A Year at Hawkswood: the Diary of Frances Caverhill for 1865

Frances Caverhill

First published by Nags Head Press in 1981

Digitised and made available online by the University of Auckland Libraries and Learning Services.

Epub © 2017 Early New Zealand Books Collection

ISBN 978-1-98-851324-9

[TITLE PAGES]

THIS DIARY of family life and station work and hospitality in the 1860s is one of many kept by Mrs Caverhill and not previously published as a complete text. It is centred on Hawkswood, North Canterbury, a coastal run near Kaikoura, but in its homestead emphasis has much general interest relating to the domestic scene in those times.

For this limited edition printing the diary for the full year has been divided to make two matching volumes, each of six months' duration, annotated separately and published at an interval.

Highlights of this first volume, January-June, include an Easter coach trip to town by husband and wife, with a fortnight's social round in early Christchurch and Rangiora, and the station crisis of an accident to the head shepherd, who falls down a precipice while out pig-shooting.

A YEAR AT HAWKSWOOD

The diary of Frances Caverhill for 1865

IN TWO VOLUMES
Volume I: January-June

NAG'S HEAD PRESS
CHRISTCHURCH

FIRST PUBLISHED 1981 IN AN EDITION OF 300 COPIES

Additional material © 1981

Nag's Head Press

(R. S. Gormack)

[FOREWORD]

[Foreword, pages 5-8, omitted as it remains in copyright]

[Volume I, Jan-June 1865]

MOTUNAU

Sunday, 1 January 1865

Fine and warm in the morning but showery afterwards. Mr Bruce, J. J. Thomson, M. O'Connell, Willie and Redgie went to the Island this morning, they caught a young rabbit and brought it home with them. Tom's face is much better today. Ally is better too but is not quite well yet. Miss Gray and I, Aggie and Charley set out to walk to the cliffs, but were caught in a shower of rain and turned back. Willie very poorly again, bad headache and sickness. Had prayers tonight.

2. Fine and very hot. Charley, Redgie, J. J. Thomson and Maurice O'Connell left for Hawkswood. Redgie is riding the grey pony. We are to start on Friday if all is well. John is poorly today, and Willie too, he could not get up till late in the day and keeps nothing on his stomach. The cherries are getting ripe now, I made a cherry pie for supper. We went up to the

yards tonight to see a large flock of sheep. MisS Gray had never seen so many together before.

3. Fine. I packed the brown portmanteau all ready for going away, as all the luggage will be taken as far as Glendhu before we start. Mrs Collie and Agnes sat up all night to get all the clothes washed. There was a very strong north-west wind all night and it did not go down till about dinner time today. All the apples are blown off the trees. Miss Gray is very unwell, bad headache and sore throat. Wet this evening.

4. Miss Gray no better, indeed her throat is much worse, she can hardly swallow anything. The children all went to the beach in the bullock dray, old Bill came back with them to see that they came safely. I packed five boxes, although I do not think there is any probability of Miss Gray being well enough to start tomorrow. Mr Euston Duppa arrived from town.

5. Miss Gray no better I am sorry to say. I fear it will prevent our starting for home tomorrow, and I am getting most anxious to be there once more. John sent Jem the halfcaste to meet Tom Kerr, who was to be at the Hurunui last night with the waggon. The three men arrived who have land down by the Motunau River. They

talk of settling there at once, but I do not see how they are to make a living. The carpenter is busy nailing our boxes down. Mr Duppa left this morning for town. Jem came back, having met a man who told him he saw Kerr at the 'Waiau' last night trying to cross, but it was too high.

About 10 o'clock tonight Charley and Kerr arrived, they had been expecting to meet Jem all the way, as Kerr does not know the road to Glendhu.

6. Fine but windy. Miss Gray not so well as yesterday, she does not wish to keep me here, as she knows I do not like the children to go without me, but she does not expect to be able to go herself. I kept poultices to her throat all day. Johnnie and Robert were both so restless last night, I gave them each a powder this morning. John and Charley rode out to muster the 'Vulcan'. Black Billy and another man from Leithfield. The three land-holders left today, for Kaiapoi.

7. Fine. Miss Gray was so poorly last night I feared I must remain here with her, but she was better this morning and in better spirits so I left with the children about 9 o'clock. We all rode to the fence on horse-back, Agnes on 'Zuleika'

carrying Johnny, Aggie with Kerr, Charley with George the halfcaste, Charlie on Collie's horse. I followed on the Parson with John on Spring. When we got to the fence we found two of the horses were away but Charley and George soon found them and off we started in the waggon. John went with us as far as Glendhu and then turned back to Motunau. We got on very well though the road was certainly very rough and up and down very steep hills, but Kerr drove very carefully. We reached the tent at the 'Hurunui' about 7 o'clock and enjoyed some Tea and Cold Tongues and Scones. Then we made our beds and settled for the night. Kerr and Charley slept in the waggon. The air was very warm and sultry and plenty of mosquitoes flying about.

8 (Sunday). Fine. Got up at 4 o'clock. Had breakfast, put up our things and started – crossed the 'Hurunui' about 6, it was quite low. We got along well this morning, the road being good. Mrs Hartland met us at the 'Waiau'. She, Annie and John got into the waggon and Willy, Ally and Tom got out and walked with William and Redgie (who has been staying at Parnassus since Charley came over for us). It was not quite 11 when we reached the house. Everyone seemed

very glad to see us back again. We stayed till after dinner and reached home at last about half past 4. Jane met us at the top of the gully and very pleased she looked to see us back at last. The house was beautifully clean and how nice it was to be at home again. William Thomson met with an accident this evening, he was climbing one of the birch trees and the branch broke and down he fell; he was almost stunned and his nose and chin were badly grazed.

I had a walk round the garden with Charley, the trees seem to have grown very much since I left. Johnny did not seem to remember the place at first, the first thing he seemed to know was the lolly cupboard. Mr Pasley from the Kaikoras.

9. Fine and hot. Mr Busk arrived soon after breakfast, he was at Ferniehurst last night, he and Mr Pasley went on to town. Mr Busk is going to England. I took Johnnie up with me to see Mrs Thomson, she was busy washing. Mrs Curle and Mrs Gibson helped Jane and Agnes to pick black currants. I helped them pick raspberries. Mr Baker came up from Parnassus this evening.

10. Fine and hotter than ever. Commenced to make raspberry and black currant vinegar. Mrs Gibson and Maggie went home. Charley and

Mr Baker went to the Mendip to measure the fence. Price passed on his way to Cheviot Hills. Kerr started with four horses to be shod. 'Skim-milk' brought in with a heifer calf, brown and white.

11. Fine and not quite so hot as yesterday. The Dr and Mrs Hartland came up, she rode 'Fairy Queen'. After they left I walked with Charley to see Tom Kerr's house. George the halfcaste went to the beach. Postman came. I had a letter from John. He went to town the day after we left Motunau, he is better. Miss Gray was also better.

'Lucy' brought in with a bull calf red and white.

12. Fine, not so hot early in the morning but intensely afterwards. Mrs Curle came down and picked cherries and currants. I bottled some and made some into jam. A. Baker and William went with Charley up the hill for sheep for killing. The Doctor was up this afternoon for Jem to make some splints, a poor man at the 'Mendip' had the misfortune to break his leg today. Mr Mirehouse from town – he brought letters from John and Agnes. Three of the shearers and two other men from Motunau. Miss Gray is much better and ready to come over. Mr Baker took

horses to the Waiau and helped the men over – it was late before he got back. Miss Ford and Annie went to Cheviot Hills today.

13. Mr Mirehouse and Mr Baker started for town. I wrote to John and Agnes. Made 33 lbs of black currant jam and 11 of raspberry, not counting sugar, of which I only put half the quantity, because it is wet with salt water. It has been very hot all day. A man came today from Culverden with letters from John, Mcllraith and Agnes Thomson, begging me to go down to town on Monday, as there are to be very gay doings. I felt sorry at first as I could not see how to refuse, without giving offence, but after thinking it over, I decided not to go as Miss Gray is not here to take care of the children. Mr Illingworth here on his way to town.

14. Fine and hotter than ever. Boiled 15 pints of raspberry vinegar and 47 1/2 of black currant. Jane and I were both quite tired of squeezing the fruit. Mr Illingworth left for town. I wrote by him to John and Agnes – to tell them I could not go down next week. Charley went up the hill for the rams. Set 'Fancy' on 10 turkey eggs. Kerr came home from the blacksmith's.

15 (Sunday). Fine and hot. The musterers in

with the sheep. Charley and William met them up the hill. More shearers from Motunau. Mr Bruce writes that Miss Gray is quite well and anxious to come over. Curle's brother arrived, having just come out in the Eastern Empire. Agnes went to see him, instead of going for a walk with us. Had prayers.

16. Fine, hot morning. The boys went with Charley to the yards and got quite wet for it rained very fast and kept on all day. Tom Ford came up this morning to say the little racing mare 'Aggie Scott' is ill and very lame. Mr Hartland has just lost a good mare of the Fever. Mr Waddington came up from Parnassus to tune the Piano. He played and sang a good deal this evening, he is quite an accomplished musician. Charley is in bad spirits, having had a bad accident at the yards, with its being so excessively hot, 65 sheep got smothered.

17. Showery morning. Mr Waddington left. We lent him 'Lieutenant' as far as Barnett's, so that he will be there ready for John when he comes up. William Thomson went to Parnassus for clamps. The boys down at the yards all day. Charley filled the pens with sheep, hoping to begin shearing tomorrow. Kerr left for Motunau

to bring Miss Gray. He could not cross the Waiau this morning but will try again this evening.

18. Fine, warm north wester. Began shearing, 235 done before breakfast. Mrs Hartland is unwell so I went to see her today. William Thomson drove me in the gig. Mrs Hartland is rather better, but not able to be about – we got home soon after five. Went up to the shed afterwards and called at the Gardener's. Postman came, I have a letter from my dear husband, still expecting me down as last evening, I fear he would be greatly disappointed when he found I was not going. 1 I hope he would not be displeased at my refusing, I am thankful to hear he was not really hurt when the coach upset. 2

19. Fine. Both postmen left. I wrote to John, Mother and Jane. Bill Anderson had a letter to say his wife was ill so he left with Blick this morning. We had a regular turnout of all the boxes upstairs this morning, and every corner washed, also put up the new curtains in the sittingroom. When all was done I took Johnnie up to see the sheep shorn, poor little fellow he fell nearly the whole way down stairs this morning, he was frightened and cried for some time, but I am thankful to say he was not hurt. Rather more

than 1000 sheep shorn today though three or four of the men knocked off with sprained wrists. Expected Miss Gray tonight but she did not come.

20. Fine. Curle and others started to muster the Waiau sheep. Charley took on another shearer. William is branding, Charley has to mind the shearing, help brand and get in sheep when wanted. Mr Dobson had breakfast here, having been to the pine bush for two bullocks. Mr Pasley from town, he saw John for a minute. The Champion Race was won by 'Ladybird' and not by 'Otto' as John expected, so he has lost money. 3 Charley pinched his finger very badly, it was after dark when he and William came for tea. Mr Pasley went as far as Ferniehurst on his way to the Kaikoras. I made 13 lbs of raspberry and 12 lbs black currant, besides boiling up what I did with the wet sugar. There was a splendid comet seen tonight. 4

21. Fine. Charley's finger pained him so much he got very little sleep, he is very unwell. Mrs Curle helped to pick fruit. Boiled 36 lbs of currants, 4 pints of jelly, 3 lbs of raspberries. George the halfcaste offended, and left. Gave little Charley a powder as he is not well; he has Diarrhoea

and so has Johnnie. I thought Miss Gray would have been here tonight but I suppose the rivers are still high.

22 (Sunday). Fine and very hot. We all went with Charley down the dipping gully and up the other side, and brought up some sheep for tomorrow – found Tom Kerr here when we came home. Mr Bruce, Mr Coster and Miss Gray came to the Hurunui with him, but it was so high they could not cross in the carriage so turned back and went to Stonyhurst. I have letters from Mother and Mrs Sanderson. Had prayers.

23. Fine. Kerr started with 6 Bales of wool to the beach, 5 came back tonight. Musterers in at Brookdale. Charley rode down this evening after the shearers left off, he says the sheep from the Waiau look beautiful. I had face ache very badly last night and this morning caused by a gum-boil.

24. Fine and very hot. Made 44 lbs of black currant jam. Redgie has a bad headache. Mr Hartland called on his way to and from Ferniehurst. Mr Hogg from Highfield. Miss Gray got here at last, with Mr Bruce and Mr Coster, they left Stonyhurst at 8 o'clock this morning. John arrived just before tea-time, from Culverden today, he is very unwell though I am sorry to say.

I am grieved to hear that Willie's school master the Revd Chas. Alabaster died on the 18th of lingering consumption. Mr Hogg had service in the kitchen-it was well filled. 6

25. Fine and very hot. Redgie still poorly. Mr Hogg went on to Parnassus. Mr Bruce to Motunau, gave him a large tin full of jam, and a cheese. Charley and William went to the Boat Harbour and back. Tohn paid off John McCrae and T. White.

26. Fine and very hot. Mr Coster went to Brookdale to tail some sheep, Charley also went down there and back. John rode out on Lieutenant. Miss Gray had a walk all round this morning and picked currants in the afternoon. Mrs Curle helped Jane and Agnes pick also.

27. Wet. Mr Hartland up here early this morning to go to the beach, his vessel being there, but as it was so wet he turned back. Alick McLean from Motunau, he went to Brookdale. Charley rode down there and at John's desire invited a Mr Wakefield who is surveying the Telegraph line to come up to dinner this evening which he did – we had a Turkey and Apple Pie.

28. Showery morning, fine after. John went

to see the sheep cross the Waiau that have just started for Motunau. Mr Hartland up early.

29 (Sunday). Fine but chilly. My dear boy Willie left today with Redgie and Ally for school – he was rather dull about it but did not say so, they will all sleep in John's tent tonight, where he camps with the sheep, and go down by the coach from the Hurunui on Tuesday. I went on the hill by the Coldstream and watched them till they were out of sight. Miss Gray, children and I walked down the flat to meet Charley who went for sheep. When we got back, I went in to the gardener's and found a little daughter just born, Mrs Curle having been all alone with Mrs Thompson, the Dr got here about an hour after. I stayed till the baby was dressed and Mrs T. comfortable. Mr Varley came; he has something to do with the Electric Telegraph. Had prayers.

30. Fine but cool. Went up to see Mrs Thompson, found her very comfortable – she had a good night. Mr Wakefield up to dinner. Miss Gray commenced school with the children, she helped me pick currants in the afternoon. John returned this morning, he is not so well and had to go to bed early.

31. Fine and pleasant. Up early, John better,

he helped to brand some colts before breakfast. Agnes and Jane stayed up all night washing and finished ironing before they went to bed tonight. Mr Wakefield here this evening. John not so well again towards night. Mr and Mrs Hartland up today. The Dr called and stayed tea. Aggie complaining of sore throat and headache.

Wednesday, 1 February 186

Fine, cool morning. Aggie better, gave her some Senna. Postman came, got letters from Jane, Mother, Mrs Greenwood and cousins Fanny and Maryanne with Rebecca's to Jane, also cartes des visites of Aunt Susan, Fanny and Sarah. When I went to see Mrs Thompson I found her up to my great astonishment. Davie back from the Hurunui – he says the boys went off in the coach in good spirits.

2. Fine. Postman left. Wrote to Mother, Jane and Mrs Lee. Miss Gray and I went up to the shed and called on Mrs Thompson. John gave the shearers a glass of grog each to pay Miss Gray's footing he said. Mr Saunders of Nelson dined with us and went on to the Mendip. He came back tonight and gave John a Hydropathic Bath

viz packed him in wet sheets, he believes if he would persevere in the cold water system he would find great benefit.

3. Fine. There was a shower of rain early this morning. Mr Saunders left for Parnassus before breakfast. John feels much better – he sponged himself with cold water directly he got out of bed. Two of Mr Saunders' men had breakfast and got provisions for the road. John, Mr Varley and Charley went to the beach and back. Tom complaining of headache today.

4. Fine, very hot. Jane has a boil under her arm which is very painful. Mr Hartland came up. John had the wet sheets tonight. Tom Kerr and Charley attended him.

5 (Sunday). Fine. Mr Wakefield dined and had tea with us. Miss Gray and I called to see Mrs Thompson. Charley went to Parnassus. Mr Dobson came back with him. Had prayers.

6. Fine. Mr Illingworth came while we were at breakfast – he and Mr Varley went on to the Kaikoras, they passed the telegraph poles before they left. John left for Motunau and Town – he took Jemmy with him. Charley went and saw them over the river. T. Kerr started for the car-

riage. Strong N.W. tonight many Apples blown down.

7. Fine. Boiled 58 pints of black currant vinegar. Kerr brought home the carriage – he thinks John would get to Motunau last night. Went to the garden just before tea and had a few plums. They have shorn 1324 sheep today which makes more than 16,000 altogether.

8. Fine and intensely hot. I have a disagreeable headache. Postman came. I have letters from Mother and Eliza, the boys reached town quite safely on the Tuesday. I wonder I have no letter from Jane this week.

