Florence Minch Stauffacher Diary – 1931.                                                                                Index

[Inscription:] “A Merry Christmas to Florence, from Lora. 1926.”

“Be not amazed at life,
     ‘Tis always been the mode of God,
with His elect,
Their hopes exactly to fulfill,
In times & ways they least expect.”

             From Mrs Guither

[From clippings:]

     MY NEW YEAR PRAYER.

Dear Master, for this coming year
     Just one request I bring;
I do not pray for happiness
     Or any earthly thing;
I do not ask to understand
     The way thou leadest me,
But this I ask: “Teach me to do
     The thing that pleaseth thee.”

A quiet lot in life is mine,
     Made up of little things;
Teach me to do as unto thee
     The duties each day brings,
Faithful in that which is the least
     Dear Master, I would be,
Thus making all my daily work
     “The thing that pleaseth thee.”

I want to please thee through this year
     In every word I say.
Dear Master, take these lips of mine
     And keep them day by day
From foolish talking, angry words,
     And evil-speaking free:
Teach me, that I may ever speak
     “The thing that pleaseth thee.”

Not only what to do and say
     Would I be daily taught;
I ask thee so to cleanse my heart
     And purify each thought
That every thought and every wish
     May pure and holy be.
I want in everything to be
     “The thing that pleaseth thee.”

I want to know thy guiding voice,
     To walk with thee each day,
Dear Master, make me swift to hear
     And ready to obey;
And thus the year I now begin
     A happy year will be,
If I am seeking just to do
     “The thing that pleaseth thee.”
                               - Unidentified.

[and probably from “Daily Light”]

         Morning.
I will go in the strength of the Lord.
                                        Ps. 71. 16.

Thur. Jan. 1

And now we have started in the new year. Where will it end? It can’t be much more disappointing than this year has been. We do hope & pray God will pour out His spirit upon us & the church. May we walk so close to Him that we wont once miss the way. I will go in the strength of the Lord. Lora says she will send me a diary.

Fri. Jan. 2

Seems hard to remember to write 31. Jno was up quite awhile this morning but so windy this P.M. Kariuki called & had quite a long chat with him. I wrote Aunts L & A. Dr was called to Naivasha. Mr Probst took him & Mrs D & Phil went too. Supper at 8:30.

Sat. Jan. 3

Mr. Skoda not well at all this morn but better this eve. Jno dressed properly & ate dinner & supper at table. Dr. read a negro story from one of their books. I’ll bet Shaffers wish it was tomorrow night. Paper says their boat is bringing lots of mail. Yesterday morning saw a crowd singing & dancing down across R.R. circumcision ceremony.

Sun. Jan. 4

Lovely quiet day. Nice walk this morn. Meeting here at 4. Jno up all day. Mr Skoda had little or no temp today. Pancakes & sausage for break. Every one enjoyed them. Wrote Mrs Cook.

Mon. Jan. 5

Skoda up after break. J. cleaned the organ. I baked pie. Farnsworths here for supper. We got a nice mail - but think it went to Narok. This fellow is so dumb. Telegram from Shaffers. Mr Probst meets them in Nairobi tomorrow. Mrs Davis is going down on the train back on Wed.

Tues. Jan. 6

Shaffers came- also Miss Mathys. Ss look well. Course the children have grown. We fixed up Ind. House for them camp beds & dishes etc etc. Jno didn’t go to Probsts but Mr.S. came to see him after their supper at Probsts. Mrs. Davis saw them in Nairobi.

Wed. Jan. 7

We spent most all AM at Shaffers. He led P.M. meeting. Mrs Davis came back this P.M. Mrs. Downing wants us to come over there. Don’t know what we’ll do. Farnsworths are going to Nairobi in the morning & want me to look after work at school. Skoda goes too & Shaffer. Letter from Boys.

Thur. Jan. 8

Got up with bad head but went to R.V.A. 3 times & jammed all the plums Mrs Hodson sent & canned peaches for Conf & made pineapple & peach jam. All so good. Put into Mrs Davises cans. Will go to Mrs Downings for the day tomorrow. Shaffer didn’t get back. Don’t know if Farnsworths did.

Fri. Jan. 9

Yes, Shaffer did get back & F’s too. Spent day at D’s. A very pleasant time. I worked at altering a blue silk jersey dress Miss Moody gave me. Didn’t get it quite all done before prayer meeting time. Spent a very pleasant evening around the fire I knitting & all talking.

Sat. Jan. 10

Canned more peaches. Jno not feeling well today. Ate peach cobbler last night & thinks thats it but don’t know. Shaffer got our check cashed. Tea at Teasdales & prayer mtg but we didn’t go.

Sun. Jan. 11

To Downings for breakfast then native service & to Downings for dinner. Saw our new organ at Shaffers. Jno told me today some of the things that have been circulated about Mr S. & because of that they are going out tomorrow & try to straighten things out with Clarke, McCready & Dawson & Roach. Its terrible how the enemy tries to upset & spoil our influence for good.

Mon. Jan. 12

Jno & Shaffer & Harry got away ab’t 8. I helpt a bit with wash. Went to Stevensons for tea & prayermtg. Boys came to sing - then Mrs Davis & I took Miss Mathys to Shaffers. Serenaded Stevensons first. Men took Miss Stumpfs sewing machine along out. I’ll pay when I can. Miss Perrott gave us Sh. 50/ toward a car!

Tues. Jan. 13

I finished fixing the blue dress Miss Moody gave me. and finished Willie’s sweater & started Mr. Hellers. Wanted to try a new pattern but decided to do the basket stitch. Mrs. Davis & I went to Miss Perrotts for tea then to Probsts for prayermtg then I went to Shaffers. Boys came again to sing. They took Miss Mathys down to S’s. Wonder how & where the men are.

Wed. Jan. 14

Men got back ab’t 6 P.M. Everything fixed up very satisfactorily. Mr. Clarke was very nice ab’t it all. I moved all our things to R.V.A. first thing after break. & helpt all A.M. & some in P.M. then went to prayer m’t’g. Mrs Shaffer led. Then with her for supper - so when men came we all ate there. & Davises came while we were talking.

Thur. Jan. 15

Miss Slater & Collins came. but C. stays with Dr Blakeslee. Worked at rooms all day. Have things in fair shape but there’s still plenty to do. Didn’t go to prayer mtg. Ate dinner at Davises. Started here for supper. Walked to Shaffers but didn’t stay late. John is very lame.

Fri. Jan. 16

Prayer day but every one had so much to do we had no services. The party came ab’t 4 P.M. Sherman family, Devitt, Wilson. Misses Love, Groat, Harris, Norton, Holman, Welty. Capens came for dinner. We’ve got some baking done and things in pretty good shape. Short a few beds but may make beds on floor. Seem like a nice bunch.

Sat. Jan. 17

Opening service of Conf. this eve. Testimony meeting & prayer. We are now 32 at table. More coming on Mon. & still more on Tues. During meeting this eve the chimney burned out again - its annual clean up. It’s an example to us. We too ought to clean out right at first, then the Lord could fill us. May He help us. I pray for humility. I’m so proud. God help me.

Sun. Jan. 18

Very nice day. Dad & I had a lovely walk & talk this morning. Mr Guilding gave such a good message Rom 12:1. We are 33 today. Mr Platt Bible Society man leaves early in morning. Congo ladies go with him to Nairobi & return by train. A few of us sat around fire & had a nice talk. Miss Slater had bad head & I too.

Mon. Jan. 19

Some others arrived so we are 44. More coming tomorrow. Mr. & Mrs. McIntosh called this eve. So glad to see them. They are coming for tea tomorrow. The talks were all so good today. Poor Mr. Downing came late for his & then couldn’t give Scripture he wanted. Both Mr Butcher & Mr Pittway were so fine. Innises came in new car. Brysons is sold.

Tues. Jan. 20

Rather hilarious time tonight. “Get acquainted” time. Wonder what the new workers thot. MacIntoshes came a bit late as it had rained. We came to our room & had a nice visit. They are planning on going around Kenya. Barnetts & others came today. B’s stay in Indian ward. Messages were very good.

Wed. Jan. 21

Yesterday Miss Hortons & Mrs Wepplers birthdays. Mrs Davis had made each a cup cake with a tiny candle on. Heard Mr B. better today as I sat in usual place. Always understand Mr Pittway. Both are very good. Mr Downing spoke today but I couldn’t stay as there seemed so much to do. We are around 60 now most meals.

Thur. Jan. 22

Mrs. Downing & Mrs. Teasdale had the tea today. Miss Slater is having it tomorrow. She baked 3 jelly rolls this P.M. Kept us busy with supper too Then womens mtg & now its 10 P.M. & lights should be out. It’s raining. hope it is at Syabei too. Ruth B. brot her new book for me to read “Under Whose Wings”.

Fri. Jan. 23

Another day full of good things. The things on exhibition were sold this P.M. I bot a few so have some ready for next years Xmas. I poured tea for Miss Slater. Prayer & praise mtg tonight but I helpt Miss S. Then bathed washed my hair & am good & ready for bed. Both messages were so good again.

Sat.* Jan. 24

Mr. Butcher gave another good talk then all the rest of the time was spent in business meeting til 4 P.M. tea at Dr Blakeslees. But Mrs. Barnett & some others & I went to Davises. Miss Slater served tea for Council. Jno & Shaffer Musical this eve was very good. Boys are getting tired & guess we all are. but it has been very pleasant.

Sun. Jan. 25

Last day of the feast. Mr Guilding took P.M. service & Mr Downing communion. Mr Butcher & Mr. Pitway & Downings & Teasdales here to supper. The closing meeting is on now. Barnetts wanted us to go to Nairobi with them tomorrow but their car is not acting right. Jno & Shaffer are going on the train & get his car. Ab’t 20 want early breakfast.

Mon. Jan. 26

Helpt Mrs. Farnsworth all day. After supper went to Shaffers to wait for men. They came ab’t 8. in the new car. Looks like it would hold some thing alright. Both men ate at R.V. A. as Mrs S. had no bread. We are going out tomorrow as the arrival of their goods is so uncertain. Then they’ll come back next wk. I’m very glad.

Tues. Jan. 27 Home

Finally got away from Kjb at 12. Got here ab’t 8. Truck pulls fine but slow, of course. It is nice to be back. Mrs. S. & babe up stairs for tonight & Mr & R.D. at their house. Mr. Clarke is here but leaves in the morning for Nairobi. Kuyoni is here on the job. Parmale will come tomorrow.

Wed. Jan. 28

S’s cleaned & unpacked their trunks & arranged themselves. I cleaned here somewhat and we unpacked M. Ward box. They are short one watch. but otherwise things are fine. I do hope we can get the living room fixed up soon now. Mrs S. played violin & then we had the phono. All went swimming.

Thur. Jan. 29

Got away ab’t 10 for the saw mill took lunch & ate under the trees. Men loaded quite a lot of shingles. Mrs S & I called on Mrs. Poole. She gave us all tea. Got home 6:30. too late for any thing but supper. Boys did a big washing & have all ready to iron. Every one tired & sleepy.

Fri. Jan. 30

Both boys ironed & I baked pie. Men went back for more boards. Got for Shaffers floor. Drove to Narok to see Mr Dawson & brot mail. The parcel of Korean cloth. Its very nice. Mrs B. will be pleased. Don’t like stockings very well too light. Acting Gov. got to Narok at 4 P.M. Sports tomorrow.

Sat. Jan. 31

Got up at 4 as men got 2 loads today. Jno staid. Mr. S. came for lunch. Mr Clarke came up while S was eating late & ate with him. K. finished ironing. I baked cookies & bread. Men got in by 7:30. Every one very tired. I have a bad head Mrs S thinks its sun. Perhaps.

One month already past- and it was a very full one. Glad all are not like it tho Conf was good & we heard many helpful things. Little did I dream when I began this book 5 yrs ago that there could possibly be such a disappointing close.

Sun. Feb. 1

Usual no. out to A.M. No P.M. but Mr S. showed pictures this eve to full house. Mulungit coughs awful & looks bad. Their baby died also Soibes. I didn’t know of either one. Nyakeiru is in Kijabe now. Gashisha has a 2^nd wife.

Mon. Feb. 2

School began. My class there - 5 boys & Wambui. Shaffers expect to go to Kijabe tomorrow. Wambogo teaches school. Poor Sitoya must rush off for more shauri ab’t Nolmusheni just when we want so much to go at school work hot & heavy. God help him to do just right.

Tues. Feb. 3

S’s left for Narok & if they heard their goods had come they were going on & they went on as a telegram was there for them. Parmale washed late. Sitoya is still coming to school. Hope he can continue. Wambui is with children A.M. but they pretty well have their own way. They went swimming at 11:30. R.D. is very burned. We sleep over there.

Wed. Feb. 4

I baked bread & ironed & the boys ironed some. Mr. C. was up to supper last night & we went there afterward for music. K. staid with children. Garden work. Lots of ironing to do yet. Grace gets very spunky. I’ll do nothing but try to keep them fed & clothed. R.D. was crying tonight for his back burned. Clarke & Aggetts called.

Thur. Feb. 5

Didn’t have sewing because of children. Now telegram came they wont be back til tomorrow. We had so hoped they’d be in today. Nice mail came. Jno had prayermtg so will read it when he returns. Boys ironed all P.M. So hot & windy these days. Threatens a bit but no rain.

Fri. Feb. 6

Ss got in ab’t 8. Had prayermtg very late. I waited an hour for the women. R.D. was with Jno burning brush & Grace went to mtg with me. They brot an awful load. Mrs is very tired & has headache.

Sat. Feb. 7

S’s unpacking. Got two parcels from Aunts L & A. S’s sure have lots of junk. J has been trying their records. Very good, most of them. We were over this eve & they played more. Baked a lot. R.Ds birthday cake & made jello. They still eat here, til Mon.

Sun. Feb. 8

Yes, I surely remember last year. [Controversy with elders over circumcision and church schism.] I fear the hearts haven’t changed much since then tho their attitude to us is not so bitter. Had communion & only 3 took tho J. said others could if they felt right before God. Soibi was there but didn’t take.

Mon. Feb. 9

Mr. S. took J to Narok. Dawson says they’ll be back the 28^th. They are settling now changing the kitchen a bit & eating out there. I eat here but will sleep there tonight. Have sent a small Ward order. told ‘em ab’t the watch they didn’t send & am asking them to send me one, among other things.

