134, 135, 138, 142, 143, 144, 147, 148, 151, 152, 154, 155, 157, 158, 169, 171, 172, 175, 177, 179, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, 189, 190, 194, 198, 199, 201, 202, 206, 207, 217, 241 at Mount Airy, 151 character and traits of, 48, 70, 77-78, 190 illness of, 121, 122, 181, 182, 217 passion for horses, 70, 190 plans to enter Cambridge University, 26 plays flute, 65, 71 visits other colonies, 214 Betsy, of "Sabine Hall," 136, 157 Betty Landon (Betsy), xxx, 42, 50, 76, 110, 134, 135, 184, 189, 202, 206, 215 description of, 49 "Bob," _see_ Robert Bladen Carter Charles, xxvi Elizabeth (sister of Robert Carter III), xxvi Frances (Fanny) xxx, 42, 49, 50, 51, 63, 65, 76, 79, 90, 110, 115, 132, 135, 146, 147, 150, 152, 184, 189, 193, 206, 215 description of, 49 suffers from bite of ticks, 158, 169, 181 Frances Anne (Tasker), wife of Robert Carter III, xxvii, 27, 32, 33, 34, 37, 39, 40, 41, 42, 44, 45, 48, 54, 56, 58, 61, 63, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 73, 74, 75, 78, 79, 83, 84, 87, 91, 92, 93, 95, 96, 110, 111, 115, 116, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 125, 132, 133, 137, 138, 141, 142, 144, 146, 148, 150, 157, 158, 162, 178, 179, 181, 182, 183, 186, 189, 193, 194, 195, 200, 202, 204, 207, 217 buried at Nomini Hall, 61, 245 character and traits of, xxvii, 32, 33, 40, 48, 71, 194, 207 description of, 40 discusses her children, 116 expresses preference for simple burial, 61 Fithian admires, 71, 150, 207 good management of children, 64, 116 imports plate, 189 teases Fithian, 205 thunder and lightning frighten, 79, 123 views on slavery, 92 wide reading and knowledge of, 66 George, xxvi Harriot Lucy, xxx, 82, 83, 110, 119, 133, 134, 138, 146, 193, 202, 206, 246 description of, 49 marries John James Maund, 246 pranks of, 193 schooner named for, 29, 243 tastes mercury, 54 John Tasker ("Tasker"), xxx, 133, 135, 215 Judith, _see_ Beale, Judith (Carter) Landon, xviii, 237, 245 diary of, cited, 237 supports free school, 248 Lucy, of "Sabine Hall," 136 "Nancy," _see_ Anne Tasker Carter Polly, of "Sabine Hall," 157 Priscilla, xxx, 21, 22, 24, 26, 27, 35, 37, 39, 41, 42, 43, 44, 47, 55, 56, 60, 62, 63, 65, 74, 75, 83, 90, 92, 110, 115, 122, 128, 133, 135, 136, 138, 147, 149, 150, 169, 176, 184, 189, 202, 206, 242 description of, 48 Fithian composes valentine for, 58, 230-233, 245 learns music, 22, 26 letter to, 214-215 tutor offends, 66 Robert ("King"), xv, xviii, xxvi Robert II, xxvi grave of, 61 Robert, III, "Councillor," of "Nomini Hall," 3, 5, 6, 24, 26, 29, 30, 32, 33, 37, 40, 42, 47, 48, 51, 53, 55, 58, 59, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 73, 75, 79, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 94, 95, 106, 110, 111, 112, 116, 117, 118, 126, 127, 129, 132, 135, 140, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 150, 152, 156, 157, 158, 162, 165, 171, 172, 177, 179, 181, 182, 184, 190, 191, 194, 196, 246 buried at Baltimore, 245 character and traits of, xxvi, xxvii, 48, 70, 140 compares value of Virginia and Maryland currency, 74 descendants own Nomini Hall, 246 early life and education, xxvi-xxvii economic activities of, xxvii-xxviii, 63, 68, 79, 117, 144 expresses preference for simple burial, 61 expresses wish for sudden death, 182 lands owned by, 79 letter to, 217 marries Frances Anne Tasker, xxvii member of Governor's Council and General Court, xxix, 26 mills of, _see_ mills musical interests of, xxx, 30, 42, 48, 51, 69, 111, 181 plans disposition of estate, 83, 182 political attitude of, 111 portrait of, xxvii reading of, xxix, 53 registers at Inner Temple, xxvi scientific interests of, xxix, 190, 191, 196 serves as vestryman and warden, xxix strong discipline of, 26, 64, 156 studious habits of, 26 visits England, xxvi Robert Bladen (Bob), xxx, 20, 38, 40, 42, 43, 49, 54, 55, 56, 58, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 70, 71, 72, 73, 75, 77, 78, 82, 83, 85, 86, 88, 110, 111, 116, 119, 121, 123, 125, 126, 127, 133, 134, 142, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, 156, 169, 177, 181, 184, 186, 199, 201, 202, 204, 241 admires Miss Tayloe, 121 attends dancing school, 25 character and traits of, 48, 49-50, 55, 64, 70, 72, 78, 110, 116, 127, 186 description of, 48 inscribes names in books, 135-136 letters to, 201, 216 plays prank on father, 177 reflections on Phillis Wheatley, 72 wishes to learn Latin, 77 Robert Wormeley, of "Sabine Hall," 244, 248 "Tasker," _see_ John Tasker Carter family, 64, 89, 90 ancestry and heritage of, xxv-xxvii attends Nomini Church often, 31 Fithian characterizes, 21 pranks of children, 177, 189 servants treated courteously by, 26 social and economic position of, xxv-xxx, 21 strong discipline in, 26, 64 studies of children, 20, 26

"Carter's Grove," James City County, Burwell home, xvii, xxii

Carving, in decoration of homes, xxii

Castiglione, _The Courtier_, xviii

Catalpa trees, 61

Catechism, Carter children repeat, 76

Cateness, Miss, 8

Catesby, Mark, 244

Cattle, 144

Cedar Point, Md., 247

Chairs, riding, xxiv, 33, 94, 110, 149

Chandeliers, 239

"Chantilly," Westmoreland County, Lee home, xxxi, 29, 125, 169, 202, 243, 247, 248 dancing school at, 202

Chariots, 33, 34, 37, 41, 42, 47, 87, 125, 157, 172

Charles City County, 248

Chatham, Lord, _see_ Pitt, William

Checks (game), 189, 216

Cheese, 90

Cheeseman, Mrs., 106

"Chelsea," King William County, Moore home, xxii

Chelton, Capt., 19, 57, 145, 241 _see also_ Chilton

Cherries, 90, 110, 118

Chesapeake Bay, 97

Chesterfield, Lord, _Letters to His Son_, 194

Chestertown, Md., 98

Chester River, 210

Chilton family, 241

Chinches, 109, 135, 138

Chintzes, 124, 130, 215

Chocolate, 55

Choirs, 195

Christenings, 35, 168, 195

Christian, Francis, dancing master, xxx, 19, 32, 33, 34, 66, 123, 124, 125, 178, 241 strict discipline of, 34 Mrs. Francis, 178 Frank, pupil of John Lowe, 150, 206

Christmas, entertainment and good fellowship at, 33-34, 39-40 firing of powder at, 39, 244 _see also_ Christmas boxes

Christmas boxes, 40, 54

Cider, 57, 90

Clerks, xxix, 38, 177 _see also_ Francks, Dr.; Randolph, Mr.

