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THE STUDENT DIARY OF CHARLES ELLIS MARCH 10 TO JUNE 25, 1835 EDITED BY Ronald B. Head University of Virginia Charlottesville, Virginia Fall 1976[i]
INTRODUCTIONMarch 7, 1825, was a significant day in the life of Thomas Jefferson(P43611), for it was on that day that the University(CB0001) which he had struggled some forty-odd years to found first opened its doors to students and began classes. Approximately sixty students matriculated into the five schools then open. The professors were all "foreign," each having been recruited in England(PL6183) the previous year by Francis Walker Gilmer(P31348), and their foreign origin, while displeasing to many ardent nationalists, was a sign that Jefferson had scoured the world to secure the best possible professors for "his" University. [EVENT: Course Reference ] [EVENT: Curriculum ] [EVENT: University Administration:Personnel Decision ] George Long(P43620) and George Blaettermann(P45632) were accomplished and versatile linguists, one excelling in ancient languages, the other in modern. Robley Dunglison(P43624) served not only as Professor of Anatomy and Medicine but also as Jefferson's own private physician. Two eminent scientists Thomas Hewitt Key(P43622) and Charles Bonnycastle(P43623), taught, respectively, mathematics and Natural Philosophy.
During the next few months the University of Virginia expanded. By the end of the first session, 140 students would be in attendance, John Emmet(P43625) would be lecturing in Natural History, and George Tucker(P43619) would be firmly seated in the Chair of Moral Philosophy. The only reason that Gilmer(P31348) did not become Professor of Law, as intended by Jefferson, was because he was taken mortally ill.
Jefferson's University promised a radical departure from the customs and traditions operating at most American colleges of the time. For forty-six years Jefferson had been attempting to put his educational theories into actual practice, and at last his chance had come. His ideas concerning what a university ought to be were succinctly outlined a quarter of a century before the University of Virginia opened:
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We wish to establish in the upper country, and more centrally for the State, an university on a plan so broad and modern as to be worth patronizing with the public support, and be a temptation to the youth of other States to come and drink of the cup of knowledge, and fraternize with us. The first step is to obtain a good plan; that is, a judicious selection of the sciences, and a practical grouping of some of them together, and ramifying of others, so as to adapt the professorships to our uses and our means. In an institution meant chiefly for use some branches of science formerly esteemed, may be now omitted; so may others now valued in Europe(PL8625), but useless to us for ages to come.1[EVENT: Curriculum ] And, indeed, Jefferson did put into practice many of those ideas. Unlike most other colleges at that time, the University of Virginia was both a public and a secular institution. It was owned by the State of Virginia and maintained no ties with any religions affiliation. The rigid "Classical" curriculum, so prevalent in American higher education, was not adopted and, instead, an elective system was instituted, by which students wore free to enter any one of the eight schools which comprised the University. In addition, the curriculum was expanded to include such "useful" subjects as modern languages and medicine.Two other aspects of the University also deserve mention. Jefferson promoted the ideal of academic freedom, and there was no code of discipline for the students.
It was perhaps inevitable that disillusionment should succeed the inflated hopes of those supporting the University. Almost immediately, it became evident that, instead of acting with the decorum of scholars and gentlemen, the students engaged in almost
1 John S. Patton, Jefferson, Cabell and the University of Virginia (New York and Washington, 1906), p. 16.
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every schoolboy prank imaginable, and Professor Key, disgusted with the disorder in his classroom, sailed back to England after only two years at the University. Jefferson, much to his Chagrin, found that a code of discipline had to be instituted. Enrollment, too, was never as high as Jefferson would have liked. Expecting 300 students in the fall of 1826, Jefferson found that only 167 showed up. In the 1830's the number averaged slightly below two hundred, and the dropout and failure rates were excessively high. Part of the problem, as Bruce points out, was due to "the peculiarities of the elective system as compared with those of the curriculum," in which students had no "preordained course" to pursue and little incentive to return (since there were no degrees).2As the years went by, the Jeffersonian ideal declined, and the University, more and more, began to resemble any one of the numerous colleges along the Atlantic seaboard. And, as the Faculty overreacted to student discipline problems in their codification of rules and regulations, serious problems arose in the relationship between faculty and student body. In 1836 there was what might be termed a full-scale rebellion between dissident students and the faculty. Actual violence was only averted at the last minute. And, in 1840, Professor Davis(P33195) was assasinated by a student—an action which not only culminated the era of unrest and rebellion at Virginia but also shocked student and citizen alike.
What is amazing concerning the decline in ideals and conduct during these first, formative years in the history of the University of Virginia is that, really, there are very few first-hand accounts about the period. Phillip Alexander Bruce's(P37680) History is admirable
2 Phillip Alexander Bruce, History of the University of Virginia, 1819-1919: The Lengthened Shadow of One Man (New York, 1920), p. 72.
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in every respect, but it is hardly a "first-hand" account, being written nearly one hundred years after the University was founded. And, unfortunately, Dr. Bruce did not disclose the sources upon which he based his History.It is for this reason that the diary of a student named Charles Ellis, Jr.(P43085), is of such significance. This diary was written almost exactly one decade after the first students enrolled at the University, and it is a day-by-day account of student life in 1835. Ellis tells us what he studied, how he lived, and with whom he associated. We learn of duels, stabbings, accidental shootings, fancy balls, drinking, rowdiness, and vandalism. We also get personal glimpses of the various professors, see what they demanded of their students, and what they were like as human beings. Concerning Professor Bonnycastle(P43623), for example, Ellis writes: . . . his loss would be deeply felt by the Institution; for say what they may of the callousness of his heart, his head is not injured by it, and he is undoubtedly the main stay of the University; it may be that his seeming want of feeling is but the indifference with which worldly-mindedness looks upon the nicer qualities and finer affections, which young persons are so much accustomed to regard, but, if what is said be true, it might be suspected, that he was not more scrupulous with respect to the nicer shades and points of honor; so far in every kind of intercourse I have had with [him], he has appeared to be a gentleman in manners, as well as mind; and the truth is that no man can fill his post, of Chairman, without exciting a great deal of dislike. (pp. 93-94) Professor Blaettermann(P45632), one of the more colorful and eccentric characters at the University, is described in appropriate terms: Had a most glowing description of Bonny's(P43623) party, at which, for the amusement of the gaping crowd, old Blaet figured in a waltz with Miss Tutt(P47246), and to use one of Burwell's(P33180) similies, he looked, he doubt, like a hogshead of Tobacco, hard to start, but when once in motion, hard to stop, and moving on by his own weight, it being recollected
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that the honorable Professor, would, if our eyes may be the judges, weigh somewhere near 3 or 4 hundred pounds, and Miss Virginia(P47246) a light and airy form, she must have appeared like a fishing pole by the side of the Rotunda. (p. 52)We learn equally as much about Ellis's fellow students. The false bravado of Louis Wigfall(P32016), who claimed "that his father and brother had been each shot in a duel and it was his wish to die thus also," (p. 61) is admirably juxtaposed with the complaint of Benjamin Burwell(P33180), a student who accidentally shot himself in the hand and made "rather too much fuss about it, for a fellow of his age." (p. 75) The students with whom Ellis associated came from all parts of the South and display many different characteristics, ranging from inflated chivalry to pangs of guilt concerning lack of study.
Ellis lays himself bare in this diary, telling not only what he ate, and read, and saw, and did, but analyzing the torturous and twisting conflicts of conscience, which is the root of all human nature. He constantly laments his poor study habits and makes resolutions to develop into an indefatiguable scholar, and when he breaks these reolutions (as he inevitably does), we empathize with his humanity, remember our own inflated hopes, dreams, and schemes during our first year at college. And when Ellis actually does appear to be in danger of failing, we turn each page, eagerly searching for some reassurance that our friend will succeed in the end. Thus, the diary, while interesting from a purely historical perspective, becomes fascinating reading from a personal and psychological point of view.
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Charles Ellis, Jr., was born in Richmond(PL5273), Virginia, on March 23, 1817, and baptised in Norfolk(PL4433) by the Rev. John Philips(P47571) of the Cumberland Parish, Lunenburg(PL5677). His father, Charles Ellis(P44134) (1772-1840), had moved from Amherst County(PL5635) to Richmond in 1795, residing at the southwest corner of Franklin and Second Streets, and becoming a partner in the firm of Ellis & Allan(CB0651), a business firm, specializing in tobacco. The other partner in the firm, John Allan(P45058), was the foster-father of Edgar Allan Poe(P42269), and Poe and Ellis's older brother, Thomas(P43568), were close friends as children. Ellis's mother, Margaret Keeling Ellis(P46203), was a native of Norfolk and married Charles Ellis, Sr., on Nov. 13, 1813. In all, the couple had eight children, the eldest, Thomas, being born in 1815, and the youngest, Powhatan(P40530), being born in 1829. Charles was the third child.
When Ellis reached his teens, he was sent to Llangollen School(CB0934), located near Spottsylvania, Virginia(PL6395), where he studied under John Lewis(P47572). In September, l834, he first matriculated at the University of Virginia. He returned the following year, and then seems to have abandoned his studies at Virginia without obtaining a degree—a common enough happening at that time. He was then employed as a merchant in Richmond, the city where he spent the remainder of his life.
During the Civil War, Ellis distinguished himself as a Confederate supply and transportation officer, quickly rising to the rank of colonel. After the War, he rose high in the business world, eventually becoming President of the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad Company.(CB0650) Surprisingly—to those of us who have read his diary and heard of his "gallanting" the various belles of Charlottesville to dances or on promenades—Ellis never married. on July 19—or
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July 21—1900 he died. His obituary in the Richmond Dispatch(CB0861) was brief and simple— Ellis—Entered into rest, on Saturday, July 21, 1900 at 3:30 p. m. Mr. Charles Ellis, in the 84th year of his age. Funeral services from the residence, No. 307 West Franklin Street, on SUNDAY AFTERNOON at half past 6 o' clock. Friends of the family invited to attend. (Sunday, July 22, 1900) —but the eulogy by his family in A Memorandum of the Ellis Family (Richmond, 1849, rev. at a later date) was more fitting: True to all his duties, loyal to all his traditions, a Virginian of Virginians, he spent a useful life in the city of his birth, and died respected of all and beloved by his kinsmen.3The diary is transcribed as accurately as possible. Wherever a word has obviously been left out, or where the exact word is not certain, brackets appear. For the most part, the spelling, grammar, and composition have been left as they appear originally in the manuscript. The only exception to this is in the use of frequent semi-colons, necessitated by Ellis's distressing habit of separating sentences often with nothing but a comma. The original pagination can be determined from the numbers in the left-hand column. The numbers in the right-hand column are used as an aid for the annotations, which follow the main text, beginning on page 103.
3Sources used in tracing Ellis's biography include; Thomas H. Ellis, A Memorandum of the Ellis Family (Richmond, 1849); Richmond Dispatch (cited above); Virginia Magazine of History and Biography, 7:240; 15:343; 44:332; Earle Lutz, A Richmond Album (Richmond, 1937); and unpublished material from the Manuscript Division, Alderman Library, University of Virginia.
[1]
Diary of Chas. Ellis Jr.
University - Va.
March 10th 1835.[EVENT: Course Reference:History ] This day after three weeks study, stood and passed Examination in Roman History. News from Washington(PL4211) stating that Congress(CB0089) would adjourn without issue on French Bill;4 stuck in for want of something to fill up. Unusual languor, from my mind being freed from the excitement attendant on the first Graduating Examination.
March 11th 1835Passed in idleness, and in suspense with regard to event of Examination. Wishing for a letter from home, and thinking of my return there, in July.
Agreeable change in weather, almost as pleasant as the mildest part of Spring, the more agreeable from having been cooped up for many weeks by an unexampled continuation of snows. This day heard Mr. Pinckney(P47573) of South Carolina5, deliver an eloquent address, at the invitation of the Bible Society of the Students of the University(CB0936)6, very appropriate, and happy, in person short and rather unprepossessing, but as Mr. Tucker(P23467)7 says, proved a single-cat8.
[2]
Spent the evening at Mrs. Brockenbrough's(P44061)9 very pleasantly, the pleasure of visiting being much increased by a fine cold supper, a luxury to a starved student. This day much varied in comparison with a college life generally, by the foregoing events.
[2]
March 12th 1835Nothing of importance happens this day, save at the close a Balloon sett off amid the shouts of all college, which somewhat startled the astonished Mr. Pinckney, who, if it may be judged of by his address, thought us all Saints ready for Heaven. This day deserves a white stone10, Pleasants(P26988)11 having got news of the arrival of a Box of Cakes, somewhat an era for this month. The old Madame added a most villainous compound to our daily fare,12 by her called Catsup. Picked up an original Idea from a Kentuckian, viz: that the reason there were now no mammoths was, that Noah's ark was not large enough to hold them. Sad accident happened whilst writing this. My pen is lost in the Inkstand.
March 13th 1835.This day as monotonous as any other day in college. This day the cakes arrived, a confutation of the above, nothing to occupy myself in, except learn the various hopes and fears of
[3]
the Candidates who have passed their Examination. Much disappointed on hearing Kelly(P30825)13 would be rejected. This evening paid a visit to Miss Carter(P47058)14, the first for several weeks; hear a report, that she is to be married shortly; spent my time very agreeably; consider her a tolerably handsome girl; the only lady near the University with the slightest pretensions to dignity; use my endeavours with her to persuade her to come to the Ball to be given on the 20th Inst. Formed but a poor[3]
opinion of South Carolinians, from the specimins exhibited here. Proved clannish, idle and, from appearances, thinking that care is to be taken of the outward rather than the inner man; rather an uncharitable reflection this, however, there are some exceptions, for instance Alston(P30623), Johnson(P26655)15. 14th March 1835This day made out to get to breakfast when the bell rung16, something unusual; the breakfast not worth the trouble. Harrison(P25515)17 commenced lecturing on the [EVENT: Course Reference:Ancient Languages:Latin ] Etymology of the Latin Language, commenced copying his notes. Took a walk to Charlottesville(PL4204) in order to get my Geometry bound; admire the Irish filthiness of
[4]
its streets and console myself for the miserable condition of our own in Richmond(PL5273), by the reflection that they are not the worst in Virginia, and also by the expectation of the light about to be shed over our, hitherto, gloomy city, by the formation of the Richmond Gas Company(CB0937); return from town, soon enough for the mail, but disappointed in getting a letter; the thoughts of home, bring to mind passed times, my school boy days, when I had no care but for the present, and now entered into busy scene of life, to run a course whose termination no one can pretend to foretell; looking around and comparing myself with the many young men who are collected here, find myself with too little ambition to strive to be the greatest, and too much to suffer myself to be among the lowest. This evening took a walk with Hobson(P22593)18, the weather fine and inviting; saw many Robins, the "harbingers of spring." Reflections produced by the mild, good nature of my companion concerning the necessity of keeping good company, as I find myself constantly[4]
comparing myself with my associates, so if they prove of a good disposition it is a tacit reproach on my want of their good qualities; if they exhibit superiority of talent in any[5]
way it is an incitement to me to exert myself to equal or surpass them; and ever[y] day I become more and more convinced how hard it is to set aside Selflove. Recal the memory of the Illustrious Jefferson(P43611) and the appropriateness of the University's being placed in light of the residence of the greatest and purest patriot of America, to urge on the ambitious minds, and growing talents of many a future statesman, and perhaps hero of their country; startled from my reflections by a mighty shout from the Lawn(PL8427), made from no cause it would seem whatsoever. 15th March 1835.Weather still pleasant and every appearance of a mild and clear day; nothing to pass off time save the Lectures. This day no event happened worthy of notice, closed with an attendance on the Society(CB0011)19, where we had an interesting debate; first appearance of a new member, King(P43092) of Alabama(PL4236)20, very fluent, and it would seem of good judgement. This day the spring-like blandness of the hitherto gloomy weather has recalled home, and its many long-to-be-remembered scenes.
[6]
Sunday 16th March 1835.Rising late find the weather unpromising, and hear with astonishment that it had thundered the proceeding night. A novel, The Cruise of the Midge21, my sole employment for the day; after dinner, attended church in Charlottesville, and the Miss
[5]
Carters home. A clear evening after an unlikely day. Cogitate over the various reasons which may have drawn the people assembled, to church. Consider the similarity of the Christian church to many of the heathen religions22, and come to the conclusion it is but a code of the best laws of Virtue, which must more or less pervade every religion, but turning to the many testimonies of its divine origin, the unerring certainty with which it points out the crimes and faults of mankind, conclude it to be, what it has always been declared, and even granting it to a delusion, better to still remain in that delusion, than leave the definition of virtue to every man's conscience, and the improvement in all the better qualities in civilized countries proves incontestably its benefit to man. Make a wild conjecture that the many miracles contained in the Sacred Volume, are no more than allegories or similies which have their force more in their explanations than the events described. The night commences with heavy and dark masses of clouds which portend that this fickle climate is again[7]
about to make an unwished for change. The croaking of the frogs recal recollections of Llangollen(CB0934)23 and the happy times spent there; when life was simple, and the many passions which serve to torment mankind, were unknown, or unfelt by me.[8]
Monday 16th March 1835.Rose late, the better part of the day spent in Lectures. This day sent a letter to Thomas(P43568) and received one from James(P46204)24. A walk in the evening the only variation of usual monotony. That is, usual when a man like myself has nothing to employ himself in. After a promenade on the Lawn(PL8427) with W. M. H.(P25843) of Goochland(PL4386)25 and discussing the merits of various beauties about here, and the
[6]
disposition of the S. Carolinians in college, adjourned to my Dormitory and prepared a Lecture and then to bed. Tuesday 17th March 1835After a pleasant day, took a walk to the Observatory(PL8635). Nothing of interest this day, save that the students, at a meeting this evening nullified the resolution of the Visitors(CB0042)26, "that the Faculty should elect one orator and essayist, and the students one each and that these last should give in their votes at the Proctor's Office," by resolving "That no student would accept an appointment from the Faculty, and that if any one did accept, we would not listen to him when speaking, and "that we
[9]
would meet on the Lawn(PL8427) on Saturday, 21st Match, and proceed to the election." Wednesday 18th March 1835.Weather gloomy, after mild and pleasant season for the two or three days past. Went to Charlottesville for my books, carried down to be bound, but like all mechanics27, a day later than their promise, they were nearly done, and should certainly have them on Friday. In the evening saw Miss M. C. pass(P47058) to Madame Gray(P43865)'s28, and much disappointed at finding she had returned home, when in the evening I agreed with Harrison(P25843) to visit her.
Thursday 19th March 1835Rising time enough for breakfast, and after attending [EVENT: Course Reference:Modern Languages:French ] French Lecture, a mere farce, moved about to listen to the various conjectures concerning the elections, universal opinion that Hill(P24285)
[7]
of Portsmouth(PL4269)2929 will be elected first-orator, a young man whom I do not know enough of to form an opinion, but should judge from appearances, to be somewhat proud of his popularity, very retiring however, and playing and associating with the merest child.[10]
It rained last night, and notwithstanding we had warm and pleasant weather the several days preceeding, yet the change, in this bleake place was such as to freeze the rain on the trees, and this morning, when the sun broke through the clouds, the whole appeared like some fairy land; but the bare hills and keen wind recals one from such thoughts as those; for the University is situated in a kind of valley between two ridges, the first called Carter's Mountain(PL9217), in which Monticello(PL8532) is comprised, and the other the first spurs of the Blue ridge, which are seen plainly from the Observatory(PL8635), sweeping nearly due north and south, whence we have the benefit of every chill blast that whistles down the north west, and it really seems that this is the first place that the wind touches after passing over the usually, snowy mountains of the Ridge. This day finished the first volume of Middleton's life of Cicero30; no one can help admiring the greatness of his talents, and lamenting the misfortune of his destinies, and tho' the author[11]
evidently is biassed in favour of his hero, it. is clearly seen that Cicero had many foibles which sometimes interfered to the prejudice of the Republic, 'tis strange that Pompey and Cicero, undoubtedly the two first men of the Republic, for Caesar's influence was more felt than seen now, should have exhibited the same fault, vanity, to such a degree as to cause the greatest mortification to them both, Pompey by the hootings of the rabble and jeers of actors, Cicero, with better cause, tho'[8]
still not excusable, by being driven out by a factious tribune, and Cicero's affliction, under his banishment, might lead one to suppose that his courage in public affairs, proceeded rather from his vanity, in interpreting the Goodwill of both Senate and the people than any personal firmness, but it is more charitable to give him credit, for what his historian tells, that the opposed Caesar, and the enemies of the republic with his own resources alone, his fault was to suffer himself to be duped, by his vanity, by Pompey and Octavius.[12]
20th March 1835. Friday.Rose early in comparison with my usual hour; attended [EVENT: Course Reference:Ancient Languages:Latin ] Latin Lecture. Spent the evening last night at Dr. Carter's(P47574), where I was completely caught, Miss Mary(P47058) having gone out to spend the evening at Mrs. Cochran's(P27596), in hopes of seeing Dr. L. Cabell31 an American lately returned with a stock of French airs, and two French men, [from France] and being compelled to sit two mortal hours, with a talkative old maid. This evening passed at the Ball, given by the Boarders at Perrow's Hotel(PL8595)32, where I saw [the] Miss Higgenbottams , and the Miss Conways33 just the day before returned from Fredericksburgh(PL4252); a pretty pleasant evening, notwithstanding Miss Tutt(P47246) 34 showed her mighty displeasure at my want of attention to her, having not visited her for nearly a month. Introduced to Miss Martha Coiners(P47577)35, with whom I was placed in a very awkward position at a Ball given in Charlottesville some two or three weeks ago; when I was most unfortunately caught, or rather she caught her glove on the hook which fastened my coat, and there I stood for a minute or so opposite her,
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amidst the laughter of those who saw us.[9]
21st March Saturday 1835Felt the effects of the last night's debauch most sensibly, a violent headache and nausea. Today the election or orators and essayists came on, and after the committee, who were appointed to apprise the Faculty of our former proceedings had handed in their report, it was proposed by them that we make a compromise with the Faculty, namely: that we would vote at the Proctor's office if we might have the privilege, of electing both orators and essayists, supported with much warmth by Bouldin(P47765) and Goode(P40790), and opposed by Burfoot(P21804) and Burrus(P26328), the motion was lost; a proposition was made by Stanard(P30132)36, "That we will agree to elect one orator and one Essayist, and recommend another of each to the Faculty to be approved by them, if They would agree for us to elect on the Lawn(PL8427). Proceeded to the Lawn, and went into an Election,
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when Hill(P24285) was elected 1st Orator by acclamation, Goode(P40790) in the same manner 2nd orator, Ogden(P25432)37 1st Essayist, Bouldin(P39401) 2nd. The committee appointed to communicate Stanard(P30132)'s motion to the Chairman(P43623), reported that the Faculty had no authority to make any such agreement, and that we cannot have the [EVENT: Official University Celebrations and Events:Public Day ] Public day in the Rotunda.After visiting the Miss Conway's(P44225) with Kelly(P30825), and seeing there a Miss Gregory(P47578) from Fredericksburgh(PL4252), returned home and took a gentle nap. evening passed in reading a novel.
22nd March, Sunday 1835.Roused before day-break with a serious commotion in my stomach, after going out to satisfy the call of nature rose about breakfast time, and found myself suffering pretty considerably for my indulgence at the Ball. In the evening notwithstanding
[10]
my feeling rather unwell walked down to Charlottesville to church, heard Mr Cobbs(P47598)38 commence a sermon which he had preached before, in the Rotunda, and took a comfortable nap roused up[15]
just-time enough to hear him announcing all visiting on Sunday. Went with Trigg(P43554) and Cary(P41338)39 to Dr. Carter's(P47574), but was again disappointed pointed in seeing Miss M.(P47058) and after walking back through a keen northwester, and losing my supper, rested my-self for the night. 23rd March Monday 1835[EVENT: Student Misconduct:Drinking ] This day attended Gess(P25515) and old Bonny(P43623)40 till 11. Monotony of college somewhat broken by the interest excited about the fate of two or three fellows, who took it into their head to get corned on the result of the elections, and were seen by Davis(P33195)41; Trigg(P43554), Gray(P47576)42, and Kelly(P30825) called up. Hill(P24285), Burfoot(P21804), Kelly(P30852) and Newton(P22504)43 sett off an foot, this evening for the Natural Bridge(PL6418).
The weather windy and very blustering, withall a real cold March day. This evening attended the Moot Court(CB0987) where I heard a most interesting debate, tho on a case of Law, it was however a novel one, and was forcibly sustained by Stanard(P30132); if he can conquer that impediment in his speech, and acquire a greater flow of words he will become a great lawyer, never a very pleasant
[16]
public speaker, as he seems almost totally devoid of Imagination or Fancy. King(P43092) here is exactly the contrary, save that he appears to have equally as good a judgement, but so brilliant a Fancy, and so well read in polite Literature, that, he cannot utter the most common subject without some imagery, or some poetical quotation, with which his memory seems stored.[11]
March 24th Tuesday 1835.Dr. Smith(P43949)44 caught me a napping this morning. Spent the better part of the day in preparing for Harrison(P25515) Lecture tomorrow. The old Lady(P43865)45 gave us a most abominable dinner; and Burfoot(P21804), who has just come back, having given out his trip to the Bridge46, has started a most abominable Quiz47, that Newton(P22504) had broken his arm; all smoke however. This evening spent the evening, with Peter Carr(P34852), at Mrs. Conway's(P44225), Miss Bet(P47197) 48 a very fine girl and if she had have had a liberal and polished education, would have made a splendid woman; appears to have an excellent disposition, and entirely free, from that common Vane of Society, affectation.
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Trigg(P43554) and Gray(P47576) dismissed, Kelly(P30825) sent off for two months 49, this last decision a most unjust one, for drinking two or three glasses of "vin"50 in honour of the election to be sent off for a month, but the Faculty are somewhat sore about the firmness with which we carried the elections against their vetoes. March 25th 1835 Wednesday.Considerable excitement about the unjust sentence against Kelly(P30825). Fair and pleasant weather for the last three days. Spent the better part of the day in attending Lectures. After dinner went to a meeting of the Subscribers to a Ball, to be given by Mrs Gray's(P43865) boarders51 on the 13th of April; appointed a manager; in the evening managers met, where I was appointed, with Wilson(P35193)52 to superintend the sending the wine and eatables to the ladies; suppose this honorable appointment was procured me thro' the intervention of the honorable Mr. Gretter(P24783)53, who seems desirous to get everything into his own hands, quite a merry and facetious
[12]
youth, would as better to think more and laugh and talk less.[18]
March 26th 1835 Thursday.A pleasant morning; attended old Blaet's(P45632)54 Lecture, and found the old gentleman in a fine humor; very witty, and making attempts at puns as usual. Took a walk down to Charlottesville; learnt that Miss Mary(P47058) had left for Union Mills(PL9103), to stay a month, hope however to have her company at our Ball. Really it seems as if two weeks of good weather in the winter was an impossibility here; just after dinner clouded up and in a short time commenced a slow rain, and now at half past nine my ears are saluted with the sound of the rain dropping off the eaves of the house. Professor Davis(P33195) gives a party to night, but as I am unacquainted have not an invitation.
March 27th 1835 Friday.Old Bonny(P43623) gives our Lecture hour to the Seniors today. Nothing of interest enough to mark this day. In the evening took a walk as usual to the Observatory(PL8635).
[19]
March 28th Saturday 1835.Rose quite early. After attending [EVENT: Course Reference:Modern Languages:French ] French Lecture, went down town to see whether I could get a pair of Pants and vest suitable for the coming Ball, nothing in all Charlottesville worth the buying. Received a letter from George(P47238) to day, immediately after I had sent one off to him, revives my spirits very much to renew the intercourse between my old friend; Tells of a very good joke about Ned Howard's writing some, pretty
[13]
verses on Juliet Massie(P47586), and Fred Brown's publishing them in the Compiler(CB0864)55. In the evening spent a dull and uninteresting time at the Society(CB0011): too much etiquette, and a disposition to browbeat every person who may not be of superior talents or impudence enough to overlook their sneers; perhaps 'tis better that such a spirit should exist in College; it gives one a foretaste of what he may expect in the world, but It represses the inclination for improvement which might otherwise break out. Sunday March 29th 1835.Rose time enough to prepare for breakfast; immediately after started for Monticello(PL8532); arrived there about ten, after being
[20]
exposed to a cold wind, accompanied with snow, left the hill and[21]
determined to go to the top of Carter's Mountain(PL9217), much higher than Monticello, after some difficulty in the ascent reached the summit, and then truly we were repaid for all our trouble; such a scene burst upon our sight, before a mighty expanse of plain, mostly covered with trees along the foot of the ridge, for miles the country is cleared and presenting a beautiful contrast to the dark green foliage of the pine beyond, the Rivanna winding in among the woods, and now appearing for a short distance, like some tiny lake amidst the vast extent of country lying before us, still farther on at an immense distance appear the ragged tops of mountains seeming to rise from out the plain, but [in] reality surrounded by mountains, which the distance conceals. Farther still, but more to the west appear the long range of the Blue ridge clearly defined against the, elsewhere darkened sky, for now[21]
this fickle climate has, to our great dissapointment, clouded up the sky, and marred the beauty of the prospect, but after a walk[14]
to a higher peak the clouds have again broken and left the lovely scene below in its original beauty, nay enhanced it, by the contrast, and many a wish we have expressed to pass our time here, but the keen winds again remind me that the body as well as the mind and eye must be pleased; after walking several miles on the ridge and lingering to look at and enjoy the splendid view begin to descend a precipitous part of the mountain, much to the annoyance of my companion who is tortured with all the misery of a tight shoe, and every step his foot racked by the galling of the stiff leather unto a part made raw by the walking. March 30th Monday 1835.Rose today time for breakfast, which I had not expected after such a walk as we took yesterday. Morning clear, but the neighboring mountains covered with snow. After attending Harrison's(P25515)
[22]
and old Bonny's(P43623) Lecture, walked to Keller's(PL8528)56, where I spent more than a prudent person would deem right; but a man can scarcely go to Charlottesville without coming back with a purse somewhat lighter than when he sett out. Commenced writing to Jane(P47352)57, but was interrupted by a call to the manager's meeting, who were appointed to superintend the management of the Ball; here we had a most florious scene, a mighty Georgian, had the floor, and he was describing the Bill of fare, which was to be prepared for the Supper, amongst other articles johnny-cakes, molasses, Dumplings, honey, and scrambled eggs, what a sett of dishes for a Supper to be given on Jefferson's(P43611) birthnight, half college will be dead next day from indigestion. Things would not go straightly, but after much disputation it was settled, that is every matter, even to whether we should have Ice-cream in saucers or glasses, the[15]
Georgian supporting the latter side, having been accustomed to eat the above mentioned Ice cream out of glasses at Keller's and hence a conclusive argument that we should have them at the Ball, for so[23]
the Georgian seemed to think so.The clock strikes ten, the hour is high,
When I to lead en Somnus hie58:
With wearied, and unquiet breast,
I lay my troubled head to rest.
But why should I repine? since I perceive,
That others feel, the same pang for which I grieve;
It is enough, and I will bear,
The troubles which may be my share;
Howe'er three blessing would I ever keep,
My Friendship, Love, and a sound Sleep.
This written this night first attempt of the kind since my arrival here.
And have I stood upon the grave
Of him, whose vast and patriot mind
To his oppressed Country gave
Freedom, and her rights defined.
When he, tho' menaced by a haughty king,
His proud defiance hurl'd,
Was he not to his country opening
The pathway to the world?
Was not England's self astounded
At the high toned Declaration?
Tho' not by him was Liberty first sounded
To our brave and freeborn nation.
[16]
[24]
And tho' he raised not the first stone
Of our stupendous Constitution,
Who [carried?], but he, the fabric on
Through many an arduous revolution?
