Florence Minch Stauffacher Diary – 1921.                                                                                Index


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

Paid on 2nd mule

Florence M. Stauffacher,

Monroe, Wisconsin.

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Hatboro, Pennsylvania

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       Kijabe, B.E. Africa

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       Narok, Masai Reserve
       B.E. Africa

[Poem, on clipping]

A NEW LEAF.

He came to my desk with a quivering lip,

The lesson was done -

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

I have spoiled this one.”

In place of the leaf so stained and blotted,

I gave him a new one, all unspotted,

And into his sad eyes smiled -

Do better now, my child.”

I went to the throne with a quivering soul,

The old year was gone -

Dear Father, hast Thou a new leaf for me?

I have spoiled this one.”

He took the old leaf, stained and blotted,

And gave me a new one, all unspotted,

And into my sad heart smiled -

Do better now, my child.”

[Additional poem, on clipping]

THE GLORY OF PRESSURE.

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

Pressed out of measure and pressed to all length;

Pressed so intensely it seems beyond strength;

Pressed in the body and pressed in the soul,

Pressed in the mind till the dark surges roll.

Pressure by foes, and pressure from friends,

Pressure on pressure, till life nearly ends.

Pressed into knowing no helper but God;

Pressed into loving the staff and the rod;

Pressed into liberty where nothing clings;

Pressed into faith for impossible things.

Pressed into living a life in the Lord,

Pressed into living a Christ-life outpoured.

Sat. Jan. 1

R. & I also Claudon are beginning with Genesis. Hope to go thro this year. Phil. 3, 13-14 for this year. -Gabbotts went to Kijb. hill for the day. My Jan. 1 page [5 years on each date/page of diary] is full. How wonderfully God has worked thro these years. Praise Him.

Sun. Jan. 2

Albert B's 44th birthday. Muthongo finished here today. Ndanieri comes tomorrow. Mugo helpt today yet. Jno had to play at native service. I went too. 4 confessed Christ.

Mon. Jan. 3

Mr. Barnett went to Nairobi again to see ab't part of motor cycle. Came up rather late. Ndanieri came. New table boy. Paying up today. Nice to have school going again. Much more regularity. Mrs Kendall & Bobby here to tea.

Tues. Jan. 4

Mr. B's children left this noon. Mrs. B. went to Davises tonight. Parcels came. Annotated Bible. Papers too. Mrs Davis here to tea. Did some typing. Prayermtg at 6:30 P.M. Week of prayer.

Wed. Jan. 5

Arranged tables so Gabbotts sit at small table & the two little Pauls with them. John & I stay at long table. Bot a rabbit today. I staid with children tonight. Helpt teach this A.M.

Thur. Jan. 6

Killed & cleaned 2 chickens & the rabbit for tomorrow. Worked in kitchen all A.M. John ceiled Erics room. Mrs Propst led evening prayers. Subject for Moslems & heathen. Finished home letter. Received a letter from Mrs Simpson that I don't just know how to ans.

Fri. Jan. 7

Nothing unusual. Baked bread. Planning picnic for tomorrow to bamboo forest. Miss Cable led prayer service. Topic “Families, Educational Institutions & youth”. Rabbit & chicken were very good.

Sat. Jan. 8

Got started by 9:30. Rained a wee bit. but none got wet. Ate under big tree. Got lots of walking sticks. Down by 4:15. Found Miss McKinstry & Cable waiting for us. Had supper & to prayerm'tg so not much time to visit. Jno sent telegram to Palmer but no reply.

Sun. Jan. 9

Jno led P.M. meeting. Lovely day. Clear all day. Mrs Myers & Mr Propst went to station to sleep so Jno went too. His tooth is very touchy so thinks he better have it looked at & perhaps treated. Hope he'll get back tomorrow night.

Mon. Jan. 10

Jno got back. Didn't bring all I ordered but most. Tooth was filled & only cost Rs 10. Feel very fortunate. Want to get candy made this week for Miss Walker of Y.W.C.A. Very windy. I help with teaching. 4 classes.

Tues. Jan. 11

Jno working at ceilings again. Meeting at 4 P.M. Mrs Gabbatt went. Arranged for pictures tomorrow & are talking of picnic Sat. in valley of hot spring.

Wed. Jan. 12

Miss Cable came right after noon & took pictures also Mrs Davis. Miss Cable staid for evening prayerm't'g. Mrs G. & I talked rather late. God does answer prayer.

Thur. Jan. 13

Jno went for usual morning quiet & got pretty far down the road then went on to the valley. Lovely he says. Grand A.M. Little rain this P.M. Mr. Gabbott went to P.M. meeting.

Fri. Jan. 14

Planning on all going to picnic tomorrow but Grace who is to study. Made candy this eve for Miss Walker at Y.W.C.A. Nairobi. Got parcel yesterday containing wrist watch. Lovely. Xmas gift from Co & Allens.

Sat. Jan. 15

Lovely day. Started by 8:15 to the hot springs valley. Had a fine time. Men & big boys looked for cave but didn't find it. Davises here to supper. Good talk afterward. Mrs Gabbott has headache again.

Sun. Jan. 16

Had lovely walk & talk this morning. This P.M. Mr & Mrs Rainbow came. Didn't want to go to service so went for a walk with them. Staid to supper. They are leaving G. Williams. Not sure where they'll go. Want us to take Billy during vacation.

Mon. Jan. 17

Baked nice bread today. Rained a little. Some folks got home mail. Ours will come tomorrow I suppose. Jno wants to trade mules with Dr Davis. He (J.) doesn't like Rosie May.

Tues. Jan. 18

Nothing much in mail except announcement from L. Home Journal that Lora sends it another year. Mrs Davis had word that Miss Silvius has lost her mind. Very sad. P.M. prayermt'g.

Wed. Jan. 19

Jno & Mr G. got up early & went to G. Rest house. Back by noon. I staid with children tonight & Gabbotts went to meeting. Jno & I had walk after supper. Kariuki making much trouble ab't wanting to go to Syabei. We'd rather he wouldn't because he wont stay. He's notional.

Thur. Jan. 20

Letter from Miss Kolachny hoping for a Conf. in Feb. Letter from Mrs Knapp to say coffee is ready so sent one of the workmen at least he'll go tomorrow.

Fri. Jan. 21 Prayer Day.

Pretty good meeting this A.M. Jno left at noon. Only a few this P.M. Mrs Barnett staid afterward & washed Paul. Then staid to supper. Every body bathing. Lonely tonight without Jno.

Sat. Jan. 22

Turned kitchen boys off tonight. Had potato salad outside. Mr. Gabbott not feeling very well. Had small prayer gathering tonight In interest of Lumbwa Conf. How I'd like to talk to Jno tonight.

Sun. Jan. 23

Thinking & praying much for Lumbwa. Lovely quiet restful day. Went for early walk with children. At 10:30 Mrs. G. & I went over to Hurlburts garden got flowers. at 2 read awhile to children & after supper another walk. Wrote Miss Slater & Mrs Leffert.

Mon. Jan. 24

Up early. School & all as usual. Tests are begun in some classes. Mrs. Barnett called this P.M. Staid to supper & all went to prayerm't'g. Looking up test problems.

Tues. Jan. 25

Started Arith. test today. Last night alone, I hope. Baked bread & cookies and pudding. I had very bad sick headache today. Very sick stomach. Staid with children tonight.

Wed. Jan. 26

Jno, Mr. Innis, Mr. Andersen came at noon. Johnston, Rhoad, Kolachny & Henderson came this eve. Very busy day. Head much better but still touchy. Very nice time at Lumbwa. Mr. Innis stays at Woodleys.

Thur. Jan. 27

Council m'tg all day & til midnight. Miss C. came & together we looked thro “Course of Study”. Still having some tests in School. Will close tomorrow noon. Raymond got 100 in spelling. Very hard test too.

Fri. Jan. 28

Such unrest & excitement. Wagon came & loaded. Got most all off but blankets. Most guests left on “down” this morning. Board meeting this evening. School opens Mar. 1. Mrs. Rhoad is on school board. Jolly's went home this P.M. Barnetts suppered at Brysons.

Sat. Jan. 29

Got away in fairly good time. Got a little at the Indians & put into wagon. Mules in rather bad shape. Baileys tied animals onto them & Ned ran away & broke things pretty badly & Rosy was out all night. Ropes lost & pads gone. Got out beyond the black reef & camped. Miss McKinstry sleeps in the bath part.

Sun. Jan. 30

Came on to Q- by 9. Oxen will come in tomorrow. Found a Mr. & Mrs. Clarke here waiting for motor car which returned to Nairobi on Thurs for repairs. Very hot 'til about 2 P.M. then it rained. Read some & slept. Early to bed. Very dark & rainy over the hills.

Mon. Jan. 31

Lots of disturbance last night. Lion chasing zebra. Oxen came about 10:30. Ate at foot of hill abt 3:30. On to camp at nettle bed by 9. Some rain just as we arrived but put up the tent & got in. More rain after we got into the tent. We're sure to get home tomorrow. Shall be so glad. The mules have been a real help. Jno hasn't ridden much as Ned seems rather lame.

Tues. Feb. 1

Got in a little after 2 P.M. Mr. Herdman didn't hear us & we blew whistles & shouted just outside the door. Wagon didn't come. Very heavy rain ab't 3 P.M. Mr. Clarke asked us all to supper. Very nice time. Miss McK & I bunk together. Jno & boys upstairs.

Wed. Feb. 2

Wagon came about 8. Staid most of the day. Got Miss McK- fixed up in her house. She likes it there. We're slowly getting unpacked. Mr. Clarke called this eve.

Thur. Feb. 3

Mr. C. went on safari. Jno got some nails from him. Wanjeri baked nice bread. Several been here for medicine. Sore eyes & colds. Not much rain today.

Fri. Feb. 4

Wanjeri & Kahara washed big washing. I cleared letter box & mended a little. Took long walk to Enochs house. Nanjiru is very angry about her garden. We told
Enoch to take part- as she does nothing. Want to begin meetings Sun.

Sat. Feb. 5

Boys ironed. We went up stream for dinner. Lovely day. Rested late. Went to garden with Jno til Supper time. Intend starting meetings tomorrow night. Wrote at Aunt Annas letter. Bathed & retiring early.

Sun. Feb. 6

General P.M. meeting. sang some & had the children in. Rained pretty hard this P.M. so can't have meeting tonight. Miss McK. talked to the Kikuyu & I to Masai women & children.

Mon. Feb. 7

Horrid head ache all day. Didn't have boys wash. Men almost closed the west end of house. More rain. Men went to get a pole but got caught by the rain. John writing letters this eve.

Tues. Feb. 8

Boys washed. Miss McK. & I still at mending. Men finished siding & got two poles for upstairs floor. Mulungit came back. Olduboi & Ndilai went to Kjb. today. Postponing meetings.

Wed. Feb. 9

Laid part of upstairs floor today. Slow work. Narrow boards. Boys ironed. Mended & fixed at boys clothes. Only Nairobi paper came today. Also meat. No rain. Mulungit & John talking late.

Thur. Feb. 10

Mulungit wants to leave. He is disgruntled because folks talk about his running around. I'm sorry. I hope he wont regret it. Children brot two eggs.

