Florence Minch Stauffacher Diary – 1944.                                                                                Index

For Your New Year [clipping]

What things this year may hold (!!!)
        No one of us can tell;
        Its days are in His hands
        Who doeth all things well.

Let’s take them, one by one,
        With faith and courage strong,
        Knowing Who gives the days
        With each will give a song.
                                        H.A.C.

Sat. Jan. 1

Again making a good start. Usual weekly work. Miss F [Frost] made sandwiches for tea. De Wildes came. The baby is growing. She brot a sort of little waffle that she made - very nice. Had do-nuts & iced ginger cookies. My cold continues pretty nasty. Finished read Helen of Old House. H.B. Wright.

Sun. Jan. 2

Started having Sun. Sch. 4 classes then church at 10:15. Cl. takes 1^st Sun. & Dad the last of each mo. I staid home as I cough a lot. Mrs Ingels & daughter came for med. Miss N. [Noweck] also gave me some. I think they are helping. Cl. read New Year sermon by Numoeller.

Mon. Jan. 3

Coughed awful in the night so came & slept on couch. but a rat wanted to be there too. F’s & N’s [Fords & Nortons] are planning to go to the Lake tomorrow. Hard rain ab’t 4:30. Gl & I visited garden this morn. Dad will have the water ditch running thro today.

Tues. Jan. 4

Folks got away by 4. Got down by 7 so were earlier than necessary. Saw lots of animals & brot lots of fish. Gave boys each one. They are all pretty tired but wouldn’t have missed it. Even saw a leopard. Got some pictures. My cold seems going down my chest.

Wed. Jan. 5

Mail man came with butter & mail. My pen came from Uvira. several Xmas letters - card from Stams at Capetown. will probably get a boat this mo. No note from Agnes. so no Willsons have come yet. Dad is getting water thro garden.

Thur. Jan. 6

Ab’t 4:30 Jim came bringing a bag of Engelbrecht. & one of Pillsbury flour and a tin of kerocene and a box of sugar. So glad for all. He has bot a load of flour to take back. Pauls are coming there for the wk. end to celebrate Mother’s birthday.

Fri. Jan. 7

Just after supper Jim came back - he had left right after break. & when he got to Beni he found Misses Zaffke & Ridgway there. They had chanced it up that far. so he took them to Oicha for lunch & brot them out here & ½ ton cement for the turbine. We’re glad the ladies got here so soon.

Sat. Jan. 8

Jim didn’t get much flour. they were too well sold out. Sent Mother a few rose buds. He left (by mistake) all the letters we gave him to take so Fords will take ‘em Tues. Went for picnic to Paradise Valley. Had pop corn & chocolate candy. & checkers. Miss F. over.

Sun. Jan. 9

I didn’t go to any mt’gs as I still cough some & the boys all stay when I’m here. S.S. was larger than last Sun. Gl. stays with the small children. Cl. goes to all classes. Wrote at some letters. Cl. read the sermon tonight.

Mon. Jan. 10

Made 12 glasses of strawberry jam. Mrs. F. takes 3. they are her glasses. Had shortcake for dinner. & stewed peaches for supper. Miss N’s tree has quite a nice lot on. ours are still very green. Made 2 glasses jelly too, of peaches. Fords leave tomorrow.

Tues. Jan. 11

Gl. fixed up the tiny room for Miss Z. so they are quite comfy. Dad fixing walk from bath room door to toilet. so there are no steps down. just gradual slope. Fords left after breakfast. and we do miss them. They are lovely folks.

Wed. Jan. 12

Jr. sick all day with fever - tho better this eve. My head was bad too so took atabrin & aspirin. Have been having headache so think I’ll take a bit of atabrin. My turn for pr. mtg. All our colds seem to be getting better.

Thur. Jan. 13

Iced cakes & Gl. decorated Jr’s with pink & green auto. 2 candles for lights. Miss F did not come for supper but Miss N. did. Mail came before break. Several parcels & more to come with Dr. tomorrow. I feel better today & Jr. does too. Gail writes Miss H died Jan. 4. Thank God.

Fri. Jan. 14

Dr. came & Helen Jr & Verna with him. He also brot some mail & lots of paipai for which we are so thankful. Letter from Willsons to say they haven’t their med. Cert. yet. and letter from Esther Griffin saying she expects her baby Apr. 27!!! Would like to come here before & Oicha for the time.

Sat. Jan. 15

And now it’s berries again. Made a lot of jam yesterday & 3 qts canned & today Miss N. sent a bucket of peaches. made jell of peel & 2 pies & dumplings & 2 qts canned & enuf for tomorrow supper. It’s lovely having them - ours are still small & green & very few. Music this eve.

Sun. Jan. 16

Went to S.S. It’s very nice & well organized. 4 classes - could be more if there were more competent teachers. Started reading addresses from “Keswick in London”. Seems just as good as ever. Every day by noon have rousting head. take aspirin & it’s better.

Mon. Jan. 17

Just as we finished dinner Mr. Williams brot Mr. & Mrs. Willson. so we were busy all P.M. getting things ready for him to take. he left ab’t 3:30 after tea. He brot my repaired shoes I had sent to Stan. They look very nice. I am grateful for them. 2 other pairs must go now.

Tues. Jan. 18

Miss N. brot more peaches yesterday & we picked strawberries. I canned of both. & made jell of peach peels. Gave W’s morning tea. They are quiet but seem to enjoy the other guests. We play Chinese ch. [checkers] which is new to them. Miss A. knitting thimble pattern sweater of Gl’s pink wool. I’ve started blanket.

Wed. Jan. 19

More peaches. My. I am thankful for them all. Nice pr. mtg tonight. Miss N. led. It tried to storm but rained only a bit. Took passport pictures of Nortons and they took ours.

Thur. Jan. 20

Ab’t 11:30 Bells drove in. So nice to see Agnes. but not long enuf. Killed pig & gave them half. Had hi tea & then they left. Got pictures of Cl & Gl by chairs & table and by chest of drawers Cl has just finished. Miss F came & played checkers. I got a letter off.

Fri. Jan. 21

Quite sunny today. More peaches but not much work with meat. ‘Twasn’t very large. Mail left after pr. mtg. Had very interesting time as each told something of triumphs and difficulties. When we were walking this eve. Cl came with car & we went to see the Mt. from hotel - but clouds blew in.

Sat. Jan. 22

Cl. took all but Gl. & me to second valley - overhanging rock. Came back for dinner. Mrs W. & Miss. N. pretty tired. Baked & cleaned as it was sunny & pleasant. Had pretty free P.M. as I made 4 glasses jelly this A.M.

Sun. Jan. 23

Quiet day. I stay home & let all help go to both meetings. I’ll go on communion Sun. Wrote to Albert S. this P.M. Try to review all the verses for the week. It’s not so terribly difficult learning a verse a day. perhaps because Psalms are familiar.

Mon. Jan. 24

Well it’s not this year. [arrows drawn to previous two yrs. “HOT”] rains quite a bit so folks are planting gardens all the time. Getting things a bit ready for Deans. Wanted to go for picnic dinner but it rained.

Tues. Jan. 25

They came ab’t 11. Miss Kandle with them so they were 10. All ate lunch here & at Gl’s. for supper. Misses Z, R. & Hiles & Mother & Dad D. were at Frosts. The rest ate cafeteria here. Spees are up in Dad’s house. Cl & Gl in tent & Bob & Mary in their room. Miss Kandle with Miss Ridgway in corner room.

Wed. Jan. 26

The passenger car got away ab’t 9:30 but the truck needed a tire mended. Dad D., Bob & Mr. Norton rode in it. We had tea before they went. We seem so few for supper even with Cl & Gl here.

Thur. Jan. 27

We do miss Junior as well as his parents. Every one busy getting letters ready as the post came last eve. Miss Bryden is near Stan. & wants to come. Shaffers are offering to take Nortons home. & then go on from there west. I hope they can. Cloudy & showery.

Fri. Jan. 28

Dr. came and the ladies went. so now we’re only 5. How I wish I had pembe. I’d do these rooms while we are such a few. Got a few letters off. Cl. & Gl. speak of going to south schools next week. He is painting the car. Gl. made a “gingham dog”.

Sat. Jan. 29

Ab’t 6 P.M. the “Yellow Peril” came in. We thot they’d take Nortons home. and they would have but N’s had too much baggage. so they went on with some one else & S’s are here til Feb. 17 or so when they leave for Stan. where they meet N’s. They – N’s - are buying the car. Miss Day & Miss Shryock are flying home. $750. from Usumbura. Were seen at Irumu today. A few local letters.

Sun. Jan. 30

Had 2 roast chickens for dinner, & cleaned ‘em up slick. Cold & cloudy so had grate fire. Wrote Mrs. Guilding. reviewed verses and finished “The last Trail” by Zane Gray. We are getting lovely milk these days.

Mon. Jan. 31

Mr. S. helping make a path up from the garden to Cl’s house. But this eve has bad head and fears fever. Men want pay but Mr. de W. says hold pay for taxes - Feb. 15. No butter today. Mrs. de W. says may come Wed.

Tues. Feb. 1

I seem to do so much of nothing noticeable. Baked berry pies. put in rose cuttings. Mrs. Willson not so well but comes to all meals. Expect Imhoffs any day.

Wed. Feb. 2

Mail man came after supper - brot Beni mail only - as S’s had brot ours on Sat. They are ready to move up to Dad’s house any time Imhoffs come. Dad has started a path to the garden just beyond Cl’s store house. ‘Twill be much closer for them. Got a pig finally.

Thur. Feb. 3

Mr. S. superintends the men below working on where the turbine will be & Dad is making path down. They killed quite a large snake where they are working. Gl getting SS lessons ready.

Fri. Feb. 4

Just ab’t dark Jim blew in - told folks to bring flour and he ate supper and listened to 8 P.M. news then Mr. S. took him to the village where he’d parked his car which was loaded with flour. and he left. Says he is leaving for Stan on Sun night. Mr. S. pretty well finished digging place for turbine.

Sat. Feb. 5

Dad has path open now down the precipice back of Cls. to the garden. He took all up the river & we took lunch below falls. All rested in P.M. & this eve had music & funs & pop corn & peanut brittle. No Imhoffs yet. Wonder if they are coming.

Sun. Feb. 6

Communion and such a crowd to S.S. Gl’s class of little folks now numbers 150. Quiet day - dinner late as I forgot to say to Busairio you come. so it was late getting started. The Keswick address I read was very good. Mr. Willson sang for us too. He has a beautiful voice.

Mon. Feb. 7

Since S’s are here it behooved us to celebrate. [Roy David Shaffer’s birthday, 1925] Grace made & iced the cake. Had Cl & Gl to come - not others. Took snaps. As Dad & men were working on path down to garden a stone up above them loosened & hit Muhindo who went rolling down with it. He walked up & Miss N. thinks there are no

Tues. Feb. 8

broken bones. We thank God ‘twas no worse and if it had happened a few seconds sooner Dad would have gone down. Cl has decided to go to out schools tomorrow since we’ve heard Vans wont come til the 15^th or so. Baked & got break & lunch for 7 going to lake tomorrow. Every one pretty tired tonight so had music til 8 & then news & then bed.

Wed. Feb. 9

They got away ab’t 4 or shortly after. and Cl. ab’t 9. so we’ve had a quiet day. Gl. eats here while Cl is away. She led pr. mtg. They got back ab’t 8 - brot 25 fish & had a great time. saw many animals. No post man yet. Just when we want him he doesn’t come. Most boys had day off but cleaned fish this eve.

Thur. Feb. 10

No rain for a wk. so are turning water into garden. It sprinkled just a bit. Every one pretty tired today. Got a small pig. So thankful as I had sent Salumu to find one but he said he couldn’t “see” any. Played Rigoletto and we all enjoyed it. Mr. S. has made table for back yard - to dry things etc. plenty of uses for it.

Fri. Feb. 11

Dr. came bringing Van Dusens as their car wasn’t running well. Also mail bag arrived early and such a lot of mail. Books from Lo. and enlargements from Ray & letters and thank God, remittance. We hustled S’s out into the tent. The 2 girls to Gl’s. They leave early in the morninig, for Katwa & Oicha. Had music. Mr Willson singing. Mrs. S. violin & Dad organ.

Sat. Feb. 12

I took a tumble last eve & feel my ankle today but not bad. S’s were off by 6. Mrs. not at all well. and so undecided as Am. Con. wrote them not to come West - but go South. Mr S. wants to go back to Kenya but they may go down the Nile. Gl. got the striped dress done for her. Had to send a man with Drs letters as mail man left & I didn’t know there were letters.

Sun. Feb. 13

It is hot today like Feb. in low places. Clouds up a bit but nothing comes of it. Would be glad for a good rain. Services as usual. Cl. is supposed to be at the southern most school today. Guess he can’t get back too soon to suit Gl. It’s nice she has Miss Hiles there.

Mon. Feb. 14

While we were resting Jim & Amstutzes came - also Mary Grimshaw. A’s and G’s are on their way south for home. Said they met Shaffers. Mr & Mrs. only. on way to see Searles. Girls in school at Katwa. They left after hi tea and by 6 Imhoffs were here. They have the 2 rooms at Gl’s. So we are ab’t full up again. Tired. but glad Imhoffs got here at last. Mrs. Stough getting weaker - sleeps lots.

Tues. Feb. 15

Mrs. Willson is having bad filaria in her knee. Baked & worked in kitchen all A.M. Mended this P.M. but 5 comes so quickly. Vans had dinner with Miss Frost. Played Ch. cks. this eve. I’m crocheting sweater for Mrs. Griffin but its too tiny. I’ll use larger hook.

Wed. Feb. 16

Cl. came while we were eating dinner. Gl. baked 2 berry pies and cut out my house coat. after seeking long for pattern. Dad led mtg. It’s nice to have Cl back again.

Thur. Feb. 17

Gl. is busy with many things so wont get my housecoat sewn right away. It’s going to be very nice. Mrs. Shaffer’s Xmas gift to me. crepe with red cherries. Gets cloudy but no rain yet.

Fri. Feb. 18

Matayo Mate brot his pig & Miss N. killed it so we have meat over Sun. She gave us ab’t ¾ of it. Not very large. The mail man came this morn. but no mail from Beni. Baby Imhoff’s vaccination is causing fever. Lovely pr. day service this morn. All gave items of interest for pr. & praise. All seemed to enjoy it.

