Florence Minch Stauffacher Diary – 1918.                                                                                Index

[Inside front cover, 5-year diary covering 1917, 1918, 1919, 1920 & 1921]

Paid on 2^nd mule

Florence M. Stauffacher,

Monroe, Wisconsin.

_________________

Hatboro, Pennsylvania

__________________
       Kijabe, B.E. Africa

__________________
       Narok, Masai Reserve
       B.E. Africa

[Poem, on clipping]

A NEW LEAF.

He came to my desk with a quivering lip,

The lesson was done -

“Dear teacher, I want a new leaf,” he said,

“I have spoiled this one.”

In place of the leaf so stained and blotted,

I gave him a new one, all unspotted,

And into his sad eyes smiled -

“Do better now, my child.”

I went to the throne with a quivering soul,

The old year was gone -

“Dear Father, hast Thou a new leaf for me?

I have spoiled this one.”

He took the old leaf, stained and blotted,

And gave me a new one, all unspotted,

And into my sad heart smiled -

“Do better now, my child.”

[Additional poem, on clipping]

THE GLORY OF PRESSURE.

“Pressed out of Measure.” --2 Cor. 1.8.

Pressed out of measure and pressed to all length;

Pressed so intensely it seems beyond strength;

Pressed in the body and pressed in the soul,

Pressed in the mind till the dark surges roll.

Pressure by foes, and pressure from friends,

Pressure on pressure, till life nearly ends.

Pressed into knowing no helper but God;

Pressed into loving the staff and the rod;

Pressed into liberty where nothing clings;

Pressed into faith for impossible things.

Pressed into living a life in the Lord,

Pressed into living a Christ-life outpoured.

Tues. Jan. 1

Scarcely thot another year would find us here. We are so grateful that He is leading us out.

Mr. Anderson was at the boat & brot us mail. Shall not read it til we get onto the boat. Reading Bible thro.

Wed. Jan. 2

Mr Goodall, Consul General has helpt us a lot. The men were at his Bible class last night had a nice time. Gribbles came today. Mrs A. & I with the 3 boys went shopping. 10¢ store only.

Thur. Jan. 3

Sewed & wrote. A Ms. McGlassen had the 3 men to lunch & this P.M. came with 7 pass. car & took us for a long ride. Quite a crowd of us had pictures taken for paper. Out to Miss Rodds prayermt'g this eve. Gribbles too. Nice time.

Fri. Jan. 4

Lovely day – warmer. Reporter called to see us & take pictures. A family of 7 have the room upstairs. go to India. Helpt with the baby. Took Marg. Gribble to Park this P.M. Men watched them. Mrs A. & I got shoes for cildren. Jno gone to Mission with Mr Goodall.

Sat. Jan. 5

Tho't surely we'd get off today but may not even tomorrow. Took children to Park. Picayune reporter called too. Guess we got everything we need.

Sun. Jan. 6

Went to M.E. Church to hear Bishop Bashford from China. This eve went to Baptist Ch. heard Mr Haas. Jno went to hear a lecturer on Theosophy. Think we'll get on tomorrow. Andersons went along to supper tonight.

Mon. Jan. 7

We came aboard this P.M. or eve. Every thing thro customs & fine. Don't sail before morning. Had supper on board & nicely settled. Boxes all in hold. Get 'em out tomorrow. Many more on board than we had thot. Many children. Haases papers came just in time.

Tues. Jan. 8

Left about 9. Got some mail. Came down river all day. Got into gulf about 6:30. I know it. Got trunks into cabin & read letters. New Orleans is 110 miles up river.

Wed. Jan. 9 (Father S.s 72^nd birthday.)

Started 3 layer letter. Co. Robin. & Father. Took first grab out of bag & got Ida D's dates. Wrote her. We meet at 9:45 for prayer. We A.I.M.ers. Jno is studying masai.

Thur. Jan. 10

Another grab brot Elizabeth's towel & Wes's letter & snap of a pig. Still holding my own. A strong wind on but not very rough. Mr. Martin who has been ill is out on deck today. Decided to start Swahili.

Fri. Jan. 11

Had Swahili class at 4:30. Several want to join. Today's grab brot stacy's pictures & box of fudge. Awfully windy today. Rough this evening. Glad its bedtime. The Lord has been good to us.

Sat. Jan. 12

Felt rather “rocky” all day. Cough bothers a lot. Sick headache this eve. No dinner. Lynns package today. Class on deck.

Sun. Jan. 13

Got so sick last eve that I vomited. Then felt better. Don't feel extra today but have been up all day. Episcopal services at 11- by Mr Everet. Song service this eve. Warren Mathises pkg. today.

Mon. Jan. 14 *

Feel better but cold in head much sneezing & blowing. Discovered the laundry. Didn't very good progress today only 240 miles.

Tues. Jan. 15

We are getting in tomorrow morning early. Very rough today & I feel very bum. cold seems to hang on. Stomach is bad & headache. Went out to breakfast but no other meal. Ate some Uneeda's.

Wed. Jan. 16

Got up early. “City of York” in harbor. Thot our letters would return on it but it pulled out too soon. Got cards off too. Walked around the town. Very hilly place. Visitors on tonight & a dance on deck. Wont leave til morning. Had ice cream sodas. A very nice place. St Lucia

Thur. Jan. 17

Left St Lucia at daylight. Watched as long as we could see land. Very rough. No dinner or supper. Much drinking & noise last night.

Fri. Jan. 18

Am writing this a weeek later. No writing a week ago. Many were sick. Stewardess brot meals on deck & into cabin.

Sat. Jan. 19

Miss Tubbs very sick too & a Mrs. Kennedy.

John even doesn't feel well. 2^nd Class is very rough.

Sun. Jan. 20

John & others went to services. Not I. Mr Everett led. Song service this eve in music saloon.

Mon. Jan. 21

Still rough. Mrs. Miller has her chair near on deck & we tell each other how badly we feel. Raymond even lost a few meals but not Claudon. He says he's “hospital keeper” in our cabin.

Tues. Jan. 22

Some difference between last year & this. Don't go down to meals yet. Tho' am feeling a little better. Tried to knit a little. Have Swahili every afternoon.

Wed. Jan. 23

Have Bible study on our deck every A.M. Went out to dinner this eve. No accident. It seems to be smoothing down some.

Thur. Jan. 24

Started a general letter to grab bag people. Want to do washing but can't get up courage yet. Prayerm't'g in 2^nd class. Dr. led.

Fri. Jan. 25

Every one seems to be straightening out. Sewed & attended all meetings. Had a mock trial on deck. Very funny. Lovely on deck this eve. Moonlight.

Sat. Jan. 26

Up early & washed before breakfast. John helpt. Hard to get all dry there is so much. Stewardess took some. On deck late – Lovely. Boat still rolls a little but I don't notice it much. Dance tonight.

Sun. Jan. 27

Usual services. Mr. Haas talked in A.M. service. Read African Adventurers. And started The Moffats. Both Mrs. Millers books. Called on II class. This eve song service Mr. Miller led.

Mon. Jan. 28

Ironed for over an hour this morning. Mrs. Anderson washed big lot. I did a few. Called on II class again. Exam in Swahili. Pretty stiff.

Tues. Jan. 29

Washed my hair this morning. Lots of talk of the ghost party. Corrected papers In Swahili. Prayerm't'g in II class. Some crew present.

Wed. Jan. 30

A good deal of controversy over the party this eve. Some missionaries went masked- others didn't. Contribution for Red Cross by missionaries was $20. Jno's eyes have played out so he can't read so much but is winding yarn. Went to II Class for a sing.

Thur. Jan. 31

Great fun this A.M. when father Neptune was supposed to be initiating those who had never crossed the equator. Painted & masked men caught several & after pretending to shave them dumped them backward into the big canvas tank of water. Great fun for all as it was prearranged.

Fri. Feb. 1

Children have been swimming in the tank. Boys like it too. Getting pretty rough again. Mr. Everett now eats breakfast at our table to get in a little conversation in Swahili. Singing & prayer m't'g again in II class. We didn't go. Wrote to mama.

Sat. Feb. 2

Claudon has sore throat. Good concert tonight. Ironed some. Wrote.

Sun. Feb. 3

Very rolling. & I'm up all day. Unheard of before. Took Claudon to the doctor [to] paint his throat also has sore foot. Will no doubt be better tomorrow. Lutheran missionary gave good talk on the 2^nd coming this eve. Surprised every one.

Mon. Feb. 4

Claudon's throat better. I feel horrid tho haven't missed any meals. Washed before tea this morning.

Tues. Feb. 5

Will get in early tomorrow. Going very slow today & rolling frightfully soup spilled & cleats on the tables. Gulls around shows we're near land. Capetown.

Wed. Feb. 6

Got up at 5. Capt. said must be up by 6 as we went thro dangerous parts then. Spent the day on shore. Got helmets & fruit. Most got off. Only 2 tables in dining room. An ideal day & evening. Sorry to part with many. Gribbles left too.

Thur. Feb. 7

Left in good time. Up again to see the last of Capetown. Mr. & Mrs. Peppet & Mr Haar got on for India. I missed lunch. Not exactly sick but too rough to go down to eat. Seems very tame without the Vandeville people. Supper in cabin.

Fri. Feb. 8

Try to study Swahili but doesn't go very well. Tho' its better today than yesterday. Mr. Philips had Bible Class. No land in sight much. Light houses this eve. & met a hospital boat – green lights & red cross.

Sat. Feb. 9

Washed early & ironed P.M. The men went to the hold to fix things up. Packed up partly. Watched the shore this eve. Looks beautiful. Get in tomorrow about noon.

Sun. Feb. 10

Got up as usual & sat on deck. Landed about 2 P.M. & came right up to the Hitchcock home. My! its great to be on land. Lovely ideal day. God is so good. Congregational party mostly here too. About 17 altogether. Jno not feeling well. Things still move & roll as on boat. Early to bed.

Mon. Feb. 11

Grand day. Went down town & to the boat to see about things. Men found we are likely to get off about the 26^th. Spent a little while at museum. Mrs. Andersen & Miss Hansen went down town. I kept Earl. Wrote cards.

Tues. Feb. 12

Had Swahili class. P.M. went to Beach with Hoyts who are on way home. They may come here to board. Watched bathers. Very high sea at this time. Such ideal weather. Roosters awaken us at dawn.

Wed. Feb. 13

Swahili at 11. Philips left for their work. Wrote Mrs. Wilcke & Mrs. Delsroff. Claudon lost another tooth. One yesterday too. Changed sleeves in Raymond's waist which were backward. Nice walk this eve.

Thur. Feb. 14

Hardly saw this far a year ago. Rained all day today. Couldn't even go for a walk this eve. Men busy all day with passport business. Next door is vacated today will move tomorrow.

Fri. Feb. 15

Moved into the Cottage they have leased for a year. We A.I.M. people are all here. This is the 4 anniversary of papa's death. How fast time flies.

Sat. Feb. 16

Who should come in today but Miss Stumpf & Miss Martin from Kijabe on way home. Talked long & hard. They hope to get on next Fri. at least Miss Stumpf.

Sun. Feb. 17

We all went to Pres. ch. expecting to hear a S. Africa United missionary talk but he didn't appear & Jno was roped in. Mr Andersen talked tonight & Jno at a Cong. ch. Miss Martin is quite tired out.