And lies he here? whose fame
Even kings themselves might seek,
Does he no tribute from his country claim,
His mighty deeds to speak?
Oh! place him with our Washington(P44390)!
Oh sett him with our lov'd Henry!
For 'tis but once a Jefferson
On this base earth we see.
These lines were written on seeing the grave Jefferson(P43611) covered only by a simple column of granite and that not at the expense of the states59.
March 31st 1835 Tuesday.After rising before six, attended [EVENT: Course Reference:Modern Languages:French ] French Lecture, and at half past eleven started for Charlottesville taking Keller's(PL8528) in the way, and Burwell(P33180)60 along with me; at Marshal's(PL9219) got a pair of shoes, and had my Tacitus bound at Watt's(PL8520)61. After declining at an exercise in Latin thro' the evening, and taking supper, walked out with Crump(P32248)62, and agreed to go with him to see the Miss Conway's;(P44225)
[25]
from eight 'till half past ten P. M. sett with the Ladies, made an arrangement with Bet(P47197) to walk to the Observatory(PL8635) tomorrow evening; somewhat surprised at the license allowed the students in Ladles' Company. Came away not much improved by this evening's and at eleven prepared for my rest.[17]
April 1st Wednesday 1835.Rose this morning earlier than usual. Took a walk with Hobson(P22593); after attending Harrison's(P25515) Lecture went round with the last number of New York Mirror(CB0868)63 to see Bet Conway(P47197) and give her the same; Crump(P32248) and my self contrived a quiz for Miss Gregory(P47578)64 in the shape of a note from Bonnycastle(P43623), requesting her attendance at his office, but Bet told on me too soon. Wrote Jimmie(P46204)65 a letter today and missed Bonny's Lecture, as well as Blaet's(P45632) in the evening, when I walked with the ladies to the Observatory(PL8635) according to agreement. Had quite an agreeable chat with Miss Gregory, somewhat amused with the ladies fears in mounting the window to get up on the top of the building; eat supper with Conway's(P44225) family, and went to Patterson's Lecture on Electricity(P43634) 66 to see his experiments, not very interesting.
[26]
Party at Tucker(P43619)'s to night, listened for a length of time at the singing of Miss Brown, Miss Tucker(P47593) and others; two Miss Browns, from Lynchburgh(PL4371), and Miss Tucker67, daughter of Judge Tucker(P43676), at present visitors to the University, having no acquaintance with any of Professor Tucker(P43619)'s family, have no invitation, so that I cannot have the pleasure of meeting the above mentioned ladies before the Ball, which is one of the worst places to make an acquaintance, especially with a belle, as a person can scarcely edge in more than one or two words, the whole evening. Lament my want of firmness in carrying on my studies; as from my observa- tions am led to judge that close application adds to a man's happiness, and influences his conduct for the better; bring to mind how often I have looked for some means of raising my confidence in myself, seeing that it is necessary, and cannot devise a more suitable plan that of hard study, for I have noticed that when one rises after having studied closely whatever may be[18]
necessary both for his standing in class and at the Examinations,[27]
he will feel a right confidence in himself, and moreover render his conduct more pleasant and mild towards every one, there fore do determine, so far as my resolution will go, to apply myself more closely than heretofore68. April 2nd Thursday 1835.Rose this morning, as I have done for some days past, quite early, took a walk with Hobson(P22593). Weather pleasant, mild, and during the middle part of the day summer-like, and rather inclined to be warm. Attended Blaet's(P45632) French, and afterwards, spent sometime in preparing for Gess(P25515) Lecture of tomorrow; did not keep my resolution concerning studying, so well as I could have wished, but better than usual. No letter today; somewhat surprised at James'(P46204) long silence, and also Jim Carter's(P47627)69. A little variety in the shape of cherry-pies at dinner: one Louisianian asked whether cherries ripened here in April.
Hill(24285) and his squad returned about 1, from their trip to the Natural Bridge(PL6418), also they visited the Peaks of Otter(PL9215)70, and preferred the Bridge to the Peaks. Wasted the whole evening away, part of which was spent in the Library, reading Massinger's play of
[28]
"A new way to pay old debts"71; the chief part of Library(PL8630), which comprises more than 7,000 volumes72 are in other Languages our own, mostly French, and Latin, many of the latter owing their chief value to their Antiquity. A party at Dr. Patterson's(P43634) to-night, but as my acquaintance, among the Professor's, is limited to my immediate teachers, I have not an invitation. After having sett a long time in Wilson(P35193)'s rooms, and walking on the Lawn(PL8427) with him, [EVENT: Student Misconduct:Drinking ] went into Lewis'(P24108)73 room to drink wine, had a glorious frolick over[19]
a couple of Bottles74, one Sherry other Madeira, great deal of noise, and uproar; came away at 2, with a severe headache. Heard Leecock(P33034)75 recite the first part of Richard III very appropriately, as his person is very well adapted to the description. April 3rd Friday 1835.Rose early, and after Breakfast attended Harrison's(P25515) Lecture; at Bonnycastle's(P43623) found myself so sleepy and with such a violent Headache, that I could scarcely stick the Lecture out, this the effects of my last night's debauch; suffered severely all day for
[29]
my frolic. After Bonny Lecture went down to Watt's Bookbinder(PL8520) in Charlottesville, for my Tacitus: when returning saw Mr.(P44094) & Mrs. McKennie(P44418)76, the latter of whom has just returned from the north, and called on Thomas(P43568)77 in New York(PL4217), but he was out; treated myself to a new breast-pin, from those brought on by McKennie. In the evening took a long nap, which somewhat restored my faculties, they before being clouded by the afore mentioned Headache. After supper went down to spend the evening with Mrs. McKennie; met Jones, Trueheart(P27886), and Woods(P43808)78, there engaged in a game of Whist with Mr. Mc., took a game of Backgammon with Mrs. Mc., the first attempt I ever made at the game. After quite a pleasant visit, notwithstanding my un- pleasant feelings, came home, tired, and contrary to my usual custom retired to bed before writing my Diary. April 4th 1835, Saturday.Rose refreshed by my night's rest, but finding a gloomy day, sky overcast, and a slow, drizzling rain. Several fellows went to Milton(PL9104)79, on the other side of the Rivanna about 5 miles from here,
[20]
to hear the candidates for the County80 speak, all of whom with be[30]
there; declined going, fearing lest It should interrupt the regular course of my studies, tho' Heaven knows, I do not apply myself very closely to them, notwithstanding many firm resolutions to that effect; Blaet(P45632) does not Lecture today so that I have the whole day to myself. Heard from Jeffery(P35241) that Bob Hill(P47628)81 had paid him a visit day before yesterday, but that he was in such a hurry that he could not call to see the rest of his old schoolfellows of Llangollen(CB0934). Made a long visit to Bet Conway(P47197) this morning, and after spending an hour or two very agreeably left with her Album to write some pieces in it; wrote a couple of original pieces, and one from my extracts. In the evening had a thunder shower, tho' not much rain, continues rain[in]g even until now, 12 Oclock. Attended Society(CB0011) to night, very disorderly meeting; much speaking on the question under Debate, "whether West Point(CB0187)82 ought to be abolished or not," decided in the negative; A new member, Wigfall(P32016)83, from S. Carolina(P4249), joined in the debate with a good deal of ardor; and plunged headlong into nullification, and Secession at the bare mention of S. Carolina's course in 183284.[31]
April 5th. Sunday, 1835.Spent the day principally in reading Scot's novel, "Bride of Lammermoor,"85 a touch of the wonderful as usual, but withal, very interesting. Went to church, the first time for several Sundays, and had the pleasure of walking home with Miss Bet Conway(P47197). In the evening took a walk to the Observatory(PL8635) mountain with Pleasants(P26988).
April 6th Monday 1835.Rose time for breakfast; and rejoiced to see a fine day as the
[21]
elections come on today. Harrison(P25515) remitted Lecture, and find myself at eight, in Charlottesville among a respectable number of the gentlemen freeholders; saw Rives(P43635)86, surrounded by a troop of vagabonds, shaking hands with every ragmuffin, who came up, enquiring, "how their families are," and "remarking the bad weather for corn," and endeavouring by such byplay, to make a favorable impression, and to lead on to more serious conversation, but all would not do, and after having sat the whole day, listening to the challenging of votes, and clapping of boys, the polls turned against him, and the whig candidates were elected87. Great excitement among the people, some persons were brought in, from a sick bed, and one, but a few[32]
days before had been at the point of Death. About two, went with Bouldin(P39401) to see Miss Mary(P47058)88, who has just returned from the Union location Mills(PL9103); found her in fine spirits, and past my time so agreeably, that dinner was announced before we left, and we compelled to stay, tho' to our great joy, as it saved us the expense at Vowles'(PL8552)89; after dinner our attention was called to a mighty uproar at the Court House(PL9331), and for the gratification of the ladies, went up to learn the cause, found it merely a fight between two countrymen, and after finding out the state of the polls, returned with a very cheering account to Mrs. Southall(P47519)90, who was then at Dr. Carter's;(P47574) left there about half an hour before sunset; on returning to the Court House met with two Gaits, who have come up, from Richmond(PL5273) to vote for the Whig candidates. Got back to college quite tired and fatigued, somewhat chilly too, from the keen wind blowing from off the mountains, which the Galts91 were very much surprised to find covered with snow.[22]
April Tuesday 7th 1835Quite a pleasant day, and after spending the fore part in endeavouring to put my pants in a suitable condition to make a visit in, went down to Keller's(PL8528), returning, got a letter out of
[33]
the office, which had arrived the day before, from Rawlings(P47238)92, very agreeable and he seems to be happy and enjoying himself very much. in the company of Miss Juliet Massie(P47586): a letter from a friend rouses my spirits, and tho it may throw a slight shade of melancholy over me, to think of the time we were together, yet I feel a soothing and a silent pleasure in bringing to mind the days we may have spent together, this is peculiarly the case with those of George(P47238), where memory has something more than a common intimacy to send a charm, and with whom I have spent, what I shall ever consider, as, my happiest days, and I often ask, whether this friendship, begun and carried on so pleasantly hitherto, will last, when we are thrown on the cold and calculating scenes of manhood, and tho', from what I have seen, heard, and read, I ought to judge not, yet I cannot but flatter myself, that as it has and shall be my constant care to preserve it yet many little incident may happen to mar that intercourse, which I would give worlds to continue through life. C[a]ptain Partridge(P43952)93 delivered his intro- ductory this evening, and we hope to get up a company.[34]
April Wednesday 8th 1835.Rose as early as usual, and after a walk, and breakfast attended Harrison's(P25515) and Bonny's(P43623) Lecture: then went down to Keller's(PL8528) with William Harrison(P25843) of Goochland, a fine youth, but who is likely to fall a prey to dissipated companions, he has a
[23]
high sense of honour, and a good temper, as well as good disposition, is not very quick, more, I think, from want of culture than any natural deficiency, and he is now anxious to leave his present room, for some more studious neighborhood, and if he applies himself, with his high connections, and superior advantages, may distinguish himself in after life, tho' much fear, he is more envious of being thought, what is here called, a fine fellow, than in improving his mind. I have already some intimacy with him. News from the Elections coming in and the students, who advocate the whig side, are very much elated with the defeat of McDowell(P47630), the Jackson leader94 in the last Legislature. Went to carry Bet Conway's (P47197) Flora to her, just before Supper, in which I had the time to write a couple of stanzas of my own composition.[35]
In the evening went down to Charlottesville to see Miss Mary(P47058), found her and Miss Lucy(P47185)95 both in and spent so agreeable a time, that I found on coming away, to my great astonishment, that it was half after ten and we got there about eight. She says the Miss Timberlake's96 will be up to our Ball and I have engaged her(P47059) hand for first sett. Learnt to day that a bridal party are expected from Richmond going to Miss Nanny Bierne'swedding97. On my return last night from Charlottesville, heard a fine seranade, by Magill(P30211) and Lieper Patterson(P32066)98, who were regaling the Miss Browns with their music about seven; these Miss Browns have become quite belles, and are very much visited and attended to. It is rumoured that Dr. Patterson(P43634) intends resigning his situation here99 to offer for Dr. Cocke's place in the medical department at Philadelphia(PL4362), which is said to be also sought by Dr. Dunglison(P43624)100.[36]
[24]
April 9th Thursday 1835.Rose at usual time and found the weather very pleasant as it has, to our great amazement, been for the last week; attended Blaet's(P45632) Lecture, and then sat down to write off my Diary, which I had neglected for several days, being very much interested with the elections, and my visits to the ladies. Spent some time in writing off Gess(P25515) notes on Etymology, and then read Swift's works until dinner. After dinner resumed my reading until Crump(P32248) and myself took a walk out toward the Observatory(PL8635), met The Miss Leipers101, and Miss Browns. Attended Partridge's(P43952) Lecture, at six, and after trying to prepare Bonny's(P43623) and Harrison's(P25515) Lectures for the next day, gave up, and Pleasants(P26988) and myself walked out, in a most beautiful night, when, save the croaking of the marsh frog, or the twitter of a startled kildeer, not a sound was to be heard.
April Friday 10th 1835.After rising early, took my morning's walk with Pleasants(P26988); after breakfast attended Bonny's(P43623) and Harrison's(P25515) Lecture, and was near going to sleep at the former; next went down to Charlottesville with Pleasants, to see if my Pants, which I sent for to
[37]
wear at the Ball, were arrived; on the way saw Miss Mary McKenzie(P47634) and Anne Triplett(P47603)102 in the Staunton stage, very sorry that I did not have an opportunity of speaking with them as Lizzy(P47314)103 had returned from Philadelphia(PL4362) before they started. Directly after dinner, went down town, with Dubose(P38941), to see about the saucers, and other utensils, necessary for the Ball; met Dewitt, the Engineer, who has just married Miss Brown, and is now carrying her to Charleston(PL4589) in Kenhawa(PL5638): he informed me that Miss Mary Porteaux(P47635)104 was with him and[25]
had a bundle for me, my Pants; returned to college, and found Cpt. Partridge(P43952) engaged in Drilling his squad, whilst looking on, was told that Miss Porteaux was in the Rotunda, and wished to see me; walked through the Library with her, and then down town again, the third time today. Received my bundle and a letter from ma, In which, she speaks of Caroline Lambert(P47590)'s being engaged to Marshal105, grandson of Chief Justice Marshal. Old Gess(P25515) gives a party to night, and quite a large one, tho' not a class party. Think I must get acquainted with the Professors' families.[38]
April 11th 1835. Saturday.Old Doctor Smith(P43949) caught me in bed this morning for the first time this month, because he has not been around before. After breakfast carried my pants down to Price's(PL8522)106 to be made, and after having in vain attempted to have the pleasure of seeing Miss Mary(P47058), who was at Dr. Harrison's(P25515) last night; my hopes were wrecked up by her going down to Charlottesville, as well as Goode's(P40790), who was very anxious to visit her with me, tho' tis said he is desperately smitten with one of the Miss Brown's of Lynchburg. Next went to town, with Mills(P24284)107, to take leave of Miss Brown, and Porteaux(P47635), who left about half past ten; then made a visit to Miss Ward(P43909), where I had the felicity of seeing Miss Lane(P47636), a boarder of Mrs. Kelly(P47592)108, who from what I can hear, is a stiff-necked, antiquated old Dame, who thinks a student the abomination of the earth, and vessel of iniquity; notwithstanding the old lady being out of town, had a fine walk with Miss Lane, and Mary Ward, a slight shower coming on just about Mud Castle(P9326)109. We sojourned there for a
[39]
few minutes, and then continued our promenade to the University, where we visited the Miss Conways(P47197), and finally left the ladies[26]
to make the best of their way to Charlottesville with Miss Ward's Cousin, notwithstanding that both Mills and myself were most highly pleased with our adventure of meeting one of the young ladies of the nunnery, as Mrs. Kelly's Boarding House is most appropriately denominated, (that by us.). Got to the University just before Dinner hour, and immediately after that meal, went down to Charlottesville with Goode(P40790) to visit Miss Mary(P47058), took up Munford(P39037)110 on the way and on arriving had some hopes of spending a very agreeable evening when in came a troop [of] ladies, both old and young, and finding our conversation interrupted, we shortened our visit, and Goode and myself visited Miss Ward, the second of my visits to her to day. After staying there just time enough to lose our supper we reached college after a hard walk, but came too late to get supper, and adjourned to the Society(CB0011), where but a slim debate took place, only one gentleman, and he on the negative side of the question, spoke; upon leaving the Jefferson Hall(PL8589), Determined to wait on the Miss Conways, this the second of my visits there[40]
today; after admiring the conversational powers of Goode and the good sense, and amiable disposition of Miss Bet(P47197) we adjourned at a late hour, and took some coffee and bread at Goode's room as a substitute for supper, and now after having spent one day more agreeably than I have done for many a month, I pray for many such more, and may the foul fiend take every fellow who does agree, that women are a great addition to the happiness of a man. [EVENT: Student Misconduct:Verbal Assault ] [EVENT: Student Misconduct:Physical Assault ] Learnt today a very surprising circumstance, about Barton Morris(P22431)' having a serious quarrel with a student by the name of Warwick(P32729)111. Barton having with his usual levity carried a joke on Warwick rather too far, was cursed by him and it was afterward said by Warwick that he had cursed Barton and he had taken no notice of it, the truth[27]
being that Barton had not heard him when he did curse him, but upon learning the unfavourable rumor Warwick had started about him, he requested an interview and being prepared with a stick, as was also his antagonist, he demanded of him to retract what he had said, and upon refusal, fell aboard of him with his stick, which was quickly broken, and also Warwick's, when they closed and Warwick drew a dirk and stabbed Barton twice in the back, tho'[41]
not seriously; to this point the matter has proceeded, and it is supposed that something farther will take place, but it is to be hope[d] that the friends on each side will interfere and prevent any serious consequences. April 12th Sunday 1835.Attended church to day, and after service went to see Miss Bet(P47197) about an agreement we had made to go down to Charlottesville; after dinner, according to promise, waited on Miss Bet, and accompanied her down, when tho' we were disappointed in hearing, Mr. Hamet(P44070)112 had a good sermon; after sitting with her until nearly suppertime evacuated from her presence.
April 13th Monday 1835.This day rose early, and was very much disappointed to find it raining, but after Breakfast, like a true April day, it cleared up; and I immediately went down to Charlottesville to see about preparing the things we had gotten in Town for our Ball; met Miss Mary(P47058) and Miss Gordan(P47191)shopping; in a short time rode up to College on a spare horse of Peter Mirror(P47638)113: returned to town so soon as my socks could be changed; met a crowd of fellows on the square,
[42]
[28]
and after seeing the Jefferson Guard114 parade, consisting of only 25 men, and taking a glass of soda, went round to Wards'(PL8541), where the Procession was to be formed with the military first, orator of the Day and president of the Society(CB0011) at the head of the line of Students and citizens; on arriving at church, found it already pretty full, but contrived to get a seat, and after the Declaration was read by Peter Carr(P34852), Robert Davis(P23020)115 followed with his Speech and spoke for more than an hour; the address was badly delivered, but most beautifully written. Directly after Dinner, commenced operations, preparing for the Ball; on returning to my room to dress, found both the Barber and Tailor had disappointed me; after waiting with impatience for sometime, was compelled to wear my old Cassimeer116 pants, and ript out with many an oath to the Damnation of all Tailors. reached the Managers room about seven, when the better part of the company had arrived; attended for sometime to sending in the refreshments, and then getting a little respite, went into the Ball room, and had the happiness of seeing Miss Mary Ella Chapman(P47602)117 whom I had engaged by proxy for the fourth sett;[43]
looks as beautiful and lovely as ever, and improved in her conversational powers. After merely asking some common questions about her health, and one or two friends, returned into the Managers room where I remained until nearly time for my sett with her, when I again appeared and had some more sociable and intimate chat with her, tho' she was so much allowed to, that it interrupted the course of my remarks very much, danced and waltzed with her several times, and spent the better part of the rest of my time in manager's room. The whole Ball passed off swimmingly, and it was universally admitted to be the most pleasant and well-conducted party given by the Students this year; Lewis'(P44651) supper was acknowledged to have[29]
been the finest, and the ladies who attended our Ball the Handsomest and altogether it was but one continuous stream of happiness. April 14th Tuesday 1835.Notwithstanding I had several drunken me[n] to put to bed last night, which necessarily detained me up untill late, for I did not go to bed till half past two, I rose sufficient time for Breakfast. After that meal went down to the Managers room which I found full
[44]
of Students, drinking the wine left from last night, and then getting rid of these fellows, and the wine also, we set to work and got the utensils of every description and prepared to send them down to Charlottesville. Next paid a visit to Miss Mary Ella(P47602), where I found Sheppard(P33411)118 and some one or two other men; soon got "tete a tete" with her, and began to recal old times and former scenes, when in popped Gretter(P24783) and Mills(P24284) to spoil my pleasure which had only lasted for about fifteen minutes; after trying to make myself agreeable to all the other good folk, for Gretter is such [a] talker that no one can edge in a word when he is near, and waltzing a few times round the room and meeting Miss Walker(P47248)119 here who came in whilst I was at Conway's(P44225), I cut out. Next had the trouble of sending the saucers down; then paid a visit to Miss Ward(P43909), at Mrs. Gray's(P43865), where I met Gretter again, not very cheerful conversation so adjourned, but not til near dinner hour. This evening the Faculty have had a meeting to try the fellows who wore rebellious coats and those who wore shorts120. have not yet heard the result. Hill(P24285) was among the rest, for getting[45]
intoxicated and wearing rebellious. Attended Cpt. Partridge's(P43952) Lecture, and regret that I have not been regular in my attendance on his Lectures and Drills. Barton(P22431) and Warwick(P32729) were summoned[30]
before the magistrate to day to be bound over to peace, but escapted with a promise to let the matter rest, and the cost of 5 shillings apiece. April Wednesday 15th 1835.Rose just time for Breakfast, and after that meal attended Bonny's(P43623) and Harrison's(P25515) Lecture, went to sleep at the former, and about twelve visited Miss Mary Ella(P47602) found ten or fifteen men in the room, who quickly cleared out, and just as I had expected that we might have some familiar chat together in came a whole raft121 of women; it really seemed as if Fortune was determined to deny me that pleasure, however after begging Miss Tutt(P47246), and Miss Bonnycastle for a while, they left with their whole troop and I had a little conversation, but Garland122 came in and interrupted me, so that I was again disappointed; after Dinner missed both Gess(P25515) and Dr. Blaetterman's(P45632) Lecture, who were engaged in the Faculty meeting, so that I lost nothing of my standing by going again to Conway's(P44225),
[46]
to see if Miss Ward(P43909), whom I had met there on my former visit, was ready to comply with her engagement of taking a walk but the weather has so unpleasantly cold that she declined it, and I shortened my visit for fear of suspicions. After supper went down to Gilmor's(PL9224) in Charlottesville, to see Miss Walker(P47248), and Miss Lucy Minor(P44877), who is however engaged to Charles Minor(P44876); Skinker(P41455) accompanied me, and we there found Miss Carter(P47058), Gordon(P47191), and Lindsay(P47818); and James Gordon(P34060)123; spent a most delightful evening, all seemed so cheerful and gay that I should have long remembered that evening as among the most pleasant, had I not encountered such a disagreeable return to college, it having, to the astonishment of the oldest persons, snowed quite hard, and the walk was rendered very unpleasant.[31]
April 16th Thursday 1835.Altho' we both rose sometime before breakfast yet the old Doctor(P43949)124 says he came immediately after sunrise, and we were not up. After
[47]
Breakfast attended Blaet(P45632)'s French Lecture, and next went down to Keller's(PL8528) to get some cakes to send up to Mrs. Brockenbrough(P44061): soon afterward visited Miss Chapman(P47602), and had some agreeable and pleasant conversation but Garland again interrupted me, however stayed with him there 'till one and after going down to the Post Office, returned to Dinner. Weather gloomy and cloudy; in the evening, next attended Partridge's(P43952) Drill, and after supper his Lecture. A committee of three, Trigg(P43554), Blow(P42624)125, and Burfoot(P21804), appointed to draft a contribution for the Company, which is to be organized this evening (17th). Went down to Charlottesville in the afternoon to get muskets for drilling, and procured about 28. The weather unusually cold for this season of the year, tho the whole of the snow has disappeared. April 17th Friday 1835.Rose not very early this morning; after Harrison's(P25515)
Lecture, attended Partridge's(P43952) Drill, and
then lounging about until eleven, it being good Friday, went down to
Charlottesville and saw Miss Mary Ella(P47602) there at church, walked to Mr. Southall's(P44082) with Miss
[48]
[32]
April Saturday 18th 1835.Rose not very soon, as I sat up late last night; after attending Blaet's(P45632) Lecture, went through the Drill, then begun to rite off my Diary, but was interrupted by Burwell(P33180) who wished to walk down to the Bookstore. Next wrote a letter to George(P47238) to announce the arrival of Miss M. E. C.(P47602) here. Then went down with Archy Robertson(P23061)126 to get an Ice-cream, disappointed in getting one, and had to put up with cake and preserves; Keller's(PL8528) a poor apology for a confectionary, especially since the Drinkables have been abolished from his house by the Visitors127; on returning got a letter from Mont128, short, and from any one else would have been uninteresting. Visited Conway's(P44225), but found such a crowd of strange folks there, that I was compelled to evacuate, without any conversation
[49]
with M. E. C. After Dinner, not feeling very well, took a nap. On waking found Partridge(P43952) Drilling, and joined in; at five attended his Lecture, and soon after supper, got ready for writing out my unfinished Diary, but in a short time a supper coming to my room bought it and called in Stanard(P30132) and Cook(P40184), who with Hobson(P22593) and Shands(P21960) 129 sett to and demolished the contents of the basket, Cook remained some time and we talked on subjects congenial to us both: horses and sporting, our schoolboy days, and our old companions, many of whom, were known to us both mutually tho' we are from such separate parts of the State, until a late hour. April Sunday 19th 1835.Rose just early enough to prepare for Breakfast, employed myself a good part of the morning in arranging my letters, and manuscripts, and in trimming a cane which I had cut from off
[33]
Monticello. Wrote a Letter to Montagu(P47000) immediately after Dinner; and then attended church, there being none in the morning up here, as Cobbs(P47598) preached down at Charlottesville; heard a very fine discourse[50]
from him, as indeed he always delivers; and if there is truly a pious man, it seems as if he is certainly one; and his classic mind, and solid talents deserve more than >the pittance afforded by the contributions of the students and Professors130, which on the whole does not exceed 500 Dollars; he is now chosen as the agent for collecting funds, to build a church at the University, to be raised by the liberality of the good people of this State, tho' I much doubt the ability to get the sum required, 20,000 dollars131. Spent the rest of the evening after church in reading Milton's Sampson Agonistes, and after supper went down to Conway's with Crump(P32248), and had an agreeable talk with Miss M. E. C.(P47602) about George(P47238)132, and his unfortunate attachment, and some other of her youthful beaux; on leaving there went on to Goode's(P40790), where we had a short conversation on the beauty and intellect of the ladies who have graced the University this Session, and even short as that was it gave rise to many thoughts about what that man will become; and it does appear more and more every day that he is to make a figure in the world; he has a powerful mind, well educated,[51]
and the most penetrating sagacity, but it does seem to me that he is a man of great ambition, one whose manners are so insinuating, one who leads a person so readily into a belief that he has made him his confidant, and when I see everything so oily and complaisant above, I begin to suspect some latent object beneath; there is no sentimentality about him, he seem to view the world as it is, and setts aside superfluous circumstances with almost intuitive tact. The mind of such a man may be aptly compared to fire, which while[34]
it warms its own heart may serve to light the fuel of its neighbors without any diminution of its own. Monday April 20th 1835.Rose this morning at six; after Breakfast, attended Harrison's(P25515) and Bonny's(P43623) Lectures, and as usual dozed thro' a good part of the latter.