Sat. Feb. 19

Not much baking to do but was busy all the time. Had cafateria supper - 16 in all without baby David. He is better. Had a very nice time and music this eve. - gramaphone. Sent post man this morning with instructions to be back Tues. eve. I wonder. will he? Mr. Van & men decided where guest house should be.

Sun. Feb. 20

Twas a lovely morning but by 11 was raining and showery most all P.M. We are very glad for the rain. things were getting pretty dry. Mtgs as usual. Wrote Mattie this P.M. Read Keswick add. Mr Wilson sang several songs for us.

Mon. Feb. 21

All packed & ready for Lake trip tomorrow. Put 2 seats in Cl’s car. All going but Dad & me. We all washed but didn’t stop raining long enuf to dry. Was raining bard at supper time. Men worked very little.

Tues. Feb. 22

They got away by 4:30 and got back 8:30 so had a long day but saw lots of animals. Willsons & Miss Hiles said there were many more in sight than the last time. Brot fish & boys cleaned & salted for tomorrow. Gave each one one. & the guest boys & Daudi. The day passed quickly here - I went to garden & saw hole for turbine. ready for cement.

Wed. Feb. 23

Every one pretty tired and children quite cross. Asked Mr Van if he wanted to lead pr. mtg but he didn’t, so I did. Had fish 2 times & will have creamed on toast for break. A great treat tho these were not so fresh as those Shaffers brot.

Thur. Feb. 24

Hate to think of Vans leaving tomorrow. It’s been a real pleasure to have them here. The children haven’t been any trouble. Finished reading “Queen’s Necklace” Dumas and began “First Violin” Fothergill. Mail man came P.M. He got to O. so late he hardly caught Tues. post so now he will be pd off & we’ll see ab’t another.

Fri. Feb. 25

Dr. only, came; no ladies. so I’ve written them ab’t coming next time. Had quite a hard quake at 2 A.M. Dr. said hardest they had had at Oicha - but we’ve had harder. Rainy all A.M. but finally got berries picked. Huge dishes for dinner. 3 qts to Oicha. Short cake for supper. 2 ½ qts canned & over 2 qts jam.

Sat. Feb. 26

We sure miss Vans. Had quite a time getting some one to go with post this morning. Salumu went. Played checkers for awhile but as the battery is being charged there was no news so all went to bed.

Sun. Feb. 27

Services as usual. Dad preached. Like a lovely June day til ab’t 3:30 then threatened but didn’t rain. Gl. was quite miserable yesterday and not at all peppy today. Read a good Keswick add. Mr. W. sang some. News ab’t as usual.

Mon. Feb. 28

Cl., Mr. W., Mr & Mrs Imhoff & Miss Hiles went up to the pt. early to see the snow for the night had been so clear. But clouds blew in & they saw nothing. Finally the large stone blocking the path from Cl’s down to garden was loosened today. Now soon Dad will go at the guest house. Cl. is at cement for turbine.

Tues. Feb. 29

Salumu not back yet. Hope he hasn’t gotten sick. Some grass burning these days but not like last yr. It is getting dry. The regular rains aren’t started yet. Had dandelion grens. Very good.

Wed. Mar. 1

Early this morn Miss N. called Cl. and asked if he’d take a maternity case to Oicha. her Meronja’s wife. Gl. & Miss Hiles went too. They got back by 7:30. She had her baby in the car ‘tween Beni & Oicha. How glad they were Miss H was along. Babe wouldn’t breathe for a long time. but finally did.

Thur. Mar. 2

Getting mail off. Cls brot a bundle of stuff from Shaffers. Davis cabled he is trying to book them. so they’ve gone toward Leo. Left Lolwa Tues. Miss Zaffke sent Gl. nice things. Very hot today. Milk curdled while boiling.

Fri. Mar. 3

Cl. & Mr. Imhoff took food & went up the Lusilubi. It’s been HOT today. Threatened rain but none came. Got Ngelese off with post. Enjoying the fresh pork again. Miss N. killed.

Sat. Mar. 4

Cl & Mr. I. got in just before dinner. Rained hard after break. No mats could go out. Ab’t 7:30 this eve a car light came down hill. Williams bringing Miss Meloon. So glad to see her & them. Brot big mail. Sleep at Gl’s. Not a boy came. Mr. Willson not very well.

Sun. Mar. 5

A good lot of teachers in again. Shauri and paying and giving out supplies takes lots of time. We were 14 for dinner. Plenty to eat. Mr. Willson staid in bed this morn. She thinks she heard a leopard last night. I wonder.

Mon. Mar. 6

Imhoffs want to go to the Lake again & want Dad & me to go along so we are packed but don’t expect to go very early. Williams & Miss Hiles left after dinner. Car troubled so couldn’t get off earlier. Showery all day. Clothes didn’t dry. Picked strawberries.

Tues. Mar. 7

We left at 6. Ate just beyond bridge. Saw some buffalo, elephant, and as the grass had been burned long ago & was coming up green there were lots & lots of little buck, like mpala. & smaller. Got 3 pictures of 2 elephants nearby & Mr. I got another - very close of just one. but am not sure it was focused good. Had fish for dinner and brot 30 home. & some for supper. Gl. had all ready here. Very lovely time all day.

Wed. Mar. 8

So cloudy & funny. Milk curdled again when boiling. just Kiungu’s lot. Why??? Tried to get some letters off. Baked fish for dinner. Very good. Miss F led mtg. Very good too.

Thur. Mar. 9

Killed pig - fair size Fr. 190. Baked & worked in kitchen all A.M. At letters P.M. Wanted some bran washed & K. washed the whole big lot - ‘most ½ bag!!! Now to get it dry. Trying to finish pink croch. sweater for Mrs Griffin & Gl. is making blanket for her - outing & print.

Fri. Mar. 10

No Dr. and how we wonder why not. Plans are to go to lunch bridge fishing tomorrow. Stop at de W’s & get permit. I don’t think I should but all say yes. Picked lots of strawberries. Canned & jammed.

Sat. Mar. 11

We went. De Wildes gone to Beni. Tried fishing a bit but got none. Had a nice picnic. Cl. tried the 2 new tyres - both went flat. Got home by 3 & Miss N. asked Cl. to take a sick man to Oicha. Gl. went for needles. Mr. Imhoff went too. Cl. took 2 wheels from I’s car. All our guests at Miss F’s for supper. I sleep in Gl’s guest room so Miss M. is not alone.

Sun. Mar. 12

Cold & rainy & cloudy. No m’t’gs at all. They came just as dinner was ready. Mrs. Stough very low. that’s why Dr didn’t come. Miss Hiles staying over there. Mail brot word from Pearsons at Rethi. coming this wk. Also letter from Teasdales asking to come in Aug. Rogers can’t come.

Mon. Mar. 13

Mrs. Willson still suffers a lot. Imhoffs got away after breakfast. We enjoyed them much. My head & tummy are awful. Guess I’ll take a bit of atabrin, & see if twill help. Sent 18 men to Semliki for pembe.

Tues. Mar. 14

We’re a pretty small family now at table as Mrs Willson has a tray. Suffers so much Miss N. gave her sleeping pills. Got guest room ready to pembe. How we wonder if Mrs Stough is still here. Rain this eve & no men in yet with pembe.

Wed. Mar. 15

First thing this morn the pembe came & now the room is done & looks nice. Cl. got tyres fixed & offered to take W’s to Oicha if they wanted to go & they did. Made a bed in back & so they got away by 3 P.M. Saw light after pr. mtg & thot it might be Cl coming back. Seemed at Mutwangas.

Thur. Mar. 16

We got at dining room early as Gl has us eat down there. The boys went over it twice & it still looks very blotchy. We’ll see in morn. Cl came in after supper. brot tan pembe! sorry now we used the white. Rachel Stough had a beautiful passing at 10 A.M. Mon. Thank God she’s at rest.

Fri. Mar. 17

Met for prayer at Cl’s. Boys went over the whole room again & finally pembed floor - so now we’ll see. Letter from Bissets. They want to come in Sept. too. Guess we’ll have to get the guest house up. Shaffers went down river. left Stan. Mar. 3. Mrs. Willson’s trouble is fissure.

Sat. Mar. 18

A yr. ago. Wonder how she [arrow drawn to previous yr. “Dakin”] is now. At last report she was quiet and quite normal. The walls were pretty blotchy but I worked at them most A.M. while boys moved furniture in. It doesn’t look too bad. but not nice like tan pembe.

Sun. Mar. 19

Was raining at dawn. but cleared by S.S. time so all mtgs. were held as usual. Rested long & read & wrote a letter and went to Dad’s house for a walk. This is Rachel Stough’s first Sun. in heaven. how happy she is. Miss N. said Daudi Lai family go to Stan. in July for B.M.S. Bible School.

Mon. Mar. 20

No Pearsons yet. They probably spent the wk. end at Nyangkundi. Went to garden with Gl. & Miss Meloon. Made 4 bottles jam and 1 qt. canned & some stewed for tomorrow. Wrote Co air.

Tues. Mar. 21

Now they are here. came ab’t 6:30. Mail man came too. Some letters. & the things Imhoffs got for us. Mrs. Willson is getting better after her operation. Pearsons say Dr. is coming on Fri. They also say Mr. Williams is coming with Mr. Willson for 2 boxes.

Wed. Mar. 22

No one came for Willsons boxes. Pearsons are getting settled. Miss Manual sleeps at Gl’s. They went for walk to the river. Mrs. P. has been in bed most all day. Upset stomach. Cl. led mtg. Dad killed a snake at bathroom door.

Thur. Mar. 23

Mostly getting mail ready. Made Am. table cloth stitched in pink. Planning a picnic for Sat. below falls & supper for all. Miss Meloon’s birthday was the 5^th but we all forgot. Now we’ll celebrate. Not getting a pig this week. Dad killed another snake on path to his hut.

Fri. Mar. 24

Dr. came - perhaps for last time. had lots of work. May come for next wk. end. Have decided to make up a purse for him - at least ask the natives if they want to. Miss Hiles not so well but improving and Mrs. Willson getting better too. Sent quite a box of jars and a few cucumbers & potatoes.

Sat. Mar. 25

Were going for picnic but they came back after hike up river because they thot twould rain. so we went to Dad’s hut & ate & then all came home. Were all at fancy work & Cl. was running the gram. when the spring broke again. How glad I am we have a new one to put in. Ray sent it.

Sun. Mar. 26

Very pleasant for a change. All guests went to S.S. & church. Dad spoke today. A leopard tore the grass from a house where Sumani’s sheep were kept & killed 3 & carried away a goat but they got it so he had no breakfast after all his trouble.

Mon. Mar. 27

Last night the leopard tried to get into Mbafu Moya’s house. So today Cl & Mr. P. made a huge box trap & we hope the fellow will get into it tonight. Miss Meloon is going to take her meals here this wk. De Wildes have been camping near Oicha but have come back as butter came. 1 kilo.

Tues. Mar. 28

Mail man came in the rain. Brot butter but not much mail. Miss Moore will come when Williams bring children from Rethi & he has to go early to meet the dentist so Miss Meloon & Miss Frost will need to go to Oicha Mon. De Wildes called a bit. brot babe for medicine. Mrs. de W. is very thin but says she’s better now. Expecting another baby.

Wed. Mar. 29

Worked at quilt some - covering the one Aunt A gave me just as we were leaving Lynns to come back to Africa in ‘27. Just putting pieces on - “crazy” style. Dad led pr. mtg. Gl. cut out 2 dresses for me. Miss M. helps her with sewing. she has 3 smocks & 2 dresses & now makes n.gs.

Thur. Mar. 30

Killed 39 kilo pig. Finished the quilt & it looks very nice. I shall do others now. Cl. put a nice frame onto Co’s water color painting - also framed 4 animal pictures for themselves. Had the 3 little wild kittens killed - they wouldn’t get tame.

Fri. Mar. 31

Took care of meat canned 3 qts but pressure wouldn’t work right. pet cock kept blowing off so had to hold it part of the time. Canned dill pickles. made scrapple. baked a cake for tomorrow. Picked over berries as Yuda was busy with meat. Had blood test taken & find I’m full of malaria so am taking a course of atabrin.

Sat. Apr. 1

Now the yr is ¼ done. Nothing much to show for it tho - I fear. Baked & stewed as usual. Had hi tea at Gl’s this eve & games til dark then came up here for music. Sping broke last Sat. so Cl put in new one Ray sent. It’s fine now.

Sun. Apr. 2

Nice communion service. Lots of teachers here. Rained a bit during service. Cl. at meeting so late he had to eat supper alone. Keswick sermon after a good sing.

Mon. Apr. 3

Tho we staid up & lookt down the road til 9:30 - no one came. Cl & Gl. took Miss F and Miss Meloon to Oicha, & had some shopping to do at Beni. but we can’t see whats keeping them. Semliki is very low & sometimes [ferry] gets stuck in middle.

Tues. Apr. 4

They came Alone - (Mrs Willson & Miss Hiles not able to leave) before supper. They got to Semliki ab’t 8 P.M. & a truck was stuck on the pontoon. They waited til 10 & then went back to Oicha, roused Mr. Bell up & got to bed after 11. After all the fuss ab’t getting to Rethi by 5^th to see dentist Mrs. Williams didn’t go & they could have waited another week. Made a little dress for Matayos little girl & here they came with them.

Wed. Apr. 5

Made 4 qts sour kraut from 1 ½ big heads Miss N. gave us. Got lists straight with Gl. Mr Williams is supposed to bring more for me. I led mt’g. Cl. is framing animal pictures & they are beautiful.

Thur. Apr. 6

Went to garden. & baked 73 do nuts. Want to send some to Bob by Dr. tomorrow. Wrote Rays - air to go with Gl’s. Wrote Miss Russ. Finished “The Robe” by Douglas. and am reading Ironsides Gospel of John. Killed Yuda’s big pig 50 kilos.

Fri. Apr. 7

Dr. didn’t come so as Pearsons want to go for petrol they’ll go to Oicha & take a man with broken arm to Dr. Miss N can’t manage it. Cl. goes too - breakfast early. Have lots of things ready to send.

Sat. Apr. 8

They got away shortly after 7 and so we expected them back early but they didn’t come in sight til 20 to 8 & then had to leave their car part way down. Gl. Berth & I walked down & met them below N’s banana grove. It took long at Oicha.

Sun. Apr. 9 EASTER

And a beautiful day after the heavy rain yesterday. Cl. staid in bed. he is real miserable with sinus trouble. Gl. ate dinner here & took a tray for both at supper. Rained just at church time so no one came & we had mtg by ourselves.