Mon. Feb. 18

More people came to Concord. A Dr. Hanlin took Miss Stumpf, Miss Martin, Jno & I for a long ride. 'Twas fine. City of Lahore came in. Sent mail for it.

Tues. Feb. 19

Went to Albert Park for picnic. Took lunch. Miss Stalker, Hoyts & we. Nice time. Miss Thomas left by train for Delago Bay there to get a boat for Inhambane.

Wed. Feb. 20

Trying to get more time for studying Swahili. Washed & ironed today. Electric iron. Every body ironing something. Pressed suits. Mrs Hoyt brot dresses to press.

Thur. Feb. 21

Children having trouble with “sand worm”. Dr. advised freezing but not very successful. Mr Hoyt helpt Mr. Andersen make frame as screen in dining room, so it can be used as bedroom. Jno went to museum. Rained hard all P.M. & eve. Am painting childrens feet with codine. Terrible irritation.

Fri. Feb. 22

Little tho't a year ago today that I'd be here. Jno helpt Mr Anderson this A.M. finish partition. P.M. all went to Clarkes to tea. Very nice time. R's foot very painful because of frosting it. Am so sorry I tried it.

Sat. Feb. 23

Went down town with John. Miss Stumpf tried to get Miss Martin settled on her boat but company wouldn't let her get on. Bo't a few things down town. Ribbon for Florence Christman & bag for Emils Florence. Miss Stumpf and Hoyts went on board. Miss M's mind is bad. Sometimes forgets where she is. so I sleep in Miss Stumpf's bed tonight.

Sun. Feb. 24 (Papa's birthday)

Lovely bright day. Jno & I with Miss Martin had early tea. Hitchcock Sisters were down too. Couldn't go on board with Miss M. but she came back & said she had upper berth etc. Do pray she may be kept in quietness. He is able. Raymond has high temp. Stomach bad. Miss Clarke called this P.M. A year ago. Jno has meeting also the other men.

Mon. Feb. 25

Washed quite a lot. Raymond is better. Something wrong in his nose. Jno got a box so we can discard a suitcase or two. Walked to Botanical gardens. Washed hair this eve.

Tues. Feb. 26

Mrs. Anderson & I ironed. Mr. A & Jno left at 6 & visited a mission station at Manzi Mtoti. Got back for dinner this eve. Boys bites are better but still bother. Are arranging the sitting room in the main house. Sent Della letter. Flo a little bag.

Wed. Feb. 27

Mama is 64 today. Raymond has temp. all day. This eve its between 103 & 4. Seems to feel very miserable. tho his nose is better & he can breathe very well. Shall wait til morning & then if still ill will call doctor.

Thur. Feb. 28

My, my what a day! Raymonds temperature was down this morning & he seemed to feel quite bright but complained of his throat being thick. When we looked into it 'twas very white so when doctor McCord called to see Mrs Jay I asked him to look at R's throat. He feared diphtheria & kept the others away. Took swab & found it was. Health officer came & suggested we take R. to hospital. I wanted to go too but he said no. The doctor injected antitoxin. R stood it like a man & when we found he'd have to go alone he was very brave. It seems awful! When I go into the room & his bed is empty I feel as tho he was dead. Talked late with Andersens – sitting on veranda – on healing. In my own mind I can't come to any conclusion. Every one is very sympathetic & helpful.

Fri. Mar. 1

Talked with nurse. R. had a fair night. Officer came & fumigated every thing. Says R's throat is fine & danger mostly passed. Jno & I had eaten over here by ourselves. Now are again at the general table. I wore Mrs. Andersens clothes til mine were fumigated. Are asking the Lord that He spare the rest. Bot R two suits of pajamas.

Sat. Mar. 2

Nurse reports Raymond as quite content. We can't send flowers or books yet. Hope he gets his letter. Sent one to Cora.

Sun. Mar. 3

Jno went to native service. Claudons feet & legs trouble so I staid home all day. Painted them with iodine. Wrote the home folks. Jno talked this eve at Presby.

Mon. Mar. 4

Found this P.M. that the Castle Company expect the boat about the 14^th. Praying the Lord will help R. out of the hospital by that time. Washed.

Tues. Mar. 5

Raymond continues improving. Men went down to find out things. Health Officer thot it possible that Raymond would be out in time for the boat. The Misses Hitchcock left & also Miss Dear. Miss Ching is here to manage the work til they return. Talked to native women at hostelry.

Wed. Mar. 6

Raymond may now have flowers. Everything goes on very smoothly under Miss Ching's management. A Mr & Mrs Davis came yesterday. Very hard Swahili lesson this eve.

Thur. Mar. 7

Got things ready for Raymond. Xmas crackers etc. Jno took them & got some flowers & took all out to him but did not see him of course. The rest of us went to Umgini river. Jno brot 2 water melons. Fished but didn't get a bite. Davises & Mr Joy were along.

Fri. Mar. 8

Claudon complains of his right foot hurting. Raymond is getting solid foods now. Had last lesson in Swahili. Very hard.

Sat. Mar. 9

Nurse told me Doctor had taken swab of R's throat, so called this eve. “Positive”- was the report. I can't give up. Will trust for the morning. he takes another in the morning. Claudon's foot very swelled & sore. Prayerm't'g this eve.

Sun. Mar. 10

Jno & I went to Bartons for tea. C's foot very painful but has opened a bit- will soon be better now. Raymond still cheerful. Jno talked at Stamford Hill.

Mon. Mar. 11

It seems we are not past fearing disappointments even tho we are nearer our goal than last year. [One year ago had just been denied permit to enter Kenya.] Our boat is in & we leave on Wed. Will learn of the tests tomorrow.

Tues. Mar. 12 *

Ironed. Mended & rested. After tea Mrs. Andersen, Miss Stalker & I went to Clarke's. The men found we couldn't go on board til Thurs. and Raymond will go to the boat from the hospital. Thank God.

Wed. Mar. 13

Mr Andersen's birthday. Jno went to see about getting R. How we've prayed. They let him come this P.M. Looks white but not thin. Mrs Barton came with her 7 for P.M. tea on the lawn. Nice time. Doesn't seem possible we will soon be off. and how much has happened this year.

Thur. Mar. 14

Had breakfast early. Mr Joy came to boat with us. Our quarters aren't so pleasant as we had hoped. Still could be worse. Miss Stalker, Mrs. A & Earl, R. & C. & I are in one 8 berth cabin. Men in another. Rather rough.

Fri. Mar. 15

Most every one pretty sick. Mrs. A. dressed the boys feet. & hands. Jno was even sick. Just staid in chair all day. hoping 'twould be better next day. Miss Stalker, Mrs. A. & Earl sleep on deck.

Sat. Mar. 16

A little better. Miss Stalker helpt with the boys. R. has 3 bad spots on hands. I did them tonight but hard work. Mrs A. & Earl & Miss Stalker sleep on deck again.

Sun. Mar. 17

A beautifully quiet day. Sea very calm. Feel quite fine. R's cold is getting worse & without doubt is whooping cough. Poor fellow looks very bad. No services.

Mon. Mar. 18

Another calm day at sea. God is good. Boys sores seem better are asking for deliverance for Raymond. Concert on deck this eve. Storm last eve drove many down from deck. Find many nice people on board.

Tues. Mar. 19

Claudon coughs a good deal. Lookt threatening at bed time but did no harm. Spend A.M. at Swahili- Can't do much with so many around.

Wed. Mar. 20

Every thing as usual. Hard to have an appetite. Nice stewards but poor food & served very careless. Most stewards are very young.

Thur. Mar. 21

A severe storm toward morning cooled the air. Claudon & I both took worse colds. Expect to get to Daressalaam tomorrow. Running very slowly this eve.

Fri. Mar. 22

Got to Daressalaam about 8 this morning didn't get “in” til noon. Are anchored. We have our deck uncovered so stay down stairs. Sleep on deck tonight.

Sat. Mar. 23

Unloaded bags of meal all day. C's cold is worse. Men got to shore & got fruit. Mangoes, oranges & limes. Most III Class go on II Cl. deck but I don't because of the boys coughs. R. whoops awfully. Hope C. escapes. May get thro here by Wed.

Sun. Mar. 24

Cranes worked all day. Not much of a Sun. Services this eve on our deck. I didn't go up.

Mon. Mar. 25

Went ashore early & staid til most tea time. Had bad headache & went to bed early. Very dry & dusty on shore.

Tues. Mar. 26

Finished unloading. Leave in the morning. Very glad. Made crocheted “milk” cover from a pattern belonging to Miss Cairns. Cough seems worse.

Wed. Mar. 27

Left Daressalaam about 10 A.M. arrived here Zanzibar about 3 P.M. Cranes going tonight. Hope to get away tomorrow.

Thur. Mar. 28

Left Zanzibar about 5 P.M. Lovely smooth sailing. Doesn't seem possible this may be our last night on board. Not sorry.

Fri. Mar. 29

Landed about 10 A.M. Mr. A. went to Freretown at once found Mrs Downing & Miss Zimmerman there. Spent most all day in customs. So fine to get here to the home. Hotels are crowded. Some returned to the boat to stay. Can't get a train til Mon. A Mrs. Wittich is here – leaves on the “Cluny”.

Sat. Mar. 30

A nice day here at the home. Lots of chattering. Men busy all day. Very hot but cool breeze. Whooping cough in Kijabe school & measles. My cough is very annoying especially at night. Men sleep in one room & ladies in another.

Sun. Mar. 31

Attended Swahili services. Jno went to Mombasa Cathedral. Talked all P.M. with Miss Zimmerman. Went to Archdeacon Hampshire's this eve had a pleasant time. Mrs Andersen not feeling very well. My cough seems better.

And now! compared with last year. Tomorrow we will be on our way up country. God is good. It's been so fine to be here with Mrs. D. &Miss Z.

Mon Apr. 1

Got started from Mombasa at 12. At the last Summers couldn't be found. He got on at Kilindini. We women & children have a compartment. & the men with others. Weachters met us at Voi. Have our lunches with us.

Tues. Apr. 2

Got to Nairobi about 1:30. Staid at Victoria Hotel – Awful place. but nothing better could be found – all full. Bot a few cards & more lunch for tomorrow. Miss Stalker is nervous in her room alone so I sleep with her. Many drunk.

Wed. Apr. 3 KIJABE

Got here about 1:30. Lovely to be here again. Miss Stalker went on, of course. Are at the school. Andersen's at Downings & saw Mrs Hurlburt & met many new ones. Very dry – no gardens.

Thur. Apr. 4

Trunks came up today & we unpacked. Are getting settled. R. has been in bed all day. His foot is very painful. C. & we two at Hurlburts for supper. Planted bulbs there. Vacation this week for children.

Fri. Apr. 5

Jno in bed most all day. Not at all well. Mulungit & Tagi called. Mazaria washed clothes. All dry. & ready to iron. Rained hard last night. Parcel that came just as we left was sent over today.

Sat. Apr. 6

Mazaria & I ironed. Jno still in bed all day. R's feet are very painful. I put hot cloths on. Earl & Kenneth were over. Mr. D. called. Found what some of my duties are.

Sun. Apr. 7

Jno felt able to get up today. Led P.M. meeting. Many out. Communion. Nice day.... Breakfast of bread & cocoa in rooms... Tomorrow life begins in earnest. R's foot opened today. is easier.

