Florence
Minch Stauffacher Diary – 1932.
Index
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.
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.
And now we have begun the year. & I, this book.
How will it end? The 3 men went to the road. mostly to see
where to make it. Took lunch. Parmale didn’t want work this
mo. Kap. said he was sick so I had a good time - 3 qts of
ketchup for Conf. & baked cookies.
Sat. Jan. 2
Yesterday when the men returned they decided not to
go to Loitokitok now but make the road. So Mr. Edwards left
by todays lorry. Mrs S & I took him over. Its been hot
& my head aches. & the house is empty without Mr. E.
We are going camping next week. saw Mulungit.
Sun. Jan. 3
Good crowd out this A.M. In P.M Mrs S. & I
taught Swahili choruses. Rained hard. Just as we finished J.
called us & said Rainbows had come. They staid only for
supper. Billy is a nice boy. They are much as usual. all
working so had to get back. Started letter to boys.
Mon. Jan. 4
Camp. Stream beyond hi bridge. The men thot we
better move out today. Parmale washed & ironed. Mr. C.
came about 10. Got in last eve. He is not agreed that this
road is a good thing. J & I came out ab’t 3. S’s were
just ready to leave when Dawson drove up for language. Have
a nice camp. 7 workers - so should accomplish something.
Brot lots to do.
Tues. Jan. 5
It is very pleasant here in camp. I got quite a bit
of typing done & Mrs S. was sewing. The men are working
very hard. Moved the bridge & are cutting the road on
from here. 3 more came to work. Read awhile tonight by the
big fire.
Wed. Jan. 6
Mrs S. is getting meals today & I will
tomorrow. Wrote at Ruth & finished some letters this
P.M. but the time passes so fast. We do not know what we
will do ab’t staying out. must get more food for men soon.
No reading - all tired.
Thur. Jan. 7
The men announced another improvement on the road.
It will soon be so straight & fine that we’ll be at
Kijabe before we know it. Wrote a general letter. 8 copies.
Almost finished typing Ruth. Mr S. & I may drive home
tomorrow for more supplies. Read aloud tonight.
Fri. Jan. 8 Home
When men came for A.M. tea they announced they’d
like to go home this P.M. so here we are back home. had a
nice swim & supper there. Mr. Clarke came for swim but
sat & talked instead. Jno went to hear records. I got
letters ready for post. Nice to be here.
Sat. Jan. 9
Men went to Narok for gas & mail & when
they came back they had about decided to go to Narosero. So
we packed chop box & they left ab’t 3:30. Will be back
Mon. Ram wont go. Are carrying water from stream. S’s here
to supper. R.M. sleeps here.
Sun. Jan. 10
Milaun turned up yesterday so took the meeting
today. Mrs. S. drilled them on Swahili choruses. I staid
with children. Men came just at supper time. John had been
sick & broke something on car. Had mt’g this eve over
there.
Mon. Jan. 11
Men got off on the road by 9 A.M. Parmale washed at
the pond. Mrs S. washed blankets. I eat over there & get
meals. so she can sew. Men forgot butter. Are sending
Mashipei & he will stay with them & help. Kapirondoi
didn’t want to go - but did.
Tues. Jan. 12 Mrs. Farnsworth 1885
Harry D. went down to see if he could start the ram
& he did & its pumping fine. My its nice to have
plenty of water again. Parmale went to Narok with letters.
Kinyanjui is going to kill on Thur. so didn’t send for any
meat. Mended all day. So am ready to go at dress.
Wed. Jan. 13
Tank was running over this morning tho we had 2
faucets open. Has pumped fine all day. Garden things seem so
grateful. The nice white leghorn was dead this morning.
Swelled head. Got quite a bit done at dress. Walked to
Sitoyas this eve. Kapirorei is sick.
Thur. Jan. 14
Worked at dress between interruptions. Kinyanjui
killed an ox. The meat seems lovely. I got 24 lbs to corn
for Conf. Prayermtg this P.M. 9 out. Olduboi is here.
Mulungit called & had quite a chat ab’t school. Mr
Clarke called. Just back from Nairobi.
Fri. Jan. 15
Men didn’t come. Guess its taking longer than they
thot. Letter from Dawson asking ab’t driving up to Oljoro.
Told him Jno would be here Mon. Had Shaffers here all day. I
baked bread & ironed. Am to eat breakfast there
tomorrow.
Sat. Jan. 16
Men sent Kap. to tell us they’d be in by 1:30. We
ate early din. they came ab’t 2. Bad head til this eve. Took
asperin. Mr. C. her to supper & we down there for music.
Almost finished knitting sweater. Quite a nice mail. Korean
cloth is there.
Sun. Jan. 17
Meetings as usual & attended as usual. Rained
just as meeting closed at noon. Mrs S. & I practiced
Swahili choruses again. Read in Rob’t Allan’s book ab’t
indigenous church tonight. Didn’t rain much. We hope for
more.
Mon. Jan. 18
Jno worked on road til we called. I went to S’s for
tea & while there Clarke came then Dawson & Denning
& later Mr Deck. They left to go up the ridge. but we
fear they wont get thro. Fish supper at Shaffers. Parmale
washed. Korean goods as ordered but I ordered some wrong.
Tues. Jan. 19
Mrs S used irons til 11 - then I finished mine
still before we ate. Darned 2 sweaters for Mrs S. finished
knitting J’s so I could sew it up. Think ‘twill do very
well. Am now at the red border. Ram is going fine. Mr S.
fixed oven door.
Wed. Jan. 20
Typed songs & fixed Nol’s song book. Did a
number of little things. S’s went swimming by moonlight.
twas lovely. We went down but not in. Jno making magazines
into books. Met at S’s for prayer.
Thur. Jan. 21
Jno was going to the road in the car & found
the battery out. They went to Narok but it only starts when
pushed. Elders came this morning & said no they
would not have Milaun to teach. but Elija only!!! Tonight
there is a shauri on. The broken part came today for car.
Sh. 50.
Fri.* Jan. 22
Doing last things. Elders don’t want to do things
here themselves. but Milaun has decided to go to Bible
School & we shall see when we return about what I’ll
do with school. S’s went for moonlight swim. We are having
hot baths here & washing hair.
Sat. Jan. 23
Got away by 8. Mr. S. drove our car because of run
down battery. I rode with Mrs. S. part way. I forgot tea so
had rather thin lunch. Both Mrs. S. & I had bad heads.
mine is better tonight. We were 26 for supper. More will
come tomorrow or Mon. Very dry around here. Milaun has come
to Bible School.
Most every one went either to native meeting or
S.S. at the station. I wrote the girls & lay down some.
Mr. McK. had P.M. meeting & Skoda & Weppler prayer
& praise meeting tonight. More will come tomorrow. 2
came today.
Mon. Jan. 25 Miss Holman
Jno takes all early mtgs. More came in today so we
now number abt. 40. Jno & I went to Moodys for lunch.
Miss Junod leaves on Thurs. Meetings all good. Mr Guilding
had “Love”. it was very good. So was Pitway. Went to Davises
& heard boys’ records but not very clear.
Tues. Jan. 26
Jno followed Mr. Pitway on “Peace”. Mr. P. was
fine. So searching and straight. God bless him & help
us. There seems such frivolity somehow. Mr. Ford spoke
tonight. very good. Clara drew a picture & spoke. 45
puddings to dish up now.
Wed. Jan. 27 Ruth Marie
Such a lovely mail today. Huge letter from the
boys. etc. Mrs. Davis must go home soon as possible. Dr.
Jex-Blake says. Went to see Grandma Myers this P.M. &
got our record that Mr. Edwards got for us. Mr. Reynolds
showed pictures tonight. Miss Mathys had a party for Ruth
Marie.
Thur. Jan. 28
Mr. Capen, Norman Johnson & Miss Lovell all
down with fever. Mrs Guilding & I had a nice visit.
Womens meeting this eve lasted late. So many reports. All
mtgs. very good. Parents meeting at 4. I didn’t go. Miss S.
not feeling very well. She does too much. Blaikies are at
Davises.
Fri. Jan. 29
Mrs Hoyt & Martha came. Also Mrs Walgren. Mr.
Pitway was very good again. so searching. Prayer groups this
eve. 6 of us met in Mrs. Innises room. Some of the men met
at the Bible School.
Sat. Jan. 30 Grace Wight 1910 Mr. Barnett 1876
Mr. & Mrs. Butcher & 2 children & Mr.
Glover came this eve. & all sick ones are up so we set
table for 6 in sitting room. besides the 12 children in boys
sitting room. Prayer groups again tonight. Biz. mtg this
A.M. Blaikies came to my room yesterday & we had a nice
visit.
Sun. Jan. 31
The last day. and a blessed one too. Went to native
service. saw Wambui - she has run away from her father who
was selling her to Njuguna. Says Syabei folks are praying we
wont return. Well, the Lord is faithful. He will
answer our prayers yet for them. but they are not easily led
these days. Sort o’ hate to close Conf. We have had blessed
fellowship. & boys in kitchen have been fine.
What a full month! & such a hectic life. I’m
not fond of. We do wonder what is waiting for us in the
future. We want Him to open the doors of service. If
it seems best to go out among the people that’s what we
want. God help us to know His will.
Mon. Feb. 1
Had breakfast a bit earlier than the others - about
10 of us. Saw lots of our people in Nairobi. Skoda is a good
driver. Met S’s at the stream they said Mbaei had come &
was very angry about Wambui. Got to Miss Moodys ab’t 6:15.
She had supper for us.
Tues. Feb. 2 -Home-
Got in about 3:30. Brot Keshia. He was supposed to
watch the tire but kept saying it wasn’t bad & when we
got to the Syabei it was so flat that it had ruined the
tube. Took 40 min. to put in new one. Threatened rain on all
sides: got into a bit of mud but none here. Heavy rain Sat.
Met Mr. Clarke on way to N. Gave us half sheep.
Wed. Feb. 3
Mulungit came this eve & we talked quite
awhile. He had tea & bread. Said they wanted to begin
school right away. Guess they don’t care if I help or not.
Cleaned my room & got things all put away. Want to hold
nightly mtgs if others are agreed. Shauri Fri night.
Thur. Feb. 4
Sent Kapirondoi for mail but he didn’t return. Just
at prayer mtg time it started to rain hard. so no mtg. We
read aloud from Jonathan Edwards, this eve. Went with Jno on
the road. & had lunch but forgot matches.
Fri. Feb. 5
K. got back ab’t noon. Said mail came in at 7 last
eve. Elija began school yesterday. No shauri tonight because
it has been raining hard since dark. Made peach &
pineapple jam. Jno walked to his work on the road. I
intended going tomorrow but too wet now.
Sat. Feb. 6
Did a bit of baking but not much for any one to do.
Parmale cleaned a bit. Jack helpt & we sowed some seeds
in the garden. Rain again this late PM. Read aloud & had
prayer for tomorrows meetings. Don’t know what they may try.
M’s don’t bring enuf milk.
Sun. Feb. 7
Had A.M. meeting. Children came very late to S.S.
and not so many as usual & only 24 to mtg but some of
each old & young. No P.M. meeting but night mtg was
announced but it is still raining pretty hard. so we aren’t
going over. We read this P.M.
Mon. Feb. 8
Parmale washed & all got dry. Jack took letters
& brot others a few from home. I had posted one to Aunt
A. & he brot it back by mistake & as there is one
from her its alright. I’ll do it over. He was soaking wet.
Rained very hard. but mtg.
Tues. Feb. 9
Rained again but mostly over by mtg time. Just the
three again tonight: Sitoya, Kapirondoi & Susana. But if
they 3 are led by the Spirit God can do great things. I
helpt some in school. Sitoya comes for going over Psalms.
Wed. Feb. 10
Only a little sprinkle today. Not even very cloudy.
Snappy cold this morning. We make fire every evening so its
pleasant for mtg. Elija acted very curt today as I helpt a
bit with Arith. O he is so important! 3 out.
Thur. Feb. 11
P.M. prayer mtg, 9 out & while at the eve mtg
Davises & Farnsworths drove up. F’s are in S’s house
& Dr. & Mrs up stairs. Just came for a drive &
to get a change. Hope they’ll stay til Sat. but they say
not. Brot lovely peaches. 4 out to mtg tonight.
Fri. Feb. 12
They couldn’t stay over so left after dinner &
by this time are no doubt home. Dr. had bad cold & Mrs.
F staid in bed too this morning. Morimo came out to mtg
tonight. Baked corn bread. Started bread & will leave
Parmale to do it tomorrow. I go on road.
Sat. Feb. 13
Got off after breakfast. Had a lovely day. and did
a lot of work. I spent the first hr. throwing stones out of
the road & collecting dry roots to bring home. Wrote Mrs
Westervelt & knitted at J’s sweater. I’ll soon get it
done. Am wearing my new Indian made shoes.
Sun. Feb. 14
My new shoes aren’t much good. too large. I sent
them the pay but told them they are not good. A.M. meeting
was attended well. 5 elders there. Jno seemed specially free
& full of his subject. P.M. 4 only. this eve 11.
Mon. Feb. 15
Sent K. for mail but there was none. Sent Roaches
some peaches. 5 out to P.M. meeting & several this eve.
Sitoya said people say Jno’s words yesterday were very good.
Olduboi comes at night & sits way back in dark. Hope God
will deal with him.
Tues. Feb. 16
Elija is quite sick again with appendicitis.
Kinyanjui is teaching school. Sitoya & I get good licks
in each day at correcting Psalms and songs. Olduboi there
again tonight. I pray he & S may make peace.