Then went down to Keller's(PL8528) with Barton Morris(P22431), Burwell(P33180), and Barton's cousin, a Mr. Taylor to get a Cream133, and on returning, after amusing myself with the Mirror(CB0868), received a letter from James(P47627)134, discoursing of the Benefits arising from the West Point Academy(CB0187),
[52]
which question was debated in our Society(CB0011) some nights ago. After Dinner had a conversation with Archy Robertson(P23061) and a whole squad of men, in my room, about the state of Society in this vicinity, and some ladies in particular; at three attended another Lecture of Harrison's and at half past four, Partridge's(P43952) Drill; after Supper, his Lecture, and remained, when he had finished, to hear the Constitution of our Company read, and proceed to the Election of Officers; the Constitution after some slight amendment was carried, but the Election was put off until tomorrow evening. The day has been unusually windy, and the sky studded with broken clouds throughout the whole day, sometimes small showers, tho' now at half past nine PM, the stars are out and the whole horizon clear, yet the wind rages with great fury, which however will prevent more rain. Intended going down to visit the Miss Gordons(P47186) (P47191)(P47192) and Miss Mary but was disappointed in getting any one to accompany me, and the Meeting for passing the Constitution totally [K]nocked all remembrances of my intentions out of my head.[35]
Tuesday April 21st 1835[53]
Rose early and took a walk with Hobson(P22593); every thing has the appearance of a rapid approach to Spring, tho' the winter has been so unusually long, and the changes, even in this month so sudden and unexpected that it would not be a matter of much surprise should we have snow in August. Attended Blaet's(P45632) Lecture, and next Partridge's(P43952) Drill, after that, contrary to my idle habits of the last month, went to studying, and wrote an Exercise; at twelve according to custom went down [to] Keller's(PL8528), and from thence to Price's(PL8522) to see about altering a pair of pants: returned to college, tho' much pressed by Burfoot(P21804) to accompany him down to Charlottesville to see the militia officers135 drilled by Partridge. After Dinner begun preparing a Lecture in Horace's Ars Poetica, and attended Partridge's evening Drill at half past four, next went down and got my pants from the Tailor, and after supper, dressed myself to visit Miss Mary Carter(P47058) and the Miss Gordons, but found that I had spent so much time at Partridge's Introductory Lecture on the History that I should make rather too fashionable a visit, and gave it out ab. Attempted to continue my preparation in the De Ars
[54]
Poetica [sic], but finally came near falling asleep, and was as King would say, "rei necessitate"136 compelled to adjourn, and give weary eyelids rest; this drowsiness, I rather suspect brought on by drinking milk. Wednesday April 22nd 1835.Rose early and was very much disappointed, after Breakfast, to find Harrison(P25515) did not Lecture, as we will be hard pushed, when we come to prepare for our Examination in the Language, and every
[36]
Lecture now is valuable. After Partridge's(P43952) Drill and Bonny's(P43623) Lecture, went down to Conway's, and had the imprudence to show a couple of Montagu's(P47000) letters to Miss Chapman(P47602), but as there were no secrets, and could exhibit nothing but my friend's sincerity, they could be of no injury to him. On leaving there, met Kelly(P30825), who has just returned from his month's exile, and has been rusticating at Cocke's(PL8586)137, about ten or fifteen miles from here. Picked up the last no. of S. L. Messenger, and saw a very fanciful piece by Edgar Poe138. After exercising some in my old amusement of jumping attended Partridge's lecture, and then went to preparing for Blaet's(P45632) French.[55]
Had a most serious notion of visiting Miss Mary to day, but like many other suffered the time to pass by without performing it. Thursday April 23rd 1835.Dr. Smith(P43949) caught me in bed this morning, tho' I thought it early rising, on getting up before six. At ten went down to Charlottesville to see if the Bridal party139 were on their return, but could learn nothing of them. Met Charles Minor(P44876), who told me there was to be a party at Dr. Carter's(P47574) this evening, which intelligence stopped a visit I had intended making to Miss Mary(P47058), for having received an invitation from Mrs. Southall(P47519), as I beleive,Ellis? ? only by walking home from church with Miss M, that is to say, to her house, I was somewhat afraid of being thought rather a Paul Pry140, who might, unintentionally, drop in whenever a party was brewing merely to remind them that I visited, and so, tho' I did think there could be any foundation from the report, steered clear and after waiting some hour or so for the arrival of the ladies, who were not to come packed up to college. Here after preparing a
[56]
Lecture and attending Partridge's(P43952) Drill and after Supper, Lecture,[37]
brushed up and went, "solus" to Conway's(P44225), knowing there would be a sufficiency of the male sex without my bringing any supernumerary; found the everlasting Mr. Mills(P24284) there, and my old chum Kelly(P30825), and in a short time our circle was honored with the presence of Mr. Robert Crump(P32248), and later in the evening by A. Cary(P41338), and finally by Munford(P39037) and Wigfall(P32016); Mills, Kelly and Crump decamped on the arrival of Cary, but I was determined to sett them out, and breezed Miss Bet(P47197) for a full two hours, in hopes that Cary would come to a halt to his perpetual motion conversation, but no, Mumford and Wigfall departed, with scarce a word of chat with her, and lastly at some time after ten, we both cut out; but not until I had promised to bring a hack to carry than to Monticello, and a present to Miss Mary Ella(P47602) for old acquaintance sake;, next went with Cary over to Mrs. Brockenbrough's(P44061), where I sat with him and Ruffin141 until near twelve, when I returned to my ten foot box and now am about to consign myself[57]
to the arm of, what some people, call Morpheus, tho' there is a devil of a rumbling in Stanard(P30132)'s room, next door, which seems likely to prevent it for a short time. Friday April 24th 1835Rose before six this morning, and after missing Harrison's(P25515) Lecture, who is sick, and attending Bonny's(P43623), went down to McKennie's(PL8519) and procured a little book, "the Language of Flowers," as a present for M. E. C(P47602): on learning that they had gone from Conway's(P44225) to dine in Charlottesville, moved down in that direction to meet Anne Triplett(P47603),142 McFarland(P47604) and his bridal party, returning to Richmond, eat Dinner at Vowle's(PL8552), a notable fact with one who has been confined to college Diet for the last six months, and on starting back for college, the party having left, was taken into Dr. Pat's(P43634)143 carriage
[38]
by the old Madame(P43865), who had come down to see Mrs. McFarland(P47605)144, who is a sister of her son-in-law. Reached the University just before Dinner hour, and made arrangements with Crain(P35514)145 to procure a hack, for the purpose of carrying the ladies from Conway's to Monticello; but like most of my undertakings, was detained, by an invitation to a party at Dr. Carter's(P47574), from putting my intention of going to[58]
Charlottesville to procure a Hack and horses, and so what might have been done to-day has been put off 'till the last moment, and I shall probably Miss a Lecture by it, which is to be much dreaded after the blowing up Father(P44134) gave in his last letter, but it seems that whenever, he sends money he is privileged to tack on a long yarn of advice, I mean, that he probably thinks advice will be received with a better grace just at that ime, and acts accordingly. At eight arrived at Dr. Carter's and found we were among the first men on the ground, but made a bold push "inter faeminas" or in medias res,"146 as best pleases, until the rest of the company came in, and the whole became animated and noisy, tho' joke was past, the invented excuse was alleged, the wine passed round and every thing went off swimmingly; groups were formed about each of the ladies, and on my being introduced to Miss Martha Winn(P47606)147 and getting a seat by her, "tete a tete" was most pleasantly entertained by her continued flow of conversation, and was most desperately tempted by the beauty of her lips, which looked like, as I have writ in some little song,[59]
"the inside of a parted cherry," and their richness was beautifully contrasted by the fairness of her complexion; she is by no means a perfect Beauty, there is more of cheerful gaiety and sweetness expressed on her countenance than Intelligence, and her foot and ankle are terrible: Miss Garret148 is another of this night's introductions, she is coarse in countenance, still coarser in manners,[39]
and altogether, tho' the familiarity with which she treats students renders her popular among a certain class of men, yet I should think that but little refinement either in conduct or conversation could be gained from her. Saturday April 25th 1835Rose after six contrary to my usual hour, after Blaet's(P45632) Lecture met Crain(P35514) who had been down to procure a hack, between us, for carrying the ladies to Monticello, but could only get Stone(P39236)'s open barouche149, and but one horse was to be found, comatible150. These were engaged by him, still one of the ladies would have been forced to remain behind had I not borrowed Mr. Cobb's(P47598) horse, and by accomodating Miss Bet(P47197) with him, got a place myself in the vehicle, and after various delays started, an hour later than we had intended,
[60]
a beautiful sight we, no doubt, presented as riding thro' Charlottesville in the old rattle-box we had hired, which one might verily imagine had seen the days of our earliest forefathers, but old age should be respected, and we will confine our description to the party itself, which was composed of the two Miss Conways, Miss Gregory(P47578), and Miss Mary Ella(P47602). We took up Miss Ward(P43909) in Charlottesville, that is to say she joined us, tho' on horseback; Miss Sarah Conway, and Miss Mary Ella in the hack with Crain and myself, Garland escorting Miss Gregory, Gretter(P24783) Miss Bet, at first, Miss Ward after her joining, and Lewis Ludlam(P31905) and Bob Patterson(P39573)151, supernumeraries, and with umbrellas hoisted, hearty laughter, and three bundles of cake, which my foresight had provided, on the supposition that ladies were not chamelions, we went ahead, cracking jokes and full of fun, frolicking and bright anticipations: After a brisk ride of more than 3 miles, the distance to Monticello, under a sun,[40]
which but for the strong breeze a stirring, would have been very disagreeable, and having Mary Ella's fears considerably excited[61]
lest we should tumble down the side of the mountain, after listening to the sentimentality of Sal(P47597)152, and reflecting on my situation, so different, from what I could have conceived a month before, that I should be going on a pleasure party with she who had played such wild havoc with George's(P47238) heart; and the simple boy who once was content to feel himself supremely happy in a mere walk with a pretty girl, and he who now on the way to the grave of Jefferson, has turned his ambition to be like him, but whilst I reflect on the happiness of my [lifet?] a year since, the thought often crosses my mind, whether it would not be better to be content with an humbler walk of life where fewer troubles would break in upon my quiet, but then, it is said, and I have so far found it so, all pleasures have their pain, and if life cannot be enjoyed without pain, why not press on to some high object which may give the greatest pleasure, even tho' it be attended with equal pain, and even tho' the object may at last prove unequal to your expectations, still 'tis a sweet dream whilst you are ignorant of it; but lo! I have left the ladies,[62]
very impolitely, to find their own way up the mount, but now we will resume our description, just at the tomb of the departed patriot, and this is composed, by his own directions, of a simple Granite column; by his side rests his wife, the whole just on the road leading up to the mansion, in a very dilapidated estate153, the wall down, gate broken, and the flowers, or rather shrubs, once bending over the resting places of those who have died, now withered and thinned: on continuing our walk, we arrived at the Garden which is very neat, in comparison with the rest of the surrounding objects, it is, as I am told by one of the ladies, who saw it in its palmy[41]
days, soon after Jefferson's death, not completed, but was then very beautiful. Proceeding to the House we were very much surprised to find that the charms of Monticello had attracted a whole troop of school girls from Charlottesville, some of them very pretty, among others Miss Lucy Carter(P47185), and Miss Lane(P47636). After hastening thro' the interior of the building from top to bottom, we walked out on what might once have been called a terrace, when Miss Bet and myself separated from the party and went to get some pieces of a[63]
cypress tree which grows in front of the building, and here we were struck with the barbarous taste, if not vandalian spirit, of its present proprietor in ploughing up the handsome lawn, for nearly covered with green turf, but now sown in wheat, and the trees once tall and majestic, reared by the care of a Jefferson, now shorn of their branches, or entirely felled by the unsparing hand of a Jew.154 On returning to the party sent for our cakes, and drank a bottle of wine, which Garland had brought with him, after our lunch and enjoying the prospect sett out on our way back, but however not be- fore unruly Boreas had made free with some of the ladies dresses, and given us an occasional peep, higher up towards that place of concentration of all beauties, than is usually allotted to the vulgar gaze; reached College half an hour before Dinner. After Dinner took a nap, until Partridge's(P43952) Drill, and on going thro' with that took a small walk with Burwell(P33180), After supper attended Society(CB0011), heard an Essay, of a very flaming character, from the right honorable Mr. Pierce Lewis(P29769) of Georgia155.[42]
[64]
Sunday April 26th 1835.Last night had a good deal of rain, and this morning still continues, so that we may fear the long spell of the rainy season; rained throughout the day, with occasional intervals. Carried the little present, I had before spoken of, to Miss Mary Ella(P47602); and walked with Bet(P47197) to Church; where we had a very fine discourse about the Prodigal son, that is in my opinion, so far as I heard, the middle part being unintelligible, on account of a short nap, which came upon me about that time. After Dinner attended a meeting of the managers of the Ball, concerning the important consideration of collecting the subscriptions, that being usually the most difficult business of the whole, found ourselves short of the necessary funds and railed the price: this settled went over to Brown(P36952)'s156 room, and tho' I went over to learn where tomorrow's Lecture commenced, yet getting interested in the recital of some of his travels to the North, stayed the whole evening. Also I was this morning after Breakfast, with those of Jim Gray(P24041), who has visited, Great Britain and France and gave me descriptions of London Paris, Dublin, and many other places where he had been; Paris(PL8797) seemed to be
[65]
the favorite with him, tho' London(PL4698) was the most majestic in its Buildings, Bridges, and especially in the magnificence of St. Paul's; yet Paris, he said, presented more scenes, and amusements to interest the stranger, and the splendour of the Louvre and the other Palaces of the French kings was far superior to that of St. James; but the castles, and country residences of England(PL6183) were as far superior to those of the French, as were the English nobility to those of France, for there nobility is but a title: the travelling he described as wretched, the harness being often composed of ropes, and the Diligences, which, from his account,[43]
most wofully bely their name, will wait two, three or even four hours to gratify the whim of a Traveller, whilst they have the mail along. Spent the evening, after Supper, in chatting over the Legends of our native state, with Pleasants(P26988), whose mind is richly stored with them, and I am every day more surprised at his prodigious memory, which is rendered more wonderful to me, from contrast with my very bad one.[66]
Monday April 27th 1835.On rising early this morning found it still raining and no prospect of its clearing up; Harrison(P25515) being sick, missed his Lecture; attended the Drill and afterward old Bonny(P43623); next went down to Wertenbakers'(PL8518)157 and McKennie's(PL8519) to examine their new supply of Books; on returning attempted to read Tactitus, but found that my mind was so often abstracted from my study that I could not conquer more than two & three chapters from twelve to 2; This is produced of my lazy habits, contracted by neglect of study and visiting the Fair sex too much. At Dinner received an invitation to Bonnycastles for Wednesday the 6th of May, the invites were sent out so early, I suppose, in order to give the fellows time to prepare, as the old dog knows, many of us are not too superabundantly supplied with regard to our wardrobes. Spent the afternoon in the same ineffectual attempt on Tacitus, that is, so much of it as was not employed by the entertaining men, who came in to my room, attracted by the fire, as there is but little wood in College, but Aby(P26988)158 and myself having two cellars have made out to preserve a small quantity, tho' this is rapidly vanishing. After Supper attended the Moot Court(CB0987),
[67]
where I heard a fine Discussion between Stanard(P30132) and Garland on the side of the Plaintiff and Blow(P42624) and Thorton(P41232)159 for the Defendant, decided in favour[44]
of the Plaintiff, tho Stanard acknowledges they for the Defendant had the best side. Continued raining throughout the day, and now, 12 P. M. still shows no signs of clearing off; the Dormitories begin to leak, and Pleasants has had to move his bed, and I am about to move my body into mine so we'll say Good Night! Tuesday April 28th 1835.Rose pretty soon this morning, and was rejoiced to find it had cleared up; after Breakfast attended Blaet(P45632)'s Lecture and the Drill; next wrote to Father, and after going with that to the P. office, and farther on to Keller's(PL8528), returned and read Tacitus with Burwell(P33180) until one o clock, when he went to the office and I then spent the time 'till Dinner in reading newspapers and entertaining some men in my room. After Dinner prepared to sett about getting Horace for Tomorrow's Lecture, but Bankhead(P31517)160 came in and [k]nocked the whole design out of my head by asking me to go to Charlottesville with him, on a visit to the Miss Winns, and Miss Mary(P47058), on reaching town paid
[68]
our visit to the former, and after eating supper at Wards, went round to Dr. Carter's, found only Miss Lucy(P47185) and Miss Betsy Franklin(P47228)161 at home, and leaving Tom(P31517) to entertain the youthful maid of 40, commenced a confab with Lucy. Tom presented her with the same little Book I gave Pass Mary Ella(P47602), Language of Flowers, and then the conversation became general when we were interrupted by the ringing or rather clinking, of a Bell. I should judge, from the sound, it was an inverted pot, and the shouts of the rabble who were celebrating the defeat of the Whigs in Nelson, Joe Cabell being turned out162, and on going out unto the porch we found they had raised a bonfire on the occasion, and the scene was very romantic, indeed, as the ragged urchins passed with quick steps about the fire,[45]
and the glare now lighted some dark building, now laid in full relief the bare boughs of a majestic tree or left those objects in profound darkness, now gleaming along the ground until with a higher blaze it illumes the windows of some neighbouring house still darker, from the contrast of light and shade, and ever and anon the[69]
whole appearance made still more singular by the wild shout of those who had raised the fire: before we left Miss Mary(P47058) came in from Southall's with Mrs. Carter(P47815) and the Doctor(P47574), but we remained but a few moments after her arrival, as we had promised Hamer(P35685)163 to be at ward's by ten, he having gone to Garret's(PL8583), took a drink and trudged up to College, and now after spending a day to but little advantage, but which I hope has not entirely been thrown away, I retire to rest better contented than usual, so easily can our consciences be killed, as mine has been by the little Study I have done, tho' 'tis more by contrast with what I have done heretofore rather than what I ought to do. Wednesday April 29th 1835.On rising this morning found the sky clear and unclouded, which has continued thro' the day. After Breakfast attended Harrison's(P25515) Lecture, the Drill, and old Bonny(P43623) 'till eleven. Went down to Conway's to see Miss Gregory(P47578) off, as she starts for Fredericksburgh under the escort of Garland. She went down to Charlottesville at a few minutes past twelve, accompanied by Miss Mary Ella(P47602) and both the Miss Conway's. Next went to Keller's(PL8528) with Barton(P22431), and spent my time
[70]
until Dinner in reading the Whig(CB0572)164; employed myself in arranging my Manuscripts and papers 'till half past four when I went to Drill, and about five Kelly(P30825) reminded me of Spanish Lecture which I should have attended at time the Drill commences, got to the Lecture room[46]
just soon enough to read my piece and save my mark. After Supper went with Skelton(P41122)165 to galant Miss Mary Ella to Prayer Meeting, according to promises made last Sunday, and after nodding during a good part of Mr. Cobb's(P47598) discourse returned with the ladies, and then cut out, and now after preparing a French Lecture I shall have passed this day, with no great profit to myself and still less to others, and if this course is kept up I stand but a bad chance for passing the four Examinations to be prepared for by the end of June. Thursday April 30th 1835.Rose much sooner this morning than common, and went with Pleasants(P26988) to the Observatory(PL8635) before Breakfast; tho' the view from thence was not so fine as usual, on account of the haziness of the
[71]
atmosphere, yet the walk there is becoming more and more beautiful as the Spring opens, and the young leaves are now shooting on the forest's trees, as the flowers are springing up, and the white blossoms of the dogwood make a beautiful contrast with the dark green foliage of the underwood, whilst the wild honeysuckle, and the daisy, with the humble wild violet, adorn the side of the path, and "all nature as the poets say, seems to smile." After Blaet's(P45632) Lecture and the Drill prepared Harrison's(P25515) Lecture for tomorrow, and at twelve, where I was most agreeably surprised to see Uncle Powhatan(P46205)166 drive up in the Lynchburg stage; went down to Charlottesville with him, and after smoking a couple of segars, taking a pretty strong pull at the [peach?], and still stronger at the Dinner, shook hands with uncle, pocketed eel skin167, given to procure segars, and which is quite acceptable at this present moment, wished him all manner of good wishes, and trudged back to my ten-foot-box; read the Mirror, took a long nap, and rose time enough for supper;[47]
next went to walk with Crain(P35514), and after lingering in Stanard's(P30132) room, with him and P. Lewis(P29769)168, returned to my room, and in a short time had[72]
the pleasure of James Gray's(P24041) company, when we commenced on things near, but soon I lead him on to speak of his travels, and was very much interested in the descriptions he gave of the various wonders that were seen in his perigrinations, continued promenading the arcade for nearly two hours when at twelve consigned myself to "natures' sweet restorer." Friday May 1st 1835.Rose not quite so early as common, but was much pleased to find that May was ushered in by a clear sky and most beautiful day. Did not take our intended walk to the Observatory(PL8635) because Pleasants(P26988) took a doze of Salts169 last night. Spent until eleven at Harrison's(P25515), the Drill, and Bonny(P43623). After his Lecture went with Burwell down to Charlottesville, and carried my Ricard's Plutarch170 to the Book binder, and whilst going down met Montgomery(P43493), Dr. Watson's(P47609) nephew171, and on returning read the newspapers 'till Dinner. Took a walk to the Observatory(PL8635) with Pleasants and Shands, admired the beauty of the woods, just putting on their Spring Dress, the dark pine and lighter chestnut being relieved by the beautiful contrast of the white blossoms
[73]
of the dogwood, and the air scented by the wild honeysuckle and the daisy: on my way back met with a pretty serious accident: in the buoyancy of my Imagination I commenced the descent of the mountain at a rather quicker pace, than my usual staid gait and when near the foot, whilst striding along at a sweeping rate, which the impetus of the descent increased every moment I struck my most unfortunate toe against a bough laying across the road, and tore the nail completely from the flesh; for several minutes the pain was[48]
excessive, but as it would not do to make wry faces about stumping one's toe, a thing which I have been accustomed to for many years, so I made the best of my way to College, with the assistance of Aby(P26988), and as my own restless disposition would never allow me to remain in my room to study regularly, so kind Fortune seems to have taken the responsibility on herself and thus I am completely housed unless when Lecture or meals compells me to move.[74]
Saturday May 2nd 1835.Rose tolerable early, after having experienced a night replete with many fantastic dreams, produced no doubt by my unquiet slumbers. The weather remarkably fine, as it has been for several days past. Found my wounded member rather stiff from the clotted blood, which had collected during the night. Made out to get to Blaet's(P45632) Lecture; and then commenced reading Tacitus with Burwell' which we kept up 'till ten; and I then amused myself with Major Downing's Letters172, notwithstanding that I know little time ought to be wasted, as two of the Examinations in Latin come on about the latter end of this month. Spent the evening in the same unprofitable manner, and after Supper attended the Jefferson Society(CB0147), but got in too late to hear the better part of the debate. Not much business carried on, and but little interest excited by the discussions now; on returning to my room had several men visit until ten, and on their leaving commenced preparations for bed. This day bought a squirril, which I am afraid will suffer through my neglect.
[49]
[75]
Sunday May 3rd 1835.Rose pretty soon this morning, and found it bright and unclouded. After Breakfast, having wasted sometime with fixing my little favorite, the squirrel which I bought yesterday, in a suitable place, went to work, under Barton's(P22431) tuition, to finding the square root, and preparing myself for Bonny's(P43623) Lecture tomorrow. At eleven went to Church, heard a fine discourse by Mr. Cobbs(P47598), as usual, and saw some handsome girls, my confounded toe having prevented me from going down to Charlottesville to hear Hammet preach, where I should have had the pleasure of seeing Miss Mary(P47058). Read till dinner, slept till supper, and after my room was cleared of fellows, about ten sett down and wrote an Exercise for old Gess(P25515), scribbled off this diary and tumbled to bed.
Monday May 4th 1835.Altho' I imagined that my hour for rising was quite early, yet did the old Janitor(P43949)173 catch me in bed this morning. From Breakfast till eleven employed with Lectures; then went down to the Post Office, where I got a letter from Thomas(P43568), as well as learnt the good news that my summer wardrobe, or rather the material for fixing
[76]
it up, had arrived; by Keller(P44075); went on down to Price's(PL8522) to have a pair of pants made for Bonny's(P43623) party, tho' I am much afraid I shall be deprived of the pleasure of seeing the ladies there, as my foot is still stiff, and my imprudence in walking on it so much today has not tended to improve the prospect of its recovery by that time; spent 'till one in reading Tacitus with Burwell; and read some in Gil blas174 till Dinner; after that meal looked on whilst Partridge(P43952) was carrying his squad thro' some evolutions in marching,[50]
and regretted much that my unfortunate toe should be the cause of detaining me from joining in with them; returned to Gil blas, and after preparing Blaet's(P45632) Lecture in that went to supper, and then commenced reading Livy, but was interrupted by the entrance of Truehart(P27886), who brought the unpleasant tidings of Richard Harrison's(P37425)175 having broken his arm, he adds that he bore the setting of it, with considerable fortitude; not long after True left was again inter- rupted by Ogden(P25432) and several other fellows, but had quite an interesting conversation, as indeed must ever be the case when he joins[77]
in; on leaving invited Aby(P26988) and myself to a frolic on next Saturday night; and after writing a French Exercise, and finishing a chapter in Livy, wrote my Diary and prepared for bed. Tuesday May 5th 1835.Rose at an early hour this morning, and commenced reading Livy. After Breakfast attended Blaet's(P45632) Lecture, and next went over to Burwell's room, where we read Tacitus until twelve, slept till Dinner, attempted to prepare the Spanish Lecture; as well as old Gess'(P25515) but failed in each, and so trifled the whole evening away: after supper went to Partridge's(P43952) Lecture on the campaign of the Revolution; on returning to my room, sat some time with a parcel of men, for an hour or two and then prepared for bed; [EVENT: Student Status:Dismissal ] Learnt today that Crump(P32248) and Clarke(P30030) had been dismissed, and that a notice had been stuck up at the Rotunda, "Telling Those who had received one Lazy Ticket to beware of Two, as that would send Them off."176
[51]
[78]
Wednesday May 6th 1835This morning did not rise on account of my foot being worse, and fearing that it might be inflamed by walking on it, determined to lay in bed to day; found the confinement made me very restless, but continued to kill time by reading Scott's Poems, and Tacitus, by which means I got on 'till Dinner. After that, took a nap and resumed Scott for the rest of the evening. Old Bonny's(P43623) Party comes on to night and much to my disappointment I am still detained by my most unfortunate toe, which is borne with a worse grace, because Miss Mary Ella(P47602) goes home in a day or two, and I had hoped to have seen her before her departing, which, now, may probably not be the case, and this desire was increased by my desire to find out how matters stood between her and Mills(P24284), who is now paying her great attentions, and this is more surprising to me, since he must be aware, that she has heard of the report about his seducing Mary Page(P47611)177, and that he should, under those circumstances, have the impudence
[79]
to wait on her, who lived in the same house, and was so intimate with Mary Page, is rather astonishing; from report, she seems to be well pleased at his attentions, tho I would fain hope it is rather the vanity of a newly-turned out girl, flattered by the thoughts of having a beau, than any real inclination for the man; but I have seen enough in that girl to draw less charitable conclusions than that; for George's(P47238) sake I once took an interest in her; she is now as one who has been; and with the fiddle at Old Bonny's ringing in my ear, which no doubt makes music for many a bright eye and laughing countenance, that but ill conceals, the wounded vanity and discontent eying underneath. I sit in mine, humble Dormitory, "forgetting, by the world forgot," with no wish[52]
for the present save that my toe may recover speedily, and thus would I ever my mind should be, "in a contented mood."Missed four lectures today, which is however no great loss, unless it may be Bonny's, which at this particular time are very important.
[80]
Thursday May 7th 1835.Still laying in bed on account of my foot, and spent my time today pretty much as yesterday, with Scott and Tacitus, alternately, tho' this is rather unstudentlike, to be reading light fictions at the same time with, the more solid history of the Roman. Rose about half past three and was blessed with a sight of the fair Maid of Orange178, and the less sentimental Bet Conway(P47197). Had a most glowing description of Bonny's(P43623) Party, at which, for the amusement of the gaping crowd, Old Blaet(P45632) figured in a waltz with Miss Tutt(P47246), and to use one of Burwell's(P33180) similies, he looked, no doubt, like a hogshead of Tobacco, hard to start, but when once in motion, hard to stop, and moving on by his own weight, it being recollected that the honorable Professor, would, if our eyes may be the judges, weigh somewhere near 3 or 4 hundred pounds179, and Miss Virginia a light and airy form, she must have appeared like a fishing pole by the side of the Rotunda.
Attended Partridge's(P43952) lecture on Tactics, before supper, and again on Internal Improvement after; he handled the subject straightforwardly,
[81]
like a soldier, and declared himself opposed to the General Government's having anything to do with it; this may proceed from his being a Yankee, but I am, so far, rather inclined to agree with; however when I have examined the subject it will be time enough to form an opinion. My favorite, the squirrel, has[53]
been brought to me in most woeful plight, his once long bushy tail shorn of half its honors, and his spirit very much cowed. Friday May 8th 1835.Rose this morning with my foot much better; went to Breakfast; as well as Harrison's(P25515) and Bonny's(P43623) Lecture; at nine, between the two Lectures limped down to Conway's to take a Fare well of Miss Mary Ella(P47602), but was wofully disappointed on finding she had already started: Read some in Tacitus, and trifled the rest of my time away, 'till Dinner, [EVENT: Course Reference:History ] the same through the evening 'till Partridge's(P43952) Lecture on National Defence, and last of his course; this appeared to be the best and most instructive one he has given, and I learnt many new views, and heard new ideas about the subject, with which I was but
[82]
little acquainted. He goes on to speak of standing armies, the danger from them to the liberties of a free country, instances, Rome, Sparta, Persia, etc., and then speaks of our own mode of defence, the militia, gives it as his opinion that they have been much underrated, and proves it by the battles of the Revolution, says Gate's army, with which Burgoyne was captured, was nearly all militia; Fort Moultrie, defended Charleston from Sir Peter Parker, manned by raw countrymen; Stonington180, saved by a little reboubt, thrown up by about 20 or 30 militiamen; New Orleans, but one company of Regulars in the whole of Jackson's forces, and where they were stationed was the only place that the British reached the Ramparts; and several other Battles; then refers to the system of training the Militia in our time, and points out the great defect in it to be, that the Government, whether National or State, have both fallen into the same error, viz: of electing undiciplined Officers,181 and then commanding them to train the Militia when called out at Muster,[54]
like putting a son under a Tailor to learn the Shoemaker's trade;[83]
he then advises as a substitute, that the General Government, should appoint and pay a competent salary to a truly military Tactician for each State, who is to Drill the officers of each Brigade when called to the Rendevous, and then they will be able to perform the duty required of them by the Legislature, or Congress; 6 times a year he thinks would be sufficient to ensure the Dicipline necessary, and moreover, the forms of returns of Commissary Rations should be shown to the officers, and a short course of Lectures, say a day or two, be delivered on the parts of Fortification, Defence and Attack, with some of the simpler forms of Military Science explained. The officers will thus be better informed in the duties incumbent on them, should a war call for their services, and he asserts that with well Drilled officers he can take a Regiment of raw recruits and in three weeks train sufficiently to go into the field and meet any troops in the world. He next spoke of the system of standing fortifications182, now going on our seaboard, and comments the wall of money which has been[84]
expended in these works. Fortifications, he says, like all other of man's works decay and that too in a much shorter time than is generally believed, and the repair of the works now constructed will in a short time be so expensive that the system, he thinks will necessarily go down; he does not disapprove of having no Fortifications, but of the extended plan they are going on now, let, says the Captain, them be Forts erected to protect our chief cities, and but one near each and that one a good solid, substantial one, around which, in time of emergency, temporary works may be thrown up that will, in his opinion, serve a better purpose than the regular fortifications, for when an enemy hears of a regular, military fort, they will either avoid it, or else, attack it in a[55]
regular military way; and besiegers have the advantage in such attacks; not far, in the interior, let arsenals be erected, which be kept, and built, at less expense, preserve longer, and will not require as large a guard, if any, as a regular Fort; these being[85]
erected at no great distance from the main Fort, will serve as a depository for arms, ammunition, &c, and on the approach of an enemy, why your temporary works may be erected, and in a short time mounted with guns from the arsenals; he gives several examples of the rapid ruin of fort[s], gun carriages, and platforms, in some of our works, especially one at New York; he attributes this bad policy in our Government, to a main deficiency in our higher Colleges, in which, he thinks, military Tactics, and Science, should be considered one of the leading branches of the education of our Youth; they, by their superior knowledge in civil affairs being looked up to in any emergency, should be capable of leading the ignorant as well in war as peace, and by their having a good stock of knowledge in the mili- tary science may, in a measure, impart that to the great mass of the people; that if this were the case, then the militia being respected, we should never be frightened with the idea of a standing army, and we should be more respected abroad, as they found we were so well[86]
disciplined at home; this he affirmed is not a visionary scheme, but the result of many years experience. Having travelled thro' the better part of the United States on foot, he says, he has found that the people of the different states were not so unfriendly toward each other as newspapers and Demagogues would pretend, and there is a mutual dependence of the various parts on each other which make the one necessary to the other; the North has the manufactories, the middle states agriculture, that is of grains, the South of cotton and Tobacco, and these are mutually wanted by the[56]
different sections, and thus whilst their interests are different, their dependence mutual; we can never be overrun by Executive Power unless by suffering our militia to grow into disrepute, a standing army becomes necessary, and the main body of the nation feeling no disposition to trouble themselves with the defence of the country, and the military naturally leaning more toward the Executive, at last, is used by some unprincipled Bonaparte, to wrest the liberties[87]
of his country from the defenceless people. Saturday May 9th 1835Having sat up pretty late last night at Mrs. Gray's(P43865), where I visited the Miss Conway's and Miss Tutt(P47246), which my foot being cramped in a tight shoe, was of no great advantage to my sore toe; on that account I did rise as early as usual, but on waking up found it raining very hard, as indeed, it was when we left the Old Madame's last evening. Attended Old Blaet(P45632), and then read Latin, or rather pretended to it, until Twelve; on going down to the Post Office then, found the mail had not arrived, and going again, soon afterward, was disappointed in not receiving a letter; and, which I forgot to note down yesterday, was much pleased at receiving one from Charles Carter(P47612) 183. Idled away my time 'till Dinner and from then 'till Partridge's(P43952) Lecture, which tho' not as interesting as the one last afternoon, was still instructive, and worthy of attention, and had for its subject the Education of Youth in all its branches; on this subject, he gave his opinion, as to the defects of our Colleges generally, these being conducted by Sectarians184, men who only thought
[88]
it necessary to fit a young man for a profession, or to give him a Scholastic Education, the accomplishments suited to finish off a man, and more especially many of the most useful branches of knowledge[57]
being neglected, and with the attachment which all men show to their own pursuits, he said, that the military Science should be a fundamental part of the Education of every young man, and therefore be taught in every Public Seminary, or at least in the higher Institutions; he then proposed a scheme of National Education, to be promoted if not established by the General Government, viz: that Congress(CB0089) should form a Committee of Representatives to draw up a system of National Education, predicated on the tone of our Government, and freedom of our Institutions, then that it should be declared to each State, that on condition of her raising one or more colleges, and adopting the plan drawn up by the committee that they would receive so much of the Public Land185, sufficient to maintain the Colleges, and thus he said, if the System of Education was rightly drawn up, our citizens would be better instructed in Knowledge, in[89]
enjoying as well as maintaining Freedom, better inclined to submit to the Laws of our Country, and Education thus be diffused throughout the whole nation; Congress having nothing to do with the operation of the Institutions, only the appropriating Lands, and the adoption of the regular System, after the whole being under the direction of the States, singly, and there can be no doubt as to the constitutionality of such scheme since they have already made appropriations to several colleges, in some of [the] Western States. Sunday 10th May 1835As I sett up till nearly two o clock last night at a Frolic given by Ogden(P25432), I did not rise at an early hour this morning; found the weather damp and chilly. Had some men in my room till after eleven when it was too late for Church, and so remained in my Dormitory till after Service, then went in to Hobson's(P22593) room where I took
[58]
a good nap till Dinner time; went down to Charlottesville, and attended Mr. Cobbs(P47598), saw divers girls, but as Miss Mary(P47058) was not in town, and my foot was very painful, I did not accompany any of them[90]
home. [EVENT: Student Misconduct:Evading Civil Authorities ] [EVENT: Student Misconduct:Guns ] Heard of another Duel today, between Hamer(P35685) of Mississippi and Wigfall(P32016)186 of S. Carolina; it seems they quarrelled about the hand of Miss Ann Leiper(P47613), one of the newcomers at Bonnycastle's(P43623) Party, Wigfall being engaged to dance with her, and Hamer to escort her home; just as she was in the act of leaving the room to prepare for leaving the party Wigfall came up and claimed his engagement, but on her refusing to do so, he very gallantly seized her hand and pulled her towards the room, upon this Hamer told W., before the ladies present, that he was acting rudely; the next day W. asked H. his meaning for speaking thus to him, and demanded of him to retract it, but H. told him he would not do so, unless Miss Leiper said he had not acted rudely; on this, Wigfall challenged Hamer, and they agreed to move off to Old Point(P9134), and there settle the matter with rifles, as Wigfall was an excellent shot with the pistol, but the affair taking wings, was discovered by Old Penny(P43653)187 and Bonny, who immediately sent down for a Sheriff, who went to Wigfall's room and[91]
arrested him, but he slipped the sheriff by telling him to wait till he wrote a note and stepping into Sampson's(P35802)188 room, moved off leaving the officer waiting his return very patiently, so that he had time to escape himself, and I suppose, to give notice thro' his second, Cheves(P25423), to Hamer that it was discovered, and he too absconded. Wigfall went out into the woods to hide from the constable, but Bonny and Davis(P33195) sett out in pursuit, and soon found him, when he was not without some resistance, persuaded to return, and is now bound over to the Peace, whilst Hamer has cut out, but I am in hopes the whole matter will be settled now; in these duels, should one[59]
happen between a Virginian and a South Carolinian, or man from any of the States who have not Laws against Duelling, the former has to suffer more than the other even tho' he survive, for we cannot in our State hold any office after having fought a Duel, whilst the latter have no such check upon their actions.[92]
Monday May 11th 1835.Altho' I retired to bed at an early hour last night, yet did not rise this morning 'till Pleasants(P26988) had made a trip down to Charlottesville and back. After Breakfast, attended Harrison's(P25515) Lecture; Bonny(P43623) did not meet us today, having disposed of our Lecture-time in reviewing his Senior Class. Read Tacitus with Burwell 'till twelve, and then went to the Post Office, whence I got the Mirror(CB0868), this number quite interesting, as was the last, tho' it does seem to me that there is but little useful matter in it, if we except a piece by Mr. Noah, who so far as I am capable of judging, should stand first amongst our literary men of America. Willis, whose Letters from England(PL6182), constantly fill up a portion of its pages, appears to cover ever his want of Imagination by the abundance of his words, which after all are but feebly chosen. This is a faulty judgement perhaps, since 'tis only formed from the perusal of his Letters, and a short Poem, which last has some one or two good touches in it, but lacked much in the plot which was the love of a sister diverted
[93]
from the pretended writer; and afterward her heart broken, when at the alter with the intended husband, by some fearful discovery. Fay, whose Letters from Italy, likewise furnish material for its columns, is possessed of a more vivid Imagination, and writes with so much feeling that one can hardly help being interested; if we may judge from his writings, he is a young man, and seems to enjoy[60]
life with a gayer mood than Willis, tho' he does not appear to be as deeply versed in the ways of the world as his coeditor, for they are both Editors of the Mirror, Morris 191 being the acting one here. At three again attended Harrison, and read Terence's Andria192 the rest of the evening. Went up to the Rotunda with Pleasants(P26988) to his French Examination, then took a walk with Wysor(P31250)193; on returning to my Dormitory commenced my Diary, but was interrupted by the arrival of William Harrison(P25843); we had a long and confidential conversation in the course of which I pumped out of him, that T.M.(P47615) [?] was engaged to Miss L. C.(P47185)194; after a walk on the Lawn(PL8427) returned to my room, and now to bed. Tuesday May 12th 1835.[94]
My lazy habits kept me in bed till a late hour this morning, tho', on rising, I found the weather mild and the whole appearance of Nature sufficiently beautiful to have roused any one, who had a disposition to admire its beauties, at an early and more lovely time of the morning than is my wont to do.
