The Journals of
Elmira Blaikie
1870-1945
1941
Wednesday, January 1, 1941
– January First. New Year’s Day. Dark, with a few splatters of rain.
Harry came from Truro near dinner time. Don was with him. They had
dinner here; then Harry and Morris went to “The Gould Place” to see
whether they could get some rabbits. They took Harry’s car as far as A.
P. Fulton’s, then walked the rest of the way. Tom Fulton did not work at
the mill; he was at Mr. Margeson’s a short time: then at home. I went
out to Alex Fulton’s with Harry and Morris. As Harry and Don wishes to
be home for dinner (evening) they left early. Gerald Rutherford was
taken to the V. B. Hospital this week – Monday or Tuesday. Alda was in a
little while – she and Eldon are at Roy’s to tea. It is nice to see them
often – I mean all of the dear ones. May this year, so dark with war and
all its sadness, come go a glad & peaceful ending.
Thursday, January 2, 1941 – Not
a bad day. Cloudy & cool. Two of our friends were called away in the
early hours of the morning: Mr. S. A. Fulton (Bob as we called him).
Quite a long illness of cancer with some severe suffering, was his lot;
but he bore it uncomplainingly, tho he was in sore distress in the end.
He was 83 yrs., 10 mos. old. Leaves five daughters and one son, besides
his wife Emma (Harrison) Fulton. Then Mrs. Robinson Ellis (nee Flora
Jane MacKay) died this same morning, at her son-in-law, Graham Fulton’s,
Upper Stewiacke Village. Her home was in Eastville. She had anemia for
some years, and came to her daughter’s, Mrs. S. Graham Fulton’s, Nov. 24th,
1940. She was somewhat easier after a few weeks and was able to be up
and sit in a chair, though not able to walk. She died very suddenly.
Mrs. Ellis was a very bright and cheery woman; though she had some
thorny paths in life. She was sixty six years old. I was in Mrs.
Margeson’s this a.m. Morris and Tom went to Badminton.
Friday, January 3, 1941 – A
lovely, mild wintry day. Was in Mrs. Margeson’s twice. Mr. Margeson
seems a little better. Mrs. Alex Fulton was in Mrs. Margeson’s the
second time I was in, and we thought she & I would go to see Florence
Fulton, Mrs. S. Graham Fulton, whose mother has just passed away. We
went to the house, but she had gone to her old home in Eastville, wither
the undertaker had taken the remains. So we went to call at Mrs. Martin
S. Fulton’s; were there a little while, and then went home, Mrs. Alex to
her home and I to mine. Rev. J. M. Sproule and Mrs. Sproule had tea with
us: also little Eric, their youngest child. They left early as there was
choir practice tonight.
Saturday, January 4, 1941 –
Chilly wind, with signs of a storm brewing: in the late afternoon it
began, and it is a very rough evening – blowing and drifting the snow
about. Mr. S. A. Fulton’s funeral was held at his late home this
afternoon at 2 o’clock. It was a large funeral considering the day. I
was not present. Glenn, Alice and Morris were there from here, and
Shirley came from the Post Office home for the weekend. Tom Fulton was
to Mr. Margeson’s in the p.m. too He did not go home tonight as it was
so stormy. Alice was at her mothers to tea.
Sunday, January 5, 1941 –
Sabbath. Cold wind, and drifting snow; not so rough as it was in the
night though. We were at church except Glenn and the little ones, Freda
and Leslie. Rev. J. M. Sproule preached from rev. 3.8. I have set before
thee an open door, and no man can shut The Church of the open door, was
the subject. Morris went to South Branch with the minister; is not home
yet. Shirley and Nina went to Y. P. S. C. E. They, the Society, and
anyone who wished to go, were invited to the manse after the evening
meeting, for a social time. We had a nice day, saddened though it was,
by thoughts of our two departed friends. Mrs. Ellis was laid to rest in
her quiet grave, in the Eastville Cemetery. She will be with us no more
on this earth, but we hope to meet her On Beyond. Mr. Fulton will be
remembered by his quiet, retiring ways; and also for his jokes and love
of fun. He was fond of music, and one of my memories of him will be his
quiet singing of the old psalms and hymns, as he rested on the couch in
the evening, in the house beside us, when he and Mrs. Fulton lived
there, a good many years ago.
They
never quite leave us, those friends who have passed,
Through the gateway of death, to the mansions Above:
A thousand sweet memories are holding them fast
To the places they blest with their presence and love.
When sitting alone, or as oft in the throng,
When evil allures us, or sin draweth nigh
A voice whispers softly, “Nay do not do wrong,”
and we feel that our weakness is pitied on high.
The works they left, and the books they read,
speak mutely but still with an eloquence rare;
The songs that they sung, and the dear words they said,
Still quiver and sigh of the desolate air.
And now we must rest, in the love and the faith
Of Him who has called them to Heaven Above;
They passed to their rest at the touching of death,
they live like ourselves, in His infinite love.
Monday, January 6, 1941 – Cold,
with wind, and some sunshine. G. R. Deyarmond and Glenn were hauling
logs. School began again today. Nina, Freda and Leslie all went. Alice
washed as usual, got her clothes ironed – most of them. I did not iron
mine. Was in Mrs. Margeson’s a little while; did not see him, but he
seems better. Glenn and Alice are away – to Mrs. Hamilton’s I guess. The
“Boys”, Tom and Morris, are at Badminton tonight.
Tuesday, January 7, 1941 – A
fine sunny day. Cold wind: some frost. Was in Mr. Margeson’s; he was on
the sofa, and sat up some of the time. Seems quite a lot improved in
health. Was in Edwin’s and Olive’s house. Olive was with me; we were all
through it. It will be nice when finished. I like the rooms; they are
well lighted; and the fire place is nice. Tom, and Morris were in a
while tonight – in with me, and we were talking of things that are worth
while. Hazel Deyarmond went to Aberdeen Hospital, New Glasgow, to begin
her probationary period of training as a nurse. Her mother accompanied
her and intended coming back tonight. Her father drove them to Truro in
a car; from whence they went to New Glasgow in the bus. We hope for
Hazel’s success in her chosen profession.
Wednesday, January 8, 1941 – A
cold morn, 13° below zero. Pretty fine day. Wind cold. Was in Roy’s and
Mr. Margeson’s this p.m. I knitted and write this a.m. There is a
meeting of the overseers of the poor, at Henry Cox’s tonight. Glen will
attend (D. V.)
Thursday, January 9, 1941 – A
nice fine day, 13° this morn. I knitted a mitten this a.m. – all except
a few rows. Went to W. M. S. at the manse; it was a nice meeting. A life
membership certificate was presented to Mrs. Abram Bentley, Otter Brook.
We had a nice lunch, provided by the officers of the W. M. S. Then the
Ladies’ Aid was held at Mrs. J. D. Cox’s, to whose home we went
immediately after the meeting. It was a nice pleasant gathering. Roy
took us to W. M. S., in Edwin’s car: George and Miss E. Jenks came for
us.
Friday, January 10, 1941 – Not
very cold; cloudy & looking like a storm; a few flakes of snow fell once
in a while. Was in Mr. Margeson’s a little while; Nina was over. I
mended some of my clothes & knitted in the p.m. Nothing I know of to
write about.
Saturday, January 11, 1941 –
Not much cold; turned soft and rained this afternoon. There was sleet
tonight. Glenn and the girls, Shirley, Nina & Ruth went with Wilmer,
over to Dean: Wilmer wanted to see a man. Morris was in to see Mr. &
Mrs. Margeson tonight, and then went to the Manse. He and Tom went to
the village together. I guess I will read “Seasoned Timber,” (by Dorothy
Canfield) a little while. This is Mrs. Edson’s birthday.
Sunday, January 12, 1941 –
Rainy. Showers all day off & on. Froze a little in the night. We were
all at church. There were 65 people at church altogether. Mr. Sproule’s
sermon was good. The Scripture reading was from Acts of the Apostles 1:
(blank) to the end of the chapter. The first congregational meeting of
which we read; its purpose was to elect or choose a disciple to take the
place of Judas. Mathias was chosen. There was no Y. P. S. C. E. Some
people went.
Monday, January 13, 1941 –
Windy, with a little snow falling all day. Cold & windy tonight. Roy
took the big saw to Stewiacke to get Mr. Roy Weaver to hammer it. Roy
Blaikie was not home before dark. Was in to Mr. Margeson’s a little
while.
Tuesday, January 14, 1941 –
Very cold. It was 3° below zero this a.m., and a high wind; and
continued cold all day. The mill was idle; Glenn went to Truro this p.m.
Tom was over to Mr. Margeson’s this p.m. It is nice and warm here, now.
9 o’clock p.m.
Wednesday, January 15, 1941 – A
fine, cold day. 5° below zero this morning, with a high, piercing wind
blowing. The mill did not run today. I sewed a little and looked over
some post cards, and read some. Tom was out to his home this p.m. Morris
was at Mr. Margeson’s a little while.
Thursday, January 16 – A fine
day; 8° below zero this a.m., but the air got warmer, and was a nice
day. I sewed, and knitted, and was in Mr. Margeson’s this p.m. They are
all at the Congregational Meeting except Nina, the children and myself.
Yesterday, Mr. & Mrs. Stewart Hickman had a head on collision, was a Mr.
(blank) Sutherland of Brookfield. She, Mrs. Hickman, was taken to C. C.
Hospital.
Friday, January 17, 1941 – It
snowed, and some hail or sleet fell; the sledding is very good. I ironed
and sewed and did some knitting. Was in Roy’s a little while: the
preparatory service tonight was very lovely. Singing of the hymns, and
the sermon, on the text, “If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do
them.” The service was all reverent, and seemed to have a gentle kindly
influence on us all. The confession of sin, reading the 51st
Psalm from the 10th verse I think it was, and a prayer of
acknowledgement of sins. Then the sermon, showing that only in the doing
of the things, which we know to be right, can we find happiness and
peace: Jesus girded himself with a towel, and washed the disciples’
feet, thus showing them the humble, and kindly was of helping one
another (sic). May we come to live these peaceful and happy ways more
and more.
Saturday, January 18, 1941 –
The sleet lays on the ground, and the sledding is good. It snowed this
evening. Glenn, and G. R. Deyarmond, were hauling logs. I was at Mr.
Margeson’s this p.m. He has improved in health; is able to do a few
chores now. Freda and Leslie were at the manse to tea. Nina was at Mrs.
Barrett’s to tea. So we just had a small crowd. I sewed and knitted
today.
Sunday, January 19, 1941 –
Sabbath. Cloudy, and snowy, but not cold today. We had a wonderful
Sacramental service today. Mr. Sproule read, “The walk to Emmaus” from a
part of the twenty-fourth chapter of Luke. I think the text was “and how
he was known to them in breaking of bread.” It set forth the Christian
life, as Jesus wishes us to live it. And it gave us joy in our hearts to
know the nearness of God, and the comfort of belief in Him. We were
quiet – singing – and writing in the afternoon. Morris and Nina &
Shirley are at Y. P. S. C. E. Shirley will return to the P. O.
afterwards.
Monday, January 20, 1941 – Not
very fine, though there was a little drying in the clothes which were
washed. We brought them in off the clothes line in the p.m. It snowed a
bit most of the afternoon; the wind is blowing tonight. Tom was at
Badminton, but Morris did not go. I sewed and knitted today. We have got
our third barrel of apples; it is so nice to be having them in the
winter. Sent a letter to F. J. B.
Tuesday, January 21, 1941 – It
was appointed to have a speaker address the Y. L. C. on the Women’s
Institutes. The meeting was to be in the Agricola Hall; but owing to bad
roads &c the speaker did not arrive, so the meeting was left to a more
favorable occasion: but the Club had their tea in the hall. I guess they
enjoyed themselves. Alice went. Morris was at the Manse this evening.
Doctor J. B. Reid’s (Truro) father, Daniel Reid, died Jan. 19.
Wednesday, January 22, 1941 – A
lovely fine day. I sewed, and wrote a letter this a.m. In the p.m. Alice
went (walked) to Mrs. J. W. Benvie’s. Little Dickie Cox was here playing
with Leslie, and Freda Mary after she came from school. Eldon Brenton
took the pigs, one from each place, to butcher them I presume.
Thursday, January 23, 1941 –
Some snow fell last night; but the weather was warm and moist today. I
was at Mrs. Margeson’s a while this afternoon. Was sewing and knitting.
Friday, January 24, 1941 – A
cold, windy, sunshiny day. I do not (know) much that went on, was
knitting and sewing, and looking over the W. M. S. lesson in the study
book a little while. Sent some mitts to F. J. B. Had a letter from Mrs.
Annie Miller; she is a dear old lady; lying in bed from day to day, and
very patient. Miss Tupper has lost the use of her hands. It is Miss
Tupper’s place, and Rilla Laffin takes care of them. She is kind and
attentive to them.
Saturday, January 25, 1941 –
Rather soft; a little snow in the air. I finished my third pair of Red
Cross socks since Dec. 5th, 1940. Was just about the house –
not at Roy’s or Mr. Margeson’s. Had a letter from E. M. B. today.
Shirley home early in the p.m. Mr. & Mrs. Alvin Ellis had a son born
today.
Sunday, January 26, 1941 – A
lovely fine day; but cold wind. Was at church this a.m.; we did not take
the car as the walking was not bad, and day fine. The sermon was good –
a person should live, not all for what one gets out of the church life,
but for what one puts into it as well. The offering piece was, “O touch
the hem of His garment.” In the p.m. I was in Mr. Margeson’s and at
Roy’s at little while. The young folks are at Y. P. S. C. E. Joyce
Deyarmond was here to tea. There were 105 at church.
Monday, January 27, 1941 – A
fine, cold day; 8° below zero this a.m. Alice washed, the clothes dried,
and most of them are ironed. I guess they are having a feed on at
Badminton tonight. Morris and Tom went. Arthur Kennedy was on the truck
today. Glenn is badly crippled with rheumatism.
Tuesday, January 28, 1941 – A
cold morning, but got warmer through the day; did not thaw. Glenn was
not able to go on the truck today. His back is very sore, but Dr. thinks
perhaps a week’s rest in bed with hot water bottle & things around him,
will work off the sciatica; a form of rheumatism. I was to see the
Margesons this p.m. Shirley expects to be home soon. Wrote to E. M.
Boomer and Flo. Fields tonight.
Wednesday, January 29, 1941 – A
stormy, snowy day. I sew at the crazy patch-work quilt most of the day.
Glenn did not work; he said the Dr. told him that the treatment written
in yesterday’s lines would be the best for him; but in his
circumstances, did not tell him to do it. I guess he thinks he will try
some – a few day’s – rest, perhaps, and then go on the truck again. Nina
was not well today, and did not go to school; Freda and Leslie went. I
sent letters to E. M. B. and Flo. Fields.
Thursday, January 30, 1941 –
Snowed some, quite a lot of the time today. Wind was blowing some
tonight too. There wasn’t much to write about; Arthur Kennedy was on the
truck with G. R. Deyarmond: Glenn is a little better. He stayed in bed
part of the day. “The boys”, Tom and Morris, did not attend Badminton
tonight, Morris was in to see Mr. & Mrs. Margeson.
Friday, January 31, 1941 –
Cloudy and mild with some snow flakes falling. Arthur and George Robert,
got their dinner early today. I finished or stopped working at the crazy
quilt this p.m. Was in Roy’s a little while this afternoon; got yarn for
a fourth pair of socks since Dec. began. Glenn has had a severe time
getting his car stuck in getting up our lane; but they got it out at
last. Had a letter from F. J. B.
Saturday, February 1, 1941 –
Mild, with clouds & sunshine. Shirley came home last night. She is
through at J. D. Cox’s now. Mrs. Alex Fulton was calling on the Blaikies
this afternoon. We always enjoy having her. Glenn and Alice were at the
store tonight. Bernard and George Sproule were here to tea with Leslie;
they are little boys – nice too. Arthur Kennedy was on the truck today.
Had a letter from sister Nettie, and a picture of the bride and groom,
Mr. and Mrs. Leslie C. Kruger, nee Irene Abrahamson, Nettie & Frank’s
eldest girl.
Sunday, February 2, 1941 –
Sabbath. A lovely fine day. Quite mild, too. We all went to church this
morning. Tom went out home, and (did) the chores for Putnam (his
brother) so Put could go to church. Rev. Sproule preached from Luke 8th
chapter; the text was the last part of the 40th verse. “The
people gladly received Him; for they were all waiting for Him.” He read
the scripture, and the choir sang hymns. Mr. Sproule read portions of
the scripture relating to them. The reading was from the eighth chapter
of Luke. The sermon was very earnest, and helpful, if I could only
remember it. We should be waiting for Jesus to be in our lives, at all
times. The singing was nice. I was to see the Margesons in the p.m. They
are better. Shirley, Nina and Ruby Chase were at Mrs. Barrett’s to tea.
They and Amy and Violet Barrett and Margaret Kennedy came here a little
while before the Y.P.’s meeting: then went there; Morris went later. All
are to go to the manse for a sing-song after the meeting. This was
Flossie’s birthday; she is 46 years old. Alda and Eldon were at Roy’s to
tea. Mr. & Mrs. Lester Deyarmond have a son born Feb. 2nd.
Monday, February 3, 1941 –
Snowy, but not drifting much. The snow plow was on the road. Glenn has
not gone to work today, as his back is sore yet. It hope it gets away
soon. Arthur Kennedy was here this forenoon; but they did not work in
the p.m.; neither in the mill or hauling logs. I did some cutting
patchwork, knitting &c. Alice washed the clothes but did not hang them
on the line; it was too snowy.
Tuesday, February 4, 1941 – A
snowy, blustery day. Cold tonight. They made one trip to Brookfield, and
Hazel Deyarmond came back with them; she cannot train as a nurse on
account of eczema in her hands. G. R. Deyarmond has cracked, or broken,
two of his ribs, and cannot be on the truck for a while. Dr. MacLeod
strapped him up. Muir MacCabe and Sidney Cox are here tonight – playing
cards. Miss Mary E. Douglas has to have an operation for appendicitis,
and must leave the school here for a time. She expects to go to Truro
Hospital (C. C. H.) Friday. They are practicing an entertainment for a
basket social, to be held Friday night.
Wednesday, February 5, 1941 – A
snowy, drifting day. Men of the section shoveled and tried to break out
the roads – there was a snow plow on too. But the wind kept the snow
filling up the track; it is now snowing tonight. We heard of no mail
coming from Brookfield: the mill did not run. I put in (Alice did most
of it) a quilt, a crazy quilt today.
Thursday, February 6, 1941 – A
fine day; the roads were blocked with snow this a.m., and men and
horses, snow ploughs and shovels, were getting them broken out so that
people could travel. The mail got from Brookfield. I set a letter to W.
F. B. and Mrs. Allan MacLeod, and valentines to Cleo, Aileen & Darl, and
received a letter from Aunt Jessie Cooke, Halifax. Mrs. Stewart Hickman
had “Ladies’ Aid” today. I did not go – Edna and Mrs. Alex Fulton walked
to it.
Friday, February 7, 1941 – A
lot of now; but the roads are passable, as a lot of work has been done
on them; Mrs. Ervin Graham was sent to the C. C. Hospital at Truro this
afternoon. They brought her in a sleigh to this village (from Burnside)
and Roy, Ervin and George took her to the hospital. The basket social
was held in the Hall this evening: all the family attended, except me.
The entertainment was very good, and $62.25 (?) was the proceeds from
the sale of the baskets. Mrs. Lucy Tupper died this morning. Miss Mary
Douglas went to Truro, to enter C. C. Hospital today or tomorrow.
Saturday, February 8, 1941 – A
heavy rain fell this a.m. making the snow very watery, and getting about
bad: the funeral of the late Lucy Tupper was to have been held this p.m.
at two o’clock; but on account of the state of the roads and weather it
was postponed until tomorrow p.m. at the same hour. The mill cannot
operate; but there has been lots of work. I have been quilting; and
knitting a little. Had letters from Aunt Jessie Cooke, Halifax; and
Vivian Boomer today, & Elmer Jacobsen, yesterday.
Sunday, February 9, 1941 –
Sabbath. Cloudy, but not stormy. It was such bad walking that I did not
go to church. The car could not go either. The others all went; Mrs.
Alex Fulton, Mrs. W. D. Kennedy, and Miss Viola Dean were here to
dinner. Mrs. Fulton and Mrs. Kennedy went to the funeral of Miss Tupper
in the p.m. at two o’clock. Alice, Glenn and Morris also went. Morris
and Shirley and Nina went to the evening meeting in the hall. Mr. and
Mrs. Donald Crockett brought Muriel Fulton home from Halifax, where she
was working and had taken rheumatic fever and been quite ill. Their car
got stuck on the road in front of our house, and had to be pulled out by
a truck.
Monday, February 10, 1941 – A
fine cold day. Clothes dried. I quilted. Glenn & Morris took lumber to
Brookfield. G. R. Deyarmond broke or cracked two ribs and is unable to
work. The young fry are at Badminton. Sent letters to Mrs. A. M., P. R.
G. and J. Collings. The teacher who is the substitute for Miss Douglas
while she is recovering from her operation came today: she is Miss Helen
Grue of Bass River, Col. Co.
Tuesday, February 11, 1941 – A
fine bright day. Cold though. The new teacher, Miss Grue, began school
today. Glenn and Morris took three truck loads of lumber to Brookfield
and loaded it on a car. They are not back yet. Alice went to see her
mother today to spend the day, and will probably return with Glenn and
Morris when they come from Brookfield. Tom Fulton will be at work again
tomorrow; he has come from his home tonight.
Wednesday, February 12, 1941 –
Another bright, sunny day. Arthur Kennedy went to Brookfield with Glenn
on the truck today. I finished quilting the quilt today. Alice and
Shirley went to the Evening Auxiliary at J. D. Cox’s or rather Mrs. Ross
Johnson’s tonight. Had letters from Mrs. S. A. Fulton & Mrs. Girdwood.
Thursday, February 13, 1941 – A
nice sunny day. Was at Roy’s this a.m. Olive is spending a week at her
father’s in Musquodoboit. In the p.m. Roy took Edna and me, and Mrs.
Alex Fulton, who had walked in from her home, to the W. M. S. meeting at
Mrs. W. D. Kennedy’s. We had a good meeting. Mrs. Hamilton, Mrs. Sproule,
Mrs. Roy Blaikie, Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond, Mrs. Alex Fulton & myself were
present. When Roy let us ou of the car, on coming home, Mrs. Fulton and
I went to see Mrs. Margeson a little while. The young folks are at
Badminton & skating tonight. Had a letter from Mrs. Annie Miller today.