Wed. Feb. 17
Got an order off to Wards. Asking Barnetts to bring
it out. Only 2 out this P.M. Elija still quite sick. May he
repent of his wrong doings & the Lord heal him. Parmale
asked to be let off & I let him go he has not been
happy. Says his sister is ill.
Thur.* Feb. 18
Jack came and helpt & will help what he can.
Rained pretty hard this P.M. but still we had mtg. Will send
Jack for mail early as it may rain. some of the little girls
come for singing mostly. Brot S’s single bed down from up
stairs for me. I don’t like the way beds are arranged but
can be altered when we get another single bed.
Fri. Feb. 19
Mail came as we were ab’t ready for mtg. Letter
from Chas. says he has $800. for us of estate money. Jack
did not post the letters but brot all back - just left in
bag. S’s want things so have asked Morima to go in morn.
Sat. Feb. 20
Jack cutting wood - but he doesn’t like it. I went
on road with Jno. drove the car some - run a thorn into tire
had to fix it. Clarke came in last eve. so came to supper
& we there for music. Very pleasant.
Sun. Feb. 21
Got to A.M. meeting but to none other - as my head
was very bad. I took asperin but it didn’t seem to help.
only 23 to A.M. & one to P.M. & none tonight. The
devil is surely busy these days.
Mon. Feb. 22
Jack went for mail & parcel Haji Aboo had for
us. It turned out to be a box of candy & tin of
chocolates from MacIntoshes - we think. letter from Mrs
Guilding telling of Grace’s engagement.
Tues. Feb. 23
Feeling pretty bum but went to meetings. Can’t eat
any thing & head wants to ache. Jno worked out where he
left water bottle & found it. Clarkes engine was broke
yesterday when he wanted to start for Nairobi so took ours
out. so we hope he’ll be back on Sat.
Wed. Feb. 24 Fathers 83rd birthday
All work as usual. Nol. weeded in S’s garden. Jno
worked in ours. Keeps threatening rain but none comes. Usual
number out again. I can’t seem to pep up. feel really ill
tonight.
Thur. Feb. 25
Had an awful night last night. Rested little and
have lain down most all day. Can’t eat. only drink water.
besides bad stomach & bowels my head has been awful.
Nice mail came but couldn’t read much of it. Jno called both
P.M. & eve but no one came.
Fri. Feb. 26
Thank God I feel better tonight. Have eaten a bit
today & have had very little headache. Nol. worked
again. No meetings. A little rain. Jno at the road near by.
Notice that our remittance has come- $95. = 541 Sh. Thats
good Ex.
Sat. Feb. 27 Mother’s 78th birthday.
How well I remember a yr. ago. Just the day before
J came home & I had our room all fixed up. Hard rain
this P.M. & wind. Some one drove into C’s this eve but
not his car. I cleaned. Jno wanted me to go on road but it
seemed too much of a walk. This is the 10th day
for me. Makes me feel bum.
Sun. Feb. 28
Got very black & threatened but only sprinkled.
Felt awful when I went to S.S. but thot I’d do it then come
home but felt better & staid for all. 3 out to mtg
tonight. No mtg this P.M. Shall try PM.s this week.
Mon. Feb. 29
This is an extra day- should have accomplished
wonders. but didn’t. Jack brot mail. Nothing much. Told Jack
I’d give him sh. 8 for Mar. if he works well. Had P.M. mtg
but not tonight. It got very black this eve but nothing has
come of it. Nol. washed. She said Mbaei was hunting for
Wambui - said she had come.
But she hasn’t - and if she knows when she is well
off she will stay where she is. I surely haven’t done much
in school but it goes on. Sitoya & I have gone over
quite a few Psalms & songs. So the mo. hasn’t been
wasted.
Tues. Mar. 1
Stacys move to Kewanee today. Returns from Ed.
Dept. came yesterday. Parmale & Kinyanjui did not pass -
others got distinction in Arith. & Hygiene & Geog.
They have to be filled out & then returned for Director
of Ed. to sign & then they go to the boys. They are
pleased.
Wed. Mar. 2
Work as usual. Ironed. Jno at the road every day.
Not much sign of rain today. Opened the box of candy from
MacIntoshs. It is lovely. Ate 2 pieces. it was so good.
& I was hungry for it. Nol. came very late to prayermtg.
Thur. Mar. 3
My head was not comfy this morn. & when I tried
to vomit this P.M. I found it was the choc. I ate yesterday.
didn’t go to mtg. Quite a nice mail. Letter to tell us Mr.
Day died Jan. 15. Dr. Arthurs are coming on the 15th.
Fri. Mar. 4
Better today & henceforth I go slow on the
chocolates. Mr. C. has come. Jno went down for a bit. Etta
& Wambui have joined the catecumen class at Kjb. I asked
Sitoya why they wouldn’t here & he said they’d have been
beaten.
Sat. Mar. 5
Baked & cleaned. Mr. Clarke here to lunch. Then
they went to get Mr. Surridge to put our engine back. but
found he had skipt the country 4 days ago. no one knows
where - his boy is trying to put it in. Hope he knows how.
Mr. C. is troubled. Nice supper there & music.
Sun. Mar. 6
Just as we came from meeting Mr. & Mrs. Ashton
- vet. who has just moved to Narok drove in. We wanted them
to stop for lunch but they brot a picnic lunch & went
below Clarkes to eat it. Mr C. brot our car up. starts
alright so hope its fixed. Rained terribly hard from 2 P.M.
No mtgs.
Mon. Mar. 7
Nolmisheni came & washed. Kinyanjui brot the
mail last eve so didn’t send Jack today. Got dark but no
rain. So am going with Jno on the road tomorrow. No mtgs
this week. Seems nice to have P.M. & eve.
Tues. Mar. 8
Nice time on road. Jack wanted to go to Narok so he
posted my letters. Thot we weren’t going to get started as
starter wouldn’t work & engine wouldn’t start when
pushed. After fussing quite a time found the gas was turned
off.
Wed. Mar. 9
School & garden work. Called girls for sewing
but only 2 came & Susana. She is going to teach them. No
rain again. Guess I’ll go on the road again tomorrow. Sitoya
can work by himself if he wants to. Started night school
last night.
Thur. Mar. 10
Went on the road but didn’t stay as late as we
wanted to because it threatened rain. But that was all til
evening then it rained. Old Masai man brot milk I promised
him salt. if we go out tomorrow. Only 3 at prayer mtg.
Fri. Mar. 11
Jno did not go out so the Masai brot another gourd
of milk and wanted his salt & pepper. Jack went for
mail. Nice letter from the boys & several others but
none from Shaffers. More rain tonight.
Sat. Mar. 12
Asked Kinyanjui to get nice cut of meat because of
Arthurs coming on Tues. but I fear if rains keep on they
wont come. Cleaned a lot but didn’t bake much. Rained very
hard again this eve.
Sun. Mar. 13
Meetings this A.M. as usual. Not many out ab’t 30.
Announced evening meeting but it rained quite hard again.
Wonder if Arthurs will try to come thro. Reading from
Ironsides “Revelation”.
Mon. Mar. 14
No rain here & wonder if it is pleasant at
Kericho where Dr. Arthurs are supposed to be. Nol. washed. I
gave Kenea a dress for Nol.’s wage. Jno at the road. Letter
from Ss. They are helping put up a church.
Tues. Mar. 15
Yes they came about 5:30. Parmale was helping all
day & will again tomorrow. Arthurs had tea at Roaches.
They say Dawson is at Ngong taking language exam. They sleep
at Shaffers. I got letters ready for them to post.
Wed. Mar. 16
Dr. wanted to see Tameno & M. so they went up
after breakfast but M. had cleared out. T. is better. We had
tea ab’t 9:30 & then they left. Lost a side curtain near
here will send it to them. No rain today.
Thur. Mar. 17
Went on the road with Jno. This eve asked Clarkes
man if he could call 5 men for us for next week & we
would go way out & work back. & camp out. Now this
eve it has rained again pretty hard. J. was to work in the
garden. Parmale dug over some of Shaffers.
Fri. Mar. 18
Prayer Day. Expected to have all A.M. at school but
Susana came to work at beans & got them all beaten out.
Quite a nice lot. I planted corn & beans for S’s. It
acts like it is going to rain. Such a gorgeous sunset. 4 men
came this A.M. I told them to come again.
Sat. Mar. 19
Our 4 men went on. couldn’t wait. We thot of
driving to Narok to see about some but it rained some. C’s
man will go tomorrow. Sort of packed the chop box. Did a bit
of everything. Don’t feel ambitious these days. Head
threatens much of the time.
Sun. Mar. 20
Meetings as usual. A good crowd of young men out.
Ab’t 1 an awful storm broke. Terrible wind & rain. Pond
went over dam a bit. Then we called for meeting this eve
& while there it rained pretty hard again. So no going
tomorrow tho there are 3 men here for work.
Mon. Mar. 21
Parmale washed. No rain so far. so perhaps we can
get off tomorrow. 2 men got food at Narok. Sort of getting
things together. Nice & sunny most all day so every
thing is dry. Sewed at bathing suit & typed more songs.
Wrote Mrs. Shaffer. They are having trouble ab’t getting a
church built.
Tues. Mar. 22
Got out & camp up by 10 A.M. Had some trouble
getting up the steep place above Clarkes but put in more
petrol. Everything is grown up big & one couldn’t tell
there had been a camp here 2 mos. ago. No rain here today.
Big fire & watched moon rise.
Wed. Mar. 23
Moved camp up hill. Much pleasanter but further
from water. A herd of cattle past & left a swarm of
flies. Work is going fine. The 3 men do very well when J. is
with ‘em. I teach Jack Arith & first chap. of John.
Thur. Mar. 24
Nice to have all day in camp without moving. Wrote
letters AM & knitted P.M. Have a nice lot of letters
ready to post. Moon is lovely these nights. Flies so bad all
day.
Fri. Mar. 25
Flies getting worse. Got a tin of milk from the
boys who have the cattle here. Jack left right after noon
with letters & will get meat too. John feels better
tonight than he has. The work goes on fine. I walked right
to the crossing this morn with the tea - missed Jno - but
found him as I came back.
Sat. Mar. 26
We got home a bit after 2. Bathed & read mail
that Geo. brot yesterday. Jno went to C’s but he was at
Narok. So went again. at supper time & brot him up and
we went down for music. Jack came so late with meat.
Sun. Mar. 27 Easter.
S.S. & A.M. meeting but rain this eve. We have
been watching clouds & weather - but don’t think it
rained enuf to soften the road much. Not very happy tonight
for Parmale & others & a lot of girls were in
swimming - boys naked. And in service this A.M. they sang a
special song! We can and do pray for them.
Mon. Mar. 28
Realized the office would not be open so sent no
one. We were ready to return to camp by 10. Now are set up
just a bit before we get to crossing. Nice place too. Susana
ironed while I baked the bread. Men had done almost nothing
on road.
Tues. Mar. 29
Keeps threatening rain but nothing yet. Water holes
have nice water. Went to fartherest end today & worked
back. Took lunch along. Lovely view of Mau & all between
from top. A good road all along & very little work.
Wed. Mar. 30
Bad head. Wrote at Malachi. Finished Riebe letter.
Jno did crossing today. Very good but worked too hard.
Locusts flying past today. Very dark clouds. Kilele ab’t
food. Don’t want potatoes & posho getting low. Rained at
dark.
Thur. Mar. 31
Rained some during night. Took lunch out today so
they could keep working. but threatened so came in early.
Have a good grade up but took some filling in. Started
Esther today.
Sort of a funny month. No very steady work for me
at anything but Jno has done well the last 2 wks at the
road. Shall be glad when it is done & we can stay home
again. I get tired of camp.
Fri. Apr. 1
Jack left after dinner with 2 gal. tins to get
petrol & mail. It only sprinkled here but looked as tho
it rained hard all around. Working on this side crossing
today. Will move back to bridge tomorrow.
Sat. Apr. 2 Aunt Ellen.
We are home. because we walked. Got all loaded
& tried to come but car wouldn’t pull up hill. tried
again & again. cleaned spark plugs & backed &
tried but guess the gas is too low. Brot one man. left 2.
Just missed a heavy rain here at home. Very tired. Parcel
from Lo.
Sun. Apr. 3
Meetings as usual. 7 out tonight counting 3
children. Am wearing shoes & dress that came in parcel.
Gum came also. & stockings. All very nice. Shaffers are
at Ngong. Ndilai & wife at Kajiado. Jno will go out to
car in morn. & come to bridge & after bread is baked
I’ll go out to bridge.
Mon. Apr. 4
Baked, washed & ironed. Parmale went for mail.
Jno went early with gas. and sent a man about 2 P.M. So are
all nicely set up at high bridge. and a good piece of new
road made up the hill. Rained some this eve.
Tues. Apr. 5
Rained during night too. Are ready to go at the
hard part of this stretch of road. There will be stone work
tomorrow. Got very dark this eve and very cold but
no rain. but Jno heard roar over Syabei way as tho it was
raining hard. Wrote Aunt Ellen.
Wed. Apr. 6
Jno worked so hard today but got the bad part done.
Word came from Syabei to say the dam had gone - that they
had very hard rain yesterday. Wrote Shaffers. Jno doesn’t
know ab’t building up the dam again but I’m sure the Narok
folks will want it.
Thur. Apr. 7
Sent Jack & the toto to Narok for mail &
load of posho. but they didn’t come back. I’m disappointed
for I expect home mail. Wrote Mrs. Steele & started the
boys’.