Mon. Apr. 8

Have to look after laundry work. Also take one hour of Arithmetic. and boys in music. Guess I'll manage to keep busy. Children meet after break. & supper. We workers at noon.

Tues. Apr. 9

Boys ironed. Jno went to station early. Mulungit came this P.M. & they dug over garden. Jno also fixed a baby organ so it can be used to practice on. Boys are getting interested.

Wed. Apr. 10

Wash day for linens. Prayermeeting this eve. Helpt Raymond & Beth with Arith. Mr. Andersen led meeting.

Thur. Apr. 11

Miss Kolachny's day off. Miss Slater has sewing after recess. Went to Downings this eve. Visited with Andersen's. Letter from Mama written Feb. 3.

Fri. Apr. 12

Jno started fixing up an old organ & wanted a bellows. & went around to find one & landed at Hetzes for dinner. Then heard our boxes were here & we went down & got them. 2 are missing. Ward boxes. Letter from Mr Barnett.

Sat. Apr. 13

Unpacked some. Didn't unpack everything. All looks fine. Do hope we can get the other boxes. Andersen is getting his up today. Putting in store room. Rain again.

Sun. Apr. 14

Quiet day. Mr Summers led P.M. meeting. Miss Kolachney went to Kikuyu S. School. I kept an eye on the children. Rainy. Miss Wharton here to supper. Went to see Mrs. Hurlburt after supper.

Mon. Apr. 15

Rather rainy but got the wash dry. Mrs. H. wanted me to be there for opening the Camp box. I was. Very nice. Mostly playthings. Had tea. Mrs. H. not at all well but better today.

Tues. Apr. 16

Lovely day. Ironing on. Jno went to Station. Got Aunt A's letter off. Started one to Hurlburt. Don't know what to do about our stuff in Congo.

Wed. Apr. 17

Unpacked W.M.S. box from Baracah. Mrs. Hurlburt & Mrs. Andersen came & helpt. The girls are so pleased with their things. Earl, just to tease Jno took the spring from the organ & hid it & no one can find it. Prayerm't'g tonight.

Thur. Apr. 18

Miss Kolachney's rest day. I baked biscuits for dinner. R's foot is very swelled and painful. Will be to a head by morning, I think. Finished Mrs DeGroff's today. Jno has word the Official at Reserve is away.

Fri. Apr. 19

Day of prayer. R. staid in bed all day. Opened the gathering this eve. Expect Waechters up tomorrow eve.

Sat. Apr. 20

Waechters came. Also Ronnie Hoyle a C.M.S. workers boy. Miss Slater baked a cake for me. Alfred & Eddie helpt make the icing which was like taffy. Jno & I went to Hetzes. Played crokinole. A few home letters. Summers left for Congo.

Sun. Apr. 21

Pleasant day. Mr Waechter led. Very helpful talk. Miss Zimmerman came back from coast. R. up some today but his foot isn't healing fast. Another seems to be starting.

Mon. Apr. 22

Big wash. Boys didn't get done til late. Kenneth has bad foot & didn't come to school. Miss Slater's rest morning. Baked corn bread for dinner.

Tues. Apr. 23

Raymonds foot is rather painful again. Lovely sunny day. Went to Mrs. Hurlburts. Gave Propst boys lessons. John has permission to go.

Wed. Apr. 24

R. in bed. Bad night last night. Mulungit brot C. a tiny paa. runs around in their room. Prayermt'g tonight. Mr. McK. here all night. Jno getting things ready.

Thur. Apr. 25

Jno & all left this morning about 8:30. Spose we could see 'em on the plain with a strong glass. Telegram that Hoyles are coming tomorrow to spend the night.

Fri. Apr. 26

Mr. & Mrs. Hoyle & little Irene came. Very nice people. May stay a few days. Class in Kikuyu lang. had exam today. Miss Slater had an interesting time.

Sat. Apr. 27

Worked all day but don't see that I accomplished much. Finished Cora's letter this eve. R's foot is healing slowly. Mr Waechter put up swings for boys & girls. They do enjoy them.

Sun. Apr. 28

Mr. Waechter led again. Very good. Pleasant day. Mrs Myers not very well.

Mon. Apr. 29

Washed big lot. Miss Slater's rest day but she is right down sick. Has been in bed all day. Thinks it's sun. Mr. Waechter & Mr Hoyle went to Nairobi. Mr H. staid.

Tues. Apr. 30

Boys were very slow about the ironing. Played phono this eve for Lucile & Jessie Wilson. Mrs. Andersen came too.

And R's teeth aren't “fixed” yet. [One yr. ago this day F. & J. had dispute over Raymond's teeth.] Dr Kantz thot it would be quite easy but R. doesn't take enough interest, I fear. Have been here almost at just a month. Seems very short.

Wed. May 1

Mr. Hoyle returned. Led prayerm't'g. She sang. Miss S. feeling better again. I haven't felt well today but better this eve. Found a lovely May basket on the dining table this eve – filled with cookies from Miss Betty.

Thur. May 2

Miss Kolachny took Miss Slater's sewing class. Mrs. Hoyle helpt. Wrote some letters. Lots more ought to be done. Bill for board from Mr. Bell. Rs. 84.- New boy has come in Ikenya's place.

Fri. May 3

A gift of Rs. 50 for the children. Thot to use some for Bibles. Spoke to Mr Hoyle & he wants to send some as a gift. Letters from father & Bess. Wrote mama. Cleaned room changed bed again.

Sat. May 4

Plenty of work. Moving hen house today. Hoyles left this P.M. Miss Kolachny went to station. Letters from Lora. Warren went to Camp in South Carolina on Feb. 6. God keep him.

Sun. May 5

Jno didn't get back as he thot he might. Finished Warren's letter. Lucille & Jessie Wilson for supper. Good talk in P.M. meeting. Communion. Raymond sleeps with Ronnie.

Mon. May 6 *

Washed all day none dry but what dried at the stove. Rain all day. Wonder where Jno is. Miss S. & I were going to Miss Zimmermans but it rained too much. Wrote Miss Gosling. Misst dinner. Lying down with a pain.

Tues. May 7

While I was ironing before dinner Miss Slater called & when I went Jno had come back. Brings a good report. Hope to all go during vacation.

Wed. May 8

Miss S's rest day. Early this morn both laundry boys came in for excuses to leave & the clothes soaking. Macaria & another did it then. Some got dry before rain – awful heavy – a few dried in the wind afterward. many are still damp. Letter from Cora. Opened shoe box- disappointed in several. Prayerm't'g.

Thur. May 9

Ironing was done by noon for I had folded things. Just one boy too. Seems to know a little.

Fri. May 10

Tried to help some with cleaning. Neither boy has come back yet. Jno has an idea he ought to go back again next week Mulungit & Tagi are anxious.

Sat. May 11

Water from the hill wont come so have to heat bath water on stoves. Rainy every P.M. Went to Hetzes awhile. Parcel from Lora. Lovely cover yoke etc.

Sun. May 12

Miss Slater insisted we stay in bed so we did. Lovely quiet time. then a walk to Mrs H's. saw garden etc. Mr Herdman led meeting.

Mon. May 13

Still no wash boys. Macaria helpt. I got up with sickheadache, better this eve. Wash got quite dry. Mr Green goes with Jno. Am glad.

Tues. May 14

Jno went over to see Mr Hetz this A.M. & got into all sorts of difficulties. Taking men from station etc etc. Felt rather “blue” but guess 'twill work out alright. Helpt with ironing. Mrs. D. may be home on Sat.

Wed. May 15

Letter from Cora. They finally got off. Mr. Green too. Hope they'll have no trouble but they weren't a very promising lot of porters. Miss Slater went to Escarpment. Mr. Stover led meeting this eve.

Thur. May 16

Mrs Hurlburt & Agnes came to hear the phono. Had tea & nice talk. Note from Jno saying Mulungits Nyakeiro wouldn't go along & her father wont let her come to the hill. Shall try to send food.

Fri. May 17

Day of Prayer. Good meetings. Sent for Nyakeiro to come tomorrow. but feared she wouldn't. Miss Zimmerman said she saw her today & she will come. Want to meet Mrs D. too tomorrow P.M.

Sat. May 18

Sewed C. a pair of pants from J's old ones. Cleaning done to perfection. Met Mrs. D. rode down with Lucile & Mrs D. & I walked back.

Sun. May 19

Miss Slater staid in bed. About 10:30 I went with cuttings Mrs D brot, to Mrs H. to put them in. Staid there to dinner. Had nice talk. Mr Guilding led P.M. meeting.

Mon. May 20

Mr. McK. has been here since Sat. convalescing. His boy helpt ours with the washing. No rain all got quite dry. Very nice. Nyakeiru came to try on her dress. She may come to stay with Miss Z. til we go to reserve. I give her food.

Tues. May 21

Ironing done early. Put clothes all away too. I did starched things. Ithaka works fast.

Wed. May 22

Mr. Downing led prayer meeting. I got cross with the wash boys today then received my punishment. dropt my glasses & broke one lens. Also spilled all the cream for supper.

Thur. May 23

Ironing done early. New boy on the job. Got tired waiting for Wanyiki to return. Mrs D. , Mrs H & Mrs Andersen came for P.M. Gathered flowers & had tea. or postum.

Fri. May 24

Dr. Arthur called. Is staying over Sun. Flour came today. Hope to get mine too soon. Pigs rooted up our garden awful. Mr Guilding working at the sewer.

Sat. May 25

Dr Arthur took supper here & had victrola & pleasant evening. Miss K & all children worked in garden. Men came from reserve. No food. Brot letters.

Sun. May 26

All went to hear Dr. Arthur at native service. I staid with children. He spoke at P.M. meeting. Started letter to John. Money matters trouble.

Mon. May 27

Wash most done by noon. Boys work well. Mr McK & Grace came back. Miss Cable went to see Dr Jones. Says just needs rest.

Tues. May 28

A man goes to Jno tomorrow. Have box packed. Ironing done by noon. called on Mrs D. & then Mrs H called up & asked us there for tea. Took shoes & corset to Mrs D.

Wed. May 29

A letter from Lo this eve told of Oneida's sudden death. Doesn't seem at all possible. Measles was the cause. Died Mar. 15. Hard for Grandpa & ma. We'll surely all meet soon.

Thur. May 30 *

Mrs Hurlburt sent word I was to come & go for lunch up stream. Had such a nice time. Had tea there too. Harry showed us where the many springs were that make up the stream. Agnes here all night with Miss Elder. They sleep in my bed.

Fri. May 31

Man sent to Masai Wed. should get there today. Exercises at native school. Mr. McKenrick has decided to keep house in the little house near the chapel. Don't feel well- headache. Worked at Nyakeiru's dress. Old letters from home. Nothing about Oneida.

In some ways May has been uneventful. We are praying & expecting the Lord to get our money to us by the time school is out. Hoping to take Alfred & Eddie along. Are told by others that Nyakeiru wont go to Masai but the Lord can make her willing.

Sat. June 1

Staid in bed. Miss S. brot breakfast. Hunting fleas during the night, so didn't sleep well. Headache this morning. Sewed some. Fitted Nyakeiru's dress. She took corn to make more hominy.

Sun. June 2

Every body went to native service. I staid with the children. Communion today.