9. Fine. Postman left – wrote to Mother, Jane, Eliza, Aunt Mary, Fanny, Maryanne and Christine also to Willie. Tom commenced to learn Music.

10. Fine. Boiled the black currant vinegar which was made with the white wine vinegar – there are 30 bottles. Jemmy the man who went with John, came tonight with the Motunau carpenter – he brought me a letter from John who leaves for Timaru tomorrow. Maggie Curle hurt her arm by falling over the shafts of the dray.

11. Fine. Mary Arkle called on her way to Brookdale. The carpenter repaired the shelves in the dairy. Mr Pasley from Parnassus.

12 (Sunday). Fine. Miss Gray and I took Johnnie in his carriage down the paddock. Jane and Agnes took him out after. Wm Gray and Jem brought us a fine Arbuka. Had prayers.

13. Fine. Jane and Agnes up soon after midnight washing. Mr Pasley over to the Mendip and back to dinner. Charley is complaining that he has a bad attack of Indigestion tonight.

14. Fine. Mr Pasley left early for Parnassus. Mrs Hartland, William and Mr Dobson came up just before dinner and stayed till after tea as Mr Dobson was helping Charley to make out the men's accounts. I walked across the gully with Mrs Hartland and then we found the horses were away so we waited nearly an hour till Mr Dobson and Charley caught two of them, but 'Fairy' they could not find. Old Bill came from Parnassus on Truman so Mrs Hartland rode him home. Shearing finished early today.

15. Fine and warm. Mrs Hartland and the children arrived in the cart about 11 o'clock. Miss Ford, Mr Pasley and the Dr on horseback. Post-

men came, I have two letters from Jane and one from Redgie. Mr Harrison and Mrs William McCrae's father came. Mrs Hartland and the children went home before dark, Miss Gray and Aggie with them. Miss Ford and the others stayed till the moon rose and we had some music and singing. Mr Maxwell and Mr Chas Russell were here too and rode home with them.

16. Charley drove us all to Parnassus, me, children and Agnes. Mrs Hartland would have us promise if we went home tonight that we would meet them tomorrow at the bush to collect ferns, but we did not think we could do that, so after several discussions we agreed to stay all night. Charley went home and came back later. The Dr, Mr Pasley, Mr Russell and Mr Maxwell left this morning for St Leonard's.

17. Fine. There was a shower of rain before daylight. Charley drove me, Mrs Hartland, Miss Gray, Aggie and Charley to the bush; we went down into the gully, and wandered through it, collecting some very nice specimens but no new varieties, we had some sandwiches &c about 1 o'clock and then climbed to the top of the gully again, we found the sun had come out and was shining so brightly, the heat was most intense –

we were very thankful when we got back into the house. Mrs Hartland enjoyed the ride in the carriage. The bullock-driver brought word that the vessel was close in, so Charley drove us quickly home, and went to the beach himself and Kerr after tea.

18. Fine, very hot – makes my head ache and makes me feel very lazy. Finished reading East Lynne 7 which I like very much. Agnes and Jane took the children out and Miss Gray and I picked up a great quantity of Apples and Plums. Sent a jar of raspberry jam to Mrs Alabaster and one of black currant to Mrs Coster by the vessel.

19 (Sunday). Fine and very hot. Miss Gray has a bad headache. Mr Dobson from Parnassus. Sent some Plums and Apples back by him. Had prayers.

20. Dull morning which soon changed to rain and got heavier towards noon. They shipped all the wool and finished landing the goods by 2 o'clock yesterday. Curle and the musterers came in last night.

21. Wet nearly all day but much smaller rain than yesterday. Tom and Davie came up with the drays. Some woodhens have destroyed the two pea-hen eggs 'Caroline' was sitting on. The

two little English Linnets came up today, and some balls for the children, a horse for Johnnie.

22. Very wet all day. Postman came. The English mail is early this time. I have letters from Uncle John, Aunt Mary and Annie Hensman and from Mother and Jane – none from my dear husband. Mr Dobson up for the mail, he says Mrs Hartland is in great anxiety at Mr Hartland not being home on Tuesday as he promised. Old Cadman is at the Hurunui dangerously ill, not expected to live. The dogs at the hut did lots of mischief for us this morning early, they killed four young turkeys, a hen and the only pea-chick we had, besides hurting the bantam cock very much. Had a bad headache all day – this is the 3rd day of it.

23. It did not rain when we got up this morning, and much colder, so we hoped it would clear up, but about 9 o'clock it began to rain afresh. Postman left, sent letters to Mother, Jane, Redgie and Mr Greenwood. The Bantam all right today. 'Lizzie' in with a calf.

24. Fine and warm again. Made 36 lbs of Plum Jam today of those that fell off in the wet. Miss Gray and I went up to see Mrs Thompson's

baby, it has not grown much. Charley killed Hearty for beef.

25. Fine but windy. Mr Hartland and William dined here. I am sorry to hear poor old Cadman died at the Hurunui on Wednesday of English Cholera. John had not come from Timaru when Mr Hartland left town. The men are shearing Stragglers, a good many are off to the diggings. 8 Miss Gray and I picked nearly all the Plums as it looked so much like rain – the children picked up a great many Apples from under the trees.

26 (Sunday). Fine. Agnes and Jane took the children for a walk. Miss Gray and I and the two Charley's went to the Monument and round by T. Kerr's house. Had prayers.

27. Fine but cloudy. This is our 10th wedding day and Charley's 24th birthday, gave the servants all something to drink our health in this evening. Several of the men left this morning for the diggings Munro amongst them without saying a word about it or settling up either although he was engaged by John as Shepherd for six months. The immense iron tank that has been lying at the beach so long, was landed at the Dip at last, but the bullocks broke four chains in drawing it up the gully.

28. Fine and very hot. Made 31 lbs of Plum Jam, but I had such a bad headache, I could hardly keep up. I had to give in at last and just lie still with a wet handkerchief round my head. Had pancakes for dinner but I could not enjoy them.

Wednesday, 1 March 1865

Fine and warm again. My head better this morning, but it ached a little during the day, and badly tonight. Made 40 lbs of Apple Jam and 7 of Jelly. Old Bill left for Motunau and town. Postman came. I have letters from Jane and John. He will not be home before the 10th but his health is good, which I am very glad to hear. The Dr came for the mail. Mr and Mrs Hartland went to Cheviot Hills yesterday and are to return today. Carpenter finished the yard and began to alter Charley's room. Agnes took the children to the bottom of the flat and they gathered a quantity of Mushrooms. Mr Harrison came with Blick.

2. Fine. Postman left, wrote to John, Mother, Jane and Willie. Mr Harrison left for town; sent a small parcel by him to Mother. The carpenter finished Charley's room and went to Kerr's house. Charley away about the Telegraph Poles and

afterwards to Parnassus for 'Help', who has been away there with Jock lately. Made 76 lbs of Apple Jam and 54 of Jelly. Agnes took the children for a walk.

3. Fine. Jane and Agnes with Charley and Johnnie went down to the scrub yards to look for Mushrooms, Tom and Aggie were to follow them after school but they did not like to go alone – however they got very few mushrooms after all. I pickled a jar of small onions. Mr Holdernesse from St Leonards. Charley rode round by Rutherford's bush and up the 'Leader', he brought back 'Lizzie' and some more cattle. Miss Gray had a very bad headache tonight.

4. Fine. Pickled some more onions and made some chutney. John Boys from town, he brought a pair of boots for Johnnie and a note from Mr Mirehouse to say he and Mrs Thomson will be at the 'Waiau' today. Charley and Mr Holdernesse went to meet the musterers. One of the 'Linnets' died tonight. Mr Mirehouse and Mrs Thomson got here just after tea, they left town on Thursday afternoon.

5 (Sunday). Fine. Mr Dobson brought us a nice basket of Peaches. Charley and Mr Holdernesse got home to dinner. 'Tulip' calved this

evening, to our great surprise for Mrs Curle milked her up to a few days ago. Had prayers.

6. Fine. Mr Holdernesse left early. Charley to Brookdale to draft the sheep. Mr Mirehouse took us all for a drive, we called at Ferniehurst, Mrs Gibson was not there, but Mary made us some tea. We enjoyed the ride very much, but an accident happened which might have been serious. Just as we had crossed one of the streams of the 'Conway', the back seat gave way and Mrs Thomson, and Miss Gray (who had Johnnie in her lap), were thrown out on to the stones, fortunately they were not a bit hurt, and laughed at the mishap. Mr Mirehouse tied the seats fast in at Gibson's and we came home all right. Charley up from Brookdale tonight, one of the men brought a lot of mushrooms.

7. Fine. Mr Mirehouse drove to Cheviot Hills and brought home two of our Rams. Mrs Thomson went with me and the children to the sheep-dipping process.

8. Fine. Mr Mirehouse and Charley after cattle, they brought home some steers, but not the heifer they were looking for. Mrs Thomson and I called in at the Gardener's and Curle's and walked along to Kerr's house. Postman came. Had letters

from John, Mother, Jane and Mrs Alabaster. Looking like rain tonight, there was a shower before bedtime.

9. Dull dripping morning. Postman left – wrote to Mother, John, and Jane also to Uncle John and Annie Hensman. Had a bullock killed for Beef. We thought the rain would clear off, so as we promised to go to Parnassus, we started, Mrs Thomson and I with Mr Mirehouse driving – it rained faster before we got there and did not stop all day, so we could not go home tonight. We had a nice lot of Music and singing, and Mrs Thomson netted some sleeping caps.

10. Still pouring with rain. The 'Leader' very high indeed, Mr Mirehouse determined to go home this afternoon on horseback but he actually had to turn back, so we shall have to stay another night.

11. Fine at last. We started home after breakfast – the 'Leader' is still high, nearly up to the top of the wheels but we crossed all right. Mrs Hartland gave us a lot of Peaches and two more white fantail pigeons. The children were pleased to see us back, they have been very good Miss Gray says. Charley has a bad headache.

12 (Sunday). Fine. Kerr left for town, wrote to

John by him. Mrs Thomson, Miss Gray and I took Johnnie in his carriage down the paddock; he afterwards went with the girls. Charley walked up the monument hill with me and Mrs Thomson. Mr Dobson here to tea. Had prayers.

13. Fine. Mrs Thomson and I put up the Apples out of the dairy, in the store and afterwards picked the ripest Pears – we got wet before we finished, for there was a sharp shower, and it kept on raining most of the evening. Mrs Curle very unwell.

14. Fine. Mr Mirehouse and Charley rode up the 'Leader', and round by One Tree Hill. The horse dray went to the beach with the last five bales of wool. I trimmed my grey straw hat this afternoon with the straw trimming.

15. Fine but cloudy and when we got up this morning there was a dense fog. We hesitated about going to the beach, thinking it would rain, but at last we started, at about 11 o'clock. Mrs Thomson, Miss Gray and I, Aggie, Tom and Charley, Mr Mirehouse driving. Charley rode with us to the fence and opened the gate for us – the 'Conway' was very high indeed, we crossed the stream 27 times. We took bread and cheese &c with us and had our dinner in Price's house,

Mrs Gibson and Mrs Arkle making many apologies for not being better provided, but tea was all we required of them. Miss Gray found some ferns and we went on the beach and got some nice sea-weed. We started at 1/2 past 3 for home, Mr Hartland close behind us – in coming out of the gorge, the horse could hardly mount the steep bank and the water came into the carriage. We got home before 6 o'clock. Mr Hartland stayed to tea – we had roast ducks. Postman came late, I have letters from Mother and John, he was to be in Christchurch yesterday.

16. Fine and hot. Mrs Thomson and Mr Mirehouse left this morning about 9 o'clock. Postman left – wrote to John, Mother and Willie. Charley brought in 'Flora' and 'Jenny' with calves – he engaged a new man cook for the hut.

17. Dull morning very misty after 9 o'clock. This is my dear Willie's 9th birthday. I sincerely wish him many happy returns of the day. We picked up and put away several baskets full of Apples today.

18. Fine. Miss Ford rode up with the Dr this afternoon. Mr Coster came from Motunau with letters from John, desiring me to go down to meet him when he got up from Timaru, but as the

letters did not reach me sooner, I do not think he will now expect me.

19 (Sunday). Fine. Miss Gray and I took Johnnie and the others into the paddock till Agnes and Jane were ready to take them for a walk. Had prayers.

20. Fine. Mr Coster and Charley went out for bullocks, and afterwards to the Waiau Island for a cow to kill – they could not find 'Topsy' but brought a steer instead. Mr Hogg came from Highfield via Mendip and Ferniehurst, he had service this evening, and baptized the gardener's baby, by the name of 'Ellen'.

21. Fine. Mr Robert Laurie and a Mr Cator, a friend of the Mr Hanmer who used to live here, 9 came from Parnassus this morning. The servants and children went down the flat for Mushrooms, they only filled one basket, but we had a dish full of them fried for tea. Jem and John Tumeru brought us two nice Barracouta.

22. Fine but cloudy. Mr Laurie and Mr Cator left for Culverden. Gathered an immense lot of Apples off the ground and put them upstairs. Postman came. I have letters from Jane, Miss Thomson and John who says he is certain to be here tomorrow with Mr Aynsley and others. Mr

Illingworth came. Miss Gray busy with her ferns and seaweed. Two Jews here tonight hawking goods.

23. Wet all day, very small rain – sometimes I thought it would not prevent John from coming, so I had a Turkey cooked all ready for them, but they did not come after all. Mr Harrison and his daughter came from the Waiau Accommodation House.

24. Fine but cloudy. Mr and Miss Harrison left for the Kaikoras. John and Mr Aynsley arrived just at dusk and directly after Mr Fyffe and his friend Captn Robinson came. John has brought the children's Boots and some nice Jackets &c for me. Our little Johnnie is 21 months old.

25. Fine and warm. John and Mr Aynsley rode down to the beach and back. Charley went part of the way with them. Mr and Mrs Hartland and Mr Nosworthy rode up this afternoon.

26 (Sunday). Wet all day. John very unwell not able to get up all day. The gentlemen could only sit by the fire and read. I had prayers in the kitchen tonight with Charley, Miss Gray and the servants.

27. Fine day though the morning was dull

and cloudy. Mr Fyffe and Captain Robinson left for town – they snared two Paradise Ducks this morning but one got away. John and Mr Aynsley rode down to Parnassus this evening – we had tea before they came home thinking they would take theirs there but they did not.

28. Fine but cloudy and cold. John and I and Mr Aynsley started for town, my dear children had no idea I was going, I could not bear to tell them so I sent them down the flat with Agnes for mushrooms after they had their breakfast. Charley drove me in the carriage, John and Mr Aynsley riding on horseback. We had lunch in the 'Stanton', we found the cuttings in a bad state, but I walked up and down most of them and we got to Morris's all right. 10 The Waiau was too high for the carriage so they took it off the wheels and crossed all in the boat. Tom McDowell got into the carriage there as he is going to town. Charley soon left us and went to Culverden. John then drove, it got dark soon afterwards and I do not know how John managed to guide the horses. At last we saw lights and then Tom got out and led the horses, and Mr Aynsley struck a match to see if we were on the track. However we got to the house at last and I was very glad indeed,

my head ached so much. Mr Nosworthy and Mr Holdernesse were not at home but Mr Laurie did all in his power to make us comfortable. Mr Pasley was there.

29. Fine morning. I thought of my dear children the first thing when I woke. Mr Mcllraith and Charley came over to breakfast, I wrote a note to Miss Gray to send by the latter. We left before 10 o'clock, Tom McDowell with us. We crossed the Hurunui in Barnett's boat, 11 Tom drove the carriage over. Had dinner at the Weka Pass; saw Kerr there, he put his wife and children into lodgings and is going up for the waggon: he has got 'Victoria' and the other mares. Andrew Curle on the road with sheep, we did not see him. Tom McDowell went to help him over the Waikari. Got to Leith's before dark. 12 I counted the diggers we met between here and the Pass, there were 84 besides some in Coaches. 13 Mr Sanderson had tea with us. Mr Cator came in afterwards. I was much interested in a book called Adele. 14

30. Fine. Had a nice breakfast of boiled ham and boiled eggs. John got both horses shod and we left directly after breakfast. We called at the Salt Water Creek and saw Mrs Stackwood

(Sarah), she has three nice children, the eldest is just like the Matthias family. Had lunch at the Pier Hotel, Kaiapoi, Captn Weekes joined us. Had a chat with Revd Mr Willock and Dr Dudley. 15 We reached Scottstoun about 4 o'clock, Mrs Thomson was so astonished to see us, Eliza and Agnes are staying in Port. Mr Thomson is very unwell. John went into town and back. We met 94 diggers today.

31. Fine. John went to town after breakfast. I am not very well today, had to lie down in the afternoon. Mrs Sefton Moorhouse called on Mrs Thomson.16 Mr Fyffe's run was sold by auction this morning, he bought it himself – John going security. 17 My dear Willie came home with David and Ally tonight, he is quite well.