Cliosophic Society, 240

Clothing, women's, 57 _see also_ Aprons, Broadcloth, Brocades, Calico gowns, Caps, Chintzes, Fashions, Hats, Headdress, Gauze, Laces, Quilts, Silks, Stays, Stockings, Stocks

Coaches, xxix, 152, 189, 190

Coachmen, 55, 84-85, 134

Coach-houses, 81

Coats-of-arms, 116

Cocke, Elizabeth, _see_ Jones, Elizabeth (Cocke)

Cock-fighting, 91, 96, 121, 162, 168, 190

Coffee, 32, 110, 114, 117, 122, 126, 127, 133, 142, 144, 146, 150, 156, 171, 179, 181, 189, 193, 194, 200

Coffee House, Annapolis, Md., 97, 209

Cohansey (Cohansie), N. J., 4, 14, 36, 90, 98, 100, 101, 105, 106, 114, 115, 139, 143, 174, 176, 198, 201, 206, 239, 247

Colchester, Va., 18, 240

College of New Jersey, _see_ Princeton University

College of Philadelphia, 27, 237, 248

College of William and Mary, 49, 242, 244, 248 Bob Carter at, 49 conditions at, 64-65

Combs, 206

Comedians, 98, 247

Comfrey roots, 32

Consumption, 181

Continental Congress, 169, 174, 176, 194, 195, 199

Cook, Mr., 107 family, 173

Coopers, 149, 181

Cople Parish, _see_ Anglican Church

Corbin, Betty Tayloe, _see_ Turberville, Betty Tayloe (Corbin) Gawin, 188, 242, 248 Jane (Jennie), 23, 25, 28, 31, 33, 37, 51, 56, 67, 87, 88, 93, 94, 125, 136, 188, 192, 198, 200, 242 Richard, 95, 247 family, 247

Cordials, 97

Corn, 75, 88, 94, 110, 129, 133, 142, 144, 146, 150, 152

Cornices, xxii

"Corotoman," Lancaster County, Carter home, xxvi

Corvin, Mr., 95, 247

Cotton, 185

Counterpanes, 42

Counting-rooms, xxi

Country dances, 33, 34, 57, 123, 125, 243

Courtyards, xxi, 238

Cowslips, 78

Cox, Mr., 37, 122

Crabs, 110, 141, 171, 185, 186

Craftsmen, skilled, on Carter's estate, xxix

"Crandall," Richmond County, Fauntleroy home, 19, 241

Cunningham, Mr., merchant, 23, 29, 37, 54, 56, 59, 90, 91, 110, 137, 242 dines at Nomini Hall, 23, 75, 242 Miss, 173

Currency, of Philadelphia, not accepted, 54 of Virginia and Maryland, value compared, 74, 75

Cursing, 190 _see also_ Swearing

Custis, Jacky, xvii

Custom mills, 246

Dairies, xxi, 81, 240

Damon, James, 210

Dancing, xvii, xxx, xxxi, 33, 57, 58, 120, 125, 161, 163 Anabaptists oppose, 72 of slaves, 62 Virginians addicted to, 177 _see also_ Assemblies, Balls, Country dances, Dancing masters, Dancing schools, Gavottes, Jigs, Minuets, Reels

Dancing masters, xix, xxiii, xxxi, 19, 33-34 _see also_ Christian, Francis

Dancing schools, 19, 21, 25, 168, 242 at Bushfield, 66, 111, 245 at Chantilly, 202, 248 at Nomini Hall, 32-34, 87, 88, 123-125, 178 at Stratford Hall, 50, 142, 190, 191

Debow, John, 3, 240

Deerfield, New Jersey, 6, 10, 15, 27, 100, 102, 103, 104, 240 Fithian studies at, 9, 240

Delaware River, 112

Dennis, (servant boy), 40, 51, 56, 135, 157, 182, 208

Dennis, Capt., of the _Peggy_, 110, 111 Samuel, 16

Diabetes, 149

Diaries, xxiii of Jonathan Boucher, 245 of Landon Carter, 245 of Robert Wormeley Carter, 245

Dice, 29

Digges (Diggs), Edward, of "Bellfield," 248 Mr., 97 family, 247

Dobby, Capt., of the _Susannah_, 122, 150, 152, 153

Doctors, 39, 51, 67, 68, 69, 86, 88, 122, 156, 157, 205, 243, 244, 246

Donaldson, Mr., 107

Donnald, Nathaniel, Jr., 175 letter to, 173-174

Dotterell (horse), 52, 244

Dovecots, xx

Drinking and Drunkenness, 65, 70, 153, 172, 200, 241 _see also_ Bitters, Brandy, Cider, Cordials, Grogg, Porter, Punch, Toddy, Wine

Ducks, 76

Duffield, John, 179, 248

Dulaney, Daniel, 239

Dumfries, Va., 56, 69, 79, 196 as shipping center, 18, 240

Dunlap, John, 122, 247

Dunmore, John Murray, Earl of, 110, 187, 245 Charlotte Murray, Lady, 63, 65, 79, 245

Durham, Bishop of, 241

Dysentery, xxxii, 137-138, 171

Earrings, 130

Earthquakes, 69

East India College, Hertford, England, 245

East India Company, 169

Eclipse (horse), 244

Eclipses, 117

Edmundson, Dolly, 154 Dorothy, 248 Thomas, 248 family, 248

Education, based on English traditions, xvi free school in Richmond County, 248 planters provide for in wills, xix practical and polite subjects prescribed, xvii Virginians at English and Scotch schools and universities, xviii, xix Virginians at Inns of Court, xix, xxvi William and Mary College, _see_ College of William and Mary worth assessed, 161 _see also_ Books, Dancing masters, Governesses, Music masters, Offices, Schoolmasters, Tutors

Edwards, Miss, 136 Thomas, 193, 194

Egg and dart, decorative motif, xxii

Eggs, 140, 151

Electricity, lectures on, 98, 247

"Eliza," _see_ Beatty, Elizabeth

Elmer, Dr., 69, 101

Elmore, Betsy, 9

Elsenborough, N. J., 99

"Elsing Green," King William County, Dandridge home, xxii

England, 95, 172 education of Virginians in, xviii-xix, xxvi-xxvii, 242 endeavors to develop resources of Virginia, xiii Parliament of, 110, 113, 131 royal family, toasts to, 59, 64, 128-129, 138 Tidewater Virginia maintains close contact with, xiii tutors and governesses from, xix, 89, 90, 112 Virginia aristocracy modeled on gentry of, xvi

English language, 94

"Epping Forest," Lancaster County, Ball home, xxii

Eruptive fever, 138

Essex County, 243, 247, 248

Evans, Israel, 106, 247

Ewing, Mr., 17, 101, 107, 174 Miss, 6 Amy, 103-104 Matty, 101 Sally, 101

Factories, textile, xvi, xxviii _see also_ Mills

Factors, xvi

Fairfax County, 240

Fairfax family, xxvi

Falling gardens, xx, 237 at Sabine Hall, 237

Fans, 130

Farming, _see_ Agriculture

Fashions, discussions of, 29, 90, 93, 168

Fasts, political, 110, 111 Carter family does not observe, 111

Fauntleroy (Fantilroy), Mr., 25, 28, 63, 68, 73 Mrs., 73 Aphia, 136, 154, 241 Elizabeth, 156 Henry (Harry), 207, 241 Juliet, 241 Mary, _see_ Giberne, Mary (Fauntleroy Beale) Dr. Moore, 45, 241, 244 pronunciation of name, 241 Samuel, 241 Samuel Griffin, 62, 245 William, 244 family, 33, 79, 88, 241, 243 homes of, 241

