Florence Minch Stauffacher Diary – 1940.                                                                                Index

Mon. Jan. 1

And what will it end like. The terrible earth quake in Turkey. and wars & wars all point to the fact we are in the end time. Bible teachers are all agreed that it can’t be long til our Lord comes for us. It’s been hard to realize this is Happy New Yr. We are so unsettled. Letter from Bank says almost Sh 300. for us. How very grateful we are. God is so good to us. We will ask Mr Brand if he would take us up. Twould be much better.

Tues. Jan. 2

Mr. D. packed all iron things. did it all so securely. Jno & Ken took the tea kettle & went fishing. I intended packing the big trunk - but only finished the steamer trunk & suit cases pretty well. Women had tea here before mtg & after mtg Lows were here. She wanted books & took a good haul. We had tea & they left just as the men came.

Wed. Jan. 3

Packed another box of books & Kodak albums etc. and also the big trunk. Now we still have the smaller trunk to pack with glass jars & some dishes. They all went fishing this eve. so we have a nice lot for breakfast. Kuyoni got permission to have the gun. Things sold to natives have brot in over Sh 50/- Will try to clean up a bit tomorrow.

Thur. Jan. 4 K i j a b e

Jno kept saying Devitts & Brand w’l’d be in today & want to go on to Kjb. They did. We were eating when they came. They had lunch with them & then every one got busy. Mr D. had packed the fruit cans & the top of trunk was quickly finished but not all went in & we thot we’d leave it but Edith kept insisting all w’d go & so it did but not the ¾ bed. Jno had it all done up ready but twill come later. Quite a crowd were there to see us off. Jno & Br. got away an hr. before us. I couldn’t keep the tears all back.

Fri. Jan. 5

Kenneths called up first thing to see if we wanted to go to Nairobi. Brand had wanted to go - so we all 3 went with K’s. Got some things that were ordered especially Rays ammunition. Mr B. got Belgian visa and med. certificate so he’s all set. as well as permits for petrol. Got back ab’t 7:20. tired as usual after a day in town. Brand wants to leave early Mon. morning & have break. on the way. Want to go to Kaimosi first day.

Sat. Jan. 6

Went to R.V.A. after Mrs. Davis & Martha called. Then up to Eriks and back - and now tonight we were at Kenneths for supper and music on gramaphone. Then Erik came & said he had a wire the folks would be in Nairobi tomorrow & he’s to meet them. Ken goes too to bring things. It is late. finished Bettys suit.

Sun. Jan. 7

After break went to R.V.A. to hear Linnell & Martha play. It was very fine. John was thrilled, as usual. He went to see ab’t things on lorry. to Andersens for dinner & to 4 P.M. meeting & then to Drs for sour kraut supper. With gram. music afterwards & then a sing at Andersens. Ruth & Paul came but not the Srs. Ruth is natural but Paul isn’t. rained a bit.

Mon. Jan. 8 Kaimosi

Got away 6:15 & had a long day of it. Met Innis etc on road & chatted a bit. Had break. & lunch on way. Rained & was muddy on Timberoa road. put on chains. Was dark before we reached Kapsabet. ‘Twas 8:30 when we got here. Found Mrs H. & Martha here. Mr had gone to Kitosh. Mr Brand is pretty tired & we too. Had nice supper & to bed.

Tues. Jan. 9 Kampala.

Looked for camp but it had rained & the ground was wet - so kept on going & found the C.M.S. Guest home. Mr. & Mrs. Wilkins run it & she gave Jno & me a room & Mr Brand slept on a cot down by the lorry. Again the bed felt very good. Made good time today. & every thing went well tho we didn’t leave Hoyts til after 9. This is a nice place to stay.

Wed. Jan. 10

We had breakfast by 6 & were off by 6:30 and came along fine. as we finished lunch a bicycler came around the corner too fast & the woman & he both fell & the bike was badly bent. A little later another fell almost in front of the car. But we had no mishap & came 250 mi. to Mubuku Bridge & sleeping in PWD camp. Got nearly 20 mi to gal today.

Thur. Jan. 11 Oicha

Spose Cl. went to meet the boat for there seemed no way to let him know. Brit. Cus. made us leave organ, gram. & ammunition til we can get “export permission”. Belg. customs was very good to us & didn’t charge much. We’re disappointed ab’t organ etc. Got to the garage at Ruwenzori & found all there & Dr B. working at car. They persuaded us to come on. so we unloaded & came. We with Dr. & Mr Williams with Brand. Rained awful on way. All fine here & very surprised to see us.

Fri. Jan. 12

Did some washing & re packing and a load of us will go on lorry tomorrow. & Dr & Jim etc will come on Mon. I’m so eager to see the boys & do hope they aren’t worrying ab’t us. Just can’t realize yet we are here. Mother H. has been very ill they hardly thot she’d pull thro as it was her heart. but she has. tho she isn’t very strong yet.

Sat. Jan. 13 Rethi.

The lorry 3 toned horns blew before 5 & we were all up & packed & breakfasted before 6, & off. Mr. Williams & Miss Amstutz were with Mr Brand. the rest of us were outside. ‘Twas quite cold til the sun came up & the heavy fog cleared. We had lots of fun. Later as all wanted to sit outside I staid inside. We got here just ab’t 6. & no boys had yet come but they came ab’t 8. had helped several who had trouble. John is so big & Betty is dear.

Sun. Jan. 14

We are all in the school building. Cl. was with the single men but he is here now. Sara & babies in small room & men in large room. Miss Love showed me all the supplies as well as where all work is done. They are well organized. & surely take care of all very well. 160 here already &more coming tomorrow. Mr Amstutz had A.M. service. Dad & I both hear very well. Mr Philips from Sudan spoke this eve ab’t leaving Abbysinia etc.

Mon. Jan. 15

So many children are sick. John & Betty among ‘em. vomitting & diaroeha. Dad isn’t feeling well either. didn’t go to supper. S &I took turn ab’t staying with children. Beckers & Mr Bell came & are in other half of building. Mr. Deans is guest speaker & has 45 min each day. Enjoyed his talk. Then came home & S. went for next. No meeting tonight. so we talked. & went to bed early. Mr Brand wants to go to Bafuka too - but we don’t know if we are going now. today the folks at Kjb. scatter to all stations. Hope some one goes to Syabei. if not Shaffers some one else.

Tues. Jan. 16

Saw Vollers and Miss Quelch today. I am slowly getting faces & names registered in my mind. Betty seems quite herself but wants no food yet only fruit. John has temp again this eve. He didn’t go to supper. Mr Brand missed lunch but better this eve. My throat is sore & my neck stiff. but had a good nap this PM. so feel better. Cl. is at Council mtg. R & S. practicing a song to sing tomorrow.

Wed. Jan. 17

Went to early mtgs. & Ray staid. They sang at last mtg. both went this P.M. Had roast pork & dressing for dinner. Very good. Really all meals are very nice. & such lovely flowers. Today pink & red carnations and sweet peas - all tables alike. All children are better. Mr Paul showed pictures this eve. Dad & I went. He had a roll from Home office & one picture he said was R & Cl. when little with natives but I’m sure it was Lucile & Grace. Couldn’t see very well.

Thur. Jan. 18

Mr. Deans did speak so well this morn. Sara brot John then I came home afterward. Men worked at cars as it was womens work today. Agnes was to have it but she sent a paper. The flowers are so pretty - a lovely boquet of yellow gladiolus in church. Parents mtg tonight. I’m helping to lengthen S’s dresses that came from home. They look so nice on her. Wrote Barnetts.

Fri. Jan. 19

I went to all 3 A.M. services & all were very good. The building is small & I hear quite well. At 4 there was a game of volley ball between Bangala and Kingwana. We were supposed to root but R was on one side & Cl. on the other so I kept still. Chester Webbers came in - car broke down on the way. They will go on to U.S.A. now. Mr Deans spoke on the lawn at Miss Browns. Dad & Cl had to go to Council we 3 went to hear Mr D. served popcorn afterwards. Very good.

Sat. Jan. 20

The Richardsons, Imhoffs & Wilson came in while we were eating dinner. Brot news of Erik’s twin boys - John & Paul also a letter from Mrs. Shaffer saying they were moving to Syabei & expect Mr. & Mrs. Bisset of Scotland in next party for Lasit. Hope that will suit Mr. Whitehouse. Jno spoke to gathering at dormitory. on early days in Congo. Cl. at Council mtg. I wrote Dr Blakeslee. Miss Brown is happy to have her sister here.

Sun. Jan. 21

Rained pretty hard in the night & when at lunch it poured & hailed, so cars were used to get around. A.M. service led by Mr Buyse was good & communion afterward. This P.M. 4 children were dedicated. Betty one of them after a service of praise. Then quite a few went to Miss Dakins for tea & to see her house. Senffs came just as we were at lunch. from the west coast. They are taking over Maitulu while Webbers go home. New candidates giving their testimonies tonight. Dad & I didn’t go.

Mon. Jan. 22

Rained very hard early morning. And here we are on our way back. [arrow pointing to previous year, preparing to leave Ruwenzori] We got away by 9:15 in lorry. Dad & Cl & 3 ladies in C’s car. Rays had teeth done but they overtook us at Bunia. so I rode with them from there. 3 ladies on lorry & Dad & Cl went to Bogoro. We got in here Oicha ab’t 8. Dr Becker had come almost 9. & lorry ab’t 10 min. later. Agnes was ready for any number. Mother H. has been fine.

Tues. Jan. 23

Dad & Cl. got in ab’t 10:30 so we could have gone on. but Agnes urged us to stay so we did. Mr Brand, Mr Williams & Miss Frost left right after breakfast. Every one is very tired tonight. We ate supper at Harrys. but didn’t stay long. Rays are there all the time. Had nice walk out where Mrs Van D. lies. It’s lovely out there. Bells house is very nice too. not quite done yet. Never dreamed a yr ago that we’d be back in a yr.

Wed. Jan. 24 Ruwenzori

Left ab’t 9 & stopt at Beni then got as far as cars go after 12. so ate our lunch before starting the 3 mi walk. I felt bum this morn and dreaded the walk but it wasn’t too bad tho Dad helpt me at the last. I’m sure I don’t want to leave here again until the road is finished. Rays are in Becker house. We are in what was Uhlingers room. Ray carried Jno, Cl. Betty as we needed all men for loads. Found all our loads here. So glad. Saw moon rise.

Thur. Jan. 25

Unpacked a bit but can’t do much til Williams pack up some of theirs. This P.M. all but Mrs W. & children & I went up the point on other side of river & are camping there tonight. I sleep down with the children. We’re all writing Eriks. I tried to get some things put away but didn’t do much. My cold is so bad - I most blow my head off. It rained a bit here hope it’s clear up where they are. It’s such fun to keep the children. They are usually very good.

Fri. Jan. 26

The folks came back in time for dinner - but Dad & Mr W. They came by tea time. All had a nice time but very tired. I did quite a lot of hand washing this morn. Betty’s & my things. Every one so tired all went to bed early. When we tried records on Cl’s gram. it sort of wobbled & didn’t go right so no one wants to run it again.

Sat. Jan. 27

Today Dad unpacked most every thing. not all books nor iron things. We got a lot put away. Cold is horrid. Baked lemon pies & date cookies for chop box as they want to leave early Mon. morn. Not Mr. W. just the 5 in Rays car. May go up crater. Found only 2 saucers broken so far. Am taking a set of 8 plain white dishes from Mrs. W. We’re very glad for them and all the provisions they are leaving for us. and some native made beds. They’ve been very nice ab’t every thing. & will take the pay for things as fast as we can pay them.

Sun. Jan. 28

While at second mtg it rained very hard and has kept it up most all day but stopt this eve. Every one rested long. John is quite sick. Complains of stomach ache. hasn’t been dressed. but seems better - no fever - tonight. Fixed up chop box for the trip to the lava. Had mtg here this eve. Dad spoke. Mr Brand sleeps in living room.

Mon. Jan. 29

I got up at 4 - so did Cl. they were off before light. Johnny is alright. We moved them up here. Wonder where they are camped tonight. Porters were here before 5. My nose keeps bleeding. Have to blow such a lot. Children fairly good but John had one tantrum & wouldn’t let Edwin have his play things so I put J. to bed tho it was after 3. for he hadn’t slept before but slept then. Can’t seem to get much done but wash for Betty & take care of ‘em. John eats well today.

Tues. Jan. 30

Nose still bleeding so asked Miss Noweck ab’t it & she said she’d give me something tonight when we go to hear news. Were down last night too. Had waffles this eve. Children wouldn’t eat creamed carrots but had waffles too. John played nicely today. There is station mtg at 4:30 but I don’t go as the children are cross then. Couldn’t get walk today as it rained this eve, & Betty missed it. W’s are getting packed up, & we getting things out. Am glad for every thing I brot.

Wed. Jan. 31

An uneventful day. children good and so I got our room pretty straight. W’s are slowly getting things put away. They seem to have twice as much furnishings as we have. tho not so many books. Guess we’ll have to get more things - tho we’re getting part of a set of dishes from them and some mats and big rug - not new - but we’ll get on alright. Wonder if folks will be back tomorrow by this time.

Hardly thot last yr. we’d be here this year. 1940 has surely started out with a bang. How will it end? We’ll likely be the only Stauffachers in Af. for if the boys’ plans carry they’ll all be in U.S.A. next yr this time. They are talking of driving thro So. Af. Hope they can. We’re so glad to have Rays here now.

Thur. Feb. 1

No folks yet. Guess they’re seeing tings. How well I remember a yr. ago. [safari to Biasiko] Children are fine. Betty is so good & Jno & Edwin are getting to play together nicely. Edwin has festering sore on his arm. & face. I’m taking med. for my nasty cold & Miss Noweck put another argyrole swab in my nose as it still bleeds.

Fri. Feb. 2

And tonight they came. Had just put Jno to bed & was telling a story when Mr Brand came & said the others were near. Jno didn’t know whether to laugh or cry he was so excited he was pale. Betty was fast asleep but she soon knew her mother & daddy had come. Mrs W. got most of their supper. All report a good time. Had lunch at Paul H’s today.

Sat. Feb. 3

Every one pretty busy. Williams are pretty well packed up. I baked a ginger bread & W’s & Brand ate half for tea & the others finished it this eve. It’s nice to be all together again. Baked rhubarb pie for tomorrow. Worked all day. got bath after supper. W’s loads go down to the truck on Mon. & they’ll leave Tues.

Sun. Feb. 4

Communion Sun. It’s very nice to all be here together on such an occasion. Ladies here to dinner. Very restful P.M. Rained some. good for things we set out yesterday that Sara brot from Kitsombiro. Good sing tonight for we had Miss Noweck’s organ here.

Mon. Feb. 5

Lots of men have been taking W’s things down to lorry. Ray & Cl got away ab’t 9. to go to an out school - & perhaps kill an elephant as word has come they’ve been troublesome. We settled our acct. with Brand for bringing us up. sh. 400 only. We thank him & God. We haven’t pd. Ws. all yet. but hope to soon.

Tues. Feb. 6

Sara moved up here. Men came & took things down & Mr B went with them then they returned & got the rest & Williams finally got away by 11:30. Took letters & will sned the post with Dr. B. on Thur. Likely Misses Junod and Smith will come with him too but Miss Frost will hae them there. Seems strange to be so few. How well I remember a yr ago. [returning from Biasiko safari]

Wed. Feb. 7

They got an elephant. Boys came in just at supper time. No loads tho so we’ve had to russle round & get beds & blankets. We’re using a bed of Uhlingers. Betty has been feverish all day. guess it’s her teeth & a bad cold. John & I baked a big batch of cookies. Cl. brot a lovely wild flower vine. I’ve planted it out by the tea room A brilliant scarlet star shaped flower - red on one side & white on back. no scent.