Saturday, 1 April 1865

Cloudy. The boys woke me this morning making April Fools of each other. John drove Mr Thomson and John James into town, he is going into Port and is to join me at Mrs Macdonald's tonight. Mrs Duncan and Mrs Scott called just before lunch. Mr Mirehouse drove me and Mrs Thomson into town, we went first to Strange's, 18

and I bought a bonnet and lace shawl &c – we then called on Mrs Treherne, poor thing she is very ill, and her breath comes so quickly and hard. Mrs T. left me here, and when Mr Treherne came, I walked home with Mrs Macdonald – the baby is a beautiful boy, he can say several words and almost walk.

2 (Sunday). Fine – the morning was very cold but it was very warm afterwards. I went with John and Mrs MacDonald to the Scotch church this morning, Mr Frazer preached an excellent and heartstirring sermon from Matth. 16. 20. 19 Spoke to Mrs Deans, Mrs Graham and Mrs Frazer coming out – and to Captain Maclean and wife as we went in. John and Duncan walked over to see Mrs Treherne after dinner, they thought her looking very ill and in low spirits.

3. Fine. John went out directly after breakfast, he brought me letters from Miss Gray and all my little pets (they are all well), and from Mrs Lee, Miss Ford, Redgie, Christina and Helen. Wrote to Jane. Captain Robinson left for the Kaikouras, so John wrote to Charley and I to Miss Gray and sent some birdseed by him. Mr Greenwood called to see me and gave me two bottles of Eau De Cologne. Mr Mirehouse, Mrs Thomson, Geor-

giana and Alice came for me in their carriage just before lunch, after which they drove me to Mrs Aynsley's. Mrs Strange Williams was spending the day with Mrs Aynsley – her husband came for her about 5 o'clock. John and Mr Aynsley did not get home to dinner till 1/2 past 6. We had a little music. There are four such nice children, Harry, Percy, Athol and the baby.

4. Fine. John and Mr Aynsley went up to town by train. 20 Mrs Richardson brought her baby and stayed to lunch – her baby's name is Frances Edith. Miss Coster and Mrs Kissling came up, and Mrs Aynsley and I walked back with them, to apologise to Mrs Coster for John and I not going to spend the night there as we had promised. John called for us, and Mr Aynsley hurried us off and rowed us home in his boat, the wind was very high.

5. Fine. Mr Aynsley rowed John, MrsAynsley and I to the Opawa station in the boat – from there we went up by train into ChCh. We walked up from the station – the first thing we heard was that Mr Templer had broken his collarbone last night. I went to Gould's and chose some boots and clothes for the children and Charley, 21 and then John asked Mr Mirehouse to drive me

to the Toll-Bar where Merson is. 22 I found him alone as Jane was away sending the man home for things. I sat with them an hour or two and then I got my carpet-bag from Mrs Thomson's and Mr Mirehouse drove Merson quietly home. Jane drove me. Merson bore the journey better than we expected but he felt more pain after he laid down in bed. Sarah Anne and Jenny are here staying, it is very nice for us to be all together. I waited up till after 11 o'clock waiting for John but he did not come.

6. Fine. Merson had very little sleep. Dr Turnbull came out this morning; 23 he says Merson is doing well. John came out to see him before dinner, after which I went into town with him. Bought some things at Younghusband's. 24 Went round and saw the cavalry at drill, 25 called for Willie and took him with us to Coringa.

7. Dull and drizzling morning. Merson much the same, did not sleep much. John, Willie and I went to Riccarton. John went on into town. Mr and Mrs Guise Brittan, Misses Harriet and Ellen Brittan and Miss Poule came to spend the day with Mrs Deans. 26 Mr Alick Mcllraith took Willie into the garden and they amused themselves picking up Apples. John came for us about

5 and we had tea. Johnny came home from school then. Willie is quite as tall as he is, although nearly three years younger. Revd Mr and Mrs Grant came in just before we left. 27 We went to Scottstoun. Mr Mirehouse gave us tickets for the Theatre and after a great deal of discussion we agreed to go. The Colleen Bawn was the first piece then Little Laura danced the Highland Fling very well and the farce was H.M.S. Spitfire which was very amusing. 28

8. Fine. John went into town directly after breakfast – he came out about 11 o'clock for me and Mrs Thomson went in with us. We did a good deal of shopping. Met Sally and Redgie just as we came out from enquiring for Mrs Treherne. We afterwards called on Mrs Robt Ross and on Mrs Wm McCrae, her husband is so much better for Captn Wilson's treatment. 29 We had quite a carriage load going out tonight, Mr and Mrs Thomson, John and I, Sally, Willy and Redgie. We had a cup of tea at Scottstoun and then went on to Coringa. It was dark when we got there. Merson has been up a little today. We had some Music tonight. John was not well and had to go to bed.

9 (Sunday). Fine. Merson had a better night.

He got up to dinner. John went into ChCh to drive out Mr McCrae as he promised. Jane had prayers. Sally and I meant to have gone to church this afternoon but it was too far to walk either to Papanui or Riccarton and the man was not home in time to drive us. Mr Campbell and Mr Hassel came out tonight just before tea.

io. Fine after about io o'clock, before that it looked very dull. John did not come out, I was to have gone in, but the man had to go on to the Island for sheep so could not drive us. Merson seems much better today, he was reading to us tonight.

11. Fine but it was very cold this morning. The man drove me into town, Willie and Redgie also went to school. Merson slept badly and can feel part of the bone moving about; he was so uneasy that he sent for Dr Turnbull to come out. I went to the Standard Office 30 to wait for John but he was so long I thought I would go out and see if I could fall in with him. I met with Tom Kerr and immediately after John came up. Our dear children were all well when he left home. I have letters from Charley and Miss Gray. I called on Mrs Alabaster and gave her a Cheque for £27 10/- which is for last quarter and the ensuing

one – she gives Willie an excellent character. 31 I did my shopping alone and found my way about the streets better than I expected. John brought Willie's Apples to the school and brought the carriage to the Office for me, Willie came to see me and I gave him the writing case I bought for him. Mr Thomson and William went home with us. Mr Mirehouse and Mr Ollivier dined here; they have been to a sale of horses up country. John not at all well tonight.

12. Fine, though there was a sharp shower of rain after breakfast. Kerr started for Hawkswood, he had quite a menagerie in the waggon, 3 black Swans, 4 Aylesbury Ducks, 2 Bantams and a Dorking cock and the two donkeys behind, also the horse that was hurt last night. John went into town and after an early lunch, William drove me and Mrs Thomson with Georgiana and Alice, Willie, David and Ally, we went first to see Mrs Archie Thomson who was out – then we went to Mrs Duncan's, she was very unwell, not up – then we went to Mrs Sprott's, she has three nice little girls, Hetty, Bessy and Marian the baby, who is to be called Minnie – we went on to Coringa from there. Merson is better, the children had a cup of tea and some bread and butter and then

Mrs Thomson left for fear it would be dark before they got home. Mr Campbell came out tonight.

13. Fine. Mr Mirehouse came out and drove me, Sally and Jenny and Willie up to Rangiora. Mother was very pleased to see us, and little Daisy knew her mamma directly – she is better than she has been but very delicate. Mr Shrimpton was here when we came but he left by the coach. The Dr came to see Daisy today, she took her first dose of Cod Liver Oil, she did not seem to mind it much. Mrs Vincent and her daughter came to enquire after her.

14 (Good Friday). Fine and very hot. Sally and I, Willie, Jenny and Frances went to church this morning. Mr Dudley preached a nice sermon. We all went for a walk this afternoon, met Miss Thompson bringing Freddy home. Mother, Sally, Willie and I went to church tonight, it is more than six years since I went last to evening service.

15. Fine but cloudy and very windy – went with Mother for the milk before breakfast. Daisy is not so well again. Sally, Willie and I went to service this morning, Frances and Freddy also. Saw Miss Dudley. Sent a letter to my dear husband, I should have sent it yesterday, but there

was no post. Mr Dudley called to see me this afternoon. We met John this afternoon as we were going to Mr Howard's – he went on to the 'Lion' and we made haste and called for a few minutes, 32 Miss Lizzie Howard was at home alone. John is not very well, he has got a new horse to match the little cob.

16 (Easter Sunday). Fine but very windy again. Daisy was very sick in the night and again this afternoon after taking the Cod Liver Oil. Sally and Willie, Frances and I went to church this morning, they went home with the servant Eleanora and Sally and I stayed to Communion, there were over 50 stayed. John very bad with Rheumatism – he went to see the Robsons who used to be at Cheviot Hills. 33 Frances and Jenny went with Eleanora to the Sunday School this afternoon. Mother, Sally, Jenny, Willie and I went to church tonight. I hoped John would have gone too but he was not home soon enough.

17. Fine. John and I started early from Rangiora leaving dear Willie to spend the rest of the Easter week here. The new horse goes beautifully. We went round by Mount Grey, and had lunch there, they very much wanted us to stay. 34 Mr John Russell is very ill of Rheumatic Fever – we

met Miss O'Connell and John James Thomson near Brown's Bridge on horseback. 35 Saw Old Bill at the Kowai. Mr Innes rode part of the way with us. Got to the Weka Pass just before dark. There was a poor man killed last night near Rangiora by a dray falling on the top of him.

18. Fine. Left about 9. Met the Hurunui coach. 36 Mr and Mrs Grahame of Riccarton were in it. Called at Horsley Downs and had lunch there – they wanted us to stay. 37 Saw a woman at Barnett's who is going to Cheviot Hills, she was on a very lame horse and a man's saddle and as it was 4 o'clock John was sure she could not get to St Leonard's before dark so he took her into the carriage and told her husband to tell Mr Gerard 38 where she was, and she was very thankful; she is a fellow passenger of the Curles. We got to Culverden early, Mr Nosworthy came in after tea, we had some Music. Old Robert the gardener begged to have a few words with me, and enquired after all the children. I have a bad headache.

19. Fine but cold morning, it got very hot after. We set off for home directly after breakfast. Mr Mcllraith and Mr Nosworthy rode to the wire fence with us – crossed the Waiau in the boat,

had dinner at Morris's. Mrs M. told me of a man having died at Highfield last night. We had to walk up the long cutting, but we got on very well. Met Mr Pasley in the Leader, he took Miss Ford home from Highfield yesterday. We met Mr and Mrs Hartland coming from Hawkswood and then we hastened on – the dear children were so pleased when I went in and had so much to tell me. I kissed my little pet Johnnie who was fast asleep. The postman, Campbell was very impudent to John today.

20. Fine. Sent letters to Mother and Jane. Mr Hogg came, had service tonight. The vessel came to the beach so Charley and the men went down, we packed Apples for Jane, Mr Greenwood and Mrs Treherne.

21. Fine cold morning but quite hot after. John gave the children a holiday and took us all to the beach, we took eatables with us – there is too much surf for the goods to be landed. Mr Dobson has cut his hand very badly. It was quite dark before we got home. Johnnie slept most of the way, but he has been very good. Miss Gray and I have both headaches.

22. Fine. John better, he went to the beach again today taking the musterers so far as they

go – no landing being done, so much surf still. Miss Gray not much better. The Dr and Miss Ford rode up, he went on to Ferniehurst and called for her tonight. I helped Jane and Agnes put away some Apples. Walked up to Kerr's house with Miss Ford and Miss Gray and called and spoke to Mrs Kerr.

23 (Sunday). Fine but cloudy. John very poorly. Miss Gray and I took the children down to the paddock – the girls took them afterwards and got wet coming home. Mr Dobson and Charley up from the beach. Mr D. went home after tea. Had prayers.

24. Fine but cold and dull, wet in the afternoon. Johnnie is a year and ten months old. J. J. Thomson came up for John to go to town at once to settle finally with Mr Greenwood who is leaving on Friday in the Mermaid. 39 Agnes Curle is 18 today. 40

25. Wet all night and all day. John very poorly again, of course they could not start today. Musterers came home. Charley has been shoeing the grey horse, he has got a bad cold. Agnes too has a bad cold and cough.

26. Dull but fine except a shower about 9 o'clock. John and John James Thomson left for

town. Charley went to the bush to pay off one of the men. Mr Dobson up from the beach, the vessel is still round the Bluff, he went home this evening. John Boys came for the Cheviot Hills mail and brought my side-saddle. Postman came. I have only a letter from Jane. Campbell came although John sent word to Barnett to come himself this time. Made two morning pinafores for Johnnie and Miss Gray began Charley's linsey suit.

27. Wet morning. Blick came and went away with the mail. Campbell also left. I wrote to John, and Jane, and Mrs Lee. Charley went to the beach, he came back about eight o'clock, the vessel left about 3. Agnes took the children for a little walk after school. I made Johnnie a warm petticoat and began the second, afterwards had some Music. It was fine all the afternoon and the clothes have dried a little.

28. Fine. Mrs Hartland and the Dr came up. We had a walk round the garden. Charley brought in some sheep for killing. The musterers home, they found no woolly sheep, and all clean. 41 'Watch' and another dog killed a lamb this morning. I finished Johnnie's second petticoat and made him another pinafore. Tom very restless tonight.

29. Cloudy but warm – began to rain in the afternoon and poured all the evening. Made a warm coat for Tom, did a good deal of the slipper and helped Charley to mark all the children's new lambswool socks. Mr Gouch called today on his way to Cheviot Hills for sheep. Charley has been to sow grass-seed on the Brookdale hills and called at Parnassus. Sent 13 Turkeys to Brookdale. Old George planted out some Cabbage plants. The children have bad colds, Johnnie woke up dreadfully hoarse tonight. Miss Gray finished Charley's linsey suit.

30 (Sunday). Very wet all day. The children have all such bad colds, I kept them in the sittingroom all day. Had prayers. It is a nice starlight night so we hope to have a fine day tomorrow.

Monday, 1 May 1865

Fine – it was very cold this morning, quite frosty, and there is a great deal of snow on the hills opposite. Charley went to the beach to see for timber for the fence. Bob White was with him and they brought up some cattle and horses. I finished the first slipper tonight.

2. Fine and frosty. Charley at the yards drafting

sheep. Carpenter mended the kitchen and bedroom windows and put Johnnie's chair together. Had a great many Apples gathered and put them up in the store.

3. Fine but cloudy and dull, showery in the evening. We put more Apples into the store, the winter green ones, so the shelves are all full and there are many still on the trees which must be put upstairs. Postman came. I have letters from Mother and John, he is at Motunau now, Mr Greenwood did not go home in the Mermaid after all. Jemmy went to Motunau with a letter to Mr Bruce. Charley busy at the dip all day. John tells me Willie was very unwell last week but was better on Sunday, poor boy I hope he is all right again now.

4. Dull and cloudy. Up early so that Charley had finished breakfast and started to the Dip before 8 o'clock. I helped Agnes to sort the boxes upstairs this morning and this afternoon I worked half the 2nd slipper. The children took Johnnie out in his carriage a little while, but it was too raw and cold for him to stay long. Wrote to Mother and Willie by post today. Jemmy back from Motunau, he brought a letter from John to tell me to go to Culverden tomorrow with

Charley, as Mrs Mcllraith is very ill, having been confined prematurely of a dead baby.

5. Cloudy morning but Charley and I started for Culverden about 9 o'clock. The mist soon cleared away and it was quite hot all day. The new horse lost a shoe soon after we got into the 'Leader', we got another put on by Morris, the carriage had to be crossed in the boat which hindered us a long time, the sun set just as we started from the 'Waiau' and the horse we found was lame in the off hind leg. Charley thinks he must have kicked it with the other foot or rather the nail. There was a good moon but it was cold and frosty, it was 8 o'clock when we got to Culverden. Mrs Deans arrived on Wednesday and Johnnie. 42 Mrs Mcllraith is very weak still and frets a good deal about the baby not living.

6. Wet so we could not go home today. Mrs Mcllraith much the same, had a bad headache most of the day. I slept so late this morning that Mrs Deans brought me my breakfast in bed.

7 (Sunday). Still wet, the creeks are very high and the Hurunui and Pahau look very high indeed. Mrs Mcllraith rather better though she complained of headache this evening.

8. Fine at last. We started about 9 o'clock. Mrs

Mcllraith much better this morning; she is to get up today if it keeps fine and warm. Our horse is still lame so Mr Mcllraith kindly lent us one of his. We got to the 'Waiau' at a 1/4 past 11, it was so high and thick Morris grumbled at taking us over – he wanted to ride the horses but his wife wouldn't let him, so they tried to tow them behind but could not manage it, so Charley was vexed and rode them over himself. Left the 'Waiau' at 20 minutes past 1. The 'Stanton' was tremendously high and thick up to the axle in most of the streams and rushing along like a sea, we got into a little difficulty going up one of the cuttings, and at last Charley took them up the side which was very steep but they managed it. It was dark before we got out of the 'Leader' but we got safely home by 20 minutes past 7. Thank God for it. The children are all well and have been very good. The only trouble they have had is the 'Lark' flew away on Friday out of the hole he drinks out of, whilst Miss Gray was getting him water.

9. Fine warm day after the frost cleared away, till then it was very cold and so it was towards evening. I took Johnnie in his carriage down the garden and Agnes took him out afterwards. I worked the ground of half the slipper and made a new flannel nightgown for Johnnie and a flan-

nel for myself – afterwards altered a flannel petticoat for Johnnie.