Fri. Apr. 8
Just as we finished breakfast the boys came. Jack
said he wanted to come on but the other one wouldn’t. I had
told them if they didn’t come there’d be no food. They are
sore ab’t it. Lovely mail- 2 letters from the boys.
Sat. Apr. 9
Sent Jack early for meat. We got in abt 3. Mr.
Clarke kindly asked us to supper. Did enjoy it so much. It
hailed terribly on Tues. & turned the water in the pond
so cold that the fish all died. Mr. C. has shut the dam but
dead fish lie all about, hundreds of them.
Sun. Apr. 10
Meetings as usual. Tameno had to say something
after the close of the meeting so I didn’t get to see the
women. Maj. Dawson & Mr C called & talked ab’t the
dam. Jno will get the car & work here this week.
Dawson’s men.
Mon. Apr. 11
Jno & Mr. C. fooled around all A.M. Men at dam.
Jno got the car & things. Wont wash til next week. Went
to school most all A.M. Mr. C. asked us down for supper
& eland meat. He doesn’t think it necessary to clean out
the pond so much. He will see Dawson tomorrow.
Tues. Apr. 12
Had asked Mr C. up to sup and just ab’t 5:30 Mr. S.
came with Mr. McK & Dr. D. He brot our bed of Davises -
¾ size. and groceries. Milaun came too. They want to go back
tomorrow. Mr McK sleeps at S’s. Dr. upstairs. Sitoya came to
school. We’ve caught up to Jno with Psalms.
Wed. Apr. 13
Every body busy all A.M. I had Musupa, one of the
workmen help or I’d been stumped. Had dinner & they got
off by 2. I had sewing class - 3 came. We are both tired
& sleepy & have had our prayer service & are
going to bed tho its only 7:30. Mrs Davis is to be at Cairo
by today.
Thur. Apr. 14 Miss Grindley.
Musupua cut wood & then went for mail. Nothing
much - a letter from Mrs. Lany to say she can’t come now. 10
out to prayer mtg today. Clear & bright as tho it never
intended to rain. Jno spaded a bit but his back troubles. He
worked too hard on the road.
Fri. Apr. 15
Prayer day. While in class with Sitoya he heard the
children singing bad songs. Guess I’ll have a talk with
Elija. Went to school tonight & played for them. 6 were
there. We had our service when I came back. Sitoya is going
to Ollolonga. He wants to move.
Sat. Apr. 16
Jack & I had a strenuous day. Washed up 3 rooms
& shifted all beds. Set up Mrs Davises new one for Jno.
Makes it much nicer in our room. Baked lots of do-nuts.
& bread too. Jno at the pond these days. Wrote Mrs. S.
Sun. Apr. 17
Services as usual. Such a bunch of young men &
boys out. If only they would all line up for Christ.
A good sing this eve. Quite a number out. Very clear &
sunny all day. like after rainy season. The grass is getting
quite brown.
Mon. Apr. 18
Nolmisheni washed. Lots of sheets because of extra
beds last week. Trying to rain this eve but isn’t coming
very hard. Sitoyas are going to leave soon. Go to Kijabe
first - then I don’t know where to. Writing the Aunts.
Rained hard this P.M. & at it still. More like
rainy season than any thing we’ve had before. 2 wks ago
today the dam went. Am helping Elija in school. but will
work at Psalms tomorrow with Parmale. Typed more new songs
Sitoya brot yesterday.
Wed. Apr. 20 - 1932
And now I’m 51. I don’t feel like it tho. Spent all
A.M. in school at Psalms & songs. the 3 boys were there.
Sitoya, Parmale & Kapirorei. Sewing this P.M. Some rain
this eve but not much. Dismissed the work men. Wrote the
girls.
Thur. Apr. 21
Parmale taught. Elija hurt his foot. I didn’t help
much after recess but ironed. Prayermtg this P.M. Tho it
rained a bit 7 were out. Raining hard this eve. Writing
Marselle.
Fri. Apr. 22
Quite a nice mail. Al & Mrs Hargrave wrote
birthday letters. Bad head, by bed time quite sick. Helpt in
school. Word from Kjb. They wont come til Sat. & Moody
& Holman are coming too. Hard rain.
Sat. Apr. 23
Head better. Baked some & cleaned a bit. Jack
cut wood. Men working at dam went to Narok can’t work these
days. too wet. Lengthened green dress. Finished Ms letter.
More rain but not so heavy.
Sun. Apr. 24
Meetings as usual. Singing mostly tonight.
Threatened rain but nothing came of it. Wrote Moody &
Shaffer. Wonder if all will be here next Sun. Jo & I
have been so quiet these mos.
Mon. Apr. 25
Kinyanjui came to school & rearranged classes -
put all into 2 classes! He says the children haven’t
progressed - and its because there are too many classes. I
told him its because Elija doesn’t know how to teach.
Tues. Apr. 26
Sent Kinyanjui for mail & meat. He got a very
nice piece. No mail but the paper. but there should be a big
mail on Thurs. I helpt in school.
Wed. Apr. 27
Got very dark all around but we got very
little. It is raining now some. Didn’t have sewing class
because it rained then. I ironed after doing school work.
Jno planted beans & peas.
Thur. Apr. 28
Morima went for mail. Some home letters &
papers. 5 out to prayer mtg. I intended helping in school
all AM but Sitoya came & we went over some songs.
Fri. Apr. 29
Heard Mr. C. came in and so J. went to ask him up
to supper but he asked us down. Surridge was there. Soibi
& Kinyanjui came to school to see what the children
knew. I wanted much to tell Soibi they didn’t get on because
Elija sat idle too much but I knew would be pesho. [Masai,
“for nothing”]
Sat. Apr. 30
Work went fine & had all done even to putting
flowers in S’s house & we had just finished our rest
when they came. Devitt with them. All had supper here.
Devitt is in S’s guest house the girls in the east room
upstairs.
And now our quiet uneventful days are at an end for
awhile. We are anticipating a lovely mo. of good fellowship
and plenty of picnics & fun. I’ve a pretty full program
planned but shall not fret if all doesn’t get done.
Sun. May 1
Fair crowd out to A.M. mtg and at lest 25 to P.M.
sing. Then to S’s for supper & our mtg. When we came
from P.M. sing - Mrs S. & me - Dawson etc were here
talking ab’t work on the dam. That made supper late.
Mon. May 2
Parmale washed. Clarke came to supper. Sold us a
sheep for Sh. 4. Mr. Devitt took Surridge home in S’s little
old Ford. if it runs Solomon, a native from Kjb will buy it.
C. was all packed to go to Nrb. tomorrow when a telegram
came saying he’s not wanted for another month. Music down
there.
Tues. May 3 Bekah Hurlburt.
Boiled pickled figs. Rained this P.M. Jno & 20
gov’t-sent men closed the dam today. Devitt got away ab’t
noon. Hope he is at Kjb by now. Girls spent the evening at
S’s. Wrote Mrs Keller. Did a few songs.
Wed. May 4
Just didn’t accomplish much of any thing. Miss M.
working at times for Kiku. hymns & I helpt some.
Enjoying mutton these days. Mr. C. came up to lunch. Isn’t
feeling well. Fever.
Thur. May 5
‘Twas
raining hard when we awakened this morning. but cleared
during the day. 10 out to prayer mtg. S’s are working at the
house & its getting on nicely: Veranda enclosed. West
end is bedroom & this end lengthens living room. To C’s
for music. Dam is finished.
Fri. May 6 Mrs. Probst.
K. went for mail. Brot letter from boys in which C.
says he is applying to A.I.M. Good. they may yet come out
together. K forgot to mail the letters so he goes early in
the morning again.
Sat. May 7
Baked bread, pie & cake & beans &
salmon. mostly for super together tomorrow night. Girls went
for early swim. Narok folks were in last night ab’t 10. used
spot light on car.
Sun. May 8!
Now we’ve been married 26 yrs. How they have flown.
God has been so good to us. Perhaps before another year is
past the boys will be here. I’m so glad C. has applied.
Elders came this eve to shauri - but ‘twas supper time. All
ate here.
Mon. May 9
Elders & both men were at it most all A.M.
mostly ab’t Kuyoni. It was settled Njuguna would release his
bid for Wambui if K. would get 4 cows in 10 days time.
Olduboi has asked 6 from Sitoya & I guess S. will give
them now & that affair will be closed. Then McK. can
give them a civil marriage.
Tues. May 10
We went to Clarkes for music last eve. Not Moody.
but we others. Rained on way home & harder yet after we
got here. Jno typing and Miss Moody too. She is working at
TT Std. Arith. Soibi wanted to know if I’d teach Elija for
next Exam. Elem. C. Miss M. told him it was too hard.
Wed. May 11
More rain. Mr. S. came to prayermtg. He is all in
& no wonder. he’s been working awful hard. but their
house will be much nicer when finished. Miss Moody busy at
Part II of Std TT Arith. I’m to do Part I.
Thur. May 12
Dalziels came. It was quite rainy today. they had
chains on. Ladies were to eat at Shaffers this eve & we
at Clarkes - but when D’s came I wanted them to come here.
However Mrs S. wouldn’t have it. The French Pres. has been
murdered by a Russian. Now what!
Fri.* May 13
Not feeling up to much. Took asperin for head. Seem
to be getting young again. Everybody went for a swim but the
old folks. They want to go for picnic tomorrow - plant sisal
to line the road - & take ladies to Narok. I can’t go
because of baking. Miss Holman carding wool.
Sat. May 14 R.E. Shaffer
They got off a bit after 8. Took lots of sisal to
plant to line up the road where it leaves the main road. Got
done & drove to Narok with the ladies before the mail
lorry was ready. All at Shaffers for supper as it is his
birthday. Baked bread, etc.
Sun. May 15
Meetings as usual. A good sing this P.M. Have all
these new songs to learn properly. Most are known after a
fashion. My its lonely without the ladies. Every body here
to supper. and short meeting. No rain.
Mon. May 16
Parmale washed. Cloudy but no rain. Worked at
Arith. Mr C. called & we went there for mutton dinner.
Says he has too much food, needs help to eat it. That Mr.
Kehrein would come but hasn’t yet. Jno worked in garden
today. Wrote the boys.
Tues. May 17
Lovely home mail letter from boys. Wanted some meat
but they didn’t kill. Mr. S. was cross at Mr. C. again but
guess it may blow over. Worked at Arith. and typed more
songs tonight but still more to do. The boys are so hoping
they can come out this fall - & we too.
Wed. May 18
Typing & working. Cut up oranges for marmalade.
Parmale does it so well. Mrs. S. is getting her curtains
made. Mr. S’s back has given out. No wonder he works too
hard. Mrs. S. led prayer mtg tonight.
Thur. May 19
Rather a hectic day. I prayed much for grace for
every need & I surely had needs. Just little things but
so annoying. Had a bad head too all day. To C’s for supper
& music. Home early. S’s borrowed “Rigoletti”.
Fri. May 20
Prayer Day. Had ours this eve. Dalziels moved over
here. Jno sawed the big weak springs & made a nice
single bed. Got a big leopard in a gun trap this P.M.
Letters from Moody & Holman. M. got a gift of money so
is booking passage for Aug.
Sat. May 21
Did baking & cleaning. Kapiroi got very mouthy
& spunky - really insolent so I shall let him go at the
end of the month. Perhaps Morima will work for me. Parmale
is hoping to go to Kijabe to school. Charades at S’s.
Sun. May 22 Cora’s 44th birthday.
Meetings as usual. All had supper at S’s and
meeting. Milaun brot mail. Lots of home mail. Boys’
pictures. Rs is nice but C’s isn’t. Paper says Lindberg
baby’s body was found - killed by blows on head. buried on
the estate. Awful.
Mon. May 23
All men at cars. Found cylinder broken. Parmale
washed long. Put up extra line. Every thing got dry by
evening tho it wasn’t very sunny. Mr. C. came along at lunch
time & ate with us. We went down early for music. came
back by 8:30. Finished typing Arith. Swimming.
Tues. May 24
Parmale only got half thro ironing. Got meat by
Wambogo. Rained during the night & may again as it’s
cloudy & still. S’s over & we had music. I corrected
the typed papers & now all is ready for Miss Moody.
Wed. May 25
Jack went with letters. Got a 10 lb. bag of Kenya
flour. just to tide over til Mombasa flour comes. Locusts
are flying both yesterday & today. Women sewing here.
Prayer mtg this eve. Jno led.
Thur. May 26
Prayer mtg - 6 out. Monkeys are so bad. Locusts are
flying. Chickens enjoyed a good feed. Acts like rain but
doesn’t. Garden is getting dry. Wambogo went for mail. Car
parts came. also sweater from Miss Harlow.
Fri. May 27
Trying to get up a picnic for tomorrow but no one
gets enthusiastic. Mr. C. here to supper & we went down
to hear Roaches book “La Boheme”. Don’t care a great deal
for it. Had lovely swim. Went across the pond with help of
tube.
Sat. May 28
Keith not feeling very well today. Has been getting
pretty tired. We went for picnic dinner in the canyon. Mr
& Mrs. S. didn’t come. Jno & Mr S. went to Ngiro to
see Surridge ab’t the car. Every one too tired for swim
except the children. Took group picture.
Sun. May 29
Had communion service today. 6 women took it. Wish
they’d be as eager to come to prayer mtg as they are to take
communion. Cafeteria supper here. Parmale thinks he can’t go
to Kjb for lack of shgs.
Mon. May 30
Parmale did big wash. They all got away ab’t 9 A.M.
Elija started school. Seems rather empty. We did enjoy them.