Mon. Apr. 10

Wanted to send the black cat to Mrs de Wilde but couldn’t find it. Came this eve for supper. Got butter & cheese from there. Mr Pearson wrote Ingels for me in French. The milk boys say his men come into their villages & get the milk but he says they do not. but get it only near by.

Tues. Apr. 11

Washed hair tho I had headache. Canned 6 qts toms. raw pack & boil. Finished the “sewing suit” for Gl’s birthday. Cl & Gl. ate dinner here. Miss Manuel gave me a pretty dress. almost fits. Dad works every day clearing the place for guest house & all hill side.

Wed. Apr. 12

Went to Gl’s & cut out pretty n. gown for me. I’ll sew it up. Have all mending done only Dad wants khakis made smaller. I want every thing done so when wool comes I can gt at the shawl. Shall perhaps knit a bed jacket too. Rethi will be colder than here. Miss N. led mtg.

Thur. Apr. 13

Gl. sent up oodles of tomatoes. Cold packed 5 qts. made lots of juice to drink, & have some ketsup and some jam of yellow ones. Almost no time for sewing. Finished letter to girls. 3 yrs. ago today my arm came down [from splint, after being broken] never to go up again. at least I hope.

Fri. Apr. 14

Dr. came & brot Mr. Brand and Miss Hiles. She got all her things as she goes back when Drs. go to Stan. She seems pretty well. Mr. B. looks as always. hasn’t gained much weight. Bob’s swellings haven’t opened yet. They leave Mon and fly to Leo [Leopoldville] on Thur. May God give strength.

Sat. Apr. 15

Usual baking. sewed a bit at n.g. Cl came before break. asking if Dad would like to go to Kenya with him. he thinks he must go & see ab’t a gun. Brand didn’t know any thing ab’t it. So, we sent passport for visa.

Sun. Apr. 16

Services as usual. This P.M. we had a family conf. ab’t this Kenya trip. Dad thinks he’d like to stay down a while - perhaps see ab’t Masai printing. Then he also showed us his house plan - just altering ours a bit. and it is very good. We walked up where he’s clearing.

Mon. Apr. 17

Thot sure Williams would be out today bringing Miss Moore but no one came. I’m trying to make Dad’s khaki trousers smaller. Cl. drew the house plan & brot it for correction. All seem satisfied with it now.

Tues. Apr. 18

Ab’t 3:30 Miss Moore came brot by Mr & Mrs Metzler and Mr & Mrs. Sinderson, all from Mid. Af. in F.E.A. These were on their way to Butembo but wanted to see this place & so brot Miss Moore. 2 are in Dad’s house so we are asking them to stay here for the wk. end. Sat. all go to the Lake.

Wed. Apr. 19

Gl. worked up here all A.M. & part P.M. She has been so busy. Mail came. Nice parcel from Ivy. Wool - soda & rubber sheet from Ruth B. Birthday letter from C.A.P. cute card. Brot bacon from Litchman.

Thur. Apr. 20 [63^rd birthday]

We were at garage by 6. Went ab’t 30 mi. & turned off road & made for certain hill, Cl. knew from hunting there. Had a flat. I cut dad’s hair & we lunched-breakfast at usual place. Met a hippo who refused to get out of the road. Saw elephants too. Home by 4:30. Buffet supper at Gl’s. Opened my Cora parcel (next page)

Fri. Apr. 21

while eating lunch. Lovely things. I wore the pretty jersey cloth dress. All went down & left me. When I got there they sang Happy birthday. There stood the chair I thot was Miss Wambold’s. Mr Pearson made it for me. A lovely flower bowl. Creamer & sugar from Helen. Dress from Agnes. Mints. perfume. “Spam”. Wall motto (c board). Every thing lovely. potato chips. chicken salad. etc etc.

Sat. Apr. 22

The folks were off for the Lake at 5. Got back a bit after 5. brot fish. Baked & worked yesterday getting things ready. They brot lots back. Had rice, onion, curry- supper. Very good. Sent mail man yesterday after pr. mtg. Hope he gets there promptly to catch Drs.

Sun. Apr. 23

Restful. enjoyed by all, after a hectic wk end. It is very hot, & dry. I fear my flower seeds will die. tho I’m watering them. There’s not much with which to make pie these days - but squash.

Mon. Apr. 24

Cl & Mr. M. left early for Butembo but pontoon is sunk so had to come back. Fire got away for the garden men & went right beside Dad’s hut where Metzlers are. Carried every thing out & it would surely have gone but one of the men had bananas cut & stacked on the fire side so saved it. So hot & dry. Just after our supper Kirkpatricks 6 came in on way to Stan for boat Shaffers go on. Good they didn’t go on to the pontoon.

Tues. Apr. 25

We put up tent for 3 boys. Miss Moore moved to tiny room & Kirks have corner room. He & Cl went to pontoon & took bicycle fellow to go to Oicha & ask Williams to come tomorrow to get them at 9. Busairio is sick so Salumu helps Marungani.

Wed. Apr. 26

Kirks finally got away a bit before 9. Williams met them. We got mail & butter. They are working at pontoon. Grace S. was very ill Apr. 12 with ruptured appendix. On 16^th was recovering. Mr. Kirk returns after putting her onto boat. so she’ll be glad for S’s help. the baby is a darling. Gl. got parcel from her mother.

Thur. Apr. 27

Ford parcels came - ordered Dec. 30. Ours was ordered Jan. 6 so should soon be here too. May God bring them safely as we need ‘em much. Strawberries. made shortcake for all & plenty with cake & 1 qt canned & 2 glasses of jam.

Fri. Apr. 28

Gl. & Bertha Manuel fitted my pretty grey dress from Agnes. and it needs hemming only. They want me to wear it tomorrow at hi tea. Worked at meat. made scrapple. These folks enjoy the pork as they never get any. only beef. & wild meat.

Sat. Apr. 29

Busy but happy day. Sort o’ rainy. Very nice time at hi tea. Noweck came but not de Wildes. Burnt sugar cake. Spam sandwiches. Yum! Music this eve & all ladies knitting or something. I’m making cape sweater for Harriet’s “son”?

Sun. Apr. 30

Meetings as usual. Dad preached. We are all so grateful for the miraculous escape Mrs Rearson had when she & Mrs Metzler went on a side path & set off a spear trap Yuda had set for monkeys. The spear tore her coat sleeve. Had it hit her it would have been fatal, no doubt. He feels very badly ab’t it & we all do - but praise God for sparing her life.

Mon. May 1

Miss N. hasn’t had her annual outing yet & wont get it very soon. De Wildes say it will take long to get the pontoon fixed. These folks can’t go til it is. so we’ll make best of it. Samueli hasn’t returned yet.

Tues. May 2

Now we’ve finished the pork. Guess we wont get any this wk. I’ll open cans & make meat loaf. Finished sweater & it’s cute. Mail came. Beckers got to Stan OK & Mrs. B. didn’t have much trouble. Nice pictures of Rays from Lo. A letter from Ed’s boy Geo. in North Africa.

Wed. May 3

Canned toms - but will have to use them ourself if we don’t get to Oicha soon. Made a bit of strawberry jam. as we picked all today. Samueli still not here tho Miss N. says he’s not ill. Tonight Yuda went home sick. Dad led mtg.

Thur. May 4

Mail all ready to send. Every one busy most all day with letters. Mrs. Metzler wrote to brown sugar people for me. I got thankyou letter off to Cora etc. Dad wrote Ed’s George - who is in North Afr. Metzler - Sinderson ate dinner at Cls.

Fri. May 5

I started knitting the shawl but am afraid its too large for the am’t of wool I have. Dad is at the foundation of house. Cl at turbine - the cement work.

Sat. May 6

Wonder if Mrs. Propst feels any older today. Guess she had my letter in time. Baked & worked most all day. Had some music but Cl & Gl were busy. Teachers all in - such a mob. A note from Miss F. at Oicha says will Cl. meet her at pontoon Mon. Perhaps Agnes too.

Sun. May 7

Lovely day good attendance at communion. Yuda spoke in S.S. telling of Gods goodness to him thro’ the yrs & especially last wk when Mrs. Pearson passed under a spear trap - the spear cut her coat sleeve. How thankful we all are God spared her.

Mon. May 8 [38^th anniversary]

Cl. went to Semliki & brot only Miss F. Mother not so well so Agnes couldn’t come. We all went to Gl’s at 4:30. I wore my wedding dress and they had a mock wedding. Mr. Metzler carried Mr. P. in on his back. Mr. Sinderson was bride & Frances veil girl. Mr. M. read the ceremony. They sang “When you & I were young Maggie” We laughed til our sides ached. Supper was very nice at long table in dining room. 3 tier pink & white cake.

Tues. May 9

Some are feeling rather knocked out today - tho it was sunny mostly. Some few chickens are sick again this yr. one or 2 have died. Have decided to put Gl’s old mat below our new one & the present living room one into her dining room.

Wed. May 10

Too rainy this morn to work with mats or pick the berries. so had upsidedown cake. Matayo Mate brot a dressed pig early this morn. Leopard had got it so they killed & brot here. Frcs. 120. Intended to get one tomorrow if possible.

Thur. May 11

Got mats down & they do look so nice. put our living room mat into Gl’s dining room. & it just goes cross wise - & length is good too. So cold we have fire. Mrs Metzler not well at all.

Fri. May 12

Seems to be sort of flu around. Bertha is not so well either. Mrs. Sinderson is on diet. Miss N. was quite ill last wk. Natives too have it. Still pretty cold & rainy. Mrs. P. had native tailor come to sew. He did 2 pyjama suits for F. after she cut ‘em out & then wanted Frc. 45. Cl. gave him 25. & sent him.

Sat. May 13

How surprised we were ab’t 3 P.M. when Earl, Lucile & Margaret drove in. Left rest of family at Kabale. or really Lake Bunyori. Had popcorn & candy & talked & knitted. The tailor wants his machine - he said he couldn’t carry it. Mr. Farnsworth died Apr. 26. Same op. as Father Downing.

Sun. May 14

Mother’s Day. Gl. & Fran gave each Mother a card & a little gift. & pretty roses. The morning was nice & sunny. June day! All wore red roses to church. A good sing this eve and a Barnhouse sermon. pretty long. Mrs. Sinderson staid abed til supper time. Thot the mail man would be in but not yet.

Mon. May 15

They all went to 2^nd valley - ‘twas such a lovely day. but as they started back Mrs. Metzler slipped & fell on her right elbow injuring badly. Don’t know if it is broken. We ate dinner as we c’d. Mrs. M. had only coffee at car. All packed in a hurry & Cl & Earl went too taking men to help cross river. Guess boys went to Oicha - not back yet.

Tues. May 16

Metzlers intended going to Dr. at Butembo. but found at Beni that he is ill. so went to Kilo - where is an Xray. Cl & Earl got back this eve. Pearsons go tomorrow for Williams can’t go car broken. & Bells go on Thur. Miss Moore wants to go with them. Agri. man crosses pontoon tomorrow & they can use his men. All had supper here. Am writing Dr. Kleinschmit to come for vacation in July. Trouts are leaving soon for furlo. so Gl. can’t go there.

Wed. May 17

Earl & girls left ab’t 6:45. I got break. for them. and we had dinner early & the rest got away ab’t 12:45. It’s prtty empty all over. Will do living room next wk. Busy all day just doing what doesn’t count. Philip - - . & 3 ladies came for auto oil or something. he brot buck meat. Had tea at Gls.

Thur. May 18

They must have gotten on for no one has returned. Dad came in from work ab’t 10 A.M. doubled over with cramps. I got hot water to drink & in bottle and by 11 he was vomitting & then felt easier. Ate some dinner & supper. Cl & Gl eating here while they fix their stove. I’m glad. it’s pretty quiet & empty around here.

Fri. May 19

Prayer Day. Dad not very peppy but up all day. It is evidently fever. he’s taking a course of quinine. Go to bed early these nights. I seem done out too with bad head much of the time. Took atabrin this eve.

Sat. May 20

Baked only custard & berry pie - not another thing so were done early. Boys pembed veranda so ate in sitting room for dinner. Went to brick shed after supper. Nice lot of bricks made. & such different quality from the houses here & church. Hope they burn well. They spent evening here. til news time.

Sun. May 21

Dad & I both pretty punk today. Guess I’ll try an atabrin course. Went to meeting as dinner was quick getting. Wrote Miss Meloon and Udds. Starting to read Lectures by Dr. Ironside on Gospel of John. Sunny hot day.

Mon. May 22

All 4 ate break here & then we went to Cls for other meals. Walls & floor of living room all pembied. Guess they’ll look nice. Pretty tired. I hardly rested at all. Guess I wont write a birthday letter to John for I suppose they’ll be coming out. Mail came at noon. no passports but letter saying ours must be renewed.

Tues. May 23

Ate at Gls all day. Pembied hall & bath room all over. washed mats. Macungani ironed. Worked all day at cleaning. washed all woodwork & window & curtains & ironed & they are up. Mat in but not all pictures hung.

Wed. May 24

Pembed our room as there was too much pembe mixed. But there are spots in living room that keep cracking off. Never had such a time. just a few cracks & when we put more on to wet it down it cracks wherever it is wet so spots are getting bigger. Also pembed dining room floor so ate at Gl’s all day.

Thur. May 25

Returned things into our room. and still working at spots in living room. Am a bit sore from doing our room yesterday. I did every bit. Busairio had the day off. Macungani did the floor after we left for dinner. All is clean & looks nice & Dad has pictures up. No Pearsons yet.

Fri. May 26

Shaffers are supposed to sail today. Pearsons got here just at 5. Brot lots of news. Mrs. M’s elbow was not broken but out of joint. Dr. at Kilo was quite nasty but finally Xrayed and set it. They are most home now. Frances loves school. They brot word that Dr. Trouts have gone to Kivu for 2 wks. & want to come back this way. They leave for home July 1. so Miss Moore gave our letters to Dr. Kleinschmidts.

Sat. May 27

Baked pies. Had hi tea - de Wildes came. She goes by plane to Costermansville Aug. 1. to hospital for her baby & asked if we’d keep Yves - the baby for her. Mrs. Gerday will keep Thierry. It’s just when the Kenya crowd is here. so don’t know.

Sun. May 28

Dad preached. Very hot & dry - these days. lots of fires. folks making gardens beside the guest house - burned grass -fire was just going out when de W’s came yesterday. Wrote Al a big letter. Walked to guest house. Had started foundation.

Mon. May 29

Yosia mended dining room mat today. Last wk. the hall one in 2 places. Trying the pembe again. Scratched all off & put gray pembe on. I’m still trying the tan above mantel.