Fri. Feb. 11

Baked cookies & pie crusts. Hoping to go fishing tomorrow. Mr. Clarke came in today. Came to supper. Rained today.

Sat. Feb. 12

Lemon pie this noon. Didn't go fishing but it would have been lovely day for it. No rain but cloudy. Washed & put in dining room windows. & one door. Herdman at Clarkes for dinner.

Sun. Feb. 13

Very hard rain today. Herdman at Clarkes for lunch. Wont go fishing tomorrow but if it doesn't rain will go Tues. Mulungit spoke at S.S. Meeting in Tagi's house tonight.

Mon. Feb. 14

Did rain some. but are planning to go fishing. Boys washed. Mail came. Letter & cheque from Aba. Asked for big cheque & got pretty large. RVA bill came too so can pay it at once.

Tues. Feb. 15

Got fair start. Had a lovely time & very nice weather except that we hurried home to avoid rain. Got a sprinkle. 45 fish. Mostly small. Herdman went to Clarke's for lunch. We saw little python.

Wed. Feb. 16

Made path to garden. Kahara went to boma for me. Letters from Johnston. Meat & butter came. Men worked hard at stones. Very sultry. Stormed hard to the west of us. Started sewing. Must get childrens clothes ready.

Thur. Feb. 17

Sewed at khaki. Jno worked a little at laying up stone. Then was too tired & just laid around all day. Clarke came for banana trees & then Jno went to lunch. Prayermt'g. Rained some.

Fri. Feb. 18

Sewed at & finished second comfort for boys bed. While having prayermt'g this P.M. it hailed very hard. Men finished dining room wall.

Sat. Feb. 19

Baked nut cake – etc. meat loaf too. This P.M. Mr Rainbow & Billy came. Stopt to tea & supper. John worked in garden til tea time. R's staid pretty late. I was foolish & am sorry.

Sun. Feb. 20

All took long walk this A.M. Meeting with children at the kraal. Also 4 P.M. & 7 P.M. otherwise a quiet day. Custard pie for dinner. Lovely clear day. Very warm. Wrote Mr Jabbott to send loads to Quarantine.

Mon. Feb. 21

R. made lemon pie – good. Boys washed. Kairu went to Boma. Tea under big tree in the garden. Clarke came too. Baked buns & had some hot & nut cake. Made potato salad for tomorrow. Letter from Mr Woodley. Herdman to Clarkes.

Tues. Feb. 22

Went to Boma for the day. All enjoyed it much. Jno slept poorly last night so was tired. All are tired tonight. R's send wagon tomorrow & Billy. C & R making jelly tonight for tomorrow.

Wed. Feb. 23

Billy didn't come til 8. Claudon somewhat tearful. Finished sewing & packed box this eve. With Billy here going is fairly jolly. Feel rather sad myself tonight. 'Twill be so lonely. Tagi's father pretty ill.

Thur. Feb. 24

They got off in pretty good time. C. forgot to kiss me goodby. He & Billy on R's mule. Miss McK. on hers & R. on the wagon. Not many tears shed. I put chocolates into their box if they didn't cry. But O it is lonely here today. Mr. C. came up for A.M. coffee. I sewed at his curtains. Finished this P.M.

Fri. Feb. 25

Just at noon Tagi came up & said his father had died. Wanted box to bury him. J- rather thot would make trouble but the old men said he was a big man & they bury such. This occurrence makes me more lonely than ever. Mended today. Wrote to the boys.

Sat. Feb. 26

Baked. I certainly supposed this house would be nearer finished than it is but we have had so many interruptions. Clarke came up for supper. Rhubarb pie.

Sun. Feb. 27

J & I took walk up thro woods beyond Soibis. Very hot again. Little rain this P.M. Meetings as usual today. Wrote the children & Mrs Gabbott.

Mon. Feb. 28

School began. Fair attendance. Soibi helps with the teaching til Enoch returns. He's at Rotian. Wanjeri washed. Typed quite a bit tonight. Want to begin work with children next week.

Tues. Mar. 1

Wanjeri ironed. He's not very well. Paid him & Kairu & Nanjiru. Helpt Nanjiru with pair of pants for Milaun. Tagi & Olgoai rode mules to Massagondis again today. Wrote the boys tonight. John tarred the roof today of veranda. Hope to get library floor in tomorrow. Garden work too is getting on nicely. I have one thing yet I want to work in somewhere and that is at least a half hour of language study. Then too I want some time for teaching advanced boys. Soibi, Tagi, Enoch. Tomorrow will fill out yearly blank & send home. Then I can't be accused of not sending report.

Wed. Mar. 2

So windy. School as usual. We are treating Nzobia's ears every day. Also for itch. Olduboi came from Kjb brot school work from Mrs Woodly. Mr Clarke called & staid to supper.

Thur. Mar. 3

Men put part floor & shelves in library. Think they'll finish up tomorrow. 'Twill be very nice when all done. So nice to have books altogether. Prayermtg tonight. Still more in school.

Fri. Mar. 4

Almost finished up library. Gave Tagi's old man letter to Mr Rainbow to pull his tooth. Bush buck came across the hill about 10 A.M. We called at Mr Clarke's this eve.

Sat. Mar. 5

Staked out school building. Little sprinkle. Mr. Clarke here to supper. Jno finished library & we cleaned it up & veranda. Very nice now & plenty of room for books. But I have a heavy heart tonight. Hasty words. How far I am from being what He wants me to be.

Sun. Mar. 6

Cloudy some. Little sprinkle. Walked up in the woods. Looking for poles. S.S. & all as usual. This eve told 'em we wanted to start Catecumen class & build school house. All seemed agreed it was good. Feel better tonight. Have had a real searching time today. I know He forgives.

Mon. Mar. 7

Started kindergarten. Men went to the woods & cut poles. Took tea along. Back for chapel. Clarke's man bro't letters. One from the children. Mr Herdman at Clarke's for supper. Wanjeri washed. Just at dark Mrs Rainbow came.

Tues. Mar. 8

Mrs. R. staid til after lunch. Enjoyed her visit. I missed most of school. Men cutting again. Boys hauled a few down. Mr. Clarke ate here & asked us down there tomorrow night.

Wed. Mar. 9

Wanjeri ironed today. Kairu to Boma. Set two posts of new school building. Nice dinner at Clarkes. Had to come back early because of meeting. Letter from Mr. Rasmussen.

Thurs. Mar.10

Men cut more poles. Also quite a number of slabs for window frames. Mr Herdman went to Mr Clarkes for supper. We had creamed toast. Meeting tonight. All prayer & song.

Fri. Mar. 11

Early supper. Mr Clarke came while we were eating. Had hoped to go up to Enochs. Sat out by school building then lit bon fire. Have one plate up of new roof. Worked at fitting poles. Cutting more in woods this P.M.

Sat. Mar. 12

Foreign mail. Nice lot of letters. Mr Clarke left for safari. Ate lunch here. Boys all worked well at school. Plates & cross pieces all up. No meeting toninght. Making out Ward order.

Sun. Mar. 13

Took walk up into woods saw where we can get poles for roof. Meeting tonight. Beginning to ask for those who want to join catecumens class. About 8 said they want the words of God. Thank God for that number.

Mon. Mar. 14

Men went up to cut poles. Came back for 11:30 meeting. Didn't have work with children. Helpt with Arith. So hot again. No sign of rain. Yeast is OK.

Tues. Mar. 15

Baked bread today & ironed. Carried poles at recess. Nanjiru & I brot one down. Men cut again. More gave names for class work.

Wed. Mar. 16

Kairu went to Boma. Mail. & a note from Mrs Rainbow asking to use our mule to go to Kijabe next week. More poles down today. Men finished cutting.

Thur. Mar. 17

No poles this morning so I said unless they brot some tomorrow I'd not call school. Men setting pillars & getting upper plates on. Letter from Congo but no check.

Fri. Mar. 18

Not many out tonight. Mostly just those who want class work. 11 in all. Jerimani nor Nanjiru have said they will join up. May God help them not to procrastinate.

Sat. Mar. 19

Had a bum night. Baked. Men got upper plate up. Jno & I planted cabbages & tomatoes. Just finishing when Mr Judd & Jack came. Had tea & also supper here. Still no rain. Made yeast cakes.

Sun. Mar. 20 Rain!!!

Very hot this A.M. About 3 begun to rain & soon came in torrents & lots of wind from South. Good for our cabbage & tomato we set out yesterday. Looked over Mr Clarkes garden. Didn't wash much. Meeting tonight.

Mon. Mar. 21

Very threatening all day. Only a shower this eve. Sowed small seeds this P.M. Men put 2nd plate up. Wanjeri washed. Most is dry. Jerimani has been mistreating cattle that came into his garden. Seems he makes much trouble & Jno has asked him either to pay for damage or go.

Tues. Mar. 22

Little shower. Jno didn't let Jerimani come to school this morning. Wants him to settle things up at once. Rather severe but perhaps alright. First lesson in Catecumen class. Many others out. 2 rafters up.

Wed. Mar. 23

Some mail. Men put all rafters up. Nailed together on ground & then put up. Went fast. Wrote the children. Letter from Mrs Davis telling of Sydney Gabbotts death. Fell into pail of boiling water & lived only 20 hrs. So sad. Davises want to come over here for rest.

Thurs. Mar. 24

Mr. Herdman saw bushbuck but didn't get it. Jno nailed rafters. Mrs R. came this eve but I have very bad head so are going to bed early. Men went to prayerm'tg.

Fri. Mar. 25

Mrs R. got pretty good start on Rosie & left her mule. but when nearly at Ndulele she picked up a magazine to look at it & Rosie got fright & jerked loose & came home Mrs R. following. Staying tonight & will try again tomorrow. Mr Clarke was tossed by buffalo. Pretty badly hurt. is at Boma.

Sat. Mar. 26

Mrs. R got off abt 7:15. Got special lot of eggs today. Going to have plenty tomorrow. Expected Clarke in today but boys say can't be moved yet so men may go in tomorrow. Planted potatoes beans & corn in new garden. Letters from Lora. Got to Shenchow Jan. 28.

Sun. Mar. 27 Easter.

Jno & Mr H. went to Narok & saw Mr. Clarke. I met them on path & had lunch. Mr C. seems cheerful & expects to get home soon. Dr is expected tonight. Jno ate 6 soft boiled eggs for breakfast Mr H. 4 & I two. Meeting tonight.

Mon. Mar. 28

Mr. H. sent for mail. Letter from boys & others. Maringu's mother made lots of trouble again this morning wanting to leave with cattle & sheep. Wanjeri washed. Writing letters tonight. Threatened but no rain. Mr H thot he heard the car pass last night.

Tues. Mar. 29

The Dr took Mr. Clarke went to Nairobi hospital. Passed ab't 9 A.M. Washed my hair this eve. Had catecumen class. Another joined. Wanjeri ironed. Talked on steps.

Wed. Mar. 30

Little mail. Meat & butter. Mr R. says mill is most ready. Mr Randall passing asked for medicine for stomach. Could send only milk. Plastering goes fine. Makes his arm very lame. Still no rain.

