Browsing: Diary of Charles Francis Adams, Volume 2

Went to Church this morning at Federal Street and heard Dr. Channing preach a Sermon which was a very pretty piece of writing but which I could not take much interest in. I confess I was indulging in dreams. Ambition is an enticing subject. And whenever I feel the energies within me rising, I take a pleasure in them which cannot be repressed although there is a weight which hangs over me, with considerable force, keeping down exuberant hope. I am confident of success in life if I live. That is the question. I am entirely in the hands of Providence. In the afternoon, Mr. Noyes preached,1 and I cannot say that I was too much pleased. He was an old Instructor of mine and I wish him well. But had he taken more interest in me, I might perhaps have been more successfull at Cambridge. I was negligent at that time, and finding that it disabled me from pursuing the College studies, I was thrown into other pursuits which perhaps will eventually prove more advantageous. In the evening, attended an Oratorio of sacred Music. Mr. Horn, Mrs. Austin and others. I was pleased though not so much delighted with music as usual. I have not seen Abby today and feel it considerably. Custom and affection soon form heavy bands. Returned in a heavy rain.