Friday, February 14, 1941 –
Rather cloudy; not very cold. I sewed and knitted a little today. Alice
hopes to get her quilt out tomorrow. Miss Grue went away today. She has
a civil service job in Halifax. Miss Coady, nee Jessie Chaplin, Musq.,
is expected to come to teach on Monday. Shirley and Morris did not go to
choir practice tonight. Wrote to E. M. B.
Saturday, February 15, 1941 –
Cloudy – a little misty this a.m. It was mild and thawing some. Had a
letter from E. M. B. today. Arthur and Glenn were hauling lumber today.
I bound the edges of the quilt. I finished quilting on Wednesday, or
rather Thursday morning.
Sunday, February 16, 1941 –
Sabbath. Cloudy, with a little snow falling. All of us were at church.
Mr. Sproule’s sermon was on the theme – The salt of the earth – what it
is, and how it is shown in lives, and how it can be lived: by living
with Jesus as our patter. Morris was at Mr. Sproule’s to tea. He is fond
of going there; and he liked to go to Mr. Girdwood’s when they were at
the manse. Jean was here in the p.m. Shirley & Nina & Morris are at Y.
P. S. C. E. tonight.
Monday, February 17, 1941 –
Cold wind, a little snow fell. Alice washed; the clothes dried pretty
well. I was in Roy’s a while in the p.m. Olive spent most of last week
with her mother. It would be nice for them to be together. Tom and Nina
were at Badminton, and Tom was at the manse afterwards.
Tuesday, February 18, 1941 –
Cloudy, some wind too. Glenn has some blood poison in his hand. Roy, and
Arthur Kennedy trucked. Sent letter to E. M. W. and Eva Steel today. Was
mending and knitting most of the time.
Wednesday, February 19, 1941 –
Snowing and drifting all day; not a very high wind though. Glenn and
Arthur Kennedy were trucking to Brookfield today. Went two trips. Alice
was at Y. L. Club, where they quilted a quilt; she was not home at 8
o’clock. George Blaikie was sick last night and today. I think it was
bladder trouble, the Dr. said. I guess Mr. Beveridge Graham and Mr.
Ervin Graham went to Truro to bring Mrs. Ervin Graham from the C. C.
Hospital, where she has been for 10 or 12 days.
Thursday, February 20, 1941 –
Snowed and drifted all day. Not a very violent storm, but steady. Was
upstairs most of the day – patching and knitting. Sent a letter to F. J.
B. and had a valentine, a little hankie, & Leslie and Freda had a
valentines too, from her. Tom has gone to Badminton. Glenn did not go to
Brookfield today. Audrey Dean, who stays at Dr. MacLeod’s, was here to
tea. Ruth was in a little while.
Friday, February 21, 1941 –
Rather a nice day. Some sunshine, a few flakes of snow fell. I was in
Roy’s a little while. Finished a pair of Red Cross socks. Morris and the
girls are at the manse, practicing singing for Sabbath. This was my
sister’s birthday; had a little talk over the phone.
“When
the pines forget to whisper,
When the winds forget to blow,
When the dear old fashioned greeting
Speeds no more across the snow,
And when memories cease thronging,
And old days come not again,
Then old friends may be forgotten,
And old ties – but not til then.
(from a Christmas card)
Saturday, February 22, 1941 – A
nice day; foggy in the a.m. Was upstairs most of the time today. Dr. R.
H. MacLeod was to see George, and also called to see me. Geo. is better
and is out again. I am to resume taking digitalis again – as soon as the
Doctor sends it to me: but I am quite well except little qualms now and
then. I wrote to Bertha W. Glenn and Alice were at the store tonight.
The Dr. examined Glenn too: he is pretty well.
Sunday, February 23, 1941 –
Sabbath. Not a cold day. Quite moderate. A little snow falling tonight.
We were all at church: the sermon was on the Beatitudes. It was good, as
Mr. Sproule’s sermons always are. He is an earnest preacher. There is
service in Mr. Ralph Graham’s camp tonight, in place of Y. P. S. – 104
people were at church this a.m.
Monday, February 24, 1941 –
Quite a nice day. Alice and Glenn were to Truro today, so the washing
was not done. Mr. Psalter is putting the putty coat on Edwin’s house.
Alice was telling us that she and Edna were in the house to see it: it
is a nice house. They all went to Badminton. I was with the children
until they, Shirley, Nina, Tom & Morris, came home.
Tuesday, February 25, 1941 –
Quite a nice, fine day. Alice got her wash out, and dried and ironed.
Was in to see Mrs. Margeson this p.m. Sent a letter to Fern and E. M. B.
Glenn did not go to Brookfield. He and Tom are at W. D. Kenney’s
tonight.
Wednesday, February 26, 1941 –
Another nice day. We have fine weather. I knitted this forenoon; and in
the p.m. George took me to Ladies’ Aid at Mrs. Grant Cox’s. Only Mrs.
Alex Fulton, Mrs. Charlie Peppard, Mrs. A. K. Fulton and I besides Mary
(Mrs. Cox) herself, were present. We had a nice time – just a cozy
little visit. George and Muir Patterson came for us – Mrs. Alex and I.
Glenn, and G. R. Deyarmond, went to Brookfield three trips today.
Thursday, February 27, 1941 –
It snowed nearly all day, but did not drift much. They hauled lumber to
Brookfield to load on cars. There was “Ladies’ Aid” at Graham Fulton’s;
but tho’ Mrs. Fulton invited me, I did not go, as the walking is not
very good for an elderly person. I mended and knitted. The young people
are at Badminton tonight. Mr. Sproule’s father is dead, in a hospital in
Fredericton.
Friday, February 28, 1941 – A
nice day. It was the Annual Prayer Day, when groups of women all over
the world, had gathered together, in their places of meeting to pray to
God for the things which the people all over the world need so much.
These meetings were begun in Canada Jan. 9, 1920, and have spread over
many countries since that time. Our meeting was held at the manse. Our
minister, Rev. J. M. Sproule, has gone to his father’s funeral, so was
not present at our meeting.
Saturday, March 1, 1941 – Quite
a nice day but cold wind. Was in Roy’s a little while this a.m. Alice
went to her mother’s this p.m. Glenn has gone for her, and to be at the
store now – 9.30. There is not much that I know to write.
Sunday, March 2, 1941 –
Sabbath. Cloudy, with slight snow flurries. No church service, as Mr.
Sproule was away to attend his father’s funeral. There is Y. P. S.
tonight. Tom and Morris are there, and the society is to go to the manse
after the meeting & sing & (blank). I was in Mr. Margeson’s this p.m. a
while. Roy was up this evening.
Monday, March 3, 1941 –
Somewhat windy, with a few flakes of snow sometimes. Clothes dried very
well. Glenn and G. R. were to Brookfield twice. I was in Roy’s a little
while this p.m. Buddy was executed this afternoon; shot at sunset, or a
short time before. He had bitten Mrs. Martin Fulton on Saturday, and it
was thought best to kill him. H. T. Fulton is not very well.
Tuesday, March 4, 1941 – A mild
day, with a little snow, and in the p.m. a slight sprinkling or two or
rain. Alice was cleaning and cooking for Ladies’ Aid, which we hope to
have on the morrow. I was at Roy’s this a.m. a little while Letters
from E. S. G and E. E. B. Mrs. Sproule went to Truro to meet Mr.
Sproule on his way from Fredericton, N. B.
Wednesday, March 5, 1941 – A
nice find day with a cold wind. Was in Mrs. Margeson’s a minute or two
this a.m. We had Ladies’ Aid this afternoon; these women were present,
viz, Mrs. J. D. Cox, Mrs. H. Coady, Mrs. Graham Cox, Miss Jennie Miller,
Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond, Mrs. (Rev.) J. M. Sproule, Mrs. Roy Blaikie; Mrs.
Alex, Mrs. S. Graham & Mrs. Martin Fulton, and little Hughie Fulton,
Mrs. Graham Fulton’s baby. Shirley when to A. P. (Put) Fulton’s to help
them, tonight. Alice went to Evening Auxiliary. Had letters from E. A.
Cox & E. M. B.
Thursday, March 6, 1941 – Not a
bad day. Cold this a.m., 4° or 5°. Shirley was to Badminton, and Glenn
took her out to A. P. Fulton’s afterward. Letter from F. J. B. Mar. 7.
Friday, March 7, 1941 – A nice
fine day – cold wind, 10° below this a.m. I knitted and read this a.m.
Mrs. A. P. Fulton called for Alice on their way to the hall, where the
MacInnes (Missionary) Evening Auxiliary was quilting a quilt. They had
supper at the hall. While they were there, Mrs. (Dr.) R. H. MacLeod &
baby Jimmie & Mrs. Clyde B. Reynolds, called to see us. We enjoyed the
call. I do not know of anything else happening.
Saturday, March 8, 1941 – Cold
this morn., 8° below. Was in Mr. Margeson’s this p.m. Also in Roy’s.
They are all going to the village. Shirley is home. Wrote to F. J. B.
Sunday, March 9, 1941 –
Sabbath. It was stormy and pretty windy in the night, but not so bad
today: though, cloudy. Owing to the storm there were but thirty-eight at
church. There was Y. P. S. C. E. in the evening. Shirley went to Put
Fulton’s; her father walked with her, and Tom came back with him after.
Monday, March 10, 1941 – Snowy
this a.m., cloudy through the day. Alice washed but did not put all the
clothes on the line. Lloyd Anthony was hauling logs to the mill here.
The men did not work in the p.m., except Roy and Morris. Glenn & G. R.
took lumber to Brookfield.
Tuesday, March 11, 1941 –
Bright and fine. Wind a little cold. We got the clothes dried & ironed.
I just knit and sewed, and did some ironing and read. Robert and Paul
Sproule were here this p.m. Sent my dress to Eaton’s to be exchanged.
Wednesday, March 12, 1941 – A
very stormy day: drifting snow, blowing. G. R. and Glenn took a load of
lunber to Brookfield this a.m. but they did not go in the p.m. I knitted
and sewed. Tom Fulton went home with A. P. (Put) Fulton when Put came
for the scholars from school. Glenn was in Mr. Margeson’s.
Thursday, March 13, 1941 – Cold
this a.m. but a sunshiny day. After we went to bed last night, a
telephone came asking some people to go to break out roads to get Mr.
Andrew Dean to Colchester Hospital, Truro, to have his appendix removed.
Mr. Chester Hamilton of Musquodoboit was taking Mr. Dean to the
hospital. George, Roy, Glenn nd Morris and Sid Cox went from these two
places, and shoveled snow etc. from shortly after 10 o’clock to 4.30 or
5 in the morning, coming from Halfway Brook at that time. They were
sleepy today. The mill was not running. Tom Fulton was home. Club at
Mrs. G. R. D.’s.
Friday, March 14, 1941 – A
bright and sunny day. The W. M. S. met at Mrs. W. D. Kennedy’s this p.m.
Only four members present. Mrs. Alex Fulton, Mrs. Roy Blaikie, Mrs. W.
D. Kennedy and myself. Roy took and brought us home. Sent a letter to E.
M. B. today. Had a letter from sister Nettle Abrahamson, and one from
Mrs. Annie Miller. Morris was to choir practice tonight. Glenn and Tom
Fulton were at W. D. Kennedy’s to spend the evening.
Saturday, March 15, 1941 –
Another bright, fine, warmish day. Freda was to see Madeline and Barbara
Fulton today: and Leslie was to the manse a while in the p.m. Amy
Barrett was here to tea; also Ruth Blaikie and Joyce Deyarmond. Alice
was to see her mother a little while in the p.m., and had tea with them.
Glenn and G. R. Deyarmond were to Truro to bring out a casket for the
late Mrs. G. Bradford Hamilton, who passed away this morning, at his
home in Burnside. Mrs. George Bentley was here a while this evening.
Sunday, March 16, 1941 –
Sabbath. A nice, sunny day; all at church except Glenn who went and came
home for some reason – a dog who was troublesome or something I guess.
Lloyd Fleming and Don Blaikie brought Mary Douglas from Truro; she
intends to teach tomorrow; she came to J. D. Cox’s, her boarding place.
Alda and Eldon were there too – at Roy’s I mean. Edna and Alda were up
in the evening a while. Morris, Shirley & Nina were at Y. P. S. C. E.
Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond & girls called here. Glenn & Shirley to Mrs. P.
Fulton’s. I think the sermon preached by Mr. Sproule was from the text,
“What think ye (of Christ).” The sermons are in preparation for the
Sacrament Sabath – Apr. 13th – Easter Day. Alice & Ethel
called on Mrs. Margeson. Roy was in in the p.m.
Monday, March 17, 1941 – Quite
fine, but hail and rain tonight. Alice washed and the clothes dried
well. Roy and Edna &c went to Truro this p.m. Had a letter from E. M.
Woodsworth. Sent one to N. A. Bob & Glenn took two loads to Brookfield.
J. W. Benvie was in, seeing about fixing the sink and making repairs
around it. Thee is a St. Patrick’s party at the hall tonight. Tom & Nina
are there.
Tuesday, March 18, 1941 –
Squalls and sunshine. Rather cold. Nothing much going on as far as I
know. Nina told me about the social entertainment last night. Very quiet
this evening. Had a letter from Mrs. R. Barrett.
Wednesday, March 19, 1941 –
Cloudy; dark. Glenn and G. R. Deyarmond went to Brookfield twice. I do
not know anything else that happened – only they are having a meeting in
the hall, about war savings, tonight.
Thursday, March 20, 1941 – A
nice fine day; cold, 20° below zero this morning; wind cold all day.
They went their two trips to Brookfield. W. Grant Graham was here to
dinner. I was in Roy’s a while this p.m. Sent a letter to F. J. B.
Shirley was to Badminton; Glenn took her back to A. P. Fulton’s. I did
not see her. Had a letter from Flora Goodwin today. Nina & Tom Fulton
were at Badminton; Morris not there.
Friday, March 21, 1941 – A fine
day; a squall or two, short tho’. Glenn and G. R. Deyarmond took a load
of lumber to Brookfield, and then went to Truro to get the truck
greased. In the p.m. Mrs. Alex Fulton and I went to Mrs. Martin
Fulton’s, spent the p.m. and remained to tea. We had a nice time; and
Eva (Mrs. Donald Crockett) was home helping her mother a little while;
so we saw her too. Mr. Robert A. Cox died in the hospital last night (at
Truro). Mr. Hugh Johnson is seriously ill; he is also in the hospital.
Sent a letter to C. B. J., Peachland, B. C.
Saturday, March 22, 1941 –
Squally and windy. Mr. Robert Cox was laid to rest this afternoon, in
Riverside Cemetery. The funeral was held in the church here (Upper
Stewiacke). The sermon was preached by Rev. J. M. Sproule. The hymns
sung were Abide with Me, Unto the Hills and Sun of My Soul. Nearly all
the choir (nearly) was present. Funeral quite large. The mill did not
run after dinner. Pall bearers W. P. Miller, Phillip Redden, Graham
Fulton, Almon Miller, Roy & Glenn Blaikie. Alice and Glenn are at the
store.
Sunday, March 23, 1941 –
Sabbath. Quite a nice day, not very cold. All the family were at church
except myself. Alice walked down to see her mother this p.m. Mrs.
Hamilton is not very well. She is 75 years old. Glenn took Shirley to A.
P. Fulton’s tonight. Edwin went to Musquodoboit to bring Olive home this
p.m. She has been with her mother a week. Morris and the girls were at
Y. P. S. C. E. tonight. Roy was up to see me a short time. I like to see
him. Thelma and Ruth were here in the p.m. Mr. Don Crockett & Muriel
Fulton came from Halifax to take Mrs. Crockett back from her father’s
(Mrs. S. Fulton’s). She has been visiting at her old home a week.
Monday, March 24, 1941 – A
beautiful fine day for drying clothes. We got the ironing done, too. I
knitted and wrote some. Was in to see Mr. and Mrs. Margeson an hour or
so. Guess somebody’s car or truck is stuck in Otter Brook tonight. Many
machines have been stuck and hauled, or otherwise worked, out of the
snow in places on the road from Upper Stewiacke to Brookfield this
winter.
Tuesday, March 25, 1941 –
Pretty stormy; thawing & rainy, tonight. Glenn, Shirley and Nina were to
Truro today to have an x-ray for Shirley, in beginning preparations for
her entering Aberdeen Hospital for training as a nurse. They were home
early. The men – except Tome, were late getting to bed; Muir Patterson
and Sidney Cox spent the evening here.
Wednesday, March 26, 1941 –
Rainy and soft. The mill did not work today. A number of them went to
Truro, among them Morris & George who did not intend to return tonight.
I have been in bed two days. Shirley went back to Put Fulton’s today.
Tom went home.
Thursday, March 27, 1941 – Cold
and windy – chilly but not frosty. I was in bed; did not feel very well;
guess it was the cold day. Mr. and Mrs. Sproule called in the p.m. They
had started to walk to Mr. Foster Rutherford’s, but there was too much
water on the road. Morris got home tea time. George and he had been at
Harry’s all night.
Friday, March 28, 1941 – A
fine, sunny day. Thawing the snow off a lot. The mill was operating
today, except while the funeral of the late Mr. Hugh Johnson was being
held in the church. Mr. Johnson lived in Meadowvale for some years;
moving from Berry Hill. Had one son, Percy W. Johnson; also his wife,
nee Margaret Brown; and three grandchildren, Curtis, Madge and Glenn
Johnson. Mr. Johnson was 77 years old. He died in C. C. Hospital. Wrote
to E. M. B.
Saturday, March 29, 1941 – Some
showers, and thawed some. Roy and Morris went to Stewiacke and Truro
this p.m. They returned about 8 p.m. Ruby Chase had tea with us. She and
Nina are friends. Shirley was home early. I do not know any more.
Sunday, March 30, 1941 –
Sabbath. Quite fine. Wind a little chilly. We were all at church. Glenn
took his car, and took me. We had a good sermon – it was about Jesus on
the cross. The new birth of the thief on the cross, crucified with
Jesus; and the other thief who did not have the faith or repentance; and
there was much of repentance and Jesus’ love, and his prayer to God to
forgive those who put him to death, “for they know not what they do.”
Harry, Nellie, June and Mary were at Roy’s to dine; and her to sup.
Shirley did not go to Y. P S. C. E.
Monday, March 31, 1941 – Fine
and windy; some clouds. Jennie Miller came from Musquodoboit to visit in
the village &c. We were very glad to see her. In the p.m. she and Alice
went calling on friends, and was at Mrs. Hamilton’s to tea. They came
home with Mr. David Miller in the evening, early. Glenn, Tom & G. R.
Deyarmond went a third trip to Brookfield, and were late getting back.
Mr. Leonard Johnson, who is finishing the details of wiring Edwin’s
house, was here this evening. Tom was at Badminton. Nina has a very sore
throat.
Tuesday, April 1, 1941 – A
fine, chilly windy day. I was not out doors. Jennie Miller went away
this a.m. She is to visit her uncle’s family in Meadowvale, all going as
planned. Nina did not attend school as her throat was sore. Two boys
came up with Glenn and G. R. and were here to dinner. There is some kind
of magic lantern show in the hall tonight, and the children, Freda and
Leslie, went with Nina; Shirley came from A. P. Fulton’s with Madeline
and Barbara, and went with them. None of the others of our household
attended the entertainment. They had a nice time last evening; the
children thought it very funny – the pictures – some of them.
Wednesday, April 2, 1941 – A
nice fine day: but a high wind. Alice and Glenn started for Truro, after
dinner; they had an errand to Alda’s in Brookfield, and Alice remained
with Alda, while Glenn went to Truro; he was back soon, and they were
home to tea. Evening Auxiliary (MacInnes_ meets at Mrs. G. R.
Deyarmond’s this eve.; Alice is attending it.
Thursday, April 3, 1941 – A
nice fine day; rather cold win as usual. Glenn’s throat is a little
better tonight; he rested some today. Harold Deyarmond was on the truck
with his father in place of Glenn. Edna had Ladies Aid in the Hall: as
we were quilting a Red Cross quilt, we were quilting in the hall anyway,
so she had her eatables taken there and called it Ladies’ Aid. Mr.
Leonard Johnson spent the evening visiting with Glenn and Alice. He is
nearly through wiring Edwin’s house. Ladies attending “Aid”, Mrs. Alex
Fulton, Mrs. Roy Blaikie, Miss Jennie Miller, Miss Mary E. Douglas, Mrs.
J. D. Cox, Mrs. Carrie Lynds, Mrs. C. B. Reynolds, Mrs. Frank L. Fulton
and myself. Mrs. Dulcie Cooke, missionary from Japan, Mrs. Sproule’s
sister, is home.
Friday, April 4, 1941 – Another
quite nice day – a little more cloudy than yesterday. Mrs. Margeson was
in a little while. We were glad to see her, it was no long since she had
been here. Roy and Glenn were at West River and bought an engine from
Mr. Anderson today. They left home early this a.m. and were back for
dinner by 1:30 p.m. I was at Roy’s a short time this p.m.
Saturday, April 5, 1941 – A
lovely fine day. Warner wind. Fred Wright was here to dinner; he is
looking old. Mrs. Hamilton was here to tea; she does not get up very
often; and it was nice to have her come. Leonard Johnson has finished
wiring Edwin’s house. Mrs. Alex Fulton was in this p.m. too; also
Thelma. Shirley came from A. P. Fulton’s to stay home tonight. She and
Morris are at S. Graham Fulton’s tonight.
Sunday,
April 6, 1941 – Sabbath. Cold, with a raw wind today. We were all at
church today. There were 106 persons present, Shirley said. Two
children, Frank W. Kennedy, son of Mr. and Mrs. Earle Kennedy, and Ethel
Marie, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Winnifred Patterson, were baptized in
the church this morning, by Rev. J. Marshall Sproule, our minister. Was
in Mrs. Mazrgeson’s this p.m. Mrs. Geo. Bentley was there, too.
Monday, April 7, 1941 – Chilly,
cold wind; ground froze last night. Alice washed; Shirley hung out the
clothes. She is a great help to her mother. Mr. Ervin (blank) was
processing, or perfecting, the floor in some parts of Edwin’s house
today. I was in to Mrs. Margeson’s this afternoon. Morris is not going
to badminton. Mrs. Philip Cox came home yesterday. She has undergone an
operation for the removal of her appendix, in C. C. Hospital, Truro.
Tuesday, April 8, 1941 –
Chilly. A stiff of snow which thawed off today, fell last night.