Fauquier County, 241

_Felton's Gavott_, 75, 245

Fences, 74

Fencing, xvii

Fenning, _Arithmetic_, 25

Ferguson, Andrew, 107

Fiddles, 161 slaves play, 62

Figs, 178

Fish, 75, 76, 90, 132, 141, 145, 171, 185, 186

Fish feasts, xxxi, 147, 150, 156, 162, 168, 172, 177, 183

Fisher, Mr., 195, 242

Fishermen, 145

Fisher and Cunningham (merchants), 23, 242

Fishing, 75

Fithian, Amos, 100, 103 "Aunt," 98, 100 Elizabeth (Beatty), _see_ Beatty, Elizabeth Enoch, copies manuscripts of brother, xxxi Joel, marries widow of Philip Fithian, 17, 240 Philip Vickers, xxvii, xxxi-xxxii, 3-7, 9-11, 15, 16, 22, 24, 26, 27, 32, 37, 55-56, 57, 67-68, 70, 71, 78, 85, 93, 96-97, 100, 107, 114-115, 118, 126, 131, 134, 140, 141, 144, 145, 147, 149, 151, 158, 170, 171, 177-178, 180, 184, 210, 241 accepts position as tutor, xxiv, 6-7 admiration and affection for Carter family, xxxii, 111, 207, 214-217 advises Peck on conduct as tutor, 159-168 attends balls, 56-57, 154-155 attends races, 24-25, 150-151, 154 Carter approves teaching of, 93 catalogues library at Nomini Hall, 119 Col. Lee offends, 52 completes Latin thesis, 158 contrasts Virginia with New Jersey, 60-61, 100, 159-163, 167-168 corresponds with "Belinda," 170 death of parents, 239 declines additional pupils, 25 despondency of, 108, 109, 114-115, 127, 171 early life and education of, xxv, xxxii, 159, 205, 239 enters Presbyterian ministry, xxxii George Lee offends, 57, 244 hesitation over going to Virginia, 7, 9-10, 16, 46-47 illness and death of, xxxii later career of, xxxii letters from, to Elizabeth Beatty, 8-9, 10-11, 12-13, 35-36, 53, 115-116, 139-140, 179-180, 210-212, 212-214 to Benjamin Carter, 198-199 to Nancy Carter, 215-216 to Priscilla Carter, 214-215 to Robert Carter III, 217 to Robert Bladen Carter, 201-202, 216 to Nathaniel Donnald, 173-174 to Samuel Fithian, 117 to Rev. Enoch Green, 21, 26-27 to Andrew Hunter, Jr., 4-5 to Andrew Hunter, Sr., 113 to George Lee, 151 to John Lowe, 126, 207-208 to John McCalla, 175-176 to John Peck, 143, 159-168 to Larkin Randall, 197-198 to Mrs. Charlotte Thornton, 201 to Paletiah Webster, 172-173 to Ruth Webster, 174-175 to Harry Willis, 201-202 to Dr. John Witherspoon, 9-10 letters to, from, Andrew Hunter, Jr., 3-4, 11-12 from William R. Smith, 14-15 makes sketches of Nomini Hall, 148 manuscripts long unpublished, xxxi marries Elizabeth Beatty, xxxii poem by, 24 premonition of death, 171 Presbyterian training of, xxv regrets inability to dance, 33, 43 regular habits of, 155 retirement agreeable to, 72, 129 returns to New Jersey, 208 reviews his life, 45-47 salary and perquisites as tutor, 6, 31-32, 200 tolerant attitude of, xxv travels as missionary, xxxii urged to marry in Virginia, 131 views on slavery, 38, 84-85, 92, 132, 187 visits and dines at other plantations, 67, 69, 75, 88, 89, 156 warned of immorality in Virginia, 46-47 Samuel, 240 letter to, 117, 118 Seeley, 100 Tempy, 107 "Uncle," 117

Fitzhugh, William, xv, xvii

Flats, 75

Flax, 88, 152

Flood, Alice, _see_ Jones, Alice (Flood) Dr. William, physician and turfman, 24, 95, 242, 244

Flour, 75, 144, 246

Flowers, artificial, 124, 130 _see also_ Gardens

Flutes, 49, 68, 82, 202, 207 _see also_ German flutes

Flux, 129, 158 _see also_ Bloody flux

Fodder, 81, 112, 114

Foot races, 59

Ford, Mrs., 65 Miss, 155

Forfeits, 88, 201

Forte pianos, 22, 26, 30, 41, 55, 66, 69

Foundries, xvi

Fountain Inn, Baltimore, Md., 53

Foxes, 141

Fox hunts, 34

Francks, Dr. Henry, 43, 67, 244

Frederick, Md., 98, 247

Frederick County, 147

Fredericksburg, 35, 69 academy at, 244 races at, 203

Free schools, in Richmond County, 248

French horns, 57

French language, 90

Frets, in decoration of homes, xxii

Fried chicken, 208

Friezes, in planters' homes, xxii

Frontiers, Indian disturbances on, 187

Funeral hymns, 132, 133

Gage, Governor Thomas, of Massachusetts, 191

Galloway, Nancy, 96

Gambling, 241 _see also_ Betting, Gaming

Games, at Nomini Hall, 34 _see also_ All Fours, Billiards, Button, Break the Pope's Neck, Cards, Checks, Seven-Up

Gaming, 29, 200 Anabaptists oppose, 72

Garden houses, xx

Gardners, xx, 44, 63

Gardening, handbooks on, xix _see also_ titles of catalogue in Appendix

Gardens, xix-xx, 106, 110, 112 at Bushfield, 67 at Lee Hall, 175 at Mount Airy, 95 at Nomini Hall, 43-44, 63, 78-79, 83 _see also_ Falling gardens, Gardeners, Garden houses

Gargles, 64

Garrot, Miss, 156

Gaskins, Betsy, 136 Colonel Thomas, 248 family, 248

Gauze, 124, 215

Gavottes, 75, 246

_Gentleman's Magazine_, 70, 71

Geography, 194

Georgetown, Md., 18, 98, 108, 240

German flutes, 30

Giberne (Gibbern), Rev. Isaac William, 20, 28, 68, 111, 241, 248 attends ball at Lee Hall, 57 convivial habits of, 200, 241 marries widow of Charles Beale, 241 opposes Anabaptists, 72-73 sketch of, 241 Mary (Fauntleroy Beale), 57, 241

Gibson, John, 16

Gift (horse), 95

Gloucester County, 248

"Golden Age," in Tidewater Virginia, xiii

Good Friday, 88

Goodlet, Mr., schoolmaster, 62, 63 barred out of school, 34, 243

Gooseberries, 110

Gordon, Mr., 25, 243 George, C., 243

Gouging, 63, 183

Governesses, 156 from England, xix, 89, 90

Graham, Dr. (oculist), 188, 248

Grain, Virginia counties suited for, 114

Granaries, 82, 145, 189

Great houses, xx, 59 _see also_ Manor houses

Great Meadows, Carter tracts, at, 79

Greek language, 54, 106, 163, 190

_Greek Testament_, 101, 103, 128

Green, Rev. Enoch, 4, 25, 46, 100, 101, 102, 149, 159, 240 Fithian studies under, 240 letters to, 21, 26-27 Mary (Beatty), 4, 21, 27, 100, 105

Greenman, Thomas, 100, 102

Greens (vegetables), 90

Greenwich, N. J., 6, 9, 10, 18, 99, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 134, 239