Thur. Feb. 8

Dr. B. came and 3 ladies but they all went back with him again. and Miss F. had prepared so much for them. They had tea here & dinner there. Dad works all A.M. & studies P.M. Cl’s porters came back this eve. Rays must leave on Mon. We’re sorry for it seems we’ve hardly seen them at all. Mr Brand left for Kenya today. to get other car.

Fri. Feb. 9

Had sort of a chill ab’t 4. and felt miserable by bed time. I took quinine but think it is really too much lemonade. I have to remember a yr. ago. [about to leave Congo to return home to Kenya] Baked date cookies. Betty has been very feverish all day too. but it seems it’s her teeth. 3 double ones all trying to come thro. Very sunny & hot today. Trying to get things together for Mon.

Sat. Feb. 10

Had an awful night. but slept some toward morning & have felt alright today so am convinced twas too much acid. Betty is OK too today. Were going for picnic supper to the river but too dark & rainy so had it on our veranda cafeteria style. Had Cl’s records tonight but the machine isn’t working right.

Sun. Feb. 11

Can’t realize this is our last day together. Miss Frost went to villages so didn’t come to dinner but Miss Noweck did. Had Miss Noweck’s organ over so had good sing this eve. Ray plays so nicely. He & Sara sang one very nicely. To bed fairly early as we want to get up early. More than ever have I noticed how like his Dad Ray is, with the witty replies & remarks he makes.

Mon. Feb. 12

All were up at 4. I got their lunch ready while Cl. set table after starting fire. They left ab’t 5:30. it was just getting a bit light. At 7 I noticed the lunch box left in the pantry! sent a man but he returned. Cl. went after elephant all day but got none. We moved our bed into the end room & Dad made a writing table for there. so we’re all settled. tho haven’t guest room fixed up.

Tues. Feb. 13

Thot I’d get lots of studying done but am still putting away & sorting. Had the middle room plastered & so sorted things in the trunks. Have Uhlingers bed up & our trunks for furniture. Just as I was ready to go at writing the mail man came. Such a lot of Xmas mail. the usual cheque from Mattie but it was made out to Charles - so will have to return it. Also a remit. $41. We are so grateful as now we can pay Williams all up.

Wed. Feb. 14

Got a bit more studying done but not much. So many little things to do before we can get all in order. Sorry our permits did not come. so can’t get the organ yet. Jno works down in the valley these days. Is planting something most every day. Suppose Rays got home today. We had a huge dish of strawberries for supper. wrote Aunt A. & others.

Thur. Feb. 15

More time for all studies today. We are gradually quieting down & settling into routine. There seems still plenty to do. I want to get many letters off soon so folks will know where to find us. Mended some. but have still more to do. I’ll bet Sara has been busy too. More strawberries tonight.

Fri. Feb. 16

Had prayer service 8:30 to 10 & got over ab’t half the letter - will take the rest next mo. Had regular 4:30 mtg as usual. Wrote Scudders tonight but just couldn’t get any thing done but a bit of mending.

Sat. Feb. 17

Jno & Cl went exploring down the valley. Found a Pygmy village & some pretty places but had pretty rough going - mostly elephant paths. They were back by 2:30. Popped corn for supper. took ladies some. Such a lovely sunset we sat out long & watched many fires all over the lower hills. Wrote Mattie.

Sun. Feb. 18

Meetings as usual. Miss Frost out at villages. Had strawberry shortcake for dessert. & sent a piece down to her. All went to Miss N’s this eve for service and I read Bauman’s article on Prophesy in S.S. times. There are still others left to read another time. Wrote Aunt Ellen’s birth. letter but twill be very late.

Mon. Feb. 19

Sent off quite a bunch of letters & sent for more stamps. Dad cutting an easier path down to the lower garden he’s making. It’s so hazy today can scarcely see the next hill. People seem to expect rain as they are burning grass on all sides. Had good time to study with few interruptions. Went to hear news but radio isn’t working well. Finns still killing many Russians.

Tues. Feb. 20

Tried so hard to rain but only sprinkled. Went to garden after breakfast before study. Ironing all done. Milk man can’t seem to get much milk. Had some sour on hand so made waffles for supper & asked Miss Frost up. talked and wrote Mrs Riebe birthday letter. Must get Cora’s off now.

Wed. Feb. 21

Cl. in bed most all day with fever or something. Will see Dr. tomorrow. Mended again also studied some. Gave Asani Cl’s socks to mend & there are still others to do. I got pretty good studying in today. Wrote Mrs Hoyt tonight. Only Miss N. Dad & I to mtg. Hope we get our organ permits tomorrow.

Thur. Feb. 22

Dr. came & brot some letters. Mr Brand came last Sat. night. Brot his radio etc & no trouble as he had permits. He says ours were posted to us. but tho the post came this eve. no permits came. Dr. says Cl has a bit of malaria. Just did almost nothing but get Oicha veg. & letters off.

Fri. Feb. 23

Picked a lot of strawberries. Canned 3 ½ qts. and have some ready to jam. Cl. was called to shoot elephants and as he felt bad in his head from quinine, he went & killed one & shot the other several times but it got away. There were only 2. The road men get half of it. Dad is getting a nice garden dug over in the valley. Wrote Miss Hillis.

Sat. Feb. 24

Lots of fires all round. burning grass. As I supposed, the helpers all wanted to go & get meat so after their work was done they left. I made strawberry jam & canned toms. & baked straw. pie & made a choc. cake. So had a good time all by my self. They came after 2. John & Cl working a the spring. found a larger am’t than is coming below. Wrote Mrs Davis birthday letter.

Sun. Feb. 25

All meetings as usual. After our evening service at Miss Nowecks she tuned in for the news. Still sinking ships & Finns fighting Russians. Sweden may help. Brit. is helping with planes & ammu. Some one reported that the wounded elephant died in the bush near where Cl. shot him. Wrote Barnetts. Rained some this P.M.

Mon. Feb. 26

Rained lots in the night & some today. Clothes aren’t dry at all. Cl. spent most the day working on his car. down at the bridge. Typed 10 gen. fund letters. Got a nice lot ready to post. Guess the dry spell is over. John planted lots of seeds in the valley garden.

Tues. Feb. 27

Men went for post & things at customs. Packed chop box & they got off ab’t 8:15. They said they’d send men in with things from Beni but no one has come. Did want the post much. Wash is dry. boys pembed [whitewashed] our bedrooms. Mended. Wrote Mrs U. this eve. Nice talk at pr’mtg. ab’t our problems. I’ve been taking atebrin as I felt badly Sun. I’ll stop now.

Wed. Feb. 28

Got up with a horrible cold in my head. Used oodles of Kerchiefs. Men came in ab’t 3. It had rained & was still at it some. and as they brot all the things they had to take the top off & they got into rain so things got rather wet. Dad says that’s a wonderful place to see hippos, elephants & he saw a huge buffalo. Every thing is fine - nothing broken.

Thur. Feb. 29

Dried all wet things and got the gram. all solid between the windows. Got the mirror onto the bureau. Did some mending. but still some to do. Don’t know when ever I’ll get at knitting. Rugs look so nice on the floor. Wont put up many pictures as there are some up. Trying out Cl’s records & find some very nice ones. So nice to have shade on hanging lamp.

My cold seems to have gone as suddenly as it came. I asked the Lord to relieve me & He did. Mrs Shaffers letter says they are changing our bedroom into sitting room for piano, gram etc would more than fill dining room. They aren’t doing any thing ab’t school. Up to the elders.

Fri. Mar. 1

Mended & then mended again. Goes rather slow by hand but am getting there. Want to fix up John’s old helmet. With some studying and letter writing & catching up with my Bible reading there’s not much time for knitting. No rain today here but must have poured up in the mt as the river is roaring.

Sat. Mar. 2

Cl. paid all help today but the cook isn’t very happy because we’re giving only Frs. 35 & Williams gave him 40. Other boys get 20 each. and the water man. don’t know what the wood man gets. Baked pie & cake from Miss Nowecks molasses. good. Mended again. I tore my thin black on a nail last Sun. took long to mend it. Played Cl’s records. have the lamp in living room.

Sun. Mar. 3

Communion Sun. so Miss Frost was here. Talked long after dinner. Then rested & after supper took a long walk to the village & saw where the church is going to be built. Had another 2 of Bauman’s articles on events in Europe. They are surely heading up fast these days. Talked late ab’t world affairs.

Mon. Mar. 4

No rain today & so it’s getting pretty dry for the seeds. I watered them. John has been at the spring today. I got ab’t 2 hrs. of study in this A.M. Then did bandages etc. for Miss Noweck. Mrs Shaffer said they were having good rains at Syabei. No school was begun as they want elders to pay teacher & they wont.

Tues. Mar. 5

Work as usual. Cl. is getting bricks piled for burning. Went to Miss Nowecks for news but could hardly hear. & she said last night it was lovely. Got good study in today again. but Dad wants me to have the men in this garden tomorrow as he’s working at the spring again. (See 2 wks later)

Wed. Mar. 6

No studying as I was over in the garden til after 11. Lots of work to be done. & there’s still lots of food there too. I looked from one end to the other so have located things. Some cucumbers are ready. We picked lots of dry limas & also soup beans.

Thur. Mar. 7

Dr. came & brot 5 huge paipai & we filled the basket with vegs. and another with lemons. Letters from Shaffer, Clarke & Mrs Probst & Mattie with another $10. We are so grateful. Dad saw a large snake in the garden. but couldn’t get it tho Cl. came for his rifle - it got away. Cl. oiled the organ seat it’s very pretty now.

Fri. Mar. 8

I went over to the garden again & kept men working. One cleaned up the path. I picked strawberries & we had short cake for supper. Don’t get any studying done these days but Jno wants the men in his garden next wk. Cl. is getting bricks stacked to burn next wk. while he goes to some of the out schools.

Sat. Mar. 9

Baked some extra for Cl’s chop box. Washed hair- and this P.M. helped John clean the organ. It was dirty. Now all reeds sound any or all the time. but one pedal still does not work right. Rained quite a nice shower this P.M. Men went up a pretty valley this morn. Now Jno thinks we should get that stream around the hill & here to the house.

Sun. Mar. 10

Meetings as usual. As dinner was getting there was a fire alarm for the dry grass tween Miss F’s house & church had caught. Every one went to fight it so dinner was late. Then Miss N. & I sat & talked afterward. I spent all P.M. at Bible reading & Searchers. ‘Twas raining after our eve. meeting. We read more of Baumans articles. Very sick man came yesterday. died this noon.

Mon. Mar. 11

Cl. left right after breakfast but ‘twas very rainy all A.M. Fog was very thick when he left. No school all day tho this P.M. was pleasant enuf. Maybe it didn’t rain where Cl went. tonight he’s at a rest house south along the hills. Hope he has enuf in his chop box. Went to hear news but not much & no music.

Tues. Mar. 12

Lovely bright day. Clouds & threat ab’t 4 P.M. Men working in John’s garden so I got studying done. Roasted coffee but grinder broke down so couldn’t grind it. Jno fixed it so will grind it & corn tomorrow. Wrote Miss Kolachny. Wonder if post will come tomorrow. Cl. took man part way yesterday.

Wed. Mar. 13

Studied some - but plenty of interruptions. Took me all P.M. to mend J’s khakis. But he needs these old ones badly. Rained some so the seeds got wet. Some I sowed last week are up. Have been quite uncomfortable in my stomach all day. Another jigger in my finger. Wrote Mrs Griffin of “The Christian”.

Thur. Mar. 14

Letters today. One from Ray written Feb. 28. not so bad. Also from Mrs Barnett. Mr Knapp broke his leg near hip. Poor sufferer. Hope the Lord takes him soon. Our Conf ex. is Frcs. 570 - both of us - not so bad. Finns have made peace with Russia. We’re going over to listen tonight.

Fri. Mar. 15

Prayer Day. & after our A.M. meeting 8:30-10 Miss F. & a good many boys went to villages. The cook went. Finished one sock of John’s - red cotton. Wrote Ivy & sent list. Hope they will come for vacation & bring things.

Sat. Mar. 16

Usual work. Claudon came back ab’t 3:30. Had a nice time. Shot 2 elephants. Brot some paipai & chickens. We’ll have chicken next Sun. Easter. Going to get news tonight. Wrote Shaffers.

Sun. Mar. 17

Lovely day til this eve then it rained but ladies came over for Keswick add. Worked at “Searcher” this P.M. It’s one left over from ‘37 as they sent no new ones this year. Had peppers stuffed with buffalo meat. Pretty good.

Mon. Mar. 18

Got a real down pour this P.M. No school. Forgot to seal Ken’s letter. Hope Beni man does it. Went to garden & worked outside all A.M. so studied this P.M. Wrote Mattie this eve. answering the last check of $10 received. Jno’s hand troubles much at night.

Tues. Mar. 19

Bad head most all day. Worked outside most A.M. Jno working at the terracing. Twill be nice when done. Pigs are coming into the gardens & eating things. Wish we could eat them. Cl. got some thing into his eye & it’s quite painful. We put hot compress on. & hope twill be better. Hitler & Mussolini met on border & had 2 hr. Conf. about how Wells who is trying to get things settled, was impressed by Germany’s desire for peace.

Wed. Mar. 20

Cl’s eye seems no better tho I’ve washed it several times with boracic water. I transplanted some coreopsis & phlox and hope Jno will get more terracing done tomorrow. Hard rain. Going for news. Writing Sara.

Thur. Mar. 21

Dr. came. brot paipai. He looked at Cl’s eye & saw the tiny particle of emery at once. But he hadn’t the right med. here - tho he removed it he thot there was pus & ‘twas right on the iris. So Cl. went with him. Mr. Brand wrote he & Agnes want to come over some time for wk end so maybe they can this week. & bring Cl. back. He suffered a good deal the last 2 days. Planted strawberries over here. Dad at the terracing. twill be very nice.

Fri. Mar. 22

Worked outside some this A.M. Dad thot they might come today but not yet. Dad is cutting at a path over to the next stream where they want to take the water out. This eve went to hear the news but the reception wasn’t good tho we heard the news. There was lovely sacred music because of Good Fri. but twas so wavey it wasn’t clear & nice.

Sat. Mar. 23

They came - Cl. Williams family & Miss Edna. ab’t 7. We had eaten. They waited long for the post & then it didn’t come. I baked & made jellies veg. and all sorts of things - even made some fondant candy & stuffed dates. W’s are at Miss F’s house & miss Edna is here in guest room.

Sun. Mar. 24 EASTER.

Every one seemed to enjoy the day. All were here to dinner. Miss E with Miss F. for supper & Miss N. here. Eats were good. and enjoyed by all. After lunch Cl. took Misses E & F & W’s over to the stream. and after tea Dad took ‘em all down to his garden. I finished Sara’s letter & wrapped Keswick add. for them. Read Rowell on “Pope, Pres. & ” from S.S. Times. Good.

Mon. Mar. 25

The folks got away by 9 or so. When Mrs W. & I went to the garden we found pigs had been in the corn awful. destroyed ab’t 1/3 of it. The natives said there were 7 & they got after them with their spears so perhaps they frightened them so they wont return but Cl. wants to go over when the moon comes up & maybe he can get one. wish he would. twould be good eats if its young.

Tues. Mar. 26

Went to the garden. and set out tomatoes. also ironed some of the linen. The boy does such poor work. Got the usual time of study in today. Tomorrow the garden men will help Jno. No rain today. Jno cutting at the path. Cl. was called to shoot elephant but he soon came back & found none. Hope the post gets in tomorrow.

Wed. Mar. 27

Mail came. letter from Ray & pictures. 2 from Shaffers. and from Olsons. but none from Kijabe. I can’t understand it. Cl. recharged Miss N’s battery so we are going over for the news. Rained so hard that there was no school. Mended this P.M. Wrote Millers. Spose we’ll get home mail next time.

Thur. Mar. 28

Mrs. S. writes that Bessie of Mbaei who was to be Geo’s wife after the baby came. was at hospital lost the baby & then she died. Pretty severe lesson to Geo. Mended at Khaki all P.M. & not thro yet. Finished knitting Johns red socks. started lengthening some for Cl. Cl. made me a wooden masher - & finished the organ stool.