Madeline and Barbara Fulton were here to dinner. I was to G. R.
Deyarmond’s a little while this p.m. Ethel was not home. Edna was up a
little while after tea tonight. Harry and Nellie were out and took Jean
to help Nellie in housecleaning last evening. Glenn is at a trustee’s
(school) meeting tonight. Had a letter from F. J. B. today.
Wednesday, April 9, 1941 – A
nice day today. Fine, cooler at night. Glenn took Mr. and Mrs. A. L.
Kennedy to Halifax with their son, David, who entered hospital for an
operation for hernia: the V. G. Hospital. Glenn called at 165 Jubilee Rd
and saw Aunt Jessie Cooke. She is pretty well for 82 years. The Ladies
Aid is having the Musquodoboit Ladies Aid bring a play to the Agricola
Hall here tonight. “A ready made family” is the name. Alice, Shirley,
Nina and Morris are there.
Thursday, April 10, 1941 – A
fine day. Road, from here to the Manse very good, but the frost is not
out yet, so it will be bad ere long, probably. The school inspector, B.
C. Silver, was here this p.m. but I did not see him, as I was at W. M.
S. at the manse. Mr. Sproule is not very well. The young folk are at
Badminton & Morris is at the manse – at a committee meeting – War
Savings. Wrote to F. J. B., Mar. E. V., Mrs. S. A. F.
Friday, April 11, 1941 – Good
Friday. Another nice day. Was in Mrs. Margeson’s this p.m. Amy Barrett
here to tea. Had Easter cards from Dear Friend Jane and niece Eva Steel.
The intending communicants are meeting at the manse tonight.
Saturday, April 12, 1941 – Fine
again. Glenn & Alice are at the store as usual on Saturday night. We
have some colds: Morris & I and Glenn I guess. Nina is better. Mrs.
Margeson was in this p.m. I did not see her. This is John W. Fulton’s 70th
birthday.
Sunday, April 13, 1941 –
Sabbath. A nice day for the Easter Sabbath. We were all at church. A
large number united with the church today. Our minister, Rev. J.
Marshall Sproule, told us of April 13th last year. He had
undergone a major operation in hospital and was very ill. How
wonderfully and beautifully the way has changed for him at this time
this year! A pageant by the Mission Band was held in the evening.
Monday, April 14, 1941 –
Cloudy, and showery all day. Not cold. Alice washed but did not get the
clothes dried. I sewed at the ‘Dresden Plate’ quilt &c. Glenn & Alice
took Freda, and Leslie, and Morley and Ruth to Springside as last
evening’s pageant was top be held in that congregation tonight. Some
people, Miss Ula Cox, Messrs. Arnold Jackson and Lloud Creelman of South
Branch, got stuck in our late tonight; Morris and Tom got our truck and
pulled them out. Had a letter from Mrs. W. F. Blaikie; an Easter card
too.
Tuesday, April 15, 1941 – A
fine day, and warm too. Glenn, and G. R. Deyarmond, are not trucking
now; roads are closed for hauling much. G. R. is at home. In the p.m. I
walked to G. R. Deyarmond’s, and Ethel (Mrs. G. R.) made some
improvements on my new dress. Then, on my way home, I called at Mrs. H.
P. Cox’s and had a little chat with her. Gordon Miller is here this p.m.
Morris is at the manse, at a S. S. meeting, as Sabbath School is to open
soon. Had a letter from Mrs. Miller. I hope to see her Friday (D. V.)
Wednesday, April 16, 1941 – A
fine day. Alice and Olive at quilting for Red Cross, at the hall this
p.m. The Mission Circle made the quilt. Mrs. Margeson was in a little
while.
Thursday, April 17, 1941 – The
roads are pretty bad. Cars and trucks getting stuck. Mrs. Alex Fulton
was in a short time this p.m. The war is still raging: British and
Greeks & Yugoslavs losing ground lately.
Friday, April 18, 1941 –
Cloudy, cool; some rain in the night. Wrote to E. M. B. today. Got the
Dresden Plate quilt top put together today. Allen Deyarmond was here to
dinner; also Priscilla B. Miller with Freda to dinner. Morris is not
well, has a bad cold. Shirley is a choir practice. Roads in a bad
condition.
Saturday, April 19, 1941 –
Pretty fine day. My sister Edith (Mrs. Woodworth) and Mr. and Mrs. Percy
Goodwin came up today, and are remaining overnight. Morris has cold, and
does not feel very well.
Sunday, April 20, 1941 –
Sabbath. Nice and fine. All were at church, including my sister Mrs.
Edith Woodworth and her daughter, Mrs. Percy Goodwin. Mr. Goodwin was a
Roy’s and he and Roy were not at church. The sermon was from the 3rd
chapter of Colossians: various directions for right living as given by
St. Paul in his letter to the Colossians. Our relatives went away about
3:30 p.m. I went to Mr. Margeson’s and had a very pleasant call. Morris
did not go to the Young People’s meeting.
Monday, April 21, 1941 –
Another fine day. Wind a little chilly. Alice washed, and the clothes
dried, and we ironed them. I also cut some patchwork and knitted a
little; was in Roy’s in the p.m. and saw Mrs. Everett B. Deyarmond and
her daughter, Mrs. Herman Johnson. The boys and girls were at Badminton.
Had letters from Mrs. S. A. Fulton and F. J. B.
Tuesday, April 22, 1941 –
Another fine, rather cold, windy day. J. W. Benvie put a new floor in my
bedroom; and was putting in a new sink for the kitchen. Had a letter
from Mrs. Annie Miller. Glad to hear that she had a nice birthday. She
enjoyed Mrs. Sproule’s visit very much.
Wednesday, April 23, 1941 –
Windy, but fine. Was in Roy’s in the p.m.; saw Mrs. Everett Deyarmond &
her daughter, Mrs. Herman Johnson, who were calling there. It was good
to see Mrs. Deyarmond, Dora Fulton, my friend of long ago. There was a
shower for Olive and Edwin tonight. About sixty people were there. Alice
and I were not present, nor Freda and Leslie.
Thursday, April 24, 1941 –
(First entry for this date). Dark this a.m., then soft snow, which
developed into rain in the p.m. Alice went to her mother’s in the
morning. I was to see Olive, Edwin’s wife, in the a.m. Had a nice call.
Olive is kind and nice. Hazel Deyarmond is here to tea. The girls and
Hazel are friends, and often visit back and forth.
Thursday, April 24, 1941 –
(Second diary entry for this date). Dark, and snowy, ending in rain.
Alice went to help her mother house clean – got away before the rain
came. She got home soon after tea. The girls and Tom went to Badminton.
Friday, April 25, 1941 – Dark,
but only slight showers; sun shone out once. It was not a cold day.
Alice went to Mrs. Hamilton’s today but came home before tea – with
Glenn who was down that way. Shirley and Glenn went to J. D. Cox’s,
taking or going with Mrs. Sproule, who was up a few minutes; Morris went
afterwards – to choir practice at J. D. Cox’s. Sent a letter to F. J. B.
today and received one from J. W. 4320 Cambridge Street, Vancouver, B.
C. This letter was type-written by Mr. Wright, who is in his (blank)
year.
Into my
heart’s treasury I slipped a coin,
That time cannot take, nor a thief purloin –
Oh, better than the minting of a gold crowned King,
Is the safe kept memory of a lovely thing.
Sara Teasdale?
Saturday, April 26, 1941 –
Quite foggy this a.m.; then the sun shone, then it was cloudy. Morris,
Sidney Cox and George Blaikie went to Truro this p.m. I went to the
Margeson’s a while. After tea, I came upstairs and read to Freda, and a
little to Leslie. There is some sort of a committee meeting here
tonight. Political it was.
Sunday, April 27, 1941 –
Sabbath. A rainy day; but we were all at church, as Glenn took the car.
Mr. Sproule preached on friendship with Jesus. He told us much of the
comfort of having him as our friend; of being often in prayer, and a lot
I cannot remember. Mr. & Mrs. Gordon Miller had little Jimmie with them
at church. And Mrs. Philip Cox was there for the first time since her
operation. A Miss Hennigar is helping her with her house work, and she
was at church too. None of is were at the evening meeting.
Monday, April 28, 1941 – A
rainy day. Rained almost constantly until 5.30 or about that time. Alice
washed the clothes, not getting them dry. This was Mr. Margeson’s
eighty-sixth birthday. Mr. & Mrs. Sproule called on them; also some
others. The young people here went to Badminton. E. G. McColough, a
prominent man of Col. Co., is passed away.
Tuesday, April 29, 1941 – Fine
this a.m., quite windy; cloudy in the p.m. The clothes dried. Alice was
helping Mrs. Hamilton; (her mother). I was in Roy’s a little while this
a.m. Tom Fulton, accompanied by Muir Patterson, and G. R. Deyarmond,
went to Truro for a Chevrolet Coupe, which he is purchasing from
Blaikies Garage folk today.
Wednesday, April 30, 1941 –
Quite fine today, though a cold wind. Was in Roy’s and talked to them a
little while. Alice was helping Mrs. Hamilton clean house again today. I
sent a letter to Aunt Jessie.
Thursday, May 1, 1941 – A fine
day, with a cool wind. I did not do much except put the things back in
the boy’s bedroom, after Alice had cleaned it, and knit some, and go to
Ethel Deyarmond’s a short time. Mrs. S. Fulton was there too. Mrs. Alex
called here. Tom & Glenn took John Fulton to Wittenberg to live at his
nephew and niece’s, Dot & Walter Webster’s. Glenn & Tom were to Truro
too. The young folk are at Badminton; it closes tonight.
Friday, May 2, 1941 – Fine with
cold wind. Just knitted and did the bedroom work this a.m. Tom Fulton
was in this a.m. He was practicing on his new car. In the p.m. Edwin &
Morris were hauling gravel and they took me to Mrs. Pearson’s, where I
spent the p.m. with the two Mrs. Pearson’s, and had a nice time. Had tea
with them too; Glenn, Freda and Leslie came for me. Shirley and Morris
are at choir practice. Had a letter from W. F. B., 5518 S. W. 7th
Street, Miami, Florida.
Saturday, May 3, 1941 – Some
sunshine, clouds & a cold wind. Glenn, Shirley, Nina, Freda & Leslie
were in Truro. Shirley and Nina are getting their teeth repaired &c.
They returned before tea. There were just Alice, Morris and I here to
dinner. I was in Roy’s this a.m. and at Ethel’s in the p.m. All are away
tonight except Shirley and myself. Freda and Leslie are in bed; they are
tired. Mr. and Mrs. Dr. Buntain are round the village today and will
remain until tomorrow. Wrote to F. M. G. & E. M. B.
Sunday, May 4, 1941 – Sabbath.
Fine; but a chilly wind. All at church except myself. Edna & Roy were at
J. A. Grant’s. Sabbath School began today. I think there were Mr. & Mrs.
Buntain, Mr. W. P. Miller and Almon, and Joyce Deyarmond. Thelma and
Ruth Blaikie were afternoon callers. Morris was at Mrs. Alex Fulton’s to
tea, with Tom Fulton.
Monday, May 5, 1941 – Fine,
windy, too. Clothes dried. I was sewing at patchwork, and knitting. In
the p.m. I went over to Mr. Margeson’s and stayed an hour then went to
see Edna a little while. I read some, and sewed some when I came home.
Had a letter from Nettie.
Tuesday, May 6, 1941 – Fine,
but a cold wind. At dinner time (after the meal of course) Morris took
me to Rilla Laffin’s to visit Mrs. Annie Miller. Had not seen her since
Christmas. She looks fatter in the face than she did then I think. Spent
the p.m. with them, remaining for tea. Mr. and Mrs. Harrison Henley
called, also little Betty Ashe. The play from Middle Musquodoboit was
put on in the hall (Agricola) in the eve. Shirley and Nina were the only
ones from here who went. Morris took Mrs.. Mazrgeson to the store when
he came for me, then took her home. The play netted $22.50 for here &
there. They were on a fifty, fifty basis.
Wednesday, May 7, 1941 – A
lively day; there was wind but it was not a cold wind. Was in to see
Olive a short time this a.m. The I fried gaspereaux for dinner Worked at
cards for the Mission Band in the p.m. The Evening Auxiliary meets here
tonight. Freda has a nasty cough. This is Little Thomas Darl Boomer’s
birthday; he is seven years old. It is Raymond Hodge’s too.
Thursday, May 8, 1941 – Another
nice day, rather cooler than yesterday. Edna was in a short time this
a.m. She and I were at the W. M. S. at the manse in the p.m. Mrs. J.
Abram Bentley, Mrs. Edmund Hamilton, Mrs. W. D. Kennedy, Mrs. J. M.
Sproule, Mrs. Roy Blaikie, Mrs. Alex Fulton, Mrs. E. Grant Cox, Mrs.
George Bentley were present, also myself. Had a nice meeting. Choir
practice is tonight, as there is a rally in Truro tomorrow night, and he
(Morris?) may go to that.
Friday, May 9, 1941 – A very
rainy day. The water is high. Freda has a bad cough. She is asleep now.
Mrs. Sproule, Ruby Chase, Shirley went to Truro this p.m. Roy took
Thelma, Ruth, Harold Deyarmond and Mr. Sproule to Truro, so Morris did
not go. Tom Fulton and Muir Patterson went this morning. I cut patchwork
and knitted most of the day. Sent a short letter to F. J. B.
Saturday, May 10, 1941 –
Showery; quite a freshet. Finished a pair of socks (R.C.) and fixed up
two or three closets a bit. We hear little Hughie Fulton is sick. Freda
is sick too, has a bad cough. Ross Johnson was here tonight; consulting
about S. School.
If this
but of earth may be
Stronger for the strength I bring,
Sweeter for the songs I sing,
Happier for the path I tread,
Lighter for the light I shed,
Nobler for the death I die,
Not in vain have I been I
Sunday, May 11, 1941 – Sabbath.
Dark and misty, not very cold tho’. Leslie and Glenn were home from
church, as Leslie was sick. Glenn drove us to and from church. Mr.
Sproule preached from the 19th chapter of St. John 23-28
verses. About Jesus and his Mother. In the p.m. Harry, June and Lee
came. Harry and June were here to tea. Lee was at Roy’s. Alda and Eldon
were at Roy’s tonight. Morris & the girls and Tom were at Y. P. S. C. E.
Roy was up in the evening.
Monday, May 12, 1941 – Dark,
and rainy, but a little sunshine & wind enough to dry the clothes. Glenn
went to Truro. Mrs. Margeson was over a little while this p.m. Had a
letter form E. M. B. and a parcel from Edith and Flossie, both. A pretty
hand bag and a lovely hankey & card.
Tuesday, May 13, 1941 – Dark;
rainy in the night; fine this p.m. I worked at some little flower beds
this a.m. Also sewed a little in the p.m. I went to see how little
Hughie Fulton was; he has been ill. Is better today. Then I went into
Mrs. Margeson’s a while; then home; after tea Freda and I gardened a
little. There is an Aid meeting in the hall tonight. Wrote to E. M. B.
today.
The
winter time is over,
The spring is here again,
For softly on the housetops
you can hear the gentle rain.
(written by Morris Donaldson, R. R. 3, Clifford, Ont., age 12 yrs.)
Wednesday-Saturday, May 14-17, 1941
– Quite rainy and dark until today, fine and warm. Morris and George
accompanied me to Aunt Edith’s (my sister, Mrs. Edith Woodworth)
Wednesday evening; they did not stay long; went home in the rain. My
sister and I have had a very nice time together. There have been some
callers, and we have had some nice talks &c. The grass is getting green
and the spring, tho’ late, is coming on. Mr. and Mrs. Fred S. Woodworth
are up from Halifax; he is in the Dental Corps. Mr. and Mrs. Eric
Rayworth and daughter Bertella called this afternoon. They live in
Moncton, N. B. This is Saturday night – a lovely balmy p.m.
Sunday, May 18, 1941 – Sabbath.
Pretty fine. Sister Edith, Fred and Bessie went to church; I stayed
home, kept on the fire, and got dinner. After dinner was over, Bessie
and Fred went to Percy Goodwin’s; they were there to tea. Then came
home, and Fred left for Halifax, Bessie remaining for the week – until
Saturday anyway.
An
endless line of splendor,
These troops with Heaven for home!
With creeds they go from Scotland,
With incense go from Rome.
These, in the name of Jesus,
Against the dark gods stand;
They gird the earth with valor,
They heed the King’s command.
Monday, May 19, 1941 – Dark,
with slight showers; raining tonight. We had a mess of dandelion greens
for dinner. Bessie was sewing – Edith was to Mrs. J. D. Cox’s to get a
dish for Bessie to color her bath robe, which she did in the p.m. It
looks very well, and took a nice color, mauve – it colored very evenly.
Dorothy Tupper and Celia Dickie, also Mrs. J. Cox, called. Also Burnham
Cox. Wrote to Nettie.
Tuesday, May 20, 1941 – Cloudy,
with spatters of rain most of the day; but it looks finer tonight – and
seems colder. Sent letters to F. J. B., and Morris, also to Grace.
Burnham Cox was in and out, having got some groceries for Edith; she and
Bessie are calling at Charlie Meadows’ tonight.
Wednesday, May 21, 1941 – A
lovely day, sunshiny and warm. Just a quiet day. Bessie and Edith were
over washing &c. Donalda Cox was in tonight. Had the mail: there was a
letter from E. M. B. Mr. Taylor called this p.m. Guess this is all for
tonight.
Thursday, May 22, 1941 –
Showers, cloudy, a little sun too, wind cool tonight. Grass is growing
well. Just a quiet day. Some of the neighbors were in two or three
times. Evening time is here.
Friday, May 23, 1941 – Dark and
cloudy; slight showers. We had a fine quiet day. After tea, Bessie and I
set forth to have a walk to the neighbors. I went into J. H. Cox’s, and
she went to H. P. Tupper’s, a little further along. We had a nice
surprise coming back to Edith’s: Fred was there, had come while we were
away. He brought the mail and we got the ‘Truro News’. The marriage of
Frank Brown Cox to Florence Evelyn Searle of Truro was published in the
‘News’. It had taken place on May 14, 1941.
Saturday, May 24, 1941 –
Cloudy, sunshiny and showery. Fred was doing work (repairing) the horse
stable. Bessie went to Stewiacke with Glenn & Alice and family when they
returned to Upper Stewiacke after having called an hour or so here at
their Aunt Edith’s. Then she expected to make a few calls, and return to
Halifax, by the cream truck after tea, or set out to do so: then Morris
arrived from Tatamagouche, and had tea here; remained a short time, and
departed for home, intending to call at P. R. Goodwin’s (D. V.) on the
way. Edith and I spent a quiet evening; played three games of “Sorry”.
Helen Cooper of Cross Roads, Upper Stewiacke, daughter of Mr. & Mrs.
Albert Cooper of that place, and Donald McKay, son of Mr. & Mrs. Geo.
McKay of Burnside, Col. Co., were married May (blank).
Sunday, May 25, 1941 – Sabbath.
Looked like rain this a.m.; had rained in the night; in the p.m. it was
fine with cold wind. Charles Meadows and his little son Ralph called;
after that Mrs. McKillop, Sen., and Mr. and Mrs. Albert McKillop, called
a while. The latter ones went into the field and gathered violets. We
had evening visitors too; Mr. and Mrs. Percy R. Goodwin and Mr. and Mrs.
Howard Lewis. We had some fun over our lunch of marble cake and Adam’s
ale (water). Edith and I read the sermon in the Family Herald, repeated
some Bible verses, and read some extracts and selections from some
little verse books. We wrote some letters – one to Mrs. Annie Miller.
Monday, May 26, 1941 – Quite a
fine, windy, not cold, day. Edith washed today; the wind blew the
clothes around on the line, and she had a hard time to get them off it.
It took her a long time. We rested a while in the p.m.; then knitted a
while; Mrs. Page Tupper and the meat man were callers this afternoon.
Edith dug the ground for her dahlias after tea – I washed the dishes –
not a heavy task.
Tuesday, May 27, 1941 – Rather
dark this a.m., but was a nice day. Burnham Cox brought the milk for
Edith and me this a.m. We ironed & Edith partly cleaned the sun porch.
In the p.m. we rested a while; then worked at some patchwork; and Edith
planted dahlias; and come columbine and (blank) seed. Now we are
preparing for evening. Had a letter from Aunt Jessie.
Wednesday, May 28, 1941 – A
lovely fine day; cool tonight. Donalda Cox was in this a.m. on her way
to school. Had three letters – one from Little Freda Blaikie, one from
Mrs. Lloyd Sarcy (nee Miriam Webster) and one from F. J. B. We washed &
ironed some – I, very little – this forenoon. Cut patchwork in the p.m.
Thursday, May 29, 1941 – A wet
day. Rained in the night too. A few snow flakes fell. Edith and I worked
at patchwork. Burnham Cox called on his way to lodge.
Friday, May 30, 1941 – Cold and
cloudy and some drizzling rain. The wind was quite cold. Bread baked by
Edith; I baked some cookies one day: Ginger snaps. Mrs. J. H. Cox, and
Mrs. Charles Meadows and little Ralph were here a little while.
Saturday, May 31, 1941 – A
lovely fine day. Burnham Cox and his father put their cows into the
Woodworth pasture today. We pieced patchwork. Edith washed up the dining
room and kitchen. I was over to the Cox’s on an errand after supper; had
a nice little call.
“Let’s
oftener talk of happy days,
and rarer of the bad ones;
and speak about the gladsome days;
and not about the sad ones.”
Sunday, June 1, 1941 – Sabbath.
Nice and fine this a.m.; cloudy with a few sprinkles of rain in the
afternoon. Neither Edith or I were at church; but we read a sermon on
“The three men who were cast into the burning fiery furnace – Shadrach,
Meshech and Abednego;” it was printed in the Family Herald of last week.
In the p.m. we were invited to go to Mrs. Page Tupper’s to tea, as Ellen
was home for the day. We had been there a little while when Morris came,
with a friend, and we went back with them – to Edith’s. They had tea,
spent the evening, and went away.
Monday, June 2, 1941 – Nice and
fine this a.m., but there were two or three showers this afternoon.
Edith cleaned her dining room, and rearranged it, and did various other
things. Moved the stove upstairs. Mrs. Alice (Christie) Ellis was here
to tea. I walked over home with her. Edith and I are sitting here
chatting tonight. This is Thelma’s birthday.