Thur. Mar. 31

Kairu is plastering. I helpt some. Looks pretty fine. Hope we can get the women to help on Sat. Got 4 letters ready to send. Using type written duplicates.

Memoranda. [on wrong page] I thot sure I'd watch my dates this mo. I'm very sure by end of next mo. we will be living in here. 'Twill be very nice. Jno has taken a bad cold. sore throat. Some natives have it too. Hope it wont be serious.

Fri. Apr. 1

Fifth week finished. How the time does fly. Jno finished his part of filling in with clay. library & veranda today. Asked women to come tomorrow. Jno & I to Clarkes to straighten door for boy but couldn't do it tonight too late.

Sat. Apr. 2

Genuine steady rain this eve. & the women did come 6 from the kraal. did up the walls fine & in a hurry. Kairu had to carry more dirt. Must be rubbed over again but worst is done. Served tea for them & Kibaba of mealie meal. Men hauling stones. Olduboi caught bush buck in trap.

Sun. Apr. 3

Some rain. Jno rather miserable. We took long walk up hill on road & around & back thro garden. Several others ab't sick with colds. Meetings as usual. Well do I remember 3 yrs. ago. [Arr. back at Kijabe after long delay due to war.]

Mon. Apr. 4

Very cloudy but sunny this P.M. so wash all dried. Very windy. Men hauled stone. I helpt Wanjiku fix up dresses this P.M. Jno in garden. Cold still pretty bad. Letter form the boys. Suggest Conf may be in May. Sorry if it is.

Tues. Apr. 5

Class tonight. Men finished laying upstairs wall in kitchen. Set out rose ger. & yellow chrys. in garden. Mulungits brother Parkeya & his wife came today. Brot letter from Mulungit. Wrote Mrs. Barnett.

Wed. Apr. 6

Quite nice mail. Mr. Macintosh turned up too & stays the night. Is on his way to Mombasa to meet his lady. Wanjeri has word to come to Kjb so goes tomorrow. Have asked Olgoai to do kitchen work.

Thur. Apr. 7

School as usual. Keeps me humping now that I can't depend on Wanjeri. Olgoai does fairly well. Men finishing up the stone work of fireplace chimney. Got yeast agoing. Prayerm't'g full house.

Fri. Apr. 8

Very windy. Fire in grate tonight. Looked for Mrs Rainbow til dark then decided she wouldn't come but she did ab't 7. Had come thro from Kjb in 12 hrs. Met Mr. Macintosh on the Kidong plain. Sort of hard day all around. Miss Wanjeri.

Sat. Apr. 9

Little sprinkle. Mrs R. left about 9:30. Got baking done before noon. Jno worked in garden most all day. Planted beans & peas & seeds of mango etc trees. Parcels from mama are at Narok. Will get them when we go Wed.

Sun. Apr. 10

Took walk around the bend. While eating lunch two men turned up on way to Kilima Feza. Asked if this was Clarke's place. & staid to lunch. Olobukuaiyok fell & burned both feet. Dressed them today.

Mon. Apr. 11

Oldubois have girl No. 3. Olgoai, Kairu & I did washing. Boys got some Arith. work done. I ironed this P.M. & baked cake to take to R's on Wed. Jno hung doors & fixed stair steps into dining room. Naigwena was in school til recess.

Tues. Apr. 12

Still no proper rain. Leopard got a dog at the kraal also caught Simba, Clarkes dog, but only wounded him. Revised papers with Mr H's help, to make Chas our attorney. Get them signed tomorrow.

Wed. Apr. 13

Went to Boma finished at Magistrates office & got 2 parcels from P.O. At Rainbows I opened them. Lovely aluminum things and a tin of walnut meats from Cora Beth. Yum. their good. All pretty tired tonight. Sera seems so ill. Fear dysentery.

Thur. Apr. 14

My next 5 yr diary came in parcel yesterday. Glad to have it ready for next year. Jno feeling bum tonight went to bed. Put off prayermtg til tomorrow night. Sera seems a bit better.

Fri. Apr. 15

Jno still weak & lying down all day. Soibi spoke at prayerm't'g. Sera a bit better. Discovered from prayer letter the Conf opens May 24. Mr. H. says he's not going unless he has money to go home & can sell his stuff.

Sat. Apr. 16

Cleaned out dining room. Some home mail. Letter from Cora Beth to say the nut meat parcel is my birthday gift. They are very good & fresh. Shall bake a cake & use some. Letter & pictures from Al.

Sun. Apr. 17

Nice quiet day. Everything as usual. Had long walk. cloudy & comfy. Keeps acting as tho it wanted to rain but can't quite make it.

Mon. Apr. 18

Boys & I did washing. Didn't get done very early but got to school for reading. Washed J's sweater & am turning it wrong-side-out. Jno made double cupboard. Looks very nice.

Tues. Apr. 19

Baked cake in new stove. Bakes fine. Working at cleaning windows & doors & cupboards. Finished the mantle. Looks very nice. Floor was so dirty it is hard to get it really clean.

Wed. Apr. 20

And now I'm 40. Made icing for nut cake. Made icing for nut cake. After dinner men brot things over & we “set up” in the new house. Not nearly in order yet but so glad to be here. Got rooster from Soibi & had nice dinner this eve. Mrs. R. sent fig jam. So cozy this eve both writing letters til bed time.

Thur.* Apr. 21

Rained last night. Hope we'll get more. Plate rail & pictures & curtains & all look so nice & homey. Heard R's are coming on Sun. Macintoshes may be along too about then. Conf. opens May 24 & we'll need to leave 21st.

Fri. Apr. 22

Rescreened & put up meat safe. (Cleaned & fixed up toilet.) Kindergarteners so pleased with the chains they make. Headache tonight.

Sat. Apr. 23

Men took down big hump in garden. Headache all night. Singular for me. Some mail. Baked bread. Got pretty good. Such a treat to have a nice oven. Things in shape for tomorrow.

Sun. Apr. 24

R's didn't come til 12:30. Had great lion story to tell. Tried to get into their cattle boma. Mr R. watched all night. Got a shot but missed & only took off some whiskers. Pleasant time. They both walked.

Mon. Apr. 25

Washed. Macintoshes got here at dark. She seems very sensible & nice. Sleep up stairs. Mail tonight. Kamau brot it. Boys letter. Talked til late.

Tues. Apr. 26

Macintoshes got off by 10. Then I went to school. Men worked at taking stones up stairs. Jno & I planted potatoes & set out strawberries also popcorn etc. Wrote letters.

Wed. Apr. 27

Headache. Kamau brot notice from Narok that all Kikuyu here must have passes. & I think none have any. Tagi & Soibi came to see about Mrs Oldubois people coming here to live. He's witchdoctor so we ruled 'em out. Made chart No. 7.

Thur. Apr. 28

School as usual. Prayer mt'g tonight. Jno working at stone wall up stairs. Still headache. Makes my stomach refuse food. Sort of miserable all over. Tried to do printing for school but not much ambition.

Fri. Apr. 29

While eating supper Mrs Rainbow came on way to Nairobi for dynamite. Will take my mule. Helpt women with sewing. Talked on front veranda.

Sat. Apr. 30

Jno most finished upstairs wall. This P.M. transplanted trees from upper garden. lemon, quince- apple & pear yesterday. Mrs. R. got fair start this morning. Takes two blankets on mule & lunch & goes. Thats one way.

No rains this season yet. It blows some days & then its cloudy a few days but no rain. People say its coming tho. others say not. Our people that don't have irrigation will be disappointed in crops.

Sun.-Fri. May 1-6

Was rather slack these days with writing up in here so that when I cut my hand on Sat. May 7- I hadn't written here & now that my hand is well enough to write I don't remember what took place. Mostly just the usual things tho I suppose. The men finished upstairs stone work & then plastered all with clay. Hauled the clay from the stream down near the road. John usually hauled a load or two after rest time and also some before breakfast. One day he hauled a lot up & the next morning found it wasn't very good all gravely so hunted for some at lower end of our garden. Found some good so had to clear a way to bring out as the hill was pretty steep there. Set brush on fire & because of strong wind burned more than he intended should burn but got a place clear for a road out. Mixing the good clay with the poor it worked alright & the upstairs walls & our room all got plastered roughly.

Sat.-Sun. May 7-8

Cut hand. While trying to open a debe the cutter slipt & I cut the 2nd joint on second finger & also a cut on each of the smaller fingers. Tagi tied it up as he happened to be here. Seemed to be healing alright so I put nothing onto it. Did most of work as usual.

Mon. May 9

This day helpt with washing & got fingers & cuts pretty well soaked but still thot all was well for all cuts heal very quickly for me. So paid little attention to them.

Tues. May 10

Today finger was rather swelled & somewhat painful. Seems to be a bit of infection. Cut on joint is thus: The cords were bare but do not think injured any.

Wed. May 11

Mr Kline & another man called & later staid for supper. Finger pained awfully & I felt ill all over. They advised iodine. I soaked it in iodine & wrapped it up but couldn't sleep. Terribly painful

Thur. May 12

all night. I did not trouble it for I thot it was the iodine hurting it. But next morning unwrapped it & puss boiled out so washed it out a bit & wrapped it somewhat. Mrs Rainbow

Fri.-Sat. May 13-14 Some rain [awkwardly written with left hand]

came that P.M. & said soak & put poultice of bread on. Slept a bit the next (Fri.) night. But seemed to need still more opening. A note from Mrs R. said to soak in hot salt water for an hour & I did which eased it greatly. Kept some poultice on but it kept getting

Sun. May 15 (Took a walk by ourselves)

better. Not much pain & seemed to be healing nicely. so took the most wrappings off & just put

Mon. May 16 hard story

a wee bit of cotton on & bichloride cold. It seemed to chill it & it began to hurt & troubled much

Tues.-Wed. May 17-18 [left hand] Closed in stairway

all P.M. & eve. Ate no supper but walked all around the yard. Some mail but I couldn't read it. Jno read most aloud but couldn't sit still enough to listen.

[left hand] Rained all night past night & all A.M. Jno stopt leaks in roof & got up corn.

Very little sleep. Mrs Rainbow sent linseed & after soaking & soaking

Thur.-Fri. May 19-20

for about 4 hrs. I put on hot linseed poultices. Got up & reheated so got a few snatches of sleep but didn't undress just put on my robe. Jno didn't sleep much either these nights as I was too restless. John had many duties bread to cut food to serve. My food to cut so I could eat with left hand.

Sat. May 21

It is very awkward to get on without ones right hand. Got off for Conf. on this date. Olgoai helpt bake up cookies & bread for the path.

Sun. May 22

Went from top of Mau to Quarantine. Our porters came. Didn't quite know whether to take tent or not but we did. Haven't rebandaged my hand all these safari days. It got

Mon. May 23

rather stiff & painful. Boys met us at foot of hill with bread & jam & we made tea. They looked well & seemed as glad to see us as we they. Woodley determined we should go

Tues. May 24

into guest house but children wanted the tent & so we put it up. First session of Conf. this eve. Wanted testimonies or prayers. turned almost entirely to prayer. Mr Bryson chairman lead.

Wed. May 25

Sessions very good but Council has meetings every P.M. However there is much prayer being offered & the Spirit is working. Biggest crowd ever. Such a lot of children. We are glad to be in tent.