Fri. Mar. 29

Rained this eve. did some sewing but seemed to accomplish very little. Takes time to get all the youngsters at their work as well as the house boys. Dad has ab’t finished lining up the water ditch ready to show Dr. B. when he comes. Going to Miss N’s for news.

Sat. Mar. 30

Nothing very exciting in the news last eve. & no nice music. We asked ladies here tonight for gram. music. They seemed to enjoy it. Did usual baking. Miss N. gave us some cocoanut so will make a co. costard pie tomorrow. have crust ready. Rained good soaking rain tonight.

Sun. Mar. 31

They took Miss N’s organ to church & I played. Miss F. went to the village at first camp up the mt. She came back too late for our meeting. We read 2 more of Bauman’s articles. They are so good. Wish the home folks could read them. Road is coming down the last hill.

Doesn’t seem possible that the yr. is ¼ done already. and what have I to show for it. Two well fed men. Perhaps that’s something. at least it takes a lot of my time. Guess I know a bit more Kingwana too. We’re still very glad to be here. Wonder if I will record the same next yr. when Cl. is on furlo.

Mon. Apr. 1

Now WHERE are we? [On this date/page of diary for last several years Florence has been speculating on where they would be the following year.] and Europe and Asia are still waging war. Cl. was up early & off for elephants but got none. Came back for late dinner. We got 2 pork hams & I canned ab’t 5 qts. with the sausage. It’s very nice & will be good later on. In all ab’t 7 or 8 qts of meat.

Tues. Apr. 2

Made some chili sauce, today. So many tomatoes are partly eaten by birds or a bit rotten so I boiled them up in this way. Worked outside most all A.M. It keeps me busy keeping the little boys - 5 of em busy. Dad still at his line up around the hill for water works.

Wed. Apr. 3

The road men are coming right along. Dr. Becker will be surprised to see how far he can drive tomorrow. Spent all A.M. in the bulb bed & haven’t finished yet. Boys are so careless & hoe out so many bulbs. Studied & mended all P.M. Guess I’ll get all mended by & by. Wrote Chas.

Thur. Apr. 4

Wata day! Dr & Mr Kliewer came ab’t 9:15. Got them tea-d. Then went to garden to collect vegs. Had strawberries for dinner. Mail came while men were seeing ab’t water ditch - on way back they were caught in down pour & so made fire & got tea for them. Lots of home mail. Telegram from Ken. they are leaving the 13^th. They’ll be here for my birthday.

Fri. Apr. 5

Too much news yesterday so didn’t rest so well. Spent all A.M. in the bulb bed. & looking after little boys’ work. Cl. went for elephant but got none. Mended & wrote letters. Got such a nice remittance yesterday. Word from Bank only so don’t know if there’s any strings to it or not. Am paying up Cl. abt S. 350. and getting cash too. ‘Twill be so nice to be all straight. Miss N’s radio refuses to go. Cl. at meeting. examining candidates for baptism.

Sat. Apr. 6

Baked & had chicken all dressed when Miss N. came & said she was killing a small pig & would send us some. it came. a back leg and this eve an outschool teacher brot a leg of mutton. so we do have some meat on hand. Will roast the legs a bit tomorrow so they keep. Still examining candidates tonight. I wrote Mrs Probst.

Sun. Apr. 7

Baptised 22. after first service and then had communion. The church didn’t hold the crowd at first service. small girls & boys huddled on the floor filling the front. Then the individual cups didn’t reach so some took it from a glass. Rained quite hard when we ate. Nice service tonight. Read an art. by Chafer.

Mon. Apr. 8

Worked among flowers & took 2 trips to the garden. Am not expecting Eriks this yr. as we were last & 2 yrs ago but are thinking a lot ab’t Kens coming. They’ll no doubt be on the way next Mon. Miss N’s radio not going so Cl. tried to fix it but couldn’t do any thing. Killed a little snake as we came home.

Tues. Apr. 9

Didn’t rest very well last night. Seemed so hot. ‘Twas hard to work this A.M. too. Had to rest once. Worked among flowers. Took on a new boy to clean grass but it’s a job as it’s been badly neglected. Wrote Shaffers. Finished knitting some socks longer for Cl. some Mrs. W. left. Shall see if he likes wool ones.

Wed. Apr. 10

Road men called Cl. because elephants were near so he took his car key & brot it over the hill & it’s parked part way down this last hill. They’ll likely be thro right down into the valley before Kens come. Then it’s not so far to walk. They might be here by a wk from tonight. Made ketchup & guava butter & jelly. Am trying to get the weeds out of the grass.

Thur. Apr. 11

Found out since [arrow to previous year: “Jno’s forearm is quite swelled from chopping wood yesterday.”] that twasn’t from wood but seems some form of filaria. Such a lovely mail. Birthday letters from Lo. Al & Mrs. Probst. also Mrs. Bischoff. and other letters. Worked in garden all A.M. Two little boys didn’t work today. Cl. went to far place for elephant but got none. Saw him come back in car.

Fri. Apr. 12

Martha Hoyt wrote Eriks were leaving Mar. 22. Earl & Esther had been at Kaimosi. We’ll know more ab’t them by next wk. this time I hope. Made more jam. some tomato marmalade. & it’s very good. We seem always planning for co [arrow to previous yr. “wonder if Eriks will be here by tomorrow eve this time”] Wonder if Brand, Agnes & Alice W. will be here tomorrow. Hope so.

Sat. Apr. 13

They came ab’t 8:30. Had only started at the regular work. Sent Brand to the men after we had tea here. All talked & rested & had lunch. & ab’t 3 went to valley garden & then packed supper & went to the south stream for supper. Twas quite a scramble but we all enjoyed it - even Miss Noweck for the place is beautiful. Music tonight & popcorn. The last til ours is ripe.

Sun. Apr. 14

Fairly busy but very happy day. All here to lunch. Had of the canned pork. stuffed some peppers. Forgot this is Grindleys birthday. Must write her soon. Had a good sing this eve & 2 very good articles of Baumans. The folks brot news that Germany has taken over Denmark & is fighting for Norway. Brit are helping Norway.

Mon. Apr. 15

Agnes & I went to garden & got some vegs. for her to take home. Then it rained a bit & clouds blew in. We had tea ab’t 9:30 & then it cleared & they left. ‘Twas so nice to have them here. When the road gets thro then Mother H. will come over for a visit. Kens might be here tomorrow night.

Tues. Apr. 16

Fixed up the guest room. Now let ‘em come. Sambiri pembed it & 2 beds are made up. Will see what is needed for Daphne when they come. Dad was sure he saw a car come beside Cl’s. but was mistaken. Had lovely lettuce and green beans from the valley garden. Ironed linen & mended khaki. Wrote Grindley.

Wed. Apr. 17

And today they came. ab’t 3:40. Dad saw their car & started down. also Cl. I walked down to the village & met them. They brot the radio so we got Miss Nowecks battery & were going to have the news but it wont work. She came over to hear! Cl. will go in morning & get K’s from his car. Heard lots of Kenya news from them. It’s so nice they are here.

Thur. Apr. 18

Dr. B. [Carl K. Becker] came & brot a Belgian man with him. Miss Frost went back with them. She sent me a lovely frosted cake for my birthday. We had fried ham for dinner and it was so good. Sent Miss N. some. Didn’t get much done today but cooking & going to the gardens. They brot such a lot of things even more than I asked for.

Fri. Apr. 19

J. not feeling well. stomach upset. Had Congo Prayer letter this morning and Kenya letter this P.M. Both interesting and helpful. It’s very nice to get the news. every eve. Fighting in Norway & bombing ships. Ivy is knitting Daphne a very pretty sweater. I’m going to crochet one for the new baby who is expected in Aug. Am at Bettys pleated skirt now.

Sat. Apr. 20

Not so this yr. [arrow drawn to previous year: “No one thot ab’t my birthday so I didn’t say any thing either.”] Miss N. remembered & asked us down for supper. It rained pretty hard all P.M. The men had gone to work at getting the water out. but had to leave it. Baked some but visited mostly. The supper was lovely. She also sent me a card & hanky with tatting that she’s worked at for mos. and $1. I’ll now send for “Sky” for J’s birthday.

Sun. Apr. 21

Dad got up for break. but went back to bed again. complains of stomach & bowels. Came out to dinner but didn’t eat much. At 5 I wanted to take a picture of us all at Miss N’s house. so he came too but felt very ill & before I got the 2^nd picture snapped he fainted so Ken & Cl. helpt him home. He has eaten a bit & taken some quinine & is sweating hard. Read Keswick add. We all think he has fever but he doesn’t.

Mon. Apr. 22

Official & wife called but we couldn’t talk. Ken & Cl. planned to go to Oicha thinking likely Jno would want to go but he didn’t so they went any way & will bring Harlows if they can. so as to get up the Mt next week while Ken is here & can go. Jno went to garden this morn. but has done nothing all day. Cl. brot up his bed & I oiled it & he is sleeping on it tonight. He is taking quinine. We turned on radio.

Tues. Apr. 23

Just did every thing usual. but takes time to keep boys at work. Dad just came from garden in time before it rained very hard. I tore up Dad’s old khakis & mended some for Cl. Cut out 2 aprons for the wash boy. but didn’t get them sewn. Got the news tonight. Wonder if folks are hearing it.

Wed. Apr. 24

After rest - ab’t 2 P.M. Cl. & carriers came in & later the Harlows. Kens staid at Oicha getting car fixed. They’ll be here tomorrow. Harlows are settled in Beckers house. They brot butter, brown sugar & cheese also oranges. I worked in garden all A.M. Rained quite hard over noon. Lovely letter from Ray & pictures of children.

Thur. Apr. 25

Kens haven’t come. Dad saw a car come in sight & then turn & go & he felt sure it was Kens. but it’s hard to explain if it was. Rained some. Weeds do grow but flowers & food does too. Made 2 aprons for kitchen help. Harlows are getting settled. Baby is so cute. very good too. Wrote the sisters.

Fri. Apr. 26

Still no Kens & we do wonder. Again a car came down beside Cl’s but it was some one else who had trouble to turn as it had rained. There’s talk of going to the Lake [Ishango] for Mon. night. Don’t know if all will go or not. Rained quite a bit today. Worked in garden some.

Sat. Apr. 27

Kens came just after dinner. Couldn’t get the car fixed - til late yesterday P.M. Now plans are on foot for Mon. Ivy & I wont go. & we’ll keep Mrs. Harlows baby. Dad says he wont go either but the boys want him to. Baked & stewed as usual. Have 2 chickens ready for tomorrow. They are very fat.

Sun. Apr. 28

All services as usual. Rained some this P.M. Sang & read this eve. Finished Mrs. Probsts letter this P.M. Am getting pointers on fixing baby Rhoda’s milk bottles.

Mon. Apr. 29

They got away ab’t 9. Ab’t 1:30 men came with some loads & said 4 white people were coming: Mr. Williams & Verna and Mr Brand and a Miss Monroe. I’ve moved in with Ivy and Mr. W. & Brand are down in Beckers house. Baby cried some this morn. but has been fine all day. Brand party were to go to the Lake with ours but missed them.

Tues. Apr. 30

Had early lunch & folks got away by 12:30. Our folks came back ab’t 3:30. Babe slept thro the night without any food. Now are getting things together for the Mt. climbers to leave in the morning. They had a grand time at the Lake & saw lots of animals.

How fast these mos. go! Oct. will be here before we know it. We’re so glad to have Kens here. wish they could stay longer. It’s nice too having their radio as Miss Nowecks is not running. They brot the battery but it isn’t charged. Nice rains these days.

Wed. May 1

Mrs. Harlow came up before breakfast & said Mr. had had an awful night, & couldn’t go up the mt. Then they decided to wait til tomorrow to go. & Ken & Cl. went over & helpt Dad at the ditch. Came home late to dinner.

Thur. May 2

They got away this morning. and Dr came bringing Mr. Spees & Misses Russ & Olson. Spees ate here. Mail came but nothing very exciting. Helen writes they’ll try to come early in July. Nice letter from Mrs Davis. Sent lemons & vegs. to Oicha. Wish we could see the mteers. Hope they are resting.

Fri. May 3

Some one killed a pig so I bot a back leg. We’ll use it fresh & perhaps put some in cans. Wrote Sitoya & will send by Kens. Washed my hair. Dad at the water ditch. Gets very tired.

Sat. May 4

Got baking etc done early & went for picnic dinner over into the pretty valley. Ivy got pretty tired. but we had a nice time. Miss Noweck didn’t go. We roasted the ham & I canned 2 qts. after we came home. It seems very nice. Crocheted while listening to radio have ab’t half finished the little sweater.

Sun. May 5

Usual services. Daudi spoke in Cl’s place. As we were starting our evening mt’g, there was a noise something like a deep clap of thunder & then things shook very hard. so the glass in the doors rattled hard. We went outside & tho there have been rumblings & tremors there’s been nothing hard & it’s after 10. Getting good music from U.S.A.

Mon. May 6

Was quite ill during the nite. Neither did Ivy sleep. There were still occasional tremors today but nothing much. How we wonder where & how the men are. At least they must have gotten pretty far up for they aren’t back yet. Sent a man with the post. I typed letters to donors of money, & hope I’ll get stamps so they can be posted. Spose Mrs. P. is in Nairobi.

Tues. May 7

And today Kenneth came in just at noon. Had left the others as they thot they’d try again for the high part but K. said it was snowing & raining so much, they saw very little & got no pictures of any peaks. He has some blisters on his feet & scratches but said he felt fine but Cl. had bad head Sun. night.

Wed. May 8

The boys fixed car & went for loads to the posts. The other two came in ab’t 3 P.M. very tired. Cl. declared he’d never go again. They got up on Mt Albert point but not on top. It was so wet & rainy that they decided to come back for it didn’t clear a bit. Now all are bathed & fed & have heard the news & gone to bed. We heard Sym. Orch. of N.Y. concert Sun. night.

Thur. May 9

Kens. expected to go today but it was so rainy. just rained almost all day. Cl. & Mr Harlow had gone for elephant but they sat in a hut most all day. Kens feet are pretty sore, several festery places. Had nice music this P.M. News from Europe is much the same - but Eng has withdrawn troops from So. Norway.

Fri. May 10

Kens got away from here ab’t 8:30 & left in car ab’t 10:30. Cl & Mr. H went again to look for the troublesome elephant. Dad & I finished a scrap lunch when a car came down hill. Dad Deans, Bob. Mr Paul, Misses Frost & Olson. Got lunch for them. then Cl & Mr H came & I got food for them. Mr H & Stephan went with D’s. Mission meeting needed him. Mrs H & Rhoda are in our guest room & Olson with Miss F.

Sat. May 11

Were ready for bed last eve when Miss N. came hurrying over & said Germany has invaded Belgium. & Holland! done some bombing, within 20 mi. of Paris. What next?!! Lots of fighting in the air. I baked & boys cleaned. and we’re going over for news. So nice to have Mrs H. here with us. Cl & Dad explored valley of big stream.

Sun. May 12

Still bombing ships, beaches and civilians. ‘Twas said at commencement “no bombing of civilians” but Germany is going in for it all so Eng. will have to too. Here we had communion service & it’s hard to realize what hundreds of the Lord’s children are enduring these days. Had nice service. Kes. Add. & then a chat.

Mon. May 13

Cl worked at car & also went for elephant but got none. not even a shot. Letters & all pretty well ready for tomorro. Went to hear news. Still more bombing. Started P.M. prayermtg again. Boys did big washings. but ‘twas sunny so all dried well.

Tues. May 14

Cl. and Mrs. H. & babe got away ab’t 8:30. We put every thing out in the sun. tents etc too & now they are put away. Tomorrow Sambiri will pembe the guest room and have it ready for Alice H & children if they come with Dr. on Thur. I some how feel very tired today. but guess it’s just the reaction. Did very little this P.M. Started letter to Mrs Barnett. Going over for the news.

