Florence Minch Stauffacher Diary – 1923.                                                                                Index

[From inside front cover.]

All my life's plan in His molding
       Not one single choice be mine.
       Let me answer, unrepining,
       “Father, not my will, but thine”.

James 4:14

“Beneath the moonlight and the snow
        Lies dead my latest year;
       The winter winds are wailing low
        Its dirges in my ear.
       I grieve not with the moaning wind,
        As though a loss befell;
       Before me, even as behind,
        God is, and all is well.”
                             - Whittier.

Mon. Jan. 1

Got fairly early start from camp & came along sailing – all riding. Mules seemed to know they were coming home. All OK here at Kjb. Some Council members here. God has been very good to us to let us open a new Year for Him. “To Know Him” is my aim.

Tues. Jan. 2

Council meetings all day but none this eve. Women had meeting at Mrs. Propsts this P.M. Dr Blakeslee chairman. Raymond & I did big washing as Kibosha left for Syabei to know from the D.C. if we could return. Mulungit called yesterday & got Jno excited ab't going back. Children went to school this eve to stay.

Wed. Jan. 3

I looked after school children a bit this A.M. so Mr. Blaikie could attend Council. They met all day again. and not yet finished. Did some typewriting for Dr Blakeslee this P.M. Mr. Johnston led prayermeeting. An especially hard P.M. for John as the Industrial work was discussed.

Thur. Jan. 4

10:30 P.M. & Jno not yet home from Council meeting. They want to finish tonight. We had been quite hopeful of getting back home next week but Njoroge came in today with things & letters & from these we fear we will not get a favorable reply from the D.C. Almost finished boys shirts. Supper at Davises. All visiting Council members. Nice time.

Fri. Jan. 5

And John didn't come in til midnight. They must have had a real shaking up. First a lot of arguing & accusing back & forth then prayer & a general breaking up among them & finally a reconciling of most. Council met again this A.M. I went to school. Kendalls are to come here to stay. Board mtg at 1 P.M. Some of the Council left for Nairobi. Barnett & Survey Com. leave tomorrow.

Sat. Jan. 6

Baked a bit- cherry pie, etc. This P.M. we went to Baileys. Expected to have tea but she got a big supper. Noodle soup & fried chicken. Billy R went with us. Kibosha hasn't get returned. Mr. Barnett left today & Rhoad & Dr. D. with him.

Sun. Jan. 7

Lovely quiet day. Jno thot he was to take the meeting but when it was time to begin, Mr. McKenrick took it. We had communion service and there was a real sense of the presence of God. Kibosha returned & we can't go back yet for two weeks at least.

Mon. Jan. 8

Njoroge & Kibosha did a good sized wash. Kendalls got off about 7:30. We changed around with beds. Had ladies meeting this P.M. to know who would take who for Conf.

Tues. Jan. 9

Boys working at cleaning up the garden. I ironed. PM went to Mrs Gabbotts for work. Also to Mrs. Davises for shoes etc of Miss DeMasors. A Miss Raper is visiting her.

Wed. Jan. 10

Mended. Had Leasures come up for supper. Letter from Mr. Hemsted that he hoped we could return in a few days. He would wire us. Prayerm'tg at Mrs. Myers. This is a world week of prayer.

Thurs. Jan. 11

Jno still working at R.V.A. grading around the building. It is hard heavy work. I kept Flora awhile this A.M. Did Mrs. K's ironing & dyed americani to cover a comforter for Claudons bed. Prayerm't'g at Miss Kolachny's.

Fri. Jan. 12

Put the cover on this A.M. Mrs. McKenrick helpt for two hours & I got it all done & took it over this eve. Looks very nice now. There's a school picnic tomorrow. We were asked to go but Jno wants to finish his job so thinks he better stay at it.

Sat. Jan. 13

Baked a cherry pie. Expect the boys over tomorrow. Lot of Kendalls loads came today. Some bananas for Leasures & us. Prayermtg at Miss Zimmermans. Letter from D.M. Millers on their way home. Wants Kenya stamps for a collection for their daughter. Mrs. Millers health very poorly.

Sun. Jan. 14

Irongu turned up here yesterday. We thot he had left for good. Boys here for dinner . & twins & Billy. Jno took P.M. meeting. Miss Kolachny took meeting for children at R.V.A. Mr Propst wanted Jno to go to Nairobi but not sure of money. Got notice of $60. from home.

Mon. Jan. 15

2 more loads came in from Kendalls. Mrs. Gabbott told tonight of 3 of the girls taking a definite stand for Christ. All were touched. Did a lot of typing for Mr. Blaikie. Lots of excitement over the Indian question. Rumored that they are to have equal rights with Europeans.

Tues. Jan. 16

Today we had a telegram say “permission to return at your own risk”. We hoped Hoyts would be thro here- they are expected. & Jno could go to N. with them tomorrow & back on night train but they have not come and we have decided to return without going to Nairobi.

Wed. Jan. 17

Raymond & Claudon, Howard, Paul & Owen were here this P.M. for lemonade & cherry pie. McK's for dinner & cherry pie. Mrs. Gabbott had A.M. tea with me. Hoping to get off tomorrow. We hear Kendalls are not returning til next Tues. Some more loads came this eve. No Hoyts yet.

Thur. Jan. 18 Quarantine.

Got off this morning about 9. Didn't see the boys again. Instead of a Sun. suit R. is to get a khaki coat. Not enuf money otherwise. Mr. Judd overtook us & had coffee in the sand drift. Had supper together at Q. Mr Rainbow also came.

Fri. Jan. 19 Hoyers Camp.

We are stopping here to get things together to take home. Mr R will come & get things next Mon. They had a time to get wagons up the Mau. Mr MacMillans party for a 10 da. hunt require 3 ox wagon loads. Mr Judd & R came in for supper about 8 P.M. Jno was in bed.

Sat. Jan. 20

Worked pretty steadily after Mr. R. left for he came in again after getting wagons off. Have floor up. Most all ceilings off & most of iron off. Awfully stiff & tired & dirty. We have bed & things in a shed set up iron sheets to close ends. Njorogi went home & will return on Mon.

Sun. Jan. 21

Very quiet day. Reading writing & walking. Hoyers boys went to Q. with some of their loads. Didn't tell us they were going. Very cloudy & threatened rain. Fleas are terrible. Sent the boys a letter yesterday.

Mon. Jan. 22

Busy all day taking down walls & getting out nails. Have things pretty well done up. Njoroge hasn't turned up yet. Hoyers boys leave tomorrow with saws. I wrote him a letter.

Tues. Jan. 23

Njoroge came last eve & said Mr. R. was on the way. would come in today. But the wagon came in ab't 8 & a note saying Mr. R. not well Sun. Guess that's my trouble too. Bowel & stomach upset & feel bum all over. Knitted a good lot today.

Wed. Jan. 24

Home! Gone just 7 wks. So nice to get into clean clothes & no fleas. Had a terrible night last night. Loaded wagon this morning & then as they were hitching we left. Terrible headache & bowels worse than ever. Met transport Anderson today.

Thur. Jan. 25

No headache today but bad stomach still. Hope the night will be more restful. Wagon got in at noon. All OK. Leave again in the morning. Send Njoroge to Narok. It is so nice to be here. Everything is in good shape but the garden. Tagi took good care of things.

Fri. Jan. 26

Rainbows are coming on Sun. Mails have been changed. Only in Tues & Sat. out Mon. & Thurs. Baked bread. Went to school a bit. Feel some better. Jno working at smoke house.

Sat. Jan. 27

Baked some & cleaned too. Killed the ox tonight. Not very big. Will hang in guest house til Mon. Soibi brot mail. Quite a bit of home mail. More of the Testament for correction. Considerably better today. Jno not well- same as I.

Sun. Jan. 28

Rainbows came for lunch. Staid til most dark. Wagon got in about noon. Meetings as usual. Cloudy a bit but still hot. Mr. R. says rain soon.

Mon. Jan. 29

Cut up the meat. R's took a back leg. Put most all in salt for smoking. Lots of bones for soup. So hot I hope it wont spoil. Went to school for a little while. Tagi gave us bunch of bananas for Xmas present.

Tues. Jan. 30

Expected letter from the boys but none came. Jno working at walling up back veranda. Thot Mr. Clarke might be back. He left last Sat. in auto. Jno feeling better. Wrote St. Paul folks.

Wed. Jan. 31

Staid in school again much of the day. It is so hot that by P.M. there is very little ambition left in me. John working at closing in back veranda.

This has been a rather broken up month. and Feb will be too no doubt. but we hope we will accomplish all we should even tho there is little regularity.

Thur. Feb. 1

Hot. John ab't finished all he can of veranda. It is very nice. Are drying the meat today ready for smoking tomorrow.

Fri. Feb. 2

[No entry.]

Sat. Feb. 3

Tipito brot mail. A number of letters. A call from Mr. G. to help if possible by paying up. we thot Mr. Blaikie would have word from the bank but it seems not. but God in His goodness has sent Sh. 104 from home which will mostly cover our expence.

Sun. Feb. 4

Rain. Many people passing today. Mr. Clarke's guests all left ab't 5 P.M. so he came to supper. Tried to rest but so hot then it rained for an hour & it is much cooler. Wonder if rains are beginning.

Mon. Feb. 5

Washed. No rain tho cloudy all A.M. Jno went to the garden early- & worked at getting poles for roof. School boys plastering wall & floors. Working off fees. Sale at Narok.

Tues. Feb. 6

Work at school still on. Ndungo is taking Kibosha's place here. K. has gone to Kikuyu for a bit. Working garden & roof. Trying to get mending done. Teaching Gashisha to iron.

Wed. Feb. 7

Mr. Judd & Mr Clarke came in time for A.M. tea. John is taking off iron & putting on new. Very hot so came down at tea time & staid down til 4 P.M. The men staid to lunch. 4 dif. kinds of meat. I had 2 Mr. C. sent up 2. Had music after lunch. Mr. C. asked Jno & I down to dinner. When we got there another man had arrived. We enjoyed the evening.

Thur. Feb. 8

John working at roof. We had wanted Mr. Clarke up to supper & a concert but it is prayermtg. Only we had none. Floor not dry. I raveled what I had knit of cap as it didn't suit. Started again.

Fri. Feb. 9

John had a lot of uralite off. We set the window. then this P.M. it started to rain. and rained pretty hard. Quite a bit came into the house. Mr. C. came up tonight supper & concert.

Sat. Feb. 10

Baked a bit. Mr Rainbow came for the night. Mr. C. & guest, Mr Dowling came up after their dinner for a concert. We went down & had some fruit salad. Almost midnight. They shot off some fire works. First rocket Jno thot was meteor.

Sun. Feb. 11

John took turpentine today and I've had a bad head all day. Got up early to get Mr. Rainbow off before it got so hot. Very heavy clouds all day but only a sprinkle. No meeting tonight the floor is still very wet & cold. Tagi preached this morning.

Mon. Feb. 12

Put in good day of work. All feeling better. This A.M. walked up above Mulungits & gave out gardens to Kuremeno etc. Wrote some letters. Mr Clarke & Dowling to supper. Sending off first corrected sheets. Rain all PM & eve.

Tues. Feb. 13

Gashisha & I ironed. Rain again. Letters saying Mr. C.E.H. is at Arua sick. Conference postponed. In a way it is a relief. but I'm sorry not to see the boys. Spose now it will be at the close of the term.

