Friday, April 30, 2010

April 30, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Today, the schoolchildren and I visited a small village with some historical significance. Although a short visit, it was indeed highly educational. I am now eager to pay a visit to some of the other villages in this bit of the country.

I had anticipated an evening spent in the company of a dear friend, but such plans failed in the course of the evening. How fortunate that I instead shared a visit with the eldest Miss Lindsay. It is not uncommon that she and I might talk of gentlemen, and if you should like to know what sort of gentlemen were discussed, you shall have to write to her directly. I shall not remit it to you tonight.

But perhaps tomorrow...

Thursday, April 29, 2010

April 29, 2010

Dearest Diary,

This evening was full of hussle for sure. From a rehearsal with a small chamber ensemble to a music lesson to a meal with a friend my thoughts somehow drifted to a previous interest. I began to reflect on the countless hours that ladies go through agonizing over their manner of dress when they might catch sight of a certain gentleman. And while some will advise to be true to themselves in their manner of dress, it is not always the sagest of wisdom. While quite unfortunate, it is apparent that being oneself is not always the surest strategy of becoming a bride.

Perhaps that is extreme but at the very least, it is not the practise for obtaining courtship. There can be such anguish over appearances and I wish it were not so, but I have no command over such matters. Therefore, upon my return from the mountains and springs, I shall have no more excuses for neglecting my figure. Perhaps then I shall be satisfied with my wardrobe.

There is much more to ponder, however, on the morrow...

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

April 28, 2010

Dearest Diary,

We are nearing the weekend when Sister and I shall travel to the mountainous countryside to visit our cousins. The anticipation is taking a great toll on my patience but there is much to see to before we depart. Tomorrow holds the weekly music lesson in a neighbouring village followed by a visit with one of my dearest of friends. The Friday next holds a bit of excitement of its own as the children and I venture to a spot where much history abounds. This should bring much Happiness to all of us, I declare. And such a day is not complete without the company of friends. It is imperative, however that the evening end early on such a day for there is packing to be done.

I shall commence such a task tomorrow...

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

April 27, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I adore a day spent in the company of friends. And today was such a day. I cannot deny that the schoolchildren are eager for holiday, and I whole-heartedly agree with them. However, it has made the lessons quite difficult to complete. Fortunately, dinner was a welcome change from such monotony. The company, while delightful, was even improved upon by a handsome stranger, who served the courses. I must admit that I am not often taken by one's eyes. Or rather I do not often notice the details of such a feature, but Mr. Adam's eyes were particularly engaging. While certain company is eager to see me wed, there began a bit of foolery toward the close of the meal. But I am not unequal to a conversation with the gentleman. I do not pretend to assume there will be any further encounter with Mr. Adam, but I am delighted to have shared said conversation, and may find myself returning to such an establishment for a future visit.

Though perhaps not tomorrow...

Monday, April 26, 2010

April 26, 2010


Dearest Diary,

Such excitement has filled my afternoon as it was my last lecture at the University for the spring. Additionally, my recent book has sold its first 2 copies. This pleases me enormously. I have again come to believe that the gentleman meant for me is one I have yet to meet. While the company of a few gentlemanly acquaintances I oft enjoy, I am not convinced that they are the sort with which I might consider matrimony. This is a rather freeing discovery to say the least.

Coupled with the excitement of the day, is a certain amount of exhaustion as well. As it turns out the weather proved to be quite dreadful overnight and Lady Pigeon scarcely left my side as a result of the thunder and lightning. I should hope tonight is slightly more peaceful.

I look forward to tomorrow...

Sunday, April 25, 2010

April 25, 2010

Dearest Diary,

It was quite difficult to awaken this morning and as a result I found myself with no place to be seated at the weekly services. There were indeed a great many parishioners today. I instead was resigned to listen from outside the doors and with great difficulty over the conversation of the children close by. Fortunately, the afternoon meal was another occasion for discussion, oft more meaningful than the clergy are sometimes apt to provide. I mean no disrespect to those of that profession, but rather I mean to declare how intelligent I find my father to be on matters of the Bible.

