The Thoresby Society

Jan. 1. Read Whitby upon John, and concluded his learned sermons against the Socinians and Romanists ; wrote a little, but diverted by a gentleman come to Leeds purposely to see the curiosities, but though lately at Rome, added nothing to them. Afternoon, at Dr. T.'s; arid evening, invited by Alderman Milner to the clergy feast; stayed late enough.

4. Morning, read; then took a walk, designing to visit the Lady Betty Hastings ; had dear Mr. Lucas's company, and having baited a little at Whitkirk, proceeded vigorously; visited good Mrs. Ibbetson, the learned Doctor's mother, and got well to Led-ston-hall, whei'e most kindly received by the pious lady.

5. Read till family prayers; then with the three ladies, till the Vicar of Ledsham came to read the church prayers. After dinner, the ladies took the air; upon their return, my lady read some very curious letters till evening, that my Lady Frances read to us the Reformed Devotion (preparatory to the sacrament) till the parson read the evening service. After supper, had religious conference till the steward's table and the subaltern being finished, the servants of the upper and. lower house were called up. Mr. Hole, by my Lady's appointment, read our late friend Mr. Nelson of the Festivals, to instruct them as to the Epiphany ; then a chapter as usually before family prayers ; after which all retired to their private devotions, blessed be God for such exemplars ! Mr. Lucas, to save my eyes, read in Bishop Taylor of holy living.

6. Die Dom. Morning, read ditto ; then walked to the church at Leds'ham. Mr. Benson, after a good sermon, administered the sacrament. Walked home through the Park, yet fatigued enough. Got not to church in the afternoon, but read till my Lady and family's return. After which, several poor neighbours and tenants were admitted, for whose instruction an excellent book was read, and afterward we sung the 100th Psalm with great affection ; some in the other rooms, for we had three at least, sung the bass very well, that it was pleasant as well as pious. My friend Lucas also told me afterwards, that he was never so ravished in his life in the ordinance. After supper, the family was again called together, and Birket upon the Epistles read before family prayer. How pleasant is a Lord's day thus spent in his service ! I had, in private, some very refreshing discourse with my Lady concerning the knowledge the saints shall probably have of one another in heaven.

7. Morning, read till time of family prayer ; then with my Lady till near noon, that parson Benson came to read the prayers of the church. After dinner, when the three ladies were gone to take the air, enjoyed the rest of the good family with the parson, who stayed to read the evening service. After which, very agreeably entertained by my Lady with original letters and books till supper-time ; and after, till the family was called up, when Mr. Hole read Birket as usually before prayer.

8. This day in like manner, only evening not so Pleasant because to take leave.

9. Rose pretty early ; then returned with my dear friend Lucas to Whitkirk, and, after a necessary refreshment, to Leeds, where found family well. The Vicar also welcomed me with the acceptable news of my being unanimously elected (together with the present Mayor and Recorder) one of the trustees for the advowson of the Vicarage of Leeds, who are also to elect the ministers of the new church, after the first nomination by Mr. Robinson, who gives the endowment of above 80/. per annum.

10. Morning, read Whitby ; wrote a little till eleven ; then at cousin Wilson's, who acquainted me with the circumstances of the elections on Saturday last. Spent evening at the Saxon's, with Mr. Lucas.

12. Forenoon, as usually. After, showing museum to Monsieur St. Amont, Sir Reg. Graham's eldest son, and Captain Haley, which stayed me so long, that I got cold.

21. Morning, read Whitby ; wrote to Mr. Boulter and Dr. Woodward till eleven. Afternoon, had Sir Roger Beckwith's company till dark.

22. Morning, read and wrote; perusing the old agreement between the Abbot of Coverham and the Prioress of Ellerton for the tythe of Ellerton, at Sir Roger's request, till eleven. After at cousin W.'s till three; wrote till dark, visited by Mr. L. and H.

26. Forenoon, as usually. After, partly abroad and partly in library, amongst papers given me by Sir Roger Beckwith to place amongst autographs. Read Dr. Fiddes's very candid Essay on Cardinal "Wolsey's Life, New Monasticon, &c.

27. Die Dom. Read Whitby. The Vicar preached from Coloss. ii. 8 ; reproving such as disallowing the authority of Scripture, flee to tradition, as though oral traditions were preferable to Divine revelation. 2. Such as look upon the Scripture as a dead letter, how can such distinguish betwixt revelation and enthusiasm ? 3. Freethinkers, who set up their own reason in opposition to revelation, as if Scripture was an encroachment upon it. Afternoon, Mr. Home preached from " Watch and pray ;" if the Son of God did so, how much more need we ? Concluded (during the organ-time) Clark's Abridgment of the Historical parts of the Old and New Testaments; a good epitome.

28. Read and wrote till eleven ; rest of day collating original charters, and marking them as now printed in the New Monasticon.

30. Read Whitby. Mr. Day preached suitably to the anniversary solemnity, from " Lay not innocent blood to our charge," vindicating the church in the appointment, and showing how it should be observed with humility, mourning, and lamentation, even to the fourth generation, though innocent in our own persons.

Feb. 1. Read Whitby till past nine, when prayers began sooner for sake of the trial before the Chancellor about the living at Guiseley. A place was prepared in the choir, and a vast concourse of gentry, &c. Dr. Denny, Rector of Spofforth, was Foreman of the Jury, which consisted of gentlemen and clergy. The case of three claimants, Mr. Hitch, Trinity College (Mr. Witton), and the Duke of Norfolk (Mr. Plaxton), in right of Sir Nicholas Sherburn,* was contested till four by the Recorders of York, Lancaster, Kendal, lawyers Wilson, Johnson, and other counsel. In the evening, the Jury brought in for Robert Hitch, Esq. I stayed till the trial was over, and then went with Mr. Lucas to the Saxon's. 6. Read Whitby; wrote to sons, &c. till eleven. After evening prayers, concluded the Miseries of the Inferior London Clergy, which is wrote with a great deal of spirit.

11. Ended Dr. Hancock's Febrifugum Magnum, an useful and excellent piece for cure of fevers by common water. Read till eleven; after abroad awhile ; then wrote till evening prayers.
18. Morning, transcribed arrears of manor rents till eleven ; read Dr. Woodward's judicious account of Roman antiquities, found near Bishopsgate, London ; afternoon, to visit Parson Robinson, &c.

20. Read, and wrote to Bugden till eleven ; finished the perusal of Dr. Whitby's learned Paraphrase and Annotations on the New Testament.
24, Die Dom. Mr. Hyde, of Royston, preached from 1 Tim. iv. 8, showing that a pious life contributes much to the attainment of riches, honour, and pleasure. Afternoon, Mr. Day preached from Jer, vii. " Amend your ways." Showing the necessity thereof on several accounts: one was for the sake of the Church, persons pretended to be zealous for; they that would fight and die, let them live for it. At evening prayers, the Vicar began his annual Catechetical Lecture.

March 4. Took leave of my dear wife and family ; rode to Wakefield ; took coach for London, in hopes to see both my dear sons at Bugden, and publish the Vicaria Leodiensis. The whole company were from Leeds to London, that encouraged me for the journey. We baited at Elmsal, passed by Nostel and Wragby, where the late Sir Rowland Winne and his lady were buried in the same grave: we lodged at Doncaster.

5. At Newark, passed Trent with ease as well as safety: in great danger last time I passed it.

6. At Grantham was revived with the public prayers. Mr. Smith preached the Lady Camden's lecture, from " not the form, but the power of godliness." After dinner, we continued our journey to

7. Stamford, where we lodged the third night, as we did the fourth at Huntingdon, where both my sons, from Bugden and Cambridge, met me in health. I was much comforted with the sight of them.

8. We called at Bugden, but could not stay; took leave of rny sons. The Lord bless them, &c. !

9. We lodged at Stevenedge; baited at Barnet, and after got well to London.

10. Die Dom. Morning, walked to Temple-bar ; then took coach for Westminster, to wait of Mr. Br. Heard the sermon at St. Clement's in return, where a young minister preached well, concerning the power, wisdom, and goodness of God. After dinner, . walked with Mr. Smith to his brother Harper's, where courteously entertained, but prevented of the afternoon sermon. Called to visit cousin Idle, at the Temple, and, in return, had the pleasing opportunity of evening prayers at Ludgate.