Tues. May 30

Just after news the mail man came. Said he came all way from Oicha but I wonder. Had a load. med. & parcels & magazines. Lovely home mail but nothing from Ray. Office Miss Johnson says they are making Rays a test case to see if children are allowed to come out. Philura was to sit up ½ hr. daily. Rolland is walking with crutch.

Wed. May 31

Such nice letters from home. didn’t get all read til today. One from Mrs. Farnsworth telling of his op. etc. She is very lonely. We got remit. of $195. 20 contributors. and I want to get all ans. soon. All Gen. Fund but 40 of Gospel Tab.

Thur. June 1

Made 7 copies of thank you letters and that’s all I’ve got ready for post. I have to keep at the shawl for fear she’ll be hustling away & it wont be ready. Thot sure Jim & Ag wold come today. We sure don’t eat much these days.

Fri. June 2

Jim. & Ag. came ab’t 1. brot letters from Dr. Ks who want us all to come up there for July! Cl & Gl. will go ab’t June 26. Ag. staid. Jim took load of flour. & will come again Sun. for her. It’s so nice having her here. Music this eve.

Sat. June 3 [John’s 66^th birthday]

Killed pig - 61 kilos. Ag. will take half. Baked pie. Miss F. asked us all to dinner. It got very late tho & Dad isn’t feeling well at all. All here for supper. Ag. brot him 4 apples. Cora sent 2 shirts. Cl & Gl gave him a framed animal picture. Mrs Pearson tinned stuff. I tin cheese.

Sun. June 4

Quiet day for us but Cl. was busy. Jim came ab’t 7:15 bringing Brand, Alice and Miss Hulpke. Got supper for them & had news. No meeting - too much to talk about. They left at 9. Sent potatoes. toms - etc etc. Glad to get rid of it. [arrows drawn to “potatoes” & “toms”]

Mon. June 5

Dad complains much of pain in spleen & it is large. but not so large as in Sept. tho more pain. Mr Pearson put in the glass cupboard he had made. I’ve put glass ware in and it is lovely. Now have room for table clothes in side board.

Tues. June 6

School is on so some of the help have short hrs. of work. I’m ab’t ½ thro knitting baby shawl. Very dry so we are watering the garden. Hot water bottle relieves Dad’s pain but doesn’t seem to help. He looks awful these days.

Wed. June 7

Dad had a bad night and much pain so decided ab’t 3 P.M. to come to Oicha & perhaps on to Dr Woodhams. Arrived at dark. Miss Edna took blood slide & gave aspirin & phenolbarbitol. We are in Bell’s guest house. Cl with Brand.

Thur. June 8

Called Miss E. at 2 A.M. he was suffering so. After tests this morn. decided it is infection. Then called Dr. Mol, Beni & he said abscess on spleen. Must not be moved even to Miss E’s. Alice came ab’t 8 & gave morphine shot to insure rest as that is very necessary. still has much pain & can’t eat. Cl. left for home ab’t 4 P.M.

Fri. June 9

Dr. came again ab’t 10 A.M. & was pleased with Dad’s condition. He slept pretty good, and perspired. Changed clothes twice. Has been drowsy all day. They are giving sulfa--- something to clear up the pus. Dr will not come tomorrow unless called.

Sat. June 10

Had fair night one tablet and changed once but at 4 wanted me to read a while. Mail came & Kirkpatrick on way home from taking her to boat. S & I. were to sail June 3 & Dr B’s were off & w’d arrive June 22. Williams took K. to Rw. also 6 rabbits. Dad takes 8 sulfa tabs 2 x 4. & atabrin 3.

Sun. June 11

Lovely A.M. but HOT P.M. Dad had some rest but is uncomfortable in his head. Up twice. No sleeping tab. but slept quite well. Has bad pain in lower abdomen at times hot water bottle relieves it. Miss E. says atabrin sometimes acts that way. He finished 6 day course

Mon. June 12

Dr. came ab’t 2 P.M. Dad had better night. Slept on his side for a bit. I cut hair. Sat under the tree after tea. Pain is less - gets needle to reduce spleen. Dr. wont come unless called. Allied Armies are advancing into France. Am. Can. & Brit. Many battleships. 1400 planes.

Tues. June 13

Did reading at 4 A.M. & changed 2 times & also first thing this morn bathed & changed. Has no temp but there are flares of pain. W’s came before dinner brot fresh pork, toms, etc etc. Cl & Gl come next Mon. & Dad may go with them to Aba. Cut huge tree beside road. Allies making progress in France.

Wed. June 14

Didn’t call til 3 A.M. but hadn’t slept well. has pain in bowels. Brand left for outschools. Ws eat here. Dad walked around house 3 times but is very restless tonight. May take sleeping tab. Jim went to Miss E. after news & she said to take one. Is raining hard.

Thur. June 15

Up 3 times - sat up between sleeps. Quite a bit of pain but much better today. Miss E. says must take phenol - spleen is reducing also soreness but he must sleep. Hope man has reached Rw.

Fri. June 16

Took tab. but was up 3 times: 10, 12, 4. Just at dark Dr. Trouts came in. Hurra, and hurra again for they may go to Rw tomorrow. I think Dad feels better already. Dr. says “Don’t move” so Aba is off. Sat on Bells veranda for dinner. Dr says don’t walk. W’s got away for Bogoro this P.M.

Sat. June 17

Dr. said no aspirin just phenol. he slept til 1. then at 3 had much pain had to light primus for hot water. Dr. & Miss E. talked long. They left for Rw. ab’t 11. So glad. ‘twill be such help to Gl. Mail man came. Jock dog is sick. Isaya was sent for med. for her & he drank it. Luckily twas the usual native dose only more Salts. No harm done. Cherbourg penin. cut off by Ally armies.

Sun. June 18

W’d like to know what is being planned at Rw. We may know tomorrow. All quiet & restful. Jim ate supper early & he & Brand went to Bu. for J’s car. I got Dad’s supper & the rest went to Miss Es for supper. Lovely & large salad, potato chips, iced tea - upside down cake. Dad slept pretty well. between several changes.

Mon. June 19

A hard day altho Drs. came early & said they were going home to pack & come back & stay at Rw. til after baby comes. How grand. We sent a man to tell Cl. not to come this wk. we’ll send word again by mail man. Miss E. will say when it’s safe to go. Has much pain tonight. I fear it’s nerves as he has been terribly upset ab’t many things.

Tues. June 20

Aspirin relieved pain last night but caused much perspiration. changed clothes. Heavy rain last eve but nice & cool today. The teacher from Biasiko is here. He is doing good work. Makes gardens & sells food to mines so has bot a sewing machine. I gave him Fr. 60 to buy dress for his wife & 4 children.

Wed. June 21

Started sleeping right after supper. Med. at 8 changes at 10:30 & 2:45. Slept well between and seems brighter today. Sat outside but not very sunny. Roast duck. Undid Jim’s sweater part way & see what I can do with it. Finished the shawl. Alice took blood test again.

Thur. June 22

Elmer’s birthday. Up at 1:30 but didn’t need changing. Dad very drowsy all day. I baked pineapple pie for dinner. Dorothea here. Baked do-nuts yesterday. Alice brot iced lemonade . Yum. Dad’s lukocite is coming down fine but not yet ready to move.

Fri. June 23

Slept well. changed clothes twice. Had lovely bath in tub. How he enjoyed it. Thot mail man w’d be here but not yet. Neither has the other returned.

Sat. June 24

Pretty good night. up twice. Bath at 11. Dad read quite a lot so I helped in kitchen. Mrs de Wilde quite ill. Cl came to Beni for Dr. Mail man came but not other man. Lots of parcels came in post - 10 for Gl & me. Took another lukocite & we can go on Tues. Parcels were from Lo, Co, Little Rock and Ward order. sent Jan. 6.

Sun. June 25

Got man off early so hope he gets thro quickly. Had a miserable night. Vomitted 9:30 and had much pain so got water bottle & aspirin. then changed twice. but today has been pretty good. Brand brot phono & I played it. Helped a lot. Brand wants to go to Rethi Tues. take Dorothea and see the new party!

Mon. June 26

Wonder if man is at Rw. Had music this eve. Dad is much stronger & brighter. guess the thot of home helps. Up 3 times but changed only once.

Tues. June 27

Cherbourg has fallen. Cl. didn’t come. Guess man didn’t get there. I had things pretty well packed. Dad went over for supper. Mother saw him come & held the door open for him & fixed cushions for him. He staid for news. Up at 2 but didn’t need to change.

Wed. June 28

Home! Cl came ab’t 12:15 and we packed the car & got away 1:30. Jim rode to Beni with us. Then went on to get his car at Butembo. All were glad to see us even Jock. who has been quite sick but seems well. Gl. looks & feels fine. Also Pearsons. Dad stood the trip fine - on air mattress.

Thur. June 29

Pain and restless so we were up & down but seems to be getting stronger. Much unpacking to do and many things to see to. Cl got mail at Beni so, more letters to read. Showed Gl & Cl our parcels. Then wnt to see theirs. Getting gifts ready for Agnes birthday on Mon.

Fri. June 30

Somewhat better night. Seems to get pretty hungry so had porridge at 10. Mail man left with Cl. who went to Kasindi expecting to go to Kampala to get tubes vulcanized but couldn’t as he had no permit to take tubes out of Congo. so came back.

Sat. July 1

Just after break. a note came from Gl. to say things were beginning to move. Miss N. advised going to Oicha at once. They left by 9:15. My, how I miss them. We hope Drs are at Oicha or will come and all come back out here. No pains but discharge. Dad stays down til 10 A.M. then a cup of Oxo and up for dinner. Down til tea time & up for supper but not news.

Sun. July 2

Changed once last night. Pearsons attended meeting. Mrs P. played the organ for us at eve. mt’g. Nothing very new in the news. Still hard fighting in France & all battle fronts. Wish we could look in at Oicha. Have been much in prayer.

Mon. July 3

And the mail got here ab’t 7:30 and notes saying William Henry had arrived at 6:30 Sat. eve. Pretty quick work. They stopt at Beni and did shopping got to Oicha ab’t noon & shortly after pains began & by 6:30 he had come. Miss Edna & Alice have still more reward coming to them. All were fine when Cl wrote on Sun. morning.

Tues. July 4

I wasn’t feeling well yesterday and last night had terrible indigestion. and nausea and tossed & rolled. Bowels are very loose and I feel all in & going to bed at 7. Got Bageni off for Oicha after much protest on his part.

Wed. July 5

Have been up & down all day. Dad had bad head this morning so didn’t get up til after dinner. Asked Mr P. to lead pr’mt’g. Men working at rabbit run but so slow at it. Tried to get some letters off but hope tomorrow will go better. Such restless nights so have to lie down in day time. to bed at 6.

Thur. July 6

Another miserable night & day. can’t vomit but feel like it. Miss N. gave me epicac. hope it helps. Dad had bad head so staid in bed til after dinner. I had hard work to get mail off but the man took it this eve. To bed at 6.

Fri. July 7

Wow wasn’t I sick ab’t 11 P.M.! but feel much better today. Dad got up as usual: for dinner & supper. Bageni got back & brot nice letter from Gl & Cl. she wrote the first page. All doing well. Babe looked around. Remarkable! - Cl.

Sat. July 8

O what a day. Mr. P. wanted a man to take his battery to hotel & Dad got fussed & made an awful row. Then P’s decided to go to Beni & take it. They left after dinner & ab’t 2:30 a man came with note asking for radio battery as they were stuck. Wonder what time they got to Oicha.

Sun. July 9

A very quiet day. read aloud to Dad. Had no meeting this eve. My stomach is not yet good but tonight finishes atabrin course so think ‘twill soon be better.

Mon. July 10

Pearsons got here ab’t 3:30. brot a queer cablegram that we can’t make out so am sending a man to Oicha with it for Cl. to find out. Dad was sitting on veranda after dinner & saw a big cobra cross the lawn. Anderea was here & killed it. 5 ft. 7 in. Dad & I were awake at 2 A.M. had lunch & read an hr. then slept til dawn!!

Tues. July 11

I felt lots better this P.M. now have hard pain again in pit of stomach. Am still taking 1 atabrin a day. Dad has been as usual. Took quite a walk. Sent man to Cl. with cable. Hope he can make it out & send an answer.

Wed. July 12

Finished sewing my pretty n. gown. We expected Cl. & Drs. but since they haven’t come we suppose they’ll all come together Fri. or Sat. I led mt’g. Miss F didn’t come. Don’t know why.

Thur. July 13

Miss F. said she ws so tired she went to bed at 7 & slept til 6 A.M. & then it was raining so there was no school & no men came for work. Dad ate hearty supper. I’m most alright but still get pain in stomach.

Fri. July 14

Didn’t much look for folks today. Man came from Oicha. that we sent Tues. Gl. was up & Billy is gaining. Brand & Trouts hadn’t come yet. She may go to Miss Ednas for dinner tomorro. Baked cookies. Got mail off. Writing big letter ans. ab’t 6 letters.

Sat. July 15

And still no folks. But surely they’ll come Mon. It began raining before day light and kept at it til after noon. Heated the bath water on stove. Baked a pie. Mr. Pearson made frame for my bed spring - or really Agnes’. so now I have a proper bed.

Sun. July 16

Quiet day. Gust went to S.S. and both went to church. I read a lot caught up in O.T. also wrote the girls answering ab’t 8 letters or more. Dad staid out for mt’g tonight.

Mon. July 17

It was most 6 when the car pulled in. Only Cl & Gl & Billy - tho. Dr. Trouts are so busy & will go to Leo. directly. Baby is a darling. black hair & some thing like Cl. but not yet decidedly like any one. The Rogers of last Mar. are coming. but don’t know how long they can stay.

Tues. July 18

Spent quite a bit of time with Gl. Baby is such a darling. How we would like to see where Rays are. Had supper for all here. Strawberries and cake. Getting letters off.

Wed. July 19

Finally got mattress cover made & on and fixed up. with old rags below to keep it from going down too much. They brot baby to pr mtg but we prayed too long. he got hungry & yelled.

Thur. July 20

Busy with letters. and ab’t 3 P.M. Mr P comes up bringing a big bag of mail that was in his car since they came from Oicha 10 days ago. Several home letters. Remit of $75. Thank God.

Fri. July 21

Pr. Day mt’g at 8. So much provocation as the men work so poorly. I thot the chicken house would be almost finished & they’ve barely begun. Ali went with post. Ngelese is sick in his leg. Wrote Warren.