Tues. Feb. 10

Martha & Kapirori & Turia out to school but not Sitoya. Took all pictures down & pasted Americano where boards are. Hoped I could muresco tomorrow but cracks arent closed yet. Had bad headache all P.M. Just staid lying down. Ate outside at S’s. They have the floor down in kitchen which will be their dining room.

Wed. Feb. 11

Plastered up the cracks but as Mrs S wanted me to help her with selling clothes I didn’t do anything else. Didn’t help her much. Sewed at J’s swimming suit. Have sewing tomorrow. Ironed today. May ask Susana to take sewing as I do want to get the walls done in dining room. Am asking women to come Sat. for bedroom.

Thur.* Feb. 12

Susana took sewing class. Parmale & I got the wall all kalsonined & my, it does look nice. I’m so eager now to get at the bed room. Mr Shaffer has their kitchen floor ready for cement. I don’t like the dining room where they have it but they seem to. Mr S. said 27 to p.m. and such a lot are coming to school.

Fri. Feb. 13

Have bedroom dismantled & ready for lady plasterers tomorrow. Mr S. brot some clay but I doubt if its enuf. He’s so busy he didn’t come to p.m. this eve. Spose they’ll cook here tomorrow as the cement wont be dry. Started letter to the girls. Very tired. 3 out to p.m.

Sat. Feb. 14

11 women finally were at work. They got it all plastered but not very well smoothed off. I shall try to do that myself next week. Had rice & beans & tea & corn bread. All seemed satisfied. Mrs. S. has sold most all the clothing. Has an awful pile of wood on hand. and every chick & child has some new dud to put on. Bathed in small tub as bath room is plastered too. Smells like Kraal.

Sun. Feb. 15

Meetings A.M. as usual. Lots of children out to show pretty clothes. Mr S. & boys went to 2 kraals on plain this P.M. He is showing pictures tonight. Mrs S. & I didn’t go over. Mr S. says Mr Clarke has come home. Wrote 2 letters. Motion brot mail. He has taken a notion to do this of late. Don’t know why. Sprinkled a bit. Wonder how John spent the day.

Mon. Feb. 16

My how well I remember a year ago. [Mission meetings boycotted, Africans meeting separately.] Went to school. Parmale washed. Mr. S. went for boards brot two loads back at 10. Susana put clay on bedroom walls. Munye brot more up. Very tired tonight. I did a good bit of the plastering as S. didn’t come til 8.

Tues. Feb. 17

Mr. Shaffer brot Mr. & Mrs Poole along for the night. They went in swimming & after she came out she had several heart spells. She came to the table but didn’t eat much. They sleep up stairs. I set up a camp cot for him. Brot a load of nice lumber tonight. Susana finished plastering with clay.

Wed. Feb. 18

Mrs. Poole & Mrs S. came to school to look around. Left about 9. Mr. S didn’t get back til late as he sawed quite a bit. Washed over the whole wall with thickish clay water & brush. It looks smoother now. Bath room will be done tomorrow. Ironed too.

Thur. Feb. 19

Mr. S. came ab’t 2 P.M. bringing Mrs Poole. Mr P. had to go to Nairobi & she didn’t want to go. Mr S. took the lumber to Mr. Clarke. Got only one load today. He had prayer mtg tonight. I had sewing class. Plastered over bath room. Mrs P. sleeps up stairs so I sleep in my bed.

Fri. Feb. 20

This is the day Mr Aggett said rains would begin in Syriak country. Asked M. to come up to see me. I hear he is selling everything & going to Ngong. I’m sorry. Got some pictures hung & curtains. Parmale kalsomined the bath room & I painted the tub. It is nice now. Letter from Mrs D. saying Dr Miller would take tonsils out if I came. Cant now.

Sat. Feb. 21

Mixed Mrs S’s bread. Mrs P. & I have break. here. Susana came today & kalsomined the bed room. Parmale washed up all & now we feel quite clean. Asked Mr C. up to supper. All ate here & S. showed some pictures & Mrs. S. played. Had a pleasant eve. Didn’t get a tiny rest today so am tired. Mr S. brot us a last load.

Sun. Feb. 22

Mr. P. came as we came from S.S. They left ab’t 2:30. All ate lunch here & supper too. Mtgs as usual. Prayer letter tonight. A real heavy rain after P.M. mtg. M. came to talk but I couldn’t get him to tell me much but he agreed with me in most things. I’m trying it here tonight - by myself.

Mon. Feb. 23

Mr. S. worked some on road to Ndulele & didn’t come back so I sleep with her. I slept very well last night. Rainy this morning & again this eve. but most clothes go dry. Wrote Steeles & started boys. Passapartouted several pictures & worked at pink ruffles for curtains. Put up pictures in bedroom. & washed doors. Wouldn’t be surprised if J. would be in early because of rain.

Tues. Feb. 24

When I went to S’s last night found Mr S had come so came back. Don’t think he is in tonight tho. Nyakeiru called today so full of trouble. Mulungit sold everything & didn’t tell her. She doesn’t want to go to Ngong. M. is like possessed these days. More rain this P.M. & eve. Put up more pictures & worked at curtains. Wrote boys. No John yet.

Wed. Feb. 25

Busy at curtains & have the white all done & up. Will do wardrobe another day. Mr S. came in about 9. Spent last night on the road stuck. Is going back as owner comes tomorrow to sell all. Gave him a blank check to use. Am with Mrs S. tonight as he said he would not be back. Planted pop corn, peas, beans, carrots. Rained again this eve – hard.

Thur. Feb. 26

School & sewing class as usual. Mr. S came back & took prayer mtg for men - so I’m staying here. Have curtains all done in bed room & it does look so nice. Big home mail tonight from boys too. Kinanjui killed ox today. got some meat. Mr. S. has been getting rabbits. tho R. says no meat. it is so good. Only 1 more night alone.

Fri. Feb. 27

Roy David not feeling well so I took womens meeting. 15 out. Played organ for school boys tonight. Have washed my hair. Doesn’t look like Mr S. is coming so I’ll go over there to sleep. Sowed some flower seeds. No rain but very dark. Put curtains to dining cupbrd. Wonder if my daddy will be here tomorrow night.

Sat. Feb. 28

Sure enuf J. is here. Major Dawson drove in just ab’t 12. I had all cleaned up. bathed & dressed. & lunch ab’t ready. Par. went to Narok so I baked & had full sway in the kitchen. Mr. C. came in ab’t 4. J. went down & brot him to supper & then we went down for music. Mr S. came home ab’t 8. I am so tired.

It is so nice to have J. back again. but I can’t realize it yet. Course he was greatly pleased with the house. Major Dawson too thot it fine. I used bath tub for first time & its lovely. Didn’t rain any today. Thot I might have stained floor but J. came too early.

This mo. has gone fast. School is as well attended as before the trouble but that doesn’t say their hearts are changed. The elders are doing some nasty things especially about the sale of their girls. They’ll certainly have their reaping time.

Sun. Mar. 1

’Twas nice to have John on the job again. Were to have communion this P.M. but it was kinda rainy. S’s here to supper. Then he showed some Bible pictures over there & we had prayers. Sitoya wasn’t out to meeting.

Mon. Mar. 2

Mr. S. & Jno went to saw mill & brot mail too. Letter from Mrs. D. that Dr. Miller & daughter Barbara visiting at Kijabe may be out tomorrow or next day. & she with them. I’m so glad. Men had planned a camp at the saw mill this wk but can’t now. Got some mending done. not much.

Tues. Mar. 3

No one came today & Mr S. was too late for the office. He made 2 trips today & sleeps there tonight. Mrs S stays alone. Wambui is having trouble. Her father is selling her to Njuguna as a second wife, & she wont. Mrs. S. wants to help protect her if necessary.

Wed. Mar. 4

I tried to get ironing done but such a lot of interruptions & then the folks came just at noon. Mr. Farnsworth brot Dr. Miller & Barbara but not Mrs. D. She was so busy with sewing - as she & B. leave for Congo in 2 wks - & then on home.

Thur. Mar. 5

They planned a trip to Ollolonga. I tried to get out of it but they all insisted. Took lunch & 2 boys. Quite a load. All went well & we were coming home but they kept stopping to shoot so got into hard rain just before Narok & another about 2 mi. out. It poured. All very tired. My head is very achey - but we ate fried chicken for supper.

Fri. Mar. 6

Dr. M. lookt into my throat but says its alright. No need for tonsils out. They finally got away ab’t 8:30. Miss M. slept at Shaffers as Mr. S. was supposed to be away Wed. night but he came in ab’t midnight so put up a cot. Excitement here because of drunk elders threat to imprison Sitoya. Wambui is sold too & begs to be protected.

Sat. Mar. 7

John put mop boards in dining room. Now will kalsomine where we’ve plastered above them then it will look so nice. Sitoya called. but doesn’t seem distressed ab’t things. I am troubled because he doesn’t come to school. nor church. Awful heavy rain tonight. Milaun went for mail. Nice letter from boys & one from office saying they sent $105. Parcel notice ab’t C’s picture. Hope to get it MON. Wonder from what they pd. M. Ward bill.

Sun.* Mar. 8

Had communion. Soibi & Kariuki took. I’m agreed to K. but I fear S. will only make trouble as he stands with Asso in all but drinks. Ate supper at S’s had a Chap. from Philip. by Ironside then music. My how it poured at dark. Mr. S got in so late last night - but goes again tomorrow.

Mon. Mar. 9

Waweru came & wanted work so took him on to help with extras like garden or yard or dishes when P. has washing. C’s picture came. A beauty Yosemite Falls in oil - his first oil work. It’s very good, we think. John sick in night and all day but went to road with the men when they came. Mr S. not back yet. Worked at maps for school.

Tues. Mar. 10

Mr S. got back late last night. They are expecting to leave tomorrow for some place. not sure if they should go to Ollolonga or Kajiado. Came over this eve & settled accounts and talked & prayed ab’t the work. Wambui wants to go with them as her father is accepting the dowry from Njaguna.

Wed. Mar. 11

Shaffers got off ab’t noon. Had breakfast & hi tea here. John got back from work on road in time for lunch. Wambui went along. Mr. C. came last eve so had supper here tonight & we went down there for music. No rain today. John cleaned the walks. Look nice. Roy D. shot off the gun - almost hit Mr. S.

Thur. Mar. 12

School & classes as usual. Mr. Clarke left again. Sent up lots of vegetables. John working in the garden today - but gets so stiff. Had prayer mtg tonight. Ngomaiyu came & asked him where Shaffers went. No rain - but wind. Sitoya says these elders are having his case up tomorrow. Want to fine him Sh. 200.

Fri. Mar. 13

Mbaie came & asked ab’t Wambui. I told him what I knew & said she wanted to go. Seven women out today - just the good earnest ones. Wrote Mrs. Keller. Do want to get that sweater done soon. No rain. but wind. S. was at school so I guess there was no shauri.

Sat. Mar. 14

Baked. Parmale washed rooms then went to garden. Waweru wants to be helpful but is very slow in picking up things. Sees nothing. I mean observes little. John tried fishing but no success. Garden looks pretty good now. Very dark but no rain.

Sun. Mar. 15

A.M. meetings but rained this PM. Young fellows came to ask J. why he wont have fellowship with them & scolds all the time. This P.M. Olduboi came to ask what they shall do about S’s shauri. J advised them taking it to Narok. I should have liked to ask him why he doesn’t give Nol. to S.

Mon. Mar. 16

Rather rainy but P. washed & most got dry. J. started at roof but too wet so went at garage. Rainy this eve again. Wrote several letters. J. wrote the boys. Put clay above mop boards & will put kalsomine on tomorrow. Sent for more red yarn for K’s sweater. Want to hustle & finish it now.

Tues. Mar. 17

Cut out coffee & have headache. Kuyoni & Sitoya went to Narok to shauri. The Narok elders have decided he must pay the S. 200. They were bribed with beer & shs. Boys came back in rain - brot mail. Kuyoni says they are now blaming him that Wambui is gone. What next! Maitei seems determined to get them both into prison. Some home mail. J. worked at iron on roof also frame work of garage.

Wed. Mar. 18

Seemed so wet we had school instead of garden work. I had headache again all day. I’m going to try it to end of week tho. Baboons got all Parmales lovely corn. P. ironed but missed school. Sitoya has written a letter to the D.C. telling all about his case. & wants us to put with ours & send. but J. doesn’t think we should meddle in. So perhaps S. will go to D.C. in person. I’m so sorry for him.

Thur. Mar. 19

Nice mail tonight. Pretty heavy rain again too. Wrote Chas etc. Parcel from Lo of dress. Book from boys “Miss. Methods: Pauls or Ours”. Roland Allen. We’re going to read it aloud. Also Julian Huxleys book “Africa View” with J’s picture of Kilimanjaro in it. Letter from boys telling of moving into the big place. Hope to buy it later.

Fri. Mar. 20

Day of prayer. Only 4 women out but it rained hard or no doubt others would have come. We had a good time together. J & I read letter this eve & had prayer. Sitoya came to see J. today but I don’t know what past between them. Bridget takes letters tomorrow. We’re meat hungry so she’ll bring a bit.

Sat. Mar. 21

Boys took down sticks of ceiling in kitchen. Very dirty work. glad its done. J. at building all A.M. In P.M. was having a good go at garden when Mr Roach & the Gov’t Dr. from Nairobi came to see & speak to Masai here. Had tea. They left just at dark but he wants to come back on Tues. for more words & examinations.

Sun. Mar. 22

Mtgs as usual. John announced a shauri the first Sat. in May. May he have Divine wisdom to know just how best to go about it. Little shower this eve.

Mon. Mar. 23

Sent Waweru for letters. Heard from Shaffers. They are some place beyond Kajiado. They almost turned back from Ngong as it rained very hard there. Work as usual. Parmale washed. Started letter to Guithers. wrote Mrs S. & will send when there is a chance.

Tues. Mar. 24

Dr. came about 9:45 & had a busy day. Staid to lunch & tea but left at dark. Seems a nice sort. Wears no hat. His name is Philip or Phipp. Gave his helper Ole Kensendo my letters to post. School til recess only.