11. Morning, visited by Mr. Wjrburton, Somer-set herald, who kindly accompanied me to several artists, and the greatest printing-house in Europe, viz. Mr. Tonson's; to the library at St. Paul's Church; had the company of Captain Stevens, author of the New Monasticon, and Mr. Smith, of Exeter Exchange ; returned in time for prayers at St. Laurence Jewry.

12. Discharged my lodgings at the inn, and re-moved to Mr. Payler Smith's ; afternoon, visited the relict of my late ingenious friend, Robert Dale, Esq. who died 4th August last.

13. After prayers at St. Paul's, at Mr. Batley's and other booksellers, &c.

14. Visited Mr. Collins; dined at Mr. Harper's, who showed me a curious pedigree of the Lord Chief Justice Coke's, and a large manuscript, wherein are recorded the deeds of 20,000/. per annum that he purchased. We viewed the gardens and terrace walks at Lincoln's-inn ; I was after at the Royal Society, where met with several of my old friends, Sir Hans Sloane, Dr. Halley, &c. and several ingenious gentlemen ; and at the Grecian coffeehouse, with Dr. Stukeley.

15. Walked to Moor-fields, to visit cousin Whit-aker, the Doctor, and thence, a tedious way to Spital-fields ; received the money I had lent son Wood, of his charjman ; then walked to Thames-street for Mr. Bainbridge ; was sufficiently weary, yet obliged to attend Mr. Harper to the eating a barrel of oysters at a tavern, though I loved them not.

16. Went by water to Lambeth ; paid Mrs. Dipper two guineas, sent by her father; walked thence to the Archbishop's palace, where courteously received by Dr. Wilkins ; viewed the pictures of several learned men ; then walked to Petty France, to visit my old friend Mr. Chamberlayne, where I met with several curious and learned gentlemen, foreign and English.

17. Die Dom. Mr. Broughton preached very well at St. Paul's, from Psalm xc. 15. I dined at Mrs. Dale's, and went thence to the Heralds' Church, where Mr. Middleton preached well, but his Scotch tone made me less profitable.

18. Walked to Moor-fields ; paid cousin H.'s two guineas to Dr. Whitaker, for Mrs. Gill ; dined with Mr. Boulter ; thought Mr. Smith's propositions, about printing my manuscript, very hard, especially considering his promises, and the benefits he received from above one hundred charters I communicated to him for the New Monasticon Anglican um, for which Mr. Batley gave him 10/. to come in as a sharer.

19. At the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge ; met with several excellent persons, Lord Percival, but especially Sir John Phillips and Sir Daniel Dolings, with many pious divines, and my old friend Mr. Newman, the Secretary ; was mightily pleased with the accounts transmitted to them from various parts. After, walked to Southampton-buildings, where my kind friend Roger Gale, Esq. had invited several learned men to dine with me, the celebrated Brovvne Willis, Esq., the Admiral's chaplain, Mr. Tookie ; but Dr. Stukeley being confined with the gout, Mr. S. Gale walked with me to visit him, who showed me draughts of many Roman stations he had drawn, and designs to publish. I walked thence to visit cousin Cookson's daughter.

20. Walked from Paul's, four long miles, to Dr. Brooks's lodging, upon his kind letter, suggesting what he thought would be for my advantage ; but I found it was nothing but what I knew before, relating to the Bishop of Lincoln's translation to London ; but he walked with me to both Houses of Parliament, and thence to St. James's, where their address was presented to, and read before the King, who looks well. Sir William Lowther carried us in his own coach to his house, near Hanover-square, (a new and spacious one,) where we dined, and were courteously entertained, his lady and daughters being desirous to see the museum. I afterwards walked to Crown-court, Westminster, to visit Mr. Wogan and his spouse, with respects from Lady Betty Hastings ; was sufficiently fatigued; walked by candlelight from that remote part of the town to my lodgings, but called not, as requested, at the Society of Antiquaries.

21. At St. Paul's; after walked to Exeter Change, and thence to Pall-mall, where most kindly received by Sir Griffith and Lady Boynton; dined with them, and rest of relations there; and in return called at the Royal Society, where voted for the admission of a foreign Prince, (de Cassano, as I remember,) and a physician of Constantinople ; got time enough for evening prayers at Ludgate.

22. At the Heralds' Office, with Mr. Le Neve, Norroy, viewing some of his many rare manuscripts, and some coins of Mr. Miller's ; then writing to my dear and sons. After dinner, walked to the two Exchanges in the Strand ; spent time and money in agreeing with Mr. Smith, for printing niy manuscript, of which I am to take off forty, he to give me ten. I sent the first sheet to the press.

23. Writing letters till noon ; from the chophouse, went to visit Mrs. Drake and her sister Vandeput. Afternoon, with the printer, Mr. Hunter; had visitants, Mr. Chipping; then read the agreeable account of the Charitable Society for the sick and needy in the new erected infirmary at Westminster, wherein 582 persons have already been relieved.

24. Die Dom. . . . Walked to Lincoln's Inn chapel, where Dr. Lupton preached excellently from 1 Cor. . . . Afternoon, a stranger preached very well at the church without Temple-bar, on self-examination. I dined at Mr. Gale's; had the happy convenience of evening prayers on my return home.

25. Troubled that I missed prayers at St. Paul's, which began betwixt five and six, without any previous notice of the hour ; then transcribing the orders of the Society of Antiquaries, lent me by the President, Mr. Le Neve ; visited by Mr. Boulter, dined with him; much pleased with the company of his aged uncle, Dr. Cox, F.R.S.

26. Morning, rose early . . . wrote to Justice Robinson ; walked to Mr. Newman's, and thence to the Society for the Promoting Christian Knowledge, where met with several of my ancient acquaintance, Sir John Philips, Sir Dan. Dolings, Mr. Chamberlayne, &c. stayed till two. After, had Mr. Micklethwait, and the Algebraist's company at my lodgings.

27. Morning, rose about five . . . walked to the Bishop of Lincoln's, but missed of his Lordship, who being one of the Lords of the Secret Committee, was early about that affair ; had the same fate at Mr. Wogan's ; in my return dined at Mr. Smith's, and received a specimen of the Vicaria Leodiensis; corrected it ; read till evening prayers. After, had the company of the ingenious Mr. Salkeld (formerly of Leeds) now an author, and translator of Monsieur Montfaucon.

28. . . . Walked a great way in quest of my nephew Hough, and to Sir John Ingleby's ; was pleased with the learned Mr. Cowper's company, who gave me his sermon preached before the Judges. After dinner at Mr. Gale's; went with the two brothers to see Mr. Rogers's ingenious machine that he has invented for turning medals in ivory or box, in bas-relief, which was surprizing as well as curious, I bought one or two of them : was after with the elder brother at the Royal Society.

29. Morning, walked to St. James's to procure of Mr. Frankland the Act of Parliament for the Bishop of Lincoln ; he showed me some Roman signets and intaglios which he bought at Rome, also some original pictures of Oliver Cromwell, his wife, and other relations (done by the best painters), daughter Claypole, admirably done in miniature. Dined with Mr. Boulter at his lodgings ; was agreeably entertained with variety of curious prints and rare books, particularly Montfaucon of Antiquities, in French and Latin ; he gave me a distinct translation of part of it done for his own use by a French Refugee, whom he charitably employed, and paid for doing it.

30. ... Walked to Moor-fields about Cousin Huntington's business, which had like to have miscarried, and the lace been lost through indiscretion, but I recovered it after denial, and delivered it safe to Mr. Chipping ; then visited Mrs. Drake : after, walked to Mr. Smith's in vain for a sheet from the printer's ; had unexpectedly Mr. Boulter's company.

31. Die Dom. Morning, called at Mr. Hunter's. Walked to the Bishop of Ely's chapel, where Mr. Herring, his chaplain, preached excellently, and had a discourse too seasonable, against perjury and popery. After dinner at Mr. Collins's ; I went to Lincoln's Inn chapel, where a stranger preached well, so far as I could hear, but that alas was not much : in return had an opportunity of prayers, and a Charity Sermon, at St. Dunstan's, to a serious auditory, which was comfortable.