Wed. Feb. 14

Mr. Clarke left today for Nairobi for a month. He has made statements lately that we are sorry for. He distrusts all the boys here. Thinks they are sympathetic with the warriors. But they arent. Rain every day. Gashisha has baby girl.

Thur. Feb. 15

John up stairs. 'Twill be fine when all done. & cleaned up. May not be able to finish all now to ceiling. lack boards. Worked at Bible verses. Typed quite a number of sheets. Not all I want to yet. Rain.

Fri. Feb. 16

Jno not feeling very ambitious so took a walk back to the irrigation ditch to see once more how to proceed. After tea he worked up stairs. I wrote letters. Have 7 ready to mail tomorrow. My number for the month is now 17.

Sat. Feb. 17

Heavy rain. What surprises mails do bring. A telegram came tonight from Mr. Hurlburt, Kijabe. “Appointed McKenrick deputy in your place.” A letter is on the way to us. but we were surprised and the conjectures!!! Why!!!

Sun. Feb. 18

Some rain. Needless to say last nights rest was quite broken. We took a long lovely walk this morning – when we got in – just in time for meeting – Mr. Rainbow came. Jno went. I made tea. He staid til 3 P.M. He said Mr. H. is not at Kijabe. So we suppose the 'gram was sent thro' McKenrick. May Gods will be done.

Mon. Feb. 19

Such a sunny bright day. Clothes all got dry. John worked at ditch. came home at noon. Ab't 5 P.M. it got very dark & rained & blew very hard. So thankful for good roof & house these days. Baking bread tomorrow.

Tues. Feb. 20

Such a lovely day. Just like in June at home. Grass is growing fast. Letter from boys. That's all!!! John finished ceiling guest room. Mules went away. Boys got back with them after dark.

Wed. Feb. 21

Had dinner out at ditch. Soibi came. Brot letters from several & Mr. McK. He writes very nice also says telegrams from C.E.H. say can't join with CMS in College & Church. How the Lord does work out things. If we only more often waited for Him. Mules gone again.

Thur. Feb. 22

Jno went to ditch again but I didn't. Boys after mules. Found 'em near Narok. I wrote at Song Books. If we'd get some money we'd let Mr Kendall print song books. Perhaps we will.

Fri. Feb. 23

Jno set up tank & put up guttering. A pretty hard job at first. Also set up grinder. Enoch tried it. Hard east rain. guttering leaks some but a good deal of water went into tank.

Sat. Feb. 24

After baking date cookies took lunch to ditch. Went fine today. They got a lot of stones out. Have bad head. Lots of strawberries for supper. No mail. Both tired so early to bed.

Sun. Feb. 25

Nice quiet day. Lovely & sunny all A.M. Just like Spring. Started for a walk at 3 P.M. but came back just as it began to rain. Hailed a bit here but we heard the roar toward Narok. & boys said it rained hard there. No mt'g rain.

Mon. Feb. 26

Washed. I went to ditch. Tagi brot mail of Sat. Letters from mama & Lo. Tagi just got in as it began to storm. It blew awful from the north. Kitchen was a lake. Tank is almost half full already.

Tues Feb. 27

And today she is 69. Letter from boys. & Mr. Johnston making public the change of Deputy. Nothing yet from Congo. Word from Mr Blaikie of $20 from Mr. Claggett. We are grateful for these gifts for we have nothing from Congo for 3 mos.

Wed. Feb. 28

Jno staid home & worked up stairs. Not feeling at all well but hoping to go to ditch tomorrow. I baked all sorts & finished home letters also Questionaire. Boys dug around trees.

Neither this year. [No Feb. 29.] We were disappointed in not hearing from Mr. Hurlburt yesterday. It is hard to be kept in such suspension. I am very glad tho that Jno isn't at all bitter nor resentful about it. He seems positive there is some good reason for it. but just What it is is hard to imagine. I made a list for this month & did almost everything on it. Have gotten a lot of extras done. I'm very thankful.

Thur. Mar. 1

No rain. Gashisha & I set out cactus along walk in front of house. Staid at ditch very late. Paid Enaisho for milk to date. No money has come so can't pay the workmen.

Fri. Mar. 2

Very windy. No rain. Grand moonlight night. Would have been fine for Conf. Getting letters off. Set out calla lilies in wet place. Hope they'll do better. Still at ditch. Sometimes not so encouraging but getting on slowly. Took picture Masai moving.

Sat. Mar. 3

As we came home we found Mr. Anderson (Transport) here. He staid to supper. Quite a lot of home letters. I helpt get a big stone down. Staid pretty late. Miss Simpson wrote that she sent parcel of stockings etc.

Sun. Mar. 4

Nice quiet day. Lovely & bright. Had early supper & took walk up the valley. Found corn & potatoes growing way up from here. Enaisho planted. Meetings as usual.

Mon. Mar. 5

School began. 28 boys. 10 girls. Some will drop out no doubt. Night school begins next week. Sewing this P.M. John took big dose turpentine. We do hope this is effectual. Makes him very sick. Rain & wind this eve. John at ditch alone.

Tues. Mar. 6

Congo mail in form of a cheque. Awfully thankful for it. Letters from the boys. School again. Had English class today. 6 in it. I fear some will never go very far. Catechism Class studying Galatians.

Wed. Mar. 7

Had 8 oclock Geog. class. All seemed interested. Have done quite a little sewing in these three days. No letter from Mr. Hurlburt. Must come next mail.

Thur. Mar. 8

How well I remember a year ago! [John abruptly called to Kijabe.] and the anxious days that followed. Ndungo consented to go to Kijabe with cheque & bring back cash. Leaves early. Made fudge for children also sent beef. No rain for a week.

Fri. Mar. 9

No rain- but wind. Mended. Got mail ready. Want to go early with Jno to ditch tomorrow. One week school past. How well I recall a year ago. [John leaving on foot for Kijabe.]

Sat. Mar. 10

No rain. Cloudy tho. Went with Jno all day. Mail here & word that Dr. Morse Hurlburt had died of blackwater. I was writing Mrs. Hurlburt only today so added another page. Awfully sad. leaves 2 babies. Mr. Kendal sent copy of letter he wrote C.E.H. Wonder what good 'twill do.

Sun. Mar. 11

Nice rain. Such a lovely quiet day. S.S. at 9:30. Quite a crowd there- at least 25. Mulungit is here again. Meetings as usual. Wrote mama “Mothers Day” letter.

Mon. Mar. 12

No rain – cloudy. Washed. School as usual. Tagi begins night school. Started letter to Aunt Annie for birthday. John got lots of stones out today. Rain no doubt loosens them.

Tues.* Mar. 13

Mr. Hurlburt's letter came this eve. See back of book. Note from Mrs. Rainbow that they will be over tomorrow. Letters from the boys also from Cousin Ethel for Uncle Dan. Copied new song. To bed early.

Tues. Mar. 13. [Memoranda, from back of diary.] Tonight the letter from Mr. Hurlburt came to explain why he took John's office & gave it to Mr. McK. He accuses Jno of not living up to the principles of the mission & of trying to upset things about the Alliance when he had settled them & of being out of fellowship with God & man – etc etc. I don't know if Jno will reply or not – he will, I suppose, but how I don't know. From all appearances Mr. H. has been “informed” of a lot of things that never were. and he has taken them for granted & never asked if they be correct or not. I don't know myself just how I would write him but O I do pray that if ever the Lord undertook for any body He will now. It's of course just what the Devil wants. These terrible misunderstandings. If Jno thot it necessary & best I'd be only too glad to have him go to Aba & try to settle things by talking them over. I'm afraid to advise. I can only pray. May God keep us from doing any thing to dishonor His name & cause.

Wed. Mar. 14

Had Geog. early. Rainbows came ab't 11:30. I showed her how to begin sweater. Jno had the phono going. Mrs R greatly enjoyed the foxtrots.

Thur. Mar. 15

I mentioned to Jno that if he thot best he better go to Aba. He had been thinking the same & has written Andersen to know if he'd care to go & take him. Old Mugs came in from Kjb. Hassler wants drake from Mrs R.

Fri. Mar. 16

Mr. R. left buns & bread so wont bake. Some one took J's hammer he left at ditch. Took pictures of Mulungit & family. Mugs goes tomorrow. thot to get Primer printed but J. thinks “No”.

Sat. Mar. 17

Rain. Went with Jno. Almost first thing broke chisel. Much discouraged about it all. Cleaned out ditch to bring water caught in hard rain. Wet thro but nice bath. Mr. Anderson (Transport) here to supper & alnight. Phono this eve. Finished reading Pools of Silence.

Sun. Mar. 18

He is here alright this year. Big rain this P.M. “Sammy” M's friend here. About 8 called before lunch & I gave them tea. Mr. A- left after breakfast. Meetings as usual. Quiet day.

Mon. Mar. 19

Jno came back from ditch about 10:30. Said he found just as much sediment in as he had dug out on Sat. so is going to wait til rains stop to clean it out again then when the water can go all thro it wont fill in. Bo't a rooster from Olgoai.

Tues. Mar. 20

No rain. Baked & ironed. John working in the garden. Boys letters and report of some meeting of Alliance enclosing Questionnaire but too late to write anything – all on Indian Question. Dr. Arthur goes home with Gov. to see about it.

Wed. Mar. 21

Wind. So glad Jno is putting a bit of time in the garden. The boys just don't do anything. Njoroge & Ndungo are too slow to earn their salt. Think we'll pay 'em off at the end of the month. Wrote Aunt Annie & Mrs Riebe tonight.

Thur. Mar. 22

Windy. I sowed some strawflower seed & some others from home. Jno planted big lot of strawberries to right of path. Will put some under the tree too. Prayerm't'g tonight. Ithera led. Guinea fowl came on the hill here this eve. Then flew across river.

Fri. Mar. 23

Some clouds. Tagi brot 6 guineas this morning – with 2 shots. Three weeks of school finished. May have native vacation when R.V.A. does, if most parents want it. Wrote the boys. Started crocheted rug. Expect to go to ditch tomorrow. That may help it to rain. Jno binding books. “Snobs” etc.

Sat. Mar. 24

Tagi's have a girl. Last night just as I got my hair down ready to wash Mr. Anderson came up. Got tea for him after finishing my hair. Pretty good mail. My parcel is at office. Sh. 6.44 customs.

Sun. Mar. 25

Good crowd out to meeting this morning & to S.S. too. Threatened rain all day but only sprinkling now. What I call ideal Sun. Quiet & reading & nice walk.

Mon. Mar. 26

Washed tho very cloudy. Jno went to ditch. Work went so well he will go again tomorrow. Writing letters this eve.

Tues. Mar. 27

Jno came home very late. Rained some this P.M. but had sewing anyway. Rainy this eve but class. Began letter home. Big mail – But he didn't send parcel- Gink.

Wed. Mar. 28

Rainy all P.M. not many to sewing class. Rained A.M. too. Finished 2 shirts & did most of Njeris dress. Finished home letter. John at books.

Thur. Mar. 29

Cloudy & threatening all day but no rain. Strawberries for supper. Prayermt'g. Bargaining with Lipito for ox. Quite small tho.

Fri. Mar. 30

Rain this eve. 5 years ago today we landed at Mombasa. How fast the years have passed. It seems we have done very little – God knows. Getting letters ready for sending tomorrow. Baked today.