Again I found myself in the company of good books for the afternoon and with the leisure to tend to matters around the home. As for the evening, we were invited to partake in the meal's final course at the home of the eldest son of my father. Engaging conversation and laughter ensued.

The week ahead promises much activity and for that I shall insist on being well-rested. I shall return to you on the morrow.

Saturday, April 24, 2010

April 24, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Perhaps pie is a peculiar selection for the morning meal, but it does the deed properly. I had never heard of some of the concoctions that were around, but I did enjoy two or three of them. The chamber music was especially pleasant and the sun was certainly unforgiving for this time of year. The company, however was the high point of the afternoon.

Dinner was hosted by Mother and Father this evening and followed by the much-anticipated visit to the Disney estate, accompanied by the eldest Miss Lindsay and another dear friend. The activities in which we were to partake were both comical and surprising at times. And most assuredly something I should very much like to repeat some day.

Though perhaps not tomorrow...

April 23, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I am quite certain I have conceded before that the sort of searching that is at the forefront of our correspondence is not something to be taken lightly or one that is reserved for the more aged individual. Whilst sitting a spell out of doors with the schoolchildren today, I was reminded of just how young one might be when he starts thinking of matrimony. As I visited with another schoolteacher, a pupil approached us with a very discouraged demeanor. With heavy heart he began to explain that he could not find one young girl who would agree to a courtship with him. I can only assume he expected my friend to assist in such an endeavour. But when he was asked to concern himself with play instead, the boy seemed to accept that as a reasonable solution. Only momentarily, however, for moments later, he was begging for the hand of another young maiden. She also refused, appalled at the suggestion.

As for the remainder of the evening, no measure of Happiness can compare to the company of friends. I saw many today. And pledge to see a few more on the morrow...

Thursday, April 22, 2010

April 22, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I am most grateful this evening for the kind, encouraging words of friends. When one finds herself a bit discouraged, it is most fortunate to have the sorts of friendships I have indeed been blessed with. The day has brought upon me new acquaintances for which I am truly excited. I should note that such acquaintances are not those which might someday turn to matrimony, but ones which shall prove quite helpful in the development of my chamber ensemble.

And as the weekend once again draws nigh, there is Happiness to anticipate in the days ahead. I have received an invitation to an unusual sort of festival on Saturday, which shall be followed by a social engagement at the Disney estate. The eldest Miss Lindsay and I are accustomed to exploring the gardens and visiting with the many guests who frequent such an estate this time of the year.

But that is not until Saturday. I wonder at what tomorrow holds...

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

April 21, 2010

Dearest Diary,

It has been nearly 280 days since you and I began this correspondence and I find I am still in the same troubled state of being unwed. I do not fully begrudge such a fact, but I do find that I have ceased the sort of advice that you had once given me. I have not visited the sorts of organizations to which I have been directed. I am occasional, at best, in limiting my meal courses, and I rarely take to the impulse for recreation. I have met very few gentlemen who meet the sort of standards I require in a potential husband, not the least of which is being a like-minded parishioner who is himself unwed. The cause of such a conversation between you and I, Diary, is no less important to me than when we first set out, but I find myself a trifle discouraged this evening. Would that you could offer me the sage wisdom I desire, if it does not consist of advice against matrimony. I'm not fit for such discouragement.

Might I hear from you tomorrow?

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

April 20, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Today was marked by Happiness. Upon my return to the schoolchildren, I was able to spend some time with the chamber ensemble which seems to be vastly improving. And returning home, I mounted my pedal horse and took off for a brief ride in the country. Such an escape is quite good for one's peace of mind. And I'm told also for that of her figure. I should hope for the latter especially.

And now for the selection of my favorite hymns. For the weekly hymnsing returns tomorrow...

Monday, April 19, 2010

April 19, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I cannot help but admit that today has been exceedingly relaxing and enjoyable. There are times when one must give such days to herself in order that health and well-being might be restored. Tomorrow I return to the schoolhouse and hope to maintain the peacefulness I garnered today. I again spent much time on the pianoforte this evening and am expecting a visit from Mother and Father in just a short while. Then, I shall to bed.

So, what of tomorrow?...

