Jan. 8 Wed. I took Enid and George to the station. They are going to Wellington for a few days.

Jan. 10 Fri. The (Maori) shearer turned up so started shearing the lambs.

Jan. 15 Wed. Miss Bowles by morning train to Plimmerton. The children will meet her there.

Feb. 3 Mon. Rung up the Adkins from Paekakariki. Miss Bowles has not got home so - I will have to return at once. When I got back they got back by train in front of us. Feb. 12 Wed. Went to Mr Prouse's funeral. Largest that has been in the District - very hot day. Miss Bowles stayed with my kiddies.

Feb. 15 Sat. Got Poad to give me a hand in with the hay - two small loads. Miss Bowles and the kiddies gone up the river for a picnic. March 3 Mon.

Started Heap to clean out a drain in the bathing hole paddock. Got hoggets off the back hill ready for dipping. April 7 Mon.

Went over in the morning, found things anyhow. Mr Adkin returned the bull on Saturday. He smashed up two gates. Found Tommie dead in the paddock - gored by the bull. April 8 Tues. Went over early and got the cows in for George. The bull has been smashing things up again. He has given Dollie a scratch but I don't think it is deep. I took George to the sale with a few steers, sold them - for 8 pounds and 10 shillings. Took steers home. April 12 Sat.

Gave Vickers a hand to dip his sheep. He gave me a hand to bathe Dollie - thinks she will be alright. April 17 Thurs Left by morning train for Wellington. Got to Fernhill about 1 O'clock in time for dinner. The children seemed tired of the train. Left them at Fernhill. Went along with Mr P Denton - stayed with him. No word of the boat April 18 Fri. L. Denton Enid George and Jack came along in the morning. They saw the boat so we ail went out and had a look at it. It wont berth until the morning. April 19 Sat. Had a look through the window about 6 o'clock. Saw the boat creeping in. Had a cup of tea and then we made for the wharf. Bert looking very fit. (Hurrah). April 22 Thurs Went to the train to meet Bert. Glad to see him back again. April 23 Wed. Bert and I made up to the back hill and mustered the sheep. Cleaned up the wethers, got them in the shed ready for crutching.
NOW DIARY OF BERT April 27 Sun. We all went to Church of England in the morning. Took a walk around in the afternoon. April 28 Mon. Drizzling rain. Went over to Willie Stewart's and looked over accounts. April 29 Tues. Went to Levin sale. Met host of old friends. April 30 Wed. Beautiful day. Met Edith at Napier train. A lot of soldiers travelling home. Met a lot of friends in Levin. May 1 Thurs. Mr and Mrs A.J. Kellow from Foxton drove over to see me, and we had an enjoyable day. May 3 Sat. Wet in morning. Cleared in afternoon George and I drove to Levin and to the country - found plots fairly tidy. Saw Mr and Mrs McHinny on the way home. May 4 Sun. Edith and I drove with the children to church in the morning, in afternoon saw Mrs Stewart and Mr L Adkin. May 8 Thurs Went along to Queen Street with Edith who returns to Wellington by Napier mail. Clare motored her to the station. May 9 Fri. Mr and Mrs Sorenson drove up to see me. May 10 Sat. Went over to Foxton on mail car to see Albert and Miss Kellow. "Queen of the South" wrecked on Cape Campbell. May 11 Sun. In afternoon drove in Mr and Mrs Ross' car to Mr Ross' flaxmill. May 12 Mon. Returned to Levin ex mail car. Tremendous load aboard 14 passengers and sundry packages but the old Ford waltzed home in real style. At home found some dogs had been tearing around during the night. May 14 Wed. Willie Close came up to see inc regarding taking timber off my place and also bringing timber from Reads property though my place. Agreed to pay me 3/6 per 100 foot for my timber. Re bringing timber from Read's through my property he is to put concrete culverts over all creeks and drains not to cut up the paddocks with his waggons but keep to one track and keep fences in good repair. May 16 Fri. Went to disposal sale of J.Davies estate. Didn't buy anything. Later had tea and evening with Mr and Mrs S MacKenzie. May 17 Sat. Spent most of the day using the "drag" borrowed from Mr Miller to clean out the creek at the back of the woolshed. George and Jack were of great asistance and are becoming very useful. May 15 Sun. Am no longer a soldier as I was discharged yesterday. May 21 Wed. In Wellington fixed up free railway passes for 1 months travelling. Also mufti allowance less 2 pound and sixpence for military overcoat. Secured berth for "Maori" and tickets for Edith for S.I. tour. Left for Lyttleton at S pm. Good trip. May 22 Thurs Edith and I arrived Christchurch 9 am, left for south by midday express. Stayed at Timaru at Hydro Grand saw Timaru pretty thoroughly - very nice little town. Caught mail for south arriving at Dundedin 9pm. May 24 Sun. Edith and I went to St, Kilda, St. Clair, round Maori Hill and Roslyn. In afternoon had a car ride to Portobello by hill road and back along the waters edge. Most enjoyable. May 25 Sun. Went to Anglican Cathederal. May 26 Mon. Left Dunedin at 8 am. Cold and wintery, travelled south to Gore and changed for Lumsden and Kingston. Ran into snowstorm at Clinton. Country under snow as we apporached Lake Wakatipu. Very cold. About 2 hours on steamer boat on Lake and arrived Queenstown 6..30. May 27 Tues. Up early, caught the boat at S am for head of the Lake. Heavy snowstorm. Called at several large sheepstations en route so did not reach Glenorches till 2 pm when weather was beatifully fine. Took good walk around till boat left at 4 pm arriving Queenstown at 6.30 pm May 28 Wed. Left Queenstown at 9.30 am for Arrowtown per coach. A Mr Campbell of Wellington travelled with us and knew the country and made the trip very interesting. Dinner at Arrowtown (a trick of a place in goldmining days.) Coach also from Arrowtown to Cromwell. Very interesting drive down the Kawarua River which joins the Molyeneaux at Cromwell. Country very rough and uninviting and absolutely overrun with rabbits. Not at all taken with it. Just before reaching Cromwell saw irrigation scheme for pumping water up to the neighbouring flats. If successful it should be very profitable. Stayed night at Cromwell. May 29 Thurs Left Cromwell 7.00am, travelled by Public Works train to Clyde. Travelled down Central Otago Railway to Dunedin. Country still very rough. Arrived Dunedin 5.30. May 30 Fri. Heavy snow during the night. Edith laid up with veins on leg. Had advice from doctor. Walked up Mt. Cargill Road for view and to the resevoir in afternoon. May 31 Sat. Left Dunedin 8.30 am Beautiful day tho cold. Arrived in Christchurch and went to St. Elmo's - accommodation only poor. June 1 Sun.

Went to the Cathederal. After dinner Edith and I went to see Roly's father Mr W H Denton and family. June 2 Mon. Round Christchurch in the morning, then on to Sumner. In afternoon went up Cashmere Hills in train, then for a walk towards Lyttleton. June 3 Tues. Left ChCh for Greymouth via Otira Gorge. Very fine trip. Coached through the gorge. Very cold, plenty of icicles everywhere. Excellent scenery. Good as we've seen yet. Arrived Greymouth 7 pm. Railway Hotel. June 4 Wed.

Left Grey 8 am for Hokitika. Miserable land en route. Arrived Hokitika took motor to Kaneri 3/4 hour run. Very pretty bush and lake most beautiful. Sunny day. Reflections most vivid. June 5 Thurs Left Greymouth 7 am +or Reefton - very cold. Frost thick on the ground. Left Reef ton by motor about II am. Lunch at Inangahua. Nice drive through the Buller Gorge, crossed over on ferry, arrived Westport 2.30 pm. Had a good walk round, nothing much to see. June 6 Fri.

Left Westport 5.45 am. Dark cold, went back through the gorge to lnugahua where we had breakfast. From there we travelled north along the banks of the Buller. Passed Lyall the most desolate place l saw on the trip. Road steep and narrow with sharp turns. Very poor country. Rather better at Murchison where there is a little dairying land. Arrived Glenhope 1 pm. and had dinner. From there to Nelson by rail - nothing to see. Arrived Nelson 5.30 pm drove to the port and put up at the hotel there ready for the boat in early morning. June 7 Sat.

Left Nelson at daybreak by S.S. Pateena. Nice trip till we reached the straits where it was extremely rough and most of the passengers were sick. Arrived at Fernhill in time for tea. June 9 Mon.

Kate & I left Wellington by Napier mail. Kate stayed at Matamau with Lucy Jensen. I went to Hastings to Laurie and Nell. June 10 Tues Nell and I went to Napier or the day, saw the sights and had a good day generally. The public apparently took us for newly married couple we must have looked the part. June 13 Fri. Left Hastings and travelled far as Wanganui. Frank met me. June 16 Mon. Left Wanganui 7 am. and arrived in Masterton at 3.30 pm. stayed at Mathon Lodge Mr Daniels' place. June 17 Tues. Went sundry motor rides with Mr Daniel. Archie and Len Daniel arrived from Waikato. June 18-21 Wed-Sat. Went with Len Daniel to his ranch Wairere 1600 acres mostly easy hills, native grass, flat only fair, stock good. Romney-Lincoln ewes, heavy in wool. Hereford polled Angus cross cattle well bred. Wairere - took train to Managatainoka. Drove in gig about 15 miles over rough road. June 23 Mon. Left Masterton after visiting Waingawa freezing works with Len & Mr Daniel. Train late in arriving in Palm. North so missed New Plymouth mail. Eric McLearvy gave me a ride in his car and landed me at the top of Queen St. Glad to be home again. June 25 Sat. Went to Wellington. Mother pretty well. Bought some tools from the shop. July 11 Fri. Mr E. Law arrived from Shannon by motor to take Miss Bowles as Dora sick. Enid and I made breakfast. July 13 Sun. Went to Adkins for dinner. Drove to Shannon to see Dora. July 19 Sat. Showery. Peace Day. Took the children. Willie Stewart and Peter down to Levin to see the procession and demonstration. Went to luncheon to returned soldiers. Home to dark. July 21 Mon. Peace Day for children, but couldn't go down as the rain was coming down in torrents. July 22 Tues. Did not go down to sale.. Very heavy rain at lunchtime, creeks running high. Miss Bowies still making daily visits to Dora. Cliff drives her in the car. July 25 Fri.

Dora came down to Cheslyn Rise so Auntie's job is over. August 2 Sat.

Heavy showers during the day. George and I cleaned out thecreek above the bathing hole. Released a lot of water. August 4 Mon. Showery. In the evening took the three children to Children's Fancy dress ball in commemoration of peace. Enid went as "a lady of 50 years ago" and was dressed in her grandmother's wedding dress - it suited her splendidly and she looked A1. George caused much amusement as Charlie Chaplin and looked a regular trick. Jack looked very fierce as a cowboy. However, none of them scored a prize but all had a good time. There were about 420 children to be judged and the hall was far too small - a difficult job. Home about midnight - dead beat. August 5 Tues

Went to Levin sale. Breeding ewes sold for one pound 11/7 - cheap. hoggets 1/3/4, 14/-, 17/2. A good conditioned lot brought 30/6. Bought some concrete pipes for culverts from County Council. August 8 Fri.

No lambs yet. Went to clearing sale at P. Dags - cows brought big prices. 50 gns (stud) 30 and 27 pounds. August 11 Mon. Willie Stewart carted up concreted pipes from Council Chambers - 4 fifteen inch at a foot (36/-) and sundry broken pieces from 17/6 the lot. Put in the afternoon at the crossing. August 13 Wed. Used Willie's block dray to collect hay frame (10/-) from Dag's, also dog kennel (and dog which I am to give a trial.) Rode around the terrace, found new lamb, first of the season. August 14 Thurs Willie and I finished the large culvert. In afternoon put in hinau culvert and began another in open drain. August 17 Sun. Took children to church. Dinner at Mrs Stewarts, In afternoon drove with Willie to funeral of Mrs Fred Davies - lots of people attended. Heavy rain as we were leaving the cemetery. Picked up Auntie and children at Mrs Stewarts. August 21 Thurs Took Clare to dance at Druids Hall. August 24 Sun. Miss B. and children went to church. I took out hay and went around the ewes. In evening I biked down to church and afterwards went to Mr and Mrs Stewart MacKenzies. August 27 Wed. Fed out hay and went around the ewes. Drove to Levin with Willie in phaeton to look at horse under offer. Was not satisfied that it was quite reliable so did not buy. Looked at another in Araepaepae Rd, rather old, will see owner later. In evening took Clare to Peace Ball, very nice evening - good floor. Opposition dance in Town Hall. August 29 Fri. Rode up to A. Mark's place and brought home a bey gelding on trial. August 30 Sat. Tried new horse in dray to cart out hay. Went fairly well but seemed little nervous. Afternoon drove new horse in phaeton to Levin - went satisfactorily - fair pace, no shying. Stood in Levin while George. Jack and I went to see the football Horowhenua Reps. v. Manawatu 5-5. Enid assisting at Red Cross shop on behaif of Dr. Barnardo Homes and staying over tomorrow with Mrs Glassford. August 31 Sun. In afternoon Willie and I drove as far as Kuku to try out the horse - satisfactory and fairly good pace. Sept. 1 Mon Heap came and went on splitting rata. Sept. 3 Wed.

Went to Church of England Social in the evening. Sept. 5 Fri.

Mr Whitaker came to look at the work I wanted done. Spent most of day among the sheep. Sept. 7 Sun.

Plenty of iambs. Could not go out as the phaeton is being repaired at McIntosh. Nearly collapsed when Miss Bowles was driving on Friday. Sept. 8 Mon. Heap came and we made a start to move sheep yards to new position near woolshed. Took old yards to pieces. Moved dagging floor in three sections. As it is pretty far gone, I am only putting it down temporarily. Sept. 11 Thurs Blowing a dale from the east with rain at intervals. A fair number of trees blown over - pines and willows mostly. Sept. 12 Fri. In evening children's party at Mrs Vickers so Auntie and I drove down to bring them home - had a gay time. Sept. 16 Tues. Went to bridge at night at Mrs Clarke's. Sept. 17 Wed. Strained my bacK while working at yards. Auntie treated it to hot fomentations. Sept. 18 Thurs Back considerably better - rode around the sheep, did some light work in the yards. In evening went to dance in Druids Hall with Clare and Clifford - very enioyable. Sept. 20 Sat. George and I put in a few hours at the yards. In afternoon went to Wellington by slow train after having to get a permit to travel. Arrived at FernhiIi at 10 pm, saw mother for a few minutes. Yarned with Will till late. Sept. 21 Sun. Fine. Sat about all day talking with mother. Saw Rob also Alice and Percy in evening. Sept. 22 Mon. Did some shopping - bought new lamp for dining room. Returned to Levin by slow train. Biked home. Sept. 23 Tues. Docked 116 [?] lambs from old ewes. Fairly decent lot on the whole. New yards worked well. Lots of ewes yet to lamb. Sept. 24 Wed. In evening went to final dance of Autumn Leaf Assn. Sept. 30 Tues. George had bad turn last night with nightmares and was quite off colour. Did not go to school today. Oct. 2 Thurs Fenced in new garden (where old sheep yards had been) Enid and George both away from school. Oct. 3 Fri. Dull but fine. Brought up a load of firewooL. Cut rushes in hay paddock and put them in a hole by sheep yards. George went round sheep. Oct. 4 Sat.

Disgusted with weather - strong winds and heavy rain. Went to sale - not much doing. Tea at Willie S's afterwards we drove to hear lecture on "N.Zers in France" by Lieut. Col. Charters. Not bad. Oct. 9 Thurs Finished sheep yards. In evening went to Mrs Percy's for a game of cards. Enjoyable evening. Had a little singing. Oct. 15 Mon.

In afternoon drove Aunt and George to station to catch Napier Mail tor Plimmerton to stay for a week to recuperate. Enid and Jack and I baching. Oct. 17 Fri.

Willie brought Mrs S. over to look after the house while we
went on with the drilling. Ground in great order. Oct. 19 Sun.

Did not turn out to Kirk. Enid Jack and I drove over to Cheslyn Rise for dinner and tea. Home at dark. Oct. 20 Mon. Met Napier Nail and brought Auntie and George home. Oct. 21 Tues. In evening Willie and I drove to hear Mr J. Dawson speak on prohibition in America. Oct. 23 Thurs Felt very done up after shearing (14 ram hoggets and 5 other rams) Split rimu by sheepyards tor posts to mend fence (10 new posts) Oct. 25 Sat.

Afternoon went to Wellington by Napier Mail. Met Frank McGovern - was at Wellington College with him 25 years ago. Had a good yarn on way down. Found mother fairly well. Oct. 26 Sun. Beautiful day. Mother decided to go to church so Will Edith and I took her down in a cab. She lasted out very well and enjoyed the service. Percy Norrie and Harry over in evening. Oct. 27 Mon.

Beautiful day and holiday for Labour Day. Edith and I went down to see first St. Margaret's College and afterwards Wellington Girls College. Former in T. C. Williams old residence. Everything in fair order. Mrs Urquart showed us round Girls College. Furniture not so well kept as at St. Margarets and place hardly as spic and span. Have made no decision yet. Evening Will and I went to see YMCA gymnastic display - splendid performance. Oct. 29 Wed. In evening Willie and I went to hear cantata at Century Hall.. Very fair turnout. Nov. 1 Sat. In evening went to town. Shop day in aid of funds for school picnic. Nov. 2 Sun.

Children and I went to church. Nov. 3 Mon.

Whittaker's men made a start with hayshed. Put up large wall. I put in piles. Nov. 4 Tues. Very wet morning. Whittaker's men on Job. Finished boarding up. Arthur Davey from Wanganui spent evening with me yarning over our Palestine experiences. Nov. 5 Wed After dinner Arthur Willie and 1 had a good look round the State Farm - very interesting experiments in field division - showing effect of sowing cow grass on old pasture on top of grass (6lb. cow grass per acre) Cow grass subsequently outgrew the grass, made excellent growth. Carpenters finished job. Nov. 7 Fri.

Man named Archer walked up from Levin to work - put him on levelling on terrace. In evening went down to see the Bartholomew boys to see some of their photos. Nov. 10 Mon. Went to Levin in evening (singing). Afterwards went to pictures. Wet night. Nov. 11 Tues. Slack sale. In evening went to political meeting. Labour party candidate McKenzie, fair speech. Nov. 14 Fri. Fine and very hot. Archer came and we went on stumping. I fired the heaps of wood in the evening. Nov. 16 Sun. Dull with heavy rain in afternoon. Went by car to Mangahao. Had to climb very steep hill to get to main camp, where we were well treated. Gave about an hours entertainment. Walked Lack to car. Stopped by powerhouse site for another feed and entertainment. Nov. 17 Mon. Mr Vickers drove me to look at 6 two year old steers he wanted to quit. Badly bred so bought them for 3/5/0. Nov. 18 Tues. Began shearing in afternoon - self 11, Willie S. 5. Shearing continued over next fortnight. Problems - machine stopped running, cutters not going well, ran out of benzine, shearers failed to turn up (so called Clifford Adkin). Later a man named Howarth turned up. Dec. 3 Wed.

Very cold wind and rain. Snow on foothills. Lost 7 sheep from exposure. Dec. 6 Sat.

Remainder of lambs in shed. Finished shearing about 4.30 Very please to have it over. Dec. 10 Wed. Fine Early dinner, biked down to racecourse where school children were having their peace picnic. Just missed seeing Johnny run but failed to get place. George won 12 year old race, was second in relay and third in hop step and Jump. Enid did not complete. Fair crowd present. Dec. 13 Sat. Went to Wellington by Napier Mail. Mother only fairly well, looking rather weary. Dec. 14 Sun. Went to see Auntie Ralph and Lil who have been Laid up with poisoned hands and had very bad time. Sat round all day and talked to Mother. Dec. 15 Mon. Went down and interviewed Mr Hunt, Mr Morcom of Farmers Distr. Co. re wool. Had look round building - a very fine place. Dec. 17 Wed. Election Day. Very hot. W.N. Field elected by 1200 majority. McKenzie (Lab), McDonald, fsherwood in that order. Massey returned with about 46 seats. Sir O. Ward Sir d. Carrot and Russell defeated. National Prohibition has a big lead over Continuance and State Control. Home 1 a. m. Dec. 20 Sat.

Wool sold in Wellington yesterday. 13 bales of fleece at 16 pence, 2 bales lambs at 15 pence. Hoped for better on fleece. Dec. 21 Sun. Cold and windy. George and l went to Mangahao with ladies and gentlemen to entertain men there with Xmas dinner and music etc. Thavelled in char-a-banc, very comfortable. Had quite a successful day. Dinner seemed to be greatly appreciated at both camps. Had some music and recitations (Miss Brown v. good) Arrived home 10 p.m. after some delays on road. Dec. 23 Tues. Took children to train to Wellington where they are spending Xmas with Rob and Carrie. Dec. 25 Thurs Xmas Day. Beautiful weather. I was up at 4 a.m. milked cows, breakfast by 5.30 Willie and I continued drilling and finished about 8 a.m. Later Auntie and I went to Cheslyn Rise for dinner and rest of day. Dec. 28 Sun. Beautiful day. Alb & Vi Kellow drove over in car to see us. Took a walk up to the terrace in afternoon. Dec. 31 Wed. Willie and I took levels at the creek and found a place for a dam in bathing hole paddock.

Jan. 1 (Sat) At home. Botanical Gardens. Pictures Jan. 2 (Sun) Church. Days Bay to see Kellow with Perc & Norrie. Church. Jan. 3 (Mon) Fine. S.S. Maheno returns from the war with wounded soldiers. Reception in Town Hall. Opera House. Jan. 4 (Tues) Fine. Home by Napier mail. Brought Norrie back with me. Jan. 8 (Sat) Fine. Helped Gimblett take in hay. Took Aunt & the children to the first train to Wellington where they are going for their holiday. They saw the parade of the 9th Reinforcenents. Alice, Percy & children & Miss Guy came up by evening train to stay here. Jan. 9 (Sun) Drove to Levin in afternoon & Percy went on to Otaki with Mr MCKegg in his car in order to catch the train to Wellington. Drove to cemetary. Jan. 11 (Tues) Fine. Willie Stewart, Gimblett, Becher & Carter came & we harvested my hay - finished by 3 o'clock. Jan. 14 (Fri) Fine. Could not take in Cottle's hay so went to A & W's yards. Fair sale. Jan. 21 (Fri) Percy arrived by midnight train. I drove down in pouring rain to meet him Jan. 23 (Sun) Percy, Alice & children went to Adkins. Bess & I stayed home. Jan. 24 (Mon) Fine. Three Morgans came & shore black faced lambs 204 which I dagged before breakfast, (up at 4.30am) Jan. 26 (Wed) Fine & very hot. Levin Show. Very fair turn-out but too hot to be pleasant. Went to Porteous's for bridge but became very sick & had to come home. Jan. 28 (Fri) Percy returned. Jan. 29 (Sat) Fine. Odd jobs. Made bathing hole in afternoon. Rather small but deep (close on 6ft) Good diving. Close by woolshed. Town in evening with ladies. Heavy rain coming home - wet through. Jan. 30 (Sun) Fine & v.hot. Stayed home all day. E W J Smith & Miss Lancaster up in afternoon (bathing in pool) Jan. 31 (Mon) Fine & v.hot. Made paths round the house in preparation for asphalt Bathing. Will Ross returned to Wellington Feb. 7 (Mon) Farewell to soldiers. Percy gave cornet solo - encored. I among the also started. Successful evening. Finished with dance Feb. 8 (Tues) Fine & very hot. Afternoon all drove up river to swim in °Black Hole". Very enjoyable but Harry had narrow escape from drowning. Clare, Vivian and Agnes also there. Feb. 9 (Wed) Fine & hot. Percy gave lecture on India in Century Ball. Fair audience - rotten lantern. Good lecture. Heavy rain in night Feb. 12 (Sat) Fine. Afternoon Percy & I went to Wellington by New Plymouthmeil. Visited Fern Hill in evening. Stayed at Oriental Bay. Feb. 13 (Sun) Fine. Had a swim with children in morning. Wesley Church. Evening - tea at "FernEdll. Feb. 14 (Mon) Fine. Wool sale tremendous catalogue 39,000 bales. EXcellent prices. W GAdkin 17¼, Kay 17, for fleece, 16½ for lamb. Feb. 15 (Tues) Fine. Took children down town visited Annie who has just undergone operation at private hospital. Improving. Wool Sale. my fleece 11 bales realised 18¼, beating all records. Home by 4pm train. John Davies of Koputaroa died suddenl yaged 77 Feb. 19 (Sat) Fine. Firing rushes & scrub in morning. Feb. 21 (Mon) Fine. Helped Willie Stewart take in hay in afternoon. Firing in morning. Feb. 22 (Tues) Vickers came at 8 o'clock & picked out 140 fat lambs which I put in on schedule. Ma & I went to "Swarry" in evening. Feb. 23 (Wed) Fine & hot, acted as best man to Mr EW J Smith who married Miss Lancaster. Good turnout altogether. Big crcwd. Everything went well. Went for "joyride" to Otaki & saw bride and groom off there. Showers of rice. Home 9pm Feb. 24 (Thurs) Fine. Drove to station to meet Row Pope who is up on holiday. Row & I torched fern in afternoon & had a swim. Cards. Feb. 26 (Sat) Firing all day on Terrace & back hill. Fires went fairly well. Mar. 1 (Wed) Mrs, Miss & Percy McLeavey up in evening. Mar. 2 (Thurs). Fine. Row & Put in day repairing fences & pulling penny royal. Mar. 3 (Fri) Ma Row & I went to farewell to troopers. Raw sang "The Gauntlet" I danced till midnight. Mar. 5 (Sun) Fine. Stayed at home in morning. All drove up river in afternoon to "Black Hole" & had a dip. Mar. 8 (Wed) Battle of Verdun still raging & been going about a week. Mar. 15 (Wed) Went to Garden Party at Mrs Bowens. Ran Quoits competition & collected 31/6 Took 2nd prize hat trimming. Took about 13 pds. Mar. 18 (Sat) Went to Levin to recruiting meeting. Mar. 19 (Sun) Kirkcaldie & I motored to see Mr Wright to canvass the district for recruits. Drove to Lake in evening. Mar. 25 (Sat) Heavy storm of rain in morning but weather cleared about 9 o'clock. Met Napier Mail & brought Miss Bowles & children home. All the children & Ro & I had a bathe. George & Enid had their first dive. I drove Alice, Bessie & children to catch Nea Plymouth Express for Wellington. End of holiday. Mar. 27 (Mon)


Mr Vickers' boys brought up 48 sheep to be dipped. Mar. 29 (Wed) Ro, George & I went to swimming baths. George swum about 80yds or more. Evening Ro & I went to gaslight Tournament an Bowling Green. I took 2nd prize hat trimming. Apr. 2 (Sun) Beautiful day. We all drove up river except Ro who rode Dolly. Had a bathe. After dinner Ro & I rode up to the end of the road. Country pretty rough specially some of J R McDonald's. Left sheath knife on log. Apr. 4 (Tues) Fine. Mastered & dipped 173 lambs & pet ewe & 2 pet Isdas. Finished job, by falling into the dip while doing last sheep. Very sore. Apr. 6 (Thurs) Went to town by Napier Mail - On tour with Edith. Apr. 7 (Friday) Showery. Called to see Robert at hospital in morning. Edith & I left on tour by Auckland Express at lpm. Stopped at Taihape for night. Pictures. Apr. 8 (Saturday) Showery in morning. Edith & I walked round Teihape but not much to see. Rather pretty gorge on east of town. Left by 1 o'clock train (slow) for Taumaranui. Journey spoilt by rain & hail. Got a glimpse of Ngarahoe emitting steam, also several large viaducts. Arrived Taumaranui 7.45pm, but as place seemed pretty miserable, we decided to catch midnight express for Auckland. Meanwhile we went to pictures & supper (decent soup). Apr. 9 (Sunday) Fine. Reached Auckland about 6.45am & secured rooms at "Stonehurst". Nice place & decent bedrooms. I slept till dinner time. Afternoon we took trip round harbour. Very enjoyable. St Heliers Bay, Rangitito Is where we landed for an hour. Tea & Church of England. Apr. 10 (Mon) Fine. Round town in morning. Called at Mr Harold Burnby's office. Afternoon went by tram to Onehunga & called at One Tree Hill on way back & climbed to top. Beautiful view. Evening at Y.M.C.A. with Mr & Mrs Maurice Harding (also staying at Stonehurst). Apr. 11 (Tues) Fine. Went for lovely motor drive with Mt & Its M Harding & Mrs Brown (Proprietress "Stonehurst") all round suburbs of Auckland. Beautiful drive & nice car. Saw some very nice land (volcanic). Went through Remuera, St Heliers, Otahuhu, Mangere, Onehunga & home. Farm land selling at prices up to One hundred pounds per ac. Afternoon, Ponsonby, Herne Bay & Point Erie (?) Park (this last very pretty indeed). Apr. 12 (Wed) Fine. Caught train for Westfield Sale Yards but had to get out at Penrose. However I chummed up to man in car & he took me on to Westfield yards. Very agreeable fellow, offered to take me back to Auckland if I chose. Had short time in yards. Did not see sheep as sale not till later. Gentlemen took me for little jaunt & then back to Auckland in time for dinner. Solicitor by profession. I then called on Frank Pope in State Insurance. Afternoon Edith & I & Miss Isobel Smith went in charabanc to Titirangi up in hills. Rough roads but enjoyable drive. Beautiful view from summit. Saw some Kauri trees, very pretty trees. Went over to North Shore to Mrs Bunby's to tea & evening. Apr. 13 (Thurs) Fine. I went by train to Helensville. Very poor country on the whole. Had a lovely hot bath at Helensville, my first from natural hot spring. Took Mr & Mrs Harding to see the Strollers - a rotten show. Apr. 14 (Fri) Fine. Mr & Mrs Stewart took Edith Auckland then to Titirangi & Exhibition Afternoon I walked up Mt Eden nice view. Evening spent at Mre Perkins' (Maud James) Apr. 15 (Sat) Fine. Left Auckland 10 o'clock for at Brents Hotel. Country to Rotorua very Duchess Swimming bath. Great fun. Apr. 16 (Sun) Fine. Edith & I walked round Ohinemutu. Wonderful place. Hot springs everywhere. Watched Maoris cooking. Went to Maori Church. Rev. Bennett. Afternoon word was received "Pohutu" geyser at Whakarewarewa was likely to play so went out by coach. Engaged Guide 'Eileen' who took us over sights. "Camera fiends" much in evidence. "Pohutu" played for ½hr - geyser about 40ft high. Many interer­esting sights & geysers, boiling mud, frog pond, cat's eyes, lily pond etc. Dutchess bath in evening. Apr. 17 (Mon)


Showery. Round Rotorua in morning. Engaged rooms at Empire for Thursday. Walked to Ohinemutu & round soldiers' camp, took shelter from rain in Maori house. Afternoon walked around bath grounds. Duchess bath. Apr. 18 (Tues) Fine. Went to Hamarama spring by launch. Very pretty water quite trans­parent. Stream gushing out of ground at great force. After morning tea want on by launch across head of Lake Rotorua into Ohau river & from there into Lake Rotoiti. Very pretty, landed at Okere & saw Okere Falls & Rapids & Power House, Hinemoa Steps. Had photo taken. Guide Lizzie- regular hard old case. Back Rotorua 4.30. Bath. Apr. 19 (Wed) Fine. Edith & Iwent on Waiwangu trip. First drove in coach 13 mi1es past afforestation farming, tea at Waimangu House, GUide McCormack took, us around. Very wonderful place. Saw "Frying Pan Flat" - blowhole Waimangu basin & cauldron. Took launch across Rotomahana past site of old pink & white Terraces, crossed over hill to Lake Tarawera at foot of Tarawera mountain. Saw lots of trout. Went to Wairoa where many people buried, Sophia's Whare, past Blue & Green Lakes, to Rotorua. Very enjoyable. Rob, Carrie & girls arrived. Apr. 20 (Thurs) Fine. Denton clan went to Fairy Springs & toured Obinemutu. Afternoon in Sanatorium grounds. Moved to Empire Hotel. Apr. 21 (Fri) Fine. Stayed about town. Maori concert in evening Apr. 22 (Sat) Went to Whakarewarewa & had spout bath. Walked round grounds with Agnes & Amy. Met Jack Devine, late of Levin Apr. 23 (Sun) Fine. Up at 5am. Left by motor at 5.45an. for Taupo. Reached Waiotapu for breakfast. Very interesting place - lots of thermal activity. Motored across plains to Aratiatia Rapids, beautiful sight - Waikato River falling down over huge rocks. Motored on to Taupo for lunch on shores of Lake. Stayed about an hour then back to Huka Falls, also excellent. Then made for Wairakei. Saw Devils cauldron, Whirakei Geyser, Dragon's mouth, Eagles nest, Twin geysers & Prince of Wales Feathers. Left for Rotorua about 4.45. Reached Waiotapu for tea & Rotorua at 9.30. Best day of all. Jack Devine went with us. Apr. 24 (Mon) Fine in morning. Regatta at Ohinemutu, Good fun while it lasted. Maoris in great form. Canoe hurdle. Race best item - very laughable. Heavy rain about 3pm. Sheltered in houses. Maori concert in evening. Very good "part" singing Apr. 25 (Tues) Fine Blue bath in early morning. Left by 9am. train for Waitomo Caves. Jack Devine travelled with me to Frankton. Hangitiki 3.40pm. Coach to Caves at dark. Met J.E. Dean & wife also Rev. Ward. Explored Waitomo Caves in evening. Very interesting & unique. Glow worms in underground river cave very pretty. Nice hotel. Apr. 26 (Wed) Fine. Drove in Coach to Ruakuri & Aranui. Each of these was better than Waitomo, Aranui being the best. Beautiful stalactites up to 15ft long also some thin as a pencil & five feet long. Representations of poached eggs, candles & many peculiar things. Most beautiful were "Throne Room" "Bridal Chamber"' indescribable. Met Mr, Mrs & Miss Owen of Eltham. Left Whitomo 3.40pm for Taumaranui reaching there 7 o'clock. Tea & pictures, Grovenor Hotel. Apr. 27 (Thurs) Up at 3.30, caught Express. Had good view of both mountains. Marton 10 o'clock & on to Wanganui. Dinner with Frank. Left Edith there & I went on, to New Plymouth arriving 7.45. Met Thorne of Levin on train & travelled together. Stayed with him at White Hart Hotel. Very comfortable. Pictures. Apr. 28 (Fri) Fine. Walked round with Thorne before breakfast. Went to New Plymouth gardens. Thorne introduced me to Joe Kebbell - I went to Willis St School with him 25 yrs ago. Also met Frank Blundell. All motored in Blundell's car to oil works. Joe introduced us to Mr Millar (Manager) who showed us all round the Works, very interesting & instructive. Left mid-day for Wanganui accompanied by Thorne to Stratford. Wanganui at 8. Walked to Franks. Stayed at MbCarthys Hotel so as to catch early train Apr. 29 (Sat) Edith & I left 7 o'clock - Palmerston 11 dinner, Hastings 6 o'clock. Billy Wilson on train. Stayed at Laurie's Apr. 30 (Sun) Loafed about in morning. Drove out in phaeton in afternoon May 1 (Mon) Wet. Walked up town in morning. Sat around in afternoon. '500' in evening May 2 (Tues) Fine. Edith & I left for Wellington via Rimutaka. Ed James travelled with us as far as Trentham where he is going into camp with 16th Reinforcements. Good Sport. Home at 8pm. Reception. May 3 (Wed) Left Wellington by Napier Mail. Ro met me & went to Dalgety's yards to sale. Home about 4pra. Walked round Terrace. May 4 (Thurs) A visit from C D Morpeth to see Ro. Barber came with him May 5 (Fri) Fine. Rode around. Went to A & W's sale. Did not buy. Mr & Mrs Ro Pope and family departed for Wellington after a holiday of a month & upwards. May 6 (Sat) A few 4 & 6 tooth ewes with facial eczema. Town & cards with Mrs P Stewart & Willy May 9 (Tues) Found 9 ewes badly affected with facial eczema. Gave than a dose of Sykes' Drench & bathed faces with Jeyes Fluid May 13 (Sat) Fine. Miss Bowles announced at breakfast that Enid had developed a rash. I accordingly acquainted Dr Bryson with the fact. He paid us a visit & pronounced it a mild case of scarletina. Auntie had isolated Enid & we are all quarantined for six weeks. Enid does not appear much the worse for it - quite bright & jolly May 16 (Tues) Health Inspector came; everything satisfactory. Enid bright & jolly


May 21 (Sun) Enid getting on nicely May 25 (Thurs) Dug potatoes. George & Jack picked up. About 4 sacks. May 31 (Wed) Fine. Intended to crutch but unfortunately I ricked my back in carrying in firewood so was not able to work. Put in all day in bed. Auntie doctored me with hot fomentations June 1 (Thurs) Fine after wet night. Felt such better. George now able to milk - earned 5/- prize June 3 (Sat) News came through of big naval battle in North Sea. Heavy losses on both sides. British lost 3 big boats, 3 smaller & 8 destroyers, Germans 2 battleships & b. cruiser, 1 light cruiser, 6 destroyers, 1 submarine & 13 disabled - also big loss of life June 6 (Tues) Received result of lambs wool - sold at 15 & 3/4d which was ½d under reserve June 7 (Wed) Bad news arrived that Lord Kitchener had been drowned through HMS Hampshire being mined & sunk off Orkney Is. No lives saved. Heavy sea running June 11 (Sun) Mr Tress came to have a look round. Auntie & Enid went for a short ride


June 12 (Mon) Russians making a big drive in east - captured 105,000 prisoners mostly Austrian. Sent away 3 boxes apples to Hastings, Wanganui, Wellington. June 13 (Tues) Helped Auntie take swarm of bees from "Section 15". Made elaborate preparations against risk of being stung but bees made no attempt whatever. June 22 (Thurs) Jack's 5th birthday July 2 (Sun) Children went to Sunday School at Adkins - first time - Church - Ehaenzies (Thurs) 5th Anniversary of Jen's death. July 2 (Fri) Allied offensive in France continuing satisfactorily July 9 (Sun) Fine. Miss Bowles & children went to Church in morning. Afternoon ue all drove to cemetery. Tea & evening at Adkins. July 11 (Tues) Very wet. Could not work so went by train to Shannon sale. Very little sold, Had tea with Tom Edwards. Home by New Plymouth Mail July 17 (Mon) Evening - bridge at Mrs W MClark's. Did fairly well, scored 720 July 21 (Fri) Went to farewell to soldiers. Good turnout. Acted as auctioneer for cakes & did fairly well. Went for drive in Miss Groves' car also Mrs Smith July 23 (Sun) Fine in morning. Miss Bowles & children want to Church & brought Mt & Mks Porteous home with them. Miss Palmer also came up in afternoon. Heavy rain in evening. I drove visitors home July 24 (Mon) Went to Bridge Party at Mrs Whitaker's. Played with Mks W M Clark again & won July 27 (Thurs) Big meeting at farmers re having one joint sale in week instead of 2, carried unanimously July 29 (Sat) Took Miss Groves to pictures July 30 (Sun) Fine. I drove the children to Church using Mr Whitaker's chestnut mare on trial. She went very well - rather slow coming home. Mks Gardener, Mr & Mrs McIntyre up to see us in afternoon Aug. 1(Tues) Wet, could not do much. Miss Bowles & I drove to Ohau to look at horse for sale by Mr Woods of Kuku factory at 6 pounds. Led it as far as McLeavey's then put it into phaeton & it came home well. Cheap horse I think Aug. 2 (Wed) Very cold & dull, Murray the Maori came & we worked on the boundary fence. Knocked off about 3.30 on account of the rain. Very bad night, heavy easterly wind which increased to gale, also heavy rain. Worst night this winter Aug. 3 (Thurs) Gale still raging. Kitchen chimney collapsed on top of kitchen roof early this morning, damaged iron & rafters. A lot of trees blown down in orchard & elsewhere. Lot of work repairing. Found first lamb Aug. 4 (Fri) Fine but dull. Repairing fences in manaing. Afternoon I put new horse "Tom" in dray & took down a bale of crutchings. Horse want quietly & well. Brought home 24 gals of tar from gas works Aug. 5 (Sat) Fine. Worked all day at Boundary fence (Becher' s). Evening went to soiree at Miss Duff's place. Aug. 7 (Mon) Whitaker repairing kitchen roof etc. Bridge at Mrs Halls Aug. 8 (Tues) Evening, Mr & Mks Lancaster, Mrs Smith & Miss Groves motored up. Had a blow out & could not repair. Music & Euchre. Jolly evening. Aug. 11 (Fri) Evening. Went to Ohau by motor with Misses Remington (2) & Hughes. Concert & dance. Recited Uncle Podger. Good turnout. Had a few dances. Home 12.30 in rain Aug. 12 (Sat) Bricklayer comenced to build chimney. Went to Wellington by Napier Mail to see Mother


Aug 13 (Sun) Wet. Church in morning with Claire. Marj laid up with measles. Wet in afternoon. Walk with Will. Home in evening. Aug 14 (Mon) Showery. Sawed wood. Down town. Bought Mecanno set for George. Went to see Alice & family at Oriental Bay. Home by 4 train. Pictures in evening "Neptune's Daughter" - very good Aug 16 (Wed) Auntie went to Palmerston Nth to see her brother. Bridge at Mrs Parks (Thurs) Farewell to soldiers in evening. Small audience Aug 17 (Thurs) Farewell to soldiers in evening. Small audience


Aug 21 (Mon) Jennings called re Shares in Farmers Co-op Distributing Co. of which I took. up 25 - paid in full. Bridge at Mrs Clarks. Aug 28 (Mon) Bridge at Mrs Whitakers in evening - beaten but scored grand slam Aug 29 (Tues) Italy declared war on Germany, Roumania on Austria, Germany on Roumania. Sept. 4 (Mon) Enid went with Mrs D.S. MacKenzie to Plimmerton for a week's holiday Sept. 14 (Thurs) Tea at Adkins & then rook Annie & Clare to farewell concert to soldiers


Sept. 19 (Tues) Cyril Bowles cut with barbed wire on arm Sept. 20 (Wed) Went to Levin to see Blenkhorn with regard to giving Willie Stewart Power of Attorney over my affairs if I go to the front. Cyril had a nasty fit after being attended to for his sore arm. Soon pulled round, all right by 5 o'clock. Sept. 21 (Thurs) Willie & Mrs Stewart & I want to Palmorston Nth by New Plymouth Mail. They went to consult the doctor & I to enlist for the front. Colonel Pringle kindly assisted me in getting an interview with Colonel McDonald of Headquarters staff & I put my name for NCO mounted. Colonel McDonald was originally drill instructor for the Horoubenua Mbunted Rifles & I remembered him well Sept. 22 (Fri) Went to be examined by Dr Bryson for enlistment & passed well, only defect being slight varicose vein on left leg. Fit as a fiddle elsewhere. Signed on at Keedwells for the 23rd Reinforcements. Sept. 24 (Sun) Drove to Mathesons in afternoon. Went on motor ride to Manakau Sept. 29 (Fri) Wet. Took 2 sacks potato seed to D Smart 's for sale. Levin Sale. Put in ½ hr at dentist's (MacKenzies) and had one (tooth) stopped preparatory for camp. Oct. 1 (Sun) Fine. Drove to Church in morning & then to Mr Sorensen's for dinner. Had a walk round. Home about 7 o'clock Oct. 4 (Wed) Went to Levin to be attested for Expeditionary Force by Major Ashworth Received first day's pay 5/- & granted leave till 13th Nov. 1916. Tea at Mac­Kenzies & sale at Century Hall Oct. 8 (Sun) Church with children. Willie Stewart over in afternoon also Mr & Mrs Gardener Oct. 10 (Tues) First sale of new arrangement & all auctioneers on one day Oct. 14 (Sat) Went to Foxton to see Alb Kellow. Round township in afternoon Oct. 15 (Sun) "Loafed" round all day. Church in evening. Census taken tonight Oct. 16 (Mon) Home by motor 8am. Oct. 21 (Sat) Very wet. Could not do anything. Went to Wellington by Napier Mail with Laurie. Very wet night. Stayed home & talked. Oct. 22 (Sun) Fine. Went to Church with Mother. Afternoon Laurie, Will & I went up to the College to see J P Firth. Looked round grounds. Picked up Percy at Oriental Bay & hour to tea & evening. Oct. 23 (Mon) Returned to Levin by Napier mail. Laurie also on his way home Oct. 24 (Tues) Farewell to Billy Eccleton. Went to see Blenkhorn re legal affairs Oct. 25 (Wed) Bridge Party given by Mrs Whitaker for my benefit Oct. 28 (Sat) Alb. Kellow & family arrived Oct. 29 (Sun) Alb, Violet & I rode up hill in morning. Sat round in afternoon & evening Oct. 30 (Mon) Whitaker & Jones came & continued on hayshal. Final night of Bridge Club. Presented me with pocketbook Oct. 31 (Tues) Worked at hayshed all day & got buik of 'work done. Finished cowbail & milked heifer in new bail Nov. 1 (Wed) Whitaker & Jones came & finished hayshed. Good job. Nov. 4 (Sat) Morgan arrived late for shearing. Murray & I made a start & we altogether shore 127 hoggets. Willie Stewart came over & had first lesson in rolling wool. Got on well. Nov. 9 (Thurs) Hossack came & took away 8 bales of wool to be sent to N.Z. Farmers Co-op. Distributing Co Wellington. I went to Levin & paid a lot of accounts. Stayed to tea at Mathesons & went to send-off in Century Hall. Auntie & children came down. Entertainment consisted of its by "Mysterious Ministrels" of which I was one. Went off very well considering no rehearsals. Ladies Patriotic Committee presented me & two other fellows with cardigan jackets to take to camp with us. Good reception. Afterwards little send-off to Billy Eccleton at Miss McKegg. Home at 1.30am Nov. 10 (Fri) Willie Stewart & I took walk all over the farm & I showed him my methods of working the place. Evening at Mrs D.S. MacNenzies - bridge. Nov. 11 (Sat) Went to Levin to pay accounts etc. Doing up books in afternoon Nov. 12 (Sun) I took the children to Church & we afterwards drove down to the cemetery. Will Denton & Gilbert paid me a visit in afternoon & we took a wak round & afterwards we drove to Adkins where we all stayed to tea. Home at 7pm. Nov. 13 (Mon) Left by 1 o'clock train for Palmerston en route for camp, training for the Front. Willie Stewart's entries in H Denton's diary: Drove Bert & Miss Bowles & Jack to the station - number of friends there to say goodbye to Bert & gave him a hearty cheer Nov. 15 (Wed) Miss Bowles went to Miss McLeavey's wedding Nov. 16 (Thurs) Miss Bowles rang up to say Mt Denton gone to Featherston Nov. 20 (Mon) Miss Clark came to stay with Miss Bowles. I had a letter from Bert. He thinks he has been away for months Nov. 29 (Wed) Took petition round Gladstone Rd to see if we can get our mail delivered. They all signed it. Dec. 10 (Sun) Miss Bowles & Jack gone out with Mathesons Dec. 17 (Sun) Miss Bowles & Family over in afternoon, waited for tea. Children had a good time Dec. 20 (Wed) Bert back for a fortnight Dec. 21 (Thurs) Bert & Murray shearing. Finished at 5 o'clock thanks to Bert Dec. 23 (Sat) Took Bert & all the family to the morning train. They all went to Wellington Dec. 28 (Thurs) I took Bert & family from the mid-day train

Diary entries by Willie Stewart when Bert Denton was overseas at war:

Jan. 6


Miss Bowles & family gone to Wellington. Bradley drove then to morning train. Mt Percy Denton & family came by mid-day train Jan. 14 (Sun) Denton children over in the afternoon to look at milking machine Feb. 5 (Mon) Met Miss Bowles & family & took them home Feb. 18 (Sun) Miss Bowles & Miss Clark over after dinner. The children came after Sunday School. Mar. 1 (Thurs) Mrs Dr Bryson died yesterday Mar. 9 (Fri) Went to Wellington & met Bert at Fernhill. Had lunch there then went to see Commissioner of Taxes. Got a reduction of 24 pounds 14/-. Mar. 26 (Mon) The cow has been giving George a bit of trouble so I took her back with me & took over another quite old cow that you can milk in the paddock. Mar. 28 (Wed) Dolly seems better. Children rode her to school Mar. 31 (Sat) Miss Bowles came over for the bees about dinnertime. We went round & got the honey from them. Got the bees in a kerosine box, tied a sheet round them & took them home with her. Apr. 8 (Sun) Went to Church & stayed down for dinner. Had a visit from Gilbert & his wife to say goodbye. Apr. 10 (Tues) Went down town. Saw Mrs Edwards, bought the pony for 7 pounds. This is a present from Mr Denton to me. Apr. 21 (Sat) Murray brought his swag along - going to bach in the whare. May 10 (Thurs) Went to Palmerston along with Mr Barron. He has enlisted, goes into camp on July 25th May 18 (Fri) Miss Bowles rang up to say Mt Denton coming home for his final leave today. May 21 (Mon) Kellow & Bert went to town. I went over in the evening & played cards May 23 (Wed) Bert & children gone to Wanganui. Miss Bowles staying here. May 24 (Thurs) Bert & family returned by the express May 25 Fri. Drove Bert & his family down to a send off concert. May 28 Mon. Bert & I decided to pipe drain the bathing hole paddock, if the price is reasonable. We all drove down in the afternoon to say goodbye. Big crowd there. May 30 Wed. Miss Bowles had a wire from Mr Denton might be sailing tomorrow. I decided to take them all dawn to Wellington. We stayed at the Arcadia. May 31 Thurs A day not to be forgotten. We got to the station a little before ten. The train the troops came by did not arrive till 4.30. However, the children saw a good deal of their father & stuck to him till he got on board. June 1st 1917 to April 26th 1919 Notes written by Mr W. Stewart while Bert overseas. June 1 Fri. Returned from Wellington by mail train after seeing Bert away. Miss Bowles and chn had dinner here. After dinner I drove them home. June 4 Mon. Percy Denton at Denaby. June 7 Thurs Miss Denton left by afternoon train. June 11 Mon. Murray digging out drain in bathing hole paddock. June 12 Tues. Bought light steers. Good South Island steers at £8/14/-. June 14 Thurs Miss Bowles got the Phatoen [phaeton] from Macintosh.

June 16 Sat.

Went over in morning fixed up the harness which George had been cleaning. June 18 Mon. Took Miss Bowles and Jack over for dinner, then drove them to the railway station. They are off to Wellington for a few days. George is staying with me and Enid with Miss Stewart. Paid Miss Bowles cheque for £9/10/- which is her salary up to July 31st.


June 30 Sat. Murray took dray home last night so took up balance of the pipes (for drains). I got Tommy in the phaeton and drove down for Miss Bowles & Jack. They returned from Wellington. July 10 Tues. Went to sale, not much business doing - fats still dragging, hoggets selling well, one line passed in at 27/-. July 11 Wed. Two constables and I had look over Reads property but did not find Read boys who are wanted for camp. July 19 Thurs. Another wet morning. Been a very rough night of thunder and lightning and heavy hail. August 3 Fri. Very wet morning, creeks very high. August 8 Wed. Went to Mrs Adkins funeral. August 9 Thurs Went up to Shannon to Law's sale. First cow sold fetched 56 guineas, next one 40, next one 20 - he would not sell any more. Law brothers bulls sold from 26 - 41 guineas. August 13 Mon. Received a cable from Egypt. August 19 Sun. Looked around ewes and found one with three lambs. Took one away and gave it to Jack. (Lamb died next day.) August 27 Mon.


Mr Oag coming to look around ewes, make a few gates and fix up the hayshed, etc. Sept. 5 Wed.


Murray repairing the drive between the house and woolshed. Oag finished the fowlyard, then started to repair the sheepyards. Sept. 6 Thurs Miss Bowles and family gone to Rongotea for a few days. Sept. 10 Mon. Miss Bowles and family came home in afternoon. Sept. 12 Wed. Mr Richards came along to see about insuring of the house and outbuildings. Sept. 17 Thur Got lambs and ewes in. Jack and Pat assisted with docking. Sept. 22 Sat


Miss Bowles not too well. Sept. 24 - 26


Mrs Janet Stewart stayed to help Miss Bowles. Sept. 29 Sat. George helped me move ewes and lambs. Oct. 2 Tues. Macfarlane took up one and a quarter tons of lime from railway station. Oct. 3 Wed. Hossack brought up balance of lime - three tons. Enid not so well. Oct. 9 Tues. Went to sale. Hoggets selling very good up to 38 shillings at A & W. 900 of MacDonald estate hoggets sold 33 shillings. Oct. 22 Mon. Mustered back hill. Got 2 of Mr Beechers hoggets. Oct. 30 Tues. Mr Beecher took a horse of Mr Johnston to graze here for 1/6 a week. Nov. 2 Fri.


Miss Denton staying a few days. Nov. 8 Thurs Miss Denton, Miss Bowles and Jack over for dinner. Miss Denton on her way home to Wellington. Nov. 17


Went to Mrs Smellies funeral. Took over a load ofgroceries, came from Wellington from farmers co-op. Nov. 19 - 22 Mr Oag helped put in the shearing machine, repair windows and build up woolpress. I went looking for shearers but did not succeed in getting any. Nov. 23 Fri. Miss Denton has rung to say that Bert has been wounded. Nov. 24 Sat. Went over early told Miss Bowies about the cable. She was very cut up about it, the children very good. Nov. 27 Tue. Cable from Bert wounded on the arm. We all feel relieved. Nov. 28 Wed. Murray brought a shearer along. Got the machines going but a small piece broke, only use one machine. Murray took the blade. Got thru 66 betweem them. Gag fleece. Nov. 29 - 30 Shearing again, very hot shearing very slow. Dec. 3 Mon. Mr W.H. Denton there for the day. Dec. 4 - 13


Shearing - Cottle and Murray using the blade. Paid Cottle 30 shillings for the 100. Two Maoris used machines, slow start. Dec. 17 Mon. Hossack came for the wool, 20 bales in all. Dec. 24 Mon. Wet days so couldn't drill. Took all the children downtown after dinner - they had a good time. Dec. 25 Tues. Had a quiet Xmas. Had Miss Bowles and the three children in the afternoon. Also Vivian & Margery. Had a small Xmas tree. Mrs Fulton Father Xmas. Dec. 26 - 29 Finished drilling. Honore cut my hay. Murray started on plough. Honore had to cut thistles first as horses wouldn't tackle them. Dec. 29 Sat Miss Denton up from Wellington.

1905 28 Jan. About 2am. we had first indication baby was coming so after I had roused Mrs Ward to sit with Jen I caught "Jack" & drove for Dr Kennedy & Mrs Smithson. Back about 5.30am. found Jen in great pain which she had had all the time and continued until Ban when our little daughter arrived. Jen had a very severe time owing to the great size of the child who according to the Dr. weight about 121bs. Jen had to take frequent doses of chloroform to deaden the pain. Jen seemed easier about 9 o'clock so after seeing her & the baby I drove the doctor to Levin. Sent wires to Mother & Frank. Jen is getting on well, seems jolly I stayed about the house all day, had a sleep towards evening. 2 Feb. I drove to town, went to the station to meet Mother -C Percy who are up on a visit & left them at Adkins. In afternoon Mother, Percy, Annie & Mr Adkin drove round to see Jen & the baby. Everyone delighted I went back to tea to Annie's. returned home at 9.30. 6 Feb. Watched Nurse bath the baby. She is a fine well built little girl. 8 Feb. Percy married Alice Roaa today in R.C. Church Wellington 10 Feb. Saw Houpa re bush section. He is willing to take £90 cash for his 105 acres bit I found I would need about another 25 acres adjoining to complete the block. This would be difficult to acquire owing several Maoris being interested. Houpa & I went to see Prendergast on subject but nothing satisfactory eventuated. The expenses of acquiring the same would amount to about £40. Mrs Smithson left us tonight. She has been most obliging during her stay. She left after tea having been here 2 weeks for which I paid her £3. 11 Feb. I drove to Levin to get young lady Miss Clara Widdows who is coming to do housework for 2 wks. Mrs Smithson very kind in procuring this help for us. Also sent Jen a present of a young rooster. Speculated in plums 121bs for 2/6 for perserving etc. 10 March

Registered baby! 7 April Took 2 shares in Levin Co-op Butchery. 17 April

In afternoon took Jen to town went to mill & ordered timber for addition to whare. 30 May

About dusk Harris came & enquired if I would sell property I promised to think it over & let him know on Friday. Fri.2 June Russian fleet destroyed by Japanese. All England defeated Australia by 213 runs. Went to Harris re property. Named price of same £7000 cash down £2500. 4 June Snowed heavily during night. Tararuas covered. Ground covered up river. Fri.30 June At 3.30 Annie W.G. Jen & self took the children Vivian, Clifford, and Enid to the Wesleyan Church to be christened. Rev. Wrigley performed the ceremony. 1 July Made new arrangement re work with Adkin, i.e. 1/- per hour ½ time if possible. 6 Aug. (Sun) Jen, baby & I drove to Shannon to see Mr & Mrs Tom Powles. "Jack" went well we reached there after exactly this drive. After dinner Tom & I took a walk round the farm which was looking v. well for time of year. We left about 4.15pm & got home at dark.

31 Aug. This completed my 4th year on this farm. 29 Oct.

Mowb. reported to be engaged to be married. 16 Dec. Wales beat NZ at Cardiff 3-0. First defeat of NZ Rugby team 30 Dec. Went to Advances to settlers office, filled in form asking for loan of £3000 for 10 yrs on "fixed loan" system at 4½%. Man in charge seemed rather doubtful as to whether I would get it.

1908

20 Feb. In afternoon packed up our things for holiday at Plimmerton & left for Wellington by mail train leaving "swags" at Plimmerton en route. Stayed at Fern Hill also Jen & children (who were already in Wellington) Louie much the same but v. weak. 21 Feb. Fine did not do much. I was about to take a tram ride to Seatoun with Jen, Edie & the children in afternoon when I received a wire from Adkin telling me to return home as fires were spreading. We all therefore jumped into tram for Manawatu Station. I left for home by 4.15pm train. called at Adkins for particulars & tea. Found that fires had gone down a lot & the danger apparently over. Home 10pm. 22 Feb. Fine, took a walk round. Fire had spread over a considerable portion of Sect. 14b. on to low hill not much damagedone other than a few posts C battens burnt. Couple of wires had broken. The fire had cleaned up a good deal of scrub & rubbish C had burnt up a few ratas. I concluded that the fire could not do me much damage so I returned to town by mail train. 24 Feb. - March 2 Fine today. Jen & I & children went to Plimmerton & stayed until the following Monday in Mr W.B. Bennett's house at a rental of 25/-. Had fine weather C enjoyed the rest very much. Mrs Bert Giesen staying there at the same time. Mother & Kate paid us visits. Came home 2nd by 2.15 train and then by cab. Found everything alright. 8 March George is 6 months today - has 2 teeth and has sat alone without support and is in really good form. Jen commenced to wean him today. 30 April Measured Totara tree recently burnt it being over 18ft round & 16ft to nearest bough. 10 April (Description of sheep belonging to J.R. McDonald having facial exzema). 1 May Found one ewe affected by this "new disease" so I isolated it in pig yard. 21 May

Went to Claude Palmers sale (clearing) bought wool press (Murrays patent) at £5-5-0 22 May Joe & I took dray to Palmers to get wool press. Found it heavy job to get it on to cart. If it had not been for help kindly given by Mr F. Burnell, 2 other men we would not have got it on. Home at 3.30 but dark when we got it unshipped 24-29 June In Wellington 27 Entry: Down town in the evening with Edie & Miss Daniell of Masterton (Laurie's young lady) staying at "Fern Hill" 11 July

When I got home found Enid was not well, covered with red spots (irritable). Sent Joe for Dr Kennedy who pronounced it to be nothing serious for which we were very thankful as we had fears of scarlet fever or at least measles 14 Enid seems in good spirits & behaves well under circumstances. Jen's throat still bad. 12 July(Sun) Enid had fairly good night but still very swollen about the face & red over parts of her body. Did not go out all day. George performed in the evening by pulling grimaces which we took to be slight convulsions. Jen's throat no better 13 July

Children very much better tho' Jen seems no better at all & has partially no voice, tried compresses, syringe & medicine without much success 15 July Jen's cold no better so stayed in bed all day. I looked after house in morning. Jen was to have appeared in YMCA concert tonight but of course could not go. 16 July Jen got up & cooked dinner but did not feel v. fit. Also did a bit of washing for Jen. 17 July

Fine but very cold. Jen decided to stay in bed again so I did housework. Snow on hills. 18 July Showery with snow v. low on hills. Jen rather better so got up about 10 o'clock. 19th Jen slightly better 21st Jen fairly well. 22 Jen no better so did not get up till late 23 July Beautiful day afternoon drove family to Levin Home 4pm. 24 July Jen felt v. much worse so did not get up. I worked in house all day. In evening Jen felt worse so sent Joe for Dr Kennedy who came up & gave her some medicine. Jen had a fairly good night. 25 July Jen better in morning but stayed in bed all day 26 July(Sun) Did not go out, wet in morning. Jen got up just before dinner a good deal better. Annie & Marjy came over to see her after dinner 9 Aug.(Sun) We all went to Church but I had to go out with the children as George took charge. 12 Aug.

Afternoon Jen & 1 & kiddies drove to Ohau to wedding of Miss Arcus, very successful 21 Sept. Put in piles for Joe's whare. Woollett brought up about 1100ft of timber for me & took back a load of piles for Prouse Bros Ltd. Did not do a deal in posts. Singleton came to look at job C will come up to work on Wednesday. 22 Sept. Siggleton failed to turn up. 24th Siggleton came & we commenced to build where for Joe. Got the shape up. 25 Sept.

Siggleton came & we practically finished outside work on Joe's where, 26th Put up some of the lining in Joe's whare 28 Sept Siggleton commenced on woolshed (addition) 30 "

Siggleton finished 1 Oct.

George walked 4 steps alone tonight & is in great form. 19 Oct.

Joe left today to return to Andrews 11 Nov.

Drove to Levin to vote County Election McLeavey 212 Prouse 145 Richards 210 12 Nov.

Harris sent young man H.B. Wright (just out from Yorkshire) up to ask for work. I engaged him to help me through with shearing. Very decent boy. 17 Nov.

Jen & I went to vote a Parliamentary Election. Rode to see results in evening. Field defeated Brown by 88 votes Fisher beat Hislop 25 Nov.(Wed) Fine cleaned trap. Called for Mother (staying with Annie) and we all drove to Otaki Show, awful hole Long day home at 7.30 15 Dec. Fine. Jen not very well. In afternoon drove to formal opening of new factory of Levin Dairy Co. Very nice building and plant. Afternoon tea commenced to rain about 3.30. I drove to Levin & then called for family at factory. 16 Dec.(Wed) Jen unwell so I did housework. Round stock in pm. Cold wind. Were to have gone to garden party but it was postponed on a/c of weather. Drove as far as Prouses & Stewarts. Bought drake for Christmas. 17 Dec. Strong wind but fine. Lit a lot of fires which burnt very well; 2 or 3 stumps burnt right off. Put in most of the day stoking 19 Dec.(Sat) Drove to Levin in the evening picking up Mrs W. Stewart on the way. When opposite the factory we met Miss Saxon whose horse shied as she had allowed very little room. In passing her trap collided with the phaeton, striking our back wheel throwing the hind wheels out of place, breaking a coupling & splashboard also straining a spring. Mr Dempster kindly bound up broken parts with wire and we went on to Levin but Mrs Stewart returned home with Mrs Or McKenzie who was passing. Went to see McIntosh re repairs. Met Con Saxon who was sorry for accident & offered to pay expenses. Did not get home till late. 22 Dec. Party (on at ) of Adkins to celebrate my birthday 23 Dec. Rode to Levin in afternoon & drove phaeton back repaired by McIntosh 24 Dec. Worked round house in morning in afternoon drove to Levin to see shops & buy Christmas presents. Evening I drove to meet 7.45 train & Alb Kellow who came up to spend Christmas Christmas Day 25 Dec. Up late, Fine weather. After dinner drove to Adkins where we spent afternoon & evening played games etc. till 9pm 26 Dec. Boxing Day. Fine. Hung about in morning. Afternoon drove to Lake & went out in
sailing boat with Alb.

27 December All missed train to town 29 Dec.

Afternoon drove to beach in dray. 30 December Dull. All at beach Margy Vivian & Denton family 31 December Rode home

1907 15 Jan.

Received notice from H. Ward that he intends to quit the milking in 6 months 10 Apl.(Wed) Levin 1st Annual Show Agricultural. Fine but dull weather not settled enough for Jen to go as her cold is not better. I went down about dinner time & had an enjoyable afternoon. The Show was most successful - fair entries - good competitions & a big crowd (estimated 3000-4000) 12 April Home about 5.30 from Adkins. Had party to tea, Mr & Mrs James, Prouse, Miss Sedcole & Nance P. (Prouse?) Misses Bowen Hudson & Vincent C Mr Vincent. This was a record for tea but we managed alright. After tea Les, Clare & Vera Chisholm came over & spent the evening. Had a good time 13 April Jen's cold not much better so she stayed in bed all day. I sent down for Dr Kennedy to have a look at her. He did not seem to think it very serious but ordered her to stay in bed for a few days. He sent some medicine from Day's 10 May Mrs Barrow of Feilding & father came up in morning & looked at property 11 May Went to meeting of Horowhenua County Council re improvements of my road. Council in good mood & granted request. 13 May Harris brought a Mr Hall (father & son) to look at property 14 May Jones brought prospective buyer 15 May

Mr Hall & sons came to have another look at property 21 May

Enid had bad night I went to Levin early morning for medicine. Her cough much better tonight 23 May Jen unwell with neuralgia. Laid up most of the day. Enid slightly better. 28 May

Rain snow on hills could not be a worse day. 1st Day Wngtn Prov: Confer­ence Farmers' Union. Mr Strawbridge & son came for 3rd time to look at the place. They eventually offered Jones £16 cash which I refused. Evening I went to Smoke Concert Farmers Union. -Very successful. Sang 'Hearts of Oak' 'Dinah' Home 12.30am

29 May Went to Levin listened to Conference for some time in am. pm. went with delegates to State Farm. Saw milking machine at work. 20 June I drove to the station & got phaeton drove home & took Jen & baby to Levin for drive. We all like the phaeton very much, enjoyed the drive. It is a very neat little vehicle. 24 July On arrival home found Harris with Mr Dixon of Wellington who had come up to see the place. Seemed pleased though feed v. bare. Mr Dixon decided to send a valuer, Mr Rutherford to look at the place. I went to talk matters over with Mr Adkin after tea. 25 July Harris came up after dark & I finally decided to offer the property at £16-10-0 spot cash or £17 on terms. £2000 down £3500 on 1st mortgage at 5%. £1640 on 2nd mortgage at 5% for 4 yrs from Sept. 1st 1907 6 August Fine, but blowing gale from East. Sale of my dairy cows. Up at daybreak getting things ready. Judd did not arrive until about 9.30 when we numbered the cows & fed out hay. Mr Tom Powles mustered heifers for me C Mr A the bull. Miss Salmon helped Jen with lunch which we served in the trap shed. The crowd that I anticipated did not arrive. There was rather a poor attendance as there is such a tremendous lot of cows at present on the market I felt rather dubious about the prices. However I took £160 for 27 cows, about £6 average the remaining 9 (late calvers - old) being passed in. The top price reached was £10 for "Iris" paid by Alf Anderson who purchased 7 or 8. Those present considered the sale a good one. The pigs realized £3/5/0 38/- 31/- 2/11/- some 24/-. I also sold our gig for Ell. Totara piles passed in. Jen & I were both dead beat so we turned in early. Tom Powles was of very great assistance & was very kind. 29 August

Mackenzie married Miss Bartholomew 1 Sept. Drove Mother to Adkins where she stayed until after Church. Jen & I drove down to see Billy's hotel in afternoon but Jen couldn't stand the smell of varnish so came home again at once. Jen better in evening. 7-8 Sept. Fine Round sheep C dug up garden. Afternoon Enid & I drove to Levin for messages. Jen fairly well. In evening she began to get restless so I went to bed as I was rather tired. Jen & Miss McIntyre turned in about 10 o'clock. About midnight Jen woke up & being uneasy I dressed, caught horse, harnessed up I set off for the doctor C nurse about 10 o'clock C arrived back with His Smithson about 2.15am, the doctor following about 10 mins. later. We then found that Jen had given birth to a boy about 2 o'clock & the boy was "roaring lustily". Jen had a very severe time although it was short. The doctor found her fairly well. He had gone home & we all turned in again for a sleep at 4.30am . Baby weighed 11½ lbs a week later. and slept till 8.30. Sun. 8 Sept. Wet, did not do much. Afternoon I took Miss McInt re home, sent wires to Mother Frank Louie and Alb. Kellow called at Adkins. 26 Oct.

Harris, Sussex sent man to look at the 270 ac. I am offering at £15. I drove to Levin with Jen in afternoon 30 Oct. Beautiful. We all went to Palmerston to enable Jen to do some shopping. Met Charlie Page in Hannahi boot shop - had not seen him for about 16 or 18 yrs. Successful day very tired 2 Nov. (Sat) In afternoon at 4 o'clock we all drove to Levin, I registered the baby. Home at dark. 7 Nov. Afternoon I took Jen & babies down to Levin C they are spending a week at the Hotel Arcadia. I went down after tea again & took Jen to see comedy "Jane" by Amateurs, very good I stayed at Arcadia all night. Browns Temperance Hotel burnt out. (Arcadia owned by Billy Wilson I think) 29 Dec.(Sun) Fine, we all went to Wesley Church when George Herbert was christened by Mr Wrigley. He behaved exceedingly well. Afternoon we drove to Adkins to see Aunty & Uncle Ralph who are visiting there, Home to tea.

1904:

Jan. 1: Mr Adkin and I rode over to look at my big Bullocks on lower hills. Inspected house on way home. Everything satisfactory.

Jan 2: Evening I visited house. Roof on.

Jan. 4: Flooring down in bedrooms. Range set in.

Jan. 8: Les & I walked over to cottage in evening to look round and get measure­ments of windows.

Sun. Jan. 10 In afternoon drove Annie & Clare round to see building. Everything was approved of.

Mon. Jan. 11 After work took Dora & Marjorie over to see the house. Their remarks on the same were very amusing and they expressed themselves highly delighted with it. Forwarded first progress payment (E100) to Douglas builder.

Tues.Jan. 12 Fine and very warm - Les, Jack and I bathed in Xoputaroa. After tea rode over to building. Paper up in hall & bedrooms. Tank stand built, wash- house floored.

Thur.Jan. 14 Jen arrived by seven train and on Friday Jan. 15 rode up to see house very pleased with it.

Tues.Jan. 22 Bricklayer putting copper in wash house

Fri. Jan. 22 Painter almost finished last coat of paint - Building looks very well.

Sat. Jan. 23 Carpenters up to put in cupboards and mantlepieces. Wardrobe most satis­factory

At 3.15pm. I went over to see the effect of fire on Lower Hill (Sect.I3) Found four totaras bunny fiercely. Carried water from hole in gully and saved a large totara near dividing fence (Sect. 12). Wind turned round to the east at about 5.30, it drove fire right across terrace (Sect. 12). The dry timber burning very fiercely. The whole of lower end of farm is now ablaze. Home about 7.45 very tired.

Jan.27 (Wed) About 2.15pm. went over to the building to see Smart re "passing" same. Found several alteratioas had to be made, notably front to be put on wardrobe, scullery to be completed, paper to be patched up etc. Building on the whole satisfactory. Jan drove up and we cleaned the place up a bit before leaving.

Jan.29 (Fri) Posted second E100 to Doeglas

Jan.30 Sat. After tea Jan & I rode over to the house to put calico over the windows and to sweep out rooms. Got back at 9.30

Feb 1st Up early preparing for annual training camp. Company fell in at 10 o'clock and marched to parade ground at Weraeoa (back of Bartholomews Mill). Pitched camp before dinner afterwards we paraded under Lieut. Brown and went through riding drill. Capt. Pringle of Palmerston Nth was in charge of camp in absence of Capt. McLeavey who was not well enough to take charge. Staff S.M. Dodd on duty as instructor. Posted guard at 7pm.