Wed. May 15

Got room pembied and every thing aired but not put back. Before noon I got so tired - I just hope it’s not fever. I did do a bit outside. It’s such fun to work in the garden. Mended khakis today. Went for news. People are leaving Belgium fast as possible. going into France. Queen Wilhelmina of Netherlands is in Eng. Rotterdam is finished. all bombed to pieces. Ladies here for waffle supper.

Thur. May 16

Dr. came and brot Harrys. They are all settled in the guest room. Miss Olson went back with him. They now drive up a bit from the last stream crossing. It rained some this P.M. pretty hard for awhile. Every body pretty tired but we went for the news. Dr. thinks they’ll be ready for vacation in July & will go some where else if Pauls are here. but I’m hoping it can still be arranged.

Fri. May 17

Didn’t seem to accomplish much but am very glad its time to go to bed. Wrote Scudders Sr. Wonder if Cl. is at Aba. The High Chief Com. of Netherlands army declare they aren’t done for tho they’ve lost 100,000 men. They too have left Netherlands mostly. some gone to Dutch East Indies. No victories on either side. just heavy fighting.

Sat. May 18

Dad & Harry went exploring up the valley and found a hi water fall & many pretty places. Dad has had 4 men working this week & has the ditch done to the spring valley. Thinks in another week they’ll be here back of Frost’s house. Baked, & boiled down some salt so it’s clean and white. Gramaphone music tonight. Cl. walked in just here.

Sun. May 19

This is Mrs. Harlow’s birthday. Cl. got as far as Rethi & there they decided ‘twas best not to go to Aba as Gov’t is very suspicious of everyone. and soldiers are on all main roads. So he left the things for Aba. as folks will bring their children down next week & can take ‘em back. Don’t know when we’ll get the chairs. He brot most all I ordered from Bunia.

Mon. May 20

Just regular work. Only Cl. announced he wanted to get away on safari tomorrow. to the north end of the dist. so baked a lot of b.p. biscuits & will give him the bread that is here. Harry has gone to Miss Nowecks to fix the radio. She tried to improve it & got it so it wont work at all. If he fixes it we’ll go for the news. Harry goes with Dad to work on the ditch every day. He also has 4 natives. They did very well last wk.

Tues. May 21

The radio hasn’t been fixed. So there’s no news. and Dad does want so much to know what’s going on. We wish now Harrys had brot theirs. Cl. got away ab’t 9 A.M. I worked in garden a bit. Harrys ate at Miss Nowecks and are to go to Miss F’s tomorrow. Finished Sara’s letter.

Wed. May 22

Worked in garden some - and finished sewing one sheet. of Americani. Went to far garden for berries etc. Finished R’s letter and wrote to Helen and Mrs. Becker as a man goes to Oicha tomorrow.

Thur. May 23

Spent most A.M. in the kitchen baking lemon pie etc. Made serviettes this P.M. fringed them. but hadn’t dinner til after 1. Harry went back & worked this P.M. Every one to bed early. No news to listen to so why not go to bed.

Fri. May 24

Had over an hr. in the bulbs bed this A.M. then went to garden. Sent a man with a note to the folks at the Park telling them why no radio news was being sent them. Dad is just lost these evenings & he & Harry both go to bed by 7:30. Made another sheet this P.M. & cut 9 serviettes. Ladies will come tomorrow & help ravel them - or fringe them. Writing at Co’s letter.

Sat. May 25

Jno & Harry took lunch & went up the Lusilubi [large glacier-fed stream near station] valley and found some pretty caves. Came back by 2. Girls came at 3 & did all the serviettes & we had supper on veranda. buns & butter - some with cheese and pickles & fruit salad and several kinds of cookies & candy. Glad to have it all done. Finished Co’s letter.

Sun. May 26

Services as usual. We had hoped the man sent to Oicha would be back today. but no one has seen him yet. Wrote Mrs. Harlow. Evening service & chat. Wonder where Cl. is tonight.

Mon. May 27

When we were going to bed last night there was quite a rumble and some shake. Just don’t seem to accomplish much these days. it’s very hot & dry. We wish much it would rain. Sent post man and Miss F. sent man for things. But no Oicha man here yet.

Tues. May 28

The man Miss F. sent for things got here this P.M. & I suppose the mail man will take a couple more days. The Oicha man not here yet either. Some native told our natives that Germany had taken over Belgium! Miss N. killed a pig yesterday & we had liver for break. & chops for dinner & I’ve canned 2 qts & she made some sausage for us - as my last didn’t keep.

Wed. May 29

Oicha man finally came at noon. Brot letters from several & each gave the news. Allies still holding out against Germany tho several towns in France are captured. even Amiens which is half way to Paris. That was Sun night news. Dr. will bring later news tomorrow. Had word from D.C. at Beni Cl. must turn in all guns so have sent a runner out with the letter.

Thur. May 30

Mr. Harlow brot Dr. as Williams had taken the children to Rethi in Drs. Mr. H. had brot Kerstetters to O. because the little boy was sick. Radio news says King of Belgium & many troops have gone over to Berlin. What next? Battle is raging in North France. Some bombing has been done in S. Eng. but nothing much. As Mr H’s car is old & unreliable Harrys are waiting to go in with Cl. as Dr thinks he should take his guns in.

Fri. May 31

Cl. came in just after dinner. but wont go to Beni til morning. He’s pretty tired. Was on his way back. so didn’t do much good to send a man. Getting Ward order finished & will send with him but haven’t many other letters. He’ll bring the mail so we wont send next week.

My the mo. has gone quickly and very pleasantly. and like previous years enjoyed all our guests very much. We seem to have ‘em wherever we are. Hardly saw this a year ago. But how quiet and regular we are here compared with European countries.

Sat. June 1

Cl. etc got away in good time & back by daylight. Brot letter from Home Office with receipts in. How grateful we are! Also from Mrs Probst telling of death of Losiers little girl by drowning at Syabei - in drum of water. Too sad. Cl. says radio says Brit. troops are crossing channel returning to Eng. ready to meet Ger. attack! & Italy threatens to help Germany. Mr Bell is coming next Thur. for wk. end.

Sun. June 2

A perfect June day. but we’d like clouds & rain. it’s getting very dry. Quite a crowd out for communion - more than there were cups for. We had dinner at Miss Noweck’s. ‘Twas so nice and the kitchen help appreciated it too. Cl. had mtg this PM to get school work organized.

Mon. June 3

And he’s still going strong at 62! [John’s birthday] Cl. took lunch & worked at his car all day & not done yet. brake bands don’t fit. Have all boys working by job & not by day. Jno & men are bringing ditch down slowly. in chicken yd. now. Ladies here to supper and for music. Played Brand’s Symphonies.

Tues. June 4

Finished reading Bible thro. Cl. took lunch again & finished. Tonight he’s developing a film of pictures. I cut out the slip that I got material for from Ivy. It’s lovely material. Thot I’d get it sewn but no time after finishing mending. Made pineapple jam. Writing Warren birth letter. Had specially restless night last night. such hot flashes. 3 times woke up.

Wed. June 5

Jno worked at ditch alone. but the garden men did very little work. I got slip sewed up but not finished. Went to far garden and then tried to show these weed boys how to get the witch grass out. New chicken boy seem s bright & eager to please. Goes to school P.M. Will Mr Bell be here tomorrow?

Thur. June 6

Mr. Bell hasn’t come. Perhaps tomorrow. Baked bread & buns etc. sewed a pair of bloomers and almost finished N. gown. A.M.s are full of outdoor work. seeing that all work where they should. Set a rat trap in garden & something took trap and all. Want to get potatoes dug tomorrow.

Fri. June 7

No Mr. Bell yet so we are giving up. he’ll hardly come tomorrow. Finished sewing white slip. it’s very nice. cut out Bettys. want to scallop it & embroider the edge. Also finished reading “Enchanted Ground” by Temple Bailey. Writing Miss Slater. Cl. made me a nice ironing board.

Sat. June 8

Jno & Cl. went up the high hill just back of us. ab’t 11 a man came from Oicha with letters. Mr Bell went out itinerating among the Pygmies so they couldn’t come. Italy hadn’t yet entered the war but they were expected to any min. May make trouble here as she says she’s going to have no. Congo. Some bombs dropt in So Eng. & on Paris & Marseilles. Awful. Miss Russ doesn’t know where her people are.

Sun. June 9

Awfully hot. Things are drying up fast. Went for walk after supper & saw where the grass & banana trees have been cut for road. but hear now these men have been dismissed. so guess we’ll have to finish it ourselves. Read from Seiss Apoclaypse. Very good.

Mon. June 10

Studied a bit. worked at Betty’s slip like last year. Yes, Al said they heard those announcements [arrow to previous year, King and Queen visiting Manhattan] but never dreamed we did. Washed - & Asani waited to do his tomorrow. Took walk again to see where road should come. Started burning the bricks for the church. foundation all seems finished.

Tues. June 11

Last night ab’t midnight the roof over the kiln caught fire & then the drying sheds burned too. ‘Twas a big flame. Cl. says the bricks are ab’t done. O dear it’s so dry it’s no fun to go to the garden any more. as things aren’t growing nicely. We do wish for rain. Wrote Mrs Westervelt.

Wed. June 12

Can say the same ab’t this place - it is surely dry. [previous yr. entry about dry spell at Siyabei] Tho there was a shower today - it only dampened the grass a bit. Went to the far garden & got strawberries and tomatoes. but things are dry there too. Dad has the water almost here. Wrote Mrs. Probst.

Thur. June 13

No Dr. came & we wonder why not & hope he isn’t ill. The post came but not much. a letter from Helen saying they could not afford transportation charges now so wold not be able to come. We are talking ab’t things and may be we can get them. Miss Noweck needs dental work done.

Fri. June 14

Quite an eventful day as the water is here behind the house. quite a good stream and Cl. announced this noon his car is at the married people’s village - so we went at 3:30 to see where they are working & in another day or 2 they’ll be at the dispensary. Mostly grass to dig out - very few stones. Garden men moved chicken fence.

Sat. June 15

Men went to look ab’t irrigating - but find it almost impossible. Man came from Oicha. Italy entered the war June 10. Germans are near Paris. Dr. was to ill to come on Thur. but may next Thur. We are writing to ask if they’ll come right away for their vacation. Then perhaps Pauls afterward. Dr. needs a rest badly.

Sun. June 16

We got a man off to Oicha & Beni ab’t 9. and when we came from meeting an Oicha man was here with Fri. news from Williams. We wrote again & I sent a few cucumbers. An outschool teacher brot his wife in who was bitten by a snake. She will probably recover. Read again from Seiss. Rained very hard on the next ridge but none here.

Mon. June 17

The car is a bit nearer again. Now it’s in the banana grove. Guess ‘twill be here tomorrow as it’s mostly all cut & just some stones to take out. Dad working at the water ditch - as the water backed up. Thundered but didn’t rain. Harvested popcorn and beans. Made dill pickles.

Tues. June 18 Van Dusens wedding day.

Cl has the car under Miss Nowecks big tree. Some poles are ready cut for the garage. More big stones have to come out at the corner of N’s yard. Took a walk down the road to the village & up the foot path past the church. Found lots of strawberries to pick so will go tomorrow with several boys. Jno at water ditch. Lots of thunder but no rain.

Wed. June 19

6 of us picked strawberries this morn. & I made ab’t 5 qts of jam for Miss N. & us. When at the last kettle, the Oicha man came with letters & while looking at them the jam boiled all over the place. Such a mess. Paluku cleaned up. Then after supper the mail man came & letter from Mrs Becker saying they’ll come early next wk if possible. Paris has been taken by Germans because of treachery in French army.

Thur. June 20

Leveling the place where the garage is to be. When we awoke it was raining & had rained in the night. Then over break. it poured so water ran down hill. Now we’ll get things set out & more seed put in. Wrote Ivy today. Jno gets so sleepy & Cl. too goes to bed early so I can’t write very much after sup. & must get some off. Ivy’s parcel came. such nice things.

Fri. June 21

Prayer Day and Miss F. with A.M. school went to villages. I let both Matayo & Paluku go. Sambiri helped well. We had our prmtg at 8:30 as usual. I sowed some seeds below ditch where they can be watered. Wrote Lo as I’d like her to send a few things by parcel. Am trying Miss F’s sort of yeast.

Sat. June 22

The bread seems very nice. Men took lunch & went up toward the monkey-head. [hilltop above the mission] Coming back they ran onto a nest of bees & got stung up & dropt the panga [machete] & couldn’t return for it! I wrote Syabei women. Didn’t bake much. Will have jello & cake & canned sausage tomorrow.

Sun. June 23

There was a bad thunder storm last night. several hard claps. Every one seemed up & disturbed. There was a bright fire down toward the Park keepers place. but we’ve heard nothing ab’t it. Rained some but not hard. blew badly. some bananas & corn blown over. Meetings as usual. All rested this P.M. Have several letters ready to go.

Mon. June 24

No Drs. yet but no man has come either. I think they’ll send a runner if they don’t come. Wrote Mrs. Olson this eve. Getting garage place ab’t leveled off now. and are going at putting posts in tomorrow. The water is coming fine and plenty of it. He’s still deepening it in some places.

Tues. June 25

They came while we were having pr. mtg. Bells & Mother H. came too. So lovely having them all here. Drs. are here in the guest room. others in Becker house. All are tired as the rd. is pretty rough in some places. Garage frame is ab’t done. Rained a bit.

Wed. June 26

War news is very distressing. France has surrendered kabisa, [completely] fleet & all. What ever poor Eng. will do. U.S. sending ships, ammun. etc. Today was cold & rainy - hard rain this P.M. They all staid in their rooms resting. Tonight. gram. music. and they sat by the fire. I went down & visited with Mother H.

Thur. June 27

We women went to garden. Mother went part way down. Dr. went to hospital but says now his conscience is clear. he’ll rest. Finished Betty’s slip & knitted at sweater. Agnes read darky story aloud. They seemed to enjoy it. Cl. doing some sawing for Jim. Jim may go to Oicha tomorrow. & back next day. It’s so very nice to have all here.

Fri. June 28

Cl. & Jim went to Oicha. Cl. to see ab’t cash etc. The mail man finally came & brot only a parcel for Mrs Williams! & my stamps. Tonight I read “Music hath harms.” Mother & I had a good walk all ‘round the flower garden. Mrs B. & Agnes & Dr. went up to start of water ditch.

Sat. June 29

Cl. & Mr. Brand came just as we finished dinner. They put up the radio at once. Mr. Brands. Mr. Bell came at supper time but didn’t bring mail because the office didn’t open tho he waited til 3 P.M. Baked usual things. Got news at 6 also at 8. Russia has upper part of Roumania. Germany upper part of France. Italy other part. Germany has fleet too.

Sun. June 30

All mtgs. as usual. We got out old “Hearing & Doings” & every one enjoys looking at ‘em. & the old albums. Read from Seiss tonight. Then got news. Guess Eng. is pretty disappointed because France has given up - tho she says she will fight on. There has been some bombing in Eng. but not very much yet. Children are being taken out of the country fast as possible.

What a terrible mo. this has been in Europe and now news comes that Japan is going at Indo-China since France is done for. Churchill gave a talk this eve but either his voice gave out or some other reason he didn’t seem to finish. More bombing over Eng. but were driven away. Seems awful for such as Blaikies & Vollors etc who have children there.

Mon. July 1

Mr. Brand left early - no one heard him & Jim left about 11:30. He & Dr. fixed the ditch & brot the water down again. It now runs past Beckers house. Jim took mail & will bring it on Wed. Had good rest this P.M. No special news on radio. more air fights. some bombs in Scotland. not much damage done.