After Blaet's(P45632) French, went down to Charlottesville, in order to attend the Grand Jury which setts to day; some 15 or 20 students were summoned to appear, as witnesses in several little offences, which have been committed this Session; Oldham195, the fellow who shot Archy Robertson(P23061), was freed from his difficulty, without even a to trial, it being alleged that there was not sufficient evidence to authorize the Jury to make out an indictment. Barton(P22431) and Peter Carr(P34852) were questioned about that affair of Warwick(P32729) with him, and it is said they were near indicting Warwick to be tried for a Penitentiary Offense. According to the opinion of all the Law Students the Jury acted shamefully in asking those who were brought up about one cause, whether they had any knowledge of several others, such as the Duel
[61]
[95]
between Wigfal(P32016) and Hamer(P35685), and such a general question as, "Whether a man had soon any violation of the Laws of the Commonwealth this Session in the University, as Gambling, stoning Old Bonny's(P43623) House, &c"; [it] does seem to me to leave but little Liberty of action; as well call up a man's neighbours, and ask whether ho had not done some criminal action, and thus without suspicion of a person to learn everything within the knowledge of his neighbours; as well go ask a man whether he has thought an evil Idea. There is much mystery about Wigfal and his case. Some say that he has again gone off to meet Hamer at Old Point(P9134), where they are to fight with rifles at ten paces; some that he is merely eluding the Grand Jury, and as I saw Cheves(P25423), and Huger(P33926)196, his second, and friend, but an hour or two ago, I rather suspect the latter, for if we judge from facts alone, Wigfal's manner of making such a fuss before starting, and his bravado, afterwards, "that whoever told Bonny concerning the affair between Hamer and himself was a scoundrel," shows much too great an expenditure of words, and his conduct altogether, in saying, for instance, "that his father and brother had been each shot in a duel and it[96]
was his wish to die thus also;" The Grand Jury have, it is said, sentenced both parties to a fine and imprisonment, but I imagine, the rumor is false. The setting Oldham's case aside was considered by some of the lawyers an unheard of event in court Practice, for a Jury to sett at large a prisoner who had been turned over to them by a County Court, but the true reason is believed to be, that there is so much prejudice against the Students, among the county people, and citizens of Charlottesville that there would have been some disturbance between the Students and than if the trial had have gone against Oldham; the ignorant countrymen do, I verily believe, imagine us cannibals, or something worse, who can take up the bodies[62]
of dead persons, and cut then to pieces; thus it is that Superstition ever combats against Learning, and Science. Went in the evening with Harrison(P25843) to the house of one of these common women, but found no inducements to proceed any farther, and indeed I can not see what pleasure any man can derive from embracing such filthy sluts as[97]
abound here, since he cannot even do that with the danger of catching the Wildfire197, a College name for Gonorrhea. Wednesday May 13th 1835.Pleasants(P26988) says he waked me, when he rose, this morning and that I told him that I would get up, but it must have been in my sleep, as I do not remember anything of it, and thus my slumbers continued till nearly Breakfast time. Attended Harrison(P25515) and Bonny(P43623) and after the latter, at eleven o'clock, went to Barton's(P22431) room to get some of a fine cake his mother has sent him, and found it, like most rarities quite agreeable. Went down to Price's(PL8522) and had my Summer clothes carried here to be built. After Dinner went to another of Gess'(P25515) Lectures; and shortly after leaving that it commenced raining; in half hour attended Blaet(P45632), and spent the rest of the afternoon, till Supper in the Library, and afterward in moving about from room to room, not that I had nothing to do, but I had no inclination to study, one we have no fire now, which is a great assistant to my efforts in that way; it seems I am to be idle the rest of the Session, for I can always find something to turn me away from attending to preparing
[98]
for my Examination; how hard it is to form a good habit? yet, how easy it is to lose one? This is exemplified every day here, studious men continually becoming idle, and so few idle ones becoming studious; it does unfortunately happen that I belong to neither class, never having been industrious, I have not, therefore, fallen into[63]
Idleness, and it still remains to be tested whether I shall belong to the second, and without making any new resolutions, for I have always broken then, I must endeavour to make a vigorous attempt to get thro' in old Gess, as I would not wish to have it said, that I had offered only in Latin and yet could not get thro in that; besides it will be a great source of pleasure to Father(P44134), and perhaps he may consider that as some [return ?] for the great expense he incurs by sending me here, and who would not make ten days struggle with the Latin authors to gratify a Father; would that I could ever have that fresh in my mind, but as the old saying goes, "as the twig is bent so will the tree incline," and he who has trifled away[99]
the better part of eighteen years of his life, must need have many and strong incentives to make him throw aside his Indolence; for the mind like the body can only be brought to close application, as the other to hard labour, by degrees. Thursday May 14th 1835.Rose just time for Breakfast this morning, and employed 'till half past eight at Blaet's(P45632) Lecture, 'till eleven writing a letter to Charles Carter(P47612), and 'till one translating Caesar into Latin; went to Keller's(PL8528) with Harrison(P25843) and Bankhead(P31517), where we were caught by a thunder shower, and it has continued raining till near 4, when it cleared and the ground dried rapidly; after Supper went with Bankhead to Charlottesville; returned my musket; saw Miss Emeline Gardner(P47617)198 at Vowle's(PL8552); went to Dr. Carter's(P47574), saw Miss Lucy(P47185), discoursed her some, Tom More(P47615). Only a common evening visit, and from all appearances do not think there will be any very striking occurrence in the course of Miss Lucy['s] love, which will, no doubt evaporate when she turns out,
[64]
and Tom be laughed at as a school boy, and his love as a whim; so my poor experience teaches, and so I think 'twill be in this case,[100]
as it was in George's(P47238). Heard today by Jim Gray(P24042), that Montagu(P47000) had lost his father; this, tho' I know he will feel it for a time, will, I hope, prove a benefit in the end, for his father is said to have been dissipated and his manner of educating his children by no means such as to conduce to their future standing in Society, and if Mont. may now get a Guardian, who can persuade him to do something toward improving himself, he may yet look forward to something more than his present state of Idleness and dissipation would promise. God grant it may be so, for he has a good heart, and however eccentric toward others has ever been friendly and constant to me. Friday May 15th 1835.Breakfast Bell was near catching me in bed; made out to get there and finish time enough to get to Gess'(P25515) Lecture shortly after he commenced; this and Bonny(P43623) employed me till eleven; when I returned to my Dormitory and began Harrison's(P25515) system of proportion for the Examination in the Language, which is to translate Latin into English
[101]
and the next day the English back into Latin and correcting, the first by some good translation, and the latter by the text. Caesar happens to be my choice for the present and it is my daily practice to turn a chapter into English one day, and Latin the next. If I can pursue this regularly till the Examination comes on, I may stand a chance of passing, but my lazy habits seem to be so indelibly fixed that I ever find some attraction to lead me from my studies. Read some four or five chapters in Tacitus, then trifled till Dinner. Went down to Price's(PL8522), and returning stopped at McKennie's(PL8519) where we spent the better part of the evening. After Supper wrote Etymological[65]
notes of Harrison, and thus another day is passed and what have I gained from it, naught save to avoid over spending such another. Oh how hard it is. for a man to conquer himself. Saturday May 16th 1835.Rose much earlier than usual and now my foot admits of my taking the old walk to the Observatory(PL8635), which looked quite new to me after an absence of several weeks. Blaet(P45632) did not lecture this morning, so that I am entirely free from attending any Professor today. Read
[102]
Tacitus, translated Caesar, went to the Post Office, begun Zumpt199 till Dinner; returned to Zumpt writing off terminations, and thus till Supper; next took a long walk with Barton(P22431) and Pleasants(P26988); on returning dressed and went down to Conway's with the expectation of meeting Miss Ward(P43909), but found I had to content myself with Miss Hunton200 and Sal(P47597); the old lady and I had a terrible dispute about the Bible first, and Dr. Patterson(P43634) and his family afterward; left there, and when I reached my Dormitory heard a mighty hubbub from my neighbour Stanard's(P30132) Frolic, which he gives tonight. Great many good folks visible in these parts now, going up to the Convention,201 to be held the 20th at Lynchburgh(PL4371); preaching and prayer meetings in abundance, and it seems we are to have a plenty of both tomorrow. Very sorry I did not go to see Fraizier(P25975) 202, who is now staying at Mrs. Brockenbrough's(P44061), and as Thomas'(P43568) friend it appears to me that I should pay him some attention, but the cold maxims of this world would perhaps teach me to be frigidly polite till I do see how I myself stand with him, and then make advances. There are two feelings, or rather passions, that harass me continually, Disconent and ambition, or perhaps I should[103]
rather call this last envy of another's superiority, than an honorable ambition to excel. It has been my lot to be thrown with those who[66]
were smaller and younger than myself and thus my capacity, poor as It is, and ever was, has been kept back, and when I made an effort to strive upward for a higher place, I have been brow beat by those above and laughed at by those below; but every effort has been more succesful, and tho' I may fall short of my hopes yet shall I reach some point more elevated than if I had stood and acted with those with whom my race was first begun, and tho' this year has flown on in one unvaried stream and nought has happened, which night disturb my enjoyment of pleasure, yet do I feel dissatisfied. I have not done all that I could have done, and there is some slow but ever-raising lever, which continually elevates me, and pushes me on to strive not to be left among the vulgar herd, and still I have not confidence enough in myself to stand upon a bolder footing and press on to that summit to which my self-tormenting ambition urges me; often do I propose this question "Whether 'tis better in a middle state to seek a moderate pleasure, and thus experience but a moderate degree of pain, or else with a[104]
noble ambition to scale a lofty height, where tho' the pain is greater, yet the pleasure is still more enhanced by the trouble which led to it." Sunday May 17th 1835.After setting up rather later than usual last night, rose pretty early this morning. Read Irving's "Sketch Book" till half past ten and then blazed down to Charlottesville in a new surtout, which being my first "entice" in such an habiliment203, might, before coming here, have excited some vanity, but since what was the chief of my desires is now the least of my thoughts, and tho' I do think that a decent respect for the opinions of others should lead us to dress gentlemanly, also inasmuch as it procures respect for the
[67]
wearer, and in fine, I have found that a fine dress adds more to the reputation of a person than it seems to be generally supposed. On getting to town endeavoured to enter the church, where Mr. Jones204, an eminent Episcopalian, was holding forth, but could not succeed so went to Wards(PL8541) with Crump(P32248) and Bankhead(P31517), where with Harrison(P24853) and several other men, [EVENT: Student Misconduct:Drinking ] we had a small course of mint-julep, returned to Church, and at last reached the middle of the aisle, and with a pinching[105]
shoe on, I was compelled to remain more than an hour standing the whole time, but with a good view of what little Beauty there was present; after a mighty sermon and the Sacrament, returned to college with [Bankhead ?] and went to dinner with him at Mrs. Brockenbrough's(P44061). In the afternoon again attended preaching in the Rotunda(PL8759) however now, and heard a very good sermon from Jones again. After supper went to Crain's(P35514) room and spent the evening there with Ogden(P25432), Pleasants(P26988), and him. Received a letter from Thomas(P43568) to day, dated Buckingham(PL4208); in which he states that he is now on a collecting trip; mentions as news from Richmond the departure of a monkey-show, and the weddings at one of which he was bridesman, and most unfortunately got the five cent piece, a sure prognostic of Bachelorship; in addition he is promoted to the rank of captain in the Militia Service. Monday May 18th 1835.Rose quite early this morning, and took a walk to the Observatory(PL8635) before Breakfast; attended Gess(P25515), but nullified Bonny(P43623), because he came after the time was out. Translated Caesar till near twelve, then went down to Keller's(PL8528) with Burwell(P33180), continued our walk to
[106]
McKennie's(PL8519), where we met Hamer(P35685), who has just returned, having gone as far on his way as Richmond. Attended another of Gess' Lectures at three, and spent the rest of the evening entertaining Barton(P22431) in[68]
my room; after supper went down to Price's(PL8522) with Barton, and having vented my spleen on the confounded tailors for ruining my clothes, returned, and dressed to go over to Mrs. Brockenbrough's(P44061); on arriving there found the Miss Leiper's under way with a song, and so kept out till that was finished, and after going thro' with the introductions and other et ceteras, took my seat, in silence and contemplation, by the side of Miss Elizabeth(P47197) undashed205, it being usual to designate the two who were here before the arrival of the other two, and who have the same name with them, by undashed, the others by one dash; the guitar was in a short time produced, and there commenced a strumming, and screeching, sometimes there was a little melody in some of Miss Elizabeth's(P47197) singing, but when they commenced a duet, and still worse, when Miss Elizabeth(P47618) one dash curled ahead, Jehu! what a torture? All concord of "sweet sounds" was completely ejected on hearing her first twang. Walked back to Dr. Pat's(P43634) with Miss Ann Leiper(P47639) the elder, and was compelled, thro' politeness sake to tell some villainous lies, about the pleasure I had experienced from the delightful music we had, and bidding them[107]
a good night, with a promise of calling on them; turned to Fraizier(P25975), Tom's(P43568) good friend, and after many protestations on his part of his negligence in not writing Tom, and how sorry he was to leave the University, took leave of him as he is to start for Lexington(PL5188) tomorrow; he is, so far as I have been acquainted with him a very fine fellow, and I every day admire the good fortune, or rather tack, with which my Brother secures such worthy friends, whom with all allowance for a Brother's Love, I do take to be the perfection of young men, and do continually thank providence for having set so bright an example before me, and from which I feel I have already derived some advantage.[69]
Tuesday May 19th 1835Rose at a respectable hour this morning, and took a walk with Shands(P21960) and Pleasants(P26988) to the Observatory(PL8635). Attended Blaet's(P45632) farce 'till half past eight; lingered in my room with Bankhead(P31517) till about quarter of ten; then went with Burwell(P33180) to Price's(PL8522), returned to his room and had a fine glass of Rum punch and then I went to work with my studies. Translated a chapter of Caesar; got a letter from Jimmy(P46204), speaking of Lizzy's(P47314) bad health and a romantic trip she had to a shanty
[108]
or little log cabin, where Cousin George Harding206 was staying with his wife, having employment on the railroad, now going on near Richmond. Slept till Dinner, and after that wrote a Spanish Exercise; then took a walk with Aby(P26988), traced the course of the pipes by which the water is conducted to the University up to the very spring from whence it is supplied; found it by fern; the most secluded and romantic spot I have seen in my peregrinations about here; reached College just before Supper, and afterward, set to work preparing Gess'(P25515) Lecture for tomorrow; at nine went over to Burwell's room with him and Barton(P22431) and had another fine glass of punch, which seems to have brightened my ideas a little; yet still does the thought of Improvement haunt me; when I think how wide a field for the human Intellect to range in, yet how few who avail themselves of the advantage of becoming acquainted with even a slight portion, and that fewer still rise above the mediocrity, which men commonly attain, my heart is sunk with fear for the future; whether 'tis that man looks forward to what is to come[109]
with an uncertain expectation, or whether that most minds are too feeble to comprehend it, yet does he ever direct his movements for the present with but little regard for the future, and it does seem to me that the chief test of a strong mind is its anticipating what is to be; and this, so far as I can learn or read, was the most[70]
remarkable characteristic of the Sage of Monticello. Wednesday May 20th 1835.Rose just before six, somewhat later than usual; took a walk with Aby(P26988) to Maury's Spring(PL9242). Attended Gess(P25515) and Bonny(P43623) till eleven; translated Caesar till twelve, went with Burwell(P33180) to Keller's(PL8528) and wrote till nearly Dinner time, until which took a good nap. Gess again, and Blaet(P45632) till half past five. After supper walked with Wilson(P35193), of Portsmouth(PL4269), and on returning took to reading Tumpt, which I found rather dry. Received a letter from Charly Carter(P47612) to day, [and] his good humor still shows itself in a thousand light imaginings, and ludicrous sayings; he seems to be of a happy disposition, but I should have derived it from his natural character, rather than Philosophy. This day my dearly beloved roommate took his Examination in Spanish; [EVENT: Course Reference:Modern Languages ] and that graduating in Modern Languages here is mere trumpery; 'tis
[110]
sufficient to mention that the Examination should have come on yesterday, but Dr. Blaet had, for some reason unknown, gotten the Faculty to postpone it for one or two weeks; the class however being anxious to stand, went to the Chairman and got him to write a paper giving his consent to it coming on that evening, and this paper being carried to the other Professors 'till they had a majority, Blaet was compelled to let it proceed, altho' he did not get thro' entirely with it, part being left for today. It was afterward found out that the cause for his not wishing the Examination being on that evening was, he was invited to a party at Warner's(P43656)207, and so the class expect he will reject the better part, thro' pure spite. Thursday May 21st 1835.Rose early and walked to the Observatory(PL8635), with Pleasants(P26988).
[71]
Attended Blaet's(P45632) Lecture till half past eight. Translated Caesar till after eleven; then went with Burwell(P33180) to Keller's(PL8528), and stopped at the P. O. when returning, but got nothing except an uninteresting newspaper for Pleasants, with nought in it save an advertisement of a monkey show and the Chinese Lady, Afong Moy: whose feet are very[111]
politely published, "to be seen naked," tho' these are by no means the words used, it being most elegantly expressed "that the foot of the Chinese Lady Hill be divested of its bandages and shoe, &c"; it really does appear to me most debasing that an intelligent public should be thus gulled by the Exhibition of a human creature; and in addition "the interpreter will write the names of the company present in Chinese characters at 2½ cents a piece," about as matchless a piece of impudence as I recollect; truly we shall in a short time have such sights as a bog trotter208, I once read of in some old novel, who being tarred and feathered, was caught by a sett of speculators, who imagining they had some rare bird, placed him in a cage, and made an Exhibition of him; this strange and unheard of animal puzzled the most abstruse naturalist, till by frequent rubbing on his hinder parts, some of the outward covering of this "rara avis"209 was removed and exhibited to the astonished spectators the pelvis of a human being. [EVENT: Course Reference:History ] Read translation of Tacitus 'till Dinner; and of the many remarkable characters the historian has written of I do strongly doubt of such a monster as Nero; 'tis a sickening recital, that of his reign, riot,[112]
debauchery, murder, his delight, the murderer of his mother, aunt, wife, and destroyer of the whole Julian Family, as well as the better part of the nobility of Rome, and amidst these revolting scenes not one redeeming action; oven the blameless Seneca, whose very Innocence, because it seems to have been a reproach to his guilt, was not spared. Truly, if this picture be true, we may say that Nature has many[72]
beasts, which may be called savage, yet none more so than a licentious man. Read 'till supper and then walked out with Pleasants after a smart shower, which had cooled the air and infused new vigor into all Nature, it would seem; the birds appear to sing a gayer songs the leaves, before drooping, now raise then with a fresh hue, and the grass puts on a greener verdure, as if all Nature had but purified herself, and was arraying herself in a lovlier and a sweeter robe for joy that the darkness of the Heavens had passed away, and Earth had extracted sweets even from the frowns and muttering menaces of an angry sky; Oh! who can see the Beauties of Nature and not be irresistably attracted and soothed by them? Oh! how sweet is Liberty! how delicious the enjoyment of it.[113]
Friday 22nd May 1835.Rose quite early and found the weather raw and chilly. Took a short walk "solus," Pleasants(P26988) being deterred by the dampness of the morning. Attended Gess(P25515) till half past eight; favoured with the presence and lovesick recitals of Bankhead(P31517) till Bonny's(P43623) Lecture; at eleven went down to Crain's(P35514) room and got so much interested in The Prairie, Cooper's novel210, that I entirely forgot the nearness of my Examination, and the press of studies I had to got thro' with. After Dinner translated Caesar, and after Supper walked out with Brown(P36952), Burwell(P33180) and Pleasants; on my return, wrote a long letter to Charly Carter(P47612) and now find myself in not much inclined to lengthen this out.
