The Diaries of Arthur Peck, May 1862

Hertfordshire Archives & Local Studies

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1st May 1862             

Fine and very hot. Mother went to Harlow to meet Aunt Charlotte. A.C. sent David 2£. I finished blacking letters on tablet at Howe House. I went cricketing at night. We fixed Jerry Rayment’s ledger. I went for a walk with DB. Showery night and very hot. I was tired.  

6th May 1862            

Very fine and very hot. I and Jim at work at Hospital. Father went to Ware for a sink. I bought a fender and fire iron at a Sale at Medcalf’s, cost 5/6. DB came up here. David came here. We had a letter from Pris. Joe and Emma went to Temperance Tea Meeting at Ragged School. I went cricketing at night and down to DB. A very heavy thunder storm at night.    

7th May 1862            

Very heavy showers and cool. Joe went to Esqr. Thorntons for Mr. Brown. I did not get fender nor fire irons. I bought a new cloth hat and neck tie at Neal’s, 9s. 7/6 hat, 1/6 tie. I went down to DB’s at night. Very wet night. Our people went to Cowbridge C(hapel). I kept house. I was very tired. Jim sawing all day. Poor Billy Mardell got killed at the Old X Keys, some brick work.  

10th May 1862          

Very showery and cool. We were at work at B. Young’s, Briar House. I had a jolly row with Joe. I was very tired. I went down to DB at night. Father went to Bagford about Glassell’s stone.  

12th May 1862          

Fine and hot. We were at work at home. Fair day, very poor fair. We were offered 4£ for black cob. We took our cock to Dicker Mill to fight, got licked. A. Wareham died, and Johny Rayment yesterday. My great toe very painful. DB came up here. I went for a walk with her, damp night.