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SELECTIONS FROM THE DIARIES OF 
 WILLIAM APPLETON 
 
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 Selections from the Diaries of 
 
 tVilliatn *Appleton 
 
 1786-1862 
 
 S3 
 
 Boston 
 
 Privately Printed 
 
 1922 
 
COPYRIGHT, 1922, BY SUSAN M. LORING 
 
 A3 
 
 D. B. UPDIKE • THE MERRYMOUNT PRESS • BOSTON 
 
 BOSTON COLLEGE LIBRARY 
 
 CHESTNUT HIU. MA' 
 
 BOSTON COLLIE LIBRAE j 
 
 6HESTMUT WWr,. ftf fr ^1 <■' ? 
 
 MAR 2 1990 
 
NOTE 
 
 OUR ancestor William Appleton was a successful and 
 well-known merchant of Boston. It seems to me worth while 
 to try to picture him to his descendants by means of the diaries 
 which he kept for many years. 
 
 I have tried to bring out the most salient and interesting parts 
 of his life by selections from these diaries, but I find it impossible 
 to present him to others as I myself have come to know him through 
 them. 
 
 'This book tells of his visits to his mother, of his visiting his 
 sick children and friends who are sick, and of his suffering 
 with them, and of his kindness to the relatives of his parents 
 and to those of his wife; but his diaries tell of such loving deeds 
 over and over again. 
 
 The book tells of his dinner parties, and of his many friends 
 who came to the house; but his diaries tell of his friends coming 
 and going all the time, and much stress is laid on the love he has 
 for his friends. 
 
 The book tells of his devotion to the Church services, to those of 
 his own particular church, and to its ministers, thus showing his 
 deep appreciation of the Spiritual Life that they stood for; of his 
 feelings of sinfulness and the searchings of his own heart; but his 
 diaries tell of these acts and these thoughts over and over again. 
 
 Susan M. Loring 
 
 A Granddaughter 
 May, 1922 
 
CONTENTS 
 
 PAGE 
 EARLY LIFE, 1786-1832 3 
 
 WINTER IN SICILY, 1816-1817 8 
 
 DIARY JOTTINGS, 1818-1836 31 
 
 THE DIARY OF 1837-1862 52 
 
ILLUSTRATIONS 
 
 William Appleton,from a photograph Frontispiece 
 
 House at 34. Beacon Street facing page 6 
 
 William Appleton 
 
 from a miniature owned by Mrs. G. von L. Meyer 3 1 
 
 House at Brook line 65 
 
 William Appleton, from a portrait painted by Healy 133 
 
 Trustees of Humane Society, l8j8 209 
 
SELECTIONS FROM THE DIARIES 
 
EARLY LIFE: 1786-1832 
 
 1832 
 
 JANUARY. I regret much having given up the plan 
 of keeping a memorandum of the passing events 
 daily. It is possible some of my family may be inter- 
 ested in knowing the following facts. I was born in the 
 North Parish of Brookfield in the year 1786, November 
 16th. My Father, the Rev d Joseph Appleton, died in 
 July, 1795, 1 leaving my Mother (formerly Mary Hook), a 
 most energetic and excellent Woman, celebrated for wit 
 and beauty, the latter lasted to old age, with Two sons and 
 Three daughters and a property worth about four Thou- 
 sand five hundred dollars, besides my mother's property, 
 worth about the same. My mother sold the effects left by 
 my father and removed to Hawke, Kingston, her native 
 place, near Exeter, N. H., where she had an estate in- 
 herited from 2 her father, worth about Three Thousand 
 dollars. In the year 1798 she Married Maj. Daniel Gould 
 of Lyndborough, N. H., to which place We (the children) 
 removed with her. My brother Phineas soon went into a 
 Store, and I was sent to School at New Ipswich and After- 
 wards to Francestown; in 1800 to Tyngsboro; the follow- 
 ing year to Temple; I resided with Artemas Wheeler till 
 
 1 Aged 44, of typhus fever, called "Spotted fever," which he caught while min- 
 istering to his people in their great need during an epidemic in the town, caused 
 by the importation of infected rags used for manufacturing purposes. He was a 
 graduate of Brown University. 
 
 * Or given by. 
 
4 William Appleton [1832 
 
 about nineteen to twenty years Old. I went into business 
 in Temple with the property I inherited, amounting to 
 about seven hundred dollars and two hundred I drew in 
 a Lottery. At the end of the year I sold my Stock, having 
 made about eight hundred dollars. Soon after, I came to 
 Boston and for a time resided with How & Spear; they 
 kept a West India Goods store. I went into business in 
 1807 with N. Giddings; we kept at the Corner of India and 
 Central Street, the only Store occupied in the Street; our 
 business was the buying and selling of West India goods 
 and Crockery ware. I continued with him in business till 
 the autumn of 1809. Then considering myself worth about 
 four thousand dollars Bought the Ship " Triumphant " at 
 Salem, for five Thousand dollars, with Gassett, Upham & 
 Co., and went in her to Fayal, where I had her put under 
 Portuguese Colours, and she departed for Liverpool. I took 
 passage in Mr. Heard's Ship with Mr. & Mrs. Bowdoin. 
 On our arrival in the Channel, the wind being adverse, we 
 landed at Kinsale; thence we went to Cork & Dublin, then 
 to Holyhead & Liverpool. On my arrival I found my Ship 
 had been captured by a French Privateer; but some two 
 weeks after that, she was retaken and brought to Plymouth, 
 where I went to take charge of my property. I remained 
 in England till July when I embarked in the brig " Eliza," 
 Capt. Gardner, with about ten thousand pounds of Goods, 
 for account of myself & Parker, Appleton & Co. These 
 goods and another importation I sold, and at the close of 
 the year 1811 found myself worth about ten thousand dol- 
 lars. I went from Philadelphia to North Carolina, where I 
 
1832] Early Life 5 
 
 loaded two vessels with Naval Stores for England; from 
 there I went to Charleston & then in the Ship "Ceres," Capt. 
 Webber, I went to Liverpool, where I found an embargo 
 was laid in the United States, which was considered pre- 
 paratory to war with England. In June, 1812, 1 was in the 
 House of Commons attending the debates, when it was 
 announced that orders in Council which related to Ameri- 
 can Ships would be modified or repealed, which was sup- 
 posed to be the cause of difficulty between the two gov- 
 ernments. I at once commenced the purchasing of goods, 
 and within One Month had thirty thousand pounds of 
 goods on the way or in preparation for the United States, 
 when we were informed that War had actually been de- 
 clared by the Government of the United States. This caused 
 me much trouble & anxiety. In August I embarked for 
 Boston in the Ship " Roxanna." When I got to Boston I 
 found much distress and anxiety caused by the War. The 
 most of the remainder of this year and a part of 1813 I 
 passed in Philadelphia & Baltimore. When I had closed 
 up my importations and settled with N. W. & C. H. Ap- 
 ple ton, I thought myself worth sixty Thousand dollars. I 
 did not attend to any business of importance during the 
 war till the Autumn of 1814. I engaged in a Matrimonial 
 Speculation, the whole result of which is not ascertained. 
 In January, 1815, I was married. 1 Soon after, Peace was 
 made between this Country and Great Britain, which 
 caused universal joy. In the Spring of 1815 I laid plans 
 
 1 Jan. 9, 1 8 1 5, m. Mary Ann Cutler, daughter James and Mehitable Cutler and 
 granddaughter Gov. James Sullivan. 
 
6 William Appleton [1832 
 
 for future Business. Commenced the building of the ships 
 "Telegraph," "Courier," and afterwards "Minerva." Be- 
 fore they were finished I was attacked by the dispepsey, so 
 called. With these difficulties I contended till the Autumn; 
 when in November I embarked for Charleston, where I 
 passed the Winter. I returned in a much worse State than 
 I left. The Summer was passed in travelling, a most mis- 
 erable existence; very great irritability, but God knows, 
 not without great suffering. In the Autumn I embarked 
 with My Wife & Dr. James for the Mediterranean. A par- 
 ticular account of the voyage & journey may be found in 
 another Manuscript. We passed the Winter in Sicily, then 
 went to Rome, Paris, London and embarked in the Au- 
 tumn of 1817 for Charleston, where we passed the Winter. 
 In April following we returned to Boston, much improved 
 in health. During my absence I expended about ten thou- 
 sand dollars, which sum I made in shipments from Sicily 
 to the United States & England, and in goods from Eng- 
 land to Charleston. In the year 1818 and summer of 1819 
 we lived at Lodgings; in the autumn of 1819 I purchased 
 the House 1 in which I have since lived from Mr. Nathan 
 Appleton at $ 14,000 & $1000 for Glasses, Carpets, etc. 
 This year I went into business with Messrs. Paige & Chase, 
 which continued six years. I made by that concern about 
 thirty thousand dollars and carried on considerable busi- 
 ness on my individual account, my health feeble, yet able 
 to attend to Business. 
 
 After dissolving with Paige & Chase, I went consider- 
 
 1 54 Beacon Street, now owned by Mrs. George von L. Meyer. 
 
'S^e^ct rots ^/Ov 
 
1832] Early Life 7 
 
 ably into the Manufacturing business, and by the advance 
 on Stocks, purchases and Sales I made considerable money. 
 But I have nearly paid my family expenses by participat- 
 ing in Commissions with Southern Houses ; my purchases 
 with Prince, Ward, King & Co., etc., etc. My property has 
 increased every year since I have been in Business except 
 the year 1829. 
 
 January 1st, 1829, I thought myself worth $200,000; 
 1830, More effects than in 1829 but property depreciated, 
 $180,000; 1831, $280,000; 1832, $330,000. 
 
 My success in business is uncommon, no man in Boston 
 of the Age, I am forty-five, has made as much, and only 
 one, David Sears, possesses as much probably. My repu- 
 tation, I fancy, stands much higher than it deserves as a 
 man of talents, but I do not wish or intend to undeceive 
 the Publick. 
 
WINTER IN SICILY: 1816-1817 
 
 1816 
 
 SEPTEMBER 30^, Monday. A pleasant morning; 
 rose early and went to my Store to make prepara- 
 tion for sailing in the Ship " Roxanna" for the Medi- 
 terranean. At two o'clock, Mrs. Apple ton & myself went 
 on board with Dr. James & Mr. Porter, to be our fellow 
 passengers. Mother, Mr. & Mrs. William Sullivan, Mr. 
 & Mrs. Nathan Appleton, Sarah & Harriet Cutler accom- 
 panyed us to the ship to see us embark. Mr. Rice & Mr. 
 Tilden went with us to the Narrows. My feelings on sep- 
 arating from our friends can much easier be imagined than 
 described. My spirits are good, and much strengthened by 
 seeing my wife show so much fortitude on the occasion; 
 she has hardly shed a tear. We are now at Anchor in the 
 narrows, seven miles from Boston. 
 
 OCTOBER I st , Tuesday. Light east wind; we remain 
 at Anchor. The Captain is getting everything in 
 order for the voyage. I do not feel in as good spirits as 
 yesterday; although I think I shall return to my native 
 Country, yet I am aware that is not the impression of my 
 friends generally; I am weak and only able to take very 
 little food. I think of giving up my present diet of beef 
 and trying milk; I am in hopes that I shall be able to 
 eat more then. I have done of late with, say 4 oz. of beef 
 and a small biscuit in the whole day. My present weight 
 
1816] Winter in Sicily 9 
 
 is 103 lbs. Wednesday, 2 nd . At twelve o'clock the ship got 
 under way; we have a pleasant day as to the weather, — 
 but the reverse is my feeling when I recollect that the wind 
 is wafting us fast from our dear friends. I have eaten more 
 than usual this day, consisting of milk and figs, and drank 
 two glasses of wine, the first I have tried for a long time. 
 Thursday, 10^. Commenced eating rice and Herring; I have 
 done with wine and milk. Friday, 18^. The wind from the 
 east, pleasant weather; ate rice & mutton. I am consider- 
 ably troubled with my feet swelling; it commenced about 
 ten days since to a considerable degree; I had something 
 of it before we left Boston. Saturday, 19^. Took a little milk 
 with rice in the morning and Pork and rice for dinner with 
 some gin. My feet much swollen, very much, otherwise pretty 
 well. I am getting out of conceit of Gin. Monday, l\ st . Our 
 dear boy's birthday. Lat. 37 : 14'; Long. 37 : 05'. Ate two 
 onions, and no inconvenience came from them. Wednes- 
 day, 23 rd . I eat Pork & rice pretty well. The Captain says we 
 have very uncommon weather; the wind continues East; 
 we have not made 100 miles on our passage in twelve days. 
 Friday, 25 th . I was induced to try some baked beans; Dr. 
 James said a patient of his was able to eat them when very 
 weak; I do not find any ill effects from them. Sunday, 2~] th . 
 We are much pleased to find ourselves getting on. I fancy 
 I have picked a little too much food from the Cook. Wednes- 
 day, op th . Wind North. Spoke a brig from Baltimore. 
 
 N 
 
 OVEMBER 2 nd , Saturday. I feel sick and irritable; 
 ate very little mutton & rice and drinking nothing. 
 
io William Appleton [1816 
 
 Sunday,of d . Spoke the ship" Lancaster "from Madeira, Long. 
 15 , Lat. 36°.*52'. My feet and legs so much swelled that 
 I cannot get on any stocking or pantaloons without rip- 
 ping them open; I do not know how to account for it, I 
 cannot walk, nor hardly stand. Monday, \ th . A gale of wind 
 from the S. West. Tuesday, $ th . We laid our ship to the wind 
 all the last night. We are not willing to run, the weather 
 being thick, as we think we are nigh Cape St. Vincent. 
 Wednesday, 6 t/l . We lay in to the wind; bad weather, very 
 unpleasant. We were spoken by a Patriot Privateer. We 
 find ourselves nearly two hundred miles from the land. 
 Thursday. Wind North West; going 8 miles. Ate very little 
 and feel pretty well. Friday, 8^. Delightful day, we passed 
 Cape Spartel at midnight. Saturday, 9^. At sunrise, we were 
 abreast of Gibraltar. The appearance of the rock more than 
 equalled my expectations, Algeciras — a pretty looking 
 Town, in sight at the same time. After passing the Straits 
 the sail was delightful; the mountains very high, they have 
 a barren appearance; one, higher than the rest, hove in 
 sight when we were thirty miles from Gibraltar and con- 
 tinued in sight till we had sailed one hundred & seventy 
 miles; the top covered with snow. We sailed in sight of the 
 Coast of Spain all this day, occasionally seeing the Coast 
 of Africa. I have never felt a similar feeling that I now 
 have; the immense Mountains with their hoary tops con- 
 nected with the idea of entering the seas famed for a variety 
 of circumstances in Ancient history, and the idea of hav- 
 ing the Old World on each side, seemed to demand a rever- 
 ence not usual. Sunday^ \o th . The land at a distance of about 
 
1816] Winter in Sicily 11 
 
 forty miles has a very grand appearance; the sky very clear 
 and beautiful. Monday, \\ th . Rather cold. Sky very clear; 
 the tops of the Mountains in Europe and Africa are to be 
 seen at the same time; they have a sublime appearance. I 
 have been more interested in reading the writings of Saint 
 Paul within the two days past than ever before. I can di- 
 vest myself of the idea of their having been written a very, 
 very long time ; the situation makes them appear new to 
 me. 400 Miles from Gibraltar. I never saw the atmosphere 
 as clear; the Mountains tower almost to the Heavens; the 
 coasts of Europe and Africa are in sight; their appearance 
 connected with my feelings from this situation carries me 
 back a thousand years. Wednesday, 13^. We are out of sight 
 of the land, and nothing interesting; ate mutton and arrow- 
 root. Friday, \$ th . The sea short and unpleasant. At even- 
 ing saw the Island of Sardinia; I feel quite smart. Satur- 
 day, \& h . North Wind &cold. Sardinia in sight. This day 
 commences my thirty-first year; to look back on the last 
 year I find it checkered with much pain and pleasure. I do 
 not know anything to accuse myself of, except giving way 
 to my irritable feelings, and then by treating my friends 
 with impoliteness and servants with rudeness, but I hope 
 and trust that as I gain my health, I shall then have com- 
 mand of my feelings. Two hundred miles from Palermo. 
 Sunday, 1 j*K The day delightful. At six o'clock made the 
 Island of Sicily; we passed the high barren Mountains 
 with much rapidity; the appearance of the Hills was noble, 
 at sunset. We had an anxious evening. At 1 1 o'clock we 
 came to Anchor in the Harbour of Palermo; Our Captain 
 
12 William Appleton [1816 
 
 Blake was quite out of sorts. Monday ', 18^. Went on shore 
 to the Health Officer, and all hands at 3 o'clock p.m. Tues- 
 day , 19^. Went again to the Health Officer. Ate some figs, 
 bread & butter and do not feel well. Cold Morning; Ther. 
 58°, snow on the Mountains. 20^. Palermo, in Quarantine. 
 I ate a bunch of Grapes at 1 2 o'clock by the advice of Dr. 
 James; after dinner I drank two glasses of Grape Wine, 
 which in a few minutes brought on a severe pain. By an 
 application of flannels, hot bricks, etc., the pain was par- 
 tially removed in a few hours, and I went to sleep under 
 the effect of laudanum. Thursday, 2\ st . I am more com- 
 fortable than yesterday, but confined to my bed mostly. 
 Friday, II nd . I am very weak; the swelling in my legs has 
 almost entirely left me; I am confined to the Cabin. l^ d . 
 Quarantine. A very warm wind, south east, they say it is 
 something of the Sirocco. I am much oppressed by the heat. 
 Dr. James recommends a course of Calomel. I began tak- 
 ing \y 2 grains with Opium. Monday, 25 th . Very tired of 
 the ship. Tuesday, 2& h . I took a shower-bath for the first time 
 for several days, no ill-effects from it; I am very irritable 
 and weak. During our passage I have been in the habit of 
 taking a shower-bath every morning at four o'clock and 
 then going to bed. Saturday, op th . I took 35 drops of lau- 
 danum last night and slept well. 
 
 DECEMBER y d , Tuesday. I am not as well as yester- 
 day, I am so weak as to be hardly able to keep out 
 of bed. Wednesday, \ th . Took some laudanum in the morn- 
 ing to regulate my stomach, I have taken the oil of cin- 
 
1816] Winter in Sicily 13 
 
 namon for several days. We are happy in being told that 
 we are to leave the Ship tomorrow. Mr. & Mrs. Chabot 
 called to see us. Thursday, $ th . At y 2 past ten, after an ex- 
 amination by the Physicians and considerable demur we 
 obtained Pratique. Mr. Chabot took us to Page's Hotel. 
 (y th . Mr. Ingham called; offered his House, Carriage, etc., 
 to us. Dr. Patranagio called to see me; he seems an intel- 
 ligent man, and I think understands my complaints. He 
 says the mutton of Sicily is not good, wishes me to eat 
 beef and game and more light food such as Arrow root, 
 and drink a little coffee and try wine. Saturday, 7 th . A very 
 wet day. I went in Mr. Ingham's carriage with Mr. Por- 
 ter to look for a house. I feel better for the excursion. 
 Wednesday, 1 1A Dr. Patranagio called to see me. I am not 
 allowed to go out of my room; he says my complaints 
 are debility, and nothing else. Friday, 1 3^. Rode with Dr. 
 James and Mrs. Appleton to the Palace Favorita, which is 
 built in the Chinese style, rather finical in its appearance ; 
 it is the, or one of the country residences of the King. The 
 ride is very pleasant to it, and in the same neighbour- 
 hood are several very fine Palaces. Saturday, 1 \ th . We went 
 to La Bagaria, I was delighted beyond expression; the 
 beauty of the place and my sensations would be equally 
 impossible for me to describe. One Palace, built by a ro- 
 mantic Prince, which was surrounded by the statues of 
 monsters, was the most striking; the elegance of the apart- 
 ments and the rich manner of their being furnished would 
 lead one to suppose that Art attempted to vie with Nature, 
 which in beauty of prospect, richness of soil and high state 
 
14 William Appleton [1816 
 
 of cultivation exceeds anything I have ever seen or could 
 have imagined. The view of the surrounding country and 
 the Bay of Palermo appears to the greatest advantage from 
 the observatory of the palace. Sunday, 15^. We rode towards 
 Parco, through interesting country; the soil in a high state 
 of useful cultivation, but not highly ornamented as the 
 grounds contiguous to La Bagaria; the scenery is as ro- 
 mantic as any Lady could wish. Tuesday, 17^. Mrs. Apple- 
 ton, Mr. Porter, Doctor James & myself went to Monreale, 
 which is situated about five miles from Palermo on the 
 side of the Mountain. You ascend by a Z road made by 
 the Government. The view from this place is very exten- 
 sive and like all others that leave the valley of Palermo, 
 very beautiful. There is an extensive Convent in the place 
 kept in excellent order; the number of Priests attached 
 to it is two hundred. In the Convent is a most valuable 
 painting by a native of the village, done about one hun- 
 dred years since ; the subject is King William discovering 
 the hidden treasure of his father, which was deposited to 
 build the Church in that Town. The Picture belongs to 
 the Church which has been much celebrated for its extent 
 and for the four walls being constructed of mosaic of no 
 common kind. The Church has been nearly destroyed 
 within a few years by fire. We found the Priests disposed 
 to be attentive to us. 18^. Went to the silk manufactory 
 and were much pleased; this establishment belongs to the 
 Sicilian Government; About five hundred poor persons 
 are employed in this institution (as it was originally in- 
 tended as a hospital) under the direction of Nuns; this 
 
1816] Winter in Sicily 15 
 
 establishment is connected with the Manufactory. Thurs- 
 day, 19^. Dined at Mr. Ingham's, a handsome dinner; Mr. 
 Porter, James, Mr. & Miss Prior and an Austrian Am- 
 bassador was our party. A person unacquainted with this 
 sort of cattle might have mistaken him for a gentleman, 
 yet often he shows the cloven foot. Miss Prior seems a good 
 little woman, dejected, not handsome, about twenty-eight 
 and cut out for a spinster. Mr. Prior I like pretty well; 
 he seems kind but very narrow-minded, a small man in 
 every respect. Friday, 10 th . Mr. Hardman, Dr. James, 
 Mrs. Apple ton and myself went to see some of the prin- 
 cipal churches which for size and elegance surpassed any 
 I have ever seen. The expense of building them must have 
 been immense. The Mother Church, or Cathedral, was 
 built about eleven hundred years since. In this Church 
 are deposited the bodies of several Kings in Coffins of 
 Porphyry. Roger the first was laid there in 1137; they 
 have a very rich appearance. I was much fatigued with 
 walking through the Churches. Mrs. A. went with the 
 gentlemen to the Praetor's Hall and the Palace on the 
 Marina. Sunday, 22 nd . Pleasant, but cold. Rode with my 
 wife & Dr. James to the Prince Regent's Palace and went 
 through the gardens. The view of the City, the Ocean and 
 the valley is beautiful and more extensive than from any 
 other point I have yet been. We met the Prince who very 
 politely took off his hat to us, a compliment to us as 
 strangers. Wednesday, 25 th . Rode to the King's Palace & 
 Mr. Ingham's place; dined at Mr. Chabot's. We had a 
 pleasant party and a good dinner, but Mrs. Appleton & 
 
16 William Appleton [1816 
 
 myself were thinking too much of our friends in Boston 
 to enjoy our Christmas dinner from them. Thursday, 26^. 
 A stupid fellow by the name of Smith of Philadelphia and 
 myself rode to the top of the Mountain, about four miles 
 above Parco, from which you may have a most perfect 
 view of the whole valley from Monreale to Monte Pelle- 
 grino, the City & the Ocean, while Parco seems under your 
 feet. Friday, 17 th . We passed the evening at Mr. Chabot's, 
 where we had some fine musick by a Spanish gentleman, 
 Mrs. A. delighted. Saturday, 28^. Mr. & Mrs. Chabot ac- 
 companied us to the King's Palace to see the Representa- 
 tion of the Shepherds going to find our Saviour. The ap- 
 pearance of the Country, flocks, Peasantry, Cottages, all 
 together was well done and had a very fine effect. The work 
 was executed at Naples, at the expense of Ten Thousand 
 dollars, paid by the Prince Regent It was about 100 feet 
 long and some of the Mountains 15 to 20 feet high. It was 
 constructed mostly of Cork. Although the effect was pretty, 
 I could not think there was anything that carried solem- 
 nity, but it rather struck you as a puppet show. The figures 
 were well done and some of the faces very expressive; the 
 Costumes of the People very neatly done. Monday, op th . I 
 rode in the morning to the Ship, on a Jack. Tuesday, 31^. 
 Mrs. A. & self dined at Mr. Hardman's,a good sort of man. 
 This day ends a year in which I have suffered much from 
 ill-health and anxiety. My health has been uniformly bad, 
 my spirits much depressed, I have not been useful to my- 
 self or my friends, but troublesome to both. I often discover 
 pity in those about me, but I fear I have made no friends. 
 
1817] Winter in Sicily 17 
 
 1817 
 
 JANUARY V f , Wednesday. Palermo. This year com- 
 mences with a most delightful morning, the Air very 
 clear. I do not begin the year in very good spirits, I fear I 
 am doomed to be a poor creature. Could I be freed from 
 irritability, I should be relieved of much pain and morti- 
 fication; I suffer more in this way than from any other 
 cause. I am daily promising myself that I will improve, but 
 my success has been so little that I am almost discouraged, 
 yet I will not give up the hope of being useful to my 
 friends and having the command of my feelings. I rode this 
 morning as usual, and passed the evening at Mr. Chabot's, 
 where all the English society of the City were assembled, 
 some thirty or forty. Thursday, 2 nd . I rode to the Ship " Rox- 
 anna" and a few miles into the Country. We dined at Mr. 
 (Dates', where we met a pleasant party of fourteen persons, 
 all English. We passed the evening there, played whist, 
 returned home at eleven o'clock. I have not felt well; kept 
 up by stimulating & society; — went to bed quite ill, some 
 fever and pain in my back. Friday, y d . I do not feel as if 
 I could walk. I fear I am getting dow r n. Mr. Le Mesury 
 called to take me to drive with him in his gig. After driv- 
 ing about one mile, I was attacked with a severe pain in 
 my right kidney; by the time I got home the pain was so 
 severe that I doubted whether I could survive any con- 
 siderable time. Dr. Webber was called; he administered 
 Opium, hot brandy, an injection of Oil, Honey, salt & 
 
18 William Appleton [1817 
 
 water, I had hot bricks put to my feet and back and a 
 change of hot flannels continually till twelve o'clock when 
 I fell into a doze; while the spasms were the most severe my 
 pulse was quite stopped. I never before felt pain like what 
 I experienced this day; Dr. Webber said in my presence 
 that without relief, I could not live twenty minutes. Satur- 
 day, \ th . I found myself better than I expected, and felt 
 quite easy till two o'clock when I was attacked as the day 
 before. When the pain first commenced, I could not believe 
 that I should be able to bear the pain I was threatened 
 with; similar remedies were applied as those of yesterday, 
 and in about twelve hours I got relief; the attack was by 
 no means as severe as the first. Sunday, $ th . I remained in 
 bed this day, most of my friends called to see me. I was 
 too weak to sit up. Monday, b th . Mr. Chabot took me to 
 ride on the Marina; I was not out more than half an hour; 
 the day most delightful, the sky clear beyond comparison 
 with any I ever saw in America; the thermometer stands 
 from 58 to 62 ° Generally. Wednesday, 8^. The tops of the 
 Mountains are quite white with snow; it is a very wet, 
 uncomfortable day. Thursday, g t/l . Anniversary of our wed- 
 ding day. My spirits pretty good. Mr. & Mrs. Chabot & 
 Mr. & Mrs. Oates passed the evening with us and a few 
 Gentlemen joined us in a game at whist. Mrs. Oates was 
 delivered of a fine son after she returned home. Saturday, 
 WK I passed a bad night. My pulse from 75 to 100 in 
 the minute. I am alarmed lest I have diabetes coming on, 
 my Physicians say they fear it. Sunday, \2 th . This is a great 
 day through Italy, the birthday of Ferdinand. I feel pretty 
 
1817] Winter in Sicily 19 
 
 well, but not able to go out. There was much show at 
 Court this day; we thought our friend Porter not a little dis- 
 appointed in not having an opportunity to show his lace 
 Coat, but unfortunately he had no invitation. He expected 
 to have been taken by the hand by the Nobility immedi- 
 ately on his arrival and refused English society, on the be- 
 lief that he should find the Sicilians more pleasing, but he 
 must associate with the English or have no society here. 
 They have a bad opinion of Mercantile men and no wish 
 for their acquaintance unless they can make something by 
 them. Wednesday, \$ th . The Ship "Sally Ann" arrived 
 which gave us much pleasure. We have letters from many 
 of our dear friends, all well & give us pleasing intelligence. 
 I never experienced more anxiety than from the time of 
 her arrival till I got my letters, but was fully paid in re- 
 ceiving them. Mr. George Hinckley & Lt. Guisinger came 
 as passengers in the "Sally Ann." I find myself very weak 
 and nervous; My good Wife has a sorry time with me; I 
 hope for a change soon. Thursday, 16^. We have a violent 
 gale of wind from the West with rain; we are all confined 
 within the walls of the house. I have amused myself in 
 reading the letters and Papers rec d by the " Sally Ann." 
 Mr. & Mrs. Chabot passed the evening with us at a game 
 of whist. Saturday, 18^. Mrs. Appleton went to the Opera 
 with Mrs. Chabot. Monday, 10 th . Writing letters to go by 
 the "Roxanna." Sirocco wind; the air is very clear and 
 pleasant yet one feels languid with this wind, it affects the 
 spirits and feelings of everyone. Wednesday, 22 nd . I find 
 myself very weak, hardly able to sit up; fatigue is very 
 
20 William Appleton [1817 
 
 bad for me, it throws me on my back at once. Mrs. Apple- 
 ton accompanied Mr. & Mrs. Chabot, Mr. Porter and Dr. 
 James to the Mountain; on its top is the tomb of St. Ro- 
 salia, which they went to see. We all dined together and 
 played whist in the Evening. The " Roxanna" sailed. Sun- 
 day, 2& h . Rode to Mr. Ingham's place at Rocco. We found 
 it very pleasant and are almost determined to go there to 
 reside. We then went to the garden of the Prince of Aci, 
 the Praetor of Palermo; he was very polite in shewing us 
 his grounds and his Pheasantry which contained some hun- 
 dred Pheasants; they looked beautifully. He invited us to 
 sup at his box at the Opera, being a Masquerade evening. 
 I have not felt as well for some time, as this day. Monday, 
 2J tA . Made up our minds to remove to Rocco and are 
 engaged in making preparations for so doing. Wednesday, 
 29^. Took up our bed and Marched to Rocco, four miles 
 from Palermo, Capt. Blake accompanied us. I have great 
 faith in a change of air. I am fully persuaded that I am to 
 get well at Rocco. Friday, 31^. Dr. James sailed for Naples 
 in the "Sally Ann." 
 
 FEBRUARY I st , Saturday. Engaged in putting our 
 house in order. 'Thursday, b th . Went with Mr. Ingham 
 to the Praetor to purchase some wheat and Oil. The Prince 
 we found quite a man of business and much of the cunning 
 of the Sicilian in his countenance, yet he is a fine looking 
 man. Friday, 7 th . Went to the City as usual with Mrs. Ap- 
 pleton. Went to see the Prince of Aci who paid the Ameri- 
 cans many compliments; he is much of a democrat. I rec d 
 
1817] Winter in Sicily 21 
 
 a letter from Gen 1 Harper enclosing letters of introduc- 
 tion; I was much pleased by his attention. Tuesday, n«*. 
 The French Frigate sailed for Naples. Friday, 14A I have 
 not seen so stormy a night as the last since we have been 
 at Rocco, the north side of the house is covered with snow. 
 Dined by ourselves for the first time. Saturday, \$ th . Wrote 
 letters by the "Fanny." Sunday, \b th , Mr. & Mrs. Chabot 
 dined with us, we are much pleased with them, they are 
 well-bred people and very attentive to us. Monday, \~j th . 
 Thunder and Hail, very violent. Mrs. Appleton accom- 
 panied Mr. & Mrs. Chabot to a Ball; we dined at Mr. Cha- 
 bot's and slept at Page's. Wednesday, 19^. Dined at Mr. 
 Wood's, where we met Mr. & Mrs. Chabot and some half 
 dozen Bachelors, a pleasant party. Mr. Wood is an excel- 
 lent Scotchman. Friday, l\ st . Charming morning; Rode on 
 horseback a little way and went to the City and made calls 
 with Mrs. A. Wednesday, 26^. Went to the City, "Sally Ann" 
 arrived from Naples ; I went on board, weighed 97 lbs. 
 
 MARCH 2 nd , Sunday. Went with a large party on 
 board the "Sally Ann," where we had a splendid 
 Collation given by Capt. Blake to the Praetor; Mr. & Mrs. 
 Oates, Mr. Wood & Porter dined with us. Wednesday, $ th . 
 I feel very weak in consequence of eating too many figs. 
 Friday, 7^. Dined by ourselves, quite cosy & pleasant. Mon- 
 day, 1 o ih . Went to the City; wrote Eben * by the " Neptune " 
 for Liverpool. Tuesday, 1 \ th . I called with Mr. Wood on the 
 Baron Acita and went to the Glass factory with them. Fri- 
 
 1 Appleton. 
 
22 William Appleton [1817 
 
 day, 14A We went to the Convent of Capuchins, where 
 the bodies of Monks are preserved; some have been there 
 it is said one thousand years. Saturday, \$ th . Wet, gloomy 
 morning. Rode to the City, but did not remain long; re- 
 turned to my wife who was quite alone. \b th . We rec d 
 letters from London from Mrs. Amory, we were much 
 pleased; I never saw my good wife more delighted. Wednes- 
 day, \g t/l . I was invited to dine with the Prince of Aci, the 
 Praetor, but did not go, as the weather is not pleasant. 
 Thursday, 10 th , Baron Acita came to see us. We have not 
 had so bad weather this winter before as at Present. Fri- 
 day, 2\ st . Mrs. Appleton & myself went to the City, as 
 usual rode on the Marina. Wednesday, 26^. Raining with 
 Thunder in the morning. I went to Mr. Chabot's to say that 
 we would not accompany them to see the Bishop laid out 
 in State, as Mrs. A. had a cold. I took a ride to the Church 
 and finding the show worth looking at, I returned and 
 took Mrs. Appleton to see the dead Bishop. On our arri- 
 val at the Church we met some difficulty in getting admit- 
 tance. An Officer came out and ordered the soldiers to let 
 us pass, seeing we were strangers. On getting into the 
 Church I was struck very sensibly with the peculiar ap- 
 pearance of the objects before me. Over the door of the 
 Church (S. Francisco di Paolo) was hung a black cloth, let- 
 tered with gold giving the birth, age, etc., of the deceased 
 Bishop. The interior of the Church was completely cov- 
 ered within the Pillars with black velvet curtains trimmed 
 with gold. In front was a Mausoleum, or Temple in the 
 Grecian style; this was erected about half the height of the 
 
1817] Winter in Sicily 23 
 
 wall of the Church and splendidly ornamented with black 
 lace and gold trimmings. In the centre of this Temple was 
 placed the body of the Bishop dressed in rich robes, with 
 a white wig on his head; holding in his hand a Mitre (an 
 insignia of office) — behind the curtain stood some persons 
 occasionally waving banners of white silk over the head 
 of the corpse, the persons not being visible ; it had the ap- 
 pearance of some celestial movement as was intended it 
 should. The body was placed in an easy chair, or throne, 
 in a position that one would take who was inclined to Sleep 
 or doze. The Mausoleum was covered by a canopy run- 
 ning to a point at the top, to a height nearly as great as 
 that of the Church, made of velvet; this canopy was sur- 
 rounded by eight rows of lights so placed, so arranged, as 
 the blaze only was visible, and had the appearance of so 
 many stars surrounding the canopy; there were one hun- 
 dred and fifty of these stars. The sides and front of the 
 Church were illuminated in the same manner; there were 
 more than a thousand lamps lighted. On the sides of the 
 Church were erected stages to come forward equal with 
 the curtains or hangings, for the musicians; on both sides 
 were the musicians placed, at least two hundred in num- 
 ber, and mass saying at the different altars behind the cur- 
 tains, for the benefit of his soul. The music was solemn and 
 exquisitely fine; I think it far exceeded anything of the 
 kind I ever heard before. Next to the Mausoleum was 
 seated the person who would succeed the late Bishop, and 
 the Priests next to him, in order according to their age. 
 They were dressed in white broadcloth cloaks, elegantly 
 
24 William Appleton [1817 
 
 trimmed with lace. Their equipages were as elegant as any 
 I have seen in Palermo; they drove four black horses, each 
 with coachman and footman dressed in livery of white 
 with buff lace. The Church was much crowded, mostly 
 with Priests, dressed agreeable to their different orders, 
 some in black, some in white and some in grey. (So this 
 world goes, as Meg Merrilies says.) The scene caused very 
 solemn feeling without disgust; all was perfectly decorous 
 and nothing could be more splendid. The Bishop's name 
 was Iroda. He died very rich, they say by pilfering the 
 charities put in his hands for Charity. Why can man desire 
 pomp and show over his Clay when his character bears such 
 stains? Thursday, 27 th . Chevalier Auter, Mr. & Mrs. Chabot 
 accompanied us to the Observatory on the King's Palace 
 to see the Astronomical apparatus of Professor Piazzi who 
 is considered the first in his line in Europe. (He has dis- 
 covered two planets.) We were well paid for a tedious 
 walk; the apparatus is very extensive and elegant. One of 
 the Telescopes was made by Ramsden the present Pro- 
 fessor, the only one of the kind ever finished; it is consid- 
 ered invaluable. It is situated on the top of the dome of 
 the King's Palace (apparently), but actually on a marble 
 platform twelve feet square laid on a base of its size, built 
 of large stone in the most compact manner from the 
 ground: its height is upwards of two hundred feet. There 
 were very many things of the kind to interest any person 
 who knew their value better than myself. His library is 
 very interesting. His appearance was very peculiar and 
 interesting. After having ascended more than two hundred 
 
1817] Winter in Sicily 25 
 
 feet we were led by the Baron to a Parlour where sat the 
 Old Philosopher over a brazier of coals with all the com- 
 forts we have nearer the earth; on a waiter at the side of 
 the room sat on a table a set of China ware, a tea set, on 
 the right of which was a liqueur case; by the fire a plain 
 sofa and six or eight chairs distributed about the room; in 
 a recess, his bed with white curtains before it; adjoining 
 this parlour was his library and on the other side of a small 
 entry back of the parlour is his kitchen, where they were 
 cooking his dinner. I should say he was about sixty-five 
 years old, six feet high, dark blue eyes, light complexion, 
 very spare in his habit ; he wore a black robe, his appear- 
 ance, situation and character were striking beyond descrip- 
 tion; I was almost inclined to think him one of the inhab- 
 itants of the regions he had been so long exploring, or at 
 least he had caught their Manners. He informed us that he 
 had lived in that situation Twenty years; he spoke English 
 very well, having been a resident in London several years. 
 But, thus far, was but a small part of our feast; on being 
 mounted to this immense height we had an opportunity 
 of seeing the whole extent of grounds within the moun- 
 tains, and of looking down on the City of Palermo and the 
 gardens of the neighbourhood. The garden attached to the 
 Palace is very handsome, and the Prince Aci's appeared to 
 great advantage. It seemed as if I had been seeing this 
 place and its environs as one views a Panorama made of 
 blocks, looking at each piece separately, but they were now 
 all brought so as to be seen by a single view. I have often 
 thought since I have been in Palermo that I could never 
 
26 William Appleton [1817 
 
 see anything to delight me more than at that moment; but 
 I can truly say, that I have never been so much pleased by 
 any view as I have been this morning. Mr. & Mrs. Chabot 
 & the Baron dined with us. 
 
 APRIL 2 nd , Wednesday. Mr. Chabot & myself went and 
 JLm. engaged our passage in the Packet for Naples, to 
 sail the 15th Inst. Thursday \ of d . We went to the City early 
 to attend the ceremony usual on this day, the Commence- 
 ment of Easter. We went to the King's Palace Chapel. 
 Mrs. A. & Mr. & Mrs. Chabot went to the Hall, where 
 they saw the Prince Regent wash the feet of twelve beg- 
 gars in imitation of our Saviour washing the feet of His 
 disciples. The beggars supped the evening before with the 
 Prince, as did our Saviour with His disciples the night be- 
 fore His crucifixion. The Churches were dressed in mourn- 
 ing, the altars illuminated, the people in the streets all in 
 Black. At twelve o'clock the carriages were withdrawn 
 from the streets and not a horse was allowed in the streets 
 till Saturday (?) at 12 o'clock. We dined at Mr. Chabot's 
 & slept at Page's. §*K We were much amused at the fair 
 on the Marina; the Show consisted of a very great variety 
 of toys of a common kind. Sunday, 6 t/l . We ate a lunch at 
 Mr. Chabot's and accompanied them to the Palace of the 
 Prince of Belmonte, about two miles North East from 
 Palermo, on the side of Monte Pellegrino, abeautiful place; 
 the Palace is more genteel and comfortable than any I 
 have before seen; the grounds laid out with much good 
 taste; it was built in six years. The establishment cost 
 
1817] Winter in Sicily 27 
 
 three hundred and seventy-five thousand dollars. 8^. Suf- 
 fered considerably with my face; applied hot herbs: it is 
 much swollen. g t/l . My face confines me to the house ; we 
 applied hot baths of vinegar to it. Friday, 1 \ th . Passed a 
 most miserable night with my troublesome face, and sent 
 for dentist and physician. The dentist broke the boil and 
 I felt much easier by it. 13^. Left Rocco and took up our 
 abode at Page's, preparatory to leaving Sicily. It is not 
 without regret that I leave the retirement where I have 
 gained more in ten weeks than at any other time since I 
 have been sick. \$ th . Went to Rocco to take a final leave. 
 The Brig "Brothers" sailed for Boston; on it we sent home 
 some of our baggage. Wednesday, 16^. Went with Mr. & 
 Mrs. Chabot to the Palace of the Prince Belmonte, which 
 is more extensive than any I have seen in Palermo, and 
 some of the apartments and furniture more elegant. It is 
 built so as to form three sides of a square, and on the fourth 
 is the garden. This palace contains sixty-four rooms on a 
 floor; three stories high. The lower part is used for Carriage 
 horses, Stables, etc. The stables elegant; there are sixty 
 stalls separated by Marble Pillars which in America we 
 should think would adorn our Churches or other Publick 
 buildings. The Prince's establishment in the way of horses 
 is very great ; he keeps more than fifty. I think this Palace 
 on the three sides must show a front of six hundred feet. 
 One of the Parlours struck me as being beautiful, and ad- 
 joining it is a sleeping-room which pleased me more than 
 anything of the kind we saw, but I must try and remember 
 its appearance, as I cannot describe it. The furniture was 
 
28 William Appleton [1817 
 
 superb, the Walls were covered with sky blue satin, the 
 Chair Cushions of the same, the chairs of Ebony; the Cur- 
 tains like the satin on the walls; the room 40 by 36 feet, 
 Arched, & elegant figures overhead. There were four Ele- 
 gant Glasses, one on each side and ends of the room, the 
 Plate about 1 o feet in length, the whole ornamented with 
 a variety of ornaments, his Arms & Crest on many pieces 
 of furniture. The bedroom had all the conveniences one 
 could imagine, and I am told it is not occupied as he and 
 his lady have separate establishments, but neither lives in 
 this Palace. His income is $200,000 per Annum, but it 
 is worthy of remark that this man has been reduced to 
 nothing within a few years. His estate in Spain confiscated 
 by Jos. Bonaparte, in Naples by Murat, in Sicily by the 
 King, and he twice condemned to death, and once reprieved 
 by the influence of his friends' money when on the spot 
 of Execution. He has his estates again now. So the world 
 goes. Thursday, \*] th . Walked with my wife on the Marina, 
 took a little cold, drank too much coffee, and found my- 
 self very sick at night ; an attack of the cholera morbus. 
 Friday, i8 M . Laid in bed most of the day. Dr. Patranagio 
 came to see me twice. Sunday, 10 th . Still waiting for a fair 
 wind to sail for Naples. We went into the garden of Prince 
 Valamosa, one of the prettiest I have seen; in many re- 
 spects superior to any. It is neat beyond description 
 and the walks very handsome. We went to the Church 
 S. Francisco di Paolo, this being that Saint's day. Church is 
 dressed for illumination. We get a little tired waiting for 
 the packet. Tuesday, II nd . We are told the packet is to sail 
 
1817] Winter in Sicily 29 
 
 this evening, but no dependence can be placed on what 
 you hear in this place. I shall leave Palermo not without 
 some regret, but very little; I think the inhabitants very 
 mean & selfish and old in all sorts of iniquity, and I can 
 hardly believe a man honest that has lived long with them. 
 You see in everyone a disposition to take advantage of 
 you from the highest to the lowest. Their trade seems 
 small, and their Ideas contracted, but for beauty, the coun- 
 try cannot be exceeded. Of extravagance we see much, of 
 wretchedness the streets are crowded, and to show their 
 infamy, their Prisons are running over. When a criminal 
 is tried he has not the privilege of a juror, or of hearing 
 his trial ; he is taken up, put in prison and in due time he 
 is either waited on with a release or by the hangman; they 
 say this depends on how much money he has, but they 
 never execute anyone till his money is expended. In their 
 Courts of Law, all seems to depend on who will fee the 
 judges most, yet they pretend to say that it is dishonourable 
 to take bribes from both parties; it seems there is much 
 litigation in this place, very many lawyers fully employed 
 but badly paid; everybody works cheap for Sicilians, but 
 they expect much more from strangers. A Physician pays 
 a visit for two lires, or a first rate one four, yet they ex- 
 pect 10 or 12 from a foreigner. In a coffee shop they will 
 charge a Sicilian three grains, or J^ cent for a cup of 
 coffee, but a foreigner they manage to get about ten from, 
 by giving a larger cup, and offering him bread whether 
 he eats or not, all the same. But there is this satisfaction — 
 that they treat you with politeness, while they cheat your 
 
30 William Appleton [1817 
 
 teeth out of your head if possible. You are sure to have 
 your Pockets overhauled if you go to a public place. Ser- 
 vants all dishonest is the general opinion. 
 
s* 
 
 r~o-m. a 
 
 /v/A^ru.^ciXLi^~e. 
 
DIARY JOTTINGS: 1818-1836 
 
 1818 
 
 JANUARY, Charleston. I should not deserve the name 
 of Christian did I not feel grateful to Heaven for my 
 present blessings and past favours. Twelve months 
 since, I had little right to expect to see this day, and so 
 much health as I now enjoy I hardly dreamed of. When I 
 reflect on the past year and recollect that I have passed over 
 four thousand miles of land and as much by water without 
 accident, that I have been raised from the weakest situa- 
 tion to which the human frame is capable of being reduced 
 and recover from, I ask myself, Why is this? How can I 
 be useful to myself or my fellow creatures that it should 
 please Heaven thus to spare me? I am not able to say why 
 it is so, nor do I find that grateful heart within my bosom 
 that I should expect to find in one situated like myself. 
 I cannot say that I think my improvement in mind is to 
 be compared with that of the body. I do flatter myself that 
 I am less irritable than I was a year since, and I hope less 
 envious, but I have not had any trials of my disposition of 
 late. When I for a moment think what has passed within a 
 year my sensations are indescribable. I feel as if I had been 
 hurled through the ethereal regions from clime to clime. I 
 can hardly realize that I have been in Sicily, Italy, Switzer- 
 land, France and England, and, now, in my native Country 
 in the same year; but when I look at the year past I have 
 no doubt in concluding that it has been the most interest- 
 
32 William Appleton [1818 
 
 ing of my life thus far, and there is not much probability 
 there will be any as much so. My business concerns have 
 equalled my expectations, I am quite as well as to prop- 
 erty now as a year since; my future prospects are much 
 better, I have a prospect of health that I had not a year 
 since. I have a hope of returning soon to my dear friends, 
 I am sure I have many who are much interested for me. 
 My good Wife is happy and deservedly so; she is all that 
 any reasonable man could wish, ever finding friends and 
 so fortunate as to have no enemies. I have been better 
 satisfied with her the last year in troubles and anxieties 
 than in prosperity; she has strong powers of mind not 
 brought into action on common occasions; take her all in 
 all, her husband and friends have cause to be proud of her. 
 