Thur. May 26

Mr. Keeling came this far on way to coast but is very ill & weak. Sessions very helpful. Council mtg's going off better than ever before. Last Oct. Conf. accomplished more

Fri. May 27

than we knew. Even yet we don't know all. Miss Kolachnys case is hardest to deal with. God knows His best for her and we do pray no mistake will be made. So far best talks were John, Guilding & Canon Burns.

Sat. May 28

Business session all A.M. & pictures & Council in P.M. Had hoped to get a nice family stroll up the hill but Jno was too busy. so went with Gabbotts for walk & talk. Great things are being done these days. More unity than ever before.

Sun. May 29

Mr. Johnston gave such a good talk this P.M. He certainly sees things differently than he ever did before. We do praise God for His wonderful working among us. More love & still more is our prayer. Then there will be power- etc etc.

Mon. May 30

Broke up camp & got off. Men stopt to see Mr Aggett so it was 11 A.M. before we left the stream. Lunched at the sand drift. Took turns riding. Quarantine by 5. Every one so hungry.

Tues. May 31

Got to Ndulele in pretty good time. Johns feet rather sore. Children took mules to water. Sent Drs mule back this morning. We've ridden some all along so none are terribly tired. My hand is still bandaged but is improving. Am writing this later – after bandage is off. Get home tomorrow.

Wed. June 1

Home again. Mr. Clarke had us stop for tea when we got here at 10 & then had lunch there too. 'Twas very kind of him. Wagon got in ab't 2 & went on. Billy went on even before lunch. Linnell pretty tired. Kitty looking for us but her kittens are both gone- boys say to the woods.

Thur. June 2

Baked the birthday day. Didn't get it quite so nicely iced as mine was. Can't cook enough food for every one. Such appetites! Bot a fat sheep from Kabura for Rs 10. Clarke takes half.

Fri. June 3 [John's 43rd birthday]

Mr. Clarke came in good time. Brot a dish of brussels sprouts. Had roast mutton potatoes, beans – mint sauce. Dried apple & cherry pie. Men worked hard at water ditch for irrigating hillside garden. Mr. H. accidentally hit Jno with hoe which, but for his helmet, might have been fatal. Linnel hit C. with stone cut cheek. Cake very good.

Sat. June 4

Left bandage off today. Men worked hard at irrigating ditch & now have water running into garden. Every one tired tonight. R. ironed & cleaned bedroom floor. Mulungit has come. Mr. H. at Clarke's for supper. Mutton soup here.

Sun. June 5

Letters for Lo & Co yesterday. Lo has 5 yr. diary too & is at last yr. S.S. as usual. Nice walk. Jno went down to see Mr. C. & staid for lunch & we all went for tea under the trees but Mr. H. didn't stay. Good turn out at evening service. Saw Mulungit.

Mon. June 6

Fishing but no luck. Jno didn't get one. Children caught 20 little ones. Mr C. had said we should stop for supper but he's ill so sent supper up here. Letter from Aba & big check. Water in garden broke away so Jno red'ng part of ditch before breakfast. Jno spending eve with Mr. C.

Tues. June 7

Washed pretty big wash. Still have safari clothes to do. Men worked at ditch & John hoed weeds. Rats are taking corn. Raymond mends at shoes.

Wed. June 8

Ironing today. R. rather slow with it. My how we enjoyed the fat sheep. It has been hard to keep enuf cooked & baked. all have such appetites.

Thurs. June 9

Men worked at old house some. Finishing walls. Mr Herdman has moved back where he was at first – store house.

Fri. June 10

Fixed up old house for guests. Jno finished putting up sticks & putting in mud & this P.M. we cleaned & put wash stand in which Claudon made. Put carpet down & it looks rather cosy.

Sat. June 11

Dr Davises & Mr Pema rolled up here just as we finished dinner. Got them something to eat. Clarke came for tea. All sat & talked. Davises are settled in the guest house. Quite comfy now that walls are done. Mr Pema sleeps in library.

Sun. June 12

Mr Pema left ab't 10. Had S.S. Got dinner. This P.M. had singing & sort of regular meeting. John read from Hudson Taylors life Vol II. Hope we can read it thro. Evening service at kraal.

Mon. June 13

Washed huge washing. Raymond is such a help. John working in garden. Threatened rain. Trying to get some mending & sewing done. but mostly cook. We all eat so heartily.

Tues. June 14

Very hot. Rain. Laid corner stones of school house. Getting roof all covered with sticks for grass. Killed the ox. Raymond did most the ironing. Mrs. Davis had her wash done. Baked.

Wed. June 15

All went to Rainbows except Dr. & Phil. Rained early this morning but had a pleasant day. Took meat over for in brine & for them to use. Got things at Indians. Everybody tired & to bed early.

Thur. June 16

Baked 7 loaves of bread for safari or camp. Got Clarkes donkey pads. Olgoai, Maringu, Lolpojus, Murangi and Kako all going. Didn't really decide we were going til this eve. Now are moving spry.

Fri. June 17

Seems to be our day for donkey safari. [referring to being on donkey safari this date previous year] Donkeys loaded & off by 10. Arrived at Narok river 3:30. Pitched camp. Lovely spot & good fishing. Plenty guinea fowl. Drs. tent with fly. Children in back part. We in little tent. Donkeys & mules in thorn kraal. Dr. shot g.f. near camp.

Sat. June 18

Mules went home. Sprinkled a bit last night. Jno & I spent from 9 to 1 finding junction of Ngiro & Narok. Disappointed in surroundings so wont move camp. Dr. cleaning Mr C's rifle lodged cleaner & tore string. Worked at it this P.M. but made little headway. Glad for beef we brot for Dr. has had no more luck with guinea.

Sun. June 19

Quiet all day. Read quite a bit mostly in Taylors book. Tried dislodging the rag but haven't succeeded yet. Very cold last night. Guinea fowl all around today. Seem to know it's Sunday. Have big fires every night so no animals come near. Milk from a nearby kraal.

Mon. June 20

Lolpojus went home for flour etc. How we eat! Mrs D & I worked at gun all A.M. Dr. & J went toward Ngiro plains. Found lots of game & lovely place to hunt. Ab't 3 P.M. while Jno was reading Mrs D was working at gun with crochet hook & got the whole wad out. So glad for men can go for hunt tomorrow.

Tues. June 21

Dr got a partridge early. After break. he, Jno & R. went to the plain got a lovely wildebeaste. Meat pretty tough but skin & horns are nice. Also got a bustard. Returned ab't 3 P.M. Getting nice lot of reading done, as we read evenings. I'm almost finished knitting J's sock. Kraal moved but our herd are here for salt & we get the milk.

Wed. June 22

Sent Murangi to Rainbows for butter & sour milk. She also sent eggs. Men went to the north today & got two lovely Tommies. Rose slipt halter & this eve they just struck out down the road even tho they were tied together. Maringu after them. Finished knitting.

Thur. June 23

Jno & I walked out on the road toward home trying to find a shorter way thro. Think we'll try tomorrow. Saw impala & could have had a lovely shot. Found a big cattle path all the way. Home by noon. Tommy chops are fine. Reading. Finished tatting.

Fri. June 24

Got started from camp by 8. Got here by 1:30. Stopt over an hour & had lunch. Found every thing alright. Down to Clarkes for supper. John has ab't decided he better go over to Ngong. Some hustling to do these next days.

Sat. June 25

Baked all sorts for company tomorrow. Cleaned & tried to get some sewing done. Found Mrs Davises Kariuki here so he is washing for her today. Herdman has about decided to go too.

Sun. June 26

R's came while I was at S.S. We had a long walk after breakfast so I was a little late. Ate dinner ab't 1:30. They rode our mules home. McIntoshes couldn't come as he has sore foot.

Mon. June 27

Washed & ironed & baked bread. Jno working at donkey pads etc. Clarke asked Jno & Herdman down for supper. We finished reading Taylor when Jno got back which was very late & I'm ashamed to say I lost patience & scolded.

Tues. June 28

They got off about 8:30. Billy on Ned- Claudon on Rose & Linnel on his mule. Lolpojus & Macaria driving five donkeys. Very quiet & lonely all day. Ate at Clarke's tonight. Suppose they are on the Mau some place.

Wed. June 29

Soibi went to Masagondis to work his garden & back & Tagi staid here & teaches. School opened today. Good attendance. Set gun trap. Got two hyenas already tonight. Mr. Clarke here to supper.

Thur. June 30

School again. Prayerm't'g this eve. Dr. went too. Set trap again. baited with a dog. Didn't seem to accomplish much today. My thots are constantly with the safari people.

We have had a nice time all month. Wanjeri not here & kept me pretty busy but R. helpt well. Wonder if they're at Kijabe tonight & where John is. I pray he may be a real blessing to those boys.

Fri. July 1

Didn't get a thing last night. Tried to get some copying etc done but Wanja came with dress to do. Wrote Jno & boys. Soita came this eve. Saw them at Quarantine & John was sick. Clarke left in hurry for Nairobi.

Sat. July 2        FMS letter

Baked all A.M. Boys washed both floors. Letters from China & roll of papers & type paper too from Lora. Nanjiru says Jno got dizzy spells. & if not better when he reached Kijabe would not go to Ngong. I do hope he isn't really ill. Saved iris & gladiolus seed also carrots & radish & lettuce in garden.

Sun. July 3

Everything as usual. Gave cards to those who knew Jno 1:12. Outdoor meeting tonight. Soibi preached. Finished Hetzes letter. Enclosed pictures.

Mon. July 4

Had a brush bonfire tonight to celebrate. Philip enjoyed it. Boys washed at the stream as the tank water is very low. Threatens rain sprinkles a little & thats all. Wrote at home letter. Check from Congo. $30 from Cora.

Tues. July 5

I ironed before school. Mrs D finished for me. Wrote Jno, children & Mr Pema also Mrs Gabbott. Class tonight. Tagi has quite a bit translated – of new catechism. Dr. works at stumps.

Wed. July 6

A note from Herdman is all that came, & he didn't say anything of Jno's state of health. Woodleys may come. Keeling died at Mombasa. Tagi fixed dam so more water goes into garden. Expect Mr Rainbow tomorrow. Mr Mount went with Jno to Ngong.

Thur. July 7

One never knows what a day may bring forth. Mr. Rainbow came for late lunch & about 3 P.M. we heard a motor cycle & here Mr. & Mrs. Bryson rolled up. How we've been talking ever since. John may not start back til Fri. a week from tomorrow. Woodleys are coming. Set the gun trap. “Coaly” is bait.

Fri. July 8

Heavy clouds all day & a little sprinkle this eve. Plenty of talking all day. Had the phono this eve. I wonder if Jno wont be back by next week this time. I do hope so. Mrs Davis baked rolls & bread of new flour. Lovely & light.

Sat. July 9

Kako returned. Baking & cleaning. Dr. & Mr. B. walked up to the plain to see if they could see any mpala & came back by 10 with a lovely buck. Liver for dinner. Mr B's foot rather painful tonight Hurt it some days ago. More phono tonight. Mr B. engineered it. Gave Olgoai ride in motor around hill.