Sat. Mar. 31

Intended going to the ditch but it started to rain at 7 & kept at it most all A.M. not hard. I packed lunch but unpacked again. Jno worked up stairs. Not much mail. My parcel has to come fro Naivasha so isn't here yet.

First part of month rather hard but we have been much alone & I believe it has helpt to keep us quiet & trusting Him. Jno had thot Mr Andersen might take him to Congo on motorbike, but Mr. A. can't now & Jno is not so anxious now as we are out of Alliance.

Sun. Apr. 1 Easter.

A.M. cold & cloudy- P.M. bright & spring like. After good rest we went for a walk. tour of inspection. Went straight up the hill to the Ngosor then followed along river. Lovely garden country & if we succeed with stream will all be garden some day. Enjoyed the tramp.

Mon. Apr. 2

Every thing as usual. Jno went to ditch. Sent letter to Kendall ordering things from Nairobi. Forgot fish hooks sent p.c. later may not have caught the mail. Horrid cold in my head.

Tues. Apr. 3

While at sewing class Jno called for me. Mr. McIntock had come. Staid all night. Had phono- postponed class til tomorrow night. Parcel from Miss Simpson corset & stockings. Letters from boys & others.

Wed. Apr. 4

5 yrs. today since we arrived at Kijabe. Mr. MacIntosh went to Narok & back. Had supper & spent evening but sleeps at Clarkes to get off early. I took class. Men talked all eve. Wrote children & Mrs Davis.

Thur. Apr. 5

Cold sticks long & hard. Feel bum today. Saw Mr. MacIntosh leave this morning 6:15. Had Aggetts buckboard. Sent some letters by him. I didn't go to prayermtg.

Fri. Apr. 6

Brot large pepper tree from Soitas garden. Planted in front of house. Mr. Clarke is home just for tonight. Came in auto. Mr. Anderson spending night here. He & Jno are talking on veranda. My head miserable.

Sat.* Apr. 7

Rainy- all night too. Mr Anderson got off. Jno & I walked to ditch to see where water is. Just where he left it. Very discouraging. Letter from Mama M saying Merle died but they had telegram only- so no particulars. Baby boy Jan. 30.

Sun. Apr. 8

Rain all night. Mr. Rainbow came just after breakfast. I got some for him. He left when Jno went to meeting. Quiet day otherwise. Threatening rain. Meetings as usual. I feel better.

Mon. Apr. 9

Showers. Clothes got dry. Some up stairs. Jno not feeling well. Something like I had last week. Wrote Sophy sympathy letter. Mothers wedding day but she's alone this time. Father would be glad to see Merle.

Tues. Apr. 10

Letters from Kijabe. Mr. G. says children can leave Tues. morn. So glad. Mrs. R. says she will send man later with other saddle. Sent one only. Jno feeling a bit better. Ironed. Jno had class.

Wed. Apr. 11

Rain last night. Writing at letters for Kijabe. Sewing going fine. Getting things finished so I wont need to be so busy later. Jno finished out house. Very nice. Boys cleaned out guest house. Showers again today.

Thur. Apr. 12

Baked bread & cookies. Packed box for Kijabe. Very very hard rain. No meeting but Tagi hopes to get off in the morning. Washed hair. Finished reading “Holy Flower” by Rider Haggard. Jno went to the ditch.

Fri. Apr. 13

Tagi got away by 7. Took Nyakeirus mother along. I staid in school. Rain since 4 P.M. quite steady. No school tonight. Jno at ditch. Finished mending worked at rug. Proper rains now.

Sat. Apr. 14

Baked & went to garden. Got a bucket of figs. Went to meet Jno but got to the ditch- Water running all right. Rained again this P.M. & eve. Had letter that schools close for vacation like R.V.A.

Sun. Apr. 15

Rained P.M. Everything as usual. Just finished our reading at 4 P.M. when Mr. MacIntosh came. Stays at C's alnight will eat breakfast with us. Two more nights after this Thur.

Mon. Apr. 16

Expected Mr. Macintosh back today but he didn't come. Washed up things & have the guest house about ready for the boys. Thot there might be objections to closing school but there seem to be none. Rained no sewing class.

Tues. Apr. 17

Had quite long session for sewing but got all done. Mr. Mac. & Mr. Chart came for supper. Had the phono too. They sleep at Clarkes. Quite apt to meet the boys tomorrow.

Wed. Apr. 18

It was raining pretty hard this PM & in they came. Sopping wet. Came down the new road so in the back door. Mr. R. & Howard rode mule back & were very cold. All are sleeping up stairs. Mr. R. went on as she must appear in court tomorrow. House full of wet clothes.

Thur. Apr. 19

4 porters came in ab't 10. Brot all I ordered. They leave early in the morn so took letters tonight. Very rainy so no prayerm't'g. Started to read Ben Hur. Boys all moved into guest house. Have gun trap fixed.

Fri. Apr. 20

Thot Mr. R. would come for Billy. but didn't. Made cocoanut cake & lemon pie & R. made fudge. Boys washed the wet Khaki & socks. Read some this P.M. & eve also phono. Boys helped tie comforter for R's bed. Very pleasant birthday with boys here.

Sat. Apr. 21

3 big boys went to Narok & Rainbows & tried to get some Tommy but failed. Mr Anderson came. Stays alnight. We are not going with him. Too rainy. Music this eve. Jno has taken bad cold & feels bum.

Sun. Apr. 22

Boys decided at breakfast to go to Ngiro taking Mr Anderson. Howard may go on with him & R. & P. return. Meetings as usual. Very heavy rain all P.M. & eve. No meeting tonight.

Mon. Apr. 23

Washed. Sunny this A.M. & tho threatened this P.M. it didn't rain. Njoroge took Billy home. Mrs R. may be here Thurs eve on way to Nairobi. Things have turned out very serious & she may be arrested.

Tues. Apr. 24

Ironed & cut up meat. R. & P. came back about 4 P.M. all way from Salt Marsh. Brot mpala head & quarter. Meat wherever one looks. Can't take care of all.

Wed. Apr. 25

Baked bread & fried cakes & buns. Prayerm't'g this eve because expect Mrs. R. tomorrow. Starting to mend stockings – about 20 pairs to do. Read at Ben Hur. Gun went off but didn't kill anything.

Thur. Apr. 26

Mrs. R. came about 3 P.M. My head bad. Phono this eve. She told me all about her trouble. It seems very one-sided. Olduboi goes to Kjb tomorrow. Send a letter to Mrs Davis

Fri. Apr. 27

Read at Ben Hur. I finished knitting Pauls socks longer. Have quite a lot to mend yet. Wrote to Mrs. Hoyt. Caught hyena in snap trap. Shot it this morning.

Sat. Apr. 28

Letter from Mrs. Davis asking if they can't come over for a camp with us. Don't hardly know what to say. Hung meat – will smoke tomorrow. Baked some. Ate dinner at spring. worked at stones there.

Sun. Apr. 29

Nice day. Big S.S. Children attended services A.M. & eve. Took walk this eve. Had nice meeting this P.M. Wrote Mrs. Davis we hadn't gone camping because of rain but as it had stopt we might go & if they wanted to risk it to come on.

Mon. Apr. 30

Good sized wash. Kashisha gets pretty tired. Made trap back of Oldubois & put in a dog for bait. Use Mr. R's snap trap. Caught hyena last night.

I had hoped we could go camping & am urging it yet but Jno says “wait til Davises come”. Then I fear rains will be on again. Boys seem very ambitionless. I fear Hoyts are disappointed.

Tues. May 1

Ndugo brot the mail. Letter from Lora. Boys slept this P.M. so read late tonight. Claudon & W. lie down by fire & sleep. Ironed. Jno at the spring. Boys at their dam for swimming hole.

Wed. May 2

Intended to take din. at river crossing but forgot so went down with sup. Threatened rain but nothing came of it. Strawberry short cake. Mrs R's man returned. Mr. R. has to go & she wants us to keep Billy.

Thur. May 3

Sprinkled pretty stiff during the night. Took cold somewhere & stiff from walk yesterday. Wonder if Davises are planning to come. They have my letter. Finished Ben Hur.

Fri.* May 4

Mr. R. & Billy turned up ab't 8 P.M. Mr. Clarke came in also & several others there. Says he'll be up tomorrow. Sent Claudon to ask if he saw anything of Davises he says they were on top of Mau this morning. Reading Nigger stories from Sat. Eve. Post. Finished read ex on Luke. Baked a lot.

Sat. May 5

Were getting cleaning done early so every thing would be ready for Davises but when Mr. C. came up ab't 10 A.M. he said it was Davisons. Gov't Dr. he saw. & knew nothing of our Davises & as they haven't come yet they probably wont. Mr. C. had dinner & sup with us & phono afterward.

Sun. May 6

Meetings as usual. Were going to take tea out but it was threatening so went to C's instead. Then he asked to come to sup. It rained so there was no meeting but just as Mr C was settling for pleasant eve a note came to say Mr. Francis & Dixons were at his house he left at once. Pleasant day & rainy night.

Mon. May 7        Note on scrap of paper

While busy with washing, Howard & Mr. Anderson & wagon came. Plans are soon made to leave with Mr. A. tomorrow. Baked bread, cookies. Sup. at Clarkes. Finished baking about 10:30 P.M. Pretty well ready for leaving. Mr. A. sleeps here. Mr. C. took pictures.

Tues. May 8

Wagons & loads got off in good time. We left by 7:30. Never got ready so quick before & as Mr. Francis is with us we are 10. R. shot Kongoni just beyond Ndulele. Camping at Nettle bed. Auto passed going to Narok for Mr. Hemsted on R. case. We do wonder how things will come out.

Wed. May 9 Quarantine

Lolpojus brot mail. Few letters. Got in here about 2 P.M. Had lunch at once. or supper. Mr. A. & Mr. F. went on to Kjb with wagons. Expected Mr. Clarke might come in but hasn't. No rain here for some time. May pitch tent over on Mountain tomorrow. Mr. A. got eland.

Thurs. May 10

Rained pretty stiff last night. Boys went for hunt before break. & got feet soaked. Mr. C. came in about noon. Camped here tonight. Eats with us. Says Mr. Dowling is now at his place. May get away on this boat. R. got another Kongoni for C's men.

Fri. May 11

3 big boys took Mr. C. to reef. After lunch we & little boys went to Rickmans camp. Looked for buffalo water hole. Got very tired. Leasure sent a man out with vegs. & ask us to stay there. Boys shot zebra. Nothing else today.

Sat. May 12

Kendalls sent 2 men with potatoes etc. All very nice. They say we should stay there. Half allowance has come this month. Mr. Hurlburt is expected soon. Mrs K has been ill is better. R & Howard provoked Jno by shirking work. He scolded. Quite right again. K's men went back with wagon. Boys got Kongoni & 2 guinea fowl.

Sun. May 13

Took walk this morning to the rocks. Took picture. Rainbows came between showers. Then Mr Aggett so we moved to grass house. Had a very hard rain most all P.M. Got the boys to read up their Scripture Union readings. R's & we all in grass hut. R's case comes off June 21.

Mon. May 14

R's had tea & then left. We ate breakfast then moved back into iron house. Boys shot 2 grants. Lions around last night. Boys would like to find them. but I'm glad they don't meet up with any.

Tues. May 15

Got porters off early. Then we. Boys got Tommy & Kongoni. At station we were warned about coming up but tried it – pushing cart across stream so many land slides. unhitched & left cart. Rained some. C. not well. We stay at Davises.