Tues. July 2

Went to far garden & helped pick strawberries. Agnes too. Had short cake for supper. & Ag. got 4 pts of jam. Just when ready to eat 2 officials came bringing sick child for Dr to see. They wouldn’t eat with us - then we had finished when Mr Schmitt came bringing Paul & the 2 girls. So glad to see them. girls staid & Paul returned but Mr Brand will go for them on Mon. or so.

Wed. July 3

Agnes’s birthday! Miss F. brot the cake first thing this morn. men & girls went to cut a path to picnic place but ‘twas terribly wet as it rained in night. Dr. Cl. & Helen got chased by bees. Had cafeteria supper. Miss N. didn’t come. Jim came but car got stuck nearly here. Telegram from Kens. They’ll get here 7^th. Seems Am. Consul told our A.I.M.ers to come up here for a while if they needed to leave their stations. So we may have several. Kens may stay at Oicha while Pauls are here.

Thur. July 4

Popped corn we raised from some brot from Kenya Xmas. Dr. went to dispensary this A.M. then had dinner with Mother H. & me & then went over to the valley to the rest who roasted potatoes & corn etc. They returned ab’t 3:30 & declared they had had a grand time. Now they say they must go tomorrow P.M. I’m sorry for I wanted them to stay 2 wks. at least. Brit. fired on & destroyed much of French fleet at Oran Algeria. They didn’t want to but had to. to protect themselves.

Fri. July 5

Had dinner promptly and then they left. My, we did enjoy them so much. Men are putting more grass on roof here & also getting it on the garage but it goes slowly. The guests left such generous gifts - God bless ‘em. Miss N. is almost sick with an awful cold. Started letter to Becca. Children played dominoes. No special news. We’re keeping the radio til Mr. B. comes.

Sat. July 6

The men & the girls took lunch & went up to the hi falls in the next valley. ‘Twas cloudy & showery all day. They missed the path coming back & scrambled thro brush & grass so the blue and lavendar dresses I loaned the girls are ready for rug rags. Wonder if Kens will be here tomorrow night.

Sun. July 7

Just as we were starting on our walk they came and L.H.D. [Lee H. Downing] too. We’re so glad he’s here too. Now 9:30 all are settled for the night. Had no evening service - too much to talk about. They say Council tells Miss Slater to stay at Durban. Mrs Davis is very ill & will have to have operation they will go to Mayfield [A.I.M. guesthouse in Nairobi]. Mrs Probst is at Kjb. Miss Zaffke too for work etc etc. Ivy feels fine. Daphne has grown.

Mon. July 8

Cl. brot up the long bench at noon. it’s fine. They came ab’t 5:15 neither Chas nor Paul so it was only 5 more & we were 9 with Daphne. & then Brand. He didn’t bring the mail so we’ll have to send a man tomorrow. Helen & all, even Brand sleep at Miss Frosts or Beckers house. I’m tired tonight. They brot lots of eats, but no pig. so Miss N. will buy one tomorrow for us.

Tues. July 9

They got away by 10. Every body but Ivy Daphne & me. We listened to news this eve & then talked & now it’s after 10! Spose those at the Lake are asleep long ago. Hope they are comfy. Miss N. bot a pig & had it killed. so we’ll have nice meat for a couple of days. It’s hanging outside tonight - hope nothing gets it.

Wed. July 10

They came back by 1:30 & all had drinks. Then Brand left for Oicha. I baked this A.M. & the boy ground the meat for sausage. We had liver & heart for supper. Dad’s leg looks bad. he cut it a bit with the panga a week ago, & it doesn’t heal. Knitted some at green sweater but made the wrong size so will open it tomorrow.

Thur. July 11

Jno was lying down most all day & we put hot salt water fomentations on his leg. Hope twill soon be better. Mail came & Mattie’s check. We may try to open an acct. at Bunia. Washed. and cooked all meat made sausage too. Takes a good many potatoes etc these days. and the cabbage they brot & lettuce comes in very handy.

Fri. July 12

Worked in kitchen all A.M. Am trying to help Helen to knit. She doesn’t hold needles very well. Baked bread & will again tomorrow. Dark & cold all day. & rained quite hard this eve. J’s leg is still pretty painful. Get a bit of knitting done evenings when news & music is on.

Sat. July 13

Worked all day even tho Hurlburts were all at Frosts for dinner. The older ones wanted to go for picnic but didn’t & it’s well for it rained much all P.M. Frost brot lots of mashed potatoes left over. Plenty for our dinner tomorrow on top of chopped meat & gravy. Didn’t even sit down for P.M. rest. I’m so thankful for the health & strength I have these days. Kitchen boys help well too.

Sun. July 14

Mtgs as usual. Dark & cold but no rain today. Wanted a short nap & slept 1 hr. Then wrote Rays. & finished 2 others. because Jno wanted to hear Churchill at 10 P.M. so staid up too. So thankful for all provisions we have these days as we 15 do need some. Popcorn was much enjoyed by all.

Mon. July 15

The 6 big children headed by Cl. went to Matwangas [Mutwanga] & got tennis shoes for some of them & then came back part way & went up the valley of the large river - second from here. Got back here ab’t 3. The girls wore old clothes of Cl’s. Chas may come tomorrow. Ken worked at translation. Jno went to garden. His leg seems to be healing. Men mudded walls of garage & Cl’s car is in it.

Tues. July 16

Baking and stewing takes up much of my time these days. We do eat. Got beds ready for Paul & Chas but no one has come yet. Mustn’t forget that Ivy’s birthday comes on Fri. The day after Rays. Mended today & this eve finished back of Betty’s green sweater. Do want to write Mrs Davis. Put in cuttings of roses.

Wed. July 17

Just the same old story cook, bake, stew but they all seem to enjoy their meals. & there are plenty of potatoes & rice and still butter here so we get on. Cl. & the 3 boys went for a hike way up the Lusiluby. Dorothy isn’t feeling very well - bad cold. Ivy & Helen Jr. washed their hair so did I. We bake bread every day & eat it as fast as it’s baked. Picnic lunches take a lot. No Paul & Chas yet.

Thur. July 18

And today 32. [Raymond] but I didn’t spend much time thinking ab’t him as I was too busy. Baked the cake for tomorrow. Dr came & Mr D. went back with him. so Cl. is back in his room. Ivy has moved out onto the veranda. Letter from Ray & some others but not many.

Fri. July 19

All went for a picnic but Ivy, Daphne & me. I baked buns and together we iced the cake. Again, I scarcely rested at all but am not terribly tired. While eating popcorn & listening to Hitler on the radio Paul & Jim & Chas & the two school boys came in. Got them some supper & Jim returned at once. boys are staying on.

Sat. July 20

Cl. & Ken & the 5 older boys went way up the river to the top of a large rock we can see from the church. I baked some & the boys cleaned & now we are ready for tomorrow. Shall open 3 cans of meat - the last; but Paul bot a pig & then couldn’t bring it on the lorry. Perhaps next week I’ll kill some chickens. Every body to bed early.

Sun. July 21

Mtgs all as usual. I got a good rest this P.M. ‘twas quiet here but guess Miss F. got little rest as the children played down there. Dorothy isn’t out and this eve Paul says she has measles. Natives here have them. Hope the rest don’t get them. Miss N. hasn’t been out all day to any mtg. Called but she was at dispensary. Sick man was sent up by Park man.

Mon. July 22

Just after break. Mr Schuit and Norman Camp came. They brot Mr. Sprout to Oicha as he is quite ill. Were going back this eve but tho it rained a lot this A.M. it cleared & they went up above the big rock from where they can get sight of the top. Each took blanket & water & eats. Ivy ab’t sick with cold. We bake bread every day.

Tues. July 23

Boys got back for break. but didn’t get a view of the top after all. Mr S. and Norman left right after break. taking the mail man with them. Then Cl. decided to take the 4 that hadn’t been to the Lake & go for the night, so we rustled chop box things around. Dad working at terraces. Paul intended doing my teeth today but we are all gad he went with the boys. Mr D. was going with Schuit to Aba til end of Aug.

Wed. July 24

The 5 got back at dark. having had a fine time. John is surely getting to be a real radio fan. Am trying to get a letter written to Chas for is birthday. We bake bread every day & I bake muffins some days. Dorothy is much better & eats some.

Thur. July 25

A picnic was planned for up at the hi falls. Paul worked at my teeth (2 fillings & cleaned) til after 11. Ken staid with Ivy so I went. ‘twas quite a scramble. but ‘twas grand. such scenery! Took picture of crowd & as we finished Mr Brand came. Lots of last things being done. Mr Brand brot our mail. Lovely letters from Lo. & Al. Mr Brand sleeps on camp cot in living room.

Fri. July 26

Every one busy. Paul worked at Ken’s teeth. They finally got away by 11. Then after dinner Cl & Ken went to Beni for the guns and will meet Brand returning & bring the pig. if there is one. Have got some cleaning up done but plenty left. Sour porridge at break. so had bananas only which pleased the children. Boys aren’t back yet 9:30.

Sat. July 27

We sat up last eve til most 11 hearing grand opera - & waiting for boys but they got back at 3 P.M. Were at Oicha all night. Brot the pig & parrot and cuttings etc from Katwa & other things from Beni. We cleaned & baked & so now we feel quite settled again. Wonder if Sara feels 30.

Sun. July 28

Mtgs as usual. Well do we all remember a yr. ago. [leaving Siyabei for Kijabe & Nairobi] Hardly thot then that we’d all be in Congo this year. Lots of things can happen in a yr. Finished up several letters. as a man goes tomorrow with the post. The parrot makes no trouble but is still full of fight if we get too near.

Mon. July 29

Killed the pig this eve & had liver for supper. Worked at the flowers. Had 4:30 prayermtg again but Miss Noweck has Catechism class today. Big washing - and lots must be done over. Don’t know what they did but the soap was all finished. Put in cuttings from Katwa. Writing Scudders.

Tues. July 30

Had a disturbing night. awful indigestion & pain. but slept tho had something like nightmare. However we got the pig cut & sausage made. meat roasted some & will put into jars tomorrow. Miss N. took half. we boiled the head & will try to make head cheese. Sewed crocheted ends onto linen cover for buffet. Wrote Hoyts.

Wed. July 31

Feel better tonight. wonder if its fever or too much pork! Sowed some poppy seed. Want to put in lots more, as it rained this P.M. A native wedding just before prayer mtg. Ken, Ivy & I played “Sticks” this eve. First time I’ve tried it. Nothing pretty on radio tonight. Ivy washed hair & did last things.

And now here we are at R. and if we thot we had a busy time the last 2 yrs. well we didn’t know Congo. Expected a busy mo. & we surely had it. But we didn’t expect D’s here. We’ve done it all as “unto Him”.

Thur. Aug. 1

Dr. came and just after we finished lunch Harters came. Miss F. was not ready yet for guests so we cleaned this guest room as soon a Kens got packed & now Harters are settled. Kens left ab’t 3 P.M. Daphne got up with fever & was feverish all day. Slept a lot. They left the radio for 2 wks.

Fri. Aug. 2

Harters are all settled now. Just at supper time - we had finished prayermtg when a car drove in we thot sure was Kliewer but it was the Park man & wife. Had a nice chat. They can speak Eng. some so we got on alright. Got news at 8. Man returned without guns but some post. letter from Ray & Sara.

Sat. Aug. 3

Now tonight Mr. Kliewer and Mr Williams came. We were just ready to eat tho it was 6:30. The men didn’t go for hike before P.M. as it rained all A.M. I baked cake for Harters anniversary tomorrow and one for Miss F’s birthday on Mon. Tomorrows is angel food iced. Mon’s is yellow and will be iced. Man returned very late so had supper after Mr K. & Mr. W. got here.

Sun. Aug. 4

Communion and other mtgs as usual. Quiet rest this P.M. while it rained pretty lively. This is Harters wedding anniversary. I baked an angel food yesterday & iced it. & had jello beaten with egg white. When I put the parrot out this morn. he flapt his wings & flew away. but some one found him & brot him back.

Mon. Aug. 5

Kliewer & Williams got away after breakfast. It’s Mrs W’s birthday tomorrow & I should have sent her some thing but neglected. didn’t think. Ladies ate supper here as it’s Miss F’s birthday. Icing was a bit soft but looked nice & tasted good. Popped corn & ate while gram. went as radio had no good music.

Tues. Aug. 6

The poppy seed I sowed on Sat. is already coming up. Dad is doing the terraces very nice & they’ll soon look very nice. Miss N. made so much fruit compote for supper last eve that she gave us a lot for our supper tonight. Caught Paluku taking sugar from table. Wrote Esther tonight.

Wed. Aug. 7

Went to garden. Jno is getting this top terrace fixed very nice & I’ll soon be able to sow more seeds. Worked at vocab. copying into the book Mrs. Williams started. My I wish I could study a bit more. My vocab is so limited. Mrs H. & I have nice walks after supper.

Thur. Aug. 8

’Twas raining when we awoke & kept at it all day. sometimes pretty hard. We bot a bit of pork so had sausage for dinner and will have roast tomorrow. Sambiri washed but it’s still on the line dripping. Finished Mrs McK’s letter. Am copying at Kingwana vocab whenever I have time. Fire in grate is very comfy.

Fri. Aug. 9

Planted some lettuce up here - also planted more of the white lillies out - filled the corner. Harters had dinner at Nowecks. Cl. went to make the crossing that washed away with the big water yesterday. Mended this P.M. Writing Rays this eve. Slowly weeding is getting done. piece work. Outschool teachers wife died.

Sat. Aug. 10

3 men went on long hike - didn’t get back til after 6. I sowed seed from Helen: calendula, spider plant, sunflower. No rain today. Baked pie & cake & got things ready to make a jelly in the morning. also bake beans with dinner fire tomorrow. Mrs H & I had nice chat over dinner.

Sun. Aug. 11

Services as usual. Park man came bringing sick man. Jelly didn’t jell so will have it tomorrow. Nice rain last night. Some sunshine today. so it was warmer. All rested this P.M. Chicken boy shut the setting hen out of her nest so fear eggs are spoiled.

Mon. Aug. 12

How well I remember a yr. ago. [returning to disorderly home at Siyabei after stint in Nairobi] There was an awful battle over the channel again yesterday when 64 G. planes were brot down - 26 E. ones were lost. During today only 16 G. ones have been destroyed. It seems Germany is getting desperate. We gathered lots of tomatoes. canned 2 ½ qts. Will send some to Oicha.

Tues. Aug. 13

Chief of this Dist. came early & said he wanted to register all. so boys all left til 11 A.M. Harters are getting things together to leave after breakfast tomorrow. It’s been quite sunny. tho is raining a bit now. Had a glorious sunset.

Wed. Aug. 14

Harters got away right after break. and I worked in the garden most all A.M. The radio says 789 planes shot down yesterday. Just now as I opened my diary I found an envelope from Mrs. Harter with Frcs. 300 in it. Bless her heart. Little she knows how we need it. We are staying up til 10:15 to hear Mr Eden speak.

Thur. Aug. 15

Dr. came & brot word that Ken’s baby boy was born Sun. morning. almost 10 lbs. Ken’s wrote but it must have gotten side tracked for nothing came from them & only 1 kilo of butter. Several letters. Mrs. Davis was in hospital after op. when a cyst and inflamed appendix were removed. Dr. wrote. Miss Slater has gone home. Rays still have no definite word ab’t boat. Sent radio by Dr. tho Dad didn’t want to. I went to Miss No.

Fri. Aug. 16

Prayer Day. I let all 3 of the kitchen help go. Asani washed dishes at noon & they got back in time for washing them - tho I got supper. Rained quite hard this P.M. I find I haven’t enuf wool for Bettys sweater so will write Mrs. Stephenson to get some & post. Am sorry but now may have enuf for a cap too. Only hope it’s still procurable.

Sat. Aug. 17

Dad & Cl. went up the hill for the day. saw & heard waterfalls. high ones. Radio last eve said 169 G. planes were brot down. We are going over tonight. Wrote Mrs Stephenson to get me more green wool as I’ve not enuf. Must be heavier than 3 ply. Baked & stewed.