10. Fine, very cold and frosty this morning. I went up to see Mrs Kerr and Mrs Curle after dinner. Mr Dobson up for the mail. English mail arrived at last. I have letters from Christina, Maryanne and William Hensman who is actually thinking of coming out here to settle. I have none from Mother or Jane which I wonder very much at. Heard from John by George Arkle, he says he will not be able to come over till he has been to town and settled his business. I wrote him tonight enclosing a copy of Mr John Tinline's letter. 43

11. Fine. Postmen left. Wrote to John, Jane, Christina and Helen, enclosed a copy of the 'Australasian Galop' to her and a photographed fern. Charley wrote to Mother. He went to join the musterers today, they got into Brookdale tonight, and it is a good thing they did for it rained fast. Miss Gray finished altering Aggie's green frock. I made a blue merino frock for Johnnie and a coat for Tom.

12. Fine. Charley and the men came up from Brookdale tonight. I made the skirt of Aggie's frock and Miss Gray began the body. I have a

bad gum-boil on the right side. Agnes took Johnnie for a walk. Miss Gray and I went round the garden with the other children.

13. Fine. Charley busy at the dip. Sent Jemmy to Motunau with letters to John. Miss Gray finished Aggie's frock. I made two flannels for Johnnie, a flannel nightgown for him and one for myself. We also packed four boxes of Apples. Johnnie's cough is worse tonight.

14 (Sunday). Fine. Miss Gray has such a bad headache she was not able to get up till about 4 o'clock, it was much better this evening. I walked round the garden with all the children, though I am a sort of invalid too having sick headache and rheumatism in my right wrist, it was so bad this morning that I could not dress myself without help from Agnes. Mr Maxwell and Mr Dobson from Parnassus. I got a little bottle of cough mixture for Johnnie from the Dr, he was very sick tonight and brought up some phlegm which relieved him a good deal. Had prayers in the kitchen with Charley, Miss Gray and the girls.

15. Fine but there was a very strong wind in the night, it shook the house. Miss Gray is quite well again, my wrist is better but I have still a sick headache. Mr Dobson and Mr Maxwell left

early for Kaikoura. Charley and the two Curles started with about 3000 sheep for Motunau, one of the bullock teams also – sent a box of Apples to Mrs Sanderson, Mrs Henry, Mrs T. McDonald, Mr Nosworthy and Mr Bruce and to the latter also a cheese and jar of Peach Jam. Mr Pasley from Parnassus. Johnnie not very well. Wrote to John and Mrs Mcllraith by Charley. He took the horse we borrowed, also a box of cocoa.

16. Fine. There was a shower in the night. William the Maori and his wife and several other men and women came on their way from town, we gave them dinner in the kitchen. One of the women had a baby, I gave her some clothes for it. I have a bad headache still, and Johnnie is very poorly, he was very sick again tonight. Finished the second slipper. It rained this evening.

17. Fine. Mr Pasley could not find his horse anywhere today for he intended to leave for home. I lent him one to go to Parnassus tonight as there is a man there waiting to see him. Campbell was very late and after all he had left the Christchurch Bag behind, he went back to look for it but could not find it. I had a letter from Mother and one from Charley. I was sorry to hear the Waiau had

been too high for them to cross with the sheep. He came home about 1/2 past 8. I have had a bad headache again today. Kept Johnnie in all day to see if that will cure his cold. Big Jim collected some seeds from the bush.

18. Fine. Campbell found the bag this morning where he gave A. Rutherford his newspapers. I wrote to John, Jane and Mother by him. Sent John's slippers in the bag as a book packet. The Dr called on his way to Swyncombe. Mr Pasley up to dinner – he went out but did not find his horse. Charley went after cattle and he found the horse down the Conway. It was so fine this afternoon that Miss Gray and I took Johnnie out for an hour in his carriage. I think he is better today, I gave him some senna this morning. Had some Music and singing tonight. This is Miss Gray's birthday. Mrs Curle came to show us her hand, it is dreadfully swelled, but whether from washing or a bite I do not know. I gave her some marsh mallows to bathe it with.

19. Fine but colder than yesterday. Mr Pasley went to Parnassus. Miss Gray and I took Johnnie in his carriage to the bottom of the large paddock. The children went with us. Aggie took the kitten up to Mrs Kerr; they are into the new house today.

Finished Johnnie's linsey frock. Miss Gray finished Aggie's blue one. Mrs Curle's hand is no better, though not so much swelled. Charley killed 'Lizzie' for beef.

20. Fine but very cold. There was a sharp shower of rain this afternoon. Charley left to join the sheep, he thinks the Waiau will be low enough this evening. The cook cut up one Beef and Jane salted it. I am thankful to say my dear little Johnnie is better today, he has more appetite too – little Charley was sick in the night. Made two small bottles of Pomatum of the marrow. This is my dear husband's birthday (not tomorrow), I wish him many happy returns of it. 44

21 (Sunday). Fine but very cold and looking like snow. Had prayers.

22. Fine and mild, quite different to yesterday. I took Johnnie out this morning and again after dinner in his carriage with Miss Gray and the children. The Dr came home this evening; he called here and had tea. I am very sorry to hear that Mrs Weetman died the day after he got there, he saw she could not live at the first glance he says. The baby is very strong and healthy. Mrs Dickenson has kindly taken charge of him and the other little one – poor little things it is very sad for them to be left motherless. 45

23. Wet and snow sometimes. My wrist very painful with rheumatism this morning. The afternoon was quite fine, but very cold. Made some mincemeat, Agnes chopped all the ingredients.

24. Fine but very cold. Queen's Birthday – the first sod of the Southern Railway is to be laid today, and Mr Rolleston is to be married to Miss Brittan. 46 Miss E. Matson and young Cridland were married on the 17th and I am shocked to see by the papers that poor Mrs Traherne died on the same day – she was only 20. I have a letter from Jane enclosing Sissy's, and one from Willy, he does not seem to be quite strong yet, but he is top of his class. The Dr and Mrs Hartland rode up today, they waited for the mail, English mail is due but has not arrived. 28 Letters by ChCh bag, one registered 12 3d for Miss Broadfoot, 2 in Kaiapoi and 2 in Kowai bags – 4d to pay on R. White's. Took Johnnie for a walk.

25. Wet. Blick came bringing 32 letters, gave him 17 to take back. Campbell left. 30 letters for ChCh, 2 to Kaiapoi, 3 to Kowai – sent two packets of native seeds to John. Had a note from Charley, he says he never felt the Waiau so cold, they were in it from 8 in the morning till 4 in the afternoon and he thinks his feet are frostbitten, he has gone on to Motunau.

26. Wet most of the day. Had a bad headache till the evening. Charley arrived about 7 o'clock from the 'Hurunui', he heard from John who told him he would rather the sheep came back than go to Motunau, so they are on their way back. I have a letter from John, he has gone to town, he has been very poorly but is better. Tom McDowal has planted the acorns today.

27. Fine, there was a sharp frost last night. Charley went to Parnassus to give notice to Mr Hartland about the sheep coming back across the run. We took Johnnie in his carriage down the paddock, his cold seems worse tonight. The men have been digging up carrots and Jem took the pumpkins to the store.

28 (Sunday). Fine and quite hot, the snow is melting fast on the hills. I have such a bad headache again I laid on the bed most of the day – it is better this evening. Charley went to the beach and he had a dreadful headache when he came home. Curle and his brother arrived with the sheep tonight. Had prayers.

29. Fine but rather dull morning. Charley drove me and Charley in the gig to Parnassus, we left the top of the gully at 5 minutes to 10, we reached there at 10 minutes to 11, the gig is not

so pleasant to ride in as the carriage. Kerr took home 'Lord Clyde' and the chaff cutter which we are borrowing. Miss Ford traced out the shape of a slipper for Aggie to work for Willie, and began the pattern. We left before 4 and got home about 5. Met Mr Dobson just returned from Picton.

30. Fine but very dull. Charley and I took a blue pill last night, and a dose of senna and rhubarb this morning, which made us both feel very ill today, but I think they will do us good afterwards. Aggie began to learn the stitch for the slipper and also began the garters for a birthday gift to her Grandma.

31. Fine and mild. The Dr and Mrs Hartland came up for the mail. Charley the German bullockdriver who used to live here brought the mail early, as Tom Campbell is ill. I have letters from Mrs Macdonald, Mrs Henry and Jane, also from cousin Rebecca. I have none from John or Mother. Mrs Hartland worked Johnnie some scarlet cloth slippers and has commenced another pair for him all wool work.

Thursday, 1 June 1865

Fine. Morning cold and frosty. Wrote by mail to

John, Mrs Macdonald and Jane enclosing Rebecca's to the latter. T. Ford came up with letters for the mail which were just in time. Charley left for Brookdale before we were up, he came up about 10 o'clock as the sheep are coming to be looked through in the dip yards.

2. Fine. Tom Ford came up to see if any of their sheep were amongst ours. Mr and Mrs Hartland left today for Highfield. Took Johnnie out in his carriage after dinner and also went up to Mrs Kerr's, she has whitewashed the walls and the house looks very nice. I began to read Verner's Pride 47 to Charley and Miss Gray.

3. Fine. Very sharp frost. I and Tom and Charley had a good walk before breakfast. Miss Gray has a very bad headache – not able to have school. The children took care of Johnnie whilst I was busy making jam tartlets for tomorrow's dinner. I also made some potted beef. Charley went to Brookdale.

4 (Whit Sunday). Fine but cold and looking like rain. Aggie is eight years old today. We went for a nice walk taking Johnnie in his carriage and they went with Jane and Agnes afterwards. Had prayers. I have had a headache today as I have had every day for three weeks past.

5. Fine. I had such a pain in my side this morning, I took a dose of Gregory's mixture after breakfast, it made me feel very sick but I think it has done me good. Mr Hogg came this afternoon from Lyndon, he saw Mr and Mrs Hartland at Addington yesterday; 48 they are to go to Culverden today, St Leonard's tomorrow and home on Wednesday. Mr Hogg had service at 1/2 past 7, there was a good attendance. I trust his words will leave an impression for good. David Thomson's 11th birthday.

6. Fine but dull morning. Mr Hogg went to Ferniehurst after breakfast. My head aches again although I took a dose yesterday. Mr Hogg called in to say goodbye on his way to Parnassus. Agnes took Johnnie and Charley for a walk.

7. Fine. Charley away most of the day looking for horses. Campbell here early with the mail – letters from John, Mother and Mrs Mcllraith. Mother enclosed Sissy's carte de visite, and Uncle's letter to Jane. John is not at all well I am sorry to hear and very much annoyed with business. Charley and Andrew Curle have to go to Motunau almost directly. Mr Thomson is seriously ill John says.

8. Fine. Very windy this morning – there was

rain in the night. Blick came and delivered and received the mail. There was a large mail for ChCh being English mail time. I wrote to John, Mother, Jane, J. J. Thomson, Christina (with one from Aggie), Maryanne and Wm Hensman. Sent a book of Seaweeds to Christina, Maryanne and Mary Hannah. Mr Wakefield the Telegraph Surveyor arrived this evening on his way to ChCh. Charley got in Forrester and the others. The Parnassus chimney was on fire, he did not go up to the house.

9. Fine. Mr Wakefield left for ChCh. Charley went to the bush and measured the fence and firewood. I had a bad headache again tonight. Had a walk with the children in the afternoon. Miss Gray did not go out.

10. Fine pleasant day. Got up with the headache as usual. Joe and the cook swept both our chimneys, they got a good deal of soot from both. Charley and Andrew Curle left for Motunau, wrote to John and sent his letter-books. Miss Gray and I had a walk – the children took Johnnie up with them to the shed and Agnes went to them afterwards.

11 (Sunday). Fine but windy. The Parnassus gardener having been to town brought me a letter

from my dear husband and one to Tom, also a a box of cough lozenges for Johnnie, they are not Keatings but I hope will do him good. We all had a walk in the afternoon, it was very cold out of the sun. Had my usual headache nearly all day and it got much worse before tea. Had prayers, It rained very fast for an hour or so.

12. Wet all day and very cold. Jane and Agnes finished washing by 9 o'clock this morning as they were up before 1. Trimmed a hat with mauve colored ribbon for Aggie and put strings to Johnnie's speckled straw one. I have not had quite so bad a headache today.

13. Fine. Jim the carpenter came up from Parnassus – he says Mr Hartland is to leave for town today. I had a walk round the cutting and half way down the paddock this afternoon. I had a headache after breakfast but it got better in the afternoon.

14. Fine. Had porridge for breakfast – had not much headache today. Went for a walk after dinner with the children. Mail arrived between 4 and 5 – letters from John, Jane and Mother – no word of Willy coming up. Curle and the others went to the beach to kill off the pigs – they took a cask to salt the good pork in. Gordon Gibson over for letters.

15. Fine and frosty. Wrote by mail to John, Mother, Jane, J. J. Thomson, Willy, also to ask Barnett to drive the boys to Morris's if they come up in Wednesday's coach. Tom wrote to his Papa but it was not well done. Had porridge for breakfast again, the children do not like it much but I mean to continue it myself for a time to see how it agrees with me. Ally Thomson's 9th birthday.

16. Fine. We were called up at 2 o'clock this morning with the bad tidings that Curle had fallen down a steep precipice and had lain about an hour before he was able to speak. I sent Joe at once to Parnassus for the Dr and Kerr returned with White and Bob to the camp. I went up soon after daylight and broke the news to Mrs Curle. Joe had got back before saying the Dr was away at Morris's. Started Sandy with a note to him at 8 o'clock. Kerr came up about 10 to fetch the carriage as he thought he could bring Curle up, they carried him out of the gully at daylight this morning and they think there are no bones broken but he complains very much of a pain in his side. Mrs Curle went down with Kerr and the children came down here to stay. Kerr came up again this evening and Bob. Curle could not bear to be moved, so I sent some arrowroot &c down by

Bob. Sandy arrived about 8 o'clock saying the Dr would be here soon for he said he should be here before him. However he did not come and about 1/2 past 9 Mr Pasley came – the Dr left him to come on in a hurry. Mr P. had been thrown twice from his horse and hurt his left shoulder and arm both times so that it was in agony all the night. We all stayed up till 3 o'clock expecting the Dr – I meant to start him on directly he came. At last we thought he must have lost himself about One Tree Hill so I sent two men to cooey but they got no answer.

17. Fine and frosty. Mr Pasley got no sleep with the pain in his arm. No sign of the Dr till after breakfast, we concluded he must have gone to the beach but he came about 9 o'clock and to our astonishment said he had been at home all night, making some excuse that his horse was knocked up and he could not get another till morning. We spoke our mind pretty plainly to him and so did Kerr who met him in the river bed. He came up this evening with Kerr and Bob White – he says Curle is very poorly but no bones broken, though he wonders he was not killed from the nature of the place where he fell. Bob White went home with him to take down medicine and liniment – he brought back word that

the Dr was wanted at Cheviot Hills to a man who hurt his leg some time ago. Mr Pasley's arm keeps very painful. Joe rubbed and bathed it for him twice.

18 (Sunday). Fine. The Dr went to see Curle, putting off going to Cheviot Hills till tomorrow – he told us this evening that he thinks Curle is doing well but he has more fever today from want of sleep, he wants him moved to Price's or home on account of Mrs Curle who is getting wearied out with watching. T. Ford brought a horse for Mr Pasley and they all went away together. Miss Gray and I with all the children had a walk as far as the manuka outside the paddock. Kerr was down this evening and I told him to try all means to persuade Curle to allow them to move him to Price's or home for fear the weather should change, so he is going down early in the morning. Had prayers.

19. Fine but dull looking like rain. I hope they will get Curle out of the tent. Bob the shepherd came in the afternoon and said they had started – and they got here soon after four. Jane and Agnes went up and got the fire lighted and tea made. I went up as soon as I heard they had come. Curle bore the journey better than was ex-

pected but is very weak and tired. Mrs Curle is very glad to be home again.

20. Fine, very sharp white frost. Davy went to the beach to snig out the rest of the Telegraph Poles. I went up to see Curle after breakfast, he feels rather better and is very glad to be home. The Dr and Mrs Hartland came up this morning – she and I went up to see him after dinner and then on to Kerr's house. It began to rain this evening directly they started for home, and rained heavily all the evening.

21. Fine. The Dr and Mrs Hartland came up and went over to Ferniehurst – came in here on the way home and waited for the mail – the Dr thinks Curle is going on as well as can be expected. I had letters from Charley and J. J. Thomson, none from John, Jane or Mother to my great disappointment – but Jemmy came from Motunau tonight with letters from John and he says my dear Willy will be at Barnett's tonight. I had a bad pain in my side all the evening.

22. Fine morning, strong N.W. wind. Blick and Campbell left – wrote to John and Charley, also to Mr Saunders thanking him for the books on Hydropathy. 49 Wind changed to the S.W. this afternoon with rain. I wish my boy had got

home before it set in. I sent a man to meet him and David today. I hope they will be at Morris's tonight.

23. Fine. I went up to see Curle this morning – found him looking much better and more cheerful. Willie and David arrived about 1/2 past 3 with Bob who took very good care of them – they have both bad colds and coughs, and Willie does not look well, I hope this fresh air will set him up – he has ringworm in his head. He is very proud to have earned a prize again this quarter; it is a very nice book. The Dr came up to see Curle. Willie was vaccinated on Monday week and his arm is much inflamed and very sore. Mr Hartland got home last night, he brought a letter for me from John, his Rheumatism is so bad that he is going to try Captn Wilson. 50

24. Fine but dull, looking like rain. Miss Gray and I went to see Curle after dinner, he had a bad headache last night and this morning but is better now – he was carried into the other room last night and had a few minutes by the fire whilst his bed was made – he tried to walk but could not bear the least weight on his bad side.