Mr C. here at lunch time & asked us down to supper.
& music. Mrs S & Grace sleep here.
Tues. May 31
Parmale ironed. Ab’t 11 we went to Roaches for
lunch. Got mail. Mr. C. to supper. Mrs R. was coming for
swim & return with Denning but while at the duka Maj.
Dawson came from safari. so she went back - as he stays with
them.
Quite a hectic month but pleasant all the time.
Enjoyed all the guests. Hoyts want to come for Sept. We took
Rigoletti to Roaches & Mr. C. gave us their “La Boheme”
just for a month or 2. Now I suppose Claudon is graduated
& Raymond will be soon.
Wed. June 1
Morima’s first day. He doesn’t do so badly. Mr. S.
says Dr. wants much to go to Loitokitok. So perhaps he &
Jno & Mr S. will go & Mrs S & I stay at Kijabe.
Sewing class this P.M. 5 out.
Thur. June 2
Morima went for mail & brot a nice lot. Letter
from the boys. Went to prayermtg. Planning for Guaso Ngiro
tomorrow. Lots of magazines of all sorts. Mr C. to supper.
Goes to Nairobi tomorrow.
Fri. June 3 J.W.S. 1878
Didn’t get away til 11. Mr. Surridge ate lunch with
us but couldn’t come back with us. Said he may come Sun.
Brot Bombay flour that S. was to bring & they told him
it had gone. Played “La Boheme” this eve.
Sat. June 4
Baked some & cleaned a bit. Rather expected
B.C.M.S. people here but they haven’t come. Worked at Song
book this P.M. Played “La Boheme” again. Mrs S. likes it
much but he doesn’t. I like it better than I did but not
like Rigoletto.
Sun. June 5
There’s a parcel at Narok for me. Have no idea what
it is. Meetings as usual. Mrs. S. spoke so well to the young
people this P.M. on riches. Over there to supper and for
mtg.
Mon. June 6
Washed a bit. Will leave things to accumulate til
end of next week. Quite a nice mail last eve. Sitoya &
Parmale came for Eng. & Arith. Elija insists on teaching
Eng. Bible verses.
Tues. June 7
Morima went for meat. & pd the customs on the
parcel but did not bring it. Mrs. S. asked us to eat there -
at noon & we did. Writing the girls. Had La Boheme
again. It is improving.
Wed.* June 8
Feel rather punk for I was too cold to sleep well
last night. Had sewing class. Susana didn’t come. Every one
has to watch gardens these days. Monkeys are bad. Prayermtg
at S’s tonight. Elija & school played instead of going
to the gardens. I’m so cross with him.
Thur. June 9
Boys leave on their trip today. I staid right in
school all the time today. taught the advanced class most.
Gave the boys their work too. Elija just wont keep to the
books. but teaches everything but what he should. No
definite reply from Dr. Davis ab’t going to Loitokitok.
Fri. June 10
Am glad another week of school is finished tho it
goes better now since I just take over part of the work
myself. I wish I didn’t need to go to Kijabe & could
just stay at it here. I believe we’d make progress. Baked
bread today.
Sat. June 11
Did a lot of extras. Morima cleaned. I worked at
Songs. fixed up 3 books. Have several ore to make. “La
Boheme” again tonight. We are getting quite familiar with it
now.
Sun. June 12
Meetings as usual. Mrs S. does so well with the
P.M. meetings always gives some illustrated talk. Today was
“The Word of God”- as light, fire, meat, milk, knife, etc.
They ate here. and after a walk had mtg.
Mon. June 13
Jno did extra today so will finish tomorrow. They
want to leave on Fri! Mr. S & I drove to Narok for mail.
I drove most of the way. Didn’t wash for I thot I’d do it
Sat. ready for leaving on Mon.
Tues. June 14
Jno finished the vocabulary. I just mentioned to
Susana that we didn’t want the trees cut on the further bank
of the pond & Ollenaisho came right up mad as anything
& called the elders & wanted a shauri. but Jno
wouldn’t. They are just getting nastier & nastier. We
are getting ready to leave Fri. “La Boheme” tonight.
Wed. June 15 Faylon. 1925
Baked & got a few things lined up for safari.
Parmale washed & I ironed. Morima went to Narok with
letters. Getting nice big eggs now from the big hens. Jack
says he wanted to go to Kijabe to school. but we hope he
wont.
Thur. June 16
So eager for the mail for there is a big one in.
but nothing but Nairobi mail came. They stopt ours at
Kijabe. Are ab’t all packed up. S’s will eat here in the
morning. La Boheme again tonight. Started a letter to the
boys. finish it in the Gorge. Rained a bit this eve.
Fri. June 17
We thot we’d go to Nairaq Ngare for the night but
here we are in the entrance of the Gorge. Couldn’t go very
far in because we are short of gas. We have an awful load on
of “kits, cats, sacks & wives”. Could get no water at
Ndulele nor have we found any here but past an awful mud
hole. Hope to find some tomorrow.
Sat. June 18
Jno & Mr S. & Mashipei went way up the
Gorge. We found water trickling down the rocks. We sewed
& looked at Cat. for we want to make up a joint order.
Men had a wonderful time & want us to go too tomorrow.
Could drive in further but gas is very low. Many buffalo
tracks.
Sun. June 19
Jno & I went up as far as the huge steam jet.
Cooked an ear of corn over it. Took pictures. Got back by
lunch. Decided we’d spend a week here when the boys come.
Men walked out to find best way out & on way back chased
up a lone buffalo. Very excited. Rained this eve.
Mon. June 20
Got away in good time & gas lasted til almost
to the corn cribs below Kjb hill. Mashipei got a gal. We ate
lunch here. Not getting Thurs. mail we missed Drs letters.
We are sleeping in Miss Stevensons old house. Had supper at
Holmans. Baths at Drs. The men will both (McK & Dr.) go
along to Loitokitok.
Tues. June 21
More talking & planning. I’m to stay with Mrs.
McK - came to supper. Jno with Devitt & the B.C.M.S.
men. & then here all night. Mrs S. at R.V.A. Expect a
big mail tomorrow. Have all packed up. ‘Twas some sorting
& scheming to take all necessary & not any extra.
Wed. June 22 Elmer’s birthday
Men got off by ab’t 9 A.M. Sitoya goes to Ngong.
and Milaun goes all the way. S. has been so
disappointing. Nol. sits. She seems to fear. No
wonder she was never away before. I led P.M. prayer mtg at
Holmans. also had tea there. No mail. ripped dress &
jacket.
Thur. June 23
Mail today & letter from boys. also Lora. I
added my note to Barnetts that Jno wrote telling them about
the little money Chas has & asking ab’t boys using it to
come out here. Mtg here & Stevenson cut out coat.
Fri. June 24
Went with Mrs. McK. to sew at R.V.A. Worked at shoe
bags after mending. Also planned for fixing car cushions
into chairs. Ironed Mrs S’s clothes as Nolmisheni didn’t
come. Mrs. McK. heard from Mr. but no new plans.
Sat. June 25
Were planning a party on F’s tonight but he is not
well so called it off. Worked some at coat. Moody asked us
to supper. Mrs. S. there too. Very pleasant time. Flora at
R.V.A. Martha here to dinner.
Sun. June 26 Flora McKs. 1920
It is also Farnsworths silver wedding anniversary.
And as he felt better every one came after supper for a
little surprise – gave them a gift of sh. 130.50 & then
we had a sing. They shewed the wedding picture &
clipping from paper at that time.
Mon. June 27
Mrs. McK’s wash boy is sick so didn’t wash. Sitoya
is back. Says now Olduboi wants 10 cattle. He is
working here at wood for his food. Got letter off to boys,
& for the set of vegetable shredders. To Miss Stevensons
for tea & pr mtg.
Tues.* June 28
Sewed at coat. Hoped to finish but not quite. Found
some songs to copy. Mr Alfred Buxton came last eve &
left this P.M. but called for chat. ‘Twas so nice to see him
again after almost 20 yrs. Scudder called too. He is going
out with us. for language.
Wed. June 29 Grandma Myers 1854
Finished my coat & ironed my clothes. Grace S.
had a hard fall from the see-saw but seems no serious
injury. Helpt Mrs. Saum & Miss Mathys prepare supper for
all on station - in honor of Grandma M’s birthday. Had a
very nice time.
Thur. June 30
8 yrs ago tonight Mother went to glory. Mrs. McK.
is expecting Downeys tomorrow so I’m going up to Moodys
& Holmans. Worked at shoe bags for R.V.A. Capens,
Shaffer & Stevenson here to tea & prmtg. Letter from
Agnes. Copied a song. Went to singing class with Miss
Mathys.
Rather a hectic month. Haven’t heard yet from
Johnsons if they are coming to us for Aug. or Sept. Since
Mr. Scudder goes out with us we’ll not have much time by
ourselves for a bit. We are glad he is coming.
Fri. July 1
As Mrs McK & I went up the hill for sewing at
R.V.A., the truck & men drove up. So glad they got back
so early & we go out tomorrow - with Mr. Von Staden
& Dr. who go on to Ololeondo – while Mr. Scudder & I
stay at Syabei. Devitt & Scudder go in Dept. truck.
Shaffers go to Loitokitok - have permission to work there
for 5 years.
Sat. July 2
Home and it’s nice to be here tho we didn’t
arrive til most 7:30. had a puncture just after getting out
of the valley. Then couldn’t find the road thro the brush.
Devitt & Scudder got here ab’t 5:30 & settled in S’s
guest house. Von S. didn’t stop to eat but worked at car til
late.
Sun. July 3
Mr. Von Staden spoke to the children so helpfully.
then spoke at P.M. mtg and also at our mtg tonight. He is
fine - so spiritual & yet very jolly & witty. Jack
& Morima are helping today but Parmale will come
tomorrow. Good crowd out this P.M.
Mon. July 4
The 3 bound for Ololeondo got away ab’t 8:30 &
Mr Devitt left 11:20. Hope all are at their destinations ere
this. Mr. S. stays in S’s guest house. Parmale began work.
washed. Susana is to come but hasn’t yet.
Tues. July 5
Susana did not come. I left the lantern burning
turned very low. was wakeful but not restless. P. ironed. I
went to school some. Rained pretty hard last night. Jack got
meat & mail & posho. Mr. S. weeded some &
studied much. & shot a pigeon. Will they be back
tomorrow?
Wed. July 6
Men came in ab’t 10 P.M. I washed my hair or I’d
have been in bed. Mr S. & his boy weeded quite a lot in
the garden & Parmale cleaned up the work shop. We two
had prayer mtg. The men are pleased with their trip. Some
Dutch settlers are giving 5 a. for a mission sta.
Thur. July 7
Dr. & Mr. Von Staden had lunch here then left
ab’t 1 for Kjb. Kamoni came at noon & said Putuputu’s
mother was sick. Had been in labor since yesterday. Finally
after prayermtg he came & wanted her taken to Narok. Mr.
S. drove but just as they got her there she died. I hope she
was a child of God. Some home letters.
Fri. July 8
Mr. S. moved up stairs yesterday. Very heavy rain
this eve. after a hot sultry day. Jno worked at garden.
& Mr. S. at car part of time. I did lots of little
things this P.M. In school this A.M. Got vegs. ready for
pickle tomorrow. Wrote boys.
Sat. July 9
Baked. Parmale cleaned. This PM went fishing below
the falls caught only shenzi ones but had ‘em for supper.
Men working at spring. S’s want the ram, so Jno is trying
every thing else to get water up here. I’m not very hopeful.
Jno began at Masai-Eng. vocabulary.
Sun. July 10
Meetings as usual. Had a good sing this P.M. &
Jno gave a short message. Read from Keswick addresses this
eve. Boma folks came for lunch & a swim. Took a walk way
up past Tamenos.
Mon. July 11 Dr. Davis.
Parmale washed long. Hassan helpt me in kitchen.
Headache this P.M. Took asperin. Mr. Scudder started his
night class in Eng. 6 were out for it with his 2. Writing
letters this eve.
Tues. July 12
Sent S’s boys for meat & mail. Nothing much.
Parmale ironed. Mr. S. had class again. They are working to
see if the spring can’t be brot around or over the hill.
Were late to dinner. I’m very doubtful. Typed at Songs.
Wed. July 13
Garden work today - or rather cleaned up &
hauled & pounded stone in front of school. Prayer mtg
tonight. Sewing this P.M. Airplane passed. Does almost every
wk.
Thur. July 14
Lovely big mail tonight. Women brot it. Graduation
& pictures in boys’ letter. Mrs W. told that Eric B is
engaged. Sent their summers itinerary. Letters from Lo &
enclosures & Becca & Guithers. Friends Conf. opens
today.
Fri. July 15
Prayer Day. and as no one came yesterday we told
‘em to come today. 11 were out. Locusts were very bad - til
prayermtg time then they all left. but gardens are stript.
Sending boys a letter to Aunt Lorene. Baked bread & pie
- & cleaned - because of trip tomorrow.
Sat. July 16
Got away ab’t 8:30. Stopt at Roaches &
exchanged operas. also at office. also at Surridges just a
bit. Had a nice time but too short. Visited 2 kraals &
spoke to others who came to the fire. Got home ab’t 5:15.
Supper & baths & bed. Enjoyed the day much. Shot a
momba along Ngiro River.
Sun. July 17
Not many out - and this PM the young men played
ball til mtg time then went home. Only 9 children out. Jno
came home but Sitoya wanted to sing. We read from Keswick
report. Feel depressed & disappointed - but the message
was helpful. It is God’s work.