Mon. June 3

Wonder if Jno is remembering his birthday. Washing done in good time. Lois Waechter is not well. Acts like dysentery.

Tues. June 4

Tagi came with a letter from Jno. Mrs. Downing spent the day here and the evening in my room haring the phono. She visited the school all day. Took her home. Mr. D. asked me to lead prayermtg.

Wed. June 5

I led prayermtg. First meeting I ever led at Kijabe. Lois still quite sick. Miss Cable had a fever again feels very discouraged.

Thur. June 6

This A.M. about 11 Jno & Mr. Green came in. Got here in good time. Mr. Hetz cabled for the money yesterday. May the Lord bring it soon. Talked & planned. Made out program for last day.

Fri. June 7

Repacked trunks. Lois still pretty sick. Got enamel ware from Mr. Green. Wrote Mattie. Received Miss Elders wedding invitation for next Wed. Sewed at khaki.

Sat. June 8

Baked cookies & helpt in kitchen. Sewed some. Miss Harris came this eve. Lois seems to get weaker. Miss Kolachny has taken cold & can't speak aloud.

Sun. June 9

Did kitchen work. Eddie & Alfred helpt. Lois seems worse. Staid for prayer after P.M. meeting. I took S.S. too. All to Downing for supper & evening. Very pleasant time.

Mon. June 10

Lois seemed better today. Have sent for Mr. Waechter to come. John arranged for a wagon to come Fri if possible. Finished Aunt Lorene's letter. Children are making things for Miss Elder.

Tues. June 11

Mr. Waechter came on goods train. We went to Miss Zimmerman's for lunch. Ronnie too and to Hurlburts for supper & for the evening. Nice time at both places.

Wed. June 12

Great day. The wedding went off fine. Agnes & Mr Bell stood up too. Lunch here for 23. Children had sandwiches etc in sitting room. Table decorations were yellow & purple. Hetzes for supper. Kendall's got away on sly but the men found out they were in Seeligs house & charivaried them after prayermtg.

Thur. June 13

Decorating & excitement all day. Lois is moved into little sitting room. Program this eve was very nice. Most every body out for it. Erik B. was so funny. Baked 13 loaves of bread.

Fri. June 14

Hustled to pack then found they wouldn't come til this eve. Wagon is almost loaded. Hope to get off early in the morning. Tagi & cattle (42 head) & natives went today. Overtake them tomorrow. Called on Miss Cable.

Sat. June 15

Got to R.R. Station about 8:30. Went on along the road & waited 2 hrs. for the ox wagon. Had lunch & came on to foot of ridge from Longonot. Got to bed about 9:30. Had sweets & peanuts to eat also dates.

Sun. June 16

Very, very dusty. Not much like Sunday today. I forgot & crocheted. Got to Quarantine Camp about 9 A.M. Mr. Taylor served tea. Tagi's crowd gone on to water. We left about 4:30 & wagons came after dark. Traveled til about 9. Camped at Wieke. Sprinkled a little.

Mon. June 17

Up at daylight but ox drivers are slow. We walked all way up hill. Saw where Tagi had camped last night & finally overtook him at Ndulele. At noon wagons stopt part way down hill. I saw & waited to know what to do. Eddie & I went back & got bread & bacon & overtook Jno & boys. Waited til 5 for wagons. Very slow.

Tues. June 18 Siabei finally.

Thot the drivers would start in good time so Jno & I went on. at first stream we waited about 4 hrs. for them. Boys got hungry & ate all the cake. We lunched & came on all walking. Got here about 5:20. Wagons here about 6:30. Mulungit gave us tea.

Wed. June 19

Some busy day. Hauled all stuff up hill with Tagi's wagon & oxen. Then fixed up beds & packed things away. Pretty well settled in tent. Jno planted things in garden – cuttings etc. Mulungit has much cut but none planted. Burned brush.

Thur. June 20

Alfred, Eddie & Claudon went to Gov't Boma. back at 3:30. Have nettle greens for supper. Good. Jno & Raymond cutting slim poles for house. Mended some. Piled brush. Burn tomorrow night. Week ago tonight concert.

Fri. June 21

Hominy for dinner. Corn mush & dried apples for supper. Still have half loaf of bread. Jno started putting sticks on wall of house. Looks fine. Nyakieru washed this A.M. Big bonfire this eve.

Sat. June 22

Gathered & boiled nettles for tomorrow. Mulungit butchered ox. Sent us some tenderloin. Throat is sore today. Threatening rain this eve. Made some jam roly poly.

Sun. June 23

Wouldn't care if I had a dish of ice cream today. Had a fine rain last night slow & steady. Jno & I walked out to Masai kraal this A.M. Sun gave me headache. Everybody drying damp blankets today.

Mon. June 24

Jno & Alfred worked at house. Boys & I hauled stone all A.M. Cocoa at 10. That helps. Claudon & I planted forget-me-nots. Worked at brush. Cloudy & threatening most all day.

Tues. June 25

Miss Harlands birthday. Hauled stones all A.M. Jno cutting sticks for house. A letter from Mr. Taylor asking for permit – also said his boy had supper ready for 10. & we didn't wait.

Wed. June 26 (Kenneths birthday.)

Jno & boys carried sticks first thing. from 3:30 to 5. & I hauled stones. Nyakeiru washed for me. Not all dry yet. Tagi went to Ndulele for food for them. I wanted some peanuts but he couldn't get any. Big bon fire.

Thur. June 27

Wrote several letters. Boys burned brush in garden. Jno & Alfred worked at wall. Cloudy spells each day. A nice shower would be good for garden. Tried to light the bonfire this eve but it wouldn't light.

Fri. June 28 *

Worked at house all day. Boys pounded stones for floor. Have decided not to put mud in now but leaves with the carpets down. Burned brush tonight. Very cloudy still but no rain.

Sat. June 29

4 boys went to Gov't Station. Back about 2. Jno got tired working at the house. Went to the garden awhile then cut at path along river to palm trees. Very misty & damp all day.

Sun. June 30

Wish I could buy peas from some one today again. [Previous year's entry about buying and canning peas in Hatboro, Pa.] Jno went to find some kraals but those we found last Sun. had gone and he got lost & didn't come back til 4:30. Jno playing this eve. Others reading.

At close of last month things looked rather unsettled. Now all is fine. We do not yet know whether our money has come but all the boys & families are here. and all seem to be happy too. We are. House is getting on. Will get in this week.

Mon. July 1

It's getting to be some question where to find variety along the eating line. Hauled stones & worked at house. Headache most every day.

Tues. July 2

Worked hard at house. Boys cut & carried sticks this morning. this P.M. we carried leaves in onto the floor. Will try to get in tomorrow. Planning a little jaunt for the Fourth.

Wed. July 3

We are in. Pretty well packed. Claudon on the trunks. The 3 boys in the tent. The tent fly is the roof here. In two more weeks we should have the other room ready. Eddie cut his toe with the ax.

Thur. July 4

Packed up lunch of cold boiled beef & rice cakes & cookies & potatoes to roast in the coals. Went down river cut our way along. Ate in a very pretty spot. Could hardly get out. Tried fishing but no bite. Alfred not feeling well. I neither. Big bon fire to celebrate. Found McDonell had been here.

Fri. July 5

Boys & Jno in garden all A.M. P.M. put leaves above ceiling. Bathed. All feel better again today. Victrola tonight after working at brush. Hill is gradually getting cleared.

Sat. July 6

Eddie & I washed. Alfred & boys hauled stones. Eddie complained of not feeling well. This eve has temp of 104. Acts like malaria.

Sun. July 7

Eddie staid in as temp was 100 this morning & 104 again this eve. Wrote letters. Took walk to garden & to see boys houses & visited with Kariuki. Wrote Robin letters. Jno to Fletcher & Hearing & Doing.

Mon. July 8

Windy. Eddie's temp higher than ever. Between 102 & 105 all day. Sweat him this P.M. & it came down some. Getting weak & feels miserable. Rained & blew last night. We got pretty wet so am drying things today.

Tues. July 9

Windy. Eddie seems better. Almost normal this morning but 103 this eve. The Lord has undertaken we are asking Him to heal. Set a trap for leopard last night with a sheep M. brot for Rs 5. but no leopard came around. Rain again but no wind. Getting letters off. 700 cattle camped below the hill tonight.

Wed. July 10

Very windy. Wonder how long these winds continue. Helpt Jno saw a big cedar for shingles. Tagi hauled up blocks. Alfred went to Boma. Eddie not so well again today. Can't understand.

Thur. July 11

Wind – sunny. Eddie's temp was almost normal today but this eve was 105 ½. highest ever. Lions around last night. Sawed some today. Jno cut shingles. finished cutting the brush around the hill. R. sleeps in here tonight so Alfred can have his bed.

Fri. July 12

Very cloudy & threatening this morning but cleared. dark clouds this eve. Eddie was almost normal this morning but 104 this eve. Seems so strange what can cause it. Tagi killed an ox. Sent some for us. Washed some clothes.

Sat. July 13

Plenty of wind. Eddie remains about the same. About 1 P.M. temp goes up til 5:30 or so then comes down again. Have done all we know. & pray the Lord to do the rest. A Mr. Clarke is camped below the hill. Called just before dark. Will send a load of rice in morning. Wrote Mrs. Wilcke. Daddy says next year we'll have another water melon.

Sun. July 14

Jno took a long walk. Had S.S. with Alfred & children. Eddie the same. Sent a man who brot the rice but evidently dropt it into the river as 'twas wet. R. sleeps in here so Alfred has his bed. Read.

Mon. July 15

Very windy. Eddie no better so sent boys to the boma for quinine and other things. Kariuki's little Daudi is sick too. Waited supper for boys. Telegram from Agnes saying wedding to be Thurs. Letters from Miss Harland & Dr. N.G. card from Mrs. D. Kariuki had sick cow so killed her. Offered us meat.

Tues. July 16

Eddie's temp. didn't go quite so high as yesterday. Gave him 15 gr. also Daudi some. Tagi brot bone for soup for Eddie. Washed some. Mended. put up net. Mosquitos around. Went to boys houses 3 times today; almost a safari. Have about decided to send home for sewing machine.

Wed. July 17

Eddie's temp. staid below 101 all day. Gave 20 gr. Think we have it broken. Nyakeiru complains of lame shoulders & headache. Claudon also has taken cold. Burned brush tonight toward the valley so we can see out up Siabei [river].

Thur. July 18

Yes & today he [Raymond] is 10 yrs. Still less possible! Jno, Alfred & the two boys went for picnic. I staid with Eddie. His temp. staid down today but not so well as yesterday. I carried lots of brush & cleaned up around the house. Burned all the bon fires tonight. Biggest ever. Wonder if Agnes got married alright.

Fri. July 19

Eddie is normal today. Jno cut sticks all day. Hope to get Kikuyu to help tomorrow & get some wall made. Got out the boys clothes & marked and fixed 'em up. Still more to do.

Sat. July 20

Two Kikuyu came from boys kraal to help. Got two sides part way up. Eddie up today sat with us for dinner & supper. Kikuyu workman sick. Sent to Boma for meat but got none. Will we be at Kijabe next Sat?

Sun. July 21

One of Kikuyu workmen very sick. Quiet day. Had S.S. lesson with our boys. Tagi started to the kraal near the Boma but soon came back with half dozen strangers following him. No doubt they got a meal but pretty sure to get some Gospel too.