Gregory, Mr., gardener, 68, 74, 78, 245

Griggs, (Grigg), Capt., 52, 76, 243 visits Nomini Hall, 31

Grimes, Miss, 6

Grist mills, 82, 246

Grog, 142

Grubb, Mr., 125, 128, 130, 157, 171, 172, 175, 177, 179

Guitars, 28, 30, 36, 51, 55, 71, 79, 132, 133, 216

Gusts (storms), 144

Guthrie, Capt., 138

Ha-has, xx, 238

Hale, _see_ Heale

Halkinson, Mrs., 209

Hamilton, Mr., merchant, 29, 195 accident of, 69

Hammond, _Expositor of the New Testament_, 111

Handkerchiefs, 29, 168

Hanover County, 244

Harmonicas, 30, 181, 243 Robert Carter plays on, 37, 158

Harness, 189

Harpsichords, xxii, 123, 124, 157 at Hobb's Hole, 156 at Mount Airy, 95, 152 at Nomini Hall, 26, 36, 111, 121

_Harriot_ (ship), 149

Harrison, Col., of Maryland, 59 Col., of Virginia, 195 Benjamin, of "Berkeley," 248

Hartshorn, spirits of, 32

Hats, gold-laced, 69

Hay, 81

Headdress, 90, 125

Heale, George, 246 Priscilla, 88, 123-125, 178, 246 family, 246 name pronounced Hale, 88, 246

Heith, Mr., 5

Henley, Rev. Samuel, quarrels with Bracken, 65, 79, 245

Henry, _History of Great Britain_, 188

"Hickory Hill," Westmoreland County, Turberville home, xxxi, 23, 42, 45, 53, 89, 90, 118, 121, 129, 130, 136, 177-178, 192, 194, 206, 207, 242 dancing school at, 75 fish feasts at, 147 Fithian dines at, 47, 89-90, 192

Highways, gates on, 97 water routes as, xxiii

Hobb's Hole (Tappahannock), 27, 40, 79, 95, 131, 152, 243 ball at, 154-155 boat races at, 150, 153-154 description of, 152-153 post office at, 118 trade and shipping at, 152-153, 154, 243

Hodge, Mr., merchant, 196, 198

Hoe-cakes, 55

Holidays, 43, 65, 88, 91, 92

Hollingshead, Mr., 5, 103, 176 Mrs., 176 Sally, 62, 75 family, 106

Holmes, Benjamin, 13, 14 John, 13

Homer, 130

Honey, 194

Honey Suckle, 78

Horace, 190

Horn Point, 76, 77, 89

Horses, 32, 70, 115, 119, 167 conversations regarding, 95, 119, 177 distempers of, 129 passion of Carter boys for, 70, 190 _see also_ Horse racing

Horse racing, xxxi, 52, 121, 162, 168, 186, 187 at Fredericksburg, 203 at "Hickory Hill," 201-202 at Richmond Court House, 24-25, 242

Hoshel, Mr., 103, 105 Mrs., 16 Michael, 18

Hospitality, universal among Virginians, xxiii, 29, 43, 89-90, 238-239

Hostlers, 32, 70, 91

Housekeepers, _see_ Nomini Hall

House-warmings, 43

Howel, Mr., 105, 107 Dicky, 102 Richard, 6

Huckleberries, 128

Hunt, Mr., 97

Hunter, Rev. Andrew, Jr., 5, 6, 9, 14, 15, 17, 100, 105, 113, 149 letters from Fithian, 4-5 letters to Fithian, 3-4, 11-12 Rev. Andrew, Sr., 6, 14, 15, 17, 27, 46, 55, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 105, 106, 113, 115, 118, 149, 206, 240 letter from Fithian, 113 prepares Fithian for ministry, 239 Mrs. Andrew, 105, 113

Hurtleberries, 132

Hut, Mrs., 62

Hymns, 120, 247 _see also_ Funeral hymns

Imlay, William Eugene, 12, 15, 240

Indentured servants, xiv

Indians, disturb frontiers, 187

"Infancy" (song), 71

Ink, 206 _see also_ Printers' Ink

Inner Temple, _see_ Inns of Court

Inns of Court, Virginians at, xix Robert Carter registers at Inner Temple, xxvi-xxvii

Inspectors, 138, 141-142, 156, 195

Irishmen, as coopers, 149

Iron, xxviii, 79, 82, 144, 145 _see also_ Baltimore Iron Works

Irwin, Mr., 8, 15, 17

Isle of Wight County, 129

Jail fever, 68, 69

James' Powder, 133

James River, 172

Jennifer, Thomas, 206

Jennings, Mr., 29, 90

Jessamines, 147

John (table servant), 54, 142 as musician, 120

Jones, Alice (Flood), 69, 244 Betsy, 180 Elizabeth (Cocke), 244 Col. Thomas, 243, 244 Dr. Walter, 39, 68, 69, 122, 157, 243, 244 member of American Philosophical Society, 69 family, 63, 87, 244

Junius, _Letters_, 91, 92

Keith, Mr., 106

Kent Island, Md., 210, 248

King and Queen County, 247

"Kinsail," Westmoreland County, Flood home, 242

Kitchens, xxi, 81, 238

Knives, 70

Laces, 124, 215

Laidler, Mrs., ferry of, 109, 208

Lancaster County, 244, 245

Land, efforts to engross, xiv estates composed of numerous tracts, xv _see also_ Agriculture, Tenancy

Lane, Joseph, 35, 69, 75, 172, 200, 243 Mrs. Joseph, 56, 58, 172 Joseph F., of Loudoun County, 69-70, 72, 75, 83, 84, 245

"Laneville," King and Queen County, Corbin home, 247

Latin classics, 101, 163

Latin language, 72, 77, 78, 106

Latin thesis, Fithian completes, 158

"Laura," _see_ Beatty, Elizabeth

Law, books on, xviii Carter reads, 48 Virginians at Inns of Court, xix, xxvi-xxvii, 239 _see also_ titles of catalogue in Appendix

"Lawfield," Westmoreland County, Parker home, 248

Lawn, 215

Lawyers, 88, 137, 248 Scotchmen as, 47

Leake (Leek), John, 100 Nathan, 102 Samuel, Jr., 95, 102, 148, 200, 201, 247

Lebanon Hospital, 106

Lee, Mr., of Augusta County, 58 Alice, _see_ Shippen, Alice (Lee) Arthur, 248 Betsy, 35, 125, 129-130, 131, 136, 158, 172, 177, 178, 243, 247 Col. Francis Lightfoot, of "Menokin," 59, 64, 93, 114, 202, 245, 248 George, 25, 38, 57, 90, 125, 130, 148, 150, 151, 244, 247 letter to, 151 George Fairfax, 57, 242, 244 Henry ("Light Horse Harry"), of "Leesylvania," 56, 57, 62, 240, 243, 244 at Princeton, 14, 240 John, of Essex County, 243, 247 Capt. John, 64 description of, 58 Judith (Wormeley), 247 Lancelot, 23, 29, 128, 130, 138, 148, 177, 194, 242 returns from England, 23 Matilda, 35, 243 Col. Philip Ludwell, of "Stratford Hall," 34, 51, 87, 145, 243, 244 Rebecca (Tayloe), wife of Col. Francis Lightfoot Lee, 64 "Squire" Richard, of "Lee Hall," 29, 53, 57, 90, 121, 128, 169, 175, 240, 243 at Nomini Hall, 29 "Squire" Richard, of Maryland, 96, 97, 243 Col. Richard Henry, of "Chantilly," 125, 194, 243, 247, 248

Robert E., 240 Thomas, of "Stratford Hall," 243, 245, 247 Thomas Ludwell, of "Bellevue," 19, 241 William, 248 family, 23, 28, 33, 34, 35, 51-52, 55, 56, 57, 58, 87, 96, 130-131, 178, 242, 243, 244, 247, 248

"Lee Hall," Westmoreland County, Home of Squire Richard Lee, 67, 84, 206, 242, 243, 244 ball at, 47, 53, 56-57, 58, 244

