[Volume I, Jan-June 1865]
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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
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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
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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'
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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,
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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
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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-
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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.
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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-
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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--
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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,
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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
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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
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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
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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,
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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
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(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
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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-
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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,
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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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-
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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-
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
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