Dull day with fog and rain. At home engaged in writing, and reading the American papers. Also continued Lord John Russell’s book, which is very interesting. It is much the best specimen of his style that I have seen. Towards evening a muddy walk through Gunnersbury and Acton. The sun now sets at its earlies, 3.49. making the day light less than eight hours. Mr Erickson came out to see Mary, whom he reported favorably of. He returned at nine.