Wed. May 16

Educational Com. met all A.M. & School Board all P.M. Prayerm't'g this eve. Rhoads are at D's too. Guess we wont get out til next Tues. Will try to go to Nairobi on Mon. C. feels better but not well.

Thur. May 17

Mrs. Rhoad & I spent A.M. with Mrs. Leasure. P.M. worked by ourselves & Mrs. McK & Allen called and we went to Mrs Myers for tea. Rained much of the time. Finished work this eve. R's leave in morning.

Fri. May 18

Prayer day. Good meetings A.M. & P.M. Called on Mrs. Kendall. Seems to be improving. Kibosha came with letters. Home mail. 2 parcel receipts. Al is sending birthday presents. Linnell & Philip have gone to R.V.A.

Sat. May 19

Rainy. Board meeting this A.M. Also went to the shop & Leasures. P.M. called on Miss Slater. Intended seeing all but hadn't time. At McK. for tea. I went to R.V.A. for a bit. J has Mr. L's 5 ft. book shelf.

Sun. May 20

This P.M. we were told tomorrow is bank holiday. Have decided to wait for Tues. & chance it back on goods train. Jno took P.M. meeting. I took eve. childrens. Nice time all day. At RVA for supper.

Mon. May 21

Dr. went to Kikuyu. We have things ready for going early in the morning. Quite a bit of sun. Can't pack much til we get back from town.

Tues. May 22

Got off & did shopping. Jno had to stay on account of dentist work. No Bank holiday yesterday- only in Eng. Mrs. Davis staid too as she didn't get done. I came on goods abt 5.

Wed. May 23

Delivered goods. This P.M. word came Mr. Hurlburt arrives Fri. Jno & Mrs. Davis came this eve. Think we must wait now to see him. When will we get away.

Thur. May 24

Jno & I went to station called on Macintoshes. No wagons going out now so guess we must get porters. Had Dr. look Raymond over. He says his heart is not good. but with care will get stronger.

Fri. May 25

Mr Hurlburt came & we saw him. He hopes to come out. but wants Jno to stay here for council with Rhoad & McK. We will go on to Quarantine & hope Jno can join us before we go on but not much hopes.

Sat. May 26 Quarantine

Seems to be an annual affair. [At Quarantine this date previous year.] In way to station met Mr. Anderson (Transport) & he said the stony stream bridge is gone. So Jno decided to come on with us. Do wonder what Mr. Hurlburt will say. Children didn't like going back alone to R.V.A. Rained on way.

Sun. May 27

Nice quiet day. There's a big camp here & a man in Aggetts store & Mr. & Mrs A. came today. Also Mulla who sleeps in veranda of grass house. Rather looked for porters today.

Mon. May 28

Staid here today. Dr. shot Tommy & Kongoni. Porters came but no letters, so guess they'll let Jno go on. Did a good deal of running around today. Cold & disagreeable.

Tues. May 29 Ndulele.

All had miserable night. Got here after a hard day. Bad head & bowels & sick all over. Sleep in end house but had to turn out some natives. Jno had spell like fever.

Wed. May 30 Home

It is good to be here. I feel a bit better. Jno had something like chill & then fever. All tired. I baked biscuits for supper. Men want to return tomorrow so wrote letters to send by them. Mail here & every OK. Things have grown a lot.

Thur. May 31

Feeling pretty bum but trying to get things put away. Didn't go to school. Tho most came here. Baked a bit. Yeast doesn't seem very good. Curtis party camped here tonight. Called- Jno in bed.

Dr. is to exam. Jno. & I hope he does it soon. He gave me med. for cough & it is quite gone. This has been a very turbulent mo. No 2 days alike. Need to do much writing & school work this next month.

Fri. June 1

Baked bread. Not very good. Getting straightened up somewhat. Jno seems better. Worked quite a bit in garden. Kiloo, Davises boy, helps with table. Washed for them today. Jno wrote Mr. C.E.H.

Sat. June 2

Baked cherry pie & birthday cake. Dr. went to Narok to see Mrs. Lobo. Sent Njoroge to Breretons for butter. Brot 3 lbs. & a nice letter. Some home mail. From Aunts Lorene & Annie & $5 from Franks.

Sun. June 3

Pleasant day. Meetings as usual. Mrs D. feeling badly & staid in bed most all day. I had bad sick headache. Couldn't eat any birthday cake. [John's 45^th.]

Mon. June 4

All better. I spent a good deal of time in school. Kamau wa Kaheriko has come for work. Milaun has been making trouble in school. by being stubborn. Is alright again.

Tues. June 5

Some more parcels have come & I must send Sh 3.90 customs. haven't the others yet. Sent customs from Kijabe. Letter from boys. Curtis party called.

Wed. June 6

Breretons passed on way to Nairobi all stopt in for tea. Mrs. Dixon was with them. We are reading Reigning Life by Chas. Usher. but can't agree in every thing.

Thur. June 7

Baked bread. Got pretty good. Everything as usual. Mrs. D. writing letters. Prayermeeting this eve.

Fri. June 8

Read some nigger stories tonight. They are so funny. Have most finished Kenneth Leasures sweater. Hope I'll get chance to send it.

Sat. June 9

Baked a few cakes. Jno & Dr. & boys at the ditch boring hole for dynamite. Not much mail. Got butter from Paulo. Got out reports to date.

Sun. June 10

All meetings as usual. Nice quiet day such as I like. lovely sunshine. Took a long walk after supper.

Mon. June 11

Rainbows came ab't noon with car. buckboard. Too heavily loaded so left chickens & took only ducks. Left me three ducks. Sleep in their wagon. hope to leave early. No sewing class.

Tues. June 12

Just finishing ironing when a Mr. Mallinkhrodt called & introduced himself is Am. from St. Louis. Later Mr. Sury, guide & Mr. Godley N.Y. came. They had lunch & supper & spent evening. Camp here.

Wed. June 13

Campers called before break & said goodby. I finally had sewing class. Jno was to have class but didn't for some reason. Notice of 2 parcels – one wants Sh. 27+ customs. Shall wait til get others.

Thur. June 14

Spent most A.M. at school. Cloudy & gloomy most all day. Had sewing class this P.M. because we missed so much. Prayermt'g tonight. Started R's Khaki stockings.

Fri. June 15

Dr. went to Narok. Had quite long prayermt'g this morn- as this was prayer day. Want to start with new program next week. 'Twill take more of my time til we get started.

Sat. June 16

Went up to the ditch after baking a bit. Did two blasts, worked fine. 2 letters from Lora. No parcels yet but they are there. Phono & stories.

Sun. June 17

Quiet, restful day. All mtgs as usual.

Mon. June 18

Gashisha washed. We tried new program. opening school at 8:30. Went pretty well today. Sewing this P.M. Stories this eve.

Tues. June 19

I took class. 3 parcels today: 2 from Al & 1 from Aunt Lorene. Such nice things in all. Aunt L's was med. for John. but he doesn't need it as the dose of turpentine finished things.

Wed. June 20

Prymt'g after sewing class. Letter from Mr. Orr says Tagi must go to Kikuyu for exam. If there is no better way, Davises will go with him at that time. He must leave 1 wk from Fri. Jno working at Questionnaire.

Thur. June 21

First thing a note came from Mrs Brereton “May they come up for breakfast”. They came to Clarkes late last eve. They came to late break. then went on by 10. J. helpt across river. J. went to ditch this PM. Finished home letter. J. had prayermt'g.

Fri. June 22

Dr. went to Narok. Got cash for me. And this P.M. a letter comes by runner from Kjb asking Jno to be there by Tues. Course Davises want to go too while I 'd rather they'd stay. I don't want to go but shall do what Jno says is best.

Sat. June 23

Have planned many things. Now Dr. says he will stay til Jno comes back then ride in alone. Suits me alright. New suit came. Also postum 1 doz. comes to Sh. 3 per tin. Baked bread (very good) cakes & date cookies. Jno worked at road. Tagi may go too on Mon.

Sun. June 24

Very bad head. Services as usual all day. Trying to get a few things together so they can get off in good time. Talked late after mt'g. Mrs. Davis went along. Tagi will go. Several others are going too.

Mon.* June 25

They got off in fair time- 7:30. Have been very busy all day. Tagi's going has left me with it all to do. First day hasn't past so badly. It's the night I dread most. Dr. has amused himself. We read from J.R. Millers book. Very good.

Tues. June 26

Quizzed Njoroge & Soita. 2 letters from Lora. Bart had his operation & was getting on pretty well. Mrs. Davis is no doubt enjoying being “home” again. Wonder if Jno is stying with her. The days work has gone pretty well in spite of not feeling up to much.

Wed. June 27

Everything as usual. Glad another day is past. By this time Jno knows when he can come back. Olduboi & Maringu here for test. Wrote Carolyn Smith.

Thur. June 28

Dr. went to Narok. Got back for dinner. Just as we finished reading & prayer a Kjb boy came saying Dr. should leave in the morning & that Jno was coming in with Rainbows. Soibi took prayermtg.

Fri. June 29

Jno & Rainbows got in ab't 7 P.M. I went to plain to meet them & only got back a few min. when they came. Jno says their motor buck board rides very easy. We had supper & looked at “Jigs” then bath & to bed. Dr. left early & is at Quarantine no doubt.

Sat. June 30

We went a bit on their gari. Came back on short cut. Rides nice. Jno had his talk with Mr. C.E.H. Guess every thing is quite satisfactory between them. Tho he had only a couple of hrs. with him. Leasures leave on Tues. for home. We are to get their stove.

Mrs. Davis got very tired going back. I fear her month here didn't help her much. She needs a longer rest than a month. We enjoyed the month with them tho I was quite busy yet there were visiting times. So glad to have the school work so well arranged.

Sun. July 1

Meetings as usual. Jno seems so sleepy. Took walk up valley to Enaisho's garden. otherwise slept & read all day. Wrote to the children too.

Mon. July 2

Gloomy & misting most all day. Rained a bit this eve. Jno tried to work in the garden. Kashisha washed but none got really dry. Are upstairs. Sent Milaun for butter. Wrote letters this eve. Olgoai is learning to run the typewriter. Tagi's day for exam. Hope he passed.

Tues. July 3

Letter from Mrs. Hurlburt. and some papers. Started Matties letter. Jno got ready for class but it rained so didn't go over. Wonder if Mrs Kendall is having operation today. Rainbows past going to Kjb. She goes and to Nrb case business.

Wed. July 4

Tagi didn't come so may not have finished on Mon. Sewing finished again for this week. Sort of drizzling this eve. Started home letter.

Thur. July 5

Tagi came this eve. Brot flour brown & white & soap which was much needed. Boys brot word some thing killed 12 sheep at Clarkes last night for Somali. Tagi set gun trap.

Fri. July 6

Haven't had such a bum day in school for long time. Tagi not well couldn't come. Soibi came but went home. Several missing for other reasons. Worked at books & letters.

Sat. July 7

Jno went to ditch. I baked bread, cakes & cookies & pie. Jno back late for dinner. Only papers in the mail. Was disappointed that Tagi had to take exam in Kikuyu- but hope he passes anyway.

Sun. July 8

Lovely quiet day. Services as usual. Nice walk this P.M. up thro the woods & gardens. Such lovely corn. No famine here for few months.