Sun. Aug. 18

A beautiful day both “inside” & out. Rained pretty hard last eve. so every thing is fresh and growing. Just such a day when one feels near to nature and to her God. Nice quiet time this P.M. under the fig tree. Hard to realize there’s fighting and trouble just to the north of us - around the globe. Nice lecture tonight from Seiss.

Mon. Aug. 19

His birthday letter (Charles) is gone long ago or it would not get there by Oct. 2. Mails are very slow. Miss F. & we haven’t had any money for a long time. but we aren’t hungry yet. Hope twill soon come. Worked in garden some. Dad still working at drive around the tree by garage. Went for news. Another 140 planes down. Had a sprinkle.

Tues. Aug. 20

This eve just before dark a boy came & said elephants were on the hill side across the river. We faintly saw large objects in the grass. hope they don’t get into the garden. Men are starting to lay up church walls. Some are making brick. Am so glad they are at it.

Wed. Aug. 21

Didn’t go for news. It’s not so plain as Kenneths. Dad doesn’t hear it well at all. Finished Aunts’ letter. Picked strawberries and made jam - 10 glasses but 3 go to ladies. Cut out an Americani shirt for Dad. I’ll color it blue later. Will try to sew it up tomorrow. Am sewing a sheet too.

Thur. Aug. 22

Sewed up Dad’s Americani shirt. Hope ‘twill fit. Also finished sewing a sheet of Am. & will hem it tomorrow. Made tomato chili sauce. [arrow to previous year, Guildings going to the coast] Hope they’ll soon be back. Finished Mrs. U’s letter. They may be returning soon too. A man is very sick & Miss N. thinks he may have to go to Oicha then she & I will go too.

Fri. Aug. 23

Did a little of many things but not much of any thing. Am getting things lined up for Oicha tomorrow. Guess Dad will go too & we’ll picnic lunch on the way so wont trouble them when we get there. Mended & sewed several things. Amongst them a new mail bag. Wrote Rays.

Sat. Aug. 24

Got away by 8:30 got to Beni 10:30 but it took long at the office. Then a bit of shopping & stopt along the road & ate lunch & enjoyed it much. Stopt at W’s & washed up. Then while Dad had tea Miss N & I went to Bells & then to see David William Downing. He’s a fine big boy. Ivy looks well. Father D. had come with Williams from Rethi. He had a trip to Zemio & saw Bafuka too. As we came back we got mail which took quite a while and got into heavy rain. Got here 7:30. Left sick man at Oicha.

Sun. Aug. 25

As we couldn’t get the cash needed at Beni Cl. decided to go to Bunia, leaving here this P.M. We came home in Ken’s car as Cl’s was not running right. He got away ab’t 1:30. Word came in post that boats are going regularly from Matadi to N.Y. and we are wondering if Rays wont want to change plans. A letter from him told Cl. to send a check to the Jap line reserving passage on Dec. 4 boat. but Cl. hasn’t enuf in the Bank to do it. So now we are wondering what they’ll want to do. Sent them a letter.

Mon. Aug. 26

Kinda quiet & lonely around here today. Dad worked along the ditch - making a better bank. Planted horse radish roots from Blukwa. Canned 2 ½ qts toms for Agnes. Miss N. canned some for Miss Edna. and broke one jar. No rain. Going to get news. Lightening. Wrote Miss Love. She sent very nice basket & mats. I had ordered them.

Tues. Aug. 27

No Cl. yet. so without doubt he’ll come in tomorrow. Went to both gardens. Lots of strawberries ready but will wait til Thur. & send a good lot to Oicha. Shortened and mended the brown crepe dress. Rained pretty hard just after dinner. Wrote Helen.

Wed. Aug. 28

We’ve waited til almost 9 & he isn’t here. Likely is working on the car. Dyed the old corduroy bath robe royal blue & Jno’s new Americani shirt too all look pretty good. Looked at dress pattern this P.M. but didn’t cut it out as I want to make another shirt for Jno.

Thur. Aug. 29

Now he’s here. Got back just at prayer mtg time. so we didn’t have mtg. only Miss F came. Dr. was here & we sent strawberries & vegs & potatoes. My there’s lots of food in the garden now. It rained a bit just at noon. does most every day. Couldn’t send all the berries so am jamming some. Cl. brot more cloth for shirt so I’ll get at it.

Fri. Aug. 30

Cut out 2 & sewed up one of Dad’s blue native cloth shirts. Cl. brot very nice material but only enuf for 1 shirt. Ironed Am. colored one & it looks very nice. He keeps saying I must make trousers! Mrs. Williams did but I’m to dumb for that. Dad thot sure K’s would be in but I look for em tomorrow.

Sat. Aug. 31

Jno & Cl. went for a scramble & got almost to the elephant tree. I baked & cleaned & fixed up kitchen cupboards. Washed & ironed curtains on french doors & boys cleaned glasses. When Paluku went for water he saw elephants had been in the garden. Trampled squash vines pretty badly, and ate some corn & pineapples but tho there were lots of tracks not much damage is done.

And war is still on, worse than ever. A Mission station in Sudan was bombed and 2 Ams. Killed & 2 wounded. A very out-of-the-way place too. Kenneths will likely come on Mon. and in another mo. we’ll be counting the hrs. almost til Rays come. Now we hear Miss Slater is on way home & rest H is closed.

Sun. Sept. 1

And today Warren is 50! our baby brother. Wonder if he’s received my letter. Communion Sun. again. by the next one Rays will no doubt be here. Took a long walk down to the bridge & as we were coming back it began to rain so stopt in a house. Twas hot work walking fast up hill.

Mon. Sept. 2

Picked Strosberries & made a bit of jell but more to make tomorrow. No Downings yet. Elephants were in garden again so Cl. asked some men to watch. We just came from N’s hearing news & heard men in garden. Germans sunk a ship with 320 school children on - all were saved. Still bombing. it’s awful to hear & must be far worse to be in it.

Tues. Sept. 3

No Kenneths yet. I fear some one is sick. My how well I remember a yr ago, [at Siyabei, war breaking out, people adjusting] & all the awful bloodshed & misery this yr. has had for many. All boys but Matayu went to Matwangas to buy clothes. About finished Jno’s blue shirt No. 2. few button holes to do. Think I’ll make myself kitchen apron of what’s left. I need some.

Wed. Sept. 4

Made quite a lot of strawberry jam for every body but ourselves. haven’t any bottles. want to make strosberry jelly tomorrow. They ripen so fast these dys. Made sweet pickles too today. We don’t understand why D’s don’t come.

Thur. Sept. 5

Last night at 12:30 Kens drove in. They had been run into by a SHVN lorry & pretty badly banged up. but got in. I made tea & fried eggs & by 2. all were in bed. Cl. & he worked on the car til 3 P.M. then left for Beni in both cars hoping the owner of the lorry will fix up the car. Ivy is pretty badly bruised up. Daphne fell out but wasn’t much hurt. We all have parcels at Beni - mine from Lo is there - & hope Cl. will bring all back. but we have no idea when they’ll come tonight or next wk!

Fri. Sept. 6

Had washed my hair and was getting it dried when they came in at 9:30. Got them supper & had to hear news, so its 11 now. Van Dusens are coming Mon. also Brand. The SHVN folks at Beni said he’d have to go or write headquarters at Aba. So he wrote a full report & sent it. VD’s brot post from Irumu. K’s got Kenya mail. R.V. A opens Sept. 17. They can’t make it by that time.

Sat. Sept. 7

Baked & cleaned as usual. Fried down 4 tins of sausages and roasted the ham partly. Had chops for dinner. Miss F. brot some lovely jelly tarts. If Mr. MacIntosh comes with Brand he’ll sleep down there in the small room. Just sprinkled a bit. Rained pretty hard last eve at dark. Good for the seeds we sowed today.

Sun. Sept. 8

Nice quiet day. All mtgs as usual. & good rest. and good read. Wrote some to Oicha folks in order to have it ready, if Vans come tomorrow. Baby David seems rather fussy some days but is pretty good mostly. Its so nice having ‘em here. This is day of special prayer in U.S. also Eng.

Mon. Sept. 9

Van Dusens came just a bit before 12 and Brand ab’t 1. The parcel from Lo is lovely - a pink & a blue dress and a whit crepe & 2 pr. shoes. & stockings & a pot holder. or some thing. She thot the pink would be too small for me but it isn’t. Nice letters came too. 2 amts. of money - Praise the Lord. Now we can pay Cl. Radio news is awful these days. London is being bombed hrs & hrs at a time.

Tues. Sept. 10

Vans left ab’t 10. Sent some vegs with them. Pressed dresses & they do look nice. Will put hems in tomorrow. Radio went squiffy suddenly after getting first part of news. Almost finished Lo’s letter. Mr. Brand sawing. Ken. working at his car. Men want to go for a climb Fri. & Sat.

Wed. Sept. 11

Cl & Ken went for elephants & tho he shot one in the head 4 times yet it wouldn’t stay down. Now, almost 8 P.M. some men come & say there are some in a village below the hospital. Hope they don’t get into the garden. he’ll likely go for them in the morning. Worked a bit at Miss N’s rug. radio wont work so we’re going to miss N’s for news.

Thur. Sept. 12

MacIntoshes, Alice W. and Carl came also L.H.D. who is staying. Brand, Alice W. and Carl had picnic lunch miss F. too. I baked mulberry pies & bread & biscuits. At lunch Cl. Ken & Brand decided to go to Bunia for various things. so we 4 are alone & babies. Lots of lightening tonight. may rain. Asani helped iron baby’s things. Sent lots of vegs. such as they were.

Fri. Sept. 13

Buckingham Palace bombed again today. No one hurt. London has been bombed every day for a wk and today several day time raids. Some damage done & some deaths but R.A.F. brot down 91 planes & damaged others. Seems awful. It is almost 10 & no boys yet. Its been a very cloudy day. clouds blowing in so much & this eve some rain. Wrote Jessie. Picked strawberries & made ab’t 5 qts of jam.

Sat. Sept. 14

Baked & stewed. canned 3 qts toms & 2 qts mulberries & have large dish ready for dinner tomorrow. Worked a bit at rug for Miss N. Boys came in last night ab’t midnight & went right to bed. Had all sorts of trouble. puncture, rain, poor lights but got here. I didn’t hear them. Rained here hard this P.M.

Sun. Sept. 15

Services as usual. The radio was out of commission but the boys got the necessary tube so it’s going again. Didn’t get any writing done as Mr. Brand has his bed in the living room where my writing materials are. Got quite a lot of reading done. Rained some again. Will Rays be here in 3 wks? Hope so.

Mon. Sept. 16

At day break Cl. & Ken went after an elephant near by & got it ab’t 9. Then went after another but they left after being shot at. ab’t 2. they came & said it would be cut up so Ivy & Daphne went to see it. Babe slept almost til Ivy came back just before 4. Course boys were all there so I got supper. 3 Belgians came ab’t 5:15. 2 told of their trip up Ruwenzori. 185 planes brot down yesterday.

Tues. Sept. 17

Tore & sewed some blue rags today & tonight crocheted at the rug. ‘Twont take long when I get all rags cut & sewed. Miss N. told me today her parcel contained a rag rug! Well, perhaps she can use 2. I can’t get any thing else ready. She has new curtains at the windows. Very nice. Battery played out tonight. It’s Cl’s. now Ken’s is in. Mr B. sawing all day. Men are beginning at Miss F’s house tomorrow.

Wed. Sept. 18

Baked bread & buns. Rains some most every P.M. Found a hen setting on 7 eggs on one of the roofs of the house. Sowed radish and Lespedeza seed from Jess. M. like alfalfa. ‘Twill be good for chickens. Ken works at car every day. They want to leave next week. L.H.D. will likely go Fri. with Mr Brand.

Thur. Sept. 19

Cl. went after elephants. & Brand couldn’t make the turbine go so he loaded up & they left for Oicha after lunch. Cl. got the elephant he shot at so much the other day. He got back ab’t 5:30. Have rug ab’t finished. then want to hem the two dresses from Lo. No mail to speak of. Ivy sewing at green dress. Father went with Mr Brand. I weeded poppies this A.M. head felt very bad. but better tonight.

Fri. Sept. 20

Getting letters off to Oicha to be taken to Rethi by school folks. Ivy writing to folks along the line that they’re coming. Kitchen help all but Paluku went to get elephant meat. Chicken boy is sick. Finished Miss N’s birthday present rug. Not so large as I wanted but didn’t have more pretty rags.

Sat. Sept. 21

Dad & Cl. climbed up to a point we had seen from the road. Said it is a wonderful place. Came back just as a hard down pour started. Ken worked at his car all day. I thot Cl. should have helpt him. Baked & stewed. A wild cat got a chicken last night, & chewed the head of a second so we didn’t kill 2 that Miss N. had given us. They set a trap for it.

Sun. Sept. 22

Every thing pretty much as usual. 13 yrs ago today we sailed from N.Y. after our last furlo. How fast the years have passed. London is still being bombed. This is the 15^th day. When will this awful war stop? Rippentrop & Mussolini have been in Conf. again. & are still good friends. Next Sun. if plans carry Kens will be at Nyangkundi.

Mon. Sept. 23

Made a nice lot of strawsberry jelly and that’s ab’t all I did besides the extras. Ivy is still at her green dress. The King spoke over the radio & the ladies came to hear it as Miss N’s battery is being charged. They staid for the news too. Caught the wild cat that caught our chickens - at least we hope it’s the one.

Tues. Sept. 24

Picked strawberries and while not so many as sometimes still made some jam. Sent Miss N. her rug & a bottle of jelly made yesterday. She appreciates both. so glad I iced the cake yesterday as I’ve been busy all day. It looked nice but the pudding didn’t stand up as it should have. spanish cream & strawberries. Starting the red sweater for Sara. 7 jelly.

Wed. Sept. 25

No post yet. A leopard got a goat at Kimanis village early this morn. & tried to get another in daylight. so they set a gun trap. Now it’s raining hard & lightening some. Fixed the new blue dress from Lo. & tonight knitted at red sweater. Have one pat. done.

Thur. Sept. 26

Busy day as usual when Dr. comes. Miss Russ came for a few days. Also Mr. Schmit. He sleeps in his car. Miss R. is with Miss Noweck. Quite a nice mail. from Kenya & some from home. Word from office of $50. but not from Bank yet. How grateful we are for it. Forgot to ask Dr ab’t his projector so will just wait til R’s come & see ab’t it.

Fri. Sept. 27

Kens are still here tho he worked hard to get things done. & thot he was ab’t thro when he found the engine wouldn’t turn over so had to take some apart. Miss Russ wants to go with them if they have room. If not she will go with us on Wed. if she goes with them we wont go. Dad went with Mr Schmidt to look ab’t a site for a small farm. Rain again. Helen sent spider plants & shastas.

Sat. Sept. 28

Cl & Ken worked all day at the car & tho it is all put together yet it knocks pretty badly still. Now they hope to pack up before breakfast. pack car, I mean. Ivy has things packed. Dad & Mr Schmit cut a path to the place he wants. All are tired tonight. I fell flat in the kitchen today but no harm done. Supper was late and very uninteresting!

Sun. Sept. 29

They finally got away at 10. Then I went to 2^nd meeting & when I returned I saw they hadn’t taken the radio. How Cl. laughed. He bot it & didn’t tell us. Thot of Jessie today but didn’t get at her letter. When I look over the record for a yr. ago [feud with Shaffers] I do feel sad & I wonder if it was necessary - perhaps I’d not have learned some lessons without those experiences but I wish I might have. Read more of Bauman’s articles tonight.

Mon. Sept. 30

Wonder if Rays are at Aba tonight and if Kens are at Bogoro. I mended & with Asani to help I cleared out the guest room - put all things into the sun. swept wiped walls & washed windows. Now ‘twill be pembed on Wed. & then ‘twill be ready. Wrote some letters. Mr Schmid will post tomorrow. School opened. Discovered today the milk man has been bringing milk short & keeping the money!