Saturday May 23rd 1835.Rose at my usual early hour and walked with Aby(P26988) to the Observatory(PL8635). After my Lecture with Old Blaet(P45632) spent some time before the
[73]
room door with Harris(P31429)211 and Cook(P40184); so soon as they left commenced translating a chapter of Caesar. At eleven went down to McKennie's(PL8519) and returning stopped at Keller's(PL8528) and the Office; got nothing but a paper for Pleasants(P26988), with but little news; says the Cabinet is in a[114]
commotion, and that some of the Secretaries have boiled out of the Executive Caldron, since Amos Kendall has stirred it with his entrance. To return to my diary: attempted to read some in the translation of Livy. Succeeded but poorly, since I had gotten thro' with Livy a few chapters when even the classical elegance of the great Historian could not prevent my heavy eyelids from closing in a pleasant slumber, and thus seated in mine own especial arm-chair, with my lower limbs basking in the delicious influence of a warn sun, which the coolness of the weather has rendered agreeable, mine head reclining upon the back of the aforementioned chair I spent some half hour, unconscious of the fault committed by neglecting my studies, when every exertion should be made by me to perfect myself in the Language Tuesday next when I shall have to attend an Examination on it. After Dinner acted still worse than before, for instead of half an hour, slept the whole evening through; after supper took a walk with Aby and Barton(P22431), and had the pleasure of seeing the three Miss Leiper's. On my return went to Burwell's(P33180) room with Bart and took a glass of Toddy212, to cure a bad heart-burn, but found it of no use; remained conversing with[115]
them until after nine, when I passed ever to my Dormitory and prepared for bed. Heard that Miss Bet Conway(P47197) had returned Just before dinner, but do not go to pay my "devoirs,"213 intending to devote the evening to study, but my inveterate habits clung too close, and thus has the bettor part of a day been wasted; to this much would I could add, Finis.[74]
Sunday May 24th 1835.Took my usual walk with Aby(P26988); and after Breakfast read Irving's Sketch Book214 till Church hour; attended Service, and found an unusual number of womankind; Mr. Cobbs(P47598) being at the Episcopal Convention, now holding at Lynchburgh, Mr. Wadsworth(P47620)215 officiated today; was not much pleased with his sermon, seemed rather too much inclined to rant. After Dinner went down to Charlottesville with the expectation of meeting Miss Lucy(P47185) and perhaps Miss Mary Carter(P47058); on my way down overtook the three Miss Leiper's attended by a like number of beaux; were excessively oppressive, and thought they were rather solicitous of being seen, but when we reached town, was quite amused to find there was no church and so they had to return thro' the boiling sun
[116]
and unless they were compensated for their trouble by the agreeableness of their partners "pro tem,"216 should imagine they would bless the day they started on such a roasting expedition. "Pour que moi"217 passed on with Dick Hobson(P22593) in search of a meeting, but could find none, except a congregation of negroes, whose company we eschewed, and Dick returned to College, while I went with Kit Harris(P24470), Kelly(P30825) and Brown(P36952) to Field and Goss(PL9327)218 to get a glass of Soda Water, still unsuccessful; and next went to Wards, where we solaced ourselves with Iced Juleps, and the sight of Miss Sampson(P47621)219, who was at the University with the Miss Ward's this morning, during the Service. Went around to visit Miss Lucy, but found every one out, and then took up my line of march homewards, "sub fervida sole."220 A walk after Supper, and preparation for Gess'(P25515) Lecture tomorrow employed me till near eleven, when I went to bed sooner than have done for many a night, tho' my Examination, they say the hardest, comes on in two days.[75]
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Monday May 25th 1835Rose early and walked to the Observatory(PL8635) with Pleasants(P26988); weather a little damp from a recent rain. Attended Gess(P25515) till half past eight; Bonny(P43623) has gone to Richmond, carrying the votes of the Professors, and his own, in the James and Kenawha Company(CB0752)221; and it is rumored, to see the Visitors(CB0042) about getting Key(P43622), an eminent Professor in England,222 back here, to fill Pat's(P43634) chair. Forgot to mention in yesterday's diary a troublesome accident, which happened to Burwell(P33180); whilst playing with a pistol, and pulling the cock back it slipped and went off, sending the ball quite thro' his hand, but injuring no bone; tho' he makes rather too much fuss about it, for a fellow of his age, yet it is in a fair way to heal very quickly, and it may possibly be of advantage to him, as he has shown some symptoms of becoming dissipated, frequenting wildly Myers(PL9245), the confectioners223; and keeping liquor in his room. [EVENT: Course Reference:History ] Returned from Gess Lecture to my Dormitory, and translated a speech from Tacitus and also one from Livy; found the former the most difficult, as Tacitus aims so much at conciseness that, tho' he
[118]
does not descend to obscurity, yet makes it difficult often to comprehend his full meaning. Livy, while he does not possess in as full a degree the keen discrimination, or impartial justice of the Biographer of the Caesars, supplies what may be difficult, by the beauty and elegance of his style; the former, appears to be, the grasping powers of a great mind exerted to express its ideas in the most succinct method; the latter flowing diction and elegant imagery more of a poet than a historian; but truly I am afraid if I permit my folly to carry me any farther in giving my judgement on subject so much beyond me that I shall, find the liquidness of Livy to flow but slowly tomorrow night when my Examination on the Translation comes on.[76]
After Dinner attended another of Gess' Lectures, and learnt that the Examination will commence at half past six in the evening, and that we had to bring Livy and Cicero's Letters ad Atticum, which, if the Bear gives us any in, will undoubtedly be a stumbling block to many; After supper a walk with Barton(P22431), Cornick(P21769)224 and Pleasants; went over to see Lewis(P24108), and then prepare Lectures.[119]
Tuesday May 26th 1835.Rose and walked to the Observatory(PL8635) as usual at an early hour. Breakfast over, attended Blaet's(P45632) French; but stop, a little adventure must be related; saw Miss Tutt(P47246) and Sal Conway(P47597) starting out on a morning promenade, just as I had returned from mine; and as neither had a beau, thought that any thing in the shape of one would be acceptable, especially as I had seen the Miss Leipers but a short distance before, attended each by an escort; and as women do not like, so it appears to me, to see a rival fair better attended than themselves, I imagined that when they two unescorted damsels overtook the Philadelphia visitors, they would be glad to have the company of such a poor wight as myself; self; went as far as Maury's little cottage, where we got a quantity of flowers; while returning met Watkins(P27752)225 who relieved me of Sal. This may possibly be impolite, but I always prefer walking with but one lady and Miss Sarah is the last one I should choose for a "tete a tete" of that description; promised Miss Virginia to take a walk with her tomorrow evening and thus ended the rarity of a walk with the fair sex,
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which I have enjoyed (that only word, of course, that can be employed.) for a length of time. After Blaet's Lecture, Kit Harris(P24470) and myself attempted to read some in Cicero ad Atticum, but found it so dry and uninteresting that after getting thro' with a few lines, went down to Price's(PL8522) and called at Keller's(PL8528), when returning. Slept till[77]
Dinner time, and good part of the evening; went to walk with Pleasants(P26988) about half past four. At half past six went into the Examination-room and after alternately scratching my pate and my paper for about six hours found myself the last man in the room, old Gess(P25515) singing and walking up and down and I writing like a millrat, a second copy of my translation, having finished it as early as almost any one in the class, but thro my confounded negligence made a mistake and had to write the whole over, to give in a fair copy. Wednesday May 27th 1835.Aby(P26988) and myself struggled up the mountain side at our accustomed hour; and tho' I had had but little sleep last night, from being detained
[121]
at the Examination so long, yet the freshness of the mountain air, and the sweet carolling of the birds who seem to delight in warbling their "wood notes wild," and clear, shrill song to the rising sun, nature's own choristers to chant her matins in her own melody. No Lectures to day, Bonny(P43623) still in Richmond and Gess'(P25515) being engaged in looking over our papers. Studied none at all, but spent my time till ten in writing to George(P47238); then went down to Wertenbaker's(PL8518); on my return slept till Dinner; wrote Harrison's(P25515) notes on Etymology 'till four; dressed and went to comply with my engagement with Miss Virginia(P47246); found the two Conway's were there and she could not go, unless I could procure beaux for them; made an ineffectual attempt, and having returned solus, spent half an hour with the ladies, and then decamped just about suppertime. Another walk after supper with Aby and Wilson(P35193); very much struck with the similarity of character between John Harris(P43508) and Sam(P35193)226, both having a great turn for Mathematics, as great for spouting poetry; both possessing great confidence in themselves[122]
for performing anything, but such a quiet unconscious kind of[78]
vanity, not overrating themselves above things, but placing things beneath them, one cannot but smile at the earnestness of their high expectations; but it may be of service to them, for as an old proverb, a favorite with my father, says, "he who strives for the highest will scarcely be left among the lowest." On returning from walk, after stopping a while with some fellows on the range, went to the Moot Court(CB0987), heard a good discussion on a case of Political libel, but did not stick it out; went over to Buck's room, played Loo with him, and on his leaving to attend a supper in Barksdale's(P28117)227 room, with Skinker(P41455), came back to my Dormitory, wrote my diary and cut to bed. Thursday May 28th 1835.Trudged the old road to the Observatory(PL8635), and found it getting quite warm even at [that] hour. After Blaet's(P45632) French, took to translating Tacitus, and met with an extremely difficult piece; Kit(P24470) came in shortly after I had finished it and commenced reading Tacitus with me but soon gave it up, as useless. Went about twelve down the Office, met Duke(P27140)228 and carried him to Keller's(PL8528), after an Ice-cream, and
[123]
a talk over our prospects for this evening's Examination, a continuation of the Tuesday night one. On my return took a good nap 'till dinner; translated Tacitus, a chapter of it, for an hour or more; returned "Cicero ad Atticum" to the Library and then to supper; after which, in a half hour, the Examination commenced; had a pretty difficult piece to deal with, but by no means so hard as the candidates generally make out; got thro' with my translation about half past eleven; on leaving the room went, with Brown(P36952) and Duke to the Dormitory of the former, and compared notes by the Translation of Murphy229; found not as many mistakes as in the Livy, and what I did have were not so important as in the other Book.[79]
Friday May 29th 1835.Having admired the sweet notes of one of our common thrashers and the beauty of the Prospect from the Observatory(PL8635), in our usual morning walk, returned to the dull confines of college walls and a Breakfast [at] which any negro in my Father's(P44134) house would grumble, but
[124]
possibly 'tis well for us. College is no place for learning the Gastronomic art, and many is [the] time that I have risen from table with my hunger unsatisfied, but truly because I could not get anything eatable. Attended Gess'(P25515) Lecture; rid of Bonny(P43623) today as he did not return, until near dinner time. Went, with Pleasants(P26988), down to Charlottesville, in search of a couple of beasts to go up to the top of the Ridge, having just passed an Examination. I have a great desire to take some little recreation, and especially to indulge myself in strawberries and Juleps, which are quite fluent between here and C; found every attempt at getting a horse unsuccessful; on our return towards College stopped an hour or so to see Josh Jones230, who is quite sick; leaving him came on up and slept till Dinner. After that meal, read Robinson's Journal231 'till I received a couple of victs by Brockebrough(P25451) about half past four, which ma sent up from Richmond. Went next over to see Burwell(P33180), and after beating him at a game of drafts, Visited Barton(P22431) and Snip232; heard from them that Pat(P43634) exhibits his magic Lantern to night, and agreed to go with them to see it. After supper took a walk with Pleasants and Burwell; went in to see[125]
the beauties of Dr. Pat's magic; adjourned, with Harrison(P25843), to his room; and soon became engaged in a game of whist; after a while, on Browning(P25473)'s233 leaving us, Cooke(P40184) and we two kept up the sport with Loo, and vingt-et-un, until half past twelve, when thinking it night for all such sober men as myself to be in bed, moved off to my Dormitory.[80]
Saturday May 30th 1835.Pleasants(P26988) and myself still continue to be very regular in taking our morning walk, and always in the same direction, up to the Observatory(PL8635). Attended Blaet's(P45632) Spanish, and returning went into Gess'(P25515) office to see him about the result of the Examination, and was very much chagrined on finding he had placed me among the "Doubtfuls." Immediately commenced studying the Geography, but in a short [time] was compelled to give it over, from the drowsiness, which my setting up so late last night, has caused; slept till after one, then again undertook the Geography. After Dinner translated Caesar. [EVENT: Student Conduct:Celebrations ] Great commotion in college about a monkey show, to be exhibited in town to night; all the students seem to be going down, and it is expected that there will
[126]
be a riot with the mechanics and other such ragamuffins, who always attend where there is noise and a crowd. As for myself, I shall have to decline visiting such a delectable sight, as Mrs. Perkins(P47622) is now at Dr. Penny's(P43653), and I must, in duty bound, pay my respects to her and as She can no doubt give me much information about matters in general I do not much regret my not being able to go down to Charlottesville. Went at seven with Barton(P22431) & Snip to see Mrs. Perkins(P47622), and found Mrs. Richardson 234, her mother, there also; nothing of interest transpired, except that we had some cakes, and was saddled with a couple of Temperance papers235, which however will be useful in various ways. On coming back into College, went to Morris(P22431)236 room and a fellow who been at the circus, said there had been no row, and that many ladies were present at it; consequently things went on such more smoothly than usually.[81]
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Sunday May 31st 1835.Rose early, but so much engaged in getting clothes for the day ready, such as sewing on buttons and the like, that I did not accompany Pleasants(P26988) in his morning walk. After Breakfast spent some time with Hill(P24285) and Stanard(P30132) before my room; and then wrote a letter, to go down by Mrs. Perkins(P47622). Short time after eleven went to hear Mr. Cobbs(P47598), who has returned from Lynchburgh(PL4371): and says he will not consent to serve another year here, so that we shall have a Baptist minister next session; and I hear Mr. Broaddus, of Culpepper(PL4333)237, spoken of. On leaving church and returning to my Dormitory, found Harrison(P25843) and Barton(P22431) with Aby(P26988); Burwell(P33180) soon came in, and we regaled ourselves with a quantity of strawberries, which I procured from an old negro passing by; that fruit and cherries being very fluent in college; no doubt Diarrhoea will be equally so in a few days. After Dinner went down to Charlottesville, with Gretter(P24783); went to Dr. Carter's(P47574), but found the ladies had already gone to church, so adjourned to the house of prayer; on my way a great inclination to hear Dr. Hamet(P44070), and a still greater to walk home
[128]
with some of the fair damsels of these quarters; pulled me different ways, at last the latter conquered, and after sleeping thro' the sermon, accompanied Mrs. Carter(P47815), and Southall(P47519), to the house of the latter; there went on with Miss Lucy(P47185) and Miss Martha Winn(P47606) to Mr. Winn's(P47195); spent the evening there with Tomlin(P43725), Gretter and Calloway(P30645)238; having token supper and some fine Ice-cream aboard, hoisted anchor and sett Sail for College, at the rate of six [K]nots an hour; made an engagement with Lucy Carter(P47185), before leaving, to go with me to the beast show, which is to be exhibited on Monday. On reaching the University dropped,for a few moments, into Snip's room; came over; got my letter, and carried it to Mrs. Perkins(P47622); met Dr. Massie(P47623) 239, old Penny(P43653) and his wife; when I was coming away, the last gave no an invitation[82]
to take dinner with them tomorrow, but I beg to be excused; and so once more got back to mine humble domicil[e], and retired to bed, after spending a short time in Shand(P21960)'s room.[129]
June 1st 1835 Monday.Rose pretty early and walked, with Pleasants(P26988) to Maury's Spring. After Breakfast attended Gess'(P25515) Lecture; between his and Bonny's(P43623) hour solaced myself with some half-ripe cherries, which fruit is getting very fluent throughout college. After Bonny's Lecture, busied myself with an exercise and other matters relating to Gess' Ticket, as I have to stand a tough Examination on the Translation, from English into Latin, on the 18th. Did not do much after Dinner, having promised Lucy Carter(P47185) to attend her to the mighty circus now in town, which, together with a menagerie now there, has taken nearly every student down to Charlottesville; at five started for town, and found it alive with people, this being likewise courtday: after moving about with Harrison(P25843), among drunken men, and moving animals of all sort, went to the Dr.(P47574)'s, and was agreeably surprised find Miss Mary(P47058) had returned, and almost equally so that Lucy(P47185) did not intend going to the scene of abomination, yclepted240 here, circus; where, it is said, they are not very choice in their expressions during the performances, and many things are exhibited, by no means suitable for the delicacy of a refined female; which things were indeed confirmed in my being induced
[130]
to attend, and was most infernally bored by the coarse vulgarity arid wretched performance of both actors and horses; thoroughly disgusted with both audience and exhibition, I trudged up to the University, with Kelly(P30825), and a stiff julep, which last came near having some effect on me, from my not having anything more substantial in my stomach, as I came away from College before supper, and did not stay long enough at the Dr.'s to get any.[83]
June 2nd 1835 Tuesday.At my usual hour took my usual walk, and attended Blaet's(P45632) Lecture at the same old half past seven, which is ever my tune on this day; indeed attendance on Lectures, and preparation for them is now my only theme, as it is my only care; on leaving Blaet's, went to Gess'(P25515) office to get his notes, and had a long conversation with him about the coming Examinations, and he says they Will be very much crowded, as he has his Greek Class to attend to also; so that we will have to work so much the harder at our Ticket, which neighbour Sampson(P35802), who has graduated on nearly all the academic course, says is the most difficult of any;
[131]
wrote off the notes, and read a litle Caesar for tomorrow's Lecture untill Dinner. Had Archy Robertson(P23061) till half past three in my room; again a little Caesar 'till near supper time; when I took a short nap; soon after finishing our evening meal, a long walk with Shands(P21960) and Aby(P26988). On my return wrote an Exercise for Gess; my Diary and then while the lightning plays and the rains pour without, I prepare me for bed within; but before retiring let me mention: that Mrs. Perkins(P47622) left to day, and her carriage driver took my cloak down with him, and a deal of trouble off my hands, as to how I should got it home. June 3rd Wednesday 1835.Took but a short walk; after Gess(P25515) Lecture had Martin(P22146)'s241 company 'till Bonny's(P43623) the better part of the time between the two; however, wrote off my notes; after Bonny, finished writing them; soon after went to the Office, and received a letter from George(P47238) in which he gives me had news about Montagu(P47000): that his father had not mentioned him in his will, and that Mont. seemed but little affected by his death, and
[84]
that there always had been shown by Mr. Thompson(P47624)242, an aversion to Mont.; from the Office passed on to Polk's, alias, Bil Robertson(P39501)243, gave[132]
him his notes Book and returned to College under a burning sun. Read some in Spanish; and after dinner prepared Blaet's(P45632) Lecture and an Exercise; took a game of chess with Aby(P26988), that is, attempted to show him the game; then the Lecture; another game on my return; supper; and a long walk, in which we stopped an hour or so at Blaky's(CB0946)244; on again reaching my Dormitory; prepared Blaet's French; another game of chess with Pleasants(P26988); a French Exercise, and then to bed. Thursday June 4th 1835.Rose very early and arrived at the Observatory(PL8635) much sooner than usual. French my only Lecture on this day, which is from half past seven to half past eight. After that trifled some time away eating cherries, and fixing several little things; managed at last to trans- late a short chapter in Caesar; and then laid on my bed, with the intention of reading some in it, but, as might have been expected, a drowsy fit came over me, and I slept 'till Pleasants(P26988) returned from the Office, when I read the newspaper; and Harrison(P31221) of N. Carolina245 coming in, we took three games of chess, which lasted 'till long after dinner commenced; however, on going down found, the old madame had provided
[133]
for me, and lost nothing by staying away, as she had, by her considered a least wonderful dish, strawberries for our desert; of which I had a super abundance. Passed the afternoon with as little profit as the morning, and after supper equally so; thus, while time should be precious to me, I am throwing away whole days; how does my conscience reproach with my Idleness. Tomorrow is the 5th and the Examination comes on the 18th and yet I am but poorly prepared, at least in comparison with what I should be. we have had quite a severe thunderstorm, and heavy[85]
shower of rain, which has lasted throughout the evening and has not stopped yet; indeed we have experienced very pleasant changes for the last week or so, having, nearly every evening, rain, and the day quite cool. Nothing extraordinary, except that Aby(P26988) put his hand on one of my squirrels, which I still have; he has a singular prejudice to all rats, cats, mice, and animals of that description, so that his overcoming his antipathy so far as to touch a squirrel, which he has never done before, is somewhat astonishing! he is in fact, an unique character.[134]
Friday June 5th 1835.Our walk to the Observatory(PL8635) was somewhat diversified by the beauty and singularity which the surrounding country presented, on our reaching the summit of the mountain; the evening before we had had a severe thunderstorm, and the fogs produced by the dampness of the earth, were floating this morning in a thousand fantastic shapes; one large broad line of vapour stretching along the foot of Carter's Mountain(PL9217) had very much the appearance of a river; we were ourselves kissed by a passing cloud, and enveloped for a time in one of the Draperies of Heaven; the expression should be allowed, since we have gotten among the clouds; descending from our lofty position to the miseries of a wretched breakfast. Gess(P25515) and Bonny's(P43623) Lecture employed me till eleven; slept till after twelve, and throughout the day my only study was translating a chapter of Caesar; and thus do I spend my time. After Dinner took a couple of games of chess with Harrison(P25843), in which we came off even; after supper prepared an Exercise, and Lecture for Blaet(P45632), then decamped, with an aching head, to bed, i. e. with a severe headach.
[86]
[135]
Saturday June 6th 1835.My regular walk; Blaet's(P45632) Lecture till half past eight; translated chapter of Caesar: slept; eat cherries; and a few games of chess, with Brown of Florida(P36952)246 'till Dinner; some slight preparation for Gess(P25515). Monday Lecture; walked with Barton(P22431) and Pleasants(P26988) down to Marshal's(PL9219), ordered a pair of boots; went around to Field and Goss(PL9327) and got a glass of soda; then returned; meeting on the way the Miss Ward's(P43909); the oldest more intelligence than refinement; after supper went over to Harrison's(P25843) room; road with Browning(P25473), Cooke(P40184), and Bill(P25843) 247, for sometime; Wilson(P35193) came in and Browning left us; on Wilson's departure Cornick(P21769) came and we kept up our reading thro' the whole night; when I imagined it about twelve at night, Lewis(P44651) rung the bell at four in the morning for rising; we finally broke up at half past five; and then took a walk toward the Observatory(PL8635) mountain; got a super-abundance of cherries from a tree at Maury's, but I am getting into—
Sunday June 7th 1835After Breakfast laid me down to a comfortable nap, from which I did not wake till two o clock; should have gone down to Charlottesville,
[136]
had it not rained; as it was, went out, with Merrywether(P24991) and Moore(P38129)248, to the same tree of cherries at Maury's, that we visited this morning. Had a bad headache, and so went to bed quite early. Monday 8th 1835.Rose tolerable early, but did not get dressed till nearly Breakfast time; attended Gess(P25515); Bonny(P43623) being sick, did not have to go to his Lecture; Aby(P26988) and myself went down to Charlottesville; about some bills which he and I owed there; met several carriages of visitors to the
[87]
Springs(PL9242) going out; suppose we will be flooded with them in a short time: on my return wasted some time at the office, as much in cramming myself with some abominable cherries, and thus did nothing more till Dinner, than correct a translation of one of the chapters out of Caesar. After Dinner translated a chapter; attended Gess Senior Latin at three. After Supper took a long walk with Aby and Shands(P21960). This day Whitsuntide,249 and therefore met an abundance of negroes on the road.[137]
Tuesday June 9th 1835.Rose early and took a long walk. Had only Blaet's(P45632) French to attend to day. After that Lecture went down to Mill's(P24284) room to see Sinton(P47625), an old schoolmate of mine, and met there also Mill's Father; sat about an hour; then translated part of a chapter of Caesar; received a letter from Father(P44314): in which he sends no the painful intelligence of James Carter's(P47267) death; this is the second intimate associate I have lost, within the last two or three years; poor Mudburn250 was the first; his amiability and the whole tenor of his life were the highest praises to those who knew him; he however died with all his relations around him; but poor James, the earliest part of his life passed under the brutal outrages of his drunken Father, and after having spent some few years in his grandfather's house, long enough to learn its sweets and comforts, there sent to push his way to distinction at West Point; there just as he had passed his first two years with credit to himself, and was expecting so much enjoyment from his return to his friends, be cut off in so untimely a manner, his death being caused by a
[138]
foil entering his eye, and passing completely into the brain, he and a young man by the name of Theodore Kennedy251 fencing together; his old grandfather, whose delight he was, is said to be at the point of death; his having been delicate and the untimely end of James has brought[88]
the venerable old man near his grave. But I must turn from this to my common place occurrences again; slept a good deal; idled more; studied a little, and after a long walk in the evening, and some little study after supper, went to bed at or near twelve. Wednesday 10th June 1835.After my walk, Breakfast and Gess'(P25515) Lecture, which employed me 'till half past eight; went down to McKennie's(PL8519) to get me a check for $50 discounted, but found it impracticable to do so anywhere, except at Penny's(P43653) office. On my return stopped at Keller's(PL8528) where I met King(P43092) and had a long conversation with him about Tutwiler(P23853)252, who is now at Alabama College; (CB0932) father having written me in his last letter to find out whether he could be persuaded to leave his present situation and come to the Richmond Academy(PL9246); King, who is from Alabama, and has been at
[139]
the College in that state, says that Tutwiler has had a difference with the President of the College, and tho' very popular with the trustees, as a Professor yet they do not think he has the interest of their Institution at heart, and this combined with some other less important causes have led the expectation that Tutwiler will be turned out of his chair, that of Ancient Languages; he has filled the chair of Mathematics in the same Institution, with great credit to himself, and the Trustees are loathe to give him up, but taking all things into consideration, he may readily be induced to return to his native state; especially as he is very anxious to get a place in this university; and by getting so advantageous a post as the head of the Academy at Richmond he would stand a very good chance. On my arriving at College, I saw Browning(P25473), who says pretty much the same with King; immediately wrote a letter to father(P44314), containing what information I could collect on the subject: after that wrote a post script to a[89]
letter of Harrison(P25843) written to Bankhead(P31517). Carried our letters down to[140]
the Post; went on to Keller's(PL8528), and on my way back had my check dis- counted at Penny's office. Reached my room, and attempted to study, but soon found that it had such an effect on me, that I gradually fell from the composition of Latin to a most composing slumber, when having staggered to my bed I sailed away at the rate of ten [k]notes an hour until within a short time of Dinner. Til Harrison's(P25515) Lecture at three translated Caesar, and after the Lecture finished my translation; at half past four went to Blaet's(P45632) Spanish, and after Supper took an unusually long walk with Pleasants(P26988) and Burwell(P33180), tho' It had been raining quite hard, and was threatening more, when we started; got back dry however; and I went next to Mr. Cobbs(P47598) vespers or prayer meeting which ever you prefer; saw the new Miss Tutt(P47814)253, sister of Mrs. Bonnycastle(P47082); and talking with Mrs. Brockenbrough(P44061) a while, returned to my Dormitory; wrote an exercise; heard that old Penny(P43653) and Keller(P44075) were near having a fight, and after having had a conversation with Stanard(P30132) in his room, betook myself to my own; wrote my diary and decamped to bed.[141]
Thursday June 11th 1835.Pleasants(P26988) and myself took our walk up to the Observatory(PL8635) this morning and reached college sometime before Breakfast. Attended Blaet's(P45632) Spanish Lecture; and after that translated Caesar; Pleasants received a paper giving an account of James Carter's(P47627) death; and except the prosperity of Richmond, which, seems to be at last on the "qui vive,"254 and rising rapidly, there is no news. A short time after one, went over and took a couple of games of chess with Harrison(P31221) of N. Ca. After dinner went to Brown(P36952)'s room, and learnt that Gess(P25515) had determined to combine three of our coming Examinations into one, and we have but
[90]
four days to prepare than all in; went up to his office, found him out, and passed on to Snip's room; talked away so busily that I entirely forgot Gess' Lecture at three; saw him on his return from Lecture, and returning immediately to my Dormitory, sett about preparing the Etymology of which we have near 60 pages to prepare; after supper, and a brisk shower of rain, took: a walk thro' Maury's lane with Aby(P26988). As soon as I reached my room again commenced the Etymology, and in a little[142]
time should have studied myself to sleep, had not Albert(P46978), our servant, brought me, per order, a pot of strong coffee255, it being usual with men who wish to sett up late to resort to this means of stimulating themselves; worked away, like a horse till twelve, tho' much incommoded by the din of an infernal catgut instrument256, by which melody, a B sorthesns, seems determined to let the world know his talents; however when a man has but one good quality about him 'tis well to make the most of it; Just before finishing my night's task was interrupted by the shouts of a frolicking party who were cutting some capers thro' college; went out and enjoyed the beauty of the scene from the Lawn(PL8427); the long range of white pillars, the open trellis-work, extending up to the Rotunda, and that building throwings its massy outlines clearly defined against the sky, lit up by a brilliant moon, southward the dark masses of wood presenting a dark and gloomy aspect, and once more turning, before retiring to my Dormitory, up to the almost cloudless expanse of Heaven, studded with stars, and a light gossamer cloud casting itself in waving line for a few moments across[143]
the pure rays of the moon, like the veil of some heavenly beauty shading her lovely features from the gaze of man, then with a relenting hand slowly withdrawing it as if to exhibit how pure mortals must become e'er they can join the immortal choir above; quite practical for a fellow, who has been studying the changes of consonants and[91]
vowels for the last 5 hours. Finis to the hours & poetry. Friday June 12th 1835.Did not take my usual walk, as I sett up too late last night. After Breakfast attended Gess'(P25515) Lecture and Etymology. After that, wrote off his notes till eleven, then went to another Lecture on the same subject, as the Dr. is anxious to get thro' with it; on finishing the notes and carrying them to Gess, took a nap 'till Dinner, then attempted to study some, but failed, as usual; took a walk, and studied 'till two, or thereabouts; in fact I can always study better at night than in day time; men are not continually interrupting me, and every things is so still and quiet, that a person has not the slightest thing to disturb him, if I except an half or so, of this night, when a tribe of fellows, went to take a shower bath at the pump.
[144]
Saturday June 13th 1835.Again rose late, from my setting up to such a late hour last night; went to Blaet's(P45632) Spanish, slept sometime, went and paid my Bill at Keller's(PL8528); returning "via" Post Office received a letter from father containing $170 for matriculating, in order to secure a good room, Boarding-house &c. for next session. After Dinner went down to Charlottesville with Aby(P26988), merely as a walk. After supper only studied 'till ten, and before I left off, was pestered with the same hubbub at the pump.
Sunday 14th 1835 JuneRose time enough to put on a change of clothes, and get to Breakfast. Went to Hill's(P24285) room with him and eat cherries till I was completely
[92]
filled, notwithstanding I had but just finished Breakfast. On my return to my room found some fellows there, who remained sometime; played draughts with Moore(P38129) of La. till twelve; had Govan(P35461)257 and two or three other students there eating cherries till near Dinner time; went down to church in Charlottesville; while the sermon was going on a severe thunderstorm came on; went to Mrs. Southalls's(P47519) with[145]
Miss Willy Timberlake(P47059), both of them being up on here on a fortnight's visit; staid with them and the two Miss Carters(P47185), several men along, till eleven o clock; finding no one inclined to move, and as I was aware how precious my time is, about this time, I determined to make a move; as I had lost some part of the night, it would by no means suit me to have to sleep all day tomorrow; Alston(P30623), Mitchell(P25283)258 and Bankhead(P31517), the fellows along, immediately took the hint and followed; reached my room about twelve; wrote my Diary for the three last days and then attempted to make up for lost time, by determining to sleep at the rate of 15 [k]nots an hour. Monday June 15th 1835.Rose this morning rather earlier than for the last two or three from having gone to bed sooner last night, tho' that was twelve o'clock. Attended Gess(P25515) at half past seven, but soon found I could employ my time better in my Dormitory and so evacuated the Lecture room; and soon sett too most devotedly at Harrison's(P25515) twisted Etymology; which seems to me to be "in nu biis, in toto"259; and extremely absurd in Gess, to make us study it after having Graduated in the
[146]
Language; an the Etymology can only be of the slightest importance unless connected with the Language; to study it after having passed the latter, does appear to me, to be like putting a horse with his head to the body of a vehicle and expecting him to be of use whilst[93]
in that situation; but Bears pretty generally ascend tail foremost, and old Gess, alias Bear, seems to be counting among the branches of his Etymological Tree pretty much in a backward fashion; it is said he kicks rather hard sometimes however, and I am afraid that one of his would-be-Graduates will find a difficulty in scrambling up after him; however bolted ahead and made a vigorous attempt to mount the said tree 'till Dinner time, and found I had made some little progress; dismissed my consonants and vocative cases, for fear I might be found in the same case, which was not at all consonant with my then Bearish appetite; and indeed such a one was wanted to digest the condiments, and nondescript meats which were met with there. After having shown my powers of Gastronism to some purpose, and chewed a piece of villainous whipleather lamb in the cud of despair, left the table, but "Du gratia[147]
victorious"260 over the said lamb; was quite busy this evening and finished revising sixty odd pages of notes and procured an additional supply for tonight. After supper, went down to Charlottesville, for a walk, with Shands(P21960) and Aby(P26988); net Miss Willy Timberlake(P47059), and killed a cat261, the only variety in it; on my return sett to work and studied till twelve; then wrote my Diary and slipped to bed, but first, let me mention, that Old Bonny(P43623) is very ill and some have rumored dangerously; but College reports are as light as the breath with which they are spoken, and I have heard from a more authentic source, that tho' quite sick he is not considered to be in any great danger; his loss would be deeply felt by the Institution; for say what they may of the callousness of his heart, his head is not injured by it, and he is undoubtedly the main stay of the University; it may be that his seeming want of feeling is but the indifference with which worldly-mindedness looks upon the nicer qualities and finer affections, which young persons are so much accustomed to regard, but, if what is said be[148]
[94]
true, it might be suspected, that he was not more scrupulous with respect to the nicer shades and points of honor; so far in every kind of intercourse I have had with [him], he has appeared to be a gentleman in manners, as well as mind; and the truth is that no man can fill his post, of Chairman, without exciting a great deal of dislike. Tuesday June 16th 1835.Rose just time for Breakfast, and sett to work immediately afterwards preparing Etymology; neglecting Blaet's(P45632) Spanish; also missed an important extra lecture of Gess'(P25515); studied 'till near Dinner time, then went down and saw Trueheart about getting some notes of his, and he agreed to study then over; after Dinner, employed the evening in that manner and at half past six went to the Examination; found it quite difficult; got thro with my papers about half past eleven, and then, whilst waiting for Trueheart, had a long conversation with Dr. Harrison(P25515) on the Literature of America; literary men; Tutwiler(P23853), who is an intimate friend of his; and wound up with a few boot licking remarks, which, so far as I can judge, will be wanted to get me thro'
[149]
this Examination. At half past one left the Lecture room, and adjourned to bed; but having experienced great languour and a severe headach, during the Examination, produced by stimulating myself with strong coffee, and setting up till two o'clock at night, preparing for the Exam. Wednesday June 17th 1835.Did not see the sunrise this morning, but got up time enough to be among the first to pay my respects to the Old Madame(P43865)'s heavy rolls, and watery milk. Afterwards attempted to prepare the Geography,
[95]
which is to come on the 20th, but found I had to[o] much need of sleep to force myself to study, so soon after such a siege as we had with the confounded Etymology. Slept 'till not far off from Dinner time, which one might consider a small nap. In the evening went down to Charlottesville, with Pleasants(P26988).Read the newspaper till supper; took a walk with Hobson(P22593); and again made an attempt at the Geography, which proved rather more successful than before; studied till eleven; wrote my Diary and hopped "in cubiculs."
[150]
June 18th Thursday 1835Rose earlier than usual, and took a long walk with Pleasants(P26988). After Breakfast begun my preparation on the Geography, and studied like a horse, (college expression) till eleven, when I went to sleep, requesting Aby(P26988) to wake me about twelve, but when I next found myself awake it was near dinner time, tho' Aby says he waked me at one. Went out to get some news from the Examination, but could only learn that six had passed, nothing being known about the rest; from Daniel Triplett(P22654)262 passing, as well as Govan(P35461), conceived great hopes, which were, alas! to[o] soon dissipated, by hearing, after Dinner, that the before mentioned six were the only persons who had gotten thro; so that I am dished, after all my setting up till two o'clock, and delving at Old Gess'(P25515) infernal Etymology; but there is a consolation in knowing that there is no disgrace in being rejected on this Examination, as I did not have some of the most important part of his Lectures and was totally deficient in notes, on the subject, if I may except a few hours before the Examination commenced; but then the trouble of
[151]
going over the tedious business again; however it is so, and I must undergo it once more, as I am determined the Diploma shall not be[96]
lost for want of trying; and some may think it consolation to have company, of which I have plenty, but were it not, that would prefer not being the only scapegoat of the class, for a man will always look first to his own feelings. I would feel happy to have heard that some of the poor fellows, many of whom, have more to do than I, had passed; as a swaping excuse for the whole it may be adduced that the Examination was the most difficult of any yet, and we had far less time to prepare it in. But to return to my daily occurrences, took a walk with Pleasants(P26988), after driving at the Geography the whole evening. On my return again commenced it, and continued till nearly eleven at night. Had a brisk thunder shower this evening, which has now stopped, but rendered the air cool and refreshing.N. B. The Old Madame(P43865) has strawberries and raspberries for desert to day; but her general fare is miserable.
[152]
Friday June 19th 1835.
Rose earlier than my usual late hours have hitherto permitted me; and employed myself in coopering up an old pair of pants for this day's wear. After Breakfast sett to work on the Geography, and studied it, at intervals, 'till one O'clock when I took a nap until two, Dinner, hour, found it almost impossible to fix my thoughts steadily to my studies, this evening, and indeed during the whole day, so that I have made but poor progress. After supper took an unusually long walk, with Shands(P21960) and Aby(P26988). On my return, after having cooled myself, being much heated by the walk, again commenced tile Geography, and [k]nocked ahead on it, with rather better success than to day, till eleven. Found out that there had been a mistake about Daniel(P22654) and Govan's(P35461) passing the last Examination, both being either partly or wholly rejected. I have not ascertained which, so that it is no source of comfort
[97]
to me that such men as them should pass. Pleasants(P26988) carried down my fare to pay for our seats, as we intend going on the 4th, and unless seats are procured now, we will have to wait.[153]
June 20th Saturday 1835.Rose at a respectable hour after my last night's study, and employed myself 'till near Breakfast in repairing a pair of pants. After Blaet's(P45632) Lecture went to see Dr. Harrison(P25515), and got certain news about the result of my Examination, viz: that I had passed the Etymology, but was rejected on the translation; he urged me to try and prepare the Geography by tonight, as he had a great deal of study and many Examinations to get thro' with; so immediately returned to my room and commenced preparations: from half past eight in the morning, till half after 4 in the afternoon studied harder than I had ever done before in my idle life. Took a short walk with Harrison(P25843), Just be- fore supper; and at half past six went into the Examination; wrote out the questions, the most important of which were very easy, by less than nine o'clock; made some mistakes however, next went over to visit Buck; found him and Gray(P24041) at chess; on my making a move, about eleven, towards my dormitory, net Bankhead, returning from Charlottesville, and learnt that Miss Sarah Timberlake(P47006) had left; determined to visit Miss Willy(P47059) tomorrow.