 1822 
 
 MARCH 24^. I attended church at St. Paul's this 
 morning and heard an interesting sermon from Dr. 
 Jarvis on self examination. My feelings were that from 
 time to time I would follow his advice of reflecting on the 
 past transactions and endeavour to correct my faults by 
 acknowledging them to myself. 25^. Much occupied in 
 attending to get forward the Columbian Bank. Passed the 
 evening with a Whist Party at Mr. Amory's. Was struck 
 by the power the Catholick Priests have over their People. 
 Our servant Peter came to me on my return at night and 
 said he had something to communicate to me; that his 
 Priest told him that until he made known to me certain 
 
1822] Diary Jottings 33 
 
 thefts made by another servant he would not give him 
 absolution; I must acknowledge I felt very small that I 
 had not, nor no one on earth, such power to controul me 
 as this servant has; I am quite disposed to turn Catholick. 
 26^. The effect of my last night's dissipation I feel con- 
 siderably and will endeavour to avoid keeping so late 
 hours. The day is very beautiful. I have been engaged in 
 business but nothing in particular transpired to give pain 
 or pleasure. 27^. I find myself continually too much in- 
 clined to sport a little with the feelings of others, not so 
 much from bad feeling as a desire to show playfulness; 
 much inclined to severity, and sometimes without a strict 
 regard to facts. My mind is very much bent on making 
 money, more than securing temporal friends or lasting 
 peace. 29^. I dined this day with Mr. Nathan Appleton, 
 a party of twenty-two. I seldom have a pleasanter time, 
 but almost always find I have something to regret when I 
 pass the day in a large party. 
 
 APRIL 2 nd . Passed the evening in helping Mrs. N. 
 ii Appleton get her Notes prepared for her Party. y d . 
 Attended Ward Meeting. "Triton" arrived; forty-nine 
 days from Liverpool. \ th . I feel that I am quite eaten up 
 with business; while in Church, my mind with all the ex- 
 ertion I endeavoured to make, was flying from City to City, 
 from Ship to Ship and from Speculation to Speculation. 
 6 t/l . Attended the caucus for Mayor and Aldermen at the 
 Exchange. Principal speakers, John Lowell, Col. Perkins 
 and Mr. Webster. j f/l . Our Sarah Elizabeth was christened 
 
34 William Appleton [1822 
 
 with a Child of Mr. Shimmin's; the ceremony was very 
 solemn. May we be enabled to fulfil the promises then 
 made ! S th . This day we met for the purpose of choosing 
 City Officers; Mr. Otis & Quincy Candidates for Mayor; 
 no choice. 1 o th . Purchased the right of use of water at the 
 Mill dam for ten power, so called. This purchase I made 
 in consequence of Mr. Ebenezer Francis saying to me that 
 if I would go and make the purchase he could use it in 
 such a way as to make it profitable and that I might or 
 not be known to be interested in the mode he used it, and 
 that he would give me the half of the profits. I purchased 
 ten; Mr. Gray to have four. He & I each are not to pre- 
 vent the other from purchasing more of the Corporation, 
 but are not to allow them to sell any more without our 
 consent for two years. 1 I th . Mrs. N. Appleton had a large 
 tea party and very splendid it was; some two hundred to 
 250 persons; all went off well. 13^. " Champion" arrived. 
 \$ th . This day I have been very much engaged in differ- 
 ent kinds of business, and attending to the Bank Building, 
 which is a hobby with me. Sold Mr. Perkins my interest in 
 the " Rasselas " & bought his in the " Champion." 1 6 th . Called 
 on Dr. Jarvis and told him that until our Church could 
 pay their expenses without borrowing money I would give 
 nothing to missionaries. 20 /7/ . I was appointed committee 
 of finance for the Columbian Bank. My intention is to give 
 much time to the ...business, and in all transactions for the 
 institution, to pursue such a course as will bear the strict- 
 est examination. 2y d . Dined this day at Col. Apthorp's, a 
 large & pleasant Party. I find much difficulty in prevent- 
 
1822] Diary Jottings 35 
 
 ing a quarrel between Mr. P. and myself; his observations 
 are un-courteous and unjust. I am at a loss as to what course 
 to pursue. 
 
 MAY I st . This day the City Charter took effect; some 
 little parade in making the Mayor, etc. " Mercury" 
 arrived from Liverpool. \ th . I feel much indisposed from 
 dissipation, not fatigue; I must do better or get done up. 8 M . 
 Much engaged in business; the "Jasper " arr d from Liver- 
 pool. \1 th . Passed the evening at Mr. Amory's, Gen mn & 
 Mrs. Sullivan were with us. \§ th . Engaged in preparing 
 to go to New York. 16^. Left for New York: arrived 
 New London at 8 O'Clock. 17^. Left New London at 6 
 O'Clock — unpleasant from east wind, confined below. 
 i8 M . Arrived New York at 7 O'C. Attended to my busi- 
 ness; left for Philadelphia at 3 o'clock. Upset in the Stage 
 at 10 at night without injury. Arrived at Trenton at two 
 o'clock: left for Philadelphia at 6. 19^. Took passage in 
 Steamboat at six O'Clock. Arrived at 10. Attended Bishop 
 White's Church. 20^. At 2 O'Clock left in steamboat for 
 New York, slept at Spotsworth, the worst place I was ever 
 in. 1VK Arrived at 12 in New York, attended to my busi- 
 ness; dined with Mr. Lenox, went to Mr. Prince's, returned 
 at 1 1 O'Clock. 22*< Left in Steamboat at 6 O'C. — arrived 
 New Haven 2 O'Clock. 23^. Left New London at 4 
 O'Clock, arrived Boston at 9 O'C. 24A Full of Business: 
 found all well. 25^. Mr. Walker, J. G. Appleton and N. 
 Appleton dined with us. 27^. Much excitement in the 
 business world by the failure of Capt. Bush, Silas Bullard 
 
36 William Appleton [1822 
 
 and some others. 28^. Much distress for money, I am quite 
 sick of the Mercantile business, and particularly of pur- 
 chasing Notes. 29^. General Election. 30^. I find myself 
 quite fidgety. F.Welch acknowledges himself a Bankrupt. 
 I expect it will prove abad Business. 31^. At Mrs. Amory's, 
 a party of Children, very pleasant; then at Mrs. Peter 
 Parker's, where we met a small but pleasant party. 
 
 JUNE 3 r < Artillery Election, a very great assemblage 
 of people on the Common. 5^. Our mercantile com- 
 munity are so much harassed as to make me feel as if I 
 wished myself anything but a Merchant. 7 th . I am so much 
 excited by my business concerns that I have very little 
 pleasure. 8 t/l . Dined at Mr. Amory's with Mr. Gold, Mr. 
 Wm. Sullivan, Mr. Tilden, Mr. N. Appleton, very pleas- 
 ant party. Mr. Loring is preparing to go to Canada. The 
 distress among our Merchants continues; money is very 
 difficult to be obtained ; first rate notes at four months can 
 be sold at double interest. 10^. People seem to be getting 
 more quiet; the failures appear to have ceased. My Wife 
 is much troubled for a nurse; she has now in the House 
 a most infamous Huzzy. iV&. Sent to Tewksbury for a 
 Nurse. Much engaged in Business. Mr. Ludlow failed. 
 \$ th . Meeting of Committee of Bangor Bank. Madam 
 Amory very low, will not last many days. 18^. Elizabeth 
 Coffin Amory * departed for unknown regions this morn- 
 ing. Her life has been long, 82 Years. In Youth she was 
 
 1 Mrs. Thomas Amory, mother of Mrs. Appleton's step-father, Mr. Jonathan 
 Amory. 
 
1822] Diary Jottings 37 
 
 beautiful; in middle age, useful; at the close of life, beloved 
 and much respected. She was a lady of unusual politeness 
 of manners, graceful and neat in her dress and Household 
 establishment to a proverb. She leaves three sons, three 
 daughters, and about fifty Grand and Great-Grandchil- 
 dren. Mr. Bachi, an Italian, dined with us; he is a native 
 of Palermo and absconded from his native place on ac- 
 count of being concerned in a plot against the government. 
 10 th . Attended the funeral of Madam Amory. If death 
 is under any circumstance pleasant, it must be when an 
 aged Christian resigns her Soul to her Maker. The distress 
 among the mercantile community has almost sickened 
 me of business. II nd , Left to visit my good Mother; slept 
 at Chelmsford. My reflections not pleasant, I feel much 
 anxiety in going to my Mother's. 23 r < Arr^ Mount Ver- 
 non, my Mother much pleased to see me ; her health better 
 than when I last saw her. 24A Most delightful rain. Rode 
 to Groton, left my horse & Chaise, & took the Stage to 
 Concord, where I found Mrs. Amory 1 and others. Returned 
 with them to Acton, where we slept. 25^. We left Acton at 
 y 2 past seven o'clock and went to Lancaster to dine. We 
 found the ride from Groton to Lancaster very delightful — 
 Mrs. Amory rode in the Chaise with me. We found a com- 
 fortable Hotel and arr d at Worcester at evening, where we 
 slept very well accommodated. lb th . I left my friends and 
 made my way to Boston. I find it pleasant to get home 
 again and find all well. 30^. We had a sermon on the rise 
 of our Church, 2 this being the anniversary of the dedication 
 
 1 Mrs. Appleton's mother. 8 St. Paul's, afterwards the pro-Cathedral. 
 
38 William Appleton [1822 
 
 of the Church two years since, when 25 families only be- 
 longed to the Church; last year there were 80, and now 
 128. 
 
 JULY 2 nd . Rode with Mr. & Mrs. Sam* & Louisa Ap- 
 pleton to Mr. Francis', where we were much pleased 
 with their farming establishment. S t/l . Mrs. Amory's family 
 removed to the Cottage at Watertown. 9^. Mrs. Apple- 
 ton rode with me to see her Mother at her new residence. 
 1 1 M .The " Rasselas" arriv d . Col. Caldwell a passenger; he, 
 Mr. Jon a Amory & N. Amory dined with us. i6 M . Went 
 with Miss Cutler, 1 Miss Dexter and Miss Sullivan to 
 George's Island, 2 a very pleasant sail we had. lJ tA . Rode 
 to Watertown with Mrs. Appleton; Mrs. Amory we find 
 very pleasantly situated. 20^. Went to the Island to see 
 Miss Cutler, passed the Sunday there; it was very pleasant 
 although very hot in the city. 
 
 1831 
 
 DECEMBER 31". This year has been one of unpre- 
 cedented prosperity in this Country, and particularly 
 so to enterprising Merchants and Manufacturers. Well 
 managed Manufacturing establishments of Wool & Cot- 
 ton, where two-thirds of their Capital is invested in Real 
 Estate and Machinery, have earned twenty per Cent on 
 the whole Capital. The rate of Interest has been low, gen- 
 erally at five per Cent at the Banks ; at this moment they 
 
 1 Mrs. Appleton's sister. * Now occupied by Fort Warren. 
 
1832] Diary Jottings 39 
 
 get six per Cent owing to a demand from N. York. Not less 
 than eight millions of Southern paper is held in Boston. 
 
 I am not very well satisfied with myself; my prejudices 
 are very strong. I feel as if others who are in a degree de- 
 pendent on me should be governed by my feelings more 
 than I ought. I have considerable to contend with, but I 
 ought to soar above trifles. As to my dealings with others 
 I am quite satisfied with myself; I have no temptation to 
 make a hard bargain, except the pride of having done 
 better than others. I do not feel anxious to make money 
 for the sake of having it, and should as soon spend my 
 whole income as not if I could do it with a belief that it 
 would do more good than harm. 
 
 [// was here in the Diary that the sketch made by Mr, Appleton of his 
 early life was written .] 
 
 1832 
 
 1AM much gratified by the very numerous calls from 
 my friends during my indisposition, which has been 
 rather protracted; for three months I have not been able 
 to attend much to business or to go to Church. I am now 
 about making arrangements to go to Charleston in the Ship 
 "Dover." I expect to be materially benefited by the Voyage 
 & journey home. My complaint is from having the influ- 
 enza which produced a Cough and after several colds I 
 find I cannot go into the cold air without suffering. I be- 
 lieve my Lungs free from disease and as strong as any part 
 
40 William Appleton [1832 
 
 of me; but should my expectations not be realized I have 
 made all the arrangements as to property that I think are 
 necessary. 
 
 In March I sailed for Charleston and returned in June. 
 The object for which I went, accomplished, my health 
 being nearly as good as usual. The summer was mostly 
 passed at Nahant, a place I think very conducive to my 
 health, but circumstances, not entirely within my controul, 
 led me to sell the Cottage 1 I have occupied with much 
 pleasure and benefit. We experienced considerable excite- 
 ment in apprehension from Cholera, but Boston has suf- 
 fered very little from it. On my return from the South, 
 under the idea that property generally was rather likely to 
 decline, I sold off my Man u & Rail Road Stocks to a com- 
 fortable amount, which proved a good calculation. 
 
 JANUARY i". At this time everything is very dull. 
 We are apprehending a destruction of the Protecting 
 system to quiet South Carolina Nullification. I have full 
 confidence in our Lowell Stocks, yet I am not willing to 
 increase my interest materially in them, as I am not anx- 
 ious to gain Property, but very unwilling to lessen what 
 I possess. I have lately been appointed President of the 
 United States Bank in this City, which will take up some 
 of my time and prevent my doing so much business as I 
 otherwise might. My intention is to keep my affairs within 
 
 1 Still standing, on Swallow's Cave Road. 
 
l %33~] Diary Jottings 41 
 
 compass, not to owe much money. I do not believe they 
 will alter the Tariff this year, and if they do, it will not 
 injure the Cotton establishments at Lowell. The Prints it 
 will destroy and the woolens. Nullification will come to 
 nothing, yet they may possibly make a little fight in South 
 Carolina, but I much doubt it, as the Pres l 's Proclamation 
 will get there in time, I fancy, to give them a chance to 
 retreat with honour. They are a fine set of fellows and will 
 not disgrace themselves. 
 
 FEBRUARY 10^. Our Mrs. Nathan Appleton 1 died. 
 She was a woman of uncommon talents, with more ac- 
 complishments than most ladies possess, much celebrated 
 for her beauty; possessed the kindest feelings, willing to 
 make every sacrifice to promote the comfort of others; 
 with qualifications that ought to have made her the hap- 
 piest among the happy, yet her standard appeared, un- 
 fortunately, too high; she could not do as much for her 
 friends as she wished; she did not make the most of the 
 luxuries that surrounded her, but rather felt or appeared 
 as if something was wanting which made her less happy 
 and useful. But she died in full (as I believe well founded) 
 hope that she had an interest in Him who died to save 
 repented sinners. Her age was forty-six in November last. 
 
 APRIL. Eben Appleton, my much esteemed Cousin, 
 Jl\. died. He was one of the most popular men I ever 
 knew; he was deserving of the goodwill of his friends and 
 
 1 Mother of Mrs. Henry W. Longfellow and Mr. Tom Appleton. 
 
42 William Appleton [!833 
 
 acquaintances; his talents were far above a common order; 
 he was rather playful than otherwise, better calculated for 
 a literary life than that of a Merchant. His age was forty- 
 eight. 
 
 j 
 
 ULY 27^. We have an addition to our family of a fine 
 boy; we call him Charles Hook. 1 
 
 1834 
 
 JANUARY. The last has been a year of general pros- 
 perity to our Merchants, Manufacturers and the Coun- 
 try generally. In the latter part of the year our affairs 
 have been deranged by an unnecessary war between the 
 Government and the United States Banks. It will end with- 
 out very much harm. The Country is Rich and, notwith- 
 standing we have done too much business, we can bear the 
 checks which will grow out of the reduction of the debt 
 due the U. S. Banks. I think the Bank will be compelled 
 to close its concerns; I think, like most great moneyed 
 Institutions, the Managers feel their power more than they 
 should, or they think they have more power than they 
 have. The business of this Branch is conducted on inde- 
 pendent, fair principles, and I trust our direction would 
 submit to no other. Property has not fallen in consequence 
 of the scarcity of money, nor have there been any failures. 
 
 1 The 1 oth and last child. Names of children in order of birth : William Sullivan ; 
 James Amory; Mary Ann; Sarah Elizabeth; Francis Henry; Joseph Warren, 
 changed to William; Edward, died young; Harriett Cutler; Hetty Sullivan; 
 Charles Hook. 
 
1834] Diary Jottings 43 
 
 Yet there must be many; among the good business there 
 has been bad, and many persons are extended, who have 
 but small property. As to my property, I have not made 
 up my Books; my impression is that on a fair valuation I 
 have fifty thousand dollars more than a year since. I owe 
 more money than I intended to at the beginning of the 
 year, and from present appearances I may do considerable 
 business the year to come. I think money will be made 
 on Cotton. I should extend myself more in shipments but 
 I am afraid of getting too much connected with Foreign 
 Houses. My health has been very good. I ride every morn- 
 ing from y 2 past 6 to y 2 past 7 o'clock. I drink no wine; 
 I find an important benefit from giving it up. 
 
 MARCH. I have just returned from Philadelphia, 
 where I went by the request of the Directors of the 
 U. S. Bank to get additional means for the Office in this 
 place. My business was to state to the Managers of the 
 Bank that I would not hold the situation I had unless we 
 had controul of the business in this city, and a Capital not 
 to be withdrawn; in short, that I would not be the tool of 
 any set of men. I found them, Messrs. Biddle & Jaudon, 
 quite prepared to meet my views; I doubt not they were 
 fully apprised of my intentions, as I had communicated 
 them to Mr. Frothingham but to no other person. I got 
 the funds required and a promise that I might do anything 
 I pleased in the relation to the Office in Boston. Sunday, 
 16^. I am going tomorrow with W m to see my good 
 Mother who I apprehend will not live long. Sunday, 2y d . 
 
44 William Appleton [^34 
 
 We had a very pleasant journey to Mount Vernon. I 
 found my dear Mother much better than I feared and I 
 trust she may yet live years; her example to her Children, 
 for us, as a Christian should be invaluable. 
 
 JUNE 8 /A . I fell from my Horse and broke my collar 
 bone which confined me to the house some days, and 
 I was weeks without my usual exercise. By the advice of 
 Dr. Warren I changed my diet to vegetables, which I 
 found beneficial. 
 
 JULY 25^. Returned yesterday from a pleasant excur- 
 sion to the White Mountains with Dr., Mrs., & Miss 
 Warren, Mrs. Grant, Miss Scollay and my son Amory. 
 
 1835 
 
 JANUARY. The year just closed has been an eventful 
 one to the Mercantile community, much fluctuation 
 took place in consequence of the difficulty between the 
 Government and the Banks of the United States. 
 
 Our Country is prosperous beyond all calculation, yet 
 the traders have many of them lost money the past year. 
 The China Voyages have been very bad; Coffee has been 
 a very losing article; Hides & Sugar from South America 
 have cost more than they would sell for in Europe. The 
 Calcutta business has been bad. Indigo sold for a loss of 
 fifty to a hundred dollars a case. Cotton is worth four cents 
 more per lb. than a year since; I think the price now too 
 
1836] Diary Jottings 45 
 
 high, being from fifteen to seventeen cents. There may be 
 much speculation in the article through the year, but I 
 think it a dangerous article to purchase at present prices. 
 Manufacturing business has been good, the profits on good 
 establishments equal to about double interest. 
 
 My business has been extensive and the results good 
 compared with my neighbours: my property I fancy is 
 worth twenty-five to thirty thousand dollars more than a 
 year since. My family and incidental expenses amount to 
 about fifteen thousand dollars. I want no man's money, but 
 it gives me an unpleasant sensation to have others more 
 successful than myself. These are feelings I am ashamed 
 of and I endeavour to correct them. It is mean and unac- 
 countable that our desire for property or power is so great, 
 when we reflect on the entire uselessness of it for the little 
 time which we can remain with it. 
 
 1836 
 
 JANUARY I st . The year past has been one of unpar- 
 alleled prosperity. Almost every description of property 
 has advanced in price, and the produce of our Country has 
 been high in foreign markets, which has enabled us to 
 pay for the large amount of specie imported the preced- 
 ing year. At present, money is worth from eight to ten per 
 cent for business paper. My belief is that the coming year 
 will be less prosperous than usual. I do not anticipate any 
 great disaster, yet I feel that many kinds of goods are high 
 and that we shall have some failures growing out of the 
 
46 William Appleton [1836 
 
 extensive speculations of the last year; I allude to eastern 
 lands and fancy Stocks. Our commerce is extended very 
 much and the importations from China & other places 
 beyond the Cape are likely to be greater than the usual 
 consumption, yet I do not expect very heavy losses. My 
 business has been more extensive than I intended at the 
 commencement of the year, and more profitable than in 
 any former year; I suppose my property worth a Hundred 
 thousand dollars more than at the commencement. We 
 have been in our family particularly Blessed with health, 
 and if we have not been happy it has been our own fault. 
 We have had some anxiety on account of Amory's health 
 in the early part of the year, but for the last few months he 
 has been quite well and in his habits everything we could 
 wish. Our dear William we were quite afraid was losing 
 his health which led to his taking a voyage to Europe 
 with Mr. Nathan Appleton's family. His sufferings by the 
 Neurosis endeared him to us, and his good conduct has 
 made him a great favourite with all his acj^u^mtances. 
 We shall expect to hear of the arrival of the "Francis De- 
 pau," in which he sailed, soon. At the commencement of 
 the past year I made to myself promises of improvement. 
 My transactions with my fellow beings I am satisfied with, 
 but by no means so with myself to my Maker. My mind 
 is much, quite too much, engrossed in business, not so 
 much for the love of money as an unaccountable desire for 
 business success. I fear it will be my ruin. I try to devote 
 some time everyday to the all important subject, my future 
 existence, but when I get into the vortex of business I find 
 
1836] Diary Jottings 47 
 
 my mind so much engrossed that I can hardly free it when 
 I return to my family or even on the Sabbath. If I had 
 more communication with Religious people I think it 
 would be better for me. My views of Religion are differ- 
 ent from those of all my acquaintances on some points. 
 
 I believe it was intended by our Maker that we should 
 be progressive beings, use and enjoy all He gave us, and 
 our happiness would increase daily; that what promotes 
 the happiness of mankind promotes our individual good. 
 I believe the great stumbling block is selfishness, that in- 
 stead of endeavouring to promote the happiness of our 
 fellow creatures we are absorbed in the immediate gratifi- 
 cation of our own passions; I pray Almighty God that the 
 ensuing year I may live more in accordance with my early 
 education than heretofore. 
 
 DECEMBER. The first half of the present year passed 
 without any unusual solicitude. The health of the 
 different members of our family was good. Our accounts 
 from William and those who were with him led us to be- 
 lieve his strength was returning; we indulged fond hopes 
 that he would return to us in the Autumn in good health. 
 In August I received a letter from my good friend Mr. 
 Nathan Appleton stating that W m had not gained strength 
 as he expected and recommended his passing another win- 
 ter in Europe. These accounts did not alarm us much, but 
 in a very few days we received the sad tidings that they 
 were induced to consult a Physician in Florence who gave 
 a very alarming statement of his case. My first impression 
 
48 William Appleton [1836 
 
 was to go to him, but after consulting with my friends I 
 concluded to have Amory go immediately to meet his 
 brother, with the hope he would be able to return to us, 
 and Mr. E d Austin kindly offered to accompany him; 
 they left in the next Packet after we got the alarming 
 letters; they had been gone but a short time till we re- 
 ceived letters which compelled us to make up our minds 
 we should see him no more. He died at Schaffhausen in 
 Switzerland on the 24th August, less than twenty days 
 after we heard of his severe indisposition. Amory returned 
 to us in good health in the early part of November. I could 
 not give an idea of the extreme suffering I endured dur- 
 ing the space from hearing of his distressing health till we 
 heard of the closing scene ; it was such as I think I could 
 not have long endured. When the sad tidings came of his 
 death, the shock was great, but the suffering less than I 
 anticipated; it was a relief from suspense, perhaps the most 
 trying suffering. My health was suffering and for some 
 weeks I was confined to the house. Mrs. Appleton felt our 
 loss much, very much. Our friends' sympathy was great 
 and did much to alleviate our sorrow. I now feel that God 
 has taken him to Himself. I think of him with the greatest 
 pleasure; the thousand incidents in his short life appear 
 to me in the most delightful aspect; his imperfections have 
 disappeared. I can truly say with Mr. Nathan Appleton 
 who was with him, "He had less earthly dross than any 
 being I ever knew; He won the hearts of all that knew him, 
 and those who saw him during his last days spoke of him 
 in the most exalted terms." Mary Appleton, in a letter 
 
1836J Diary Jottings 49 
 
 to Mrs. Sam 1 Appleton, says: "I cannot help thinking 
 of him a perfect Angel, such a lovely disposition, such a 
 Heavenly expression, so much consulting the feelings of 
 other People, so much patience without irritations; every- 
 body says — 'What an angelic face.'" Mr. Jewett, writing 
 from London of the characters of the party to a friend, 
 says : " Of M r . William I now pause ; I cannot well express 
 my love and regard for that young gentleman; a love and 
 regard which I fear will be soon saddened & I put him [his 
 character] in the most elevated place." The recollections 
 of his pious resignation at the last hour are more valuable 
 to me than anything in this world,, He is gone; we have 
 much left to be grateful to kind Heaven for, many prom- 
 ising Children and other blessings, more than falls to the 
 lot of almost any family within my knowledge. 
 
 I have been a long time endeavouring to make up my 
 mind that it is my duty to join the Holy Communion. I 
 have had several conversations on the subject with Mr. 
 Stone, Dr. Warren, Mr. S. Hubbard, and corresponded 
 with my good friend Mr. Potter; they all incline me to 
 think it is my duty to make a public profession of Re- 
 ligion, but I have doubts. I feel that I am very sinful, full 
 of the love of this world, that it absorbs my thoughts far 
 beyond what I am fully sensible it should. I feel the value 
 of religion and desire my children should be religious 
 more than everything else. 
 
 In the way of business I have been as successful as in 
 almost any year of my life. My property is worth sixty 
 to seventy thousand dollars more than at the commence- 
 
50 William Appleton [^36 
 
 ment of the year, after deducting twenty to thirty thou- 
 sand dollars losses on Flaxseed and Sugar. Money has 
 been in demand through the year and for the last few 
 months unprecedentedly so, worth two per cent per month 
 for six months; notes of the first class. Real estate, fancy 
 Stocks, and all kinds of property that the value is not regu- 
 lated by foreign markets are extremely high. Labour is far 
 beyond the price of any former period; journeymen Me- 
 chanics get from two to three dollars a day and the girls in 
 the Factories at Lowell get two dollars and a half a week 
 besides their board. 
 
 The trade of the last year has been generally consid- 
 ered good; but this is estimating the stocks on hand at 
 high prices. The importations of Tea have been a losing 
 business and sugars the latter part of the year very bad; 
 the loss on sugars from Cuba to St. Petersburgh have been 
 enormous, in some instances twenty-five dollars a Box. 
 Manufacturing has been generally good, the Cotton very 
 good, and produced fully double interest on the Capital 
 employed. Very few failures; persons over trading have 
 retained their credit and preferred holding their goods for 
 high prices and paying extravagant rates for the use of 
 money; but a reckoning day must come, and as I think, 
 before the ensuing year closes. 
 
 During the last session of the last Congress an inten- 
 tion was shown on the part of the anti-tariff party to re- 
 duce the duties on imports. Under the belief that the pres- 
 ent Congress would modify the tariff, or at least attempt 
 it, I sold in the course of the last summer a large part of 
 
1836] Diary Jottings 51 
 
 my Manufacturing stocks, with an intention to purchase 
 when the prices should get down, but from present ap- 
 pearances nothing of importance will be done. 
 
THE DIARY OF 1837-1862 
 1837 
 
 FEBRUARY. There has been quite a change in the 
 money market the last month, and prices of stocks 
 have improved. James S. Amory has lately engaged 
 himself to Miss Greene, an excellent arrangement for both; 
 she is said to be a fine Girl and he is a good fellow; she has 
 money and he will not spend it improperly; but he never 
 did nor will he ever make any money. He has now some 
 twenty thousand dollars rec d from his late firm in Phila d , 
 but he did very little to make it, and my advice to him 
 % is to have nothing to do with business in the future. Jona- 
 than has just commenced with twenty-five thousand dollars, 
 furnished him by Mr. Austin, with a Mr. Leeds who is well 
 spoken of, but I have not confidence in his success; he has 
 no business talent, and if Leeds is what they say of him 
 he will not long remain with him; my fear is they will be 
 led into an extensive business and fail; Dr. Austin's money 
 lost, and we have Jonathan & his family to take care of. 
 
 MARCH. Easter Sunday. For the first time I joined 
 in partaking of the Holy Communion. It was a 
 great effort for me to make up my mind whether it was 
 my duty so to do, having my mind, as it is, so much en- 
 grossed in the pursuit of the things of this world. 29^. 
 Went to New York, where I found a bad state of things ; 
 money extremely scarce ; Bills in London twelve and a 
 
1837] Diary 53 
 
 half per Cent, while gold or silver might be shipped at 
 a profit of two per cent. The U. S. Bank and some other 
 Banks are sending out Bonds payable in London to re- 
 lieve the American Merchants in London. I fear it will not 
 answer the purpose. I pressed Mr. Biddle to send some 
 specie with the Bonds, but the truth is they dare not part 
 with it. There was a day the present week which looked 
 as if the Merchants would stop payment in a body, but 
 they got over the Panic, and will now fail a few a day 
 until a large number have gone. The trouble has not com- 
 menced in Boston or Phil d ,but must extend to both Cities; 
 we shall have the most trying spring and summer known 
 by the present generation of traders. Merchandise of all 
 kinds, Stocks & Land must come down in such a degree 
 as to cause every man much extended to fail, and a man 
 worth one Hundred thousand dollars and owes three will 
 be fortunate if he pays his debts. 
 
 APRIL 9^, Sunday. We Rec d such bad accounts from 
 Ijl New York as induced me to go there to look after 
 Messrs. Paige & Co.'s business, and to ascertain if the 
 Banks would probably continue to pay specie. I found 
 a worse state of things than when I left some ten days 
 since ; an entire want of confidence, paper could not be 
 negotiated in Wall Street in the usual way; persons who 
 were in the habit of taking notes preferred letting their 
 money remain in the Banks to taking paper, not knowing 
 what would be the currency when the Notes became due. 
 The United States Banks agreed to issue Post Notes, pay- 
 
54 William Appleton [1837 
 
 able at a future day, say in five months. It takes notes pay- 
 able in New York in four months, charging one per cent 
 exchange, and appears likely to restore confidence, so far 
 as to bring out the money lying in the Banks on deposit. 
 My belief is that things will be easier and we have seen 
 the worst of the storm if the London Houses do not fail. 
 l$*K Returned to Boston; find things comparatively easy 
 and quiet, but we must have trouble; the gale commenced 
 at the south and has been passing to the north, and we 
 cannot escape it. 29^. Within the space of the week there 
 have been a large number of heavy failures in this place 
 — Whitwell Bond & Co., Livermore & Kendall, Grant & 
 Seaver, Stone, Seaver & Bush are among the most promi- 
 nent. It is said they will pay their debts, but my belief is 
 that they will not on an average pay fifty cents on the dol- 
 lar. I fancy there will be more failures before July. Cot- 
 ton will not go below last prices in New Orleans, say 7 
 to 14 Cents lb., I think; but my opinion is not worth writ- 
 ing; I have no confidence in it. No one can tell what will 
 come out of the present state of things. 
 
 MAY $ th . Attended a meeting of large Stockholders 
 of the Lawrence Mills, called as I think very inju- 
 diciously, to take measures to provide for the payment of 
 their Acceptances for Cotton. I must confess to myself 
 what I would not speak to anyone, there must be a gen- 
 eral suspension, unless relief comes from some quarters I 
 cannot anticipate. Men's property is getting down so fast 
 nobody will long be able to pay their debts ; U. S. Bank 
 
1837] Diary 55 
 
 $97; N. Y. State Bank #71 from $ 120 ; others in the same 
 rate. Worcester railroad #73, Providence $88 ; Merrimac 
 Manufacturing stock $950, and three months ago same 
 $1350. This state of things cannot continue. 9^. I have 
 been most of the day engaged in looking into the Affairs 
 of Mr. T. I find he has by his Statement more than twelve 
 Hundred Thousand dollars of property. Owes about three 
 hundred & seventy-five. I am doubtful after looking into 
 the business if he can get out and pay his debts as they 
 come due. He offered me fifty thousand dollars to carry 
 him through, but I cannot connect my name with his ; I 
 shall do all I can for him, but my impression is not favour- 
 able to his getting on without assigning his property. 1 I th . 
 We have accounts from New York of the suspension of 
 specie payments and our Banks have this evening come 
 to the conclusion to suspend likewise. This is a measure 
 most afflicting to me, mortifying in the extreme, but it is 
 absolutely necessary for the protection of ourselves ; no 
 Merchant who is doing business beyond his capital could 
 have met his payments ; in fact, many of our Banks could 
 not have met their bills. 13^. The last evening a meeting 
 of Gen mn , a committee Appointed by the Banks, met at 
 my House and agreed upon a report made this day. The 
 report was drawn by Mr. Hubbard on my plan; in fact 
 the report I consider mine in Mr. Hubbard's language. I 
 think it will prevent the over issues by the Banks for a 
 time. 18^. Left with Mrs. Appleton, Miss Amory, James 
 S. Amory, Mary Ann, Sarah and Harriet 1 on an excur- 
 
 1 His three daughters. 
 
56 William Appleton [^37 
 
 sion for New York & PhiK We passed two days in New 
 York. In Phil a there appears to be a feeling that the Gov- 
 ernment of the U. S. must use the present Banks to. get 
 things in a proper state, but they are mistaken; the pres- 
 ent party will never submit to such humiliation. We re- 
 turned to Boston, being absent about ten days ; had a pleas- 
 ant journey; found all well. After much anxiety and various 
 discussions Mr. T. put all his property into my hands for 
 the benefit of his creditors. Mr. G. W. Lyman is nominally 
 associated with me. My determination is to use my best 
 possible exertions for the benefit of all interested; in nowise 
 to commit myself in a pecuniary point or to purchase any 
 part of the property I have had placed in my hands. We 
 are all anxious to know the fate of the London Banking 
 Houses; most persons suppose they will all fail and the 
 Bank of England stop specie payment. My belief is that 
 the Banks will not get into difficulty and that we much 
 overrate the losses that will be sustained by the London 
 Houses in the American trade. My belief is that we have 
 seen the worst of it for the present. 
 
 JUNE 13^. Rec d letters from Mr. N. Appleton to the 
 13th May from London; he appears encouraged as to 
 the American Houses being sustained. I cannot think they 
 will get on after hearing from this side of the suspension 
 of specie payments. My expectation is that they will think 
 that Brother Jonathan intends cheating them out of all 
 their debts and they will cut them all adrift. Possibly the 
 Bank of England may feel compelled to keep them along. 
 
1837] Diary 57 
 
 But it is more likely we hear of many failures in Liver- 
 pool and other places in England when we get news a few 
 days later from England. Went to visit my mother the first 
 of the week. I found her very well, full of spirits and her 
 mind bright; she reads much, two or three hours in an even- 
 ing; able to ride and drive the horse attached to her chaise; 
 she takes fully four pounds of Opium in a year; the quan- 
 tity she increases regularly; she has taken it for more than 
 twenty years without apparent bad effects; she began with 
 a small quantity for diarrhea; she has been a feeble woman 
 for more than fifty years; now eighty-one, and has as much 
 health as she has had during my recollections. 20^. Amory 
 left this day with Mr. Oxnard for New York. I am very 
 happy in viewing the character of this son; He fills the 
 place of dear William with me to an extent beyond what 
 I could have imagined ; I think him as pure a minded lad 
 as I ever knew, and he has more real piety than any young 
 man of his age that has ever come to my knowledge. 
 
 SEPTEMBER. With Franklin Dexter I took a jour- 
 ney to Pittsfield, Albany & New York. When we met 
 Mr. Nathan Appleton & family, returning from their tour 
 to Europe, I made up my mind not to make them unhappy 
 by showing my feelings. It was painful to meet them who 
 had accompanied my dear William on his last journey. 
 My friends returned in excellent health and spirits and 
 I trust will be contented with their much to be envied 
 home. 
 
58 William Appleton [1837 
 
 OCTOBER. I rec d a most interesting letter from my 
 friend Cabot, giving an account of his visit to the 
 grave of our dear William. His account of the place, the 
 information he picked up at Schaffhausen, etc., much inter- 
 ested me. 
 
 NOVEMBER 1". Went to New York to accompany 
 our eldest daughter to pass a few months under the 
 care of Mrs. & Miss Inglis. It was not a favourite plan 
 of mine, yet I think on the whole she will be benefited by 
 going from home ; she has the best of feelings with fair 
 understanding. 27 th . James S. Amory was married to Miss 
 Mary Greene; she appears a fine woman, and their chances 
 of happiness appear good. 
 
 DECEMBER 2?K Went to visit my Mother, now 
 almost eighty-two years old. I found her enjoying as 
 much health as I almost ever knew her with; her senses as 
 bright as in youth almost ; she reads much and converses 
 with fluency and judgment; she hears quickly and is much 
 interested in the future welfare of her Children. 31^. This 
 day ends the year. I feel that I have more to be grateful for 
 than almost any person. My family have health and what 
 is all important to our happiness so far as we know, — 
 good habits. Amory is a great treasure to me, he is my com- 
 panion and I feel that he makes me better, he reads and 
 says his prayers with me night and morning, and I feel as 
 if there was nothing he would wish to conceal from me. 
 
1838] Diary 59 
 
 Our daughters are all we could reasonably wish and the 
 younger Children all we can expect. The last year has 
 been one of change and disaster to the commercial world, 
 such as has not been known during the present generation, 
 but things are getting in a more limited & better state; 
 our debts in Europe are in the way of being paid and ere 
 long I trust business will get in its usual channels. For 
 myself I have been very fortunate, I do not know that I 
 have lost anything by bad debts directly. I have on hand 
 a large Amount of Merchandise and some considerable 
 adventures abroad. My present belief is that the voyages 
 now under way will be profitable, in fact, business will be 
 good, that Stocks will advance, but I do not intend to ex- 
 tend myself, and never again on the end of the year to owe 
 $500,000; more than three of which is in Notes. 
 
 1838 
 
 JANUARY. I commenced the present year with more 
 than usual solicitude owing to the extent of my en- 
 gagements and the unsettled state of the currency. My be- 
 lief is that we shall soon pay our debts abroad and we shall 
 be in a situation to return to specie payments, or ought 
 to be in such a state, but there is an unwillingness on the 
 part of many of our men of business to meet the crisis, and 
 some of our Banks are managed by persons largely in- 
 debted to them. I hardly doubt they are able to meet all 
 their engagements, yet they must have much paper that 
 cannot be collected, and we must have some failures among 
 
60 William Appleton [1838 
 
 the speculators who have got their funds from the Banks, 
 where they are directors. 
 
 FEBRUARY 9^. Went with Mr. Paige to New York 
 to endeavour to assist him in getting some money on 
 the Grand Island Bonds. Sunday I dined with Mr. Jona- 
 than Amory ; Mary Ann passed Sunday with them, she 
 looks very well; am quite delighted with her. 16^. Arrived 
 in Boston the afternoon; found my dear pet Charles quite 
 ill, but not very sick as I think. 22«< Charles quite ill and 
 I fear may not recover; he has a lung fever & pleurisy. 
 Dr. Jackson attends on him & Mason Warren is all atten- 
 tion to him. 25^. Master Charles much better and I trust 
 has turned a favourable corner; the poor little fellow has 
 suffered much pain. 
 
 MARCH I st . There has been much excitement 
 among the small traders owing to the curtailment 
 of the Banks ; there appears to me now there will be no 
 difficulty in the Banks resuming payment in May. We 
 shall have a large amount of Specie from England in that 
 month which will put all right again and before Sept. we 
 shall be wondering why we were so much depressed; things 
 will get back to former state and all will be well till we 
 get in debt again in Europe. 8^. J. Ingersoll Bowditch 
 called on me this morning and said his father, Dr. Nath 1 
 Bowditch, would like to have me call and see him, which 
 I was most happy to do. He is quite sensible that he 
 is about to close his earthly existence. He said that he was 
 
1838] Diary 61 
 
 anxious to see me; that he felt a strong interest in me 
 as he had for many years, as he had openly expressed his 
 confidence in me, and my ability & usefulness. He said: 
 " At one time when speaking to you my feelings, you let 
 slip from your lips that I flattered you ; I tell you as a 
 dying man I never said to you a word that I did not feel, 
 and I now tell you that you have done as much for the 
 City of Boston as any man in it; your word passes as a war- 
 rant, and no person has, nor deserves, more the respect of 
 the Community." He advised me to continue in business 
 while I had the health & capacity so to do ; not risking so 
 much in any one object as to affect my happiness should 
 it prove unsuccessful. I told him I considered the oppor- 
 tunity I had of his society was such as I ought to be grate- 
 ful for, that it was impossible for any person to be as much 
 with him as I had been for the last twelve years without 
 improving. Sunday evening, \\ th . I have not for some weeks 
 been in a happy state of mind. I have felt my passions were 
 not subdued, my feelings toward my fellow beings far from 
 what I knew they should be and I doubted whether I ought 
 to go to the communion table. I did not know what to do; 
 my anxiety was very great. As is our custom, Amory was 
 reading one of Jay's lessons for the evening, the text was 
 the request of the Jailor to St. Paul, " What shall I do 
 to be saved 4 ?" The Answer, "Believe in the Lord Jesus 
 Christ," came over me with an effect that I could not de- 
 scribe if I were to attempt it. I dreamed of it through the 
 following night, it has hardly been out of my mind since. 
 It has dispersed the cloud that surrounded my mind for 
 
62 William Appleton [1838 
 
 the time. God grant that it may so continue ! I do not think 
 myself superstitious, nor do I mean to convey the idea of 
 any special Providence attending the circumstance, but to 
 show how much a passage in the Holy Writ may affect 
 us at one time & pass unnoticed hundreds of Others. My 
 belief is that a Christian often perplexes himself with un- 
 necessary doubts and fears from trying to understand mys- 
 teries which were not intended for us to know; that we 
 should endeavour to enjoy religion in its simplicity. 14A 
 Went to New York in company with the Earl of Gosford, 
 late Governor of Canada, a very Gentlemanly, good natured 
 Irishman. \"j th . Returned from New York & found my 
 family all well, but my good friend Dr. Nath 1 Bowditch 
 gone, he died on the 16th. I most sincerely regret his death, 
 he was one of the most valuable men in society. His loss to 
 me is very great, his counsel was valuable and no one could 
 be intimate with him but that improvement would follow. 
 He was more strict in his communication than any man I 
 ever knew. He would never, if applied to for a loan, put 
 off the applicant by saying it was not convenient unless 
 that was really the case; if he did not like the security he 
 would say so. If he did not like a man, from feeling he could 
 not fully depend on him, the person must be much blinded 
 if he did not discover his feelings. He died at the age of 
 sixty-five. The early part of his life was passed, after an 
 apprenticeship in a Store, in Voyages to India, most of the 
 time as a Master of a Vessel, and then became the Presi- 
 dent of an Insurance office in Salem. He removed to Boston 
 and was made President of a Marine Insurance office, in 
 
1838] Diary 63 
 
 which I was a director, & Actuary of the Massachusetts 
 Hospital Life Ins. Company; the latter situation he held 
 till his death. During his residence in this City I was very 
 intimate with him; he placed great confidence in me, and 
 consulted me on all important investments. I trust the pre- 
 cepts & example of this good and great man will never be 
 forgotten by me. 
 
 A PRIL 8^, Sunday. It is about a year since I first went 
 jLjL. to the Communion; I feel satisfied that I did right 
 in so doing; I have through life thus far always had a great 
 respect for religion & for many years felt the sinfulness 
 of my nature. I went this day with my dear Amory & was 
 confirmed by Bishop Griswold; this I did in part as an ex- 
 ample to my children, at the same time feeling the addi- 
 tional pledge was my duty. g t/l . Mrs. Appletonleft with me 
 for New York, where we passed a few days; our daughter 
 Mary Ann returned with us to Boston, having been at 
 Mrs. Inglis' school for about six months; her health is good 
 and she is much improved, we think, by exercise & being 
 in the open air. 
 
 JUNE 20 th . Removed to Brookline, having put the 
 House I purchased from Mr. Whitmarsh in order, 
 being the place formerly occupied by Mr. S. Higginson. 
 
 JULY if. Amory left us in the Ship " Eb n Preble" for 
 New York, she having just arrived from Canton, G. W. 
 Minot Supercargo. \ th . Mr. N. Appleton, family & Mr. 
 
64 William Appleton [1838 
 
 & Mrs. Sam'l Appleton dined with us. A most delightful 
 
 season. 
 
 A U GUST. Dr. Warren and family have returned from 
 jl\. Europe. We arranged for him to take the House we 
 now live in, and I am to build on the south part of the lot. 
 
 DECEMBER 31". More than half a century have I 
 lived : almost without parallel in the smiles of For- 
 tune, in wealth, Wife, children, etc., etc. So much for me 
 has been granted by kind Heaven, what have I done for 
 my fellow beings'? Very little beyond my own connec- 
 tions; my Wife, children, Mother & Sisters have not been 
 neglected, but beyond my immediate circle very little has 
 been done to promote the cause of religion, and strange 
 to say that with a full conviction of the error, I con- 
 tinue to be engrossed in the cares of this World, a desire 
 to increase a fortune now large, more than six hundred 
 Thousand dollars and one Hundred times more than I 
 expected at twenty years old ever to possess. My present 
 intentions are to lessen my business, try to bring my mind 
 to dwell on things of more importance, to associate more 
 with religious persons. Not that I suppose I can make my- 
 self what I would be, but I shall be more in the way of 
 Heaven's richest blessings. When I look about me and 
 see the wonderful kindness of the Supreme Being to me 
 in giving us such amiable children, endowed with a full 
 share of health, reason, together with this world's goods far 
 above what fall to the lot of most men, I pause ! Among 
 
i 
 
1839] Diary 65 
 
 the blessings I feel most is the promise of virtue and use- 
 fulness in our eldest son. He is all a kind parent could 
 wish; his disposition more valuable than many fortunes; 
 his principles so fixed that I trust he is safe from the or- 
 dinary temptations of this world; He has lately become 
 engaged to Miss Mary Lyman 1 with the full approbation 
 of all their friends. 
 
 1839 
 
 THE year has passed without any remarkable incidents 
 in my immediate Walks up to the present time. We are 
 now going to our new House at Brookline, the latter part 
 of July. It is in an unfinished state, or rather the place is. 
 Mary Ann took a journey to the Springs in Virginia with Dr. 
 Robbins, Dr. and Mrs. Hay ward and Miss Spring. She was 
 absent about six weeks and returned with improved health. 
 
 SEPTEMBER 2«< My excellent friend Hon^e Wm. 
 Sullivan 2 departed this life. He was a man of fair 
 talents, well educated, excellent heart, a true friend, dis- 
 appointed as a publick man; died regretted by all, par- 
 ticularly by those who knew him best ; to me he was an 
 ardent friend. In 1816, not expecting to return from Eu- 
 rope, I left him and Mr. Jonathan Amory 3 my executors, 
 or Trustees, but I have lived to settle both their estates. 
 \o th . Letters by the Steam Packet from Baring Brothers 
 and Co. indicated the failure of the United States Banks 
 
 1 Daughter of Mr. George W. Lyman. 2 His wife's uncle. 
 
 8 His wife's stepfather. 
 
66 William Appleton [^39 
 
 to meet their engagements in London. At the request of 
 Mr. Thorn. W. Ward I went on to New York ; I found 
 Mr.Sam'l Ward &Mr.Tho s Ward 1 of the opinion that Mr. 
 Jaudon, the Agent of the Banks, would not be sustained; 
 Mr. J. G. King, Sturgis, & myself thought he would. I 
 went to Philadelphia, found the Gentlemen of the Banks 
 quite disposed to put Ward off, and he in fact was on the 
 point of returning to New York when I arrived without 
 any explanation of their situation, but on taking strong 
 ground brought them out, but only in part. On the 15th 
 I returned to New York, where I remained, all in a State 
 of great anxiety for the arrival of the "British Queen" 
 Steamer: money quite scarce: United States Banks Post 
 Notes at ten months sell at 1^ per cent per month dis- 
 count, and no doubt they are sold by the Banks for their 
 own purposes. On the 20th the steamer arrived ; by her let- 
 ters it appeared that Mr. Jaudon had been sustained by the 
 assistance of six to seven hundred thousand pounds from 
 various houses, and the impression appeared to be that he 
 would get through, the Banks having made large remit- 
 tance in specie payment and stocks. On the 21st I re- 
 turned; found all well, our family at Brookline, except Mas- 
 ter Frank, who has just commenced his residence at Cam- 
 bridge, having entered College in the sophomore Class. I had 
 much anxiety as to his getting into College, but I trust he 
 will get on well; he has no bad habits, is inclined to be in- 
 dustrious, more sol think than any of my boys ; not particu- 
 larly fond of Study, but as much so as most lads of his age. 
 