Leech, Mr., 196

Leeds, 63, 189, 196, 245 school at, 63

Leek, _see_ Leake

"Leesylvania," Prince William Countty, Lee home, 244

Lent, 141

Liberty Songs, 57

Libraries, in planters' homes, xvii-xviii, 6, 119 _see also_ titles of catalogue in Appendix

Lightning, _see_ Thunder and lightning

Linseed oil, 190

Liquors, 153, 155

Logic, 194

London, 89, 113, 128, 208, 211 newspapers from, 121

Lotteries, 13, 98

Loudoun County, 114

Lowe, John, 41, 90, 96, 106, 125, 126, 137, 142, 150, 178, 179, 200, 207, 208, 244 letters to, 126, 207-208 tutor at "Bushfield," 41, 244

Lowndes, Christopher, 239

Lyon, James, 101, 247

McCall, Miss, 155

McCalla, Mr., 106 John, Jr., 15, 106, 175, 240 letter to, 175-176

McConkey, Mr., 8

McCorkle, Samuel, 3, 240

Machodoc River, 143, 144, 145

Magazines, 89, 188 _see also_ _Gentleman's Magazine_, _Monthly Review_, _Universal Magazine_

Manor houses, activities about, xxiii-xxiv architecture of, xx-xxi description of interiors, xxi-xxii names of, xxii sites of, xxiii two entrances to, xxiii _see also_ Great houses

Manor plantations, xv, 237, 246 as centers of estates, xv as residences of proprietors, xv, 237 in Northern Neck, xxx-xxxi

Manufactories, xvi on estate of Robert Carter, xxviii _see also_ Mills

Manure, 89

Marble, Sienna, xxi

Marches, 57

Marcus Hook, N. J., 107

Marlborough, Md., 97, 109, 209, 247

"Marmion," King George County, Fitzhugh home, xxii

"Mars Hill," Richmond County, Fauntleroy home, 241

Marshall, James, tutor, 48, 134, 247-248

Marshes, xiii

Martha (servant), 54

Mashell, Daniel, 16

Masonic Order, 69

Mathematics, xvii _see also_ Arithmetic; titles of catalogue in Appendix

Mathews, Mr., steward, 86

Mattox Bridge, 96, 110, 247

Mattox Church, 96, 110

Maund, E., 246 John James, 246 _see also_ Carter, Harriot Lucy

Mead, 106

Meddleton, _see_ Middleton

Medicine, xviii _see also_ titles of catalogue in Appendix

Menzies, Mr., tutor, xviii

Merchant Mills, 68, 75, 82, 246

Merchants, 23, 173, 174, 176, 242 at Dumfries, 196 at Hobb's Hole, 154, 248 at Leeds, 196 planters as, xxviii Scotchmen, as, 29, 90 _see also_ Blain, Cunningham, Hamilton, Jennings

Metastasio, 243-244

Middleton, Capt., 75, 76, 246 daughters of, 76

Middleton, Del., 108, 247

Militia, Carter as Colonel of, xxix

Millar, Squire, 100

Mills, grain, xvi, xxviii, 246 of Robert Carter, 63, 74-75, 82, 88, 170-171, 189, 190, 194, 246 of John Turberville, 82 of J. A. Washington, 82 _see also_ Baltimore Iron Works, Custom mills, Grist mills, Merchant mills, Toll mills

Mills, Mrs., 100 David, 100

Milton, John, quoted, 78

Minerva, 130

Minuets, 33, 34, 52, 57, 123, 124, 125, 154

Mocking-birds, 76

Moll, _Atlas_, 157

Monday's Point, _see_ Munday's Point

Monkeys, 183

_Monthly Review_, 72

Morgan (overseer), 38 Dr. John, 95, 247

Morris, Robert, 246

"Mount Airy," Richmond County, Tayloe home, xxxi, 120, 136, 142, 151, 152, 204, 242, 245, 246, 248 compared to Nomini Hall, 94, 246 description of, 94-95, 246 Fithian visits, 94-95, 156 gardens at, 95 offices at, xxi

"Mount Pleasant," Westmoreland County, Lee home, 23, 242, 247 fish feast at, 150

Mulberries, 130

Munro, Mr., 206

Music, xxxi at Lee Hall, 57 at Mount Airy, 152 at Nomini Hall, 30, 37, 42, 43, 47, 48, 62, 65, 66, 68, 69, 71, 75, 111, 119, 120, 122, 123-124, 125, 127, 132, 200, 243, 247 by slaves, 120 Carter invents device for testing instruments, 43 instruments owned by Carter, 30, 51 religious, 101, 124, 127, 132, 158, 247 vocal, 124, 127, 132 _see also_ Anglican Church, Anthems, Balls, Dancing schools, Hymns, Music masters, Musical instruments, Musicians, Shakes, Singing masters, Songs, Sonatas

Music masters, xix, 22, 28, 79, 120, 158, 187, 203, 204, 242 _see also_ Stadley, Mr.

Musical instruments, xxix, xxx _see also_ Banjos, Fiddles, Flutes, Forte-pianos, French horns, Harmonicas, Harpsichords, Organs, Spinets, Violins

Musicians, 120

Musk melons, 169

Mutton, 141

Nails, xxiv

Nassau Hall, _see_ Princeton University

Nat (servant), 96, 146, 201

Navigation Acts, effects, of, on tobacco industry, xiv

Neal, Mr., 77

Nectarines, 175

Nelson (servant), 78, 91, 96, 157, 185, 200, 208

New England Town, N. J., 102

"New grounds," _see_ Agriculture

New Jersey, contrasted with Virginia, 60-61, 100, 159-164, 167-168 Fithian returns to, 208-210 _see also_ names of towns in

Newington, Pa., 77, 127

New York, Lady Dunmore arrives at, 63, 245

Newspapers, 40, 131 irregular delivery of, 203 _see also_ _Pennsylvania Gazette_, _Pennsylvania Packet_, _Virginia Gazette_

Newton, Md., 108, 247

Nomini Church, Cople Parish, Westmoreland County, 20, 23, 29, 31, 144, 148, 172, 241 advertisement at door of, 29 Carter family attends often, 31

"Nomini Hall," Westmoreland County, Carter home, xxiv-xxv, xxvii, xxviii, xxix, xxxii area, the, at, 44, 81 ball at, 35 Carter family returns from Williamsburg to, xxix, 44 center of Carter estate, xxvii-xxviii clerks at, 38, 177 _see also_ Francks, Dr. Henry; Randolph, Mr. compared to Mount Airy, 94 dancing school at, 32-34, 87-88, 123-125, 178-179 description of, xxix-xxx, 80-82, 110, 115-116 fire destroys great house, 246 Fithian arrives at, 19 gardeners at, 44, 63 gardens at, 67, 78-79, 81, 83, 112, 116, 118, 123, 125, 145, 150, 156, 178 graves at, 61, 245 guests at, _passim_ housekeeper at, 55, 134, 185, 243 _see also_ Stanhope, Sarah library catalogued, 119, 247 life at, described by Fithian, 31-32, 116 music at, _see_ Music offices at, 80-82 orchards at, 90 owned by descendants of Robert Carter, 246 park planned for, 44 plans of residence, 59-60, 146, 181 poplar avenue at, 73, 81, 142 postillion at, 42, 70, 146 provisions consumed at, 75, 199 quarters of Fithian at, 81 school at, 20, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 66, 70, 81, 111, 112, 116, 118, 119, 120, 122, 127, 128 sketches of, made by Fithian, 146, 148, 181 stables at, 59, 81, 86 storehouses at, 81 study of Robert Carter, 64, 80 terraces at, 81 wood fires at, 61, 73