[154]
Sunday June 21st 1835Got up but a short time before Breakfast: after that, went down to Charlottesville with Pleasants(P26988), and after lingering about till arrival of Richmond Stage, and departure of the Sta[u]nton, took a julep at Ward's(PL8541) with Whaley(P47568)263, and marched up thro' a broiling sun;
[98]
tho' the day is unusually cool otherwise, that the air is chilly, while in the sun it is exceedingly warm. Forgot to mention that I saw, at Vowle's(PL8552), the exquisite Mr. Buckner(P47626)264, who drove up in a fine double gig; and servant with him; displayed his fine person, and astonished the Aborigines with his vehicle, stepped into it and drove off amidst many a sneer. N. B. seen a country dandy. On reaching my Dormitory sett about packing up some Books to send down by the stage. After Dinner began Byron's Cain265, but finding myself much fatigued soon fell asleep. After supper took a walk with Aby(P26988) and Gray(P24041). On my return after assisting Pleasants by mending an old coat, and writing a letter to father, and another to Charley Carter(P47612) went to bed after 12 P.M.[155]
Monday June 22nd 1835.Rose early and took a longer walk than common, with Pleasants(P26988); attended Gess'(P25515) Lecture, but he commenced on the infernal ablative case, so that I cut out so soon as a chance was presented. Prepared the metres for this evening when the Greek Class stand their Etymology; passed the day pretty much thus employed, and at half past six went in to the Examination; to my surprise found that we had to stand the translation, on which so many of the class were rejected, for which I was totally unprepared; however got my paper and sett about making an attempt at getting through; did not make a very good exit and am very much afraid lest I should be finally rejected; got out of the Lecture room at eleven, and left the Greek Class in, who kept Old gess in till 2.
[99]
Tuesday June 23rd 1835.After Breakfast this morning went down to Charlottesville, with Pleasants(P26988), and took our seats in the Richmond Stage for the 1st July. On my return went round to get the Old Madame's(P43865) certificate concerning the furniture of our room, which is always necessary before settling with the Proctor, but found her sick; met Paul Calloway(P30645), and made an
[156]
agreement with him to go to ride with the ladies at Dr. Carter's(P47574). Returned to my Dormitory and commenced packing up some of my Books, and other matters, in order to send them home. After Dinner, read the Mirror(CB0868) 'till I heard of a [EVENT: Student Conduct:Self-governance ] meeting about to be held by the Students to take into consideration the best method of arranging our preparation for the 4th July; soon after getting there Sampson(P35802) was called to the chair, and Truehart(P27886) explained the object of the meeting, but in rather a lame way, and then offered some resolution, in effect, "that we would appoint a Committee to wait on, or rather make application to the Visitors(CB0042) for the use of the Public Rooms;" Stanard(P30132) next rose and after speaking for some time about the hastiness and informality with which the resolutions, adopted in March, were passed, and that we had determined to brave the Faculty and Visitors, before we had given the latter an opportunity of showing whether they would comply with the manifest desire of the students concerning the elections of orators and Essayists; he offered 4 or 5 resolutions, expressive of our regret for the passage of the March Resolutions[157]
and then appointing a Committee to wait on the Visitors. This did not seem to be much, relished by the students at first. Pleasants then came up to me and told me to go down to the Proctor's Office, if I wished to settle then; accordingly left the meeting, question still under discussion, and after waiting till supper commenced did make out to get thro' with mine at last: while lingering about there,[100]
went into Ogden(P25432)'s room, and learnt that Standard's motion had passed at which he seemed to be very much mortified, for the resolutions were expressly passed in order to save him and the two orators and other Essayist from losing their Diplomas and being expelled from College; heard him read a small portion of his Essay, which he was at that time writing; such a strange Genius is he; it is now not much more than a week from the 4th and he not yet more than half finished his Essay; he has, however, written one before this but not liking the subject, now commenced another, on the "March of Mind"; I expect his will be chiefly excellent in the beauty of his Language and the fecundity[158]
and elegance of his similies. Heard from Calloway(P30645) this evening that was invited to spend the evening at Dr. Carter's(P47574), and thus our intended ride was [k]nocked in the head, but very agreeably softened by exchange. After supper walked down to the City of Elegance with mine excellent neighbour Hobson(P22593); after waiting sometime for Alston(P30623) and Bankhead(P31517), went around towards Ward's,(PL8541) met Cocke(p22207) and Bankhead on the way and went, with them, to the Dr.'s; on entering found several of the Charlottesville ladies, had a great deal of talking, laughing &c. in which, altho' I Joined t'was with a very bad grace, as I unusually dull, and on the Breaking up of the pary escorted Miss Martha Winn(P47606) home, Skinker(P41455) accompanying Miss Sarah(P47597), and trudged up to College tired and weary, where we arrived about twelve. June 24th Wednesday 1835.Rose early, took a long walk; after Breakfast another to Charlottesville: on my return spent nearly the whole day in arranging my Books and clothes for my departure. In the evening went to Harrison's(P25843) room Where we read till Supper time, after returning from my evening
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walk, went to Prayer Meeting, and on that breaking up, to Mr.[101]
Mckennie's(PL8519) with Mrs. Carter(P47815) and the young ladles; found myself worse than ever, and could not keep a conversation up, even with Miss Willy;(P47059) spent the better part of the evening by Miss Lucy's(P47185) side, and attempted to discourse her, but, and after cursing the tenacity with which Alston and Wigfal(P32016) hung on in their tete-a-tetes, with Miss Mary(P47058) and Willy, at last made a move about twelve, as usual. Thursday June 25th 1835.Did not get to Breakfast 'till after the Bell had rung, which is something unusual for me; but as I have passed thro' my chief trials, and have now nothing of importance to attend to, this little indulgence may be allowed, especially after setting up so late last night. After Breakfast took a walk down to Charlottesville, with Pleasants(P26988); on again reaching my Dormitory took up an unread Mirror, but soon fell into a profound nap, which lasted till Dinner time; after Dinner went into the Jefferson Hall(PL8589) and took a Book out of the Library, but again fell into a deep doze from which I was awakened by Burwell(P33180) who came
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[to] enquire about some points in the Etymology, he having to stand the Latin Examination tomorrow, as indeed I do the Spanish. Next went down town, with Harrison(P25843), Bankhead(P31517) and Crump(P32248), to take a small julep icing; met several of the frolicking Southerners, and after getting several of our party pretty boozy, started for College; at first imagined my friend Harrison to be somewhat in that situation, but soon found he was not, and had a very confidential, and to me, very interesting conversation. And now having kept up this Diary till within a few days of the end of the Session, and with much more regularity than I had expected, I come to the end of this Book; and reviewing my conduct throughout that time, altho' I have not come up to what I ought and should have done, yet I do not look back upon[102]
it with the same regret that I do many of the years passed before entering here; it does seem to me that I have learnt much which may be useful to me in future life, but it equally appears that that knowledge is only to be gained by an equal decrease [of] quiet happiness, and still do I question whether Happiness is not better than the highest success.[103]
NOTESThe first number for each entry refers to the page, the second to the line number(s), and the italicized word or words are those being annotated. Thus, the first entry—1/2–3 Congress . . . French Bill — is the phrase "Congress would adjourn without issue on French Bill," lines 2–3, page 1.
March 10th 18351/ 2–3 Congress . . . French Bill
The French Bill concerned payments due to U. S. citizens by the French government and agreed to by the Treaty signed in Paris(PL8797) on July 4, 1831. France, however, had not made the payments and there was a heated debate in Congress(CB0089) as to how much pressure should be brought to bear. Adams introduced a bill resolving that (1) "the rights of the citizens of the United States to indemnity from the Government of France . . . ought, in no event, to be sacrificed, abandoned or impaired"; (2) that the President of the United States should reopen negotiations with France, if he felt honor bound to do so; and (3) "that no legislative measure of a hostile character or tendency towards the French nation, is necessary or expedient at this time." [Richmond Enquirer(CB0275). Vol. XXXI. no. 101, Tuesday, March 10, 1835], Rep. Archer of Virginia, believing that since national pride was involved it would be futile to expect payment from France, amended the bill to read that, since the U. S. expected payment from the French, Congress would "forbear, at the present time, to adopt any measures in relation to that subject." Archer's successful amendment, in effect, "shelved" the French Bill.
March 11th 18351/ 7 Mr. Pinckney of South Carolina
Henry Laurens Pinckney(P47573) (1794–1863), the son of Gov. Charles Pinckney of South Carolina(P4249) (1796–1798; 1806–1808), was a journalist and congressman from Charleston(PL4447). He founded and was the editor of the Charleston Mercury(CB0988) (1819–1834), served as a member of the South Carolina legislature(CB0352) (1816–1832), was a representative to Congress(CB0089) (1833– 1837), and became the mayor of Charleston (1832; 1839–1840). For the contents of his address at the University of Virginia, see "An Address Delivered Before the Bible Society of the University of Virginia, March 11th, 1835" (Richmond: T. W. White, 1835), 19 pp.
1/ 8 the Bible Society
Despite Jefferson's firm intention to establish a purely secular university, there was in the early years a certain amount of religious fervor on campus. This was partly in reaction to the widespread religious apathy of most students. In a letter to S. C. Royster (March 1, 1835), Francis S. Sampson(P35802), a student, commented that when
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he first arrived at the University there was no religious activity "of any character." Sampson matriculated in 1831–32 and by 1835 he could report that "... the prayer meeting . . . the stated preaching of the Gospel, the establishment of a Sabbath School, and a flourishing Bible-Society(CB0936), are blessings which God has granted since that time." [Letter, Manuscript Division, University of Virginia Library, p. 3]1/ 10 Mr. Tucker
George Tucker(P43619) (1775–1864) was the Professor of Moral Philosophy at the University. A William & Mary(CB0008) graduate, he was elected to the Virginia General Assembly(PCB0192) in 1815 and then served for three terms in the U. S. House of Representatives(CB0918) (1819—1825). In 1825 he was chosen as an original member of the Virginia faculty(CB0105), serving as a professor until his resignation in 1845. [EVENT: Curriculum:Moral Philosophy ] At Virginia, Tucker gave courses in ethics, metaphysics, logic, political economy, statistics, belles-lettres, rhetoric, and English composition. He also served as the first Chairman of the Faculty. A copious writer, he published political, economic, and educational essays, novels (The Valley of the Shenandoah, Voyage to the Moon), a two-volume biography of Jefferson, and other works. See: Harry Clemons, Notes on the Professors for Whom the University of Virginia Halls & Residence Houses are Named (Charlottesville, 1961), pp. 132–38; Phillip A. Bruce, History of the University of Virginia, 1819–1919, 5 volumes (New York, 1922); John S. Patton, Jefferson, Cabell and the University of Virginia
1/ 11 a singe-cat
According to Webster's New International Dictionary (2d edition, unabridged), a "singed cat" is one "with burnt fur, esp. as a type of that which is better than it appears." Thus, Tucker(P43619) suggests that Pinckney(P47573) is better than his "rather unprepossessing" figure would lead one to expect.
1/ 12 Mrs. Brockenbrough's
Mrs. L. Brockenbrough(P44061) rented lodging to students privately. In all probability, she was as Lucy Gray Brockenbrough, widow of Arthur Spicer Brockenbrough(P43627) (1780–1832), first proctor of the University of Virginia, and sister-in-law to William E. Brockenbrough(P47816) (1813–1850), author of A Virginia Gazeteer (1835). (See Bruce II: 205)
March 12th 18352/ 5 a white stone
"A symbol of something memorable, auspicious, or fortunate;—from the Roman custom of marking a dies faustus with a white stone." (Webster's)
2/ 5 Pleasants
Albert C. Pleasants(P26988) (1816–1852), Ellis's roommate, later became a physician in Richmond. [Schele DeVere, Students of the University of Virginia: A Semi-Centennial Catalogue (Baltimore, 1878); information on students is largely derived from DeVere and in future entries this source will be assumed and not cited]
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2/ 7–8 The old Madame . . . daily fare
Students were assigned to dormitories in the University, dormitories managed by six "hotel-keepers." These hotel-keepers were principally responsible for providing food to the students. In addition, they were expected to inspect student rooms occasionally. Because the monthly lodging charge could not exceed ten dollars per student, it was quite difficult to supply suitable table fare. Thus, student complaints about their food were frequent and, in most cases, justified. In fact, complaints became so widespread that shortly before Ellis wrote his diary, the Faculty devised a master-menu and ordered the hotel-keepers to adhere to it. (see Bruce, II: 233–34) Typical of student complaints concerning food and lodging is the following by J. W. Poindexter(P43513) in a letter dated Feb. 1, 1833 (Manuscript Division, UVa): "... I look forward to the time when I shall have finished here for it is a disagreeable place, We are under strict regulations and our fare is intolerable, We get very little to eat and that is of the most indifferent character, I am sure that it will excite your sympathy when I tell you that I have just eaten my small piece of sour bread and drunk my cup of coffee or more properly slops which is all I shall get to-night. We live in rooms scarcely large enough to contain a bed, table, and chair, We have to get up in the morning by day and eat breakfast by candle-light ..."
March 13th 18352/ 5 Kelly
Monroe Kelly(P30825), originally from Norfolk(PL4200), became a farmer in Fredericksburg, Virginia.(PL4252)
2/ 6 Miss Carter
Mary Carter(P47058), daughter of Dr. Charles Carter(P47574), who in 1820 built and lived at 802 E. Jefferson Street. [Mary Rawlings and W. E. Hemphill, "Dr. Charles Brown's Reminiscences of Early Albemarle." Magazine of Albemarle County History. VIII (1947–48): 607] Dr. Carter advertised his services as follows in the local newspaper: "The usual operations on the teeth, undertaken, by Dentists, will be performed by Charles Carter, M. D." [The Virginia Advocate, Vol. IV, no. 20 (Dec. 24, 1830)]
3/ 16 Alston, Johnson
Theodosius Alston(P30623) (1816–1836) was from Georgetown, S. C.(PL4837), and died at the University of Virginia a year after Ellis's diary was written. David W. Johnson(P26655) (b. 1815), from Columbia, S. C.(PL4610), became a farmer and county auditor in South Carolina, as well as serving the Confederate cause during tile Civil War as a Captain.
14th March 18353/ 1 when the bell rung
University ordinances required that a bell should be rung at dawn every day during the academic session. Students were expected to rise immediately, and by sunrise, rooms were to be in order. Janitors patrolled the dormitories to enforce this regulation. See Bruce, II: 212–16. As Bruce points out—and as Ellis so amply corrobates— the rule was flagrantly violated by numerous students and undermined
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the health of numerous others.3/ 2 Harrison
Gessner Harrison(P25515) (1807–1862) was a student at the University of Virginia when it first opened in 1825. He received his Medical degree in 1828 and also studied Greek under George Long(P43620), Professor of Ancient Languages. Long thought so highly of Harrison that when he (Long) returned to England, he recommeded Harrison as his successor, a recommendation that was accepted by the Visitors(CB0042). Thus, at age 21 Harrison found himself a professor at his alma mater. He served as Professor of Ancient Languages for thirty years until ill health forced him to resign in 1859. Dedicated and indefatiguable, Harrison spent many long and conscientious hours about his tasks.[EVENT: Course Reference:Ancient Languages ] He emphasized grammar in teaching Latin and Greek and was one of the first persons in the U.S. to employ methods of comparative grammar. Upon his resignation from the University, Harrison opened a classical school for boys, first in Albemarle County(PL5392), then in Nelson(PL5388) County. See: Bruce; Clemons, pp. 50–56; W. R. Woods, "Gessner Harrison: the Early Life and Teaching of an Albemarle Classicist," The Magazine of Albemarle County History, XIX (1960–61): 19–41.
3/ 19 Hobson
Richard B. Hobson(P22593) (b. 1813) was from Flat Rock, Powhatten County, Virginia(PL4528). In later life, he became a physician at Winterpock, Chesterfield County, Virginia(PL4346).
15th March 18354/ 4 the Society
The Jefferson(CB0011) Society, a debate society, was formed in July 1825. In 1832 the Society asked permission of the faculty to allow one orator to speak upon Founder's Day. Merritt Robinson(P23716) gave a speech in which he strongly favored emancipation of slaves, and these views upset the faculty. Thereafter, the faculty demanded that orators refrain from issues dealing with national or state policies, as well as from religious questions. This issue concerning orators was quite alive and unsettled by 1835 when Ellis wrote his diary. See Bruce, II: 355–59.
4/ 5 King of Alabama
William W. King(P43092) (b. 1813) from Montevallo, Alabama(PL7505), later received his M. A. from the University of Alabama(CB0013) and then became a lawyer in New Orleans(PL4173), eventually serving as Reporter for the Supreme Court of Louisiana(CB0393).
Sunday 16th March 18354/ 3 The Cruise of the Midge
A collection of sea stories by Michael Scott (1789–1835).
5/ 7–8 Consider . . . heathen religions
Ellis's rather secular view here of religion is not so surprising as at first it may seem. Certainly it is in keeping with Jefferson's
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firm conviction that higher education must be non-sectarian. Furthermore, the first half of the nineteenth century was an age of religious doubt and re-interpretation. Heathen religions—by which Ellis obviously refers to Hinduism and Buddhism, most notably—were avidly studied. One needs only note in this context that Strauss's The Life of Jesus was first published in 1835, the same year that Ellis expressed his doubts in this diary. This is significant in that Strauss was the first to suggest that Jesus need not be interpreted as purely divine or purely human, but rather might be seen as mythical. In this sense, note Ellis's statement (5/ 17–20) that "the many miracles contained in the Sacred Volume, are no more than allegories or similies which have their force more in their explanations than the events described."5/ 23 Llangollen
Llangollen(CB0934) was a school for boys founded and operated by John Lewis(P47572) from 1814 to 1832. Located in Spotsylvania County, Virginia(PL5046), Lewis taught math, English grammar, geography, history, composition, criticism, and Latin, as well as providing instruction in physical fitness and military drill (to a limited extent). Tuition was $25 per year and board was $75. The average yearly enrollment was 33 pupils. In 1832 the school was transferred to Llangollen, Kentucky(PL9247). A copy of a printed circular advertising the proposed school is revealing of Lewis's intentions (Oct. 11, 1811, Manuscript Division, UVa): he "PROPOSES to engage in the professional instruction of youth, at Belle-Air, in Spotsylvania County. The healthiness of the situation, and the exclusion from opportunities or incitements to dissipation, render this place very eligible . . ." See: Ethel M. Smith, "The Llangollen School for Boys—John Lewis, Teacher," n. p., Manuscript Division, UVa, undated.
Monday 16th March 18355/ 2 Thomas . . . James
Thomas Harding Ellis(P43568) (1814–1898), the eldest son of Charles(P44314) and Margaret Ellis(P46203), served honorably as a confederate officer in the Civil War, was briefly the Secretary of the U.S. Delegation to Mexico(PL8573), and became President of the James River and Kanawha Canal Co.(CB0752) He was noted as a prominent Richmond(PL5273) businessman, active in civic affairs and historical research. As a boy, he had been one of Edgar Allen Poe's(P42269) closest friends. An active alumnus of the University of Virginia, he had served as one of the first officers of the semi-official military company. He wrote A Memorandum of the Ellis Family (Richmond, 1849), an updated version of which serves as my primary source for this entry. James Nimmo Ellis(P46204) (1815–1839) was the second son of Charles and Margaret Ellis and died as a young man.
5/ 5 W. M. H. of Goochland.
William M. Harrison(P25843) (b. 1817), who studied modern languages and Natural Philosophy at Virginia, came from Fife's, Goochland County, Virginia(PL4579).
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Tuesday 17th March 18356/ 3 the resolution of the Visitors(CB0042)
This conflict between the students and the faculty is a direct outgrowth of the earlier confrontation between the Jefferson Society(CB0011) and the faculty(CB01015) (see note 4/ 4). The proctor (line 6) at this time was W. G. Pendleton(P43653).
Wednesday 18th March 18356/ 3 mechanics
a slang term adopted by the students to refer to Charlottesville blue collar workers, shopkeepers, and any other townspeople held in low esteem by the students, derived from the obsolete word meaning "rude; common; vulgar; base." [Webster's].
6/ 5 Miss M. C.. . . . Madame Gray's
"Miss M. C." refers to Mary Carter(P47058). Mrs. John Gray,(P43865) Arthur S. Brockenbrough's(P43627) sister, was the first woman appointed hotel-keeper at the University, succeeding her husband in 1827. As a hotel-keeper John Gray(P44367) was hardly suitable, drinking and revelling with students, and he was dismissed in December, 1826. Soon afterwards, he separated from his wife and moved to Florida(PL4407). Mrs. Gray, however, became one of the more forceful and colorful of all hotel-keepers. She was described by Leiper Patterson(P32066) as "an elegant and aristocratic lady, who always wore a white turban after the fashion of the famous Dolly Madison." [Bruce, II: 228]
Thursday 19th March 18356–7/ 3–4 Hill of Portsmouth
John T. Hill(P24285) (b. 1813) was awarded a Bachelor of Law degree by the University of Virginia and became Treasurer of the S. & R. Railroad Company(CB0989) in Portsmouth, Virginia(PL4269).
7/ 22 Middleton's life of Cicero
The Life of M. Tullius Cicero by Conyers Middleton (1683–1750), an English clergyman, rationalistic theologian, and controversial figure, who served as the librarian at Cambridge, beginning in 1721.
20th March 1835. Friday8/ 4 Mrs. Cochran's . . . Dr. L. Cabell
Mrs. John Cochran(P47596), originally from Augusta County(PL4289), was an esteemed resident of Charlottesville, and Dr. Cabell was related to Joseph Cabell(P43614) (see note 44/ 19).
8/ 8 Perrow's Hotel
Captain Daniel Perrow(P44168), formerly the proprietor of the tavern at Rockfish Gap, succeeded J. N. Rose(P43866) as a University hotel-keeper in 1834. He lost his position in July 1835. [see Bruce, II: 229]
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8/ 9 Miss Higgenbottams, and the Miss Conways
The Miss Higgenbottams are a local belle. Sarah(P47597) (b. 1810) and Elizabeth Fitzhugh(P47197) (1813–1883) Conway were two of the twelve children of Edwin Conway(P43888) (1785–1844), one of the University hotel-keepers, and Mary Jackson Dade Conway(P44225) (b. 1806). Conway was a jovial man who enjoyed drinking and playing cards with students, a practice hardly endearing to the Rector. His drinking became so notorious that in order to keep his hotel he was forced to join the Temperance Society in 1837. Sometime after that, he was forced to resign and he and his family moved to Kentucky. Elizabeth—who appears quite frequently in the Ellis diary as "Bet" Conway—married the Hon. Joseph Dunbar Shields(P27155) of Mississippi(PL4259) at the University in 1841. See H. E. Hayden, Virginia Genealogies (Washington, 1931), pp. 280–82. Bruce, II: 226. The two Higginbottams were daughters of David Higginbottam.
8/ 11 Miss Tutt
Miss Virginia Tutt(P47246), a small, older woman, was a member of the Charlottesville "aristocracy."
8/ 13 Miss Martha Coiners
Concerning Miss Coiners, I know nothing.
21st March Saturday 18359/ 8–10 Bouldin . . . Stanard
Thomas T. Bouldin, Jr.(P39401) (b. 1813). received his M. A. from Virginia in 1837 and became a teacher, lawyer, and judge, residing at Drake's Branch, Charlotte County, Virgnia(PL5409). George W. Goode(P40790) (b. 1811), a native of Richmond(PL5273), received his Bachelor of Law degree from the University in 1835. Lawson M. Burfoot(P21804) (b. 1816), from Chesterfield County, Virginia(PL4346), was a third year law student at Virginia in 1835. John C. Burrus(P26328) (b. 1814), also a third year law student, later be came both a planter and a judge in the vicinity of Huntsville, Alabama(PL4317). Robert C. Stanard(P30132) (1814–1837) was a student at the University for five years, receiving both a Bachelor of Law degree and a Master of Arts. During his brief life he became a successful lawyer in Richmond and a member of the Virginia Legislature(CB0182).
9/ 15 Ogden
Octavius Nash Ogden(P25432) (b. 1817) was from Baton Rouge, Louisiana(PL4913). He became a lawyer and member of the Louisiana Legislature, dying in New Orleans.
22nd March, Sunday 183510/ 6 Nicholes Mr Cobbs
Rev. N. H. Cobbs(P47598) succeeded Rev. Hammet(P44070) (see note for April 12th, 27/ 4–5) as University chaplain in May 1834 and served for the customary one year term. young clergyman, he came to the University from a small, rural parish at considerable expense to himself. Sampson(P35802) (op. cit.) refers to Cobbs as follows: "In the merciful Omniscence of God, at all times our Benefactor and our Friend, we have been blessed with an excellent and belovd Minister, the Rev.
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N. H. Cobbs of the Episcopal Church to preach to us, during the present session. . . . I have never known a Minister more approvd and acceptable amongst his people than Mr. Cobbs is." See: Patton, p. 370; Bruce, II: 375.10/ 9 Trigg and Cary
Lleburn H. Trigg(P43554) (b. 1812) was a second year law student from Abingdon, Virginia(PL4340), while Archibald Cary(P41338) (1815–1854) was a fourth year student from Fluvanna County(PL5384), who later became a lawyer and editor in Cumberland, Maryland(PL4918). DeVere lists 1825 as Cary's birthdate, an obvious mistake, since that would have made him six years old when he first matriculated at Virginia in 1831.
23rd March Monday 183510/ 1 Gess and old Bonny
"Gess" is the nickname applied by Ellis to Gessner Harrison(P25515). "Old Bonny" is the nickname for Charles Bonnycastle(P43623) (1792–1840). Professor of Natural Philosophy (1825–1827) and Professor of Math (1827–1840) at the University. Born in Woolrich, England(PL9248), Bonnycastle's father was a professor at the Royal Military Academy. Bonnycastle followed his father's scholastic bent and soon became an eminent scholar in mathematics. He was recruited for Virginia by Francis Walker Gilmer(P31348) and, at Virginia, [EVENT: Curriculum:Mathematics ] he served as an exemplary math instructor, introducing, among other things, the use of the ratio method of the trigonometrical functions. A bachelor when he arrived, he soon married Ann Mason Tutt(P47082) of Loudoun County and lived with her on the Lawn(PL8427) in Pavilion VIII. In addition, he was Chairman of the Faculty during the session in which Ellis composed his diary. See: Bruce; Clemons, pp. 7–12; Paul B. Barringer, ed., et al., University of Virginia, Its History, Influence, Equipment and Characteristics (New York, 1904), Vol. I, pp. 346–47.
10/ 4 corned . . . Davis
"Corned" is a slang term for being intoxicated. John A. G. Davis(P33195) (1802–1840) was the Professor of Law at the University from 1830 until his death, in 1840. He was born in Middlesex County, Virginia.(PL5768), and attended William & Mary(CB0008) (1819–1820) and Virginia during its first session (1825). After operating a successful law practice in Albemarle County, he succeeded John T. Lomax(P43630) as the Professor of Law. He became a valuable asset to the University, later being described by one of his former pupils as follows: "To dignity of character, he happily united a certain freedom and familiarity of manner which made him as acceptable to the public as he was valuable to the University." /Bruce, II; 170–717 [EVENT: Student Misconduct:Guns ] In 1840 he was tragically assisinated by a student during a disturbance, an event which climaxed the early years of student unrest at the University. For a fuller account of this event, see Bruce. II: 309–11.
10/ 5: Gray
The "Gray" referred to here is probably Charles E. Gray(P47576) (1818–1863), a Charlottesville native who died during the Civil War, although he might have been James H. Gray(P24041) (b. 1816) of Richmond(PL5273), who later became a tobacco and flour merchant in New York City(PL4217).
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10/ 6 Newton
Thomas Newton, Jr.(P39218), was born in Norfolk, Virginia(PL4200), on February 2, 1816, the eldest son of George and Courtenaye Newton. He studied medicine at Virginia and received his M. D. from the Pennsylvania Medical College at Philadelphia(CB0057) in 1837. After a two year continental tour, he practiced medicine among the poor in Norfolk. He entered military service with the C. S. A.(CB0414) in April, 1861, serving as General Gwynn's aide-de-camp. When General Gwynn was removed, Newton was retired from active service, which prompted him to enlist as a private in March, 1862. He was wounded at the second battle of Manassas and died on March 13, 1862. [John L. Johnson. University Memorial: Biographical Sketches of Alumni of the University of Virginia Who Fell in the Confederate War (Baltimore, 1871), pp. 279–82]
March 24th Tuesday 183511/ 1 Dr. Smith
John Smith(P43949) was hired as "janitor" in 1828 and served in that post until his death in 1861. He was always addressed as "Doctor," "a title derived from some slim pretentions to knowledge of medicine . . . a son of Professor Davis . . . declares that he was, in reality, a quack,—not consciously or dishonestly so in intention, but by the purely empirical character of his medical advice . . . He had soon won the respect of all, and in his blue broad-cloth coat, adorned with bright brass buttons, and with a wide-brimmed white felt hat resting on his head, he must have presented a very interesting, if not imposing, appearance, as he walked, with great dignity, down the arcades to inform some delinquent student, with all the solemn authority of an English beadle, that his presence was sternly desired in the chairman's office." [Bruce; II: 57] He was persistent in his efforts to insure that all students arose at the first bell in the morning and would visit dormitories at irregular hours to surprise culprits still asleep. Often successful in this, "sometimes the table was turned on the Doctor by placing a basin of water above the door, which discharged its full contents on his head and shoulders as soon as he seized the knob and entered the room." [Bruce, II: 213]
11/ 2–3 The old Lady
Mrs. Gray(P43865), who was hotel-keeper for the dormitory in which Ellis lodged.
11/ 4 the Bridge
Natural Bridge(PL6418), located 14 miles south of Lexington, Virginia, in Rockbridge County(PL5188), and described by some as one of the "seven natural wonders of the world."
11/ 5 Quiz
"A hoax; a practical joke; a jest; a bit of banter." [Webster's]
11/ 6–7 Peter Carr . . . Miss Bet
Peter Carr(P34852) (1816–1858), son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Carr of Albemarle County(PL5392), received his Bachelor of Law degree from the University in 1839. He became a farmer, lawyer, and member of the Missouri Senate(CB0463), moving to that State and settling in Prairieville, Pike County.(PL6547) "Miss Bet" is Betty Conway(P47197) (see note, 8/ 9).
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11/ 11 Trigg . . . two months
The University imposed four different types of punishment upon offenders — reprimand, suspension, dismissal, and expulsion. A suspended student was required to return home for a definite period or to be "rusticated" in one of the private taverns of Albemarle County(PL5392). Dismissal was for the duration of the year, and expulsion was permanent. Kelly(P30825), then, was suspended for two months.
11/ 13 "vin"
French word for "wine."
March 25th 1835 Wednesday11/ 4–5 Subscribers . . . boarders
[EVENT: Student Conduct:Celebrations ] Balls given by the University "hotels" began as early as 1828, and after this year the balls staged by each "hotel" became a yearly social occasion. In 1835 the fee for attending these balls was two dollars. [EVENT: Student Misconduct:Drinking ] Balls were also given in Charlottesville hotels—such as the Midway(PL8546), the Central(PL8590), or Fitch's(PL8536)—but these were frowned upon by the faculty due to the quantities of alcohol often consumed.