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Feb.3 (Wed) Fine. Drill on parade ground in morning - foot drill at 6 o'clock - mounted parade 10 o'clock. Afternoon we held a programme of sports - very enjoyable and successful. Fairly large crowd of spectators. Sgt. Booth got both section events, very good performance. Afternoon tea was served by Phipps. Jen, Annie, Miss Park, Marjorie and Miss Sutherland 'drove' down in trap. Jen entered my lady in addition race by added up incorrectly. Went to see Jen in evening back to camp 10.30.

Feb.4 (Thur) Fine drill on parade ground all day. Not much fun. Aldridge, Stokes and Nelson went to Palmerston North at midday for banquet for returned troopers. Capt. Pringle also left camp and did not return. In evening had a "sing song" in mess tent.

Feb.5 (Fri) Went out to the sand hills all day. Had a good time. Practiced skirmishing also furnishing Cossack posts. In evening had smoke. concert - great success. Members of Levin Fire Brigade present also crowd of civilian Maories under Corpl. Tahuri performed haka which was extremely funny. Billy promises to be a first rate non-com. Concert over at 10.30. All very tired.

Sat. Feb. 6 Reveille 6.15. Struck camp. Had rather an easy day and good lot of fun. Got everything in order and ready to ship by 3 o'clock. After seeing everything in order, I returned home.

Mon. Feb. 8 After breakfast roder to house and waited for McLeavey to look at young steers. 2i yr. Sold them to him for £4-5-0 (16 of them). Put in time up to dinner in gathering up waste timber round cottage and carrying round to the back of wash house. In evening Annie, Mr A. & self went out to Mrs Winder's. Met Dr Kennedy & wife, Mrs Isherwood & Miss Varcoe of Wellington. Enjoyable evening.

Tues. Feb 9 Douglas put up wardrobe. Great improvement on old one. Almost completed carpentering on job. Still a few odd things to do.

Wed. Feb.10 - Jones the plumber put in pipe drains from scullery across yard to rear of wash house. Drain put in far too shallow. War declared between Russia and Japan.

Mon. Feb. 15 Mother arrived by 7.30 train, having come up to fix up furniture.

Tues.Feb.16 After dinner Mater & Les drove round to the house and made a start at squaring up. I went to station and saw furniture on the cart then fixed up insurance on house with Pullen £250 on house, £75 on furniture. Paid 31/- freight on goods. Went up to the house, Mother & Les almost finished kitchen oil cloth, and commenced to clean windows. Home at 7.45. In evening mother & I fixed blinds on rollers.

Wed. Feb.17 After breakfast mended front gate then made curtain boards and then orde over to house. Had a very successful day. Put up all the blinds and also curtains in front rooms. Put down square carpet in front room, also fixed up kitchen and put down oil cloth in spare room. Very pleased with the way the house is shaping.

Thur.Feb.18 - Before breakfast packed up a lot of books etc. ready to take to house. Went round about 9 o'clock, Man with piano waiting for us. Unloaded successfully. Finished the furnishing and the house looks

first class. Annie came round in afternoon also later on Clare, Dora, Gilbert and Marjorie. Everyong pleased with place. Mother proved invalu­able as managing director.

Fri. Feb.19 Went over to house and with Laing's assistance moved earth from front of house to rear. Made rather fair job. - Foot parade of H.M.R. in evening. First time in new orderly room (i.e. old school house).

Finance committee meeting first - passed camp A/c. Mr Mitchell & Mr Faulkner were then formally elected Lietuants. Afterwards I as Sergt Major was presented with very handsome marble clock from members of Corps. Made a short speech. Short sing song.

Sat. Feb.20 - Left for Wellington by 5.30 train. Jen, Edie and Mr Pence (Percy's friend from Calcutta) met me at the station. After which we walked to Queen's Wharf. to see Mr Pence off to catch boat at Lyttleton. Mr. P. voted very nice on all sides.

Mon. Feb.22 - Shopping all day. In evening Alb. came up and we had a musical evening. About 10 o'clock I went part way home with Alb. afterwards I walked up to see Fred Pope and had an interesting chat with him. Suddenly discovered that it was 12.30am so had supper and walked home. Found Mother, Jen and rest of family in great state of alarm concerning my whereabouts., and they were greatly mystified but were relieved at my reappearance.

Wed. Feb.24 Frank and I walked round town in morning shopping also paid a visit to J.P. Firth at Wellington College, who was very pleased to see us. Home to dinner at 12.30pm. and afterward dressed for wedding ceremony at 1.30. Alb. Kellow assisted me as best man and Edie waited on Jen as bridesmaid. Rev. W.C. Oliver performed ceremony which went off exceedingly well. Afternoon tea - speeches by Rev. W.C. Oliver, self Mr Adkin, Alb, Mr Kellow and Pater. Frank took several photos. Alb and Edie drove with us to the station. Arrived at Levin safely and came home round back way. Laings boys soon got to work tin kettling but I soon silenced them. The whole day passed off exceedingly well and Jan and I were very happy to come to our new home.

Thur.Feb. 25 - Spent day honeymooning and putting things straight.

Feb. 26 Les over in morning: in afternoon packages containing presents arrived from town. Great fun unpacking. Towards evening Les, Clare, Dora & Margy arrived and assisted. They all stayed to tea, so we had our first tea party in our new home. Good fun.

Feb. 27 In morning Malcolm arrived canvassing for Prouse for County Council election. Drove down with him recorded my votes and after a little shopping was driven back. Worked at carpet on bedroom all afternoon.

March 12 After dinner Billy & I had a trial of Carson's Trap. No good. Drove up home and back to Levin taking Jen with us. Arranged with McIntosh for trap for £18 complete.

March 15 Had rather heated argument with Laing about matters in general. I wanted him to stay home and get peas in on Wednesday & he wanted to go away and plow. After some talk he recognised that my request was reasonable and he agreed to stay.

Mon.Mar. 21 - As I went down for the milk in the morning Laing gave notice to leave, i.e. cancel agreement for milking on shares: to take effect in 6 months hence. I felt rather relieved as things have not been going satisfactory of late. He mentioned his brother in law H.Ward as a likely successor.

Tue.Mar. 29 - Wet all day. Put up wardrobe in spare room and fixed up cupboard in Kitchen. Jen not very well. H.Ward arrived to see me again. We went through the agreement together and I showed him amount paid out to Laing during year (E150). He seemed satisfied with agreement except labour in cropping where he thought unfair to himself to have to do all labour. I am to see if I can get over the difficulty and meet him in some way,

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Wed. Mar.30 - About 3.30pm. rode to Levin to vote on the proposal to metal Foxton Road. The proposal was lost by large majority.

March 31 Billy towed up our gig about 12 o'clock and after dinner he & Jen drove to Levin in it returning about 6 o'clock.

April 4 - About 10.30 Jen & I started to drive to beach to spend holiday there with Adkins. Margy drove with us and the trap drove very well. Had accident to new trap i.e. end of shaft broke off apparently for no reason. I bound it up with flax for home journey. It took us about 2 hrs to drive home.

April 29 Mowbray sailed from Auckland for San Francisco on holiday tour round the world.

4 August Heaviest fall of snow then recorded both on hills and in Levin.

13 (Sat) Aug went with Will (Billy Wilson) to watch Britain v NZ at Athletic Park. Big crowd waiting for gates to open. NZ won 9-3

16 Nov. Telegram from Frank to say Laura was seriously ill

17 Nov. Another telegram Laura had "passed away quietly" yesterday

6 Dec. Went to Wellington by 4.40 train to meet Percy who is returning from India

Percy arrived about 9.30pm but passengers did not land as Dr did not go out to examine them till next morning. Mother Edie, Frank & Self walked to Wharf to see boat (about 10pm)

Up at 5.30am. Mother, Will Laurie & self went out in boat from Star B.C. Sheds to the "Waikare" in stream. After seeing Percy we returned by which time the boat arrived at the wharf. Breakfast at home then down town with Percy to customs then inspected the new customs house built by W.H. Bennett. Splendid view from Tower. Afternoon rode round in tram cars. Island Bay Thorndon

29 Dec. Telegram from Percy saying that everything is settled re Miss Ross. Sent reply of congratulations.

Jan. 5 Mon. Sledged boulders to cowshed to pave yard. Drove to meet children arrived from Wellington after staying with Rob & Carrie tor a fortnight. About 9.30 Enid called my
attention that Adkins sheep were being disturbed. Found sheep tearing around the paddock with dog close behind. gat a quick shot, must have hit him -for he gave sundry howls and disappeared. Jan. 6 Tues. Went to Levin sale. Saw yellow dog in Queen St, very lame, apparently the one I shot last night. Jan. 8 Thurs Helped Percy Prouse with his hay. In afternoon went to Wellington meeting Frank in Levin. Found mother fairly well. Jan. 9 Fri. Beautiful day. Frank and I took Edith over to Rona Bay where she is staying with Mrs Wardell for a holiday while a nurse is relieving with mother. Jan. 10 Sat. Frank and I did business in town. Had morning tea with Percy. Afternoon I spent with Robert discussing possibility of water power here. Jan. 11 Sun. Will and I went to Sydney St cemetery in morning. At home in afternoon. Went to tea at Roberts. Evening at Fernhill. Jan. 15 Thurs Showery. Took children to second day of Levin Show. Big crowd, successful turnout. Mr W.F.Massey present. Jan. 16 Fri. George and I put barbed wire on turnip fence. Jan. 17 Sat.


I made a small dam in creek for the children to bathe in. Jan. 22 Thurs Fine but threatening at times. Up at 5 a.m. George rode to Levin to secure Mr Dag. I met George at Prouses and brought home hay tedder and rake. Dag came about 8 & commenced turning hay with tedder - a good implement, making a good job. About 9.30 Percy Prouse, Cliff Adkin, George and Poad turned up and we made a start soon after 10 to cart. George worked on horse rake and did well. Later helped Adkins. Owed Dag 24 hours altogether at 2/- per hour. Jan. 28 Wed. Enid's 15th birthday - had a party so I amused myself with the nippers. Mrs Vickers up for the afternoon and evening. Jan. 29 Thurs ln evening concert in aid of Mardi Gras. Local politicians touting for their respective candidates for Queenship. Mangahao Quartet sang "Lovely Night" with indifferent success. Mottershead, Denton, Franklin and Gilbert. Jan. 31 Sat.


About 10.30 drove up the Ohau for a picnic with Mrs Vickers and family. Bathing and enjoyable day. Town in evening. Feb. 1 Sun.


Motored to Mangahao with quartette party. Sang several part songs. Feb. 4 Wed. Very hot. Carted some metal to cowshed. Alb Kellow rang in evening. Met him in town. He has news of a move to Feilding - good rise for him but sorry he is going away. Feb. 5 Thurs News that schools not reopening for another week an account of influenza. Feb. 7 Sat. Very hot. We all went up the Ohau for rest of the day and had an enjoyable time. Mrs Vickers and family Misses Beckett were also of the party. Feb. 10 Tues. Took 100 wether lambs to sale, sold them for 17/- best price of the yards today. Best woolly lambs sold for 18/4. Feb. 11 Wed. Beautiful day. Carnival day for the Mardi Gras. All went to Levin. Good procession in morning. Afternoon sports and competitions in Domain. I ran Kaiser sideshow and made gross profit of 12 pounds netting 9 pounds one shilling. Lot of money collected during the day. Feb. 13 Fri. Went to Levin to meet Vi Kellow and children who came over from Foxton to join us in a picnic up the Ohau. Mrs Vickers and family. Enjoyable day Alb K. motored over in evening. Feb. 16 Mon. Took Enid to Wanganui to go to College. Found Frank and family were away at beach. Enid & I stayed with Mr & Mrs Stanley Dixon. Feb. 17 Tues. Fine and very hot. Went to Wanganui racecourse to ram fair. Best Romney 4 1/2 - 5 guineas, southdowns 12 gns studs to 3 gns for inferior. In afternoon Enid & l went to College to see Miss Cruickshank who took particulars of Enid's schooling. Frank and family came back at dinnertime. Feb. 18 Wed. Went with Frank and Enid to Kai Iwi beach. Took girls out in afternoon. Later Mary and I went with Enid to College where we left her after a good took around. Enid seemed pretty cheerful. Tea in town with Frank and Ethel. Feb. 19 Thurs Went with Ethel to see Mr & Mrs Beavon. Left for home by Mail train. Met Sweet at Marton. Feb. 23 Mon. Went to Masterton by early train. Clare travelled with me. Met Laurie at Woodville. Afternoon tea at Mathon Lodge. Billy Wilson called for me at 7 p.m. Feb. 24 Tues. Fine. Back at Mathon Lodge by 10. Helped in sundry ways. Wedding at 1 o'clock Miss Daniell married Mr John Smith. Evening spent in games and dancing. Feb. 26 Wed. Helped dismantle marquee and tidy up. Went to sale with Len and Fred Daniell. Rang Mrs Jack Tatham - invited to go to Homewood. Collected by Mr Laing, interesting journey out, country very dry. Mrs Jack and Auntie Tatham met at Mr Laings. Met Mrs Tatham Snr and all Horner family. Feb. 28 Sat. Arrived in Masterton, saw Amy and then to Mathon Lodge till train time. Spent evening at Fernhill talking to mother who is only fairly well. Spent all next day with Mother. March 3 Wed. Wille and I went to Manakau in dray to Mr Houghton's place and bought 4 two-tooth rams at 5 1/4 gns, brought them home in the dray. Nice sheep, well grown & plenty of condition. March 6 Tues. Went over to Foxton to see Alb & Vi Kellow who are moving to Feilding. March 9 Tues.

Went to Levin sale. Bought a 4 tooth Lincoln ram for 2 3/4 guineas to put with young ewes as an experiment. This is to make a comparison with its progeny that of the Romney rams.

March 15 Mon. Went to a farewell dance tor Jack Holdaway given by Mr & Mrs D.S.MacKenzie. Pleasant evening. March 17 Wed. School swimming sports in afternoon. George in a big lot of events and pulled off 3 firsts and 1 second. Beautiful day, big crowd of spectators & successful turn out. March 19 Fri. Evening telephone message from Levin to say R.G.Denton had arrived. Came by taxi to top of Queen St, I went along to meet him. March 20 Sat. Rob and l took lots of levels ex measurements for the proposed water power stunt. In afternoon went to see Willie Stewarts wheel, also Mr Tantrum's and Sid Butt's operations. Rob drew up sundry plans and will work out cost when he returned to town. March 21 Sun. Took boys to church. In afternoon went to hear Rob address the Sunday School. Tea at Cheslyn Rise. March 22 Mon.


Took Rob to early train. Wittaker and two men came to put in big window in dining room. Heavy rain about 4 but not much rain came in where Whittaker had taken wall down. Roly Denton walked in about 4 p.m. - had been to Auckland to soldiers warrant - his wire didn't reach me. March24 Wed. Methodist Garden Party at Mrs Owens. Went down to give a hand. Had fortune told by Mrs Wilson. March 26 Fri. In afternoon Aunt and I went to Levin to select wall paper for dining room. Whittaker has done most of the work on the window. March 27 Sat. Cut down and burnt two of the trees on the lawn that had grown too big. Afternoon we went up the river with Mrs Vickers and co. March 28 Sun. Harvest Festival at Methodist Church. All turned out and afterwards drove to Heatherlea to Mr Sorenson's for afternoon. March 29 Mon. At dinnertime received wire from Will to say that Mother had passed away this morning. Decided to go to Wellington tonight. Arrived in Wellington 7.30 and found some family there. March 30 Tues. Visited 'Nanny' Richards to tell her of Mother's passing. Sent lots of wires away. In afternoon Will and I walked up to 'hilltop'. Laurie and Frank arrived. March 31 Wed. Funeral at 2 p.m. Lots of friends present. Rev. Chapman took service. Rev. James Paterson assisted. Mother was buried in Sydney St. cemetery alongside father. April 1 Thurs Laurie and I returned to Levin. Auntie and Jack met us. Laurie lost his brief bag - taken by mistake by another passenger. Laurie stayed night. April 2 Fri.


Good Friday. Took Laurie to train. Cleaned up some of trees around house. April 4 Sun. Went to church in morning and to Church of England in the evening. Met Miss Rose Harvey - walked round to Keedwells with her and met Capt. and Mrs Harvey. April 8 Thurs Worked inside laying the linoleum and cleaning up house. April 9 Fri. In afternoon went to see Flo Gardner married to Mr Bennett. April 11 Sun. Did not go from home. Vivian and Agnes came to see us and stayed for tea. I walked home with them in evening. April 13 Tues. Went to sale - market only fair. Male choir in evening and farewell to Rev. J.H.Haslam. April 14 Wed. Rev. & Mrs Haslam called to say goodbye before leaving for Auckland. Carpenters almost finished. April 15 Thurs Did some asphalting around the house. April 16 Fri. Walker came an afternoon and finished oiling inside. In evening all the Cheslyn Rises came over also Mrs Vickers and her three boys and Miss Beckett, a very enjoyable evening. April 17 Sat. Meeting of parents in evening. Parents whose children travel by coach to school agreed to subscribe to make coachman's wage up to one pound a day. April 19 Mon. Painted bath with aluminium paint. April 21 Wed. Went to Levin gasworks. Bought 50 gallons of tar. Leak in tin so lost about 2 gals. on way home. Billy Wilson brought his brother George (from Sydney) to see us for the evening. They walked back home after an enjoyable evening. (Spread tar on paths next day) April 23 Fri. Cleaned path westside of house, gave it a coating of tar. Brought some sandstone from terrace to put on path as top dressing. April 25 Sun. ANZAC Memorial Service in Century Hall, big crowd and successful gathering. Evening Methodist church with Willie - unveiling of Honours Board by Rev. Frost (new minister) April 27 Tues. Paid a visit to D.S.MacKenzie and he re-stopped one tooth. April 28 Wed. Engine Drivers on Gov't Railways went on strike at midnight last night. All traffic held up. In evening Willie and I went to annual election of Levin School committee. I was nominated among others - came fourth on list. W. Thomson 68, W.G. Vickers 64, C. Short 59, H. Denton 58, F.G. Roe 53, J.W. Proctor 49, T. Hobson 47,. C.H. Bould 46, Rev. W.F. Grove being elected. Rev. Grove elected secretary. April 30 Fri. Went to funeral of Mrs Mrs Kilsby of Koputuroa. Appearances of a settlement of railway strike. May 2 Sun.


Went to C. of E. in evening May 3 Mon. Railway strike over. Trains running. Prince of Wales tour being carried through two days later than first intended. May 4 Tues. George and I went to Palmerston North to see Prince of Wales. All neighbouring schools represented. Teachers and school committee members looked after children. everyone well looked after by Palm. North authorities. Had goodview of Prince of Wales. Children well behaved. May 5 Wed.

Jack and I went to Wellington. Travelled with Mr Adkin Clare and Viv. Rob and I visited Riley & Co. Electrical Engineers, also Turnbull & Janes to get estimates re dynamos etc. (Enid back for first term holidays) In evening we all went down town to see arrival of Prince of Wales.

Tremendous crowd & great enthusiasm. Splendid illuminations.

May 6 Thurs Mr Adkin, Jack and I went to Town Hall tor Civic Reception. Building packed. Had to wait about 2 hours. Prince spoke excellently and was received with great enthusiasm. Afternoon big review of territorials and returned men at Newtown Park. 40,000 people there. Prince shook hands with about 1500 returned men. Left Jack at Allenville all night. May 7 Fri Big childrens demonstration at Parliament brounds. Jack went with Roseneath children and saw all the sights. About 12,000 children paraded. Prince received great reception. Everything passed off splendidly. Afternoon all children visited the "Renown" the warship on which the Prince was travelling. I went to Athletic Park to see football match Wellington (winners of Ranturly Cup (Shield)1 v Digger team (winners of Kings Cup in England) Exciting match. Digger won 23-8. Prince of Wales present for about 20 minutes. In evening went down town to see illuminations and to bring Jack home. May 8 Sat.


Came home by Napier Mail. Enid met us, looking very well and bonny. May 13 Wed. First dance of Nikau assemblies. I officiated as one of M.C.'s - good turn out(S.B.) May 14 Fri. Aunt went to Shannon to see Dora's baby christened. May 16 Sun. I took George and Enid to C. of E. in morning. Afternoon Enid Auntie and I drove to cemetery. May 17 Mon. Painters came to put second coat of paint. I went on with the harrowing of the far terrace paddock. George and Jack took over in the afternoon while I dug the rushes. May 21 Fri. Walker and men painted roof, finished at dinnertime. Dipped 62 new lambs (shorn hoggets bought at sale for 19/-) after heating up about 20 gals. dip. May 23 Sun. Took children to church and brought Mr and Mrs Sorenson and family home to dinner. May 25 Tues. Male choir. Tea at Cheslyn Rise, and children stayed for evening. May 26 Wed. Bridge party at Mrs W.M. Clark's. May 27 Thurs Crutching and drenching own iambs. George dosed them and I crutched. Not feeling very well, had to stop. George finished drenching and I went to bed after a hot bath. Aunt doctored me but temp. rose over 103F - she telephoned Dr. Gow - pronounced influenza and gave me some dope. During night I perspired tremendously. Aunt up and down several times during night. I could not sleep much. May 28 Fri. Feeling rather easier but aching all over. Dr. came again and told me to stay in bed until Tuesday. Enid went over to Cheslyn Rise to stay in order that she may not miss her schooling. May 29 Sat. Feeling better snow on hills. May 31 Mon. Enid missed train to Wanganui as permission to go arrived too late. June 1 Tues. Enid went to Wanganui, back to school. Clare took her down I was up about 2 hrs. sitting in chair in bedroom. Rather groggy so glad to get back to bed. Boys returned to school. June 2 Wed.


Got up about 9 a.m. sat around dining room. Aunt drove to Levin and brought back Kate, just arrived from Hastings. June3 Thurs Up at 9 a.m. Boys and I took load of hay to hoggets. Will Denton and Clare walked over in evening. Feeling fit. June 4 Fri. Will D. walked over from Cheslyn Rise and we had a stroll round. Afternoon I cut down willow tree. June 8 Tues. Went to Levin sale. Tea at Matheson's. Male choir. George came home from school feeling bad. June 10 Thurs Dance of Nikau assemblies - enjoyable evening - went with Clare and Clifford in car. June 11 Fri. Went with Willie to Ohau to see land to be sold by F.S. Easton, recently owned by John Kebbell. Place looking well, favourably impressed with what I saw. Took Willie's two girls in Willie's buggy. Clifford in bed with influenza. June 13 Sun. Took Auntie, Kate to church. Evening went to C. of E. walked home with Billy Vickers. June 15 Tues. Went to land sales F.S. Easton's at Ohau. Five of smaller sections sold - 88, 82, 69 pounds and 44/10/-, remainder passed in. Tremendous crowd. Alf McLeavy bought nice section at 44/10/-. June 16 Wed. Re-opening of Levin savage Club. Entertainment by Wellington team. Chas Blinkhorne Chief Savage. Enjoyable. June 17 Thurs Evening played bridge at Mrs Vickers. June 18 Fri. Men working on road reforming etc. June 19 Sat Went to see beorge play football in match - school and cadets which was drawn. June 20 Sun. Aunt and children went to church. Kate and I stayed home. June 21 Mon. Went to Levin on a visit to tne school with Rev. Grove. Went for a short jaunt to Koputuroa with Dr. Gow in his car, Tea with Mr and Mrs Grove. School committee meeting. Home in the rain. June 22 Tues.


Jack's 9th birthday. June 23 Wed. Wet day. Went to Palmerston North show with Mr and Mrs Stewart. Had good look round. Mainly interested in football match Wanganui v Te Aute. Te Aute won senior match 14-8. June 29 Tues.


Concert by male choir in evening. Crowded house. Took whole family also Miss Beckett. Public seemed to think well of performance. July 2 Fri. A man E. Russell came up looking for work - job cutting rata, 5 logs altogether at 16/- a cord. July 3 Sat. Went with George and school football team to Kuku. OurBoys were beaten by Manakau 9-0. Evening at MissBartholomews. July 5 Mon. Bridge party by Mrs W.S. Park in evening. July 6 Tues. Levin sale, much brisker F.S. Easton sold Kebbell's ewes in lamb to Lincoln 3b/10s, 36/3, Z,A/1. Good sheep. Meted said ewes in lamb 38/-, Simoox 38/b. Fat wethers over 2 pounds. Hoggets 25/6. School committee in evening. Indignation at Board turning down building of additions. (9 years since Jen went) July 7 Wed.


Meeting of Levin Dairy Co. - some excitement re reserve fund part of which it was suggested should be capitalised. Motion carried. Meeting of Savage Club in evening. July 8 Thurs Russell who had 3 and 1/2 cords of rata declined to carry out his Job, so paid nim off 56/-, glad to be rid of him.


July 12 Mon. Paid Whittakers account 99 pounds etc. July 13 Tues. Male choir. Enjoyable dance to farewell two ladies from State Farm. George rather seedy.


July 18 Sun. Took toys to church in morning. In afternoon Dr. and Mrs Gow and children, Mr & Mrs Lancaster, Mrs Smith and Miss Groves drove up to see us - had quite a houseful.. Evening went to C. of E. July 19 Mon. Mrs Vickers rang to say their pony had died during the night. As Mr Vickers was away I offered to bury the pony. Rough digging for about 2 hours. July 20 Tues. Male choir in evening. Bad accident by Middlemiss' shop. Motorbike and side car ran into Horrobin's gig. Two girls badly hurt. July 21 Wed. Went to furniture sale of T. Jenman - bought chesterfield suite for 18/2/6. Good buying I think. Went down in dray. July 23 Fri. Went to Wellington by Napier Mail. July 24 Sat. Called on Cutfield in Bank of Australasia. Will and I went to Athletic Park in afternoon. Percy's to tea after calling on Mr & Mrs Kellow. Mr K. much better. Edith and Kate walked round after tea. July 26 Mon. Finished front drive. Evening Mr Lancaster, Mrs Emith, Miss Grove and Mrs L. Adkin over tor evening. July 27 Tues. Worked on road up hill most of day. July 30 Fri. Biked to town to see Fletcher re firewood for school. July 31 Sat. Went to see football. Rovers beat High School 6-0 very good game, best the boys have played. Spent evening at Mrs Cyril Bartholomews. August 2 Mon.


Rang up Mr Grove and Constable Bagrie re loss of my bike (from outside C. of E. night before.) - no knowledge of it. August 3 Tues. Went to Levin, motored with Mr Keys to Manakau - male choir giving some items at concert. August 5 Thurs Nikau dance in evening. Went down with Clifford. August 6 Fri. Mrs Dr. Gow brought up her father mother to see us. Mr & Mrs Collie from Newtown, Wellington. Went to Mrs Vickers in the evening. August 7 Sat.


Went to town and we walked to see Mrs Cyril Bartholomew. August 10 Tues. Beastly cold and bad throat. Male choir and afterwards to Mrs Percy's. August 11 Wed. Bachelors ball in evening. Good turn out. Went down with Cliff. August 13 Fri. Rode down to Mrs Vickers in evening. Took Shirley home. August 14 Sat. Went to town and went with Shirley to Mrs S. Mackenzie's tor tea. Afterwards Stuart and I went to Club to farewell Jesse Whyte going to Wellington. Lots of congratulations re engagement with Shirley. August 15 Sun. Aunt and boys went to C. of E. while I cooked dinner. Wrote to Frank, Edith and Enid. Shirley and I walked to Mrs Cyril Bartholomews to tea and to meet Mrs Cyril's mother Mrs Brown. In evening Cyril and wife, Shirley and I went to C. of E. at Weraroa. August 16 Mon. Nice letter from Enid. August 17 Tues. Afternoon tea with Shirley. Tea at Mrs Vincent's. Male choir. Afterwards School Committee met - as a result of unsatisfactory attitude of Educ. Dept. re additions to school, committee resigned in body. August 18 Wed. Evening, called to see S. afterwards went to Savage Club. Sang solo. George very bad cold, coughed all nignt. August 20 Fri. Went to Wellington with Shirley, both stayed at Fernhill took her to see London Pierrots in evening. State school holidays. George came top in sixth class. Jack 3rd in 2nd class. August 21 Sat. Shirley and I went to Littlejohns, saw Percy and I bought Shirley her engagement ring. In afternoon Edith Shirley and I went to see Carrie and Rob - introduced Shirley to them all. Later went to Allenville for tea and evening. August 22 Sun. Shirley, Edith and I went to Wesley church. Later Shirley and I walked to see friends in Thorndon Mr Mrs Thorpe.Evening Percy and Alice and family over for tea. August 23 Mon. Shirley and I intended to go to Newtown but trams did not run on account of coal strike. Took Shirley to ferry wharf, lett tor LyttIeton by Wahine. I walked to station. August 26 Thurs George and Jack drove to station to meet Norrie and Harry coming to stay tor holidays. Games in evening. August 27 Fri. I went to station in afternoon to meet Enid, home for holidays. She is looking splendid and is very jolly. Creeks are as high today as I have ever seen them. August 28 Sat. George and Norrie went to Foxton by motor. George playing in School team against Foxton. Boys beaten 17-0. August 29 Sun. Took chn. to Methodist church in morning. September 1 Wed. Billy Wilson took Will S. an me by car to Waikanae to look for property for sale. 209 acres freehold at 65 pounds and 564 acres leasehold at rental of 300 pounds p.a. with 4yrs to run. Had good look round, found a lot of work required on freehold and could not see much money in proposition. September 2 Thurs Billy Wilson, Will S. and I went to Palmerston Nth. with Sawtell to see Maxwell car - had a spin in it. Also saw secondhand Buick for 500 pounds and an Overland at 465 pounds September 5 Sun. Went for motor ride with Willie, Roberts instructing. September 6 Mon.


Children went back to Wellington. Enid went with them to stay a few days at Fernhill. Shirley returned from South, met her. Looking splendid. Been to Fernhill to see Edith. September 10 Fri. In evening went to Mrs Vickers with children and Shirley. September 12 Sun. Took children to church and took Shirley home to dinner and weekend. September 13 Mon. Adkin family round in evening. Shirley also here. September 18 Sat. In evening Shirley and I went to tea at Mrs Cyril Bartholomews. September 19 Sun. Shirley and l spent day at her brother's place (Mr W.M. Beckett) Enjoyable time. Church in evening. September 22 Wed. Went with Shirley to visit Mrs Hitchcock. September23 Thurs Set fires going on terrace - burnt well. Went to meeting with Willie S. of N.Z. Farmers Distrib. Co. September 25 Sat. Sawtell took Shirley and me to Palm. Nth. to have another look at Maxwell car. Had a good run round and car went fairly well. Shirley drove some distance, got on well. September 26 Sun. George and I went to Church and brought Shirley back with us. September 27 Mon. Dora Law very seriously ill. September 29 Wed. Heavy thunderstorm in the afternoon. October 1 Fri.


Went to the State Farm evening tm euchre party by Social Club. Shirley and I drove down with Clifford. October 5 Tues. Levin sale. Stcok rather dull. Atkin sold 16 - 4 year old bullocks at 12 pounds ten shillings. Tea with ShirIey. School Committee and choir in evening. October 6 Wed. Drove to Te Horo in car with SawtelI with male choir. At Manakau car jibbed - had a lot of trouble - benzine pipe broke had to fix up a piece of tubing in its places Arrived at Te Horo three quarters of an hour late. Back at midnight after a hard struggle. October 7 Thurs In afternoon Sawtel brought Maxwell up and Auntie and I went to meet him, also picked up Shirley and Jack in Levin. I commenced to drive the car at the top of Queen street - got gn alright as far as Levin. Afterwards I drove up through the reserve to Koputuroa store where I got stuck on the hill. However, I made another start and made marvellous save in passing a flax wagon on a nasty corner. Drove from Koputuroa store home again in good style. Have acquired a little confidence. ln evening dance at Nikau Ass. presentation to Miss Cork. Shirley and I went with Clifford. October 8 Fri Evening Gecrge and I went to school social in town hall. Shirley and I went to Mrs Rockel's house while they went to social. October 10 Sun. Auntie and boys want to church. I cooked dinner. I went to tea at Beckett's with Shirley and took them to church. October 12 Tues. Had afternoon tea with Shirley, then fixed up with SawtelI for the car - 240 pounds cash. In evening Sawtell drove the Maxwell to Shannon taking Shirley and me and some of male choir. Home in good time. The Maxwell behaved very well and retrieved her reputation. Insured the car for 200 pounds today. October 13 Wed. Becher brought his sucessr Mr Port and introduced him to me. He is quite a young fellow. October 14 Thurs Went over to Bechers clearing sale, lots of buyers and big prices. Cows bought up to 43 pounds, bull 77gns, yearling heifers - 17 pounds, hoggets 26/4, drill 44/1/-. Went to see Shirley in evening. October 16 Sat. Auntie went to town. Shirley and I went to pictures on the invitation of Ken Biss and Miss Tully. Howver, Miss T. not very well so could not go. October 17 Sun. Auntie and boys went to church. C of E in evening with Shirley. October 18 Mon. Auntie using horse in the afternoon. Took Mrs Becher to her new house. October 19 Tues. Had tea with Shirley. Male choir and supper at Mrs MacKenzie's. October 20 Wed. Billy Wilson came up to stay. October 21 Thurs Went with Billy Wilson to Look at some property belonging to Bes & Park, part of McDonald Estate. Place looked well after the rain, we were rather favourable impressed. Price asked is 25 pounds an acre. October 22 Fri. Went to Levin in evening on Dolly. Shirley and I walked home, arriving about 10 pm. October 23 Sat. Finished ploughing 5 and a half acres. Shirley rendered great assistance by driving the horses while I guided the plough. October 24 Sun.


Shirley cookedt breakfast while Auntie rested. Had picnic lunch under pine trees on Hodge's boundary. Auntie rode Dolly. When we came back Mrs Dr Gow arrived with the children and stayed to tea. Later Mr and Mrs Port and their son came over for an hour or two. October 25 Mon. Labour Day. Wet. Shirley cooked bread and scones very successfully. Shirley and I walked round in the evening in rain. October 26 Tues. Shirley went back to school this morning. October 27 Wed. Dora making very slow progress. October 28 Thurs Shirley and I went to see Mr and Mrs Rockel. October 29 Fri. Sledged down some totora piles for motor shed. October 31 Sun. Went to church with Shirley in the evening. Nov. 2 Tues School committee in evening, afterwards taking Shirley home from Mrs Rockel's - very wet night and I got pretty wet.


Nov. 3 Wed. County roadman put two lorry loads of metal at front gate and the motor man also brought up another load for me (privately). Nov. 4 Thurs


Final dance of Nikau Assemblies. Shirley and I went. Plain and fancy dress. Good turn out. Nov. 7 Sun.


Auntie and boys went to church. I cooked. Shirley came back with them and stayed the night. Young Port over to dinner. Nov. 13 Sat.


Went to pictures with Shirley, Beryl ard Ken Biss. Nov. 15 Mon.


Williams, a shearer turned up and asked for a job, but wanted 32/6 and found that I declined offering 30/-. Spent evening at Mrs D S MacKenzie who went to see the "Diggers" while Shirley and I minded the house. Nov. 18 Thurs


YMCA gymnasium display in evening. Good house, fair show. Shirley and l went. Male choir sang. Nov. 20 Sat.


Wet day. The boys and I worked all day in the front. Moved the front gate down the drive, also the front fence. We all got pretty wet. Town in the evening and engaged Maori named Timu to come and shear and to bring Williams as mate. 35/- and fund himself. Nov. 29 Mon.


Went to Wellington by Nepier Mail. Mr Alec Sutherland of Featherston also at Fern Hill. Nov. 30 Tues.


Will, Sutherland I spent whole day at WelIington College as it was Old Boys Day. Good turn out, saw a lot of old faces. In evening we all went to the Town Hall to farewell to Mr J.P. Firth. Hall crowded and we gave J.P. a great reception. Speeches by Walter Bethune, J.P. Luke, W.F. Ward, Sir F.D.Bell and Mr Allpass. Reply by the boss and Mrs Firth who was presented with a large painting of the boss. Excellent musical programme. Dec. 1 Wed.


Round town most of the day. Measured for a suit at Wallace and Gibsons. Took Edith down town. Dinner with W.H.D. and Mr Sutherland. Home by Auckland Express. Shirley and Helen met me so took them home. Dec. 2 Thurs


Willie and l put in the whole day at the motorshed, filling up the floor and making the place ready for the car which is ready to come home. Dec. 3 Fri.


ln evening went canvassing along Gladstone Rd. for contributions to the shop day for the school. No refusals. Dec. 4 Sat.


Went out in car to have lessons in driving with Sawtell. Shirley went to Palmerston North and we met her at the New Plymouth mail and brought her home. Did fairly well driving, practising starting and changing gears. Dec. 5 Sun.


Auntie and boys went to church while Shirley and I cooked dinner. Afternoon Cliff came over and we all went for a drive in car as far as Manakau. Car jumping a bit but we did fairly well. Called at Cheslyn Rise on our way home to see Dora. Cliff came home with us to put the car in the shed. Shirley and I also had a try with only fair success.


Dec. 7 Tues. Went to Levin sale, pretty slack. Stayed in town and went to tea with Shirley. School Committee meeting in evening. Shirley’s resignation accepted with regret. Dec. 11 Sat. Sawtell gave me another lesson in the car, went out to Porotawhao and back. Had some practise at the shed and did no damage. Put down some extra flooring. Shirley up for weekend. Dec. 12 Sun. Shirley and the children and I drove to C of E, managed all right. Dec. 13 Mon. Took Shirley to Mrs Percy’s where she spent the evening with Mr and Mrs Vickers, Ken Bliss and the Tully’s and Helen also there. Congratulatory speeches etc. Dec. 15 Thurs School broke up today. George was presented with Gold Medal for being Dux of the School. Shirley received a presentation from the teaching staff. I went down to see her at Mrs Vickers in evening. Dec. 17 Fri. Up early. George drove me to Vickers’ where we picked up Shirley and then on to the station. Went to Wellington by 8.45 train. Took Shirley to dinner at Kirkaldies, afterwards was fitted for the suit. Made several purchases, also took out boat tickets for Lyttleton for 21st January. Edith and Kate away so Shirley cooked light tea for Will, Percy and me. Took Shirley to the ferry boat 7.30 and saw her aboard. Afterwards Will, Percy and I went to Opera House to see “The Man From Toronto.” Very ordinary. Dec. 18 Sat. Came home by Napier Mail. Norman Vickers met me with car and wanted me to go up river where Denton and Vickers were picnicking. I decided to go home and go on with harrowing. Endi arrived home yesterday from school. Won a prize for music, also a medal for life saving. Looking bright and bonny. Dec. 19 Sun. I took children to Methodist church per car. In afternoon we drove to Cheslyn Rise and I went to Levin with Mr Adkin to funeral of Mr B.R. Gardiner. Very big crowd at church and graveside. Dec. 21 Tues. I went to school committee meeting to look at proposed asphalting of school yard. Dec. 22 Wed. My birthday today – children gave me presents. Also wires from Shirley and Frank. Dec. 23 Thurs In afternoon drove in dray to Levin and picked up Shirley’s boxes from Mrs Gattins place. Auntie went shopping in Palmerston Nth. She went with Willie Stewart. George mowed front lawns, made a good job of it. Dec. 24 Fri. Cleared all round house. Killed lamb for Christmas. Took family to town to see the shops. Big crowd out. Farewell to Cyril Day at Club. Went there for a little while - sang two songs. Front tyre blowout on way home - put on spare wheel. Home 11 pm, tired out. Dec. 25 Sat. Christmas Day. Up late. In afternoon we all motored down to Ohau to see Tom Powles. Had tea there, arrived home at 7.30 pm. Dec. 26 Sun. Fine. Up late. Drove to the cemetery an evening Afterwards went to Church of England. Carol singing. Dec. 27 Mon. Rain in morning, beautiful day later. Mr and Mrs Port and family joined us in a picnic up the river. Keedwell and family and Captain and Mrs Harvey, Matheson and family also joined us. Enjoyable day. Home early. Dec. 29 Wed.


The boys and I put in the morning picking up stones for Mr Adkin in his ploughed paddock. Used black mare. Billy Wilson and family turned up in afternoon, having come over to Levin to take over their farm. Their house not being ready and they spent the night here. Dec. 30 Thurs Beautiful day. Enid. Auntie and I went over to Cheslyn Rise to be present at Marjory's wedding – she was married to George Broomfield. Everything went off very nicely and they left by Napier Mail. Later on George and Jack came over and we all stayed there for the rest of the day. I took Edith, Kate, Agnes and Amy and Ivy for a ride in the car to Levin in the afternoon. Dec. 31 Fri. Fine after drizzly rain in morn. Enid and George went to Hokio riding with the Vickers boys and Tui Dyer. Auntie and I did some gardening in morn. Afternoon Jack and I put up netting across the rape paddock.

Jan. 2 Mon. Gerald Beckett up in afternoon. Children returned from beach. Jan. 4 Wed. Mrs and Miss Hitchcock and family up for afternoon. We drove them home in evening. Jan. 6 Fri. Mr and Mrs C. Collins and family (3) arrived from Wellington to spend weekend with us. Old friend of Shirley's from Geraldine. Swimming (banked up swimming hole day before) and musical evening. Jan. 7 Sat. Took visitors for motor drive in afternoon to Experimental Farm. Jan. 8 Sun. In afternoon took visitors in phaeton up Gladstone Rd. far as tanks. Jan. 9 Mon. Shirley took visitors to Hokio beach. Musical evening. Jan. 10 Tues. Shirley took visitors to train for Wellington. Jan. 13 Fri. Put in culvert in front drive. Jan. 14 Sat. Helen B. up for weekend. Jan. 15 Sun. Will, Edith and Kate staying at Cheslyn Rise. Will walked over in evening. Jan. 16 Mon. Helped with the hay for Poad. George did raking. Jan. 18 Wed. Helping Poad again with oats, etc, heavy stuff. Fairly knocked out at 6 pm. Went to bed as soon as I came home. Will walked over to see me and sat in bedroom to talk to me. George went to Horowhenua Show. (First Day) Jan. 19 Thurs All went to Show. Good crowd of people. Lunch with Mrs Vickers. Jan. 21 Sat. Finished mowing my hay. Went to town in afternoon. Steering gear of car not working too well - I had an accident in endeavouring to turn in town. Damaged front wheel. Young Franklin drove up with us to Willie Stewarts and took car back. Jan. 22 Sun. Commenced carting hay early alter dinner. Percy and Bert Port, Poad, Clifford Adkin came to help. Took in ten good loads. Jan. 26 Thurs Took oak table to station to send to Wellington to Collie's to be repaired. Jan. 28 Sat. Showery and windy. Filled up floor of carshed. Mixed some asphalt. Jan. 29 Sun. Children drove phaeton to church. Had a good spell. Jan. 30 Mon. Spent most of the day helping Percy Prouse stack oats. After coming home George and I put top to haystack. Feb. 1 Wed. Shirley and Enid drove to Levin for the day. Boys and I took out stump on lawn. Feb. 2 Thurs We all spent the day up the Ohau with the Stewart family. George drove Tommy in the dray taking the children with him. Willie called for us in car. Had lunch at pipe bridge. Afterwards came back to Caske's and collected about 8 sacks of fine sand for asphalting. Wheels on cart very shakey and tires loose. Feb. 3 Fri. Cleaned kitchen chimney. Family spring cleaning. Afternoon we commenced to put coat of tar on asphalt. Did back yard and front path. Feb. 4 Sat. Finished asphalting in morning. Shirley finished painting furniture in spare room. Went to town in afternoon and brought home car after being repaired. Feb. 5 Sun. W.M. Beckett walked up in morning and stayed all day. We drove to town in evening. Enid, George and I went to church. Shirley and Jack waited at Mary's. Feb. 7 Tues. Took George to station on his return to Wellington College. Polly Beckett who arrived in Levin on Monday came back with us to stay. Feb. 8 Wed. Methodist garden party at Adkins in afternoon. Went down with Willie Stewart to vote for members of Power Bd. Feb. 12 Sun. Went to town in evening - left Shirley at Becketts, Enid Polly and I went to C. of E. Polly stayed in town. Feb. 15 Wed. Started to thatch stack with raupo. Yarded lambs for Vickers - took 71 lambs at 1 pound including Shirley's pet "Billy". Feb. 16 Thurs Took Percy Port's dray to Levin and brought home table which was returned from Collie's. Afternoon Mr and Mrs Hobson and family came to see us. Feb. 17 Fri. Picture benefit for school picnic - big crowd but rotten pictures. Shirley stayed with Mrs MacKenzie while Enid, Polly, Jack, and I went. Feb. 19 Sun. Went to church in evening. Shirley stayed at Stewart's. Feb. 21 Tues. Reunion of Male Choir in evening at Century Hall. Feb. 22 Wed. All in town for school swimming sports - most successful. Took 12 pound at gate and 4 pound at afternoon tea. Big crowd of spectators. I acted as starter - races went off fairly well. Feb. 23 Thurs Craddack sent up 200 lambs for dipping. I prepared everything for them and left them to do the Job. Feb. 24 Fri. Shirley not very well so did not go far from home. In evening drove Shirley to town, it was decided she should stay in hospital Feb. 25 Sat. Did not go far from home, expecting news of Shirley. We all went down in evening, found Shirley still walking around, not very comfortable. Weather very sultry, heavy showers later. Feb. 26 Sun. After dinner we all went to town – called at hospital and found that Shirley had given birth to a little daughter about 1 pm. – had a very hard time for about 3 and a half hours and was looking very weary when I saw her at 2.30. Fine baby girl weighing 8 and a half pounds. Went down again in evening. I stayed Shirley, others went to C. of E. Harvest Festival. Feb. 27 Mon. Hospital in evening. Found Shirley looking much brighter, more cheerful. Baby doing well. Feb. 29 Tues. Had a bad accident with my “Vaga” separator. When the machine was running down the spindle suddenly jammed causing the whole affair to explode and fly to pieces – examined the machine and found it badly damaged. Rang Booth MacDonald P.N. and advised them I was sending it to them for repairs. Went into town in evening to see Shirley. We carried her into front room. March. 1 Wed. Enid,Holly, Jack and I went to Plimmerton with school picnic. Picked up Willie Stewart and family. Big crowd on train, 1050 all told. I put in a lot of time on the ginger pop. Had most enjoyable bathe and afternoon. W.S. Matheson, S. MacKenzie, Hobson and self. Reached Levin just after 7. Heavy rain, did not milk. March. 4 Sat. All went to town. Girls visited Shirley, and I went to Farmers Union. Afterwards took W.S. to see Dick Harris who is sick. Went to see Shirley – looking better but rather pale. Baby doing well. March. 5 Sun. After seeing Shirley we went on to see Dr. and Mrs Gow. Spent an enjoyable hour looking around his shrubbery. Spent evening with Shirley. Enid, Polly and Jack went to C. of E. March. 7 Tues. After sale had tea with W.M. Becketts, then school committee in evening. Discussion on Bible in schools. Referendum. Motion by Dr Gow to submit issue of referendum to parents –carried 5-2. Ayes Grove, Vickers, Gow, Boud, Denton. Noes Roe, Hobson. March. 8 Wed. Adkin over to see me regarding yearly statement of estate. March. 11 Sat. Polly and I went down in car to bring Shirley and baby home. Both of them looking very well but glad to be away from hospital. Everyone much interested in Lois and very complimentary. Cut John’s hair. March. 14 Tues. Went to MacKenzies and had a tooth stopped. Bible in schools causing some talk in town. March. 15 Wed. Intended to go to top of Waiopehu with party but weather not suitable. March. 17 Fri. Took 21 lambs (marked by Billy Vickers day before at 17/6) to Arapaepae Corner where I handed them over to Walter Ryder. Turton arrived with big mob of sheep for dipping tomorrow. March. 18 Sat. Turton and man arrived to dip sheep. I prepared everything for them and everything worked well. Later I drove family to town. Shirley went to see Mrs Dr Bryson re her sore breast – carelessness of hospital nurses. March. 19 Sun. Polly, Jack and I went to church in the morning. Afternoon Willie Stewart and family drove over to see us. March. 23 Thurs Filling up hole in crossing with boulders from creek. Hossack arrived, took away 17 bales of wool. Had to make two trips to the gate. March. 25 Sat. Mrs W.M. Beckett and Miss Hitchcock up for afternoon. Lights on car refused to act so could not take them home. Engaged Bradley. March. 26 Sun. John went to church with Willie Stewart. Had visit from Mr Adkin, Clare, Viv, and Mrs Gilbert and baby. April. 2 Sun. Polly stayed at home while the rest of us went to church. Drove to see Mr and Mrs Stewart in evening. April. 3 Mon. Gorringe, Geange and Dyer brought 528 sheep and dipped them. I dug strip of garden on back drive for Shirley. Also fixed up plots on lawn. April. 4 Tues. Went to funeral of Mr T.M. Clark – military funeral by returned soldiers. April. 5 Wed. Ladies went to Mrs Vickers. April. 7 Fri. Leslie Adkin over to tea and evening. Showed us good photos of Mangahao. April. 8 Sat.


In afternoon we all went to Levin to have children christened. Both Lois and Jack christened by Rev. W.F. Grove. Mr and Mrs Stewart and family, Miss Bowles, Mrs Vickers were also there. Godparents were – for Lois – Polly and Winnie Backett, and Noel Beckett. For Jack – Miss Bowles, R.S. Denton W.H. Wilson. April. 9 Sun. We all drove down to Papatonga Ohau in car – very pleasant. Mr and Mrs Hammond Murray came down to see us in afternoon. April. 10 Mon. Jack Horn arrived to dip his 367 sheep. Will Beckett and Gerald walked up to see us, stayed for afternoon. I took Polly down to Maori Entertainment for lake Queen. Crummy show. April. 11 Tues. In evening all went to Anglican church – confirmation service held by Bishop of Wellington – Enid was one of the candidates. Very nice service. Afterwards Mr Grove invited us, the Vickers, Kebbells and Miss Bowles to supper at Vicarage. Met the Bishop. April. 16 Sun. All went to C. of E. Easter Sunday. Enid, Shirley and Polly attended communion, Enid for first time. April. 17 Mon. Easter Monday. Final of Mardi Gras – very good procession. Later we went to the beach. Stewarts with us. Stayed at Vickers cottage. Adkins and Sawtells also there. April. 22 Sat. Shirley, Polly and Enid went to opening of golf. April. 23 Sun. All went to C. of E. Johnny looked after Lois in car. Afternoon Mrs Vickers, Mrs Stansell and Norman V. were up. April. 24 Mon. Householders meeting in evening. Took Shirley and Willie Stewart down. Poor meeting. No election, only 9 candidates nominated. Seven old members elected, Gardiner and Wilson added, Mr Grove and Short did not stand. April. 25 Tues. Anzac Day – went to service in Domain – good crowd. April. 26 Wed. Heard yesterday of death by drowning of Charlie Allen late teller of B.N.Z. Levin. Played football with him 20 years ago. April. 27 Thurs Went to clearing sale of T.P. James and Son at Dalgety yards. Sheep in excellent condition and bought good prices. April. 28 Fri. Went to Wellington by Napier Mail. Met Laurie and travelled with him. Went to Fern Hill, nobody there, so went to Rob’s and had tea. Afterwards Will and W.G. turned up, had an informal chat about estate affairs. Percy not there. Adkin staying at Arcadia, Laurie at Rob’s, I at Percy’s. Aica and Perc and I talked till 2.40 am. April. 29 Sat. In morning George and I did some shopping for Shirley. After dinner we all congregated at Fern Hill. Percy and I first called to see Mr Heinmanze re offering Fern Hill to the Jewish Community – meeting resolved to give them first chance at the property. Meeting did not break till 11 pm. April. 30 Sun. Beautiful day. Percy and children and I walked round bay in sunshine. Will and Laurie round to dinner. Will, Percy and I walked up to hill top in afternoon. Taranaki Street Church in evening. All boys there. Rest of evening all of us at Allenville. May. 1 Mon. Returned home by Napier Mail – Shirley met us. May. 2 Tues. Enid drove to Levin to assist at Horticultural Show – put in several entries but did score. Took Polly to Flower Show. May. 5 Fri. Just after milking heard two dogs among the old ewes on the low hill, sheep being driven down to woolshed. Quickly got the gun and went after them. Had a shot at one dog, only wounded on leg. Followed them home and found they belonged to Ron Hodge who was milking. He had sent them after the cows but must have come into my place after sheep. I warned him against the recurrence of the affair and came back. A lot of wool about and other evidence of worrying stock. May. 6 Sat. Shirley went to golf. May. 7 Sun. Went to Church of E. in evening, leaving Lois with Mrs Stewart. May. 9 Tues. Went to sale. Afternoon tea at Hitchcocks. Male choir concert in evening – fair audience. Choir performed well – we all went, leaving Lois with Mrs Stewart. May. 10 Wed. Mrs and Beryl Tully visited Shirley. May. 12 Fri. Took Polly down to catch Napier Mail on way to Rotorua. May. 13 Sat. George, jack and I went down to Lake to help at working bee. Carting metal to fill up round boat shed – successful day. May. 14 Sun. Drove to Levin to bring Miss Bowles home to dinner and tea. May. 15 Mon. Cut and carted three loads of firewood. Played bridge with children in evening. May. 14 Tues. Went to station to pick up pup, about 3 months old, sent from Wanganui by Frank. May. 20 Sat. Shopping in Levin, then met Wanganui Express for Edith. May. 24 Wed. Working bee at school, putting up seats for children to sit on during lunchtime. Dinner at Becketts. Drove W.H. and Mary and Mrs Watson down to Lake where I shoveled metal for rest of day. May. 25 Thurs George tried his hand at crutching, did fairly well. Shirley and Edith for train to Wellington. May. 26 Fri. Mrs Cyril Bartholomew and Miss Brown up here for rest of day. George and Enid went to tea and the evening at Mrs Percy’s and took visitors home. May. 27 Sat. Farmers Union meeting in afternoon, afterwards went to football. May. 28 Sun. Drove down to Fletcher’s to see Mrs Fletcher Snr. Re Enid’s music. May. 29 Mon. Cut macrocarpa hedge on eastern side. May. 30 Tues. Went to funeral of Mrs Eyes. Mr C. Bell killed by being thrown from a horse also buried today. May. 31 Wed. Enid commenced music with Mrs Fletcher. June. 1 Thurs Eric Percy up for day with George. June. 2 Fri. P.N.Denton came up by night train from Wellington. Enid and I went down to meet him. June. 5 Mon. All went to town and took Percy and George to station to catch train to Wellington. George returned to school. June. 10 Sat. W.G. Vickers and I spent morning canvassing for R.S.A. carnival. Fair success. Dinner at Vickers. Football in afternoon. June. 11 Sun. In afternoon drove to Becketts where we stayed to tea. Went to C. of E. Car went wrong. Looked up Sawtell who drove us home in Kilsby's car. Sacred concert for civilian blind. June. 14 Wed. Anticipated going to Palmerston Nth to N.Z.M.R. annual reunion but trip could not be arranged. June. 17 Sat. Went to football. Later went to see Dr Gow re insurance. He examined me, said I was alright. Am taking out a policy for 500 pounds. Had talk about carnival so did not get home till 8 pm. June. 20 Tues. Went to Levin sale - most of my time spent selling art union tickets in connection with R.S.A. carnival. Sold over 4 pounds worth. Tea at R.R. Harris's and male choir. Palmerston Nth Winter Show. June. 21 Wed. Took Shirley and baby over to Stewart's. L.G.Adkin in evening. June. 23 Fri. Meeting of R.S.A. in evening. First community sing. June. 24 Sat. We all drove to Levin in phaeton. I went to football match when Horowhenua reps defeated P.N. by 11-9. Very good fast open game. June. 25 Sun. Billy Wilson and children drove up in afternoon and stayed to tea. June. 27 Tues. Trimming hedges. Saw McIntyre re P. and J. show. Male choir, farewell supper to F.T.Clare. June. 28 Wed. Evening Levin old pupils reunion and farewell to Mr & Mrs J. McIntyre - we all went down with Clare Adkin who called for us in car. Took Lois to Mrs MacKenzie's. Big crowd, excellent turn out. Presentation to Mac of illuminated address and purse of souvenirs also a suitcase to Mrs Mac. Very enjoyable evening. July. 2 Sun. Enid and Jack went to church. Will Beckett and Maurice walked up in morning and stayed all day. Shirley and I drove them home in evening. July. 3 Mon. In afternoon collected sheep from various neighbours on Gladstone Rd. for R.S.A. sale tomorrow. R.S.A. carnival opened at Cosmos Theatre tonight. July. 4 Tues. Took 10 miscellaneous sheep and 1 cow to yards to sell on behalf of Levin School Committee's contribution to R.S.A. carnival. Successful sale, sold a lot of art union tickets. Tea at W.H.Wilson's. School Committee in evening R.S.A. carnival afterwards, Gladstone Rd. team beat Koputuroa in tug-o-war. July. 6 Thurs Loaned Poad's dray and drove round collecting gifts from Gladstone and Arapaepae Roads on behalf of R.S.A. Levin East did very well there being a lot of produce. Sold over three books of art union tickets. Shirley and Enid drove car to meet Rob on train from Wellington. They all went to the carnival, taking Willie S. and Percy Port with them. July. 7 Fri. Rob and I went to town and fixed up Punch and Judy show at St. Mary's school room. Had nearly 100 women and children at 6d and 3d each. Youngsters delighted. Drove home, then returned to Father and Son banquet (YMCA) in Century Hall. Very big turn out. Took Johnny and Rob. Speeches by General Russell and Hughes. All went to carnival afterwards. July. 8 Sat. Rob and I went to town and held Punch and Judy show. Gross takings 3/2/6 expenses 2/6 for hire of room. Enid and I went to carnival in evening - big crowd, lots of business. Very late finishing. July. 9 Sun. Enid, Rob and Jack went to church. First time Enid in sole charge of car. Rob and Jack stayed in town till evening. In afternoon Ken Biss and Miss B. Tully visited us. July. 11 Tues. Paid into F.Plaster 13/-/- for art union tickets on nugget also 15/- donations. July. 13 Thurs. Shirley and Enid drove to Tully's in car. Evening Robert, Clare, W.G. and I went to lecture by F. W. Vossller on Mountaineering. Poor audience but interesting lecture. July. 14 Fri. Took 4 spring heifers over to Thompson's Farm Gladstone Rd where clearing sale being held. Satisfactory sale 8/15/-, 8/-/-, 6/15/-. July. 16 Sun. Shirley, Jack and I went to church. Enid is rather seedy. July. 18 Tues. Wrote to Commissioner of Taxes re land returns and exemptions. Late sending returns. July. 20 Thurs. Meeting R.S.A. in evening. Results of school competition for R.S.A. - Koputuroa 113 pounds, first, Ohau 91 pounds second, Manakau 81 pounds third and Levin 192 pounds - divided by 3 - 64 pounds. Levin East took 90 pounds odd, Levin West BO pounds and Wereroa 10 pounds. July. 22 Sat. Shirley drove with Maxwell to Ohau to farewell party for Mrs MacIntyre. July. 25 Tues. Distrib. Co. closing branch so bought a lot of groceries for cash. July. 26 Wed. Shirley and I went to dance at St. Mary's Hall, last of Nikau Assemblies. Enid and Doris Wilson looked after our house. July. 28 Fri. Evening farewell to Mr. Mrs. MacIntyre. We all went down taking Willie Stewart with us. Big crowd there. Enid and I sang a duet "Tell her I love her so" and did well. Everyone congratulated Enid in the success of her first appearance. I also sang a male quartet July. 29 Sat. Shirley and Enid went to train to see Mari and Dulcie Denton. July. 30 Sun. Afternoon visitors, Mrs and Miss Hitchcock, Mr and Mrs Kibblewhite and Mr and Mrs Marsh. July.3 1 Mon. Mr Percy up to fix up electoral roll for us. Through error we were put on Manawatu, whereas we are still in Otaki district. Aug. 1 Tues. Went to sale. Stayed to tea at Mary's. Went to school committee and afterwards to male choir. Aug. 2 Wed. Shirley and Enid went to wedding at Mrs Clark's where Edna C was married to Hugh Campbell. Big turnout. Aug. 5 Sat. Johnny and I drafted out a few of the ewes and lambs from low hill to low terrace. Aug. 6 Sun. Enid and John went to church and brought Willie and Mary and Maurice home to dinner. W.H.Wilson and Amy came home in afternoon. August. 11 Fri. Harris came to spray fruit trees for scale. Aug. 12 Sat. Harris up finishing pruning. Sold him a rata log at 5/10? Cord royalty, to be removed inside two months. Aug. 13 Sun. Went to W.M.Beckett's in afternoon and met Shirley's cousin Mr and Mrs Ray Jones Just arrived from Home. Aug. 18 Fri. Evening concert by Anglican Juvenile performers - great success. Left Lois at Beckett's. We took Mary and Mrs Jones with us. Enid sang several solos and performed well. All youngsters performed to packed house. Great credit to Mr and Mrs W.F. Grove. August. 23 Wed. Evening at Adkins. Farewell to Mr and Mrs Gilbert. Won Limerick. August. 24 Thurs. Went to clearing sale of M.J.Prendiville,Gladstone Rd. August. 25 Fri. Male choir concert. Good audience. Farewell to S.J.Gilbert. I was worked into an item "Abe Abe" in costume, together with Howard Andrew and Hunter. Encored. Family could not pick me up. George arrived from Wellington by 7.45 pm. train. Aug. 26 Sat. Went to Levin to see Enid off to Wellington by Napier Mail, also to meet Owen Denton from Hastings. Aug. 27 Sun. Shirley and I went with Mr and Mrs Stewart to Paekakariki in their car. Most enjoyable run. Dinner with Miss Stewart who has Willie's children staying with her. George, Jack and Owen stayed at home. Aug. 28 Mon. Mustered old ewes from terrace and docked lambs. Good lambs. 79 lambs from 77 ewes. George held lambs. Jack and Owen caught. August. 29 Tues. Went to Jack Bartholemews to have tooth stopped (gold). Sept. 5 Tues. Enid returned from Wellington. Sept. 6 Wed. Mr and Mrs Grove and family came for tea and the evening. Had some difficulty with separator when cotter pin in handle spindle broke - Rev. Grove eventually removed the broken piece. Too late to separate that night so left it till morning. Sept. 7 Thurs. Used part of 4" nail as a rivet to fix separator. Decided to take family to beach in car. Spent day with Mr and Mrs Vickers at the cottage. Had a most enjoyable day. Sept. 9 Sat.


Made crossing O'Donnell paddock. Dug drain. Boys carted out pipes. Owen returned to Hastings. Sept. 10 Sun. All of us went to church, both morning and evening. Mr Grove's last Sunday before leaving for England. Crowded congregations. Miss Bowles spent day with us. Sept. 11 Mon. George and I mustered hoggets from back hill. Sept. 13 Wed. Eric Percy up for the day. He and George rode round ewes. Played crib in evening. Sept. 17 Sun. Drove over to Adkins in afternoon. Saw Cliff's new shed and milking machine in action. Sept. 18 Mon. Brought home load of firewood. George helped me with the new saw which went alright. News came that there is some trouble with Turkey and the Dardanelles. Dominion troops are being offered to defend Straits. George returned to College after his holiday. Sept. 19 Tues. After going to sale, I went to meeting of Farmers' Union addressed by Mr Buxton - good speaker. Sept. 21 Thurs. At sundown there was a partial eclipse of the sun. All went up on the low hill to view it. Willie Stewart and family and Clare also came. Evening - Shirley and I went to Golf Ball. Very good turnout. Splendid jazz band from Palmerston Nth. September. 26 Tues. Mr and Mrs Ray Jones (Shirley's cousin) came up to stay. Sept. 27 Wed. Evening meeting of R.S.A. re disposal of carnival funds110 - 575 pounds. Motion of no confidence in committee easily defeated. Shirley drove down with me and stayed with Mrs 0.9. McKenzie. Sept. 28 Thurs. Ray and I spent some time on new fence putting in posts. Oct. 1 Sun. In morning we all walked up to top of hill, Miss Hitchcock, Ray and Dorrie, Shirley and I. Beautiful morning and fine view. Took Miss H. home in evening.

Oct. 2 Mon.

Evening I went to complimentary banquet to W.H.Field M.P. Big turnout. W.F.Massey and 14 M.P.'s up from Wgtn, about 150 there. I sang "The Skipper". Oct. 3 Tues. Went down in morning to Levin D.H.S. where Mr Massey unfurled a N.Z. flag to commemorate the Great War. Oct. 8 Sun. After dinner we drove in phaeton up Gladstone Rd as far as the pipe bridge, taking Ray and Dorrie. Oct. 13 Fri. Doris Beckett from Linton came to stay weekend. Enid and Jack went to town with Mr Stewart to school benefit pictures. Oct. 14 Sat. Shirley and Doris drove to town. Oct. 15 Sun. Percy Port to dinner. Billy Wilson drove up in afternoon. 17 Tues. Doris went home by 7.45 train. Drove down in phaeton. Oct. 19 Thurs. Shirley and Enid drove down in car to Levin. Sawtell put on two new tyres and recharged battery. S & E had lunch at Mrs Cyril Bartholomew's. Sam Harris cutting rata. Oct. 20 Fri. Evening we all went to see The Kid" Peoples Pictures. Left Lois at Stewarts. Took Mrs S. with us. Picture good. Oct. 21 Sat. Shirley and Enid went down to train to meet Polly and Noel. Oct. 22 Sun. At home all day. Afternoon - Mrs and Misses Bevan, Mrs "Barty" Mr and Mrs Stewart all over to see Polly and Noel. Oct. 23 Mon. Labour Day - athletic sports at Levin. Oct. 24 Tues. Mrs W.M. Beckett up for a few days. Oct. 26 Thurs. Evening Shirley, Enid and I went to Mrs Sawtell's for evening. Mary looked after house. Oct. 30 Mon. After dinner I sprained my ankle badly jumping over fence. Hobbled up paddock but ankle swelled up so quickly came home on sledge. Shirley and Enid doctored me up and I went to bed. Willie helped with milking, etc. Oct. 31 Tues. I stayed in bed all day. Foot much easier and swelling going down. Willie helped with milking. Nov. 1 Wed. In afternoon Dr Gow came to look at my foot. Found no bones broken but foot badly sprained. Have to lie up for a week or more. Violent thunderstorm in evening. Big rimu caught fire on the low hill. Nov. 2 Thurs. Heavy showers. Shirley rode round sheep and got wet through. Nov. 3 Fri.


Enid went to Palmerston Nth show with Adkin girls. Nov. 4 Sat. Willie and Shirley mustered ewes with black-faced lambs to yards and Vickers went through them - picked out 56 lambs at 25/- and 6 ewes at 24/-. Stewart family over to tea and evening when we had bonfire and crackers. Dr Gow and wife up in afternoon. Dr. strapped my ankle. Nov. 5 Sun. Guy Beckett up for dinner and evening. Nov. 6 Mon. Murray came up to work. Nov. 7 Tues. Willie and Shirley mustered old ewes and lambs for drafting fats out tomorrow. Nov. 8 Wed.


Willie over 4.30 yarded and drafted out fat lambs. Enid and Jack assisting. Walter Ryder came at 5.30 am and took delivery. Nov. 9 Thurs. Shirley and Enid went to call on Mrs Turton and I went in car with them. Enid went to social W. Coll. Nov. 13 Mon. Willie and Murray mustered hoggets. We drove to town in afternoon. I went to Dr Sow - he took off bandage - we are now to massage it. I am not to use my foot for another two weeks. Nov. 19 Sun. Stayed in bed all day. Billy Wilson came up in afternoon. Shirley and Enid went to communion at B am. Nov. 21 Tues. Finished shearing - shearers Whiley and Rolston. Guy Beckett came up for day and help in shed. Nov. 23 Thurs. Shirley commenced yesterday to supervise examinations at Levin D.H.S. Nov. 26 Sun. Enid and Jack went to Methodist church with Mr Stewart and stayed to dinner with Mrs S. I stayed in bed all day. Foot is improving. Nov. 28 Tues. Hossack came up and took away 17 bales of wool. Made two trips as weather so wet. Nov. 29 Wed. In evening Shirley and I took Mr and Mrs Aikman and W.S. to prohibition meeting when Mr Pussyfoot Johnson of America and Mr Kemp spoke. Big crowd. Dec. 1 Fri. Shirley's last day supervising exams. Dec. 2 Sat.


In afternoon Shirley, Enid and I went to town. S. and I went to see Dr Sow pronounced ankle getting satisfactorily - am now putting foot on ground. Dec. 3 Sun. Johnny went to Presbyterian Church with Stewarts. Dec. 7 Thurs. Election day. We all went to vote at Mrs J. Prouses's house, Otaki electorate. Took Mr and Mrs Aikman and Percy Port. Enid and I drove to town in afternoon. I went down to polling booth. Evening we all went to town to see results of polling. Took Mr and Mrs Aikman. Massey party - having a bad time. Several seats lost. Field just in. Harkness bottom. Linklater easily in. Labour gained about B seats. Prohibition defeated by 16,000 votes. Dec. 8 Fri.


Shirley, Enid, Lois and I drove to Palmerston Nth to shop. Took Mrs Tully and Beryl with us. Shirley drove both ways. Successful day. Wool sold Wellington. Ewes 134=', lambs. Dec. 9 Sat. Afternoon Shirley and I went to Levin A & P meeting. Also shopping. December. 11 Mon. Shirley spring cleaning kitchen. Dec. 13 Wed. Mowed lawns. Polly arrived from Auckland. Dec. 14 Thurs. George arrived home from College. He gained first prize for Maths and Science. Dec. 15 Fri. Cleaning up round house. George finished mowing lawn. Dec. 16 Sat. School shop day in aid of picnic fund. Collected sundry donations and took them to town. Successful day. Dec. 18 Mon. W.S. over and went on with harrowing. Had a mishap with the horses - Willie's young horse Prince bolted and grey mare and Tommy badly mixed up in the harrows. Tommy got his foot jammed and was thrown over and broke his leg. Had to kill him as he was in great pain. Shirley, Lois and Polly left for Wellington by B.45 train. Enid and I went to station with them. They spent day at Fern Hill, caught ferry Wahine for Lyttleton 7.45 pm. Dec. 19 Tues. Bad accident on Railway crossing. Mrs Narby killed and two daughters injured - Auckland Express. Dec. 22 Fri. Wool cheque arrived 238/19/8 nett. Dec. 23 Sat. Willie and I made an early start and finished sowing turnips. In evening all went to town to see shops. Very tired.


Dec. 24 Sun. All went to bed after breakfast, but we turned out to carol service in evening. Dec. 25 Mon. Church in morning. Took Mary and Gerald with us. Christmas dinner at Cheslyn Rise. All family there. Dec. 27 Wed. George rode to the beach. Dec. 29 Fri. Jack and I went to town in morning. Dec. 30 Sat. W.G.Vickers came and drafted out 62 fat lambs at 24/-. Lambs have done well. This leaves me with only 41 for rape. Afternoon we dammed up bathing hole, made a good job. Dec. 31 Sun. Went to church in evening. Called to see Auntie Bowles.

Jan. 1 Wed.

I took Nella & John Appleby to meet Napier Train when they went on to Dannevirke. I took Lois who has had a bad finger for some little while to Bill Donnelly's. I removed nail which was loose. Went to bowls in afternoon.

Jan. 2 Thurs.