April 1. Rose pretty early .... after prayers walked to St. James's, received the Act of Parliament from Mr. Frankland concerning Thirkleby Church : walked thence to Mr. Sharp's, in Queen-square, beyond the Park, who showed me several curious books, and the draught of the Archbishop's tomb, and he with his brother, Dr. Mangey, promised me a version of it. I walked thence to wait on the Bishop of Peterborough, who received me most kindly, and was thankful for what I had at several times communicated for his history of impro-priations. I now carried an account of two other benefactions to churches, that were new to his Lordship. I returned well wearied by noon, yet refreshed with the sight of some curious manuscripts in the famous Cotton Library, where I was very civilly received by the librarian, Mr. David Casley, who was born at Beeston, in our parish ; in my return, I met also with the celebrated Dr. Tancred Robinson. After wrote till six ; the two surveyors, and Mr. Warren, of Essex, detained me at the Old Parr's Head, till nine.

2. ... Walked again to Westminster, but the Bishop of Lincoln's occasions were so pressing, that several eminent Divines, D. D.'s, were dismissed as well as I : in my return, I heard at the Cotton Library, that the Bishop of London was dead: was after at the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge . . . got promise of books for Leeds ; returned sooner in hopes of meeting Mr. Strype, adhuc in vivis, but disappointed.

3. Morning . . . walked from Paul's to the printer's, being uneasy at their delay. After dinner, read and wrote till evening prayers ; then at Mr. Le Neve, the President's request, walked to the Society of Antiquaries, by whom caressed more than I deserved ; met with some clergy, lawyers and others, very obliging, as Simon Degge, Esq. great grandson, and heir to Sir Simon the author; was pleased to meet with Mr. Kirkpatrick, from Norwich, the history of which place he is writing. Mr. Vertue desired from me the Memoirs of Cousin Lodge to insert with Hollar, &c. The King-at-Arms was very kind in suffering me to lean upon him in my return. 4. Went to the College of Arms, where Mr. Nor-roy (P. Le Neve, Esq.) entertained me agreeably with the sight of some curious manuscripts relating to Yorkshire. Mr. Jones, the Registrar, was also desirous of my acquaintance, and gave me the Moderator and other things of his own writing, though without name ; after dinner, walked to the Royal Society, where I met with several of my old friends, particularly the famous Mr. Derham (to whom I introduced Mr. Palmer, our Yorkshire artist) and Dr. Desaguliers ; Mr. Palmer showed them his Hydrostatic engine, which Avas well approved, as also his new invention as to watches.

5. Received a visit from Mr. Derham, who mightily approved of Mr. Smith's new map of Middlesex, Essex and Hertfordshire. I corrected a sheet from the press, and read Montfaucon, till six, at evening prayers ; after, sent for by Dr. Woodward to the auction at Paul's Coffee-house, where some of Mr. Rawlinson's books sold at a prodigious rate, but I bought nothing.

6. Walked to Petty France, but Mr. Chamber-layne being Secretary, was engaged with the Lord Chancellor, and other Commissioners for the Queen's Bounty, who being met at the Banqueting-house, at Whitehall, I missed of him ; after return, was most kindly received at the Heralds'-office, by John Anstis, Esq. chief King-at-Arms, who gave me the impressions of the arms of the Knights of the Garter, of' the first stall, whose history he has almost finished ; but was disobliged because I durst not promise him a visit at Putney, his country seat.

7. Die Dorn. Walked to Mr. Newman's; was at the Temple church, where the Master, Dean Sher-lock, preached very well, so far as I could hear, from 2 Cor. iv. 17, but I heard badly, though I sat in the next seat to the Benchers'; after dinner, with Mr. Newman, went again to the Temple.
8. Was at Paul's ; then corrected the press ; after dinner walked to the Strand to Mr. Smith's, but he being abroad, I spent most of the time with Captain Stevens, who giving me his Monasticon Hibernicum, I treated him at tavern (2s.) ; after prayers, at Bait-man's, the noted booksellers, and at the auction with Mr. Maittaire.

9. Walked to the Bishop of Lincoln's ; returned to the Secret Committee for Promoting Christian Knowledge, where were present one lord, three knights, and several divines; was after with Solomon Negri about the Arabic version; after, designed for Mr. Chain berlayne's, as invited, but was kindly intercepted by Dr. Mangey, who gave me an Italian Itinerary, manuscript, and constrained me to dine with him at his brother Sharp's ; in return, visited Mr. Perkins, who gave me the Duke of Buckingham's letters from Spain, when Prince (afterwards King) Charles and he were there.

11. Morning and forenoon as usually; afternoon, transcribing rest of Mr. Thomas Milner's will and benefactions, till four, at the Royal Society ; I gave my vote for the Rev. Mr. Williams, to be librarian, and keeper of the Museum ; he had more votes than most of the eight candidates, yet was outdone by one, viz., Mr. Hawkesby ; after I had voted for Mr. Cotton Mather to be F.R.S. returned in time for prayers. This was a very large convention of the Society; I met with good old Dr. SI. . . and other ancient acquaintance, and never saw so great a number of the Fellows together, three rooms almost filled ; Dr. Tancred Robinson and I sat on the same chair.

12. Corrected a sheet from the press, and wrote an account of cures by cold waters, for ditto, Mr. Smith, since printed (but with mistakes) ; after, walked to the Temple, delivered the manuscript at Mr. Newman's ; heard the end of a sermon at St. Dunstan's ; then walked to Petty France; dined at Mr. Chamberlayne's, who gave me Ecton's Account of Queen Anne's Bounty ; in return visited Mr. Boulter, who gave me a duplicate of a manuscript, and Sir John Chardin's Travels into Persia, translated at his request by his Cousin Lloyd. Mr. Boulter showed me also sixteen or eighteen volumes of ingenious and useful manuscripts translated from foreign languages at his charge, by a French Refugee, so usefully and profitably does he spend part of his great estate for the public good.

13. Rose before five; corrected a sheet for the press ; then walked to the Temple, took extracts from the Society's books till near noon. After dinner went to take leave of my neighbour, Mrs. Drake ; in my way very happily met with Dr. Hancock, the pious author of several learned tracts in divinity, and lately of Febrifugum Magnum ; was pleased with his conversation ; then looking amongst some pamphlets ; bought several Bishops and Archbishops' sermons, with others, at pence a-piece.

14. Die Dom. . . . Walked to Lothbury Church, where good Dr. Hancock preached from Col. iii. 1, 2. After dinner went to the Heralds' Church, where Mr. Middleton was upon the same subject, but vastly short of Dr. Hancock, whose sermon (though not very modish) will bide ruminating upon ; in return visited Mrs. Dale and her sister; afterwards read Mr. Cook's excellent sermon upon the augmentation of a Vicarage by the Royal Bounty of Queen Anne.

15. Wrote a little till ten ; then walked to Mr. Gale's, and Mr. Harper's, but missed of both ; in return met the Lord Mayor in all his pomp, with the Aldermen, Sheriffs, with a great train of charity-children, going to St. Bride's Church, all decently habited, some in blue coats with yellow vests, others brown, most with blue caps, but some with white hats and mathematical instruments in their hands. After dinner with Mr. P. Smith and relations ; after at Mrs. Vandeput's, and thence to Mr. King's; sought out more valuable books at penny a-piece, as many as came to 4s. 2d.

16. Wrote till nine, walked to Westminster, but the two Bishops I designed to visit dining with the whole bench of Bishops (as it seems is usual on this day) annually with his Grace of Canterbury, I lost my labour. I went to see cousin Cookson, and in return dined and took leave of Sir Griffith and Lady Boynton. Had orders to proceed as far as 51. to take off the respit from the arms of Sykes.

17. Walked to the printer's, gave the compositor a shilling to hasten his pace. Wrote to the Bishop of Peterborough ; corrected a sheet from the press; and writing from the new edition of Ecton, &c. till evening.

18. Morning, as usually ; then wrote letters to Cambridge till evening prayers. After, received a kind letter and packet from the Bishop of Peterborough.