My dear little Johnnie is two years old today, he does not understand what his birthday is, and

objects strongly when the others tell him it is so – he says no, no. Kerr's little twins Aggy and Bella are three years old today – and it is also Davy the horse-driver's birthday. The pig-killers up from the beach – they have killed about 30 pigs besides what the Whites killed before.

25 (Sunday). Fine. Mr and Mrs Gibson walked over to see Curle, she looks very well indeed. Janet went back with them. Jane and Agnes walked down the flat with them. Miss Gray, all the children (except Johnnie who was with the girls) and I walked along the top of the dipping gully and sat down awhile. The Dr came up to see Curle. Had prayers.

26. Fine and so mild it is like spring. Joe got in Kitty with a calf like herself and Eliza came home herself, but whether her calf is dead or not we do not know yet. Went for a short walk and called to see Curle, he is sitting up but feels very weak. Johnnie is not well and his cough is very troublesome. I have a headache today and so I had yesterday – and Aggie and Willie have had toothache badly.

27. Fine. Miss Gray and I went to see Mrs Kerr and Curle. Agnes had Johnnie out with the children in the paddock. The pork brought

home from the beach. The man brought up a dead more-pork, and Miss Gray got Jane to skin it and then she cured and hung it up to dry.

28. Fine – there was rain in the night. The Dr and Mrs Hartland came for the mail, he and his friend Mr Hay came from the Hurunui yesterday. The English mail is not in. I heard from John, and Mother – not from Jane. Mr Tinline is supposed to be at the boat harbor tonight in a small vessel.

29. Fine. Wrote by post to John, Mother, Jane and Miss A. Thomson. The Dr sent up a blister to be put on Curle's side. I took Johnnie and went up with it, he looks very poorly and has a good deal of pain in his side. Willie had the toothache so badly last night, I had to come down to him and Jane afterwards, after we had gone to bed. I determined to send him to the Dr to get it drawn today, but Joe was so long in finding bridles &c that I sent him alone with some butter and a note to Mrs Hartland for the Dr to bring the instruments tomorrow. Kerr went to the beach expecting the vessel to be there but Bob came up this evening and said it had been there and made signals but there was not a crew ready to go off, so she went on towards the Kaikoras.

30. Wet in the night and this morning, but it cleared up and came on again in the evening with strong south-west wind. Miss Gray had a very bad headache all day. I expected Dr and Miss Ford up but they did not come. The children went to enquire how Curle was after the blister, they brought back word that it had risen well and done a great deal of good – but when Jane went up tonight he said he was not better and had a great deal of pain in his shoulder. He was up which I think was very foolish of him.

[Map]

1 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

2 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

3 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

4 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

5 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

6 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

7 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

8 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

9 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

10 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

11 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

12 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

13 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

14 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

15 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

16 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

17 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

18 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

19 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

20 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

21 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

22 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

23 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

24 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

25 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

26 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

27 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

28 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

29 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

30 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

31 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

32 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

33 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

34 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

35 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

36 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

37 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

38 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

39 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

40 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

41 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

42 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

43 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

44 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

45 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

46 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

47 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

48 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

49 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

50 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

Notes

[Notes on pages 78-90 omitted as they remain in copyright]

Printed and published by the Nags Head Press, 358 Memorial Avenue Christchurch 5, New Zealand

HAND SET IN POLIPHILUS AND BLADO ITALIC 12 AND 11 POINT WITH 1-POINT LEADING

[Back cover of Vol. I]

[TITLE PAGES]

THIS DIARY of family life and station work and hospitality in the 1860s is one of many kept by Mrs Caverhill and not previously published as a complete text. It is centred on Hawkswood, North Canterbury, a coastal run near Kaikoura, but in its homestead emphasis has much general interest relating to the domestic scene in those times.

For this limited edition printing the diary for the full year has been divided to make two matching volumes, each of six months' duration, annotated and published separately.

The follow-on diary entry for New Year's Day 1866 is included as an appendix to this second volume. Along with its added interest as a record of a typical holiday outing of the period, it seems to bring our chosen Hawkswood year to a happier ending.

A YEAR AT HAWKSWOOD

The diary of Frances Caverhill for 1865

IN TWO VOLUMES
Volume II: July-December

NAG'S HEAD PRESS
CHRISTCHURCH

FIRST PUBLISHED 1981 IN AN EDITION OF 300 COPIES

Additional material © 1981 Nag's Head Press (R. S. Gormack)

[FOREWORD]

[Foreword, pages 5-6, omitted as it remains in copyright]

[Volume II, July-December 1865]

HAWKSWOOD

Saturday, 1 July 1865

Fine, though it rained a good deal in the night. Dr and Miss Ford and their friend Mr Hay rode up when we had nearly finished dinner – after they dined we walked round the garden and they then went to Ferniehurst, Mr Hay having come out in the Canterbury with Mr Tinline. 51 Mr Wakefield and Mr Hardwicke from town. Willie had his troublesome tooth drawn today. I had the faceache very badly tonight.

2 (Sunday). Fine day but before we got up in the morning it rained and even snowed a little and it was blowing hard from S. W. all night. The children persuaded me to go for a walk with them – we went across the gully and over to 'Chatty's Hill' – met a traveller who had got off the road by following the Telegraph Poles. Messrs Wakefield and Hardwicke went to the beach this morning. I went up to see Curle this morning,

he looks more cheerful, having had the other Dr's opinion yesterday 52 and he said he thought the pain in his shoulder was from weakness. Had prayers.

3. Fine and very windy. Kerr came up from the beach, he says there are no signs of the vessel since she left the Kaikoras so he is not going down again till he hears she is in. Mr Wakefield from the beach. Willie's ringworm is spreading I fear for he has one on his neck today. Mr Wakefield was so kind as to read to us from Daisy Chain tonight. 53

4. Mr Wakefield left for town. Mr and Mrs Hartland and William rode up today, we were at dinner when they arrived. We went up to see Curle, he is looking rather better than he was. We were much astonished to see Barnett with the mail this evening instead of tomorrow. I have several letters from John, two from Charley and one from Jane, she was quite well on the 30th. Mrs Edwd Lee had a son on the 22nd. There is a gardener for us, with his wife at Morris's and a man named Poppawell wants my side-saddle for a servant of Mrs A. Thompson's who is on her way up to see her mother at Mr Trolove's. 54 I wrote to John, Charley, Mother and Jane and

made up the mail bags tonight as Barnett must start early. I had a dreadful headache nevertheless.

5. Fine. Mr Hardwicke came up from the camp and paid his bill. Mr Dobson for the mail, of course what he brought with him are too late for this week. Mr Maxwell and a Mr Sturton from Flaxbourne. Kerr started for the Gardener and his wife. Mr Maxwell says the vessel was being towed into the Boat Harbour when he came by.

6. Fine. Mr Maxwell and Mr Sturton left for Parnassus and Stonyhurst. Mr M. shewed Miss Gray the proper way to stuff birds and skin them. I called to see Curle, he is much the same. Kerr got home by 3 o'clock with the Gardener and his wife. Mr Busk came from town. Johnnie very wakeful and coughing tonight. I had a headache all day.

7. Wet, and occasional showers of snow all day. Johnnie slept very little indeed last night and seemed so poorly this afternoon, that I gave him a doze of Ipecacuanha which made him sick and relieved him a good deal and he had a quiet sleep afterwards. I put him into a hot bath tonight with mustard in it and slept with him down stairs, keeping the fire in all night, Agnes being with us. Kerr fetched home the Bull from

the second Coldstream this morning. Curle was so much worse tonight, that we had to send for the Dr. Jane went up and stayed all night with Mrs Curle, I fear Curle has caught cold and he will have inflammation.

Mr Busk went on this morning, but I do not think he would get further than Ferniehurst the weather being so bad.

Lord Clyde the boar died some time last night, Joe found him dead when he went to feed them this morning. John will be very sorry I know.

8. Fine. Dear little Johnnie is better this morning but he still coughs a good deal. Jane was down in time to get my cup of Cocoa as usual. Curle had a great deal of severe pain during the night and had two mustard plaisters besides poultices; he was easier when she left and dozing. The Dr came up about 1 this morning, gave him a pill and draught and said they must poultice well. Agnes went to see him at breakfast time, and Miss Gray afterwards, they say he looks very ill, and has a violent headache. The Dr was here before dinnertime, he says it is an attack of Pleurisy and he must be very careful of cold and take plenty of nourishment. I went to see him afterwards, and took a few eggs &c. He could not talk much being worn out with the pain he had

in the night. Popple came from St Leonard's with the Miss Jones, John wrote about.

9 (Sunday). Fine but a very sharp frost. The Dr and Mr Dobson dined with us, he thinks Curle better today. I went up to see him in the afternoon, he does look much better than yesterday. Had prayers.

10. Fine – sharp frost again. Gardener began pruning the fruit trees and did the rose-tree also. Took Johnnie out today it was so warm, Miss Gray went with us to see Curle after dinner, he seemed very weak. Got the box which Mr Tinline brought for us from Scotland – there are lots of nice shirts and socks for John and pinafores and frocks for the children – collar and cuffs and Teapot Cosie for me.

Miss Jones and Popple started for Dickensons, her Father met them so they sent Tinsman back.

11. Fine and pleasant. Mrs Hartland came up with the Dr, she walked up with me to see Curle – he looks better today. Barnett got here between 5 and 6. I had letters from Mother and A. Thomson – none from John, I suppose he has not come up from the south yet. Mrs H. and the Dr waited till the moon rose and then went home. The English mail was at Southland but

not at Canterbury yet. I wrote to John, Mother, Mrs Lee, Christina and Rebecca Wykes – sealed up the mail tonight – 80 letters to ChCh and 9 to Kaiapoi.

12. Dull morning, raining before we got up. I was quite undecided about going to Parnassus but Kerr said it would not be more rain – so we started leaving Johnnie at home with Jane and Agnes. David rode Tinsman and the rest in the carriage. We got to Parnassus about 12 o'clock – rain came on soon after and kept on afterwards. Mr Hartland was out after cattle and did not come in till after dinner, when he had to kill a bullock. It is their 11th wedding day. The Dr lent Kerr his horse to take up Curle's medicine and we started home soon after he came back. It rained all the way but we got in just before dark. Johnnie had been very good and was in bed.

Jane had a son born today, which makes four boys and two girls. 55

13. Wet all day. The Dr came up this evening to see Curle, he thinks him going on well.

14. Wet again and very windy all the evening. N.E. I finished reading The Daisy Chain to the children. Tom has a bad cold and sore throat.

Agnes went up to see her Father, he feels about the same – not much pain in his side.

15. Fine but windy as it was all night. This is my dear Mother's birthday and Jane and Merson's 14th wedding/day. I wish them all most heartily many happy returns of the day. The Dr came to see Curle. The children would have me play and sing for them tonight, themselves joining in chorus. I discovered this morning that Johnnie has got a double tooth through at the back of the top gum, and will have one on the other side very soon. I was very glad to find that was the case as it accounts for the disordered state of his bowels lately. He is beginning to talk a little, he says 'pretty Nanny' 'dirty Nanny' and one or two others.

16 (Sunday). Fine but it rained most of the night. We took Johnnie in his carriage down the paddock – he enjoyed it, not having been out since Tuesday – it has been very mild all day. Had prayers.

17. Fine and mild. I did not get up today till after dinner, not being well. Charley kept me company till after breakfast, for his powder made him sick twice in the night – but he is quite well today. Aggie and Tom took Johnnie in his

carriage this morning, it was so fine. Miss Gray went up to see Curle, he was up but felt the pain in his side and under his right arm a good deal. It rained all the evening.

18. Wet though the early morning was fine. Stayed in bed till after breakfast. Let my dear little Johnnie sleep with Agnes last night, he was very good. It was fine all the afternoon. Barnett came about 6 o'clock. Letters from John, Charley and Merson to say Jane had a fine stout son on the 12th inst last Wednesday. Both are doing well. John and Charley expect to be home this week. I answered all their letters and wrote to Mother, Agnes and J. J. Thomson and made up the mail-bags. Mr Sanderson's dray came for fruit trees with a note from Mrs Sanderson. 56

19. Fine and pleasant. Parnassus gardener up early with a note from Mrs Hartland to see if Mr Sanderson's man will take Miss Ford's boxes to Hastie's. 57 I sent for him and he agreed at once to take them – he is not going on today as two of his bullocks have eaten tu-tu. Willie and David rode to Parnassus with a letter to Mr Hartland about his boat for the landing of the Wire for the Telegraph people. Miss Gray went up to see Curle – he is much the same but has a cough. My little

Johnnie very poorly today. The Dr called in as he came from Curle's, and seeing how ill Johnnie looked, he gave me a couple of powders for him and told me to put him into a warm bath, which I did and remained down stairs with him afterwards by the fire, but he was dreadfully feverish all night and breathed very quickly so that I was quite frightened about him – but my trust is in God our Heavenly Father.

Blick brought the mail, got the Canterbury one and returned to Gibson's.

20. Wet morning. Dear little Johnnie had a very restless night, though he had a great many sleeps, he was burning hot, and the castor oil came up an hour after he took it. Agnes sat up a good deal with him. He seems a little better this morning thank God! and is more lively than yesterday and is not sick. The Dr was here by 9 o'clock, he thinks him better, but is coming to stay all night to see if he is as feverish as last night. If Miss Ford is able to start today, Tom will go with her and he will overtake them tomorrow. Mr Busk from Kincaid; 58 he brought some nice ferns for Miss Gray different to any she has got.

21. Fine. Dear Johnnie was restless the first part of the night but not feverish. The Dr sat up

till 2 o'clock with Miss Gray and Jane, then he went to bed satisfied that he was better and he slept several hours in the cradle, and is quite lively this morning so that I trust he will soon be well. The Dr and Mr Busk started for town. Mrs Curle came down to see me and Johnnie. Curle is much better. Johnnie woke up tonight and cried a good deal, but went to bed with Jane and Agnes about 9 o'clock.

This is Jenny Shrimpton's 8th birthday. 59

22. Fine. Frost last night but very warm in the day. Agnes took Johnnie out for about an hour in the middle of the day and he came in looking much better. He slept well last night. Curle is a good deal better too – he has been walking out a little in the sun.

23 (Sunday). Fine. Mr Flogg from Parnassus this afternoon. Charley got here soon after him, I was disappointed that my dear Husband was not with him but he will be here very soon. I have a note from Jane – she was very well, Mother was with her. Charley has a bad knee from a fall from his horse. Jane and Agnes took the children for a walk. Agnes had Johnnie out more than an hour in the forenoon. Mr Hogg had service tonight, 18 attended – he preached a very good sermon.

24. Fine. Sharp frost last night. Mr Hogg left for Ferniehurst. Aggie and I took Johnnie in his carriage down the garden but the wind was cold so we did not stay out long. School commenced today – Willie and David go with the others. Curle was able to walk up to Kerr's today. I wrote five letters, viz to Mother, Jane, Sally, Mrs Alabaster and the Dr to let him know how Johnnie is. I suppose Miss Ford was married to Mr Hay this morning. 60

25. Fine – very cold. Agnes had Johnnie a very short time. Barnett's black boy came with the mail. English mail this time. I have letters from cousin Fanny, Mother and John who hopes to be home very soon now. Made up the mail bags tonight.

26. Showery. The boy started with the mail before 8 this morning. Willie had his first music lesson. Charley began to clay the sides of his bedroom, which will make it much warmer.

27. Wet morning and sleet once or twice in the day. Charley finished his room, and whitewashed it too. I took Johnnie out in his carriage but we had hardly got him to the garden when it began to rain again. Mr Green the overseer of the Telegraph Wire department came from the

Greta to see about getting some more poles laid down.

28. Fine but windy. Charley got in some horses – he called at Parnassus. I got some Towelling from Mrs Hartland and made the six towels tonight.

29. Fine and pleasant. I took Johnnie out for nearly an hour after breakfast, I was so glad to do so for he looks quite pale from being indoors so long. Mr Green went back to the camp. After dinner Miss Gray, Aggie, Tom and I took Johnnie in his Carriage up to Kerr's house. I had not been along the cutting since it was finished, it is very nice. We saw Curle. Charley got in some wethers for killing. I began some slippers for little Charley in purple and scarlet wool.

30 (Sunday). Fine and pleasant. Went with the children for a walk down the dipping gully. Miss Gray had a bad headache so she stayed at home – left Johnnie also with Jane. Mr Robt Laurie came this evening from St Leonard's with his brother Mr Patrick Laurie, Mr Todhunter, and Mr Day. Had prayers in the kitchen with the boys and servants.

31. Fine. The gentlemen went out shooting ducks, but had not much sport. We had more

arrivals this evening, Mr Boys from Stonyhurst with Mr Sturton, Mr Innis and M. O'Connell, and soon after tea my dear husband himself, he drove up in his new buggy.