11/ 6 Wilson
Samuel Mazyck Wilson(P35193) of Charleston(PL4447), S. C., became a lawyer and, later, President of the Seaboard & Roanoke Railroad(CB0989). He made his home in Portsmouth, Virginia(PL4269).
11/ 9 Mr. Gretter
David B. Gretter(P24783) (b. 1818) of Richmond, Virginia(PL5273).
March 26th 1835 Thursday12/ 1 old Blaet
Nickname for Professor George Walter Blaetterman(P45632) (1788–1850), Professor of Modern Languages at the University. Of German descent, Blaetterman was recruited in England(PL6183) by Gilmer(P31348) and came to Virginia in 1825. [EVENT: Curriculum:Modern Languages ] He was a linguist of some talent, as is evident from the following announcement of his courses in the 1837–38 catalog: "The languages taught in this School, are the French, Spanish, Italian, German and Alglo-Saxon; and if desired, will also be taught, the Danish, Swedish, Hollandish and Portuguese languages." His eccentricity, however, and extreme rudeness rendered him a very unpopular figure on campus. Professor Tucker(P43619) once asked Blaetterman for a precise definition of the word "rigmarole." Blaetterman replied: "I don't know whether I can give you the exact meaning of the word, but if one will go to hear one or two of your lectures, he will have a good idea of its meaning." [EVENT: Student Misconduct:Riot ] On another occasion in March, 1836, scores of students threw showers of stones at the windows of the drawing room to his pavilion after a particularly disorderly lecture. In 1838 a section of his students submitted to the faculty a formal petition for allegedly beating his wife and the Board of Visitors(CB0042) unanimously voted to dismiss him. He retired to a farm in Albemarle County(PL5392) and in 1850 suffered a stroke of apoplexy while walking in the snow along a country road. [see Bruce, II: 90–95; 157–60]
[113]
March 28th Saturday 183512–13/ 4–9 George . . . Ned Howard's . . . Juliet Nassie, and Fred Brown's . . . the Compiler
Friends of Ellis's in Richmond(PL5273). Juliet Massie(P47586) may have been the daughter of William Massie (b. 1789), although it is equally possible that she was related to Henry Massie (b. 1816) who lived near Charlottesville. The Compiler(CB0864) was a Richmond newspaper from 1813–1853. "George" is George Rawlings(P47238), a close friend of charles Ellis.
March 30th Monday 183514/ 4 Keller's
A confectionary owned and operated by John L. Keller(P44075). By trade a baker, Keller was spoken of as an "honest and good-hearted man" by Alexander Garrett(P43628), yet his confectionary(PL8528) was held in low esteem by the faculty and administration of the University. [EVENT: Student Misconduct:Drinking ] This was primarily due to the alcohol sold by Keller. As early as 1830 students were warned to stay away from Keller's. In 1834 noisy champagne parties assembled on the premises, wine, whiskey, and brandy mixed with honey were served, and Dr. Bonnycastle(P43623) became so alarmed that he posted a watchman near the establishment and instructed him to report the name of every student frequenting the premises. This, however, had little effect, and soon Keller found himself threatened with indictment by the Grand Jury. He then declared that for the remainder of the 1834–35 session he would refrain from selling alcohol and only sell soda-water, ice-cream, and sweetmeats to students. By 1836 his business was so low that he leased the Midway Hotel(PL8546) and retired from the immediate vicinity of the University, [see Bruce, II: 285–87]
14/ 7 Jane
Jane Shelton Ellis(P47352) (1820–1901), Charles's sister, and fifth child of Charles(P44314) and Margaret(P46203).
15/ 23 en Somnus hie
"En "Somnus" is Latin for "sleep," and "hie" means "to hasten." [Webster's]
16/ 57–59 the grave . . . the states
Jefferson(P43611) expressly commanded that he have only a simple tombstone and that his funeral and burial not be paid for out of public funds.
March 31st 1835 Tuesday16/ 3 Burwell
Benjamin L. Burwell(P33180) (b. 1817) of Manchester, Virginia(PL4669).
16/ 3–4 Marshal's . . . Watt's
Isaac Marshal(P44142) operated a shoe store(PL9219) in Charlottesville, and Ebenezer Watt(P47563), besides selling books, offered in his shop(PL8520) such diverse items as tobacco, boots, soap, and perfume (as evidenced from his advertisements in The Virginia Advocate(P0990)). For more information concerning Charlottesville merchants of the time, see: Bruce, II: 255–57; Newton B. Jones, "Charlottesville, Albemarle County, Virginia, 1819–1860," PhD diss., UVa (1950).
[114]
16/ 6 Crump
Either Robert(P32248) (b. 1817) or Beverly P. Crump(P25740) (b. 1810) of Richmond(P5273).
April 1st Wednesday 183517/ 3 New York Mirror
The New York Mirror(CB0868) was a newspaper devoted to literature, fine arts, and society, Founded in 1823 by George P. Morris and Samuel Woodworth as "New York Mirror and Ladies Literary Gazette," by the 1840's it was one of the most popular periodicals in America. In 1842 Morris and Nathaniel P. Willis changed the name to the New Mirror. For the next twenty years it operated under different names, including the Evening Mirror and the Farm Journal. For more information see note for the May 11th entry.
17/ 4 Miss Gregory(P47578)
A visitor from Fredericksburg, Virginia(PL4252) (see p. 9).
17/ 6 Jimmie
James Nimmo Ellis(P46204). [see note 5/ 2, p. 107]
17/ 11 Patterson's Lecture on Electricity
Robert Maskell Patterson(P43634) (1787–1854) served as Professor of Natural Philosophy at Virginia from 1828–1835. Born in Philadelphia(PL4362), his father was a professor at the University of Pennsylvania(CB0057). Patterson graduated from Pennsylvania in 1804 with a Master of Arts degree and received his M. D. in 1808. [EVENT: Curriculum:Natural Philosophy ] He continued his study of the natural sciences in Europe and was then appointed Professor of Natural Philosophy and Chemistry at Pennsylvania in 1814. When Dr. Bonnycastle(P43623) transferred from Natural Philosophy to Math, Patterson was hired by Virginia. While at Virginia, he was noted for his extreme politeness and the frequent parties held at his house. He also introduced many new branches of sciences to his students, including "Electricity." In 1835 he resigned his position to accept Directorship of the U. S. Mint(CB0991) in Philadelphia, [see Bruce, II: 163–64; Barringer]
17/ 14–15 Miss Brown . . . Miss Tucker
Miss Brown was probably the daughter of Dr. Charles Brown (1783–1870) and Mrs. Mary Brown (1790–1863). The Miss Brown's from Lynchburg were relatives. Miss Tucker(P47593) was the daughter of Judge Henry St. George Tucker(P43676) (1780–1848), a William & Mary(CB0008) graduate, former soldier (1812), U. S. congressman(CB0089) (1815–1819), State senator(CB0241) (1819–1823), and Virginia State Chancellor (1823–1831). From 1831–1841 he was President Judge of the Virginia Court of Appeals(CB0237) and in 1841 he became Professor of Law at Virginia, a position he held for four years. He was also Alfred MaGill's(P43655) (Professor of Medicine) father-in-law.
18/ 31–33 there fore . . . heretofore
Like many people, Ellis continually made resolutions which he found difficulty in keeping. In a letter to Ellis from his sister Elizabeth(P47314) Philadelphia(PL4362), dated September 24, 1834 (Manuscript Division, UVa), she comments that she is "delighted to find that you are resolved upon studying and distinguishing yourself [at the University]."
[115]
April 2nd Thursday 183518/ 8 Jim Carter's
A boyhood friend of Ellis's. For a further account of Carter(P47627), see the entry for Tuesday, June 9th (pp. 87–88). At this time Carter was a plebe at West Point.
18/ 12 the Peaks of Ottor
Located in Bedford County(PL4278) along what is today the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Peaks of Otter(PL9215) is a well-known resort spot.
18/ 14–15 Massinger's play . . . debts"
Phillip Massinger (1583–1640) was an Elizabethan and Jacobean dramatist. One of the most prolific dramatists of his age, his name either as author, collaborator, or reviser appears on nearly sixty plays. "A New Way to Pay Old Debts" first appeared in 1621.
18/ 15–16 the chief part . . . 7,000 volumes
As provided by Jefferson(P43611), the largest number of books in the library dealt with either law or ancient languages. There were also books on such subjects as the natural sciences, mathematics, ethics, history, architecture, and rhetoric—to name just a few. Books for "light" reading were not accepted into the library. During the 1834–35 session William H. Brockenbrough(P25772) (see note 1/ 2, p. 104) served as the Librarian. He proved so incompetent, however, that he was forced to resign in July 1835. AS was the case with most university libraries in America, regulations were strict, and only twenty students were permitted inside on any given day. Furthermore, the library was only open during the session between the hours of three and five until May 1st, when the time was pushed forward to four to six. [seeBruce, II: 185–205]
18/ 22 Lewis's
Charles S. Lewis(P24108) (1818–1873) of Lawrenceville, Virginia(PL7422), received his M. D. from Virginia and practiced medicine in Brunswick County.(PL4702)
19/ 23 a couple of Bottles
Although drinking in the dormitories was expressly forbidden by the ordinances and faculty members were constantly on the look-out for a tell-tale bottle, students flagrantly violated the regulations and enjoyed rowdy drinking-parties in their rooms, [see Bruce, II: 279–82]
19/ 24 Leecock
Richard W. Leecock(P33034) was born in Norfolk, Virginia(PL4200) in 1813 and received his Medical Degree from Virginia. After graduation he became a surgeon in the U. S. Navy(CB0245) but committed suicide on board ship at Brooklyn(PL4425) on March 31, 1843.
April 3rd Friday 183519/ 6–7 Mr & Mrs. McKennie
Clement P. McKennie(P44094) was a Charlottesville bookseller and publisher of the Central Gazette(PCB0992).
19/ 8 Thomas
Thomas H. Ellis, Charles's(P43568) eldest brother.
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19/ 12–13 Jones, Trueheart, and Woods
There were three students named Jones at the University during the 1834– 35 session. Beverley Jones(P33263) (b. 1817). from Mecklenburg County, Virginia,(PL7273) received his M. A. from the University, while Fayette Jones(P36165) (b. 1817) of Hampton, Virginia(PL4290), received his Bachelor of Law in 1837. Daniel Jones(P42903) (b. 1817), from Williamsburg(PL4824), became a farmer and Burnt ordinary in James City County, Virginia(PL8381). George W. Trueheart(P27886) (b. 1810) was raised in Hanover County, Virginia(PL4934), and after leaving the University in 1839, he moved to Memphis, Tennessee.(PL4180) John Rodes Woods(P43808) (b. 1815) of Albemarle County(PL5392) received his M. D. from the University, became both a doctor and farmer at Ivy Depot(PL4625), and in later life was elected to the Board of Visitors(CB0042) of the University of Virginia.
April 4th 1835, Saturday19/ 3 Milton
Many of the supplies shipped into Charlottesville from Richmond(PL5273) were sent by barge to Milton(PL9104) and then shipped overland.
20/ 4 the candidates for the County
Campaigning for the Virginia legislature(CB0182) and Congress(CB0089) was in full swing at this time. Some of the candidates included Joseph Cabell(P43614), Col. Sam Carr, Col. Gordon, nes Garland, Cocke, and Brown, [Richmond Enquirer, Vol. 31, no. 118 (May 5, 1835)]
20/ 9 Jeffrey . . . Bob Hill
Schoolmates of Ellis's at Llangollen. Robert Hill(P47628) is mentioned in a copy of students attending, but the only "Jeffrey" I can find is one Richard Jeffery(P35241) [Smith, op. cit.]
20/ 18 West Point
The United States Military Academy at West Point, New York(CB0187), was founded in 1802 and expanded by Congressional Act in 1812. Southernrs, of course, hardly liked the idea of the military academy being located in the North.
20/ 19 Wigfall
Louis T. Wigfall(P32016) (1816–1873) was born in Edgefield Distric, South Carolina(PL4370) and educated in private schools in that State. After serving as a volunteer in the Florida Indian wars, he attended the University of Virginia, studying law. He then moved to Marshall, Texas(PL9249), was elected a member of the Texas legislature(CB0828) in 1849, and served in the State Senate(CB0829) from 1857–1860. In 1860 he was elected a U. S. Senator,(CB0298) but he soon found himself on General Beauregard's(P47372) staff at Fort Sumter(PL9171). He rose to the rank of Brigadier General in the confederate cause but resigned his commission in 1862 and was elected a Senator of the Confederate states. After the war he lived briefly in England(PL6183) and Baltimore(PL4215) and died while visiting Texas, [see: DeVere; Barringer]
20/ 21–22 S. Carolina's course in 1832
The 1828 "tariff of abominations," charging higher duties on raw materials than on manufactures, caused a turmoil in South Carolina(PL4249). Many citizens considered secession, and John C. Calhoun(P47817) produced a new version of state rights in a document called the South Carolina Exposition, approved in 1828 by the South Carolina legislature(CB0943). Basically, Calhoun asserted that the Federal Constitution was a compact between states, and states retained sovereignty, giving them the right to determine whether a
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federal act is constitutional or not. According to Calhoun, constitu- tional authority exceeds state sovereignty only in the case of an interpretative federal amendment, adopted by three-fourths of all states. The tariff was not repealed, and South Carolina's relations with the federal government grew worse. In 1849 it nearly seceded, and during the Civil War it was the first state to withdraw from the Union. [see Samuel Eliot Morison and Henry Steele Commager, The Growth of the American Republic, vol. I (New York, 1962), pp. 474–77], Nullification, incidentally, is synonomous with Calhoun's "Exposition." April 5th Sunday, 183520/ 1–2 Scot's novel, "Bride of Lammermoor"
The Bride of Lammermoor by Sir Walter Scott (1771–1832) was first published in 1819 and chronicles the turbulent events in Scotland at the turn of the eighteenth century.
April 6th Monday 183521/ 4 Rives
William Cabell Rives(P43635) (1793–1868) was born in Nelson County(PL5388) and attended both Hampden-Sydney College(CB0055) and William & Mary(CB0008). Later he studied law under Jefferson(P43611) and was soon elected to the Virginia House of Delegates(CB0367), first from Nelson County and then from Albemarle County(PL5392). He was a strong supporter of the Bill authorizing the University of Virginia. By the 1830's and 40's he was an eminent Whig leader, serving as a member of the House of Representatives. a U.S. Senator(CB0298), and twice as the Minister to France(PL8588). He was married to the former Miss Judith Page Walker(P47629) and lived at "Castle Hill."(PL9027) [see Barringer, I: 329–30]
21/ 11 the whig candidates were elected
Since Rives was a Whig, I am uncertain of Ellis's accuracy here.
21/ 14 Miss Mary
Mary Carter(P47058) (see note 2/ 6, p. 105).
21/ 17 Vowles'
A popular tavern(PL8552) in Charlottesville, owned and operated by John Vowles(P43886) who was also the University carpenter in the early 1830's.
21/ 22 Mrs. Southall
Wife of Valentine W. Southall(P44082), one of the more prominent citizens of Charlottesville.
21/ 24 Galts
I presume that Ellis is referring here to two members of the Galt family (from Richmond(PL5273))—a family spread widely throughout Virginia in the first half of the nineteenth century.
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April Tuesday 7th 183522/ 4 Rawlings
George Rawlings(P47238), a boyhood friend of Charles Ellis.
22/ 20 C[a]ptain Partridge
Captain Alden Partridge(P43952) of Vermont (1785–1854) was secured by the University to instruct the military company. However, his pupils were volunteers and he had to look to them for whatever pay he hoped to receive, a practice which caused him to stay at the University for only one session. If one looks at Partridge's class list (Manuscript Division, UVa), he sees that there were 67 students enrolled, including Ellis, Alston(P30623), Burfoot(P21804), Stanard(P30132), Harrison(P25843), Trigg(P43554), and Wigfall(P32016).
April Wednesday 8th 183523/ 15 McDowell, the Jackson leader
James McDowell(P47630) (1795–185l) was born in Rockbridge County(PL4376) and graduated from Princeton(CB0024) in 1810. He began his first term in the Virginia legislature(CB0182) in 1831 and lost the election for U. S. Senator(CB0298) in 1833 to John Tyler. However, he served in the House of Representatives from 1846– 1851 and was Governor of Virginia from 1843–1846. Concerning his elec- tion in 1835 (which McDowell lost), the following two excerpts from the Richmond Enquirer(CB0275) are of interest: (Thursday, March 12th) "Every effort is to be made by the Whigs to put down Mr. McDowell—He stands too much in their way. He is decidedly one of the first orators whom Virginia has seen in her public councils for several years. His enlarged views of state politics, qualify him to render the most substantial services to the Commonwealth . . ."; (Tuesday, April 14th) "Among our losses is that of the eloquent and accomplished McDowell of Rockbridge . . . such a man . . . cannot long be kept down." McDowell lost the election to a Mr. Dorman.
23/ 19 Miss Lucy
Lucy Carter(P47185), Mary's(P47058) sister.
23/ 21–22 Miss Timberlake's
Daughters of William Timberlake(P47186), a Charlottesville merchant. "Her" probably refers to Miss Willy Timberlake(P47059). The other daughter was Sarah(P47006).
23/ 24 Miss Nanny Bierne's wedding
A great neice of Mrs. Harriet Gray Sheldon Long(P47631) (Mr. Gray's(P44376) daughter and Professor George Long's(P43620) wife).
23/ 25–26 Magill and Leiper Patterson
Augustine S. Magill(P30211) (b. 1811) from Winchester, Virginia(PL4267), received an M. A. from the University and became a teacher and lawyer, dying in Louisiana(PL4231). His brother, Buckner(P47632) (b. 1816), matriculated at Virginia in 1835. Possibly the family was related to Alfred T. MaGill(P43655). Professor of Medicine at Virginia in 1835. Thomas Leiper Patterson(P32066) (1816–1905) was the son of Dr. Patterson(P43634), Professor of Natural Philosophy (see note 17/11, p. 114), and a student at the University. In later life he became a farmer and civil engineer in Cumberland, Maryland(PL4918).
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23/ 28 Dr. Patterson . . . situation here
As we have seen, Dr. Patterson(P43634) did resign his position to become Director of the U. S. Mint(CB0991). He was suceeded by a distinguished scientist from William & Mary,(CB0008) William B. Rogers(P43658) 1804–1882).
23/ 30–31 Dr. Cocke's . . . Dr. Dunglison
Dr. Charles Cocke received his M. D. from the University of Pennsylvania at Philadelphia(CB0057) in 1806 and, at the time Ellis wrote his diary, Dr. Cocke was Professor of the Institutes of Medicine in the Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia(CB0193). Robley Dunglison(P43624) (1798–1869) had been Professor of Medicine at the University of Virginia from its founding in 1825 to 1833. Born in Keswick, England(PL9251), he received his M. D. in 1819 in London(PL4698). Besides practicing medicine, he had edited the London Medical Repository and the Medical Intelligencer. He was recruited by Gilmer(P31348) in 1825 and at Virginia he was held in such high esteem that Jefferson(P43611) employed him as the former President's private physician. Dunglison, however, was not fond of Charlottesville, complaining that the climate was not conducive to is wife's health, and he resigned his position in 1833 to accept a similar one at the University of Maryland(CB0373) in Baltimore(PL4215). It was Dunglison, and not Patterson, who secured Dr. Cocke's position in Philadelphia (1836) and he served there until his death in 1869. Besides being a highly respected teacher, Dunglison was an eminent scholar and writer, publishing humorous articles, essays, and books, the most famous being his Human Physiology, written at Virginia and published in 1832, a book which for any years was the standard reference work of its type in America. [see Barringer; Bruce]
April 9th Thursday 183524/ 8 the Miss Leipers
The Leiper family was related to the Pattersons through Dr. Patterson's(P43634) wife. There were three Miss Leiper's in Charlottesville at the time. Miss Ann Gray Leiper(P47639), sister of Mrs. Patterson(P47633), was an older lady who looked out for her neice, Elizabeth Leiper(P47618), (whose father had died and whose mother was remarried) who boarded with Mrs. Minor.(P44877) A younger Miss Ann Leiper(P47613) (b. 1815?) lived in and later married a Mr. George Gray Thomas. [from correspondence, Manuscript Division. UVa] The younger Ann Lieper was visiting Elizabeth, who attended school in Charlottesville.
April Friday 10th 183524/ 5–6 Miss Mary McKenzie(P47634) and Anne Triplett(P47603)
Local Charlottesville belles.
24/ 7 Lizzy
Elizabeth Thorowgood Ellis(P47314), Charles's sister, was born in 1818 and died in 1900. At the time this diary was written, she was attending school in Philadelphia(PL4362).
24/ 9–12 Dubose . . . DeWitt . . . Miss Mary Porteaux
Samuel Dubose(P38941) (1817–1849) was a student from Fairfield District, South Carolina(P9329), who became a planter in later life. I know nothing other than what Ellis mentions about DeWitt, the Engineer. Miss Mary Porteaux(P47635)
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was a Richmond(PL5273) belle to whom Ellis's elder brother, Thomas(P43568), had been quite attached. She was visiting the University at this time.25/ 18 Caroline Lambert's . . . Marshal
Marshael?
April 11th 1835. Saturday25/ 3 Prices
Henry Price(P44141), a native Englishman, was a Charlottesville tailor who enjoyed a large business with students.
25/ 9 Mills
Charles S. Mills(P24284) (b. 1812) received a M. D. from Virginia and returned to his hometown, Richmond(PL5273), to practice medicine.
25/ 10–11 Miss Ward . . . Miss Lane . . . Mrs. Kelly
Miss Ward(P43909), daughter of Col. Ward(P43873) (proprietor of a local hotel and, after July, 1835, one of the University hotel-keepers). and Miss Lane(P47636) were Charlottesville belles. Mary E. Kelly(P47592) (1785–1863) rented rooms to young ladies in Charlottesville. Mary Ward, Miss Lane, and Lucy Carter(P47185) (Mary Carter's(P47058) younger sister) were all schoolmates together.
25/ 16 Mud Castle
[?] The Delavan Hotel(P9326), built by General Cocke near Union Station in Charlottesville, was popularly called "Mudwall," because of the hue of Albemarle clay mixed in with the stucco walls, [see Woods' History of Albemarle County] "Mud Castle" may have been another name for the Delavan.
26/ 26 Munford
Robert Munford(P39037) (1817–1843) received his M. D. from Virginia and then secured a position with the Department of Anatomy at the Medical College of Virginia in Richmond(CB0262). He died in Havana, Cuba.
26/ 43–44 Barton Morris' . . . Warwick
Barton W. Morris(P22431) (1818–1864), from Caroline County, Virginia(PL4522), received his M. D. from the University of Pennsylvania at Philadelphia(CB0057) and then returned home to practice medicine. Jacob Warwick(P32729) (b. 1816), after studying at Virginia, returned to his home, Greenfield, in Nelson County, Virginia(PL5388), and became a farmer. As will be remembered, the atmosphere at the University among many students was lawless, and it was not uncommon for a student to carry a stick, pistol, dirk, bowie knife, or cowhide upon his person. Revealing is the comment of a student summoned before the faculty in 1838 for carrying a concealed bowie knife. The student explained that it was necessary to take precautions against all contingencies. When asked what constituted a contingency, the student said, "If a man insults me and refuses to give me honorable satisfaction." [Bruce, II: 295]
[121]
April 12th Sunday 183527/ 4–5 Mr. Hamet
The Reverend William Hammett(P44070), a Methodist Minister, had preceded Rev. Cobbs(P47598) as University chaplain (1833–1834). According to University regulations, a chaplain could serve for only one year so that in 1835 Hammett preached in Charlottesville. In later life, Hammett was elected to the U. S. House of Representatives.(CB0918)
April 13th Monday 183527/ 5–6 Miss Gordon . . . Peter Mirror
Miss Hannah Gordon(P47191) was a Charlottesville belle, possibly a relation to William F. Gordon(P47637), a prominent citizen and friend of Jefferson(P43611). Peter Mirror(P47638) was a Charlottesville resident.
28/ 8 the Jefferson Guard
The Jefferson Guard(CB0940), commanded by Col. Alexander Rives(P47821), was the militia company for Charlottesville and was on display for many public occasions.
28/ 14 Robert Davis
Robert J. Davis(P23020) (b. 1815), after attending the University, returned to his hometown of Lynchburg, Virginia(PL4371), where he practiced law.
28/ 20 Cassimeer
"A medium weight woolen cloth of soft texture." [Webster's]
28/ 25 Mary Ella Chapman
Mary Ella Chapman(P47602), from Richmond(PL5273), had been closely attached to George Rawlings(P47238) [see note 12—13/ 4–9, p. 113]
April 14th Tuesday 183529/ 9 Sheppard
Alex H. Sheppard(P33411) (b. 1812), from Hanover County, Virginia(PL4934), lived in Richmond(PL5273) during his later life.
29/ 15 Miss Walker(P47248)
A Charlottesville belle, daughter of J. B. Walker(P44151), Charlottesville merchant.
29 20–21 This evening . . . shorts
The "ball in 1835 was also celebrated with extraordinary distinction; on this occasion the Faculty was scandalized by the arrival of many of the young men in knee breeches and velvet coats, ordered specially for the occasion; and these fine clothes, by comparison, made the gray uniform worn by the others appear drab and shabby." [Bruce, II: 328] The adjective "rebellious" referring to coats is appropriate because any one wearing civilian coats was in violation of the University ordinance decreeing that all students must wear uniforms.
[122]
April Wednesday 15th 183530/ 5 raft
Colloquial for "a large and, often, motley collection of people or things." [Webster's]
30/ 9 Garland
There were two students named Garland at the University in 1834–35. Hudson S. Garland(P39496) (1814–1845) was a second year law student from Lovingston, Virginia(PL5160), who in later life became an atterny in Clarksville, Tennessee(PL5748). Pembroke Garland(P27356) (1816–1837), another second year law student, became an author and died in Jackson, Mississippi(PL6497).
30/ 17–20 Gilmer's . . . James Gordon
Gilmer was possibly Thomas W. Gilmer(P47193), a member of the Virginia General Assembly(CB0912) and later Governor of Virginia and Secretary of the Navy. Charles Minor(P44876) and Lucy W. Minor(P44877) were married on May 19, 1835. [William L. Horford, ed., Albemarle County Marriages (Charlottesville, 1956)] Peter K. Skinker(P41455) (1816–1872) received his Bachelor of Law degree from the University of Virginia in 1837 and practiced law in Fauquier County, Virginia(PL4532). In Fielding Marshall's(P31864) Recollections and Reflections, Marshall comments that Skinker "died while quite a young man"—a recollection on Marshall's part probably in error. [Maria Newton Marshall, editor (Orange, Va., privately printed. 1911)] James(P34060) and Hannah Gordon(P47191) were possibly the children of Gen. William F. Gordon(P47637), a distinguished Charlottesville resident who had been instrumental in the founding of the University of Virginia. According to Walter Blatterman(44221), adopted son of Professor Blaetterman(P45632) ("Personal Reminiscences," Manuscript Division, UVa), Cornelia Lindsay(P47818) eventually married a man much older than herself and died in Havana, Cuba. She was the daughter of Captain James Lindsay, of possibly the daughter of Reuben Lindsay a prominent Charlottesville citizen. Charles Minor (1810–1861) had received his M. a. from Virginia in 1833. He became a physician in Albemarle County(PL5392) and Principal of Brookhill School(CB0224).
April 16th Thursday 183531/ 1 the old Doctor
Dr. Smith(P43949). [see note 11/ 1, p. 111]
31/ 10 Blow
George Blow(P42624) (b. 1813) of Littleton, Sussex County, Virginia,(PL4568) later became a lawyer and circuit court judge in Norfolk(PL4200).
April Saturday 18th 183532/ 5–6 Miss M. E. C.. . . Archy Robertson
"Miss, E. C." is, of course, Mary Ella Chapman(P47602). Archibald T. E. Robertson(P23061) (1811–1841) was born in Richmond(PL5273) and became a physician and planter in New Orleans(PL4173).
32/ 7–9 Keller's . . . Visitors
see note 14/ 4, p. 113.
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32/ 9–10 a letter from Mont
Montagu(P47000) was a friend of Charles Ellis.
32/ 17–18 Cook . . . Shands
Armistead T. M. Cooke(P40184) (1817–1867) studied medicine at the University and became a physician in Norfolk(PL4200). Elverton A. Shands(P21960) (1816–1861) from Petersburg, Virginia,(PL4251) attained the rank of Captain in the confederate army(CB0983) and was killed while fighting in the Shenandoah Valley(PL9274).
April Sunday 19th 183533/ 9–10 the pittance . . . Professors
According to Bruce [II: 375] Cobbs'(P47598) salary was fixed at six hundred dollars, such a low sum that Cobbs wrote: "This sum would not cover my expenses; but by extending my labors of an evening to the church in Charlottesville, I may be enabled, with rigid economy, to avoid the painful evils of debt."
33/ 11–15 the agent . . . 20,000 dollars
[EVENT: University Administration:Religion ] When the University was first founded, Jefferson(P46311) expressly reserved a room in the Rotunda(PL8759) for worship services. By 1835, however, the room was too small to comfortably accomodate all those who attended services, and a faculty committee was established to collect funds for building a church within the University grounds. The site chosen was the land that lay opposite the Rotunda south of the Lawn(PL8427), and the building was planned to seat 800 persons. The cost, as Ellis accurately reports, was estimated at $20,000. Unfortunately, the money was never raised. In 1840 the project was started afresh and General Cocke and Rev. Cobbs saw no difficulty in raising the funds, but they could not gain approval from the Board of Visitors(CB0042). Finally, a compromise was reached, and in 1841 the newly reconstructed eastern gymnasium was used on Sundays for church services. [Bruce, II: 377–78]
33/ 18 George
George Rawlings
Monday April 20th 183534/ 5 Barton's cousin . . . a Cream
Mr. Taylor was a cousin of Barton Morris(P22431) of Caroline County, Virginia,(PL4522) [see note 26/ 43–44, p. 120] A "Cream" is a glass of ice cream.
34/ 6 the Mirror . . . James
The New York Mirror(CB0868). [see note 17/ 3, p. 114] James Carter(P42627) was a cadet at West Point(CB0187). [see note 18/ 8. p. 115]
Tuesday April 21st 183535/ 11 the Militia officers
Officers of the Jefferson Guard(CB0940). [see note 28/8, p. 12l]
35/ 20 "rei necessitate"
"From necessity" (Latin).
[124]
Wednesday April 22nd 183536/ 9–10 rusticating at Cocke's
Cocke's Tavern(PL8586) was one of several inns where suspended students were "rusticated." located near Greenwood(PL4927), on the stage road from Charlottesville to Staunton(PL4177), it was managed by Col. Cocke(P47819), a respected citizen who "occupied for a time a seat on the bench of magistrates; and survived to a period as late as 1879." [Bruce, II: 315–16] Cocke's had a reputation for superior cuisine.
36/ 11 S. L. Messenger . . . Edgar Poe
The Southern Literary Messenger(CB0279) was a literary magazine published in Richmond(PL5273). Poe(P42269) (1809–1849) was a student at the University of Virginia from 1826 to 1827 and excelled in modern languages. He was recalled by his step-father, Mr. Allan, after one year of study because of gambling debts he had contracted in Charlottesville. Poe also served as editor of The Southern Literary Messenger from 1833–1837. The tale referred to here was "Berenice," the story of a man who becomes paranoid about the teeth, of his beloved. A reviewer for The Richmond Enquirer(CB0275) (May 1, 1835) also allowed the teeth to distract him from Poe's purpose: "'Berenice' — a tale, by Edgar A. Poe, exhibits what modern critics call "great power.' It delineates with thrilling accuracy, a species of monomania of a striking and original character . . . But we think the dignity of the narrative suffers by the importance given to the hero's fancy in regard to his mistress's teeth . . ."