 1 N. Y. representatives of Baring Brothers. 
 
1839] Diary 67 
 
 OCTOBER 18^. Returned yesterday from New York, 
 where I went ten days since at the request of several 
 of our Banks, at the receipt of the report that the Banks 
 of the United States had stopped payment. On my arri- 
 val at New York, I found all the Banks in PhiR had sus- 
 pended specie payment on the 9th & the Baltimore Banks 
 on the 10th. It was very doubtful in my mind whether New 
 York would not be obliged to follow, but all the gentle- 
 men of my acquaintance in Wall Street said they would 
 get on, but Pine Street Gen mn & Jobbers generally thought 
 otherwise. I went to Phil d , saw many of the persons inter- 
 ested in the U. S. Banks; they were much depressed. I 
 fancy the affairs will not be closed without failure among 
 the managers. Mr. Elihu Chauncy I found very com- 
 municative; he thinks Mr. Biddle a vain man, one who 
 would not have for his advisers persons who expressed 
 opinions not in accordance with his; that he had been the 
 cause of all the difficulties in the Banks, that he, Biddle, 
 Jaudon, Coperthwait, & Brown & Humphreys were in- 
 terested in the Liverpool House in having a share of the 
 profits of the firm of Humphreys & Biddle. Mr. Chauncy 
 thought that if the Phil d banks or the U. S. Banks & Girard 
 Banks had not managed very badly, they would have made 
 the N. York Banks suspend first. Their plan was that the 
 Girard Banks should draw bills on Morrison & Cryder, 
 sell them in New York & Baltimore, then draw the specie 
 to go by the Steamer & compel the Banks in New York 
 to suspend, but they were clumsy and failed, having sold 
 
68 William Appleton [1839 
 
 but some twenty thousand pounds in Baltimore & thirty 
 to forty elsewhere. He said if New York & Boston con- 
 tinue to pay specie PhiK must call in & resume as soon 
 as possible ; that he, in the Bank of Pennsylvania, was op- 
 posed to extending till it was ascertained what would be 
 finally done inNewYork. I returned to New York the 14th, 
 where I found much doubt existed as to their being able 
 to supply exchange for the steamer to sail on the 19th. 
 I considered it very doubtful if the Banks would be able 
 to sustain themselves, but the Banks finally made arrange- 
 ments to draw on London for about 250 s £, which changed 
 the appearance of things. Yet there were some bad features 
 in the future prospects, much was said of the Wall Street 
 Click. Sam 1 Ward is a sound man but very bad manners, 
 very unpopular. Tho s . W. Ward knows less but has all 
 his unpopularity, yet thinks he is a very great man. I have 
 prevented his making several very great blunders within 
 a month. On my return to Boston I find much excitement 
 on the question whether the Banks shall suspend or not. 
 There was a meeting of a large number of Merchants, it 
 being an adjournment from another meeting, the last night, 
 and on a motion to adjourn or take up the proposition 
 to recommend the Banks to suspend, there was about an 
 equal number. The statements that I made of the deter- 
 mination on the part of the Banks in New York & of their 
 strength produced much effect, yet I think it quite doubt- 
 ful how the affair turns; I think three-fourths of the traders 
 and Bank directors wish a suspension, but they are afraid 
 to avow it. I think on the whole we shall hold out as long 
 
1839] Diary 69 
 
 as they do in New York. 25^. We have rather alarming 
 accounts from New York on the subject of the specie pay- 
 ments. There was a meeting called of Merchants who have 
 appointed a committee to call on the Banks and request 
 them to increase their discounts, to receive & pay Bills of 
 the distant Banks, virtually to suspend specie payments. It 
 is doubtful whether the better part of the Merchants will 
 join in this project; if so the Banks must or a part of them 
 will be compelled to comply. I do not see any prominent 
 men among those of the committees. Jon n Amory appears 
 to be active ; poor fellow, I fear he will do no good for 
 himself or any one else in this World. 28 //?/ . The meeting 
 of Merchants in New York ended without any bad effects ; 
 on the contrary they made no impression on the Banks or 
 the publick other than induce the latter to support the 
 Banks; I now feel more confidence in the Banks holding 
 out to pay specie than I have at any former moment since 
 the actions of the Banks in Philadelphia; no failures of 
 consequence have taken place in this place or in New 
 York, nor will there be among persons able to pay their 
 debts. The trade of the last year has been good generally, 
 and till prices fall the trades have the appearance of having 
 made money. I fear before a year passes many who now 
 feel strong will find they have no property. 
 
 NOVEMBER VK The accounts from New York 
 show a continued pressure on the money market. 
 Stocks are very low & money worth three per cent per 
 month for paper of sixty to ninety days. Our accounts from 
 
70 William Appleton [^39 
 
 London to the 28th Sept. have it doubtful whether Mr. 
 Jaudon will be protested or not; the general opinion is 
 that he will fail; my feeling is that he will be carried on 
 from week to week till his engagements are much reduced 
 & then it will be for the interest of those who have aided 
 him to carry him through with his payments. \ th . We have 
 accounts by the "Great Western" steamer to the 20th Ul- 
 timo. It appears Mr. Jaudon has made a loan of £8oo~ for 
 one & two years on Bonds, with Stocks as collateral, which 
 costsover ten percent per annum; there appears little doubt 
 of the engagements of the Banks being complied with in 
 Europe. My feeling is that we shall have a dull business 
 the ensuing winter: prices must fall of most articles, those 
 of common stocks will advance ; flour is now worth in New 
 York $5.50 to $6.00. I think well of it as a speculation; 
 before the end of next June it will be worth $8.00. I may 
 purchase some but intend to limit my business. I never 
 felt more inclined to extend myself; I feel that a good 
 business may be done with capital or even on credit. 12 th . 
 Amory left us for New York with the intention of making 
 some purchases of flour; I think very well of the article; 
 the crop appears short in most places and the price low in 
 this Country; less than $6.00 the bbl. of 196 lbs. 
 
 DECEMBER 31". The summer we passed at Brook- 
 line; 1 we found it very pleasant, we shall probably 
 continue to pass our summers there. The children prom- 
 ise by their conduct to be useful members of society; our 
 
 1 The house is now occupied by Mr. Sherman Whipple. 
 
1840] Diary 71 
 
 eldest son continues a great comfort to me; he appears 
 truly religious, his disposition remarkably good, as are his 
 manners. Frank has been industrious in his studies and 
 appears to be doing well at Cambridge; our two eldest 
 daughters are all we could wish. The character of the other 
 children is to be formed; if they follow the example of the 
 older, we shall have great reason for gratitude. The year 
 has been an eventful one to the commercial world; the 
 most important circumstance was the suspension of the 
 Banks in Philadelphia and all to the south & west; I feel 
 as if I was useful in preventing the Banks in New York 
 and New England from following their example. I trust 
 all will come right, but we shall not get right till some new 
 system of restraint is adopted to prevent the extension of 
 the issuing of a paper currency. What this should be, or 
 when it will come, I will not predict. 
 
 1840 
 
 JANUARY. This year commences with dull prospects 
 for business. Our country has been blessed with an 
 abundant crop of the principal articles of consumption as 
 well as those of export; yet the state of the currency pre- 
 vents the goods passing through their usual channels; 
 besides, the west & the south are much in debt to the east, 
 and the whole nation, to Europe; we have been extrava- 
 gant in our importations of luxuries, and in our desire to 
 promote large private and public works, but no doubt all 
 will come round in due time. 
 
72 William Appleton [1840 
 
 FEBRUARY. I find myself much troubled with the 
 old enemy dyspepsia. The last month was very severe 
 weather which prevented my getting my usual exercise. 
 
 MARCH \$ th . For the last fifteen days I have been 
 dieting on a small quantity of meat & crackers, 
 after going through a course of physick; I have taken 
 before eating at each meal a preparation of Creosote. 
 
 A PRIL I st . My indisposition continues to an extent 
 x\. that it disquiets and alarms me. 15^. The last two 
 weeks I passed in journeying. Went to New York with 
 Mary Ann. "Trenton" arriv d : stored her cargo; sold her. 
 
 JUNE 18^. This is the day my dear Amory is to be 
 married to Miss Mary E. Lyman; may God bless 
 them! I think well of his choice, he deserves much. It is 
 a sad day to me, the idea of parting with him makes me 
 sad, almost sick; he has been my companion for three 
 years ; we have communicated freely on all subjects ; night 
 & morning has he read to us from Jay. We have daily 
 united together in prayer; I trust, I believe, with benefit to 
 both; his health is not firm; I fear he inherits the consti- 
 tution of his father; if so, a long life is hardly desirable; 
 yet, with all my infirmities, there are few persons who have 
 so much cause of gratitude to Heaven as myself: a wife 
 with an affectionate heart, with strong attachments to 
 her family, blessed with excellent health; children with 
 
1840] Diary 73 
 
 good dispositions, easily controulled ; many kind friends 
 and an ample fortune for myself & family, with the means 
 of aiding others of my own blood who require my assist- 
 ance. 
 
 JULY 2cA Find my health not improving; had a full 
 conversation with Dr. Warren ; he thinks I have done 
 all that can be effected by diet and proposes a journey, a 
 change of scene ; my feelings are for a trip to Europe, & 
 requested him to speak to Mrs. Appleton on the subject. 
 I am eating a dispepsey cracker & a cup of tea for my 
 breakfast, a small piece of meat & a cracker for dinner, 
 and the same at evening as the morning, yet such is the 
 state of my digestion that from flatulence I am most of the 
 time in positive pain ; persons not accustomed to the like 
 difficulties would think they had an attack of colick. 29^. 
 My difficulties continue and I am preparing for a voyage 
 to England to return this Autumn. 
 
 \ UGUST. Left for New York on the 17th, with rather 
 JTjL a heavy heart yet quite sure I was doing right. I 
 could not get my health without a change and giving up 
 my daily occupations. My wife much excited at my leav- 
 ing, she thought I might avoid it; but she will soon get 
 over it and I fully hope & believe her good, and that of 
 my family, will be promoted by so doing. On the morn- 
 ing of the 18th I met my excellent friend Mr. N. Apple- 
 ton, who had come from Newport to see me off, he has 
 ever been true to me, on board the "Great Western," in 
 
74 William Appleton [1840 
 
 which we took passage, my third son, Joseph Warren, 1 & 
 my servant, Ira Glidden, was my immediate party. We 
 sailed at 3 p.m. from the Wharf; left the Pilot about six 
 on evening of the 18th. I dined lightly, took some Mag- 
 nesia; slept well; passed the 19th in reading the life of 
 Franklin by Mr. Sparks. 21^. Early in the morning re- 
 ported to have spoken the ship "Nantasket" 36 days from 
 Liverpool. 22 w < We get on well, occupied pleasantly read- 
 ing, eating, playing whist, etc. I can hardly describe how 
 delighted I feel at being able to join with others in their 
 conversations & amusements; I have not felt so well for 
 months. Sunday, 2y d . Calm, near the banks of New- 
 foundland, foggy. Capt. Haskins read the service & Mr. 
 Grant a sermon, very orderly & much deference shown 
 by most of the passengers. Monday, i\ th . West wind, all 
 sails set; studding sails, lower & upper, set: our voyage 
 appears to prosper & my health improve, thanks to kind 
 Heaven. l^ th . South West wind, going on rapidly; I find 
 Mr. Grant a valuable acquaintance. Warren gets on very 
 well, he appears quite a favourite. Run, 260 miles per log. 
 26^. Wind North East — heavy sea — dead lights in 
 cabin windows. 27^. Wind southerly, most of our sails set, 
 delightful morning; finding myself alone, most of the pas- 
 sengers in their staterooms, my thoughts return to them 
 I left at home; a pang passed my breast, but on contrasting 
 my present feelings free from pain, my mind clear, in char- 
 ity with & good will to all the world, I felt selfish enough 
 to give up the society of all I love and the possession of 
 
 1 He changed his name later to William. 
 
1840] Diary 75 
 
 what I have been long, carefully and successfully getting 
 together, & pass the remainder of my days on board Ship, 
 rather than return to endure the feelings I have had to 
 contend with much of the time for the last four months. 
 28^. Passing rapidly through the water; they say 12 miles 
 the hour. Saturday, 29^. A most delightful morning, sea 
 smooth, wind light, going on rapidly with a clear sky — 
 went 263 miles the last 24 hours; we are now 300 miles 
 from Ireland. Sunday, op th . Cold, N. West wind — find my 
 great coat & thick gloves desirable. Monday, 31^. Very 
 unpleasant cold N. E. wind, with rain, a heavy sea; the 
 only pleasant thing is the prospect of being in our port 
 this evening. We arrived at our anchorage, Kings Roads, 
 at 10 o'clock; passed up by an interesting bold shore. 
 
 SEPTEMBER 1", Tuesday. We were called at 5 this 
 morning to prepare for going on shore. We arrived 
 at Bristol about seven; very little trouble in passing our 
 baggage. Passed the morning in riding about Clifton & 
 Bristol — many very fine Houses & other buildings. We 
 went to see the Steam Iron Ship building; it is said she 
 will measure three thousand tons. I like her model; she 
 may & probably will answer the purpose intended, but I 
 should not like the stock. Mr. Haliburton, Warren & my- 
 self passed the afternoon in riding about the City of Bath 
 and its environs. Bath is one of the finest Towns in Eng- 
 land, the prospect from the high grounds is most splendid. 
 We dined at six, Mr. Bigelow of the Army (of Watertown) 
 with us. 2 nd . Left Bath; passed over a most excellent road 
 
76 William Appleton [1840 
 
 & through a fine country, the entire distance from Bath 
 to London. The grounds are in a good state of cultiva- 
 tion, the chalk lands not very productive, the dwellings 
 are many of them magnificent. On the whole I think the 
 ride as interesting as any I have seen; I had no idea of the 
 difference between an English and American Rail Road 
 before this day, there is as much as between the elegant 
 Mansions we have been passing & our Humble Mansions. 
 3 r < We find ourselves very comfortable at the Brunswick 
 Hotel, Hanover Square; our rooms on 1st story above 
 the basement, fronting on the Square. Rec' d a kind Note 
 from Mr. Wiggin, asking me to come & take a bed at 
 his house, which I shall probably accept after a few days. 
 Went to the City, called at Baring's; well rec d by Mr. 
 Bates & Mildmay. Went to see my old friend W m W ms 
 Brown; delighted to meet me again. I go tomorrow to 
 breakfast with him & some of his children. Called on 
 Forbes & Co. I think them intelligent men. \ th . Went to 
 Mr. Wiggin's, took up our quarters with him; he, full of 
 old affairs, pleased to have some persons to hear him talk. 
 We went to the City, called at Baring's, got £ioo, called 
 at some shops; returned home to 28 Parker Crescent in 
 the rain, dined pleasantly at six, chatted till 1 1 o'clock, & 
 retired. London, Saturday, $ th . We went to the City, stop- 
 ping at Vauxhall Market, then at the tailor's; returned 
 to lunch at One & went again at three to purchase car- 
 pets, table linen, etc. Sat up late with Mr. Wiggin, getting 
 a history of his early life, to the trouble of poor relations, 
 etc. Sunday, 6 t/l . We went with Mr. & Mrs. Wiggin to 
 
1840] Diary 77 
 
 Church, a very good looking chapel; pleasant sermon of 
 Orthodox character, church not full, very few Males in 
 proportion; on our return we stopped to lunch at Mr. 
 Tim^ Wiggin's on Roast beef, Lamb's Head, pudding, 
 then Pears & Apples. Mr. Peabody, Mr. Mildmay, Mr. 
 Coutts, and Col. Mauray called. We went with Mr. & 
 Mrs. Bates to the Zoological Garden; took a drive of some 
 three hours through the west part of London, Hyde Park, 
 etc. It is beyond anything within the range of my ideas, 
 the extent of this city. Saturday, 1 2 th . Left London at 1 1 
 O'Clock, arrived at Leamington at 5. Sunday, 13^. Dr. 
 Jephson called; on seeing me he asked if I was usually 
 so thin, and said my liver wanted looking to, but con- 
 cluded that unless I was going to remain some weeks it 
 would not be well for me or him to proceed further. He 
 bade me good morning, taking no fee; after consulting 
 Mr. Montgomery I wrote him a note, & he called again 
 & I concluded to make this my principal residence dur- 
 ing my stay in England. In the afternoon we rode to Guy's 
 Cliff & Warwick Castle. Monday, 14A Left at 9 o'clock 
 for Liverpool, the first ten miles in Phaeton to Coving- 
 ton \os., boy 2s., then took Rail Road to Liverpool. Found 
 at the Adelphi a bundle of letters from home, all of the 
 most pleasing character. Liverpool, \$ th . Went into the 
 Coffee room & was much pleased to see A. Lawrence — 
 son of Mr. Amos Lawrence; he had just come in from Ire- 
 land with his friend. An* 1 at Leamington at seven; found 
 Warren on the steps looking for father. \& h . Dr. Jephson 
 called; after asking variety of questions as to my head, if 
 
78 William Appleton [1840 
 
 I had turns of dizziness, loss of memory, pain in my sides, 
 which being answered in the negative, he felt of my side, 
 back, & front, gave me the direction for some Physick, 
 which I went to get and drank at the Apothecary's; he 
 called again at 7 o'clock and directed me to get a further 
 medicine, a tonic. We changed our rooms for those more 
 cheerful, particularly our sitting room; we pay £12, 12s., 
 6d. per week, exclusive of wine. \j t/l . Took a carriage, 
 Warren & Ira, & went to Warwick Castle, a fine pile of 
 ancient architecture, in the best preservation of anything of 
 the kind I ever saw. We went through the House & castle, 
 the family being absent on a tour to the Continent. We 
 then went to Kenilworth; the Ruins are grand & beautiful. 
 There is no pleasure in looking at fallen greatness; this 
 was once a scene of the greatest splendour of the time ; the 
 entertainment by the Earl Leicester of Queen Elizabeth. 
 On our return we found Mr. Wiggin who had kindly come 
 from London to join us. 19^. After seeing Dr. Jephson, 
 who spoke very encouragingly, we took an open carriage 
 & went to Stratford on the Avon, where we visited the 
 House where Shakespeare was born, a very small dwelling 
 about fifteen feet front, two stories high, built of wood & 
 mortar; the walls of the chamber where he first saw light 
 were covered with the names of persons who had vis- 
 ited the place. The mortal remains of Shakespeare were 
 deposited in the church in this place; the House had re- 
 mained in possession of the family until 1806. We returned 
 to Leamington and Mr. Amos A. Lawrence, Amos' son, 
 joined us. 22 w < Lawrence & Weston left us for Birmingham 
 
1840] Diary 79 
 
 & sent back by Post boy a letter saying they had engaged 
 tickets for us at the Musical festival on Thursday. Wednes- 
 day, 2y d . Went in the usual course to the Pump Room, 
 took two tumblers of warm water. 24A We left for Birming- 
 ham to attend the Musical festival. We went with our guinea 
 tickets to the Hall, and a very good one, but we found 
 no seats for us. There were some Hundreds of musicians. 
 Brahms was the first to sing in the Messiah ; the Organ was 
 very powerful and when all in full chorus it was, even to my 
 dull ears for music, overpowering. We arrived at London at 
 seven. Friday, 25 th . Fully occupied in picking up my little 
 affairs for those I most love, and in preparation (Heaven 
 willing) to soon join them. Mr. Augustus Thorndike came 
 from Paris to see me; we talked some five or six hours, 
 I think I did him good. Saturday, 2& h . Warren went to 
 Blenheim with Mr. Lawrence & Mason. I talked till near 
 twelve o'clock with Mr. Bates; he tells me to leave off busi- 
 ness, that I am not aware of the effect it has on my health. 
 I fancy he knows less of me than I do of myself. 27^, Leam- 
 ington. Arrived here at a little before 4 o'clock. Mr. Wiggin 
 has been all attention to us. He has many good points; of 
 his peculiarities it becomes not me to speak, when receiv- 
 ing his hospitality. Thursday, 30^. Dr. Jephson made his last 
 visit, I think well of him; he told me my complaints were 
 within controul, yet without much care in diet, exercise, 
 etc., there was great danger of a general decay of the whole 
 body. If I ate and drank like persons in health I should 
 very soon be in my grave. He hoped to hear of and from 
 me on my return. We left for Birmingham, where we slept. 
 
80 William Appleton [1840 
 
 OCTOBER 3^, Liverpool. Mr. and Mrs. Bates arrived 
 from London. I think very well of him &she is a good 
 hearted woman, has not much mind. Sunday, 4A News 
 of the Attack of the British fleet on Bey rout. Mr. Bates 
 thinks there will be no war. At midday Mr. and Mrs. Bates 
 took a carriage & accompanied me to the Steamer, where 
 we took leave. At three o'clock we commenced our voyage, 
 the weather very fine, which continued for most of the 
 week. On Saturday, at night the wind blew very hard, 
 they called it a severe gale; during the gale we made good 
 work, from six to eight miles the Hour. We arrived at 
 Halifax on Thursday, and arrived on Saturday Morning in 
 Boston, thirty-two hours from Halifax, & twelve & a half 
 days from Liverpool. Our passage pleasant and an uncom- 
 mon pleasant set of passengers. Among them Judge Por- 
 ter of Louisiana, Professor Moore of New York, Rev. Mr. 
 Strong from Canada, Col. Houston, Col. Gascoin, Capt. 
 Shirley and Lady, Maj. Ervin, U. S. A., Mr. Trapman, & 
 Mr. Davis of Charleston. There was no dispute or trouble 
 during the voyage ; our vessel & Captain, first rate : the ser- 
 vants not accustomed to their business but with good in- 
 tentions. The " Great Western" much the most comfortable 
 Vessel particularly for the summer. \~j th . I find myself at 
 home again after an absence of sixty days. My family and 
 friends I find well, nothing unpleasant has occurred since 
 I left. We had to pass the evening with us, some fifty of 
 our passengers and our friends of this place invited to meet 
 them. My time taken up in seeing my friends and accom- 
 
1840] Diary 81 
 
 panying Mr. Stewart, Capt. & Mrs. Shirley to the Navy 
 Yard & Bunker Hill. 18'^. I went to church I trust with 
 a grateful heart for the many blessings that surround me. 
 19^. Went to Mrs. Eustis' to show the House 1 to Capt. 
 Shirley. io^ d . Delightful day; went with Mrs. A. to see my 
 Mother and family. 25^. In the course of the night Thunder 
 & snow which quite covered the ground, & in the country 
 fifty miles, sufficient for sleighing. 30^. We got accounts 
 from New York of the arrival of the " Delhi " from Canton, 
 the prospect is in favour of our making a very good voy- 
 age, I fancy two hundred thousand dollars net. 
 
 NOVEMBER 17 'A. Capt. Shirley sent me a letter by 
 Capt. Le Merchant; he was but one day with us, 
 a pleasant ge^man, aide to the Gov. Gen 1 of Canada. 18^. 
 Went to our place at Brookline to look after Sheridan who 
 had commenced putting out some trees. I find I have some 
 cold ; doubt if I get through the winter in this climate. 
 20 th . Ship "Charlotte" arrived; twenty-eight days from 
 Liverpool. 
 
 DECEMBER 2 nd . Left for New York at the request 
 of the Banks in this City to devise measures to 
 aid the Banks in Philadelphia to resume specie payment. 
 ~j th . Left New York in " Narragansett," arrived in Boston 
 in fourteen Hours. q*K Engaged in making up the amount 
 required to loan the Phil d Banks. My belief is that the 
 resumption will be an efficient one ; that the finances of 
 
 1 Shirley-Eustis House. 
 
82 William Appleton [1840 
 
 the Country will improve ; the U. S. Bank will become 
 more in favour ; but the real state and management of the 
 bank has been and is bad, very bad, awfully so. 'Thursday, 
 31^, 10 o'clock p.m. Returned from Assembly at Papanti's ; 
 left Mrs. A., Amory & wife, & my two eldest daughters 
 to dance out the old & in the New Year, as the saying is. 
 How we trifle with time, health and all that is valuable! 
 My belief is that my indisposition is much increased by 
 too much weight on my mind; when quite free from cir- 
 cumstances to embarrass and vex me, I am quite well. 
 
 1841 
 
 JANUARY 1*. Mrs. Appleton is laid up from the late 
 hours of the last night or this morning; the younger 
 part of the family are out in various directions — Frank, 
 Mary Ann & Sarah at Mrs. T. H. Perkins jr.'s ; the 
 smaller children at Mrs. Lowell's. I must endeavour to 
 correct my faults and improve my habits; my usefulness 
 and probably my life depends on my so doing ; it is quite 
 clear to my mind that I have had too much business; I 
 am very anxious about the affairs of others under my con- 
 troul. I do not neglect going to Church, saying my prayers 
 with my children, & in private, but there is a coldness not 
 to be mistaken. I read less than I might, think less on re- 
 ligious subjects. I will lessen my business and see if I can- 
 not, with God's help, pass this year more in accordance with 
 His will. 2 nd . Went to ride with Mary Ann; excellent 
 sleighing. I have much reason to be pleased with my two 
 
1841] Diary 83 
 
 eldest daughters, they have excellent health, good dispo- 
 sitions and quite pleasing in their manners. Sarah quite 
 the belle I am told by my friends. Mr. Quincy speaks very 
 well of Frank; his rank appeared to be 19 in a class of 
 sixty to seventy; deportment good; stands well with his 
 associates. b th . Meeting Lowell rail road Prop., Apple ton 
 Company & Lowell Company; all well managed corpo- 
 rations. 7^. Went to Lowell to examine the Middlesex 
 Company's establishment with Mr. G. W. Lyman & J. A. 
 Lowell. The buildings are good, the Machinery equal to 
 any in this Country. S th . A large party at Mr. Cleveland's, 
 Jamaica Plain. 9^. We have accounts from England to 
 the 14th ultimo, from Canton 6th August & Calcutta 
 to 6th October; the English appear to meet with very little 
 opposition in their first attacks on the Chinese Towns; 
 in my opinion they will soon bring the Chinese to terms. 
 Were I governed by my opinion I should sell our tea, but 
 Mr. Lawrence, Oxnard & Amory think better of holding 
 than I do and I am willing to comply with their feelings 
 in part but intend to make some sales the first opportunity. 
 14^. Meeting Bunker Hill Monument Association: I paid 
 over the donation of Mr. Truro of ten thousand dollars. 
 A committee was appointed to prepare an inscription for 
 a tablet to be placed on the Monument, describing the 
 object for which it was built. I was chosen, but declined, 
 not feeling as if I should find myself at home with J. Q. 
 Adams, Webster, Everett, Storrow, etc. ; my modesty does 
 not often trouble me. Went to Cambridge and brought 
 in Frank, his vacation commenced this day. \$ th . Suffered 
 
84 William Appleton [1841 
 
 much the last night by pain in my face and went this 
 morning and had two teeth extracted, almost the last of 
 my back teeth. An empty house is said to be preferable to 
 bad tenants. i8 M . Mrs. Appleton & the young ladies at- 
 tended the Ball at Papanti's. 22 nd . Mrs. Appleton & the 
 young ladies were at Mrs. Ticknor's, Frank their beau; the 
 parties the present season are more numerous than usual; I 
 do not join them. 27 /A . Mr. Benj. Gilbert, native of Brook- 
 field, a friend of my father & mother, Amory & Mary 
 also, dined with us. 30^. Wrote Goodhue & Co. to sell one 
 thousand of the chests Canton Young Hyson Tea at sev- 
 enty cents; they stating they can get that price from Phil d : 
 speculation. 
 
 FEBRUARY V*. We have accounts from China 5th 
 Oct.: there appears to be a prospect of an adjustment 
 of the difficulties between England & China. The tea hold- 
 ers are much alarmed; what will be the effect in this coun- 
 try it is quite difficult to say. I fancy when the next news 
 comes it will be less alarming and business will begin again, 
 but prices will not again get up to those lately obtained. 
 2 nd . Mrs. Appleton had small party. I went the last night 
 with the young ladies to the Assembly, quite pleasant — 
 although a snowstorm. of d . Fine sleighing. Frank & the 
 young ladies have gone on a party to Mrs. Guild's with 
 Mrs. Ticknor &c. 5 th . Dined at Mr. Oxnard's, a large & 
 pleasant party; Mrs. A. & the young ladies were at Mrs. 
 Minot's. 6 M . We have accounts of the suspension of the 
 U. S. Banks of Pennsylvania. I fancy they must go into 
 
1841] Diary 85 
 
 liquidation — bad — bad — bad. 7 th . Party at Mrs. Am- 
 ory's (family Party). g t/l . Party, Mrs. Nathan Appleton's, 
 very pleasant. ii«*. Party at Mrs. John C. Gray's & Mrs. 
 Rogers'. 12^. Party, Mrs. George Gardner's. \$ th . Mrs. Ap- 
 pleton & young ladies at Assembly. l\ th . Left for New- 
 York. I find it very pleasant to have Ira with me. 26^. 
 Attended sale of tea which sold for about fifteen cents less 
 than the price in December. 
 
 MARCH *]*K At Church with all the children. Mr. 
 Stone preached. 30^. Called on Sir George Arthur, 
 Go v . Canada. 31". Visited Navy Yard, Bunker Hill, & Mt. 
 Wachusett with Sir George Arthur, a pleasant, gentle- 
 manly man. 
 
 \ PRIL 3 r < Frank was at dinner with his friends Rod- 
 jLx. man & Nichols. $ th . This morning we are informed 
 of the death of Gen 1 Harrison, President of the U. States: 
 an event which may produce much derangement in the 
 Government, but my belief is that it will rather tend to 
 conciliate the feelings of the opposing men to the present 
 Colonel. b th . The engagement between our second daugh- 
 ter and Mr. A. A. Lawrence was made known; I have not 
 been very desirous that she should accept him at present, 
 feeling that she was very young, had seen little of the 
 world, with much to attract in her person & manners. I 
 wished her to take time & deliberate, but she thinks she 
 knows her mind, and I trust all will be right. He is a 
 young man of good common sense, with business habits, 
 
86 William Appleton [1841 
 
 a very safe man to entrust a daughter with; if she loves 
 him & respects him there can be no reasonable objection 
 on the part of her parents. 7 th . Mr. & Mrs. Abbott Law- 
 rence & the various members of the family called. 8 th . 
 Annual Fast. Went to prayer at St. Paul's Chapel; attended 
 service at Federal Street, Mr. Gannett preached an occa- 
 sional sermon, alluding to the death of the President of 
 the United States; attended service at St. Paul's in the 
 evening with Mr. N. Amory & Mrs. A. 12^. Left for New 
 York and met a violent snowstorm, so remained in Ston- 
 ington during the night. 13^. Arrive din N.York at 4 P.M.; 
 find they have had a greater fall of snow than at any one 
 time this season. 14^. Sold about half the tea we have 
 belonging to Ship "Delhi" owners, at very good prices; 
 fully equal to those of Nov. last. 15^. Engaged in busi- 
 ness ; called at Mr. Oakey's & several other places. Evening 
 left for Boston, found at the Boat Mrs. T. Cary, Sir John 
 Caldwell, Lady Arthur & family, pleasant persons. 2o M . 
 Grand procession and Eulogy by Mr. Choate on the death 
 of the President of the U. States, Gen 1 Harrison. 26^. Went 
 to Medford to see the " Mary Ellen " launched. Mrs. J. A. 
 A. 1 & our Harriet & Hetty made the party. 29^. Left for 
 New York, quite pleasant; when we arrived at Stonington 
 Wind changed to N.East, violent gale ; our boat (the " Mo- 
 hican") with many goods on deck broached to, laid on her 
 side for some time; much alarm and danger; I remained 
 in my berth feeling I could do no good on deck, and if 
 we were to be lost I might as well go down in the boat as 
 
 1 Her name was Mary Ellen. 
 
1841] Diary 87 
 
 to be drowned outside ; I thought the danger less than it 
 was; I endeavoured to recollect if there was anything I 
 had left in an unfinished state, but as to my Worldly affairs, 
 I had nothing that required my particular attention. We 
 arrived at New York at eight o'clock. 
 
 MAY \ th . Frank had a part at exhibition; got through 
 very well, a very good lad. 11'*. Left with Mary 
 Ann & Sarah for N. Y.; the young Ladies went to visit 
 Mrs. Meredith at Staten Island. 18^. Engaged in getting 
 the "Mary Ellen" ready for sea; I wrote orders for Mr. 
 Heard & cleared ship. 10 th . Ship sailed with a light fair 
 wind. 26^. Sale, Gov. Winthrop's furniture & wine. 
 
 JULY 9^. Mary Ann, Sarah, & Frank left with me for 
 a trip to Niagara & Canada. Slept at Springfield, a very 
 good House. 10^. Went to the Cabot Mills & the Armory. 
 Took the cars for Chester Mills, then a stage for Pittsfield. 
 \\ th , Sunday. Took a Carriage, went to the Shakers' after 
 service, & went to Albany. \l th . Went to Schenectady. 
 13^. At Saratoga. 14A To Utica. 15^. Went to Trenton 
 Falls, much pleased; returned to Utica to sleep. 16^. Left 
 at 5 a.m. At Syracuse took Canal Boat for Oswego, then 
 Steamer for Lewiston; the passage was rough and not pleas- 
 ant. 17^. Arrived at Lewiston & Niagara — at Cataract 
 House, well accommodated. i8 M , Sunday. We passed most 
 of our time on Goat Island. 19^. Went to the Canada 
 side of the river and passed the day viewing the Falls from 
 various points. 2.0 th . Left for Toronto, a good looking Place, 
 
88 William Appleton [1841 
 
 some 20™ Inhabitants. 2i J/ . Went to view the Troops, a 
 Highland Regiment. 2^ rd . Arrived at Montreal (Roscoe's 
 Hotel). Captain and Mrs. Shirley took us to the Circus, 
 Hussar Barracks, and had the Band entertain us, &c; dined 
 with them very pleasantly. 24A At Church & dined with 
 Mess 85th Regiment. 25 th . Rode with Shirleys to the 
 Country and Racecourse to see his Horses, and left for 
 Quebec. 26^. Went with Col. Gascoin and Col. Clive to 
 Montmorency and to the Fortifications, Plains of Abra- 
 ham, &c. 27^. Dined at a Pick Nick at Col. Gascoin's 
 Rooms with some dozen Officers; much pleased by their 
 attentions; left at evening for Montreal. 28^. Mr. & Mrs. 
 Shirley & Maj r Dickinson dined with us. 29^. Col. Gray 
 quite civil to us, wished us to remain to see his Regi- 
 ment, &c. Arrived at Burlington at 7 A.M., at Ticonderoga 
 at 1 1 O'clock, more company than room. 30^. Went to 
 Lake George, delightful day. 31^, Sunday. We passed the 
 day very pleasantly. 
 
 AUGUST \ st . Arrived at Saratoga, slept at Troy. 2 nd . 
 £jL Dined at Mr. Warren's and took passage for New 
 York. 3 r < " Akbar" with Mrs. Coolidge arrived from Can- 
 ton. \ th . Arrived in Boston and found all well. 26^. Mr. 
 R. D. Shepherd dined with us & passed the night. 
 
 OCTOBER l". Col. Bentinck of the Coldstream 
 Guards dined with us; a gentlemanly person. 2 nd . 
 Took Col. Bentinck to Boston, he sailed in the Steamer for 
 
 1 Mr. Joseph Coolidge was in business there with Mr. Heard. 
 
1841] Diary 89 
 
 Liverpool. 24A At Trinity Church, took Lord Morpeth. 
 Bishop of Tennessee preached. 29^. Amory 23 years old. 
 
 NOVEMBER 1*. Engaged in preparing to get the 
 " Charlotte " ready for a voyage to India. 24A Ball at 
 Faneuil Hall for the Prince. 1 25^, thanksgiving. Party of 
 some fifty at my House. J. A. Appleton's first child born. 
 2Q t/l . Quite an excitement in the Money Market. 30^. 
 Rode with Mr. Abbott Lawrence; he is quite alarmed for 
 great Houses in London. 
 
 DECEMBER \*K My old friend Dr. Potter 2 arrived 
 and will pass a few days at our House. 12^. Dr. Pot- 
 ter Preached at St. Paul's, Trinity & Grace Church, I like 
 him better than ever; he is first rate; he has character and 
 more tact than any man of his profession I ever knew. 
 Christmas. Mrs. Amory, daughters, & Thomas, Mr. & Mrs. 
 N. Amory, Mr. Lawrence and all our children dined with 
 us. They appeared happy, not so with me as I see by the 
 New York American that were indicted for get- 
 ting goods by false pretences. This will be a most distress- 
 ing business; they must lose their reputation at best, and the 
 interesting family suffer unjustly for their father's indiscre- 
 tion; he does not intend doing wrong but he comes so near 
 it in thought and action that it is difficult to find an excuse 
 for him. 
 
 1 Prince de Joinville. Quincy and Faneuil Halls were connected for the occasion. 
 3 Afterwards Bishop of Pennsylvania. 
 
go William Appleton [1842 
 
 1842 
 
 JANUARY io th . Mrs. Appleton had a party for the 
 Lawrences; very pleasant. 7& h . Most delightful 
 weather. Went before a Committee of the Legislature in 
 relation to Cambridge Bridge. 
 
 FEBRUARY fh Attended Meeting of Sugar Refin- 
 ery stockholders and resigned my treasurership ; we 
 have got on pleasantly with the business, but they are a poor 
 set and will be in difficulty within one year; I have no con- 
 fidence in them. ofK Strong N. W. Wind. "Barnstable" 
 sailed for the coast of California. 1 I th . Meeting Proprietors 
 West Boston Bridge. 19^. Remained in the House, not 
 quite well, very nervous; if they do not get through with 
 V trial soon, they will kill me! 
 
 MARCH 2 nd . Harriet had a party of Ladies and Lads 
 the last night, of about sixty. I do not like them. 
 25^, Good Friday. Attended prayers at the Chapel in the 
 morning, sermon by Dr. Vinton in the Church; attended 
 Price lecture at Trinity and at our Chapel in the evening; 
 very full. 27^, Easter Sunday. Our dear Mary Ann went 
 for the first time to the Communion; I felt it much. Of the 
 many, very many blessings I have, that of our children ap- 
 pearing to have religious feelings, I feel most. I have felt 
 more as I think a Christian should feel this day, than for 
 
 1 A friend who got into financial difficulties. 
 
1842] Diary 91 
 
 many ; I will most earnestly pray that I may give myself 
 up to my Maker. I believe, Help, Lord, my unbelief. 28^. 
 Had a long conversation with Mr. Vinton, quite unsettled 
 in my mind. I then went to Mr. N. Appleton's Store and 
 met Mr. J. K. Mills who said to Mr. Appleton, " I went to 
 hear Dr. Vinton and saw W m there, was told he went three 
 times each day to Church." I said it was the season of our 
 Church for many services, rather apologizing, &c. Awoke 
 in the night with a feeling as if I had discovered in a 
 dream my difficulty; it was that I was not willing to give 
 myself up to my Maker, that I was disposed to give the 
 World more than the half of my heart, that I was not will- 
 ing that a portion of my friends should know that I went 
 to meet religious men, that I made excuses for going to a 
 place of worship other than on Sunday, that, in fact, I was 
 ashamed to acknowledge myself the follower of Him who 
 died for my sins; such were my sensations, I could not 
 again get to sleep. I awoke my wife, told her of some of 
 my feelings; when I left my room I felt as if I wished an 
 opportunity of showing myself to the whole World and 
 to declare that henceforth I would make religion my first 
 & great object of life. 29^. Went at 8 o'clock to Prayers 
 where I had a conversation with Mr. Vinton, told him my 
 feelings; he encouraged me by saying it was the work of 
 God. 30^. I find myself quite happy and satisfied with the 
 resolutions to be a whole Christian. At lecture in the even- 
 ing, much pleased and enjoyed the service much. 31^. Quite 
 engaged in the morning after prayers at the Chapel attend- 
 ing to the preparation for the Marriage of our dear Sarah 
 
92 William Appleton [1842 
 
 to Mr. Lawrence. I found my feelings various & conflict- 
 ing ; the giving up of an affectionate, kind, lovely daughter 
 causes sensations not easily described. I have much con- 
 fidence in him, and great in her judgment & kindness of 
 heart. I think if she has health she will be a useful woman. 
 The ceremony was performed by Mr. Vinton in a very 
 acceptable manner, in the presence of many of our rela- 
 tions & friends; after which our House was filled with our 
 acquaintances; they left generally at y 2 past ten when 
 the wedding party of about sixty supped informally. Thus 
 ended the day, and I surrendered my dear second daughter 
 to another's care with ardent prayer to Almighty God to 
 grant her His protection and the blessings of His grace. 
 
 \ PRIL \$*K Amory's son was christened George Ly- 
 xi man. They (the father & mother) dined with us. 16^. 
 Frank & myself called on Dr. Warren in relation to Frank's 
 going to China. 19^. Arrived at New York, engaged in ar- 
 ranging tea sale. i\ st . Arrived at home, found all busy with 
 various business getting Frank's arrangements made, &c; 
 David Sears, jr., is going with Frank to China. II nd . Went 
 in Morning with Mrs. A. & most of the family to prayers 
 at Chapel. Engaged in Business as usual, a meeting at Mr. 
 Reynolds' at evening. 23 r < Quite occupied, too much 
 so for my own good. 28^. Much engaged in getting the 
 "Delhi" ready for sea. At 5 o'clock she left the wharf with 
 our dear Frank as passenger in company with David Sears, 
 jr., and the son of Mr. George Howe. I felt much in part- 
 ing with my dear boy ; there is much in him to love & ad- 
 
1842] Diary 93 
 
 mire, proud & independent, careful of his Reputation, ex- 
 cellent feelings, opinionated, not inclined to be much con- 
 trolled, yet would not act in opposition to his father. His 
 intercourse with men will improve him; I feel as if he had 
 within him the talents to be very useful and acceptable 
 in the World. op th . Went to Cambridge with Mr. Vinton; 
 called on Mr. Greenleaf, much talk as to Theological 
 Seminary: I said, "Now is the time to begin; if you Gent 1 
 will put things as they should be, I will purchase the House 
 opposite the Craigie place, if it is to be had for ten thousand 
 dollars. Wind West — fine time the "Delhi " probably has. 
 
 MAY I st . Communion Sunday. I have never before 
 felt so much interest in Missions; I feel much in- 
 clined to give the balance of my income to religious ob- 
 jects, not confined to Missionaries, but to the education 
 of ministers & workers for Christ. I feel that it is a true 
 test of a man's religion, his desire to impart it to others. 
 Monday Morning, 2 nd , My mind dwelt most of the night on 
 the subject of which I was contemplating last evening. I 
 think my true course is to spend my income as above stated. 
 Amory fully agrees with me in the course I propose. 27^. 
 Arrived at home from New York. Mary Ann with Amory 
 and wife & Master George gone to see my Mother. 29^. 
 An interesting day to us: Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence, Mary 
 Ann & forty-five others have been confirmed by Bishop 
 Griswold. I have seldom felt more grateful to kind Provi- 
 dence than this day in seeing my children go to the Altar 
 & making a publick profession of religion. 
 
94 William Appleton [1842 
 
 JUNE 6 th . Went with Warren & William Burnham to 
 Mount Vernon; found my good mother very weak, I 
 think she will not live many days! She was in a delight- 
 ful state of mind, quite ready to go. It was the pleasant- 
 est visit to her I ever made. What cannot Heaven do! 8 t/l . 
 Put up an Organ, a present to our Chapel from my Wife. 
 lQth m Went to visit my mother, she will not continue long. 
 18^. Went to Mount Vernon and found my mother quite 
 as well as when I left her some days since, but quite ner- 
 vous. 22 w < Went with a Nurse for my Mother; found her 
 much as when last at Mount Vernon. 25^. Rec d a letter 
 dated this morning stating my mother was changing rap- 
 idly. I left at two O'clock for Mount Vernon, arrived at 
 six, found my mother quite low; she apparently knew me 
 but was unable to speak : her spirit took its flight about 
 ten o'clock without any struggle. 26^. Melancholy day! 
 She, who gave me existence, who watched over my in- 
 fancy, the adviser of my youth & of maturer years, is gone 
 to the World of spirits. She was the daughter of Jacob 
 Hook 1 of Kingston, N. H., a man of excellent Character, 
 & large property for the place. He had no son, but three 
 daughters; the Eldest married Mr. Sanborn, who lived & 
 died at Kingston, aged eighty-three; the second, my mother, 
 was said to be a young woman of much beauty & accom- 
 plishments for the time; she became acquainted with my 
 
 1 Jacob Hook, b. 1724, d. 1 802. " He visited his widowed daughter, coming on 
 horseback, followed by his faithful slave Pompey. He was a fine figure with 
 queue and short clothes and ruffles." 
 
1842] Diary 95 
 
 father while he was preaching at Kingston, where he was in- 
 vited to settle, but declined. They were married & went to 
 reside at Brookfield, where he was settled as Minister of the 
 North Parish, where he remained through the remainder 
 of his life. (He died at forty-four.) My Mother, a woman 
 of feeble health in that portion of her life while having 
 Children, showed much energy in the management of the 
 estate of my father, and the care of her Children. The 
 property was sold at Brookfield & we removed to Kings- 
 ton, & from there to a farm given my Mother by her 
 father at Hawke, 1 where we remained until 1798, about 
 three years, when my mother married Major Daniel Gould 
 of Lyndborough, N. H., where she went with the family 
 to reside. Mr. Gould died after about five years & my 
 Mother went to live at Hillsborough with my sister Mrs. 
 Starrett, where she remained until 1812 when she removed 
 to Mount Vernon, where she passed the remainder of her 
 days. She was a woman of a remarkably strong mind, 
 quick of apprehension, inclined to be playful & witty, &, 
 but for the sense of duty, would have often been satirical. 
 From the time my father died she was very particular in 
 giving her children religious instruction, praying with them 
 in her Chamber. She was early a communicant of the 
 Church, but often spoke of her unworthiness, & appeared 
 at times much depressed as to the true state of her heart 
 with her God; these feelings continued until nearly the 
 close of her life, when she had full confidence in our Re- 
 deemer's atonement. She died in a most happy state of 
 
 1 Near Kingston, New Hampshire. 
 
96 William Appleton [1842 
 
 mind, aged eighty-six the last February. 2Tj th . Funeral ser- 
 vice performed by the Minister of Mount Vernon at the 
 late residence of my Mother. I left after the service with 
 the Corpse, remained at Nashua for the night; the follow- 
 ing day we had a funeral service in St. Paul's Church 1 by 
 Mr. Watson, the minister of Mount Vernon; Dr. Warren 
 & our family were present and the body was deposited in 
 my tomb under the Church. 
 
 JULY I st . We have Pres f Tyler's Veto of little Tariff— 
 bad business. 22»< Amory & family left us to pass a few 
 days at Waltham; he is a great comfort to me. If he has 
 health he will be a useful man in society. A fine boy he 
 has. 23 rd . Went with Warren, Mary Ann, Harriet, Hetty, 
 Charles and Miss E. Warren to witness the putting on the 
 top stone of Bunker Hill Monument. Dr. Warren and 
 Miss Emily dined with us. 
 
 AUGUST y d . Played billiards with Col. Perkins as 
 l usual. $*K Passed an hour with Mr. Healy who is 
 about taking my pourtrait. 2 12 M . Bad state of affairs at 
 Washington, I think as well of Tyler as of the Whigs. II nd . 
 Went with Mr. Lawrence & Mr. Sturgis to see the Mayor 
 in relation to receiving Lord Ashburton. 2$ th . Lord Ash- 
 burton arrived from Springfield. Went to the railroad depot 
 with Mr. Lawrence and took him to the Tremont House. 
 26^. Went to the Navy yard & Mr. Cushing's with Lord 
 Ashburton & several other gentlemen; he is a very pleas- 
 
 1 Boston. 2 Owned by Mrs. L. M. Sargent, Pride's Crossing. 
 
1842] Diary 97 
 
 ant man. 27^. Went to Faneuil Hall with the Mayor to re- 
 ceive Lord Ashburton & dined with him at Mr. Lawrence's. 
 30^. M iss Mary Ann Stevens, my niece, has come to Boston 
 to get furniture. I gave her $ 1000.00. We hear from Wash- 
 ington that the Tariff is likely to pass (quite pleasing). 
 
 SEPTEMBER y< " Horatio" is in from Canton— 108 
 days. 12^. Mrs. A. sitting to Mr. Healy for Portrait. 
 20^. Went to see Healy's portrait of Mrs. Appleton; have 
 not given an opinion, and heard none but Mrs. A.'s. It is 
 a failure altogether in my opinion. 22 w < Left for Phila- 
 delphia with a large party. 24A Went to Pottsville with 
 Messrs. N. Appleton, P. T. Jackson, Sturgis, Mills, Sargent, 
 Thayer, Capt. Cooper & J. Codman — Visited Coal mines, 
 etc., much interested; fine Rail Road. 30^. Mr. Webster 
 rec d his friends at Faneuil Hall. He made a good speech, 
 crowded Hall; I liked what he said. 
 