Tuesday, June 3, 1941 – A
pleasant sunny day. Mr. J. H. Cox and son Burnham called and put Edith’s
stove upstairs for her. Then Mr. Irving Whitman made us a lengthy call
this forenoon too. He is working on the roads. In the p.m. a man named
MacPhee called to bet subscriptions for the Maritime Farmer, a farm
magazine. We, Edith & I cut patchwork after our siesta, (nap). Write to
E. M. B. Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Laffin called this evening; we enjoyed their
company very much.
Wednesday, June 4, 1941 –
Another quite fine day; with some cloudy periods; then the sun would
come out again. It was very quiet; Mrs. J. H. Cox called; also Donalda
Cox, with the mail.
Thursday, June 5, 1941 – Quite
fine this a.m. Cloudy, p.m., but no rain. Mrs. J. H. Cox was in a few
minutes. We got the pieces for the Dresdan plate quilt all cut this
afternoon: and Eva (Mrs. Harold Steel) and little Joyce Marion came from
Amherst in the late p.m. Joyce is cute. Had letters from Mrs. Annie
Miller, Rilla Laffin and Sister Clara (Mrs. M. D. Town).
Friday, June 6, 1941 – Sunshine
and clouds. My ankle was sore and I stayed in bed until after dinner;
the ankle is better tonight. Eva & little Joyce, Flora and Percy went to
Lindsay Lake after Edith, who teaches there. They were here to tea.
Saturday, June 7, 1941 – A very
nice warm day. All the farmers are seeding – as far as we can see about
this place. Eva drove a truck up to Stewiacke for Rupert Metlen; he took
up a tractor and brought Eva back. He would have to walk back after the
truck, had she not drive the truck home. Harold, Eva’s husband, came
this p.m. Little Joyce was glad to see him; Eva was, too.
Sunday, June 8, 1941 – Sabbath.
A cloudy day, with a few sprinkles of rain; not very cold. None of us
got to church. Percy, Flora and Edith Goodwin came for dinner. In the
p.m. Edwin and Olive came; there were some other callers, Mrs. W. O’Neil
and Miss Ethel Frame – after 2:30 or thereabout the Goodwins went home;
and, after tea, Edwin and Olive B. & Harold & Eva Steel went up to
Percy’s, where Harold and Eva propose to stay all night; Olive & Edwin
to spend a short time with them; then go home.
Monday, June 9, 1941 – Another
fine day with cool wind & a slight shower of rain about 7.30. Harold and
Eva returned before dinner; little Joyce got through the night O.K. We
had a nice quiet p.m.
Tuesday, June 10, 1941 – Dark
and showery, quite rainy in the p.m. Edith washed and got the clothes
dried so they could be ironed, some out of doors and some in doors.
Burnham Cox called and brought the mail. After tea Mr. Retson and Flora
came for Eva and little Joyce and took them to Percy’s for a day or two.
Mrs. Page Tupper was in tonight. Had letters from Morris, Flossie and
sister Janie. We, Edith & I, are alone now.
Wednesday, June 11, 1941 –
Showery, cold wind & a little sunshine. Just a quiet day. We had a call
from Irving Whitman, Donalda Cox and tonight from Rupert Metlin. We
sewed and Edith ironed and knitted &c. Cold tonight. We heard of Mr. W.
Foster Rutherford’s death. He was an old man over 80 years old, I think.
Thursday, June 12, 1941 –
Sunshine, clouds & some wind. Edith started to clean her pantry, got
some of it cleaned; and had a call from Mr. A. McKillop, saying that, if
favorable to us, Edith & I, his mother wished him to come here, and
motor us to see her, Mrs. E. McKillop’s home, to spend the p.m. with
her. The kind invitation was accepted and Mr. Albert McKillop arriving,
we were taken to Mrs. Ed McKillop’s, where we spent a very pleasant p.m.
Soon after tea, Morris and Eva arrived for us. We went to Edith’s, and
Morris and Eva set out for Upper Stewiacke, via of Percy Goodwin’s,
leaving, or proposing to leave Joyce with Flora. This is Glenn’s
birthday. I had a little gift but forgot to send it. The funeral of the
late William Foster Rutherford of Cross Roads, Upper Stewiacke, was held
in the United Church this afternoon. Rev. J. M. Sproule preaching the
funeral sermon.
Friday, June 13, 1941 – A
lovely fine day. Burnham Cox plowed Edith’s garden this late p.m. Edith
cleaned her pantry and did various odds & ends. We are enjoying the
evening together.
Saturday, June 14, 1941 – A
sunny coolish day, tho’ pleasant. We are spending the last day of our
visit together – Edith and I, very enjoyably. My rheumatism is better,
and I am comfortable. But Edith has not been well: her legs are
troubling her – from having cleaned her pantry – she finished it
yesterday, and is very stiff and sore today. We read some in “Heartsease
for those looking toward the sunset”; either yesterday or today:
finished reading it – it is a fine book of heartsease verses. Then we
read some of Bret Harte’s poems. This is Tennyson.
Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,
But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.
Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;
For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crossed the bar.
Morris,
and Eva, (& baby Joyce who had been at Flora’s) came about 8.30 p.m. We
were treated to ice cream and pine apple by them, after Joyce was put in
bed. Then Morris and I left for our home in Upper Stewiacke, where we
arrived about 10:10 Thus ended a happy month’s visit.
Sunday, June 15, 1941 –
Sabbath. Rained last night, and some today. We were all at church. Mr.
Sproule preached from, “For the former things are passed away,” and
“Behold I make all things new.” – the subject or theme was the, or “A
new world in the making.” We had a short call from Mrs. Ratcliffe, she
and her mother and brother Tom were going in to North Rover to spend a
week with Mrs. S. R. Murray – nee Muriel Fulton. Lloyd Fleming and Ralph
Fleming Blaikie were here to tea. Mrs. Janet Ogilvie is dead. She is an
old lady.
Monday, June 16, 1941 – Rather
cloudy this a.m., but was a fine day. I mended and cut patchwork and was
in Roy’s and Mr. Margeson’s this day. Also read some. Morris and Shirley
are at choir practice. Tom Fulton was talking to me a little while
tonight. Anent my visit, his uncle John &c. Saw Mrs. Everett Deyarmond,
Mr. and Mrs. Allen Deyarmond and Arthur, Mrs. Everett Deyarmond’s son, a
few minutes. Parker Thompson (17) of Victoria St., Truro, was killed in
a motor accident, on Waverley Road, about three miles from Dartmouth
yesterday p.m. His parents, Mr. & Mrs. Gerald S. Thompson, one sister
Betty, and grand parents, Mr. & Mrs. Thompson (Montreal) and Mrs. S. A.
Fulton, maternal grandparents, of Upper Stewiacke, survive.
Tuesday, June 17, 1941 – Rainy
last night, but a pretty fine day today; quite warm too. Was in to see
the Margeson’s this a.m. Mr. Margeson is not very well. I mended some
this p.m. Sent a letter to F. J. B.
Wednesday, June 18, 1941 – A
nice fine day, after a foggy morning. I just did some little chores this
forenoon. There was a cup and saucer party for Miss Mary Douglas this
p.m. She received twenty-five cups and saucers; and she was much
surprised. Parker Thompson was laid to rest in the Riverside Cemetery;
the funeral was held in Truro. The large number of flowers, showing the
love and sympathy from many friends to Parker’s relatives, was
beautiful. There were fifteen or sixteen cars in the procession, besides
many friends & relatives from surrounding districts. Sent a letter to
Mrs. Girdwood. Then Mona McKay and (blank) Rushton were married at the
bride’s mother’s, Mrs. M. C. McKay this p.m. Our men were loading cars
in Brookfield. Just Morris and George were at home. Roy and Edna were
down to W. D. Kennedy’s a few minutes tonight, and invited me to go with
them. It was a nice drive. Had a letter from F. J. B.
Thursday, June 19, 1941 – Foggy
this morning, but turned to a lovely day. Was in to see Mr. Margeson
this a.m. He is not very well – lies on the sofa a lot. Edna, Mrs. W. D.
Kennedy, Mrs. Raymond Deyarmond and Roy went to Truro this afternoon –
they were choosing linoleum for the kitchen floor at the manse. In the
p.m. Morris drove me to Ladies’ Aid, which was held at Mrs. Edson Cox’s.
Ladies present were Mrs. S. A. Fulton, Mrs. Carrie Lynds, Mrs. J. M.
Sproule, Mrs. (Dr.) Creelman, (Will Cox’s aunt who is visiting him),
Mrs. Graham Cox, Miss Jennie Miller, Mrs. H. T. Fulton, Miss Mabel
Fulton, Mrs. H. J. Fulton, Mrs. Stewart Hickman, and myself. George
brought me home. They are practicing for the pageant which is to be held
in the hall tomorrow evening.
Friday, June 20, 1941 – Rather
dark and cloudy, not too hot – a nice day for Field Day. Shirley, Hazel
and Jean sold ice cream. There were games and running races; and jumping
&c. Then in the evening there was a pageant – ten schools. The inspector
was there; in the day time & at night too. They had singing, a large
choir at the front of the hall. The pageant was on the platform. The
children went through various exercises very nicely. The Burnside School
went through a drill, with (blank) Graham playing the violin to their
marching and keeping time. Mr. B. C. Silver, the school inspector, gave
them praise for their drill. Roy and Glenn are changing their cars.
Glenn’s is a DeSoto (blank) Roy (blank) a Dodge.
Saturday, June 21, 1941 – A
fine hot day. The warmest day we have had this year. They were trucking
to Brookfield as usual. Fred Wright was here to dinner. Mr. Margeson is
ill again; has failed much, lately.
Sunday, June 22, 1941 –
Sabbath. A nice breezy hot day. We were all at church this a.m. Rev. Mr.
Sproule preached from Eccl. 10; 10. “If the iron be blunt and he do not
whet the edge, then must he put more strength; but wisdom is profitable
to direct.” It was a good sermon and he applied it to our lives –
teaching us of things we should do to make others happy, and as to our
living a life acceptable to God, looking to Jesus for help. Glenn took
us for a drive to Meadowvale in the p.m. I was to see Mrs. Miller, came
home with Roy when he went to Sabbath School; then I was to seen Mr. and
Mrs. Margeson a little while; he is not feeling very well. Mrs. Stanley
Murray & family brought Mrs. Alex Fulton & daughter Annie (Mrs.
Ratcliffe) home from North River today.
Monday, June 23, 1941 – About
as chilly as it was warm yesterday. Alice washed and the clothes dried
well. Did not do much today; Freda and Leslie went to the store and got
me a new broom and a bottle of Minard’s liniment; the broom was 50¢ and
the liniment 35¢. Provincial exams began today. I was in Mr. Margeson’s
this p.m. I do not know much more to write.
Tuesday, June 24, 1941 – Warmer
than yesterday but the wind was cool. Feels cool tonight. Two days of
provincial exams are over: there are eleven pupils writing their Grade
XI here this year. They are Pauline Butcher, Florence Miller and Glenn
Johnson from Meadowvale; Nina Blaikie, Amy Barett and Harold Deyarmond
from Upper Stewiacke School; Jean Dickey, Dorotny Fisher, (Blank)
Kendrick, (Blank) Fisher. Had a letter from Vivian Boomer and Mrs. Ray
Boomer this week.
Wednesday, June 24, 1941 – Cool
and windy. Was in to see Mr. & Mrs. Margeson; he is not any better. He
was in the kitchen on the couch. Mrs. Chas. Mattatall & her little Gail
Joan, her brother, Lloyd Blaikie & father Chas. A. Blaikie were here
from Truro the last part of the afternoon. Mr. & Mrs. Eldon Brenton were
at Roy’s – Alda was here a little while; and Mr. and Mrs. Harry Blaikie
were here in the evening. Tom Fulton was out home.
Thursday, June 25, 1941 – Rainy
and cold. There was a bad frost last night. It damaged some of the
gardens. Uncle Chas. Blaikie was at Roy’s all night last night. He is
cheerful to have as a visitor. They all like him. Was in to Mrs.
Margeson’s; Mr. Margeson is no better. Was also in at Olive’s and
Edna’s. There is nothing much for me to write tonight.
If but
one message I may leave behind
One single word of courage for my kind,
It will be this, ‘Oh, brother, sister, friend,
What ever life may bring – what God may send,
No matter whether clouds life soon or late,
Take heart and wait.
Friday, June 27, 1941 – Cool
and damp this morning, but warmer in the afternoon. Morris took me to A.
P. Fulton’s, where I spent the p.m. with Mr. & Mrs. Alex Fulton, and the
latter part with Annie Fulton, now she is Mrs. H. Ratcliffe. Glenn &
Freda and Leslie came for me tonight.
Despair
may tangle darkly at your feet
Your faith may be dimmed,
and home once cool, once sweet,
Be lost – but suddenly above a hill
A heavenly lamp set on a heavenly sill
Will shine for you and point the way to go,
How well I know.
Saturday, June 28, 1941 – A
fine day and quite warm. Was over to Mrs. Margeson’s, but did not go
into the house. Mr. Margeson is no better, Mrs. Margeson said. When I
went home, my dear friend, Minnie (Mrs. P. W. Graham) was here: she
stayed to dinner; and we went to Florence’s (Mrs. Graham Fulton). Made a
wee visit there; came home, and Minnie got a ride home, with Alvin
Deyarmond in his truck. I mended a little, had supper, read and told
stories, and am now about to get ready for bed. Morris is away.
Sunday, June 29, 1941 –
Sabbath. Cloudy and cool this morning, but the afternoon was fine and
warmer. We were all at church except Glenn. The sermon was from Deut.
8:11. “Beware that thou forget the Lord thy God.” Three things keep us
from God – worldly possessions, too much luxury, pride and disobedience
to God. Emphasis was laid on the first word of the text – “Beware.” In
the p.m. I was in to see Mr. Margeson. He seemed a little better –
talked more; he was lying on the sofa. Morris was at the manse to
dinner. Mrs. Sproule went to Sunday School with Roy. He was up to see
Mr. John Wright, who is nearing the end of the way. Roy has just left. I
always look forward to his visits on my Sabbath evenings. Alda and Eldon
are up tonight.
Monday, June 30, 1941 – Pretty
windy; but fine. Clothes dried well. Was not in Mrs. Margeson’s today.
Others of the family were in, and said Mr. Margeson was about the same.
This was school meeting night. They had a favorable school meeting:
perhaps satisfactory is a better word to use. Roy was elected to fill
Glenn’s place on the board of trustees; Glenn having filled the office
for three years. Morris and Edwin were hauling gravel for Edwin’s
filling in round his house, and in front of the truck garage.
Tuesday, July 1, 1941 – Cloudy,
with a slight shower and some sunshine. Most of the men went away in the
p.m. Glenn was home most of the time. George, all the time. The mill did
not run. I was at Mr. Margeson’s. He is about as usual.
Wednesday, July 2, 1941 – A
fine hot day. My sister Nettie (Mrs. Frank A. Abrahamson), Mrs. J. W.
Fulton, Sister Miss Dot Webster, Nettie’s son, Stanley F. Abrahamson,
his cousin Chester Town, and a friend, Dickatali (blank) were here for a
short call this p.m. Evening Auxiliary was at Mrs. Ross Johnson’s
tonight; Alice and Shirley were there. Tom Fulton went out home, as his
sister, Mrs. Ratfliffe, is going back to Vancouver – starting tomorrow
a.m. Had a letter from E. M. W.
Thursday, July 3, 1941 –
Another fine day, but cooler than yesterday. Quite a wind too. I did not
do much today – read some, sewed a little. Was in Roy’s. Alice works
diligently in her garden. There is a meeting of the S. School officers
and teachers at the manse tonight. Wrote to V. J. B. Mr. and Mrs. A.
Putnam Fulton took their sister Mrs. Ratcliffe to Truro, where she
starts for her long journey to Vancouver, B. C.
Friday, July 4, 1941 – Fine; a
little cloudy. I worked at getting my patchwork fixed up this a.m.;
sorting over things etc. My hand and wrist pretty sore this p.m. Was
over to Mr. Margeson’s. Nina was at Mrs. Hamilton’s all or most of the
day. Freda was there this afternoon. Mrs. Alex Fulton, Betty Murray,
Madeline and Barbara Fulton were at Mrs. Margteson’s and here a while
after tea. Had a letter from F. J. B. Roy was in tonight.
Saturday-Friday July 5-11, 1941
– (no entries)
Saturday, July 12, 1941 – I
have not written for a week, as the old trouble as caused me to be laid
aside; arthritis has been bother me, keeping me from writing or using my
usual right hand and arm very much. It is much better now – but the
disease still lingers in my joints, &c. The pain is largely gone tho’,
and it is nice – a relief. Mr. Johnnie Wright of South Vale, Upper
Stewiacke, died July 4 or 5; and the funeral was held in the church here
on Sabbath, July 6. Mr. and Mrs. Frederick S. Woodsworth had a son,
born at the Grace Maternity Hospital July 6th. I cannot
remember all that occurred – the welcome rain came last week, and
revived the crops. Mr. Margeson is somewhat better. The W. M. S. met at
Mrs. Abram Bentley’s, Otter Brook, on Thursday. The Y. L. Club met with
Mrs. Glenn Blaikie on Wednesday. Guess they enjoyed themselves; there
were 11 present. Edwin has not been well for three or four days, but
seems better now; he was in here a little while this afternoon. There
was a grand ball (dance) at F. B. Cox’s house on Friday eve.; a large
crowd attended. The dance was held in the new shop which Mr. Cox is
building. This was a warm day with quite a breeze. Wrote to E. M. B.
(per Nina) today, July 12, & J. E. C. yesterday.
Sunday, July 13, 1941 –
Sabbath. Cloudy and dark, with a shower or two in the p.m. We were all
at church; it was a baptismal service. Twenty children were baptized. In
the afternoon, Glenn & Alice and family went to Short’s Lake a little
while, then to brother Walter Webster’s at Wittenberg, where they had
team and came home early in the evening. Morris dined at John Miller’s,
Cross Roads, and was at Roy’s and Edwin’s later; just he and I took
supper together. It was nice and quiet. Tom Fulton took his father and
mother to R. D. Power’s (their cousin’s) and they had tea there.
Monday, July 14, 1941 – Cloudy
this a.m.; but fine toward night. Alice washed. Shirley went to Mrs.
Sproule’s to stay with Ruby Chase, while Mr. & Mrs. Sproule are at
Advocate for a day or two. Glenn, Freda and Leslie and I drove down to
Mrs. Hamilton’s a few minutes after tea. It is after ten o’clock.
Tuesday, July 15, 1941 – A nice
fine warm day. I washed my silken dress &c. Did not iron it. Was not in
Roy’s today; but spent an hour or so at Mrs. Margeson’s. Read some
chapters of Les Miserables, by Victor Hugo. Wrote a letter to Mrs. Annie
Miller.
Wednesday, July 16, 1941 –
Cooler and cloudy. Was in to Mrs. Henry Cox’s to see her and her new
daughter-in-law, Florence (Love). Had a nice call and met Mrs. Harrison,
mother of Mrs. Chas. Graham, who was with her; they, too, were calling.
Mrs. Findlay (nee Bessie Crocker) and Mrs. Moses (nee Nellie Crocker)
and Hattie Miller (Mrs. W. P. Miller) called here tonight; the first two
are from the West and it is years since they have been home. Mrs. Alex
Fulton and her three grand daughters, Madeline and Barbara Fulton, and
Betty Murray, also called tonight.
Thursday, July 17, 1941 –
Rained a little last night. Warm today. Just a quiet day. Mrs. Margeson
called, while I was at Edwin’s; I was in Roy’s a little while too.
Shirley came from Mrs. Sproule’s – they are home now.
Friday, July 18, 1941 – Cloudy
this a.m.; but fine afterward. Was in Roy’s this a.m., and met Mr. Allan
Bateman, a salesman with whom Roy and Glenn deal in (blank). I had not
met him before, though he has often been at the mill and at Glenn’s. Was
in Mr. Margeson’s a few minutes after tea. There is an ice cream and
strawberry social in the hall tonight; all the household are there
except Glenn and me. Wrote to F. J. B. Had a letter form Mrs. Miller
today.
Saturday, July 19, 1941 – Dark
and cloudy, with showers. This was the day of the preparatory service
for the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper to be held, or rather
commemorated tomorrow. The sermon preached was on Reference, Reverence
for God and holy things. Two people united with the church, Mrs. John
Miller, and Mr. Lloyd Anthony; Mr. Anthony was baptized. Forty persons
attended the meeting. Morris and George went to Truro after the service.
Sunday, July 20, 1941 –
Sabbath. A nice fine day. Sacrament Sabbath. Two new members names were
placed on the church roll. Mrs. John Miller and Mr. Lloyd Anthony; the
latter received the sacrament of baptism too. The exercises were very
fine. Suitable hymns were sung, and good words spoken. Quite a number
were in from South Branch. There were one hundred (blank) all together,
besides those who did not commune. Mrs. William Nelson and Isabelle and
Margaret, two of her daughters, came to have dinner with us. After they
left Morris and I got ready and went to see Aunt Martha Fleck, who is
not very well. Raymond’s wife and baby Vera Gertrude are with Aunt
Martha. We stayed to tea, and came home in time for Morris to attend Y.
P. S. C. E.
Monday, July 21, 2001 – Fine.
Thelma, Nina and Hazel went or Roy took them to camp at Folly Lake. Jean
& Ruth went with them, just to see the place; and I went to see Alda.
Roy and Jean and Ruth got back to Alda’s before six, and were home in
time for tea. Roy and Morris, managers and elders of this part of the
congregation, met with those of South Branch in the hall at the Branch,
to hold a meeting anent affairs of the congregation.
Tuesday, July 22, 1941 – Fine
and breezy. Mrs. William Pearson and I spent the p.m. together; we
called at Mrs. Margeson’s, Edna’s, and Olive’s. Had a nice time
together. It is so good to see one’s kind friends, and Mrs. Pearson is a
good friend. (Had written a letter to Fern & E. M. B. July 24th
sent it.) There was a shower for Mary E. Graham at her home in Burnside,
July 22.
Wednesday, July 23, 1941 – Fine
again. Was in Roy’s. Yesterday, the committee for the purchase of a fire
engine, Will Cox, Bev. Graham & Roy Blaikie, went to Halifax to
interview the legal powers. They left the matter there. In the evening
we had a call from Mrs. Libbie Crocker, Dennie and Duncan Graham. Duncan
is home from U. S. A. for two weeks.
Thursday, July 24, 1941 – Fine,
nice day again. Was over to Mrs. Margeson’s this a.m. Mr. Margeson is a
little better. Mr. Margeson is a little better. I had a nice time
looking at the flowers. They are so pretty. And a nice lot of them too.