Mon. July 18 J.R.S. 1908
Parmale washed. Sent Gumati to see ab’t parcels
& Haji Aboo says he has one. So may have to drive over
to get it. Worked at songs. Took ball away from children as
S’s didn’t give it to them but some one found it outside.
Tues. July 19
Mr S. & I drove to Narok for the box. All was
fine in it. butter - slates & water machine. All
children went to Narok to see sports. Gov. got there ab’t
11:30. We didn’t wait. Note from Mr Roach to say Gov. will
call here tomorrow A.M.
Wed. July 20!
They came ab’t 9:30. School stood in line while
they were there. They only stept onto the veranda for a
minute & went right to school & lookt up the valley
from there. After half hr. they came back & left.
Thur. July 21
My, I’m glad yesterday is in the past - but I’m
glad we had it. Mail brot a bit from home. Wrote Lo birthday
letter. It’s late now, I fear. Jno worked a bit on the road.
Roaches can’t come til a week from Sat.
Fri. July 22
Every thing as usual. School etc. Want to go on the
road tomorrow so will leave P. to bake bread. Wrote Bec.
birthday letter. Cut Mr. S’s hair. Finished sewing J’s
pyjamas. Parmale got spunky.
Sat. July 23
Too rainy this morning so I didn’t go out, but the
men did & Mr. S’s 2 boys. Bread got pretty nice. Men
came back ab’t 3. Rainy most all day. Washed hair. P. is
better natured today.
Sun. July 24
Mtgs as usual. As I went to S.S. I saw Elisa
starting for Narok with a big load of garden stuff to sell!
and next Sun. she will come & want communion. Almost no
one came to P.M. mtg either. guess we’ll change it.
Mon. July 25
Not much mail- Gumati went. P. washed. Just as we
got well started in school Elija asked to go for a bit - but
he didn’t come back til school was finished. I typed songs
P.M. & this eve.
Tues. July 26
Ironed. I baked muffins. Wrote at songs this P.M.
& eve - pasted some. While at em just before sup. Mrs
Roach came up. Mr. Ashton looked at a dead calf. Expect
hyenas ab’t tonight.
Wed. July 27 Sara - 1910
Last night ab’t 10:30 Dr D & Farnsworths came
in. Called to Narok to see Mrs. Lobo. F’s slept in S’s
house. They left again after lunch. so it seems only a dream
that they were here. 6 out to sewing class. The regular
weekly air mail passes during class. They look for it now.
Mr. S. shot a rabbit tonight.
Thur. July 28
Such nice letters from boys. Mrs Shaffer and Mrs
Guilding. She is going home soon sailing with Miss Moody.
Grace has broken her engagement. Raymond is interested in a
Miss Sloop - who is taking a nurses training. Six out to
prayermtg. Very cloudy all day. Headache.
Fri. July 29
Just can’t get R’s letter out of my mind & then
I feel so sorry for Grace W. Her mother is so sure it is all
in ans. to prayer. Headachey most of the day but better this
eve. Wrote Mrs. G. Cut out & sewed pieces for 1 block of
pattern Al sent. basket. Men cut better path into the valley
below falls.
Sat. July 30
Worked fast & got all done but bread was baking
at 12 when we left for picnic lunch. Mr. S. had gone for
Roaches. They came before 1 - and we had a pleasant time.
Roasted corn & made tea had beans etc. Came home &
had visit then went to pond & asked Ashtons, Denning
& another to tea. Phono spring broke. Mr D took it to
fix.
Sun. July 31
Had communion. Not many out. Sitoya & wife took
communion. Elisa was there but didn’t take it. Susana has
bad knee. 4 stood wanting to come to class but Gashisha says
better not start til Oct. some are moving. No P.M. mtg.
Started reading Mr Scudders book by Thomas Payne. Very good.
We have enjoyed having Mr. S. here very much. He’s
so full of pep. and so helpful about every thing. Work has
jogged on. Jno wants to try again to bring water from the
spring up in the gardens for S’s want the ram.
Mon. Aug. 1
Only 4 more weeks of school & less than that
til folks come. This is a bank holiday so office isn’t open.
Will get mail tomorrow. Mr. S. had no class tonight. Big
white kitty has been away for several days. Mr D returned
phono. Seems alright.
Tues. Aug. 2 Grace S’s 4th birthday
Parmale is either sick in his heart or in his body.
but he finished the ironing. Hassan went for mail &
meat. Mr S. has swimming lesson for his class tomorrow at
10. I’ll keep the girls busy.
Wed. Aug. 3
Was home from school working at dinner when Mr
Metters arrived bringing Mr. & Mrs. McK. and Mrs. Saum
along. Had such a nice visit this PM & eve. Mrs S. not
feeling so well. Metters wanted to see Scudder. I feared he
wanted to take him away. Parmale sick so it was Hassan &
me for it.
Thur. Aug. 4
They said they must leave after tea at 9:30 - They
did. Got away 10:20. Miss Stevenson is having her house
warming tonight & they had to get back in good time. Did
enjoy their visit much - tho so short.
Fri. Aug. 5
Boys leave Montrose. Likely have our letters by
now. I guess our pretty Capt. Kitty is gone for good. No one
has seen him for some days. A wild one comes every night
& fights with the blue one. Brot the kittens in here
last night. Parmale is not awful peppy yet. Made donuts this
eve for we want to go to falls tomorrow.
Sat. Aug. 6
Packed up & went fishing right after breakfast.
to lower falls & cut road as we went. Had lunch. Then
men went into valley for fishing. Second one Jno pulled out
was a trout! 1 ¼ lbs. 17 in. long. what excitement!
took picture when we got home. Enjoyed the day much.
Sun. Aug. 7
Meetings as usual. Nothing in P.M. They just wont
come. Both the men are pretty tired today. Finding the book
“The Christianity That always Triumphs” by Thomas Payne,
very helpful. Only one chap. tonight.
Mon. Aug. 8
Parmale washed - lots of shirts. Susana asked Mr.
S. if he wanted to shoot a baboon. so he went & got one.
Jno working at upper spring still. Wepplers want to come in
Sept.! Writing letters to send tomorrow. Mrs Roach sent
records.
Tues. Aug. 9
Parmale did only part of the training. He has
troubles - a calf died. Mr. S. cuts out school on Mon.
nights. He’s not feeling very well these days. Pasted songs
into books. Not finished yet. but want to mount pictures
from the boys.
Wed. Aug. 10
Jno put in trough but water hasn’t come up to it.
is getting away some place. Had sewing class. air plane that
passes every Wed. past early today. Finished Stacys letter.
Thur. Aug. 11
Hassan brot mail. Mr S. got home mail but we
didn’t. but 2 from Shaffers. Nixons will camp. That’s good.
Hoyts may not be able to stay all month. Mr S saw a momba at
the ram but didn’t get it. Got a rabbit.
Fri. Aug. 12
Mr. S. has 3 boils coming on one wrist. are putting
on hot Epsom Salts fomentations. Parmale goes to Narok
tomorrow to take letters. Mr. S. got the momba today. also
shot the wild cat that’s been around here.
Sat. Aug. 13
Baked all A.M. Made rabbit pie. Jno opening a path
up the river so had dinner in the woods. Then they went
fishing later but caught only a few shenzi ones. Parmale
brot parcel for Mr. S. 2 scenes of Keswick. very pretty.
Pasted boys pictures in album.
Sun. Aug. 14
S.S. & A.M. meetings both fairly well attended.
Sat out in the woods. then on way home talked with 2 old
women. Very quiet & helpful day. Our own service this
eve was very helpful too. God seemed very near.
Mon. Aug. 15 Mr. Scudder ‘06
Letter from Moody - tonight they are on the boat.
Cake got pretty nice - put tablet, envelopes & stamps on
Mr S’s table. He hasn’t seen ‘em yet. Shauri tonight was
quite a failure. Ended by saying they didn’t want any more
of our words. They didn’t believe the Bible was God’s word.
We know not all are saying that.
Tues. Aug. 16
Hard day. Many temptations to annoyance. Parmale is
trying. Gashisha & Kamoni came & talked long with
Jno on the veranda but he says they only hashed over again
what was said last night but he found it is as we supposed.
This has come up because of girls who are of age for cir-
Wed. Aug. 17
Am having to fight depression today. Didn’t rest
very well. neither did Jno. We had such a nice time at
sewing class today. reminds me so much of 2 yrs ago. but I
know God can over rule all to his glory so I’m trusting
& resting in Him. My efforts to avert any thing are
futile.
Thur.* Aug. 18
Such a nice mail was here when we came from prayer
mtg. Hassan caught a ride with Denning. Nice no. to prayer
mtg. mostly women. Mr. S’s girl has changed date of sailing
& doesn’t leave til Oct. 21. Rather disappointing.
Fri. Aug. 19
Tried to get the boys to cut lots of wood but
Parmale is so slow ab’t things these days & gets so
cross when I reprove him. Hen should come off today but no
sign of any chicks yet. Mr. S. caught a good lot of nice
talapia. Quite exciting for we thot all big ones had died.
Sat. Aug. 20
Mr. S. caught 27 fish. Very nice. Had lunch down by
the river. Found a nice cave. Did some fishing but nothing
exciting. Washed hair. Baked cookies etc. Also large sweet
potato for lunch. My letters to Mrs S. came back so sent
Jack to post them to Miss Slaters.
Sun. Aug. 21
Bigger crowd than usual at mtg. Afterwards a few
came for shauri. Kinyanjui leader. but not Gashisha nor
Kamoni. They threaten they’ll get us out of here if we
protest any girls. Everything was late so didn’t get much
time in the woods but some.
Mon. Aug. 22
Gashisha brot. mail. Saw a whole crowd coming back
from Narok. G. said now he & Kamoni stand with us &
against the others! tho they don’t think we do right in all
things. Making bread tomorrow. Sprinkling tonight. Hen
coming off.
Tues. Aug. 23
Quite a shower this P.M. Mr S got 2 rabbits but no
fish. Hassan brot lots of meat. Chicks are coming out. but
should have been out Fri. One died another not very chipper
all by the fire tonite.
Wed. Aug. 24
Big sewing class today. Pupils in school getting
ready for Sun. when they are to recite scripture & sing.
Weekly ‘plane passed again. Only 1 more eve before the crowd
comes.
Thur. Aug. 25
As we were eating supper Mr. Shaffer & the 3
boys came. Others want to get here for lunch tomorrow.
Gumati went to Narok brot home mail for us. Nice letter from
the boys. Jno & Mr. S. went up river to hi rocks nice
picnic place. Good number out to prayer mtg. Rather excited
tonight - folks & mail.
Fri. Aug. 26 [page damaged]
Was so busy all A.M. di… get to school at all.
Folks got h… 2 P.M. Nixons in tent McK’s in… house Hoyts up
stairs. All had … here, & all fairly well settled now…
Baked bread for Mrs S. Was temp… get very nerv… was…
Sat. Aug. 27 [page damaged]
Just did a bit to get ready… tomorrow. Talked a
lot. Ss… to have Wanjeri in kitchen. …male works for Nixons.
Every body… Every body in for a swim - big, ...ttle &
medium.
Sun. Aug. 28
Good crowd out to church. Children did very well
with their scripture chapters. Mulungit is here. He said
“for shauri”. There’s lots of talk these days. May God help
us to be wise. Very nice service at 4.
Mon. Aug. 29
Every body washing. Wanjeri got only half done.
Can’t settle down to any thing. Our 3 men went fishing down
river at lower falls. Wrote boys, & talked. They tried
for trout. but no luck. Mr. Hoyt threatened with bad head.
Tues. Aug. 30
Finished washing today. Men lying around. Jno set
out cabbages & tomatoes. Mended. Had supper very late.
Didn’t go swimming tonight. Talked awhile around the table.
To bed early.
Wed. Aug. 31
Slept very poorly - and was up by 4:15 - but Mr.
Shaffer was already here & had fire made. They got off a
little after 6 and came back tonight. with ducks, geese,
bustards & guinea fowl. & brot some boards for Jno
to use on trough for water works - if we don’t keep ram.
Aug. has gone out with a bang. Otherwise the mo.
hasn’t been so bad. Several annoying shauris and no doubt
still more to follow. We are enjoying our guests.
Thur. Sept. 1 Warren
Shaffer, Scudder, Hoyt & McK. went to Narok for
mail. Jno & Milaun working at ram. grinding it down. I
did prayermtg this P.M. We all met at S’s this eve. Anderson
is to come tomorrow so men are going out for the day only.
Mr H. got a 2 wks license.
Fri. Sept. 2 Lora.
They didn’t get back til 7:15. but had several
animals - altho Mr. H. had headache. Mr Scudder was with
them & had a very exciting time. We had a lovely supper
for them but they scarcely ate at all. so tired &
excited over it all. They’ve decided to take Scudder with
‘em tomorrow- & not a cook.
Sat. Sept. 3
They finally got away - after pictures etc. Very
well loaded but not too much. We had Nixons come to dinner
& supper as Parmale went to Narok. & now wants to go
to work there so Gumati will help Mrs N. tomorrow &
we’ll see about Putuputu.
Sun. Sept. 4
Mr. S. led A.M. native service & Nixon P.M.
white service all had supper here. and then a walk to falls.
river is very high. Wonder what sort of a day the men had in
camp. restful, I hope.
Mon. Sept. 5 Mrs. Hoyt. ‘80
Rather strenuous day. Made cake etc - hi tea at S’s
- decorations & program. Letter from boys. They don’t
think they should come now. Drove truck up to get wood just
at dark. Hope the men are having a nice time. Wanjeri washed
big wash. Very tired.