Tuesday, 1 August 1865

Fine. There was a heavy shower and a good deal of wind in the night. Mr Boys and his friends left for Mr Keane's 61 and soon afterwards Messrs Laurie, Day and Todhunter left for St Leonard's.

2. Fine. Mr Bruce and Mr Dryffe came from Motunau. John took me for a drive down to the river in his new buggy and afterwards took Curle – it was very cold.

3. Fine. Jemmy the halfcaste came with the waggon from town, bringing two laughing jackasses and six magpies – 3 of the former and 7 of the latter died on the way up from ChCh.

4. Fine but windy and cold, there was some rain too.

5. Fine. Heard yesterday that Mrs Hartland was ill so Johnnie and I went down with Charley in the small buggy. Mr Hartland brought up a friend of his, Mr Cave, and they stayed to lunch. There was a race this afternoon between Mr

Dobson's mare and Alfred Bowen's, won by the latter. We got home soon after 5 o'clock and found Mr and Mrs Mcllraith there. John not so well – he was obliged to go to bed early.

6 (Sunday). Wet or showery all day. John not able to get up till evening. Had prayers.

7. Fine. John better, he drove Mr and Mrs Mcllraith and me down to Parnassus this afternoon but it did him harm I fear for he is ill again tonight. He spoke to Johnson the carpenter about making the addition to the house. The Dr was up, Mr Busk with him. Put the magpies into their cage in the garden.

8. Fine though dull early in the day. John was not well enough to drive to the beach so Charley drove Mrs Mcllraith and I and Willie. Mr MeIlraith and Mr Dryffe rode on horseback. We took our luncheon with us and the horses were taken out on this side the mouth of the Conway, a very pretty spot. The three gentlemen rode on further, and Mrs Mcllraith, Willie and I walked along the beach but found no sea-weed worth picking up, and we had to sit a long time waiting. We got home comfortably by 5 o'clock. Barnett came. I have letters from Jane and Sarah Anne.

9. Fine. Mrs Mcllraith and I walked all round the garden and paddock this morning. After dinner Mr and Mrs Mcllraith left for Parnassus in our carriage – it is a beautiful day for driving. Mr Drife and Charley rode to Rutherford's bush. John is not at all well, he has rheumatism badly in his ankles tonight. We heard today that Barney Riley's wife is dead from the effects of drink and kicks from her brother-in-law, it is a sad end.

10. Fine. John set the boys to burn the grass up the sides of the dipping gully, and took me and Miss Gray down to see it in the afternoon – there was a very cold wind blowing. I have had toothache and headache today. There is an old Maori here going north – John wrote to Wm Gray by him. Charley was looking for 'Kitty' all the morning but did not find her; this afternoon he was with the fencer. Agnes took Johnnie for a walk. Miss Gray has a bad cold and also a sore throat. Mr Drife brought in wethers for killing. Mrs Arkle came up for some meal for the fowls; two more Dorkings died this morning.

11. Fine. Mr and Mrs Mcllraith came up from Parnassus between 10 and 11. Mrs Hartland and Annie went to Cheviot Hills and back with them yesterday. Mr Drife and Curle have been

burning all day. Charley went to Parnassus this morning and rode round One Tree Hill with Mr Mcllraith this afternoon. Willie is troubled with toothache again, and Miss Gray and I have neuralgia. The drays back from Gore's Bay with the things landed for us there by the Connaught Ranger. 62

12. Fine. Mr and Mrs Mcllraith left about 1/2 past 9 for Culverden. Mr Robt Tinline came over, John persuaded him to stay all night. Mr Drife and Curle have been burning down the 'Conway'.

13 (Sunday). Fine. Charley and Tom Kerr rode up the 'Leader' and brought back 'Cherry' with a calf. I went with the children to the 'Coldstream' for a walk, met Mr Dobson and the Dr and one of Mr George McRae's sons from the Hurunui 63 – they stayed to tea. Had prayers.

Mr Tinline went home before dinner.

14. Fine. Tried the new washing machine, and found it very useful, Jane does not like it having made up her mind against it; they began washing after 9 today and finished the whole by 1/2 past 4 – so that shews how much less time it takes. 64 Mr McRae left after dinner, John gave him a good many cuttings of different trees; he

and Charley rode all round the One Tree Hill this morning to see the grass &c. Showery tonight and looking like rain, John feels it coming by his rheumatism and so does Charley. I am very tired tonight and my head aches. Mr Drife and Curle burning towards Brookdale.

15. Fine. John not so well today. Mr Hartland and William came up to dinner. Barnett came about 6 o'clock, 38 letters from ChCh, 4 from Kaiapoi. I have one from Mother and one from Mrs Mcllraith enclosing hers and Mr Mcllraith's cartes des visites. Mr Drife and Curle have been burning at the beach. Mr Wakefield from the north, he left the vessel at Flaxbourne, glad enough to get out of her. Kerr got a bad kick from one of the cart mares today. Only 7 letters to ChCh, none to Kaiapoi or Kowai. I wrote to Jane and to A. Thomson.

16. Fine all day but this morning there was a heavy shower of hail and sleet, and it was so cold we thought it would snow but it all cleared off. Barnett left early. Mrs Hartland and the Dr came up. Mr Canning from the Waiau with Blick. John very poorly again this evening, had to go to bed early. Charley and Mr Drife have been to meet Mr Hartland and settled about the line of fence.

17. Fine – very cold this morning. Mr Hardwicke from town. Mr Bruce from Motunau.

18. Fine. Mr Hardwicke and Mr Bruce left, the little terrier did not like being left behind. Charley was busy roping up young cattle this morning, 'Tom Sayers' amongst them. After dinner Charley, Mr Canning and Mr Drife went to Parnassus and the bush – the former came home early, the others stayed to tea at Parnassus. The bullock dray came from Motunau – he has brought 3 of the Guinea fowls, also some white raspberry canes from St Leonard's.

19. Fine. John not any better. Charley and Mr Canning went to Rutherford's bush. Miss Gray and I had a walk round the garden but it was very cold, the wind N.E.

20 (Sunday). Fine. Wind N.E. still. John rather better. Miss Gray and I and the children went round the garden and paddock. Jane and Agnes took them afterwards. Had prayers.

One of the wild bantam hens came up the gully with three pretty little chicks just hatched, Jane caught them and put them all into a cage in the yard.

21. Fine. John left for town, he will drive to St Leonard's today and to the Hurunui in time

for the coach tomorrow morning. Mr Canning goes with him so far. It looks very like rain, but it has been threatening so long.

22. Fine – sharp frost last night. I have letters from John who had the misfortune to break the axle of the wheel of the Buggy and had to ride on a horse of Alec the German's to St Leonard's. 19 letters from ChCh. I heard from Jane. Wrote to her, Mother, John and Mrs Mcllraith. 29 letters for ChCh. Barnett sent Charley the bullockdriver this time. The Dr up for the Parnassus mail. Charley has been looking for a beast to kill, he would have brought 'Topsy' but she has a calf by her side.

23. Fine, frost last night. Charley the German left with the mail early. Bullocks ploughing the hill by the bush – it is so rough that they broke one of the shares before dinner. Mr Green came for letters, they have the wire in the poles as far as the 'Coldstream' now. Jane put 11 bantam eggs under the hen 'Sally' which is sitting in the kitchen. Agnes took Johnnie for a walk.

24. Fine and quite warm, almost like a summer day. Charley drove us all to Parnassus. David rode on old 'Jenny' the mare. We started at 20 minutes past 9 and left again at 20 minutes to 5,

after spending a very pleasant day. The children were delighted with the Rocking-horse, Aunt Sally, Bagatelle &c and the dancing Negro was most amusing. Miss Gray could not enjoy anything, having a severe headache. We walked round the garden and on to the hill and down to see Mrs Tait. Mrs Hartland has engaged a governess to come up next week, a Miss North. The new Gardener at Cheviot Hills has lost his youngest child of Hooping Cough. The wire is in the telegraph poles as far as this now; it looks very like town to see it.

25. Dull in the early part of the day, but it cleared up and was like a summer's day afterwards – it was very hot when we walked down the flat to the wire fence where Mr Green was kind enough to shew us the Telegraph wire in communication with ChCh. He told Mr Sheath I was there, 65 and he asked in return what I thought of the bush telegraph. I told him to reply 'very much'. It is really wonderful how quick a message is sent backwards and forwards, swift as thought in fact. Charley had never seen it before. Miss Gray was not able to walk so far, though her head is better today. My side ached all day but has been much worse since the walk. Charley and Mr Dobson went this afternoon to the beach

hoping to get cattle. Mr Drife and Curle went with them to burn down there. Kerr left for St Leonard's taking a dorking cock for Mr Nosworthy and one for Mrs Mcllraith and two turkey hens for the former. We got 13 Turkeys, 9 Dorkings, and 5 Ducks from Brookdale tonight, they are to be Mrs Kerr's charge. Also got two little pigs from Parnassus, one is just the colour of his father 'Lord Clyde'. He got out of the box and gave Agnes and Jane such a race after him.

26. Dull morning but cleared up afterwards. I doubt when the rain is coming. I got up with bad face-ache and it got worse after breakfast, but after tying a handkerchief round, it was a little better, but never left altogether. Miss Gray and I sewed the cocoa nut matting together afresh this morning taking out the worn pieces. Mr Dobson and Charley came home whilst we were at tea, but without cattle, they saw some but the ground was so dreadfully rough.

27 (Sunday). Dull cold day – there were a few drops of rain and it looks very like more, or else snow. Kerr home from St Leonards, he brought letters from John to me and Charley. He was not so well on Wednesday night, but was going to have a hot bath. Had prayers.

28. Fine – the rain seems to be all gone, it blew and hailed in the night. I have had a very bad headache all day. Charley away at Rutherford's bush. Mr Canning back from the Hurunui. There has been an accident at the Kaikoras – one of the Stantons was taking a loaded gun from another man, and it went off and the bullet entered his side, his brother passed here in great haste for the doctor.

Did not wash today, Agnes not being very well.

29. Fine. There was a thick fog this morning. Johnnie was very restless in the night – I don't know what was the matter with him, he seems quite well today. Jane got up in the night and began to wash, so as to avoid using the washing machine, so I told her when I got up, that as she chose to set me at defiance, she should finish the washing all herself, and so she did. Agnes went on with her own work. I am sure Jane will be tired tonight. Barnett came, he has brought Miss North as far as Morris's and Mr Dobson meets her there. Mr Hartland came for the mail. I have letters from John, Jane and Sally. Jane encloses one from Uncle John. I have no English letters. John is a little better, he hopes to be home this week. Mr Green paid his bill and will not be

back for some time. Made up the mail bags, Charley wrote to Merson, I to John, Jane and Sally.

30. Fine. Mr Canning left for Waipara. Charley out after horses, could not see any. Blick brought his mail, 54 letters; he left again. Mr Drife from the beach and Curle.

31. Fine. Charley had the bullocks ploughing on the hill today. Mr Maxwell from Stonyhurst, he brought me a note from Mrs Hartland to say she will come up with the children tomorrow. Miss Gray and I began my striped mohair dress. The little dorking hen laid her first egg today.

Friday, 1 September 1865

Dull morning but it got quite fine afterwards. Mr Maxwell left for Stonyhurst. The Hartlands were so late we almost gave them up, I and Willie and Charley went across the gully and nearly to the 2nd bush and then we saw them, Mr and Mrs Hartland and William riding, Annie and John in the cart with Hannah to take care of them; they had to come at foot pace, the cart shakes so and the gardener is not much used to driving. It is William's 9th birthday. Miss North was too

tired to come. Mrs H. and I walked round the garden and up to Mrs Curle's and Mrs Moore's and looked at the fowls but by that time it was raining fast. They soon started for home but they would get very wet for it poured for some time after they left. Tom got his right fore-finger pinched in the chaffcutter – it is very sore. The Dr came from the Kaikoras, Bill Stanton is going on well, the bullet went in under his arm and out at his shoulder blade.

2. Fine-there was a frost after the rain stopped. The Dr went home. Charley and Mr Drife left for St Leonard's. I expected John home tonight, I fear now he will not be home for a week or so. I hope his health is not the cause of his not coming.

Charley and Mr Drife came home about 12 o'clock tonight, we did not hear them, but Jane came down to let 'Jock' out of the passage, and she saw the candle burning on the kitchen table and Charley at the fire.

3 (Sunday). Fine morning but there were about two hours rain in the middle of the day – it soon dried up however and we had a good walk afterwards – all the boys went with Mr Drife to the Conway. I and Aggie, Agnes and Johnnie went up to see the fowls at Kerr's, but the hill looked

too steep to go down. Charley was with us, and we then went through the paddocks, round the outside of the fence, saw where the Peas and Beans are sown and came through the gum-paddock home. The Dr sent wedding cards and cake from Mr and Mrs Hay to me, and Miss Gray, also some for Mrs Curle and Mrs Gibson. I am sorry to hear though that Mrs Hartland is ill, I hope it is not anything serious. Had prayers.

4. Fine. Jane got up again to wash in spite of all I said about it last week, so I desired her to finish the things in the washing machine, but she refused. I therefore told her that she must either use it or leave – so I suppose her obstinacy will make her choose the latter. Mr Drife and Curle went to the beach for wethers. Charley round to the fencers.

5. Fine. Charley and Mr Drife putting up some fencing to keep the cattle off the new sown ground. I have letters from John, Mother and Jane – wrote to them and Sally, also to Uncle John, Aunt Mary, Wm Hensman, Fanny and Christina. Mr Dobson and Pasley from Parnassus, Mrs Hartland is not able to be up, she wants me to go down tomorrow. Charley says Mr Drife can drive me.

6. Wet – so I shall not be able to go to Parnassus today. I woke with a bad face-ache this morning – it was in the right side and changed afterwards to the left. I made a grey tweed coat for Tom.

7. Very sharp frost last night and very cold this morning but it was very fine and warm all day. Mr Drife drove me to Parnassus. I made Charley go as far as the bad cutting in the Coldstream. I found Mrs Hartland a little better, and able to be on the sofa but she is very weak. We left to come home about 1/4 past 4. Met Aggie, Jane, Agnes, Johnnie and Charley on the Coldstream Flat, so they got in and rode home. My face-ache is rather worse this evening. Jemmy has been to the beach, and brought word that the craft is at the Bluff.

8. Fine. Charley and Mr Drife with three of the men to the beach. My face-ache not any better and the pain has gone into my head, I did not get up till after breakfast, it kept bad all day so I went to bed soon after tea.

9. Very wet and cold. I stayed in bed all day, feeling the pain still in my head. Charley and Mr Drife came up tonight, they had to walk up along the hills, the river was too high to drive up. Nothing is discharged from the vessel yet.

10 (Sunday). The ground was covered with snow when we got up and it kept on snowing till after dinner, it then turned to rain and there is every chance of a wet night. I am better today but feel still giddy. Miss Gray has a headache.

Had prayers.

11. Wet most of the day – a good deal of the snow melted.

12. Fine. Postman brought letters for me from John and Jane. I wrote to them and also to Mother. The three contract men came up from the beach, they walked up on Gibson's side and crossed the top stream but it is very high. They say the vessel has not been round, and they had no provisions left. Tom Dillon and his wife came here on their way up to his Mother at Picton. 66

13. Fine and very hot. The Conway still very high but Charley, Mr Drife and two or three men went down with bread &c. Tom Dillon also and he is to help Charley to get some cattle as he knows the place they are in. Mr Hogg from Morris's. He had service tonight. Jane helped with the washing machine today, they had a large wash, Mrs Dillon helped them all day. Johnnie said 'cup' for the first time, his cough is very bad still.

14. Showery but warm. Mr Hogg went on to Parnassus, he meant to have gone to Ferniehurst but the 'Conway' is too high. I went down to the garden this afternoon but the wind was so keen I was afraid it would give me the face-ache.

15. Showery. Blick came today and went back to Ferniehurst – he says the Clarence has been very high and the 'Conway' was over his horse's back two or three times. I thought Charley would have got up from the beach tonight but he has not. I had face-ache badly in the night and most of the day. I should like to get news from town to see what was settled at the Court today, between John and G.O.G. 67

16. Wet all day. Charley came up from the beach tonight to let us know that the vessel is not yet discharged – she was blown up to Wellington nearly, and then down to Lyttelton. She left there last night and got up to the Bluff again today. Charley walked round there and went on board. He says they have not been idle whilst waiting down there for they have sown 4 Bags of grass seed and the teams have drawn a good deal of the wire along to the first shed. Gave Charley a warm bath as he has a bad cold and is feverish, also a powder to him and Tom.

17 (Sunday). Fine till evening when there was a very heavy shower. Agnes took the children for a walk. I went round the garden and gathered some flowers. Joe told me tonight he had done with the cows. Had prayers.

Charley went back to the beach this morning. The hen in the kitchen has got one chicken hatched at last, a very pretty light one.

18. Fine. Jane milked all the cows before she began washing – and they finished even the ironing before milking this evening. Jemmy up from the beach for the Turkeys – they have got three boatloads only off the vessel. Charley and T. Dillon are trying to get some cattle today. I have a cold and sore throat like all the rest. Mrs Kerr went round the garden for the first time. Jemmy up from the beach, he brought a fine pig and a box for me out of the vessel, they got three boat loads off yesterday.