Sat. July 22

Got silk pieces sewed over ragged side of slumber robe. Wrote letters to contributors. One a Michaud of our Ev. Church at Berne, Ind. Our pretty black & tan cat is missing - for 3 days.

Sun. July 23

Wrote Mrs Guilding for I’m sure they’ve gone thro to Kenya. There was a smell of some thing dead on veranda. Cl. found our missing cat up above, dead. Wonder if snake bit her. I kept babe during S.S. & church. It’s fun.

Mon. July 24

Thank God for this deliverance from a very serious accident. Camps, Jim & Miss Edna came in C’s truck to get Jim’s flour & Miss Edna staid & when others crossed the bridge at Mutwangas, the bridge went down & the truck turned over. The native boy behind was hurt - how badly isn’t yet known. The 3 weren’t hurt except for a few scratches. Mr. C. is pretty shaken up. Gust & Cl. went out & helped pull the car out. natives carried flour out.

Tues. July 25

All went down to help them get car agoing. They did. Native is ab’t all right too. Pearsons took us for dinner to hotel & there we met Rogers who were coming but stopped because of bridge. Their Betty has whooping cough so they are in Dad’s hut. to keep away from babe. Had lovely dinner & he would take no pay. R’s came with us leaving their car. Dad was holding babe when we got here as he started to cry.

Wed. July 26

Men went to see ab’t bridge as P’s want to leave tomorrow. They got it fixed enuf to push P’s car across & leave it & Rogers brot his car back. Mr. & Mrs. Burrell, guests at the hotel walked up & staid for lunch. Then walked back. Miss F. led mtg. R’s seem comfy in Dad’s hut. Gl. Miss E. & I went to garden.

Thur. July 27

P’s & Miss Edna got away by 8:30. Mr R. took them to Mutwangas. Yuda was very busy yesterday frying down meat & roasting & rendering fat. Have all taken care of. They took quite a lot along. More than ever I’d like to see Sara tonight. How near are they to sailing - God knows.

Fri. July 28

It does seem empty with Pearsons gone. Got the mail off and have done many & various things. Made do-nuts as P’s took most of others. Rogers take children up ab’t 6:30 & he returns for news. I do miss seeing my baby.

Sat. July 29

Baked pie and bread & buns. Rainy early so didn’t wash mats. Cleaned guest room but there’s no pembe so will finish next week. Getting a few letters off. Making sheets of Americani.

Sun. July 30

Quiet day. Talked & visited after meals. Finished reading Kagawa’s “A grain of Wheat”. Walked up to the guest house. Gl. went to S.S. A boy staid with babe. Little Betty doesn’t cough quite so much any more.

Mon. July 31

Rainy so very little work was done. I mended & fixed cushions. Made 2 more Am. sheets. Quite a storm ab’t 3 A.M. lots of hard lightning & thunder. Mail man hasn’t returned. Only 1 kilo of butter came. Mrs. de Wilde goes to Beni this wk.

Tues. Aug. 1

Mr. de W. came bringing the mulatto girl for Miss N. to see as she’s sick. Mr. Rogers had a bad night but is better. Strawberries for dinner & supper. Making aprons for boys. Put new wick & new mantle in lamp. Wonder how long they’ll be good.

Wed. Aug. 2

Cl & Mr. R. had early lunch then went up where Cl & Mr. Imhoff had gone - at least they were headed that way. I’m sleeping with Gl. tonight. Dad led pr mtg. Mail man came ab’t 4. Nice mail & butter but no late word of Rays coming. Their letter was Apr. 24. & they were ab’t packed.

Thur. Aug. 3

No men came. It was rainy til after break. Boys got wash done but very little got dry. No water in ditch so carried from Lusilubi. Cl & Mr. R. got back just before noon. soaked. Baths & dinner then good rest. But glad he went.

Fri. Aug. 4

Rainy morning again but I told the few work men that came, they HAD to get that rabbit pen covered today. So they all went at it & were done by 4 P.M. I pd. them off. Got mail man off after supper. Rather showery all P.M. Dad’s men didn’t work. Dad spent most all day lying down. 60 candidates for baptism are here. Examined 8 last eve. More this P.M. & more this eve.

Sat. Aug. 5 [Miss Frost’s birthday]

I iced the cake & sent it over as she had Miss N. & Cl & Gl there for supper. I baked pie & tarts & that’s all. Miss N. killed a pig and gave us enuf for Sun. Dad, Mr. R & girls went to Paradise. Didn’t rain all day. Expect a full day tomorrow.

Sun. Aug. 6

Rained pretty much all day - but 55 were baptised and near 200 took communion. Mr. R. staid in bed all day. he’s hurt his side so is resting. Dad staid in some too. I sent dinner up to R’s it was raining so hard. Gl. came to meeting. Didn’t write any but finished “Lassie Come home” by Erik Knight. Very good.

Mon. Aug. 7

Lovely morn. But Dad isn’t very peppy. Men all working in flower garden. Cl & R’s decided to go to Lake today instead of tomorrow so we hustled things together & they got off by 2:30. It rained hard about 4. down the hills but they may have been beyond it. I slept with Gl.

Tues. Aug. 8

They got back ab’t 7. brot lots of fish & I fried most all - kept some whole for baking if they’re good in the morning. Took 4 pictures of baby close up. Dyed curtains of guest room blue. Baked bread. Folks saw lots of animals.

Wed. Aug. 9

Getting terraces cleaned. All the men are at it, even Dad’s 2. He doesn’t go up the hill much. but for a bit this P.M. Mail came at supper time & Air Mail from Ray saying most of their money was in & they were going to Wash. for passport soon. They may be on the way now.

Thur. Aug. 10

Baked cookies. The colored curtains aren’t very nice so am doing them over. Dad went up the hill for work with his men. He is feeling better. We’d like him to go to Dr Woodhams with Cl & Gl on Mon. but he says no. He also says no. ab’t attending Conf at Blukwa. It’s so exciting to think that Rays may be in next party. Dr. Beckers had arrived in N.Y.

Fri. Aug. 11

Fried down 2 hams - will send a tin to Nyangkundi with Rogers. Cl & Gl have decided to go to Mambasa on Mon. She is getting rooms pembed. Tuckers come on Fri. and Miss F. is willing to have Mrs. Propst sleep in her room for 2 wks. while T’s are in our room.

Sat. Aug. 12

Cl has found something wrong in the car so they can’t leave on Mon. Baked Gl’s cake & sent to her - orange sponge - also baked Mrs. Roger’s but not iced. it is on Tues. so they’ll take it along. Rained most all day mats all wet. drying in kitchen tonight.

Sun. Aug 13

Quite pleasant all day. Dad has diarhoea quite bad. Staid quiet but for short walks. Went to Cl’s for a bit. Showery this eve & threatening & blowing so Miss N. didn’t come to mtg. Wonder how quiet will be next Sun.

Mon. Aug. 14

Ab’t noon Mr. R. found something wrong in his car & they’ve not yet remedied it so they can’t go tomorrow. We’re sending the post man any way. tho hope Tuckers will bring mail on Fri. Rainy this morn. but not since 8 A.M. Iced the cake & Peggy helped with lettering.

Tues. Aug. 15

They came - Teasdales, Bissets and Mrs P. just as we were cutting birthday cake. brot lots of fish. Cl & Mr R. working at R’s car all day but still not finished. Theo & Paul T. sleep in tent. Mrs P in corner room til Tuckers come.

Wed. Aug. 16

Now have finished the car & they want to be off tomorrow. Cl. goes too & hopes to get back with Tuckers Fri. or Sat. Talked lots & unpacked. They brot lovely stuff. and butter for which we are glad as we’ve not had de W’s til today. Gl. led mtg.

Thur. Aug. 17

They got away by 9 or so - Cl too. Gl. says Bissets should stay with her. We talked over the plan for Kenya. and sent our p.p.s for visas and after Rays come & we have our visit - we’ll try to go down. all of us. Dad is feeling much better. Pembed Dad’s hut.

Fri. Aug. 18

Just at dark a fellow came asking for a lantern. we made out ‘twas for Miss F who went to villages after pr mtg & isn’t back yet. No other guests have come. so guess Cl. met up with Tuckers. Baked bread & cookies. We are enjoying Kenya butter and dried fruit and every thing they brot.

Sat. Aug. 19

After I had written but before we went to bed we saw a car light & it was Cl. & Tuckers. Didn’t bring the part as garage was closed but expected Williams to bring it. but a card from them says - they can’t come. tires too bad. Killed a pig this eve.

Sun. Aug. 20

So all eat here except Tuckers. They room at Miss F’s. & eat at Gl’s. We all had cafateria supper here. stewed dried pears & prunes that they brot. I kept Billy & the girls during mtg. We’re sorry Williams aren’t here. but it’s nice not to have an extra table on veranda. We are just 12 at table.

Mon. Aug. 21

Men went for elephant as Mr Tucker has ammunition. They got none. nor saw any. Cl. Mr. T. and Theo. go hunting tomorrow and the crowd goes to the Lake on Wed. Mrs P & I stay home. She & I worked at puzzles to straighten em out but found much missing.

Tues. Aug. 22

Cl. Mr. Tucker & Theo. left very early for the camp at the Semliki to hunt. They get meat for Mt. porters. they want to climb next wk. took most of bread so baked again today. All packed for the rest to go to lake tomorrow. Dad too if no rain.

Wed. Aug. 23

A nice day & folks had a grand time. Billy’s first trip. Dad got pretty tired. Teasdale car came back by 6. Brot fish all cleaned ready to fry. & we fried all. Saw lots of animals. Mrs P & I worked at a Dutch picture - jig saw. Got it all done finally.

Thur. Aug. 24

Billy slept very well. Dad is not peppy. Folks getting ready for Mt. Tuckers both - Cl, Mr. T. & Theo. Too bad to be at it over Sun. but Mr. de W. called porters & urged them to get on. before some one else came. Pr. mtg tonight. Baked again. & every thing empty now. Mail came.

Fri. Aug. 25

They were off before 9. and how I’d like to peek & see how Mrs. Tucker is. If Billy were a bottle baby Gl. could have gone along. I baked cookies etc so wont have so much to do tomorrow. Dad isn’t at all well these days. Sweats so now. Mrs. Ps arms are much better.

Sat. Aug. 26

Didn’t bake much but took all A.M. Mail man sick so sent another. Billy sleeps from midnight to morning now - better than Dad! Mrs. P. & I played ch. ch. She won both games by 1 move. Andrea didn’t do his work & I had chance to practice my pr mtg message but didn’t succeed very well. Rainy some.

Sun. Aug. 27

Showery this morning. I took care of babe but he slept all the time. We wonder just where the folks up the Mt. are - likely at 3^rd camp. Mtgs here as usual.

Mon. Aug. 28

Sent man to Beni and for butter at Cath. Mission where de Wildes are. Some rain again. Corned some of the buck. Knitting a bit at Jim’s sweater. hope twill be better fitting. but am not sure.

Tues. Aug. 29

Folks got back - all but Tuckers got in for dinner. Tuckers came by supper time. All got up to glaciers. She is stiff but feels alright otherwise. All had supper here. Banana bread. good.

Wed. Aug. 30

Had strawberries. & made most 2 qts. jam. All enjoyed them. Mrs Tucker is quite stiff but otherwise fine. I finished sweater last eve. Letter from de W’s - little Christine was born the 24. So glad it’s a girl. Other mail came too. Ray was at Hooppole first of Aug.

Thur. Aug. 31

Getting mail things ready - but the man will take only bag as the folks will go Mon. & take letters. Dad has taken quinine course 20 a day for 3 days. His stomach is not yet as it should be.

Fri. Sept. 1

Cl. Mr. Tucker, Mr. B, Theo. and Paul have gone to Semliki hunting. Mrs. B. is having trouble, so stays a bed. It’s hard to keep the girls out of her room. Baked b. cake & cup cakes. Angeline sleeps with Gl. Got pictures of baby & groups.

Sat. Sept. 2

Mrs. B. still hemorrhages so stays down. Men came just after we started lunch up at Dads hut. Brot water buck. Boys get a lot. Had cafeteria b. supper. Chicken salad potato chips. little cakes, canned peaches & coffee. Put puzzles together til most midnight. [note from following year: “Really it was after.”]

Sun. Sept. 3

Dad had a bad night. His stomach is so upset. Mr. Teasdale gave him some tabs so hope they’ll help. I kept babe then Dad got up & took care of him while I went for communion service. All ate supper here. had b. cake - chicken noodle soup - potato salad. jello. This is National day of Prayer. 5^th anni of commencement of war.

Mon. Sept. 4

Teasdales have decided to go to Rethi & return here. Tuckers will stay a bit longer. Had strawberries. Some rain this P.M. Corned most of the buck meat but will fry some for jars tomorrow. Army in France getting near German border.

Tues. Sept. 5

[arrow drawn from previous day’s entry “Corned most of the buck meat...”] Canned 3 qts. Had break by 5:15 & they got away ab’t 6. Dad thinks his whole trouble is he hasn’t right food. so am making rice dishes - chicken soup. Mr B. wanted to take Cl. & Gl to Dr. Woodhams - but Dad wont go. so they didn’t. Mail hasn’t come so Tuckers wont go tomorrow.

Wed. Sept. 6

Mail was here early. Tuckers are staying. He & Cl went to out school below Sibindiris to shoot meat for builders. Dad keeps so miserable he thinks we sh’d go to Kenya with Bissets. but our p.p. visa is not yet here. Bissets & Miss N. go to Beni tomorrow.

Thur. Sept. 7

And I went too & Miss N. took us to hotel for lunch. I asked Dr. Mol when yellow fever inj. are given at Butembo. He said Sat. at 9 A.M. At first Dad said he can’t go. but may be able to. We got back in good time.

Fri. Sept. 8

Because Tuckers car is so closed in Mr. B. offered his & Dad has his chair in back & thinks he’ll be alright. Mr. B. will drive. Tuckers go as they want the inoculation too. We’ll leave ab’t 5 A.M. to get there by 9.

Sat. Sept. 9

Got off after 5 & got there a bit before 9 & then found it wasn’t open til 11. While waiting Paul Hs came. & some of the school children. We had a nice visit. Helen Jr had to hold Billy for a bit. Dad stood it very well - tho got no rest as it rained when we lunched. Miss N. sent lovely salad and upside down cake for sup & bowl of chicken soup for Dad.

Sun. Sept. 10

Every one pretty tired, so had a quiet day. All ate dinner & supper here. Tuckers leave early so said goodby this eve. They have thermos of tea in their room - & will eat break at Oicha.

