Sunday, February 28, 2010

February 28, 2010

Dearest Diary,

It has become a habit that when the end of the month arrives, I throw a small dinner party and tonight was the night for such extravagant affairs. I am not too humble to admit that the menu proved wonderfully delicious for a first attempt. We had a chicken and tomato course on a bed of salad. But I was more pleased with the company than with the food.

The rest of the day has been one spent in the company of friends and of course, Lady Pigeon. The hound and I have spent many hours around the estate today, including a brisk walk down the lane leading up to the house.

Tomorrow, there is to be a recital among my university students...

Saturday, February 27, 2010

February 27, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I am most unusually sleepy this evening. On the morrow I am to attend the theatre to see a performance by a dear friend. I am only bothered by the early hour at which it begins. I am unaccustomed to being up so early on a weekend.

I have spent a good part of the day, however cultivating a daydream which I deem quite a pleasant one.

Perhaps I shall share it with you tomorrow...

February 26, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Today was a most unusual day of vigorous exercise for the schoolchildren. I too have been spending a more abundance of time on such recreation, and today was the better for it.

Before day's end, I was able to share a spot of tea with Mr. Friendly, as well as some overdue conversation with Mr. Voldemort. And I was not without the company of two of my dearest friends either. For again we remained well into the night talking and laughing as we often do in each other's company.

Tomorrow will arrive sooner than desired...

Thursday, February 25, 2010

February 25, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I am not ashamed to remit that someone has asked for my hand. Not, I must recount, in the typical sense, but Mr. Friendly asked that I might hold his hand. And while I smiled at the notion, he grew varying shades of pink and exited the room. Such a demeanor for a determined flirt like himself was quite startling. I certainly did not expect him to recoil the way he did.

Our hands never met, however, and I then took leave to instruct a music lesson. The eldest Mr. Jervey who so often requires my attention when I arrive was quite out of sight on this occasion, however. But he did make an appearance for less than a moment in order that he might discuss his own lessons with his father. During such an appearance, he smirked with embarrassment in my direction.

The former gentleman, I deem to be quite my senior. The latter, my junior. And neither seems to be comforted by my presence but rather embarrassed to have acknowledged it. What can such attitudes mean?

Perhaps tomorrow holds the answer...

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

February 24, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I adore the sound of the rain. I had really hoped that the winter had came and left, but it appears yet another bout of cold weather awaits. The rain, however is a sound most comforting. I have desired little else today than to remain at the estate in the company of a good book.

But as evening has arrived, I find myself in the company of Mr. Seacrest again. Such a gentleman holds a certain appeal for me. Alas he never returned post regarding an arrangement between the two of us. I suspect he was decidedly against the match.

Until tomorrow...

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

February 23, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I am pleased to inform you that in a little over two months, I shall be headed to the northern country to enjoy the scenery among the mountains and springs. I hasten to be on the way, but I suppose there is much to attend to before we can away. I can take comfort in that very fact that plans have been made and cannot be changed. I intend to partake in the sports of walking and riding, as well as a foxhunt or two. Perhaps one's cousin will be capable of teaching the art of horseback riding. I am unaccustomed to the live version and shall therefore require some coaching on the task. Nevertheless, I intend to be impressively happy.

I shall certainly hope to secure many portraits of the visit, and will eagerly share them with you upon my return. But alas, this shall not take place for quite some time.

It is also certain that I have found it quite difficult to concentrate on the tasks at hand with such excitement to come.

Would that tomorrow, I may have a clearer mind...

Monday, February 22, 2010

February 22, 2010

Dearest Diary,

It cannot be borne that one who prefers to make a fashion statement might contrarily wind up an embarrassment to herself and those around her. I had the unfortunate incident today of dressing as nicely as I tend to dress for occasions such as lecturing at the University, and in the course of spending the day with students much to their junior, the dress began to separate along the seams. It is a rare occasion that I would don such an article of clothing to begin with, but today's adventures secured in my heart the desire to dress in riding trousers for the remainder of the week.

Fortunately, I have a dear friend who is talented with a needle and thread and happens to keep them close at hand. I was rescued at last from misery and dispair. I shall again convey my thanks.

I do so hope that tomorrow's affairs will not be so decidedly fragile...