19. Went to Westminster, to congratulate the Bishop of Lincoln upon his promotion to London.* Was received with more than ordinary respect and freedom. Then went by water to Fox-hall, and thence, with Mr. Boulter in his chariot, through many pleasant country towns to Kingston, where we dined ; and, after passing the Thames, we returned through another part of that pleasant country to Kensington. Visited his mother, and other relations, with Dr. Haigh (en passant] ; walked from Charing-Cross in the dark to my lodging, musing upon my disappointment of Mr. Boulter's company both to Cambridge and Leeds. Had a pleasant prospect of the country at the top of the hill, but a melancholy one at the bottom ; the Earl of Rochester's palace being lately burnt down with that violence that they could scarce save their lives.

20. At the printer's; then writing till dinner ; then walked to Mr. Newrnan's about more charity books ; thence to Exeter Exchange; found Mr. Boulter and Mr. Smith together; discoursed earnestly with the latter about the slowness of the press. After prayers, read in the Bishop of Peterborough's excellent advice to the Clergy of his Diocese.

21. Die Dom. Morning, walked to Lincoln's Inn chapel; Dr. Lupton preached excellently from the Revelations, " Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord ;" showing that whatever is grievous to good men is entirely removed at death; then walked to Duke-street, Westminster ; was courteously re_ ceived by Dr. Bettesworth, Dean of the Arches, the Bishop's brother-in-law, (till his Lordship returned from the Chapel Royal,) who assured me of the Bishop's good opinion of my dear son, and design to prefer him ; had after dinner a great deal of agreeable discourse with his Lordship, but the King being detained in the morning, I was too late for two churches, and being no better for prayers at the third (the poor curate being so hoarse as not to be heard,) I stayed at Ludgate Church till prayers began there.

22. Got up presently after four ; after prayers, at the printer's ; stayed an hour in vain, neither master nor man to be found ; so wrote emendations of the Baronetage for Mr. Collins, or rather transcribed what I had written for him in the country, till six at church.

23. Somewhat indisposed with cold, got last night by fresh sheets, not thoroughly dry; after prayers, at the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge; obtained an additional grant for bibles and prayer-books for the charity-school ; then walked to Mr. Smith's, whose promises are fruitless as to the press; visited Mr. Collins, and gave him my additions to his Baronetage.

24. Morning, read till near six ; at Paul's ; then corrected a sheet, read manuscripts, and wrote till noon; after dinner, at Mr. Harper's, received ten Acts of Parliament; then walked to Mrs. Mary Mil-ner's, who presented me with some learned (though imperfect) manuscripts of her father's, our late good Vicar's ; in return, stayed with the Society of Antiquaries.

25. At Mr. Le Neve's, perusing some manuscripts, part of his late valuable purchase; then with him and other heralds ; coached it to St. James's, where, after the prayer for the occasion, (thanksgiving for deliverance from the plague,) Dr. Reynolds, the new Bishop of Lincoln, preached suitably to the occasion, (a sermon) which, I suppose, will be printed; had Mr. Blennerhasset's company in the Park till I came to the Bishop of London's, with whom I dined, and had much agreeable discourse concerning his Majesty, (the Bishop read the Communion Service in the Chapel Royal,) till prayers in the new chapel in that neighbourhood ; after which, returned to Mr. Smith's; had two clergymen and Captain Stevens to drink Justice Robinson's token.

26. Wrote till nine ; then walked to Mr. Harper's, and coached it from Holborn to Hanover-square, to wait upon Mr. Molyneux, the Prince of Wales's. secretary, who was very respectful ; but his library and curiosities being at Kew, I was in part disappointed, though he invited me earnestly, but cannot possibly have time to go thither; visited also Colonel Bladen, who was very courteous ; dined at Mr. Gale's ; had his kind emendations, in a few places, of my quarto manuscript. I saw there a sample of the satin, lately made at Chelsea, of English silkworms, for the Princess of Wales, which was very rich and beautiful; after, with Mr. Newman, about charity books ; he gave me a specimen of the paper, invented and made by the Protestant missionaries at Tranquebar ; he showed me also Tate and Brady's Psalms, printed there in English.

27. At Mr. Horsefield's ; got a bill at three days' sight for my son at Cambridge; was after at the printer's, well wearied with walks so different; wrote to Cambridge and Leeds till noon ; after dinner, corrected a sheet, wrote to Dr. Hough and Mr. Strype, and took extracts from Mr. Norroy's manuscripts, till six ; at church.

28. Die Dom. Morning, read Hancock of the Christian Religion, and concluded the Bishop of Peterborough's Monitions to his Clergy, till Mr. Newman was so kind as to call upon me, and give me a coach to Hackney, where Mr. Newcome preached from, "In all things give thanks ;" for mercies, afflictions, nay, even infirmities—in all stations, and in all duties. He preached excellently and eloquently. We dined at our good friend's Sir Daniel Dolings, where we were generously and piously entertained; his lady gave me an account of their pious daughter, whose funeral sermon and character have already had a second edition. Afternoon, good old Mr. Strype preached very well so far as I could hear. After a little stay at Sir Daniel's, we walked over the fields to London ; met Mr. Newcome, who had been preaching there this afternoon. In Bishopsgate we called to see Mrs. Mary Maillard, who was so miraculously cured by faith in Jesus Christ when reading the second of St. Mark. I had the relation of all the circumstances from her own mouth, and the attestation by her husband who is minister of the Reformed French Church, and subscribed also by herself in my album. Got well home, and not so fatigued as I dreaded, through my dear friend's assistance and agreeable conversation.

29. Walked to Bishopsgate, and delivered a parcel for my son to the Cambridge carrier; thence to Dr. Whitaker's, in Moor-fields, and Mrs. Vandeput's ; missed of both, but met accidentally with Mr. Boulter, who obliged me to dine with him at the Rose Tavern. After, walked to Exeter 'Change to reprimand the slowness of the printer,

30. Morning, corrected a sheet from the press; then walked to Mrs. Milner's, who was pleased with her father's memoirs; then at the Society for promoting Christian Knowledge till two. After dinner taking extracts from Mr. Norroy's manuscripts till five; visited by Mr. Blennerhasset, of the Chapel Royal, who showed me several of his ingenious compositions in manuscript.

May 1. Corrected a sheet; after prayers taking extracts from Mr. Le Neve's valuable manuscripts till three ; visited by Mr. Lister, a clergyman in these parts, but born at Wakefield. After church at the Society of Antiquaries till past nine; was mightily pleased with Mr. Peck, who is writing the history of Stamford, who visited me the next day.

2. Rose, as always of late, betwixt four and five ; taking extracts from Mr. Norroy's manuscripts till three; delivered my Due. Leod. at Mr. Peck's lodgings, vide his receipt, with promise of his history of Stamford : then at the Royal Society, where Dr. Jurin, the Secretary, read several remarkable accounts of monsters transmitted from beyond sea, and remarks upon inoculation of the small-pox.

3. With two Kings-at-Arms (Gaiter and Norroy) at the College of Arms till eleven ; corrected a sheet till twelve: after, walked to Mr. Smith's about my book ; in return, called at Mr. Newrnan's.

4.. Wrote till eleven ; walked to Mrs. Vandeput's, and Moor-fields, and in my return by Bow Church; was unexpectedly happy in being present at the translation of the (late) Bishop of Lincoln to London. I wrote an account of it to my son at Bugden.

5. Die Dom. Morning, a stranger preached well at St. Paul's, from, " Be not desirous of vain glory ;" but I heard ill, and hasted to Sir Hans Sloane's, where invited to dine with Dr. Sherard, late Consul at Smyrna, but it lost me the latter part of the day, as to religion, by viewing his invaluable museum of natural and artificial curiosities, antiquities, deities, lamps, urns, Roman and Egyptian. In return, visited and took leave of Mr. Peck, the minister and antiquary.

6. Walked to Exeter Change ; delivered Mr. Smith a Ducatus Leod. : thence to Westminster, but the Bishop of Rochester being before the House of Lords, there was no admission : even the Court of Requests was locked : walked thence to Strutton-grounds, to visit Cousin John Cookson ; and in return, Mr. Sharp, Dr. Mangey, and Mr. Boulter, but they were all gone into the country ; returned weary, yet to no purpose. The rain prevented my going to evening prayers.