In the p.m. I was to see Edna and tell her that I was not going to
Ladies’ Aid which is meeting at Mrs. Clyde Reynolds’ this afternoon. I
did not feel equal to going. I felt those strange feelings – I do not
know what makes them, but they are better tonight, and I guess it was
best to stay home. We read in the “Truro News” that Miss Helen Jane Grue
and Willard Russell Weatherby, both of (blank), were married July
(blank) by Rev. (blank). Miss Grue (or Mrs. Weatherby now) taught a week
here when Miss Douglas was in hospital last winter.
Friday, July 25, 1941 – Close
and hot this a.m. Thunder showers in the p.m. Heavy thunder and sharp
lightning. Glenn and G. R. went to Halifax this a.m. They are not home
yet. They were after cement for the kitchen at the manse: probably the
rain delayed them, as they would not wish to get the cement wet. Morris
took me to H. J. Fulton’s store at noon. Shirley, Freda and Leslie spent
the day at their Grandma Hamilton’s; Morris brought them home after tea.
There was a fire alarm this forenoon, at the manse, or rather from the
woods back of the manse. A little fire started but was quickly put out,
not making much headway. A small crowd gathered, but were not needed.
Saturday, July 26, 1941 – The
thunder and lightning storm lasted about all night, and it rained
through the day. I knitted, and read some, ironed a little and pressed
Morris’ suit – the second best. The rationing or restricted sale of gas
has begun – tonight. No purchasing gas on Sabbath or after seven p.m.
Mrs. Alex Fulton, Madeline and Barbara called in the late p.m. Miss Mary
E. Graham of Burnside, Col. Co., and Mac John MacCara Carter of
Brookfield were married at Debert at 8 o’clock by Rev. L. R. Carter,
cousin of the groom, July 26.
Sunday, July 27, 1941 –
Sabbath. Dark, damp – some showers – and chilly – no sunshine. All of us
were at church. Rev. J. M. Sproule and Rev. W. A. Ross of Springside
exchanged pulpits today. Mr. Ross preached on the Gates of Heaven, from
Rev. 2:13. He took the East gates, as time of youth, and vigor, when the
hopes are high, and powers developing; then the north gates like those
of us who are colder, more unyielding in disposition; yet when they have
chosen their way are staunch. The south gates are like impulsive, warm
hearted people, helpful to their (blank).
Monday, July 28, 1941 – Dark
this a.m.but it is fine this late p.m. Alice washed, the girls ironed;
and Alice was away this afternoon. This was Morris’ birthday; I guess it
was the same as other days; he seemed happy.
Tuesday, July 29, 1941 – Foggy
and cool this morning, but the sun shone in the p.m., and made the air
warmer. Morris and I drove out to the P. O. after dinner. He mailed some
money on S. School helps &c. After tea Mrs. Alex Fulton, Tom Fulton and
I had a drive with Tom’s car – to Mr. & Mrs. Anderson’s, Newton Mills,
where we had a nice call with them, getting home about 9 p.m. Had a
letter from J. W. in B. C.
Wednesday, July 30, 1941 –
Cloudy, with some sunshine. I sewed, and read, and knitted some. Wrote
to F. J. B. Do not know much that went on. The children were company for
a little; they are good to have.
Thursday, July 31, 1941 – A
fine day; good for making hay. Was to see Dr. MacLeod; got some
digitalis. Was in to see Mr. and Mrs. Margeson this p.m. Had a letter
from Flossie and Vivian today. Sewed a little, knit a very little & read
a little.
Friday, August 1, 1941 – Dark;
rain in the p.m. Cool & damp. Was in Roy’s this p.m. Alice washed and
waxed my bedroom floor this a.m. I finished reading Les Miserables
today. It is a good book.
Saturday, August 2, 1941 – A
very showery day; with thunder and lightning. The W. M. S. reports came
in the mail. Tom Fulton and Morris Blaikie went to Truro this afternoon.
Mrs. Alex Fulton, Madeline and Barbara, were with her. I was in Roy’s
this a.m.
Sunday, August 3, 1941 –
Sabbath. Dark, but not much rain fell. We were all at church. The number
at church was one hundred and eight; this p.m. Glenn, Alice and their
family went to Lr. Economy, to see Mrs. Wildred MacLellan. I was alone
quite a while, but Morris was around the premises, and home before tea.
Glenn & family got home quite early. Roy & Edna were at Stewiacke East a
while. Roy was not up here tonight.
Monday, August 4, 1941 – Dark,
with some slight showers. Mr. & Mrs. Margeson had has brother, Chas.
Spurgeon Margeson and wife, his widowed sister, Mrs. Ella Margeson
Nichol and a Mr. L (blank) to visit them; they went back to Berwick
today. Mr. A. L. Margeson was not able to go back with them, as they
would have liked. Glenn took Shirley to Brookfield to visit Alda; and he
went in to Truro. Had a letter from Mrs. Lloyd Sarcy.
Tuesday, August 5, 1941 –
Cloudy this a.m. but in the late p.m. the sun came out, as it had done
two or three times through the day, but this time it remained, and the
clouds cleared away. Was at Mrs. S. A. Fulton’s this afternoon; she had
a number of callers; Mrs. Viney Graham, her son Hugh and wife Olla of
the U. S. A., Mrs. Lyman Graham (Ina). Mrs. Fulton had a nice call from
Mrs. W. D. Kennedy, also Mrs. Laffin, and Mr. James Maynard and Rev. Mr.
Sproule and Eric. Nine was at Mr. Sproule’s today.
Wednesday, August 6, 1941 –
Some such a day as yesterday, only more sunshine. Had a nice quiet happy
birthday. Harry & Nellie, June, Lee and Mary were to call in the eve.
Mr. & Mrs. Margeson were taken to Eastville to see Mrs. Margeson’s folk,
by Olive, Edwin’s wife, and Morris brought them home after tea. We were
happy to have Mr. Sproule to tea. It is high time I retired. I had
cards, letters and presents from friends, and my dear ones.
Thursday, August 7, 1941 – A
good hay day. Our folks began haying. Herman Johnson is getting it into
the barn.
Friday, August 8, 1941 – They
hauled wood some of the time today. Mrs. J. W. and Miss Irma Benvie
spent the p.m. here, and we had a very nice time. Mr. Sproule came up to
get Shirley to go down to help them prepare for his mother, who expects
to be at the manse tomorrow. Mrs. Alex and Madeline & Barbara & Kenneth
called outdoors. Had letters from Sister Edith and Sister Mary, also
birthday card from Mary. Morris had a letter from E. M. B.
Saturday, August 9, 1941 – A
nice fine hay day. I sewed some, cut some patchwork and read a little.
Sent a letter to E. M. B. & C. R. B. today; Morris had one from Edith
yesterday, also we had cards from F. J. B. today. Edna was in twice
today. I guess Morris has gone away tonight, he and George.
Sunday, August 10, 1941 – A
rainy day. Mr. Marshall of Brookfield exchanged pulpits with Mr. Sproule
today. He preached about the church – “Upon the rock will I build my
church.” A very good number of people were out to hear the service.
Glenn and Nina were to see Mr. Esson Brown, who is not very well – not
able to work. They were there to tea. Roy was up here in the evening.
Dr. J. M. Stewart and Mrs. Stewart had a son born today.
Monday, August 11, 1941 – Dark
this morning, but the sun came out, and Herman Johnson mowed some. Was
in Mrs. Margeson’s twice this p.m. Ruby Chase was here top tea. Shirley
came home form Mr. Sproule’s; Mrs. Sproule, and party, who attended the
Berwick Camp meetings, returned in the early evening yesterday. Sent a
letter to F. J. B. & Aileen today.
Tuesday, August 12, 1941 – Dark
morning, and rainy a lot of the day. Mr. Retson, milk tester, came to H.
P. Cox’s, bringing Edith Goodwin here; she and Shirley were at Mrs.
Cox’s and made up his (blank). Edith and Morris are at Cross Roads now,
seeing about Edith getting a boarding place, as she will teach there
next year (D. V.)
Wednesday, August 13, 2001 –
Rather cloudy this morning but the weather cleared, and it is fine and
cold tonight. Edith Goodwin was here last night; she and Shirley did
some booking (for Mr. Retson), minister, this p.m., and then the three
of them had a drive over Musq. way, while Mr. Retson was doing work
related to his duties as a milk tester &c. Then, he and Edith left for
Stewiacke East. With us to dinner also were Brother John D. Webster, his
daughter Margaret (Mrs. Ralph Anderson) and her little four year old
girl Beverly The also left for home soon after the others. The Y. L. C.
had their picnic on Philip Cox’s farm; I hardly know where. Alice and
Shirley did not go. Mrs. Alex Fulton had a letter from Vancouver telling
her of her daughter Anne, Mrs. F. H. Ratcliffe, having had a successful
operation for goiter, in the hospital in Vancouver, B. C.
Thursday, August 14, 1941 –
Quite a good hay day. They, Herman Johnson &c., were working at our hay
today. Alice and the little ones went to Mrs. Hamilton’s to spend the
day. In the p.m. Roy took us, Edna, Mrs. Alex Fulton and I , to Mrs.
Martin Smith’s to the W. M. S. meeting. There were only Mrs. Smith
herself, Mrs. W. D. Kennedy, Mrs. Sproule, Mrs. Alex Fulton, Mrs. Roy
Blaikie & myself there. After the meeting was over, and it was a very
interesting one, Mrs. Sproule gave a talk on part of the camp meetings
at Berwick and, with other exercises of the regular business, the ladies
left for home. I stayed to tea; Mrs. Smith and I had a nice talk and,
altogether, it was a nice visit. They are all so kind. Glenn came and
took me home. Alice and Shirley were at Evening Auxiliary at Thelma’s.
Friday, August 15, 1941 – They
finished mowing but did not get the hay all in the barn. Was in Roy’s
this a.m.; sent away the money for the study book today; in the p.m. the
Ladies Aid met at Mrs. S. A. Fulton’s. It was a very pleasant meeting;
but the one yesterday (W. M. S.) was a good one too: the meeting today
was larger though: Mrs. Fulton, the hostess, Misses Jennie Miller, and
Schurman, clerks at H. J. Fulton’s store, Miss Mabel Fulton, Mrs. J. D.
Cox, Mrs. Sproule Sr., Mr. and Mrs. Sproule, minister and wife, Mrs.
Butcher, Mrs. Philip Cox, Mrs. Alex Fulton, Mrs. Frank L. Fulton, Mrs.
Guy Graham, Mrs. Roy Blaikie, Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond, and myself. Roy took
us and came for us.
Saturday, August 16, 1941 –
Rainy; they just worked in the mill half a day, it was so rainy. In the
p.m. Morris and I motored to Aunt E. Woodworth’s; Fred came from Halifax
to spend the weekend with his wife and son Alan, while his mother (Aunt
Edith) went on a trip to Lr. Economy – to visit the Moirs. It rained
most of the way, sometimes quite heavily; however, we, after calling in
Truro to see Aunt Martha Fleck, who is ill at Mrs. W. D. Isnor’s, Duke
St., but rather better now, went on and reached Economy at a quarter to
six p.m. We had a fine evening and retired about eleven o’clock. Lloyd
Fleming is in the C. C. Hospital, having been hurt with a car at
Blaikie’s garage.
Sunday, August 17, 1941 –
Sabbbath. As rainy as yesterday. We had a quiet time this a.m. Mrs.
Moir attended the S. S. of which she is Superintendent, and then
returned; Miss Saidee Graham, Mrs. Moir’s sister, was at the Moir’s
spending her vacation, far from her school in Saskatoon, Sask. We had a
nice quiet time during the p.m. and left for home about the middle of
the p.m. as the rain still continued. We had a most enjoyable time; one
thing we prized was a sing song, with Saidee at the piano. Edith and I
could not join in the singing, but loved to listen to the others. We
reached Stewiacke in time to have tea, then drove home, were we arrived
8:15. The rain continued nearly all the way. Glenn & Alice took Mr. &
Mrs. A. P. Fulton & Kennety & Madeline & baby Sylvia to Port Greville,
leaving Mrs. Fulton, Madeline and baby for a visit; the others returning
home; they got home a while after we did.
Monday, August 18, 1941 – A
nice fine day. Was in Roy’s a while this a.m. Alice washed and we ironed
this p.m. Was in Mrs. Margeson’s after tea. Georgie and Morely Bently
were in Truro this p.m. Thelma was here tonight.
Tuesday, August 19, 1941 – Fine
and cool. Mr. & Mrs. C. A. Blaikie, Mrs. C. W. Mattatall and Gail Joan
came, and visited us, and Roy’s and Edwin’s today, remaining tonight.
Mr. Sproule called; anent the picnic, which must be postponed on account
of the wet weather; and wet grounds. Had a letter from Mrs. Annie Miller
this week.
Wednesday, August 20, 1941 –
Dark and cloudy. Not rainy tho’. The folks from Truro came to the
conclusion that they would return about 3:30 o’clock. They thought they
might call at Brookfield. Mrs. Alex Fulton called in the evening. Tom
took her home. Nina is making a visit to Mr. R. C. Barrett’, with Amy
Barrett; she was there all night.
Thursday, August 21, 1941 – A
fine day. Warmer than yesterday. Ruby Chase was here with Shirley all
night, and went home in the a.m. Sent Morris insurance. The W. M. Study
Book came today. After dinner Morris motored me to Mrs. Arnold Woods’
where we spent a very pleasant afternoon. Met and saw some friends and
new acquaintances at this home in the evening. Viz, Mr. & Mrs. Russell
Bentley, Mass.; Mrs. Howard D. Fisher & Miss Nan, of Middle Stewiacke;
also saw W. P. Miller & little David (blank), Mrs. George Bentley and
son Morley and Charlie Cox, Miss Audry & Mr. Richard (Buddy) Wood.
Morris came for me and we returned home.
Friday, August 22, 1941 --
Another fine day. Foggy in the a.m. Mr. and Mrs. Ray Fleming (Edna’s
brother) of Franklin, Mass., are visiting at Edna’s (Mrs. Roy Blaikie).
Was talking to them a little while today. Mrs. Margeson called. Nina and
Freda were at Mrs. Hamilton’s today. Shirley was showing me her material
for Y. P. S. C. E.; she is to be the leader on Sabbath, Aug. 24th.
Probably it will be the last time for some time that she will lead in
the hall in Upper Stewiacke, as she is going away soon – to New Glasgow,
to enter the Aberdeen Hospital there, to train as a nurse. Sent a letter
to E. M. B. & C. R. B.
Saturday, August 23, 1941 –
Another fine day. Wind cool. Mr. and Mrs. Ray Fleming went to Truro,
from Roy’s today; they leave for their home in U. S. A. the first of
next week; having had a very pleasant holiday in their old home places
in N. S. The school had a picnic this p.m. Quite a number of people
attended it. The girls, Leslie, Tom & Morris, were there from our house.
After the picnic, Morris and George went to Truro. I was at Mrs.
Margeson’s a while.
Sunday, August 24, 1941 – A
cool wind, but fine day; sun warm. We were all at church this a.m. Mr.
Sproule preached a sermon on faith; scripture reading was on parts of
the eleventh and twelfth chapters of Hebrews. Mrs. Percy Goodwin and her
daughter Edith came to church; Percy (Mr. Goodwin) remained in the house
resting until we all returned from church. In the p.m. Edith’s father
and mother took her to Mr. Fred Rutherford’s, at Cross Roads, in which
School Section she is to teach school next year (D. V.). They – Mr. &
Mrs. Goodwin, came to Roy’s after having left Edith at Mr. Rutherford’s
where she plans to board, while teaching. The Goodwin’s left for home
(Stewiacke East) about nine p.m. The Y. P. S. C. E. are presenting
Shirley Blaikie and Harold Deyarmond with Bibles tonight. The
presentation was made at the manse. Glenn and Alice were present.
Monday, August 25, 1941 – This
was a fine day after the clouds scattered, and the sun came out. As
usual Alice washed and I got my part of the clothes ironed: also put
away. School began. Glenn and G. R. Deyarmond took three loads of lumber
to Brookfield; they are loading cars. Mrs. Charlie Peppard, her daughter
Jean, who is an R. N., and son John Willis, were here a while this
evening. They are nice people – good neighbors. Had a letter from D. F.
today. Harold Deyarmond went to New Glasgow. We heard of Roy MacMay
being married to a Miss (blank) Tracy – Wrote to 435 Walker Ave.,
Ashland, Oregon. Miss Evelyn Ralston is the teacher here this year.
Tuesday, August 26, 1941 –
Another cloudy morning, followed by a fine day. A nice evening too. I
sewed at patchwork and knitted a little; and in the p.m. I went to F. B.
Cox’s store, and got a few luxuries – fruit and candy: after tea, Morris
drove me to South Village to see Mrs. Annie Miller. We had a nice call,
getting home before nine p.m. Sent a letter to Mrs. Bruce Moir, Lr.
Economy.
Wednesday, August 27, 1941 – A
fog shower this a.m., then cloudy, and in the afternoon, there was
sunshine. They were loading cars in Brookfield today. Was in Roy’s in
the p.m.; also to see Olive a while. Mrs. Margeson called after tea.
Sewed some.
Thursday, August 28, 1941 – A
cold wind blew all day, and now, at evening, it has fallen. Trust there
will not be frost – as the gardens are needing heat to bring them along.
Nellie & party were at Roy’s a little while in the p.m. Charlie &
Bessie, Gail and Gail Joan and Charlie Mattatall, (Gail’s husband), were
here this afternoon, and part of them at Roy’s to tea. Two young ladies
were with them, Miss Mildred Saunders, U. S. A., and Doris Downing of
Elmsvale. I was at Ladies’ Aid at Mrs. Martin Fulton’s; went with Mrs.
Margeson. Morris and George are going to a dance at Middle Stewiacke
tonight. Sent F. J. B. her old diary, kept in years gone by.
Friday, August 29, 1941 – We
hear of frost being over things last night, though it apparently did no
harm to our garden. Mrs. Hamilton was here part of the afternoon, and to
tea. She walked here; and Morris motored her home in the early eve. Edna
was in. Just a common day; sewed some and lost my knitting needle in the
grass. Mrs. Margeson was over a little while.
Saturday, August 30, 1941 –
Wet, quite a heavy rain this p.m. Had letters from both Flossie and
Edith today. I worked at a crib quilt – got the top finished. In the
evening Tom took me out home to see them there, and to have tea. Had a
nice visit with them. Mr. Chas. Peppard and son John W. and daughter
Jean were there this evening. Putnam and Tom Fulton came in to the store
tonight, and I came home with them.
Sunday, August 31, 1941 –
Sabbath. Rather a nice day; some sunshine and though there were clouds,
yet no rain. We were all at church; and there were one hundred and ten
people attended the service. Morris took Mr. and Mrs. Margeson to
Eastville; immediately after S. School – before he had his dinner; then
came home, ate his dinner and went to the Branch to church with Mr. and
Mrs. Sproule, returning home after tea. Alice, Glenn and family drove
down to Aunt Edith Woodworth’s to see her before Shirley went to New
Glasgow to enter the Aberdeen Hospital to train as a nurse. Geo., Themla,
and Ruth (just minutes) were here in the p.m. The family returned from
Stewiacke in time for supper, and the girls & Morris went to Y. P. S. C.
E. Mr. Sproule’s sermon was preached from Eccleiastes 5:9, and the last
two clauses of the 19th verse. It was a good sermon – on
“labor and sharing.”
Monday, September 1, 1941 –
Dark with some little showers, this forenoon, but the clothes (week’s
wash) dried pretty well; we got them all ironed. In the p.m. Flora and
Percy Goodwin, and their daughter Edith, Eva and Harold Steele, and
Ralph Woodworth came; they had motored through Musquodoboit, and to
Cross Roads, where Edith teaches school, heaving her there. They then
came here where we enjoyed their company, part of them being at the
three houses at different times. They left for Stewiacke about ten
p.m.; it was raining quite a lot at that time, I guess.
Tuesday, September 2, 1941 –
Dark showery. Rained some last night. Cold and windy. Sewed some this
forenoon; went to see Mrs. D. Kennedy this p.m. Glenn, Shirley and
Leslie were going to Musquodoboit to get a parcel for Shirley; and I
went as far as Mr. Kennedy’s and was there until Morris came for me
tonight. Edna and Alda were here when I came home. This is Shirley’s
last day home, before going to begin her training. I trust she may be
good and happy; well, and a true, fine woman, loved and valued by all
with she comes in contact.
Wednesday, September 3, 1941 –
A nice fine day; chilly wind tho’. Alice, Shirley and Glenn set out for
the Aberdeen Hospital, New Glasgow, about nine o’clock a.m. They arrived
before dinner, leaving for home at one forty p.m. Shirley was brave
about their leaving. She is further from home tonight than she ever was
overnight before. May she feel comfort and peace in her young heart, and
very near to the Father who watches over her, and directs us all. (Rev.)
Roy Vessey and his wife (nee Margaret Miller) called this p.m. Tom
Fulton is away – probably home. Vivian J. Boomer, my granddaughter,
whose home is in Red Deer, Alberta, was to go into the Holy Cross
Hospital in Calgary today too. I trust she is not too lonely tonight;
and her mother – she will miss her girl even as Alice does. Edna was up
a while this p.m. We had a nice time.
Thursday, September 4, 1941 – A
lovely fine day, with chilly wind. I peeled some apples; and shelled
some peas and beans for tomorrow’s dinner. We had no callers that I
know. Glenn and G. R. were trucking. I wrote to F. J. B. & family.
Friday, September 5, 1941 –
Cold wind as usual; raining some tonight. Just sewed and knitted a
little today; also shelled some peas and ‘nibbled’ a few beans. The
atmosphere of our home was pleasant; we had a letter from Shirley; she
seemed content, as we all home she will be. Mrs. Margeson called, and we
had a nice time with her. Morris is at choir practice tonight.
Saturday, September 6, 1941 –
Dark and cloudy with signs of rain. Nothing happened here; anyway
nothing of which I heard. We saw Mr. and Mrs. Fred Rutherford and Miss
Edith Goodwin go by walking this afternoon. Glenn and G. R. were
trucking; Glenn & Alice are at the store as usual on Saturday night.