Wed. Mar. 25

Children went to gardens. I got quite a piece knitted at Mr. K’s sweater. There are so many things to do but I’m going to stick at it til its done. Jno in garden. No rain.

Thur. Mar. 26

Lovely mail tonight & groceries from Nairobi. Another letter from Mr. Day & cheque which he says is for our wedding present. Cora sent ear drums - I’ll try tomorrow. Miss Miller wrote from Eldoret. Children went to gardens again. Thundered this P.M. Rain is around.

Fri. Mar. 27

Another wk of school gone. Only 4 more - if we close when B’s come if they come. Only 3 women out. Nol. is so sad these days. I do want a talk with her. Guess Sitoya has given up trying to bargain for her. Olduboi is so stubborn. No rain.

Sat. Mar. 28

Tried ear drums yesterday but left ear gets very sore. Have them in today & they are better but can’t see any dif. in hearing. Done early with work. knitted this P.M. I do want to get it done. Sprinkled a bit.

Sun. Mar. 29

Milaun brot mail. Letter from Mrs. S. saying they were at Loitokitok but found no people & much rain so came back. So much rain they didn’t get any place they were supposed to go. We talked long on veranda so didn’t finish our chap. in reading.

Mon. Mar. 30

Every thing ab’t as usual. Olle Naisho butchered so there is meat in cupboard. Dad hasn’t much pep these days. Not ill just tired out. Got letters ready for boy to take tomorrow. Started one to boys.

Tues. Mar. 31

Ab’t 11 Shaffers pulled in. Had dinner with us. Had just sent their letters so sent a boy after Waweru but didn’t catch him - both went to Narok. Talked late & prayed together. They came back because of rain partly - & I don’t know what else. No rain here - just a sprinkle.

Ndilai has now had a year in the [Bible] School [After six months in prison for debt.] & I doubt if we will help him to any more. I hope he can get out & preach soon now. but there again he will want support. Perhaps these folks will straighten up and get a blessing so they’ll be willing to help along.

Wed. Apr. 1

P. ironed. Everything as usual. Garden work. We had tea at S’s so got nothing special done. Had prayer mtg here. Jno has ab’t finished the sides of the building. Writing Mr. Day. He sent another check & I sent it to the boys.

Thur.* Apr. 2

I’m so sorry I forgot to write Aunt Ellens birthday letter. I hope she didn’t expect it & was disappointed. I’ll hardly get Aunt A’s to her in time either. Mr Clarke drove into his place this eve. Mr. S. is putting a screened cupboard outside their kitchen. Sewing - but not many come.

Fri. Apr. 3

We suddenly decided to take Wambui & go to the D.C. & see what we could do. They said I should go along. We found that it was a holiday - Good Fri. - but Major Dawson was very nice & listened to us. He said no father could compel a daughter to marry a man she didn’t want & that if W. was in S’s house Mbaei couldn’t touch her.

Sat. Apr. 4

I had hard words with Parmale yesterday because he didn’t have food ready when we got back. He got saucy too. So I told him this morn. if he really did what was right I was sorry ab’t my words. Baked & cleaned as usual. Expect Dawson & Mr & Miss Denning tomorrow.

Sun. Apr. 5 Easter

When dinner was most ready Mrs S. came & said Mr & Mrs Storrs Fox were down at the pond too. So course asked all up to dinner. They were a lively bunch. left just in time for P.M. mtg. S’s ate supper here. Mrs. S. went to PM m’t’g. Had ours this eve.

Mon. Apr. 6

No rain yet. Major Dawson & Dennings came in again for swim & to look for something she lost. Staid to tea. Olduboi beat up Nolmisheni last eve - we are told. Jno spoke to D.C. about it but got no satisfaction.

Tues. Apr. 7

Mrs S. & I went to see N. & brot her up to have med. J. went to see elders ab’t it but they say its O’s affair. So Jno said we’d close school & all mtgs til they decide to stay by Masai customs & not be Kikuyu. He & S went to see Dawson but he doesn’t want to interfere. We may have to leave here after all. if they just wont stop K.C.A. business.

Wed. Apr. 8

Olduboi took N. to Narok for D.C. to see. Course Sun. cuts were healed some but he beat her again last night for coming here & that opened them again. D.C. said he must stop. Masa. said he must give her over. but he refused. What will the outcome be? Didn’t accomplish much because I hadn’t planned for no school this week.

Thur. Apr. 9

D.C. & Dennings came again this A.M. D.C. told Jno Masagondi wants shauri Sat. & Sun. But says its purely Gov’t affair we should not attend. Parmale oiled dining room floor. It does look nice. I go to woods every P.M. its so lovely now. out Jno’s path. I have my walk before he gets at his.

Fri. Apr. 10

Nice home mail. Letter from boys telling about their trip - where they go. It will be lovely. Mr S. has an offer from Gov’t for the houses at the saw mill but he turned it down & now is sorry. Mr. C. came home. We didn’t know it & came up to supper & we had finished. We are certainly saying “if, if, if.” these days.

Sat. Apr. 11

Masa. decided to have shauri over at Narok tomorrow instead of here. D.C. & A.D.C. & Dennings came again this P.M. & Mr. C came up too. D.C. wanted lesson but didn’t get very far. Mr. S. finally accepted Gov’t figures & so has disposed of quite a lot of stuff. Down to Clarkes for supper & music. Knitted a lot. Most finished one sleeve.

Sun. Apr. 12    FMS Letter

Such a Sun. First thing all the boys were called to the village for shauri by Maitei. Then every one (men) went to Narok. Tonight 7 boys come here & say Masagondi says they must leave for they are Kikuyu. Njuguna told us M. wanted shauri with us & that likely we’d be put out of the Reserve. Each lot returning brot worse news- like Job.

Mon. Apr. 13

First thing this morning Jno was given a copy of a letter & paper drawn up by the K.C.A. This they took to Dawson but he didn’t seem much interested in it but said he’d see Masagondi. A letter came this P.M. to say Masagondi would come tomorrow for shauri with us. We are much in prayer that just right will be done even if we must move.

Tues. Apr. 14

Masagondi came ab’t 8:30 Mulungit right with him; Jno declared the trouble here was K.C.A. Mulungit denied. Jno declared we have no Kidole now. M. denied. Soon others came. Masagondi listened well to M. until Jno brot out the letter saying K.C.A. were doing so & so & signed by about a doz. among ‘em M’s 3 sons. M- & all were surprised as to where it came from but it was decided that those who signed would move away.

Wed. Apr. 15

Started school again with Kinanjui teacher in big room. Only 9 children came. My 5 were there. We hear there is lots of talking & no one wants to make peace. Intended having prayermtg tonight but Jno went for a drive with Mr C. & then he had supper here & left too late. S’s had gone to bed. Jno most ill today. Couldn’t eat breakfast.

Thur. Apr. 16

Went up to see Nyakeiru last eve. She feels very badly but says she is not going to move. And she will come to womens mtg but the children can’t come to school. Today only 5 there. & not Elija. Lois came to sew. she was the only one. & Bridget wanted help with her sock. Finished the sweater!!! It’s a relief. I’ll get it to Narok tomorrow to go to Kjb Sat.

Fri. Apr. 17

Prayer Day. We had a few minutes during Bible hour. Only 3 in K’s room today. Nyakeiru did come to mtg & Susana too & Bridget. But we hear “cusses” ab’t us on all sides. Few letters came. Guithers sent check for $10. Bless ‘em. Were going to start language class today but Mrs S was late at m’t’g. We go over there for Prayer letter tonight.

Sat. Apr. 18

Baked lots of bread & it got very nice. Made a white cake for birthday. A young man is at Clarke’s but he told us to come anyway. Had mutton & music. Such a relief to have the sweater finished. am knitting at the green one using up odd yarn. Dread tomorrow for I fear Jno will speak to mostly empty pews.

Sun. Apr. 19

What a surprise for there were 51 children out. and some 40 adults. Even Mulungit himself. This P.M. only a few but Mr S. took a load for mtgs in kraals on the plain. Brot mail & the box of groceries. Ss ate here but we went there for meeting. Fighting headache yesterday & today.

Mon. Apr. 20

Yes, & now I’m 50 but don’t feel it. A note from the elders came just at noon & has stirred up a lot of talk. Jno announced a shauri for Sat. but now he will try to get them together tomorrow. Had talk with Kinanjui and Sitoya this eve. S’s here to supper. I wrote letters. Am doing bread for Mrs Shaffer. Started language class.

Tues. Apr. 21

Sitoya left this morning with no word to me. I fear he did not like what Jno said to them. Shauri with elders - but they said they had no word. they were leaving. P.C. & Mrs. Butler & D.C. came & talked long too but they simply ignore K.C.A. are doing nothing ab’t it & suggest we go away for 3 to 6 mo. Asked C. up but he feared the mutton was no good so asked us down.

Wed. Apr. 22

Guess we will stop school Fri. 11 out today - 5 of them Soibis. Are having language class every P.M. & enjoying it. Going thro Luke. Prayer mtg at Ss tonight. Wrote Agnes Bell. The young men are not very happy ab’t things. I hope Jno has not been too hard on them. The elders are hopeless unless the Spirit works.

Thur. Apr. 23

Rained a tiny bit but not like [arrow pointing to this date 1 yr. ago]. Grass is already drying up. Kinyanjui did not get out to school today - is sick so I taught both rooms. Guess we will stop tomorrow for none come in time any more. Something wrong with Parmale. He is not happy these days. Jno had prayermtg. Says its going to rain more. Wrote Agnes & Mrs Hurlburt.

Fri. Apr. 24

Sent boy for mail as we were eager to hear if folks are coming tomorrow & he came back without it. So will send him early tomorrow. Stopt school with a good sing. Every body there - 6 in big room. So sorry Sitoya has stopt but just pray God will lead him. Language class. Clarke to sup. S’s were to come over but forgot.

Sat. Apr. 25

Boy got back at 1 with letter saying they’d try to get here by 6 P.M. leaving there at noon. It stormed awfully on the Mau but they were just before it. Got here ab’t 5. Brot a turkey from Barnetts for wedding dinner. and most all we sent for but sent some things by lorry & they will come tomorrow. Baked & cleaned.

Sun.* Apr. 26

37 children in S.S. and 40 or more grown ups in meeting. F’s didn’t come down for breakfast. Mr. S went to Nairaq Ngare took Olgoyai to see a sick woman. Mr F & Phil went with him. Expect to come back tomorrow & bring lumber. Major Dawson at Clarkes for tripe week end. Came up & asked J. down for sup. Rained this P.M. no mtg. Mrs F & I went to S’s for supper.

Mon. Apr. 27

Men got back ab’t 4. Rained hard again this P.M. Mr. S. took the woman to Kijabe to Dr. likely saved her life. Brot mail. Parcel of mats from Miss Newman for Miss Miller. Seems strange not to go to school. Wanjere washed. No class. S’s came over & she played.

Tues. Apr. 28

Mr. S. went for sand & returned too late for class again. Mr. Clarke up to supper. & Mrs S came over & played again. I began a stocking rug. Got letters ready to send in the morning. Have asked Waweru to come for May & help.

Wed. Apr. 29

Grace cried a lot last night so Mrs S said we must come there for prayer mtg. Men working at pond. building pier into the water. Had class today. Put curtains in kitchen & pressed yellow ones for up stairs. Expect Davises on Sun. by mail lorry.

Thur. Apr. 30

Lots of clouds & some sprinkle but no real rain. Men working at pier and dressing rooms. Hyena making a noise tonight. Philip is excited. Finished making yellow curtains - now want to get things down from up stairs & fix up the room. John said he might ceil it on Mon.

The month has passed faster than ever. So sorry school closed with such a few in attendance. Most close tomorrow. Nothing unusual to report. The shauris were unusual in that we seemed to accomplish nothing by them. I’m sure the Lord wants us to look to him only - He is the God of the impossible - & it’s such we need.

Fri. May 1

Waweru wants to work the mo. Guess there’s plenty to do so have taken him on. Still at pier & rooms but getting done. Mr S. made cement tubs so couldn’t help much. Are planning picnic supper tomorrow night after a swim. Have asked Mr. Clarke.

Sat. May 2

Every one had a good swim & were going to have picnic supper down there but just as we were ready to eat an awful rain came & we ran up here - got pretty wet. Ate cafeteria style here & on veranda. Mr. Clarke here too. Baked & cleaned as usual.

Sun. May 3

Had communion this P.M. Mrs Mulungit & Mother of Soibi & Parmale were all the natives. Shaffers went to kraals & Kuyoni went with them. Read from “Miss. Methods” tonight & talked long. Had a good sing first. Davises didn’t come. S’s staid out for supper & Philip.

Mon. May 4

Wanjeri washed. Waweru carried old shingles into the house. Mrs F. finished knitting her stocking rug. Mr F. works at pictures at Mr Clarkes. Mr C took nice ones of them. Mr. S., Mr F & Phil. went to mill - took lunch. Too late for class. Came over & started Rigoletto. John started ceiling the east room up stairs.

Tues. May 5

Telegram came ab’t 11. Mr S. started over ab’t 2. but Davises came just as he started. A Mr. Feigh from Ngiro whom we met at Clarkes brot them from Narok. They have arranged for Phil to go to U.S.A. May 30 boat. Finished Rigoletto this eve. Davises are in S’s guest house. F’s thot their car was broken but found ‘twas nothing.

Wed. May 6

Wanjeri ironed because he went to Narok yesterday. Mr. Downing wrote that Floyd Piersons might be up from the coast & they & McK’s & he might come out. We hope they can. All at our house for prayer mtg. but Mr S. staid with the children. Grace is not well these days. The swelling is no worse but no better either.

Thur. May 7

Jno & Mr S. went to mens prayermtg & we others went to C’s for phono. Mr S took mtg & J. came too. Nice mail. We drove to N. & got it & sheep. Killed turkey today & did lots of things to get ready. Mr C. helps with beds etc. Will bake tomorrow A.M. Parmale cleaned silver.

Fri. May 8

Mrs. Davis & Mrs Farnsworth helpt all day. Parmale came early & helpt but they all staid away too long this P.M. so we had much to do by ourselves. To the back for details. Enjoyed the day much & had no headache. Kijabe folks came ab’t 11:30.