7. Rose before four; wrote from Mr. Le Neve's manuscript till eleven ; at the Society for promoting Christian Knowledge, whence Sir John Phillips constrained me to dine with him ; so good company, and the conveniency of a coach for rny bad feet, tempted me to accept the motion.

8. Wrote till prayers at St. Paul's ; after at the printer's and Mrs. Vandeput's in vain. After dinner walked to Exeter Change in vain. After prayers at St. Dunstan's, with the Society of Antiquaries till ten. 9- Corrected a sheet; was at the College of Arms a little ; read and wrote till three at the Royal Society, where Sir James Thornhill, the celebrated painter of the dome of St. Paul's Church, was admitted Fellow. Dr. Jurin read the minutes, produced the draughts, and some monstrous productions. Dr. Middleton Massey from Wisbeach, desired to speak with me, and told me he had some manuscripts of Dr. Whichcot's; desired my picture for his Collection, as I did his printed paper of coins; but I was best pleased with the Rev. and pious Mr. Hoole, converted from the Dissenters to the Church, about printing his book.

10. At St. Paul's prayers ; went by water with Mr. Le Neve to Putney, where we were most courteously received by John Anstis, Esq. Garter, principal King-at-Arms, who gave me original letters of several of the nobility, and presented me with his original papers of the History of the Garter, so far as he could recover, and had already printed. These pleased me much better than his rich wine and most generous entertainment ; from Putney we returned to Chelsea, to see Mr. Salter's Collection of Curiosities, which is really very surprising considering his circumstances as a coffee-man ; but several persons of distinction have been benefactors.

11. Walked again to Mrs. Vandeput's, who gave me a very small shred of the black silk embroidery of the cloak that King Charles the First had on when he went to be beheaded ; the Princess of Wales has the rest, which she purchased of the heir of Sir Thomas Herbert: in return, visited the celebrated Dr. Waterland, who has wrote so accurately and learnedly in defence of our Saviour's divinity. Corrected a sheet, and wrote letters till evening rayers; while we were in the church there was a mighty 'shout in the street, which we were after told, was upon the Bishop of Rochester's passing by, some crying out, "No Popish Bishop! no English Cardinal!" but the guards restrained them as much as possible; from mobs of all sorts, liber a nos Domine. 12. Die Dom. Lay till six, having had a bad night ; Dr. Waterland preached excellently from Proverbs, " When sinners entice thee, consent thou not." I was most kindly entertained there at dinner, and had agreeable discourse. Afternoon, Mr. Oliver preached.

14. Read and wrote till past five ; at Paul's; then walked to the Bishop of London's, and thence to Westminster-hall; bought Mr. Coulston's funeral sermon and benefactions ; returned to Christian Society, with whom till past nine : returned with pleasure to my milk dinner. Visited by the ingenious Mr.Calamy, Edmundi Filius Nepos et Pronepos. After evening prayers visited Dr. Waterland, indisposed.

15. Rose before five ; read and wrote till prayers, and after till near one: walked to the pious and charitable Dr. Bray's, at Aldgate ; was extremely pleased with his many pious, useful, and charitable projects, which detained me most of the afternoon, that I was full late at St. Dunstan's, and yet too soon for the Society of Antiquaries, with whom I stayed about two hours, and then left them all.

16. Corrected the press, &c. till prayers ; walked to Temple-bar, but was too late for Mr. Holmes • stayed a little with Mr. Secretary Newman ; read abstract of Mr. Coulson's prodigious benefactions at breakfast. Dr. Gibson was this forenoon installed Bishop of London, propria persona, at St. Paul's • but the ceremony was over before I was aware of it : then hasted to Dr. Woodward's, who had invited several members of the Royal Society to dinner, but stayed for it till past three ; was pleased with their conversation, that I was too late for the Society itself at Crane-court.

17. Walked to Exeter Change in vain ; thence to the famous engraver, Mr. Vertue's, who showed me many effigies admirably well done by himself, and besides the engravings, some of the King's pictures in miniature, very curiously performed. I was also well pleased with the Memoirs he hag collected of eminent artists in this, and former ages. I promised to furnish him with that of Mr. Lodge, whom all own to come next to the famous Hollar : thence I went to visit Simon Degge, Esq. who gave me an autograph of his celebrated great-grandfather of both his names, whose memoirs he designs to publish. He showed me some ancient coins and modern medals with the Roman antiquities lately found in Hertfordshire, till dinner, when mightily pleased with some delicate flowers that appeared very natural, vet were made by his lady of the curious feathers of several foreign and domestic birds, of which flowers she gave me a specimen ; he promised to procure me some of the new Irish and Plantation money of copper and Prince's metal, and I to find him of the tin money when new out of the mint.

18. Corrected a sheet for the press . . . walked to Exeter Change and Captain Stevens's in vain ; could scarce pass for the crowd at Temple-bar, where Mr. Layer's head was setting up : after took a sculler for Westminster. Called at the trifling Smith's a third time this day, yet can get nothing done, but what I take care of myself. After return wrote to Leeds, Bugden, Low Lay ton, &c.

19. Die Dom. A stranger preached (for Dr. Waterland indisposed.) I denied to dine at the Doctor's, being to walk to Westminster, where Mr. Calamy, Junr. prayed very well, concluding with the Lord's Prayer, and preached very well concerning the evil of sin ; particularly insisting upon the shame, unprofitableness, and destructiveness of sin, and had suitable inferences.

20. Lay till past five ; after public prayers walked to several places where they were in bed, but was cheered as I went through Christ Church Hospital to hear them sing the praises of God ; read and wrote till ten. After walked to the Bishop of Carlisle's at Westminster, to visit Mrs. Cookson, which took up much of the latter part of the day.

21. Walked to the Society for promoting Christian Knowledge ; where took leave of Sir Daniel Dolings. Afternoon, with the religious Transylva-nian merchant, Mr. Baha, of whose pious design, see the abstract of the Society's proceedings the last year; and then at the bookseller's.

22. Read and wrote; then with Dr. Bray, and happily met with the good Bishop of Man : at the printer's, and to enquire after Mr. Plaxton, sick; and at the Society of Antiquaries, where were Mr. Gale, Dr. Stukeley, and several ingenious artists, with specimens of their works : after my half-pint, as usually, left them.

23. Corrected a sheet; walked to Dr. Stukeley's, who gave me a model of his head : at the Royal Society, where Dr. Jurin read some ingenious papers received from beyond sea. After with Mr. Degge, and Dr. Stukeley, at the Grecian Coffee-house.

24. Visited Dr. Knight, a learned author in defence of the Essentials of Christianity. Dined with Mr. Boulter and his cousin Rowland, at the Sun Tavern.

26. Die Dom. Walked to Aldgate, where Dr. Bray preached excellently both ends of the day, concerning the Ascension of Christ. Evening, he read prayers again to a considerable auditory, especially of young persons. The charity children were catechised in Dr. Wake the present Archbishop of Canterbury's Commentary upon the Church Catechism, which was distinctly read by them, for their own edification, and the instruction of the auditory. I was extremely surprised at the prodigious pains so aged a person undertakes ; he is very mortified as to the world, and has taken abundance of trouble to have a new church erected in this large parish, though it would lessen the revenue 100£. per annum to him, but he hopes would be for a more general good to his parochians; he received me most kindly, was very agreeable all day, and urged me to stay supper ; but I returned.

27. Morning, read ; till six at church; after walked to the Earl of Pembroke's; but his Lordship being yet confined to his room, I went to Sir Andrew Fountain's, who received me kindly, and gave me a copper medal of Nero and Poppea, and the picture of the Grand Duke of Tuscany, the most ancient virtuoso in Europe, I then took a tedious walk to the Lord Harley's in Dover-street, and in vain, his Lordship being in the country. After, visited Dr. Waterland, and Mr. Clark, till evening prayers.