Fine. Shirley, children & I started for trip to Waimate. Tea at Allenville. Good trip on boat Breakfast at Enids at ChCh. Roly, Dosh to see us at ChCh. Waimate 12.30. Stayed at Gran Becketts from 3rd - 1st Feb. Bad weather most of the time. Lois & Bill sick Had Dr. Wylie for Lois with swollen glands. Played bowls in evenings. Trips to country, Mr Creemer, Mr Rudden Klau, Stir & Jnr, also Mr Mackenzie. All very interesting. Shirley had very unfortunate accident on Tues. 28th Jan. when she fell down front steps at 'Ranton' and broken two bones near ankle of right leg. Dr Wylie set it Shirley laid up in front room at 'Ranton'. I left Waimate for home on Sat Feb 1st taking Lois and Anne, leaving Bill, Dick with Gran. Met Bert Whitcombe on station at Timaru. Roly and Anne Denton met us at ChCh and took us out to Sumner where we stayed till Tuesday afternoon. Enid spent three afternoons with us and she took us over the hospital and introduced me to nurses. Left ChCh on Tuesday night by "Wahine" and had good trip. Arrived Wgtn. 7 am. and went to Allenville for breakfast and lunch. Alice came home with us 4 pm. train. Mrs Smith kindly drove us home. Gladys had everything tidied up in good time. John away.

Feb. 8 Sat.

Afternoon Alice girls and I went to town. Took some lamb to Hugh Hossack and he gave us some potatoes and rhubarb. I went to bowls for a couple of hours. 25th anniversary of wedding of Alice and Percy so Percy and whole family arrived by 4 pm. train and put in weekend with us. Had a very hectic evening. Cliff & Tui, Val & Newell boys (2) came over. Feb. 9 Sun.

Fine and hot. We all went for a drive up river in morning. Had a bathe in 'black hole'. Loafed in afternoon and took them down to meet the evening train. Feb. 10 Mon. Evening went to choral "Bohemian Girl". Feb. 12 Wed. Took Alice Denton to catch 4 pm. train to Wgtn. Evening went to bridge at Mrs C. (I. Wilsons). Feb. 15 Sat. Wet in afternoon. Worked in garden in morning cleaning up rubbish. Took Gladys and two girls to town in afternoon. They went to pictures while I did shopping. Feb. 18 Tues. Evening went to comedy musical by Fuller's Company "Archie" very funny, enjoyed it. Feb. 19 Wed. Evening bridge at Mrs McAlleys. Feb. 21 Fri.

I cut firewood and John carted it. Went to town late afternoon. Sent plums to Fern Hill. Had game of bowls. Feb. 22 Sat . Fine. Worked around house - cleaning up. Afternoon I went to bowls and played in match against Otaki. Levin won 3 games out of 5, (108 to 94). Our rink Clements Snr, Denton, Casey & Hawke (skip) won by 29-14. Enjoyed game very much. Jacks in evening. Feb. 23 Sun. Cliff & Tui over for plums. Took girls with me to Hitchcocks and afterwards to Jacks for tea. Shirley went to Dunedin today with Evelyn for treatment (electrical) by Noel. Feb. 26 Wed. Bridge and dancing at Mrs McAlleys. Feb. 28 Fri.

Afternoon I went to town on business. Afterwards went to bowls and to tea at Mrs Smaills and to pictures (only fair). March. 1 Sat

Afternoon went to bowls. Match between Manawatu Centre (8 rinks) and Horowhenua (4 rinks Levin) 2 rinks each Shannon and Foxton. I played as emergency on long rink Cliff Denton and J. 0. Brown and Suban (skip) and we won game 25 - 10, Suban being in great form. Manawatu won 5 games out of 8 and by about 40 points. Very enjoyable game - bog crowd there. March. 2 Sun. Drove to town in afternoon and took Mamie and the 4 girls out for a run to Waiopehu Reserve and then back to tea. Home 7.30. George had young one here in evening and I had to send him off about midnight. March. 5 Wed. Harold McLeavey and I went to Palmerston Nth. to meeting of Executive. Arrangements to meet British Farmer Tourists who arrived about 5 pm. Had interesting talk with Mr Steele, a produce and fruit merchant from South End London. Home 7 pm. March. 6 Thurs. Went to town to get something for Shirley's birthday which is tomorrow. March. 7 Fri.

Shirley's birthday. March.8 Sat.

John went away for the day - up to Shannon with Val Pedersen. I went to bowls in afternoon and had enjoyable game. March. 9 Sun.

Beautiful day. At home in morning. Took Lois and Anne to see Auntie Kate at Clare Gardiners in afternoon. March. 12 Wed. John went to territorials for shooting. Evening I acted as starter for races by Levin Swimming Club. Lots of outside competitors. Afterwards cards at Mrs Thomspons. (Furniture) March. 13 Thurs. John and I commenced to repair paths and put on 'Colfix' - made fair progress from gate to house. Evening tea at Mrs Harold McLeaveys, Ray and Mrs Brown also there. Yarned all evening. March. 14 Fri. Carried on with tar sealing and filled up holes in yard and did side of paths and afterwards put coat over whole of yard. Guy Evans turned up re hillside sledge. I ordered one at 8 pounds for putting out manure. Guy here most of afternoon. Evening I took Mrs C.G. Wilson and sister-in-law to Maxwells to bridge. Mrs Sievers and Mrs Keedwell also there and Mrs Brown. Won 'booby' prize. Box of decorated matches. March. 15 Sat. Afternoon went to town. Two girls went to Mrs O'Connors to play with Marie and I did shopping. Went down to see Billy Jack and afterwards to tea at Mrs O'Connors. March. 16 Sun. End of daylight saving. March. 18 Tues. Letter from Shirley saying another two weeks treatment in Dunedin required. Foot mending well. March. 22 Sat. Went to town in afternoon to golf links to receive Rose Bowl which Shirley won last season. Afterwards went to bowls and then to Mrs SmallIls, Lois and Anne with me. March. 23 Sun. Fine. Went to Levin in afternoon. Took Mamie and Miss Ross and two neices and our two girls for a drive - Manakau, Buller Lake and Muhunoa East Tea at Mamies. March. 24 Mon. Cutting down trees east side of house and took top off hedge by dog kennels. March. 25 Tues. Fine, cleaning up round house. Had nasty accident whereby I cut my left hand very badly across palm with my pocket knife when cutting top off plum tree. Went to see Bill Donnelly who sent me to Dr. Hunter who put in four stitches. Pretty painful. Did not go to sale. March. 29 Sat. Fine, worked round house in morning and put metal on path. Afternoon John went to football. I went to bowls. Lois and Anne went to party at Mrs Whitaker& March. 30 Sun. Beautiful day. John went to Otaki Gorge - the girls and I went to Mrs Jacks to dinner and tea. Took Jack family for a run to Otaki Beach. April. 1 Tues. Had to go to town for medicine for Anne in evening so went to pictures. (Poor) April. 2 Wed. I went to funeral of F. 0. Smith who died on Monday. Finished up at Bowling Green. On reaching home found that Roly Denton was in Levin - he eventually came up bringing Mr Wilson, a friend and they stayed to tea and evening. Mr Wilson left 11 pm. Roly stayed all night. 3 Thurs. Fine. Roly and I walked round - moved old ewes. I drove him down to see Geange (late 27th NZMR) and who bought MO Broomfield's farm. Had a good look round then home to dinner and afterwards he caught the ferry boat to Lyttleton. April. 4 Fri. Fine, up at 6 am. and went in taxi to wharf to meet Shirley and two boys who came up from ChCh by last night's ferry boat. Miss D. Hitchcock also there and hepped Shirley who is still rather lame. Took Shirley and boys to "Fern Hill" and we afterwards caught Auckland Express home. Shirley and boys travelled on special permits issued by Rail Dept in lieu of excursion ticket which could not be used on account of her broken leg. April. 5 Sat. Spent whole day in Levin. Meeting of Manawatu Executive Farmer's Union and it lasted till 3 pm. Afterwards went down to Bowling Green for about an hour. Was again approached by delegates of F.U. to stand for President. April. 12 Sat.

Went to Levin in afternoon to bowling green and played in friendly game with Otaki and we won 19 - 13. Gladys left today. April. 15 Tues. I went to Levin sale. Rather slack Paid bills. Brought Mamie and Daisy Hitchcock and Miss Austin up to tea and evening. April. 16 Wed. Went to Palmerston North to play bowls against Northern Club. Four Levin rinks went and all were successful in winning I travelled up with Mr & Mrs Routley also Clements Snr and Jnr. Our rink consisted Clements Snr, Denton, Cameron and Suhan (Skip) and we won by 8 points. Home at 6.30 pm. Afterwards Shirley and I spent evening at Mrs Donnellys April. 17 Thurs. I went to Levin in afternoon to meet train from Wgtn. Trix staying with us for a week. April. 18 Fri. Good Friday. Afternoon Shirley took family for a drive to Otaki Beach while I played bowls. April. 19 Sat. Afternoon I took four children with me to bowling green and had an enjoyable afternoon. Evening Trix and John went to dance at Mackenzies and Shirley went to Maxwells. April. 20 Sun. Easter Sunday. Beautiful day. Up early. Shirley John and I went to 7 am communion. Took Mrs Fulton with us. After breakfast we drove to Raumati (Paraparaumu) and visited Hitchcocks who are staying there for a week Sea smooth. Children had a bathe. Home at dark. April. 21 Mon. Fine after rain at night Early lunch and went to sports meeting at Race-course run by A. & P. Assn. Good crowd there and successful day. Dance in evening. Shirley, Trix, John and I went. Brought Mrs Thompson home in evening to be domestic help. April. 23 Wed. Mrs Thompson found situation not suited to her so decided to leave. took her back to Mrs Mitchells and then went to bowls. Levin Rink (Routley, Clements, Cameron, Suhan) successfully defended Feathers against Shannon 17 - 16. Shirley Trix and John spent evening at Pedersens. April. 25 Fri. Anzac Day. Went to Anzac service in afternoon. Afterwards to bowling green for 1 and a half hours. Shirley and family and Mrs Vickers drove out to Norman's place for afternoon tea. April. 26 Sat.

Afternoon John went to football and I to bowls. Last day of season. April. 27 Sun. Took Trix to catch evening train to Wgtn. May. 1 Thurs. Mrs John went to Feilding to Young Farmers' Show. May. 3 Sat. Went to Palm. Nth. to Annual Meeting Prov. Exec. Re-elected Vice President O.P. Lynch re-elected President Went up with Harold McLeavey and his father and H.J. Richards. Back 2.30 pm. Went to football Wanderers 77 County 3. May. 5 Mon. Choral in evening. J.A. Smiths afterwards. May. 10 Sat. Afternoon Annual Meeting of the Levin Branch F. U. Attendance of 12 -15. Re-elected President and F.R. Wright Secretary. Interesting meeting. Threw out state lotteries and also unemployment relief. Afterwards went to football Otaki 9 Wanderers 6. Wanderers III 24 Foxton 8. John scored. May. 11 Sun. Shirley, John and I took family to church in morning. Mother's Day. Afternoon we visited Billie and Mrs Jack. May. 12 Mon. Evening I took our car and went to Feilding taking Bill, Jack, Foss, Ramsey and Jensen. Bill drove from Levin to Feilding in 1 hr. 20 mins. Good going. Visited Lodge Feilding the occasion being the raising of the Wattie Booth to his third degree. Alb. Kellow one of the officials. Wattie got through very well. Enjoyable evening. Left 11.35 Levin I am. May. 13 Tues. Evening played bridge at St. Marys - played with Hodder. Good fun. May. 21 Wed. Paid licence fee on car. Went to Wanganui with Harold and Molly McLeavey per car. Trouble at Foxton delayed us 2 hours. Later had puncture. Arrived Wanganui 2.45 pm. Went to football. British team v. Wanganui. Big crowd and good game. Visitors won 19 - 5 and should do better later on. Met Doc Heddetch with whom I am to stay. Harold drove us all down to Gonville Ave. where we all had afternoon tea. Afterwards Harold and Molly went back to Fosters where they are staying. Doc and family and I sat around fire and played bridge. May. 22 Thurs. Attended Inter-provincial F.U. conference at Jockey Club Rooms. Full attendance of members. C.C. Jackson, President Doc's to tea. Evening "Smoke-Oh" Had to respond to toast of visitors on behalf of Manawatu. Very cold night. May. 23 Fri.

Conference all day till 4 pm. Good address by President W.J. Poison. Remit on State Lotteries carried. I led opposition. Left for home 4.15 pm. Arrived Levin 6.15 pm. Puncture on the way. Shirley met me. Freda who was leaving us today decided to stay on. May. 25 Sun.
Went to Levin in afternoon as Shirley had to have her dentures adjusted. Brought Hodder back for tea with us and stayed all evening. 27 Tues. Shirley & I paid a visit to Mr & Mrs James McLeavey. May. 28 Wed. John went to Palm. Nth to see football British team v. Manawhenua. Weather cleared at dinner time and the match ended British 34 Manawhenua S. June. 3 Tues. Dull, but fine. Went to Wgtn. 8 am. train to see football match British v. Wgtn. Travelled with Harry Taylor and son up at ground at 12.15 and bank packed. Good seat behind Northern goal post Very hard game which Wgtn won 12 - 8. Very exciting. Home by "Feilds" 5.40 pm. till 10 pm. Very tedious. June. 7 Sat.

Afternoon I went to Levin to see Bill Donnelly re varicose vein and he gave me some dope and advised me to give leg a spell. Evening "Golddiggers on Broadway." Very good. June. 8 Sun. Afternoon Mr & Mrs Brewster called to see us and evening Harold and Molly McLeavey. June. 9 Mon. I stayed in bed practically all day to give my leg a spell. June. 11 Wed. Went to Palm. with Charlie Webb, also Prendeville, J. Bartholomew and Everton to attend Wgtn. Mounted Rifles Reunion, good crowd there. June.13 Fri.

Paper-hangers here to do dining room and passage. June. 18 Wed. Fine. John went to Palm. Nth show. I got up for a little while, moved sheep and then went back to bed. John returned from show looking bad so had to take him to chemist June. 19 Thurs. Put in all day round house. Paper hanger finished at dinner time. Putting things back in place, John in bed till afternoon. Took him to see Dr Hunter in evening. June.20 Fri. John still unable to work I moved stock, mended gate. June. 21 Sat.

Afternoon I went to Bill Jacks and listened to the football British team V. N.Z. Very close do which British won on the "call of time" 6 - 3. Shirley in bed with bad cold. June. 22 Sun. Shirley still in bed all day. Did not go out. June. 24 Tues. John still unable to work Went to Doctors in afternoon. Meeting of Parent's Assn. in evening. June. 25 Wed. R.S.A. smoke-oh in evening Good crowd. Gen. Young as guest Feild and Linldater and Blenkhorn also there. Successful turn out. June. 27 Fri. I went on visit of inspection to the school with Parent's Assn. Very interesting to see children at work Afterwards we were invited to afternoon tea. Evening Shirley had bridge party and I went to see Jim Smith. June. 29 Sun. Mrs Hitchcock, Mamie and Mr Ennis up in afternoon. July 1 Tues. Enid arrived home from ChCh for three weeks holiday. July 2 Wed. Enid & Norman went out to inspect Norman's farm. July 4 Fri A & P ball in evening. July 5 Sat Afternoon football Horowhenua V Maori team to play British team. Horowhenua won 30 - 22. Tilly kicked 6 goals. July 7 Mon. Flagbridge golf in evening July 8 Tues. Sent George 250 pounds to help commence dairying. Tea at Hitchcocks, and choral. July 9 Wed. I went to Wgtn. to see W.H. Denton who has just returned from trip to England, also to see British team v Maoris. Excellent game. Britain won 19 - 13. Very exciting July 10 Thurs Party in evening. Hodder & Miss Parlane, Mr & Mrs N.W. Thompson, Mr & Mrs Bennett, Mr & Mrs Sharp. Very enjoyable. July 11 Fri.

Parent's Assn. "Bun Rush" in aid of central heating at school July 13 JulySun. We all went out to Norman's farm at "Moutere". Mrs Vickers, Grace, and Francis Pyke also there. After lunch took a long walk round farm. Evening Hodder and Miss Parlane came up with us. Norman took them home. July 15 Tues. John & I on fence most of day. I stopped at 3.30 pm. and after dressing I went with Billy Jack, Vincent, Hudson and Brewster to Paraparaumu in Brewster's car to opening of new Lodge Temple and installation at A.W. Petherick as Wor. Master. Big crowd there -about 200. Fine ceremony. July 18 Fri. Wet day. Felt off-colour - back painful so stayed in bed. Evening Shirley drove car to Palm. Nth. A & P Ball taking Mr & Mrs Vickers, Norman & Enid, and John. I stayed in bed. They had an enjoyable time and arrived home at 4.15 am. without mishap. July 20 Sun. Enid & Norman out driving in afternoon and stayed evening at Vickers. July 21 Mon. Enid & Norman left by car for Wgtn. as Enid is returning to ChCh tonight July 22 Tues. John took 117 forward wethers to Levin Saleyards and we sold them for 19/8. Was hoping for at least 2 pounds but thought it best to quit July 23 Wed. I went to Annual Meeting Levin Dairy Co. and afterwards took Shirley to see Levin Hunt at Horribins. Beautiful day and quite good turn out Norman rode "Jacko" who did fairly well but knocked his knee on the rails. Cards at Maxwells for the ladies and George Browns for me. July 24 Thurs. "Rio Rita" in evening. July 26 Sat.

Afternoon we went to town to listen to football - third Test N.Z. beat Britain at Auckland 15 - 10. "Disraeli" in evening. July 23 Mon. Snow fell on Arapaepae hills. July 29 Tues. Evening Shirley and I went to Gran Hitchcocks to tea. Afterwards I went to choral. July 30 Wed. George Thompson and man turned up about 3 pm. with new tank Had some trouble to take out old tank. I painted outside bottom of new tank. Annual meeting A. & P. Assn. in evening. I was re-elected to committee. Shirley stayed with Tui and I called for her. July 31 Thurs. Geo. Thompson's man McLean came alone to fix tank. Put coat of black mixture which I got from Mr Smellie on bottom of tank outside & John also painted the inside with same stuff. Also painted outside with white paint McLean finished tank, fixed spouting on wash-house and hole in roof by 4 pm. August 1 Fri.

Evening social to ladies by male members of Choral Society. Badly arranged but successful function on the whole. August 2 Sat Shirley and I went to Palm. Nth. taking Harold & Molly McLeavey with us. Harold and I went to meeting of Manawatu Exec. F.U. Shirley visited friends. Lunch at P.D.C. Saw Mrs McAlley. Good run both ways. Enjoyable day. August 6 Wed. Wet. Feeling seedy so stayed in bed all day. August 7 Thurs. Walked round ewes in morning but felt very much off-colour so retired to bed in afternoon. August 8 Fri Afternoon caught Napier Mail to Wgtn. to see Fourth Test match tomorrow. Met George & Mabel (Ferguson) who had been married yesterday. Took them to pictures (Majestic) Rotten show. Stayed the night Allenville. August 9 Sat

10 am. Perc, Alice, Hyde & I went to Athletic Park to see 4th Test N.Z. v Britain. Tremendous crowd 40,000. Good game won by N.Z. 22 - 8. Came home 5.40 train. Shirley met me. August 10 Sun. George & Mabel arrived from Wgtn. by motor bus to stay till tomorrow. Evening Cliff & Tui over. August 11 Mon. George & Mabel left for Waikato by Auckland Express. August 13 Wed. Afternoon John & I went to Ohau to hear lecture by Mr Connell on pasture & ensilage. Demonstration on Mr Anyon's farm. Evening meeting called to form Calf Club for children of local schools. Also Hunt Club Ball. August 16 Sat. Afternoon meeting at Farmers' Union. Small attendance and not much business. August 17 Sun. Ray Jones and family up in afternoon and Mr & Mrs Jim Smith in evening. August19 Tues. Evening at Jim Smiths. Wireless on 4th Test match. August 21 Thurs. Spent evening at Fultons. Cliff & Tui there also. August 22 Fri Evening Shirley & I took George Wilson, Miss Turvey, Eric Vickers and Miss Greig to Otaki Bowling Club Ball. Shirley & I went with complementary tickets representing Levin Bowling Club. Good crowd, enjoyable evening August 24 Sun. Another strenuous day among the sheep. Too tired to go out. August 25 Mon. Had to have Dr. Hunter up to see Bill who was running a high temperature and complained of sore ear. Had to take him to hospital when Dr. Hunter opened up the ear and also removed adenoids. Bill went through it very well. Molly Denton arrived from Wgtn and we picked her up at Hitchcocks. August 26 Tues. Shirley bought Bill back from hospital - looking fairly well. Miss Webb and Mamie up in afternoon. August 28 Thurs. Bridge at W.M. Clarks. August 29 Fri Bridge at Mrs Percys August 30 Sat. Afternoon I went to Levin with Shirley. Sept. 3 Sat. Afternoon went to the funeral of late Tom Brown. Big crowd. Masonic and Oddfellows Service. Evening installation of New Master. Bro. Ramsay. Big crowd of visitors including Bert Magee late of NZMR. He recognised me but I did not pick him at first. Bro. F.J. Foss presented me with my certificate. Sept. 6 Sat.

I went to meeting of Manawatu Exec. F.U. Long meeting. Sept. 7 Sun. Afternoon took family for a drive - left Shirley at Golf Links and took children round Koputaroa. Sept. 10 Wed. Made stand at cowshed. Commenced to repair back wall of wood-shed. Sept. 13 Sat. Evening Dramatic Society put on "Diane." Sept. 14 Sun. Church of England in morning. Rehearsal at Jenkins in afternoon. Tuis in evening. Sept. 15 Mon. I went to town to see to arrangements for meeting tonight. Helped Hossack cart seats from S.A. Barracks. Took Mr Wright and Mr Blenkhorne to station to meet Mr W.J. Polson who is addressing the Farmers' Union tonight We all went to Oxford tearooms for afternoon tea. Afterwards I took Mr Polson for a drive down to Horowhenua Lake and afterwards to Lake Papiatonga [Papaitonga]. Evening Mr Polson addressed about 150 people on "Politics of interest to Farmers." I was in the chair. W.D.F.U. provided supper afterwards. Sept. 16 Tues. I went to town in afternoon to Levin Sale afterwards to help F.R. Wright take seats back to S.A. Barracks. H. Hossack carted. Sept. 18 Thurs. Shirley beat Mrs Hosie for Junior Championship at golf. Sept. 19 Fri.

George Wilson and Miss Turfrey up to tea and evening. Sept. 20 Sat Went with Bill Kilsby, Gimblett and Mr Galpin to ear-mark calves, for children's calf rearing competition. Sept. 21 Sun. Rehearsal in afternoon. Sept. 22 Mon. Shirley and I took Maxwell and Fred Bartholomew to Feilding in order to attend the funeral of the late Ann Booth, Wattie Booth's wife who died on Saturday morning - meningitis. Very big funeral. Shirley and I lunched with Mr & Mrs Hassan. After funeral we drove out to Booth's homestead and stayed for about an hour. Left Fred Bartholomew there to stay with Wattle for a few days. Called to see the Kellows. Left Feilding 6.30. Had puncture on Sanson Rd and afterwards a blow out on Foxton Road about 6 miles out. Rang Eclipse Garage from Hon. Newmans. Ewing brought out new tyre and tube and fixed us up. Home 11 pm. Sept. 23 Tues. Went to Levin. Took car to Eclipse Garage to have valves ground and generally tuned up. Sept. 24 Wed. Fine. Took a load of passengers to Massey College for a visit Successful day - over 40 present. Grass plots very interesting showing superiority of Hawkes Bay rye over all others. On the way home drove with Adkin & Ron Law round Makerua Swamp. Sept. 25 Thurs. Well in afternoon. Felt very seedy so did not get up. Shirley went to golf links and played off the final for the Junior Championship when she beat Mrs Sherwood by 8 up and 6 to play. Sept. 26 Fri. Evening - men to Choral Society held social and dance, Only so -so. Sept 27 Sat

Shirley took Bill to hospital to have his tonsils removed by Dr. Hunter. Went through well. Sept. 28 Sun. Cold and dull. Shirley and I and children went to church. Called to see Bill on way home. Did not go out in afternoon. Sept. 29 Mon. Shirley brought Bill back from hospital. Oct. 1 Wed. Shirley not wel.l In bed all day. Oct. 3 Fri

Concert by blind students in evening - big house. Oct. 4 Sat.

Opening of bowling season. Big crowd from Foxton, Otaki and Palmerston Nth. Played against Foxton rink and the score was 17 -13 against us when we had to stop on account of rain. Shirley went with Mr & Mrs Seivers to Otaki to golf and won trophy. Oct. 5 Sun. Rehearsal in afternoon. Mrs & Bill Jack and family up in afternoon. Oct. 6 Mon. Evening Choral Society went to Foxton to play 'Maritana' in Town Hall. Good crowd and everything went well. Oct. 7 Tues. Went to Levin Sale. Afterwards to see Mr Blenkhorn re bill of sale George's heifers. Oct. 8 Wed. Showery, worked round house. Evening Choral Society put on "Maritana at Regent Theatre. Good house and successful turn-out. Social afterwards. Public well satisfied. Oct. 11 Sat Afternoon I went to bowls. Shill went to Otaki Races with Mr & Mrs Seivers. Evening Shirley and I took Mrs S. to pictures "Last of Mrs Chaney." Oct. 14 Tues. John took 4 heifers to Levin Sale and we sold them 2 for 9 pounds 12/6, one for 8 pounds 17/6, and the other for 7 pounds 1716. This was a big drop in the price of butter. Oct. 16 Thurs. Afternoon Shirley and I went to train to meet Evelyn and Milly who stayed the night with us, on their way to Gisborne where Evelyn has been appointed Manger for Common Shelton & Co. Ltd. Spent evening yarning round fire. Oct. 17 Fri. Evelyn and I took a walk up low hill so that he could see the view. They left by Napier Express. Evening I sang at Church of England Social. Big crowd there. Oct. 21 Tues. Letter from George telling of bad back and visit to Rotorua to specialist. Oct. 25 Sa. Weather cleared in afternoon and I went to bowls. Shirley went to Palm Nth with Mrs Seivers. Oct. 26 Sun. I brought Mary Beckett, Helen and Gran Hitchcock and Mamie up here in afternoon. Oct. 27 Mon. Labour Day. I went to Bowling Green but heavy rain came on so we could not start till afternoon. Had lunch at Gran Hitchcocks. Played with Monk and against Fletcher & Challies and after an even game they won by 20 - 17. Evening Shirley, John & I went to dance given by Mr & Mrs R.J. Foss in honour of wedding between their daughter Nancy & A. Taylor, son of F.H. Taylor who used to go to Webb's School with me. Had a most enjoyable evening. Oct. 31 Fri Pictures in evening. "The Divine Lady." Very good. Nov. 1 Sat. Went to meeting Manawatu Exec. F. U. at Levin - not much business. bowls in afternoon - good game. Nov. 2 Sun.

At home all day. John Hodder up for dinner and tea. Freda had her day off and did not come back. Nov. 3 Mon. Evening, Shirley & I paid visit to Mr & Mrs Geange. Nov. 5 Wed. Rain commenced noon and continued all the rest of the day. We all went to Garden fete organised by Home & School Assn. in aid of heating school Rain spoiled the whole affair which was opened by Hon Minister of Education, Hon. H. Atmore to whom I was introduced by the Mayor. I ran a side-show without much success. Nov. 7 Fri

Bridge at Mrs G. Browns. Nov. 8 Sat

Miss Gwen Hill commenced today as a help for Shirley. Nov. 9 Sun.

Mr & Mrs Geange came over to dinner. Nov. 11 Tues. Evening John performed at Church of England Bazaar playette called “The Dear Departed." Very good. Nov. 16 Sun. Jim Smith up to dinner and took us for drive in afternoon - Shannon, Moutoa, Foxton, Levin. Nov. 18 Tues. Dave Morgan and George Wilson shearing Did most of hoggetts. Choral Society went to Otaki and put on 'Maritana' 20 pound house and good turn-out. Nov. 21 Fri.

Percy Denton came up by 'Fields' train for weekend. Nov. 22 Sat. Levin Races. Shirley went with Mrs Seivers and Mrs SmailL Pere & went to bowls, afterwards to tea with Mr & Mrs Smaill. Nov. 23 Sun. Mr & Mrs Smaill up in afternoon. Mr Smaill & I went to service in Church of England for Freemasons. Percy called on Mr Ballingal. Jim Smith up for tea. Dec. 2 Tues. Shirley went to town. Lunch with Jim Smith and went to sale - nothing doing - after to bowls for a little while. Choral in evening. Bad cold. Dec. 3 Wed. Showery. Feeling seedy. Decided to go to bed after dinner in order to beat off influenza. Shirley went to bridge at Mrs N.M. Thompsons. Dec. 4 Thurs. In bed all day. John delivered heifers to Mr Morecomb's farm in Tararua Rd. Dec. 5 Fri. Fine. Up late. Went to Levin to see final judging in calf-rearing competition_ Good crowd there. Champion calf reared by Frank Kilsby's girl. Home about 4.30 pm. - done up so went to bed. Dec. 6 Sat

Fine. Shirley & I took Harold & Molly McLeavey with us to Palm Nth to meeting of Manawatu Exec. F. U. Business to select organiser for area. Arrived Levin 4.30 pm. Went to bowling green and played singles match with Kerslake whom I beat by about 8 points. Dec. 7 Sun

Fine. At home all day. Molly & Harold McLeavey up for tea and evening. Dec. 9 Tues. Went to Levin. Played bowls against Mr Fletcher and was badly beaten. (Handicap event) John went to Levin and brought home new mower (Bamford) from Dale Malcolms Dec. 10 Wed. Swimming sports in evening. Acted as starter and announcer. Dec. 11 Thurs Evening Choral Society put on "St John's Eve" - poor audience but very fair performance. Dec. 12 Fri. Evening played bowls singles with Mr Robertson and beat him 7 up. Bridge at Mrs George Browns. Dec. 13 Sat Afternoon went to bowls. Shirley and Mrs Herrick in charge of tea. Dec. 14 Sun Fine but cold. In the garden all day. Marge and Vivian (Adkin) over for afternoon tea. Dec. 16 Tues. Fine, left by Napier Mail for timer& 6 attended Farmers' Rally as representatives of Manawatu Exec. Reached there 6 pm and stayed at Egmont Hotel. Pictures in evening. Dec. 17 Wed Fine & warm. Attended monster Rally of farmers at Opera House which was packed to the doors. Mr W.J. Polson presided and spoke for over an hour. Afternoon 8 resolutions were passed by meeting. I had to second motion asking for stricter economy in Govt. Dept. Met several Returned chaps. George Tozer, Bill Ricketts, Jones and Harris O/C 24th NZMR. Evening had tea with Eddie Dixon and wife, walked around Hawera and afterwards played 500. Dec. 18 Thurs. Returned home on New Plymouth Express. Had tea at Mamies and went to Masons Christmas Party in Town Hall. Helped run show - telegraph boy and general. Dec. 19 Fri Evening I played Mr Fletcher for Junior Championship but he beat me Dec. 20 Sat Afternoon bowls. Matt Suhan beat me in handicap event. Dec. 21 Sun. Went to Church of England in morning. Mamie and Daisy Hitchcock and Miss Webb up in afternoon. Drove up river past Powles old place. Dec. 23 Tues. Went to sale - poor entry poor prices. Went to bowls and beat Allan by 20 - 13 in B championship. Killed lamb for Christmas. Dec. 24 Wed. Fine. Cleaned up round house. Shirley and I took children to town round 4 pm. and stayed till 7.30 pm. Mr & Mrs P.B. Smith and Roy up in evening and helped fill the stockings. Dec. 25 Thurs. Fine. Christmas Day. After usual opening of parcels Shirley, John & I went to Communion. Afternoon we all went to Koputaroa to Mrs C G. Wilsons (Newman property) for afternoon. Took Maxwell & children. Jim Smith and family, George & Mrs Brown also there. Dec. 26 Fri.

Fine but dull. We all went to Paraparaumu for the day. Visited Stewarts and afterwards the Smaills. Met Sweetman. Dec. 27 Sat. Fine and very hot. Worked round house. Afternoon went to bowls. Evening Chas. Collins and wife, and Frank and Marion, all from Whangarei called in to stay the night with us on their way to Timaru. Had jolly evening - music and bridge. Dec. 28 Sun. Fine and very hot. We all went up to 'Black Hole' for a swim. Very enjoyable. Collins left about 4.30 pm. for Waikanae where they are staying with Charlie's brother. Dec. 29 Mon. Tui & Norrie Denton over in evening. Dec. 31 Wed. Went to town in afternoon and again in evening to meet Doris Beckett who is staying with us for holiday.

Jan. 1 Tues. Heavy showers. Thought at one stage that weather would clear so started off to Waikanae but turned back at Manakau. Took children in afternoon over to Clare's place to see Edith. Evening Mr & Mrs C.G. Wilson came up to dinner (poultry) and played cards in evening. Jan. 2 Wed. Afternoon I went to town to bank and Post Office. Called on Dr Hunter, who had just returned from Australia. Examined for Life Insurance. Examination proved very satisfactory - everything A1. Called to see Hammond Murray who is in hospital. Jan. 4 Fri. In town in morning paying accounts. Called at Clares and brought Edith home. Took her for a drive up Ohau. Tui and Mary came over in afternoon. Took Edith home in evening and went to pictures - 'Speedy' fairly good. Jan. 6 Sun. Fine after showers. We went in new Chev to Waikanae Beach. Very pleasant day - good bathe. Ted with us for last jaunt. Jan. 7 Mon. Shirley mislaid keys to new car so had to send Ted to Eclipse garage for duplicate. Shirley meanwhile found her own. Took Ted and his belongings to Shannon where his new employer Mr Upton took delivery of him. Put in afternoon at Beechers haymaking. Swimming Club meeting in evening. Jan. 8 Tues. Took car to garage to have a few adjustments. Evening took Gran Hitchcock and Mrs Gibson to pictures and saw 'Chang' Good programme. Jan. 9 Wed. Billy Jack brought up two boys to stay as Mrs Jack had baby boy born. John returned from Wanganui. Jan. 12 Sat. John and I spent whole day at racecourse finishing off cattle yards. Good working bee. Jan. 13 Sun. At home Turtons up in afternoon. Also Billy Jack for tea. Jan. 15 Tues. Went to Levin Sale. Luncheon committee canvassed for provisions and funds for show and had great success. Shirley drove out to Mrs Newmans. Jan. 18 Fri. Fine and very hot. Decided to cart hay. The team consisted of: Trueman, Becher, boy Elliott, Hor i Cottle and D. Rockell (Vice C. Cottle) Pedersen, John and I. Started carting - two carts - soon after nine but afterwards put another cart (my light dray). This eventually came to grief at the crossing. We carted the bulk of the hay before knock off time. Alf Chorley late 27 NZMR called to see me in afternoon for about an hour. Jan. 20 Sun. Went to church in morning and brought Katie home from Clares to stay with us. Jan. 24 Thurs. Meeting of A & P luncheon committee in afternoon. I am representing the Assoc. in the catering. Evening Mr & Mrs Evans and Mrs Nurse over for evening. Jan. 26 Sat. Keith and Peter Jack returned home after being here for about 18 days while Mrs Jack in hospital. Katie returned to Clares. Jan. 28 Mon. Shirley and I went to Showgrounds to assist in preparing for show tomorrow. Jan. 29 Tues. Dull and light showers. Up early and drafted out 3 lambs that Vickers picked for Show and Hossack called for them about 9.30 am. and took them with Adkin to Showgrounds. Lambs looked quite respectable but did not score. I had to look after the wants of the ladies who are doing the catering so did not see anything of the Show. Steer riding proved very popular - unfortunately Norman Vickers had nasty fall and damaged his face and had to go to hospital. Very successful day and fair crowd. Home late and dead tired. Shirley and Mrs Crisp running ice creams. Jan. 30 Wed. Beautiful day. We arrived at Showgrounds at 9.30 am. and had strenuous day. Very big crowd and show went off splendidly. Gate taking increased 65 pounds on last year. Great rush an ice creams and drinks. Big job cleaning up after the affair. Home 7 pm. knocked out. Feb. 3 Sun. Dull, up late. Dr and Mrs Hunter called in morning. Bill and I took walk around rape lambs in afternoon. Feb. 6 Wed. Percy and Alice Denton arrived from Wgtn. to stay with us. Feb. 10 Sun. Beautiful day. We all went by car to Waikanae Beach nice bathing. Saw aeroplane which made forced landing on Friday. 11 Mon. Went to swimming sports in evening - started races and judged diving. Feb. 12 Tues. Tea in evening at Cliffs. Feb. 13 Wed. John and I split gum tree in orchard. Evening at Dora and Ron Laws. Feb. 14 Thurs. Percy and I went in Becher's dray to Levin taking 1 bale of lamb's wool to station and bringing home 80 ft. of one and a quarter inch piping - also new pole for mower from McIntosh. Afternoon Percy and I started fixing pipes in creek to get more fall for ram. Feb. 15 Fri. Fine. Percy, John and I finished laying pipes for ram and when allowed the water to run through, the extra pressure made all the difference in the flow of the water to the tank which was soon running over and has been ever since. Shirley and I then took Percy, Alice, Bill and Dick to Palmerston Nth. Had successful run and came home via Foxton. Feb. 16 Sat. Afternoon meeting of the Levin Branch of Farmer's Union but lapsed for want of quorum. Family went over to see Clare Gardner. Feb. 17 Sun. Afternoon we took Percy and Alice to Otaki to catch train for Wgtn. Feb. 22 Fri. Shirley and I left about 9.30 am. for Feilding taking Maxwell and Graham with us. About 30,000 ewes in the fair and some very good stuff. Excellent sale. Had dinner at Rangitikei Club with Mr Hector Booth and Wattie. Shirley had lunch with Vi Mellow and called on Misses Roe. Good run both ways. Feb. 24 Sun. Shirley and I took the 4 children to Church. I had to retire early with Dick and Bill. At home in afternoon. Feb. 25 Mon. Polly Beckett arrived to stay with us. Feb. 27 Wed. Shirley went to golf meeting and I took Polly to pictures. March. 2 Sat. Shirley, Polly and I went to Palmerston Nth per car. Had a puncture at Queen Street but had it repaired in Palmerston Nth. I went to meeting Manawatu executive. Home via Fox ton. March.3 Sun. Shirley, Polly, John and two girls went to church. Afternoon Mr & Mrs Tully visited us. March. 4 Mon. Wet. Could only do odd jobs. Met the Napier Mail and brought back Roly Denton of ChCh and late of 27th NZMR to stay for a few days. Bridge in evening. March. 5 Tues. Roly and I went to sale. Small entry on account of the weather. Afterwards Roly and I went to C.D. farm to have a look round. Jack Stevenson came with us and showed us everything. Evening we all went to Maxwells for bridge. March. 6 Wed. Roly returned to Wgtn. by Napier Mail. March. 9 Sat. Bridge at Mrs 'Power Board' Smiths. March. 11 Mon. Evening I started races for swimming sports and judged diving. Afterwards to Choral Soc. and Mrs Percys where the ladies were playing bridge. March. 12 Tues. Evening Shirley had bridge party - 5 tables went off well. March.14 Thurs. Evening meeting of local bodies to consider disposal of C.D. farm. Decided to ask for it to be cut up with 100 acres reserved for educational purposes. March. 16 Sat. Afternoon went to town and tea at Hitchcocks. March. 17 Sun. Beautiful day. Decided to take Polly for a run to Waikanae Beach. Had a very nice bathe and enjoyable day. March. 18 Mon. I took Shirley and Polly to station to catch Napier Mail for Wgtn. Choral Soc. March. 20 Wed. F.R. Wright and I spent some time canvassing for subscriptions for Farmer's Union. John mowing and I relieved him at milking time. March. 21 Thurs. I took boys with me to station to meet Shirley who was returning from Wgtn. but she eventually returned with Ron and Dora Law per car. I picked her up at Cheslyn Rise. saw Rev. and Mrs Abbey at station. They are moving to Australia. March. 22 Fri. Dead rat made its presence felt in kitchen - eventually found it in hot water cupboard. March. 23 Sat. Annual meeting Farmers' Union. Small attendance. Re-elected President and F.R. Wright secretary. March. 24 Sun. At home till 4 pm. when Shirley and I took children for a drive to Ohau River end of Kimberley Rd. Had tea there. Called at Cheslyn Rise to see Amy Ward and John. March. 25 Mon. John mowing on west Terrace, broke small part on knife blade so knocked off 3 pm. Intended to bring home load of firewood from knoll paddock but when driving horses up there, Jess suddenly reeled and fell over. I galloped up but she was dead before we reached there. I could not see any reason for her death. Trueman came over with his three horses and we dragged carcase to an adjacent hole for burial. Worst bit of luck I have had as she was worth 40 pounds at least. March. 28 Thurs. Wet day. Felt rather seedy so stayed in bed till dinner time. In house rest of day. March. 29 Fri. Good Friday. Showery all day so did not go out. March. 31 Sun. Easter Sunday. Fine Shirley, John and I went to 8 am. communion. Afternoon we stayed home. Anne not well. April. 1 Mon. Easter Monday. In the morning I brought Mamie Hitchcock and Miss Webb up to dinner. Walked up low hill and afterwards drove to Levin. John and I went to football, Hutt 6 Wanderers 3. Bridge at Mrs Marshs. April. 2 Tues. Fine. John and I went on building frame work of addition to motor shed. Hossack brought up iron from K. Shaws and took away 5 small lambs at 10/-. April. 4 Thurs. Mrs Tully, Beryl Biss and children up for day. April. 6 Sat. Whole day in Levin. Deputation to Hon. A.E. Ransom, new minister for Public Works. Meeting of Manawatu Executive of F.U. Long meeting - did not finish till 3 pm. I was again asked to stand for Presidency. Dr Hunter up to see Dick who is running a bit of a temperature but pronounced all right. Anne, Bill, Lois, Dick all off-colour in turn this week. Shirley went to Levin Private Hospital tonight - to have her tonsils removed in morning by Dr MacDonald. April. 7 Sun. Shirley was successfully operated upon this morning but when I visited her in the evening she was rather off-colour so I did not stay long. April. 8 Mon. Visited Shirley who is much better. Afterwards Choral Society. April. 11 Thurs. Took the children down to see Shirley. April. 13 Sat. Afternoon John went to football. I went to town and brought Shirley home. Looking very well. April. 14 Sun. Wet. At home all day. Helen Stewart here. April. 17 Wed. Took Shirley and 2 boys to station. Auckland Express to Palmerston Nth where they are to stay with Mrs McManus. Lois and Anne staying with Mrs Marsh. April. 21 Sun. Took two girls, Mamie Hitchcock and Miss Park to Palmerston Nth to bring Shirley home. The two ladies stayed at gardens and waited for our return. April. 24 Wed. John went to Feilding to stay with friends to attend 'Young Farmers' Show' at Agricultural High School. Shirley and I paid a visit to Harold McLeavey who has been ill with pleurisy. April. 25 Thurs. Anzac Day. All went to service in afternoon. Big crowd. April. 27 Sat. Cleaned up car-shed and car. Shirley went to golf and I to football. John returned home. April. 28 Sun. Misses Hitchcock & Park, Mr & Mrs O'Connor of Post Office up to see us. April. 30 Tues. Called on Mr Blenkhorn re J. Avery's mortgage. He is requiring further 225 pounds to finance 90 acres at Sanson for which he is exchanging for his house in Wgtn. over which I hold mortgage. Decided to go to Sansan to look at property. Shirley took prize at flower show. May. 1 Wed. Election Day. Shirley, Tui, Mr Adkin and I went to Sanson by car to look at property on account of J. Avery. Found place very neglected - house in ruins, land of fair quality, badly grassed and watered but capable of much improvement. Situation good. Returned home via Palmerston Nth where we had afternoon tea, then to Levin to polling booth. Result of election Blenkhorn beat Hobson for Mayor. Old Councillors re-elected plus Hannan, Walker, & O'Connor. May. 4 Sat. I went to Palmerston Nth re Annual General Meeting of Provincial Executive F.U. Went up with Harold McLeavey. O.P. Lynch elected President and B.G. Gower and self V.P.'s. I was also selected together with Bond to go to Dominion Conference. May. 5 Sun. At home all day. Lois not well. Helen Stewart over. May. 6 Mon. Evening ratepayers meeting addressed by candidates (Gately, Kilsby, Gimblett & Colquhoun) for county election on Wednesday. About 50 present and good meeting over which I presided together with Harold McLeavey. May. 8 Wed. County election. Cately and Colquhoun and Gimblett elected. Kilsby put out. Shirley went to Military Ball and I looked after house. May. 11 Sat. Went to Levin in afternoon Football Wanderers 11 Otaki 6. 14 Sun. Very wet. Up late. Could not do much. Went to town in afternoon. R.S.A. in evening. Also at Mrs Jacks. Shirley had bridge at Dr. Thompsons. May. 16 Thurs. Heavy floods in Hawkes Bay, Manawatu and Gisborne. May. 18 Sat.

Took Guy Evans and father-in-law Mr RolIett also Percy Prouse and boy to Palmerston Nth to Massey College. Trip being arranged by Farmer's Union. About 30 farmers present. Short lecture by Professor Peren, Riddel (dairy), Mr Skillington and Mr Clinton (vet). All very interesting. Farm looking well and lots of money being spent there. May. 19 Sun. Fine. Visit at Guy and Mrs Evans, Mr & Mrs Rollett and Mr & Mrs Jack. May. 20 Mon. Alice & Norrie arrived from Wgtn. for holiday. May. 25 Sat. Afternoon Norrie and I went to see football match Weraroa III v. Shannon III Good game which Weraroa won by 30 points John played quite good forward game. May. 26 Sun. Miserable day. John went to Wgtn. Alice, Norrie Shirley and I went to see Cliff and Tui in evening. May. 27 Mon. Cold & showery. Went by car to Masterton to Provincial Conference of F.U. Took Shirley also Harold McLeavey. Dinner at Woodville arrived Masterton 4.30 pm. Stayed at Mathon Lodge with Daniell family. May. 28 Tues. Cold and drizzly. Conference opened by Mr T. Jordan, Mayor. Speeches by Messers Sykes and McDonald Ms. P, Dalrymple in chair. Address by Mr Georgetti on 'Deteriorated Lands' Evening smoke-oh Very enjoyable, good programme. President Poison present. May. 29 Wed. Cold and drizzling. Address by Mr Polson. Conference finished at 4.30 pm. Tea in evening at Arch Daniells. Cards and music. May. 30 Thurs. Fine. Came home over Rimutakas and Akatarawa track. Shirley drove over both hills and I took over at Waikanae. Picked up Harold McLeavey and Mr Amyes at Carterton. Home at 4.30 after good run. Found Alice and children well. May. 31 Fri. Alice Denton returned to Wgtn. by New Plymouth Mail. June. 1 Sat. Went to town in afternoon. Doris Beckett came up from Wgtn. to spend weekend. Pictures in evening. June. 2 Sun. Fine. At home most of day. Took children for a drive to Ohau to see Mrs Marriott who is staying with Harold McLeavey. June. 3 Mon. King's birthday. June. 5 Wed. Annual meeting RSA. Again elected on executive. June. 8 Sat. Saw John play Weraroa v. Tokomaru. Weraroa won 9-6 after good game. Wanderers 11 beat Foxton 8. Bridge in evening at Mrs C.S. Wilsons. June. 9 Sun. Afternoon visit from Mr & Mrs J.A. Smith and Mr & Mrs Stephenson. Church in evening. June. 11 Tues. Very wet. John took 92 two tooth wethers to yards and I sold them far 33/6. Sheep looked very well and I had many complimentary remarks about them. June. 14 Fri. Evening flag bridge at Ohau. Shirley and I took Mrs Smith, Maxwell and Cyril. June. 15 Sat. Afternoon went to see football when Weraroa III beat Foxton III 30 to 3. John scored a try. June. 18 Tues. Severe earthquake yesterday at 10 am. Lot of damage to Westport, Greymouth, Nelson. 5 people killed. June. 21 Fri. Went with Clarry Wilson to P.B. Smiths to hear wireless. Shirley went to Bevans for bridge. June. 22 Sat. Took Shirley to golf links and afterwards went to train to meet Enid who is coming home for annual holiday. Train delayed by slips on line. June. 28 Fri. Shirley in Palmerston Nth with Mrs Sievers and 6 degrees all day. Farmers Union in evening and poor attendance. Richards spoke on recent conference. Mrs BimbIett and ladies provided supper. June. 29 Sat. Afternoon Shirley took Lois and Anne to Mrs Newmans. I stayed in town NZ footballers drew with NSW at Sydney no score. Game played in mud. June. 30 Sun. Evening Norman Vickers called to see Enid and asked our sanction to an engagement with her to which we consented.

July. 2 Tues. Ladies decorated St. Marys for dance tomorrow. July. 3 Wed. Fine, spent most of day helping prepare hall for dance in honour of Enid. George arrived by Napier Mail. Dance proved a great success. About 100 guests present and everyone seemed to enjoy it. Formal engagement of Enid and Norman announced and received with musical honours. July. 4 Thurs. Up late and went to town to clean up hall And return gear. Very tired so did no work. July. 6 Sat. Fine, up late. Went to meeting of Manawatu Executive. Afternoon to football Wanderers 15 Hui Mai 6. Weraroa III 12 Tokomaru 6. John scored. Australia 9 beat NZ 6 at Sydney. July. 7 Sun. Shirley, Enid, George, Jon, Norma and I went to church in evening. Called into Vickers on way home. July. 8 Mon. Afternoon George and I took a ride round farm. Endeavoured to take photos of the whole family but light bad. July. 9 Tues. After Levin sale helped with staging at De Luxe Theatre. Evening Choral Society held first concert for year. Put on 'The Rebel Maid' with good deal of success. Fair audience social afterwards. Soloists:- Miss Rapley, Mr Short, Miss Chalk, Mrs Devine, Mottershead and T.G. Vincent. July. 10 Wed. Took the whole family (except Lois and Anne) and Norman to Paraparaumu for the day. Visited Stewarts and walked round new roads being formed by McLeans for extension of township. Evening at Mrs McAlleys for bridge and dancing. July. 11 Thurs. Enid and Norman left by Napier Express for Christchurch and George by Auckland Express for Waikato. July. 13/14/15/16. Sat - Tues. Inside all the time with dose of the flu. Up on Tuesday at dinner time. July. 19 Fri. I found 1st lamb. July. 21 Sun. Jack family up in afternoon. July. 22 Mon. Evening Shirley and I went to see 'Charley's Aunt' put on by Local Amateurs. Quite a good performance. John in chorus. July. 23 Tues. Went to Wgtn. by train. Shirley had to drive me to Manakau to overtake train which we missed at Levin. The Chev. was doing over 50 mph. Travelled down with P.B. Smith and Major Tatum. Attended Dominion Conference of F.U. as Manawatu delegate. July. 24 Wed. All day at conference. O.P. Lynch and H. Bond also delegates. Lunch at Gamble and Creeds with Edith, Kate and Percy. Afternoon tea at Kirkcaldies at invitation of Mr & Mrs Polson. Met Charlie and Effie Houghton. Lecture by Prof. Murphy in evening. Very good. July. 25 Thurs. At conference all day. Went with Robert G. Denton and Percy N. Denton to complimentary luncheon to His Honour Mr Justice Myers who has just been appointed Chief Justice given by Wgtn. College Old Boys Assn. Met several old friends. Fine speech by Hon. Atmore, Minister for Education. July. 26 Fri. Finished conference about 5 pm. Moved from Fern Hill to Percys. Percy, Alice and I went to Majestic pictures. Splendid building poor show 'Supper at Ritz' Met Sid Jackson, old Te Aro school boy. July. 27 Sat. Fine. Perc and I went to Athletic Park to see university beat Poneke 24-9. Good fast game. Perc took me to Savage Club at night. Met Edgar Wylie and Arthur Seed. July. 28 Sun. Fine. Rotten cold on me. Afternoon Rob, Percy and I took walk to hilltop to look around as it is suggested that we put the property on the market. Mr Ward surveyor came with us and showed us method of cutting up. Feeling very seedy. July. 29 Mon. Came home by Napier Mail. As I was feeling very much off colour I went to straight to bed. July. 30 Tues. In bed all day. John went to Feilding to attend Old Boys function at Ag. High School. July. 31 Wed. In bed all morning. Up for a bit in afternoon. Val Pedersen came over and milked the cows - 2 - and looked around the ewes. Aug. 1 Thurs. Val milked in morning. Up about 10 am. John came home New Plymouth train and brought a friend Trevor Allen to stay over weekend. Aug. 3 Sat. I went with Harold and Mrs McLeavey to Palmerston Nth to executive F.U. Full meeting. Report on conference. Back in Levin 3 pm. and went to see final III class championship when Weraroa III beat Tokomaru III 11-9 after good game. Aug. 7 Wed. Visit from Mr Hutchinson of Murray Roberts & Co. and Mr F. Ashbolt whom I knew as a schoolboy at Mt Cook School. Went to see III class rep. match Horowhenua v. Bush. John playing hooker for Horowhenua who won by 16-5. Good game. John went with Dramatic Society to Otaki to put on 'Charley's Aunt' Aug. 8 Thurs. Shirley had bridge party (ladies) in evening. Aug. 9 Fri. John off colour so we sent him to bed. Maxwells for bridge in the evening when I won the prize. Aug. 10 Sat. Showery. John still in bed but improving so I had to do all odd jobs. Aug. 11 Sun. Fine, John up today and milked cows in evening. Aug. 12 Mon. I went with Doug and Norman Vickers to look at property across the lake. Good sandhill country under offer to Norman by W.S. Park. Rather taken with place - dry and warm. Ewes and lambs on place looking well. Rent will turn out at about 12/- and should be a fair proposition. Choral in evening, afterwards called for Shirley at Mrs Wilsons where there was a bridge party. Aug. 13 Tues. Evening Shirley and I went to bridge at Mrs W. Donnellys. Good time. I won prize. Good music. Aug. 16 Fri. I went to town with Shirley to meet Edith who is to stay with us over the weekend on her way back to Wgtn. I called at Blenkhorn and Todds and received cheque from James Avery 722 pounds 15 shillings (722/15/-) being amount of mortgage 700 pounds plus interest to terminate mortgage. Aug. 18 Sun. We took Edith and 4 children to church in morning. Shirley and Edith went to see Claire. Aug. 28 Wed. Lois not very well. Dr Hunter up to see her in evening. She and Anne have been in bed for a couple of days. Aug. 30 Fri. Golf Club Ball in evening. Successful affair. Home late - very tired. Aug. 31 Sat. Afternoon John and I went to see football Wgtn. Juniors 14 Manawhenua Juniors 9. Fair game. Sept. 2 Mon. Choral and afterwards called for Shirley at Mrs Halls. Sept. 3 Tues. After sale went to MacKenzies and had two teeth drawn. Early to bed feeling rather mouldy. Sept. 6 Fri. Bridge at Mis Bowens. Sept. 7 Sat. I went to Provinicial Executive F.U. in Levin and afterwards to football Manawhenua 35 Wanganui 19. Very interesting game. Shirley, Marjorie, John and I went to dance given by Mrs D.S. Mackenzie. Very pleasant evening. Sept. 8 Sun. Shirley and children went to C of E. Confirmation. Sept. 9 Mon. Choral afterwards Mrs Smaill. Sept. 10 Tues. I went to Levin sale, afterwards dentist Evening I spent at Bill Jacks while Shirley went to bridge at Dr Thompsons. Sept. 15 Sun. Beautiful day. Shirley, John and I went to communion at 8 am. Full church. Brought Hodder back with us and he walked round sheep with me. After dinner Shirley Hodder and I took Mrs Sievers and Mrs Wilson to golf links and they did a round with me in attendance. Shirley put up her best score. Hodder stayed for evening. Sept. 16 Mon. Tea at Maxwells and choral. Met Misses Duthie and Lindsay and Mrs Barron at Maxwells. Very heavy snow on Taranzas. Sept. 19 Thurs. Evening we had a small card party. Maxwell and Cyril Bartholomew, Misses Duthie (2) Mr & Mrs Smaill and Mr Hodder. Sept. 20 Fri. Evening pictures "The Cohens and the Kellys" Sept. 22 Sun. Beautiful day. I drove down for Mrs Jack and Children. Afternoon Mr & Mrs Smaill, the Misses Duthie and Miss Cornish drove up to see us. 25 Wed. Midge at Mrs O'Connors. Sept. 28 Sat. Cold but fine. Went to Wgtn. by morning train to see football North Is. v. South Is. Big crowd and splendid game, North won 29-20. Evening Edith and I went to the 'talkies' at Kings. Sept. 29 Sun. Church in morning. Edith & I to zoo in afternoon. Allenville in evening. Sept. 30 Mon. Came home by Napier train. Oct. 2 Wed. Billy Jack up to see me in evening. Oct. 3 Thurs. Afternoon went to town on business. Evening I attended Lodge Horowhenua as a candidate for membership and was duly initiated. Stood the strain fairly well Wor. Bro. L.J. Hunter W.M. in the chair and I had a very cordial welcome. My health proposed at supper by Billy Jack. Oct. 5 Sat. Went with Harold McLeavey to Palmerston Nth. to attend meeting Manawatu Executive F.U. Not much business - back early. Oct. 6 Sun. Showery. Afternoon brought Geange and his wife round to see us. Could not walk round as too wet. Oct. 9 Wed. Wet. Up at 5.30 am. and went to Levin saleyards to lift cattle I bought yesterday. Heavy showers during day so could not do much. Evening Shirley and I went to Social Evening given by Mrs Vickers in aid of Choral Society. Very successful - big crowd there. Oct. 11 Fri. Fine. Shirley went to Wellington for the day with Mr & Mrs Sid Sievers. I went to Feilding with Guy Evans to see Feilding Cattle Fair. Also in car with us - Gimblett, Mort Ryder, Mr Blake and one other. Evening - bridge at Mrs J.A. Smiths. Shirley arrived late. Oct. 12 Sat. Afternoon went to funeral of E.W.J. Smith who has been paralysed for last 2 years. Big funeral Masonic burial service. Shirley not feeling well so stayed in bed all day. Oct. 18 Fri. F.R. Wright and I went canvassing on behalf of F.U. Took Falloon with us and visited C.D. Farm settlers and enrolled three of them. Remainder postponed in meantime. Settlers all seemed pleased with their farms. Oct. 19 Sat. Fine. Made my first appearance as a bowler in Levin Club. Only fair. Oct. 23 Wed. Evening Shirley and I went to Choral Evening at Mrs T. Devines. Very good. Oct. 26 Sat. Afternoon went to bowls and did fairly well. Oct. 27 Sun. Afternoon Shirley and I took children for a drive - first to see property that Norman is buying and afterwards to the beach. Heavy wind in evening. Oct. 28 Mon. Labour Day. I took Shirley and children also Helen Beckett and Ray Jones' children to Paraparaumu. Slight shower on arrival. We picnicked on Stewart's verandah as they were away for the day. Shirley and I went to the opening of the Golf Links. Quite a crowd there. McLeans, Howell, Sweetman, K. Kirkcaldie, Dr Cameron. Shirley entered for competition and did a few holes. Home 7.30 pm. enjoyable day. Oct. 31 Thurs. Holdaway and Mr Mears called to see me about taking shares in new bank. Nov. 2 Sat. Went to meeting Manawatu Executive F. U. Afterwards went to bowls. Am feeling more at home now. Nov. 3 Sun. Fine. Visit from Mrs & Miss Hitchcock and Mr & Mrs Jack afternoon. Nov. 7 Thurs. Evening I went to Freemasons Lodge and was put through my second degree. Managed fairly well and got through without mishap. Shirley at bridge at Mrs Smaills and I brought her home. Nov. 8 Fri. Drove to town to look for shearers and decided to begin tomorrow morning. Shirley and I took all the children to Fancy Dress Ball in aid of School Funds. Huge success. Big crowd. Bill and Dick went as cowboys in suits formerly worn by George and Jack, and Lois and Anne were Dutch boy and girl and looked very well. Nov. 9 Sat. Furrie and George Wilson commenced shearing at 8 am. Helen Beckett up to stay with us. Nov. 11 Mon. Furrie failed to turn up so after breakfast I drove down to Weraroa and found him but not inclined to come to work. However, I brought him back after doing a few sheep he turned in the job and I took him back to town and we procured Charlie to take his place for the day. Charlie worked till 4 pm. when he and George cut out the hoggetts. Charlie did 57 but he put his tally on to Furries. Shirley took him down to catch the 4.50 train. Helen Beckett also returned to Wellington by same train. Final rehearsal for 'Tom Jones'. Did not go to R.S.A. "Smoke Oh" as I was too late. Nov. 12 Tues. Fume and George turned up at 6 am. and continued shearing. Had a successful day. Evening Choral Society put on 'Tom Jones' with fair amount of success. Good crowd and not many errors. Social afterwards. Nov. 13 Wed. Vickers came and drafted lambs. Gordon took delivery about 11 am. Shirley helped him to Queen Street with them. Nov. 15 Fri. Evening went to Bazaar of Church of England. Nov. 17 Sun. We called to see Mr & Mrs Bill Donnelly and to look at their new house. It is extremely fine building with every conceivable convenience. Nov. 18 Mon. First practice of the 'Messiah' which is being staged in a month's time. Nov. 21 Thurs. Mrs Vickers, Norman and Mrs Ballinger up in evening. Nov. 23 Sat. Shirley went to Levin Races and I went to bowls. Nov. 24 Sun. Fine and very hot. Mr & Mrs Smaill and Mrs Crisp came up in afternoon and Mr & Mrs P.B. Smith in evening. Nov. 25 Mon. Finished baling up wool and Hossack came and delivered it to Railway. Nov. 26 Tues. Went to tea with Mr & Mrs H. Hossack. Slight collision to car. H.J. Richards ran into us near sale yards. Nov. 27 Wed. Flag bridge in evening. Nov. 28 Thurs. Will and Mary Beckett arrived from Wellington to stay with us. Nov. 30 Sat. Went to Fair held by school Was to have run side-show but help not required. Dec. 1 Sun. Took Will Beckett to catch morning train to Wellington. Afternoon Mary, Shirley and I went to Mrs Hitchcocks to tea. Afterwards to Church - Archdeacon Johnson. Dec. 4 Wed. Afternoon I went to bowling green to see Triangular Shield match. Had a game with Fletcher, P. Meyers and another. A. & P. meeting in evening. Dec. 5 Thurs. Insurance agent (Hogan) up to see John. Farmer's Union meeting in evening to consider notice of motion by J.T. Kent for abolition of military training. Motion not supported. Good meeting. Dec. 6 Fri. Mary Beckett and Helen who came here last night left for Paekakariki. Dec. 7 Sat. Went to Palmerston Nth. to Provincial Exec. F. U. with Harold McLeavey. Notice of motion re military training postponed on account of non-appearance of mover J.T. Kent Arrangements for British tour of farmers. Returned to Levin 3 pm. and went to bowling green. Dec. 8 Sun. Brown, Mr O'Connor postmaster came to dinner and stayed till about 9 pm. Dec. 10 Tues. Went to Levin Sale also to MacKenzie about teeth. Went to Westminster singers in evening - an excellent programme. Dec. 12 Thurs. John and I dug up bamboo in front of house and carted it away. Tough job. Commenced to dig up patch. Dec. 13 Fri. Wet day. Feeling rather seedy. Gladys in bed feeling unwell. Helped in house most of day. John did odd jobs and got wet through. Cut rata. Evening Shirley and I went to visit Mr & Mrs Geange. Played bridge. Dec. 14 Sat.

I took Lois to MacKenzie about 8 am. and he drew 4 teeth after giving her gas. She soon recovered after she was put into bed. I went to Levin to do some shopping. Gladys up in afternoon.

Dec. 15 Sun. Met train bringing visiting members of Wgtn. Royal Choral Union to help with "Messiah". Afternoon rehearsal in Municipal Theatre. Dec. 16 Mon. I met Napier train and brought Mr & Mrs Harland up to stay with us. Went for a short run in afternoon. Gladys not well, so I brought her mother up to stay with her all night Evening local performance of the "Messiah". Fair house. A good performance by chorus, soloists very good. Miss Caldow, contralto; Miss Rapley soprano; Ernest Short bass; Mottershead tenor. Good social afterwards. I proposed health of visitors. Dec. 17 Tues. Took dog 'Don' to Levin yards and sold him for 27/6. I took Harland to bowling green for little while. Mr & Mrs Hawke and sister up in evening to see Harlands. Dec. 18 Wed. Afternoon took Harlands to train. Went to 'breaking up' party at infant school Evening Christmas party given by Masons. Good turn out I assisted with entertainment. All children received presents. Dec. 21 Sat. I went to MacKenzie re teeth afterwards to bowling green. Dec. 24 Tues. Shirley and I went to town in the afternoon. Mr, Mrs & Miss (P.B.) Smith up in evening and helped with presents. Dec. 25 Wed. Fine. Christmas Day. After children had opened presents Shirley John and I went to 8 am. service. Afternoon Mr & Mrs O'Connor and Marie, Mr & Mrs G.G. Wilson came up. Evening Shirley and I went to party at Vickers. About 50 people there and had a very jolly evening. Dec. 26 Thurs. Boxing Day. Cold wind. I brought Gran and Mamie Hitchcock and Mr Ennis up in afternoon and they stayed till 9 pm. Lois not very well and went to bed. Dec. 28 Sat. Dull but fine. Shirley and I went to town to meet Nella Appleby and son John who are staying with us for a few days. Went to bowls in afternoon. Dec. 29 Sun. Raining in morning. Mrs Vickers and Norman brought Mrs Stanswell up to see us. Billy Jack up for tea and evening. Dec. 31 Tues.

I went to town with the lathes and went for short drive. John went to Palm. Nth with Val.

Jan. 1 Sat. Fine. Odd jobs round house in morning. Afternoon we drove up Ohau taking Edith and Kate with us. Had bathe. Very enjoyable. Home 7 pm. Jan. 2 Sun. Fine. Edith and Kate over to dinner and tea. Edith, Enid and I sorted out Jen’s things in my room, and handed them over to the children - mostly to Enid. In evening drove them all to Methodist Church. Covenant service following. Jan. 4 Tues. Up at 4 am. Auntie and Enid did washing. The boys and yarded the black-faced Lams from Vickers to look at. He drafted out 80 fats at 25/6 - good stuff. Could not do any business with wethers or fat ewes. Wet. Went down in car and brought Knight up to look at wethers and fat ewes. Jan. 5 Wed. Went down in car and brought Knight up to look at wethers and fat ewes. I asked 30/- but eventually accepted 28/6. I delivered them to his paddock in afternoon. Jan. 6 Thurs Dipped 176 woolly lambs and 52 woolly black-fazed lambs. Willie Stewart came over from Foxton Beach where they are having a holiday. He took Jack back with him. Jan. 7 Fri. Up 6 am. Mustered black-faced lambs, drafted off those marked by Vickers. George and I took them to the station and trucked them. Later dipped rejects, 63 in all. Jan. 9 Sun. Very hot indeed. In afternoon motored down to Billy Wilson's. George and I came back to milk and returned to town. Intended to go to church but car jibbed so had to get Sawtell who fixed her up. Jan. 10 Mon. Fine and hot. Worked in yards. Had two good swims in bathing hole. Jan. 11 Tues. Went to Levin Sale, slack, only a few sheep offering. Left car at Sawtells for a few adjustments. Stayed to tea at Billy Wilson's. Jan. 12 Wed. Honore here early cutting hay. After dinner the children and I went down by car to Horowhenua Show - only a fair crowd. Jan. 13 Thurs We all went to the Show again. Good tropic, and altogether a great success. Saw lots of people I knew. Jan. 14 Fri. Commenced to rake up hay soon after 7 am. Billy Wilson and Hughie turned up about 6.30 am. also Poad, Jim Grant and the two Port boys. Made good progress till about 2.30 pm. when wind sprang up from the east and made things unpleasant. Shed full up about 4 pm and still a few loads out - decided to leave the rest till tomorrow. Jan. 15 Sat. Very heavy wind from the east - hay being blown about everywhere. Heavy rain in afternoon. Later cleared and turned cold. Jan. 16 Sun. Alb and Vi Kellow and family motored down from Feilding to see us. Alb and I went to Levin after dinner and brought back Helen Beckett for afternoon tea. Kellows left about 6 pm. Children and I motored down to church taking Helen with us. Jan. 17 Mon. Mr Rhodes of Dalgety's called up at 5 am. and took me and Billy Wilson to Manakau to look at some ewes offering there for 23/-. Healthy stuff but too old for breeding. Came home at great rate arriving at 7.30 am. My helpers helped get rest of hay in. Jan. 19 Wed. Put in all day at Ports - haymaking. Received news that George had not obtained scholarship. Jan. 20 Thurs Went to Wellington by evening train. Jan. 21 Fri Did some business in Wellington. Edith and I left for Lyttleton by Wahine. Met Doris Beckett on boat. Splendid trip. Jan. 22 Sat Arrived in Lyttleton at 7.30 am. Stayed an ChCh till midday, enjoyed rooms at St. Elmo. Arrived at Studholme. Shirley met us with Evelyn's car. Stayed at Millie and Evelyn Beckett's. Social evening at Renton where I met all the family. Jan. 23 Sun. Shirley and I went to church with the family. Dinner at Ranton. Afternoon visited Mrs Fitch. Evening Evelyn drove us to Mrs Madlicott's. Jan. 24 Mon. Shirley and I went to Waimate. Afternoon Evelyn drove me round country to Studholme and through Willowbridge. Good country. Jan. 25 Tues. Evelyn and I went by car through Waimate Gorge to Waiho Downs to sale. Roly Denton arrived by train. Evening at Ranton. Roly staying with me at Millie's. Jan. 26 Wed. Dull morning but beautiful by midday. Roly and I in town in morning. Ready dressed for ceremony 11.30 am. motored to church. Shirley arrived, slightly late. We were married by Canon Coates and Rev. J.A. Julius. Bride looked lovely and did her part well. Wedding breakfast at S.Schcol. Afternoon tea at Ranton. Big crowd of friends. Doris Beckett bridesmaid, Roly Denton best man. Edith Denton only one of my family present. Very successful event. Shirley and I caught express for ChCh arriving at St. Elmo 7.30 pm. Nice rooms for tea. Jan. 27 Thurs Round about ChCh visiting Shirley's friends - Nella Appleby. Jan. 28 Fri. Nana Appleby was in town with us. R.H.Denton and Armstrongs in the afternoon and evening. Jan. 29 Sat. Fixed up trip to the glaziers with Tourist Dept. Visited Mrs Paton. Jan.30 Sun. Cathedral in morning. Nella Appleby in afternoon and tea. Jan. 31 Mon. Went to Roly's then to Buckleys. Pack up in evening. Feb. 1 Tues. Caught train for W. Coast. Good trip over Otira. Rata in bloom. Motor from Otira to Hokitika. Splendid run. Arr. Hokitika 7.30 Stayed Red Lion. Fairly comfortable.


Feb. 18 Fri. Shirley and I returned from Wellington. Willie met us and brought us home by car. Auntie here to receive us but they left soon afterwards. Went to town for Shirley's box. Nine tin-kettlers up in the evening. Feb. 19 Sat. Went to town in the afternoon. Shop day for school picnic. Very successful. Feb. 20 Sun. Motored up to Tully's in afternoon. Feb.21 Mon. Vickers came in morning and drafted out 60 at 23/-. Feb. 22 Tues. Fine and very dry. Rode round stock in morning. Not much feed but stock looking well on whole. Shirley and I drove to town and I went to sale - very slack. Rain in evening. Feb. 24 Thurs Went with Billy Wilson to Pahautanui to stock sale. Went by train and by antiquated coach. Big yarding of stock. Billy bought good healthy stuff are should prove satisfactory. Home by 7.45 train and to Denaby in Billy's car. Shirley spent the day alone. Feb. 25 Fri. Showery in night. Picture benefit for school picnic. Big crowd. Rotten show. Feb. 27 Sun. Went to Church of England in morning. Brought W.H.Beckett and his two boys home to dinner. Took a walk round in afternoon, and motored them down in evening. March 1 Tues.