Tues. Sept. 6
Hassan ironed with charcoal iron - but he’s as slow
as Wanjeri. Ram pounded hard & stopt in the night. Mr.
McK. thinks the end of the pipe should be screened. Lovely
time around the bon fire singing & repeating scripture.
Wed. Sept. 7
Mrs. Hoyt led prayermtg this eve. Sort of for
children but good for all. Very helpful. We ate supper at
pond. Ashton was fishing & came & had a cup of tea
with us. Mr. McK. & I worked at ram. He took it to
pieces - several things missing others worn. so no wonder it
doesn’t go well.
Thur. Sept. 8
What excitement! just as we finished eating lunch
the men drove in from camp and had a lovely large lion skin.
Every body came over here to hear the story. Mr. H. sat up
the tree all P.M. yesterday & finally got it about 5:30.
Didn’t have any other meat but bustards. Sitoya led prayer
mtg.
Fri. Sept. 9
Working at skin and dried meat. and getting dirty
safari clothes washed up. Had quite a nice mail yesterday.
Letter from Mr. Barnett. It is evident they don’t understand
our proposition. Mr. Hoyt is happy ab’t the lion. They went
out for impala but got nothing.
Sat. Sept. 10
Did some baking. Hassan is not quite so indifferent
since his bwana is back. but I do not like his ways. Tried
to wash his clothes in our tubs again after all I’ve said to
him. Several went for moonlight swim but we had super late.
Had talk with Mr. S. ab’t going to Kaimosi. Splashed hot fat
on wrist so its blistered.
Sun. Sept. 11
A big crowd to meeting today. We had service here
& supper at S’s. Very nice time at both. It’s so nice to
be such a gathering. We’ve ab’t decided to go with Hoyts if
Mr. S. will bring the car after Keswick. He’s keen on it.
John is not, but says alright. I told him I’d gladly stay
home if he’d use the money we’d spend to pay on ram - but he
wont.
Mon. Sept. 12 Becca
Mr. S & Harry & Roy D went to saw mill
& Kjb. Mr. Scudder wants to go to Nairobi tomorrow. He
will take our blankets and Hoyts extras so we wont be so
heavily loaded. Jno is getting quite enthusiastic. S’s want
to take the ram now. I’m trying to be happy ab’t it
all. Do get so tired these days. Not just so busy but just
so many ab’t. Washed for Mrs Nixon.
Tues. Sept. 13
Scudder & the loaded car got away by 9. Took
both boys. I called for Waweru but he is herding. Asked
Susana to help but she didn’t come. Poor Wanjeri washed all
by himself. Started bread. Rained a bit this eve. Men went
for hunt after tea but got only a bustard. McKs want to be
off by 5:30.
Wed. Sept. 14
They did get off by 5. Mrs Hoyt helpt iron. Have
things pretty well packed. S’s will live over here &
pack their things. Prayermtg over there this eve. Mr. H.
says we’d like to be off by 7! Jno says 9! We’ll see.
Thur. Sept. 15 Litein
Shaffer & boys got back at 3:30 A.M. We were
off a bit before 7. Got out to the Loitai plains & got a
tommy & 2 bustards. Stopt many times for mpala but got
none. Ate lunch at Mara bridge - at noon 53 miles from home.
Went barely an hour when we ran into rain & slipt to one
side & got stuck. Worked 1 hr. before we got on. Then
soon ran into dry roads. Chains off. 15 min. more in mud -
chains on! Reached Andersons by 5. Pleasant eve. Nice baby.
Mr A. didn’t want to believe Mr H. shot the lion.
Accused him of buying it.
Fri. Sept. 16 Kericho
Mr. A. took his truck to Kericho to be looked over
& we 4 went in our car. Then after lunch at Mrs Waldrons
we 5 came back stopping on the way to see how tea is
prepared. ‘Twas very interesting. We got into heavy rain
& our wheels clogged beside skidding awfully. but
finally got home by 5. Pleasant eve. Janzens came over.
& they talked late. I read Col. Pattersons “Grip of
Nyika”.
Sat. Sept. 17 Kaimosi
Got away from Litein by 9. Ate lunch just before
crossing Kano plains. Went to air port & saw both water
& land machines. Stopt at Innises for tea & stopt
& greeted Kellers. She is thin but he looks well. Found
Norman Johnsons at Innise. and Wepplers here. Mr. Hoyt is so
pleased to show his lion skin. We have a lovely room and tho
it has rained they hope it will clear for a trip to Elgon
Mt.
Sun. Sept. 18 Lo & Alberts 26th.
Last day of Keswick. Hope it has been a blessed
helpful time. Nice quiet day here. Early prayer mtg for
workers. Native service at 11. I went with Mrs Hoyt. Not
many natives here now. Our service after supper. Mr. Weppler
led. Then all staid to talk awhile.
Mon. Sept. 19 Mothers & fathers 60th
wedding day.
No one has come from Nairobi yet. Looks rainy out
that way. Hope they are not having car trouble. Mr. H.
showed us thro the mill, coffee house & all. Very
interesting. Then had to go to a shauri at out school &
got back to late dinner. Not very ambitious for any thing.
Am rereading Jane Eyre. took long walk this eve to Mrs.
Fords grave & on to an elders’ place.
Tues. Sept. 20
And still no Keswick folks. We can’t understand.
Almost no rain at all here tho banks of black clouds on all
sides. Had lunch at saw mill - altogether only Dr. Ms. M.
& Mrs. Weppler went to Kisumu. John & I took long
walk to the east after tea. Saw some big rocks where we may
all go tomorrow for the day. Washed my hair.
Wed. Sept. 21
We went to the Cabarcan Rocks. Climbed two of ‘em.
Found Mr. Ford here when we returned. Said others had helpt
him out of a hole then went to Eldoret for the night. They
didn’t leave El. til noon & got here by 6 P.M. Erika
& Ruth came too. Had heavy rain on road today. All here
to tea. Clara got part way up Kibo ab’t where I did.
Thur. Sept. 22
Mr. Hoyt had to go to Kakamega gold field so we
went too. Not Mrs. H. but Weppler. Took lunch. Sat in car
quite a bit. Very interesting where they test the gold &
also saw where they were washing it. & mining it. A man
gave Martha & me each a nugget. Got to Maragoli, where
Webbs live now as it began to rain hard. So had tea. Mrs. W.
very pleasant. Got home by 7. lovely dinner of chicken etc.
Fri. Sept. 23
I wanted to go to Innises but plans changed so we
thot we’d get there on way home. Had an awful rain &
wind storm this P.M. Doors & windows blew open &
things got wet but all is quiet tonight. Tea & sup in
one on the veranda. Have ab’t decided to abandon the Mt.
trip now. but we may go on to Kacheliba - all go to Malava
tomorrow to Conf.
Sat. Sept. 24 Kacheliba
We got away right after break. didn’t stop at
Malava but came on to Kitale fast as possible in order to
get some eats before going out. Had lunch at the hotel then
went to Wyats & saw Fripps & Totty and then came on
down to Kacheliba. Had tea on escarpment. lovely
drive on down here.
Sun. Sept. 25
Very hot. Didn’t sleep well. Throat sore & bad
cold. feel like a go of fever but it just just be the heat.
Nice & cool this eve. Had lovely walk to the bridge
& watched baboons on the big rock. Jno & S. had swim
in river. We are sleeping in Mr. Totty’s house. Mr. S. stays
in guest room. We went to A.M. meeting. Mr S. spoke in
Swahili. Want to leave early for Lotome.
Mon. Sept. 26 Lotome (nit!) P.W.D. Camp
Got away in good time. Drove 30 mi. on the border
road then returned & went toward Lotome but when within
15 mi. found it had rained too hard to go on. River sounded
high. Returned & crossed another river so were on the
home side if it should rain more. Mr. Walker at the P.W.D.
Camp asked us to stay. Gave us sup. Mr. S. was very tired
for we’d gone 180 mi.
Tues. Sept. 27 Falls (nit!) Kacheliba
Left the camp by 6:30 headed for a gorge and falls
out among the hills beyond Karrpao. but found rough going
& decided to return & ask Mr. T. who has been there.
He came ab’t 2 P.M. & said it’s fine etc but too far for
2 day safari. So are giving it up. Brot in lots of spur fowl
& guinea fowl. shot yesterday. Hope Housdens can come to
us soon.
Wed. Sept. 28 Mrs. Downing.
Kitale. Left Kacheliba ab’t 9:30 got to Kapenguria
just before it began raining. Staid at Channdys for lunch.
He has a good school & nice house & lots of gardens.
Enjoyed our visit much. Got to Kitale ab’t 4. Went right to
Ulyates after buying some records for Mr. Hoyts birthday.
Dinner at 8:30! Have awful indigestion. Cold doesn’t get
much better either. Rain all evening.
Thur. Sept. 29 Miss Glover
Kaimosi. Left Kitale by 6:30. I had an awful night.
Think it was lime juice at Channdy’s that set me off. Felt
punk all day. Ate breakfast beside the road. Went to see
Broderis Falls. took pictures. It’s beautiful. got here just
as rain was beginning. Had quite a bit of trouble with mud.
put chains on tires. Awful good to get back. Pleasant eve
together.
Fri. Sept. 30
Gumati washed & I ironed. Cloudy all day.
Raining a bit this eve. Played records we bot in Kitale.
then Jno & I went to Dr. Mitcheners. They played the
“Mikado”. Pretty & interesting. Others were there too.
Had good sleep today. Stomach is getting into better shape.
but have awful hives. due no doubt to poisoning for I
couldn’t get rid of food that wouldn’t digest.
So many things have happened this mo. that in some
ways it has been very long. Yet the time has past very fast
and so very pleasantly. We will soon be home again and only
the memory of a lovely vacation left. Tho the new
acquaintances made will last thro eternity. and we thank God
for every experience of the mo. & pray we may be more
faithful to Him.
Sat. Oct. 1 Mr. Hoyt
Mr. H. & Mr. S. went to Kisumu - brot ice for
ice cream. I did some mending and tried to get things
together for leaving after tea but when they got back they
said it had rained very hard at Kisumu. that we
couldn’t leave til morning. So we are staying tho we dislike
to travel ab’t on Sun. Had a lovely evening together.
Sun. Oct. 2 Chas.
Kellers. As we came along we could see it had
rained tho the roads were fine this morn. We stopt at
Kellers to say we’d be over tomorrow & she said we were
to stop now. That Mrs Innis would be ready for us tomorrow.
So here we are. They have a lovely home & beautiful
grounds. Single ladies here to sup. & evening. Baileys
drove in ab’t bed time.
Mon. Oct. 3
Took all our things to Innises & then we went
on to Maseno & Bunyore - and back in time for lunch. Had
good rest & then tea and a lovely drive before dark. Sat
& chatted before supper & also afterward. til 10
P.M. Jno & Scudder taking quinine.
Tues. Oct. 4 Nyakach
Mr. S. had a miserable night and has been quite
feverish today. Mr. Ford & Clara came while we were at
breakfast. Esther comes in this eve. Sorry we missed seeing
her. Got here ab’t 2 P.M. and after tea Mr.S. went to bed.
It rianed & blew just after we got here. The view here
beats Ogada, I think. Wonderful sunset.
Wed. Oct. 5
Mr. S. staid in bed til supper time. Gumati is sick
too. We thot Mr Ss trouble was fever but now acts more like
heavy cold. Guess it is the epidemic that is around. He
staid up while we read some negro stories, & enjoyed
them too. Mr Skoda reads well. Paul has fever & baby is
fretful.
Thur. Oct. 6 Litein
Got on to Litein today only ab’t 43 mi. Found
Andersens OK but Margaret has had another spell of pneumonia
so Mrs. A. wants to take her away & may come here with
the 3 girls. Mr. S. better but has such a heavy cold now.
Earls letter says Ray. may be asked to go to Ukamba!
Fri. Oct. 7 Home.
Got in 3:30. Ran into heavy rain just as we left
Narok. Awful wind too but it stopt by the time we got here.
Letters here from Ray & his Sara Sloop. They have
decided the Lord wants them to work together for Him. God
bless ‘em! 2 wks. from today Mr S’s girl sails.
Sat. Oct. 8
Baked bread & cakes. Mr. S. is not feeling up
to much at all. and Gumati is all in too. Several here have
what acts like pneumonia. Mrs Kashisha is very ill. Had
miscarriage yesterdy. Her heart is weak. Shaffers left Mon.
took the ram! No rain today.
Sun. Oct. 9
Kashisha was at the door when I got out & at
once asked for boards for box. his wife had died. We had
little service at the grave then regular Sun. service. No
S.S. Mrs Tameno & Mrs Muloungit quite sick. Asked
Dispenser to come. He says its poisoning. He brot telegram
& mail. Buxton wants Scudder at Kjb so he left ab’t 6
this eve. Morima went with him.
Mon. Oct. 10
Mr. S was back by 5:15 this eve. Saw Buxton who
doesn’t know just what can be done ab’t him but perhaps
he’ll stay til Feb. Another lady may come with his Miss
Glover. Wanjeri washed. Jack helpt ab’t other things. Morima
will work this month. Talked a lot ab’t the water. As soon
as he feels able he will work at dam & see how hi he can
get it.
Tues. Oct. 11
Gumati was a bit better this morning but the sick
women wanted to go to Narok so Jno & Mr S. went &
paid add. Sh. 30 Poll tax. Got back late for lunch. Sitoya
is teaching school but I go over for awhile each morning.