 OCTOBER yd. Left for New York with Dr. Vinton, 
 W m F. Otis, George Dexter & Rev. Mr. Watson 
 to invite Dr. Eastburn to become Bishop. \ th . Went by ap- 
 pointment to see the Rev d Gent n who, in a business like 
 manner, accepted the call of the Diocese & Church. 16^. 
 The last a most miserable night to me. I was so much 
 troubled with pain in my face that I hardly got any sleep, 
 faint in the Morning and sent for Drs. Warren & Flagg; 
 applied poultices, but no relief from the pain. 19^. Dr. 
 Warren came to see me and recommended sending for Dr. 
 Flagg; he came and opened my Gum in a different place 
 
98 William Appleton [1842 
 
 from the former opening. 22*4 Passed a good night. I can 
 truly say I have reason to be grateful to God for this ill- 
 ness: it has withdrawn me from the business world, and 
 given a different current to my thoughts, the result delight- 
 ful. During the last summer at Brookline I had become 
 less thoughtful as to my duty to my Maker & my fellow 
 beings. On return to the City falling into the routine I left, 
 I found myself cold, wanting in sympathy, charity; in a 
 word, very unhappy, doubting if I had or ever have had 
 any real religion in me; but my confinement has led to 
 a new train of thought. I now feel happy & delighted, 
 strong in the faith that Christ died for us; the thought of 
 having it in my power to do what may lead others to be- 
 lieve in the Cross of Christ makes me happy even in pain 
 of body. God Almighty strengthen me in well doing! I^K 
 Mrs. Augustus Thorndike & Miss T. passed the evening 
 with us & Sir John Caldwell. 
 
 NOVEMBER 14A Had a conversation with Mr. A. 1 
 Lawrence as to his son's going into the house of 
 A. & A. Lawrence. I fear there is trouble in the business. 
 17^. Mr. Lawrence and our dear daughter Sarah left us. 
 25 th . Prayer Meeting at our House. 
 
 DECEMBER I st . Sunday School teachers at our 
 House. 8 th . St. Paul's Sewing Circle fair at our House. 
 of h . Letters have come from Frank, they gave us much 
 pleasure. \l th . Mr. Brimmer Elected Mayor. 13'*. Passed 
 
 1 Amos. 
 
1843] Diary 99 
 
 the afternoon with Amory; I am troubled with his cough 
 continuing. ij* A . Mrs. Appleton had a German named 
 Rackemann to exhibit our Piano to some half hundred 
 persons. 29^. Consecration of Assistant Bishop Eastburn; 
 there was a very large assemblage of Bishops, Clergy, and 
 laity. Bishop De Lancey 1 preached an excellent sermon. 
 We had fourteen besides our family at dinner; all went off 
 well. 
 
 1843 
 
 JANUARY 2 nd . The year commences with but mod- 
 erate prospects for business men, the overtrading of 
 the last few years is severely felt by all classes. Ships are 
 producing but moderate profits; most Voyages are ended 
 with loss; Merchandise of almost every description is be- 
 low what we have known it during my recollection. While 
 our Manufacturers are producing a large Amount of goods 
 at unprecedentedly low prices, they are making no profits, 
 yet I think the time is not far distant when there will be 
 a favourable change. Money is plenty, our debt (that is 
 to be paid abroad) is cancelled, and Heaven never sent a 
 more abundant Harvest. I do not look for sudden changes, 
 but they will come during the year. I am not a little anxious 
 for the return of health of my dear Son Amory. 26^. Our 
 dear Amory left us in the " Ariosto" for Cuba, with Tho s 
 C. Amory, Jr., and several other passengers. His health has 
 not been good for two or three months, having a slight 
 cough; we do not apprehend anything serious, yet I feel 
 
 1 Of Western New York. 
 
ioo William Appleton [1843 
 
 it very important that he should change the climate. 27^. 
 Went to Beverly to see Mrs. Appleton, the Wife of our 
 Uncle, Mr. Tho s Appleton, the sister of the late Nathan 
 Dane ; she was One hundred & One years Old Oct. last. She 
 has her faculties generally, but is quite deaf; she is quite 
 erect & moves with ease. 
 
 FEBRUARY fK At Mrs. Greene's to see a woman 
 Magnetized. 13^. Meeting Mass tts Mills Company; 
 I was chosen President, contrary to my wishes, but I was 
 led to believe it would be beneficial to my Interest & 
 others'. 15^. While sitting with my daughter Mrs. L. & 
 Mary Ann at Mr. Lawrence's, 1 who was present, Sarah said, 
 "Bishop Griswold is crossing to this side of the Square." 
 She had hardly finished the sentence till she said, "He has 
 fallen." I went immediately to him on the sidewalk oppo- 
 site Bishop Eastburn's; the lad who lives with Mr. Law- 
 rence was endeavouring to raise him; I assisted, when up he 
 walked with our aid a few steps; when he began to ascend 
 the steps, on the third step his strength failed him and he 
 for a moment rested h\s weight on us till others came, and 
 we carried him into Bishop Eastburn's study and laid him 
 on the floor. Drs. Jackson & Mason Warren were with us 
 immediately, but within ten minutes from the time he fell 
 he was dead and without a struggle. I then went with Dr. 
 Vinton to inform Mrs. Griswold; then made arrangements 
 to get the body removed to his House; which being done, 
 attended a very interesting discourse & prayers at our 
 
 1 In Pemberton Square. 
 
1843] Diary 101 
 
 Chapel with Dr. Vinton. 17^. Engaged in getting sub- 
 scriptions for Foreign Missions. I feel as much interest as 
 I almost ever did in making money; may my zeal last! 
 10 th . We hear from Amory at Havana; much improved; 
 he left us twenty-four days since, which is a short time. 
 21". Engaged in looking after Mrs. G.'s affairs, wife of our 
 late Bishop. Miss Julia Ward dined with us. 
 
 APRIL i*K At S. A. Appleton's, by request of Mr. 
 xjL Webster. Had from him a Statement of what was 
 thought would be the policy of the English Government 
 & of the Southern States, to do away with the protection on 
 our domestic industry. \l th . Our dear Frank came in upon 
 us at 7 A.M. from Canton. i^ d . I am much troubled by 
 a letter from Mr. T. C. Amory in relation to the illness of 
 Amory, but no particulars; I fear he has been bleeding at 
 the lungs; a purer man seldom lived or died. 24A I rec d 
 a letter from T. C. A. stating that our dear Amory was 
 quite ill from bleeding at the lungs. 26^. Rec d letter from 
 Amory, he thinks he shall be able to leave 1st May for 
 Charleston. I shall go on with his Wife to meet him. 29^. 
 Went to South Boston to call on Dr. and Mrs. Howe, late 
 Julia Ward. Meeting in relation to a new church: more 
 zeal than discretion. 
 
 MAY 6 th . Cold East wind, old fashioned Spring. icA 
 Sent Bishop Eastburn a letter stating I would give 
 the Missionary Society of this City ten thousand dollars 
 to build a place of Worship when they have procured a 
 
102 William Appleton [1843 
 
 location. My reason for doing this is that I believe the 
 poor are more susceptible of religious impressions than 
 those in the higher walks of life, therefore it is a good 
 charity. Why I give so large a sum is that without it I 
 doubt if the object would be accomplished, and I feel it 
 may be a bond of Union among our Clergy, who most 
 truly need it. 12^. Our daughter, Mrs. Lawrence, delivered 
 of a female child at 1 1 o'clock P.M., an event always ex- 
 citing, but more so with the first Child. i8 //z . Preparing for 
 to leave for Charleston. 23 rd . Left New York with Frank 
 for Phil a in boat. 24A Passed the Morning in Baltimore; 
 at four embarked for Norfolk. 25 th . We left for Welden. 
 26^. Left Welden 5 A.M., Arrived at Wilmington at 2 
 P.M., took Boat for Charleston. 27^. At nine o'clock ar- 
 rived at Mrs. Courtney's. Amory was much overcome at 
 meeting us; he looked better than I feared I should find 
 him. Many friends called on us; all very kind. 29^. I find 
 Amory very ill; I doubted if we should get him home; 
 I determined to endeavour to return by water. 
 
 JUNE 7^. Embarked in "Oceanus" with Amory, Frank, 
 T. C. Amory, and Ira. We got over the Bar at 2 P.M. 
 \$*K Landed at Falmouth after a very pleasant, comfort- 
 able passage; Went to Woods Hole and to Naushon 
 Island. i6 /y *. Left in steamer with our landlord — Mr. Web- 
 ster, a kind Man, from New Bedford, where Amory & 
 Myself remained over night. Frank & Tho s left for Boston 
 in a drenching rain. \~j th . Arrived in Boston at J^past ten, 
 took Amory to his House; not as strong as when we left 
 
1843] Diary 103 
 
 Charleston. Went with Mary Ann, Frank and others to 
 Bunker Hill, being one of the Committee of Arrange- 
 ments. I had a seat very near Mr. Webster; I was not as 
 much pleased with his effort as at the laying of the Cor- 
 ner Stone of the Monument. 21^. Mrs. Appleton, Amory, 
 his Wife & child took up their abode at Brookline. 22 w ^. 
 Amory rode twice this day. 23^. Our dear Amory grows 
 weaker. Arranged to have him let down from the piazza 
 to the Carriage; he is quite ill. 25^. Mr. Vinton came out 
 to see us; he prayed with Amory who has been delirious 
 for most of the day. lb th . Amory is not able to leave his 
 bed, dear fellow, he will not be long with us. 27^. Amory 
 quite feeble, mind wandering. This is the Anniversary of 
 the death of my dear Mother, who died one year since; 
 what will another year bring about? it is well we know not. 
 28^. Amory had a quiet night and through the day was 
 quite like himself; he spoke of the kindness he rec d from 
 those whom he met in Cuba; he wished them to know his 
 feelings by sending them something. 29^. At five o'clock 
 I went into dear Amory 's room and found him failing; at 
 six o'clock I called Dr. Warren, who told me he would 
 not continue long; at y 2 past seven the Spirit departed 
 without a struggle. He spoke to his Wife & parents, call- 
 ing them by their names shortly before he died, and had 
 apparently a consciousness to the last. Dr. Vinton came 
 out, passed some hours with us; we had prayers in the 
 room where his dear remains laid. My loss is no less than 
 a most amiable son, my companion for some years, my 
 friend, my adviser. At my strong solicitude he went in Jan- 
 
104 William Appleton [1843 
 
 uary to Cuba, & thought himself much improved until 1st 
 April, when after an excursion to the Country & Matan- 
 zas he was attacked with bleeding from the lungs. May 
 15th he left Havana in the Brig "Haynes" for Charleston 
 and arr d on the 22nd. On the 27th Frank & myself met 
 him there. We were most fortunate in having tried a voyage 
 and change of climate that we got him home to those he 
 most loved. God gave him, and a great blessing he has 
 been. God has taken him; I feel I can truly say, "Thy will 
 be done"; I pray I may continue to feel so. 
 
 JULY I st . This day we took the remains of our dear 
 Amory to St. Paul's Church, where we found a large 
 Congregation of our friends & acquaintances. The services 
 were performed by Dr. Vinton and the body placed in 
 our family tomb. We returned to Brookline, Mary (his 
 wife) with us. It was a solemn, trying day, but I think we 
 all showed as much fortitude as could be expected; no 
 one could doubt our feelings; all loved him most dearly. 
 3 r < I find I took cold yesterday & seldom suffered more 
 pain than the last night, principally in the side, much 
 pain in my Shoulder and Collar Bone which was broken 
 many years since. The trouble turns out to be the influenza 
 or Grip. I suffer much in my Muscles and Shoulder — 
 no fever. 10^. Mr. Wolcott called while we were at Break- 
 fast with a Newspaper stating the disaster of the Steamer 
 "Columbia." Went to Boston. Mrs. Lawrence had her first 
 daughter Christened, named for my Wife — Mary Ann 
 Appleton. I feel little Interest in business. 
 
1843] Diary 105 
 
 A UGUST \ th . Went to the City; had a very pleasant 
 Jl\. conversation with Mrs. William R. Gray; when I 
 communicate with such a person I feel as if I was not 
 worthy of the name of Christian. 14A Most delightful sea- 
 son, the Country never looked better, the grass as green 
 as in June. 28 M . Frank left us for Cambridge to attend the 
 Law School. 
 
 SEPTEMBER 8"*. Mary & Mr. Lyman dined with us 
 on their way from Nahant to Watertown. \l th . Mr. & 
 Mrs. Longfellow dined with us. 28 M . Went to Mt. Auburn 
 to select a lot with Mary & Mr. Lyman. 30^. Removed 
 to the City; every change brings dear Amory to my mind. 
 
 NOVEMBER 25^. I am thinking I should give some 
 money to Religious or benevolent purposes; if pos- 
 sible to strictly, unite the two. I am not likely to spend 
 my income this year. I have the Widows' Society under my 
 consideration. 
 
 DECEMBER 2 nd . Wrote a letter to the Trustees of 
 the Gen 1 Hospital enclosing ten thousand dollars for 
 the use (or the income of it) of patients in the McLean 
 Asylum whose friends cannot pay their expenses until re- 
 covered. I hope I shall continue to feel disposed to part with 
 my income; considering my property worth one million 
 of dollars. 
 
 [ Copy of Letter follow s~\ 
 
106 William Appleton [1843 
 
 Boston^ Nov. 30, 184.3 
 
 ?<? the trustees Mass tts Gen. Hospital: 
 
 Gent mn : Dr. Bell in his Annual Reports has alluded to 
 the premature withdrawal of patients from the Asylum be- 
 fore he considered them entirely recovered, although their 
 friends might so regard them. During my visits as a mem- 
 ber of a committee of your board I have known very in- 
 teresting cases where but with the dawn of the best of 
 God's blessings, subjects would have been taken from the 
 Asylum when it was at least probable that they would 
 have relapsed into that state in which life becomes a bur- 
 den. The proposed removals as stated by their friends were 
 with great regret, and for no other reason than that they 
 had not the means of longer defraying the expense. To 
 meet such extreme cases money has been given by friends 
 of the institution. Feeling confident that much benefit 
 would result from a moderate annual expenditure for the 
 relief of such cases, and being desirous that there should 
 be such a fund, the income of which should be thus ex- 
 pended under the advice of the Physician of the McLean 
 Asylum & discretion of the Trustees, I enclose a check for 
 ten thousand dollars for the commencement of a fund, with 
 the belief that its utility will lead to its increase, & thus 
 meet the wants of extreme cases when patients have been 
 under treatment & there is strong reason to believe a per- 
 manent cure may be effected, & the friends are not able 
 to defray the expense. I remain, yours very truly, 
 
 Wm. Appleton 
 
1843] Diary 107 
 
 19^. A long conversation (at his appointment) with Mr. 
 Webster, of the political affairs of this State ; he thinks 
 there must be a different course pursued with the Abo- 
 litionists, or the Whigs would be in minority; that the 
 Independent party, so called, would be the ruling party 
 of this State ere long. 25^. We are now brought nearly 
 to the close of another year, which has been an eventful 
 & trying one to our family. Our dear Amory one year 
 since was with us! Most truly can I say I think of him 
 with as much pleasure as I do of my living Children. I love 
 to think of his amiable manner, his kind checks when 
 I spoke suddenly; of his truly religious feelings; of our 
 walks, in business, at Church, our uniting in Publick & 
 private prayer. His death changed most of my business 
 plans; it was a sad event to part with such a son. Mr. 
 Oxnard has also been called suddenly from us. He was 
 a very warm friend of our dear Amory's, long connected 
 with me in business. We had the great satisfaction of going 
 to the Communion table this day with two of our sons 
 & two daughters; our eldest son Frank for the first time. 
 The place our dear Amory filled is vacant in my heart; 
 I loved him much; there was much in him to love and 
 adore; I look on his dear boy with much pleasure; he and 
 his mother are my pleasure and care. 29^. We have had 
 slop in the streets for the last week. 31^. Many, very many 
 have been my blessings. I feel that it is my duty to dis- 
 tribute my income, which is large, giving religious objects 
 the first thought, & uniting with others in promoting the 
 Arts and Sciences. I wish to show to myself & the World 
 
108 William Appleton [1843 
 
 that a man may be zealous in business, successful in his 
 undertakings without the desire of increasing an ample 
 fortune; able to strive to make money, to distribute the 
 same for the good of his fellow beings beyond his own 
 blood! I much fear I shall not hold out, but I pray it may 
 be so. I feel much pleasure in what I have done. My be- 
 setting sin is the desire of success, not so much for the 
 love of money, as for successful occupation. In other words, 
 it is Pride. My business has been prosperous, I think my- 
 self worth a million of dollars, independent of the profit 
 arising from our business of William Appleton & Co. We 
 have three ships now on voyages to Canton. 
 
 1844 
 
 JANUARY 7«*. Dr. Vinton gave us two excellent ser- 
 mons; in the morning "What is your life*? " He alluded 
 to Mr. Tuckerman and our dear Amory, spoke of his early 
 Piety, etc. 8^. Engaged in arranging our accounts & mak- 
 ing up Amory's Estate which proves to be about One Hun- 
 dred & sixteen thousand dollars, his own earnings. Called 
 at Mr. Lyman's; had a long pleasant talk in relation to 
 Mary & Master George L. Appleton. 10^. Fine sleigh- 
 ing, our young people rode in the Open Sleigh. 1 \ th . Our 
 family dined together, all present. Frank's vacation; very 
 pleasant to see them all together with so much means of 
 happiness. 12 nd . Our dear Mary Ann is suffering much 
 from a fall three days since down the chamber stairs; she is 
 unable to retain anything on her stomach, a teaspoonful 
 
1844] Diary 109 
 
 of brandy and water distresses her. We feel some anxiety 
 about her. 26 M . Mary Ann took two Tea spoons of Jelly 
 made without anything except Calves feet, salt and brandy. 
 
 FEBRUARY 1 \ th . For nearly two weeks I have been 
 confined to the House with a cold. Mary Ann has been 
 in her bed most of the same time with a dyspeptic turn 
 brought on by a fall. I do not regret the confinement; I feel 
 every time I am called from the business World as if I were 
 better for it. Frank is a great comfort to me, Warren all I 
 could wish, and Mary Ann, pleasant, good, for this world 
 or eternity. I am much gratified by the attentions of my 
 friends who come to visit me as if they valued me. Col. 
 Perkins has been often. 
 
 MARCH 5^. Mr. Lyman passed an hour with me, 
 took home the papers relating to our dear Amory's 
 estate. He appears to be well satisfied with all that has 
 been done; I fully believe that is the fact; they are a very 
 silent family but kind and well intentioned. I have been 
 most anxious to have all turn out well, and few transac- 
 tions of my life have given me more satisfaction than to be 
 able to see my dear son's wife and child independent from 
 his exertions ; he left them One hundred & fifteen thou- 
 sand dollars of his own earnings. \\ th . Rode to Medford 
 with Dr. Vinton to see the new ship " Hamlet" on her way 
 down the River. 19^. Letters from Canton to 24th Nov., 
 by "Lucas." 2o M . Meeting at George M. Dexter's office in 
 relation to a Missionary Chapel; the Bishop, Dr. Vinton, 
 
no William Appleton [^44 
 
 etc. 29^. "Hamlet" sailed for New Orleans. op th . Meet- 
 ing to organize the City Mission. I find such sensitiveness 
 among those who take part in this charity, that I almost 
 doubt if it will be useful, but He who directs all for good 
 will work all to His Glory; we have humbly to do what 
 we believe to be our part consistently. 
 
 A PRIL I st . Our dear Frank left us in the steamer " Cale- 
 JTm. donia" for Liverpool with Dr. Mason Warren. I am 
 quite disposed to have him do so as he requires a know- 
 ledge of the World more than books; I have great confi- 
 dence in his principles. 6 /A . Accounts from Canton to 1st 
 Jan. by "Helena." 8 M . Ship "Oxnard" cleared; her first 
 voyage for New Orleans. 
 
 MAY 30^. Temperance celebration; some forty thou- 
 sand persons collected from this and other states to 
 celebrate the Temperance reform. 
 
 JUNE 12^. Meeting Mass. Episcopal Convention. 14A 
 They got through, but a poor display of Christian prac- 
 tice. 30^. Dr. Boone, Missionary to China, preached at St. 
 Paul's. I feel much confidence of the success of that mission. 
 
 JULY 19^. Mr. Greene and our eldest daughter became 
 engaged to join in Holy Matrimony; I think well of 
 him, but I feel very little pleasure in the engagements of 
 my daughters; I fear too much for them, yet I know it is all 
 for good. 20^. Went to Boston as usual, and received many 
 
1844] Diary 111 
 
 congratulations on the engagement of Mary Ann. op th . En- 
 gaged in preparing the "Loo Choo's" papers & "Tasso's." 
 
 AUGUST i*. "Loo Choo" sailed for Canton; "Tasso" 
 JljL for the Pacific. $ f K Went into town early to attend to 
 the "Tasso," she having returned from coming in contact 
 with another Vessel; found the damage slight. 
 
 SEPTEMBER \&K Met Mr. Upjohn in relation to 
 building the Chapel. 1 \ th . Francis Henry's twenty-first 
 birthday. Mason Warren, Wife & Miss Warren dined with 
 us. 18^. Great preparations for the Political convention 
 which takes place tomorrow. 19^. Went early to the City, 
 passed the day and night. The show was handsome with 
 much spirit, yet I think we shall have Polk for President; 
 I fear so. 24^. Met the Selectmen of Roxbury in relation 
 to changing the Road to Mr. Lowell's. 30^. Engaged in 
 making arrangements to go to Phil d as a delegate to the 
 Gen 1 Convention. 
 
 OCTOBER 1*. Left Boston with Mary Ann, Mr. 
 Greene & Miss Warren. We had regular sittings dur- 
 ing the mornings until three o'clock, for the first & second 
 weeks, after which we met in the evenings during the sit- 
 ting of the Convention. Mrs. Appleton & William Burn- 
 ham joined us, Dr. Vinton likewise made one of our party. 
 We were very pleasantly situated and passed our time 
 pleasantly. We returned to Boston on the 23rd; found 
 all well. 25 th . Mr. Upjohn came to conclude contract for 
 
112 William Appleton [1844 
 
 Chapel. Much to our annoyance the contractors have be- 
 come Millerites; left their business, given up all work. 
 
 NOVEMBER \ th . We are quite engaged in making 
 arrangements for Mary Ann's Wedding. $ th . The 
 birthday of our third daughter, and much more interest- 
 ing as the Marriage day of our eldest daughter, which was 
 solemnized at St. Paul's Church by Dr. Vinton at yi past 
 four o'clock, with the church well filled with spectators, 
 among them many of our friends. We returned to our 
 House, dined; a family party with some in addition num- 
 bering thirty-six. I feel that I am parting with a daughter 
 of great piety and good sense, and quite important as an 
 example to her younger sisters. She has always been obe- 
 dient to my wishes, kind to all about her, and truly de- 
 voted to the cause of Religion, I shall feel her absence at 
 our morning and evening exercises; she has taken Amory's 
 place with me in some respects. May God bless & support 
 her under all trials. j t/l . Warren left us for Schenectady; 
 he has made himself very dear to me by his good conduct 
 and very kind disposition. We are yet much excited as to 
 the result of the Election. 8^. All our hopes for electing 
 Mr. Clay have vanished by the returns from New York. 
 I went this morning with my son Frank & Dr. Vinton to 
 Mount Auburn where we committed to the tomb, being 
 taken from St. Paul's, the remains of her who gave me 
 birth, my dear Son Amory, and that of our infant child Ed- 
 ward. It was like again parting with them. I felt it much, 
 very much. 
 
1845] Diary 113 
 
 DECEMBER \2 th . There was a northeast storm with 
 ( snow last night. A ship from Calcutta was totally lost 
 offour light House on Point Allerton. 26^. Not quite well, 
 I fancy from taking Champagne yesterday. 31". Warren, 
 our second son, has become engaged to marry Miss War- 
 ren, one of the best women within my knowledge ; the 
 only regret is his forming an engagement so soon. 
 
 1845 
 
 JANUARY v f . The year commences with a bright day, 
 very mild. Went in the afternoon with Col. Perkins to 
 Mr. Alger's foundry; we saw there cast a cannon said to 
 weigh twenty-five Tons. ty h . Anniversary of our Wedding 
 day, thirty years since. 18^. More ice than I ever saw on 
 our sidewalks ; the trees look beautifully. 20^. Dr. Putnam 
 of Roxbury & Mr. N. Bowditch dined with us. We went 
 with Dr. Potter to hear Mr. Webster before the Rail Road 
 Committee of the Legislature. 
 
 MARCH 4 M . The conversation is of the Annexation 
 of Texas. My feeling is within ten years we shall 
 think it a blessing instead of a curse. 6 t/l . Dined with Mrs. 
 Amory, my Wife's birthday; her mother is bright but not 
 long for this world. 24^. Laying the Corner Stone of St. 
 Stephen's Chapel by Bishop Eastburn. Large assemblage 
 of persons, very interesting. Meeting Proprietors St. Paul's 
 Church; very Harmonious. 
 
ii4 William Appleton [^45 
 
 A PRIL 4^. We have accounts by "Natches" from Can- 
 il ton, 78 days passage. 1 \ th . Family at dinner includ- 
 ing Miss Warren. 19^. Meeting in relation to the Sufferers 
 in Pittsburg. 
 
 MAY $ th . Left for Schenectady. 6^. Found a wel- 
 come reception; Warren pleasantly situated. 28^. 
 Election Day, so called; there is a general turnout of 
 Militia. 
 
 JULY \ th . Our Servants and children went to Boston 
 to see the fireworks. §*K This morning we were in- 
 formed by note from Mr. Lawrence that Sarah has a sec- 
 ond daughter; we are all quite happy. A word as to my 
 health. When the warm weather came I found myself 
 troubled with flatulence which increased till I found I must 
 make a change. Dr. Warren said he believed if I would 
 confine myself to Bread, meat & Water I should correct 
 the difficulty. I commenced that night, took y 2 tumbler of 
 water (without ice), a piece of coarse bread made of the 
 whole of wheat for my supper. In the morning I took cold 
 water, beefsteak & coarse bread for breakfast; at dinner 
 the same & have continued that system of diet, only chang- 
 ing occasionally for mutton at dinner, to this time, and I 
 feel as well as I did six months since. 9^. Funeral proces- 
 sion in honour of General Jackson. 
 
1845] Diai 7 115 
 
 A UGUST \ th . Sat to Mr. Cheney 1 in the morning. 
 jlV 18^. Went to Lowell with Mr. Pakenham, Her Maj- 
 esty's Minister to this Country, Mr. Mclvers, Col. Perkins 
 and Mr. R. C. Winthrop;a very pleasant day & time we 
 had. 19^. We are considerably disturbed by the apprehen- 
 sion of War with Mexico. Played Billiards with Col. Per- 
 kins. Still troubled with dispepsy. 26^. Went with Mr. 
 Otis to see Mr. Forbes' Ship "Massachusetts" having a 
 steam propeller to aid in making her passage; I doubt the 
 success of the enterprise. 
 
 SEPTEMBER 16^. Rec<* a letter saying my niece, 
 Mrs. Stowell, was quite ill. 17^. Started 6 o'clock for 
 Fitzwilliam; arrived at 3 P.M.; found My Niece quite 
 low, I think it possible she may recover. i8 /7/ . Returned to 
 Boston to dine. 
 
 OCTOBER g //l . Our son J. Warren married to Emily 
 Warren; we are fully satisfied with his choice; she is 
 a fine woman with excellent principles and good disposi- 
 tion. I think his opportunities for happiness are as good as 
 almost any young Man; his education has been neglected, 
 but he appears to be disposed to correct the defect. His 
 principles we believe to be good; his appearance and man- 
 ners quite in his favour; they will have the good wishes and 
 Prayers of many. 13^. Went to Waltham with Mrs. Apple- 
 ton and found Mrs. Greene had been delivered of a Son at 
 
 1 Owned by W. A. Lawrence, hanging at 122 Commonwealth Avenue. 
 
n6 William Appleton [^45 
 
 5 o'clock P.M.; we have much to be grateful for. \b th . 
 Warren & wife left in Ship "Burgundy" for Havre in good 
 spirits. I felt much in parting with them, yet I am satisfied 
 it is right they should go. 19^. Put in the Box at church 
 five Hundred dollars for Domestic Missions. May God 
 bless the means and give a better heart to the contribu- 
 tors. 26^. I fear I part with money more because I feel it a 
 duty than from a higher motive ! I pray sincerely for bet- 
 ter and more elevated motives. 31^. Col. Everest of Her 
 Majesty's Artillery at dinner; he is rough, but an intelli- 
 gent man. 
 
 NOVEMBER 14A We had a party at dinner, Judge 
 Woodbury, Mr. Webster, Mr. Everett, Mr. Win- 
 throp, Mr. N. Appleton, Mr. A. Lawrence, Judge Shaw, 
 Mr. Sturgis, F. C. Gray and Mr. Sears; very pleasant. \b th . 
 This day brings to an end my fifty-eighth year, I cannot 
 realize that I am this old. I do not feel that I am an old 
 man, yet I have much to admonish me, in the use of 
 Glasses, loss of memory, and even in my limbs when rap- 
 idly going up Stairs. I have had very imperfect health yet 
 I have generally been able to direct and attend to business. 
 I feel the responsibility I have on me in taking a stand as 
 a Christian ; that I am looked on by some of my friends, 
 doubting whether I shall adhere to my professions. I find 
 nothing like intrusion, but something like doubting in 
 their minds as to the reality of the change. Rec d presents 
 from my Grandsons: a locket with his Hair from the one, 
 
 6 from Mr. George "The Sermon on the Mount" beauti- 
 
1845] Diary 117 
 
 fully got up. Fine day. 27^, thanksgiving Day. Most Vio- 
 lent rain. Went to Trinity Church, where we solemnly 
 dedicated our Grandson, J. S. Copley, to Almighty God. 
 My daughter, Mrs. Lawrence, and myself stood as spon- 
 
 sors. 
 
 DECEMBER 2»< Attended the funeral of Mrs. Ack- 
 erman, who has suffered much the last year. She was 
 in our family during the births of most of our Children; 
 an Excellent IVoman. 3 r < Cold, unpleasant day; went to see 
 Mrs. Ackerman's mother, out most of the morning. Getting 
 over my cold. \ th . President's Message is published this 
 morning; I do not feel that we are to get into a War in 
 relation to Oregon. I believe they will change the Tariff 
 materially, but not eventually to injure the Interests of 
 the Cotton manufacturers. \o th . Attended the opening of 
 the House of Refuge. I have had & have now doubts as 
 to the success of the establishment, but finding for years 
 there were persons who fully believed in the utility of the 
 place, more than two years ago I began a subscription; it 
 was not found to meet the patronage of the publick, but 
 eventually they got fifteen thousand dollars. I then ex- 
 tended my subscription to five thousand dollars. The pres- 
 ent building has been erected by my movement, but I can- 
 not say I have acted from any high motives, but should 
 it please God to bless the Institution and use me as an in- 
 strument, the honour be to Him, and to Him alone. I felt 
 humbled at seeing so much interest shown by others this 
 morning and finding myself so little affected. Oh, may my 
 
n8 William Appleton [1845 
 
 life that remains be such as to deserve the commendation 
 which I undeservedly have shown me. 12 th . Meetings, 
 Nashua, Jackson & Salmon Falls Companies; large Profits 
 and good dividends. 19^. The Oregon Question looks bad 
 on both sides, but will be settled without War. 31^. This 
 brings to a close another year. One son married with our 
 entire approbation, another engaged to a lovely woman. 1 
 
 1846 
 
 THIS commences a new year, the events of which are 
 wisely out of our sight. In the business world there 
 is much agitation as to War with England; I do not much 
 fear it. 
 
 JANUARY 6^. Engaged in getting up 50^ for Mr. 
 Webster. Miss Harriet had a party of young people 
 to the extent of sixty or eighty; it was said to go off well 
 — a poor business; I do not like it. 28^. Annual Meeting 
 Mass tts Gen 1 Hospital Corporation. 2 
 
 FEBRUARY yd m We hear of the loss of our Ship 
 "Hamlet"; I find myself very much discomposed by 
 the loss of property ; I have less controul over my feelings 
 than I should have supposed until tried. io M . Meeting at 
 the Bishop's in relation to a Theological Seminary; I had 
 a long talk with Mr. Mason in relation to it. 14^. Frank, 
 Harriet, with some twenty friends went to Mr. Greene's, 
 
 l Miss Georgiana Silsbee. 2 He was President of the Board of Trustees. 
 
1846] Diary 119 
 
 Waltham, in the evening; fine sleighing. lj*K Master 
 Charles had a sleighing party. 
 
 MARCH 12"*. Sale of Phillips Estate in this Street. 
 Lots on Beacon St., 180 feet depth, sold for four dol- 
 lars the square foot. 30^. Fine bright day. Went to Salem 
 to attend the Wedding of our now eldest Son, Frank ; we 
 are quite satisfied with the connection; we think his choice 
 a judicious one; a Woman of good temper, kind in her 
 feelings, and a fair share of understanding; their prospects 
 are as good as almost any. May He who directs all give 
 them Grace to follow that course that will give Peace in 
 Time, & Happiness in Eternity. 31^. Passed the night at 
 Mr. N. Silsbee, Jr.'s. 
 
 APRIL 12^, Easter Sunday. On my knees did I sup- 
 jl\. plicate my God this morning that I might through 
 His grace be enabled to give my mind to His service this 
 day. 20^. We have much pleasure in the arrival of Warren 
 & his wife in the "Caledonia" from Liverpool. 2i J/ . Went 
 to Brookline with Col. Tod, ambassador to St. Petersburg. 
 
 MAY lX Mrs. Appleton gave a party for Frank, War- 
 ren and their Wives; about sixty persons; called 
 pleasant; a Band of musick, but there was very little plea- 
 sure to me, or, as I could learn, to any one else — all tired. 
 y d . "Cambria" Ashore on Cape Cod. 12^. Engaged in 
 making Preparation for our contemplated journey to the 
 South. 13^. Left for New York, via Norwich. 15^. Arriv d 
 
120 William Appleton [1846 
 
 at Philadelphia to dine. 16^. Arrived at Washington at 
 seven o'clock; found ourselves well located. 18^. Went 
 with Mrs. Webster & our Ladies to the Capitol, House 
 and Senate; rode to Navy Yard, called on Gen 1 Hender- 
 son. 19^. At the President's in the evening; Poor concern. 
 10 th . Party at Madam Calderon's, formerly Miss Inglis; 
 quite fashionable. 1VK Went to the Races, dined at Mr. 
 Webster's; small party. II nd . Party at Mrs. Grinnell's, 
 quite pleasant, many of our acquaintances there. 23^. 
 Went down the River in Steamer "Mass tts "; dined with 
 Mr. Pakenham. 25 th . Left Washington at 6 A.M. for Phik 
 26^. We have had warm summer weather, strawberries 
 in abundance for ten days past; dined at Bishop Potter's. 
 30^. Arrived in Boston, found all well. 31^. Took Capt. 
 Eliot and Lady to Church. Our son Frank confirmed with 
 10 others. 
 
 JUNE 3 r < Went to Cambridge to see Mr. Greenleaf in 
 relation to Seminary. 9^. All dined at Brookline; rather 
 in confusion, but all will come right. \l th . The Conven- 
 tion closed its session with my proposition for a Divinity 
 School; it was well received; but whether it will be car- 
 ried into effect is doubtful in my mind. I think much 
 good would be derived by the Institution, but God will 
 devise all for good. 
 
 JULY I st . Engaged most of the morning on business 
 of Charles River Bridge. 28^. Much doubt & excite- 
 ment as to the passing of the Tariff bill of Mr. McKay. 
 
1846] Diary 121 
 
 30^. We have accounts of the passage of the tariff; I 
 think it will do less mischief than is expected; Carpets & 
 Muslin-de-Laines will be partially given up and some 
 fine, plain and printed cottons will be less made in this 
 Country. 
 
 SEPTEMBER 26'*. Went to meet Mr. Upjohn at 
 the Purchase Street Chapel. I find very little interest 
 others take in this affair; I fear I have less zeal than when 
 I commenced it, yet, if I am not made better by it, others 
 may be. 
 
 OCTOBER 5"*. St. Stephen's Chapel Consecrated. 
 The services were very appropriate ; House quite full. 
 It was an interesting day to me, the finishing of a work 
 which had been a long time in progress. I feel that I have 
 made an additional pledge to live more nearly to the re- 
 ligion I profess. \$ th . Our Ship "Cygnet" sailed for Bata- 
 via. 23^. Breakfasted with Mr. F. C. Gray and a party of 
 gentlemen. 
 
 NOVEMBER fK Attended the funeral of my friend, 
 D. L. Pickman, at Salem; a man of strong mind and 
 high honour; a Merchant of the first class — much esteemed. 
 \t th . I am this day sixty years old; little have I done in pre- 
 paration for Eternity; at times I think myself stationary in 
 religious character. I trust I feel more dependence on my 
 M aker. I verily belie ve I ought to prevent my children going 
 as much in the World as they do, but sometimes I think it 
 
122 William Appleton [1846 
 
 may be because I have lost a desire to do that, I feel they 
 should not, and again that by indulgence I may retain their 
 confidence. Mrs. Appleton quite ill with a bilious turn. 
 17^. Mrs. Appleton in her chamber until 8 P.M., when she 
 dressed herself to receive her Company which consisted of 
 some two Hundred. The number invited was nearly eight 
 hundred; many refused on account of the season for parties 
 not having commenced. It was said to be very pleasant; 
 all went off well. They began to assemble at y 2 past nine 
 & retired at y 2 past One O'clock. i8 M . Mrs. Appleton in 
 her room, but better; all tired out from late Hours. 
 
 DECEMBER 8^. Attended the lecture of Mr. Agassiz 
 with Bishop Potter, who has come to pass some weeks 
 with us. 1 10^. Warren Club at my house, about thirty-five 
 persons present; very pleasant. II nd . Went to Plymouth, 
 dined with a party of about ninety Gent mn from this city; 
 Mr. Webster presided; an interesting day. It carries us 
 back to the landing of the Colony from which the best 
 results of the settlement of the New World are exhibited. 
 25^. Warren and wife are blessed with a fine daughter; now 
 located, 2 as are all our children, quite near us. 30^. Mrs. 
 Sears gave a large Ball. Clarkson Potter passed the night 
 with us. 31^. Went to Lowell with Mr. J. A. Lowell & 
 Mr. Sami Cabot on business of uniting Mass tts & Prescott 
 Companies. The past year our business has been success- 
 ful; retaining my capital entire, I have Built or finished a 
 Chapel, which, with the endowment I shall add will amount 
 
 1 To deliver a course of lectures. 3 At 76 Beacon Street. 
 
1847] Diary 123 
 
 to more than twenty-six thousand dollars. Placed twenty- 
 five thousand dollars as a fund, if accepted, to commence 
 a Theological Seminary. Made some provisions for my sis- 
 ters, and distributed freely with others of my income, which 
 has been more than One Hundred Thousand dollars. 
 
 1847 
 
 JANUARY v f . We had at dinner all our Children and 
 as many of our Grand Children as were old enough to 
 sit at table. I presented my children, who are of age, with 
 five thousand dollars of stock, requesting them to use the 
 income for charitable purposes, telling them that I should 
 give to the Brothers and sisters, including Geo. L. Appleton, 
 when they arrived at the age of twenty-one years, a like 
 sum, should I live so long, and if otherwise I should pro- 
 vide that it be furnished them. Small party at our House 
 at evening. 14A Bishop Potter gave his last lecture for the 
 season. With much regret do we part with him. I do not 
 know the other gentleman we should willingly admit as one 
 of our family; he is all we could desire as a companion and 
 his example is such as we should strive to follow. 30^. Mrs. 
 Appleton and children went to see the exhibition of the 
 children dancers. 
 
 FEBRUARY 4A Pleasant party at Col. Perkins'; pri- 
 vate theatricals by the family. 13^. Mrs. A. & Mrs. 
 Burnham with the children went to see the dancing chil- 
 dren from Italy. 15^. Meeting at Mr. Mills' in relation to 
 
124 William Appleton [1847 
 
 the Irish & Scotch famine. i8 M . Meeting at Faneuil Hall, 
 very fully attended, for the relief of the sufferers in Ireland. 
 10 th . Steamer arriv d from Liverpool; anxiously looked for. 
 We find less news than we expected: there will be much 
 distress before July among the lower classes, and what is 
 to be a permanent remedy is difficult to imagine. 
 
 MARCH 2 nd , Fine sleighing, all in motion. 7^. Com- 
 munion at Church; remained at home on account 
 of cold in the afternoon. Dr. Warren recommended Bath, 
 mustard poultices, &c. I remained in the House without 
 much change until Friday night when I was attacked with 
 a pain while in bed, very severe in my left side ; we soon 
 determined to call the servants and send for Dr. Mason 
 Warren. It turned out to be a regular attack of pleurisy, 
 but by blisters, etc., very little fever continued after the pain 
 subsided. The following Wednesday Mrs. Appleton's good 
 Mother had another attack of apoplexy, and died Wednes- 
 day evening, 24th, without a struggle. She was entombed 
 on Saturday, 27th. I rode to the House to take a last look on 
 her whom I much loved and respected, but I was not suffi- 
 ciently well to attend the services at Trinity. Mrs. Amory, 
 the only daughter of the late Gov. Sullivan, died at the Age 
 of seventy-four. A Lady of much energy, of character, com- 
 manding in her appearance, of a strong mind, and I believe 
 from early life governed by truly Christian principles. My 
 intercourse with her from the death of Mr. Amory, for nearly 
 twenty years, was very intimate; we always had a good 
 understanding; she expected frankness and received the 
 
1847] Diary 125 
 
 truth, whether pleasant or otherwise, with courtesy. She 
 often spoke with gratitude of my services to her & her fam- 
 ily, and much overrated my kindness of heart. She left with 
 her Will a most affectionate letter for me, written some 
 years since, to be delivered with one from Mr. Wm. Sulli- 
 van, 1 both of which I shall continue to value much, as evi- 
 dence of their good opinion. 
 
 APRIL 1 o th . Accounts of Capture of Vera Cruz and death 
 -ZjL of Capt. Vinton. 2 I st . Was very much provoked with 
 Robert, my servant, and spoke very roughly to him. I took 
 occasion to say to him that I made a mistake in thus speak- 
 ing, and I felt better satisfied with myself for so doing. 
 
 M 
 
 AY 16^. Captain Forbes returned from the Mission 
 of Mercy to Ireland; he was absent seven weeks. 
 
 JUNE 2 nd . Our family removed to Brookline; apple 
 trees in full bloom. \o th . Passed the morning at the 
 Convention of our Diocese; much pleased with Mr. Ed- 
 son's report on Church extension; the business conducted 
 with more regularity than usual. \2 th . Harriet had some 
 of her friends at tea & in the evening, consisting of the 
 Misses Lyman, Prescott, Peabody, Gray, etc. \"] th . Steamer 
 arrived. Brought the word of the total loss of the " Mary 
 Ellen." 20f d . Party of Ladies, Gen mn & Children at Mr. 
 Greene's, Waltham, to meet Tom Thumb. Very pleasant, 
 delightful afternoon. 2 8 M . Frank came to Brookline; I can- 
 
 1 Her brother. 
 
126 William Appleton [^47 
 
 not understand his apparent absence of mind, I trust there 
 is nothing essentially wrong. This is a day of meditation 
 with me, the Anniversary of the death of my dear Amory, 
 never to be forgotten, yet I think of him with more plea- 
 sure than I would or could wish to express. 29^. The " Hors- 
 burgh" sailed for Canton, I doubt if she will make any 
 money. op th . Pres* Polk arriv d in Boston; cold Northeast 
 wind with rain. 
 
 JULY \o th . Meeting of directors of Salmon Falls Com- 
 pany as to building a new mill ; I feel we shall regret 
 so doing within one year. 13^. Mrs. Appleton and my- 
 self left Brookline for Saratoga (via Boston). At Newton, 
 Madam Greene and Mrs. Charles Amory joined us. We ar- 
 rived at Springfield in a Thunder squall. Col. Perkins and 
 Party arrived in the evening. 14A We left at ^past eight; 
 we found in the cars Dr. and Mrs. Jackson in addition to 
 our party of yesterday, consisting of Mr. Jos. Tilden, Mrs. 
 Torrey, her son & wife. We found it pleasant but quite 
 cool crossing the mountains; dined at Troy & arrived at 
 Saratoga at six o'clock. We found excellent rooms reserved 
 for us, the House well filled with company. I find several 
 acquaintances, among them Comm. Morris, Dr. Dun- 
 can, Mr. H. Cabot, Mr. Wm. Boott. 16^. The time passes 
 pleasantly, but with much sameness: drink Water, eat 
 Breakfast, lounge, talk, dine, hear the Band play, take tea, 
 go to the drawing room to see the young people dance & 
 end the day. Thus the days passed until Friday, 23rd, when 
 we left; dined at Albany and slept at Springfield; the fol- 
 
1847] Diary 127 
 
 lowing morning took the Cars; separated from our trav- 
 elling companions at Newton, got home at two O'clock. 
 Frank dined with us. 27^. Charles' birthday. 
 
 AUGUST 2«< Went with Miss Hetty & Miss Eliot 
 jLjL to Lynn, then to Nahant. Frank & family removed 
 there for a season, I trust he may be benefited; his absence 
 of mind is sorely distressing and to me alarming. 8^. I am 
 thinking of providing funds to build a Church at Shanghai. 
 
 SEPTEMBER 3^. Went to Brookfield, a pleasant 
 visit to the place of my nativity; much pleased with 
 my reception by Mr. Snell; dined with him, saw Mr. Gil- 
 bert. of h . Went to Lynn & Salem, dined with Mr. Silsbee; 
 found Georgiana and Master Frank well. 13^. Much af- 
 fected by the death of my friend P. T. Jackson, one of the 
 most influential men in our community. 
 
 NOVEMBER. i". Throatquite inflamed, breast sore; 
 in the House. Read in the life of Mr. Simeon; it is 
 refreshing to find good & eminent men doubting & almost 
 desponding at the wickedness of their hearts. \VK F. H. 
 Appleton, Jr., Christened with seven other children; the 
 God Parents His Father, Mother and myself. A pleasant 
 party at Frank's in the evening. 16^. I have often thought 
 to myself, Why am I left and others strong & young called 
 to their account? At times I have been led to the feeling 
 it was that I might protect my now departed Mother, my 
 sisters, and to be useful to others with whom I was con- 
 
n8 William Appleton [^47 
 
 nected; I trust my life has been extended that I might 
 become more fitted for His Service on earth & prepared 
 for another existence. 10 th . Mr. G. sent for me to come and 
 see him; he informed me that his brother was embarrassed. 
 I think it is a very bad business, that Mr. G. will lose half 
 of his property. I fear if I were to lose my property I 
 should not behave like a man or a Christian. 23^. I feel 
 much for Mr. G.; much engaged in his affairs and I trust 
 I shall get him out with 15022 & House. Went to see 
 Laura Bridgman. op th . Mr. & Mrs. Webster, Mr. & Mrs. 
 Tucker, Mr. & Mrs. Coolidge, Mr. & Mrs. F. C. Lowell, 
 Mr. & Mrs. Greene, Mrs. Rotch, Mrs. A. A. Lawrence, 
 Mr. N. Appleton, Mr. C. G. Loring, Mr. F. C. Gray, Mr. 
 Paige and Dr. Scoresby dined with us; pleasant Party. 
 
 DECEMBER 1". Went with Dr. Scoresby to hear Mr. 
 Sturgis lecture on the Indians of North America. 
 25^, Christmas. My friend, Hon ble Sam 1 Hubbard, died 
 the last night; he was among my early acquaintances in 
 Boston; he was one of our Groomsmen. 
 
 1848 
 
 JANUARY i". Most of our family came to dine & 
 some young persons at Evening. In commencing a 
 new year we look back on the past. I have had less busi- 
 ness, less perplexities, consequently less trials of my tem- 
 per; my charities have not been large. My income much 
 less than for some years, yet I could well spare more but 
 
1848] Diary 129 
 
 the objects that come in my way have not been such as 
 to produce the strongest Interest. I have sent the means 
 to build a Church in China, 1 five thousand dollars. I dis- 
 tributed five Hundred Copies of the memoir or life of Mr. 
 Simeon, an eminent Divine of Cambridge, England. It is 
 my intention to close my commercial affairs as our ships 
 arrive. It might be for my good to have the employment 
 and I might be useful to others; on the other hand, I may 
 be in the way of others and should I be called suddenly 
 it would leave my family many perplexities. \2 th . Mis- 
 sionary sermon at St. Paul's Church — not well attended. 
 It is very strange there should be so little interest in Mis- 
 sions. 17^. Went to see Dr. Warren & Dr. Bell as to Frank. 
 They with Mason determined that no time should be lost 
 in sending him to the Hospital; accordingly I made ar- 
 rangements for so doing; in the Afternoon I went to his 
 House with Dr. Mason Warren who told him the deci- 
 sion of his Medical Advisers; he said he did not agree 
 with them, but when I made a strong appeal to his kind 
 feelings, he said he would go if I wished it. He went very 
 quietly, after bidding his wife goodbye with a kiss. I have 
 had few or no more trying scenes in the course of my 
 life. Oh, that I could with truth say, Lord, Thy Will be 
 done ! Dr. Warren thinks by attention to his diet he will re- 
 cover. 19^. Went to see dear Frank and found him comfort- 
 able and contented, which is a great gratification to us all. 
 