Took 42 reject black-faced lambs to sale, sold in three lots at 14/6 to Willie Stewart, Broadbent and another. Billy Wilson sold his Pahautanui lambs bought at 5/- for 6/9. March 2 Wed. Raining fairly heavily. Shirley and I rode round to Adkins for the two Romney rams bought a week ago. Cleared up in afternoon we took Willie Stewart and Peter to swimming sports held by Levin school. Fair crowd of people - successful outing. Left car at Sawtell's on way down but it did not come home very well. March 4 Fri. Shirley rode to town on Tommy to see Helen. Viv went with her. March 5 Sat. Shirley had visitors. Mrs & Miss Kebble. March 9 Wed. Shirley brought Mary and Helen up for the day. I had trouble with plow share. Ken Biss and Beryl Tully came up to tea and evening. March 11 Fri. School picnic at Plimmerton. Shirley, Johnnie and I motored down to station taking Peter Stewart with us. Left Levin 8 am. arrived Plimmerton 10 am. Had a good time, bathed. Picnicked with Mrs Vickers, Mrs MacIntyre and co. Home at 8 pm. and found Willie Stewart had milked for us. Good old sport. We thanked him most heartily. March 18 Fri. Mr & Mrs & Miss Tully drove up to see Shirley. March 19 Sat. Shirley and I and Jack drove to the teach, taking Helen with us and joined up with Mrs Vickers and Mrs and Miss Hitchcock. Had an enjoyable day. Heavy rain as we approached home. March 23 Wed. Wet. Went with Shirley and Mrs Vickers to wedding of Miss Dorothy Goldsmith and F.H.Hudson. Big crowd and successful turnout. Mrs Vickers came to tea and the boys came up afterwards. March 25 Fri. Good Friday. Didn't do much. Vickers boys drove up in afternoon. March 27 Sun. Feeling very stiff. We all went to Church of England. Seedy in afternoon. March 28 Mon. Easter Monday. Did not get up all day. Shirley doctored me up. Johnny did the work and went to the Lake to see the boat races. April 2 Sat. Finished dipping. Tally 75 cull ewes. 214 old ewes with black-faced rams. 317 young ewes. 68 wethers 176 lambs 17 rams, = 867. April 3 Sun. Billy and Amy came to see us in afternoon. Church of England in evening. April 5 Tues. Shirley and I motored to Levin - I went to sale – prices still very low. Adkin sold fat ewes and wethers 14/6 lambs 8/1. School committee in evening - last meeting of year. April 6 Wed. Shirley and I went down to a furniture sale but did not buy anything. Prices were pretty good. April 7 Thurs Helen and Mrs Beckett & Mrs Gower up in afternoon. Shirley drove them down in evening and stayed to the Golf meeting and brought Guy Beckett home with her. April 9 Sat. Shirley drove to town taking Gerald with her. Met the New Plymouth express and brought Frank home. He is rather off colour and Dr. has ordered him a holiday. April 12 Tues. Adkin and Clare drove over in evening to see Frank. April 13 Wed. Carted wood in afternoon. Shirley assisted me. April 15 Fri. Willie and Mrs S. over in evening. April 16 Sat. Shirley and I went in car to see cricket match. Kimberley Rd. v. Gladstone Rd. K. winning by 15 runs. Match played in Adkins paddock, close to bridge. Afternoon tea in Reserve. April 18 Mon. School committee election in evening. Fair crowd. Old committee re-elected, also Dr. Gow in Thomson's place. I was 8th on list. Roe, Grove, BouId, Vickers, Hobson, Proctor, Gow, Denton, Short. April 21 Thurs Shirley took Frank to station en route for Wellington. Mrs Vickers and Mrs Stansell Snr. up in afternoon. April 22 Fri. Went to town by Napier Mail. Alec, W.G.A. Picked up Laurie on way. Meeting of the family in the evening till midnight. April 23 Sat. Went up with Edith to see round extension table at Collie's but could not buy as the last table was sold. Afternoon went up with the rest of male members of the family to 'hilltop' and viewed the property. April 24 Sun. Laurie and I went to Methodist church. Unveiling of tablet by Maj-General Robin. Afternoon went to AlIenvale to see kids. Evening at Fern Hill. April 25 Mon. Laurie and I returned home by Napier Mail. April 26 Tues. Billy Wilson came up in the afternoon to have a chat re his farm. Seemed rather downhearted over the prospects. However, he cheered up afterwards, and stayed to tea and all night. April 27 Wed. Shirley had visitors Mrs Cyril Bartholomew, Miss Brown, Mr & Mrs Rochel. R.A. Wright elected Mayor of Wellington by large majority over Hickey. April 20 Sat. Shirley went to golf. May 1 Sun We all drove down to Billy Wilson's to dinner. Billy and I walked to the cemetery. May 3 Tues. Called to see Mr Blenkhorn, afterwards Shirley to see Auntie and Mrs Pyke. May 4 Wed. Harrcwing most of the day. Hossack brought up seed from Hodder and Tolley, also a case from Waimate containing Shirley's presents. May 5 Thurs In evening we all motored to Railway Station to meet George - home for holidays. May 6 Fri. Enid home for holidays. May 7 Sat. Shirley and Enid went to golf. Mrs Port and Percy over in evening. May 8 Sun Wet, did not get up till late. The children cooked breakfast. Very cold and raw. Ken Biss amd Beryl came up to tea and stayed for evening. May 10 Tues. In evening Shirley, Enid and George went with Mrs Vickers to see the "Diggers" and I went to Returned Soldiers smoke concert. Good crowd turned up as evening wore on. Jack stayed at Vickers all night. May 12 Thurs Shirley and I went to the first dance of the Nikau Assemblies. Big crowd there and a fair turnout. May 13 Fri. Rain in early morn. Enid cooked breakfast. In afternoon George and I walked round back hill to look at Read’s fence. Took some cocksfoot with us and sowed it on bare patches as we went along. Dr. and Mrs Gow and friends up to see Shirley in afternoon. May 14 Sat. In afternoon we all went to town. Shirley and Enid to golf. George Jack and I went to see football - only juniors. May 15 Sun. Intended to go to church but the Maxwell jibbed and we could not get it to start. We eventually drove down in the phaeton, too late for church, but we all went to Will Beckett’s for dinner and tea. Met Mr and Mrs Bertie Beckett. May 17 Tues. Sawtell came up and fixed the car - nothing much wrong, mainly adjusting mixture. Spent some time oiling up car. Moved some shrubs. Shirley, children and I went to Levin. After sale went to see Blenkhorn re will and boundary survey. May 18 Wed. Sowed grass seed on back hill in afternoon. Enid assisting me. May 19 Thurs Enid drove down and brought back Mr & Mrs Bert Beckett, Helen and the boys for the day. Visitors stayed for evening and we had a hilarious time at charades. May 20 Fri. In afternoon Shirley and I drove to Levin and brought Auntie Bowles back to tea and the evening. May 21 Sat. We went to Levin in afternoon. Shirley visited and I went to see football. Levin 3 Shannon 3. George in bed - seedy. May 22 Sun. All went to church C. of E.) Children went to Mrs Pykes to see Aunt.Shirley and I went to dinner with Helen. Brought Harold Beckett back. May 23 Mon. Shirley took Harold and family to golf links for the day. Helen came back to tea and evening. Had visitors. Helen, Harold, Cliff, Viv, Mrs Gilbert, Mrs Crawford, Percy Port and Tui Dyer. May 24 Tues. Shirley took Harold and Helen home. I lay about all day, went to bed at teatime. Pain under left shoulder blade. Billy Wilson up in evening discussing farm. May 25 Wed. Did not get up till dinner time. Shirl went to Vickers. May 26 Thurs Shirl went to Major Brookfields. All went to Stewarts in evening. May 28 Sat. Shirley went to Otaki to play golf travelling with Mrs MacKenzie in car. George, Enid and I went to Levin, Jack to Stewarts. Saw football Weraroa v. Foxton (Juniors) May 30 Mon. George went back to College by Napier Mail. May 31 Tues. Messrs. Middleton and Son and Coulter arrived about 8.30 per Ford and I went with them to survey the give and take fence between myself and Hodge. The measurement of so many angles took some time but managed to finish the job by 5 o'clock. They stayed to dinner and afterwards until nearly 11 pm. when they went back to Arcadia to sleep. Enid went back to Wanganui today. June 2 Thurs Dosed and crutched 103 lambs. All healthy and lively. Pretty tired and bad back. Hot bath. PrendeviIle over to see us in evening. June 4 Sat. Shirley went to golf. June 7 Tues. Shirley and I put out hay. At sale market better for sheep. Visited school with Short. Went to Dick Harris' to tea. School Committee in evening. June 8 Wed. Shirley took car to Otaki taking a load of ladies to play golf. I sewed up bales and branded them preparatory to sending them to Wellington to be shipped Home. Kimbell arranged space for 15 bales on sailing vessel. June 11 Sat. Dinner early as Shirley had to go to golf, and I attended a meeting of the Farmers Union. Fair crowd. I was put on committee. After meeting heard Mr W. Polson speak on union matters. Afterwards I went to see football. June 17 Fri. Windy morning after rough night. Went with Billy Wilson to look at his farm. Place and stock looking well. June 20 Mon. Mrs & Miss Brown and Mrs Cyril Bartholomew up to see Shirley. June 22 Wed. Jack's birthday - gave him a tomahawk. Shirley and I caught B.45 train to Palmerston Nth Show - big crowd there. Football Te Aute 23 Wanganui College 6. Returned by 6.45 pm. train. Sawtell met us with his tin Liz, our Maxwell being overhauled. Johnny stayed at Mrs Stewarts all night. June 23 Thurs Drove phaeton with Shirley to Levin - meeting at school in connection with Prince of Wales birthday. Afternoon tea with Helen. Shirley went visiting. Home at dark. June 29 Tues. Fine after a very hard frost. Brought car back from Sawtell. June 30 Thurs In evening went to Nikau dance. Had puncture in Queen St. Went back to Willie Stewarts and left car there. Willie kindly offered to drive us to town. Clifford brought us home about 1 am. John stayed with Aunt Bowles. July 1 Fri. Went over to Stewarts in phaeton and mended tyre. Shirley drove car home. July 10 Sun. In afternoon drove down to see Mr & Mrs W.M. Beckett, stayed to tea and went to Church of England. July 11 Mon. Drain from house became blocked - had some trouble it out but finally made a good job by scalding it out. Mary Denton arrived from Wanganui. Shirley met phaeton as front wheel of car was punctured. July 12 Tues. After sale went with Hodge to see BIenkhorn re survey boundary, taking map with us. In evening all went to Male Choir concert in People's Theatre. Fair audience and fair concert. Choir items not too good. July 13 Wed. Mary and Shirley walked to Adkins. Mary stayed all night. July 14 Thurs Another puncture to mend. Shirley and Mary went to town and brought back Mrs Percy to Mrs Vickers house. Big crowd there, had an enjoyable evening. Johnny stay at Mrs Becketts for night. July 15 Fri. Very heavy showers during day. Shirley took Mary to New Plymouth train - went to Wellington. July 16 Sat All went to Levin. Jack and I went to football Levin beat Hui Mai 6-3. Springboks played drawn game with Taranaki. July 17 Sun. Wet morning. Billy Wilson brought Mr Cutfield to see us in afternoon. Stayed to tea and evening. July 19 Tues. Helped with washing. Later went to sale, Shirley visited Mrs Bryson and Mrs Tom Bevan. July 21 Thus In evening Ken Biss and Beryl Tully came for tea and evening. I took Willie Stewart and L.G. Adkin to Lecture re lucerne. July 22 Fri. Shirley and I to Wellington on Napier Mail. Stayed at Fern Hill. July 23 Sat. W.H.D. George and I walked to Athletic Park to see Wellington v. Springboks (Sth. Africa). Tremendous crowd, estimated, 30,000. Good seat on bank. Big match commenced in howling southerly. Game ended 8-3 in favour S.A. In evening Shirley and I went to Opera House to see The Yeoman and the Guard - very good. July 24 Sun. Shirley, George and I went to St. Peters church in morning. Afternoon "Allenby" Dentons came to Fern Hill. In evening Shirley and I returned home by Auckland Express. July 25 Mon. Went over to Anderson's (my neighbour) first thing – my bull had got into their back paddock - took down wires and soon had him home again. Drove to Levin in dray taking dining room table to Joplin Stallard & Carmichael auction room for sale. Went to station and brought back Shirley's round oak extension table made by Collie of Wellington. July 25 Tues. Harry George rang after the sale – had sold the two jersey heifers for me for 15/-/- to Mrs Pinney Queen St. July 28 Thurs Shirley and I drove to Boyds Training Farm - clearing sale of cows etc. Shirley went to Levin. Drove back with Adkins and met Shirley. July 29 Fri. Shirley and Helen went to dance recital by Misses Kimbell. I looked after house. July 30 Sat. Percy Rouse arrived at dark and took away 4 hives of bees. August 2 Tues. Shirley and I drove to town. Priced several matteresses at Local shops. Shirley called on Mrs Bryson. Meeting of Farmers Union in afternoon after sale. Heavy thunderstorm and rain. August 5 Fri. Mrs Beckett and Winnie arrived from Waimate on their way to Rotorua where Noel has just undergone operation for finger. Shirley met Napier Mail train and brought them home. August 6 Sat. Shirley took ladies to town. August 7 Sun. Afternoon we drove to see Maxwell, then Becketts where we stayed to tea. August 10 Wed. In evening I went with Willie and Adkins to indignation meeting re cancelling of race permit to local club - good crowd, decent meeting. August 11 Thurs In evening we left Mother and Johnny in charge of the house and went out to Mrs Tully's taking Winnie, Helen and Mrs Vickers with us - surprise party for Mr and Mrs Tully's silver wedding anniversary. August 12 Fri. Guy Tully and Miss Frances Thorpe for tea and evening. August 13 Sat. Johnny and I moved all ewes without lambs from terrace to low hill. N.Z. won first test match against Springboks 13-5 in Dunedin. August 14 Sun. Shirley and visitors went to church. I went round the sheep, then rode the bike down to Mary's where we spent day. August 15 Mon. Round ewes before breakfast. Put in all day at Levin school - committee had working bee to clear way macrocarpa hedge in front of school. I took Tommy, and Jack Proctor had his horse so we dragged the trees to back of school, cut them up and burnt them. August 17 Wed. Took the ladies for a walk up to the terrace to see lambs. Half holiday at school - football match in Palmerston Nth Springboks v. Manawatu/Horowhenua (combined) – Springboks 3-0. August 18 Thurs Afternoon visit from Mrs and Miss Armstrong (Timaru) and Mr and Mrs Moorhouse of Foxton. August 19 Fri. George home for 2nd term holidays - Shirley met him off New Plymouth train. In evening Shirley and I went to concert by Melody Four in aid of Levin Band - excellent items. 20 Sat. Went to Levin to football. Picked up ladies from Becketts. August 22 Mon. Percy Port came over in evening - played bridge. Mother and I easily beat Winnie and Percy P. August 23 Tues. Drove to Levin taking Mother and Winnie who stayed at Mary's to catch Auckland Express tonight. Afternoon tea at Mary's. Brought Rex and Maurice home with us. August 24 Wed. George and Rex and Maurice home with us. August 27 Sat. Springboks beat N.Z. 9-5 Second Test in Auckland. August 28 Sun. Drove to Levin and brought back the Beckett family. Took visitors home and George and I went to church. Sept. 1 Thurs In evening went to meeting (lecture) by Mr Mead on 'abortion and mammitis in cows' - interesting and instructive. Sept. 2 Fri. George went round sheep. Shirley went to town to meet Enid home for holidays - looking first rate. Johnny stayed at Becketts. Sept. 3 Sat. Billy Wilson, George and I went to Manakau to see final in football championship Levin v. Hui Mai 3-3 Poor game. I drove Maxwell as Billy's car was punctured. Sept. 4 Sun. Billy Wilson and Amy and family drove up in stayed to tea. Sept. 8 Thurs George's birthday. Sept. 9 Fri. George assisted working on drain and burning rushes. Enid stayed weekend at W.H. Wilsons. Sept. 10 Sat. Went to Levin in evening to see land valuer - reduction of 2/10/- per acre. Sept. 11 Sun. Went to C. of E. and afterwards to dinner at Billy Wilson's. Sept. 12 Mon. Shirley and Enid took George to Napier Mail back to school in Wellington. Sept. 13 Tues. Enid and Shirley visiting Miss Hitchcock. Sept. 15 Thurs Fixed up totara post in trapshed to hold separator. Johnny has sore neck with boil. Sept. 16 Fri. Went to Wellington by Napier Mail. Spent evening at Fern Hill. Sept. 17 Sat. Very wet indeed. Will, George and I went to Athletic Park to see final test between All Blacks and Springboks. Ground covered with water, so drawn game left teams equal in test matches. Back Levin 9.30 pm. Sept. 18 Sun. In afternoon a visit from Mr. Mrs Matheson and Aunt Bowles. In evening Ken Biss and Beryl Tully paid us a visit. Sept. 19 Mon. Fixed up separator - a "Vega" with a 60 gal capacity. Prendeville came over to show me how to work it. Separated in evening. Sept. 20 Tues. Enid went back to school today. Sent first lot of cream to the factory this morning. Percy Port is taking it down for me. Last night Willie Stewart and I went to Levin for a meeting of householders when Mr Bakewell (Inspector) defended the rural course against opinion of local residents. Good meeting and resolution passed urging abolition of rural course and substituting matriculation course. Sept. 21 Wed. In evening went with Willie to "Father and Son" banquet. Speeches by Dr. Gow and Col. Mitchell M.P. - crowded house. Sept. 22 Fri. Found a sick lamb - tried to doctor it with salts, also bled its ear but it died after struggling about an hour. Willie and Mrs Stewart over in afternoon. We opened up the lamb and found its stomach full of white substance like suet. Sent contents of stomach to Gov't expert. Sept.25 Sun. Shirley and I went to Mangahoe with Male Choir party. Heavy showers on trip over, camp in much advanced state since I was last there, Choir gave small concert to small audience. Enjoyable day, home by 6 pm. Shirley walked well. Sept. 30 Fri. Johnny and I put heifer in small yard by the bail without any trouble at night. At night we went to Levin with Billy Wilson. He and I went to interview Park & Best re property at Pouratawhao. Not much hope of any concessions as they seemed right up against it. Oct. 4 Tues. At sale Easton complained of large percentage of Romney Iambs in line bought from me about 2 months ago, so agreec to pay him 5 pound refund on the line in full satisfaction. Later Billy Wilson discussed with me the matter of forfeiture of land Park & Best. Billy decided to quit if possible. Oct. 5 Wed. Helen up to lunch and afternoon. Oct. 7 Fri. Adkin girls over in afternoon. Oct. 8 Sat. Mrs and Miss Hitchcock and family, Miss Ross of Foxton up to spend the day. Shirley drove them home. Oct. 11 Tues. Reinvested war certificates for the children. For 20/14/- bought certificates which will be worth 27 pounds in 5 years. Deposited certificates with Mr Hawke, Manager of Bank of Australasia. Shirley went to see Mrs Bartholomew. In evening we went with Mrs and Miss Stewart to hear Alexander Watson - very good. Oct. 12 Wed.

Went to funeral of Mr Richard Prouse. Went down with Shirley who met Mother and Winnie by slow train from Linton.

Oct. 21 Fri. Very hot day with heavy thunder showers. Carted pungas and floored the sheep pen at woolshed. Oct. 22 Sat. Afternoon I drove with Willie Stewart and W.G.A. to funeral of Mrs Tomblinson. Afternoon tea at Beckett's. Johnny stayed there till Mon. Oct. 23 Sun. Afternoon the ladies walked over to Percy Port’s milking machine. Oct. 26 Wed. Shirley and I walked over to Ron Hodge's, brought back 3 ewes with 4 lambs. Clifford came over and helped me dock 31 lambs, some of them pretty big. Oct. 27 Thurs Beautiful day. We all went by car to the Hokio for the day, picked up Mrs Bartholomew and Betty. Had a very enjoyable day - caught a few whitebait, collected some pipis. Oct. 29 Sat. Mrs Beckett and Winnie went to Levin with Shirley to stay at Stuckey St. Mrs B. badly bitten with mosquitoes. Nov. 4 Fri.


Johnny went with Percy Port to Y.M.C.A. - brought Maurice BecKett home with him. Nov. 5 Sat. Willie Stewart and family came over in evening for Guy Fawkes celebration. Nov. 6 Sun. Drove to Levin in afternoon to Becketts and brought Mrs B. and Winnie home again. Nov. 7 Mon. We all went to town in afternoon. I got woolpacks and Benzine etc. ready for shearing. Mr and Mrs W.G. Vickers up in evening - bridge. Nov. 9 Wed. Willie Stewart, Les Adkin, Mr Lancaster started to climb ranges From Otaki. Nov. 10 Thurs Mother and Winnie left for Wellington to stay at Fern Hill. Shirley and I went to Y.M.C.A. concert. Sang in male choir two items. Nov. 12 Sat. Went to town in evening. Took Mrs MacIntyre with us to see War Trophies. Nov. 14 - 19 Mon-Sat. Trouble with shearing machine, had to get parts from Auckland. Nov. 21 Mon. Shirley commenced today to supervise examinations at Levin school away all day. Left everything ready for shearers. Nov. 28 Mon. Shirley still supervising. I went down with Willie and W.G.A. to Levin to take part in reception for Lord Jellicoe. Good crowd of local residents and successful function. Lady Jellicoe opened Horticultural Show. Willie, the nippers and I had lunch with Billy Wilson intending to see aeroplane in afternoon but it failed to turn up, so home about 2 pm. Nov. 29 Tues. Took Holstein cow recently purchased from Ransfield back to yards, as she is not up to guarantee. Handed her to Rhodes and Ransfield refunded me 8 pounds. Nov. 30 Wed. Mort Ryder came to take delivery of 96 fats marked by Mr Vickers on Saturday. Dec. 2 Fri. Fine and very hot. Willie Stewart came to help me dock late Iambs. Dipped all Romney lambs in afternoon. Dec. 3 Sat. Went to town with Shirley. She called on Mrs Bryson. Dec. 4 Sun. Billy Wilson came up to ask me to help him muster his sheep for shearing. We all went in car. Dec. 6 Tues. Edith and Kate arrived from Wellington. Shirley and I drove down to meet them. Dec. 9 Fri. Fine and very hot. Shirley and I went by train to Palmerston Nth, Helen with us. Met Enid in Palmerston Nth as she is returning from school. Did a good deal of shopping, an enjoyable day. Home at 4.40 pm. Dec. 10 Sat. Jack away at Paikak. - C. of E. picnic. Dec. 11 Sun. All motored to Kuku to see Tom and Mrs Fowles in afternoon. Dec. 3 Tues. Enid and I drove to Levin in afternoon to do some business. Fixed up Accident Insurance 12/-. Dec. 14 Wed. Edith having bad time with her bad leg. Dec. 17 Sat. Shop day for Levin school. Went down to meet George home for holidays 10.45 train. Bought load of vegs. from the shop. Afternoon we all went to take Edith and Kate to Napier Mail for Wellington. Dec. 21 Wed. George helping Percy Port with hay. In afternoon I took Shirley to Levin school break-up. Afterwards to afternoon tea with Mr and Mrs McIntyre who will be retiring next year. Took Mrs Vickers with us. Afterwards went to Becketts, then home. Dec. 22 Thurs

Family presented me with a birthday cake.

Dec. 24 Sat. George and I went on harrowing. Finished about 2.30. We all went to town for Xmas Eve. Big crowd out. Dec. 25 Sun. Xmas Day. Intended to go to church but Shirley not feeling very well, so stayed home all day. - cool - had fire. Dec. 26 Mon. Very wet day. Played cards with boys in morning. George and Enid went to a party at Mrs Swainson's at Manakau. Dec. 27 Tues. Enid staying with Mrs Vickers at the beach. George and Jack went out for the day. Very hot at midday. I was rolling paddock - saw dog among sheep. Got gun from house after some hunting came on black short haired dog, but he dodged away in fern so lost sight of him. Dec. 28 Wed. Carpentering Enid's bedroom. Enid returned from beach. Dec. 29 Thurs Ground too wet to roll so went to beach. Up early and got work done. George left about 6 am. to go to Mangahoe with Norman Vickers and young Gorringe - was home at 6 pm. We had a very enjoyable day at beach. Picnicked at Mrs Vickers whare. Dec. 30 Fri. Walker up papering spare room and Enid's room. Dec. 31 Sat. Wettest day of the season. Rain without a break for over 24 hours. Creeks in high flood.

10 Jan. Jen so much improved that we decided to make the trip to Masterton, although we had practically given up the idea last night. Leslie & Clare travelled with us & we had a splendid trip, the weather being perfect. The country on the Wairarapa side looked very dried up. After we passed Woodville. Farms on the whole looked' old fashioned — stock looked well. Arrived Masterton. Laurie & Miss Daniells met us & invited us to afternoon tea. Laurie, Les & I walked while the ladies drove. Afterwards Mother Jen C I were driven by Jerry Daniells in the phaeton to see Mrs Cave who is an invalid. Went to Hotel (Prince of Wales) to tea & bed early very tired. Frank & Ethel Morley arrived late train from Wanganui 11 Jan. Beautiful day. Round town in the morning. Edith Kate & Rob arrived from Wellington & had dinner with us. Laurie's wedding took place 1.30pm & was very successful in every way. Nellie looked well. Laurie acquitted himself with credit. Bridal party left for Carterton by motor car accompanied by 2 other cars & travelled to Wellington. On the car's return Edith, Clare Jen & I were taken in Mr Daniell's motor car for a drive round the country & we had a most enjoyable time. The Daniells were most kind & hospitable. After tea we returned to Daniel's' for a couple of hours. 12 Jan. Fine. Went for drive in Daniel's' phaeton in morning & saw Mother & Frank away to Wanganui by midday train. Afternoon we left for Wellington after having afternoon tea at Daniells. Enjoyed train journey over Rimutakas although it was very windy. This was my first trip through the Wairarapa for about 24 years. Stayed at "Fern Hill" all night 14 Jan. Returned home by first train. Found that the children had been very sick while they were staying at Adkins during our absence. George also suffering from diarrhoea. However Mr Adkin got some medicine from Remington & they improved considerably & seemed fairly well when we arrived home. Mrs Peter Stewart died on Friday aged about 75. 17 Jan. Took dray to Levin & left it at Weraroa. Mr Adkin & R.R. Harris & we all drove down to Manakau to Mr Robert Bevan's to pick out the Shropshire rams we bought from him at 3gns. Rams proved to be a very fair lot. Mr Adkin took 6, I took 4, & Harris 2. Mr Bevan very kindly took us round his farm & showed us all his improvements which are all first class. In fact he has about the nicest laid out place in the district. We all stayed to dinner & left about 2pa. On the way home I got the dray & brought home new duchess that we recently purchased in Wellington. Mr A. kindly helped me unload at home. Discovered a large crack in side of duchess - evidently had bad knock on one of legs 28 Jan.

(Saturday) Enid's birthday. She had small party of girls in afternoon 1 Feb.

Fine & hot. We all drove down to the Horowhenua A & P Show held on Race Course. Very successful turnout. 2 Feb.

I drove with Mr Adkin to Show Ground to local Ram Fair about 200 rams offered & nearly all sold. I bought 1 four tooth ( reswell) at 1¼ gns, 1 two tooth (Bryant) at 25/- 1 four tooth (Bryant) 30/-, 1 six tooth (Bryant) 22/6 Nothing very startling but should improve 6 Feb.

George trod on rusty nail - very sore 9 Feb. Agnes Denton paid us a visit. Had news that Norrie Denton seriously ill - operation for appendicitis. Received word from Murray Roberts that my wool was sold at 9¼d - very good prices as market rather depressed. Brokers valuation 8d My reserve 9d. 13 Feb. Hudson sent Jack Oak up with prospective buyer (Mr Field) to look at placeat £20 per acre. I walked up as far as Terrace with them & left them to prowl round by themselves. Mr Field however did not do any business. Mr Hudson however called in evening & asked if he might bring Mr Field up again tomorrow & consented to show them around. 14 Feb. Messrs Hudson & Field came up about 9am & we all walked round the whole place. They left about dinner time & eventually Mr Hudson drove back about 5.30pm & submitted an offer by Mr Field of £18 an acre with £1,000 down. I did not accept but lowered my figure to £8100 in order to get £8000 nett 17 Feb.

Rob arrived from Napier & walked up. 28 Feb.

Afternoon children & I drove to Levin. Posted application for renewal of mortgage to Govt Life Insurance Co. 4 March

Tremendous lot of mushrooms about. I gathered about l bucketsful & we took them to Levin to Mrs Gardener & Mrs Keedwell. 8 March Hudson up with gentleman named Cottle looking at farm. Offered at £20 terms or £8000 cash 14 March

T.A.B. Hudson called again making an offer for the property of £18/17/6 for Mr Field which I declined as £19 is my bed-rock. 17 March

Hudson sent letter from Field saying that he could not increase his offer to £19. Decided not to sell. 20 March Afternoon J. Oak arrived with note from T.A.B. Hudson s aying that if I would accept Field's offer of £18/17/6 he would halve the loss £52/10/- with se, his share being £26/5/-. His commission would then be 53/15/-. The amount that I would receive for the property would be £7873.15.0 nett instead of £7900 nett. I decided to accept if suitable arrangements can be made re deposit etc. £1000 down, £1000 or more in Sept. next. Mr Hudson decided to go to Johnsonville to interview Mr Field Tuesday morning & let me know the result on Wednesday morning. 22 March Mr Hudson sent 4.00 up to say that Mr Field would not decide re my property as he was to inspect a place at Manakau. 1 decided not to deal with him at the price £18/17/6 as he does not seem to be able to make up his mind. 31 March Signed renewal of mortgage £3,000 at 4¼% for 5 years, cost 13/6 10 April Mrs Field & daughter accompanied by young Bramley drove along to look at house but as Jen was not well I declined, informing them that I had raised the price to £20 13 April (Thursday) Went to Adkins to enquire after Gil who met with a very serious accident on Monday being thrown from his horse up the Ohau River. Dr Trail attended him — he was unconscious for 9 hours. 21 April Vincent called re property so I took a walk round with him — offered at £20, one third cash 26 April Drove to Levin to vote for Harbour Bd. Borough Election on. 6 old councillors elected, also Rich Prouse, Blenkhorn & Matheson 12 May Harris kindly drove the girl (to help in the house) up 29 May Flare up with domestic. Jen upset. Stayed about house 31 May About 7.45pm Jen felt very unwell so I walked to Becher's and his boy Arthur kindly offered to ride to Levin for Mrs Edwards who eventually arrived here at 10.30pm. being driven up by W.H. Wilson no other conveyance being available 1 June Drove to Levin & took Hilda Driver, the domestic, home again. Mrs Edwards decided to stay with us so we are not getting more help at present. 5 June Children "so—so" Dosed with castor oil 22 June (Thursday) Wet night & early morning. Had to get up at 2am. & ride for Dr Kennedy as Jen was feeling bad. Dr arrived about 4am. Jen had a very hard time & baby boy was born at 5.50 after having to be assisted. Nurse weighed the baby & he proved to be 11lbs which is an extraordinary weight. Jen was very much exhausted. Stayed at home all day as I was very tired. Today is the date of the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary. Big demonstrations taking place everywhere. Mrs Edwards stayed all night. 23 June Jan feeling better today, but suffering a lot from after pains. Baby lusty lunged 24 June Had to make a hurried visit to Levin to fetch Dr. as Jen had very bad night & had very high temperature. Jen seemed better in afternoon 26 June

When I came home from moving ewes, found Jen had a bad turn so went to Levin to Doctors who came up about 7pm & treated her. Had bad night. 27 June Doctor paid us a visit. I had to go to Levin for medicine to steady Jen's nerves which are very much upset & causing us soLe anxiety. Jen & nurse had another bad night. Children over at Adkins. 28 June Dull, showery, very cold. Did not go away from the house all day. Sat with Jen all afternoon & she is feeling such better tonight. Children returned from Adkins. 29 June Fine & cold. Jen very much the same & very despondent. Afternoon Mrs McLeavey & Mrs Adkin & Dora drove over & Saw Jennie for a few minutes. Drove to town for bottle for baby. 30 June Jennie much brighter & baby had good night. New bottle suited him well. About house all day. 1 July Jen very much the same. Rode to Levin in evening for medicine. Dr Kennedy's last visit for the present 2 July

Jen got up for a little while. Children over to see her both looking bonny. Baby getting on very well. 3 July

Jen not quite so bright, very listless 4 July

Sat with Jennie for a little while but found her hardly as well so I rode to Prouse's to ring up Dr Kennedy who arrived up about 11 o'clock. Jen seemed a little better so after consulting doctor, we decided to move her to Mrs Edward's private house in order to give her a change. Doctor considered there would be no danger in doing so. We fixed up the phaeton so that Jennie could lie down. Poor old girl had rather a rough trip down but stood it very bravely & on arrival there, walked down the passage to the bedroom. She went straight to bed and although very weary, seemed none the worse for it. The doctor called in afternoon & was very pleased with her. Jen had a fairly easy night but did not sleep much. 5 July Fine nice sunny day. I left Mrs Edwards about 10.30 & drove home. Back to Levin at dark. Jen had passed a good day. Doctor did not want her disturbed so I did not go to see her very much - just for a little while at intervals. Had a fairly good night. 6 July Jen seemed much brighter in the morning. She read letters from Mother & Edith & enjoyed them also read a little from a book. I left at 9.30 intending to stay at home overnight. Doctor called just after 10 o'clock & after examining Jennie found that, while she was much more cheerful, her pulse was weakening. He therefore decided to call Dr Huthwaite in consultation & sent word to me by Clifford, to come down. I arrived about 1.15 & found both doctors there. I was not allowed to go in immediately but while I waited, I heard my dear girl talking to the nurse quite plainly. After about 10 minutes the doctors called me in & told me Jennie's condition was very serious & I was too stunned to realize what they really meant. Alas, before we had finished speaking there was a call from the nurse & I rushed to the bedside to find that my dearest girl was dying. I tried to rouse her but it was too late for she passed quietly away without knowing me. Oh the agony I suffered. I shall never forget it. The sad news soon spread around the town & very soon I had many friends who so kindly sympathised with me. I sent up for my dear children & Mr Adkin brought them down in the evening. The poor little ones, how they sobbed for their dear Mother. We all slept together, trying to comfort each other. 7 July Dull & cold. Stayed in house all day. Edith & Percy arrived from Wellington by first class train and stayed with me all day. Will Wilson drove us home in afternoon to get a few things & the children returned to "Cheslyn Rise". Frank arrived by 4 train and Rob. 7.45. We stayed at the Arcadia until 9 o'clock & then all walked round for an hour. Frank stayed with me all night. 8 July (Saturday) Fine but dull. Laurie came up by 10 train. Alb. Kellow drove over from Foxton & stayed with me. Many kind friends sent wreaths. The funeral took place at 2 o'clock, the bearers being Alb. Kellow, R.G. Denton, P.N. Denton, W.G. Adkin, L.A. Denton, & Leslie Adkin. There were a great many friends who followed to the cemetery where the burial service was conducted by Revs. T.J. Jones & Rev. Compton of the Church of England (Jennie's Church). Rob, Percy & Laurie returned to Wellington & Frank Edith & I went to "Cheslyn Rise" for the night. 9 July Called to see baby, Jack, at Mrs Edwards. He had a slight cold but is otherwise very well. Frank & Edith came round to my place at dinner time and I followed in the evening with the children. 10 July Very wet day. Frank returned to Wanganui Creeks very high - biggest flood for years. 15 July Drove to Levin & took some flowers down to my dear girl's grave. Very glad to find that the wreaths had scarcely faded. Drove to Mrs Edwards' & Edith made arrangements re short clothes for baby. Another big batch of letters of sympathy. 17 July

Went to Mrs Edwards'. Baby has been very restless and does not take his bottle very well. 22 July

Afternoon drove to cemetery with some flowers. Mrs Edwards came back with us bringing Jack with her to spend a few days. 25 July Took Mrs Edwards & Jack home again. Registered baby. Paid Mrs Edwards 31 July

Mother arrived from Wanganui 4.45 train. Mr Adkin drove her home. 1 Aug.

Drove Mother, Edith & children to Levin to see Jack 7 Aug. Drove to Levin. Engaged Miss Bowles as housekeeper 14 Aug. Will came up in morning after dinner, we drove to Adkins to see Annie. Dora in bed with measles. Mother and Will returned to Wellington 4.40 train. 18 Aug. Drove to cemetery with flowers. Miss Bowles came up today to commence housekeeping 20 Aug. Afternoon Alb. Kellow & his bride-to-be paid us a visit. Rode up and stayed for an hour or so. 21 Aug.

Edith returned to Wellington 25 Aug. Mr Smart brought up a prospective buyer for my property. They took a good walk round & he seemed well pleased with the place. I am offering the place at £20 - Mr Smart agreed to commission of 1¼% 29 Aug.

Albert Kellow married Miss Violet Nye at St Mary's Church. Miss Bowles & children went to Church. 4 Sept. Kingston of Dalgety's brought Mr Buchanan to look at property. They seemed well-pleased with what they saw. Offered at £20 as before. They will communicate with me shortly. Went to Levin on bike to bank & to cemetery. 8 Sept.

George's birthday. Had party of children - Adkins & Wilsons 10 Sept. Miss Bowles drove to Mrs Edwards after dinner to stay all night to get a few ideas regarding Jack who is to come home tomorrow for good. 11 Sept.

Jack's first night home. Behaved well on the whole. Bed early, dead tired. 22 Sept.

Went to Levin Sale, the first of the weekly series started by Abraham & Williams. Good entry & successful sale. 29 Sept.

Letters from Mowbray & Violet 9 Oct.

Went to hear Mr Massey's political speech in Levin. Big crowd & successful evening 10 Oct.

Evening, went to hear No-Licence lecture by Mrs Barton a Glasgow lady. Big house & good lecture. 17 Oct. Took the phaeton to Levin for Mrs Matheson to drive back in to stay with Miss Bowles while I an in Wellington. Missed both express trains so had to down by slow train arriving in Wellington at 10.45. All in bed when I reached "Fern Hill" 18 Oct. Walked to cemetery in morning. Frank & Ethel arrived from Sydney on their way home from their wedding tour. Will, Frank & I went to Newtown Zoo in afternoon. Family party in the evening. Rob & Carrie, Will, Frank & Ethel, W.G. & Annie, Percy & Alice, Edith, Kate & myself & of course, Mother. Laurie away in Wanganui & Mowbray in Sheffield England. Spent a pleasant evening, talking mostly. 19 Oct.

Afternoon went with Kate & Edith to visit Alice & youngsters. Evening meeting of the elder male members of the family with Mother re business. 20 Oct.

Mother & I went for a train ride as far as Wadestown. Afternoon Hardie Shaw took photo of family. Adkin & I came home by 4 train. 2 Nov. Mr Adkin, Les & 1 went to Palmerston Show. Enjoyable day. Looked at shearing machines. Adkin thinking of buying one. 7 Nov. Met 7.45pm train & brought Edith and Norrie Denton home to stay for a while. 8 Nov.

Viv & Cliff over with fireworks. 11 Nov.

Edith & Norrie returned to Wellington 15 Nov. Tea in Levin, 1st Parade territorials. Capt. Guy Powles in charge. He suggested that I go into the volunteering again as an officer. 27 Nov. Took Enid & George with me to Palmerston where I went to see Harris re headstone. Decided to have the scroll pattern, concrete wall with 1 iron railing 29 Nov. Public Library opened. 7 Dec. Election Day. Field headed poll, Robertson (Labour) Monkton & Byron Brown in that order. Stayed in town past midnight watching returns. Opposition winning seats. Big vote for "Dominion" Prohibition but not 3/5 majority. Local option unchanged. 14 Dec. Election day of second ballots. Went to town to hear results. Robertson beat Field by 21 votes. Reform Party apparently has a majority against Ward. 22 Dec. Enid, George & I went to Wellington by 4 train. Miss Bowles & Jack stayed in Levin 23 Dec. to Jan 2, 1912 Spent holiday in Wellington

Jan. 08 Went to Wool Sales in Town Hall Wellington. First time that I have attended large sale so I was very interested. Prices were down considerably. I sold my fleece wool at 10d. although brokers valuation was 10½d to 10 and 3/4d. Bellies brought satisfactory price of 7 and 3/4d. Jan. 09 Fine. Enid, George & I returned home by Napier mail. Enid & George drove to Hokio Beach with Mr Clark in evening to spend a few days there with Miss Bowles, Amy, W.H. Wilson & children. Jan. 12 (Sunday) Up late. Biked to beach & got there at dinner time. Stayed all night. Jan. 13


Fine. We all left the beach for home. Had lunch in Levin. Home about 4pm. Jan. 16 Mustered ewes in early evening in preparation for Vickers drafting. However got word from him to say that he could not draft on account of strike of slaughtermen. Baths in evening with Clifford and George. Jan. 19 Stayed about home all day. Went to Church in evening on bike. Had first puncture. Jan. 20


Evening party of children for Enid's benefit 3 Adkins, Amy Denton, 2 Wilsons & Billy Jan. 29 Fine. Horowhenua A & P Show. All went down. Successful Show. Mrs Edwards to tea. Concert in evening. Feb. 01 Caught 4.45 train & went as far as Paekakariki taking bike. Rode back to Paraparaumu to R.R. Harris's fruit farm & stayed all night. Feb. 02 (Sunday) Beautiful day. Mr Lawson drove Harris, self & Mr Barnett (also staying with Harris) to beach where we had a swim. Loafed about all day. Mrs Harris & I went to Church of England in evening. Feb. 03 Fine. Came home by Napier mail. Met Laurie & Nell on train & travelled up with them as far as Levin. Feb. 05 Mr & Mrs Grundle, Simpson & Miss Palmer to tea & evening. Feb. 06 Mrs McLeavey, Mrs McIntyre paid us a visit. Baths in evening. Mr Stewarts. Feb. 09 (Sunday) Fine. Up late. S. Mackenzie & family up in afternoon & to tea. Went to Church (Presbyterian). Feb. 11 Bad news received of Scott's Antarctic Expedition, most of party of which perished in a blizzard in March last. Feb. 12 Afternoon Annual Sports of Swimming Club. Very successful gathering in spite of rough weather. Took about £111—/— at gate. Fryberg won 2 big races & 2nd in third race. I managed to "pull off" diving competition. Feb. 19 Fine & very hot. Afternoon went to Gymkhana organised by ,Beautifying Society. Big crowd & fair success. Swimming events at baths caused big interest about 250 people being in baths as spectators. Went to Mr Simpson's (Jun) to tea & evening. -- Feb.


Fine up at 4am. Took 20 fat ewes & 51 fat lambs to station & trucked to Ngahauranga. Mar. 03 Miss Bowles sister Mrs Reynolds of Christchurch paid her a visit. Stayed all night. Mar. 06 Fine, up at 6am. Yarded young ewes. Mouthed, marked, dagged & pared the feet of 262 four & B tooth ewes & put 5 ewes & 1 wether in with old ewes, making total old ewes 227. Put straggler lambs in cow paddock. Good day's work. Knocked off at 6.30pm. Mar. 16 (Sunday). Enid George & went to Cheslyn Rise to dinner. Miss Bowles to Levin. I biked to Levin to cemetery in afternoon. Arcadia to tea, Presbyterian Church in evening. Mar. 20 Fine. Odd jobs in morning. Left for Hastings by 11.40am train. Travelled with Edith to stay with Laurie. When just past Woodville luggage van caught fire & was completely destroyed with all contents. All Napier & Hastings luggage lost. Edith lost all her clothes & jewellery valued at £36. Arrived at Laurie's place to find house only half finished but made ourselves comfortable. Mar. 21


Good Friday. Fine. Baths. Loafed about Hastings. Mar. 22


Fine & very hot. All went to Napier. Attended swimming sports at Napier Baths. Very good sport. M. Champion competing. Mar. 23 (Sunday) Cold southerly wind. Edith & I went to Church of England in morning & I went with Laurie & Nell to Wesleyan Church in evening. Mar. 24


Easter Monday. Windy & cold. Went to Havelock in motor bus in afternoon.
Laurie & I walked up hill. Bike ride round Frimley in evening. Mar. 25 Beautiful day. Laurie & I biked out to Clifton & then on to Cape Kidnappers to see gannets. Took about 2 hrs. to get there, the last hour being along the beach. Had to strike low tide to get along under the cliffs. A most enjoyable ride. Huge cliffs 300ft high skirted the shore. Found a fair number of gannets on the rock & walked right in amongst them. Got back without mishap. Called at Ed James' where & had afternoon tea. Home at dark. Mar. 26 Fine. Edith & went for a motor ride in Ed James' car round Havelock for about 1i hours very pretty & enjoyable. Afternoon biked to Taradale & back to Hastings via Fern Hills. Passed through some very nice country & saw some good sheep. Most enjoyable ride. Home at dark. Mar. 27 Hot day. Started to bike to Taradale about 9.30am but had a blow-out when I had travelled 3 miles so had to return to Hastings for a new tyre. Got a fresh start at 11.30am & reached Taradale at 12.30 & watched sheep dog trials for 2 hours. Very interesting. Some very good dogs there. Met Smith who used to work up Gladstone Rd for Styles. Rode on to Napier through Greenmeadows Port Ahuriri. Visited the Spit & breakwater. Caught the 5pm train home to Hastings at dark. Mar. 28 Fine but windy. Edith & spent whole day in Napier visiting different places by coach. Too dusty to be really enjoyable. Went to competitions in afternoon. Mar. 28 Dull & showery. Went by train to Waipukerau to visit Will Paterson. Spent all afternoon with him - yarning. Travelled with Miss Daniells back to Hastings. Mar. 30 Fine. Edith, Miss Daniells & went to Wesleyan Church in morning. Went home through Racecourse - found gate locked & had to jump fence as caretaker refused to open gate. Home rest of day. Mar. 31 Fine, came home by mail train. Left Edith at Lucy Dixon's where Kate is staying. Enjoyed train journey but like my own part of the country best. Hawkes Bay country scorched up while Manawatu beautifully green. Apl. 12 Went to Levin to Farmers Union in afternoon & Stewarts to tea; evening Big shock of earthquake at 7.10pm. Man killed at Masterton. Battleship "New Zealand" arrived at Wellington. First dreadnought presented to the Empire by the Dominion. Apl. 15 Went to picnic given to sailors of HMS. New Zealand at Levin Racecourse. About 250 sailors there. Very successful turnout. Horse race with sailor jockeys caused great amusement. Apl. 19 Enid George. & I went to Wellington by Napier Mail. Stayed at Rob's instead of "Fern Hill". Apl. 20 (Sunday) Beautiful day. Church morning & evening. Took children round the wharves in afternoon to see crowds going to warship. Apl. 21 Dull & rather cold. In morning Agnes & visitor, Enid George & I , went to Zoo to see young lions. We all (Carrie & Amy included) went to "Kirks" to lunch & went out by 1 o'clock boat to HMS New Zealand. Had a good look round the warship & did not get back to shore till 5pm. The 12 inch guns were perhaps the most interesting, also the 4 inch were very natty. Saw pretty well everything & we all enjoyed it immensely. Evening at Carrie's. Apl. 22 Beautiful day. Enid, George & I came back by New Plymouth mail. Children went straight to school. I biked home. Apl. 23 Fine. Drove in phaeton to Adkins & brought Edith over for day. Did a few odd jobs. May & wife turned up to look at property & took a walk up hill. Took Edith back to Adkins about 9pm. Apl. 28 Evening - election of school committee. Old committee excepting 3, put right out. Apl. 29


Evening went to Levin to first meeting of men's choir. Felt rather at sea but enjoyed it on whole. Apl. 30 Land sale of Halls. Kuku land. Top price £55 per ac. Average £48. May 04 Went to hear Bishop of Wellington induct new minister May 08 Evening. Went to Mrs McKenzie's. Music & Spiritualism by Burns family. May 11 Miss Bowles & children went to Church. Afternoon, Miss Bowles & Enid drove to Stewarts to "doctor" the baby. She eventually stayed all night. Enid George & I went to Adkins for night. May 13 Packed & sent away case of apples to "Fern Hill". Picked bulk of apple crop & put in dairy. Male choir in evening. May 23 Went to Mathesons to tea & with them to YMCA Debate. Lost overcoat. May 25 Matheson & family came up & spent the day here. Took a walk on terrace in afternoon. Wesleyan Church. May 26 Went to Matheson's in evening & played 500. June 1


Miss Palmer up to dinner & tea. Biked to Church. June 5 Choir practice of Druids in evening. June 6 Druids installation & dance in evening. June 10 Afternoon I went to funeral of Mr Ivor James. Tea at Arcadia & male choir in evening. June 11 Evening went to Catholic concert. Very good. June 15


Mrs Phillips children & I drove to Church in morning. Afternoon rode on bike to Adkins to tea & church. June 18 Went to Palmerston Show. Saw Te Aute v Wanganui football matches. Junior - draw 6 each. Senior W-29 Te Aute 19. Very good game excellent passing. June 19


Took Mrs Phillips back to Mrs Edwards'. June 22 Beautiful day. Jack's 2nd birthday. We all went to Church in morning. Rev. Karl Schmidt missionary from New Britain. All went to Mrs Vincent's to dinner & I stayed to tea & went to Church. Canon Garland on Bible in Schools. June 26 Fine. The sore on my left hand became very painful. The pain seemed to be spreading up my arm so I decided to be careful of it & did not go out to work. Took a walk round the stock. Miss Bowles went to town in afternoon & I looked after Jack. June 27 Fine. Still unable to do much. Slight blood poisoning. June 28


Afternoon I drove to Levin to football. Levin-W (Wanderers?) 10 HuiMai 3. Stewarts to tea. June 29


(Sunday) Fine & frosty. Stayed at home all day. Les came & took photographs of family in afternoon. June 30

Tallied up contract work with Channings.

3 cords of rata at 10/- £1.10.0

185 posts at 33/- per 100 3.1.1

£4.11.1

July 1

Channing brought "plow" & young man from Will Stewarts & commenced to plow for potatoes. Ground turned over splendidly & should grow good crop.

July 5 (Saturday) Town in evening. Practice for quartette. July 6

Fine. Miss Bowles & children went to Church. Afternoon we all drove to cemetery with some violets. This is the 2nd anniversary of dear Jen's death. Went to Adkins for tea & evening.

July 9

Afternoon went down to State Farm with Willie Stewart to see plowing demonstration also contrivance for draining fixed on plow; This did not prove successful as it threw back mould board out of ground.

July 15

Levin Competitions commenced. Went down in evening. Very good.

July 16 (Wednesday)

Afternoon went to competitions & stayed down to tea. Wet evening - poor house. Competed in Male Quartette & won scoring 79 points Feilding 74 pts & Levin No.2 74 pts. Our quartette consisted of Mottershead, Smith, Denton, & Randerson & we sang"The Two Roses".

July 17

Miss Bowles & children spent day at competitions. I took lunch with me B Channings. I commenced to put up fence round potato patch on terrace. Nearly finished posts. Competitions in evening.

July 18

Went to final evening of competitions. All prize winners performed Audiences in Century & Town Halls so we all had to perform twice. Got on fairly well. Dead beat.

July 20 (Sunday)

Wet. Felt very seedy so stayed in bed most of day. Got up about 4pm.

July 25

Went to dance run by Miss Duff. Drove down with Adkins.

July 26

Afternoon Miss Bowles & Enid & George went down to Levin & were vaccinated by Dr Young. I went in evening & was done also. Cards at Mr P. Stewarts.

July 28

Commenced to put up fence for plantation by sheep yards.

July 29

Took dray to Adkins & brought back some pinus insignis which Gil gave me. Spent afternoon planting trees.

July 30

Beautiful day. Planted rest of trees. A few up on low hill & some by woolshed. Went an with fence. Mrs B.R. Gardener up to lunch & spent afternoon here.

July 31

First lamb born today.

Aug. 01

Very wet evening. Went to Miss Duff's dance & got home at 2.30am. Dead beat. Vaccinated arms all getting rather painful.

Aug. 02 Arm very sore. Aug. 04 Planted a few trees in shrubberies. Miss Bowles not at all well — went to bed in afternoon. Children also not well so stayed home from school. All upset from vaccination I think. Arms very swollen. Aug. 05

Fine. Channings came & we sledged out posts (totara) for fencing sections on Winchester Block for L.A. Broadbelt, W.H. Denton, W.H. Wilson. Channings is doing the work, Miss Bowles very seedy. I went to Levin in evening C got certificate for vaccination & went to choir — very wet evening.

Aug. 06 Fine. Did housework practically all day as Miss Bowles too unwell to get up. Children have not been to school for past 3 days. Aug. 07 Fine. Miss Bowles a little better so she got up about 10 o'clock. Could not do much so did a few jobs around house. Or Young called in afternoon to see Miss Bowles. Aug. 09 Fine. Miss Bowles up in morning but very seedy so lay down all afternoon. Morning, children & I mustered ewes with lambs off terrace. Aug. 12 Went to farewell dance to Mrs Matier who is leaving for Wellington. Enjoyable affair. Home 2.30. Aug. 13 Met coach for Shannon 1pm. went up to Competitions. Affair rather countryfied. Our quartette easily beaten. Other YMCA quartette & Presbyterian Quartette in that order. Got off pitch & tenor very nervous. Enjoyable drive home in moonlight, 1.30am. Aug. 15 Planted walnut trees in plantation. Aug. 18 YMCA in evening. Social. Male choir sang three choruses. Aug. 21


Jack vaccinated today. Aug. 22 Miss Bowles took George down to Dr Young to have his tonsils removed. I biked down. George went through the operation well but chloroform made him very sick. He stayed in hospital all night. Visited George in evening & male voice choir. Aug. 23


Afternoon Miss Bowles drove down for George. I pruned apple trees. George fairly well but irritating cough. Aug. 25 Miss Bowles & children went to Plimmerton tonight to stay for a week. Clifford brought phaeton home. Walker commenced to paint house. Price including a few repairs £10/5/-. White sashes & doors picked out in red. Put on first coat today. Aug. 26 Adkins to tea & choir in evening. Tramp steamer "Devon" wrecked at Wellington Heads. Aug. 28 Walker practically finished job. Aug. 29 Male choir at Parker's in evening. Aug. 30


Levin in evening. Aug. 31 Adkins to tea & dinner. Sept.2


Fine. Finished cutting hedges round house, also mowed off moustache while on the job. Male choir & dance in evening. Sept.3 Miss Bowles & children returned home from Plimmerton by 12 o'clock train. Sept.9 Male choir in evening. Fair crowd & good music. Channings took 3lbs butter at 1/- per lb. Sept.12


Rented W.R. Denton's section corner of Queen & Winchester Sts. to Jack Oak at 1/9 per week. Sept.15 Deputation from swimming club waited on Council re: improvements to baths. Brewster, Freyburg & self. Sept.21 George & I went to Church. Mr & Mrs Vincent drove up to Dinner. Sept.29 I paid Channings off for the present & gave extra 1/- per day for fencing as bonus (3 days). Sept.30 Yarded young horse & handled her. Found her very quiet & had no trouble. Got on her back & she took very little notice of it. Male choir & dance (final) in evening Miss Duff's. Oct. 01 Took young horse over to Willie Stewart's & put gear on her & made her drag a log which she did without any fuss. Very quiet indeed. Oct. 09 Got word that Mother & Edith were on their way to Hastings so I biked down to the train to see them. Both looking well. Swimming Club meeting in evening, re-elected vice-captain. Oct.12


Beautiful day. Took children to Church & brought Mr & Mrs Matheson & family home to dinner. Mrs & Miss Gardener, Mrs Marriott drove up in afternoon. Oct. 27 Annie went to station to meet Mother who is on her way back from Hastings & brought her round here where she is staying a while. Oct. 28


Evening concert at Arapaepae by Male Choir. Fair crowd - very successful. I recited "Yarn of Nancy Bell" - (encored) Oct. 29 Evening took Mother to concert in aid of Beach Rd. Packed house. Male choir Quartette Porteous, Smith, Pringle & Denton sang in costume. "The Catastrophe". Went well - encored. Oct. 30 Strike of Wharf Labourers in Wellington - rather serious. Shipping hung up. Nov. 01 Afternoon wept to meeting at Farmers Union re: Wellington Watersiders Strike. I, together with about 30 others volunteered to go to Wellington to help to keep order. Training tomorrow. Nov. 02 Showery. Prepared Swag to take to Wellington. Left by special :train about 4 o'clock. Big crowd to see us off. Arrived in town about 6.30. without any incident. Large escort to meet us. In camp at Mt Cook Barracks soon after 7 o'clock. About 600 mounteds in camp. Nov. 03 Fine. Paraded 600 men on horseback & rode around streets at Mt Cook to exercise horses. Lot of hooting & jeering at us also stone throwing. No accidents. Serious riot in Buckle St. in evening. Turned hose on strikers & afterwards about 100 mounted specials charged the mob. Several revolver shots were fired & three people injured. I was in charge of armed picket stationed at the school. Ball cartridge served out to me. However no use for it as disturbance died out. Nov. 04


Fine. Paraded down town in morning to form escort for new arrivals from Wairarapa. Subjected to a lot of abuse but took no notice. Negotiations for settling the strike failed to come off. Whole squadron on duty in Buckle St till about 10.30. Nov. 05 Fine. Exercised the horses at Lyall Bay in morning. Afternoon the whole camp of 1000 mounted paraded through the town & had a very exicting time. Strikers most abusive & went in for a lot of stone throwing Lot of our men struck & cut about the head. The rearguard suffered mostly & they charged the mob repeatedly & did some damage. Our troop dismounted & cleared a yard by Govt. Railway Dept. Things quietened considerably after this & the work of loading racehorses was successfully accomplished. Rode back to camp about 7.30. A lot of yelling & hustling by the crowd. Nov. 06 Fine. We paraded at Wharf about mid-day & loading was begun by members of new Watersiders Union just formed. Marriott one of new unionists "Specials" allowed to protect themselves against insult & consequently a row took place in Tory St. when our boys badly routed the strikers, several of them being struck. Nov. 07 Both days we paraded at the wharf to protect the shipping. Everything was very quiet. Mounted would not stand any abuse & consequently the strikers became very humble & quiet. Concert by Savage Club in Barracks on Saturday evening (8th). Nov. 09 Fine. Up to 3am. in order to come home by special train. About 150 left camp for different parts. Received 10/- per day for eight days on duty. Arrived in Levin about 10 o'clock. Breakfast at D.S. Mackenzie's - home & drove back into town for Miss Bowles & children. Bed early - very tired. Nov. 14 Went to Levin sale. Met Kellow who is over from Foxton for short holiday. Nov. 15 Levin in evening to Mrs W. Simpsons to see Kellows. Nov. 16 Fine. Miss Bowles & children to Church in morning. Mr & Mrs kellow paid us a visit in afternoon. Church in evening. Nov. 18


Drove Miss Bowles & children to town in afternoon as they are staying at Mrs Simpson's for Anglican Bazaar. Choir in evening. Nov. 20


Fine. Up at 3.30am. & mustered hoggets. Morgan coming to shear tomorrow. Dec. 8


K. McKenzie left property on Gladstone Rd. Dalgety in charge. Dec. 9


Took children to Sunday School Concert. I went to choir Dec. 10 Adkin got away first draft of fat lambs (240) Dec. 12


Afternoon went to Levin to see school sports. Very wet coming home. Dec. 16 Tremendous gale & heavy rain in evening. Rode to Levin. Went to see hypnotic entertainment - very good. Dec. 22


Fine. Kenny McKenzie came to draft lambs instead of Vickets who has unfort­unately lost his little girl by death. Dec. 23


Clifford % I took in hay out of the orchard. Miss Bowles & children went to Wellington. Stewarts to tea. Dec. 24


Fine. Moved stock & took animals to neighbours. Went to Wellington by 4pm. train & spent Christmas at Fern Hill staying there till Mon. 29 December Dec. 29 Fine. Came back by Napier mail Dinner at Mrs P. Stewart's. Home & round stock in afternoon. Met Miss Bowles & Jack at 8 train. Enid & George staying in Wellington a bit longer.

Jan. 1 Thurs. New Years Day. Beautiful weather. Helen Beckett arrived by car and we all went to Waitarere Beach for the day. Very enjoyable - two bathes. Got very sunburnt. Jan. 2 Fri. Commenced to mow hay. Evening bridge at Sid Halls. Jan. 3 Sat

Dull. Took Gwen (Hill), Lois and Anne to Fields train. Gwen went to meet her boy and girls to stay at "Allenville". John and I went to Gimbletts to inspect his mower but could not remedy our trouble. Bowls in afternoon. Jan. 4 Sun. Fine but windy. Finished mowing paddock about 9 am. Bill Fulton, Val Pedersen and I turned previously cut After lunch 2 Newall boys came to assist but as there was no sun we could not cart it. They went home about 2.30 pm. Jan. 7 Wed. Gwen and her young man, Jack Gilbey came up to tea. Played cards in the evening. Jan. 8 Thurs. Bridge at Donnellys. Jan. 11 Sun. Fine. Up late. Afternoon visitors Dr. Hector and Mrs Thompson. (Dr) Mrs Lavender and boy, Mr & Mrs Watson of Palm. Nth., friends of Shirleys. Evening Shirley and I had tea at Mrs H. McLeaveys. Took Dave and Mrs Todd down with us. Jan. 14 Wed. Fine in morning. Had another go at hay. Mr Pedersen, Becher, Bill Fulton, Ray Jones up to assist. Put in a few loads in morning but after dinner heavy rain stopped us. Rod McDonald's funeral. Jan. 17 Sat. I went to bowls. Beaten by Herrick in B grade. Jan. 18 Sun. Shirley went to Wellington with Mrs Dr Thompson. Started 7 am. Children and I loafed about all day. Jan. 19 Mon. Fine, Borrowed 2 sweeps from Cliff and took rest of hay. Val and worked sweeps. Mr Pedersen, Becher on stack - west end of paddock Bill Fulton and John pitching. After finishing stack, carted 3 loads of rakings to shed and finished job. Jan. 20 Tues. I went to town and met Shirley at 4 pm. train and brought her home. Jan. 21 Wed. I hurt my back when lifting a bucket of water so could not do much. Evening Mr & Mrs Watson of Palm Nth. Mrs Lavender and Eric (friends of Shirleys) arrived to spend holiday with us. Spent evening at Mrs Dr Thompsons at bridge. Shirley won. Jan. 22 Thurs. Dull in morning but fine in afternoon. Took visitors up river in morning and to Buller Lake in afternoon. Called at Bowling Green on way home. Visitors left 7.30 pm. Jan. 23 Fri I spent day at Race Course preparing for A & P show. Jan. 24 Sat Bowls in afternoon until topped by rain. Met Molly Denton at 4 pm. train. Jan. 25 Sun. Beautiful day. Mr & Mrs Sievers up for dinner and Charlie & Mrs Collins and Charlie Jnr arrived from south and stayed the night. Jan. 26 Mon. Collins left 9 am. for National Park en route for Auckland. Played bowls in evening. Fletcher and Allan easily beat McKay and Denton in pairs for Junior Ferns. Jan. 27 Tues. Fine. First day Levin Show. I was steward for fat sheep with Frank Kilsby. Shirley and Mrs Crisp in charge of stall. Fair crowd. Jan. 28 Wed. Fine with a few showers. Very cold in afternoon. "People's Day" Quite successful. Took children. Gwen rode 'Jacko' Jan. 31 Sat Afternoon went to Shannon with Jim Smith to play bowls against Shannon Club. Played in rink - Holdaway, Denton, Langeran, Suhan (skip) and we won by 7 points. Four other rinks playing. Evening started swimming races for local club. Good crowd and successful show. Feb. 1 Sun.

Fine. Mamie Hitchcock staying over weekend. About house all day. Molly returned to Wgtn. by evening train. Feb. 3 Tues Heavy earthquake occurred at 11 am. No damage in Levin but Hawkes Bay suffered severely. Napier and Hastings both wrecked with considerable loss of life. all communications cut off. Went to Levin Sale. Stayed in town a little while at bowls. Evening -annual meeting of choral society. Small attendance. Was elected to committee. Feb. 4 Wed. Tried to get some news from Laurie and Nell Sent wire with no result. News from Hawkes Bay very bad. Heavy hail storm. Feb. 5 Thurs. Wire from Daniell at Hastings saying all well. Feb. 6 Fri Shirley went to town to help rest room where the ladies are providing refreshments for Hawkes Bay Refugees. Afternoon I went to meeting called to consider means of relieving distress. Shirley and I both stayed in town and worked at Restroom relieving sufferers. Shut up at 2 am. and arrived home 'dead-beat.' Feb. 7 Sat.

Attended meeting of Manawatu Exec. RU. in morning. Exec. donated 25 pounds to Relief Fund. Afternoon played bowls. Feb. 8 Sun. At home all day. Church of England in evening. Called at Vickers. Feb. 12 Thurs. Went to Levin to see O'Connor re renewal of mortgage. Played Peter Clements at singles and was badly beaten. Feb. 14 Sat. Afternoon I went to meeting addressed by Mr P.J. Small of unemployment Board. Afterwards to bowls when I was beaten by W. Smaill 21 -30. Tea at Smaills. Home late. Feb. 15 Sun Beautiful day. Afternoon visitors Mr & Mrs Small and children. Mr & Mrs J. D. O'Connor and child. Evening went to see Amy Wilson but could not find her_ Afterwards to Mackenzies. Feb. 18 Wed. Fine. Went with team of bowlers to Wgtn. to play Kelburn Club. Drove down with Walter Bull. Played one game in morning and one in afternoon. The rink I was in was beaten both times Kelburn won 11 games to 3. Very enjoyable. Met Fred Pope and Widdop. Had tea at Fern Hill then went to Percys at 10 pm. and stayed all night Feb. 19 Thurs. Interviewed Manager Govt. Life Insurance Dept re reduction of rate of interest on mortgage to be renewed Sept 3 but found that the rate is a fixed one regardless of security. Also saw Murray Roberts and co. re wool Bannister values it at 6 pence to 6 and a half pence. Lunch with W.H. Denton. Home Auckland Express. Evening John Hodder and Beryl and George Wilson and Pat up for bridge. Feb. 21 Sat. Shirley and Mr J.A. Smith in charge of tea at Bowling Green. I played and did fairly well. Met Amy Wilson who was hurt in earthquake at Hastings. Feb. 23 Mon. Evening we went to public meeting re Relief. Put on committee. Feb. 24 Tues. Percy came up from Wellington to stay. Choral in evening. Shirley and Percy to pictures. Feb. 26 Thurs. Dinner time Wattie Booth and little Ann called in on their way to Wellington. Feb. 27 Fri.

Bert Prouse dipping ewes. John and I splitting posts and sledging. Bert visiting Ballingals. Feb. 28 Sat. Fine. Finished rimu posts and battens, cutting firewood. Bowls in afternoon. Party of girls for Lois' birthday. Shirley, Percy and to pictures. March 1 Sun. Afternoon we took Norman with us and went out to his farm. Percy, Norman and I walked right out to totara flat leaving Shirley and Children about halfway out and picked them up on the way back. Home 7 pm. March 2 Mon. Ricked my back so didn't go out again in the afternoon. Took Percy to 5 pm. train. He went down to Paraparaumu to stay with Harry. I went along to the bowling green and afterwards to tea at Hitchcocks. March 3 Tues. to 7 Sat.

Laid up with bad back On Saturday morning Frank and Ethel arrived from Wanganui on their way to Oamaru. Stayed to dinner and left for Wellington 3.30 pm. Amy Wilson came up to stay with us. March 8 Sun. Afternoon we took Amy for a run to Otaki Beach. Very pleasant. Home 7.15 pm. March 11 Wed. Played bowls in afternoon. Should have gone to Foxton. March 15 Sun. Fine, Shirley & I and two girls Lois and Anne went to Church of England. Afternoon we took Amy Wilson and Mamie Hitchcock with us for a run up Muhunoa East Road. March 17 Tues. Went to Levin Sale too late for sheep. Fair line of ewe lambs from Grays, Pukerua sold to Staples at 6/10. I bid on Simcox's steers but was beaten on last bid. March 21 Sat Beautiful day - up at 5 am.. Shirley and I took Maxwell with us to Wanganui where Levin bowling Club visited Wanganui Club in friendly game. Four rinks went I played in rink Lemmon, Denton, Sherwood and Bowater (skip). We played in 2 games and were beaten in each, the second only by 4 points. Had a splendid time. Maxwell stayed with Mrs Barron and Shirley and I with Doc. and Mrs Hedditch who made us very welcome. March 22 Sun. Afternoon we took Hedditch family for a run up the river. Very enjoyable. March 23 Mon. Left Does about 10.30 am. and spent two hours in Wanganui. Picked up Mrs Bowater who came back to Levin with us. Had a blow-out before we left Wanganui and had to buy a new tire (India) and tube from Murray Roberts. 3/151-, where Marjoring Bolton (Doe's step daughter) works. Had good run home leaving Wanganui 2.30 pm. Palm Nth. 4.30 pm. arrived Levin 6.30 pm. in heavy drizzle. March 25 Wed.

I attended meeting of Finance Committee Relief Fund. March 28 Sat Went to bowls in afternoon. Robertson and I played Fletcher and Joe Allen for the Kirk Ferns and were beaten by 20 - 18 after a good game. 4 Otaki rinks visited Levin and were beaten. March 29 Sun. Fine, but dull. Shirley & I took children also Maxwell and children to Hokio Beach. April 3 Fri.

Good Friday. Soaking rain. At home all day. Smaills in evening. April

April 4 Sat Went to bowls in afternoon. Willie Stewart turned up at dinner time and stayed to dinner. Big floods in Hutt, Wgtn. and Otaki. Mr & Mrs Smaill, Mr & Mrs Palmer and Cyril and Maxwell up in evening April 5 Sun. Easter Sunday. Fine but dull. Church of England at 8 am. Also took children to service at 10 am. At home rest of day. Evening Pat Turvey and her sister Doreen up to see us. George Wilson and Miller came up later. April 6 Mon. Easter Monday. Fine but dull. Bill and I spent an hour at bowling green afterwards went to Race Course where sports meeting was held by A. & P. Assn. Shirley and Maxwell in charge of stall. I ran children's races and nail driving competition. Evening Shirley, John and I went to dance by A. & P. Committee. April 7 Tues. Hossack came and took away 19 bales of wool to be offered by Murray Roberts & co. at next Wgtn. sale. April 9 Thurs. I went out canvassing with F. R. Wright on account of Levin Branch F.U. Did not meet with much success - collected only 3 pounds in cash. Went to bowling green and afterwards to tea with A. Hakes Esq. Evening spent at Mrs Sievers where we sampled the cake won by Mrs S. at garden party. April 11 Sat. I went to Levin to meeting of Exec. of Manawatu F. U. 3 delegates from Dairy Framers' Union there and offering to amalgamate with NZFU. Long meeting 3.30 pm. April 12 Sun. Mr & Mrs H.A. Robertson and family paid us a visit in afternoon. I took them home about 6 pm. April 14 Tues. Fine. Shirley & I took Maxwell and Cyril (Bartholomew) out to see Norman Vickers plowing with tractor on T.G. Vincent's property, Plow did excellent work. Went to Levin sale. Things rather better. April 16 Thurs. Katie over from 'Cheslyn Rise'. Shirley and Maxwell chaperoned John's dance. April 17 Fri. I went to town in afternoon to bank and afterwards to bowls. Wellington Wool Sales (last) on today. I offered 12 bales - last years fleece, also 19 bales this year's wool. Received wire 7 pm. saying hogget wool (4 bales) sold 4 pence. Ewe fleece passed six and three quarter pence. April 18 Sat.

Fine, bowls in afternoon. Shirley went to opening of Golf Season. Presented with 2 cups. April 19 Sun. Fine, afternoon Mr & Mrs Smaill and Mrs Hitchcock, Mamie and Misses Webb and Armstrong visited us. April 22 Wed. I went with bowling team to Foxton - Bill Clark, Dempsey, Denton, and Robertson trying to win Autahau Feathers but were easily beaten. Their skip Mattar very good. April 24 Fri.