Such a dif. in the school from last term. Wanjeri ironed all
day. Mr. Oulton came in for supper.
Wed. Oct. 12
Wanjeri finished ironing. Mr. O. sent up guineas
& Tommy chops. But had “shepherds pie” for supper.
Didn’t have sewing class as theres just so much writing to
do. finished typing gen’l letter. Men had class this P.M.
Thur. Oct. 13
Andersens came in this eve. They expected to get
here last eve but broke down on the way & had to send
back. Lovely mail. Boys wrote. Mr. Oulton was to come for
supper but when he found Andersens were here he wouldn’t.
Wanted to poison monkeys but people wouldn’t bring enuf
corn.
Fri. Oct. 14
Prayer Day. Nyakeiru has returned & sent up for
coffee. to help in taking medicine. Baked bread. Wanjeri
ironed at what he washed yesterday. Rained a bit again so
both tubs are full. N. Council was to meet yesterday &
would then tell us if we can use water from spring. but they
didn’t meet. Waited for Mrs. Andersen to come for prayer but
she didn’t come. & we talked too much.
Sat.* Oct. 15
Baked & cleaned. Mr Andersen left after
breakfast. Jack went too & brot meat. Baby Andersen
sleeps a lot & is very good. Wanted to walk up to
Nyakeirus but it rained. Jno out all day with Mr. Oulton.
Then Mr. O came for supper. Wrote Miss Newman for mats for
Edwards & me.
Sun. Oct. 16
Roaches had sent word they were coming to collect
tax - but tho they came while we were in meeting they didn’t
stay. Just asked Lucile where we were. After lunch Mr S.
wanted to go see Gumati and asked if I wanted to go too
& drive & I did. Ngota Susana is still very
ill. We had a nice mtg. Dispenser said we could every
Sun. Mr Oulton came for sup but we had finished so got some
for him.
Mon. Oct. 17
Got lot of letters ready to post in the morning.
Jno wanted to work at Exodus & Mr Scudder couldn’t find
it. We looked long & finally Jno found it & started
typing it. Mr Oulton didn’t come for sup. said he was tired.
Mixing bread tonight.
Tues. Oct. 18
Early this morn. Mr O. sent word he wanted to see
Jno. He is sick with appendicitis & wants to get to
Nairobi. Shauris on at Narok. Sitoya & all went. So
Scudder & Jno both went to N. with Mr. O. & will try
to find Housdens & bring them out. Started letter to
girls. Mrs. Andersen hears yelling & is nervous so I
will take blankets & sleep there. Shauri still on. Etta
is teaching.
Wed. Oct. 19
Thot they might be in tonight but its 10 now &
not here yet. Mrs. A. will try it alone tonight & I’ll
stay here. Finished going over all letters. only have the
private part to answer. Mrs. A. is getting things together
so she can eat there if the folks come in tomorrow.
Thur. Oct. 20
I had just rung the bell for prayer mtg. Susana had
said she would lead. when they drove in. Had Housdens with
them. Mr. H. had fever so they couldn’t leave Nairobi early
enuf yesterday to get out here. They got Mr. Oulton in
alright & they staid at Clarkes. Brot ab’t all I had
ordered. Mrs A. is cooking over there.
Fri. Oct. 21
Mr. Scudder’s Miss Glover sails today & 4
others. May God bless & comfort her mother. It’s so hard
for the mothers. Guess the shauris are over for all the
elders seem to be returning. Sitoya was in school. Wire from
Mr A. he is coming Mon. Music this eve.
Sat. Oct. 22
Baked. & ate lunch down the valley. The men
caught a lot of fish. Mrs. H & I & the 3 men went in
swimming. The D.C. told Jno he forgot to ask the N.L.C.
about the water here & told us to go on & do what he
wants to. So we are not sure that our people accomplished
much at the shauri. No one has said a word.
Sun. Oct. 23
Meetings as usual. We wondered if they’d come out.
They did, a good crowd. We went to Narok again - had a good
crowd there too. took the organ. Brot Elisa back. She’s not
well yet, but better. Such a lovely mail for us all.
Big letter from the boys. Had our service this eve. Expect
Mr. A. tomorrow. Mrs A & children ate here.
Mon. Oct. 24
Mr. A. came ab’t 4 P.M. Jno & Mr. S. started
work on the dam for the D.C. forgot ab’t getting permission
from N.L.C. so told Jno to go ahead. Mr. Roach wrote that a
letter had come to him from elders of Syabei saying they
wanted a shauri that they had grievances against us. We have
no idea what. Tameno’s baby Lois died suddenly last night.
Tues. Oct. 25
At dinner it was decided Mr S should drive Housdens
to Narok & I went too. Mr. A. looked at the water plan
& thinks it is feasible. This P.M. he is quite ill -
acts like flu. I asked Mr. R. what the grievances are he
said they wouldn’t say - except ab’t cutting trees. Called
on Mrs. Roach.
Wed. Oct. 26
Had sewing class this P.M. Susana took it after I
got them started. Mr. A. felt better over noon but quite ill
again this eve. Every body fishing this P.M. but didn’t get
much. Prayer mtg this eve.
Thur. Oct. 27 Wedding - Mr & Mrs Housden 1927
I baked bread, pie & cake - but the cake was
layer recipe baked in loaf pan so didn’t get very nice.
Morima went for mail. Some local. Housdens got quite a
bunch. Fair number to prayermtg. Called on Mrs Mulungit
after tea. Mrs H. too.
Fri. Oct. 28 Mrs. A. Cook - 77
Mr. A. not at all well. Vomits so much. and has
trouble breathing. We wanted to go to the lower falls
tomorrow but Mr. S. thinks it’s pretty hard on the car -
tires are thin. So decided to go below Mr. C’s house - to
top of falls. Called on Elisa after tea. She is far from
well.
Sat. Oct. 29
Mr. A. had such a bad night he asked Mr. S. to go
for the Dr. at Narok. really only an Indian dispenser. He
came but thinks its this flu. S. took him back again then we
went for picnic. Nice time. crossed river on a tree (stick)
& went below falls. Every one went swimming. Music at
Andersens.
Sun. Oct. 30
Took pictures of A’s children before S.S. All had
rather upsetting letters. Housdens heard they can’t locate
on the escarpment. Mr S. heard from Totty he wants to bring
his car. & we heard from Mrs. McK. that she wont
cater at Conf. So we are all rather disappointed. but we had
a good mtg at hospital. Susana spoke.
Mon. Oct. 31
Paid all milk & boys. Thank God for all this
provision of our needs. I wanted wood brot but men are too
busy. Sat & talked after supper. Jno at A’s. Mr. A.
feels some better but is very weak Feared Sitoya was ill but
he took his work alright.
Have settled to work after a fashion but with
guests here & Mr. Totty may come there is not much
regularity ab’t it. Boys must bring water every evening to
help out tank water. It just gets cloudy but no rain. Very
dry. Some milk producers have stopt.
Tues. Nov. 1
Susana is bringing milk yet while the folks are
here - but wants to stop. Mr. A. just can’t drink anything
else so we hope she will keep on. Housdens are getting lots
of letters written these days. I started cutting my tan
& blue but there’s not enuf material.
Wed. Nov. 2
Mr. A. is so restless. Can’t lie down at all &
sitting up is tiresome. I moved my bed over & I’m
sleeping with Jno a night or 2 til we make other
arrangements. Baked bread & Dads delights.
Thur. Nov. 3
Mr. A. seemed so ill we got the Dispenser again
& now he says its mostly his heart & was glad when
we suggested Dr D coming. Mr. S. sent a telegram so we
expect them in tonight. Likely Mr. F. will bring him. Mr A’s
feet are so swelled and has much trouble breathing.
Mail tonight was very upsetting for Mr S.
Fri. Nov. 4
Mr Farnsworth & Dr. got in by 10:30 last night.
Dr. has examined Mr. A. & finds his heart in bad
condition - due partly to flu. He wants him to go to Dr.
Jex-Blake for exam. so he may go when Mr. S. goes on the 18th.
Sat. Nov. 5
The folks got away by 9:30. Mr S took loads to
Narok for lorry. Didn’t do much baking – just some cleaning.
Seems very empty without the folks here - but I’m glad they
got such a nice way to go to Kjb. At 3:30 we 3 went fishing
below the falls. The men declare there are trout there.
Sun. Nov. 6
Pretty full day for me. S.S. then A.M. mtg and
dinner, then to Narok. waited for mail til 5:30 then after
we crossed the airdrome a lorry came in which no doubt was
the mail but it was so black & threatening we came on.
Got a little rain. Mt’g at A’s but Jno didn’t go.
Mon. Nov. 7
Rained enuf last eve that W. washed up here. Sent
Gumati early to get mail & he came back ab’t 6 P.M.
saying mail lorry only came in at 4. That was another lorry
we saw yesterday. Letter from Miss Slater saying we may come
there - all of us - & Miss Glover too if we want it but
guess she’d rather stay with others. Nice swim this P.M.
Tues.* Nov. 8
Threatened no tea these P.M.s but some how it’s
pretty long to supper. Getting mail ready for morning. Men
went to Andersens for music. I wrote Ray. Finished piecing
& cutting my dress - now must baste it together. It’s
awfully pieced but got long sleeves. Baked bread.
Wed. Nov. 9
Sent Morima early with letters. Baked bread. We all
eat more than we did. Men say water is not rising any more
so are going to start ditching. Mr. A. seems brighter.
hasn’t so much trouble to breathe. Had prayer mtg there this
eve.
Thur. Nov. 10
Just ab’t 5:30 a native came with a telegram from
Dr to say he was coming - so Mr S. hustled into the car
& met him coming by Indian lorry. He will stay a few
days. Brot butter & vegs. He went to bed early. Jno had
shauri - but came to no conclusion as there were only 4 out.
Fri. Nov. 11 Armistice Day
Worked at dress some but talked with Mrs A. a lot.
They finally got mail. Dr. says he is better but still far
from well - wants much he should see Dr. Jex-Blake but when
& how is the question. Men are at the water ditch so it
may be here soon. Rained pretty hard today.
Sat. Nov. 12
Took the pipe reaching from ram here & carried
to where it will connect with the ditch. Dr. wrote to
Jex-Blake & expects a wire in reply on Mon. Did usual
baking & sewed some too. Jno at Andersens playing
Rigoletto. Mr. A. likes good music.
Sun. Nov. 13
Mtgs here as usual. Went to Narok as usual. Got
nice mail. letter from boys. A leopard got a cow. Boys made
trap. Mr S. went with gun. Didn’t get in til late but brot
the leopard. We had mtg at A’s. Dr is staying til Wed.
lorry.
Mon. Nov. 14
Men worked til 10 A.M. then went to Narok River for
fish & a shoot. Brot 2 greater & 2 lesser bustards
and a plover & hare & lots of fish. black ones which
we cook up for fowls. Telegram from Jex Blake saying they
should go to Kericho to hospital. Expect Janzens tomorrow.
Tues. Nov. 15
No Janzens have come yet. Mr A. feels sure they’ve
had car trouble. A’s wanted to get back home tomorrow so
that Mr. A would get under the Drs care there. He had a bad
coughing & vomiting spell last night. Got dress pretty
well together. Talked long with Dr. this P.M. He wants now
to go with us Fri.
Wed. Nov. 16
Mr. S. drove A’s car & they left ab’t 8. Some
things & the 4 girls staid here. They met Janzens on
this side of Narok so Mr S. returned & Mr. J. went on
with them. Mr. S. has moved out to the guest house - so if
Dr comes back he can be up here & J’s are in east room.
Mr Oulton sent up a bustard! & came for supper asking me
to bake bread for him.
Thur. Nov. 17
Mr. S. went to Narok to lunch with Mr Denning. No
Dr. has returned as yet so perhaps Mr. S. & I will go
direct to Nairobi after all. Letter from boys enclosures of
Aunts A - Lorene. Mr. O. here again to supper. About all
ready in every way. Had nice swim. Buxton writes Miss Glover
goes to Reynolds for Swahili.
Fri. Nov. 18
Miss Slaters. Mr. S. & I really got away before
8. I sometimes wonder if we are really here - plans changed
so much. Miss S. went with me & we got a hat - double
felt. It’s prettier than I expected to get. Talked late. She
is very tired, as Pontiers only left yesterday. Mr. S. is
quite excited - naturally. Hope to get some shopping done
before noon tomorrow.
Sat. Nov. 19
Went to banks first then to Jacobs for records. Saw
Metters & Owen. Now they say Miss Glover goes to
Reynolds for the year! They came - all 5. Glover &
Grindley are with us at Slaters. All here to tea this P.M.
Mr. Totty doesn’t look so well. but is happy. Had a very
pleasant time. Sat by fire & talked this eve. I do hope
I can have a talk with Mr Metters.
Sun. Nov. 20
Had a nice sing before breakfast. They went to
Cathedral. I wrote Mr B. The 7 came here at 3 for prayer mtg
& tea and then they went to Cathedral. Miss Slater &
I went to the Kirk. home by 8 & supper then talked
again. Restful day but shall be glad to be moving toward
home tomorrow. Mr S. & his Jessie are happy to be
together again.
Mon. Nov. 21 Kijabe
Went shopping with Lotome folks til noon when they
left. Went home to lunch & found Mr Janzen there - helpt
him load up & did last shopping this P.M. Met Johnsons
(Norman) they had tea at Slaters. We left there by 5 - got
here by 8. I am with Holman. the rest at McK’s. Talked late.