28. After morning prayers, with Mr. Innys ; then at the Society for promoting Christian Knowledge ; took leave of some dear friends, whom I never expect to see again in this world, but hope, through the merits of Jesus, to meet in a better. Spent the rest of this week in a continued hurry, packing up, and taking leave of friends, particularly the Bishop of London, who gave me good encouragement as to my son ; and the Bishop of Man, Dr. Bettesworth Dean of the Arches, and brother to the Bishop Of London ; but I ought not to omit the humanity of the celebrated Lord Chief Justice Wright, whose history of the Creed I admire much. I have his Lordship's, Bishop of Man's, Dean Bettesworth's, and Sir Thomas Lowther's, (one of the Christian Society) mottoes in my Travelling Album.

June 3. I rose early: at four, walked to Holborn ; had Mr. Smith's and Mr. Eland's company to the stage-coach, where had the hap of good company, and agreeable—Esquire Thornhill, of Fixby, and Mr. Barwell, of Ackworth ; found the dust and heat troublesome. We lodged at Biggleswade, where enjoyed both my sons' company, and Mr. Boulter Tomlinson's, from Cambridge.

4. Morning ; parted with my sons and Mr. T. at Huntingdon ; we lodged the second night at Stamford, where I expected the ingenious Mr. Peck ; was troubled, lest his absence be occasioned through sickness, having given him, as he requested, due notice by post.

5. Morning ; continued our journey this longest stage, and reached Barnby Moor, where so many coaches, that some were ill put to it for lodgings, but by the management of Mr. Barwell, we got a good chamber, and two beds.

6. Proceeded. Dined at Doncaster ; parted with my good chamber-fellow at Ackworth; Son Wood was so kind as to meet me at his brother Croft's : at Wakefield, was attended by cousin Wilson's clerk, and his own horse for me, and cousin Cookson's inan and horse, for my portmanteau. Returned wearied to Leeds, and found all in health there.

10. Morning, read Whitby ; walked to cousin Whitaker's to give her a pleasing account of her son, the Doctor, at London. After, sorted papers till four: at evening with Alderman Milner, Dr. Tom-linson, &c. to drink Mr. Boulter's guinea token.

16. Die Dom. Read Whitby ; the Vicar preached so well from John i. 4. " if God so loved, &c." that son Richard said he had not heard such a sermon since he left Leeds. Afternoon, Mr. Day preached very well, and though I was not so heavy, yet an unprofitable hearer.

29. Morning, rose by four; my fellow traveller calling upon me to begin our journey by five ; then walked the low-road, and got to my Lady Betty Hastings' before noon, where was happy, not only in that lady's company and her two sisters', but the pious Dr. Smith's, (Chaplain to the Prince of Wales,) from whom I received a remarkable account of Mr. Hope, curate of Easington : vide my manuscript account of apparitions.*

30. Die Dom. Walked to Church at Ledsham, where Dr. Smith preached excellently from 1 Thess. v. 22, " Abstain from all appearance of evil;" whence he preached admirably and critically. Afternoon he read the prayers at my Lady's, and Mr. Benson went to preach for a sick minister in the neighbourhood. Afterwards, Mr. Nelson upon the Festivals was read, and some practical tracts to the tenants and poor in the neighbourhood : we were in three distinct rooms.

July 1. Morning; took leave of the pious lady, who urged me to stay till next Monday, when Mr. Lucas promised to come again for me; but I could not for the printers ; that I returned with my good friend, got well home, and in good time.

4, Read Whitby : till eleven, and after till about three, about Manor concerns, and to see the soldiers at Leeds in their new camp.

7. Die Dom. Read Weten hall's Private Devotions. Have I not reason, as the Bishop insinuates, to look upon some of the providential dispensations of God as the just effects and punishment of this remiss-ness and indifferency of spirit; as for example, my lameness and indisposition of body, which is not to be ascribed wholly to the infirmities that naturally accompany old age, uneasiness of mind, losses, and disappointments in estate, discomforts in some relations ? may not these, and other cross accidents, be justly looked upon as the punishment of my sins, and especially, the want of that life, spirit, and vigour, that should accompany those prayers, that alas, are so faint and languid ? Mr. Paley preached excellently concerning the providential care of God over man. Afternoon, Mr. Day preached from Acts vii. 53. Afterwards, read the Bishop of Bristol Dr. Boulter's Sermon before the Society for Propagating the Gospel in Foreign Parts.

10. Read ; then with my family at Sister Wilson's till eleven ; at the funeral of Mr. Mangey, the Doctor's brother, dead in the midst of his days of a pleuritic fever, at Wakefield. Afternoon, stitching some of the learned Mr. Milner's manuscripts till evening prayers. Mrs. Pawson also died at Kippax this day : both these took a journey but of six miles, yet are brought home dead.

11. Morning, read and wrote as usually till eleven : after, at Cousin Wilson's for dedication to Vicaria Leod. ; a little with Alderman Rookes ; then wrote till seven.

13. All day read and wrote, (preface to the Vicaria Leod.) save usual attendance at church.

18. Read and wrote till eleven ; and to visit parson Robinson, who by his continual slumbering seems to be upon the confines of eternity ; then a little amongst manuscripts till evening.

Aug. 13. Read ; then in library till obliged to lie down after prayers; visited Parson Robinson, the benefactor, who is much better, Laus Deo ! but myself had a very bad night.

14. Read Whitby ; was agreeably surprised and half-cured by a letter from my son, whom I hope to enjoy to-morrow.

15. Upon return from evening prayer found my dear son from Bugden ; was thankful for the mercy.

16. The day of my nativity, when I complete niy sixty-sixth year. I got little time to consider the mispence of so much time, as I usually set apart this anniversary to do, which partly my infirmity, and partly company to visit my son prevented. But I rejoiced in the goodness of God, that I enjoyed the pleasing society of my posterity to the third generation.

17. Enjoyed relations till eleven ; after, visited Cousin Wilson and Dr. Tomlinson, en passant, till five; visited by the new Rector of Berwick-in-Elmet, and another clergyman, to see the library till evening.

19. Die Dom. After family prayer, wherein had my son's assistance, accompanied him to the Vicar's, and thence to church, though my distemper forced me out of it ; but after a little fresh air, I returned in time to hear him preach from James i. 13, 14, " Let no man say I am tempted of God :'' whence he showed very well, 1. what is to be understood in this place by being tempted; the original word signifies to prove, or make a trial, and is usually taken in an ill sense, as to seduce to sin ; but sometimes only to prove a person's virtues, in which sense, persecutions and afflictions are called temptations ; but when temptations carry us from our duty, it is blasphemy to say that God is the author of them, which was the substance of the second head : the third was, that no man yields to temptations, but through his own fault and corruption ; when we offend in any kind we ought to acquit God, and to our miserable selves only must belong shame, and a guilty confusion of face ; this should teach us the concisest and most certain way of conquering temptations, viz. to mortify the irregular passions and desires of the mind, and to put our inclinations under the authority of our reason and religion ; we must suppress sin in its first motions ; the most incurable distempers, the corruption of the whole mass of blood, often proceed from little and unsuspected causes, which might have been prevented by a seasonable application. I afterwards dined with my sons at the Vicar's. Afternoon, Mr. Day preached very well, but prevented of noting the heads.

20. Morning, could do little by reason of my distemper, but walked with my son to Cousin Whita-ker's; got to church, but was uneasy. Afternoon, walked from Alderman B.'s with some clergymen and my sons to see the camp ; in return, visited relations (Esquire Rookes, from Rodes-hal!,) at Cousin Wilson's. After evening prayers could do nothing.

21. Had Cousin T. Whitaker's company till eleven. Afternoon, at Cousin Cookson's, who showed us his pleasant new gardens ; sent for by Mr. Bar-well of Ackworth, to see the museum.

23. Read little ; eleven at church ; invited to dine with my two sons at Alderman Milner's, which took up most of the afternoon ; rest at Dr. Tomlin-son's, and see the progress of the new church.

24. After a very bad night could do little but lie upon the bed ; till eleven at church, when forced to the quire-door for air: yet, after dinner, accompanied my sons to relations at town end; and after, against my mind, constrained to show the museum to Sir W. C.'s sister.

26. Die Dom. Read Whitby; but was not able to get to church, which was a very sensible affliction to me. I attempted to improve my involuntary absence from the House of God, but was able to do little, being forced every quarter of an hour to lie down ; yet, at intervals, read five of Mr. Blair's sermons on the beatitudes.