 1 On a picture of this Chapel now owned by Mrs. Frederic Cunningham is writ- 
 ten: "First Epis. Missionary Chapel erected in China by the American Board of 
 Missions at the expense of the Hon. W m Appleton. Shanghai, July, 1852." 
 
130 William Appleton [1848 
 
 10 th . Find myself now confined to the house with a cold 
 taken going with my dear Frank to Somerville, much dis- 
 tressed in mind at the separation from my now eldest son. 
 l\ th . Georgiana had a long letter from Frank; he said he 
 expected his Father to see him, all that he knew that was 
 good he got from him. 
 
 FEBRUARY ir«*. Dr. Warren and some Gent* at 
 my House in relation to the musick in St. Paul's; 1 
 poor concern for me to be in; no good from it. 15^. Went 
 to the Hospital and found Frank quiet and contented. 
 God be Praised. II nd , We have a Rumor of Peace with 
 Mexico, I fancy it is well founded. 28 M . Mr. The Lyman 
 gave a Ball at Tremont House, Harriet & Master Charles 
 of the party. 
 
 MARCH \ofK We have accounts of Revolution in 
 France; what will be the result no one can tell; 
 my feeling is, it will be like that of 1830. 27^. The steamer 
 arrived with the accounts of a Republican Government in 
 France. 
 
 A PRIL 8^. Went to visit our dear Frank, I see no im- 
 ii provement; Dr. Bell says he cannot find the cause 
 of the Malady. \$ th . Went with Mrs. Appleton to see our 
 dear Frank. He was pleased to see us; it is heartrending 
 
 1 The story in the family is that Mr. Appleton cared so little for music that he 
 had been known to put cotton wool in his ears when he escorted his wife to a 
 concert. 
 
1848] Diary 131 
 
 to feel that he is separated from us. 2o //; . Went to Somer- 
 ville this morning, much encouraged as to Frank; Dr. Bell 
 agreed to go a journey with him. 
 
 M 
 
 AY 29^. Mrs. A. A. L.'s Child Christened Amory 
 Appleton; Parents & myself Sponsors. 
 
 JUNE 8 th . We hear of the Nomination of Gen 1 Taylor 
 by Telegraph; we are disappointed by finding we do 
 not get Mr. Lawrence 1 nominated for Vice-Pres*. i\ th . 
 Georgiana and her little boy left us for Salem. We think 
 highly of her & the Child. 27^. Went to North Brookfield 
 to attend the celebration of the fiftieth Anniversary of Dr. 
 Snell's Ministry; a truly Pious, useful man. I was very 
 much gratified; a very large assemblage, a good discourse 
 & fine musick. Mrs. Cary, formerly Lydia Hall, the only 
 remaining Communicant with my Father, Present. 
 
 JULY "j th . Our Son W m 's Wife was confined yesterday 
 with Son and Daughter. \i th . Steamer arriv d with sad 
 accounts from Paris. 29^. Went to Waltham; I find Mr. 
 Greene very much troubled with weakness in his limbs, 
 a very great change for the worse within two weeks; he 
 thinks it the effect of drinking water drawn through lead 
 pipes; it is possible he is right; his Physicians encourage 
 the belief; it would be cruel to remove the delusion, but 
 my fear & belief is that it is a disease of the nerves and 
 that he will be a Cripple the rest of life. 31^. Mrs. Greene 
 
 1 Hon. Abbott Lawrence. 
 
132 William Appleton [1848 
 
 had her infant daughter Christened — named Elizabeth 
 Clark. 
 
 SEPTEMBER 28^. After Attending to my usual busi- 
 ness I left for home, intending to visit my son at Som- 
 
 erville. In passing rapidly through in my buggy 
 
 or Carryall, over a mound of earth where the street had 
 been opened, the bolt that connected the front wheels of 
 the Carriage with the after gave way; I was thrown over 
 the dashboard into the street, and received a blow on my 
 back which for a time appeared to have sent the breath 
 from my body; I soon so far recovered as to get into a 
 Carriage and was carried to our residence in Brookline, 
 where I suffered much; but with kind and skilful atten- 
 tion most of the time twice a day from Dr. Warren for four 
 weeks I so far recovered as to ride to Boston and was soon 
 able to attend to my usual occupation. 
 
 OCTOBER 14A Hon. Jeremiah Mason died, much 
 Respected for his superior talents. I felt his death 
 much; we have been intimate, considering the difference 
 of age and standing; he often spoke of me in terms com- 
 plimentary, and showed confidence. 25 th . The Water from 
 Cochituate Lake formally entered the City; the ceremony 
 was brilliant; the day was fine and all very successful. 28^. 
 Hon. Harrison Gray Otis died this morning; a man of ex- 
 traordinary talents; his manner superior to almost any of the 
 present age; I have known him well for thirty-five years. 
 He was more useful in bringing me into society than any 
 
(yV-^7/i /? t^crrurxu^c \Ji a t n^Ce^cC r>u- <LyL^a^u^ 
 
1849] Diary 133 
 
 other Gent n ; this was from attentions I paid his Mother 
 & Sisters when his Father died at Washington. His funeral 
 was quite private. 31^. Whig Torchlight Procession, very 
 Brilliant from five thousand torches. I doubt if these ex- 
 hibitions have much effect. 
 
 NOVEMBER 7**. We are all very much interested 
 in the result of the Election of the Pres* of the 
 U. States which takes place this day. Taylor will probably 
 be elected. 10 th . Mr Healy passed most of the day with 
 me, painting my Portrait. 1 
 
 DECEMBER 8'*. Went to Waltham; I am troubled 
 for Mrs. Greene's health. 31^. Among the pleasantest 
 affairs of my life has been taking charge of Mr. F. C. Gray's 
 business, and saving him from bankruptcy. 
 
 1849 
 
 JANUARY &*. Went with Mrs. F. H. & Mrs. Amory 
 Appleton to see them race on the Neck. 16^. Meet- 
 ing Provident Institution, the first time in which I pre- 
 sided. 
 
 FEBRUARY 1". Warren Club met at our House; 
 very pleasant, some fifty Gent n . No wine. 20^. I had 
 to dine William Gray, Samuel Hooper, Henry P. Sturgis, 
 
 1 For Mr. F. C. Gray; later it was given to Susan M. Loring; it is now owned 
 by Rev. William Appleton Lawrence. 
 
134 William Appleton [^49 
 
 J. Ingersoll Bowditch, William Amory, Henry B. Rogers, 
 J. Lothrop Motley, Thomas C. Amory, Ignatius Sargent, 
 Calvin Haven, Charles Lyman, Thomas D wight, Samuel 
 Austin, Edward Austin and Sullivan Warren — a pleasant 
 dinner. 28^. Went to Worcester; at Meeting of Trustees 
 Lunatick Hospital. 
 
 MARCH 1". Visited the Asylum with Messrs. Phillips, 
 Lincoln and Salisbury; found it generally in good 
 order, but too many Patients, and some changes should 
 be made. op th . Went to Dr. Cross for the twentieth time to 
 have electricity applied to my arm. 
 
 \ PRIL 16^. Went to Cambridge with Charles to ar- 
 JT\. range for a Tutor for him. ij t/l . Went to Somer- 
 ville; Dr. Bell speaks encouragingly of Frank; I see very 
 little hope. 19^. Went to Cambridge to arrange with Mr. 
 Hooper to take charge of Charles. 
 
 MAY I st . Took Mr. Peele of London to Brookline. 
 \ th . Went to ride with Mrs. Appleton and to see 
 the monument we have for Mount Auburn. of h . Mr. Benj. 
 Wiggin died this Morning. I have long known him; a 
 very correct man in his intercourse with others; apparently 
 with no fixed religious views; he lived with little happi- 
 ness and died almost unthought of. \\ th . Mr. Wiggin in- 
 terred. Went to the House, opened the Will; a strong 
 commentary on the saving of money for relatives, in see- , 
 ing the dissatisfaction expressed by Most persons. \$ th . 
 
1849] Diary 135 
 
 Went to Brookline with the Rives'. At Miss Sears' wed- 
 ding at evening. 1$ th . Mr. Franklin Dexter dined with 
 me. Meeting Committee on the tablet for Bunker Hill 
 Monument at Dr. Warren's — Messrs. Everett, Dexter, 
 Webster and myself compose the committee. 28 //r . Went 
 to Brookline with Mr. Abbott Lawrence; he will go to 
 London if nothing particular occurs to prevent. 29^. Went 
 to Groton 1 with Hetty and found Sarah and all quite 
 well. 
 
 JUNE 12'*. Mr. Gray & Mr. Dexter came to Brook- 
 line to arrange as to placing the Dog. 2 \$ th . Placed Mr. 
 Gray's dog in our Grounds; he presented it to me; but 
 it is my intention that it shall be placed over his grave. 
 10 th . Went to Cambridge to attend the inauguration of 
 Pres* Sparks. 
 
 JULY \i th . Sarah & Children were with us at dinner. 
 Judge Eustis & Lady called. 16^. Hetty quite ill, 
 high pulse, 120. 
 
 \ UGUST 3 r < National Fast — on account of the Chol- 
 xjL era. j*K Went to Newport with Charles in pursuit of 
 lodgings. 14A Left Brookline at 7 A.M. with Hetty, Mrs. 
 Appleton, Harriet, Charles, Nurse, Abby & two men ser- 
 vants, for Newport. Carried Hetty in the Cars & boat on 
 a Mattress. 
 
 1 Home of the Lawrence ancestors. 
 
 8 This marble dog is now by the gravestone of Mr. F. C. Gray in Mt. Auburn. 
 
136 William Appleton [1849 
 
 SEPTEMBER 8 M . Returned from Newport where we 
 remained almost four Weeks. Hetty very much im- 
 proved, we trust, is in a fair way to get her health. 17^. 
 Went to Plymouth with a large party to dine; there were 
 nearly One Hundred present. Mr. Webster, Mr. Everett, 
 Mr. Winthrop & several others made speeches much to 
 the delight of the audience. Dr. Mercer of New Orleans 
 went with me, Commodore Morris was my guest. A pleas- 
 ant day; we returned to Brookline at 1 1 o'clock. 2i J/l . Mr. 
 & Mrs. Abbott Lawrence called to make us a P. P. C. 
 Visit. 26^. Mr. Lawrence sailed in the Steamer for Eng- 
 land. 
 
 OCTOBER 8^. The Storm of yesterday caused the 
 loss of more than One Hundred lives, by a Brig from 
 Ireland going on shore near Scituate. \2 th . We this day 
 proved Mr. Benj. Wiggin's Will. Strange, when we see 
 the folly in others in laying up money they know not for 
 whom, we do not take knowledge. 
 
 NO VE M B E R 1 3"*. Party at Mrs. Nathan Appleton's ; 
 quite large and elegant and Fashionable. 15^. Dined 
 at Mr. Francis Lowell's, party of Ladies & Gentlemen; 
 very stylish & pleasant. 17^. We gave a dinner party to 
 Mr. & Mrs. Winthrop, consisting of the bride and bride- 
 groom, Mr. & Mrs. Webster, Mr. & Mrs. N. Appleton, 
 Mr. & Mrs. Paige, Mr. &. Mrs. James S. Amory, Mr. 
 & Mrs. Sears, Miss Appleton, Mr. Grinnell, Mr. Gray & 
 
1849] Diary 137 
 
 Mr. Prescott; twenty, including Mrs. Appleton & my- 
 self — as many as our table will accommodate. Sat down to 
 dinner at y 2 past five o'clock : all passed off very satisfac- 
 torily. 26 M . Went with a large party to Cochituate Lake ; 
 a most lovely day; a fine day it would be in April; Hon ble 
 Mr. Twistleton, introduced by Messrs. Baring Brothers & 
 Co., went with us. 28^. Attended Court with Mr. Twistle- 
 ton; Mr. Choate spoke, also Benjamin R. Curtis. op th . I 
 went to the Court and heard Mr. Loring in the case of the 
 Iron Company; I fear my friend Gray will lose the case. 
 
 DECEMBER I st . Very great excitement on account 
 of the arrest of Dr. Webster. 1 b th . Consecration of 
 Church at Waltham; a large pleasant party at dinner at 
 Mr. Greene's; Bish. Potter was with us. 2o M . Warren Club 
 at my House. Dr. Gould & Mr. Agassiz lectured. 31". 
 This ends another year. In the way of business I have less 
 than in any year since I returned from Europe, more than 
 thirty years since. I have not suffered for the want of occu- 
 pation, yet I am quite satisfied I should make a Mistake 
 to have less. My income has been fully equal to the In- 
 terest at six per cent on my Capital. I disburse freely, yet 
 my property increases. There has been no distress with the 
 men of business; Commerce has been generally profitable. 
 Rail Roads that have been commenced within the last three 
 years are bad generally. I think there is owned in Massa- 
 chusetts more than Sixty Millions of dollars cost in Rail 
 
 1 He was convicted of the murder of Dr. George Parkman at the Harvard 
 Medical School, and he was hanged. 
 
138 William Appleton [1849 
 
 Road Stocks; at this time not worth more than forty-eight 
 Millions for the sixty; or twenty per cent discount. My 
 belief is that all the roads entering into Boston except the 
 Old Colony will give a fair income; but those far from 
 the City such as the Mass tts & Vermont, Rutland and Ver- 
 mont Central will be bad property. I think the business 
 of the coming year will be good except Manufacturing. 
 To increase my fortune I can hardly desire, yet I am as 
 much displeased by a bad speculation as when I had very 
 limited means. 
 
 1850 
 
 JANUARY yd. Attended the funeral of Mr. B. Gil- 
 bert, an early friend of my parents, an excellent man, 
 much beloved and esteemed by his Acquaintances. io M . 
 Dr. Robbins died. A man of kindest feeling and a gen- 
 eral favourite. 
 
 FEBRUARY v*. Walked to State Street and to Mr. 
 Wm. Sohier's; shew him an anonymous publication 
 from a New York Penny paper which annoys me & Mrs. 
 A.; as to any, there is not the slightest approach to truth 
 in the attack. b th . There was a party at Mr. James S. 
 Amory's, quite pleasant, called the Ladies Whist Party. 
 8 M . Mrs. Appleton had a party consisting of about One 
 Hundred; said to be very pleasant — musick & a Dance. 
 I have been engaged in attending to Mr. Nathan Apple- 
 ton's will. \\ th . Meeting Trustees of the Society for Dis- 
 seminating Christian Knowledge. i8 M . Went with A. A. 
 
1850] Diary 139 
 
 Lawrence to see the land he and his brother propose pur- 
 chasing of Mr. Francis; 1 a poor business I think; so I told 
 him; he will find it so. 19^. Went to Worcester to meet 
 the Trustees of Lunatic Hospital; a Meeting Hadley Falls 
 Co. in afternoon; Dr. Hay ward's in the Evening. 
 
 MARCH b th . Went to Newport to engage lodgings 
 for the summer. \\ th . Mrs. Appleton had Sewing 
 Circle. 2o M . Attended Dr. Webster's trial. They will not 
 convict him I think; so it looks now. 21 st . Small party at 
 Miss Amory's, Temple Place. 23 r < Snow storm; have sel- 
 dom seen the trees more beautiful. op th . The trial of Dr. 
 Webster brought to a close ; after hearing the Charge of the 
 Judge, I went to prepare Mrs. Prescott for the news of the 
 sad event. 
 
 APRIL 2 nd . Went to Cambridge to see Mr. Everett & 
 ii Mr. Cushing as to raising some money for Mrs. Web- 
 ster & daughters. l$ th . Left Boston for the South. Slept at 
 Springfield; arriv d at N.York 16th; at Philadelphia, 18th; 
 stayed until 1st May. Much attention from our friends. 
 
 MAY 2 nd . At Washington; remained eight days; dined 
 at several of our friends'; pleasant evening parties. 
 Arrived home the 13th; pleased to find ourselves at our 
 home & grateful that no accident had befallen us during 
 absence. 2 I st . At Mr. Wm. J. Hubbard's to meet two Sand- 
 
 1 Mr. A. A. Lawrence built there, having a place of about eight acres. His house 
 and part of this land are now occupied by Mrs. Frederic Cunningham. 
 
140 William Appleton [1850 
 
 wich Island Chiefs — fine fellows. 30^. Went with Mrs. 
 Appleton and Children to see "The Ravenels." 
 
 JUNE 6 th . Went to Waltham with Mrs. Greene who has 
 been confined by severe illness nearly three months; 
 now very weak. j* A . I find myself much better since I gave 
 up Coffee and Wine. 14A Went to Charlestown to see the 
 preparations for the 17th. 17^. Interesting Discourse from 
 Mr. Everett on the 75th Anniversary Battle Bunker Hill. 
 22«< Young ladies went to Mrs. Brooks' to tea at Med- 
 ford. 25 //z . Mrs. Lawrence's Child Christened William. 
 27^. Mrs. Lawrence with her four children passed the day 
 with us; her youngest 4 Weeks. 28 M . Mrs. F. H. Appleton 
 left us with her son, a fine boy ; they have been some days 
 with us. 
 
 J 
 
 ULY 10**. Left for Newport; 12^. Find time hangs 
 rather heavy. 
 
 SEPTEMBER 4A Bathed, was weighed; found I had 
 gained two pounds since last weighed; present weight 
 is One hundred and two pounds, I think it is the great- 
 est for twenty years. 1 &K Took Sir John & Lady Camp- 
 bell to Brookline; pleasant people. 27^. Went to Hear 
 Jenny Lind and was much pleased ; for the Tickets I paid 
 $iiA2j4- 2 8 M . Engaged in getting subscription for Mrs. 
 Dr. Webster; got four thousand dollars in a small part of 
 the day. 30^. Left with Dr. Vinton for Cincinnati for the 
 Triennial Convention; slept at Albany. 
 
1850] Diary 141 
 
 OCTOBER 1*. Arriv d Buffalo, & embarked in Steamer 
 for Sandusky City; severe storm on the Lake. y d - 
 Arriv d at Cincinnati, passed most of the day at the Con- 
 vention; nothing very interesting. \ th . Went to Conven- 
 tion. 5^. Attended the Cattle Show, Horticultural Exhi- 
 bition, and Mechanick's Institution. y t/l . Went with Mr. 
 Longworth to the Garden of Endor, a large Vineyard. 
 io M . Left with Judge Boardman for Louisville; arriv d late 
 at night, stopping at several Cities in Indiana. 11**. Left 
 Louisville in Stage for Frankfort; very fine Country we 
 passed through ; then took the Rail Road for Lexington. 
 12**. Slept at Mr. Clay's the last night, went to the City, 
 made some calls, returned, some Gent n at dinner. Very 
 much pleased; Country Beautiful. 13^. At church; at 
 evening took a Carriage & rode some twenty-five miles 
 through a beautiful Country on our way to Cincinnati. 
 14A Took Stage at seven o'clock, pleased with our ride to 
 Cincinnati. 15 th . Dined with Mr. Longworth, quite a party; 
 Large House, plain dinner, a large party, mostly Bishops 
 & Clergy. 16^. At Convention; at a very large party at 
 
 Capt. & at Judge Pendleton's. Left at evening; slept 
 
 at Xenia. 17**. Arrived with many of our friends at San- 
 dusky. 18^. Left for and arrived at Detroit, a very fine 
 City & will increase. 19**. Left for Buffalo in Steamer. 2\ st . 
 Went to Niagara & then to Batavia; fine day, pleasant 
 party. 22«< Took steamer on Seneca Lake and Rail Road 
 at Jefferson, on the Erie R.R., arriv d at New York at 9 
 o'clock; a most Interesting day, the scenery sublime & 
 
142 William Appleton [^50 
 
 beautiful. 23 r < Made several calls; left at 4 P.M. for my 
 dear Home. 24^. Arrived at 4 A.M.; found all as well as 
 usual. Went to see our dear Mary Ann; found her some- 
 what emaciated since I left, but not materially changed. 
 2 $ th . Much to my surprise I was pressed to have my name 
 used as a Candidate for Congress: Was nominated & shall 
 stand as a Candidate. I have strong doubts as to the Wis- 
 dom of the decision; I am not suited for the situation. 
 26^. Many congratulations & complimentary remarks 
 made to me. I do not feel satisfied with the idea of going 
 to Washington; pleased to find my friends speak so kindly 
 of my nomination, I doubt if it is for good. Shall I not 
 be drawn more into the World and further from Him to 
 Whom we should owe sole confidence and trust ? I doubt 
 myself. 
 
 NOVEMBER 1". Went with Mrs. Appleton toSalem; 
 pleasant dinner with Georgiana and Dear Frank. 4^. 
 Dined at Revere House with the Turkish Envoy and some 
 sixty Gent n . II th . Elected to the Congress of the U. S.; 
 I have many doubts as to the propriety of accepting the 
 trust, I fear I shall disappoint my friends. 13^. A party 
 at dinner consisting of twenty — Sir H. L. Bulwer, Mr. 
 Webster, Charles P. Curtis, Mr. M. Williams of London, 
 Mr. Prue of Liverpool, Mr. Winthrop, Judge Warren, 
 Benj. R. Curtis, Sidney Bartlett, Samuel A. Eliot, Joseph 
 Grinnell, Mr. Everett, Mr. Silsbee, Mr. Ticknor, William 
 Appleton, Jr., Francis C. Gray, J. S. Copley Greene, Mrs. 
 A., Harriet & myself. Very successful, as we are told. 
 
1850] Diary 143 
 
 14A Dined with Mr. F. C. Gray; at Mrs. Paige's splendid 
 Ball. 15^. Went to Mr. Sparks' & Mr. Cushing's with Sir 
 H. Bulwer, dined at Charles Amory's. 19^. Dined with Mr. 
 Saml Eliot, party of some twelve or fourteen. 26^. Splen- 
 did Meeting at Faneuil Hall in support of the Consti- 
 tution & Union. 27^. Party of twenty at dinner, — Cha s 
 Amory, James Lawrence, Cha s Perkins, E d Perkins, N. 
 Thayer, F. B. Brooks, A. Otis, John Lowell, Jr., S. Eliot, 
 T. H. Perkins, Jr., T. G. Appleton, Mr. Dwight, Cha* 
 Lyman, P. Grant, Mason Warren, Dr. Hooper, W m A., Jr., 
 Mrs. A. & Harriet. Dinner well served by three blacks and 
 our two servants; it consisted first of cold Oysters, then 
 sherry wine offered; brown & white soup, followed by 
 Oyster Pates, Hock wine offered; boiled & baked Fish, 
 Pass the wine; next, boiled Turkey, roast Mutton, Veal 
 with Peas & Ham; Sweet Bread & Croquettes; then Wine 
 & Roman Punch. After Course, two pair Canvas-Back 
 Ducks, two pair Grouse, Wood Cocks & Quails, with 
 Salad; — Blanc Mange, Jelly, Baked & Frozen Pudding, 
 etc., etc., with Ice Cream, Grapes, Pears, Apples, Oranges, 
 & Ornamental Sweets from the Confectioner; a Bouquet 
 for Centre costing twenty-five Dollars. This is our third 
 Party this month. So much for the Fashion of the day; fruit 
 & Flowers placed on table before dinner & remain during 
 the whole time. 
 
 DECEMBER VK The last evening at the Meeting of 
 the Communicants, I felt more interest than usual; 
 my mind was tranquil and I had a strong desire that I 
 
144 William Appleton [^50 
 
 might have grace to go to the Table of our Lord free from 
 earthly thoughts; I prayed for such assistance. Thank God, 
 the day has passed most pleasantly; I attended all the ser- 
 vices of the Church with more than usual satisfaction; par- 
 ticularly the Communion. I have never had to my mind the 
 system of Salvation through the Blood of Christ more fully 
 to my conception; the darkness that at times hovers about, 
 disappeared. Oh, that I may have grace given me that I 
 may be enabled to put worldly cares and pleasures behind 
 me, looking forward only to the inestimable prize; not 
 only looking forward, but enjoying the present! What is 
 to be compared with the Peace that God giveth! I attrib- 
 ute much of my anxiety the last few years to my busi- 
 ness which has been profitable beyond the natural income, 
 which, being hazardous, led me to feel a desire to lay it 
 aside for a change. May I have less hazard & no misgiv- 
 ings of duty. 9^. Went to visit Col. Perkins, who gave me 
 a Gold snuff Box, I fancy he thinks his days are few. 1 2 th . 
 Harriet had a dinner party of twenty-four of her young 
 friends; very pleasant. Rather troubled as to W m ' s health. 
 18^. Went to Salem, dined with Mr. Silsbee; I think they 
 are very desirous of keeping the Property of Mrs. A. 
 under their controul. I shall do all I can legally to meet 
 their wishes. Xmas. The morning beautiful; Mrs. Apple- 
 ton troubled with ague in her face. Went to church; at the 
 Communion, not satisfied with myself; this was from get- 
 ting my mind fixed on a letter I had rec d and answered in 
 the morning, & not finding my Son at church. I feared he 
 was getting wrong feelings on Religious Subjects, and in 
 
1851 J Diary 145 
 
 my fears for him I was lost to all good impressions. We had 
 with us at dinner most of our family. Mr. Jefferson Coolidge, 
 who has lately become engaged to Hetty, was of our party. 
 I think well of him, but did not approve of the engagement 
 on account of their age; both being less than twenty years 
 old. 31^. Went with Mrs. Appleton & Hetty to an As- 
 sembly; did not enter into the feelings of the party, played 
 Whist most of the evening, returned late not well Sat- 
 isfied. The past year has been one of general prosperity 
 in this Country and Europe. In New England they have 
 been much crippled by bad & over investments in Rail 
 Road stocks. Manufacturing Stocks have paid less divi- 
 dends than for many years. The difficulty is over pro- 
 duction. 
 
 1851 
 
 JANUARY 2 nd . Harriet left us for a visit to Mr. Dex- 
 ter's at Beverly. 2j th . The "Cygnet" arrived, one hun- 
 dred and five days from Canton. 28^. Left for Washing- 
 ton, Willard's Hotel, with W m , Harriet and Abby, as 
 Harriet's attendant. 31^. At the Pres ts in Evening, and at 
 Mr. Webster's where we met Many. 
 
 FEBRUARY i*. At Sir H. Bulwer's to dine & at 
 Spanish Minister Calderon's in Evening. 2 nd . At 
 Church, a good but trying sermon to us Worldlings. On 
 Friday following W m & Harriet left me for Boston; on 
 Wednesday I followed them. Arrived in Boston, Satur- 
 day, 15th. \"] th . Went to Waltham and found my dear Dia- 
 
146 William Appleton [1851 
 
 mond 1 better than when I left. II nd . Engaged in relation 
 to Mr. S. Apple ton's will; what Vanity to get money, it 
 only brings Vexation. T~] th . Some of our family were at a 
 Fancy Ball at Mrs. Parker's. 
 
 MARCH i8 M . Most violent storm of the Winter, one 
 & a half foot of snow fell. 19^. Communication with 
 the south almost stopped; no cars from Lowell. 21*. Went 
 to Waltham, found Mrs. Greene suffering from a pain in 
 her side, had applied leeches. Went to see dear Frank — 
 no comfort. 1\ th . Wet morning; went to Cambridge to in- 
 quire for President Sparks' Health. 
 
 APRIL ?K A Ball at Mr. John E. Thayer's. 22*< Mr. 
 x\. & Mrs. Dexter called to see us, in consequence of 
 the engagement which is quite satisfactory with all. 24A 
 Mr. Sumner elected to the U. S. Senate. 27^. Went with 
 Dr. J. Mason Warren to Waltham; I do not get from him 
 much to lead me to hope that Mrs. Greene will again have 
 much health. 
 
 MAY \$ th . Went to Beverly to see the Dexters; we 
 found ourselves well received. 19^. Mr. Greene 
 wrote that our dear Mary Ann was much more ill; went to 
 Waltham and found her weak but in a beautiful State of 
 Mind. 
 
 1 His pet name for Mrs. Greene. 
 
1851] Diary 147 
 
 JUNE 17 th . Went to Nashua. Meetings Jackson & 
 Nashua Comp nies . Went with Mrs. A. to hear Jenny 
 Lind. 
 
 JULY i sf . Went to Cambridge to arrange with Mr. 
 Longfellow 1 to take charge of Charles going to Europe; 
 I do not feel pleasantly at the idea of parting with him, 
 I trust it is all right. 26 M . My nephew W m A. Burnham 
 died the last evening at Providence; much regretted; 
 quiet, but warm in his affections & correct in all his habits. 
 I went to Providence and found his mother & sisters as 
 well as I expected. 28 t/l . Went with Mrs. Appleton, Mrs. 
 Lawrence, Charles & Mr. Whitney to Providence to at- 
 tend the funeral of W m . A. Burnham; brought the corpse 
 & placed it under St. Paul's. 
 
 AUGUST 16'*. Went with Mr. Longfellow, Charles & 
 l\ Hetty to see the " Europa," fine vessel. 20^. Our 
 dear Charles left us in good spirits with Mr. Longfellow 
 for Europe. It is with mingled feelings that we part with 
 our dear and youngest Child; we think it well so to do; he 
 is as free from faults as almost anyone I ever knew. God 
 bless and protect him! 
 
 SEPTEMBER $ th . Cuban insurrection is done up. 
 \o th . Went to Springfield to attend Convention to 
 nominate State Officers. \\ th . Harriet left us with Mr. & 
 
 1 Rev. Saml Longfellow. 
 
148 William Appleton [1851 
 
 Mrs. Franklin Dexter & Gordon for New York. 17^. The 
 Rail Road Jubilee commenced. Pres* Fillmore arrived 
 in the City. 18^. Grand Dinner for the Pres* at the Re- 
 vere House — I remained short time — & excursion for the 
 Strangers in Harbour. 19^. Grand Show of Mechanicks, 
 & procession, the largest I ever saw in Boston. 10 th . Din- 
 ner party for twenty-one went off very well, Mr. Webster 
 very dull. 
 
 OCTOBER ind. Mr. Sterling, a young Englishman 
 introduced by Mr. Fisher, dined with us. 9^. Bishop 
 Potter arrived & Breakfasted with us, dined and left at 
 three o'clock. Our third daughter was married at St. 
 Paul's Church ; a very large number of our friends were 
 present; the Church was quite full. The connection is very 
 agreeable to us and Mr. Dexter's family; they appear to 
 have a fair share of happiness. At 9 o'clock Mrs. Apple- 
 ton received the company; the House was crowded until 
 nearly eleven o'clock; very pleasant apparently; supper 
 was prepared for the guests, & musick. The Bridegroom 
 & Bride left for our House in Brookline at y 2 past eleven 
 o'clock; delightful day & Evening! 1 I th . Rode to see Mrs. 
 Lawrence & the bride at Brookline, with Hetty. 22 nd . 
 Passed the Morning at Meeting of several persons con- 
 nected with Rail Roads to N. York. 2y d . Left with M r . 
 N. Appleton, Sears, Wm. Amory, J. Tilden, J. S. Amory, 
 Mr. Whitney, Mr. L Sargent, & H. Cabot for Vermont, 
 slept at Northfield. Entertained by Governor Paine; very 
 good dinner, etc. 2\ th . Went to Rouse's Point, dined & 
 
1851] Diary 149 
 
 returned to Burlington; supper given our party by Mr. 
 Peck. 2$ th . Returned to Boston via Rutland and Keene; 
 very satisfactory journey. 26^. Judge Warren brought to 
 see us Mr. Davis, member of Congress, I think him vain 
 & flighty. 31^. A beautiful day; Went down the Harbour ; 
 visited the Islands & forts at the request of City Govern- 
 ment — some Thirty in Party. 
 
 NOVEMBER 6'A. Attended Wedding of Mr. Wm 
 Prescott & Miss Peabody; large Party, very pleas- 
 ant. i8 M . Engaged in getting ready to go to Washington; 
 sent off Horses, etc. 24A Left for Washington with Mrs. 
 A., Hetty, Mr. J. S. Amory & Abby; arr<* N. Y. at 5 P.M.; 
 found Irving House most pleasant. 26^. Left New York 
 for Phil a , saw two Sleighs making their way with a mod- 
 erate quantity of Snow. 29^. At Washington we found 
 our rooms in good order & comfortable. 
 
 DECEMBER I st . Made my first appearance in the 
 Hall as a Representative from Suffolk. I feel doubt- 
 ful of the Result. 2 nd . Engaged at the House; made some 
 calls & rec d some visits. Mr. J. S. Amory left us; a good 
 fellow he is. o ) rd . Gov. Davis, M r . Stanley & Duncan at 
 dinner. House adjourned until Saturday. \ th . Made calls 
 with Ladies, & on the President & several Gentlemen. 
 0f h . Attended House, very little to interest except the 
 Announcement of Committees, I am on that of Ways & 
 Means; the most important — a compliment to my con- 
 stituents & self. 13^. Cold blustering day; made calls. 
 
150 William Appleton [1851 
 
 Mr. Fletcher Webster, J. O. Sargent & Mr. Davis were 
 at dinner. l$ th . First meeting of Committee of Ways & 
 Means; in House until three o'clock. i8 M . Dined with 
 Corcoran; Party of 18. 21". At Church Morns & Eves; at 
 Evening summoned to Mr. Webster's on a/c Revolution 
 in France. 22«< Sleighing pretty good. 28^. Rain, Hail 
 & Ice — Bad as Boston. 30^. Mr. Greenough & Mr. Sum- 
 ner at dinner. 31". At House from ten (in Committee to 
 12), then on Kossuth until y£ past nine. Poor business 
 for the ending of the year, which has been one full of bless- 
 ings not without very great anxiety. Our dear daughter 
 Mrs. Greene's life we have despaired of at times; but what 
 a consolation, when she thought her days and hours num- 
 bered but few, to hear her say she was ready; Christ was 
 all in all to her; she would freely give up all this world 
 to be with Him. Her Children, her Husband, Parents, 
 etc. she loved dearly, but God's will was her will. Our 
 third daughter married to F. G. Dexter; he is an amiable, 
 high minded man, I think he will make a kind husband; 
 of his business qualifications I do not think very highly. 
 Mr. Coolidge has been a very constant admirer of Hetty; 
 I think well of him. Poor dear Frank, we must give up 
 almost a hope for his recovery; his wife and boy I love 
 much; William & family have gone on much as the pre- 
 ceding year ; his twins have improved. Dear Sarah is as 
 loving & lovable as ever; all agree She is a worthy pat- 
 tern for her sex. Hetty is with us in our new position, 
 which is almost untried. We find ourselves pleasantly situ- 
 ated in our domestic affairs. My friends have by their kind 
 
1852] Diary 151 
 
 influence put me in a high position not only as a Member 
 of Congress but have given such Character of me as to 
 give me a stand I fear I cannot sustain. I cannot conclude 
 without a word of my dear late Amory's Wife and Child ; 
 he is a fine boy, his Mother most devoted and I believe 
 truly conscientious. 
 
 1852 
 
 JANUARY I st . Commences with a fine bright sky, mild 
 atmosphere, a temperature of the most congenial. The 
 City appears in motion; every person out making calls of 
 congratulations. I went with Mrs. Apple ton & Hetty to 
 the President's; they did not go in; I did, and was carried 
 by the crowd from room to room & right glad to get into 
 the Street. We had some fifty persons calling on us. Mrs. 
 Appleton, I trust, will continue to like this place ; she is 
 freed from the responsibility of Housekeeping which is 
 always irksome to her ; unwilling to relinquish what she 
 thought a duty, she has been often perplexed in doing what 
 she was not from habit well qualified for; with the kindest 
 feelings, often mortified by feeling she lost her self com- 
 mand when in contact with those in her employment. 2 nd . 
 Mr. & Mrs. Tyler & John G. Appleton at dinner. Mrs. 
 Tyler, the Matron of the McLean Asylum, a very superior 
 woman. §*K Kossuth at Senate. The House appointed com- 
 mittee to invite him to the House; I was not willing to 
 vote for it, nor did I do so, although by myself from our 
 section of the Country; I am right. 6 tA . At Committee at 
 10 O'C, House until 3 O'C. At Assembly with Mrs. A. 
 
152 William Appleton [^52 
 
 & Hetty. 7**. At dinner given Kossuth; about two hundred 
 & fifty present. \o th . Made calls with Mrs. A. and dined 
 with Mr. Webster, party of fourteen. 19^. Very cold. Dan- 
 cing party at Miss Taylor's; Hetty & I went for a short 
 time. We really suffer from cold at House & Committee. 
 No mails from North or South. 2VK Party at dinner of 
 eighteen; very pleasant. Mr. Webster with us. 22K Cold 
 weather continues ; mails through, bringing a large num- 
 ber of letters. 23^. Pleasant Dance at French Minister's. 
 Davis 1 made his first speech. 24A Mr. Corcoran's at even- 
 ing, & large Party of Gent mn at Supper. Mr. & Mrs. 
 McCurdy at dinner. 26^. At the Secretary of War's in 
 evening. 28^. At Calderons' at evening, very pleasant. 
 30^. Went to the President's with Mr. Silsbee, Mr. & Mrs. 
 Whiting, Mr. & Mrs. Thaxter. 31". Party of twelve to 
 dine; Mr. Silsbee & his son, Mr. & Miss Fillmore, Mr. 
 & Mrs. Seaton, Mr. Ingersoll & J. Davis. 
 
 FEBRUARY 4'A. At Conine Morris' for supper & 
 at Calderons' with Mrs. A. & Hetty. $ th . On return- 
 ing from House & Committee found Telegraph with the 
 pleasing intelligence that Mrs. A. A. Lawrence has an- 
 other Daughter. ~] th . Dinner, twenty-two; very pleasant; I 
 think some good will be produced by bringing together 
 persons from distant Parts. \o th . Dined with the Russian 
 Minister — Party thirty-four. \\*K We had ten to dine; 
 Mr. & Mrs. Bartlett, Judge McLean, Webster, etc. 14A 
 Some twenty at dinner, after attendance at Committee from 
 
 1 Afterwards President of the Confederate States. 
 
1852] Diary , 53 
 
 10 to 4 P.M. i6 M . Committee & House. Mrs. Coolidge, 
 daughter & Jefferson arr d . 18^. Dined with Mr. Webster, 
 Ladies with us. 19^. Party of Ladies and Gent mn : Mr. & 
 Mrs. Curtis, Peabody, Coolidge, etc. 21^. Splendid Ban- 
 quet in Memory of the birthday of Washington, about 
 150 at table ; I was an active Manager. 22»< Worshipped at 
 Capitol & at Mr. Pyne's. 2.of d . At House and Committee. 
 Ball at Mr. Corcoran's, said to be eleven Hundred there; 
 very splendid. 24A Dinner for twenty, went off well. 28^. 
 Dined at Mr. Corcoran's, Party of twenty-four; very ele- 
 gant: Russian Minister. Ladies, Mrs. Badger, Mrs. Stew- 
 art, Mrs. Appleton, Mrs. Peabody, Mrs. Coolidge. 
 
 MARCH 5**. Dined with Gen. Crittenden, & was at 
 the President's. 6 th . Mr. Davis made reply to Mr. 
 Rantoul (not much do I think he gained). 13^. A large 
 party of twenty-four at dinner — the English, French, 
 Spanish & Russian Ministers and the Ladies of such as 
 have Wives; some of the Secretaries & their Ladies, etc.; 
 went off very well. 19^. We had some twenty to dine. 
 Brooks made a good speech on Deficiency Bill. 26^. Dined 
 at Mr. King's, President of Senate; Mrs. Appleton, Hetty 
 & several other Ladies; rather more splendid than usual in 
 Washington. 27 th . At House; Passed the Deficiency Bill. 
 31^. Very unpleasant day; I am less pleased than with any 
 day since in this City; had an indiscreet and indelicate 
 speech from O. Fowler. 
 
154 William Appleton [1852 
 
 A PRIL 1". Dined at President's with Mrs. Appleton, 
 jLjL Hetty & about thirty more; very pleasant, more so 
 than we expected. 3 r < Had a very pleasant party of 
 twenty. Mr. & Mrs. Agassiz were of the party, General 
 Scott, Mr. Granger, etc. 5^. Committee & House. Com- 
 promise Measure discussed until near six O'clock. 9^. At 
 Mr. Butler's Church, House, and Caucus at evening; 
 not looking well for the Whigs, but the true course is to 
 cut all Abolitionists. 15^. Dined at Commodore Morris'; 
 Pleasant Party, sixteen. 16^. Mr. & Mrs. Dexter came to 
 make us a Visit. Mr. Greene, Mrs. C. Amory, Mrs. Shaw 
 & Miss Timmins arr d . 20^. Whig Caucus; poor business. 
 The Boston party at tea with Mrs. Appleton. 21^. Party 
 of some hundred & fifty at our house. 2y d . Party at Mr. 
 Corcoran's for our Boston friends — about two Hundred. 
 24A Dinner of twenty-two for Boston friends; very pleas- 
 ant, as we were told. 2j t/l . Pleasant Party at the French 
 Minister's, Dance, 29^. Dined at the Pres 1 ' 55 , a Party of 
 twenty; very pleasant. 
 
 MAY 8^. Left for Boston, found Mrs. Greene much 
 improved. We remained in Boston & its vicinity 
 until 24th when we left for Washington. 2j t/l . Much pleased 
 with my reception by friends in the House & Commit- 
 tee. Called on Lord WharnclirTe, Lady and Daughter. 
 28^. Called on the Pres* in relation to Mr. Lee's appoint- 
 ment. Wrote him; he said no appointment should be made 
 
1852] Diary 155 
 
 without my being informed. 29^. Dinner party for Lord 
 Wharncliffe, etc.; dined at 5, left at 1 1 O'C. 
 
 JUNE $*K A Telegraph that" Cygnet" sailed at 1 2 O'C. ; 
 rec d at 27 minutes after 12 at Office; from Boston 27™. 
 8 t/l . At Committee & House; much sameness from day 
 to day. 12^. Much talking & doing in the President mak- 
 ing. 16^. Mr. Hooper at dinner with his daughters; Con- 
 vention at Baltimore commenced. 20^. Mr. Choate came 
 up from Baltimore, had much conversation with him. 
 Went to see the Pres* who told me that he said to Mr. 
 Webster that he could have the appointment to Court St. 
 James; from delicacy he did not offer it while the Nomi- 
 nation was pending; said I might say so to Mr. Choate. 
 21*'. We have this morning the nomination of Gen 1 Scott 
 for Pres*; not agreeable to me. 24A The weather very 
 cool & delightful to most; I am rather tired of Washing- 
 ton. 29^. Mr. Clay died at about Eleven O'C. this morn- 
 ing; House adjourned on the announcement. 
 
 JULY i". Funeral Solemnities for Mr. Clay quite im- 
 posing. "Vanity of Vanities"! $ th . No House, In- 
 dependence Day. Called on Mr. Webster & Mrs. W.; 
 find them unsettled in their views. 6 t/l . House had an 
 afternoon session until 8 O'C. 12^. At House; made a 
 speech on granting the means to fence Custom Houses, 
 got on as well as I expected; no orator. 13^. Left with 
 Mrs. Appleton & Abby for Boston. 15^. Dinner for family 
 at Club House — 12 of us — p d $77.00. 17^. Arrived in 
 
156 William Appleton [1852 
 
 Washington. 24A Dinner for sixteen; very well got up, 
 quite satisfactory. 28 th . At House: River & Harbour bill 
 discussed. 29^. Samuel Lawrence, Mr. Morehead & Mr. 
 Breckenridge at dinner. Did not return from House until 
 near 8 o'clock, & went to Committee at 9 O'C. 30^. 
 House finished the River & Harbour bill. 
 
 A UGUST 2 nd . Mr. Kennedy came to live with me. 
 jl\. y d . The last three days quite cool, winter garments 
 pleasant. 8 t/l . At Mr. Butler's Church; most of the day 
 taken up in arranging to send home the remains of Mr. 
 Rantoul. g t/l . At House. Very handsome address on the 
 announcement of the death of Mr. Rantoul by Mr. Mann 
 & Sumner. i8 M . Not quite well — stomach out of order. 
 19^. Mrs. Kennedy came to stop with us. 20^. At House 
 late; rather warm & tiresome; want of order in the House. 
 Charles has returned improved. 2J tA . At House & Com- 
 mittee. I had a dinner party for Mr. Ingersoll, Prince, Mr. 
 Webster, Crittenden, Conrad, Hall, Gen. Scott, Dr. Pyne, 
 Mr. McClellan, Faulkner, Mr. Perly of Nova Scotia, Mr. 
 Markoe & Kennedy. 29^, Sunday. At Committee from 
 nine to six on conference with Committee of Senate; quite 
 ill the last night from Indigestion. 30^. At House & Com- 
 mittee until nine o'clock when we adjourned till 9, Tues- 
 day. 31^. At nine went to the House, adjourned at twelve. 
 
 SEPTEMBER 1*. Quite unwell last night but with 
 much exertion arrived in New York. y d . Arrived in 
 Boston & went to Brookline, found all well. 9^. Mrs. 
 
1852] Diary 157 
 
 Greene taken to our House in Brookline. 17^. Dined 
 with Mr. Thayer, a very large & elegant party. 2o //; . Drs. 
 Warren, Jackson, & Adams met at my house to see Mrs. 
 Greene. 21^. Went to the City; engaged in arranging for 
 a dinner for Mr. Tho s Baring, M.P. 22 w < Nominated for 
 another term in Congress. I accept, feeling I may decline 
 a year hence, but shall go if all goes well. Pleasant dinner 
 at Revere House, about one hundred and fifty present. 
 26^. Attended the funeral of James S. Amory's child, the 
 third they have parted with within eighteen days. 
 
 OCTOBER 2nd. Removed to Boston. 4A Our Daugh- 
 ter, Mrs. Dexter, presented us with a son; she suffered 
 much. $*&. Mrs. Dexter better than we feared she might be. 
 1I<*. Attended prayers at Chapel at 9 A.M.; very doubt- 
 ful in my mind if it would not be better for persons to Pray 
 at home. 2o v// . Sale City Wharf for #411-, full value, as 
 I think. I was willing to pay $400,000. II nd . We hear 
 Mr. Webster is very ill. 23^. The accounts from Mr. 
 Webster show that his Hours on earth will be few. 24^. 
 We were awakened by the firing of Minute guns, announ- 
 cing the death of Daniel Webster — The great man of his 
 time. 25^. Meetings of all classes to show their sympa- 
 thy on account of the death of Mr. Webster. 2j tA . Went 
 to Faneuil Hall to attend meeting on account of the death 
 of Mr. Webster. 28^. At U. S. Court Room; Addresses 
 from Mr. Choate & Loring. 29^. Went to Marshfield, 
 funeral of Mr. Webster; beautiful day; very numerous 
 collection of people. 
 
158 William Appleton [1852 
 
 NOVEMBER y d . Engaged in making preparation 
 for the morrow. \ th . Our youngest daughter married 
 to Tho s . Jefferson Coolidge. We are quite satisfied with the 
 connection; about One Hundred persons present. Fine 
 day. 9> th . I find the morning lectures quite interesting. I 
 generally go at 8 ^2 O'C. 9^. Yesterday I was again elected 
 to Congress by a very complimentary vote. \o th . Engaged 
 in getting subscription for Mrs. Webster. Went to see Mrs. 
 Greene. 12^. Dined at Dr. Mason Warren's; very pleas- 
 ant & luxurious dinner. 13^. Our daughter Mrs. Dexter's 
 son was Christened Gordon; I stood Sponsor; very pretty 
 party of her friends were present. vj*K Dinner at Mr. Jos. 
 Coolidge's; party for Hetty, very pleasant. 18^. Went to 
 Providence to see my sisters, Starrett, Burnham and Stev- 
 ens, after seeing Mary Appleton with dear George in the 
 Cars for New York & Savannah. 30^. Very large Assem- 
 blage in respect to the Memory of Mr. Webster. Called 
 on many friends to take leave. 
 
