One hour in reading and writing before going to town. Morning at the Office reading Saunders Reports.1 Called to see Abby at Mrs. Frothingham’s. I regretted it afterwards for I had but little pleasure from it. She is somewhat altered from what she was before toward me, and I have moments when I cannot, though I would, be blind to their probable effects in the married state. I never ought to marry. Every step convinces me of the truth of this. My mind and feelings are not calculated for it. Afternoon, Executive Record and finished reviewing Cicero’s Oration for Roscius. Returned to Quincy driving out I. H. Adams, second son of Mrs. T. B. Adams. He is in a store in Boston. Evening quiet. Finished Peter the First.

Wrote a letter to my Mother this morning before going to town, then rode into Boston. Morning at the Office reading Saunders. I was about going to Medford to dine when I came across an invitation to Mr. Webster to dine with Mr. Brooks. This made me hesitate. I had received no notice of any company being likely to be there and after much reflection determined upon declining to go until evening. The situation of a lover is rather an awkward one as it respects third persons at the house of the lady’s father. And I am daily getting a stronger repugnance to figuring in this midway sort of a character. Wrote Executive Record and read the whole of Cicero’s Oration for Archias before starting for Medford. Reached there at sunset and after many excuses and some trouble had a pleasant evening.

Remained at home during the morning reading Michaux and walking about the grounds. The weather was very pleasant. Mr. Brooks was quite unwell and I went to Meeting in his place in the afternoon. He is now at the age at which all of his family have died and he feels a little alarmed at the signs which indicate any sickness in him. He is a very estimable character and will live long, I hope, to enjoy the pleasant old age which is in prospect for him. Mr. Wallcut preached,1 a very fatiguing minister. Mr. R. D. Shepherd and his daughter called and took tea. She is a pleasant little girl. Evening passed very quietly at home.

Returned to Boston after passing a short time with Abby. Felt a little unwell during the night and this morning. At the Office, reading the Reports of Saunders. Nothing important and we hear little of the progress of our family although I received a letter from my Father on Saturday. Wrote the usual portion of Executive Record and reviewed the Oration for Archias before going to Quincy. A little work and conversation in the evening.