Sept. has been a happier mo. than last year especially the latter part. Twas so nice having Downings here. and now looking forward to Rays soon coming is pleasant anticipation. Can’t see I’ve accomplished much. only did the every day things. I hope I glorified Him in it all.

Tues. Oct. 1

Just mending and ironing & other duties occupied my time today. Mr Schmid left ab’t 10. He left Frs. 200 for use in any way. Getting things cleaned up. also some letters written. Found all Ken’s stamp stuff back of the organ.

Wed. Oct. 2

What a surprise we got ab’t 7:15 when Rays came walking in. They were up on the veranda & at the door before we saw them. Now they’ve eaten and are getting to bed & we too. Sambiri & Asani worked fine & we got all the floors pembed & I got their room ready but didn’t expect them til tomorrow so haven’t flowers in the other rooms.

Thur. Oct. 3

Every body went to see the elephant cut up - but Betty & I. She was very good ab’t it & played very nicely by herself. Every one rested long this P.M. Rays are going to Kenya & take the first boat they can get Am-So Af line. Claudon is not sure of going with them . All advise him not to go.

Fri. Oct. 4

Unpacked & set up the sewing machine. They brot lots of lovely pieces for quilts and quite a lot of nice rags for rugs. Picked strawberries, had short cake for supper and made several bottles of jam. This eve walked to the head of the water ditch. Knitted this eve & had phono and radio.

Sat. Oct. 5

Went over to Paradise picnic place for lunch. Miss Frost went too. Miss N didn’t. Am boiling drink water today but haven’t told the men. News on radio is much the same - Germans dropping bombs in Eng. & English doing same in Germany & other enemy countries. When will it end?

Sun. Oct. 6

A very precious communion service & collection for B & F. Bible Soc. [British & Foreign Bible Society] of Frcs 174. There were 282 in attendance - babies & all. Read 2 Bauman arts. and how they do make one think. Plans now are we go to Beni & Pauls tomorrow. The men go hunting & we take care of the meat at Pauls. If we learn at Beni we can go to Kenya & Cl. can take his car - we will all go for a trip with Rays.

Mon. Oct. 7

Got away at 9 & stopt at Office. Cl must ask at Kasindi if he can take his car out. While eating lunch 10 mi. beyond Beni, Mr. Deans, Harlow, Bell & Alice Wentworth came but when we told them Paul was away they returned. Got to Pauls at 2 & men went on to Kitsombiro. Sara, children & I are in girls’ room double decker beds.

Tues. Oct. 8

Helen is busy all day in school so S & I had nice chat & knit - I’m at Helen’s - for Paul. She can’t get much done at it. Started a letter home but only a start. Guess it must be Al’s birthday letter & Xmas. Paul came back this eve with Mr Schmit.
So we are 23 tonight. But Helen knows how to manage. Wonder if the men have finished hunting. Hope so.

Wed. Oct. 9

Paul & Mr S. went to Butembo so I went too & bot necessary things. When we returned at noon men & meat had arrived so we got busy & canned & made sausage til it got dark but all is done. & we can get away in the morning. Dorothy baked birthday cake for her Daddy. All are tired. Did canning etc at Miss Buchanan’s.

Thur. Oct. 10 Home [Ruwenzori]

Got away ab’t 9 & stopt again at Butembo and at Beni and ate lunch just before crossing Semliki. Got here before Dr. left. Expected Littlejohns but only he came & went back as Dr. is giving him treatments. They’ll come later. Mr Senff was along too. All are tired. Had nice baths & all unpacked. Rained a bit.

Fri. Oct. 11

Kitchen help picked strawberries & I made shortcake for supper & jam. Sara made some bibs for B. and we partly sewed her corduroy coat. She tried on the blue knitted suit & is proud as punch ab’t it. It does look nice. Gathered such a lot of cucumbers today. Natives trapt an elephant in a pit near here.

Sat. Oct. 12

Men went exploring. Sara washed her hair & ironed & helpt in kitchen. Seemed to take me very long to get baking done. Baked King Ring - sort of coffee cake. We had some for supper. ‘Tis very nice. Wrote Spees they could come in Nov. & Grimshaws in Jan.

Sun. Oct. 13

Wonder where Miss Slater is celebrating. [birthday] Somewhere in U.S.A. no doubt. Services as usual. This eve we had the childrens service after supper. They sang and John preached. It ended in some commotion as we all were bursting with laughter - Betty sings & motions so cute. Read a Bauman article.

Mon. Oct. 14

Baked bread & buns for trip to lake. Ray pressed up his suits so I pressed Cl’s too. Smehow I seemed busy all day. no rest. helpt Ray develop picture films tonight. My roll looks pretty good. Cl. showed me how to charge a battery down at the turbine.

Tues. Oct. 15

Got away about 9. and ate lunch early along the road & went down & saw hippos. Then when crossing plains before getting to Lake saw ab’t 10 elephants very near the road. Ray took pictures. Got to the camp & saw a lone elephant - and lots of hippos. Also saw lots of waterbuck and several buffalo. Cl. sleeps in dining room. We in 1 hut & Rays in another.

Wed. Oct. 16

We all felt rather upset yesterday. Cl was sick in night & R today. but men went for walk & played with hippos. Sara, children & I went to Lake & waded a bit. ate dinner then packed up & went 28 mi to the rest house at Mukonjo’s school. Watched the Mt. Saw more buffalo & elephant very close & drove over 2 huge black spitting cobras. both crawled away. Very nice place to see Mt. only it’s quite cloudy this eve.

Thur. Oct. 17

Lovely moonlight & some were up to see Mt. Was fairly clear this morn. but clouds blew in & we left after breakfast & got here about 9:15. Another 28 miles. Matayu was baking bread. Mail had come. Yarn to finish Betty’s sweater & I’ve got a lot done already. A good many more ships have been sunk since last year.

Fri. Oct. 18

Prayer Day. Boys picked straw berries - such a nice lot. We had shortcake, also ladies & I made 9 bottles of various sizes of jam. Cut out the lining to Betty’s coat. Almost finished her green sweater. Caught a civet cat in trap in garden. It was eating our popcorn. Man went to Beni for reg. letter & parcels. Betty was so cute today in a dk brown dress Lo. made her.

Sat. Oct. 19

Radio says 80 acres of oil wells near Torrance Cal. are a fire. Must be a sight. What a loss to some folks. Baked & stewed. Men went to Schmits place got back ab’t 3 & just after that it rained quite hard. Sara finished Betty’s corduroy coat. & tonight I finished green sweater & started a cap.

Sun. Oct. 20

All mtgs as usual. Ab’t 3:30 all wanted to go to first bridge for a walk - all, but Dad. he said we’d miss the 5:30 sermon on radio - & then that it was going to rain. but we finally persuaded him. We didn’t go all way down & then took shortcut & hustled back before it rained pretty hard. Had jello & birthday cake for Betty. she was so cute ab’t it all. but the pretty doll got most attention. She wore her green sweater with yellow dress. & was so cute in it.

Mon. Oct. 21

Cl. left ab’t 8:30 to see ab’t some elephants & by 10 or so he was back & had killed one. Then all the workmen went for meat. & kitchen help wanted to go but none did as it was dark & rainy. Started the green cap. will finish with white wool. Am knitting like the blue one.

Tues. Oct. 22

Knitted quite a bit today at the green cap. Sara is cutting out little squares to sew together to make sofa cushion tops. Mail came right after breakfast. Rays heard from Bafuka and Leo’ville ab’t best way to get home. They were advised to go to Capetown. & they may have to. We heard from Mr Westervelt. & that was all.

Wed. Oct. 23

Finished the green cap & had enuf green wool. & a bit left. It looks real nice. Have things somewhat ready for Oicha but still plenty remains to be done. Sara finished John’s red sweater too. It’s very pretty. Baked this A.M. Gathered vegs. for Dr. to take. Will have all hands go at picking strawberries in morning.

Thur. Oct. 24

Started for Oicha before 9 but met Dr. just beyond Matwangas & he told us there is small pox at Oicha. a native brot there has it so he is vaccinating and advised our returning - so we did & were all vaccinated. Now, as some one must go to get Littlejohns and papers must be fixed up at the office we’ll go on Mon. & have the pictures Mon. night & return on Tues. & they can still get away on Wed. if they must.

Fri. Oct. 25

Were off for the valley where Mr Schmit wants his farm. by 8:30. Took 1 hr. to walk from the road up - but what a sight. A huge boulder lies on the precipitous walls of the valley or gorge & the water comes tumbling down over rocks. The children had a good time & so did we all. Back by 1:30 as it got dark & rainy up there.

Sat. Oct. 26

Baked buns & bread & date cookies & squash pie. Miss Frost made rolypolys for our dessert. & says she’ll do the dessert for Tues. night so have asked them to eat with us as twill be the only chance to see Littlejohns. Went up to falls by Dad’s new path & it’s very nice & easy. Crossed river once on stones Cl arranged. Made jelly for tomorrow supper.

Sun. Oct. 27

A lovely quiet home-y day. It rained this P.M. so we couldn’t go for a walk but later we went to the garden. It’s hard to realize that by next Sun. we’ll be scattered and the Lord only knows when we’ll be united again. But He does know & that’s all that matters. May we be guided continually by Him.

Mon. Oct. 28 Oicha

Got here before 12 tho it took us quite a while at Beni. The trip was uneventful except that in one place we were crowded to the side so we struck a rock & bent fender & the petrol drum sprang a leak & had to be emptied into the tank. Mr. Littlejohn isn’t well enuf to go tomorrow so will wait til Wed. Tried to see pictures but bulb for lighting was broken, so couldn’t. Bad wind storm this P.M. blew several trees down.

Tues. Oct. 29

Knitted quite a bit. Rained again some - not so hard as yesterday. Agnes is better today tho didn’t sleep much last night. her arm is better. Mother is better too & comes out to break now. Saw Spees. They hope to come over on Fri. Our arms - Dads & mine are getting bigger & sorer. Also Jno’s & Bettys. Lots of natives here with bad ones.

Wed. Oct. 30

Got away in good time but as we left Beni we found road closed because of repairing pontoon across Semliki. So hurried back here for lunch and so as to head off making over the beds. now all are ready again for us. Misses Love & Olson came in this eve. O. to see Dr. so stays with Miss Edna. Love here with Agnes.

Thur. Oct. 31

We might have gotten home this eve or tried to but John had a temp. of 104 so Dr. said wait til tomorrow. and Mr. Littlejohn can’t go either. They will come with Dr next Thur. Spees will come Mon. likely. Knitted up all the wool I brot along. Wrote Helen too. Saw Agnes’s school too. All very interesting and enjoyable.

One could hardly imagine 2 mo. as different as this & last year [feuding with Shaffers at Siyabei] have been. We are having one grand time together and aren’t sorry their going has been postponed a bit. We want only His best for us all. Why this delay here? He knows. It wasn’t in our plans.

Fri. Nov. 1 HOME. [Ruwenzori]

Got in by 11:30. John is fine today. Miss F. brot all she had made for us & the boy had baked bread so we have plenty on hand. Had no mishap but came thro fine & find all well here but some sore arms. Got things unpacked and put away. Wrote Mrs Shaffer tonight. Nice music on radio.

Sat. Nov. 2

Ab’t 1 A.M. the Park man Mr. Wilde called us, asking if Miss N. could come as his wife was having labor pains tho baby isn’t due til next mo. Cl. Ray Sara & N. all went & they decided to take her to Oicha. so all went. S & N. riding with him & her. They got there by 4 & were back here by 8:30. so all of us have been pretty tired today. I baked pie. that’s all. Brand is back & Williams got a boat at once for Durban & Aus. so are on the way. Makes Ray eager to be off.

Sun. Nov. 3

Was sad last Sun. for I thot ‘twas our last together & here we still are altogether. One should not be upset by the future for we never know. We’ve had a quiet restful happy day together. Communion meeting and a lovely walk this P.M. Hoping much Dr will come in on Wed so they can get away Thur. Will I have the sweater done?

Mon. Nov. 4

Spees came in time for supper. Brot mail & box from Kenya etc. Finished body part of sweater & started a sleeve. 13 yrs. ago today we landed in Mombasa. Wards sent our parcel Aug. 21 so hope twill soon be here.

Tues. Nov. 5

Baked & took care of strawberries. had short cake & made some jam. Men went up the ridge toward the baboon head [hilltop above mission] then came back along the river. Rays pants were in tatters & they were tired. Ray made fudge - developed Miss N’s film. We got U.S.A. but no election news was in yet. Had popcorn.

Wed. Nov. 6

Rays are pretty well all packed. They hardly expect Littlejohns as Spees said he was still in bed. I spent all A.M. baking etc. can’t seem to get at sweater much but tonight I’ve done a good piece - some after going to bed. Had picnic lunch at Lusilubi but Mrs. S. didn’t get down as babe was crying. Dad has cut a very nice path down or up, as we get very near the falls.

Thur. Nov. 7

Dr. came before 9 and brot only Mr. Sprout. So Rays packed the rest of the car & were off ab’t 9:45. Cl. with em of course. So glad they could get away. Wonder where they are sleeping tonight. They hope to make Kaimosi by tomorrow night. We’re so glad Spees are here. They will move up here in the morning. Sara took sweater & will finish sleeves.

Fri. Nov. 8

Spees moved up here as it is much handier for them. Dad & he went to Schmits rock & up the valley but it rained so they came back early. We hadn’t eaten, when they came so we all had tea together. Mended & made a tiny dress for Asanis baby. Gave boys each 2 Fr. from Ray. for good work. Gram. music tonight.

Sat. Nov. 9

Baked do nuts, pie & cake also bread & buns so have enuf to last awhile. Had strawberries for supper. Rained all A.M. but was pleasant for awhile this P.M. & men went for a scramble. Made old sheet into bed spread by putting yellow strip down center. Wrote Ivy this eve.

Sun. Nov. 10

Mr. Neville Chamberlain died last night - and this morning Tapali, a workman here, died. He has been sick since we took him to Oicha in Aug. An earthquake in Rumania has done much damage. how much, is not yet known. Mr. Spees spoke at A.M. service. Quiet P.M. with a walk just before supper. Getting mail ready. Man goes to Oicha.

Mon. Nov. 11

Never thot ab’t Armistice today - but John Scudder is a yr. old. Wonder so where the children are. Spees said today they ought to go on Thurs. We are sorry & wish they could stay longer. Nancy slept well today. They seem just like our own youngsters.

Tues. Nov. 12

Baked some. Rained all AM so Dad & Mr Spees couldn’t go picnicking. Finally got strawberries picked this P.M. Had short cake for supper. Will jam some tomorrow. Spees say they must go on Thurs. I’m sorry for they haven’t had the rest they need. Nancy has cried very little today. Making a coat for her from what was left of Bettys blue.

Wed. Nov. 13

Surely by this time Rays know something more ab’t their getting away. They were to stay at Powleys in Nairobi & Cl would be with Dr. D’s at Mayfield. Charged the extra battery today. 9 British ships sunk again & several Italian gun boats destroyed in Med. Seems so awful.

Thur. Nov. 14

Spees got away ab’t 9:30. Took a live pig and a box of vegs. Pig goes to Lolwa but the vegs only to Oicha. Asani wanted to go but there was no room. I got at pieces - and dresses - to see what to cut up and what to save. Partly pieced the cushion top Sara cut out. It’s very pretty. Canned some tomatoes for Oicha folks.

Fri. Nov. 15

Prayer Day but no prayer letter. Post man hasn’t come back yet. Miss N. says no man will go & come in less than 6 days. I wonder. She sent some of the pig she had killed yesterday. Canned 3 qts. She made sausage. finished sewing the little pieced cushion. ready for feathers.