Fine. John away at Feilding all day, Went up with Ray Brown to High School Agricultural Show. April 25 Sat Anzac Day. Attended Service in afternoon. April 26 Sun. Fine but cold. Mr & Mrs Frank Routley and Mrs Smith (Cheslyn Rise) up to see us in afternoon. In evening Mr & Mrs J.A. Smith and Ev. Jack up to see us. April 27 Mon Bill Fulton came over with plow and plowed up road to woolshed. Afterwards we straightened up edges and threw spoil in centre. Householders' meeting in evening - big crowd. Two ladies Maxwell and Mrs Hosie elected. April 30 Thurs. Evening bridge at Maxwells. Shirley at Smiths. May 1 Fri.

Evening at Mackenzies to meet Dr Mrs Davis from Manaia - wife school friend of Shirleys. May 2 Sat Went with Harold McLeavey to Palm Nth. Annual Meeting Manawatu Exec. F. U. Good attendance. O.P. Lynch elected president. I was appointed to Dominion Conference. May 3 Sun Gert (Sievers) and family came up in afternoon. May 8 Fri.

Annual meeting Levin Branch F. U. Fair attendance. Again elected president F.R. Wright resigned from Secretaryship after 13 years service. W.E. Kilsby elected to take place. May 16 Sat Bridge at Smaills.

May 17 Sun. Fine, at home all day. Wattie Booth came in to lunch on his way to Wgtn. Brought Ronnie and two Burrell children. 14 for lunch.

May 18 Mon.

Spent all day travelling round district with Mr F.A. Nelson organizer for Farmers Union. Did Gladstone Rd, Queen St and along Arapaepae Rd. Masonic dance in Shannon. May 20 Wed.

Took Shirley, Harold, Molly McLeavey to Palm. Nth. to inter-provincial conference. T. Currie in chair. About 80 delegates. Shirley & I stayed with Bill and Peggy Watson. Evening I took Bill to 'Beano' May 21 Thurs. Conference all day. Finished about 4.30 pm. Home about 7 pm. May 22 Fri Put in another day with Nelson. Did Potts Rd and Ihakara. Only fair business. May 26 Tues. I spent another day with Mr Nelson. Kimberley Rd and Beach Rd. May 27 Wed. Commenced crutching ewes. Will Beckett visited us and stayed all night May 30 Sat Went to town. Saw football Hui Mai 11 Athletic 6. Played in pouring rain. May 31 Sun. Shirley & I took children to Church of England. Afternoon Shirley & I and Mrs Smith called to see Mr it Mrs Routley. Frank and I walked round farm. June 2 Tues. Took out driver's licence. June 3 Wed. King's Birthday. John and I took children down to see tractor's working on Bartholomew Bros. farm - tearing out toi-toi nigger head, etc. Tractors can climb anything and did great work. Shirley took children and Hitchcocks to beach. John and I mustered 4 tooth ewes for crutching. June 6 Sat.

Went to meeting of Manawatu Exec. F.U. Big meeting 18 delegates. Afternoon I went to see football Athletic 9 Otaki 1 Evening at Smaills. June 10 Wed. Gwen went to hunt at Simcox's Otaki June 13 Sat Afternoon meeting of Levin Branch F. U. About 50 present including Mr Monk and County Councillors. Good meeting. June 14 Sun. At home all day. Bill Jack and family, also Jim Smith and family up in afternoon. June 15 Mon. Evening at Donnellys. June 18 Thurs. Mrs Biss safely delivered of a daughter. June 20 Sat Took Lois to Mr Mackenzie to have 6 teeth drawn under gas. Came through alright Evening at Mrs G. Browns. Barrons from Wanganui there. June 21 Sun. Fine. Afternoon big party of visitors Barrons, Smiths, Browns, and Bartholomews. June 23 Tues. Tea at Hitchcocks and choral June 25 Thurs. Maddison and Blenkhorn looked at heifers. Pictures and Sid Halls afterwards. June 26 Fri. Wilkie brought about 150 ewes up for crutching. John and he did most of the crutching - I picked up and kept them going. Finished before dinner. Afternoon at drain. Mr & Mrs Vickers up in evening. 29 Sat. Afternoon to town. Took girls to football - Athletic 9 Paraparaumu 6. June 29 Mon. Went in car to see Mr Blenkhorn who had 4 heifer calves which he wanted to exchange for a cow. He came back with me and we bailed up and tried 2nd calver and he liked her and decided to take her in exchange for the four weaner heifers plus one pound to boot. John milked her until he took delivery. The heifer calves fair stuff - two rather small. June 30 Tues. John took Blenkhorn's cow and black and white heifer to Levin sale together with 2 cows of Bechers - Bill Fulton assisting. Left Blenkhorn's Cow at Prouses and Blenkhorn took deliver from there. Sold heifer for 5 pounds - only bid. (J.Laing) John then brought home the 4 weaner heifers from Blenkhorns. Shirley played bridge against Otaki Late, so stayed in town to tea at Maxwells. Choral, late home. July 1 Wed. I delivered to the station and truck 9 bullocks on way down to meet Vickers' car with Norman and Enid who had just come from ChCh after finishing at the Public Hospital. Evening Shirley went to Hawkes and Enid and I went to Vickers for evening July 4 Sat. Went to Palm. Nth with Harold and Molly McLeavey to meeting of Manawatu Provincial Exec. F.U. O.P. Lynch away sick J.A. McLeavey in chair. Unemployment scheme by Schriber. July 6 Mon. Caught 4 pm. train to Wellington to attend Dominion Conference. Called to see F.H. Hudson re County matters en route. Stayed at 'Fern Hill'. Percy over in evening. July 7 Tues. Opening of Conference. Speeches by His Excellency Lord Bledisloe. G.W. Forbes, Coates, Holland. Afterwards by Polson. July 8 Wed. to 10 Fri

Rain all the time. Attended Conference most of the time. Went to Govt House Thursday afternoon and spent enjoyable time. 10 Fri Met Mr & Mrs Lilburne, Mrs C.K. Wilson, Mr & Mrs S. Ziman. Returned home Friday evening Changed into dress clothes at Gran Hitchcocks and went to A. & P. Ball. Good function. Home 3 am. July 11 Sat Wet. Very tired, up late. Afternoon meeting of Levin Branch. Big attendance. Report of Conference. Pictures in evening. July 12 Sun. Shirley & I went with Enid & Norman, and Dr Thompson, Noel & Mrs Thomson and Eric Vickers for a ride to Norman's property at Holdo. Very enjoyable ride. Came back across Moutere and Kawiu. July 14 Tues. Very wet. John took 3 heifers to yards. Struck worst sale of the season. My first experience under new management. Live Stock Ltd. Sold our heifer (yellow) at 6 /10/-. Verity afterwards took another at 6/15 /- nett. John brought the other home. July 15 Wed. Afternoon I assisted to prepare stage for 'Bohemian Girl' which choral society put on in evening. Had a good audience and the affair went off well Supper afterwards. July 17 Fri Evening Shirley & I, Norman & Enid, George & Pat Wilson went to Te Horo to Farmer's Union Ball - very good function and made very welcome. July 18 Sat. Morning I attended meeting of Unemployment Committee to discuss planting of maffam on sand hills. Nothing definite done as No. 5 scheme not available. Mr P.J. Small present. Evening we received glad news that Enid had passed her nurse's final exams. July 19 Sun. Awful day. Did not go out until evening when we all went to Church of England. July 21 Tues. Evening spent at Dr Thompsons. Enjoyable time. Dancing. July 22 Wed. R.S.A. reunion in evening. July 25 Sat. I took Enid to football match. Wanderers 14 Hui Mai 9. July 26 Sun. Felt rather seedy - hurt my back I drove children to the beach. Shirley and Enid rode on horseback George and Pat up to tea and evening. July 27 Mon. Wet. Did not get up on account of lumbago. John went round ewes and took out hay. July 28 Tues. Fine. In bed most of the day - up in afternoon. Miss Pat O'Connor, a friend of Enids arrived to stay with us. John went to Feilding to attend Old Pupil's Day at FeiMing Agricultural High School. July 29 Wed. Fine. Took family to Mr Simcox's place to see hunt. Big crowd there and very good run. Mr Hutchinson of Murray Roberts & Co. there and he came home to tea with us. Afterwards we all went to Otaki in Mr H's car when the Choral Society put on the 'Bohemian Girl' to a poor audience. July 31 Fri

John's friend Trevor Allen arrived to stay with us. August 1 Sat. Went to meeting of Manawatu Exec. F.U. O.P. Lynch still away sick so I took chair. Gave details of Dominion Conf. Afternoon Anne who is spending weekend with Mrs Sievers, fell on bitumen and dislocated elbow and also broke bone. Dr Hunter attended her. X-rayed the arm and set it. August 2 Sun.

Rotten day. Enid, Pat and Norman left for Napier 11 am. in Ray Brown's car. Shirley & I left for Wgtn. by car 3.15 pm. taking Anne and Trevor Allen with us. Good trip down. Arrived at Becketts Island Bay 6 pm. August 3 Mon. Took Anne to Dr Robertsons at Kelvin Buildings. He examined the arm and then took her to the radiologist Dr Cameron and together they set the arm. Anne came through it well but a bit upset. Took her back to Island Bay and put her to bed. Evening I went with Rex and Maurice to see wrestling McDougal v. Alley - latter won 2 falls to 1. Interesting spectacle. August 4 Tues to 7 Fri Had to call on Dr every day for treatment Anne's arm improving - swelling going down. Went to Karitane Hospital - beautiful view. Saw Helen Stewart. Also visited zoo. August 8 Sat. Fine but cold. Took Will and Rex to Athletic Park to see rugby final. Hutt 9 Marist 3. Good game. Hutt champions 1931. Tea at Dentons. Savage Club in evening. Shirley took Edith and Kate for drive in afternoon. August 9 Sun.

Drizzling. Shirley & I and Anne went to Eastbourne to visit Mr Ae Mrs Walker. Afterwards tea and evening at Allenville. August 10 Mon. Visited Dr Robertson for final treatment. I called on Dr Graham Robertson re irritation of skin. Gave me prescription for treatment. Lunch with W.M. Beckett at D.I.C. then left for home. Shirley drove all the way arriving Levin 2 and a half hours. Left W.M. Beckett at Paekakariki August 15 Sat Went to town. Horowhenua beat Manawatu 5. August 16 Sun. Went to Levin to meet Billy Wilson but he came by private car and I missed him. August 20 Thurs. Evening Billy, Shirley & I went to see Amateur Operatic Society put on 'Belle of New York'. John performing. Very good turn out August 21 Fri.

Fine. Billy returned to Hastings. All day among sheep. August 30 Sun. Afternoon Harold McLeavey and I drove to Paekakariki in our car to see Mr O.P. Lynch our Provincial President F. U. who is seriously ill. Spent about an hour with him and found him bright and cheerful, although doctors hold little hope of his recovery. Sept. 3 Thurs. Had to get Dr Hunter for Dick - bad with whooping cough. Sept. 5 Sat.

Wet. Harold and I went to Palm. Nth. to Provincial Exec. F. U. Not very much business. Afternoon in to football Wgtn 15 beat Australia 9.

Sept. 9 Wed. Showery. Ground soaking wet so went to Palm. Nth. to see Maoris 3 v Australia 14. Good game on wet ground. Big crowd. Rode up with Harold McLeavey in his car. He also took Cardston and Baxter. Met Wattle Booth and his father. Sept. 12 Sat. I went to monthly meeting Levin Branch F. U. Fair attendance. Discussed reduction of interest. Dick still in bed, but improving. Bill came with me to meeting. Sept. 13 Sun. Shirley, John and I went to early communion Church of England. Molly returned to Wellington by evening train. Sept. 15 Tues. John went to Palm Nth. with 'Belle of New York' company. Sept. 19 Sat Afternoon I went to town and saw Athletic beat Paraparaumu for final 6 - 5. Tea at Gran Hitchcocks and pictures - 'Old English'. Sept. 20 Sun. Shirley & I took girls to church. Afternoon Mrs Sievers came up with children. Sept. 22 Tues. Unemployment Committee met in evening Sept. 23 Wed. Enid turned up unexpectedly from Napier having 4 days leave. Shirley brought her and Norman home. Sept. 24 Thurs. Beautiful day. We all drove to Hokio to Norman's farm, Mr & Mrs Frances Pyke, Eric & Chrissy (Vickers) also there. Had a walk round. Evening same party also met at 'Denaby' with addition of George & Pat (Wilson) Sept. 25 Fri Evening at Vickers. Sept. 26 Sat

Enid returned to Napier by rail. Sept. 27 Sun. Fine. Shirley and girls went to church. Afternoon we drove to Vincents to practice quartette. Afterwards to Hitchcocks. Sept. 30 Wed. Fine, mixed concrete for slab over soak pit (for septic tank) but did not have enough sand so only did half cover. Afternoon dug garden. Oct. 1 Thurs. Sang at Lodge - two quartettes. Oct. 2 Fri

Wet day. Cut down macracarpoa in orchard cut out strainer and lot of firewood. Rotten weather. Completed concreting lid of soak pit. Oct. 3 Sat. Went to meeting Manawatu Provincial Exec. F.U. at Levin. Afternoon went with Walker, Foss, Bowater to Otald also Smaill, G. Brown, Bagrie to opening of bowling season. Green rather heavy and both rinks were beaten mostly on the long heads. Will Beckett came home with us. Oct. 4 Sun.

Beautiful day. Round stock Afternoon we took Will & Mamie with us for drive to Norman's farm. Left Will at Pykes. Oct. 6 Tues. Sale in afternoon and dance by Choral Society in evening. Poor turn-out Took car down for new starter. Oct. 7 Wed. Opening bowling season Levin Club. Big crowd of visitors - could not accommodate all on green. Bridge at Smaills. Oct. 10 Sat Afternoon I took 4 children with me to bowls. John went to Foxton with football team and won final match. Athletic 12 Foxton 8. Oct. 11 Sun. Afternoon I took Mr J. and Harold McLeavey and H.J. Richards to Otald to attend funeral of Mr O.P. Lynch our late Provincial President F.U. who died on Friday. Big crowd there - rain stopped during burial. Executive members acted as bearers. J. & Harold McLeavey, H.J. Richards, Kent, Jensen and myself. Oct. 13 Tues. Afternoon went to sale, bought yearling jersey bull 3 gns. bred by Arthur Hudson of Heatherlea. Had blow-out of tyre and Von Hartitch put me on a new one and is to apply for rebate on old one as unserviceable. Oct. 14 Wed. Rode to Mr Sorraghans and brought home bull purchased yesterday. Also another jersey yearling bull bred by Mr Sorraghan which cost 3 pounds. Evening lecture on 'Sterility' etc. by Mr Barry, Govt. Vet, to members of F.U. About 70 there and instructive lecture. Discovered that Mr Barry had been one of the vets in Palestine campaign. Supper at Mrs Kilsbys. Oct. 17 Sat. Afternoon went to bowls. Oct. 18 Sun. Fine. At home. Mrs Sievers and family up in afternoon. Oct. 20 Tues. John took 2 bulls (shorthorn and red poll) and we sold them at 2 pounds each. Too many entries. Also delivered bullock (6/10/-) and I empty heifer 3/10/- at Tom Devine's slaughter house. Bowls. Tea at Vickers. Meeting of Choral Committee and Unemployment Committee. Oct. 23 Fri. Lois and Anne went to Fancy Dress Ball (Catholic) Oct. 24 Sat. Fine. Round stock Worked around house mowing lawns, etc. Afternoon went to bowls. Shirley went to Otald to golf. Trix Denton and Doris Beckett arrived to stay with us over holiday. Oct. 25 Sun. Fine but very cold after rough night with heavy snow. We all drove to Holdo after dinner. New traffic bridge officially opened by Mayor & Mayoress. We drove over and up beach. Home via Waitarere. Oct. 26 Mon. Beautiful day. Labour Day. I spent whole day on bowling green. Progressive pairs tournament. Did no good only one win out of five games. Lunch at Hitchcocks. Tea at George Browns. Evening pictures with family. 'The middle Watch' - very good. Trix and Doris returned to Wellington at 9.4_5 pm. Left pictures early to catch train. Oct. 27 Tues. Showery. Went to Levin Cattle Fair. Big entry but prices poor. Sid Jackson's 4 yr. polled angus bullocks (good stuff) passed at 6 pounds. (6/5/- wanted.) I bought 16 polled angus yearling steers (Simcox) at 2 17/6 nice stuff also 8 shorthorn steers rough but good colours at 2 pounds. Cheap enough. Evening I went to meeting at Ihakara Hall to consider proposal to use unemployed for spraying ragwort. About a dozen present Committee appointed to canvas settlers. Oct. 28 Wed Bridge party in evening Oct. 29 Thurs. Bridge at O'Connors at night Oct. 30 Sat. Bowls in afternoon. Herrick and I challenged Allen and Robertson for Ferns and were beaten 24 - 16. At tea time score was 22 - 3. School fete in afternoon. Lois in drill. Nov. 1 Sun Afternoon Mr & Mrs Smaill and Dorothy and Mr & Mrs 1.D. O'Connor came up to see us. Evening Shirley & I went to Church of England. Bishop Sprott preached. Nov. 2 Mon. Very wet day. Shirley went with MI Mrs Sid Sievers to Palm Nth, for the day. I went round stock and got wet through. Rain continued so stayed inside and did income returns. Nov. 6 Fri

Went to town in afternoon to bank and afterwards to bowls. Evening Shirley & I spent at Hitchcocks. Nov. 7 Sat. Went to Palm Nth. to Provincial Exec. F.U. Mrs & Mamie Hitchcock and Mr Emms here also Jim & Bess Smith who came to see us and bring Anne a present for her birthday. Nov. 13 Fri.

George Wilson and Jim Rolston commenced to shear hoggets. Had fairly successful day. Very tired. Nov. 15 Sun. Mustered young ewes and put them in night pen. Afternoon Jack family and Mr & Mrs Hawke were up to see us. Nov. 20 Fri. Finished shearing at dinnertime. Had a good run with only minor stoppages. Nov. 22 Sat. I went to bowls in afternoon - felt pretty tired. Nov. 23 Mon. Evening went to bowling green and played match with Kerslake - B grade and beat him by 20 - 16 after a good game. Led by 15 - 3 half way but he crept up. Nov. 24 Tues. Went to Levin. Car greased - bought spare tyre and rim. Heavy thunderstorm. Nov. 25 Wed. Cleaned car and did odd jobs. Evening played Joe Allen for B grade Championships and was beaten 22 - 17. Nov. 26 Thurs. Fine. Shirley, Norman V. and I left by car 8 am. for Hastings. Good run up without mishap. Arrived Lauries just after 2 pm. after having lunch at Waipukurau. Nov. 27 Fri. to 4 Dec. Went to Hastings bowling green on several occasions with Billy Wilson and also Laurie. Billy eventually became member Hastings Club. Went twice to Napier and saw result of earthquake. Took Enid, Pat and Tait out to tea. Also went to Waimarama for Sunday. Visited Caleb Pyke and saw his orchard and got some cherries. Evening at Mr & Mrs Palmers. Caught slight chill and felt rather stiff in the back when I reached home - went to bed. Found everything alright. Dec. 2 Wed. Election day in Hastings. Dec. 5 Sat

Felt seedy with lumbago". so stayed in bed - bark bad. Shirley spring cleaning. Dec. 6 Sun.

Fine. Also in bed. Dec. 7 Mon. Wet after heavy shower in night so did not get up till afternoon, when I hung round house. Dec. 8 Tues. Up after breakfast feeling a lot better. Rode round stock Mustered old ewes to yards and dagged lambs. Tried to do a little (lagging myself but could not stand up to it so John had to finish. Back bad as ever and went to bed early. Dec. 9 Wed. Back rotten so stayed in bed. Shin l still spring cleaning. John fixed in 3 panes of glass. Dec. 10 Thurs. Up for breakfast and helped Shirley all day round house. Feeling better. Dec. 11 Fri ine. Went to Levin to final of Calf Club Champs. Very good lot of calves judged by Mr Green. Young Speedy champion and Cockrell best type. Dec. 12 Sat I went to bowls in afternoon but felt rather seedy. Dec. 13 Sun. Evelyn and Millie left for Wellington about 9 am. Went down to bowls in evening and played and lost 2 handicap matches, one to Jim Challies and one to Frank Routley. Dec. 15 Tues. Up at 5 am. and drafted fat lambs and Tom Read took delivery. Went to bowls and was beaten by Langelen in handicap singles. Tea at Arthur Hawkes and meeting of Unemployment Committee. Shirley and Mrs Sievers had card party at Mrs Sievers. Dec. 16 Wed. Evening Masonic Christmas Party. Took kids. Hodder was Father Christmas. Self - telegraph boy. Dec. 19 Sat

Bowls in afternoon. Dec. 20 Sun. Met first train from Wellington and brought Mary Beckett home to stay for the day_ She returned by evening train after which Shirley & I visited Hitchcocks. Dec. 24 Thurs. John & I worked on ensilage at Pedersens all day. Knocked off at 3 pm - and took family to town. Christmas Eve. Dec. 25 Fri. Christmas Day. Communion at 8 am. - Shirley, John and I. Afternoon Browns, Bartholomews, Smaills, Wards and Smiths families up to 'beano'. Enid arrived home at 10 pm. Dec. 26 Sat

Boxing Day. Vickers, Sievers and Dentons went to Waitarere Beach. Very nice day. Dec. 27 Sun. Fine but windy. Afternoon Dentons, Sievers went to Otaki Beach. Picked up Edith and Kate and had afternoon tea at beach. Dec. 28 Mon. Fred Bartholomew died suddenly - heart failure. Dec. 31 Thurs. Fine. Val Pedersen, Mr Pedersen and Wills (Becher's relief man) John and I ensilage. I had to leave after dinner to attend funeral of Fred Bartholomew. Wattle Booth came down from Feilding bringing his mother and Miss Nash who stayed here - Wattie and I were pall-bearers with Peter B, Cyril B, Ivo B, and John. Big crowd of people. Town in evening.

Jan. 7 (Thurs) Showery. Up at 4am & called for Gordon & went up Becher's Hill & mustered my two tooths which have been grazing there for 9 weeks. Good muster - got all my own sheep. 108 & 6 of Gordon's. Express Co. called for wool (11 bales) & I helped him Load. Only had 2 horses which could not get it out so he had to go to Levin for 2 more. Express Co. brought up 14 bags cement Jan. 8 (Fri) Evening, Children - Cliff, Vivian, Dulcie, Marjy over to tea. Jan. 9 (Sat) Levin in afternoon - A & P Association also Patriotic Committee Meeting. Jan. 10 (Sun) Church in evening. Adkin's horse bolted with trap on account of winkers falling off. Smashing front board. Otherwise no damage.
Mrs Mottershead lost her daughter by drowning at Hokio. Jan. 12 (Tues) Sad drowning accident at Te Horo when Mr H. Hodge & son were drowned while fishing. Taken by sharks. Jan. 15 (Fri) Beautiful day. Gil, Willie Stewart & I turned hay in morning. Afternoon Gimblett & Gil carted hay. Andy & I pitched, Clifford & George raked & Willie Stewart built stack (a round one) & made a good job (stack 12ft across bottom). Gordon was to have built stack but failed to turn up until 4.30 Jan. 16 (Sat) "Auntie" & the children went to Wellington by early train to stay at Percy's place in Oriental Bay & Alice & family & Miss Guy arrived by Napier mail to stay here. Jan. 17 (Sun) Adkin girls over to see us in afternoon Jan. 22 (Fri) P. Norwood Denton arrived from Wellington Jan. 23 (Sat) Mrs D. Hyde (Alice's sister) arrived by Napier mail. I killed a lamb & took half to Wellington by Napier Mail. Went to "Fern Hill". Found family there, also Frank. Stayed there all night. Jan. 24 (Sunday) Church. Oriental Bay in afternoon. Fern Hill at night. Jan. 25 (Mon) Fine. Went with Edith to see Frank & twins off. Went to Murray Robert's Wool Store to see wool - looked well. Took children out in afternoon. Jan. 26 (Tues) Fine. Edith, Enid, George & Miss Bowles & I went to wool sale. Very keen. Excellent prices. My fleece wool brought 13½d & bellies 8 & 3/4 - a record for me. Adkin got 13½d for fleece & 9½d for pieces. Went to entertainment in evening with Edith. Jan. 27 (Wed) Fine. Came home by 4pm train. George had his first swimming lesson with Mr Shields and he performed well. Cards in evening - midnight. Jan. 28 (Thurs) PN. & Mrs Denton banquetted at Mrs Bechers. Played "Kick the Tin". Jan. 29 (Fri) Fine. Percy & I drove 114 lambs to A & W's yards, sold 80 at 12/- (A. McLeavey) 14 at 10/-, 19 at 9/6 & 1 at 14/-. Fair sale. Robert arrived from Hastings where he had previously left his beard. He looked quite "swankie". Most successful eel-fishing expedition - 1 eel Jan. 31 (Sun) Fine. Robert & children overlooked dinner hour. Search party out. Feb. 2 (Tues) Fine. Perc & I mustered 2 tooths off back hill. Afternoon we drove to Levin to see Robert off by New Plymouth mail after having tea at Miss McKeggs. We afterwards drove to the Experimental Farm & had a look round. Heavy shower came on & we got wet. Feb. 3 (Wed) Party in evening. Miss Bennett, Clare & Gil, Miss Lancaster, Miss Herd, Les & E.W.J. Smith Feb. 6 (Sat) Fine. Perc & I finished off dip yards & made good job.


Feb. 7 (Sun) Stayed home all day. Pero went to Adkins to tea. Feb. 8 (Mon) Fine. Alice & I drove down with Percy & Mrs Hyde to Station when they went to Wellington by first train. Feb. 19 (Fri) Mr & Mrs T. Edwards up for tea & evening. Alice had bad turn. Feb. 23 (Tues) Alice & I went to "bun-rush" in evening in connection with Harvest Festival. Fairly enjoyable. Feb. 24 (Wed) Fine. Went to Hokio Beach & had a "ripping" time. Anniversary of wedding day, 11 yrs. Feb. 25 (Thurs). Mr Pearn, agent for fire extinguishers & an old college boy called & stayed to tea & evening. Five hundred till midnight. March 3 Had a bogus birthday which caused us a Lot of fun, particularly Alice. March 7 (Sun) Beautiful day. Alice, Bess & Morrie went to Church & cooked dinner. All drove to McLeavey's in afternoon March 9 (Tues). Fine. Worked at Dip yards. Emptied dip & measured in water, 350 gallons when full. Norrie, Harry & I had a bath in the clean water in dip. March 12 (Fri) Gorringe has leased Tompsitt's farm adjoining me. Miss Amy Ross arrived by eight train to spend weekend. March 14 (Sun) Fine. The ladies went to Church. Afternoon Alice, Miss Ross & children & I went for a drive. Gathered mushrooms. Church in evening. March 17 (Wed) Beautiful day. After dinner, I went to Levin to see Lifesaving Display by Wellington swimmers. Very instructive & interesting. We formed a branch of the club here & about a dozen became members including myself. Afterwards I went to a garden party run by Ladies of Levin in aid of the Belgium Fund. Very big crowd & great success. March 21 (Sun) Showery. Did not go out in morning. Alice & I drove to Adkins in afternoon March 22 (Mon) Bess & I worked in garden in morning. Planted cauliflowers, leeks & silver beet. March 23 (Tues) Percy came up by 8 train - I met him March 24 (Wed) Wet in morning. Dug potatoes for Perc & gathered mushrooms. Man came to inspect farm. Drove to station to meet Napier train when Perc & Alice & family returned home. Garden party at J. Prouse's - fairly successful but rather wet. Auntie did not return from Wellington. March 26 (Fri) Adkins to tea. Edith & Miss Smith staying there. March 29 (Mon) Willie Stewart met the Napier train & brought home Miss Bowles & children who returned from Wellington after 10 weeks there. April 1 (Thurs) Went to Hastings Apr. 5 (Mon) Fine. Hired a buggy & drove to Awhanga to Mrs Hurley's place where I spent the day. Very enjoyable day. Apr. 6 (Tues) Fine & hot. Biked round in morning. Afternoon I drove with Mr Herd to see his property in Hastings. Very fine country & carries a lot of stock. Mr Herd has grown stock at the rate of 10 to the acre. Very little grass but the sheep looked healthy. He claims to have fattened 4000 sheep in the 12 months & to have made 12 pounds per acre. Seems rather a fairy tale. He has 150 acres freehold & about 100 acres leasehold. Spent evening at Herd's. Nell & Laurie came over also. Apr. 7 (Wed) Fine & very hot. Went to Stock sale at Stortford Lodge, Hastings. Big entry of sheep - about 6000. Stock, as a rule, poor & weedy & suffering from effects of drought. Apr. 8 (Thurs) Fine. Came home. Apr. 9 (Fri) Meeting in evening of entertainment committee for territorials Apr. 11 (Sun) Fine. Miss Bowles & children to Church in morning. All drove to cemetery in afternoon. Jen's birthday. Church in evening. Apr. 13 (Tues) Entertainment to visiting territorials in evening. Apr. 14 (Wed) Wet morning. Mended bike. Evening Century Hall entertainment. Apr. 15 (Thurs) Evening Century Hall Apr. 16 (Fri) Evening Concert to territorials Apr. 17 (Sat) Town in Evening Apr. 18 (Sun) Fine. Up late. Rode to camp (on racecourse) in afternoon. Bed early. Apr. 19 (Mon) Entertainment Century Hall - afterwards dance in Town Hall Apr. 21 (Wed) Afternoon went to Military sports in connection with camp. Very successful. Took nearly 30 pounds at the gates. Apr. 23 (Fri) Campfire concert in evening at Racecourse. Apr. 25 (Sun) Went to Intercessory service for peace in afternoon. The Mayor, Salvation Army Capt. Rev's Healey & Randerson took part. Adkins to tea, Miss Milson staying there. Apr. 26 (Mon) Fine. Odd jobs in morning picked eating apples & stored them in where. Afternoon finished digging potatoes. Evening meeting finance committee of Military Sports credit balance 37 pounds 10/- for Belgium Fund. Apr. 27 (Tues) Whitaker made a start with the additions to the house. Put up new tank stand back at wash house & moved dairy round to East side of house - I assisted. Heavy wind from east. Apr. 30 (Fri) NZ troops in action at Dardanelles - fought with great valour, first experience. May 1 (Sat). Afternoon I rode the mare over to Foxton to see Alb. Kellow. Evening we all went to the pictures. May 2 (Sun) Fine. Alb & I drove round Moutoa in morning & we all drove to beach in afternoon. Lett Foxton for home about 10.15 & reached home under 2½hrs. May 4 (Tues). Wet morning. Took 5 sacks potatoes & 2 boxes of fruit to station & sent sack of potatoes & box of apples to each Frank & Mother. Also potatoes to Rob, Percy & Laurie. Also received box of pears from Mother. May 5 (Wed) News of casualties among New Zealanders in action at Dardanelles just to hand. About 140 killed & wounded. May 9 (Sun) Fine but dull. Children & I went to Church in morning & brought Mr & Mrs Porteous home to dinner. Dave & I took walk round in afternoon & I drove them home in the evening. German submarine torpedoed trans-Atlantic liner "Lusitaura" near coast of Ireland & about 1100 people drowned. May 12 (Wed) Patriotic Concert in evening. Very successful & good crowd. I sang "Admir­al's Broom" also took part in quartette "The Two Roses' which went very well. Art Union drawn at conclusion. Although I held 51 tickets & "Aunt" 14, the children 4 each, we had no luck. May 14 (Fri) Tea at D.S. Mackenzie's & Carnival Committee meeting in evening. Battleship "Goliath" torpedoed in Dardanelles - about 400-500 (1 of crew) drowned. Desperate fighting in France. May 22 (Sat). Fine. Adkin & went canvassing Queen St. & Arapaepae Rd for funds for the wounded soldiers. Fairly successful. Afternoon we went to the funeral of Mr J.R. McDonald who died suddenly at Wanganui. Lots of people there. The body was taken to the Hokio private cemetery for burial, Large Maori gathering & ceremony. Stayed in town in evening. May 24 (Mon). Afternoon Adkin & I finished canvassing Gladstone Rd. Totalled about 60 pounds May 26 (Wed) Drove to Manakau in evening with Quartette Party, (Mottershead, Smith, Porteous, Denton) sang in four quartettes & recited. Went well. May 28 (Fri) Evening concert. Performed in Simple Simon & Waxworks. Very stormy night, thunder & lightning. Fair audience & successful concert. June 2 (Wed). Went to Clearing sale of Lodge's furniture & bought a duchess set for Enid 30/-. Jack & I went to Wellington to attend Carnival. June 3 (Thurs). Showery in morning. We all went to the shop in Willis St. to witness the Carnival Procession. It was an excellent "turn-out" & took an hour to pass. Jack enjoyedit immensely & threw out the money to the collectors. Will & I walked to the Park in afternoon - Mother, Jack & the girls going in cab. Tremendous crowd there. Bought sundry Art Union tickets, June 4 (Fri). Fine. Jack & I went to Alice's to dinner & then we all (Alice, Miss Lawless & Bessie & self & all the children went to Park - good sport. Evening Edith & I went to Opera House to concert by Commercial Travellers. Rather poor. June 5 (Sat) Fine. Round town in morning. Edith, Kate & I went to Park in afternoon. Procession, Band Contest & Gymnastic Display by Fire Brigade. Good entertainment. Evening, Perc & I went to Savage Club. Good concert. June 6 (Sun) Fine. Church & walk round hills in afternoon with Will & Bob Pope. Came home by Auckland Mail reaching here at 11.20pm, Left Jack in town staying with Rob & Carrie. June 7 (Mon) Later drove to Levin for duchess. Concert in evening by Prof. Cardston. Fair crowd. Poor turnout. June 11 (Fri) Fine. Went in Gorringe's car with Mrs Gardener, Chaplin, Goldsmith to Feilding to sell motor car tickets for carnival. Called at Foxton & saw Kellow. Arrived Feilding 11.30. Fairly successful. Sold about 24 or 25 pounds worth. Left for home 4.30pm. Arrived Shannon 6.30. Gorringe unwell so we transhipped into Tippler's car & came on to Levin. Gorringe went home alone. Arrived Levin 6.50, changed clothes at Smith's & went on to Otaki with party to perform concert. Poor house, concert fair. Home to bed 1am. June 12 (Sat). Wet in afternoon. Odd jobs in morning. Went to Wellington by Napier Mail. Pictures in evening. June 13 (Sun) Heavy showers. Dinner at Robs. Tea. home & Church. June 14 (Mon) Fine. Home by Napier Mail & brought Jack with me. Porteous to tea. Meeting in evening. June 16 (Wed). Beautiful day. Carnival Day in aid of Wounded Soldiers. Very tine proces­sion. All children took part. George & Jack as cowboys & Enid as milkmaid. I was attired as a "swell" - Frock coat, white waistcoat, large check pants & spats. High collar, high hat & red tie. Just the thing! Carnival very success­ful, 2000 people there & took over 300 pounds. I was doorkeeper at Mock Court. Vincent - Judge G. White - Counsel. Takings about 35 pounds. Tea at D.S. Macken­zies. Evening Fancy Dress Ball. Very successful. About 200 there. Home midnight very tired. June 18 (Fri) Bad cold. T.E. Mills killed at Dardanelles June 22 (Tues) Jack's 4th birthday, in good form. June 23 (Wed) Crutched hoggets in afternoon. Concert by Otaki in aid of Carnival Queen. Very good. June 28 (Mon). Carnival Queen elected. Miss Doughty (Commercial Travellers) 1st, Miss MacCormack (Trentham Boys) 2nd, Miss Senior (Hutt Valley) 3rd, Miss McKegg (Mane­watu) 4th. 7,639,047 votes cast altogether representing 63,653 pounds in money for wounded soldiers. July 1


Showery. Proctor came to finish painting. Mrs W, MUdgway bought & paid for patriotic horse bought a fortnight ago. Price 5 pounds 5/-. July 6 (Tues). Young Raper paid me a visit & wanted me to put my property on the market. The only inducement for me to sell would be so that I could enlist for the front. Mr J. Kebbell's son Jack died of wounds at Dardanelles. 4th Anniversary of Jennie's death. July 17 (Sat) Went by Mail Car to Foxton to see Alb. Kellow. Went down to Levin & Co. office in afternoon. Pictures in evening. July 18 (Sun) Alb & I drove to the camp of the Trentham Regiment at Rangiotu. Nice position & practically no sickness. Only saw one man I knew - Dixon of Levin. Country in neighbourhood very poor.


19th July. I came back from Foxton early morning. July 23 (Fri) Went to see Crowning Ceremony of Carnival Queen (Miss Doughty) Very good turn out & excellently staged. Several honours. conferred which included one to myself, i.e. Lord High Observer of Tararuas & Commander in Chief of National Reserves, Great Sport. July 24 (Sat) Spent day round the house - put down new linoleum in passage & hall & boys' bedroom. Washed phaeton. Moved old ewes. Pictures in evening with Billy Wilson. July 25 (Sun) Beautiful day. Auntie & children went to Church in morning. I cooked. W.H. Wilson & family drove up in car in afternoon & stayed to tea. Had big job to turn car round. Aug. 24


Savage Club. Russian fleet defeated Germans at Gulf of Riga. German warship Molke torpedoed by British submarine. Aug. 29 (Sun)


Fine. Round sheep. Miss Bowles & children to Church. Afterwards to dinner at Mrs W.H. Wilson's. I stayed in to Church.


Sept. 8 (Wed) George's birthday. Concert in evening in aid of Band (Levin). I performed in Pierrots - "Flora-dora" & "Country Girl". Packed house & successful entertain­ment. Sept. 11 (Sat). Auntie out. Engaged housekeeper for Frank as Ethel very poorly. Sept. 12 (Sun) Fine. Auntie & children drove to Church in morning. All took a walk to back hill in afternoon. Cyril Bartholomew & Miss Browne rode up & stayed to tea. I went to Church & called at Mrs D.S. Mackenzie's. Sept. 18 (Sat) Fine. Cyril Bartholomew came to help me dock. He took delivery of 45 lambs at 13/- & 3 culls at 10/-. Those offered in A.W's yards on 10th inst. Sept. 25 (Sat) Fine with heavy easterly wind. The children & I gathered chips on stumping paddock in morning. Afternoon levelling. Sept. 26 (Sun) Fine. Did nothing all day bit had good rest. Auntie & children rode up to bush after nikau & ferns. I went to Church in evening. Sept. 28 (Tues) Fine with odd showers. Brought old "Darkey" from Willie Stewart's & put him with "Gyp" & "Bakke in single furrow plow & commenced on far terrace. Oct. 7 (Thurs) Evening - farewell at Kings Theatre to boys for 9th Reinforcements (including Kennedy)


Oct. 8 (Fri) Left for Wellington by Napier Mail. Mbther & Edith out so Rob & I went to pictures Oct. 9 (Sat) Fine. Departure of NZ Rifle Regiment also 7th Reinforcements. 5,000 in all. Magnificent sight. Big crowd of citizens. Watched all 5 transports depart. Several Levin boys went away W. Gordon (late of Dalgetys) H.E. Lodge, Fletcher, Whitehouse. Went with Percy to Savage Club. Enjoyable evening. Speech by Hon. J. Allen. S. Mackenzie there. Oct. 10 (Sun) Fine. Church in morning. Sunday School Anniversary. Rev.Shirer. Caine home by Auckland Express. Big crowd. Bed 1 o'clock. Oct. 23 (Sat) Aunt took 2cwt potatoes to station for Mr & Mrs P N Denton Oct. 24 (Sun) Aunt & children went to Church. Went to Otaki in car with Mt W H & Mrs Wilson - very enjoyable. Church. Nov. 1 (Mon) Miss Bowles received news of her father's death which occurred on Saturday Nov. 9 (Tues) Fine. Sent George to get Nbrgan to come to shear. He arrived about 10.30. Shore about 75 practically no ticks. Nov. 13 (Sat) Town in evening. Called on Dr Davies Nov. 14 (Sun) Showery. Stayed at home. E W J Smith, Miss Lancaster & Miss Gardner & visitor came up in afternoon Nov. 15 (Mon) Very wet. Finished sewing & branding wool bales. Washed phaeton & cleaned harness. Wettest day of the season Nov. 20 (Sat) Very wet day. Did a few odd jobs in morning but as I felt a bit seedy I slept most of the day. Went to town in evening Gallipoli Day in aid of Christ­mas gifts for the soldiers Nov. 21 (Sun) Fine but very cold. Children all rather off-colour so did not go out. Mr & Mrs Matheson & family up in afternoon & stayed to tea. Nov. 22 (Mon) Fine & hot. Eeid & George both unwell so stayed in bed. Enid soon developed measles. Miss Bowles treating her successfully. Nov. 24 (wed) Discovered that "Dolly" had got out of road paddock & disappeared. I rode round but could not find her so rode to Levin but could hear nothing of her. Several people on lookout for me. Children progressing. George rather seedy - nasty cough. Nov. 25 (Thurs) George had a bad night - delirious. Measles out thick Nov. 26 (Fri) I went to Levin Sale. Found Dolly on Arapaepae Rd & brought her home. Meeting of Swimming Club in evening Dec. 1 (Wed) Opening of swimming season. Rather cold. Fair audience. I acted as starter & entered for diving & relay race 2nd diving 1st relay. Tea & Miss Duff's bridge. Dec. 5 (Sun) Fine. About home all day. Jack properly laid up with measles - standing it pretty well. Church in evening & Adkins where Edith is staying for a few days. Dec. 8 (Wed) Mr Adkin had a giddy fit in Levin - fell down on road. I assisted him into Mrs Cork's & then drove him home in Willie Stewart's trap & then went back for the horses. Tea at Adkins & then home to milk. Dec. 10 (Fri) Cyril Bartholomee & Miss M Brown married today. I went to bridge party at Miss Duff's - won prize Dec. 24 (Fri) Very heavy rain came on about 5pm & lasted about 1 hour. Creeks rose tremendously water over road 1st culvert. However we drove to town to do Christ­mas shopping & had a good time. Home 10.30pm Dec. 25 (Sat) Christmas Day. Fine till midday then heavy rain for 1g hr. Creeks again very high. Went to Willie Stewart's about 3.30pm. Xmas tree. Self Father Xmas. Adkins to tea. Home at dark Dec. 26 (Sun) Fine. "Aunt" & children went to Church. Afternoon we all drove down to Mrs MeLeavey's. Home at dark. Dec. 29 (Wed). Fine Hossack took away 12 bales of wool. Drove in town in afternoon. George & I went to baths. I stayed to Mt P Stewart's to tea & played cards Dec. 30 (Thurs) Fine turned hay & carted it in (2 small loads) in afternoon. Dug garden. Killed lamb for New Year Taking some to Wellington. Dec. 31 (Fri) Went to Wellington by New Plymouth express. Went down with Alb. Kellow.

Jan. 5 Got wire from Perc. to say that he was coming by 8 train so drove down to meet him & Norrie Jan. 6 Fine. Walked round with Perc. & Norris in morning. Drove to town in afternoon, Put night pen in. Male Choir in evening. Called for Parc. at Adkin's on way home. Jan. 7 Fine. Only H Morgan turned up. I sent the "fleece-oh" U. Munro) to Levin to get Wood & mate (Cairns) who turned up late. Morgan turned out 103 Wood 50 & mate 22, H.D. 7 Shower in evening. Could not get all in shed. Jan. 8 Purc. & Norrie returned to town Jan. 13 Miss Bowles went to Eketahuna to visit her sister. Jan. 14

Showery. Odd jobs. Deacons' meeting & soiree in afternoon. Jan. 15 Fine. ,Put in whole day sledging down potatoes for Channings. I brought down 28 sacks & boy brought down 4 sacks of 2nds. Baths in evening & pictures of Panama Canal Jan. 16 Fine. Helped --- unclear -- (11 bales). Levin sale, Baths & male choir. Jan. 17 (Saturday) ---- unclear ----- Cleaning up house. Dug potatoes for Willie Stewart and self. Miss Bowles returned from Eketahuma by 6.45pm. train & I went on to Wellington on same train leaving Miss Bowles to drive home alone. Jan. 18 to 20 Fine. In Wellington
Enid George & I returned home by 7.45 train & Miss Bowles met us. I went to Male Choir & biked home. Jan. 24 Yarded lambs for Vickers who came to draft but it turned out a failure as the lambs were not tit. He eventually got 12 ewes at 16/6 and 9 lambs at 15/- as he wanted to fill up a truck with 42 of Ryders. Jack not very well, Jan. 25 Took George to Church in morning. Brought Mr & Mrs Cutfield back for dinner Jan. 27 Finished shearing about 11.30. Baled up & carted wool to the station. Brought back small load gate timber & ready made gate. Jan. 28 (Wednesday) Fine & very hot. Horowhenua A & P Show Fair success Jan. 29 Fine & very hot - hottest day of season. Took lambs to Adkins to dip. Feb. 1 Miss Bowles 8, children went to Church in morning & brought Mr & Mrs Porteous home to dinner. Took a walk on terrace. Very heavy rain came on about 4.30. Sheltered in wool shed. Feb. 3

Children commenced school riding "Browny" as their own pony "Dolly" laid up with broken knees. Cliff Adkin let her down last week & she has very bad knee. Choir. Feb. 6 Adkin & I went to wool sale in Town Hall. Bidding was brisk & sale went well. My hoggett wool (3 bales) which was passed in at 9d last sale was put up with the ewes wool (10 bales) making 13 bales in all & brought 9½d (valuation 9d) lambs wool (2 bales) brought 10 3/4 valuation 9½. Evening Mother, Alice Parc. & I went to Town Hall to hear Royal Artillery Band engaged for Auckland Exhibition very enjoyable indeed. Splendid music. Feb. 7 Fine. About the garden in morning. Afternoon took Kate to hear Artillery Band at Athletic Park. Went to Fuller Variety Show with Rob in evening. Clever balancing. Feb. 8 Fine. Went to Wesley Church in morning. Very sharp earthquake took place in middle of service & caused considerable excitement. Ladies very much upset. Not much damage done. Afternoon Will & I went to Athletic Park to hear band. Evening Mother & I went to St Johns Feb. 9

Fine. Caine home by "Napier Mail". Mother came with me as far as Plimmerton where she is staying for a week with Edith.

Feb. 18 (Wednesday) Afternoon want to Garden Party held at Adkins by Methodist Church. Big crowd there & very successful. Feb. 20 Went to Levin Ram Fair. Brought D. Gardeners 1st prize Romney Ram (2 tooth) at recent local show for 2 guineas. Feb. 24 10th Anniversary of our wedding day. Vickers came and drafted 33 fat lambs & 5 fat ewes & I drove them to the station yards. Very wet night. Concert by Male Choir in Century Hall 3/4 full. Very successful. Would have had crowded house had night been fine. Feb. 26 Jack had very bad night last night, very delerious for some time. Evidently suffering from shock after having fallen into creek yesterday. Miss Bowles doctored him with Kirk's treatment which proved very successful. Boy much better today but kept him in bed. Farewell to S. Brewster very cold night Feb. 28 (Saturday) Left for Wanganui by mail train. Travelled with Ethel & baby, pleasant journey. Evening went down town with Ethel to meet Frank. Excitement over election of Queen of Carnival. March 1

Fine. All went to Church in morning. Read in afternoon. Studio in evening. March 2 I together with Downes, Charlie Ferry, Morrison & Williams left Aramoho in motor canoe about mid-day for up river. Everything went smoothly & had most enjoyable run. Camped at Ahuahu for the night in a where belonging to Burnell. Spent fairly good night. March 3 (Tues). Fine most of the day, continued up river. Water very low so we had considerable trouble at the rapids, notably Matahiwi where Downes & I had to get into the water with a long rope to assist the boat. We lost control of it once & the boat was carried right back. After a big struggle in which I lost considerable skin we negotiated the rapid & had dinner at Galatea where we got peaches & pears from the Maoris who were very hospit­able. Showers in afternoon but we pushed on to Runana (London) which we reached about 5 o'clock in heavy rain. We camped for the night in Mr Gregor McGregor's new woolshed where we made ourselves-very comfortable. March 4 (Wed). Fine. Left Runana about 9 & immediately entered Motoa rapid where we had a big struggle to get the boat up. Williams (Napoleon) & I were on the rope & we got very wet. Called at Jerusalem where there were some very fine Maoris. Just afterwards we investigated an ancient cave or burial ground of the Maoris which was situated about 35 feet up a cliff. After making a ladder out of canoe poles about 25 feet long, I managed to get into the hole after scaling the last 10 feet by the aid of shrubs. I dragged a rope up after me & then Downes came up. We found plenty of remains of skeletons & coffins. Cave very small & insecure so did not stay long. Downes descended first & by the aid of the rope which we fastened to a tree below, I followed & after a precarious trip, managed to reach the ground, after having cut the rope as high as possible. We brought away a well preserved skull which I brought home. We reached Pipiriki about dark & pitched the tent. Mrs Howard of Pipiriki House who is Charley Ferry's sister, kindly lent us some mattresses & so we had a comfortable night. Downes' muttonstew devoured by dog during night. March 5 (Thurs). Fine. Before breakfast, Downes, Charley & I climbed high hill in search of ravine used by Maoris as burial ground for the warriors killed in battle. This ravine reckoned to be 1200 ft deep, but we failed to locate it, although we must have been close to it. It is now very overgrown with scrub & hard to find & so is rather dangerous. As the river was too low for us to go any further up river in the launch we got the loan of a dinghy from Mrs Howard & went on in that. Had to tow the boat over Paparoa Rapid which is very swift. After that it was fairly easy going. Charley rowed. We reached the caves about 12 & had a good look at them & it was well worth the trouble. Frank, "Napoleon" & Downes took several photos of the'', also of famous "drop scene" which is close by. Returned to Pipiriki without mishap although there were some exciting times going down the rapids, notably Paparoa which Charley & Downes negotiated alone. We all treated ourselves to a shave which we were much in need of. March 6 (Frid). Fine. Hung about until nearly mid-day before leaving. Had to effect some repairs to the canoe. Stayed at Runana again in the woolshed - very comfortable. March 7 (Sat). Fine. Frank took several photos on Mr McGregor's run - sawmill, woolshed, yards etc. Left about 11 o'clock leaving Morrison here. Had an exciting time when the canoe got foul of a rock & we had a great job to get her off. I had to strip off & get into the water & help by pulling on the rope. Fortunately there was no damage done. Reached Ahuahu about dusk without further incident. March 8 (Sunday). Fine & a really beautiful day. A good "run" down river. Dinner at Parakino where we landed to see a footprint of a Maori woman on a rock who, according to legend jumped off the rock over a gorge to es.cape from her husband. We climbed a high hill to see this & there was a faint resem­blance to a foot on the rock. We picked up two passengers here - Frank Gibson (cousin of Vernie & Tui Gibson of Kai Koura) 7- Ryan, a young giant married to a Maori woman. We landed them down river & on each occasion of restarting we had considerable trouble to get the engine to go - the second occasion taking about 1½ hours. We had tea about 6 o'clock where there was a tremendous amount of fruit - guiness & apples of which we brought away a big quantity. On account of the delays in restarting the engine we did not reach Wanganui until about 10 o'clock & as we had to get the boat unloaded & snug, besides having supper & a walk of 2 miles. Frank & I reached Dune Hill about 12.30am. very dirty & tired. Thus ended one of the most enjoyable trips I ever had. March 9 (Mon). Fine. In Wanganui in morning. Went to visit Marjory & Vivian Adkin at Girls' College. Afternoon went for a motor ride with Mrs Schmidt & mother & Ethel up St Johns Hill, & round Castlecliff. Very enjoyable. Evening Misses Bevan & Mr - up to tea. Went home with Misses B. afterwards. Home midnight. March 10 (Tues). Fine. Packed up & left by mail train for Levin. Miss Bowles to meet me. Everything alright. April 5 (Sunday). Fine but dull, I took all the children to Church in morning. Rev. Harris's last Sunday. E.W.J. Smith & Miss Lancaster came back to dinner & tea. Drove them home in evening. April 9 (Thurs). Left for Hastings by mail train. Previous to leaving home I discovered a case of "gid" among the young ewes, ( two-tooth) so I took her down to Bullimans slaughterhouse & delivered her to Hearle. Big crowd travelling - arrived at Hastings without incident. April 10 (Friday). Good Friday. Fine stayed about house at Laurie's in morning. Laurie & I went for a bike ride in afternoon & attended service held by Mormons at Maori Pa in huge tent. April 11 (Saturday) Fine. "Loafed" around in morning. Took a walk round Hastings in afternoon with Nell & Laurie. April 12 (Sunday). Fine. Laurie & I biked to Havelock & walked to top of Havelock Hills. Beautiful view of surrounding country. Tukituki Valley, Napier & Hastings flat. Afternoon Edwin James took us all for a motor drive to Taradale. Stayed at home in evening while Nell & Laurie went to Church. April 13 (Monday). Fine. Ed James took us by motor to Clive Grange - also Mr & Mrs Pickering. Had 2 swims. ... Laurie & I chased goats on hills but failed to catch any. --- Home at dark. 500 April 14 (Tues). Fine. Ne... & I went to Napier for the day. Hung about beach in morning ... afternoon.

April 15 (Wed). Dull & --- day but heavy rain at night. Came home at 3.50 Miss Bowles to ...

April 19 (Sunday) Miss Bowles & children went to Church in morning. We all tooka walk up hill in afternoon & brought home a nikau palm which I plantedin front of house. Church in evening. New minister Rev. Abbey. April 29 (Wed). Fine, drove to Levin in dray taking a dozen posts. (pukatea) to Mr G.P. Brown's place (paid 3/-) brought back 22 gals of tar from Channings at 7½d gal, also a little river sand. Afternoon I cleaned up paths ready for ashphalting. April 30 (Thurs). Afternon put a coat of tar on front path. Lost about a gallon of tar through it catching alight. May 5 (Tues) Asphalted back yard & side path. Rev. Abbey & wife called. May 6 (Wed). Evening. Horticultural Show, Met Frank Mason May 7 (Thurs). Went shooting - no luck. Miss Bowles brought back exhibits from Show. 1 first & 1 second prize. Election of School Committee in evening. Big crowd. Old committee practically re-elected. May 9 (Saturday). Afternoon I rode over to Foxton to see Alb. Kellow, Took about 2 hours to go over on young mare. May 10 (Sunday) Fine. Walked round loxton wharf in morning. Afternoon took Mrs Kellow for a drive while Alb went to Church. Left for home about 9.30 & reached home about midnight. May 11 (Mon).

Fine. First thing had a visit from Adkin's boy - Came over to tell me that 2 dogs were worrying my sheep in front sect. 12. Went down & found 5 already dead - drowned in creek & 2 dying. Les traced one dog to Mr Duncan's place on McDonald Rd, but lost sight of the other one. I also found 5 lambs had been worried down by floodgate. Decided to try to locate the black/white dog but had to give up after big walk. Called at Duncan's place on the way home and found he had already shot his dog. He came over with me to view the damage. Spent most of the afternoon available skinning the sheep. Evening Les & I had a search round Arapacpae Rd for missing dog without result. May 12 (Tues). Afternoon Les & I took a big trip at far as Ikarare's Nesorve & Potts Rd to try to locate the black & white dog without success. Afternoon tea at Mrs Simpsons.. Home at 7.30 very tired. Duncan came with his dray & took away the carcasses for pig food. May 15 (Friday) Willie Stewart & I rode to Shannon to sale but there was nothing to suit us. Home at dark very wet. May 20 (Wed) Took Clare & Dora to Miss Duff's dance. Enjoyable but got tired. May 24 (Sun). Fine Did not go out in morning. Afternoon we all drove to Mrs McLeavey's at OhaLG Miss Bowles brought children home & went to Stewart McKenzie's to tea & afterwards to Church. June 2 (Tuesday) Evening took Clare & Dora to Euchre Party at Miss McKegg's rooms by Ladies Shakespeare Club. Very enjoyable evening. June 4 (Thurs). Mrs McLeavey & Miss McLeavey & Mrs McIntyre drove up to lunch & Mr & Mrs Matheson & Mrs & Miss Gardener motored up in evening. June 7 (Sunday) Fine. Went up Ohau River with Les to see his farm. Had a good look round & found place considerably improved since ) was up there last. Church in evening June 12 (Friday) Went to Wellington by Napier Express to "Fern Hill" June 13 (Saturday) Cold & showery. About town in morning. Athletic Park in afternoon. Athletic, 9, Petone 6. Very hard game. Athletic won on the call of time. Went with Percy to Savage Club. General Godley in chair - excellent programme. Met a good many old school-fellows. "Dandies" sang quartettes. "Simple Simon" and "A Soldier's Farewell" Very good. June 14 (Sunday) Cold & drizzling. Took Mother to St John's, Communion, Dr Gibb. Impressive service. Home in afternoon. Went to see Alice in evening June 15 (Mon). Fine. Home by first train June 16 (Tues) Mr & Mrs Stewart came in afternoon. Mr S. & I walked up Turnip paddock. Arm rather sore - poisoned thumb June 19 (Friday) Went to Mathesons to tea & evening. Arm very sore. Keedwell dressed it & gave me tonic June 20 (Sat). Went to Levin in afternoon & paid sundry accounts Football match - Horowhenua 17 beat Manawatu 3 easily. Good game. June 21 (Sunday) Went to funeral of Mrs V. Haste in afternoon. Adkins to tea in evening. Perc. & Alice staying there on holiday June 24 (Wednesday) Finished crutching. Evening - very tired so after having hot bath retired to bed. Poisoned arm became very sore again June 26 (Fri) Afternoon - went on voyage of debt collecting for Church with Sorensen. Fairly successful. Spent evening with Mr & Mrs Porteous. June 27(Sat). Football in afternoon. Weraroa 9 defeated Levin nil. D.S. McKenzie's in evening June 28 (Sun) Did not go from home. Mr & Mrs Edwards up in afternoon July 3 (Friday) Drove down with the Adkins to Reform Meeting at Century Hall July 5 (Sunday) Fine. Took all the children to Church & brought Perc. & Alie home to dinner. We all took a walk to the turnip paddock in afternoon. Tea & evening at Adkins July 6 (Monday) 3rd anniversary of Jen's death July 7 (Tuesday) Took 1 bale of crutchings & 25 sheepskins to Parker & Vincent 23 skins - 841bs gross 2 damp. Stayed in town for male choir - went with Foss to Mr Lancasters to tea. Home late. July 8 (Wed). Evening concert by Ladies Auxiliary. Good programme, successful concert, crowded house - Male Choir gave four glees. Met Harris July 11 (Saturday) Joe Edgar who worked for me some five or six years ago came up to see me & stayed to dinner. Grown fine big strapping boy & married. Afternoon very wet - oiled harness. Enid in bed with bad cold. July 13 (Monday) Fine. Duncan came over to work to pay off loss of sheep worried by his dog on 11 May. We worked on terrace clearing up Pukatea. He put in 5 hrs. July 17 (Friday) Evening - Surprise Party at Adkins by Mrs Cork. About 2 dozen there, very enjoyable. Jjuly 22 (Wednesday) Beautiful day Rode to Shannon to clearing sale by Ross & Mowbray. Good crowd & good prices. Evening went to Miss Duff's Dance. Very good. July 26 (Sunday) Miss Bowles & children went to church in morning. All drove to Adkins in afternoon. Percy up from town visiting Alice. Stayed tor tea & evening. July 31 (Friday) Evening, meeting of Reform Party Aug. 2 (Sunday) Did not go out in morning - Around sheep. Smarts came up to dinner & I drove them home in evening. Went to Presbyterian Church with D.S. McKenzie. Aug. 4 (Tues). War declared between England & Germany. Aug. 11 (Tues). Parade of National Reserves at Drill Hall in evening. Big crowd of men. Formed mounted & foot companies. In the mounted squadron I was elected lieutenant in charge & Guy Kingdon Sergt-Major. In the footmen Tom Brown lieutenant. Lodge Sergt-Major. War between Germany & Britain & Allies in full swing. Germany sustained several losses. Aug. 12 (Wed) Rode to McLeavey's to practise song for Patriotic Concert on Friday. Miss McLeavey to play accompaniment. Aug. 14 (Friday) Levin Sale - very dull. Drop of about 2/- Patriotic Concert in evening. Big crowd & successful. I sang in Male Choir twice also sang a solo, "Admiral's Broom" fairly well Aug. 15 (Saturday) Afternoon 1st parade mounted of National Reserves under my command. About 40 on parade & a very good drill. McKenzies to tea & evening.

Aug. 17 (Monday) Germany getting the worst of the war so far Aug. 19 (Wednesday) Afternoon went to Levin to Farmers meeting for War Fund. Evening foot parade of Mounted National Defence Corps. Blenkhorn elected sergt7major vice, G.H. Kingdon resigned Aug. 22 (Saturday) Parade of Mounted Reserves in afternoon. Also short drill in evening Aug. 23 (Sunday) Stewart's in afternoon to see water wheel which is running successfully Church in evening. Aug. 24 (Monday) Fine. Round sheep. Put in rest of the day canvassing for Relief Fund. Gorringe took me with him in his car. Fairly successful. Dance to farewell volunteers for the war in the evening. Very enjoyable. Aug. 25 (Tues) Mudgway leasing W.H. Denton's Levin section from 'today for 1 month at 1/6 per week (paid in advance) Aug. 27 (Thurs) Euchre party at Miss Wilson's Aug. 29 (Sat). Drill in afternoon. Poor turnout Sept. 1 (Tues) Germans steadily advancing into France. Allies stubbornly resisting. NZ Expeditionary Force took Samoa without resistance. Sept. 4 (Friday) Fine. Garmers' Gift Auction Sale. Big crowd & very successful. Should realize £250. Worked off raffle for Lady's coat given by Miss Eyes & it brought £7/2/- and was won by Mr Winiata Sept. 5 (Saturday) Afternoon went to parade - about 20 there. Tea & evening at Mrs D.S. McKenzie's Sept. 11 (Friday) Went to Ohau & Eric McLeavey's 21st birthday. Pleasant evening. Sept. 13 (Sun). Fine. Miss Bowles & children to Church. Mr & Mrs Sorensento dinner. Mr & Mrs S. MacKenzie up in afternoon. Church in evening. Will H.D. up from Wellington staying at Cheslyn Rise. Called to see him. Sept. 15 (Tues) Will Annie & Adkin round to tea & evening Sept. 16 (Wed) Beautiful day. Gilbert came over to help me dock Sept. 20 (Sun) Miss Bowles & children to Church. I went in evening & then to "Cheslyn Rise". Edith staying there. Sept. 21 (Mon) Children fell off pony - sent home from school Sept. 29 (Tues) Mrs McKenzie, Mrs Simpson Jnr & Miss Ratter up to dinner. Town in evening for waxworks Sept. 30 (Wed) H.C. Gapper took delivery of posts for H.J. Richards. Evening - town No parade - only a few turned up. Oct. 1 (Thursday) War going on very satisfactorily. Germans having bad time & retreating steadily. Oct. 2 (Fri) I cleaned out woodlshed & enlarged woolroom. Edith staying home. Oct. 3 (Sat) Went up to rifle club in afternoon to shoot in match - mounted men v. rifle club, 200 & 500 yards. Did fairly well especially at latter range where I got 3 "bulls". Rifle Club won. Edith & I drove to town in evening. Oct. 4 (Sunday) Fine. Edith & I & children went to Church in morning. Walked up on terrace in afternoon. Les came over & stayed to tea. Oct. 8 (Thurs). Fine. Shearing. Mustered shorn "tops" & put them back on turnips. Evening - concert in aid of Church. Ran waxworks fairly successfully, also took part in Dame Durden which was a great success. Good house & concert very good on whole; also sang in two quartettes. Oct. 12 (Mon) Germans beseiged Antwerp & the Belgians evactuated it last Friday. Germans now in possession. Oct. 18 (Sunday) Round house most of the day. Mrs Gardener & Mrs McIntyre up in afternoon. Church Oct. 20 (Tues) Savage Club Practice in evening Oct. 25 (Sun) Did not go out except to Church in evening. Mathesons & Smarts
up in afternoon. Church & speech by McCombs on No Licence Oct. 26 (Mon) Fine after light shower. Up at Sam & brought horses from Stewarts. Duncan came over & helped me plough in potatoes about 41 bags. Had to get a few from Willie S. Plowed part of far end. Mudgway & cousin helped to plant spuds 2/- each. Oct. 28 (Wed) Evening "Ladies Night" by the Savage Club. I performed in Campfire scene & sang in quartette. Nov. 2 (Mon) Patriotic Committee meeting also Ratepayers. (Fri) Fine in morning. Went with Willie Stewart to Palmerston Show. Big crowd. Rain in afternoon. Very good rain in Levin afternoon & evening. Miss Stewarts to tea & evening. Nov. 8 (Sun) Fine, drove young mare in phaeton to Church for first time. Open bridle. Went well. Children & I walked to Adkins in afternoon & to tea. Nov. 11 (Wed) Miss Bowles away all day at Anglican Bazaar. I went down in evening to vote for Horowhenua County Council:- Ratter, Broadbelt, Kebbell, Richards & J.C. Neill. First 3 elected. Evening at Stewart Mackenzie's. Home in heavy rain. Nov. 13 (Fri) German cruiser "Emden" sunk by Australian boat "Sydney". Great enthusiasm over it. Nov. 16 About 8.30am. I heard commotion among the horses & found that Adkin's cart horse had kicked "Jack" on the foreleg above the knee & broken it badly. Went over to Willie Stewarts & got him to come over to look at it. We decided that it would be best to shoot the old horse as there would be little chance of his recovery. Poor old horse - a bad finish after a very faithful service extending over 10 years. All of us very sorry to lose him in this way. Nov. 17 (Tues) Miss Bowles had a gift afternoon tea in aid of Belgian Fund. Very successful I believe. About 120 stockings & socks given. Nov. 20 (Fri) Let W.H. Denton's paddock to Wood (living opposite) at 1/6 per week in advance for 3 months. Over to Adkins in evening to see Ethel Denton also Kate. Nov. 22 (Sunday) Church Anniversary Church in morning. Sang in choir. Went to Adkin's to see Ethel Denton in afternoon. Church in evening. Very severe earthquake about 7.45pm. Caused sensation in Church. Nov. 27 (Fri) Very rough rain & wind. Odd jobs. Field's political meeting. Crowded house. Dec. 8 (Tues) Commenced to put up dip yards. Excellent totara posts. Dec. 9 (Wed). Continued at dip in morning. Carted boulders in afternoon. Evening final meetings of Field & Robertson. Big audiences. Dec. 10 (Thurs) Election Day. Worked at dip. Went down to vote at 5.30pm & stayed down all evening. Robertson badly beaten by Field by 600 odd votes. Massey Govt lost 5 seats & gained.about 5. Position very uncertain. British squadron in South Pacific sunk 3 German cruisers - Scharnhorst, Gneisenau & Leipsig & 2 others being chased. Dec. 13 (Sun) I took all children to Church in morning. Vivian came home to dinner. Rain in afternoon & continued heavily all evening. Dec. 16 (Wed) School children's concert - Enid singing in chorus. Auntie took children & Auntie Kate. I looked after Jack who was rather "seedy" Dec. 24 (Thurs)

Afternoon, George & I went to Wellington by Napier Mail & .stayed in town over Christmas coming home on Monday 28th by evening train. Willie Stewart met us & drove us home.

Jan. 1 Thurs.

Fine. We all went to picnic at Ohau River, top Kimberley Road. Rev and Mrs Davies, Mrs Kirkcaldie and Mrs Vickers there, enjoyable day.

Jan. 2 Fri.

Ladies and George went to Vickers party. Jan. 3 Sat.

Jack returned from Paraparaumu. Jan. 4 Sun.

Fine. We took Edith and Kate to Paraparaumu for the day.Left George and John behind as no room in car. Had a splendid time. Visited Mr and Mrs Stewart who are staying there in Miss Dalrymple's house which is a very fine one. Had a couple of swims and wandered round the beach. Left about 5.30 and took 2 hours to reach home. Road very rough and full of pot holes. Jan. 5 Mon.

Afternoon we took Edith and Kate up to see power house at Mangaore. Engineer in charge showed us round. On return we left Edith and Kate at Cheslyn Rise. Jan. 7 Wed. George's college friend Leo Carter arrived from Palmerston Nth to stay with us. Evening Shirley, George, Leo and I went to see Annette Kellerman in 'Venus of South Seas'. Picture disappointing. Jan. 8 Thurs. Boys made bathing hole - Port bros assisting. Out shooting in evening. Jan. 9 Fri. Fine and hot. We all went to Hokio Beach for the day. Took Aunty Mary with us and picnicked in Vickers' cottage. Had 2 swims. Jan. 10 Sat. Fine. Took in hay which was in tip top order and good quality stuff. Had a good gang on. Leo on rake, George, Willie Stewart and Fulton carting, Percy and I pitching. Bert Port, Peter and Jack in shed. Had a very successful day and finished at about 4 pm. I returned Adkins cart in evening. Jan. 12 Mon. George and Enid went to Palmerston Nth with Leo Carter to stay a couple of days. Jan. 13 Tues. Shirley, John and 1 went to town. I went to funeral of Mrs B.R.6ardener. Bearers consisted of Levin old resident. E.S. Lancaster, E.G. Roe, H. Denton, W.6. Vickers, D.S. Mackenzie. Jan. 17 Sat. Went with Shirley to town in afternoon. Bought new suit at Mathesons. Power Board staff putting in poles. Jan. 21 Wed. Linemen finished wiring here. I cut down bamboo to clear line to house. Afternoon cleared up branches cut down by linemen. Mrs Tully and Mrs Biss up in afternoon. Infantile paralysis prevalent throughout North Island. A few cases at Levin. Howard Kemps little girl taken to Palmerston Nth today. George took car to Levin to have starting handle repaired. Jan. 25 Sun. At home until 5 pm. when I took the family for a run to Ohau in the car. George and Enid went to Church of England. Jan. 27 Tues. Shirley brought Cecil and Ella Beckett up for afternoon tea and evening. Will Beckett also up for short while after tea. Jan. 28 Wed.

Enid's 20th birthday.

Feb. 5 Thurs. Went to Feilding by New Plymouth express. Alb Kellow met me and after lunch we went to showgrounds to Ram Fair. Met Watty Booth of 27th N.Z.M.R. and 2nd Squadron and he invited me to spend night with him and as Vi Kellow was ill,. I accepted. Watty and I went out with Alf Duthie who kindly drove us in his car. Watty took me over a good portion of his farm and showed me his stock. Spent evening with Watty and his wife, sister and father, and after the visitors went Watty and I talked till 1.30 am. Feb.7 Sat. Afternoon Shirley drove me to station and I brought home the new rams. Rams travelled well Home about 7 pm. Feb.10 Tues. Infantile paralysis still unabated. Mr Adams' girl and Harry George's boy both sent to hospital. Feb. 18 Wed. In evening Shirley and I went to town to be examined for motoring driving test. Mr W.N. Anderson took us over the course and we both managed alright. Drove down to see Ray and Dorrie. Feb. 20 Fri. Mr Mitchell of Manson and Barr commenced to install motor to drive shearing plant. George and I assisted part of day W.G. Vickers came to look at lambs - said they were the best shorn lambs that he had drafted this year. Electric light switched on for first time. Feb. 28 Sat. Shirley and I went to town in afternoon. I went to A & P Society meeting. Decided to abandon show this year. Having shop day to raise funds. March. 5 Thurs. Very wet day. George and I cleared out and renewed oil in car. Shirley and I went to town in the afternoon. Accelerator repaired at Sawtells. March. 12 Thurs. Shirley and I went to station to meet Polly Beckett and Miss Hanna from Waimate. March.13 Fri. In morning Mr WA. McCulloch of the Agriculture Dept. came up to see me re experimental topdressing of hill pastures. March. 15 Sun. Shirley, Polly, Miss Hanna, George and I went to church. Afternoon I took the ladies up to the settling tanks and afterwards to Waiopehu Reserve. March. 16 Man. Amy Ward and Adkin girls over. March. 19 Thurs. Willie Stewart and I went canvassing for subs and donations for A & P Society. Had successful day. Did not get home till dark. March. 20 Fri. Enid and Vivian went to Wellington for day. Back by car with Sawtell. March. 21 Sat. I took ladies to town in afternoon. Meeting of Committee of A & P Assn when lists of donations were put in. March. 22 Sun. Afternoon I took ladies down Buller Rd to Papiatonga Lake through bush track - very pretty. George and Enid went to church in evening. March. 24 Tues. Up early. Delivered 54 fat lambs to railways yards. Went up to Levin sale where A & P Assn were holding sale of gift stock and also having a shop. Very successful day - gathered in about 200 pounds worth. Enid passed test for driving March. 25 Wed. Shirley, Miss Hanna and I went to picture 'The Ten Commandments' - very good. March. 26 Thurs. Enid, Polly and George went to pictures. March. 28 Sat. Shirley not too well. March. 29 Sun. Fine. Up late. Dr Bryson up to see Shirley about 2 pm. Shirley and I had been walking round in morning and she was pretty well. Dr stayed with Shirley and her baby boy was born at 5 pm. Shirley came through it fairly well although has severe haemorage. Boy weighs 8 pound 8 ounces and seems to be good sample. Shirley much improved by bed time. March. 30 Mon. Shirley and baby getting on well. April. 1 Wed.