 DECEMBER yd. Arrived at Washington. Mrs. A. & 
 Charles our party. \ th . At dinner Rec d Telegraphic 
 dispatch informing us of the death of our dear Mary Anne, 
 our eldest daughter; unexpected at last, yet long looked 
 for. 5^. Left with Charles for Boston after going to church; 
 we slept at Philadelphia. Left for home from New York on 
 the boat. 7^. Found family all quiet, well, but sad. Attended 
 the remains of our first dear daughter to the Tomb. She 
 suffered much for more than four years, first from a cold 
 
1852] Diary 159 
 
 which produced a tumor. In June last it was intimated 
 that the sea air might restore her. I had the Ship "Cygnet" 
 of 500 Tons fitted. She, with her husband and Children 
 went in her to the Western Islands, Gibraltar & the Medi- 
 terranean, stopping at Malaga & Madeira on their return. 
 Absent more than three months; she returned not improved 
 in health. She was taken to our House in Boston, thence 
 to our house in Brookline for some weeks, & then was 
 with Mrs. Lawrence for some weeks; finally removed to 
 the House I bought of Judge Curtis in Nov., where she 
 died. It was sad to part with her, but we could not wish her 
 to live & suffer when death would cause her to be happy. 
 8 //; . Left Boston for Washington; found Mrs. Appleton 
 quiet & resigned. 10^. At House; pleasantly rec d by many. 
 Went to see Col. Perkins who visits this place on business 
 in his 88th year. 14A At Committee ; attended the addresses 
 in Senate, on the death of Mr. Webster. 15^. House rec d 
 Speeches from several members in honour of Mr. Webster. 
 17^. Committee in the morning & the House; had the 
 Committee at our House at evening; pleasant party — 
 plain supper. 25^, Christmas. The day wet and gloomy, very 
 dull to us, yet we should not be sad; true, we have lately 
 followed to the tomb our dear daughter, our first. So strong 
 was her faith that she appeared to feel that she was only 
 to be led across the Stream, and be welcomed by those who 
 had gone before. This was no sudden conversion; she had 
 been a most constant and devoted Christian for many years. 
 She leaves a most devoted Husband, and two lovely chil- 
 dren, many relatives & friends who will long dwell on the 
 
160 William Appleton [1852 
 
 purity of her life. We have the consolation of knowing all 
 was done to restore her that was deemed expedient. God 
 did not so order. 
 
 1853 
 
 JANUARY l". We are informed of the death of our 
 good friend Mr. Amos Lawrence. The past year has 
 been one of much interest and great variety : two Grand 
 Children Born, one daughter Married and our dear Mary 
 Anne we followed to her tomb. Charles returned to us from 
 Europe with more health than we expected, yet we are 
 not without anxiety on his account. Dear Frank remains 
 the same; Dr. Bell says he shall not give up hope until he 
 knows the cause of his malady. Mrs. Appleton, Amory's 
 wife, with her son, is passing the winter in Savannah on 
 account of his delicacy of health; I trust the dear fellow 
 may be spared us, he is all in all to the Mother. 2 nd . At 
 Communion with my dear Wife. 6 t/l . Mr. Coolidge and 
 Hetty arrived. Charles quite laid up. 8 t/l . The Jackson 
 statue inaugurated. Mr. Gray & Mr. Hall from London 
 at dinner. 11**. A more perfect day cannot be imagined. 
 24A Dear Hetty & Mr. Coolidge left us; their visit has 
 been very delightful. 2j t/l . Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence & their 
 two daughters came to make us a visit. 29^. Mr. & Mrs. 
 Abbott Lawrence arrived. 
 
 FEBRUARY \a m Rode & talked much with Mr. L. 
 3 r < Mr. & Mrs. Abbott Lawrence with us in the 
 evening. \ th . Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence in the evening. 6 M .Mr. 
 
1853] Diary 161 
 
 & Mrs. Abbott Lawrence at Evening. & th . Dined with Mr. 
 Corcoran; party for Pres* Fillmore & family; Cabinet 
 Ministers and their Ladies; very splendid & pleasant. 
 \\ th . Dined at Mr. Stockton's, pleasant party of twenty- 
 two. i8 M . Party of Gent n to dine. 19^. Went to Committee 
 at nine; in House until seven. Snowing all day. 24A Went 
 to introduce Gen 1 Pierce to Pres* Fillmore; was asked to 
 go with them to see the "Ericson" Steamer, but declined. 
 26^. Went to hear Mr. Thackeray. 28' 7/ . At Committee 
 from 9 to 1 1, House from 1 1 to 7 P.M.; hard work. 
 
 MARCH V*. We had a session from 1 1 O'clock until 
 ten at night. of d . Went to the House at ten, con- 
 tinued in session until the next day at 12 O'C, — much 
 engaged on Committees, etc. \ th . At 12 O'C, House 
 adjourned, went to the Senate Chamber, attended the in- 
 auguration of Pres* Pierce; returned home very much 
 fatigued. Snow storm. $*K Made calls, preparing for our 
 return to those we most love. 6^. Many persons called to 
 take leave of us. 7^. Left Washington at 7 A.M., slept 
 at the Girard House, PhiK 8 t/l . Arrived at St. Nicholas 
 House, New York, splendid establishment. 1 1^. Very glad 
 to be with our family & friends. 20^. At St. Paul's; 
 much gratified by Harriet's renewing her baptismal vows. 
 27^. Communion Sunday & Easter; our dear Harriet went 
 with us for the first time to Communion. I daily thank God 
 that our children have so many Virtues. 28^. Harriet's dear 
 infant is very ill. 31^. Our dear Harriet's infant died the 
 last evening at 1 1 o'clock ; a lovely child. 
 
162 William Appleton [1853 
 
 A PRIL l". In the afternoon we entombed the infant of 
 il Mrs. Dexter; Services at St. Paul's by Dr. Stone; our 
 daughter shew much strength of mind, and I trust & doubt 
 not is supported by the Religion she professes. 2 nd . Beau- 
 tiful day. Find Harriet as we could wish, seeking occupa- 
 tion. 27^. Our dear Harriet with her Husband left us for 
 Europe. 29^. William & wife, with their daughter, left for 
 Europe via New York. 
 
 MAY 3 r < Caucus preparatory to Convention. 1 7**. At 
 Convention. g f/l . Convention meets at Music Hall; 
 nothing interesting. n«* Met Committee of Convention 
 at nine, & at Convention at 3 P.M. 16^. Occupied at Store. 
 California mail rec d with accounts from our Correspond- 
 ents; at Convention at 3 P.M. 22*4 Meeting Dwight Co., 
 not pleased with the result. 
 
 JUNE 2 nd . At Convention as usual, Morning & After- 
 noon; rather tedious. y d . Convention & Committee 
 take up my whole time after nine A.M.; I do not believe 
 much good or otherwise will be done. 5^. At St. Stephen's 
 Chapel, found it well filled at Communion; some fifty 
 people well dressed, but plainly; felt much pleasure in see- 
 ing so many persons receiving religious instruction that 
 might have been precluded but for this establishment. 
 8 t/l . Our dear Charles left us for Europe; Mr. Greene in 
 the same steamer. Copley and Elizabeth dined with us. 
 
 1 Constitutional Convention. 
 
1853] Diary 163 
 
 li /A . Called on Gov r Jones of Tennessee. \$ th . Removed 
 to Brookline. Dined at Mr. N. Appleton's; attended Con- 
 vention. i6 M . At Convention, a very good speech from Mr. 
 Choate. 19^. Attended Church 1 for the first time in Brook- 
 line. Dr. Stone preached to a fair congregation; I mean the 
 Church was pretty well filled; they will find difficulty in 
 supporting him; a strong man, but not popular with the 
 youth or calculated to build a Congregation. I have been 
 for several weeks rather dyspeptic, changed my diet but 
 do not get right, it affects my nervous system by produc- 
 ing anxiety & carefulness; it is disease; I have never been 
 more apparently free from cause of anxiety than at present. 
 I am admonished to put my house in order, and should it 
 please Him Who gave me existence to call me, I feel that 
 I should meet the summons with as little regret as at any 
 future time. 26^. Not yet well ; my feelings are strong that 
 I have done my work; if my faith was greater I should 
 be quite willing to leave. I have never felt so strongly as 
 within a few days the desire & pleasing anticipation of 
 meeting my dears: W m , Amory & Mary Anne. 
 
 JULY 13^. At an early hour was apprised by a note 
 from Mr. N. Appleton of the decease of my early & 
 constant friend and Cousin, the Hon ble Sam 1 Appleton. 
 He possessed a strong intellect, a kind & benevolent dis- 
 position; strikingly the artificer of his own fortune, & he 
 laid open the way for his brothers & others to fortune. We 
 have been very intimate for many years ; there was much 
 
 1 St. Paul's, by Upjohn. 
 
164 William Appleton [ l %53 
 
 mutual confidence; I have not known the man more studi- 
 ously intent on doing right. Naturally, with strong feelings, 
 & at a time in his life irritable & overbearing, which he 
 overcame to such a degree that those who knew him late 
 in life would be led to suppose he was void of those pas- 
 sions we would wish to correct. In early life he was of very 
 great benefit to me in credit, loaning me his stocks, etc.; he 
 was more than a brother to me, I feel his departure much. 
 14A In the City at Convention as usual, & attending to 
 preparing for Mr. Appleton's funeral. 15^. Funeral of our 
 friend was from the Stone Chapel; full church; from there 
 we went & deposited the body at Mount Auburn ; very 
 affecting to think we shall see him no more. 16^. Went 
 to the late residence of Mr. S. Appleton. Will read; an ap- 
 pearance of satisfaction. Mr. N. Appleton, Bowditch & 
 myself are Ex rs . 19^. At Store & Convention. We left for 
 Saratoga, where we remained until 2nd Aug 1 when we left 
 for Lake George; on the 5th arrived home; all well. 
 
 AUGUST 9'A Meeting of the Hadley Falls Com- 
 ^ pany; a bad Concern. i8 M . Mrs. Appleton returned 
 with me from Lynn to Brookline where we find ourselves 
 alone; three of our Children are in Europe, one in Bos- 
 ton, one in Lynn. i$ th . William, wife & child came to us 
 at Brookline; we were rejoiced to have them with us after 
 an absence of some four months. 
 
 SEPTEMBER ?K At about five o'clock P.M. dear 
 Hetty was mother of a daughter which we were soon 
 
1853] Diary 165 
 
 apprised of, & which gave us great pleasure. 17^. En- 
 gaged with Mr. Wiggin's estate. 2l x/ . Arranging for the 
 building of a new ship, I did not expect such an event. 1 
 26 th . Much engaged with Mr. Wiggin, I trust I shall find 
 an end to this business. 28^. Attended Convention at Fitch- 
 burg to nominate a candidate for Governor. 
 
 OCTOBER $*K Attended Convention at Trinity 
 Church, New York ; it was very solemn & impres- 
 sive. b th . Left for Washington at evening. 7**. Called on 
 Mrs. Gadsby & President. 8 /A . Arranged my household 
 business. \o th . Returned to New York, at St. Nicholas. 
 1 \ th . Attended Convention, dined at Bishop Wainwright's. 
 15^. Returned to Boston. 
 
 NOVEMBER^. Wentto Mount Vernon. wK Whig 
 Caucus; I was Vice-Pres*. \l th . Our dear Children 
 came to us late this evening; Harriet much improved in 
 health & spirits. 13^. At church, very pleasant to have 
 Mr. & Mrs. Dexter with us. 14A Engaged at the office 
 and at election; much pleased by the success of the Whigs. 
 \§ th . Meeting Directors Providence R. R. Much rejoicing 
 on a/c of yesterday's election. 29^. This day I left to go 
 to Washington. For the second time I have been elected 
 
 1 Vessels owned in whole or in part by Mr. Appleton : 'Triumphant, Telegraph, 
 Courier, Minerva, Roxanna, Sally Ann, The Brothers, Triton, Champion, Rasse- 
 las, Harriet, Mercury, Jasper, Eben Preble, Delhi, Charlotte, Mary Ellen, Loo 
 Choo, Probus, Barnstable, Coronado, Horatio, Cygnet, Edith-Rose, Nabob, Orion, 
 Milton, Admittance, Oxnard, Hamlet, Tasso, Joshua Bates, Horsburgh, Courser y 
 Living Age, Egeria, Magenta. 
 
166 William Appleton [1853 
 
 to the Congress of the United States; I am at all times, 
 when I reflect, surprised to find myself in the position the 
 public give me. I feel much the want of an early educa- 
 tion and the neglect to improve the opportunities I have 
 had. 
 
 DECEMBER 5*K Opening of Congress; elected 
 Speaker & other Officers without much opposition. 
 b th . We had the President's Message; well rec d ; non-com- 
 mittal. He made us a visit last evening; very kind & gen- 
 tlemanly. \o th . Went to the President's with Mr. Edmunds, 
 Curtis & Mr. Dickinson; at the office of the Secretary of 
 the Interior in relation to the Court House for the U. S. 
 in Boston. \V h . At House, committees announced; I am 
 pleased at being on the Committee of Ways & Means, 
 
 yet it gives much labour. 25^, Christmas. Mr. with 
 
 us; he much troubled on account of his son's misconduct 
 at West Point. 26^. The day kept as a festival; offices all 
 closed. 27^. At House the death of Mr. Campbell of Ten- 
 nessee was announced. A smart discourse by our Chaplain 
 on the duty of rulers was given on occasion of the funeral 
 which took place on the 28th at the House. In the evening 
 we passed an hour at the President's with Mrs. Pierce and 
 Mrs. Means. (Splendid Misery!) 29^. At Committee room; 
 no quorum; passed most of the day seeing what could be 
 
 done for Mr. . op th . Went again to the President's; 
 
 he sent for the Secretary of War, who came in & had a 
 long talk with the President ; he left, I was called in. The 
 President said he did not like to interfere but would recom- 
 
1854] Diary 167 
 
 mend the young man not to resign but be tried by Court 
 
 Martial; so I decided & wrote to Geni D. and Mr. 
 
 & sent a telegraphic dispatch. 31". Some sleighs are out 
 this morning. 
 
 1854 
 
 JANUARY I st , Sunday. In looking from the windows 
 of our Chamber I see the trees most gracefully covered 
 with snow attached to the limbs in the most delicate man- 
 ner; the quantity fallen is some four inches, which is quite 
 large for this region. I went to the Communion table with 
 more than usual satisfaction; I feel within a few days more 
 warmth of heart, perhaps produced by the season we com- 
 memorate of the unspeakable goodness of God. 2 nd . House 
 not in session. Made many calls & Mrs. Appleton had some 
 fifty to one hundred visitors; being the custom the first of 
 the year for the gent mn to call on ladies. 5^. Miss Seaton 
 at dinner, a very interesting woman. Mr. Walley made his 
 appearance, I presented his credentials. J th . I went with 
 Mr. Walley to call on the President, Secretary of the 
 Trea s , Attorney Gen 1 & made many calls with Mrs. Apple- 
 ton. of h . No session of either House, anniversary Battle of 
 
 New Orleans. \2 th . At House and looking after Mr. 's 
 
 concerns; bad business. 14A No House; dinner for sixteen. 
 17^. At the meeting of Colonization Society I determined 
 to pay twenty-four hundred dollars for half expense of 
 sending eighty negroes to Africa. 2o M . Dined at the Secy 
 of the Treasury's, with a large Party of ladies and Gent mn . 
 21". Party of sixteen at dinner, very pleasant. 25^. House 
 
168 William Appleton [1854 
 
 adjourned to attend Mr. Bodisco's 1 funeral; large As- 
 semblage of persons Present. 28^. Dined at Mr. Everett's, 
 large and pleasant party Ladies and Gentlemen. 
 
 FEBRUARY 3^. Went with Mrs. Appleton to the 
 President's. g f/l . At House, the Deficiency Bill rejected. 
 16^. Dined at Mr. Sartiges', French Minister. 2o M . Most 
 severe snow storm I have ever seen in Washington. 21''. 
 With much difficulty can we get from one part of the City 
 to another; more than one foot of snow fallen. 22"< House 
 did not sit, Wash n ' s B. Day; dined with Commodore Shu- 
 brick. 28^. Mr. & Mrs. Dexter arrived; we were right glad 
 to see them. 
 
 MARCH 2 nd . Dinner at President's, about thirty; Mr. 
 & Mrs. Dexter of the party. 14A Rev d . Mr. Dex- 
 ter called with a Petition signed by three thousand fifty 
 Clergymen of New England, remonstrating against Ne- 
 braska Bill & repeal of the Missouri Compromise, which 
 I have offered in the House. 16^. The days pass with very 
 little change. I go to the House & to Prayers daily at 
 Mr. Pyne's church. 21". We had the Nebraska Bill in the 
 House; I think it will not become a Law. 27^. At House; 
 there was a sharp debate between Messrs. Cutting &Breck- 
 enridge. 28^. Dined at Mr. Riggs' with pleasant party of 
 Ladies & gentlemen, among them were Mr. & Mrs. Cut- 
 ting. 29^. At House much said of a duel between Mr. 
 Cutting & Mr. Breckenridge. Dined with Comm. Shubrick, 
 
 1 Alexander de Bodisco, Minister from Russia. 
 
1854] Diary 169 
 
 Mr. & Mrs. Cutting were expected. Mrs. Lawrence & 
 Amory arr d .30 //5! . All uncertain as to the duel; friends said to 
 be in consultation. 31". At House Mr. Preston announced 
 the settlement of the difficulty between Mr. B. & Mr. C. 
 
 A PR I L 4A In Committee of the whole; Bill, Nebraskan, 
 jlV the subject discussed; not well pleased, our Commit- 
 tee has very narrow vein. 1 \ th . At House, Nebraska is the 
 great object; I doubt the result, yet I think it will not pass. 
 W h . Dined at Mr. Corcoran's, Party of Gent n , Committee 
 District of Columbia. 13^. Mr. Lawrence arrived; he & 
 Sarah dined at the President's. 
 
 MAY 4A At two o'clock was Telegraphed of Frank's 
 illness; left with Mrs. Appleton at 5; slept at PhiK 
 b th . Went from the cars directly to Somerville to see our 
 dear Son. We found him very weak and unable to converse 
 much, but pleased to see us. On the following days he 
 revived, and had much apparent pleasure in the visits of 
 his Mother, Sisters & Wife; generally his mind was clear 
 but at times wandering, perhaps not more than others from 
 weakness; he continued in this state, some days more com- 
 fortable than at others, until Sunday, 28th, when in the 
 morning I went to him (having slept at Dr. Bell's generally 
 since my return from Washington), asked him how he was; 
 he replied that he had not had as comfortable a night as 
 usual; asked me to sit by him, inquired for his Mother, 
 asked if I was going to Washington again; he said, "Stay 
 by us, you have always taken care of us. Take care of 
 
170 William Appleton [^54 
 
 mother, my sisters & Wife." He said, "It is Sunday, you 
 will go to Church & Pray for us." Returned to Boston, 
 went to Church & was soon called out, being informed 
 that my son was much changed. Went immediately with 
 Mrs. Appleton & Mrs. F. H. Appleton to Somerville. We 
 found Frank unable to speak, not suffering; in which state 
 he continued until about three O'C, when he expired 
 without a Struggle. W m was with us during the last hours 
 of his brother. We have great cause of gratitude that he 
 was able to converse with us and that his mind was so re- 
 stored that we could enjoy his society. On Wednesday his 
 funeral took place at St. Paul's Church & we committed 
 his body to the tomb at Mount Auburn beside his Grand- 
 mother, his brother & others. We remained & attended 
 Church with our family on the 4th June; and the follow- 
 ing day left for Washington. 
 
 JUNE 12 M . Rather disturbed at the course taken as to 
 the Tariff. 13^. Quite cool; have on my entire winter 
 clothing. 16^. Attending to report on the Tariff, with Ed- 
 munds & Robbins. 1 j tA . Went to see the Secy of Treas- 
 ury, I think we shall find a grand opposition to Houston's 
 Tariff. 18^. Went to the Chamber of House Rep s ; heard 
 one of the most eloquent discourses I ever heard from Dr. 
 Lippcombe of Montgomery, Alabama. 26^. At House; 
 took up the bill appropriating ten millions for Mexican 
 Treaty. 2j t/l . Discussing Treaty; I do not like political 
 opposition when it would prevent doing what is essential 
 for the Public good. 28^. The ten million dollars granted; 
 
1854] Diary 171 
 
 I accidentally was out of the House, but should have voted 
 for it; our delegation voted against it. 30^. Most of the day- 
 was taken up as to when we shall adjourn. 
 
 JULY I st . House & Senate agreed to adjourn 4th of 
 August. Went with President, Mrs. Pierce & Mrs. Ap- 
 pleton, at the invitation of Lieut. Maury, to the observa- 
 tory in the evening. 7**. On the Civil & Diplomatic Bill. 
 8 M . At House as usual; very little doing. Hot weather is 
 the talk. 12^. Left for Boston with Mrs. Appleton. 18^. 
 Arrived back in Washington. 25^. Some gent n to dine, — 
 Repr 8 from South Carolina & Mass. 26^. At House; rather 
 tired, almost ill. 28 /yi . At House; made an explanation of T. 
 Sumner's copyright; very well received, carried the object. 
 
 A UGUST I st . Suffered much with ague in my face, 
 Jl\ but was at House. 2 nd . From 9 A.M. until 10 P.M. 
 at House; much exhausted when I got home. y d . Passed 
 day & night at the House; went to Mr. Corcoran's for 
 dinner. \ th . At six O'clock House adjourned until nine 
 O'clock; at 1 1 O'C. agreed to extend the session to allow 
 time for enrolling bills, etc.; dined at Willard's. 5^. Left 
 Washington and arrived at St. Nicholas, New York. j*K 
 Arrived in Brookline; right glad to be at home. 10^. Look- 
 ing into Eastern R.R. Concerns. 1 \ th . Engaged at store with 
 letters from China. \\ th . Gen 1 Taylor of Ohio was at din- 
 ner. i6 M - State Convention; attended in the morning. 18^. 
 Went to Beverly to consult with Mr. Franklin Dexter as 
 to my will; visited Georgiana & Mr. & Mrs. Silsbee; dined 
 
172 William Appleton [1854 
 
 with Mrs. Lawrence in Lynn; went to Nahant & found 
 many People. 
 
 SEPTEMBER yd. At Dr. Stone's Church; Mr. J. S.C. 
 Greene read the service very much to our Satisfaction; 
 I was truly delighted & said to my Wife, "If departed 
 Spirits look down on us, if any pleasure could be added to 
 our dear departed Mary Anne, it would be in seeing that 
 her Copley was doing a work that would benefit others." 
 12^. Dinner with large party at Revere House, dinner to 
 Mr. Morgan, going to London. 
 
 o 
 
 CTOBER 26^. Nominated for Congress, which I 
 decline, thinking I had better retire. 
 
 NOVEMBER 2 nd . Nominated to the next Congress; 
 much pleased by the kindness of my friends, but my 
 belief is that I shall be most fortunate if not Elected. 13^. 
 Election — voting for Gov., State Officers, Members of 
 Congress, etc.; the Know Nothings unexpectedly carried 
 all before them. After fully declining to be a Candidate, 
 at the solicitation of my friends, I accepted the nomination 
 expecting to have been chosen, but I am beaten by Mr. 
 Burlingame who opposed me two years since, receiving 
 about fifteen hundred votes (Free Soilers); he now rec d 
 six thousand. I am satisfied that I was right in standing, 
 and do not regret not being Elected. l\ th . We dined with 
 our brother & sisters 1 in Temple Place. 25 th . Occupied in 
 
 1 Thomas C, Rebecca and Isabella Amory. 
 
1855] Diary 173 
 
 getting ready for Washington. 28^. Sale Eastern Railroad 
 Bonds from one to ten years, averaging about 83 per O, 
 yielding more than 10 per O. Georgiana left for Cincinnati. 
 29^. Left for Washington. 
 
 DECEMBER 4'A. Called on Pres* & Lady. Much 
 pleased by the general expressions of Whigs &Dem ts 
 at my not being returned to the next Congress. I am quite 
 sure it is best as it is; I could not have stood better than 
 at Present. $ th . At the House; discussion as to the meeting 
 of our Ministers at Ostend — useless business, merely to 
 annoy the Administration. b th . At the President's, at his re- 
 quest; he feels badly. \2 th . Committee & House. Useless 
 discussion on the Missouri Compromise & Nebraska. 13^. 
 At House; continued the discussion at evening. Xmas. A 
 more beautiful morning I have seldom seen; the Sun in 
 all its brightness and Glory. We had a party of our most 
 intimate acquaintances at dinner; Mr. Badger's family of 
 North Carolina, Mr. Crocker, one of my Colleagues, and 
 several others. 28 M . Mrs. Appleton, Misses Amory, & 
 myself dined at the President's — large party Ladies & 
 Gent n . 
 
 1855 
 
 JANUARY VK Bright & beautiful morning; we attended 
 prayers at Dr. Pyne's; then Mrs. Appleton received her 
 friends; about an Hundred called, mostly members of Con- 
 gress but many Citizens, who were offered Punch, Wine 
 & Cake. The year past has been one of much change and 
 
174 William Appleton [1855 
 
 disaster. The loss of life by accident on sea & land is un- 
 precedented, while Europe is scourged by a most fright- 
 ful war. Our commercial communities have suffered from 
 extending their business; and the reduction in the price 
 of stocks is unprecedented, at least nothing to compare 
 with it since 1837. Rail Road Stocks & Bonds have fallen 
 twenty to twenty-five per cent & Manufacturing stocks 
 very largely. I have pleasure in expending freely for my 
 own wants, for those of her who is entitled to the same 
 privilege, and for my children. I part with money in vari- 
 ous ways of charity but much like to do it in my own way 
 and not to be dictated to or even asked, but in a general 
 way, to give with others. I expect and advise my partners 
 to pursue a course in business, expecting purchases to be 
 very limited and consumption apparently so. Money will 
 be dear & much complaint. Cotton will be low, bread- 
 stuffs high; the poorer classes must suffer. y d . Dined with 
 Col. Preston, pleasant party. Some anxiety for Mrs. Law- 
 rence; Susan, a dear Child to me, is ill. (y th . Went with 
 Committee of Ways & Means to Navy Yard; dined with 
 Mr. Hulsemann, Austrian Minister. Had letter from W m , 
 Charles not quite well; I am rather anxious, but have not 
 said so to Mrs. Appleton. 2or d . At House; French Spoli- 
 ation bill up; dined with Secy Navy, Mr. Dobbin. 25^. 
 Discussion French Indemnity bill continues. 26^. Meet- 
 ing Committee as to Court Houses. Mrs. Lawrence arr d . 
 27^. Passed French Indemnity bill; vote lioto 76. 31*'. 
 At House; late, on Territorial bills. 
 
1855] Diary 175 
 
 FEBRUARY 1". Party at Mr. Corcoran's; went with 
 Mrs. L. 2 nd . At President's with Mrs. Lawrence, very 
 pleasant. of d . Dinner party of some eighteen, all went off 
 well. 6 M . Texas Bill up, late at House. Tariff Meeting. 
 j fA . Took up question of going into the tariff, 104 for, 97 
 against — not a working majority. 10^. Pleasant but cold 
 party at dinner of nineteen. 12^. Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence 
 left us for Boston; we have enjoyed their visit much. \yK 
 Engaged with Bill for the Collins' Steamers. 17^. We have 
 the President's veto of the French Spoliation bill. 24A 
 The House occupied on the Tariff finally passed Hous- 
 ton's bill. 
 
 MARCH y d . At Committee & House from nine 
 A.M. until dinner. \ th . Returned last evening to 
 House and remained until 1 2 o'clock this day, thus closing 
 my Congressional labours, having passed four sessions of 
 Congress from 1851 to the present time in this City. Made 
 many pleasant acquaintances & I trust some friends and 
 no enemies; not an unkind word has passed between 
 myself and any person connected with the Government 
 during the time. We have enjoyed society much, and are 
 grateful for many attentions; much, very much better has 
 passed the time than I expected. $ th . Called at the Presi- 
 dent's & at several other places. 7^. Left Washington. 
 11^, New York. At Trinity Church in the Morning — 
 Bill Pool's funeral procession passed at 3 P.M. ; Ridiculous 
 for a Prize Fighter! 24A Received a kind letter from more 
 
176 William Appleton [1855 
 
 than an Hundred of my constituents asking me to name 
 a day to meet them at dinner. 31^. The Correspondence 
 offering me a dinner is published, very gratifying to me. 
 
 A PRIL "] th . Went to Chelsea to Appraise Marine Hos- 
 JlV. pital. 1 \ th . Mrs. Appleton had a collection of some 
 seventy Children & a dance, at evening. \2 th . Dined with 
 Charles G. Loring, party in compliment to me, very pleas- 
 ant persons. 20 th . Dined with Mr. Joseph Coolidge, pleas- 
 ant party of fourteen. 2$ tk , Spring is fairly showing its 
 verdure. 29^. Some snow. 
 
 MAY $ th . Made some calls, among them on President 
 Fillmore. iy d . Met the Superintendent of the In- 
 sane Hospital at the Gen'l Hospital & at Somerville; Dr. 
 Bell does not look right, I fear he is too much interested 
 in Spiritual Rappings. 28^. Passed the day pleasantly at- 
 tending to Mr. & Mrs. Becket, daughter of Lord Lynd- 
 hurst. 29^. Dined with Mr. Chas. Amory, party of twenty- 
 four, very Elegant, equal to any I have seen. 30^. Charles 
 arrived at Brookline at midnight. 
 
 JUNE 20^. Went to the City, preparatory to a journey 
 with Mrs. Appleton. 2V f . Left at 3^ P.M. for Saratoga; 
 Mr. & Mrs. Higginson, Mr. Inches, fellow travellers. 2$ th . 
 We find a pleasant party from Salem, consisting of Mrs. 
 F. & George Peabody, Mr. Endicott & son, Mrs. Rogers 
 & several acquaintances from New York & Charleston. 
 June 2& h to 
 
1855] Diary 177 
 
 JULY 3 r < Mrs. Appleton & myself are taking the 
 waters freely & with pleasant effect. On the evening 
 of 3rd, while standing on the piazza at the U. S. Hotel, I 
 was struck by a rocket, accidentally sent, much bruised 
 in my thigh, & Lower part of my body; applied ice and 
 was able to leave my bed on the 2nd day. \ th . Noisy time; 
 mostly in bed but had many kind callers. $*K Getting 
 about with difficulty, quite lame. 6 t/l . Left for Boston, slept 
 at Bellows Falls. 16^. Some inconvenience from my late 
 accident; Dr. Warren says it will soon pass off. 19^. Party 
 of young Ladies & Gent n in the evening, Charles' ac- 
 quaintances; rather gay, but pleasant. 
 
 AUGUST 18^. Left Nahant after a sojourn of ten 
 l days. I find my friend Abbott Lawrence departed 
 this morning at eleven o'clock. 20^. Went with William 
 & Charles to Boston; attended a meeting at Faneuil Hall, 
 to take measures to show our respect to Mr. Lawrence; 
 well attended & much interest shown. Mr. Everett & Mr. 
 Winthrop made very appropriate remarks; the Preamble 
 & Resolutions by Mr. Nathan Appleton excellent. 2l J/ . 
 Called on Mrs. Lawrence; she spoke of the love her hus- 
 band had for me. She bears her affliction with much firm- 
 ness. 22«< Attended the funeral of my late and valued friend 
 Lawrence, I was one of the Pall Bearers; the Church 
 crowded & a large number went to Mount Auburn where 
 there was a third Service; first, at the House, second, at 
 the Church, third, at the grave. Mr. Lawrence was a wise, 
 
178 William Appleton [1855 
 
 a good, a shrewd, and the most fortunate of men. God gave 
 him an understanding mind, in nothing so great as we see 
 in others, but a combination of desirable qualifications; 
 the appearance, the manner, the voice, the smile were all 
 attractive. He was a good judge of character, seldom mis- 
 taken. He employed & confided in none of doubtful ca- 
 pacity; he spoke & acted at the right time; he was open- 
 handed & hearted, but all that he parted with was at the 
 right moment. He encouraged others by his example & 
 he had the full credit for his liberality; others gone before 
 him & some living, have distributed as much as Mr. Law- 
 rence during life, but none gone & probably none who 
 follow in this generation will have so much publick sym- 
 pathy as Mr. Lawrence; he has done much for the com- 
 munity; he leaves a very strong mark. A small man com- 
 pared to Webster, but he has done much more for the good 
 of his fellow-man, in my opinion. He was strictly just and 
 liberal; none knew him better than I did, few loved him 
 more ; we were confidentially intimate for many years. On 
 my return from Mount Auburn, found Charles quite ill; 
 we fear he will have a rheumatic fever or dysentery. Sent 
 for Dr. Warren, who looked that he feared he would be 
 quite ill. lof d . Charles had a very painful night; I was with 
 him until Morning. I went to the City, brought out Dr. 
 Saml A. Green, to remain with him; Dr. Warren directs 
 active remedies. 24A They give him laudanum, Physick, 
 Blisters, leeches and poultices. 27^. Charles continues to 
 give us hopes he will throw off his disease. 
 
 :•• 
 
1855] Diary 179 
 
 SEPTEMBER 13**. Mr. Charles Sumner & Secretary 
 Cramer, Russian Embassy, & Lady came to see us. 
 25 th . Charles went to Groton to visit Mr. Green. 
 
 OCTOBER 2 nd . Engaged in getting the city House 
 in order. 8 t/l . Called with Mrs. Appleton on the 
 Bride, Mrs. John E. Thayer. 10^. Removed to Boston; I 
 feel as if there was more trouble than satisfaction in two 
 establishments. 1 \ th . Quite occupied in getting our House 
 in order. 19^. Went with William to Mount Vernon and 
 found all well ; I rejoice I have the power to add so much 
 to the comfort of those I love. 22«< Went to see the 
 famous Rachel, the French Tragedienne. 2y d . Went to 
 the Agricultural Exhibition, very good show, — Mary & 
 George with us. 25^. Military show on the Common. City 
 is full of people attending the Agricultural Exhibition. 
 The Club met at my house, Mr. Granger & Judge Eus- 
 tis of the party, & Mr. Thayer. 27 th . This week one of 
 much excitement, but considered successful. 29^. Went 
 to sit for my Pourtrait at the request of the worshippers 
 of St. Stephen's Chapel. 31^. Went with my Wife and 
 William to Salem to visit Mr. & Mrs. Saltonstall. 1 
 
 NOVEMBER 6"*. State Election ; the City full of ac- 
 tivity. j tA . The result of the election turns in favour 
 of the Know Nothings. 16^. I cannot realize that I am 
 almost three score & ten: my health good, my business 
 
 1 Georgiana, formerly Mrs. F. H. Appleton, now Mrs. Henry Saltonstall. 
 
180 William Appleton [1855 
 
 faculties not diminished as far as I can observe, and from 
 what my friends say I fancy they think so: my memory 
 is not what it was. I know it to be my duty to put my 
 House in order; my days are numbered and few. I have 
 my temporal affairs in such state that I think they will be 
 understood. 2i J/ . Our daughter Mrs. Lawrence delivered 
 of a daughter. 25^. Went to see Mrs. Lawrence ; found her 
 quite comfortable with a fine child. 
 
 DECEMBER IX Mr. Haskell at dinner; I think him 
 a sensible man. b th . Attended a sale of Land at Law- 
 rence ; a magnificent place for a Manufacturing City. Com- 
 menced with much zeal & by men of capital & intelli- 
 gence, but on a large scale; time may bring it up, but at 
 present it looks as if years would pass before any income 
 will be received from the Stocks in the Essex Company. 
 I doubt if the Machine Shop, costing seven hundred & 
 fifty thousand dollars, is worth anything. \\ th . Charles had 
 a party of twenty of his young friends at a six O'clock 
 dinner; all went off pleasantly, Mrs. Appleton & myself 
 at the table. 22 w < Charles informed his Mother and my- 
 self of his engagement to Miss Mason; I understand she 
 is a pleasant, amiable woman. I am glad to have him get 
 engaged, as I think it safer for him so to do. Xmas. We 
 had our children & most of our grandchildren at dinner 
 & some in addition in the evening. The day we celebrate 
 as the one of the most of all interesting to the race of 
 man; it beyond question is so; the religion of Jesus Christ 
 has done more for the temporal wants of man than all 
 
1856] Diary 181 
 
 other religions, and to us who believe, we would make no 
 comparison between the temporal & the eternal benefits. 
 Would to God my faith was brighter; I find at times I am 
 unhappy by striving to know what was not intended to be 
 communicated; Nicodemus like, I say, "How can these 
 things be?" The last year we have had Blessings not only 
 far beyond our deserts, but greater than usual; so much 
 so that I have thought of a remark of my Good Mother: 
 "When we have much given us, We should be on our 
 guard lest we become proud and require chastisement." 
 29^. Dined at Judge Warren's, a pleasant party; salt fish 
 dinner. 
 
 1856 
 
 JANUARY \ st . The last year closed my sojourn in 
 Washington. I am satisfied it was better I should not 
 longer continue in Congress. I feel that I was of some value 
 among the many in Congress but my usefulness was much 
 overrated there, and among my constituents. Our sons who 
 were absent a year since, have returned well; we had much 
 anxiety for them while they were with their sick friend in 
 Damascus. I truly feel that it is not important that I should 
 increase my property which at a moderate valuation is 
 worth fifteen hundred thousand dollars, but I am not likely 
 so to do; as expenses of my own House, my children's & 
 Mrs. Apple ton's & my relatives, with such charities as I 
 have pleasure in bestowing will take the ordinary income 
 of that sum. It is my intention to withdraw wholly or nearly 
 so from commerce the coming year. y d . It is good sleigh- 
 
182 William Appleton [1856 
 
 ing; rode to Brookline with W m ; pleased to see Mrs. Law- 
 rence's children enjoy the Country life. b th . Our streets 
 filled with snow, not a Carriage out at ten o'clock. 20^. 
 Went to Brookline to the Christening of our dear Sarah's 
 sixth child named Hetty Sullivan. 20f d . Mr. Toombs came 
 to stay with us; he is to deliver a lecture on Slavery. 24A 
 Went to Mr. Toombs' lecture, well received. 25^. Visited 
 Legislature, Gov r &c. with Mr. Toombs; dined with Mr. 
 Everett at Mr. Hooper's with Mr. Toombs, pleasant din- 
 ing party. 
 
 FEBRUARY l*. At a large party at Mrs. Greene's; 
 very handsome. $ th . There was a meeting of the Law- 
 rence Machine Co., rather a bad concern. io M . Mr. Greene 
 preached at St. Paul's Church, a good sermon & well de- 
 livered; his mother & Miss Greene went with me. \l th . 
 Meeting in relation to Rail Road fares; getting out my 
 pamphlet. 16^. We have accounts of the engagement of 
 our dear Mary, wife of our late son Amory; I am sorry; I 
 fear she is making a sad mistake. 2 1 st . Went to Nashua with 
 James & William Amory: I don't like the looks of things 
 at the Jackson Co. i\ th . Went to Waltham to attend the 
 ordination of my Son-in-law Mr. Greene, as a Priest. I was 
 much interested & affected by the services; he is a very 
 good Man; he was a good Husband to our daughter. 
 
 MARCH 14A Wm returned from Cuba. 25'* Our 
 son Charles Hook married to Miss Isabella Mason 
 at Trinity Church, which was crowded with Spectators; 
 
1856] Diary 183 
 
 she reed her friends at Mr. David Sears', a very large num- 
 ber of persons. The connection is pleasing to us; we think 
 her a good woman; they passed the night at our House, 
 & left Wednesday morning for New York. 26^. After 
 seeing our children to the Cars, I went to my place of 
 business. 
 
 /1PRIL 1 st . We hear of the arrival of Charles at Savan- 
 £\> nah. 14A Engaged in selling the Gore Place at Wal- 
 tham for Miss Greene; went to see the place with Mr. 
 Walker. 19^. Wrote a letter to Bishop Eastburn in relation 
 to his declining to administer the rite of Confirmation at 
 the Church of the Advent. When he came to this diocese 
 there was general desire to receive him kindly & aid him 
 in his duties; he soon shew an unwillingness or incompe- 
 tency to meet others with liberality of Spirit; he became 
 severed from many who could be most useful to him & the 
 Church. He has had his own way with much opposition; 
 there is great doubt in my mind if the present difficulty 
 will not lead to much trouble. 28^. Meeting of Standing 
 Committee for some action in relation to the Bishop & the 
 Church of the Advent. I do not fully agree with the Clergy, 
 or a majority of them. The Bishop is not wise, but I think 
 we should make the best of him. 
 
 MAY \ th . We find our friend Dr. Warren died this 
 morning at three o'clock. We have been very inti- 
 mate for forty years; he, our family Physician, & for most 
 of the time I have had exclusive charge of his property, 
 
184 William Appleton [1856 
 
 & no part of my business transactions am I better satisfied 
 with. He leaves his family more than four Hundred thou- 
 sand dollars, and not a bad piece of Property amongst it. 
 He was as attentive to my family as I was to his inter- 
 est; neither ever made a charge for services. He was a 
 man of strong mind, strong prejudices, true to his friends, 
 but had not many. A true follower of Christ; at times 
 more & less zeal; many, many good points of Character. 
 b th . Most of the morning at the Residence of Dr. Warren 
 arranging for the morrow. j*K Funeral services of Dr. 
 Warren at St. Paul's Church; very large attendance, all 
 with much order & solemnity. 8 /j *. Engaged in arrang- 
 ing Dr. Warren's papers; some time at the House & had 
 much talk with Dr. Jackson; I hope they will not have 
 his Bones made into a skeleton and put in the Medical 
 College as he requested. 14A We, Mrs. A. & myself, left 
 for a journey. l6 M . Arrived at Washington, pleasantly re- 
 ceived by Mr. & Miss Corcoran. \~] th . Called at President's; 
 went with a party to Mount Vernon; dined at a house 
 some ten Miles further down the river; very fine, pleasant 
 day. 19^. Went to the House of Rep s , very pleasantly 
 Rec d , some half hundred old members came to take me 
 by the hand. Went to the Senate, heard Mr. Sumner speak, 
 very unfortunate in his remarks, very severe on mem- 
 bers of the Senate generally, & particularly on some. 2o /y *. 
 Dined at the President's, a small party made for us; at Mrs. 
 Hill's in the evening. 22"< Left Washington much grati- 
 fied by our visit, particularly by the kindness of Mr. C. 
 
1856] Diary 185 
 
 JUNE 9^. At the Probate Court; I do not like the idea 
 of being Ex r on Dr. Warren's Estate, I fear trouble, 
 but I think it due to his wish. 10 th . Went with Mrs. Apple- 
 ton and Charles & his wife to Boston; examined Mr. Tem- 
 pleman Coolidge's house & the One in Walnut Street, 
 price the same ; Charles & wife prefer the latter. 2 1 st . Bought 
 Mr. Hooper's House with all the furniture of his in it, 
 for thirty thousand dollars to be paid without Int. on 1st 
 Jan. next. 27 th . Club dinner at Mr. Motley's at Dedham. 
 
 JULY \ th . Went to Waltham; violent shower of rain & 
 hail, as I returned; came very nigh being run against 
 by the train on the Worcester Rail Road at the crossing at 
 Newton Centre ; the rain & wind prevented the man being 
 out with the flag & my hearing the whistle ; I was quite near 
 the engine when it passed. My time has not come; there 
 is more for me to do on earth; God give me strength & 
 grace to finish my days for the benefit of my fellow Men. 
 $ th . Went to the City and called to see Dr. Paulding, 
 who was kind to my Sons in Damascus. I gave One Hun- 
 dred dollars to his infant child born on the passage in the 
 Steamer lately arrived. b th . Detained from Church by a 
 slight accident; in returning from Boston yesterday the 
 Horse took fright & the seat of the wagon fell on my 
 ancle. 25^. Got bit by a dog at the Stable of the late Dr. 
 Warren. I was bit after turning from the dog, which was 
 tied with a long Rope; his bite was through my coat, 
 Pants, & drawers. Within the last month I have three 
 
186 William Appleton [1856 
 
 times been admonished that life was uncertain & while in 
 health, liable to be suddenly called. 26^. Mrs. A. & myself 
 alone; I brought home the Life or Memoirs of Captain 
 Vickers, late in the English service; he was killed at the 
 Crimea. I am much interested in it & hardly laid it down 
 until I read it through; he died at about thirty-five, gay 
 & dissipated until the last few years of his life when he 
 became one of the most ardent of Christians; his faith such 
 as one admires not without astonishment. I feel I am a 
 better man for reading his Life. 31^. Left for a visit to our 
 Children at Lynn, dined at Mr. Lawrence's; found the 
 children quite ill from Scarlet fever & its effects; took up 
 our lodgings at Mr. Dexter's. 
 
 AUGUST I st . Mrs. Lawrence's eldest daughter quite 
 l ill, the other children complaining. 3 r < Little Susan 
 quite ill, Mamie in a critical state. \ th . Drs. Jeffries & 
 Lyman visited Mary Ann Lawrence in consultation; they 
 deem her case doubtful but not desperate. \o th . Mrs. L.'s 
 family continue to improve. Took a walk with Rev d 
 Charles Mason. I feel & have felt the last week a Peace 
 of mind valuable above price. My feelings of Peace are 
 produced by a trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, that He 
 came to save sinners, that in believing in Him we receive 
 the Spirit which dispels evil thoughts & fills us with a 
 desire to do His will. 13^. Went with Mr. N. Appleton 
 and dined at Mr. C. G. Loring's, small party; called at 
 Mr. Coolidge's; did not go in on a/c of scarlet fever at 
 Mrs. L's. \&K Went to Boston to meet with some gentle- 
 
1856] Diary 187 
 
 men in relation to whom we should support for President; 
 returned to Lynn. 23K Returned to Brookline. Harriet 
 & Mr. Dexter were very much disposed to make our 
 time pass pleasantly. op th . Charles & Isabella returned 
 from Lynn to pass the month Sept. with us. Mr. Mason 
 & his two sons dined with us. 31". That I should have 
 been protected even to give Religion a thought — after 
 the neglect the most of my life — shows the continued 
 operation of the blessed Spirit. When I go back to Child- 
 hood, separated soon after the death of my Father at less 
 than nine years of Age; separated from the best of mothers, 
 being sent to school & then placed in a store under the 
 guidance of those who professed no religion, in a place 
 where there was more vice & less refinement than any I 
 have known in later life; removing to Boston at twenty 
 years of age with the strongest desire for the accumulation 
 of Wealth, flattered for my sagacity, successful in my en- 
 terprises, almost unparalleled in my success in laying the 
 foundation of the fortune I possess. That I have not been 
 destroyed by the desire to get money for the sake of pos- 
 session, that I did not become an intemperate man from 
 the temptation while living in Temple, that with the sin- 
 fulness of my natural ungoverned passions, that I have 
 not disgraced myself in the eyes of the world as I have in 
 my own estimation & in the eye of God, is Wonderful 
 to my view. But what am I ? Full of the passions; a day 
 does not pass but I have to regret the loss of temper, an 
 envious thought, or the want of an humble spirit. 
 
188 William Appleton [1856 
 
 SEPTEMBER yd m State Convention met at Tremont 
 Temple. Whig meeting; Mr.Winthrop & others made 
 good Speeches. 5^. Mary & George dined with us; he is 
 very bright & pleasant, but very little strength of Consti- 
 tution. 17^. A grand & beautiful assemblage on account 
 of the exhibition of the Statue of Franklin; fine day; 
 services very acceptable. 22"^. Went to the City and saw 
 Mrs. Coolidge, appeared as well as for some time; she was 
 confined at evening, giving us our fifteenth Grand Child, 
 a daughter. 29^. Left Boston with my Wife, Mr. J. S. & 
 Mrs. Amory, Mrs. Greene & Miss Isabella Amory for 
 PhiR My time was pleasantly occupied in the Conven- 
 tion and religious exercises and Social parties until Oc- 
 tober 21st when the Convention closed the business. We 
 found many old friends & made many acquaintances, & 
 heard many excellent sermons; one from Bishop Otey, sub- 
 ject The Penitent Thief, pleased me so much that I have 
 had five thousand printed, trusting others may be benefited 
 by them. 
 
 OCTOBER 24/*. I find myself much taken up with 
 my friends on the subject of again allowing my name 
 to be used as a candidate for Congress. Late at night was 
 called up by the sound of music; small party of Gent n 
 came in to our House & took wine. Mr. Winthrop & Mr. 
 Stevenson, it was said, made very pleasant & complimen- 
 tary remarks at Faneuil Hall in relation to me for the posi- 
 tion for which I am Nominated. 25^. Several persons called 
 
1856] Diary 189 
 
 on me for an explanation as to what would be my course 
 in case I should be elected to Congress in relation to the 
 Naturalization Laws. I endeavoured to answer fairly, but 
 as both sides appeared satisfied I fear they do not under- 
 stand me & will give the idea that I have two stories; I try 
 to be conscientious in my answers. 28^. " Courser " arriv d 
 at New York, 156 days from China; much to my relief. 
 29^. Much interested in talking of the coming election. 
 I do not wish to be beaten, yet I shall in one week be 
 better satisfied if not elected. 31^. Our community seem 
 all engaged in politicks; perhaps the only office in which 
 there is much doubt is whether Mr. Burlingame or myself 
 will be elected for Congress; my opinion is that I shall have 
 many more votes than he will, but most of my friends doubt. 
 