Sun. July 10

Services as usual. Folks walked up to plain toward Massagondis to see kraal but 'twas empty. Big crowd out tonight. Mr B. spoke in Kikuyu. Mr. Clarke returned & came up to lunch. Walked back to river this P.M.

Mon.* July 11

Dr. Davises 43 birthday. Quite a shower this eve. Brysons got off by 9 A.M. Hope they arrived all OK. Mr Clarke here for supper in honor of the birthday. No mail.

Tues. July 12

About 3 P.M. Mr. Rainbow came from Kjb. Saw John & brot letters from Raymond & Mrs Gabbott. Jno says coming Fri next. Well, if they get here F. 'twill mean only 2 nights after tonight. Class tonight. No reading today & prayer together.

Wed. July 13

Everything as usual again. Down to Clarkes for dinner tonight. Nice social time. Mr. Rainbow went to see him last eve & staid the night. Exchanged ends up stairs- moving bed above the dining room. No mail again today. Can't understand. Dismissed Olgoai.

Thur. July 14

Getting things ready for the folks. I do hope they come tomorrow night. Upstairs looks pretty nice. Making curtains & fixing boxes for chairs. Dr. staked some meat out & wants to watch for hyenas etc. by moonlight. Good prayerm't'g. Mr C. called.

Fri. July 15

No John yet, but think they must be in tomorrow. Dr. shot 4 times & got one hyena. The mpala horns were left out & were taken by hyenas. Baked bread & pudding & cookies. Mrs Davis did most. Dr. D. ate at Clarkes tonight. He (C) bot a sheep & will give us half.

Sat. July 16

Yes they did come but not so early as we thot. We walked up on the plain expecting to meet them but tho we waited til noon they didn't come. Twas 5 PM when they did come. Mules went lame etc etc all sorts of trouble. But we are glad they are here. Woodleys too came. So we are quite a crowd.

Sun. July 17

Very lazy day. Had m'tgs as usual. & walked over the place to see things. Davises will go back in the buckboard. Rather sudden & I'm not happy about it, nor they for they really wanted another week or two. But so it goes. Big mtg tonight over 50 out. Nice fire & good talk by Jno.

Mon. July 18

Raymond beginning his teens. Wish I could see him for a little while. But I can pray God bless him. Davises left after dinner. We were asked to Clarkes for supper. He had a note that Davises got to Ndulele all OK. Kariuki started to work here – just til he gets his garden taken care of.

Tues. July 19

We went down river fishing. Caught 39 altogether. Mr Woodley did very well & enjoyed it. Rode mules & took both boys. Mrs D.'s Kariuki stays til Woodleys return. Class tonight. Ndegwa wants work tomorrow. Both workmen go to school & get Rs 7 per mo. Kariuki Irongu began today.

Wed. July 20

Before breakfast a note came from Mr. Judd, at Clarkes, asking for bread as he had come with Mr Babcock & Mrs Murphy Americans & Clarke wasn't there. Asked 'em up to break & made cakes for 'em. Very Am. in speech & actions. Mr. Rainbow came for late supper.

Thur. July 21

Mr R. here to break. and lunch. Finally got off ab't 2 P.M. Men hauling at stones for chapel wall. After supper saw Mr Aggett stop at Mr. Clarkes so went down & he came up to supper. Mr Woodley & Mr. Herdman went to prayermt'g. I don't feel happy about missing m't'g to entertain.

Fri. July 22

Took my share of school work. Mr. Herdman is printing charts for some fellows at Narok. Roasted lot of coffee. Hope it will last awhile. Drink a lot these days. Laid foundation wall along one side. Took picture of Mr Woodley with wheelbarrow full of children, wrote Mr. Hurlburt.

Sat. July 23

Baked & cleaned. Made cheese pie & sweet potato. Jno & Mr. W. used Mr. C's bath house. Quite a big mail came. Merle's wedding announcement. Also word that Mother S. had operation for cancer. Doing well. Writing letters tonight.

Sun. July 24

Meetings as usual. Very late breakfast. Mrs. W. & I walked up into woods & back before breakfast. P.M. meeting & outside evening service.

Mon. July 25

Kariuki washed. Kariuki Irongu the workman helpt. Talking about going fishing. Sent Olduboi to Boma & gave him Dr D's trousers for the trip. Very pleased with them. Quite a bit of mail. Letter from boys. They want bed covers...

Tues. July 26

Mr. W. rode to Narok to send telegram. Also to see about rig to go home but got none. Mulungit went too & then went to Ndulele on way home. Sent Geo. some candy & cookies.

Wed. July 27

Jno & Mr. W. went fishing early. Went to the cave. Ndegwa was to go but didn't get off. Came back with 19 big 42 little fish. Very tired. To bed early. Mrs. W. is making some pretties for on the boys bed covers I'm making of pugaree.

Thur. July 28

School & prayerm't'g as usual. Everything seems so dead. We'd like to have a series of meetings. Soibi finishes at Masagondis this week then Tagi goes.

Fri. July 29

School as usual. Men worked hard at stones. Mrs. W. & I sewed at boys coverlets. I made chart this eve. Mr. R. came for lunch & supper. Mr H expects to go to Sotik with him next week.

Sat. July 30

Baked. Men went up river, but didn't seem to accomplish much. Baked date cookies. Very good. Jno & Mr. W. Bathed at Clarkes “shower”. Two letters from Lora. Mr Aggetts buckboard past but we persuaded Mr W. to stay.

Sun. July 31

Jno gave talk at PM meeting because Mr. W. requested. S.S. & other services as usual. Cloudy & rainy & cold all day. Nice walk right after dinner.

Have never had such struggles as during the past week. How weak and sinful I am has come to me afresh today & how great His love to me. He has given me joy today just in that thot. His love sees so much further than we do or can.

Mon. Aug. 1

Rainy all day. Didn't wash. Gashisha begun work here. Mr. Herdman didn't go with Mr. Rainbow. “Too wet” he said. Letter from boys & mail & cheque from Congo. Boys went to Boma to register.

Tues. Aug. 2

Mr Herdman left for Rainbows this morning. tho it was still rainy. Rained hard this P.M. Tank is about 1/3 full. Class tonight. Planning to go to Boma (Mrs W & I). The men fishing if it is pleasant in morning. Got most of wash dry.

Wed. Aug. 3

Sunny this P.M. but cloudy & sprinkling this A.M. so no one went any place. All but Jno have headaches. Mine was really sick headache. Gave up dinner & ate no supper. Every one to bed early. Tagi here tonight so we have saddle & may go to Boma tomorrow.

Thur. Aug. 4

Very pleasant day. Men went fishing. Mrs. W. & I went to Rainbows. Had a pleasant time. Men didn't catch much. Letter from Hoyts says they'll be along next week. Prayermtg.

Fri. Aug. 5

Lion killed a cow for Soibi. Herding them up on the plain. Man from Masagondis brot donkey for us to buy. Haven't closed the deal yet. No buckboard yet tho a man camping near says it is at Wieki tonight.

Sat. Aug. 6

When Jno & Mr. W. returned from bathing at Clarkes they announced the buckboard was there. We want them to wait 'til Mon. morning. They want to go to Ndulele tomorrow & we shall go along that far. Hardly think that wise. Mr & Mrs W. read aloud after supper & I finished boys bed covers. Very pretty.

Sun. Aug. 7

W's left about 2 P.M. Jno & I went to rocky stream then returned. Found Mr Babcock, Mrs Murphy, Mr Judd at Clarkes. Mr. J. & Mrs. M. called abt 4 & had tea. All will come for breakfast of hot cakes. J. would like 'em to go after lion but Mr. B. doesn't seem interested.

Mon. Aug. 8

Had a nice talk last night before going to sleep. Seems at least an annual event [refering to “blessed talk” they had Aug. 9 previous year] tho we've had others between. The campers came for break. & tea. Had a long talk this A.M. on our different “beliefs”. They wont take the Bible as God's Word so it was rather hard to make them understand. We had intended to work on road. May tomorrow.

Tues. Aug. 9

Went out cutting new road as soon as Mr Judd, Mr Babcock & Mrs. Murphy left. Had a very enjoyable day. Herdman was here when we got back. Reports a very nice time all the week he was away. No hunters yet.

Wed. Aug. 10

While reading this PM we saw the car & motor bike come down hill. Mr Hoyt, Mr Keller & Dr. Bond arrived. They will probably stay here tomorrow. Trying to bake bread. Gashisha boiled the yeast.

Thur. Aug. 11

John & I are going along with the others for over Sun. Bread is baked but some is awful. They are partly panning to go home via Sotik & Kericho. 'Twill be fun going over the road in the Ford. Donkeys have gone on with extra loads. Very tired.

Fri. Aug. 12

Left home about 9:30. Stopt at Rainbows awhile & office. At Ngiro bridge took pictures. got to camp along road. We drove on but didn't find lion camp so staid at foot of hill. Shot two zebra & a tommy. Men will watch for lions tonight. Lovely riding in Ford. This camp is 24 mi from home.

Sat. Aug. 13

Moved to camp Ollosananguru or lion camp. Nothing doing last night but hyenas. Mr. Keller shot a jackal this morning. Two other hunters are at this camp but have no lions nor saw nor heard any. Men had long walk this P.M. brot home a guinea fowl & partridge.

Sun. Aug. 14

Mr. Andersen came into camp abt 9:30 from Narosero. Had past yesterday & missed us. Today all went to hot springs to see about lion there. Took lunch. Called it SS picnic but don't usually shoot two Grants & a Tommy at a S.S. picnic. Men bathed in stream.

Mon. Aug. 15

Pulled camp & went beyond Narosero. Sent Kariuki home for mules & petrol. We should have gone home but J's feet are sore from Sat. & they don't offer to take us. This is a pretty place too. Are hoping to get buffalo here, perhaps rhino. Got some crocheting done.

Tues. Aug. 16

Mr Hoyt, Andersen & Dr Bond went up hill to look abt buffalo. Mr Keller Jno & I went down toward the next valley. Mr Keller shot a fowl so I returned. They went on. Mr H. Dr B. came back early. Mr H bad headache. John & Mr K. say heaps of rhino tracks. Mr A. stirred up a buffalo.

Wed. Aug. 17

Not awfully decided what to do but think we'll pull up camp & go back. Mr. A. doesn't want to. He saw rhino & couldn't get a shot. Mr H & Dr B. took long walk again but found nothing. Mr K. shot Tommys. Jno & I had a lovely walk in the river valley & huge trees etc. This P.M. all working at A's motor cycle which he broke. Saw some eland this eve but men all gone.

Thur. Aug. 18

Home again. Came ab't 45 miles today got here by 1:40. Stopt at Ollosananguru & found Kariuki but no mules. Mr Hoyt brot us on. Met mules this side of Ngiro but Mr Hoyt came on as we heard Mr. Clarke was in. C. here to supper. Abt persuaded Mr Hoyt not to go to Mara River- but to Mariju- up in hills of Longonot. Baking bread. Yeast is fine.

Fri. Aug. 19

Bread & buns all baked by 11. also cookies. Mr. C. here to dinner & Mr H. left about 1:30. We are very tired & sleepy- from the wind I suppose. So nice to get in so quickly. Guess we'll begin praying for a Ford. The crowd may be back this way. To Clarkes for supper. Gashisha washed a little.