Mon. July 22 *

Took clothes to stream. Nyakeiru not well so I did it myself. The sick Kikuyu died in night. Jno & boys dug grave & buried him. Mulungit went early with corn to get ground. Not back yet. Eddie feels better. Walked around quite a bit.

Tues. July 23

Washed sweaters & kahki. Mulungit returned about 10 A.M. White man & wife camped here last eve. She called. From near German border. Jno & Alfred watched til 9 last night for buck in garden but none came. Tonight we heard them & they waited but none came. Lovely moonlight. Baked & fried for safari tomorrow.

Wed. July 24

Got started about 10. Eddie walked til lunch at last stream. Wheel went over Kikuyu's little toe. cut but no bones broken. Camping at Ndulele. Got to camp 5:30. Claudon walked all way. 3 boys in Tagi's tent. Wairiamu, Kariuki's wife, in bath. C. on ground.

Thur. July 25

Started about 6:30. Got to Wieke about 5:30. Had breakfast abt 9. & rested til 1. Cl. walked but got a sore heel toward last. My feet quite tired also. Jno's sore on top of toes. blisters. Fear the water will be very dirty here. Can't even get any for cattle tonight. must go early morning.

Fri. July 26

C. rode with Eddie. Got to Quarantine abt 11:30. Mr. Taylor not there. His boy got tea for us. Put up tent & had lunch before leaving on Indian outfit at 2:30. Stopt at 6:30. Heavy rain. Had supper & at 9:30 started & rode til 12. to the end of Longonot ridge.

Sat. July 27

Up at 6:30 & on. Break. just below hills at 9. Wagons not going on til 3 so all but Eddie walked up to Kijabe. Jno paid up & tip. Eddie came later. Found when we got here that Miss Kolachny had returned from Mombasa on goods train & her mind is deranged. Is at Hospital Dr Jones is here. All people from Kikuyu. Conf. up this P.M. Many here. Mr. Morris too. Mr. H. worn out.

Sun. July 28

Jno's feet very sore so stays in bed mostly. Mr D. & Mr. H. here abt noon – proposing our staying here & Dr Allens etc going to Siabei. Considering it. Mr. H. spoke helpfully at 4. and this eve a mtg at Mrs Myers echoes from Conf. We went. Dr. Jones is very hopeful for Miss K. but must have perfect quiet for 2 mos.

Mon. July 29

Miss K. is alone at hospital. Miss Lovell waits on her. School started. Lucile & Agnes do most. Mrs. Kendal will help & thus they get on nicely without me so we are hoping to go on back for the present. Agnes had tea party at 4 for all women. Nice time saw wedding dress. Waechters aren't back. Ruth Raynor & Arthur Ford are new. Everything went very well today considering.

Tues. July 30

This A.M. Jno saw Hurlburt & our plan for going to Siabei now to return at end of term, fine! Then asked me to go for dinner & then said I was to stay & Jno , Miss Simpson & the Guildings to go over there. Don't like it much. but guess 'twill be alright. Mr. & Mrs D. called this eve til late. School goes pretty fine. I'll take more if I stay.

Wed. July 31

This morn. early Mr. D. called up that I was to go to Masai. So I'm better pleased. Guildings go up to their tribe. Prayerm't'g this eve. Mr. H. led so fine. Are taking up life of Christ in Bible study hour. Acts in morning devotions. Have sent for Miss Simpson.

Can't say as above. [This date 1917; shattered hopes of leaving for Kenya.] A good many things have been taking place just the last few days. Certainly never dreamed at end of June of conditions as they are now. Man proposes God disposes. No doubt by another month we'll have school going at Siabei.

Thur. Aug. 1

Letter from Miss Simpson saying she can't come til Mon. sick. Hope she will get here then as Mr. Smith is holding the wagon until Tues. for us. Bells take charge here & Seeligs, Kendals & Bells have Kijabe affairs to see to. Lots of trouble with money matters. Guess we'll get a little tho.

Fri. Aug. 2

Quite a number left on train this morning for Nairobi. Mr Hurlburt, Downing & Hetz to visit stations. Tagi to see Dr Jones about eye which he hurt since here. At Mrs H's for tea. Had a talk with Miss Lovell this eve. Poor Miss Kolachny is still quite deranged mentally. Agnes took most all work today. Jno had sort of a faint & knocked things over pretty badly.

Sat. Aug. 3

And today we had another. Mrs. H came to Downings while I was there. Had tea together. Paul went to Congo. She is lonely. Got quite a lot of potatoes today to take along. Everybody very busy getting straightened. Bells have Miss S's room. She has Kathryn's. Bank holiday on Mon. so don't know what to do about going to Nairobi.

Sun. Aug. 4

Mr Guilding had service. Mr. McK. had communion service. Claudon in my bed all day. Has two boils so it's hard to sit down. Jno in part of the time too. Miss S. had S.S. then went for a walk. Jno goes to N. tomorrow. Will get what he can.

Mon. Aug. 5

Miss Simpson came this eve. Is eager to go to Masai now. Jno got most everything I wanted. Pretty busy all day baking bread & roasting peanuts & making butter & tonight printing charts. Took lunch with Mrs H. Harry gave me lots of onions & lemons. Made syrup to put in water to drink.

Tues. Aug. 6

The mission wagon had to go twice with loads. Transport wagon loaded very heavy. All walked. Camped at the point. Walked abt 2 hrs. in the dark. Miss the boys but not so lonely since Miss S. is along.

Wed. Aug. 7

Up early & off. Miss S. rode most of the way to Quarantine Camp. Mr. Taylor not there. Tagi soon came with his wagon. He walked from Kijabe to Wieke yesterday. Abt 32 mi. We camped where Wieke road joins the other. From Quarantine to there was new to me. Heard lions last night & saw many tracks this morning. Put necessaries on Tagis wagon. Other wagons are here too tonight.

Thur. Aug. 8

First water we used tasted of leaves used as stopper. Next tin tasted awful of tar. Started up hill before daylight. Ate breakfast some distance beyond nettle bed. Got to Ndulele about 1 P.M. bot few things. & left them for wagons to bring. Camped at 1^st stream. Nice to have good water. Jno very tired.

Fri. Aug. 9

Home again! Very nice to get here. Jno & I got in about 8. Mulungit saw us & got tea. Kariuki gave us milk & pan cake. Very nice. Tagi got in about 9. Everything here alright. Animals have eaten lots in garden. Lion killed Mulungits bull and leopard almost got Tagi's calf. Planted what we brot. Many things remind us of the boys. Makes me feel rather lonely for them. God keep them.

Sat. Aug. 10

Miss S. has tent pitched back in among trees. Wagons got here about 6: with loads. 'Twas dark before we got all up. and now how we are packed in here. Just a path from the door to the organ past the bed. Every corner & side filled up.

Sun. Aug. 11

Went down to boys kraal about 10 A.M. Had Kikuyu service & planned for future Sundays. Boys want to go to kraals on Sun AM so we have Masai services at 3 P.M. & they have Kikuyu services after supper. Wrote to the children.

Mon. Aug. 12

School children came at 9. Mulungit took Nyakeiru to Boma to have tooth pulled. Manzari kept George so couldn't be in school so had only 4. Olduboi is the only Masai. Hope that will change before long. Have chapel services at 11 for every one. Mulungit brot some mail. Jno has little fever. feels punk.

Tues. Aug. 13

No fever today. School again & all 6 here. Miss Simpson still repacking. Potatoes in bath of tent makes it rather crowded for her. Letter from Gribble saying we should use that fly of his tent that came with us from Capetown. And how glad we will be for it.

Wed. Aug. 14

School as usual. Miss S takes the 3 beginners. I take the other 3. How well I remember a year ago. Wish I had a chance to ask R. if he remembers. [Raymond's profession of salvation.] John had no return of fever tho his feet are sore again for he wore those shoes on Sun. that he wore on safari. Feet pain considerable tonight.

Thur. Aug. 15

Yesterday the workmen cut all brush in upper part of garden. Changes things so much. Today did almost nothing til 3 when Jno went down then sawed down big trees. Mwangi went to Boma. Brot lots of foreign mail. Mama's letter telling of Oneida's death. Several birthday letters.

Fri. Aug. 16

A week of school past already. Jno's feet trouble him a lot. Mulungit returned from Ndulele. Jno gave him the troublesome shoes.

Sat. Aug.17

Washed. Asked the women but all are sick or busy so did it myself. Mwangi helpt. Started letters home. Jno working on this side garden today. Cutting so much makes a big change.

Sun. Aug. 18

Miss S & I had S.S. at the kraal. Boys went to Boma for meetings. Were to have 3 P.M. meeting but boys didn't return in time. Evening service in Tagi's house.

Mon. Aug. 19

Very cold & cloudy all day. Intended to spend PM in bed but Kariuki came with mail so got up. Letter from the boys & papers from home. Wanjiku came to cut out & sew for Etta & Ithera.

Tues. Aug. 20

Etta's 2^nd birthday. New boy in school. Olduboi went to his kraal for few days to get wife. Ndirongu goes to Kijabe tomorrow. We sent letters. I wrote the boys. Jno almost finished cutting brush & trees. May work at house.

Wed. Aug. 21

School. Jno still in garden today but will let the rest go now & get at school & our house. Prayermt'g at Tagi's. Will all work at school building tomorrow. Sewed at Ithera's dress. Wanjiku came.

Thur. Aug. 22

“Community day” like the LH Journal tells about. Women & all came. We cut & carried brush. Got 3 sides done. Tomorrow hope to get roof on. All ate here. Corn mush & peanuts & tea. Some of boys ate so much got sick. How they were teased. Wrote Dr. Newberry tonight.

Fri. Aug. 23 *

Another community day. Sent Mwangi for letters etc. One from Mrs. Barnett & things from Indian shop. Wrote Mrs. Barnett tonight. Bathed & soaked clothes for washing tomorrow.

Sat. Aug. 24

Boys worked at school. Jno in garden. Fired brush & wind blew so it burned part the fence & went up into the woods. Feared a forest fire but it didn't go very far. Washed & baked & made candy for Berthas birthday. First rhubarb sauce.

Sun. Aug. 25

Bertha's birthday. S.S. at 10 – in school house. Meeting at 4 in Masai & in Kikuyu at 7. Not feeling well today. Too lazy I think. Wrote some. Read some. Running water into garden. Potato salad for supper.

Mon. Aug. 26

Only Kikuyu children at school. Mwangi went for letters. One from Miss Slater but none from the boys. Agnes didn't get them looked over. Miss S. hopes to send a man today.

Tues. Aug. 27

Miss Simpson & I planning to go to the Boma on Thurs. Mulungit wa going to Kijabe tomorrow but didn't return from getting his permit. Olduboi not back yet. Wrote home.

Wed. Aug. 28

Olduboi returned. Two porters in today from Kijabe with Miss S's spring & tub & our canvas of Gribbles and other things – butter & cookies. Bless Miss Slater's heart! Mulungit returned brot mail. E.A. Standard came dated Aug. 24.

Thur. Aug. 29

Bertha & I went to Boma. Every one very busy. Masai warriors have been asked to enroll as soldiers and they refused which means trouble. Two porters & Mulungit leave in morning also Kariuki. Talked long about war at the kraal this eve. Bertha got very tired today. Tagi taught school.