19. Fine. Curle cut up the pig that came from the beach last night and salted it for bacon. Jemmy went back to the beach with the two pair of Turkeys. Charley, Mr Drife and all the men came up this evening, they finished discharging the vessel today. T. Ford came for the mail and stayed to tea. Barnett came himself. I had letters

from John, Mother and Mrs Macdonald who enclosed me the carte de visite of poor Mrs Traherne. John writes in excellent spirits although he lost the case at the court, but he says he is sure of winning in the end. I wrote to him, Mother, Jane, Mrs Lee, and E. Thomson by return of mail.

20. Fine and pleasant. Tom Dillon and his wife with Mr Quine and the other man started this morning to go up the 'Conway'. Miss Gray has such a bad headache I persuaded her not to have school but to be quiet all day. I heard their music. Charley told Joe he must give a proper week's notice before he got paid, so he did his work as usual today.

21. Fine. I helped Jane and Agnes to pick a quantity of feathers, it took us all day, we made two nice full pillows of them.

22. Fine pleasant day. Charley and Mr Drife took away the dry cows, and brought in some others from the 'Leader', to kill one.

23. Fine. Charley killed a cow before breakfast and took away the others afterwards and then went down to Parnassus after horses. Mr Hartland came up when we were at dinner. We had to bring my favourite magpie out of the cage, and

put him into one by himself, as the others were fighting so.

24 (Sunday). Fine but windy and looking very like rain in the morning but it cleared off and was a fine afternoon. Charley and I with David, Willie, Aggie, Tom and Charley went to the top of the One Tree Hill and all along it to see the English grass growing there – it is really beautiful and well worth the walk – but we are all tired. Joe left today for Cheviot Hills.

Had prayers.

25. Fine and very warm. N. W. wind strong. Charley and Mr Drife sowing grass seed down the Conway, David went with them on the Chestnut Pony, she is perfectly quiet though not been ridden for two years or more.

26. Fine and sultry still – wind strong from N.W. Mr Drife and Curle went to the Waiau hills with grass seed. The carpenter finished here and went to Parnassus. Charley went to count the timber in Rutherford's bush – he took Willie and David with him, they enjoyed the ride. There was a shower of rain this afternoon. Blick sent a substitute with the Nelson mail this time, he we hear is gone to be married. W. Gibson came for their mail. Mr Dobson for theirs, he stayed to tea.

I have letters from John, Mother, Jane and Mrs Sanderson. John is keeping very well and hopes certainly to be home next week, David is not to go home just yet. I have had a bad headache all day but I managed to write to John, Mother, Jane and Mrs Macdonald. Charley to John and J. J. Thomson.

27. Fine though the morning was very foggy, This is Redgie Templer's 10th birthday. Mr Hartland leaves with William today for town. Mr Drife and Curle sowing grass seed again. Charley shoeing horses. I had a walk round the garden, the trees are fast coming into leaf.

28. Fine. Got up with slight faceache and it kept on most of the day. Mr Drife and Curle sowed more grass seed. Charley was at Rutherford's bush again. I went up to where the horses are ploughing on the hill, the trees on the little hill are coming out in leaf and bud.

29. Fine. This is my dear Tom's 7th birthday. Charley took David and Willy with him for a ride, they found the two bullocks that were lost. After dinner he drove us all to Ferniehurst to see Mr Tinline's birds. Mrs Gibson is not so well as when she was over here – they were very pleased to see us, and she would open a bottle of wine to

drink Tom's health. We met Mr Busk just as we got home and he turned back with us, he wrote the names to most of Miss Gray's collection of Ferns. Mr Drife and Curle started to burn at the beach. Davy finished ploughing the hill.

30. Fine. Charley went to Rutherford's bush and David and Willy with him, they did not get home till past 4. There was a good shower of rain this evening.

Sunday1 October 1865

Fine. Jane put 13 Dorking eggs under the hen we brought from the Gibsons. Mr Dobson dined with us. Went all round the garden twice – it looks very nice. Had prayers.

2. Showery in the morning. Charley brought the sheep for killing and drove me and little Charley to see Mrs Hartland in the afternoon – she is better but not strong yet – we borrowed a clucking hen from Mrs Cadman. The grey horse was very stubborn before starting so I was rather afraid, but thank God we got home quite safely. The new milkman, John sent up, Patrick – – - began his work today. 'Eliza' is missing, David was out looking for her but could not find her.

3. Fine. Miss Gray not well enough to get up. Charley was at the bush today and other places. Set the hen from Mrs Cadman on 13 Duck eggs and Jane's dorking on 15 bantam eggs. Mr Dobson came for flour, the Dr for the mail. Mr Fyffe came with Barnett, he is just from the Gold Fields at Hokitika – he says they are doing well. I have letters from Jane, Mother, E. Thomson and John who I am thankful to hear is still in good health and will be home on Saturday. Wrote to Mother and Jane.

4. Fine. Strong N. W. wind which will keep the Waiau high I fear, it was dreadfully high yesterday. I wrote to John by Barnett as he may perhaps get his letters on Thursday night. 'Jessie' the cow had a calf this afternoon. I persuaded Miss Gray to keep quiet today upstairs – she had tidings of the birth of a little niece on 25th Sept by yesterday's mail.

5. Fine and pleasant after the rain last night, but there was a sharp frost the latter part of it. Charley shoeing horses – he found his little mare 'Daisy's' foal had got its leg broken by one of the draught horses, he went with Kerr to see if they could set it, but were obliged to kill it out of its misery – it is very unfortunate for him.

6. Fine. This is my little Charley's 5th birthday. Miss Gray got up today, but she is not quite well. Sent Jemmy with the carriage to bring John home, he is to come up in the coach today.

7. Fine and warm like summer. The children were very busy this morning picking up the bones that were lying about the yard. John arrived in good time this afternoon, the horses were very fresh, so he is quite tired this evening and not quite so well as he has been lately – he paid off the cook, Davie and Peter but the two latter are going to take a contract to cut the drains.

8 (Sunday). Fine. Mrs Gibson came over, she was very tired with the walk – not able to go back tonight. Miss Gray and I had a walk round the garden. John let two of the magpies away, one could fly very well. Had prayers.

9. Fine. The two magpies are not to be seen today. John laid down poison for the wild cats. He is not near so well this morning. I have faceache, Agnes has had it too all day. Mrs Gibson came down and went round the garden. Charley and Mr Drife out all today, called at Parnassus. Mr Hartland and Mr Dobson up here.

10. Fine. Keen wind from N.W. John wanted to shew Charley his plans about the fence &c so

he drove me and Mrs Gibson, Maggie, Charley and Johnnie all round the flat. I had the faceache badly all last night and this morning. Both postmen came. Letters from Mother, Jane and Mrs Lee. I wrote to Mother.

11. Showery. Mr Drife left for the Ashburton, Charley for Motunau. I had a very bad headache all day, I never had worse I think, could not sit up at all. Mrs Gibson and Maggie went home in the trap which went afterwards to the beach for grass seed.

12. Fine and very hot. My head better but not right yet. The cows were lost all day yesterday, Patrick found them today behind the one tree hill near Rutherfords.

13. Wet most of the day but the men were able to work on in the garden.

14. Fine. John and I had a long walk this morning, we went down the dipping gully and up to the fowl house to see the Dorkings and Turkeys, then climbed the hill and rested awhile at Mrs Kerr's. Mr Dobson was here to dinner. Sent David to Ferniehurst for a hen to sit on some duck eggs. Miss Gray had to go to bed in the afternoon, as she had a bad headache. Jane caught six little chicks belonging to a hen in the gully,

we gave them to the hen with the one bantam – she took them very kindly.

15 (Sunday). Fine. Set 13 Duck eggs under Gibson's hen. Mr Keane and Mr Gooch came this morning. Charley and Collie came with some young horses from Motunau. Had prayers in Miss Gray's room.

16. Donald Collie engaged for another year at £75 and a bonus of £5. J.S.C – DC 68

Fine and hot.

17. Geo. Arthur engaged at £52 a year yesterday.

Wet most of the day and cold. T. Ford came for the mail. Mrs Hartland sent some Cress and Radishes for tea. Mrs Gerard's little girl is ill. Barnett came with the mail, English mail at last. I had letters from Sarah Anne and Christina. Wrote to Jane and Mrs Mcllraith. Charley to Mother. The men are planting trees on the hills.

18. Fine but very cold. Miss Gray up to dinner. Mr Tinline over before breakfast and Jem Gibson. John gave him a cheque for £15. Johnny Cadman came up, we sent some duck eggs for his mother to set under a hen. We had to return Mrs Gibson's last one for she would not sit.

19. Fine. Had the sittingroom chimney swept by Jem and Tumeru. John and I went down to the garden directly after breakfast and then we walked on up to Mrs Kerr's. Miss Gray and I had a walk in the garden in the afternoon.

20. Fine. John took Willie in the trap with him as he has to call at Culverden and Highfield and thinks of going on to the Hanmer Plains to see the Count De La Pasture and to bathe in the hot springs. 69 They had some little disasters just at starting, first a bolt of the traces broke and then a trace so they did not get off as soon as they intended – the children rode as far as the Coldstream.

21. Fine but windy. Set the black hen on 13 Dorking eggs, 6 of the best hen – also set 'Caroline' on 13 Duck eggs, 'Alice' on the same and another on 13 Dorkings at the edge of the gully behind the stock yard. Miss Gray went up with me to see them set. David went with Charley and Curle to the fence, he misses Willie. Mr Dobson came up for some flour, he brought us some more radishes and cress – he did not go home tonight so we had some music.

22 (Sunday). Fine morning but it began to rain before dinner and continued most of the day. Mr

Dobson went home this morning. It has been very cold all day. Had prayers.

23. Fine. Charley, David, Curle and Tumeru went to the beach. 4 of the young dorkings are hatched and 2 of the bantam's chicks. The boundary keeper's dog got some of the poisoned meat today and was very poorly; they made him sick which did him good, the man came down for some gun-powder. I gave him a little in a paper. He was going to give it to the dog but the other men would not let him.

24. Fine and very warm. Charley and Tumeru got up soon after 9 o'clock with two cows a young calf and a steer; they would have had a larger mob but two of their horses broke loose and came home – so Curle and David have to walk home over the hill. They have got 'Princess Beatrice' at last, we were afraid she was dead. The Triumph 70 is at the boat harbour so Charley went down to Parnassus to tell them. Jemmy left with the draught mares for town. Wrote to J. J. Thomson and Eliza. Both postmen came. Mr Sturton from Flaxbourne. The Dr for the Parnassus mail. I had letters from John, Mother, Jane and Mrs Mcllraith and Cousin Maryanne.

25. Fine. Mr Hartland up to breakfast and

went to the beach with Charley and David. Mr Sturton left for Stonyhurst. Jane and Agnes have had a great deal of trouble trying to catch a wild Bantam and her chicks. Peter and Davy tried too but she always beat them till they got all the chicks and when nearly dark they got her on her nest by putting a blanket round her. There was a heavy shower of rain and hail this evening just as they came from the beach, but Mr Hartland went home at once.

Charley killed a steer for Beef, and roped up the white cow for milking – she was not so wild as we thought she would be. Found 'Dot' lying dead at the top of the gully so she was poisoned after all.

26. Fine. A good deal of snow on the top of the mountains. Made a large coop for the hen and 12 young dorkings, they are very fine ones. My face very sore today – the pain is more in my jaw than my teeth. Just before going to bed tonight the dogs barked and it was to announce my dear husband's arrival, they had had an accident which but for a merciful providence might have been very serious, the night being so dark John had mistaken the road coming out of the Leader, and he was thrown out, the new gardener for Parnassus then jumped out and as the horses still

ran on, my poor Willie jumped out behind very much frightened and his arm a little hurt and John not injured but it will affect him afterwards he felt it in his heart and a choking sensation in his throat but Thank God neither of them had any limbs broken. They have enjoyed the trip on the whole and both bathed in the hot springs.

27. Wet – it was fine the first part of the morning and strong north-west wind – which made my head ache. Poor Willie has a bad sick headache and his nose bled a good deal – his arm too is bruised. John feels a good deal shaken and tired. Charley went down and got up the trap – there is not much damage done to it. Put the dorking hen 'Marian' and her 4 bantam chicks into a coop.

28. Fine. Charley started early for the Kaikouras – it came on wet soon after he left, and was showery most of the day. John very bad with rheumatism. Miss Gray and I had a walk round the garden after the rain and it was very warm.

29 (Sunday). Fine and warm. Johnnie wore the frock and one of the pinafores from Scotland, they fit him nicely. Mr Robt Laurie and Mr Lousada came – also Capt Goldie with 'Blood

Royal'. 71 Mike and A. Curle from Motunau, brought a few fresh herrings.

30. Fine all but the early morning. Andrew Curle engaged at £2 per week during shearing. Mr Laurie and Mr Lousada left for Culverden. Charley came tonight from the Kaikouras; he has got a black and white pup for himself.

31. Fine and very hot. Miss Gray and I had a walk round the garden, there are four men weeding besides the Gardener. Charley and David to the beach to draft all the mares from the colts and brought them up here. Barnett came. I have letters from Mother and Jane, the latter enclosing Helen's letter to her. Old Bill's 'Tiny' died last Tuesday having been hurt by some unkind person – poor thing I am sorry. A person named Craig came tonight.

This is Annie Hartland's 8th birthday. 72

Wednesday, 1 November 1865

Fine and very hot. Mr Craig went on towards Waipapa. Barnett left. Charley, Curle and others started to muster the Conway. David went down to the beach to bring up some things. Willie and Tom doing their first day's shepherding, keeping

the boundary between here and the Leader – they took their dinner with them. Agnes and the other children took them some Apples after dinner. Mr Sturton from Parnassus, had lunch and then went on north. A. Curle left for Motunau. I walked in the garden with John, but found it very hot – afterwards Miss Gray and I went up to the yard with him to see him turn out 'Blood Royal' – he seemed pleased to get at a bit of green grass. Sent the two kittens to Mrs Moore.

2. Fine. David went out with the fencers to lead the pack-horses home, and tonight took some horses away. Willie and Charley shepherding, came home at 2 o'clock to change his boots having a blister on his toe. Tom went back with them having done his lessons. Agnes took Johnnie and Aggie to meet them. Had the first gooseberry tart of the season. John has been very bad with rheumatism.

3. Fine and very warm. Jane milked today as the milkman was helping the gardener and Kerr to plant potatoes. Mrs Cadman and Mrs Arkle went over to Ferniehurst, it was quite dark when they got here on their way home, they had a great fright with 'Blood Royal' down the flat. John went with David and Willie to get the sheep off

One Tree Hill. The two boys afterwards went with pack horses to the fencers and I had a long walk with John round the paddocks – finished my gingham skirt and had it on with a white jacket. Aggie also wore her white body and new skirt. This is little Annie Templer's 4th birthday.

4. Fine – rather windy. John, Willie and David shepherding. Tom went with his Papa. I have been busy all day making cakes &c. Had a very bad faceache early in the morning. Sandy in for provisions for the musterers.

5 (Sunday). Fine. Musterers in this afternoon. John sent them some grog and bread and cheese to the scrub yard – there are a good many young lambs. Had prayers.

6. Fine. John drove me to Parnassus, had dinner and got home by 1/2 past 3. Mason from Motunau with 2 rabbits, 9 crayfish and 4 herrings, also 2 game cocks one of which died on the road. Several of the telegraph men passed.

7. Wet most of the day. Mr Hogg came this morning from Ferniehurst – he has a bad toe – he had service this evening, not so good attendance as usual. Barnett came – I had a letter from Jane. I was taken ill during service and had to go to bed.

8. Fine. John sent for the Dr early, he thinks if I stay in bed today I shall be all right – he sent some medicine after he went back. Mr Wilkin from St Leonard's. 73 Mr and Mrs G. Keene from Swyncombe, Miss Gray had to do the honours.

Old Bill Collins came with James Bentley.

9. Fine and hot. Mr and Mrs Keene went to Parnassus, I came down before they left being better today, I like Mrs Keene very much. John and Mr Wilkin rode down to Parnassus after lunch. The Dr came up. Miss Gray had a bad headache, Agnes also. The men are shearing the rams. One of the good bantams began to sit.

10. Fine and warm. Mr Wilkin left for St Leonard's. The Dr came up and dined here. Charley and David went down for horses to the 'Leader' – they found old 'Countess' dead by the side of her foal. John is very sorry about it as she has cost so much. The bullock-dray from Motunau. Noticed one of the dark pea-hens sitting today by the noise she made.

11. Fine – hot and windy. Old Bill and Neville left for Motunau, sent 2 bantam chicks and a hen with 7 chicks to Cheviot Hills by them. This is cousin William Hensman's birthday. The Dr came up with a message from Mr Hart-

land. Mr Dobson came this evening with a letter for John to deliver. The little 'Linnet' got out of the cage today, the wind must have caused the door to open and we found it had flown. I am sorry it is without a mate, it will be so dull and perhaps die.