Sat. Aug. 20

Baked for us. Made pie too. Mr. C. called just at noon to show us a picture he had enlarged. Staid to lunch. Washed my hair. Jno went to Clarke's for bath & staid til most supper time. Sleepy still & headache all day.

Sun. Aug. 21

S.S. as usual. preceded by walk. Both of us sleep so much. Still have headache. Just at noon Mr. Sutherland, the teacher at the Boma came to ask ab't cheapest way to feed boys. He was very interested. Mr. C. also called & staid to lunch. At C's for supper.

Mon. Aug. 22

Kariuki went to Ngiro with tin of gas. Kjb. men brot it in on Sat, & went back to Kjb. this morning. Refused to take Herdmans box. Mr. C. came just at supper time with some very pretty enlarged pictures- 1 of Jno at the Sandu River. Started a letter home. Clarke here to supper.

Tues. Aug. 23

Kariuki came back. Letter from Johnston we should use $60 in any way so guess we'll get iron for roof of school house. Mr. C. called for tea. John framed pictures. Down to C's- for supper. Back for class. Discussed Johnston's letter ab't Conf. when to have ours.

Wed. Aug. 24

Boys washed a big wash today. All dry & part is ironed. This is the first day since before we left for Conference in May that we have had the entire day by ourselves. Over 3 months. Letter from Lo.

Thur. Aug. 25

Ironed most all A.M. Mr. Clarke had sent for mushroom spore & it came today so asked us down to see where to put it. Had to hurry supper because of prayerm't'g.

Fri. Aug. 26

Made 2 qts & half of tomato catsup. Sent two little gray kittens down to Mr. C. He came to lunch & supper. Antoni came & I showed him how to make junket.

Sat. Aug. 27

Early this morn. Jno & I hiked for the road. All went well & we made good progress til Jno got some milk weed juice into his eye. Suffered terribly for an hour or more. All thro nicely now into the first valley. Supper at Clarkes.

Sun. Aug. 28

Everything as usual. Mr. Clarke here to late supper. Read & rested all day & walked. Five weeks from today children should be on way home. Out door m't'g. Kjb men return tomorrow.

Mon. Aug. 29

Boys washed. Cleaned stove thoroly. Mr Clarke left early for Nakuru via the Mau. Had a cup of coffee here.

Tues. Aug. 30

Baked fine. Ironed. Men set the front door frame of chapel. Walls are going up slowly. Have asked Mr Leasure to see about getting iron for roof.

Wed. Aug. 31

No letter from the boys. Don't understand. One from Miss Slater. Seems to think something I said to Mr Hurlburt makes him refuse to let her work in R.V.A. Wrote her.

We are so enjoying two expositions. One Jno reads every P.M. on Galatians by Findley & one I read at night on Phil. by Rainie. both so good & helpful.

Thur. Sept. 1

And today Warren is 31. John has the fire place about finished. Good prayerm't'g tonight. Made 3 ½ qts catchup. Shall keep it til the boys come home.

Fri. Sept. 2

Boys letter came today. Jno is busy binding “Our Hope”. Tagi returned with 5 of his pupils who are spending the week end here. Writing at home letter. Baked some pies. Expect to go on road tomorrow. Jno not feeling very well.

Sat. Sept. 3

Jno & I left in good time for the road. Went thro to the far end & worked back. Found we can connect up fine with the big cattle path. Mr. H. had shot 2 guinea fowl. Butter from Kjb via Mrs Rainbow. Fruit trees were to come but man didn't bring 'em too big he said.

Sun. Sept. 4

While eating lunch a man came up the steps. on way to Kjb from beyond Sotik. Had lunch with us & talked afterward. Didn't get his name, but he slept in the old house once when we were away.

Mon. Sept. 5

Boys washed. Mr Bond A.D.C. camps here & came to tea & supper. Tagi returned with his 5 boys. Gave each a pencil & home made tablet of print shop leavings. Jno not feeling very well.

Tues. Sept. 6

Had a horrible night. Didn't sleep before 2 A.M. Jno coughed & restless. Word from Johnston Council meets Sept. 28. Hope Mr. McK can bring her over & take Jno back with him. Wrote letters after class.

Wed. Sept. 7

Parcel from Whiteaways. Killed fat sheep last night. Bot from Gashisha for Rs 15. Got almost 15 lbs of fat from it. So nice to have all tins full again. Mr Hayes-Saddler A.D.C. camped here & had tea & supper. Kariuki gone to Ngiro to get petrol & packages for Hoyt. No one called for 'em.

Thur. Sept. 8

Kariuki returned with petrol & parcels. Finished home letters. Mrs Rainbow sent word trees were there so we will get them tomorrow. Very nice rain this eve. No prayermtg.

Fri. Sept. 9

Planted the 30 trees & 8 vines from Rainbows & also 17 others: fig etc in the garden. Fixed up order for Mama to send to Wards. Among other things is a school bell – big one. Another rain tonight so good for the trees.

Sat. Sept. 10

Got early start out to the road & got it all opened up now til it meets the cattle road beyond the old boma road. Very good grade all the way. Foreign mail tonight too. John pretty tired. Finished insertion for one pillow.

Sun. Sept. 11

We were expecting Rainbows but about 10 A.M. Mr. Brerton, who past here last Sun., came on way back from Nairobi. All lunched. He left immediately after. Mr. R. cut back most every tree. Mr. B. says Mr Clarke is on the way.

Mon. Sept. 12 Becca G's birthday.

Washing done as usual. John begun lower or east wall at north end. Writing letters this eve. Sent mamas Sat. & one came so am replying at once as there are more things to order from Wards.

Tues. Sept. 13

Ironed. Nothing unusual except unusual temptations. Awful all day & I'm glad its night tho' I'd like to live the day over again. Mail tonight. Boys letters etc. John dug at draining ditch in garden.

Wed. Sept. 14

And now we've had a good many “Teas” there. [Referring to veranda which had just had the roof put on this date previous year.] Quite a big mail. Letter from Mr Norum their church wants to support us. Mr Herdman announced tonight that he's not going home. I hate to offer him his fare tho. Very trying these days. My heart is rebellious- I do want to love him in Jesus & he is so provoking.

Thur. Sept. 15

Antoni says Mr Clarke is to be in tomorrow. Jno not feeling at all well. Had a miserable night. Boiled & pressed 10 yds of kahki & cut out middy today. Men making window frames.

Fri. Sept. 16

Mr. Clarke came ab't 9:30 with buckboard & 4 mules. Had lunch with us. We went there to supper. John not at all well – trouble seems to be tape worm.

Sat. Sept. 17

We went out on road again. Walked straight to the “Tommy” plain & then back & ate & worked at taking out stones. I didn't try to write but crocheted a bit. Almost 2 hrs. to plain. Mr. C. to supper & brot J. some medicine.

Sun. Sept. 18

Mr Clarke's seis hitched up our mules yesterday & they went fine so today hitched them up again & went to Narok & back. Tomorrow goes to Ngiro. Wants to sell us the buckboard. And we want it.

Mon. Sept. 19

John feeling very bum. Mr C. went to Ngiro. Mr H. rode to Narok with him & walked back. John in bed most all day. Eyes are bad so I read to him.

Tues. Sept. 20

Ironed & prest Jno's suits. Helpt Jno set window frames. Makes it look much more like a chapel. 'Twill be very nice when finished. Class as usual tonight. Mended. Mr. C. returned brot us some Tommy meat.

Wed. Sept. 21

Mr. R. came in time for tea. All went to Clarkes for dinner this eve. Mr R. sleeps here tonight. He's getting poles for fixing dam. Mail brot notice of parcel for Mr H. & registered letter for me. Mr. H. sends for his tomorrow.

Thur. Sept. 22

Mr. R. to breakfast. He & Jno walked up Syabei to see about getting stream out & he says very easy. Came back to lunch & tea. Got onto the hill & the wheel of wagon broke. Camping there. Very warm. Mr Clarke came but supper was over. Brot enlarged picture of Jno & I taken on 15th anniversary by HP Herdman.

Fri. Sept. 23

Very warm & windy. More children past here today on way to Narok school. Only one more week of school here. Baked lots of ginger cookies & bum bread. Mr. C. here for supper. Printing pictures.

Sat. Sept. 24

Baked this A.M. P.M. Jno & I rode over to Rainbows in buckboard. Goes very nice. To Clarkes for supper. Letters from Kjb tell of Claudon having measles so I am going over too next week. McK's wont come before Council.

Sun. Sept. 25

Very windy & Hot. Mr. C. here to lunch. After lunch a bad headache came on better tonight but still here. Decided to all walk to Ndulele Tues. P.M. & then also Wed. morn til the Mau then all ride to Kjb.

Mon. Sept. 26

This A.M. Mr. C. sent word he was going over the Mau horseback & we have the buckboard. so we got ready quickly & left abt 4:30. The buckboard went before. Past Duc de Orleans camp at big stream. Sleep in buckboard.

Tues. Sept. 27

Left Ndulele ab't 5:30. Got to Quarantine by 8:30. To Kjb by 4. Roads awful between Quarantine & Kjb. Claudon up but can't come out of his room. Raymond has temp & sore throat. Dr not here so can't tell about getting back by Fri. Miss Slater looks well & happy.

Wed. Sept. 28

Can't get away on Fri. Billy has chickenpox- very slight. Raymond still miserable. Made drop cakes for Mrs. Woodley & served tea to Council people. They started meetings today as all are here but Mr Rhoad & he came this eve. Helping where I can.

Thur. Sept. 29

Baked cookies for Mrs Davis this A.M. Raymond is slowly breaking out with measles. He can't possibly go back with us & we wont go til Mon. McKenricks are here & will go with us. Several other children are sick with all sorts of troubles. Malaria included. Visited with Mrs Gabbott at hospital.

Fri. Sept. 30

Grandpa is 92 yrs. Sent Mr. R's man over to Quarantine to tell the men to stay until Mon. Raymond feels very ill today. Measles haven't come out very well. Down & up country people have left. We are all going in Indian transport wagon. Mr Clarke sent for the mules and buckboard so we don't have the help of the mules. The turkey here at R.V.A. was killed by wild cat this morning. Finished mama's letter. Wrote Brooklyn too. We are going to buy the buckboard from Mr. Clarke. Can't get iron now.

Sat. Oct. 1

It is decided that we don't have school again til after Xmas. Raymond feels so miserable so gave him another very hot bath. His face is very red. Allen Bryson is feeling worse too today. We'll leave R. behind & perhaps I'll stay with him.

Sun. Oct. 2

R. is properly broken out this morn, & feels some better. I staid with him during P.M. meeting. John went to see Mr. Clarke at station & gave him Rs. 200 on buckboard. Claudon has bathed & changed all around & is in another room.

Mon. Oct. 3

Left mission ab't 9. but didn't get away from the station til noon. Mrs McK & I in trap & Mr McK. went on motor cycle. We stopt under tree before reef & while waiting for ox wagon the mule ran away & thro the bush & damaged the cart. We went on ox wagon rest of way & sent trap back. Quarantine about 11.