Sunday, February 21, 2010

February 21, 2010

Dearest Diary,

The presence of sunshine made a visit with Mr. Disney absolutely imperative today. And Father and I spent a great deal of time at the Disney estate. It was nice to visit and hear of Mr. Disney's tastes in literature and music. Such a host never fails to fascinate me.

I must confess, however, that I did not return for that missed meal from yesterday's services. Instead I shall hope the error does not occur next week. I am rather eager to return to the schoolhouse this week and such eagerness can be unaccounted for. Although I very much enjoy the children and observing their education as I do, it is quite unusual to look with such excitement on the return to one's occupation. Lady Pigeon, on the other hand, feels quite the opposite as I spend less time with her during such instruction.

It is with that anticipation however that I submit to my dreams for the evening. I shall return to you on the morrow...

Saturday, February 20, 2010

February 20, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Today's events were not unlike any other Saturday. I received a post from Mr. Friendly early in the afternoon and spent the chief of the day without company. Being alone certainly has its advantages at times. Today it was a necessity and I am therefore grateful for the success of such a venture.

The evening, however held the engagement of the weekly services where I was reminded that I did in fact arrive unaccompanied. This is not unusual nor highly significant on most occasions. Today, however, it happened to exclude me from one very important meal due to a mere oversight. I and two other unaccompanied attendees were simply not addressed at that time.

I am certain it was simply a mishap. Such errors have never been made before, in respect to me.

Perhaps I will attend another service on the morrow in order that I might partake in such a meal...

Friday, February 19, 2010

February 19, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I cannot with great eloquence express my accolades to the schoolchildren who participated in the recital this evening. It is my belief that each child played most beautifully, and probably more so than ever before. My pride cannot be hidden.

Following such an event, I had the good fortune of spending the evening with two of the most jovial ladies in this county. It was quite difficult to part from them and we therefore spent a good number of hours engaged in conversation and immense silliness. Much to the chagrin of Lady Pigeon who dislikes my absence for such a lengthy period. Being the ever playful hound that she is, it has become imperative to postpone rest for a romp instead.

Perhaps tomorrow we might spend more time together...

Thursday, February 18, 2010

February 18, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I have been remiss about informing you of the changes that have begun to take place. My afternoon recreation of taking a turn about the grounds of the estate has increased so much so that I am beginning to notice some differences in my figure. I have additionally kept a watchful eye on the sorts of foods on which I dine and am eager to avoid becoming overly robust before an eligible gentleman might take notice upon me.

The attitude of many recently is that one ought to not concern oneself with another's opinion, but as a single woman who clings to some manner of hope, I am not willing to let all things go and simply assume that a gentleman might regard me for my wit. Though it would be ideal if such were the case, I am most certain that a gentleman also requires a handsome figure to possess on his arm. I have no complaints about being such an adornment.

Do not belittle me either with such remarks about being the woman that I am and that it ought to be enough, for I am most certain that I, personally would have higher regard for myself, also, if such positive adjustments were to take place. And because I might improve in my own opinion, I would be all the more agreeable to a gentleman who might happen to take notice.

I shall attend once more to my exercise on the morrow...

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

February 17, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I was greatly amused yesterday when I arrived at Jervey Park where my young music apprentice resides. While the boy is quite eager to demonstrate his agility on the cornet, his elder brother seems quite intent recently on winning my affection during such visits. In the course of yesterday's lesson, the eldest Mr. Jervey made himself a nuissance with interruptions to bestow gifts of chocolate and a garrulous disruption. I found it all too amusing as the boy is still but a child, barely an adolescent. My apprentice, however, found these disruptions vulgar and insensitive to his growth as a musician. It took great restraint to not laugh heartily at the battle that ensued.

Would that a gentleman more advanced in years might engage in such a battle. For I duly enjoy chocolates.

Perhaps tomorrow?...

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

February 16, 2010

Dearest Diary,

As I prepare for the hymnsing in the morning, I am hasty to inform you that I have discovered the identity of the mysterious gentleman who wrote me verses on Sunday. He is not in fact a newcomer to this diary, but one who has been mentioned in passing, and will never achieve a more prominent status than that which he has already achieved. Mr. Friendly, as he is known to you, was practicing a bit of foolery and wrote me the letters which were deemed anonymous at the time. It certainly added a touch of excitement to the holiday, but I am disappointed to find they were not sincere. Not because of the author but because it might have held quite the intrigue if they turned out to be from one I've never mentioned.