Fri. Aug. 30

Very windy. Heard today that soldiers are coming tomorrow to compel the warriors to enroll. Hope there wont be any trouble. Bathed & soaked clothes. Jno working at walls of this house. Wattle & mud.

Sat. Aug. 31

Washed. At least 400 soldiers past and many porters and canons too. Girls were washing at garden & thot they saw Masai warriors & came up here all trembling and frightened. Tagi & Olduboi have been at Boma all day. Olduboi killed ox.

This has been a month full of things – don't know just how good. At least the work here is started. May God help it to develop. What the future has is very uncertain tonight. May He work all out to the interest of His cause.

Sun. Sept. 1

Tagi returned this eve. Much excitement at the Boma. Massagondi has gone to the warriors, where they are hid in the woods and is to report tomorrow on what they will do. Services as usual all day. No headache. Read.

Mon. Sept. 2

Olduboi returned this eve from Boma says no word yet from warriors. Mulungit also returned. Kariuki went on to Kijabe. Tagi came for our first work in translation. Went pretty well. Jno burning brush in garden.

Tues. Sept. 3

All boys went to Boma. Olduboi went for his wife. Boys returned very sober & thotful for the warriors will listen to nothing but fight. God can work it all out to His glory. Made pair of rompers for George.

Wed. Sept. 4

Kariuki returned. Brot news of little Lewis Hetzes sudden death from croup on Aug. 26. God comfort the parents. Mulungit & Tagi went to kraals to get their cattle. Cut & partly made dress for Ithera. Papers in the mail. Sowed cabbage & tomato seed.

Thur. Sept. 5

Prayermeeting tonight 'cause boys weren't here last night. Tagi brot his cattle but warriors wouldn't let M. bring his. Tagi's father comes tomorrow. Sewed for Wanjiku today. Also made second pair of rompers for George. Sowed kabugabu seed.

Fri. Sept. 6

Sprinkle Mulungit had chapel services 2. Jno still in the garden- clearing the ground- burning brush. Looks like a different place. Tagi's father came. One of T's cows died. Finished sewing for Wanjiku. made a [End of entry.]

Sat. Sept. 7

Rain. From 2 to 2:30. Quite a shower. Boys went to Boma. Brot letter from Hetz. Washed hair this P.M. Mwangi sick for two days. Started work again today. Made a wash bench by the stream.

Sun. Sept. 8

Threatening. Boys said warriors & soldiers & white men are all feasting together. Trouble seems settled for the present. Jno & I went for a walk to see a spring. Did some crawling thro brush. Meeting this eve. Lions about.

Mon. Sept. 9

Wind – clouds – no rain. Washed. Nyakeiru helpt finish when Mwangi went to school. Planted potatoes. Leveled bad hump along stream. Sowed other seeds. Tagi came this P.M. for translation. Miss S. took school alone.

Tues. Sept. 10

Thunder but no rain. This morning after dishes were done & I told Mwangi he was to carry water he said he wanted to go home so I got letters ready & sent by him & I am boy. Planted fig tree where C. had podocarpus. Also more beans & peas.

Wed. Sept. 11

Mulungit went to get cattle. Lot of mail. Ake went for it. Letters from both homes & the boys. Not many at prayermeeting. Githutha is dissatisfied. Yesterdays shoveling down those humps along stream seemed too much.

Thur. Sept. 12

Today Githutha wanted Mwangi's work. & Jno said yes. I've been doing it & would just as soon keep on. Don't think he'll stick very long. Mulungit came back but they wouldn't let him have his cattle.

Fri. Sept. 13 *

Mulungit went again to see about getting his cattle, with interpreter from Boma. There has been fighting – 13 killed & many wounded. Tagi went with him so no translation today. Jno still working in garden. Has most brush burned.

Sat. Sept. 14

Very windy all day. Githutha went to station. brot 3 letters. Mulungit & Tagi haven't returned. Another mess of rhubarb is stewed. Lettuce in garden is coming up.

Sun. Sept. 15

Very windy again. Went for a long walk this P.M. to see a nice flat place that looked as tho twould be good for garden but it's too stony. Kariuki took meeting tonight. Boys aren't back yet. Very cloudy but no rain.

Mon. Sept. 16

Sent Githutha to Boma for meat. Boys got back. The warriors of their division are going to obey Gov't & not fight but go for training. M. got some of his cattle. Wrote on typewriter to boys. Sprinkled this P.M.

Tues. Sept. 17

Quite a nice shower. Washed. Men cutting big cedar for shingles. Tagi came for translation. Mulungit took ox to Boma to kill. Wrote letters home. Wish I could hear Mr Aldrich tonight.

Wed. Sept. 18

No rain – some wind. Githutha went to station. Paper came & letter from P.C. about M's cattle. Prayermeeting. Big fire above gardens. Two big trees fell. Cut out dress for Wanjiku.

Thur. Sept. 19 EXCITEMENT

This P.M. at teatime I took tea down to woods for Jno & found the fire in Mulungits garden got away & had burned the cattle kraal & all the houses of the boys. Every thing was saved but Tagi's beds & some food & a blanket. All sleeping in tents in gardens. Satan tries every way to discourage.

Fri. Sept. 20

Windy. Kariuki declares he is going to Kijabe with the first wagon. Jno & our men all working at the cattle kraal. Tagi had to take his father & cattle back as he (father) said the place is cursed. So he wont stay. Tagi has gotten back.

Sat. Sept. 21

Still more wind. Jno & men & everyone working at kraal. Got all big timber around. Githutha brot letters- from mama- and was to see about wagons but found none going soon. Sent for oil. shall try fried cakes. Baked two loaves of bread again. think I shall try making yeast next week.

Sun. Sept. 22 Rain

The boys all went to Boma & while there Kariuki heard a wagon was leaving so hurried back to get things ready. But they went by & didn't stop. He came up & had a talk with Jno & thinks he'll stay after all. Rained this eve so didn't go down for mtg.

Mon. Sept. 23 Shower

Githutha & I got wash done before school. Jno helping with boys houses. Have frame up of Kariuki's & part of Mulungit's. Didn't send to Boma for mail.

Tues. Sept. 24 No rain

John again helpt with houses. Now all are done – frame work. Boys are working hard. Jno let them take much of what he had cut for Miss S's house & our veranda.

Wed. Sept. 25

Letter from boys. John worked at garden fence. I put in sticks for beans & peas. Lima beans up nice. Went down for prayermtg & found boys all out hunting cattle. All were lost. Returned about 9:30 & went again later. Githutha went for mail & found wagon leaving. Goes too.

Thur. Sept. 26

Windy. Boys took gun & went in search of cattle. Found them about midnight. Herder says animal scared 'em but more likely he went to sleep. Had m't'g tonight at Tagi's tent. Jno started setting up stove today. Tagi has a bad foot.

Fri. Sept. 27

Very windy even at bedtime. Jno finished fixing the stove but the stove pipe wont stay on until roof is made. Have started bread with yeast. Made some yeast this week. Seems to work fine. Githutha left early yesterday. Took boys letter.

Sat. Sept. 28

Still windy. Worked at slabs for cook house roof. I baked bread. 'Twill go pretty well when there's a house over it. This P.M. dug at spring to raise it. Got part up 6 ft. or so. Tagi's foot still swelled & painful. up in the groin too.

Sun. Sept. 29

Shower. Ideal day. S.S. as usual & trip to garden. P.M. after nap wandered up the valley and scrambled around. Sort o' looking where best to make a road to Masagondis. Shower this eve. Meeting at Tagi's tent. Had cold supper. Opened marmalade. Wrote Mr C.E.H.

Mon. Sept. 30

Washed. Nyakeiru helpt. Kathinzi went to Boma for food. John & Mazaria work at cookhouse. Have frame up. Letters. Cora & Miss Slater. Tagi can't go to Kijabe his foot is too sore. How fast these months do fly.

Tues. Oct. 1        FMS letter Oct. 1, 1918

The record for this month could read something like this. Sept. 1 planted seeds. Sept. 10 up. Sept. 20 put sticks for vining beans. Sept. 30 all eaten off by animals. Not quite so bad but almost. Has been very windy. 2 or 3 showers thro the month. All dried up by noon.

Mulungit wanted to cut a road so he could take wagon to get grass and as Jno needs more poles he helped him. Worked all day. Wrote father. Tagi got a splinter 1 inch long out of his ankle. How it will heal.

Wed. Oct. 2

Awful wind. Jno & men cut sticks for cook house. Ake went for mail. Nothing from the boys. Planted out 14 tomato plants. Meeting at Tagis tent. Tried to rain.

Thur. Oct. 3

Such wind. Men went for string all A.M. P.M. put in sticks & some mud. Yeast pancakes this morning were alright. Baking bread tomorrow. Little more sprinkle. Olduboi returned.

Fri. Oct. 4

And now we are not “under inquiry” any longer. The Lord has been good to bring us here. May He forgive when we complain. Wrote Agnes to remember Miss Slaters birthday next Sun. the 13^th. Worked at cook house.

Sat. Oct. 5

Still windy & no rain. Mulungit went to Boma. Sent for some things. Miss S. got check cashed but M. made mistake of Rs 10. Will correct it tomorrow. Started Miss S house. PM. worked at path to stream.

Sun. Oct. 6

Hot & windy. Quiet day as usual. This P.M. Jno & I walked out the new ox road north & then East to the next river. Find it will be easy to irrigate a large piece. Jno is excited about it. 5 Kavirondo that Kariuki picked up are sleeping here tonight. Meeting at Tagi's tent.

Mon. Oct. 7        FMS letter Oct. 7, 1918

Washed. Nyakeiru helpt. Men at cookhouse walls. Said they wanted pay tonight but Jno told them not til Thur. was the time but he'd let them go on Wed. So we are getting all out of them we can.

Tues. Oct. 8

So windy. Men finished cook house walls. Getting letters written. Wrote Miss Thomas ths P.M. Wonder if our Congo boxes will get here tomorrow.

Wed. Oct. 9

Wind even at 9 P.M. Men worked at walls of bedroom. This eve Jno saw water buck & went for them but Ceke scared them as he came down the hill. Letter from Hetz asking if he should bring a bed if he comes to see us. Don't know if he is going to Congo or not. Looking hard for boxes. Jno said he had a presentiment they'd come today.

Thur. Oct. 10

No boxes yet. Paid the men last night. Jno feels rather independent now. Worked in the garden all day. Tagi went to Ndulele. Mulungit herded & found a herdman. They are abt ready to move into their houses. George has bad cold on chest.

Fri. Oct. 11

Felt very bum all day. Boxes came abt 6 P.M. Tagi brot up with cart. Didn't find all we hoped to and much is in terrible shape. Wet & moldy – old dirty boxes used for books & no paper. Glad for it all tho.

Sat. Oct. 12

Very hot. Put all clothes on line to dry then repacked trunks. Put all books into big box. Very tired & headache. Baked. Student lamp is here but no shade nor holder. Many of our best books missing. Shall write again abt them.

Sun. Oct. 13

Very windy. Went to garden found potatoes eaten again. Jno watched in the tree tonight for awhile. A young man called this P.M. while passing. Had tea. Will try to bring us some meat on Wed. Got letters ready to send with Mulungit. Goes early. Another remittance in & none for us. Why?