[from back] Baked bread - biscuits & pies. Mrs. Davis baked chocolate layer. Had big soup for dinner. ab’t 11:30 Mr & Mrs F. Pierson & McKenricks came. Piersons eat & sleep at S’s. The men finished the ceiling & we cleaned up the east room & McKs are there & Phil on floor of the Davises room.

Not much rest this P.M. Boys were to eat & return but they didn’t come early & we had to work long in kitchen. Mrs D. stuffed the turkey & Mrs F saw to table. brot in long table from school. & put round table on veranda. We were 13 in dining room & children were 6 on veranda. Mr. C. came after swimming. We took pictures and then were ready for supper ab’t 6. Riced potatoes, sweetened sweet potatoes, creamed onions, turkey & dressing. Mustard pickle, cabbage salad, raisin pie & cheese. tea. Phils chocolates & mints. Every one seemed to enjoy themselves. Mr McK. carved. Kijabe folks got us 6 lovely silver bread & butter knives. & Mrs F. gave me the rug she has been knitting. Had them write their names in my album. After supper had a bon fire. Then sat on veranda & talked & Mr. F. ran the phono. Mr C. had to go home as Roach was there. He loaned us some dishes & a bed & blankets & pillows.

And now its over. That 25^th anniversary. Mrs. F. wrote a poem for us. Mrs S. read it at the table. God has been so good to us, and given us so many friends now. We praise Him & pray we may be more faithful than ever before.

Sat. May 9

This is the “day after” alright. The Kjb folks left ab’t 10 & we went with them up onto the big plain & had lunch. Enjoyed it much. Got back & had a bit of a rest then Dawsons came. She looks well. Mrs D & Mrs Davis & Mr Denning went in swimming then tea. Then we had supper ab’t 6:15 & now are going to Shaffers for music.

Sun. May 10

And such a day. Services this AM as usual but while getting dinner Milaun came running with his lip bleeding. 3 at Maitei’s village had beaten him - he got up & grabbed a stick & struck the nearest which was Maitei & feared he had killed him - but only cut his head. We don’t know just what is best to do. He is sleeping in S’s garage as it isn’t safe for him to go back to his house. No more mtgs today except ours this eve.

Mon. May 11

F’s got away for Kijabe ab’t 10. Wanjere went with ‘em to see ab’t tax. S’s & their crowd got away ab’t 12:30. Milaun with them to Narok. He returned this eve & said the D.C. turned him over to Masagondi & he was to go tomorrow. So he slept by the stove in the kitchen. Davises are moved over here up stairs. Dad & Dr. working at East room & it does look nice. Very little mail. Hard rain this eve.

Tues. May 12

Wanjere had to go again - so no wash done yet. Milaun has not returned. We have been much in prayer for him today. Denning & Dawson came early so Dawson had long class with tea in the middle. Mrs Davis & Mr Denning were swimming with their tubes. Played some of S’s records. I wrote letters.

Wed. May 13

Milaun came back this A.M. & said Masagondi fined Maitei Sh. 30-!!! That isn’t much but enuf to let him know the K.C.A. haven’t all power. Milaun has promised to take a cake & bread to S’s camp tomorrow. Mrs D. baked the cake. We do feel so good ab’t Masagondis decision. I believe it was in ans to prayer. Wanjere washed a big wash. Clarke here to supper we there for music.

Thur. May 14

Milaun came early & I gave him things. Hope he is there by this time. Kaparondoi went for mail. Nice home letters & from boys. Wanjere ironed but not finished. Baked good apple pie. Head bad tonight. Mrs D & I had good swim yesterday but too lame today. Very dark & threatening but only cold wind. We had prayer mtg tonight. No boys here.

Fri. May 15

Prayer Day. We went over letter this P.M. Mr Clarke here to supper. Milaun returned. Maitei has appealed to D.C. Case comes off on Wed. Ravelled Johns sweater. Will try smaller needles. Worked at rug this eve.

Sat. May 16

Baked & cleaned. Dawsons, Denning & Roach came. Mrs. D & I went in swimming too. but I didn’t stay long. Tea. We are to go to Dawsons on Tues. for lunch. She will come for us. S’s came in ab’t 4. It rained here last night & is at it again. John to Clarkes for supper. Made out list for yarn. Will send to Miss Perrott.

Sun. May 17

Meetings as usual with usual attendance. I walked to Mulungits to see Nyakeiru but she was at Elisa’s. Read from R. Allens book again & talked long. Again Dr. tried to show Jno he is mistaken ab’t the action of Conf. 1920 ab’t catechumen not being allowed in class if they didn’t take their stand. but he still persists he is right ab’t it. Dr will look it up.

Mon. May 18

Wanjere washed. Waweru is most sick. Took supper to the pond. Ss went in swimming. Nyakeiru came I dresst her foot. She brot eggs, corn & ndoma. Mrs Davis finishing the buttonholes in 3 shirts she made for Philip.

Tues. May 19

Mrs. Dawson came ab’t 12:15 for us. Phil ate at Shaffers. We had a nice time but Mr Fieth did not come so Major Dawson brot us home again. Staid for tea & sup was ready when we got here. Mr Fieth was to come here to Shaffers but hasn’t. Wanjere ironed all.

Wed. May 20

Kesia is coming in Wawerus place as W. is sick. Major D. came for a long class. brot leg of mutton. Had it boiled for supper. We were just finishing when Clarke came so gave him what was left. We went to Ss to prayer mtg & then to Clarkes to hear some of his new records. Some are very nice.

Thur. May 21

Folks got away ab’t 9:15 in drizzling rain, but cleared later. These days are very peculiar. Nights clear & cold til toward morn. then clouds & rain ab’t day light by noon cleared again. This PM we went to Clarkes to hear the new book “Yeoman of the Guard”. I like it. C. came up to supper but went early as J. had mtg. I wrote Guithers.

Fri. May 22

Kesia went for mail & brot notice of Ward parcel. Hope some one can get it tomorrow. Jno went down to see if Mr. C. would come up to supper but found Mr Aggett there. Wrote 7 letters - duplicate. That’s the way to get them answered quick. Wonder if Cora has had a pleasant day.

Sat. May 23

Baked some. Turia took letters & brot parcel. ‘Twas heavy. Am writing with the new pen which is supposed to be “fine” pt. but don’t think it is very. Watch is nice too. Dawsons came & Denning & the Grays. We are to go there Mon. a holiday. Mr S. has not returned.

Sun. May 24

Shaffer came in ab’t 9. Quiet uneventful day. Meetings as usual. Long walk after supper. S’s ate with us. Meeting there. Really is empire day.

Mon. May 25

Dawsons etc came but its rainy & every thing seemed rather uncertain & I made fig jam so we begged off - tho they said Clarke was to be there for lunch & would bring us back. Wanjeri washed. Waweru at work again. Some boys went for sports.

Tues. May 26

To Clarke’s for supper. Pleasant eve. Wanjeri ironed til 3 P.M. so was glad no work tonight. It rained some every night but clears by P.M. Jno is getting on with the bedroom ceiling. S’s hope to go out by Thur. I’m disappointed with this pen. It’s not fine pointed as I had hoped.

Wed. May 27

Dawson came for language Dennings to tea & another. Made yellow hem pillow cases. Made one ticking case & put feathers in. Want to do more tomorrow. Worked at song book this P.M. Settled accounts after prayer mtg. Narok boys tried the water. Want sports next week.

Thur. May 28

Shaffers here to dinner. Didn’t get away til 3:30. Waweru went to Narok & brot mail - but not much. Also Jona’s new khaki trousers from Kijabe. Expected Mr C to supper but about 8 a note came saying he had only just got mine asking him & was leaving for Nairobi tomorrow. Jno finished ceiling. It is pretty good.

Fri. May 29

Pretty much alone today. Guess Mr. Clarke went for we saw nothing of him. Finished fixing up the pillows. Jno put boards on stairs & base boards. Looks nice now. Working at music book for Masai songs. Wrote Mrs Matthews.

Sat. May 30

Did work as usual. Wanjere baked cookies. Expected the whole Narok crowd for tea but none came. Mr Feith & Mr. Thomson came for tea & then when Mr C. returned they all came up for supper & then we went down for music. Pleasant time.

Sun. May 31

Not quite so many out as usual. Just as we came from P.M. meeting Mr. Gray met us & asked for the tube as the Narok crowd had come for a swim. Later they called but we didn’t have tea - only supper after they left. Wonder what tomorrow will have for us.

This mo. has surely been a change. Not very quiet [arrow pointing to “quiet time in P.M.” previous year] but enjoyed our guests. and never again will we celebrate a silver wedding. So it has been quite unusual. Also in that we’ve had very little rain. Only a small fraction of last years down pour.

Mon. June 1

There were 11 in the big room - but no teacher as Kinyanjui wants to study for the Exam. Are asking Wambogo. Parmale isn’t coming. Now find he is going with Mr. C. on safari. Mr C here to supper and we there for music & about 9:30 the Narok crowd came to go swim by moonlight.

Tues. June 2

Guess the crowd had a good time last night. After their swim they went to Mr. C’s for drinks etc til early morn. Mr C left today for his safari. Gashisha brot mail. Phil D. getting off on todays boat. Again no teacher. Elders say they are moving so wont pay any teacher here. but some aren’t moving but wont stand alone. Baked cake for tomorrow.

Wed. June 3

School all A.M. but still no teacher. Narok folks - 8 in all came ab’t 3. for water sports. School boys didn’t come til later. No pep - our boys hung back too. Had big tea ready but they scarcely touched things - & all sat so mum. usually they laugh & talk awful. Jno was so fussed ab’t what he called a “flat failure” that he’s already in bed. 7:45.

Thur. June 4

Early this morn we saw Partari drive away with Maitei. This may have had something to do with the trouble yesterday. Were to have had prayermtg together this P.M. but only 2 women came tho there were 11 men & boys out. Children all came to school again but no teacher. Ill not say anything til Mon. but if no teacher comes then then I’ll send children home.

Fri. June 5

And now one week is ended. Don’t know if the elders will pay Wambogo or not. I’ll not teach the children longer for I can’t do my room right. Roach & Dennings were here for swim but didn’t come up. they never came on Fri before. There certainly has been some trouble among ‘em.

Sat. June 6

Major & Mrs Dawson came by themselves & were as cheery as ever so there’s nothing ab’t us thats causing the trouble. We had rather expected Mr Feith & Mr Thomson for tea but they came ab’t 8 P.M. Then I got them supper & we had some little music but mostly talk.

Sun. June 7

Meetings as usual. Went down river for picnic lunch. Cloudy but no rain. They intended leaving this PM but are staying on. Elders asked Bridget to teach til Wambogo returns he has gone to Nairaq Ngare. Men played phono & looked thro library while we were at mtgs.

Mon. June 8

Men left this morning. Bridget was to teach but had to go to Narok so I did it again. Kinyanjui’s Ruth went to Nairaq Ngare without his permission. & 2 cows are lost so he was missing today. Kashisha brot mail - not much. Miss Slater wants us to take care of Mayfield in Sept.

Tues. June 9

We talked long & hard last eve ab’t a car. For some reason J. has changed his mind & says we wont get any - no matter how much money we have. Don’t know who persuaded him. He may change again when we have enuf money.

Wed. June 10

Wanjere cleaned S’s house today. But heavy clouds & cold all day. A letter came yesterday from them sayng they were returning in another week or so for provisions etc. Wrote Miss Moody. They are going to Mombasa in Sept. so wont come here. Wrote Miss S. can’t well come in Sept. such vacation is no good for Jno.

Thur. June 11

Had sewing yesterday & Prayermtg today. 10 out but only 2 women. Dawson came yesterday but staid only a little while. Miss Denning went swimming. Others were having tennis match. Working at song book.

Fri. June 12

2 wks of school over. Bridget has been teaching. Don’t know just how well she gets on but a few new ones have come. Have almost as many as ever with night school. Now Soibi & Kashisha have both gone to Ngong. Some mail but none from home.

Sat. June 13

Messrs Fieth & Thompson came abt 9:30 ready to drive to the Falls with lunch. Had pie done & cookies ready to cut out so Wanjere did all. Got back about 4. The men went for swim I got room ready & supper. They seemed to enjoy all. Brot letter from Mrs S. saying they may be in on Mon. To Clarkes for music. Rainy.

Sun. June 14

After waffle breakfast which Mr T. helped with - they left very reluctantly. Had never seen pop corn - so popped some for them. Very dark cold day. most disagreeable. Had chicken & rhubarb pie so might well have had company but its nice to have the day quiet. Not very big crowd out. 25 adults.

Mon. June 15

Ss came back ab’t 2. Just before they drove in a T.R. brot a telegram from Harry Hurlburt saying he’d be here tomorrow. Ss & we in for a swim before supper. They ate here. Wrote some letters. Nice home mail. C. has decided to finish B. College. Guess Jno’s letter helpt him.

Tues. June 16

After early lunch Jno & Mr S went to Narok to meet Harry & even drove out on the road but saw no lorries at all & Indians said none were expected. Late supper.

Wed. June 17

Sent Kapirondoi to the place where roads meet with letter for Harry but ab’t 5 he returned & said no lorries had come from Kijabe but I had just paid him off & went to the front door & here was Harry. he saw K. before him but couldn’t overtake him & Masai carried his case.

Thur. June 18

We have talked hard & fast today. Harry seems much as always. He has booked for July 2. so can’t stay very long. We are glad he is getting off tho we had wanted a longer visit. He came out in 1917 & has been in Congo most of the time. Prayermtg this P.M. only 9 out. Head not good.

Fri. June 19

Head so bad I didn’t get up til school time. drank a cup of coffee but it came up. ate little dinner but did very little school work or P.M. work. Day of Prayer service tonight after picnic supper at pond. Harry doesn’t like the water so hasn’t been in.

Sat. June 20

Special day of prayer for revival. call sent out by Mr. Pitt-Pitts. I spent part of P.M. in quiet. Had nice talk with Harry & prayer together. Mrs. S. & Jno played this eve. I worked at rug. Baked do-nuts. Boys coming from Narok say locusts are there & coming this way. They are cleaning up everything.

Sun. June 21

No locusts yet today. Thank God. We all ate supper at S’s. Then went for walk to Kuyoni’s house & back here for meetings, before putting children to bed. They weren’t very restless. Getting a birthday letter & card off to Mrs. Myers. Kashisha is back from Ngong & says there is to be a big school there run by Dr Arthur & the Gov’t pays teachers.