Nomini River, 67, 68, 77, 80, 90, 125, 143, 145, 152, 192, 206 mills on, 81-82

Norfolk, 138, 145

North, Lord Frederick, burnt in effigy in Richmond County, 122

Northern Neck, xxv, xxx-xxxi, 21, 241, 242, 245 Fithian describes life in, 21 gay and hospitable society in, xxx-xxxi Presbyterian Church in, 73, 245

Northumberland County, 201, 243, 245, 246, 248

Norton, John, 237

Nurses, 131 _see also_ Mrs. Oakley _see also_ Wet nurses

Oakley, Mrs., nurse, xxx, 131, 133, 135, 137, 141, 142, 146

Oaks, 144

Oats, 97

Occoquan River, 240

Oculists, 248

Offices (subsidiary buildings about great house), xx-xxi, 238 as counting-rooms, xxi as foils for great house, xxi, 80-81, 238 as kitchens, xxi, 59, 81, 95, 238 as schoolrooms, xix, xxi, 59, 81 as sleeping quarters, xxi at Mount Airy, 95 at Nomini Hall, xxix-xxx, 79-81 at "Rosegill," xxi

Ogle, Samuel, 239

Ohio River, settlements on, 58

Old Sarum, England, xxvii

Onions, 190

Orange County, 248

Orangeries, xx

Orchards, xx

Ordinaries, meaning of term in Virginia, 177 _see also_ Taverns

Organs, xxx, 30, 37, 51

Ovens, 75

Overseers, xvi, xxiii, xxix, 37, 38, 50, 86, 129, 146, 185 cruelty to slaves, 85, 129

Oxen, 61, 73

Oxford University, Virginians at, xix

Oysters, 29

Oyster shells, walks of, xx, 81

Page, John, Jr., 237

Paintings, xxii, 94-95

Pamphlets, 119

Paneling, in plantation houses, xxi-xxii

Panton, Sally, governess, 89, 91, 93, 110, 136, 177, 246 description of, 90

Paris net, 215

Parker, Mr., 181 Richard, 248

Parks, xx, 44

Parks, Tom, 134 William, 245

Parliament, _see_ England

Parterres, xx

Patapsco River, 18, 240

Patterson, Mr., 12, 15, 17, 103, 104

Patuxent Ferry, Md., 97, 209, 247

Patuxent River, 109, 247

Peachem, Henry, _The Compleat Gentleman_, xvii

"Peach Hill," Lancaster County, Heale home, 246

Peaches, 90, 113, 114, 175, 177, 194

Peas, 78, 96

Peck, Mrs., 6, 16, 100, 104, 240 Abby, 16 Ben, 104 John, 16, 18, 25, 102, 105, 107, 118, 128, 146, 149, 150, 169, 171, 177, 179, 202, 203, 205, 206-207, 208, 215, 216, 217, 240 arrives in Virginia, 206 letters to, 112, 143, 159-168 marries Nancy Carter, 240 Rachel, 100

_Peggy_ (ship), 110

Penknives, 119

Pennington, Sir John, 244

Penn's Neck, N. J., 18

Pennsylvania, 83 Fithian visits as missionary, xxxii _see also_ names of towns in

_Pennsylvania Gazette_, 40, 69

_Pennsylvania Packet_, 247

Persimmons, 54, 73-74, 86

Peruvian bark, 17, 64

Pettit, Lydia, 136, 179

Philadelphia, 11, 59, 70, 75, 77, 78, 94, 106, 125, 126, 138, 169, 179, 201, 211, 217, 247, 248

Virginians at, 174-176, 180, 194-195

Philosophy, Carter reads, 53, 117 _see also_ titles of catalogue in Appendix

Pictet, Benjamin, _Theologia Christiana_, Fithian studies, _passim_

Piedmont Virginia, Presbyterian Church in, 73, 245 Tidewater plantation economy spreads to, 238

Pierce, Miss, 67, 200

Pilasters, xxii

Pines, 76, 89, 144

Piscataway, Md., 97, 109, 209, 247

Pitt, William, 91

Plantations, of Robert Carter III, xxviii names of, xxviii separated by wooded tracts, xxiii, 238 size of, xiv-xv typical activity on, xxiii-xxiv _see also_ Manor houses, Manor plantations

Planters, aristocratic ideals of, xvi correspondence with merchants overseas, xvi, xxii desire polite accomplishments for sons, xvi-xvii dominate social and political life, xv education of children of, _see_ Education extravagance and debts of, 27 homes modeled on residences of English gentry, xix hospitality of, xxiii, 29, 43, 90, 238-239 libraries of, xvii-xviii not absentee landlords, xvi varied economic functions of, xvi, xxviii-xxix

Plater, Gov. George, of Maryland, 246

Plato, 91

Pleurisy, 75

Plows, xxiv, 88-89

Plums, 90

Poetry, 24, 72,73 Carter comment on, 71

Pokeberries, 206

Politics, _see_ American Revolution, Planters

Pomegranates, 194

Pope's Homer, 39, 112

Porpoises, 135

Porter, 57, 77, 90, 138, 141, 208

Port Penn, Del., 98, 99, 107, 108, 210

Port Tobacco, Md., 97, 109, 206, 247

Porticos, at Nomini Hall, 80

Postal system, 25, 27, 40, 77, 150, 215

Postillions, 42, 70, 141, 146

Potatoes, 96, 140, 193

Potomac River, 22, 41, 55, 76, 77, 89, 90, 109, 114, 128, 143, 144, 145, 171, 172, 206, 240, 242, 243, 245

Potter, Mr., 100, 103

Powder (gun), 147

Powder (hair), 135

Pratt, Debby, 102, 103, 106, 107, 176

Presbyterian Church, 61, 90, 97, 105, 126, 246 Fithian qualifies for ministry of, xxxii, 22, 96, 101, 102, 106, 242 Fithian serves as missionary in, xxxii in Northern Neck, 73, 245 in Piedmont Virginia, 245 in Valley of Virginia, 245 opposition to ministers of, 73, 245 salaries of clergy of, 200

_Present State of Music in Germany_, 152

Prickly pears, 123

Primers, 119

Primogeniture, custom of, xxvi

Prince (slave), 132

Princeton, N. J., 6, 12, 14, 69, 209, 217, 247 _see also_ Princeton University

Princeton Historical Association, xxxii

Princeton University (Nassau Hall), 3, 13, 14, 27, 87, 105, 127, 143, 163, 170, 192-193, 239, 240, 247, 248 commencement at, 12-13, 14, 192-193 tutors from, xix, 237 _see also_ Princeton, N. J., Witherspoon, Dr. John

Printers' ink, 190

Printing presses, 248

Prisons, 187

Profanity, 76 _see also_ Swearing

Psalm tunes, 127, 247

Puddings, 90

Pumpkins, 193

Punch, 57, 142, 157

Purchase, Capt., 154, 156

Putrid fever, 98, 99

Putrid quinsy, 64, 202

Quarters, on plantations, 178, 244

Queen Anne County, Md., 112

Queenstown, Md., 210, 248

Quilts, 124 cotton diaper, 125 silk, 131

Races, in Maryland, 108, 210 _see also_ Horse-racing, Boat races, Foot races

Ramsey, Mrs., 101 James, 100 John, 100

Randall, Mr., 188 Larkin, letter to, 197-198 _see also_ Randolph, Mr.