Mon. July 9

Seems good to have Tagi here again. Mr. Rainbow came about 10 A.M. Staid to lunch. Said he would be back by Sat. Goes to Sotik. Jno finished Questionnaire tonight & it goes off tomorrow.

Tues. July 10

Cold & cloudy. This eve Mr. Clarkes man called us down to see the family of little pigs. I counted 8. Jno feeling bum but went to class. Also went to the ditch this A.M. Not much mail.

Wed. July 11

Jno & boys working at road from here past gardens to the bend of road. Several of Aggetts wagons camped here. Goanese in tent. Prayer mt'g this P.M. Good number out. Olduboi has missed school for 2 days.

Thur. July 12

Worked at skirt. Its troubling me a bit to see how best to fix it. Jno went to ditch but didn't do much. He just carries the water along a bit further each time he goes. Quite a shower but stopt for mt'g. Wrote Mrs Ralph Hulb.

Fri. July 13

Another week of school done. Tried taking a picture of Jno in the corn but too cloudy- fear it wont be good. Tagi shot 3 pigeons. Got letters ready this eve. D.C. Hoskins & Mr Brereton called.

Sat. July 14

Cloudy all day rain this eve. 2 letters from Lo. The second written May 28. says very little show for Albert. I'm a bit homesick tonight. Wish I could help her. Letter from Cora too & the boys letter came. Expected Mr. Rainbow but he hasn't come.

Sun. July 15

Quiet day tho looking for Mr. Rainbow. Services as usual. Walked up to Mulungits as it was bright & sunny but he had gone. Wrote Lora. Thinking so much about her today.

Mon. July 16

Cloudy. Breretons came about 11. Had lunch here & before they left saw Rainbow was here. He staid for supper. & after. Was late because of bad roads. Seems very discouraged about his trip.

Tues. July 17

Parcel from home. 2 waists. Mr. Rainbow left late. Tagi set gun trap for leopard & brot it here ab't 7:30. Got Breretons up to see it. Then had music as John's class didn't come. The leopard is a beauty. Twill make a lovely skin. Guess it will be Raymonds.

Wed. July 18        bin Wagstaff letter

And today he [Raymond] is 15. Does not seem so long ago. We were at Breretons for dinner this eve. Went up to see Nyakeiru's mother. Has a bad leg. Took picture of sewing women tho very cloudy.

Thur. July 19

More sunny. Breretons here for tea & long walk all over the place. We went to prayermt'g. A crowd of their boys here. The bridge is getting on very slowly. River is up again.

Fri.* July 20

Prayer day. Note from Mr. Probst that he will likely be in tomorrow. Mrs Brereton baked a cake here. They came up for supper & had phono.

Sat. July 21

Mr. Probst has not yet come. May come in tomorrow. Baked & did the usual things. Jno almost finished the cart “annexes”. It will make it much handier & roomier on the cart. Prayer Conf. Sept. 3-9.

Sun. July 22

Mr. Probst got in just at noon. came down the new road. Rested & talked & walked around the place. Nice sunshine so took M's picture in corn.

Mon. July 23

Washed. Jno & Mr P. visited & walked over the gardens. Went to Breretons for supper. Sent letter to Mr. Gabbott to meet us at Quarantine if possible next Fri.

Tues. July 24

Letters today. Claudons brot word of his acceptance of Christ as his Savior. Never had better news. Lora's said Bert seemed on the gain. Mr. Gabbotts said they would stay for Conf. & then go somewhere for short time.

Wed. July 25

Mr. Probst left yesterday morn. Curtis people camped here last eve & called. Boy ringing bell cracked it. I'm so sorry. Breretons had supper here. She helpt me make candy for boys. Expect to go to Ndulele tomorrow.

Thur. July 26

Left ab't 11. Got to Ndulele in good time. Sleep in old house. Cart rides so much easier with less in it & more room for feet. Jno rode much of the way.

Fri. July 27

Got to Quarantine ab't 12. Had lunch & rest. Miss Rogers came ab't 4:30. Hope to get off in good time in morning. Curtis party are not far from here shooting. Getting letters etc ready for sending in the morning.

Sat. July 28        Note on scrap of paper-Tagi's death

Home but O what news!!! Got off just at day light- breakfast at foot of Mau. Met Njoroge at little Mau with note from Soibi saying Tagi was dead! See back for particulars. Were to eat at Breretons but they excused us. Feel terribly depressed.

[Written:] Aug. 6, 1923 [From back of Diary.] On July 28 as Jno & I were returning from Quarantine where we met Miss Rogers, Njoroge met us at foot of little Mau bringing the note from Soibi (which is attached). [Note is missing.] We were horrified, shocked- dumbfounded. “Why” was the question always arising. We hurried home as fast as possible. Found groups sitting about the school house. Tagi was nicely dressed lying on a stretcher. Looked so natural & lifelike. I shall always remember his face. The grave was ready and as soon as we were satisfied about the position of the wound we let them carry him out & bury him. Jno went with them & had prayer at the grave and Miss Rogers & I went to the women at the house. Sun. services were sort of funeral. Jno took Rom. 8:28 & spoke very helpfully but O – on every hand was his work, his writing etc & I couldn't keep the tears back during the service. I know he is enjoying every sentiment expressed in those songs & verses he has so carefully translated. On Mon. - one week ago – was hardest. for Enoch was so discouraged and did not want to help any more. Tho't we better stop the work. Mulungit came forward & offered for anything- and Soibi was willing to do the night school. So we went at it & I urged Enoch to get to it & help. He has. On Tues. & every day since he has helped fine. Mulungit does translating then we go over it & Enoch puts it on the board for them to copy. Mulungit also helps Jno about his work. We cannot yet see why God allowed it but we know He knows best. and we know Tagi is very happy in His presence.

This is how it happened, or seems to have happened. He went up above the gardens to cut sticks for some building & took the gun along so if he saw any monkeys. He set the gun down leaning it against a couple of small trees or saplings. Then he piled his cut sticks down just beside it. He was evidently sorting or arranging the sticks for carrying when some caught & in pulling them back one hit the trigger so as to pull it back & discharge it- probably at the same time knocking the gun down a bit for the charge went into his breast in front of the right shoulder & from the side so it went into the heart. There seemed to be no struggle at all. He lay as he fell- on his back. Mulungit took us to the place & showed us just how it all was.

They heard the gun go off about 4 P.M. on Fri. July 27, but thot he was shooting at monkeys. When he did not come for milking nor even for school work they began hunting for him but it soon got too dark. They went out again early Sat. morning and Munye & Ndegwa were together when they found him in the bush with gun & sticks all as described. They must have hunted hard for it was such a way from the path or gardens. God allowed it & we just pray that great good will come from it.

Sun. July 29

Jno spoke from Rom. 8:28. Everyone is so sad – when singing his translations of hymns & realizing how he is enjoying the sentiments in them. I couldn't help crying & all day its been hard to keep tears back. I dread tomorrow.

Mon. July 30

Showery. I think I never spent such a hard day. Every body in school so sad. Enoch all discouraged. I came home & had a good cry. Most boys want to help but just how to do is hard to say yet. God help me in this hard time.

Tues. July 31

Clearer. Everything went much better today. Enoch is helping well. & I shall more & more turn things over to him & the others. Mulungit is trying translation. He also helps Jno every A.M. To Breretons for tea & to the falls on this side. They are so pretty now.

Can't say that. [referring to same date previous year she described as “A very uneventful month.”] About the most joyful day and certainly one of the saddest came to us this month. Claudon wrote he gave his heart to Jesus Sun July 15 & Tagi's death to off set the joy.

1923 [From Memoranda, back of diary.] The month is past. The term of school ended. How the next will be carried on is known to God alone. I fear Enoch will not want to teach. Then I must pretty well rearrange all. I fear too for E. if he stops teaching he will become more indifferent to the work of God. May God give wisdom.

Wed. Aug. 1

Somewhat sunny. Work as usual. Jno started the floor in the kitchen. So glad. School went pretty well. M. brot first translation- fairly well done. Prayer m't'g at Wanjikus. Good number out.

Thur. Aug. 2

Lions bothered a lot last night so when Breretons came to set the gun trap they staid all night. & we put out an old cow for bait. We heard nothing but cow was dead & partly eaten. Every one says it was lions.

Fri. Aug. 3

Am so glad this week of school is done. 1 wk. ago tonight Tagi lay out in the woods. Seems like an age. Mr. Probst came in today & Breretons came back for the night. Made a trap over the cow & hope to get lion. Have 1 hyena. Men may watch from tree.

Sat. Aug. 4

Nothing came (bait 1 hyena) tho we staid up til midnight. This morning had breakfast then hitched & went to the falls. Mrs B. was not feeling well at first but got better. Falls are grand now. Such a volume of water going over.

Sun. Aug. 5

All rested well last night & this P.M. again. Mr. Probst wants to get off in good time in the morning- for Quarantine. Ndebe & Wangai here. Also Loseyo, Tagis brother. The shauri will be settled about the cattle. He wants one of the children but that wont be allowed.

Mon. Aug. 6

Mr. Probst left in good time. Took Nance in place of one of his that wont be hitched up. Jno at the floor again. All stones in. Washed. Stedmans Americans here for supper with Mr. Percival.

Tues. Aug. 7

Miss Rogers went yesterday to high bridge for cedar tree. Staid all day. Only boys letter & Mr. G's enclosures. They will come for vacation. Lions haven't been around at all.

Wed. Aug. 8

P.M. meeting of women. Fair attendance. Wanjiku comes out to things now again. Jno & Mulungit finished the floor. and is so nice.

Thur. Aug. 9

Jno went to Breretons camp early to see ab't looking up Nairaq Ngare valley for road. Mr. B. didn't go along but Jno is satisfied it can be done. Rode back with Mr. Horne. There was an after mt'g this eve. We were excused.

Fri. Aug. 10

Cloudy. While working at wall today in kitchen an old man came from a kraal down river said lions were bad. Jno & Mr. B. have gone. Made trap & put in cow. Mrs B. stays here alnight. Talked late. Had shortcake for sup.

Sat. Aug. 11

Letter from Mrs R. in prison. Jno & Mr. B. came ab't 7. Never saw or heard a thing. They went home & we are to go over on Tues as school closes on Wed. Films from Mr. G. Tagis looks very good. None are bad.

Sun. Aug. 12

As usual. Very quiet day. Intended doing some writing but rested and read too much.

Mon. Aug. 13        FMS letter

Washed & did all usual things. Got every thing ready as much as possible for tomorrow. Soibi not very well, but will be better tomorrow. Started home letter.

Tues. Aug. 14

Got off in good time. & had a fine time. Lovely dinner & then a nice scramble down river & out of the valley. Mr. B. brot us part way in cart then returned so they can come in it on Thur.

Wed.* Aug. 15

Soibi hurt himself carrying some corn & has been away from his work for two days. School seems to have gone alright yesterday. Tho Enoch had his hands full.

Thur. Aug. 16

Sunny all day. Breretons came just before 12. Mr. Anderson & an American came up too but they had had lunch. We had short cake. Mrs. B. brot some of her records along & we've been running phono.

Fri. Aug. 17

Mrs. B. came for case left in cart. Jno fixed smoke pipe of debes. Looks like it would be alright. Finishes stone work tomorrow. Another week done. Spoke to Enoch about going away next week. He says alright. They can get on. Soibi not out yet.