Mon. Sept. 11

T’s got off early. Gl & I didn’t hear them. Just as we finished dinner Jim, Ag. & Evelyn came & they had just finished when Teasdale load came. Bells left ab’t 3. Mrs P. has cut out a dress for Mrs. T. Mrs Bisset is not feeling well at all. I have a nasty cold. but Dad seems better..

Tues. Sept. 12

Cold is still very annoying. Mrs. T’s dress is ab’t finished. I mended some. All sorts of plans are in the air. Miss N. thinks Gl. should see a Dr. soon - says Dr. Woodhams hasn’t whats necessary - so guess we’ll all go to K. when visas come.

Wed. Sept. 13

Mrs. P. cut & sewed a dress for herself. The Ryter family came while we were eating supper. but were ready to go to hotel at M-. Cl. 3 Ts and Mr B. are leaving for Usumbura in morning. Ryters saw Nixons & Wepplers on way to Stan. & U.S.A.

Thur. Sept. 14

Dad pretty miserable. No pain but no strength. The folks came ab’t 10. Our men got away ab’t 6:15 for USA. Had a pleasant day. tea at 4 and they left. Our supper was buns & sausage that Yuda was frying.

Fri. Sept. 15

Pr. Day so met at 8. Wonder if Camarouners got away to the Lake. Gave them 2 nets and a debe of bananas & limes. Rained hard down that way & later, here. Wrote Ray air. Wonder if they are getting to Costermansville tonight. Made Scrapple.

Sat. Sept. 16

Ab’t 4 PM. here the men came. Can’t get petrol down that way so when they got to Kisenyi they returned. Slept at Kitsombiro last night. Saw Moules at Rutchuru. They were to come here but couldn’t bring their car out of Stan. no petrol. Guess they wont get here neither will Ryters get to Kivu.

Sun. Sept. 17

As usual. Had heavy rain this P.M. and report has come the second bridge is out. K. folks wont get away tomorrow then. Visited after meeting til 10:15.

Mon. Sept. 18

Dad had a hard chill ab’t 3. but seems alright now. Men worked at bridge but only ab’t 1/3 done - so can’t go yet. I’m not sorry. Had strawberries today & station supper celebrating Mr. T’s birthday which was the 15^th. Made cake. Theo helpt with icing.

Tues. Sept. 19

Did biscuits & hot rolls for all day thinking they might want the bread for safari. but they are not leaving tomorrow as the bridge is not done. Cl. & Gl. eat here. Dad is quiet today but feels alright. Wonder what John has done to celebrate. [Raymond & Sarahs son John, 8 yrs old]

Wed. Sept. 20

Now the bridges are fixed & all are packed up ready for early start. No mail man here yet. Ryters & Cozzins returned nets they borrowed for Lake trip & sent such a lot of lovely fish. Had big feed for supper & lots more for break & lunch.

Thur. Sept. 21

Overslept but still had break ready by 5:30 & they got away a bit after 6. Pretty packed. They go via Ft. Portal. Hope all went well. Got bedding all washed but no sweeping done. I’m so tired I couldn’t do much. Dad feeling better. creamed fish for supper. I’t so good. Mail came & have all ready to send in morning.

Fri. Sept. 22

Cloudy & rainy so worked outside transplanting & putting in cuttings. Got mail man off. Wish we could peek & see where Kenya folks are. Cl worked at car - but doesn’t seem fixed yet. Wrote Willsons. Mended & putting things away.

Sat. Sept. 23

Baked cherry pie and a birthday cake for Miss N. Aren’t having any celebration. Gl. made a large box of a variety of candies. Sewed at old shirts. will sell to the help. Cl & Gl here to supper. wonder so where Kenya folks are.

Sun. Sept. 24 [Miss Noweck’s birthday]

Very, very quiet day. Time for reading writing, resting & a walk to the guest house. Just before supper it began to rain & got cold & windy so we sent word to the neighbors there’d be no service. Sent Miss N. cake & Congo Cook Book. She sent us some of the cake. Haven’t seen her all day.

Mon. Sept. 25

Mended and pembed spots in guest room. Rained hard ab’t 3 P.M. All clear at supper time so went to Cl’s. Billy didn’t like his new bed so wouldn’t sleep. She is painting the bassinet. He is gaining twice as much as a baby usually does.

Tues. Sept. 26

Mail came ab’t dark. our visa but not Cl’s. Took down tent. mended & made strawberry jam. Am getting things together slowly. Told the help today ab’t plans and course all are glad for vacation from work. Ella writes they’d like to stay 1 wk after Conf.

Wed. Sept. 27

Still trying to get at rug rags but there seems so much to take my time. Cl. is ab’t sick with bad cold. Killed couple chickens. Showers every P.M. Sent a note to de Wildes. They’ll come on Sat. to weigh the baby.

Thur. Sept. 28

A message from Mr Ryters from Camp Ruindi - he found the part Cl. needs in the junk heaps there. We are grateful. Our man came from Oicha & brot butter. Good! but no car permit yet. Waffles at Gl’s.

Fri. Sept. 29

Covered 2 pillows. Pembed sitting room & bath room. Got corner room ready to do tomorrow. Men brot pembe from Semliki. Masikini helpt Yuda & they made waffles for supper. The rabbits got out several times today. Miss N. will help Yuda with meals while Com. are here.

Sat. Sept. 30

Boys pembed corner guest room. but must do it again on Mon. putting white over gray. de Wildes came to weigh Christine. 7 wks. old. She’s like a doll. Took several pictures - cause Billy will be 3 mo. tomorrow.

Sun. Oct. 1

Quiet day for us. Cl. had meeting all P.M. They ate here as per usual. Dad staid with Billy during morning service. How I wish Macs or some one were here to take over now when we go.

Mon. Oct. 2

Pembed corner room again & the floor too. Mr. de Wilde wrote a nice note to say he would go to customs with Cl. & would try to get us thro if we wanted to. but we feel we must wait for Cl’s p.p. He will go to Beni tomorrow for the mail & if p.p. comes we will be glad for help to leave soon.

Tues. Oct. 3

Miss Noweck finds Dad’s urine pretty full of sugar - so we know a little more of his trouble. Cl went but got no p.p. but baby pictures came & they write they sent 3 to Am. Con. so p.p. should come next wk. Some folks from Leo. called here today - a Sedec man. & wife & little girl. Staying at hotel. Lots of nice mail.

Wed. Oct. 4

Picked berries - made a little jam & had fresh berries for both meals. Getting a few letters ready. Thot Dad would be very disappointed at not getting away but he doesn’t seem to be.

Thur. Oct. 5

Getting pads made for Billy’s bed. also altering a pyjama suit for Dad. G. had dining room pembed yesterday. looks nice now again. So nice having them eat here. They often bring Billy.

Fri. Oct. 6

Yuda has been off all week but think he must come next wk. There are so many things for him to see to when we go. Masikini does very well - they pembed bed room. Lots of nice ivory came from Anges.

Sat. Oct. 7

Masikini made lovely Cape Gooseberry jelly & I strasberry jelly. Today I cut Dad’s hair & he still complains so much of pain in left shoulder & ear & that side of neck. How we wish Dr. were here now. we’d not be planning for Kenya. I’m not at all enthusiastic. Especially since Uhlingers are on the way back. I’d like much to be here when they come.

Sun. Oct. 8

Quiet day - services as usual. Billy is growing so & getting so interesting. Is eating mashed banana too. Tonight we were planning on how far to travel each day and what Dad’s food would be. We found in Ency- no bread nor sugar. green vegs. & meat, cheese, eggs.

Mon. Oct. 9

Mail man came while we were at dinner table - NO Visa! Too bad but God knows best. Word from Ella that Bob died Sept. 28. How fine for him after such awful suffering - but poor Mary & Loraine. Perhaps car permit will come tomorrow. Dad doesn’t feel so bad today. Pembed kitchen. Ate 2 meals at Cl’s. No butter from de Wildes.

Tues. Oct. 10

Just did what I could. We pembed dining room floor - now have things pretty well in order. only floor not dry yet. Will eat at Cl’s for break. then get settled. Billy has a bit of porridge, prune & banana.

Wed. Oct. 11

Beni man came while we were praying - & brot permit. Now we do hope the visa will come Sat. Cl. Gl. & Miss N. are expecting to go to Katwa for dental work Fri. & back to Oicha Sat. & bring the mail. Then if it comes we can leave on Tues. or even Mon. Dad has pain today.

Thur. Oct. 12

Dad had restless painful night. De Wilde writes they come on Mon. to get census of men & families. Cl. thinks the reg. letter slip that came last eve may be the p.p. but ours came to Irumu. I do hope so. Dad has been pretty unhappy today - a lot of pain.

Fri. Oct. 13

They got away before 6:30 and haven’t come back yet so suppose they got no passport at Beni - for, if they found it there they were returning & we’d leave tomorrow. I made grape nuts - baked oatmeal crackers for dad & did various things for Gl. Mended song books - stuffed baby pillow.

Sat. Oct. 14

They came ab’t 6:30. No teeth fixed & no p.p. mail brot $5. remittance!!! It seems all doors are closing. We do so want His will. Paul H. was away. so they spent the night at Oicha. Agnes had hurt wrist & was going to Stan for Xray. Letters from Shaffers at Lisbon. Mr Braun at Beni says Cl. could take us to Kampala & he return. Dad says no.

Sun. Oct. 15

I didn’t rest so well for thinking of Dad & how hard it would be to wait another wk. Dad rested better than for some time - so he doesn’t seem to be worrying. Meetings as usual. Cl’s eat here all the time as Masikini went to Katwa

Mon. Oct. 16

De Wildes came as per plan. So there wasn’t much work done. Was thro by 4:15 & had tea before they left. Babe is growing nicely. Had some trouble ab’t some of our old fellows - I signed off one. has 3 wives!!! Venus shown out so bright ‘tween dark clouds.

Tues. Oct. 17

Jammed 3 qts of strawberries. Cleaned my Agnes dress. & put red dodad in front. darned holes in it. Gl. cut out aprons etc for Conf. - I’ll sew tomorrow. Getting mail ready.

Wed. Oct. 18

My I wish we had Dr. Becker like last yr. Dad seems to be holding his own. Some food stays down & some doesn’t. Got cash at Cls & will pay up some men & leave for others. Miss F. led.

Thur. Oct. 19

Baked. & packed a bit more. Dad took walk this P.M. Had Billy here quite a bit so Gl. finished her pink dress. Miss N. killed pig. We should know by this time tomorrow night if we go Sat. or Mon. either they should be here or they wont come til Sat.

Fri. Oct. 20

Am. invaded Philippines. Sort o’ half packed so we could leave in the morning but no car has come 8:30. so we wonder. will we get away on Mon.? Dad seems to be feeling pretty good. Staid up til now. Wonder if Betty has had a happy day, no doubt. Cake is ready but we didn’t cut it.

Sat. Oct. 21

They came ab’t 7. and brot p.p. so I suppose we are off on Mon. We’re all excited. & hope we wont forget any thing. Baked cake for the anniversary tomorrow. & pie shells. will make filling in morning. lemon. Dad keeps his food down today.

Sun. Oct. 22 [Claudon & Gladys 2^nd anniversary]

While folks were in church 3 folks came from hotel to see Cl. ab’t where to get elephants! Ella entertained ‘em til Cl. came. They could speak no Eng. All had supper here. I gave Gl. some writing paper & Cl. Frcs. 100. Took pictures of them.

Mon. Oct. 23 Mbarara

Got away most 7. took quite a while at Customs. had to leave our cameras!!! Never had such trouble before. every time it’s something new. I didn’t know it & so film was left in. Dad stood the trip pretty well. Had very nice dinner here at Ankole hotel. Babe got very hot & fussy as it took long at pontoon & ‘twas hot.

Tues. Oct. 24

Jinja - And O what a day. left Mb. just at day light & made good time til 9 when we stopt & ate which took just over an hr. then ran into rain. Stopt at Masaka & got petrol permit to get to Kam. & sent Hoyts a wire. Then very hard rain & wind we stopt for ½ hr or more. then just started & got into dust. etc. again just 2 mi. out side Kam. came down awful. drove all around to get petrol permits - didn’t do any shopping & didn’t even get there in time for tea. Got here 6:30. Have nice room. Cls in cottage.

Wed. Oct. 25 Kaimosi.

And glad to be here. Had fair night - good rooms & meals. and got off after break. Had good trip til we got into heavy rain again. Got here by 3 P.M. Dad & I are at Dr. Bonds as Hoyts are expecting Horns tomorrow for ‘few days. Drs. were away. Came ab’t 6. Will look over Dad tomorrow. Dad was feeling pretty sick & had pain so went to bed. I brot soup & tea over.

Thur. Oct. 26

Have started out pretty well. Read “Lucinda” today. Feel sort of chilly. Guess I took cold. Had Billy here for a while. Gl. was doing washing. Took a bit for boy to do. Horns have come. Billy will be done tomorrow. Dr. can’t find sugar in Dad’s urine. Will try again. We went over & Dr. looked him over pretty thoroly - but has made no comment on his condition.

Fri. Oct. 27

(written next day) More tests & still no sugar. Billy cried so hard - when here. Dad feels better but still has nausea. I had a bad chill right after dinner and back ache etc. Dr. injected atabrin. Head aches & feel miserable. Mrs. Bond is so concerned. Slept all eve and pretty well during night.

Sat. Oct. 28

Out to breakfast. and feel almost normal. Dr. thinks I better take course of Atabrin. Still can find nothing wrong with Dad. Dr. has tried every test he knows of. Billy is his sunny self again. Rainy - Sports at Kisumu but ‘twas very muddy. Cl. went with Mr. Hoyt & others. Earl came for wk end & says Rays & H Hs are booked.

Sun. Oct. 29

Very quiet day. Drs. seem to carry on their work as always. Cl & Gl. brot Billy to have Dr. see him. He has a tooth & is very happy ab’t it. Thot I’d write Myrtle and Gail but never picked up my pen. Can’t work up ambition for any thing. Dr. has discharged Dad. Can’t find any thing. but advises Xray in Nakuru or Nairobi. He keeps his food down much better.

Later: Dad played some hymns on piano - last music he made on earth.

Mon. Oct. 30

Dr. had a night call. Dad continues to have trouble with bowels - especially during the night. I knitted a bit and read some and fixed red collar - and so the day passed. Dr. touched up the corner of my eye where it’s been scratching - feels pretty sore.