27. All day confined by my infirmity.

31. The learned Dr. Kennett, Bishop of Peterborough,* visited me early, to view the manuscripts and museum, with which he was much pleased. I company of the Apostles, the goodly fellowship of the prophets, the noble army of martyrs, praise and glorify God ; Heaven and earth show forth his divine attributes; though some of our actions seem to have no tendency to this great end ; yet a deliberate, and well-grounded resolution to illustrate the honour of our Creator through the whole course of our lives, will guide us in the true and direct road. 1. He showed how our actions may be disposed to that end: and, 3. what obligations lie upon us to that practice. My distemper prevents my noting the heads.

Sept 3. Read little ; walked with my son to Cousin Wilson's, where gave a bond for some money due for education ; and after dinner, paid IO/. to Alderman Milner, and 26£ to Mr. Lister, to get quit of a perpetual dun; I think I may say for conscience sake, for if my dear wife had continued to go to the meetings, all had been in statu quo; but I am better pleased, though I am plainly cheated by the pretendedly pious, of my part in the chapel. Lord, pardon the guilty, and give me a resigned spirit in all respects ! But what I was vastly concerned for, was parting with my dearest son, who began his journey, for Bugden.

4. Had a bad forenoon ; and after, fit for nothing but sauntering.

5. Yet worse ; was not able to reach church; I was obliged to return to my old course of the cortex Peruv. with three grains of the snake-root in each bolus : finished the perusal of Capt. Stevens' edition of the Monasticon Hibernicum, wherein with abundance of superstition, are some curious and instructive remarks concerning the ancient state of religion in that island.

6. & 7. My indisposition kept equal pace as formerly, and so my slender devotions.

8. This day in like manner ; to oblige relations stirred not out all day, save to prayers afternoon ; yet never had so sad a night as the following : was awaked about midnight by a most terrible pain at my heart, which was so violent, that the anguish thereof made the sweat trickle down from my head to my breast. I had also more than a touch of the pain in the back of my head, which drew tears from my dear wife, who sat weeping over me two hours, which wounded me deeply. This fit was so discouraging as not only to confine me to my room, but put in a bill, though sans name, to desire the prayers of the church; this had the effect, that a vast number of friends from all parts of the town, and some of the parish, sent in a most affectionate manner to inquire after me ; and I question not, but accompanied this with their prayers. In the interim, I read some, and son Richard read others, of Mr. Blair's sermons ; but when night came, went to bed with expectations of the return of the dismal fit, but a divine blessing upon the Doctor's prescription per-vented its return.

9. Read Blair's sermons; was all day in my chamber, but in a tolerable state ; our good Vicar prayed with me.

10. Was all day within ; and after prayer as usually endeavouring to write short letters to Dr. Bray Mr. Commissioner Gale, both Mr. Terricks at London and my dearest son at Bugden. Evening, had Blair read to me.

12. Had the worst day that ever I had since the distemper seized me ; yet it pleased God to give me a good night's mercies intermixed.

13 and 14. Somewhat better ; though not able to get to church, but had the Vicar's kind assistance in my chamber.

15. Die Dom. My illness continued so strongly upon me, that I was not in a condition to get to church, either end of the day, but read, or heard read, several of Mr. Blair's excellent sermons, This day, Mr. Scholey was buried, much younger, and some time ago much likelier for life than myself, yet a complication of distempers has taken him off.

16. The fit more favourable, that I was able to prosecute my study a little, Laus Deo ! Took air in the garden.

19. Forenoon, read Blair as usual, then put a finishing stroke to my preface to the Vicaria Leod.

20. Received a courteous letter from Ledston-hall, and a most endearing message from the pious lady, who inquired affectionately of my Cousin Wilson concerning my health ; and if the Doctors thought the country air might contribute to my recovery, her Ladyship would send her coach for me ; this was kind and reviving ; read Blair, &c.

22. Die Dom. Though not able to attend the public, had the advantage of private means of instruction, by reading, or having read to me, six of Blair's* sermons.

24. Was much affected at prayers, where a bill was put in for two persons under sentence of death : viz. two soldiers, that it is supposed will be shot tomorrow.

25. Read Blair ; after my fit was over, visited by Parson Robinson, the benefactor, till near prayers ; when were three burials, (Mr. Cotton, &c.) and three christenings. Evening, disordered by the absence of son Richard.

26. After a very bad and tedious night for his absence, had as bad a day, the fit recurring with more violence, and also more early by some hours, that I had a long and tiresome day, and very disagreeable, because of the unpleasant, though necessary, duty of reproof.

27. Was better; got to church, and walked to Mr. K.'s to inquire for company for my poor son to Cambridge.

28. Had a bad day ; whether it be the nature of the distemper, or my fretting and dejection of spirit I know not, but was apt to think that what I was flattered was working off, seems now tending to a dissolution of this frail body.

29. Die Dom. Forenoon, read three sermons and was thrice at prayers. Oh that I could add, with the life and vigour that becomes one in be°v ging remission of sin, and a due preparation for eternity !

30. Read Blair; then with the Lords of the Manor about business, though to little purpose ; visited by Mr. Wogan, of London ; got cold, notwithstanding care.

Oct. 9- Transcribing letters relating to the augmentation of the vicarage, till visited by Mr. B. T. who stayed so long (though very welcome) that I got not to church. Evening, read Strype and Blair, as usually.

10. Morning, read Blair ; finished transcript of my Lady's letters, and the Vicar's, about the augmentations.

13. Die Dom. Forenoon, read several sermons on the Beatitudes. Afternoon, ventured to church, even against the affectionate intreaties of relations; but I thought it a tedious time since the 2d of Sept. when I heard the last sermon ; a tedious confinement from the public worship, which I earnestly desired the enjoyment of. Mr. Day preached well from Ps. xcvii. " Clouds and darkness are round about him," &c.

15. Concluded Blair's sermons on the Beatitudes, which are admirably good, and of a truly Christian spirit: read till eleven ; at church ; then at Alderman R.'s, and Dr. T.'s, till four ; read a little till six; at Cousin Wilson's christening of daughter Eliz., had very good company of clergy, yet durst not stay for fear of cold.

18. Forenoon as usually ; after at the funeral of Dr. Midgeley, the Vicar preached well from that of the Apostle, " there remaineth a rest,'' &c. gave a deserved character of the party.

19. All day with the Lords of the Manor choosing constables, save a little to wait upon the Archbishop of York, at Cousin Milner's.

20. Die Dom. Read Whitby ; the Archbishop of York preached excellently from that concerning Abraham : " I know that he will teach his children, and his household after," Gen. xviii. 19, whence he insisted on the duty of masters and mistresses of families to instruct their children and servants (which are generally the most ignorant part of mankind) in the fear of the Lord. Showing the nature of the duty and the proper way of performing it; the strict obligation that the governors of a family lie under to it, advising to furnish them with useful and necessary books of devotion, and allow them convenient time and place, also to set them a good example and to pray with, and for them ; examples being very prevalent, especially in persons of superior rank: keeping a watchful eye over them, that they addict not themselves to prevaricating, to idleness, &c. impress upon their minds the thoughts of death and judgment, but, alas ! how are these duties neglected not only by the generality, but even by those that seem to have a sense of religion ; reproving the neglect of family prayer, or too slight a performance of it : he preached excellently, but I heard not distinctly, and blamed my bad ears, (not inattention' for I was very desirous to hear and practise) till I heard a general concern for his Grace's voice being much weakened since he preached here formerly. Afternoon, Mr. Day preached well from Jabez's petition, 1 Chron. iv. showing that it is our duty as well as interest to beg that God's hand may go along with us. In return, visited Cousin Cookson, in the gout.

21. Morning, read Whitby ; wrote to Sir Griffith Boynton till eleven ; had company of new tenant to dinner. After, at Alderman Milner's to take leave of the Archbishop of York. After, read Strype, &c. 24. Read; but missed prayers, in taking leave of my dear son for Cambridge, which I did, as my wife also, with a sad heart.