Sat. Nov. 16

Post man got here just after noon. Was delayed 2 days because Bells were at Pauls. Home letters. Lo is sending another parcel also guest book. Remittance has been sent. Thank God. The Tax Col. in Nairobi wrote again and wants to know where we paid tax ‘40. Writes as tho he hadn’t had Dad’s letter so we’ll write again. Miss N. doesn’t like the post coming to Oicha. So we may change back.

Sun. Nov. 17

Miss F is miserable with a bad cold. Was right down yesterday but attended mtgs today. I have a bad head most every A.M. by eve it’s better. Guess I’ll take Atebrin if it doesn’t clear up. [arrow drawn to previous year, wondering when Claudon would arrive] Now he’s in Kenya again. Joshua took both mtgs as Daudi is sick. Wish so Dad would try but he thinks he can’t.

Mon. Nov. 18

Monkeys have been eating squash in the garden. Kiwa is setting a trap. Made a n.g., a pr. of pillow slips and mended Grandma’s wool piece fence corner qilt. and began cutting rug rags. Want to make one for Miss F for Xmas. but must get Pauls sweater done too. Miss N. not feeling well either. Miss F seems better. Wrote several letters this eve.

Tues. Nov. 19

The big work today was canning 4 qts tomatoes for Oicha. Ironed a lot of the new scraps of dress materials and will cut blocks some time. knitted at sweater and had nice undisturbed quiet time. Wrote several letters this eve. Hope Dr. brings stamps tomorrow - no, Thur.

Wed. Nov. 20

In all my 35 yrs. of life in Africa I’ve never before had the experience I have had today - ab’t daylight I felt something like a jigger in sole of my foot & found not one but 6 and in most toes some two and in other foot just as many & even in 8 fingers. Couldn’t think where they came from but boys say the store house where I got potatoes and picked up some things lying ab’t. We’ll pour hot water all around & hope to clean it out.

Thur. Nov. 21

Dr. came & brot Lo’s parcel also M. Ward parcel. Some old letters from last June - don’t know where they’ve been. Tried charging the battery but before twas quite done the belt tore so will finish in the morn. Dr. fixed aerial better and the reception was grand this eve. Lo’s parcel is grand too. Took more jiggers out.

Fri. Nov. 22

Kiwasiwamu pembed our room & closet & it took him all A.M. but did a good job. Finished charging our battery and also did Mr. De Wilde’s. 4 trips to the turbine. Now the other battery must be done. Got parcel things all put away and boiled up some roselle jelly - seems to be more like syrup. Sambiri went to help de Wildes as their cook is sick. so K. will come tomorrow & help clean. Paluku is sick.

Sat. Nov. 23

Paluku came but wasn’t much good. Kiwasiwamu cleaned sitting rm. & veranda & got bath water hot & scalded out the store house. De Wildes came ab’t 4. weighed the baby and we all had tea together. She speaks some Eng. so we had a nice chat. Baby is gaining & they seem very proud of him. & grateful for our help 3 wks ago.

Sun. Nov. 24

Now Cl. & we have exchanged places since last yr. Wonder so where they are these days. Meetings as usual. Daudi preached twice today. Mrs. Daudi is ill with bad cold & fever. Neither Miss F. nor Miss N. were at first service. Miss F. is better but not very peppy yet. Paluku doesn’t care much abt work either.

Mon. Nov. 25

Sent a man to Beni and Oicha and hope he’ll hustle back. Paluku is better but not peppy and shows he’s been ill. They seem willing to do Sambiri’s work. Ki. washed today. I staid right there & helped tho there wasn’t much. Started sleeve and wonder if I can get both done this wk. Will try.

Tues. Nov. 26

Had our battery charging today but doesn’t seem up as it should be yet, so will leave it a while longer tomorrow. then put on the other one. Pigs were in the garden again and are digging up potatoes. Spose they’ll get the corn tho there’s nothing on it yet. Guess we’ll ask the ladies to supper Thur – Thanksgiving.

Wed. Nov. 27

Still charging batteries but the last one is down & should be done by noon tomorrow. Canned 4 ½ qts tomatoes. and got strosberry juice ready to jell tomorrow. & peel cut for cake. and cucumbers for pickles. Pretty big program. Washed hair. Getting Xmas cards ready for Kenya folks.

Thur. Nov. 28

One never knows what a day may bring forth. just ab’t 3:30 Grimshaws and Miss Wightman came in. Had to leave the car as it got too hot. They couldn’t let us know but they thot it better for Miss W. to get away now. She so greatly misses Miss McCord. They brot lots of nice things - especially nice mail. Chas S. has been seriously ill but recovering. Ivy wrote Rays got there 2 wks ago today - but no word from them.

Fri. Nov. 29

Wonder if they are celebrating where they are. Tidied up the sitting room table putting all things away. such a stock of papers to read. Am using Cl’s room for my rest room. Dad took Mr. Grimshaw for a long walk. I canned more tomatoes. Men sleeping in the garden for elephants are around.

Sat. Nov. 30

Usual Sat. work. Jno & Mr G. went up to nice cave & tho it rained they didn’t get wet much. Miss F. made a nice coffee cake for tea. so we had quite a substantial tea - late because De Wilde came ab’t 4:15. and then we had no supper. Sambiri came with them. but returned again. I don’t want him while Asani is here.

Quite a pleasant mo. on the whole - especially the first 6 days. Rays leaving wasn’t pleasant but seemed the right thing to do. We’re very glad to have the Todro folks here now. We do pray God will open the way for Rays to get off for U.S.A. if that is His will. Some trying times lately but He gives peace.

Sun. Dec. 1

The last mo. of 1940 has begun. The yr has passed so fast. Jno took the second service also the communion service. He didn’t seem nervous - he spoke longer than Cl. usually did. but kept the attention of most. Miss F. said he did very well. Dinner all together and evening service. No walk as Mrs. G. should not walk much.

Mon. Dec. 2

It’s nice to have Asani on the job. So washing is done & ready to iron. I got some letters off - but now I want to get the sweater finished so I can send it with Dr. on Thur. Started the second sleeve. We had tea & then supper late but no one wants it that way so we’ll eat as usual hereafter.

Tues. Dec. 3

And now we wish we had their plans. [this date previous year Raymond wanting their plans] Mrs. G. got up for breakfast but felt so badly has staid lying down all day. At first they thot they better go to Oicha right away. but then decided to wait & see how she felt after lying down. I made the first sleeve too long. must shorten it. have 2^nd half done.

Wed. Dec. 4

What happy times God has given us in these last years. We are happy now - tho not together. but we just trust all are in His keeping constantly. Mrs G. staid down all day. do hope Dr. will allow them to stay on here. Have letters pretty well ready. Partly charged Miss N’s battery.

Thur. Dec. 5

Dr. came & brot mail but very little. not a thing from the boys. Mrs. Littlejohns came to to get some things out of their trunk. He is getting outside a bit now so hope they can soon come. Grimshaws stay til next Thur. Mrs. gets up for meals. A man went with Dr. to bring medicine from Oicha and our post from Beni. Boys letters may be there.

Fri. Dec. 6

Finished Paul’s sweater. band at turbine kept coming off so worked at that and when went down at 4 the whole works was stopt. River is way up as we had quite nice rain but must have been very heavy up higher. Paluku lost lid of tea kettle that was cooling water. Will see tomorrow what can be done - something must be clogging it.

Sat. Dec. 7

Baked and stewed as usual. Men went up the hill across the river which is still high. De Wildes came again. baby is gaining nicely. Mail man came but brot nothing - but said he had a letter but lost it. We can’t quite make out if it was one we posted & was being returned or if twas one in the post. Miss N’s radio is all off - a clip broken.

Sun. Dec. 8

Mr. G. spoke in Bangala and Daudi interpreted. all seemed interested. Some of us were still talking after dinner when Dr B. drove in. They are having awful time with sin amongst the infirmiers - so several have left & even the most responsible one, Benjamin. Dr. wants Joshua to go over. his wife doesn’t want to.

Mon. Dec. 9

Did various and sundry things besides desserts etc. Collected all silk stockings etc ready to cut for Miss F’s rug. Men worked at turbine all A.M. but all efforts so far are in vain to start it. Wish Cl. were here because he understands the insides. Had news and that’s all.

Tues. Dec. 10

Baked squash pie & ginger bread. The men worked at the turbine all A.M. & came up just before noon saying it is going fine. Mr G. put his battery on. One of ours needs doing and Mr de Wildes too. Had news etc. this eve. Italians are attacking places in Egypt.

Wed. Dec. 11

The turbine runs fine. did Mr. G’s battery. All but Mrs. G. went up to cave above the falls for lunch. Finished up letters and got things all ready to send with Gs tomorrow. Shall send same man that went last week & see if he can find the lost letter.

Thur. Dec. 12

They got away ab’t 8:30 - took Joshua for work at Oicha. Mr. G. was quite sick in the night with cramps in bowels. Got hot water bottle and soda. Was better this morn but not very peppy. They & Miss W. each left an envelope with money. more than they should have. God bless ‘em. I’m cutting silk stockings etc for rug for Miss F. for Xmas.

Fri. Dec. 13

How well I remember a yr. ago and 2 yrs ago and 3 yrs ago. [approval to go to Congo, visiting northern Congo, camping in Masai country] and now Cl. is there and we are here and hoping there’ll be a letter from him tomorrow. Got our battery charged & brot up as the one was done for but have de Wilde’s on now. The belt broke twice sort of tore out and took some mending. Cut at rags but must do mending soon.

Sat. Dec. 14

And tonight the mail man got in - and had 3 letters from Rays. Last was written from Mombasa where they expected to get a boat but when they went to make final arrangements were told it was booked up full. Cl. is with Paul B. [Barnett] who will likely bring him back. De Wildes were here tho couldn’t get up in the car but walked the last part.

Sun. Dec. 15

The sun was very hot & we thot ‘twould rain but it didn’t and ‘twas lovely sitting out on the lawn talking ab’t Rays & Cl. & where they may be. How we do pray Rays may soon get a boat. Jno spoke at second service and all seemed very attentive. Wrote Sara & began one to Grimshaws. Wish we’d have a chance to send ‘em to Oicha before then.

Mon. Dec. 16

And this yr. tho we’re living together yet we don’t know where he [Claudon, birthday] is. Jno thinks they’ll be here for Xmas but I don’t know. If there’s no letter Thur. then they may. Ab’t 11:30 my eyes blurred awful I had to lie down and then my head got real achey. Wonder why. Turbine ran all day but wheel seems loosening. shakes hard.

Tues. Dec. 17

Finished reading “The Lure of the Labrador Wild”. I don’t know when I’ve read a book that effected me so - such disappointments as they had. Seems we Christians don’t do much or suffer much for Christ compared to what men will do for a name. Worked at turbine but couldn’t fix it. Dad says wait til Dr. sees it. Started crocheting the silk rag into rug for Miss F’s Xmas. Made guava jelly.

Wed. Dec. 18

My we are slipping to the end of 1940 very fast. Well, we aren’t sitting outside of Rosenblums this yr. Wish we were sometimes - especially if we had plenty of money. Got a good start at the rug. Worked at letters this eve. Hope Dr. brings wire telling R’s have sailed.

Thur. Dec. 19

Dr. came and Bob Deans and mail but no wire - but Littlejohns had one from them asking if they should book them via Pacific. Sounds like Rays might be getting off that way. I hope so. too many ships sunk on Atlantic to be nice going that way. Bob & Dad looked at and fixed turbine. put de Wildes battery on but don’t know how much it did. Will see in morning. Washed hair tonight. Guest book came from Lo.

Fri. Dec. 20

Prayer Day so some of the help went with Miss Frost to villages. I made fondant. [arrow drawn to this date 1938, made fondant] also fudge for tomorrow also clarified some lard of Miss N’s for do nuts I’ll make tomorrow. Worked at rug & it is growing but fear I haven’t enuf rags to make it as large as it should be.

Sat. Dec. 21

Baked pie bread & donuts. The latter took such a long time. De Wildes came as usual. Miss Frost made Cape tom. sauce to eat with buns. ‘twas very nice. Had no cake just buns, donuts & candy - fudge I made & some other sent from Oicha. Had Schenectady, N.Y. on radio til after 10.

Sun. Dec. 22

Meetings as usual. Jno took the second. Dark & threatening so couldn’t go for long walk. Eng service at 11 was good. Finished home letter. Wonder what Al is doing to celebrate. [birthday] Wish I knew where Rays are. Japan threatens U.S.A. if she helps Brit. too much!

Mon. Dec. 23

Finished Miss F’s present, the rug. All wrapped with a tooth brush dressed up with it. Sent a man to Beni & Oicha and another to find a sheep but he returned after dark and said every one refuses so we’ll have to have chicken. Am giving Miss N. a book “Women & the Way” & a box of candy. Fixed up guest book this eve.

Tues. Dec. 24

Miss F. helped me make up the fondant and we made sea foam after dinner & decorated the rooms. I had a bad head at noon but took aspirin & it got better. They both came over for music & we got some til ab’t 9:15 then the lightening got too sharp we had to turn it off. Gave them their gifts as they went.

Wed. Dec. 25

Xmas is over. Quite dif. from some. Had 9 A.M. mtg outside 300 at least present. Col. Frcs 450. Carolers came a little after 5 but stood at garage so didn’t disturb any body much. Miss F. did salad. Some one sent a lamb this morn. I pd Frcs 30 and told them to keep it for me til I wanted it. Chickens were nice. green peas. succotash. mince pie. Radio was good most all day. King Geo. spoke at 4. also at 8. Wish we knew where our family is tonight.

Thur. Dec. 26

Sports were on both A.M. & P.M. with plenty of rain between. Wanted to start turbine but water was squirting out too much & no time to fix it before sports. Started knitting pillow top & opened it. Dad fixed veranda steps toward garage. on Tues did the terrace. All very nice now. No post man yet.

Fri. Dec. 27

No post man yet! Guess he’ll get no matabisi. [tip] Put a battery on to charge but the water squirts out in so many places & the wheel jiggles quite a bit we sorta’ wonder if we’d better wait. had hoped to hear today how long til Cl. comes & act according. No rain tho threatened a lot. Dad is straightening up the road & filling in a lot in front of N’s house.

Sat. Dec. 28

Post came ab’t 9:30 A.M.!!! & baking & jelly making etc. but no letter from either boy. however, Agnes wrote there was a telegram which she opened & read to Littlejohns but she didn’t send it on. Mr. Brand & Carl came in ab’t 8:45 & Mr B. says they sail Jan. 7 by a Dutch boat. Germans have bombed an island in So. Pac.!!!

Sun. Dec. 29

Had all services as usual. Got letters ready for Mr. Brand to post and deliver. Asani came with Brand but since I don’t need him he will return with him tomorrow. We wonder whether Joshua will be ready by noon tomorrow. he says he will. Guess there wil be a load, but hope I can send some vegs.

Mon. Dec. 30

Heard Roosevelt this morn. then Jno & Carl went up the Mt. with lunch. Brand & his load got away before 11. We were surprised. All sorts of things went wrong at the turbine - belt breaks and now the connecting wires keep breaking. so Miss N’s battery isn’t getting charged very fast and 2 others waiting to go on. Men rebuilding chicken house.

Tues. Dec. 31

Dad worked at road & the garden men helpt but didn’t do as much as he wanted them to. They are so slow. I’d like to dismiss them & take others on. At 3 Dad & Carl went over to Paradise & were back at 4. Dad says some one has cut a lot of trees up there & spoiled things pretty much. They want to go to hi falls tomorrow.

And here ends the year. and what a year for thousands in Europe. Almost a whole year for us here in Congo. What have we done? God knows. I know I wish it were more. Will the Lord tarry another year? Will the war last another year? Doesn’t seem it possibly can.

We praise God for His mercies to us and to all of His own and pray for grace and wisdom and love to carry on as He wants us to. Will Rays be back by next year? They hope to be. May God keep them as they go. Shall be glad to hear they have arrived there safely.

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