Randolph, Mr. (clerk and steward), xxx, 38, 41, 54, 55, 65, 73, 74, 75, 78, 81, 91, 111, 119, 133, 156, 169, 177, 181 Col. T. M., of "Tuckahoe," hospitality of, 239

Ranney, Stephen, 16, 100, 105

Rappahannock River, 40, 95, 146, 150, 153, 188, 241

Rattle-snakes, 185, 186

Reed, Coley, 188

Reels, 57, 123, 125

Reese, Oliver, 3, 75, 240, 246

Reeve, Mrs., 206, 210 Stephen, 105, 108, 247

Religion, _see_ Anglican Church, Baptist Church, Presbyterian Church, Slaves

Sabbath, the observance of in Virginia, 72-73, 137, 167 Anabaptists oppose diversions on, 72-73 slaves work on, 202-203

"Sabine Hall," Richmond County, Carter home, 136 entertainment at, 171-172 falling gardens at, 237-238

Saddle-bags, 19

Sailors, 69, 77

Sallust, 20, 28, 37, 128

Salt, 129

Saltpeter, 171

Salt works, xxviii

Sam (barber), 54, 91, 158, 199

Sanford, Miss, 67 Mr., 54

Sashes, 206

Savins, 74, 76, 89, 144, 178

Schoolmasters, 63, 176 Scotchmen as, 25 take orders in Anglican Church, 25, 243

Schoolrooms, xxi, 31, 34, 59 tutor barred out, 34

Schooners, 67, 145, 153 owned by Carter, 67, 77

Scotchmen, 179 as lawyers, 47 as merchants and shopkeepers, 29, 109, 242 as schoolmasters and tutors xix, 29, 90, 94

Scotch universities, Virginians at, 243, 244, 246

Scotland, 90, 126

Scott, Capt., 77

_Sea Nymph_ (ship), 107

Sedans, xxiii

Seeley, Mr., 101 "Uncle," 173, 210 Ephraim, 149 Ephraim, Jr., 102

Serpentine drives, xx

Seven-Up (game), 247

Shakes, 132

Sheep, 144, 178

Shenandoah Valley, 245

Shippen, Alice (Lee), 248 Dr. William, 179, 248

Ships, xxiii, 77, 154, 189 Planters own, xvi, xxviii refused cargoes of tobacco, 113

Shoemakers, 96

Shopkeepers, Scotchmen as, 242

Shrove Tuesday, 65

Silks, 57

Silver, xxii Mrs. Carter imports, 189

Silversmiths, 105

Simpson, Mr., 84, 87, 128

Singing masters, 195

Skating, 54-55, 56

Slavery, Fithian expresses views on, 38-39, 84-85, 92, 132, 187 Mrs. Carter discusses, 92 sermon on, 192 _see also_ Slaves

Slaves, 74, 94, 133, 137, 140, 154, 167, 172, 184-185 accompany Carter family to church, 110 allowed plots for cultivation, 96 cruelty to, 38-39, 84-85 dancing of, 62 education of, 182-183 grief felt by, 184 holidays for, 91, 92 illness among, 68, 182 of Robert Carter, xxviii, 79, 132 rations of, 38 religion of, 151-152 Sabbath observance by, 202-203 testimony not accepted in courts, 192 value considered, 92, 132

Sloes, 194

Sloops, xxiii

Smallpox, xix

Smallswords, 161

Smith, John Augustine, 242 Philip, 83 Rev. Thomas, 22, 23, 42, 51, 56-57, 63, 67, 83, 88, 89, 110, 126, 137, 145, 172, 192, 200, 242 Mrs. Thomas, 42, 51, 57, 67, 88, 179 William R., 8, 13, 15, 17, 240 letter to Fithian, 14-15

Smith family (outlaws), 86, 87, 190

Smithies, xxiv, xxviii

Smoke-houses, xxi

Snuffboxes, 206

Social life, aristocratic ideals of, xvi at Nomini Hall, described by Fithian, 31-32 characteristic dress of women, 29 chariots kept by well-to-do planters 29 customs and manners compared with those of New Jersey, 100, 159-163, 167-168 erroneous impressions concerning, 46-47 formality in, 90 haughtiness common in, 178 modeled on that of English gentry, xvi politeness and hospitality, 29, 43, 90 recent changes in, 27 _see also_ Amusements, Religion

Socrates, 115

Sofas, 239

Soil, depletion of, _see_ Agriculture

Solar system, 117

Sonatas, 68, 75, 82

Songs, 37, 71, 132, 243-244 _see also_ Liberty songs

Sons of America, 57

Sons of Liberty, 59

Sorrel, Mr., 186, 187, 191, 248 Thomas, 248

Spelling-books, 20

Spinets, xxii, 123, 125

Sports, xxiii

Spotted fever, 98

Stables, 59, 81, 86

Stadley, Mr., music master, xxx, 22, 28, 79, 82, 120, 121, 138, 141, 142, 158, 169, 187, 203, 204, 242

Stafford County, 241

Stafford Court House, Va., 19, 58, 241

Stairways, xxii, xxiii

Stanhope, Sarah (Sally), 55, 67, 68, 83, 110, 116, 185, 189, 208, 244

Statues, marble, 95

Stays, 90, 131

Steerman, Miss, 136

Steptoe, Dr. George, 88, 110, 195, 246

Stethern, Hugh, 6

Steward, Mr., 99

Stewards, xvi, xxiii, xxix, 38, 86

Stewart, Anthony, 209

Stills, 54

Stockings, 69, 150, 156

Stocks, 216

Stockton, Julia, 157 Rachel, 98, 247

Stone, Aquia, 241

Stores and Storehouses, 55, 119, 244 of Robert Carter, xxviii, 81, 144, 191

"Stratford Hall," Westmoreland County, Lee home, xxxi, 145, 242, 244, 245 dancing school at, 50, 51, 190, 191

Strawberries, 110

Sukey (slave), 86, 184-185

Supper, at Nomini Hall, description of, 34

Surveying, xvii, 191, 199 books on, xviii _see also_ titles of catalogue in Appendix

_Susannah_ (ship), 122

_Swallow_ (ship), 106, 112

Swearing, in Maryland, 108

Swift, Jonathan, 171, 190

Swine pox, 138

Scythes, 133

Taliaferro, Polly, 136, 248 family, 248 pronunciation of name, 248

Tappahannock, 241 _see also_ Hobb's Hole

Tarts, 33

Tasker, Anne (Bladen), xxvii, 239 Benjamin, xxvii Frances Anne, _see_ Carter, Frances Anne (Tasker) family, social and economic position of, xxvii

Taverns, 18, 53, 96, 109 called ordinaries in Virginia, 117

Tayloe, Col. John, of "Mount Airy," xxxi, 24, 69, 77, 94, 102, 120, 142, 148, 152, 155, 201, 242, 245, 246, 247, 248 Elizabeth, 247 Kitty, 95, 121, 136, 152 Polly, 95, 121, 136, 152 Bob Carter admires, 121 Rebecca, _see_ Lee, Rebecca (Tayloe) Rebecca (Plater), 78, 121, 152, 153, 154, 246, 247 Sally, 136, 152 family, xxxi, 77 _see also_ Taylor

Taylor, Mr., 86, 111, 200 Mr. (overseer), 50, 62, 86, 91, 146, 185, 189, 244 Miss, 86

Tea, 33, 97, 107, 215 ban on drinking, 110 disturbances caused by duty on, 59, 209 repeal of duty on, 131

Telescopes, 117

Tenancy, xxviii, 92

Terraces, xx, 81, 237-238 _see also_ falling gardens

"The Cliffs," Richmond County, Fauntleroy home, 241, 243, 245

_The Spectator_, 4, 37 Priscilla Carter studies, 20

Theodolites, 187, 191, 196

Tholepins, 146

Thompson, Dr. Thomas, 51, 156, 205, 244

Thornton, Charlotte (Belson), 95, 148, 201, 246 Col. Presley, 246

Thunder and lightning, frighten Mrs. Carter, 79, 123, 144

Tibbs, Capt., 183

Ticks, 158, 169, 181

Tidewater Virginia, emigration from begins early, xiv England seeks to exploit products of, xiii "Golden Age," in, xiii great landowners dominate life in, xv methods of operating estates in, xv-xvi tobacco industry in, xiv

