Tom’s later diaries

Tom Rhymer’s Later Diaries

7 February 1819

A sharp morning with frost still in the ground, though easing as the day went on. The first coach came in well and we kept the change quick. Byron said the road beyond the ridge was firm though uneven in places. The yard easier for the cold and the work forward without delay. The house steady.

18 May 1821

The weather mild and the road in good condition after recent drying. Ellis steady with the morning coach and no hindrance to the running. A small parcel left to be called for which I set aside. Bread baked early and answered well. Little to remark upon beyond the ordinary course of the day.

2 August 1823

Warm and close, the road dry and rising in dust where much used. Turner kept good time and we turned them round without trouble. Byron spoke of the road ahead being much the same and nothing to hinder. The yard required watering again by the stable doors. The house busier toward dinner.

11 November 1824

The ground softening with recent rain and the road growing heavy in places. Dawson brought the first through without mishap though slower over the lower stretch. Hughes delayed us a little over a parcel but nothing of consequence. The kitchen well forward and the house easy for it.

3 July 1825

The afternoon coach well loaded and the house lively for a time. Mr Wordsworth took a little dinner in the best room and spoke civilly enough, though he seemed more inclined to look out upon the road than to join in conversation. Nothing to delay the coaches and the day passed in good order.

21 September 1826

The road much taken with carts and the going uneven where the wheels have cut deep. Botham brought the morning coach through in good order and we kept the change quick. A package left and taken up before evening. The house more engaged toward supper and several staying longer than they might.

14 January 1828

A hard frost in the night and the ground firm underfoot. The first coach came in well and we lost no time in the change. Byron said the road ahead was holding though rough where the frost has lifted it. The yard easier for the cold though the water slow. Little to trouble the day.

6 April 1830

A fine morning and the road drying well after rain. Ellis steady and the coaches running to time. The baker brought flour before dinner and it was set properly in the store. The house quiet for the most part and the work regular.

29 October 1832

The weather turning and the road growing heavy again with passing carts. Turner brought the morning coach through without trouble though slower than of late. Byron spoke of deeper going further along and no improvement expected. The house steady and nothing to delay the coaches.