 NOVEMBER i*. They say Mr. Burlingame will be 
 elected; I do not think so, yet I almost hope he will. 
 Mr. Stanley, former member of Congress, came to make 
 us a visit. y d . Went with Mr. Stanley to Cambridge, 
 Mount Auburn, Hospitals, Jail & over most of our City. 
 4A This was the day of the election of President, U. S. 
 Officers, Gov r , etc. of Mass tts & Members of Congress 
 from this State. The excitement much greater than usual, 
 the result very doubtful through the Country. I was asked 
 a long time since if I would be a candidate for election to 
 Congress; I declined, but was asked not to say so while 
 they were making other arrangements. While in Phil d at- 
 tending Episcopal Convention, I was nominated; & sev- 
 eral friends, among them my long tried friend Nathan 
 
190 William Appleton [^56 
 
 Appleton, desiring & advising me to stand, I wrote in ac- 
 cordance. The election was very close, Mr. Burlingame 
 having some Seventy more votes than for myself, twelve 
 thousand cast. It was first announced that I was elected 
 from the News Papers' Extra, & I was waited on with a 
 very large number of persons; Band of music, etc. When 
 it was ascertained that I was not elected, I can truly say 
 I was never more satisfied that I had escaped a most un- 
 pleasant duty. Had I been elected, in again going to Wash- 
 ington, it would have been a twice told tale ; those with 
 whom we most associated had left, and after the very strong 
 expressions of my power of usefulness much would have 
 been expected of me; in addition I am satisfied it is not 
 the place for religious growth for me. I have been much 
 flattered by the kind remarks of my friends as to my char- 
 acter in general & of usefulness at Washington in Speeches 
 by Messrs. Winthrop, Stevenson & others, in Publick, & 
 in the Courier, Daily Advertiser, & without an unkind word 
 from my opponents. § th . Some excitement, but it is gen- 
 erally understood Mr. Buchanan is to be the next President 
 of the U. S. ~j th . Mr. Stanley who has been a week with 
 us left this morning. I think him a most excellent man; 
 good, very good intentions. Dined with Humane Society 
 at Dr. Lothrop's. 8^. Went in the afternoon to the Opera 
 with Mrs. Appleton. \$ th . This day closes my sixty-ninth 
 year — the age of man. My life has been varied, as much 
 so as almost any; my education much neglected, and with 
 never a strong disposition to improve it by reading or by 
 other sources to gain general information, I have been sue- 
 
1856] Diary 191 
 
 cessful. When appointed President of the U. S. Branch 
 Bank, succeeding Mr. Gray & Mr. Greene, I doubted and 
 feared my power to sustain the position in that place; I gave 
 satisfaction, and the position was useful in raising my stand- 
 ard of character; feeling I was so situated that much was 
 expected of me, I was more particular in my manner of 
 business and associations with others. The death of my 
 eldest son had much influence on my future. My desire for 
 increasing my property was diminished, and with the as- 
 sociation with religious persons, and more than any with 
 my dear departed Son Amory, I took a more fixed view 
 of Religion; what had been form, I believe God blessed 
 with reality. Few, very few who have lived for nearly fifty 
 years engrossed in the business of the World in unchecked 
 prosperity have been thus Blessed. I have had and now at 
 times have doubts as to the reality of my change of heart, 
 yet I do at this moment believe in the Atoning blood of 
 Jesus Christ. Six years since I was elected to represent the 
 City of Boston in the House of Representatives of the 
 United States. I entered into the duties with doubt & diffi- 
 dence. I was sustained & re-elected a second term which I 
 served with success & pleasure to myself; I was astonished 
 when the time was ended that I had so many friends and so 
 high a standing. The present month I have, at the solicita- 
 tions of friends & the community, been a Candidate but 
 not elected.Many of my best and long tried friends voted 
 for another, not because they had lost respect or confidence 
 in me, but because they differed from me in political expe- 
 diences. No man can know what are the feelings of others 
 
192 William Appleton [1856 
 
 toward him, but I do not know, I have no reason to believe 
 the person lives who wishes me harm; or in common par- 
 lance that I have an enemy, & I can truly say I do not 
 know the person toward whom I have an unkind feeling. 
 I do not mean I feel alike to all. 
 
 DECEMBER 1*. Went to see my friend F. C. Gray 
 who we do not expect to live long; I asked him if 
 he had any wish as to the location of the Marble he placed 
 in the grove near my House at Brookline; he said none 
 other than it remain where it was as long as any son or 
 grandchild should, on seeing it, be reminded of the friend- 
 ship that existed between himself & me; after that he 
 had no wish as to its destination. 1 VK Hetty's child chris- 
 tened; Mrs. Coolidge, for whom it was named, stood as 
 sponsor with the Parents; most of our children were pres- 
 ent. \$ th . I called on Mr. Peabody; had a dinner for him 
 at the Revere House; very well arranged. I presided, Mr. 
 Everett & others made speeches. 18^. Dinner at Mr. 
 Thayer's, large party made for Mr. Peabody of London. 
 20f d . I dined at Mr. Sears' with Mr. Peabody & some dozen 
 gentlemen; I have been invited to meet Mr. Peabody of 
 London at a succession of dinner parties, six or eight. I 
 find I can so controul my appetite that I am not incon- 
 venienced by this dining. I can eat plain food to the extent 
 of my desire; no wish for Puddings, pastry, fruit, or Ice. I 
 once thought if I could eat as much bread or Rice as to 
 satisfy my hunger I should be very happy. 24A Mrs. Ap- 
 pleton very busy in making preparations for tomorrow. 
 
1857] Diai 7 193 
 
 31". We dined at Mr. Coolidge's, no company except the 
 dear babies. 
 
 1857 
 
 JANUARY 1*. The past year has been one of unusual 
 excitement in the Political World, or more properly, 
 in the United States. The feeling that the Southern por- 
 tion of the Country were intending to extend slavery into 
 the Territories caused the excitement at the North, and 
 there appeared to be a feeling that could not be checked, 
 but since the Presidential Election we are getting quiet. 
 Many have thought there would be a dissolution of the 
 Union; I have no fears on that subject. I was, as I now 
 think, most fortunate in not being again elected to Con- 
 gress. The past year has been one of general prosperity in 
 our Country in this region; there has been a depression in 
 the price of Rail Road & Manufacturing stocks, but the 
 income generally equal to an interest of six per cent. It 
 has been my intention to retire from commercial pursuits, 
 but for various causes I continue ; I think I may be use- 
 ful to my wife & children & while it pleases God that I 
 should remain on earth & I have health, I feel it a duty 
 & a pleasure to be active in looking after my business & 
 protecting others' affairs. 2 nd , Attended the funeral of my 
 long tried friend, F.C.Gray; a most excellent heart he 
 had, intelligent beyond almost any, very industrious in 
 gaining information and most happy in communicating it 
 to others. I was in a position to be useful to him ; he al- 
 ways expressed his gratitude; not satisfied with express- 
 
194 William Appleton [^57 
 
 ing his obligations, he gave plate, ornaments, etc. to the 
 family costing more than fifteen Hundred dollars as I be- 
 lieve. \ th . At Church Dr. Vinton gave us an account of 
 those who had left the past year; Mr. Sears & myself are 
 the only persons who were interested in erecting the Church 
 thirty-six years since, now Worshipping in St. Paul's. 9^. 
 Anniversary of our Marriage, forty- two years since. 17^. 
 Called on Chief Justice Shaw, quite ill. 19^. Snow pre- 
 vents Carriages from passing, I remain in the House. 20^. 
 No communication by Rail Road; milkmen with diffi- 
 culty get to the City. 21", We hear of many disasters on 
 the Coast; Rail Roads partially opened. lo^ d . This is said 
 to be the coldest day almost ever known in this region. 
 Th r from 5 to §. 
 
 FEBRUARY 4A Meeting Lawrence Machine Shop 
 Prop rs ; bad business; stock worth nothing. Party at 
 B. D. Greene's. Mr. Quincy's 85th birthday. &K Mrs. C. H. 
 Appleton delivered of a son: all appears to be doing well; 
 a great pleasure to us all. l\ st . Preparing for a trip to 
 Washington. 24A Arrived at Washington, went to Mrs. 
 Fish's party; called at the President's, he asked to have our 
 trunks sent to his Palace, which we declined. 15 th . At break- 
 fast at Mr. Corcoran's who invited us to stay with him; 
 dined at the President's. 26^. At House & Senate, pleas- 
 antly rec d . Messrs. Toombs & Broadhead asked us to 
 remove to their Houses during our stay; dined at Gov. 
 Aiken's. 27^. Dined at Mr. Corcoran's, a large & pleasant 
 party; went to the President's, immense crowd. 
 
1857] Diar y ] 95 
 
 MARCH 2 nd . Left for Phil d , but detained through 
 the night in Boat at Havre de Grace. y d . Arrived 
 at New York. 4A Left in Boat for Boston. 24A We have 
 accounts from China of the destruction of a portion of Can- 
 ton. 27^. Invited by Chamber of Commerce to go to Wash- 
 ington in relation to our affairs growing out of the War in 
 China. 28'^. Making arrangements to go to Washington. 
 
 APRIL l*. Arr d in Washington with Mr. Hooper. 2«^. 
 xV. Called on the Secy State, told him our Mission 
 was in relation to the state of our commerce in China; 
 pleasantly rec d . Called on Lord Napier, Baron Stoeckl, 
 Count Sartiges and President. Had further interview with 
 General Cass. y d . Went with Gen 1 Cass to the President's, 
 found them disposed to comply with our wishes. Called 
 on M r Toucey. £**. Arrived home at 5 A.M., attended 
 Trinity Church in the morning, our youngest son Con- 
 firmed. 18^. Rode to office, found the Air unpleasant; re- 
 turned and amused myself by looking over my journals; 
 much surprised to find how much I have changed in my 
 views on various subjects within the past twenty years. God 
 in His wise Providence has taken from us some of those 
 we most loved: those with us show no disposition to use 
 their talents to support themselves — (I do not complain, I 
 rather prefer they should not go into business, not thinking 
 they would be successful). There is no part of my journal I 
 read with so much pleasure as that which relates to our dear 
 children departed, particularly Amory, much I loved him. 
 
196 William Appleton [1857 
 
 MAY 1"; Not much appearance of Spring; grays 
 greet green. n M . Our daughter, Mrs. Dexter, de- 
 livered of a Son this morning, we are much relieved from 
 anxiety. \2 th . Went to Mr. Lawrence's, a children's Play; 
 passed the night; quite cold, ice was seen. 13^. Mr. Apple- 
 ton & Son of Beverly at dinner. \b th . We are anxious for 
 our dear Harriet, she has some fever & pain. ij*K Harriet 
 quite ill, more so than yesterday; all of us very anxious. 
 23 rd . The early report from Harriet was that she had a 
 good night, but when Dr. Storer came he said she was 
 not as well as the day before; at two o'clock she showed 
 symptoms of nervous affection by talking without being 
 conscious. I went with her mother to see her; she fell into 
 a sleep which continued the afternoon; at ten o'clock I left 
 and thought she might have a quiet night. i\ th . On go- 
 ing to my dressing-room I found a note from Mr. Dexter 
 saying our dear daughter had expired at *4 past eleven 
 o'clock the last night; it is a great shock to us; she was 
 bright, good & lovely. This is the sixth of our children 
 who have gone before us; five after arriving at the age of 
 maturity, four leaving offspring. We are not like those 
 without hope ; there was no spot of immorality attached 
 to any of them; all died as we believe in full faith of re- 
 demption through Jesus Christ. This last affliction takes 
 one much endeared to a large circle, with many personal 
 attractions; she had a brilliant mind, very decided opin- 
 ions, frank in expressing them; a very constant warm- 
 hearted friend, a most devoted Wife to an adoring Hus- 
 
1857] Diary 197 
 
 band. Their seven years of married life was a most happy 
 period: her constitution not strong, yet with less positive 
 illness than most, she appeared to be almost constructed 
 of nerves. The death of her first child at a few months 
 grieved her much. She had a great pleasure in becoming 
 the mother of another child; she lived two weeks after its 
 birth. He has now the appearance of health & we trust will 
 be a consolation to us all. 26^. This day we followed to 
 the Church & tomb the remains of our dear Harriet. Often 
 have we been called to the sad service, but never more 
 fully were the sluices of grief opened; we loved her much 
 but God has taken her; we try to say, "Thy will be done." 
 It is hard to separate from those we much love, but Nature 
 & the religion we profess tell us we shall meet again. Gor- 
 don is much depressed. 28^. Rode to Brookline with Mrs. 
 Lawrence and her children; it always gives me a great 
 pleasure to be with her. 
 
 JUNE 2 nd , Mr. Dexter with us at dinner, I never saw 
 a more sincere mourner. 4A We removed to Brookline. 
 $ th . Mr. & Mrs. Coolidge with the dear children came 
 to stay with us. 16**. The dear Infant our Harriet left was 
 Christened at their late residence: Mr. Dexter, Grand 
 Mother & myself Sponsors. 17^. Grand celebration plac- 
 ing the Statue of Gen'l Warren on Bunker Hill. 25^. Mr. 
 Dexter took his infant son to Beverly. 27^. Mr. Dexter 
 came with me to Brookline. 
 
198 William Appleton [1857 
 
 JULY 1". Mary Ann Lawrence came to pass some time 
 with us. 2 nd , Took Mary Ann to school on my way to 
 Boston. y h . Went to Beverly with Hetty; baby looking 
 well. i8 M . Mr. & Mrs. Coolidge & the dear children left us 
 for Plymouth, I love them much. 
 
 AUGUST yd, I took Mrs. Appleton to Plymouth, 
 l passed a pleasant evening with our dear Hetty & 
 her little ones. b th . Went to Lynn, dined & went to Nahant, 
 took lodgings with Charles & family. 9^. Attended Meet- 
 ing at Nahant and heard two excellent sermons from Pro- 
 fessor Park. \o th . Went to Boston in the Boat, & went to 
 Beverly to see my friend F. Dexter not doubting for the last 
 time. 14A Mr. Dexter died this morning. 17^. Attended 
 the funeral of my friend, Hon ble F. Dexter. I have known 
 him for forty-five years; strong mind, sincere friend; not 
 as happy a man as he would have been if less fastidious; 
 no settled religious principles. \cf h . Went with Mrs. Ap- 
 pleton to Beverly to see our dear Harriet's Child, fine Boy. 
 24A Went with Mrs. Appleton to Plymouth. 25**. Rode 
 in the woods with Jefferson, walked, talked & passed the 
 day. 
 
 SEPTEMBER 8 M . Much excitement in the commu- 
 nity in relation to the Monetary Affairs, I do not fear 
 anything very bad. 9^. We hear of several failures in New 
 York & Philadelphia. Gov. Allen, V. Allen & Son of Provi- 
 dence failed for a large Amount, Senator U. S. 1 \ th . Much 
 
1857] Diary 199 
 
 distress for money, worth 15 to 18 per ct. \b th . The Strin- 
 gency in the money market rather increases, with some 
 apprehension for the steamer from California. 18^. Sad ac- 
 counts of the Steamer " Central America " with some five 
 hundred passengers and one & a half millions of Specie 
 said to be lost, & the failure of Messrs. Mills & Co., and 
 some smaller concerns. 19^. Went yesterday afternoon, 
 had a long talk with Mr. Francis who has a very large 
 amount of Money in the bank which he is unwilling to 
 use fearing he shall get bad Notes; I think I did much to 
 convince him he might use the money with safety. The 
 failure of C. H. Mills & Co. produces much feeling in 
 the community; it is among our oldest business establish- 
 ments; the firm consists of five persons, all men of good 
 reputation. The members of the House inherited and re- 
 ceived by marriage more than five hundred thousand dol- 
 lars, not one hundred of it is secured by being placed in 
 trust. All were regularly educated to business except Mr. 
 Eliot, who has been but a few years in the House. Three 
 were educated at the College at Cambridge; the two Mr. 
 Mills were from the Country, very much of business men. 
 They have had a commission business for more than twenty 
 years that must have given an income of more than fifty 
 thousand dollars annually, on the average, I think. They 
 have lost their money in entering into many kinds of busi- 
 ness & extending themselves, by which at times they have 
 paid extravagantly for the use of money, but their great 
 loss is in the reduction of Manufacturing establishments. 
 It is said they will pay their debts in full, that their sus- 
 
200 William Appleton D857 
 
 pension is only temporary. My belief is without more 
 knowledge than my neighbours, that if their effects are dis- 
 posed of soon, they will pay but a portion of their liabili- 
 ties, I fear less than the half. 21^. I found on going to 
 the City much excitement on account of failures in Phil d , 
 and it was said Lawrence, Stone & Co. were not able to 
 get on; two per Cent per month was paid on twenty-five 
 thousand dollars, first rate note. I returned home much 
 troubled for my friends and not without apprehension lest 
 I should suffer with others, yet my business could hardly 
 be more compact; income will be much lessened. 22»< I 
 find I am getting old; formerly my own or others' business 
 affairs did not affect my sleep, not so the last night. 23^. 
 Passed most of the day in relation to the affairs of Law- 
 rence, Stone & Co. 24A I am in much doubt what is the 
 position of Lawrence, Stone & Co. and how they stand 
 with the Corporations with which they are connected. I 
 have seldom felt so much anxiety & doubt how to act. 
 25^. I have been all day engaged in endeavouring to get 
 the Bankers to Loan the Bay State, Middlesex, & Pem- 
 berton Corporations five hundred Thousand dollars, in 
 which I have succeeded, but I now doubt if it will effect 
 the object entirely. We hear of the failures of the Bank of 
 Pennsylvania & the Girard Bank in Phil d . 26^. The af- 
 fairs of business appear gloomy; much is said as to whether 
 the Banks in New York & Boston will suspend specie 
 payments, I think they will not, it is not necessary. 28^. 
 Much excitement in the Money market & whether Banks 
 will suspend. 29^. We are told that the Banks in New 
 
1857] Diary 201 
 
 York are strong. op th . We have various accounts from New 
 York, I Telegraphed for information; remained in the City, 
 dined at Mr. N. Appleton's. 
 
 OCTOBER \ st . They say all is strong in New York, 
 it now depends on the Banks; if they do not take 
 the risk of discounting freely they will cause the Merchants 
 to fail, & then stop. Lawrence, Stone & Co. are protested 
 this day, the effect will not be as bad as generally thought; 
 I fear they will not have property to pay their debts. 2 nd . 
 Meeting Merchants was supposed to have been called to 
 ask the Banks to suspend specie payments; it took a dif- 
 ferent course, and they denied any such intentions. I feel 
 less confidence in their strength than I did; if the Banks 
 do not let out money freely there will be a general break- 
 ing up of Merchants & Manufacturing Cos. Had a meet- 
 ing at Mr. J. A. Lowell's, he is much alarmed on account 
 of his liability for the Pemberton Mills; he owns two 
 hundred thousand or ^ of the Stock; 100^ pd, Notes for 
 100-; my belief is that he will not lose as much as his Stock 
 2oo m ; that he will have 300^ Property left. y d . The 
 hardest day for Merchants & traders I have ever seen, 
 money, or the use of it at two to three per cent per month, 
 undoubted paper; several failures; much anxiety for the 
 Steamer from California. I have doubts if the New York 
 and Boston Banks do not have to suspend specie pay- 
 ments — I think they will hold out, but it is uncertain. 
 4A Went to Boston, attended St. Paul's Church, Com- 
 munion; regret much to find myself so much agitated as 
 
202 William Appleton [1857 
 
 to the business of the past week that I could not keep my 
 mind from it during the devotions of the day ; poor miser- 
 able beings, we are. $*K A better feeling exists in our com- 
 munity; the arrival of the Steamer with gold from Califor- 
 nia will give aid and confidence. Fine weather for many 
 days past. 6 M . Things do not appear as bright as yesterday; 
 much distress among those who want to borrow money. 
 j t/l . Removed to Boston. Very busy with other people's 
 affairs. We hear of many failures in New York & Phila- 
 delphia. g f/ *. No relief in the money market; I do not think 
 things can continue in this way many days. 10^. This has 
 been the most trying day tome, The Lyman Mills & Holy- 
 oke on the point of failure ; Mr. Lyman dined with us. 
 i2 //z . There appears but little change in the state of things; 
 none for the better, some failures. 13^. Accounts from 
 New York Bad, the Banks failing; heavy suspensions here; 
 Skinner & Howe, etc. 14A This morning we have the 
 failures of all the Banks in New York. Boston, but not 
 without some opposition, follows. Those who twenty years 
 hence read of this general failure of the Banks in the U. S. 
 will not, nor can I, account for it. A more abundant Har- 
 vest God never blessed us with; more Gold than at any 
 time since the Government was established ; only a mod- 
 erate debt to Europe from individuals; Exchange on Lon- 
 don par to one per Cent, & yet all is at a Stand. Wrote 
 Mr. Bates in relation to Michigan Rail Road. Copy in my 
 letter Book. \$ th . Spent much of the day in relation to the 
 Banks extending their loans; money is as difficult to be 
 obtained as before the Stoppage of Specie Payments. 16^. 
 
1857] Diary 203 
 
 Attended meeting Presidents of the Banks; a good feel- 
 ing prevailed, but they find a new state of things, and are 
 unwilling to act; I think things will become better. Wrote 
 Mr. Bates, sent him Mr. N. Appleton's printed views of 
 the present state of affairs. 17^. This day ends a week of 
 much excitement and chagrin at the failure of the Banks 
 in New York & most of the United States. Many are re- 
 lieved from the pressure for money, but all feel disgraced, 
 and that it might have been avoided. 19^. Most of the 
 morning engaged with Mr. C. G. Loring in relation to the 
 Hampden Company affairs; I feel much interest in him; 
 I think I can do a great benefit to him & his friends with- 
 out loss or much exertion on my part. 10 th . Much occu- 
 pied in business of others & my own. 21^. Meeting was 
 held of some friends of Mr. C. G. Loring, who agree to 
 indemnify me against loss in the Hampden Company. I 
 do not think they fully approve of my undertaking it, but 
 believe I am governed by kind feelings rather than dis- 
 cretion. Went with Mr. Dexter & Mr. Hooper to see the 
 Ship we have bought, at South Boston. II nd . Engaged in 
 the arrangements for the Hampden Company. The Globe 
 Bank offered me twenty thousand dollars; the Merchants', 
 fifty, which I accepted, with Mr. Coolidge's & my name. 
 20f d . Things do not improve in N. York as in Boston. 24A 
 I am requested by several persons interested in our Banks, 
 to go to New York to ascertain what is the intention of 
 the Managers of their Banks as to discounting & resuming 
 specie payments. 26^. Left with William for, and arrived 
 in, N. York at 1 \]/ 2 O.C. P.M. 27^. Called on Mr. New- 
 
204 William Appleton \_ l %57 
 
 bold, Stevens, Tileston, and various other gentlemen in- 
 terested in the Banks ; they feel that it was a mistake in 
 pressing the payments so far as to induce persons to com- 
 pel the Banks to suspend, but the worst is past and things 
 will get into their natural course. Money will be easy ere 
 long. 28^. Arrived & slept at Springfield. 29^. Went with 
 Mr. Loring, Minot, Jackson & Coolidge to the Hamp- 
 den Mills. 31^. Things do not get right, I fear more fail- 
 ures. Mrs. Appleton has a bad cold. 
 
 NOVEMBER 4A Our Ship "Edith Rose" sailed for 
 China; I think well of the voyage; the goods she 
 takes will arrive to a good market & tea will be much 
 lower than early in the season. 5^. At my suggestion, sev- 
 eral persons interested in the Lawrence Machine Co. met 
 and agreed to loan the Company, which if carried into 
 effect prevents there being a failure to meet their indebt- 
 edness. I consider this the most important thing I have 
 done for months; it much affects the interest of Mr. G. W. 
 Lyman and others on their paper. Mrs. A. better. 6 th . Our 
 accounts from Europe are more encouraging. 8^. Mr. Ward 
 & Capt. Swift at my House in relation to the Michigan 
 Rail Road. \o th . Michigan Rail Road Bonds are taken; 
 I have none, I do not like the management. Rev. E. M. P. 
 Wells with us at tea; a good man, with many eccentrici- 
 ties. 13^. We have Telegraphic accounts from England, 
 India & China which appear favourable. 14A Our letters 
 confirm the pleasant intelligence by Telegraph of yester- 
 day, except the prospects of trade from China. We hear 
 
1857] Diary 205 
 
 our Ship "Nabob" is safe, but shall probably lose by the 
 voyage. i6 M . Seventy-one years old; think myself as use- 
 ful to my family & friends as at any period of my life. 
 i8 M . I have been occupied with other persons' affairs; I am 
 most happy when fully engaged in doing what others avoid, 
 in accomplishing what others cannot or will not attempt. 
 25 //; . We have accounts of the Banks of England being 
 allowed to extend their circulation. I fancy it will be fol- 
 lowed by a Suspension of Specie payments. 30^. Much 
 engaged in my business — removed to 8}£ Tremont 
 Street. 
 
 DECEMBER 3 r < Accounts from England show as 
 much over trading as on this side of the water; there 
 will be much dullness in business for the year to come, 
 but we shall soon forget the present troubles. \ th . Our in- 
 formation in detail shows that there is a better feeling in 
 England, yet they are not out of the woods. 8 th . Almost a 
 Spring day, rode with Mrs. Appleton. Quite at leisure by 
 comparison. 10^. No news, things are getting quiet. 11**. 
 Passed an hour with Col. Fremont, a pleasant man. 16^. 
 Sir Charles Fox & son with W m & Jefferson at dinner. Sir 
 Charles is very pleasant, I should like to know more of 
 him. 25^, Xtnas. At Church; sad to think our dear Harriet 
 who communed with us the last year is no more. Why say 
 sad! We loved her much; we shall soon meet again as we 
 trust & believe in a World where there is no death nor sor- 
 row; Blessed Hope. Philosophers without the blessed hope 
 that we should meet again, reconciled themselves in the 
 
206 William Appleton [1857 
 
 death of those they most loved by saying that all must die 
 and whether a few years sooner or later it was not impor- 
 tant, that Life had its disappointments as well as its plea- 
 sures; if they thus reasoned, we with Christian assurances 
 should not ask, Why is it so? 26^. Mr Dexter left us for 
 his apartments in Winter Street; we would have preferred 
 his making our House his home. 30'^. Our streets were cov- 
 ered with ice in the morning; Boys have fine coasting. 
 Mr. Dexter & Master Frank at dinner. 31^. The year is 
 drawing to a close, and in a commercial point one of the 
 most trying of any during my knowledge, not excepting 
 1837. 1 have shared with others in the calamity, but slightly 
 compared with many others. 
 
 1858 
 
 JANUARY I st . The monetary crisis of the past few 
 months produced more distress than that in 1837, yet 
 I do not believe its evils will be so long felt by the com- 
 munity. I will not attempt to speak of the cause of the 
 crisis, there are many, but extravagance in our expenses 
 is among the many, and possibly the foundation of most. 
 A large expenditure leads to a desire to extend business, 
 and over production, caused by an artificial demand when 
 checked, has filled the Warehouses and shops of the world 
 with merchandise, for which the owners expected to obtain 
 the means of paying for it from sales. Manufacturing 
 and producing will be checked & the demand will ere 
 long take the surplus at less prices than was anticipated, 
 
1858] Diary 207 
 
 but the loss will not be like that in 1837, when the invest- 
 ments were made in City lots only known in the imagina- 
 tion. Many of our acquaintances and some of our neigh- 
 bours who thought themselves rich find they have no prop- 
 erty, and the general depression in Rail Road stocks & 
 bonds & Manufacturing Cos. causes much inconvenience 
 & some real distress to persons with means limited to their 
 usual expenditure. No considerable number have been free 
 from the calamity, and for myself, not from any particular 
 foresight, partly from not being over invested, I have suf- 
 fered less than my neighbours in my investments; they be- 
 ing generally made in Companies in operation before those 
 of Lawrence & Holyoke; the losses from investments 
 in those two places are frightful, more than ten Millions 
 of Dollars; they were enterprises of Hon ble Abbott Law- 
 rence & J. K. Mills. The loss to the estate of the former I 
 doubt not will be a Million of Dollars; the latter, all he pos- 
 sessed. I have about six hundred thousand dollars par value 
 in Manufacturing Stocks at this time; they would not sell 
 for four hundred thousand dollars. I bought yesterday, 
 stocks in the Dwight Company for four hundred dollars, 
 I have in the same concern that which I paid one thou- 
 sand dollars for; I have full confidence in the rapid ad- 
 vance in these stocks; they have been years in declining, 
 but will advance rapidly; I expect the stocks I now pur- 
 chase at four hundred dollars will sell for six in one year 
 & eight in two years. We have large dependencies in China 
 and doubtful of the result, but I feel that there will be a 
 good business in the China produce before the affairs of 
 
208 William Appleton [1858 
 
 that region are settled, & goods will fall so as to give a 
 good profit from Calcutta within one year. I do not think 
 my property would sell at this time for more than it would 
 four or five years since; my real estate is more valuable; 
 the House in which I write & have occupied nearly forty 
 years, I refused forty-five thousand for, to Mr. F. Sears, 
 for which, I paid fourteen thousand dollars. I am surprised 
 that I take so active an interest in business; I cannot think 
 it is all for gain, as I feel as much interest & zeal when 
 occupied for others as when for myself; this is to be ac- 
 counted for, in the pleasure of doing what others cannot 
 do, & to get applause for so doing; not a high motive, but 
 better than a sordid one. It has been my intention to retire 
 from Commercial pursuits, but causes not quite within my 
 controul lead me to continue for the present. I have great 
 interest in my sons-in-law Mr. Dexter & Mr. Coolidge & 
 wish to aid them by my advice, and I do not forget the 
 advice of my friend Bowditch : " Continue business while 
 you have health, it will be well for yourself, your family & 
 the community." 2"<Our dear Hetty confined; a healthy 
 daughter, they say. 8^. Bought this day ten Thousand dol- 
 lars of stock in Lyman Mills at Springfield, 42^ per Cent 
 of the cost; Active capital of more than 22 per cent I think 
 the stock will double the present market price & will pay 
 eight per cent div. the next five years on the par value. 
 \o th . At Dr. Vinton's Church in the morning to hear Mr. 
 Mason, brother of Charles H. A.'s Wife. 1 VK At Stand- 
 ing Committee & the Life Office most of the morning. 
 13^. Meeting Stockholders Boston & Providence Rail 
 
1858] Diary 209 
 
 Road. I did not attend; I said I would not serve as a di- 
 rector, but I thought I would not go there and decline. I 
 do not think I agree with the other directors as to the par- 
 ticular interest of the road; I think we should look more 
 to the general interest of railroads, & avoid competition; 
 We shall have a grand quarrel, but I may do good in ar- 
 ranging matters. 15^. Club at my house; present, Judge 
 Shaw, William Sturgis, Nathan Appleton, Thomas Mot- 
 ley, Charles P. Curtis, N. Hale, and C. H. Warren. 21*. 
 Beautiful day. Mrs. Burnham went to see them skate on 
 Jamaica Pond. 30^. Called to see Francis C. Lowell just re- 
 turned from France; very excellent man. 31". Mr. Greene 
 preached before the Society for the Children's Home 1 in 
 Charles Street; — he shew that he can write well & his 
 delivery & manner very acceptable, a most earnest and 
 devoted man; I think he will be less rigid in his theological 
 views if he lives ten years. 
 
 F 
 
 EBRUARY 10^. Went with the Trustees Humane 
 Society to have a photograph taken. 
 
 MARCH $ th . Dined with Trustees of the Humane 
 Society at Dr. Warren's; splendid dinner. 19^. Sale 
 of our tea in New York. Mr. Dexter says it was equal to 
 expectation. op th . Mrs. Coolidge's third daughter chris- 
 tened Sarah Lawrence. Father, Mother, & Mrs. Lawrence 
 were sponsors. 
 
 1 Church Home Society. 
 
210 William Appleton [1858 
 
 APRIL 19^. Went to Mount Vernon with John A. 
 jljl Burnham, found my sister quite ill. On our return at 
 Milford the Horse took fright & ran with the buggy which 
 I was in something like the half of a mile, much to my 
 peril. l\ th . Mrs. Burnham left us after passing the winter. 
 We have and I doubt not she enjoyed her visit. 
 
 MAY \$K Mrs. C. H. Appleton was delivered of a 
 Son at five o'clock this afternoon. 2'6**. Mr. N. Ap- 
 pleton & myself went to Amherst; pleased with the build- 
 ing & arrangements in relation to the funds we gave from 
 Mr. S. Appleton's Estate. 28^. Went with Mrs. Appleton 
 to Brookline & the Laying of the corner Stone for Chapel 
 at Newton; dined at Mr. Greene's. 
 
 JUNE 8 t/l . W m & Jefferson left for a fishing excursion. 
 g t/l . Removed to Brookline; Mrs. Coolidge & children 
 are here for the summer. i^K Engaged in business of 
 Hampden Company; rec d a very complimentary note 
 from C. G. Loring, & others in relation to their Affairs. 
 16^. Went with Judge Warren to New York and stopped 
 at the Brevoort House. 17^. Meeting in relation to the 
 different Rail Road & Steamer Proprietors between Bos- 
 ton & New York; arranged for ferries, etc. 2y*. With Mr. 
 N. Appleton I visited New Ipswich & Temple, where I 
 passed five years of my life, not having been there since. 
 I left at the age of twenty, more than fifty years since ; most 
 of those I knew when residing there have passed to an- 
 
1858] Diary 211 
 
 other existence. David Stiles & Nathan Wheeler who were 
 in the Store with me are living; I saw them, old men. We 
 slept at Mr. Bent's, pleasantly rec d . 
 
 JULY 2 nd . I went with W m to Brookfield; Visited the 
 spot where my father & brothers are laid: the Monu- 
 ment appeared very well and in good taste; slept at West 
 Brookfield after calling on Dr. Snell, 1 Successor to my 
 father. $ th . At his request, called on Dr. Vinton; he told me 
 he was invited to remove to Philadelphia. I said to him 
 so far as my knowledge went there was a uniform feeling 
 of regret at his leaving; others might say more & feel less 
 than myself; the connection with my family was such as 
 not to be severed without pain: during his Ministry he had 
 attended the Weddings of six of our Children, followed 
 four to their tombs, christened seventeen of our Grand 
 Children: should he conclude to leave he would always 
 have my warmest friendship. I had hoped he would have 
 remained while I lived. Attended the Celebration of the 
 day; dined at Revere House, very pleasant, all the services; 
 Mr. Choate & Mr. Everett very happy in their remarks. 
 14A W m and twins at dinner, Mrs. Lawrence and chil- 
 dren; in all, ten Grand Children to see us before leaving 
 for Saratoga. i$*K Mrs. Appleton, Mrs. Burnham & our 
 servant George left for Saratoga Springs; slept at Bellows 
 Falls; good house, delightfully situated. 16^. Left Bellows 
 
 1 He sent $5000 to Dr. Snell and a number of valuable books to lay the foun- 
 dation of a Parish Library which should be held and maintained "for the use of 
 the ministers of the said church forever." 
 
2i2 William Appleton [1858 
 
 Falls at Mid Day; very clear & pleasant atmosphere; 
 very interesting Country we passed. At 5^ P.M., arrived 
 at U. S. Hotel, found our rooms prepared; the place 
 improved, very handsome. 17^. We find several old ac- 
 quaintances, among them Mr. Conrad of New Orleans, 
 Dr. Duncan of Natchez, Mr. J. A. Stevens, New York; 
 the Hotel not crowded. 19^. Mrs. Appleton passed most 
 of the morning with Mrs. Banks, an old friend, formerly 
 Miss Lenox. We met Mrs. Stoeckl, wife of the Russian 
 Minister, & Mr. Chubb of Washington; much talk of 
 Washington friends. 22^. Made & rec d several calls; Rus- 
 sian Minister, Lady & Captain in Russian Service among 
 the number. 24A Find ourselves at home; all well, pleas- 
 ant trip, no accident, with much to gratify us. Y] th . Mrs. 
 Appleton had our children & most of our grand children 
 with us ; Charles Hook's & W m 's Emily's birthday. 
 
 AUGUST &K Went with Mrs. Appleton to Nahant; 
 x\. dined at Mrs. Greene's to meet Lord & Lady Napier, 
 pleasant Party of fourteen. io M . Engaged in arranging to 
 dispatch the ship "Orion" for Calcutta via San Francisco. 
 \of h . Charles' infant quite ill. Rode to see them load the 
 Cars with gravel. 17**. All talk of the Telegraph Cable. 
 21^. Charles' infant very low. 2y d . Attended funeral of 
 J. C. Appleton, infant son of C. H. & Isabella M. Ap- 
 pleton. 
 
 s 
 
 EPTEMBER 6'*. Mr. Shepherd & Mrs. Brooks at 
 tea. Qf h . Went to see Mr. Dexter & the dear boy. 1 I th . 
 
1858] Diary 213 
 
 Went to the City; returned with Mrs. Coolidge & my pet 
 Nora. 21". Mr. Ebenezer Francis died, I have known 
 him for fifty years; a much better man than he has been 
 thought in our community. 2y d . Mr. Francis' funeral, 
 much said of his property. I have never so much felt the 
 vanity of riches. 
 
 OCTOBER \VK Called on Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Davis. 
 lj th . Dedication of the Appleton Chapel at Cam- 
 bridge; services very good. 28^. Mr. & Mrs. & Miss Sils- 
 bee came to pass the day & night with us to attend the 
 wedding of Mr. Hammond & Miss Warren; very large 
 Elegant wedding. 
 
 NOVEMBER 2«< Election of Gov' & Members of 
 Congress, etc. The Principles of the Party better than 
 the men, Republican. 10^. Went with William to New- 
 ton to see Master Frank, well situated we found him. 1 \ th . 
 Went to Somerville; pleased with Dr. Tyler. I have never 
 disposed of money that gives more satisfaction to myself 
 than the buildings I put up there; I shall die with less 
 regret, feeling that if any of mine required an Asylum, 
 there was one befitting their Wants. 13^. Frank with us. 
 Mr. Dexter took his boy to Mrs. Lawrence's. 1 2$ th . Mr. 
 Augustus Thorndike died at Tremont House. 
 
 DECEMBER 2 nd . Dined with party given by Sena- 
 tor Wilson to talk on Tariff; pleasant dinner, and 
 
 1 He stayed there until May, 1864. 
 
214 William Appleton [1858 
 
 I think a useful meeting. Sat to Mr. Ames. 2iX We had 
 at dinner Mr. Morgan of London & Mr. Samuel Dana. 
 24A Meeting Proprietors Vermont & Canada Rail Road 
 as to accepting the Charter; I voted against it, proposing 
 they should first be satisfied that they could obtain the 
 means. 31^. The year about closing commenced with un- 
 usual embarrassments among all classes of our commu- 
 nity; much of the then anxiety has passed but the effect will 
 not be forgotten for a long time. The shipping interest is 
 much depressed, — more ships than there is employment 
 for. The business of William Appleton & Co. has been 
 very small and without profit, probably with a trifling loss. 
 The late advance on Stocks, more particularly Manufac- 
 turing, causes my property to appear One hundred Thou- 
 sand dollars more than at the commencement of the year. 
 During the past year I have had much pleasure in the 
 power to prevent the Hampden Mills from failing, which 
 would have been disastrous to my friend C. G. Loring & 
 others; I was paid for what services I rendered, but what 
 was more gratifying, the feeling expressed of gratitude. 
 Mr. Loring asked me to sit for my Pourtrait, 1 saying he 
 wished his children to remember that I saved him from 
 failing. 
 
 1859 
 
 JANUARY v*. Most persons are engaged in getting 
 dividends or paying visits. 11**. The coldest day for 
 years. The r . -n. 28^. Our next door neighbour & long 
 
 1 Now owned by Mrs. T. J. Coolidge. 
 
1859] Diary 215 
 
 esteemed friend Hon ble W™ H. Prescott died, he will be 
 much lamented; his character as a Historian stands among 
 the Highest of his time; a man of kind feelings, died much 
 beloved. 
 
 FEBRUARY fK Mr. & Mrs. Ward with four children 
 & servant came to our House on their way to Europe, 
 he for China, Minister Plenipotentiary. I think he makes 
 a mistake in giving up his business in Georgia. 1 \ th . Mrs. 
 Lawrence & boys at dinner. 17^. Meeting in Relation to 
 Webster statue. 
 
 MARCH y d . Meeting Proprietors St. Paul's Church; 
 authorized by a vote 43 to 2 to invite Dr. Nichol- 
 son to become our Rector. 1$ th . Engaged in arranging for 
 the sale of Mrs. W™ A. Jr.'s place at Brookline. She gave me 
 written directions to accept an offer of twenty thousand, 
 two hundred fifty dollars. I said to the Broker the place 
 would be sold for that price but not until I knew who was 
 to be the purchaser; he said he was not at liberty to say, but 
 would go to his principal, Shortly he and Mr. Bacon called; 
 Mr. B. said the offer was made supposing all that Dr. War- 
 ren occupied belonged to the place and he should with- 
 draw his offer. I finally, rather than break off the sale, said 
 he might occupy the piece in the garden, while I resided 
 in my House in Brookline, he allowing me a piece near 
 my stable, during the same time, to be used for a garden, 
 to which he assented; neither to gain a permanent title. I 
 think the sale a fair price, but regret my son's leaving us, 
 
216 William Appleton [_ l &59 
 
 but think it is best it should be so. l~] th . Dr. Stone gave us a 
 most splendid sermon on Repentance. 
 
 APRIL 5^. Went to hear Henry Ward Beecher on 
 JT\. Burns; \ only pleased. 2\ st . Mrs. Burnhamleftus; she 
 is a fine woman and much improved. 2~j th . Left with Mrs. 
 Appleton & George (servant) for New York & Philadel- 
 phia. 
 
 MAY 3 r < Left for New York, pleasant passage, met 
 Mrs. N. Appleton at Brevoort House — pleasantly 
 lodged. $ th . Went to Wall Street, some shops, to see some 
 Pictures, bought a carriage, etc. b th . Left for home, hard 
 day's ride, much dust. 13^. Dr. & Mrs. Nicholson came 
 to stop with us; some thirty or forty persons to meet them 
 in the evening. 1$**. Two sermons from Dr. N.; very well 
 received, but long, — 45 & 50 mins. 17'*. Our friends left 
 us; I think well of them. I fancy he will become Rector of 
 St. Paul's, I hope he will; there will be opposition, but he 
 is a Man of talents & discretion & will soon overcome 
 it, I trust and doubt not if he shortens his Sermons. 29^. 
 Charles' wife presented him with a daughter this morning. 
 31^. Mr. Dexter left us for Europe & China. I have much 
 affection & respect for him. 
 
 JUNE 22«< Dined with Mr. Coolidge; 1 Boat Race. 
 26^. At Dr. Stone's church, Bishop Boone preached in 
 afternoon, he came & slept at our House; I gave five hun- 
 
 1 93 Beacon Street. The sea wall and river were directly behind the house. 
 
1859] Diary 217 
 
 dred dollars to China Mission. op th . Mrs. Coolidge con- 
 fined, Child died in the delivery. 
 
 JULY i". Went with Mrs. Appleton to Boston; put the 
 infant of our dear daughter in Tomb under St. Paul's 
 Church. The ways of God are mysterious to us, but all 
 right. 2 nd . Attended meeting of Committee of One Hun- 
 dred in relation to the Webster Memorial; Mr. Everett 
 was not present, his wife in a dying state. We effected our 
 object, more feeling than judgment in the contention. 1 \*K 
 Meeting of committee, Mr. Everett & others, as to plac- 
 ing statue of Mr. Webster. 14A We hear of the death of 
 Mr. Choate at Halifax. A man of extraordinary powers as 
 an orator; none stood higher as an Advocate. 22*< Meet- 
 ing at Faneuil Hall, occasioned by death of Mr. Choate. 
 
 A UGUST4A Went with Mrs. Appleton to Newport, 
 jlV. where we passed six days very pleasantly with W m 
 Jr.'s family. We found them pleasantly situated and dis- 
 posed to make our time pass pleasantly. We met many 
 of our friends and acquaintances, among them, Gov. and 
 Mrs. Fish and family, Gov. Aiken, Mr. and Mrs. Stanley, 
 and Gen 1 Taylor. William and I dined with a pleasant 
 party at Dr. Mercer's of New Orleans. 15^. Some of Mrs. 
 Lawrence's family left for the White Mountains; she re- 
 mained owing to the indisposition of our dear Dexter boy. 
 28^. Uncommon appearance of the sky in the evening. 
 The appearance was what is called Northern light but 
 very bright extending over the whole Hemisphere. 
 
218 William Appleton [1859 
 
 SEPTEMBER 9'*. Put the Webster statue on the 
 Pedestal; much pleased with its appearance. 15 th . En- 
 gaged in arranging for the Webster statue. 16^- We are 
 much in doubt as to the Weather for tomorrow. 17^. All 
 doubts as to weather removed, we have a Violent rain 
 Storm. Mr. Everett delivered the address intended to be 
 spoken in the State House, read at the Music Hall with 
 great applause. We had at dinner Mr. Everett, Dr. Loth- 
 rop, Ex Pres f Pierce, Gov. Fish, Mr. Bartlett, John H. 
 Heard, Professor Felton, Mayor Lincoln, J. H. Shaw, 
 Mr. Ignatius Sargent, Peter Harvey, A. A. Lawrence, 
 W m Amory, W m A. Jr., & T. J. Coolidge. 26^. George L. 
 Appleton came out and passed the night with us, a well- 
 meaning Lad, and if he lives I think he will be respec- 
 table, but not very useful. 27^. Mr. Everett repeated his 
 Oration on the Webster Statue. op th . Mr. Coolidge and 
 family left us, having passed the summer with us much to 
 my gratification. I love them all much. 
 
 NOVEMBER 16^. Old age comes very kindly on 
 me; I am as able to attend to business or pleasure as 
 when half as Old, now seventy-three. I have a large prop- 
 erty and kind wishes of my neighbours, I do not know the 
 person whom I should not take by the hand with pleasure. 
 
 DECEMBER 2 nd . Meeting at Tremont House in re- 
 lation to a general meeting in Faneuil Hall; some 
 Action should be taken. 3^. Passed most of the following 
 
1859] Diary 219 
 
 day in making arrangements for the Meeting on the 8th. 
 7 M . Busy arranging for the Meeting. Mr. Beguin of N. C. 
 passed the evening with us; he thinks separation will come. 
 8 tA . The Meeting at Faneuil Hall was all we could have 
 wished; I spent much time & some money effecting it; 
 I am well satisfied I was right in the effort. Dined at Mr. 
 Paige's with Ex Gov. Lincoln, Everett, Cushing, N. Ap- 
 pleton, Rev. Dr. Blagden etc., pleasant party & a good 
 dinner; Some Rum. io M . Saw Rev. Chandler H. Robbins 
 
 in relation to Rev. ; he thinks people have got tired 
 
 of aiding him, and he has no power to arrange for him- 
 self, — sad case, well-meaning man. I sent him a Note say- 
 ing it was my intention to place stocks to the value of 
 ten thousand dollars in trust for the benefit of himself & 
 Wife, the income to be paid them during their life on my 
 pleasure. 15^. Historical Society, a very delightful meet- 
 ing, speeches by Mr. Everett & others on the Charac- 
 ter of Washington Irving. 18^. At St. Paul's; Mr. John 
 Cotton Smith preached; I feel much interest in him & 
 family. 2l#. Susan Lawrence with us, very bright girl. 25^. 
 This day commences with a bright sun and Clear cold at- 
 mosphere. When we think of the all Glorious event which 
 we this day celebrate, we are lost in wonder that we can 
 hold our Peace, why are we not shouting with Joy that 
 Christ was born to bring life & immortality to light? His 
 teaching & example give "Peace on Earth & good will 
 to men," bring order out of Chaos. Mrs. Appleton much 
 distressed that she could not be with us at Church. I am 
 not a little troubled by her present illness, I fear it will 
 
220 William Appleton [1859 
 
 give her much pain. 26 /7/ . The day is kept as a holiday. 
 We had our children & most of our grandchildren at 
 dinner, & some few in addition in the evening. Mrs. Ap- 
 pleton went to the dinner-table, but suffered much in- 
 convenience. 17 th . Mrs. A. not as well this morning. 
 Passed all the fore part of the day at Hospital Life In s Co. 
 examining accounts. Shall have a nurse tomorrow; our 
 daughters & sons attentive to their Mother; Dr. Jackson 
 visited her, I fancy he thinks her severely ill. 31^. The new 
 year would begin with bright prospects but for the present 
 alarming indisposition of my dear Wife. Drs. Jackson & 
 Warren lead me to think her disease is on the heart and 
 that it is not probable that she will again have her health 
 but that of a delicate invalid; that she may and probably 
 will get up so as to move about, think she is getting well 
 and then be brought down, thus vibrating but not rising 
 above the disease. It is sad, very sad. I have almost from the 
 commencement of our marriage life contemplated from 
 my Age & broken Constitution that when we separated I 
 should be first called — (it may be so) — and from the time 
 I was making my first Will in 1816 She was first consid- 
 ered; I then gave her the half of the property I might have, 
 and in all the changes since I have ever thought of her 
 comfort and independence when I was gone and provided 
 accordingly. This is the first serious illness she has had dur- 
 ing our married life of forty-five years within a few days. 
 We, during that period, have had many, many blessings. 
 We have lived happily (I think) as the World goes, but 
 I would not be understood to say we always thought alike 
 
i860] Diary 221 
 
 and that difference of opinion was always expressed in as 
 mild and considerate terms as it should have been. There 
 was never a want of love, confidence, or respect. She always 
 leaned on me, I always loved her dearly and never doubted 
 her affection for a moment; were I to say there was never 
 a Word passed that was not in harmony, my children, 
 should this come to their eyes, would not give me that 
 credit for sincerity that I wish from them. I am writing 
 under a cloud, a depression of spirits; we may yet live 
 happily together in health. 
 
 i860 
 
 JANUARY 1". Our business, Wm.Appleton & Co., for 
 three years past, after deducting interest, has been so 
 near an even one that I offered to let Mr. Hooper & Dex- 
 ter take the Profit or loss; but they declined; since, they 
 have offered to take it, but I said nay; yet I do not think 
 there can be ten thousand Profit in all. My income the past 
 year must have been one Hundred Thousand dollars, the 
 half at least I expend & give. 2 nd . Much provoked at the 
 course taken in relation to putting down the fare in the 
 B. & P. R.R. i8 M . Mrs. Appleton to my surprise by di- 
 rection of Jackson & Warren rode around the Common. 
 19^. Mrs. A. did as yesterday. Mrs. Charles Amory gave 
 a fancy Ball; Splendid. 28^. Vestry meeting in relation to 
 selling St. Paul's Church, I do not like the idea but stated 
 to the gentlemen I should not be in the way of their wishes 
 but should give no time or take part in the enterprise. 
 