Tues. Oct. 4

Off in fairly good time. Ate at foot of Mau. In camp (Ndulele) by 7:30. Put tents up. Women in one men in the other. Billy rode Moses all day. Claudon feels miserable. All very tired. Flora very sun burned.

Wed. Oct. 5

Jno & I left ab't 4:20. Got home about 8. Cleaned up & fixed up other house. Jno feeling miserable. Folks got here by 4 PM. Every body tired but after baths & supper ready for rest. McK's in the guest house & Claudon upstairs.

Thur. Oct. 6

Billy got on home yesterday. Wagon left this morning. Letter from mama tells of Grandpa Offerles death Aug. 12 – heart failure. Home at last & how happy he is now with all who are there before. Busy getting things straight. John begins his fast with salts.

Fri. Oct. 7

Boys washed. Wanjeri helping in kitchen now. I ironed what was washed before we went away. Every body resting & eating. Mr. McK worked at his machine. John's second day of fast.

Sat. Oct. 8

Jno took medicine early this morn. Later oil. & at 12 ate some dinner but got so sick he had to spit it all up again, but feels better tonight. Ate hearty supper.

Sun. Oct. 9

Heavy rain. Mr. Clarke came up in time for tea. Had just come in from safari. We had lunch at river. Got home just in time before hard rain. PM mtg. Clarke also staid to supper. Eve service at Tagis house.

Mon. Oct. 10

Washed up here. Tank full of water. McKs ironed. tomorrow they wash. Searching P.M. meeting. Took walk after supper. No hard rain today but clouds all day.

Tues. Oct. 11        FMS letter

Wanjeri ironed. Started letter to Aunt Annie. John writing letters. Also sowed some seed in garden on ridges irrigating ditches between. How well we remember a year ago. [difficult conference ending]

Wed. Oct. 12

Mr. McK. went to Boma on bike. Rained a bit. Letter from Miss Slater & R. Is drest now. Do hope he can come home next week. Typing a letter for John. Tried to buy an ox but they wanted too much. Katherine has chicken pox.

Thur. Oct. 13

Men went hunting. Got tommy & wildebeeste. Rainy night. Short cake for supper. mostly raspberries. Finished copying for John. Mended this P.M. Herdman at Mr Clarkes for lunch.

Fri. Oct. 14

Baked drop cakes. Wrote folks tonight. C & Mr. H. at Clarkes for supper so Jno & I had long evening for letter writing & got a number off. Sowed peas. Mr. C. here to tea.

Sat. Oct. 15

Baked & cleaned. Men went for mpala but got none. Mrs Rainbow came about 5. Will take Ned with her too & bring R. back. They'll probably come on Thurs. Talked late. Sleeps upstairs. C. in library.

Sun. Oct. 16 Mrs. Gabbotts birthday.

Mrs. R. got off about 8:30. Rest of the day was quiet. Mr. H. had Dr. Wallington who is at Mr. C's, pull a tooth & his face is badly swelled. Katherine is up today. Spots going away. Baby Flora is so cute.

Mon. Oct. 17

Down to Mr. C's for supper. We 4 married ones. He was up to lunch. Meat from Rainbows. Lolpojus went. Jno & Mr H cutting reeds in swamp for roof of school.

Tues. Oct. 18

Everyone writing letters tonight. Beth & I baked a cake today. Mr. C. left for safari.

Wed.* Oct. 19

Hope Mrs R & R. are at Quarantine tonight. No man thro with butter. Letter from C. J. Staf.- Made out school report. Very bum today.

Thur. Oct. 20

Mrs R. & R. got in about 2:30. R. is terribly burned & pretty tired but stood the trip fine. C. seems as tickled to have him back as I am. Supper late & talked. Her man brot eggs. Very kind of her.

Fri. Oct. 21

Got Mrs R. off by 8:30. John & boys working at school house roof. Mr H. went with Mrs. R. to bring butter. Returned by 1. Mr. McK & Jno going fishing tomorrow.

Sat. Oct. 22

Men & boys got off by 7:45. Had a nice time, brot 78 fish. Will have 'em for breakfast. Had meat pie for supper. Mr. H. not feeling well. Very moody. Lolpojus went to find Mr. McK's cartridge belt.

Sun. Oct. 23

Meetings as usual. Wanted communion but will wait til next Sun. & baptize the girls & perhaps our boys. Good P.M. meeting and also evening. 40 out & Jno seemed to have great freedom.

Mon. Oct. 24

Wanjeri washed big washing. R. brot 'em up & hung 'em up. Tagi butchered so sent Kariuki to Rainbows with meat. Very threatening this P.M.

Tues. Oct. 25

Preparing beans etc to take to R's tomorrow. Busy all day. Told Wanjeri to wait with ironing til tomorrow. Had a talk with children this morn about being baptized. They seem to want to.

Wed. Oct. 26

Rainy this morning but by the time we finished breakfast 'twas quite cleared. Had a pleasant visit at school & asked about Tagi helping there. Mr. Sutherland seems very favorable. Weighed at R's. I 119, John 202, Mrs McK. 155.

Thur. Oct. 27

Billy came home with us & we thot he'd stay & go fishing with us tomorrow but he wants to go home. They've played all day. We baked date cookies. Didn't get a bit of sewing done today.

Fri. Oct. 28

Baby Flora not very well tonight. Gashisha took Billy home. Sent word to Barnett that John would come right away. We went fishing. Caught 85. Mrs. McK. seemed to enjoy herself; also the girls. No one very tired tonight.

Sat. Oct. 29

Baked all A.M. Flora has chicken pox- & Indian wagon goes today so they can't take it & some other way must be found. John & I are sleeping up stairs & gave our room to Mrs. McK. & Flora so there can be fire made & she kept warm.

Sun. Oct. 30

Baptismal service at 9. Raymond, Beth & Katherine were baptised in little stream in Tagi's garden. Very impressive P.M. communion service. Native Christians here too. First baptised & first communion here.

Mon. Oct. 31

School began. 28 enrolled. Mr. McK. planning to return to Kjb tomorrow. Sent to office for mail but only a few letters – one from Miss Stumpf.

Tagi has gone to Boma to see about teaching in Gov't school. He has been faithful the whole year with his few boys & now he may have a chance at the 83 boys in Mr. Sutherlands school.

Tues. Nov. 1

Mr. McK. left early for Kjb. John goes to Rainbows tomorrow & leaves for Sotik with their wagon next day. Flora is much better. 16 yrs. ago today we left N.Y. for Africa the first time.

Wed. Nov. 2

Rained at noon. Mr. McK. got back by 10:30. Made it in 3 hrs. 55 min. of running. Pretty good, I say. John left about 3:15. Kariuki carrying his load. Later Lolpojus went but may be back. Mr Gabbott arrived about 4:30 in the cart. Made it in about 11 hrs. He is very tired.

Thurs. Nov. 3

This is the day John was to be at Sotik. Well, I hope he's well started. Mr Gabbott had lunch at Mr. Clarkes & spent all PM there as it started to rain about 3 & kept it up til after 5. Mr Clarke came to supper. brot roast mutton up.

Fri. Nov. 4

Basted & fitted khaki skirt. Printed pictures this eve. A week of school already finished. The other 12 will soon be past too. Sent to Mrs R. for the meat for the safari.

Sat. Nov. 5

Sent for mail & also to know if Mrs. R. wanted butter. but Olduboi lost the letter, so don't know what she wants. Baked lots – mostly for safari. Packed chop box- but didn't need much as they camp only one night.

Sun. Nov. 6

Most every one up by 4 or 4:30. They got off by 6. Mr. Gabbott & Mrs McK in cart. Girls on mules Mr. McK. on motor byke. Expect to camp at Quarantine. Mr Sutherland here to lunch. We all to Mr. Clarkes for tea. Soibi took meeting tonight.

Mon. Nov. 7

Mr. H. went to Narok took boys along. Wanjeri did big wash. Cleaned typewriter this PM & started letter home. Mr. Clarke brot up leg of mutton & ate supper with us. Boys very tired so had hot baths.

Tues. Nov. 8

Wanjeri ironed all day. Mr Clarke up for supper. cornbeef hash & eggs. Note from John at Mara River. They got there Sat. P.M. & found Mr. Andersen awaiting them. Were to get to Lumbwa Sun. morning. Hope rest of trip goes as fast. Trying to plan with Mr. Clarke about buckboard for getting Gabbotts.

Wed. Nov. 9

Had Catecumen class at 8 A.M. I believe that is better than at night. Finished “robin” letter this P.M. Big picture of Merle & husband as Xmas gift in mail. Papers too. Kariuki is plastering other house floor.

Thur. Nov. 10

Thot surely mules would be in today, but not yet. Prayermtg tonight. Finished more letters. We do wonder how far Jno is by this time. Mr. H. at Mr. Clarke's for supper.

Fri. Nov. 11 Armistice day.

Good shower today. Kariuki finished bedroom floor. Read quite a bit tonight. Mr. Clarke here for supper. Suppose there were celebrations at home.

Sat. Nov. 12

Baked. Mules & loads came. Gabbotts rather think they wont come now. I'm disappointed but they may reconsider. Letter from Jno. Hopes to get around in 2 weeks if all goes well.

Sun. Nov. 13

Quiet day. All had breakfast in bed. Boys & I had a walk. Mr. H talked at PM meeting. Mr. Clarke here to lunch. Mr H there to supper. Meeting this eve.

Mon.* Nov. 14

Everything as usual. Kariuki went to Rainbows. took corn. Check for 206+. Very thankful. Letter from Mr Johnston asking me to act on Com. to compile Arith.

Tues. Nov. 15

Duke de Orleans camped here last night. Asked Mr. C. up for supper but he was at Narok & didn't come up. Mr McCready finally got here & R's clothes came.

Wed. Nov. 16

Sent a lot of letters in time for mail. Not much mail. Asked Mr C. up for supper but he has gone to Narok & didn't return. Waited til 7 for him.

Thur. Nov. 17

Mr. Clarke returned. Col. Bell's camp here all day. He came ab't 5 & called here but dined with Mr. Clarke. Prayermtg tonight.

Fri. Nov. 18

Mr. Rainbow came ab't 10 staid to lunch & finally consented to ride Rose to Kjb. Mr. Clarke came up to supper. Col. Bell left about 9 this morning.

Sat. Nov. 19

Baked date cookies & plain cake. Steamed pudding. Mr. C. asked all down there to dinner tonight. Dr Wallington there. Very nice & sociable. No letter from John. Am disappointed.

Sun. Nov. 20

Tagi, Lekimani & Oimeru here. Returned to work this P.M. Lots of disturbance last night among the cats. Children very excited this morning. Cats all here. Meetings as usual. Rest & quiet between. Read quite a bit.

Mon. Nov. 21

Letter from John at Kapropita. Hoped to get home about the 25th. but never a word as to how. Mr. Clarke leaves tomorrow for Kjb. Sending letter by him. Wanjeri washed. Very hot & windy. Headache. Lot of bulbs from mama hyacinth, narcissus, tulip.

Tues. Nov. 22

Mr. C. came up to lunch. Boys cleared a nice big piece of the hill from weeds & stumps. Wanjeri ironed. I copied at catechism. Almost half. Raymond read & I mended. Getting thro the book “Two Years Before the Mast” - Dana -

Wed. Nov. 23

No further word from John. Boys worked fine at stumps. Finished our book tonight. It was very interesting. Wrote Miss Cable. Also started 3 layer to Miss Gosling.