Shirley and baby getting on well. Hosts of congratulations. April. 4 Sat. Up early intending to go to Palmerston Nth to meeting of provincial delegates of Farmers' Union. Enid took me to Arapaepae corner where I waited for Hotchen's bus but I missed it as it went by Fairfield. Decided to come home and work. April. 8 Wed. Afternoon I went to Wellington with Billy Wilson, Doris and Miss Frechling in his Vauxhall car which he brought from London. Car went very well but would not climb on top gear. Splendid view from too of Paekakariki Hill. Reached town about 5 pm. and I went to Fern Hill. Found Edith and Katie among the ruins of the house which is being altered into flats. Will and Edith went to Debate so I went with Percy and Alice to comic opera 'The Lady and the Rose'. Very fair. April. 9 Thurs. Down town in morning. W. H. Bennett kindly took me through City Council's Milk Depot. A very interesting hour, showing various processes the milk goes through. Edith and Kate left for Levin. I went to tea at "Allenville" and after to Fullers with Alice. Poor show. Walked down to Percy's shop. Home after midnight. Bed 2.30 am. April. 10 Fri. Good Friday. Skylarking with kids. Met Billy Wilson at Courtenay Place at 1 pm. and we came back to Levin reaching here about 4 pm. Doris and Mr and Mrs Jock Pringle and daughter travelled with us. Enid and two children came down in car. Home just at dark. April. 11 Sat. Went down with George to Country A.A. championship meeting held at Levin Domain. A lot of competitors from outside districts. Meeting spoilt by rain. Masterton had easily the best team and won most of events. April. 12 Easter Sunday. Polly, Enid, George went to church in morning. Shirley sat up in chair most of morning looking well but rather pale. Cold day. Afternoon Edith and Kate, Marjorie and George, Viv and Agnes over to see Shirley and baby. Didn't stay too long. Evening Polly, Enid and I went to church. Guy Beckett up to tea. April. 13 Mon. Shirley up on back verandah good part of day. April. 16 Thurs. I took Shirley, Polly, Nurse and children to Levin. Paid a lot of bills. April. 19 Sun. At home all day. Mr and Mrs Kernohan drove to see us in afternoon. April. 23 Thurs. Polly and I went with Billy Wilson, Amy and Doris for motor trip to Wanganui started 10 am. Wanganui 12.30, lunch D.I.C. Polly and I visited Ethel and Frank for a little while. Left Wanganui 4 pm. Levin 7 pm. Lights failed about5 miles out and had to come in slowly behind Lowe's bus. April. 24 Fri. Sid Sievers of A & W came up to look at my bullocks but could no see the value in them so did no business. Guy Marriott up to tea and evening. Tried to sell be shares in Afforestation Company Mamuku 20 shares at 1 pound estimated to produce 400 pounds in 24 to 30 years. Mainly investment for children. April. 25 Sat. Anzac Day. Went to Anzac service in afternoon and evening. Sang 'Comrades in Arms' in quartette (Taylor, Jones, Mottershead, Denton) April. 26 Sun. Mr and Mrs Hamilton up in evening. April. 30 Thurs. Shirley and Polly took baby Paul with them to Feilding to see Dr Phillips re circumcision. They are staying with Mrs Hassell an old friend of theirs from Waimate. I went to the station with them. Hobson defeated Goldsmith for Levin mayoralty. Norwood Mayor of Wellington. Election yesterday. May. 1 Fri. Shirley rang up in evening from Feilding to say they are not coming back till Tuesday next. Operation on Paul took place today and was successful but doctor will not let them travel yet. May. 2 Sat. Afternoon went to Annual Meeting Levin branch of Farmers' Union. Poor attendance. Was elected to position of President for coming year. Very reluctant to take it on but eventually decided to. May. 3 Sun.

John went to Bible Class - church. Intended to go to Stewarts in afternoon but it rained very heavily. Dorothy Anne not up to the mark. May. 4 Mon. Dorothy Anne very unwell. Rang Shirley at Feilding but they were not able to catch train home today. Coming tomorrow. Spent afternoon in front bedroom with Dorothy Anne in front of good fire. May. 5 Tues. Spent morning with Dorothy Anne. Went to station to meet Shirley, Polly and Paul came home in very heavy shower. May. 7 Thurs. Sent away a box of apples to Mrs Hassell of Feilding. Shirley, Lois and I met train and brought Mary Beckett home with us. May. 8 Fri.

Evening Hamilton took me in company with K.E. Adams and O.Whitehouse up to Shannon to R.S.A. reunion. Good turnout. May. 9 Sat. George went to football. Paraparaumu beat Wanderers II 57-0. Polly went to Palmerston Nth for the day. May. 10 Sun. At home all day. George took Auntie Mary and Polly to church in morning and brought Willie Beckett back. Billy Wilson and Doris up in afternoon. Rt. Hon. W.F. Massey Prime Minister died 5.40 pm. after long illness. May. 11 Mon. Met the train from Wellington. Helen Beckett came up for the day and stayed with us. May. 12 Tues. Took Helen and Auntie Mary to town and later to train. Went to Levin Sale. May. 14 Thurs. All work suspended on account of funeral of Rt. Hon Massey. Special trains ran to Wellington for funeral. Afternoon Shirley, Mary and I went to station to meet Mrs Baxter who stayed the night with us going on south with Polly. May. 15 Fri. Wet. Oiled up car and did odd jobs in morning. Afternoon Mary and I took Polly and Mrs Baxter to Napier Mail on their way south. May. 16 Sat. George and I mended trap shed in morning. Afternoon we went to Levin. Weraroa drew with Shannon. Fair game. George playing for Wanderers juniors and lost to Weraroa II 6 to nil. May. 20 Wed. Wet day. Not feeling very -fit so stayed in bed. May. 21 Thurs. Still wet. Up late. In house all day. Should have gone to Farmers Union Ball at Ohau - also Savage Club opening night but sent apologies. May. 26 Tues. R.S.A. meeting in evening. Shirley spent evening with Mrs Ken Biss. May. 30 Sat. Took Shirley and Lois to Levin. Football Hui Mai 11 6 beat Wanderers II 3. George playing. May. 31 Sun. Fine afternoon. Went to see Willie Stewart and afterwards took Shirley, Lois and Anne to see Mr and Mrs Hamilton. George and Enid to Church of England. June. 1 Mon.

J.G. Coates appointed Premier. June. 3 Wed. King's birthday. Shirley, Lois, and D.A. took me to station when I went to Masterton to attend provincial Conference Farmers' Union. Travelled with Alf McLeavey and Reg. Tippler and Mr O.P. Lynch. Ran into rain when we reached Woodville and it continued rest of the journey. Arrived at Master-ton about 4 pm. and walked to Mr C.E. Daniell's house 'Mathon Lodge'. Most of the family away at Napier seeing football match Hawkes Bay 23 v. Waiararapa 3. Evening went to pictures with Miss Daniell, Mrs L. Daniell, Mrs Free and young lady. Poor show. June. 4 Thurs. Wet. Attended Conference 9 am. to 12.30. Good attendance and good meeting. Did not have any remits to propose. Len and party arrived back from H.B. 4 pm. Tea party of all D. family. Len and I went to complimentary 'Smoke-oh' in evening. Very good turn out. Met Harry Hall who used to go to Willis Street School with me 36 years ago. He is a great entertainer and amused us immensely. Masterton Savage Club gave us some excellent items. Home 12.30 am. June. 5 Fri.

Fine. Looked up Jack De Castro at Levin and Co. office and had a yarn with him. Also met Jack Staples. Rang up Eddie Payton and Mrs Jack Patham. Conference all day. Len Daniell in great talking form and held the floor. Had photo taken in group. Evening I was driven round by Miss Ethel D. to see Mrs Smith and Mrs Eric Hodder. Talking with Mr D. till 12 pm. June. 6 Sat. Fine. Went up town to look at shearing plant at Donald Donalds also Booth MacDonald distributors and another one in Farmers' Exchange. Afterward drove round with Mr D. to mill and new building. Left for home 11.20 am. and after dismal journey arrived Levin 5 o'clock. Shirley and Lois met me. Levin Races today. Big crowd about. June. 7 Sun. Wet in afternoon. Took family down to Church of England to have Paul Mowbray christened by Rev. Davies. Boy behaved himself well. Heavy rain on the way home. June. 8 Mon.

Wet morning. Took George to railway as he is going to Farm School at Masterton. June. 10 Wed. Went to Palmerston Nth with Hamilton to Wellington Mounted Rifles Reunion. Very good affair. Met Brigadier Young,. Andy Hughes, Jack Morgan, Mackay Snelling, Watty Booth and many others. Heard from Brig. Young that Fib o Fletcher had just recently died from appendicitus. Home round Foxton way bringing with us Charlie Webb and Everton. Home 1.45 a.m. Mr and Mrs Hamilton stayed all night. June. 11 Thurs. Fine. Up late. Hamiltons left 10.30. John in bed with bout of flu. June. 12 Fri. Wet day. Shirley bad cold so stayed in bed. Enid off colour also and stayed about house all day. June. 14 Sun. Cold and wet. At home all day. Mrs Vickers brought Mrs Stansell, Mrs Raper and children up to see us in the afternoon. June. 16 Tues. George returned from Masterton via Wellington. June. 18 Thurs. George went in dray to Levin and brought home 18 eight foot iron and 8 seven foot for cart shed and repair woolshed 4 4" m 1 1/2 purlins. Finished shed in afternoon. Evening went to Savage Club. Initiation of Chief Savage Jones. I took part of "knucklebone." I took Stuart Mackenzie as guest. Only fair programme. June. 19 Fri. Fine. George and I took down part of the west wall of woolshed and replaced rustic with corrugated iron. Making fair job. Evening Miss Grebe Wallace, Dudley Brown and Eric Vickers up for tea and evening.. June. 20 Sat. I went in car to Palmerston Nth with Mr and Mrs Peter Stewart. Arrived 10 am. and looked around implement Co's for lime distributors. Saw Booth McDonalds which we liked very well. Also went to see Reid and Gray and another. Willie and I decided to go partners in a distributor but so far have not decided on the make. Price runs at 37/10/- less E7/. cash. Afterwards we spent a couple of hours at show looking at implements. Met several people we knew. A J Kellow and family. Mr and Mrs Raper. June. 21 Sun. Shirley, Lois and I went to Church. Katie came home with us and stayed to tea and went to church with Enid and George. June. 22 Mon. Showery. Pulled down rest of west wall of woolshed and rebuilt the wood work. Had to get 3 mare sheets of 8 foot iron to finish. Jack's birthday. Had visitors for tea. Katie and Clare Adkin, Mr and Mrs Peter Stewart. Peter not well so Mr and Mrs S. left early. Charades. June. 23 Tues. I bought 98 shorn haggetts at 21/10. George brought them home. I bought 3 sheets of iron (8 foot) from K. Shaws - tied on car. However, car not going well so had to leave it in town for repairs. Sawtell lent me a Chevrolet for our use in the mean while. Ran very well. Drove down to reunion of R.S.A. at St. Marys' Hall. Dinner and smoke concert. Fifty odd present and fairly good turnout. Sang a couple of songs. Home after 12.30. June. 24 Wed. Drove down with Willie S. to Ohau to look at Reid and Gray distributor owned by Nicholas and Page. Fair machine but we rather fancied Booth and McDonald. June. 25 Thurs. Wet. George swotted. I worked around woolshed. Afternoon took Shirley and Paul to see Plunket Nurse. Paul rather off-colour. June. 26 Fri. Afternoon Willie and I went over to see Ron Law's R and Gray distributor - not going too well, manure damp. Mr and Mrs Lancaster and Mr and Mrs E.W.J. Smith and family drove up to see us in afternoon. June. 27 Sat. Had a long talk with W.G.A re his domestic matters but apparently to no effect. Took Shirley to town - renewed conversation with Adkin family. Home late. Foxton beat Wanderers 3-0. Came home in Todd's car and had bad blow out top of Queen Street.Willie came to rescue but eventually had to come home on flat tyre. 30 Tues. George went to town to get horse shod for territorial camp. Walter Carter and Leo came up to look at bullocks. July. 1 Wed. Wet day. Had a visit from Murray Roberts. agent in morning. Also Sawtell called re car. Old Maxwell not worth spending more money on +or repairs which would run into 15 pounds at least so decided to go in for latest improved Chevrolet 250 pounds, solid wheels, balloon tyres. 100 pounds inside a month. Remainder over le months 6 1/27.. Afternoon took Lois and Anne to town. Transfer P.O. account to Palmerston Nth. Also withdrawl 100 pounds. George left for Feilding at 6.30 am. to go into Camp for week's training. Rode Clifford's black pony. July. 2 Thurs Afternoon I took the family to town shopping and to see Mrs Hitchcock. July. 3 Fri. Afternoon Will S. and I went down to see a Booth and McDonald distributor working on the settlement at Mr Fiffe's place. Manure seemed to run satisfactorily so we decided to take the machine at 37/10/- plus clock 2 pounds less 5 % discount for cash. July. 6 Mon. Shirley and I spent evening at Cheslyn Rise on occasion at Katie's birthday. Saw paper that Mr C.E.Daniell's mill burnt down. July. 7 Tues. Fine. H.Hossack took delivery of 7 tons of superphosphate 447. 467. supplied by Agricultural Dept. for experimental hill top dressing. Packed it in motor shed as road to woolshed too wet. July. 8 Wed. George returned home from Camp. Levin Section won Hunterville cup for best all round troop. July. 11 Sat. Fine. I sowed manure all day. 7 hours. Willie helped for about 4 hours. George sledging for about 6 hours. Horses found it hard work. July. l5 Wed. Fine George and I put in whole day making track up low hill. Good grade. Very tired - bed early. July. 17 Fri. Enid went to Otaki Golf Ball with Dudley Brown. Stayed at Wall aces. July. 18 Sat. Enid home 9.30 am. and went back to town in evening. July. 19 Sun. Up late very tired. Shirley and I and children drove down as far as Mrs Batholomews in afternoon. Church of England in the evening. July. 23 Thurs. Beryl Bliss up for the day. July. 24 Fri. Very wet. George spent day swotting. I did odd carpentry jobs in woolshed. Miss Hitchcock came up for weekend. July. 25 Sat. George pruning apple trees. Football in the afternoon. Hui Mai S Wanderers 3. July.2 6 Sun. Fine Shirley Miss Hitchcock, Lois, Anne and 1 went for drive in car and eventually reached Foxton. Called on Mrs and Mies Ross who are friends of the Hitchcocks and who kindly gave us tea. When we almost reached Levin on return journey we ran out of benzine and I had to borrow a tin from Mr Mat Suhan who kindly assisted us to start again. Home 6.30. July. 29 Wed. Evening Shirley and I went to pictures "North of 36" Very fair. Met young Sweet of 27th NZMR - staying with young Eric Vickers. July. 30 Thurs. Evening Dudley Brown, Eric Vickers, and Sweet spent a few hours with us and we talked of army life. Aug. 1 Sat. I caught first train to Palmerston Nth to attend monthly meeting of Provincial Farmers' Union. Travelled with Tippler and Clifford (Manakau) Not much business and all over by 12 o'clock, so caught Napier Express back to Levin arriving at 2 pm. Went to football.County 14 Weraroa 5 Poor game. Aug. 2 Sun. Fine and mild. At home most of day. Took Shirley and children up Gladstone Road as far as Varnhams to see if possible to get metal out. Met Hamiltons. George and Enid to Church of England. Aug. 5 Wed. Fine. Took dray to Stewart's and brought home load of stones. Leo Cater took delivery of 16 fat wethers. Willie Stewart came over to assist putting down concrete floor for cowshed. He and George carted stones in morning. George in afternoon 5 loads in all. Fixed levels and gradually finished foundations. Aug. 6 Thurs. Hossack brought up 8 bags cement from Bull, mixing board and measure from Levin Dairy Factory. Willie came over again and we went on with job. Hossack carted 3 yards river metal from Varnhams. We put down concrete in afternoon. Aug. 7 Fri. Willie came over and we finished concreting before dinner. Caught the 4.45 train to Wellington and stayed with Edith in No. 3 flat. Walked down town to Percy's and then went round to see Alice. Aug. 8 Sat. Southerly gale and rain in morning. Up late. Agent sent up man to look at flats on behalf of Mr T. Dwan who also brought his wife up in the afternoon. Everything hung up until Will's return from Ruapehu. Edith and I went to Lyall Bay to see College tournament. Heavy wind spoilt play. Wellington College beat Nelson College, and Wanganui beat Christs College. Evening went with Percy to Savage Club. Met Ern Kellow, Ern Liddle. Enjoyable evening. Aug. 9 Sun.

Beautiful day. Church in morning. Dinner at Carrie's. Afternoon at Amy Ward's. Tea and evening at P.N. Denton's. Aug. 10 Mon. Wet morning but fine in afternoon. Went to College ground to see finals at College Tournament. Nelson beat Christs 3-0. Wellington beat Wanganui 17-13 after a very exciting game in the mud. Met Dr. Evans, Guy Powles, Charlie Innes, Jim Prendeville, Jack Mackenzie. Met Katie at station, returning from Levin. Robert and I went to Winter Show. Aug. 11 Tues. Beautiful day. Robert and I went to Seatoun to witness the arrival of the American Fleet. Conditions excellent. Splendid view of the ships and seaplanes (8). Dinner in town. Edith laid up with bad leg. Evening I took Helen Beckett to De Luxe Theatre to see comedy. "I'll Show you the Town" Fair picture. Aug. 12 Wed. Went to see parade of American sailors - march past at Parliament Buildings and march through the streets. Only fair turnout. Very mixed lot of men. Went up to see Carrie and afterwards caught evening train for home. Shirley met me. Aug. 16 Sun. Just as I was going round the sheep a chap named Rose who went to Egypt with me in the 27th NZMR turned up to see me. He walked round hill with me and I invited him to spend Monday evening with us. Will Beckett up to dinner. Also we had Mr and Mrs Evans up in afternoon. Shirley, Enid and I went to Church of England in evening taking W.M.B. with us. Cold night. Benzine ran out lust as we reached Denton Road and George had to come along with a tin before I could get home. Aug. 17 Mon. Evening Rose (father and son) spent evening with us. Aug. 19 Tues. Had word from W.H.Denton of offer of 25,000 pounds for 58 Willis Street. I wired on behalf of Adkin and self consenting to sale. Evening took Enid to town. Shirley and I went to see Maxwell and Cyril Batholomew. Aug. 22 Sat. George and I went by train to Palmerston Nth to see match NSW v. Manawatu/Horowhenua/Wellington. Very good -Football but NSW won 20-8. Aug. 23 Sun. Maxwell and her mother Mrs Brown spent afternoon with us. Aug. 24 Mon. Another rotten day. Shirley and I went to station to meet Alice and Molly who came up to stay with us. Aug. 28 Fri. Evening Alice Shirley and I drove to Levin I went to A & P meeting, they met Percy and Johnny at train and we all came home together. Aug. 29 Sat. Fine day after frost. Percy, Molly. Lois, John and I moved ewes without Iambs. Afternoon I took Percy and children to Levin and we had look round Town Hall buildings. Also Adkins, in company with W.G. and Mr Bennie. Shirley spent day in bed after having had bad night with Enid, Lois and herself sick. Lois still off colour but Shirley much improved in evening. Aug. 30 Sun. Shirley took Percy Alice to Adkins in afternoon. Aug. 31 Mon. Shirley and I took Percy, Alice and Molly to catch 5 pm. train to Wellington Sept. 2 Wed.

Evening Shirley and I went to pictures "Vanity Fair" very good. Sept. 5 Sat. Rough day with hail. Shirley and I went to Wellington to see Ranfurly Shield match. Hawkes Bay v. Wellington. Heavy shower about 10.30 but weather cleared and fine afternoon. Left Shirley in town to go visiting and I went to Athletic Park to see game. About 22,000 people present and it was very exciting game. Hawkes Bay were superior, particularly during the last 15 minutes and won by 20-9. Game worth seeing. Home by night train. Sept. 7 Mon.

Afternoon I went with Willie Stewart to funeral of late Arthur Reeve. Sept. 9 Wed. Evening we all went to the last of the Naumai assemblies and had a very enjoyable evening. Claire Adkin and J.C.G. (Jimmy Gardiner) looked after the house in our absence. Lois scalded her foot rather badly in the evening but settled down quietly before we went out and afterwards spent a fairly good night. Sept. 10 Thurs. Evening Shirley and I went to hear Choral Society in 'The Lay of the Bell' Items in the first half by Barnes, Hunter, Mottershead. Not bad second half rather heavy. Lois very feverish so had to doctor her up when we came home. Sept. 11 Fri. Wet. Feeling rather seedy so did not go out. George did all the sheep work. Lois a lot better but in bed all day. Sept. 12 Sat. Fine. Round the ewes. Sawing etc. Went with Shirley to town in afternoon. Sept. 13 Sun. Fine, did not go from home. Mr and Mrs Varnham here in afternoon. Sept. 16 Wed. Fine. I spent all day at working bee at Racecourse for A. R. P. Assn. We knocked down the whole of the cattle yards and sorted up timber. Evening I took chair at Farmers Union meeting when Mr W.J. McCullock lectured on 'manure, topdressing' About 60 present and a very good lecture. I operated the lantern. Slides successful. Shirley went to pictures 'Thief of Bagdad'. Sept. 18 Fri. Evening Shirley and I went to Mrs Matheson's where we had some jazzing. Sept. 20 Sun. Showery with very cold wind. Mr and Mrs W.H. Beckett up to dinner and tea. Sept. 21 Mon. Miss Hitchcock and Miss Biss up to tea and evening. Sept. 27 Sun. Up late. Shirley and I rode round ewes. Round house in afternoon. Shirley, Enid and George to Church of England in evening. Sept. 29 Tues. Dr Marjory Barclay of Waimate came up and spent night with us. Spent evening talking before the fire. Sept. 30 Wed. George and I went to Showgrounds, taking Shirley, Lois and Anne as far as Mrs Bartholomews. We spent the day cleaning up cattle pens for A & P Association. Oct. 2 Fri. Evening Shirley and I spent at Stewarts. Met Mrs Cameron. Oct. 3 Sat.

Afternoon Shirley, Lois and I went to Levin I presided my first meeting at Farmer's Union - small attendance (1. Oct. 7 Wed.

Went with Willie Stewart to Weraroa Cultural Development Farm to see Dispersal sale of friesans and red polls. Good crowd and good prices. Friesan bulls up to 100 gns. Red poll bulls from 20 gns up to 70 gns. Oct. 11 Sun. Showery in morning. Mr and Mrs Stewart and Mrs Cameron came over to see us in afternoon. We also brought Auntie Katie over from Adkins. Shirley and I took Mr S and Mrs C for a walk to far terrace. Oct. 12 Man. Evening meetings of R.S.A. committee and W.H. Fields committee. Oct. 13 Tues. I went down to sale. Evening took Mr and Mrs Cameron and Mr Raskin down to hear R. Semple - political address. Fair crowd and entertaining. Oct. 14 Wed. Shirley and I took Beryl (Biss) to see pictures 'London' Fair. Oct. 16 Fri. Field's meeting at Weraroa in evening. Oct. 18 Sun. Afternoon we brought Edith over from Cheslyn Rise to see children. Oct. 20 Tues. Shirley and Enid went with Dudley Brown and co. to Palmerston Nth to see 'Kid Boots'. Left me in charge. Oct. 21 Wed. Evening lantern lecture by Mr W.J. McCullock on 'pastures'. About 35 present, excellent lecture. George ploughing. Oct. 22 Thurs. Mr McCullock held field day. When there were about 20 present. We visited Gimbletts, W. Stewarts, Honores and W.G. Adkins in turn and gained some useful information. Evening Shirley and I took Enid and W. Stewart to political meeting by H. Holland. Big crowd and fair speech. Oct. 23 Fri. Afternoon went to Wellington with W. Adkin to meeting of family. Informal meeting re disposal of Willis St property. Oct. 24 Sat. At Fern Hill in morning. Afternoon Edith and I after lunching at 'Rialto' went to 'Allenville' and afterwards to Alec and Nolly in tram to Wadestown. Caught late train home. Shirley met me. Oct. 25 Sun. Afternoon Mrs and Miss Hitchcock, Mr and Mrs Kibblewhite and Ken and Beryl Biss up to see us. Nov. 3 Sun.

Mr and Mrs Evans up in afternoon. Church of England in evening. Nov. 5 Tues. Evening Shirley and I went to Mrs Fletchers concert in which Enid was taking part. She performed well and the entertainment was very successful. Nov. 6 Wed. Election Day. Government gained great victory. 55 seats going to Reform. Shirley and I went down town, first to pictures and afterwards to hear results. Nov. 8 Sun.

Drove to town to see Mr Donnelly in morning. Mr and Mrs Hamilton and Miss Hammond up in afternoon. Nov. 12 Thurs. Savage Club's ladies evening. Shirley did not go as children sick so Enid and I went late.George over to Stewart's assisting milking. Willie Stewart took Mrs Stewart to Wanganui. Lois hurt big toe. Cream can fell on it. Nov. 13 Fri. Showery. George assisted Godfrey Read to mend boundary fence. I commenced rolling paddock - George carried on and we did two thirds of the paddock. Put in night pen. Nov. 14 Sat. Fine but dull. Jim Rolston came and we continued to shear the ewes - hand pieces not running well. children all very off colour with colds. Lois' foot very bad. Nov. 15 Sun. Took Lois down to see Mr Donnelly re sore toe but he was away. Nov. 17 Tues. Shirley and I went to town and I went to see Dr Bryson who gave me tonic for Shirley. Nov. 19 Thurs. Showery, up at 5 am. but could not start on account of the rain. However, I made a start about 9.30 with roller. 'Gyp' up lame after yesterdays harrowing so could not use her. George Blom-Field lent me his chesnut horse which worked well. Rolled bigger part of paddock before dark. Pictures in evening with Shirley. Nov. 22 Sun. Shirley, Lois and I drove to town in morning. Visited Dr. Bryson and Mr Donnelly and afterwards went to Church of E. Willie s. and Peter and Katie over to dinner. Willie and walked round sheep. Nov. 23 Mon. I went in car as far as Prouse's to take drill pieces. Willie S. and Dick came down with me. Removed broken parts. Sawtell mended bracket and 1 sent sprocket wheel to Manson and Barr Palmerston Nth to get a duplicate. Afternoon George and I walked round house. W.G.Vickers came up to see me bringing Mrs W.6. with him. Nothing definite fixed regarding lambs but 25/- seems to be about his price. Nov. 25 Wed. Wet day. George and I worked in stumping paddock in morning and I continued in afternoon while George swotted. Nov. 29 Sun. Shirley had bad day. Very bad back. Nov. 30 Mon. Shirley in bed. Dec. 1 Tues. Evening I went to Flower Show. Took Shirley and Enid. Called at Sawtells. Dec. 2 Wed.

P. N. Denton turned up at dinner time on his way back from Palmerston Nth. Had a very bad throat. Dec. 3 Thurs. In the morning Mr W.J. McCullock and Mr Bates paid me a visit in connection with the dressing experiment. We walked over the ground but as the season has been so unfavourable there was not much improvement showing. However, the clovers are visible and with improvement in the weather, should be greatly increased. Dec. 5 Sat.

Yarded all old ewes and lambs for Mr Vickers to look at He took 90 fat lambs at 24/- or more if they billed out well. He complimented me on the quality of the lambs. Dec. 6 Sun.

Mr and Mrs Overton-Jones (Ray and Dorrie) drove up to s=== us in afternoon. Not long out from England. Dec. 8 Tues. I went to Levin Sale and afterwards to funeral of Mrs Gilmour who died very suddenly. Very big funeral. Up at 4 am. and mustered old ewes to yards and drafted off 90 fat lambs marked by W.G. Vickers on Sat. 'Mort Ryder took delivery. Drafted out 86 ewes whose lambs were away. Dec. 10 Thurs. Shirley and I caught first train to Wellington. Shirley went to Donnelly and son and had her hair cut off. Afterwards we had lunch with Will and Perc at G & C. Afternoon we went shopping and then to see cabin trunk for Enid. Dec. 13 Sun. Enid went to Paraparaumu for the day. Mr and Mrs Jack and family up in afternoon. Dec. 14 Mon. Mrs W.H. Beckett and Guy up to stay. Dec. 17 Thurs. Showery in morning. Arranged to take Shirley, Enid Lois and Anne to Palmerston Nth to see Father Christmas. Weather cleared about 9 am. so decided to go. Started at 11 am. and had a good run into Palmerston Nth. 12.30 after lunch we did the shops and had lots of fun with the children and met Mr and Mrs Raper also G.H. Bennett. Left for home 4.30 home just after 6. Mrs Stewart and Mrs
Fulton kindly minded Buster for us while we were away. Dec. 20 Sun. I went over to Cheslyn Rise to dinner to meet Will who was making a flying visit from Wellington in order to see us concerning some business re Willis Street. He motored up with Mr and Mrs Kuchman. He W.G. and I had a long talk. Dec. 21 Mon. Mrs Barclay of Waimate staying here. Dec. 22 Tues. Prouse shearing his ewes in my shed today. George assisted him. I sharpened up and set machines before 1 went out to work. Finished 'ploughing' headlands and then disced. Dec. 23 Wed. Showery. Prause and George shearing. I put in day at Bechers taking in hay. Good stuff but not fit. Killed two lambs for Xmas. One weighed 38 lbs the other 33 lbs. Supplied Vickers (19) Stewart, Marsh, Ray Jones. Dec. 24 Thurs. Showery, Prause and George finished shearing. I went to town with ladies in afternoon to shop. Mrs Barclay went to Wellington and Edith arrived to spend Christmas. Dec. 25 Fri. Fine but dull. Christmas Day. Shirley, Enid, George went to 8 am. communion. Spent quiet day. Enid and George spent evening at Vickers. Dec. 26 Sat. Dull after shower. George went to Otaki Motor Sports and John to beach with Mr Stewart. Rest of us stayed home. disced far end and harrowed near end. 1 stroke. Dec. 27 Sun. Fine. Edith. Enid, George, Jack and Lois to church in morning. Went for a short run to Kimberley crossing. Church of E. in evening. Dec. 28 Mon. Shirley and Paul went down to Miss Hitchcock's to stay for a few days. Dec. 29 Tues. George worked at Stewarts at ensilage. Enid's foot giving her some trouble. Dec. 31 Thurs. Went to town in Evening and brought Shirley and Paul home.

If you should be CUMMING up from WELLINGTON you will notice that Levin is one of the BEST LITTLE Towns in the Horowhenua District. If you are a NEWMAN here YOU’LLE think that the people are a pretty SMART lot for they have generally got a big RUSSELL on. Just at present the Beautifying Society an FULLER HITCHINGS to make Levin a PATTON city. With this AIM in view they have a Queen Carnival in progress and the excitement grows DALY. Each candidate has an organiser who is SHAW to BECHER for something if he meets you so you should BOULTON seeing him approach. He is so KEEN that he will go a LONG way to HUNT you up and HARRIS you and eventually COLLIER. Whatever you may give he ADSETT to his list which is already LEYDON with gifts and tho you try to LUCAS if you're pleased altho you could HOWELL with rage. No doubt there will be a very CLOSE contest and when the final DAY arrives there should be a RICH harvest for the Society.

One might suggst to the Committee that our part could be greatly improved by a GROVE of PALMERS or a BROADBELT of OAK. A ROSE GARDINER who could also look very BRIGHT and a ROE of PINKS could make an effective BORDER. If there should be a BARRON CORNER it could be utilised to build a SHADY BOWER which one could HUGHES for READING as long as ones EYES were not AITKEN.

HOWE nice it WOOD be to have an AVERY where we could keep a BIRD or two such as the TOUHY the CROWE. Close by there could be a PONA filled with CHRYSTALL water with PYKE and SALMON swimming round.

When all these improvements are BROUGHTON Levin will soon make it's MARK as the thriving place. There are so many KIRKS here that we have to keep many PARSONS and CLARKS and then we have a DEAN who is said to be quite DIVINE.

Others who are numbered among the SAINTS consist of a POPE, a MONK and a BISHOP. Our Mayor is Stillwell in the lead in public affairs BUTT is well out of fashion on account of his old STYLES in MILNE(RY) but is in fact no LEMMON.

Our BUTCHER is a very WHILEY young man. He is so SHARPE that he can TURNBULL into very CUNNINGHAM but he will not keep OLDHAM for fear it should become SMELLIE. He likes STOCKWELL finished and will buy any DUCKWORTH KILLING and he generally supplies the PARSONA with meat each of whom HASLAM and GREEN PIES every Sunday.

It is SEDCOLE will be a great PRICE this WINTER so if you come afFORD it you will have to take your AXUP to the HILL and chop a HEAP of WOOD which BURNS well. If you are in HASTE a SAWTELLS MOORS if you FAWCETT. The LAW does not permit us to HUGHES the LONG paddock for grazing our STOCK and the ranger pages WATSON the RHODES and so is always in COURT SUBAU somebody. A COWELL do a lot of damage in a

KNIGHT and a BULL might HOOK you on his HORN. If, with a loud BLAIR, he RAWSON seeing you he is SHAW to be in a TAUTRUM so you should CLIMB one of the TELEGRAPH POWLES out of his way. If he will not be driven into an OLDFIELD you should get the ranger to SHUTE him and for he will probably be a good POTTER.

Any FARMER keeping a HOGG especially if it should be a WILD boar should not RISKE allowing it to WALLER in the FEILD but should keep it in a WHITEHOUSE with a WOODROOFE. YOU'LL GRANT me that. It is a well known fact that the PENN is

greater than the (S)WARD. The BAYLIS........................................... .............................. Some
men HARKER.

Jan. 1 Mon

Enid and Jack went to beach for picnic with Vickers and Co. George and I helped Percy Port take in his hay.

Jan. 2 Tues Left for Wellington by New Plymouth Mail. Jan. 3 Wed. Business in Wgtn. Left for Waimate by Wahine for Lyttleton. Good trip. Met Dr Davies, Charlie Collins on board. Jan. 4 Thurs.


First express to Waimate.Shirley met me at Junction. Spent holiday at Becketts except for 5 days in Timaru where we stayed with Ted and Annie Beckett. Splendid time.Played bowls. Went to sale at Waiho Forks. Went with Evelyn to draft Iambs for Mr Young. Took Lois to Dr Talbot of Timaru - small operation on her eye - duct was blocked. Jan. 27 Sat. Left for Wgtn. Met at ChCh by Roly Denton, Millie Beckett and some of Shirley's friends. Roly came to boat, Wahine, with us.

Jan. 28 - 2 Feb

Spent at Fern Hill. Took trip in observation motor round suburbs - very enjoyable. February. 7 Wed.


School picnic at Plimmerton. We all went down an enjoyable day. Feb. 8 Thurs.


Wettest day for some time. Our car stuck me up before I reached Port's gate. Sat there waiting for rain to stop. Eventually went in Willie's car to Manakau to Mr Inge's place - selected 2 S.D. rams at 10 gns Put them in the car- and brought them home. Picked up Sawtell's man, could do nothing there, so Willie towed it to Levin to be repaired. Creeks running bank high. Feb. 10 Sat. Fine and hot. Pryor cut hay. I went to town and brought back car. Feb. 12 Mon. Took in hay. Team arrived 9 o'clock. P.Port and boy, W. Stewart, Poad, Aikman, Ray Jones. Finished about 4 pm. Not enough sun but rain on hay. Feb. 14 Wed. Went to town in morning to prepare for swimming sports in afternoon. Big crowd. I acted as starter. Feb. 15 Thurs. Went to Wellington by Field's train. Afternoon Laurie and I went to Well. Coll. to see George and have a look round. Family meeting in evening. All there but Mowb. Feb. 16 Fri. Down town with Frank in Morn. Afternoon Laurie and I went to House of Parliament to hear no confidence debate. Gov't won by 39-36 and continued in power. Family meeting in evening. Preparation for sale of Fern Hill. Feb. 17 Sat. Returned by Napier Mail. Also Laurie. Feb. 19 Mon. Rankin (Stock Inspector) looked at bullock and condemned him. Valued at 15/-/-. I got 2/10/-. Feb. 20 Tues. Took 8 fat bullocks, 1 condemned bullock and 1 jersey bull to yards. Sold jersey bull for one pound. Milne took delivery of condemned bull. Shirley and I went to picture 'Omar Khayyam' - fair. Feb. 23 Fri. Standen and man arrived to erect tank stand, etc. made good progress during day. Feb. 24 Sat. Standen and man fixed copper and finished tank stand. Enid and I went to town with Willie Stewart. Willie and I went to ratepayers meeting to discuss high valuations and rating. Big meeting but not much satisfaction. Wool down in Wgtn sales. Adkin sold hogget wool 15 and a quarter - rest passed in. Feb. 25 Sun. Johnny went to church with Stewarts. Afternoon Mr and Mrs Fur-ton came over to see us. Feb. 26 Mon. Mustered rape lambs to yards and Vickers picked up 40 out of 43 at 25/-. Jensen's man came to fix up tank, etc. Feb. 28 Wed. Enid brought car home. Also Mary and Helen -for tea. March. 3 Sat.


Afternoon meeting A.P. Assn. Adjourned on account of funeral of Mr Thomas late of Chronicle staff. March. 4 Sun.


Enid, Francis Fyke, Jack and I went to C. of E. March. 10 Sat. Put coat of priming on tank stand. Standen up to finish odd lobs, verandah, bench, etc. A.P. meeting decided to hold Mardi Gras in aid of funds. March.14 Wed. Afternoon went to unveiling of Stone of Rememberance by General Sir Edw. Chaytor. Col. Guy Powles also there. Service spoilt by rain. Afterwards went to swimming sports - started races. Competition between Levin and P.N. High schools. Palmerston Nth won by 33-30 points. Evening Shirley and I went to meet Dorothy and Winnie Beckett who arrived by train from south. March. 17 Sat. Dorothy and I rode over to Adkins for 4 straggler lambs. Doris Beckett arrived for weekend. March. 18 Sun. Afternoon we all drove down to Beckett for afternoon tea March. 19 Mon. Shirley, Dorothy and Doris Beckett went to Linton by first train. Back 6.45. March. 21 Wed. Shirley put in most of the day at D.S.McKenzie (tooth repairing). March. 22 Thurs Dorothy and I mustered back hill. Evening Helen, Guy and Percy Port over to tea and evening. March. 23 Fri. All went to beach by car for day. Very enjoyable. Rotten road. Had bathe. Home 6 pm. March. 27 Tues. Visited school and walked with Mr Foss. March. 28 Wed. Afternoon we all went to Levin.I acted as starter at swimming club's sports. Fair turn out. George arrived home for Easter holidays. MacMillan defeated Joe Ward for Tauranga by 1100 votes. March. 29 Thurs. Shirley met Laurie, Nell and family by Napier Mail. Also Dulcie Denton. March. 30 Fri. Adkin family and Edith and Kate came over to see us. March. 31 Sat. Enid, Duicie and George went for ride. Afternoon - rest of us drove down to Horowhenua Lake. Musical evening.

April. 1 Sun.

Whole family except self went to church. Afternoon Shirley, Dulcie and Nell went with Adkins to Shannon to see Dora. Laurie and boys and I drove to State Farm and had a look round. April. 2 Mon. After dinner went with Willie Stewart and family to Ohau River Muhunoa East, afterwards to Papaitonga Lake. Very pretty. Evening at Adkins. April. 3 Tues. Dulcie went to Wgtn by morning train. Laurie- and family returned to Hastings. George returned to College by New Plymouth express. April. 7 Sat.


Shirley had trouble with car.

April. 8 Sun.

Enid, Win, Jack and I went to church in morning. April. 11 Wed. Willie and I went over to Hodge's clearing sale. April. 14 Sat. Took day off to go to Mangahao. We took Mr and Mrs Sawtell, Helen, Shirley and self in our car, Willie S. took Winnie, Enid, Jack, Jean and Peter in his car. Shirley drove to Power House, then Sawtell took charge. Road very steep and narrow with many sharp corners. Surface fairly. good. Arrived at Mangahao about 12 and had lunch then walked down bridle track to bed of Mangahao stream, 400 feet down. Very interesting trap. Sawty drove back, car went well. Willie had close shave at hairpin bend when returning. Muriel Beckett (Bash) came home to spend weekend with us. April. 15 Sun. Spent morning planting native shrubs we brought from Mangahao. April. 16 Mon. Mr and Mrs Lindsay Barron and Maxwell 'Barty' up in afternoon. April. 17 Tues. Put up fence round 'Wellingtonia'. April. 18 Wed. Guy Tully married Miss Frances Thorpe today. April. 19 Thurs. Put glass in kitchen and bathroom windows. April. 21 Sat. Canvassing for A. & P. Assn. funds. Annual meeting Farmers Union. P.N.D. stayed at Cheslyn Rise for weekend. April. 22 Sun. We all went to Tully's Ihakara. Took Percy with us. April. 23 Mon. Evening R.S.A. annual meeting and social. Good crowd and enjoyable evening. I responded to toast of the ladies. April. 25 Wed. Afternoon went to ANZAC service at Stone of Rememberance. Nice service. Good crowd. April. 26 Thurs. Hobson elected Mayor beating Goldsmith 109. April. 27 Fri. Harry George and Mr Brown NZLMA wool classer up to see me. April. 28 Sat. Went to meeting of Farmers re County Council affairs. Good meeting. Messrs. Richards, H.J.Cately and T.Kilsby nominated to oppose present councillors. April. 29 Sun. All went to church except self and Levin. Shirley and I drove down to see Mr and Mrs Vickers in afternoon. April. 30 Mon. Householders meeting in evening. Very orderly. Committee elected J.Proctor 73, Gardiner 71, Vickers and Roe 69, Honson 67, Denton 66, Percy 61, Adams 57, Shennen 37. (Curtis, Lemmon, Elliott, Hall, Wilson rejected.) May. 1 Tues. Evening Willie and I went to Experimental Farm to hear lecture on pastures by Mr Levy. Very interesting and lot of Information. May. 3 Thurs. Picked apples. Mr and Mrs Dick Harris came up for the day. I took Dick for a ride round farm. Shirley to stay at Becketts for a few days. May. 4 Fri.


Willie and I went to Experimental Farm to entertainment given to visiting farmers to school. Good turnout followed by supper. I sang Tin gee gee and Nancy Lee. Car went sour on us on way home, had to leave it in Queen Street. May. 7 Mon.


Shirley was to go to Hastings but Lois unwell so postponed. May. 8 Tues. Took Shirley and Mrs and Miss Stewart down to flower show. Lois improved. May. 9 Wed.


Went to Levin to vote on County election and Power Board. Old Power Board re-elected. For Whirokino riding Cately, Harkness, Broadbelt, Kilsby. Richards standing. Sale of stock by Jack Neylon - good stuff, fair prices. Tea at Billy Wilsons. May. 10 Thurs. All went to station. Sent Johnny away to Wanganui to stay with Frank and Ethel, and Shirley to Hastings to stay with Laurie and Nell. Unfortunately took Hastings ticket for John by mistake. Guard telephoned back from Koputuroa. Paid for Wanganui ticket on station master's advice, will claim refund. May. 11 Fri. ' Boyer' and I mended fence by hayshed. Winnie and I drove to station to meet George. Crowning ceremony of Mardi Gras. Miss Gracie McDonald queen. 720 pounds raised. May. 12 Sat. Evening Enid. George and I drove up to Tully's to surprise party given in honour of Guy and Mrs Guy Tully. Enjoyable evening. May. 13 Sun. Winnie and I drove to see Maxwell. May. 14 Mon. George and Enid drove car to Vickers in evening. May. 18 Fri. George and Enid out to dance. Tingeys. May. 23 Wed. Helen and Miss Watson walked up in afternoon. Left George in charge rest of us went to hear the Westminster Glee singers. Splendid concert. Boy soprano very good. May. 25 Fri. Rex Beckett and Alec Watson biked up in afternoon and stayed evening. May. 26 Sat. Jack returned from holiday in Wanganui. May. 27 Sun. Children went to church and brought Mary Denton and Miss Kirk home with them. Winnie, George and I took them back to Levin and went to church. May. 29 Tues. After going to Levin sale Mr Adams and I visited school. Evening Enid, Win, and I went to male choir concert. May. 30 Wed. Caught Napier express to Palmerston Nth. Met Shirley just come down from Hastings on her way to Wanganui. Edith also travelling to Wgtn. Shirley and I wandered round Palmerston Nth saw her off on train, returned by train. May. 31 Thur. Eric Percy up for the day. Played cards in evening. June. 5 Tues. Went to sale. Tea at W.H.Wilsons. School committee. June. 6 Wed.


Enid took car to Sawtell's as it was running badly. June. 7 Thurs. Shirley came home by Wanganui express. I biked down and picked up car and brought Shirley home. Looking much better for holiday. June. 10 Sun. Billy Wilson and family up in afternoon. June. 17 Wed. Evening went with Dr Gow, Hamilton, Jack Young in MeFarlane's car to Palmerston Nth to reunion of W.M.R. regiment. V.g. muster - 250. June. 14 Thurs. Evening went to Savage Club. Big turn out of visitors from P. N. who gave splendid entertainment. June. 19 Tues. Evening I took Win, Enid, Clare and Mary Beckett to pictures - queen of Sheba' - only fair. June. 22 Fri. Willie Stewart took Shirley, Enid and I to P.N. by car. Ladies went to Show, W & I went to S.R. Lancasters Sale of pedigree Jerseys. Stewarts spent evening here. Jack's birthday. June. 24 Sun. After dinner Enid. Win and I drove to Training Farm to entertain boys. We sang and recited. Shin l and Win and I drove to church in evening. June. 26 Tues. I took Shirley with me to Training Farm where male choir gave entertainment. June. 29 Fri.


Met New Plymouth express and brought Mr Gray of Pukerua to see hoggets. He liked them alright but objected to 'utiwai on some. However, he took 78 at my price i.e. 20/- nett. Shirley and the girls took Mr Gray to train. July. 1 Sun.


Percy Port came to dinner and tea. Helen Beckett and Mrs Aymes of Napier cycled up in afternoon and stayed to tea. July. 2 Mon. Took 78 lambs to station. Dogs caused some bother in morning by disappearing just as I wanted them to drive the lambs. Willie Stewart found them and brought them to me at Leslie Adkins who was helping me round the corner. July. 3 Tues. Tea at Billy Wilson's. Trio practice at Howard Andrews for Mathesons benefit. School committee and male choir. July. 6 Fri. Cut hedge by house (Lawsoniana) taking all timber off north side. Presentation to Mr and Mrs Matheson in evening. Male choir performed. I also sang with Andrew and Hunter. Presentation of address and tea service to Mrs M. July. 8 Sun.


Afternoon Mr and Mrs Lancaster Mr and Mrs E.W.J. Smith and son, Mrs Vickers and two boys came to see us. July. 10 Tues. Tea at Billy Wilson's and male choir. Winnie staying at Stuckey St. July. 11 Wed. Dug garden. Miss Tingey staying here. July. 12 Thurs Evening went down to Boys' Training Farm with party from Savage Club. Sang in choruses and quartet. July. 13 Fri. Went to clearing sale at Graham's, bought aged gelding for 50/-. Mr and Mrs Guy Tully came to tea and evening. July. 15 Sun. Went for a drive in car round Kawiu Rd. July. 17 Tues. Saw Mr Smellie re error in benzine, he promised to adjust it. Tea at Mathesons and male choir. July. 19 Thurs.


Afternoon - sale of land on a/c Tompsill's estate late. Nudge's farm. No bids whatever. Savage Club in evening. Performed in sole effort - piece called 'The Married Woman' Also male quartet. July. 21 Sat. Winnie came home. July. 22 Sun. In afternoon went to Tingeys. July. 27 Fri. Shirley and I went to town to take Enid to train for Wellington where she is making her debut at the Well. Coll. dance. Aug. 1 Wed.


Finlayson came to work at 13/-. Set him cutting rushes. Aug. 2 Thurs. Enid returned Wellington. Evening Ladies night at Savage Club. Big crowd and fairly successful evening. Aug. 3 Fri.


Shirley brought her brother Cecil and wife Ella back to stay. Aug.5 Sun.


Cecil and I rode round sheep in morning. Afternoon we alldrove to Papaitonga and then to Experimental Farm. Aug. 6 Mon.


Shirley took family and visitors to Hokio for the day. Aug. 8 Wed.


Shirley, Enid and Winnie helped me cart away rushes that had been lately cut. Aug. 10 Fri. Afternoon I went with Willie Stewart and Mr Adkin to funeral of Harold Porter. Aug. 16 Thurs. Sledging posts in afternoon. Unfortunately I cut my knee with cross cut saw. Nasty wound. Dressed by Donnelly. Savage Club in evening. Shirley at MacKenzie's. Aug. 16 Sat.

Finlayson and I cut battens from log. Paid Finlayson to date as he is leaving to go to railway job.

Aug. 21 Tues. Winnie and Gracie Vickers went with MacKenzie family to stay at Plimmerton for a few days Aug. 24 Fri. Went to train to meet George coming home from school. Aug. 25 Sat. George and Enid went to Levin in morning. George helped me dock 41 blk faced lambs. We all went to pictures in evening. Good enjoyable picture. Aug. 26 Mon. George and Enid met Napier Mail and brought home Shirley, Win and Lois after their trip to Plimmerton with Mrs MacKenzie. Jack and I yarded ewes and lambs, and later docked 47 lambs. September. 1st - 10th Sun - Mon In bed with flu. George looking after the stock. Very rough day on 10th when Win Beckett went up to Wanganui to meet Noel. Sept. 11 Thurs. Went to town with Shirl and George in afternoon. C. of E. flower show. Enid assisting Helen at stall. Shirl and George went down to pictures in evening and brought Enid home. September. 13 Thurs. Decided to go to Wellington by Napier Mail. Winnie and Noel Beckett arrived here from Wanganui. I spent evening yarning at Fern Hill. Sept. 14 Fri. Down town in morning. Lunch with Pero and Alice. Afternoon Alice, Harry and I went to zoo, afterwards walked to Lyall Bay then Kilbirnie, Hataitai and Oriental Bay. Fern Hill to tea. Competitions with Edith and Kate. Sept. 15 Sat. Went with Norrie, Harry and Will Ross to Athletic Park to see football match N. I. v. N.S.W. Tea at Allenville, afterwards Percy and I went to Fullers to see Stiffy and Mo. Crowded audience but very poor performance. Sept. 16 Sun. Church in morn. Rob and I walked to Allenville and then with Percy, Alice, Harry and Trixie walked - over Mt. Victoria. Very windy. Tea with Rob and Carrie. Evening at Fern Hill. Sept. 17 Mon. Returned home by Napier Mail. George returned to Well. Coll. Sept. 18 Tues. Male choir in evening. Shirley, Win and John went to see Maxwell and Cyril. Sept. 20 Thurs. Cut and sledged totara piles to house for new additions. Sept. 21 Fri. Enid and I mustered young ewes and lambs. Sept. 22 Sat. Mustered ewes and lambs and docked 21 lambs. Jack held lambs for me and managed very well. Shirley and Enid went down to Napier Mail with Noel and Winnie Beckett who are returning to Waimate. Sept. 23 Sun. Drove Enid, Mrs R.R.Harris and Ken Atken to Boys ,raining Farm for entertainment. Shirley stayed at Becketts for afternoon. Sept. 25 Tues. Male choir and took Enid to picture. Dr. Jack. Sept. 26 Wed.


Jack O'Donohue from Boys' Farm up to see me about 2 boys who are at large. Sept. 28 Fri. Took Shirley to town to see Mrs Bryson as she was not feeling very well. Sept. 29 Sat. Jack and I mustered back hill and docked 46 lambs. Oct. 1 Mon.


Standen and 3 men arrived to enlarge kitchen. Put foundations and started on outer wall of kitchen. Oct. 5 Fri. Carpenters making progress with alterations. Oct. 7 Sun. Fixed up chimney in kitchen so it could be used temporarily until Standen put on extra bricks. All went down to see Mr and Mrs Matheson. Oct. 8 Mon. Clare, Maud and Miss Winnie Daniell of Masterton over for the evening. Oct. 10 Wed. Shirley, Enid and I went to wedding of Miss Beryl Tully to Ken Biss. Very successful function. Evening I went by car to Boys' Training Farm where male choir gave concert. Oct. 12 Fri. Carpenters approaching finish of job. Visit from Mr Boyes A.M.P. Oct. 14 Sun. Afternoon Miss Hitchocc and friends Mr and Mrs Kibblewhite drove up to see us. Oct. 16 Tues. Not well. Temperature up so Shirley had Dr. Gow up to see me. He doped me and said I was to stay in bed till Thursday. Oct. 19 - 25 Fri 26. - Thurs Did not go from house. Murray came to work, went round ewes and started ploughing. Oct. 27 Sat. Shirley and I drove to Levin to bring Polly back, arrived by Napier Mail. Nov. 1 Thurs. Shirley and I drove to Levin for wool packs and odds and ends. Nov. 3 Sat. Shirley went to town to pay in money for house alterations. Went to town in evening, took Polly. Nov. 4 Sun. Polly, Enid and Jack went to church. I stayed home with Shin. Auntie Mary came back to dinner. We took her home in evening. Nov. 5 Mon. Enid helped me muster back hill - utiwai ripening but not sticking yet. Nov. 6 Tues. Johnnie Hope arrived 5 a.m. to shear and Dickson arrived at 9.30 Did not start till 10.30 I decided to take Shirley to hospital before beginning. Nov. 8 Thurs. Had trouble with machine. Eric Olivecrona came up and set her going again. Had news of birth of baby girl - 6.30 a.m. Shirley very well under circumstances. Nov. 10 Sat. Shirley and baby getting on well. Nov. 11 Sun. Took Polly to church in evening while I stayed with Shirley. Nov. 15 Thurs. Mr Vickers came and marked 70 fat lambs at 22/6. Very good condition, price disappointing. Polly and I went to top of Port's hill after stragglers. Hospital in evening. Nov. 16 Fri. Had successful day - splendid wool. Paid shearers. Hope 410 - 5/216, Broughton 322 - 4 pounds. Dickson turned up, paid him 12/6. Nov.21 Wed. Went to Aikman's clearing sale. In morning I went to Levin and brought Shirley and new baby home from hospital. Both looking very well. Paid hospital fees. Nov. 24 Sat. Shirley and I drove to town in afternoon but she was having trouble with her breasts so came home and went to bed. Nov. 25 Sun. Shirley not at all well - high temperature. Nurses from the hospital came up in afternoon and treated Shirley's breast. Enid took them back. Nov. 27 Tues. Mr and Mrs Aikman and Percy Port over for tea and evening. Nov. 28 Wed. Shirley sitting up on back verandah. Much better. Dec. 1 Sat. Alec Broughton continued ploughing. We all went to town in afternoon. I went to see Donnelly about festered finger which he opened up. Also gave me a tonic. Dec. 2 Sun. Shirley not so well so went to bed. December. 7 Fri.

Up at 4 a.m., milked, caught first train to Wellington. Travelled with Bert Prouse, Billy Hannan Turton. After dinner want with Prouse to view wool at Murray Robert's wool store. Evening went with Adkins and W.H.D. to wool sale in Town Hall. L.G.Adkin got 15 1/4d, W.G.A. 15d and 17 1/2a lambs, Clifford 15d.

Dec. 8 Sat.

Went to see Murray Roberts catalogue sold - my wool only reached 15a and was sold. (Brokers valuation 15 1/2 - 16). Went up to College in afternoon to see George. Pictures with Edith. Alice and Pero in evening. Dec. 9 Sun. Church in morning. Days Bay with Edith and George to see Kate who is staying over there. Oriental Bay in evening. Dec. 10 Mon. Back home by N.P. Mail. Travelled with Mary Denton. Dec. 13 Thurs. Benefit picture for school picnic. Shirley and I went. Dec. 14 Fri. George returned from school. Won Maths and Science prize. Shirley met train. W.G.Vickers came up to breakfast and to draft lambs. Dec. 18 Tues. We all went to town. School shop day for picnic fund. Only fairly successful - I took 3/7/- at weight guessing competition - total weight of members of committee. Dec. 22 Sat. George and I finished drilling swedes. Afternoon we all went to town. My birthday party in evening. Dec. 23 Sun. Tingeys came out in afternoon and stayed to tea. Drove them home and went to church. Dec. 24 Mon. All went to town in morning. Went to bank and paid account. We all went to town (except Polly) to see sights. Ice cream with Vickers. Dec. 25 Tues. Christmas Day, Shirley, Polly, Enid, George went to 8 a.m. service. Percy and Bert Port over for dinner, tea and evening. Enid, George and Pop went to party at Vickers. Dec. 26 Wed. We Joined with Stewarts and went to Mangore Power House and walked up pipeline to surge chamber. Excellent view. Dec. 27 Thurs. George and I mended fence on terrace. Women went to town - Enid to dentist. Dec. 28 Fri. Very wet. Worked round house. Cleaned bathroom. Dec. 30 Sun. Went to church and took Lois for the first time she behaved well. Brought Mary, Helen and Doris Beckett home to dinner and tea. Went to church to hear Rev. Fielden Taylor. Dec. 31 Mon. Evening Enid and George went to surprise party at St Marys Hall.

Jan. 2 Sat. Fine. Took Edith to early train. Mrs Dr. Bryson came up to look at Enid's foot which she dressed. George and Jack went to sports (electric light). Jan. 3 Sun. Enid went to Hitchcocks to stay. Jan. 6 Wed. Fine - Becher and Trueman came over with mower to cut hay but after a round or two broke both blades. Becher and I went in car to town and bought 1 blade back which they also broke in the afternoon. I spent afterwards at Stewarts harvesting hay. George there all day. Jan. 7 Thurs. Fine. Becher and Trueman again turned up to mow but without success as they had several breakages. Eventually I sent word to Willie Stewart and he came over with his machine and finished the job - taking just over two hours. Jan. 8 Fri. Jim Rolston and George shearing lambs. Things went well but could not finish - had to turn out 45 unshorn. A. & P. meeting in evening. Jan. 9 Sat. Took Willie Stewart and George to racecourse to working bee for A. & P. Assn. Took up water pipe and dry drench. Enid returned from staying at Hitchcocks - her legs much improved. Jan. 12 Tues. Fixed up claim for Accident Insurance and saw Mrs Dr Bryson re certificate. Jan. 13 Wed. At 12 o'clock (midday) I roused the gang and we commenced to take in hay. Messrs. Stewart, Fulton, Trueman, Healy, Murray, Becher, Peter, Jack, George and I on the job. Jan. 14 Thurs. Shirley and I went to Paraparaumu with a load of gear for beach cottage. Had lunch at 'Waimarie' and returned about 3 o'clock. Charlie and Eric collins of Whangarei spent night with us. Jan. 15 - 29. Spent this fortnight at Paraparaumu renting house from Mr L.C. Adams of 24 Fitzherbert St. Petone. Very comfortable and handy to beach and store. 3/10/- per week. Spent most of our time on the beach but took trips to Paekakariki, Waikanae and Levin on 23rd Stewart family came down on 20th and stayed at Dalrymple's house. Willie and I did a good deal of trawling and had fair amount of SUCCESS, particularly once when we intercepted a shoal of kawhai and landed about 250 in one haul. Some excitement was caused by the appearance of a shark which was swimming close in. Watkins attacked it with an adze and it eventually disappeared, a rumour going around that it was stranded on the beach above Waikanae River. Willie and I went to Waikanae Sale while the families picnicked at the river. Met Dr and Mrs Phillips of Feilding and had visits from Greba Wallace, Ken and Beryl Biss. Feb.3 Wed. Adkin received word from W.H.Denton that 58 Willis St. had been sold for 24,250 pounds. Is commission 600 pounds odd. Shirl, Enid, George and I went to Peoples Pictures - Charlie Chaplin. Feb. 6 Sat.


Fine. Shirley and I went by car to Palmerston Nth. Had good run, took one and a half hours. I went to monthly meeting Provincial Farmers' Union. Good attendance but not much business. Details of business of Dominion F.U. by Mr Lynch. Did a little shopping. Good run home. Omitted to leave cream at stand this morning- took it with us to Palmerston Nth. Afternoon I left it at the factory. Went to Levin and home 5.30 pm. Feb. 7 Sun. Shirley, Lois, Anne and I went to church in the morning. Feb. 10 Wed. Dull with showers. Shirley, Enid, Lois, Anne and I went to Plimmerton to school picnic. Left 'Buster' (Paul) with Mrs Fulton. Had a very enjoyable day - picnicked at Mrs MacKenzies house. MacKenzies, Hobsons, Pykes, Parks, Gows, Dentons. Had swim and walk around hill road. Inspected horse owned by Mr MoArty and for sale but too light for my work. Feb. 14 Sun. Fine. Enid stayed weekend at Wallace's. We took firs & Miss Hitchcockfor drive and home to tea and picked up Enid in evening. Feb. 17 Wed. Up at 4 am. and brought sheep at Cottle's yards. Afternoon I 1.49.nt to school swimming sports at which I acted as starter. Very good sports well up to time. Evening went to Charlie Chaplin in 'The Gold Rush'. Feb. 18 Thurs. Fine. George and I spent some time putting fresh oil in gear box of car and oiling up generally. Evening Willie Stewart and I went to meeting dealing with proposed position of Agricultural School at Rangitikei. Mayor in chair. Feild, Linklater and about 20 others present. Feb. 19 Fri. Killed lamb to take to Wellington. Went to Wellington by Napier Express. travelling with L.A.Denton. Stayed at Fern Hill. F.J.Denton also being there. Evening we all met at R.G.Denten's for entire family meeting. I was voted to the chair and all members present except for J.M.D. and K.E.D. Good meeting reporting sale of Willis 58 Street. Everything went satisfactorily - broke up at 11 pm. Feb. 20 Sat. Meeting continued 5.30 am. and lasted till 1.70. Eventually offered sections 1, 2, 3, 4 of 324. The Terrace including house to W.H.D. for 6000 pounds, 2500 cash and the remainder 3500 bearing interest of 6% as from 1 January 1927 option being open till May 1st. We all, except R.J.D. who is just recovering from operation, went to Gamble and Creeds -for lunch and afterwards L.A.D. and I went to Basin Reserve to see Wellington v. Auckland cricket match for Plunket Shield. Wellington 447 Auckland 191. Evening P.N.D. L.A.D. and I went to Kings Theatre to see The Iron Horse' very fair. Percy and Laurie walked tack with me. Feb. 21 Sun. Afternoon W.H.D. L.A.D. and I walked up to hilltop and fount gorse encroaching over cleared land and house in tad condition. Will to interview Weisby. Tea and evening at R.G.D's. All family present. Presented Edith with small pair of field glasses. Stayed at Carries all night. Feb. 22 Mon. Called at Murray Roberts re wool and caught Napier Mail for home. Travelled with E.M.Denton who is now on her way to England - staying at Levin to see Clare married tomorrow. Shirley and 2 children met us. Feb. 24 Wed. Fine but dull. Afternoon Shirley, Enid, Lois, Anne and I went to Cheslvn Rise to attend marriage of Clare Adkin to J.C. CJimmy) Gardner. Function went off very well. E.C. Sawtell bestman. Rev. McArthur officiated. Edith M. Denton master of ceremonies. Feb. 27 Sat. Shirley and I went to town in morning on business. Home late. Feeling 'seedy'. Went to bed early. Feb. 28 Sun. Showers in morning. In be all day. Shirley drove to Otaki Beadh taking some members of the pantomime company. Church and sacred concert in evening. Benefit for Band and Plunket Society. Took 36 pounds. March.4 Thurs. Fine, had early lunch after Shirley had packed the trunks for our trip. Met Helen and Gerald (Bedkett) in Levin. Left about 2.30 and had enjoyable run to Feilding arriving at about 4.30 and put up at the Denbigh Hotel. Saw Alb Kellow and afterwards Shirley and I drove down and spent the evening there. Met Mr Pierard who used to work for Dad in the early days at Willis St. March. 5 Fri.


Fine. Shirley took Vi Kellow for a drive and had picnic dinner. I went to Feilding stock sale. Big entry and lot of buyers. Met Wattie Booth and had lunch with him and his wife. Left Feilding about 2.30 pm. -for Wanganui taking Rev. Adams with us. Had a good run and arrived about 4.30. Stayed with Frank and Ethel. Had our first puncture at Feilding - picked up tack. March. 6 Sat. Fine Shirley took Ethel and Miss Cruickshank and Miss Phillips for a run in the morning. I knocked round town and met several friends. Archie Whiteford, Frank Bristol, Bill Cummings, Jack O'Reilly, Billy Burr. Afternoon we went with Frank and Ethel to Kai lwi Beach taking Chas. Ralph and wife and daughter. Good run home late. March. 7 Sun.


Fine. I went with Frank and Harold to church. Met Wood late of 27th NIZMR. Afternoon Shirley and I took Mr & Mrs H.N.Cork to see Mr & Mrs Lyndsay Barron. Enjoyable afternoon home to tea. Failed to find Doc Hedditch at home so went to see Mrs & Miss Elsie Beaven. March. 8 Mon. Fine. About town in morning. Afternoon about 2.30 left for Hawera. Good run on good roads. Saw McGorry at Waverley and Sid Tidswell at Mokoia. Reached Hawera 5 pm. and put up at Egmont Hotel. Very comfortable. Sent cards home and while in P.O. met Enid's friend Miss Wood. Went to pictures Charlie Chaplin in 'Girl Shy'. Very good. Had tad turn during the night and had very little sleep. March. 9 Tues. Fine. Wandered around Hawera. Went to the top of the watertower from which we had an excellent view. We then motored about a mile back down the main road and locked up Geo. Towser. Had a look at his photos which are good. Left Hawera about midday and struck Eltham for lunch. Then to Mountain House via Kaponga. Arrived Dawson Falls 2.30 and had wander round. Everything very clear and Egmont looked well. Cards in evening with Miss BesIey and Mrs Williamson. March. 10 Wed. Very rough and windy day. Walked down to Dawson Falls and round some of the tracks. Not a good day for sightseeing but enjoyed it. Stayed inside the rest of the day. Large fire - played cards. Wrote to Edith - Mr Morland. March. 11 Thurs. Beautiful morning - splendid view of surrounding country. Shirley, Miss Besley, Williamson and I walked up mountain track a fair distance and then went on alone - up among tussocks. Had a lovely view - a really enjoyable morning. Packed and left the accommodation house after lunch. Fairly steep grade going town. Had puncture at foot of hill. Picked up large tack. Passed through Stratford, Inglewoot and reached New Plymouth at 4.30. Put up at Faber's Terminus Hotel on seafront. Very comfortable. Pictures in evening 'My sister from Paris'. Fret Faber away so did not see him. March. 12 Fri. Beautiful morning. Shirley and I walked along waterfront as far as breakwater - a very nice walk. Took several photos of Sugar Loaves, etc. Shirley's friend Mrs Nicholson called to see her at the Hotel and afterwards took us for a drive around town in her Austin car. Visited New Plymouth gardens and afterwards went to Freethey's Gardens where we had afternoon tea. Heavy rain came on and we had to go back to the hotel. Pictures in evening. March. 13 Sat. Fine. Left New Plymouth about 9.30 am. and travelled round south side of the mountain through Opunake. Fred Faber had been taken ill in the night at Opunake and his wife motored from New Plymouth to take him home. I saw Fred for a few minutes just as he left his hotel. We went on to Hawera for lunch and had excellent run. After lunch we went to see Eddie Dixon for a few moments and locked round gardens. Called at Geo. Towser's (Tozer) but he was away but saw Sid Tidswell for a few minutes. Went on to Wanganui. Turned off main road to see Stone for a few minutes. He has a farm on the road to Kai iwi Beach and milks. Saw his wife and 3 children. Reached Frank's at dark and spent quiet evening. March. 14 Sun. Fine. Shirley and I went to Church of England in morning. Took car home and drove down to see Doc Hedditch in afternoon but he was out. Went down again after tea and spent a couple of hours with him and his wife who seemed a fine woman. March. 15 Mon. At Shirley's request Frank made several attempts at my photo. After lunch Shirley and left Wanganui for Feilding calling at Miss Stewarts for some parcels. Had a good run down, travelled from Turakina to Marton and out to Feilding. Spent quiet evening with Alb and Vi Kellow with whom we stayed. March. 16 Tues. Fine - Alb having holiday - round house in morning - afternoon we all drove to Palmerston Nth where the ladies went shopping. Quiet evening at cards. March. 17 Wed. Fine. We all went for a drive through Colyton, Ashhurst, Pohangina and out to Coal Creek where we had lunch. Found the country very much altered and the old spots hard to recognise. Motored on up road which went up Richards Hill and travelled along top of ridge. Very narrow road and very huisty. Shirley drove all the way till we reached the Pahangina River. Had afternoon tea and then drove back to Feilding down Pohangina Valley. Had an excellent day and travelled about 9'0 miles. Cards in evening. March. 18 Thurs. Fine. We all took a trip to Tiritea where Palmerston Nth gets its water supply. A most enjoyable trtp up narrow valley to see reservoir. Baok atout Li pm. and changed and went to see Wattie Booth at his farm. Wattle and I prowled round in the dark while Shirley and Mrs B. discussed babies. Left just after 10 pm. March. 19 Fri. Fine. Round about Feilding in morning. Afternoon we left for Levin after calling on Mrs Hassell about 3.15 pm. Called at Miss Hitchcock's to pick up Lois and reached home about 6 pm. Found everything alright. March. 20 Sat. Went to Levin in morning to bank. Called at Prouse's to see sick lambs which were being inspected by three vets. Mr Barry, Mr Mead and Mr Rankin. Lambs found to be badly infested with pin worms. March. 21 Sun. Wet morning. Round about house all day. Enid spending weekend with Mrs Vickers. Shirley and I cleaned up. March. 23 Tues. Went to Levin Sale but didn't see much of it as I was canvassing -for A. & P. Assn carnival. March. 24 Wed. J.H.Richards and I toured Gladstone Road and Queen St. for funds for Assn. and did very well. March. 26 Sun. Fine. At home in morning. Afternoon I took Shirley and Enid and children to see Clare and Jim (Mrs J.C.Gardner) in their new house. Very nicely situated. All went to church in evening. Called in at Vickers on way home. March. 30 Tues. Fine and very hot. Enid left for Auckland by the first train, picking up the Auckland Express at Palmerston Nth and travelling as far as Taihape. She sent a few hours with the Norman Vickers and caught the next express for Auckland. I took Shirley and the children down to the station to see her of +. Miss Hitchcock also came down. Paid Sawtell 50 pounds on Chevrolet. April. 1 Thurs. Afternoon Shirley and I drove to Levin shopping. Left children at Hitchcock's. Doris Beckett came for Easter. April. 2 Fri.


Good Friday. At home in morning. Shirley took Doris to see Maxwell (Bartholomew) and Auntie May in afternoon. April. 3 Sat.