12 (Sunday). Fine and very hot. John and Miss Gray left for town in the carriage. Charley and David went with them till they had got over the bad road – they got back about 5 o'clock. Mr Dobson went home after tea tonight. Agnes and Jane took Johnnie for a walk, the others went up to the shed. Janet Curle has had the chicken-pox but is better.

Sent a letter to Mrs Lee by John.

13. Fine and very hot, most oppressive. Heard the children's music and made Willie, Tom and Charley write but Aggie attended to Johnny so well that I let her off all but music. Charley read and said his tables. The boys went to the Dip afterwards. David got in 'Forrester'. Charley away at Rutherford's bush. The Dr came up with a note from Mrs Hartland. Sent to the beach a note and parcel for Wm Gray to deliver at the Kaikouras.

14. Fine. Charley at the Bush. Had the chil-

dren in to all their lessons. The Dr came for the mail. Barnett came – I have letters from Mother and Jane. Charley had a short one from John, they stayed at Morris's the first night and went to Culverden next morning.

15. Fine. Barnett left at eight. The Cheviot Hills man brought letters just in time. Had all the children at school today. I walked down the garden this evening – the fruit is getting much larger – we had two or three ripe strawberries, if there was a little rain there would soon be plenty ripe I think.

16. Fine but windy and not so hot as the last day or two. Charley, Willie and David rode down to Parnassus. I had the others to school and Willie to Music after he came home. One swarm of bees came off today on to the big birch tree, the gardener put them into a box. Put the Laughing Jackasses into the cage down the garden and put the tame Magpie into theirs in the yard. Cut out a holland hat for Johnnie and nearly finished tonight.

17. Fine. Finished Johnnie's hat before dinner and his red frock afterwards. Charley and David went to the beach. Very hot all day.

18. Fine and windy. This is Mrs Bushill's

birthday. I had a most violent face-ache when I woke this morning, I tried a mustard plaister and then creasote and at last fell asleep and woke about 11 o'clock without pain for which I hope I was truly thankful. I had headache the remainder of the day but I can bear that much better than toothache. The Dr came up this afternoon.

19 (Sunday). Fine, very windy still – there were a few drops of rain in the night but not enough to wet the ground. There is snow on the mountains. Jane gathered a nice dishful of large ripe strawberries on the little hill and we had them for tea with cream which was a great treat. Had prayers.

20. Fine, cold in the night and early this morning – windy during the day. Charley down at the Brookdale yards and at Parnassus. Mr Hartland was here today. There was a curious phenomenon noticed by Mrs Hartland, Curle and Jem the Maori between 8 and 9 this morning, there seemed to be three circles of different colors close to the sun. I hope we shall hear some further account of it from some of the astronomers. 74 Mrs Curle helped the girls today, Jane has a gum-boil which pains her very much. I had all the children to school but Charley who stayed at Kerr's till dark.

It is two years today since Mrs Hartland's dear baby Marian died. Charley came home with a bad headache tonight. I began my Baiege dress. 75 Mrs Curle is going to do the Jacket.

21. Fine. Charley went for the Bull. Waiau high. Barnett and Lovell came. Letters from John and Miss Gray. John will come home by Motunau. The Dr came for mail. I felt very poorly all day and could hardly attend to the children's music. Went to bed before tea-time and had to get Mrs Curle to come down and sleep here – sent for the Dr between 9 and 10. It is a very wet and windy night.

22. Fine, very windy. This is my 31st birthday, and I must spend it in bed as I am not well enough to get up. The Dr proposed sending 'Momus' for Mrs Hartland, which we did and she very kindly came directly and stayed with me. I managed to write a note to John this morning so that he need not be too anxious about me.

23. Fine and dreadfully windy. I am no better yet, the Dr went to Parnassus for other medicines. I should be glad to have John at home and yet I am thankful that he is spared all this suspense. Mrs Hartland read Kate Coventry 76 aloud to me.

24. Fine. I was worse this morning but got

relief by noon thank God! and I trust I shall do well now. Mrs Hartland went home this evening – Kerr drove her. Charley, Curle &c went to muster the Waiau – the former came home tonight having 'Forester' with him. The wind is higher than ever, it shook the house.

25. Fine. Slept well and feel better this morning. Charley off before 5 o'clock. The Waiau is so high I fear my dear husband will not be able to cross if he is at Motunau, and tried to come over.

26 (Sunday). Fine but still windy. Had a good night and am much the same as yesterday. The Dr went home this evening. Charley came in, they have had a bad muster with the wind being so high.

27. Fine. Much the same. Charley and David went off early to Brookdale to draught &c. Willie, Tom and Charley went after breakfast. The Dr came this afternoon; he very kindly brought me a Fowl for tomorrow's dinner.

28. Wet at last – it will do a great deal of good but they would have liked to get the lambs done first. The Dr came for mail, he says I may perhaps get up on Thursday. Barnett came. I have letters from John, Jane and two from Mother – my dear

husband was awaiting news of me most anxiously – he hopes to start home on Friday. I wrote to him tonight and a few lines to Jane. Mrs Hartland wrote for me to Mother and Miss Gray.

29. Still wet – bad for the lambs but we are very thankful for the garden, grass &c. Finished reading Old Lieutenant and his Son which is very interesting and nice. Began Digby Grand but do not like it. 77

30. Fine morning but came on very wet afterwards. The Dr came up but advised me not to get up today. Cousin Fred Hensman's birthday.

Friday, 1 December 1865

Fine. I got up about 12 but was glad to go back to bed about 4. Mrs Curle was down to see me. Nellie Templer's 8th birthday. The children and Charley had strawberries and cream for tea.

2. Fine and very hot. Charley started with 'Victoria' to leave her at Cheviot Hills and going himself to Motunau. The Dr came up, he says I am going on very well – he brought me another fowl. I went to bed at 1/2 past 5. My dear husband came home this evening having ridden an old cart mare from Culverden – he is very pleased to

see me so well. I indulged in a very few ripe strawberries and cherries.

3 (Sunday). Fine and hot. I have a headache this morning. Jane too is very unwell – she woke us all in the night making a dreadful noise, she could hardly get her breath but does not recollect it. Charley came home late last night, he did not go to Motunau. John started him away again today to see Price to find out if he has really seen 'Regicide'. 78 Had prayers.

4. Fine. Dr came up, stayed to dinner – he brought me another fowl. I walked about a little just outside the house today. David has been up the 'Leader' for horses but could not find any. Pat cannot find 'Skimmilk' either but saw others with young calves.

5. Fine but cloudy. David went again after horses – could not find them. Charley and Mr Bruce from Motunau. Barnett came. I have letters from Mother and Miss Gray. I answered them and wrote to Jane also.

6. Showery morning so John cannot fetch Mrs Hartland. Mr Bruce left for Motunau. Charley and David looking for horses and cows but could not find what they wanted. Charley has sciatica very badly in his hip.

7. Fine. Charley no better. John went in the little trap for Mrs Hartland – they came up in time for dinner. She did not go round the garden as it was cold. Charley drove her home after tea. I have a headache tonight. David and Jemmy took horses to the Waiau, got home late.

8. Wet. Charley has still the pain in his hip. My head is better today.

9. Still wet but fine afternoon. Charley went to the beach though his hip is no better – the Dr and Mr Dobson came up. The children have all eaten too many cherries they say. Finished reading Jacob Faithful. 79

10 (Sunday). Fine. John had a violent attack of Indigestion last night. Tom is poorly today too. Charley's hip much better – he rode down to Parnassus with Mr Dobson and the Dr. Found three new ring worms in Aggie's head and applied ink to them as so many people advise it. The Dr sent up some Petroleum Soap by Charley, so we shall try that next. Had prayers.

11. Fine and warm. Mr Hartland came up this morning. Mr Pow from Ferniehurst this afternoon. David and Jemmy brought horses from the beach. The long lost 'Skimmilk' came home

herself this morning with a white bull calf – her udder seems much inflamed.

12. Fine. This is Sarah Anne's birthday and Jane's baby is five months old. Barnett came – I have letters from Mother, Jane and Miss Gray, also from Christina and Annie Hensman by English Mail. I wrote to Mary Anne Wykes and Christina, Mother, Sally, Jane and Miss Gray.

The children did their Music and wrote a copy. Tom is full of chicken-pox. Aggie had not near so many places.

13. Fine pleasant day. John started early for town, he went in the gig as far as Morris's hoping to dispose of it there – he took James Renton with him. Charley went to Parnassus and met him in the 'Leader', he is not at all well again. Sent what little things I have made for the Rangiora Bazaar, by John. The children did their Music, writing and reading.

14. Fine and very hot. Charley shod 'Forester'. Kerr up from the beach, he says there are no signs of the vessel. Charley and David went to Ferniehurst and Rutherford's bush. The Dr came up for 'Creamy' and 'Fairy'. Mr Hogg arrived late, he is from Addington today.

The children did their reading, writing and

Music. Had about a dozen ripe raspberries today. Had a walk round the garden with the children.

15. Fine and hot. Mr Hogg went to Ferniehurst. Charley helped the Dr with the horses and then went up the 'Leader' to look for 'Lucy' who we think must have calved. This is Atty Templer's 6th birthday.

Charley and David brought home 'Lucy' with a bull calf, also 'Princess Alice' who is very near. I went round the garden but it was too hot to stay long. Sent Aggie with a few cherries to each of the women.

Mr Hogg had service, 16 of us altogether. The little bantam hen 'Minny' has 5 chicks. The men brought word tonight that the bush was on fire where old George was splitting. Charley lighted a fire yesterday a good way off and the wind has changed.

16. Fine and very hot. Mr Hogg to Parnassus. This is the 15th Anniversary of the Canterbury Settlement. 80 Renton home, he brought a note from my husband who got to Culverden all safe. I have got a lot of sea-weed from Motunau by one of the shearers. Charley went to the Bush – he is very lowspirited about it there is a good deal of damage done.

17 (Sunday). Fine and hotter than ever. Mrs Gibson walked over from Ferniehurst. I have a violent headache today, can hardly keep up. Had prayers.

18. Fine and very hot but there is a little wind. Charley went to the beach after dinner having had word that the vessel has come at last. David went to Parnassus to tell Mr Hartland. William had just got home. I helped pick the strawberries and the children gathered a good lot of raspberries. I have a bad gum-boil again in the same place as last time but this is much more painful. Children did all their lessons and Music and got done before dinner.

19. Fine and very hot but windy. I had no sleep hardly all night with my gums, and continued very painful all day. Jane and the children got a great many raspberries again. I could not attend to the children's lessons today.

20. Fine. My mouth a little better today but I had a bad headache when I woke. Mr Tom Balfour and Mr Ross (of Cooke and Ross) came this morning, stayed to dinner and tea and returned to Ferniehurst. 81 Mr Pasley from Parnassus. Charley from the beach.

21. Fine. Charley and David went to the

Waiau Island and brought home 'Topsy' and her calf to kill. Had the first cherry-pie.

22. Fine but rather cloudy which is pleasant after the great heat. Charley and all busy setting up the new screw wool press in the shed. Willie and David went with Bob to get the Potash from the Pine flat. Mr Pasley left for Home.

23. Fine. Jane's birthday, sister Jane I mean. Charley got his finger severely hurt in the new Press, I sent David for the Dr who says it is broken in two places; he put cold water bandages on and they eased it a good deal, the fore-finger is pinched also. Jemmy left for Motunau. It rained this evening which will cool the air I hope.

24 (Sunday). Fine and hot. After dinner I went for a walk with Charley and the children, we looked in at Mrs Moore's ducks, she was not in – saw the young ducks at Mrs Curle's and then went up to see Mrs Kerr's young broods. Charley's finger aches a good deal he got no sleep much last night, the Dr went home this morning. Old Bill from Kowai. Jemmy from Motunau late. Had prayers.

25 (Christmas Day). Fine and very hot. The children picked all the ripe raspberries and I made some jam of those picked last week and some

currants. Had a very good plum pudding for dinner and new potatoes – and a mince pie for tea. All the people on the station have plum pudding and some grog. The men had all sorts of games this evening, jumping in sacks &c. Agnes knocked her face against a rail and was quite stunned for a minute, her eye is bruised and her lip. Had prayers.

26. Dull morning, it began to rain before dinner and kept on most of the day, very heavy tonight. It thundered this morning. Curle and others went to burn the ram paddock, but they will not succeed as the rain has come, but they hope to find the lost rams. The Dr came up for mail but Barnett did not come, I suppose the coach did not come up yesterday being Xmas Day. Charley's finger rather more painful today. I got a note from John by some men he sent to Parnassus, he was going south on the 23rd, he was not much better I am sorry to say. The children had snap-dragon tonight, they were very pleased with the fun. 82 Andrew Curle and T. McDowal from Motunau.

27. Still wet during the morning and cloudy all day. Fifteen years today since our ship first anchored in Lyttelton. 83 Mr and Mrs Hartland's

William came up this afternoon, waited till after 7 for Barnett but he did not come. It began to rain very fast before they started and kept on all night.

28. Wet morning. Cousin Helen's birthday. Barnett came today – English mail. The Carpenter took the Parnassus letters. I have 9, two from John, two from Miss Gray, one from Jane, Mother, Mrs Macdonald, J. J. Thomson and cousin Helen. John wrote on Sunday from the Rakaia where he was detained by the river but he hopes to be home next week. Mr Pasley from the 'Waiau'. Mr Dobson came up, stayed to tea and a little music. It was between 12 and 1 when we went to bed, with writing and making up the mail.

29. Fine. Barnett left early – my letters are to John, Miss Gray, Mother, Jane, A. Thomson and Mrs Macdonald. Old Bill started to go to Motunau but the river was high and the horses got into a quick sand so he came back. Charley and Mr Pasley went to the Bush. I have a bad headache.

30. Fine. Mr Pasley went to Parnassus. I sent the two little baskets full of flowers. Mrs Curle helped me pick three large bottles full of cherries

and filled them up with brandy. Had news of the Picton vessel with timber being at the Boat Harbour. Charley sent two men down. Old Bill left for Motunau.

31 (Sunday). Fine. Charley went to meet the sheep – they got down early. T. Ford came up to dinner and had some cherries. T. Kerr to the beach to see if the Maories were unloading the vessel. Had prayers.

[Map]

[Map]

51 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

52 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

53 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

54 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

55 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

56 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

57 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

58 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

59 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

60 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

61 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

62 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

63 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

64 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

65 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

66 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

67 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

68 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

69 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

70 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

71 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

72 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

73 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

74 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

75 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

76 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

77 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

78 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

79 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

80 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

81 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

82 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

83 [Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

Notes

[Notes on pages 68-74 omitted as they remain in copyright]

Appendix

Appendix

MRS Caverhill's diary for the following year, 1866, is another of her series in the Canterbury Museum that has survived in good order, though in this case the entries are made one close upon the other in a hard-acked notebook. We find that the new year begins with a family holiday outing of which she writes interestingly and at some length. It seems most appropriate, therefore, to round off these printed volumes with the addition of her account of such a special festive day.

Monday, January 1st 1866. Fine but rather cloudy. Charley left early for Brookdale. Kerr drove me, with all the children and Agnes to Parnassus, David on 'Tinman', we got there about 10 o'clock. After dinner we went down to the flat to see the cricket players. Willie got a blow from the ball which made his eye swell, but his cap saved him. After Cricket the men had jumping in sacks, Tate was one but at starting he fell heavily on to his face which stunned him for a minute or two – he recovered enough to try the wheelbarrow race and foot race afterwards.

After tea the fun for the children began. Aggie and Annie were in white, with coloured sashes and flowers round their heads. They were all delighted with the Christmas Tree which did look very nice, and the presents upon it were well appreciated. Then they had the game of Turning the Trencher which I had never played at since I left England before. 84 There was music and singing after this and even a Polka and Schottische, which Miss North and I danced with Mr Dobson and Mr Pasley and Charley. The children went to bed at 12 and we at 1 – after spending a very pleasant day. I am sure Mrs Hartland is tired and her foot is painful.

[Note omitted as it remains in copyright]

Printed and published by the Nags Head Press, 358 Memorial Avenue Christchurch 5, New Zealand

HAND SET IN POLIPHILUS AND BLADO ITALIC 12 AND 11 POINT WITH 1-POINT LEADING

Matching volumes bound by F. Cartwright & Son Ltd Christchurch

[Back cover]

84

Conditions of Use

By their use of these ebooks, texts and images, users agree to follow these conditions of use:

These ebooks, texts and images may not be used for any commercial purpose without permission from the University of Auckland Library.

These ebooks, texts and images may not be re-published in print or electronic form without permission from the University of Auckland Library. However, educators are welcome to print out items and hand them to their students.

Users are not permitted to download our ebooks, texts, and images in order to mount them on their own servers for public use or for use by a set of subscribers. Individuals and institutions can, of course, make a link to the copies at ENZB, subject to our conditions of use. It is not in our interest or that of our users to have uncontrolled subsets of our holdings available elsewhere on the Internet. We make corrections, add tags, add images, etc. on a continual basis, and we want the most current text to be the only one generally available to all Internet users.

These texts can potentially be used as the basis for additional TEI tagging or for some other etext or ebook project, but we ask that you let us know before you start, so that we can coordinate work on that text and make sure that we are not working on it simultaneously. We would like a copy of the improved text for our collections.

Request for permission form