Sunday, September 7, 1941 –
Sabbath. Cloudy this a.m. but before noon the sun came out and it was
warm and sunshiny. All of us attended church. The sermon was from I
Kings Capt.19: the last part of the thirtieth verse: “And he Elijah
repaired the altar that was broken down.” The altar, or much of the
earnest efforts of those who try to live the lives which they should
live, is in great need of repair: pleasure, or peoples’ own way, has
broken down much of the true worship of God. People are adopting
Hollywood life, and ways which are far from what pleases God. Serving
the devil and walking in his ways. Edith Goodwin came here this p.m.,
and she and George Blaikie (Timmy as they call him) were here to tea.
Nina was at the manse to tea.
Monday, September 8, 1941 –
Alice washed and ironed. I tied the knots in the crib quilt which I made
today, and took it out of the quilting frames.
Tuesday, September 9, 1941 – A
cloudy day. Mrs. Alex Fulton called this p.m. and before she went home,
Mr. and Mrs. Chas. A. Blaikie called with Mr. J. W. MacKay; they were on
their way to Burnside and invited me to go with them. So we went to J.
W. MacKay’s, had supper, and went away. Mrs. J. W. MacKay is not at all
well. She is very nice and gave us a warm welcome. Roy MacKay, their
son, has recently been married, and we met his bride, the former Vada
Tracey, who has been living in Middle Stewiacke for some 5 years. Also
Lois E. MacKay, Roy’s sister, who is home to attend her mother for a few
weeks. From J. Willis MacKay’s, we drove to Martin Johnson’s, where I
got out of the car, and went into the house, and visited with them. Mr.
and Mrs. Chas. Blaikie (Charlie and Bessie) drove a short distance
further; to visit Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Johnson, remaining all night, and
until after dinner on Wednesday. In the forenoon I went up the hill
where the small cemetery is. It was a difficult thing to climb up; and I
think more so to come down. There are not many sleeping in that little
graveyard, but they are lying near to the homes of loved ones who will
sometime sleep among them, as far as we can think. In the p.m. we
motored over the hill, and called to see Mrs. P. W. Graham who has not
been well; has high blood pressure, but is able to be about. Then we
came to hour house, had supper; had some callers, Mr. and Mrs. Sproule,
Bernard and Geo. Sproule and Miss Jean Peppard, R. N. C. C. Archibald, a
specialist (eye, ear & throat) of Truro, is dead, in his 64th
year.
Wednesday, September 10, 1941 –
A pretty nice, fine warm day, shower or showers in the night – some rain
fell.
Thursday, September 11, 1941 –
Cooler, cloudy. Chas. and Bessie are here, we are glad to say, to be
with us another night. I was in Roy’s. Bessie and Charlie are at all
three houses by times. Roy’s, Glenn’s and Edwin’s. Glenn took Edna and
me to Mrs. Abram Bentley’s at Otter Brook to attend the Auxiliary of the
W. M. S. which met there this afternoon. Roy brought Mrs. Alex Fulton,
Mrs. E. G. Graham and myself home. Choir practice tonight.
Friday, September 12, 1941 –
Sunshine and cold wind. Charlie and Bessie Blaikie went home after
dinner. I went to W. D. Kennedy’s, called at Mr. Sproule’s to see Mrs.
Sproule Senior; had nice calls at all the places; went back home and had
tea with Mrs. S. A. Fulton and her boarders. Morris came for me.
Saturday, September 13, 1941 –
Quite a fine day. Cold wind tho’. Was to Mrs. Margeson’s this p.m.
Shirley came home tonight on the bus to Brookfield, then Nina and her
father went to bring her home, whence they arrived about 9:30 or about
that time. Mr. E. D. J. Snow of Middle Musquodoboit, Mrs. Arthur S.
Stevens, Truro, and Dr. C. C. Archibald of Truro too, died this month.
Dr. Archibald, born in Musq. 63 years ago, was a specialist in eye, ear
and throat diseases. Had a letter from Mrs. Annie Miller today, Mrs.
Margeson was in yesterday.
Sunday, September 14, 1941 –
Sabbath. No rain, but cloudy. All of us were at church; there were one
hundred and twenty-two people who attended church today. Mr. and Mrs.
Elroy MacLean (nee Bertha Peppard) made their appearance at church here,
since their marriage Sept. 3rd, 1941. Morris had tea at Mr.
E. Grant Cox’s. We had supper early, so they could take Shirley back to
New Glasgow in plenty of time. All Glenn’s family went & Themla. I was
in Mr. Margeson’s a few minutes after tea. Morris went to Y. P. S. C. E.
They got home in good time. Roy was up a while.
Monday, September 15, 1941 –
Dark this a.m.; it rained in the night and there were some little
showers today; but there was enough drouth to dry the clothes. Had a
letter from F. J. B. & one from Vivian to her mother was enclosed. We
had a call from J. A. Lockhart, Mrs. C. H. Barnhill, Mr. and Mrs. Harry
Rogers, S. (blank), Mr. & Mrs. Millburn (blank) this afternoon; the
Rogers and Millburns are home for a visit, expect to start back on
Thursday. Mrs. Frank Johnson, Cross Roads, Upper Stewiacke, died today.
She had been an invalid a long time.
Tuesday, September 16, 1941 –
Rather a nice day. Dark morning, but nice p.m. I ironed my part of the
wash this a.m. Wrote some, knit a little; ate my dinner; and Glenn took
Leslie and me to visit Mrs. Hamilton and Wilmer. Leslie stayed a while
but went home before tea. Mrs. Charlie Peppard was in Mrs. Hamilton’s in
the evening. Jean has not gone away yet. Mrs. Alex was in. Tom was down
to the village in his car, Morris was with him and they called for me. I
had a nice time with Mrs. Hamilton. So passed a peaceful and happy day.
Wednesday, September 17, 1941 –
Dark and damp; shower early this a.m. Was in Roy’s this a.m., an hour or
two. They showed me some of Jean’s pretty clothes, quilts and so on.
They re kind to me, as all my children are. In the p.m. I was in Mr.
Margeson’s a while. Tom and Glenn were going to spend the evening at W.
D. Kennedy’s. Wrote to F. J. B. this week. Morris took Irene Benvie and
her father J. W. Benvie to Truro. Irene works in the C. C. Hospital.
Mrs. Frank Johnson was burned today; funeral at the home. She was an
invalid for many years.
Thursday, September 18, 1941 –
A fine day; cool wind tonight. Brother John Webster and his wife,
Bertha, were here this p.m. She stayed while he attended Jas. Fulton’s
auction, which was held this p.m. Mr. Ernest Archibald, Truro, was out
here with a washer (machine) for Alice this afternoon. She is to keep it
until next week, on trial. Charlie Blaikie was with him. John and Bertha
went away after Charlie and Mr. Archibald left. I had a lovely little
call from Jean Blaikie this eve. Tomorrow is the day of her wedding to
Sidney Graham Cox; Sept. 19th. I trust they may have
happiness, and prosperity. They are both nice young people.
Friday, September 19, 1941 –
Rather cloudy most of the day; but there was a little sunshine, and it
did not rain. Sidney and Jean went away about three o’clock. They, with
Alda and Eldon, had it planned, to drive to Rev. J. K. MacInnes’, 28
Laurie St., Truro, and be married. Then go on a little trip. They chose
their calendars, Roy and Glenn and their wives, today. I did not see
them of course. There is a sing song, composed of people from Middle and
Upper Stewiacke, held in the hall tonight. Morris and Nina are there
from here; I do not know whether Glenn went or not. One of Mrs. A. P.
Fulton’s sisters died today. She had been ill for some time. Her name
was Mrs. Nelson Pettis.
Saturday, September 20, 1941 –
A very heavy frost last night, but a nice fine day today. Alice, with
Nina and Freda helping her, was gathering in her garden. Saw Annie Wood
& Audrey a few minutes; they were going by. A party, Mrs. Bella Hamilton
& son Albert, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Bustin (nee Verna Hamilton) and Mrs.
Maggie MacKay, called – did not get out of the car; but we enjoyed to
see them a little while.
Sunday, September 21, 1941 –
Sabbath. A fine day again. No church or S. School. Mrs. (Dr.) D. Mackie
called; she was a school mate for a term here long ago. In the passing
years she has been married, become a mother of three children, and
widowed: her home is far off in Vancouver, to which she plans to return
in the near future. In the p.m. Harry and Nellie, Lee and Mary, were to
see us a while, going home early. Morris took Mrs. Sproule senior, and
Nina, to hear the Caledon Choir sing in Middle Stewiacke Church and they
went to Y. P. S. C. E. in the evening. Was in bed with rheumatism.
Monday, September 22, 1941 –
Another nice fine day. I got up before dinner but was quiet as I am not
all well yet. Morris and Tom got their gas tanks filled up tonight. Sent
a letter to Mrs. Miller. Mrs. Alex Fulton called tonight. She brought me
a treat. She is good to me. Thelma was up tonight – we had a nice time.
There are many pleasant times in life.
Tuesday, September 23, 1941 –
Another good day; quite fine all day. They threshed our grain today.
Fred Power’s thresher; his helper was Rufus Taylor. They, two, were all
the extra ones we had to supper. The threshed the oats as they hauled
them to the barn. The bride and groom returned this p.m., about four
o’clock; they went to Sidney’s home for (blank) and then returned,
receiving a serenading in the evening. I wrote to E. M. B. today.
Wednesday, September 24, 1941 –
Another fine day. We are having our promised harvest now. Olive was in
this morning – did not sit down, but did us good by her bright face,
friendly words. G. R. Deyarmond was working today. Jean Cox (Mrs. Sidney
Cox) made a call this p.m. and, as her calls are so kind and thoughtful,
they give much pleasure. Then Mrs. Sproule, senior, came and stayed to
tea. We were very glad to see her. It has been a nice day. Sent E. M.
B.’s letter to her.
Thursday, September 25, 1941 –
Fine again. Wind cool. George took me to spend the day at the manse. We
arrived about 11 a.m. Had a nice day with the two Mrs. Sproules. The
minister is away on his holiday – now is at Sambro; but has been and
hopes (D. V.) to be several more. Mrs. S. A. Fulton is left without
help, and Mrs. (Rev.) Sproule, was over with her every chance she could
get. Mrs. Fulton has two boarders, is old, and has not health and
strength to get along alone. Morris came for me in the evening.
Friday, September 26, 1941 – A
shower in the night; but a fine day. Leslie’s knee is sore; but getter
than it was yesterday. There is liquid around the knee cap. He has to be
still. Lies on the sofa. Our Eaton order arrived & was o.k. Amy Barrett
called, but was not here to tea. I was at Mrs. Edson Cox’s this evening;
went when Morris went to choir practice. Had a nice evening. Saw Doris
Fulton at Mrs. Cox’s, also Mrs. Raymond Stewart.
Saturday, September 27, 1941 –
A lovely fine, cool day. Some wind. Glenn and G. R. Deyarmond were to
Truro or Brookfield, or perhaps both, today: hauling lumber. Had a
letter from Shirley – she is well and happy. Was in Mr. Margeson’s
today. They are as usual. Morris went to Brookfield to meet the
minister who is supplying the pulpit for tomorrow, Rev. Ian MacKinnon.
Started about seven p.m. Was home fairly early. Leslie’s knee seems
better, but not well yet.
Sunday, September 28, 1941 –
Sabbath. Another beautiful autumn day. The Stewiacke Valley is clad in
its fairest colors now; with the thankful feelings of grateful hearts of
those who abide in that Valley, our dwelling place is truly blest. The
harvests are, on average, quite plentiful; and there are peace and
quietness in our midst; so different from those lands across the sea.
Our minister supplying the pulpit today was Rev. Ian MacKinnon; his text
was from St. John 12:26. “Where I am there shall also my servant be.”
Also there were two other parts of verses, bearing on this text. Viz St.
John 14:2 or 3 (parts). “Where I am there ye may be also.” (3rd)
(2) “I go to prepare a place for you.” I think the sermon was on the
certainty of life after death; and these texts were some of the
assurances of that life. It was a discourse to which one liked to
listen. All of us were at church except Glenn and Leslie; his leg is not
well yet; but is better. Morris and I were to see Mrs. Miller; and she
had her grandson (Chas. Miller), and Mr. and Mrs. Luther Miller and
Edna, too, while we were there. We drove home around by South Village.
Tom Fulton took his father to Brookfield to see Alex Fields, Mr. Alex
Fulton’s (Tom’s father) sister. Glenn took Leslie to the Dr. this eve.
and he said that he might attend school tomorrow. Morris and the two
ladies at the manse, are in Middle Stewiacke, where Miss Dulcie Cooke,
Mrs. Sproule’s sister, is speaking tonight. (Roy took Dr. I. F.
MacKinnon to Brookfield last night.)
Monday, September 29, 1941 –
There was a little rain last night, but today turned into a fine day;
rather cold; we had a fire in the furnace, a good part of the day. Alice
washed, and we got the clothes dried & ironed. Was at Roy’s a short time
today and also at Edwin’s. Had a nice time with Olive. There is a shower
for Jean and Sid tonight, but I am not there – not often attending
functions at night. Had a letter from F. J. B. today & some snaps – good
ones. Mrs. S. A. Fulton fell, and hurt herself quite badly, yesterday or
Saturday. They sent for the ambulance, and she was taken to the C. C.
Hospital.
Tuesday, September 30, 1941 – A
lively fine day. We, Edna, Mrs. Alex Fulton, Mrs. J. D. Cox, Mrs. W. D.
Kennedy, Mrs. Emma Butcher, Mrs. Alvin Carter (nee Ada Henry,
Brookfield, Mrs. Butcher’s sister), Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond, Mrs. Lester
Deyarmond & Terry, Mrs. Edson Cox and myself were quilting a couple of
quilts at the hall; and it was a very abundant and appetizing meal, with
much variety. Mrs. David Kennedy was here this p.m., and had a visit
with Alice. After I came home, we had a nice visit; after tea Glenn &
Alice took her home. She is a good friend. So many people are.
Wednesday, October 1, 1941 –
Rained some, turned fine in the p.m. Tom Fulton and Morris Blaikie
motored me to my sister Edith’s after tea tonight.
Thursday, October 2, 1941 – A
nice fine day. Edith not very well, but we put in the day very quietly.
J. H. Cox was in this a.m., and Donalda Cox was in with the mail after
school.
Friday-Saturday, October 3-4, 1941
– Fine but rainy in the p.m. Edith was lying on the sofa most of the
time today; she is very ill. Dr. Havey was here twice today. He cannot
get my sister relieved; she suffers but murmurs not. Mrs. Chas. Meadows
and Mrs. Page Tupper were here – in the evening Flora & Percy Goodwin
came & among them they moved a bed downstairs into the front room, and
Mrs. Page Tupper sat up with sister Edith all night; she vomited every
little while, all night. Then the Dr. (Havey) came, and he and Mrs.
Tupper took her to the C. C. Hospital, where she is tonight. Harold &
Eva Steel came and they called at the hospital to see her; they had just
let her rest. This has been a lovely fine warm day. Flora has telephoned
to them at Roy’s: also at Fred’s in Halifax &c. Am sleeping in Edith
Goodwin’s bed tonight. Came up with G. B. Cox. How I long for my sister
to recover; but God knows what is best. Had a letter from E. M. B. Mr. &
Mrs. Richard Sibley called at P. R. Goodwin’s this p.m. – just as Eva
and Harold arrived. (Note in margin: Burnham Cox took me to Percy
Goodwin’s after the Dr. left for Truro. Evan & Harold Steel came to
Percy’s from the hospital; they left Amherst as soon as they got ready
after the telephone message.
Sunday, October 5, 1941 –
Sabbath. A very good day, cloudy; and rainy at night. Between the hours
of three and four a.m., the telephone rang and Flora & Percy got up and
received a message from Miss Jessie Fields, saying that Edith was
sinking fast. Eva and Harold, Flora, Percy and I, hurried in to our
clothes and got into Harold’s car and motored to the C. C. Hospital,
where we learned that our dear one had passed away. Flora and I went to
look at her; her suffering is over. Percy and Harold made arrangements
for circumstances, and we returned to Percy’s. (This sentence follows
next, but was it was later stroked out with a pencil: Mr. & Mrs. William
Brenton and daughter, Freda, were there when we came home, but did not
remain long.) After we came home, and before Mr., Mrs. and Miss Brenton
came, Eva, Flora and I motored to the old home, whither Fred, Bessie and
little Alan had gone (they came early from Halifax) after calling at
Percy’s earlier. Harold Steel had gone with them. Harold came back with
Flora and me, but Eva stayed with Bessie until Fred came home form
Halifax, whither he was gone, to return the car, which he had borrowed,
to bring Bessie & Allan up. After dinner, in the p.m., Mr. and Mrs. C.
A. Blaikie, Mr. and Mrs. H. L. Blaikie, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Blaikie arrived
for calls; also, later, Mrs. Geo. Miller, Mrs. Jesse Sharples, and Dr.
Archibald came in, and made a short call. Before tea we all departed for
our homes. Roy, Edna & I via Brookfield where we had tea at Eldon’s and
Alda’s: then came home, arriving early.
Note: A
handwritten copy of following announcement was included at the back of
the journal of Elmira Blaikie dated July 27, 1942, to Dec. 31, 1942. A
typewritten copy of the same tribute was found among letters kept by
Morris Blaikie. The tribute was apparently read on the day of Edith
Woodworth’s death at Sunday services in Stewiacke.
Mrs.
Woodworth
Tribute to her memory – St. Andrew’s Church, Stewiacke
Sacrament Sunday – October 5th, 1941
It is my
sad duty this morning to break to you the news of the sudden passing of
one who has long been a member of our church, Mrs. Woodworth, Senior.
Though she was content to live quietly and alone, her life was not in
any degree uneventful. She had been married many years ago by Ralph
Connor, whose friendship she knew in the far-off Rockies. She walked her
quiet way among us, but those near her who knew her best, well knew of
her goodness, her humility, her love and her devotion to our church.
I think
she has passed on as she would have wished. She could never bear to
think of being a burden on anyone. Though love called her to leave her
little home, she did not wish it. And now, as quietly as she lived, she
has been taken from us. Nor would she have wished it otherwise.
It is
not without significance that she passed away on the morning of our
autumn sacrament. Our fellowship is not thereby broken. And who are we
to say but what, as this morning, here in this church, we partake, she,
for her part, as our Lord Himself hat said, “doth drink it new in the
Kingdom of God.”
Rev. Dr.
Frank E. Archibald
Pastor of St. Andrews Church, Stewiacke
Monday, October 6, 1941 –
Rained in the night, but not very much today; the clothes dried on the
line. There was not school, but has not been for three days last week,
and today. We hope Miss Ralston will be able to teach by Wednesday. Mrs.
Edith Woodworth’s funeral is to be on Wednesday. Glenn, and Hazel
Deyarmond went to Truro. Hazel was home for the weekend, as Glenn took
her back. I guess he had an errand too. I must get ready for bed soon.
Mrs. Alex Fulton was in to see us this p.m. She is a comfort. Her kindly
words & ways uplift one. But Faith keeps is through the dark hour of
sadness. And ‘On Beyond’ we shall see “all things work together for
good to them that love God.” So we must “Gird on our armor and keep back
the tears.”
Tuesday, October 7, 1941 –
Alice and children were at her mother’s today. Mrs. Hamilton is not very
well, and Alice was helping her. The teacher is still ill, so Nina and I
kept house. Sent a letter addressed to E. M. B.; written to both Flossie
and Edith Boomer.
Wednesday, October 8, 1941 –
There was a severe thunder storm in the night – but the rain ceased this
a.m., and the sun came out and it was a lovely afternoon. Roy, Edna,
Thelma and George (and I) went to our dear one’s funeral, which was held
in the church in Stewiacke after a short service at the house. There
were very nice flowers. Dr. F. E. Archibald preached the sermon, but
only heard the last part well. It was Tennyson’s “Crossing the Bar.”
Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,
But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.
Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;
For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crossed the bar.
They
sang the hymn, “When on my day of life the night is falling” & “We
cannot think of them as dead” (Hymnary 178), as she had said one time
she would like that first hymn to be sung at her funeral. Also sang, “O
God our help in ages past,” and the other “We cannot think of them as
dead,” by Fredrick L. Hosmer). There was a large number of people
present. Edith Woodworth was laid to rest in the Pine Grove Cemetery,
beside the husband of her youth. The lovely afternoon, and the gorgeous
beauty of the autumn leaves on the maples, blended with other colors
among the trees, and the quiet assembly gathered to lay her in her last
resting place, made it a sad, yet sweet occasion. We came home, Morris,
Mrs. Alex Fulton and I were together. Roy and Edna, Thelma and George;
Glenn and Alice with Mrs. (Rev.) Sproule; all came home before supper.
Those coming from other places: Mr. & Mrs. Frank Abrahamson, Mrs. Grace
Nichols, Mrs. G. B. Redden, and little son Bruce, from Timmins (the
three first from Southbridge, Mass., & Scarboro, Maine). Mr. & Mrs.
Harold Steel and little Joyce from Amherst, and Corporal Fred S.
Woodsworth, from Halifax (518 Robie St.). Morris went hunting for an
hour or so, and got a partridge. It was nice that all Edith’s living
children were present at the funeral.
Thursday, October 9,1941 –
Cloudy most of the day. A quiet time: was in Roy’s, Edwin’s and Mr.
Margeson’s this a.m. It is nice to think I can walk so well; knees are
so well, no soreness in them. I did not go to W. M. S. Mrs. Alex Fulton
called on her way home form W. M. S. Morris went to choir practice. Roy,
and J. W. Benvie were laying the linoleum in the manse kitchen tonight.
Mr. Sproule has not yet returned from his vacation. Mrs. Geo. Bentley
and Mrs. A. Wood called in the evening. Jean (Mrs. S. G. Cox) spent a
little while with me.
Friday, October 10, 1941 –
Dark, but not rainy, tho’ the air was damp sometimes. I was at Mr.
Margeson’s to dinner. They are kind friends. Was upstairs after dinner –
just knitted some at a pair of little mittens, and did the Cross Word
puzzle in the Halifax Star. I read a little; and told a story to Freda
and Leslie. It is company to have them, and they are kind to me. Had a
nice letter from W. M. S. today. Everybody is kind – but I miss my dear
sister Edith; though I would not call her back to earth. Morris took
Mrs. Sproule to choir practice at South Branch tonight.
Saturday, October 11, 1941 –
There were showers at times all through the day; heavy rain in the
night. Tom Fulton took his father and mother to North River today. He is
not coming home until Monday (D. V.) Had a letter from Mary Fields (Mrs.
Sandy) today. I read to Freda and Leslie some, knitted and mended. The
day was quiet.
Sunday, October 12, 1941 –
Sabbath. A nice sunny day with a cool wind. We were all at church. Rev.