Fine but cold. Washed in morning. Shirley took Doris to see Beryl in afternoon. April. 4 Sun. Easter Sunday. Fine. Shirley, Doris and George went to 8 am. Communion. Afternoon I took ladies and children to the beach. April. 5 Mon. Easter Monday. Put in whole day at carnival. Collecting for A. & P. Assn. Fairly successful day. April. 6 Tues. Fine. Went to station in dray and borught back new bedstead, 3 Austrian chairs and set of Junior queen disc harrows. April. 9 Fri. Took W.G.Adkin to Levin to be on deputation to meet Hon. McLeod and Hon. Hawken who are inspecting possible sites for Agricultural College. Deputation met Ministers at Borough offices and afterwards we all went on to the C.D. +arm to view the proposed site which seems an excellent position. April. 11 Sun. Drizzly rain showers, up late. Afterwards took Shirley and children to Kopoturoa to see Mr & Mrs Kernoban. Left Miss Rose at her mother's place. I took a walk round with Mr K. and liked his farm. Picked up Miss Rose on way back and met A.J.Cox (Cocky) of Wellington Mounted Rifles 2nd Sod.who is stationed at Kopoturoa in Railway and is a friend of Rose's. He is coming along to see me later. April. 14 Wed. George put in most of day discing. F.R.Wright and I toured district on Farmer's Union business - hunting up subs. Evening Shirley and I went to see Grace McDonald crowned Queen of Carnival. Mixed items first half. Good crowd and turn out. April. 18 Sun. Fine. Mowed lawns in morning. A+ternoon had a visit from Dr. & Mrs Hunter! Mrs. Miss and Mamie Hitchcock. Walked round paddocks. Hitchcock's stayed to tea. April. 20 Tues. Spent most of afternoon with F.R.Wright collecting subs. for Farmer's Union. Rotten fob. Paid accounts. April. 24 Sat. Went to Annual Meeting of Farmer's Union. About 18 present. I was again elected President -For next 12 months and F.R.Wright - Secretary. Mr McAlpine organiser was also present and gave us an interesting 3/4 hour talk. Is to lecture on Agricultural Banks Friday 30th April. April. 25 Sun. Anzac Day. Shirley, Miss Rose children and I went to service in Town Hall. Big audience and good service. No parade Church of England in evening. April. 27 Tues. Paid Sawtell balance owing on car. Lois and Anne went to party at Varnhams. April. 28 Wed. Helen Backett, her mother came home with Shirley for tea. We drove them down about 8.15 pm. and afterwards went to Parishioners meeting. April. 30 Fri. Evening I presided at meeting organised by Farmer's Union when Mr McAlpine gave very interesting address on Agricultural banking and Farmers Union matters. About 50 present, however, an appeal for members to join up under the order system failed to attract more than about 10 members. Willie Stewart had previously spent day with Mr McAlpine canvassing district with some success. May. 1 Sat. Sawtell sent Bob Bradley up to take me to station as my car undergoing overhaul. Went to Palmerston Nth to attend Annual Meeting Manawatu Provincial Executive. Attendance of 13. Mr McAlpine present. Executive officers re-elected for most part. Home 5 o'clock. Shirley and Anne met me. May. 2 Sun.


Dull with showers. Drove up to Turtons in afternoon. May. 3 Mon.


School committee election. Old committee re-elected – if only B nominations - no ballot. May. 4 Tues. About 3 pm. drove Shirley and children to town for shopping. Evening Shirley and I drove down to Sawtells to hear 'wireless'. May. 12 Wed. Very wet and rough. George went to Wellington with Jack Varnham and a local car agent. Could not work in afternoon so went to Levin to vote on County elections and Power Board. Took Mrs Stewart with me. May. 13 Thurs. Shirley and I went to Ohau to dance given by Ohau Farmers Union. Good crowd, enjoyable evening. May. 15 Sat. George worked in orchard cutting trees in afternoon. Shirley and I went to town. I went to football County 18 Foxton 11 poor game. Coal miners and railway strike settled today. May. 16 Sun. Fine. Afternoon had visit from Will Beckett who brought up Mr & Mrs Horace Jones to see us. May. 17 Mon. Fine. Went up to Wanganui with Mr & Mrs Harold McLeavev to attend Annual Provincial Conference at Farmers Union. Beautiful day and good view in brand new Essex coach - went via Palmerston Nth, Feilding, Marton. Called to see A.J. Kel/ow at Feilding. Arrived Wanganui at 4.30 pm. and went to stay with Ethel and Frank, Charlie Houghton, Mr Grice, Feilding also to tea. May. 18 Tues. Fine but cold. Meeting in Druids Hall. C.C. Jackson President Waiarapa in chair. About 50 present. Hon. 0. Hawken attended in afternoon and evening when 'smoke-oh'. Had photo taken. May. 19 Wed. At conference all day and finished about 4.30. Next year's function to be held in the Manawatu probably Levin. Quiet evening at house. May. 20 Thurs. Frank took my photo again in morning. He then took me to call on the lake - Fletcher's mother also met his brother. Left Wanganui with Mr & Mrs Harold McLeavey in their car about 11.30 am. Dinner at Bulls and then to Levin via Feilding and Palmerston Nth arriving there about 4 pm. in heavy wind. Went into Levin with Shirley. May. 21 Fri. Very rough day. Went to meeting called by Mr W.J. McCullock to make arrangements for travelling farm school. 'H.D.' in chair Tully, Gower (Foxton) H. Lancaster, Richards, H.McLeavey. School to be held July 12th. May. 23 Sun. Shirley and I took children and Gwen to Church. Heavy rain in afternoon and evening. Mr & Mrs Stewart over to stay till 9 pm. May. 26 Wed. Afternoon I went to clearing sale at Mr G. Tully's, Ihakara. Big crowd of people but prices only fair. Bought a few odds and ends - wire strainer, swingle trees. Mr & Mrs Kibblewhite spent evening with us - bridge. May. 28 Fri. Gwen Kellow returned home by Napier Mail. John returned from Wanganui. Meeting of R.S.A. in evening. Jack and George went to dance at MacKenzies. May. 29 Sat. Went to town with Shirley. County 6 beat Shannon 3. May. 30 Sun. Drove down to see Maxwell in afternoon. June.3 Thurs. King's Birthday. Afternoon we all went to Levin. Shirley, Anne and Buster stayed at Becketts while George. Lois and I went to football Levin D.H.S. v. Selwyn 6th grade who were very much heavier than the Levin boys and who won by 22-3. Jack played for L.D.H.S. June. 6 Sun. Shirley, George, Jack, children and I went to Church of England. Afternoon I took family for drive to lake and round Kawiu Rd. June. 7 Mon. George feeling rather seedy so Shirley took his temperature and found him 102 so we put him to bed. Had a very bad cough so called in Dr. Hunter who prescribed for him. June. 8 Tues. Miss Rose and Lois also off colour so Shirley sent them to bed. When Dr. arrived 10 am. he also sent Shirley to bed. Mr Stewart came over and took Anne away to stay with them. John did all the odd jobs instead of George and went to school at 11 am. Willie bought Mrs Fulton over who kindly offered to keep house for us. I also had a dose of lumbago but I managed to crawl around. Had a bad night. June. 9 Wed.


Mr Stewart came over and milked and chopped wood, etc. Dr. came and looked at patients who were better all round. However, Jack off-colour so kept him in bed. Temperature 102F. Round about house all day. Wellington Mounted
Rifles Reunion. Could not go. June. 10 Thurs. Fine. Feeling better myself so cut wood and milked cow. Put lambs on turnips. Family better. George and Miss Rose got up but stayed in dining room. Willie Stewart over at dark and took Mrs Fulton home. June. 11 Fri. Showery. Miss Rose took charge again. George and Jack assisting George milked - miserable day so could not do much and feeling seedy so went to bed at dinner time after having a bath. Invalids rather limp. June. 12 Sat. Fine but cold. Lois not so well. Heavy cold and nasty cough so kept her in bed. Temp. 103 and 102 later. Shirley up but nasty cough. June. 13 Sun. Fine. Anne not well. In house all day. Dr. took flying visit in afternoon. Shirley bad cold. June. 15 Tues. Annual Meeting of R.S.A. Re-elected on Executive Committee. June. 17 Thurs. Fine. George and Miss Rose went to Palmerston Nth to Winter Show. I stayed round house with Shirley and children. Savage Club meeting in evening. June. 19 Sat. Afternoon we went to town. Football Horowhenua 30 Manawatu 9. June. 20 Sun. Beautiful. Took all family except George to Hoiko to get some sea air. Everyone felt benefitted. Shirley still has bad cough. June. 21 Mon. Went to see Dr. Hunter re Shirley in evening before going to Choral Society. June. 26 Sat. Decided to have Dr. Hunter up to see Shirley. He gave her medicine and kept her in bed. George went to football. Beaten by Foxton 6-3. June. 27 Sun. Wet. Brought Mr & Mrs Hitchcock up to see Shirley and took them home at dark. June. 30 Wed. Fine. Had to go to Levin to dentist. MacKenzie stopped 2 teeth and afterwards to station to meet Nurse Hanna. Took Enid and Anne. Stuart Mac asked me to go to Palmerston Nth with them to see hockey match Indian Army v. Manawatu and I accepted. Very good match 4 goals each. Tea at Mrs Mac's and went to Annual General meeting A & P Assn. Re-elected on general committee. July. 1 Thurs. Saw large fire towards Levin and proved to be Raskin's house which was burnt to ground. July. 3 Sat.


Afternoon presided at Farmers Union meeting. Gave some details of remits considered at Wanganui conference. July. 5 Mon. I spent the day with Mr McAlpine, Dominion organiser of Farmers Union. We travelled along Heatherlea Rd and down to Koputaroa. Enrolled 21 members who all sighed orders. Rehearsal of 'Bohemian Girl' July. 6 Tues. Evening Choral Society gave 'Bohemian Girl' before large audience in Town Hall. Very successful. Chorus performed well for the most part. July. 10 Sat. Watty Booth and wife and child arrived Just before dinner and stayed 4 o'clock. Watty and I took walk round. Evening Shirley Miss H and I went to visit Maxwell. July. 12 Mon. Took George and Jack to Levin to attend Travelling Farm School. George darkened windows in Druid Hall (hire one pound) School opened 9.45 am. by Mayor T. Hobson and J. Linklater M.P. I acted as Chairman and took charge of timetable as follows: 10 - 11 Dairy cow demonstration - Mr B. Roberts. 11 - 12 sheep Mr Wm Perry, 12 - 1 wool Mr Cook, 2 - 3.15 manures W.J. McCullock, 3.15 - 5 veterinary lecture Mr Meade, 6.45 - 8.15 pastures E.B.Levy, 8.15 - 10 pigs K. Gorringe. Attendance at different lectures varied from 100 to 40, manures and pastures being perhaps most popular. Very tired. July. 13 Tues. I took Shirley to town, fixed up rent for Druids Hall with W.B. McIntosh - one pound. General opinion Farm School very successful. July. 17 Sat. I took Lois and Anne to Mrs Hitchcock to stay and Jack went over to stay at Mrs Stewarts. George went to football and was kicked badly on the leg and was brought home by Mr F.R. Wright and went to bed. July. 18 Sun. Fine. Up at 5 am. and lit fire. Shirley uneasy. Took a walk around in morning. Nurse Hanna :telephoned Dr Hunter about 1 pm. and he came up immediately. However, he waited until 4 pm. before he attended to Shirley who gave birth to a fine boy weighing 8 lbs. Shirley had a very severe time but bore up well. Nurse sat up till 3 am. when I relieved her. July. 19 Mon. Went to town in afternoon to do some shopping. George Broomfield very ill with pneumonia. July. 23 Fri. Took George to meet Napier Mail for Wellington where he is going to stay -for a short holiday staying with Perc and Alice. July. 24 Sat. On enquiry at Cheslyn Rise I heard that George Broomfield had died on Friday night. W.G. Adkin asked me to undertake some arrangements for for funeral etc. so I went to Levin in morning. July. 26 Sun. Steady rain all day. Took Jack and Jean and Peter Stewart to Church of England. Confirmation Service conducted by Bishop of Wellington. Jack was one of about 40 candidates. Good service. Afternoon in heavy rain I went with Willie Stewart and Fulton to funeral of George Broomfield. Good number there (including members of the R.S.A.) Awful weather. Streams running bank high. July. 28 Tues. Went to Levin and paid a lot of accounts. Took Miss Rose and 'Buster' (Paul), Shirley getting on nicely. Heavy floods in Manawatu. July. 29 Thurs. Afternoon I brought Mrs & Miss Hitchcock, Lois and Anne up to see Shirley and afterwards took them back. July. 30 Fri. Miss S. Varnham came to see Shirley bringing young Knight with her. July. 31 Sat. Football County 16 Hui Mai 11. George returning from Wellington. Aug. 7 Sat. Went to town in afternoon and also saw children at Mrs Hitchcocks. Jack went to Palmerston Nth to play football - drawn game - also to see match Manawatu/Horowhenua v. Hawkes Bay. A draw 14 points each. Aug. 13 Fri. Took Shirley and nurse out for a drive to Levin, Lois unwell. Mrs Hitchcock thinks it might be mumps. Aug. 14 Sat. Went by first train to Palmerston Nth to Farmers Union meeting. Small attendance. Remit from Levin from local butchers selling frozen meat in winter instead of fresh killed was discussed and postponed until next meeting. Returned by car with Harold McLeavey and wife and Mrs Marriott. Stopped at Shannon to see football County 3 Shannon 0. At Napier Hawkes Bay defeated Wellington +or Ranfurly Shield. Lois a lot better today. Aug. 15 Sun.

Fine, up early. Shirley, John and I went to 8 am. communion. John's first appearance and also mine as far as C of E is concerned. About 10.45 am. Shirley, Dick, Nurse and I set off for Feilding, Watty Booth's place where Shirley is staying for a holiday. Had a good run, did not stop or change gear until we arrived there at 1 pm. After dinner Watty and I walked around a bit, then Nurse and I started for home about 3.30 pm. Staying at Feilding while Nurse called on Kellows. Left at 4.30 pm. and arrived home 6.40 pm. No casualties.

Aug. 16 Mon. I took Nurse to first train to Wellington. Aug. 20 Fri. Evening I had tea with children at Mrs Hitchcocks and afterwards went to practice of male voices at Mr C.E. Shaws. Good practice. Aug. 28 Sat. George, John and I went to cemetery and cleaned up plot there. Stone very much discoloured. Afterwards we went to see our cup match. Wanderers beat County 6-3 after well matched game in the mud. Aug. 29 Sun. Up early and round ewes. George and I left for Feilding by car about 9 am. Travelled via Foxton, Rongatea and arrived Booths Feilding at 10.55 just under 2 1/2 hours. Cold and raining so after dinner left for home 3.40 pm. arriving Levin Post Office in two hours. Called at Hitchcocks before coming home. Shirley much improved health - drove practically all the way home. George drove all the way there. Aug. 30 Mon. Afternoon Shirley and I drove to Hitchcocks and brought children home. They have been staying there for about 6 weeks. Sept. 1 Wed.


Evening, Shirley, George and I spent at Mrs S. Varnham's. Sept. 4 Sat. I went to town with Shirley in afternoon. Saw Carmichael re sale of hardware from Denton Estate. Sept. 5 Sun. At 3.30 pm. we took baby down to be christened. We named him Richard Beckett Denton. Miss Mamie Hitchcock is his god-mother and was present, also Mrs Hitchcock. Sept. 7 Tues. Miss Rose not well so she called on Dr Thompson who ordered her to bed and afterwards a complete change. I left her in town and paid her to date. Sept. 10 Fri. Afternoon I drove to Levin to pick up Miss Greig who came up to see Shirley in answer to an advertisement for domestic help. Coming next Monday. Afternoon took Lois to dentist MacKenzie. Lois stood it well. Sept. 12 Sun. M rs & Miss (2) Hitchcock were up in afternoon and evening I took them home about 9 pm. Sept. 13 Mon. George went to Levin to bring home Miss Jessie Greig who commenced to act as domestic help to Shirley. Quiet and unassuming. (25/-). Sept. 15 Wed. Official visit by Governor-General Sir Charles and Lady Fergusson. I was introduced to them as representative of Farmers Union and attend civic reception at De Luxe Theatre. Fair attendance of the public considering weather. After I attended 'Father and Sons' Banquet in Concert Chamber. Packed house. Splendid speeches by their Excellencies and highly successful gathering. Sept. 17 Fri. Very cold morning after slight fall of snow last night. Snow fell in most parts of N. Z. and a frost -Followed causing a lot of damage. Sept. 21 Tues. Went to funeral of Mrs Verity who died suddenly on Saturday night. Very sad case - 6 little girls left motherless. Went to sale of tools by L. Carmichael and Co. on account Denton Estate. Practically everything sold without reserve. I bought a few useful tools - cheap enough 13/- the lot. Sept. 22 Wed. George had to go over to Adkins to help milk Cliffe's cows as he is laid up with mumps. Oct. 2 Sat. Went to monthly meeting of Farmers Union in Palmerston Nth Harold and Mrs McLeavy.kindly offered me a ride in their car and I gratefully accepted it. Small meeting. Left by car 1 pm. Had puncture other side of Foxton arrived Levin 3.10 pm. Went to football matches Horowhenua v. Hawkes Bay. Our men won 8-3 after a poor game. Jessie Greig entered Beauty Contest. Oct. 3 Sun. Took family for motor drive after dinner - picked up Mrs Hitchcock and Mamie on the way. Down as far as Kuku and back. Oct. 6 Wed. Evening Mr & Mrs Harold McLeavey, Mrs Marriott, the Misses Ensor and Jack Varnham came to see us. Oct. 7 Thurs. Jessie Greig had her photo taken for 'Dominion' Beauty Contest. Oct. 8 Fri. I took Shirley to town to D.S. MacKenzie to have tooth drawn. She had 'Novacain' instead of gas and stood operation well. Oct. 14 Thurs. Ladies night at Savage Club. I took Shirley and we had enjoyable evening. I sang in Quartette also in 'Tickling Trio'. Oct. 16 Sat. Afternoon I presided at meeting of Farmers Union re formation of Womens Branch. Decided to endeavour to get Womens meeting. Oct. 19 Tues. Shirley took baby to Dr Hunter re irregularity since circumcision.. Oct. 21 Thurs. George went to Wellington by Feild's train to see Consul for Argentina and to get some information from him about his country. Oct. 24 Sun. Took family to beach. Children enjoyed outing. Oct. 26 Tues. Evening farewell to Messrs Scott and Sullivan in Century Hall. Fair crowd. Male Quartette sang. Nov.6 Sat. Went to Palmerston Nth to meeting of Farmers Union. Went up with Harold McLeavey and Mrs McLeavey, Mrs Marriott. Fair meeting. Usual argument re dairy control discussion on slaughterman's strike. Nov.7 Sun. Mrs Vickers and Mrs Stansell up in afternoon. Nov. 11 Thurs. Reunion of R.S.A. in Levin but had to send an apology as Shirley very bad with lumbago. Nov. 14 Sun. Dr & Mrs Hunter called to see Shirley and stayed to morning tea. Nov. 17 Wed. Bought a large table for kitchen at Carmichaels for 35/-. Nov. 21 Sun. Mr & Mrs Hinde bought Maxwell & Mrs Brown up to see us in afternoon. Nov. 27 Sat. Afternoon Shirley and I drove to town to meet people from Wellington Choral Society who are coming up to help us with the 'Messiah'. About 40 arrived and we drove them to Levin where there was a public reception at the town hall Concert Chamber. Met Miss Chisholm and Miss Tonks both of old Wellington families. Nov. 28 Sun. After dinner I went to final rehearsal of 'Messiah' at Town Hall. Good rehearsal and everyone confident. Nov. 29 Mon. Shirley and I took a load of Wellington visitors to Buller Lake and then to Walopehu Reserve. Evening was our performance of 'Messiah' assisted by 50 from Wellington Choral Society and an orchestra from Palmerston Nth. -A very good performance before a crowded audience which was well pleased. Soloists Winnie Frazer (Timaru) Miss Mina Caldow (Auck) Len Barnes (Wellington) and Edwin Dennis, our conductor took the tenor part with great success. Afterwards we had a social for the visitors - songs and refreshments. Dec. 5 Tues. I took Shirley and three children over to McLean's and brought home woolly ewe and 3 lambs. Evening Shirley and went to town to Plunket society concert run by Mr E. Dennis and pupils. Fair turnout. Dec. 6 Wed.


Shirley and I spent evening at Mrs Hinde's (Bridge). Dec. 17 Fri. Beautiful day. Shirley and 1 took Lois and Anne and Mrs Dr Hunter to Palmerston Nth to see the shops and visit Father Christmas. Had an enjoyable day and the children behaved well. Had a good run both ways - no stoppages. Dec. 24 Fri.


I took Shirley and children to town to see shops. first to Jones' where there was a Christmas tree. Rough night. Dec. 25 Sat. Christmas Day. Heavy wind from east and showers of rain. Up at 5 am. when we watched children opening parcels, etc. After milking Shin l and boys went to church while looked after children. Jessie away +or Christmas holidays. After dinner Frank and Ethel turned up unexpectedly - stayed tea and evening. Went down to the 'Grand' for the night. Still very rough and cold. Dec. 26 Sun. Windy and wet. At home all day. Frank and Ethel came up about 12 o'clock and stayed with us. Ethel and Shirley drove to see Clare Gardner in afternoon. Frank and 'yarned' and looked after kids. Dec. 27 Mon. Frank and Ethel left about 10 am. for Wanganui. I took Shirley, George, Jack and Duncan Rochel and kids to Otaki. Boys went to motor sports while we went to beach. Children had a great time in water. Home 6 pm. without mishap. Dec. 29 Wed. Shirley and I and two girls went to town in morning. Sent insurance policy down to collect divvy.

The Denton family have made available extracts from the diary kept by Bert Denton (22/12/1876 - 12/01/1955) from 1904 to 1954.

1906

3 Feb. Clare Adkin left for Wanganui Girls College for a year's schooling 6 March Harris had buyer up to look at property 14 March I put the rest of the afternoon in at Mackenzies dentist's when he finished covering my tooth I went thru about 2hrs of agony!! As it was raining Jen decided to come home in Beadley's coach which she did about 7 o'clock 15 March Ewes out with rams. 489 total counting rams 501 21 Mar.(Wed) Beautiful day so we decided to take the day off. I droveJen & Baby (Enid) out to see Mrs Kebbell at Ohau. Had a very enjoyable day arriving home 6 o'clock. 11 April Jen's Birthday. 20 Apl (Fri) Terrible earthquake in San Francisco. Tremendous fatalities. Jen & Will (Billy) upset & anxious about Jessie (Mrs Taylor) 25 Apl (Wed) Evening Jen suddenly became ill. I asked Ward to go down for Dr Kennedy which he kindly did when Dr arrived Jen very much better (a dose of brandy having revived her) Dr could not do much - ordered her to stay in bed & rest. I think she is very much run down, nervous about San Francisco disaster. 24 April

Gardener successful candidate for mayoralty 22 May

Jen heard through Dave Wilson of Jessie's safety 12 June News arrived that Mr Seddon P.M. of NZ had died on the voyage over from Sydney. News caused great consternation. 21 June Funeral of R.J. Seddon, PM of NZ. Tremendous crowd from all parts of the colony attended. Went to see flowers & wreaths in lobby of House. Laurie & I went to funeral first on Lambton Quay, then to cemetery. Managed to get close to grave. 4July Govt. Valuer viewed farm from top of Lower Hill, was well pleased with the property. Reckoned I could get loan of £3430, as I only wanted £3500 he said he would recommend full amt. Estimated property worth £5716 or £3-12-0 per ac. 17 July

Letter from "Pater" saying that the Govt had decided to advance full amt of loan £3500 26 Nov.(Mon) Evening I went to Adkins Land Sale Winchester Block. Good attendance. W.H. Denton bought Sect. 1 & 2 in Queen St. for £80 & £70. W.H. Wilson bought rest of Queen St. frontage 4 sections at £57-10-0 each. Will O. also bought another section for £45

Jan. 5 Sat. Helped Mr Adkin get his hay in. Later went to stay with Mr Stewart, very unwell. Jan. 6 Sun.


Mr Stewart passed quietly away. Jan. 8 Tues. Mr Stewarts funeral - large gathering of friends. Jan. 10 Thurs Miss Stewart and Mrs Gorringe left for one of the Bays. Jan. 13 Wed. Took Miss Bowles and family out to the beach. They have taken a cottage till school goes back. I drove a pair in the big buggy. Mr Comrie drove Tommy in the Phatoen Jan. 30 Wed. Took all my family to beach. Miss Bowles and family looking well. Had a dip and afternoon tea. Feb. 4 Mon.


Went to the beach and brought family home. Children seem better for change. Miss Bowles not so well. Feb. 12 Tues. Took ewes and wethers to the sale, sold 14 ewes for 31/4. 59 wethers 25/6 , 115 wethers 25/3, 2 wethers 17/6. Feb. 14 Thurs Got lambs in. Drafter out 98 culls, 289 fairly good left. March 6 Wed. Took horse and dray to meet Kebbles rams on the road. Picked out 3 at 3 guineas. He wanted 4 in the yard. They are good woolled but small. Dipped rams and 506 ewes. March 16 Sat. Miss Bowles and chn went up the river for a picnic. March 19 Tues. Morning was pitch dark up to 8.30. Must be big bush fire somewhere. No fires on place. Miss Bowles kept the chn home from school - she seemed frightened something was to happen. March 20 Wed. There have been big fires up north - a lot of damage done to stock and property. March 25 Mon.


News from the front not good. March 28 Thurs Miss Bowles and the kiddies going out to the beach. Murray taking their things out. Miss Bowles taking the phatoen and keeping it there. April 1 Mon.


Went to Kirkcaldies funeral after dinner. April 8 Mon. Vickers came about 3 o'clock. Sheep not good enough for him. Miss Bowles and family back from the beach. May 20 Mon. Went to Wellington to see about a box of tea. Mr WDenton and Mr P Denton both looking well. May 22 Wed. Did not go over. Had a day of cutting wood for Mrs Barron. June 13 Thurs Had a look around the pound. Five hoggets dead, making six for this week. Don't know what the trouble is. July 6 Sat.


Went to Gorringe's land sale. 73/10/- per acre was the highest price paid. All sections sold under the hammer. July 19 Fri. Just as well I took the hoggets of+ the back hill. It whits with snow - coldest days for sometime. Showers of snow all day. July 22 Mon. Coldest day this year. About 4 pm started to snow by 5pm there was 2" on ground. Gone by morning. July 24 Wed.


Went to Kirkcaldies land sale. The homestead was passed in at £70 per acre. Section across the road sold for £80/10/- Maori lease sold for £750/-/- goodwill. August 6 Tues. Miss Bowles and family went off to Masterton. Bradley took them to the station. August 19 Mon. Family back from Masterton. August 27 Tue. Milne's estate for sale. Two sections sold under the hammer. Homestead for £4,6 per acre, 100 acres for £30 an acre. Sept. 8 Sun.


Miss Bowles gone to Shannon. Mrs Law not well. The children staying at Mr Adkins. Sept. 15 Sun. Mr W. Denton from Wellington and I had a look around the whole farm. Oct. 5 Sat.


Gave Jack the motherless lambs to look after. Busy withlambing and docking. Nov. 1 Fri. Good war news today. Turkey has surrendered. So Bert may be home in time for his Christmas dinner yet. Nov. 2 Sat.


Miss Bowles and children helping Miss Adkin all day with Red Cross. Nov. 4 Mon.


Austria has surrendered - great rejoicing in Levin. Germany must give in now. Nov. 8 Fri.


Very rough windy days. A report came through that peace was proclaimed - people started to get very excited, kiddies got out of school - word came it was a false report. Nov. 9 Sat.


Miss Bowles is head nurse for Mrs Leslie - a son yesterday. Kiddies stayed with me for a few days. Nov. 11 Mon. Kiddies home early from school - closing school on account of influenza. Nov. 12 Tues. A day never to be forgotten. P.O. rang me to say Peace was proclaimed, told me to tell the others on the line. Told Miss Bowles to get the children ready and I would take them to town to join in the rejoicing. They had a great day of it. I want to the United Services - hall was crowded. Nov. 13 Wed. Had another day in town. Children walked over and I took them over. Home about 6 o'clock - dead beat. Another Procession tonight but I wont venture out. Nov. 19 Tues. Sale has been postponed owing to influenza. Nov. 20 Wed. Went to Levin after dinner, shops all closed, banks closed for a week because of influenza. Murray very ill and his wife dead.


Nov. 27 Sat. Cleaned up the machines and then went and looked for shearers. Could not find anyone to promise to come. Murray improving. Nov. 25 Mon.


In afternoon took a few things down to Levin for the sick people and for Murray - he is improving. Nov. 28 Thurs Murray turned up looking ver shakey on it. He put some metal around the yard. A terrible mess with mud. Dec. 8 Sun.


Terrible wet day with thunder and lightening all day. Dec. 9 Mon.


Still raining so no chance of shearing for a few days. One very bad slip on the hill. Dec. 12 Thurs No shearers turned up. Murray and I made a start. Continued to Sat 21 after much trouble with shearing mchine. Early start - i.e. 5 am - 6.30 pm. Had a Maori to help. Dec. 24 Tues. Took Miss Bowles and family down to town for the evening. Dec. 25 Wed. We all went to Miss Stewart's for Christmas dinner. Had a good time. Dec. 26 Thurs Miss Bowles and family went to the beach with Adkins

Jan. 1 Tues. All went to picnic up Ohau. Big party Vickers, Dentons. Irvines, Hamiltons, Jacks, Stewarts. Percy Ports machine went sour on him and I assisted to milk by hand 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Jan. 2 Wed.

Enid went to Hawera on holiday. We went to swimmingsports. Levin v. Stop-out Club. 22-20 pts. George swam for Levin and did well. He then rode out to beach to stay with Percy. John and I helped Percy Port milk in morning. Right hand very sore and swelled. Jan. 4 Fri.

Beautiful day so decided to go to Hokio for the day. Very hot, 50, we were very burnt. Had bathe and gathered pipis. Jan. 6 Sun. Brought Ray and Dorrie up for the day. George returned from the beach. Jan. 8 Tues. Took George to train to P.N. to stay with Walter Carter's son. Charlie Collins arrived by 7.45 train. Jan. 9 Wed.

Walked round with Charlie Collins in morning. Shirley took him to meet train to return to Auckland. Jack and I finished cutting thistles on terrace. Jan. 12 Sat. Shirley and I went to town in afternoon. Bought chest of drawers at Channings and Webbers. Hottest day of the season. Jan. 15 Tues. Wrote to Laurie re additional land tax. Jan. 19 Sat. George and I dipped lambs in Coopers Fluid Dip. Later George and I made swimming hole. Jan. 22 Tues. Fine and very hot - we spent most of our time in bathing pool. Lois made a good attempt to swim. Jan. 23 Wed. Afternoon Jack and I took up floor in woolshed to reset engine. Jan. 24 Thurs. Enid returned home from Feilding and Hawera. Jan. 25 Fri. We all went by car to Paraparaumu beach. Good run down, had bathe and lunch. Lot of houses already built there. Left for home about 4 p.m. - had two punctures - home 7 p.m. Jan. 28 Mon. Shirley, Polly, Lois, George and I drove to Mr A. Thorne's place to look at lambs. Jan. 29 Tues. Shirley and Enid went with Adkins to pictures. Jan. 30 Wed. Afternoon we all went to Levin Swimming Sports. George competed in 4 events. 1st in 100 yds breaststroke, 2nd plunge, 3rd diving and 50 yds. Jan. 31 Thurs. All went to Levin show - heavy rain for 3 hrs from 12.30. Feb. 3 Sun.

We all went to C. of E. at 4 p.m. to have Dorothy Anne christened. She behaved splendidly. Feb. 5 Tue. Mr Adams and I visted school. Committee meeting in evening. Shirley, Polly and George went to pictures - The Christian.' Feb. 6 Wed.

Polly left by Napier Mail on her way to Waimate and Dunedin. Feb. 7 Thurs. Doris Wilson and Rita Farland spent day here. Billy Wilson and Les came up in evening. Willie Stewart and Peter also here for tea. Feb. 8 Fri.

George and I went over to McLean's and brought back two of my bullocks that had got in there. Feb. 9 Sat. Afternoon I went with Willie St. and Mr Adkin to funeral of Mrs Pyke wife of manager of Bank of N.Z. Been suffering for long time. Big funeral. Feb. 10 Sun. Children want to church and brought back Mrs and Miss Hitchcock. Shirley and I took them home at 7.30 p.m. Feb. 12 Tues. I put in a couple of hours at dentist - MacKenzie. Feb. 13 Wed. We all went to school picnic at Plimmerton - great success and most enjoyable. Feb. 15 Fri. George went to dentist. Farewell to Vickers at Helen and Leuden Tingey. Feb. 17 Sun. Drove down to Becketts to say goodbye to Helen who is noing to be nurse at Wellinoton Hosp. Feb. 18 Mon. Still raining heavily. About 4 inches of rain in 43 hours. Has done tremendous amount of good. Feb. 20 Wed. Sledged down posts and put them in on boundary in front of house. Miss Sybil Wright married Mr J. Hunt. There was a dance in St. Mary's Hall in evening. Shirley, Enid, George went. Feb.23 Sat. - 5 March Wed. Shirley, Lois, Anne and I spent this time at Plimmerton living in Mrs D.E. MacKenzie's cottage. Had fine weather all the time. Plenty of bathing. Lois became quite experienced in water and caused a lot of interest amongst seasiders. March. 5 Wed.

We all returned home by Napier Mail. March. 7 Fri. Went to Wellington by Napier Mail. Travelled with Laurie and W.G.D. - meeting of family in evening, discussing cutting up of Fern Hill - also yearly a/c and matters in general. March. 8 Sat.

Will and I walked up to look at Prendergasts estate 2g sections on Bolton St. - some very rough sections, some good. Afternoon Will and I went to see test match (Cricket) N.S.W. V. N.Z. 293 - 69 and 79. Very poor display by N.Z. Family meeting in evening. March. 10 Mon. Pictures and Allenville, and Fullers in evening with Percy, Laurie, Alice and Mrs White (2) March. 11 Tues. Laurie and I returned home by Napier Mail. March. 12 Wed. George and I felled totara on low hill. Sawed it twice and commenced to split it. March. 14 Fri. I worked on fence. George swotted. March. 16 Sun. Went to church. Afternoon went to see Mari and George Broomfield. March. 19 Wed. Afternoon took Shirley down to D.S.MacKenzie to have teeth attended to. Also sent bo>: of apples each to F.J.D. and Fern Hill. Jack went to P.N. with school swimming team but were badly beaten by Central School 116-26. March. 20 Thurs. Miss Bevan brought Maxwell, Mrs Neylon and Miss Reeve up to see us. March. 23 Sun. Billy Wilson, Amy and Doris drove up to see us. March. 25 Tues. Digging a garden for raspberries. March. 26 Wed. School swimming sports in afternoon. Primary school 39 Secondary 28. March. 30 Sun. Drove to Tully's in afternoon. March. 31 Mon. Went with Ron Law in his Chevrolet to Pahiatua to cattle fair. Had good trip over 9 a.m. - 11.15 over the hill track. Good healthy country but steep. Road on other side steep and crooked. Ron and I and dealer from Palmerston Nth came back via the Gorge. Very enjoyable ride - arrived back just after dark. No lights. Distance 43 miles there. 54 miles back thro Gorge. April. 4 Fri. George and I rode over to Ron Law's place at Shannon to pick up 29 steers I had bought at Pahiatua. Cattle rather footsore but in good condition. Home at dark. April. 6 Sun.

At home. George and Marjorie Broomfield over for dinner. April. 7 Mon.

George carted 4 loads of firewood. I dug garden and Shinl and I planted raspberries. April. 9 Wed.

Shin, Enid and I went to Levin. Visit of inspection of school by members of school committee. April. 12 Sat. Went to football. George played for Rovers II (Junior Cup) who beat Hui Mai 11-0. April. 13 Sun. Jack, Helen and Lois went to Presbyterian church. Willie S. and Peter over to dinner, April. 17 Thurs. Dipping. 246 old ewes, 266 young ewes, 176 Iambs, 3 culls 16 rams. April. I8 Fri. Worked all day in garden. Cleared space east of dining room window. Good Friday. April. 19 Sat. W.M.Beckett and Rex drove up in afternoon. April. 20 Sun. Shirley, Enid and George went to 6 a.m. Communion. April. 21 Mon. Easter Monday. All went to Kimberley Rd crossing for picnic. Mrs Vickers, Irvine, Davies, Kirkcaldie, Miss Kebbell. Very pleasant day. April. 22 Tues. Railway strike commenced today. April. 24 Thurs. Cut down macrocarpa hedge at front mete and burnt it up. April. 25 Fri. Anzac Day. All went to service. Address by Rev. McArthur. Choir sang '0 Radiant Morn Evening Shirley and I t to service in Century Hall. Male choir sang 'Old Brigade' and 'Comrades at Arms' April. 26 Sat. Annual meeting of Farmers Union. Small meeting. I was appointed delegate for Levin at Provincial Conference at Feilding. Strike still on, few trains running. George went to Paraparaumu to play football against locals. Para. 12 Rovers E. April. 27 Sun. Percy Port over to dinner. Mr and Mrs Jack and Miss March drove up in afternoon. April. 29 Tues. Car jibbed on us on way to sale. Sawtell sent Jack Barnett up to fix it. Sale over when I arrived. Sid Sievers brought me home in his car to look at fat bullocks. On our arrival home car again jibbed - failed to start. April. 30 Wed. George and I spent morning oiling up car. Evening pictures - 'Covered Wagon' with Willie Stewart. May. 2 Fri.

Shirley took Jack and I to corner Queen St. in car to catch coach for Levin 6.30 a. m. Car refused to start back home, and evetually Willie Stewart towed it to Sawtells. Jack and I went to Wellington with Levin School to visit H.M.S. Hood. Heavy showers. Had a look round warship but had not time to see her properly, too big a crowd. Left town at 3 p.m. home 6.20 p.m. after noisy trip. 3 Sat. Went to town to pick up car. Spent some time with boy oiling up. Battery charged. May. 5 Mon.

Householders meeting Century Hall. Good crowd. Shirley, Willie S. and I drove down. Committee elected - Matheson 51, Kerslake 76, Gardiner 70, Adams 70, Proctor 64, Rimmer 60, Anderson 55, Shennans E.5, Connor 55. (F.G.Roe 54, Ramsay 53 rejected). May. 6 Tues. Went with W.G.A. by Napier Mail to Wellington. Meeting of the clan. May. 7 Wed.

Afternoon want with Will to Bethune's Auction Rooms where Fern Hill offered at auction. No bid for place as whole, or for house. All sections passed in. 1300 pounds offered for No. 5 and 1600 pounds for Sect. 6. No business done.

Afternoon tea at Fern Hill. Home by Field's train. Enid spent day in Wellington visiting H.M.S. Hood. Arrived Levin we went to school concert where family was. Big crowd Century Hall.

May. 8 Thurs. George and I spent day on boundary fence. Shirley, Enid and Jack at school concert. May. 10 Sat. Harold Denton arrived from Wanganui. Also Boyer Beckett from Wellington. May. 14 Wed. George carted 2 loads of rata blocks. ,en Biss and Beryl up for tea and evening. May. 16 Fri. Jack, Harold, Boyer, Shirley and Lois went to evening at Miss Middlamiss'. May. 17 Sat. Took Boyer down to slow train 1.30 and then went to football first to see George play with Rovers v. Weraroa II 0-4. May. 18 Sun. All but Enid went to C. of E. May. 19 Mon. Fine but dull and cold. We went with Stewarts to Hokio beach for day. Enjoyable time. Home at dark. May. 20 Tues. Town in afternoon with Shirley. George, Enid, Harold and Jack went to dance given by Mesdames MacKenzie and Hobson. May. 21 Wed. Will Beckett and Mary and Miss Kinvig came up in afternoon. Shirley and I went to picture 'Bella Donna - fair. May. 22 Thurs. Y.N.C.A. social in evening. Enid and I went and sang for them. May. 23 Fri. Afternoon we took Jack, Harold and Percy Port to C.D. Farm to hear lecture by Gramsdale Anderson and Merney on Farmers Union matters, very interesting. Also meeting in People's Theatre in evening. Shirley and I took Willie Stewart. Vincent annoyed. May. 24 Sat. Shirley took Harold down to meet New Plymouth express for his return home. May. 27 Tues. George took a vealer calf (with its mother and two cows for company) to Carter's paddock on Arapaepae Rd where Carter takes delivery. Two big macrocarpas were blown down by gale. May. 28 Wed.

Shirley, Dorothy Anne and I went to Feilding by New Plymouth Mail to stay with fellows. Alb met us. May. 29 Thurs. I attended Inter-Provincial Conference of Farmers Union as Levin Branch delegate. Found I had to speak to the 3rd remit on order paper. i.e. the improvements of Main Roads. Alf McLeavey seconded and the remit was carried. Spent whole day at Conference. Frank, Ethel and Miss Dingle with Charlie Houghton turned up in morning. Ladies had dinner at Kellows and we men had lunch in town. Frank and co. left for Wanganui in afternoon. Alb and I went to smoke concert in evening. Fair turn out, very cold. May. 30 Fri. Spent whole day at conference with exception of visit Feilding Agricultural College- fine buildings and apparently capable staff. Home in evening. May. 31 Sat. Afternoon - Alb and Vi took us to meet N.P. train. Everything alright. June. 2 Mon. Shirley drove me to the C.D. Farm where I am attending Farmer's class for a week. About 60 students staying. Lectures start at 0 p.m. after official by Mayor and Ken Aitken etc. June. 3 Tues. Fine. Lectures all day. Harry Booth of Carterton lecturing on Dairy Cow. Lecture by Mr W. Perry of Masterton on sheep breeding supplemented by lantern slides. Practical illustrations on quality of wool and important points of sheep breeding. Evening lecture on grasses by Mr Levy - excellent. June. 5 Thurs. Practical demonstration of farm implements by Mr Shepherd and McCulloch. Practical demonstration of pasture grasses by Levy - very good. Draining by McCulloch. Tuberculosis in cattle (practical) by vet Collins. Evening pigs by Gorringe one of the best) June. 6 Fri. Lectures - concreting, fruit pruning, poultry keeping. Afternoon outing by Levin residents to Bevan's at Manakau, Boys Training Farm and drive round Levin. Evening concert by Levin party and students (very successful) followed by supper, speeches. Home with Willie and George. June. 9 Mon. George and I commenced to crutch ewes. Machine ran well, greatly improved since I reset it. Adkin and Viv over to tea and the evening re Fern Hill business. June. 11 Wed. I went with Jack Young and G.D. Hamilton in G.D.H.'s car to P.N. to Annual reunion of the W.M.R. regiment. Good crowd, fair turnout. June. 13 Fri. In attempting to start the engine (for crutching) George received a bad blow with the handle on his eye. Knocked him out temporarily. June. 15 Sun. Mrs Vickers and Miss Marsh up to see us. June. 18 Wed. George swotting. June. 19 Thurs. Willie S. brought Mr Wildbore to look at shearing machine. The grinding of the combs and cutters seemed to be the trouble. Eventually got two of the machines running fairly well. June. 20 Fri. Mr Kemp brought two sacks of potatoes and had a look round. On his advice we moved duck yard to far orchard . June. 22 Sun. Drove down to see Ray and Dorrie. Johnny's birthday. Gracie Vickers up for the weekend. June. 27 Fri. George and I dug holes for trees in plantation. Mrs Biss and Misses Glass-Ford up to see Shirley in afternoon. June. 28 Sat. Annual meeting of A. & P. Assoc. I was elected to the COTi. July. 1 Tues. R.S.A. annual reunion - dinner at Grand Hotel - social evening in garage opposite. I took Arthur Pryor with me. July. 2 Wed.

I took Percy Port to Savage Club. July. 3 Thurs. Shirley and I went to Fisk Jubilee singers in evening. Fair. July. 6 Sun. Mr and Mrs Kernohan and Miss Trainer paid us a visit in afternoon. Mr K. and I had walk round. C. of E. in evening. July. 9 Wed. Mr Richardson of Hodder and Tolley paid me a visit, took a walk round paddocks. Shirley and Enid went with Percy Port to the pictures. July. 11 Fri. At dinner time Sid Tidswell late 2nd W.M.R. Palestine called to see me, staying till next morning. Shirley, he and I drove round in his car in afternoon Lake, C.D. Farm. Boys' Farm. Bridge in evening. Percy Port over. Billy Vickers bought fat bullocks at 8/101-. July. 12 Sat. Sid Tidswell 'left about 10 a.m. for Wanganui taking George with him as far as Palmerston Nth. George is spending weekend with young Carter. Shirley and I went to town. Shirley went to see Beryl. I to committee meeting of A. & P. July. 13 Sun. Shirley and the children and I went over to Stewarts in afternoon. July. 14 Mon. George returning from Palmerston Nth. July. 16 Wed. Mr Irving brought his wife and lady friends up to see Shirley. He and I walked up to the hoggets. July. 19 Sat. George drove e fat bullocks to railway station for Mr Vickers. I went to Farmers Union meeting. Lois and Anne went to children's party at Adkins. July. 20 Sun. Afternoon Gerald, Guy and Mary Beckett came up to see us. Stayed to dinner and evening. Percy Port over to dinner. July. 23 Wed. Evening Shirley went to Levin with me and visited Mrs MacKenzie whose boy Peter took ill. I went to Savage Club till 10 p.m. July. 25 Fri. George and I went to P.N. to see match All Blacks v. Manawatu Horowhenua. (27-12) 15,000 spectators - good game to watch but no superior play. July. 28 Mon. Brought Cliff's cultivator over before breakfast - used it to grub out about 1 1/2 acres shells - did the work well. Aug. 1 Fri. Evening took John to 'Father and Son' banquet Y.M.C.A. Good turnout. Addresses by Mr Caughley, Director of Education and Dr. Bryson. Afterwards Shirley, Enid and I went to Humphrey Bishop and co. Only. fair. Aug. 2 Sat.

George and 1 splitting posts. George hurt his hand through log rolling down hill on it. Basic slag arrived. Andrews brought it up. 4 tons at 10/- and 2/6/3 freight. At dinner time Frank, Eth Elsie Beaven el Harold and arrived unexpectedly on way to Wellington. Aug. 3 Sun.

Went to see Mr and Mrs Turton in afternoon. Aug. 5 Tues. Enid and George went to town in afternoon. Bridge down on Queen St. had to pull them out with horse. Aug. 9 Sat.

George and I put in day topdressing basic slag on hay paddock - sowed about 2 112 cwt. to acre. Beastly job. Alb KelIow and Vi and Gordon arrived from Feilding to stay till Sunday night. Also Mrs Baxter and son Quentin - friends of Shiriey's arrived to stay. Spent jolly evening. Aug. 10 Sun. Alb and I walked round in morning. They returned to Feilding 4 p.m. Mr Staples calling for them. Aug. 13 Wed. Ladies night at the Savage Club. I took Shirley and Dosh. Fair turn out. Dance to finish. Aug. 14 Thurs. George swotted all day. Aug. 15 Fri. George and I sowed about 13 bags of slag by hand on terrace and near pine trees on top. Aug. 17 Sun. G.D.Hamilton and wife up to see us in afternoon. Aug. 23 Sat. Had some trouble with lambs which took my time most of the day. Could not go to A.P. Assoc. meeting. Levin Savage Club paid a visit to P.N. Percy P and I went with Clifford Adkin. Aug. 24 Sun. Fine. We all went to Hokio for the day. Very nice outing. Aug. 25 Mon. Jack and I planted macrocarpas. About 100 plants over for next year. George commenced weeks military training. Aug. 26 Tues. Shirley, Dash and I went to hear Enid sing at Presbyterian school in preparation for Competitions. She performed very well. Aug. 28 Thurs. Shirley, Enid and I went to Golf Ball - very good turn out. Had a puncture on way home and had to leave car on Queen St. Jack Varnham kindly drove us home at 4 a.m. Aug. 29 Fri. Mended puncture and brought car home. Percy Port and I erected cream stand on QueenSt. where we are to leave our cans to be picked up by lorry. Sept. 1 Sun. Shirley and Bosh went with Clifford Adkin and Miss - Dyer to Mangahao and had an enjoyable day. Rest of us stayed at home all day. Sept. 7 Sun.

Took Bosh for ride up low hill to show her the view, also up flat and round terrace. Afternoon Dosh, Shirl, the children and I motored to Buller Lake. Sept. 9 Tues. Mrs Baxter and Quentin left For Wellington. Sept. 20 Sat. Went to town in evening to pick up prize dinner and bad sweets- won by Shirley at Plunket shop day. Sept. 21 Sun. George and I went with Port family Percy, Bert and Cecil to Mangaheo in Bert's Ford, Had a good run and saw everything. Sept. 24 Wed. Took Shirley to MacKenzie to have tooth drawn - gas. Sept. 25 Thurs. In afternoon Willie Stewart came and we handled the filly. Put on headstall and bit and gave her a run round. Afterwards we put saddle on and eventually George rode her round. Very quiet and satisfactory. Sept. 28 Sun. At home all day. Prevented from going to church on a/c of poor lights. Mr Port and Percy over for dinner. Sept. 30 Tues. Evening Shirley and I went to Marietana put on by local Choral Society assisted by Mrs Wildish, Len Barnes, C.A.Williams,Mrs Kilsby and H.Hunter. Very enjoyable evening. Enid staying with Ray and Dorrie. Oct. 1 Wed.

Savage Club. Len Barnes a visitor. Read story and sang in quartet. Oct. 2 Thurs. Evening Shirley and I took Enid and Mrs Vickers to Ohau to assist at concert. Enid sang and our Quartet sang three pieces. Oct. 7 Tues. Shirley and I went to lecture by C.H.Hunter on care of teeth. Poor audience. Oct. 8 Wed.

H. Jones and wife and Taylor and Mothershed up in evening. Oct. 11 Sat. Met New Plymouth Mail and brought Will Denton home with me. Adkin and Clare over in evening. Decided to authorize W.H.D. to carry on with alterations to Fern Hill. Oct. 12 Sun. W.H.D. and I rode round. Afternoon we went off to Cheslyn Rise and Broomfields. Stayed at Cheslyn Rise to tea and evening. Oct. 15 Wed. Final Savage Club in evening. Took Willie Stewart, good programme. Quartette from Wellington including Len Barnes. Oct. 17 Fri. Enid sick. Clare took her to Cheslyn Rise to nurse her - probably measles. Oct. 18 Sat. Drove Shirley to town. Heavy rain. Enid feeling better. Oct. 21 Tues. In evening Shirley and I visited Mr W.R. Jack re electricity for Fern Hill. Oct. 24 Fri. Mrs K. Biss gave birth to baby boy. Oct. 25 Sat. Took Shirley to town in afternoon. Met Percy and Alice who were passing through Wanganui for weekend. Oct. 26 Sun. Afternoon Mr and Mrs Turton paid us a visit. Evening Shirley and I went to church.

Oct. 30 Thurs. Miss Middlemiss's concert in aid of school funds. Nov. 1 Sat.

Town in afternoon. Met Mr and Mrs Barron. Nov. 2 Sun. Took Shirley to Tully's to see Beryl and baby in afternoon. Nov. 4 Tues. Went on with shearing but grinding still faulty. R.G.D. turned and I walked with him to Adkins to endeavour to have gear ground there, which Clifford kindly did. Rob to tea and evening on business re Fern Hill. Nov. 5 Wed. Stewarts and Robert over for Guy Fawkes evening. Nov. 6 Thurs. Had rotten time. Had good run with shearing machine until 10 a.m. Had stoppage which Eric, and later Sawtell could not fix, eventually took engine to shop to be overhauled and reset - not finished till 11.15 p.m. Nov. 7 Fri. Sawtell had to come up first thing to readjust engine and after that it went well, had a good day. Nov. 11 Tues. Finished young ewes and Iambs. Dry ewes - lust finishing when machine broke down. I was so disgusted that after Sawtell had been up I decided to pay off shearers. Prouse here with his hoggets to shear tomorrow. Nov. 12 Wed. After endeavouring to get engine going without success decided to continue by blade. Bert Prouse and I shore most of hoggets before night. Hefty sheep, big fleeces Nov. l6 Sun.

Percy Port, George and I finished shearing old ewes. Jolly glad to have the lob over. Dead beat.

Dec. 6 Sat. Enid went to Plunket Garden Party at Mrs Park's. Left car at SawtelIs as it was going badly. Dec. 10 Wed. Drop in wool at Napier sale. My fleece valued at 25 1/2 to 26 pence. Dec. 11 Thurs. George brought car home from Sawtells. Evening Shirley, Enid and I went to Oratorio "Messiah" by Levin Choral Society assisted by Mrs Woodward and Miss Calder and Messrs Walters and Butler. Also at party of men from Wellington and orchestra from Palmerston Nth.Excellent concert. George finished metric exam. Dec. 12 Fri. Hanson and Barr's men turned up and started to put in wires for electric light. Decided to have light for the car shed. Extra light on the front verandah and point for sweeper. Got estimate for range , hat water and he is to give me details of shearing plant. Dec. 13 Sat. Went to meeting of A & P Assoc. Afterwards Shirley, Lois and I went to Wellington by Napier Mail. Stayed at Fern Hill. After tea Shirley and I went to Town Hall to see wool sold. Sale rather dragging but we sold our wool. 10 bales fine X bred E at 24 1/4 pence - a very satisfactory price. Home late, Edith gave us supper. Dec. 14 Sun. All went to Taranaki St church in morning and in afternoon Shirley, Lois, Helen and I went to zoo. Lois very interested. Percy and Alice over in evening to see us. Dec. 15 Mon. Round town in the morning. Went to Murray Roberts Wool Store to see wool opened up. Compared well with others. Clifford Adkin got 22 1/2 pence; Leslie 22 1/4 pence; Gimblett 23 1/4 pence. Family meeting in the evening. Decided that Will should take over sections 2-3-4 at 2500 pounds and convert house into flats - a further payment of up to 1750 pounds when the speculation proved remunerative. In event of sale of Section 2 with house, the family be given the option of participating in any surplus that may accrue after paying W.H.D. for use of money and other expenses. Dec. 16 Tues. Returned home by New Plymouth Mail. George met us - home for dinner. Dec. 23 Tues. I killed 2 lambs for Christmas for Vickers, Stewarts, Ports and Dentons. Dec. 24 Wed. Shirley,Lois and I went to town in morning for shopping and paying accounts. Met Napier Mail and brought Edith and Kate home to spend Christmas with us. Edith and Kate looked after the house while the rest of us went to Levin for Christmas Eve. Dec. 25 Thurs. Christmas Day Shirley, George, and Enid went to 7 a.m. communion. Had lots of fun inspecting presents. Children got tremendous heaps of them. At home all day. Mr and Miss Port here in afternoon. Dec. 26 Fri. Up late but decided to go to the beach. Left about midday and had a very enjoyable day. Used Shirley's new umbrella shelter. Dec. 28 Sun. Jack, George, Edith and Kate went to Methodist Church in morning. Shirley, Enid and I to Church of England in evening. (Rev. Fielden Taylor). Dec. 31 Wed. In evening Katie shouted Edith, Shirley and me to pictures 'Hunchback of Notre Dame' Very good. Enid and George to Gorringe's party.

Jan. 1 Sun.


Fine and very hot. At home all day. Shirley and I went to Tullys in afternoon. Jan. 2 Mon. Beautiful day. We all went to Hokio for the day. Took the car on to the beach and drove a good way past the wreck. Had good swim. Jan. 3 Tues. Took family to Otaki Beach. Disagreeable wind so did not bathe. Evening Shirley and I took Mrs Redman Norman V. and Miss Stansell to Ohau to farewell Mr & Mrs Guy Marriott who are leaving for Carterton. Good turnout. Jan. 8 Sun. Fine. All went to church including three children. Afternoon Turton visited us. Jan. 10 Tues. Afternoon at Stewarts. Mrs Cameron and daughter there. They took Mrs Stewart to Porirua yesterday to see Willie. Jan. 11 Wed. Evening called to see Dr Hunter on Mrs Stewart's business. Afterwards A & P Assn meeting. Supper at Maxwells. Shirley Mrs Tully, Mr T, H.J. Richards and R.A. MacDonald. Jan. 19 Thurs.

We left about 11 am. for Paraparaumu Beach arriving there about 2 pm. and putting up at Miss Dalrymple's house at 5 pounds a week. Spent a very pleasant fortnight there in excellent weather - fine except for a light shower one morning. Shirley and I came up to Levin for a couple of days during Levin Show as I had to assist. I had to officiate at the blackboard. We stayed the night at Mrs Tullys and we took a run home in the evening and I had a look around and found things alright but very parched. Returned home on Friday 3 February. Ron and Dora and family also staying Paraparaumu at the same time.

Feb. 5 Sun.

Very hot. At home all day. Mr & Mrs Kernohan paid us a visit in the afternoon. Showed Mr K. where I proposed to put in ram and he thinks it quite workable. Bathed at swimming hole.

Feb. 6 Mon.

Fine and very hot. Lois made her first appearance at school. Shirley took her down in morning and registered her as a scholar. John returned to Feilding to school by Auckland Express.

Feb. 8 Wed.

Ray Jones and family came up in afternoon and we took levels at the creek in view of pumping water to the house. There seems to be plenty of fall to work the ram.

Feb. 9 Thurs.

Fine. Up early and after milking we set out by car for Marton taking Mr & Mrs Tully with us. Took Anne and Bill and Dick - Lois at school. Good run up - two hours. Lunch with Mrs Ken Biss. Mr Tully and I went to ram fair. Bought 4 one shear romney rams bred by S. Williamson, Waituna at 3 gns. Left for home about 5 pm. Had puncture this side of Foxton. Arrived Levin 7.15 pm.

Feb. 12 Sun.

Drove to see Kernohans at Koputaroa taking Ray Jones with us. Had a look around the farm and inspected the ram and water supply which seemed very satisfactory.

Feb. 15 Wed.

Afternoon I met Napier Mail and brought home new English school boy Ted Saunders. Likely looking boy. Called at doctors and Mrs Stewarts.

Feb. 18 Sat.

Afternoon I went to town with Shirley who came home with bad throat and went to bed feeling very seedy.

Feb. 19 Sun.

Nice showers. Took children to town in morning - called at Dr Hunters for medicine. He and Mrs Hunter called in afternoon and he examined Shirley. I had to go to town in evening for more medicine.

Feb. 20 Mon.

Fine Ted and I started putting piping together and fixed up for ram.

Feb. 25 Sat.

Afternoon took Shirley and children to town to Hitchcocks and brought Lois home after staying there since Tuesday.

Feb. 26 Sun.

Fine. Mr & Mrs Tully came over and spent the day with us. Mrs Tully helped Shirley while Elsie went home. Shirley took children to see doctor. Had puncture.

Feb. 27 Mon.

Afternoon I went to town - had car tuned up. Channings gave me some advice re septic tank. Met 5 pm. train and brought home Doris Beckett and Miss Ames who are staying with us for a couple of days. Choral. Had letter from Mr Mace of Brougham St. Wgtn. enquiring for land about 100 acres. Sent letter on to Mr Monrad.

Feb. 29 Wed.

Fine. Ray came 9 am. and we laid three quarter inch pipe to wash house and soldered tank. Doris and Miss Ames left by Napier Mail.

March. 2 Fri.

Went to Wgtn. by first train to be present at opening of Memorial Hall created by Old Boys who fell in War. About Old Boys who served, on parade. Met Guy Fowles, Len and Jerry Daniel on parade. Hall crowded with past and present pupils and next of kin. Sir Charles Ferguson unveilled Memorial. Short speech from J. F. Firth read by Mrs J.P.F. He is looking very frail and could not speak. Very successful function. Evening took Edith and Miss Margaret Morrison to De Luxe to see Harold Lloyd.

March. 3 Sat.

Returned home by first train.Met Mick Galvin and travelled with him from Paekakariki. Also Mr D.P. Lynch. Meeting of Manawatu Provincial. Not much business. Bert Prouse dipping.

March. 4 Sun.

Afternoon took Mrs Stewart and Helen for drive to Kimberley Road Crossing. Official opening of Waiopehu track and hut. About 100 people went up.

March. 7 Wed.

Shirley took Dick to Dr Hunter for slight operation. Came through well.

March. 8 Thurs.

Evening Ted, Shirley and Helen Stewart went to carnival in aid of Women's Rest Room. Had letter from Matron Feilding Ag. High School saying John laid up with bad attack of influenza. Temp 102. Doctor in attendance. Rang up for particulars and she said Johns's temperature was 103o so she was to ring Doctor for instructions. Promised to keep me posted as to his condition.

March. 9 Fri.

Had a ring from Dr. at Feilding Ag. High saying Jack's condition still serious with some suspicious symptoms indicating infantile paralysis so he deemed it advisable to send John to Palmerston Nth hospital. Mrs Smale, the Matron at the school accompanied John in ambulance and saw him safely housed at hospital.

March. 10 Sat.

George Thompson came and fixed place for septic tank and had a look round job.

March. 11 Sun.

About house all day. Jack's condition still serious.

March. 13 Tues.

Rang Hospital. John greatly improved - able to get up.

March. 14 Wed.

Fine. Heavy wind from east. Shirley and I went to Palmerston Nth to see John at the hospital. Arrived there just after 2 pm. and found John looking washed out and thin but on improve. Interviewed Superintendent Dr Ward who said that John has no sign of infantile paralysis as was suspected and he would be discharged in few days. He will notify us and we will collect him. Shirley knew Dr Ward's wife and called on her while I talked to John. Left 4.30 pm. Levin 5.45 pm. Mrs Vickers, Mrs Stansella, Norman up in evening. Big fire on Read's property on hill, whole hillside alight and some fires apparently on my place.

March. 17 Sat.

Geo. Thompson, Tom Johnson came up and made a start on septic tank. Afternoon I went to town with Shirley. Tennis afternoon for Rest Room. I went to cricket.

March. 18 Sun.

Elsie did not turn up last night so we were short-handed. Went to Palmerston Nth in afternoon 1.45 pm. to bring John home. Afternoon tea with Dr & Mrs Ward. The doctor turned out to be the son of Mr W.F. Ward who taught me at Wgtn. College. Picked up John at 4 pm. and home about 6 pm.

March. 23 Fri.

Shirley and I went to Wgtn. by first train. Lunch at Becketts, Island Bay. Shirley had her teeth x-rayed. I went to Fern Hill while Shirley and Helen went shopping. Intended to see W. H. Denton prior to his departure to England but failed to locate him. Home by 8.30 Choir and pictures.

March. 24 Sat.

Annual Meeting Farmers' Union. About 20 present. I was re-elected President, Mr McNaught Secretary. Discussion on abbatoir. Shirley made a start at golf.

March.25 Sun.

Afternoon Mr & Mrs W.R. Jack, Mr & Mrs Cripps up to see us. Church in evening. Met Harold and Mrs McLeavey.

March. 27 Tues.

Went to Harold McLeaveys for dinner. Fatted fowls killed and cooked for occasion.

March.30 Fri.

Took Shirley and Mrs Tully to town and they went to picture 'Faust' I went to Church of England practice.

March. 31 Sat.

Went to town on Farmers' Union business. Deputation to stock firms re hurry on sales.

April. 4 Wed. Evening I helped in Cantata 'Ohbert(?) to Calvary' by Church of England Choir. Very fair rendering. April. 5 Thurs. Mr & Mrs Walker of Eastbourne came by morning train to stay with us over Easter. Ted cleaned up round house. In afternoon Mr Walker and I walked up to fires and burned pungas etc. April. 6 Fri. Good Friday. Afternoon we took Mr & Mrs Walker and children for drive up Ohau past Trass' old house. Weather overcast but no rain. April. 7 Sat. Dull. Afternoon drove visitors to C.D. Farm and afterwards down Arawhata Road to Papaitonga Lake. Rain came on while we were walking in bush and we got wet. April. 8 Sun. Mr & Mrs Walker, Shirley and I, and Ted went to 8 o'clock communion. Afternoon I acted as pallbearer at funeral of Mrs Bowen who died on Good Friday (79) Other pallbearers A. Prouse, T. Brown, C. Adkin, C. Bartholomew, and W. Whitaker. April. 9 Mon. Afternoon Shirley, children and I went to train (Napier) to see Mr & Mrs Walker off to Wgtn. Called at Hunters and Stewarts on way home. April. 10 Tues. Pictures in evening 'Les Miserables'. K.E.D. (Kate) came over to stay with us for a few days. Plenty of mushrooms after the rain. April. 13 Fri. Went with Mrs Stewart and Ken Shaw to Porirua in Shaw's car to bring Willie Stewart home. Willie looking well and in good fettle. Arrived Levin 2.30 pm. Called at Dr. Hunters who had short talk with Willie. Afternoon tea at Stewarts and walked round with Willie. April. 14 Sat. Harold McLeavey took Mr Tully and me to Otaki to attend funeral of Mrs O.P. Lynch wife of our Provincial President F.U. Service in church and graveside R.C. Met Jim Prendeville. Lunch at Tullys. Home 3.30 pm. Odd jobs. April. 15 Sun. Afternoon took Katie and family to see Mr & Mrs Jack at Weraroa. Saw through Power House. Feeling rather seedy. April. 16 Mon. Rough and showery. Feeling father off colour so went back to bed for the day. Could not go to the Choral Farewell to Mr Magee. April. 20 Fri. F. R. Wright and I put in day canvassing for Farmers' Union. Poor results - only two new members. April. 22 Sun. Shirley stayed in bed all day trying to get rid of her cold. April. 25 Wed. Wet morning. Anzac Day. Took Shirley to Private Hospital Levin where Mr MacKenzie extracted 13 teeth. Came through operation well but face very sore. I spent an hour talking to Willie S. and afterwards rode around terrace. Paraded with R.S.A. at Anzac Service. Over 60 on parade. April. 27 Fri. Afternoon took Anne and Bill down to see Shirley - also did some shopping. Shirley's face still very swollen. Evening at Stewarts. Ted Peter, Willie and I played cards. April. 28 Sat. Town in afternoon. Shirley still in bed but improving. Football Hui Mai 3 Weraroa 0. April. 29 Sun. At home in morning. Afternoon rehearsal for sacred concert. Evening sat with Shirley for an hour then went to sacred concert by Choral society De Luxe theatre. Fair attendance and good performance. April. 30 Mon. Heavy wind from east with rain. Brought Shirley home from hospital in afternoon. Very boisterous night. Electric light failed so had to make use of candles. Shirley's gums began to bleed about 10 pm. and continued for nearly 2 hours. When on Mr Mackenzie's advice we stopped bleeding with pad of cloth. Swelling greatly reduced. May. 1 Tues. Feeling rather seedy so did not go out - slept most of morning. Town in afternoon to do shopping. May. 4 Fri. Took Ted, Truman and Tully to political speech by Hon. D. A. McLeod. Fair ttendance. May. 5 Sat. Manawatu Provincial F.U. meeting at Levin. Dominion Sec. Colonel Pow up from Wgtn. re collection of subs. through order system. Big discussion up till 3.30 pm. but satisfactory conclusion. Annual Meeting 0.P. Lynch re-elected President. I was put on as one of the four vice-presidents. Col. Pow went with me to see football Wanderers 19 Weraroa 6. Interesting game. I took Col. Pow to station. May. 6 Sun. Showery. At home. Mrs Hitchcock and Mamie came with Mrs Kibblewhite to see us. May. 8 Tues. Ted and I went to town in evening to practice of Operatic Soc. 'Country Girl' Denis in charge. Lois went into hospital this morning to have tonsils removed. Operation successful - brought her home about 4 pm. May. 12 Sat. Went to Levin in afternoon to do shopping. Shirley went to golf. I went to football. Weraraa II 14 Hui Mai II 9. May. 13 Sun. Went to church taking Lois, Anne and Bill who all behaved well. Afternoon we went to Tullys. May. 17 Thurs. Evening Fancy dress ball for children in aid of 'Farmers Baby' Lois as 'Rose', Anne as 'Daffodil' and I as 'Pierrott'. Mother and Ted also ran. Big crowd and great success. I secured prize for best boy over 15. May. 22 Tues. Evening I went to Dramatic society - am to take part in dialogue. May. 28 Mon. Choral Society put on 'Mauritania' in evening. Fair crowd and successful rendering. Principals Hubert Carter and Naomi Whalley both of whom were excellent. May. 29 Tues. Went to town with Shirley assisted to prepared for 'Baby Carnival' in aid of Women's Rest Room. Went to Carnival in evening. Mannequin parade by Henriette, very good. worked marionettes. Took 21/-. May. 30 Wed. Left Levin 7.45 am. with H. McLeavey and W. Falloon in latter's car for Feilding to attend Inter-Provincial Conference. Arrived 9 am. Mr 0.P. Lynch presided. I was selected on Committee to draft remits. Pretty full day. Address by W.J. Polson. Evening 'Smoke-Oh' but I did not go as I stayed home with Kellows. Talked till after midnight. May. 31 Thurs. All day at Conference. Left Feilding 4.35 pm. for home. Stoppage at Himitangi. Ran out of benzine. Levin 7 pm. Tea at Carnival. Results - sports baby 115 pounds, farmers 98 pounds, Miss Scott came to take Elsie's place. Manakau 67 pounds, plunkett 63 pounds. Nearly 700 pounds in hand. June. 3 Sun. Took Miss Scott to town and brought Mr & Miss Hitchcock back for dinner. Walked round in afternoon. June. 5 Tues. Dramatic Society in evening. June. 6 Wed. Afternoon Mr K.W. Dalrymple called to see me and we afterwards went over to Stewarts and had a look round. R.S.A. annual meeting in evening - re-elected on executive. June. 7 Thurs. Dramatic Society in evening also Charlie Chaplin. June. 8 Fri. I went to Levin on business at bank. Sawtell had to put fresh tyre on front wheel and changed position of tail light. Trueman returned mare. Lecture by Mr Fairdon - 'Intermediate credits to Farmer's Union.' Fair attendance. Good meeting. June. 9 Sat. Town in afternoon. Reserved seats for train for Monday. June. 11 Mon. to 30 Sat. On holiday. Train to Auckland. Stayed with Cecil Beckett and Ella at Takapuna. Went to Westfield Sale with Cecil and Mr Metcalfe. Bridge party at Mrs Metcalf es in evening. I won gent's prize. Stayed night with Mrs Bagnall.

Saturday went by train to Whangarei. Heavy rain, stayed Collins.

Sunday afternoon taxi to Wairua Falls very fine.

Monday about town. Returned Auckland.

Tuesday zoo etc. Train to Rotorua.

Friday Stayed Kia Ora, very comfortable. Met Bob Lilburne (late Rata) and wife. Also Mr & Mrs Reid and Mrs Rough. Went Waimanga trip - 6 lakes trip, Whaka and Chinemutu. Tuesday Wairakei, lovely baths. Met American Mr Anderson also 3 Englandies. Misses Houghton (one instructress in eurythmics) Gave demonstration in sitting room. Wednesday Motor to Napier via Taupo. Rough country and very poor. Rail to Hastings, stayed with Laurie and Nell. Arch and wife and Ethel Daniell also staying there. Home Saturday. Found children and everyone well under Mr & Mrs Tully's careful management.