Mon. June 22

Shaffers here to dinner then got off by 3 or so. Kuyoni brot mail. Letter from Mrs W with their itinerary in it. So glad for it. Traveling toward Calif. today as they get to San Pedro tomorrow. Also a letter from Mr Day & his $100 check. Bless him. Locusts haven’t come yet but K says they are on the way.

Tues. June 23

Jno & Harry finished all the brush cutting & most grubbing too on the hill east of us. It looks so nice. Are told locusts are very near. Walked out to old bend in road but saw none. Waffles for breakfast. Harry likes ‘em. He does some typing for me.

Wed. June 24

Saw locust clouds south of here & few scattered ones came on hill here but nothing harmed so far. Nanjiru says Jno is an oloiboni & sent them all away. How I’d like to be in Los A. now. Boys are there til Mon. Sewing this P.M. So glad to have Harry here. Hate to think of his leaving so soon.

Thur. June 25

Suddenly toward morning J’s left arm began to ache. in the same place it has troubled him before. Has pained a good deal today. 7 men & 6 women to mtg. Mail brot a cheque from Miss Moody of 150- to us for vacation. Other nice local letters. Harry made me a butter ladle of olive. very nice.

Fri. June 26

Jnos arm more painful than ever. rested very little last night. This is Harrys last day & I’m sorry. He’s done quite a bit of typing for me. Masai songs. does very well. I got a lot of Kjb letters off. also some local. Kuyoni will carry his things. The garden tank has sprung a big leak.

Sat. June 27

Harry got off before 7. & Kuyoni said he waited long for the lorry. K. brot meat. Baked bread only. Wanjere had to get wood so I did some cleaning. Washed hair. J’s arm very painful. Sits on the organ stool & runs type writer. I wrote Kellers for sugar.

Sun. June 28

Meetings as usual & Jno got thro them all tho I guess his arm bothered a good bit. We read from Jonathan Edwards thesis or argument “Justification thro faith alone”. Its long & we read late but not finished. Wonder how the boys are faring in Anaheim today & Santa Ana.

Mon. June 29

Wrote boys reminded them of [arrow drawn to this date 1927, camped on banks of Colorado river, bottom of Grand Canyon near Phantom Ranch]. At recess time the locusts came clouds & clouds til 2 PM when it sprinkled a bit & that settled them. Didn’t come into the garden much. Bridget helpt. Gave her dinner. Walked to Clarkes. No damage done there. Corn badly stript where not watched. Boys on way to Fresno.

Tues. June 30

And today too, more than yesterday kept passing til 4 P.M. & now trees on all sides are hanging full. At recess time Shaffers drove up. So we’ve been chatting hard. dinner here & Roy Davids apple in salad for supper there. Wanjire went to Narok for letters but S’s brot them. Sprinkle tonight. Many gardens stript, ours OK still.

Everything seems a bit more encouraging than last year but the elders seem determined to leave. We just want that which will bring greatest glory to God. John’s arm troubling makes him discouraged & not ambitious for any thing. If we only had a car & he could get out more it would be better. Hope we can get one soon.

Wed.* July 1

Locusts were awful again today flew much lower & ate a lot more grass & gardens. Nyakeiru has saved hers tho’ very well. They are eating the husks from the ears now. Trees & even weeds on all sides are loaded with them. Have had prayer mtg at Shaffers. Want to write the Ed. Dept now and post tomorrow when some one goes. We expect home mail as 2 boats are in.

Thurs. July 2

Locusts have all passed now, & we hope no more will come. Had prayer mtg as they had pretty well stopt then already. Tried to get some one for Narok but all were busy. Milaun says he will go tomorrow. Writing at girls’ letter.

Fri. July 3

Milaun went & brot nice mail. Boys’. Mrs W. & book. Lo. & magazines. Wanjere was not well yesterday & today didn’t come at all. Bridget brot chicken in payment of debt so its dressed & I fixed oranges for marmalade. Hope W. comes tomorrow for there’s much to do.

Sat. July 4

Mr. Thompson from Ngiro came in time for lunch. S’s are entertaining him. They & he went for swim. Then we were going to have picnic supper &, as so often here to fore it rained so hard we had to come up here. Then had music both kinds.

Sun. July 5

Meetings as usual. Mr. S. staid home all day. Communion this P.M. Hanna did not come. Men sat out & talked this eve. all here to supper. Mrs S took children home & did not return. I read. all to bed early. J’s arm much better.

Mon. July 6

How well I remember 4 years ago. [“Eden Camp” between Pueblo & Colorado Springs] Mr. Thompson took S to saw mill etc & back for tea. His boy brot mail. Pass book says 2100 S. in bank. A Mr Edwards at Rumuruti would like his nephew to come here to learn Masai. & wants to know what ‘twould cost. J. wants to write & suggest a trip around Kenya in pay.

Tues. July 7

Had bon fires last night then Mr T. left. Today ab’t 11 Mr Matthews, Adventist Miss. Musoma T.T. drove in on way to Nakuru to see his wife who is ill with black water fever. Were so glad to see him. He is very thin. Started reading “Pool of Sacrifice”- aloud. Finished Musketeers. Mr S. & Kariuki leave tomorrow for Siria.

Wed. July 8

No sewing class as locusts came hot & heavy all P.M. & are roosting in the trees around. Mr S. & Kariuki left - he said for Siria but no one knows exactly. K. was quite sick. The Dawson crowd came for swim - also Mrs. Roach. D’s leave for 3 wks. safari. Got eggs.

Thur. July 9

A few locusts flew this morning but not many so we called for prayer mtg this P.M. & 5 women & 2 men came but we soon dismissed as more locusts came & the women went to save their gardens. The blue cat has 4 kittens in S’s cook house. Jno has almost finished the chicken house & run. Guess we can get them Sat. morning.

Fri. July 10

Mrs. S. helpt with the singing again. Are learning Bring Them in her translation. Mr. C. was to come today but have seen nothing of him. Bridget is going to Narok & will take letters. Card from boys in Tenn. Happy on the way.

Sat. July 11

Mr C. came & came up to supper & just before dark Mr Senff from Congo came in on his motor cycle. Came from Kilima Feza today. Didn’t bake bread but 4 pies. squash. gave Mrs. S. one. Got chickens from Olle Naisho this morning. They seem quite content.

Sun. July 12

Boys are in Montana today. After a wk of travel & sight seeing. Meetings as usual. Several elders are back. Meeting at Mrs S’s. Read a Keswick address. Good. Mr Senff is so interesting - tells of Congo work. They have 200 out schools.

Mon. July 13

Wanjere washed. We all went for swim. Mr. S. did enjoy it much. Looked at pictures & talked late tonight. He caught some butterflies. Is making a collection. Locusts again. We caught a lot for the chickens - they love ‘em. Mr C off to Narosero.

Tues. July 14

Got my new diary from Lo. so now I can go another 5 yrs. Mr Senff got away ab’t 9. He & Jno gathered locusts before break. but they needn’t have troubled for they came again thick & are roosting around us.

Wed. July 15

Mr. Clarke came in this P.M. & finally staid to supper but wasn’t feeling well. We went down for music afterward. He expects to go to Nairobi tomorrow - to be away 6 wks or more. Had a long hot discussion ab’t gardens. but finally all were willing & we divided up so each has some. Milaun agreed to a piece above the others.

Thur. July 16

Mr. C. was here to lunch & Mr S. also returned. Had prayer mtg there this eve. The children are so afraid to stay alone. Sent for mail but the lorry broke down & wont be in til tomorrow. Mr. C. leaves tomorrow. Good crowd out to prayer mtg – 14.

Fri. July 17

Prayer Day. John’s “Everyman’s Library” books came - 13 of them. He’s so pleased with them. I think the yarn will be here next week too as the letter is here saying what they’ve sent. Shaffers go to Kijabe next week to see the Council about opening a station at Kilgoris in Siria country. Poor fellow doesn’t know what he wants.

Sat. July 18

And now R. [Raymond] is 23. Probsts are sailing with Mr D. Aug. 1. He (Mr P.) is so bad they must leave at once. It is very hard for Mrs. P. to leave Grandma Myers. Don’t know what arrangements will be made. Baked lots of bread & returned what Mrs S. had given me. Locusts at Narok again. Wrote boys. shall try air mail.

Sun. July 19

Services as usual. School children sang Bring Them in & marched. Shaffers ate supper here. & had mtg before they put children to bed. They want to get away by noon tomorrow. Wrote to a number at Kjb. They will try to post boys’ letter airmail & if they can’t then they’ll put it in Miss Harlands & airmail that & Miss H. will send it on.

Mon. July 20

S’s got off abt 11. They wanted us to go too & see ab’t a car. If we had money to get a new one guess we’d have gone but its too uncertain ab’t finding a 2^nd hand one such as we want. No mail - lorry is broken. Don’t know when it will be here.

Tues. July 21

Asked folks that came from Narok if the mail lorry came in but none saw it. Mended all P.M. & sewed some at new underwaists. Martha came to school. Wambui came yesterday. So many troubled with itch. We have hives. J. taking sulphur. Wrote the Aunts.

Wed. July 22

School & gardens as usual. Wambogo went to Narok & asked for mail but the clerk refused him. Not knowing W. was asking I told Kinyanjui to ask & he brot it but no parcel mail, & nothing mentioned in paper. Korea cloth will be sent when shirts are made.

Thur. July 23

Not many out to prayer mtg. Locusts threatened a bit. Wrote Aunt A. No Shaffers yet. Perhaps they are asking them to stay & help Probsts.. Boys at Glenellyn tonight. Hope they see the R.V.A. ites from Wheaton.

Fri. July 24

Tonight 8:30 S’s came. I made tea & we chatted awhile. Kuyoni went for mail but only 2 unimportant letters. I sewed underwaist. & started rug crocheted. Dr D is F.D. & McK. D. Sup. Mrs Probsts sister Mrs Saum, who is in USA now is coming to look after Mrs Myers. Mr P. is physically very weak & can’t remember names.

Sat. July 25

Very bum all day. No meals but baked etc. even washed my hair. Thompson & another at S’s for week end. Bonfires. Threatening rain. Chased locusts hard yesterday - but not for long.

Sun. July 26

Mtgs as usual. We ate at Shaffers. Haven’t eaten much today either - my stomach just doesn’t want any food. Had a little meeting here tonight, & talked & had tea thinking the men wre leaving but they didn’t.

Mon.* July 27

Mr S. went to Ngoto Nado to see ab’t an iron building there. Letter from Edwards, finally. & he says the nephew can’t come now but after Sept. we should come there & he’ll arrange to get us to the Mt. Etc. Women here for bandages etc this P.M. 2 eggs from our hens.

Tues. July 28

Just before noon Nelsons from Tan. Ter. drove in. Came earlier than they expected to because Dr. Miller’s visit to them was postponed. Lots of talking. They have a Chev. coupe they put a box body on.

Wed. July 29

Mrs S wanted women to plaster but so few came she asked the boys from school to come. & they all went so by 2 P.M. it was done & looks nice. Had sewing tho the locusts came some. The men went to look for short way to Narosero. All tired tonight so put off prayermtg til tomorrow night.

Thur. July 30

Locusts came so bad we chased all P.M. No prayermtg. Mrs. S. helpt school boys with flutes. Some play nicely. Prayermtg this eve. Nelsons thot they must go tomorrow but he is making some chairs for dining room so will stay til Mon.

Fri. July 31

Locusts bad again til ab’t 3. then all was clear. We hope they’re gone for good for they were a determined lot. S’s let their corn go. but so far we’ve saved ours. Are getting 3 eggs these days. Cards from the boys. Hadn’t reached Calif. yet.

And now it looks as tho we’ll get to Kenya Mt. this yr. [Arrow drawn to this date 1929 when John was eager for trip to Kilimanjaro.] We just want what is best. Quite regular school work this mo. Sitoya seems to be getting settled too for Masagondi says Nol. should live with him til the father pays back all cattle & all shgs. Some music tonight.

Sat. Aug. 1

We all packed into S’s car & went down the Narok where they want the road to cross. Had lunch then J., S. & Mr. Thompson looked for Ngiro & found it abt 2 miles on. Home by dark & found locusts had been here bad & boys didn’t chase. Ate all the pineapple plants to the ground.

Sun. Aug. 2

Communion & Nyambura joined us. Parmale was back too. Soibi took again but I don’t think he ought. Nelsons attended both mtgs. Had short service at S’s this eve. Read a Keswick address.

Mon. Aug. 3

Nelsons got away ab’t 9. He’s a great talker & slow. S went to saw mill. They want to go to Narosero tomorrow. Will take Wanjere & will take their boys. W. washed today. Sitoya went for shauri & brot mail. 18 lbs wool came. & have sold some. Women are so glad [illegible]

Tues. Aug. 4

S’s got off ab’t 11. Kuyoni had to get wood so will iron tomorrow. Sold ab’t S. 20/ of yarn already. Working at blue dress with green braid & front. Cloudy & dark most all day. but no rain. Mr S’s Lumbwa boy is making tables for me this wk.

Wed. Aug. 5

Keshia went with letters & to bring meal for fundi [Swahili for “skilled workman”]. Sending Lo air mail birthday letter. Fundi made nice table with drawer for up stairs. The big girls came to class for knitting. I put some at patching. Etta does very well. Kuyoni ironed.

Thur. Aug. 6

Not many out to prayermtg. Elders just don’t want fellowship with us in that way. Kapirondoi asked for permission to go see his sick brother & Elija went along. So K. is alone. He comes good & early so we get done before school.

Fri. Aug. 7

S’s came back. Roy D has measles. Kashisha brot mail. Such lovely letters from the girls & snaps of boys. I am sending them on to other mothers. Mr Edward wrote ab’t expense of car hire so we have written Brown to look for a car for us & J & Mr S will go in & see ab’t getting one. Perhaps Devitt will drive for us. Lots of excitement.

Sat. Aug. 8

Olduboi wants to know what he should do ab’t Nol. Jno said the Bible says settle your questions or take it to the church & if it can’t be settled there then take it to the judge & take your penalty. & thats what he’s done now he should take his med. Dawsons came. He is very troubled as he must take Exam in Feb. or never.