Tinkers, 185

Tobacco, 88, 117, 142, 144, 185, 200 shipments of, stopped, 113, 117 wasteful system of cultivation, xiv _see also_ Tobacco industry

Tobacco industry, adversely affected by various factors, xiv

Toddy, 29, 57, 90

Toll mills, 75

Tom (coachman), 55, 134

Tom (hostler), 91, 200

Toothache, 29, 84, 108, 185, 186

Tories, 191, 245

Towns, plans for building, 89 _see also_ Aquia, Colchester, Fredericksburg, Hobb's Hole, Leeds, Norfolk, Williamsburg

Trade, no social stigma attached to, xvi Carter engages in, 75

Travel, by water, xxiii, 31, 144-145, 192 overland, 144, 149 _see also_ Carriages, Chairs, Chariots, Coaches, Sedans

Trenton, N.J., 127

_Tristram Shandy_, 129

Trumpet Minuet, 30

Tryon, Gov. William, 64

"Tuckahoe," Goochland County, Randolph home, description of, 238-239

Tudor Rose (decorative motif), xxii

Turberville, Betty Tayloe (Corbin), 242 George, 84, 130 Mrs. George, 84, 90, 130 George Richard, 242 John, of "Hickory Hill," 47, 73, 88, 110, 137, 147, 202, 242 Letitia Corbin (Letty), 25, 31, 88, 89, 90, 125, 136, 157, 200, 202, 242 Martha (Corbin), 31, 88, 188, 200, 202, 242 family, xxxi, 158

Turpentine, 190

Tutors, xviii, xix, 3, 6-7, 93-94, 95, 109, 143, 201, 238, 243, 247-248 American-born, 29, 93-94, 112 at Bushfield, 41, 244 at Sabine Hall, xviii barred out of schoolroom, 34 conduct prescribed for, 159-168 Englishmen as, xix, 112 salaries and perquisites of, 3, 6-7 Scotchmen as, xix, 29, 41, 90, 93-94, 244 social position of, xix

Tyler's Ferry, 96, 110, 208, 247

Tyre, _Dictionary_, 25

Ucomico Church, _see_ Yeocomico Church

Ucomico River, _see_ Yeocomico River

Umbrellas, 144

_Universal Magazine_, quoted, 71-72, 73

Upper Marlborough, Md., 97, 209, 247

_Urania, or a choice collection of Psalm-Tunes, Anthems and Hymns_, 247

Valentines, 58, 62, 65, 245 for Priscilla Carter, 65, 230-233

Valley of Virginia, xxxii

Vice, erroneous impressions concerning prevalence in Virginia, 9, 46-47

Violins, 30, 57, 121, 207 _see also_ Fiddles

Virgil, 74, 82, 83, 128, 138, 152

Virginia, characteristic dress of women, 29 compared with New Jersey, 60-61, 100, 159-164, 167-168 false impression regarding ungodliness in, 9, 46-47 fasts in, 110, 111, 112 General Assembly of, 117 dissolved by Governor, 110, 112 General Court of, 26, 95, 199, 203 Governor of, dissolves Assembly, 110, 112 toasts to, 59, 64, 129 Governor's Council, xxix hospitality and politeness in, 29, 43, 90 Indian disturbances on frontier, 187 peculiarities of speech in, 177 political unrest, _see_ American Revolution Sabbath observance in, 73, 137, 167-168 social character of religious gatherings, 29, 162 _see also_ Piedmont Virginia, Tidewater Virginia, Valley of Virginia

_Virginia Gazette_, 64, 65, 67, 69, 79, 245, 247, 248

Vorhees, Mr., 98, 247

Waddell, Rev. James, 73, 245

Wade, Miss, 155

Wadman, Mr., 172

Waiting-men, 94, 96

Walker, Mr., 25, 28 Capt., 22, 28, 29, 32, 88, 172, 191, 202, 242

Wall, Mr., comedian, 98, 247 Dr. Llewellyn Lechmere, 247

Wallings, Mr., 17

Ward, Dr., 4, 14, 98, 100 Mrs., 99, 104 James, 106

Warden, Mr., 75, 88, 116, 172 John, tutor, 28, 243

Ware, "Aunt," 100 Rachel, 100

Warehouses, 89, 117 hinder shipping of tobacco, 117

Warsaw, Va., 241

Warwick, Md., 98, 210, 247

Washington, George, 238, 244 ideas on education, xvii Jenny, 51, 88, 123, 125, 135, 136, 148, 178, 196 Col. John Augustine, of "Bushfield," 51, 66, 83, 90, 137, 142, 145, 244, 245 Mrs. John Augustine, 51, 88, 202

Wash-houses, 81

Washer-women, 96, 207

Waste-gates, 75

Watch seals, 84, 209

Watches, 84

Watermelons, 151, 152, 157

_Water Parted from the Sea_ (song), 37, 132, 243

Watt, _Logick_, 194

Webster, Althea (Alhe), 106 Betsy, 106 Peletiah (Palatiah), letter to, 172-173 Ruth, 106, 107 letter to, 174-175

Weddings, 51

Wellford, Mrs. William Harrison, 237

West, Mr., 97

Westmoreland County, 135, 241, 242, 243, 244, 248

Westmoreland County Court, 87, 149, 181

Westmoreland Court House, Va., 96, 208, 247 tavern at, 110

Wet nurses, 39

Wheat, 75, 112, 114, 125 Carter purchases for mill, 190 exported to Philadelphia, 77

Wheatly, Phillis, 72, 245 poem by, quoted, 73

White Plains, battle at, xxxii

Wiggins, Dr., 7

Wildernesses, xx

_Will Wimple_, 58

Williams, John Rogers, edits Fithian manuscripts, xxxii, 239

Williamsburg, xxx, 26, 34, 40, 44, 69, 79, 95, 126, 134, 172, 198, 245, 247, 248 Carter home at, xxix, 79 library of Carter at, 119 organ at, 30, 51 public houses at, 65 Robert Carter visits, xxix, 200 _see also_ College of William and Mary

Willing, Mr., 94 Thomas, 246

Willis, Harry, xxx, 20, 48, 54, 55, 59, 60, 62, 63, 65, 70, 76, 82, 86, 88, 112, 116, 122, 123, 133-134, 142, 146, 147, 148, 150, 169, 172, 181, 182, 184, 186, 190, 199, 201, 202, 206, 216, 241 commences school, 20 letter to, 201-202

"Windsor," Westmoreland County, Steptoe home, 246

Wine, 29, 42, 57, 77, 97, 111, 138, 141, 158, 191

Wirt, William, 245

Witherspoon, Dr. John, 3, 6, 11, 46, 90, 93, 95, 106, 107, 112, 143, 163, 240 advises Fithian to accept position, 7, 9, 14 career and influence of, 240 letters to, 9-10

Wolfe, Gen. James, description of monument to, 71-72

Women, discussions regarding souls of, 82

Woodcutters, 74

Wormeley, Judith, _see_ Lee, Judith (Wormeley) Ralph, at Oriel College, Oxford University, xix

Worth, Mr., 211

Yeocomico Church (Ucomico Church), Cople Parish, Westmoreland County, 22, 88, 96, 114, 122, 145, 169, 179, 202, 242 choir in, 195 _see also_ Smith, Rev. Thomas

Yeocomico River, 31, 77, 89, 246 ships in, 76

"Yew Spring," Caroline County, Corbin home, 248

Yorick (horse), 24, 94

Zodiac, plantations named for signs of, xxviii

* * * * *

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