July. 1 Sun. Drove to Ohau in afternoon to see Mrs H. McLeavey. July. 5 Thurs. George arrived home from Waikato for a short holiday. Looks well. 13 stone 4 lbs. Evening Shirley took Mr & Mrs Tully and George to picture 'Beau Deste.' July. 6 Fri. Archie and Mrs Daniell arrived for afternoon tea on their way to Wgtn. from Waikato. Left shortly after 4 pm. July. 7 Sat. Monthly meeting of Provincial Exec. F.U. In town most of day. July. 13 Sun. Fine. At home. Cliff and Tui came over for tea and evening. July. 10 Tues. Shirley and I went to Levin re electric stove. July. 11 Wed. Meeting in evening here of Rural Intermediate Credits Committee. Vincent, Kilsby, Gimblett, Wright, Denton and G.W. Wilson (Public Trust) Apologies from Broadbent and Adkin. Decided to call further meeting to test feeling of farmers regarding need for scheme. July. 13 Fri. I went to meeting of building committee of Plunket and Rest Room. July. 14 Sat. Shirley went to Shannon to golf match and won her round. July. 15 Sun. Cold. Mr C. Pyke up to lunch. July. 20 Fri. Steve Bevan brought up Moffatt 4 plate electric stove and commenced to install it Could not complete today. July. 23 Sun. Stewart family over to dinner and afternoon. July. 24 Tues Shirley went to Feilding to play golf match. I took her to town. Left Bill and Dick at Biss'. Back to town to meet Enid at Auck. Express. Enid home on 3 weeks holiday. Looking well. Miss S. returned after being a couple of days in Dannevirke. July. 25 Wed. Went to Annual Meeting Dairy Co. Big crowd. I talked Rural Intermediate Credit. Afterwards went to football when Horowhenua beat Bush by 13-8 after a good game. Went to dance at Oxford Tea Rooms. July. 27 Fri. I killed hoggett for mutton in afternoon. Afterwards paid visit to dentist MacKenzie. Tunney beat Heeney for heavyweight championship of world. July. 29 Sun. Fine. Drove to Levin after dinner. Ran out of benzine so had to ask Ernest Vickers to bring us up a tin which he did. Visited May Jones who is nursing her husband Horace who is seriously ill - not expected to recover. Afterwards went to Hitchcocks and brought Mamie and her brother Ted and friend home. Walked up low hill and then to top. Mr H. walked back to Levin. I drove the others back. Horace died at midnight. July. 31 Tues. Afternoon I went to funeral of Horace Jones (Overton) acted as bearer. Dramatic Soc. in evening. Aug. 1 Wed. Evening went to Shannon to Mrs Crouquests with Harold and Mrs McLeavey, Nan and Sophie to rehearse. Aug. 4 Sat. Went to Palmerston Nth to Farmers' Union Meeting - by train with Harold McLeavey, Kent Jensen. Afternoon Jensen and I went to football North v. South Minor Unions. Fast game and interesting. North 39 South 6. Saw Dave Porteous. Evening took Shirley to pictures. Aug. 5 Sun. Spent afternoon and evening at De Luxe rehearsing. Aug. 7 Tues. In town most of the day. Afternoon meeting of farmers to discuss advisability of forming an association under Intermediate Rural Credits Act. Not much enthusiasm. Mr Faire and Mr G.W. Wilson present. Eventually about 10 signed up as nucleus of association. Aug. 8 Wed. Evening Shirley, Enid and I went to Ohau for farewell to Alf McLeavey who is going to Te Horo. Enid and I sang duet successful turnout. Aug. 9 Thurs. Fine. Worked in stumping paddock but took things easily. Evening the Levin Amateurs put on the 'Country Girl' at the De Luxe. Show went very well. I took part of Sir Joseph Verity and got on fairly well. Mr Crouquest of Shannon took part of Barry and was excellent. Took 65 pounds. After the show the Society had supper at Dr Thompsons. Very fine supper too. Aug. 10 Fri. Feeling pretty tired so did not do much heavy work. Round ewes. Lambs coming well. Second performance of 'Country Girl' and more successful than last night. Small dance afterwards. Aug. 11 Sat. Fine. All day in town preparing for dance which Shirley and I are giving for Enid. Had a successful function. About 100 people there and all had a very good time. Stopped at midnight and cleaned place up. Aug. 12 Sun. Up late. Took car to Otaki to catch Sunday train to Wgtn. Shirley, Mamie, Enid & Norman & I. Enid on her way back to Christchurch. Tea at Mamies and church afterwards. Aug. 17 Fri. Bishop and Proctor came up to take out old range and re-construct fireplace. Also re-built dining room fireplace. George Thompson and man came up after dinner to couple up piping on new heater. Had job to remove stove. Aug. 18 Sat. Jack returned home for holidays. Aug. 21 Tues. Levin in afternoon. Meeting of Rest Room Committee - accepted tender of A.E. Standen. 96 pounds for building. Children's fancy dress ball in evening. Took Lois and Anne. Aug. 22 Wed. Evening Shirley and I went with Or Hunter to Palmerston Nth to see Grand Opera 'Rigoletto' Nurses from Private Hospital also went. Enjoyed opera very much. Home after midnight. Aug. 23 Thurs. Fine. Shirley and I decided to go to Wanganui to attend wedding of Mary Denton to Bill Powell. Left Levin 10 to 10. Arrived Wanganui 12.10 pm. after good run. Edith and Kate, Laurie and Nell there, also Ernest and Mrs Close. Afternoon tea at hall. Big crowd - everyone in good form. Had to make short speech. Laurie and Nell, Shirley and I stayed at 'Braeburn' (15/- per day) Very nice. Aug. 24 Fri. Heavy showers. Left Wanganui 11 o'clock bringing Edith and Kate with us. Marton for lunch. Called to see Beryl Biss. Called at Kellows in Feilding. Home via Shannon. Left Edith at Ron Laws and Kate at Cheslyn Rise. After tea back into town to golf picture. Aug. 25 Sat. Meeting Farmer's Union in afternoon. Small meeting. Football Wgtn. 28 Horowhenua 26 after interesting game. Aug. 26 Sun. Mr Tully up to dinner. Miss Hitchcock, Miss Will and Greba Wallace up in afternoon. Aug. 28 Tues. Evening Miss Scott and I went to the pictures. Shirley to Mrs Crisps. Aug. 31 Fri. Evening Shirley and I took Una Davis to Golf Ball. De Luxe Theatre. Very good function - about 250 there. Had good evening. Home 2 am. Sept. 1 Sat. Had bad night - tooth giving me trouble. Face rather swollen. Up late. Went to Levin to meeting Provincial Executive. Received vote of thanks for efforts re forming association under Rural Intermediate Credits Act. Felt rather 'frowsy'. Went to S. MacKenzie about tooth but he could do nothing on account of swelling. Walked home and went to bed. Shirley playing golf Otaki and won her game. Sept. 2 Sun. Not up till dinner time. Watty Booth wife and family and Mrs Knight (aunt) paid us a visit in afternoon. Watty just had teeth out so not looking A1. Feeling seedy myself. Sept. 3 Mon. Did not get up all day. Face very swollen and painful. Had to take plenty of asprins. John went round sheep and found everything alright. Sept. 4 Tues. In bed till 11 am. Face down a bit. John round ewes. Ted odd jobs. In stayed in all day. Sept. 8 Sat. Went to town in afternoon and in evening Shirley and I went with Mr & Mrs Smaill to Palmerston Nth to Grand Opera 'Carmen' Good performance. 10 of us in party. Very rough night. Thunderstorm and heavy rain. Back to Levin 1 am. George's 21st birthday today. Sent 'wire' of congratulations. Sept. 9 Sun. Fine but cold. John round sheep. I did not get up till late. Afternoon brought Mamie and Miss D. Hitchcock up to see us. Mr & Mrs C. Wilson also here. Sept. 10 Mon. Afternoon Kellow family turned up to see us unexpectedly. Took John back to Feilding with them. John stupidly delayed them. Mr & Mrs Hawke, Mrs McAlley up to see Shirley. Evening Choral Society put on 'Cavellaria Rusticana' to a poor house. Tenor soloist Mr Herbert Carter unfortunately laid up so Mr Denis had to take the part which he did successfully. Fair performance - quite as good as we could expect. Kingsford Smith and party left Sydney for Christchurch by aeroplane about 7.30 pm. Sept. 11 Tues. Kingsford Smith and party arrived Christchurch 9.30 am. after passing over Wgtn. 7.30 am. Only 14 hour trip. Went to Levin sale and to dentist and Shirley to golf. Sept. 14 Fri. Majorie Denton over from Foxton for weekend. Sept. 16 Sun. Took Majorie back to Foxton in afternoon. Sept. 21 Fri. 4.30 pm. I went to D.S. MacKenzie to have 2 teeth drawn. He used novacaine which was very effective as I felt nothing. Bed early. Sept. 22 Sat. Wet. Went to Wgtn. by early train. Lunch with Perc. Afterwards to Athletic Park to see N.S.W. v. Maoris. Stood in grandstand. Heavy rain spoilt game which was worth seeing. Maoris won 9-8. G. Nepia kicked 3 penalty goals. N.S.W. 2 tries, one converted and should have won on the play. Evening Savage Club with Percy. Auckland hapu in charge. Both football teams present. Good turnout. Sept. 23 Sun. Fine. Church with Edith in morning. Afternoon Robs Auntie Ralphs and P.N.D. to tea and evening. Sept. 24 Mon. Edith and I gathered up sundry ironmongery and two ladders for me to bring home. Came by Auckland 4 pm. Stayed at Gran Hitchcocks until Shirley arrived and we stayed to tea. I went to Choral Soc. Not feeling up to much. Good practice (first) of 'Creation'. Sept. 25 Tues. Intended to go to sale but feeling mouldy so lay down all afternoon. Shirley and I went to dinner with Mr & Mrs C.G. Wilson - cards in evening. Sept. 28 Fri. Took Shirley to hospital to have rest of teeth drawn. Sept. 29 Sat. Tom and Amy Ward staying weekend at Grand. Sept. 30 Sun.

Ward came up to have a walk round place.

Oct. 3 Wed. Ted and I went to C.D. Farm to sale of Freisans and Red Polls. Good sale. Red Poll bull up to 65 gns. Expected to see John there with Ag. High School Boys from Feilding but he was kept at school as he was rather seedy. Oct. 4 Thurs. Took Miss Scott down to train in afternoon - County by-election owing to withdraw' of A. McLeavey. Gimblett elected 233, W. Falloon 143, Colghoun 90 or thereabouts. Oct. 5 Fri. Evening we went to Shannon to evening given by Mrs C. Crouquest. Very enjoyable. Took Vickers children with us. Home 2 am. Oct. 6 Sat. Afternoon I went to town. Shirley to golf. I went to Shop Day for Choral Society. Afterwards to opening of Bowling Club. Many invitations to join. Went to MacKenzie and had tooth drawn (one with gold crown and put on 20 years ago) Big fire in Levin - Ince's shop burnt out, also Hamilton & Henderson, and Miss ............................................. Oct.7 Sun. Mr & Mrs Jack, Miss Murray and Una came up to see us in afternoon. Billie (Jack) and I walked round low hill. Nurse Norris came up to tea. Oct. 8 Mon. After dinner peculiar haziness appeared and it was so dark that we had to use lights in the house. Heavy rain came on about 2.30 pm. Oct. 10 Wed. Gordon Vickers who has just returned from Australia and Dave Read came up and took away gelding to break in for me. Drove him to saleyards to handle him. Oct. 13 Sat. Kingsford Smith and party started on return Journey to Sydney in 'Southern Cross' 4.55 am. Oct. 14 Sun. Shirley and I took 3 children to church after which we drove to Tararua Rd. to look at my young gelding which was injured on Wednesday in course of handling by Gordon Vickers and Dave Read. Found him looking pretty bad. Dragging hind leg. Oct. 17 Wed. Bridge at night at Mrs Puranis Oct. 19 Fri. Miss Scott went to Dannevirke for short holiday. Oct. 20 Sat. Went to Levin in morning. Big crowd in town on account of bargain sale of drapery by Ince whose shop was burnt out lately. Went to see lame horse - slightly improved I thought but still very bad. Afternoon had a loan of Trueman's team and plowed (ploughed). Oct. 21 Sun. Billy Jack and brother-in-law up hill for walk. Went to Turton's in afternoon. Ted over at Trueman's fixing up bike. Oct. 22 Mon. Labour Day. Took Mr W.H. Pink down to see young lame horse and he said it's stifle had slipped. Suggested trying to put it back. Oct. 23 Tues. Fine and very hot. Plowing. Choral in evening. Mr and Mrs Guy Evans over to see Shirley. Ordered 6ft. set of Whakatane harrows from A. & W. Oct. 28 Sun. Beautiful day. Went to see Maxwell (Bartholomew) in afternoon and then on to Ohau where we got a dozen ducks (Indian Runner) from Mr Benning and brought them home. Oct. 31 Wed. Miss Hitchcock and Miss Armstrong up to tea. Nov. 6 Tues. I went to Levin Sale, also looked at young horse - not doing much good. Church of England Bazaar in evening. Ran shooting gallery. Nov. 7 Wed. Went to meeting of Provincial Executive F.U. in Levin. Not much business. Home 1.30 pm. Political meeting in evening. Address by Rt. Hon. J.G. Coates De Luxe Theatre packed - good reception. Nov. 8 Thurs. Anne's birthday (5 years) Verity girls and Joyce Trueman over to tea. Nov. 10 Sat. Town in afternoon and reunion of R.S.A. in evening. General Sec. (Harrison) also Col. Hall and Major Watson up from Wgtn. Also concert party. Very good programme. Home just after midnight. Nov. 11 Sun. Went down to see lame horse and brought Miss Scott home. Nov. 12 Mon. Helen Beckett arrived. Nov. 13 Tues. First meeting of Levin Rural Intermediate Credit Assoc. R.G. Wall, R.V. Brown, S.A. Broadbent, R.J. Law elected directors. Evening speech by Masters on behalf of United Party. Nov. 14 Wed. Election Day. Government (Coates) defeated. Lost big lot of seats. United Party scored heavily and Labour gained seats. Spent evening in town, very orderly - wireless programme. Linklater and Feild elected. Nov. 16 Fri. Mrs Overton Jones came to stay with us for a few days. Nov. 20 Tues. Evening Mrs McAlley and Cyril, Mr & Mrs Smaill up to play cards. Nov. 23 Fri. Evening with Lois and Anne to Miss William's pantomime 'Jack and the Beanstalk' Packed house and good show. Nov. 24 Sat. Dorothy Jones and Margaret up for weekend. Nov. 25 Sun. Fine and v. hot. Mr & Mrs W. Jack and family also Mr & Mrs Tully up in afternoon. Nov. 26 Mon. Choral Soc. in evening, farewell to C. Shaw. Thunderstorm in evening with very heavy rain which continued until 10 pm. Dec. 1 Sat. Shirley and I went to Palmerston Nth. I went to Provincial Farmers Union meeting and Shirley roamed round town. Went up with Eric McLeavey and came back by 4.50 pm. train as Harold went on to FeiIding. Heavy rain came on about 5 pm. and continued most of the night. Shirley and I went to tea and evening at Mrs Marsh's. Mamie and Gran Hitchcock also there. Played cards. Dec. 2 Sun. Fine. Shirley and I went to church in morning talking two girls and Bill. Round farm in afternoon. Dec. 4 Tues. Evening concert by inmates of Blind Institute, Auckland. Shirley and I went and afterwards to supper given by Mr & Mrs D.S. MacKenzie. Dec. 6 Thurs. I helped Shirley paint and paper in spare room with Muresco -very successful. Dec.7 Fri. Fine and hot. Went to Wgtn. by first train to go to wool sale. Called at Murray Roberts wool store and saw wool opened up. Looked well - ewes fleece showing little old seed. Murray Roberts catalogue came on first. Bidding not particularly animated. My hogget wool (4 bales) sold at 17 and a quarter pence (reserve 17) and ewe's wool at 16 and a half pence (reserve 16) Not as good a price as I had hoped. Afternoon tea at Fern Hill. Alice, Dora, Trix and Molly and Mrs...?. Edith and Kate there. Home by 5.40 pm. train. Dec. 8 Sat. Ted worked all day with Shirley helping her to spring clean the house. Painted walls in spare room with 'muresco' which made quite a good job. Ted did odd jobs round house. Dec. 9 Sun. Wet most of the day. Helped Shirley in the house all day cleaning up. Dec. 10 Mon. I borrowed Trueman's hack to take Mr D. Hair's cattle (25 steers) to his place up Ohau to dehorn them. Mr Hair is lending them to the A. & P. Assoc. for steer riding contest at next show. Mr FalIoon took Mr Shepherd up in his car. Skilton did the dehorning and made fairly good job. Had lunch with Mr & Mrs Skilton and Skilton rode down together. Heavy thunderstorm came on and I got wet through. Dec. 11 Tues. Evening heavy rain came on. Choral Soc. gave "The Creation" in the Town Hall. About 28 visitors from Wgtn. Choral Soc. assisted. Very poor audience on account of bad weather. Went off fairly well. Dec. 12 Wed. Wet in morning. Shirley and I went to Feilding to see John at school. Big fete on to raise funds for swimming baths. Wet afternoon but big crowd there. Called at Kellows. Saw George Gower in Levin. Dec. 13 Thurs. Showery. Ted and I put in whole day at showgrounds helping to erect cattle yards for steer riding competition. About 10 of us there and we made very good progress. Dec. 14 Fri. Fine. I helped Shirley all day spring clean back bedroom. 'Muresco' ceiling. Ceiling cream walls blue stained floor, etc. Dec. 15 Sat. I went to station to meet John who returned home from Feilding Aar. High School. He gained highest aggregate marks for agriculture and won silver cup presented by Feilding A & P Assoc. was first in english, economics and first equal in wool classing and animal husbandry. Dec. 16 Sun. Fine. At home all day. Mr & Mrs Jack, and Mamie came up to see us in evening. Called at Maxwells. Dec. 17 Mon. Ted spent all day at Pedersons making hay and John went to Rochels helping ensilage. General meeting of Choral Soc. Lost 10 pounds on concert. Debit balance now about 24 pounds. Dec. 18 Tues. Fine, John spent half a day at rochels and came home with 30/-, one pound for labour and 10/- for horse and dray. Went to the Levin Sale. Afterwards to break up ceremony of infant school. Very good entertainment by children. Lois sang with 3 others - first attempt very fair. Dec.19 Wed. Fine, Ted in garden. John and I varnished hood and curtains of car and cleaned it up. Mr Raine of Eclipse Garage came up with new cheverolet sedan which he eventually offered to me for 200 pounds with my own Chev. in. The new Chev. to be fitted with rear and front bumpers and rear carrier. Made no decisions. Dec. 20 Thurs. Afternoon Shirley and I went to town to the opening of the Rest Rooms and to do shopping. Mrs Hobson officially opened rooms in presence of crowd of sympathisers. Dec. 21 Fri. Afternoon Shirley and I and John took children to town, also Joyce Trueman to see Father Xmas. Had a pretty strenuous time. I went to funeral of Bob McAllister. Afterwards went to see Von Hartitch re Chev. Further promise of kick plates and mats. Dec. 22 Sat. Fine. Cut hedges round house - cleaned up generally. Boys cut lawns. Shirley and I went to town for further shopping. Sawtell's agent took us for a run in an Essex sedan but we practically decided on Chev. My birthday. Dec. 23 Sun. Afternoon Shirley and I and children went with Mr Raine for a run to Otaki Beach in the Chev. sedan. Shirley drove down and I drove back and we both liked the car very much. Dec. 24 Mon. Afternoon, Shirley and I went to town and completed buying the Cheverolet Sedan. I paid 190 pounds and put in the old Chev. at a value of 100 pounds. The new sedan is fitted with back and front bumpers, carrier, kick plates. Brought new car home, leaving old car in town. Paid cheque in full 201 pounds - 190 pounds, plus insurance, registration and number plate. Dec. 25 Tues. Christmas Day. Beautiful day. Early festivities 5.30 am. Afterwards all grown ups went to Church of England and communion. After dinner Mr & Mrs Tully and Beryl also Stuart MacKenzie and family came. Dec. 27 Thurs. Shirley in town and brought Nora home to assist in house. Dec. 28 Fri. Decided to go to Paraparaumu for the day. Good run down. Went to Stewarts's house for lunch. Willie at work but came home in afternoon. We all had swim in afternoon. Left about 6.30 pm. Home about 8 pm. Boys milked in dark. Dec. 29 Sat. Shirley took John to train to go to Wanganui to stay with Harold. Dec. 30 Sun. Up late. Went to see Mr & Mrs Jack in afternoon. Brought Mrs Hitchcock and Mrs Gibson up to tea.

17 Jan.

Opening Baths in afternoon 22 Jan.

Fine but cold. George & I went to baths. George's first dip and "shaped" very well. Afternoon all drove to Lake. Adkins in evening 30 Jan.

Wirth's Circus in evening - first class performance 31 Jan.

Beautiful day. Horowhenua Show. We all went. Big crowd. Successful turnout. 3 Feb.

Enid's party. Hugh, Doris, Cliff & Viv & Kate to tea. 6 Feb.

Drove in dray to Levin with children. Brought home pony on trial for
Enid. Pony not very satisfactory. Hard in mouth and stubborn 17 Feb. Evening rode to Levin. Express Co. horse collided with phaeton & broke
shaft. Chamberlain agreed to repair damage. 18 Feb. Miss Bowles C children went to Church. I went in evening. (Rev. Dawson). Afternoon we drove to cemetery very disappointed with the way that the headstone had been reset. Went to Gray Phillips & complained & he inspected same & promised to get me some satisfaction 25 Feb. (Sunday). After dinner, Enid, George & I drove in motor with Billy Wilson, Hughie & Doris, to Foxton to see Kellows. Most enjoyable. Took about 30 to 40 minutes to get over. Jack very much out of sorts - cutting teeth 28 Feb.

Massey lost "no confidence" motion by casting vote of speaker. Robertson
broke pledge & voted for Ward. 5 March Miss Bowles & I drove to Levin with George & Jack to private hospital where they underwent operation of circumcision, Jack undergoing operation in full & George only partially. Both boys behaved splendidly & are getting on nicely tonight. 17 March Drove to Levin. George & I went to the Arcadia, Miss Bowles & Jack went to Mathesons. Afternoon we went for a motor ride to Buller's Lake. Called at cemetery & found work still untouched. Church in evening. 27 March (Wednesday). Afternoon went to "Swimming Carnival". Good sport but rather cold. I competed in neatest "header" but was unplaced. Rode to Harris's in evening. Received a letter from Mother saying that Rob's boy Ken, died on Monday. Poor little fellow, it is a mercy he is at rest. 31 March

Beautiful day - Miss Bowles & children went to Church of England - Jack's
First appearance at Church 4 April

I went to Wellington by 4.45 train. Miss Bowles & Enid stayed at home for a few days & then went to Mrs Edwards to stay. George stayed at Adkins. 5 April

Good Friday to Thursday 11th. Spent in Wellington on holiday. Good
weather, a quiet enjoyable time.
My dear Jen's birthday today - 11th 19 April Harris of Palmerston North completed work at cemetery so I went down &
passed it. Well finished except rail. 21 April

(Sunday) Memorial Service in connection with the loss of the Atlantic Liner, Titanic wrecked in mid-ocean 1500 lives lost. Collided with iceberg. 9 May Miss Bowles had nasty accident. Fell on back steps & hurt her back. She "turned in" after tea. 11 May Miss Bowles staying at Mathesons, Enid at McKenzies & George at Adkins. 12 May (Sunday) Will, Amy, Mr & Mrs Arthur James & self motored to Wanganui. Started 9.30, arrived there 12.30. Will, Amy & I stayed at Frank's. Motored out in afternoon after seeing Studio. Church 13 May Left next morning, good run, 3 hours. Miss Bowles no better. Doctor ordered rest so had to arrange with Mrs Hooper to look after Jack in the meanwhile. 21 May Mother came down from Hastings stayed at "Cheslyn Rise". I met her & drove her home 25 May Drove Mother round here in the morning C she looked at children's clothes. Afternoon we drove to see Miss Bowles who is still very unwell & unable to work. Decided that she should take another week off. Drove to cemetery and home at dark. 27 May Beautiful day. Mother arranged a trip to Foxton by motor to see Gilbert in Mounted Territorial Camp. Party consisted of Mother, Annie, Clare, George, self and W.H. Wilson in charge. Dinner at Hotel (Whytes) drove to camp and then to parade ground where we watched them drill and shoot — saw Gilbert. Mother called on Mrs James Barber & I went to Kellows to afternoon tea. Home at dark. Suffering for the last day or two from bad back — a good deal worse tonight. 3 June Took Mother & Annie to station to catch first train to Wellington. Brought Miss Bowles & Enid home on return journey. Miss Bowies a good deal better. 4 June

Brought George home from Adkin's. 8 June Jack walked a few steps alone for the first time. All very excited. 22 June

Jack's 1st birthday. Willie Stewart came over to get a lesson in crutching so I brought in a cut of young ewes & he had a try at it. 28 June Mr Adkin & I went to Palmerston Winter Show. Rather interesting & enjoyable day. July 14 Sunday. Jack not well. Bad cold. Stayed at home in morning. Enid, George and I went over to Adkins. Miss Bowles stayed at home with Jack. We got home about 8 o'clock. Jack had fair night. July 15 Adkin over in evening to talk about Gil leaving. July 17 Went to Annual Meeting Levin Dairy Co. to support 6% dividend which was carried. Govt Accident Insurance paid out £5/8/7 on account of accident to Miss Bowles. July 22 (Monday) Adkins to tea and to meeting of Reform Party. Crutchings fetched 6 and 3/4d. per lb. at Wellington Aug. 06 Went to Levin to see expert Mr Stratford prune fruit trees. Useful knowledge. Aug. 13 Willie Stewart over in evening. Baby boy born to Mrs Stewart at hospital. Aug. 16 (Friday) After sale stayed in town to tea & went to YMCA Ladies night. Lambs coming very quickly 6 pairs of twins. Getting milk from Bechers 2 quarts a day. Aug. 17 Afternoon went to football, Horowhenua Juniors v Wellington Juniors, won by Horowhenua 6-3. Good game & fast. Stewarts to tea. Aug. 19 Met Edith by mail train from Wanganui Aug. 22 Edith returned to town by "Napier mail". Gen. Booth died. Aug. 26 (Monday) Enid made her first start at school today. Miss Bowles took her down to private school run by Miss Clark. Vivian is to stay with us for a week so that she can ride down with Enid until she gets used to the horse. Aug. 28 Afternoon went to Levin to see Horowhenua v Wairarapa (football) Horo. 8 Wair. 11. Biked to McLeaveys to tea & evening. Sept.02 (Monday) Enid rode to school alone today. I drove in trap intending to bring home plaeton, but shaft was not mended. Miss Bowles drove down in afternoon but was not able to bring it back either. Chamberlain paid 5/- towards repairs. Sept.08

George's 5th birthday. Sept.16

Murray Roberts agent called in motor car Sept.26 Beautiful day decided to dock. Gil came over early & assisted with yards. Total of black face lambs to date 291 from 255 ewes or 114% over whole mob. Still some ewes to lamb. George went to school with Enid today for the first time on the occasion of the breaking up for term holidays. Sept.29 (Sunday) Very cold day. Snow on hills. Enid, George & I went to Adkins to dinner the occasion being Annie & WG's silver wedding. Home to tea. Sept.30 Afternoon drove Miss Bowles and children to station. Miss Bowles, George & Jack are going to Wellington for short holiday. Enid staying at Mrs F. Jones. Oct. 03 Inspector Fleming of Stock Department came to look at 2 cows. Condemned the big white store cow & Becher shot her & we took the hide off. He placed a value of £2 on the cow for compensation. I burnt the carcase. Oct. 04 Afternoon drove to Levin - took cowhide to Hitchings Hankins for auction. Weighed 601bs. gross. Went to see Enid at Mrs F.W. Jones' & stayed to tea. Evening attended meeting swimming club - elected vice-captain. Supper at Jones. Oct. 08 Went up river with Atkins to help them dock. Ewes poor, lambs fair good % (112%). Oct. 16 Fine. Cleaned up house. Met Miss Bowles & children at 1pm. train. Dinner at Mrs F.W. Jones. Home about 5pm. Miss Bowles & children better for change. Oct. 26 Afternoon it commenced to rain & blow from the south. After about an hour there was a heavy fall of snow, the whole place being white. Must have been fully an inch. Cold night. Oct. 29 Miss Bowles away last night & part of today doctoring Mrs Stewart's baby. Oct. 31 Afternoon sprayed peach, trees. Took out rimu. Evening Church of England concert & supper at Stuart Mackenzies. Nov. 12 Evening I went to Adkins to meeting of ratepayers to discuss rating umimproved value. Nov. 17 (Sunday) Drove to Levin & brought back Mr & Mrs F.W. Jones & child to stay for a day or two. Walked over toAdkins in afternoon. Nov. 20 Evening Mr E Mrs A. Simpson & Mr & Mrs F.W. Jones here; played Euchre. Nov. 24 (Sunday) Miss Bowles roused me up at 8.30 to say there was a dog among the sheep. Followed the dog home. Found he belonged to Walker of McDonald Rd. We destroyed the dog in Koputaroa. 2 lambs dead. Sheep must have been run around for about 2 or 3 hours & looked dirty and tired. Nov. 29

Evening Adkin, Les & I went to farewell Smoke Concert to Harold Abraham. Big crowd there & affair went off well. Dec. 08 (Sunday) Miss Bowles took all the children to the Wesleyan Church & children's anniversary. I biked to Arcadia & in the afternoon Billy & his children, Enid, George & I motored to Foxton to see Kellows & new infant. Back at 6pm to Arcadia - tea and Church. Dec. 11 Fine. Adkin & I drove to Manakau to Ransfield's sale. Very hot drive There was a big fire at the Arcadia last night - a lot of damage done. Dec. 18

Jack very unwell - apparently mumps. Dec. 19 Express Co. took away 13 bales wool to Murray Roberts, Wellington. Dec. 21 Miss Bowles not well. Jack a little better. Dec. 23

Made arrangements with neighbours with regards to animals during my trip to Wellington. Marjorie Adkin drove us to the station. Enid George & I went to Wellington. Miss Bowles & Jack stayed in Levin with W.H. Wilson.

Dec. 24 to January 4, we spent on Holiday in Wellington. Had a good time.

Tues 19.

Sirley and I left Levin by 8.20 train to Wellington. Picked up Harold Lancaster at station and we travelled together. Big crowd of soldiers also on train. Arrived Wellington. 11.45 and had lunch at Kirkcaldies with Edith, Miss Beaver, Miss Geesen, and Percy. Did some shopping and then walked down to the Maunganui and went aboard to look at our berths, No 88. Harold and I together. Back to station where all the soldiers paraded and marched 12 deep to the Cenotaph and then on to Parliament Buildings where we were officially farevvelled by Lord Galway (Gov-General), M. Savage (Premier) and T W Hislop, Mayor of Wellington. Big crowd of people and we had great reception.

After tea at Railway Station, we walked down to the boat, accompanied by Shirley, Edith and Miss Beaver. Went aboard about 7.30 and got good position near stern of ship. Tremendous crowd of people assembled at wharf to see us off, estimated at about 10,000. Hundreds of streamers from well-wishers to boat. I managed to pick Cliff Adkin in the crowd and he brought Tui and Miss Magill along to join the party.

Maunganui moved out sharp at 8 pm. and soon after the Awatea left Queen's Wharf and steamed past us as far as Massey Monument, where she stopped until we caught up. The Monowai with rest of soldiers on board moved out 8.30. Also the S.I. ]South Island] ferry boats, so that we made a grand sight. There were thousands of motor-cars on the waterfront, and they followed round the coastline to the Heads. It was a sight which I shall never forget.

Awatea soon steamed out of sight. H. and I turned in about an hour later, and after some time our two cabin mates arrived - Watts of Pelorus Sound and J [illegible] from same locality, who both proved to be very good chaps and we were a happy family. Had fair night's sleep in spite of a lot of noise and singing. The sea was beautifully calm and the boat rode well.

Wed 20.

A beautiful morning. Up 6 a.m. and had a good salt hotwater bath and shave. Feeling very fit and all the chaps very merry. Issue of reading matter from Sydney, also itinerary of tour. Played deck games and won a couple of sweeps. Met Monty Hartwell of 2nd WMR and we had good talk Also met McQueen, station master in Levin some years ago. Enjoyable day resting and reading and horse races and concert in evening. All arrangements working-. smoothly. Dining in rear cabin, excellent food. Turned in 10-30 and slept well.

Thurs 21.

Up 6 a.m., bathed and shaved. Meeting quite a lot of chaps, Inky Morgan, Jimmy Nash and others. Had lots of fun at games on deck. Bought official tie and identification booklet, which entitles us to freedom of city at Sydney. Sent Radiogram to Shirley saying we are OK. Tom Harris and Jim Horne, both of Levin, also travelling Maunganui in very flash cabin.

Fri 22.

Usual doings on deck during day. Won sweep in deck game. Evening orderly room trial. Two good lawyers, O.C. Gambrill Magistrate Captain of officers of ship up before the beak for breaking traffic rules and failing to signal that he intended to turn at an intersection. Bed early to be ready for tomorrow.

Sat 23.

Beautiful day. Up early so as to see entrance to Sydney Harbour. Bathed and shaved about 6 a.m. Had great reception as we steamed up towards the bridge - all the tugs and ferryboats greeting us with whistling. Mast of Maunganui well clear of decking of bridge. On arrival at ship's berth we disembarked and fell in on the wharf. Dr Hunter and GD Hamilton met us there, and marched together up to the Cenotaph in Martin Place. Very large crowds lined the route and we had a fine [welcome] from them. Harold Lancaster and Jack Watts and I stuck together throughout our stay in Sydney. We managed to get near the Cenotaph so had splendid view. Short service held before we marched through city up George Street, up past Town Hall to the Trocadero, where a luncheon and reception was tendered to us by NSW Govmt. Speeches by Governor General, Mayor of Sydney, ex-Premier Hughes. Response by Bill Perry and General Russell on our behalf.

Harold, Jack and I then took tram (which was free to us during stay) to Sydney Showground. Tremendous place and beautiful buildings, some of which we walked through. Afterwards we watched sheepdog trials, buckjumping, steer riding, etc. etc. Back into town for a feed - very tough steak - picked up coats from ship and went back to see final night. Tremendous crowd of people (1,003,000 having attended during the two weeks it was on), very large stands packed. Finals in all events. Buckjumping, bull-dosing [sic], steer riding and many humorous competitions. "Jasbo" and his pony "Shirley Temple" kept the crowd in roars of laughter. Many ladies from all over Australia competed in horse events and are great riders. Back to ship 11 o'clock very tired,

Sun 24.

Beautiful day. Up early, bath and shave. Trip arranged to Blue Mountains. "Katomba". 6 motor buses. Left 8.30, passed through city for miles. Afterwards reached more open country, but poor quality and very little stock Passed Homebush - stock market for Sydney. Tremendous area. Crossed over Nepean River and then began to climb hills. Very good road and splendid views. Stopped at Spring [gap] for refreshment and then on to Katomba, arriving 11.30. Went to RSA Club for reception, and then marched to dining hall. Very nice lunch. Given souvenirs, also got autographs of two VC's.

After lunch further drive to see sights of Katomba, beautiful scenery. Very precipitous. Went down tramway to coal mine, 1300 feet, almost a precipice -down and back in 3 minutes. Further on we looked over very big drop - crowds of people there. Met Percy Brown, and he and Harold and I had photo taken. Whole thing finished in under five minutes. Back to RSA - further refreshments, left for Sydney 4 Am. Back to Sydney and after a feed went to bed 10 p.m.

Mon 25. Anzac Day.

Fine. After turning in 10 p.m. had short sleep - wakened and looked at watch and thought five past three. As Dawn Service at Cenotaph was timed for 4 a.m. decided to get up and bath and shave, which I did. Just before commencing to dress looked at my watch and found time only half past eleven. Had mistaken time in half-light. Went back to bed till 3 a.m. and at 3.30 fell in for Dawn Parade.

Marched to Martin Place 12 abreast and took up position near Cenotaph 4 a.m. We were lucky in being quite close to the Memorial. The streets were absolutely packed with spectators, and the service was most impressive and was taken by Baptist minister. Quite a number of people fainted, and the ambulance had a busy time. After the service we broke off and made our way back to the boat and had a rest At 8.30 we reformed at the wharf and marched 12 abreast to McQuarrie Street, where we had to wait some hours before the procession began. This was the biggest collection of Diggers since the war. Hunter and" Hammy" again joined us and we commenced this unsurpassed march, past the Cenotaph and by a long route to the Domain where the service was held. We were very tired indeed when we arrived there, and lay on the ground resting. Fortunately the weather, which threatened, remained fine and the service was successfully concluded. Rev Cruikshank of Dunedin was in charge, and conducted it excellently.

Lots of photos were taken, and most of the Levin boys could be seen plainly. We showed up prominently in the official one. Re photos: I had more taken, by myself, on Maunganui last Sat by representatives of the Sydney Sun, and it came out with name attached in the Sunday paper. From the Domain we marched back to the Trocadero, where we had a luncheon and reception by Sydney branch NZRSA, for which we paid 61-. With such a terrific crowd it was surprising that there was not more confusion.

After this parade, which was our last, we went about at our own pleasure. Harold, Jack and I then took ferryboat to Manly (all ferry trips were also free) and had afternoon tea and a look round. Left by bus for St Leonards and afterwards changed over to tram and rode back to North Sydney, where we left the tram to walk across the bridge. This walk was well worth taking as we got a good view of this huge structure (one of the best of its kind in the world). We walked to the top of one of the Pylons where we signed the visitors' book and got several souvenirs. The view of Sydney from the top was magnificent, the lay of the country adapting itself for the purpose. From here we trammed it into Wynyard underground station where we had excellent feed in railway luncheon room. This underground station is of tremendous extent and accommodates both trams and trains, and has facilities for everything, shops of all descriptions, escalators etc. etc. After feed we went to Town Hall to grand Anzac concert, which was very good. We greatly [enjoyed] Patriotic tunes played by splendid brass band, the audience, which filled the hall, joining in. As we had had a very long and tiring day, we decided to leave for the boat at half- time. Got to bed half past ten, dead beat.

Tues 26.

Fine. Up early and caught train (Harold, Jack, Vickers and I) for Richmond to visit Hawksbury College. Went by electric tram to Paramatta - changed to rail to Richmond. Buggy from College met us and took us down to the farm. Met Mr Southey (principal), who was unfortunately very deaf, and he handed us over to some members of the staff who took us round. After lunch we walked round farm and inspected horses, dairy stock, dairy and poultry. Afternoon tea, and train back to Sydney, arriving 5.45.

Tea at Wynyard and then to Showground to see Military Tattoo. Very fine display. Massed bands - mock aerial attack - troopships convoy on way to Egypt etc. etc. Weather turned very cold, and as we had no coats we had to leave early, much to our regret. Back to boat very tired.

Wed 27.

Fine. Spent morning in the city buying souvenirs etc, and had enjoyable time. Afternoon we took ferry to the Zoo, which is easily the best I have seen. The aquarium is the star exhibit, and one could spend hours here with great interest. The main exhibit is the shark pool containing 2 large specimens and numerous other kinds of fish. There were some beautifully coloured small fish, also octopus etc. etc. Milk shake, and then back to Sydney by tram.

Tea at Wynyard, and then to Luna Park. Very brilliant but much like others. Men with huge dummy heads wandering about and trying to entertain. Very tired so left about ten for bed.

Thurs 28

Fine. Last day in Sydney. Jack and I decided to have a fly over Sydney, Harold declining. We were taxied to Mascot and back and had fly for 10/-. Jack and I and - went up in one plane, and it was my first experience and very thrilling. One of the trainees had a forced landing close by, and we had a good view of it - no one hurt as far as we knew. We rose to a good height and flew right over Sydney as far as the Bridge, completing a large circle. I am pleased I went up, and I think I am now satisfied to leave it alone.

After lunch Harold, Jack and I took tour in trams to Coogee and then on to Bondi Beach. Coogee bathing protected by huge steel nets to keep sharks out of area. Bondi much larger. Afternoon tea in pavilion. Got into conversation with two very nice ladies who were interested in us and our trip. They eventually invited us to motor with them as far as Rosebay where they lived. We gladly accepted, and they took us for a splendid drive round coast to North Head.

We stopped here to look at places of interest - the anchor of boat wrecked many years ago in the Gap. The captain mistook the opening to Sydney harbour and ran into the cliffs. We had our photographs taken with the ladies here. They were sisters-in-law, the Mrs Miller, having married two brothers, the elder husband being employed in the Union SS Co- The photographer was not able to finish prints satisfactorily while we waited, so he contracted to send them to Mrs Miller, who will post them on to us. These ladies were very hospitable - took us to their home and introduced us to Mr Miller (senior), and afterwards set us on our way back to Sydney. Tea at Wynyard, and back to the boat 7.15.

Big crowd on wharf and great send off. NZ boys, particularly the last of them, were in great form and caused much amusement. Left wharf at 6.30, escorted by Police Band well out into harbour. Soon into bed, tired out.

1 Jan. Beautiful day spending holiday at beach in Prouse's cottage. Adkins family & W.R. Wilson family visited us. Had a bathe & enjoyable day. Dora stayed with us. 2, Jan.


Beach poor weather 7 Jan. Beach. Burns & I went rabbit shooting in pm. also Craig boys (2) I used Adkin's gun I got 6 rabbits Burns 4. 8 Jan. Better weather. Jen bad neuralgia. Fishing in morning. 9 Jan. Beautiful day. Bathing & fishing in morning. Afternoon rabbiting with Burns. I shot 9 Burns 6. 10 Jan.(Sun) Beautiful day. Line fihsing with Walter Clark in morning. No luck. Wilsons out. Bathing in afternoon. 11 Jan.


Splendid day. On beach most of the time bathing etc. Evening final flutter. Progressive euchre party consisting of Clarks (2) Craigs (3) Stuckeys (2) Burns (3) Dentons (2) Very good fun. Broke up at midnight 12.Jan.(Tues) Very fine. Packed up after dinner. Left beach for home about 4.30pm. Reached home 6.30pm. Pope's son "Sid" Burbinsons boy came back to Weraroa in cart. 20 Jan.(Wed) Fine. Went to Levin Sale. Miss Florrie Hitchings married her cousin. Fashionable turnout. 22 Jan. Very nice day we drove to Hokio taking Hughie with us. Had a very enjoyable day — not too hot. Children paddled & had a great time. I bathed in pool. Left at 5pm. Home at 6pm 24 Jan.(Sun) Fine. All drove to Levin in morning. Jen & Enid went to E. Church, I took George, W.H. Wilson & Hughie for a drive. Afternoon Will & Amy & Co. drove up 7 Feb. Very hot. Did not go out in the morning. Jen stayed in bed very tired. Afternoon drove to Ohau to see Walkleys who are soon leaving to go to Wairarapa. Home 7.45pm 9 Feb. Visit from Drapery agents — bought 4 suit lengths at £4-5-0 10 Feb.(Wed) Beautiful day. Horowhenua A & P Assn Show. Arrived at ground about noon — lunch — visited circus & monkey show, very fair. Dog bit me on leg. Big crowd. Very enjoyable day. Home 6.30 13 Feb.(Sat) Leslie Lancaster & France started on a journey across the Tararuas into Wairarapa weather most unsuitable


19 Feb.(Fri) Levin Sale. Adkin bought Simcox's fm ewes at 11/6 very fair sheep. Enid & George to Craigs for party. I bought 132 two tooth ewes at 12/— in A & W's yards very fair line. I came home with sheep and returned to Levin about 8pm. 21 Feb.(Sun) Les back from tour to Wairarapa 22 Feb. Felt very seedy did not do much work 24 Feb.


Very out of sorts. Stomach upset. Took dose of castor oil 25 Feb. Up late, but felt better 26 Feb. Fine, worked in stumping paddock cutting rushes etc. Gimblett came C bought 25 cull lambs at 4/6. I delivered them. In evening we drove to Walkleys Chau to Surprise Party. Very pleasant evening. Hugely enjoyed by juveniles in early hours of morning. We stayed there all night & drove home next morning 27 Feb. Beautiful day. Reached home at dinnertime. Walkley's little girl Connie came home with us. On our way home we took George to the barbers and had his hair cut for the first time. He stood it well and looks first rate. 3 March Afternoon took Jen to visit dentist. Evening Jen went with Stewarts to see musicians (Russian boys) 6 Mar (Sat) Afternoon went to Butts to. shoot for team of civilians against rifle corps. not much good 22 at 200 yds, 7 at 500 yds out of possible of 60. Levin in evening. 15 Mar.(Mon) Went to Levin about 5 o'clock to see "Kilties" band. Procession from Weraroa. Huge Scotchman over 7ft high. Listened to a little music & then came home about 8.30 17 March Took tweed to Frechling to make up. 19th went to Frechling to be fitted for new suit 26 March Took Jen & Family to Levin. Farewell to Miss Bowen who is transferred to Aramoho. Jen sang — rather nervous. Enjoyable evening. Home 11.45 Children good. 27 Mar.(Sat) Town in evening. Got new suit from Frechling 1 April Heavy rain in afternoon. Could not take Jen to Hudson's afternoon tea but we drove to Ohau in evening to Hockey Club social and had a real good time. Euchre & sit down supper & dancing till 2.30am. I drove home & got to bed at 4am. Jen and babies stayed at Walkleys 2 April


Jen spent day at Mrs Wm Clarks where she met Mrs Witt of Wellington 3 April


Wet — Jen very unwell so did not get up till late 4 Apl (Sun) Fine. Jen rather better. Did not go out. Afternoon Miss Berg came to bid us "goodbye" Mr & Mrs Wm Clark, Mrs Will & friend paid us a visit. 11 April


Very wet. Easter Sunday, Jan's birthday. Could not go out all day. Adkins intended to come over but could not 12 April Beautiful day — We & Adkins drove to Manawatu River at the Foxton Bridge & had a very enjoyable drive. Looked over some of the rich river flats which seem to be excellent quality but most of the paddocIss we saw were smothered with tall fescue which had simply taken possession. Saw some very good fat cattle. We arrived home about 6 o'clock & Adkins came to tea and evening 4 May J.R. McDonald's clearing sale in Dalgety's yards. I set off home with my 158 sheep just after 4.30pm. Les helping me over the railway line a most unfortunate accident occured as the sheep reached the line at the same time as the mail train went over the crossing. The result was most disastrous as I lost in all 38 ewes. Most of the carcasses were mutilated horriby. I arranged with T.A.B. Hudson to have the carcasses removed & skins taken off by W. Ryder & A. Newman. I then came on with remnants of mob. assisted by Mr Wilson (Manager for Hithcings) & Mr Adkin. I reached home about 7pm thoroughly disgusted 10 May Received a notice from Railway pointing out my liability re sheep getting on Railway & requesting me to prevent a rescurrence of offence. 24 May Fine. Clifford came over in morning so sent word by him to Dr Kennedy to come up & have a look at me. He arrived about 5 o'clock & after examination said that he would have to lance the abcess which had formed in crutch. Left it till morning when he will administer gas. Passed very bad night 25 May Doctor arrived about 10 o'clock & put me under gas & lanced the abcess very quickly - great relief. I performed considerably while under gas. Stayed in bed all day 29 May Commenced to put up arch for roses to climb over on front path 1 June Spent whole day on archway not altogether satisfactory but fair job 2 June We all drove to Levin in morning & got paint (white) for arch. Met May Harvey who is up to recite at Eng. Church concert. She is engaged to Mr Keedwell (chemist) 4 June Evening Mr & Mrs Walter Clark & Miss May Harvey came to tea & evening & Mr Keedwell arrived about 9.30. Had a very enjoyable evening. Euchre and music 10 June Enid alarmed us rather by putting small button in her ear. We extracted it by means of glue on end of a piece of cloth 12 June(Sat) Levin in afternoon Football Levin 14 pts. Hui Mai 26pts. good game 13 June Drove to Arcadia to dinner & stayed till 7 o'clock W.H. Wilson has just bought J. Cole's section of 50 ac. at £40 24 June - July 5 Holiday in Wellington 24th Capping at Victoria College. Miss Daniell staying at Fern Hill 25th "about town" Smoke Concert of College Rifles with N.H. Denton. Enjoyable evening 26th Kellows to dinner Athletic Park with "Alb" 27th Church. Walked to Northland with Laurie 28th Kellows to tea whole family. Alb took Jen to Town Hall complimentary to Alf Hill. 29th Went to Newtown Zoo in morning. Very interesting indeed & we much enjoyed visit. Down town in afternoon 30 Down town in morning. Afternoon Laurie & I mended fence between Denton's & Gibb's barbed wire. Jen went WMCA Bazaar. Evening Jen & I went to pictures - Napoleon - pretty tough
1st July Jen took children to see Mrs Collins. I went for a bike ride round Queens Drive. Evening, we took Edie to see "Miss Hook of Holland" Most enjoyable opera & we had a real good laugh
2nd Jen went to see Grace Ralph, I took bike ride to Karori and also visited Harveys
3rd Town in morning. Met H. Ziman Dinner at Kellows. Athletic Park with Alb. Poneke 14 0.Boys 5; Athletic 6 Oriental 5. West's pictures in evening "Drink"
4th July Church. Took Enid for a walk to Queen's Wharf to see boats. Rained very heavily
5th July Came home by mid-day train.
9th July Jen & Children returned from town. Bradley drove them home. 12 July Ingram came to see me & contracted to cut 4ft rata at 10/- per cord. George very unwell. Could not keep his food down. Very. limp & fretful. Seemed to improve towards evening. We think that his back teeth are coming through. 17 July Afternoon we drove to Levin to see football Awarua (Taihape) 12 Horowhenua 11. I speculated in some fruit trees from Baker's Koputaroa, sold by T.A.B. Hudson. Well grown but require pruning 26 July


Evening we all went to Adkin's to tea to celebrate Leslie's 21st Birthday. Enjoyable evening. Home 10.30-11pm. 28 July In afternoon I drove in dray to Swainson e Bevan's sale of nursery stock. Bought 3 apples, 3 pears, 2 peaches, 2 nectarines & a few specimens for shrubbery 31 July Afternoon went to Hudson & Marriott's sale of fruit trees implements etc. Bought about a dozen apples & 1 plum (Burbank). Also bought aged horse belonged to Baker £3-15-0 including cover very cheap I should say. Also hayfork & slasher. George & Enid both have colds. 1 August Enid & George both had a bad day & we had an anxious time with them. At night a storm from S.E. arose - very heavy wind with rain. Had a very bad night. Enid very bad, delirious at times consequently we got little rest 2 August Up late. Children still bad - in bed till dinner time & then by fire in front room. Enid a little better in evening, but George's cold was very bad - Hard dry & whistling. Mother had bad night 8 Aug.(Sun) Beautiful day. Drove to Arcadia to dinner. Went for a drive with Will as far as Ohau River. He has a very fast trotter. Home 4.30. Jen very much out of sorts. Hysterical in evening. Nerves very much strained. Had fair night. 9 August Jen & children walked to Stewarts & drove to meet her but as she was still feeling nervous, I drove her to Levin for medicine about 5.30. However Amy invited her to stay down for a few days to regain her strength & we gladly accepted. I returned home alone in rain & after tea took down some clothes for Jen & children. I stayed with them at Arcadia all night 10 August Batching - Jen at Arcadia feeling better 11 August Rode to Levin to see Jen who is still not very well. Will & Amy went to Boating Club Ball. I rode home midnight 12 August Jen & I went to dance in evening. Jen not very well so did not stay long. After taking her to Arcadia I returned to hall & saw programme through - about 3am. dead tired. Stayed at Arcadia 17 August Drove to Levin to receive tenders for stumping. The lowest tender was £20 by W.A. O'Donnell, Arlidge £22-10-0 Johnson £30. Ingram & Pink £32 Salmons £47. I accepted lowest. Evening Jen Amy & I went to dance "Scarlet Pimpernel" Very fair turnout. Jen & I went home at 12 o'clock then I went back for Amy. Jen did not feel at all well but had a fair night 18 August Dull. Did a little business in Levin in morning. After dinner we drove to Doctor Kennedy's & Jen went to get advice. He prescribed for her and we procured medicine and came home in heavy rain. 19 August Jen feeling rather better 21st Aug. Jen not at all well so could not go away from house 22nd Aug Jen did not get up till late but felt a little better 23 August


Afternoon I commenced to put in posts for fence in shrubbery. Jen had visitors Miss Sutherland, Mrs Marriot Miss Mrs & Miss Prouse 24th August Jen much better 25th Aug. Jen drove for first time alone as far as Adkins. I went over at 5 o'clock and came home with her. 26 Aug. Beautiful day. Jen drove Annie out to Levin in morning. Evening we drove to Levin to "Ladies Evening" YMCA. Enjoyable entertainment. Clare in tableau. Left George at Arcadia & Enid at Adkins. Home about 11pm. 1 Sept.


Wettest day of season. Never remember the grass being so low. Sheep alright. Creeks very high - paddocks very wet. 2 Sept. We all drove to Levin before tea to the Arcadia and afterwards went to Misses Stuckey & McDonald's dance which proved most enjoyable. Les & Clare were there also. Jen & youngsters stayed at Arcadia & I rode home to bed at 4am. 8 Sept. Afternoon Jimmy (McIntyre?) Enid, Clifford & Vivian helped me cart away macracapas. George's birthday. Evening party of ourselves, Adkins, Miss Sedcole & W. Prouse. 11 Sept. Opening of Tennis season 14 Sept.


Agent for Booth McDonald up to see me re "plow". Will Stewart agrees to buy harrows etc. & I am to buy the plow & we will exchange 24 Sept. Beautiful day. Gil came over to breakfast afterwards we yarded 2 tooth ewes & lambs which was tough work. Jen & children rendered great assistance George enjoying the fun. I docked 136 lambs out of 220 ewes yarded. We left about 6 undocked & some ewes with young lambs in the paddock. 25 Sept. (Saturday). Afternoon went to Levin C played in football match Levin v. Wanderers (old timers). First game for me for about 6 yrs. Got on fairly well. Game very fast & interesting to watch. Wanderers won by 14 to 11 an even go. Had a good hot bath at Arcadia. Felt a bit sore. 26 Sept.


Enid and 1 went to Church of England. Rev. Compton. Mr & Mrs D.S. McKenzie came up on a visit in afternoon & stayed to tea. 5 Oct.


Gapper forced to close shop - big loss 7 Oct. Afternoon odd jobs round house while Jen drove to Levin. Evening had a party of friends, Mr & Mrs McLeavey, Eva & Molly McDonalds 4 Bartholomews 3 Stuckeys 4 Craigs 2 Adkins 3 Jamieson Kiss Devonshire. Very enjoyable evening games & competitions. Broke up at 12.30 14 Oct. Spent some of the day cutting up pukatea posts. Beautiful log - will cut about 45 first class posts. 20 Oct. I went to see J.R. McDonald's land sale. Century Hall crowded with people. The front sections (5 acres) sold well £53 to £40 to £30. Adkin bought 140 acres adjacent to the terrace at £22-10-0 26 Oct.


Jen drove to Ohau & farewell to Mrs Feist at McLeaveys. Annie Adkin in Wellington had operation progressing favourably 29 Oct. Went to Levin sale bought 15 2yr steers. Les helped me bring them home. Afternoon tea with Vickers. Annie underwent very serious operation at Wellington - still very ill - but improving. 31st Annie better 22 Nov. Evening Clare & Miss Mayne drove over & stayed with Jen while I went with Les, Wil & Reg to see Prof. Driver the conjurer & exposer of Bailey the medium. First class entertainment. Very clever. 23 Nov. Evening went to tea meeting connection with Provincial Conference (Methodist) Good crowd & enjoyable. George had huge meal. 24 Nov.


Afternoon went to Garden Party at J. Prouse's beautiful afternoon & successful function. Had put in good morning's plowing. 1 Dec.


Horticultural Show opened by Lady Plunket. Jen drove down & left phaeton at Holdaways to be varnished. Using Holdaway's trap meanwhile 11-13 Dec. Murray Moses & Dick dagqing & shearing. Billy also 14 Dec. Jen had afternoon "At Home" for Miss McIntyre & it passed off very successfully about 30 ladies present 16 Dec.


Finished shearing about 3.30pa. Murray shore 320 Moses 46 Billy 250 H.D. 1 Total 604 (13 bales) 21 Dec. Fine & very hot. Up early & mustered all ewes with lambs. Mr Vickers of Meat Export came at lam and drafted out 50 fat lambs at 9/- and 3 fat ewes at 9/6. Lowest price I ever sold fat lambs. 22 Dec.


My birthday. Adkins family came over after tea & we spent enjoyable evening. Presented me with present of a book. 27 Dec. Beautiful day. Drove to Horowhenua Lake. Had lunch & then went over the other side in motor launch - very enjoyable. Burns' joined us on return trip & we had afternoon tea & then to Arcadia for tea. Alb Kellow returned to Foxton by 8 o'clock coach & we drove home immediately afterwards 30 Dec. Fine. Packed up & drove to station in Bradley's Coach to catch 11.50 train to Wanganui. Big crowd of passengers. Fairly enjoyable journey. Frank C family met us & we all went to his house where he kindly invited us to stay during our holiday 31 Dec. Dull. Jen & I & George went down town & stayed down for lunch etc. Rode round in trams. Heavy rain commenced but eased off about 5 o'clock when we got home dry

1 Jan. Fine. Went up river in motor launch owned by Mr Walker a friend of Franks. Had a most enjoyable picnic about 2 miles above Kennedy's. Some delay on return journey owing to engine getting out of gear. Croquet at Walkers until dusk. Home late 3 Jan. Hung about Wanganui all day. Offering my wool in Wellington today so waited to hear result. Received wire from Murray Roberts C Co. saying that the wool was passed in at 9 C 3/4d. I decided to accept same being only ¼d. under reserve 4 Jan.

Beautiful day. Jen, George & I took trip up river to Pipiriki. Left Enid at Frank's with girls. Had splendid trip up. Magnificent sceneryRiver very low so the boat had to be pulled up most of the rapids on steel wire. Reached Pipiriki about 5pm. Met son of Rev. Jenkins, Ohau, on boat. He recommended us to patronise a boarding house run by one Smith as being moderate clean & homely. After putting in about 1½ hrs of misery there, we decided to flit to the boat house where we got very comfortable quarters 5 Jan. Fine. Up at 4.30am & left Pipiriki for Wanganui at 5am. Morning dull but turned out beautiful day. Reached Wanganui 12 noon after a very good run down. Splendid trip all through except perhaps the "homely" hash house 6 Jan. Jen George & I in town for lunch. In afternoon Frank & I went in launch to see Sculling Handicaps on river. Good turn out. Three heats. First won by R. Arnst (world champion) second by W. Webb (ex champion) & third by Hagney (Australia) 7 Jan.

Went to Castlecliff - wind very unpleasant but improved towards evening. In evening Jan Frank & I went to see Haywards pictures - rather poor. 8 Jan. Final of sculling Arnst 1st Hagney 2nd Webb 3rd 10 Jan.

Came home by express train. Bradley drove us up 22 Jan. Anniversary Day. Fine & Hot. Met Laurie & Miss Daniells at 11.50 train & brought them home to stay a day or two. Afternoon drove to Horowhenua Lake & had a trip round in motor launch. Very enjoyable 23 Jan. Very hot. Afternoon drove Laurie & Miss Daniells up river Ohau to see water scheme. Laurie, Gil & I had beautiful swim in deep hole at junction Nakahiki. Home 6.30. Adkin over in evening 24 Jan.

Jan drove Laurie & Nell to catch morning train to town 26 Jan. Decided to destroy poor old "Echo" today as he is getting very feeble. He has been a faithful old dog & splendid worker 28 Jan. After a hurried tea I mustered 2 tooth ewes & lambs. Margy & Clifford Adkin & Amy Denton who had been over to tea for Enid's birthday helped me draft & fill up the shed. Enid had birthday party. Hudsons, Wilsons Adkins Dentons & Billy came up for Doris. 29 Jan. Enid not at all well. Very feverish & vomitting. Dosed with castor oil but threw it all up. Eased off in evening. Went to town for cough cure & magnesia. 30 Jan.

Enid still groggy though better 3 Feb. Jen & I loaded wool on dray (3 bales) & I carted to station & consigned to Murray Roberts & Co. Net Alb. Hallow at station as he was en route to Foxton to take charge of Levin & Co. Agency there. He missed coach so came home on load of timber (gate). Hung round rest of the day & took him down to meet coach at 7.45pm 8 Feb. Drove to Adkins in evening and brought round Amy Denton to stay with us. Discussed Rob's purchase of site of old store with W.G.A. 9 Feb. Horowhenua Show Day. Wet but cleared by 10 o'clock. We all drove down about noon & had a very enjoyable day. Show very successful - large entries. 14 Feb. Fine & hot. Sigglekow came & we commenced to enlarge scullery. Knocked old building to pieces & made a good start with new. 16 Feb.

Sigglekow continued carpentering. Put up frame & commenced rusticating. Smith - Bricklayer man came & commenced to build chimney. Got in foundation & moved out stove. He is doing the job for £7-5-0 17 Feb. Sigglekow & bricklayer on job - latter closed up fireplace in dining room & nearly finished chimney. Sigglekow finished rustic steps & door. I went to Mill to get odd timber also oil & red lead from Walker for priming. Saw by "Dominion" that I received 12d. per lb. for lambs wool in Wellington sales 22 Feb.

Sigglekow came & we finished lining kitchen. Walker came & commenced painting & paperhanging - estimated £3-10-0 - £4 for his work 23 Feb. Jen sang at "Young Ladies Soiree" 25 Feb.

Lord Kitchener visiting Wellington Cadets parade in bad weather 5 March Sigglekow came up & I paid him off £8-2-0 12 March Met Rob Denton at Mail train and drove him home to stay with us. Spent evening at tricks 13 March Afternoon we all drove to town & Rob & I went over State Farm. George stung by bee 16 March Were to take Rob & Lil (Ralph) to beach but went to Lake instead as weather doubtful. Good fun. Kid's races, kite flying etc. 28 March (Easter Monday). Cliff & Vivian staying with us while Mr A.&Clare in Wellington. All dorve to beach. Children had good bathe. Very enjoyable day. Afternoon tea Mrs W.M. Clark. Les, Gil & Miss Benett of Karori spent evening with us. 10 April (Sunday) Dull. Drove to Manakau in afternoon to see Mr & Mrs Vickers. Pleasant afternoon but caught in heavy shower of rain coming home 11 April Jen's birthday. Escaped prisoner Powelka causing great excitement in Palmerston North. Has been at large for about a fortnight & has defied the police. Nearly captured last night but escaped afar shooting policeman very seriously 1 May (Sunday) Fine. We all went to Church (Rev. Jones). George appeared in new grey suit & looked well & hearty. Afternoon drove to cemetery & afterwards to Adkins to tea 7 May News arrived of the death of King Edward VII of England of bronchitis suddenly 18 May Jen still feeling very unwell on account of her boil (on top lip) & general debility. Annie Adkin returned from Wellington after being laid up for 9 mths first by operation then by very severe burn on leg caused by hot water bottle (boiling water) being left on the bare flesh after the operation. Still not able to walk so had to be carried on stretcher 19 May

Enid, George & I drove to Levin for stores etc. Halley's comet passed across sun at 1.30pm today. Will not be seen again for 75 or 80 years 24 May Eclipse of moon. Saw Halley's comet - not very bright 3 June Kings Birthday. Otaki Races at Levin Course. Went to Wellington by 3.50 train taking Enid with me. Jen & George stayed at Arcadia. Jack Devine travelled to town with me. Arrived "Fern Hill" about 7 o'clock. Enid rather homesick, tired but behaved well 4 June Took Enid for a walk down town & on wharf. Saw Town Hall etc. Afternoon left Enid at Carrie's & went to Athletic Park to see football match Petone 18 Vic. College 5. Very fair game. 5 June Church in morning. Rob, Enid & I went to children's Sunday School which was very interesting & instructive. Enid enjoyed it very much. Stayed at home with Mother in evening. She is improving in health slowly 6 June Enid & I came home by train reaching Levin at 11.50a.. Had dinner at the Arcadia. Home about 1.30 Found everything alright 12 June Sunday. Drove to Adkins in afternoon to see Annie who is progressing only slowly 16 June Rode to Levin & met Kellow & Staples (his assistant) & we drove to Experimental Farm to look at horse that Mr Drysdale was offering for sale. Kellow reckoned horse too heavy for his purpose so will notbuy. I rode horse & found him not a bad hack. 4 July After dinner, George, Enid & I all turned into bed all suffering from colds. Jen drove to Levin. George very feverish and generally out of sorts. He seemed to get worse about 8 o'clock so I decided to walk to Adkins & Gil kindly rode to Levin for Dr Kennedy who arrivedabout 9.30 & prescribed for George. His temperature was over 102 & he was suffering from bronchitis. We all had rather a poor night. Johnson defeated Jefferies in 15 rounds for champion boxer of the world.

5 July

6 July
7 July

George Enid & I stayed in bed. Gil brought medicine
from Keedwell for George who began to mend. Enid
pretty lively - self so-so. Influenza

8 July

Got up for a short time but felt groggy so lay about mostly. Jen drove to town for supplies & had narrow escape at railway line from being caught by train. Gil did odd jobs for Jennie

9 July

All feeling a lot better

2 Aug.

Had word that Father is not very well which would probably prevent Edie from visiting us

6 Aug.

About 10.30 we received telegram from Wellington saying that Father was seriously ill so I prepared to go to town to see him. Jen & children went to Adkins & Mr Adkin & I went to Wellington by Napier Express 3.50pm.
Arrived home to find Father in great pain suffering from severe internal haemorrhage, Drs Martin & Herbert attending him C 2 nurses one day C one night. Saw Father for a little while but he could not speak much on account of severe pain. Frank also arrived from Wanganui

7 Aug.

Father slightly easier throughout day but the great loss of blood is tending to weaken him. Church in morning & Central Mission in evening

8 Aug.

Doctor had rather bad news about Father & consequently all very upset - However Dr Cahill was called in to consult & they changed the treatment which seems to have soothing effect. Dad seemed very bright & I talked with him for quite a quarter of an hour & I was astonished that his memory was so clear. Frank & I visited Rob (in bed with sciatica) & I walked home with Auntie Ralph

9 Aug.

I returned home by first train. Jen met me with phaeton & we went straight home. Went to Adkins after dinner & had talk with Annie Adkin returned home by late train & I rode over to hear latest news which was not very good as father had spent a very bad night & seemed to be weaker.

10 Aug. Drove to Levin & spoke through telephone to "Fern Hill" & learned that Father had been successfully operated upon & the doctors had removed a large tumour from his bladder. He was reported as doing as well as possible. We all felt immensely relieved & eagerly await fresh news. 11 Aug. About 10 o'clock we were very shocked at receiving a wire from home telling us that Father had passed away at midnight. I, at once, made arrangements for going to town. Jen & children again stayed at Adkins. Went to town by 3.50 train arriving at home to find all the family there very much upset. I learned that Father had gone through the operation well, his pulse being, if anything, stronger, but at 9 o'clock he took a turn for the worse & passed quietly away at 10 sins, to 12 o'clock. Mother, Rob, Will, Frank, Laurie, Edie & Kate were with him to the last. His last message to us was "Keep the name bright" which has always been his pride. He appeared to have passed away without much pain as his face was beautifully calm & peaceful. I felt very sorry that I had not stayed instead of coming back to Levin. Mother was very brave throughout the great blow but she was very weak & helpless at bedtime. Adkin came down by late train 11 o'clock 12 Aug.

Funeral took place about 2pm. Just previous to this all the family gathered round the coffin & Mother & Frank offered up a prayer for Help & Guidance. I shall never forget the last look we had of Father; he looked so beautiful & angelic - just as if he was sleeping peacefully. We all kissed him i last farewell. Mother placed a small bunch of primroses in his clasped hands as her last gift. Father had died a fortnight from the day he took to his bed which was his 77th birthday. We can scarcely realise what a great loss we have sustained but we can rejoice that he is now free from all his pain. He has indeed set us a grand pattern.

There was a short service in the dining room when Revs. Isill, Serpill & Dr Gibb officiated. We five sons with Mr Adkin acted as bearers. There was a large number of friends who came to pay their last respects to Dear old Dad but as he had expressed a wish for a•private interment the number was limited to old friends. It was most pathetic to see how affected his old friends were when they went to see his for the last time - how they cried. Father was buried in the Sydney Street cemetery beside Florrie. The plot had been bought for 37yrs. P.S. Even our old washer woman Mrs Matthews came up to see Father before he was buried. Also Nannie Richards & Auntie James & many others. There must have been over 200 letters & telegrams received - all expressing sympathy for Mother & full of admiration & respect for Father.

13 Aug. Replied to letters of sympathy. Walked to town with Laurie in evening 14 Aug. After breakfast Will, Rob, Frank, Laurie & I walked to the cemetery with flowers for Father's grave 15 Aug.

Put in whole day at the shop, trying to make myself useful without much success. Could not do much but had to be there, in case I was needed. 16 Aug.

Came home by first train. Jen could not meet me on account of wet day so I walked to Adkins where we had dinner 20 Aug. In the morning I took Jennie & George to the station to catch the early train for Wellington. Enid staying at Willie Stewart's I stayed there at night 5 Sept. Up early went home & cleaned up house. Jennie & George came back by 11.50 train & we all drove to Stewart's where we stayed for dinner Home about 2.30pm. I went round sheep. Very pleased to be home again. 8 Sept.

George's 3rd birthday. Adkins came round to tea & evening. 13 Sept.

Mrs McIntyre & two sisters up to see Jen & we drove them home, packing nine people in phaeton 15 Sept. Beautiful day. Helped Adkins dock. Jen & children visited Adkins in afternoon. On our way home Vivian & George rode on "Jack" but he bucked them of allowing to Vivian riding on his back behind the saddle "Jack" objected & fired them off. They were fortunately not much hurt. 16 Sept.

Went to Levin sale. Fat sheep were booming Fat wethers £l, £1/1/0 (Adkins) up to 23/- 22 Oct. I went by train to Wellington to see Mother. Mrs Gardener stayed with Jen. 23 Oct. (Sunday) Laurie & I walked to the cemetery before breakfast & tidied up the grave a little. Mother & I walked to Church Mother's first appearance on foot. Spent rest of the day with Mother talking etc. did not go out again. 24 Oct.

Came home by first train. Jen & Mrs Gardener met me. Jen not very well, slight sickness 14 Nov. About 4 o'clock Frank drove over with Leslie Adkin to see us & they stayed to tea. Mother came up from town with Frank and is staying at Adkins. Jen very bad after they left 15 Nov.

Afternoon George & I drove to Levin. Called to see Mother at Adkins on the way home. Drove home in heavy rain. 16 Nov. Drove with Enid to Adkins & brought Mother home with me. Walked round with Mother & did a little mowing. Drove her back to Adkins about Rpm. Jen feeling a lot better 18 Nov. J.W. Gibson opening new store. Went to afternoon tea 21 Nov. Jen & I drove to station with Mother who went to Wellington by 4.45pm train. 29 Nov. Rode to Levin to hear result of wool sale. Wired Murray Roberts & Co. for price realized & got reply that wool was passed in at 9¼d the reserve being 10d. However I decided to accept 91d & Mr Winchester moved to that effect. 7 Dec.

Finished shearing Total number 522. Ten bales of fleece wool & one of bellies & pieces. 23 Dec. Packed up ready to go to Wellington caught 3.40pm train. Hughie travelled with us. I had to take him to his uncles before going to "Fern Hill" Met Alice Denton. 24 Dec.

(Saturday) Christmas Eve. Took children down town to see shops. Tremendous crowd of youngsters. Had good fun. 25 Dec.

Went to Church Taranaki St. in morning & to St Johns in evening with Edith to hear Rev. Gibbs Afternoon Will, Frank & I went to cemetery. 26 Dec. George & I went to Oriental Bay to Ross' to get "Morrie" & to take him to "Fern Hill" for the day. Morrie is a fine little chap, very smart & talkative & caused great amusement. Spent whole day at "Fern Hill" & amused the children. Evening I took Morrie home & called on Mrs Kellow 27 Dec. Took Franks' & our children down to the wharf to see the ships 28 Dec. Laurie & I went to Te Aro Baths before breakfast. Afterwards I had a bike ride as far as Kaiwarra & back. We all went to Lyall Bay for the day. Mother Jenny, Frank going in cab. 30 Dec. Went to wool store again and saw all bales opened up & a few buyers valuing. Afternoon I took all the children to the Zoo. (valued 9¼d realized 9½) 31 Dec. We came home by 8.15am train. Frank travelling as far as Adkins with us.