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.
_________________
Hatboro, Pennsylvania
__________________
Kijabe, B.E. Africa
__________________
Narok, Masai Reserve
B.E. Africa
[Poem, on clipping]
A NEW LEAF.
He came to my desk with a quivering lip,
The lesson was done -
“Dear
teacher, I want a new leaf,” he said,
“I
have spoiled this one.”
In place of the leaf so stained and blotted,
I gave him a new one, all unspotted,
And into his sad eyes smiled -
“Do
better now, my child.”
I went to the throne with a quivering soul,
The old year was gone -
“Dear
Father, hast Thou a new leaf for me?
I have spoiled this one.”
He took the old leaf, stained and blotted,
And gave me a new one, all unspotted,
And into my sad heart smiled -
“Do
better now, my child.”
[Additional poem, on clipping]
THE GLORY OF PRESSURE.
“Pressed
out of Measure.” --2 Cor. 1.8.
Pressed out of measure and pressed to all length;
Pressed so intensely it seems beyond strength;
Pressed in the body and pressed in the soul,
Pressed in the mind till the dark surges roll.
Pressure by foes, and pressure from friends,
Pressure on pressure, till life nearly ends.
Pressed into knowing no helper but God;
Pressed into loving the staff and the rod;
Pressed into liberty where nothing clings;
Pressed into faith for impossible things.
Pressed into living a life in the Lord,
Pressed into living a Christ-life outpoured.
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.
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.
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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