Tues. Nov. 22
Home by 4:30. Mr. Janzen got in an hour before we
did. Every one & every thing seems alright. Mrs Janzen
has taken care of things fine. Jno looks none the worse for
being left in such good hands. The ladies are in S’s house.
I want Janzens to stay a few days but they think they must
go tomorrow. It is nice to be here.
Wed. Nov. 23
Janzens finally got off by 11. Lots of trouble with
the tires. She had the house so clean & nice - flowers
in etc. Also had Shaffers house clean for the ladies. They
are unpacking & storing their boxes in the small room.
We do so wonder if they’ll leave Miss Glover here.
Thurs. Nov. 24 Thanksgiving Day.
An air mail letter tonight from R & Mrs. W.
urging us to come home by Mar! O me, O my, and Miss Glover
had one from Reynolds welcoming her to their home. I feel
all upset inside - for I don’t want to go home at all. R.
says he thinks he better wait for Sara. So to see them we
will have a long wait or else go to them.
Fri. Nov. 25 Barnetts land.
Be still, & know that I am God - was brot to me
in 2 dif. places last eve. Talked a bit this morn. but
couldn’t agree. Went fishing below the hi falls. We 3 wet
down too. Caught very few. but good chance to think &
pray. After rest Jno gave his idea of it all & it was
just what I thot too. Wait til May - & if they can use
us then - then go. So I wrote air mail. & Scudder
telegraphed Buxton.
Sat. Nov. 26
Am quite at peace about going home. We had a nice
talk this morning early - and Jno feels we ought to go. So
we will plan on it. Just when will depend on if they
can get some temporary occupant. Baked fruit cake. Swimming
& fishing. Mr. Clarke has come & called Jno down.
Spose Barnetts are at Slaters.
Sun. Nov. 27 Mr. Clarke - ‘83
Meetings as usual. We 4 all went to Narok. I drove.
Mr S. sat behind. Jno not feeling very well. Mr. Clarke here
to supper. Forgot about his birthday so as I had a lemon pie
- I just put more meringue on & stuck candles into it.
Mon. Nov. 28
They started class today - just an hour each.
Wanjeri washed at the stream. I didn’t get to school at all.
Every body writing letters or working. Jno is at vocabulary
for he wants to get it done now. I still have sort of an all
gone feeling when I think of leaving here.
Tues. Nov. 29
Went to school a bit. Mr Oulton has come but didn’t
come for supper tonight but will tomorrow night. No telegram
as yet. We are all so wondering what the reply will be.
Wanjeri didn’t finish ironing. Jno at the water again but
doesn’t feel very well.
Wed.* Nov. 30
Another month done. Baked & worked in the
kitchen all A.M. only was in school for a bit. Gumati went
with letters. Sent Miss Newman Sh 20/ toward payment of
mats, for we ordered more. Mr. Oulton up for supper. The
young folks caught quite a nice lot of fish.
It seems impossible that this year is so near past.
This has been quite a busy month. Did very little at school
- but had plenty to do at home. Many things have happened
this mo. both happy & sad. Spose I’ll feel happier ab’t
going home when I get more used to the thot.
Thur. Dec. 1
Prayer meeting tho it was showery. Very heavy rain
last night. Some home mail. Late in coming. Scudder is
disappointed there’s no word from Buxton. but all we can do
is wait. Heard from both German & French lines. French
is cheapest. Wont decide yet.
Fri. Dec. 2
Baked & stewed so if it is pleasant tomorrow we
can go some place. Rainy all day - showers & no sun.
regular rainy season weather. My head troubles again. Worked
at Johns shirt. renewed collar.
Sat. Dec. 3
Not much to bake because I did most all yesterday.
Wanjeri went to Narok. Mr Oulton came up & brot 2 guinea
fowl. Telegram from Buxton to all stay here til they have
Council mtg. Scudder sent wire to Reynolds that Miss G.
wouldn’t come now. Very clear & cold tonight. Cat killed
our 7 young roosters last night.
Sun. Dec. 4
Mtgs as usual. I drove to Narok with very few
suggestions from Mr. S. Got mail but had to wait til pretty
late. Mrs Andersen wrote his heart is much better but Drs.
fear kidney stone. Mr. Oulton up to supper & mtg. We had
communion service this morn.
Mon. Dec. 5
Wanjeri washed but says he is ill. Kesoi came with
an awful ulcer under his arm. said it was a boil. Mr. Oulton
did not come up as he said he was very tired. been out
poisoning meat. Wrote Mrs Shaffer. A parcel came for Roy D.
which I paid & will send to Kjb.
Tues. Dec. 6 Mrs. Barnett.
Wrote Mrs B. today. Rung bell for girls to come to
class. 3 women came: Wangare, Nareyu, & Silole. Jno had
4 out tonight. They will meet Sun. P.Ms. Wanjeri not here
today. Oultons boy will take letters. Tapped a very large
spring today - so hope it can be raised.
Wed. Dec. 7
Susana did their ironing. Wanjeri here again. Baked
bread. Men here from Uganda for fish. Mr. Oulton feeds them
so hasn’t been here to supper. Girls made chains. Etta
sewed. Ngoto Susana came too but machine was busy. Prayer
mtg tonight.
Thur. Dec. 8
No home mail but several local. Skoda wants to come
here for his vacation. Buxton wrote a lovely letter to us.
We hope he can come out here next mo. Spent some time in
school. Mr. Oulton here to supper.
Fri. Dec. 9
Telegram from Metters telling Scudder to go to
Kijabe til Xmas. He is to get a letter at Kijabe with
further orders for him. He wanted to leave at once tomorrow
but we have persuaded him to wait til Mon. & then take
the car. Theres so much to take & bring back.
Sat. Dec. 10
Full day. Wanjeri baked 10 loaves of bread. We left
ab’t 9 with Mr. Oulton in his car for a large plain down the
Narok. He shot a zebra & poisoned it. Then as we came
home he shot at wildebeest - found an airplane had been here
& soared around above the house. Perhaps it was Mr.
Clarke.
Sun. Dec. 11
Mtgs as usual. Rained pretty hard while we were in
the hospital. so I thot Mr S. better drive. We went to
Roaches after and exchanged books. Then all on this side of
the dukas it was dusty. A friend of Mr. Oulton came so Mr.
O. went back home for supper. No home mail for us. Scudder
got a letter. boat in today.
Mon. Dec. 12
Mr. Sc. got away about 9. Took Jack along for
company - he was pretty well loaded for I sent empty boxes.
We 3 had a nice swim tonight. They fished caught 8 tiny
ones. They helpt Jno cut up vocabulary. I wrote at Mrs
Shaffers letter.
Tues. Dec. 13
The girls had first class with Jno from 10-12. I
worked at letters & Xmas cards this PM & eve. Mr
Oulton is busy so wont come up to supper. His porters have
come but he hasn’t any definite word as to where he should
go - so has to await orders. Took a walk after tea. Kashisha
arrived from Kijabe.
Wed. Dec. 14
Gumati took letters & returned with a summons
for he hasn’t paid his tax - so we are giving him the money
& he’ll pay up tomorrow. Prayer mtg tonight & Mr
Oulton came to supper & staid. Lots of sewing these
days.
Thurs. Dec. 15
Such a nice mail tonight. A nice letter from
Claudon. Several Xmas cards and stockings from Moody. Took
til bed time to read all. Mr Oulton came up while at tea
A.M. to tell us he was off for Kisii. We are sorry for he
wont have a very Merry Xmas on safari.
Fri. Dec. 16 Claudon 1910
Prayer Day. Wonder if some one is baking a cake for
Claudon. I did. It got pretty nice. We ate a good bit for
supper. The girls helpt me swim & are very encouraging.
Wrote checks & christmas cards.
Sat. Dec. 17
Did a bit of baking then we went to the valley
below the falls for lunch & fishing. They caught quite a
number in the pool below the falls. Had a good swim. Miss
Glover says I must know how by Xmas. She is a great help.
Looking forward to our trip tomorrow.
Sun. Dec. 18
We left after S.S. Took lunch, Thermos & extra
shoes for the girls - but they didn’t need them. Mine rubbed
a blister open before I knew it so I put on Miss Grindleys.
Ana, Lois & Keneya went along. Not Sitoya. One new
patient had mumps! another had bandaged head. Tired tonight
so had no sing.
Mon. Dec. 19
Clarke came just as we finished supper. Expected
him last night. Miss Grindley not even stiff. Miss Glover is
- and my rubbed heel is sore. but we wouldn’t mind going
again. Mr. Clarke wants to eat Xmas dinner with us next Sun.
night. Haven’t heard from Skoda yet. Nor Barnetts.
Tues. Dec. 20
Lovely rain this P.M. & some this eve. Had no
tea but early supper. Mr. Clarke left today but will be back
Sat. & brings a sheep. Folks here may kill an ox - no
one knows so am asking Scudder to bring some. Mr Von Staden
was to be married today.
Wed. Dec. 21
Wanjeri didn’t come all day - has bad cold. Gumati
brot cough med. More rain this P.M. so no class. Made Ana of
S. a dress for a prize old white waist & creton skirt.
Will give Ida a doll. They are the only 2 who came every
Sun. all year.
Thur. Dec. 22 Alice
Awful rain tonight - lots of lightening. Morima
went for post & cashed cheque then got in so late for
post was late. Made packets for school. 2 pieces of fudge
& 2 of peanut brittle. Letter from Scudder to say he
can’t come til Fri. something wrong at car. Skoda comes the
30th.
Fri. Dec. 23
And at 11:30 last eve Mr. S. came in all the mud
& rain. Jno only heard him & got up. Takes his exam
tomorrow so is studying up today. Brot lots of lovely vegs
& fruit. So glad for all. Kijabe wanted us to come for
Mon. feed but too muddy & too far.
Sat. Dec. 24
Baked & cleaned & made candy. Have a pretty
good variety on hand. Am wrapping a piece of fudge & one
of peanut brittle & a few peanuts in bright paper for
S.S. & day school. Program tonight was only singing
& Psalms. Fair crowd out. Gave Ana a dress & Ida a
doll. Ana Soibi & Ida M. had perfect att.
Sun. Dec. 25
This has been sort of a strange Christmas because
it’s Sun. too. Had early morning mtg but none of us went.
but had S.S. & reg mtg & went to Narok this P.M. Got
such a lovely tea cloth from Mr. Scudder’s mother & such
a nice letter. Ladies gave Jno an Irish cake & me a pair
of swimming slippers. Their books haven’t come yet - that I
wanted to give them.
Mon. Dec. 26
We went up river to where the big spring comes into
Syabei. Had lunch of mushrooms and fried ham. My it was
good. Got back just a few min. before Janzens came in. both
of them. So glad to see them. They have car ready to go in
morning. Brot a native driver. Mr C here to supper too.
Tues. Dec. 27
A very full day. Janzens left by 9. and we were off
by 9:30 for the Loita plains. Stopt at Salt Swamp for lunch
& Clarke joined us - then went on to Limik. We went via
Guri Guri to Ollolonga and back down the Ngiro. Every one
very tired but enjoyed the day much. Saw hundreds &
hundreds of animals - were very close to topi.
Wed. Dec. 28 Mrs Shaffer
How well I remember a year ago when the 5
Kijabiites came in for Mrs S’s birthday party here. Pretty
well scattered now. Worked a bit at putting things away -
but mostly wrote letters to get off with Mr. S. on Sat. Miss
Glover has a nasty cold. Prayer mtg this eve.
Thur. Dec. 29 Mr. Devitt.
Thot of going to the Ngosor falls for fishing but
because of prayer mtg we put it off til tomorrow. & it
was well for it rained so hard this P.M. Morima brot a
lovely big mail. Such nice letters & two gifts of $1.
Miss Simpson wrote of Mrs De Groffs death - very sudden.
Another at rest. Telegram from Skoda - he will come Jan. 7.
Fri. Dec. 30
Went to Ngosor falls right after breakfast. Caught
a lot of black mud fish. took pictures & had
lunch. Got back ab’t 3. The men & Miss Grindley had a
swim. Miss G’s cold much better. Getting letters etc off
tonight for Mr S. to take tomorrow.
Sat. Dec. 31
At breakfast a note came from Tameno asking us to
take him to the hospital. So, tho Mr. S. had intended
walking we drove. I did the driving. He came back to our
road. then walked back to Narok. Mr. Clarke here to tea
& supper. Miss G’s cold is bad. but she’s doctoring for
it. I wasn’t a bit nervous driving back without Mr. S.
Sat. night. Dec. 31. [From “Memoranda”, back of
book.] In many ways this has been a wonderful year -
especially rich in new acquaintances; and such worthwhile
ones. these B.C.M.S. workers are so fine. There hasn’t been
much noticeable change in the spiritual atmosphere of our
native church - but there isn’t the bitterness either.
As we look into 1933 we wonder again what has the
yr. for us? Probably U.S.A. O may God guide us to know His
will. I hope if He doesn’t want us to go He will definitely
close the way - so we may know it is He doing it. We want
only His best. Claudon is getting valuable experience where
he is and Rymond has had the happiest experience he will
ever have in the finding of his life companion. god bless
them both & lead them out here in His own best time
& to the place He has for them to fill. During this next
year no doubt Mr Scudder & his Jessie will be married,
& go to Asambur. God bless them too.
One step forward for the past year is the opening
of the station at Lasit or Loitokitok. God’s hand was very
evidently in that. God bless the work there too. We praise
Him for all his goodness to us.
[inside back cover]
Nurses in Hospital
Mrs. Lawrie
Miss Mc Ewan
Miss Littlejohn
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