Nov. 1. Read Whitby, &c. till eleven ; at church ; after read Vicaria Leod., and concluded Archbishop Wake's Commentary on the Church Catechism ; from church walked to Burmantofts to visit Cousin Whita-ker and Mr. Moult, both of them indisposed ; was scarce able to crawl home.

2. Read Whitby ; wrote and read till eleven. Afternoon, at funeral of Mr. Cunliffe, dead in his prime ; he was one of the three gentlemen in this street lately prayed for, of whom I only, though the eldest by much, remain alive.

8. Morning, read Whitby ; wrote till eleven ; at church. Afternoon, wholly with Cousin Wilson; pleased with his pious and edifying discourse, but troubled for the death of my late dear friend, John Chamberlayne, Esq. F.R.S. and Secretary to the Society for Propagating the Gospel in Foreign Parts, and for Queen Ann's Bounty. Evening, read Strype's Ecclesiastical Memorials, and Whitby on the Epistles. 10. Die Dora. The Vicar preached from Deut. xvi. 18. suitably to the occasion of the Mayor's appearance : showing the duty of judging the people with just judgment, especially to make them observe duly the Lord's day, else there will be no regard to him all the week after. Afternoon, Mr. Twisletcn preached very well from Eccles. xii. 1. Called to visit Cousin Cookson returned from London, who told me she was glad to see me there, it being more than she expected when she saw me last at home.

13. Read and wrote till eleven : was under discouragement through the apprehension of a fistula. I earnestly begged of God that I might not dishonour him by impatience.

14. 15, and 16. All three days in my chamber, save when I was able to get to church.

18. Read Whitby ; then abroad about business (yet in vain) till eleven : at church; so part of the afternoon ; and about poor ministers' concerns : was much affected with the piteous state of a good woman oppressed with melancholy, who came mourning to me, affirming she was a reprobate. I gave her the best advice I could, and lent her the new Manual of Devotion. The Lord speak comfort to her soul!

19. Abroad about my dear son Thoresby's business ; paying money for a bill. This day, Mr. Ash, a young merchant, was buried in the prime of his days : he left 551. to the charity-school.

21. At the Moot-hall to take the oaths appointed by the late Act of Parliament.

24. Die Dom. The Vicar preached well from 1 Cor. xi. 26. Afternoon, Mr. Day preached from Rev. xx. 17. but I was an unprofitable hearer; while the organs played, read a short but excellent tract against gaming.

25. Read Whitby, and wrote per post till eleven; at church ; so afternoon : this day, Cyril Arthington, of Arthington, Esq. F.R.S. was interred ; and lean-not but recollect, what alterations a few years have made in the Wharf-dale gentry: Mr. Kirk and his son, Mr. Dyneley and his son ; Mr. Hitch (about a month ago) and his brother, and now Mr. Arthington, most, if not all of them younger than me. 28. Forenoon, in like manner; spent some days in reviewing former Diaries, not knowing but that the next Lord's day may be the last time, considering my present weakness, that I may have an opportunity of receiving the Lord's Supper. I found a memorandum in my tenth Diary, that the Word of God being an excellent preparative for eternity, I was desirous to know, so far as I could retrieve it, how often I had read the Bible over in my family, but not having noted it so particularly before, I am forced to begin my account the month before my happy marriage, when, viz :
January 4, 1684-5. I begun to read the Bible, with the learned and pious Mr. Poole's Annotations, and having read that, and the Continuation,
May 24, 1689- I begun the Bible again, with Diodati's Annotations, (the Analysis to which is done by a different hand.)
June 22, 1601. I begun the Bible again, with Bishop Hall's Paraphrase, which being but short and upon particular places,
March 2, 1692-3. I begun with those called the Assembly's Annotations, in two large volumes, small print ; which, with other authors that intervened (reading sermons some part of the time, instead of chapters,) kept me employed near five years. Note, though these go by the name of the Assembly's, Bishop Richardson and other Episcopal Divines bore a worthy share therein.
January 11, 1698-9- I begun the New Testament, with Mr. Baxter's Paraphrase ; and 11 th of September, same year, begun Bishop Hall's Paraphrase the second time.
April 22, 1701. I begun the old translation of the Bible, with the marginal notes, and read along therewith Mr. dark's Analysis, or Survey of the Bible.
February 14, 1702-3. I begun the third pious author's Annotation upon the Bible, (and read also his Harmony of the Gospels); the third author, Mr. Samuel Clark, jun.s was one of a holy, heavenly, healing spirit, as appears by an original letter of his, in my collection, which I highly value.
Oct. 30, 1704. I begun the Bible, with arguments and marginal notes, as in the edition preceding the present translation.
April 7, 1706. I begun the Bible, with Pool's Annotations, second time.
July 7, 1709. I begun the excellent Mr. M. Henry's upon the Pentateuch.
Feb. 10. Begun his second volume, (upon Joshua,) and there being no more yet published, I continued from Job to the Revelations without them.
Jan. 1, 1710-11. I begun the edition of the Bible (in secret) that was printed by Harrison, anno 1562, with Archbishop Cranmer's Prologue, which I finished the 20th of December after.
Feb. 9. After I concluded an ancient Edition of the Bible, in quarto,
The same Feb. 9, 1712. I begun Tindal's translation of the Bible, in folio, with notes upon each chapter, printed anno 1549 ; which I concluded, March 28, 1713, as I did another somewhat different translation of the Bible, (printed in a different character, beyond sea,) 15th Aug. 1713.
Aug. 16,1713, I begun again the Holy Bible of the present Translation. Since which time, I have read the Bible six times, but being without Paraphrase or Annotations, need not be particularly mentioned.
June 11, 1718. I begun the New Testament, with the pious Mr. Burkitt's Expository Notes and Practical observations; an excellent family book, which I finished August 1, 1719 ; and then begun the learned Dr. Hammond upon the New Testament, which I ended, 22nd May, 1720 ; the paraphrase proper for a family, but the annotations being more scholastical, I read frequently in my closet. The other two volumes, from Job to Malachi, being since published by my late dear friend Mr. M. Henry, I read them in family ; and Mr. Daubuz (my late learned friend) upon the Revelations, in secret: and have since read the former volume of Dr. Whitby's Paraphrase and Commentary on the New Testament, and upon six of the Epistles in the second volume, which I read, not as placed, but in that order of time in which they were written.

Dec. 3. Read and wrote as usually till eleven, at church ; after, a little abroad about business, disposing of some plate to discharge what was laid out for my children.

17. Read and writ till eleven ; at church; then received a comfortable letter from my dear son Thoresby, about his new living, and his solicitude for the spiritual welfare of his parishioners, which refreshed me.

18. Read Whitby ; then writ a letter of thanks to my kind friend the Bishop of London; writ also to rny dear son at Rickmansworth, till eleven ; at church; then sending a parcel to my son Richard at Cambridge ; afterwards to visit cousin Kirshaw in the gout; paid my ten pounds that I subscribed towards building the new church.

20. Read Whitby ; then with the other trustees distributing great-grandfather's dole till eleven ; at prayers; and after, as my strength would permit.

21. Not able to assist them in that charitable work, but got to the funeral of a neighbour, Thomas Henderson. Lord prepare me to follow !

22. Die Dom. Read a little, but was presently forced to lie down again, and was not able to get to church either end of the day ; read Dean Hare's two loyal sermons sent me this morning by Alderman Rooke.

23. After a bad night, read Whitby ; then correcting errata in the Vicaria Leod.; not being able to get to church, which took up all the day.

24. Forenoon, entirely upon the bed; made a poor shift to kneel at family prayer, but forced to offer up my private supplications upon my weary bed; afternoon, rather better, though confined to my chamber.

27. Read Whitby ; then to wait of Sir William Milner with my Vicaria Leod. for the Archbishop of York, and received a kind letter from the Bishop of London on that account. Mr. Glover, vicar of Knaresborough, preached the commemoration sermon at St. John's, from that of the Apostle, " Faith without works is dead ;" after dinner, read and writ till three; at prayers.

31. Read and writ till eleven ; at church; dined with relations at cousin Nicholson's, and was after with the excellent Bishop of Man, at cousin Wilson's, but stayed little, being indisposed.

Transcribed an indulgence for a wavering Romanist.