Sat. Aug. 18

Letter from Gabbotts they have given up coming. He is not at all well. Probst boys are coming. Mr. Rainbow here to lunch. Sent letter to G's by him. He will come out when boys do.

Sun. Aug. 19

Sunny morning. Very sick headache all P.M. Meetings as usual. Didn't go tonight as my head still aches & I wanted to get letters off. Have things pretty well ready for tomorrow.

Mon. Aug. 20 Pond Ndulele

Up early & to Breretons camp by 8:20. They were ready & we worked our way up the valley to the pond. A fine grade all the way. Tomorrow will tell what can be done. Miss Rogers under cart. We in tent & they in theirs.

Tues. Aug. 21

Left camp & worked way to Nairaq Ngare. We staid there & men went on. Nothing to hinder a fine grade all the way to N.N. and down again to Wieke. Back to camp by 6:30. Very tired but content with days work. Saw buffalo tracks.

Wed. Aug. 22

Home by 4. Sent word for Wanjeri to get supper for all of us. Cut our way back again nearer the top of hill. Saw rhino tracks. All glad to be back again.

Thur. Aug. 23

School seems to have gone alright. Am having English every day as they had Swahili while I was away. All of us rather tired. Prayerm't'g tonight. No Congo mail.

Fri. Aug. 24

Quite sunny. Can't realize only one more week of school. 4 weeks ago was the accident. Lovely moon again. Breretons here for supper & shortcake. We're to go there tomorrow. Hope children will be here in another week. Ndilai has a baby boy.

Sat. Aug. 25

Miss Rogers lost her pen. Bread is awful. Picked strawberries & took to B's for supper. Nice time. Childrens letter & note from Mr Gabbott. They think they better not come or rather Dr. does. Getting things together a bit for Mon.

Sun. Aug. 26

Cloudy & cold. Quiet day. All services as usual. Before we really finished P.M. service Breretons came up. Finished letters to different ones. Everything pretty well ready.

Mon. Aug. 27

A bit of rain this eve. Mulungit drove. They got off about 7. Nyakeirus mother wanted to go we said no. Then she brot heavy load of food to send to her daughter. Jno emptied half. It does seem rather nice to be alone again. Mr Mallinkhrodt called & left lots of medicines. He got rhino.

Tues. Aug. 28

Mail said school closes Thurs. So boys wont get here til Sat. Hope Miss R. got there alright. No Congo word yet. Very late this month. Jno went to class. I wrote two “Great Men”.

Wed. Aug. 29

Had prayermt'g this P.M. Had lunch at the bridge where Jno is helping a bit. Breretons here for supper & a bit of music.

Thur. Aug. 30

Only one more day left for school. Jno helpt again at bridge. I went down to call for lunch & watched 'em lay the last girder. M't'g as usual tonight. Excited boys at R.V.A.

Fri. Aug. 31

Very glad to finish up all today. Breretons asked us there for supper. Suppose boys are sleeping at Quarantine tonight. (Later- but they didn't but at foot of Mau.)

Am glad to say the last month was very successfully past thro- so far as outward appearances go in school. Glad to close the term but it hasn't been nearly so hard as it seemed it would be. God be praised for all His mercies.

Sat. Sept. 1

While eating lunch the children, ours & Probsts came. Only they not Rainbows. They look well & seem as glad to get here as we are to have them. Had so many strawberries so asked Breretons up. Chas lost one slipper off cart. Both he & R. have grown. Cheque at Nairobi- thank God.

Sun. Sept. 2

All meetings as usual. Boys plastered the little room yesterday so had S.S. in large room today. Took walk this eve wrote Mrs. Probst. Read & slept. So nice to all be together again.

Mon. Sept. 3

Suppose every one gathered at their different centers. Jno & I have our centre at the Throne. We pray much for others as well as ourselves that we may realize all God wants to do in these days. All hands go to gardens at ditch.

Tues. Sept. 4

Very quiet blessed time in woods this A.M. alone. Jno went to ditch. Together this P.M. God has allowed us to be here by ourselves for some purpose. May we let Him have His way. Breretons got supper but came here to eat it. Full remit this mo. So grateful. N.E & J. only part. 40%.

Wed. Sept. 5

Grand A.M. in woods. Sunny & ideal. Seems so near to God out there. Jno & children to ditch. P.M. rather upset tho got everything in but rest as Rainbows came- about 2 P.M. Womens meeting. So had ours about 1. 4 boys set out to overtake Somali supposed to have stolen Oldubois donkey.

Thur. Sept. 6

Rainbows staid to breakfast. A lovely A.M. again. Jno had shauri on ab't gardens etc. Mended some after our P.M. meeting. Set posts for grenadilla arbor near woods.

Fri. Sept. 7

Bad head. No supper. After P.M. meeting a man turned up from Kjb with letters. Shaffers have come & want to come over at once. About decided to call off next weeks fun & Jno go on Mon. & get back Sat with them. Boys are agreed that's best.

Sat. Sept. 8

Wrote Breretons to call off next week trip cutting road down Narok. They say they are disappointed but we think S's are eager to get here. Baked lovely bread yesterday. Oven worked fine. Lunch at the river.

Sun. Sept. 9

Hot today. And here this year he [Mr. Rainbow] is going to Kjb again [was going to Kijabe this date last year] but we don't mind this time for he brings Shaffers. Saw their picture in paper & how we wonder what they are like. Guess we'll know pretty soon. Meetings as usual. Phono cabinet came. What a beauty!!!

Mon. Sept. 10

Sprinkle this P.M. They got off in fairly good time. Mulungit went along. By this time they are resting at Quarantine. Washed big wash. Mended some. Donkey boys returned & 3 Eskaris & the Somali & donkeys. D.C. Naivasha has fined him 2 mos.

Tues. Sept. 11

One night past. Not so bad. Slept well. Read “Mrs. Wiggs” tonight. Making record envelopes. The phono looks so nice on its beautiful cabinet. Raymond did so nicely. Somali case at Narok. D.C. here fined him 9 mos.

Wed. Sept. 12

Herman had bad headaches yesterday. Sowed peas. Picked strawberries. Wanjeri off for corn harvesting. Prayermtg. this P.M. At Robin letter.

Thur. Sept. 13

Do wonder if they'll be in by tomorrow night this time. Soibi led prayermeeting tonight. Boys filling up front walk with gravel. R. stript front windows.

Fri. Sept. 14

They got in about 5:20. Very tired but glad to get here. Baby Ruth Marie is too tired to be happy. Harry Daniel promises to be interesting. Much like Bobby K. Seem very nice sensible people.

Sat. Sept. 15

Baked most everything yesterday so every one sitting around today. J's feet very sore. Took lunch back at river. Ruth Marie quite happy today. Harry D. very active. Mr S. is farmer & very interested in all irrigation schemes.

Sun. Sept. 16

Meetings as usual. Otherwise quiet day. Mr. S. took picture of S.S. Nice P.M. meeting. I fought headache all P.M. didn't go to meeting.

Mon. Sept. 17

Didn't wash as Breretons were to come to lunch. They did. They had hardly gone when Rainbows came. Mrs. & Billy asked to stay a few days while he takes Mrs. Lobo to Kijabe. They are in the tent. Mr S. is getting up stones for cook house.

Tues. Sept. 18

Washed. Mr. R. came ab't 9. Mrs. Shaffer plays violin lovely & Jno accompanies her. It's very pretty. Accomplish very little these days but eats. We are 11 at the tables.

Wed. Sept. 19

Boys went with Mulungit to get cart. Mrs B. gave them big tea. Men are working at getting spring cleared & hoping to bring it around hill. The one at head of little stream- dug up a lot of snake eggs & ran across snake too but didn't get it. Tried burning it.

Thur. Sept. 20

Men at ditch. Still looking for snakes. Killed a little one. Prayermtg tonight.

Fri. Sept. 21

Got off for Breretons in good time. Mrs Rainbow & Billy staid here. Had very nice time but returned too late & got rained on. All tired.

Sat. Sept. 22

Baked bread & cookies, pie & short cake. Mr Rainbow hasn't come yet. Hope they get off before we leave. We have decided to go on Mon.

Sun. Sept. 23

Too many people to be really quiet but had a fairly good day & still no Mr. R. All mtgs as usual.

Mon. Sept. 24

Mr. Brereton called. Packed- & got off by 2 P.M. Took tent so Mrs. R & Billy slept in library. Got to Ndulele in good time. Lovely moonlight & big camp fire. None got very tired as all took turns riding.

Tues. Sept. 25

Got to Quarantine about 4 P.M. Stopt under the two trees for lunch. Mr. P. didn't meet us here but sent 2 men & a donkey & said he'd meet the boys next day. We take lower road so they'll proceed with the porters- taking turns on the donkey.

Wed. Sept. 26

A damper was put on our good time when we lost the tent this morning. Jno & R. rushed back to find it but it must have been picked up. We camp beside the road. Will put up a big blanket. Lovely road so far. Made good time. Probsts went on this morning & by this time are home no doubt.

Thur. Sept. 27 Ngong

Got in about 2:30. Had tea near the dukas & then drove over to school. Are living in school building. Have seen most all the boys & many have brot food & wood. This is a pretty place. Largest spring I've ever seen where we get our water. Kariuki & family are well. Sammy has a beautiful house.

Fri. Sept. 28

Took Kamau along to Nairobi to stay with mules while we went shopping. Got most everything. Had ice cream too. Saw Mrs Bailey also A.K. Davises. Got back just at dark. Lovely roads & we covered the 12 miles in good time. Jno seems most tired.

Sat. Sept. 29

Had written Dr. Blakeslee to know if we could come she said yes. Miss Newman was there. Had a lovely big tea & saw her work. She seems to be doing fine. Weaving rugs & basket making- all sorts- keeps the 9 girls busy. We walked both ways 1 ½ hrs each.

Sun. Sept. 30

A year ago today father S. was buried. Jno spoke at A.M. meeting. This eve we sang & prayed together. They have a number of new songs that we haven't. Milk & eggs every eve from Kaurai.

So far we have had a very pleasant time. Dr. Blakeslee seemed glad to see us & we enjoyed the PM much & every day only we are sorry about the tent. Jno says he thinks it will be at Aggetts when we get back. R. wanted to fish here but has found none yet.

Mon. Oct. 1

Got a fair start & after about 14 miles- just past the guide post we ate our lunch. My head felt bum & got worse. Camped at stream & were going to have a lovely bath but a big black snake scared us all out & we are camped in the bush away from the water. Not far from G. Williams.

Tues. Oct. 2

Got up to R.V.A. about 11. Had lunch there & then settled for the night in Leasures. Jno got the stove off right away as Shaffers things are ready to go. Shall not need to stay over tomorrow as the Board has already met. Thot Mr. Kehrem was coming but he's busy so can't now. R. got a big bunch of stamps.

Wed. Oct. 3

We hustled & got things together- finally got off with a pretty big load. Stopt at foot of hill for a bit of tea but no water so Jno went back where water comes out of ground. As we went to Q saw a big rain behind & had been one before but we past in the dry – just a sprinkle. Got to Quarantine by 5 P.M.

Thur. Oct. 4

Left Q. at 6:20. Stopt at foot of Mau also at first stream. Here by 4 P.M. Shaffers have the walls almost finished to a huge cook house. My it is good to be home again. Wanjikus brother came along. He wants to stay but we are told there's a big shauri on & all Kikuyu must clear out.