Of a more delicate nature, however is the invitation I received this afternoon to the estate of a friend who was also hosting Mr. Voldemort for some conversation and sweets. Were I to accept the invitation, I fear my silent admiration may weaken to be less than silent. So being of sound mind, I declined the invitation, after only a few moments in such company. Such admiration cannot be borne and must be squelched immediately. I shall hasten to do so.

Of course these things take time, so until then, I shall only keep silent that I am not run away with my feelings.

Perhaps tomorrow might bring some clarity on the matter...

Monday, February 15, 2010

February 15, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I am delighted to inform you that the much anticipated visit with Mr. Disney could not have exceeded my expectations any more than it did. I thoroughly enjoy such visits and today's was no different. We were served lunch, and observed some musical renderings by some of Mr. Disney's American guests. Additionally, we engaged in conversation by the rocks with Mr. Tyler over a basket of rolls. Such a gentleman has a way of making all of one's insides turn about. All told it was a very successful visit, and I should like to repeat it on the morrow. Alas, I am to return to the schoolhouse tomorrow and yet another music lesson.

Another unique occurrence happened today. I was introduced to a gentleman who lives in this very county who was very eager to make my acquaintance. We have spoken only a few sentences to each other, but I am almost certain I shall hear from him again. I shall certainly inform you if I do.

For now I shall rest. I shall return to you on the morrow...

Sunday, February 14, 2010

February 14, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Today's holiday brought a rather intriguing and amusing correspondence from an anonymous writer. One who claimed to be a secret Valentine. I have no inkling whether the gentleman is of good merit or worthy of respect, but I am certain he has much command over the curl of his pen. He is apt to write beautiful verses which a lady cannot ignore with ease. I look forward to additional correspondence from the mysterious author and hope to someday acquire his identity. For now, at least, he has created quite an adventure. And what a day for it.

As for tomorrow, I intend to at last pay a visit to Mr. Disney with a dear friend and savour an unusual afternoon with naught but a single engagement to attend to. I find myself delightfully eager.

Would that tomorrow were here already...

Saturday, February 13, 2010

February 13, 2010

Dearest Diary,

This morning I had again the opportunity to deliver a lecture at the University and to attend the services on an unusual day. Both events proved to be quite enjoyable, though I am displeased to remit that the cooler temperatures have returned to the shire.

Because of such a day filled with engagements and responsibilities, I find myself unable to keep a watchful eye at present. I have lost the ability to battle with sleep any longer, and so I shall therefore retire for the night.

And return to you on the morrow...

Friday, February 12, 2010

February 12, 2010

Dearest Diary,

As the 14th day of the month draws nigh, I cannot help but savour the memory of Mr. Radar. I do not mean to imply that anything has happened to the gentleman, but I recall with some mixture of feelings the similar holidays we spent in each other's company. As a gentleman of some propriety, he was not unequal to arriving in dinner clothes and toting a rose. It is unfortunate that what transpired not once, but twice on such a day, was the dissolution of our attachment. I'm afraid the forthcoming holiday has never been kind to such a match. I expect no difference on this occasion.

I am not the type to fall ill at ease, however in the days surrounding this holiday. I enjoy all the fuss that is made over husbands and wives and the betrothed, and even that between school children. I was made a gift of several chocolates and delicacies today. I am certain that I shall be well-stocked for many days to come. And while I remember Mr. Radar at such a time of year, I look forward still to my encounters with Mr. Voldemort.

I wonder if one will occur on the morrow...

Thursday, February 11, 2010

February 11, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I cannot promise a story as exciting as the one I divulged yesterday. I received no unexpected letters and made no unexpected acquaintances. But I do not declare that it was the worse for the fact. I indeed quite enjoyed myself. I taught my weekly music lessons in the adjacent county and visited a favorite merchant for some special gifts for the school children. I also dined at an establishment whose proprietor is an Irishman by the name of McDonald. His chicken and potato recipes are worthy of high praise.

What concluded the evening was a carriage ride home that provided some not unsuitable scenery. Would that I had also paid a visit to Mr. Disney, such a day could rarely be outdone.

I am eager for tomorrow's adventures to begin and conclude, but I am certain there is much study to be done late into the hour. I shall try to write to you early, in that case. But apart from such rigourous study, I am curious what else tomorrow might hold...