Sunday, April 18, 2010

April 18, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I have been stricken by such a violent ailment this weekend that will not seem to pass. A medic by the name of Greene advised that a certain amount of recreation will cure such misery, and after visiting awhile with my dear friend Mrs. Schriver, I decided to give it a try. I set out for the very sort of recreation she and I had just discussed. Although I felt marginally better at the close of such an activity, it was only in attitude as opposed to health. I shall insist on resting further tomorrow in hopes that such discomfort should soon away. If such rest is to be attained, however, it is quite obvious that I ought to close for tonight.

I shall return to you on the morrow...

Saturday, April 17, 2010

April 17, 2010

Dearest Diary,

In about a fortnight, I shall be on my way to the mountainous regions of the country. I am greatly looking forward to such a visit as I shall have the opportunity for some enjoyable recreation, as well as the company of some much-loved cousins.

As for today's activities, I spent much of the afternoon in practice at the pianoforte. It has been some time since there has been such an instrument in the house, but when our summer guest arrived, so did the piano. I have missed playing and proved it as such by doing little else today. I assure you that my fingers and wrists have not forgiven me yet.

Yesterday's late night made it quite sensible to remain at the estate today and it was nice to have not left the house. Lady Pigeon, I believe, was quite content with my company. And I with hers.

Tomorrow, however, are the weekly services, and I'm sure afternoon tea with Mother and Father. I shall see you on the morrow...

Friday, April 16, 2010

April 16, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I have become convinced sometimes that many feel it is necessary to either come to an understanding with a gentleman or deflect him entirely. I am not certain that is the case. It seems as though there are times when it is not necessary to know one way or the other about him, but perhaps have the potential for courtship with another. It is amazing how quickly one can squelch thoughts about someone with the mention of another name. Perhaps that is all I'm looking for. Not to depart from the one, but to entertain thoughts of someone new instead.

Perhaps that new someone will present himself tomorrow...

Thursday, April 15, 2010

April 15, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Again it is late of hour as I write to you this evening. I am most incapable of going to sleep at a reasonable time, I find. I have encountered a problem I have encountered before and while I was unable to solve such a difficulty in December, I am determined to reach a conclusion tonight. I may well be unsuccessful. However, I am unaccustomed to not finding an answer. This ought to explain the hour at which I write. Perhaps not. Perhaps the hour only explains how unintelligible this entry might sound.

I shall decode it on the morrow...

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

April 14, 2010

Dearest Diary,

It is perhaps a peculiar evening to denounce the sorts of foods which are provided free of cost in most eateries tomorrow. But I have again decided that waiting for an urge is sometimes a preposterous idea. I am rarely compelled to move so vigourously around the gardens, nor am I interested in eating but a salad for a meal. But there are moments when such action is required whether I am particularly excited about it or not. Urges cannot be trusted to arrive when they are most needed.

So this evening, I took matters into my own hands. I dutifully increased the pace of my evening turn and declined the opportunity for dining out. It seems but one evening and only one occasion, but I am hopeful it might make repeating the occasion the tiniest bit easier.

I can certainly think of some pleasant company if he would consent to join me (though I would never ask) on the morrow...

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

April 13, 2010

Dearest Diary,

This afternoon, I was fortunate to share a spot of tea with Mr. Friendly. Although such occasions are not always encouraged, they are typically enjoyable ones. I cannot say that today was different.

Following the vigourous examination this morning, I had a battle of wills with the rain that continued throughout the remainder of the day. On my evening turn with Lady Pigeon, the rain, at last was victorious. I must now sit and dry before donning my nightclothes and closing my eyes.

I have already commenced begrudging tomorrow...

Monday, April 12, 2010

April 12, 2010

Dearest Diary,

It appears I owe a certain gentleman an apology. I was much too familiar in my address to him in yesterday's entry, and I shall very much like to make it up to him. Henceforth he shall be known as Col. Raven, for I am certain he has an affinity for the sorts of risks which might liken him to the bird's famous words. Nevertheless, I am pleased to know his birthday was a delightful one.

As for today, it has been a bit of a slower pace than what the children and I are accustomed to. There is much Happiness to be found in such a pace. It has allowed for the examination of the moon and stars as visible from our schoolhouse windows.