Thursday April 23rd 183536/3 the Bridal party
A Mr. McFarland(P47604) and his bridal party, referred to on p. 37. McFarland was probably not from Charlottesville, since the return mentioned is to Richmond(P5273), and since there is no mention of a McFarland marrying in Albemarle County(PL5392) at that time, [see Norford]
36/ 9 a Paul Pry
"The here of a comedy of this title by John Poole (1786?–1872). Paul Pry is 'one of those idle, meddling fellows, who, having no employment themselves, are perpetually interfering in other people's affairs.' Hence, a meddlesome person." [Webster's]
37/ 29 Ruffin
Francis G. Ruffin(P32687) (1816–1892) from Old Church, Hanover County, Virginia(P5263), served as a confederate Major during the Civil War and was a planter and editor in Richmond(P5273) after the war.
Friday April 24th 183537/ 5–6 Anne Triplett
The Tripletts of Charlottesville are an old and distinguished family.
[125]
37/9 Dr. Pat's
Dr. Patterson(P43634).
38/ 10 Mrs. McFarland(P47605)
Mother of the Mr. McFarland(P47604) of "the bridal tarty," and, as Ellis points out, the sister of Mrs. Gray's(P43865) son-in-law.
38/ 12 Crain
Lawrence P. Crain(P35514) (1818–1859), from Cotile, Rapides Parish, Louisiana(PL6639), became a lawyer in New Orleans(PL5172).
38/ 24 "inter faeminas" or "in medias res"
38/ 29 Miss Martha Winn(P47606)
A Charlottesville belle.
38/ 37 Miss Garret
Probably the daughter of Alexander Garrett(P43628), Bursar of the University of Virginia and Charlottesville merchant.
Saturday April 25th 183539/ 3–4 Stone's open barouche
Robert R. Stone(P39236), a first year student at the University, became a bank president in Louisville, Kentucky(PL4212). A barouche is "a four-wheeled carriage with a driver's seat in front, two double seats inside, one facing back and the other front, and a folding top over the back seat." [Webster's]
39/ 4 comatible
Possibly an archaic form of the word "comatose." see my suggestion
39/ 18 Lewis Ludlam and Bob Patterson
Lewis Ludlam(P31905) and his brother, Alex(P38508), were students from Richmond(PL5273). Robert Patterson(P39573), Leiper Patterson's(32066) brother and son of Dr. Patterson(P43634), was born in 1819, received his Bachelor of Law degree from Virginia, and settled in Philadelphia(PL4362). His mother commented that, although he had the necessary intelligence to enter the University at the same time that his older brother did, Robert was kept at home an additional year because of his diminutive size—his fellow students, she claims, would have "laughed at him." [Leiper family correspondence, Manuscript Division, UVa]
40/ 27 Sal
Sarah Conway(P47597).
40/ 47 the mansion . . . estate
Many travellers at the time commented upon the neglect of Monticello. For an example, see William M. E. Rachel, ed., "Richard Harlan's 'Tour to the Caves in Virginia' in 1831, Including Observations About Charlottesville and Albemarle County(PL5392)," Magazine of Albemarle history, VII (1946–47): p. 40.
[126]
41/ 66 a Jew Capt Levy?
Anti-semitism, obviously, was not unknown amongst Virginia gentlemen in 1835.
41/ 77 Mr. Pierce Lewis of Georgia
Pearce L. Lewis(P29769) (b. 1816) was a first year law student from Columbus, Georgia(PL4593).
Sunday April 26th 183542/ 12 Brown's
Alexander J. Brown(P36952) (b. 1815) of Tallahassee, Florida(PL4285).
Monday April 27th 183543/ 4 wertenbakers'
William Wertenbaker(P43161) managed the Charlottesville branch of the Street and Sanxey Book Firm(CB0944). As a young man he had served in General Cocke's brigade during the War of 1812 and afterwards was a protege of Alexander Garrett(P43628). He briefly served as deputy sheriff of Albemarle County(PL5392) and enrolled in law classes when the University was first opened in 1825. In 1826 Wertenbaker was chosen as both Secretary of the Faculty and University Librarian. He briefly resigned as librarian in the early 1830's but was recalled in July, 1835, when W. H. Brockenbrough(P25772) proved totally incompetent as librarian. Wertenbaker was extremely competent, yet he was heartily disliked by the students because or the zeal with which he enforced discipline. An example appears in The Minutes of the Faculty, July 16, 1831 (as cited by Bruce. II: 199ff): "'You are too fond of reporting,' exclaimed a student with an oath, to Wertenbaker in 1831. 'I shall do the same thing to-morrow that I have done to-day, and if you report me for that, I shall flog you. I suppose you will report me for what I am now saying. If you do, I will flog you.'"
43/ 16 Aby
Nickname of Albert Pleasants(P26988).
43/ 20 Thorton
Jesse Quinn Thornton(P41232) (b. 1810) was a second year law student from Augusta County, Virginia(PL4289).
Tuesday April 28th 183544/ 8 Bankhead
Thomas M. R. Bankhead (P31517)(b. 1817) was a first year student from Caroline County, Virginia.(PL4522)
44/ 12 Miss Betsy Franklin(P47228)
A "youthful maid of 40" years.
[127]
44/ 19–20 the defeat . . . turned out
Joseph C. Cabell(P43614) (1778–1856), a member of the distinguished Cabell family of Virginia, received his Bachelor of Arts degree from William & Mary(CB0008) in 1801 and spent the next four years studying in Europe(PL8625). Returning from Europe, he was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates(CB0367), where he served for the next thirty years. He was instrumental in helping Jefferson(P43611) found the University of Virginia. As Dr. Herbert B. Adams points out, "Without the aid of Cabell, it is perfectly clear that Jefferson would have been helpless, and back of Cabell were the Virginia Legislature and the common people." [Thomas Jefferson and theUniversity of Virginia (U. S. Bureau of Education, 1888)] Reluctant to leave his home, Cabell declined many important government posts which would have taken him from Virginia. He served as the Rector of the University of Virginia from 1834–1836 and from 1845–1846. He also was one of the original incorporators of the James River and Kanawha Canal Company(CB0752) (founded in 1832) and served as its President until 1846. In the election referred to by Ellis, Cabell was defeated by a Mr. Brown. [Richmond Enquirer, Tuesday, May 5, 1835] See: Bruce; Patton; Barringer.
45/ 31 Hamer
Charles F. Hamer(P35685) (b. 1815) was a second year student at the University. He served as a confederate officer during the Civil War and died in his hometown, Cayuga, Claiborne County, Mississippi(PL7568).
Wednesday April 29th 183545/ 8 the Whig
The Richmond Whig(CB0572) was a newspaper published between the years 1824 and 1888.
46/ 13 Skelton
John G. Skelton(P41122) (b. 1815), from Genito, Powhatan County, Virginia(PL4528), received his M. D. from Virginia and became a physician in Richmond(PL5273).
Thursday April 30th 183546/ 12–13 Uncle Powhatan
Powhatan Ellis(P46205) (1794–1863) graduated from William & Mary(CB0008) in 1813, became a lawyer and quickly rose to the Supreme Court of Virginia(CB0945) (1818–1825). In 1825 he served as a U.S. Senator,(CB0298) a position he also held from 1827–1832. In 1836 he was appointed Charge d'Affaires in the American Consulate in Mexico(CB0993) and three years later he was promoted to Minister of the Consulate. During the 1850's he travelled to England(PL6183) on diplomatic missions. [Lyon Tyler, ed., Encyclopedia of Virginia Biography (New York, 1915), Vol. II, p. 268]
46/ 15–16 peach [?] . . . eel skin
[?] Peach brandy. Eel skin peaches were used to carry cigars in.
[128]
47/ 21 P. Lewis
Pearce Lewis(P29769). [see note 41/ 77, p. 126]
Friday May 1st 183547/ 4 a doze of Salts
A dose of Epsom salts. The pun (dose/doze) may be intentional, in that the laxative effect aided Pleasants(P35017) in sleeping later that morning.
47/ 6 Ricard's Plutarch
Dominique Ricard's (1741–1803) translation, Plutarchus.
47/ 7 Montgomery, Dr. Watson's nephew
The Dr. Watson referred to here, may have been Dr. James A. Watson(P47609) (1802–1837), one of the few physicians in Charlottesville. Concerning Mr. Montgomery(P47610), I know nothing except that he was Dr. Watson's nephew. It is possible that he was Joseph F. Montgomery(P43493) from Nelson County(PL5388), an 1833 graduate of Virginia who received his M. D. from the University of Pennsylvania(CB0057) and later distinguished himself in California, becoming an author, State medical examiner, Vice-President of the Medical Society of California, and President of the Sacramento School Board.
Saturday May 2nd 183548/ 7 Major Downing's Letters
Humorous letters of a "Major Jack Downing" were published in The Portland Courier between 1830 and 1833. This fictional character was created by Sebra Smith (1792–1868) and the letters were later collected in book form. Charles A. Davis (1795–1867), capitalizing on Smith's success, adopted the pseudonym "Maj. J. Downing" and wrote additional humorous letters, which were published in the New York Daily Advertiser between 1833 and l834. These also were later issued in book form, and often the letters of Smith and Davis were combined within the covers of one book.
Monday May 4th 183549/ 2 the old Janitor
"The old Janitor" was, of course, Dr. Smith(P43949).
49/ 12 Gil blas
The famous picaresque novel by Le Sage, first published in 1735.
50/ 18 Richard Harrison's
Richard J. Harrison(P37425) (1818–1873) was a physician in Sussex County, Virginia(PL4568).
[129]
Tuesday May 5th 183550/ 9–11 Clarke . . . Them off"
Robert D. Clarke(P30030) (b. 1814) was a first year student from Manchester, Virginia(PL4669). As we have seen (see note 3/1, p. 105), University ordinances required all students to rise when the bell was rung at dawn. Naturally, this rule was widely—almost nonchalantly—violated. Frequent violators, however, were subject to discipline. Despite its manifest stupidity, the faculty(CB0105) were reluctant to rescind the order. In 1833 the Chairman of the Facult(P43623)y commented: "With all its imperfect execution, and with the utter impracticability of a rigid enforcement but by means and with consequences disproportionate to its benefits, I am still of the opinion that the law is a salutary one. It makes almost all, even the most indolent, rise earlier than they otherwise would do and the consciousness of having offended in this particular is a check sometimes on other violations." [Bruce, II: 214–15]
Wednesday May 6th 183551/ 14–l5 Mary Page
The Mary Page(P47611) referred to here was, in all probability, the daughter of Dr. Mann Page(P26523) and Jane Francis Page(P46760) of Albemarle County(PL5392). Dr. Page was a prominent citizen of the County.
Thursday May 7th 183552/ 5–6 the fair Maid of Orange
I am not really certain as to exactly what Ellis meant by this phrase. Considering that he had been reading Scott, it could be a reference to The Fair Maid of Perth, substituting "Orange" for "Perth"—possibly because Elizabeth Conway's(P47197) companion (whoever she was) was from Orange County(PL4264). As far as I know, there is no reference in Scott to a "fair Maid of Orange."
52/ 13 3 or 4 hundred pounds
Ellis, I am fairly certain, is the only person ever to have described Professor Blaetterman's(P45632) physical stature, and as such, this reference is important historically and could help to partially explain the professor's reputation for eccentricity.
Friday May 8th 183553/ 15–17 Gate's army . . . Stonington
Horatio Gates (1728?–1806) was a famous American Revolutionary general. Born in Maldon, England, he had served with Braddock's army in Virginia (1755–1761) and, at the invitation of George Washington(P44390), settled in Virginia in 1775. As the commander of Fort Ticonderoga in 1776–1777, he received credit for successfully repelling a British, force commanded by Burgoyne. However, in 1780 he lost the battle of Camden(PL4194) (South Carolina) and was relieved of his command. For the remainder of the war he served on Washington's staff. John Burgoyne (1722–1792), a
[130]
British general and dramatist, commanded the British expedition against the Colonies into Canada and was forced to surrender at Saratoga in 1777. His two most famous plays were The Maid of Oaks (1775) and The Heiress (1786). Sir Peter Parker (1721–1811) was the British Naval Squadron commander who unsuccessfully attacked Fort Moultrie (Charleston(PL4447), S. C.) in 1776 and later aided Admiral Howe capture New York(PL4217). In 1799 he became Admiral of the British Fleet, but he is principally remembered as the patron of Nelson. Stonington is a town in Connecticut(PL5283), southeast of New London on Long Island Sound, which was attached by the British both in 1775 and in 1812.53/ 24 of electing undiciplined Officers
Unlike the universal system of command and promotion prevalent today, officers in most regiments prior to the Civil War were elected to command by majority vote for a specified length of time. This was especially true of militia units.
54/ 41 the system of standing fortifications
The policy of the Jackson(P47080) administration was to build permanent and costly military defensive installations along the Atlantic seaboard.
Saturday May 9th 183556/ 10–11 Charles Carter(P47612)
Another one of Ellis's Richmond(PL5273) friends and possibly James Carter's(P47627) brother.
56/ 16 Sectarians
Prior to the Civil War, most colleges and universities in this country were privately owned or controlled by religious denominations. Indeed, Andrew White, Cornell's first president, once referred to this period as "the regime of petty sectarian colleges." [Frederick Rudolph, The American College and University (New York, 1962), p. 68]
57/ 29–31 on condition . . . Public Land
Captain Partridge's(P43952) proposal here was certainly prophetic, as the Morrill Federal Land Grant Act of 1862 proved. Of Course, Partridge could hardly foresee that by 1862 the emphasis in educational objectives would be toward agricultural and utilitarian ideals and away from citizenship and military science.
Sunday 10th May 183558/ 9–10 another Duel . . . Wigfall
An account of this duel is provided by Bruce (II: 296–97).
58/ 23 Old Penny
Col. W. G. Pendleton(P43653), known as "Old Penny" to the students, was Proctor of the University of Virginia.
58/ 26 Sampson's
Francis S. Sampson(P35802) (1814–1854) from Goochland County, Virginia,(PL4579) received his M. A. degree from Virginia in 1835, became a Presbyterian minister, and eventually was hired by Union Theological Seminary(CB0962) as a professor. see note 1/ 8, pp. 103–104.
[131]
58/ 29 Cheves
John R. Cheves(P25423) of South Carolina(PL4249), a first year student.
58/ 32 persuaded to return
"After [Bonnycastle(P43623) and Davis(P33195)] had gone five miles from town, they overtook Wigfall(P32016) and Cheves, his second, who promptly disputed the validity of the papers for their arrest thrust into their hands; but when threatened with an uprising of the county, Wigfall reluctantly consented to return, on condition that the Faculty would defer the question of the penalty to the county court. He and Cheves asked permission to withdraw at once from the University, but this was re- fused." [Bruce, II: 297]
Monday May 11th 183559–60/ 9–25 Mr. Noah . . . Wills . . . Fay . . . Morris
Mordecai Manuel Noah (1785–1851), a journalist, playwright, politician, and diplomat, was a "bon vivant", quite well known in New York(PL4217) social circles. He edited several New York newspapers, including The Enquirer. Nathaniel Parker Willis (1806–1867), a poet and journalist, tri-edited The Mirror(CB0868) and was its foreign correspondant from 1831–1837. Like Noah, he was a popular society figure and appears to have been quite appealing to the ladies. The best estimate of him as a literary artist is to be found in Lowell's Fable for Critics. Theodore S. Fay 1807–1898), author and diplomat, published a popular novel, Norman Leslie, in 1835, as well as tri-editing The Mirror. He served as Secretary of the American Legation to Berlin from 1835 to 1853 and as Minister-Resident of the Berne embassy from 1853 to 1861. At the beginning of the Civil War, Fay retired from public life to write in Berlin. George P. Morris (1802– 1864), poet and journalist, was the guiding light behind The New York Mirror, helping to found it in 1823 and editing it until his death in 1864. Morris is also quite well known for some of the popular lyric songs he wrote. See note 17/ 3, p. 114, for an account of The Mirror.
60/ 26 Terence's Andria
Andria [The Maiden of Andros], a comedy first produced in 166 B. C., was written by the famous Roman playwright, Terence.
60/ 28 Wysor
Benjamin F. Wysor(P31250), a student from Newbern, Montgomery County, Virginia,(PL4681) distinguished himself as a lawyer and Commonwealth Attorney in Virginia. He was killed by Union troops at his home on May 14, 1863.
60/ 31 T. M.. . . . Miss L.C..
[?] T. M. are the initial for Tom More(P47615), a Charlottesville resident, and Miss L. C. is Lucy Carter(P47185).
Tuesday May 12th 183560/ 9 Oldham
No Oldham is listed as attending the University in 1835, and in the 1830 census there is only one Oldham, James, a white male between fifty and sixty years of age.
[132]
61/ 29 Huger
Thomas Pinkney Huger(P33926) (b. 1818) was a second year student from Pendleton, South Carolina(PL5641), who later became a planter in Charleston(PL4447).
62/ 53 the Wildfire
This definition of "wildfire" does not appear in Webster's.
Thursday May 14th 183563/ 7 Miss Emeline Gardner
Probably Emeline(P47617) was the daughter of Charles K. Gardner (1787–1869), a citizen of Albemarle County(PL5392).
Saturday May 16th 183565/ 5 Tumpt [?]
65/ 9 Miss Hunton
I am the older lady.
65/ 14 the Convention
An Episcopal congregation was held in Lynchburg, Virginia(PL4371), on May 20, 1835.
65/ 17 Frayser
Mr. Frazier(P25975) was a friend of Charles's older brother, Thomas(P43568). He may have been William Frazier (b. 1812), from Serving's Gap in Augusta County Augusta County, Virginia, a student Virginia from 1830 to 1834. William Frazier became a former and lawyer in Staunton, Virginia(PL4177), a serving in both the Virginia legislature and senate(CB0241)(CB0182).
Sunday May 17th 183566/ 3–4 Surtout . . . un habiliment
A surtout is an overcoat; un habiliment is French for "a piece of clothing."
67/ 11 Mr. Jones
"An eminent Episcopalian."
Monday May 18th 183568/ 14 Miss Elizabeth undashed
Miss Elizabeth undashed may have been Betty Conway(P47197). Miss Elizabeth one dash was Elizabeth Leiper(P47618) (b. 1817?), whose father (James Leiper) had died while she was quite young and whose mother had remarried, so that she stayed at the Minor's under the watchful eye of her aunt, Ann Leiper(P47639), Mrs. Patterson's(P47633) sister. [see note 24] 8, p. 119/
[133]
Tuesday May 19th 183569/ 8 Cousin George Harding
I could find no mention of anyone with the first name of "George" and a middle or surname of "Harding" when consulting A Memorandum of the Ellis Family.
Wednesday May 20th 183570/ 22 Warner's
Augustus L. Warner(P43656) of Baltimore(PL4215) was Professor of Anatomy and Surgery at the University of Virginia from 1834 to 1837.
Thursday May 21st 183571/ 15 a bog trotter
"One who lives in or roves over bogs, esp. as a refuge;—formerly applied in derision to the wild Irish." [Webster's]
71/20 "rara avis"
Latin for "rare bird."
Friday 22nd May 183572/ 5-6 The Prairie, Cooper's novel
The Prairie by James Fenimore Cooper was first published in 1827 and is the last in a sequence of novels chronicling the life of Natty Bumppo.
Saturday May 23rd 183573/ 3 Harris
William W. Harris(P31429) (b. 1816) was a student from Mount Horeb in Nelson County, Virginia(PL5388). After leaving the University, he became a farmer at Rockfish Depot in Nelson County.
73/ 23 Toddy
An alcohol punch served piping hot.
73/ 27 "devoirs".
French for "respects."
Sunday May 24th 183574/ 1-2 Irving's Sketch Book
Washington Irving's The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent. was first published in book form in 1820.
[134]
74/ 4 Mr. Wadsworth
Mr. Possibly Rev. Wadsworth(P47620) was the Episcopal priest for the town of Charlottesville.
74/ 13 "pro tem"
Abbreviation of the Latin term, pro tempore, which means "temporarily."
74/ 14 "Pour oue moi"
French for "as for myself."
74/ 17–18 Kit Harris . . . Field and Goss(PL9327)
Christopher H. Harris(P24470) (b. 1816), a student from Goochland County, Virginia(PL4386), received his M. D. from the University of Pennsylvania(CB0057) in Philadelphia(PL4362) and became a physician in Gravel Hill, Buckingham County, Virginia(PL4762). Field and Goss was a tavern in Charlottesville.
74/ 20 Miss Sampson(P47621)
A Charlottesville belle.
74/ 23 "sub fervida sole"
"Under a boiling sun." [Latin]
Monday May 25th 183575/ 4 the James and Kanawha Company
The James River and Kanawha Canal Company(CB0752) was first chartered on March 16, 1832, and was an important business venture in Virginia at the time. Joseph Cabell(P43614) served as President until March 1846. [see note 44/ 19-20, p. 1227 For a further account, consult Wayland F. Dunaway's History of the James River and Kanawha Company, Columbia University Studies in History, Economics and Public Law, CIV, no. 2 (New York, 1922).
75/ 5 Key . . . England
Thomas H. Key(P43622) (1799-1875) was one of the five professors recruited in England(PL6183) by Gilmer(P31348) for the opening of the University of Virginia. Key, however, was quite dissatisfied with conditions at the University —especially those concerning student disorder—and he returned to England in 1827. He was succeeded as Professor of Mathematics by Charles Bonnycastle(P43623). [See Bruce] Given the bias held by the Board of Visitors(CB0042) toward foreigners and Key's precipitate departure to England before his contract had expired, it is highly unlikely that the Visitors would have seriously considered replacing Dr. Patterson(P43634) with Key in 1835, nor is it likely that Key would have wanted to return to Virginia.
75/ 13 Myers, the confectioners
Along with Keller's(PL8528), Weidemeyer's(PL8975), Garner's(PL8566), Toole's,(PL9000) Brown's(PL9001), and Miller's(PL6636), Myers' was one of the principal confectionaries in Charlottesville. Although selling sweetmeats and ice-cream, most of these confectionaries depended for their real business upon the sale of liquor in backrooms. [see Bruce, II: 285]
[135]
76/ 31-32 the Bear . . . Cornick
"The Bear" was a student nickname for Professor Gessner Harrison(P25515). Tully R. Cornick(P21769). (b. 1817), from Princess Anne County, Virginia,(PL6081) received his Bachelor of Law degree in 1837, practiced law in Alabama until 1844, farmed in Missouri until 1865, and then became an attorny in Knoxville, Tennessee(PL7571). In 1850 he was a member of the Missouri Legislature(CB0463).
Tuesday May 26th 183576/ 12 Watkins
Clement C. Watkins(P27752) (1818-1850), after leaving Virginia, studied at the University of Pennsylvania(CB0057), received his M. D., and became a physician in his hometown of Massingford, Virginia (located in Charlotte County)(PL4711).
Wednesday May 27th 183577/ 17 John Harris and Sam
John Woods Harris(P43508) (b. 1810) was a third year student from Nelson County, Virginia(PL5388). He received his Bachelor of Law degree from the University in 1836 and later become a distinguished lawyer, serving as the Attorny General of the State of Texas and as a judge in Galveston(PL4292). "Sam" was Samuel Wilson(P35193), [see note 11/ 6, p. 112]
78/ 27-28 Buck's . . . Barksdale's
"Buck" must have been the nickname for one of the students, since there is no record of anyone by that name being registered at the University in 1835. William Barksdale(P28117) (1816-1839) was a first-year student from Elk Hill, Amelia County, Virginia(PL4739).
Thursday May 28th 183573/ 6 Duke
Alexander Duke(P27140) (b. 1809), from Hanover County, Virginia(PL4934), received his M. D. from Virginia and became a physician and teacher in Charleston, South Carolina(PL4447).
78/ 15 the Translation of Murphy
Arthur Murphy (1727-1805) was the translator of the three-volume The Historical Annals of Cornelius Tacitus. The first American edition was published in Philadelphia(PL4362) in 1829.
Friday May 29th 183579/ 15 Josh Jones
A Charlottesville resident, Josiah Jones was around forty years of age.
[136]
79/ 17 Robinson's Journal
Henry Crabb Robinson (1775-1867) was a well-known English journalist and diarist. A friend of Lamb, Coleridge, Southey, and Wordsworth, he maintained a diary (37 vols.), journals (30 vols.), and wrote his reminiscences (36 vols.).
79/ 20 Snip
"Snip" was the nickname of one of the students at the University.
79/ 25 Browning's
John F. Browning(P25473) (b. 1313) was a student from Benton, Alabama(PL9253).
Saturday May 30th 183580/ 14-19 Mrs. Perkins . . . Mrs. Richardson
According to the Perkins family genealogy (Manuscript Division, UVa), in 1816 George Perkins (1776-1835) married Eliza Sydnor Richardson(P47622) (1797-1862). Obviously, Mrs. Perkins must have been a friend of the Ellis family.
80/ 20-21 a couple of Temperance papers
A temperance society had been formed at the University in June 1830. By April 1832 seventy members were enrolled, and the Society was enthusiastically promoted by General Cocke, a fervid prohibitionist. By 1835, however, the Society was faring badly and Professor Davis(P33195) reported that "young men accustomed to indulge in the use of ardent spirits at home, and to see them used in their families, as most of our students unfortunately are, can hardly be expected to entertain proper views on the subject." [Bruce, II: 290] This and other discouraging reports did not seem to deter the General, who claimed: "I shall never cease, while my connection with this University lasts, to urge upon the Faculty, and all connected with it, the vast importance of bringing the temperance reform to operate on the students." [Ibid]
80/ 22 Morris
Barton Morris(P22431). [see note 26/ 43-44, p. 120]
Sunday May 31st 183581/ 6 Mr. Broaddus of Culpepper
John A. Broaddus(P43719), a Baptist minister, was the University chaplain from 1855 to 1857, but whether the was the "Mr. Broaddus" referred to by Ellis is uncertain. Rev. Cobbs(P47598) was succeeded by the Rev. Robert Ryland(P47056), a Baptist.
81/ 21 Tomlin . . . Calloway
Harrison B. Tomlin(P43725) (b. 1815), after attending the University, returned to his hometown, Old Church in Hanover County, Virginia(PL4934), to farm. He served as member of the Virginia Legislature(CB0182) and distinguished
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himself during the Civil War, rising to the rank of Colonel (C. S. A.). From 1853 to 1856 he also served on the Board of Visitors(CB0042) of the University of Virginia. Paul Carrington Calloway(P30645) (b. 1815) received his M. D. from the University and returned to his hometown, in Norwood in Nelson County, Virginia(PL6806), to practice medicine and farm.81/ 27 Dr. Massie
Dr. Massie(P47623) may have been Juliet Massie's(P47586) father, but more likely he was an Albemarle County(PL5392) resident (a Dr. Massie is reported to have lived in the county during this time). [see note 12-13/4-9, p. 113]
June 1st 1835 Monday82/ 15 yclepted
An archaic word meaning "named."
June 3rd Wednesday 183583/ 1 Martin's
Hudson Martin(P22146) (b. 1817), from Glasgow, Barren County, Kentucky,(PL7555) graduated from the University of Virginia in 1836 with a M. D.
84/ 7 Mr. Thompson
Montagu's(P47000) guardian.
84/ 8 Bil Robertson
William J.Robertson(P39501) (b. 1817), a native of Charlottesville, received his Bachelor of Law degree from Virginia in 1841 and distinguished himself in his profession, becoming a judge on the Supreme Court of Virginia(CB0945). From 1853 to 1859 he was a member of the Board of Visitors(CB0042) of the University of Virginia. I do not know why Robertson was nicknamed "Polk."
84/ 13 Blaky's(CB0946)
A Charlottesville tavern.
Thursday June 4th 183584/ 8 Harrison of N. Carolina
Carter B. Harrison(P31221) (b. 1814), a student from Franklin County, North Carolina(PL8177). After his stay in Virginia he returned to his home state and farmed near the city of Louisburg(PL8129).
Saturday June 6th 183580/ 3 Brown of Florida
Alexander J. Brown(P36952). [See note 42/ 12, p. 126]
86/ 8 Bill
William M. Harrison(P25843). [see note 5/ 5, p . 107]
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Sunday June 7th 183586/ 3 Merrywether and Moore
James Hunter Meriwether(P24991) (b. 1814), from Todd County, Kentucky,(PL4268) was awarded an M. D. by the University end became a physician and farmer in Guthrie City, Kentucky(PL7928). Edward William Moore(P38129) (b. 1815), from Opelousas, Louisiana(PL5308), spent four or five years at the University and then transferred to the University of Pennsylvania(CB0057), where he was awarded an M. D. He practiced medicine in Washington, St. Landry Parish, Louisiana(PL4979).
Monday 8th 183587/ 10-11 Whitsuntide
Whitsunday is the seventh Sunday and fiftieth day after Easter and is celebrated as a feast commemorating the descent of the Holy Ghost on Pentecost. Whitsuntide is the week beginning with Whitsunday.
Tuesday June 9th 183587/ 3-7 Sinton . . . Mudburn
Boyhood friends of Charles Ellis.
87/ 18 Theodore Kennedy
A cadet at West Point(CB0187).
Wednesday 10th June 183588/ 5 Tutwiler
Henry Tutwiler(P23853) (1807-1884), a native of Harrisonburg, Virginia(PL4351), was the first person to receive a Master of Arts degree from the University of Virginia (he also received a Bachelor of Law degree). He was also the first Professor of Ancient Languages at the University of Alabama(CB0013). Known as one of the most promising men of his generation, he left the University of Alabama and founded Green Spring School, which quickly became famous as the "Rugby" of Alabama. His daughter, Julia, became a famous educator in her own right.
89/ 36 the new Miss Tutt(P47814)
The sister of Mrs. Ann Mason Tutt Bonnycastle(P47082) of Loudoun County, Virginia(PL4696).
Thursday June 11th 183589/ 5-6 "qui vive"
This French phrase literally translates as, "who lives."
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90/ 17-18 Albert . . . coffee
A servant was hired by the hotel-keeper to perform menial tasks in the dormitories. Besides providing coffee for students, servants were expected to light fires, clean shoes, sweep the floors, make the beds, and run errands into Charlottesville. For a particular account of the servant's duty in 1835, see Bruce, II: 208. Servants at this time were all Black slaves.
90/ 21 an infernal catgut instrument
A stringed instrument—probably a fiddle.
Sunday 14th 1835 June92/ 5 Govan
James F. Govan(P35461) (b. 1817) was a student from Walkerton, King & Queen County, Virginia(PL5226). After attending Virginia, he settled in New Orleans(PL4173).
92/ 14 Mitchell
J. E. Moore Mitchell(P25283) (b. 1815) was a student from Charleston, S.C.(PL4447)
Monday June 15th 183592/ 6 "in nu biis, in toto"
A Latin expression. Totally vague
93/ 24-25 "Du gratia victorious"
93/ 28-29 killed a cat
A slang expression the exact meaning of which I am unaware.
Wednesday June 17th 183595/ 7-8 Daniel Triplett
Daniel S. Triplett(P22654) (1817-1841) was a student from Richmond(PL5273). He received his M. D. from the University of Pennsylvania(CB0057) and practiced medicine in Virginia, dying in Gloucester County(PL6140).
Sunday June 21st 183597/ 4 Whaley
Thomas Whaley(P47568) (b. 1815) was a student from Edisto Island, S.C.(PL5488)
98/ 7 the exquisite Mr. Buckner
The Buckner family owned land near Culpeper, Virginia(PL4385).
98/ 12 Byron's Cain
Lord Byron's Cain, written in 1831, was criticized, at the time
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for its skepticism in regard to conventional religion. Nevertheless, Byron was very popular with students.