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

February 10, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Today, I received a post of the most exciting nature. Mr. Voldemort commenced writing letters, and I tell you I instantly fell in love with his penmanship. It is quite like a young lady to be thrust into the pangs of love over a silly thing like penmanship. However it was not only the curl of his pen, but the content of the letter as well. He has confessed to admiration. Whether such admiration is one he should act further upon is unclear, but I am in such amiable spirits after such a letter. My hound and I have rested peacefully on the furniture with naught but a smile on our faces for the remainder of the evening.

Would that tomorrow should hold the same...

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

February 9, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I have always admired the life of the court musicians that travel from county to county playing dance reels and chamber music. It is a life I have aspired to on occasion. A most unbecoming role for a lady is that of a conductor of such orchestras, and yet I have somehow fallen into such a position. But I hold no disdain for the occupation and I find myself eager to study the methods of those gentlemen who fill the same and design my lessons after theirs. I am eager to note that the few children that participate in the ensemble under my tutelage are beginning to excel at a more rapid pace than only a few months previous. And I too have taken up multiple instruments as a hobby.

This evening's entertainment was spent on one of the newer models of what I remember as the sackbut. It has recently come to be known as the trombone. It certainly has no sort of proper, ladylike sound, but I cannot help but adore its unique style. Would that I were to use such an instrument to attract a gentleman, I believe I would be heartily laughed out and therefore remain a spinster for eternity. But in private, I shall continue on the apparatus. It amuses me so.

But no further tonight. Perhaps tomorrow....

Monday, February 8, 2010

February 8, 2010

Dearest Diary,

On a visit to the market today I had the fortunate incidence of bumping into no fewer than three eligible gentleman. After all three met my gaze, they smiled valiantly and then never met my gaze again. Upon reentering my carriage for the ride home with a certain sense of defeat, I noticed I had mistakenly placed my ring on my left hand rather than my right. Whatever the cause of their lack of attention, I have decided it to be their disinterest in infidelity. If I were presumed married, then the gentlemen can be presumed respectable. Well done, sirs!

As for a one Mr. Voldemort, he continues to hold my attention. I was fortunate enough to spend an unusual dose of time in his company today, and was able to behold his smile for a great portion of said visit.

Would that tomorrow could hold such fortune...

Sunday, February 7, 2010

February 7, 2010

Dearest Diary,

As the evening hours approach, I must begin to prepare for the dinner party I spoke of yesterday. I am certain it will be very late when I return home, so I thought it best to speak with you now.

This morning I attended services as usual and was delighted when a handsome gentleman took his seat next to mine. I was very disappointed however when he took leave again after speaking briefly with his mother and sister who also sat nearby. The parrish where I attend is quite large and so I have little hope of seeing the gentleman again, but I was encouraged by his brief company. He spoke not a word to me, but I am not deterred. I am not out to pursue him, I am simply feeling more encouraged that one is out there. And so my promises of careful dining and daily walks begin again. Perhaps they will be carried out this time. Perhaps I will become again discouraged.

Only tomorrow will tell...

Saturday, February 6, 2010

February 6, 2010

Dearest Diary,

It is my opinion that the most assured manner of making the acquaintance of a suitor worth the pursuit is to be in the very worst appearance possible to be received. If I take care to neglect my figure, my hair, and my manner of dress, it is entirely more probable that such a gentleman shall appear in my social circles. These sorts of things always happen when one is unprepared.

Contrarily, if I were to prepare for such an opportunity, one can assume that it will never arise. This is the curse of maidenhood.

However, I have resolved to think no more about it. And to aid in such a task, I have spent a great deal of time this evening in the company of Mr. and Mrs. Ricardo, and they amuse me so. Theirs is a rather unique union as he comes from the country of Cuba, and she from America. I do wish they would visit more often, for they are fine company indeed.

Tomorrow, however, I am to attend a dinner party hosted by General Manning, over a very large Soup Bowl. When the General hosts such an event, it promises excitement. Would that the general were not already married, I should think him a fine husband.

Until tomorrow...