It occurs to me that such scenery is a delightful diversion and could be made even more delightful with the proper company. But now is not the evening for it. Perhaps tomorrow?...

Sunday, April 11, 2010

April 11, 2010


Dearest Diary,

Another birthday makes an appearance today and I hope that the gentleman is celebrating with enthusiasm. Mr. Dodd and I are longtime friends and have celebrated together on many occasions. Would that I were with him today to celebrate. At any rate, Mr. Dodd, if you are reading, I wish you the best on your special day.

As for the remainder of the day, I did lunch with my sister as promised and Father proved to be most enlightening in our conversations. Upon my return to the estate, it became imperative that the wheel of my carriage be given its due examination, but it failed to perform well on such a test. The gentleman whom I had hoped might pound it back in to shape in fact refused to give it his attention, stating the law forbade him. Instead, I purchased a substance known to help in such matters and returned to Father's estate for his assistance. I am one single girl with a dreadful propensity for carriage ailments. And as Ms. Austen might remark, it is one very great argument in favour of matrimony. Nevertheless, my wheel has been nursed along for some time, and I shall hope to continue to do the same, in spite of the law.

A different sort of week, however, begins tomorrow...

Saturday, April 10, 2010

April 10, 2010

Dearest Diary,

It has indeed been a long day. I remitted to you yesterday of my plans for travel today, and travel is what I did. The carriage ride to the southern county was quite long, but made shorter by the company of my mother. Reaching our destination we began, almost immediately, the packing we had come to assist with. By evening, we had fit everything into the three carriages we had available and were on our way home. Another lengthy carriage ride found me back at the Granada Estate after admittedly drifting off a time or two. It then became the task of unlaoding the carriages and making our summer guest feel at home. Perhaps I was a bit sleepy to accomplish such a task with any grace. For that I am most apologetic. I am greatly enthusiastic about such a guest.

And about lunching with her on the morrow...

Friday, April 9, 2010

April 9, 2010


Dearest Diary,

I am not one to refuse an opportunity to perform on the pianoforte or perhaps even the cornet on occasion. But it is not a request I receive frequently. Today has proved to be rather different, however. There was a time, perhaps you are aware, that I was able to use my musical proficiency as an occupation of sorts. I performed a parrishes and at high tea on a regular occasion. This was when I resided in the county Marion. But since my move to the south of the country, I have had little occasion to perform. Once at an Opera House in the village of Panama, and as a member of a chamber ensemble for the Sunday services. And there was that week where many gathered in the ville de Louis. Apart from these engagements, I have otherwise utilized my talents in the schoolhouses and universities.

This evening however, whilst dining with friends at an establishment known for its more southern faire, I was recommended to the ensemble as an accomplished cornetist. And although the style of music is not what I am accustomed to, I was almost immediately offered a position within the ensemble. And this on the heels of quite a different offer in the morning.

It seems there is much to consider this evening, but it must wait for now. A long day of travel awaits tomorrow...

Thursday, April 8, 2010

April 8, 2010


Dearest Diary,

It is absolutely befuddling what one week might do to one's capacity for hard labour. I find I have been nothing but tired since Sunday morning. I am delighted that tomorrow brings the close of the week. I have had several offers of amusement for the weekend and I am yet uncertain which I shall engage in. I do so hope, however that at least a small amount of time might be allocated to rest for I am very much in need of it.

Would that my day had begun like that of the passengers aboard this extraordinary vessel, I might have more to write to you. As it is, there has been little to brighten the past couple of days, but I am certain that tomorrow shall be different. After all, the week's end ought to account for some glimmer of Happiness.

I shall look for it on the morrow...

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

April 7, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Exhaustion befalls me yet again. After such a lengthy day with the schoolchildren, I then retired back at the estate only to begin preparations for the evening meal. Mother was able to join me for such a dinner and we then began the long process of clearing space for the eldest Miss Lindsay to visit for the summer months. She shall occupy one of the vacant rooms in the estate. I am most eager for her arrival for it has been some time since we have had the pleasure of living in such close proximity to one another.

As for gentlemen, I have been offered an introduction to one who might reason to be pleasant company from time to time, but he appears to be quite my junior. I am not certain I am eager for such a match. I am certain however that the Disney estate is an elegant place for such an acquaintance to begin.