Thurs. Nov. 24 Thanksgiving.

And a real one it is for while I was writing this morning about 9 A.M. Daddy came up the walk. Mr Blaikie had taken him to Quarantine yesterday & he walked to Ndulele & from there this morn. Is tired & blistered feet but can rest now. Boys finished edge of hill.

Fri. Nov. 25

John slept much. His heel very sore. Took a walk this P.M. & planned trips & picnics. Rainbow's wagons just back yesterday.

Sat. Nov. 26

Mr Rainbow stopt here for supper but wouldn't stay the night. Left about 9 for home. Ate lunch at spring & are clearing a place for bath house.

Sun. Nov. 27

Breakfast in bed. Walked back thro the woods. S.S. & 4 o'clock & 7 oclock m't'gs as usual. Supper down by the river.

Mon. Nov. 28

Wanjeri washed. Nice rain this P.M. Hard time getting water down for mud. Hauled stones. John sowed some seeds again. Billy came over to stay all night.

Tues. Nov. 29

Wanjeri ironed. Billy stays til tomorrow. Worked at stones at spring. Men at building this A.M. Going fine. Class tonight.

Wed. Nov. 30

Billy staid all day. Goes home tomorrow. & will send for mail too. John got partition wall up so high he has to use scaffolding. Worked at spring. Rather disastrous day so far as “spiritual growth” goes.

FB Myers exposition of Exodus is so very helpful but I do come so far from “delighting to sacrifice for the love of God”. I know God can fill my heart but I know He has not yet done so. Something hinders. May He show me what.

Thur. Dec. 1

Very hot. Mr. H. not feeling well tonight. Prayer meeting. Billy went home. Kariuki brot mail. Nothing much.

Fri. Dec. 2

Mr. H. in bed most all day. Touch of sun. Boys hauled stone as Jno dug 'em out. Not so hot today. Jno discovered this P.M. that he must take his tapeworm treatment again. So sorry.

Sat. Dec. 3

Did up work & at 11 went out on road Jno & I made & had lunch. 'Twasn't such awful fun because Jno didn't eat. Pretty nice mail tonight. Boys pens came. & promise of parcel from Mattie S.

Sun. Dec. 4

John feeling miserable. Didn't even want a walk. I read some stories. Let the natives take the service this eve. All sat on the veranda til late.

Mon. Dec. 5

Big mail again. Once more he has taken the medicine & we do hope it will clear all up this time. Mr. Clarke came in just after lunch. Got tea & asked him for supper but Mr. Aggett came so he had to get dinner for him. Wanjeri washed.

Tues. Dec. 6

Mr. H's 49th birthday. R & I baked chocolate & white marble cake. Pretty good. Mr. C. came up in time for A.M. tea & staid to lunch & then came again for supper. Put candles on the cake too. Postponed class til tomorrow night. Sat on veranda. Claudon not well.

Wed. Dec. 7

Claudon some better. Begun work on football ground for the ball came yesterday. Boys worked well & in two more days will have it cleared. Jno worked with 'em. I sewed a bit. Mr C. called. Had class.

Thurs. Dec. 8

Worked on grounds again all P.M. I sewed at khaki skirt. Mr C called again but we had to leave for prayerm't'g. Every body too busy to go for mail.

Fri. Dec. 9

So hot these days. Little ambition for work. Boys are doing fine at getting the ground clean. If they work all day tomorrow 'twill be pretty good.

Sat. Dec. 10

Mrs. Rainbow came in time for supper. Mr. C. here too. Boys played ball tho the ground wasn't all in shape but they had fun any way. Just 15 buttonholes to make on skirt.

Sun. Dec. 11

Got early break. for Mrs. R. & as she went down hill on Rose her knapsack strap broke & fell & frightened Rose who ran & threw Mrs. R. off. She must have been unconscious for 10 min. then managed to get onto the veranda. Felt badly all day so returned to Narok this eve. Picnic supper near road also Mr. C.

Mon. Dec. 12

Mr. Rainbow came about 9. Took Rose & when starting the rim tore & also knap sack fell again & she threw him before she got to the stream. Mr. R. got on her & went on to Quarantine. John wanted to get rid of her after yesterdays accident & now has bargained with Mr. Clarke to change for Ginger & we get buckboard & good harness & pay Rs 100. Have paid 167 before. I feel awful about it for she is worth 2 ordinary animals but John is afraid of her - so there's no way out.

Tues. Dec. 13

Rained Quite a shower yesterday P.M. but none today. An American hunter had lunch at Clarkes yesterday & Mr. C. asked J. too. Today he (Mr. C.) was here to lunch & left afterward for a hunt for koodoo & lion. Class tonight.

Wed. Dec. 14

Letters from Mrs. Zemmer & Mrs Kendall. Raymond's parcel from Chas. Lefferts with fish hooks & lines & an Eversharp pencil. Started this eve to fix up the road. Mules & wagon came up this morning. Not a very good harness tho. Billy came.

Thur. Dec. 15

Mr. R. didn't return. Rained pretty good shower. worked at road after 3:30. Got two big stones out. Another to get out. Baked C's cake but not yet iced. Prayerm't'g. Cut 3 boys' hair. Ball ground pretty well cleared of stumps. Wrote Miss Stumpf.

Fri. Dec. 16 Claudon 11.

Mr. R. came in time for lunch. & staid much of the P.M. Working at the big stone but didn't get it out entirely. C's cake was mostly pink icing. The candles looked very pretty. Billy brot it in.

Sat. Dec. 17

R's wagons came & stuff from Kjb. Raymond helpt bake & make candy. Claudon went with Billy to stay til we come on Mon. Big stone finally rolled down the hill. Very nice road now. Very tired tonight.

Sun. Dec. 18

Breakfast in bed. Seems queer without Claudon. Mr. Clarke came in from safari & came right up here. Came up for supper too. Meetings as usual.

Mon. Dec. 19

Off for the Mara River. Up by 4 A.M. & off just at daylight. Lovely walk over. Left R's about 9 A.M. Mrs. R. not well enough to go. Camping beyond Ngiro. Muragi over took us just about dark. Some letters.

Tues. Dec. 20

Nguri-nguri camp. Slept under tent at side of wagon last night but tonight tied up tent in nice bush. Were up at 4 & gone by 5. All plain country today. Past Salt Marsh early this A.M. Saw lots of animals on the plains.

Wed. Dec. 21

Mara Camp. Up at 4 & off just as it was getting light. Got to first bridge abt 10. No water so went on to Mara River. Fished some but caught only little ones. Tent tied in nice bush. Bot a sheep. Pretty country here. hills & forests. Tent in nice shady bush.

Thur. Dec. 22

Decided to try here today & if we have no luck to go to first bridge & try below the Indians mill. Got a few little fish & then went up to duka. bot a bit of sugar & then back to camp & decided to move right away & are camped half way down the mill road.

Fri. Dec. 23

Went thro woods. Thot it a short cut to the river. but found it very long. Tried some & moved higher up. lovely pools. Muragi accidentally landed a big fellow 3 ½ lbs. but we got no more tho we tried all day. Finished buttonholes in khaki panel.

Sat. Dec. 24

Very hot. Went to the same place & tried til ab't 2 P.M. but tho John had one on the hook it got away & the hook bent straight. Read part of “Flaming forest” aloud. Had trouble with natives abt getting water so refused to give them food. There is water here tonight.

Sun. Dec. 25

This also is a very strange Xmas. Like two years ago. I much prefer the 3 year ago Xmas. So very hot in camp & Jno not feeling very well. so we broke camp ab't 4 P.M. & came to Nguri-nguri on the Olulunga road. Got to camp at 9 PM.

Mon. Dec. 26

Came across plain & to Olulunga. Interesting to have Muragi point out place where battle was fought 3 yrs. ago. Jno & I walked most of way. His feet sore. R & I kept on looking for crossing of river but found there is none til we reach Aggetts store. Saw some kraals.

Tues. Dec. 27 & home.

A lovely drive til 10. Along the river all the way. Beautiful camps. lots of 'em. Very very hot & had to ride as J's foot is badly blistered. Got to Rs about 7:30 left 8:45 & got home by 11. Very tired but so glad to be home. Mr H didn't hear us come.

Wed. Dec. 28

Sprinkle. Surprised many this morning. Had baths & then breakfast. J. kept quiet til 4 then they went down to work at bridge. Mr. C. here to lunch. Bishan Singh called this eve. To bed early.

Thur. Dec. 29

Very hot again. Wanjeri washed & baked bread but its very poor. Think yeast is no good. Up at day light & worked til 10. Had breakfast down there. At it again at 4. Lion got calf for Gashisha. Hitched Ned & Jinger to buckboard. Muragi is to try tomorrow.

Fri. Dec. 30

Muragi hitched up Ned & Jinger (the deal is made) & drove to Narok & got our loads left there also brot parcels from the post. Ours was from Mrs Steele. A lovely white waist & a doz kerchiefs for boys. Muragi seems to know how to drive. Mr. C. left for Endianaser.

Sat. Dec. 31

Baked for safari – dismissed Gashisha as there isn't enough for both to do. Will give Wanjeri Rs. 10. And this closes another year as well as the 5 years of this book. God alone knows the history of my heart. Little of the real has been recorded after all.

[from Memoranda in back of book] Another year is about to close. as well as finishing up this 5 yr Diary. Looking over these years I see nothing but Gods wonderful Grace all the way thro.

The last year has been a climax so far as testings & struggles goes. Never has the enemy been so real. but I am thankful I can also record that God Himself has never been so real either. And over and over again He has proven true & powerful so that when I actually stopt looking about me for help & directly to Him, I was able to rejoice in the complete triumph of His love. How I do praise Him tonight for the joy & peace He gives at this moment. It seems so many things have come up lately that distress and annoy but God has helpt at all times, & I know He will continue to do so.

The last few months have been so enjoyable because the children were here. In two days they leave again & I dread the loneliness but again, He will be sufficient.

I have never suffered such extreme spiritual suffering & also have never suffered so intensely physically as I did last May when my finger was hurt. It is still stiff some & painful if bent too much.

My hearing is much worse too than ever before. and as I have realized this fact it has made me fearful as to where it will end & also has made me very sensitive & easily hurt because (often) of imagined remarks. It is especially trying because John has such a mild voice & I know it is very trying to him to have to speak to me & that often he doesn't tell me things at all rather than to have to speak loud & for a time it most crushed me & I am not always resigned even now. tho I know God only brings such things into our lives as are for our good & I do want to praise Him for deaf ears if in that way He is glorified. If my ears are closed to sounds about me I hope they will always be open to His voice.

Another thing to praise Him for is that Raymond was baptised. I think he tries hard to please his Savior too. There is much I'd like to write but this one thing I want to close with. That wherein I have failed in these years- selfishness, jealousy, bitterness etc etc. I will, by the Grace & power of God, have the victory over & glorify Him even tho it be in physical suffering. I know, only thro Him can this be done & His precious blood. Praise Him, I don't need to perfect myself.

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