Sun. Aug. 9

Meetings as usual. Good attendance this P.M. Nolmisheni doesn’t come out these days. but is living at sitoyas. Parmale now takes his class in S.S. & comes to services & takes part. I may send in his name for the Exam.

Mon. Aug. 10

Nothing special in mail but a roll of drawings from Cora that the girls do in school. Mrs S. put them all up on the wall. R.D. stays feverish & eyes weak. but will no doubt pick up soon now. Olduboi wants to make trouble ab’t N. but Masagondi said S. should keep her til all dowry is returned.

Tues. Aug. 11

Mr S went to saw mill & took Milaun from last part of school. So very cloudy & cold the locusts hardly moved from their roosts. A Mr Walker & Mr Coghill called to get permission to fish. Had tea - caught a big one. Wrote Mrs Lieberknecht.

Wed. Aug. 12

Rather a hectic time. At midnight Mrs. S. called me as R.D. was having such a lot of pain. She fears appendix. So called for Thompson to come & take her to Kijabe if Dr. couldn’t come but he wired he’d come. Sent Kinyanjui to call Mr S. All came but Dr. hasn’t arrived yet. T. went back to Ngiro. R.D. seems easier this eve.

Thur. Aug. 13

They did come ab’t 8 oclock. We had finished our prayer mtg. Miss Stevenson came too & is staying. Mr F. & Dr. returned. We are to go in Sun. P.M. Home mail tonight & the Korean goods. but the order was not so well filled as formerly. Cora’s letter too makes me feel sad but sympathetic with her position there. She wants to do right.

Fri. Aug. 14

Roy D. had a very bad night. but more comfortable today. Miss S is not yet certain it is appendicitis. He’s very spotted. I made up the orders of cloth & have that ready to pack. Wanjere cleaned house today. Mr C. came this eve to supper. Closed school. To open Sept. 21.

Sat. Aug. 15

Packing. baked some. Lots of running around getting things together. Guess we’ll be able to leave tomorrow. Mr C. here again. Wanjere washed & ironed. Mr C. knows of a car like his & run as far, for £50. Mended tent. Wrote Mrs Keller a goodby letter.

Sun. Aug. 16

Kijabe. Mr. Devitt was ready to go so we all had supper here at Davises & then they left & will camp along the road. & get early start to town in morning. Mrs D & I sleep together in their room so we can talk a bit longer. Got here just as mtg was out, so saw every one. Mr. Senff here. Motor cycle broke down so gave up the India trip. Sails ‘22.

Mon. Aug. 17

No man & no car as yet. They had hoped to get in tonight but guess they couldn’t do it all in one day. Delivered the Korea goods and went to native school. Locusts this P.M. which threatened the gardens. Sewed up 3 kitchen aprons for boys. Mrs Davis is very tired, as she has all to do these days with Miss S. at Shaffers.

Tues. Aug. 18

They came in just at dark with a box body Ford. Nothing much in the line of beauty but no doubt we will find it fills the bill. The top only over seat but they brot canvas to cover the rest. Got it for £55. Mr. S. left ab’t 7 - for Syabei & we hope to get away tomorrow A.M. Called on Mrs Myers & mended.

Wed. Aug. 19

Gilgil river. Mr. D. had so much to see to that we ate dinner at Davises then stopt at the duka. but got away ab’t 1:30. Stopt at Naivasha for cheese etc. Sprinkled a little & heavy clouds. Wrote to Clara Ford. Her mother died Sun. Nice camp here. a few mosquitos.

Thur. Aug. 20

Awful cold last night. Jno drove a bit but we soon struck mud & it was awful til we got to Thompson Falls. Didn’t recognize the country til we got to the Falls. Lovely road to Rumuruti. Didn’t stop at the Mission hill but came on to Major Edwards. They live in tents & have given us one. This is below the lower falls. Sat by fire & talked.

Fri. Aug. 21

Went up on a huge plain & made a boma & shot a kill. Jno & the 2 young men are sitting up. Have had a lovely day. Locusts here thick tonight. Again sat by the fire & talked. Finished the girls letter. Want to post it at Rumuruti. Read quite a bit. Took knitting but forgot yarn.

Sat.* Aug. 22

Men came about 7. Not a thing came around. J. practiced driving. After breakfast we went to the falls. It is on Mr E’s farm. and they tried fishing. I knitted. Jno & Mr Es Jr. went up river & when we sent K. for them they brot 5 nice large fish with them. Mr E came out & brot lunch. On our way to the old home site it began to rain & rained hard. Finally we found a shed & drove under but things were all pretty wet & we too.

(back of book) Continued from daily entry. We have a letter from Mr. E. to this man but he is not here so we will post it for him. His boys came & insisted we should come into the house. but its dry in this shed & we are tying the tent behind the car & so think we shall be very comfy. Raining hard. Jno did get excited when he pulled out those fish. Mr E. expects to build his house near these falls & use water power irrigation. Hope for sunshine tomorrow.

Sun. Aug. 23

Up late & then walked all around over the place. Mr. D. not feeling well but later took pictures. Can see where all buildings stood & Carl’s grave has fence around it & the house of the owners is near where the tree house was. Several big trees have been cut & small ones have grown. so things look quite different. Swamp is the same. No trace of garden.

Mon. Aug. 24

Left for Nyeri by 9:15. ‘Twas cold across those long plains. Nyeri is quite a town. found Pooles at Nyeri Station. They were very kind and had us put our beds in a new building they are putting up. Had a very pleasant eve. The Mt has been hidden behind heavy clouds all day. Used tent as curtain & Mr D. did not sleep in car.

Tues. Aug. 25

After nice breakfast we came on to Nanyuki & had a garage man look at the brake. He worked at it quite a while & charged S. 4 & its just as bad as ever. We drove up almost to saw mills but could see nothing from there so returned. Nothing but clouds all day. Camped at Nanyuki river & did washing. Now are camped on top of hill so we can see Mt. in morning.

Wed. Aug. 26 Timau    JWS Note

A Kikuyu came & wanted work. thro him we found another & he wanted to find more at Nanyuki but found an old Somali that knew us at Rumuruti & from him we got 4 donkeys for our loads. for which we pay S. 12- a day. We came out here - tho we thot we should be nearer the place to begin our climb. Called at a settlers - beautiful home - they advised returning to Timau & going up from there. So we are camped beside the river, & hope we can accomplish more tomorrow.

Thur. Aug. 27

Went to another settlers & were again directed back to Timau & to start up another road. Met this man way back on the hills & were directed to edge of woods. Here we leave the car & use donkeys. Pretty place here at edge of huge woods. Dad went to find water & chased up huge herd of buffalo. Rhino & elephant tracks all around. Huge fire tonight in camp.

Fri. Aug. 28

Packed 2 donkeys & 2 without packs for riding. Mr D. rode some & I did too which helpt a lot. Had hoped to get nearer up but it is hard to get donkeys across streams so we are camped up among the hills. Saw the peaks lovely this eve. Will try going with donkeys to ride tomorrow. Lots of scrub pine to burn. Tent up & pine beds. A very interesting day.

Sat. Aug. 29

Tried with donkeys but they got stuck in swamp so went on without. Packed a bit of lunch. Left the deaf mute at camp. Mr D. saw a valley ahead & decided to go. Jack went with him. J & I climbed up, up & were a bit from top where we could see the glaciers when storm came - thunder & rain & we went back. Got to camp at 5. Mr D not til 7:30. I got very anxious. John built big fire which helpt them home. My stomach bad.

Sun. Aug. 30

Mr D. saw the glaciers yesterday from his valley so I said I’d stay & Jno. should try again. Went straight up the ridge & the clouds blew in & it snowed as we saw it yet he got some pictures & had a great time. Waweru, the best of the two Kikuyu was with him. They got back just at dark - all wet but happy. They found a dead elephant. Mr D. strained his ankle. & my stomach refuses food. Quiet restful day for us.

Mon. Aug. 31

Very heavy clouds this morn. so we packed wet things & hustled off. Jack, Dad & I got ahead & when most at woods we sent Jack back to help with donkeys & Dad & I tried to find the path thro the woods to camp. but got lost & tho we had followed buffalo tracks all along we got no sight nor sound til we were in hi grass over our heads we didn’t know what way to turn they crashed sticks only 50 or 75 ft from us. We were frightened. Finally shouted to the rest & got to them & then to car. My ankles were so tired. but we were more tired in mind because of being lost. Had tea & then it started to rain so we packed up & started down. It rained all way - and at Timau. Donkeys came in by nine - & as it had stopt we put up the tent. Mr. D. slept in hut. He wanted fruit so we ate a whole tin. & had stew. Stomach feels better down here. Glad to have been but glad to get back.

Tues. Sept. 1

Had a little trouble at Nanyuki with Somali ab’t donkeys. but finally settled up with check. Man at Garage worked at car again but no better says we must have new brake lining. Stopt beside the road & fried mutton chops. & had cocoa. Passed thro Meru. & ab’t 15 miles. Pretty camp near Gov’t dispensary. Drove thro lots of locusts. Just a bit of peaks visible from here.

Wed. Sept. 2 Githumu.

Pretty long day of driving but very glad to get here. Many valleys. I’m still unsteady because of constant swaying. Ate supper at Wepplers & had lovely bath at Miss Hartsocks. Mrs Reynolds & children here also a Mrs. Lunn & child. but the folks certainly made us welcome. & want us to stay longer-- Talked late.

Thur. Sept. 3

Got away from G. by 9. & were in Nairobi by 11:30. lunched & shopt. Found Kjb. truck in so put some things on it. Stopt at Miss Slaters for tea. & at Kikuyu for chickens & coffee - but didn’t get the chicks. Mr. B. was not there. Got here by 8 P.M. Mrs D. got supper for us. Didn’t get all I wanted but all the shops were finished. Brakes fixed go fine.

Fri. Sept. 4

Bacon factory order only came today. Dr. wants a trip to Suswa tomorrow. Mr Senff will go too so we will stay over Sun. J. takes Sun. P.M. meeting. Washing a bit & getting things together. Partly planned a trip for the gorge on Tues. depends on Mrs. Davis. Locusts here all day. Miss Perrott here to supper. Parcel of shoes from Lora.

Sat. Sept. 5

Jno. Dr. & Mr. Senff went to Suswa. Didn’t get back til 8 or after. Had a great time - want to go again but Mrs D. doesn’t want to go to gorge now so we will go home Mon. I think. Jno says he drove quite a bit today. I wrote the girls, knitted some & talked a lot.

Sun. Sept. 6

Took short walk. Then to mtg with Mrs. Davis. Jno didn’t go. Not very large crowd out. Native spoke. Jno led P.M. meeting at Mrs. Myers. Slept hard this P.M. Miss Mathys & Miss Welty here to supper. Ate pretty much. ‘twas good. We 4 talked late. Senff wants us to wait a day & go to Suswa but I want to get home.

Mon. Sept. 7 Home

And how glad we are to be here. John drove fine. Only one place on the Mau that he did something wrong. could see there had been rain yesterday and an hour after we got in it poured. So glad to be here. Tea & supper at S’s. Wanjeri has not yet appeared but others have. Kinyanjui brot us beef. So glad to be here.

Tues. Sept. 8

Worked all day to get things straight. Wanjeri cleaned. Will wash tomorrow. Quite a number called. No rain yet. Kapirondoi sleeps in S’s boys house & will do errands for us both. Wrote several letters to post. Kin. sends me ab’t a cup of milk. Cattle very thin.

Wed. Sept. 9

Did a big wash. I pasted pictures on mounting sheets. All accumulated snap shots. Prayer mtg here. and settled accounts & talked. Shaffers are planning to all go in when the children go.

Thur. Sept. 10

Wanjeri ironed. but not finished. I baked bread but it didn’t get very good. Mr. S. was going to bring mail but came back ab’t 9 P.M. so didn’t.

Fri. Sept. 11

Nice mail today but this eve Maitei brot a telegram from Dr Davis saying Mr. Probst died at Brooklyn the 9^th. They reached there early evidently. How much better that the Lord has taken him than that he need to suffer on.

Sat. Sept. 12

All packed into the truck & went to Ngota Naado for the day. Mr. S. bot a building there & we took it partly down & brot some iron along. I knitted a bit. Old Bishen Singh is there. and he couldn’t do enuf for us. Took his picture with sword & gun.

Sun. Sept. 13

Nice quiet day - abt 4:30 Mr & Mrs Gray & another gentleman called. We had tea - tho I had our & S’s supper almost ready. So when they went we were soon at it tho Mr S. & Harry D. had had theirs & left for Ngota Naado in order to be there early tomorrow. We went over there for our service. Ndilai took the P.M. meeting.

Mon. Sept. 14

Made khaki cover for organ. Sewed some pillow slips ready for lace to be sewn on. Mended. Wanjere washed blankets mostly but some clothes. Mail & box of chamber set things. Mrs. Davis wrote Probsts landed the 7^th. Quick time. The boys were at Washington then perhaps Herman went right up.

Tues. Sept. 15

Little did we think last year that he’d [Mr. Probst] be in glory by this yr. Wrote Mrs P. a letter. Mrs S. enclosed hers too. Mended - socks especially. Mr S. made another trip to Ngota Naado. now has everything he can bring. Jno worked so hard at tank. he’s all in. Ndilai is trying to make peace here.

Wed. Sept. 16

Went over to S’s after supper to talk over what to tell the elders. They want peace but wont give up their evil ways. Had prayermtg there then. Mr. S. & Jno working at the car. It’s going to be fine when finished.

Thur. Sept. 17

Made kraut- about 8 heads only. bucket filled up very soon. Worked a bit at putting pieces of Kerchief box together. will do it up tomorrow. Not much mail. Were going to eat at pond but sprinkled so we ate here but S’s ate there. We drank tea there.

Fri.* Sept. 18

Set a hen today. Mended my pretty kerchief box that Mrs. Lieberknecht gave me about 45 yrs. ago. It got smashed in my trunk last time out. Pasted it all up. Rained a bit. Prayer Day so S’s came over after 7.

Sat. Sept. 19

Baked pie, cookies, coffee cake, bread. Kinyanjui said he could bring no more milk. Wairimu also finished her debt but she brot some tonight. Jack went for meat came home late. Helpt Nyakeiru sew & put box together it is pretty nearly as good as ever. Shauri this P.M. & it was agred J. should read the card 2 Sun. then see who’d sign.