I shall think more on the matter tomorrow...

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

April 6, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Again I return to you with naught to say but how overwhelmingly sleepy I have become. Again the wheel of my carriage has become mishapen and a nuissance of great proportions. I was unable to away from the schoolhouse until nigh on evening today and for that I am immensely tired. The return to such a place comes quite early in the morning, but there is the weekly hymnsing to anticipate. Would that my fingers did not cringe from the preparation this evening.

Perhaps they shall feel better on the morrow...

Monday, April 5, 2010

April 5, 2010

Dearest Diary,

The return to the spring lessons was not so unfavourable today. I have dared to hope that the next few weeks might be without fierce quarrels or disputes. I have been taught to wonder whether there is in fact a summer holiday that approaches. I am told it is a few fortnights away. There is much to be done prior to its arrival.

My elder sister is due to arrive at the Grenada estate in only a short time and I find myself quite eager for her companionship. She brings with her Mr. Sinatra, her faithful hound who goes by the common name of Hank. I particularly enjoy his company, but I am uncertain of Lady Pigeon's reception of him. There will be quite an adjustment period.

Meanwhile, my presence is required quite early in the morning, so I must bid you goodnight for now. Until tomorrow...

Sunday, April 4, 2010

April 4, 2010


Dearest Diary,

It was a pleasure this morning to attend the services and sing the hymns that I love so well. It was a great day for remembering the Easter holiday. Lunch was plentiful and the sport of croquet was an excellent diversion for the afternoon.

I am disappointed to note that tomorrow begins the spring lessons at the schoolhouse. I am pleased however that the week's holiday has allowed me some rest and I am eager to return to the friends I have seen little of this week. Perhaps the coming week can be marked by Happiness and contentment.

We will see to it on the morrow...

Saturday, April 3, 2010

April 3, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I have found myself up at an unreasonable hour this evening. It seems I am trying to fit in too many activities before the commencement of the spring lessons on Monday. In the meantime, I have suspended my search for the remainder of the holiday in order that I might celebrate the Easter holidays. The Sunday services I expect to be attended heavily on the morrow. It is of course no surprise that I will not be there at sunrise, but instead a more late morning service. That is to be followed by lunch at Mother and Father's estate in the company of family.

The remainder of the day is yet to be determined. I shall advise you of its contents on the morrow...

Friday, April 2, 2010

April 2, 2010

Dearest Diary,

There are a few who dared to hope, as I, that it was not some kind of April Foolery, but I am most certain that it was. There was, in fact, no letter at all from Mr. Derrick and I am forced at last to give him up. It might have provided the much needed amusement that this diary is wanting, but for now, I must continue my search.

There is a question of standards to be raised at certain moments in life and I have been urged by a few to not set so many. Perhaps it is the right of a schoolgirl to desire certain things in a husband, but at thirty years of age (or perhaps even older as the case may be), is it necessary to in fact grow lenient with one's expectations? I know that you cannot be certain of all the qualifications I seek, but I have come to the conclusion that age is no reason to make exceptions to rules which are solidly grounded in Biblical principles. There needn't be any reason to dispose of such mandates and least of all because I am older.

This does not mean however than I am as particular in the gentlemen to which I am introduced and as always, I welcome such introductions. I might even consent to observing tea with the gentleman. But when it comes to a question of marriage, I reserve the right to decline.

But such a question is reserved for a day to come. Perhaps not tomorrow...

Thursday, April 1, 2010

April 1, 2010


Dearest Diary,

I had every intention of introducing you to Mr. Derrick if you were interested to make his acquaintance. It is no secret that I was quite taken by him at our first meeting. But this morning while visiting my sister in the south of the country, I was quite surprised to be awakened by carrier pigeon with a request from said gentleman. It is apparent that while requiring my information for the horse race, he had taken careful note of where I was to holiday that very afternoon. Upon my leave he immediately put pen to parchment and drafted a letter of such eloquence and penmanship that I have ne'er borne witness to before. Could it be that he was as much taken by me as I by him?

Could it be or was it simply a case of April Foolery? I shall fill you in on the morrow...