Fri. Oct. 5

Had bad head most P.M. Unpacking & putting things away & correcting my copy of Arith so I can send Mr Blaikies back to him. Wrote boys & Mr Gabbott- sent cheque Jno wrote Mr Hurlburt & Kendall. Getting timbers for Shaffer cook house. Huge thing.

Sat. Oct. 6

And in this eve mail we had word that Mother S. went home Sun. eve Aug. 12. so she is celebrating in heaven with Father, Merle, Florence & many others. She would be 71 today. Many letters. Not all read yet. Jno is taking out the loneliness by a long play on the organ. Sorted Miss S's stuff. Much we can use & much trash.

Sun. Oct. 7

Meetings as usual. except P.M. meeting when the wagons of Shaffers goods came. Course it had to be looked at a little bit. Leasures stove came. Some of the lining is missing. They had a big pig on & he upset the box of pieces. Guess we can use it anyway.

Mon. Oct. 8

Wanjeri did huge wash. I baked bread. Mulungit killed beef. This eve we set up the stove. Looks fine hope it will work as well. Breretons & dixons may come tomorrow for tea. Was in school most A.M. Have teachers class P.M. Mon. Wed. Fri. & sewing other days. Had first language class today.

Tues. Oct. 9

Breretons & Dixons did not come as D's car is broken. Had sewing class- or rather “ripping” for that's all we did. Mostly Miss Simpsons old stuff. No class tonight. S. still unpacking.

Wed. Oct. 10    FMS letter

Mrs. S. took Teachers class this P.M. Mr. S. hadn't studied so John kept him at it for an extra half hour. Set trap for leopard. Started letter to mama. Mending this P.M. Washed new khaki goods.

Thur. Oct. 11

Nothing came in the trap. Sewing & prayermtg for women & evening prayerm't'g. Started letter to Mrs Downing.

Fri. Oct. 12

Shaffers got their own supper. School & classes as usual. Hope next week to get in an hour for Bible too. Music tonight. Worked at home letter but didn't get it finished.

Sat. Oct. 13

I seemed to know Rainbows were coming so was not so terribly surprised when they came in abt 4:30. Staid to supper. Slippers came- pretty good fit. Some home letters. Jno has a lovely bound Masai New Testament.

Sun. Oct. 14

Rainbows to breakfast then she roasted leg of mutton. They hung around til 11:30. We had all meetings as usual.

Mon. Oct. 15 rain

Mr. Bailey turned up about 2 P.M. had tea here then went on. he is out shooting with Mr Randall. Jno went to ditch but isn't worth much today. Has no strength.

Tues. Oct. 16

R's past on way to Kijabe taking Billy to school. 10 yrs. ago today we got back from Dungu. Writing letters getting things ready for tomorrow. Breretons are coming for lunch. Wanjeri has finished washing & ironing quickly as there was so little.

Wed. Oct. 17

Got off in good time taking Mr Shaffer along. Got all papers fixed up tho had to wait for Mr. Hoskins so we got here rather late for lunch.
Breretons were here & are coming every Sat. for language lessons. Parcel with R's suit came from Wards.

Thurs. Oct. 18

In school most all day. Sewing & prayermtg this P.M. Mr. S & Jno at the ditch. Prayermtg this eve. We are enjoying the bananas & fruit from the box.

Fri. Oct. 19

School all A.M. Sewing P.M. Music this eve. Prayer day meet. at 4. Wrote Aunt Annie. Washed hair. Expect Breretons tomorrow.

Sat. Oct. 20

Breretons came abt 10:30. Had work pretty well done. They had some language before lunch & more afterward. Expect to come next Sat. again. They have a pretty good vocabulary. Other parcel at office.

Sun. Oct. 21

Quiet day. Oltetia went to Kjb so sent R's suit in. Meetings as usual. Walk this eve. Such a lot to dispensary. Can't get Jno to begin Daily Bible & prayer. Always wants to wait or put it off. I can't understand.

Mon. Oct. 22

Soaking rain. Wanjeri washed but finished early. Everything as usual. Ab't 5 P.M. started to rain & is at it yet. Just as we finished supper note came from Mr. Macintosh for milk. Asked him up & he stays all night as its raining.

Tues. Oct. 23

Kept up raining all night & part A.M. but Jno went to ditch ab't 9. Mr. Mac. went on to Narok. Ab't 10:30 Rainbows came & made tea & boiled eggs “borrowed” bread. Case is at 1 P.M. Ab't selling land with mill.

Wed. Oct. 24

Mr. Macintosh was here when we woke up. Staid all night. Short cake for supper. Played croquet. Had a bit of phono this eve. Had bad head this P.M. Took asperin- better tonight.

Thur. Oct. 25

Mr. Mac left in fairly good time. Sewing & prayermtg this P.M. & also this eve. I spoke very harshly to Jno before Mr. S. so I wasn't comfy til I apologized.

Fri. Oct. 26

Today I went along with Jno to ditch as I felt I needed to get away a bit & they could get on without me in school. No music tonight Mrs S. too tired. Wrote Bertha G. and Miss Rogers.

Sat. Oct. 27

B's came as expected. Had very long lesson. Short cake for dinner. Letter from Albert telling just what each one has. Jnos is $2,300. We are so grateful for it. Sat on veranda til late.

Sun. Oct. 28

Course now we do talk & think. Would like to set time for going but it's hard to know just when would be best. Services all as usual. Lots out this morning.

Mon. Oct. 29

Everything as usual. Threatened headache. Jno at ditch. Shaffers still hauling down trees but they are very unsettled as to what they want to do. Wanjeri washed.

Tues. Oct. 30

Wanjeri ironed. Big shauri about Soibi & his garden. Called meeting tonight. Settled against him & he has threatened to move. Wrote a number of letters. Got several today.

Wed. Oct. 31

Soibi told me all his troubles this morning & finally talked with Jno this P.M. He wants nothing to do with Mulungit. Guess he will stay tho as he only wanted to move to Ngosor. That wouldn't help matters.

It has seemed a long - - - - time since children left yet the month has gone quickly. Jno has been busy reading up trip home thro Switzerland. Now he thinks we better go via the Pacific & land & live in Cal. Next month may be other plans.

Thur. Nov. 1

Everything as usual. Jno didn't go to the ditch but staid & wrote letters. Sewing class & prayermtg afterward – also this eve. Getting a number of Xmas letters written.

Fri. Nov. 2

Thot I'd get a lot done today of writing & sewing but altho I was busy all the time I accomplished little. Music this eve. and finished letters for tomorrow. Things from Kjb came. R. sent them last Sat.

Sat. Nov. 3

Left for Breretons about 9:30. Got there 10:30. Took a Chinese linen cross stitch for gift as tomorrow is their wedding aniversary- 7^th. He had to leave right after lunch. Didn't have very long class. Had very nice time. Shaffers put rock roofing all on. Still working at 7:30.

Sun. Nov. 4

Quiet day. Nothing unusual. Meetings as always. Took walk up the road. Ate supper here in house as it was too cold outside.

Mon. Nov. 5

Wanjiku killed ox. We took leg- 50 lbs. Seems very nice. Feel strange- sort o' bum. Did Azo printing tonight. Harry D. started coming over in the dark. School as usual.

Tues. Nov. 6

Mail – but none from Congo. N.E. & T. cheque but only 77%. Don't know if we can make it up or not. Sewing this P.M. Men working at slabs for chick house. rock roofing to cover.

Wed. Nov. 7

Tried to rain yesterday but didn't amount to much. Wrote home letters. Jno to Emil. Bag of flour & one of sugar came today. Still working at chicken house. Kashisha baked real nice bread today. The first real good he has had since working for them.

Thur. Nov. 8

My busy day. but enjoyed it all. Everything as usual. Took tea out to the chicken house. Not done yet but getting on. 'Twould have been much quicker & better of stones.

Fri. Nov. 9

This P.M. Rainbows rolled up. Brot 2 guineas. Staid to supper. Had music of all kinds. I wrote boys & Della. Did up work & baths ready for Breretons tomorrow.

Sat. Nov. 10

This morn at 10 a letter came from Mrs. B. saying he is not well enough so they wont come. Rainbows left about 11. Funny sort of a day. Every body sort of knocked out. Headache. Word came today all Kikuyu must go. Eskari comes on Mon.

Sun. Nov. 11

Quiet day but every body worked up because of orders. Guess the bunch will go over early in the morning. They fear if an eskari comes he will burn the huts.

Mon. Nov. 12

Upset & blue Mon. for today. Boys went. Workmen Wanjeri, Kibosha & Irongu can stay & work but no gardens. Shonga & Enaisho go to Masagondi for permission. Did own work today & taught English.

Tues. Nov. 13

Boys came to do work but they don't want to stay. Don't like to break in a new boy but if Wanjeri wants to go, I must get one started at once. Letter from children & China. Sewing class. No dinner headache.

Wed. Nov. 14

Notice of parcel said must be opened there so Jno went to see abt some Kikuyu matters too. Also Mr S. then they went to Breretons for lunch. Bro't Aunt A's parcel of kerchiefs & tan cap & thimbles etc.

Thur. Nov. 15

Busy day. Women were rather tearful & I had bad head so only told 'em what we wanted to do. Will really start with Gospel Jno next Thurs. Guess Keheriko bunch come tomorrow.

Fri. Nov. 16

Most all gone who are going. Some others M. thinks ought to go. Munye & Enaisho asked for huts & Jno gave permission against Mulungits decision. He didn't know M. had refused. Prayer day- had ours at 2.

Sat. Nov. 17

Breretons came rather early. Nothing much to do & I didn't do anything but tonight we printed pictures. A number of duds.

Sun. Nov. 18

As usual. Jno feeling quite bum today. Meetings as usual.

Mon. Nov. 19

Enoch came up & said Jno must come at once & settle things as M. had been threatened. Had shauri all AM in school house. Jno has giving out of gardens & huts that have been left.

Tues. Nov. 20

Wanjeri & Soibi went to Narok yesterday P.M. Back this eve. Kibosha helpt in Kitchen as his foot is bad. Work as usual. few local letters. Childrens came on Sat.

Wed. Nov. 21

And now for quite a while Mother has been with him. [father] Every year records a few more over there. Such a lot of bad colds. We did not rest well last night.

Thur. Nov. 22

Full day- but all went fairly well. I feel punk but got on alright. Started with study of St Johns Gospel. Hope we can go right thro with it. Soibi has trouble. Wants his garden enlarged.

Fri. Nov. 23

Almost stopt school because so many are almost sick with colds. Baths this eve & then tennis after supper. Wrote Ethel & Uncle Dan.

Sat. Nov. 24

Picked strawberries first thing. Breretons came ab't 10. Asked them to come Thur. next for Thanksgiving. Then we are to go there the next week. Not much mail. Mr. S. put up some logs of house.

Sun. Nov. 25

Everything as usual. Am feeling very bum. Cough some in night. Head is bad. Seems to hang on so. guess it is “flu” very mild.

Mon. Nov. 26

At work again but its hard. Bad head & throat. Still much coughing at school. The “boy” division of the tribe have gone to the bush & today some tried to get an ox from our herd. didn't succeed & one boy narrowly escaped being shot with arrow.

Tues. Nov. 27

Found the boys did get two cows. one Mulungits & one Tamenos. Jno sent word & at once eskaris came & tomorrow they will hunt thro the bush around here.