Tues. Oct. 31

I read quite a bit - hope to finish “Keys of the Kingdom” by Cronin. Knitted some too and after baths washed out some clothes. Went over to Hoyts 3 times. The men went to Eldoret. Hornes here for supper, only he didn’t eat as he had headache.

Wed. Nov. 1

Billy 4 mo. Dr. and Mrs. Bond made a trip to an out dispensary. They go every Wed. I finished “Keys of Kingdom”. Pretty good. Cl & Gl came over after tea. Mrs. Keller wrote she wants us badly so we will go tomorrow. P.M. wrote Housdens. Mr Hoyt called & visited.

Thur. Nov. 2

Billy has almost cut his second tooth. We are at Mrs K’s. She is selling out and will go home eventually. She is so jolly again - more like her former self. We had dinner at Kaimosi. They have been so good to us. Gave Gl. another treatment & says that is all that’s necessary now.

Fri. Nov. 3 Ravine

Left Mrs. K’s after break. Kitts came to see us - also McBrides. Dad rested well, but he got very tired today. Ate the lunch Mrs K fixed, on Londiani hotel veranda & had tea. Got here ab’t 1 P.M. All well here. We in east room. Cl & Gl across hall.

Sat. Nov. 4

Boys worked so hard all day at cutting up trees, Cl’s hands are blistered. Letter from Mrs Innis wanting us to come. We can’t now. Dad had lots of pain so I got hot water bottle. Gets awfully cold toward morn. Billy shivered so in his bath, so she’ll bathe him in our room after this. It’s so sunny & nice.

Sun. Nov. 5

Mr B., Cl, & Paul went to 3 out churches. didn’t get back til 7 P.M. Carl’s first birthday. Had nice tea & cake. Dad has no pain today but is so weak. He has break. in bed. Comes down for dinner & then again to tea & stays on couch til supper. Had accident. handle of bucket broke & spilled on stairs steps.

Mon. Nov. 6

Still working at the wood. When they are finished Cl. & Paul are going for a hunt. If Dad continues as he is we will go to Nairobi next week some time. at least to Kjb. and make an appointment with Dr. for Dad. Wrote Shaffers, Pearsons & finished Oicha-Ruwenzori. I get so hungry - I’m sure I’m gaining.

Tues. Nov. 7

The 3 women went to dukas this A.M. & this P.M. Paul took mama B. and some natives and Cl. to Nakuru. Natives went to hospital. Gl. & I sewed at Mrs. Teasdale’s dress. Gl. cut it out at home. No news yet ab’t election but may get it later.

Wed. Nov. 8

A hard day for Dad. He gave up his dinner and almost his supper. We had decided to go to Kjb. on Mon. Now he thinks we should go on Fri so are sending Dr. Davis a wire to make appointment with Dr. McCaldin for Mon. We’ve ab’t finished Mrs. Teasdales dress. Letter from Innises - they tried mailing cheese to us but failed.

Thur. Nov. 9

Pretty well packed & ready. Also a bad night of vomiting. Ate almost no dinner. Dad had a flare of fever ab’t 2 P.M. So when it came down Mrs. B. gave him a needle of quinine. We hope it helps. He has been taking quinine but doesn’t seem to help. Washed & ironed. Rained pretty hard at dark.

Fri. Nov. 10 Kijabe

How thankful we are to get here. Our appointment with Dr. McCaldin is Mon. P.M. Dad had quite hi temp when we stopt for lunch. Had tea at Naivasha but he had to spit some up. Ruth was in Nairobi so Mrs Jester sent “Mix” to stop vomitting & it has helped. Ate bit of jello. They aren’t giving him a needle. he’s had a hard sweat. Ken. & Ivy called too. Hope for a good night. Mrs. P. said Mr. Sywulka died last week.

Sat. & Sun. Nov. 11 & 12

This has been the saddest day for me and the happiest for Dad. It started as all days do - Dad hadn’t a very restful night. but no worse than others. He had a bit of breakfast. I wanted to read Daily Light to him but he wasn’t very comfortable so I waited. he didn’t keep his breakfast down but wanted hot drinks often. only to give them up along with yellow bile, apparently.

He wanted a bath at 11 & ate some vegs. at noon. I fed him as he was shaking so. Kens family came & he shook hands with them. Then Cl & Gl & Billy came. he seemed as always - (to back of book) Cont. from Nov. 10, 1944. but ab’t 4 P.M. Ruth said his heart was getting weaker. He was very restless and was tired and wanted a needle to quiet him. She gave it him. but he kept coughing & spitting up bitter stuff. He said he had no pain but was tired. He’d sit up on edge of bed by spells. Ab’t 7 Cl & Ken went for Dr. A number of folks called and Ruth phoned for Gl. to come. He’d have spells of stupor. I kept rubbing his cold hands. & wiping perspiration from forehead & arms.

Once when Mr. Bisset stood at foot of bed he reached out his hand as tho to shake hands goodby. Once he said “You went”. I had told him earlier in the evening that Ruth said his heart was getting weak. but I didn’t think the end was so near. Once tears trickled from his eyes. He kept moving his arms sometimes putting under his head - and often pulling at covers. Sometimes he seemed to be looking for some one. Gladys said do you want Cl? he will soon come and when he came with the Dr. he brightened up at once. Once Gl. wanted me to lie down - & she sit beside him then he sort o’ held my wrist as tho he wanted me to stay.

When Dr came I went to other side of bed. It was 11 and I had looked at the clock every few min. from 9 on. Dr. tapped over his spleen & stomach & shook his head. He took blood slide. Then left telling Ruth he wouldn’t live til morning. After Dr. left & Cl, Gl & I were alone with him I read again the Daily Light “He led them on safely” “My angel goeth before etc”. So helpful as we saw him slipping away.

Gl. wanted me to lie down on my bed. I said I would if she w’d too. Cl. sat beside Dad. I had tried to keep composed and not cry for it was so hard for Cl. but when I let myself think that Dad was really going I just felt like a good cry - and sort of let myself go - when there was a sharp pain - most as tho I’d been shot went across the top of my head & down back of my neck - I cried out for pain - and felt I couldn’t stand it. They rubbed my head & then Mrs. P & I went outside for a bit of air and when we came in Dad was breathing his last gasps.

It just doesn’t seem possible. I miss him on every side. I wanted to help dress him but my head was splitting & I was sick to my stomach. They put his pretty shirt on & tie and his nice suit. It’s miles too big for him now but it looks nice. Cl. took me to Ruths for the night. I took aspirin and slept ab’t 2 hrs. My head was better & when it was light I went to Mrs P’s. & got dressed and combed. Mr. Bisset went to Nairobi for casket and informed friends there and brot lovely flowers. The casket was dark wood lined with white & small pillow After it was closed they covered it with the largest calla lilies I ever saw. stems a yd. long.

Before they got there with the casket I had had a quiet time of prayer beside his bed. and a rest on my bed. It just seemed he was asleep. I went ab’t the room quietly so as not to awaken him. Among the lilies were strewn red and white carnations. Every one who came brot some lovely floral piece. Rhoads, (he spoke) Powleys, Davises (he spoke.) Stephenson young folks. Milan Lany, Dalziels sent flowers. Barnetts - Ruth telephoned - they left their meeting & went out into the Reserve & got Mr. B & came. Paul sang “No night there”. Mr B spoke too and there were others. Mrs P. & I rode with Mr. T. to cemetery. There were lots of lovely flowers. Ivy sang “Sleep on Beloved”. See report of the service. He sleeps beside Chas Scudder. It couldn’t have been nicer if we had planned it all ourselves. The Lord surely timed it all.

Drs. said cancer of stomach and spleen - very much like Chas. Scudder only he (Chas) suffered much more. Dr. Bond wrote the Dr. he suspicioned it was cancer but he didn’t hint any thing to us. Sometimes I wish we had known a bit of what was coming. We could have talked things over and perhaps I’d know better what to do with things. But God knew & He knows now and will guide. My head was very touchy all day Sun & Sun. night ached hard most all night. but took aspirin Mon. morning and went to town as per plan all along - only we left Dad behind. He didn’t need his appointment with the Dr. so Gl. wanted me to go. I did & so did she.

My headaches are nerves & weariness - heart needs more rest. Gl. needs some slight treatment she can do herself. Thank God we are so well. Dad &I had planned & talked long ago - before the boys were born of going together whenever the end came - and when my head was so bad I thot perhaps I could go too but it seems I hadn’t finished my work. May I carry on as He wills and be a great blessing to others. I know not what I’ll do but w’d like to carry on at Rw. if it seems best. I must be busy. We hope soon to hear when Rays are coming. Can’t make very definite plans til they come.

Mon. Nov. 13 Machakos.

We came to Nairobi but not as planned for the heart of the family does not need a Dr. now. Gl. needs only such treatment as she can do herself. My heart isn’t perfect but it’s the only faulty member. After tea we went to M. Got there ab’t 6. and had lovely visit. Mrs G. showed us her scrap books and recounted much of her experiences. She speaks at Y.M.C.A. on Thurs. would like to hear her.

Tues. Nov. 14

Mrs. Guilding would get us some break. It rained hard in the night & was still at it when we got to town. Boys went to the “dump”. Got some things but not all they wanted. Ken & Mr. Teasdale came in. Had babe’s picture taken & my lenses put into new frames. did not need new lenses. Stopt at Stephensons - got home ab’t 7:15. Cl & Paul got here earlier. We with Ken.

Wed. Nov. 15

Mrs. V. Andersen called. She is here because Margaret is sick. We have such common interests now. The Lord let Dad & me have 10 yrs. longer than she & Mr. A. The boys have left on hunting trip. We go tomorrow to Syabei and they spend Sun. with us. Letter from Innises. How happy we were last yr. Will I ever get over going quietly into my room - for fear he may be asleep?

Thur. Nov. 16

Bissets finally came ab’t 3 P.M. & we spent an hr. getting petrol and the road as far as the little hill was awful. We got here after 8 & had supper & beds made by 9:30. all so tired. Pretty much as always from all I can see in the dark. Gl & I have west room. B’s east.

Fri. Nov. 17

The day was filled with greeting old friends. and walking around the place - every sq. in. reeks with memories. How happy Dad would be to see the large irrigated gardens. & all other places so dry. Mulungit showed us the spring where Dad & Scudder worked so hard & he has led water out to irrigate many gardens.

Sat. Nov. 18

The boys came just as we came back from Narok. We do enjoy our meals. Several others came to greet us. We had lovely picnic supper at Lake. I finished knitting the sock Mrs. T. started in Congo. Wrote Grindley. Am thinking so much of a wk. ago. I’ve lived it all over again & again. What a happy wk it has been for him. How I was watching the clock - expecting the Dr. It is now 9.

Sun. Nov. 19

Went to S.S. - there are a nice lot of children about 40 in attendance. Geo M. has charge. Parmale was there too. He conducted main service. read I Cor. 2:1-10 as Dad’s message to them. Paul B. preached in Swahili. After m’t’g was women’s pr. mtg under the trees. Then goodbys began. So nice to see Lois of M. I do pray M. may be drawn nearer to God by Dad’s going. I’ve promised to pray each morning for Syabei.

Mon. Nov. 20 [Kijabe]

Boys were up & off before day light. Cl felt pretty miserable last eve. Had cold. but seemed better this morn. We packed up & after more goodbyes left ab’t 10:30. Ate under the chai tree on top. Not bad at all coming in as we faced wind. Gl & Billy stopt here & will spend the wk. with us. Quite a few letters of sympathy here. I shall keep all. No word from nor ab’t Rays.

Tues. Nov. 21

It’s so nice having Gl. & Billy here. He has some hard crying spells. Guess it’s teeth. Harriet called with her Rollin. He’s a mo. older than Billy but looks much more. he’s tall and very active. Wrote some letters. Washed big wash & ironed some. Have laundered the last of Dad’s clothes.

Wed. Nov. 22

Mrs. P. went to Nairobi with Ruth. Gl & I went to Kens for tea. & hustled back to get chairs ready for pr. mtg. and found Mrs P. had returned. & mail came. & a wire from Buyse saying furlo money for Cls. was ready & Rays have sailed. We are pretty excited. This all helps us to decide our return.

Thur. Nov. 23

Gl. working at her red dress. material Lo sent me. It’s going to be pretty. I bathed Billy - & washed & wrote Gail & Peter & Son. All went to Henriettas for tea. Very nice. I do so want to get to cemetery. Rained hard before tea. Gl. told of Ruth’s plans. She & Bob G. broke some time ago & now she’s getting ready to marry Tom Collins. We are very glad.

Fri. Nov. 24

Telegram from Bells - sympathy. I just thot I’d have to go to the cemetery today but Gl. is making her red dress & I washed for & took care of Billy as much as I could & when I finished it was raining. I feel so heavy & think a visit to the grave w’d help but not if I neglected my work. All went to Teasdales for Thanksgiving dinner. Twas very late but O so good. They had it today as Jesters leave on Mon. Gl. wore her new dress. Mrs. P. & I also wore red and Henrietta.

Sat. Nov. 25

Gl. and Mrs. P. were both so ill in the night & Gl didn’t eat this morning. It’s bed time & no boys back yet. Ruth brot mat. for wedding dress (what Gl. gave her) & Gl helped cut it out. Ruth & Tom Collins will be married Dec. 22. Tea at Devitts for children. Helen’s birthday party. older folks afterward. Mrs. Teasdale is ill too. She & Gl. didn’t “tea”.

Sun. Nov. 26

Just as I put my light out at 10. The boys drove in. We had been watching a light out on the plains & it was they. Ken moved Gl & Billy to their house yesterday. Boys brot eland but got no lion. I walked to cemetery ab’t 11 & across to Ts for dinner. others came later. To Harriets for tea. Service at 4:30. Ruth is telling folks today of the coming event Dec. 22.

Mon. Nov. 27

Writing at letters. Gl. feels better. They came down for a while. Gl. helps with the wedding clothes. This P.M. most every one went to train to see Jesters & Ida Rhodes off. They go via Leo. & Lisbon. We’ve wired to know when Rays are expected. Have decided to go to town tomorrow.

Tues. Nov. 28

Got away ab’t 10:30. Did a bit of shopping before lunch & then ate at Norfolk. Ken went with us. Cl. got a gun. We got things for Congo. I got a new hat. Got to Davises for late tea. Chatted & then ran into rain as we left town. Mrs Shellenberg is at Davises waiting. Gl. gave her some announcements that she had left.