222 William Appleton [i860 
 
 FEBRUARY 1 VK Mrs. Appleton down to dine. \$K 
 Engaged with Mr. Bartlett in relation to the land in 
 the rear of his, 1 mine & Mr. Ropes' Houses. 
 
 MARCH of d . I rode with Mrs. Appleton to Long- 
 wood, the first time she has been there for nearly 
 three months; I examined a site for a house. y h . X rather 
 troubles me; most unaccountable man. If one could work 
 their way to Heaven by good works, I should have been 
 well on the way for my efforts for that family, but gener- 
 ally, they have said all & more than I expected of grati- 
 tude. b th . Mrs. Appleton's birthday; drove around the 
 City; Miss Sally Lawrence at dinner. 20 th . Engaged in 
 arranging Isl & Aug* Thorndike's business with Mr. Dana 
 & Loring. 26 th . Mrs. A. had a bad night. Called on Dr. 
 Warren who went to see Mrs. Appleton, found her alarm- 
 ingly ill; Dr. Jackson was with him in consultation several 
 times in the day; Dr. Oliver slept at our house. 28^. Mrs. 
 Appleton had comfortable night; at her request I remained 
 in the chamber with her, she wished me to tell her what the 
 Physicians said of her illness. I gave her in answer nearly 
 Dr. Jackson's words, which were in substance that she was 
 on the right road and in a few weeks might be as well as 
 ten days since, then able to drive & walk very little. op th . 
 How shall I describe the scene of the last evening which 
 brought to a close the closest of earthly connections and 
 happiness of this life between me and the loved one whom 
 
 x 93 Beacon Street. 
 
i860] Diary 223 
 
 I have cherished and have on all important occasions been 
 supported by, for more than forty-five years. We have had 
 more than the usual blessings that fall to our race; in the 
 eyes of the World all we could desire. We have had many 
 afflictions, ten children born to us ; six have gone before, 
 two sons & two daughters leaving children, severe trials 
 to us, but we were consoled in their religious characters; 
 all, members of our Church. In the severe trials she shew 
 much more strength of character than I found in myself; 
 on trifling occurences she would show a want of these 
 qualities. Kind at heart, sincerely loved by those who could 
 best judge of her, my impressions are that she was, with- 
 out putting herself forward in society, uniformly pleasing 
 to her contemporaries & respected by the younger portion 
 of the community. She was a Communicant in the Epis- 
 copal Church before we were married and as I think a 
 consistent Christian. 31^. I passed a sad night; my nerves 
 so much disturbed I could not get my sleep as usual, but 
 better than the night before. Many friends called to offer 
 their consolation & services. Children all attention to me. 
 
 A PRIL I st , Sunday. I sent for our children, we all met 
 jLjL together, Read the Good Book, and united in Prayer. 
 2 nd . This day the remains of my dear Wife were taken to 
 St. Paul's Church; the funeral services read by Dr. Nichol- 
 son in a subdued and most acceptable manner to a large 
 congregation; from there we went to Mount Auburn & 
 deposited the body by the side of my Mother, four of our 
 children & two Grand children. 4^. Kind Children & friends 
 
224 William Appleton [i860 
 
 came to sympathize with me. "] th . Rec d many very kind 
 letters, among them from Bishop Potter & Dr. Vinton. 
 8 M , Easter Sunday. Attended Church; sad not to have 
 my dear Wife to go with me, but God rules the World 
 and all in Mercy. Would I could say Amen, in Truth. 
 \o th . I have only been out to see Hetty's Children; been 
 looking over Mrs. Appleton's papers & journal, sad, but 
 many marks of kindness & wisdom, always frank & hon- 
 est. \2 th . Mrs. Coolidge & Mamie at dinner. 14A Mr. 
 Coolidge & family have joined me ; I trust it will prove 
 a pleasant arrangement; he says & wrote me he was dis- 
 posed to come, yet it must be a great sacrifice to him to 
 give up their Establishment; I shall do all I can to make 
 it pleasant. \$ th . At Church; Confirmation by Bishop: six- 
 teen females, one male. \b th . Hetty much engaged in remov- 
 ing their furniture. 17^. Busy in arranging for Hetty's 
 Household. 19^. Charles went to reside at 93 Beacon St. 
 23^. Randolph Coolidge & Miss Gardner called in the 
 evening, I doubt if they are ever married. 
 
 MAY \$*K Went to Brookline preparing to sell 
 House. i8 M . Went to Concord with Dr. Shattuck; 
 found Frank quite well & pleasantly situated. 24A The 
 House that we resided in for twenty years in Brookline 
 I sold this day for twenty-three thousand dollars; about 
 the cost of the buildings; great changes have taken place 
 in our family since I built the House. We had much 
 pleasure in the residence; I sold it with many regrets, but 
 neither of my Children wished to retain it. 25^. Went to 
 
i860] Diary 225 
 
 Brookline to meet Mr. Henry Upham who purchased my 
 House; he appears satisfied with the purchase but I think 
 he made a mistake in so doing. The three dear children 
 went with me. 30^. Our dear W m with his family left for 
 Europe; I regret his absence, his attentions to me have 
 been uniformly administered, I love him much. 
 
 JUNE l*. I called on Mr. & Mrs. Henry of Tennessee, 
 took them to ride; he made a speech at the Union 
 Meeting. 2 nd . Mr. & Mrs. Henry & son were at dinner; 
 good People, I am much pleased with them. & th . Remov- 
 ing the furniture from Brookline; sad at the giving up of 
 the place, but all right 13^. Meeting directors Salmon 
 Falls Company. 
 
 JULY 13^. Accompanied by Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence I 
 went to their House at Longwood. 16^. I have had a 
 delightful visit, Sarah is one of the best of Wives, Mothers, 
 friends & housekeepers; all order & not fuss. 
 
 AUGUST 17^. Returned from Boston to Newport with 
 b Sarah's daughter Susie, a nice little girl. 18^. Very 
 quiet, rode to the village with Hetty; very pleasant to be 
 with the Children. 
 
 SEPTEMBER $* Wrote Mr. Grinnell in relation to 
 the approaching election, saying: "Are the greatest 
 portion of our State, Abolitionists^ I think not. This can be 
 tested & should be by the approaching election of Gov- 
 
226 William Appleton [i860 
 
 ernor. It will not be an easy thing to accomplish but I feel 
 in my bones it can be done & should be ; this in my opinion 
 depends on Gov. Clifford. We can bring about a union for 
 him, and no other person; see him & write me his decision 
 at Boston, or come up, which will be better. If you do not 
 get this in time to write, Telegraph me, 54 Beacon Street, 
 yea, or nay. I go to Boston tomorrow (Thursday); shall be 
 there Friday & possibly Saturday. I am requested to go up 
 in relation to raising funds for the campaign; I do not intend 
 going into the fight to be beaten. They say with twenty 
 thousand dollars to print and distribute documents, etc., etc., 
 they can carry the State. I think it very important, and as 
 at present advised, if Mr. C. will consent to be a candidate 
 I will say to the gentlemen when we meet, I will furnish 
 one fifth of the amount required, whether it be twenty or 
 thirty thousand dollars. On the decision of Mr. C. depends 
 my action. This note strictly private, except with Gov. Clif- 
 ford." 7 th . Rec d letter from Mr. Grinnell; not settled as to 
 Gov. C.'s action. \\ th . Engaged in looking after my busi- 
 ness affairs and Politicks, dined at Mr. Bartlett's. At Mr. 
 Everett's & Mr. Winthrop's in the evening. 15^. Meeting 
 in relation to funds for Campaign. It is hopeless the idea 
 of electing Bell & Everett party in Mass tts , yet I rather 
 give money with others than say "No." 19^. I left New- 
 port at 7 O'C. with servants and baggage. Mr. & Mrs. 
 Coolidge in Afternoon: all arrived safe. 22 nd . Mr. Lyndsay, 
 M. P., from London, Mr. Hooper & Mr. Sturgis dined with 
 us. 24A Meeting Board of Trade. Mr. Lyndsay made 
 statements in regard to Commerce. 26^. Mr. Stevenson 
 
i860] Diary 227 
 
 & Bacon wished me to allow my name to be used as Can- 
 didate for Congress, which I declined. 27^. Committee for 
 nominating me called on me : I told them I could not ac- 
 cept the nomination at this time, but would consult with 
 my friends. 
 
 OCTOBER 2 nd . Engaged in arranging for Charles' 
 & family's voyage. y d . Charles, wife & children left 
 us for a voyage to Europe; I am sad at their leaving me 
 but they have my consent. b th . Passed most of the morn- 
 ing in getting a dispute between the Chicopee Company 
 & the Banks arranged. Mr. Lodge & Ignatius Sargent 
 much interested; they agree to refer it; I think the Banks 
 will not recover. 10^. Went to New Haven to attend Board 
 of Missions. 13^. Meeting of the directors of B. & P., 
 Worcester and Fall River & Old Colony Rail Roads at 
 my office. \$ th . The Standing Committee at my House 
 agreed to a 2nd Parish in Cambridge, contrary to my Judg- 
 ment. \b th . Mr. Coolidge returned from deer Killing; I am 
 glad to see him home. lj*K Prince of Wales arrived; went 
 to Longwood to meet him. 18^. Splendid Ball for the 
 Prince. I went as one of the Committee to take him & in- 
 troduce him at the Ball. 2o /;/ . Appearance of storm. Prince 
 left and embarked at Portland; all was most fortunate dur- 
 ing his Visit. Some Gen tn were at my house to examine Mr. 
 Thorndike's wine. 24A We are much interested in the 
 Approaching Election. Mr. Hillard of Alabama spoke at 
 F. Hall. 25 //z . At the particular request I dined with Mr. 
 Everett to meet Mr. Hillard. 
 
228 William Appleton [i860 
 
 NO V E M B E R $ th . Very exciting day. At evening was 
 Complimented by a Torch Light Procession, very 
 well arranged; I made a short speech. The feeling of my 
 friends is that I shall be elected to Congress. The other side 
 is equally confident. I do not think I shall be elected nor 
 do I in my heart wish it. 6^. At three o'clock I went to 
 Vote, found the report of chances in favour of Mr. Bur- 
 lingame. Mr. Coolidge reported at four o'clock that as ad- 
 vices were from Cambridge Mr. B. must be elected. Went 
 with Hetty to Longwood, told them what we supposed 
 was the result of the Election; I said I was pleased; the 
 dear daughters, Mrs. Lawrence & Coolidge, said, "If you, 
 Father, are satisfied, we are delighted, we never wished you 
 to go again to Washington." On our return we found the 
 report was that I was elected; and before nine o'clock our 
 street was crowded with those who favoured my Election, 
 with musick, Torch Light procession, etc., etc. Mr. J. T. 
 Stevenson addressed me from the Crowd; I made some 
 remarks & was followed by Mr. Hillard & several other 
 gentlemen; the Crowd continued until near eleven o'clock; 
 at Twelve Gent n came & serenaded us, Mr. Coolidge gave 
 them some Wine. 7 th . Much excitement in the City; the 
 whole Lincoln Ticket in the State elected, but in my dis- 
 trict; and some talk of questioning the correctness of that; 
 rather tired, — Mr. Coolidge done up. 8^. Much pleased to 
 have my Grand Children with us at dinner, Copley & Eliza 
 Greene, who returned yesterday from Europe. Many letters 
 congratulating me on my Election, I wish I was out of 
 
i860] Diary 229 
 
 the affair; I will make the best of it. \2 th . Some excitement 
 by the news from the South. i6 M . Seventy-four years Old. 
 My health as good as most persons of my age; I walk up 
 stairs as quick as when much younger, my weight is about 
 the same as for twenty-five years, not varying more than 
 one or two pounds from one hundred; my memory in most 
 things is not to be depended on. My opinion on business 
 subjects is considered as good as formerly. I believe I am 
 much more valued in the community than I justly de- 
 serve; my reputation as a man of business is high, but this 
 is from success; I have been fortunate through life. I 
 have had many severe trials, but the death of my dear wife 
 changes all my plans for this existence, she is continually 
 in my mind; I loved her much more than I could have 
 supposed and all my recollections of her are most pleasing. 
 My children are all attention and my interest in Mr. & 
 Mrs. Coolidge and our dear little ones, is very great. My 
 home is made all that can be to meet my comfort. Dined at 
 W m ' s with Jefferson, Hetty, Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence, Mary 
 Ann, Sally and Mrs. Burnham & Dr. Vinton, who has 
 come to pass a few days with us. \*]*K Went to Nantas- 
 ket and to Minot's Ledge light House with Dr. Vinton, 
 Mr. Coolidge & W m ; very interesting day. 20^. Dinner 
 Party of twenty to those most active in my Election to 
 Congress, consisting of Messrs. Bacon, Paige, Stevenson, 
 Beebe, Richardson, Hallett, Pierce, Bush, Bigelow, A. A. 
 Lawrence, James Lawrence, making a party of younger 
 men; quite pleasant; remained at table until ten O'Clock. 
 22"< Much Excitement as to our Banks suspending spe- 
 
230 William Appleton [i860 
 
 cie payment. 25 th . Received a letter from Gov. Aiken, full 
 of Secession. Things look bad in S. Carolina. 27^. A din- 
 ner party of twenty; all political parties; it went off well. 
 Dinner: Oysters in Shell, Soup, Fish, Boiled Capon & 
 Ham, Oyster Pates, fried Chicken, Croquettes, Sweet 
 Bread; Punch Frozen, Game, Pudding, Jelly, Blanc 
 Mange & Fruit. 29^, thanksgiving Day. No family meet- 
 ing. These anniversaries make one sad — the dear One 
 having gone. 30^. Much talk as to money; excitement 
 continues without cause that I can see. 
 
 DECEMBER &K Meeting at Mr. Winthrop's with 
 Mr. N. Appleton, Gov. Clifford, Mr. Grinnell, & Mr. 
 Silsbee, in relation to the State of the Country; very de- 
 spondent in their feelings. 8 t/l . Talk of going to Washing- 
 ton, requested by Mr. Winthrop, Gov. Wells & Mr. Ever- 
 ett. 10^. Meeting of gent mn in relation to state of Country. 
 Present: Mr. Everett, Winthrop, Benjamin R. Curtis, Sid- 
 ney Bartlett, Beebe, Haven, Ticknor, Tobey, Paige, Amos 
 A. Lawrence. 12^. Left for Washington with W m , Mr. 
 W m Amory & our servant George. 13^, New York. Went 
 to the business part of the City, saw many persons; finan- 
 cial affairs in a better state, but of political subjects there 
 is great anxiety, much more than in Boston. In after- 
 noon, went to Philadelphia. Mr. Read passed the evening 
 with us, very much excited in mind; he said he would go 
 to Washington. Called on Mr. Ingersoll and found him 
 much troubled; all alarmed. 15^. In afternoon, went to 
 Washington, at Willard's, pleasant rooms & well situated. 
 
i860] Diary 231 
 
 16^. Rec d many calls, all talking of Secession; there is 
 great doubt & gloom. Went to church, made some calls 
 on Senators, Lord Lyons, Stapleton, etc. 17^. Went to 
 the Senate, pleased by the kind reception from my Old 
 friends & Acquaintances; dined at Mr. Corcoran's with 
 Lord Lyons, Senators Mason, Hunter, Slide 11, Benjamin & 
 others. Mr. Read arrived from Philadelphia. 18^. Called 
 on President with Mr. Read, not much conversation. Long 
 talks with Mr. Ewing & Vinton, Foster, Toucey, Critten- 
 den & others. 19^. The President sent his Secretary to ask 
 me to dine ; I went; only the Pres*, Secretary, Miss Lane and 
 myself. He was cheerful, talked freely of the State of affairs; 
 I fancy he has more hope than most; he is quite deter- 
 mined that if there is aggression in South Carolina, it shall 
 come from them. He talked of the state of the Forts at 
 Charleston, the only force that could be sent was at Nor- 
 folk or Old Point Comfort, the School for Exercise & the 
 Men of War. He feels what is said as to not reinforcing 
 the Forts at Charleston; and I could not but think he un- 
 derstood what was to be & might be done to relieve the 
 garrison should there be an attack or one threatened; he 
 said nothing that would authorize me more than to sur- 
 mise, probably without good reason, yet I felt more com- 
 fortable than from talking with anyone else. 10 th . Passed 
 the day as usual going to the Capitol, hearing various 
 opinions, changing my mind as to the future, etc., etc. No 
 parties of any kind, all anxiety & gloom yet not with- 
 out hope, but no present light. 21#. Went to the Senate. 
 Mr. Toombs took me to the Committee room; we talked 
 
232 William Appleton [i860 
 
 pleasantly and I could not but feel that if there was as 
 much disposition on the part of the Republicans as there 
 might be, as much as on the part of the South, things 
 might be arranged; yet I do not know what would satisfy 
 them; their troubles are not all with the North; the Aboli- 
 tionists have done much to produce them. Left at evening 
 with Mr. Read, passed pleasant evening with Mr. Ken- 
 nedy; he is, like others, very anxious. 24A Arrived in New 
 York, saw many business people, they are much troubled 
 as to Political situation of the Country; dined with Mr. 
 John C. Green. 25^, Xmas. My dear children agreed with 
 me that we should not enjoy our usual family meeting on 
 this Anniversary of my dear wife's & their Mother's alarm- 
 ing illness. I took the cars, had a pleasant trip home in 
 eight & a half Hours from New York. When we reflect, 
 and view the present state of this Country, but as yes- 
 terday enjoying greater privileges than any nation of 
 ancient or modern times, apparently about to abandon 
 the Institutions that have made us, since I was born, from 
 a poor feeble people of three or four Millions to one of 
 Thirty, ranking among the important Nations of the earth, 
 to throw ourselves into chaos without any real cause, we 
 must feel that our Sins are such that we must have im- 
 mediate Chastisement; we say continually, God rules the 
 World, and all in mercy; I see nothing but His power to 
 overrule the Wills of selfish wicked men that can save us 
 from what would appear the greatest calamity that could 
 come to our Country. God preserve us. 26^. I enjoyed 
 much the meeting of my children and their dear little ones; 
 
1861] Diary 233 
 
 I feel that my affections are greater than formerly, possi- 
 bly from having fewer to love. Those who have departed 
 are almost always in my mind. I shall in the course of 
 nature soon follow. 29^. My cough troublesome, applied 
 a mustard poultice; bad night. 
 
 1861 
 
 JANUARY i sf . Our political atmosphere is dark, more 
 so than at any time within my recollection; Madness 
 rules the hour. Our glorious Union is in very great danger. 
 I returned the last week from Washington; I could not 
 hear any plan offered likely to unite the various parties; 
 Republicans and Secessionists, uncompromising; the Presi- 
 dent not in favour; I believe he intends to do what will 
 promote the continuance of the Union. My impression is 
 that most of the Cotton States will follow South Carolina, 
 the Border Slave States will attempt to reconcile the diffi- 
 culties, but will not easily succeed; a long time will pass, 
 much anxiety & distress, but eventually a new Confedera- 
 tion will be formed or the Constitution Amended; this will 
 not be effected under President Lincoln's Administration, 
 or my life. To our family the past has been an eventful 
 year : it has pleased God to call the Wife of my youth 
 the Mother of my Children from this Earth, an event not 
 anticipated by me — otherwise, that I should go first. The 
 immediate shock having passed, left as I was alone, my 
 children all seeking my happiness deemed it expedient 
 that Mr. & Mrs. Coolidge with their dear children, should 
 
234 William Appleton [1861 
 
 remove to my house, which has proved a happy arrange- 
 ment for me, and I trust for them; they so appear to think 
 it. I have been again elected to Congress; not in concur- 
 rence with my judgment, but I was flattered into assenting 
 that my name should be used, and much pleased by the 
 many, many congratulations on the result. If I live &have 
 sufficient health, I shall undertake the responsibilities which 
 I feel much, as I am old, and my faculties much impaired. 
 The prospect for the coming year for our Manufacturers 
 is bad; if merchandising is bad, Rail Road Stocks must 
 suffer, rents will fall; all kinds of property as a general rule 
 will produce less; and should it lead to reducing our ex- 
 penses generally, good will follow. Since my return from 
 Washington I have been mostly confined to the house with 
 a severe cough; being withdrawn from the world I am led 
 to reflect on myself & position. That I should have as 
 much reputation for talents as I have at home and abroad 
 quite bewilders me. Very much flattered at Washington, 
 I feel the responsibilities. By age & other circumstances I 
 am admonished my days are numbered & few. \ th . A Gen- 
 eral Fast has been recommended by Pres* of U. S. 7 th . Most 
 uncomfortable night I have had, coughed by the Hour 
 during the last night. 
 
 MARCH. I am now at the close of March, having 
 been confined in my House most of the time since 
 writing in this book. I have had very little to annoy me, 
 almost without pain, as much appetite as necessary for me 
 without more exercise, generally sleep well, sometimes an- 
 
1861] Diary 235 
 
 noyed by coughing, every possible attention from my chil- 
 dren, & great pleasure in the prattle of the dear grand 
 children belonging to our immediate family, & from those 
 coming to visit us. I find I cannot take the air freely with- 
 out bringing on the cough, and I have nearly decided to 
 go to South Carolina, to leave the next week, either in 
 the Steamer from this City or N. York. My belief is that 
 a change will have a good effect on my health, but I still 
 think it not important whether I die in my seventy-fifth 
 year or later. I regret leaving my long tried friend Mr. 
 N. Appleton; my belief is I shall find him when I return 
 but that is quite doubtful. My friends and Acquaintances 
 have been very attentive; that I may recollect who came 
 to see me I have kept a record in part, as follows : Mr. 
 Sidney Bartlett, Judge Warren, Mr. Sears, Mr. Whitwell, 
 Mr. N. Appleton, Mr. Winthrop, Mr. Brooks, Mr. Ever- 
 ett, Dr. Jackson, Mr. Edw. Jackson, Mr. W m Sohier, Col. 
 Aspinwall, Dr. Blagden, Jon n Mason, Dr. Lawrence, Dr. 
 Nicholson, Mr. Timmins, Bishop Eastburn, Rev. Dr. Mer- 
 cer, James S. Amory, Rev. Dr. Mason, Mr. T. C. Amory, 
 Mr. Israel Whitney, W m Amory, Mr. George W. Lyman, 
 Mr. S. Hooper, Mr. Thos. Motley, Mr. Beebe, Mr. Sam 1 
 T. Dana, Mr. F. Bacon, Mr. Sam 1 Frothingham, Mr. 
 James Lawrence, Mr. Andrew T. Hall, Mr. R. B. Forbes, 
 Mr. Ticknor, Mr. Sam 1 Ward, Mr. W™ Gray, Mr. Sulli- 
 van Warren, Mr. Jos. S. Gardner, Mr. W m H. Gardiner, 
 Mr. S. V. Ward, C. G. Loring, Mr. C. Amory, Mr. W™ 
 B. Reynolds, Col. Emery, Dr. Lyman, Mr. J. Hall, Mr. 
 J. Cushing, Mr. W™ Sturgis, Mr. H. Shaw, Mr. E. A. 
 
236 William Appleton [1861 
 
 Bourne, Mr. Edgar, Mr. F. C. Lowell, Mr. Jos. Coolidge, 
 Pres't Sparks, Mr. Ives, Mr. Silsbee, Mr. Walley, Mr. 
 Wigglesworth, Mr. Hallett, Mr. Sargent, Mr. Geo. B. Dex- 
 ter, Gov. 1 Wells, Genl Pierce, Mr. Blake, Mr. A. A. Law- 
 rence, Mr. Rice, Mr. Ritchie, Mrs. Sears, Mrs. Wormley, 
 Mrs. N. Amory, Miss Amory, Miss Dexter, Mrs. Brim- 
 mer, Mrs. Howland Shaw, Madame Greene, Miss Greene, 
 Miss Bartlett, Miss R. Amory, Mrs. Hooper, Miss 
 Hooper, Miss Gardner, Mrs. Gardner, Mrs. J. S. Amory, 
 Mrs. Cushing, Mrs. Bartlett, Mrs. Brooks, Mrs. d'Haute- 
 ville, Mrs. Warren, Mrs. S. Appleton, Miss Goodwin, 
 Mrs. Franklin Dexter, Mrs. Mason. 31^, Easter Sunday. 
 Went to St. Paul's for the first time since the first Sunday 
 in December; I was much pleased with the sermon and 
 musick, felt the solemnity of the Communion. William & 
 family as usual at Tea & in the evening. 
 
 A PRIL \ th . Left, with Mrs. Coolidge and my servant 
 JT\. George, for a trip to the South via N. York. Slept at 
 Springfield; arrived at the Brevoort House at five O'clock 
 Friday, Mr. Amory came late at night. 6^. We expected 
 to have departed on the steamer "Nashville" this day, but 
 we are delayed without knowing the cause. J**. Hetty & 
 her friend passed some time with me. 9^. At four O'clock 
 we went on board the Steamer " Nashville " for Charleston. 
 Was told the vessels that had departed a few days since 
 were bound to Charleston to reinforce Fort Sumter; we 
 doubted the fact. Our passage was rough, something of a 
 
 1 Of New Hampshire. 
 
i86i] Diary 237 
 
 gale. Mr. Amory, my good friend, in his berth; my servant 
 ill the whole passage; I was among those the most active 
 at dinner & tea. We arrived off Charleston Bar on Thurs- 
 day evening; the Steamers " Atlantic," "Harriet Lane " and 
 two armed Vessels near where we were moving slowly dur- 
 ing the night, waiting the rise of the tide that we might 
 cross the Bar. About four o'clock Friday morning we were 
 apprised by the sound of Cannon, that an Attack was made 
 on Fort Sumter; after some time the fire was returned with 
 vigor, firing at Fort Moultrie & again at the Batteries 
 on Morris Island & other Works. The interest & excite- 
 ment was great; every flash we could see; then the smoke; 
 then followed the report; the bomb shells we saw ascend & 
 would anxiously watch whether they fell in Fort Sumter, 
 from which place no shells were sent, having no mortars. 
 The firing was continued during Friday without any long 
 cessation from either party ; at one time we thought most 
 of the men in the Fort must be destroyed by fire, but 
 again they shew they were alive by commencing again 
 their works. The firing stopped in the afternoon of Satur- 
 day; we were compelled to remain outside the Bar until 
 Sunday morning. On arriving in the City, finding no one 
 killed, produced emotions of gratitude in my breast that I 
 have seldom or never before felt. I went to Church; pleased 
 with the discourses & services. Mr. W m B. Pringle took 
 me to Church; made some calls, saw a great collection of 
 Ladies and Gent n on Bay Street. At the Hotel saw many 
 acquaintances, was pleasantly rec d ; my health much im- 
 proved. Telegraphed to our friends in Boston. Charleston 
 
238 William Appleton [1861 
 
 much improved since I was there in 1843. l S th - R°de to 
 the farms with fine Kitchen gardens with Mrs. Rose; Dr. 
 Rutledge & Lt. Rutledge came in; much kind attention 
 from old friends. 17^. Went to Fort Sumter under permis- 
 sion from Gen 1 Beauregard, with the Mayor, a party not 
 to exceed twelve; a most awful wreck; one cannot realize 
 that no one should have been killed. 19^. We left by rail 
 for Adams Run where we found carriages to take us to 
 Mr. Aiken's; Mr. W m Elliott & Mr. Aiken's nephew with 
 us, kindly received; took a walk over the Plantation, an 
 Island of five thousand acres; they cultivate rice, about 
 twenty-two Hundred Barrels; seven to eight hundred ne- 
 groes, large portion young; great care taken of them; only 
 five white persons on the Island. 20^. Rode with Mrs. 
 Aiken; Mr. Amory and Mr. Aiken walked most of the 
 day; I was not quite well, got some cold in crossing to the 
 Island. Sunday we rode to Edesto where there are a col- 
 lection of Houses, Churches, etc., etc. 22 w ^. We left our 
 kind friends; went to Mr. W m Elliott's, Adams Run; passed 
 the day; pleasant place; some company at dinner; very 
 kind family, early acquaintances of Mrs. Appleton & my- 
 self. 23^. Took Cars for Savannah; met Mr. John E.Ward 
 going home from China. At the depot George Appleton 
 greeted us; found his mother at the hotel. 24A We went 
 & passed the day with my daughter & Grandson; found 
 them pleasantly situated. Having made an engagement to 
 go to Mr. Arnold's Plantation and other arrangements, we 
 concluded to give them all up and make our way home 
 via Macon, Atlanta, Nashville, Louisville, Frankfort, Cin- 
 
1861] Diaiy 239 
 
 cinnati, Columbus, Pittsburg, to PhiR We passed Sunday 
 at Gov. Bell's, Nashville. I was most kindly entertained 
 & cared for; I needed such refreshments as I rec d . Passed 
 a day at Cincinnati. 
 
 MAY 5^, Sunday. Arrived at Philadelphia; quite 
 bright; dined at Mr. C. Francis Fisher's. 6 M . I find 
 myself with a severe sore throat and cold. Mr. Amory 
 having left me, I am quite down, confined to the house. 
 8 f/l . Not any better; got telegraph W m & Sarah coming. of h . 
 Mrs. Lawrence, Maria & William Jr. arrived, very glad 
 indeed to see them. 14A Got home, right glad to see my 
 dear children and others I much love. Mr. N. Appleton 
 better than I expected to find him. 15^. Much talk of my 
 resignation of my seat in Congress; agreed to refer the 
 question to Drs. Jackson & Warren. 16^. They think I had 
 better not go to Congress. 18^. Report of Drs. J. & W. that 
 I may go to Congress under restrictions; I rather like it. 
 2i J/ . Almost confined to the House with pain in my face; 
 much swollen. TL nd . Suffered severely all the last night 
 & most of the day; began poulticing my face hourly for 
 some twelve hours when relief was obtained by suppura- 
 tion. 23 r < Left for New York & slept at Brevoort House. 
 l$ th . Arrived in Washington; Mr. Corcoran met me at the 
 Cars; pleasantly situated with him. 26^. At Dr. Hall's 
 Church; remained at the Communion; called on Mr. Sew- 
 ard; pleasantly Rec d . iq th . Called at Navy Department, 
 saw Secy etc., called on Gen 1 Totten. 28^. Made calls at 
 the State & Treasury Departments, rode to the Asylum for 
 
240 William Appleton [1861 
 
 Insane. 29^. Went to call on French Minister at George- 
 town, on the Russian & English Ministers, rode with Mr. 
 Renwick & Mr. C. to see the Camp & Mr. Corcoran's 
 farm. 30^. Concluded to return to Boston. Made several 
 P. P. C.'s & left at 6 P.M. 
 
 JULY \ st . Left by seashore line for Washington with 
 Judge Thomas. \ th . At House; chose Speaker & Clerk; 
 I had dinner party of our Representatives, 10 present. $ th . 
 Business at the House not of much interest, other than 
 Pres t>s Message. 7 th . Very hot; most done up. 8^. At the 
 House; appearances are that the session will not be long. 
 13^. At Committee; called on Mr. Seward & Lord Lyons. 
 My relative, 1 whom I much loved, the second daughter of 
 Mr. N. Appleton, was this day interred; she endeared her- 
 self to me by her kind attention to my dear W m while on 
 his deathbed at Schaffhausen in 1836. She was a lovely 
 woman, a great favourite; came to her death by her clothes 
 taking fire while sealing a letter or making some seals. 14A 
 Went this morning to Mr. Stevens, Chairman of the Com- 
 mittee of Ways & Means, to get his consent to telegraph to 
 Boston & New York that there was no cause for alarm as to 
 their goods in Bonded Ware House; while at the telegraph 
 office, rec d Telegram announcing the death of my long 
 loved friend Mr. N. Appleton. I had said I would return 
 on his decease, but I was told and believed my duty was in 
 this place. A bill for raising revenue was before the Com- 
 mittee of Ways & Means; no other Merchant is on the 
 
 1 Mrs. Henry W. Longfellow. 
 
1861] Diary 241 
 
 Committee; I remained & got for our shipping Merchants 
 much advantage as to when the duties should take effect, 
 & on the Ware house goods ; I feared if I left, it might be 
 changed in the House or Senate. I will not speak of the 
 virtues of my dear departed friend, his character will be 
 fully related by others; great purity of heart he possessed. 
 17 th . Very busy with tariff Bill, then went to the Treasurer 
 in relation to his project on wines & spirits; he said they 
 had but imperfect information; was quite satisfied with the 
 view of Committee who sent me. 18^. The bill for increas- 
 ing Revenue passed the House. Went to see the Massa- 
 chusetts Troops. 19^. Much excitement as to our troops 
 in Virginia. 20^. House not in session; at Committee. Din- 
 ner at Mr. Crittenden's, with Sumner & the Committee of 
 Ways & Means; Wilson was invited; good dinner, pleas- 
 ant party. 2VK On leaving my bed I found myself in pain 
 which was continuous through the day, but not severe. 
 The Physician called three or four times; ate nothing, have 
 had nausea & occasional pains for most of the time since 
 I arrived in this city. 22*4 Slept the last night, but find 
 myself quite weak this morning. We have sad accounts of 
 our Army, total defeat as appears by report. I pass the day 
 on the sophy. 26^. Dr. B. told me to go home as soon as I 
 could. 30^. Quite feeble. Went to the Committee room 
 and found all present; stated to them that I felt my health 
 was failing and asked if in their opinion there was any- 
 thing I could do for my constituents that would justify 
 my remaining in Washington. Mr. Stevens complimented 
 me for my usefulness & said the work was done as to the 
 
242 William Appleton [1861 
 
 tariff, a Committee of Conference would do all; that he be- 
 lieved our bill would be sustained. They all took me by 
 the hand and said they hoped I would return again in De- 
 cember, etc., etc.; I was most kindly rec^ & treated by the 
 Committee, in fact by all. At 5^ O'C. left for Baltimore. 
 
 A U GUST i si '. Arrived at Newport, found all well, glad 
 JTjL to be with those I most love. F ] th . Dr. Dunn came to 
 see me evidently thinking I required nothing but rest; 
 there is none with me; in afternoon much pain. S th . Re- 
 tired at ten o'clock with a Jug of hot water on my stom- 
 ach. I got a nap of an hour or two; got up, took medicine 
 & went to bed where I remained until 1 1 O'clock; I sent 
 for Dr. Dunn; told him I needed active treatment; he con- 
 sented to my taking some magnesia. \o th . Rode morning 
 and evening, felt better, ate plover, no bread nor Vege- 
 table; I think more exercise will benefit me. \$ th . Returned 
 to Boston; slept at my House. I eat less than would be 
 thought possible and live. i8 M . Rode to Brookline in the 
 morning with Mrs. S. Appleton, & to Dorchester in the 
 afternoon — much troubled with bird I ate for dinner. 22 nd . 
 Good night, ate oatmeal gruel & a small chop for dinner, 
 nothing else for the day. 25^, Sunday. Rode with Mrs. S. 
 Appleton. Miss Goodwin read to me from St. Paul's Epis- 
 tles & Jeremy Taylor. 26^. Rather busy with Mr. Finney 
 in making up accounts. 30^. Went with Miss Goodwin to 
 Newport. Ladies rode to the Fort, etc. 31^. Left Newport. 
 Sarah met me at my house to take me to Longwood. I de- 
 clined; she is a good soul. 
 
1861] Diary 243 
 
 SEPTEMBER 2»< Went to prove the will of my late 
 excellent friend Hon ble N. Apple ton; bad night. 4A 
 Rode to Mr. Geo. W. Lyman's & Mrs. Pratt's; pleasant 
 visits. Mr. Dexter arrived, very glad I was to see him. 
 Many changes since he left us for China; he returned via 
 San Francisco. J tk , Meeting of the Massachusetts Delega- 
 tion at State House in relation to inspection of shoes, poor 
 affair. 17^. I think I gain strength daily. Mr. Coolidge & 
 Master Frank returned from Newport; fine Boy. 2o M . I find 
 the old enemy is not subdued; suffered from my dinner. 
 21". Went to the Office, Market & Life Office. At even- 
 ing Mr. Johnson and Bugbee came in to look at plans for 
 the house. 
 
 OCTOBER 14A Saw Mr. Sears' Church 1 attempted 
 to sell the pews; I fancy he will not succeed in get- 
 ting his Prayer book into general use. 22*4 Went to see 
 Gov. Washburn on Mr. Hooper's election. I think he will 
 be elected. 25 th . Cold; Ice on the Common, first frost this 
 Autumn. There is much distress in our community by the 
 news of the Battle near to Arlington & the death of many 
 of our young men. 28^. Hetty & family left us. Charles 
 & his family came to our house to reside. 30^. Made re- 
 turn of inventory of Mr. N. Appleton's estate, worth about 
 eighteen Hundred Thousand dollars. 
 
 1 In Longwood ; over the Sears' family tomb. 
 
244 William Appleton [1861 
 
 NOVEMBER 3^, Sunday. The last night we had a 
 terrific storm, from the N.E.; much damage to ships 
 & many lives said to be lost; 13 on Egg Rock. 5 th . Elec- 
 tion of Gov r & other officers & a successor to me in Con- 
 gress. Mr. Hooper was elected by a large majority. 6^. 
 Went to New Bedford; could not be more kindly received 
 than I was by Mr. Grinnell. 9^. Intended to return but 
 rain prevented; I am sure they were pleased by the delay. 
 1 \ th . Left my kind friends; Mrs. G. insisted on accompany- 
 ing me to the Cars in the rain. \2 th . Went to meet Jack- 
 son Directors. I do not think our factory business well 
 managed, I will sell the half of my stock. Many calls; see 
 too many Persons; talked until ten O'clock; went to bed 
 very much exhausted. 16^. Anniversary of my birthday, 
 had my children, Mr. Dexter & Miss Hatty Appleton 1 
 to dine; pleasant dinner, all cheerful and well. I am very 
 doubtful as to my health, I have some cough, my appe- 
 tite and digestion good, and my strength increases. I often 
 say it is unimportant to my family & myself whether I 
 depart in this or another year. I doubt not, as the day is, so 
 will be my strength; yet the thought of immediate separa- 
 tion from those I most love gives a shock. i8 M . Went to 
 Longwood to make a visit to my sister; 2 George with me; 
 find excellent rooms and all kindness. 19^. Wheeler 3 came 
 & took me to Boston; returned to dine. For a month past 
 
 1 Mrs. Greely S. Curtis. 
 
 2 Mrs. Burnham, who lived on Mountfort Street. The house is still standing. 
 8 His coachman. 
 
1861] Diary 245 
 
 I have eaten no meat but broiled Pork, I prefer it to any- 
 thing in the way of food. 20^. Ate pork for breakfast & 
 dinner. iy d . Masons have about done their part to the new 
 House, the carpenters commenced the roof. 25 th . Troubled 
 with hoarseness & some cough. 27^. I called on Dr. Jack- 
 son who told me that he had a consultation with Dr. Warren 
 as to my going to a milder climate; said Madeirahe thought 
 best of; I did not understand they were quite settled as to 
 the expediency; I told him I should rather have the com- 
 forts of home to those of a better climate to live in & much 
 prefer to die with those I most love; he said I should be 
 advised by so many to go that I was likely to change my 
 mind, but I think he agrees with me, to stay at home. 
 
 DECEMBER v*. Bright morning; walked to Mr. 
 Lawrence's & returning by Mr. Binney's Cottage, 
 walking on the grass covered with snow, fell & scratched 
 my face & bruised me considerably. 2 nd . I feel the fall of 
 yesterday in my side. \ th . Our friends are very kind in com- 
 ing to see us ; W m & wife walked to Longwood. "] th . The 
 day promises well for the men covering in the new house. 1 
 \o th . Mr. Faulkner called on his way from Fort Warren, 
 at my House; very sorry not to see him. 13^. Letter from 
 Mr. Faulkner & accounts (repetition) of news of capture 
 of Mason & Slidell. \b th . We hear of the reception of the 
 news of the Capture of the "Trent," with Mason & Slidell 
 on board. \"] th . Much excitement in relation to our affairs 
 with England, and to my surprise a talk of Suspending 
 
 1 Prescott Street, Longwood. 
 
246 William Appleton [1861 
 
 specie payments; unnecessary, unwise & wicked under the 
 circumstances. 18^. I went before the Committee of Bos- 
 ton Banks; they requested my view as to suspension, they 
 had it freely. ig t/l . Nothing important by "Juror" from 
 England but more excited. I sold salt peter for sixteen 
 cents this day that I bought for eight within sixty days. I 
 find my nervous system in a bad state, I lay awake at night, 
 cannot keep awake in the day; no anxiety. 20^. Our 
 news as to war with England no change; we shall avoid 
 it, I think. 21^. Had a bad night; very little quiet sleep. 
 I give up tea, snuff and all my comforts, but my religion, 
 which I trust will sustain me while I am to sojourn on this 
 earth. 24/*. Went to the city and bought some Turkeys to 
 give to those who had not them. Xmas, 1861. The Chris- 
 tian World celebrates this day as the Anniversary of the 
 birth of our Blessed Saviour. When we turn to the dis- 
 tracted state of our Country; a million of men in arms, 
 Brother against Brother, Father against Son, we pause. 
 Does God permit the wicked, unruly passions of men to 
 thus rule that some great good may come? The ways of 
 God are past finding out; we must humbly do our duty, 
 and endeavour not to offend those we call the weaker 
 brethren; I allude to the Republican Abolitionists; I can- 
 not doubt there are among them honest men, but more 
 vile politicians. vj th . The accounts from Washington are 
 alarming as to War with England. 28^. After dinner my 
 dear William brought me the pleasing tidings that the 
 "Trent" affair was arranged & the cause of War with Eng- 
 land removed, which delights me more than I can express. 
 
1862] Diary 247 
 
 29^, Sunday. Very mild, took a long walk for me ; rode an 
 hour with my sister. 31^. The accounts we have from the 
 different sections of the Country show we do not want War 
 with England. 
 
 1862 
 
 JANUARY I st . The year has been one of the greatest 
 possible interest to almost all classes of our community. 
 The War has called for the energies of the Country which 
 in men & money have been brought forward without stint, 
 nor has there been shown an unwillingness in supporting 
 the Administration by many of us who do not belong 
 to their political party, or feel much confidence in their 
 wisdom. The Expenses of our Gov 1 in my opinion taken 
 from the 1 st May, 1861, to May, 1862, will be more than 
 five hundred million of dollars. The great amount of the 
 expenditure is for the pay & support of the army & navy, 
 and the large sums thus expended remain in the Country. 
 There appears no distress among our Manufacturers, some 
 of whom having contracts to supply clothing etc. for the 
 Government are said to be making large fortunes, but 
 when they close their contracts, the advance on raw ma- 
 terial, and extension of their works may lessen their profits; 
 our mechanicks find employment at near the last year's 
 prices, so I find in the payment of bills for my house build- 
 ing; what the present new year is to bring forth remains 
 to be developed. If not interfered with by foreign govern- 
 ments, we shall overrun the most valuable parts of the 
 Country occupied by the Confederates and they may have 
 
248 William Appleton [1862 
 
 to make the best terms they can. I regret to say that the 
 passions of our community are so much excited that they 
 would, I fear, if in their power, put arms in the hands of 
 the slaves to destroy the whites; I hear it said by those 
 who on most things would be considered of fair under- 
 standing. The Clergy & educated men not of the very high- 
 est order compose this order & a set of noisy, strong- 
 minded girls & boys, with a few mothers to direct and give 
 much advice to those who have means, as to how to use it. 
 I have been particularly noticed through the newspapers 
 for my giving aid to the rebels by sending Wine etc. to 
 the prisoners at Fort Warren. Mr. Faulkner, who was for 
 four years in Congress with me, & Mr. Eustis, son of 
 my old friend Judge Eustis, were those to whom I gave 
 comfort, which I was willing to defend on the basis of 
 Christianity; common civility to those not condemned, 
 and expediency. Those who wrote that I had better send 
 my money to aid the poor invalid soldiers had not paid a 
 dollar for the aid of the War, while I paid thousands. The 
 settlement of the "Trent" Mason & Slidell affair relieves 
 me much. We are going rapidly into paper currency. Prices 
 of all kinds of stocks will advance materially; I cannot 
 avoid taking an interest in the prices and speculations; I am 
 endeavouring to show the younger part of the Merchants 
 that an old man of seventy-five has energy left; at the same 
 time I am thinking what I shall do with the profits on the 
 Salt Peter & Pepper I have bought & sold. I shall give part 
 to the public & the balance to my distant relatives. y d . 
 We have a strong N.W. wind and cold. Mason, Slidell & 
 
1862] Diary 249 
 
 Co. must have had a bad time in the gun boat. Had a very 
 kind letter from Eustis; Mason and Slidell I did not no- 
 tice, I do not think them honest. ~] th . I am provoked at the 
 course the Banks & Government are taking in relation to 
 specie. We are likely to have a bad currency, very likely, 
 worse than bad. 8 tA . I have suffered, and have taken no 
 food except tea or gruel for 48 hours. 9^. Went to Boston, 
 quite feeble and irritable; sooner my house is in order the 
 better; my faith is strong that I shall meet death as I now 
 feel, without a dread. io //r . Went to the City; wrote my 
 cousin Mrs. M C M. that I would aid her. Had a long talk 
 with Dr. Jackson who says I have no disease to carry me 
 off like Mr. N. Appleton, but I am not strong" If I cannot 
 take food I cannot gain strength, but he evidently thinks 
 I shall be out again in summer. 11**. Mrs. Dodge & Kitty 1 
 returned from Phil d , glad to see them back. All attention 
 to me, 13^. Mr. Dexter writes me from Washington that 
 some important movements are expected; they do not 
 appear in full confidence. \$ th . Rainstorm; not well, nor 
 improving. Had a letter from David Stiles, my earliest 
 acquaintance in Temple, in Mr. Wheeler's 2 store with me, 
 now poor but worthy; sent him money which he uses ju- 
 diciously. 16^. Rain ceases & all is turned to ice, seldom 
 better Sleighing; went to the City, at work with Mr. Hall 
 on my Trust. i8 M . Sent for Mr. Bartlett to come & see me, 
 
 1 Mrs. Burnham's daughter and granddaughter (now Mrs. A. Lawrence Hop- 
 kins). 
 
 2 Artemus Wheeler "kept tavern and sold West India goods." Mr. Appleton 
 lived with him. The house is standing and is owned by Miss Bessie S. Hayward. 
 The store has gone; it stood on a part of what is now the village green. 
 
250 William Appleton [1862 
 
 rode with him to his house. 10 th . Storm continues, went to 
 City, but did not get out at our house. Quite feeble ; mis- 
 erable afternoon, — snow, hail & rain. ivK No change in 
 the weather, snow, rain, hail, alternately. 22«^. Went to the 
 City, not long at the Office. Sold the sugar & most of Salt 
 Peter. lof d . Mr. Bartlett handed me Trust papers, I gave 
 them to Mr. Hall. 
 
 The End 
 
 of the Seven Volumes of Diaries 
 
HONORABLE William Appleton died in Long- 
 wood at the home of his sister, Mrs. Burnham, Feb- 
 ruary 15, 1862. 
 
 Three days later "the funeral services were held at St. 
 Paul's (Episcopal) Church at twelve o'clock, noon. A large 
 number of the relatives and friends of the deceased, with 
 many members of the City Government, were present. 
 The remains . . . were carried from his late residence in 
 Beacon Street to the church where they were received by 
 the wardens and vestrymen. . . . The solemn burial service 
 of the Episcopal Church was conducted by Rev. Dr. A. H. 
 Vinton, Bishop Potter of Pennsylvania, Rev. Dr. Stone of 
 Brookline and the Rector of St. Paul's. 
 
 "After the ceremonies the body was accompanied to 
 Mount Auburn by a very large company in carriages. The 
 closing service of the Episcopal Church was read at the 
 grave." 
 

 
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