Wed. Nov. 28

Getting ready for tomorrow. Had sewing & prayermtg & evening meeting so we have tomorrow entirely free. Killed sheep yesterday bot from Parkeya.

Thur. Nov. 29 Thanksgiving

Put up flags & bunting & gathered flowers. Such lovely roses. Breretons came at noon. Had raisin pie & cocoanut custard. Mrs S. made jello for P.M. tea. Very nice. Mr S. worked at house.

Fri. Nov. 30

Mr. S. announces he has finished with the walls. J. helpt a bit today. My cough seems worse than ever. Just hangs on so. Can't keep in mind what day it is. Enock announced he was not teaching any more.

It seems Soibi has been tormenting both Enoch & Mulungit about gardens etc. M- doesn't care but E. is sore. I shall see if I can't persuade him to keep on til end of term.

Sat. Dec. 1

Some home mail. Naivasha man put butter in bag & things were soaked. Some pretty papers Aunt Lorene sent are wholly spoiled. Picked & canned strawberries. Jno at stones this A.M.

Sun. Dec. 2

All as usual. Not many out. Enock not out all day. M- tried to poison some monkeys yesterday but none seem to have died. Mr. S. trying to trap hyenas.

Mon. Dec. 3

Talked with Enock this morning & persuaded him to keep on with work til Xmas. Last week a big Momba frightened Jno as he was walking along his path in the woods. Seem to be so many around lately. Finished letter to robins.

Tues. Dec. 4

Letters from Congo. Small cheque. Mr. Hurlburt been very ill. Andersens wont come for Xmas. Jno at ditch. Fire blew into pile of clothes yesterday & badly burned the khakis & 2 pr of my stockings.

Wed. Dec. 5

Jno wrote Mr. Gardiner. Notice came for all tax delinquents to get money in by Tues. or fine. They are now fined Sh 6. We wont get many Xmas things with what money we have. Fortunately we don't need many. Am glad we can all be here & not like last year. [At Kijabe due to trouble with Masai warriors.]

Thur. Dec. 6

Olduboi killed ox. Mrs. B. sent over for some but didn't say how much so sent one piece. We expect to go over tomorrow. Have arranged school work. Wanted to come to Masai class so put Bible lesson on board & let them have their meeting.

Fri. Dec. 7

Got off in fair time. Enjoyed the walk so much. Tea then lunch & rest & knit & talk. It is nice. P.M. tea & then a stroll to the river. Dinner & then we looked at Kodak pictures til after 10. Bath & bed in tent.

Sat. Dec. 8

Up for 8 oclock breakfast. Then saw drills. Tea & language then lunch & more language & plans for Xmas etc. Tea & then came on. I knit a lot & it was all so enjoyable & restful.

Sun. Dec. 9

Boys letter yesterday says school out Wed. Program Wed. eve. Mr S. wants to leave on Thurs. Munye says M & Enoch now say he killed Tagi. M. says its false- but there will need to be shauri about it all.

Mon. Dec. 10

Mr. Macintosh passed yesterday. Stopt for lunch. Rainbow sale today. Expected him back but didn't come. Mrs. S. played awhile. Rained a bit. Wrote G.W. life. Note to Mrs Gabbott.

Tues. Dec. 11

Mr. Macintosh came but not Mr. Brereton tho he & Mr Horne were at the bridge. Shauri this morning about Munyi's accusation. Turned out to be nothing at all. No school. but sewing. Making chains for Xmas decorations. Mr. Mac will stay & go with Mr. Shaffer on Thurs.

Wed. Dec. 12

Mr. Mac & Jno worked at tennis court. Busy all day & eve getting things together for Kjb. Made candy for Claudon and got a few things together for Mrs Gabbott. Wrote several letters. To bed at 11 & they want to start early.

Thurs. Dec. 13

Got off by 7. I awoke at 4 & didn't sleep again. Rained & hailed while in sewing class. Papers got wet. Mrs Ndilai sews at dress the rest were at papers of all colors. Prayermtg tonight.

Fri. Dec. 14

Suppose by next week this time the boys will be in. They have my letter by now Mrs S. got on alright last night. Baby doesn't cough quite so much. Mended & fixed song books.

Sat. Dec. 15

Breretons both came tho she had thot she wouldn't. Had a chart lesson & will have no more now. Jno worked at court til they came. Then bathed. I too. Walked part way with them. Letter from boys.

Sun. Dec. 16

Nice quiet day. Jno did not sleep much last night so slept most P.M. Has sort of rash all over his body that itches. Had no PM meeting. Ate seperate supper.

Mon. Dec. 17

Suppose Mr S. went to Nrb. I've been thinking & praying much ab't Enoch. That he'd be willing to do his part for Xmas. This morn. he not only willingly did what I asked but came with translation of “Onward Xian Soldiers” & sang it & is real interested in everything again. Praise God for it.

Tues. Dec. 18

Drilling at verses & song. Everyone seems to be getting filled up with the Xmas spirit. So very thankful for cheque this eve. 80%. A reg. letter is at office. Worked at Xmas things.

Wed. Dec. 19

This is the night of the program. How I wish I could be there. 'Tis nice to think they will soon be here. Mrs. S. sewed caps for girls. Have almost enuf. Singing “Onward Christian Soldiers” all the time & everywhere.

Thur. Dec. 20

One never knows what a day may bring forth. When we came out of prayermtg here were the boys & Mr S. Had come from Kjb today. Poor mules! The boys look fine & report a good time last night. Hr. D. has been fussy & ill all day.

Fri. Dec. 21

So nice to have the boys here again. They & Mr. S. are sitting up a tree. watching for buck. Finished school today. Glad too tho I wish it was next week this time. Meat from Breretons & from the kraal. Busy fixing things. Mr. S. brot no dates.

Sat. Dec. 22

Baked cookies. R. helpt. Saw nothing at all last night. Shaffers have said they wont try camping. Neither of the children are at all well.

Sun. Dec. 23

Quiet day. Services as usual. Tried the marching a bit tonight. Mr. S. plays the cornett. Mrs. S. played violin for S.S. songs. Goes very nice.

Mon. Dec. 24

Baked pies & killed chickens. School boys came. Mrs. B. is ill so they'll not come til tomorrow. M. took cart over. Program went fine. Marching was beautiful. School room lookt so pretty such a pretty tree. & the lanterns were so pretty too.

Tues. Dec. 25

Early morn. meeting. Then lookt at our trees & the pretties then breakfast. Mr. B. came abt 10 then games began. She not well enuf. Opened gifts after lunch. Mrs B gave me Nubian basket. & Jno a Thermos. Boys a tin of candy. C. made me a towel rack. R made 2 lovely picture frames round.

Wed. Dec. 26

All rather tired. Mr. S. cutting trees for boards. Had lunch in the woods. Getting things together to go to Mara River, just we 4. Very black out that way tonight. Letters – Kendalls leave for Eng. soon.

Thur. Dec. 27

Got off by 8. Stopt at Breretons & Boma. Got license pd tax. Stopt to lunch after we got up on hill & Rainbows came. Tea'd with us. Mr. Webb was with 'em & told us to go to his extra house to sleep. It rained a bit. R. has pretty high fever & sore throat. C. has bad head. Rather bad beginning. R shot 2 guineas. Saw impala & lots of game. Stormed hard toward salt swamp.

Fri. Dec. 28

On to Lemik. Talked & thot a lot about Gabbotts & Tagi, who were with us last year. R's boils 4 near together trouble some. Still sore throat & headache. C. is alright today. Big camp among Acacias. Took 4 hrs of driving from Salt Swamp & 6 from Ngiro. Hope to get on tomorrow. Some water in road so mules had plenty.

Sat. Dec. 29

Came on to the Mara- about 4 ½ hrs. of travel. Enjoyed it all. Quite a plain road now. No wandering around. Pitched tent under same tree we were when Gabbotts were with us. Heard gun shots this eve. Must be some one camped near here. Boys went right at fishing. Got enuf for a taste for supper. Sent Kibosha for milk. He's staying all night.

Sun. Dec. 30

Went for a long walk down river. Saw where elephants had been recently. Saw a tent too. Don't know who it is. Followed up river looking for the bend but we didn't find any. Raymond wanted to try but we thot best not to let him. Hope we'll get a lot tomorrow.

Mon. Dec. 31

R. caught 2 fish for breakfast. This P.M. we caught a plenty for supper. But we are not getting the larger ones. Don't know why. Finished the stockings I was at. Several wagons past both ways. The last of 1923. God has been good to us. Many are spending the night in prayer. What has 1924 for us.

Trips made by cart purchased Oct. 1, 1922.

1922

Oct. 7. Jno from Kijabe. Ned & Nance

Oct. 11-23. Trip to mines – 98 miles.

Oct. 25. Muragi to Kijabe for Kendalls.

Dec. 1. Kendalls returned to Kjb.

Dec. 8. We all to Kjb. (Masai trouble)

Dec. 26-Jan. 1. We all around Lake Naivasha. Ab't 100 miles til we got back.

1923

Jan. 15-24. Home from Kjb. Stopt & took down Hoyers camp.

Apr. 13-16. To Kjb to get boys. Hoyts also.

May 15-30. Kjb taking children. Brot Dr. D.

June 25-July 5. Jno took Mrs. D. home. Dr. staid here. Jno returned with Rainbows Tagi brot cart.

July 26-28. Jno & I to Quarantine to get Miss Rogers. On way back heard of Tagis fatal accident.

Aug. To pond Ndulele with Breretons.

Sept. 1. Mulungit took Miss Rogers & returned with children Kijabe.

Sept. 10. Jno to Kijabe to get Shaffers.

Sept. 24-Oct. 4. To Nairobi & back via Kijabe. Left children in school.

Dec. 14. Mr. Shaffer to Kjb. to get boys. Came back in one day.

Dec. 26-Jan. 4. To the lower Mara bridge. Our family.

Trips of buckboard.

1922

Jan. 2-6. Kijabe. Mr H. & children. Ned & Jinger.

Jan. 19-Feb. 4. Kijabe. Jno & I. Conference. To Narok twice. Ned & Jinger.

Feb. 16-22. Kijabe. Mr. Rainbow. Ned & Jinger & his two mules.

Feb. 24. To Ngiro. Mr & Mrs Rainbow. Ned & their 3 mules.

Mar. 7-11. To Sotik. Mr & Mrs Rainbow. Ned & their 3 mules.

Mar. 12. To Kjb to get Jno back.

Apr. 10. To Kjb to get children. Ned & Jinger. Traded Ginger for Goyagoya.

Apr. 22. To Sotik with Rainbows 2.

Apr. 26-May 2. Kjb. Mr. R. & Billy- bringing Mr. Herdman back.

May 15. Kjb. Jno & Mr. Herdman. Tagi driver.

May 22. Kjb. The children & I. Tagi driver. Ned & Goyagoya & Rainbows 2.

June 5. To Lime spring camp. Goyagoya died on way home.

June 17. Kjb. Mr. Rainbow. Ned & his three.

June 28. Kjb. Tagi taking Leasures.

July 4. Mr. Rainbow went toward mines 60 miles.

Aug. 1. Mr. Rainbow to Sotik.

Aug. 17. Tagi to Kjb. We with Barnetts in Ford.

Sept. 8. Tagi to Kjb. to get Gabbotts.

Oct. 11-23. To Mines G & me.

Oct. 25. To Kjb. To take Gabbotts back & stays in exchange for cart.

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