Wed. Nov. 29

Went to Kens for dinner - fish etc. Yum. staid a while then went to Bible School & got books for Mulungit. Will make up a parcel for him. am giving him Dads white striped shirt. Ken is trying the new ones. Pr. mtg here. The lace dress is most done & so pretty.

Thur. Nov. 30

Cl went with Ken & Mr. T. to Githumu. Ivy asked me over while Cl. is away. I’ll go all day tomorrow. at least til supper time. Chas. P. came last eve. from Litein where he is to build Miss Nicodemus’ house but materials aren’t ready. Letters from Guilding & Ruby. Ans. G. tonight. She wants to know ab’t ivory. Lots of rain this eve.

Fri. Dec. 1

Ivy called for me right after break. & I spent til tea time there. then Gl & I went to Ruths for tea. She dressed in her wedding dress & veil and does look so nice. - Gl’s all over lace that came too late for her - Got several letters off. Got some nice brown wool from Ivy.

Sat. Dec. 2

After breakfast had bath & then went to Ivy’s again. staid to tea & Gl. & Billy brot me home & I walked back with them. Mrs. P. has n. gown done. so pretty. Ruth got her ring today. Had word yesterday that Godfrey Scudder has gone to glory. He was in hospital. but we know no details. All day talking & thinking ab’t 3 wks ago.

Sun. Dec. 3

Went to native service at 9:30 and at 11 Gl. & I went to cemetery. then Mrs P & I to Henriettas for lunch. Chas is here now for a while. Finished reading “Rendezvous with Victory” by Ella Noller. Very good. To 4 P.M. meeting & communion. Gl. was to take Mrs P & me to Edie’s for supper. but broke key in car so Chas brot her down after Billy had his supper. He had had a very bad night.

Mon. Dec. 4

Very rainy all day. Gl. came with Ivy as she went to P.M. school. She helpt me sort & choose ivory for different friends. Also wrapped Hazel Hill’s sheets and Ruths ivory vase for their weddings. Helpt Mrs P. mix & bake the fruit cake for Ruths wedding. Smells good. Dill pickles are almost ready to eat now. No wire yet, nor Congo mail.

Tues. Dec. 5

Cl & Gl. came this A.M. Cl. brot the May 8 party pictures. I so feared they were lost. Gl. brot Billy’s outing flannel jacket blue & I crocheted around it. No wire yet. I’m so sorry for it seems we sh’d be getting back. Ruth came for tea & to sample the cake. Gl. didn’t come twas so rainy. Cake is good. Car key got broken & can’t get another so may have to get new switch.

Wed. Dec. 6

Henrietta not very well & it was her turn for pr. mtg. so Mrs. P. asked me to lead. I went to Kens & did typing of the funeral service as I want to post some. No wire yet, so we may go Fri morning. Mrs. P. & I at R.V.A. for dinner. Rained very hard in the night. Most lakes & puddles on plain are gone & it’s all green. Reading “Mary ‘Gusta” - good. We do miss Dad’s help in deciding what to do ab’t going.

Thur. Dec. 7

Cl. sent another wire asking if they had rec’d the first. and no mail came either today. So, we wont go til Sat. & perhaps not til Tues. for mail might come on Mon. Knitted quite a bit at sweater & got some ivory & letters sent. Bissets went to Nairobi. Took walk to cemetery just for exercise.

Fri. Dec. 8

No wire yet but some Congo mail today and Bissets said Davises had word that Uhlingers had arrived. We hope they’ll be at Rw. We expect now to leave next Tues for Ravine - Kericho, Litein, Kellers, Kaimosi & on Mon. for Jinja & Wed. Rw. - hope so. 4 wks ago tonight. Dad was still here - tired and weak but expecting to go to Nairobi on Mon... or did he know he wasn’t going?

Sat. Dec. 9

What a glorious day. So sunny & the grass so green. Took a walk to cemetery and spent some time there. Wish it had been pleasant like this 4 wks ago. but the Lord knew best. Have reviewed again & again the doings then. How good is God. Met Cl & Gl. at book shop & got some books. Supper at R.V.A. for staff etc. Cl & Gl went too. We talked & looked over pictures til 10:15 (see back)

Sun. Dec. 10

Attended native service. 5 graduated from Bible school. A lovely sunny A.M. Gl & I went to S.S. too then walked up to old Hurlburt house terrace. Mrs P & I at Kens for dinner. Service at 4:30. Mrs. Lehrer called to talk ab’t shower for Ruth. She & Miss Read called too til most bed time. Mrs P. has drawn instructions for making cloth doll.

Sun. Dec. 10^th. A.M. [from back of book]

Four wks. ago now Dad lay, dressed and waiting for his last bed. This is a grand sunny day - There has been such lots of rain all these wks. that every thing is lovely and green. The hillside is wonderful. All so quiet with the hush of Sun. over all. Bell calls for meetings - then dark skinned folks quietly hustling along the paths to meeting.

By another Sun. we will have left - it’s hard to think of going and leaving Dad behind. I had wished so much I could stay too - just to lie beside him in that quiet spot. but God is All wise and knows what is best. My heart hurts much - like a muscular hurt when I climb up from Teasdales or so - and perhaps a lower altitude will be better for me - hadn’t noticed it much at Ruwenzori.

My big regret now is that I failed the Lord at the time when I might have glorified Him most - when Dad slipt away. I should have raised his head & moistened his lips and watched for the change of expression from pain to joy - and instead I was selfishly holding my throbbing head & crying. Where was all my composure and self control? May He forgive. I acted as tho He had no power to keep at such times. There were things I sh’d have liked to say to Dad - last things - but that might have been hard for him and I know now he understands & I will, when I get there. but that lack of witness gets me down. and my only desire is that I have learned a lesson I’ll never forget - to let the peace & quietness of Jesus possess me.

We expect to leave on Tues. and a wk. later be at home if all goes well. The readjustment must come. even tho it will be hard. Many are praying and my lot is much better than many who have no children to be with. Rays may be there. see Nov. 22.

Mon. Dec. 11

Packed and did last things. Barnetts came ab’t 3. we all had tea at Ruths. Edith Devitt called. Mrs. P. goes to Nairobi tomorrow. Helped finish Mrs. P’s dress. Wrote Mrs. Hoyt. Got letter from Miss Noweck. Says Jock wants Claudon! All were fine.

Tues. Dec. 12 Ravine.

Mrs. Propst left before I did. Mr. Innis called. Kens came & we finally were off 9:15. Got to Nakuru ab’t 12:15. Stopt at Kijabe station for gas. Did shopping & had lunch & more looking around & got here by 4:15. Mrs B’s girls got supper ab’t 5:30. Gl. not feeling well at all. so she & I went to bed early & Cl sleeps over with Paul.

Wed. Dec. 13

Gl. has not been feeling well - so staid lying down most all A.M. I baked rhubarb pie & mixed some with apricot jam. left a glass for Mrs. B. Paul & Cl at car all day. I finished copying directions for rompers. Finishing reading “Joy Bells” by Bertha Moore. Doesn’t seem so cold as 5 wks. ago. How little we dreamed then we’d be back and so empty.

Thur. Dec. 14 Litein

Got away from Ravine ab’t 9:15 & reached Kericho before 12. Mrs. Innis was looking for us. had tea & then Mrs. Sam Anderson came for lunch at 1. Miss Boldt came to table & also to tea at 4. She is able to get around very well. Got here ab’t 6. Earl gone to meet girls at Lumbwa. coming from school. Mrs. A has given me her room & she & girls are in guest house.

Fri. Dec. 15

O joy! First thing this morn Lucile came & said Ken had a wire saying Rays are at Stanleyville. They will likely come to Oicha by C.V.C. tomorrow. I wish we were there right now, but we sent a wire saying we’d be there Wed. next. I have such conflicting feelings - loneliness without Dad & yet such joy to think Rays will be there. Praise God for all his goodness.

Sat. Dec. 16

Left Litein ab’t 9:15. Stopt in Kisumu. Found Dr & Mrs Bond at Mrs. Kellers. Lovely dinner. Skodas had tea. got here ab’t 5:15. It’s nice to be here. We cut Mrs. Teasdales fruit cake for supper. & sang Happy Birthday. [Claudon’s birthday] Course have been rehearsing 5 wks. ago. Hoyts are so sympathetic. just like home folks. We suppose Rays are at Oicha tonight.

Sun. Dec. 17

One of those lovely June like days. Gl. & I used spare time getting ab’t 20 Xmas cards off - to be posted at Kampala. Have thot much ab’t 5 wks ago. Had lovely roast turkey, fresh peaches & cream. Cl. led eve mtg. Wrote Mrs. Propst. some one poisoned Kellums watch dog.

Mon. Dec. 18 Kampala.

Got away ab’t 9:15. When we stopt for lunch before Uganda border. We had a broken spring & Cl. changed it. 1 hr 10 min. and still got to K. by 6. Phoned Mrs Horne but she had guests so we went to CMS Hostel. Mr. & Mrs. Hummersheimer keep the place now & he works. We were so glad to stay. We had gotten a few things in Jinja but don’t need them except for baby. How it reminds us of 2 yrs. ago. & how happy we were.

Tues. Dec. 19 Mbarara.

Got down town in good time & did some shopping & got away by 11:30. Had lunch at pretty valley & tea at Masaka & got here by 6. It is still light at 7 really. their clocks are so fast. Wonder if Kens come in tonight. We have same round huts we had the other time 2 mo. ago. Cl. sleeps in ours & I with Gl. What will we know in 24 hrs?

Wed. Dec. 20

Arrived home by 4:15. No Rays, no Uhlingers. And our house O so empty. I’ve had a good cry so hope I can keep straight. Lots of mail. Emils replied to cable. & said Rays wrote they were “leaving by plane for Africa”. Guess Cl. will go over to Oicha on Sat. They might come then. Do hope so as it will be very lonely for Xmas if they don’t. Bad head. Ladies fixed up lovely supper. All ate at Gls. I also sleep there.

Thur. Dec. 21

Busy all day unpacking, reading letters, washed hair. Men called Cl. to shoot elephants. He got a new gun in Nairobi & ammunition. Perhaps I’ll go to Oicha too. Want to get several letters and cards off. Hoped there would be some calendars but none so far. Picked over plums & washed & will make sauce tomorrow. Also those for Oicha. All are very ripe.

Fri Dec. 22

No doubt Ruth & Tom are married but we have had our excitement too - for ab’t 3 Kasali came saying Rays family are at his school. Cl. had part out of car & couldn’t get it to work - so walked out intending to see if Ingles couldn’t bring ‘em - but met them & so all walked in. it’s lovely to have them here & the Lord is good. The children have grown so. & Mary Anne is a dear.

Sat. Dec. 23

Baked pies yesterday so have been doing various & sundry things - mostly talking. Betty sleeps in my bed & I in Dads. There are so many times I want to say things to him. Boys went to Mutwangas & brot suit cases from the duka. Washing some clothes. Bot a pig for the help.

Sun. Dec. 24

Communion - lots of outschool folks here. Almost 1000 in S.S. All went to service. This eve Ray told of the wonderful way the Lord led. Acts 12:1-17. how He broke down or opened a way thro the “iron gates” of difficulty. It was so interesting I was wishing Dad could have heard it - but I suppose he knows - at least all that is necessary for his happiness.

Mon. Dec. 25

All had breakfast at Miss Frosts. Dad’s first Christmas in glory. children were very good ab’t not touching things til all came. There were many gifts again. Rays brot book Haydn Symphony No. 101, “The Clock”. for Dad. and how he would have enjoyed it. We played it & others this eve. Had roast chickens & mince pie. etc.

Tues. Dec. 26

The natives are having sports today and all help went except one or 2 for dinner. Tried to get some letters ready. Gl. made a stencil & ran off 44. She will give me some too. Boys want to leave tomorrow for out school to help with building - get meat mostly.

Wed. Dec. 27

The boys left ab’t 1:30 and Kens came at 4. They sleep at Gl’s & all eat here. They say the wedding went off fine. Ruth Barnett’s. K’s brot letters from several. Got several written. Baked bread. led pr. mtg. A few men working. Cl’s went with them. Kens very tired. left home Xmas morning.

Thur. Dec. 28

It isn’t cold this yr. [arrow drawn to previous yr. “it’s cold these days”] No rain & the sun is hot. I hope the things grow that we brot from Kenya. Sent boys fresh bread - cheese, etc. Have not shot any thing. Staid at de Wildes for supper last night. Letters, etc ready for man to take to Oicha. hope they will come on Mon. for the day.

Fri. Dec. 29

Baked bread & buns and Gl. baked a 3 layer cake for Cl. & a small one for Mary Anne. Ken played the book of Haydn records Ray. brot. 7 short wks. ago Dad would have enjoyed it too. Am trying to help Sara finish Rays sweater. Gl. almost finished Cl’s.

Sat. Dec. 30

HOT Baked mince pies of Ivy’s m. meat. after Gl had iced the big cake & the little one. de W’s came ab’t 4 but no boys - a man came bringing a letter from Cl. saying they were at Nyambuka’s & were staying over the wk end. Course we are some what disappointed. Had good mutton stew.

Sun. Dec. 31

Such thousands have been swept into eternity this year. and so many homes are sad. ours is only so when we think of ourselves but we know with Dad it is all joy. He has had 7 wks. of it. All services as usual. Gl. is not feeling so well so went to bed instead of coming to service - (To back)

[from back] Dec. 31, 1944. Another year is drawing to a close 10 P.M. The saddest I’ve known and yet perhaps also the one that has held the greatest joy too. Knowing Dad is free from suffering and weakness and enjoying Jesus & heaven wont let one be sad for long. And how many many happy times we have had together. We enjoyed baby Billy together for 4 mos. Then we had word that Raymonds were coming soon but not how soon before he left us. I’m enjoying the thot that he knows they have come. How good God is to get them here for Xmas and has given us such nice times all wk. The day Ray. Cl. & little John left for out school Kens came and we have been a happy congenial crowd. We hope the boys will be back tomorrow.

My mind is full of memories - mostly very happy ones - of all the 38 ½ yrs. we lived together. Not many have such a privilege & I was looking forward to our 40^th anniversary and maybe we will celebrate it together in glory. I’d be very glad. But I want only to serve the Lord as He wills. I am so well and enjoy being busy - may it always be “busy” in His work.

Mrs. Propst still writes she’d like me with her. Bless her. And Rays say come live with them. That too would be fine - but I feel I can still carry on here. if that seems best. Just to be in His will. How I praise Him for His love & peace. And may I glorify Him more during 1945 than ever before.

                                                                                                                                   Index