Friday, February 5, 2010

February 5, 2010

Dearest Diary,

The weather turned out to be rather unsavoury this afternoon leaving me much longer than I expected within the walls of the schoolhouse. The carriage ride home even proved to be particularly soggy. Before returning home, however I became engaged in a discussion of history and the origins of some of the more popular court dances. There were a few in our party who disagreed on the particulars, but it turned out to be a lively discussion that held my interest for quite some time. I cannot say which story was correct, but I did enjoy the subject very much. It has always been these sorts of details which have intrigued me so. With the anticipation of participating in a ball on the morrow, I was eager to hear what each had learned in their reading. I intend to do more reading on the topic when time permits.

But above such knowledge and understanding of the subject, it is the participation in the exercise of a dance that thrills me. Would that such opportunities came around more often.

It is uncertain, however whether there will be dancing tomorrow...

Thursday, February 4, 2010

February 4, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Tonight I had the fortune of attending a recital of the schoolchildren. Many played the pianoforte. One the violin. Several demonstrated the waltz and lieder that is now becoming popular among our social gatherings. Dinner was observed with a full three courses and it is now very late of hour. I am not one for rising at dawn, but I fear that is precisely what must be. The evening must come to an end.

But before I close, I must remit there is much to ponder tonight. I have again bade goodbye to a gentleman about whom you've heard an extraordinary amount. But I have not ruled out for keeps, Mr. Voldemort. It may be noted, however, that I have not ruled him in, either. I do intend to participate in many a cotillion or scotch reel before the week's end, and that shall delight me so.

But not until tomorrow...

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

February 3, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Again I have spent the evening in the delightful company of good friends and encouraging conversation. When one is feeling down, it is most fortunate to seek the company of such friends, and to be welcomed without invitation. My manners have been found wanting and I am certain it is the cause of very little sleep.

Whatever the reason, I have not felt the cheeriest. This can be unaccounted for, however, because I was also privy to an invitation by another certain gentleman to accompany him for dinner in the coming weeks. I accepted, but find him unaccustomed to following through on such a task. I shall inform you at once if the meal is to take place.

But I am certain it will not be tomorrow...

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

February 2, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Two hundred is not a fantastical number, but I am told it is the number of evenings we have spent in each other's company. In such a time, I recollect that we have made many acquaintances. Do you recall our visit to the town of Pensacola? Everything was neat and proper there, and gentlemen were seldom in our company. Or perhaps you remember the small number that showed up at Sunday Services, or that have written after some lengthy absence. It appears, I have not been without opportunity, but I am convinced that I am not the woman who could make these happy.

I often wonder if such a gentleman and I have already met. Perhaps there is need for one to intercede. Or perhaps, he is to be a new acquaintance in due time. Mr. Radar continues to appear from time to time. Mr. Voldemort and Mr. Friendly also require my company some afternoons.

I am eager for a turn about the gardens with a certain two or three who have been mentioned over the course of our correspondence, but as our visit tonight comes to an end, I am satisfied with my position in the community. If I am to never marry, I shall be forced to pine for those I have already cast aside I shall be quite content for the duration of my existence.

But I should very much like to avoid such contentment. Perhaps such avoidance might begin tomorrow?...

Monday, February 1, 2010

February 1, 2010

Dearest Diary,

It appears that much has transpired over the course of the last seventy-two hours or so, and yet also very little. Would that I could divulge so much to you, I would be spilling forth, I fear. However, I must give way to my better judgment which deems I say very little. And very little is what I shall say, but not because I cannot say much, but because there is actually very little to tell. To own to affection, is but a small detail. I had bargained a fortnight ago to be "crossed in love," and I tell you, I am so very much.

He is not the gentleman I should truly desire, yet beyond my disdain for such a match, I cannot help but be intrigued by him. And as such, to be found completely without intellect, wit, or charm in his company. I tell you, at one word from him, I am but a fool.

I have heard tell that such attention from a gentleman can have such an effect. I fumble with words, etiquette, and posture whenever he is near and if that is not quite enough, I give way to uncontrollable relentless laughter.

How can such behaviour be modified? How can I convince myself of his shortcomings and therefore desire to have no more to do with him? I am certain that I must be firm on the matter.

But is there harm in finding one attractive? Certainly not!

Dearest Diary, I must, however, admit that I am trifling with you. What I write is something that would certainly add excitement to such a story, if it were true, would it not? Can you deny that your curiosity was aroused? Unfortunately, we shall have to save such remarks for another entry. The above is candidly untrue.

But perhaps tomorrow?...