Mon. Oct. 14

Terribly windy. Nyakeiru helpt wash. Put in some Congo stuff. Jno in garden. Staid last night til 11:15 but saw nothing. Moon got too low then. Something was in again. Made two big fires tonight. Put trunks & several boxes into cook house. More room in here. Boys went very early. Kariuki too.

Tues. Oct. 15

Terribly windy. Our Sun. visitor came this eve with a “Tommy” [Thomson's gazelle] for us. Had a little fried for supper. Good. Made peanut butter. Jno in garden A.M. Shingles P.M. Put roof on cook house. Has more to put on. Wrote father. Nothing in garden last night.

Wed. Oct. 16

Not quite so windy. Jno not feeling very well. Letters. One from Mrs. Barnett with Rs. 50. We certainly thank God. 20 from them & 30 from Miss Hansen. Celebrated (a year ago) [Permission granted to enter Kenya.] by making ginger cookies & little cakes. Fire got into woods again but not bad.

Thur. Oct. 17

Wind – heavy clouds this eve. 130 oxen camped below the hill tonight. Chopped some wood & cleaned up one corner. Jno in garden AM & at shingles P.M. Studied language tonight. Mrs. Simpson's birthday.

Fri. Oct. 18

Very windy again. Sowed seeds in hot bed. Work as usual. Worked at repairing garden fence where little animals have been getting thro. Wrote Miss Hansen.

Sat. Oct. 19

Awfully windy all day. Bread not good. Too heavy but baked better. Jno planted potatoes. This P.M. improved path to the spring. Wrote Mrs. Andersen & Miss Harland. Bathed.

Sun. Oct. 20

Tried hard to rain but sprinkle only. Tagi took letters & brot some. Sent Miss Harlands & received one from her. Went for a long walk. Looking where to make an easy road to Boma. Meeting tonight with Tagi & Olduboi only & Kikuyu women.

Mon. Oct. 21

Wind. Nyakeiru helpt wash. Jno helpt Tagi & Olduboi dig ditch to drain upper swamp & irrigate their gardens. Aug. Journal came yesterday. July hasn't come yet. Wrote Miss Stumpf.

Tues. Oct. 22

Very windy. Clouds this eve. Jno helpt boys this A.M., P.M. worked at shingles til 4 then to the garden where we had supper. Wanjiku came with clothes to fix up. Wrote Bertha Goodman. Baked awful bread again. Yeast is no good. Must make new. Wish I could now. [Line indicates “could now” can pears, like this date previous year.]

Wed. Oct. 23

Cloudy this eve. Some officers came this morning to see about fixing up a camping place here for soldiers. Decided to go where the old kraal was. Rather hope they'll change & stay on west of Siabei. Kariuki returned. Mulungit comes tomorrow. Foreign mail. Nice lot of letters.

Thur. Oct. 24

Wind & no clouds. Mulungit returned. Not well. Brot 1 ½ lb. of butter & ½ lb. cheese from Miss Slater. A few cookies. She's a brick. Supper in the garden. Helpt Jno cut poles for more rafters. Tagi took ox to Boma & killed. We get Rs 2. of it. M. also brot 4 eggs from a Masai woman at Ndulele who wants to come here later.

Fri. Oct. 25

Cloudy this eve. Windy all day. Soldiers came- 100 strong & pitched camp near boys houses. Head officer seems very nice. Mulungit seems to have the influenza epidemic that many have because of dust. Tagi returned. Animal ate peas & beans off last night. Hope to trap them. Jno laid first row of shingles on south side of roof.

Sat. Oct. 26

Shower. Baked quite a bit. Made things for taking lunch out tomorrow. Asked Lieut. Buckeridge to come & others- but he said only one at a time as others must stay in camp. Jno planted corn. Soldiers cutting brush for enclosure & shacks. Cutting much we didn't want cut.

Sun. Oct. 27

Shower. Had Sun. S. some soldiers came. Ithera & Daudi helpt with fire for tea. Went to the river past the spring. Rather showery. Came back about 3 & had phono. Lieut B. is Irish & very funny. Gave him some L.H. Journals to read. Quite a crowd in Tagi's house tonight. Tagi talked.

Mon. Oct. 28

Cloudy. Thot I wouldn't get wash dry as it was so cloudy. but all is dry. Many more whites & soldiers came this P.M. & slashing & cutting on all sides. Makes me feel sick. Stopt men three times from cutting some green bushes on this hill. Did cut a lot & all along the garden. Wish they'd move on. No one seems to know when they will.

Tues. Oct. 29

Jno worked at shingles again. Mulungit brot mail yesterday. Boys letter came. The place looks like a city at night. Two Kavarondo boys come to school. Miss S is busy for a change.

Wed. Oct. 30

Rained most of day. Somali came with tent etc. Goes to school. Pitched tent near Tagi's house. Lieut. B brot a Mr. Smith up this evening to see Jno- but J. got a dizzy spell this A.M. while on the roof & has felt bum all day. Went to bed early. 9 Visitors at prayerm't'g.

Thur. Oct. 31

Typing some Swahili songs from Tagi's book. Jno & boys went to see how far it was to Masagondi's. Got back abt 3 P.M. Went to garden. Saw Lieut. B & Mr. S. Promised to bake a corn bread for them.

There has been a little accomplished during the month. The cook house & some roof. Everything goes slow with no help. Hope before end of next month this camp will be moved. No one knows. Waiting for Masai to bring in full quota of soldiers.

Fri. Nov. 1

Sprinkles – but windy. Jno does not feel at all well. Worked at splitting shingles a little. Meeting in school building tonight. 21 there. Mr Smith & the Captain called this eve. I made corn bread for Lieut. Buckeridge. Wonder what the end of the month will record.

Sat. Nov. 2

Sprinkle. Made salad & baked cakes & buns for tomorrow lunch. We've asked Capt. Mapp & Lieuts. Buckeridge & Smith. Had meeting again tonight. Quite a few come. Jno cutting at path to river crossing- toward Masagondi's.

Sun. Nov. 3

Only clouds. Meeting at 10. A Kavirondo spoke in Luo also Tagi in Swahili. Ithera & Daudi made fires again & helpt. Had cooked corn & steamed fruit pudding. Staid til after 4. had phono & tea. Jno spoke at meeting this eve & Mulungit put it into Swahili. Caught 2 leopards & 2 hyenas in gun trap.

Mon. Nov. 4

Wanjiku helpt with washing as Nyakeiru has bad cold. Jno put big patch of shingles on roof. Went to garden. I set out some lettuce. Meeting tonight. Not so many out. Soldiers say Capt. doesn't want them to come. Jno will see him about it.

Tues. Nov. 5

Cloudy morning. Jno on roof. Kariuki went to Boma so sent for beef for Rs 1. & this noon a Lieut. Karr or something like it sent half a “Tommy”. Glad for all. K. brot many letters too. Some from both homes. Mulungit came for language work. Waidimu for sewing.

Wed. Nov. 6

More wind less clouds. Hyena was near house last night & howled. Mr. Buckeridge called & staid so long it was meeting time when he left & we ate supper after meeting. Didn't get things ready for tomorrow. Baked. fine coffee cake & buns sent some to Lieut. Kerr who sent us the “Tommy”.

Thur. Nov. 7

Tagi, Mulungit Jno & I started about 7:30 for Masagondis. Did a good deal of crawling thro the brush. Got there by 11:15. Lunched rested & had 27 at meeting. Stopt at another Kraal on way home. Still nearer home shot a pig- abt ¾ grown boys & Jno carried it in. Plenty of meat lately. Many out to service.

Agnes Bell letter Nov. 7, 1918

Fri. Nov. 8

Jno worked at roof. Abt noon another half “Tommy” comes from Capt. Mapp. Tonight they asked Jno & phono down. Had meeting first. Miss S. & I were going but came back for needles & decided to stay. Didn't feel well today. Headache.

Sat. Nov. 9

Baked buns & some bread. No meeting tonight. Copying new songs. Helpt Waidimu again this PM. Asked no one for tomorrow. Took 8 books & some buns to Capt. this eve. Soldiers cleared the hill of brush for drilling.

Sun. Nov. 10

Tagi at Boma. Quiet day. Glad for it feel bum. Very hot. Headache. No clouds. Were in all day. Service at 10 A.M. and this eve. Took organ over. Sang quite a lot. Tagi interpreted.

Mon. Nov. 11

This eve Lieut. B. came up to tell us that Germany is done for. How anxious we are to know just what that means. Nyakeiru washed for me. Mulungit returned & brot 10 cattle.

Tues. Nov. 12

Very warm & windy. Leiut B. came at noon to say peace was declared & Germany is a republic. Holiday no work so asked Capt & 3 Lieut to P.M. tea & phono. Made jelly roll. Sky rockets this eve & big native dance. Mulungits cattle strayed away- found 3. 9 missing.

Wed. Nov. 13

No celebrating tonight. Spanish influenza has broken out here in camp. Lieut B. is down & 14 cases. Must pray hard. M. hurt his eye. Found all but 2 of the cattle. big mail. Baked bread for campers. More tomorrow.

Thur. Nov. 14

Lieut. B. pretty bad all day but better this eve. Jno feeling miserable but not Influenza symptoms. 40 in hospital. Terribly windy. Jno lying down all day. Baked bread again.

Fri. Nov. 15

Not quite so windy. Corn cakes for break. Jno worked hard all day. Started fire below bridge. Still burning. Olduboi returned. Wants to work for pay. Shall we or not? Miss S. gave us a check of Rs 57 today. Bless her. 90 in hosp. Kariuki not well but Dr. thinks its just cold.

Sat. Nov. 16

Big black clouds. Baked & cleaned. Washed my hair this evening before bath. Jno planted potatoes & corn. The animals have been in & eaten a lot of things again. Guess Kariukis trouble is the Influenza alright but he's better.

Sun. Nov. 17

A tiny shower. Very lazy day. No meetings all day nor eve. Tagi & Olduboi have the trouble this eve & 172 sick & 7 white men. Dr. sick too. Mr. B. very weak but gaining. Mulungit found other two cows today. Boys brot sug. etc as tho I was to bake but I didn't. Am tomorrow.

Mon. Nov. 18

Windy. Nuakeiru helpt wash. Jno put floor in other room. Went much quicker than he thot it would. Baked for campers. Major sent a jug of lime juice & med. if we should get sick. 240 down. tagi & Olduboi seem better. Mulungit down. Kariuki about well.

Tues. Nov. 19

Tiny sprinkle. Heavy clouds. Jno put on shingles. Mulungit better. Goes with letters tomorrow. I have headache today. 300 natives sick. 2 died of pneumonia. Baked another cake for officers. Not nice tho – burned. Mended & finished up letters.

Wed. Nov. 20

Jno at shingles every morning for awhile. Went to garden this eve. Mulungit miserable. Kariuki went with letters couldn't get check cashed. Letter from boys. Natives have Influenza.

Thur. Nov. 21

Tries to rain. Miss Simpson sewing at night gown. I will finish crocheted yoke for her corset cover. Went to garden. Took up rhubarb. Too wet where it was.

Fri. Nov. 22

Jno made table for dining room. Had Nyakeiru plaster a little in bedroom to see how we like it. Mr. Buckeridge out again. Made some cakes for them. Sent up 2 tins butter & big tin of sugar & Major brot egg powd. & 1 for me too.