Sun. Sept. 20

This morn. at S.S. time Guildings, Miss Stevenson & Miss Newman drove in. They lost the road yesterday & camped with a white man 15 miles from Ngiro. We’ve talked a lot in spite of their being very tired. All had sup cafateria style at S’s. Jno read the card today. He only at mtg. I got break. for them. Then dinner time. Ladies staid at S’s. Rained this eve.

Mon. Sept. 21

S’s got away ab’t 10. Left Grace here. I didn’t get school started. The elders haven’t found a teacher yet. Wanjere washed & ironed a bit for G’s. Am fighting headache since Sat. Phonograph tonight. Ladies sleep at S’s & keep Grace with them. She cut her hand & my bureau cover.

Tues. Sept. 22

They got away abt 9:30. Showery this morning so were delayed a bit. My class came for school but the others have no teacher yet. but think they will have P.M. school & have Elija teach. Kuyoni had school this eve. 7 out. Mr Clarke came for lunch & sup. & J. has gone to hear records. Grace is perfectly happy.

Wed. Sept. 23

S’s & Miss Mathys came in about 5:30. They went for a swim & I hustled supper around. Wanjere is too ill to work today so Parmale is helping in his place. He washed. Hung Mrs S’s curtains & cleaned a bit. Elija is teaching the small children from 1:30-4:30. S’s brot 4 hens & a cock from Blaikies.

Thur. Sept. 24

They’ve persuaded me to go with them tomorrow to Narosero. So I have made up some written work. Jno & Mr S. went to Clarkes. Mr. C. was here to supper. Mrs S & I were with Nolmisheni til her baby came at 10:30. All seems well. Maitei’s wife Grace Wangare lost her baby & is very ill now.

Fri. Sept. 25

Mr S. declared they’d be ready by 8 but it was after 11 before we got off. Got nice mail at Narok. Now we are nicely camped at Narosero almost where we were so long ago when we had the “rich mixed”. There are several deep places to drive thro & Jno punctured a tire and broke the front spring in the first. Mr S. wired it up.

Sat. Sept. 26

Made up lunch & drove to the chiefs, Olle Gashu. Had a long talk & nice meeting then to the stream for lunch & afterward J & Mr S. went to the top of the hills. We wrote & lazied around. Got 4 guineas on way back to camp. Locusts were very thick most all day.

Sun. Sept. 27

Locusts started early but left later. Olle Kindi - some relative of Tagis has a garden near & gave us cauliflower & corn. & sugar cane. Kariuki, Ndilai & the men left & held mtgs & looked over the place. Mr S is wild with plans to move the station. We had nice bath in warm stream this eve. Wonderfully nice. Sang some around fire.

Mon. Sept. 28 Home

Took them long to pack & we finally started on. They came with us til we crossed the bad ditch. J. drove it alright this time. Then they turned off for hot springs & we came on. Got to Narok by 1. but waited for mail. Are told Maiteis Grace Wangare died. To Clarkes for supper & music. He has bad cold.

Tues. Sept. 29

Kuyoni washed late but all dried. Kinyanjui hurt his hips so couldn’t come to school. Sitoya killed a sheep. Kapirondoi went for meat. Mr C did not come to supper so we had prayer mtg. tonight. & expect him tomorrow night. Wrote Anges Bell.

Wed. Sept. 30

Dawsons called. She leaves on Fri. for home again. I have wanted a talk with her so I asked if she’d like to walk on. Then we only got well started with what I wanted to say when the car came but she promised to read the Testament. May God open her eyes. To C’s for music after he had supper here.

This has been a broken up month - and I feel we are hardly started with school yet. Elija carries on in P.M. it is not too bad but I can’t get in any sewing & knitting class.

Thur. Oct. 1

By the time this mo. is finished we should be ready for the exam. Had long Arith today correcting papers. Most of them did very well. I want to have some thing like it every Fri. Prayermtg - only 3 there but Susana came late went with me to see Nolmusheni & babe. He is so tiny but seems well.

Fri. Oct. 2

S’s came in ab’t 1. Had had lunch so were here to supper. Dr Davis doesn’t want Miss Mathys to stay now so there are all sorts of plans as to what we should do. Edwards is coming down on Sun. Dr. suggests he & I could stay- but Jno does not think so. Denning called to see ab’t Masai sentences for Exam.

Sat. Oct. 3

Final plans are for Mrs S. to go on to Nixons as planned & if the men want to go to Kilgoris now then they must bring some one for me. Baked cookies & pie. Had picnic supper at pond. Mr. Clarke & Mr. Surridge were there too. J., Miss Mathys & I went to C’s for music. Miss M. enjoyed it much.

Sun. Oct. 4

4 had signed the card. & Tameno was allowed communion as he has his card from C.M.S. but Mrs S & I objected. Shall see ab’t it when Dr D comes. Miss M. here to lunch & all here to supper. Jno all in so no Eng. service today.

Mon. Oct. 5

All had breakfast here. Kuyoni came early & it was ready at 5 but they didn’t come til we called. They got away just a bit before 8. Jno is not up to much these days. It is very hot. Mr Clarke took Mr. Surridge home so guess his car is fixed. No Edwards yet.

Tues. Oct. 6

Jno went with Mr. C for a hunt this P.M. & Mr Edwards came while they were away. Indian brot him here & bag of flour. He brot letters - & check from his uncle. Mr C. here to supper then we went there for music. Getting Kapirondoi started with his work.

Wed. Oct. 7

Jno started Edwards out right away. Put in ab’t 3 hrs. Then had a swim. He enjoys the water & the music. Plays some. Talked late. Wrote a few letters for post tomorrow.

Thur. Oct. 8

Sent Jack for mail but the lorry didn’t get in. Mr. C. too is disappointed. He expected Records to come. Here to supper. brot roasted lesser bustard. Kinyanjui nor Kapirorei have been at school this week. Their shauri. Music at Clarkes.

Fri. Oct. 9

Tests of all sorts at school these days. Using old exam questions. I fear they wont do very well in Swahili & Eng. A load of folks here for swimming - & Jno was in & didn’t get out til after they left. He’ll watch out after this & get out when he hears a car.

Sat. Oct. 10

Baked. Lunched down the Syabei. Mr. C. too. Kuyoni brot nice mail but nothing from the boys. Finished Mrs Westervelts letter. Edwards ran the phono. Dad read a letter from Mr Oulton & check for Sh. 20. Very nice of him. also Brit. Is. paper. & wants more S.S. Times. I sent some.

Sun. Oct. 11

Meetings as usual. Edwards attended all. I read something this eve too.

Mon. Oct. 12

School work as usual. Last night ab’t 10 Johnsons & Dr. Miller came in. from Tan. Ter. had had no supper. So got food & then took them to Shaffers house for beds. They slept late as they were very tired. Car is troubling. Went to C’s for music.

Tues. Oct. 13

They left after lunch tho they weren’t sure they’d get to Kijabe. They have been from their station almost 2 mos. & no mail all that time. Dr Miller wants to get home now soon as Barbara wants to be married soon.

Wed. Oct. 14

Today after Masai they started ceiling the west room up stairs. so Mr. E’s bed is in east room. Jno fished this eve & caught nice lot for supper. Wrote letter to girls. Had nice letter from boys on Mon & picture of R & the Sywulka boys on boat seeing mother off.

Thur.* Oct. 15

Tonight Mr C. & Mr Surridge here to supper. Mr C. went in for a swim but chilled & is not feeling well. My head is bum. Locusts again. A circular has come urging us to urge the people to fight them. S’s aren’t returning til end of month.

Fri. Oct. 16

Very bad head this P.M. Had Prayer day letter read & prayed over at yesterday native meeting. I went over it by myself today. Jno & Mr E. at Clarkes to hear new records. I wrote some letters & am ready for bed.

Sat. Oct. 17

Did up work but head felt bad til ab’t 3 PM when I took an asperin. Has cleared up pretty well now. Jno went with Mr C. all A.M. & Mr C here to lunch. Wrote DM Miller tonight. Mr. Edwards is back in his room again on single bed of Shaffers.

Sun. Oct. 18

Meetings as usual. Locusts came some. Mr. Clarke & Mr. Haines called ab’t 5. Mr. H. had an awful time getting here last night. He always has a time finding the road. Read very good Keswick sermon - on the Ark.

Mon. Oct. 19

Card from Mr. S. saying he was leaving Ndilai & wife at Loitokitok & he was going to Mulango & that they might be here any time. Fundi hs finished the doors to the cupboards. Parmale not in school. The silly boy. He needs every minute he can get. Kinyanjui doesn’t come.

Tues. Oct. 20

Mr. C. up to supper & we went down there for music. He’s going away tomorrow for a week. Heard today Parmale has gone to Nairaq Ngare. I’m afraid he is not a good boy these days. doesn’t seem at all happy.

Wed. Oct. 21

Kapirondoi went with letters. I made mulberry jam & ketchup. Trying out some of Clarkes records - to see if we want any. Some very pretty ones. Sewed sheets.

Thur. Oct. 22

Parmale not in school these days but was in prayermtg today. Course it’s his shauri if he doesn’t pass the Exam. but I do wish he’d be a bit more steady. More music tonight. Nice no. to prayermtg.

Fri. Oct. 23

Got vegs. ready for mustard pickles. Made more jam. Kapirondoi went for mail. Letters from Al & Lo. Took the air mail letter to Lo 4 wks. not much time saved but boys got theirs in 17 days. Still at music. Wrote Aunt Annie tonight. Started Zellers.

Sat. Oct. 24

Baked & cleaned as usual. Jno & Edwards at organ - cleaning & oiling. Dennings & Dawson & another young man here for fishing. Rained & they came up for tea. Later Miss D. had a heart spell so they hurried her home. Wonder so how she is.

Sun. Oct. 25

All meetings as usual. Wonder so how Miss Denning is.

Mon. Oct. 26    FMS Letter

Shaffers came in about 3 P.M. from Kijabe. Said Dr Davis & McK. couldn’t come this week but perhaps next. Work ab’t as usual. Wrote to find out how Miss Denning is. She went to Njoro yesterday. Exam papers came. Arith quite easy. & Swahili not very hard.

Tues. Oct. 27

Shaffers breakfasted here too. They have a new stove - so it takes longer to get settled. Note from Roaches to say they’ll be here tomorrow counting huts. Got letters & books & C’s picture ready to post tomorrow.

Wed. Oct. 28

R’s came in time for A.M. tea. Staid to lunch. Then drove our car home. Their mules are lost so were walking. She seems very nice. Sent R. “Mungo Park” & Francis Guither “Jock of Bush Veldt” & C. a picture Mr. C. gave us. Cattle crossing the river. Had prayer mtg at S’s. He wants to go up the Mau with donkeys & wants J. to go too.

Thur. Oct. 29

Men wanted to get away today & had things ready but Mr Roach didn’t return the car til 5 & then he forgot the mail. so Mr S. sent Joel on bicycle but he got a puncture & returned. It’s hard to be patient thro’ it all for there’s no need at all of all this rush.

Fri. Oct. 30

Joel went early for mail & I guess the men got off ab’t 8:30. I went to school. Letter from Mrs Barnett. They go to Nairobi today or yesterday & on down on Sat. I’m so sorry I forgot to get a letter to her on Wed. Getting C’s birthday letter off & lots of others. Sleeping at S’s. They eat here.

Sat. Oct. 31

Not much Sat. work but busy all day. Funny feeling inside due to Exam. coming on Mon. Mr. C. came back yesterday & said roads are awful. So wrote that to Davis. & don’t know what they’ll do ab’t it.

The month has passed very pleasantly. We enjoy having Mr. E. here. but wish he didn’t smoke. Seems impossible that the long looked for Exam. time has come. I believe the boys will do creditably. Kinyanjui didn’t want to try but has promised he will.

Sun. Nov. 1

Milaun took services. Fairly good attendance. Mrs. S & I read a good sermon from last years Keswick. Then read over regulations for work tomorrow.

Mon. Nov. 2

Very tired. Men got back ab’t noon. Wrote til after 12. then I went back at 2 til after 4. Mrs. S. helpt all A.M. Mr. C. & Mr Surridge here to supper. Men brot back piece of mutton. Very nice.

Tues. Nov. 3

At it again all A.M. & for 1 ½ hrs. this P.M. Mrs S. heard reading & this eve we marked all papers. Most 11 oclock. Most of them did very well. Kinyanjui is lowest - but no wonder.

Wed. Nov. 4

Boys came to school & we went over papers. Sitoya did not come & I thot he had gone out to find hut tax - but he didn’t. So will come tomorrow. Milaun is teaching Kuyonis night class. S’s are waiting for wire. We eat at Mr. Clarke’s.

Thur. Nov. 5

S’s waited til the mail came then they left. Mrs D. wrote Mr. McK couldn’t come now & Dr. hadn’t returned from the coast - so the trip is off & S’s are off for a month. Letter from boys. R. tells how he is drawn to the Sudan. and I’ve wondered

Fri. Nov. 6

if that would not appeal to him. There’s not new territory in Kenya & I had hoped for his sake he’d either go to Congo or Sudan. The S.I.M. is very much like the A.I.M. Work as usual. Mr. Clarke to supper. So hot & windy these days.

Sat. Nov. 7

How well I remember a year ago [demoralized upon returning to Siyabei after having to leave] & who would then have thot by this time Mr P. would be in glory. Usual work today. Sent quite a few Xmas letters. Some more yet to get away. To Mr. C’s for music after our supper.

Sun. Nov. 8

Just usual meetings. After our reading & prayer time this eve. I wrote the boys as Kapirondoi will go tomorrow.

Mon. Nov. 9

Kapirorei came for work but has bad cold. Sitoya goes herding so Parmale & Milaun & Kapirorei are about only ones. Elija not well either. Parmale taught his school this PM.

Tues. Nov. 10

Everything much as usual. Mr. Clarke is not very well these days. Bot a sheep from Parmale. Very nice. for Sh. 7. It tries to rain but doesn’t do much. To Clarkes for music after our supper. Writing letters for Xmas.

Wed.* Nov. 11

Mr. C. worse this morn. & asked Jno to go for dispenser at Narok. He came but says Mr C. is not serious. He does feel better this eve. Went to Ngiro & had Surridge fix brakes.