Ian MacKinnon brought Dr. (blank) Watson to Upper Stewiacke, and he
preached the Thanksgiving Sermon; Dr. MacKinnon read the scripture; had
prayer, and read the announcements. Alice & Glenn and Nina, Freda &
Leslie, were at A. P. Fulton’s a while this p.m. Morris went to Percy
Goodwin’s, East Stewiacke, and has not yet returned. I read, and wrote
some. Alda and Eldon Brenton are, or were, at Roy’s. Mrs. Sproule,
senior, was very nice to me; she is leaving Upper Stewiacke tomorrow for
her home with her daughter at Harvey Station, York. Co., N. B.
Monday, October 13, 1941 – It
was rainy in the night and some rain in the a.m., but Alice got the
clothes dried, and ironed. Tom is away yet, but will be here tomorrow
(D. V.) and Morris is planning to take a trip tomorrow if all’s well.
Mr. and Mrs. Percy Goodwin and their daughter Edith, Mrs. Guy Redden and
little Bruce, and Ralph Woodworth, came and had tea with us. Mrs. Redden
(nee Mabel Woodworth) and Brother Ralph, had been home to Stewiacke, on
the occasion of their mother’s death and funeral. And Edith Goodwin is
going to begin or resume her teaching at Cross Roads. She has been
absent a week on account of dear sister Edith Woodworth’s death. Mrs.
Woodworth was her Grandma. Mrs. John Miller called, too. It was nice of
her. Morris took Edith Goodwin to Mr. Rutherford’s after tea. Now he is
gone to bed.
Tuesday, October 14, 1941 – A
hard frost this morning, but it was a fine day; the wind felt cool.
Morris left for a holiday, about 9 o’clock this a.m. He planned to stop
at Percy Goodwin’s and take Mabel Redden and her little Bruce to
Amherst, Cum. Co., and leave them at Harold Steel’s: from there they
will proceed to Timmins, Ont., a day or two later (D.V.). Morris hopes
to travel a little in N. B. I was over to Mr. Margeson’s for two hours
or so, after dinner; had my knitting – Army socks. Edna was here a
little while in the a.m. Had a card from Mrs. Neil Archibald, Upper
Musquodoboit, and from the Woodworths.
Wednesday, October 15, 1941 –
Quite a fine day “Ladies’ Aid” was held at Mrs. Frank L. Cox’s this p.m.
Roy took Ethel Deyarmond (Mrs. G. R.), Edna and me; and he, Alda (Mrs.
Eldon L. Brenton), Mrs. Sudney Cox (Jean Cox) came for us. There was a
goodly number present at the “Aid”: Mrs. John H. Fulton & little
Franklin; Mrs. M. Cooper (nee Rita Fulton of Mid. Musq.), Mrs. Emma
Butcher, Mrs. Philip Cox, Mrs. W. D. Kennedy, Mrs. Sproule, Mrs. J. D.
Cox, Mrs. Clyde B. Reynolds, Mrs. Edson Cox, Miss Evelyn Ralston, Miss
Jennie Miller, Miss Ella Schurman, Mrs. William MacMillan, Mrs. H. J.
Fulton, Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond, Mrs. Roy Blaikie & myself. I think these
were all. Mrs. S. A. Fulton, who is in the C. C. Hospital with a broken
hip, is about the same as she has been. Not much improvement.
Thursday, October 16, 1941 –
Quite a nice day. Wrote to F. J. B. and Mrs. F. W. Abrahamson. Mrs.
Bella Hamilton and son Bert called a short time. It was nice to see
them. Mrs. Hamilton is not very well – has high blood pressure. G. R.
Deyarmond and Roy had a sort of holiday. They were motored to Burnside,
walked to Riversdale, took a train to Truro, and they met them and came
home. Guess they had a good trip. It was like long ago to G. R. and Roy.
Friday, October 17, 1941 –
There were a few drops of rain today, but it was not a bad autumn day. I
sewed most of the day – upstairs – now it is evening and I am still
here, thought I was downstairs for my supper. Morris is not home yet,
but we are not expecting him. Had a card from Mr. & Mrs. Wallace
Benjamin (nee Abbie Collings). Tom went hunting. I guess he is not
coming back until Monday – to work I mean.
Saturday, October 18, 1941 –
Quite a nice day. Wind felt chilly. I sewed most of the day; enjoyed it
so much. Read to Leslie some of the time. Enjoyed that too. Glenn went
to bring Shirley home; she has severed her connection with the Aberdeen
Hospital, and is home for good – not liking the work. There was school
today, making up for some of the time lost. Then Freda, and the others
of her Sabbath School class, went to their teacher’s, Mrs. Philip Cox’s.
and had a picnic after school. Had letters from Morris, Aunt Jessie
Cooke, and Mrs. Everett Burton Deyarmond today. Glenn, Graham Fulton,
Artie Kennedy have gone to Truro to a political meeting in the interest
of the Liberal candidates, Alex Sutherland and R. F. MacLellan. Was in
Roy’s this p.m. This was Edna’s birthday.
Sunday, October 19, 1941 –
Sabbath. Sunshine, cloudy, with slight showers now, just before dinner,
sunshine again. All, except Shirley, were at church. The sermon was on
the tares and the wheat. It was earnest and I heard it, but cannot
remember it well. The children’s hymn was “When He cometh.” In the p.m.
Glenn & family went for a drive. I was in Mr. Margeson’s a little while.
Then they came home, had tea; and Roy was up a little while.
Monday, October 20, 1941 –
Cloudy this a.m. but turned out to be a sunshiny day. Wrote to E. M. B.
Mrs. Libble R. Crocker came and spent the day. We had a nice time
together. Willie Crocker, and Mrs. Walter Richards, who was to visit her
parents, Mr. & Mrs. J. Tree, called for Libbie in the evening. Wilmer
Hamilton was here too. Morris got home about tea time. He had a good
trip.
Tuesday, October 21, 1941 –
Some clouds; some sunshine, not cold. Ironed my share of the wash.
Knitted some. Was at Mr. Margeson’s; Mr. and Mrs. Sproule were there
too. They had tea at Mr. H. P. Cox’s and Mr. Sproule called here in the
evening. Glenn, and Tom Fulton, went to a political meeting in the hall.
Mr. Sproule and Morris were planning on or about some trail rangers
work. Mr. Sproule homes to have some boys from 8 or 9 to 12 or 14 formed
into a trail rangers’ group. There are so many ways of working for the
Master; and I am so little use in any of them! Yet, there is prayer, and
God hears the prayer, however poor and ignorant one may be, if the
prayer is earnest.
Wednesday, October 22, 1941 – Another nice warm day with sun & clouds.
Tom Fulton did not work, all day. He got a deer. Lola, Mrs. A. Putnam
Fulton, was here this p.m. a while – she and the little girls, Madeline,
Barbara and 10 months old Sylvia. Alice spent the afternoon at her
uncle’s – Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Day’s. She walked over. We hear of Mr. Jas.
Robertson’s death. I was in Mr. Margeson’s and Roy’s today.
Thursday, October 23, 1941 –
Cloudy and chilly most of the day, but it turned colder toward night,
and it is blowing and raining tonight. Alice cleaned the sitting room
today. Mrs. Emma Butcher spent the p.m. with us. We had a nice
afternoon; as it was such a bad night, Morris took her home in his car.
He would have done so anyway. Had a letter from E. M. B. A. P. Fulton &
Glenn were in Truro at a Liberal committee meeting.
Friday, October 24, 1941 –
Rainy and windy in the night. Chilly and windy today. They hauled gravel
some of the time; one load for us, between the house and the building
they spread it. Had three letters, or messages, today. One from F. J.
B., one from Mrs. Grace Nichols, and a card from Mrs. J. A. Lockhart,
Londonderry. The doings about the election are in full swing now. I
knitted most of the time. Mr. and Mrs. Percy Goodwin and Edith were here
& Shirley went to Stewiacke with them. Morris was at choir practice.
This is Foster Blaikie’s birthday; he is seventy years old.
Saturday, October 25, 1941 –
Pretty cold this a.m., but not windy. It has been a quiet day; they
hauled a load of gravel, and dumped it in front of the pig pen and
henhouse; Mr. Lloyd Anthony’s truck – it got stuck there, and they had a
little trouble getting it out. I had a little cold today: it seems
better tonight. The leaves are fast leaving the trees. Sometimes
loneliness fills my breast, as I thing of loved ones passing away; but I
know my dear Edith has just gone on to a brighter life On Beyond – it is
better far than here. And I may not murmur that she “a little sooner,
has laid the burden down.” I have much kindness for which to be
thankful. Morris and Tom went to Truro tonight, also to North River,
where they met Tom’s father and mother, and they all came home together.
Mr. and Mrs. Fulton had been spending two weeks with their daughter,
Mrs. Stanley R. Murray and Mr. Murray. They got home late in the
evening.
Sunday, October 26, 1941 –
There was quite a snow storm this a.m.; it was cloudy in the p.m. and it
was cold at night. They had quite a lot of company at Edna’s. Harry &
Nellie were here a little while in the eve. Glenn & Alice were in Stew.
East.
Monday, October 27, 1941 –
Alice washed and got the clothes dried and ironed. I knitted most of the
day. Was over to Mr. Margeson’s, but they were not at home; so I went
and spent a while with Olive, and had a nice time as I have always had
there. Tom Fulton and George Blaikie were to Truro today; Edwin and
Sidney Cox were hunting. Glenn and Bob Deyarmond were to Port Dufferin
with a load of lumber. This was a cloudy, windy day. It is cold tonight.
Frankie Cox took Sidney Cox and Winnie Patterson and I do not know who
else to Halifax today to see a wrestling match. Morris is at the manse
tonight.
Tuesday, October 28, 1941 –
Dark and rainy, most of the day. This was Election Day. Federal
Election. Our candidates were Conservative Blois F. (blank) and Geo. S.
Dickie, Liberals, A. Sutherland, and Rob. Faulkner MacLellan. (Blank
space). Mrs. Joseph Day spent the day with us. Mr. and Mrs. Edwin
Blaikie went to Brookfield today, to spend two or three days with Mr.
and Mrs. Eldon Brenton – the men to hunt some. Sidney Cox got a deer.
Wednesday, October 29, 1941 –
Rather cloudy in the a.m., but it was finer in the p.m. Quite a little
sunshine. Tom Fulton (blank), Morris and Mrs. Grant Cox & little
daughter, Avis, and I drove in to Truro; it was a parade day for the
soldiers, and the streets were blocked with cars. However, after a
while, we got to Harry’s and had dinner there. Then we drove to the C.
C. Hospital and saw Mrs. S. A. Fulton who is very comfortable today. We
were glad to see each other; and she was glad to see Morris too. We did
not stay long and we went to W. D. Isnor’s. We saw Aunt Martha and she
is not very well. Saw Flo. – Mrs. Isnor – and Jennie Croft, her niece.
Morris went to (blank) Layton’s, the dentist, and I stayed at Mrs.
Isnor’s, 21 Duke St., until he came back after a lunch – we went home,
arriving about 5:30 p.m. Rev. J. M. Sproule was here to tea, and he and
Morris and Shirley were looking over hymns etc., then they all went to a
meeting of the Badminton Club. Had a letter from Chas. Meadows.
Thursday, October 30, 1941 – A
nice sunny day; with chilly wind. Roy and Edna departed on their annual
trip today. The details – where they go, or any adventures they have,
are related after they come home. I mended some, wrote some, knitted a
little and read some today. I do not know much to write, as I hear
nothing except they raise their voices. Had a letter from Mabel Redden.
Shirley and Morris and Thelma were at choir practice this evening.
Friday, October 31, 1941 –
Rather dark and chilly with rain. The mill folk did not work today; it
was too wet &c. Had a letter from Mrs. Margeson; they are in Berwick.
Wrote to R. W. Woodworth and F. J. B. Glenn & Alice went away this p.m.
to Dean I guess. We had a quiet p.m. “The boys” went to hunt – no
results. But I fancy they were not very particular. There was a
Hallowe’en party at the hall. Nina and Tom went. Ruth was in; also Ruby.
It’s all
very well to be happy, when life goes along like a song,
But the fellow worth while, When everything goes dead wrong.
Saturday, November 1, 1941 – A
fair, sunshiny day – not so chilly. Was over round Mr. Margeson’s today,
once in the a.m. and once in the p.m. It is lonely looking over there.
Mrs. Alex Fulton was in a while in the p.m. We were looking over the
study book – it is on China – trying to study up the way the lessons are
presented. We are not so quick to take up new ways as we used to be;
younger women will soon have to go on with W. M. S. and those of us who
are growing old, step aside, methinks. Glenn and Alice went to the
store; Ruth & Joyce were in a while. I do not know whether anyone else
was in or not.
Sunday, November 2, 1941 –
Sabbath. A wet day. Only 30 at church. The sermon was preached from the
text Matt 25:29. A fine discourse on the increase of spiritual riches
the more they are used, and practiced, and the losing of them by laying
them away and never using them. Alice had a cold and was home. It was a
quiet afternoon. Roy and Edna came home; they had a few days at Chester
– at Mitchell House. Roy was here p.m.
Monday, November 3, 1941 – A
lovely fine day. The washing & ironing are done; was in to see Mr. &
Mrs. Margeson & at Roy’s in the a.m. Just knitted and sewed & ironed in
the p.m. The young fry are at Badminton tonight. It is lonely without
dear Edith – but she is happy, and there is the hope of a happy home
with Jesus in the time to come. Wrote to Vivian and Mrs. C. Meadows.
“We
shall go over the river to rest,
as the pure and the lovely before us have gone,
Our sun shall go down in the beautiful west,
To rise in the radiance that circles the throne,
Until then we shall rest in the love and the faith
Of Him who has called us to Heaven Above;
They passed to their rest at the touching of death,
They live like ourselves, in His infinite love.
Tuesday, November 4, 1941 –
Another fine day, with chilly wind. I knit and read most of the day.
Mrs. Alex was in. She and Kenneth (blank) tonight. All of our folk
except Glenn & me are at the lantern pictures in the hall.
Wednesday, November 5, 1941 –
Foggy, and damp; Cloudy, not cold. I made a cover for a cushion this
a.m. After dinner Morris drove me over to see Mrs. Pearson and Mrs.
Miller. Mrs. Miller is an invalid – in bed – and lives with the Pearsons
now. I had a nice visit; had tea with Catherine (Mrs. Wilfred Pearson).
She had Graham Fulton and little Hughie, Mr. John O’Connell and myself
there besides her own family. Morris and George came for me; got home
about 8 p.m.
Thursday, November 6, 1941 –
Another foggy morning; but was a fine afternoon; raining some tonight.
Alice and Glenn got away about eight o’clock this a.m. They started on
an annual trip. Shirley and I got along well today. Audrey Dean was here
to tea; she is leaving Dr. MacLeod’s where she has been sometime.
Shirley went to the Branch Mission Circle, Tom and Morris to Badminton.
Was in Mrs. Margeson’s and Edna’s this p.m.
Friday, November 7, 1941 – A
rainy day; not so very cold though. Olive was in two or three minutes
this a.m. Mabel Cox was in a little while in the p.m. This was Aunt
Alice (Ellie) P. Graham’s birthday; none of us got there. Wrote to Cleo
and Edith. Morris, Tom and Nina got to the congregational supper.
Shirley, Freda, Leslie and I were home; not caring to go.
“No
pain, not palm; no thorns, no throne; no cross, no crown.”
Saturday, November 8, 1941 –
And fine day; and quite mild. Shirley and I worked together, and got
along fine. There was school today, making up a day out of six days lost
by the teacher’s illness. Katherine Girdwood (Mrs. G. K. Burrows) and
little Myrna Lorraine are visiting at Mrs. S. Graham Fulton’s. Morris
and George went to Truro; Morris is having more dentistry done. Had
letters from Sister Janie (& niece Eva).
Sunday, November 9, 1941 –
Sabbath. Rather wet and rainy, but we all attended church. Alice and
Glenn were not home until evening. Mr. Sproule’s sermon was on the
parable of the ten virgins, five of whom were wise and five were foolish
and took no oil. There were 113 persons at church. Thelma came back when
Percy brought Edith to Cross Roads. Thelma spent the weekend with Edith,
at home in Stewiacke East. Glenn and Alice came home early; they had
been to Brooklyn, Liverpool &c. This was Mehitable Brenton’s one
hundredth (100) birthday: she is wonderful to have lived a century. Now
she lives in Truro with her daughter, Mrs. Clarence Hayman. Part of the
church service was for Remembrance Day.
Monday, November 10, 1941 –
Foggy this a.m., but the clothes dried pretty well. Mr. Wood began our
fall ploughing today. I sewed a little, knitted a little and wrote a
little. Mrs. Alex Fulton was in this p.m. and we were looking over the
study book; we have the second chapter, “The Canadians are Coming” – it
is on West China immediately after the Boxer Rebellion in 1900-01. The
growth of missions. Edith Goodwin was here to tea, and went to
Badminton, then she and George and Morris went to the dance in the hall
in Middle Stewiacke. Had letters from F. J. B., two from E. M. B., and
M. E. Blaikie. Mrs. Lorenzo Ellis is dead.
Tuesday, November 11, 1941 –
Remembrance Day: Foggy this a.m. but the p.m. was fine. Alice was away.
Mrs. Alex Fulton and Mrs. Margeson were here yesterday p.m. Ruby Chase
was with us to tea. Hazel Deyarmond called in the evening; Joyce was in
in the p.m. Also Ruth in the p.m. and Thelma in the evening. Tom and
Morris are at the minister’s., playing table tennis tonight.
Sometimes there comes an hour of calm,
Grief turns to blessing, pain to balm;
And then my heart attains to this –
To thank God for the things I miss.
Wednesday, November 12, 1941 –
Foggy, chilly, and a little rain. Morris was away. This a.m., Edna,
Ruth, Roy and he started, and left Edna and Ruth in Truro; they, Roy and
Morris, went to Oxford. Edwin and Olive went to New Glasgow. Tom was not
working – went (blank). George was at home; Jean and Sidney went to
Otter Brook. Shirley is at choir practice; Alice was at Club at Mrs.
Ross Johnson’s this p.m. I was at Mrs. Margeson’s a short time.
Thursday, November 13, 1941 –
Foggy in the a.m., a little snow fell last night, and there is some on
the ground yet; but the sun shone this p.m. and tho’ the wind was
chilly, the p.m. was pleasant. The mill did not run, or school keep this
afternoon. The funeral of the late Mrs. S. A. Fulton was held in the
Upper Stewiace church at 2:30; Rev. J. K. MacInnis of Brunswick St.
Church, Truro, assisted Rev. J. M. Sproule with the service. There was
quite a large funeral. The flowers were beautiful. Mrs. Fulton was 83
years old. She was a good neighbor; has been kind and pleasant to me,
and we had some nice talks together. We trust she is in the place that
Jesus has prepared for those who love him. Nina is at the manse for a
few days, helping Ruby while Mrs. Sproule is away. Shirley, Tom and
Morris are at Badminton.
Friday, November 14, 1941 – A
little snow is on the grass (and) ground. There was some rain fell in
the p.m. and the air is chilly tonight. I do not know much that went on
today. Had a letter from J. W. Just a message of sympathy in memory of
my dear Edith. Shirley and Morris are at choir practice.
Saturday, November 15, 1941 –
Nice and fine; and not cold. Freda and I were in to see Edna and Themla
and Ruth a little while; then called at Mrs. Margeson’s; went out the
Otter Brook Road for a short walk. The sunshine was lovely In the
afternoon I just knitted and sewed some. I have so many blessings that I
should not complain about things, and I try not to do so; but sometimes
I do. I finished readung, “The Keys of the Kingdom” by A. J. Cronin. It
has some interesting characters in it; but I know not how to understand
parts of it.
Sunday, November 16, 1941 –
Rainy – not a steady rain; but showers. We were all at church; Nina has
been at the manse with Ruby Chase, since Friday. Mrs. Sproule is away
for a little change. Harold Lockhart and Allison, his thirteen year old
son, was with him. They live in New Glasgow. We had a nice visit with
them. Harold Lockhart is a fine man. In the evening the annual Thank
Offering meeting of the Evening Auxiliary and W. M. S. was held in the
hall. Mr. Sproule was our speaker for the evening. There was not a very
full meeting, as the evening was wet. Morris took Alice and me, and
Shirley, who had been at the manse, came back with us. Tom did not come
tonight, was at his home. Sidney and Jean were at church. Alda & Ruth
called in the eve. Thelma went to Brookfield with Alda & Eldon.
Monday, November 17, 1941 –
Cold, windy and damp. Alice washed, but only put a few clothes on the
line. Glenn, and G. R. Deyarmond went to Oxford for the new mill
carriage today; they took the old one; the foundry men took it in part
payment for the new one. Tom did not work at the mill today. Jean was up
a while this p.m. The young people are at Badminton. I was at Mr.
Margeson’s a little while this p.m. Sent letters to Mrs. Bella Hamilton
and Mrs. Thompson. Had letters from Vivian and F. J. B.
Tuesday, November 18, 1941 –
Cold wind, and damp, a little snow. The mill has not started yet; they
are putting in a new carriage. Glenn and Shirley were in Truro; they got
the radio repaired &c. Tom Fulton was working today. The session of the
church meets at Mr. Alex Fulton’s tonight: he is the oldest member of
the session, and not able to go out at night very much; so they meet
with him at his home usually. Wrote to F. J. B.
Wednesday, November 19, 1941 –
Dark and cloudy most of the day; sun was out a short time. Not very
cold. Alice was at the hall; she and Ethel Deyarmond sewed in two quilts
this a.m.; and the club quilted them in the afternoon. Mrs. A. P. Fulton
and Mrs. Lester Deyarmond served the supper for the club. I was in Roy’s
a little while this a.m.
Thursday, November 20, 1941 –
Very foggy this a.m., but turned fine and was lovely autumn day: warm,
too. Alice was down to see her mother; came home early in the p.m. –
before supper. Glenn took some lumber to Truro; Roy took some of his
family in too; and Morris and George went to see about a pinion for the
mill carriage; the two latter went to Oxford for the pinion or pinions.
Glenn got home early in the p.m. Geo. & Morris not much after seven p.m.
The young fry are at Badminton. I walked to Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond’s and
she kindly cut out a little pair of boys pants for me.