Sat. Nov. 23

Sprinkled more. What strange things do happen. This noon telegram came saying school is closed come for boys. So we are planning now to leave Mon. Sent ans. Tagi & wagon & Jno & I. Miss S. come into here. We moved bed into the bed room. Set up bureau.

Sun. Nov. 24

Very quiet day all day. Slept late. Took walk A.M. out to river crossing for Masagondis. 9 of the sick ones in camp died today. Seems too bad. Planning to leave early in the morning. To bed early.

Mon. Nov. 25

Tagi was at the house for the loads at 4:10. We were not yet out. Hustled. Got off at 5:40. Reached Ndulele about 10. Nanjiru gave us tea & we rested til 1 P.M. Then went to the camp on top of hill. Just before going down caught in hard rain. Had umbrella & bush. Safe. Nice traveling like this. Not tired.

Tues. Nov. 26

Up early & to Quarantine by 9 A.M. Many transport wagons there ready to start away. Thot sure boys would be in by ox wagons. Everyone thot they were coming but none have come so we'll go to K. early & perhaps meet them on the way. Mr. Taylor not here.

Wed. Nov. 27

Kijabe. Got a good start & were at Academy by 1:15 only to find the boys had left about 9 by motor car. I cried. Agnes fixed me up with clothes. Mrs. H. came to see us. Miss S. went down to get things on ox wagon. Jno led prayerm't'g. To Kendalls for supper. Alfred found we could go by motor in morning. So glad to see every body again.

Thur. Nov. 28 Thanksgiving

Each went by motor. Found the boys all OK. Mr. Taylor was looking after them. But very disappointed about wagons as they told Miss S. they were not going til today so she stored things then wagons went. So we left things. Tagi & Ollgoai walked back again today. Pretty hard on them. Are at Mr. T's. So nice to have the boys again.

Fri. Nov. 29

Got very early start. Pulled up the hill & part way across. Before we stopt. Boys walked but very tired. thirsty too & all our good water leaked out. Got to Ndulele Indian gave us tea. Many have died while we were away. Nanjiru's store is closed. Got a few things. Nice to think of “Home tomorrow”.

Sat. Nov. 30

Up early. Home by 8. Found Miss S. still in bed. Got some breakfast & unpacked & she moved out & I baked both for camp & us. Nice butter from Miss Slater & Mrs H. helps out & jam from Mrs Kendall. Boys are all over. Find great change. Have their spring in our room too. Miss S's house has slabs up.

Didn't think a month ago the boys would be here. It is nice to have a long vacation. Bells may come. We may go camping. Much sickness & many deaths this mo. 38 eskari & 14 porters and many Indians at Narok & Ndulele.

Sun. Dec. 1

Slept late. Boys cut “Betty Bonnet” from Journal. We read some. This P.M. had 4 officers up for P.M. tea & played phono til 7 P.M. Then we had meeting & lunch afterward. No time for extras.

Mon. Dec. 2

Nyakeiru not well. did washing myself. R. helpt. Jno closed west gable. Baked bread & some cakes for camp. Meeting. Jno & boys took phono down to camp by request. How well I remember a year ago. [Speaking at a series of meetings in PA prior to leaving.] Writing while I wait for them to return.

Tues. Dec. 3

Ironed. Baked. Nyakeiru better. Mulungit herds this week. Wrote home letter. Jno put mud & sticks at west end of house.

FMS letter Dec. 3, 1918

Wed. Dec. 4

Took every thing out of dining room. Put table under tent fly. trunks outside covered. Got all dirt carried in. & some water. Expected Mr Buckeridge this eve but didn't come. Kariuki returned from K. brot cookies & butter from Mrs Hurlburt. Also news of Mrs. Guildings death on Sun. of “Fluenza”.

Thur. Dec. 5

With the boys help & hard work Jno got the floor finished. Now hope 'twill dry fast. This one is badly cracked but may be improved when smeared with cow dung. Mr B. called. Is leaving for Nairobi. Gave him some cookies. Cut out Georges kahki suit & waist for Claudon.

Fri. Dec. 6 *

Good shower. Thot I'd get some sewing done but worked otherwise all day. Baked. Jno put floor into Miss S's house. Tagi hauled water. Went to garden. Started bread.

Sat. Dec. 7

Some more rain. Baked all A.M. Bread & cake for camp. & bread for us. Had new potatoes for dinner. Tried Mama's brown bread. Every one says it's fine. Very tired. Boys are having good times. Jno helping boys cut irrigating ditch.

Sun. Dec. 8

Sprinkle. How well I remember a year ago. [Mix-up on train getting home from Willow Grove. Conductor stopped train to pick up Claudon.] Had services at 10 A.M. Good crowd out. Quiet P.M. Full house tonight. some are leaving tomorrow for Malo. Shall miss our faithfuls. some have come so regularly.

Mon. Dec. 9

Nyakeiru couldn't help with wash so R & I did it alone. Had plenty of water so wasn't so bad but took til noon. couldn't iron with table up in tent so wear things unironed. Tagi herds this week he saw lion today.

Tues. Dec. 10

Thot I'd get sewing done. But Capt. sent up flour which means he'd like bread. Mule ran away today to Boma. Mulungit killed ox. We got some. No word yet from our loads bot while at Kijabe. Pretty good attendance at meetings.

Wed. Dec. 11

Not many left at camp any more. Jno made frame for back veranda. Mulungit went to Boma. Brot some groceries & some mail. Tagi again had trouble with lions so will take the gun tomorrow. Floors are both drying fast. Jno keeps pounding shut the cracks. Girls are plastering walls for Miss S.

Thur. Dec. 12

Very hot. Jno works in garden every day. Claudon has temp. this P.M. Looking thro trunks today. Sorting things. Jno made book case – and it's more than full. Fellows at the camp are not returning things very fast.

Fri. Dec. 13

Finished with trunks. Baked bread for camp & some for us. they may all leave Sun. The Native sargent is very ill so can't move now. Jno in garden. Animals are eating everything again.

Sat. Dec. 14

M. brot letters. Many from home. Baked cookies & cakes for both. The sargent died this P.M. so they are leaving in the morning. Had school & meeting tonight for those who leave. Still 2 Journals & 3 books that haven't been returned. McQuilkins may be on their way out.

Sun. Dec. 15

Heard a lion abt 7:30 A.M. Every body left today. Capt. came up to say goodby. Jno asked abt books. found one had been packed “by mistake” & gone. Think it very discourteous & careless of them. Not all gone til P.M. Boys & Jno went thro camp & picked up what was left. R & C both have temp. this P.M. Better this eve. Don't know what it is. No meeting this eve.

Mon. Dec. 16

Didn't wash. C's birthday. Took lunch out to river. I made dried cherry pie. Also birthday cake & candles. Had it after dark. How fast the years fly. Sent telegram about our loads.

Tues. Dec. 17

Washed big wash. R. couldn't help had sore hand. Nyakeiru sick. Jno working at garden fence. Tried to get some writing done. Dr. Newberry G.

Wed. Dec. 18

Such a stack of mending. C. runs a temp most every P.M. Gave him quinine today. Guess it helpt. Didn't send for mail as we want to go to Boma tomorrow to get a few things.

Thur. Dec. 19 *

C. got pretty tired. Had temp again too. Got some things. Helpt Olduboi & Ceke carry them. Lunched under a tree. First Digest came. Letters from Lora & Mr. Anderson.

Fri. Dec. 20

Jno, Mulungit & Olduboi went down stream fishing. Brot home 82 little ones but very nice. Sewed at R's blue tie. & Jno's brown. Baked cookies & two crusts. Sort of Day of Prayer at chapel.

Sat. Dec. 21

Thot I'd sew but cleaned & worked in kitchen. Mended some. Do so wish our loads would come. Tagi & M. went to Boma & brot ½ ld Bombay flour. Also sugar.

Sun. Dec. 22

Wonder if Al got letter. Up late. S.S. at 10. Long rest. Walked thro gardens & camp. Got some corks for fishing lines. C. complains of his neck aching. Evening service.

Mon. Dec. 23

Tried to rain. Very windy. Nyakeiru helpt wash. Boys hauled water. C. temp started about 10. was up to 104 again. Is so hungry. I let him up this P.M. but should not have as he was miserable this eve. Telegram that loads are at Quarantine.

Tues. Dec. 24

Jno got a tree. Dosed C. with quinine. No temp but complained of neck. Gave a little aspirin. All at the Kraal were up here for tree and others too. Looked very nice. Baked some. 3 loads came from Kijabe by Military wagons. Kariuki overtook Agget wagons at Ndulele with letter to bring other loads.

Wed. Dec. 25

How well I remember a year ago. [Finally leaving for Kenya after long delay.] Was up early. Put meat on in debe [metal drum]. 4 big kettles of rice. All seemed content with what they got. Had nice service at 10:30. C has some temp again. Raisin pie for supper & canned peaches. We were 40 for dinner. Ate out in woods.

Thur. Dec. 26

Misty & cloudy. Got early start for down river fishing. The 4 boys & 3 students & we 4. Miss S. staid. Caught a good number. C. pulled out the first. We caught quite a lot & boys gave us some. I took writing along. Claudon cried much coming home & complained of neck hurting. Got home at dark.

Fri. Dec. 27

Mended most every thing. Boys went to Boma to pay tax. Not much mail. No loads yet. Fish last night for supper & this morning & this noon. All enjoyed them. finished home letters. Will send to Boma tomorrow. Jno at path.

Sat. Dec. 28

Very windy. Baked lots. Want to sew next week. Jno took lunch on path. Letters from Co. No loads yet. Wagon passed but left nothing. Bathed this P.M. Started another letter home. Jno playing all evening.

Sun. Dec. 29

Very windy. Very quiet day. Services as usual. Raymond made cocoa & we had breakfast in bed. Jno wrote at Conf. paper. Mr. Hague is able to get abt in wheel chair. Left side useless.

Mon. Dec. 30

Nyakeiru washed. So windy clothes dried quickly. I ironed all. & mended most all. Want to get at khaki sewing tomorrow. Mulungit went to Ndulele. No word of our loads.

Tues. Dec. 31

So very windy. Some clouds. Have again come to the close of 1918. and things are taking place very rapidly now making His coming seem nearer than ever. Suppose many are keeping watch night. Wonder how many are praying.

At the close of 1918.

How good God has been to us again this year. Seems like we are very favored in some ways. So thankful to be back in Africa again. So thankful too that the war is ended. No doubt there are many thankful hears in all countries tonight. Wonder, how we wonder whether we'll be here to close 1919. If not here then in a still better place where we wont care when 1919 closes. I am not sure of the state of the boys' hearts. I want to be as helpful as possible & yet not push matters too much. I think they are saved but am not sure.

Hope we can do more preaching & teaching next year than we have this year. Mr Fuller D.C. [District Commissioner] says there are 30,000 Masai on the Reserve. That will keep us busy for awhile. May we trust Him to bring things about so much time may be spent among them. Hope another lady worker may come here... There are many things we would like if He thot best for us: another house. A ricksha or some means of getting to & from Kijabe. Under-part of a tent. Have Gribbles good fly. He knows all abt it & will give us what we need. Another thing is my hearing. Would be so glad to have it restored but will praise Him any way. There may be some service I can render better by not hearing so well. He knows & He is able.

May I fret less & trust more in 1919.

                                                                                                                      Index