Thur. Nov. 12

A boy came & asked Jno to take Tipits to hospital as he is sick. So as Elija was worse I suggested he go too. I fear his trouble is appendicitis. Another day wasted away. Now they want to go to Salt Swamp for picnic Sat. & Clarke - he’s better. Very bad head.

Fri. Nov. 13

Got a nice lot of letters ready for post tomorrow. Are planning on going unless Mr. C. is very ill. He is worse today so wont go along. Cloudy most all day. but no rain.

Sat. Nov. 14

Left by 10 for the Ngiro & then the Salt swamp toward Guriguri. Mr Surridge went with us but couldn’t come on over here too busy. Had a pleasant day. Letter from S’s at Letein. Had no trouble at all that far. roads fine! Went to C’s for music by his request & as we left he asked J. to catch a fish for him & J. did.

Sun. Nov. 15

J. took down the fish & jello this morning & he seemed quite cheerful & very pleased with both. No P.M. meeting for it began to rain just at 3. Jack was naughty this morn. but came this eve to ask pardon. Read Mr. Riebes art. in Ev. C. this eve. Very good. Wrote them.

Mon. Nov. 16

Mr. C. was here this eve & we were having tea when some men from Sotik drove in to his place. They came for fish. No mail but the paper. Usual work. Jno at the road up the ridge. C asked us down but we didn’t go because of those men.

Tues. Nov. 17

Went to C’s for music. & 9 oclock soup. Nyakeiru came & we sewed yellow dresses for the girls. Milaun brot wood. Wrote Miss Fulton. Kapirondoi wants worm medicine so told him not to eat.

Wed. Nov. 18

Locusts here but most have left again. Nyakeiru came again & this time brot a load of wood too. I’m to make a dress for her & suit for James, for Sh. 4. of material that came from home. Big mail to be in tomorrow. Guess Mr. Edwards will drive over & get it.

Thur. Nov. 19

Yes, Mr. E. went for mail & got a nice lot. Lovely letter from the boys & one from Floyd. Went to Mr C’s for music. Am now getting on with John’s sweater & when that’s done I have yarn for mine. Always plenty to do. Oldubois left this P.M. moving to Ngong.

Fri. Nov. 20

Prayer Day. Jno & Mr. E. both went up road today. This P.M. Mashipei, S’s new boy, came in with note from them in Lemik valley & almost out of gas. Want us to come & bring some. but it rained hard here & in that direction too so John doesn’t want to go. Then too the expense.

Sat. Nov. 21

Men worked on road. Milaun helpt. came down ab’t 11 & I went up with lunch. Baked 3 Xmas cakes today. Got pretty nice. Also bread because S’s are coming in on Mon. so they said if we don’t go out, & they know now we aren’t going.

Sun. Nov. 22

Every thing as usual. Locusts camped right here last night & are here still tonight. The banana in center of garden is stript. Read a good article from Ev. Christian tonight. So helpful. Asked Mr E. if he ever had Bible in school or S.S. but he hadn’t. Mother & father attend C of E. Church twice every Sun.

Mon. Nov. 23

S’s came ab’t 10. Curry & rice for dinner. & then we were there to supper. Men went to C’s for music. Locusts still here. A couple of little chicks have died. Don’t know what the trouble is. S’s want to go again on Fri to Weieki.

Tues. Nov. 24

Wanjere ironed. Kashisha butchered. I got meat for Sh. 5. I’d like sheep again but don’t know where to get it. Got nice bunch of letters off. Several people summoned because of not paying the required hut tax.

Wed. Nov. 25

Nice rain this P.M. S’s may not leave before Mon. Every one, especially Mr. Edwards getting Xmas letters off. Jno drives up to work on the ridge road every day by himself. Then brings down load of chunks. Sewed Nyakeiru’s dress & James’ suit.

Thur. Nov. 26

Thanksgiving Day. Shaffers & Mr. C. here to dinner at 6:30 then Mrs. S. played & also the phono. Mr. C. expecting guests but they haven’t come. He is not feeling very well.

Fri. Nov. 27

Went to Mr. C’s for music as his new records came. Notice of 3 parcels at office for me. One must be from Cora. That’s all I know about. We somehow all feel rather punk today. Mrs. S. says “it’s the morning after the night before”.

Sat. Nov. 28

Baked & ab’t 11 we got into S’s car & went up & met John where we lunched last week & had lunch. Then S’s & I picked up wood. filled the trunk. J & Mr. E. came home a bit ahead of us. Baked do-nuts.

Sun. Nov. 29

Practiced for Xmas - the Ten Virgins. Meetings as usual. S’s will stop at office & pay customs on my parcels. No meeting tonight. J. tired & Mrs. S. headache. I got things ready for S’s to take to Narok & Kijabe. & Nairobi if they go.

Mon. Nov. 30

S’s left for Ndulele. Wanjere finished up today - said he’d be back tomorrow with kibandi to sign off. Had long talk & argue with Kapirorei. I only took him on this month so he could see how W. did things & now he wont stay unless he gets big pay to cover food & clothes. He has promised to stay til Sun. & try it out. I thot I could help him but he is very unreasonable. & I’m sure wont stay the month for what I think is big pay. Nothing very unusual during the month.

Tues. Dec. 1

And now we are winding up 1931. How fast we’ve sailed thro the year. Kapirorei came this morn. but he surely is dumb ab’t things. Ironed a little but very poorly. I’ll not give him more than 9. so I suppose he will go when the week is finished. Went to C’s for music.

Wed. Dec. 2

Major Dawson came today for lesson. Gave permission to make any road we wanted to. J. wants to work up the hill & join the Kijabe road below Ndulele. May work at it Jan. mo. Sewed white tennis gown.

Thur. Dec. 3

So rainy this P.M. we had no prayer mtg. Nyakeiru brot wood. It’s raining tonight. We are grateful. Jno brot down large timbers for the bridge tween here & Olle Naisho. Was elated over the little work because of the car. Wrote Cora Beth.

Fri. Dec. 4

Rainy most all day. Jno cleaned out the tank this A.M. & ab’t noon it started to rain & is still at it so has filled in a bit already. Took paper to school & had children make chains for Xmas. Some mail. Bible Searchers came.

Sat. Dec. 5

Mrs. D. wrote Miss Mathys is coming back with Ss. Rain again tho the men worked at the road above Clarkes. They got very wet. all had baths before lunch. Rained all P.M. & still at it. not hard but keeps things wet. Usual Sat. work.

Sun. Dec. 6

Wonder where the Barnetts are today. Usual mtgs. sprinkled a bit while we were in mtg this P.M. but not much. Took asperin & no lunch. Read a Keswick address. Started letter to Mrs B.

Mon.* Dec. 7

Kapirorei thinks he can’t work for Sh. 9/ so guess he wont be back tomorrow. Wash all got dry. Jack started it & K. finished after school. Perhaps I can get Parmale to help til the end of the year. Kashisha brot mail. Got local beef so wont send tomorrow as I’ll need Jack.

Tues. Dec. 8

Only Sitoya & Milaun at school & they wanted to go early so let them & I came & ironed. Rainy this A.M. & also during the night. Parmale brot letter from S’s at Ndulele. Go to Wieiki this week. Jno working at the road up the hill. Didn’t get to see Parmale today. I start fire early so break. is on time.

Wed. Dec. 9

More rain last night & this A.M. In P.M. it clears a bit & then locusts fly. Hope the rain kills ‘em. Most every one making garden. Parmale came & I proposed. he has gone to think! Mushrooms for din. & sup. Mr E & I but not Jno.

Thur. Dec. 10

Parmale will work @ .50 a day & no school. Boys want translation work. Then Arith & work at Songs only. S. & M. are all that come these days. Heavy rain went over dam last night. Found we had not marked papers correct so am sending corrections. Several letters off again.

Fri. Dec. 11

No rain today but sprinkle this eve. Locusts stay right around here. & when sun peeps out they fly. Had letter from Mr Edwards he can’t come for Xmas. Nephew will stay but may go early in Jan. Sent us another cheque. Shaffers have sent for things. Kuyoni came back. They go to Kijabe tomorrow.

Sat. Dec. 12

Milaun took things to Narok & brot meat. A new fellow helpt on the road but Jno doesn’t want him again. no good. Had talk with Edwards. He has no confidence in himself when it comes to speaking Masai. I told him to make it a matter of prayer. He said he was thinking of that this P.M. Mr. Clarke is back.

Sun. Dec. 13

Mr. C. sent up word he was off. We don’t know where or why. Meetings as usual. Lovely sunny day. No sign of rain. Took walk up thro the village. Fighting head ache all day & thot once I’d have to go to bed but while reading from Keswick addresses it seemed to get better.

Mon. Dec. 14

Letter from Mrs. Hodson that she has plums. So am sending for some. Sitoya must go to Narok tomorrow so we will have no school. Parmale washed. Notice in paper of accident in which J.A. Ellison was killed. I’m sure that must be Alfred. Motor byke ran into train.

Tues. Dec. 15

Got dark but no rain. Sitoya had to go to Narok. so we had no school. I went to P.M. school to help a bit. Took tea to Jno on road & staid til noon. Made noodles & baked bread. Mixed bread for Kuyoni. Ordered meat from Kinyanjui - he kills tomorrow.

Wed. Dec. 16

And now C. is 21 & really independent. Wrote them today. Turia will go to Narok tomorrow. Paper says big mail came in on Sun. so I hope for a few letters. Rained hard this P.M. Got meat for Sh 10/ for Mrs. S & me. Looks nice. Got the hump.

Thur. Dec. 17

Got quite a number of letters. Boys sent some pictures – pre-trip. A note from Mrs S. to say the program is tonight. They’ll come in tomorrow. Had things ab’t ready for them tonight as I expected them to eat here tho Mrs S. said Kuyoni should do food.

Fri. Dec. 18

They came in ab’t 5. and had swims & then cafeteria supper here - on the veranda. Brot lots of things ordered & unordered. The groceries are fine & the linen from Ireland is lovely too. Jno is at the bridge.

Sat. Dec. 19

Ruth Marie helpt make ginger bread men. & I baked beans for supper tomorrow night in the woods back of S’s. No more rain these days. lovely & sunny just like spring at home.

Sun. Dec. 20

A.M. meetings as usual. Practiced in S.S. We rung the P.M. bell & waited for most a half hour & no one came - or only 2 women so we came home & then several young men came but we had no mtg. Mrs S practiced the 10 girls.

Mon. Dec. 21

Mr. E. has had a parcel at office waiting to be declared so I suggested we drive over & he give me a lesson. We did. We got a parcel too also S’s. and we got the plums from Mrs Hodson. They are lovely. Took us too long so no language lesson for E.

Tues. Dec. 22

And today she [sister Alice] is 49! Ss & Mathys over & played Rigoletto. I started Als letter. Got several ready to go in the morning. Made sea foam & fondant. Straining honey I bot from Soibi.

Wed. Dec. 23

Last day of school. How well I remember a year ago. [John sick; ended up going to Kijabe.] Jno is feeling rather punk these days too with a bad cold but works every day. Were to have prayer mtg at S’s but Jno went to bed after supper & every one busy. Edwards went swimming by moonlight. Mathys & I walked down with him.

Thur. Dec. 24

Kinanjui went for mail on bike & got in after dark. & then none from Kijabe. Program went off very well. Milaun went to Narok so only Elija, Parmale & K. for it. Sitoya decorated but didn’t come to program. Everything pretty well ready for tomorrow. There is sort of Xmas feel in the air.

Fri. Dec. 25

Got up & rung the bell for early mtg. Mr S. led it. Good crowd out. Sent gifts over to S’s for the tree. Ab’t 9:30 we went & there was a short program. Mr S. laughed so couldn’t sing then gifts. Jno got record & I box of candy & vase. all very nice & dinner there. Then quiet PM & supper here & music. “Record breaking” day for Mr. S broke one & I broke Mr. C’s that we had borrowed for school. Hope to get in when we go to Nairobi.

Sat. Dec. 26

This is the day after the night before. Mr E. has been talking much of what they are doing at home. but seems to enjoy things here too. I had no baking to do but didn’t do any thing else much either. Men still at the bridge ’tween here & Ollenaishos. Took tea down. Didn’t quite finish it. the bridge I mean. To Shaffers for new records.

Sun. Dec. 27

S.S. and A.M. meeting. Milaun has left for awhile so I taught the little ones & K. the others. Parmale didn’t come. S’s to Narok this P.M. & only 5 women came to mtg so I had mtg with them. A sing & then read aloud from a book ab’t miss. methods - by Mr. Allen. Very interesting & we hope to read every evening & get it finished this week.

Mon. Dec. 28

Had asked Ss for a soup supper & birthday cake. I baked & Miss M. iced. Then ab’t 4 P.M. came Devitt driving Int. truck & Kenneth Saum, Misses Moody, Holman & Junod with him. The boys sleep on S’s veranda & the 3 girls up stairs in one room. 15 for supper. & we had a jolly time. Nyakeiru worked in the garden for me.

Tues.* Dec. 29

I had promised Devitt a birthday cake so had to do it. Made orange filling - and again Miss M. iced it. Took picnic lunch below the falls. Then at 4 tennis & swimming & again all here to supper. Took pictures of the crowd this P.M. Some played checkers others read. I have a very bad head & go to bed early.

Wed. Dec. 30

Took lunch up river a bit above ram. Some staid & rested there. The 3 ladies eat here & Devitt & Kenneth Saum at Shaffers. Prayer mtg tonight & then some lantern pictures afterward. Devitt & Holman talking on veranda. I fear there has been some misunderstanding.

Thur. Dec. 31

They left right after lunch & Miss Mathys. It seems empty around here. So glad Edwards is still here. A lovely mail tonight - letters & rolls & rolls of papers. Wish the crowd had staid & we could have kept watch night together. Miss H. is sad ab’t their talk last night & what it revealed.

And still it is. [Arrow drawn to “looking unto Jesus” from previous year.] There is little change in the hearts of the people, I fear. The big event of the year was the Exam in Nov. of which we have not yet received the returns. Olduboi left. Maitei in prison. Edwards stay has been most pleasant. I do hope he has learned to trust the Lord. Lora got me the new diary. We have them alike. Will I fill it? God knows, so I don’t worry.

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