Friday, November 21, 1941 – A
rainy, damp morning. Cloudy in the afternoon, but it did not rain. Glenn
was away with away with Artie Kennedy: they were doing something about a
range. The Ladies’ Aid quilted a quilt in the hall this afternoon, and
Mrs. Alex Fulton and Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond served supper – having the aid
as their turn. Ladies present were Mrs. W. D. Kennedy, Mrs. Lynds, Mrs.
Edson Cox, Miss Jennie Miller, Miss Ella Schurman, Mrs. H. T. Fulton,
Mrs. W. MacMillan, Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond, Mrs. Roy Blaikie, Mrs. S. G.
Fulton, Mrs. Alex Fulton and Mira Blaikie. Morris took me, and brought
me home. Had a card from F. J. B. Leo is slightly better.
Saturday, November 22, 1941 – A
fine day with a cold wind. Alice, Glenn, Nina, Freda and Leslie went to
Truro to get some of the family’s teeth repaired. They returned before
tea. Guess they had a good time. Nina returned last night. She has been
at the manse a week; she and Ruby Chase kept house while Mrs. Sproule
was away. I had two letters today – opne from Edith Boomer. Fern Boomer
has gone to Calgary.
Sunday, November 23, 1941 –
Cloudy, and as night came on, it rained. We were at Grace Mason’s on the
way to Branch church. We were all at church this a.m. All except Glenn
and Freda. The text was, “They seat will be empty.” I Saml., Chap. 20;
“Thou shalt be missed,” I Saml. 20:18. Or this is the correct way, “Thou
shalt be missed . . . Thy seat will be empty.” Edith Goodwin was here to
dinner, and went to Branch church in the afternoon, where the Sacrament
of the Lord’s Supper was commemorated. Morris, Edith Goodwin and I were
invited to Mrs. W. L. Nelson’s to tea; we accepted the invitation, and
came home in pretty good time for Edith and Morris to attend Y. P. S. C.
E. Ruth, Shirley and Nina went to Southvale, to church service, with Mr.
Sproule.
Monday, November 24, 1941 – It
rained and the wind blew in the night, and the wind was high all day. It
is cold & windy tonight. I knitted most of the time; ironed my share of
the wash. They started the mill, and I guess it is satisfactory. I wrote
a letter this a.m. to E. A. Cox. The young fry are at Badminton. Mrs.
Ira St. C. Higgins is dead. The family of five live in Halifax, 3 girls,
2 boys. Mrs. Higgins was 61 years old.
Tuesday, November 25, 1941 –
Quite frosty this morning; a cold wind sprang up and blew all day – but
there was nice sunshine all day. I was at Mrs. Margeson’s this p.m. a
while. We hear that Lester Deyarmond has enlisted for Army Service.
Wednesday, November 26, 1941 –
A cold windy day. I was knitting and sewing. Roy, Glenn and Bob (G. R.)
were to Caribou with lumber; they brought home a load of logs. Mrs.
Alfred Johnson visited here a short time this p.m. Roy was to see me in
the evening.
Thursday, November 27, 1941 –
All kinds of weather today; a little rain, slight snowfall – just in the
air; a flash of sunshine & wind. Was at Roy’s in the p.m. an hour or
two. Mailed a letter to E. M. B.
Friday, November 28, 1941 --
Sunshine, cloud & snow. Morris motored Edith Goodwin & me to her home,
after tea; he returned home in a short time. Edith’s parents went up
after her, not having received the letter telling them that we were
bringing her home. They returned before Morris left, however. We
retired, and rested quite well.
Saturday, November 29, 1941 –
Rather cloudy and cold. Edith and her father went to Stewiacke town
after dinner. Mr. Wright, who is making his home at this home (Mr. &
Mrs. P. R. Goodwin’s) and who is blind, and somewhat deaf, talked to us
some; and after Edith & Percy (her father) returned, we, except Percy,
who had his evening chores to do, shelled beans for tomorrow eve.
Sunday, November 30, 1941 – A
little fine snow fell; the ground froze quite hard during the night.
Edith went to church in the p.m. Mr. Wright’s son, Gordon of Alton, came
to see his father, and shaved him, this forenoon. Morris came about 4.40
o’clock; we took tea and left for Upper Stewiacke, where we arrived
about 8:30 or thereabout, having taken Edith to her boarding place –
Mrs. F. H. Rutherford’s. Roy was in for a few minutes. He and Edna had
been at John Grant’s.
Monday, December 1, 1941 –
Frosty and wintry this morning. Alice dried most of her clothes in the
house. Arnold Wood was working with Glenn this (blank). Glenn was in a
little while. Freda was sick today, but went to school in the forenoon,
and came home before dinner. Then she was at school a short time in the
p.m. but Glenn, who had taken her, brought her home; and she lay on the
sofa all afternoon and evening. The youth’s are at Badminton.
Tuesday, December 2, 1941 – I
knitted – and sewed a little. Poor little Freda was so much pained, with
her sore eye, that they had Dr. MacLeod come and see her. Her eye is
infected – and she must stay home from school until it is better.
Wednesday, December 3, 1941 –
Not so cold; a cool wind. Leslie was at school today; but felt not very
well in the afternoon; he is always at home then, as the primer and
Grade I classes just attend school in the a.m. Olive was in, but I did
not see her, only going home. I read Heidi to Freda. She is a little
better I think. I sent letters to J. W. an Mrs. E. G. (Mildred). Had
letters from F. S. W. and J. H. Cox.
Thursday, December 4, 1941 –
Quite mild. Freda and Leslie both in bed all day, with eye soreness or
whatever it is. D. R. H. McLeod was to see them this a.m. I was in Roy’s
this p.m. and George took Edna & me to ‘the store’ after which we
attended Ladies Aid at Mrs. J. D. Cox’s. It was a nice Aid. Mr. R. D.
Power met with an accident a day or two ago. He slipped, fell, and cut
his head & broke a rib. Mrs. Alex Fulton stayed the evening here. Wrote
to Allan Boomer.
Friday, December 5, 1941 –
Sister Clara’s (Mrs. M. D. Town’s) birthday. How the years go by! I am
sixteen years older than she is. This was not a cold day, but damp and
foggy. Freda and Leslie’s head and eyes are a little bit better; they
were downstairs this afternoon. Charlie Blaikie came from Truro this
afternoon. Mrs. Alex Fulton and Tom and Morris went into town this p.m.
Saturday, December 6, 1941 –
Not very cold; wind a bit chilly. Glenn took Shirley and Nina to Truro
to get things for Christmas. The mill did not run. Tom and Morris
wandered through the woods in the p.m. and almost got lost. I was in to
see Mr. and Mrs. Margeson this p.m. They are as usual. George Blaikie
and Richard Wood were in a minute today. Aunt Martha Fleck still
continues ill at her daughter’s – Mrs. W. D. Isnor – 21 Duke St., Truro.
Sunday, December 7, 1941 – No
entry (see reference December 9).
Monday, December 8, 1941 –
Rained a lot in the night. The wind was cold, and snow flew in the air
sometimes. It seems frostier tonight. They did not run the Mill today;
it was too stormy and muddy. Glenn and Morris took a walk in the woods,
out Southvale way this p.m. Japan is bombing places near Thailand today:
it is in the Eastern Hemisphere, near Burma, I think. The places are
United States possessions. The little ones’ eyes are getting better, but
they did not go to school. Sent our Eaton order.
Tuesday, December 9, 1941 –
Rather cold; bad weather; not much work going on at the mill. Alice and
Glenn went to Truro. Freda went to school. She has missed a week. I did
not write on Sabbath. It was wet. Only 47 people out to church.
Wednesday, December 10, 1941 –
Cold and windy. Alice brought in the washing off the line tonight. They
ironed them today. I stayed in bed with my rheumatic limb. The heat
helps it. Morris is away – he went to choir practice and somewhere else.
Thursday, December 11, 1941 –
It snowed a little bit last night, also froze some; Glenn and G. R.
hauled some logs today; from Otter Brook – they were from A. P.
Fulton’s. In the p.m. Roy took us to the Missionary meeting, held at the
manse. It was the day to elect new officers: the old were re-elected,
except that Mrs. Sproule was appointed Associate Helper’s Secretary in
place of Mrs. Alex Fulton, who is our re-elected President. We had a
nice meeting; the program was from Missionary Monthly. Ten women were
present. Wrote to E. M. B. and Cleo. Italy and Germany declared war on
U. S. A. today, both pledging victory. Mussolini announcing to Italian
crowds, “We will bring you victory.”
Friday, December 12, 1941 –
Cloudy; not as cold as some days. They sawed in the mill. I just stayed
in the house, mostly upstairs. Must try to go outdoors more.
Saturday, December 13, 1941 –
Cold last night, but a beautiful day. The trees were all covered with
white frost, and the sun shining on them, made they look so lovely. They
looked as though a misty veil was thrown over their branches. Robert
Sproule was here to play with Leslie in the p.m. Alice and Glenn went to
the store &c. Morris went to Truro. Tom is sick at his stomach.
Sunday, December 14, 1941 –
Sabbath. A wet day: not very cold, though. 55 at church. We were at
church this a.m. The sermon was about Mary, the mother of Jesus: how she
was willing to obey God’s will in taking up her duties. I stayed in bed
most of the p.m.; read and slept. Harry and Nellie are at Roy’s. Tom
Fulton was able to be at church.
Monday, December 15, 1941 –
Rather cold and windy, with snow flying now and then all day; it is
falling some tonight. The young people are at Badminton. G. R. Deyarmond
was working with Glenn today. Alice washed in the forenoon; was at Mrs.
G. R. Deyarmond’s a little while in the p.m.
Tuesday, December 16, 1941 – A
fine sunny day, but there was a cold wind, which died away toward night.
I ironed this forenoon, just finished when dinner was ready – was an
hour at the ironing. How slow one sometimes gets as the years brow to be
many. Sometimes it sees as if one felt a spark of youthful vigor, and
can be a little faster. But it is well to feel content either way. I
called at Roy’s and Edwin’s this p.m. Had very pleasant chats at both
places. My life is mostly peaceful and happy if I look at it aright. Tom
and Morris have gone to bed pretty early tonight. We sent parcels to the
west today. Morris is sending his present to Flossie tomorrow; it is
money this year.
Wednesday, December 17, 1941 –
Dark and cloudy with some wind. I did a little writing and knitting this
a.m. In the p.m. I knitted and did a few little things. Shirley and
Alice went to Y. L. Club at Mrs. Hickman’s. Mrs. Margeson was over a
little while; she has not been here for some time, and it was good to
see her. Robert and Paul Sproule were here a while. Morris and Shirley
are at choir practice.
Thursday, December 18, 1941 –
Quite a fine day, and not too cold. Just sewed and knitted, and wrote
this forenoon. Something broke at the mill, and they did not work much
this p.m. Morris and Edwin were to Martin Smith’s. (Blank) Between four
and five o’clock Morris took me to the store – H. J. Fulton’s – where I
made some purchases for Christmas. Tom Fulton and Sidney Cox went to
Truro for Tom to get his teeth repaired. Morris is at Badminton; also
Shirley. Wilmer Hamilton is spending the evening with Alice.
Friday, December 19, 1941 – A
nice fine day; muddy, but not deep mud. Edna was in a little while this
a.m. Shirley went to her grandmother Hamilton’s today. Came home before
tea time. After dinner, Mrs. Alex Fulton and I walked to Frank B. Cox’s
store, and made a few purchases. Nina and some of the girls went to
Cross Roads to see and hear Edith Goodwin’s school entertainment. It
would be quite a walk for them. Morris sent some money to Florence and
Edith Boomer, in the west, today.
Saturday, December 20, 1941 –
Dark and cloudy. Snow falling in the p.m. Percy and Flora came to take
Edith home from Cross Roads for the Christmas holidays. Flora was here
to dinner. They were up to the Christmas tree last night but had to come
for Edith today. Alice and Glenn were to the store, Nina to C. G. I. T.
Sunday, December 21, 1941 –
Sabbath. Snowy and windy; frosty tonight. Glenn was up all night
attending the church fire; all the others of us went to church. The
Sermon was of the good will, and angel’s song at the birth of Jesus.
“Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, goodwill toward men”;
83 were present at church. They are at a candle light service tonight;
it is in the church. I did not go, as it was cold, and I was lazy about
making an effort; they, Roy and Glenn, were kind about taking, or
offering to take me, but I am content at home.
Monday, December 22, 1941 – A
snowy day, but not this evening. Alice washed; dried the clothes, mostly
in the house. We ironed in the p.m. They did not work in the mill this
afternoon. Shirley took the community box over to Mr. Margeson. Mr.
Sproule called this evening; he and Tom and Morris went to Badminton
tonight. Among my mail was a letter from Aunt Jessie, who lives at 165
Jubilee Road, Halifax, N. S.
Tuesday, December 23, 1941 –
Not very cold, cloudy. We were fixing up Christmas presents; and I made
a cover for a cushion this p.m. The Christmas tree was in the hall
tonight. There was a good entertainment, and presents were given to the
school children mostly, though there were a few others.
Wednesday, December 24, 1941 –
A lovely, fine day. I called on Roy’s ladies this a.m., and conversed a
little while; then went to Edwin’s and talked to Olive a few minutes. In
the p.m. I wrapped up presents &c. Alice and Shirley were finishing up
their preparations for tomorrow &c. The little boys from the manse, and
Terence Johnson, were here a little while. The mill stopped running a
little early. Mrs. Sproule sent some presents to us.
Thursday, December 25,1941 –
Christmas Day, nice and mild. Foggy in the late p.m. and evening. We got
up in very good time for Christmas Day, and the family breakfasted
together; and had our family worship together. It was a lovely morning;
the Christmas tree was relieved of its presents; all had a goodly
supply. My presents were so many – all the family were more than good to
me. Such nice things! And I, among many mothers no doubt, feel that I
have so much reason to be glad for the men and women they have come to
be. And the grandchildren are so kind. I can only love them, and trust
that they may have busy, useful lives, and hear at last the words, “Well
done good and faithful servant.” Morris and I were invited to East
Stewiacke to Percy Goodwin’s to dinner: we got there about noon; and had
a very nice time – Miss Alice Eaton and Ralph Woodworth were all the
guests they had beside Morris and me. The young folks sang some hymns;
we looked at the Christmas cards, presents. About 4:30 p.m. we left for
home where we arrived in time for supper. We had cards from Edith Boomer
and others; also hankies from Edith for Morris and me; a little present
for Alice and Glenn. Morris went to badminton after we came home.
Friday, December 26, 1941 – A
moderate day; wind cold tonight. Just cleared up, wrote a letter to E.
M. B. and knit this a.m. Was to Mr. Margeson’s a little while this p.m.
Robert and Paul Sproule were here a little while this afternoon. They
and Leslie visited the old Indian Camp, or the remains of it; it is in
Mr. Martin S. Fulton’s pasture. Morris and Shirley are going to choir
practice. Had cards and favors from Flossie today. Freda and I took a
walk out the Otter Brook this p.m.
Saturday, December 27, 1941 –
Cool; with snow falling a little. I peeled a few apples this a.m. and
just the day’s little things. Jean was to see me a while this p.m. It is
nice to have visits from the girls. It keeps one young, to know that
things go on. But whatever comes is all right – “For the best will come
in the Great to Be, ‘Tis ours to serve and wait, And a Beautiful country
we soon shall see, For death but opes the gate.” Mr. and Mrs. Sproule
were here to tea. It is nice to have them.
Sunday, December 28, 1941 –
Sabbath. Quite mild; a little snow fell – but made no covering of the
ground. We were all at church. The sermon was in keeping with the time,
the closing Sabbath; “dismiss us with thy blessing.” and Like 2”29. “Now
lettest thy servant depart in peace.” There were 104 persons present at
the service. The minister’s car was out of repair; so the boys walked to
church. Freda and I called to see the Margesons; and we walked out the
Otter Brook Road to the top of the hill beyond the little brook. Morris
has a sore throat and did not attend Y. P. S. C. E. Roy was up a short
time.
Monday, December 29, 1941 –
Cloudy, with little squalls of snow melting.. Clothes did not dry much.
Nina went in to Truro with Ruby Chase, Mr. Sproule and his boys. They
came home to dinner, and Ruby had tea here; and she and Shirley and Nina
went to Badminton. Was in Roy’s a little while this p.m. Wrote to F. J.
B.
Tuesday, December 30, 1941 –
Wind chilly. Fine snow softly falling, but it does not amount to much.
Shirley and Freda were to Mr. A. P. Fulton’s to dinner. I just knit and
mended today. The house inspector, Mr. Matheson, was round too. Morris
and the girls are at a party at the manse tonight. Tom did not accept
his invitation. Had a letter form Stanley Abrahamson, Belvoir, Va.,
today. He is training there.
Wednesday, December 31, 1941 –
Something like yesterday; but there were no snow squalls today. I mended
this a.m. In the p.m. I went to Olive’s about 2:30 or three p.m.; she
was out, so I saw Edna and Mrs. Grant (Edna’s sister Mabel) coming. I
waited and talked to them a while; then Freda came to tell me that Mrs.
Richard Barrett had come to see me: Mrs. Barrett made us a nice little
visit, and walked home after tea. We had a quiet evening. Nina, and Ruby
Sproule walked to South Branch. Had dinner at W. T. Nelson’s; visited at
Alfred Teas’ and walked back; Nine got back around 4 p.m. approximately.
Edwin was in tonight. Brought a bag of sugar.
1941 Appendices
My
Daily Prayer
To grow a little wiser day by day,
To school my mind and body to obey,
To keep my inner life both clean and strong,
To free my life from guile, my hands from wrong,
To shut the door on hate and scorn and pride;
To open them, to love, the windows wide,
To meet with cheerful heart what comes to me,
To turn life’s discords into harmony,
To share some weary worker’s heavy load,
To point some straying comrade to the road,
To know that what I have is not my own,
To feel that I am never quite alone.
This would I pray from day to day,
For then I know my life will flow
In peace, until it be God’s will to go.
20 April 1941
Extract from Surgeon of the Skeena, who has Rev. Horace C. Wrinch.
On opening their house to patients coming to him for treatment, and
having no other place for them – they had traveled 180 miles – the
Doctor & his wife received them into their home where they were welcomed
as part of the family. Afterward he set apart, besides the room used as
a dispensary, the sitting room and two bedrooms for the occupation of
patients. Dr. Wrinch said, “We may be criticized for opening our home to
patients, especially when we have small children, but we find it
pleasant and believe that we are doing acceptable work for the Master in
taking such men into our home and letting them have a glimpse of
Christian family life. It does us good to see how much we enjoy it.”
Addresses
Mrs. C. W. Mattatall
Long Hill Road
R. F. D. Groton, Conn.
U. S. A.
Mr.
Morton E. Webster
435 Walker Ave.
Ashland, Oregon
W. F. Blaikie
5518 S. W. 7th Street,
Miami. Florida
Two
lists of names
(no reason given for compiling them)
1. Martha Fulton (Mrs. John Fulton)
2. Mac Tree
3. Philip Cox
4. Ruby Chase
4. Harold Deyarmond
6. Joyce Deparmond
7. Nina Blaikie
8. Tom Fulton
9. Ruth Blaikie
10. George Blaikie
11. Edwin Blaikie
12. Olive Blaikie (Mrs. Edwin Blaikie)
13. Sidney Cox
14. Frank Cox
15. Mabel Cox
16. Blair Fulton
17. Sedley Rulton
18. Almon Miller
19. Alan McKenzie
20. James Benvie
21. Luillian Benvie
22. Irene Benvie
23. Mary Power (Mrs. Fred Power)
24. Isabelle Redden (Mrs. Philip Redden)
25. Arthur Kennedy Jr.
26. Margaret Kennedy
27. Amy Barrett
28. Winnifred Patterspm
29. Erma Patterson (Mrs. W. Patterson)
30. Elvin Geddes
31. Melvin Wright
32. Margaret Wright
33. Mrs. Oscar Higgins
34. Muir Patterson
35. Herman Johnson
36. Gladys Miller
Mrs. Phillip Cox (Hannah) by certificate
1. Martha Fulton (Mrs. John Fulton)
2. Mac Tree
3. Philip Cox
4. Ruby Chase
5. Joyce Deyarmond
6. Harold Deyarmond
7. Mrs. Fred Power (Mary McDonald)
8. Arthur Kennedy Jr.
9. Margaret Kennedy
10. Muir Patterson
11. Winnifred Patterson
12. Mrs. Winnifred Patterson (Erma McMillan)
13. Herman Johnson
14. Irene Benvie
15. Lillian Benvie
16. James Benvie
17. Allan McKenzie
18. Almon Miller
19. Sedley Fulton
20. Blair Fulton
21. Frank Cox
22. Sidney Cox
23. Mabel Cox
24. Tom Fulton
25. Nina Blaikie
26. Ruth Blaikie
27. George Blaikie
28. Edwin Blaikie
29. Mrs. Edwin Blaikie (Olive Ross)
30. Mrs. Oscar Higgins (Clara Wright)
31. Marguerite Wright
32. Melvin Wright
33. Mrs. Philip Redden (Isabelle Parks)
34. Elvin Geddes
35. Gladys Miller
36. Amy Barrett
(on profession of faith)
Mrs. Philip Cox by certificate
(nee Hannah Sandeson, now Hannah Densmore)
List of Officers
(not specifed)
President - Mrs. William Girdwood
Corresponding Secretary - Mrs. Roy Blaikie
Associate Helpers Sec’ty - Mrs. Alex Fulton
Christian Stewardship & trainee - Mr. George Bentley
Literature Secretary - Mrs. D. M. Blaikie
Missionary Monthly Secretary - Mrs. W. D. Kennedy
Community Friendship (strangers) Sec’ty - Mrs. Edson Cox
Supply - Mrs. Edson Cox
Temperance & Christian Citizenship - Mrs. Abram Bentley
Alberta's Golden Season
When the sun shines brightly on the brilliant hues of autumn tinted
foliage, it is Alberta's golden season. Often, as is the case this year,
there is an irony about such fine weather. Heavy frost, perhaps a
snowfall or two and a spell of wet weather, kill all the garden flowers
and damage crops awaiting the threshing machine. Then comes the sun
again, the days are glorious, and one wishes that those early or
mid-September cold snaps could be postponed so that the glories of early
autumn could be added tlie flowers of summer.
However, the early frost is one of the penalties of living in a northern
latitude. It is a minor one and cannot long detract from full enjoyment
of colorful landscape and sparkling air.
The out-of-doors calls today, encouraging such goodly pursuits as hiking
in the woods, hunting ducks - and, very soon, the toothsome upland bird
- and, nearer home, raking leaves and putting the garden to e bed for
the winter. On such days, it is good just to be alive and in Alberta.
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